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Commitments and Contingencies:
 9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2012
Commitments and Contingencies:  
Commitments and Contingencies:

17. Commitments and Contingencies:

        The Company has certain properties that are subject to non-cancelable operating ground leases. The leases expire at various times through 2098, subject in some cases to options to extend the terms of the leases. Certain leases provide for contingent rent payments based on a percentage of base rental income, as defined in the lease. Ground rent expense was $2,244 and $2,091 for the three months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively, and $6,329 and $6,475 for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. No contingent rent was incurred during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 or 2011.

        As of September 30, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the Company was contingently liable for $4,224 and $19,721, respectively, in letters of credit guaranteeing performance by the Company of certain obligations relating to the Centers. The Company does not believe that these letters of credit will result in a liability to the Company.

        The Company has entered into a number of construction agreements related to its redevelopment and development activities. Obligations under these agreements are contingent upon the completion of the services within the guidelines specified in the agreements. At September 30, 2012, the Company had $66,310 in outstanding obligations which it believes will be settled in the next twelve months.