Summer in February
Fun in the sun comes to Eastern Hills Mall
by KIMBERLY M. KARCHER Clarence Editor

Leave the gloves, scarves and hats at home. It's time to dig out the sunglasses, swim trunks and sunscreen because Western New York is going to the beach.

Eastern Hills Mall will bring back the highly anticipated beach celebration, Summer in February, from Saturday, Feb. 17 through Sunday, Feb. 25.

The International Food Court has been transformed into a sand-filled haven for all ages to enjoy.

"We're so excited for this event," said Ellen Kaminsky, marketing manager for Eastern Hills Mall. "This is our fourth year of Summer in February, and each year it just gets better and better."

The event, created by design coordinator Karen Garrow, will kick off with a beach party at noon on Saturday.

"We'll begin with the fun-filled adult ice cream eating contest sponsored by Perry's," Kaminsky said. "The grand prize winner will take home a $100 gift certificate for the mall."

"And while the adults are competing for great gifts, Perry's mascot, 'Perrywinkle,' will join the fun and entertain the children."

DJ Dennis will be spinning the records from 1 to 3 p.m. when "beachgoers" can sing, dance and participate in a variety of contests for prizes. Children can play for hours in the sand, which is equipped with picnic tables, shovels, pails and much more, according to Kaminsky.

"The best thing about Summer in February is to watch the smiles on all the kids' faces as they are playing in the sand and enjoying time with their families," Kaminsky said. "Mom and dad can bring their little ones to the beach every day at Eastern Hills Mall, and the beach is located right next to our International Food Court, so the whole family can grab lunch or dinner from one of our many vendors."

Every child will receive a free tropical hand puppet when they visit mall services, located in center court. To receive their free gift, children must show their Club Eastern Hills membership card. Club Eastern Hills is free to join and allows children and adults to receive the latest information on events and happenings at Eastern Hills Mall.

"Kids and their parents can come to the beach and forget about this frozen tundra we've been living in these past couple weeks," Kaminsky said. "When you're at Summer in February, you'll feel like you're in the sun, enjoying the time with your family and friends."

Summer in February will wrap up with the "Duck Pond Fishing Derby" scheduled from 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24

"During the derby, children 12 and under can 'pluck-a-duck' for great prizes." Kaminsky said. "We look forward to another 'hot' fun-filled family celebration here at Eastern Hills Mall."

The beach is open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 11 a.m to 5 p.m. Sunday.

For more information, contact Eastern Hills Mall at 633-1600.