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Troubled mall owner may file bankruptcy

General Growth Properties, owner of Jefferson City’s Capital Mall (above), is reportedly experiencing difficulties due to company investments. (Julie Smith/News Tribune photo)

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Published: Thursday, November 13, 2008 1:26 PM CST

Capital Mall in Jefferson City still will be around for Central Missouri shoppers to visit this holiday season.

That's the word from officials of the company that owns the mall, after several reports this week of financial hardship. General Growth Properties (GGP), which also owns Columbia Mall, is the nation's second-largest mall owner.

The company has been hurt by falling funds from operations and a tightening global credit market.

“Regardless of what happens, there will not be an impact to our customers at our facilities.” General Growth Properties Corporate Spokesman David Keating said Thursday morning, in a telephone interview from his Chicago office.

According to national reports, the company warned Tuesday that it may file for bankruptcy after its shares fell 64 percent in regular trading.

CLICK HERE to read more coverage in Thursday's e-Edition. See the FRONT PAGE.


		Roger Kurtz won't seek re-election

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Thanks.

ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 24, 2008 12:38 PM:

" I know for a fact that they have 2 sisters, 1 brother, 2 kids that belong to 1 sister, 1 son in law that belongs to 1 sister, 1 nephew to another all working there together. And 2 out of them are management. So really if you have a complaint do you think they will listen? "

ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 24, 2008 12:36 PM:

" then they serve the food. And for poor customer service nothing like watching them stand and joke with each other while they are checking you out. And what is worse is when the management is up there doing it with them. "

ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 24, 2008 12:35 PM:

" All I can say about Hyvee is walk in a fall on one of their wet floors sometime and see what they have to say. You will end up paying for 99% of everything them paying for 1% even though it is their fault for laying a rug on top of a wet floor. They prefer to pay big bucks for 4-5 lawyers to not have to pay for the medical bills for it.
Also if only you could see the areas where the vegetables and produce are cut to put out on the salad bar area. One main reason I dont ever eat there in the little food area. Watch the employees wiping their faces with their hands or through their hair "

ODF wrote on Nov 24, 2008 12:16 PM:

" Boscoe wrote on Nov 23, 2008 3:59 PM:
Schnucks is the place for me! Better selection, lower prices, ....

You sure about that...the times I've been in there, the things I bought were higher than any other store around, including Hy-Vee and my coworkers say the same thing. They have good prices on some things, but they make it for it on others.

What ever happened to a GROCERY STORE? Everyone wants to be the Wal-Mart of groceries or whatever. If I have to deal with a super store, then I'll go to Wal-Mart and get all my stuff in one place and be done. "

ODF wrote on Nov 24, 2008 12:13 PM:

" However I disagree with you about Columbia... Columbia people (the town and people in it) have an attitude if they even suspect you are not from Columbia or an MU grad. There's an arrogance to that town...and the reasons escape me. It's a joke...nothing but a crime hole. I don't "shop" in Columbia....I will go there to "buy" something. I know exactly what I'm going for, buy it, and am out of town before dark. "

ODF wrote on Nov 24, 2008 12:11 PM:

" countercouple wrote on Nov 21, 2008 12:14 PM:
Look at what happened to Hy-Vee. All that time and work and now the store is just as bad as it was.

Take any buisness in Jeff City and then go to the same buisness in Columbia and you'll have a better expereince everytime.

I agree with you on Hy-Vee, at least partly. I liked the OLD Hy-Vee it had a home-town feel, you knew the people, etc.. They jacked up that store big time, expanded it and raised the prices to pay for it. I rarely go to Hy-vee anymore...and it has to be an emergency then. "

jcmoman wrote on Nov 23, 2008 10:01 PM:

" I heard that when F.Y.E.. was in the Capital Mall, mall they were paying over $20,000.00 /month at 15.00 per CD that's 2133 CD's per month just to pay rent, add in employee wages for the hours that the mall requires them to be open and you can add even more, there's no way a store can survive in Capital Mall.... Sears, Dillards, and JC Penny are anchor stores and pay Conciderably less rent than others.
Remember when the mall had a food court? When GGP remodled the food court they raised rent on resturaunts an additional 1,750.00 per month, almost doubling their rent. Around here GGP cares about Columbia Mall nothing else. "

Boscoe wrote on Nov 23, 2008 3:59 PM:

" Schnucks is the place for me! Better selection, lower prices, excellent service, and nice store. HyVee is OK, but they sure are proud of their products.

As for the mall, the best thing that could be done to save it would be for the YMCA to put its new facility in the Mall. Share the free parking, and help build traffic to the mall for the retailers there. Also, the Library should put a branch in the Mall too.

The City needs to partner and work with retailers and businesses. They can support each other and work together for lower costs for all and better services for all. That's what I;m talking about. "

carolyn wrote on Nov 22, 2008 10:16 PM:

" I'm confused. I was in HyVee just the other day and there was nothing gross about it. Plus, now I 'm going to have to go visit Gerbes Superstore because I don't see how it could have turned into a dirty little dump since I was last there. "

BCK wrote on Nov 22, 2008 11:03 AM:

" Bad customer service is sometimes a direct response to bad customers.Let's look in the mirror sometimes. "

BCK wrote on Nov 22, 2008 10:54 AM:

" Wow, we'll badmouth just about any place in town won't we? As far as I am concerned, of all the grocery stores in town, Hy Vee is the cleanest, nicest and has the best selection of all of them, so much so that I won't step foot into Gerbe's, Schnucks or any other grocery store in town anymore.

As far as the Mall goes, it's an eyesore, to make it nice would probably require bulldozing the whole thing. Heck, why didn't we put a conference center over there on top of it? "

Boscoe wrote on Nov 21, 2008 5:10 PM:

" HyVee may be gross, but it is a whole lot better than that Not So "Super Gerbes" on Eastland. What happened to that place? It used to be a very nice store when it opened. Now it is a dirty little dump with little selection and is just like any other Gerbes in any other town. I saw a clientele of people who looked like folks from nowhere around here shopping there- from ghetto thugs at the liquor department to toothless bumpkins picking through the very limited produce department.

This town sure attracts the lowest denominator of businesses. "

countercouple wrote on Nov 21, 2008 2:49 PM:

" Well it may in fact be a family tradition of uncleanliness and bad customer service but the main fact is the hy-vee in columbia is so far superior its not even funny.

Its not that columbias great, its that the buisness in JC are just that bad. "

ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 21, 2008 12:23 PM:

" countercouple the only reason Hyvee has the problems it has is they have so many family members from the same family working together. There are sisters, mothers, daughter, cousins, and brothers all working there together. When they say family owned they mean it!! "

countercouple wrote on Nov 21, 2008 12:14 PM:

" In my opinion, even a revitalization of the mall wounldnt work. Look at what happened to Hy-Vee. All that time and work and now the store is just as bad as it was.

I swear, you could take any successful buisness, bring it to Jeff City, and they'll find a way to mess it up.

Take any buisness in Jeff City and then go to the same buisness in Columbia and you'll have a better expereince everytime.

Thats just a fact. "

countercouple wrote on Nov 21, 2008 12:14 PM:

" In my opinion, even a revitalization of the mall wounldnt work. Look at what happened to Hy-Vee. All that time and work and now the store is just as bad as it was.

I swear, you could take any successful buisness, bring it to Jeff City, and they'll find a way to mess it up.

Take any buisness in Jeff City and then go to the same buisness in Columbia and you'll have a better e "

rojo wrote on Nov 20, 2008 7:44 PM:

" Walk-through malls are closing all over the U.S. Retailers have discovered that shoppers prefer to drive to the store they wish to patronize rather than park even a short distance away.

Ours is a dinosaur. Better to scrape it off and build something similar to the outlet mall at the Lake. There's plenty of room where the Capitol Mall now sits to do it over and start right.

Won't happen, though. This is J.C. - land of the old school dullards. "

bck wrote on Nov 20, 2008 4:06 PM:

" Only reason we go to the mall anymore is to go to the arcade or let the little one play on the playground if it's raining outside. Otherwise, we try to not step foot in there. The place has been an eyesore and a business failure for a long time now, maybe just let Dillards/Penny's/Sears take over the whole thing and get rid of the stores in between that no one goes to anymore. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 20, 2008 3:11 PM:

" The rent really is through the roof. And then you have to take into account some of the stores that come in. Some just are too expensive and not suited for JC. Like I said, surfwear doesn't cut it in JC. I was out there eating lunch and took a good hard look at the exterior. It really does need spiffing up with some bigger signs. "

lovemyboys wrote on Nov 20, 2008 1:19 PM:

" Boxer -- I won't fall over. LOL!

It really helps to know someone who currently works there to know the ins and outs.

I really think they're biggest problem is the rent they charge..it is a nice building if they would just give some incentive for stores to want to come...but, I'm not management so I have no say. Although I'd like to go the mall office and give them a little advice. "

beehumble wrote on Nov 20, 2008 12:47 PM:

" Bosco,
JCPD has a whole city to watch out for they don't have the time or the resources to babysit our kids at the mall. I can suggest (my father was a cop in a big city for 30 years) the mall may consider a flat rate compensation to off duty officers that would like a little extra cash. My dad did it for the smaller malls in the big city and the country club. The mall also had their own security, but it made a big diff to have that one officer in the mall. "

want2keepntouch wrote on Nov 20, 2008 12:34 PM:

" .............. "

jcresident wrote on Nov 20, 2008 11:45 AM:

" As a one time working stiff at the mall for many years and a current shopper of the mall...I must admit there is not much that appeals to me in the center. I do shop Penny's, Dillards, and get a sandwich occassionally. There isn't much to choose from, I ususally go to Columbia about 5 times a month to do my "mall" shopping. Thank heavens we have target in the area! I am sick to death of wal-mart and kohl's...can't get any customer service at the times I have been shopping. I ususally just walk out. I hope the mall doesn't close or loose anymore stores, I would LOVE to see more businesses "

boxergal wrote on Nov 20, 2008 10:48 AM:

" They did Boscoe but not sure anymore. I haven't seen their cars out back like I used to. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 20, 2008 10:47 AM:

" Oh yea, I heard all about the renta cops. Worthless. "

Boscoe wrote on Nov 20, 2008 10:16 AM:

" Doesn't JCPD have an office in the Mall? Why can't they help out more? "

ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 20, 2008 9:41 AM:

" boxer that is true it was getting bad. But what is worse is the renta cops (security) that they have out there. They were a big part of the problems that were going on. Instead of throwing out the troublemakers they would stand around joking with them. And before someone says I dont know what Im talking about I did help Manage one of the stores in that mall that is still there. When kids start stealing, threatening, ect we need to have them taken away in a real cop car where mommy and daddy have to pay to get them out instead of joking with them. I think its time to go old school and bring back some disapline back to kids. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 20, 2008 8:26 AM:

" OK, don't fall over lovemy...I am going to side with you here. My son worked at a teen store there and also the toy store. He told me how wild it got on Fridays. Also, my sister in law tried years ago to go shopping on a Friday night and a young teen came within an inch of hitting her in the parking lot. It was a glorified babysitting service before they put a stop to it. "

lovemyboys wrote on Nov 20, 2008 8:17 AM:

" By the way, a big reason the teenagers were kicked out was not only because they were rude and discouraging shoppers, they were doing more shoplifting at stores than spending $$.

I'm all for giving teens a fair shake and I realize that not all are problems, but like anything else, it only takes a few to mess it up for everybody.

If teens want respect, they first have to show it. Unfortunately, teens today are their own worst enemies. "

lovemyboys wrote on Nov 19, 2008 2:13 PM:

" Man, you guys are just "doom and gloom". Mr. Fleming..you must not have been out of your house since the 1980's...good grief! I don't shop much downtown either, but I know it exists.

Just because many of you on here don't shop there doesn't mean that noone shops there. Go there during lunchtime any day of the week and you'll see a pretty good crowd. I go to the Dollar Tree alot and always have to wait in line.

I don't shop at every store and we do frequent Walmart even though I dread going. Why? Low Prices...everything in one store. Convenience and price. "

Boscoe wrote on Nov 19, 2008 12:19 PM:

" There is something seriously wrong when one-half the mall is empty space, but yet retailers continue to build strip malls and more space away from the mall.

I see the mall imploding very soon with the diminished economy. Capital Mall will soon be just like KC's Blue Ridge Mall.

Very Sad. "

Marvin Fleming wrote on Nov 18, 2008 10:07 PM:

" I too didn't know that the Jefferson City mall was still open. It's been a blight on the soul of this town since the day it opened. The only thing it was ever good for was buying drugs at electroworld, that and there was a half decent burrito place there in the mid eighties. Our city would be better served if it was plowed under and turned into a giant community garden or maybe a graveyard of broken, sick and wrong dreams...do they still have an orange julius? "

countercouple wrote on Nov 18, 2008 1:31 PM:

" Nospinzone,

I agree two more walmarts would do well here. I dislike walmart but I'm also a capitalist,..if thats what the market wants then thats what the market should have.

Thanks for the info about the JC malls attendance level in the early eighties.

The JC mall situation seems indicutive to the economic health of the JC area.

Bad city leadership=less and lower paying jobs=less money for people to spend at the mall.

LOL about the counterculture comment, my wife and I actually just like eating a the counters when we go to diners. I love wordplay! "

nospinzone wrote on Nov 18, 2008 1:16 PM:

" This city could have 4 Walmarts and they would be
full 24-7, no lie .... "

nospinzone wrote on Nov 18, 2008 12:35 PM:

" Hey counterculture , I mean countercouple , you are dead on in regards to failing points on our mall, and correct on a few in Columbia, but you leave out the college crowd in Columbia, makes that mall thrive, and higher income base in Columbia, not to mention
almost three times the area population to that mall
Those factors do not exsist here . This mall was not well attended when it 1st opened in 1980 , when it was brand new . This is a Walmart city , bottom line "

countercouple wrote on Nov 18, 2008 11:40 AM:

" Well Beehumble and Naturally have given us the elderly veiwpoint on the issue maybe now we can get back to reality.

Lets look at why the Columbia mall is doing more buisness than JC. New stores, more stores, better product and better location. It's true the company that owns both malls is in dire straits,..I wonder which mall they'll close or sell? The new one thats making money? or the crappy one that looks like it belongs in some horriable 70's movie? "

naturally wrote on Nov 18, 2008 10:31 AM:

" well for example, he refers to John McCain as "the old man". he spent days gloating over the "landslide" victory. Actually it wa a small popular vote margin. Just another example of bad influence.
BTW I doubt any of us spend all day every day on this paper but it does help me keep up on daily news and my neighbor's opinions. "

beehumble wrote on Nov 18, 2008 9:40 AM:

" Naturally, your right these are the only post I have seen from Sandhouse. I don't not spend all day everyday checking, reading, and commenting in these forums like some of the others. Therefore, I can not judge him by other posts or what others say about him/her. Also, that does not mean I can't smile at his sarcasms in "this" forum. "

naturally wrote on Nov 18, 2008 6:05 AM:

" boscoe - I know you were being sarcastic and appreciate the sanity.
That kind f gov. illogic has made me neaseaus for a long time. You can't build a country on capitalism alone. It is a misrepresentation of the concept. First you have to produce a quality product then you have to be able to demand wages that assue purchasing power. We abandoned number 1 during the 70's when we wanted more for less. Number 2 followed. We let the rest of the world do the hard part and still expected the reward. "

Boscoe wrote on Nov 17, 2008 8:18 PM:

" ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 17, 2008 2:45 PM:

" Also if as a community we dont step up and take action for the way we spend money and also show our youth how to start to spend wisely we will never get out of the mess we are in as a nation. Kids need to understand that they dont always get the newest games, playsystems, computers, phones, clothes ect just because they want them."

