winthrop chamber of commerce Tourism is Maine’s most important industry, generating many billions of dollars in sales and tax revenue each year. It is estimated that in 2008 the state hosted more than 15 million overnight visitors and more than 16 million day visitors. But how does tourism have an impact on the state and what will the tourism trends be in the months and years to come?

At the Winthrop Area Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting on Thursday, March 4, Michael Conley, manager of advertising and membership sales for the Maine Tourism Association, will make a presentation about what’s happening with respect to tourism in the state. Included in his presentation will be newly available information that has been compiled and distributed by the Maine Office on Tourism.

In his role for the nonprofit Maine Tourism Association, Conley has addressed numerous chambers throughout the state on tourism-related issues. He has an extensive sales background in publishing, retail, and classical music.  He is currently the president of the board of directors of the Augusta Symphony Orchestra and books folk acts both locally and for the Uncommon Coffeehouse in Framingham, Massachusetts. Conley lives in Manchester with his wife and their two children.

The Winthrop Area Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting on Thursday, March 4 will be held at the Winthrop Area Federal Credit Union (located at the intersection of Route 202 and Highland Avenue in Winthrop). The cost is $5 per person, to be paid at the door. A light breakfast will be provided beginning at 7:15 am and the meeting will start at 7:30 am and end promptly at 8:30 am. The meeting, which is generously sponsored by Brian S. Berry & Associates, CPAs, is open to the public. No reservations are required.

For more detailed information about this event and/or the Winthrop Area Chamber of Commerce, please go to www.winthropchamber.org, call 207-377-8020, or send an email to info@winthropchamber.org.