EASLEY – Easley is ready for some baseball and ready for an economical boost as it welcomes teams and families from all over the world for the 2009 Big League World Series hosted at the J.B. “Red” Owens Recreation Complex from July 29-Aug. 5.

Easley has hosted the BLWS for the past nine years now. Each year, the baseball tournament puts Easley in the television spotlight as well as brings business to restaurants, businesses and hotels around the city.

With the economy in a slump, Easley business owners, seem positive about the economical impact the tournament will have on the community.

Mike Cuthran, a manager at Fatz Café in Easley said they usually see a positive impact on their restaurant. He said they see a boost in sales due to players and their families coming in to enjoy the food.

Steven Jackson, one of the owners of Copper River Grill in Easley said, “We see a significant increase during the Big League World Series. I keep notes from each year showing the increase. We also sponsor the volunteers that work at the games and provide for them. I think it has a wonderful impact economically on the community of Easley.

With any sporting event come families of the players. Hotels seem to see an increase each year due to the tournament.

Sho’s Café owner Mark Schonar has a different opinion about the impact.

“I really don’t usually see a huge difference each year because many people like to stay close to the players, so they visit the Clemson/Anderson area more,” said Schonar. “I hoping that this year will be different and I hope Easley will benefit from it.”

Shannon Whitner from the Jameson Inn said they normally see a significant difference. She said they already have some of the rooms booked for the tournament, but there is also a swim meet and a clogging competition this weekend, so she looks for it to be a thriving weekend.

“The Easley Chamber of Commerce fully believes that many people will be coming to visit in our town this week,” said Chamber President Kent Dikes. “We believe there will be a positive impact on our economy. We are excited about the event and all the business it will bring.”

Easley is expecting 234 participants including all players, coaches and umpires. This number doesn’t include the families that will be joining those participants.

In a study made in the area for overnight stays for families of the participants, each family will spend around $200 a night in hotel, food and gas.

In addition, the BLWS tournament gives money to Southern Wesleyan University to house the players so money will be generated in the county.

The Chamber of Commerce, The City of Easley and all the businesses around the city hope everyone enjoys the 2009 Big League World Series.