Refreshing Signage
I can't remember the last time that I could honestly say that a billboard got me excited. Maybe in NY where there are gigantic messages draped along the sides of towering buildings. Or the electric flashing signs of Times Square? But those aren't really traditional billboards. I heard that at one point, I think in the 70s, Michael Morgulis (New Buffalo Graphics) was commissioned to design a series of Buffalo-related billboards, and their sole purpose was to promote the city's image. Michael, if you're not too busy selling your t-shirts today, could you chime in?
While driving along Michigan Avenue the other day I noticed the above New Era billboard, and it made me think about how proud I was to have such a cool company based out of downtown Buffalo. This was the first billboard that I had seen in the area that actually made me think about going over to New Era to make a purchase for the holidays. I still believe that there are appropriate spots for outdoor billboards, and I always make sure to check out the electric rotating sign at the corner of Chippewa and Delaware (New Era advertises on that as well). For so long we've been exposed to some unattractive advertising campaigns (we all know what they are), - seeing New Era high overhead is a refreshing change.
QE-
That's a great looking billboard, but I must respectfully disagree about your opinions on signage and billboards...
It makes it look like a city...a vibrant city. The lack of signage and advertising dotting our landscape downtown is something that I view as a negative, not a positive.
The main reason is this...
If advertisers thought the message would be effective downtown, they would be there. As residences and buildings go up, so will the billboards and signage....a 21st Century way of saying that Buffalo has arrived.
You don't know how many out-of-towners have asked me:
Whats with all the DIVORCE signs?
I was excited to see this sign because it replaced the outdated "Pierce Arrow Museum" sign from 2 or 3 years ago.
I hope that this is a 'sign' of things to come!
How much does it cost to design and rent one of these billboards? It might be a good way for Buffalo backers to spread the word about the good things happening in Buffalo. I would like to know if it is cost effective to do so? Maybe Lamar (sp?) could cut the cost if we focus on not-for-profit and civic projects. Thoughts?
I'd like to see some rotating billboards throught downtown. Much like the one at Delaware & Chippewa, but bigger and more elaborate.
FYI- I am sick of the Divorce and Medical Adds posted all over this city.
Edward, it could be worse. Last time I was in Detroit, I was amused by all the billboards marketing paternity tests to all the men who hope the baby isn't theirs.
Billboards are just litter on a stick, no matter who is doing the advertising. Just because it's a "cool" company advertising on a sign doesn't mean it's an asset to the city.
People went gaga over the Artvoice signs on Elmwood Avenue several years ago, even though they violated the city's sign code. If those same signs advertised lawyers pr auto dealers, I'm sure everyone would have been up in arms over them.
I agree. I got the same feeling when seeing the new era sign.
As far as the negative comments, any city has billboards lining their thruways, especially when approaching downtown. You wont get away from it. I think the whole point of this article is that this one out the 10 boards in that small stretch is finally a "good sign"
I agree. I got the same feeling when seeing the new era sign.
As far as the negative comments, any city has billboards lining their thruways, especially when approaching downtown. You wont get away from it. I think the whole point of this article is that this one out the 10 boards in that small stretch is finally a "good sign"
It's a fricken HAT company. Please get over it. Hype is causing me nausea and vomiting.
It's enough to celebrate something once or twice. Move along people, nothing to see here, nothing to see here.
Also there's this ridiculous spectator culture in Buffalo (why they have some of the most rabid sports fans??) .. get out and live life and stop pontificating and anlayzing and talking and writing everything to death. Start a business, move out of town, take a vacation, achieve some goals (hey, better yet - SET some goals .. for YOUR LIFE not a "city's future")... I mean how much time do you folks waste in this endeavor. What about YOU and YOUR LIFE.
There are plenty of Zbillboards throughout downtown and many other areas. Unfortunately, we don't have any type of fines for billboards that are left wiind tirn and faded, 'cuz that's alot of what I see.
former Buffalonian - great idea! Maybe this might be a way to remedy the boards that are in bad shape until such time as an advertiser wishes to use the spot.
A long time ago, the radio station I was with had a billboard campaign - and the board was simple and attractive, nothing like the "in your face" advertising we see along the 290 and such. The reason I added this thought was to say we went down to the presses to see our first sheet come off the line and it was incredible. Think of how the community efforts could be touted as per former buffalonian's idea. Now that's "Talkin Proud" without the bad clothing and dancing!
Ugly its a "freakin hat company" that makes hats sold throughout the world and the company headquarters are right in your back yard. Dont think thats impressive?