Now that is a very unpatriotic statement! Don't you know the government is counting on all consumers to go deeper into debt and start SPENDING?!?!? The government says that consumers are not buying enough and that is why we are in a recession! "

naturally wrote on Nov 17, 2008 5:34 PM:

" beehumble wrote ..."I here and see grown adults walking around daily with no better attitude or behavior. Just like in here. "

yeah, beehumble, just like sandhouse. If he makes you smile then maybe this is the only post you've seen. Most of the time he does not communicate well, maybe its an alter-ego.

There were a lot of factors that went into this downturn for the Mall. Innovation is never out of style. "

beehumble wrote on Nov 17, 2008 4:31 PM:

" There is nothing that says the mall is closing. Everyone is making speculations. I for one do not shop at it very often, but will be very sad to see it go if such happens. Another big business closing in this town is nothing to be mocking or praising. Some of you are talking about the teens behavior in here...stop and look or listen to yourselves. Where do you think they get it from. Parent aren't the ONLY role models for our youth. ALL adults are responsible for acting as role models around kids. I here and see grown adults walking around daily with no better attitude or behavior. Just like in here. "

beehumble wrote on Nov 17, 2008 4:26 PM:

" Boscoe some of things you say on these forums are pretty sensible, but in this one some of them are senseless and make you seem childish. "

beehumble wrote on Nov 17, 2008 4:23 PM:

" Sandhouse your comments make me smile they are so straight forward and dead on.

There goes some of that extra sale tax money for the ambulance fund or whatever it was suppose to be for. "

beehumble wrote on Nov 17, 2008 4:09 PM:

" Countercouple said, "I still take my paycheck from jeff city but I spend it at other places,..like say the Columbia mall."
That was a stupid comment considering Columbia Mall is being effected by this too. "

ODF wrote on Nov 17, 2008 3:22 PM:

" LOL about the boardgames!! We play board games, card games, dice games, etc.. The other day my son saw an ad for the new electronic banker version of Monopoly and said we needed to get that. I told him absolutely not...the "manual" version we have now is just fine and doing a little math never hurt anyone! LOL!! "

ODF wrote on Nov 17, 2008 3:20 PM:

" The only benefit of that whole situation was that my son was with me....he saw, firsthand, what I mean when I'm talking about out of control kids, he saw how I handled myself in the midst of the situatuion and he knows what his punishment will be if he ever acts like that to anyone without appropriate justification (meaning he is taught to defend himself when necessary). "

ODF wrote on Nov 17, 2008 3:18 PM:

" When I was young, if I'd have talked to an adult like that kid did me I would have been picking my butt up off the ground. When my parents got involved, I would have been doing it again and then apologizing...and they would have thanked the people for "straightening me out". They would not have accused the people of assault, called the police and/or threatened a lawsuit. "

ODF wrote on Nov 17, 2008 3:16 PM:

" ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 17, 2008 2:42 PM:
I have come to realize that when it comes to the teens who are disrespectful you dont have to look to far to see that their parents are the same way.

I agree...I think it can be attributed to one (or more) of many things....
*parents are just as rude, if not moreso
*parents are not involved and/or really don't care because they are too self-involved
*parents have been too lax on rules and kids have ran wild for too long so parents have no control
*laws have tied parents hands in many cases to restrict certain forms of discipline
*the sue-happy society...etc.. "

ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 17, 2008 2:47 PM:

" We need to go back to the days where stores were closed on Sundays and people went to church then to families homes to share time. Where families played cards and boardgames and actually talked to one another. I found it funny how many kids didnt know what a boardgame was during our ice storm when the power went out. Its time to get families back to camping, fishing, and taking time to look at our state together. Get outside instead of staying inside. When people start taking the time not to be lazy and start using money wisely things will change. "

ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 17, 2008 2:45 PM:

" Also if as a community we dont step up and take action for the way we spend money and also show our youth how to start to spend wisely we will never get out of the mess we are in as a nation. Kids need to understand that they dont always get the newest games, playsystems, computers, phones, clothes ect just because they want them. When we start showing that its the value of the person and how they conduct themselves that means something not what they wear or how big of a house or the newest gadgets they carry then we will start turning things around. Our nation is based on who owns the most and that is sad. "

ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 17, 2008 2:42 PM:

" I have come to realize that when it comes to the teens who are disrespectful you dont have to look to far to see that their parents are the same way. And most teens that arent allowed to be like that at home the second you say is that how you would want your parents to see you they will stop...the others they tend to talk back quickly. Ive never had a problem telling a teen that I wasnt going to listen to their mouth and that I would gladly shove a bar of soap in their mouth if they keep it up. I think that parents and teachers need to work together and put a stop to the kind of disrespect we are talkingOf "

ODF wrote on Nov 17, 2008 1:29 PM:

" ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 17, 2008 12:33 PM:
I must say one thing I agree with is that teens now adays are disrespectful of many adults. Not all teens but the few that are ruin it for the rest.

I agree not all, but anymore my experience has been that tween & teen rudeness is the norm and not the exception. I actually got confronted by some punk 10-11 year old in at Casey's one evening because he thought I cut in front of him at the checkout line. He's just lucky that I was raised right or he would have ended up in the hospital (and me in jail). "

ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 17, 2008 12:33 PM:

" I must say one thing I agree with is that teens now adays are disrespectful of many adults. Not all teens but the few that are ruin it for the rest. Everyone thought it was a great idea to not allow teens in the mall on Friday and Saturdays without parents present at all. In theory that was great but those same teens were spending money at places like Hot Topic, $1 Tree, Bulkies, Debs, ect and now those stores have seen a decline in sales from those teens. So see when we turn away all for the acts of some it hurts us as well. Instead we need to find away to keep the trouble makers away. "

cinnamon wrote on Nov 16, 2008 8:09 PM:

" Boscoe, this is the first time I've ever disagreed with something you said, but where can one get a corn-dog at the Mall? When was the last time you were there? "

cinnamon wrote on Nov 16, 2008 8:08 PM:

" The Rickster states: "I want my money to go into the pockets of local people."

It sure does! Have you seen the prices local people charge?! Wow!

And you must imagine Wal-Mart busing (bussing?) workers up from Arkansas HQ, for surely no one local could possibly be employed there! HA! "

lumpsinthesandbox wrote on Nov 16, 2008 7:17 PM:

" but too many parents aren't parenting at all, and left their kids run wild in the mall. So they ruined it for all of our kids -even those with paychecks. "

lumpsinthesandbox wrote on Nov 16, 2008 7:04 PM:

" Last Christmas my teen daughter and I gathered our courage and went into that Goth type store - to find a t-shirt for her boyfriend. This was after the cops ran off that scary dude with the dog collar w/spikes and freakish makeup. Afterward, we standing in line at the mall aco-bell - and this fully bearded adult man decided to do a visual check on my teen's body. He looked her up and down and graded her with a head nod. The jerk. Although my teen did not see this, I told the fool to apologize to her - which he did. The kids have money to spend - and not all the kids are wild roughians... "

Boscoe wrote on Nov 16, 2008 6:12 PM:

" Sandhouse- I see you've noticed my little leg-humping pet NoSpin. Don't worry, he makes a lot of noise as he runs around and tinkles on himself, but he is pretty much harmless. I think it is kind of cute how he humps my leg after every post! He may be worthless, but at least he is loyal. "

nospinzone wrote on Nov 16, 2008 5:36 PM:

" sandhous
who died and made you online editor ?

answer : no one the post is till here, "

countercouple wrote on Nov 16, 2008 5:31 PM:

" So it's agreed....we should close down the mall. "

countercouple wrote on Nov 16, 2008 5:01 PM:

" MRH wrote:– I didn’t train you so your words no affect on my emotions. Malls continuously flex to meet the needs of those shopping at them.

This is the best thing I have ever read. Keep reaching for that brass ring Jeff city! "

sandhouse wrote on Nov 16, 2008 3:24 PM:

" nospinzone spewed on Nov 15, 2008 10:14 PM:
" Boscoe.
make your point in one post, please, your incessant rambling on one topic makes me sea sick , you do not know apple butter from app[le s###
Nd sorry for your troubles maybe this dysfunctional family you lived in was more the problem than the schhols you blamed it on last year, maybeee , starts at home my dear, was'nt long ago you were bragging about this guy , hmmm "

Classy.

