Executives at hotel- and resort-owner Gaylord say that fundsfrom the sale will go toward the hotel end of the business to"further solidify its full potential," according to a companystatement. Gaylord first purchased its minority interest in theretailer in 1993. Last year, Gaylord took in $12.3 million ofequity income from its investment.

Springfield, MO-based Bass Pro, which is known for itssuper-sized stores, is on a growth spurt. Founded in 1972, thechain has 40 stores and another 21 either planned or indevelopment. Its last two announced stores are in the works forHanover County, VA and Wood County, OH.

Gaylord Entertainment is the owner of a namesake hotel chain,with locations in Florida, Maryland, Tennessee and Texas. It alsoowns the famous Grand Ole Opry entertainment venue in Nashville,and other entertainment venues and hotels across the country.