Dave Brandon: $2.8 million, 48-foot-wide Michigan Stadium marquee 'not at all unusual'
A rendering of the proposed $2.8 million marquee soon to be installed near Michigan Stadium.
Photo courtesy of University of Michigan
The sign will measure 27 feet high and 48 feet wide and will be placed 21 feet off the ground near Michigan Stadium, Brandon told the Board of Regents Thursday.
U-M Athletic Director David Brandon said his proposed $2.8 million marquee is not unusual.
Photo courtesy of University of Michigan
"It's not at all unusual for athletic campuses ... to have some sort of display board activity," Brandon said.
The marquee will be located in the space between Michigan Stadium, Crisler Center and Stadium Boulevard, inside gate two of the stadium.
Brandon noted that a few years ago U-M had three LED electronic marquees that were "frankly not very useful and not very appealing."
Brandon, however, plans to "do this right" this time, he told the regents.
The athletic department, which experienced a $5.8 million surplus this year, will fund the project using its own resources. The department plans to use the marquee to promote student athletes and athletic events.
Regent Denise Ilitch said people "less than enthusiastic" about the project have contacted her to complain.
Brandon, however, said he predicts the sign will cause minimal disruption to passersby.
"It happens to be across the street from a golf course so it won't annoy anybody," he said.
The marquee will be equipped with video and audio capabilities, but Brandon said the audio applications will be limited to football games and other sporting events.
Ilitch suggested Brandon consider allowing local non-profit organizations to advertise on the sign "so the community can feel part of the board that they will be looking at."
In response, Brandon said allowing third parties to advertise on the sign could be difficult because of the sheer number of requests.
"There are literally hundreds of non-profit organizations in the community that would love to have access to the crowds that we generate and the facilities that we have," Brandon told Ilitch.
Brandon is a former regent.
The marquee is part of a strategy to increase interest in attendance in U-M athletics, especially those that don't generate revenue.
Earlier this year AnnArbor.com reported that the school was planning a student loyalty program for athletic events in an effort to encourage students to attend non-revenue sporting events.
The department recently spent $20 million to upgrade its football, hockey and basketball scoreboards and plans to spend $6 million in the coming year to repaint Michigan Stadium.
Brandon has tapped TMP Architecture to design the project, which is projected to be completed in 2013.
Kellie Woodhouse covers higher education for AnnArbor.com. Reach her at kelliewoodhouse@annarbor.com or 734-623-4602 and follow her on twitter.
Comments
Elle Dgee
Fri, Jul 27, 2012 : 7:38 p.m.
Las Vegas, UM style or Halo debacle part 2?
Hailmary
Sat, Jul 21, 2012 : 5:24 p.m.
Great idea Dave, fantastic. It's about time other sports got a bit more attention. Look folks, kids are not getting a proper education because teachers and parents are not doing their jobs. Kids are wasting away their lives on computers which by the way our society as a whole has taken a nose dive since computers took over. Get the kids off of computers and back outdoors playing sports. I spend no more than one half hour a day on computers. I wonder where the young man in Colorado learned how to kill so efficiently, any guesses? Dave Brandon is working to benefit both athletics and the University.
Dexter Man
Sat, Jul 21, 2012 : 10:32 a.m.
Why not put it on top of the stadium so that it can be seen all over town. This has got to rank with the halo that was installed. How long before it is turns into an advertising board for more than sports. yuck!
UofMbeBetter
Sat, Jul 21, 2012 : 8:33 a.m.
I understand adding more seats to the Big house, Increase Revinue. I understand adding Luxury Boxes to the Big house, Increase Revinue. I understand adding lights to the Big house, prime time games, Increase Revinue. I understand remodeling Chrysler arena, Increase Revinue. I understand adding a world class weight room, develop players, wim more, Increase Revinue. What does a 2.5 Million dollar sign do?
D8ton
Sat, Jul 21, 2012 : 2:04 a.m.
It's a terrible waste of funds. If there's a surplus, certainly there's a better use than this. It could be invested in the community -- the very community that helped make UM athletics wealthy. Not this. Not a big "sign". Shame on you.
Nathan Morningstar
Sat, Jul 21, 2012 : 1:34 a.m.
Is this to help people find the stadium? What a waste of money. How about using the surplus for scholarships for exceptional athletes in the lesser fussed over sports. Or something useful!
belboz
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 9:31 p.m.
How can the driver through beer store downtown go through 10 tons of grief to repair a sign that is 1/10th the size?
Irwin Daniels
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 8:42 p.m.
Ms. Woodhouse Do you know of any other colleges that have a sign even close to 27 feet high and 48 feet wide and will be placed 21 feet off the ground for football or any other sport? According to the article "It's not at all unusual for athletic campuses ... to have some sort of display board activity," Brandon said. So is this a true or better yet a correct statement?
heartbreakM
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 8:12 p.m.
The big question that seems to be getting debated in not so many words is: How much is enough? When is it too much for a supposedly amateur athletic outfit? Is this amount of spending and power the type of thing that can lead to the abuse of power (and self-importance) that has brought down other athletic administrations and coaches ? To me, some of Brandon's modus operandi have been rooted in this whole power thing, whereas others have just been gaudy. I am concerned though at the amount being spent overall, and how much bigger everything has to get. When is enough enough? Can we take a stand as a university and say, 'we could do X but we choose not do so, so as not to inflate the collegiate game any more than we have'...?
