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August 2009
Twitter users can win trip to Hawaii
Earlier this month, the More With Less Today deal-spotting site had news of a contest that could save you a bundle if you hope to see the waving palm trees and azure waters of Hawaii this year.
According to the site, the Hawaii Marriott Resorts are giving away 25 free trips to our 50th state in drawings between Aug. 28 and Oct. 21, in their Tweet Yourself to Hawaii Sweepstakes.
The trips will depart from Seattle, Portland, Sacramento, Oakland, San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles and San Diego, so we here in the Dayton area would have to foot the bill to get our bottoms to the West Coast.
But the rest of the trip — including the five-night hotel stay, rental car and dining — would be on Marriott.
Reportedly, three vacations will be awarded each week via Twitter and Facebook. Winners also will be notified by e-mail.
This week’s featured islands are Oahu, Kauai and Hawaii’s Big Island.
All trips must be taken by Dec. 20.
For more information (including how to enter another Hawaii-themed vaction via YouTube), visit the More With Less Today site, and the Marriott site.
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Contests, Savings
TweetFree chicken sandwich for sports fans on Labor Day
Chick-fil-A is having a special sports-themed Labor Day giveaway this coming Monday, Sept. 7, offering a free chicken sandwich to anyone wearing their favorite sports team logo from 10:30 a.m. to close.
DealNews, which let me know of this deal, had some other restaurant bargains and freebies of note as well:
A printable coupon for a free dessert at Mimi’s Cafe with the purchase of a meal valued at $10 or more. There is a Mimi’s at The Greene.
Smokey Bones, there is one on Miller Lane, has a coupon for $10 off a $20 purchase.
A free small limeade with purchase at A&W, using this printable coupon.
And one that expires today, Aug. 31, is a coupon code for 80 percent off gift certificates at Restaurant.com.
Of note on this last onel is that, even though the savings drop back down to their regular large savings of $25 gift certificates for $10, the site gets new restaurant listings at the beginning of each month so the selection likely will be better Tuesday.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Free stuff, Savings
TweetGet in on August deals before they expire
DealHack has a good, lengthy roundup of deals from this month, some of which are due to expire as the calendar turns or slightly thereafter.
Among the deals are a Nintendo Wii game console for $200 from Newegg, up to 50 percent off plus and extra 25 percent off storewide at Puma and an extra $100 or $200 off refurbished notebook PCs at DFS.
Another great, limited-time deal that was spotlighted by the Deal Seeking Mom last week is buy one pair of Crocs, get another free.
This sale focuses on discontinued summer styles and will be around while supplies last.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetCertain coupons with receipts can make you money
Today, Andrea Deckard of Mommy Snacks not only has the best coupon/ad deals for the week but she also has some good advice on further ways to save money.
“Have you heard of a Catalina? In my coupon lingo, I share what many couponing acronyms are,” Deckard said.
According to Deckard, a Catalina is a coupon that prints with your receipt. Certain products prompt these coupons to print.
“These are typically valid at grocery stores like Kroger and Meijer,” she said. “And, sometimes — like this week — Catalinas can make your purchase a money-maker!”
Deckard said she includes these Catalina coupons in her grocery matches on Mommy Snacks.
Here are the best coupon/ad matches, and Catalina finds, Deckard found for this week, Aug. 30 to Sept. 5:
$3 Money-Maker on Glade Fragrance Collection after coupons/Extra Care Bucks
ECB Deal on Gillette Fusion Razor and Shampoo. Scenario at Mommy Snacks
$.75 Dawn Dish Liquid
FREE Theraflu w/printable coupon
FREE Reach Floss
$1 Money-Maker on Carefree Liners after coupons/Register Rewards
FREE Kool-Aid Singles. This is a Catalina Money-Maker — stop by Mommy Snacks for the details,
FREE A-1 Steak Sauce
FREE Reese’s Cups Candy Bar
FREE Hefty One-Zip Storage Bags
FREE Brut Deodorant
$.99 Tylenol Pain Relief w/printable coupon
Ice Cream Gift Card Deal. Stop by Mommy Snacks to see how you can get five quarts of Edy’s Ice Cream for $2.50 after coupons and gift card.
FREE Schick Razor
$5.99 Huggies Diapers Jumbo Pack
$1.50 Glade Soy Candle w/printable coupon
$.29 Sense & Spray Starter Kit
FREE Bengay Patches
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Andrea's best deals
TweetHere’s the Deal: Tips to save on lunches
Are you buying or packing? That question is being posed in area homes more often of late — and not just to students.
In this economy, more people are looking at what they can do to save money. And many are finding that eating out is an area where they can make cuts.
To help toward that end, here are 12 ideas that could help you save money on lunches for you or for your children:
Pack your lunch. This is the easiest way to save big. It provides a moderate savings for students, whose school lunches are around the $2.50 to $3 mark (not counting extras), and can be a big savings for those in the workplace who can easily spend $5 to $10.
If you pack, compare prices before buying prepackaged cookies or crackers. For example, Goldfish crackers are only slightly more expensive when you buy them in the individual packages.
The large 11-ounce box costs $4.79, and the box of nine 1.25-ounce packages (for a total of 11.25 ounces), costs $5.29.
However, Chips Ahoy! cookies are much more expensive individually. The regular package, at 15.25 ounces, costs around $2.75, and the prepackaged box of 12 packs, which are one ounce each for a total of 12 ounces, costs $4.
Also of note is that, although the prepackaged goods can save you a little time when you are packing your lunch, they do create more waste and are less environmentally friendly.
- Bring a drink with you. A soft drink out of the vending machine or as a fountain drink costs between $1 and $2. But, if you buy a 12-pack at home and bring one in for lunch, that same soda will cost you closer to 25 cents.
- Consider using a Thermos, which costs anywhere from $3 to $20, for drinks like milk or coffee. This can be a big savings if you are purchasing coffee from a higher-end coffee house.
However, there doesn’t seem to be much savings in buying a bottle of juice vs. juice boxes.
For example, Juicy Juice in the 46-fluid-ounce container costs around $2.50, while a pack of eight Juicy Juice boxes, each at 6.75 fluid ounces for a total of 54 fluid ounces, the cost is just $2.59.
And cheaper still, if you don’t care as much about it being 100 percent juice, Capri-Sun drinks cost less than $2 for 10 6-ounce packages.
Try drinking water with lunch. Not only is it free, but it is a healthier option.
Revisit the peanut butter and jelly sandwich. This old standby is packed with protein, and will cost you around 44 cents (11 cents for peanut butter, 8 cents for jelly and 25 cents for bread).
If you go out to lunch with a friend, consider splitting the meal. At some restaurants, the entree (even the lunch version) is oversized and can easily feed two. This can help, too, if you are trying not to overeat.
If your workplace or school has a salad bar that charges per ounce, consider bringing in some of the heavier toppings from home, such as dressings, canned tuna or chicken, or even a hard-boiled egg.
Check out the microwave dinner options. These are quick and easy, require no preparation, and can cost between $1 and $3.
At work, organize a potluck once a week. Not only will you try a variety of food, but you likely will get to know your co-workers (and their culinary skills) better.
Bring in leftovers. They are free, and it is likely a recipe you like. Make a big meal on Sunday and freeze the rest for lunches throughout the week.
Eat at home. If your school or work offers this option, it is another way to save money.
Early Labor Day, late back-to-school sales
This weekend is somewhat of a lull between the last of the back-to-school sales and next weekend’s Labor Day sales.
However, the calendar isn’t stopping some businesses from celebrating the holiday early.
Sears, hhgregg and Bass Pro Shops are all advertising Labor Day sales for this weekend. Sears is offering 50 percent off plus 10 percent off mattresses; hhgregg has “everything on sale,” including a 42-inch Panasonic HDTV for $599.97 (it is originally $749.99); and Bass Pro Shops has 40 percent off select hiking boots and markdowns on clothing.
As for the back-to-school sale stragglers, Target has girls’ shirts for $10-$15, and Kohl’s has Levi’s for $29.99-$32.99, which has been the going rate this season for Levi’s on sale.
Office Depot is still selling many school supplies for 10 cents to 99 cents, and is offering free supplies when you spend $5 or more. Office Max still has it Back To School for Pennies drive going on, with many supplies for a penny.
As for other sales, Target has girls’ shirts from $10-$15 and handbags for $20, and CVS, is having its “free” sale starting today. The CVS sale offers batteries, coffee, notebooks, chips and more for buy one, get one free when you use your Extra Care Bucks card.
And finally, Menard’s, which already has great discounts, is having a storewide clearance on patio furniture and other seasonal items.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Sunday columns
TweetFamily of 6 eats for less than $10 — a week
I have written stories about area residents — usually mom bloggers — who, through their careful manipulation of coupons and sales, never pay for toothpaste or toilet paper and spend very little on groceries overall.
And I usually have a few naysayers who read these stories and then call me to say that just isn’t possible.
So, being confident in the fact that these folks that I interview are telling the truth about their expenditures (since they show me the receipts and detail the process carefully), I feel the need to pass along information on how others are managing this concept as well to help further illustrate that it can be done.
And, if nothing else, it makes interesting reading.
Along those lines is this story that was forwarded to me from one of these awesome local mom bloggers, Amy Deal of FromBottle2Box.com.
The story is about Kathy Spencer, a Massachusetts mom who feeds her family of six (and myriad pets) consistently for less than $10 a week, and averaging an expense of $4 a week.
Now, Spencer does spend hours each week on this endeavor and I’m not sure exactly what they are eating, but she said she manages it by using coupons, stockpiling and freezing things she can use later.
If nothing else, there are good tips in her story that many of us can utilize.
Permalink | Comments (7) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetRobocalls to be banned Tuesday
For those of you who hate machines calling you, Tuesday, Sept. 1, will be a happy day.
Tuesday is when the last of a series of amendments regarding robocalls goes into effect. And, with this final amendment, these calls will effectively be banned.
According to CNN and the Federal Trade Commission, these businesses that try to push products on consumers with automated and unsolicited calls will face fines of up to $16,000 per call.
This ban on many prerecorded calls initially was approved by the FTC in August 2008.
Of note, however, is that not all automated callers come under this umbrella.
CNN said that calls from politicians, public service announcements and informational calls (like from an airline regarding your flight) will be exempt from the new rule. Also, banks, telephone carriers and most charitable organizations are excluded from the ban.
For those who want to report a questionable robocaller, the FTC has a complaint site for you to contact.
Permalink | Comments (9) | Post your comment | Categories: Consumer interest
TweetAirlines hike bag fees (again), and guess which is the safest airline?
On Wednesday, Aug. 26, US Airways and Continental Airlines announced that they were each raising their fees for checked bags.
For US Airways, according to CNN, the fee has been increased by $5.
Continental’s increase affects the second checked bag fee for transatlantic flights, which went to $50. Travelers who pay in advance will be charged $45.
And The Consumerist noted today that American Airlines is raising checked bag fees for some international flights to Europe and India.
“The first bag will remain free but the second bag will now cost $50. Last month, AA raised the fees for checked bags on domestic flights by $5 per bag.”
For a breakdown of how much each airline charges, visit the Airfare Watchdog site.
These latest changes may not be reflected on the chart yet, though, since it was last updated Aug. 12.
And, on a related airline note, The Consumerist (again) discussed a story that found AirTran (yes, AirTran) to be the safest airline to fly these days.
According to their source, edgy news aggregator The Daily Beast, the safest airlines are, in order:
AirTran
JetBlue
Southwest
US Airways
American
Alaska
Continental
Delta
Northwest
United
Permalink | Comments (5) | Post your comment | Categories: Consumer interest, Helpful information, Price changes
Tweet200,000 stoves recalled for fire hazard
Frigidaire has recalled 200,000 smoothtop ranges, sold under the Frigidaire and Kenmore brand names, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Consumer Reports on Thursday, Aug. 27.
Depending on the model, there reportedly have been 126 reports of stoves that, 1) turn on spontaneously without being switched on; 2) fail to turn off after being switched off; or, 3) heat to different temperatures than selected.
All of these, in addition to being somewhat eerie, pose a fire and burn hazard to consumers.
So far, the company has received four reports of minor burns and two of minor property damage.
These ranges were made in the U.S. and sold at Sears and other retailers from June 2001 through August 2009 for between $1,000 and $2,500.
For model numbers and more information, visit the CPSC Web site.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Recalls
Tweet“Deal Detectives” TV show focuses on Dayton
“The Deal Detectives,” a Columbus-based TV show, has shifted its focus to Dayton for its third season.
The half-hour show, which will be on at 9 a.m. Sunday mornings on WKEF-TV Channel 22, will offer a season-long forum for area businesses to discuss the incentives they have to offer for residents in the Dayton area, and a chance for area consumers to learn about stores without leaving their homes.
Dave Douglass of Envision Media Group, which produces the show, said in each episode will feature eight businesses, and each business get three minutes of airtime.
In viewing a previous episode (which is on the site as well), it appears that the host, Mike Kilburn, interviews these business owners about what they have for local consumers.
“The (advertisers) have a combination of different things to offer,” Douglass said. “Some are more centered on deals, and others are more informative. Most discuss how their business can help people.”
Douglass said the best feedback they’ve received from those on the show is that it gives those businesses a way to get their message out.
“This really gives people a chance to talk to a person at home like they were standing in your store.”
But what have consumers said about viewing the show?
“We’ve gotten e-mails from people telling us they’ve liked the show and suggesting other categories,” he said.
The first Dayton-oriented show will be Sunday, Aug. 30. Some of the businesses that will be featured in area episodes include Save-A-Lot Foods, Dave Dennis Dodge, Kitchen Tune-Up and Belmont Coin.
Douglass said there are many more lined up for future shows, as well as some openings for those who want to be involved.
For businesses interested in participating, call Douglass at (614) 847-0424, Ext. 19.
After Sunday’s premiere, the show will run from Sept. 13 to Dec. 13.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetJoin DQ Blizzard fan club, get coupons
Dairy Queen is a good one for coupons. The restaurant often has buy-one-get-one-free coupons in various fund-raising packages, including Entertainment books, but they also are a member of the crowd that gives benefits if you become a fan of the restaurant on Facebook.
