Mark Somers first joined the Main Street Board of Directors in 2005. He says, "New London is the Town of Undisputed Potential, and New London Main Street struck me as the organization most likely to help New London achieve that potential."

Mark and his wife, Heather, are working with Promotion Coordinator Tracy Tremblay to co-chair the organization's 2010 Valentine Fundraiser. In order to liven things up, they are planning a 1980's theme party, inviting all of New London to crash an 80's style wedding reception - all to support New London Main Street. Mark says, "We hope to use this event as an opportunity for people both inside and outside New London to enjoy the energy New London has to offer."

"By working with New London Main Street, I have realized that I'm not alone in wanting to make New London a better place, and more importantly I've learned how much effort goes into everything we do."

Mark hopes that in one year, we will see a couple more anchor restaurants that begin to bring people to the downtown District. He envisions visitors menu-browsing up and down the street as more options open up. In five years, Mark says that he would love to see well established businesses interspersed with restaurants and nightlife filling in not only Bank Street but also State Street. Mark says, "I want people to say "Let's go out in New London tonight - we can figure out where to go and what to do once we get there." City dwellers in New London can embrace the New Urbanism - shopping, working, recreation, and eating all within walking distance."

In ten years, Mark would like to see New London established as an affordable, young, hip center of culture. He shares, "I lived in Seattle in the 1990's, and I honestly believe that New London becoming the Seattle of the East is a real possibility - a hub of transportation, entertainment, art, and commerce."

Mark and Heather both thought that Main Street's annual Valentine fundraiser could be livened up a bit - and CEO Penny Parsekian knew how to turn a suggestion into a commitment! Mark says, "Heather and I both love parties, we grew up in the eighties, and just a few months back we had some experience with a wedding...our own that is. We hope to see you all at the Crocker House Ballroom for "The Wedding Reception of the Year" at 4:00pm on February 14!

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