FAIRMONT - When using a GPS navigation unit or looking up directions on Internet map sites, drivers expect to enter the address and be directed to the front door. But that isn't always what happens.
The Fairmont Visitor's Bureau recently realized how far off many Web sites directions are, says Bob Wallace, Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce president.
The Hampton Inn on Hampton Street? Wal-Mart on North North? McDonald's where Arby's is located? George Lake missing altogether?
For a visitor coming to town and relying on GPS, being able to easily locate what they need is important, Wallace said. That's why the Chamber decided to prioritize businesses visitors are likely to need - like lodging, restaurants and auto repair shops - and begin fixing those first.
"This is a service we're providing to members free of charge," Wallace said.
The job belongs to Hadassah Peters, a 22-year-old temp placed at the Chamber through a Work Force Center program.
"Some are on the right street, but probably only 10 percent are right on," Peters said. "It's pretty bad. Most are at least a block off."
For instance, according to these Web sites, the Chamber was at the Red Rock Center and Southern Minnesota Education Campus was at the Fairmont Opera House.
Much of Peters' time at the Chamber time is spent looking up members online at about six different Web sites to make sure they're listed correctly. Any mistakes she reports or edits herself, depending on the Web site.
"It's quite easy," she said. "The trick is remembering every site has a different way of editing it."
Business owners can "claim" their business, which makes it impossible for anyone else to alter their information online.
"If anyone wants to claim their business, I would suggest it," Peters said.