A2D2
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 8:01 p.m.
I know it's just an artist's rendition, but the second picture includes a row of trees, which if they were really there, would get cut down so you could see the sign...... I'm just sayin-
TMC216
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 7:48 p.m.
Again and again. Darth Vadar (Brandon) and The Evil Empire (Regents) are going to do as they damn well please. Let's just accept it and insist on U of M's own Fire Department as well and any, ANY costs from the city be reimbursed at 110% which is the "prevailing" cheap side. Check out OSU or Illinois with city governments. In the meantime. accept these people or move from A2 city limits. That's what I'm doing.
Frustrated in A2
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 7:32 p.m.
I have seen other schools with marquee boards but never one the size of a 2 story building by 4 story building. Even the football program can find something better to do with $2.8 million.
oldguy
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 6:41 p.m.
It may not be "not unusual" but it sure is tacky. Why not just advertise the stadium as "Michigan Football Theme Park" ( Not associated with the school) (Nor do we care that we`re spending money foolishly) WE`RE MICHIGAN FOOTBALL AND WE OWN THIS TOWN AND UNIVERSSITY AND WILL DO AS WE DAMN WELL PLEASE !!!
Itchy
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 7:35 p.m.
How true!
zanzerbar
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 5:03 p.m.
Years ago City of Ann Arbor had a sign ordinance to prevent this kind of distracting sign. Perhaps its still on the books? But then again the University does what ever it wants.
grye
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 3:55 p.m.
How long before somebody hacks into the sign and puts up their own message?
TC
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 3:28 p.m.
Now maybe McDonald's or Taco Bell will build one even bigger. Hopefully there is a sign ordinance that will prevent this monstrosity.
MRunner73
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 3:49 p.m.
Not sure about you but I remember a 1971 one hit wonder...song: Signs (sign, sign, everywhere a sign) group: Five Man Electrical Band. (great protest song) GO BLUE!!
JamesF
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:42 p.m.
Actually Brandon, why not use those funds and lower the cost of a football ticket by $5-10. I love Michigan football but there is no way I can afford season tickets, let alone just going to one or two games a year.
Itchy
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 7:34 p.m.
Yes - a lower price ticket would help my budget and wallet.
Aaron Wolf
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:41 p.m.
Too obtrusive and close to the road. It looks awful to me.
JamesF
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:37 p.m.
Although it sounds nice. I'd rather be saving those funds for more expansion to the Big House. Maybe some second tier stands in the end zone end to seat more fans. Maybe even a partial enclosure to keep the noise in more. Just some ideas.
RudeJude
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:33 p.m.
Keep pushing, Mr. Brandon. This whining is music to my ears.
DennisP
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:21 p.m.
Seems garishly oversized. I'm surprised that the UM thinks it needs to "advertise" one of the most famous football programs in the nation in this manner. Up until now, most everything about the Stadium renovation had been elegant and collegiate. This borders on Las Vegas crass. Perhaps we can add a maize and blue neon wolverine that lights up at night and jumps up and down... It brings to mind Lee Bollinger's infamous yellow ring--another garish mistake.
Tim Wild
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:13 p.m.
What does the other side look like? Why not Put this on the back side of the Stadium Scoreboard
MRunner73
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1:32 p.m.
The artist rendering looks great. Bah-humbug to all of the nay says. Traffic distraction? Can you say cell phone? The larger size actually makes it easier to read. Like iike or not...it's a done deal.
heartbreakM
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 7:53 p.m.
So if we question things, then we are "obstructionist" and not real fans of Michigan? I seem to remember discussions about the former coach with that type of argument. Can't we all be michigan fans and have its best interest at heart, yet different opinions on the good of these types of projects?
Itchy
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 7:34 p.m.
We might be UM fans, but there is still no need to waste this amount of money on a new sign. Go Blue!
Billy Bob Schwartz
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 7:07 p.m.
RudeJ...Michigan is still Michigan. I think some folks really hate that. I love i. Go Blue!
RudeJude
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 4:49 p.m.
@azwolverine, Exactly! The elements of "what used to be" Michigan are still there, but it's a different era that requires adaption to succeed. Michigan is still Michigan.
azwolverine
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 4:07 p.m.
I'm with both of you. I'm just glad that moving into the 21st century also involves an old-school, traditional UM style football coach.
RudeJude
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:34 p.m.
MRunner73, it makes me proud to see a fellow 21st century Michigan fan on here...there are too few of us!
Arboriginal
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1:30 p.m.
Go Blue!
Arboriginal
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 5:16 p.m.
Yeah, after 47 years I believe it's hopeless for me. Go Blue! See, I can't help myself!
azwolverine
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 4:02 p.m.
Hey, what do you mean, "Go Blue?" In today's day and age, you must go green...you know, recycling, etc. Are you trying to destroy the planet with your "Go Blue?" Apparently Dave Brandon's marketing already has you completely brainwashed and, before you know it, this monster will have all of us 'Going Blue.' Outlandish! Just kidding, of course. I just felt like joining the overall tone of the discussion going.
dwcwork
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1:25 p.m.
I just hope they can tone it down at night. Out here in CA, they have some large bright signs, and they just about blind you at night. Nothing worse than driving down a road at night, coming around a bend and getting hit with a bright light. Otherwise - good idea - even small public schools have marquees to show events.
