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Wal-Mart plans downsize; Olive Garden could come to city

By Laura Ory
Herald/Review
Published/Last Modified on Wednesday, Dec 31, 2008 - 05:11:30 am MST

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SIERRA VISTA — Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club will be shrunk a bit, though plans are still moving forward for the retailer and other businesses planning to build at Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway and the Highway 90 Bypass.

In October, Wal-Mart announced projections for slowed growth in the two years. Store square footage is also being resized.

In 2010, as few as 125 Wal-Mart Supercenters may open, based on Wal-Mart’s projections, down from 191 new stores in 2008. About 15 to 20 are expected to open in 2010, down from 25 in 2008.

Plans for the Wal-Mart Supercenter and Sam’s Club have been resubmitted since the original building plans were accepted by the Sierra Vista City Council in October.

The Sam’s Club will likely be closer to a 100,000 square foot building, rather than the original 134,608 square foot design.

The Wal-Mart Supercenter will likely be reduced by about 20,000 square feet from the original plan to about 175,000 square feet.

Wal-Mart had planned to begin construction in early 2009, but construction is expected to be delayed until later in the year for a 2010 opening, said Delia Garcia, a Wal-Mart spokeswoman.

The new plans are being reviewed by the city.

The revision “allows them to have the same projected revenue with much less space,” said Mary Jacobs, the assistant city manager.

“We’re thrilled they are still moving forward,” she said.

Plans to develop 30,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space at the edge of the Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club parking lot are also moving forward, said Frank Moro of First West Properties.

So far, Olive Garden has confirmed its intention to move in, and other negotiations are in progress, Moro said.

The Charleston Crossing center is being developed by First West Property of Sierra Vista and Sandor Development of Scottsdale and will include about a dozen other retail spaces, he said.

Plans for Charleston Crossing are also under review by the city.

Economy could impact Wal-Mart’s growth

Wal-Mart’s actual and projected square footage growth in millions for years 2008 to 2010.

    2008    2009    2010

U.S. Wal-Mart    26    23    14

U.S. Sam’s Clubs    2    2    1-2

International    18    17-18    19-20

Total    46    42-43    34-36

— Source: Wal-Mart

Herald/Review reporter Laura Ory can be reached at 515-4683 or by e-mail at laura.ory@svherald.com.

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Former SVer wrote on Jan 14, 2009 10:10 PM:

" Wow. Small town politics at their best. People really, Do you need to go back and forth over what is 'real' italian, mexican, or even good food? Whatever happened to dinning at home? A home cooked meal? This petty banter cracks me up. No jumbo Wally-World with their rotten produce, preservative packed foods or hormone laced milk is going to save Sierra Vista. This town is always taking ten steps back. "

To Dan wrote on Jan 14, 2009 11:45 AM:

" Why not, they are all standing in the field waiting for WALMART to send them more Chinese Crap. "

Well.... wrote on Jan 14, 2009 8:51 AM:

" Oh well thanks for clearing that up for us "Someone who knows" now we can all sleep soundly tonight. "

someone who knows wrote on Jan 14, 2009 2:36 AM:

" Oh, and just so you know, the Olive Garden and Red Lobster are both owned by Darden Resaurants. Olive Garden happens to be a little more economically priced and affordable in a small town like this. They are probably going to see how that does before sending in Red Lobster. "

someone who knows wrote on Jan 14, 2009 2:31 AM:

" I worked for Olive Garden for years. They send their top kitchen staff from each location to Italy where they are trained by real Italian chefs that create dishes for the Olive Garden. The most popular ones stay on the menu, so if you don't like what they offer, you are not the majority! "

Dan wrote on Jan 13, 2009 11:25 PM:

" Not on a high horse, just disagreed with the fellow that said seattle had no good food, I am no food critic either. It doesn't take a food critic to know bad quality. I too grew up in SV, and i can tell you the last thing we need is another restaurant chain moving in. SV has bigger issues, it's supposed to be a growing city, but the only things we are getting more of is: Housing, and restaurants...... how about dealing with some other issues? like how crowded Buena has been getting? "

To Dan wrote on Jan 13, 2009 6:53 PM:

" Get off your high horse. Just because you can name eating places in other cities that we don't recognize, doesn't make you a food critic. Just keep doing what you do best, walking around with your nose in the air. If it rained you may drown. "

RWE wrote on Jan 13, 2009 1:57 PM:

" what is truly sad is the fact that people are debating restaraunts, eat at home people. If the restaraunts start losing business they will either close or strive to improve and then we can get quality establishments. "

I agree wrote on Jan 13, 2009 11:16 AM:

" I agree with you Dan it is SO very sad! "

Team520 wrote on Jan 13, 2009 8:27 AM:

" To Dan.......you hit the nail on the head in my opinion. Not sure if you grew up here but I did and I can tell you first hand there is nothing to do to keep you busy in a good way. It's no wonder we have such a high rate of pregnancy and drug usage etc. We really don't need anywhere else to eat in this community. "

