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Published Monday, January 26, 2009 in Local
Photo by Sarah Fay Campbell
Attorney Scott Bergthold, an expert in ordinances regulating adult business, makes a presentation Monday to the Coweta County Commissioners on the various court decisions and studies upholding regulations on sexually-oriented businesses.
Coweta passes tighter obscenity ordinance
The Newnan Times-Herald
The sale of sex toys, and perhaps even the sale of some condoms and lubricants, is now prohibited in Coweta County.
The Coweta County Board of Commissioners unanimously voted to approve a new obscenity ordinance and a new ordinance regulating sexually-oriented businesses at a specially-called meeting Monday afternoon.
The obscenity ordinance prohibits sale or distribution of obscenity, and prohibits anyone from “knowingly” selling, or possessing with the intent to sell, “any device designed or marketed as useful primarily for the stimulation of human genital organs.”
The county’s old ordinance specifically exempted condoms from being considered as a stimulation device. The new ordinance makes no such distinction, and would appear to apply to items such as ribbed condoms and various lubricants marketed as having a “warming” or “tingling” sensation. Such products are commonly available at most drug and grocery stores.
The ordinance would also seem to apply to in-home “toy” parties, which are growing in popularity.
A violation is punishable by up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
The ordinance does state that it is an “affirmative defense” to violations of the ordinance if the “act charged was done for a bona fide medical, scientific, educational, legislative, judicial, or law enforcement purpose.”
Monday’s commission meeting was announced Sunday.
After calling the meeting to order, the commissioners went into a closed session to discuss litigation. After a little more than an hour, the board came back into regular session to hear a presentation from attorney Scott Bergthold of Tennessee, a nationally-known expert in writing ordinances to combat adult businesses.
Attending the meeting was Kelly Rogers, president and CEO of Starship. Rogers has been working for several months to open a Starship store in Coweta near Thomas Crossroads.
During that time, Rogers has repeatedly stated that he fully intended to comply with the county’s ordinance regulating sexually-oriented businesses.
Rogers’ application for a business license was denied last week because the store had not yet been stocked and Rogers could not prove that the store met the ordinance. He said at the time that he would stock the store and then show that he was meeting the ordinance.
Rogers said after Monday’s meeting that he had forwarded the new ordinances on to his attorney.
“The biggest thing is, I’m not leaving. I’m not going away,” he said. “If we have to fight, we will fight. We will try to negotiate first; and if that doesn’t do any good, we’ll fight,” he said.
“I just think it is ridiculous to spend taxpayer dollars to drag this out.”
At the beginning of Monday’s meeting, only the new ordinance regulating sexually-oriented businesses was made available.
That ordinance is similar to the old ordinance in that it sets the threshold to be considered a sexually-oriented business at 25 percent.
However, the new ordinance only applies to pornography, that is, books, magazines, videos, pictures, and the like, depicting sexual acts.
The new ordinance widens the 25 percent threshold to apply to total wholesale and retail value, and limits the sale of such items to no more than 500 square feet in a building. “Aisles and walkways used to access such items” must be included in both the 25 percent and 500 square feet calculations. A business can have no more than 2,000 such items.
The ordinance also defines a sexually-oriented business as one that regularly features pornography and “regularly advertises itself or holds itself out, by using ‘adult,’ ‘adults-only,’ ‘XXX,’ ‘sex,’ ‘erotic,’ or substantially similar language, as an establishment that caters to adult sexual interests.”
Sexually-oriented businesses are allowed in Coweta, but must be in an industrially-zoned area and at least 1,000 feet from schools, parks, churches, day-care centers, and residentially-zoned property.
Based on a quick reading of the sexually-oriented business ordinance, before he saw the obscenity ordinance, Rogers said that he thought he could comply with it. “I might do some adjustments, but I think I will be OK,” he said.
That was before he saw the prohibition on sex toys, which are a major product line.
When asked if the new laws would be enforced against every business in the county or just Starship, Bergthold, Assistant County Attorney Nathan Lee, and County Administrator Theron Gay said they did not want to comment. When pressed, Lee said that the ordinance would, of course, be enforced across the board.
“We’re going to treat everybody” equally, Lee said.
When asked if the ordinances would pass legal muster, Bergthold said “I’m sure the county wouldn’t pass something that wasn’t constitutional.”
Commenting on this story has ended.
I APPLAUD our commissioners for doing what they feel is necessary to keep this trash out of our community. They listened to the hundreds of protestors at the Commissioner meeting. THANK YOU!! We don't want it here.
Posted by Nicole at 4:28 AM
As I have read many of the comments, there has been an underlying theme: those opposed to the obscenity ordinance have a selfish agenda (pleasure, money, greed, self-indulgence, etc.) Those for the ordinance have a selfless agenda (family, morals, pride in their county, etc.) I, for one, am proud of our commissioners for standing up on the selfless side. Homes, families, and worst of all children are being destroyed throughout our world, nation, state, county, and town by pornography. Pornography is at its deepest root a selfish desire. Yes, we are designed to be sexual, but not to hurt others in the process. Promiscuous sex does hurt others eventually. Sex is a beautiful thing but has been so perverted. It saddens me to think that we do have this sexual perversion going on around us, but we do have the intelligence to stop it. Please stop thinking of yourselves and think of the generations that this could affect in the long-run.
Posted by Marie at 4:09 AM
This ordinance is about quality of life, it's about holding the soul of every person in the highest esteem! It's not about taxpayers dollars. This is so much more important than money. Hooray for our County Commissioners, and the attorney from Tennessee!
Posted by Susan Greco at 3:05 AM
Uh, Since Tony Evans and his book weren't there to guide me and my husband 30 years ago during our honeymoon we figured everything out by ourselves like any other couple... married or not. Quoting some guy whose opinion you might share does absolutely nothing to demean my first comment and I stand by it. That is why this topic is so inflammatory, most people want the ability to decide for themselves just how big a "fire" they want to build and not have someone tell them what type of fuel they can burn. We have the ability to question the morals of others only when they adversely affect an innocent party and in this case we are talking about a business that if you have no use for you will not frequent. I probably will not have need for the articles sold there but plenty of folks apparently do or this franchise would have been bankrupt by now and Starship has been around quite a while now. I have read these posts as most of you have because of their entertainment value and this venue has yet to disappoint. Just be glad our commissioners have not decided for us whether this conversation between consenting adults is appropriate. Stranger things have happened. We did stop stoning adulterers and fornicators along time ago and we have civil liberties now to protect them just like this entrepreneur who is only trying to provide a product line that from the looks of this massive amount of commentary there is a demand for.
Posted by Jima Hosmer at 3:00 AM
This whole thing needs to stop.This county has wasted too much time, money and effort on an issue that is not that big of a deal. Coweta Co is becoming the laughing stock and being portrayed as a backwards county. I know someone who say this story in another state and said that the news people were laughing. If we are going to ban certain things, then I agree with others that it has to be across the board. Take on Walmart, Kroger, Barnes and Noble, and lets see who will lose! The pregnancy rate will increase, and we do not need any more babies born to young moms. The churches need to stop. I am a Christian and no where in my upbringing in the Methodist church have I been brought up to be a prude and unaccepting of others. This is not Christian, so all of you need to stop. People are scared and when people are scared they say and do foolish things. I was proud to tell people where I lived and I enjoy all the new stores and opportunities we are getting here..lets not go back in time, lets move forward and stop this tax paying waste. By the way aren't the commissioners an elected position, all those who oppose what they have done, we just won't re-elect them. If we have learned anything in this country, CHANGE IS GOOD!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by Coweta Co Resident at 2:50 AM
I don't know whether you're delusional or just narrow-minded. Do you how available drugs are in this county? Also, everytime I look the local news, I see nothing but shootings, meth busts, etc. Starship won't change any of this. If everyone is worried about the kids, you have to be 18 or older to go in to a Starship store. Isn't that enough? People need to stop infringing on others' sexual happiness.
Posted by jordan at 2:18 AM
it's good to see the commissioners hard at work on all the important issues...
Posted by clay perry at 1:58 AM
For JK ... Of all the comments on this post, yours truly bothered me. Not because you do not support Starships opening, that is your right. But because I feel sorry for you with your narrow minded thoughts regarding potential patrons of an establishment such as Starship. I have a mortgage, a family, friends, a full time job, a part time job and I am a single mom. I also have been a patron of Starship. I am not Poor White Trash. Careful with your words. You may be throwing stones at your neighbor, sister, brother, son, daughter, mother, father, Sunday school teacher, bank teller, grocery clerk, etc...
Posted by non judgmental at 1:56 AM
I know reading isn't a strong subject for many of you but it is Starship Elations, not Enterprise. Hope you are happy NTH, you have made Rogers a victom and given him more free press than he could ever dream of. No one can tell you what you can and can't DO in your HOME people. What they can do is keep this kind of business of drug paraphernalia, porn and yes toys and lotions. Don't care what you do in your home, I just don't want it on THIS corner near MY home.
Posted by wishing you would read carefully at 1:43 AM
"Old National, Tara Blvd and Central Ave.. these are the addresses of other "Starship" stores..Do you want Newnan/Thomas Crossroads to turn into any one of these locations??" First off those parts of town where like that WAAAYYY before StarShip opened there. They are just bad parts of town...if you think about it, it makes it safer for people from peachtree city, carrollton, grantville, senioa, palmetto, moreland, and tyrone to come to newnan then go to any of those other places since newnan is not like those places!
Posted by Scott Crowell at 1:39 AM
Thank you Coweta Commissioners! Keep up the FIGHT!
Posted by Jason at 1:35 AM
This is the dumbest law I've ever heard of. I had to check my callender to make sure it wasn't April 1st when I read this story. Wake up people!!!!!!!! This isn't 1950. It's 2009 and I can't buy a condom that is "ribbed". I guess next time I vote, I'll know to not vote for anyone that has "Incumbant" next to their name.
Posted by Jeremy at 1:35 AM
I had my 3 YEAR OLD nephew with me going to Wal-Mart and the protesters were outside showing HUGE pictures of aborted babies and had a baby doll hanging by its neck from a rope covered in "blood" and my nephew asked me why the babies were like that, what do you tell a 3 year old when they ask that question? Who cares if theres a StarShip trying to open he's not going to ask me what it is, it will be just another building to him and every other child thats sees it. But these Hypocritical protesters need to rethink what they are showing if they are so worried about how it will affect children when SEX IS A PART OF LIFE! GET OVER IT! And who are they to judge isnt that unchristian like or something....
Posted by Megan Land at 1:28 AM
I know of at least 1 Councilman that not only returned the phone calls, but went by the shop to see the condition that it was in and why he was asking for the variance to move. But please do not confuse the City of Newnan Council with the Coweta County Commission. The County Commission passed this ordinance, not the City Council. I do think that it was done quickly and covertly so that the opposition did not have any time to build a defense. I know how governments run, and it is almost impossible to believe that the County Commission called this "expert" on Sunday, and he just happened not to be busy Monday night, and was able to travel down here and prepare an ordinance all within 24 hours. That just leads to the question of "Why wasn't any current or potential business owners that would be impacted by this ordinance asked for input or opinions?" Normally, when an ordinance is coming up that has this much of an impact (if it is enforced as it is written and not just against Starship), the Commission/Council likes to hear the input of those that will be affected. But, things change........
Posted by Greg at 1:28 AM
i guess its the end of the human race in coweta co. as we know it since starship cant open. however will we populate again without the help from this tiny mircale of a store? ooooooooh the humanity!
Posted by eclipse at 1:23 AM
What a waste of time and taxpayer money to pass a law like this. You know this make viagra and sialis illegal!
Posted by J. at 1:21 AM
The posts in favor of it are friends of kelly rogers. Who in their right mind wants all the crime and lowered property values? Hey, kelly, you are wasting your time. Take your weasel lawyers and move on to another seedy town. You are not welcome here.
Posted by Coweta Majority at 1:20 AM
Just for the pure fact that Coweta County already has a very high teen birth rate this is absolutely ignorant! So much for Coweta County promoting safe sex. As for StarShip I do not think there is any problem with it opening. Personally I do not see how it would effect any one that does not go into the store, what windows there are on the building are blacked out. I do not see how it is any different from late night HBO or showtime porn that children can watch in there own homes unlike with StarShip you have to show Identification as soon as you walk into the door.
Posted by Brenna Land at 1:17 AM
For the first time in my life, I am embarrassed to live in Coweta County.
Posted by Native Cowetan at 1:16 AM
The real crime here is that our commissioners overstepped their boundaries. They can no longer be trusted. They continue to have secret meetings making uneducated decisions. While I personally did not want Starship here, it would have been possible to get him out of business easily in a short time by pressure from the community. For those of us that live almost next to the location the issue was never if he was here but where he was located. This could have been resolved for this issue and future issues if the commission had just passed the one line item listed out of the many that they actually did. Sexually-oriented businesses are allowed in Coweta, but must be in an industrially-zoned area and at least 1,000 feet from schools, parks, churches, day-care centers, and residentially-zoned property. If Mr. Rogers had put his business in an appropriate location there would be no discussion, no disagreement and no problems. Bad business and community decisions on his part and bad political and community decisions on the commissions part. So Mr. Rogers and Commissioners get your moving trucks rented because the result is going to be the same for all of you. You all are going to be moving out. You all need to go, none of you have the best interest of the coweta citizens at heart.
Posted by Locally affected resident at 1:08 AM
Here's a non-religious argument: Georgia Law 16-12-80 which states: § 16-12-80. Distributing obscene material; obscene material defined; (c) Any device designed or marketed as useful primarily for the stimulation of human genital organs is obscene material under this Code section. Please know the law before posting your ignorant comments
Posted by DB at 12:59 AM
coweta county should pick their battles. We are in an economic crisis here. All these people(u know who u r) are worried about is an adult shop, and adult toys. Put your effort into the people losing jobs and families that have no where to go. Newnan needs to wake up it is 2009. Dont like it then dont buy it or dont shop there. I dont like your church so I dont attend it. Most of them are not who they really are any way.
Posted by james at 12:52 AM
Prove it! What am I talking about? Prove ANY of the garbage that you keep posting. Show me the studies of how EVERY time an adult store opens, the town starts a trend with drugs and then strip clubs. Prove ANY of the ridiculous statements that you keep posting! Guess what?? You can't, because it is all nothing more than your close minded opinion! Next time that you feel compelled to post "facts", why don't you actually back it up!
Posted by Coweta Resident at 12:51 AM
The irony is this business probably would not have lasted 18 months in this economy had it been given a shot at opening. Read the news. The porn industry isn't immune to the economic problems hurting this country! Instead, our government leaders have taken it upon themselves to dicate morality for us all. Now, this will end up in the court systems and I'm willing to bet Mr. Rogers will be awarded a boat load of money! It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood.....
Posted by Dirk Diggler at 12:47 AM
Did you realize that you could simply mind your own business. By the way, you are NOT speaking for the majority and I challenge you to prove that you are. How about supporting a county vote on the issue? As for assuming that you are the majority, remember what they say about assuming...
Posted by Coweta Resident at 12:37 AM
Will NuLink have to stop offering adult movies on PPV? Will Publix really pull their KY Warming Gel off the shelft. If you are going to pass laws they have to be enforcable for all. This was probably a lawyer only way to provide a product that allows the County Commission to keep Starship from opening, but as usual nobody really thought it thru. Bet the Paper is just thrilled with our ongoing 344 post.....
