Members of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce (MCOC) have elected a new president to head the organization during a meeting held at the Golf View Hotel on December 7, 2005.
The new president is Richard Longmore branch manager of Pan Caribbean Financial Services in Mandeville. Mr. Longmore’s election signals a revival of the organization, according to some members who also pointed out that it has been three years since the last annual general meeting was held. Businessmen, Mr. Danny Roumel and Calvin Lyn were elected first and second vice presidents, respectively. Outgoing president, Barry Bonito of the Astra Country Style Inn, has pledged his continued support of the Chamber.
Over the years, the MCOC was the voice of the business community and initiated a number of training projects for youths in the Mandeville area. It was the prime mover behind the formation of the Porus Craft Association, which brought together persons with skills in making craft in that and nearby communities. Today, that association is one of the most vibrant and has provided its members with better buying power and marketing skills.
In accepting the presidency, Mr. Longmore told the members that his goal will be to make the MCOC the true voice of the Manchester business community, while being accountable to its members. Longmore, who is 29 years old, the youngest person to ever head the organization, also said that he will be focusing on bringing projects to the table, which will mean economic growth with spin-offs that will enhance the life of the parish on a whole.