According to an announcement Thursday, Aug. 27, anyone joining the Blizzard Fan Club during September not only receives the club welcome “buy-one-get-one-free” offer, but also receives a $1 off coupon for the Oreo Cookie Jar Blizzard.
The Oreo Blizzard, by the way, is reportedly the best-selling Blizzard.
The announcement added that current fan club members also will receive the $1 off coupon in their September Blizzard Fan Club e-mail blast.
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Tweet2010 Entertainment books on sale now
This year’s Entertainment books, which each have around $14,000 worth of coupons, are available now. They are not only a great resource for local discounts, but can help out organizations in the Miami Valley.
You can buy the books through some local schools or other fund-raising entities, or via the Web site.
This cost is $35 (or $30 with some fundraisers) for the Dayton/Springfield book, and the site notes that there are 285 local restaurant discounts, 99 local attraction markdowns, 195 shopping coupons, golf course deals, movie ticket coupons, $15,000 in travel discounts and more.
New this year is four $5 off coupons on the front of the book for GFS Marketplace, Steak ‘n Shake, TGIFriday’s and Cassano’s Pizza.
Just thumbing through the book my kids brought home, the bigger deals look to be $45 off membership at Dayton Center Courts and Tennis Academy, up to 50 percent off four view level seats at the Cincinnati Reds game for a savings of $44 and $30 off plus 25 percent off a week’s rental from Avis rental cars.
For more about this year’s book, visit the Entertainment book Web site.
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TweetToys R Us to launch Cash for Cribs
It seems that the apparent success of the Cash for Clunkers program is inspiring a variety of similar programs that aim to get less desirable products out of the hands of consumers in exchange for cash incentives.
That’s just what Toys R Us has in mind with its new program, Cash for Cribs.
The program aims to increase child safety, since many used baby products become a hazard over time and because there have been many recalled baby products (especially cribs), which are still being used.
According to a story by CNBC this morning, beginning Friday, Aug. 28, Toys R Us and Babies R Us will accept old cribs, car seats, strollers, high chairs and other baby products in exchange for a 20 percent discount on a new item at the store.
Reportedly, there is no limit to the number of products that can be redeemed, and a person doesn’t need to swap a like item for a like item.
The program is planned to run until Sept. 20, but according to Forbes, could be extended.
For a Toys R Us or Babies R Us near you, visit their Web sites.
Permalink | Comments (4) | Post your comment | Categories: Helpful information, Savings
TweetFree pizza today for Camaro owners
In celebration of “Papa” John Schnatter finding his long-lost Camaro, that he sold in 1983 and that led to the start of Papa John’s Pizza, Papa John’s will offer a free large, one-topping pizza today, Aug. 26, to all Camaro owners.
To redeem the free pizza, Camaro owners must arrive at their nearby Papa John’s restaurant in their Camaro to order and pick up the free pizza.
There is a limit of one pizza per Camaro, and one visit per Camaro. And the deal is for carryout only.
There are many Papa John’s in the Greater Dayton area. Visit the Papa John’s site to find the location nearest to you.
Permalink | Comments (5) | Post your comment | Categories: Free stuff
TweetE-B, Kohl’s have sales today
Elder-Beerman is having its August Storewide Sale today, Aug. 26, through Saturday, Aug. 29, offering 20 percent to 75 percent off storewide.
Consumers also can get $10 their next purchase when they spend $50 in the store.
Also today, Kohl’s is concluding its two-day sale, which has savings of up to 80 percent. Senior citizens get an extra 15 percent off during this sale as well.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetMaytag expands refrigerator recall
About 46,000 refrigerators have been added to the initial 1.6 million units that were recalled in March due to a serious fire hazard, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today, Aug. 25.
The refrigerators were made by Maytag and distributed under the product names of Maytag, Magic Chef, Performa by Maytag and Crosley brand refrigerators.
The recalls from March and today were issued due to an electrical failure in the relay, the component that turns on the refrigerator’s compressor, can cause overheating and pose a serious fire hazard.
According to the CPSC, Maytag has received 23 additional reports since the initial recall of refrigerator relay ignition, including four reports of property damage ranging from smoke damage to extensive kitchen damage.
Refrigerators with freezers on the bottom are not included in this recall.
For model numbers and more information, visit the CPSC site.
For more information from Maytag, call (866) 533-9817 or visit www.repair.maytag.com.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Recalls
TweetLingerie gets cheap(er) at Victoria’s Secret, Frederick’s
Even sex is having a hard time selling.
In a response to weakened consumer spending and profit losses by both companies, lingerie giants Victoria’s Secret and Frederick’s of Hollywood both announced this week that they were introducing less-expensive versions of their signature styles.
According to an item on Wallet Pop on Monday, Aug. 24, Victoria’s Secret will have cheaper undies on sale at its stores, and bras in the store’s new “everyday” collection will be around $30, rather than around $45.
The Columbus-based store also will have its Pink brand bras start out at two for $32, according to Wallet Pop.
Also, right now at the Victoria’s Secret site, online shoppers can get an extra 40 percent off any single clearance item, which can yield a savings of up to 80 percent off.
As for Frederick’s, according to the Los Angeles Business Journal, the company “plans to launch a line of sleepwear and daywear for young women that could be sold on the racks at Target, Kohl’s, Walmart and other discount retailers.”
The new offerings reportedly will be tamer than the skimpy items for which the Los Angeles-based brand is known.
Frederick’s also has deals on its site at present, offering up to 70 percent off lingerie, clothing, bras and shoes, among other unmentionables.
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TweetSwimsuits marked down up to 80% at Kohl’s
Although I had heard a rumor that swimsuits were marked down at Kohl’s up to 90 percent, a quick call around to area stores found that they were actually marked down 60 percent to 80 percent.
Fortunately, that is still a very good deal. It applies to suits for kids as well as adults.
Area Kohl’s stores are located at 6400 Wilmington Pike in Sugarcreek Twp., 2850 Centre Drive in Beavercreek, 8301 Old Troy Pike in Huber Heights, 1869 W. Main St. in Troy and 1600 N. Bechtle Ave. in Springfield.
Representatives said the sale will continue while supplies last.
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TweetDrugstores, Kroger top deals this week
Our Mommy Snacks coupon/ad matcher Andrea Deckard said the best deals this week, Aug. 23-29, are at the drugstores and Kroger.
“CVS has many ECB (Extra Care Bucks) deals that, with the right scenario, can be a great way to get a stockpile of shampoo, pain relievers or Glade products,” Deckard said. “The Kroger promotion is continuing, too — a great way to stock up on lunchbox necessities!”
Here are Deckard’s best area deals, found by matching the ads with the coupons available. For more on a specific store, click on the store name.
FREE Composition Book after ECB (until today, Aug. 25)
Make $1 (after ECB) when you get 2 Sense & Spray Kits. Complete list at Mommy Snacks.
$.79 Excedrin after coupons/ECB
Keebler Cookie Register Reward Deal. Mommy Snacks has the scenario.
FREE Reach Toothbrush
$.25 Tylenol
$.87 Fruit Snacks w/printable coupon
$.50 Ziploc Bags
$1.39 Healthy Choice Meal
The Buy 10 Items, get $5 off Instantly Promotion is going on this week. There are several items included in this promotion and several printable coupons to go along with the sales. Stop by Mommy Snacks for the complete list of printable coupon matches.
$.75 Yogurt
$.88 Cantaloupe
$.29 Dove Deodorant w/printable coupon
FREE Tide Trial Size Detergent
$.45 Reese’s Cups
$.99 Welch’s Juice w/printable coupon
$.17 Edward’s Pie Singles
$1 Kashi Cereal
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Andrea's best deals, Savings
TweetInfant deaths lead to Simplicity bassinets recall
Consumer Reports and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission are urging all parents to stop using 3-in-1 and 4-in-1 convertible “close sleeper” bassinets made by Simplicity. These bassinets also are sold with the Graco logo and a Winnie the Pooh motif.
The bassinet was initially recalled a year ago when two deaths were reported, but the CPSC has since learned of two more deaths, leading to the additional recall. There have been other reports of children trapped and later freed.
The CPSC said parents and caregivers are advised to return these bassinets to the retail store where they were purchased. All of the recalled bassinets can pose a danger to infants.
For more information and model numbers of the affected bassinets, visit the CPSC site.
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Recalls
TweetHere’s the Deal on the Golden Buckeye Card
The question for Ohio seniors is not so much “Do you have a Golden Buckeye Card?” but more, “Do you use your Golden Buckeye Card?”
Because, as I just learned, the Golden Buckeye Card can get you hundreds of dollars off thousands of goods and services throughout the Miami Valley.
The card is good for any Ohio resident 60 and older. It also is available to any resident who is totally or permanently disabled as determined by the Social Security Administration.
John Ratliff, the public information manager of the Ohio Department of Aging, said Ohio has roughly 2 million eligible cardholders.
“For ages 60 and older, the cards are automatically mailed to people within the month of their birthday if they have a valid driver’s license or I.D. card,” Ratliff said. “If they didn’t get their card that way, they can apply at a senior citizens’ center or a public library.”
Ratliff said the deals vary by region, and are based on a voluntary partnership with the businesses involved.
To find what deals are available in the Dayton area, you can search by county and city on the Web site. The “Dayton” selection contains Dayton as well as neighboring areas.
“The average discount is about 10 percent off a product or service,” Ratliff said, adding that about 16,000 businesses take part statewide. “But some (discount) a lot more than that. At state parks, cardholders can get up to 50 percent off at their camping sites.”
There is no fee for cardholders or businesses for the card.
“It applies to everything from international chains to mom and pops, corner stores, a little of everything,” Ratliff said.
And he does mean everything. On a quick scan of the pages of area discounts, I noted several restaurants, dentists, lawyers, jewelry stores, mechanics, hardware stores, opticians, florists, markets, veterinary clinics, beauty shops, senior housing complexes and so on.
For example, Capitol Dry Cleaners on 4413 W. Franklin St. in Bellbrook offers 15 percent off dry cleaning, the Miami Valley Career Technology Center on 6800 Hoke Road in Englewood has 20 percent off part-time courses, Play-Mor Bowling Lanes at 4901 Linden Ave. in Dayton has a 20 percent discount and Books & Co. at 350 E. Stroop Road in Kettering offers a 10 percent discount to cardholders.
Some discounts have stipulations, like just the initial dentist appointment for free or that the card is not to be used with other coupons, but most are just straight-forward cash off.
The Golden Buckeye Card also works in concert with Ohio Best Rx, a program that discounts uninsured prescriptions. It is good at multiple pharmacies, from big chains to small independents.
All of that is noted on the site as well.
Ratliff added that the Golden Buckeye Card, which was introduced in 1976, is the first and oldest senior discount card of its kind in the country.
For more information on how to get or use the card, or for businesses who want to take part, visit the Ohio Department of Aging Web site or call the agency at (800) 266-4346.
Deals in stores this week
Back-to-school sales on clothes continue at area stores this week, with Target, Kohl’s and Kmart leading the way.
Target is selling girls’ and boys’ jeans for $7 to $10, hoodies for $10 and shoes for all ages are buy one, get one 50 percent off.
Kohl’s has kids’ jeans for as low as $9.99, 50 percent off Mudd apparel and children’s shirts for as low as $6.
Kmart has kids’ shoes starting at $9.99, kids’ tops from $10 and kids’ jeans from $12.
At Elder-Beerman, back-to-school clothes are 20 percent to 70 percent off, with additional discounts for yellow dot items.
JCPenney is also playing the percentages, marking down its back-to-school items 50 percent.
And, at Dick’s Sporting Goods, men’s, women’s and kids’ shoes are up to 50 percent off as well.
Of note also is, if you don’t see what you want now, Labor Day or Columbus Day sales are right around the corner.
And, just in case all of these current and upcoming sales don’t remind you enough of the end of summer, Krispy Kreme is kicking off its annual sale of football doughnuts with coupons in today’s paper.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings, Sunday columns
TweetTips, reflections from longest garage sale
The World’s Longest Garage Sale, also known as the 127 Corridor Sale, took place early this month.
A couple of Dayton-area residents who visited 654-mile event, from West Unity, Ohio, to Gadsden, Ala., came back with more than their purchases. They also picked up some valuable tips for those who plan to attend the annual event in the future.
Before you go next year
Beavercreek resident Mary Rita Zeh, who was profiled for a story earlier this summer on this topic, visited the sale for the first time with her sister.
“We had read a lot of the articles that said ‘buy this and buy that’ before you go, but we had no trouble finding gas or restrooms,” Zeh said. “I imagine a lot of building has happened along 127 that wasn’t there 15 to 20 years ago.”
John M. Smith, a Bellbrook resident who attended the sale with his wife, said he wished they had brought more snacks and water.
“And I would recommend, for those who plan on staying the night, that you make a reservation ahead of time,” he said. “The hotels were fairly booked.
Zeh also said to figure out what you are looking for before you go, especially if you are looking for antiques.
Check the forecast
This year’s event, on Aug. 6-9, was sunny, humid and hot.
“We drank a lot of fluids and wore our hats all the time. A lot of people brought canopies,” Zeh said.
Smith added: “The garage sales in the shade were much more enticing.”
If the forecast calls for rain, Zeh said it would help to have a good vehicle for parking purposes.
“One or two places had a parking area, but mostly you are off-street parking or parking right on the street.”
What was for sale
“If you ever wanted clothes … there were racks and racks of clothes, and tarps with clothes laid out. Lots of kids’ things — clothes and toys and strollers,” Zeh said, adding that there also were old tools, electronics and furniture.
Vendors were stationed along the way as well, selling Depression glass, knives, guns, old linens — “anything you would find in an antique store.”
Zeh said a lot of the vendors seemed to be pricey, “But I found a lot of stuff (they were selling) that I have here at home. I thought ‘I’d better treat it a little better!’”
Smith agreed that some of the antiques were expensive, but said the regular garage sale items were similarly priced to what they are here.
