As the only clairvoyant columnist for The Berkshire Edge, I feel as if I’ve failed in not foreseeing the arrival of the Green Tea Party — a group dedicated to fighting what it perceives as unfair taxation in Great Barrington for education.
But I’m here to tell you that plenty of other grassroots movements are on the horizon. Indeed, the political landscape for Great Barrington is soon to be filled with tea bags of all kinds. So grab a mug and get cozy, because town meetings are going to reach a boiling point soon with this new wave of political activists.
Herbal Tea Party
Primary Issue: Marijuana should be legalized in Berkshire County but it shouldn’t be used as a vehicle for tax revenue.
Rallying Cry: “Nothing kills a high faster than a high tax rate.”
Sleepytime Tea Party
Primary Issue: Books, down comforters, and any other tools for achieving slumber should not be taxable.
Rallying Cry: “No taxation on relaxation.”
Ginger Tea Party
Primary Issue: Mellow red-headed restaurant owners should not be responsible for paying meal tax.
Rallying Cry: “Chillax. Don’t tax.”
Raspberry Leaf Tea Party
Primary Issue: There should be no tax on tampons.
Rallying Cry: “Menstruation without taxation!”
Mr. T Party
Primary Issue: Some no-nonsense tough talk is all Great Barrington residents need to get the tax situation under control.
Rallying Cry: “We pity the fools who pay high taxes. And here in GB, we are the fools.”
Oolong Tea Party
Primary Issue: Not sure yet but didn’t want anyone else to grab “oolong.”
Rallying Cry: “Hold on. We’ll figure it out soon.”
