Are taprooms killing the corner bar?

By Brigid Sweeney February 09, 2018 Jason Klein and Brad Shaffer, buddies since their 9-year-old hockey-playing days in the northwest suburbs, started talking about opening a bar in 2009. But after assessing the competitive landscape and the capital required, they nixed the idea. At the time, Klein was a dedicated Miller Lite drinker. Today, his drinking habits…

Should Illinois legalize recreational marijuana?

Editorial Board When it comes to easing restrictions on cannabis, Illinois has not been a pioneer. Medical marijuana was legal in 19 other states and the District of Columbia before state law allowed it here in 2013. Nine states and D.C. have gone beyond, legalizing the sale and use of recreational pot. Lawmakers in Illinois…

Illinois: Bootleggers beware – Liquor commission tamping down on illegal alcohol shipments

Source: https://chicago.suntimes.com/ 02/06/2018 After slapping nearly 1,000 liquor stores, wineries and shipping companies with “cease and desist” letters in December, the Illinois Liquor Control Commission plans to meet Wednesday to discuss the mailings and the steps it needs to take to stop the illegal shipment of alcohol. The commission will also have a revocation hearing…

Raising Illinois’ smoking age could create problems

By Benjamin Yount | Illinois News Network The push to raise Illinois’ smoking age could put lawmakers and parents in a couple of difficult situations. Advocates and lawmakers say it’s simple: Raise Illinois’ smoking age to 21, fewer people will start smoking, and the state will be healthier. But the larger conversation is a bit…