News Tribune
News Tribune
Central Missouri's information you need!
 map
Sunday, July 05, 2009
News Local
Print this story | Email this story | Comment (No comments posted.) | Rate | - Text Size -

Mall isn't closing, but Rex departure adds to rumor mill

By Jeff Haldiman
News Tribune
Published: Monday, January 5, 2009 11:35 AM CST
In these tough economic times, when a store at Jefferson City's Capital Mall announces it will be leaving, it seems to create a domino affect.

Capital Mall General Manager Craig Bock confirmed Monday that Rex Electronics had chosen not to renew its lease, which expires at the end of the month.

Officials at Rex's Dayton, Ohio, headquarters were not available for comment Monday.

However, Bock said, he also is having to control rumors other shops are pulling out, and that the mall itself will shut down.

Bock said there has been recent growth at the mall. He said Wilson's Total Fitness recently completed a 4,800-square-foot expansion of its facility.

To accommodate that growth, Bock said, Christopher and Banks moved to another location.

“That's the way the real estate business works,” said Bock. “You have businesses move in and you have them move out.”

Mall anchor stores Dillards and JCPenney own their buildings. General Growth Properties, which owns the land, only is responsible for maintaining the parking lots and sidewalks.

“Now Sears is a tenant of ours,” Bock said. “However, there is nothing factual to reports that Sears is leaving.”

Bock also pointed out General Growth owns the land on which Hy-Vee, Pizza Hut, Wendy's, Central Bank, Red Lobster and Hardee's are located.


pencil ad
Previous   Next
Human remains found in Miller County   Portrait: Larry Crawford ready to go to work

Article Rating

Current Rating: 0 of 0 votes!Rate File:


Before commenting read the News Tribune Forum's policies and procedures.
Thanks.

boscoe wrote on Jan 15, 2009 12:40 PM:

" People in Jefferson City have become slobs who don't have any pride in their city or their property. The Mall just reflects a large part of the local population attitude. "

Report Abuse

boscoe wrote on Jan 15, 2009 12:39 PM:

" Justmesunnym yiur posts highlight the biggest difference between our mall and every other mall in the world. Capital Mall has not been taken care of, kept clean, let alone REMODELED to make it a nice modern facility. The owner must be taking all the Capital Mall rent money and using it to improve the Columbia Mall.

Also, the examples of decay and lack of maintenance are very similar to the general decline in Jefferson City for many other property owners, including the city hall. Things are not kept clean, maintained, rebuilt, etc. like they were 20 years ago in this town. Look at the streets and the potholes, the weeds, the trash everywhere. "

Report Abuse

Sprint10h wrote on Jan 15, 2009 8:37 AM:

" I just joined Wilson's and went into the mall area which I usually go through the front doors straight to Bath and Body and leave. But, I went down the Sears wing and was surprised to see that the whole right side (if your going towards Sears) is empty. I have to say the reason I quite going is because the stores out there are more geared towards teens and now that I am older they don't have any stores besides Dillards and Penney's which I can only afford if they are having a 70% off sale. But all the other clothing stores are for size 0 teens. Maybe if they had a Cato type store for "adults". "

Report Abuse

JCpatriot wrote on Jan 15, 2009 8:19 AM:

" Justmesonny,

You nailed the target dead on, This mall owner needs to sell. So we could have a decent mall & music stage back. Plus your right about the appearance & quality of the mall for the community. This tells me that the owner is just greedy & don't care & out for himself. I hope they all pull out, give us a Great mall back with new owners. I like spending time & money with my two kids once in awhile there. But right now the way it is ? who cares. I don't blame the stores for leaving... "

Report Abuse

Justmesunny wrote on Jan 15, 2009 7:18 AM:

" So the flagship store, Dillards, shows lack of concern for appearance. Could that be fueling the rumors of an immenent closure? Or could the shabby state be holding customers away?

The mall destroyed the stage in the central mall area. A stage upon which various entertainment venues and other events could have been held.

A stage for showcasing, supporting community talent.

Would musical events be enjoyable? Appreciated? Attempted?

Apparently the mall prefers the screaming meemee rugrat play area that duplicates another in the food court area ! Except it is less well padded! Hmmm. Wonder if there are any liablity issues that could lead to an excuse to closure? "

Report Abuse

Justmesunny wrote on Jan 15, 2009 6:51 AM:

" Pride in one's appearance?
Just look at the deporable state of repair obvious at Dillards. Bird nests in their signs. Building that has been patched on the outside with paint that may have been the original color but has been applied to faded paint and gives a generally unkempt appearance. Brass door handles that are found in all Dillards, except this one, to be highly polished. Doors that remain open rather than closing. Rugs inside that are disgustingly soiled and ratty looking. Parquet floors that are patched and could use a refinish if not replacement. A horrible odor that assaults the senses as if it may derive from lack of cleaning of the airconditioning system.
Pride? "

