Ads for 'Polygamy Porter' Called Offensive

ByABC News
November 8, 2001, 3:26 PM

S A L T  L A K E  C I T Y, Nov. 8 -- Wasatch Beer thought it had come up with a great billboard for its Polygamy Porter "Why Have Just One?"

Billboard companies that have rejected the display disagree.

Reagan Outdoor Advertising refused to erect the billboard, whichadvised drinkers to "take some home for the wives" and "whenenjoying our flavorful beverages please procreate responsibly."

We've Done Worse

"We've exhibited much worse taste than this," Wasatch ownerGreg Schirf said earlier this week.

"The entire ad is offensive," Reagan Outdoor AdvertisingPresident Dewey Reagan said.

Previous Reagan billboards for Wasatch featured the buxom blondnamesake for St. Provo Girl Pilsner and catchphrases "Baptize yourtaste buds," "Serving the local faithful" and "Oh, my heck."

"We just do not want to be associated in any way with anythingthat associates in any way with polygamy," Reagan said. "It's notsomething that is accepted by the majority of society."

Schirf has tried to shop the billboard elsewhere but at leastone other Salt Lake City-based company, Young Electric Sign Co.,also rejected the advertisement.

Among those offended was Owen Allred, leader of one of Utah'slargest polygamist sects, the Apostolic United Brethren.

"I sure don't like it, but I don't think there is anything Ican do about it," he said. "We do not believe in alcoholic drinksof any kind, It's definitely a slam against the polygamists."