Midcoast — Being the father of a four and a half year old brings infinite rewards at this time of year (even if one of the rewards involves blearily opening the flaps on the advent calendar at 4:30am on a daily basis for 24 days). Since becoming a parent I think I’m more in tune with the rhythm of the holidays; noticing the spring in a neighbor’s step because her kids are coming for Christmas, seeing the bustle on local Main Streets as more than an economics case study, and reveling in the warm energy given off by friends and strangers alike.

From a Chamber point of view, the Christmas period has been a bully pulpit to emphasize the message that local businesses need support from all of us. It has been heartening to see shoppers out and about in our communities, as well as diners, tree buyers, and more. Once the holiday hubbub passes let’s not forget that our merchants, services and restaurants need our support year-round, and that a healthy local economy is not just about retail but where we conduct other business; from banking to furniture restoration to business-to-business transactions and more.

 And for the businesses themselves, if you are not already a member of your local Chamber I strongly urge you to buy yourself a present this Christmas and sign up.

A Chamber membership is, as the cliché has it, a gift that keeps on giving. Joining the Chamber is a key business strategy. No matter the size or demographic of your specific market, the Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce has a solution to assist you in reaching your goals. We can help you broaden your customer base: whether your needs involve local networking, or print and internet promotion, the chamber’s outreach opportunities offer communication tools to enhance your message. And by being a Chamber member you participate in your local community, making a difference in the lives of your friends and neighbors.

Findings from a recent Schapiro Group research study indicate the real value of joining a local Chamber of Commerce. The report states that “When a company is active in its local chamber, it is doing the right thing not only for the community but for its own success as well” because “When a consumer thinks that a company’s products stack up better against the competition because the company is highly involved in its local chamber of commerce, it is because he or she infers that the company is trustworthy, involved in the community, and is an industry leader.”  Respondents to this research survey felt that businesses active in the local chamber were 13% more likely to care about their customers, and that respondents perceived chamber members as 26% more reputable and 29% more likely to implement good business practices. Chamber membership: not a bad gift to give your business, and your customers, this holiday season.

So as we gather with family and friends to celebrate, relax, and enjoy the season I intend to give thanks for the communities the Chamber serves and I look forward to sharing my thoughts with you (and welcoming some of you into the Chamber) in 2012. From all of us here at the Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce, happy holidays and a merry Christmas!