Recent liquor check shows big improvement

During a recent check done by the Washington State Liquor Control Board, only three out of 17 stores tested in the Port Orchard area sold alcohol to minors — a significant improvement over a similar check done in November.

In the November check, nearly half the tested stores sold alcohol illegally.

The three stores — 7 Star Mini Mart on Mile Hill Drive, M&M Market Deli (in conjunction with Texaco) on South Kitsap Boulevard and Hi-Way Market on Bethel Road — failed a control board test which assessed each store’s policy on asking for ID with a liquor purchase and the cashier’s ability to correctly inspect each ID offered.

The test was conducted with the help of 18- and 19-year-old volunteers who attempted to purchase alcohol at each store using their actual underage IDs.

The volunteers, selected because their appearances matched their ages, were also instructed to give their real ages if asked by the store’s clerk.

Failing stores either did not ask for ID or sold the alcohol even after seeing the purchaser’s identification.

One of the stores cited in November for selling to a minor, Country Junction on Mile Hill Drive, passed this latest round of tests. Control board officials emphasize that improvement — not punishment — is the goal of these checks.

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.