Zeh said and her sister spent about $57 between them, on a couple of really old cookbooks, some pieces of material, unique teacups, some unusually shaped bottles and some porcelain dolls, among others.
“I don’t need to collect anything else — I was looking for useful items,” Zeh said. Smith said he and his wife spent less than $25 and got a tool belt, old bicycle and a big serving platter.
“One really big thing we saw someone buy was an old-fashioned sleigh that horses would draw,” Zeh said. “Can you imagine that in your front yard at Christmas?”
Best, worst parts
Talking to other people and the trip itself seemed to be the best part of the sale for our shoppers.
“It was interesting, and we enjoyed it. Two elderly gentlemen pumped our gas in Tennessee,” Zeh said.
Smith said it was a great experience overall, and he and his wife met many interesting people.
“The only negative might be that there is just too much,” he said. “It is hard to fathom covering it all in just four days.”
General tips
Wear durable, comfortable shoes.
If you are shopping for a large item, bring a vehicle that can transport it.
Dress for the weather.
Like with any garage sale, if you are shopping for a specific item, know what you are looking for and what would be a good price for that item.
Bring a friend — someone to drive safely and someone to scout out the sales.
Bring snacks and water.
Make hotel reservations, if needed.
Be ready to stop often, and know the travel time will be slow.
Take your time — some of the smaller sales can be as beneficial as the bigger ones.
For more information on next year’s event, visit www.127sale.com.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Consumer interest, Helpful information
TweetStarbucks news, like Starbucks, overhyped
Starbucks announced Thursday, Aug 20, that it would be cutting prices for the first time. But, before you run out there expecting to be served a bargain, keep reading — they are cutting prices 5 to 10 cents.
That’s right; buy five cups of coffee and you could save up enough to buy a gumball.
And, the company, which reportedly promised in April that it would join other restaurant operators in “fine-tuning pricing amid weak consumer demand,” is cutting (or shaving, as the case may be) the prices on just its small coffees and lattes.
According to Reuters, the prices for larger, more complex drinks could go the other direction — up:
“Prices for large, complex drinks such as frappuccinos and macchiatos could go up by as much as 25 cents in some markets, but on average prices will increase between 10 and 15 cents.”
Personally, I am not a big Starbucks fan. I did like their pumpkin spice latte, pretty much because I like anything pumpkin, for a time but their coffee is always too strong for my tastes (even the mild versions). Then again, I drink light beer, so take that as you will.
I recently tried Tim Hortons for the first time, after a poll I had on this blog earlier this summer voted them the best fast coffee in the Dayton area.
And I would have to agree with those poll results. Tim Hortons’ Iced Capp (iced cappuccino) is delicious and consistently not too strong or weak (unlike McDonald’s McCafe drinks).
Right now, Tim Hortons’ small Iced Capp $1.99, down from its original $2.29.
The comparable drink at Starbucks costs $2.80.
Permalink | Comments (5) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetDon’t buy an iPod now — updates loom
The Wallet Pop blog recently introduced me to another helpful site called MacRumors, which has information, guides and forums concerning all things Mac.
The Mac site has useful information this week for anyone in the market for an iPod. Due to the fact that there will be new models released next month, the site recommends you wait to buy until those updated versions are released.
This caution applies only to iPod Classic, Touch and Nano, but not to the iPod Shuffle, which reportedly is in midproduction cycle.
At any rate, if you in fact are a Mac, this is a great site to follow.
Permalink | Comments (2) | Post your comment | Categories: Cool new gadgets, Savings
TweetGet $15 off back-to-school clothes at JCPenney
The Bargainist had an item this morning, Aug. 21, about a bonus sale at JCPenney.
The site offers up the coupon code “29BBSOTS” for online purchases, which will get you an additional $10 off orders of $50 or more, and $15 off orders of $75 or more.
If you are shopping in stores, the site also has printable coupons to make and take. This sale ends Saturday.
And, to get the biggest in-store savings, note that there also will be doorbuster sales from 3 to 10 p.m. today and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at area JCPenney locations.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Back-to-school, Savings
TweetMorris, E-B having huge furniture sales this weekend
Morris Home Furnishings and Ashley Furniture Homestore are closed until 5 p.m. today, Aug. 21, busily marking down everything in the store for what they are calling their Giant $10 Million Sell-off Sale.
Among their discounted prices are recliners as low as $249, sofas starting at $299, a Sealy Pillowtop queen mattress set for $383 and 42-inch HDTVs for as low as $699.
The stores will reopen tonight at 5, and the sale will go through Monday. Morris stores are at 2121 Harshman Road and 5695 Wilmington Pike.
Ashley outlets are at 161 Mall Woods Drive near the Dayton Mall, 2850 Centre Drive near Fairfield Commons and at 1690 N. Bechtle Ave. in Springfield.
Elder-Beerman also is having a sale this weekend at its Salem Furniture Clearance Center, offering savings of 65 percent to 80 percent on mattresses, area rugs, and furniture throughout the house.
The E-B sale runs through Sunday. That store is at 5370 Salem Ave.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
Tweet1.5M DVD players sold at Walmart recalled
About 1.5 million Durabrand DVD Players sold at Walmart stores have been recalled due to fire hazard, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today, Aug. 20.
Walmart has received 12 reports of DVD players overheating, five of which have resulted in fires that caused property damage, the CPSC said.
This recall involves a single DVD player with a remote control.
It is recommended that consumers should stop using the product and return it to the nearest Walmart for a full refund.
For more info, call (800) 925-6278 or visit www.walmartstores.com.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Recalls
TweetOld Navy socks for $1, shirts for $3
Thanks to a great local bargain blogger I just met, Oakwood resident Amy Deal of www.fromBottle2Box.com, here is another great Saturday offer from Old Navy.
This Saturday, Aug. 22, Old Navy is selling kids’ and toddler socks for $1, and adult basic T-shirts for $3.
There is a limit of five each so the aptly named Deal advises you bring the whole family to stock up — and arrive early.
“Our Old Navy opens at 9 (a.m.) My daughters and I have found that if we are there by 8:00-8:15 we are usually first in line. We bring along coffee, water, mobile phone games and the newspaper.”
Deal, a 42-year-old married mother of three who started her blog in June 2008, has many other great deals on her site including ways to get a free sewing machine, free Victoria’s Secret lotion, free iTunes, etc. — and that is just from the last couple days.
Also, Deal also has the dirt on which boxed wines (which are much cheaper than bottled, and were in fact the springboard for her blog) are the best for your money.
I will have more on Deal and her deals in the coming weeks.
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetFedEx offers packing, shipping, tips for college kids
FedEx announced Wednesday, Aug. 19, that it is ready, willing and able to help college students pack and ship their way to college and save time (with the packing) and money (by advising you how to do it yourself).
Four Dayton-area FedEx locations can assist you in packing: 7275 Poe Ave. in Dayton, 6 S. Ludlow St. in Dayton, 1189 Miamisburg-Centerville Road in Centerville and 2646 Col. Glenn Highway in Fairborn.
For an idea of the FedEx packaging rates, the guys over at the Centerville location said to pack a 24-inch, nonfragile cube box, it costs $12.99.
For fragile shipping, that same box costs $22.99 to pack.
Also, FedEx sells laptop boxes, specially made to protect the laptop, for $10, or they can package the laptop for $22.99.
If you want to save money and pack-it-yourself, the company notes these tips that can help:
Do your homework. Contact your school and find the correct delivery address and when packages can be received.
Prioritize. Note which belongings you will need immediately, and those you can live without for a week. FedEx Ground, they note, will get your stuff there in one to five business days. For overnight delivery, there is FedEx Express.
Be resourceful and green. Keep a 2-inch cushion of padding around the inside of the box. Pack fragile items with towels or shirts. If you shake a packaged box, the contents should not move. Double-boxing is another way to keep objects safe.
Get crafty. Wrap and tape irregularly shaped items, put plastic bags over items that could be affected by water before boxing and (if you still have it) ship your laptop in its original box.
Sealing counts. Before sealing the boxes, include an extra address label, just in case the outer label comes off. Use packing tape (not masking, duct or cellophane tape) that is at least 2 inches wide. Tape evenly across flaps and seams.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Back-to-school, Savings
TweetBack-to-school deals are available today
For those of you who want (or need) to get their back-to-school shopping done in the next couple days, here is a roundup of some of the best deals to be found in the Miami Valley today, Aug. 20.
For school supplies
As noted in an earlier post, Walmart has had the best overall prices on school supplies, with Target and Meijer among the cheapest as well.
As of today, Walmart has one-subject notebooks for as low as 15 cents, five-subject notebooks for $4 and 1-inch binders for $2.50.
Target this week has a 24-pack of pencils for 69 cents, a four-pack of dry erase markers for $2 and composition books for just 50 cents.
Target, which also has an awesome selection of backpacks, has their Trans by Jansport backpacks for a new low this week as well — $20.
And, speaking of backpacks, Meijer marked down all of its licensed backpacks this week 40 percent off.
Meijer also appears to have gone school supply Cra-Z, offering Cra-Z-Art Markers (12-pack) for 85 cents, Cra-Z-Art Crayons (24-pack) for 19 cents and Cra-Z-Art Colored Pencils (12-pack) for 49 cents.
For back-to-school clothes
An earlier article went into which stores had good deals on kids clothes, and some of those bargains — like from Plato’s Closet and Once Upon a Child — still apply. Others, due to the nature of sales, have expired.
As of today, Kohl’s has kids’ clothes for up to 60 percent off, including girls’ dresses starting at $7.70 and boys’ graphic T-shirts starting at around $6.
Kohl’s also has jeans for juniors and guys for between $19.99 and $24.99. And the backpacks at Kohl’s, which has a good selection, are also marked down up to 55 percent.
Elder-Beerman has savings of 20 percent to 75 percent off for back-to-school, as well as items “never on sale for less.”
And, although I’m sure that is true, the deals they note don’t seem as extreme as they sound. The store has boys’ Ruff Hewn shirts for around $9 and girls’ Miss Attitude shirts for around $8, but I didn’t see any other incredible deals of note.
Now, JCPenney, which also touts 75 percent off deals today, looks to have the edge on the big department store savings, with girls’ Arizona T-shirts and tank tops for $4.99, guys tops starting at $9.99, and mix and match tops and jeans for juniors for buy one, get one for $1.
JCPenney also has all uniform polo shirts for $7.99.
Old Navy has continued its Class of $10 sale, with items for back-to-school for $10 or less.
And Target has Mossimo plaid tops for juniors for $15 and Mossimo dresses for $19.99; girls’ leggings for $5, tops for $12 and jeans for $12; boys’ shirts for $7 and Levi’s for $16; and guys’ graphic T-shirts for $10, graphic hoodies for $20 and Levi’s for $21.99.
Also, if you are still shopping for college stuff, Target also is having a big college tech sale today, with chairs, TVs, refrigerators, pillows and more on sale. It also is a good sale for anyone not going to college, but possibly looking to update their digs.
Many of these sales will be good through Saturday. For a few more deals starting next week, check back at this blog on Sunday.
Happy school shopping!
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Back-to-school, Savings
TweetCredit card rules change today
The first phase of the new Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure (CARD) Act goes into effect today, Aug. 20.
With this act, credit card users reportedly will be armed with more rights.
According to MSN Money, under the first phase, consumers must be given:
— At least 45 days’ warning of changes to their credit card accounts. Currently, only 15 days’ notice is required unless customers default on their accounts, in which case interest-rate increases can go into effect immediately.
— At least 21 days to pay their monthly credit card statements without threat of late fees.
— The right to opt out of interest-rate and fee increases and the right to cancel their accounts while paying off the balances under the old, lower interest rates. Currently, issuers offer opt-out options at their discretion, and it is not a consumer right.
Reuters also notes that “Some of the biggest changes to the credit card industry look to limit the ability of companies to impose fees, raise interest rates or sell credit card to students, but those will not go into effect until February.”
On the down side, though, as noted by a Bloomberg news report Wednesday, is that Americans with the best credit may be hurt in the first phase of the law since lenders are reportedly raising rates across the board.
Bloomberg said, as noted by BillShrink.com, “the average lowest card rate is about 11.25 percent, up from 8.85 percent in January. The average for less credit-worthy customers rose to 15.75 percent in July, from 13.75 percent in January.”
For more information about this and other credit card matters, visit CreditCards.com.
Permalink | Comments (6) | Post your comment | Categories: Consumer interest
TweetJoin clubs, get free makeup
ShopSmart;) magazine, a product of Consumer Reports, has a nice compilation today, Aug. 19, of the various makeup clubs (based on brand) that you can join and get free stuff.
The brands include Clinique, Sephora and Lancome, among many others.
And, on the makeup deals and information front, here are some other sites that could be of use:
Faith’s Makeup Blog, which is part of the About.com family, talks about tips and deals on makeup.
And, on the couponing section of About.com, there is a helpful list of ways to compare prices of makeup foundations.
BeautyTicket.com promises discounts of up to 85 percent off name brands.
Deals.com has their list of the best makeup deals online.
If you like Mary Kay Cosmetics, their Web site has a section on beauty on a budget, and notes 90 products that are $10 or less.
And, from our own buddy Mommy Snacks, there is a L’oreal and CVS deal of note on her site today.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Free stuff, Savings
TweetBlack & Decker recalls thermal coffeemakers
Black & Decker Thermal Coffeemakers, largely sold at Walmart, were recalled Tuesday, Aug. 18, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Reportedly, the machines try a little too hard to make that coffee hot, and can overheat and melt, thus posing a burn hazard to consumers.
This recall involves Black & Decker 8-cup programmable thermal coffeemakers. They were sold at Walmart and small retail stores nationwide from April 2008 through July 2009 for between $50 and $65.
The CPSC recommends consumers immediately stop using the product and contact Applica to receive a free replacement.
For more information, call Applica at (866) 699-4595 or visit www.acprecall.com.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Recalls
TweetFree paper with ink purchase at Staples
According to our savvy deal-spotter Karen Baird, Staples is offering incentives to buy HP ink multipacks.
