Walgreens Is First of Three Grand Openings Saturday on Springfield Avenue

The town celebrated , but perhaps it should have saved the parade for Saturday, Nov. 19.

That's because not one, not two, but three local businesses are holding grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremonies this Saturday.

The lead-off business is the big news story of the avenue — the long-anticipated, newly constructed at 1635 Springfield Avenue opens its doors to the public with a ribbon cutting at 11:30 a.m.

Celebrations at this ribbon cutting will include free face painting, art and craft projects for children, a fire safety education trailer on site, a raffle "and more," according to a release from the , the not-for-profit group that manages promotions and events for businesses on the avenue.

The 12,175 square foot Walgreens is a little smaller than the typical Walgreens (14,000 sf) but offers a drive-through pharmacy and a brick-facade and fabric awnings carefully selected to meld with and enhance the look of the avenue. Hours of operation for the front-end store are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Sunday. The Everyday Pharmacy is open 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

Next up is the ribbon cutting at 's grand re-opening at 12:15 p.m. at 1809 Springfield Avenue (973.762.5425). Durand Howard moved Blue Life Karate from Valley Street in January 2010. Success at the location has dictated the need and ability to improve the space again.

Finally, raises the curtain for its grand opening ribbon cutting at 5 pm. at 1883 Springfield Avenue (973.896.1003). Maplewood resident Joe O'Bannon to the former location of Kari's Cafe at Springfield and Prospect.

Mayor Vic DeLuca and members of the Township Committee will be on hand for all three ceremonies.