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Local Voices

Simon Malls Bring Books to Life Through Simon Kidgits Club Book Blast Event at Ocean County Mall

Simon Malls® are welcoming families to experience the magic of reading at the mall. On Saturday, February 22, 2014, Simon Kidgits Club® at Ocean County Mall is hosting its free annual Book Blast event and inviting parents and children to bring books to life through special read-aloud sessions, giveaways and story-inspired activities.

Simon Kidgits Club’s Book Blast will provide families the chance to make reading a fun, social experience with various kid-focused offerings. Book Blast event activities will kick off with an exciting read-aloud session, featuring works of classic children’s literature like The Cat in the Hat and The Cat in the Hat Returns, scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m. in Center Court. Children are also invited to bring a new or gently used book to the event to be donated to a local charity, helping families give back to their own communities.  

“Because Simon Malls are destinations for families and friends to do more than just shop, Simon Kidgits Club is giving children the chance to experience all that books have to offer in a social setting,” said Jayne Stilson, assistant vice president of business development for Simon Brand Ventures, the business-to-consumer division of Simon Property Group. “We’re combining education with fun and allowing kids to simply have a blast with reading.”

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Additionally, Simon is teaming up with Better World Books to provide each child that attends the event a pre-loved book and bookmark to take home. Simon and Better World Books are also supporting literacy through a Drop Box book collection program. Families can participate in the program by donating books at Ocean County Mall’s Drop Box, located in the parking lot near the Oak Avenue mall entrance.

The Simon Kidgits Club is a fun and informative program that focuses on health, wellness, education, safety and entertainment for children ages 3-8. Since 2003, the Simon Kidgits Club has kept children and parents alike amused with various events and activities while providing incentives for club members, such as special offers, rewards and games.

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Simon Kidgits Club members receive a variety of goodies, including a Simon Kidgits Club T-shirt, membership card, birthday card and gift, discounts and scheduled activities. For more information about the Simon Kidgits Club, visit http://www.simon.com/kidgits/.

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