Report Abuse

Justmesunny wrote on Jan 15, 2009 6:43 AM:

" Capital Mall is surely showing no reall signs of trying to survive.
As one approaches the mall, there are no efforts apparent to show any kind of pride in the appearance of any landscaping that may have been there but is just being allowed to just simply fade away. Replacement of any plant material that has been ignored to death is never. The whole place has the appearance of a "Second hand rose" that is fast becoming a third hand rose!
Subjectively, one could speculate that they are simply not doing keeping the appearance up because they are going to close. The lack up real upkeep probably feeds the rumors.
Pride goeth before a fall? "

Report Abuse

lovemyboys wrote on Jan 14, 2009 1:14 PM:

" I know several people who worked PT at the Mall...ask them about the teens...they weren't spending much money...they were SHOPLIFTING and mouthing off to customers coming and going. Don't kid yourselves....if teens want respect, they need to first earn it! These same teens that spit on fire trucks right in front of the firemen...

I know, Boscoe, that not all teens are like that, but unfortunately, it only takes a handful to ruin it for everyone. "

Report Abuse

lovemyboys wrote on Jan 14, 2009 1:12 PM:

" First of all, I think these are some great ideas...why don't you all call the Mall mgmt and talk to them about these ideas? Be proactive instead of griping and complaining....as the old saying goes, "be the change you want to see."

And, Boscoe -- as for the teenagers...I agree that there is nothing for them in town, but there is nothing for them in any small town around here either. Those teens were once given a "hangout" off MO Blvd (I think it's a car sales place now) and they blew it...there were fights, drugs, liquor, you name it... "

Report Abuse

lostinjc wrote on Jan 13, 2009 10:43 PM:

" There are 3 things that last in economic hardships sex, boose and gambling and this town has fought every one of them from coming here. There is nothing to draw any visitors to this town, its already a gost town and we're the gost. A casino would have brought in torist and some night life. that might interest someone going to a convention. there needs to be more festivals that close downtown streets and draw people into those local shops. I dont have all the answers but those are a few to think about. The other thing that hurts us is that the anex didn go through so JC is a little town no big companys want to start up in "

Report Abuse

boscoe wrote on Jan 13, 2009 3:20 PM:

" Convention center at the Mall is a very good idea too.

We have all the empty space- why not fill it and use it? "

Report Abuse

boscoe wrote on Jan 13, 2009 3:19 PM:

" Also, put the new YMCA facility at the mall to save YMCA costs and to help support the Mall.

Put a west branch of the Library in the mall.

The local community / Chamber / City Hall need to support the mall and co-locate some public resources within the mall to take advantage of synergy and economies of scale. "

Report Abuse

ODF wrote on Jan 13, 2009 2:08 PM:

" mariab - You just might be onto something there. Since this town is heck-bent on having a convention center, even though there is nothing to draw conventions, tourists, or anyone else to this town, and since the mall seems to be sinking so fast it's not even funny, why not just convert the mall into the convention center? "

Report Abuse

hdan51 wrote on Jan 11, 2009 8:02 AM:

" the mall just doesn't have enough to offer. you can go to columbia in 25 to 30 minutes. you get a huge selection most generally cheaper gas. You cant just drive over there for the gas but if you going anyway why not wait till you get there. I was in the lake of the ozarks area last night and the mall down there had alot of people, Also found gas to be 1.40 per gallon compared to eldon 1.69 or jefferson city "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 11, 2009 7:42 AM:

" Neighbor. "

Report Abuse

boscoe wrote on Jan 11, 2009 12:03 AM:

" Agree with you there on the teen problem. That is the historical response from this town to teens who are looking for a place to go to have fun- just run them off. Its been happening for years. There is nothing for teens to do in this town. I've been saying for years that a Dave and Busters would proably do well here.

I've experienced the filthy bathrooms at the mall. Compare them to the bathrooms at the St Louis Galleria- no comparison at all.

Mall does need a theme and some marketing and some reasons to go there.

Boxer, I am struggling to think of the connection. Got a little bro named Greg? "

Report Abuse

mariab wrote on Jan 10, 2009 11:04 AM:

" OTOH, I *love* that the senior center is there - *that* brings some life into the place!

I could see the mall owners transition the place into a de facto convention center - plenty of parking, close by hotels, tons of potential meeting space with wings that accommodate multiple events, and kitchen facilities already in place for catering.

