MOUNT VERNON — Even though the economy has many working with tighter budgets this holiday season, the thrill of Black Friday continues. Rising early, bundling up and standing in line during the darkest hours of the night to get the best deals is a tradition for many — regardless of how much cash is at hand.
As early as 4 a.m. Friday, shoppers, with lists in hand, will be scouring clothing racks, treading through toys, choosing video games and even eying the perfect gag gift — all shoulder-to-shoulder in a frazzled hurry.
To help plan the day, look in Thursday’s edition of the Mount Vernon News for a third section that will not only offer guidance on shopper courtesy and alternatives for a hometown holiday, but will also include sales fliers from 11 businesses that could shape the way Christmas shopping is done.
According to these advertisements, JCPenny will be kicking off local holiday shopping beginning at 4 a.m. From jewelry to clothing — even luggage — there are lots of items on sale.
Sears will open its doors at 5 a.m., for those with tools and appliances on their gift lists. Flat screen televisions, exercise equipment and game tables are also on sale.
Stores like Kmart, Big Lots, Lowes and Staples will usher in customers at 6 a.m. with a variety of items available to fill the wishes of friends and loved ones.
Although sales will be offered throughout the weekend, Kmart will also offer special sales for Friday morning only. Electronics, clothing, jewelry and housewares are traditionally good buys found at this big retailer.
Big Lots will join Kmart with early bird specials Friday morning on already discounted merchandise.
For those who typically shop Lowes for household maintenance items, don’t count out the do-it-yourself store for gift ideas at special prices on Friday. Although tools are plentiful at Lowes, Christmas decorations are also available, as well as ideas for the men and women on a shopping list.
Peebles will open at 7 a.m. for its first holiday shopping season in Mount Vernon. Like many competitors, Peebles has plenty of specials available for the early shoppers, as well as for those who like to wait until crowds thin out later in the day.
When the thrill of Black Friday is over and there’s only a few shopping items left to buy, remember a gift certificate to the Mount Vernon News makes a great gift. The News is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
