The Glacier Reporter

Occasionally we run across an article or a report that we wish we could believe. At other times we receive a reliable report and pass it on to someone with hopes that it might be taken seriously and eventually do some good. We cite two examples:

At a recent Chamber of Commerce meeting the question arose as to how to best spend money to advertise Browning to the tourist, and what results we could expect. After listening to several opinions I ventured the facts and findings of a nationally recognized and reliable polling agency wherein they stated that only 17 per cent of the traveling tourists listen to their car radio . . . The reaction was a silent stare which I interpreted as meaning, "Poor soul, you have popped your last cork in defense of printed advertising."

I dropped the subject in view of the fact that I realize some people just can't be convinced of a true fact . . . unless the right person presents the fact.

Now comes a report from the president of a nationally recognized historical fact-finding institution, which I should like to believe. I quote: "Reconstruction and preservation of historic landmarks has meant a new surge of economic growth to many rundown areas," says a Washington authority. Richard I. Howland, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, told the National Council on Community Foundations, Inc. "Daily 24 tourists a day through an area leave more money in one year than a business with a $100,000 payroll."

I will admit that the report was a little hazy, but this man has apparently made a study of the situation, and we assume that he means that the 24 tourists must stop in a community. Nevertheless, it all adds up to the same point if we expect to profit from the tourist passing through Browning, we must make this effort to make our community attractive enough so they will want to stop. We must provide something to give them at least a few minutes entertainment in the evening and make it possible some sort of printed illustrated brochure or literature they can take home to show their friends and to send out to vacation-planners in advance of tourist season.

One thing, stand as the present advertising committees have worked out an advertising program and a dues assessment roster but nothing has been done about advertising. No collections have been made, and the Chamber treasurer is all but depleted. So what?