Posted by Question at 12:33 AM
I just wish this whole fiasco stops. We don't want someone to go to court wasting taxpayer money during tough times just to open a store. Can't we all come up with a plan where everyone can be satisfied and not lose any money.
Posted by anonymous at 12:31 AM
I'm sorry for what you went through, but your personal experience is not that of others. With that said, why can't any of you, that support the actions of the commission, debate your position without making it religious? What is the relevance. Just as your religious beliefs have no right to dictate to me the style of condom that I choose to use or the lubricant that I prefer. These are legal things and the decision to make them unavailable to me is, quite frankly, and infringement of my rights! Your rights do NOT supersede mine!
Posted by Coweta Resident at 12:22 AM
Old National, Tara Blvd and Central Ave.. these are the addresses of other "Starship" stores.. Do you want Newnan/Thomas Crossroads to turn into any one of these locations?? Once that door is opened that is what we will have and it will be too late to turn back! The commissioners did a great job of trying to protect us!! I appreciate it!!
Posted by Lynn at 12:21 AM
I cannot beleive I am reading this!!!! Who is going to arrest all of the housewives having fun parties to purchase things to please their husbands? This is so stupid and ignorant and I cannot beleive that this city has nothing better to do than try and run this man out. OH but you will be very quick to take his donation to the local high school, and I am sure you are quick to take his donations to any other local charities that he participates in. The same parents putting this whole effort down, trying to shut him out are the same ones taking handouts from him for their kids in color guard. If you are so against it, don't take that big check you get from him once a year. we are in a recession people, we should welcome any type of business that is LEGAL and brings jobs to the table. If your children come into this place its not his fault. Its yours, for not raising them the way that you think is right. If they are exposed to the products inside of this store, its either because they purchase fake ID's to get in or they found it in YOUR UNDERWEAR DRAWER!!!!! So please, lets ban this buisiness but lets not complain another word of lack of jobs, lack of money contributed to our economy here in coweta county, because you are pushing away a good thing for unemployed people and you should be ashamed of yourselves. If you dont' like what you see, look the other way. because beleive you me, I am TOTALLY offended by the whack jobs standing out in front of walmart every sunday but you dont' see me putting up a fuss and trying to pass an ordiance....i am sure i am not the only one who feels this way. welcome to america, land of opportunity. go somewhere else if you don't like it. I guaruntee that you won't be sheltered from sex there either.
Posted by Wifey at 12:15 AM
Just because you say something is a fact doesn't make it so. I have yet to see a scientific study that proves that a single business brings down a whole community. What do you say about these paticular business in rich affluent area, or does it only apply to your own facts? We already have drugs (Meth, redneck crack), prostitution (and if you don't think we have it hear you obviously don't have family in the public saftey sector here in Coweta as I do!) I guess we are just working in reverse order in your analogy?
Posted by Joe Schmoe at 12:04 AM
If those christian groups really want a fight, we need to get Larry Flynt over here. Talk about really stirring up the debate. Thank you Christian groups. I hope that DC gave them heck when Mill Creek came to their house today. They deserve it.
Posted by DC at 11:58 PM
I've tried to post my comments in support of the commissioners and it is not getting posted. What is going on here??????
Posted by ALICIA at 11:56 PM
Came to my house this evening to ask me to come to their church. I said no, because they were one of the "groups" protesting Starship Enterprises. I got into a heated debate with the man that he had to cut the conversation short and leave. Thank you County Commissioners for your lame vote. Get a life.
Posted by DC at 11:46 PM
If it was great sex you wouldn't need toys. I'm glad I'm married to a real man!
Posted by jk at 11:33 PM
I hope the people of Coweta are aware that this story is getting coverage all over. And why are all these so-called Christians so obsessed with sin and perversion? Shakespeare hit the psychological nail on the head best - "Methinks thou dost protest too much"!
Posted by Marcus at 11:25 PM
You know that an obsenity ordinance would be nice but would it realy help,,I mean just think with all these young folks running around with those juiced up boomboxes in theshe little TO FAST AND TO FURIOUS WANT TO BE cars it would be next to impossible.I my self am refering to this 3letter junk called rap that the people of today call music.How many times have you sat at traffic light to make a turn and the 5th car to pass was the source of the noise that you have heard for the past 15 minutes or how many times have you been sitting in your den watching TV with the doors shut this winter and the windows rattles for 5minutes before a ride passes and another 5minutes after it is gone?So I ask you willthis ordinance help with the obsenity and profanity?I as a born again CRISTIAN would like to see something done but as I see it if you cann't enforce the laws , and ordinances we have why waiste the money making more to go on the books to also waiste time ,ink,and paper.Thankyou much. ]
Posted by Dennis Wood at 11:15 PM
People, PLEASE take the time to read this article again! My goodness..your all so worried about not having your condoms, and your KY lubricants, and let's not forget about the Porn items you can't live without!! Whatever did we do in the past without these vital items?? Teenagers will still be able to get condoms anywhere! Pornography nearly destroyed our marraige and our lives, it made me feel worthless, and it left scars in my childrens' hearts that they will never forget! Forgiveness, years of counseling, and now we work hard for our marraige to survive without outside influences such as STARSHIP. We have the absolute best marraige now, as God designed it. Thank You GOD!! Our family will FIGHT THIS together, our CHURCH FAMILY will FIGHT this together, and yes, our "BIBLE THUMPING CHRISTIANS Friends" will FIGHT THIS together! These "Elected" Officials/County Commissioners have done a FINE job! Hats Off and High Five to each and everyone of you!
Posted by Family Advocate at 11:14 PM
Are you kidding me? We allow a man to carry paosters with pictures of aborted babies for children to see and ban an adult store??? What about all the magazines in most stores? The government should not dictate what parties we have in my home or the condoms a person chooses to use! SIMPLY PATHETIC!
Posted by Michelle at 11:12 PM
here we go again the county is trying to control its citizens again. we as adults should have the right to buy,sell or use any items that we want that is legal by federal and state laws. i would have expected this to happen when hunter ruled the county but not with this commission. he county commission this is 2009 not 1959 get with the times and put aside your own liberal sexual ways.
Posted by chris at 11:10 PM
There have been many posts about the jobs that might have been lost over this decision both at the store and those who sell at and host home parties. It's not as bad as they make it sound. After all the County is going to have to hire some people to ride around all day in their trucks to all the drug stores, Target, Wal-Mart and others to monitor their sales of this type product and make sure those stores are abiding by their ridiculous, self-construed ordinances. I wonder also what the County will do with the products they confiscate from those stores that still have them on the shelves. I don't drink so I don't go to the bar, but the bar is still there. My family and I can't go to a restaurant without walking past or sitting in sight of the bar and all those bottles and neon signs (but we still go). That has more impact on my kids that what they can't see through blackened windows on a storefront.
Posted by T W at 10:53 PM
This is why I am so glad that I moved away from this crapy town. Everyone is Coweta county should be embrassed, as one person wrote. This is the most insane thing I have ever heard of.. Just so you know your sourrouding counties are laughing...They act like a bunch of virgins... Who are they to judge or say what free people can do in their own home. As another person commented, there are more imporatant things to focus on and stop wasting tax payers money. If I lived in Coweta County,i would move. I also want to commit on someone saying that only poor white trash would shop in a store like starship. What ever, keep telling your self that. All these people who are against this, well they are closet shoppers, they get their toys and lubs online... Ha, Ha...I guess they think they can keep crapy coweta county dry...Ha, get it no liquor or lubricant....LOL...
Posted by JT at 10:48 PM
Really????is it that shocking? Newnan is a small town.run by Small minds and "old money" I remember not too long ago the "one" tattoo shop newnan has wanted to relocate to a better area,The owner of that shop was never granted an audience with any city council members,(nor was a phone call ever returned). All that was asked was to move their shop to the square,on the second floor out of eyesight. When he went before the council with 5000+ names of residents/business owners that supported his move,the councilmen/women paid him no attention to his pleas or right to speak on behalf of his business. All he wanted to do was move his business. Now a much more serious problem arises with the opening of an adult store. The only way they could have passed such an insane law was to have a secret meeting...to outlaw anything out of the norm.(pertaining to condoms,lubricants,etc.)Not to mention the economic screw up it could cause to condom/lubricant companies that ship their products to be sold on the shelves in newnan. Way to go city of newnan. The people here are so afraid of their children being exposed to the awfulness of an adult store,and not taking into account what their own children are looking at on the computer at home.(or learning from their friends at school).Why don't they protest Mcdonalds,their food is known to cause obesity in anyone who indulges(not very good for adults or children)protest bars(alcohol's bad for you)Gun stores(I'm willing to bet there's more gun related violent crime in coweta county,than sexually committed) It's a shame when a business can't open where it wants because of a few ignorant people.
Posted by k at 10:37 PM
Have any of you nut-jobs read the ordinance ? Or do you believe everything you read on the internet ? Please read the ordinance before you proclaim that Walmart is shutting down.
Posted by DB at 10:36 PM
Ms. Mahoney: I cannot discern if you find my concerns and wording to be, shall we say, profundity. I think before one quotes from the 1st Amendment one needs to fully understand the words and meaning of the Constitution. If Mr. Rodgers could and should have set up shop as an Adult Sexual Business rather than as a Retail Business, this all could all been avoidable. It is my thoughts, he meant to be probatory. I believe he assumed everyone to be complaisant; however, he under estimated the people. It is apparent, we all do not share the same viewpoint and that is okay, but one Old National Highway on the southside is more than enough. I appreciate our Commissioners for taking a firm stand in protecting the betterment of this County. Gloria Wilson
Posted by Gloria Wilson at 10:36 PM
I have tried two times to post a comment about this. Why aren't my comments being posted. I want to say thank you to our commissioners. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!!!!!!!!
Posted by xxxxxxxxxx at 10:33 PM
Will Viagra be banned too?
Posted by reasonable at 10:22 PM
These "ELECTED" officials have wasted our hard earned tax dollars hiring a religious Zealot lawyer from Tennesee to get rid of immorality in Coweta county. I think they need to be fired for making stupid, foolish decisions. I for one will try to get them run out of office at the first oppurtunity. If this is all they have to spend their time on in what other ways are they wasting our money. This is such a blatant attempt to keep Starship out that Rogers will put his legal team on it and get his store open after we waste a bunch of money trying to stop it. These "ELECTED" official are just trying to appease the usually load annoying morality police in this county. Believe me gentlemen there are more people upset that you are trying to keep starship out than the minority morality police and have been complaining.
Posted by Hando Calresian at 10:13 PM
I dont think that these people should be able to dictate what we as US citizens and residents of Coweta County can do in the privacy of our own home. If I want to have a SEX TOY party, then I will. This violates our 1st amendment. I think that we should protest them, and show them that we are not giving up! Anyone with me?
Posted by KAYLA at 10:11 PM
I sell bedroom novelty items at Private in home parties. It is a way to make some extra money. We are invited into peoples homes So if I get pulled over are you going to arrest me if I have my stuff with me and if you do are you going to explain it to the organiztions I volunteer for and to my children. What a backwards town we live in and what a shady way to pass this ordinance. I think you should all be ashamed. You have affected the way stay at home and working moms make extra income to help supplement their household income. Oh yeah and what about the sales tax you get from our sales. I would like to thank the commissioners office for not calling me back after calling and leaving two messages.
Posted by katie at 9:54 PM
Is this just a stunt to get Starship to move to the Industrial Park? Besides, the owner of the Thomas Crossroads building owes over $12,000 in property taxes, according to the Coweta County Tax Commissioner's website.
Posted by Aaron at 9:41 PM
It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood.......
Posted by Song in my heart at 9:40 PM
I'm sure glad my grandpaw taught me how to whittle. Especially since we can't buy no "toys" here in Coweta. Guess we'll have to make our own. Assuming its still ok to own a pocket knife?
Posted by Dave at 9:33 PM
I personally think this is ridiculous. I am ALL FOR STARSHIP. I will GLADLY go there buy MY TOYS!! Just because you dont like it doesnt mean your being forced to enter the store or purchase anything. A store on Temple Ave sells "food" scales, "tobacco" pipes, "oil burners", & "jewelry" bags aka drug scales, pot pipes, crack/meth pipes, dope bags but noone is being forced to enter the store nor buy these items. So know do we ban this store/close it down? And children under 18 can enter this store. BTW I don't like mushrooms..can we ban those while we're at it?
Posted by Thats the way I LIKE IT!! at 9:32 PM
Coweta will, and should, lose this case. Regardless of wheather or not you like Starship, the county waited until the man had spent $20,000 to renovate the location before pulling the plug. They owe him at least that much back.
Posted by Tim Grooms at 9:31 PM
I woke up this morning and read that the Taliban has taken over the County Commission, aided by religious extremists. Sound like anywhere else that's constantly in the news??
Posted by RJB at 9:23 PM
This is what is wrong with all of you. Schlumper didn't vote for anything because she isn't even on the Board of Commissioners anymore. This is a great example of people talking out of turn
Posted by Elizabeth at 9:17 PM
I support Starship so I must be Poor White Trash as someone stated, but guess what?? I own my own property, house and me and my husband run a business in this county! Man Poor white trash must be stepping up in the world. We shouldn't be judging people over this...some people just like to spice things up and live a little. Why are some people being so mean? It's not like we are killing people, we just like sex and aren't afraid to have fun with it. Maybe if more people in this county had great sex like I do then the county wouldn't be so screwed up. This is going to get real ugly before it's all said and done.
Posted by JenStar* at 9:17 PM
Remember the movie Footloose? The "religious" members of the community banned dancing because it was too risque. Is that where Coweta County is headed?
Posted by Ron at 9:16 PM
True ignorance is not realizing how this store will bring in others like it, lead to lower property values and crime. If you really need sex toys, buy them in another county or on the internet. The vast majority of Coweta citizens agree with this stance and don't waste their time on message boards. I am speaking for them by posting this.
Posted by Coweta resident at 9:13 PM
Lets start a petition to get these stupid commissioners out of office. They were voted in to work for the people. Have they done that.... NO. They are afraid of not getting their "hand outs" from the blue money that is out in Coweta County.
Posted by rock n roll angel at 9:11 PM
Schlumper is no longer a commission; she did not have a vote.
Posted by Know you Commissioners! at 9:07 PM
JK do not assume and call people Poor White Trash just because they think differently from you. I guess that just reinforces your ignorance. I grew up in a very well to do family and I am anything but poor white trash. Tcresident I am also a tax paying, non-teenager. You just assume that people who do not agree with you must be ignorant & stupid or something is wrong with them. Please think rationally.
Posted by Sad at 9:01 PM
NEW Ordinance on the front page of the times-herald visit times-herald. com OK it supposed to rain tomorrow....I am making plans to Protest at Coweta County Administration Building 22 East Broad Street Newnan, Georgia 30263 on the corner starting at 11:30 am, this way all the people coming in on lunch break can see, and yes 11 alive and I am sure some other news stations will be there
Posted by Join Us!!!! at 8:51 PM
I really hadn't planned on shopping at Starship...but the county had gone a bit overboard by governing what we as Coweta County citizens can do or what kind of "toys" we can use within the privacy of our homes. The county needs fix the problems that it already has and just go ahead and let Mr. Kelly open his store, and then the county needs to stay out of our homes.
