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Published Tuesday, January 27, 2009 in Local
Photo by Sarah Fay Campbell
Starship President and CEO Kelly Rogers takes notes at Monday’s meeting of the Coweta County Board of Commissioners.
Starship intends to open store
The Times-Herald
Despite the two new ordinances enacted Monday by the Coweta County Board of Commissioners, "we absolutely intend to open the store and we expect the county to give us our license as soon as possible," said Alan Begner, the attorney representing Starship Enterprises.
In a meeting that was announced just 24 hours in advance, the commissioners Monday afternoon passed a new ordinance regulating sexually-oriented businesses, and passed a new obscenity ordinance.
The business ordinance enhances the definition of an adult bookstore and puts more limits on the amount of pornography that can be stocked in a store that is not considered a sexually-oriented business.
The obscenity ordinance forbids the sale of sex toys. A violation can be punished by up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Under the new ordinances a general merchandise store can stock up to 2,000 items of pornography without being considered a sexually-oriented business.
"We believe that the county must still issue us the license, for a non-adult store," Begner said. "The ordinance describes the licensing requirements for an adult store, and we are not one."
"Of course, I am disappointed that after having fully disclosed to the county for many months what we intended to do, and the commission knowing clearly that we were a lawful use, they decided to duck the issue," Begner said. "We intend to open and operate as a general merchandise store with some adult material," Begner said.
And "I'm considering suing the county for passing this law specifically to try to ruin our business, after granting us building permits and a certificate of occupancy and letting us spend over $100,000 to renovate the premises," he said.
Begner said he and his client are still considering what legal action to take.
There are several legal issues involved.
One is whether the county can even declare the sale of something a crime when there is not a state law against it.
Until March 2006, the state of Georgia did have an obscenity law that prohibited the sale of devices intended for the stimulation of the human genitals. Despite the law, such items have been sold openly in adult stores for years.
But the law was struck down by an appeals court in the case of This That and the Other Gifts v. Cobb County. The court struck the law down because it banned the advertising of sex toys even though the toys could be sold with a doctor's prescription.
The obscenity law did not have what is known as a "savings clause," said Russ Willard, spokesman for the Georgia Attorney General's Office. Many laws have that clause, which normally states that if a particular section of a law is struck down, the rest of the law is still effective.
Though the law was struck down nearly three years ago, Willard said the attorney general's office has not been asked to issue an opinion on the "impact or breadth of the 11th Circuit decision regarding advertising under Georgia's obscenity statute," Willard said.
The Georgia General Assembly was still in session when the decision was handed down, Willard said. But there was no new obscenity law passed in the 2006, 2007 or 2008 sessions.
Willard said he didn't think the AG's office had issued any opinions on the meaning of the law before it was struck down, either.
"I pose the question of whether or not a city or county can make sex toys illegal when there is no state law making them illegal," Begner said. "I don't believe they can. I believe that, in order for the county to make sex toys illegal, there must be a state law that does also."
The sex toys are "only illegal on any level in a few states," Begner said. He said he doesn't know of any examples of a local government making the toys illegal in a state that allows them. "I don't know of any, and I don't believe there are any," Begner said.
And the fact the ordinance would affect people who sell sex toys through parties at people's homes, similar to a Tupperware or Mary Kay party, "creates an interesting additional argument for the right to privacy," Begner said.
"They should visit people's homes and make sure it is not happening. Or if they hear about a party being scheduled, it would be their duty to prosecute them, I think," Begner said.
The county's new ordinance does not make it illegal to possess sex toys, just to sell them. It would appear to allow the items to be given away, for example, as gifts.
The ordinance clearly states the prohibition is for anything "designed or marketed as useful primarily for the stimulation of human genital organs."
Even so, Coweta Public Information Officer Patricia Palmer said she was told that Scott Bergthold, the adult business law expert who helped write the county's new ordinances, was of the opinion that the law will not apply to condoms and lubricants, despite the fact some ribbed condoms and warming lubricants are specially designed and marketed as varieties that stimulate the genitals.
Another issue is Starship's vested rights to come in under the old ordinance.
"There are issues of grandfathering, and vested rights, when building permits are issued based upon a known use," Begner said. "And a lot of money is expended on reliance on the use."
When asked if the county's denial of a business license for the Thomas Crossroads Starship store would eliminate those vested rights, "I don't think it has been denied, because they have no grounds to deny it," Begner said. "I don't think they can deny it on the grounds that, in the future, we might violate the ordinance. We are entitled to that license."
Also at issue is the way the county went about it.
"As you can imagine, this was planned out over some amount of time. It didn't happen in an hour," Begner said.
"That is another disturbing matter concerning all of this -- the secretness of it and not giving me time to participate."
As part of implementing restrictions on adult businesses and obscenity, governments have to concentrate on the "secondary effects" caused by such businesses.
At Monday's meeting, Bergthold went through a brief presentation on case law upholding restrictions and the studies showing the effects of adult businesses, including "retail only" adult bookstores. Bergthold submitted into the record an entire banker's box filled with documentation.
"They have to show that there is a legitimate government interest in strongly regulating what is protected under the First Amendment," Begner said.
When that evidence is submitted, "we are expected to put into evidence our evidence that would tend to show that their evidence is not related to the issue," Begner said. If the commissioners were able to weigh that evidence along with the evidence presented in favor of the new ordinance, "it may not have amounted to sufficient evidence to justify the new rules," Begner said. "I was, of course, deprived of that opportunity."
But "none of that mattered, because this was results oriented. The commission caved in to protests and decided to destroy a legitimate business who had told them all along the way what they were doing," Begner said. "And by the time they hired Bergthold, they already knew for sure they were going to pass this law."
"This isn't about obscenity at all," Begner said. "It is about stopping us from operating after knowing that we have a right to open so that the board of commissioners can have peace."
Commenting on this story has ended.
I've been reading, and I'd like to point out to some of you who think the "GODLY" life is more important than these superficial rights that we're all trying to hold on to . Well ladies, the next time that slide on those jeans and hop on the road going to the polls to vote for your county commisioner, I'd like you to remember that there was a point in time that you, as women, were allowed to do neither!!! What if your right to wear pants and to vote were now taken from you. And don't say it's not the same, because a right is a right, and the more the government is allowed to take from us the more they will!! Please remember that beliefs and opinions are not right and wrong...what's wrong for one is not necessarily wrong for another! And quite frankly, since I'm agnostic, I'm sick of "GODLY" people trying to tell me how to live. I don't believe the way you do therefore your beliefs and opinions should not effect my life....seperation of church and state...another right that we are loosing!! Thank You
Posted by Lisa at 4:18 PM
I also value their safety and don’t want the kinds of people that go to Starship within miles of them. Posted by lee at 3:17 PM You say you want to protect your children from the types of people who would shop at starship. How do you know someone that works at your child's daycare or school doesn't shop there. What about the cashier or stockboy at the local groccery store? What are you going to do, ask everyone if they shop at Starship? You are ridiculous. There is no way to know if someone shops at Adult stores, unless, one you have seen them shop there, or two they have told you they shop there. You are passing judgement on what type of person someone is based on where they shop. Think about what you are saying when you pass judgement on me or anyone else.
Posted by Starship Customer at 4:17 PM
Here is what I found about your source that you cited for the statistics that you keep posting..."Pink Cross Foundation is a FAITH_BASED nonprofit public benefit corporation dedicated to reaching out to adult industry workers offering emotional, financial and transitional support." Does that seem like a NON RELIGIOUS source of information to you? For goodness sake, the person who runs the organization is studying Theology. They also do NOT state their source of this information either. Sorry, not credible and certianly not objective!
Posted by Coweta Resident at 3:17 PM
Apology accepted, Thank you and best regards.
Posted by JS at 2:49 PM
Peace love and happiness to all. This poster is GONE!!!! However, the rumors of my demise have been greatly exaggerated!!!
Posted by Hammy at 2:45 PM
My apologies my response only loosely responded to you in regards to obscenity on vehicles. The "I wonder..." was a general comment to all those who defend Starship. my apologies again I was not attacking you.
Posted by Hammy at 2:33 PM
Your exact quote " I wonder do you really to shop for sex toys that often that you need a local outlet? Really, like you shop for groceries? Really? that is amazing. Posted by Hammy at 10:34 AM Your convictions and opinions are yours, and by the grace of God and this great nation you are allowed to express them. But don't back peddle from your response. You specifically stated "Do you really" meaning that is what I do. Like much of the content related to starship, the elections, the county commissioners etc. people run off at the mouth with SUBJECTIVE comments which are NOT based on fact. If those comments are directed at me then I shall choose my right to respond.
Posted by JS at 2:15 PM
Everyday people make decisions that will effect their lives for ever. I know first hand that having a law that supports your actions will not bring peace and comfort when your heart decides that you have made a mistake. The children of America have been done and injustice by those who have supported laws that made "choice" and "rights" more important than teaching them how to live a Godly life. I will live with my decisions for the rest of my life, though thankfully I have been forgiven by my God because of His Son. I may have made a mistake, but I did not make it alone. The adults that went before me cleared the path, all in the name of my "rights". Please be careful of the support you so freely give, one day it may haunt you or worse, someone in your family.
Posted by Living with my "rights" at 2:04 PM
you need to chill. You are right I do not know you and furthermore did not address any comment to you. So back up dude. I believe that we agree on the testicles and urinating stuff on cars. I also have much better things to do with my life than stand on a corner a ridicule people. If this board was not so convenient I would not even post here. I have shopped at Starship and have no issues with what the sell. I do have issues with them setting up shop where it is in my children's face. I am a big boy I can handle, I can also handle raising my kids and this is why I express my feelings.
Posted by Hammy at 1:56 PM
If you're really that worried about what people will think about you leaving Rite-Aid onto 34, a) throw your bag of Rite-Aid purchases on your dash so everyone who is passing harsh judgment on you frequenting that den of iniquity will quickly see that they're mistaken or b) leave onto 154. I guess that also means you won't shop at that BP, dry-cleaners or emissions inspection station. @ JS: Well said and I agree wholeheartedly!
Posted by aka at 1:48 PM
"with God all things are possible"....I couldn't agree more. God is love and I love my neighbor as I love myself (including you). I do not commit adultery, murder or any other abominable acts. God teaches patience, love, mercy, forgiveness and grace. Not a one of us escapes sin. Passing judgement goes against God's teachings. By the grace of God I accept ALL of God's children regardless of their beliefs. Several of my close friends are Wiccan, gay, straight, etc. God commands us to love them regardless. Lots of people enjoy the variety that Starship offers and it certainly is not MY place to pass judgement. I shall show grace. Please remember his teachings and not distort them.
Posted by L at 1:46 PM
The point is not whether you believe (or even 90% of the county) porn to be wrong. It is protected under the first ammendment. Like it or not, they have the right to open.
Posted by Adam Reuter at 1:37 PM
I used to frequent head shops like starship back several years ago (and that's basically what it is, a head shop gone porn.) Then I became a born again Christian and my eyes and ears were opened to what God finds an abomination and I saw what previously I considered harmless as dangerous and filthy. Honestly, you cannot argue with someone who does not have the Holy Spirit in them about moral issues. They simply cannot understand. All you can do is try to lead them to Christ and that is the way to change lives, our community and our country. They have ears but they do not (actually cannot) hear...Arguing will not work, but with God all things are possible.
Posted by bornagain at 1:25 PM
While you may not care what goes on in our homes, the Commissioners have made it illegal to have the parties in my own home. Why? You are not just fighting against the store. What about MY right to have this party in my own home? What about MY right to go to Wal-mart, CVS, etc. and buy heated lubricants? Don't forget....these things were tied into that ordinance as well. Things were definitely not well thought out in this case.
Posted by L at 1:11 PM
Look around any convenience store counter and you will see pornography, sexually stimulating items and potions and paraphernalia that any child can see and ask about. I am a parent and if they ask I tell them they are for adults only. There are many places that kids are not allowed in, why is this one a problem? At least in this one the kids are not allowed. Every single person posting here, for or against, was the result of sexual stimulation and activity. Don't play innocent people. This store is just selling pictures and videos of it. What's the deal. I have read all the lame excuses against it. Haven't read a good, true, factual one yet. If you want control by government move to Cuba. CCC(Coweta Communism Commissioners) need to stop pandering to the few and listen to everybody.
Posted by Me at 12:54 PM
You wonder if I shop for toys that often? Do you know me? Did I say ANYTHING about shopping ANYWHERE? Are you making ASSUMPTIONS because I dared post? Did I say anything about your MORAL superiority complex? One day I rode my motorcycle past Billy Ball's folks at Walmart. Had my leathers on and was smoking a cigarette. Guy singles me out at the light and starts waving his sign at me and shouting "sinner repent" with his bullhorn. What, because I ride a bike? Because I smoke. There is a reason for LAW's in this nation, and they were founded to protect ME from people like YOU!