DJ
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:40 p.m.
Wow all these comments over a sign, discussion should focus on why UM accepts substantially fewer then 50% of its students from the State of Michigan (huge number of international and out-of-state) rather than educate the children of the taxpayers who are paying a large part of the expenses of the UM. Think about how disappointing it is for the students in Ann Arbor who grow up in the shadow of UM (and the Big House with its huge new signage) but are routinely wait listed or rejected for admission to the school when they are more than capable of success.
Frustrated in A2
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 7:36 p.m.
The latest stats I read said that 46% of um students are out of staters and international. I do agree with your point though.
Billy Bob Schwartz
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 7:03 p.m.
It's been some time since the state arrived at the decision not to fund "state" universities at a level that they should. Many people think that learning is a threat to stability or something and would rather just forget about it. That means that other sources of funding had to be found This includes huge amounts of money given by donors, plus large and continuing tuition increases, and the NEED to get more out-of-state students, not only to help create a more cosmopolitan student body, but to get the added revenue. If one wants to go to a school where this kind of things does not happen, there are always places like Oral Roberts, etc. Last I heard, the state supplied about 8% of the funding for the U. How does that make it a state school?
rm1
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 5:10 p.m.
"the taxpayers who are paying a large part of the expenses of the UM." Where are you getting your numbers? Actually the taxpayers are paying a small part of the total , something like 5% of total UM annual expenses of about $5.5 Billion The state number is $273.1 million in 2012-2013, down from $323.4 million in 2007-2008. (Figures from a June 21 AnnArbor.com article also by Kellie Woodhouse http://www.annarbor.com/news/tuition-ready/ You can search AA.com for 'tuition budget changes University" if the link doesn't come through.
Ghost of Tom Joad
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:45 p.m.
where are you getting your statistics from? about 60% of all students at UM are in-state students.
aamom
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:27 p.m.
So it is "not at all unusual". Why do we have to like the others. Be "the leaders and best"!
Ron Granger
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:16 p.m.
Brandon, OSU just called. They said they're putting up a 120 foot marque, twice your size. They said you think small, and the dot on their "i" is going to be larger than your entire marque. Marque-envy is never a pretty thing. I have redacted other portions of their message. Maybe you can copy them? Like how the arches on the stadium now copy OSU.
Wolf's Bane
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:09 p.m.
LOL. Omigod.
Ron Granger
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:05 p.m.
How long until they put one on Crisler? How long until they spread them around central campus, downdown? Why, they just must have one on Schembechler Hall - because Bo was all about flashy glittz.
azwolverine
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 3:50 p.m.
This sign will be between Michigan Stadium AND Crisler, so it pretty much covers both already.
MRunner73
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1:35 p.m.
Take a deep breath, smile and say: it-is -good-to-be-a Wolverine.
Ron Granger
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : noon
Their decision to keep the details of this secret until it was approved speaks volumes about the university's regard for the community and the public interest.
Ron Granger
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 11:59 a.m.
If the university is raising money via athletics then those funds should offset what the taxpayers are forced to pay the university. So long as they are on the public dole, they don't have "their own money". They are not some independent organization. They are the university. If you argue they are seperate from the university then they should not be able to ignore the local laws, as they have.
Ghost of Tom Joad
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:44 p.m.
you do realize that less than 1/4 of the UM budget is from taxpayers. the rest is privately donated or made through tuition (also a small percentage). Beyond all that, the Athletic Department doesn't use a dime of public money. They run their own budget and are one of the few profitable Athletic Departments in the country.
Ghost of Tom Joad
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 11:58 a.m.
Dave Brandon is the king of Gaudy. This is hideous.
Pablo
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 11:58 a.m.
How does one spell u g l y in academese? Does "school of higher learning" equate to outlandish expenditures for show? Values in education? What does such a sign actually accomplish? "Hail to the sign victors?"
A2comments
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 11:13 a.m.
Seems very expensive. One would hope it would be off between midnight and 8am.
average joe
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 11:06 a.m.
Wasn't there a story recently about what U/M was doing to become more "green" as far as energy consumption? This sign looks like it would use a fair amount of electricity, 24/7.
Halter
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 10 a.m.
This looks great. Whiners will always be whiners. If you get distracted by road signs, you really shouldn't be driving at all.
ThoseWhoStayUofM
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 8:30 a.m.
Keep it simple stupid (KISS). Build a giant parking structure and then build additional seating on the endzones. Why do we need a stupid screen on the side of the stadium to advertise non-revenue sports? They're non-revenue sports for a reason! People don't give a crap. I thought Dave Brandon was a business mogul? Earning a profit signals that consumers want/need your good/service. Non-revenue sports don't earn a profit. They wont ever earn a profit. You know what will? FOOTBALL!!! So build more seating in the stadium and build a means for people to get there. It's not complicated!
RudeJude
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 3:21 p.m.
While there is no question Dave Brandon is revenue-driven, I believe he is looking out for the good of all Michigan athletics, as crazy as that would seem to many. He's done much for football and basketball, and I'm glad he is doing something to put those non-revenue sports in the spotlight, too. God bless you, Mr. Brandon.
April Campbell
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 6:20 a.m.
Another obscenity from an institution following in Penn State's footsteps. Way too much emphasis on athletics . Most folks in MI can't afford to send their kids there without taking out 3 mortgages! 2.8 million would pay for many scholarships, but hey, learning is no longer the point at U of M, is it?
