Mention the words "alcohol" and "grocery store" in the same sentence, and many will find themselves in an hour-long debate here in Morton.

Since Morton mayor Norm Durflinger said he will recommend beer and wine sales in grocery stores, people here are a bit nervous.

Some are fearing the worst — alcohol abuse will increase and shake the moral foundation of this village.

While not everybody is in favor of the proposal, there are quite a few who are — particularly young adults.

We're not talking about teenagers or individuals under 21, but young people who have chosen to make their homes in Morton. If you talk to some of them, you might find that there is more support for additional alcohol sales in grocery stores.

Now, those who have lived in Morton for more than a decade as adults may have different views. Of those we have spoke with, it seems to be a mixed crowd of supporters and non-supporters.

While the majority of young adults are in support of wine and beer sales at grocery stores, it seems there is a deadlock among the older generations.

The mayor will tell you most of the people he speaks with support the change. And, he rightfully admits, they are the people he speaks to on a regular basis, so there could be some bias. Don't waste your time telling him you disagree, though.

He does not have any say in the matter once it comes down to a vote among the village board members.

Not all residents who oppose liquor licenses in grocery stores recognize this — instead opting to voice their anger toward parties that have no say (i.e. parents, friends, business owners). Try speaking to the individuals who will be voting on the issue — village board trustees.

This is a hot topic in Morton. It is a change from the conservative atmosphere of which the village takes pride. If residents are concerned about the proposal, they need to take the steps to influence the decision makers.

By all means, we like hearing opinions through letters to the editor or our Web site. But, that most likely will not change the outcome of the village.

The village board does not base its decisions on what we print in the newspaper every week. Village trustees are open, and they encourage hearing other opinions. They may disagree, but at least they know someone else thinks differently.

We recommend discussing the proposal for wine and beer sales with the board.

Residents will learn more about the village's perspective. They will find the best battles are fought in board rooms, not backyards.