Posted by JS at 12:48 PM
Just wanted to thank our commissioners for standing strong on this issue. While I don't think it has anything to do with what is in the individual homes, some got that idea..silly isn't it? We don't care what goes on individually, just we don't want that store here at all. Simple..Thanks again Commissioners
Posted by Concerned at 12:42 PM
The person who made reference to Lynyrd Skynyrd made an excellent point that needs to be discussed further. Billy Powell may have been a good man, but the fact is that he played keyboard right next the drummer (Artimus Pyle) who is on the sex offender registry. Good point you made.
Posted by jacked at 11:59 AM
I'm also amazed that they need an actual store for "toys". Equally as tasteless is the testicles that are on the trucks...and almost as tasteless is the peeing Calvin. The testicles are actually more offensive than the store to me, but are probably not as bad for the community at large.
Posted by Michelle at 11:56 AM
oh please give me a break.. who care if there is sex toy shop down the street maybe it will stop some of the teen pergents just look at the rate for coweta.and you can't compair the ted bundy of this world to a sex toy.. what is next you can't buy warming lotion at cvs. if you don't like the store than don't go in there.. and as far as children go if they go to school they will see and hear a lot worse as a parent you need to talk to children and not hide sex and life from them or they will grow up to TED BUNDY!!!!!!
Posted by Martha at 11:49 AM
There are more items in that store than just sex toys. There are shaving creams and lotions, I cannot purchase anywhere else, that really work wonders for sensitive skin. I don't have razor burn issues anymore. Please, you really need to understand more before you base judgements on something you have no knowledge on.
Posted by L at 11:29 AM
So, you are telling me that because I choose to frequent this establishment, have the parties in the sanctity and privacy of my own home and my spouse enjoys it...I don't know the difference between what is right and what is wrong? I posted this before, you don't know me. How can you say these things when you don't know me. Keep in mind....I am your neighbor, your cashier, your teller, your kids teacher, your doctor, your dentist...etc. I could go on all day. Maybe you should interview everyone you come into contact everyday and ask them if they frequent these places or utilize these items. I can almost guarantee that the answer you will get is "that is none of your business". Please, what I choose to do in private is not considered wrong. I am very happily married.
Posted by L at 11:23 AM
Mel who determined porn was not right? Just becasue you think your moral standards are better than mine, doesn't mean you have to shove them down the free citizens throats too!
Posted by Sunshine at 11:18 AM
In order for the state to legislate any invasion into "privacy" (defined by the courts to be encompassed under liberty in the 14th amendment), it must show that it was enacted to further a compeling state interest. The zoning ordinances have been upheld as furthering the compeling state interest of maintaining property values, reducing crime, etc. What possible compeling interest does the state have in regulating items for genital stimulation? It will cost tens of thousands of OUR tax dollars to fight this. What a waste.
Posted by Wishes commissioners did a little research at 11:14 AM
So if i find a gun store insulting I can demand that it either shut down or move to where I cant see it? This argument makes no sense. You guys kill me. You act as though you have the RIGHT to not have to drive past a store. So i guess I have the RIGHT to not have people drive when Im driving if they have a calvin sticker or testicles hanging from their hitch. Please stop confusing your RIGHTS and your opinions. And for everyone who thinks the new ordinance is legal, you can find a free copy of the Constitution online. Read it!
Posted by Adam Reuter at 11:10 AM
Im sorry Mel but there is a BIG differance between what you think is morally acceptable and what is LEGAL. You have every right to oppose this store. However, this store has every legal right to open.So long as they follow the law (as they have). I have gone over both the ordinance and the article. Even the guy we are paying $250/hr is not entirely sure if certain condoms are now illegal. I have no problem with shopping in PTC for condoms if I need to. What I have a problem with is a group of people telling me what I can buy, and where I buy if from. Be a parent! tell them what the store is, and why you believe it is wrong. Covering their eyes when you drive by is not helping them.
Posted by Adam Reuter at 11:06 AM
If the public majority does not want it -- then why allow it? There are plenty of alternative sources avalable to those who would miss having this store -- mail order or drive to another location.
Posted by Greg Geerlings at 11:02 AM
First of all, to everyone pitching a fit about condoms being banned...read it again. They're not banning condoms, it says certain types MAY be included in the "stimulation" category. Second, just because pornography is now "socially acceptable", doesn't mean it's right. It is detrimental to many relationships, and having a store in plain sight only strengthens temptations that many people already struggle with. And I also don't appreciate having to explain to my young children the signs, the store, and the van that cruises around town. Raising kids with morals today is hard enough without more pushing against them. I greatly appreciate what the commissioners are doing, I'm glad there are still people in the community that know what is right and what is wrong.
Posted by Mel at 10:38 AM
I agree the calvin figure urinating and the testicles really show the owner's intelligence level. However the people stating that if you do not like starship just look the other way or do not go there, give me a break. When I am insulted I speak out, Starship at Thomas Crossroads is insulting. I wonder do you really to shop for sex toys that often that you need a local outlet? Really, like you shop for groceries? Really? that is amazing.
Posted by Hammy at 10:34 AM
Soooooo true JS. I've seen the truck with testicles hanging off of the trailer hitch too!!! They're always dragging themselves down Bullsboro! Tasteless!
Posted by Pepe at 9:50 AM
To all of you ignorant folks who say stores like Starship attract crime: Where is your proof? Show me the evidence that CLEARLY points to a link between adult sex shops and crime. Show me numbers. You can't because there is no proof. Go into a Starship and see who shops there. It's mostly middle/upper middle class white men and women with normal jobs. Them, and the potheads who make a bee-line for the opposite side of the store to get smoking paraphernalia. I'm quite familiar with the store and have yet to rape or molest anyone. Please, do you field research before making baseless accusations. And to the poster who thinks we're all going to become Ted Bundy's because we look at porn....if that were the case, this country would have millions upon millions of serial killers. They would be more numerous than con artists, burglars, and murders/rapists combined.
Posted by Roekest at 9:40 AM
I was flipping channels late one night and stopped on the home shopping network when I saw that they were selling sex toys. I laughed so hard when I saw this. We went from pots and pans at 9pm to sex toys at 1am. I was wondering if they had the flex pay option for these products also?????????????
Posted by Slinky at 9:27 AM
I hope auto theft doesn't go up, the County commission might have to ban softball. (makes as much sense as banning certain condoms to keep us safe)
Posted by me at 8:46 AM
it all boils down to your southern baptist hypocrites. it's the same with alcohol, go check their homes and i'll bet you'll find the same items they are protesting. all their trying to do is put up a smoke screeen. you know what, if you don't like the items starship will be selling then don't shop there. let the people that do wnat the items have the convenience of the store instead of having to drive to old national or highway 178. get over it people. its going to happen sooner or later, might as well go ahead and collect the revenue from the business.
Posted by charles at 8:31 AM
Thank you CCC!!! Thank you for keeping us safe! I will now sleep with my doors open at night. You know, I read the police blotter and its nice to know that all those people who are arrested for drunk driving and all those people with drug charges will now go away! Those arrested for auto theft, shoftlifting, trespassing, domestic assault, battery,hit and run, ect. All these things will now stop because the Commision banned sex toys. THANK YOU!
Posted by Adam Reuter at 8:04 AM
I personally find the little boy urinating on ford or chevy much more offensive than a silhoutte of a dressed couple. Even more offensive is those of you with large testicles hanging from your trailer hitch.
Posted by JS at 6:13 AM
Wow... is Coweta County supposed to be that popular of a place anyway? Anyway, if you don’t favor Starship you don't have to visit it, shop there or even acknowledge it's existence. What a concept!
Posted by f0rtun@te1 at 2:25 AM
Our culture has become morally desensitized to even consider the idea of opening a store such as Starship in Coweta County. Let's remember the Ted Bundy warning which he wanted all to hear prior to his execution. His obsession with pornography started out with weak porn which then led him into a life of obsessive violence against innocent women. Thank you Commissioners for doing all you can to keep porn out of this great county.
Posted by Linda Rivers at 12:51 AM
before you make your decision based on Starship attracting "that kind of people" to the area... maybe you should checkout the Child Predator Sex Offender Registry for this area. Starship hasnt even opened and the maps show hundreds of "those people" living right here in the area... even in the "Nice" subdivisions.
Posted by J at 11:42 PM
we dont need this in our community. our kids and teens deserve to be raised without all this garbage. its enough that we already have commercials and tv shows that are provative. where is God in this? its time ppl in this country looked at sin and called it as it is. stop turning your heads and ignoring God.
Posted by onfireforHIM at 11:03 PM
Thank you to the Commissioners and all that are working towards seeing that this store doesn't open. I am disappointed that Mr. Rogers was given the go ahead to the point that he was ready to open-- this should have been stopped before it started. However, that doesn't change the fact that we do NOT want this store in this area. I have 4 boys and this store would be within walking distance of our house... Also, I have to see it when I go to the store, to eat, and TO CHURCH. The signage is offensive- not something I want to see or have my children see--much less have the opportunity to enter. I am sorry for the work and $$ Mr. Rogers has invested. Perhaps an agreement could be reached to help him find another location suitable-- just not one where people are assaulted with images they don't want to see, or questions they want to hear from their kids...
Posted by Lara at 11:02 PM
newnan needs to catch up in the real world. in the privacy of a couples home they have the right to play with any toys or sex oriented lubricants. why are other citizens so afraid? are they afraid they might like it instead of their boring long johns and checker games.
Posted by terry shaw at 11:01 PM
Please tell me exactly what you mean by your comment... inquiring minds would like to know. I only hope you didn't mean what I think you did.
Posted by Coweta Co. Resident (PRO STARSHIP!) at 10:40 PM
Site your source for all of these studies and research results! Don't throw out statements like that without backing it up; otherwise it is nothing more than your close minded opinion!
Posted by Coweta Resident at 10:18 PM
To the Commisioners, why did you let it get this far? To Rogers, what are you thinking man?? You live here!! Why bring something that you've made a good living in Fulton Co. here where you live? You might not care what people think about about our area, but I do. I've seen your trashy van going down 85 for several months but had no idea that you lived here and planned on bringing this crap to our quiet community. I have no problem with people going to Old National and buying your goods. Please leave it there!! You will not have a profitable business business in our area. I hope you fail and lose all you have so foolishly wasted trying to get your 25% BS over our substandard county officials. Take it to Clayton Co. You might have to drive a little farther to work, but who cares, you don't care about our community.
Posted by T at 10:17 PM
Just curious to know if you experience physical pain from your closed mind! You have serious issues if you think that what the commissioners did was legal OR the voice of the majority. It was a cowardly act in response to the ridiculous vocalization of you loud mouthed and pushy people who think that you can dictate your view on everyone else! After you have cost the county a tremendous amount of money THEN the store still opens, how will you feel?
Posted by Tired of Whiners at 10:11 PM
Thank you, Commissioners, for writing a new law! I'd like to see the law put even tighter limits on what can be sold. This kind of business will draw customers who would not otherwise come to the Thomas Crossroads area and bring more crime along with them. We moved here looking for a safe place to raise our children. Let the people who want to purchase that type of merchandise buy it somewhere else!
Posted by Cherie at 9:50 PM
Thank you commissioners for trying to help keep Coweta Co. family friendly. There are plenty of internet businesses who supply the items discussed. We don't need to infest our community with stores and signage with the word "adult" anything on it. As quoted in the article, how does Mr. Begner expect to be granted a license for a "non-adult" store when the word "adult" is on the signs? What are we supposed to think he is selling? Personally, I don't want to get into those conversations with my young children as we drive through Thomas Crossroads. Let's stick with answering "where to babies come from?" for now.
Posted by mom of five at 9:42 PM
My only thoughts are why does that particular store have to be right there? As i recall the Union City Store was off the road but still in an area to be seen. There are tons of places in Coweta and some less distracting then the one they have currently chosen. Of course we all know that that particular building does not stay occupied for very long!!!
Posted by okay at 9:30 PM
I am looking to purchase a home off of 154 and I have been considering it since before I even knew of a starship coming to the area. Having a starship in the area makes buying my new home way more exciting!! OH and by the way I am a very descent person and will not even consider changing my mind on my purchase because of one store even if I didn't like it.
Posted by FELICIA WALLEY at 9:18 PM
Times-Herald Poll Starship-462 CCC-930 Thanks for your good work Commissioners!
Posted by Tom at 9:03 PM
I just wanted to say that I totally get what you are saying if that was the case in this county, but look at our economy in the last 2 1/2 years. The "DECENT" people so you call them are gonna be here......I have worked in the housing industry for over 6 years, and the non-decent people "STILL USING YOUR TERMS" cannot especially now days get financing for the housing Coweta County has in most of it's admired neighborhooods. A STORE is not going to change this. If the people are decent in the area which in my mind they are,they will probably at one time used a product either from the store or one like it to enjoy their spouse......! "Duh" is what you should say to yourself...Not a name to call yourself. People who are not financially stable enough to live here in reality can't.....It's reality. It's our Econmy....
Posted by SB (Shannah Baker) at 8:53 PM
I could not have said it better myself!
Posted by FELICIA WALLEY at 8:51 PM
THANK YOU COMMISSIONERS! Keep up the good work!