Dan wrote on Jan 13, 2009 1:10 AM:

" I mean..... WHat is SV going to do with another restaurant that is pretty much the same as Chilli's/Outback/Applebee/s? just with a little more pasta? besides, SV is small, and all we have there is fast food joints, and a few non-chains, I think SV needs more things to do, how a bout some decent paintabll ranges? better miniature golf? I mean..... SOMETHING! children's museum? but NOOOOO SV doesn't need stuff to do, SV wants RED LOBSTER! and OLIVE GARDEN..... Maybe throw in a Krispy Kreme in there, would that make you all happy? it's so sad! "

Dan wrote on Jan 13, 2009 1:02 AM:

" John..... you must be out of your mind! or you need to go out more, Ivar's is fast food! so.... goes to show what kind of taste you have. Maybe you're one of those people who have no culture and are too stuck in your small town mindframe, and are too afraid to try anything different. Ever try Bonefish grille? Bucca di Beppo? Mamma Melina? barking frog??? No? you prob don't know where this places even are! Huski Deli? Benihana!?!?!?! these places are all waaayyyy better than anything from SV. "

Ok wrote on Jan 12, 2009 10:19 PM:

" Some people like myself included when grocery shopping shop payday to payday so i shop once every two weeks i can not afford to wait until something "might" come on sale. Besides in the long run and ive shopped both ways it is cheaper to shop for two weeks than to go every other nght or week. "

Agree with duh wrote on Jan 12, 2009 6:20 PM:

" If you read the flyers that are in the Herald, or in the Power Pac, buy and load up on your needs, when they are on sale, there isn't a grocery store in this area cheaper than Frys. "

Former Wal-Mart Mgr. wrote on Jan 12, 2009 1:19 PM:

" Most of Wal-Mart's old building were rented, with triple net rent. The developers are the one responsible to fill the empty space not Wal-Mart. "

Uh duh wrote on Jan 12, 2009 1:09 PM:

" Sure Food CIty has cheap meat BUT the other stuff is still expensive. So than i have to go to Frys its a waste of time and gas not to mention an annoyance! Dont bother with Safeway they are so overpriced im surprised theyre still in business! "

Harry Glabotnik wrote on Jan 12, 2009 12:01 PM:

" Right on RWE-TOY-WHERE ARE YA???? "

JOHN wrote on Jan 11, 2009 11:16 PM:

" I SEE SOME COMMENTS CONCERNING SEATTLE. WE USED TO LIVE IN SIERRA VISTA AND NOW WE LIVE IN SEATTLE BECAUSE OF OUR GRANDKIDS. WE WOULD TRADE EVERY RESTAURANT IN SEATTLE FOR ALL OF THE RESTAURANTS IN SIETTA VISTA...WE MISS THE GOOD PLACES IN SIERRA VISTA...WE MIGHT KEEP IVARS BUT NOTHING ELSE.. "

duh wrote on Jan 11, 2009 6:07 PM:

" If you do not like the prices at Fry's and Safeway, then why don't you go to Food City? They are cheaper than the other two and the food is good quality. I shop all three plus Big Lots and Walmart and Food City can rarely be beaten. "

interested wrote on Jan 11, 2009 3:44 PM:

" a few points- Walmart will match advertised specials from Food city, safeway and frys as long as you bring the ad with you, so while I know wal mart has some iffy business practices (chinese made products, 'full time' employee issues) I also know that during hard economic times I'm still feeding a family of 5 on the same basic salary I had last year.

As for good Italian food, go to Bisbee, Rosa's Little Italy is probably as close as your going to get, reservations required. Thats a good meal for a fair price! "

Ehh wrote on Jan 10, 2009 10:26 PM:

" I agree with waste of time who cares about the restaurants here many of us cant afford them anyways and with the way Frys is raising food prices we cant really afford that much either so us little people that can not afford the luxury of dining out will probably starve either way! "

waste of time wrote on Jan 10, 2009 11:31 AM:

" stop worrying about all the cruddy restaurants in SV. Soon there will be a depression and the only restaurant in town will be the Salvation Army. "

Chuck Swinford wrote on Jan 10, 2009 9:08 AM:

" KK, yes WalMart has changed policy in the last few years. In many areas, a new Walmart or replacemnt Walmart causes large, well organized protests by the NIMBY crowd. One of the sticks they have traditionally used to beat on WalMart has been the abandoned buildings. WalMart has finally responded to this by making proactive plans to eliminate abandoned buildings. It's not that they care about anything but getting permits for a new build, but if it has the positive outcome of eliminating abandoned eyesores I'l ltake it regardless of motive "

Nina wrote on Jan 9, 2009 9:00 AM:

" That does it, not another dime will I spend in that dumpy wal mart in Sierra Vista. All the money they have sucked out of town and now the fudge on making a real investment here. Booo! "

Team520 wrote on Jan 9, 2009 8:13 AM:

" I agree Dan. The places to eat here for the most part are terrible and it really doesn't have much to do with ingredients as it does with the owners not caring for anything except the dollars rolling in. With the economy bad they are still raking in the dough so why should they care? I beleive it's just the lesser of two evils when making a decision to go out an eat and not choosing from the top ones. "

Dan wrote on Jan 8, 2009 11:35 PM:

" I was not comparing seattle to Sierra VIsta big guy..... I was just saying they do not need to make nasty food here and then try to come up with the lamest excuse for why it is made that way, and that's the whole "it's a westernized version" just saying, a lot of my friends here have italian wives, they make italian food and it is so simple to make with ingredients they have back at home, that's all! "

To Dan... wrote on Jan 8, 2009 10:23 AM:

" You were in Seattle and found an “authentic Italian” restaurant. Are you seriously comparing Seattle to Sierra Vista? Sometimes when you live in an area where choices are limited you suck it up and make the best out of the situation. I don’t call Taco Bell Mexican nor do I call Delios an Italian Restaurant. As one poster already pointed out, you obviously have a smug and elitist view of things and that kind of viewpoint will lead you to a lot of disappointment in Sierra Vista. What makes your tastes the gospel on food? "

Just hearsay.... wrote on Jan 8, 2009 10:18 AM:

" People keep mentioning Red Lobster and how they've been hearing about it coming for years. Now, I heard this a few years back and I'm not saying this is 100% true. But I heard Red Lobster backed out due to pretty strict requirements laid out by Red Lobster. This included the population of Sierra Vista. Again, it's hearsay and I'll admit that. It's just what I heard. No need to kill the messenger "

Yuk wrote on Jan 8, 2009 8:36 AM:

" This is a business article, and most of the idiotic comments are concerning taste buds. "

Dan wrote on Jan 8, 2009 12:47 AM:

" Well... then why even call it "italian" food, would you call taco bell a mexican food restaurant? About a year ago I was in Seattle, I forget the name of this one Italian restaurant I went to down there, well the thing is, this place had authentic italian food, and it was packed all the time. Good food is good food, You can put lipstick on a pig and it will still be a pig, I just have a proble with why they even call this places "Italian" restaurants. You people need standards. "

More Vegies Please wrote on Jan 7, 2009 8:52 PM:

" We could definitely use a "Squat and Gobble" buffet style restaurant like Sweet Tomates here in SV.... "

competition wrote on Jan 7, 2009 1:56 PM:

" I will be glad when Safeway and Fry's have to actually compete with WalMart for the food items. They are ridiculous with their "member cards". They are over-priced and you will really see them drop their prices after the new WM opens. Oh well, I will let everyone get back to debating what is good food. "

resident wrote on Jan 7, 2009 12:22 PM:

" Like everyone else, been here 24yrs hearing OG and RL are coming to town. Did you know OG has a local phone #? I'll believe it when the ribbon is cut as well. To "Curious", my understanding is the old W-Mart will be a storage warehouse for the new one. As for Macaroni Grill, it's very good food but it's the same as OG as far as where the food itmes come from. Both are good restaurants to have. I'm not holding my breathe for anything to happen. I'll go to Tucson. And they want us to shop local! "

KK wrote on Jan 7, 2009 11:15 AM:

" To Chuck: Wal-Mart 'they never leave abandoned buildings?' A few years ago, they were notorious for leaving empty big boxes in small towns all over the USA -- places where it's hard to find a buyer or renter. Have they improved on that? "

To Dan the elitist wrote on Jan 7, 2009 10:06 AM:

" Thanks for providing the smug, arrogant, and elitist point of view. By your standards I am not sure any eatery in SV would qualify as a “restaurant”. Wouldn’t it be great if we could all travel the world and eat meals in their country of origin? Delios, like many other restaurants in the U.S. “westernize” their dishes to meet the tastes of their patrons. If I was a restaurant owner and had the choice of making everything “authentic” and having a moderate amount of patrons or making things different and increasing my customer base, I would chose the latter. "

To Down in SV... wrote on Jan 7, 2009 8:09 AM:

" It would be great to have some upscale stores come to SV, but a majority of consumers in SV are not in an income bracket for stores like that. Can you honestly see a young soldier shopping with their family and buying an 8 dollar box of cereal from TJ? I actually am glad stores like Trader Joes don’t come to SV. It gives me a reason to leave this town over the weekends. "

To Debbie wrote on Jan 7, 2009 6:11 AM:

" Agreed, I don't know why some people log on here when they see someone they disagree with and all they can say is "Shut up". "

Dan wrote on Jan 7, 2009 12:32 AM:

" Yeah I live in Naples Italy, and to tell you the truth..... the ingredients they have here are nothing different from what you would get in the states, they have some different cheese, and they have better lagoustines, but i mean.... as far as being able to replicate italian food in the states..... it should not be that hard..... why go to delio's when you can buy a frozen dinner of better/same quality for cheaper? you people need to take a vacation and travel from time to time, treat yourselft to something nice now and then. "