Posted by offended at 8:50 PM
There is one and only one reason for this ridiculous and absurd law: Starship. Sexual material has been sold in Coweta County for years in convenience stores, gas stations and pharmacies. You commissioners were elected by the PEOPLE of Coweta not the religious right. I do not desire any of my tax money to go toward defense of this Puritanical,outdated so called ordinance. Speaking of Puritanical, will the witch trials be on Saturday or Sunday? Oh never mind, we can get a drink either day now and enjoy the festivities.
Posted by cowboy at 8:47 PM
You are right, God did create sex to be enjoyable. In its proper place, sex is the most wonderful pursuit ever. To quote Tony Evans (pastor, founder of the Urban Alternative), "Sex is like a good fire. In the fireplace, it's wonderful. In the curtains, it's a disaster." Sex was created to be the ultimate expression of love between a husband and wife. But it was created ONLY for husband and wife. The degrading of sex to only a physical act disregards two-thirds of the experience. It truly engages body, soul, and spirit, which creates the “one-flesh” relationship that husband and wife are supposed to have.
Posted by PG at 8:43 PM
I posted a comment here and it has been 15 minutes and I re-visited the page. Guess what, they did not post my comment. Are they afraid of the uptight christian brigade. I think so
Posted by Rock -n-Roll Angel at 8:42 PM
well shut down Walmart, rite aid, cvs, gas stations and so on. They all sell condoms, porn mags, and/or lube. Take your bible out of my face, it seems to me the ones who oppose the most are the ones who do it. TRhe excuse of "this will bring drugs, and crime to our county are plain stupid. THEY ARE ALREADY HERE! Go protest a dealer, or junkie, leave my life up to me.
Posted by Tony at 8:39 PM
Dearest JK...I suppose my white trash self with a Master's Degree and a House (not trailer) in Newnan that I bought at the tender age of 21 would have to call my Private school children white trash as well... Get off your high horse and try doing something GOOD for the community, like taking the poor people food, or counciling the domestic abused women...not trying to take rights away from people. REMEMBER, THE BIBLE IS ONLY A HISTORY BOOK.
Posted by Married for 14 Years at 8:37 PM
OK it supposed to rain tomorrow....I am making plans to Protest at Coweta County Administration Building 22 East Broad Street Newnan, Georgia 30263 on the corner starting at 11:30 am, this way all the people coming in on lunch break can see, and yes 11 alive and I am sure some other news stations will be there!
Posted by Ashley at 8:35 PM
If there is nothing morally wrong with this store, then why are so many marriages breaking up because one or the other of them is addicted to pornography? That is something this store will be selling if it is allowed to open.
Posted by PG at 8:35 PM
Condoms are not being banned. But USING condoms hasn't been proven to slow the progression of STD's anyway. As a matter of fact, study after study shows that condoms do NOTHING to stop the spread of HPV, which is an STD that causes cervical cancer.
Posted by PG at 8:31 PM
Please calm down already!! NObody is coming to your home and telling you what to do. Go buy whatever you want online. Nobody is taking away all lub.. if you are in dire need..well you have issues anyway. The paper is reporting their side and putting a nice little spin on the story to cause all this outrage, guarantee it! Don't make Rogers into a victim and the Commissioners into the bad guys, IMHO it is the other way around.
Posted by happy camper at 8:29 PM
If people want to take their business to another county to purchase adult materials, GREAT!!
Posted by PG at 8:28 PM
No, Joe, YOU don't get it. This type of store ALWAYS ends up driving down the quality of life in the area. You can check everywhere in the nation (not just Coweta), and you will find the same progression. First adult stores, then drug dealers and strip bars because the stuff in the store doesn't thrill enough, then crime skyrockets.
Posted by PG at 8:26 PM
so now we will have to have permits to have sex now or what
Posted by joey at 8:22 PM
If I don't want to buy what Starship Enterprises is offering, I simply won't go in the store. However, the stuff that really "offends" me are the ugly, hateful signs that certain religious zealots (supposed "Christians") parade around with most Sunday afternoons in front of WalMart and now in front of the Starship store. Why can't we have an ordinance to stop that??? The Commissioners should represent ALL of the county, not just the lunatic fringe. Get Government out of our lives.
Posted by Karen at 8:18 PM
are you SERIOUS?!?!? next thing they will ban is sex period! it aint nobodys business what goes on in your home and how you "like it" but you and and who you share it with so who in the right minnd is really gonna think this law is gonna fly? nobody can tell me what to do in my home nor yours... its 2009 ppl get with it!!!!
Posted by becky at 8:13 PM
This is STUPID. I live CLOSE to where the store is going to open, and will GLADLY be at the door when they open to BUY SEX TOYS!!! :) Just because some gay basher "preacher" from MERIWEATHER county came down here with the news van, people are talking about it. Its not a big deal.
Posted by Ashley at 8:11 PM
This county has just entered into war with its citizens. We are all human beings. If you don't like fish you don't eat it; if you don't believe in the same religion you don't attend; it is not any different for the adult industry, I can't believe my tax money is being wasted on such bull..... For Mr. Rogers when you are ready to fight more than half this county is right besides you, and for the rest of you grow up or move the ...... out of tis county cause guess what the world is changing and you better change with it!
Posted by WTF at 8:11 PM
Truth be known, commissioners used our "tax" dollars to hire a lawyer out of Chattanooga to pass this stupid ordinance. I emailed our "officials" and got no response. They must be as uptight as the rest of those "bible" thumpers.
Posted by DC at 8:11 PM
Do you think that the Commissioners went to the drug store to stock up before this meeting? I wonder if these people like sexy lingerie because the role play should be banned too if we are trying to clean up. Look at the department stores with their sexy lingerie. Is that next? Kids see that too! They are trying to stop one business and end up dictating to every bedroom in the county what we can use and do. Thanks Franky for mentioning that we let the schools and health dept pass out condoms to our teens.
Posted by Voter at 8:06 PM
I do not want to inhibit your right to free speech; however I do take GREAT offense to your small minority speaking for the rest of us. I also am offended by the commission making their "Secret" changes without truly caring what the community as a whole thinks. I say give it a vote and ASK us!
Posted by Coweta Resident at 8:05 PM
I often wondered what kind of places bigots came from. I suppose that you and your horribly offensive post answered that question for me. Thanks! By the way, some of us "Real Newnan Folks" are embarrassed that you are live here! You should be ashamed! You are anti sexuality, but obviously VERY PRO hate! Sad...
Posted by Coweta Resident at 8:01 PM
Just because some right-wing Christian whackjobs' feathers have been ruffled should not ruin it for everyone else. I should not have someone tell me what I can/can't buy with my money. The reason we even have sexual-oriented items is that sometimes it needs to be spiced up or it gets boring. And I don't care whether condoms are ribbed or not, you should not restrict condom sales. There's an obvious reason as to why we have condoms. This needs to be put to a vote.
Posted by jordan at 7:59 PM
To the "do not assume" I guess in your eyes I would be "poor white trash"? Guess what..I was born and raised in Coweta County and I own my own home and I am PRO STARSHIP! You know why? Because the way I see it is if the County doesn't want it then they won't shop there which means it won't last..So let the community decide! If someone wants to add to their bedroom let them! Who are you to judge and call someone White Trash?!? Let me guess...You are one of the idiots that stand out on the streets holding signs and yelling into cars? Hummmmm who's the trashy one now?
Posted by Poor White Trash at 7:51 PM
Are we gonna close down Hooters next? You know they show alot of skin and that might turn someone on. Maybe the commissioners should stop letting their religous hearts get in the way of voting fairly for the community. I can promise if we took a county wide vote on this, us pro porn people would win.
Posted by Don't make my decisions for me at 7:44 PM
I get tired of people taking the word adult and linking it with the obscene. Being "Adult" has more to do with being a responsible citizen, working hard everyday, paying your way, and doing what is best for others before yourself instead of just being a word to describe a drug equipment and porno shop.
Posted by Kenneth at 7:37 PM
If you are worried about the community, you should think about how many people you are making angry about your decisions. If THOSE people move away, where will the economy of this community be then? Note that "those" people that I refer to are the MAJORITY, not the small minority who are currently pulling your strings.
Posted by Coweta Resident at 7:35 PM
In Footloose they couldn't dance or listen to music that was not authorized. Now we in Coweta County can't have toy parties or purchase lubricant or ribbed condoms at any store.
Posted by Brooke at 7:35 PM
Im sorry Ken but it is really simple. No one is saying they are not entitled to their opinion. They are. They can shout it from the street corners. No problem. But when their actions take away MY rights then they have violated the Constitution. It is just that simple. Those either in favor of (or at least those who are not demanding it be closed) are not violating anyones' rights.
Posted by Adam Rueter at 7:35 PM
Per Mark - "The article says "ribbed" condoms. Those aren't the only kind of condoms. The article also says "warming gels". All gels aren't in that category either. Did you ever hear of reading comprehension?" Per Me - Did you ever year of the rights and freedoms of being a United States Citizen? Did you ever hear of Minding your Own Business? IT IS NOT UP TO THE COUNTY TO TELL US WHAT WE CANNOT PURCHASE. IT IS A LEGAL PRODUCT. IF I WANT RIBBED CONDOMS, THAT IS MY CHOICE!
Posted by Married for 14 Years at 7:32 PM
I finally went, couldn't hold it anymore. Still haven't heard back from any of the three commissioners; I contacted early this a.m. about an unrelated matter! It goes without saying what kind of logic we have voted onto our board!
Posted by Jeff G at 7:32 PM
When did Coweta County become a dictatorship. I think the people need to vote on this. I am one who likes to buy these things and I think that I should have a right to buy them. Plus if I want to buy lubricants or ribbed condoms who are you to tell me I can't purchase them in the county in which I live. You really have a nerve MR. COMMISIONER. I really think it is time you get voted out next election. I mean how can Alcohol sales on Sunday be voted in and Lubricants and ribbed condoms and adult toys be voted out? I mean seriously.
Posted by Brooke at 7:30 PM
Hey ladies, I recently got married and moved to that horrible Clayton County where we have that horrible Starship Store. So, I can have those horrible home parties that are being banned in your prominent county. We will laugh, giggle, learn and have fun! The only problem might be crossing in to your virgin county. Sounds like road blocks could be right around the corner...Let's see...Possession of illegal toys and lubricants. Big fines ahead!!!
Posted by LW at 7:30 PM
Well said! Who is interested in OUR rights or opinions? Evidently NOT the commissioners!
Posted by Coweta Resident at 7:26 PM
First of all, to all the people who decided to degrade other counties who allow people to exercise FREE will & buy whatever they like (including sex toys, enhanced condoms, lubricant, etc), it is so ignorant of you. EVERY county has issues but bigger counties will have more issues, because there's more people so of course Fulton county (which I'm a PROUD resident of) has more problems than lil old Coweta county, so that has no relevance to this matter. Possibly the reason many nearby counties (Clayton, Fulton, etc) are deteriorating so is because the Cowetians come there and go buck wild because they can't at home! I believe that people have a RIGHT to buy whatever they want and apparently Coweta county wants this type of store because I'm sure his decision to open a store was based on marketing research not just a need to annoy close minded, time warped individuals.
Posted by CMS at 7:26 PM
So if i dont like the food a restaurant sells, can i have it closed? Can I have onions outlawed in Coweta county because I dont like them? Oh I forgot, its OTHER peoples' rights you dont have a problem with taking away.
Posted by Adam Reuter at 7:23 PM
It seems as if all the people that are in favor of Starship because they feel it is a Free Speech/ Constitutional issue are sure getting upset because the people against Starship are excercising their First Amendment / Constitutional right to oppose it.
Posted by Kenneth at 7:23 PM
I am very unhappy the Coweta County Commissioners spent our tax dollars to hire attorney Scott Bergthold of Tennessee to handle this. If Starship is such a big deal why not put it on an emergency ballot and let the voters decide on the issue? The money spent on this expert could have been put to use for the schools, afterschool programs, or even paying for an impact study on the pros and cons this type of establishment would have on a community. If this type of shop is not wanted then no one or few will shop there. It'll go out of business. Due to haste our commissioners were poor stewards of our tax dollars and poorly rewrote an ordiance. They should have taken the time to think this through logically. Shame on them. This is what we should be mad at. Now our tax dollars will have to be used to fight all sort of lawsuits. The ACLU will have a field day with this. We will all pay for hasty and poorly executed decisions.
Posted by Karen at 7:21 PM
In comment to the below.....You too can move. I was born and raised in this county. I have watched for more years than I care to remember the "old money" in this backwoods county carry out such foolish rulings. This county has seen MAJOR growth in the last 20 years and "times they are a changin'." Since you have such a problem with the grammar and sentence structure of the comments previous to your own I think you too much be just like the hypocrites that have plagued this town for so long. I do like this city and county for the "small town living" it stands for. However, when you start infringing on people's consitutional rights that's a whole new ball game. What happened to "land of the free"? Or are we taking that out along with everything else? I have read the comments and it appears that most not in favor of the Revised Ordinance, appears to have not only the same writing style but the same mentality. I have to assume you moved to this County to get away from the destructive and deterioration of Counties, i.e., Fulton, Clayton, & City of Atlanta. I pray our Commissioners continue to be deligent in their duties to protect and attract homeowners and quality businesses for the betterment of this Counties growth. Perhaps you are just discombobulated. If not, you can always move.
Posted by Karen Mahoney at 7:16 PM
"I just think it is ridiculous to spend taxpayer dollars to drag this out."
1/27/2009
Let's put it to a vote and really find out what the taxpayers want. I think you will find that you will need to purchase your toys in Clayton County from now on.
Posted by Taxpayer at 7:14 PM
Apparently Article 5.5 of the Constitution only protects certain individuals. The messages spewed by the Rev. Bill Ball and his merry Band of Followers is far more obscene to me than anything Starship would every consider selling.
Posted by DG at 7:13 PM
Well... if you have lived in Newnan your whole life. And you are Pro Starship then you must be what we real Newnan folks refer to as Poor white Trash. Because believe me only trashy people who don't own property or have any morals would want a business like Starship in their town.
Posted by jk at 7:06 PM
Funny how the commission had to have an emergency "secret" meeting. What were they hiding from? Maybe the MAJORITY of us who think this whole thing is ridiculous! I just hope that they have another "secret" meeting to figure out how they are going to pay for this lawsuit without using MY tax dollars! As a matter of fact, I think they need to make a list of all of the fanatics out there and bill THEM for this mess! They asked for it, so give it to them. Now for you, who are on the commission... You are cowards! Your methods prove this! I'll be sure to vote you OUT as soon as the opportunity presents itself! By the way, thanks for imposing YOUR wishes on the majority of us. We appreciate you taking it upon yourself to do what YOU want under the pretense of it being what is Best for the community. You know what is best for us? You to NOT be in your position! Cowards!!!
Posted by Coweta Resident at 7:03 PM
All of this to stop the starship from opening? Does that store have better lubricants than the drug store? When it opens I'll have to check it out. I think maybe we should start a class action suit against the county commissioners. I don't think anyone should have to cross the county line to buy condoms and personal lubricants. this has gone way to far
Posted by lol at 7:03 PM
Coweta County- you need to think about this decision!!! In a few years when one of these pro-porn's child gets pregnant or has HIV- I see a huge lawsuit coming!
Posted by BC at 7:03 PM
I dare you to come into my home and arrest me for possessing ribbed condoms and Warming KY. You and your attorneys will never see daylight again. How stupid are our commissioners anyway?
