Coudersport sets out to save JCPenney

Community leaders in Coudersport have stepped up their efforts to persuade merchandising giant JCPenney to keep its store open at the county seat.

JCPenney recently announced that it will close the store in February, idling 12 workers.

"Losing JCPenney could really hurt Coudersport," said Stan Swank, a vice-president with the Coudersport Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. "People come to Coudersport to shop at JCPenney and then they stop at other businesses, which helps our economy."

Chamber leaders are appealing to JCPenney to reconsider.

Last week, the Renaissance Committee, a group of Potter County strategic planners and community development volunteers, held an emergency meeting to develop an appeal to JCPenney.

Spokesman Doug Morley said the group wants to impress upon JCPenney corporate officials the value and marketing potential of a smalltown store.

"It would reflect well on JCPenney as an organization to emphasize a store that is part of a local community, in contrast to competitor Wal- Mart, which is usually a standalone store not linked with other local businesses," Morley said.

A separate effort is underway by the Potter County Redevelopment Authority and the federal and state elected officials representing Potter County.

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.