Lakes to Locks/National Geographic Geotourism Mapguide Program

June 23rd
8:30am at the North Creek Business Alliance Meeting (BarVino on Main Street) for an overview of the program. (approximate time 15 mins.) 9:30am at the Tannery Pond Community Center (Main Street, North Creek) for a demonstration (approximate time 45 mins.)

This program is open to all businesses, community organizations and residents. For more information, contact the Gore Mountain Region Chamber of Commerce at 251-2612 or info@gorechamber.com Presenter: Drew Alberti, Program Manager of the Lakes to Locks Passage. Drew has been Program Manager for Lakes to Locks Passage since 2008, and his ability to apply 21st century technologies, interest in graphic design and background in historical interpretation have been utilized in the development of the Lakes to Locks Passage website, books, kiosks, brochures and multimedia productions. Drew currently lives in Clifton Park and pursues a part-time career in his second passion - cooking. How our business community and residents can participate: Market studies have shown that travelers to our region seek authentic experiences and want to connect with the people and traditions in the communities they have come to visit. This collaboration with National Geographic Maps is designed to highlight the world-class historic, natural, cultural, and recreational attractions along New Yorks Byways, including the Upper Hudson River. This project will create a co-branded online Geotrourism MapGuide to promote sustainable Geotourism: tourism that contributes to the economic health of communities by enhancing the geographical character of a place its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage and the well-being of its residents. Lakes to Locks Passage residents, community organizations, and tourism businesses are asked to identify must see and authentic landmarks, attractions, activities, events, shops and local food those aspects of the Lakes to Locks Passage that define the regions character and appeal. Locally owned and operated businesses that are distinctive and capture the regions unique character can be nominated. As a private sector Lakes to Locks Passage geotourism site, your business serves as an ambassador for the region. We will provide decals for your front door as well as Lakes to Locks Passage information and print materials about the community to distribute to visitors. Digital graphic logos will be available from Lakes to Locks Passage, crosslinking your website with the Geotourism MapGuide is highly encouraged. The Lakes to Locks Passage Geotourism website will be able to track visitation to your page on the website and provide you information on the interests of the geotraveler.

FOR-PROFIT GEOTOURISM MAPGUIDE CATEGORIES: (subject to specific criteria) Specialty Markets Shops for local artisans and craftsmen, antiques and collectables, and value-added products Art Studio or Gallery Farmers Markets, Local Farm and Produce Stands Food and Drink Restaurants, Cafes and Bakeries Wineries and Breweries Accommodations Lodging Campgrounds Experiences and Recreation Professional Guide or Outfitter -- Tours and packaged experiences offered by professional guides and outfitters for groups or individuals. Distinctive Recreational Activities -- Recreational experiences that provide access to the natural resources and heritage of the region such as horse racing, hunting, rock and ice-climbing, whitewater rafting, trail riding, tubing and underwater preserves. Winter Sports -- Snowmobile, cross-country skiing, and snowshoe trails; ski and outdoor winter recreation areas. Transportation and Travel Routes By Bicycle By Water By Highway By Rail By Air