Attention Online Editor!
Clean up on Aisle 5 needed!

This post is clearly outside the bounds of this forum's guidelines. It should be deleted. "

TheRickster wrote on Nov 16, 2008 7:57 AM:

" The Mall has never been a big thing for me. I would grit my teeth and do the Christmas thing but that was it. I also hate Wally-World. I am faithful to the mom and pop stores at any and all chances I get. I can see the old downtown coming back slowly but surely. I want my money to go into the pockets of local people.
Sme of my Christmas money goes to the outlet mall at the Lake. I love the fact that I can see a store outside and go there without a mile walk to get there. "

nospinzone wrote on Nov 15, 2008 10:15 PM:

" hey boscoe maybe you should be city
admenustrater "

JCpatriot wrote on Nov 15, 2008 6:50 PM:

" FYI,
Hopefully with new ownership our Mall will get a decent paint job especially the outside walls. Also that dead corner by sears. they could put some restraurants or store we don't have & like to have Olive Garden, Golden Corral, Krispy Creme etc. would be great.

I aslo think the last owner didn't care about the appearance or quaility of our mall IE: Store selections like Boscoe somewhat said... "

Boscoe wrote on Nov 15, 2008 1:34 PM:

" Lots can be done to help the local economy. However, it takes a little creative thinking and a desire to help the overall community rather than a few of the higher-up cronies that run this town and call all the shots.

Most of the fat cats who run everything around here like it the way it is. And they vacation and spend their money at the lake or st louis or KC, so they couldn't care less about what happens here in JC. "

Boscoe wrote on Nov 15, 2008 1:31 PM:

" The city could help by building a library branch inside the mall. YMCA should be building their new facility at the mall.

City could help by widening countryclub drive, putting in sidewalks, and getting rid of those two worthless stopsign intersections and that mess of weeds and brush in the middle of the road by Red Lobster. "

Boscoe wrote on Nov 15, 2008 1:29 PM:

" And what the hell happened to Sears? No more customer service. No more parts or repair service? A dismal auto shop? Employees who know nothing about the products they sell.

Sears really bought the farm- they were so good with their catalog shopping. Imagine how Sears could really kick butt with the internet online shoppig now! However, they really lost it.

Dillards will be converted to an outlet store soon. Look how rundown and dirty the place has gotten.

The mall lost it when stores like Best Buy, Office Max, Kohls, Lowes, etc. decided to build off-site rather than be near the mall or in it. "

Boscoe wrote on Nov 15, 2008 1:26 PM:

" Remember when Royal Waterbeds used to be there- and they were always very busy selling waterbeds and furniture? "

Boscoe wrote on Nov 15, 2008 1:25 PM:

" The rent is way too high, and the utilities out there are outrageous due to poor insulation and old inefficient heating and cooling units.

The mall is in deep trouble, and I doubt anyone can do anything to save it unless they have a lot of money and some higher standards to clean the place up, fix it up, and boot out the thugs. They need better stores and higher standards throughout. Also need to think about the customers and their needs too. "

Boscoe wrote on Nov 15, 2008 1:23 PM:

" As for the kids- I agree that by kicking out the teenagers they cut their own throats. Why not let the kids come in, but have a few basic rules like no baggy pants, no smoking, no loud or rude language, etc.? Get better security guards instead of the creeps they have now. Cleabn the place up- fix up and clean the rest rooms.

The mall has not been remodeled or improved for over 30 years. No wonder no one wants to go there. Times have changed. GG needs to update and remodel. Same for the old old theaters. They are so old and out of date and nasty looking. "

Boscoe wrote on Nov 15, 2008 1:20 PM:

" Remember wehn the mall had Duff's Cafeteria and Jefferson Station restaurant? We used to actually go to the mall to dine out, and then go shopping. Who wants to eat some corn-dog or stale chinese food at the food court? They need to get some decent NICE restaurants out there! "

sandhouse wrote on Nov 15, 2008 11:59 AM:

" " I didnt even know the mall in Jefferson city was still open. No big loss. "

Classy.

If that mall closes there are going to be a lot of folks out of a job. That is, by definition, a "big loss".

Your flipness at job loss leads me to believe you are either super rich and therefore relatively impervious to the economic trainwreck, or, you are simply the kind of idiot who slows down at traffic accidents for a good eyeful.

No excuse either way, but at least one isn't an idiot.
Smile. "

mrh wrote on Nov 15, 2008 11:49 AM:

" Cou..Cult.. What ever are you talking about? I never accused you of living anywhere – just of not living, there was no apology – just a simple statement of fact, there is no anger – I didn’t train you so your words no affect on my emotions. Malls continuously flex to meet the needs of those shopping at them. They are being built and torn down all the time all over the world. By your own admission, you don’t shop here and don’t care. (so why do you comment?). So just do your thing and keep shop at Wal-Mart so you can continue your fashion statement. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 15, 2008 9:14 AM:

" Naturally - Mowed over....don't we know that. Its koo koo at times. Gosh, thats terrible, you were very lucky. Yes, the economy has made it fairly tolerable. As far as this mall goes, I have been thinking about it and honestly, other than the employees losing jobs, I could give a hoot. Dillards has turned into Nordstroms and is way too expensive. I am doing internet this season, I love my UPS man. "

chakkers wrote on Nov 15, 2008 9:02 AM:

" This mall is "stale" & looks the same now as it did 30 yrs ago with the exception of a few changing store fronts. This mall never really has had a real high occupancy rate. However I have seen several malls that are worse off. So imho we shouldn't be too concerned it will fold despite trouble GGP is having. I have never been fond of the food court selection. However Daily Grind has opened up in the old Taco Bell space. This is a very nice addition. They even open at 7:00 am for those wanting a morning cup of joe. "

naturally wrote on Nov 15, 2008 8:55 AM:

" so maybe its not the ownership but the management that is the problem?
Trends and priorities do change and unless you keep up you can give up.

boxer - no I don't want any abandoned boat, their are reports of some on the coast. We had a place on the lake about 20 years ago but when our runabout got mowed over by a cigar boat as we were coasting away from Millstone it just didn't have the same appeal. We almost lost 3 family members to that accident and the court didn't hold the other crew liable even though they were drunk. Then we started raising babies and going back to school so priorities changed.
Peaceful now though? enjoy "

nospinzone wrote on Nov 15, 2008 3:45 AM:

" This mall has never done much but break even, no surprise , its been a tax write off from day one, why do you think it is still hear despite this, same with a few food chain restaurants, such as Staek and Shake, some of you
act surprised, Columbia Mall , as you all well know , cares about profit, owned by same company. Two malls same owner run totally different "

countercouple wrote on Nov 14, 2008 10:42 PM:

" MRH- Actually I said I shopped at the Columbia mall, not that I live in columbia. Your apology is accepted.

The Jeff city mall is going down hill,..just like Jeff City. It's not that big of a deal. You'll lose a mall and gain a few hundred very nice unemployed people. Disagreeing with me, no matter how angery you might be wont change this. "

mrh wrote on Nov 14, 2008 9:48 PM:

" Do a little basic research and you can find that the violent crime rate in Columbia is more than 150% the rate in Jefferson City. I guess that countercouple and others are living in their own little world where basic facts don’t matter. Oh well, this shows once again that you can fool some people most of the time. "

Mac1974 wrote on Nov 14, 2008 9:47 PM:

" Antioch? Oh wow, you must remember Blue Ridge then. I can remember my Mom dragging me there when I was really young. "

go4it2 wrote on Nov 14, 2008 9:26 PM:

" I use to call it FREAKY FRIDAY when i went to the Mall on Friday nights. The kids were so rude. I was trying to get out of the door with my grandchild in a stroller and this kid just ran out between me and the stroller. What i should of done is stuck out my foot. Then i overheard a girl cussing out one of the officers there. He should of just hauled her to jail and let the parents pick them up there. They are not babysitters. "

online_editor wrote on Nov 14, 2008 4:13 PM:

" Mac: I've been to Zona Rosa. It's nice but I thought the parking garage was awkward. I don't understand the advantage to outdoor shopping plazas, given Missouri weather. Ironically, back in the 1970s, the old Antioch shopping center in KC originally was built with outdoor courtyards between all the stores, but they eventually put a roof over the common areas because indoor malls had become the trend. "

lovemyboys wrote on Nov 14, 2008 4:07 PM:

" I'll give you an example, my husband was at the Capital 8 theaters with a City fire truck (he's a firefighter) helping to promote the Ladder 49 movie...a kid walked by, looked at the truck and spit on it right in front of my husband...he made the kid wipe it off with his own shirt after he got a good chewing out. If that was our kid, he would have a hand on his behind and been made to do a formal apology.

Many of them (Not all) are disrespectful of people and property...noone is going to put up with that for long. And while there are many good teenagers, unfortunately, the "bad apples" ruin it for everyone. "

lovemyboys wrote on Nov 14, 2008 4:05 PM:

" The teenagers ruined it for themselves. They were harrassing other customers, blocking entrances, and not spending that much $$...they were basically a nuisance and detering business. And, frankly, the Mall doesn't need that.

I'm not saying that they should have been banned, but you know,,,unless you work out there, you don't know. It was hundreds of teens w/no supervision just let loose. "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 3:50 PM:

" LOL!! Wrong Mac. I tried on a pair of $150 Oakleys or similar brand at the mall one time. Guess what, they fit just as like the $20 pair of polarized from Bass Pro and the $14 pair from Wal-Mart. LOL!! "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 3:37 PM:

" ODF - Well, I used to splurge but no more. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 3:36 PM:

" I agree but I guess too many people used it as a babysitting service and the kids went koo koo. "

hmarie775 wrote on Nov 14, 2008 3:33 PM:

" Maybe the mall wouldn't be doing so badly if they hadn't banned their highest demographic - teenagers. They said it was getting over-run with teens on Fri & Sat nights, but when I go there on weekend nights it's now a ghost town. WHy not let the kids fill it up and let them spend their babysitting and McDonald's paychecks on American Eagle and Hot topic clothes, and in the food court? "

Mac1974 wrote on Nov 14, 2008 3:30 PM:

" Oh come on ODF, you'd try on a pair of Gucci sunglasses one time and be SOLD! "

Mac1974 wrote on Nov 14, 2008 3:28 PM:

" I was just using that as an example. I know that store wouldn't work here. A mall here wouldn't need to have a Neiman Marcus, Sak's or Bloomingdales to be successful.

Would like to have a Macy's though. I like buying my slacks there. "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 3:27 PM:

" I agree boxer .... I refuse to pay $20 more for something simply because it's got a name brand label on it. I could care less if my shirt has a duckhead, alligator, polo symbol, etc. on it...and it's darn sure not worth twice the price because of it.

Remember the days when companies like John Deere and others actually GAVE AWAY hats and t-shirts as forms of free advertising? Now those type of name brand labels ADD to the price of apparel. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 3:18 PM:

" Well Mac - thats a real nice thought. Shopping at Nieman Marcus. I bought one thing from them and felt priviledged to do that. Now just how do you think a place like that would go over in JC? Too funny. But hey, for a minute there, it took me away. I think a road trip might be in order. If nothing else, just for the ambiance. "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 3:13 PM:

" Mac - Where's the new shopping area at Branson? Are you talking about down in old Branson, along the riverfront?

We haven't made it down there yet, but I've heard it's a really nice area. "

Mac1974 wrote on Nov 14, 2008 3:11 PM:

" Oh, thanks for reminding me, odf, I knew I was forgetting one.

The new shopping area in Branson. I don't know if any of you've been there, but it's hard to classify that simply as a "strip mall."

It just seems like people are really drawn to those types of malls now. Legends and Zona Rosa both have the "actors" and bands that stand around and entertain just like the new shopping center in Branson. "

Mac1974 wrote on Nov 14, 2008 3:09 PM:

" A google search will give you a muriad of articles explaining why all indoor malls are on their way out. They're terribly expensive to build and (like ODF's been talking about) the rent is astronomical even for a kiosk.

An interesting website is deadmalls.com. It's almost a 100% guarantee that the building will be completely abandoned if the stores leave.

It's financially impossible to try and run any other business out of them. "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 3:07 PM:

" Mac - They sound like the outdoor venues along the warf and docks in Destin, FL and such. Man, those are great. You can get a bite to eat (from pub munchies to gourmet dinner) do some shopping, catch some street entertainers, etc.. However, I think with a little planning and thought, JC could do something like that along the river and still have the Capital Mall be successful. "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 3:04 PM:

" Good luck unrecon...and be careful out there! I'd like to say I'll be deer hunting...but it's more like trying to keep the idiot road hunters and trespassers at bay. "

Mac1974 wrote on Nov 14, 2008 3:03 PM:

" My earlier posts were sort of vague. I wasn't talking about strip malls when I said "outdoor." I'm talking about malls like The Legends and Zona Rosa. These are the "new" malls that will be replacing the indoor bohemoths in the coming years. You can eat a $100 steak, shop at Neiman Marcus, buy a t-shirt, listen to live music and even rent luxury apartments at them. Go to zonarosa.com to see what I'm talking about. When we go to K.C., we sometimes hang out there, get a bite to eat and do some clothes shopping. legendsshopping.com is another good mall to go to. Any of you who've been to Cabla's in K.C. might have already been. "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 3:03 PM:

" Naturally - I don't know that they are abandoning their boats. But I can tell you this, when gas was pushing $5/gallon this summer the boat traffic was WAY down and big boats were rare. We were able to go out in the main channel and not fight the waves like you used to see during the week. Heck, you could even waterski the main channel early on Saturdays and Sundays....it's been 15 or 20 years since I've seen the lake where you could do that. I know the average boat owner at the lake loved it, because 18-25 foot ski boats and runabouts were no longer outsized. That was one of the few pluses of high gas. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 3:02 PM:

" You too unrecon. Naturally - well not sure about abandoning, you looking for a free one? Its bad. There are boats in our docks that haven't moved out of their slips for a long time. Who could afford to run them? There is a realtor that keeps e mailing me (like I could even afford to buy something else) and telling me that they have so much property on their hands. If I see a spare boat floating around, I will let ya know. You can come down a throw a rope around it. "

unreconstructed wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:53 PM:

" got to sign off for now, let's all hope things get better. Everyone have a great weekend and stay safe if you're deer-hunting! "

naturally wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:51 PM:

" boxer - are people abandoning their boats yet down there? "

naturally wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:49 PM:

" yeah ODF, I remember when everyone scoffed at the 'housing bubble' projections. It was the same thing before the depression when stocks were flipped and every one was rolling in the dough. Problem was, it was borrowed dough and when the bottom dropped out the banks were left holding the empty bag.
I don't know if it will get to depression era losses but there will definitely be a wake-up call, That was when Pennys almost went out of business the first time. I hope they learned something from those days. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:46 PM:

" OH, lucky you. I just never found a bargain there. And you have to walk so darned far. And then during Christmas, its crazy. I was going to go down this weekend and said forget it, its going to be nutsville. But when isn't it there? "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:45 PM:

" Actually, I do online, you can't beat it. "

unreconstructed wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:41 PM:

" I'm like you boxergal, I don't particularly like the outet mall either, but darn it, my wife loves the place! "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:40 PM:

" crowd, sorry. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:40 PM:

" unrecon - You have it right. There are places that do rentals (condos) during the Christmas shopping season. Only because there are other things to do, like spas, etc. Like I said, I don't care too much for the outlet mall but they sure do draw the crow, especially over the holidays. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:38 PM:

" ODF - I haven't been in a kiddy place for years and years. The home units came on the market right after my son was out of that stage. But I can imagine what they are like. "

unreconstructed wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:38 PM:

" The outlet mall will always do a fair amount of business, because the Lake of the Ozarks is still a "destination" that people will come back to again and again. ODF hit it on the head, the Capitol Mall is no longer a "destination". Competition is far greater now in this town, and when the economy slips as it has, people will go to the Walmarts of the world far more often than the Malls. "

stop wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:36 PM:

" The problem with security is that they are often the very people you have to worry about. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:35 PM:

" I hate the outlet mall. And I am not sure but I don't think anyone wishes bad on it. There are a couple of women there that are managers that are terrific people and I would hate to see their stores go under. However, one of them (on the corner that does bath things) told me they do big business. "

lovemyboys wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:32 PM:

" As for the kid idea, it was just an idea...I have 3 active boys and would love to have a large place for them to run and wear themselves out without bothering other shoppers and store owners esp when the weather is not conducive to outdoor play.

