The reopening of state Highway 22 has prompted the Gillett Area Chamber of Commerce to provide an incentive to patronize local businesses that were impacted by the year-long road closure.
Chris Byars, chamber president, announced during the highway’s ribbon cutting ceremony Oct. 16 that the Passport to Gillett program was launching. When someone purchases something from participating businesses, that person receives a stamp in the booklet. Getting at least 10 stamps in the booklet during a three-month period permits the user to turn it in and be eligible for winning Chamber Bucks.
“You can use them to spend at Gillett businesses for future purchases,” Byars said. “I would say pick up one of these, stop at one of these local businesses and give them your business. They definitely appreciate it, and I know you will get some great service from every one of them.”
Byars noted that businesses had some difficulty due to their main entrances being impacted by the road construction — not only those along the corridor, but others that didn’t have heavy equipment outside their front door but still usually received visitors via the highway.
Byars recounted how it really felt like Gillett was back to normal the first time he heard an ad the chamber had placed making the announcement.
“I remember listening to it and thinking, ‘Wow. Gillett is open,’” Byars said.
He added that the advertisement vowed anyone who shops in the community will be greeted by smiling faces.
“That’s what it means to live in a smaller city like Gillett,” Byars said. “When you go in and support our local businesses, like when you go in and see Pete at Main Street Sweets, he has ice cream for you. He has some great chocolate and other candies, too.”
Information about chamber programs can be found at www.gillettchamber.com.
lpulaski@newmedia-wi.com
