The Idaho Statesman reports today that Boise Town Square mall won't open at crazy hours on Black Friday. Last year the largest shopping center in Bosie was among several shopping centers nationally which opened near midnight for sales that were billed as extraordinary. While there were some problems with last year's 1 AM opening it would not take much to imagine that the austere consumer spending reports figure into the decision as well.

One effect of the market downturn and wary consumers is a plentiful sale season. Sears sale flyers and specials are filling customer's email boxes with sales starting well in advance of Halloween. Last year for example Apple did a number of sales on Black Friday and speculation is running high for some deep discounting while folks are on a turkey-induced buying spree.