You would have to have very good security for the kids' area, of course, and the details could be worked out, but those two play areas at the Mall are used alot now by parents. They are a God send on bad weather days...

With a little forethought and finding out what people want, that could be a nice mall. But, the corporation that owns it, has the final say unfortunately. "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:32 PM:

" I don't wish for it to close at all....just the opposite. I would love to see it become what it used to be...a destination. Unfortunately, like many parts of and places in JC it has staled and it seems nobody really seems to care. I buy some things over there...but I'm not about to shop there and pay $5-$20 more for an item when I can get the same thing cheaper at a non-mall store. "

lovemyboys wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:28 PM:

" My sister-in-law said she sees quite a number of folks from the Lake, Versailles, and surrounding areas. She was curious why people from the Lake would come up here and they told her that they don't like the Outlet Mall at the Lake...so not everyone feels the same. I shop at certain stores for different reasons (we all do that). Don't assume because you think the Mall is terrible that everyone feels that way,,and people earn their living there. I never wish for anything to close because it is livlihood for some. "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:26 PM:

" boxer - That was probably back when video games were fun and played for fun. Have you been to the place at the mall lately....or Bonkers...or any of those? No longer is it about playing the game. A vast majority of these places are nothing more than kiddy casinos. It's about paying big bucks to "play" games, get tickets and turn those in for carnival-like prizes. I wonder how much backing some of these places have from casino companies...because many of the "games" now days are gambling, plain and simple. "

lovemyboys wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:24 PM:

" My office is not far from the Mall and I go there about once every couple weeks to shop or grab a bite to eat. The food court is pretty busy at lunchtime and remember folks...just because there are a lot of people, doesn't mean they are spending $$. They could be just hanging around, walking the mall, or browsing.

Dillards, Penneys and Sears do not pay rent...they OWN their own building attachments..they pay a FRONTAL fee to be part of the mall. "

lovemyboys wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:18 PM:

" Add some entertainment features, (ie movie theaters, bowling alley, etc) and watch the people come. We need more and better entertainment for all age groups. Keep the Senior eating place and the stores that are doing fine.

My sister-in-law works at CJ Banks and she said they are kicking butt in sales. The Capital Mall is busier than you think...the biggest problem is the rent. And, keep in mind, that since that mall was built, look at all the stores that have been added to this city. There's a lot more competition than there was 30+ years ago.

The Galleria Mall in St. Louis (yes, St. Louis) is over $2 million in losses. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:15 PM:

" Your idea is good but boy have things changed. I almost raised my kid on the video place out there years ago. And even then there was a pervert that hung around. But it was nice for the kids to have an outlet in that place. Someone was telling me they heard Dillards might go out also that they had converted to Nordstroms type wear and prices. "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:10 PM:

" love - I agree with the part about the city probably not having much control over the mall owners, etc.. What I'm suggesting is at least an open dialogue with the company...maybe some incentive packages to encourage GGP to reduce rental costs which would encourage new and more diverse stores. Capitla Mall is stale, the rates are outrageous and if GGP cannot see that, then they shouldn't be in the mall business. However, I think Capital Mall is probably more about accepting a loss for the books in order to devote more resources to their bigger/better malls properties. "

stop wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:10 PM:

" lovemyboys that would be a great idea except for one thing the kids would not be safe. I wouldn't let my girls go to the Capital Mall for any reason. "

lovemyboys wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:02 PM:

" I do believe that I will contact my council person and just ask how much input the city has on businesses, etc.

Okay, my idea is this...gut the center of the mall, and build a HUGE play area. Charge a nominal fee for kids to get in and of course make it safe by stamping hands of kids that match parents, etc(like Bonkers and Chuck E. Cheese do), then surround with stores that have been successful in this market. Discount stores do better than your high end stores here but you could have a mix of both. Then, parents could shop while their kids play and everybody wins.

Yes, the rent is too high..agreed on that one. "

lovemyboys wrote on Nov 14, 2008 1:59 PM:

" Here's my opinion and I'm trying to look at this from a business/marketing perspective.

First, I'm not sure how much control the City has over the Mall and what they charge...doesn't that come from their corporate office in Chicago? By the way, GGP has over 400 malls nationwide and is the 2nd largest purchaser/owner of malls.

Second, I agree that it's bad everywhere. If you don't think Columbia Mall will be affected, think again.

I actually e-mailed Capital Mall mgmt yesterday with some suggestions for what it's worth. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 1:37 PM:

" ODF - people used to "flip" condos at the lake all of the time. NO more. There are so many on the market and none are selling. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 1:35 PM:

" mel - and you are forgetting surf wear. Oh yes, JC needs to buy surf wear, what with winter and all. That shop already went out of business. "

unreconstructed wrote on Nov 14, 2008 1:24 PM:

" Most importantly, take care of yourself and your family ndn, sure don't wish that kind of trouble on anyone.

Secondly, times are pretty tough right now, but this country has seen worse, and this country will come through this. I didn't vote for the man, but let's hope Mr. Obama succeeds, early indications seem to show a willingness to be bi-partisan. No economy stays on top and continues to "roll" forever, it always goes through peaks and valleys. The next few months should prove to be very interesting. "

melbrooks wrote on Nov 14, 2008 1:21 PM:

" I think there is enough room for both the strip malls and the enclosed mall. It's just that General Growth has to understand that Columbia and Jefferson City are two different markets. When rents are reasonable, store variety will grow.

A new owner might actually be a good thing.

I don't it's a good idea to limit much of anything (other than stuff like the former juice bar!)--sounds too much like a planned economy to me.

Penney's will be fine. Companies like Abercrombie will be in for a rough patch. "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 1:20 PM:

" I remember seeing news stories when real estate was THE hot market to be in....there were stories about condos in Florida being sold, resold, and resold AGAIN....and these were condos that hadn't even been BUILT yet. Each turnover netted an additional profit. It is exactly that type of activity that, as well as some of the Clinton-era intiatives that have caused the housing market to tank.
Now Congress is wanting to change the whole bailout plan and bail out credit/lending companies so they will start lending to consumers again. Do these people not get it? It is over-extension of credit to main street that has helped put us in this financial crisis. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 1:07 PM:

" Don't get me started on that. (worthless) "

stop wrote on Nov 14, 2008 1:02 PM:

" what will those fine upstanding men in mall secirity go if the place closes? "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:56 PM:

" Its all been a ruse. Its all been fake. A week after the economy collapsed, half of Porta Chima went up for sale at the lake. So I honestly believe the last guy standing will be like most of the people on here. The ones that watched what they did, lived in an average home and didn't try to impress everyone with what they had to have. Take care NDN, sorry you are going through a rough time. "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:35 PM:

" I know it's bad boxer...that's what I was trying to tell ky. If GGP is admitting to it being this bad...then it's much worse than it appears in the article. Some folks just don't like to think for themselves though. They think if it's in print then it must be gospel. "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:33 PM:

" Take care....be safe for yourself and your kids!! "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:32 PM:

