Holiday shopping kickoff!
Businesses planning 'shop at home' campaign

Several Coudersport area businesses are banding together for a "shop at home" campaign, combined with a fund-raiser for a local charity.

Holiday Shopping Kickoff is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 3. Plans were discussed at Tuesday's Coudersport Area Chamber of Commerce meeting.

The Chamber's Merchants Group is sponsoring the event, which will include a craft/ vendor show, quilt show, steak bake and other activities. Proceeds will benefit the Christmas House.

Stan Swank, head of the Merchants Group, said several businesses will offer one-day specials for shoppers on Nov. 3 and many will have extended shopping hours.

In a related note, the Merchants Group will be encouraging businesses to join in a Christmas lighting campaign. Downtown buildings will have their borders illuminated. Details will be announced.

Chamber members also heard a presentation from Becky Bogdon from MM Temps, an agency that provides temporary employees for businesses and industries. The company has an office at the Pa. CareerLink center in Coudersport.

About 80 Potter County adults are currently working in part-time placements through MM Temps. Upwards of 90 percent of the people who are placed in part-time jobs end up landing full-time positions.

Bogdon said temporary employees can help merchants with holiday staffing needs or special projects, with no contractual obligations between MM Temps and the employer.

A drawing was held for the Chamber Holiday Vacation Giveaway. The winner is Al Stahl of Austin.

Stahl will be able to pick from a list of dozens of sports events, concerts or other attractions.

Tickets and lodging for two will be provided by the Chamber. The winner is responsible for transportation expenses.

Dolores Gartside reported that the Coudersport Welcome Committee has contacted several newcomers to the community and welcomes referrals. Carol Spaulding chairs the committee. Joan Bradley from Hepfer Financial Services is also active.

Jane Metzger, public relations representative from Charles Cole Memorial Hospital, announced that Cole will be celebrating its 40th anniversary with many activities starting soon and continuing into 2008.

Next Chamber meeting will be held at 8:30 Tuesday, Nov. 20, at the Hotel Crittenden. A breakfast buffet is available at 8:15. Chamber members and guests are welcome.