Too bad the owners weren't able to channel the teen "problem" into an opportunity in some way. "

Report Abuse

mariab wrote on Jan 10, 2009 10:54 AM:

" So while the mall's current situation might be even worse than in the past because of that trend thing and the economy - Capital Mall never, in my opinion, got it right in attracting new customers and building repeat business. "

Report Abuse

mariab wrote on Jan 10, 2009 10:52 AM:

" I realize that trends come and go between strip malls and enclosed malls, but in the past 15 years that I've visited Capital Mall off and on, I've never found it a particularly pleasant experience. I don't know how they are now, but the mall's restrooms were often dirty. The Dillard's store crams its stuff in so tight you'd think you were in a discount store. Plus it sells the same items sold at discount stores at a higher price, and the dressing rooms are cramped, outdated, and otherwise uninviting. It has no "brand" of its own to set it apart from other stores. The overall ambiance of the mall has always been empty and sterile to me. "

Report Abuse

JCpatriot wrote on Jan 10, 2009 8:01 AM:

" Hey Garfields in already closed & empty... oh no ? "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 9, 2009 7:20 PM:

" Those are the type of solid people that made up JC at one time. Good, hard working business people. Anyway, I just am not sure what has happened. New generation, maybe? But things just are not the same and have gone backwards instead of forward. "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 9, 2009 7:18 PM:

" You would have to be blind not to notice it. My husband came home the other day after out shopping for a particular item. The first thing he said was "that town is pitiful". And he was raised there, graduated from school there in 69. Its a real shame because the natural resources in JC and the surrounding areas are wonderful. Beautiful surroundings. I just don't know what the heck has happened but the person below is right, no one cares anymore. By the way, we may know each other. You made a statement to a person that owns an accounting office on SW Blvd. on another forum. I grew up near that person. "

Report Abuse

boscoe wrote on Jan 9, 2009 5:53 PM:

" Boxer- thanks for noticing. I know there are more people out there who know what we are talking about with the changes over the last 15-20 years. "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 9, 2009 2:41 PM:

" "whoops, he says what he thinks". sorry. "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 9, 2009 2:38 PM:

" Livin - well, there is no fight in me. We gave up years ago and moved. I have to say I admire Boscoe, at least what he says what he thinks. You can ignore it all you want but yes, JC is not what it was 20 years ago. It was a cute smallish town that was a perfect place to raise kids. It was clean back then. But when I moved here, there were cliques. And there are still the cliques in local government. I guess when everyone else moves away, those people can sit around admiring each other. "

Report Abuse

shinymcshine wrote on Jan 9, 2009 2:24 PM:

" Mac1974 wrote on Jan 9, 2009 10:00 AM:

" Capital Mall stinks!
I look forward to it closing! Hopefully it will open up the market for some new stores (ones that won't house themselves in a building that wouldn't be fit for a homeless dormitory). "

I'm sure the folks that would lose their jobs as a result would beg to differ, but because Mac doesn't like it, it must be eliminated.
I've certainly been to better shopping spots, but it DOES serve a purpose. Is Columbia better? Sure, but its not shopping nirvana either. I'd just hate to see MORE people in the area losing their jobs. "

Report Abuse

LivinInMo wrote on Jan 9, 2009 12:43 PM:

" OK, time to get a real rise out of all of you. Somebody said they don't go there because of all of the "tweens" hanging out. There are no "tweens" there anymore because there's a policy that no child under 16 can be there alone - without parental supervision. Maybe the kids were actually spending a little money and/or parents were when they dropped them off/picked them up??? I used to take my kid there and shop while he hung out. Not anymore! Oh and Boxer and Boscoe - keep up the good fight! Jefferson City is nowhere near the town it was 20 or 30 years ago. People just don't care anymore. "

Report Abuse

Mac1974 wrote on Jan 9, 2009 10:00 AM:

" Capital Mall stinks! It literally smells like an outhouse in there. I had to go there during Christmas to return and item. I can't believe anyone in their right mind would sacrifice the 20-minute drive to Columbia to instead shop at this excuse-of-a-mall.

I look forward to it closing! Hopefully it will open up the market for some new stores (ones that won't house themselves in a building that wouldn't be fit for a homeless dormitory). "

Report Abuse

lovemyboys wrote on Jan 9, 2009 8:06 AM:

" That's interesting...I didn't know about Garfields but I never eat there, so that's probably why.

Boxer -- KB toys is liquidating stock (we went there during Christmas break to get some cheap toys for the kids. The national chain is filing bankruptcy for the 2nd time.

Taco Bell pulled out (and they did alot of business), but now there is a coffee shop called The Daily Grind there (it was only vacant a few months).

This economy is going to wreak havoc on more before it's over. "

Report Abuse

Christnlady wrote on Jan 9, 2009 7:32 AM:

" I would hate to see the mall go...so i'll do my part to get out and do some shopping, and ccontact the management. I believe if he would offer some good rental pkgs, maybe some new faces would come to town. The high rent has caused many of the new stores to go elsewhere in town, which has hurt his bottomline. Let's get creative Capital Mall and bring back customers and business. Thanks. "

Report Abuse

boscoe wrote on Jan 8, 2009 6:21 PM:

" BTW: Dillards is still set for closing very soon. Keep your ears open. The Sears move to K-mart is a very real possibility as Sears is bleeding since buying K-Mart a few years ago, and both stores sales are way down.

