We all know that in these difficult economic times that we often put aside paperwork that crosses our desk reflecting on membership to different organizations, etc. For those of us who have put aside the renewal form for our River Valley Chamber membership, we encourage you to dig that one out and send it in today.

Being a member of the Chamber is the first step to increasing area knowledge of your business and service. The Chamber’s membership has access to exclusive benefits; however, it is still the responsibility of your business to take advantage of these opportunities. Use the list below to ensure that your Chamber membership is working for you.

RVCC Gift Certificates: This program is the perfect way to promote local business when gift-giving season is upon us. These certificates are only good at member businesses There is no charge to participate; you retain 100% of the value.

Telephone & Email Referrals: Our office receives many phone calls and e-mails of potential customers who have a need, but don’t know where to fulfill it. We refer only our members to these inquiries.

Ribbon Cuttings: Have a new location? Let the Chamber host a ribbon cutting to officially open the doors to the public. A great way to christen your new headquarters and get FREE media attention.

Chamber News Brief: This is inserted into the Sun Journal monthly and has loads of information about the Chamber and its members goings on.

Weekly Events: This weekly e-mail publication is distributed to all of our members, providing insight to local events and sponsored programs of the Chamber and our partners. Include your promotion, event or advertisement here.

Four Seasons Guide: This comprehensive guide is mailed to the seven State Information Centers as well as to other Chambers of Commerce from Caribou to Boston. The Four Seasons Guide is distributed to local lodges, as well as the Rumford Information Center where our staff ensures that every visitor leaves with a copy. They are also sent out in re-location packages.

Business After Hours: Host your friends, family and other Chamber members at a fun and informative networking opportunity. The Business After Hours program offers a personal look into your business and staff, while promoting your service to potential customers.

Membership Directory: As a member, you have exclusive access to our membership list for FREE, empowering you with the ability to conduct your own advertising efforts. Membership lists are only distributed to members, and never sold to a third party.

The Chamber Web site: www.rivervalleychamber.com Our Web site is browsed by hundreds of local and non-local visitors every month. These potential customers rely on our Web site to convey the business diversity our region has to offer.

Relocation & Visitor Packets: Distributed to residents interviewing with local area businesses, and by local real-estate agents, inclusion of your material into our relocation packages is a perfect first impression for potential life-long customers.

Chamber Chatter: Each week, the Chamber submits a piece of information to the Rumford Falls Times Chamber Chatter section. Read by hundreds of residents weekly, it’s the perfect way to inform the residents of the River Valley of the going-ons of the Chamber and its members.

Information Center: This visitor hot-spot, located with a spectacular view of the Pennacook Falls, is frequented by thousands of documented visitors (those who have signed the guestbook) to the area. Make sure we have a full stock of your latest business brochures and cards at the center.

If you have not sent back your membership renewal form, do so now before it’s too late and your business is removed from our membership list, Web site, etc. Don’t miss out on the benefits that the Chamber has to offer you today. We are stronger in numbers; join us today!

For further information, contact the Chamber at 364-3241 or e-mail [email protected].