Beer and wine sales begin

By Randy Grider
randy@casscountynow.com

The first beer and wine sales in Atlanta began this past Wednesday when the Star Mart (Exxon) at the intersection of Main Street and South Louise Street began selling beer before noon. The store has since added wine to its inventory.
Mike Budhwani, manager of the store, said sales have been brisk with the store having to restock several times over the past week.
“It’s been very good --sales are booming,” Budhwani said. “I have truck delivering beer almost every day.”
The store, which was the first location in Atlanta to apply for an off-premise beer and wine license, was also first to receive approval from the Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission. Several other stores including Kim’s Convenience Stores and Brookshire’s expect approval any day.
Atlanta citizens voted to legalize off-premise beer and wine sales during this past November’s general election.  The measure passed with 53.63 percent voting in favor and 46.37 voting against -- 1,019 .to 881.