“Through Saturday, Aug. 22, you can get a free ream of HP Multipurpose paper when you buy an HP ink multipack. This offer is good online and in stores,” she said.
Also, if you’re a Staples Rewards member (free to join), you get 10 percent of your ink or toner purchase back in Staples Rewards, and an additional $3 in Staples Rewards for each empty cartridge you return to the store for recycling.
And orders of $50 or more ship for free at Staples.com.
Baird also offers this savings example:
Ink multipack (HP 23/45) = about $8 savings (compared to buying individual cartridges)
Free ream of paper = $5 savings
10 percent back in Staples Rewards = about $7 savings
Recycle 2 empty ink cartridges = $6 savings
Total savings = more than $25 (plus free shipping for online orders)
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetFDA recalls several ADHD drugs
According to Consumer Reports on Monday, Aug. 17, several drugs used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder have been recalled by the Food & Drug Administration because they “could contain too much active ingredient.”
CR lists the affected drugs as Dextroamphetamine Saccharate (also known as Dexedrine or DextroStat), Amphetamine Aspartate, and Dextroamphetamine Sulfate and Amphetamine Sulfate (also known as Adderall).
For more information on the lots and description of drugs involved, visit the CR site.
If you have these medications, it is recommended that you stop taking them and return it to your pharmacy or mail order pharmacy as soon as possible.
For more information, call Barr Laboratory at (888) 742-5578.
Permalink | Comments (3) | Post your comment | Categories: Recalls
TweetPhoto center in midst of 7 days, 7 deals
The Walgreens Photo Center, also apparently known as W Photo, is running a special this week called “7 days, 7 deals.”
The special for today, Aug. 18, is a free 11-by-14 poster.
Sunday they offered a free 8-by-10 and Monday they had 25 4-by-6 photos for 25 cents.
Apryl Pilolli, a colleague here at the paper, spotted this deal and added that the Web site I Heart Wags (I believe Wags is for Walgreens) has a list of what freebies will be offered for the remainder of the week.
That site said the deals later in the week will include free photo clings, more free prints, a scrapbook page for 99 cents and everyday photo books for 50 percent off.
And, if you also “heart” Walgreens, that site has myriad deals at the store, as well as links to similar sites for CVS and Rite Aid.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetFashion Bug adds styles, lowers prices
According to a recently released statement from Fashion Bug President Jay Levitt, the stores will be offering lower prices — “as much as $5 or $10 lower than last year on the same or similar styles.”
Levitt added that the sizes at Fashion Bug will range from 6 to 30, with no increase in price for larger sizes, and that the stores will expand their style offerings to include “work, play, dressing up or hanging out” clothes.
The Fashion Bug Web site also has some additional deals right now, including 60 percent off clearance prices and 20 percent off all orders through Aug. 29 when you use coupon code “776294704.”
Area Fashion Bug stores are at the Drug Emporium Plaza, 5586 Springboro Pike, and at Fairfield Crossing, 3320 New Germany-Trebein Road.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetSee a new movie today for $6 at area theaters
I mentioned this awhile back when I first started this blog, but this deal bears repeating.
On Tuesdays, for a limited time, select National Amusement theaters have what they call Bargain Tuesdays, offering all tickets to all shows, all day for $6 each.
This deal includes IMAX and Cinema de Lux Directors Halls with no premium fees, but is not good on holidays.
Local National Amusement theaters include Cinema de Lux at The Greene and the Showcase Cinemas.
Regularly priced tickets for adults can be $7.50 to $10.50, or up to $13.50 for 3-D.
Last week, my husband and I saw “Julie and Julia” for $12 total at The Greene. (It was great, by the way.)
Bargain Tuesdays isn’t the only deal being offered by National Amusement theaters.
The theaters also have:
Silver Screen Classics (good at Showcase outlets, but not The Greene), which has “classic” films from the 1930s through the ’80s on Mondays on the big screen. Admission is $2.
And Senior Wednesdays, which is all shows, all day for $4.50 for patrons 60 and older.
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetFree kids’ meals at area restaurants
Cheap is good, but free is better.
That is not a new concept, but what is new is that more and more restaurants are offering free food to remain competitive in this slumping economic environment.
According to data from market research company the NPD Group in July, total restaurant industry traffic declined 2.6 percent for this year’s spring quarter versus the same quarter last year. The group said it is the sharpest decline in industry traffic since 1981.
The research also found that consumers, especially households with children, cut back their visits to all segments of restaurants.
To combat that trend, many area restaurants are offering free kids’ meals.
On Monday, Aug. 17, IHOP became the first nationwide chain to offer free kids’ meals from 4 to 10 p.m. seven days a week (the drink is not included). That offer runs through Sept. 13.
The closest restaurants are in Mason and West Chester, with several others in Cincinnati near I-75.
The IHOP deal, like its competitors, requires the purchase of an adult meal and is for those younger than 12 (or 10, in some cases).
In the Dayton area, most restaurants that have a kids-eat-free deal offer them on certain days (Tuesdays seem to be the most popular), during restricted hours (evenings are best) or for a limited time.
The deals often vary by location, so it is recommended that patrons call ahead to ensure the restaurant they intend to visit is offering that deal.
Here are some of area restaurants that offer free kids’ meals, and when they are available:
Fazoli’s has free kids’ meals on Saturdays and Sundays through August, and has 99 cent meals on Tuesday nights.
Moe’s Southwest Grill, which has a location in Beavercreek, offers free kids meals after 4 p.m. Tuesdays.
W.G. Grinders offers a free kids’ meal every day when you buy an adult combo meal. Beef O’ Brady’s has the kids-eat-free deal all day Tuesdays.
Captain D’s offers free kids’ meals on Thursdays, and patrons can get two free kids’ meals for each adult dinner purchased.
Champps, which has a restaurant in Centerville, also offers two free kids’ meals with the purchase of one adult meal. That deal is good after 4 p.m. Tuesdays.
Denny’s offers two kids’ meals per adult and has two days a week to get this deal — 4 to 10 p.m. Tuesdays and Saturdays. The area Denny’s is on Main Street in Dayton.
Gold Star Chili has free kids’ meals Tuesdays for dine-in only. This is only for the Gold Star locations that are free-standing and not in a mall.
At Lonestar Steakhouse, kids can eat free all day Tuesdays. This is another one that allows you to get two free kids meals per adult meal, and is for dine-in only.
Perkins Restaurant and Bakery offers free kids’ meals, one per adult meal, from 4 to 10 p.m. Tuesdays.
Steak n’ Shake has a deal in which you get a free kids’ meal for every $8 you spend on Saturdays and Sundays.
Tropical Smoothie Cafe offers a kids-eat-free deal on Sundays with the purchase of a Paradise Combo for $9.99.
Locally, many restaurants offer discounts for kids’ meals, but the Miami Valley Restaurant Association only knew of one that offered them for free — La Piazza at 2 N. Market St. in Troy.
La Piazza had been running the free meal deal earlier this year and will resume it in September. Patrons will get a free kids’ meal, with the purchase of an adult entree, for children younger than 10 from 4 to 9 p.m. Sundays.
Know of any other local restaurants that have free kids’ meals? Let us know below.
There also is a Web site, called KidsEatFree.com, that is updated with the latest free kids’ meal deals according to where you live.
Permalink | Comments (9) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetSears brings back Christmas Club concept
Sears, which brought back their layaway program last holiday season, is taking another spin in the way-back machine with the idea of an old-fashioned Christmas Club.
According to The Associated Press, Sears has started a program that allows shoppers to put aside money on a regular basis through Nov. 14 to add value to its Christmas Club card.
Kmart, another member of the Sears Holdings Corp., also will have this offer. (Thanks for the heads up from the reader below.)
When activated between now and Oct. 31, card holders can earn a 3 percent reward, up to a maximum of $100, based on the card’s value.
Consumers will be able to activate or add value to their cards by visiting any Sears or Kmart location.
Permalink | Comments (2) | Post your comment | Categories: Holiday deals
TweetSummer closeout sale at local tanning salon, boutique
Dolphin’s Cove Tanning Salon — a Kettering store that offers tanning, a boutique and gift items — is having an inventory reduction sale, with summer specials of up to 50 percent off.
Kay March, a graduate of Kettering Fairmont High School and Wright State University, opened Dolphin’s Cove in November.
“When I opened (the tanning salon), I decided to do a boutique and gift shop with it, with T-shirts, beach towels, candles, stationary and things like that,” March said.
March said she has since decided to take the business in another direction, and is moving the inventory from the boutique and gift shop for bargain prices.
For example, there are T-shirts marked down from $29 to $15 and bathing suits that can be purchased for around $15. From the business end, there are a couple of TVs that are between $75 and $150, and some magazine stands that are being sold for $100.
March added that most prices are negotiable.
There are also specials on tanning that are up to 50 percent off.
Dolphin’s Cove Tanning Salon is at 3341 E. Stroop Road across from The Greene. Hours are 1 to 8 p.m. daily, but March said appointments can be made from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
For more information on inventory and prices, call (937) 567-8800.
Permalink | Comments (4) | Post your comment | Categories: Local business
TweetOnline deal roundup includes Old Navy, NY&Co., WSJ subscriptions
DealHack, a very handy online deal-finding site, put out a roundup today, Aug. 17, of its best active deals.
They include the following, and can be accessed directly on the DealHack site.
80% off + 4 Weeks Free: Wall Street Print & Online Subscriptions at WSJ
Save Up to 40% off Labor Day Hotel Stays at Hotels.com
Buy One Pair Women’s Pants & Get One Pair Free at NY & Co
Clearance Sale: Up to 80% off Sports & Casual Footwear at EMS
Save Up to 60% off Women’s Sports Sale Clothing at Athleta
Kids Sale: Save Up to 40% off + Get Free Shipping at Old Navy
Extra 25% off All Shoes, Apparel, & Gear Store-Wide at Puma (Final day)
Save an Extra 15% off Most Shoes Store-Wide at Shoes.com
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetSummer clearance sales among top deals this week at area stores
Summer clearance sales are feeling the heat at area stores.
“Now is the time to take advantage of summer items going on clearance,” according to Andrea Deckard of Mommy Snacks.
She said she her family always purchases clearance items at the end of the season for use the following year.
“(This way), we are never left paying full price for seasonal items!”
Here are the biggest deals she found by comparing the store discounts with coupons available this week, Aug. 16-22.
Click on the store name for more from that store and more information on those deals listed.
Several FREE after Extra Care Bucks items for Back to School. The complete list is at Mommy Snacks.
$2 Purex Laundry Detergent
$.99 Bic Soleil Razor
FREE Soft Soap Nutri Serum after Register Rewards
Kotex Feminine Products Register Reward Deal. Stop by Mommy Snacks for a scenario of how it works.
$.60 Hefty One Zip Bags
FREE Lysol Wipes and Neutra Air Spray
$.48 Tony’s Pizzas w/printable coupon.
$.70 Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks
The Buy 10 Items, get $5 off Instantly Promotion is going on this week. There are several items included in this promotion and several printable coupons to go along with the sales. Stop by Mommy Snacks for the complete list of printable coupon matches.
$.50 Biscuits
$.50 Cereal
$1 Activia Yogurt. Rebate available at Mommy Snacks.
$5.99 Luvs Diapers
$1.79 Axe Shower Gel
$.74 Pull Ups Wipes w/printable coupon.
$.50 Biscuits
$.83 Fiber One Yogurt
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Andrea's best deals
Tweet$200 gift cards awarded today at Bob Evans
As noted last week, gift cards and prizes aplenty will be given away at the reopening of the Bob Evans at 1981 Harner Drive in Xenia today, Aug. 17.
The first 25 people in line will get $200 gift cards, the next 25 will receive $100 gift cards, the remaining 50 will get $50 gift cards, and other gift cards worth $5, $10, $20 and $50 will be given out throughout the day.
In all $12,000 in prizes and gift cards will be handed out, according to the company’s press release.
The Xenia restaurant opens at 6 a.m. today, and there will be an opening ceremony before that.
You can follow today’s event on Twitter at @BobEvansFarms, with the #BEF hashtag.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Free stuff
TweetHome Depot coupons offer up to 50% off
As The Bargainist informed us this week, Home Depot is offering some coupon deals for the next few weeks that truly are a bargain.
The site lists coupons for up to 25 percent off select lighting & ceiling fans (expires Sept. 30), up to 50 percent off select bath products (expires Sept. 9) and up to 50 percent off select patio furniture sets (expires Sept. 2).
On the Home Depot site, there also are “Internet specials” similar to these coupons.
The Bargainist also mentions another Home Depot deal involving coupon codes that reportedly expires Wednesday, Aug. 19.
For that one, it says to enter coupon code SUMMERSAVE98 to knock $25 off orders of $250 or more, or code SUMMERSAVE99, for online orders.
Permalink | Comments (18) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetMeijer having one-day super sale today
From 6 a.m. to midnight today, Aug. 15, Meijer is having its one-day super sale.
The sale includes Back To School Buck coupons of $3 to $15 off general merchandise or health and beauty care depending on how much you spend.
There are also food deals such as half off Meijer chunk cheese and Lay’s potato chips for $1.79 (save $2.20), and buy two get one free off select Always, Tampax and Pearl feminine products, among many others.
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TweetLittle Tikes workshops, trucks recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced this week that Little Tikes Workshop Sets and Trucks have been recalled.
The workshop sets and trucks reportedly have oversized, plastic toy nails that can pose a choking hazard to young children.
The CPSC said least one 11-month-old boy had a toy nail get lodged in his throat. (He was hospitalized and made a full recovery.)
The sets were sold online at www.littletikes.com and other sites, and at stores such as Toys R Us from March 1994 through June 2009 for between $25 and $100.
For more information, contact Little Tikes (a Hudson, Ohio, company) at (800) 791-2737 or www.littletikes.com.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Recalls
TweetLower lead limit for products, harsher penalties go into effect Friday
The new requirements for the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008, which restricts the amount of lead allowed in children’s products and toys, go into effect Friday, Aug. 14.
