July 30, 2009

Buzzard's Bay Brewing vs MA Beer Tax

We never made any secret of our love for Buzzard's Bay Brewing in Westport, MA (we've visited them a few times now), but that was just based on their beer. Now the Buzzards have given us a good chuckle (and something to think about when we head to Mass) in an email we received from them this morning. For those who haven't heard, Massachusetts will start taxing beer (which was previously un-taxed) at a rate of 6.25%, beginning this Saturday (more at Boston Globe), and Buzzards Bay has a fun way to thumb their nose at the prospect, which we've included below.

To mark this lugubrious occassion, Buzzards Bay says, "THIS SATURDAY...declare yourself!"

We will offer a growler re-fill at $6.99 ($6.58 plus $0.41 tax) for anyone who states, "This new sales tax bites my Buzzard." (or use your own colorful metaphor).

For those who like the new sales tax (and I know there are quite a few who voiced anger at my anti-tax emails), please simply stay quiet or say "I LOVE NEW TAXES!" and you will be levied a fee of $8.50 ($8.00 plus $0.50 tax) for your growler re-fill.

LET ME REPEAT! State clearly, "Taxation with representation ain't so hot either...I hate this new tax" and pay $6.99 on your RE-FILL. Choose to say nothing or state, "I LOVE TAXES; they are dues that we pay for the privileges of membership in an organized society!" and fork over $8.50 for your RE-FILL.

OH! And if you are a State Rep or Senator? Please present your I.D. and we'll offer you a special price of $20 ($18.83 plus $1.17 tax) for a grower re-fill. Gov. Deval Patrick? We'll honor this same price for our Governor (and his staff) as well.

Looks like you're in luck if you can make it to Westport on Saturday. More about Buzzard's Bay Brewing at BuzzardsBrew.com.