HOWELL, Mich. (WILX) - Black Friday may have started early this morning, but shoppers at Kensington Valley Outlets didn’t find a moment of silence.

Parking spots were at a premium, and bags were filling fast as residents and visitors hunted for deals ahead of the holiday season.

“We didn’t get up early, we were like maybe we will miss the rush if we come in later, but, nope, it was still fighting for a parking spot,” said Rozanne Ford of Eaton Rapids, summing up the chaotic start to the day.

Inside the outlets, shops like Beeyond Treasures felt the energy immediately. Owner Mandy Haynes said the day is more than just a shopping rush; it’s a lifeline for businesses like hers during slower months.

“It gets us through the slower months; it’s something we all rev up for. It makes the slowe

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