Newfound Lake Area Map 2022 Kickoff On October 6
September 28, 2021 6:52 amPlans are underway for the 2022 Newfound Lake Area map, produced by Newfound Independence. Businesses interested in participating in next year’s map are invited to an informational meeting on October 6th at 6 pm at the Bridgewater Town Hall. The gathering is a chance for businesses unfamiliar with the map to learn more, and for those already participating to discuss ideas for improving the 2022 edition.
Joining Businesses on Newfound Lake
The Newfound Lake Area map project was developed by the local business organization Newfound Independence in 2020 as a fun and positive way to promote businesses in the communities around the lake. The group, which was the brainchild of Holly Kerouac of the Newfound Country Store and Garlyn Manganiello of Basic Ingredients, was formed to bring locally-owned businesses together and to promote the positive economic benefits of shopping locally. The Town of Bristol has been working with Newfound Independence recently to find ways to further support the business community.
The network of local small businesses includes the communities surrounding Newfound Lake, including Bristol, Bridgewater, Hebron and Alexandria.
Newfound Independence’s first endeavor was the 2020 Newfound Lake Area map. The group printed and distributed 10,000 maps to participating local businesses to help show both residents and visitors the wide range of businesses and services available in the area. For a $100 investment, businesses would get the place of business shown on the illustrated map, as well as an ad on the back. In addition, businesses that participate in the map are featured on the Newfound Independence Facebook page.
The map has also become a way to highlight local artists. The first map was created by artist Charles Kuizinas of Cosmic Moose Art, followed by artist Don Hundgen of Hundelrut Studio in 2021. This year, Newfound Independence has commissioned Meredith artist Richard Mundy to create the Newfound Lake Area map.
What’s New for 2022?
Newfound Independence will share what’s new this year at the meeting on October 6. For those businesses not familiar with the annual map project, this is your chance to learn more. The group would also like to get thoughts on improvements from businesses that have participated in the past. Some ideas Newfound Independence would like to discuss include how it might be able to show non-storefront businesses on the map, and how it can expand marketing of local businesses beyond Facebook.
Businesses interested in participating should bring a business card to provide to the map artists.
Why Shop Local
Newfound Independence is dedicated to promoting local businesses, understanding that they are stronger when they work together. By their very nature, the independent store is unique in its ambiance, selection and customer service. These business owners are your friend or neighbor, and are there to respond to your questions and provide a special and unique experience.
Local business owners are truly part of the community. They support other local organizations, charities and activities and are all involved in the community effort. Newfound Independence hopes residents recognize that when you shift your shopping to locally owned, independent businesses, you support your own community, neighbors, and economy.
Newfound Independence Volunteers
Volunteer members of Newfound Independence working group are: Holly Kerouac of Newfound Country Store, Garlyn Manganiello of Basic Ingredients, Denice DeStefano of Granite Group Realty Services, Barbara Comeau of Riverside Artisans, Dave Redman of Dave Redman Photography, and Carolyn Shulman of Granite Group Realty Services.
Newfound Independence is always looking for more volunteers to oversee and help coordinate the work of Newfound Independence and the 2022 area map. To get involved, contact Newfound Independence on its Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/Newfound-Independence-2110550565886094.