Itchy
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 7:31 p.m.
Athletics will prevail, even over education. What a shame!
Billy Bob Schwartz
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 6:52 p.m.
Oksy, I feel obligated to say it one more time. Capital funds for the U of M Athletic Department cannot be used to create general scholarships for non-athletes. The funds are separate. Can't we just get off that for a while? I also don't see how any decent person can compare the U of M with the Penn State situation. There are power centers in every organization, and the AD heads one of them. To suggest by implication that this means perversion can go on here uncontested is puerile and needlessly offensive.
ted
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 6:33 p.m.
April the emphasis placed on athletics is exactly appropriate to the point of how much money we choose to give in exchange for what we enjoy and the athletic department's reinvestment in itselfd it is done so for the object of enhancing our future experience. If it is the lack of attention to an education you pretend to be outraged by, maybe you should start by having the cost of education drastically reduced. The athletic department doesn't feel they are beholden to a group of people who hate the fact that sports draws so much interest from people. It's amusing that you think that you are in the right when you complain about what someone else should be doing with the money that they themselves have raised. Part of your problem is that you can't understand that money does not grow on trees. It doesn't exist without the existence of sports raising the money to begin with. Another is that it bothers you so much that the importance of sports supersedes anything you will every be able to do in your life.
ted
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 5:38 a.m.
Kellie's articles are becoming very predictable. "It's not fair that money is being spent on things I don't like !! Wa, Wa , Wa !!! " Someone who does not have the capacity to understand how an economy functions is sadly unaware naive of how ignorant they sound to those of us who have an easy time understanding what an investment is. Envy and ignorance is putting it nicely.
azwolverine
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 4:47 a.m.
I don't have a problem with it. It will help to bring revenue to other sports so, in the end I'm sure it will pay for itself. David Brandon is a smart businessman and isn't just going to put up a $2.8 mil sign for no good reason. Further, if I were an athlete from one of the smaller sports, I'd be extremely happy to finally have some very visible publicity for my sport.
joech
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 4:18 a.m.
"Brandon noted that a few years ago U-M had three LED electronic marquees that were "frankly not very useful and not very appealing."" So, what's the guarantee that the same problem is not going to occur this time, $2.8 M later?
joech
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 4:20 a.m.
Ooops, I must have missed this line somehow: "Brandon, however, plans to "do this right" this time, he told the regents."
joech
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 4:14 a.m.
"In response, Brandon said allowing third parties to advertise on the sign could be difficult because of the sheer number of requests." Uhhh, can't you just put the third parties' names in a hat and do a drawing each week/month/etc? That's too difficult for a school like UM? Or, maybe it's just too simple.
Itchy
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 10:20 p.m.
Good idea.
Halter
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 10:03 a.m.
Argh...he misspoke. Could have just been clearer and sad they don't want to because this is for Mchigan Athketics not the pathetic tree-hugger organizations in Ann Arbor. I've no problem with this.
ThoseWhoStayUofM
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 8:48 a.m.
"That's too difficult for a school like UM? Or, maybe it's just too simple." These words are very true. Apparently throwing around $2.8M willy nilly is nothing compared to picking what we watch on TV... #TooManyChoicesMakesMyBrainHurt
Jon Saalberg
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 3:06 a.m.
""It's not at all unusual for athletic campuses ... to have some sort of display board activity," Brandon said." This is how the University thinks is should be spending money. I'm not being facetious when I say, imagine how much good that $2.8M good do helping people who are in need, instead of glorifying an edifice that needs no edifying.
RWBill
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 4:10 a.m.
There is still a $3M surplus just from last year, if you're sincere then go campaign to use that for those purposes.
heartbreakM
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 3:14 a.m.
The CCRB is an absolutely old building in need of upkeep and renovation. This benefits athletics on campus (though not NCAA athletics). Why can we not take the budget surplus and help to pay back the student body and staff who support the athletics so richly, by increasing campus fitness? It would actually go a lot further than some obnoxiously bright large advertisement.
aataxpayer
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:55 a.m.
Don't we have a sign ordinance in this town? Does UofM even care about local norms?
Halter
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 10:04 a.m.
Yes we do. They dont. Whine whine whine.
ChrisW
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 3:11 a.m.
UM is exempt from city zoning laws.
Robert Hughes
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:48 a.m.
2.8 million dollars wasted to advertise a space where fans can get wasted.
old Glenn
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:48 a.m.
There must be better ways to use 2.8 million than this ego trip. How about expanding or improving recreational facilities and opportunites for the non scholarship student body or using it as a scholarship fund. Remember what happened at Penn State when all powerful athletic coach played by his own rules. I hope we are not headed for everyone pays homage to the athletic department
Michael Gatien
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:45 a.m.
this new marquee, the 2 monster scoreboards, the TVs in the concourse, how many freakin screens do with need?
Ghost of Tom Joad
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1:30 p.m.
If i wanted to watch on a screen, I'd stay on my couch.
Somargie
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:43 a.m.