The CPSC said that, effective Friday:
— The amount of acceptable lead in products, toys and coating materials (such as paint), have been further reduced in an effort to protect children from exposure. The lead limit for products will be 300ppm and paint will be 90ppm.
— Civil penalties for violating that lead limit increase to a maximum of $100,000 per violation and up to a maximum of $15 million for a related series of violations.
— Manufacturers must place permanent tracking labels on any consumer product primarily intended for children 12 and younger made on or after Aug. 14, 2009.
— Catalog advertising for certain toys and games intended for use by children from 3 to 6 years old must have warnings regarding potential choking hazards to children younger than 3. All catalogs and other printed materials distributed on or after Aug. 9, 2009, regardless of when they were printed, must also include the appropriate warnings.
Practically since the CPSIA’s implementation in February, it has been under attack for its broad terms and potential to put many companies, resale stores and crafters — not to mention anyone holding a garage sale — out of business.
Since February, many groups — including CPSIA Central and Reform CPSIA — and businesses have rallied against the act in an effort to make it workable. No one is arguing with its intent.
Since then, the CPSC has made numerous clarifications and revisions. However, there is likely still a great deal of work ahead.
For more information about the act, the subsequent clarifications and the latest news, visit the CPSC site.
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Consumer interest, Recalls
TweetJetBlue offers all-you-can-fly deal, pet deal
Planning to fly a lot next month? Then this might be a deal for you.
According to CNN Money, JetBlue Airlines announced Wednesday, Aug. 12, that it will offer an “all-you-can-jet” pass to fly an unlimited amount within a one-month span for $599.
CNN quoted a company release in saying: “Pass holders can fly to any of JetBlue’s 56 destinations between Sept. 8 and Oct. 8, with no seat limitations or blackout dates.”
They note that a similar promotion from Air Canada in 2007 cost $1,657, but added that since “JetBlue flights already slashed as low as $100, customers might have to fly 6 or 7 times in a month before they break even.”
Another JetBlue deal of note next month concerns pets, according to a story by the Los Angeles Times.
The airline reportedly teamed up with Petco to offer four-legged customers a 50 percent fare discount.
On flights from Sept. 1-30, the usual $100-per-flight fee for dogs and cats will be $50, with this discount.
The Times noted that to receive the discount, flights must be booked by Aug. 31, and customers must use a promotional code that can be found at area Petco stores or online at www.petco.com/letsgo.
Reservations can be made at (800) JETBLUE (538-2583).
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetOld Navy tank tops $2 on Saturday
Old Navy has been running some great back to school specials, including their Class of $10 sale, that includes T-shirts, hoodies and jeans for $10.
This sale is in stores and online.
On Saturday, Aug. 15, the store will add to that promotion by having its rib-knit women’s tank tops for $2.
That sale is in stores only, and there is a limit of five tanks per customer.
Also on the Old Navy news front, the More With Less Today site had an informative post Wednesday explaining how to get some great Old Navy coupons online.
The site mentions that there are several ways to get coupons and discounts, and one is by way of the Web site of those funny (I think they’re funny) claymation models. (Yes, they have their own site.)
The coupons (which reportedly are refreshed Thursdays and Fridays, so check it out today) can be up to $75 off of $100 purchase and $50 off of $100, and more.
The challenge of these coupons is you have to find them on the site, and I wasn’t so good at it. Sometimes you can cheat and find sites (like More With Less offers a way in), that tell you where to look.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Back-to-school, Savings
TweetGroups making it easier to help Dayton-area students in need
Between state budget cuts affecting schools and layoffs affecting area families, many area organizations have stepped up to help get students the supplies and gear they need for the upcoming school year.
As mentioned in an earlier post, Kroger has teamed up with Dayton’s Crayons to Classrooms to collect school supplies for Dayton-area students in need this month.
This effort involves 20 Kroger stores throughout the Greater Dayton area that have provided school supply collection barrels throughout August.
Staples, which is working in conjunction with DoSomething.org, is another store raising money and collecting supplies.
The area Staples drive benefits the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Youth Center.
Customers can donate either $1 or school supplies at the stores through Sept. 19.
The City of Dayton Recreation and Youth Services is holding an event this weekend geared toward getting school supplies into the hands of students who need them, as well.
Youth Services is working with BJKids91 in holding the Back-to-School Barber and Stylist Cut-Off Sunday, Aug. 16, at the Dayton Convention Center. This event will help Dayton Public School students in kindergarten through eighth grade get what they need this school year.
Sunday’s event requires vouchers, and all have been claimed.
Kenton Curtis, community involvement adviser for Youth Services, said that demand illustrates the increased need this year.
“Normally, we have the vouchers available for two weeks,” Curtis said. “But this year, the vouchers ran out within one week.”
For those who would like to donate school supplies for this event, they can drop them off at the convention center between 8 and 11:30 a.m. Sunday, according to Tawana McKinney.
McKinney, who is helping organize the event, said all supplies will go to Dayton Public School students who need them.
She added that the Dayton Urban League also is collecting supplies, at 907 W. Fifth St. Monday through Friday, for Dayton students. Items for elementary school-age children are in most demand, she said.
Another organization that helped area kids get needed school supplies this year is Graceworks Lutheran Services, which assisted 50 Montgomery County students with the help of 15 local Lutheran churches.
The students, ranging from prekindergarten through 12th grade, are from families for whom Graceworks provides year-round case management on their way to self-sufficiency.
“We want to help children to be well-equipped for succeeding in school,” said Ann Warner, program manager at Graceworks Outreach Services. “It’s one less thing for parents to worry about.
One of those churches is Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Kettering.
“We collected school supplies and ‘adopted’ some kids to help them get clothes and uniforms for school this year,” said Terri Morrison, Good Shepherd office manager.
Morrison added that, although that church’s school supply drive has concluded, “We also do a similar drive at Christmas.”
And, in Tipp City, a new School Supply Program was launched this summer by Tipp-Monroe Community Services.
This program collects donations from area businesses, churches or private citizens for students of all ages who are less fortunate.
Representatives from the community services group said donated supplies and supplies purchased with donations will go to the schools, and that the students’ privacy will be ensured.
To take part, contact Tipp-Monroe Community Services at (937) 667-8631.
If you know of any other groups that are accepting donations, comment below. If you are able, this is a good year to help out kids in need.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Back-to-school, Consumer interest, Good ideas
TweetComplete pair of glasses being sold for $40, frames for $10 at local store
Downtown Dayton Optical, which opened in April at 112 E. Third St., is selling frames for $10, a complete pair of glasses for as low as $40 and two pairs of glasses for $60.
The eyewear store is owned by Dayton resident and optician Kevin Harrington. It reportedly has more than a thousand frames in stock and offers free tinting.
“The prices for prescription eyewear have gotten crazy,” Harrington said, “and there are extremely few options available for most families — especially if they don’t have insurance.”
Harrington does not accept insurance, and said he believes that his prices negate the need for insurance.
“High prices do not equal quality,” he said.
Shayla Hambly, the office manager at the store, added that they try to deal fairly with people.
“We don’t want to dig into pockets of people, especially these days,” Hambly said.
Downtown Dayton Optical is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays.
Customers need to bring in a prescription from an optometrist or ophthalmologist to be fitted with glasses.
For more information, call (937) 461-2020.
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TweetRoundup of back-to-school savings tips
To supplement some of the budget-friendly information on back-to-school that has been published on this blog of late, here are a couple lists from other Web sites that could be of use.
The first is from Wallet Pop, which recommends looking online for additional savings:
— Check for student discounts. Some stores, such as Apple, offer exclusive discounts for students.
— Wait for Labor Day or Columbus Day sales for apparel if you can wait that long. Sales are usually bigger.
— Buy textbooks one at a time online. This will allow coupons to be used for individual books, instead of for an entire order. Used book sellers Alibris (which right now has a sale of up to 80 percent off) and eCampus have online coupons. Just be sure the offer includes free shipping.
— Buy refurbished. Dell, for example, has online coupons for refurbished or “factory reconditioned” computers, along with new computers.
— Buy in bulk. Staples and other such stores offer free shipping and sell school supplies at bulk discounts.
And here are some more tips from The Debt Diva:
— Recycle last year’s supplies.
— Make sure to follow the supply list provided by teachers to avoid unnecessary purchases.
— Avoid purchasing your supplies from office supply retailers. Stick to discount retailers.
— Take advantage of online sales. Don’t forget about Bargainist, eBay and Craigslist when it comes to school supply shopping.
— Make your purchases early to make sure you get what you need and at cheaper prices.
— Pack a lunch. The average cost of a student’s lunch at school can range from $2.90-$3.25. That’s not including additional snacks. With some smart planning, you can pack your child’s lunch for less money, and it will be more nutritious.
— Avoid purchasing full-price, fall clothing items that start appearing on racks in July.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Back-to-school, Savings
TweetBob Evans to give away $200 gift cards
Talk about rise and shine.
As reported late last month, the Bob Evans restaurant in Xenia is reopening at 1981 Harner Drive Monday, Aug. 17, with a new “Home of Homestyle” design and a bunch of other great features.
But the feature Bob Evans just announced this week was that, on that opening day, the Bob Evans’ Rise & Shine team will hand out $12,000 worth of free prizes and Bob Evans gift cards — including $200 gift cards to the first 25 people in line that day.
Also, the next 25 will receive $100 gift cards, the remaining 50 will get $50 gift cards, and other gift cards worth $5, $10, $20 and $50 will be given out throughout the day.
The Xenia restaurant opens at 6 a.m., and the opening ceremony is scheduled to take place prior to that.
For those of you who don’t want to try for a gift card but are still interested in how events unfold (as am I), the Bob Evans folks said you can follow the day’s events online, in real time, via Twitter. The restaurant is @BobEvansFarms, with the #BEF hashtag.
Permalink | Comments (14) | Post your comment | Categories: Free stuff, Savings
TweetKnow the pitfalls of outlet shopping
Here is an interesting perspective, especially for those of us who live near a recently opened outlet mall.
The Consumerist had an excerpt Tuesday, Aug. 11, from Ellen Rupel Shell’s new book, “Cheap: the High Cost of Discount Culture.”
The book makes the case that outlet malls aren’t the bargain-hunters’ dream that they are sold as.
Among her points:
— Manufacturers’ suggested retail prices are a joke, often wholly fabricated to give consumers impression that they are getting bargains.
— Outlet malls are based in the middle of nowhere not only because the real estate is cheaper but as part of their marketing strategy. When consumers have to drive an hour or two to shop, shopping becomes a day-long venture, a veritable investment.
— Many stores — Coach, The Gap, Brooks Brothers, Ann Taylor, Donna Karan — produce lower-quality merchandise specifically for their outlets (according to her book).
When I visited the Cincinnati Premium Outlets mall at its opening, I did find deals for my family, but I was helped by the fact that I have to comparison shop for my job.
I can see where, if you ascribe to the general mantra that “it’s an outlet store, so it must be a bargain,” that shoppers can, as Shell’s book notes, “spend nearly 80 percent more money at a bare bones outlet mall than they would at a fully loaded regional mall.”
So, even if a site purports to be a bargain center, make sure you shop around to make sure you are getting a discount. With that knowledge, you have the best chance of getting a good deal no matter where you are.
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TweetDid you attend the longest garage sale?
Were you one of the Dayton-area residents who attended the World’s Longest Garage Sale, also known as the 127 Corridor Sale, earlier this month?
The event — which travels 654 miles from West Unity, Ohio, to Gadsden, Ala. — took place from Aug. 6-9 this year.
If you attended, we would love to hear how it went for an upcoming story. We hope to offer tips for those who want to attend next year’s event, to which the Web site is already counting down.
So, let us know what you learned, what you found and if you had fun by commenting below or e-mailing me. Your hard-earned experiences could provide the best advice for those who plan to attend that sale, as well as others, in the future.
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TweetGet 20% off at CVS online today
The savings site Buxr noted today, Aug. 11, is the last day of an online deal being offered by CVS/Pharmacy.
By using the coupon code “2DAY20” visitors can get 20 percent of their entire purchase.
It also says that an extra $10 will be taken off when you spend $50 or more at checkout. On the CVS site, however, it says that offer expired Friday, so that I am not guaranteeing that one. It is possible that the offer was extended, and the site not updated.
The site also notes another CVS deal that will be Wednesday only in stores. That deal offers $5 off purchases of $25 or more, with your Extra Care Bucks card. And the ECB card is free.
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TweetAmex, Discover to end over-the-limit fees
Before the new law can clamp down on such fees, American Express and Discover have decided to stop charging fees when credit card users exceed their credit limits, as reported by USA Today and The Consumerist, following an American Banker report Monday, Aug. 10.
American Banker said the move is “the first concrete examples of how a new (credit card) law will restrict issuers’ abilities to turn a profit.”
AB said that it may lead the way for other issuers to give up on overlimit fees, which the publication refers to as “a relatively small but useful source of fee income, observers said.” The Consumerist added that the fees aren’t very profitable for creditors.
Regardless of the whys, Amex was quoted as saying it will start this (or end this, as the case may be) with the Oct. 1 bills. Discover was not as specific, according to AB.
On this front, The Consumerist also had an interesting list today, Aug. 11, of 36 risk factors creditors use to deny you credit.
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TweetCPSC lists top 10 recalled children’s items
Consumer Reports highlighted a list put together by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission of the top 10 recalled kids’ items, which are especially important to note as garage sale season continues.
Both sites offer good information on what to avoid and why.
“Those who resell recalled children’s products are not only breaking the law, they are putting children’s lives at risk,” CPSC Chairman Inez Tenenbaum told Consumer Reports. “Resale stores should make safety their business and check for recalled products and hazards to children.”
Among the items on the list are certain Polly Pocket dolls, drop-side cribs, bassinets, Magnetix and even Easy Bake Ovens.
If you plan to buy any used children’s items this summer, check out this list before you go.
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TweetFree pens among dozens of deals this week
Mommy Snacks author Andrea Deckard is also on the back-to-school page this morning, Aug. 10, noting some great sales.
“Don’t forget to check the grocery and drugstores for what deals you can get with coupons!” Deckard said. “This week, you can get FREE pens at several stores. The regular sales at each store are great as well to help you save during the back-to-school season!”
