EDITORIAL: Reject heated argument over cold beer

The convenience store industry, having been thwarted repeatedly in its lobbying efforts, is asking the courts to change state law restricting the sales of cold beer to package liquor stores. This is a restriction that should remain in place.

EDITORIAL: Ignition interlock devices are key to safety

One of the National Transportation Safety Board's recommendations for decreasing the number of traffic fatalities seems dead on arrival in the Indiana General Assembly. But that shouldn't stop the state from following up on another suggestion.

Zero-tolerance alcohol policy for on-duty police emerges

SPRINGFIELD | Illinois lawmakers are pushing for a zero-tolerance alcohol policy for on-duty police officers, yet recent findings could slow negotiations.

Winery patrons could drive carrying recorked bottles, Illinois House says

SPRINGFIELD | Patrons at Illinois wineries will be able to drive away with a recorked, partially consumed bottle of wine under a proposal that was unanimously approved in the Illinois House on Friday.

Duneland School Board approves pilot breath test program

CHESTERTON | Members of the Duneland School Board unanimously approved mandatory breath tests for students upon entry to the last two remaining dances of the school year, prom and senior banquet, as part of a pilot program before considering it a permanent part of school alcohol policy.

Plan for unlimited liquor licenses for lakefront restaurants facing changes

INDIANAPOLIS | A Senate-approved plan for unlimited alcohol sales licenses at restaurants along Lake Michigan, especially in Whiting, is likely to be altered before getting a vote by the House.

Authorities shut down E.C. bar

EAST CHICAGO | Law enforcement and fire officials on Friday ordered an East Chicago bar closed after citing numerous illegal activities and code violations.

Lugar MADD

Candy Lightner, left, founder and president of (MADD) Mothers Against Drunk Drivers, faces reporters on June 14, 1983, at Capitol Hill, Washington. Lightner is joined by Sen. Richard Lugar, R-Ind., and Transportation Secretary Elizabeth Dole. The three favor a national drinking age of 21.

Proposal for Sunday take-home alcohol sales gets first look

INDIANAPOLIS | The state's prohibition on Sunday take-home alcohol sales got a close look Wednesday by a House committee considering legislation to end the ban.

Ball State study finds high binge drinking rates in Indiana

A report from Ball State University found more than a third of Indiana adults who drink admit to binge drinking regularly.

Some states unhappy about the idea of happy hours

The concept of happy hour, when bars offer lower prices or two-for-one specials, may seem like an American tradition, but is in fact illegal or restricted in quite a few places.

High or dry? Staying sober for New Year's Eve

Whether in recovery or not interested for other reasons, the holidays often mean an excess of booze and drugs.

Beer: A healthier choice than wine?

Beer is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages, but its health benefits have been largely ignored, while the benefits of wine have come to the fore. But some studies now show that beer is actually healthier than wine.

GUEST COMMENTARY: Indiana package liquor stores generate jobs, cheer

The Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers is recognizing the hard work and societal contributions of beverage alcohol retailers by celebrating Package Liquor Store Month this November. America’s independent package stores, which in most cases provide a wide array of beer, wine and spirit…

Police: Man arrested at Walmart with alcohol in pants

PORTAGE | A 20-year-old Lake Station man was arrested Saturday evening for trying to leave Walmart with three bottles of alcohol stuffed in his pants.

ATC Announces Employee Permit Renewals Now Online

INDIANAPOLIS | The Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission announced this week employee permits may now be renewed online.

Many new state laws take effect Sunday

INDIANAPOLIS | The Republican-controlled Indiana General Assembly approved and Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels signed 161 bills into law this year. Most take effect Sunday.

Hobart High School drives home a teen safety message

Hobart High School junior Forrest McCollum tries to text and drive on a computer simulator Friday during a class about the dangers of impaired and distracted driving.

Hobart High School drives home a teen safety message

Hobart High School junior Forrest McCollum puts on impaired vision goggles to simulate a high blood alcohol content Friday during a pre-prom class at the school to discourage impaired driving.

Hobart High School drives home a teen safety message

Hobart police Cpl. Joe Clemmons, left, directs Hobart High School junior Caitlin Leath on Friday during a mock sobriety test with impaired vision goggles.