BETHEL, ME— Visitors to the western Maine town of Bethel can fill up their gas tanks this summer courtesy of the Chamber of Commerce and area innkeepers. The promotion, “Tanks for the Memories,” offers a free fill-up (up to $20) with a stay of three or more nights including weekends from now until Oct. 15, 2005. The promotion was developed to address the rising cost of auto travel for the summer traveler. “Bethel is a round-trip tank away from southern New England urban centers. We want to let vacationers know about the variety of activities, lodging and dining that is less than a tank away,” said Robin Zinchuk, executive director of the Bethel Area Chamber of Commerce. Bethel has many attractions including the Sunday River Ski Resort, championship golf courses, canoeing and fishing on the Androscoggin River, day hikes in the White Mountain National Forest, horseback riding, antique shopping and gem hunting, noted Allen Connors, manager of the Bethel Inn Resort Country Club. To be eligible for the “Tanks for the Memories” promotion, reservations must be made through the Bethel Area Reservation Service at 800-442-5826. Travelers will receive their gas money at check-out.