Dan wrote on Jan 6, 2009 11:58 PM:

" Tanuki's is a good restaurant..... we need more like that, you know, local ones, not just the same old stuff, like olive garden, red lobster etc. last two times i ate at a red lobster my scallops were frozen in the middle, talk about nasty..... and my srimp were some nasty microwaved mess..... never going there again. Olive garden is not a bad restaurant, it's just nothing italian...... their seafood alfredo is good though. :-P If SV had a real Italian restaurant it would be awesome! Delio's is not Italian, can't really call it a restaurant either. "

Dan wrote on Jan 6, 2009 11:53 PM:

" Olive garden...... sure if you like fake italian food. But come on! why does SV keep bringing in more and more restaurants, that is all SV has, restaurants. Whole foods, Trader Joe's. yeah that would be nice, but do you really think one of those would come to SV? Delio's... why do people even eat there? goes to show how low a standard SV residents have. But I guess if you don't know any better then I can't critisize a business if it is sucessful in their area. "

Debbie wrote on Jan 6, 2009 6:52 PM:

" To John; You assume I was talking about people. I was talking about the city and the Herald. You know what happens when you assume. You'r not a nice person. "

Fish Eater wrote on Jan 6, 2009 5:47 PM:

" Thank the gods of Mount Fuji for Tanuki's - Sierra Vista is incredibly lucky to have such a restaurant located here...the caliber of the food is on a par with some of the best Sushi restaurants I have eaten at world wide... "

Brenda wrote on Jan 6, 2009 4:27 PM:

" Wow there are a lot of anti-walmarts in town. It's hard to believe there are so many when the parking lot is always full. As for unions, at one time they were needed and fullfilled that need. When businesses were hiring little kids to work and poor working condtions. I know there aren't many places to work that are perfect. If there were everyone would find something wrong there too. I am grateful for the choices we have in this town. I have lived here since 1970 and know what it's like to have nothing. "

down in SV wrote on Jan 6, 2009 4:18 PM:

" No matter what SV gets, in a year or so it will be dirtywith bad attitude workers. Why not bring in Trader Joes and more high end stores to give SV a little class. "

RWE wrote on Jan 6, 2009 1:11 PM:

" Delio's is okay but they get busiess by default. Olive Garden would do well in this town. I have been here since 75 and so has the talk of Red Lobster.
I miss Toys. "

To Math Teacher... wrote on Jan 6, 2009 10:56 AM:

" Their math may have been off, but the point came across well in both your posts. That extra 6 hours a week for the normal 40 hour work week could mean a lot for a family. It just shows how little walmart cares for its workers. "

Delios... wrote on Jan 6, 2009 8:21 AM:

" My experiences with Delios has been hit and miss, but nothing that has been so terrible that I had to run out screaming. I drive past there quite frequently and more often than not the parking lot is full and it is usually fairly full when I have gone there to eat, so maybe it isn’t the best food in town, but it seems there are many in the SV area that enjoy it. The one place I can’t stand to eat is the Texas Roadhouse. The food was pretty good, but the constant cheerleading was an annoyance. "

Math Teacher wrote on Jan 6, 2009 6:40 AM:

" To "To Brenda" you math is off. With a 40 hour work week there are 2080 work hours in a year. At $10/hour that would be $20,800 per year. A 34 hour work week would gross about $17,680 per year. "

To Steve wrote on Jan 6, 2009 6:09 AM:

" You just upset that they don't give money to the DNC like apple and Target, or do you simply not know the definition of the word, "Monopoly"? Exactly what goods does Wal-Mart have exclusive possession or control of? You can still get a cheaply made Chinese DVD player from Target, K-Mart, or a host of other places., and apple keeps blabbering endlessly about how they are getting more and more of the market. "

Steve wrote on Jan 5, 2009 6:20 PM:

" Wa-mart and Microsoft. What part of the definition of monopoly don't you understand? When a company begins to control the market, and then employs unfair means against their competition, like controlling their suppliers, and punishing their competitors, they are a monopoly and need to be busted with anti-trust regulation. "

Best Sit Down Eatery wrote on Jan 5, 2009 4:48 PM:

" The Outside Inn is by FAR the best sit down Eatery in Sierra Vista. Delio's can't touch it, their food is TERRIBLE. I went there twice, foolish move to give that establishment a second chance. "

Jay wrote on Jan 5, 2009 12:05 PM:

" I'm surprised that we have so many Italian gourmets in SV! What about Chinese? Any Chinese gourments out there care to comment on our pseudo Chinese restaurants? I think it depends on what people like, and Delio's has been around for quite a while. So if people want to eat there who cares what you think? Although I know squat about authentic Italian food, the last meal I had at an Olive Garden in Tucson was cold and under cooked. Now that's lousy for any kind of restaurant! "

To Brenda... wrote on Jan 5, 2009 11:49 AM:

" My wife is a former employee of walmart and when I asked her about it she stated that it is their definition of “full time” that is the problem. When you and I think “full time” we think of a 40 hour work week, but walmart considers “fulltime” to be someone working 34 hours a week. That may not seem like a lot, but that is a difference of 208 hours a year. To someone that is making 8-10 dollars an hour that is 1664 – 2080 dollars a year (before taxes). "

John wrote on Jan 5, 2009 11:37 AM:

" To Debbie, I'm sure someone has been hoping you would shut up for the past 10 years too but obviously that's not going to happen so live with it "

Mark C. wrote on Jan 5, 2009 10:59 AM:

" Thanks Danno for the references.