Ever notice how much stuff Sears doesn't carry anymore that they used to have a few years ago? If you need a new light bulb for your vacuum cleaner, it has to be ordered from the Sears Service Center down on Front Street in Kansas City. If your lawn mower needs a tune-up, guess where they send it now? "

Report Abuse

boscoe wrote on Jan 8, 2009 6:18 PM:

" Hi Amazed. Once again you make your point that Jefferson City does not need people who care about it or who want to improve it. Surely getting rid of people like me will allow Jefferson City to continue to quietly slip into obsolescense and become a ghost town or just a hideout for druggies.

Th Big Three automakers didn't embrace the concept of "continuous improvement" until the mid-80's when they finally woke up and realized that they were getting their clock cleaned by the Japanese Automakers. How much longer until you wake up and see what is going on in the rest of the world? "

Report Abuse

AMAZED wrote on Jan 8, 2009 6:05 PM:

" Once again Boscoe proves it is he and his ilk which are actually wrong with our city, meaning nothing is wrong with this town, just people like him who could improve things if they would best be gone from our midst. "

Report Abuse

online_editor wrote on Jan 8, 2009 5:41 PM:

" I just called Garfield's at Capital Mall. An employee confirmed they closed their business today. I haven't pursued any details about it or other information about other businesses at this moment. We'll work on that. Meanwhile, of course, please maintain a healthy skepticism of other rumors. -- Rick Brown, online editor, News Tribune "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 8, 2009 5:11 PM:

" The local news reported KBee is closing. "

Report Abuse

member10 wrote on Jan 8, 2009 4:32 PM:

" Cin,
If the rumors I heard today are true, then the mall will be leveled in short order. Garfield's closed its doors today and Dillard's is rumored to be closing soon. It is also rumored that Sears will be moving out by K-Mart. Who knows. Rumors are rumors. "

Report Abuse

cinnamon wrote on Jan 8, 2009 3:00 PM:

" atl1022 wrote " ...Jefferson calls itself a Metorollitian City, that is a joke.This city is so far behind, it's like still stuck a century behind any other real city.It is about the most lame place to live, shop start, a career, or entertainment.Mr. Bock and the owners of that mall need to wake up a get programed to the new century and new generation.They just need to level the mall and build something else that is useful to this city.LOL "

Hey great job complaining, but give me 3 specific suggestions for what you would do to make Jefferson City catch up. "

Report Abuse

lovemyboys wrote on Jan 8, 2009 2:05 PM:

" Just got back from the Mall, went to Penneys, Sears and ended up at Payless. It was pretty busy for a weekday. The guy at Payless said they're sales are up from even before Christmas and that the Mall is at 70% capacity. They generally don't close malls unless they are 40% or less capacity.

I believe the stores have to pay their portion (by sq ft) of utilities. Maybe if GGP would charge rent but take care of utilities, that would attract more business. I don't know.

Like I said, I don't patronize every store, but the ones I do, I do regularly. "

Report Abuse

JCpatriot wrote on Jan 8, 2009 8:13 AM:

" Cont- I meant to say change is good to make it better, I hate to say it, times are getting worse... we all need to change it before its too late. Scholars say we have only til Dec. 21, 2012 ? "

Report Abuse

JCpatriot wrote on Jan 8, 2009 8:09 AM:

" Boscoe,
To be honest the only pride I've seen around since 1996 is "Jaybird " pride & thats at the High School sporting advents I attend seasonally ? You are right since you said that I"ve noticed it too... Change is good ? "

Report Abuse

boscoe wrote on Jan 7, 2009 9:21 PM:

" At least they could replace all the burned out bulbs in the streetlights and the business's signs.

It's like there is no pride anywhere in Jeff City. People are used to living in a mess, and they don't even see the mess anymore.

This town wasn't this way 20 years ago. We used to have pride and things were better maintained. "

Report Abuse

JCpatriot wrote on Jan 7, 2009 7:54 PM:

" Boscoe,
I totally agree, Jeff city still needs to improve mall areas ,Gas stations , some parks,& other areas, But there has been some improvements in 2008. But there other areas you mentioned need to be better. Especially now with there new City Speeding ticket revenue program, this place should look like downtown Las Vegas... lol "

Report Abuse

boscoe wrote on Jan 7, 2009 3:05 PM:

" Sure, Jefferson City has made some improvements. However, compared to what you pay for taxes, goods, and services, you are getting ripped off. Other cities have much nicer facilities and infrastructure, and their taxes are nearly the same as Jeff Cities, and Jeff City has every kind of tax imaginable on utilities, cell phones, cable tv, water, electricity, etc.

You are paying top dollar but not getting quality in return!

