News of a possible fiscal cliff didn’t stop thousands of local shoppers from emerging from their sleepy turkey-induced fog to take advantage of Black Friday deals.
Thousands of shoppers took advantage of Black Friday deals at Promenade Temecula. (Daniel Lane)
With many department stores opening their doors before the holiday dishes could have possibly dried, the mad rush to get a jump on holiday shopping was underway at Promenade Temecula.
Murrieta resident Norine Moore, 40, joined hundreds of others in line starting shortly after midnight for a chance to spend $65 and receive a free tote at Victoria’s Secret.
She admitted that the tote was probably worth less than $5, but that the experience was still worth it.
“We’re using this as mother-daughter bonding time,” Moore said.
Moore said that, despite the unhealthy conditions of cramming so many thousands of people into the mall, she will be back again next year.
Photo gallery courtesy of photojournalist Daniel Lane:
Ernie Reyes of Murrieta brought along his 12-year-old daughter to the mall who planned to shop at Forever 21.
“Hopefully, we’re saving more than we’re spending,” Reyes said, chuckling.
Reyes said that he planned to hit other malls throughout the night.
Thousands of shoppers lined in the early morning hours of Black Friday for deals at Promenade Temecula. (Daniel Lane)
“It’s not been that crazy. It’s been fun. It’s been orderly and organized. I don’t see any rowdy crowds,” Reyes said.
Hemet resident Glen Zastrow, joined by his wife and daughter, was among the throng of early, early morning shoppers.
He guessed that, by morning, he would save more on purchases than he would spend.
However, despite the lure of the deals, Zastrow said: “I don’t think the stores should have (opened on Thanksgiving). That day should be left for spending time with the family. (Shoppers) should all be with their families. The same is true for employees. They should be home with their families, too.”
*Daniel Lane contributed to this report.
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