Future S.V. resident, don't let the high home prices get you down... find someone who has been trying to sell for over a year and offer 85%. "

Cj wrote on Jan 5, 2009 10:29 AM:

" delios uses canned sauces and leaves their cooked spegetti out all day. YUCK! I miss that little BBQ shack that used to be there! "

Mike wrote on Jan 5, 2009 7:55 AM:

" Laughable. So Wal Mart sells stuff made in China, if they sold all USA made stuff, you guys would cry that it was to expensive. Besides, everything there is not made in China, and I doubt there is a USA producer for EVERY product known to man. I think the downsize is a mistake, this slow down in growth will not last, never has......... "

Old Marine wrote on Jan 5, 2009 7:13 AM:

" Appears to me that the anti-Walmark types are haveing their way. I always thought competition was a good thing.

To Bill Weir: My experiences with unions "they cause companies to go out of business because they are selfish and don't understand business." "

Old Marine wrote on Jan 5, 2009 7:08 AM:

" Appears to me that the anti-Walmark types are haveing their way. I always thought competition was a good thing. "

Delios Gets Thumbs Down wrote on Jan 5, 2009 12:58 AM:

" I have dined at Delio's several times in the last couple years. The people are very nice, as well as the atmosphere. The first time the food was terrible. I thought maybe it was just a bad day, so I gave them several more times and the food was just horrible. Only good thing was the bread. Sorry, Jerry, you should go back to HR. Since you left, the place there's been alot of dirty politics going on there, Forget the Pasta and go back to Personnel. "

To Future SV Resident wrote on Jan 4, 2009 10:23 PM:

" I don’t think the majority of the folks here in town are into major shopping. If you can’t find it in town, you go to Tucson or shop on-line. No brainer. As for customer service, you find the same thing no matter where you go. You have to look at your priorities when deciding where to live. I’ve lived and worked in big cities and my time with family is a bigger priority than commuting. "

curious wrote on Jan 4, 2009 9:03 PM:

" Red Lobster Red Lobster Red Lobster - It's gross. Olive Garden!? It's just as gross. Ihop is OK as long as they clean it once in a while. Whatabuger would be nice and nasty too. Nice and greasy - yum yum yum "

DR wrote on Jan 4, 2009 7:34 PM:

" Someone mentioned the job losses, ever look in the Classifieds? Lots of jobs, priority # 1 is you gotta wanna work. (key Element) "

Baghdad Jim wrote on Jan 4, 2009 5:45 PM:

" Danno, I have to agree with Brenda about the NYT. They have been known to create the news instead of just reporting it. At the same time, I have to say Brenda, PBS is recognized as one of the most truthful news reporting organizations in the world.

One more note - Thanks europeannative for putting it into prospective for us. "

Italian Resident wrote on Jan 4, 2009 5:32 PM:

" Many years in Southern Italy (Ten years + Gaeta/Formia area south of Rome). Delio's is most definitely not Italian; its American making a poor attempt at replicating Italian. Not my cup of tea and not a place I would recommend to friends (at least those who I would like to keep as friends ;-) ) "

Debbie wrote on Jan 4, 2009 4:24 PM:

" The walmart plan has been going on for ten years. I.m sick of it eather build it or stop talking about it until you are going to build. It's all been a bunch of political BS. We just want a super center. so get on with it or shut up. "

Chuck Swinford wrote on Jan 4, 2009 2:16 PM:

" Amazing how people who know so little can know so much.

complaining about Walmart downsizing? reas the numbers... after downsize Walmart will still be 155,000sq. Being the current Walmart is in the 60,000sq range, this is quite the expansion. And for the ill informed who mentioned it, Bensons supercenter barely scrathces 40,000sw... smaller than out current store. And a 100K sams is plenty sizable, being there is virtually no "back of house" non retail space. As for the exisiting building, I have little love for Walmart, but will give credit for the fact that they never leave abandoned buildings. "

Believe it when I see it wrote on Jan 4, 2009 1:06 AM:

" I have lived in SV 17+ years and ever since moving here I've heard the rumors that Olive Garden and Red Lobster were coming to town. I'll believe it when I see it. When they cut the ribbon and feed their first patrons, I'll believe they are here. "

europeannative wrote on Jan 3, 2009 11:09 PM:

" Delio’s is one of the best restaurants in town. It might not be able to serve the exact Italian dishes, we are used to from Europe. There is no way that these nice folks are able to offer the exact same dishes we remember from Italy for the prices they charge. I am from Europe/Germany. There are Mexican restaurants in Germany. They are not able to produce the exact same dishes like all our favorite Hispanic restaurants in our area. They also do have to import some of their ingredients that we find quite cheap in all our grocery stores. We have to consider that. A lot of dishes have to be modified with ingredients that are available here in the US. If Delio’s would have to relay on only import items from Italy, sorry guys, we would not be able to afford their meals. "

Silly Billy wrote on Jan 3, 2009 9:26 PM:

" It doesn't take skills to work at Wal-Mart. No union needed or wanted. "

WOW wrote on Jan 3, 2009 7:08 PM:

" what do we need another bad restaurant and cheap store with cheap quality for? I'll go to Tucson and Cosco, thank you. "

bill weir wrote on Jan 3, 2009 6:43 PM:

" when is wal-mart and sams club going to let a union come in "

Brenda wrote on Jan 3, 2009 3:46 PM:

" NY Times and PBS? I take anything they say with a grain of salt. They lean to one side and are not fair and balanced. A memo which suggested? From what I understand WM is taking the initiative to open clinics and started selling generics for $4 in order to bring health costs down for it's employees. Health care and benefits is what broke the Big 3 automakers. Walmart could buy more American products but expect to may several times more for the item. Do you think most people really care where it coes from when it 10x cheaper? "

Future SV Resident wrote on Jan 3, 2009 3:13 PM:

" My wife and I recently moved to a rental home in SV. We are looking to buy but the lack of adequate retail outlets and the poor customer service rampant in the local restaurants has made us start looking elsewhere to buy a home. We were raised in small towns but SV is behind the times. Vail, which is much cheaper, has better built homes, more land, and is closer to Tucson shopping. The commute to work here in SV is painless considering the inflated housing prices here in SV. "

Danno wrote on Jan 3, 2009 11:09 AM:

" Brenda -
Here are your facts that you requested from the three other posters:
For Mark C' and Hereford's postings, visit the NY Times article here: www.nytimes.com/2005/10/26/business/26walmart.ready.html?_r=1

As for what Cr posted, tell me this Brenda: what happened to strict enforcement of the 10 Foot Rule? When is the last time you saw that in action here in Sierra Vista? Or how about the company's loudly-touted "Buy American" that quietly slipped away soon after Mr Walton? For more on those topics and many more, you should visit PBS and read about it : www.pbs.org/itvs/storewars/stores3.html

Not anti Wal-Mart, just pro-facts! "

SV Lifer wrote on Jan 3, 2009 9:18 AM:

" We triied Delio's once (Italian food is my wife's and my favorite). We never returned...nice folks and atmosphere but the food was god awful - a coupon for a post meal visit to the local cardiologist should have been included with the bill. Olive Garden might be a welcome addition to the town. "

desert bat wrote on Jan 3, 2009 7:34 AM:

" Yeah, Curious, I wonder the same thing about what will happen to the old big- box Walmart store. Why doesn't this paper run an article about this? Now is the time to raise the question, not after it becomes an abandoned, crumbling eyesore. "

Brenda wrote on Jan 2, 2009 10:27 PM:

" I agree Delio's is not true Italian, but the atmosphere and staff are very pleasant, there are many nice restaraunts in this town. Personally we stay home and eat most of the time because the standards in most restaraunts has declined. I have been to many places where the dishs are filthy and the staff are rather neglectful. I feel when I am spending my money, I want to be treated as a paying customer not just someone who is a bother. I loved the way a diner is treated in Europe. Perhaps because those are Mom and Pops restaruants. "

born_and_raised wrote on Jan 2, 2009 9:44 PM:

" 28 years of Sierra Vista and the rumors are still flying! Olive Garden has been "coming to Sierra Vista" since I was in middle school. Red Lobster as well. And guess what, we have the Hall at Sierra Vista, still no OG and still no RL. I'll believe it when I see it. As for Walmart, the wise thing to do is NOT build the Sam's Club and expand into the useless garden center and add a grocery section. Why spend more money on a new building when your waisting space with the old one? "

Brenda wrote on Jan 2, 2009 6:42 PM:

" Mark C, where is your proof that Wal-Mart has sent all the jobs overseas? I thought they preferred to buy USA when possible. Personally from what I know of Wal-mart they seem very patriotic.

Hereford, since when does Wal-Mart not hire full time personnel? I would like to know some numbers please if you are going to bash them.