Just like the gas stations- for the price Jefferson Citians pay for gas, their gas stations should be beautiful, clean, nicely landscaped, and have all the amenities. However, compare gas stations to what you get in Chesterfield, Lees Summit, Blue Springs, etc. and their gas is cheaper than ours. "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 7, 2009 1:04 PM:

" I just checked, their stock is now a whopping $1.89. Wowza. "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 7, 2009 12:57 PM:

" "certificate", sorry. "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 7, 2009 12:56 PM:

" I think someone needs to get in the real world. Last I checked general growths stock was so low (like 55 cents or so) that they weren't even paying dividends. "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 7, 2009 12:56 PM:

" NDN - Kay Bee toys has been in dire straights for a long time. When my son was working there, they had filed bankrupcy. They just recently filed again, closing around 365 stores. I am suprised there still is one at the mall. IThey probably don't honor them because their future is up in the air. Also, not to fuel any rumors but my sister in law was telling me that they bought a mall gift certifice (I guess at the office) and they wouldn't honor it. I think the sad reality is that no business is immune to bad times right now. That couples with the ridiculous rent only makes it tough on business' out there. "

Report Abuse

ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Jan 7, 2009 12:18 PM:

" Sportsmom that isnt the only issue with the GGP giftcards...alot of the different store within the mall wont allow them. Wonder why? Dollar Tree is one of those store as was the KBToys..but I do agree there have been some improvements in JC and those are what we need to focus on. "

Report Abuse

lovemyboys wrote on Jan 7, 2009 6:09 AM:

" I've lived in and around this City all my life and it has grown and improved in many ways.

Boxer -- McKay Park always has alot of trash. I don't understand why people can't pick up trash...that's just laziness. I can't stand it so I pick it up myself alot of times too.

I e-mailed the Parks & Rec person and they are in the process of getting bids for new playgrounds at Memorial Park and McKay because they can't get parts to repair them anymore. Apparently, that is a process to go through.

No, JC is not a big City and that's just fine w/me. "

Report Abuse

lovemyboys wrote on Jan 7, 2009 6:05 AM:

" Boscoe--when was the last time you were at the Mall? I was there w/my kids this weekend...the bathrooms have been redone and look nice (for public restrooms)..cleaning people are everywhere and the floors are always shiny.

The City is putting in sidewalks along MO Blvd, SW Blvd and slowly fixing up the bad areas of town. By the way, you can get on the City's website and report pot holes or missing/broken street signs. I did and the City was fixing it within a couple days.

The Mall has added a playground to the Center Court area (which used to be dead space) and Jeff City has several cultural events throughout the year. "

Report Abuse

Sportsmom wrote on Jan 6, 2009 11:11 PM:

" Another complaint wth GGP is the gift card policy. I tried to buy gift cards for Christmas gifts this year and was told they no longer sell them in the office, you can only buy them online. Guess what the handling fee is for a $25 GC? $5.95!!! That's ridiculous. I bought gift cards from stores instead, and paid no handling or shipping (even though they were ordered online). "

Report Abuse

bob23 wrote on Jan 6, 2009 10:16 PM:

" This sad to see another store go by the wayside in the mall. I have bought plenty from this store and always have had great service and good products at fair prices. The employees are friendly and very helpful. This is just a matter of the high rent and the sign of the economic times. I hate to see this store go. I feel for the employees. "

Report Abuse

rayder wrote on Jan 6, 2009 4:57 PM:

" JCMO Is behind in the times. I moved away from here a few years ago to a large city. The city I moved to had several malls and lots of different places to shop. It had cultural events and a university with all different types of sportiing events. But guess what the schools were terrible, and the crime rate was very high. I moved back here to get away from all of that. I want to go into stores where people regonize me and appreciate my business. I want to be able to trust my children's teachers and the principal. The pros outweigh the cons in JCMO as far as I am concerned. "

Report Abuse

hmarie775 wrote on Jan 6, 2009 4:19 PM:

" Yes, our town could use a little fixing up, but really it's NOT BAD at all! I think it's a wonderful place to raise my children, it's so very family oriented and family friendly. I like that everything is only 10 minutes from each other, not like ina big city where you spend 30 minutes just trying to get across town. Go visit some of the surrounding small towns and see how much they are struggling with infracstructure issues like sidewalks and potholes. We really don' t have it that bad people. Go hit some potholes in St. Louis roads which are more like craters in the ground. I love it here. The only thing thatIlamentisthelackofculturaldiversity. "

Report Abuse

boscoe wrote on Jan 6, 2009 1:34 PM:

" The mall was nice when it was first built, but it hasn't been kept up or maintained. Look at the trees and flower beds- they are hideous. The public restrooms are torn up and filthy. They don't do as many public events there like they used to to draw people. The rent must be way too high, but the building and grounds have paid for themselves many times over. Is GGC just raping JC mall and taking the profit to spend on Columbia Mall? What is going on here? Clean it up, modernize it, lower the rent, involve the public in special activities for families. Get some good restaurants and stores. "

Report Abuse

boscoe wrote on Jan 6, 2009 1:31 PM:

