Corning, NY - February 22, 2011 - Corning's Gaffer District is pleased to welcome back Connors Mercantile as the title sponsor for the 2011 Crystal City Christmas Events Season.

Following a successful holiday season and sponsorship in 2010, the anchor retail property, located at 16 East Market Street, will join Corning's Gaffer District in support of the holiday events, including Holidazzle, the Window of Gifts Giveaway, the Centerway Tree Lighting, Parade of Lights and 37^th annual Sparkle.

Connors Mercantile joined Corning's Gaffer District in presenting the 2010 Crystal City Christmas events season, which proved to be a great benefit to the store and its customers.  With numerous 35^th anniversary promotions, seasonal sales and participation in the events calendar, Connors was easily identified as a shopping hot spot during the holiday season.

Reflecting on the success of 2010, store manager Jill Agosta notes, "As the title sponsor for the Crystal City Christmas 2010, it was very exciting for Connors Mercantile to celebrate all the Holiday events in the Gaffer District.  We have had a great response from our customers and neighboring Gaffer District businesses. We are committed to the community and will continue to provide great customer service and a unique shopping experience for our customers.  Connors Mercantile is pleased to move forward in 2011 as the title sponsor for Crystal City Christmas." 

Coleen Fabrizi, Executive Director of Corning's Gaffer District, notes, "We are delighted to renew the sponsorship agreement with Connors Mercantile for the 2011 Crystal City Christmas Events Season. We share a focus of providing quality customer service and creating memorable experiences for both new and returning customers to Corning's Gaffer District. "

From its humble beginnings in 1975 as the "gift" section in a family-owned pharmacy in the Gaffer District, through its move and expansion as a mercantile in 1998 to the present location on Market Street, Connors Mercantile has become a destination retail venue for Twin Tier locals and tourists alike.  It's prominent history in downtown Corning includes a rally of supporters, including founders Barbara and George Connors, several loyal employees, neighboring Gaffer District businesses, and generations of customers.

For the complete roster of Crystal City Christmas events, visit www.gafferdistrict.com.