Here are her best coupon/ad deals in the Dayton area. If you click on the store name, you will get an expanded list of each store.
FREE Revlon Cosmetics after Extra Care Bucks
FREE Highlighters — Stop by Mommy Snacks for a printable coupon.
$.99 Bic Soleil Razor
Tons of back to school sales — see Mommy Snacks for the complete list.
FREE Scotch tape
$.35 Extra gum
FREE Danimals Crush Cups
$.50 Aunt Millie’s Bread
$.70 Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks (w/printable coupon at Mommy Snacks)
FREE Bic Pens (w/printable coupon at Mommy Snacks)
$.50 Knorr Pasta Sides
$.38 Speed Stick Deodorant
FREE Bic Pens
FREE Kotex Pantiliners
$.75 Kellogg’s Cinnabon Bars (w/printable coupon at Mommy Snacks)
$.50 Pillsbury Biscuits (w/printable coupon at Mommy Snacks)
$1 Yo-Plus Yogurt
$.50 Pop-Tarts
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Andrea's best deals, Back-to-school
TweetNew school supplies for pennies
The National Retail Federation wrote last month how the rules of back-to-school shopping “have officially changed,” in this economy, and that the amount spent was expected to be about 8 percent less than last year.
And the stores have responded. This year’s sales have been incredible, with many stores offering school supplies for $1 or less, and back-to school clothes for around $10.
For school supplies, Office Max has been having its Back to School for Pennies campaign for a few weeks, that offers notebooks for 1 cent, rulers for 5 cents, pencils for 10 cents per pack, etc.
Last week, the store had Sharpies for a penny.
Walmart has been offering multiple items for between 15 cents and 25 cents, with other items right around the dollar mark.
And Staples is having a great penny and dollar sale this week, offering one-subject notebooks for 1 cent (limit of six), assorted highlighters and packs of pens for $1 (limit two) and a 500-sheet ream of multipurpose paper for $1 (limit two), after rebate.
Staples has other deals for glue sticks, crayons, markers, folders and more that are two or three for $4.
Meijer also has supplies in the $1 and two for $3 range this week.
On the clothes front, Old Navy is having a sale this week of jeans for $10, Target has them for $12 (although they were $7 on a previous week) and Kmart has them for $12 this week as well.
Graphic T-shirts for kids are between $6 and $12 at most of these stores, including Target, Kohl’s, Sears and JCPenney.
JCPenney also has Izod uniform gear for 40 percent to 50 percent off this week, and many juniors’ tops are buy one, get one for $1. Sears also has Dockers uniforms for 50 percent off this week.
And even shoes can be found for less. Payless ShoeSource even has select kids’ shoes for less than $10.
Bottom line is, there are many ways to save this year, so keep a lookout for some great deals.
But do get out there soon — with the prices this low, there is only one way for them to go.
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Back-to-school, Savings
TweetMarion’s brings back 1965 prices today
Reminder: Today, Aug. 10, all seven Marion’s Piazza locations will be turning back the clock to 1965 to recognize the restaurant’s 44th anniversary.
In honor of that milestone, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. today, Marion’s will have its original 1965 menu and prices — a small cheese pizza for 80 cents, large deluxe pizza for $2.50, giant sandwich for 50 cents (half) to $1 (whole), spaghetti with sauce for 75 cents ($1 with meatballs) and Italian salads for 25 cents.
But be prepared to wait a bit, since this one-day sale has a history of drawing quite a crowd. The sale is usually every five years, and the next celebration was due in 2010.
As reported on this blog last week, Marion’s owner Roger Glass moved the anniversary celebration up a year due to the economy.
“It has been a tough year for people in Dayton, so we felt we had to do something — give something back,” Glass said.
Area restaurants are at 711 Shroyer Road in Oakwood, 50 E. Stroop Road in Kettering, 241 N. Main St. in Centerville, 8991 Kingsridge Drive in Miami Twp., 1320 N. Fairfield Road in Beavercreek, 3443 N. Dixie Drive in Dayton and 404 W. National Road in Englewood.
Permalink | Comments (23) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetHere’s the Deal: Outlet mall offers many options for Dayton-area shoppers
Cincinnati Premium Outlets opened last week, Aug. 6, in Monroe to a rousing display of retail love.
What looked like hundreds of thousands came out to see the debut of close to 100 designer and name-brand stores at the mall, which advertises savings of 25 percent to 65 percent every day.
But the real question I had — especially for us bargain shoppers who live in the Dayton area — is if those discounts make the trip down I-75 worth it.
So, I went down to the mall on opening day, Thursday, Aug. 6, to find out.
First off, I learned that the outlet mall is actually slightly closer to Dayton than it is to Cincinnati. It is about 26 miles from our downtown and 30 miles from Cincinnati’s.
Second, there are a good variety of stores in the outdoor setup, and an expanded selection within each:
• For kids, there is Carter’s, Gymboree Outlet, OshKosh B’gosh, Stride Rite, etc.
• For teens, there is Aeropostale, PacSun, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, etc.
• For the sporty, there is Nike Factory Store, adidas , Converse, Columbia Sportswear Co., etc.
• For the more upscale shopper, there is Jones New York, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Coach, Michael Kors, etc.
And, lastly but definitely not least, there are many great deals to be found.
Many of the stores, as is often the case with the outlet mall concept, have discounts on top of discounts — the original price, then a reduced price, then a percentage off.
For example, at the Nike Factory Store, backpacks (more on those later) were originally $50, marked down to $39.99, then were sold for an additional 20 percent off.
And, there are coupons.
On the mall’s Web site shoppers can sign up for a free VIP Coupon Book, which offers hundreds of discounts, and have access to additional coupons on the site.
Some of those coupons include 25 percent off your total purchase at Kenneth Cole and $50 off any purchase of $79 or more at Ultra Diamonds.
But, even without the coupons, here were some of the deals to be found on opening day:
• Crocs had kids’ boots for $9.99 and many other styles for $29.99 and less.
• The Gap had 30 percent off all jeans, and 20 to 30 percent off kids’ clothes.
• Banana Republic had 40 percent off its inventory.
• PacSun had two-for-$24.99 T-shirts, and guys’ boardshorts for an additional 50 percent off.
• Jockey had bras for $9.99 and tank tops for $3.99.
• Gymboree had up to 50 percent off, and OshKosh B’gosh had 40 percent off.
• And, again at Nike, kids’ clothes were as little as $6.95 on its clearance rack and gym shoes started at $29.99, with cleats as low as $14.99.
But if you can’t get down there this weekend, you will not miss out.
Although there are some “extra special” deals just through the weekend, according to an outlets representative, the huge discounts and the VIP Coupon Book deals will be ongoing.
Deals on backpacks, lunch boxes in area
To get a good look at what backpacks and lunch boxes are available in the Dayton area for soon-to-be students, I visited 10 area stores that have been advertising discounts.
(I reported on much of this in a post last week, for a slightly extended roundup of those findings, see that post. This edited roundup appeared in today’s Dayton Daily News, and includes sales going on this week.)
Most of the prices quoted were from last week, but they shouldn’t change much until after school starts.
Here is a snapshot of deals I found Tuesday, Aug. 4:
Best backpacks for younger students: Character backpacks — those with SpongeBob, iCarly, The Jonas Brothers, etc. — can be found at many stores, starting at $7.
Target ($8.99), Kmart ($10 to $17) and Meijer ($12.99) had the best selection of backpacks for younger students. JCPenney ($14.99), Sears ($14.99 to $17.99) and Walmart ($7 to $15) also had offerings, but the selection wasn’t as good.
Sears also had Lands’ End backpacks for $24.99 to $39.99.
Best backpacks for older students: Kmart was best in price for older kids, due to its sale of Athletech, Starter and Route 66 backpacks for between $10 and $20 last week.
Target had multiple Jansport backpacks from $19.99 to $59.99, and the lowest price on Swiss Gear I found, at $26.99 to $35.99.
Meijer had High Sierra for $29.99 to $49.99, Swiss Gear for $29.99 and AKA Sport for $19.99.
Kohl’s has a strong selection of durable backpacks, and sales on Jansport ($29.99 to $49.99), Swiss Gear ($34.99) and Nike ($29.99 to $44.99). Dickies backpacks were $17.99.
Macy’s had many Jansport styles and is reportedly selling them for around $39.99 this week. It also will have High Sierra backpacks starting at $29.99.
In the juniors’ section, Macy’s had Peace Rocks backpacks and messenger bags for $30 to $40.
Staples had Jansport for $29.99 and Swiss Gear for $37.49, and Office Max prices start at $22.50.
Office Max also had cool Jeep backpacks ($26.24 after discount), which I didn’t see anywhere else.
Best for roller and sling backpacks, and messenger bags: There seem to be far fewer roller and sling backpacks around this year as compared to last, maybe because those styles are sometimes discouraged by schools.
Kmart had the best selection of roller backpacks, and many were around $20. Other stores that offer rollers include Target, Sears, Office Max and Staples.
JCPenney had the best selection of sling backpacks, with a handful of varieties from $25 to $35.
Kohl’s also had some good adidas slings ($39.99) — and for less than at Meijer ($45). Meijer does have some other cheaper sling backpacks for younger kids, starting at $7.99.
Other stores that offer slings are Kmart, Sears, Target and Office Depot.
Most stores had messenger bag options at similar prices to other backpacks, with Target, JCPenney and Kmart leading the way.
Best for lunch boxes: Meijer had the best selection of lunch boxes, with many character-adorned ones for $8.99 to $9.99. It also has more lunch totes from California Innovations ($4.99 to $5.99) and Arctic Zone ($5.99 to $8.99).
Target also had many lunch boxes, with and without characters. Arctic Zone bags are the cheapest I found, at $3.99, while others are $7 to $9.99.
Walmart ($8) and Kmart ($8 to $9) have inexpensive offerings, but had a surprisingly small selection.
Permalink | Comments (3) | Post your comment | Categories: Sunday columns
TweetDP&L has tips to keep cool for less
Now that the weather seems to be finally heating up, it is a good time to offer some tips for how to keep your cool without spending a lot this summer.
So, here are some tips from DP&L:
Air-conditioning usage
— Use a programmable thermostat or manually increase the temperature when you leave home so your air conditioner doesn’t run as frequently. Some experts suggest 78 degrees for the setting while you are home. Turn it up higher when you are away.
— Clean or replace your air filter so your air conditioner meets less air resistance.
— Seal air leaks around doors and windows to keep hot air out and cold air from escaping.
— Close your windows while running the air conditioner. This also can help keep your pet safe. In warm months, many pets fall out of screened windows, according to the Humane Society of Greater Dayton.
— Close registers in unused rooms and close the doors.
— Add insulation to your attic or install an attic fan to exhaust hot air.
— Use a fan to circulate air in rooms you are using.
Sources of heat
— Halogen and incandescent light bulbs produce heat. Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) are cooler than other bulbs. Reduce heat in your home and turn $1.30 in savings into $1,252 with DP&L’s discounted CFLs at local retailers.
— Use drapes or blinds to block sunlight to keep the heat of the day out.
— Avoid using your clothes dryer, oven and dishwasher during the day.
— Refrigerators generate heat also. Do you have an extra refrigerator or freezer you could do without? Consider recycling it.
Cool from the inside
— Drink plenty of water in hot weather and ensure your pets have plenty of fresh water at all times and shade when they are outside.
— Check frequently on elderly relatives and neighbors who do not have air conditioning.
DP&L also has a full list of energy saving tips and more information about energy-efficiency programs online.
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TweetKids can get in free at Newport Aquarium
Want your kids to see the new jellyfish exhibit at the Newport Aquarium for less than it costs to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich?
During Summer Family Hours, which are 4:30 to 7 p.m. Sunday through Friday, two kids get in free with every adult admission at the aquarium, located at One Levee Way in Newport, Ky.
That free admission ends up being a big discount, since a ticket for children 2 through 12 usually costs $13. Adult admission is $20, and children younger than 2 are always admitted free.
Also during those Summer Family Hours, strollers are welcome and each kid receives a coupon for a free Bob Evans kids’ meal.
Summer Family Hours end Sept. 4.
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TweetRite Aid launches savings program, coupon blitz
If you don’t mind watching advertising videos, Rite Aid’s new savings program could work for you.
The drugstore chain announced Thursday, Aug. 6, that its Video Values Program will offer access to “exclusive coupons” totaling up to $130 in savings that customers can earn by watching short informational videos on select products.
Viewers also receive a $5 Rite Aid Bonus Coupon when they earn 20 video credits, and some videos are worth more credits.
Also, for those who don’t want to sit through advertising videos to get coupons, all savings are not lost.
Rite Aid followed up that video announcement by revealing today, Aug. 7, that it will have additional pages of coupons in Rite Aid’s weekly newspaper ads (reportedly four extra pages in this Sunday’s Dayton Daily News) and online, as well as more offerings on coupon sites, such as coupons.com.
“More and more, we’re seeing Rite Aid customers plan their shopping trips around discounts and promotions,” said John Learish, Rite Aid senior vice president of marketing.
“We recognize this is a national trend and want to offer more of these opportunities to both our loyal customers and those giving our stores a new look.”
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TweetCoupons for free shakes, fries, spaghetti
Mommy Snacks had a good list of current restaurant deals and coupons in a post Thursday, Aug. 6.
Among the many noted are:
Buy one Mint Cookies and Cream Milk Shake at Steak N’ Shake, get one free through Sept. 27.
Get a free spaghetti at Fazoli’s (they of the kids free meals on August weekends) with a drink purchase when you sign up on the Fazoli’s site.
And free medium McDonald’s fries and drink with the purchase of an Angus Third-pound Burger through Aug. 31.
Also, DealNews has a handy-dandy, updated list of the top restaurant coupons available.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Free stuff, Savings
TweetWendy’s to unveil new premium bacon cheeseburger
Wendy’s announced Thursday, Aug. 6, that it plans to launch a premium bacon cheeseburger in October, setting up a battle with McDonald’s new Angus burgers that debuted this summer.