" Jefferson City is not terrible. It is just that those of us who have lived here for a long time see that it has really turned for the worst over the last 15-20 years. It used to be a very clean, safe, low-crime city that was great to raise your children in, where everyone treated everyone else with respect and we had very good schools and kids didn't cause trouble or tear things up or get into drugs or crime. Why have things changed so much for the worse over the past 15-20 years? Why are taxes being increased all the time and yet things are falling apart? It can easily be so much better with a little work. "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 6, 2009 1:29 PM:

" This is so off topic....my husband loves to fish for trout at McKay. He came home yesterday disgusted. Said there is trash everywhere. So now he is fishing again and took a bag to pick stuff up. And we don't even live there. What the heck is the deal???? Is Parks and Rec having a problem or what??? "

Report Abuse

boscoe wrote on Jan 6, 2009 1:28 PM:

" All it takes is a little concern and caring. It takes people thinking about others instead of just themselves. It takes a little pride and self-esteem. It takes a little letting go and let others help run things and offer their ideas even if they are different.

We already are paying the money. Prices are high as anywhere else or higher. We have plenty of taxes of everything, sales taxes, exsize taxes, taxes on utilities, cell phones, cable tv, electric, telephone, gas, taxes everywhere. Money is not the problem. Someone along the way is taking all the money (greed) or else spending in on the elite few or not managing it right. "

Report Abuse

boscoe wrote on Jan 6, 2009 1:25 PM:

" The streets are full of potholes, there are no sidewalks or else they are cracked and falling apart. Crime is out of control, streetlights are burned out, signs are burned out, weeds grow everywhere, street people walk up and down the blvd, the parks have weeds and mud and goose poop and the picknic tables are falling apart, the schools have lots of dropouts and crimes, wrecks keep happening over and over at the same places and nothing is done about it, we all know where the crack houses are and the crime-infested areas are but nothing is ever done, houses are falling apart, parking is a problem, people don't care, no one can do anything, people say to move if you don't likeit. "

Report Abuse

boscoe wrote on Jan 6, 2009 1:22 PM:

" Another example- the gas in Jefferson City is always higher than everywhere else. Since they are making more money on gas, you'd think Jefferson City would have the nicest and cleanest gas stations in Missouri. Reality is the gas stations here are filthy. The pumps never have paper towels or free air or water, and the windshield sqeegies are always empty or maybe have a little muddy water in them with no squeegie or else it is broke. Why is that?

We are paying for very good services and good levels of quality, but whereever you go in Jefferson City the restaurants are dirty, the service is terrible, no one cares about the customer. "

Report Abuse

boscoe wrote on Jan 6, 2009 1:19 PM:

" LMB- that is the point about jefferson city. I could easily be so much better than it is with just a little work. No, it isn't horrible, but it could easily be a whole lot better. Don't use money as an excuse. Things in Jeff city are just as expensive or more expensive than other cities, but the problem is that someone is taking all the money instead of reinvesting it where it does some good.

For example, the mall charges outrageous rents, but where does the rent money go? it certainly doesn't go to remodeling the mall or planting nice shrubery or gardens around it. It doesn't for nice clean public restrooms "

Report Abuse

sprint10h wrote on Jan 6, 2009 12:38 PM:

" I hate going to the mall because of all the tweens that run you over and you can't get in without a big dose of lung cancer. But, I belong to Wilson's and my favorite store besides Petco (which is at my now favorite shopping location) is Bath and Body. Now, if they would relocate out by Lowe's, I would not miss the mall at all. The smaller stores are just to pricey for me. "

Report Abuse

countercouple wrote on Jan 6, 2009 12:00 PM:

" When the mall closes finally,..it wont be any big loss. That place has been dying for years I say, let the place die. If you can only find it in the JC mall,...you dont need it. "

Report Abuse

jcpast wrote on Jan 6, 2009 11:31 AM:

" Please remember that GGP sets the lease rates...not Mr. Bock. He's the property manager...not the CEO of GGP, and has no power to change the lease agreements. All of those are handled through the corporate headquarters. Except the kiosks...but those are a different breed in its self. If you would kindly remember these same rumors were flying about Columbia Mall in 2001-2003. The new Macy's store was going to close the mall. Granted lots of improvements were made to Columbia Mall...but they weren't over night. It was over several years. If you look at Capital Mall they have made improvements as well. If you want to see more at Capital Mall contact GGP in Chicago. "

Report Abuse

ap101 wrote on Jan 6, 2009 10:49 AM:

" This is the Capital City there should be some better shopping that is for sure. I agree with whoever said the rent thing. The mall manager needs to lower the rent of the stores so they actually have a chance. This mall has been around since the 80's you can't tell me with central bank hy vee, wendy's pizza hut all that ggp owns that that building and the land isn't paid for probably 10 times over by now. "

Report Abuse

lovemyboys wrote on Jan 6, 2009 9:52 AM:

" I always wished I could be the Mall manager just for a week...oh the changes I would make! LOL!