Posted by Jason at 8:34 PM
I know this probably won't get posted, but I'm going to give it a try. I'm tired of people saying how terrible Old Nat'l. got when Starship arrived. That area got bad when there was a color change in the neighborhoods. Plain and simple! Starship had nothing to do with it. Same with Clayton County.
Posted by Just one opinion at 8:28 PM
I was wondering if anyone was concerned about this store being so close to schools and daycare centers? If the county hadn't allowed them to set up shop here in coweta county, we wouldn't have this discussion.
Posted by gayle at 8:26 PM
I think Starship should be able to open in Newnan. It's high time we got with the times. If someone doesn't want to look at it, then simply turn your head!! It's 2009 let's get with it people!
Posted by KH at 8:21 PM
My family is standing with the Commissioners. We are grateful that they have the guts to stand behind what they believe is in the best interest of the community. We struggle each day to protect our 4 young sons and daughter from the bombardment of things that lie outside God's plan for their lives. Thanks to the Commissioners for helping us as we parent.
Posted by Jason Headley at 8:19 PM
separation of church and state. Thats all that needs to be said. There's no real reason why star ship shouldn't get their license. What's next we can't drink soda b/c the mormon think it pollutes your brain, or i can't buy rated R films b/c They may have breast and bloo.
Posted by Adam at 8:18 PM
C.L.A. What's the name and address of your church? I'd like to know so I can come Sunday wearing a Starship t-shirt and be judged by those who claim it's a sin to judge others.
Posted by Dave at 8:04 PM
Has anyone else noticed that big brother is slowly taking our rights away from us one small step at a time. Now they are trying to govern what I do in my bed room with my wife. This is going too far!!! The role of the goverment be it local,state, or federal is not to police my morals, They are here to keep law and order not tell me what I have to believe, how I should raise my children, what foods I can eat or what god I should pray to. Nor should they have the power to control such things. The real purpose of control is power; power over others. Knowing that political leaders seek control over us should not surprise us, for government is an evolutionary thing and usually evolves towards more control. The churches are here to give moral guidance and support not be the moral police either. As your rights are taken away eventually something you like or care for will be taken away. Rember prohibition? Even Jesus had a glass of wine. Once all the righs of FREE people are gone then who will you cry to?
Posted by Nathan Richards at 7:28 PM
I couldn't care less whatever percentage of Starship's stock is not sex-related -- I still wouldn't be caught dead in there, and I bet the majority of people around here feel the same way. Once the novelty wears off, and the kids shift their rebellious frenzy to some other issue, Mr. Rogers may find this isn't the most profitable location.
Posted by CM at 7:19 PM
Dry county... LOL no liquor or lub.... This is a joke. I am backing Starship all the way...
Posted by JT at 7:12 PM
Yes, some of us do care what others think about us when it comes to our reputation. When someone is opposed to this type store and this type lifestyle, as many of us here are, then we would not want to give any false impression that we are exiting from said store. Depending on how you leave Rite Aid, you could potentially leave that open for debate among passersby. Seeing that many here insistent that most opponents are actually consumers, I would never take that risk. So, yes, I do believe Rite Aid has a stake in this and yes, I do care what others think when it comes to my reputation.
Posted by Peri Parker at 6:58 PM
Poor Baby. You did too. The herbal shops don't have a list of " ILLEGAL WORDS" posted inside their store because everything in there is legal. Go into starship and look on the counter or ask for a list of words that you can not say inside the store. If everything is so legal inside why are you sensored about certain things?
Posted by Never Again at 6:57 PM
Where is the Starship church? Are they selling Starship T-shirts?
Posted by Gotta know at 6:36 PM
After fully reading ever single comment on this board, someone earlier made a VERY valid suggestion. Instead of this county wasting taxpayer money on a case that we are sure to lose (because it's ridiculous, why don't the commissioner's design a special tax for Starship (and any business that sells questionable materials such as the drug paraphernalia) to generate some actual revenue instead of spending it on some bogus lawyer to create a ordinance that is obviously not going to apply to the current situation due to grandfathering. Geesh... let the store open and stop wasting our time and money.
Posted by Coweta Co. Resident (PRO STARSHIP!) at 6:28 PM
This is easy. In your initial post that we are talking about you said the AG had commented. He has not. His spokesman has. They are not the same person. I hope that helps as you seem to be having a hard time with this.
Posted by Adam Reuter at 6:23 PM
Im sorry if you are mistaken but i never once stated that I had any intention of doing so. I was commenting about turning people away from Church. I have not mocked anyone. My comment regarding 'suits' has to do with those (in the County) who believe if you are not reading the NKJ and wearing a suit you are not at 'real church'.
Posted by Adam Reuter at 6:22 PM
I think the community should have a say regarding the opening of this store. Personally, I love our county, we are already growing too fast. Starship can move their dirty business up to the city, they are more tolerant there. Can't buy alcohol but we can have Starship. Makes perfect sense to me...NOT. Coweta prides itself with family values and this store does not fit the image that makes me love living here. I'll be more than happy to help them pack, no throw their garbage in the truck and point them north. I don't want to explain to my grand kids the type of store next to Rite Aid when stopped at the red light.
Posted by Angie Moore at 6:16 PM
Why is everyone worried about the value of their houses going down because of Starship opening in Thomas Crossroads? The closest house is on 154 south of 34 and is a half a mile or more away. Of course not to mention the house is for sale as potential commercial property. So for all those worried about your home value, focus on your neighbor who keeps trying to sell their house for commercial development.
Posted by Oscar Valerious at 6:08 PM
Church is a place to fellowship in Christ and Glorify Christ- not Starship. It is Come as You Are. HOWEVER, It is Not come to Church to Mock Christians or people who do not agree with you. Church is to be respected, and Threatning to wear a Starship T-Shirt to Church to make fun of or bring attention to yourself in any way disrespects God is not OK. Suits have nothing to do with salvation - it is what is in your heart that counts. If you think so much of yourself as to mock God's Church in a Starship T-Shirt in hopes of making some kind of statement to other humans; and at the same time bringing Glory to Mr. Rogers- You are lost. Read the Bible. My prayers are with you.
Posted by C.L.A. at 5:54 PM
So, you're going to "ban" all the ribbed condom sales over the county. Ok, see how many illegitate babies we, the taxpayers will be raising soon. Those weekend sexed up teenagers that are depending on purchasing condoms at the local truck stop should make you think how archaeic you are acting!!
Posted by Suzanne at 5:44 PM
Just woundering how come my eary posting was not put on the site. It was clean, but i guess it upset you, it must of been right. That's o.k, it lets me know what kind of paper the Times runs.
Posted by Matthew at 5:41 PM
Adam, have you ever worked for a state law enforcement agency? I get if you don't agree with the AG's representative, but just because he's not the actual AG doesn't mean that he's off message. He's paid to be on message- that's what a spokesperson does.
Posted by Pepe at 5:41 PM
Billy Powell from Lynard Skynard said, "Kelly Rogers is Good People!"
Posted by redneck at 5:41 PM
The new law says, "Distribute. To sell, rent, lend, or transfer possession of or title to." I went on-line and read the four pages of our new obscenity ordinance.I would advise everyone to do so. There is a link provided on-line through the NTH under "Links of interest" Welcome Starship!
Posted by LOL at 5:35 PM
Hopefully, this will display- but for those who are concerned with statistics (Citizen) - some beginner places to look are the Pink Cross Foundation and Shelley Lubben's site. For the Pro-SS-ers- please don't divert the argument by throwing blanket accusations of hypocrisy on the opposition. I don't have cable tv, I do try to live according to my principles,I am not invoking God in the argument. There is genuine concern for property & families. Just like cities that oppose Wal-Mart (they don't invoke God), last I knew people had the right to voice their case. According to some, if you stand up for your values in your own neighborhood- that makes you a Bible-thumper and extremist. Just sounds like a way to bully dissenters into silence.
Posted by Katie B. at 5:27 PM
I may be your relative, your friend, a co-worker. I may have helped you today and been kind to you. I may be wealthy, giving tons of money to local charities or employing thousands of Coweta residents. I may be poor or widowed. You don't know who I am. I would like for the comments section to stay, but unless some people use some self control, we will once again lose this forum.
Posted by Coweta Gal at 5:25 PM
The next best thing to DAYS OF OUR LIVES is DAYS IN COWETA COUNTY! When is it going to air again? I don't want to miss it!
Posted by Jane at 5:22 PM
And he has lost many cases just like this. Costing some communities HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS of dollars.
Posted by Adam Reuter at 5:18 PM
Did you know that our "Expert" atty, Scott Bergthold, representing "Our" rights as county residents has his office located in Chattanooga, TN which is 5.79 miles from the nearest Starship store located in East Ridge Tennessee??????
Posted by Slinky at 5:05 PM
Why do we have to keep dealing with everyone telling us what to do? You won't go to Rite Aid fearing that someone thinks your coming out of Starship? LOL!!! That's sad that you care what people think about you. Starship opening is not going to bring the county down, the people will do that. Do you not read the incident reports that are on Times-Hearld?
Posted by Newnan resident at 5:01 PM
I disagree with the comment from “concerned citizen” regarding the supposed inept county manager and attorney. I don’t know enough about their abilities to make an informed comment. Nor will I make an uninformed comment; there are enough of those here without me adding to them. However, I will comment about putting blame on them. Their responsibilities include advising and recommending to the Board. If the manager and attorney, or any other county employees, are inept, it’s the Commissioners’ responsibility to remedy the situation. The manager and attorney did not vote on the ordinance; the Commissioners did. That’s where the buck stops. And another informed comment concerns the difference between Coweta County and the City of Newnan. Several, but not all, comments about Newnan seem to assume that 1) Starship is within the Newnan city limits and/or 2) the ordinance was adopted by the Newnan City Council. (I don’t know how the Council would have voted; it’s irrelevant to me in this case.) So let’s all say together: “the proposed Starship location is in unincorporated Coweta County and the ordinance was adopted by a vote of the Coweta County Board of Commissioners”.
Posted by commenter at 4:53 PM
It makes me sad to know that you belong to a Church that would kick people out that may need Christ. I understand showing respect, but I also understand 'come as you are'. I wasn't aware that Christ only preached to those in suits.
Posted by Adam Reuter at 4:49 PM
Ok, this is the way I see it. People who don't believe in God aren't trying to ban the people who don't believe in God. People who don't agree with drinking aren't trying to ban drinking or the people who do it. As far as the so called drug use items sold in the store, people are going to buy or make things to used drugs any ways so that really shouldn’t be an issue. Also the pipes and other items sold in the store are listed to be used with tobacco products and there is no way to make sure that is what they are being used for, much like any other items sold anywhere else. And when it comes to explaining to your children about the store all you should have to say is that it is an ADULT store and there are things that aren’t appropriate for them at their age. Nothing more is needed to be said. They don’t need any explanation about what is sold there or anything else. If you don’t want it to be made a big deal to where to children ask about it stop making it a big deal now so the kids hear it mentioned all the time and more than likely won’t think anything about it. There for unless your child rides down the road asking about every store you pass then they shouldn’t think anything about it, and if they do, they must have heard it mentioned with all the talk about it being bad and trashy. That leaves the adults that are making it a big deal to blame, not the people who put the store there. So by trying to state the reasons why it shouldn’t be here you are just giving it more publicity to the people who don’t know anything about what starship is and in a way you are defeating the purpose of wanting to keep people out and are possibly putting curiosity in their heads, and maybe even your children so think about what your are doing and think about if it is really worth all the hassle. I personally have been in a Starship and see nothing wrong with it. If you don't like it don't go in there.
Posted by for starship at 4:48 PM
Separation of church and state is a political and legal doctrine that government and religious institutions are to be kept separate and independent from each other!!! seriously what year are we living in here? This is insane, and why tell this man he can bring his business here and then change the law after he's been ok'd to do so, Is this even legal!!!!
Posted by what year are we living in? at 4:48 PM
The new law says that sex toys can't be sold in Coweta County, but they can be given as a gift!! Mr. Rogers, I'll buy a pack of gum from you for $24.95 if you throw in a free toy as a GIFT!!!
Posted by Cpnnie at 4:44 PM
The new ordinance is absolutely ridiculous people need to stop getting into stuff that does not concern them what so ever if you don’t use this kind of stuff then you would not be going in to the stores or down the aisle or even to the parties that have this kind of stuff so why would you even go this far to make it where people that do cant do so. If I were the owner of starship I would sue this county for all I could. On the other hand why would anyone want to take away something that could bring more tax money to the county with the economy the way it is all business right now is good busy.
Posted by jessica at 4:43 PM
I am a consultant for a company that does in home parties. So are the police going to come and arrest me every time I do a party. These parties are in the privacy of someone's home not in public. Although I will still shop at Starship too just to give them some support. Well I have a party to go to so come and arrest me.
Posted by katie at 4:39 PM
So what if they sell detox drinks. Have you ever been to the Herb Shop thats just a mile down from the Starship location? They sell the same thing there. Maybe you should research your facts before you make a complete fool outta yourself. Oh wait... You already did that.
Posted by Kassie at 4:39 PM
Why do the have to open up here in Coweta County? Or even at Thomas Crossroads? They are right across from a church, next door to Rite Aid. Rite Aid needs to get involved and protest it as well, I won't go there anymore for fear of someone thinking I am coming out of Starship. Starship will only bring the county down and I also don't want to explain to my children why they can't go into that store.
Posted by Kelly at 4:38 PM
For everyone bothered by the fact that starship may have drug "novelty" Pipes. Please keep in mind our average crack and meth addicts are not going to pay the price for such items as they might carry at Starship. Rest assured Coweta Counties derelicts will still manage just fine building their own paraphernalia at home with ingenuity that would make nasa proud. I mean really why spend that sort of money that could help finance their drug habit? Have any of you actually taken a look around our fine city? We have gangs, drugs, and we are surrounded by crime. No I am not going to take time from my job in a failing economy for anything other than illness or death! It is not a good excuse it is a great one. If I loose my job I am sure there are 50 people willing to take it for less money. Anyone taking a day from work to protest this needs their head examined.
Posted by Mom at 4:30 PM
Stop whining about the Starship opening. Nobody is making you people shop there. Also as far as your property values decreasing, that is ridiculous. Why don’t you all look at the foreclosures which is dropping your property value not the Starship opening. I’d worry more about our local government taking our rights from us.
Posted by Local Coweta Resident at 4:20 PM
I went on-line and read the four pages of our new obscenity ordinance. I would advise everyone to do so. There is a link provided on-line through the NTH under "Links of interest" Welcome Starship!
Posted by LOL at 4:18 PM
And the Lord said judge not least ye be judged. Coweta County Board of Commissioners and all those who pass judgement, I hope and pray that you don't have any skeletons in your closet...........and before you reply, take a good close look at what you are about to type. I'm not watching, HE IS.
Posted by Cheech & Chong at 4:09 PM
Interesting observation Lee. You wouldn't let your children within miles of the people who frequent that store...hmmm...do you really know who actually frequents those stores? I am sure there are a few of your commissioners that do...unbeknownst to you. That's why our private lives are private. You shouldn't know. I am going to assume that you are an upstanding citizen with no criminal record...well...so am I. My spouse is quite yummy and I choose to spice up my marriage in a variety of ways...my decision. If I met you on the street you would never be able to tell where I choose to shop. "Those" people you are referring to are actually everyday people. They are certainly not deviants and I really resent being that "assumed" type of personality. You don't know me.
Posted by L at 4:05 PM
Oh BTW, I have lived in Newnan for about 5 yrs now. I live in a nice subdivision nearby, and have seen living proof (destruction of property) that the sign wont last very long lol. Rednecks of Coweta will take target practice on the sign weekly I feel sure.
Posted by jacked at 4:02 PM
If no one has heard. The Lynard Skynard family lost a member today. We lost our brother, Billy Powell. God Speed. He would want a Starship to open. Raise your lighters to Freebid.
Posted by rock n roll angel at 3:57 PM
In response to sue em kelly, The value of property in Clayton county goes up when the doughnut light flashes at the Krispy Kreme, don't compare Coweta and how its run to Clayton county please. Clayton is an example of surrounding counties of how NOT to run a county. I am against the store in its current location but I have to say I grew up in south fulton county and Old National Highway was long gone before Starship came there, it was a pizza place when the great white flight happened In south fulton county. And we don't want to see coweta and fayette repeat the mistakes of Clayton and SF counties.
Posted by jacked at 3:56 PM
You're the one who brought up the number game! So maybe you should answer your own question.
Posted by Newnan resident at 3:46 PM
Aka, Are you a tool of the times herald or just a tool? I do not need another daddy so mind your own business! Deal with that, bud!!!!
Posted by Hammy at 3:43 PM
What Church do all of you "Christians" go to that would be so impressed by you wearing a Starship shirt ? Talk is Cheap...If your Pastor (s)is OK with you wearing a Starship shirt in God's house- Then certainly the name of your Church and it's pastor (s) would not mind you naming names...I would really like to know which Churchs in this county are supporting Starship. You and your other "Christians" are so confident- give it up ! If you walk in my Church wearing a Starship shirt, you will be kindly escorted out the door.
Posted by C.L.A. at 3:41 PM
What do the Facebook groups have anything to do with the Starship? Do you know how many people have Facebook in the world? How do you even know all of these member's are even Coweta County residents? I, myself, do not have a Facebook. Does that mean my opinion in this situation does not matter? Get forreal and quit basing this on member's of a group and base it on how many people have posted comments saying they are for the Starship vs. the people who are not. If you can comprehend correctly, you will see that 80% are for vs. the 20% that are not...
Posted by Jessica at 3:38 PM
Since Donna posted that she "...[d]on't care what he costs. I'll pay it to get this creep out of town." Please make your checks payable to the Coweta County Tax Commissioner's office listed as funds for "Starship defense fund" because the County Commissioners would pocket your check.
Posted by Lee at 3:37 PM
Yes, there are probably more teens on the Anti-Starship site than the Pro-Starship site simply because there are more than 3 times as many supporters on the Anti-Starship site altogether. So, what is your point?
Posted by Peri Parker at 3:23 PM
i really didnt care if starship was in newnan or not, but after reading this i want them to open. how can a county tell me if i can have a "party" in my house or not. i called the commisioner in my area and he told me i should have voiced my opinion at the meeting. i explained i had no opinion then!! so i will support starship in every way!!!!!
Posted by kat at 3:22 PM
Seriously? One is a lawyer, the other is a mouthpiece
Posted by Adam Rueter at 3:18 PM
Pam if you passed by the Starship and didn’t see it then you might want to invest in glasses. And maybe your children don’t read but mine do. I also value their safety and don’t want the kinds of people that go to Starship within miles of them.
Posted by lee at 3:17 PM
Who cares how many people are in the Facebook groups. Last time I checked that's not how commissioners base their decisions. I didn't realize that is how democracy is run in Coweta. **Eyeroll**
Posted by Pepe at 3:10 PM
I have a simple question-for all you people who are against Starship opening: How do you know so much about what is actually in the store? Only somebody who has actually been in one would know that much info.
Posted by Lori at 3:06 PM
"The supporters for Starship where not there today because they are at work making a living to support their families without the help of the US or State government." Posted by Mom at 2:28 PM 1) Where vs. were 2) That has to be the lamest comeback E.V.E.R.
Posted by Pepe at 3:03 PM
This is ridiculous pettiness. I, personally, do NOT appreciate a city/county or any form of gov't telling ME what is or is NOT good for me. Hopefully, this guy will be able to open his store. Until then, I'll just continue to drive into Atlanta and make a fun day of shopping out of it.
Posted by C. at 2:58 PM
Readers, please understand comments posted entirely in ALL CAPS will be deleted. Read the Comments FAQ for more details on posting comments.
Posted by Moderator at 2:56 PM
This is in response to Hammy's comment that Starship sells "bongs, pot pipes, drug stash boxes and baggies used by drug dealers to package CRACK." Maybe you don't know this but there is a gas station (which will remain nameless) on Temple Ave that sells jewelry bags (crack baggies), tobacco pipes/oil burners (pot/crack/meth pipe), and food scales (yeah right). Anyone can walk into that gas station and get it. So that kind of "stuff" is already being sold in a location with no age limit to enter. At least you have to be 18 to enter Starship and you do get carded. It's been a while since I've been in one but if my memory is correct I do believe customers while in the store are not allowed to refer to any novelty item in there as a "bong", "pot pipe", "crack baggie", etc. If you are heard referring to the items as such you are asked to leave the store. If you read the arrest log the drug dealers have been in this county for a long time. Starship isn't going to enable the drug dealers anymore than that gas station does.
Posted by franklin hwy at 2:51 PM
What you all fail to realize is that we are already turning into an Old National or Jonesboro because there are too many vacant buildings. Start complaining about that not 1 store that wants to open. and to all the "church going folks" if you don't want the store then stay out of it. I think that the ones that fight it the most are probably the ones with a basement sex dungeon and they don't want their secrets exposed.
Posted by D.A at 2:48 PM
I guess all the people that are worried about their children seeing a sign don't have cable television in their homes. This is crazy. If you don't want to see it, don't go there and open the door. If you don't want it in your home, don't buy it. It's a very simple solution. If nobody has noticed, there are far more concerns in this community today than one store. We need to worry about more important issues.
Posted by SD at 2:42 PM
I think you need to look at facebook. There are more teenagers in the anti-starship group than the pro-starship one. And I would've been at the last meeting had I not been sick!
Posted by Newnan resident at 2:37 PM
I don't care what he costs. I'll pay it to get this creep out of town.
Posted by Donna at 2:35 PM
The supporters for Starship where not there today because they are at work making a living to support their families without the help of the US or State government.
Posted by Mom at 2:28 PM
After speaking with Al Smith, the Admin office, the finance office, the county clerk, and finaly the county Atorney it has been confirmed that we are paying Bergthold $250/hr.(but no one knows how many hours) He has lost MANY of these cases around the country, making him a fortune.
Posted by Adam Reuter at 2:23 PM
Can we just let things progress as they do? God is the one and only true judge so what will be, will be. I was brought up in a southern baptist church family with a preacher for a grampa and a church music minister for my daddy. Butt out of my personal life commisioners. I WILL go to Starship WHEN it opens and get some toys & candles for my wonderful hubby and me! I would like to be a fly on the when you try to make Walmart, Target, CVS, etc. stop selling "warming lubricants" and "ribbed" condoms. : )
Posted by Proud Southern Baptist!!! at 2:15 PM
If this isn't an adult store, I agree with another poster, he needs to remove "adult" from the signs. Also, if it's not an adult store, I assume anyone of any age will be able to enter?
Posted by Tiffany at 2:11 PM
What is Coweta County doing? Why am I over in Iraq Fighting for other's rights when our own government keeps taking away ours. I thought Iraq was bad about Sexualy explicit materials; it sounds to me like the commissioners are trying to turn Newnan into Bagdad or maybe Kabul. Way to go Coweta County! Nice Job!
Posted by John Bacon at 2:11 PM
Doing a quick search on Mr. Bergthold (the lawyer hired by the city) Johns Creek paid him $238,000, Grand Rapids, MI $70,000, Sioux City,IA $368,000. I am waiting for a call back from the County Clerk to find out how much this is going to cost US
Posted by Adam Reuter at 2:06 PM
Sounds like communism to me, to prevent a business opening because you don't "like it". I dont like many stores should I protest and have them closed?
Posted by Me at 1:58 PM
Granted, neither of us appreciate the protester's with the dolls but what do we do about that? We ignore it; look in the opposite direction. Just like the sign, don't look at it... And you say that it is not the adult material in the store that bother's you, it is the drug related items, but yet, out of all the comments you have posted, all of them are directed toward the "ADULT" aspect of the establishment! Figure out what you are outraged about, get your story straight, then try to state the facts.
Posted by Jessica at 1:55 PM
Why should I have to travel someone else to get these items? I should be allowed to purchase them in the same county I residence in. But, no I have to let the COMMISSIONERS MAKE MY DECISIONS FOR ME JUST BECAUSE OF ONE STORE THAT WISHES TO OPEN!
Posted by Newnan resident at 1:45 PM
I think we should all get Starship T-Shirts and wear them to church this Sunday to show our support for capitalism and Christianity.
Posted by John at 1:40 PM
This is a private board owned by Times Herald. The 1st Amendment does not apply here. deal with it.
Posted by aka at 1:40 PM
Many of you have obviously never been in a Starship. They do not sell the same stuff as walmart and drug stores. Some of the stuff in there would make your eyes pop out. So before you go defending this porno store do some research. I cannot put exactly what they sell in this comment because the moderator will not post the comment. If you think that this is not a hard core porno store you are wrong; it is also full and I mean full of drug paraphanelia. Let's forget about the sex stuff and worry about the drugs drugs drugs. I am in favor of taking the drug pipes out of the convenience stores as well. They are utterly insulting to regular people. Get you gizmos and pipes online like respectable folks do!!!!
Posted by Hammy at 1:36 PM
Why are we spending tax dollars to legislate social behaviors that are the norm. Bible thumping preacher protesters are leading a charge while picking the pocket each week from their "flock". What's the harm with a little adult novelty shop. All this wasted energy and passion only gives this legitimate business stronger publicity and they will win in the long run because it is based on the constitution---remember that little document we believe to be God-inspired. You can't have it both ways---the right to choose means the right to make mistakes as long as it doesn't deny others their rights. Solve some real issues---like real estate, community jobs, etc... Leave this business alone. Focus on our communities real woes. Ugghhh.....
