The Barrington Business Association wants you if you run a business in Barrington.

The BBA decided at its Tuesday night meeting at the Tyler Point Grille to kick off a membership drive.

For annual dues of $75 a year, said Lois Coppolino, co-director of the association, you can reap the following benefits:

• Networking with other business operators at its monthly meetings.
• Group advertising discounts
• Business-to-business discounts among BBA members
• Plenty of idea-sharing among members.
• More business driven to your store or shop through joint activities, promotions and events

For instance, the BBA is planning “artisan nights” at local stores for next September and October. Local artists will display their artwork once or twice a month in a store or shop in an effort to gain exposure and attract more customers to the stores.

Another example of a joint activity, said Coppolino, is a one-day Octoberfest being planned for Oct. 13. It will include a farmers’ market, hay rides and a haunted house created in the Barrington Senior Center in the lower level of the Peck building.

The business association also is the process of distributing its first full-color map of member stores and shops in Barrington.

The association also is looking into becoming a 501(c)(7) nonprofit organization.

The BBA was born about 15 months ago. Members meet every second Tuesday of the month – except July and August -- at 7 pm at a local business, such as the Tyler Point Grille.

You will be contacted soon about membership by a fellow Barrington business operator. In the meantime, contact Coppolino at her store, Daisy Dig’ins Florists and Gifts, 123 Maple Ave., or by calling 245-0580 if you want to join or want more information about membership.