The best marketing in the long run is giving visitors a good experience. We introduced “Vermont Today”; a television show on Channel 12 (RSN Network), which airs 4 times a day. Not only does this program provide visitors and locals with information to find out “what’s happening” in the region, but also provides a great marketing opportunity for our members. The free summer “Concerts on the Green” at the Manchester Town Green, are very popular and always packed with community and visitors alike.

      Surveys were also done in 2002 to find out who rides the free buses. These buses run twice in the morning and twice in the afternoon. The Manchester/Rutland bus is provided by the Marble Valley Transit Authority (The Bus) and the Green Mountain Chapter of the American Red Cross, which also runs the Manchester local bus, provides the Manchester/Bennington bus. Since funding is always at issue, these statistics were used to help convince the legislature to keep the bus funding available.

Economic growth is always on our minds. At a time when the world economy is up and down, it is always a challenge to bring in new businesses to the community, new members to the Chamber and support them with the tools they need to be successful.
      Recently we met with Manchester Town officials and discussed how the Chamber can help inform the public of thoughts, ideas, and visions of town fathers. We were pleased to learn that two bike and walk trails have been started from the center of town for about 2 miles north. The plan is to continue them farther. The original Town Green permit application included a gazebo and with approval from the recreation department committee as well as design and zoning permits it could soon become reality. Displaying schools artwork, local artists, and craftsman wares in empty storefronts, a campaign to light up Manchester with holiday lights and another banner across the road are topics under discussion.

      The Chamber of Commerce is a very busy place with many things going on simultaneously. We continue to enjoy our involvement with and in the community as well as helping our many visitors enjoy all the region has to offer.