The future of Ludington Gus Macker depends on Volunteers
Ludington, and most everyone else, loves the Gus Macker Tournament held here every June. For 17 years, Macker has been coming to Ludington for the popular 3-on-3 basketball tournament, and requires nearly 400 volunteers to make it a success.
The Macker contract comes up every three years, and it is now time for the Chamber to make the decision whether to renew. They are also moving the tournament to the third weekend in June, with the Lakestride Half Marathon and Relay for Life moving up to the second weekend.
To show support for the event, the Chamber is seeking commitments from local volunteers and sponsors. These numbers have been dwindling over the years, and many volunteers have continually worked Gus Macker for the past 17 years. It takes $100,000 in sponsorships to put on the tournament. Macker Enterprises is willing to help by supplying a number of Gus Busters, but local support is also needed.
Ludington's Gus Macker is the largest on the nationwide circuit, and draws teams from all over Michigan and beyond. Not only do local businesses benefit, but so do local schools. Over the past 17 years, more than $300,000 has been returned to area schools to help purchase uniforms and equipment.
Tentative dates for the 2009 Gus Macker Tournament are June 20-21. Early commitments for time or money can be emailed to Macker@ludington.org, or mailed to the Chamber Office at 5300 W. US-10, Ludington, MI 49431. All commitments should be in by September 18th.