Isaac Laquedem

A retail designer tries for an Eagle, but scores a bogey

This outlet of a clothing store called American Eagle has a hanging sign, like the other stores in the mall. What makes its sign different is that it's placed behind a pillar and above a balcony, safely hidden from the eyes of would-be customers. It's a refreshing return to the days when retailers disdained to ask for trade, but a little odd to see on the year's top day for retail sales.

Black Friday and Pamplona

Black Friday is what happens when PETA improves the running of the bulls at Pamplona. The sporting and daring among us can enjoy the frisson of risking a trampling, without any animals being put to the effort of encouraging us to make a dash for it.