Posted by Joe Citizen at 1:35 PM
Let's think back about Old National Highway and its Starship store. It was opened in 1985 and was originally in the same shopping center/building as the Longhorn Steak House. On any Saturday night you could find many Coweta County folks up there eating (so they could have a drink also). Old National highway was already on the decline with many independent and run down bars and liquor stores. What brought down Old National is not the Starship business. It is the inevitable degeneration of an area where the unemployment rate and the unplanned pregnancy rates are high and the education level is low. Many people then on government assistance and the area gets lots of loitering from the afore mentioned crowd. If you stop the Coweta Starship and continue to interfere with freedoms of business we will get unemployment and the loss of tax revenue (to educate with. AND if you prevent condom sales there will be more unplanned pregnancies and disease than this counties services can handle! We will have spent it all on this issue!
Posted by just telling the truth at 1:34 PM
I don't think this was caused by our commissoners. I think this debacle is the work of a inept County manager and the County attorney. these two positions were hired to advise and manage. the least Coweta County needs to do now is replace these two positions regardless of how this turns out.
Posted by concerned citizen at 1:29 PM
I was going to post a comment,but my daughter,SB,beat me to it.Superb!You go,girl.Iam proud of you.
Posted by Chip Kendrick at 1:28 PM
As Thomas Jefferson stated in 1802..."I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act of the whole American people which declared that their legislature should "make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof," thus building a wall of SEPARATION BETWEEN CHURCH AND STATE." Everyone's religious beliefs are NOT the same, nor are their value systems; therefore it is NOT the right of a person or the government to dictate what is MORAL to anyone else. WE were given the right to Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness! Note that we will not ALL find these things in the same place! The commissioners have WAY over-stepped the legal boundaries in this situation and their "new" ordinance is a total infringement upon ALL of our rights!
Posted by Coweta Resident at 1:27 PM
1. The gas station up the road from my house sells the rose pipes that people use to make meth pipes. Complain to them. 2. Wal-mart, Kroger, Publix, they all sell variety of condoms. Are you complaining to them to? They've been selling these items for YEARS. Why complain now? Most of you against starship are just hypocrites because like I said kroger, and stores like that have always sold these things, and suddenly NOW you are against them..
Posted by Annoyed Citizen at 1:16 PM
If the Starship supporters are so upset because they weren't allowed to attend Monday's supposedly 'surprise' meeting, then please tell me why you all weren't out in force at the last one where it was packed and not everyone could fit inside due to all the ANTI-Starship folks?? There are two groups formed on-line. One PRO-Starship with 177 members (mostly teen/college kids) and one ANTI-Starship with 614 members. There was supposed to be a HUGE organized protest take place today at the courthouse by the Pro-Starship folks at 11:30 when the Channel 11 news people were here. Didn't happen! I think they were all in school. I would venture to say there is much more organized, committed support by those who are AGAINST Starship than there is for it. You can run your mouths here all day but that won't do you a bit of good!
Posted by Peri Parker at 1:08 PM
In case you haven't noticed, children will get the information they want. Now, as a parent, I prefer my children to come to me with ANYTHING they wish to know. If the information comes from me, then I can be assured that my thoughts, ideas and morals are of the utmost influence. Children will still have their innocence...but they still want answers to their questions. If you don't give it to them...they WILL go somewhere else for the answer. You may not like where they go for it.
Posted by L at 1:07 PM
You gotta love how people post and go on and on about how proud they will be to be the first in line and they're going to make t-shirts and wear them to church... and yet they can't even sign their REAL name at the end of the post! ROFL!! (DUH!)
Posted by Duh at 1:03 PM
You really don't realize how it happens? The store isn't going to make us all trashy and immoral... but it is going to cause the decent, moral people to go away. The decent people in this area have already stated they don't want to live near this store and no NEW decent people are going to choose to buy a home near there. Therefore, the whole residental area suffers while commercial businesses nearby will turn LESS FAMILY oriented as well. (Whose gonna come in and intentionally open an ice cream shop or a Chuck E Cheeses right next door to an ADULT store??) It is inevitable and the people who live near there have already expressed these very concerns. We don't want the filth and we don't want the consequences that will follow the filth!
Posted by Duh at 12:57 PM
Like it or not the Supreme Court has ruled that not all porn is legally classified as 'obscene'. This may be contrary to your personal thoughts but thats too bad. According to the LAW, pornography IS protected under the first amendment. We do not live in a Theocracy.
Posted by Adam Reuter at 12:56 PM
While this is not the kind of business I would frequent, I have no issue with those who choose to do so freely. I would submit that Coweta county officials should be more concerned about the dying shopping centers all up and down Bullsboro Drive. Empty strip malls are a blight on the landscape and far more likely to produce crime than the Starship business. Let Cowetans focus on the critical issues at hand, particularly the ones which they can influence.
Posted by Bweav Me! at 12:56 PM
If the attorney is correct and this is NOT an adult store, then who wants to be first to sue Starship for false advertising, since the signs contain the word "Adult"?
Posted by Carolyn at 12:55 PM
I don't have a problem with the toys as much as I do the "Tobacco Accessories" aka: Meth pipe, Bong, etc.. As for the Commission, It was a bit sneaky, but in our best interest. I personally don't want the store or Kelly Rogers as a neighbor.
Posted by GD at 12:54 PM
You sure did offer a lot of statistics, so where did you get the information to support them? C'mon, you should know that you can't go around spewing your opinion and state it as "fact". If it is true, provide the proof! Where is the study that supports it? I also suppose that you think that this one store will cause all of these statistics to rise? Or maybe you think that the new ordinance will miraculously protect our little community from these issues? You are living in a dreamworld!
Posted by Coweta Resident at 12:53 PM
Pay attention! your comment was posted.
Posted by Adam Reuter at 12:53 PM
Mary, you don't "SHELTER" your children? You would explain to your kids the details of pornography and S&M if they asked you? I hope this isn't true. I am always shocked to realize that parents don't consider it their responsibility to shelter their children. Their innocence is a gift from God that only lasts a very short amount of time and you better believe it needs to be protected. (How many of you wish you could go back to that innocent time right now?) I will shelter my kids from sick, perverted trash like Starship offers for as long as I have breath in my body. God says that we should think on things that are pure and true and and innocent and of good report - not filth. God bless the poor kids who aren't given a chance to hang on to the innocence God intended for them to have.
Posted by DB at 12:51 PM
I have inquisitive and highly intelligent children (1 boy and 1 girl). I also have an open relationship with them. Through the years they have asked me many MANY questions realting to the various aspects of sex. I answer these questions, age appropriately, until they are satisfied with the answer. I do not give them short answers and I have sometimes used the phrase "this is for grown-ups and one day the answer will make sense to you". This has satisfied my kids. It shouldn't matter what store it is....perhaps a Victoria's Secret would make you feel better...especially with the pictures of the half-naked models. Kids are certainly welcome in THAT store and the windows are clear so that anyone can see in. Pick your battles people...come on...really. I'll be first in line when it opens...to prove a point...
Posted by L at 12:50 PM
My girlfriends and I are planning a grand opening party. We can't wait to be on YouTube. We're going to make T-shirts that we will wear to church. We've already had to postpone once. If they don't let him open, I hope Kelly Rogers sues. Oh and BTW, I own property in Clayton County that actually improved in value when the Tara store opened. Our commisioners should be embarrassed. I'm truly sick of all the "it's good for you" laws in the this county. As a hard working, church going, VOTING, TAXPAYING citizen of this county I will make my opinions and voice heard during the next election. Open store store already!
Posted by DayZ at 12:48 PM
If you don't think stores like this "type" don't corrupt a community and turn it in to another Old National, etc., then remind yourself of the frog in the pot. What happened? The temp. was turned up so slowly that he never knew it until he was cooked! One store brings another, then another, then liquor stores will be opened up and hard porn/drug para. stores will be next--all before we realize we are "cooked" and ruined as a 'once upstanding community so beautiful and quiet all those from the north came IN DROVES TO LIVE HERE!" If you don't like our quiet, "unchanged" community, move back to where you came from and don't let the door hit you in the behind. And to all you "posted" self proclaimed christians, if you were really one and upheld your foundational beliefs, you, too, would realize this is not the kind of store we want in our neighborhood for crying out loud. Hammy, keep up the good posts!
Posted by L.S. at 12:46 PM
Well we got a mention on Boortz today in the Government outrage portion of the show. Thanks Board of Commissioners for making us all look like backwards rubes.
Posted by JD at 12:45 PM
Now the commissioners are crying that they have been misrepresented in the paper. They need to quit crying and remember everyone's constitutional rights and not someone's perceived religious views. They do not mix, remember the seperation of church and state. So quit crying that the paper got it wrong. They got it right, you are all crooks, bank-handed and backwoods!!! Resign and save us the time it will take to recall you.
Posted by Kick them harder at 12:43 PM
I would just like to point out a couple things. Hammy, you dont explain to your kids about the sign or morals or any of that good stuff. you just say 'its a store for mommies and daddies, like they have stores for kids' stop trying to explain stuff to a small child that is over their head. DB, if the commissioners want to listen to everyone they wouldnt be so sneaky. calling special meetings behind closed doors, passing ordinances after giving the busisness owners the go ahead and talking about the issue when its not even on the adgenda for the evening is wrong. If I and several others had known that this would be talked about we would have been there to speak but it wasnt supposed to be addressed becouse it wasnt on the adgenda.
Posted by S. Walls at 12:43 PM
It is surprising to me that some of these comments are written by very smart adults that seem quite ignorant. One person referred to areas that have such stores as “trashy immoral cesspools” a store does not make an area the people of the town make the outcome of that town. So, basically what you are saying is we will all become trash if we allow the store to be here? I DOUBT THAT! The ordinance that was passed was not thought through clearly and whether or not they want to admit it was strictly targeting Starship! If it weren’t here is what would happen; all of the pharmacies in Coweta County, Rite Aid, CVS, Walgreens and 90% of the convenient stores would be busy taking condoms, lubricant, porn magazines and movies off their shelves….hmmmmm THEY ARE STILL THERE! Also, the comment mentioning of drug paraphernalia (baggies, pipes, etc.) needs to notice those are at our local convenient stores too!!!Some of the stores in Coweta County don’t even have the magazines and movies behind the counter. They are located at the front right near the candy! Isn’t that ironic! Guess I will have to explain to my six year old why a picture of a naked women is near his Skittles! You can’t ban one store and not all of them PERIOD! I just think there is much more in this county to worry about! Lets talk about the drugs, teen pregnancies, robberies etc. Target that! The store is for adults and adults only. If you don’t want to explain to your children what is in the store then don’t. Responsible adults would not tell thier kids what the store was for. Maybe you are the ones who need to go in there the most……SEXUAL FRSTRATION CAN CAUSE STUPIDITY….!LOL
Posted by SB at 12:42 PM
Dear Moderator, Please let the people be heard. Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. thanks
Posted by Hammy at 12:40 PM
Your children would not even know it was a "sex toy" store or "porn" store if you would just hush. We passed by the other day and I had to look for the store. It is down in a valley "sort of" and does not stand out. So you are bringing attention to your children..So thank yourself for that. And if they ask, tell them it's an adult store. That's it. Nothing else. And then ya'll "ACT" adult. :)
Posted by Pam at 12:32 PM
I am glad you are willing to have a full blown sexual conversation with a child. I have a 15 year old who knows exactly what is up. However, I am not going to tell my 5 and 9 year olds a darn thing about this trashy store. Oh by the way, the other stores are FULL of drug dealers buying their supplies so put that in your pipe and smoke it!!!
Posted by Hammy at 12:30 PM
Your right Liberals don't get it, they want to control you in the name of government, but conservatives are no better, they want to control you in the name of god or morality. Give me a break, stay out of my house and out of my pocket. I wish you would get out of my town!!! Move to Meriwether with Reverand Ball, he needs another robot to follow him.
Posted by Disgusted with People like Coweta Gal at 12:30 PM
This is BULL! Obviously the Cowets Board Of Commisioners has nothing better to do than try to dictate how people have sex. This is no one's business! And if they didn.t want starship then they shouldn't have granted a building permit in the first place. THIS IS RIDICULOUS!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by Melissa Harbin at 12:23 PM
Hammy...I'm so glad that you know what is going on with my family ("Clean up your own yard before you come into mine."). My conversations with my kids don't typically involve talking about the details of ANY store, but if they ask I'm not going to shelter them or provide them with unsatisfactory answers. That would only lead them to look elsewhere for answers. Again, it sounds like there are more important issues that need to be dealt with than worrying about a sign.
Posted by Mary at 12:18 PM
These type of buisnesses only lead to the moral destruction of the community it involves. Coweta County doesn't want you here. GET THE POINT ALREADY! Why do you insist on pushing your way in into a nice, quiet, southern community when you know what you're selling is against what they stand for and will tolerate? Why? To answer that for you, NO, you don't have a right!
Posted by L.S. at 12:05 PM
Personally would prefer that they move to a location more appropriate for a business of this nature. Shouldn't the business be located on the side of town in an area where the patrons could walk from their homes,rather than be located across from nice schools and churches and respectable businesses? Also everyone seems to be so focused on the sexual content of the store. What about the drug related "bongs for marijuana, smoking pipes and tubes for crack, and who knows what else will be sold in the store. What is the other 75% of the store items? Are they going to sell trashy clothing that advertises the brand?
