To complete a very successful first month of the 2010 Shop Laurens County First campaign, the Laurens County Chamber of Commerce will hold its first monthly drawing of $200 Laurens County Bucks today.

According to Chamber President and CEO Greg Alexander, local businesses submitted the names they drew of people who participated in the program at their location. The winner of today's drawing will be awarded their “bucks” next week at the location that submitted that person's name.

A new round of $10,000 “bucks” will also go on sale on Monday, August 2. With only $10,000 “bucks” available for purchase each month, Alexander said residents should not wait to buy theirs as July's supply was sold in the first three days of the month.

Consumers can purchase up to $200 worth of bucks at a time at a 20 percent discounted rate for all bucks purchased, no matter the amount. Bucks can be purchased from Clinton Federal Credit Union, the Main Street Branch of The Palmetto Bank in Laurens or at the Chamber of Commerce office.

“Pick a location and get there early,” said Alexander.

Alexander said that over 100 local businesses are now accepting Laurens County “bucks.” The Chamber is keeping a spreadsheet of where those “bucks” are being spent, and Alexander said that the businesses have ranged from restaurants and grocery stores to car dealerships.

So far, 20 of the participating businesses have exchanged their “bucks” at the Chamber for real dollars, but Alexander said that number would begin to rise as consumers begin their holiday shopping.

“We're expecting more businesses to be involved as the holiday seasons approach,” said Alexander. “We will see more diversity in the program.”

In addition to 20 percent discount already built in to buying Laurens County “bucks”, Alexander said some businesses are offering additional discounts for participating in the campaign. As an example, Alexander said that Firmin Ford is giving customers an additional ten percent discount on all parts and services to those who pay with the “bucks.”

The Shop Laurens County First campaign will continue through the rest of 2010 and will end in December. To see a full list of participating businesses, please click here.