Kids’ Tale

Once Upon a Child is a franchised resale chain for children’s apparel and furnishings that is spreading nationwide with more than 600 locations and now a new Burbank branch.

These stores are put together by GrowBiz, the nation’s No. 1 retailer of used merchandise. Each store operates separately and each carries different resale merchandise. Also, new items--purchased at excellent prices through the parent company’s clout and available at all locations--make up about 40% of the inventory.

Most locations of Once Upon a Child, including those operated by James Shokouhi in Burbank and Northridge, pay immediately for accepted items. Clothing must be clean, in current style, without tears or stains, without worn knees or elbows and with all buttons and clasps attached. Name brands are preferred.

Everything must be freshly laundered and individually folded when brought in. Toys and games must be clean, complete and working. Most stores also keep “wish lists” and call customers when the desired merchandise arrives.

Whether you need children’s apparel, furniture, toys, footwear, bedding or room decor, it’s worth big savings to check out Once Upon a Child.

The Burbank store is open but will have grand-opening festivities Feb. 17. Here’s a list of other branches in Southern California:

Burbank, 1032 Alameda Ave., (818) 557-7400; La Crescenta, 2607 Foothill Blvd., (818) 248-9996; Northridge, 8945 Tampa Ave., (818) 882-7777; Thousand Oaks, 450 N. Moorpark Ave., (805) 379-1663; Valencia, 25870 McBean Parkway, (805) 253-3756; Ventura, 4711-4 Telephone Road, (805) 654-0123.

WEEKEND SUPER SALE: On Saturday, Kawai pianos on display at the 1999 National Assn. of Music Merchants show will be sold by the manufacturer direct to the public at prices 30% to 50% off the regular price.

The selection will include consoles, studios, uprights, baby grands, grands, EX concert grands and digital pianos. All are new and carry a full factory warranty. Financing and delivery can be arranged on site. Sale is from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the TCW Building, 865 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles. For information, call (888) 742-6698.