Sunday, July 14, 2013, was the first time alcoholic beverages could be sold in Morrison, IL, taverns on Sunday. Prior to the Ordinance change on Monday, July 8, Morrison was the only town in Whiteside County that disallowed Sunday liquor sales. The Council vote was unanimous (6 votes) to amend that. Currently the Sunday open hours are noon to 10:00 p.m.
So, how did it go?
Hero’s Tap, 208 E. Main Street, is owned by Shane and Wendy Gallentine. Shane reported, “It was better than a normal weekday; we were pleased.” They closed at 10:00 p.m. and “had to throw out about 25 people. We were definitely happy with our first weekend. It’ll probably keep getting better.”
Fat Boy’s, 201 E. Main Street, is owned by Toby Lindeman. His is the longest-running tavern, marking 11 years on May 1, 2013. “It was fine. We served 40 for lunch, and that’s okay. They’re not used” to us being open. “It’s early. I think during football season [it will be] much more beneficial. I’m just happy the Council let us choose to make money, by being open that day. Previously we haven’t had the opportunity.”
Da’ Bar, 109 E. Main Street, is owned by Diane Martin; the managers are Kimberly Jones and Becky Williamson. The bar was not open on July 14, but “We may be open on Sunday, July 28, from noon to 5:00 or 6:00 p.m.,” an employee said. “We’re still debating to see how it goes. A lot of us have children,” she explained.
KJ’s Bar & Grill, 115 W. Main Street, is owned by Kent and Terri Shepard. Terri stated, “It was alright for us; it was a good day!” The bar “sold more drinks than food all day. It was steady all day.”
Morrison bar owners and managers had gathered in the Chamber of Commerce office on Thursday, December 6, 2012, to share the “monetary votes” they received during the Christmas Walk weekend, Friday, November 30, and Saturday, December 1. Each establishment had offered a Christmas Cocktail Concoction for the public to evaluate and enjoy. They presented a check to the Morrison Friends Food Pantry, represented by Director Kaywyn Beswick.
Pictured left-to-right in the front row are Hero’s Tap co-owner Wendy (Shane) Gallentine presenting the check to Beswick; manager Kimberly Jones and manager Becky Williamson with Da’ Bar owner Diane Martin. The back row includes Toby Lindeman, owner of Fat Boy’s, and co-owner Kent (Terri) Shepard of KJ’s Bar & Grill.