There is no finish line. Just open it up

A letter of invitation from Beaverton, Oregon- Nike's headquarters arrives at the mill in Connecticut where we produced the Van's "Lenticular in Rolls." Nike heard about this unusual material and wanted to see a salesman. Naturally, I was elected. What better gift can a salesman get than an written invitation from Nike? Especially when I had a huge suitcase filled with what is called "advance materials" by advance material designers.Line builders and product developers call our stuff cool. I flew from Newark, NJ to Portland, OR and rented a car to drive to Beaverton. Nike Campus is an awesome site. Immaculate, manicured grounds. Lake and landscape surrounding every type of field and sport facility you can imagine. A company store with discounts that beats most department or sporting goods stores in selection and price. As a matter of fact, I learned that Items sold in the employee store about 50% off the retail price plus additional 10% or 20% if it’s a sale item. Nike had to take steps when they found employees returning their clothes and sneakers to other stores for the full price. An underground, cottage industry developed on campus. Nike put a stop to it. They cut the labels in half on all the products.

I drove around the campus a few times soaking it in. To my right, Jerry Rice, Pete Sampras and Ken Griffy Buildings…….Over there, the John McEnroe and Tiger Woods buildings. Then I spotted my destination- The Michael Jordon Building. My appointment was in a conference room on the second floor. I was to show my wares to a team of designers, none older than thirty. I was escorted along with my oversized, Samsonite suitcase down hallways past sports memorbilia and tributes to legends we all know and admire.
No star athlete shone brighter than #23. Michael Jordan.
I was informed of a new Nike program in early design phase.

 Michael Jordan was to launch his own sneaker line. I was shown sketches of a now-famous iconic figure seemingly flying  into the air with arm outstretched. Introducing, "The Jumpman."                                                                      

 

  

            

 

            

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