CAMERON COUNTY CHAMBER OFFICE MOVING ACROSS STREET
By Alex Davis Endeavor News

Cameron County executive director Tina John Lorson said the digs at the former Lundberg Pharmacy and Gift will give the chamber more visibility and room and ultimately enable the organization to provide better services to its members.

Cameron County Chamber of Commerce will be relocating to a more prominent downtown Emporium location on July 1.

Executive Director Tina Johns Lorson announced that the office will move into the former Lundberg's Pharmacy and Gifts building on Fourth Street. Currently the Chamber is located on South Cherry Street.

Half of the building will be shared by Cameron County Artists Center, a co-op showcasing the talents of juried artists.

"The decision to move took months," Lorson said. "It was not taken lightly."

Inside will be a board room, reception area, classroom and a "mud room," where artists will keep supplies.

Lorson said 11 artists have signed up and she expects 15 more to come on aboard. They'll teach classes on stained glass, drawing, painting, wood carving, glass blowing and jewelry making.

It's part of the Pennsylvania Wilds Artisan Trail initiative, where 12 counties, including Potter, feature artists. The center will be promoted at rest areas, as well as by tourist agencies and on the internet.

A Cameron County survey confirmed strong interest in art. Previously, if people wanted to take art classes, often they were forced to travel to neighboring towns.

"This will promote an interest in art in Cameron County," Lorson said. "I am so excited."

Minor renovations will take place to the building, which is owned by Blair and Linda Lundberg, including erecting a facade, replacing carpeting, installing sinks and adding electrical outlets.

High school junior Meredith Caldwell is assisting. "She has been a big help," Lorson said, adding that it's valuable to have a younger perspective. The Chamber is also working alongside with the Cameron County Arts.

Chamber moved to its current location after a fire destroyed its office in 2003.

For more information, contact the Chamber at 486- 4314.