Nov. 15--Two weeks before Thanksgiving, Northeast Pennsylvania retailers are already decking the halls for the holidays.

Businesses across the region have pulled out decorations and discounts early this year in hopes of heading off what analysts say may be a blue Christmas for retailers.

"I actually think they're on the mark," said early shopper Patrice Bonin of Dunmore. "Usually right after Halloween is when I see (decorations) go up."

According to a recent survey by the National Retail Federation, two-thirds of Americans say the poor economy will affect their holiday plans this year, and 43 percent of Americans say sales and discounts will decide where they shop.

The Mall at Steamtown and the Viewmont Mall seem to have taken note of these numbers, as a multistory Christmas tree and holiday lights are already up at the downtown mall, and Santa Claus is expected to make his first appearance at Viewmont on Saturday.

Shoppers should have no problem finding early holiday bargains in stores this season as many are already rolling out Black Friday-like deals in an effort to get consumers' money before they run out.

Sears will hold "Black Friday Now" promotions every Saturday from 7 a.m. until noon from now until Christmas, while Target will offer free shipping for online purchases.

Best Buy is holding an "Early-Bird Thanksgiving" sale for online shoppers this weekend, while Toys "R" Us will hold a "Door Busters Mega Sale" beginning at 7 a.m. Saturday.

More than 25 other retailers have also advertised early sales on the National Retail Federation's Shop.org.

"They're trying to get the people into the stores because business is down," said shopper Kathy Lewis of Scranton. "I think all the stores have already had certain percentages off items to build revenue."

According to the National Retail Federation, nearly 40 percent of Americans planned to start their holiday shopping before Halloween this year, and nearly 40 percent more planned to start in November.

"I'm normally an early shopper," Ms. Lewis said. "Usually I'm about done by Black Friday."

Contact the writer: cfoley@timesshamrock.com

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