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Tax Hikes Won't Damper Sidewalk Sales

GREENWICH, Conn. — Despite the recent elimination of tax exemptions on clothes, shoes and accessories costing less than $50 in Connecticut, the Greenwich Chamber of Commerce does not expect this year’s sidewalk sales days will be affected.

“I don’t think we’re talking anything significant,” said Jeff Weber, president of the chamber. “I think people recognize the sidewalk sale days are such a hallmark event, the values and selections are very diverse and they can pick up great bargains. I don’t think taxes will impact anything.”

The 2011 Greenwich Sidewalk Sale Days are a popular annual event, with shoppers from all over Connecticut and New York flocking to Greenwich Avenue and side streets to find savings on clothing, jewelry, shoes and gifts.

A new 6.35 percent tax went into effect July 1, including on clothing and footwear costing less than $50, the cost of many bargains available during sidewalk sales. Despite this, Weber reiterated that the popularity of the event will outweigh extra costs to consumers.  

The sales begin 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, July 21, and continue Friday, Saturday, and for the first time ever, Sunday, from noon to 5 p.m. “We’ve extended it through Sunday this year because we felt because many of the stores are open on Sunday anyway, why not bring any opportunity for more traffic for the stores,” said Weber, adding the response of merchants has been tremendous toward the extended sale.

Saturday and Sunday will feature ballroom dancing by Arthur Murray Dance Studio and live music by R. J. Bracchitta and Sea Rhapsody to entertain shoppers, while Party by Lisa will offer face painting for children. Face Painter Funela will also be on hand, and photographer Monika Satur will capture with fun with photos. Participating restaurants will be serve up tasty fare. “We hope these special activities will encourage people to bring kids and bring the family down to enjoy the days,” said Weber.   

Additional sponsors of the 2011 Greenwich Sidewalk Sales Days include Amanda Smith Caterers; Nantucket Chicks; Nino Bossi Handbags; Shaklee – Debbie Miron, authorized distributor; Venture Photography; and Vinylume Inc.  Media sponsors include The Advocate/Greenwich Time, WGCH-AM1490, Brooks Community Newspapers, Serendipity and The Daily Greenwich.

For further information on the 2011 Greenwich Sidewalk Sale Days, call TMK Sports & Entertainment at 203-531-3047 or the Greenwich Chamber of Commerce at 203-869-3500 or visit www.Greenwichchamber.com 

Will sales taxes deter you from shopping at the sidewalk sales, or is it the perfect opportunity to take advantage of lower prices? Comment below or send responses to ahelhoski@thedailygreenwich.com.

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