Told you, the UM Board of Regents is just a rubber stamp to the nonsense, greed, needless stuff that benefits no one but the arrogance of the UM Athletics... Instead of using that surplus for the good of the students and goals of UM such as lowering ticket prices for sporting events, tuition, room/board costs, mentoring, etc... they buy yet another needless eyesore to their behometh of that collisum wannabee stadium. Instead of using that surplus for the good of the city of Ann Arbor and the community in which they've depleated the financial resources due to their fervent land grab by funding the public schools pay-to-play sport programs, paying for the past/current police/firefighter services they've received but haven't paid for, or simply giving the city of Ann Arbor the money to pay for the many services & police/firefighter positions the city had to cut because of their land grab. No, no, they've decide to add this needless eyesore because they can...despite a city ordinance against this kind of thing because they don't care to show any kind of community connection or concern. The Board of Regents have approved stadiums in neighborhoods, fireworks, night games, unlimited noise levels without any concerns to anyone. No one can file a complaint with the city because UM have the control. Filing a complaint with UM goes nowhere. Unregulated control because of sports. The worst part of this is the insane censor of complaints by the local media such as this website & fervent misguided sport fans who feel that any citizen who live here are whiners, ungrateful & have no right to complain about this benevolent institution. I'll wait for the vitriol of hateful comments, silly vote system or removal to not offend UM. What's next, more demands for street closures, changing the name of Ann Arbor to UM, or demanding Pioneer HS be closed so they can build another shrine. No one wants to preserve the greatness of UM, just want to enhance its uber greed.
MRunner73
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1:37 p.m.
The short of it is there are two ways of looking at this, yours is negative, mine is positive.
hail2thevict0r
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:01 p.m.
It sounds like you have a problem more with Michigan than you do with this sign.
motorcycleminer
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 10:17 a.m.
Whenit comes to needless " eyesores " Ann Arbor leads the pack...Granted it's ugly and costs 3 x more than the tongue depressor ..but at least it might work.....
ThoseWhoStayUofM
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 8:41 a.m.
You.. sir... are delusional. This is CLEARLY for the good of the students. I don't question the motives to build this monstrosity. I question whether it will result in the desired outcome. I don't think it serves anyone to build a giant billboard to advertise stuff that nobody wants or needs. There is no demand to watch college woman's tennis and there never will be. I'm sorry but that's life. However, hundreds of thousands of people show up each and every week to see the football games. You claim that the stadium's size and scope is overblown and the ticket prices are too expensive, yet they have absolutely no trouble selling out even the worst of games. These FACTS fall directly in contradiction to your argument. The truth is, the stadium isn't big enough and the ticket prices could, and probably should, be more expensive to compensate for the insane level of demand. If you don't like the size of the stadium or the price of the tickets, stop buying them. It's as simple as that.
RWBill
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 4:07 a.m.
Not for the good of the students? Do you have any idea how all those other sports are funded?
heartbreakM
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:22 a.m.
What David wants, David gets. This man has absolute power in this university, with no real boss, and a group of his former colleagues, the Regents, who rubber stamp everything and anything he proposes. And we all know what absolute power brings. (And to those who say we have fallen behind...we sell out our stadium, we have tremendous pride, and just because others do it doesn't mean we have to)
cbs
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 6:31 p.m.
His mother never told David that "just because everyone else does it does not mean that you have to." He's compelled by..............,and he's UofM's current darling.
PLGreen
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 11:59 a.m.
If we sell out our stadium, as you say; why are "Ticket Packages" available?
Ron Granger
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 11:54 a.m.
"David's just a man with a plan that's been articulated" Actually, they kept the details of this secret until the vote. They did not want the lowly public giving an opinion.
heartbreakM
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 3:10 a.m.
michman: It is not about PSU at all. But please name anybody at this university who is able to check David Brandon? Name one thing that he has proposed that has even been questioned? Is it even responsible to put up a 3 million dollar lightbox? This is about David Brandon--I have been wary of his power as the AD since he was first announced. His former colleagues--the regents--will in no way limit him, as has been proven, and the President? Well, she is essentially invisible.
michman
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:44 a.m.
Is this thinly veiled attempt to draw this towards the likes of PSU? Poor taste my friend, poor taste. There's a difference between having capital projects approved and having absolute power in the sense that you try to draw. David's just a man with a plan that's been articulated, so project approval like this isn't that big of a deal.
psaume23
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1:57 a.m.
OK, Mr. AD: Express your artistic M self with the high-end marquee, but leave our classic uniforms for football alone.
Jaxon5
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1:18 a.m.
I'm perfectly okay with spending $2.8 million on a football marquee as long as it is positioned so as to distract opposing coaches named Meyer, Dantonio, and Bielema.
michman
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1:39 a.m.
And Saban? We need a really big one.
nunya
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:59 a.m.
It does seem a bit large for the traffic speed on Stadium. If it were along a freeway (like many stadium electronic marquees) then the speed of traffic dictates a larger screen for drivers to get the whole message. I wish it were a bit smaller to go along with a smaller price tag. Wouldn't it be nice of that money went to someone's college scholarship?
michman
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1:34 a.m.
When the number of scholarships are regulated by the NCAA, you can only put so much money towards them.
7718
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:29 a.m.
Tacky
rcastentman
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:22 a.m.
C'mon folks. It was either the marquee or another "halo". Marquee wins this time.
Unusual Suspect
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:09 a.m.
"not at all unusual" Right, I see them all over town.
michman
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:39 a.m.
Yes, because Brandon said "not at all unusual all over town". Really? Context of the statement, you missed it.
hail2thevict0r
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1:08 a.m.
