Neither sleet nor snow can keep Dalton from the Beer Store

One thing you've got to say about Dalton McGuinty - he's got his priorities straight. Not even a huge snowstorm that closed local schools could deter him from celebrating the one year anniversary of the 'Bag it Back' program.

Being the adventurous sort, I decided to check it out, but was stopped at the door by an employee.

"Are you here to buy beer?"

"No, I just want to peek in the windows", I pleaded.

"Well, he's not here yet".

"O.K. No problem". I thought about saying that I was a big fan or something, but I was afraid my nose would grow longer than Dalton's.

I headed over to the corner of the building where a customer approached me.

"Isn't it open?"

"Oh yeah. It's open if you're buying beer. The Premier is coming though."

He looked somewhat blank for a moment.

Then he scowled, "Dalton? I don't care about him!! I just want my beer".

"I hear ya, buddy". I broke out in laughter. He responded with a hearty guffaw, and then resumed his primary objective.

The Premier finally arrived flanked by local MPP's and handlers. He was carrying a bag which I assume contained an empty, and quickly disappeared inside.

You may be celebrating tonight Dalton, but I take solace in knowing that there's at least one other Ontarian out there who's not overly impressed with your performance.

I'll be raising my glass to him.

* * * *

Update: Dalton thinks we're doing a 'great job'. Aaawww... Too bad he isn't.

Oops! Scratch that!! Dalton says we need to do a better job - CNEWS. Obviously we're not meeting the government's achievement goals. Perhaps we need a separate depot for certain colours of bottles?

Dalton calls The Beer Store a 'wonderful institution'.

Related - Milk Stores Gasping - Sun:

...The OCSA asked the province allow convenience stores to sell wine and beer to ensure their long-term survival.

The McGuinty government opposes the sales of alcohol in corner stores and will not say whether it will address tobacco taxes in its budget...