Memo To The Windy City - Don't Stop Drinking Quite Yet!

We'll let you know when your "modern, fresh shopping experience" is ready!

CHICAGO (AP) - The owner of the Carson Pirie Scott department store announced Friday that it is closing the historic store because of a drop in sales and rise in operating costs.
The store is located in a building designated a National Historic Landmark and designed by famed architect Louis H. Sullivan in the late 19th century. The store was originally built in 1898-1899. There have been additions over the years, including a 12-story south addition in 1905-1906. According to the city's department of planning and development Web site, the store is "one of the most important structures in early modern architecture, famed for its influential modular construction and design."

"We are very proud of Carson Pirie Scott's rich tradition in Chicago -- a tradition that has prospered for more than 150 years ..." Bud Bergren, Bon-Ton's president and CEO said in a statement. "Unfortunately, this facility is more than 100 years old and no longer supports our efforts to provide quality customer service by giving our customers a modern, fresh shopping experience." The store is expected to close in March, 2007.