NEW YORK (Reuters) - Merger talks between Federated Department Stores Inc. (FD) and May Department Stores Co. (MAY) broke down after the two companies could not agree on the price Federated would pay for May, the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter.
The newspaper the May board was prepared to negotiate a deal, but May's interim chief executive officer, John Dunham, and Federated CEO Terry Lundgren could not agree on a price.
The companies could not immediately be reached for comment.
According to the Journal, Federated could now look at other acquisition targets, including the department-store division of Saks Inc. (SKS). The Saks board is expected to make a decision about a spinoff or sale of the group in the next several weeks, according to the article.
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
Put your useless brand knowledge to work!
Posted by Tim Nudd to adfreak.com
Advertising people, rejoice. No longer are you a font of useless brand trivia. Today, you are a star. Each of the letters in the chart is taken from a famous brand's logo (click on the image to see a larger version). How many can you get right? Post your best guesses in the Comments section, if you're so inclined. And try not to gloat.
(As best as we can tell, the chart comprises images from a piece of installation art called "American Alphabet
Monday, February 14, 2005
north hills, raleigh
The former North Hills Mall in Raleigh was recently demolished and replaced with a 'midtown district.' It's a rather striking. Cantnot at UrbanPlanet.org posted the following pictures on that forum and I decided to share them with you. Enjoy.
Saturday, February 12, 2005
SouthPark turns 35 today!
On this day in 1970, SouthPark mall in Charlotte opened its doors to shoppers for the first time.
Original anchors were Belk, Ivey's, Sears and Woolworth's
That first day, about 92,000 people showed up to explore all the new stores.
The first year of business was good for the new mall, but it lead to a 25 percent drop in sales for downtown stores, as the city's retail focus continued to move toward the suburbs.
Below are few photos commemorating SouthPark' distinctive Modern architecture:
Original anchors were Belk, Ivey's, Sears and Woolworth's
That first day, about 92,000 people showed up to explore all the new stores.
The first year of business was good for the new mall, but it lead to a 25 percent drop in sales for downtown stores, as the city's retail focus continued to move toward the suburbs.
Below are few photos commemorating SouthPark' distinctive Modern architecture:
10 great things about "The Price is Right"
The cast of the CBS game show 'The Price is Right' from the late '70s/early '80s era. Clockwise from top: host Bob Barker, presenters Dian Parkinson, Janice Pennington, and Holly Hallstrom. Not pictured: announcer Johnny Olson (http://www.curtalliaume.com/tpir.html)
These are in no particular order, by the way.
- The music. Simply the coolest suite of music on a game show ever! The theme alone is killer! Even when they add new songs, they still blend into the perfect goofy '70s soundtrack that has stood the test of time. It's rumored that professional musicians used to wastch the show for the soundtrack alone! There's a great MP3 download page with a lot of the songs on the show.
- The set. I'm not a fan of some of the latest updates, but the set has definately carved out its own place in TV history. It's one of my favorite parts of watching TPiR, unchanged in spirit since the mid-'70s. No one would dare put that combination of colors and design elements on a TV set ever again! When I was younger, I used to pretend the automatic doors at Tanglewood Mall were my 'set' and I would walk out of them by myself to get that proper Bob Barker feeling. Keep in mind Tanglewood looked a lot like the TPiR set at that time!
- Johnny Olson. Much respect to the late, great Rod Roddy, but Johnny Olson was THE best TPiR announcer. Not only did J.O. participate in the action and help keep things lively, he gave the show its most distinctive signatures. What would daytime television be without "COME ON DOWN, YOU'RE THE NEXT CONTESTANT ON 'THE PRICE IS RIGHT!!!' " or "A NEW CAR!!!!"?
- The classic Barker's Beauties. Though they were largely objectified, Janice, Dian, Holly, Anitra and Kathleen MADE the show. What good are fabulous prizes without the proper sexy presentation? Sue Bee Honey and Galaxy Carpet never looked hotter!
- The pricing games. Plinko rules, but it's not as fun as Temptation, The Bump Game, Hole In One (or Two) , The Shell Game, or the game with that yodeling mountain climber!
- The Showcase Showdown. Three words: BIG GIANT WHEEL. No lie: I learned a lot about addition and counting money as a toddler from watching people spin for a dollar on TPiR.
- The showcases. The various iterations of the goofy podiums are pretty awesome by themselves, but the showcases rock. No one in their right minds would put a jet ski, a popcorn cart, a sewing machine, Broyhill furniture and a trip to Argentina together into a cohesive whole, but TPiR's been making it work for years. "And it can all be yours if the price is right!" I found a webpage based on "Splendido!," aka the second Furniture Showcase music, with tribute lyrics that will make you laugh your ass off.
- The actual retail price. Along with "You've all overbid. Erase the bids please," they are some of the most unlikely catchphrases ever, but anyone who's watched the show can recognize them anywhere.
- Bob Barker. He's definately goten more cranky, and creepy (and a little pervy) with age, but he remains the consumate host. You'd have to have a good attitude to put up with 'The Grocery Game' for over 3 decades.
- Sue Bee honey. It's a TPiR staple. When I saw it at Kroger one time when I was six, I freaked out. Any show that can make natural sweeteners sound good to a six-year -old is doing something right!
Remember to help control the pet population. Have your pets spayed or neutered. Goodbye everybody!
Friday, February 11, 2005
JMJ: Superstar gala
Missy Elliott, Kid Rock, DMC, Chuck D and a host of others will be on hand February 25 for the JMJ: Superstar gala benefit in New York, celebrating the 35th anniversary of the Adidas Superstar sneaker and honoring the life of late Run-DMC DJ Jam Master Jay. The event will raise funds for the Jam Master Jay Foundation for Music, a nonprofit organization that provides funding and resources to support free, public school music education programs. Taking place at New York's Skylight space, the event will feature surprise performances and multimedia installations. For information and tickets, check out www.jmjfoundationformusic.org.
cool changes!
An example of the new Comments feature
I wanted to let you know about a few changes that I've made on the site and some enhancements provided by Blogger.
- The fabulous new Comments features (NEW) : This is Blogger's idea and I've wanted it for a long time. Anyone can leave comments now, even non-Blogger members. It's in a special pop-up window when you click the 'Comments' link. The graphic above gives an idea of what that new Comment screen looks like.
- This Day in History (NEW) : Updated daily, this feature tells what happened in US history on the day you visit. I love this feature.
- Word of the Day (NEW) : Also updated daily, this feature offers up a new word for you to learn and use.
- Quote of the Day (NEW) : Daily words of wisdom.
- NYT Headines (MOVED) : I grouped the New York Times headlines with the aforementioned "of the day" content so that you can get all your fresh information in one spot.
- Special Collections (NEW) : Stuff I've been frequently asked about, and pages I'm proud of. This section will grow in time.
Thanks as always for your support and I hope to hear more from you guys in Steve-land in the future (Hint! Hint!)
Thursday, February 10, 2005
Fox affiliate apologizes to Muslims
References to holy city for story on snobbery led to complaints
MARK WASHBURNTV/Radio Writer
Fox Charlotte (WCCB, Channel 18) apologized Wednesday for airing a spoof on the Muslim tradition of visiting Mecca.
Promoting a news story about elitism and snobbery at upscale SouthPark mall, the station used images of pilgrims coming to Mecca, one of the world's holiest religious sites.
"The hajj, a pilgrimage Muslims take to the holy city of Mecca," the promo said. "Members of Charlotte's elite make a similar pilgrimage to the corporate altar of brand-name merchandise -- SouthPark mall, where believers gather to be among their kind," said a voice-over on the spot, which then showed the mall and the word "Mecca."
"The thing that struck me most was the superimposing of the world `Mecca' over a shot of the front of the mall," said Scott Darden, a Charlotte logistics analyst and a Muslim. "It just didn't sit well."
Islam obliges physically and financially able Muslims to come to Mecca at least once during their lives in a pilgrimage called the hajj. This year's hajj was in January, when more than 2 million pilgrims made the journey to the sacred sites in Saudi Arabia.
The trip is considered the culmination of spiritual life for Muslims, who number about 1.2 billion and comprise the world's second-largest religion.
"Those are very emotional images for Muslims because everyone is eager to complete that duty," said Darden, who moved to Charlotte from Atlanta in October.
WCCB logged about 10 complaints Wednesday from viewers, said Jeff Arrowood, the station's program director and promotion manager.
Arrowood said WCCB strives for memorable promos to break through the advertising clutter. "Sometimes we misfire," he said.
Latest Rumor: Federated Seeks Saks
Regional department store division reported to be for sale
The newest rumor running through the mill is that Saks Inc. (Birmingham, Ala.) may be looking to sell its department store division. And that Federated Department Stores Inc. (Cincinnati) may be interested in the 238-store regional chain operating under the Younkers, Herberger's, Parisian, Carson Pirie Scott, McRae's, Proffitt's, Bergner's and Boston Store nameplates. The division also includes the Club Libby Lu operation.
The Wall Street Journal has named Federated as a suspect suitor for all or part of the Saks group since merger talks between Federated and May Department Stores Co. (St. Louis) have reportedly stalled.
