Everett Mall has enlarged space, added more shops

Just in time for the holidays, the new and improved Everett Mall has opened to

shoppers.

The mall has changed significantly during the past year. Theres been a complete redevelopment of the property, including the creation of Everett Mall Village. Its located west of the main complex in the area that once housed a cinema and an old strip mall. New junior anchor stores, Old Navy and Borders have been added, among others.

This is great news to shoppers who have been watching as the new redevelopment suddenly took off and was completed within a year of the groundbreaking. Along with Old Navy and Borders, new stores include Best Buy, Bed Bath and Beyond, Sleep Country USA, Quiznos and Piercing Pagoda.

The good news doesnt stop there. PetsMart opens in January and construction is under way for a new 16-screen Regal Cineplex opening in May. Another as yet unnamed retailer is currently negotiating to go in next to PetsMart.

These much-needed renovations are the work of the Steadfast Co., which purchased the mall in June 2004. It was the first time in 15 years that the mall had been expanded, despite promises from previous owners.

Steadfast not only acted promptly on renovations after their purchase, but also brought in more retailers that are sure to please local shoppers.

According to Everett Mall marketing director Kristi Keene, the mall now has about 110 regular retailers and plans to bring in additional specialty retailers that are open just during the holidays.

These seasonal shops tend to carry unique and eclectic gifts. An international theme is apparent down one wing. There are also many old favorites, such as Hickory Farms, Alaska Smokehouse, and Sheepskins.

The additional businesses expand Everett Malls seasonal directory to almost 135 shopping options.

Were like a new mall, Keene said. Its really exciting and we want to invite everyone to come and see whats new here. Weve totally re-routed West Mall Drive around the new Village.

Concentrating on the new renovations doesnt mean that the mall has forgotten to plan any of their holiday promotions. Santa photos began on Nov. 19 and continue through Dec. 24. A free gift ornament from the Hallmark store comes with the purchase of a photo Best Value package. Keene said that if there is more than one child in the Santa photo, each child will get a free ornament.

Pet photos with Santa are scheduled for Dec. 11. You can call the mall for more details.

Coming soon is the Santa Social. This free event is noon to 3 p.m. on Dec. 4. There will be crafts and games for all ages in Center Court.

The mall is also continuing its Giving Program.

Weve been doing the Tree of Giving in coordination with the Snohomish County Boy Scouts and Fluke Corp, Keene said. We have several tagged trees that are set up at the mall. On these tags are the names of residents in convalescent and nursing homes. Shoppers are encouraged to take a gift suggestion tag from the tree. They can purchase the selected item and place it under the Tree of Giving outside of Mervyns.

Later in the month, the Boy Scouts transport these gifts to nearly 20 retirement centers in the area. The mall usually receives at least 2,000 gifts around the Giving Tree, each destined to bring joy to a nursing home resident.

Its wonderful, Keene said. Its quite a sight, especially closer to Christmas when the fences around the tree are piled high with gifts. Its just a great feeling and a great program.

Everett Mall is also offering free gift wrapping for shoppers on the weekends and also for the last full week before Christmas. Gift wrapping stations are staffed by the Snohomish County Explorers.

Another seasonal program is the Holiday Toy Chest, which benefits Christmas House. People can bring new unwrapped toys for the Toy Chest to the display in center court.

Extended holiday hours have begun, and hours will increase the closer it gets to Christmas. For more information on the malls holiday hours, see www.everettmall.org or call (425) 355-1771.