Toys “R” Us kids at Macy’s By Chuck Palmer
Geoffrey the Giraffe is making a comeback. The iconic mascot of Toys “R” Us has had a rough few years. First the toy store chain filed for bankruptcy in 2017, then closed all its stores, including the Douglasville location. An initial resurgence under new ownership in just two entertainment destinations ended with both venues being shuttered. In the summer of 2021, Toys “R” Us inked a deal with Macy’s to reintroduce Geoffrey to a new generation of Toys “R” Us kids. This year will see some significant changes inside Macy’s. The department store chain, like all others, has been reimagining itself in the changing retail landscape. Macy’s has restructured already by closing scores of stores across the country and looks to continue downsizing their brick-and-mortar footprint while increasing their online presence. The partnership with Toys “R” Us is a progressive move in that new vision. Beginning last fall, Geoffrey the Giraffe surfaced on Macy’s website. The Toys “R” Us section offered customers the opportunity to order toys from a curated selection of toys ranging from infant friendly on up. In 2022, 400 Macy’s stores will have a Toys “R” Us toy store within the Macy’s store itself. Some locations will have small sections with modest selections, while others will dedicate most of an entire floor to the world of Geoffrey the Giraffe. Events, branding, and mascot experiences will give customers more incentives to visit Macy’s in person. Toys “R” Us has 70 years of experience in business and Macy’s has 160 years. Both are giants in retail history and look to rekindle the generational loyalty of past customers. Changes in the retail behavior of shoppers coupled with the challenges of the pandemic have caused forward thinking planners to make bold moves to rekindle in-person shopping. This partnership is bold and a sign of thoughtful, practical, mature thinking. Sometimes you have to be grown up to be able to sing "I don't wanna grow up, I'm a Toys"R"Us kid!" For more information visit macys.com/s/ toys-r-us.
44
Chapel Hill News & Views COMMUNITY
The Mayor
ROCHELLE ROBINSON oneers of the past that have shaped our lives today and have contributed to the wellness community. Leaders such as James McCune Smith, Rebecca Lee Crumpler, Dr. Charles Drew Jarvis , the “Father of Blood Banking”, Dr. David Statcher, the 16th Surgeon General of the United States, and Henrietta Lacks, the source of the HeLa cell line which has contributed to many medical breakthroughs including the research on the effects of zero gravity in outer space, the development of the polio vaccine, the study of leukemia, and so much more.
In February, we celebrate Black History Month. This month is a time to remember the important contributions and achievements of African Americans throughout our country’s history. By remembering and celebrating these pioneers, we generate greater awareness of the trials and struggles that African Americans have overcome. In light of the past couple of years and the challenges that we have faced as a nation, it becomes even more important to revisit our history and recognize where we started, how far we have come, and where we still need to go. The Association for the Study of African American Life & History (ASALH) has announced “Black Health and Wellness” as the Black History Month theme for 2022. Extensive research has shed light on the racial and ethnic gaps in behavioral health care. I admire the work and legacy of Black health and wellness professionals and how they are driving change and countering health disparities for people of color. COVID has brought many health challenges over the past couple of years and has highlighted the importance of prioritizing mental health. Given all that has occurred, I encourage everyone to prioritize our mental well-being and seek help when we feel overwhelmed, stressed or anxious. So, throughout this month, do something for your health and well-being. Try to walk a couple of days a week, pick a few healthy meals to cook, read a book instead of watching television, anything to get moving and get healthy! And while you are taking care of yourself, take the time to look back and celebrate the African American leaders and pi-
This month, I’d like to highlight one of our city employees, Ryan Anderson. Ryan currently serves as our Zoning Administrator. Before coming to work at the City of Douglasville, Ryan served as a city planner in South Fulton, McDonough, and worked for the DeKalb County government . In his role with the City of Douglasville, Ryan manages the Zoning Division, supports economic development efforts, and gives regular reports to our City Council regarding planning and zoning items. Ryan graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Jackson State University in Jackson, Mississipi where he also received his Master of Public Policy and Administration and completed 24 hours towards a PhD in Urban and Regional Planning. On top of all his schooling, Ryan is also a member of many different professional organizations such as, the American Society of Public Administrators, American Planning Association, Georiga Planning Association, and the Conference of Minority Public Administrations, among others. As you can see, Ryan has been a wonderful asset to the City of Douglasville and our Community Development Department and I am so happy to highlight him and his accomplishments! With that, I wish blessings upon you and your families and urge everyone to reflect on this month and how we can continue to strive and head towards a better tomorrow. If you’d like access to additional support, please visit douglasvillega.gov/communityresources. God Bless! PLEASE SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS