FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Rachel Fox

October 30, 2007
202.879.5594

****MEDIA ADVISORY****

PRESS AVAILABILITY

Chicago Small Businesses Unite Against

Wine, Beer and Spirits Tax

Wednesday, October 31st at 9:30 AM, Chicago small business owners and supporters will gather at City Hall to demonstrate against the Chicago City Council’s proposed excise tax increase on wine, beer and spirits.

While this increase will greatly affect consumers, who already pay seven different taxes every time they order a bottle of beer, a glass of wine or an after-dinner drink, Chicago’s small businesses will bear the greatest burden.

After a 2005 increase earned Chicago the dubious distinction of the metropolitan area with the United State’s highest taxes on adult beverages, the City Council is now considering raising the taxes on city residents even higher. In fact, the new proposal would mean an 85 percent tax increase on liquor in the past three years.

WHO: Chicago Small Business Owners and Supporters

Larry Stevens, President of the City Wide Liquor Association

Melvin Burnside, Owner of Reese’s Lounge & City Wide Member.

Mike Moreno, Owner of Moreno’s Liquor

Beth Murphy, Owner of Murphy’s Bleachers

Mary Lindsay, Owner of Jokes & Notes

WHEN: Wednesday, October 31st, 9:30 AM
WHERE: Chicago City Hall, 121 North LaSalle, 2nd Floor (just outside the elevator bank)

To schedule interviews, please contact Rachel Fox at the number above.

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