IMO this does nothing to change the town. I don't think you'll find people saying, "man, Ann Arbor is great and all...but I can't get over that sign by the football stadium".
kmgeb2000
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1 a.m.
Hail2... I thought the UM was not just another football town as you suggest?
hail2thevict0r
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:23 a.m.
In most major football towns you would see something similar.
aarox
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 11:59 p.m.
`` We must bear in mind, then, that there is nothing more difficult and dangerous, or more doubtful of success, than an attempt to introduce a new order of things in any state. For the innovator has for enemies all those who derived advantages from the old order of things, whilst those who expect to be benefited by the new institutions will be but lukewarm defenders. This indifference arises in part from fear of their adversaries who were favoured by the existing laws, and partly from the incredulity of men who have no faith in anything new that is not the result of well-established experience. Hence it is that, whenever the opponents of the new order of things have the opportunity to attack it, they will do it with the zeal of partisans, whilst the others defend it but feebly, so that it is dangerous to rely upon the latter.'' -- Machiavelli
Billy Bob Schwartz
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 6:37 p.m.
Scott...2000 feet?? Wow. That's almost 1/5 of a mile! If it's that long, I don't like it!
BillMK
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:44 a.m.
Bingo! If Coach Bo (whom I revere) had a weakness, it was a lack of guile. Coach Nicola, for all of his issues, would not have had that problem!
aarox
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1:31 a.m.
I don't agree with you but I like your thought process. The world is changing, some think exponentially. Seems to me that the virulent reaction to one more hi def screen is a little over the top. Obviously, ymmv.
Scott
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:28 a.m.
Wow this 2000 foot board for advertising represents the new order. We are already bombarded with advertising everywhere. isn't this just more of the same crap? When I think of a new order I like to dream a little bigger. But i like the quote- it's true. Just doesn't apply to more of the same- only bigger.
Goober
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 11:49 p.m.
Maybe we need such a big sign to strike fear into the heart of anyone who enters our territory. Maybe we need such a bg sign to feed UofM egos. Maybe this big sign is to feed Brandon's big ego. In any case, a big waste of money. When will any state university reign in the egos and actions of their athletic programs? My guess....never. Revenue trumps morals, egos and actions.
Itchy
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 7:27 p.m.
Get em, Goob. Logic will prevail!
Billy Bob Schwartz
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 6:31 p.m.
Goober....Did you attend ohio or what? You seem to be stuck on anger and resentment against the U and against Ann Arbor. I don't get it. It isn't your money, and it isn't your school, so what's the problem?
Goober
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 10:44 a.m.
Sorry Ron - I just don't drink AA Kool-aid.
Blue in San Diego
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 11:31 p.m.
Ahhhh.... Now we understand why there was a problem funding the MMB's trip to Dallas (which was less than the $400,000 quoted price tag, and far less than the $2.8 million sign). The marquee may ultimately be a nice addition -- but I questions whether we have our priorities straight.
Itchy
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 7:26 p.m.
Good point Blue!
Blue in San Diego
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:08 p.m.
In response: 1. The Athletic Department made the decision not to fund the MMB in April 2012, long after the Cowboys Classic was announced. See https://www.michigandaily.com/blog/michigan-marching-band-will-not-travel-cowboy-classic-dallas. The key quote is that "The marching band was told that the Athletic Department's decision to leave the band behind was made recently ..." 2. I am aware that the MMB is going, and is being privately funded. My problem is that the Athletic Department made a late decision not to fund the MMB trip, after initially agreeing to pay (per the story linked above). I could understand this decision if there were serious financial pressures. I think that a new $2.8 million marquee sign demonstrates that they are flush with cash. 3. The athletic department could have done the right thing from the beginning -- either they should have put out the call for donations early, or they should have ponied up (which they were clearly capable of doing).
Halter
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 10:08 a.m.
And you are aware the MMB IS going and being funded privately, right?
ThoseWhoStayUofM
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 8:54 a.m.
The MMB is outside the scope of the Athletic Department. They never fund the MMB to go anywhere EVER! The MMB is an independent organization that generates it's own funding.
RWBill
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 4:03 a.m.
Doesn't make much sense, there's still $3M extra just from last year's revenue after the marquee. That has no impact on sending the MMB.
Jed I Knight
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 11:23 p.m.
This falls into a need vs a want - right? I dont get it.
1bit
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:43 a.m.
J: I think it is not yet clear what the sign will be used to promote, but my guess are events that are underattended. If it promotes women's sports is that not a good thing? If the athletic department does well financially and can add more varsity sports, then more student athletes can get scholarships. Is that not a good thing? It is easy to look at someone else's spending as frivolous, but we likely all do it because money is a necessary frivolity. The Athletic dept. has its own budget so I leave to them the management of their finances.
Scott
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:29 a.m.
want = need in america.
Goober
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 11:06 p.m.
Oh my! Arrogance on display! I remember in my past being part of the best wrestling team in our part of the county. I also remember well, the coach beating it into us to move into the arena with respect and reverence. Our show will be our actions on the mat. No bragging! No antics! Just performance. Guess what? We took the state title in several weight classes. My how times have changed. Now we need neon lights and a real big sign to signal our presence in the neighborhood where we live. Interesting!
Itchy
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 7:23 p.m.
Unfortunately, I agree with you Goob.
Billy Bob Schwartz
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 6:23 p.m.