"It is possible that if a deal fell through between Federated and May that Federated would turn around and look for something that would cost them less and not be viewed by the Federal Trade Commission as something that would create a lack of competition," said economist Ellen Beeson of the Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi based in New York. "That's the only way I could see it as a possibility that Federated would turn toward Saks."
The newest rumor running through the mill is that Saks Inc. (Birmingham, Ala.) may be looking to sell its department store division. And that Federated Department Stores Inc. (Cincinnati) may be interested in the 238-store regional chain operating under the Younkers, Herberger's, Parisian, Carson Pirie Scott, McRae's, Proffitt's, Bergner's and Boston Store nameplates. The division also includes the Club Libby Lu operation.
The Wall Street Journal has named Federated as a suspect suitor for all or part of the Saks group since merger talks between Federated and May Department Stores Co. (St. Louis) have reportedly stalled.
"It is possible that if a deal fell through between Federated and May that Federated would turn around and look for something that would cost them less and not be viewed by the Federal Trade Commission as something that would create a lack of competition," said economist Ellen Beeson of the Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi based in New York. "That's the only way I could see it as a possibility that Federated would turn toward Saks."
Jordan Celebrates 20 Years of Air Jordan With the Launch of the Long-Awaited Air Jordan XX
Wednesday February 9, 6:01 am ET
High-Performance Basketball Shoe Launches During NBA All-Star 2005, With New Ads and Special Events Commemorating Michael Jordan's Legacy
BEAVERTON, Ore., Feb. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Jordan, a division of Nike, Inc., is celebrating 20 years of the shoe that changed the game -- Air Jordan -- with the debut of the new Air Jordan XX during NBA All Star 2005. The Air Jordan XX will be supported by a multi-pronged marketing approach that includes a provocative and inspirational national advertising campaign along with a major presence in Denver during NBA All-Star 2005 with a series of community, consumer and celebrity events.
Officially available in retail stores on February 19th, the Air Jordan XX is the most technologically advanced basketball shoe in the world, underscoring Jordan's innovation platform and performance capabilities. Crafted by legendary shoe designer Tinker Hatfield, the motorcycle-inspired shoe weaves design and technology with the patented Independent Podular Suspension (IPS) and a laser-etched strap that includes over 200 icons, creating a tapestry of stories connected to Michael Jordan's unparalleled life and career.
"The Air Jordan XX is a reflection and celebration of my life and career over the past two decades. It's always been more than just a shoe to me," said Michael Jordan. "I'm honored that even after 20 years, my loyal fans and friends have continued to support me and the legacy of Air Jordan."
"I'm excited and honored to be working again with Michael Jordan," says Hatfield, who designed the Air Jordan III through XV. "Every time we collaborate, we always try to take the shoe to the next level and do what's never been done before. Because the shoe celebrates MJ's past, but is technologically designed for the future, I definitely think we got it right again."
To support the sneaker release, Jordan will unleash yet another groundbreaking national print, broadcast and digital marketing campaign. The world-famous Jordan "Wingspan" poster has been reinvented. In the new rendition, a present day Michael Jordan is in the classic pose (arms outstretched), but every inch of skin is now covered in a "tattoo-esque" pattern of the icons that adorn the Air Jordan XX shoe. Along the same vein, the stunning print ads feature photography of Michael Jordan in various silhouettes, covered in the same icon artwork. TV commercials, directed by and starring Spike Lee, spreads the magical story of Michael Jordan to the "next generation". A digital campaign culminated in an on-line game that challenged users to find the meaning behind various icons on the shoe, ultimately rewarding the true champion of Michael Jordan and Air Jordan knowledge with a trip to Denver for launch festivities.
During NBA All-Star 2005 in Denver, Jordan will have its Jordan XXperience space on display from February 17-20th at 1825 Blake Street. Created to resemble a physical abstraction of the Air Jordan XX, the transformed warehouse space is separated into exhibition and interactive experience areas and will be open to the public during regular operating hours. By day, it will house fan-based activities and a celebrity-based product showroom. By night, it will become an ultra-exclusive VIP retreat. On February 17th, the Jordan XXperience will host its grand opening event with The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver (MCA) to raise awareness for its Jordan Fundamentals teacher grant program as well as kick-off the weekend's festivities. Jordan Fundamentals recognizes and rewards teachers who strive beyond challenges and limited resources to achieve instructional excellence and creativity.
On February 18th, brand-loyal celebrities, musicians, athletes, and VIPS will be on-hand for the official Air Jordan XX Launch Party at Denver hot-spot Rise nightclub. As the premier event of NBA All-Star 2005, Jordan kicks its celebration into high gear with an airplane ride on "Air Jordan" into the soul of the brand that transports partygoers to the future of Jordan. Guests will travel through a replicated airport terminal experiencing the progression of the brand through different airport gates that will be dedicated to brand milestones from 1985 to 2005.
