To the editor:
Despite the nation’s struggling economy, Franklin County, Pa.’s economic tourism impact exceeded $247 million in direct sales in 2009. Visitors come into the area to enjoy a rich variety of restaurants, shopping opportunities, transportation and many forms of entertainment. The money they spend during their time in the county is quite helpful.
But, how do tourists find out about Franklin County? The Franklin County Visitors Bureau (FCVB) is the lead agency that develops and implements strategies to build the programs that ultimately bring in more visitors. The bureau supports the communities and organizations that sponsor events, attracting outsiders into the friendly confines of Franklin County.
Two of those communities (Greencastle, Pa., and Chambersburg, Pa.) brought in a number of history enthusiasts, re-enactors and hundreds of others during their commemorations of “Civil War 150” in April. Many people don’t realize how these small towns played a large role in United States history, but efforts are under way to fix that problem. The FCVB is committed to revitalizing and educating area residents by continuing to support events that help illustrate all that’s happened here.
“The Great Race” rolled into Chambersburg’s Memorial Square in June, with the drivers and navigators of more than 60 antique automobiles stopping to show off their cars, talk with townspeople and eat some lunch.
Participants in America’s premier car rally started the week in Tennessee before finishing in Vermont. Many of those involved said the people of Franklin County provided the warmest welcome and most impressive atmosphere they experienced during the race.
Attracting visitors requires focus and a strategy. The FCVB continues to influence and strengthen the economic fabric of Franklin County. For more information, please visit the Bureau’s website at www.ExploreFranklinCountyPA.com.
Bonnie A. Shockey
Secretary
FCVB Advisory Board
Republicans must stand united in 2012 race
To the editor:
I watched last week’s Republican presidential debate with great interest. I wanted to see who would look the most “presidential,” and which of the moderators would come up with the best “gotcha” question, and of course, which of the candidates would make the biggest gaffe.
We got to see all of the above, but at the end of the debate, I was left with one overwhelming feeling: Anyone on that stage would stand head and shoulders above the current occupant of the White House.
Letters to the Editor - Aug. 21
We have a wide-open race for the Republican nomination. This kind of competition is a good thing and will give all Republicans a chance to get involved and support someone who shares their views. Despite some differences, the one view that all Republicans share is that a second term for Barack Obama cannot be an option. Looking at the damage our current president has inflicted on the country in only 32 months, we can only imagine the chaos that would lie ahead of us with a lame duck Barack Obama in a second term.
Republicans need to compete hard and clean on behalf of their chosen candidate, but once the dust settles and a nominee is chosen, we need to unite and make sure that our candidate becomes the next president of the United States.
You can all do your part. Your Franklin County Republican Party will be working hard for our eventual nominee; registering new voters, running phone banks, going door to door, placing signs and distributing literature. We will need volunteers, so please give us a call or email us to put your name on our volunteer list. Our number is 717-263-7999 or you can email us at chairman@fcrc.comcastbiz.net.
Whether you can do a little or a lot, there is room for you!
Dwight D. Weidman
Chairman
Franklin County Republican Committee