Posted by BOB at 6:57 PM
Their duties are NOT to cost us hundreds of thousands of dollars by causing a lawsuit that we CAN'T win! As for the offer for us to move, you can heed your own advice if you don't like the growth of the community! Hey, here's an idea... Why don't YOU and YOUR discombobulated fanatical friends PAY for the lawsuit! Why should We (the majority of Coweta Citizens) pay for what YOU want?
Posted by Coweta Resident at 6:49 PM
I can't believe the county is looking to waste millions potentially to fight something that appears on its face to be unconstitutional. Sad
Posted by jc at 6:41 PM
All this just to keep Starship out of this county. This is a waste of tax payers money. If you can pass an ordinance so it will make it hard for Starship to open then Ball and his cronies need to be sensored as well. I'm tired of my daughters having to hear the crap that comes out of his mouth. I know some of you are going to tell me if I don't like what he says then I don't have to go near him and I say the same to you if you don't like Starship then don't go near it. Why don't the commissioners use some of the tax money and tell all the crack heads sitting at home collecting welfare that they need to pass a drug test to keep receiving assistance. Oh and I found a couple laws that should be enforced maybe they have been forgotten and I'm glad I found them: No one may carry an ice cream cone in their back pocket if it is Sunday and my personal fave: Donkeys cannot be kept in bath tubs. These laws are just as ridiculous as this ordinance. Starship I support you! In closing: If someone finds out when those of us on Franklin Hwy can go to the bathroom will you let me know?
Posted by Franklin Hwy at 6:24 PM
Mr. Rogers, if you are truly concerned about utilizing taxpayers monies to fight you, then cease what you are doing. So far, you have done no less than what was expected. I believe the last meeting sent a strong message - we are not going away either. If there is any truth to your concerns, take your minimal loss and leave. This would be beneficial to all concerned. Gloria Wilson
Posted by Gloria Wilson at 6:22 PM
I understand why many oppose Starship's attempted move into Coweta County- it goes against small-town Georgian beliefs and values. That commissioners chose to prohibit the sale of some condoms and lubricants crosses the line, though. I venture to say that over half of couples who use condoms are not married, possibly teenagers, and the fact that they want to buy condoms to protect themselves is enough reason not to limit the varieties. If one chooses to use condoms as a means of preventing pregnancy and STDs, why take away options? As for lubricant, why does it matter what product individuals choose to use in the bedroom?
Posted by len at 6:22 PM
I can understand the concerns of some over Starship coming to town...but like any other business, don't patronize it if you are offended or just plain don't like it because it doesn't meet your way of life. We are all entitled to our freedoms and we won't all like or dislike the same things. That's life. No one has the right to tell me (I am a grown woman) what I can and cannot do in the privacy of my own home. I have had adult toy parties at my home and plan on having more...they are fun, educational and make life oh so much more interesting. Don't try taking away my freedoms...this is going to get nasty because such a broad range of people are being offended and it's a shame because our tax dollars could be put to such better use!
Posted by Vickie at 6:21 PM
The article says "ribbed" condoms. Those aren't the only kind of condoms. The article also says "warming gels". All gels aren't in that category either. Did you ever hear of reading comprehension?
Posted by Mark at 6:13 PM
I am apalled at the secret meeting and the ordinance! County Commissioners would better serve their constituents by dealing with real problems and remember that retailers operate on the natural law of supply/demand. If Coweta County residents don't want Starship, it would close quickly. If it does indeeed serve a purpose for residents, it would stay in business and lots of time, money and energy could be put to much better use than this ridiculous situation. And, to those so-called "christians", mind your own business.
Posted by Janet at 6:07 PM
According to the Constitution we are guaranteed life liberty and the pursuit of happiness. So that being said I do not believe that Jefferson addressed porn or obscenity at all. Is Michaelangelo's statue of "David" that well known warrior king of biblical fame be considered obscene because he is dressed in the clothes he was born in? The human body is not a pornographic object and God intended for sex to be pleasurable or it would not have the ability to experience arousal as we use it to go forth and multiply. What goes on in peoples bedrooms between consenting adults should never be a topic of public discussion. If I like my KY hot is that not MY business? whose to know? I am 50 years old and maybe I can make up my own mind what type of condom is my preference. This whole argument is about CHOICES.
Posted by Jima Hosmer at 6:07 PM
Nice step backwards you fools... All of you that where protecting your community have just allowed them to tell you what to do in your own homes... Now some condoms are illegal.. This just shows what fools really live in the county
Posted by Setira at 6:03 PM
I have read the comments and it appears that most not in favor of the Revised Ordinance, appears to have not only the same writing style but the same mentality. I have to assume you moved to this County to get away from the destructive and deterioration of Counties, i.e., Fulton, Clayton, & City of Atlanta. I pray our Commissioners continue to be deligent in their duties to protect and attract homeowners and quality businesses for the betterment of this Counties growth. Perhaps you are just discombobulated. If not, you can always move.
Posted by Concerned Citizen at 5:58 PM
Just wanted to give you an "atta-boy" on that comment. The commissioners in there now, you don't want to know! Has anyone found out yet what time western Cowetians get to go use the toilet?
Posted by Jeff G at 5:57 PM
So first it was that drinking was outlawed on Sunday and now we can drink when ever, but now they cant sell condoms in Coweta County. We better start opening more teen mother homes as we speak....how much will that cost? Let me know when dancing is outlawed so I wont shake my booty in public!
Posted by Erin D. at 5:53 PM
My husband is going to come home from war with less rights than he had when he left!
Posted by ShamWow at 5:53 PM
Well, at least this is getting national attention. From a religious outsider's perspective, I know plenty of "Bible Thumpers" who use sex toys in the privacy of their monogamous bedrooms. My sincere condolences to the County's residences
Posted by Phoenix, Arizona at 5:50 PM
There were coupons in Sunday's paper for KY products. I will be using those coupons tonight before I get arrested for buying lubricants! I don't think the Commissioners will "call" another secret meeting before I can get to the store.
Posted by lee at 5:46 PM
It's not only Starship that they are impacting by this....It's also the small business that sell products on-line. The on-line sales for these products are are massive, most of the hypicritical Christians don't want people to know what they doing in their bedrooms, so they order on-line. I suppose I'll have to throw away all of my stimulating products and then sue the county for my losses when I'm bankrupt.
Posted by Ebay Sellers for Coweta at 5:44 PM
With my profession, I see alot of things that many of you don't! Did you know that more than 80% of STD's can't be seen with the naked eye? With no condom, give it 3 days and then, it will be noticable
Posted by KaDeshia at 5:39 PM
I can hear the music and slow motion dance coming on now. Everyone join in.. soon we won't be able to do that either!!
Posted by Amanda at 5:36 PM
Regarding your comment about most of us not paying tax dollars....just so that you know...i pay tax dollars. I also do not allow my two brilliant children to attend the government schools. I have paid for their QUALITY education out of my pocket while also paying for your kids to attend the GOVT. schools. I see NO reason for this store or any of these products to be banned. Why is the Christians telling us what is right and what is wrong. There is NOTHING morally wrong with this store!
Posted by Married for 14 Years at 5:33 PM
I've yet to see the original question answered by ANYONE regarding changing laws on a whim. As for the argument about "if you don't like it you can move," that knife cuts both ways. The biggest difference I see here is that Starship is keeping their message inside the doors of that building, and they're not forcing that message on me. Can the same be said of the ones holding signs and verbally assaulting people on the Wal-Mart street corner? Finally, people keep saying how this would be different if they moved the business downtown or in an industrial area. The problem with that is Newnan already addressed the issue by already having a 5 percent rule in place BEFORE businesses like this went property hunting. More and more it looks like the ultimate goal of the county commissioners is to A)cripple this business before they even open, or B) prevent it from opening for as long as possible. Even Bergthold can't say with certainty that this decision will hold up in court. But do you REALLY think he cares? He's probably cashing his check from the county right now!
Posted by Ponsonby Britt at 5:33 PM
Yeah right! Who are they again???
Posted by Franky at 5:28 PM
some people are having a tough time finding the myspace group to protest this issue and because the paper will not publish webiste URLs pleas look up yahoo groups CACCONEWNAN
Posted by Ashley at 5:25 PM
Talk about backwards!! Let's look at this town in about 5 years. I would love to see the statistics on teen pregnancy, diseases,etc that increase due to the ridiculous ban in the town. Some of the terminology can be taken in various ways. Trainwreck waiting to happen. I for one - would not want any law to prohibit safe sex in this day and time. Lets look at the STD rate for this area in 5 years as well.
Posted by Julie at 5:25 PM
All the Coweta County women with healthy sexual appetites need to contact the Surprise Party Representative and book a party!
Posted by lee at 5:20 PM
With the economy in the tank and the Obama "spreading the wealth" I think our commissioners should be concerned with growing the tax base, not shrinking it. That is clearly what will happen if they outlaw sex! Try spending your time working on solutions to our real problems, commissioners! Your position as a commissioner depends on it. JR
Posted by JR at 5:16 PM
Ok, I can understand that you wouldn't want adult novelty stores near schools or nurseries to protect young children from things they don't understand yet. But honestly how are you going to deny the adults in coweta county the simple right to decide wether or not to have an adult novelty store. You politicians like to forget alot that we pay your salary, and the taxes that come from our misc. shopping. Why not just tax adult products more and use the extra taxes to do something respectable in coweta county instead of turning it into a strip mall.
Posted by Joshua at 5:15 PM
I can hear the music and slow motion dance coming on now. Everyone join in.. soon we won't be able to do that either!!
Posted by Amanda at 5:11 PM
What is the point of this? From what I remember last time I went to Insurection, in Sandy Springs (A VERY PROFITABLE TOWN, NOT LOSING HOME VALUE)vibrators and other "stim" products are sold indicating "For Novelty Use Only". Don't Forget massage therapy products. I suppose the foot massagers will be gone from the stores (you can sit on them for stimulation)...my garter and stockings stimulate my husbands erotic desire...my sexy little underwear...It is no-ones business what and how my husband of the past 14 years like to do to keep our sex life stimulating. All they are doing to sending the tax revenue to another county. Are they going to tell me what hours of the day/night I'm allowed to play games with my husband next?
Posted by Happily Married for 14 Years at 5:09 PM
If there is a "ban" on adult pleasures, people will just take their money to ANOTHER COUNTY. Mr. Rogers, keep up the fight!
Posted by Lee at 5:09 PM
PG, you do not get it. You can not change the rules in the middle of a game. Starship was going to get their lic. That was not disputed, but to suddenly leave the citizens of Coweta vulnerable to a lawsuit that we can not win is insane. Just let the store open, and let the law of supply and demand work. I think most people are upset that the county is wasting its time on little silly things that other counties are not doing.
Posted by Joe Schmoe at 5:09 PM
I hear the commissioners are trying to get two movies made here Coweta! I bet the singing and dancing is with them!
Posted by Sammy at 5:06 PM
While the new ruling does not ban condoms, it does make it illegal to sell them. So how do you come into possession of a condom if you can't buy it legally? You will have to go to another county. How idiotic is that? How long will it be before it is illegal to sell ammunition for your guns in Coweta County? It could happen just as easily. This issue is not just about latex. The commissioners should go back to doing what they do best; allowing reckless growth to occur in this county.
Posted by DG at 5:05 PM
Quote: "The ordinance does state that it is an "affirmative defense" to violations of the ordinance if the "act charged was done for a bona fide medical, scientific, educational, legislative, judicial, or law enforcement purpose." Please tell me how you can use these kinds of items for law enforcement? Starship should just change their name to “Starship Medical and Law Enforcement Supply Store” and call it good.
Posted by JS at 5:04 PM
I am planning a protest, and would like to invite eveyone objecting in comments here to join me to please look up myspace group Coalition Against Coweta County Ordinances this way something will be done, and it will be on the news....
Posted by Ashley at 5:04 PM
No Rebecca I don't drink enough to get drunk, and when I do drink at an eating establishment, I don't drive, someone else does. I didn't say sex was illegal, pay attention to what ou read. I said with this type of store, comes all of the other types of businesses that we don't want. Name me one place that one of these types of stores is at, that it improved the community? I have not lived in Ga. my whole life, I have been around the world, and have seen more than my share of the perverse. No where that these types of establishments are at is a place where I want my children to be.
Posted by trd at 5:02 PM
Must have "rocked" on a nerve there Pepe! Hey Adam, the home owners have a constitutional right to protect the value of their homes, just as much as you have the right to your "toys". Don't put starship in the neighborhoods and I'm pretty sure they would be more than happy to stay out of your bedroom.
Posted by walking with the commissioners at 5:02 PM
Regulating sexually orient stores (maybe to the point of banning them) is just like any other zoning or use ordinance. It is about controlling the type of community we want to be. If Starship supporters are outraged that other Coweta citizens want a nice environment for their families, too bad. They should move away. Maybe you'd be happier living on (old Stewart Ave) in Atlanta. The people there must be much more sophicated and tolerant. That modern progressive spirit has obviously benefited their community. I for one say, "well done, Coweta County."
Posted by Will Not Be Bullied at 5:02 PM
born and raised in coweta.moved out 5yrs ago.I now live in a town that has a condom plant. im curious what if a condom factory.would like to move or start in coweta. with hundred's of jobs.would the commissioners.vote them out ? this makes me very ashamed to call coweta my hometown.
Posted by jay at 5:00 PM
They can't be sold in Coweta. That does not mean they cannot be sold anywhere else, including the internet.
Posted by PG at 4:57 PM
Funny all these people complainign wanting to know who their commissioners are and how to get in touch....How can you complain about anything they do when you dont even do your civic duty and vote or atleast familiarize yourself with your local government.
Posted by Cowetan at 4:56 PM
"good ol' boys" are what is wrong with whole country, close minded "my Daddy did it so I'm gonna do it" attitude is why we are in the situation that we are in as a nation. However, that is a different topic....
Posted by haha at 4:56 PM
Can't you people see what they are trying to do? The commissioners are trying to brainwash all of us! Next we'll be turning on each other like a bunch of rabid dawgs!! I would like to think there was some intelligence on the board, but I'm starting to wonder. Some resignations from those seats would offer a few job opportunities for us Cowetians!
Posted by Franky at 4:51 PM
I wonder how would the commissioners react if the citizens of Coweta County protest in front of their building, and have ll alive news broadcasting the event on national tv? Leave the man along. He's just trying to make a living and maybe hired two of more people who needs a job.
Posted by Pro at 4:47 PM
Everyone in the county should be outraged by this ruling. This county is in the United States is it not? I though I had the right to purchase any legal product I choose. Watch out Kroger and Publix, you are going to have to pull all the cucumbers off the shelves. A rediculous statement for a rediculous ruling.
Posted by Rediculous at 4:46 PM
To all those contacting the ACLU, what right are they denying you exactly? The right to birth control or reproductive freedom.. NO. They are only limiting the sale of 'novelty' condoms. Nice try though.
Posted by come on at 4:46 PM
This is like footloose. Has anyone started an angry dance sequence yet? If so, I want in, just let me know where it is.