On February 19th, Grammy-nominated rap artist Jadakiss will perform at an exclusive "late-night lounge" at the Jordan XXperience, playing host to select trendsetters and tastemakers, along with celebrity drop-ins throughout the evening.
"The Air Jordan XX marks a momentous occasion for the Jordan brand," says Larry Miller, president of Jordan. "We have come a long way in the last 20 years, and now we look forward to the next 20 years with continued excellence in our product and marketing, staying true to our faithful core consumer while introducing the brand to a new generation."
High-Performance Basketball Shoe Launches During NBA All-Star 2005, With New Ads and Special Events Commemorating Michael Jordan's Legacy
BEAVERTON, Ore., Feb. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Jordan, a division of Nike, Inc., is celebrating 20 years of the shoe that changed the game -- Air Jordan -- with the debut of the new Air Jordan XX during NBA All Star 2005. The Air Jordan XX will be supported by a multi-pronged marketing approach that includes a provocative and inspirational national advertising campaign along with a major presence in Denver during NBA All-Star 2005 with a series of community, consumer and celebrity events.
Officially available in retail stores on February 19th, the Air Jordan XX is the most technologically advanced basketball shoe in the world, underscoring Jordan's innovation platform and performance capabilities. Crafted by legendary shoe designer Tinker Hatfield, the motorcycle-inspired shoe weaves design and technology with the patented Independent Podular Suspension (IPS) and a laser-etched strap that includes over 200 icons, creating a tapestry of stories connected to Michael Jordan's unparalleled life and career.
"The Air Jordan XX is a reflection and celebration of my life and career over the past two decades. It's always been more than just a shoe to me," said Michael Jordan. "I'm honored that even after 20 years, my loyal fans and friends have continued to support me and the legacy of Air Jordan."
"I'm excited and honored to be working again with Michael Jordan," says Hatfield, who designed the Air Jordan III through XV. "Every time we collaborate, we always try to take the shoe to the next level and do what's never been done before. Because the shoe celebrates MJ's past, but is technologically designed for the future, I definitely think we got it right again."
To support the sneaker release, Jordan will unleash yet another groundbreaking national print, broadcast and digital marketing campaign. The world-famous Jordan "Wingspan" poster has been reinvented. In the new rendition, a present day Michael Jordan is in the classic pose (arms outstretched), but every inch of skin is now covered in a "tattoo-esque" pattern of the icons that adorn the Air Jordan XX shoe. Along the same vein, the stunning print ads feature photography of Michael Jordan in various silhouettes, covered in the same icon artwork. TV commercials, directed by and starring Spike Lee, spreads the magical story of Michael Jordan to the "next generation". A digital campaign culminated in an on-line game that challenged users to find the meaning behind various icons on the shoe, ultimately rewarding the true champion of Michael Jordan and Air Jordan knowledge with a trip to Denver for launch festivities.
During NBA All-Star 2005 in Denver, Jordan will have its Jordan XXperience space on display from February 17-20th at 1825 Blake Street. Created to resemble a physical abstraction of the Air Jordan XX, the transformed warehouse space is separated into exhibition and interactive experience areas and will be open to the public during regular operating hours. By day, it will house fan-based activities and a celebrity-based product showroom. By night, it will become an ultra-exclusive VIP retreat. On February 17th, the Jordan XXperience will host its grand opening event with The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver (MCA) to raise awareness for its Jordan Fundamentals teacher grant program as well as kick-off the weekend's festivities. Jordan Fundamentals recognizes and rewards teachers who strive beyond challenges and limited resources to achieve instructional excellence and creativity.
On February 18th, brand-loyal celebrities, musicians, athletes, and VIPS will be on-hand for the official Air Jordan XX Launch Party at Denver hot-spot Rise nightclub. As the premier event of NBA All-Star 2005, Jordan kicks its celebration into high gear with an airplane ride on "Air Jordan" into the soul of the brand that transports partygoers to the future of Jordan. Guests will travel through a replicated airport terminal experiencing the progression of the brand through different airport gates that will be dedicated to brand milestones from 1985 to 2005.
On February 19th, Grammy-nominated rap artist Jadakiss will perform at an exclusive "late-night lounge" at the Jordan XXperience, playing host to select trendsetters and tastemakers, along with celebrity drop-ins throughout the evening.
"The Air Jordan XX marks a momentous occasion for the Jordan brand," says Larry Miller, president of Jordan. "We have come a long way in the last 20 years, and now we look forward to the next 20 years with continued excellence in our product and marketing, staying true to our faithful core consumer while introducing the brand to a new generation."
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