Children's author visits mall

By Staff
Special to The Star
Aug. 21, 2002
Best-selling children's author Richard Scarry will bring his Busytown storybook series to life Saturday at Bonita Lakes Mall.
The 2002 Richard Scarry's Busytown Express Tour will bring a variety of kid-designed activities to the mall. Activities will include a participatory musical revue, storybook readings, wall murals for coloring, a chance to help build the world's largest wooden toy train and a themed photo opportunity.
Thanks to Bonita Lakes Mall and a partnership with Coca Cola USA, Huckle Cat and Hilda Hippo will entertain families with a free fun-filled day of musical shows and meet-and-greets. Show times are 11 a.m., 1:30 and 4:30 p.m. in the J.C. Penney-McRae's court area.
A 25-minute meet-and-greets will also take place twice during the day. Times will be determined and posted at the mall's Web site, http://www.bonitalakesmall.com, once they are set.
The Busytown Express Tour features a variety of Busytown-inspired activities for children and parents to enjoy together including the following:
The Busytown Theatre: Huckle Cat, Hilda Hippo and Lowly Worm are featured in this musical review, which includes four songs from the popular Nick Jr. series, and focuses on learning and safety.
Storytime Readings: Throughout each appearance day, Busytown ambassadors will read stories from The Busy World of Richard Scarry.
The Busytown Train Station: In conjunction with Brio, maker of the beloved wooden toy train line, the tour offers children the chance to help build the world's longest train.
Busytown Art Shoppe: Murals featuring scenes from Busytown will be available as a fun coloring opportunity.
The Busytown General Store: Visitors can sit and watch their favorite Busytown video, and browse a variety of Busytown products.
Bonita Lakes Mall is owned and managed by CBL &Associates Properties, Inc. the largest owner of malls and shopping centers in the Southeast. The company has 160 shopping centers in 25 states.