Cr, What is Wal-Mart current philosophy? What changes did they make since Sam died?
Personally, I don't shop Wal-Mart due to the crowds. they do have great buys and sell about as much Made In America as anyone else in the country.
Regards "

Baghdad Jim wrote on Jan 2, 2009 4:11 PM:

" To "get real"

That's your opinion man. It is my opinion that Delios is the best sit down resturant in town. I've been to Italy too, stud, and quite frankly nothing can compare to a Mom and Pop Italian resturant/pizzaria in New Jersey. "

zippy wrote on Jan 2, 2009 1:11 PM:

" yep, delios is terrible... "

get real wrote on Jan 2, 2009 10:35 AM:

" delios is the best sit down italian in town??? Try the only one,who has a passion for drowning everything in anise seasoning. No thank you, having been stationed in italy and having real food(not drowning in sauce and over-seasoned) i would rather pick up a cook book and do it myself. Too bad some folks think his is the standard. They just do not have a clue. "

Jake wrote on Jan 2, 2009 10:08 AM:

" Personally, things were much better here in the 1950's and 60's. No wonder we have such a lazy and obese society. "

Connisour wrote on Jan 2, 2009 8:06 AM:

" Olive Garden will be welcome...its OK food but like Delio's Its not really Italian. Delio's is a real disappointment - the food is tastless, unhealthy (to much fatty selections, no real authentic native italian options that offer true mediteranian style cooking.
Bring a Macaroni Grill to Sierra Vista... "

Elle wrote on Jan 2, 2009 7:25 AM:

" Wal-Mart equates to cheap crap from China. I cannot find anything made in the USA these days. Whether Wal-Mart opens up another box store here does not affect me because I do not shop there. For me, on-line has been the way to go. As for restaurants, to each his own. Your taste is not the same as my taste so why criticize the opinion of others? I would like to see a White Castle here too, but for logistical reasons, the company will not be expanding in this direction. "

David wrote on Jan 2, 2009 6:47 AM:

" I go to Walmart once a month. They should downsize the current store. Next month I'll take my camping gear I think, it'll be an overnight expedition to find what I need that they have moved since last month that they have moved since the month before that they have moved since the month before that they have moved since the month before that they have moved since the month before that they have moved since the month before, ad nauseum. I really dislike Walmart since Sam died and the business model collapsed, as much as I dislike Tucson. "

curious wrote on Jan 2, 2009 12:46 AM:

" whats going to happen to the walmart building once they move out to the new location? is it just going to be another abandoned building in sierra vista? "

Imi Legal wrote on Jan 1, 2009 10:29 PM:

" Super WallyMart stick w/ the plan, avoid the downsize on the Sq. footage. Costco is just salivating on that once the foundation is set. As for 'Olive' welcome welcome Paisan..! Delios is fine if you have a fetish for the frozen item aisle at the grocer. Shout-Out! also goes out to 'Carrabas' if your looking for a place to set up new digs. "

Baghdad Jim wrote on Jan 1, 2009 6:15 PM:

" Olive Garden will be fine. My wife and I lke to go to the Olive Garden when we are traveling out of town. I whole-heartedly agree with Erika, Delios is the best sit-down Italian resturant in Sierra Vista. The resturant I would really like to see in town is Fuddruckers. I'm a cheeseburger nut and the closest one is in Tucson. Note to Delios - I'll be there on my next leave from Iraq! "

Kyle wrote on Jan 1, 2009 1:48 PM:

" With all the jobs being lost in Cochise county my question is what kind of benifit will this store bring to the unemployed of the county, Sierra Vista in general. If this will not put jobs on the table that will benifit the population then i see this as a wasted ambition that should be focused on regaining local work force and oh I dont know maybe putting more work into the boarder security oh wait i forgot asking the government to do things that will actually help us is too much we need action in that means. "

Erika wrote on Jan 1, 2009 10:15 AM:

" Well Olive Garden is nothing compared to thee great Itailian resturant we already have. Has anyone gone to Delio's?? It is great and priced about the same as Olive Garden. "

cr wrote on Dec 31, 2008 10:34 PM:

" Personally, I would prefer to see a White Castle Resturant over any other eatery. Regarding Wal Mart, Sam's Club, Super Wal Mart, whatever, I don't care. For me it is a store of last resort. Too crowded and I don't care for their current philosophy. I doubt todays store is what Sam Walton envisioned so many years ago when he wanted to offer American made goods at the best price possible. Such a shame. And I would still like to see White Castle here. "

Why Bigger wrote on Dec 31, 2008 8:46 PM:

" Considering oue economy and lack of intrest securing our borders plus more cheep labor visas, Why does Walmart even forsee a need to expand. We can find cheep Chineese imports at the present location along with almost every store in town. Since the counrty has destroyed itself following the money, lets vote with our dollars. Every business needs to suffer equally with the millions of Americans that have lost their jobs and homes. I'v choosen to shop second hand, eat at home, and watch the big businesses beg for more billons in bail outs. I totally agree with "Hereford" "

ConcernedPatron wrote on Dec 31, 2008 7:55 PM:

