October 2011
The whole is only as strong & complete as its supporting parts. A smooth running machine only operates well when all its components are maintained and serviced. A community will only continue to prosper as long as all of its fabric is constantly strengthened. The three elements are the identification, action & result of a community supported commerce. By just thinking about the businesses in our town that we are fortunate to have is time well spent for everyone.
3 is just a starting point. It can be three or even thirty three community businesses that we each can identify that would be true losses if they were not able to remain in operation. Not only would we lose the ability to quickly run uptown to buy that one item we need but we would also lose their financial support to our special interest groups. Ever asked for support to a golf tournament and been turned down by any community business? Think about that little extra effort that was done the last time we needed a little extra help; staying open a little later so we can pick up that one item to finish the project or get to the social gathering with the clean suit. How about the knowledge of the staff who has first hand experience with the item or has read the book you are looking for? How about the time they let you borrow the item instead of buying it for that quick fix or really listened to you when you felt the price of an item was out of line, or when the purchased item failed and they took it back with no questions asked? More importantly is the fact that we can talk with the owner of the business almost any time and they will say ‘Thank you, we appreciate your business’. These are just a few threads of our community fabric which makes our town so special. I am sure you can think of your own experiences that bring a smile to your face.
50 dollars, 200 quarters, 500 dimes, 1000 nickels or 5000 pennies sure is not a lot when compared to the big picture of our financial month. By just spending $50 a month in our local community we are investing in the future of our town. Buying an extra coffee, filling up our car’s gas tank or being sure our medical prescriptions are filled in town assures us that these businesses will be around for another day. It is just like that penny jar we all have on our bureau that we add the pocket change to every day. Over time those little increments add up to a huge contribution. By investing in our community’s businesses we are investing in ourselves and our town’s fabric is staying strong.
68 may just seem like a number but in this example it is the amount from 100 that is returned directly and indirectly to our community. Through taxes, payroll and other expenditures of our businesses $68 of each $100 purchase stays here. In addition to this, think about the fact the bank deposits of independently, locally owned businesses are kept in the local banking system so they can use the money for mortgages, personal loans & local investing. Now think amount the money trail of a national chain: their nightly deposits are sent right away to the corporate office, where ever that might be, but most likely not in the town where the store operates. So nothing is left behind for the banker to use in our community. Pretty grim tale. Buying online ?….enough said.
1 is the number of persons needed to keep the momentum of this concept going. Community Strength involves all of us; Consumers, fellow Businesses, Institutions and Municipalities are all in this together. So next time we are writing a product requisition or looking for a little help think about our town’s quilt. By supporting our independently owned business our community’s fabric will remain and continue to be strong & healthy.
Pick 3. Spend 50. Support our local economy. Join the project today.
Want to learn more??? www.the350project.net Tell them New London sent you
July 2011
MAD DOG Primer is a revolutionary, low VOC paint preparation product designed for problem areas and applications with challenges. It’s Weather Smart technology allows it to be applied to many surfaces in many conditions under a broad range of extreme repair. The primer is tint-able, water clean-up, breathable and very, very flexible. Look at web site www.maddogprimer.com for full details. Stop by to discuss this new product with our sales staff. It will save you time.
May 2011
For all wood, boat and construction repairs and fills WEST SYSTEM epoxy is the professional product of choice. Come see the full line of fillers, hardeners and tools available here at Clarke’s Hardware.
February 2011
With the correct product number of the battery we are able to order for you the proper battery for all your emergency lighting needs. These special batteries are available in a variety of sizes, voltage and amperage to meet the requirements of all state and local codes. No need for you to search any further than right here at Clarke’s Hardware.
January 2011
The final adjustments & displays are being set for the installation of this fine product to our selection of inventory for all your projects solutions. Superior quality at sensible prices offering sensational performance; These are the ingredients for success. Be sure to stop by and talk with Kevin about all the qualities and benefits you will find in our New Paint Area.
January 2011

The gold standard for fine candles for over 100 years, The Colonial classic taper candles are made with exceptional molded detail from the highest quality creamy wax. They are true to their color from the outer layer all the way through to their center core. The taper design ensures a smooth, clean-burning, virtually drip-less candle that burns slowly and evenly for approximately 7 hours. Available in single quantities or mix-n-match 12 for a savings of 15% . Quality does always outshine bargains. Let Jen show you all the colors and lengths available next time your here. Colonial Candles of Cape Cod for every occasion and last the measurement of time.
December 2010

All of us at Clarke’s Hardware wish you a joyous holiday season and a
heartfelt thank you for allowing us to fullfill your hardware needs.
Conducting business in the New London area is truly a privilege. It is
where “community” continues to have real meaning. It is where
customers are friends and neighbors. It is where support and ongoing
encouragement extended to our staff is always appreciated. It is why we
are committed to providing outstanding products, service and advice.
Therefore, the upcoming holiday season turns our grateful thoughts to
you, who have made our progress possible. In this spirit we sincerely say:
Thank You and Best Wishes for a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year!
December 2010

Be on the look out for the 150 nutcracker soldiers in New London for the month of December. They are stationed along the Newport Road & Main Street area bringing the holiday cheer and good will to all. Many local & very creative folks have put together quite the assemble of characters and personalities for every one to enjoy and admire.
So many personalities are being displayed and so much fun is being had with their creations.
November 2010
Search high and low, look in every closet, under each chair plus the trunk of the car for your Blue New London Bags because exciting things are coming for this holiday season and the blue bag is your ticket to savings and success. Share it with friends, neighbors & family that shopping with your home town stores, restaurants and shops is going to be the best means to truly enjoy the spirit of the Christmas season and assure the spirit of giving all year long. United we stand, together we grow, divided we fall.
Destination New London, Small Business Saturday, the3/50project and you are all focused on the same objective. See you around town with your blue bag. Don’t have one yet??? Be sure to stop by any of the businesses in town to get one.
Happy Holiday Season to you all.