Goober...I think your bragging about how good and decent you guys were and how you won so much sounds a bit arrogant itself. Humility doesn't include bragging about how one's people were so much better than current ones.
michman
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 3:23 a.m.
There's a difference between marketing and arrogance. To not have arrogance is to have humility. Just because an athlete is up on the board doesn't mean the coaches can't teach the very lessons you learned, just makes that lesson a tad harder to teach. Nor does it mean that an athlete can't still be humble.
mohomed
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 10:59 p.m.
Gotta love how the Higher Education reporter makes sure she reports in the headline and first sentence the cost of 2.8 million to get a reaction. It's the Universities own money, they can do what they want with it. It's not coming from tax payer money. I wonder if Kelly Woodhouse would ever report how much AANews gets from it Corporate Advertisers I see all over the AANEWs WebPages. I don't think that article is ever coming, LOL.
Ron Granger
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 11:52 a.m.
"It's not even the University's money. It's the Athletic Department's money. Separate budget, separate sources of revenue" That attitude - we can do anything we want, we're FOOTBALL - is what allowed Penn St's program to be untouchable and above criticism.
BillMK
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:41 a.m.
It's not even the University's money. It's the Athletic Department's money. Separate budget, separate sources of revenue (fans and donors, not "taxpayers"), its own shop. That the Regents have to approve the expenditure is in fact reflective of a greater degree of control over AD operations that exists in some other places...but it's still its own money.
Scott
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:23 a.m.
the aa news is a private business. The University of Michigan was suppose to be about education. There is a difference Mohammad.
Pamela Stegath Wilson
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 10:48 p.m.
I think this is unecesssarily large! It detracts from the aethetic of the new stadium, even in the rendering! If a marquee is needed, I would like to see something much smaller and more tasteful. Not everything has to be oversized at the Big House. Let's keep it classy within the architecture that is already there.
cbs
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 6:21 p.m.
Classy seems to be a trem that has disappeared from the Athletic Department lexicon.
aarox
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 10:38 p.m.
This will be fine. Not even worthy of a debate. Thanks for the update.
Billy
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 10:32 p.m.
That CG rendering of stadium road is just ALL wrong....the road needs more potholes.
Madeleine Borthwick
Sat, Jul 21, 2012 : 8:45 p.m.
Many more, Billy!!!
jen777
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 10:29 p.m.
Totally unnecessary, ugly - we are losing any sense of a college town. Folks will know what is happening and having something that will slow folks down driving on the road is stupid. I think Brandon is going a bit too far with "marketing"
ferdcom
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 10:25 p.m.
"It's not unusual for athletic campuses to have to have some form of display board" 1. What is an athletic campus? 2. How much of the UM campus is in view of this sign. This sign is not directed at the campus or intended to be seen from the campus.
dwcwork
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:04 p.m.
The sign is to inform people that go to sporting events about other sporting events. Like michman says - why does it need to be viewed at the campus? You don't advertise steak sales at a vegetarian event. So why not advertise sporting events where sports viewers would see them?
michman
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1:27 a.m.
athletic campus: an area of a campus where the school's athletic teams partake in their respective sports Large schools have athletic campuses. Why would the sign have to be in view from campus?
Scott
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:22 a.m.
It's 2000 square foot and cost $3 million dollars.
Craig Lounsbury
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 10:21 p.m.
"Ilitch suggested Brandon consider allowing local non-profit organizations to advertise on the sign "so the community can feel part of the board that they will be looking at." makes sense to me "In response, Brandon said allowing third parties to advertise on the sign could be difficult because of the sheer number of requests. There are literally hundreds of non-profit organizations in the community that would love to have access to the crowds that we generate and the facilities that we have," Brandon told Ilitch.' Weak answer. How does he know how many requests there would be? And He seems to presume they would only use the space during an event...." access to the crowds that we generate". If the sign is going to be "on" all day long 7 days a week could these non profits have a few minutes on a Tuesday afternoon? Or a Thursday night? Or or or ?
dwcwork
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1:51 p.m.
So - do you let ALL local non-profits advertise ? If you let one, then you are usually stuck letting all - not just the ones you agree with. Think about it. There are some crazy non-profits out there, and others this piss off one faction or another. I don't blame Brandon for not wanting to go there. I believe in non-profits, and support the ones I choose to support, but I for one would never want to get in the middle of the quagmire of allowing them to advertise.
BillMK
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:35 a.m.
This is not that hard to settle. Ms. Illitch, keep up the pressure for local non-profits to get a bit of time, restrict non-M business ads, and all will be well. Or at least tolerable. And having this spam outside the stadium can reduce the pressure to have it INSIDE!
michman
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1:19 a.m.
It may make sense, to a certain degree. He probably knows because they get probably requests all the time. There's plenty of video boards around the athletic dept now to advertise on, you don't think people have approached them about it? Plus, the athletic department traditionally hasn't allowed advertising or kept it to a minimum.
Scott
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:20 a.m.
It's just a ploy to sooth the dissenters. it will be 99.9% ads. Like Casey Anthony (child killer) recently told her friend. I need to work on my brand.
michboy40
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:07 a.m.
I think Brandon was being a politician on that answer. If you follow politics, what he really said is, "Why the hell would we give the marketing space to nonprofits when we can sell it for thousands of dollars to corporations who have money" ...you see, the board will pay for itself and then some.
a2cents
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 9:53 p.m.