Posted by jacked at 12:02 PM
I use to work for this company for ONE day and times-heard refuses to post my comments. Are they on starships payroll too? I just want to give Newnan an inside look to what goes on inside the stores that's all.
Posted by Why not? at 12:00 PM
Adam, porn stores don't exactly rank high on the list of a family values issue with conservatives. That issue supercedes the small business aspect. Your being pro-this store, for whatever reason, supercedes the liberal philosophy that government is going to solve all your problems, therefore bigger government and more regulations the better. Else you'd be on the side of the commissioners. Liberals don't get it. Never have, never will.
Posted by Coweta Gal at 11:47 AM
If parents can lie to children about Santa Clause, Easter Bunny & the Tooth Fairy then they can lie about what's inside an Adult Novelty shop. Give the children the same explanation you give when they ask why movies & games are rated PG, PG 13 ect. It's called parenthood.
Posted by LOL at 11:44 AM
It didn't usually come up in conversation with my young grandsons either,but on Monday it did. Try to explain that to a six and eight year old. What is missing here is MORALS AND VALUES.There are 60,000 lost souls in this county. I pray God will stop this store from coming in here. I am a christian, I love the Lord and stand up for Jesus as he does and always will for all of us.You want find your Treasures in a porn store. God is Great,He is the only way.BELIEVE!!!
Posted by Another business owner in Coweta County at 11:36 AM
Take it from someone that worked at Starship in Atlanta for ONE DAY! This store is not as "nice" as it may seem to be. They sell DRINKS ( detox is what they call them)& PILLS that are used to flush drugs out of your system so that one can pass a drug test. How can you help some one break the law but call your company lawabiding? They also sell "legal weed"; weed is weed. I you can get high what is the differance? I know that the economy is bad but working here can go against everything you beleive in. That why I couldn't finish out 1 shift. Plus I heard taht their turn over rate is soooooooooo high; that it is crazy!!
Posted by Never AGAIN at 11:35 AM
I DO communicate with my kids. But telling them, "It's for mommies and daddies" only opens up the door for more questions since they are inquisitive and intelligent kids. Would you like for me to explain to them about S&M or porn or how about bongs and little plastic baggies used for illegal drug distribution? It is an evil store, that is proven by the fact that even its supporters ADMIT that children should be protected from it.
Posted by DB at 11:33 AM
Good choice on your lawyer that has already lost to Kelly Rogers in Rome. Guess what there is a Starship in Rome!!! Again it is a waste to have these crooks in office. Recall petition is underway. Go Starship, bury the commissioners!!!
Posted by Robert at 11:32 AM
Where in the bible does it say it's a sin to please yourself with a batter operated toy??? it's NOT adultery!!!! If you have a problem with what's in the store then you can solve it easily. . . DON'T GO IN THERE!!! Some people are strongly against alcohol, you don't seem them protesting in the grocery store! no, they just don't go to that section. what's the big deal about having an ADULT novelty store. as far as child go, they are gonna figure out what it is soon or later. it's not like they can go in the store or look in the windows. instead of worry about that store opening why don't we start worrying about more important things, like the ECONOMY!!!!
Posted by Jess at 11:30 AM
I may not ever go shop at Starship, but I totally support their opening....No matter what you argue, it WILL bring revenue into the county. You will have people coming from neighboring counties to shop there, which means they will eat in our food establisments, by our gas, shop at our other stores. And I was under the assumption that we were a capitalist country...which supports small business...I mean, do you ENJOY being compared to a Fascist regime...I thought that by getting rid of Bush, we were getting rid of people telling us what to do and how to live our personal lives, but obviously I was ignorant in thinking that because I didn't take the fact that this county is RUN my EVANGLISITIC CHRISTIANS/Republicans...you can never trust a republican to EVER let you keep your private life, private.
Posted by Hayley39 at 11:30 AM
Santa's attorney says they are not an adult store? Yeah right. Way to go commissioners - whatever needs to be done to keep these type of stores out of here, I'm all for it.
Posted by Coweta Gal at 11:28 AM
Instead of wasting taxpayer money in a legal battle, the county should let Starship open without anymore hassle. Let the citizens of Coweta decide whether Starship is welcome here or not. If enough people don't want it here, they will go out of business before long. Personally, I plan to check it out.
Posted by Mish at 11:25 AM
Everyone has their addictions whether it's pornography, alcohol, drugs, food, gambling, & etc. All have destroyed weak marriages. Don't punish the whole because some can't resist temptation. Welcome Starship!
Posted by LOL at 11:17 AM
give it time. give it time.
Posted by PG at 11:16 AM
The commissioners are not telling you what you can and cannot purchase for use in your own home. The ordinance says that they can't SELL the specified items in Coweta County. You can go anywhere you want that DOES sell them and buy them there.
Posted by PG at 11:14 AM
First of all, the hanging of the barbies is ridiculous. I agree very offensive as well to children. I am interested to hear how I am not supposed to participate in viewing a sign. Please enlighten me. Should I burn my eyes out??? I am not a religious zealot, I have no problem with the items sold in this store other than the drug related items used by junkies and dealers.
Posted by Hammy at 11:02 AM
I love how moderated this board is, I wonder how many legitimate comments (aside from mine) are being blocked out?
Posted by Pilot x at 10:59 AM
i am sorry but communicating with my young daughters does not typically include conversations about the sex toy store across from Chick fil a give me a break. Clean up your own yard before you come into mine.
Posted by Hammy at 10:52 AM
The county commissioners should charge the Reverend Ball and his Merry band a permit fee every time they want to protest something. The county could recover all of the monies that are going to be spent defending their decision against Starship. We all know that the Rev. Ball and his Merry band are always protesting something and somewhere in Coweta county.
Posted by DG at 10:51 AM
I think that the Thomas Crossroads location is perfect for Starship. The public aspect will help deter the closeted perverts and underaged people from trying to shop there. They won't want to be "seen". Instead, only those self confident, consenting adults will be able to patronize the store....Makes sense to me.
Posted by perplexed at 10:49 AM
Very well written. Couldn't have said it better.
Posted by AC at 10:46 AM
GO STARSHIP!!!!!!!!!!!! I can't wait til the doors are finally open!!!!!!! I support Mr. Rogers all the way....
Posted by supporter at 10:43 AM
"because of the simple fact that men love darkness rather than light because their deeds are evil." Tom, really what is your deal? What century do you live in? I do not want this store in the area but come on get a grip. You really need to socialize yourself you have been locked up in the trailer far too long. Live a little bud!!!
Posted by Hammy at 10:42 AM
Anyone that says these signs are not offensive is stupid, huh? I am positive that these small advertisement signs are a lot less offensive than the church crowd hanging babies by ropes on the corner of the bypass. My daughter loves her baby dolls and I know she would get that gesture. I am so sick of all of these "Holly Rollers" trying to push their religous views and antics on everyone else. IF YOU DON'T AGREE WITH SOMETHING, DO NOT PARTICIPATE! Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but it does not allow you to discriminate on other people or businesses because they do not have the same opinion as you!
Posted by Jessica at 10:29 AM
Conservative Answers to Liberal Questions. 1- Conservatives do praise small business- unless those small businesses are injurious. If this were a KKK-surplus store, I'm glad to know that you would be their cheerleader. But since its victims are mostly women & children- I guess they don't matter (Porn is viewed most by ages 11-17, 90% of porn stars use drugs)2.- This is small gov't, we haven't asked the feds for a porn bailout or to create laws for us- this small community is participating in "small" gov't. 3.- Many people feel it is their "personal responsibility" to protect their property values, children, neighborhood. 4.- The commissioners who were "elected" are the people's representatives- though I don't agree with the extent of the recent ordinances- they were answering those they represent. I would love the residents of this district to put it to a vote. Porn Stats- 65% h.s. students have unsafe sex, 66% porn actors have herpes, 90% porn-women have been raped/molested, 25% Americans have herpes. Sounds like a business we should welcome with open arms...and lysol.
Posted by Katie B. at 10:27 AM
The sad thing about this is how this commission decided to "fast-track" this ordinance and came to a unanimous agreement without anyone on the board really standing up and challenging the implications. And nobody on the Starship side was really given any opportunity to mount any discussion or defense. This was all poorly handled and I fear the tax-payers will get the bill for this mess as it goes through the court system....
Posted by Dirk Diggler at 10:20 AM
Adam- "Russ Willard is a 'spokesman' for the AG. He is not the AG" Posted by Adam Reuter at 8:39 AM The spokesman is sworn into that office as well.... What's the difference? He's the mouthpiece.
Posted by Pepe at 10:20 AM
For all of us who want starship, we need to come together and support Mr. Rodgers or these wack-o hippocrits will prevail. Lets starts showing up a commission meetings, calling and emailing our commissioners and letting them know that we want Starship here.
Posted by Me at 10:20 AM
God will judge me not the people of coweta county and mr rogers you have my vote OPEN THAT STORE that store will not hurt anything.or anyone!only you can make your live easy or hard. I have been in one it was very clean and the staff very nice
Posted by sue at 10:16 AM
According to yesterday's comments, $238,000 is the fee paid to the TN attorney (thus far) who was solicited by the Commissioners to write this bogus ordinance. Who is footing this bill? Coweta taxpayers? How much more money is allocated in the fiscal budget for matters such as this?
Posted by Lee at 10:15 AM
First, it is not illegal to have a toy party in your home. It is now illegal to sell the toys...unless it is for educational purposes. There are so many ways around these ordinances - you are all too obsessed with outrage to figure them out! And, all of you Obama supporters - get used to government telling you what you can and can not do in your own home. This is just the tip of the iceburg in our small community. Wait until national policies are put in place!!
Posted by Renee at 10:11 AM
I am so glad to see something has now offended the Wal-Mart preachers. They have been offending me for years, and I am enjoying seeing them squirm. Thank you to Coweta county for insuring the success of Starship in our area. Now all the surrounding areas know exactly where to come for there cheap entertainment during the financial crisis. Does anyone know what sort of grand opening promotions they might be planning? I might suggest a free ribbed condom to the first 1000 customers , or perhaps some minty fresh lubricant .
Posted by Mom at 10:08 AM
Are you kidding me? This is the same reason why nobody but them knew about this meeting. They're just a bunch of cowards! Because I grantee you people who are opposed to this new ordinance would've been there. I am sorry but for someone to tell me what I can bring into my home, is none of YOUR BUSINESS NOR THE COMMISSIONERS! What makes it right? They only change the ordinance because of Starship, and it's ridiculous!
Posted by Newnan resident at 10:08 AM
What actually happened is that in order to keep the overwhelming number of supporters of Starship from dwarfing the small number of religous zealots, the crooked commissioners snuck this violation of my constitutional rights in at the last second and at 3:30 in the afternoon no less. State law states that they can be recalled if they make action that violates the rights of their citizens and that is what they have done. We have already begun the process of recalling the comissioner 2 and 3 on this action and will wait the 180 days for the other 3, I urge others to do so as well in their district. I would give my email address to reach me for information but Times-herald will censor me like they have my 3 other comments stating these facts. As for DB the commissioners have to be very corrupt to actually feel they can violate my rights with this ridiculous ordinance. Not a law or bill as they know that could not be passed. Also why do they get a lawyer from somewhere else to help? Because the counties lawyers know they are crooked and idiots as well.
Posted by Robert at 10:02 AM
PLEASE...by all means we want to hear from the commissioners. But from several accounts yesterday, they're all unavailable to even speak to the residents of this county, people that voted for these people in the last election! These are elected officials- they have a responsibility to speak up and let their position be known instead of passing laws then proceeding to lay low to avoid the backlash. And I hate to break it to everyone, but Newnan became Riverdale Rd. a long time ago-nothing more than 1 long stretch of road full of empty retail buildings.
Posted by Ponsonby Britt at 9:57 AM
Can you be sure that Thomas Crossroads won't become like seedy areas of Atlanta. I'm sure at one time those areas said the same thing but they have become decayed areas. Maybe not all areas experience this but why take the chance. The same ones that are crying about not letting Starship in will be the same ones crying when we try to keep the strip joints out. As far as the owner, he tries to make himself out as an "angel of light" who is going to improve your married life. This is simply not true. He is a seller of pornography, the very thing that has destroyed so many marriages. Are you really prepared for you or someone of your family to potentially become addicted to porn and possibly end up in prison. I know of grieving families where this has happened and wish to God this had never happened. Hindsight is worth far more than foresight. Sure people can find porn somewhere else but I'm not giving my approval to anyone selling this stuff.
Posted by Mike at 9:53 AM
People can be so ignorant as to think that an establishment will destroy our community. If that is the case, then we aren't much of a community at all. When (not if) the Starship business opens, its success or failure will be determined by revenues...not opposer/supporter opinion...the old adage "put your money where your mouth is" will hold true. If enough people don't support the business with their wallet, it won't succeed, but hipocracy and secrecy of meetings is only opening the door to more problems for Coweta County. For those that can't explain the sign to their children...it appears that you have a bigger problem to worry about than Starship opening. Communicate with your kids!
