| Maps inspire design, home decor
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Whether you are fascinated by the Old World or prefer a modern look, there's a map for your home.It's easy to find antique-inspired sepia maps of the world that are full of mountain ranges and place names and look as if they belong in your grandfather's study. But there are also more glamorous maps, streamlined of all topography and made of clear acrylic that seems to float when hung on the wall. Fully illuminated maps look like high-def televisions, techy enough to make a gadget geek swoon.But all maps share this: They transport us back in time to the places we have traveled, as well as to the places we dream of going. Maps represent who we are, making them good conversation pieces in the home, says Larry Compeau, associate professor of marketing at Clarkson University in New York and executive officer of the Society for Consumer Psychology.Maps also can signify who we wish we were."Those who haven't really traveled, who have a map displayed, want to convey that they're knowledge-seeking, intelligent people," Compeau says.
'Big day' focus of annual fashion show
Sue Thompson, Mercersburg, is getting married on June 28 and said she fell in love with a navy blue dress from J&B Bridals and Tuxedos that was modeled in the fashion show. Thompson and her friend Karen Blair were very impressed with the exhibitors, saying that they provided essential information, giving good input without being pushy. The ladies enjoyed many aspects of the bridal show, including the atmosphere, models and music. "It really brightens your spirits and makes you want to have a wedding all over again," Blair said. Thompson said she has a church and reception hall booked for her wedding, on a $4,000 budget. She and Blair have been friends for over 30 years. They said that the wedding, though priced low, will still be very nice with help from friends and family, who make the day special.
MySpace makes deal with states to protect young users
The social networking Web site MySpace will work with officials from 49 states and the District of Columbia to implement new measures to shield young users from sexual predators, authorities announced Monday.
The Web site has agreed to implement design and policy changes to protect users from harmful images and contact from adults, according to a statement from state Attorney General Bill McCollum. Some new policies include creating a closed section reserved for high school users under 18 and creating a registry in which parents can submit their child's e-mail address to prevent children from signing in or registering a profile.
MySpace will also work with the attorneys general to develop an Internet Safety Technical Task Force to develop an identity authentication system.
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