Shop 'til you drop at Maple East's Boutique Sale
by JILL SCHMELZER Reporter

The Maple East Elementary School Playground Committee will hold a Boutique Sale from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 10 at the school, 1500 Maple Road, Williamsville.

The existing wooden playground at the school is 15 years old and has out lived its expected life. Although the structure is still usable and safe, parents at Maple East decided to start a committee to raise funds for a new updated play area that will comply with America's Disabilities Act, making it wheelchair and handicapped accessible.

In the past 18 months, since the committee's inception, it has received a grant from Sen. Mary Lou Rath, R-Amherst. However more funds are needed in order for construction to begin, said Sue Keenan, chair of the Boutique Sale.

Saturday's event will emulate a shopping bazaar with jewelry, fashion and home decor vendors.

In the fashion world, vendors who make scarves, knitted pants, purses and spring clothing will line the walls for browsers to shop at.

There will also be vendors for children, including Gingerbear House, where youths can stuff their own animal.

A pie mix maker and Tupperware man will also sell items, and a spa corner will offer massages and facials.

It can be a whole-day, one-stop event for men and women looking to support the playground and do some early-spring shopping, Keenan said.

"It's nice to go to one-stop shopping," said Keenan. "It's like going to the mall."

The event will also feature Irish dancers at 1 and 3 p.m.

The cost is $3 at the door and all proceeds will benefit the playground fund. Food and beverage will also be available for purchase.

e-mail: JSchmelzer@beenews.com