No thank you. Poor taste, thoughtless, outlandish, wasteful... but somehow it is probably just wonderful to the typical fan.
Hailmary
Sat, Jul 21, 2012 : 5:16 p.m.
Fantastic idea and yes it's time to pay more attention to other sports and what better way to get the message out there. Ya know 2cents I see so many what appears to be drunk driver on the road and 99% of the time it's someone on the cell phone texting. I haven't seen to many people swerving because of signs unless there just plain dumb and yes I am a typical Wolverine fan but I do think that the cost of cell phones and texting is a waste of time and money.
Itchy
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 7:25 p.m.
I agree with you a2cents!
Blue in San Diego
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:47 a.m.
@ Scott -- the actual number is 47% -- still bad -- but not what you quoted. http://www.detroitliteracy.org/faq.htm http://theweek.com/article/index/215055/detroits-shocking-47-percent-illiteracy-rate
Scott
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:18 a.m.
Ditto. Our society is getting more and more ignorant. Heck 84% of the people in Detroit are functionally illiterate. Fact not opinion. Only the brave care to think and act with restraint. Not grabbing at the first thing that glitters when we get bored. People will wet their pants when they see the 1200 square foot ads. No way to block out that spam.
edjasbord
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 10:38 p.m.
My thoughts on your comment: No thank you. Poor taste, thoughtless, outlandish, wasteful... but somehow it is probably just wonderful to the typical fanatic.
Scott
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 9:45 p.m.
It's interesting. At america gets poorer and poorer. Tuition goes up and up. Jobs for graduates go down and down. The bling gets bigger and bigger. Sell Sell Sell. Market Market Market. Well the Romans had three things to entertain the masses. Chariot races, plays, and gladiatorial games. Nothings changed. I still love football, just not all the silly crap. Oh well, that's life.
Billy Bob Schwartz
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 6:07 p.m.
Gee, Goob. Ever Mayberry's big thinker, eh?
BillMK
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:27 a.m.
No, Goob. Welcome To Reagan/Thatcher/Romney land - all price, no value. and devil take the hindmost: "America gets poorer and poorer. Tuition goes up and up. Jobs for graduates go down and down. The bling gets bigger and bigger. Sell Sell Sell. Market Market Market." Hey, folks, that what our neighbors voted for, so M Football has to make the best of it.
Goober
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 11:08 p.m.
Welcome to Obamaland!
hail2thevict0r
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 9:53 p.m.
If you love football you should love the additions to all athletic programs lately. Unfortunately since we haven't done any of this stuff lately we've fallen behind our competitors. It's a keep up with the jones' type of mentality. The worst case is that you have an AD who's losing money because they didn't do the marketing side right.
StopCrying
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 9:42 p.m.
No offense but if something like this is distracting enough for you to get into an accident I don't think you are really cut out to drive a vehicle. How on earth do you manage to drive on a freeway at higher speeds with signs every 50 feet?
hail2thevict0r
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 9:37 p.m.
I, for one, don't have a problem with it.
Terry Star21
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 9:31 p.m.
I agree with David Brandon. I think it's wonderful and respectful to keep the initial design in-house (UM Architecture School). In comparison Eastern Michigan University has one (albeit much smaller) on the corner of their football stadium - which promotes a great deal of information about the University and their programs. Michigan's marquee, although much larger, is right in line with the most profile University in America and nations best football program. I look forward to seeing the design, construction and finished product. MgoBlueForTiM....David Brandon, the real 'Architect' of success.
Lifetime AA ND Fan
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 7:04 a.m.
This guy drinks Kool-Aid more than anyone on here.
SEC Fan
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 2:27 a.m.
you sound like you have Bieber fever....
7718
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:31 a.m.
What is the Koolaid flavor of the day?
cgerben
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 9:30 p.m.
Student debt is not at all unusual either, but he's right: this is a better use of money.
michman
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1:11 a.m.
Despite the simple fact that the athletic budget is very much separate from the academic budget. Just like the hospital's budget.
justcurious
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 9:19 p.m.
Obviously they are above any silly mention of sign ordinances which the rest of the city have to follow. Talk about distracted drivers!
michman
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 1:42 a.m.
If one allows him/her self to be distracted by such a sign, perhaps one shouldn't be driving?
hail2thevict0r
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:18 a.m.
I'm not sure why people don't think it has value. I believe the only sports that break even or turn a profit are football, basketball and hockey at UM. If you could advertise all sports via two of the more popular sports (football & basketball) it may help the other sports. It's hard to think that this sign won't pay for itself within the first 5 years.
michboy40
Fri, Jul 20, 2012 : 12:02 a.m.
Correct hail2. I think the sheer amount of money for something that doesn't seem to have any value is what has people up in arms.
hail2thevict0r
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 9:35 p.m.
Furthermore, how is this any more distracting than electronic billboards you see on the highway? I know for sure there's one on the way on 23 N to brighton from ann arbor. Is that not exactly the same thing?
hail2thevict0r
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 9:33 p.m.
Yes, this is true. The University is not required to go by most ann arbor city ordinances. But this is true of the entire university; not just athletics.
lynel
Thu, Jul 19, 2012 : 9:17 p.m.
Seems like it will be a bit distracting to drivers in Stadium Boulevard.
Madeleine Borthwick
Sat, Jul 21, 2012 : 8:40 p.m.
and the university should be concerned because.........?