Chilly weather did not stop early shoppers at Eastwood Mall

NILES — Inside from the chilly, florescent-lighted parking lot of the Eastwood Mall in Niles, shoppers got an early start to their sprees. By 4:30 a.m., a handful of stores opened their gated entrances to eager Black Friday crowds.

Veterans and newcomers to the tradition said they came for many reasons: slashed prices, store freebies, and the thrill of the hunt.

“I don’t really come out for the deals,” said Tami Young, 27. “I’m here for the sport of it.”

Along with individual store goodies, like Bath and Body Works’ loaded “VIP Bag” and the Macy’s annual snow globe giveaway, Eastwood Mall provided their first 200 customers with bags of sales and specials.

Young said she has come out for the last seven years for the snow globes more than anything else.

“I’ve got a row of them that sit out year-round,” she said.

Her cousin, first-timer Missy Gee, said she plans to make Black Friday shopping her new routine.

“Definitely,” she said, “I’m finding a baby sitter next year!”

“I thought I might be too tired, but I’m up and ready for more,” she said.