WASHINGTON (AP) — The full scope of the housing meltdown isn’t clear and already there are ominous signs of a new crisis — one that could turn out the lights on malls, hotels and storefronts nationwide. Even as the holiday shopping season begins in full swing, the same events poisoning the housing market are now [...]

Here is a list of companies which may well not make it if their sales drop by double digits this holiday season compared to last: 1. Bon-Ton Store2. Dillard’s 3. Talbots 4. Pier 1′s5. Cost Plus6. Williams-Sonoma7. Chico’s 8. Fitch 9. Eddie Bauer’s10.Rite Aid Circuit City filed Chapter 11Ann Taylor 117 stores nationwide closingLane Bryant, [...]