Where can you bring your empties and fill back up on your favorite beverages? Damon’s Beverage Mart in Augusta and now in Waterville (formerly Jokas) offer that convenience under one roof. There are also tasting events and the chance to donate to local non-profit organizations, sports teams and other worthy causes.

Jim Williamson is one of the managers at the Augusta location. He spoke about their redemption facility: “We have a program where if you have a Damon’s card, you get an extra ten percent added to the amount of money coming from your bottle or can deposit. Just come in, fill out our form with some basic information and we’ll give you a card.”

There is also a way to give back to the local community.

“We encourage local non-profits and other charities to come in and set up a bottle drive account. That way, customers bringing back empties can opt to donate all or part of the money they receive back to one or more of those groups.”

Damon’s has teamed up with a local radio station to run a bottle drive at the Augusta and Waterville stores. This will run until the end of the month of April, and the proceeds will go to the American Syringomyelia & Chiari Alliance Project. Damon’s has offered to donate 6 cents per bottle or can to this effort to raise money and awareness of “Chiari,” a neurological disorder. And those who donate their bottle fees will be entered into a contest to win tickets to Lee Brice or Billy Currington concerts this summer.

Tasting Events
Jim Williamson was enthusiastic about inviting customers in for tastings.

“If anybody finds us on Facebook, we announce events there and Instagram. We just had Rob from Baxter Brewing in Lewiston come with some interesting beers, including an East Coast IPA (India Pale Ale). The interest in Maine craft beer is exploding. If it’s local, people want to try it.”

That includes wine and spirits. “We carry Cellar Door Winery, Dragonfly and more. The same goes for spirits.”

Do you have a favorite? Call or Facebook message Damon’s and ask for it. If they don’t have it, they’re happy to special order it.
Damon’s carries so many craft brews, Jim Williamson couldn’t put a number on how many.

“We carry beers from as far away as California and everywhere in between.”

As for customers’ favorite styles? “IPA is still king, especially now that we’re moving out of winter. New England IPAs are popular.”

Drinks
Margaritas, mud slides, and whatever you need to make other cocktails. It’s five o’clock somewhere, and if that means cocktails in your house, Damon’s has what you need to make those tried and true Margaritas or Mud Slides, two drinks Jim Williamson said are still popular or whatever is popular among your crowd.

Digitally savvy
Truly immersed in the digital age, Damon’s responds to messages on their Facebook page within an hour. Customers can find the answers to questions like:
• Can you check the availability of a product?
• Can you check the price of a product?
• Where is your store located?
•Can I find out more about a product?

The Facebook page also announces a multitude of monthly beer specials. Click on “Notes” to see if your brand is on sale.

Damon’s Beverage Mart (formerly Lou’s Beverage Barn) is located at 75 Bangor Street, Augusta. Call 623-9864. Parking available. In Waterville, Damon’s is located at 52 Front Street. Call 873-6228. See their Facebook page for events and updates.

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