" ndn - I don't know many people that could afford to take a paycut, much less lose a household income and still survive. Why, because they have bought the biggest house they can barely afford in the best parts of town, they buy brand new cars or lease them so there's constantly a car payment, they rack up $$ on their credit cards and then pay the bare minimum each month. In other words...living at the edge of or beyond their means. What happened to saving a little $$ each paycheck, saving to buy the things you want, driving an older (paid for) car and making due with 1500 sq. ft. house vs. a 3500 sq. ft. house? "

ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:31 PM:

" Working, going through a divorce with a man who pulled a loaded pistol on me, so just trying to make a life for me and my kids right now...fun fun "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:31 PM:

" Oh my God Mac - please don't tell me Dillards is folding. I can remember when it was a Brown Dunkin Corp., years ago.
Whats funny about this mall is that we had an enclosed one in the 70's where I grew up. I went defunct years ago. You are right about the outdoors ones. "

ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:30 PM:

" ODF you are so right and you hit it on the head with that one. When we start getting stores that are worth shopping at and the cost for them to be there isnt so high that they have to price everything so high that no one can afford it then I think things can turn around. "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:29 PM:

" What up ndn...haven't seen you 'round for awhile. "

ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:29 PM:

" has anyone kept up with how many have lost their jobs or been downsized in this year alone in just our local area? Now lets remember holidays are coming up, housing costs are going up, cost of living is going up, and jobs are down...lets see how many fall on their faces and those will be the ones who do have degrees because we dont have jobs to help them. But wait with this new president coming in everything is going to be like peaches and cream...I cant wait... "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:28 PM:

" Mac1974 wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:19 PM:
I truly believe the age of huge, indoor malls is disappearing. People just aren't interested in shopping in them anymore.

I respectfully disagree Mac. The age of big malls is not over if #1) city leaders limit strip mall building and #2) get decent retail rental rates. The mall is how many years old? No reason for them to be asking $1500 +++ for a freaking kiosk space. It's nuts.

Look at Splfd. Battlefield mall kicks butt, but it has stores you won't find anywhere else in that town. The mall courts stores that people want so people go to the mall. "

ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:26 PM:

" As for the mall I think we have all seen this coming for a long time now. When you see more spaces without any store in them then with a store you know there are problems...Its sad when it is better to drive to Columbia or the Lake to shop to have a better variety at a better price. We all need to work at making this town better instead of finding ways to keep it stale "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:25 PM:

" Hey, lets discuss small business. Right now I am getting ripped by a HVAC company. Is this the wave of the future? Charge people more to offset this mess?? "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:24 PM:

" ODF - I found an article on line about this company ITS BAD. And NDN is right. Hey, they could use the mall for the homeless. "

ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:24 PM:

" Gas is at $1.95 as of this morning a full tank in the average size of vehicle cost $35-$40 to fill up and figure on doing that about 5-6x a month so between $175-$210 a month on gas. Now this doesnt include if you have any credit cards, car payment or insurance on vehicles...so each month the average family pays a minium of $1645...wow I wonder with a state pay of $1630 bring home could I make it without another income in my home?? "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:23 PM:

" mel - I'm not sure if the mall in JC is viable anymore. With the exponential growth of strip malls and everybody moving to lower costs strip malls (many companies build the malls, put in their store then lease the rest of the spaces), this mall may be doomed.

Had JC leaders put a little effort into it, maybe they could have restricted some of the strip mall (and payday loan) stores, worked with GGP to offer reasonable rates on Capital Mall space and then it would be a revenue source instead of an eyesore. "

Mac1974 wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:23 PM:

" Someone is going to think, "Penny's? Folding?"

Yeah, and I remember my Mom taking me to Monky Wards when I was a kid. Who'd a thunk that place would have ever been history?

Don't worry though, white trash Wal-Mart will always be there to fill the void. Hey, I heard they are starting their own smaller grocery store chain. There are rumors floating around already that we'll see every single large grocery store disappear in 5 to 10 years if this happens.

GAWD bless capitalism! "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:23 PM:

" Naturally - Penneys has a big sale going on right now. "

ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:21 PM:

" Lets see everyone says that what has happened is everyone living above their means. I wonder how many people in Jefferson City if they were to lose just one job within a 2 income household would be able to keep making ends meet? The average cost for a 3bedroom to rent is $700+, electric $150, water & sewer $70, trash $78 every 3 months...that doesnt include the cost for groceries. And usually if a family needs a 3bedroom you are talking 3 kids and 2 adults. So just for normal household is $946, then food cost for a family of 5 if you are good on average can be as low as $550. Now dont forget gas to get to work.... "

naturally wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:21 PM:

" That's IT! I'm doing all my Cristmas shopping at Pennys. Talk about History! "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:21 PM:

" ky - I don't give a flying leap if you believe me or not. But please, don't come on here scolding people about reading the article and try to convince us the article (and the corporate angle) is the God's honest truth....because I guarantee you that GGP is overstating/understating their position to make themselves look viable...all while facing bankruptcy! "

Mac1974 wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:19 PM:

" I truly believe the age of huge, indoor malls is disappearing. People just aren't interested in shopping in them anymore.

If you get a chance some time, go to one of the new outdoor malls and check it out. (not that dilapidated thing in Osage Beach) You'll instantly realize why this mall will be empty before long. "

naturally wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:18 PM:

" The current economy alone was not the demise of the Mall. If someone sees the potential (it'll be masked in the bad economy) they could still turn it around. First off they have to find products that appeal to the JC population. Trying to emulate the Columbia Mall didn't work.

As for the rest of JC, too bad history doesn't sell well, it could be rich in historical attractions. "

Mac1974 wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:16 PM:

" My 2 cents:

My wife and I do most of our shopping in Columbia and the rest in K.C. I've been in the mall here probably twice in last 3 years (Sears for tires). I'm not a marketing expert for Macy's, but they'd be fools to put a store in this filthy, stinky building here in J.C. The only reason Dilliards is still there is because the entire chain is getting ready to fold (just read this last week). Penny's is supposed to fold shortly too.

I really don't think this is about economy. I think it's just the evolution of shopping. Have any of you been to the new outdoor malls in-K.C.-or-St. Louis? They're-flooded-with-people-when-it's-20-degrees-outside. "

countercouple wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:10 PM:

" I hate to think of what the crime rate/murder rate will jump to in the future. Does anyone live in the high crimes areas of JC? Has the crime rate increased there? "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:04 PM:

" Whoops, Mallory. And just a sidenote - I stood behind a young man at a mall shop the other day that was begging for a part time job. Begging. And he was degreed. Again, its sad and it makes me ill. "

countercouple wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:04 PM:

" Webamerica is totally right. New industry being brought into town five or six years ago would have helped insulate us from these types of problems. Now its time to lay in the bed the City council has made for us.

Of course I wont, I moved to a zero crime area that has a bustling local economy and a forward looking governmental culture. I still take my paycheck from jeff city but I spend it at other places,..like say the Columbia mall.

