DOWNEY - Shoppers everywhere are constantly on the lookout for the best deals, and on Black Friday, shoppers flock to their favorite stores to catch all the deals and steals for the holiday season.Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving when stores everywhere cut back prices and open for extended hours. Many shoppers seek out the best deals, and get their family and friends' holiday wish lists completed early. Many shop on this day in hopes of saving some money, especially students that are on a tight and limited budget. Students are beginning to save that holiday cash and get ready for one of the biggest shopping days of the year. "For me, Black Friday is important because I know I will be saving more money on that day than any other day," said Downey resident and shopper Angela Castelli. "I'm a college student with a part time job, so saving money is a pretty smart thing for me to do. On Black Friday, I would normally go for the things that are generally harder to get during the holidays, like electronics. Also the bigger ticket items for my nephews, such as the more expensive toys." While Black Friday is clearly a day for saving money and finding steals, it's also a day for something many shoppers dread - crowds. With so many bargains, it's obvious that lines may be longer than normal; however, Stonewood Center marketing assistant Brian Malony has a few tips to help shoppers beat the rush. "If you're not specifically going for door-buster sales, I personally would suggest shopping between 10 a.m. and noon," said Malony. "So many people camp out overnight or leave their house at 3 a.m., that we traditionally see an 'eye of the hurricane' type calm during that time frame. "But don't wait too long - the afternoon crowd will flood the center before you know it! However, if you are interested in getting the biggest and best deals, you need to be there first thing." Students and Downey residents alike will be shopping on Black Friday, and many can be found at Downey's shopping hub: Stonewood Center. According to their webpage www.shopstonewoodcenter.com/events/blackfriday2010, there will be many deals and incentives to lure shoppers in to the mall on the big day. From two-for-$12 cardigans at Forever 21, to Daniel's Jewelers giving free freshwater pearls to those who spend $49.95, there's sure to be something to spark your shopping interests. There are also events and special mall hours posted on the site, along with more offers and details on the big day. Another big shopping location in Downey is Best Buy located in the Downey Landing, where each year shoppers are known to camp out starting as early as Thanksgiving night to get the best deals on their electronic needs. Black Friday is only one week away, so start saving that cash and get ready to experience the best sales you'll find all holiday season.

********** Published: November 18, 2010 - Volume 9 - Issue 31