Just received my renewal for the American Alpine Club. I don't know what the offers are for new members, but in addition to the benefits and two books every year renewing members can get:

Alpinist at 40% off;
Rock and Ice year for $9.95;
20% off on a Patagonia order;
A Mountain Tools Webolette Anchor Sling ($24) with a $75 order.

I was going to get Alpinist anyway (already get R&I), and I have been looking at the Webolette. If I do these two things, I will essentially get free renewal. Take a look at the Club here:

http://www.americanalpineclub.org/