NEWS FROM APSP

"Stars of North Star" Photo Retrospective Details Half Century Highlights [August 2010]
Time Capsule Reveal September 23, 2010

In the fall of September 1963, in a relatively underdeveloped neighborhood on the north side of San Antonio, one of the world's first enclosed shopping malls was born. A pioneer in the industry, North Star, then situated along Loop 13 (which later evolved into Interstate 410) and San Pedro, took hold as a bright spot on the city's horizon. Today, it is hailed as one of the most successful retail centers in the country and its status has evolved from urban mall to premiere super regional center serving South Texas and Mexico clientele.

San Antonio residents and area visitors will be able to take a nostalgic look at North Star's history beginning September 13, as the "Stars of North Star" display, in the lower level of the Saks Fifth Avenue wing, recounts through testimony and photos the attributes that have made the property so beloved. The historic pictorial will visualize the dramatic progression of the property which has quadrupled in size since its opening. The interior once lined with tropical flowers and plants, also housed exotic birds on Saltillo tiled walkways under a wooden trellised ceiling.

The window storefronts of pioneering anchors Wolff and Marx, H-E-B Grocery, Walgreens', Guarantee Shoes, Mr. Dunderbach's Deli, La Fuente Restaurant, Zales and Luby's were plain and expansive. As the mall concept matures photos recall the introduction of Frost Brother's and Joske's, both upscale, multi-level department stores; their success garnered national attention which eventually lured Dillard's, Marshall Field's, Foley's, Saks Fifth Avenue and Macy's to the market. The property introduced the first Twin Cinemas and picnic court concept and even housed an underground arcade commonly referenced as the Music Court also home to Oshman's Sporting Goods store and Expensive Toys for Big Boys.

Perhaps the most remarkable visuals are those of the mall's exterior in the early 1960's, a massive structure in a relatively unpopulated area surrounded by cactus, tumbleweeds and gravel. San Pedro was only two lanes and Loop 13 was a rural road. The world famous Cowboy Boots wouldn't kick up dust on the horizon for another 20 years.

At an early morning ceremony on September 23, the mall will feature the time capsule that was buried on the center's 25th anniversary revealing more cultural and societal progress.

As part of North Star's Golden Anniversary celebration, North Star will have a myriad of special offers, shopping incentives and signature events; for details visit www.northstarmall.com. "This is our opportunity to thank the community for its continued support and is just a small expression of our gratitude . North Star will continue to commemorate its Anniversary through the Holiday season," says Walter Plonski, general manager of North Star.

For more than 20 years North Star was under the management direction of John Badagliacco, a savvy veteran of the industry now managing The Shops at La Cantera. Badagliacco is credited with transforming the property from a community mall to an international mega-center.

"In its early years North Star was the town square, it was the place the community gathered," says Badagliacco. "There was nothing else like it at the time. Because North Star was pioneering a retail revolution, it put San Antonio on the map and paved the way for future growth. The success of local merchants garnered the attention of national retailers. And as the property's performance continued to be among the top ten percent in the nation, international interest soon followed."

Badagliacco adds that North Star's efficient use of space and its continual evolution seeking market firsts and exclusive retailers, responding to consumer interest, cultural and environmental change will keep it viable for years to come.

About North Star
North Star is owned and managed by General Growth Properties (GGP), Inc. GGP currently has ownership interest in, or management responsibility for more than 200 regional shopping malls in 43 states, as well as ownership in planned community developments and commercial office buildings. The company's portfolio totals approximately 200 million square feet of retail space and includes over 24,000 retail stores nationwide. The company is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol GGP. For more information, please visit the company web site at ggp.com.