<b>UPDATE:</b> CHICAGO-The third-party management firm's split from General Growth, Simon and Westfield is an opportunity, CEO says.

"The Spring Convention is like working the biggest room of the year."

LAS VEGAS-Municipalities have increased their presence at the International Council of Shopping Centers' Spring Convention. Not only has their membership in the organization jumped 24% in the last three years, but 48 cities are exhibiting at next week's event, up from 44 in 2004. Some cities, like Rancho Cucamonga, CA, have exhibited for more than a dozen years, leading to major retail developments inside their borders. Others are trying to get projects in currently in the planning phases off the ground.

<b>EXCLUSIVE:</b> CHICAGO-The third-party management firm's split from General Growth, Simon and Westfield is an opportunity, observers say.

CHICAGO-The third-party management firm's split from General Growth, Simon and Westfield is an opportunity, observers say. The company currently manages 45 million sf of retail space and is involved in the development of many development projects across the country.

CHICAGO-The third-party management firm's split from General Growth, Simon and Westfield is an opportunity, observers say. The company currently manages 45 million sf of retail space and is involved in the development of many development projects across the country.

NEW ALBANY, OH-The tween apparel retailers plans to double its lower-priced concept by the end of the year.

ANN ARBOR, MI-Lagging music and best-seller sales held back the retailer; execs expect a stronger Q2.