Posted by Mary at 9:51 AM
It was a decision the commissioners made based on "public outcry". The citizens opposing Starship have thousands of petitions and proved their passionate opposition by showing up en masse to tell the commissioners what they wanted. It would be utterly irresponsible (and CORRUPT)for the commisssioners to IGNORE such a public outcry from the majority of citizens in the community they have been elected to serve. They followed the procedure for responding to such a reaction from the public. Someone asked who is pulling the commissioners' strings... well... duh. Like ALL elected officials WE ARE! They work for us to make decisions based on what is deemed best for the community. Based on the evidence provided, the petitions and the staunch outpouring of opposition, they did the only thing they could do. They would have to be very corrupt and not truly concerned with Coweta's welfare to have done otherwise!
Posted by DB at 9:38 AM
When was the last time you checked your teens computer? Have you looked at their "My Space" or do you even know they have one? Take a good look into the computer to find out what they have been googling. Type in "free porn" and see what pops up. Do they have a prepaid visa or mastercard? See what they can buy on line with that.Teens will be teens. It is nothing new. Back in the days before computers teen boys were sneaking peaks at playboy and the girls locker room, now they have the computer and tv. I have a 16 yr old boy and yes I keep up with his computer use. Yes I know he looks at pictures and I don't make him feel dirty about. It is a natural feeling. I do speak very openly about sex and how to respect women with him though and I know he will grow up to be a very good man with a normal healthy sex life. Starship will not change this. My suggestion to all you parents afraid your children will find out about sex-talk to them, they probably know more than you do!!
Posted by Lori at 9:37 AM
great... the county commissioners have made a mess...first they let the owners of starship invest all that money and then say 'we changed out minds, you can't open here' then they pass an ordinance that essentially makes anyone who has an 'intimates' party in their home... a law breaker and subject to prosecution!!! what is this??? the dark ages!!!
Posted by Melissa Jones at 9:35 AM
Has a porn shop and it's a great area!
Posted by LOL at 9:33 AM
DID YOU KNOW ? According to an article written in the Newnan Times Herald: Rogers lives in Coweta and " Rogers also likes to play Santa Claus for parties and at various nursing homes." This is so twisted.
Posted by C.L.A. at 9:30 AM
It is sad that the "good 'ole boys" mentality still rules this town. The commissioners' side of the story must have not had much validity since the meeting was handled so expeditiously! When the Commissioners are up for election, I hope everyone remembers their antics regarding this matter. It makes one wonder how many other issues are handled the same way?
Posted by Lee at 9:24 AM
Those of you who think kids are not affected by that disgusting sign are stupid. I am sure a pre-k child my not notice but they will soon enough. I really appreciate Starship causing me to explain to my 9 year old daughter what is an adult novelty. Thanks a lot no really thanks
Posted by Hammy at 9:21 AM
This store does not only sell sex toys and the like. It sells bongs, pot pipes, drug stash boxes and baggies used by drug dealers to package CRACK. Go check out another location. I could careless about the sex items. I do not want to enable drug dealers. Believe it this store does enable drug dealers. Also, please check your grammar and spelling, this board reads like a bunch of ignorant uneducated idiots live in coweta county.
Posted by Hammy at 9:17 AM
I am a Christian but I am ALL FOR SARSHIP. I will also be there when the doors open. What my husband and I use in the bedroom is not anyones business and it should be perfectly legal for me to purchase items such as what starship sells in ANY COUNTY to use in the privacy of my own home! This is rediculous. I was really looking forward to only being one minute away from the new store instead of having to go to Old National. Oh and the new laws are CRAZY. I am raising my boys to use condoms,if such thing were to happen which we all know it will eventually (I don't care what kind just as long as they use one) and now they will get in trouble for having one. HOW STUPID IS THAT.
Posted by Felicia at 9:10 AM
I am sorry to say but the Newnan Times Herald isn't that great of a paper!
Posted by Newnan resident at 9:08 AM
Lets look at this a different way. Is it possible to have NOT passed this crazy ordinance and maybe passed a special tax on this type of store. If your business is willing to pay this additional tax to our county then you can open. I can see how that would have helped Coweta county. Also could there not be ordinances on the landscaping and the appearance of this tyoe of business to help camoflauge it. Just a thought.
Posted by new view at 9:05 AM
because of the simple fact that men love darkness rather than light because their deeds are evil. It's not time to fight in court. It's not time for silly preachers to be screaming at people. It's time to repent and turn to the Lord because he's coming soon.
Posted by tom at 9:00 AM
Please stop comparing us to Old National, Metropolitian Pkwy or any other seeedy side of Atlanta!! This one store is not going to make us into that because those areas have the hard core adult stores and strip clubs not just an adult novelty store. There is a big difference! It will not have the "back room" or peep shows it will just sell adult novelties. The citizens of Coweta County will never let a strip club locate here, I am positive of that! And everyone keeps asking "what do I tell my children when I drive by?" I seriously doubt the kids will even notice, but if they do you tell them the same thing you tell them when they ask what a tampon is, or see a condom box in the store or on TV, or ask where babies come from, "that is something for adults only and not for kids". Stop using kids as a means to express your disapproval.
Posted by Angela at 8:55 AM
I would like to ask all of the conservatives here: What ever happened to praising the small business owner? What happened to small government? What happened to personal responsibility? What happened to keeping the government out of our lives? I thought these were things you stood for.
Posted by Adam Reuter at 8:46 AM
The rich get richer and the poor get poorer. Look at this attorney from TN. I think Coweta picked him because he lives so far away! No one can find this man to tell him the facts! Why wouldn't we use someone from Coweta? When kids at school get worse and worse, we can thank Coweta Commissioners for spending all of OUR money on something so stupid and exporting OUR money to another state.
Posted by Sammy at 8:44 AM
You say "If you want to have your sex party at home - GO FOR IT!" Were you not paying attention? It is now illegal. If someone has a party like that in their own home, they can be put in jail for 6 months!
Posted by Adam Reuter at 8:44 AM
Russ Willard is a 'spokesman' for the AG. He is not the AG
Posted by Adam Reuter at 8:39 AM
This 1 store is not going to turn the entire county of Coweta into Old National, Tara Blvd, Central Ave or any other areas that have been mentioned. When you or your children were hanging out in front of K-mart, or Target, or any other business, did it run the business down? As stated earlier, you can purchase all of this stuff at drugstores and bookstores. Now it's just going to be convenient like a one stop shop. Save on time and gas. Let the man open up his business and if you must drive by the store, cover your eyes :)
Posted by Nicole at 8:38 AM
Mr. Rogers, You should have done some market research because that location hasn't been able to keep a profitable business yet, i.e; Hardware store, Auto repair shop, Health club, etc... I personally do not want Starship there, but the fact this commision went behind the people's back and cowardly drafted a new ordinance does not bode well with me. This new ordinance is outrageous and stinks of "Big Brother"!! Soon Billy Ball will be coming to your house to make sure you don't have a sex toy!
Posted by Dave at 8:36 AM
Mr. Rogers must have bought stock in the Newnan-Times Herald. It use to be a great paper. Now it is only free advertisement for Starship and alot of one sided stories. They must not have thought that the hundreds of people at the meeting on the 20th was as news worthy, but what paper does now days.
Posted by Family at 8:35 AM
Most of the lifelong residents of Coweta County do not want their nice family-oriented home to have the adult stores and liquor stores. The ones of you who are transplants came here because of the beauty and family atmosphere of Coweta. YOU left the pornography and the alcohol - now why do you want to turn our beautiful home into the trashy place you left? Leave us alone..if one store opens..so will another..so will another..then we'll be Old National Hwy..stop the madness now.
Posted by Gail at 8:35 AM
I hope the store is open soon. I support you all the way.. Yeah!!!! Go Mr. Rogers!!!
Posted by supporter at 8:34 AM
Everyone is worried about what the area is going to turn into. Well have any of you visited Pidgon Forge? Great place and fun, but were you aware that there is a "Full Blown Porn" store in the mix of it all, and guess what it has not affected the area and I but many of those who are against "Starship" have visited Pidgon Forge and will continue to visit that area. To me it is what we as a community make of the situation, and right now some in the community are creating a bigger issue out of things that what it really is. The county commissioners are actually assisting in getting Starship what they want at our (the tax payers) expense. The more we bicker abou it, the more public it becomes, the more people want to visit to see what it is all about. In the end the County Commissioners and those opposed have enabled Starship to build a clientel by making a public specticle out of this issue. THERE LIES YOUR PROBLEM. Let it be people, the more "free" advertising they get, the more traffic you will see. Because in the end we all know that they will be in business and that we the tax payers will loose money that could have been used to combat homelessnes, illeteracy, starvation, joblessness, drug trade, and other more pressing isssues. GET A GRIP PEOPLE. Stop waisting our TIME & MONEY.
Posted by Cheech & Chong at 8:31 AM
I own a small business a block from this store. I do not want this kind of business in our area. Please do the right thing and go away quietly. Im sure your business will do very well somewhere else. JUST NOT THOMAS CROSSROADS.
Posted by No way at 8:30 AM
If you are so embarrassed then leave!! You aren't to embarrassed to take peoples money into your business are you? This is a great county to live in.What you need to understand is everybody has a right to their own opinions. Respect my as I do yours.
Posted by Another business owner in Coweta County at 8:30 AM
What is obscene is how the county and it's officials think and operate! Your time and our tax money wasted on this matter is OBSCENE and REDICULOUS!! Hopefully, you ALL will be voted out! Talk about making and breaking the rules as you go along????? You guys are REDICULOUS!! Do you realize what a laughing stock you are making of yourselves and our community? And you call yourselves "PROFESSIONALS"? "IDIOTS" is more like it!
Posted by AMAZED at 8:28 AM
You people really are pathetic. All of this complaining about a stupid sign for your kids to see, I can bet you money that they learn more at school that those signs can reveal. I am a mother and a christian, I got to church every Sunday and I no problem with this store. It says no where in the bible that two MARRIED, CONSENTUAL ADULTS cannot spice up their love life. You have to do something to keep your marriage alive! And who are you to judge anyone that walks into that store? Where does "judgement" fall into this? I am pretty sure that the only one that can judge me is GOD. I'm with Wes, get off of your golden ticket and worry about more important issues! Like everyone was saying yesterday, if you don't like the store, DON'T GO IN! We will know what the people of Coweta really want after the store opens. They didn't ask the majority of us....or else there wouldn't be as much controversy....
Posted by Jessica at 8:24 AM
The people who are against Starship are the same people who made this ridiculous ordinance pass! How dare you tell me what I can purchase and bring into the privacy of my own home? I work, pay taxes, and do everything that I am suppose to do. Unfortunately, the County probably will be sued and then everyone's tax money will be spent on this.
Posted by Newnan resident at 8:24 AM
i hope the county gets sued till they are broke, what right do they have to take my first amendment away and to pass an ordinance with little notice so that everyone can be prepared hope yall are ready to have your property tax tripled to pay for the law suits that are comin....
Posted by nathan at 8:20 AM
For you information, there is a Starship located on Sugarloaf Parkway. And it's in a good area!
Posted by Newnan resident at 8:19 AM
Finally I have to say....use what ever means to get them out. I am willing to fight till the end so that store does not open. If you want that stuff fine just drive to the areas that sell it, just don't bring it to my hometown. Thank you commissioners for listening to the people who live here. It is your job to work for the people and that is what you have done. All the people on this site that don't live here your comments do not matter. This is my hometown, and I will help to fight any way that needs to be fought.
Posted by Kris at 8:15 AM
To all of you who continue to write in as though some one has suggested having sex is a bad thing - just stop. That is not even close the issue. People who are opposed to this store, enjoy sex just as much as anybody else. Also, If you want to have your sex party at home - GO FOR IT! BUT opening a Starship across from a church and in a popular family area, (if it must open) is the problem. Location, location, location. Also, this whole argument about jobs is a JOKE. If you work there, Your resume will be a joke too. Is Mr. Rogers going to employ all of you jobless folks ? I applaud each of you who are standing up against this - it is time we start pushing back.
Posted by C.L.A. at 8:11 AM
It is not only the bible pushers that don't want this store here, it is other people too. Also no one cares what you do in your bedroom it is not about that. We have toys in our house as well that does not mean that we are bad people, however I do not want this store in my area. so please stop saying all the bible pushers because I am not one of them and I am tired of everyone thinking that they are the only ones that don't want it here.
Posted by pm at 8:10 AM
You know, I honestly don't see how this guy will stay in business long at all. I am AGAINST the store opening, but I am SICK of hearing about it. It will go under soon enough.
Posted by Jay at 8:09 AM
Wes, plese learn how to write a sentence and spell before posting. Did you go to school in Clayton County ?
Posted by DB at 8:09 AM
It's not only the "church going crowd" the doesn't want this store here, it's also homeowners. So could you please get over the name calling and realizing this is a community issue.
Posted by JC at 8:08 AM
So if the county's new ordinance allows the items to be given away... I say Mr. Rogers should sell a pack of gum for $$ and oh, look at that... the sex toy comes with it for free.
