Virtual businesses are growing as more entrepreneurs are
starting their businesses out of their homes. They're so popular, said Pike
County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Scott Weiland, that his monthly
newsletter devotes a special section to them.
And people hustling for last-minute gifts and ideas need
not struggle with traffic getting to brick-and-mortar establishments. Here is a
mixture of both business approaches that can help find that unique present:
Cost: $20 each for cards, which entitles cardholder to
unlimited discounts for up for 16 months until the following Dec. 31.
Categories: There are more than 200 participating
businesses, including restaurants, home improvements, auto services, beauty
salons, alarm systems, carpet and upholstery cleaners, dog grooming, gift
stores, health and fitness centers.
Names of participating businesses include: Organic
Warehouse, MassageAcademy of the Poconos,
Marita's Mexican Restaurants, Big Wheel, and Shawnee Inn. Manka is a member of
the Greater Pocono Chamber of Commerce and WBOA and PoconoWomen.
How to buy them: Cards can be bought by check or online
(received by mail in seven to 10 days) or bought and picked up at select
businesses.
Reason for startup of business: "I wanted a business
that would help everyone in the Poconos — businesses, consumers, nonprofits and
the environment.
Savings: Averages about 10 to 20 percent, said Manka, and
up to 35 percent in some cases.
A good cause: Each card purchased gives half of the $20
purchase price to participating nonprofits of the purchaser's choice. For
nonprofit organizations, Pocono Gold Discount sets up the group with a link on
the site and can start selling the cards, with half of the sum going back to
their organization.
Concerns surrounding store gift cards: "Card
purchasers don't have to worry because there are unlimited discounts to a
variety of businesses. Unlike a gift card, which is only good in one store, you
have over 200 businesses to choose from so there's less concern. In fact, we
added three more businesses this week. On average, we add about 10 to 20
businesses per month."
Janet H - Bartonsville told us: "I had been going to the Massage School on Phillips St. in Stroudsburg a few times for a massage before seeing the Gold Card Logo on the front door. I showed them my card and am now receiving $5 off each massage. They are extremely helpful there. I think it is great!"
B.A. - Effort, PA told us: "Have paid for my Pocono Gold Discount Card several times with savings from its use."
Pam C - Mt. Pocono told us: "I've had the card for only 2 months and have already saved more than the cost of it. I've even found some great new businesses in my area that I'd never been to before. It's great, thanks"
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