In 2005, the Manchester and the Mountains Chamber of Commerce launched "A Horse Affair," a whole herd of 21 artist-decorated, life-sized thoroughbreds. Area businesses sponsored the horses, and area artists donated their considerable talent towards making them come to life.

The brainchild of Chamber president Pat Barnett, this non-profit venture not only raised money to market our area and promote the arts, but a portion of the proceeds went to support the Manchester Area Arts Partnership (MAAP). MAAP is a collaboration of diverse cultural and business organizations committed to promoting and enhancing the arts in the Manchester area.