NORWICH – For the third year in a row, participants in the Gus Macker Basketball Tournament will be able to save some cash at local businesses when they show their Macker wristbands.
“I like having all these events in town,” said Lisa Mody of First Edition book store. “I think they’re good for us.”
Mody says Gus Macker may not necessarily represent a significant increase in her business, but it does help to bring in new people.
“It’s more of a different group of people,” she said. “Like most events.”
First Edition will offer 10 percent off any purchase for Macker participants.
“I like to support the things the community does,” said Sharon Jeffer, owner of the Parson’s Daughter.
Jeffer explained that sometimes it is difficult to promote some of her merchandise during Gus Macker.
“When it’s 90 degrees out, people don’t want chocolate,” she said. “So I put the emphasis on two items that aren’t chocolate.”
Jeffer is offering berry gum and large jawbreakers for a dollar a piece.
Susan Wood, owner of Thymely Treasures, says she always welcomes new customers from the tournament.
“I keep my door open,” she said. She added that she is usually not open on Sundays, but she will be for Gus Macker weekend.
Wood is offering 10 percent off purchases for participants who come in with Macker bracelets.
Renee Byrne, of Dusty’s Dairy Bar and Grill, said Gus Macker brings in a lot of new customers, including travelers and people staying nearby for the weekend.
“We definitely get more people, especially for lunch,” Byrne added.
Dusty’s will offer a free small ice cream cone with the purchase of lunch.
Other businesses participating in the wristband promotion include McLaughlin’s, which will offer $5 off of qualifying purchases, and McNeil Jewelers.
McNeil’s will give 20 percent off anything in stock, and parents can even bring in their “little” basketball player and get the discount.