" Olive Garden, would be NICE but so would a Red Lobster and i am NOT holding my breath, but a In-and-Out Burger franchise would be like icing on the cake!! Wal-Mart downsizing sounds fiscally responsible with the economy the way it is. It is weird though that a Sam's Club Warehouse would be SO much smaller than the Supercenter? Someone has to be fiscally wise at this time and it seems that s the way it needs to be. "

Get Real wrote on Dec 31, 2008 7:43 PM:

" Walmart wages and benefits are just a good or better than Target. They are not going to drive some local businesses out of business, If you think that Safeway and Frys are local you are living in a time warp. Walmart will make them be competitive. I can't wait! "

Hereford wrote on Dec 31, 2008 7:22 PM:

" BOO FOR WAL-MART. The reason they are the richest retail store is because they don't want to hire for full time employees to pay health insurance. We the tax payers as usual will be stuck again with even more taxes to pay the welfare people who work at wal-mart. The rich get richer and the poor get poorer. "

to Irritated SV Resident wrote on Dec 31, 2008 5:54 PM:

" sorry to break this to you but the one in benson is super downsized and ourswill be a bigger o ne and benson dosent have a sams club so to youur little commet its bolagna "

Mark C. wrote on Dec 31, 2008 5:05 PM:

" The community would be better off without a Wal-Mart supercenter. Support small(er) businesses and retailers who don't lead the way in driving jobs overseas. Boycott Wal-Mart if you love your country. "

woohoo wrote on Dec 31, 2008 4:25 PM:

" I will never go to Tucson again... but then again, Olive garden was going to come here before-- so, we'll see. "

resident wrote on Dec 31, 2008 3:11 PM:

" OK so what are we gojng to call it Wal-Mart Super-small-center. Good grief! Another eatery, how about some sort of amusement place? Oh yeah! costs to much. I guess We''ll have to commute to Tucson etc. for fun. "

Yuk wrote on Dec 31, 2008 2:22 PM:

" Olive Garden = good Italian food? I guess if you never ate good Italian food it may seem that way.
Just as some think that Ragu is good sauce. "

Dilbert wrote on Dec 31, 2008 1:58 PM:

" Olive Garden and red lobster are the same company. WALMART could close their doors and go away, it would be good for the city "

Jay wrote on Dec 31, 2008 1:48 PM:

" I wonder if Theresa has any idea of which way is up?! How is it that you are so informed re what the City did/did not do? Are you on the City Council? Work in the Building Dept? Unless you have firm proof, you are just blowing wind. "

hungry sv resident wrote on Dec 31, 2008 11:47 AM:

" glad to see we have olive garden coming. finally good italian food! i'm already lining up! "

Pauly wrote on Dec 31, 2008 11:08 AM:

" Oh don't start that Olive Garden stuff again. Whats up, someone running for re-election? "

Al P wrote on Dec 31, 2008 10:12 AM:

" Now if we could just get The red Lobster That has been said is coming to town for Years & Years, And Whattaburger Would mke it complete. "

Irritated SV Resident wrote on Dec 31, 2008 9:21 AM:

" I knew this was coming. Set everyone's hopes up with the possiblity of a full sized Sam's Club and Walmart and then hack it down to "fit" SV growth. I'll just keep going to Benson or Tucson where a full sized store is available for me to do my shopping. "

Teresa wrote on Dec 31, 2008 9:02 AM:

" Olive Garden plans to open a restaurant now. Once the Sierra Vista City Government gives them a hard time and puts obstacles in their way like they did with Ihop, Red Lobster and other businesses, they will back out too. "

jack wrote on Dec 31, 2008 8:57 AM:

" Not surprising given the gloomy economic situation. However Sierra Vista is a growth area and the day may come when Wal Mart regrets their downsizing decision. "

JM wrote on Dec 31, 2008 8:18 AM:

" "In 2010, as few as 125 Wal-Mart Supercenters may open, based on Wal-Mart’s projections, down from 191 new stores in 2008. About 15 to 20 are expected to open in 2010, down from 25 in 2008. " Huh? Is this the new math? "

jim wrote on Dec 31, 2008 8:14 AM:

" are we actually going to get these things or are they trying to trick us like red lobster "

Moving Up wrote on Dec 31, 2008 8:02 AM:

" I really hope that the Olive Garden does come. Now all we need is a Red Lobster and a Guadalajara Grill, and I might not go to Tucson so often. Well, maybe if the mall could snag a Brighton store.... Sorry, but all of the dollar stores and fast food just don't cut it for me. "

n wrote on Dec 31, 2008 6:39 AM:

" Whatever happened to the IHOP? "

Mae wrote on Dec 31, 2008 6:25 AM:

" Wal Mart is making a mistake by making it a smaller building that will not attract people from all over the county when it is smaller and have less choices than they can get going to Tucson Wal Marts. Who wants another Douglas or Benson Wal Mart in the county.
Now Olive Garden is a good thing and so would Sweet Tomatoes or Red Lobster be nice. Or Even better a international pancake house. "