The Globe and Mail reports in its Saturday, Sept. 7, edition that last week, Ontarians began to enjoy a small convenience that people in most advanced countries take for granted: purchasing alcohol at the corner store. The Globe's Marcus Gee writes that Ontarians can now buy beer, wine and ready-made cocktails at thousands of newly licensed outlets across the province. Critics of the new regime insist it is a disaster in the making. Some say that alcohol abuse is bound to soar, others that underage drinking will take off. Opposition parties say the money the government is paying out to smooth the transition is a colossal waste of taxpayer money. Mr. Gee says Ontario is simply getting in step with the rest of the world. Countries all over the world have booze for sale in small stores. Quebec's famous depanneurs have sold beer and plonk for years. Civilization as we know it has not ended yet. Mr. Gee says there is nothing to suggest that making these legal beverages slightly easier to purchase will unleash anarchy on the streets. It has been close to 40 years since another premier, David Peterson, promised to get beer and wine into corner stores. It has been six years since Mr. Ford came to office making the same vow.