Posted by Chicklet at 8:04 AM
Hey DB...if you are so proud of your commissioners for passing such a ludacris ordinance and wasting our taxpayer money on this nonesense maybe YOU should foot the bill! Starship was given all of the permits for building/remodeling and for his signage...he has a right just as any other citizen to open his business! It has been said a million times, if you do not like the business DO NOT GO IN! As for the kids, I have 2 kids and pass the store daily taking my child to Pre-K...he has never ONCE even noticed the signage, store, etc. If you guys would calm down and stop over reacting about this store your kids would never even notice it's there. If they do you tell them its a store with stuff for mommies and daddies...it's really just that easy! I can tell you that restricting the sale of condoms, even the ribbed ones, is a heck of a lot more damaging then this store. Good luck Starship!
Posted by J at 8:04 AM
Here they go again. Times Herald is censoring comments to be posted on this blog. What are they afraid of? We have the right to post and right to protest.
Posted by rock n roll angel at 8:00 AM
Starship friends unite today at 11:30am in front of the commissioners office to protest these jokers in office. Also, there is a online petition that was created to get these "men" out of office. We need all the signatures we can get
Posted by rock n roll angel at 7:58 AM
Family, you state "we don't want your store here" If that were the case, and WE meant 51% of Coweta County, then the County Comissioner's would not have resorted to slight-of-hand and closed-door meetings to try and stop the store. This is no surprise that Starship wants to open here and they followed the laws in effect at the time they started. You can't change laws and then hold someone to them after the fact. The ONLY reason this ordinance was written was to block one store, and thus we will now spend thousands of tax-payer $$ trying to defend it in court. I would rather have seen that money to go my kids' school or the Sheriff's office; not an attorney from TN!!!!!
Posted by Tom O. at 7:54 AM
Thank you commissioners - we have spoken and you are listening.
Posted by TC resident at 7:44 AM
If I were looking to buy a home in the area of Thomas Cross roads. I would now look else where. It is quiet obivious what kind of store it is just by looking at the storefront. If this store stays you can say goodbye to Coweta County as we know it now. It is an UGLY, UGLY site. If the store stays. It won't be long until Thomas Crossroads becomes another Old National Highway. And that is one UGLY, Nasty looking place. For those of you who wants this type of stuff, okay, but please don't decrease the value of our property with this filth the economy is doing enough of that. Just go online and the junk mailed to your home. Please Coweta a proud place to live. PLease.
Posted by sandra at 7:44 AM
One sided DB? The freakin' State Attorney General commented!!!
Posted by Pepe at 7:41 AM
DB @ 10:28 pm. If this was a community decision, why were we not allowed to go cast our vote? We did not decide weather this ordinance was approved or denied, it was NOT a community vote. Please, check your facts before you assume this community made this decision.
Posted by Jen at 7:41 AM
This is to all the people that are complaining about the Starship Store. Who cares. And yes as to one of the other post there is no difference on going online and ordering them or going into a store and getting them. No, this would not be like Old National or the other places. The first people that would go to the store would be the people that do not want. You do not want because you are embarrassed that someone will see you in the store that you are trying to keep out of Newnan. My thing is what I buy for my own pleasure and what anyone else buys for there is no concern of yours. I would love for one to come to Newnan. I will be the first one to tell you I have been in these stores and there is nothing wrong with them. You need to worry about teen pregnancy and people getting STD's or HIV because you don't want the sell of condoms or other sexual material. Stop complaining and get a dang life people.
Posted by I don't mind at 7:38 AM
Personally, I believe Starship should sue the county. Why? They have a valid point. If the county did not truly want them to open they should not have issued a building permit, occupancy license and then allow them to spend 100,000 to renovate the building. The ordinance they passed was ONLY passed to prevent this ONE store from opening. Thank you Church’s at Thomas crossroads and Mr. Bill “megaphone” Ball you have successfully caused this county to revert to the 1800’s, caused the citizens to turn on one another, and basically handed a lawsuit to Starship on a silver platter.
Posted by Jen at 7:38 AM
You have got to be kidding. Now I am a GOD fearing man and love Jesus just as much as the next guy but we can not start making laws to fix every thing in this world. It is just like this, this man has the right to make a living and who are we to judge. Next thing is they will be telling me what I can or can not do in my own house. Leave it alone and try to fix the real problems like jobs for people out of work. Now there is a good problem to work on. Coweta Commissioners get a grip.
Posted by Steve at 7:36 AM
Good Luck! I can't wait till you open. The commissioners need to get a life!
Posted by Jennifer at 7:30 AM
Get past the moral implications of Mr. Roger's business. Look at the substance. Where in it's nature does it fit into the existing businesses and surrounding community? How does it enhance the surrounding area? It doesn't. If you moved here from a declining metro area, why would you want one of the contributing factors for the decline to follow you and your family to your new home. People have moved to Coweta for all the good things the county has to offer. How does an Adult Store enhance a family oriented community? Put the store in an appropriate location and the issue is solved. Mr. Rogers wants his business in the most open and offensive location that he can find. Coweta County is not the problem, Mr. Rogers attitude and approach are the problem. I invite Mr. Rogers to join the community as a responsible member by asking him to locate his business in area deemed appropriate by the community. Step up Mr. Rogers, do the right thing.
Posted by JH at 7:30 AM
Hey Kelly Rogers and all you Starship supporters why don't you realize that your not wanted here and go to “Old National, Tara Blvd. Clayton county etc…” I'm sure you will all feel more at home there anyway.
Posted by lee at 7:26 AM
"Starship Enterprise" will be NOTHING but a porn store under! Is this what Newnan/Coweta County needs? Research the adverse effects of porn. Porn has zero value in this society. By the way, this isn't the CHURCH speaking, only research and previous studies!
Posted by Melynda at 7:23 AM
Victimize the villain and criminalize what is right? Come on. What is the Commissioner's side to this story? Why is only one side given so much attention?
Posted by oh brother at 7:18 AM
Give him his money back - his atty mentioned $100K and send him on his way.
Posted by Christie Adams at 7:09 AM
I think it is time for these commisioners to get out of the way for Coweta to expand. If people want sex toys they should have the right to get them locally. If you don't want the store then don't go in it try and put it out of business by not going in it.
Posted by Daniel at 7:07 AM
Give Mr. Rogers his $100,000k refund back, and send him on his jolly way. Any of you who have strong opinions about how unfair he is being treated, etc, and have never been in one of his stores - go, watch and see. Look around the area while you are at it. If you require sex toys and porno movies in order to have a successful sex life, order your supplies over the i-net or better yet, visit one of his current locations.
Posted by Christie Adams at 7:04 AM
The only way Thomas Crossroads will become like the cities you listed, is if we let it! Not because of a sex shop! The people against this store are the ones who really need to visit it. If citizens from other counties come to see the store, then actually Mr. Rogers is helping out Coweta County!
Posted by Jeff G at 6:47 AM
Who is pulling the strings to make the commission puppets dance?
Posted by cowboy at 6:22 AM
Unless you want Thomas Crossroads/Newnan to turn into one of these other "Starship locations" we need to do whatever it takes to stop this store. Do you want to live on Old National, Tara Blvd or Central Ave? I am pretty sure not! Don't let this man ruin all of our property values with this tacky store.
Posted by Lynn at 5:09 AM
Is these ordiences lawful. They were not published in enough time of studied for the ramifications of these laws. After a person request a business permit you turn them down then enact a law that is in violation of the right. Also these items are not sex toys as state law says they are illegal thats why they are adult novelty items and if this store can not sell these then you should not be able to buy KY jelly at Krogers. Beer Bottles should be illegal too. Condoms are considered adult but all the churches around here except chatolics (they are against the use of personel protection) will say that you are promoting preg. and STDs. Coweta Countyhas some mjor issues. I feel abandon by my county officials and will start a campagin to oust all of you. You have abandon society and taken the high road. Get off you golden ticket and do something like get more business to open there doors instead or raising property taxes.
Posted by Wes at 1:40 AM
Why try to slip through the loopholes? This is an adult store and a sexually oriented business-- it's ridiculous to try to say otherwise!
Posted by anti-starship at 1:28 AM
i don't understand why the starship thing is that big a deal.i can go on the internet and buy anything they sell.and why does anyone care if you or i buy sex toys that's our right. this store is in no way hurting anyone.and the thing about home values going down.do people only buy a house to just sell it later do these poeple not know what the meaning of home is.thats sad.this store is no reason to sell your home.these days your homes not worth what most paid for them anyway.
Posted by brian at 12:49 AM
Good luck Mr. Rogers. I am a Small Business Owner located not far from your store. I am glad to have you here. We need to have a county vote on this matter. We also need to look at East Coweta High School pregnancy rate. It is the highest in the state of Georgia. Now Commissioners, Do we really need to band condoms? Coweta County needs to get with the 21st century. I am embarrassed to say I live in Coweta County. Stop spending my tax dollars on this and let Starship open. Grow up !!!!!!
Posted by Business owner in Newnan at 12:21 AM
Anyone want to set up a pool here betting on how many comments will posted to this article?
Posted by commenter at 12:20 AM
Isn't he cute?? We don't want your store here. Get it??? Go to Fulton Industrial where the other "adult businesses" have been allowed. You will be successful there....but, you better pack a gun.
Posted by family at 11:57 PM
I think its funny the way the county is,I mean the ones trying to get the store to leave and all the "church going crowd" Ya'll will be the first to go in the store.I know alot of you so called church folk.Come on get over it.Ive had sex parties and what did ya'll say I will come to it if ya'll come to church on Sunday.and ya'll bought something them what ya'll dont wont to get caught in the store
Posted by Becbec at 11:38 PM
I'm glad Mr.Begner is taking actions its a great idea because people need to realize business is business and it means a job to alot of us.
Posted by Kay at 11:30 PM
So the guy who wrote the law 'doesn't think' it will be applied to condoms and lubricant. Now I'm not a legal scholar, but the fact the guy who wrote the law is unsure is not comforting.
Posted by Adam Reuter at 11:03 PM
Don't you think it's a conflict of interest for Santa to sell NAUGHTY toys on the side? It seems that it will cut into his Christmas Eve deliveries in Coweta County. But, if you're that upset about all this - just remember. Under Obama's healthcare package, you'll have free healthcare. Then you can get a prescription for a sex toy. Then you can go to the pharmacy and get it filled. And taxpayers can foot the bill! You won't even need Starship!
Posted by Putting the Fun back in Fundamentalism at 10:54 PM
I would be interested to know how much it is going to cost the tax payers in Coweta county to fight against a store that is clearly going to be opened.
Posted by Adam Reuter at 10:52 PM
Nice one-sided story. Did anyone bother the get the commissioner's side of the story ?
Posted by DB at 10:38 PM
And by the way... didn't the County tell Mr. Rogers at the last meeting that he needs to take his signs down? Why do I still have to look at them everytime I drive past there with my kids in the car? TAKE THEM DOWN!!
Posted by DB at 10:36 PM
Hmmm, that's an interesting picture. "He's making a list, checking it twice, gonna find out who's NAUGHTY or nice..." Or he's writing the text for these NTH stories (a.k.a. free Starship advertisements)
Posted by Putting the Fun back in Fundamentalism at 10:29 PM
News flash: Ordinances are passed for the purpose of conforming the area to the desires of the majority of the community - in the best interest of the majority of the community... and that's EXACTLY what happened here!! That's why we vote for commissioners and that's why they have the power to do just exactly what they did. There has never been a larger public outcry against anything (that I can remember) in this town and for good reason. We all see the detrimental consequences to this store coming here and we exercised all the power and authority which we have available to us to stop it from harming our town. Mr. Rogers underestimated the people of Coweta County if he thought he was going to waltz in here and turn our home into a trashy, immoral cesspool like the other areas he has corrupted with his stores. He can say what he wants, but there is no way this store is coming to Coweta County and I am proud of our commissioners for making that abundantly clear!
Posted by DB at 10:28 PM
I am all for Starship opening, there is no difference in what they sell, and these conveinence and book stores (Hasting, Barnes & Noble) selling the same things, at least Starship restricts who comes in. If you doubt what I say go checkout the stores, they sell Religious and Adult material..EVERYDAY,WITHOUT IT BEING RESTRICTED..Where's the outrage....hmmm all I hear is silence.
Posted by Cali at 10:24 PM
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Greg Geerlings and Born Again
1/29/2009
Link To This Comment
Greg - What do you mean the "majority"? How do you know, because nobody has allowed us to vote on the issue. I'd be willing to bet you that you would be wrong by assuming that the "majority" share the view that this new ordinance is great! Born Again - Please stop preaching about what YOU and YOUR church have deemed as "moral". Even the Bible is subjective in its interpretation, so how can you dictate morality to someone else? Maybe what YOU did was immoral, but you can't speak to MY actions, because you don't know me! The store, in and of itself, is NOT immoral; however one could do immoral things with what they purchase there, but that could be the case with ANYTHING!
Posted by Coweta Resident at 4:31 PM