When was the last time you unfolded the 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 the darn things 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 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, Steve Peglow, an incredible local artist we work with, found a niche with his unique form of community and development maps. And I have also learned firsthand how residents at Lake Panorama appreciate their wall maps to get a better grasp of the local geography.
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. The chamber wanted more — and quickly. This printed map was so popular that we decided to do some in other areas, too, and this became a growing segment of our business. We hope to soon publish maps here in Guthrie County, too.
Maybe my friend Greg was onto something, or maybe he was just on something. Either way, I am going to hang on to the trusty Rand McNally in my glove box — just in case.
Enjoy mapping out your week, and, as always, thanks for reading.
Thanks for reading.
Shane Goodman
Editor and Publisher
Times Vedette digital newsletter
shane@dmcityview.com
641-755-2115