But, I'm not, so that's that. "

Report Abuse

lovemyboys wrote on Jan 6, 2009 9:50 AM:

" Boxer -- I am sure you are right...JC's mall is antiquated esp if you came from a larger town and I understand that.

Here's what I think: Back in the 80's when they built the mall, it was a big deal...remember that was before internet, e-mail, etc. Now people can shop online or go to the stores. "
I rarely shop downtown JC but I know alot of people that do. It's not because I don't like it, it's just not convenient for me. For me, the Mall is convenient. So is Gerbes. It's all in what your priorities are...for me, it's convenience and price...I have 3 kids, so "going shopping" is an adventure LOL! "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 6, 2009 9:37 AM:

" I take that back, it was the late 60's. Hey, I like low key living. I would live in the woods and be happy. And I wouldn't have wanted to raise my son in the city. However, I sure miss the school systems. Getting off track here. Back to the mall, I just don't go there anymore. Didn't at Christmas, did on line. Didn't miss it. I would miss Dillards though. "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 6, 2009 9:31 AM:

" If you are happy, I am happy. All I think that was being said below is that its a Capitol City and its way behind in the times. Heck, we had a huge, huge covered mall blocks from where I grew up that made this thing look ill. And that was in the 70's. Its since been torn down. I am just telling you from an outsiders view, JC is antiquated. The post below says it all. I don't live there, my family does, so honestly, I don't care. I love my UPS man. "

Report Abuse

lovemyboys wrote on Jan 6, 2009 9:22 AM:

" Boxer -- just one question....so what if people have never lived anywhere else? If they like it, they like it. Who is it for us to judge? I've always lived in and around Jeff City and so has my husband...we like it. We travel to other places and enjoy our trips, but we like it here. If we wanted to move, we would. There are people that live in the small communities around her all their lives and they are perfectly content. I think that's great!

I don't need to be entertained either...I'm past childhood and teen years. I have 3 boys and that in itself is pure entertainment! LOL! "

Report Abuse

lovemyboys wrote on Jan 6, 2009 9:19 AM:

" I know people that love Columbia and I wouldn't live there. Like I said, everyone is different and it's okay if they don't like it here, I respect that. It just ticks me off that everyone on this forum complains about how much Jeff City stinks...40,000+ people live here so they must like it.

I lived in Linn, MO while I went to college and it's worse than Taos. Taos is growing at a phenomenal rate (you should see the big homes out there). Just because I didn't like it there doesn't mean I put it down...I still have ties to Taos and to Linn. "

Report Abuse

lovemyboys wrote on Jan 6, 2009 9:15 AM:

" Boxergal -- I wish I could make tons of changes to the City, but that is beyond my power and certainly beyond my finances. I wish I had the $$ to start a business. I know a lady who looked into getting a Bonkers play center here (and she has the money), but she said the insurance is so ridiculous on those places that she nixed the idea. I hate that, but I can't control insurance costs anymore than I can control gas prices. It is what it is...

Funny you should mention Taos...that is where I grew up. I go back there now and I miss the town some, but not enough to want to live there..LOL! "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 6, 2009 9:14 AM:

" Great place to raise a kid, I will admit. "

Report Abuse

lovemyboys wrote on Jan 6, 2009 9:12 AM:

" I grew up in a small town and hated it because everyone knew everyone's business. When we moved to Jeff City, it was so much better because it wasn't a Big City, but big enough everyone didn't know you, but you can still know alot of people.

Now that I'm a parent, I want my kids raised here. We're 2 hours from St. Louis, 2-3 hours from KC, and 30 minutes from Columbia. We can visit those places easily w/o having to live there. I want to raise my kids in a place that is relatively safe and still has some sense of morals.

Again, that's my preference...everyone is different. "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 6, 2009 9:11 AM:

" Guess its better than Taos. "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 6, 2009 9:11 AM:

" Whos complaining? They are expressing how they feel. I don't need entertainment at my age. Actually, I don't even need a mall. And thats whats sad. On line shopping is the way to go. I like low key places to live. I would love to know why people get so defensive when it comes to JC. This is a Capitol City, it needs to act like one. I was appalled at how behind the times it was in the 70's. And nothing has changed. My kid likes living there also but that sure doesn't mean there isn't room for improvement. Funny, its the people that have never lived elsewhere that are so happy. "

Report Abuse

lovemyboys wrote on Jan 6, 2009 8:51 AM:

" I agree that Jeff City is behind times (as is Holts Summit and all the surrounding communities) and needs some fresh new entertainment, stores, etc. There are tons of Councils in this City that you all can volunteer on...but, ..it's much easier just to complain and run the City down, isn't it?

I told you all in earlier posts that the Mall is busier than you think...ask someone who works out there instead of relying on the media to give you the info.

