The local Business Improvement Area is planning an “Easter Bunny Hop” this Saturday, with kids young and old alike encouraged to come down to Scott Street for an early visit from the long-eared giver of goodies himself.
“We’re trying to promote shopping in the downtown area with this,” said BIA chair Ted DeBenetti. “The day before Easter Sunday is one of the busiest shopping days of the year, with people looking for stuff to fill those baskets.
“And Easter’s kind of turned into a gift-giving occasion, as well,” he added.
The 200 and 300 blocks of Scott Street will be brightened up by colourful balloons, and the Easter Bunny will be hopping around the street to spread a little early Easter joy to the children who come out.
DeBenetti noted the BIA did not ask the town to block off part of Scott Street like it did with its inaugural “Winter Wonderland” promotion back in December.
“It can be tough with the weather in Fort Frances. But we’ll definitely be blocking off the street for some things, like ‘Mall Days,’” he added.
DeBenetti also said it’s possible individual businesses will hold special promotions of their own, though he was unaware of any at the time.
“The BIA is doing its part with balloons and the Easter Bunny,” he said. “Hopefully, the co-operation will work out for the better for everyone.”
Pharmasave hosted the Easter Bunny last Saturday, giving youngsters the chance to get their photo taken with him.
Meanwhile, the BIA has pledged to post a banner and have signs at the Memorial Sports Centre for the World Health Organization’s 11th-annual Conference on Safe Com-munities coming here May-6-9.
“We’re promoting shopping in the downtown area. If anyone [delegates] there gets some free time, we’re hoping they’ll check out local businesses,” said DeBenetti.