Wendy’s/Arby’s Group President and CEO Raymond Smith said the new burger will have “juicier beef, improved bun (and) bacon cooked from scratch.”
Although the price has yet to be determined (and likely won’t be a bargain) Smith said that “Value is relative, and I don’t think all value is defined by $1 price points.”
Sounds like something a CEO might say.
Reportedly, since the merger of Wendy’s and Arby’s in September, Arby’s has struggled due to its more expensive menu items while Wendy’s, “with its cheaper menu items and massive store base,” has consistently performed well.
Is this the best move for Wendy’s in this economy? We’ll just have to see if this juicy offering is worth the price.
Permalink | Comments (26) | Post your comment | Categories: Consumer interest
TweetTrucks actually winners in clunker game
CNN updated a story today, Aug. 7, that Consumer Reports had earlier this week (and noted by this blog) chronicling which cars were the most popular to give and receive in the Cash for Clunkers program.
CNN said the Ford Escape tops the list of cars bought in the program, as opposed to the initial report of the Toyota Corolla (which is now ninth on that list).
(UPDATED) CNN noted:
As noted he government’s results showed small cars as the top choice for shoppers looking for Cash for Clunker deals. But an independent analysis by Edmunds.com disputed those results, and showed that two full-size trucks and a small crossover SUV were actually among the top-10 buys.
Consumer Reports worked from figures provided by the NHTSA. CNN blamed the disparity on the “arcane measurement method” used by the government “that subdivides models according to engine and transmission types, counting them as separate models.”
“An independent analysis by Edmunds.com using traditional sales measurements, tallying sales by make and model, disputed the government’s results which showed small cars as the top choice for shoppers looking for Clunker deals.”
The story did not note if the Edmonds research altered the list of most popular clunkers turned in for cash, but that might be a natural conclusion to draw.
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TweetTarget recalls booster seats due to fall hazard
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on Thursday, Aug. 6, Target has recalled its Circo Booster Seats.
Reportedly, the booster seat restraint buckle can open unexpectedly, allowing a child to fall from the chair and be injured.
The CPSC said Target has received eight reports of the booster seat buckles failing, and three reports of bruises.
The seats were sold exclusively at Target stores nationwide from December through June for about $13.
Consumers should stop using the booster seat and return the item to the nearest Target to receive a full refund.
For more information, call Target at (800) 440-0680 or visit www.target.com.
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TweetTop 10 clunkers turned in for cash
The Senate voted Thursday, Aug. 6, to extend the Cash for Clunkers program, and it is interesting to note which cars are being turned in for the rebates and which are being bought with that money.
The Consumerist noted Wednesday, Aug. 5, that 80 percent of the vehicles traded in have been trucks or SUVs, and the top sellers among car-buyers come from Honda, Toyota and Ford.
The top 10 clunkers turned in, according to Consumer Reports as of Wednesday night, are: (they are in order from 1 to 10, in case the numbers are hard to read)
Ford Explorer 4WD
Ford F-150 Pickup 2WD
Jeep Grand Cherokee 4WD
Jeep Cherokee 4WD
Dodge Caravan/Grand Caravan 2WD
Chevrolet Blazer 4WD
Ford Explorer 2WD
Ford F-150 Pickup 4WD
Chevrolet C1500 Pickup 2WD
Ford Windstar
And the top 10 cars purchased with clunker money are:
Toyota Corolla
Ford Focus
Honda Civic
Toyota Prius
Toyota Camry
Hyundai Elantra
Ford Escape FWD
Dodge Caliber
Honda Fit
Chevrolet Cobalt
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TweetGreat savings at new outlet mall today
I ran down to the brand-new Cincinnati Premium Outlets mall this morning, Aug. 6, for its grand opening at 9 a.m.
It was crowded, but not as insane as I thought it would be, and there were many great deals to be found at the nearly 100 shops available, including:
The Nike Factory store had men’s and women’s shirts for 2 for $30 and kids’ clothes for as little as $6.95 on its clearance rack, the Crocs store had kids’ boots for $9.99, Banana Republic had 40 percent off its entire inventory and Jockey had bras for $9.99 and tank tops for $3.99.
There are some “extra special” deals just through the weekend, according to the outlets representative, but many discounts will be ongoing. Also ongoing will be the VIP coupon book that offers additional savings.
I will have more on the deals and coupons in this Sunday’s Here’s the Deal column on this blog and in the Dayton Daily News, but I wanted to make sure I got a note up about the many sales that started today.
If you don’t mind a little drive (it is around 26 miles from downtown Dayton), some crowds and waiting in line a bit, the deals are well worth your time this weekend.
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TweetBest prices, selection for school backpacks, lunch boxes
Many stores are having sales on backpacks and lunch boxes for back-to-school shoppers, but which stores really have the items you are looking for at the best prices?
To find out, I went out to stores in the Dayton area. I looked at price, quality and selection — including roller backpacks, sling backpacks (the ones with one strap) and messenger bags.
Here’s a snapshot of what I found. Remember, since all of these stores have multiple locations, the selection may vary slightly.
Many of these sales end Saturday, Aug. 8. For more deals on backpacks next week, check back on this blog Sunday.
Best backpacks for younger students
Target has a great selection of character backpacks for $8.99. It also is in the midst of a “price cut” on many lighter Embark backpacks, which are between $9 and $19.99.
Kmart also had a good variety of character backpacks, and they have many for 30 percent off this week (making them $14 to $17), and others for a flat $10.
Meijer has many character styles for $12.99, JCPenney has them for $14.99 and Sears has others for $14.99 to $17.99.
Sears also has Lands’ End backpacks for $24.99 to $39.99.
Walmart is, of course, the cheapest choice overall ($7 to $15), but the quality is the cheapest as well. Walmart carries its own brand backpacks, which might not be able to stand up to the abuse of anyone older than 9, so I would only consider them for younger students.
However, Walmart has a decent selection of character choices, from Marvel Heroes to Disney Princesses, and the price is right.
Best backpacks for older students
Kmart has a sale on Athletech, Starter and Route 66 backpacks, making them between $10 and $20.
Target has multiple Jansport Trans backpacks from $19.99 to $59.99, and the lowest price on Swiss Gear I found, at $26.99 to $35.99.
Meijer has High Sierra backpacks $29.99 to $49.99, Swiss Gear for $29.99 and AKA Sport for $19.99. The store also is running a sale this week on Mudd backpacks ($24.99) as well: Buy one, get one for $10 off.
Kohl’s has a great selection of durable backpacks, and sales on Jansport ($29.99 to $49.99), Swiss Gear ($34.99) and Nike ($29.99 to $44.99). Dickies backpacks are $17.99.
Kohl’s also has Tony Hawk backpacks (it wouldn’t be Kohl’s without Tony Hawk) for $29.99, down from its original $50.
Macy’s has a good selection of Jansport at among of the best prices: $19.99 to $39.99. It also has High Sierra backpacks for $24.99 to $59.99.
In the juniors’ section, Macy’s has Peace Rocks backpacks and messenger bags for $30 to $40.
Staples, which has been running a backpack sale for weeks, has Jansport for $29.99 and Swiss Gear for $37.49.
Office Max has a similar selection to Staples but prices starting a little lower at $22.50. Office Max also had cool Jeep backpacks ($26.24 after disount), which I didn’t see anywhere else.
JCPenney has some offerings for older kids, like Arizona backpacks for girls for $27.99 (down from original $40).
And Sears is surprisingly expensive for big kids’ backpacks this week, with prices from $39.99 to $99.99.
Best for roller and sling backpacks, and messenger bags
There seem to be far fewer roller and sling backpacks around this year as compared to last, maybe because those styles are sometimes discouraged by schools.
But, if you are looking for choices in roller backpacks, Kmart features the best selection and many are around $20.
Other stores that offer rollers include Target, Sears, Office Max and Staples.
JCPenney has the best selection of sling backpacks I saw, with a handful of varieties to choose from in the $25 to $35 range.
Kohl’s also has some good adidas slings ($39.99), for cheaper than at Meijer ($45). Meijer does have some other cheaper sling backpacks for younger kids, starting at $7.99.
Other stores that offer sling backpacks are Kmart, Sears, Target, and Office Depot.
Most of these stores had messenger bag options at similar prices to the regular backpacks, with Target, JCPenney and Kmart leading the way.
Best for lunch boxes
Meijer has the best selection of lunch boxes, with many character ones for $8.99 to $9.99. It also has the more generic lunch totes from California Innovations ($4.99 to $5.99) and Arctic Zone ($5.99 to $8.99).
Target also has a good selection of lunch boxes, with characters and without. Arctic Zone lunch bags are the cheapest I found, at $3.99, while others are $7 to $9.99.
Walmart ($8) and Kmart ($8 to $9) have inexpensive offerings for younger and older students but have an unexpectedly small selection.
There are small selections of lunch bags for older students at Staples ($6.99 to $9.99), Office Max ($8.99 to $9.99), Kohl’s ($11.99), Sears ($14.99 to $19.50) and JCPenney ($16.99).
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TweetBlack & Decker trimmer/edger and Spalding basketball hoop recalled
There were a couple recalls of note Tuesday, Aug. 4, from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission — the Black & Decker GH1000 Grasshog XP String Trimmer/Edgers and Spalding In-Ground Basketball Hoops.
Both were recalled due to the dangers they pose.
The trimmers were initially recalled in 2007, when 700 incidents had been reported. Since then, there have been 100 more reports.
Parts of the trimmers can come loose during use and become airborne projectiles, posing a serious laceration hazard to the user and bystanders. The tools also can overheat, posing a burn hazard.
No injuries have been reported for the Spalding basketball hoops, but bolts at the base of the hoop can fail, causing the unit to fall.
This poses a risk of serious injury to consumers.
If you own the trimmer or the hoop, visit the CPSC at these links to get information on how to go about returning or replacing the item.
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TweetKids eat free on August weekends at Fazoli’s
In honor of Fazoli’s being named among the 2009 Parents magazine 10 Best Fast-Casual Restaurants, the restaurant chain is offering a great deal for parents across the country.
Fazoli’s is letting children 12 and younger eat free on weekends throughout August — one free kids’ meal with each adult entree that is purchased.
The restaurant earned the Parental distinction by having a “variety of healthy kids’ menu offerings, family-friendly conveniences and overall value.”
As it says in its fourth-place ranking explanation, the “indulgent-sounding kids’ choices … contain only 260 to 350 calories and two to 14 grams of fat.”
Fazoli’s also is commended for having family promotions (and they haven’t even seen this one yet), like its kids’ meals for 99 cents on Tuesdays at most locations.
Also on the list of best fast-casual dining for children is Panera, which came in fifth place, and Noodles and Company, which came in third.
The No. 1 choice eludes us here in Dayton, although there is one in Columbus. It is called Cosi — and they don’t mean the museum.
Cosi is lauded for many reasons, including the fact that every kids’ entree contains fewer than 425 calories and baby carrots and fresh fruit are plentiful.
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TweetPayless has kids’ shoes for less than $10
For back-to-school shoppers, Payless ShoeSource has kicked off some features that are decidedly family-friendly.
Among those features are:
Select children’s shoes for less than $10 (including boys’ Oxfords, girls’ Mary Janes and slip-on canvas sneakers).
Most shoes averaging $20.
Extending children’s sizing from the traditionally largest youth size of 4.5 up to size 6, as well as continuing the shoe sizing of children.
And a cross-promotional deal with Office Max that nets shoppers coupons for Payless and Office Max for shopping at either store. Specific details are available at Office Max stores.
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TweetSharpies only a penny at Office Max
Office Max, which has been running its Back-to-School for Pennies promotion for a few weeks, has an additional deal this week as noted by Mommy Snacks.
With a coupon available on the Snacks site, you can get Sharpie markers for a penny each (limit of three). The coupon is good through Saturday, Aug. 8.
The Pennies campaign is a good one over at Office Max, and you can get items that are a penny, 10 cents or 50 cents, or buy one, get one for a penny. But I would recommend sticking to the deals there, since some of their non-sale items can make up for the money saved.
Also, the store is having a Teacher Appreciation Day on Sunday, Aug. 9, offering a free reusable shopping bag and all teachers can fit in it for 15 percent off.
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TweetSony to have least expensive e-book reader
Consumer Reports reported that Sony announced today, Aug. 5, that it will soon have the least expensive e-book reader — the Sony Reader Pocket Edition, which will cost $199 and should be ready at the end of the month.
Sony also revamped its touch screen and, according to the story, announced an e-book price reduction. It said that most new releases and best-sellers will typically be $9.99 at its online E-Book Store.
CR went on to note that the price cut brings Sony’s e-book prices in line with those of the Kindle, and means more titles are available for less as e-books than as regular books.
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TweetFree admission to CoCo Key with school supply donation
CoCo Key Water Resort is having a “Back to School Splash” on Tuesday, Aug. 11, to help children in need of school supplies.
CoCo Key guests who bring a new and unused school supply to Sheraton Cincinnati North on Tuesday will receive one free waterpark admission pass for each supply donated.
If you don’t mind heading farther out, the deal also applies to Cherry Valley Lodge in Licking County on Monday, Aug. 10.
Each free pass will be valid for one of four, three-hour swim periods: 9 a.m. to noon, noon to 3 p.m., 3 to 6 p.m., or 6 to 9 p.m. During each of these admission periods, a maximum of 600 passes will be given away.
Guests can bring school supplies from notebooks and crayons to boxes of pencils and markers. The collected items will be donated to Cincinnati and Columbus-area schools’ most needy students.
“Back to School Splash is a great way for kids to learn to help those less fortunate, while enjoying a great time with friends and family,” said CoCo Key Water Resort Marketing Director Beth Kelly. “We’re thrilled to help families give back to the community by offering them a visit to CoCo Key Water Resort.”
A special “Back to School Splash” room rate of just $99 also will be offered, based on availability.
The Sheraton Cincinnati North, which boasts 257 guest rooms, is just 39 miles south of downtown Dayton.
Cherry Valley Lodge is 108 miles from Dayton. The a 200-room resort is 25 miles east of Columbus.