Posted by Bill at 4:44 PM
I would like to be there when the county Commissioners tells Wal-mart they have to pull all of there KY warming, and all condoms that are not plain. I think having there lawyers (That is with an S, as I am sure Wal-mart has more than five.) tell them it's not going to happen. Also, they are banning pretty much ALL condoms, as a major brand is named “XXX” which, according to the new ordinance is now banned. (FYI: Thomas Crossroads Flash Foods sell this brand of Condom.) The new ordinance was nothing more than a way to prevent ONE store from opening. Everyone is complaining because of schools, churches, and day-cares. But, have any of you considered that even if they moved the location of the store, say to Bullsboro Drive, and your children will STILL see it. How? There are restaurants, shopping centers, a theatre, and the “mall” area. I agree with other people that they should open the store; if the majority really do not want it, then DON’T shop there. Do not set us back to the 1800’s, because you can’t stand to hear the word ”sex”.
Posted by Jen at 4:41 PM
I think this is insain. Let people do want they want in their own homes. I don't think it is anyones business what anybody is doing in the privacy of their own home. You stay out of my bedroom and I will stay out of yours'.
Posted by Newnan Ga at 4:41 PM
Has anyone else tried to contact their commissioners today? I have, on an unrelated topic; yet have I heard from them! Maybe they're at Starship in Fulton Co. buying ribbed condoms!
Posted by Jeff G at 4:40 PM
Gee! The fascists never go away do they? In order to control and subjagate the masses. Better move out of Coweta county...Leave the fearful uneducated behind.
Posted by musclesteve at 4:38 PM
I really think the sex police are going too far with this. Don't we the citizens of Coweta county have far more to worry about, in this day and age? If you do not agree with their inventory, do not frequent their establishment. There are many more issues that need attention.
Posted by John Pfender at 4:32 PM
How can it be said that you can't compare alcohol consumption at a eating establishment to adult toys? Hello!! Sex is legal....Driving when you leave the eating establisment after consuming alcohol is not. You must be one of those that ties one on Saturday night and then ask forgivness Sunday?!?
Posted by Rebecca at 4:32 PM
Let's wake up Coweta County. For any woman going through menupause, you have two choices - use a lubricant or stay on medication. The use of a lubricant is recommended by all physicians. Medication is a last resort. Let's get our facts straight and quit reacting on fear. Does this mean that every drug store in Coweta County will remove lubricants from it's shelves today! I think we owe the owner of Starship an apology. Are the taxpayers of Coweta County prepared to reimburse him for his expenses as well as any other monies a court may award him.
Posted by Irate Housewife at 4:26 PM
I think we have read the article thoroughly and are mad as we can be that this would even be in discussion. How dare they even threaten to prohibit any of these things. I shall not calm down about this. I'm mad as H E double hockey sticks!
Posted by B at 4:24 PM
Doesn't section 5.5 of the First Amendment protect citizens from obscenity, not support it.
Posted by Mark at 4:23 PM
now the county needs to ban all sales of drug paraphernalia in all stores.
Posted by eclipse at 4:22 PM
Are you serious? If they can't be sold, how can you BUY them? If you cant buy them, how can you have them? So i guess i have to go to PTC to buy condoms and lubricants?
Posted by Adam Reuter at 4:18 PM
The 25% applies to inventory AND sales. He can stock the store with 25% or less of adult material and meet the criteria at first, but what happens when they audit his sales and that material makes up 50% or more of sales?
Posted by PG at 4:18 PM
What are the commissioners going to do about the Trojan Vibrator ("Personal Pleasure Device")add that runs on public television? What about the adult movies that are listed in my TV guide through the cable company? I suppose the Chinese censor for content, so can our commissioners. I’m waiting for them to ban dancing too.
Posted by NH at 4:17 PM
As a Surprise Party Representative, I'm offended. We try our best to give our customers a professional and fun presentation...trying to curb the negativity towards companies such as ours. People can still visit our website...how is that different??
Posted by Amanda at 4:16 PM
People, read the article! The ordinance does NOT ban condoms. "The obscenity ordinance prohibits sale or distribution of obscenity, and prohibits anyone from "knowingly" selling, or possessing with the intent to sell, "any device designed or marketed as useful primarily for the stimulation of human genital organs." " If you already have them, use them. If you don't have them and want them, go where it is legal to buy them.
Posted by PG at 4:14 PM
And the point of the party is to S-E-L-L...
Posted by Pepe at 4:09 PM
I guarantee you 1/2 the folks here worrying about their 'tax dollars' aren't even paying any. Many of the people concerned about this place not opening are teenagers or young people still in college who aren't even paying taxes. Give me a break. While I generally don't agree with a lot of what our commissioners do, this is one time I'm glad they, and the 'good ole boy' network that is entrenched in this county, will come out on top of this one. Just wait and see.
Posted by Teresa at 4:09 PM
please, I am begging the supporters of SS.. please read carefully. If you would like to live on Old National or next to a place like this, please do! I for one do not and I am happy they have taken a stand and kept the county "backwards". I love my backwards little neighborhood and if you do not, MOVE.
Posted by happy camper at 4:08 PM
But TRD- There was already a law in place banning those establishments...
Posted by Pepe at 4:04 PM
You're right, jj. The commission didn't make it illegal to own or use these things. It's just illegal to SELL them.
Posted by PG at 4:03 PM
Please read the article thoroughly. The commission did NOT ban the possession of these things, unless the intent of the possession is to SELL them. And the "party sales" are not definitively prohibited. The article says they MAY be prohibited, not that they ARE.
Posted by PG at 4:01 PM
Take a look at home values in communities that do allow adult stores and then tell me that you want one right next to your subdivision! Come on, folks, its about more than the morals - go to west atlanta and see what these businesses have taken away from any property values!
Posted by Coweta Homeowner at 4:00 PM
Next they'll outlaw sex in Coweta County. What a joke. Grow up and act like adults.
Posted by Momof3 at 3:58 PM
I, too, am contacting the ACLU...
Posted by Tori at 3:55 PM
The choice of the County Commissioners is ludicrous. Their job is to carry out the wishes of their constituency, which they are failing to do. If you don't think a major of Cowetans are in favor of opening Starship and similar businesses, do like we did with Sunday alcohol sales and put it on a ballot. You will save us tax dollars wasted through mindless litigation.
Posted by Unhappy Cowetan at 3:54 PM
I agree to what the lawmakers are trying to do, to a certain extent. Newnan is rapidly growing, and in order to see economic growth, why stop the opening of a store, where obviously, people will spend the money. I have been to Starship myself, and I find nothing at all wrong with the store. None of the items located inside are visable from the road, and obviously the items are not in a child's reach. Starship is strict about who can walk through the doors. You must present your ID and show you are 18, before you can even walk in. The government is all about having those who want such personal items, to have to drive miles and miles away from our homes to get them. Wasting the gas in our vehicles. But hey, they keep raising our gas prices higher and higer, they are making profit. Not us. Mr. Rogers has a lot of support from me and fellow friends and family members. My tax money is being spent on stupid stuff, when MY MONEY could be going to those who are homeless or less fortunate. I am not one to break a law, but sometimes, the laws they make get us into more trouble than they think. I mean, hello... They are spending money to build a new Belks? What was wrong with the other one?
Posted by Meghan at 3:51 PM
Dont you guys know that banning condoms will not stop young adults and adults from having sex. This will just make your kids have unprotected sex and then the spread of stds will start to grow and the birth rate with start to rise. How can they take these things away from people and it be right. You are just making to worse and many people will agree with that. This will not stand, people will fight for their rights!
Posted by Kellie at 3:48 PM
What a waste of our hard earned tax dollars. Just because a few Holier than thou feel ashamed of sex. A Ban on any type of condom is ridiculous, and lubes, come on people. How many sexually repressed people are there? What I choose to do in my home is my business. I find the 10+ channels of PORN and the magazines in all the stores more offensive than I do a store that I can choose to not go to. As for the placement I say its fine. (I live in the area) The in home party’s should stay they are a safe and enjoyable way for people to purchase product. I like going to a store so I can see exactly what is being purchased and privacy it provides (cash payment). And we wonder why Coweta County is so hard up for money... It’s because they do not know how to spend it. I say Put it to a PLANNED PUBLICISED TRUE VOTE. This is America is it not?
Posted by Shell at 3:47 PM
CC you have crossed the line. How backwards can a community of this size be to tell us we can't buy KYJelly or ribbed condoms? Not to mention what party themes I choose to have in my own home. This is insane.
Posted by Speachless at 3:42 PM
That is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard! Where does the GA government get the right to regulate what people do in the privacy of their homes? This state is backwards in their thinking and their laws!
Posted by Paula at 3:36 PM
Since there is not enough room given here for in depth comments, I'll simply say that there are way too many Hypocritical Natzi's in this world!! What happened to live and let live?
Posted by Lisa at 3:33 PM
As a long time parishener at CUMC I am glad to have this public discorse. All too often people lump all of the Christian comunity together. I don't think you can lump the sale of alcohol and the sale of lewd adult toys together. They do not go hand in hand. The consumption of alcohol in a eating establishment is completly legal. With these typwes of stores come the strip clubs and all the crime that goes with them. ake a look in Fulton, Clayton, and Dekalb counties. Do you want that element in our back yard and across the street where you attend church?
Posted by trd at 3:28 PM
listen, with this banning of the condoms and lub or whatever. Everybody has the 'privilage' to worry about teen pregnancy, an outbreak of disease, and death. So thank ya'll very much for everything, but that's bull. Why are people going to tell people how to live? What happened to freedom?
Posted by Kit at 3:28 PM
I applaud the ordinance. Thank you Commissioners for keeping our neighborhoods sacred.
Posted by Mark at 3:24 PM
I'd rather laugh with the sinners than cry with the saints....the sinners are much more fun....you know that only the good die young
Posted by Laughing.. at 3:21 PM
One more comment...I can go drink a beer and watch midget wrestling but cannot buy certain condoms and lubricants?
Posted by Chris at 3:19 PM
The difference is one is unconstitutional.
Posted by Adam Reuter at 3:18 PM
I just closed all my blinds. I am afraid someone might be spying on me and find out I have items in my house that are now illegal in this county. Maybe the commissioners can go door to door and see who is breaking the law...lol
Posted by maggie at 3:16 PM
This is ridiculous. The next thing you know it is going to be illegal to even have sex in your own home with YOUR HUSBAND/WIFE!
Posted by H at 3:16 PM
Ok...now I'm really angry at the waste of my tax dollars on this nonsense...As an adult woman, I feel this is such an infringement on my rights...where will they stop? People, you better stand up and voice your opinion now before it's too late. Remember, we voted you into office and we will vote you out.
Posted by Chris at 3:14 PM
I would like to have a passion party! How do I contact you to schedule one?
Posted by Lauren at 3:10 PM
This is so stupid, don't our county commisioners have something more to worry about, higher crime rates, higher drug problems, more homeless people, less jobs, domestic abuse, teenage pregancy from all this girls for "supposedly" good christain families, I will and can do what I want in my own home, just you try and stop me.
Posted by shocked at 3:10 PM
Seriously this has gone way to far. Bring on Teen Pregnency. Why should we use condoms at all.
Posted by This is ridiculous at 3:07 PM
The Times-herald will not even let me post the link to their email address. Just google Coweta County Commissioners and they have their email address as hyperlinks on their names.
Posted by Sunshine at 3:07 PM
This is the perfect example of a bunch of ignorant backwoods men trying to hang their beliefs on everyone else's shoulders.This is the same as making everyone in the county attend a christian church or school, or the same as making everyone wear pants so the don't show their ankles or legs. Passing laws that determine what people do in their spare time is unconstitutional because its not violating anyone else's rights. when someone goes out to buy sex toys, it doesn't affect anyone but the sales clerk and the purchaser. Its none of anyone else's business. This is when you pick your things up and move out of Coweta county. I wouldn't dare stay in such a close-minded place.
Posted by Faith at 3:04 PM
This is outrageous. Plain and simple. While I don't partucularly care whether or not we have a Starship, I am outraged that this type of backdoor zoning, regulation, whatever you want to call it is happening. Where were all these concerned citizens when the county was holding PUBLIC meeting to discuss zoning and land use plans? You were at home! I am, for the first time, embarrased to be from Coweta County and it makes me sad. I trusted our elected officials to use common sense and you have let me down!
Posted by lifelongcowetan at 2:57 PM
What on Earth are you talking about?!? Get back in your rocker!
Posted by Pepe at 2:54 PM
Let them open. If they go out of business, then the people here really didn't want them. If they thrive, then there are enough people here who do want them. Let the free market decide, not a group of holier-than-thou Bible thumpers.
Posted by Eric at 2:49 PM
Unfortunately, a ruling like this is only the beginning. Once the government sees that a small liberty can be taken away with little resistance, the next liberty to go is a little larger. Oh yeah, just how much did you guys pay the Senior Sin Man from Chattanooga?
Posted by Dennis at 2:47 PM
I live in South Fulton County and I spend alot of time and money in Newnan because of convience. Knowing now how the county commissioners feel about citizen's freedom, I think I will start taking my freedom to choose and my money to Douglasville, Fayetteville and Union City.
Posted by Chad at 2:45 PM
The shoes not so nice when it's on the other foot ,is it starship supporters? Take your own advice and put your energy into helping the homeless, and doing other service community activities and stop your Complaining. After all, you said it best, "the laws the law"!
Posted by Walking with with the Commissioners at 2:42 PM
148 comments only 19 in favor!!! I hope someone has told the "good ole boys" to read it!!!
Posted by donna smith at 2:41 PM
This is horrible, now we have someone controlling what we buy? What I do in my bedroom is my business, if enough people contact ACLU by email something will be done, if you have myspace look up the group Coalition Against Coweta County Ordinances
Posted by Ashley at 2:38 PM
I can't believe with as much progress as Coweta county has made in the last few years, that our commissioners would be so backward. I do hope the commissioners are not planning to be reelected? Where do they get off telling me what I can and can't do in my own home? This is a violation of my civil liberties. I don't plan to live in Coweta much longer due to this backward thinking, so commissioners, there goes some of your tax revenue.
Posted by Suzy at 2:34 PM
"Since hiring attorney Scott Bergthold of Chattanooga in 2006, the city has paid him $238,000, at $250 an hour". This is what the city of Johns Creek had to pay this lawyer. He goes around the country "fighting" the adult industry. His main motivation is wealth.
Posted by RW at 2:32 PM
I first read the article last night soon after it was posted and before any comments. I checked the calendar because I hoped it was April 1st. Unfortunately not. Gov. Sonny wants to withhold Homeowners Tax Relief Grant money from cities and counties. So Coweta County and its cities will have to radically slash budgets and/or require property taxpayers to make up the difference. And when this issue is litigated, the county will need money for attorneys, “experts” such as Bergthold, and other expenses. Even with HTRG money, the county might be short. Maybe the commissioners could assess those who support the ordinance instead of burdening all property owners. And how much are the commissioners paying Bergthold? According to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Jan 4, 2009, the city of Johns Creek paid him a total of $280,000 beginning in 2006 at $250/hour. I assume he’s on the clock when he drives down from his office in Chattanooga. And to vigorously enforce this, the sheriff will need more deputies. Perhaps he could set up a “porn reporting hotline” where concerned citizens could anonymously report sex parties or other infractions. The commissioners should amend the ordinance to require posting of photos in the newspaper of people found guilty of such offenses. If I buy a banned product elsewhere, bring it into Coweta for use with a partner and give it to the partner, is that considered distribution? Or if I buy a “male enhancement” product I saw on a television ad, could the company selling it be prosecuted under this ordinance? Will the county prosecute an “adult chat line” provider if someone from Coweta County calls? Or would they prosecute only if “stimulation of human genital organs” occurs? The mind boggles at the possible permutations!
