It may seem early, but local stores are gearing up for the holiday shopping season, and many are more optimistic about this year. As Christmas merchandise hits the shelves at Shopko seasonal hires are soon to follow, and this year's holiday hiring looks to be better than years past. Shopko is increasing it's numbers of cashiers, staff on the sales floor and customer service as it prepares for extended hours and holiday shoppers. Locally, Joann Fabrics and Target confirm they're hiring more seasonal staff too, while nationally stores such as Toys R Us, American Eagle, Pier 1 and Boarders plan to do the same. Retailers are expected to add between 550,000 to 650,000 jobs this holiday season. That's more than the 501,000 added last year, but still well below the 721,000 added in 2007 before the recession began. The jobs probably won't dent the nation's nearly 10 percent unemployment rate, but those hired may consider it an early Christmas present. Not every retailer plans to increase hiring this season. Other big chains like Walmart and Best Buy expect hiring to be flat. Jenna Sachs has the story.