When was the last time you unfolded a trusty Rand McNally map and used it to determine how to get from Point A to Point B while in your vehicle? I am guessing it has been a while. Most of us now rely on the GPS maps installed on our phones or in our vehicles. They are quicker, easier and we don’t have to figure out how to fold them back together. 

Meanwhile, aside from driving, maps can still be handy. Like when you are at an event or conference and need something that shows everywhere you need to be. Or when you are shopping in an area with multiple locations and want to plan your route. And especially when you are on a ski slope and need to make sure you don’t end up on a black diamond when you were expecting a green.

Not too many years ago, my friend Greg suggested that we print “one of those spiral-bound book of maps.” In the midst of his 7-minute explanation of what it could be, I finally interrupted him and said, “You mean an atlas?” His response was like one of those Gilda Radner “never mind” looks. 

Meanwhile, just a few years ago, we were contacted by a chamber of commerce to create a printed community shopping map. We published it, and, within weeks, they were all gone. They wanted more — and quickly. This printed map was so popular that we decided to do some in other areas, too.

We now publish nine of these community maps, including in Panora and Guthrie Center/Casey.  Other maps include Historic Valley Junction, Winterset, Uptown Ankeny, Ingersoll/Grand Avenues, Beaverdale neighborhood, Drake neighborhood and Historic East Village.

For those who prefer the digital options, we created an online interactive map that is easily used on a phone, showing the same information while also offering details and sale information from area businesses that “pop up” when you touch their icon. Check out all the maps here and “click for interactive map.”

If all that technology is not your thing, and you just want a simple paper map, we understand and we are glad to help. Look for the Panora and Guthrie Center/Casey maps at dozens of retail locations in the area or stop by our office in Guthrie Center at 104 Industrial Road.

Maybe my friend Greg was onto something, or maybe he was just on something. Either way, I keep these trusty maps in my glove box along with my Rand McNally atlas — just in case. And if you are interested in having us publish one of these maps in your community, please contact me to learn how.

Enjoy mapping out your week, and, as always, thanks for reading. 

Shane Goodman
Editor and Publisher
Times Vedette digital newsletter
shane@gctimesnews.com
641-332-2707