*smiles* "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 11:59 AM:

" Look at it this way....meth production will be up. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 11:56 AM:

" be hiring. Like I said, dreamers and you are right, your taxes will be going up. Oh and the parking tickets, that is IF there are any shops left uptown. Word to the wise, you better hang onto your panties. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 11:55 AM:

" You all had your chance and blew it big time. OH well. The ever optimistic JC. Oh wait, the stock opened at 36 yesterday closed at 63 cents. They are in such dire straights that they are now not paying dividends. I am sorry, I believe in being optomistic but sometimes I think JC dreams and dreams too big. And while on the subject....I feel like writing Monica whats her name with KRCG. Get real. They had a piece that said that a hs grad makes $18,000 here. And a Bachelors will get you $46,000. I hope to God that a national average, cause trust me its way off. Number one, they have to... "

webamerica wrote on Nov 14, 2008 11:51 AM:

" Turn the mall into a casino and fill the entire parking lot. I forgot...we can't do that. Oh well, I guess we'll sit around and watch the city piggy bank dry up. And you know what that will mean...tax increases. Bottom line is...things are bad and they're going to get worse. We need jobs in this town...everybody can't work for the state. In fact, they'll be laying off next. No revenue....less employees. Any ideas? "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 11:35 AM:

" You need to read the article on line about it. Mel is right, there needs to be another buyer. I am not sure about you but when the stock hits 43 cents, things are so bad. Hopefully, another buyer will come along. "

kymizzou1 wrote on Nov 14, 2008 11:27 AM:

" ODF,
What reason do I have to not believe them. Why should I believe you? As far as I know everyone is struggling in these economic times. But surely that does not mean everyone and everything is going to go under. Stop living a life of fear. It shows you are quite cynical if you can't take a man or woman for their word. I believe you know as much as I do about this and I don't know how you can have any idea that the mall is in immediate danger of closing. If you have inside information maybe you should share with us all and the paper. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 10:54 AM:

" Good lord, their stock is worth 43 cents a share. Bankruptcy, I guess. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 10:19 AM:

" Yea, the bailouts make me sick to think about. And I love shopping at Dillards but honestly, you can't beat on line shopping. The buys are better and it comes straight to your door. I hope the mall stays open for the employees sake. I know a lot of them saw the writing on the wall about a year ago. Things were bad even then so some of the managers got out while the getting was good. "

melbrooks wrote on Nov 14, 2008 10:12 AM:

" From what I've heard, General Growth sees Columbia and Jefferson City as similar markets, so they both malls have similar rates.

Even if General Growth does declare bankruptcy and sells the mall, someone will operate it.

I think we have a large enough popluation to support the mall, but if what I've heard regarding rental rates is true, it puts the mall at a disadvantage.

It seems to me the mall is important due to the sales tax revenue it produces. Many complain they want the city to do more, but have a flippant attitude when a big part of our local economy is being affected. "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 9:40 AM:

" You are right boxer...the only problem now is everyone wants the govt to bail them out. First it was the housing industry, then banking, then auto, then it moved to states (California) and just yesterday I read that now cities (Detroit, MI) has their hands out for OUR money. What happened to earning it.

People forgot how to live within their means and budgets. Some folks will thrive and prosper, some will adapt and overcome and some will fall flat on their face. It's times like this when we see who is the cream and who isn't. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 9:33 AM:

" Oh, I am sure thats right. He worked for two places out there when he was young and said the rent (and this was years ago) was through the roof. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 9:32 AM:

" I read where only the strong will survive in this. Take for instance, Best Buy. The other companies will fold. But like ODF said, what do they expect? Underarmour sells underwear for $50.00. People have priced themselves out of business. We all had it too good for a long time. Excess. I think it may be over and I think its going to be extremely interesting to see who survives it all. "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 9:27 AM:

" boxer - I don't remember for sure, and this has been a few years back, but a friend of mine worked at one of the kiosks part-time over the holiday and it seems like she was telling me $1500/month for the smallest floor space. You have to make a BUNDLE to be able to profit enough to cover rent and other expenses. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 9:25 AM:

" ODF - I got a big laugh out of that one. "Move". Looks like a few of us could foresee the future. Stupid us, huh?? ha!!!!!!!!! "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 9:25 AM:

" kymizzou....do you REALLY believe that the corporation is going to give you, it's customers, it's investors and the general public an accurate assessment of the financial situation? Be real...and read the newspapers....corporations lie to save their hide, encourage investors and keep the wolves at bay.
For General Growth to admit this much tells me the situation is much WORSE than it appears. Instead of reading the corporate PR/BS, you need to read between the lines...that's where the truth lies! "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 9:23 AM:

" My son was a mgr. at a store there a few years back. The rent is outrageous. The store he worked for folded recently. Yea, exactly what DID the expect?? And yes, counter.....things are bad, bad. I don't want to be gloom and doom but for all of you that have state jobs, count your blessings cause retail is only going to get worse. "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 9:22 AM:

" countercouple ...you are correct, but you forgot one thing. We're supposed to move if we don't like how JC is run!! LOL!! "

ODF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 9:21 AM:

" What do they expect? I've heard the rental cost of space at the mall is astronomical. Someone told me once what the kiosks were and I was shocked. Couple that with JC being the strip mall capital of the midwest and it's no wonder the mall is failing. Just wait till that place falls under and JC "leaders" require the owners to pay an abandoned property fee and board up all the windows!! LOL!! "

countercouple wrote on Nov 14, 2008 9:14 AM:

" Sorry folks, The local economy wont support a mall thats just facts. I remember in the good ole days when JC could support the mall, good factory jobs, lots of work to go around but those days are over and so is our need for a mall.

Jefferson city is sliding into the washington DC of missouri. A vast urban-esq wasteland of no jobs and no real leadership on the city level. It's best iof you just accept this and stay indoors. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 8:50 AM:

" I think they may be talking that they will be around during the Christmas season, not sure. Things are bad. Circuit City is bancrupt, Underarmour is having trouble, Safeways and the list goes on and on. Very sad. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 8:46 AM:

" Good, causeI for one would miss Dillards. "

kymizzou1 wrote on Nov 14, 2008 8:39 AM:

" Hey everyone, read the article in its entirety,not just what you think it says or what you interpret it to say. It says, "Regardless of what happens, there will not be an impact to our customers at our facilities.” General Growth Properties Corporate Spokesman David Keating said Thursday morning, in a telephone interview from his Chicago office.
Meaning, Capital Mall is not going anywhere. No need to panic!!! It is a corporate issue not a mall issue. "

stop wrote on Nov 14, 2008 7:54 AM:

" People don’t go to Capital Mall and the people that run the place shouldn’t be surprised. In a community the size of Jefferson City it doesn’t take long for it to go around the kind of thing that go on over there. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 7:46 AM:

" hate, sorry. "

boxergal wrote on Nov 14, 2008 7:45 AM:

" I still frequent the mall. I love the sales that Penneys have. And I never see people in mullets. There are some extremely nice employees there and I just had to hear this. Also there is a place where Seniors go eat. If you think this place will not be missed you are mistaken. "

joytotheworld wrote on Nov 14, 2008 6:35 AM:

" And bald-headed old men Boscoe. Maybe the mall isn't a big deal to you, but your place of employment probably wouldn't bother me if it shut down, so think about that. Might as well put more people out of work because it's not a place you go, so it's OK. If they ever shut down Walgreens you'll be complainin' though. Jeez.... "

Boscoe wrote on Nov 13, 2008 10:31 PM:

" The pic says that the company is in trouble due to its investments. I don't think they have ever invested much in Capitol Mall since it was built in the 70s.

I agree with countercouple. The place has been running at 50% capacity for years. The few times I go out there they never seem to have anything I want. It is a good place to count mullets, though. "

mrh wrote on Nov 13, 2008 10:25 PM:

" At least countercouple is consistant with not knowing about anything. "

carolyn wrote on Nov 13, 2008 10:20 PM:

" It is a big loss and it affects Columbia Mall as well. "

tootsie wrote on Nov 13, 2008 9:50 PM:

" " I didnt even know the mall in Jefferson city was still open. No big loss. "

Maybe not to you but it does affect alot of people. Mall workers and mall shoppers alike. so it IS a big loss. "

countercouple wrote on Nov 13, 2008 7:02 PM:

" I didnt even know the mall in Jefferson city was still open. No big loss. "

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Top Commented Stories (more)

Top Commented Stories (more)

Sports Headlines

Troubled mall owner may file bankruptcy

Roger Kurtz won't seek re-election

Social Security payment exemption may disappear for some school employees

Civil trial involving fatal crash getting under way

Featured speaker shares her ‘wall of honor'

St. Peter students pinch pennies for patriots

Veterans' memorial dedicated in St. Elizabeth

Judge sentences Dorsey, affirms jury's death penalty recommendation

Stover man dies in one-car wreck

Fortuna woman injured in one-vehicle wreck

Kaiser teen hurt in collision

County would work with, then take over CRMC ambulance service

Proposed Cole County budget includes employee raises

Lincoln is looking for a dynamic coach who can move football forward

Capital City Players take on ‘The Producers'

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