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TweetMarion’s Piazza to offer pizza for 80 cents
On Monday, Aug. 10, all seven Marion’s Piazza locations will be turning back the clock to 1965 in honor of the restaurant’s 44th anniversary.
From 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday, Marion’s will feature its original 1965 menu — complete with original prices.
For example, those prices will be:
Small cheese pizza: 80 cents
Large deluxe pizza: $2.50
Giant sandwich: 50 cents for half, $1 for whole
Spaghetti with sauce: 75 cents, $1 with meatballs
Italian salads: 25 cents
Beverages will be regular price.
There is a limit of one major menu item per customer — one pizza, sandwich or spaghetti — and the restaurant is not taking seating reservations or other discounts that day. They also can’t accept half-baked or uncooked orders.
It is dine-in (although seating is not guaranteed) or carry-out, but the restaurant is not taking advance orders.
You may recall Marion’s having a deal like this a few years back. The restaurant usually features their 1965 Menu Anniversary promotion every five years, and the last time was in 2005.
But, due to the economy, Marion’s owner Roger Glass said they decided to move the special up a year.
“It has been a tough year for people in Dayton, so we felt we had to do something — give something back,” said Glass, citing the exit of businesses including NCR and GM.
“People (of Dayton) have been mighty nice to us,” he added. “We wanted to show that we’re still here and we’re not going anywhere.”
Glass said, if previous anniversary sales are an indicator, that Monday will be extremely busy at the restaurants.
“We’re going to be jammed from the moment we open to the moment we close,” he said, “but we will have extra help. There are ex-employees who want to come back and help.”
Glass, who added that the restaurant will probably resume its regularly scheduled anniversary specials next year, said he will be at the Shroyer Road location on Monday.
If anyone wants to stop by and talk to him, he said, “They can just ask for Roger.”
Area restaurants are at 711 Shroyer Road, 50 E. Stroop Road, 241 N. Main St. in Centerville, 8991 Kingsridge Drive, 1320 N. Fairfield Road, 3443 N. Dixie Drive and 404 W. National Road in Englewood.
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TweetSchool, dorm supplies on sale at Amazon
Business Wire reported today, Aug. 3, that Amazon has launched a Shop by Grade store that features discounted school supplies by grade.
The online retail giant has supplies for elementary, middle school, high school and college students, as well as a Dorm Deals store.
The best part about Amazon and school supply shopping is, of course, the fact that it is all delivered to your door. It is almost as good as the schools that bundle everything you need for that class and have you pay a flat fee.
But do they really have deals to offer?
To see how Amazon’s prices compare to some we have had in the Miami Valley, I calculated the same list of nine common school supply items I checked out a couple weeks ago at eight area stores.
In that roundup, I had 24-count crayons, a 5-subject notebook, 5-inch scissors, a 12-pack of No. 2 pencils, a 2-pack of highlighters, a 4-ounce school glue, a clipboard, a 1-inch binder and a folder with brads.
Walmart’s prices were the best, with the total cost being $9.20; Office Depot was the most expensive, cashing in at $25.65.
And how much did Amazon’s list cost? From the “Buy New” pricing: $17.39, which would put it in fourth place as far as cheapest prices. That doesn’t include shipping, but Amazon.com members can qualify for free super saver shipping.
Like with my other list, some of the amounts given were adjusted to keep the amount you would get for the price consistent. For instance, the highlighters came in a four-pack at $2.42, but we needed a two-pack to compare, so it was calculated at $1.21.
This generally wasn’t an issue, except for with the folder with brads. The smallest amount I could find on Amazon was a 25-count box, whereas in most stores you can pick up as many or as few as you need.
If you are planning to buy in bulk, however, through Sept. 6, Amazon will feature a deal that if you buy two of one of their school essentials, you get the third for free.
The site’s essentials include many that were part of our initial list: glue, notebooks, binders, etc.
Also, for the high school and college kids who need laptops, there are bargains to be found, and the site also will have textbook deals through Oct. 16 that offer up to 30 percent off more than 100,000 new textbooks and up to 90 percent off the list price of millions of used textbooks.
There also is free two-day shipping on textbooks.
Other school-related discounts of note on the site include backpacks up to 30 percent off through Aug. 31, with eligible High Sierra backpacks and bags up to 50 off through Aug. 15.
And, through Sept. 30, save up to 50 percent on hundreds of back-to-college bedding and bath products.
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TweetHotels: Where the bargains are
Fast on the heels of our cheap airfare post today, Aug. 3, is one about saving money at hotels — another sign that summer is on its last sandy legs.
According to BudgetTravel.com and the Go Frugal Blog, hotels are the best places to get travel bargains this year.
Go Frugal said the hotel industry learned a great deal about recession pricing after 9/11 and, like airlines, has been increasingly using travel sites like HotWire and Priceline to advertise their deals.
Some of the deals Go Frugal mentioned that are going on right now are Expedia.com’s biggest hotel sale ever for those who book by Aug. 31 for travel by Sept. 7, and Hotwire’s last-minute deals.
Also worth a look is TheBestHotelDeals.net site, which guarantees savings of up to 70 percent off.
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TweetAirline tickets for cheap (or cheep!) on Twitter
Airlines are starting to get on board and use social networking to advertise flights, and it could mean good deals for us.
USA Today had a story this morning, Aug. 3, that noted how Jet Blue and United airlines are now on Twitter.
The airlines are posting “cheeps” and “twares,” respectively, that offer last-minute bargain-basement fares to fill empty seats.
But going through specific airlines isn’t the only way to find good deals on flights; another good one to follow on Twitter is Airlinedeals. You can also enter a phrase when searching such as “Disney vacation” or “travel deals” to get more bargains.
And, if you are just interested in news of airline comings and goings, another Twitterer of note is AirlineEguide.
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TweetHonda recalls another 440,000 cars
CNN reported Friday night, July 31, that Honda Motor Co. widened a previously announced recall to add 440,000 cars that could have a lethal airbag defect.
Honda said the airbag inflator casing can rupture and “metal fragments could pass through the cloth airbag cushion material, possibly causing an injury or fatality to vehicle occupants.”
Reportedly there have been 6 injuries and one death.
The affected models include the 2001-02 Honda Accord, 2001 Civic and 2002-03 Acura TL.
Honda is sending out recall notices by mail, according to CNN and The Consumerist, but for those who can’t wait for that, see if your vehicle is affected at the Honda Web site.
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TweetSome snack packages getting bigger, but not more expensive
When I first started this consumer gig, a good eight months ago, one of the first blog posts I did was about how some companies were trying to get the same cash out of your pocket but give you less goods for that money.
But it seems that those tides have shifted, especially in the snack aisle, in that small window of time.
The Associated Press reported in July that, contrary to last year, some brands are making their packages bigger, yet charging the same price, due to the slump in demand.
The story said: “Think of your food packages like an economic barometer: Times are tough, so costs are low and packages are bigger. When times are good, costs are high and packages, to compensate, get smaller.”
Some of the brands AP cited as giving you more these days include Doritos, Cheetos, Tostitos, Fritos and The Snack Factory’s pretzel crisps.
So, even though the reason behind it is unfortunate, at least we are being given more for our money for a change.
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TweetHere’s the Deal: Back-to-school clothes
Following quickly on the heels of our school supply sale roundup from last week is this week’s look at some of the best priced back-to-school clothes in the Dayton area.
And, unlike with school supplies, when considering clothes for students, brands are more of a factor — especially where fashion-conscious teens are concerned.
But fear not. There are many great deals to be found for any school-bound kid.
Jeans, pants, shorts
Jeans, primarily Levi’s, are headlining most area sales this week.
The best deals on Levi’s can be found at Marshall’s and T.J. Maxx.
At Marshall’s, boys’ Levi’s are just $7.99, although (if you care) many are from last season. Girls’ Levi’s are $14.99.
At T.J. Maxx, Levi’s for girls and boys for $12.99, and young women (juniors) and young men (hereafter to be referred to as “guys”) start at $14.99.
Marshall’s also has juniors’ jeans in name brands, such as Express, for as low as $12.99, and even had one Lucky Brand Jeans (that still had its former $110 price tag on it) marked down to $34.99.
For guys, other name-brand jeans at Marshall’s are $19.99 to $29.99.
At Kohl’s, Levi’s are $32.99 to $39.99 for teens, $14.99 to $19.99 for girls and $24.99 to $26.99 for boys.
JCPenney has Levi’s for girls and boys starting at $19.99; juniors, $29.99; and guys, $32.99. It also has boys and girls Arizona jeans for $9.99.
Guys’ shorts at JCPenney are $13.99 to $16.99.
All jeans are on sale at Sears: girls for $14.99 to $21.99, boys for $12.99 to $24.99, and jeans for teens for $32.99 to $36.99.
Walmart’s denim offerings include Wrangler jeans for boys ($10) and young men ($16.50), and L.E.I. jeans for girls ($14) and juniors ($18) on sale.
Elder-Beerman has boys Levi’s and Calvin Klein jeans, as well as girls’ Imperial Star and Squeeze jeans for $24.99. E-B also has a special on Blue Spice denim for juniors for $19.98.
If you don’t mind gently used jeans and shorts, you can find great deals at Plato’s Closet and Once Upon a Child.
Brandy Cole, the manager at the Centerville Once Upon a Child, said the clothes are priced by brand and wear.
“We sell more Abercrombie for back-to-school than anything else,” Cole said.
Plato’s Closet primarily caters to teens and has Abercrombie, Hollister and American Eagle jeans for $12 to $25.
American Eagle shorts for guys are $16.
Plato’s Closet works with its neighbor, Once Upon a Child, and has Abercrombie jeans for kids for $16 to $20 and Lee and Levi’s jeans for as low as $4.50.
Target also has girls’ pants, capris and shorts, and boys’ pants, jeans and shorts for $10.
Also at Target, guys’ cargo shorts are $15 to $20.
Shirts and hoodies
Kmart tops all the shirt sales this week, not only with graphic T-shirts for $6, but Route 66 T-shirts for boys and girls are $3.99 today and Monday only.
Marshall’s and T.J. Maxx are a close second, with girls’ and boys’ shirts starting at $5.99.
Marshall’s also has American Eagle hoodies for juniors for $14.99 and T-shirts for $7.99.
Plato’s Closet has Abercrombie hoodies for $16.
Also in the running for least expensive, Target has tops for girls for $6 and for boys for $5, and the store’s “weekly wow” is girls’ and boys’ Ultimate T-shirts for $4.
For young men, athletic-fit T-shirts are $8.
Walmart has boys’ and girls’ graphic T-shirts for $7.
Girls’ fashion tops are $9.99 at Kohl’s, with knit tops for juniors starting at $5.99, and graphic T-shirts for guys starting at $7.
Sears has guys’ screen T-shirts (which is just like “graphic” T-shirts) for 2 for $18, and juniors’ tops starting at $9.99.
Boys’ Vans T-shirts are $11.99 and other novelty T-shirts are $8.99 at JCPenney, where girls’ tops are $8.99 to $12.99.
Uniforms
For those who need specific uniform items for school, Marshall’s has polo shirts for boys’ uniforms for $5.99, and JCPenney has girls and boys’ Izod polo shirts for $8.99 and Izod uniform pants for $14.99.
Sears has polos for girls and boys for $9.99, girls’ jumpers for $14.99 and boy’s Dockers for $14.99 as well.
The Children’s Place sells uniform basics for $9.50 to $16.50.
Shoes
Cleats, for those kids gearing up for their fall sports, continue to be on sale at Dick’s Sporting Goods this week. Kids’ gym shoes are 20 percent off there this week, as well.
Sears has gym shoes — adidas, New Balance and Reebok — on sale this week. Prices start at around $31.99.
And JCPenney has name-brand gym shoes for boys ($29.99 to $39.99) and girls ($17.99 to $29.99) on sale as well.
General markdowns
Old Navy just wrapped up one back-to-school sale Thursday, and began another Friday. The current sale — working with the theme, “The Class of ’10” — has many clothing options for $10, others that are 2 for $10 and, still others, 3 for $10.
Gymboree has marked down kids’ clothes up to 40 percent through Aug. 16, and The Children’s Place has an additional 50 percent off already discounted back-to-school clothes.
Justice stores also are having a clearance sale on shorts and tops for $4.99 to $9.99.
Check out this Dayton store for school supplies
In last week’s column about school supply deals, I left out one store that a couple readers said received top grades in their book — the United Art and Education store at 799 Lyons Road in Centerville.
The large store, which sells primarily to teachers, has many “dollar-off” deals right now on back-to-school supplies.
“Our main thing is we have a large selection of products and we can order a lot of things,” said Marcus Sparks, department manager at United. “We have the really high-quality stuff and some of the other items that are more for the budget-conscious.”
Sparks added that there also are things for parents to help their kids along in phonics, math, etc.
“We try to make education fun,” he said.
Last day to enter for Kings Island tickets
Today is the last day to enter the Big Ticket Giveaway to win four free tickets to Kings Island.
You just need to find the contest entry code in today’s Life section and enter it at DaytonDailyNews.com/go/win or write it on the entry form in the section and mail it in.
(By the way, today’s code will be on page 15!)
And, from what I hear, there are still many tickets to be given away.
You can’t get a better deal than free.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Back-to-school, Sunday columns
TweetFind out what users really think about online businesses, Web sites
A friend just clued me into a site that is not only helpful for us consumers, but fun as well.
SiteJabber.com is in the business of finding out which online businesses and Web sites are really user-friendly, and gives you the capability to check out a site you may not be sure is legitimate.
The site’s info is based on reviewers and has a Today’s Most Loved and Most Hated categories, as well as Member Favorites on a variety of topics — politics, funny, food, travel and, of course, shopping.
What I like about the site is that it makes sites of like topics easy to search, it is easy to see how many folks are checking out a site out vs. how many post reviews, and is fun to hear why reviewers liked or didn’t like a particular site.
If you are one who looks for sales and good shopping info online, it is well worth a gander.
Permalink | Comments (2) | Post your comment | Categories: Consumer interest
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