Out with the old, in with the new.

This is the original Marshall Field's store. It was built in 1873 (to replace the previous building that had burned down in the Great Chicago Fire), and it's an iconic Chicago landmark. It was even listed on the National Register of Historic places in 1978. With five stories & approximately two million square feet of floor space, it's also the second largest department store in the United States.

Every winter, they set up Christmas displays in their store windows. I remember strolling on State Street and admiring their flamboyant Christmas displays while I was growing up. It was always a huge Chicago event.

With all that said, you can imagine loyal Chicagoans' dismay when the store converted to Macy's back in 2006 and lost its charm. I know a good number of people who refuse to step foot into Macy's because of that. There is even a "Boycott Macy's!" website.

Regardless of the controversy, I still find it nice that Macy's left the original plaques on the building. I appreciate it. Thanks, Macy's!

[Edit:] The interview went well. Thanks, everyone, for your best wishes!