Mandy Jones, Membership Director

The mission statement of the Yuba-Sutter Chamber of Commerce is to "create and promote a community climate where businesses are productive and profitable." Because this is our mission, the Chamber's mantra for this year is "Shop Local- Shop Chamber". We are hearing from our local businesses that they are struggling and trying to find new ways to attract customers. If you are a business owner, here are some questions for your consideration. Do you do your banking out of town? Did you purchase your alarm system or your office supplies from the internet? Does your car license plate show it was purchased in another town and serviced there? Are you seeing a trend here? Here is some advice that isn't hard or expensive:

$ Spend your money locally where your business is located. Get a copy of the Yuba-Sutter Chamber of Commerce Business Directory located on the Chamber's website, www.yubasutterchamber.com and do business with the people on that list. As you shop, introduce yourself to the business owner or manager and let them know you are also a local business or a Chamber member.

$ Get involved with the Chamber and community. Attend a Business Connection Breakfast, Business After Hours or a Ribbon Cutting. Join a local service club or organization. Did you know we have a list of the clubs and organizations on the Chamber website, www.yubasutterchamber.com?

$ Invite business people to visit your business. If you plan to meet someone, ask them to come to your business, if only for a cup of coffee. If you have something new or special to announce, let the Chamber know. For a small amount of money you can send a flier to every Chamber member through the Chamber's monthly mailer offering a discount or small gift they must pick up at your store. Make sure to meet them when they come in.

$ Reaching out within the community and getting to know the people is the most basic way to promote a business, and getting involved with the Chamber is the best way to accomplish this.

Every month in Business Today you will see a partial list of Yuba-Sutter Chamber of Commerce members (page 8). Different members will be listed every month. Please take a moment to look at the list. These are businesses that see value in our community. Do your part by supporting our local businesses, shop there, eat there, and use their services.

Do you want to find out more about being a member of the most dynamic business organization in the area? Do you want to become a vital link in our effort to improve the business climate and quality of life in the Yuba-Sutter area? If the answer is yes, please contact:

Mandy Jones

Membership Director

743-3497

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