We asked 8 key questions to get her perspective on why these changes are being made and why Manchester Matters has always been and will continue to be an integral part of the town’s continuous goal of improving civic engagement and communications.

1. How have the communication needs of residents changed over the years?

Doreen: Manchester has long been on the forefront of technology, and that has allowed residents to quickly and easily access information and services. For instance, 20 years ago we were mailing out hundreds of Road Race registrations. Now people around the world can register instantly online.

2. Why was Manchester Matters created?

Doreen: This email service was created to deliver both municipal and community information right to the subscriber’s in-box, enabling the user to be knowledgeable about Manchester’s events without the need to go searching. The service was launched in November of 2001. The NAMCO explosion in July was a catalyst for us to implement this tool to reach large numbers of residents via email with the click of a button.

3. Why are e-newsletters important?

Doreen: If you live or work in Manchester, you don’t want to miss out on programs and events that are available to you, or activities or deadlines that may impact you, such as summer camp registration, concerts, water main cleaning, and property tax relief, as just a few examples.

4.  What types of information can be found on MM?

Doreen: News about voting, taxes, leaf collection, committee meetings, road construction, fire safety, Town jobs, dog licensing, special events, and programs offered by the libraries, schools, health and recreation departments.

5. Do you have any interesting stories that stand out in your memory related to Manchester Matters?

Doreen: Aside from the day-to-day news, Manchester Matters is also an important tool in preparing for and recovering from emergencies. In 2011 alone we had an historic winter with record snow accumulations and roof collapses, Hurricane Irene in August, and Snowstorm Alfred in October. Manchester Matters provides critical information to keep our community safe.

6. What kind of impact has Manchester Matters had on the community?

Doreen: The newsletter gives the community awareness and the opportunity to be involved and connected. We often hear, “I learned about this from Manchester Matters!”

7.  What do you love most about Manchester?

Doreen: The people and their heritage. So many people I have met over the years have their roots here and have such interesting stories to share. The history here is so rich and speaks of community. The Cheney family focused on ensuring the quality of life for their workers and the residents, and that laid the foundation for services that are provided today.

8. What do you think separates Manchester from other towns?

Doreen: Manchester is fortunate to offer such a variety of important services for all ages at the municipal level, ranging from Recreation, Human Services, and the Senior Center, to the Water & Sewer Dept and the Transfer Station, as well as having a hospital and a community college in town.