Posted by Boggled Mind at 2:27 PM
Ok, so the NTH doesn't want to post emails for the commissioners and the ACLU. Thats fine; its your website and I respect that. Its easy to find out by doing a simple search of Georgia ACLU and Coweta County Government. Let your commissioners know how you feel!! And I'd think the ACLU would love to get in on this one!
Posted by 3 at 2:26 PM
Ridiculous
Posted by Matt at 2:25 PM
I am a passion Parties consultant and I dont agree with starship because of the porn.I dont want starship in coweta county.There is nothing wrong with sex toys, lubricants or condoms!!! Passion parties is very educational and rewarding to women in the privacy of their homes. I think this is ridiculous! I hope coweta county is ready for a huge increase in STD and unplanned pregnancies. This is unbelievable!!
Posted by consultant at 2:23 PM
I am the woman in the Blue Honda Civic with the "illegal" vibrator hanging from my rear view window. I believe you stepped way over your boundaries this time. Instead of spending OUR tax payers money on something we ALL agree on, you have just proven that this state is full of bible thumping backwoods people who are still living in the day when sex was a bad word. What's next, veil's for our heads??? I don't believe you have heard the last of this.............
Posted by LW at 2:20 PM
Thanks for the joke. Now, what was the real ruling?
Posted by Dennis at 2:20 PM
I am a teenager and have live in coweta county all my life. I have never been afraid to tell someone i grew up in coweta count but now i am. This is just so stupid telling us what we can and cant do in our own homes. If starship opens that means job for coweta county which is what we really need. if you prevent the sale of some toys and condoms that is taking away sale. Which in turn would be hurting buissness. How much are the commissioners really helping us?????
Posted by Eddie at 2:16 PM
O whatever..this is so ridiculous. Starship is not the end of the world or of Coweta County. Some people honestly seem like they do not have any real problems to worry about in their own lives and are forced to overly worry about a single store that they may or may not ever even drive past-much less go in. Last time I checked, sex was not illegal between two consenting adults and never has been. People's intimate lives are their personal business and how they choose to carry them out are also their business. Stay out of it unless you are the one that a Starship patron comes home to at night. Let those who want to buy Starship's adult products do it without you sticking your nose into it. GO to church and pray for those of us who see no problem in that store and know that you have done all you can do about it by doing that. You have no right to force your moral beliefs on anyone.
Posted by G at 2:15 PM
The owner of Lostship is very good at what he does. He starts a good fight, plays the victim very well - gets free publicity, pits citizens against each other; and all the while he is staking out his next score. Do any of you remember Norcross ? Have any of you seen what he has planned for us if this opens ? Do your research. Have you ever looked up AIN NEWS (grand openings) on the Internet ? What about 85 being adorned with his Billboards ? C.L.A.
Posted by Christie at 2:12 PM
I don't care for liberals and yet conservatives like these old geezers and make me sick too. Like the alcohol sales on Sunday, the voters have spoken, we can always get what we want in Peachtree city. The only thing is that tax money is going to PTC. I am going to vote all the current commissioner out of office next time.
Posted by mrlee at 2:12 PM
Rest assured when Starship opens, plenty of people WILL show support! Unfortunately, a lot of folks DO know how government works and if you knew who was in the government bed with who, it would probably khock your socks off!
Posted by Lee at 2:11 PM
As a parent of a child that attends Cornerstone...I was just wondering since people complain about Starship accross the street...are these same people going to complain about Publix next door selling beer?? What's the difference?? People this is America! Wake up and teach your children right from wrong and you wouldn't worry about what is being sold where!!
Posted by Rebecca at 2:10 PM
Did everyone google Scott Bergthold? Professional ambulance chaser of "sin".
Posted by Lolita at 2:08 PM
Mark, that pawn shop a few doors down helped their home values?
Posted by Pepe at 2:07 PM
Ricker got right to the point exactly. If Rogers would have put his business in an industrial zone where it belongs, this wouldn't be an issue. Thank you Commissioners, sending you all a letter of thanks as we speak.
Posted by Happy camper at 2:06 PM
You guys are not getting the point.The comissioners are not saying you can't have sex...they are just saying you CAN'T enjoy it
Posted by misunderstood at 2:05 PM
Thanks for doing the right thing. Anybody that wants to buy these products can do it online, and many other places in the metro area. What most people do not get is that Porn is destroying peoples lives everyday. It is your business if you want to view it, but we don't need to sell it at one of the highest trafficed intersections in the county. He could have put this business in a more appropriate location and I would not have objected one bit. It is his right to have a buisiness, but it is the counties job to see that it does not harm the public good by its location through zoning. You wouldn't put an industrial complex that makes tons of noise, has large truck traffic and chemicals near a school. We would be up in arms about poisoning our kids bodies. But what about poisoning their minds.
Posted by Satisfied at 2:05 PM
Of course Schlumper voted for this - she is a member of the Facebook group "Cowetans Against Starship"!
Posted by TCresident at 2:02 PM
Do we or do we not live in a free country? What is going on in Coweta County? I always knew that there was some corruption here but this is outrageous.
Posted by Valerie at 2:00 PM
I believe most people would cool their engines about Starship coming to Newnan if they would only choose a more appropriate area to conduct their business. Most people in the Thomas Crossing area have nice homes they want to protect the value of as well as the churches and schools nearby. Please ask that they move to another zoned area that is more commercial. Thank you
Posted by mark Ricker at 1:59 PM
Words cannot describe the disgust I feel towards our commissioners. Ofcourse this is unconstitutional! Do we live in a police state? What's next? Will we be thrown in jail for spitting in public. Obviously, there is some religious agenda behind this ordinance. Since when is sex an obscenity? I utterly repulsed by this. We should have a public debate? Get these W.A.S.P.s out of the commissioners' seats!
Posted by Craig Garmany at 1:57 PM
I guess the Commissioners will have to shut down Wal-Mart, Rite Aid, CVS, Walgreens, convenience stores. All of these business sell condoms and lubricants (tingling, etc). How crazy is this. Big brother is now taking over? What's next, bananas, cucumbers, etc.
Posted by AC at 1:55 PM
Where can I find a list of contact numbers for the commissioners and how they voted?
Posted by wantingtoknow at 1:55 PM
I posted a comment about how you can email the commissioners however they decided not to post it.... Google Coweta County Commissioners and Email your Rep!!! Let the voices be HEARD!!!
Posted by RW at 1:51 PM
Am I allowed to breastfeed in public with a cover?
Posted by Pepe at 1:51 PM
Lubes and condoms are banned?? And from home-held parties?? What happened to our free speech. Careful what you wish for people. If you are having "safe" sex, you now own contraband. What a joke!
Posted by k at 1:51 PM
My favorite rebuttal of all time: If you don't like it, you can leave. How very diplomatic and intelligent of you all. Tsk, tsk.
Posted by PF at 1:45 PM
If they check the distance the store is within 1000 feet of church property. Cornerstone UMC is right across hwy. 34. Even give easements the church property is less than three hundred feet fron the store. I actually measured it.
Posted by td at 1:40 PM
I really don't plan to be a patron of Starship. However, what gives you the right to tell two consenting, married adults how to be intimate?!? There is NOTHING in the Bible that states that using any type of toys in the bedroom is "sinning against God" (of course, you will pull some cryptic verse out of context to prove your point). I am a Conservative and a Christian.. but I am also an America who believes in freedom. I appreciate the commissioners aim to keep us safe, but you are taking this WAY too far.
Posted by Tom at 1:40 PM
This has gotten out of hand for sure. Do we as a county, which pays county taxes, what to allow our commisioners to tell us what we can or can't do in the privacy of our own bedroom? Really?
Posted by Nicole at 1:38 PM
I don't care if it says some,most,any.., the fact is no one should be able to tell us what we can buy; especially tingling jelly? You can still buy Orajel right? What's the difference?
Posted by Jeff G at 1:37 PM
Thank you commissioners! I like our "backwards" town. I choose to live it like it is. There are plenty of other cities that have what these others desire. We do have the choice to live where we want. If we don't like the city you move to move elsewhere. I appreciate it that we still take a stand and keep our city as clean as possible and I agree that this should be enforced across the board. All the gas stations, etc.
Posted by Happy Also at 1:33 PM
Just the logos of the condom companies will be enough under the ordinance to get them banned.
Posted by Pepe at 1:30 PM
Not only is this a trampling of the first ammendment right but is also an utter invasion of our prviacy. The board should be ashamed and also removed due to lack of seperation of church and state repeal this now!
Posted by Tim&Tonya at 1:29 PM
The commissioner passed an ordinance limiting commerce? Voted on it after a first reading? Who benefits with such haste? Who thinks this is so important they got in bed with the screaming preacher? Follow the money, who benefits from this action? This had nothing to do with morality or the best interest of the community. It is about the same group that always gets their way with the commissioners.
Posted by Drago at 1:28 PM
As much as I hate them... I just contacted the ACLU
Posted by Pepe at 1:25 PM
but he couldn't talk...he's at work right now. Said he'd call me back in 20. It's been about an hour now.
Posted by Bob at 1:23 PM
I was not a proponent of Starship in the beginning. However, this is getting ridiculous. I figure, let them open. If the store shuts down, it does. If it stays open, that's what the majority wants. This is a severe waste of taxpayers funds and it makes me angry. Furthermore, the article does specifically mention ribbed condoms. How crazy is that? Now, we can't by the condoms we enjoy and we can't by KY massage lubricants? This HAS gotten out of hand.
Posted by Tiffany at 1:20 PM
Everybody that votes in Coweta County ought to get rid of every one of the so-called Commissioners for wasting time on such petty matters. Calling a special meeting on the Lord's Day? Why aren't y'all complaining about that?
Posted by Lee at 1:17 PM
The county commissioners have gone too far. They have allowed their power to walk all over my God given personal freedom. If I ever can sell my house in this county, I vow to move my family and business to a place that is in touch with reality!
Posted by Normalgirl at 1:11 PM
This is incredible, Im guessing that if most who posted on here dont understand the ordinance,and have not read it. Most likely you dont know how gvt works either. These elected officials response is based upon what the citizens are telling them and from what is evident at meeting the people are against it. So if your so supportive of starship, get out and show the support instead of whining on a vent.
Posted by Cowetan at 1:09 PM
I am also a Chrisitan but I am ashamed to say I live in Coweta County now they are going to tell us what we can and can not buy and have in our homes IS THIS NOT WHAT WOULD BE CONSIDERED DISCRIMINATING AGAINST people. I think so before you start writting letters about explicit material and telling people what they can and can not buy you need to take a look at your own homes, fix your own problems and make sure your kids don't have the sexual explicted material under there bed. I for one am ashamed to say I live in this commnist county and I guess the next thing you know we will have the bars on the windows and having sex with our own partner's in our own homes will be prohibited.Until you startpaying my bills and feeding my family DON'T TELL ME WHAT I CAN AND CAN NOT DO IN THE PRIVACY OF MY OWN HOME.I am Disgusted in the people of this county.I will be so glad to see county elections come again maybe we can get some of you prudes out of office. Start worrying about the roads and other things wrong in this county instead of making up your own laws,all it would take is enough people to vote you out and according to the number of people who feel the same as I do I do not think there would be a problem there.
Posted by DG at 1:09 PM
Ha! I didn't think I'd ever see a place more backward and stuck in the Victorian Era than Heard County. Thanks, Coweta, for letting me be on top for once!
Posted by Ginger at 1:08 PM
Before you begin insulting other people's reading skills perhaps you should brush up on your own. It states very clearly in the article that the ordinance appears to apply to ribbed condoms and warming or tingling lubricants. As to not comparing this place to Iran, why wouldn't we, when laws are being passed that affect the freedom of the individual based on a portion of the populations religious views?
Posted by Elizabeth Wood at 1:07 PM
Way to go! Let's take away more jobs...That's just what the economy needs! Since I'd have to say that it's more graphic for my child to see these Bible pushers with a baby hanging from a rope screaming in car windows at intersections verses the Starship store, you think you could use tax dollars getting rid of that verses getting rid of jobs??
Posted by Rebecca at 1:04 PM
For those of you that are SO concerned that your teenagers will get pregnant or contract an STD because the sale of condoms will be illegal: if you read the very first line of the article VERY CAREFULLY, you'll see that "perhaps the sale of some condoms" will be prohibited. Seriously, know what you're talking about before you whine. And get more involved in your kids' lives.
Posted by RC at 1:02 PM
How dare they?!
Posted by What?! at 1:02 PM
Hope the commissioners and the church is prepared for the outcomes of this decision banning condoms. more abortions. more unwanted pregnancies. more unadopted orphans. more abandoned babies. more std infections.
Posted by Erik at 1:02 PM
Coweta County Commissioners are to be appreciated for their efforts to keep Coweta County a wholesome community. The citizens overwhelmingly expressed their wishes as they turned out for the recent meeting against Starship. The Commission did the right thing for our county. The Commission has the right and the responsibility to listen to the desires of their constituents and act accordingly. That they did. THANKS!!!!
Posted by Happy at 1:00 PM
Did anyone find out what time I can go to the restroom? I've been holding it, trying to wait on the commissioners to give me an answer.
Posted by Franky at 12:55 PM
all those people that were against the drinking law on sundays are the ones now in the restaurants after church having a beer... or they just go home and drink. Now all those people that are against adult stores in coweta county are the ones ordering the stuff on the internet!! whats next?
Posted by Jamie at 12:53 PM
This is probley the most stupidest thing I have ever heard of.Yall think the pregnancy rate is high now.Band condoms and see how fast that rate goes up! And when it comes to lubricants or "toys" that is that persons business who buys it!
Posted by Nichole. at 12:52 PM
Calm down and go buy your porn up the rooad. They aren't banning condoms for crying out loud. I can see reading is not one of the pro-starship's strong points but please don't compare this place to Iran, that is not necessary. Thank you commissioners for taking a stand.
Posted by happy! at 12:52 PM
My stars! Guess we better go stock up on KY products from Walmart before Walmart is closed by the pathetic folks calling themselves Commissioners.
Posted by Lee at 12:52 PM
Since the county is planning to go backwards in time: We all should live like we did in the 70's. Make love not war. What happened to that? What if the women walked around half naked and weed could be picked from any nearby land flat. I believe we've came along way, until now.
Posted by Jeff G at 12:51 PM
Everyone PLEASE use your power at the next election and vote the entire County Commision OUT!! Paul Poole and his group of followers need to go!! Just the fact that they have had a "special" meeting with little to no advance notice to the public should concern every citizen in this county! Stores are closing at an alarming rate in this county and they are playing with the first amendment! Pushing their "moral" agenda is more important than solidifying an economic base in this county! To the commission: You are done!!
Posted by AH at 12:50 PM
Nov. couldnt get her fast enough!! You bible thumping commissioners will be history! I am so thankful that I dont claim "the south" as home! Its 2009 for heavens sake!! Im tired of people telling me what I can do in my home, what I can and cannot purchase and what day I can buy alcohol!! This state is so darn backward!!! When are the retail stores going to enter this fight? The new ordinance just cost you major profits in already bad economy!! I agree, this will not hold up in court!! Now my tax dollars will be wastefully spended AGAIN!!! Are you going to tell me next that Victoria's Secret isnt allowed to open up in Coweta? Thats cool....i'll take my business back to Peachtree City and Atlanta where it is full of Yankees who dont live in a bubble!
