Working to save retail giant

JCPenney in Coudersport has always been a Christmas shopping hot spot. We caught this shopper checking out on Black Friday. Community leaders are putting together a concerted effort to persuade JCPenney not to shut down its downtown Coudersport store.

Company officials confirmed earlier this month that the business will shut down in February, idling 12 workers and removing a cornerstone of the town's commercial district.

On Saturday, a number of elected officials, civic leaders and JCPenney customers will gather to produce a unique appeal to the company's corporate leadership in Plano, Texas.

They'll be producing a fiveminute video designed to demonstrate how the relatively small store in downtown Coudersport symbolizes the mission and values of the chain's founder, James Cash Penney.

Testimonials from customers, employees and community leaders will highlight the video pitch. The appeal will emphasize how JCPenney could capitalize on the Coudersport store as an image-builder, portraying the giant merchandiser as a community-focused business in a downtown setting.

That's one way to contrast JCPenney competitor Wal- Mart.

The Coudersport store has been at the same location since opening in 1930. The business expanded several years ago, taking over the former Hamlin Five and Dime general merchandise store.

Sylvia Venne, manager of the JCPenney stores in Coudersport and Towanda, said those with questions or comments about the closing should call 972-431-8200, or email prmail@jcpenney.com. Letters should be sent to: Corporate Customer Relations, P.O. Box 1001, Dallas TX 75301.

Comments can also be sent via the Internet at jcpenney.net.