New thrift shop manager brings fresh perspective

PONDERAY — The Panhandle Animal Shelter Thrift Shoppe said goodbye in February to Karleen Angel, who decided it was time to retire and enjoy some “me” time.

Marie Friedmann has been hired as the new store manager to provide the store with a fresh perspective, said PAS executive director Mandy Evans.

Friedmann opened the boutique at Idaho Stone and was the assistant store manager for the Coldwater Creek retail store in downtown Sandpoint for many years. She brings a passion for customer service and retail sales along with a systematic approach to competitive pricing and merchandising.

Evans said the organization is excited to have Friedmann on the team.

“Marie is a hiring manager’s dream, she has the professional skills we were looking for and a contagious energy that translates into a fun, team orientated environment,” she added. “This is important to have when working not only with employees but a large volunteer base.”

Friedman said patrons and donors will see a more welcoming and customer-focused shopping experience at the shelter thrift store.

“We count on contributions from the community to fill our store and customers to come through our doors and purchase,” she said. “Both deserve a wonderful experience and a commitment to quality.”

Friedman said donors can feel confident their items will be out on the floor, priced appropriately and well displayed in a timely manner. For customers looking for a higher end shopping experience, a new boutique area has been created focused on more fashionable and name brand items, she added.

PAS relies on its thrift shoppe to cover more than 60 percent of its animal care expenses. Evans is proud of the organization’s commitment to a great community.

“Whether people can make a financial donation or not their hearts are usually in the right place,” she said. “Shopping or donating to The Panhandle Animal Shelter Thrift Shoppe is another way to help.”

Proceeds not only benefit the animals at the shelter but the store also helps financially-challenged families buy quality items at a low cost. In addition, the store donates items to people in need such as the elderly in local care facilities, the children at Kinderhaven and local homeless shelters.

Donations to the Panhandle Animal Shelter are tax deductable and can be sent to 870 Kootenai Cutoff Road, Ponderay, ID 83854.

The Panhandle Animal Shelter serves Bonner County and surrounding communities, providing for about 1,600 lost, abandoned, neglected and abused animals every year. At the shelter cats and dogs receive a safe, nurturing environment and the opportunity to be placed into qualified new adoptive homes. PAS programs also assist in the safe and prompt return of lost pets; in population control by spay/neutering animals prior to adoption and community outreach education.

Information: Mandy Evans, 304-8285 or mandy@pasidaho.org