By Jayne Jaramillo

Sun Staff Intern

NORWICH – Summer is here with warm weather, sunshine and plenty to do in downtown Norwich, and the Norwich Merchants Association is hoping to add to that by organizing “First Thursdays.”

On the first Thursday of every month, from 6 to 8 p.m., businesses in the downtown area will team up with one from outside to offer promotions, discounts and prizes.

“It will allow exposure for businesses who don’t have storefronts,” said Linda McNeil, who chairs the marketing committee for the Merchants Association, along with her husband, Patrick McNeil.

McNeil Jewelers will be participating with free massages provided by A Touch of More Massage Therapy, custom baskets from Joy in a Basket and a 10 percent discount on any purchase.

“It hopefully will get more of our public downtown,” said Sally Franck of Joy in a Basket. “It’s really about promoting local business.”