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Business & Tech

Black Friday Deals Part of Festivities

Businesses have made a point this year of staying open during, after parade.

Main Street businesses will welcome visitors with discounts and treats on Black Friday as part of the revived Christmas Walk.

When John Morris, president of the Madison Chamber of Commerce, was a boy, residents who went downtown to see Santa Claus arrive on the day after Thanksgiving would stop in nearby stores for cider and cookies as well as to examine the merchandise.

But as the Christmas Parade grew larger — it’s expected to attract 5,000 people this year — businesses began to close during the event. Last year, the chamber asked them to remain open during and after the parade to revive the tradition.

“It’s a good time to build a lot of good will,” Morris said. And, “it’s a great kickoff to the Christmas season.”

Brooke Ciali, owner of the boutique Statements, said she plans to offer discounts and perhaps wine to customers Friday.

Ciali, who bought the store in August 2008, said Black Friday sales last year were good and she expects them to be even better this year.

Some business owners said people who bring their children to the parade are not necessarily in the mood to shop afterward, but they may notice a store and come back another day.

Bob Koppenol, owner of Starting Line Sports, which sells shoes and apparel for runners, swimmers, cyclists and tri-athletes, said he plans to keep the store open during and after the parade. He has sold warm hats and gloves to parade-goers on cold days, and he said the event gives people a chance to discover his store.

Joanne Dauber will put out cookies and cider for customers at Once & Again, her consignment store that moved to Main Street in October after 10 years on nearby Waverly Place.

She said many people have discovered her store since it moved, and she is aiming for a 25 percent increase in sales this holiday season. So far, she has sold two full sets of china for people who want to set holiday tables.

The chamber has other projects planned to encourage people to shop in Madison, including holiday gift certificates: a $50 one costs $45 and a $20 one, $19. They can be used at any Madison business.

Special holiday shopping days are scheduled Dec. 10-12, with strolling carolers in the downtown area.
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