Wichita is among eight cities to host the first and second rounds of the NCAA men's basketball tournament. Downtown businesses are hoping thousands of visitors will eat, sleep, shop and perhaps get a haircut.
Jeremie Mcglory owns Artistry Lounge barbershop, located north of Naftzger Park in downtown Wichita. Mcglory says there's been growing excitement among Douglas Avenue business owners about the tournament.
He says the recently opened barbershop has overstocked items to help groom any spectator, coach or ball player.
"We want to be able to give the best product that we know we can give you," Mcglory says. "On top of that, what we've done is made sure that we've had enough complimentary beverage, sodas and waters to accommodate everybody who may walk in. We also are adding another TV so we can be sure that we have all the games that are on covered."
The economic impact of the NCAA tournament in Wichita is estimated to be $10 million.
--
Carla Eckels is director of cultural diversity and the host of Soulsations. Follow her on Twitter @Eckels.
To contact KMUW News or to send in a news tip, reach us at news@kmuw.org.