Now, if you join the YMCA and show your valid SPJ membership card, save $75 instantly off the joining fee.

So, how does this work? Well, if you don't belong to the Y and join now you get $75 off the joining fee. For families wanting to get a membership, the joining fee is typically $150. With a valid SPJ membership card, make that $75. If you're single, the fee is normally $125. Now, with your card, get it for $50. There's no discount on the monthly rate, which right now is $71 and $50, for families and individuals, respectively. How do you get to join SPJ for $7. Well, saving $75 on a Y membership would make only an extra $7 you'd have to pay to join SPJ. Whadda deal!

Unfortunately, if you're already a member there is no discount. But the Y pointed out there's a little-known incentive for current YMCA members to get new members to join. When you join, even at the discounted rate, if you mention a current Y member as having recommend you, then the current member will get one free month. So, if you're an SPJ member and a Y member already, please send me your name. I can post this on the Web site and ask members who join to mention an SPJ member when they join. This way we all can benefit.

To find your nearest YMCA of Greater Cincinnati Branch, visit http://www.cincinnatiymca.org/. Plans are underway to include the Dayton YMCA in this program. More information will follow.