CBS 19 - The Eye of East Texas News - Henderson City Council OKs alcohol at new civic center

Henderson City Council OKs alcohol at new civic center

By Wilton Johnson

HENDERSON- Tony Fejzaj recently brought high-end cuisine to Henderson in the form of Donatella. His philosophy, give the customer options.

"Whatever the customer wants," he said Tuesday as he swished a skillet full of shrimp and pasta.

Even when it comes to allowing them to bring wine into the dry Rusk County restaurant.

"They have the right, they come in with a bottle of wine to ask me to open it for them, that's how we do it," he continued.

Now the City of Henderson wants to give customers of it's new high-end civic center the same option.

"We're not endorsing alcohol and we're not condemning it. We're just going to put it before council and let them vote on it," Mayor John "Buzz" Fullen said.

The majority of those who spoke at Tuesday's meeting we're against anything that didn't keep with Rusk County being dry.

"A community is made up of individuals. If alcohol cannot improve the health and lifestyle of an individual, then it cannot improve the health and lifestyle of a community," Johnny Sproles said in the first public comment.

Those in favor said the renter of the civic center should make the choice.

"Those who want to hold a banquet there with no alcohol may do so, those who do may do so, it's freedom of choice," said Dr. David Craig.

Before his second on the motion, Councilman Mike Smith said it all comes down to business. If people can't drink at Henderson's new civic center, they'll take their business elsewhere.

"It's an opportunity for those who choose, to have a private party to do so here in Henderson," he said.

The motion narrowly passed 3 to 2.

Fejzaj says he's happy keeping his customers happy. And like all good Italians, he keeps the church in mind.

"Even if I could get a liquor license I would not go against the church, I respect the church."