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Ann Mulligan

MACVB

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Two Local Attractions Featured in Rand McNally’s New Midwest Getaway Guide

Madison, July 9, 2007 — Rand McNally, America’s largest map company, just put Lanier Mansion State Historic Site and Thomas Family Winery on the map — literally.  Both Thomas Family Winery and Lanier Mansion State Historic Site are highlighted as “can’t miss” stops in Rand McNally’s new Midwest Getaway Guide.  Released in June, the guide blends travel information and recommended stops with maps designed to help vacationers find their way to the destinations featured in the guide. “The Midwest is known for warm hospitality,” says Rand McNally Editorial Director Laurie Borman, “but the places that made it into the Midwest Getaway Guide offered more than just a friendly face—they have that unique something that makes them a cut above the rest.”

Lanier Mansion and Thomas Family Winery are just two of the exceptional destinations suggested in the guide, which takes an in-depth look at restaurants, lodging and one-of-a-kind attractions in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio and Wisconsin.

 “Research shows that more and more Americans are choosing to take their vacations close to home and explore the areas where they live,” says Robert Apatoff, president and chief executive officer of Rand McNally.  “You might live in an area for years before discovering all it has to offer. We designed this guide for Midwesterners who want to find the local treasures hidden in their own backyards.”

              Lanier Mansion long known as Madison’s Crown Jewel is the 1844 Greek Revival home of James F.D. Lanier.  A National Historic Landmark, the mansion is open year round giving regularly scheduled guide tours.

              Thomas Family Winery, known for its great wine and cider is the place to gather in Madison.  Most weekend evenings, you’ll also enjoy their great selection of music and a local art exhibit.

              “We are delighted to be recognized in the Midwest Getaway Guide,” said Steve Thomas, owner and winemaker of Thomas Family Winery.  Gerry Reilly, Site Director at Lanier Mansion said,  “It’s an honor to know that people who travel in Indiana will not only know about us, but will be able to see us right on the map.”

About Rand McNally & Company

Rand McNally is North America’s largest commercial maker of national and local maps, street guides and atlases.  The company’s print and electronic products include America’s No. 1 Road Atlas, The Thomas Guide® map books, custom-made wall maps on the Web, wireless navigation solutions and online maps, directions and trip planning at www.randmcnally.com.

Celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2006, Rand McNally offers the most trusted tools to discover, map and navigate your world.  The company leads the way with innovative products and services for the consumer, business, education and commercial transportation markets.  For more information, visit www.randmcnally.com or call (800) 333-0136.