BRANCH COUNTY — The Chambers of Commerce plan to celebrate the local telephone area code, 517, May 17.

That's not something usually done. Coldwater Chamber Executive Director Lori Hunt explained that the idea is to bring residents to "Buy Local" at 517 local businesses.

Hunt said, "Businesses are encouraged to offer a product or service for $5.17 or $517. We have already heard from local restaurants that will offer $5.17 food or drink specials throughout the day."

The idea is to celebrate the local community, attract customers and clients to each business, and for businesses to promote each other.

Those participating will post flyers announcing their participation and the specials.

Any business, whether a member of any local chamber or not, is welcome to offer 517 specials.

Branch County Association of Realtors®, Bronson Chamber of Commerce, Coldwater Area Chamber of Commerce, Quincy Chamber of Commerce, and Union City Village Leaders are cooperating with the idea.

Hunt suggests businesses use the day to build a customer base with the specials. "We encourage business owners to create some kind of gift to be given away at the end of the day for which your customer must register."

The chambers suggested that the business use the registration forms to create or add to their email or direct mail list.

Hunt said, "The giveaway gift could be a gift certificate to your store, a gift basket, or an item from your business."

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The idea came after the success of the "Love Local" February promotion in Coldwater.

— Contact Don Reid: dReid@Gannett.com

This article originally appeared on Coldwater Daily Reporter: Branch County Chambers 517-area code sales promotion Friday May 17