Greetings from the president’s desk

Autumn is upon us and along with the vibrant colors and crisp air comes the opportunity to support the many different events of the River Valley. I encourage you to get out and enjoy YOUR River Valley community.

Here it is October — mark your calendars, you don’t want to miss any of the wonderful things happening in YOUR community. The Pumpkinfest on Saturday, Oct. 11, in downtown Rumford is sure to have something for everyone. Kicking it off will be the Downtown Dash 5K, hosted by YOUR Chamber. Pre-register early by calling Sandy Witas at 207-364-7408 and get a tech T-shirt.

Have breakfast at the American Legion Post 24 that morning before going to Pumpkinfest. Bring your kids or grandkids out for the kid’s tent and activities throughout the day, trick or treating from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

There will be plenty of things to do for the adults. too. There will be a display of the craved pumpkins starting at 7 p.m. that evening and ending with a band and dancing in the streets. The Pumpkinfest starts at 11 a.m. and goes into the evening. While you’re on “the island” do a little shopping and support your community merchants. It’s a great chance to get that Christmas shopping started while shopping locally.

Don’t forget to stop on over to The HOPE Association on Lincoln Avenue for their annual Oktoberfest from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18. They will be serving a hot pancake breakfast and will also have lunch available.

There will be more than 25 crafters selling their wares and an opportunity to purchase YOUR River Valley Chamber of Commerce “Stash for Cash” tickets. For $5 you’ll have the chance to win money every weekday during November. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity!

Whatever you enjoy doing; take the time to enjoy it here, in YOUR “community.” This is the River Valley community’s opportunity to come together, to work, to live to try and to make this community’ standard of living and quality of life better. I urge you to support YOUR COMMUNITY.