Posted by Jane Doe at 12:47 PM
Thank you commisioners! Any one who doesn't like living in our lovely county is most welcomed to leave. I85 goes both directions north and south.
Posted by long time resident at 12:44 PM
This is a clear violation of our human rights and the constitution. I cannot believe the commissioners, the county and anyone involved with the passing of this, think its justified. "God gave it to us for expression of love and for pleasure"- who's decision is it to tell me how to express my love with my husband? You think this is God working? Maybe you need to go back to church and pray a little harder, psycho.
Posted by Anonymous at 12:43 PM
that the tittilating commercials on TV will be banned. I can still by my stuff online can't I?????? Seriously, I'm embarrassed.
Posted by Susan at 12:42 PM
All of this nonsense just because someone wants to open an Adult Shop! Are the temptations that bad, or are you afraid that someone will see you go into that type of shop! Get real, if you take away all the condoms and pregnancy preventions, than you are asking for a lot worst conditions to arise like unwanted childbirth, diseases, and Lord only knows what else could happen. Are we consider as part of Metro Atlanta? If so., Let us be part of Metro Atlanta and stop trying to be or do something you can’t control! If you want to control something. Control the people who sell drugs on the street, Control how these young boys wear their pants. Control the illegal immigrates whom keep coming into the county taking our jobs away from us. Now that’s something to talk about!
Posted by Darlene at 12:41 PM
It cracks me up that people are actually talking about this poor man who only wants to open a business here and all the prudes are fighting it! PLEASE! Of all the places in the county that he could have opened a store and probably gone un-noticed. There are plenty of vacant buildings in the industrial areas, vacant stores right off the interstate, even close to the truck stop. But no, her wanted to shove it down everybodys throat within spitting distance of neighborhoods, churches, pre-schools, restaurants, an elementary school, etc. Wake up people...he is not a victim. He wanted this fight from the start and he got it. Way to go county commissioners!
Posted by Student at 12:41 PM
You have got to be kidding...how can they tell people that they can't have parties in their OWN HOMES???!!!! I have been doing these tasteful parties in Coweta for 4 years. Now you're going to tell women that they can't have a girls night anymore? Rubbish! What's next? Monitoring everyone's internet purchases to make sure no one buys a toy? There's no way for me to verify the age of a customer on-line short of a simple click on "Yes I am 18." I check IDs at parties!! I'll be sure to start pushing my webstore more heavily...
Posted by Amanda at 12:37 PM
Thank you Coweta County Board of Commissioners!
Posted by Concerned Citizen at 12:36 PM
JJ I have lived here my whole life and I am absolutely not in favor of this ridiculous ordinance. Do not assume all the people who are for Starship are newcomers. That is completely ignorant. I know others who are for it who are 3rd and 4th generation Coweta County residents.
Posted by Do not assume at 12:36 PM
Come on now people. They are taking away our rights... Condoms and lubricants illegal?? Worse still is you can't have a private party in your own home. So much for bachelorette events and a fun girls night. Coweta used to be a place I liked to call home...now it's just a place of oppression! Give me a break...
Posted by Amanda at 12:35 PM
During all of the back and forth over Starship opening, I have kept neutral on the subject, simply because it doesn't affect me either way should they open the doors. What I have tried to do is keep an open mind about it- and I will say that both sides have valid arguments. But then there's what the law says. And I've been of the opinion that IF the law was written a certain way, and IF Starship conformed to the way it was written, then I have no qualms with them opening. But now it's apparent that last week's debacle and subsequent denial of the business license was nothing more than a ploy to buy the Commissioners some time to pass this ridiculous new obscenity law. Sorry Commissioners, but you can't change the rules in the middle of the game, especially to appease half of the players! Was it NOT the Commissioners' fault in the first place for not addressing the issue before Starship came to town? If they and the citizens were so worried about it before now, then why wasn't this fixed a long time ago? That's not even talking about the 500 sq. feet rule- I thought 25 percent was 25 percent? Since when can what constitutes 25 percent be regulated? What I want to know is who the Commissioners expect to foot the bill for the courtroom battle that is sure to emerge over their ineptness? But if they're in the business of making laws to suit their interests- why didn't they create similar legislation outlining what is considered harrassment towards patrons of Starship? Or how about disturbing the peace regulations over the use of the offensive signs and megaphones of Mr. Ball and his followers? You can't regulate one and not the other!!!
Posted by Jack Tors at 12:31 PM
I am teenager and i think this is crazy.... the teen pregancy rate is already high in Coweta county... wonder what it would be like if you bann condoms?!?!?!
Posted by Danielle Gault at 12:30 PM
Thank you for trying to uphold Thomas Crossroads to a standard of living that we know and love! It is a residential area where families can eat, shop, go to school, and play together without fear or shame. Thank you county commissioners for trying to keep out community like it was when we moved here.Like most, we moved here for a certain standard of living in which to raise our children. If you didn't have businesses like Starship looking for the little loopholes, the ordinances would not have to be so strict.To those who think that just a few citizens feel this way, you were obviously not at the commisioner's meeting.Way to go Coweta County!
Posted by Grateful Residents at 12:30 PM
Okay, I was never pro Starship coming to Newnan. Don't mind the place, just don't want it here. But THIS is extreme! My lands.
Posted by Bonnie at 12:18 PM
Hope the commissioners are prepared to take care of all non-planned babies if this goes county wide. There are a lot of teenagers out there who depend on going into a local spot and buying condoms! Too bad, our taxes at work to pay for non-wanted babies just because our commissioners are too archaeic to keep up with the times.
Posted by Suzanne Cochran at 12:17 PM
There goes my wife's small business, thanks a lot Coweta County. More jobs lost in our county.
Posted by small business owner at 12:13 PM
Should the commisioner decide what I have for dinner also?
Posted by Adam Reuter at 12:13 PM
I've always wanted to be a King but this is just as good, really. I'm glad I moved to this county because now I have my own troupe of Jesters for my amusement !
Posted by felix at 12:05 PM
It is a great thing the commissioners are doing. Oh yes and by the way US Bible pushers as we are called just Love the Lord and honor him,yes we have values,yes we have morals and yes we love sexual itiamacy.God gave it to us for expression of love and for pleasure.the Lord is alive and well in Coweta County. Thank you Commissioners Job well done!
Posted by j at 12:04 PM
Thank you Coweta county commissioners and attorney's for making our county ordinance more rigid. I appreciate the efforts of our officials. I don't want to see Starship or any other business of that nature in Coweta County.
Posted by Lisa Lassetter at 12:00 PM
I think that this has gotten a little out of control with the control freak commissioners and their pocket stuffers! You cannot tell me what I can and cannot do in the privacy of my own home so if we wanna have a sex toy party at my house every weekend I can do so. Buying ribbed condoms and tingling lubs are not going to make Coweta like Clayton...the drug dealers and thugs do that for us!
Posted by J at 11:57 AM
The obscenity ordinance prohibits sale or distribution of obscenity, and prohibits anyone from "knowingly" selling, or possessing with the intent to sell, "any device designed or marketed as useful primarily for the stimulation of human genital organs." Does this mean no more farm animals either?
Posted by Bill at 11:54 AM
Reading the whole article kind of gives you a warm & tingling sensation !!Pretty stupid if you ask me,you would think the county would have better things to do!
Posted by Married Couple at 11:53 AM
I can't believe the "Commissioners" think they can pass something like this and not offend most of the county.
Posted by Brian at 11:52 AM
This would be the next logical step for Coweta county to take. I believe there is a book titled "Catcher in the Rye" which is supposed to be naughty. Condoms would probably burn with the books but I'm not too sure about the lubricants, if they are petroleum based they would burn, but not the water based ones? Would this be correct? Hate to have a good fire for naught.
Posted by js at 11:51 AM
This law is a little too rough and I'm sure that the passing of the ban after all of this won't hold up in court. But think about the teen pregnancy rate as it is in Newnan. I moved to Columbus and it is no where near as bad as it is in Newnan. Teens can buy condoms as it is already. Why do you need sex toys, porno, etc. brought into Newnan to make the rate higher? Yeah I know it says you have to be 18 to get in there, but how many 18-20 year olds do you know that have already had babies and are on their second or even third one? We don't need to raise that.
Posted by Newnan Raised at 11:50 AM
"They came first for the Communists, ad I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a Communist; And then they came for the trade unionists, And I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a trade unionist; And then they came for the Jews, And I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a Jew; And then . . . they came for me . . . And by that time there was no one left to speak up."
Posted by Scared in Coweta at 11:48 AM
This is unconstitutional and will not hold up in court. With falling home values dragging on property tax revenue it is hard for me to understand how the county can justify wasting what little money they have in a protracted legal battle based on their own faulty morality.
Posted by JD at 11:47 AM
This is still one of the few counties left with moral dignity. Thank you Commissioners!
Posted by Clint Richmond at 11:44 AM
Thank you to the commissioners and those of you working behind the scenes for making the right decision to protect our homes and businesses from Starship and its negative consequences in our community. I realize irrational folks are screaming about other products than sex toys this morning, but when the dust settles, nothing changes for them, and we don't have that blight of a store at Thomas Crossroads, we will all be better off. THANK YOU FOR YOUR COURAGE!
Posted by Carolyn at 11:42 AM
I was not in favor of the location Mr. Rogers was building- and went to the previous comm. meeting. I would've preferred him to locate more towards the Amlajack Blvd area- an "industrial" type zone. I hope that better steps are made in the future not to divide the citizens on this issue. This has the ability to be handled maturely or the potential to snowball into a mess. I would hope that further ordinances target "businesses" and not private households. If its not handled correctly, the fight will turn Mr. Rogers into the victim, not the neighborhood that he disturbed.
Posted by Katie B. at 11:41 AM
So with this new ordinance will starship be able to open? It doesn't look possible to me.
Posted by MA at 11:40 AM
Way to go! I tired of these people trying to say that only christians have moral values. thank you commissioners for taking out the trash.
Posted by concerned citizen at 11:33 AM
If it hadn't been for all the church going people, I would of never known starship was coming to CC. Thank you for all the advertisement!! Also does the new ordinance also apply to Billy Ball and his group of sexually oriented sign holders?
Posted by Lori at 11:33 AM
So can the Doctors in Coweta County prescribe Viagra?
Posted by wow at 11:33 AM
Maybe starship can still open and just sell more dime baggies to all the crack dealers here instead of any sex toys. Makes sense to me why not just pass a law no starship allowed????? This is just plain STUPID!!!!!
Posted by Brandon Harrison at 11:33 AM
great here are your tax dollars at work. i am tired of everybody in this backwoods county thinking that they can push their values on everybody else you bunch of hypocrites. america was formed so that we could make our own choices with out fear of persecution from the government. what ever happen to that. the government needs to stay out of everybodys house and personal life. i hope mr. rodgers breaks these crooks we call politicians. aint nothing more lazy than a polititian or a preacher.
Posted by bj at 11:32 AM
I am truly in shock over reading this article. I am not sure how this could even be legal. Are you really going to try to tell people they can not have sex toy parties in their own home? Seriously? I am ashamed to live in this backwards, redneck, hateful county! I have lived here my whole life and I honestly wish I could move right now.
Posted by Shocked at 11:32 AM
So with the passage of this ordinance that means that the cable companies do not comply with this. They sell XXX movies on there On-demand section. So they need to stop this. This is starting to feel alot like "Footloose" Banning any and everthng that has to do with "sex". Welcome to the Socialist Coweta County. I know where my vote is going to the next elections. Enjoy your time Commissioners it is VERY limited.
Posted by RW at 11:30 AM
Goin' back to the 1950's! Time to find new Commissioners with some common sense.
Posted by Steve at 11:28 AM
If this nonsense stands, I am proud to say that I will go to Peachtree City and buy condoms for my teenagers if they need them. I would rather know they are having sex, educate them about the risks, and show them how to protect themselves than bury my head in the sand. This ban is STUPID! This is 2009.
Posted by reasonable at 11:27 AM
there are way too many up tight bible pushers in this county. ingoring sex will not make it go away just make it worse.
Posted by Nathan at 11:27 AM
The pro Starship people making comments need to READ before they make comments. ALL (unanimous)the commissioners (not councilmen) voted for a COUNTY (not city) ordinance. Coweta County has not made it illegal to own or use sex toys or lubricants. The people that just moved here and don't like it. You moved here without a Starship being here, go back to where you came from where there is a Starship. Also, the people who are upset they can't sell sex toys in their homes anymore need to be upset with Starship. We don't need those few sleazy jobs Starship would bring anyway.
Posted by jj at 11:23 AM
DB- Teenagers are not allowed inside the Starship store. Only people 18 years old and over, so no, this has never been about protecting children from anything. This issue is specifically about using personal religious views to attempt to control the private activities of free adult people. In that vein I have a few proposals. Ban the selling of all beef products, cows are sacred in the Hindu religion. No more pork products either, pork is banned by the Muslim and Orthodox Jewish faiths. No more shellfish, that ban can be found right in the Bible. Also no blended material clothing, that's also in the Bible. Meanwhile I suppose we'll have to find some compromise between the Hindu sacred cows belief and the biblical description of how best to sacrifice a bull to God. Hmmm, a conundrum. I wonder how Coweta's good old boys will cope with no steaks, no barbecue, and no hunting clothes. For now Mr. Rogers can count on my support for the coming legal battle, and I'm considering a law suit of my own, since Coweta County has seen fit to use my tax dollars to deny me the freedom to choose for myself whether or not to use sex toys, or even ribbed condoms and warming lubricants.
Posted by Elizabeth Wood at 11:18 AM
I wonder why you didn't make this public? Hmmm!! Maybe because this wouldn't have passed had everyone know about the "secret meeting". The County Commissioners are nothing bunch of cowards! I guess you are ready for a lawsuit, where lots of tax payers money will be wasted!!!
Posted by Newnan resident at 11:18 AM
For you people that CAN'T READ....it said nothing about banning all condoms, and there wasn't anything saying that it would even specifically include condoms.....They didn't say that it would specifically include most of the stuff that ya'll are fussing about....you just need to calm down and not assume the worst when you read a story. You can still own anything you want, you can still buy what ever you want, you just can't by it here, so get over it...And just because you don't agree with something that was done doesn't make your opinion any more right then anyone else's. Thank you and good riddance
Posted by Discusted at 11:17 AM
Do you think that the Commissioners went to the drug store to stock up before this meeting? I wonder if these people like sexy lingerie because the role play should be banned too if we are trying to clean up. Look at the department stores with their sexy lingerie. Is that next? Kids see that too! They are trying to stop one business and end up dictating to every bedroom in the county what we can use and do. Thanks Franky for mentioning that we let the schools and health dept pass out condoms to our teens.
Posted by Voter at 11:16 AM
We all like to think our sons and daughters will wait until marriage. But, if you take a poll of middle and high scoolers, you would be amazed the numbers who are sexually active. We can't keep 24 hour surveilance on them - when out of our sight, they do what they want to do. We hope we raised them with certain morals to make the right decision. But lets get real. With the kids not being allowed to buy condoms, we are just asking for staggering teen pregnancy and STDs. Then how much are we talking in medical and welfare costs? It's not that we're making it easier for them to get them. I just want to protect my kids from being parents too early, or dying because they did not have a condom to protect them from HIV. There are a lot more ramifications here than closing down an "adult store". Think about it people. Or your high school senior could end up pregnant and HIV positive!
