Readers have provided a number of tips and news items on Apple's retail and online stores:

• MacNN reader Creag Banta provided an update on the construction of the (yet-announced) Apple Store in Chicago on Michigan Avenue: "The empty lot (old Gap demolished) at the corner of Michigan Ave and Huron Street now has a big black construction barrier with a white Apple logo and www.apple.com. This site is across the street from Neiman Marcus, kiddy corner from Tiffany's, across the street from Saks and two blocks south of Water Tower Place. Another half block south is the Sony store on Michigan Avenue." [added 11:30 am ET]


• Apple today announced it , California. It says it now has stores in 24 states in the U.S., with a retail location within 15 miles of 85 million people, about one third of the U.S. population: "In addition, this holiday season visitors to the Apple stores can choose from two holiday wrapping paper designs created exclusively for Apple by San Francisco artist Rex Ray. Apple is hosting a special holiday shopping event at all of its retail store locations on Friday, November 29 from 6 p.m. to midnight. Customers who attend the event will receive free stocking-stuffers, special values and a chance to win a new 15-inch iMac." [add 10:30 am ET]


• Readers note that Apple has begun its 180-day 'Same As Cash' promo (as of November 1st), which is available at Apple retail stores (both online and retail) as well as through participating dealers.


• The Apple Store has also begun same-day shipping on select products: "Orders for In-stock items eligible for same day shipping must be received before your local time of 2pm, pending payment processing. Orders placed on the weekend or on a holiday will not begin payment processing until the next business day."


• Apple stores are also carrying several refurbished items. The online store has 5GB iPods (with the original scroll wheel) for $200 as well as refurbished 15" and 17" iMacs, PowerBooks, iBooks, and Power Macs. (Click 'Special Deals' in the lower left-hand corner of the Apple Store main page.) David Allen also notes that Apple Store Glendale Galleria (as well as others) are also carrying refurbished equipment.


• The Apple Store Oakbrook in Oak Brook, IL, will open on Friday, November 29th, a day before most retail store openings to take advantage of Apple's special Thanksgiving Event, which will take place at Apple retail stores on the same day from 6 pm to midnight.

by MacNN Staff