“The public is invited to travel to the river town area of Columbia, Marietta, and Wrightsville to shop, dine, and visit during the Passport to River Towns program. Quaint antique shops, interactive museums, cozy eateries, and shops located off the beaten path are among the venues highlighted in this initiative coordinated by the Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce.  A variety of local businesses have signed on as program vendors and are busy designing Passport to River Towns benefits for the participating public. This program, which showcases participating businesses in the region by designating each as a travel destination for passport holders, will run on weekends beginning Friday, January 18, 2013, and ending Sunday, February 17, 2013. Paperwork which accompanies the passport will verify hours of operation for each venue.  Some businesses may be closed on Sundays, while others may extend their offers throughout the week.

“Passport to River Towns offers participants specially-designed discounts or promotions awarded only to holders of an SVCC program passport. When visiting participating venues, simply show the Passport to River Towns document, get a destination ”stamp”, and enjoy the program benefit offered at that locale. Program benefits will vary by location.  Discover some hidden gems of the region when you visit.

“Program benefits extend beyond the on-site promotions. Those who manage to receive an approved vendor stamp from each participating business may enter their completed passport in a prize drawing.  The drawing for these prizes will be held at the SVCC Visitors Center on Monday, February 25, 2013.  Completed passports must be submitted by the Friday before the drawing to qualify for entry.

“The price for each passport is easily recouped in the discounts and benefits of the program.  At a cost of $5.00, Passport to River Towns is an affordable opportunity to enjoy a day out with family or friends.  Passports are currently available for sale at the Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center and many participating businesses including Geltz Götz Goodeze, Hinkle’s Pharmacy, John Wright Store and Restaurant, Jonal Gallery/Alverta Arts Shop, Rivertowne Antique Center, Sisters’ Treasures, Trin’s Beans Café, and Watermelon Rind. Other participating businesses include The Inn at Bully’s Restaurant and Pub, Shank’s Tavern, and The Turkey Hill Experience. Passports will remain available for sale until the end of the Passport to River Towns program.

“For more information on the Passport to River Towns promotion, contact the Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center at 684-5249. Proceeds benefit the Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center.”