Posted by SW at 11:14 AM
This law is absolutely insane. Prohibiting the sale of condoms? Teen pregnancy rate just got a boost. Telling people what they can or cannot do in their own homes? Crazy! I would rather see my tax money spent on improving the schools. THAT is going to make a difference for our children. Not some store that they will never go in. Get a grip people.
Posted by astonished at 11:13 AM
It appears that the county has plenty of taxpayer money to burn because this is headed to court and the county CANNOT win this and it is all on the taxpayers dime. Thanks a lot Bible Thumpers !!!
Posted by LawDawg at 11:09 AM
OK, I'm outraged. I personally own an adult toy and novelty business that does in home parties! It's not about OBSCENE Things. It's about making your personal and private time more enjoyable for you and your significant other! We have great massage items, candles, shave cream etc. I can understand if I'm flaunting it all over the place what I do, But I'm very discrete and share that with my customers and hostesses. The whole point of me starting this business is to help supplement my income so I dont' loose my home do to this economy. NOW What????
Posted by SDB at 11:08 AM
This is the most outrageous thing this county has probably ever done. I cannot believe they are going out of their way to tell us what we can and cannot do because a bunch of prudes are afraid of being tempted to go to a porn shop. I am actually ashamed of my home town for the first time ever. We need to wake up and enter the 21st century.
Posted by AR at 11:05 AM
I went on the commissioners website and found out Ashley Creek residents can only go potty during the hours of 7 a.m. til 9:15 a.m. If you're caught going any other time than posted, they will make you watch pornos for your repremandation
Posted by Sammy at 11:02 AM
You must not have a teenage daughter! When I'm thinking about my child's future, it sure doesn't include a footnote attached stating;( no sale of condoms will constitute early gray-headedness and pregnancy in minors). Health depts. and even some schools used to give condoms out for free!
Posted by Franky at 10:50 AM
I smell a witch hunt coming on!!! The Commissioners have now banned condoms, parties, etc. How can you ban what I do inside my own home? You people are crazy!!! Sounds like we need to start looking for new commissioners that won't bow down in front of a church or preacher when they start screaming "that's against the teaching of the bible". You people are great... I laugh at you one day, and think you are are stupid the next. I'm begging to think I'm right!!!
Posted by Puzzled at 10:41 AM
This is pathetic! Now the county commissioners want to tell me that I can not have an "adult" toy party in the privacy of my own home? If you really are against this decision - please take the time to write our county commissioners! They have to stop wasting our tax dollars on a silly fight!!
Posted by Renee at 10:39 AM
Good job County Commissioners! Please don't allow a very loud, but small faction dictate to our community what we have to tolerate. A small few would enjoy having a Starship on Front Street, while the rest of us have to deal with the consequences.
Posted by JH at 10:38 AM
Thank you Moderator for brining the evedince in the table! Sammy, your religous rhetoric is getting old and tiresome. I don't mind if your are religious, but you are trying to stomp on my rights. Don't tread on me!
Posted by Joe Schmoe at 10:35 AM
Did you find out what time your street gets to go to the toilet?
Posted by Jeff G at 10:33 AM
Way to go comissioners. All we need to think about is our childrens future. And not just children our teens too. I know they may find stuff like this on their own , but why make it easy for them.
Posted by DB at 10:29 AM
This is an outrage. I am disgusted with this county for allowing such a secret law making meeting to have taken place.
Posted by Jane Brown at 10:25 AM
If Coweta does quit selling porno stuff, yall can borrow some of my wife's and my stuff. I just went to Meriwether Co. and got it there. You know, where people still act like humans!
Posted by Jeff G at 10:24 AM
This is completely ridiculous get over yourselves. Business is business pure and simple. I want my tax dollars to go to fixing our roads or something that actually means something.
Posted by Mandy at 10:23 AM
What are ya'll thinking? This is a free country. There are way more things you need to be worried about than sex toys.
Posted by Jennifer at 10:14 AM
Enough said about Coweta County...Election time can't get here soon enough, nananana,nananana hey hey hey goodbye
Posted by Scott at 10:11 AM
I could care less if Starship opens or not but now the commissioners have ruffled my feathers! They went too far including ribbed condoms, tingling lubricants and home toy parties. It was specifically done to stop the opening of the Starship store when the owner has complied with everything required. Pass something for future stores but to add something at the last minute just to stop a store that is already stocked is wrong! Everyone needs to remember this when elections come around!
Posted by Angela at 9:59 AM
and 29 out of 30 are OUTRAGED!!! I wonder if our commissioners can read? So what do we need to do to change this or remove the commissioners?? Lets see just how a real democracy works. I personally have time to volunteer for the change.
Posted by Donna Smith..again at 9:51 AM
What about sexy lingerie? That is stimulating. What about people who have fettishes? Do their stimuli get removed as well? This is going way beyond reasonable!
Posted by m at 9:39 AM
It's so nice of Mr. Rogers to be concerned about the tax payers money. Don't worry, its o.k. that the tax money is being spent. They will make up for it with all the thousand dollar fines "you people" are gonna be stuck will. Thank you commissioners for a job well done!
Posted by You got my vote! at 9:38 AM
We used to be! Has anyone heard what time Ashley Creek Drive residents can go to the restrooms? Or the people in Summer Grove? I thought since the commissioners got to make up new laws, that they would include a time sheet of when Coweta residents could go potty!
Posted by Franky at 9:38 AM
Way to go! You did a good thing by changing the ordinance. You do not want to end up like Clayton County (trust me, I live in Clayton)!!!
Posted by K Robertson at 9:31 AM
I have been very critical of the commissioners on this issue but I want to give them a huge HIGH FIVE right now! Thanks for sparing us from this blemish on our otherwise wholesome and good community! Thanks for saving our property values! Thanks for doing the right thing!
Posted by DB at 9:21 AM
What's next? let me guess, tupperware parties are going to be banned!! This comedy show is getting so out of control. Coweta County is the laughing stock now thanks to shady commissioners.
Posted by maggie at 9:19 AM
thank you moderator for setting a prude like Sammy straight. I hope his family doesn't have to live under the rule of his thumb.
Posted by Pam at 9:17 AM
Sammy, I believe your conclusion may be wrong. You are only upset because there are this many comments. This does not make up pro-Porno. This makes us Americans. You actually want the commissioners to decide what you can and can't do in your own home? Get real. This is too many "Big Brothers" watching. Surely they have better things to do. I know that I need a job and if it's selling sex toys to people to enhance their sex life, so be it. It their life and no else's business.
Posted by upset in Coweta at 9:14 AM
The county commissioners have listened to their constituents and their consciences, and acted accordingly. I'm thankful for any efforts and resulting ordinances to keep a pornography related business out of our community. Thank you commissioners!
Posted by Commissioners Thanks for Listening at 9:13 AM
Sammy, what is a braod? Even the comments section has spell check. This is nothing more than intrusive government at it's finest. The legal ramifications should turn out to be quite interesting and equally expensive. Warming and "tingly" lube is illegal? Condoms illegal? Take away ethnic and female voting rights next to complete this draconian adventure.
Posted by jrs at 9:11 AM
As of 6 a.m., only one IP address appeared more than one time in the comments posted. And that address appeared just twice. Simply put, 29 out of 30 comments were posted by different writers.
Posted by Moderator at 9:03 AM
After looking at the pro-Starship comments below, I draw one conclusion. The comments did not come from a braod range of people, but only a very very few. Look at the writing style and the use of same words/phrase construction. Shame on you Starship!
Posted by Sammy at 8:52 AM
We need to be outraged. This is an attack on our freedoms. Those commissioners met in secret to change a law to suit them. We are becoming more like a Muslim county by expecting our legal system to enforce some of our citizen's religious and/or moral beliefs. I don't like this. I would like to see the names of the commissioners, and how they voted, printed in this paper.
Posted by Freedom Lover at 8:36 AM
Considering our tight budget, I really don't like the idea of my tax dollars paying a "nationally-known expert" for something so trite. I will be voting against the piggish council member in my district in the next election.
Posted by Ryan H at 7:51 AM
I have just recently moved to Coweta County and I can not believe how far behind in times this county is. Are the people in this county so far behind to think that we are still using horse and buggies and can only go to Fulton County once a year to get these same products?
Posted by William at 6:00 AM
Coweta County is pathetic! All you stiffs need to lighten up.
Posted by Jackson at 5:33 AM
So what litigation did the county discuss in is Monday exec session? Or did they go in there to simply have a private meeting to gain legal advice, and if so, is that in compliance with the Open Meeting law - somebody needs to ask about that.
Posted by eugene pitts at 4:29 AM
So does this mean you can't have/sell these items in Coweta Co.? There are people who make extra money or a living doing Pure Romance Parties, Slumber Parties, etc. You can't have bachlorette parties? What people do in the privacy of their for their personal satisfaction is their business. This is all about a store. Seriously, if you don't like it or the products sold there, then just don't go in the store. There are stores and restaurants that I don't care for, so you know what, I don't shop or eat at those places. I don't try to make people feel bad or below me because of this. They have the right to shop or eat where they please. Let's grow up. We can't always have what we want. Let the man open his store. At least that will be jobs!!! I hope there can be some king of appeal process.
Posted by What's the Harm? at 4:26 AM
Oh, pahleeze! Tell me this is a bad dream and I'm not living in this county of backward hicks.
Posted by B at 3:42 AM
Why can't the county get out of our bedrooms and worry about more important things? Mr. Rogers is not making you go into his store so if you don't like to spice up your sex life stay out of it. Now the county is going to take away my right to go and buy a sex toy or condom in my own county is crazy. I hope Mr. Rogers does fight this, he has my support!!
Posted by Jen at 3:03 AM
Coweta County commissioners are opening up a can of worms that should have been left alone. People that do the home toy parties as their only source of income are going to retaliate, and I would venture to say that the fight from Mr. Rogers is not over yet either. You not only cost our county revenue but now you are affecting more jobs than just the ones that were going to be offered by Starship. It is time to elect some new commissioners, ones that have more gumption than to run scared from Billy Ball.
Posted by Donna at 2:52 AM
I thought the Nazi party ended in 1945,the secret police went out the door with East Germany. Did they flee to Coweta County? How did they start regulating what I use in the privacy of of my home ,with my wife? What a way to bring businesses and more jobs here! Nice going Commissioners Election time will come again!
Posted by Bill Wood at 2:51 AM
The only reason you passed these new law's is because Starship wanted to open a store in your county. What is so wrong with that type of store that makes 40 to 80 year olds blush? At least it will be a new store witch means more jobs. I have lived in coweta all of my life and I can say this I hate coweta and there old way of thinking.
Posted by Mark at 2:40 AM
Are you kidding me? The County is going to tell me what kind of parties I can have at my own house? Whether I agree with the "sex" industry or not, just the fact that they want to limit what people can do in their own homes in plain ridiculous.
Posted by Out of my personal life please at 2:38 AM
Are my thong panties next???
Posted by Rights are slipping at 2:34 AM
This county gets more and more rediculous! So what's next? Searching homes to see what they have going on the PRIVATE QUARTERS? This place is a laughing stock!!!
Posted by why at 2:30 AM
I can not believe that the people of this county are acting this prude about a sex store. If you do not agree with it, you don't have to go there and buy stuff! Get over it! This is stopping jobs from being created and stopping money being put back into our community. Get over it!
Posted by TW at 2:28 AM
So does this mean that convience stores and book stores such as Barnes & Noble have to pull Playboy, Penthouse and such...and what about gas stations with condom machines in there restrooms? Seems that may increase teen and adult pregnances and STD's
Posted by Tony at 2:17 AM
What is everyone so afraid of? And regulating "adult parties" in our own homes???? Who do you think you are? Ridiculous. I can do whatever I want in my own home. I've never heard such marxist views in my life! And here in Coweta County? Or is this Cuba?
Posted by Lynn at 2:15 AM
I sures am glad 'yall passed that there ordeenance. Naws I feel likes Im back in the good 'ole 1800's where I's safe frum all tha evil. God bless the USA!
Posted by Hillbilly John at 1:56 AM
We are in a recession, unemployment is sky high, budgets are being depleted.... and our county wants to fight and quarrel about what the definition of "sex toys" are.... gov't is a joke.....
Posted by Andy at 1:52 AM
no more toy parties because it is against the law?! The more democratic this country gets, the more conservative this county gets. 2009 people. WAKE UP!
Posted by Steve at 1:44 AM
As a citizen of Coweta County, I am appalled by this new ordinance. This is an unneeded, un-required and total waste of tax payer money. It also trumps freedom to express ourselves as there are many people in Coweta County that do own and use sexual toys. Limiting where the business can operate does not bother me, but changing the city’s ordinance because people around a prospective NEW company are whining because they want this to be some perfect county is totally worthless. To those that are whining, complaining, and gripping because you think this county is picture perfect grow up! We are not, and have not ever been a PERFECT county. I can give you more things that are truly worth your time, effort and money than preventing ONE business from opening. Want an example? Try using the funds to help hard working mothers who can’t find reliable babysitters, or family’s that are about to LOSE there house, or volunteer at the local Unemployment office who’s lines are now exceeding three hours.
Posted by Jen at 1:42 AM
Where were you commissioners hiding while the sale of porn mags are going on in the gas stations next to the candy for kids to see?? I wish you could crack down on them as hard as you have Mr. Rogers. At least his store would not let my kids go in! Now you want to grab condoms and lubricants off the aisles.. How crazy this is! Better come to my house and disconnect my internet!
Posted by Parent at 1:33 AM
Starship without sex toys isnt possible, looks like Rogers got the boot...ha! Go Coweta County!! Send his nasty self back to a county that promotes that crap...Clayton maybe...not coweta!! God is GOOD!!!
Posted by HA at 1:29 AM
Way to go Coweta!!! You just set yourselves back 40 years. Next thing you know, you will start prohibiting hte double bed.
Posted by Armchair Vigilante at 1:25 AM
I applaud the courage of the Coweta County Board. We do not want a porno store in our community!
Posted by coweta resident at 1:18 AM
These chicken hawk commissioners setting up a Commission meeting on Monday, but annoucing it on Sunday? Talk about gutless. This is little Iran!
Posted by Saint Nick at 1:17 AM
I proudly stated both my first and last name here. I have already emailed my commissioner to say that I think the Commission should be VERY ASHAMED and that not one of them will ever be re-elected.I think the next picket should be downtown.
Posted by Donna Smith at 1:10 AM
Here we go again, stupid commissioners wasting taxpayer dollars on an inevitable lawsuit. Also, who is the county lawyer, because the commissioners are getting some bad advice? Seriously, banning condoms and lube? This has to be a joke!
Posted by Joe Schmoe at 1:09 AM
Oh come on! Our economy is DYING and the county is fighting Starship? How about take the money from this stupid fight and use it to really help Coweta County citizens get JOBS, keep roofs over their heads, and help keep school nurses. This is baloney!
Posted by job seeker at 1:08 AM
Boy coweta county is tying to tell us what we can't and can do in our homes WOW sex is legal. all of this because of the starship trying to open his store every store in coweta will have to be charged I see them in every store
Posted by sue at 1:02 AM
This is getting ridiculous real quick! The only reason this is even happening is because of Starship trying to open. Why does this county feel the need to control people, and what they do?
Posted by Newnan resident at 12:56 AM
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Why? Why do stories like this have to blight our great nation and this otherwise decent state?
Posted by Randy from GA at 5:10 AM