The Manhattan Village mall has a shuttle service available for weary shoppers, and additional mall parking is available at the adjacent Manhattan Country Club to accommodate holiday crowds, said marketing director Margo Heltzel. A children's story hour is offered from 2 to 4 p.m. weekdays and 1 to 4 p.m. weekends in the center court near Buffum's, concluding with a reading of "The Night Before Christmas" at 11 a.m. and noon on Dec. 24.
To entertain restless youngsters, the Carson Mall has installed a train ride and other amusements at the entrance to the mall, according to marketing director Cindy Smith.
Beware of Crime
Mall operators and local police encourage shoppers to be especially wary of crime at this time of year.
At Del Amo, the Torrance Police Department this week opened a storefront police substation and has added a fourth officer to help reduce crime at the mall. Roseann J. Neprud, the department's community relations and crime prevention officer, offered these suggestions for shoppers:
Use the buddy system when possible. Most personal attacks and robberies happen when a person is alone and off guard.
Park in well-lighted areas, as close as possible to store entrances.
Carry as little cash as possible. Use checks and credit cards.
Put your purchases out of sight, in the trunk of your car.
Mark gifts in some manner before wrapping them, and record serial numbers to aid in recovery of the item in case of theft.
