popplers

Save Toscanini's

The main page over at tosci.com now links to the Save Toscanini's web site. They've posted an open letter from Gus Rancatore that (partially) explains what happened and what they're trying to do.

[…] Toscanini's is collecting donations after being seized by the Mass. Department of Revenue. Several years ago at the start of an ill-starred and very disorganized expansion we did not pay taxes. I made a mistake. I screwed up.

For the years since then we have been paying taxes and running in a business-like manner. We have been talking with the Mass. DOR about the very important question of how much we owe. We had hoped to postpone a resolution of this until the spring when our cashflow is much greater but that didn't happen. […]

As you might expect, the comments are filled with debate and no small amount of rancor regarding the wisdom of donating money to someone who should have paid their taxes. On the flip side, there are many posts from people attesting to the kindness and goodness of Gus and Mimi, and the worthiness of the cause. I didn't know Gus or Mimi, but I have always enjoyed their ice cream. I think it's worth donating because I want to see them come back (hopefully with a new business plan) and because I already miss the chocolate-orange sorbet. Plus, it's just not fair— I finally get a job in Central Square, and Tosci's closes 2 weeks later?! Cruel, cruel Fate.