I don't shop at every store, but I do patronize several stores and probably go there at least once a week during my lunch and I take my kids there on weekends to play when it's cold outside. "

Report Abuse

lovemyboys wrote on Jan 6, 2009 8:42 AM:

" Jeff City is not for everybody...some people like big cities, some like small towns...I happen to like it here...You couldn't pay me to live in a big city or Columbia (Missouri's armpit), but that's my preference. Do you know how much $$ it would take to keep everything updated to your liking? Young people want hip stuff all the time and the newest latest thing...noone can keep up with that unless they have endless amounts of money. The mall was built in the 1980's...there are buildings uptown (or downtown JC) that are older than dirt and they are trying to revitalize them for historical reasons. Just because something is old doesn't mean it's bad. "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 6, 2009 8:21 AM:

" atl - got a chuckle out of your post. Glad you said it and I didn't cause now they will be telling you to move. Boy, do I agree with you 100 percent. Sit in the mall parking lot sometime and just look at the building. Makes me think of my days in a disco. "

Report Abuse

allaroundsooner wrote on Jan 6, 2009 4:11 AM:

" Don't blame this on your local malls failure. All malls at this time are having problems keeping stores. Stores are moving back to shopping centers that can afford to keep their doors open. As far as REX this was in the plan. They can't keep up with the times. Going into a REX Store was going back into the future. Look at the compuer monitors, the fixtures, and etc. It's like Sanford & Son was their supplier for fixtures. The only sad thing about losing REX is their employess are losing a job. "

Report Abuse

atl1022 wrote on Jan 6, 2009 12:31 AM:

" This mall is a huge joke. What Mr. Bcok needs to do is either lower the rent so the business that do come they can have a chance to stay around and maybe make the rent a month and maybe profit. Jefferson calls itself a Metorollitian City, that is a joke.This city is so far behind, it's like still stuck a century behind any other real city.It is about the most lame place to live, shop start, a career, or entertainment.Mr. Bock and the owners of that mall need to wake up a get programed to the new century and new generation.They just need to level the mall and build something else that is useful to this city.LOL "

Report Abuse

boscoe wrote on Jan 5, 2009 9:51 PM:

" The future will be a large workout place, with a few community rooms and a whole bunch of antique booths throughout the mall. It will be the Antique Mall of Central Missouri.

Dillards will be leaving soon, but technically, if they own their own store they won't be leaving the mall? "

Report Abuse

chakkers wrote on Jan 5, 2009 8:53 PM:

" The mall might be a little more welcoming to customers by removing the gauntlet of cigarette smoke that one has to endure when entering the "Subway Entrance". I realize that a lot of mall employees might smoke but do they have to stand by the most used entrance to the mall? "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 5, 2009 5:06 PM:

" I went in one time and went out again. I think outdoor malls are the big thing now. I know a friend of mine in Denver was telling me there is one there thats outstanding. Too bad we are so behind times here. Haven't been to Galleria in years, I hate to hear its gone downhill. "

Report Abuse

caremmel wrote on Jan 5, 2009 4:56 PM:

" I don't know anyone who shopped at Rex, do you??? I don't think I even went in the place...Personally I don't know of that many great Malls anymore, even the Galleria is kinda bad now. I went to a really cool outdoor mall in Cali once, all the stores had seperate entrances and there were fountains all over the place. "

Report Abuse

boxergal wrote on Jan 5, 2009 4:45 PM:

" Maybe this could be one big workout place. I can remember years ago when one of those shops moved (I believe Christopher Bank) because the thumping from the music at Wilson's was overbearing. That and I suppose to make more room. As far as Rex, I would never shop there in a million years. No great loss. "

Report Abuse


To add your comments you must be registered and logged in

*Member ID:
*Password:
 

Do not use usernames or passwords from your financial accounts!

Note: Fields marked with an asterisk (*) are required!

*Create a Member ID:
*Choose a password:
*Re-enter password:
*E-mail Address:
*Year of Birth:
 

(children under 13 cannot register)

*First Name:
*Last Name:
Company:
*Home Phone:
Business Phone:
*Address:
*City:
*State:
*Zip Code:
 

Return to: News Local « | Home « | Top of Page ^


 -

Sports Poll
Online Poll

Will the resignation of Sarah Palin as Alaska's governor negatively impact her viability as a potential Republican nominee for President in 2012? (Read story here)
Yes, definitely
No, definitely not
Perhaps, but not necessarily
Don't know yet
View Results

Related Stories


Local Headlines


Top Commented Stories (more)


Top Commented Stories (more)


Sports Headlines


 All Contents Copyright © 2009 News Tribune Co. All rights reserved.
 AP stories Copyright © 2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved.
 This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Click for copyright details.
 Comments or questions? Contact us.
  Employees
 


rss Available Feeds
rss iconRSS Political News
rss iconRSS Press Releases
rss iconRSS Local News
rss iconRSS State News
rss iconRSS Business
rss iconRSS Sports
rss iconRSS Entertainment
About RSS Feeds

 

Find out about our RSS feeds and what they are.
Copyright © 2009. All rights reserved.
Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited.