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Home > Blogs > Here's the Deal > Archives > 2009 > December
December 2009
Corvettes recalled because roofs can fly off
General Motors is recalling about 22,000 Chevrolet Corvettes, due to a problem with their detachable roofs.
According to GM, the recall includes 2005-07 model year Corvettes with removable roofs and 2006-07 Corvette Z06s.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, via CNN Money, noted:
“If there is a complete separation, the roof panel may detach from the vehicle. If this were to occur while the vehicle was being driven, it could strike a following vehicle and cause injury and/or property damage.”
The safety recall is expected to begin next month, and owners will get their roofs replaced free of charge, according to the NHTSA.
For more info, owners should call (800) 630-2438 or visit www.gmownercenter.com.
Permalink | Comments (4) | Post your comment | Categories: Recalls
TweetJCPenney, Lowe’s lead sales today
Although most folks might be predominantly shopping for chips and beer today, Dec. 31, if you have other shopping needs or just want to get some deals today, here are some options:
Lowe’s hasn’t put away its holiday decorations, yet, and has most of them for 75 percent off. In addition, home accent decorations are 50 percent off.
The store also is continuing its discounts on storage and organizational items.
JCPenney is having another Instant Money sale, which is always nice, and has doorbusters of up to 60 percent off from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday.
Part of this sale is a white sale, with deals on sheets, pillows and the like. Mattresses are 50 percent to 65 percent off. And there are new discounts on clearance items up to 70 percent off.
If you want to shop at JCPenney online, there is free shipping for orders of $75 or more.
For those who want to start shopping tomorrow, Kohl’s (of the practically back-to-back sales) starts a new three-day sale Friday, with the best deals being during its power hours, 3 p.m. to midnight Friday and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.
Elder-Beerman is having a New Year’s Sale Friday and Saturday, with Trim-a-Home decorations 75 percent off, and other clearance items 70 percent off.
Online, E-B is having an after-Christmas stock up sale through today.
And Sears will have 20 percent off Kenmore appliances and fitness equipment on sale Friday and Saturday.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
Tweet80% to 85% off at Kohl’s, Macy’s today
It is true that there are fewer huge sales going on but, fortunately, there are still stores still have good stuff to clear out at great prices.
And, even better, some of those stores are Kohl’s and Macy’s.
Today, Dec. 30, is the last day of Kohl’s two-day sale — its “biggest goldstar clearance” — with savings of 60 percent to 70 percent off men’s and women’s fashions and shoes, and final clearance prices of 80 percent off.
Also at Kohl’s during this sale, seniors save an extra 15 percent off.
The Macy’s sale starts today and is being called the “new year’s kick-off sale.”
There are savings of 45 percent to 85 percent off, and extra savings passes and denim passes to get more money off purchases.
This sale runs through Sunday.
Permalink | Comments (5) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetThe best and worst ads of the decade?
Advertising Age, the trade publication for the advertising and marketing biz, recently released what it considered the best ads of the decade.
Their list was released by Wallet Pop about mid-December, but I didn’t put a link to it from here because it honestly struck me as pretty boring.
When I scanned down the list and checked out the accompanying videos, I couldn’t remember more than half of the commercials on it from when they originally aired.
Then I watched them, and found I had seen some, but had roundly forgotten them. They included an iTunes hip-hop ad, a Sony Bravia bouncy ball ad and a yawner from Cadbury with a gorilla playing the drums.
Since that list was released, Wallet Pop put together a list of the worst ads of the decade, which (in my opinion) contained much more interesting fodder.
Sure, it’s easier to find and remember bad ads, but the “worst” list has many that I would rather watch than the “best” list.
And, humorously, one ad is on both lists.
At any rate, check them out and see what you think.
On a related note, early this year MSNBC noted the best Super Bowl ads of all time. Those bring back some memories.
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Consumer interest
TweetUp to 70% off at JCPenney; other year-end sales
In what it is calling its “biggest after-Christmas sale,” JCPenney is having huge discounts on clothes, toys, home items, shoes, jewelry and more throughout the store.
Items at the store are up to 60 percent off storewide and online they are 50 percent to 70 percent off.
If you shop online, shipping is 99 cents per item.
The sale runs through Wednesday, Dec. 30.
And, speaking of clearance sales, Target is having one online, with savings of up to 75 percent off, as is NFLShop.com, which has discounts of 70 percent off.
For more, check out DealNews’ nice roundup of some year-end deals from a variety of stores, including ShoeSteal.com and Macy’s.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetTylenol Arthritis Caplets recall expanded
The Food & Drug Administration has expanded a recall of Tylenol Arthritis Caplets to include the 100-count bottles with the E-Z open cap.
According to USA Today, Johnson & Johnson initially recalled five lots of the product last month.
The recall was issued due to consumer reports of an unusual moldy, musty, or mildew-like odor that was associated with nausea, stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea.
According to the FDA, the uncharacteristic smell is caused by the presence of trace amounts of a chemical called 2,4,6-tribromoanisole. The source of 2,4,6-tribromoanisole is believed to be the breakdown of a chemical used to treat wooden pallets that transport and store packaging materials.
“The health effects of this compound have not been well studied, and to date all of the observed events reported were temporary and non-serious.”
For the full list of affected product lots, visit the Tylenol Web site. The product lot number is on the side of the bottle label.
For more information, call (888) 222-6036 or visit www.tylenol.com.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Recalls
TweetDeals at Blockbuster; inside scoop at BestBuy.com?
If you still like to own movies instead of streaming them into your computer, you might want to get down to your local Blockbuster this week.
The movie stores are having a sale on their previously owned DVDs, selling the $14.99 movies for three for $20, and the $9.99 movies for 5 for $20. You do have to buy them in those bundles to get the discounts, however.
Speaking of places that sell movies, Best Buy’s Web site was the focus of an interesting item on The Consumerist Web site on Monday.
Someone who said they are a BestBuy.com employee reports on some information you may find helpful.
As The Consumerist mentions, there is no confirmation that this is a current employee of Best Buy or that his info is 100 percent true.
However, the points made and the subsequent comments are appropriate and spark an interesting debate about how many choices we have about where we shop and what we shouldn’t have to put up with.
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TweetSales up, but discounts could be fewer
The Christmas season was better than expected for most retailers, up 3.6 percent over last season according to the most recent numbers.
That, and the fact that some retail stocks also rose on Monday, Dec. 28, is very good for our economy.
However, since the economy has been such a guessing game in the last year and retailers were still smarting from the huge losses they took last Christmas, the stores didn’t stock as much this year.
That lack of inventory already had been in evidence this season by the smaller numbers of doorbuster and other bigger sale items.
And it likely will affect the depth and breadth of after-holiday sales, since there will be less extra inventory to unload at cheaper prices.
So, shoppers on the hunt for these traditional bargains should get out sooner than later.
It will be interesting to see how the sales go this year, if the economy continues to improve, since we saw such huge markdowns throughout 2009.
There will still be bargains, but they may not be as easy to find as they were this year.
But, if nothing else, this tough year has taught many of us lessons in how to save that we can apply to any economy.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Consumer interest
TweetUp to 75% off at online stores today
Regardless of the theme they are choosing for the myriad sales taking place right now, many e-tailers are having big sales to clear out some inventory in the wake of the holidays.
Here are some of the better deals spotted today, Dec. 28:
Eddie Bauer is having The Ultimate Sale, with savings of up to 50 percent off.
Hollister has a “Sale and Clearance” on all jeans and fleece, making them 50 percent off.
Year-end Deals are up to 70 percent off at Amazon.com.
Target’s Clearance section has savings of 15 percent to 75 percent right now.
Nordstrom is having its Half-yearly Sale for Men and Winter Savings of up to 40 percent off.
Barnes & Noble is having an After-holiday Sale of 50 percent off select books and calendars, and other savings on DVDs and music.
6pm.com has added savings on many shoe styles and brands during its 36 Days of Joy, like Nike for 60 percent off and Reebok for 55 percent off.
And Cooking.com has up to 75 percent off appliances, cookware, cookbooks and more during its Year-end Clearance.
For more on these sales and many others, visit DealHack and see what you can find at the Bargainist.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetLearn sales cycles to save most cash
Andrea Deckard, one of the area pioneers in the money-saving blog world, has a great tip today about how to save the most cash year in and year out.
“A tip I recommend in my Beginner’s Guide to Saving is about the importance of understanding sales cycles,” said Deckard, author of Mommy Snacks. “This week is a perfect example of how this is important.”
Deckard noted that Kroger is running a P&G Savings Promotion this week, which is the exact sale that occurred last year at this time.
“Knowing sales cycles and promotions from manufacturers can help you buy products at the lowest price possible and keep more of your money where it belongs — in your wallet!” she said.
Here are her best coupon/ad sales for this week, Dec. 27 to Jan. 2, at area stores:
Money-Maker on Bayer Contour Glucose Meter after Extra Care Bucks with printable coupon
Money-Maker Colgate Toothpaste
Check out the scenarios in my post to purchase $37 in products for just $2.20 out of pocket!
Pay $12.50 after coupons and Register Rewards for two packs of Pampers
$.50 Chex Mix with printable coupon
$1.99 Gillette Fusion Razor after RR
$1.69 Grandessa Signature Hummus
$1.89 Happy Farms Deli Sliced Cheese
$.79 Rice and Sauce
$1.19 Jimmy Dean Sausage with printable coupon
$1.50 Healthy Choice Frozen Entrees
$.49 Healthy Choice Soups
$2.99 Freschetta Pizza with printable coupon
$.88 Dannon Yogurt
Many great deals with the P&G Promotion: Buy $25 get $5 off instantly! Use coupons to get that total even lower!
$1.54 Archer Farms Tortilla Chips with printable coupon
FREE Tide (travel size)
FREE Green Giant Fresh Broccoli
$.48 Kikkoman Soy Sauce with printable coupon
$1.88 Florida Natural Orange Juice
$1.98 Del Monte Orchard Select Jarred Fruits
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Andrea's best deals, Savings
TweetTips to avoid fire, carbon monoxide poisoning
With a variety of heat sources being employed at this time of year, the incidence of carbon monoxide poisoning and death increases.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that heating systems — fixed heaters, portable heaters, central heating systems, fireplaces and chimneys — were associated with an average of 32,900 fires and 200 fire deaths per year from 2004-06.
Also, carbon monoxide deaths have been on the rise since 1999.
So, in an effort to stem this trend, the CPSC urges consumers to:
— Schedule a yearly professional inspection of all fuel-burning home heating systems, including furnaces, boilers, fireplaces, wood stoves, water heaters, chimneys, flues and vents.
— As a second line of defense, install carbon monoxide alarms. Make sure the batteries are fresh and working. Replace the batteries annually at the spring or autumn time changes.
— Activate the test button on the CO alarm monthly to ensure proper operation.
— NEVER operate a portable gasoline powered generator in an enclosed space such as a garage, shed or crawlspace, or in the home.
— Keep portable generators as far away from the home as possible — away from open doors, windows or vents that could allow deadly carbon monoxide into the home.
— Use a space heater that has been tested to the latest safety standards and certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
— Do not use portable propane space heaters indoors or in any confined space unless they are specifically designed for indoor use. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions for proper use.
— Never use gas or electric stoves to heat the home. They are not intended for that purpose and can pose a CO or fire hazard.
And, to prevent fires, the CPSC also urges consumers to:
— Place space heaters on a level, hard, and nonflammable surface such as a ceramic tile floor, not on rugs or carpets. Keep the heater at least three feet from bedding, drapes, furniture, and other flammable materials, and keep out of the flow of foot traffic. Keep children and pets away from space heaters.
— To prevent the risk of fire, NEVER leave a space heater on when you go to sleep or place a space heater close to any sleeping person. Turn the heater off if you leave the area.
— Never use gasoline in a kerosene space heater. Even small amounts of gasoline mixed with kerosene can increase the risk of a fire.
— Have fireplace flues and chimneys inspected for leakage and blockage by creosote or debris.
— Open the fireplace damper before lighting a fire and keep it open until the ashes are cool. An open damper may help prevent build-up of poisonous gases inside the home.
— Store fireplace ashes in a fire-resistant container and cover it with a lid. Keep the container outdoors and away from combustibles. Dispose of ashes carefully keeping them away from combustibles, dry leaves or trash.
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TweetOld Navy has big after-holiday sale
Right now, online and in stores, Old Navy is having a big after-holiday sale.
The discounts are on everything from winter gear, which is 60 percent off, to upcoming spring fashions.
The store’s item of the week is jeans. Both women’s Sweetheart Boot-Cut Jeans and Diva Boot-Cut Jeans, originally $29.50 are just $19.
(Many other stores have discounts on jeans this week, as well.)
There also is a printable coupon online for use in Old Navy stores only for $10 off a purchase of $50 or more through Jan. 31.
Local Old Navy stores are in the Dayton Mall (near Sears and DSW) and across from the Mall at Fairfield Commons in the Shoppes of Beavercreek.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetAfter-Christmas sales spotlight jeans, storage
The gift-giving holidays are over, so shopping might be the last thing on your mind this weekend.
However, if you like scoring a bargain, after-Christmas sales can provide some of the best deals of the year.
Many sales this week focus on Christmas merchandise, storage options and jeans.
Christmas gear
After-Christmas sales are the best ways to stock up on ornaments, wrapping paper and cards for the next holiday season.
Through Thursday, Elder-Beerman has its holiday decorations 50 percent to 75 percent off.
Kohls has its Trim-A-Tree holiday home decor for 70 percent off through Tuesday, and all Hallmark Keepsake and American Greetings ornaments for 50 percent off. Yankee Candle holiday fragrances also are 50 percent off.
Stores marking down their Christmas merchandise by 50 percent include Christmas Tree Shops, The Home Depot and Bed, Bath & Beyond.
Meijer has Christmas merchandise for 50 percent to 75 percent off, Jo-Ann Fabrics and Crafts has its entire stock of holiday items on clearance for 70 percent off, and Office Max has 50 percent to 75 percent off its holiday clearance items.
And JCPenney has 75 percent off select Christmas items as well.
Clothes/home
Kohl’s, which previously topped out around 60 percent off for most clothing deals, is stretching into the 70 percent off realm during its current three-day sale that ends Monday.
The best deals at Kohl’s are on winter sweaters and fleece tops for the family, as well as sleepwear and robes. Denim also is on sale.
Kohl’s also has accent rugs up to 70 percent off, as well as discounts of $30 to $50 off select vacuums.
JCPenney is saying that it is having its “biggest after-Christmas sale ever” through Wednesday, with storewide savings of 60 percent off.
Flannel and fleece sheet sets also are 50 percent off, and there is the opportunity to get “instant money” from $10 to $15 with coupons found in the newspaper or online.
Elder-Beerman has some great clearance deals through Thursday, marking down select women’s fashions up to 75 percent off. Women’s jeans also are 20 percent to 50 percent off, and fashion boots are 60 percent off.
Men’s jeans at E-B are 25 percent to 50 percent off, and men’s sportswear and office clothes are up to 60 percent off.
Throws and comforters are 60 percent to 80 percent off at E-B as well.
Macy’s is all about denim in a sale today, with Levi’s for men for $32.99, plus a $10 savings card you can then use in the store (although you can’t use it on Levi’s.)
Coats are up to 65 percent off at Macy’s, as well, while select bras are buy two get one free, and shoppers can get up to 75 percent off on misses, petites and women’s sizes when used with a savings pass or Macy’s card.
There also are 350-count twin sheets for $5.99.
Kmart and Sears also are having jeans sales, and Kmart has 50 percent off all fall and winter apparel.
Stein Mart is another one thinking denim, but with a New Year-type twist. It is holding a Denim Trade-in Event through Jan. 3. Just trade in your old jeans and take $5 to $10 off another jeans purchase at the store. The old jeans will be donated to charity.
Dick’s Sporting Goods has 40 percent to 70 percent off outerwear, casual and athletic clearance clothes, as well as 40 percent off Adidas duffel bags.
Both Dick’s and Sears have hundreds of dollars in savings off exercise equipment.
The Cincinnati Premium Outlet Mall in Monroe is having after-holiday sales, including buy one item, get one for 50 percent off at Adidas, 50 percent off select bras and sleepwear at Maidenform, and 30 percent to 50 percent off select styles at Pac Sun.
Appliances/electonics
HHgregg has a sale through Wednesday on everything $99 and more, and is offering 20 percent to 30 percent off TVs, appliances, camcorders and other items $299 and higher.
The Shack is in the second day of its 48-hour after-Christmas sale, and has electronic toys for 33 percent to 50 percent off, amid other savings.
Sears also has appliances on sale, with discounts of 20 percent off Kenmore brands and 10 percent off others. If you use your Sears card, you can get an extra 5 percent off.
Dell is offering savings of up to $349 on select computer systems through Wednesday, which can be a big savings since Dell starts on the less expensive end.
This week, Target has video games that are regularly $49.99 to $59.99 on sale for $39.99, and other video games for 50 percent off.
And Verizon has 50 percent off select 3G phones today.
Organizational
Lowe’s is among the many stores getting in the New Year’s resolution spirit by offering “limited-time values on home organization” through Tuesday.
Among their discounts are 18-gallon recycled plastic totes for 2 for $7, formerly $4.50 each and a collapsible hand truck for $22.98 (regularly $29.98). Lowe’s also has shelving, adjustable wire closet kits and utility cabinets on sale.
Target also has the 18-gallon totes for $3.50, while Walmart is the cheapest on that item at $3.40.
Target also has smaller ornament boxes and wrapping paper storage items for $4 to $5, and sizable sales on stackable drawers, shelving and organizers.
Walmart has its 29-gallon and 36-gallon totes are $5.90 and $9, respectively.
The Home Depot also has shelves and storage bins on sale. Its 18-gallon totes are $3.98 each. All storage is on sale at Kmart, including bins, hangers, organizers and shelving.
Kmart’s 18-gallon tote also is $3.98.
From a different organizational standpoint — that of stockpiling — CVS/Pharmacy is having a storewide sale on select store brands, offering them for buy one, get one 50 percent off.
Office Depot has storage and flip-top totes for buy one, get one free, and Bankers Box boxes for buy two, get one free.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings, Sunday columns, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetIkea offering free breakfasts, free kids’ meals
Starting today, Dec. 26, Ikea is offering a free breakfast until 11 a.m. each day through Jan. 3.
There is a limit of one per customer, per day, and is good for a small breakfast and a cup of coffee. The meal is valued at $1.98.
Also, kids eat free from 11 a.m. to closing through Jan. 3. The kids’ meals are valued at $2.49.
Ikea also is having a sale today only on champagne flutes, marking them down from 99 cents each to 25 cents each. There is a limit of six per customer.
That sale is part of a string of one-day-only offers, which will be offered through Jan. 10.
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Free stuff, Savings
TweetDeals to be found early Saturday morning
Merry Christmas! I hope you and your family are having a happy and healthy holiday.
If you plan on shopping Saturday, Dec. 26, I just wanted to let you know about some deals to be found early in the morning.
Old Navy, which tends to sell out quickly during its one-day Saturday sales, is selling jeans for $10 to $15 Saturday.
The Deal Seeking Mom, which seems to have the inside track to the double-secret Old Navy sales, has all the dirt.
Also for you early day-after-Christmas sale shoppers, Sears and JCPenney are continuing their doorbuster deals from its early opening at 5 a.m. until 1 p.m.
The savings will be up to 25 percent off appliances at Sears and 60 percent off storewide at JCPenney.
And Kohl’s starts a three-day sale Saturday, as well, with savings pushing 70 percent.
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TweetGPS, CD recorder, cashmere sweaters on sale
We have three big deals today — two of them from Elder-Beerman and one from Macy’s.
At E-B today, Dec. 24, shoppers can get a TomTom One 130 GPS Navigation System for $99.99; it is usually $199.99.
And, even better, is the sale on the Crosley Director CD Recorder. The device, which turns vinyl or cassette tapes into CDs, is selling for $199.99 at Elder-Beerman. It retails for $400.
Over at Macy’s, cashmere sweaters are just $49.99, and they usually sell for $110.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetOnline pricing not always same as in-store
Have you ever wondered how much something cost at a particular store, so you checked its price online? I know I have.
But, it is important to note, that the price online and that in the store do not always match up — nor do they have to.
As noted in a post today, Dec. 23, on Wallet Pop, the two arms of the same store may have different price structures.
A few the site notes as sometimes having different pricing are the sites for Walmart, Best Buy and Barnes & Noble.
To make sure you are going to get the same price in the store as you are paying online, just look for words to that effect. For instance, Walmart will note “prices in store may vary.”
Or, if you still aren’t sure, call ahead to the store for a price check.
Permalink | Comments (2) | Post your comment | Categories: Consumer interest
TweetCenterville mom’s cookbook published
I have reported on the achievements of Erin Chase before — when she was helping others save money through her blog, 5dollardinners.com; when she won a year’s worth of groceries from Walmart; and when she appeared on the Rachael Ray Show, to name a few.
But the busy Centerville mom of three has found another way to help others feed their families for less, by publishing her first book: “The $5 Dinner Mom Cookbook.”
The book has 200 recipes for quick, delicious meals that each cost $5 or less to prepare. It also has “strategic” shopping, couponing and meal-planning tips.
Some of the meals include Apple Dijon Pork Roast (costs $4.30 to make), Orange Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry ($4.94) and Grilled Margarita Chicken ($4.80).
Each recipe is followed by a “frugal fact,” like “Since there are rarely coupons released for olives, be sure to buy a few extra cans of store-brand olives when they are on sale.”
The book retails for $14.99, but can be bought at Amazon for $10.19.
Or, you could get it for free, because Chase is just that nice.
She started a 10-book-a-day giveaway Tuesday on her site that will continue for two weeks. Check out her site for more details.
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TweetBlueCross BlueShield hard drive stolen; may affect 860 Ohioans
Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray and health insurance company BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee today warned consumers about a hard drive theft believed to have put the personal information of some BlueCross members at risk.
The affected individuals include more than 860 Ohioans. Cordray is advising those who are affected to closely monitor their credit reports and various financial accounts.
“When consumers’ personal information is compromised, it doesn’t necessarily mean they will become victims of identity theft,” Cordray said. “But they certainly should take extra precautions, such as carefully monitoring their credit reports and bank and credit accounts.”
Cordray’s office said that BlueCross is working with a data security consultant to send notification letters to all BlueCross members whose information was stored on the stolen devices.
Updates about the data breach are available on the BlueCross Web site, www.bcbst.com, or from the BlueCross Eastgate Response Customer Call Center at (888) 422-2786.
To protect their information, Cordray said consumers should check each of their three credit reports for free once a year at www.AnnualCreditReport.com.
Additionally, consumers should carefully monitor their credit card statements and bank account information. If identity theft occurs, the victim should file a police report and apply for the Attorney General’s Identity Theft Verification Passport Program.
For more information on identity theft precautions, contact Cordray’s office at www.SpeakOutOhio.gov or (800) 282-0515.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Scams to watch out for
TweetGuitar Hero Box Set $27.99 at Toys R Us
Toys R Us is continuing its 50 percent off deals in a sale that ends today, Dec. 23.
Among the toys that are half off are the Nextar 1GB Digital MP3 Player (now $11.47), the Impecca 2GB MP3 Player and video (now $22.49), select games (now $9.99 to $12.49), a multi-sport ramp (now $14.99) and the Imaginarium Musical Table (now $19.99).
But the best deal of them all is the Nintendo DS Guitar Hero Box Set, which has On Tour and On Tour: Decades, marked down 60 percent.
The set is now $27.99, when it used to be $69.99.
At Sears, a two-day sale starts today, and men’s jeans are featured. After discounts, the jeans cost $14.99 to $32.99.
Also at Sears, all appliances are 15 percent off.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetP&G recalls DayQuil capsules
The lack of a childproof cap on 700,000 packs of Vicks DayQuil has caused Procter & Gamble to recall the over-the-counter cold and flu medicine.
As reported by Wallet Pop and the Associated Press, the label says it is childproof, when it is not.
The recall reportedly involves only the DayQuil Cold & Flu 24-Count LiquiCaps Bonus Pack. There should be a “Bonus 20 Percent More” on a yellow banner at the top-right corner.
If you purchased one of these packs, call the company at (800) 251-3374 for a refund or replacement coupon.
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Recalls
TweetHow to spot a fake coupon
Where there are people planning to spend money, you will find people trying to get a piece of the action.
The same holds true for the growing world of couponing.
So, before you waste your time (and potentially your money) by trying to use a bogus coupon, read the Coupon Sherpa’s 9 ways to identify a fraudulent coupon.
Some of the tips include exaggerated deals or expiration dates, as well as insert coupons that are only printed on one side.
The site also notes how to report a coupon scam. You just send your records and a mailing envelope to the Coupon Information Center, P.O. Box 320224, Alexandria, VA 22320.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Consumer interest, Scams to watch out for
TweetIkea high chairs recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has recalled LEOPARD high chairs sold at Ikea Home Furnishings because they reportedly pose a fall and choking hazard to young children.
The CPSC said the snap locks used to secure the seat to the frame can break and allow the seat and child to drop through the frame, posing a fall hazard. Detached snap locks then pose a choking hazard.
Ikea has received 11 reports worldwide of failing snap locks, including one report of a child falling through the frame and suffering bruised legs.
This recall involves all colors of the LEOPARD high chairs sold as a seat and a frame individually.
Consumers should immediately stop using the high chairs and return them to any Ikea store for a full refund.
For more information, contact Ikea toll-free at (888) 966-4532 anytime, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.ikea-usa.com.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Recalls
TweetUse Santa Bucks before they head north
Meijer is offering its Santa Bucks for use toward gifts through today, Dec. 22.
The coupons are good for up to 20 percent off.
Also, through Christmas Eve, shoppers can get 5 percent off grocery purchases for every $100 spent on general merchandise. Those rebates and can be combined for a maximum of 20 percent off groceries.
They are redeemable through the end of the year.
Also, it bears noting that Christmas Day is the one day of the year that Meijer is closed.
The stores will close at 7 p.m. Thursday and reopen at 6 a.m. Saturday (note this is one hour earlier than previously reported.)
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetKohl’s kicks off last three-day sale of holiday season
Kohl’s is starting a “last-minute gift sale” today, Dec. 22, that will last through Christmas Eve.
Savings are up to 60 percent off storewide, and customers using their Kohl’s cards can get 15 percent to 30 percent off in addition to those savings.
Also, the store is giving away $10 Kohl’s Cash for every $50 spent.
Using the discount, card-holder savings and getting Kohl’s Cash back can combine for hefty savings.
One specific deal of note during this sale is a 13-piece Dockers handkerchief set for $14.99, which is usually $30 to $32.
Handkerchiefs can be hard to find these days and this set comes with a valet tray that holds keys, jewelry or pocket change.
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TweetE-tailers extend shipping deadlines
If you can’t get out to finish up your holiday shopping, it isn’t too late to shop online and not incur huge shipping fees.
According to a story by the Palm Beach Post today, Dec. 21, some online retailers have extended their shipping deadlines, with guaranteed delivery by Christmas.
Some noted in this group include:
JCPenney has half off its express shipping when ordered by Tuesday.
Amazon extended its standard shipping through the end of today, and has options for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (in “select cities”) to get your packages there on time.
And Macy’s (click on the top right truck) extended its standard shipping through 11:59 p.m. today and its express shipping through 11:59 p.m. Tuesday.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetLook out for package delivery hoax
The Ohio Attorney General, Richard Cordray, warned consumers today, Dec. 21, about a current package delivery scam.
His office noted that phony package delivery postcards are being sent to consumers that say, “pickup notice” and “sorry we missed you!”
These cards often list a package number and an 800 phone number for consumers to call, but it is all just a marketing ploy.
“It’s just a trick to get consumers to call,” Cordray said. “What makes this especially deceptive is that it’s occurring during one of the busiest times of year for sending and receiving packages.”
Consumers who receive an unexpected package notice in the mail are advised to research the delivery company before responding to the notice, including checking its reputation with the Better Business Bureau and the Attorney General’s Office.
If it seems suspicious, they say, don’t trust it.
If you receive a questionable notice of this sort, report it to Cordray’s office at www.SpeakOutOhio.gov or (800) 282-0515.
Permalink | Comments (2) | Post your comment | Categories: Scams to watch out for, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetMarket offering Last Chance Wednesday
If you are still shopping Wednesday, Dec. 23, the National City 2nd Street Market will be open for what it is calling Last Chance Wednesday.
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. the market will be selling prepared foods, wine, farm-fresh meats, cheese and produce, or handcrafted items such as pottery, candles, soaps or jewelry.
The offerings can help provide a gift, work toward party planning or just give you sustenance to make it through the last couple days of Christmas shopping.
The market, at 600 E. Second St., will close Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and reopen for regular business from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.
For more information, visit www.metroparks.org/holidays or call the market at (937) 228-2088.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Consumer interest, Local business, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetDiscounts on Christmas dinner, stocking stuffers
If you are still shopping for Christmas dinner or need some treats to stuff some stockings, many of the items needed are on sale.
As Andrea Deckard of Mommy Snacks noted, “Both Meijer and Kroger have ham on sale for $1.49 a pound, and there are a few good deals on candy to help finish filling the stockings, too!”
Here are some of Deckard’s best coupon/ad deals at area stores this week — festive or not!
Money-Maker on Nivea after Extra Care Bucks with printable coupon
Money-Maker on Listerine
Money-Maker on Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick
$1.49 Colgate Total Enamel after Register Rewards
$1.25 Poppycock
$.34 Campbell’s Tomato Soup
$.89 Stuffing Mix
$.99 Sweet Potatoes (3 Lb)
$1.49 Pineapple
$1 King’s Hawaiian Rolls with printable coupon
FREE Jell-O
$.49 Land O Lakes Butter
$1 Nestle Bagged Candy with printable coupon
FREE Dole Canned Fruit
$3.99 Quilted Northern Toilet Tissue (12 Rolls)
FREE Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa with printable coupon
FREE Rolaids
$1.49 Hershey Kisses
$.70 Lunchables with printable coupon
$1.50 Wonka Candy Canes
$.42 Blistex
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Andrea's best deals, Savings, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetDick’s has items half-off; Walmart has $8 Zhu Zhu Pets
Dick’s Sporting Goods store has lots on sale today, Dec. 21, for the sportsman or sportswoman in your life.
The deals include 50 percent off holiday licensed stockings and Santa hats in your favorite NFL teams and 50 percent off the Super Pro table tennis table, making it now $199.99.
The store also has men’s Nike Classic Fleece tops for $29.98 (regularly $35 to $50).
Also today, Walmart starts selling Zhu Zhu Pets for $8. That price also is good on other toys, including Barbie Fashionista, the Jenga Hand Held game, Pixos, Moon Sand and more.
Walmart also will have $4 DVDs and continue its $10 savings on top video games of the year.
Permalink | Comments (2) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetGift guide for parents, grandparents; great deals this week
This week’s final gift guide addresses what to get for probably the toughest group to buy for — our parents and grandparents.
The challenge in getting presents for this group is that some have everything they want and need already and don’t want another thing cluttering up their houses, and others might have physical restrictions on what they can have.
This is largely a down-to-earth group who knows what it likes. So, if you are taking a chance, make sure you get gift receipts.
The good part about buying for this group is that many good options are useful or fun, and many don’t incur the expense of items you may be buying for kids or spouses.
Here are some ideas that might be of use for our elders: Upgrade
One good gift is to improve on an item that your parent or grandparent already enjoys. Think of their hobbies. Would they like a larger TV? A better driver? A larger universal remote? A cordless electric drill? A new Christmas sweater?
Want to finally replace their VHS player with a DVD or Blu-ray player? Or, better yet, get a VHS/DVD combo so they can see their old movies and a few new ones.
Newer appliances, such as an electric can-opener or a vacuum cleaning iRobot, can be time- and effort-savers.
However, some folks might prefer using the appliances they have had for years, and not want to replace them. Fish around and make sure they would be on board with a change before you pull the trigger.
Useful
As all of us get older, some of the best gifts we can get are ones that make our lives easier. The only caveat here is to make sure that the chosen item would not offend that person by focusing on age.
Since many are on a fixed income, gift cards for groceries or department stores are good choices.
Nice presents from kids to grandparents include homemade coupon books that include coupons for cutting the grass, helping garden or performing other household tasks that allows the two to spend time together.
Another option is to put together a gift basket of things they might like — bath and body items, teas and jams, fun sweet and/or salty snacks, etc.
Calendars and magazine subscriptions are nice gifts that keep on giving, as are monthly clubs that provide books, wines, cheeses, beer and the like.
Pajamas, slippers, socks, a fuzzy robe or a nice sweat suit also can be comfortable, cozy gifts.
If your parent or grandparent no longer drives, bus passes make a nice stocking stuffer.
Sentimental
Some of the best presents for this group are those that are personal and sentimental. Pictures of grandkids are good because they will be loved for years to come.
You also can enlarge and/or frame an old, dear picture from that person’s past.
Speaking of the past, another idea is to give a gift of something that reminds your parent or grandparent of an earlier time in their lives. This can be in the form of a food or candy from when they were younger, classic music or an old movie, or a good book about an earlier time.
If you have access to information, making a family tree or offering to build one together in the coming year can be a double present of shared history and future time.
This week’s deals
If you want to upgrade your parents’ TV or your own, there are many good deals to do so utilize this week.
HHgregg has all HDTVs $99 and more on sale, and many of the TV deals throw in a free Panasonic Blu-ray player (worth $199.99) with the purchase.
The best TV deal at HHgregg is the Panasonic 50-inch Plasma HDTV for $799.97. That TV is regularly $999.97, and you also get the free Blu-ray player.
To compare, Best Buy has a 50-inch Plasma HDTV for $979, and will give you a free $100 gift card from Best Buy.
Kmart has the best deal of the three on the 32-inch HDTVs this week, offering a 32-inch Sylvania LCD HDTV for $299.99, when Best Buy and HHgregg both have comparable models for $399.
Best Buy also has 50 percent off all HBO series and box sets in store and online, savings on laptop computers and digital cameras, and a free $30 gift card when you buy an 32GB iPod Touch 3rd generation for $299.99.
Kmart also has all women’s packaged pajamas ( $19 to $24) on sale for buy one, get one free.
Sixty percent off is the general ceiling for discounts at Macy’s, JCPenney and Kohl’s this week.
Macy’s also has coupons worth more than $100 in newspapers and online.
Ulta has a free luxury robe worth $60 with the purchase of a men’s or women’s fragrance costing $30 or more and Ed Hardy appliances.
Elder-Beerman is having a sale through Tuesday, with fragrance gifts for $50 and less, and apparel for up to 60 percent off.
Michaels craft store is having a “Christmas blowout” sale through Thursday with up to 70 percent off holiday baskets, crafts, ornaments, wrap, trees, cards, etc. It is like a pre-emptive after-Christmas sale.
Office Depot has laptops, GPS, cameras and camcorders featured in its “all on sale” sale, and has the lowest price I have seen on an MP3 player — selling an Ativa 2GB Mobile IT MP3 Player with video and FM radio for $14.99.
Dick’s Sporting Goods has coupons in today’s paper for 50 percent off multiple sports balls, 50 percent off a Super Pro table tennis table, 50 percent off select apparel and 50 percent off select hunting apparel.
Staples advises shoppers to visit Staples.com/weeklyad to print off a 10 percent off a single item coupon, and has Kodak premium 4-inch-by-6-inch photo paper for $1 (after rebate), for a savings of $12.
Staples also has a 4.3-inch Garmin Nuvi 265WT GPS for $169.99, for a savings of $80.
Office Max has a Nikon Coolpix 120 digital camera and an Olympus X-Series digital camera both for $99.99, for a savings of $20 and $50, respectively.
Office Max also has deals on desk chairs, printers and shredders.
Stein Mart reports up to 75 percent off department store prices, largely on apparel, storewide. Target has board games from $2 to $20, a Roomba 400 vacuum cleaning iRobot for $99 and a 4.3-inch Garmin Nuvi 255W GPS for $119.
Big Lots has select Wii and DS games for $10, and select DVDs for four for $10.
Toys R Us, which I believe started the Zhu Zhu Pet craze, will have the little robotic hamsters for $9.99 this week.
The biggest savings at Toys R Us this week may be today and Monday, during its “savings of a lifetime.” I don’t know if I would classify it as such, but there are discounts of 25 percent to 50 percent off many toys. There seem to be fewer half-off sales at that toy store this week, compared to previous ones this season.
Speaking of Zhu Zhu pets, Walmart has them for the cheapest yet — $8 — starting Monday, amid other toy savings.
Walmart also will sell the 8GB iPod Nano for the going $145, but throw in a free $50 iTunes gift card, which is definitely the best deal this season on that hot gift. It also has multiple gifts for the home for $15.
Hours this week
Here are some of the adjusted holiday hours at area stores:
Big Lots: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. today, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, closed Friday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday.
CVS/Pharmacy: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday and closed Friday.
Dayton Mall: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. today through Wednesday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, closed Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday.
Dick’s Sporting Goods: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and closed Friday
Discount Drug Mart: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday.
GFS Marketplace: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, closed Friday.
The Greene: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. today, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, closed Friday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday.
HHgregg: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and closed Friday.
JCPenney: 7 a.m. to midnight today through Wednesday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and closed Friday.
Kmart: 6 a.m. to midnight today through Wednesday, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday and closed Friday.
Kohl’s: 6 a.m. to midnight today through Wednesday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and closed Friday.
Kroger: Open until 6 p.m. Thursday and closed Friday.
Macy’s: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. today, 7 a.m. to midnight Monday through Wednesday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and closed Friday.
Mall at Fairfield Commons: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. today through Wednesday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, closed Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday.
Meijer: Closing at 7 p.m. Thursday, closed Friday and reopening at 7 a.m. Saturday.
Office Depot: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and closed Friday.
Office Max: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and closed Friday.
Rite Aid: 8 a.m to 11 p.m. today through Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday and closed Friday.
Staples: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and closed Friday.
Target: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. today through Wednesday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, closed Friday, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday.
Toys R Us: 6 a.m. to midnight today through Wednesday, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, closed Friday.
Walgreens: 8 a.m. to midnight Thursday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday.
Walmart: Closing at 8 p.m. Thursday, closed Friday and reopening at 6 a.m. Saturday.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings, Sunday columns, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetFree $50 iTunes gift card with iPod purchase
Today, Dec. 19 — since it is the Saturday before Christmas — has a good chance of being the biggest retail shopping day of the season, as people try to get all their shopping done.
Walmart has been a major player this holiday season, effectively battling Target, Toys R Us and Meijer for the cheapest toy values, and Amazon.com for the lowest price in hardcover best-sellers, among other discounts.
So it is not as surprising that, starting today, Walmart has the deal of the season on the 8GB iPod Nano.
The iPod costs the fixed $145, but Walmart is throwing in a free $50 iTunes gift Card with the purchase starting today.
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TweetOld Navy to have sweatshirts for $3, socks for $1 Saturday
Last Saturday, I wasn’t quick enough on the trigger to put on this blog that fleece jackets were just $5 at Old Navy.
By the time I was going to post — at 8:38 a.m. Saturday — the Dayton Mall store was sold out and the Beavercreek store had one left.
But this week, I knew what to look for. And I found the good dirt at the Deal Seeking Mom.
She noted in her post today, Dec. 18, that Old Navy will be selling EZ Sweatshirts for $3 and $1 Cozy Socks this Saturday, Dec. 19.
And here is a 30 percent off coupon for use through Saturday.
The stores open at 7 a.m., and I would recommend getting there early. Or, as the awesome DSM notes in a previous post, go today and get a price adjustment Saturday.
Also, shoppers can purchase Old Navy gift cards at 20 percent off in stores through Christmas Eve.
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TweetWatch that junk mail for credit card info
Wallet Pop had a great item today, Dec. 18, about how some credit card companies are trying to implement last-minute changes before new credit card rules take effect in February that you have to opt out of to avoid new costs.
However, the mailings look a bit like junk mail and can go unnoticed, to your detriment.
Check out the post for good info on the mail and on some of the key changes to watch for.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Consumer interest, Scams to watch out for
TweetCrib warning issued, car seats recalled
Simplicity drop-side cribs have had a tough year, but not as tough as some of the families who bought them.
This week, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a warning about drop-side cribs still in use after hearing about an 11th child death.
All Simplicity drop side cribs have been recalled.
Also in child safety/recall news, Dorel has recalled 447,000 infant car seat carriers.
According to Consumer Reports, Dorel has received 77 reports of the handle fully or partially coming off the car seat/carrier resulting in at least three injuries to infants including bumps, bruises and a head injury.
This recall involves car seat/carriers branded Safety 1st, Cosco, Eddie Bauer and Disney. The stroller portion of the travel system is not affected by this recall.
Consumers should not to use the handle of the car seat/carrier until a repair kit has been installed. Parents can continue to use it as a car seat when properly installed.
For a kit or more information, callt Dorel at (866) 762-3316 or visit www.djgusa.com/safety_notice.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Recalls
TweetDeals today on cookware at Amazon, plus toy safety, sales for holiday
Many cookware items are featured in today’s Amazon Friday Sale, with savings of up to 75 percent off.
DealHack has a good roundup of items in the sale.
For those buying toys, Consumer Reports has a good guide on holiday toy-shopping safety tips, as well as some late-breaking deals to be found.
Consumer Reports also has a list of last-minute electronics gifts to get for less than $100.
For those in the market for an NFL jersey, DealHack also spotted a way to get 40 percent off at Reebok.
And, on the sports/kids end, Money Saving Methods reports how to get a free ESPN poster of your little athlete.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetMany Meijer stores have Zhu Zhu Pets today
UPDATED: Like Target earlier this week, many area Meijers received a shipment of Zhu Zhu Pets today, Dec. 18, for those in the market for the cute little robotic hamsters.
The store representative said all stores should either have them in this morning or by this afternoon at the latest. Call ahead to your local Meijer to be sure before you head out.
He added that the toys are going for a huge bargain, $7.99.
Also at Meijer, on Saturday the stores will have a supersale with in-store coupons that can be applied to toys. There reportedly will be more than 300 price drops throughout the department, for a savings up to 35 percent off.
On a final Meijer note, today’s online deal of the day is a toy as well. The BRIO My First Train Set — Squiddo is $11.99, marked down from $49.99.
Permalink | Comments (4) | Post your comment | Categories: Consumer interest, Savings, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetHave you finished Christmas shopping? Have you started?
The National Retail Federation came out with a study Wednesday, Dec. 16, showing that many people have delayed Christmas shopping this year.
According to the study, through last week, 8.6 percent of people surveyed had completed their shopping and nearly 42 million people (19.1 percent) had not even started.
Most of the late shoppers were not planning on waiting until Christmas Eve, however. The majority (35 percent) planned to finish their list by Saturday.
That makes sense, since the Saturday before Christmas is often the busiest retail shopping day of the year.
What about you?
Permalink | Comments (8) | Post your comment | Categories: Talking point, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetToday’s sales cover tools, computers, clothes and more
In addition to the offerings from Free Shipping Day online, there are a bunch of sales today, Dec. 17, at area stores to help you finish your Christmas shopping — or if you want to get a good deal for yourself.
Here is a sample of what’s out there today:
HHgregg has a 50-inch Panasonic Plasma HDTV for $699.97 (for a $300 savings) during their Christmas Everything Sale.
Macy’s is having a “best customer sale”through Monday, offering 25 percent to 60 percent off storewide, with a 15 percent to 20 percent extra savings for using your Macy’s card or savings pass.
Lowe’s has 20 percent off all vacuums and small appliances through Christmas Eve, an array of stocking stuffers for $10 and less, a free $20 Lowe’s gift card with the purchase of a KitchenAid Classic Stand Mixer for $199 and more.
The Home Depot has 40 percent off holiday clearance decorations and an exclusive Ryobi One+ 18-volt starter kit (including cordless drill, screwdriver bit, circular saw, charger and tool bag) for $89 (was $109).
Best Buy is kicking off a three-day sale with savings on computers, camcorders, TVs and more. Some of the better deals include a 4.7-inch Magellan Roadmate 1470 GPS for $149.99, for a savings of $100; a JVC Everio camcorder for $199.99 (save $70); and a Booklet 3G Nokia laptop for $199.99, for a savings of $400.
Click Camera has $30 to $100 off a variety of cameras.
Kohl’s, which seems to be shouting a bit with its large-print ads, is having three-day “power pricing” with many prices up to 60 percent off, an extra 15 percent to 30 percent off for using your Kohl’s charge card, and $10 Kohl’s Cash back for every $50 spent.
By the way, Kohl’s online deal of the day today is a Fisher-Price Smart Cycle Physical Learning Arcade System with Bonus Elmo Software for $59.99, and it is regularly $99.99.
Ace Hardware has 50 percent off all in-stock Trim-A-Tree decorations, amid other savings. And there is a $5 off a $20 or more purchase Santa Handy Bucks coupon on Page A9 of today’s Dayton Daily News.
At Old Time Pottery (651 Lyons Road), the discounts have been increased to 50 percent off in the store’s going-out-of-business sale.
And, speaking more to the stocking up end of the holiday, Cub Foods has Coke 12-packs for 4 for $11 through Sunday.
Permalink | Comments (2) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetToday is Free Shipping Day
If you need to finish Christmas shopping and want to save time and money, you are in luck.
Because today, Dec. 17, is the second annual Free Shipping Day.
This event involves hundreds of e-tailers offering free shipping with guaranteed delivery by Christmas Eve, which is now just one week away.
Some of the merchants may have minimum-order restrictions, but the majority reportedly will have free shipping on all orders.
To see a compilation of the sites participating and links to those stores, visit the FreeShippingDay.com site.
For its own list and some free shipping coupons and information for nearly 2,000 sites, visit FreeShipping.org.
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Free stuff, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetSome not-quite-last-minute gift ideas and deals
It isn’t really last-minute shopping, yet, but several sites have been putting together lists of good places to get gifts in a hurry, and for a discount.
Consumer Reports reported Tuesday, Dec. 15, on last-minute electronics gifts that can be purchased for less than $300.
ShopSmart; has a nice list of sites selling unique items that were suggested by its readers.
They include BeerOnTheWall.com and GreenFeet.com.
And Mommy Snacks had posts on some nice Christmas freebies — like how to get free photos and a free photo calendar, how to get free Sharpies and batteries at Staples and how to get free MP3 downloads at Amazon.
The site also has routes to discounts on magazine subscriptions.
And there is another site that is devoted to the last-minute gift idea — lastminute-giftideas.com — that has many Christmasy ideas that can be obtained quickly.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings, Thanksgiving and Christmas
Tweet50% off toys at Discovery.com; 70% off toys at Amazon
If only my boys were still into dinosaurs.
Today, Dec. 16 only, as reported by DealHack, the Discovery Channel Store is slashing (like a velociraptor) all of its toys by 50 percent.
To get the deal, use coupon code “EMPLOYEE50” during checkout. Other holiday discounts are also available.
The Discovery Channel Store has a great variety of fun and educational toys.
In other toy deal news today, Amazon is marking down toys up to 70 percent in its toy outlet.
And Money Saving Methods has a route to getting the Transformers Racetrack (regularly $49.99) for 80 percent off. See the site for details.
Permalink | Comments (2) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetBig one-day sales today at Toys R Us, Macy’s
In what it is calling its “last one-day sale before Christmas,” Macy’s is offering deals today, Dec. 16, on jewelry, luggage, down comforters, coats, jackets and more.
Check out the ad on the Macy’s site to get specifics on the sale, and to get the pass worth $10 off a purchase of $25 or more.
The pass is only good between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m.
At Toys R Us today, the store is offering its now standard 50 percent off deals, as well as other discounts of 25 percent to 40 percent off.
You can check out the toys that are half off in the ad online. They include the Nextar 2GB MP3 Player (now $14.77), select DS games and Fisher-Price My First Skates (now $12.49).
Also notable is that Toys R Us is still offering its free shipping on orders of $49 or more on select items.
Note also, that Thursday is Free Shipping Day at hundreds of e-tailers, including Toys R Us and Macy’s.
One of the stores that is having good two-day sales these days is Elder-Beerman, which has 20 percent to 60 percent off storewide, bonus buys and the ability to get a $10 coupon for every $50 spent.
Meijer also is kicking off a two-day sale, has marked down items throughout the store and is offering a discount coupon for 10 percent off general merchandise or apparel $19.97 and up.
Kohl’s is finishing up a two-day sale, with “Christmas specials” of 50 percent to 60 percent off, $10 Kohl’s Cash for every $50 spent and added discounts of up to 30 percent off for using your Kohl’s charge card.
And finally, Sears is starting a three-day “gift sale” today, with savings up to 60 percent off as well on women’s coats, activewear, fleece and sweaters — among other items.
Of note also is that Macy’s, Toys R Us, Elder-Beerman and Kohl’s all open early — at 7 a.m. — for these sales.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetFree cookie deal at Cheryl & Co. site
Here is an awesome online deal if you like cookies or, better yet, if you need a nice cookie-filled present for a teacher or friend.
Mommy Snacks noted today, Dec. 15, that Cheryl & Co. is offering six cookies and a $10 gift card for free, plus shipping costs ($6.95).
Visit the site and search for “42711” to see if it is still active. The cookies likely will go fast.
If you haven’t tried the cookies, Cheryl & Co. outlets are at The Greene and next to Books & Co. at Town & Country.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetTarget gets new shipment of Zhu Zhu pets
The Target stores at Sugarcreek Twp., Beavercreek and Huber Heights got new batches of Zhu Zhu pets (the hot toy this season) this morning. But if you are in the market, you’d better get them fast — the Sugarcreek store rep said they usually sell out within an hour.
I talked to her at 9 a.m.
The Beavercreek Target rep said they have a bunch, but noted that Target is selling them at one per guest.
The Dayton Mall and Trotwood Target stores are sold out, according to their reps.
Also, you can get the pets at Amazon, although they are marked up due to demand.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Good ideas, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetSpending less on gifts this year? If so, why?
CNN reported Monday, Dec. 14, that half of all American shoppers will be spending less this year than last year.
Of the other half, 39 percent said they would spend at 2008 levels, while 12 percent indicated they would spend more.
Those findings aren’t surprising, given our economy, but I was curious if more were spending less because they had to, because they are trying to ride out the economic storm without making many waves or because they had so many more tools now that allow them to save money.
What about you? First off …
And secondly …
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Consumer interest, Talking point, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetOld Navy has 20% off plus more sales online
DealHack noted a great bargain at Old Navy that is good through Tuesday, Dec. 15.
Shoppers can save an extra 20 percent off all apparel orders storewide at Old Navy.
Many items on the site are already on sale; some as part of this week’s “holi-deals.”
To get the extra 20 percent off, use the coupon code “ONSAVE20” at checkout.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings
TweetKids eat free at Mexican chain this weekend
On Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 19-20, area Qdoba restaurants are celebrating the introduction of their kids’ meal options by offering a kids’ eat free weekend.
Restaurant News noted that any child 12 and younger qualifies for the free meal, with the purchase of one regular entree.
And, according to the representative at the Dayton Qdoba, kids also can eat free under the same conditions on Tuesdays after 4 p.m.
There are Qdoba restaurants in Dayton and Beavercreek.
In other restaurant deal news, Benihana has a great birthday deal.
If you become a member of The Chef’s Table, you get a complimentary Benihana Birthday Dinner certificate, maximum value of $30 (excludes alcoholic beverages, gratuity and tax) that will be e-mailed to you for use during the month of your birthday.
The closest Benihana is in Cincinnati.
Also, First Watch has a deal now through Dec. 24 offering customers who purchase $100 in gift cards from First Watch restaurants $20 in bonus bucks.
There are First Watch restaurants in Beavercreek, Kettering and at the Dayton Mall.
And Abuelo’s, located at 2420 N. Fairfield Road, is holding an annual holiday gift card promotion as well.
Guests who purchase $50 of Abuelo’s gift cards get a gift of their own — a $10 Abuelo’s voucher to use at a later date.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Free stuff, Restaurant deals, Savings
TweetGet an Entertainment Book for $9, and other top deals this week
Andrea Deckard of Mommy Snacks notes some of the best area deals this week.
“If you want to take your savings to get some great Christmas presents, I have several ideas for free items (just pay shipping) on my site,” she said.
Also of note on Deckard’s site is a post about how you can get the 2010 Entertainment Book for $9.
The Entertainment Books can save you thousands of dollars in goods and services through November 2010.
“That is the lowest price anyone will find on the book,” she said, adding that the price has been extended until Dec. 21.
Here are Deckard’s best deals at area stores this week, Dec. 13-19:
Money-Maker on Bic and Soleil Razors after Extra Care Bucks
FREE Advil
$1.99 All Laundry Detergent
$2 Money-Maker on Triaminic - see the details on the Register Rewards!
$1 Money-Maker on Complete Multi-Purpose Solution
$4.25 Huggies diapers after RR and Rebate
$.95 Season’s Choice California Medley
$1.49 Navel Oranges (4 Lb Bag)
$1.49 Pineapple
FREE Creamette Pasta
$.33 Campbell’s Cream Soups with Printable Coupon
$.38 Mt. Olive Products
FREE Tennessee Pride coupon with printable coupon
FREE Dole Canned Fruit
$.30 Birds Eye Veggies
$1.17 Wonka Candy with printable coupon
$1.24 Cheez-It
Great gift card offer for a Wii - it’s $169 after Gift Card!
$.75 Ronzoni Pasta with printable coupon
$.38 Steamfresh White Rice
$.75 Wish-Bone Salad Dressing
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Andrea's best deals, Savings, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetFree Shipping Day is Thursday
Just a heads up for those who are running a bit behind in their Christmas shopping — your delay could save you money.
On Thursday, Dec. 17, it is Free Shipping Day. On that day, at 586 e-tailers and counting (according to the Free Shipping site) there will be free shipping with guaranteed delivery by Christmas Eve.
The site notes that some merchants may have minimum order restrictions, but more than half will have free shipping on all orders.
To see the list of stores participating (and if it has increased since this post was published), visit the Free Shipping site.
And, as noted by ShopSmart; magazine, if you’ve already bought gifts and are wondering how much time you have to ship them, here are cut-off dates for the big shipping companies:
Fed Ex: Thursday, Dec. 17 for Fed Ex ground. Rush delivery buys you more time.
UPS: Wednesday, Dec. 16 (see online calculator to see if you have more time).
United States Postal Service: Wednesday, Dec. 16 for shipping deadlines; Monday, Dec. 21 for first class.
For a link to rush delivery dates, see the ShopSmart; site.
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Free stuff, Savings, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetBuying guide for spouses, friends, siblings
In this, our second of three gift-buying guides for the holidays, the focus is on spouses, siblings and friends, as well as good gifts to give from one couple to another.
More so than with kids, considering the likes and dislikes of the recipient is key to shopping for this group. So here are some suggestions to point you in the right direction.
And, if you are still stuck, near the end is my list of the top 10 hottest gifts to give this year.
For next week’s gift guide, we will take a look at gift ideas for parents and grandparents, and take a look at prices for the final week of Christmas shopping.
Significant others
In theory, buying for your husband or wife should be easy since your spouse is the person to whom you are likely closest. But, as all of us old married folks know, that is not always the case.
Between making purchases for each other throughout the year and living and working with that person every day, many of us can run out of ideas or skew toward the utilitarian.
For example, your might be so tired of buying your husband disposable razors that you might think he needs an electric razor more than an iPod.
Depending on the person, either gift could work. Just don’t veer off into toaster or Epilady country without express instructions to do so.
The real key is to take a minute and think about how your spouse spends his or her day, what could make their lives easier and what you think they would most like to do with their downtime.
Then there is the issue if you are sharing money with that person, and buying for them with that money.
While some spouses wouldn’t mind if you to spent a great deal, others would be happier come Christmas morning if you kept a little more padding in the bank account.
Consider your spouse’s prediliction before making a larger purchase.
Also, some married couples consider jointly buying presents that would benefit them both, such as a TV, tickets to a game or play, a vacation or new flooring for the house.
This route takes the surprise out of the occasion, but can be a more efficient and safer use of funds.
Gift cards also can be a good option between spouses if you have a general direction, but aren’t sure exactly what to get.
Rather than get the wrong sweater or drill, get them a gift card to their favorite store.
This route may not be wildly romantic, but it is practical and can be fun (kind of like marriage).
But, as always with gift cards, make sure they are from a solid retailer — one that you think has little chance of going out of business.
Friends and siblings
The best part about buying for friends and siblings is you might know them as well as a significant other, but there is less pressure to provide that perfect gift.
These gifts also are usually less expensive than gifts between spouses, and often apply more to the wants than needs of the individual.
Think about the interests you share with a friend when thinking of gift ideas, or plan an outing together. Go to a movie and have lunch, or get them a gift certificate for them to go golfing with you in the spring.
For siblings, it can be fun to think about memories you share and get a present that evokes that time in your lives.
For example, my brother and I used to watch the strange little cartoon “Danger Mouse” together when we were kids, so last year I got him a DVD of the cartoon and a T-shirt of Danger Mouse.
Now his kids watch it with him.
Couple to couple
Like the friend-to-friend gifts, couple-to-couple gifts are best if you go with gifts that speak to your shared interests. And gifts of outings can be fun for both couples or for the entire families.
Gifts of games you can play together are another way to go.
You can also make a charitable donation in the other couple’s name.
For new friends, this may be a way to get to know that friend better by giving them something that will help you all get to know each other better; share a favorite movie, CD or a good bottle of wine.
Other fun gifts to give a couple are things the pair can do by themselves, like give them a his and hers spa day. You can sweeten the deal by volunteering to baby-sit the kids.
Hot Christmas gifts for adults in 2009
If you still aren’t sure and need an idea, here are our top 10 gifts for adults this year, in no particular order, at a variety of price points:
iPod: The iPod is just growing in popularity, and there are many versions available. On the higher end is the iPod Touch (up to $300), and on the lower end is the iPod Shuffle (around $50). The MP3 Player is a cheaper alternative to an iPod, and it costs around $30.
Wii game console: The Wii is cheaper this year — $199, rather than $249 — and can be more easily obtained. This gaming system is one that has something for the entire family. Look for deals that include free games or controllers.
Smart phone: Whether you are enamored of the iPhone or like what you have heard about the new Droid, the benefits of having a computer in your pocket are hard to dismiss. Both usually cost at least $200, and the service plans are additional.
Kindle: Amazon.com calls the Kindle the “No. 1 best-selling, No. 1 most wished for, No. 1 most gifted product” on the site. The wireless reading device is still pretty expensive, though, and costs $259 for a 6-inch version and $489 for a 9.7-inch style on Amazon.
Target has a 5-inch Sony Digital Reader for $199, if that’s more in your price range.
A good book: If you, like me, are still into the old-fashioned book form of reading, a couple hot titles this year are the novels “The Lacuna,” by Barbara Kingsolver, and “Cutting For Stone,” by Abraham Verghese, and nonfiction books “Ayn Rand and The World She Made,” by Anne C. Heller, and “The Case for God” by Karen Armstrong.
Both Amazon.com and Walmart.com have incredible deals on hard-cover best-sellers this season.
TV on DVD: If you don’t yet have your TV hooked up to your computer and watch previous episodes of your favorite shows online, TV shows on DVD can make good gifts. Since many of us are strapped for time, being able to watch what we want, when we want is a distinct pleasure.
Recipe book or cool kitchen appliance: To save money, more people are eating at home. If you have a favorite recipe book or a kitchen appliance that makes cooking more fun and/or easier, share it with a friend. For a fun new gadget, check out The Mince N’ Slice from Progressive. It minces, juliennes and slices, and retails for $18.99.
Flip video camcorder: These video cameras are small, cute, easy to use and make uploading videos to your computer simple. They also come in a variety of styles and colors. Prices range from $99.99 (on sale at Amazon) to $199.99.
Give a tree: For environmentally conscious friends and family, the Arbor Day Foundation has a program that allows you to Give the Gift of Trees this holiday season. They cost just $3 each and come in a recyclable tube that converts into a birdfeeder after the tree is planted. For more information, visit www.ArborDay.org.
Cash: In this tougher economy, in which more people could use the money and gift cards could be bought to stores that then go belly-up, cash can be the best gift. Stick the greenbacks in a cool coffee mug or a box of candy for added flair.
Best deals this week
Target is my pick for store of the week, based on good sales on toys and electonics.
It has a Garmin Nuvi GPS for $99 (regularly $149), and is running a special on Nintendo DS games, selling them for $25 each (they usually run between $30 and $40).
The store also is selling the Nintendo DSI for $169.99, and throwing in a free $10 Target gift card.
The iPod Nano 8GB is also on sale at Target this week but, although you can get a good deal, you can get a slightly better deal at Toys R Us.
At Target, that iPod is $145, and you get a $10 gift card back. At Toys R Us, the iPod is $145 and you get a $15 gift card back.
The Shack, formerly known as Radio Shack, also is getting in on this action. It is selling the iPod for $149.99, and offering a $15 gift card back, making its price comparable to Target’s.
Toys R Us also is continuing its 50 percent off sale, offering select toys for half off.
This week, the sale includes the Razor “A” Scooter is $19.99 (regularly $39.99).
Kohl’s is having a two-day sale that includes many deals for the home.
The Magic Chef microwave is $59.99 (reg. $99.99), the Presto Cool Touch griddle is $14.99 (reg. $39.99) and the Hamilton Beach 8-quart slow cooker is $24.99 (reg. $49.99). These deals involve a $10 rebate.
Office Depot has 50 percent off Sony DVD movies this week, and Kmart has select DVDs for $5.
Office Max is having a $99.99 sale on the Nextar GPS, camcorders, digital cameras and more. Walmart has a deal on an iHome Portable Speaker — which plays iPhone, iPod, Zune and MP3 players — for $19, and preschool toys for $5.
Sears has coats for the family for 60 percent off, Fashion Bug has Sherpa Boots for $12,PetSmart is having a sale on its gifts for pets and Cincinnati Bell is offering free phones with the purchase of an activation plan.
Also, Macy’s is having a 25 percent to 50 percent off sale storewide.
Permalink | Comments (6) | Post your comment | Categories: Savings, Sunday columns
TweetFree tax help on TurboTax site
If you need a break from purely Christmas-oriented deals, TurboTax is here to help, with an assist from Wallet Pop.
The tax service and software’s “Ask an Expert” promotion, which is usually in January, started last week and runs through Jan. 31.
The helpline is staffed by trained IRS enrolled agents, and normally costs $29.95 for 20 minutes and $19.95 for an additional 20 minutes.
How it works is you submit your question on the TurboTax site and choose a two-hour window within 24 to 48 hours to be contacted by a tax professional who has already looked at your question.
But make your question a good one because the free tax advice is limited to one call per person.
There is additional tax advice available at the TurboTax Live Community as well.
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TweetRaise money for kids with a kind note
If you’ve been to Dayton Mall recently, perhaps you noticed the Magical Season of Giving Mural by JCPenney.
The mural is part of the “Every Child is a Treasure,” interactive community art project.
How it works is Dayton Mall customers write their thoughts about why children are treasures on golden treasure chests and affix them to the mural.
For every paper treasure chest on the wall, the Dayton Mall will make a donation of $1 to Hannah’s Treasure Chest, a local nonprofit agency, up to a total of $5,000.
Also, from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, the mall will host a Treasure Chest Craft Event on the lower level near JCPenney.
Kids can decorate their own treasure chest, which they can take home and fill with their very special treasures.
Hannah’s Treasure Chest has been helping area children in need since 2001.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Of general interest, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetYes, Virginia, there are free Macy’s gift cards
Today only, Dec. 11, Macy’s locations nationwide will celebrate what it has declared to be National Believe Day by offering a free $10 Macy’s gift card to anyone named Virginia (first or last name) between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., while supplies last. ID is required.
The Virginia the store is honoring is the famous Virginia O’Hanlon, who in the late 1800s, wrote to the editor of the New York Sun newspaper inquiring about the existence of Santa Claus and inspired what is arguably the most famous editorial in history.
It also is celebrating the debut of the Macy’s animated TV special, “Yes, Virginia,” that will air at 8 p.m. tonight on CBS. Click here for a sneak peek.
Other parts of this campaign include collecting letters to Santa in Santa’s Post Office at the stores and donating $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation for every letter received up to $1,000,000.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Free stuff, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetHow to get $5 off $25 purchase at Meijer
If you sign up for Meijer alerts via e-mail, prerecorded phone message or text message, you can get a coupon for $5 your next food purchase of $25 or more.
According to local wheeler and dealer Karen Baird of Miamisburg, the offer is better than the one that was sent by mail.
“For that deal (via mail), you have to spend $100 on groceries this week (by Saturday), to get a $10 off coupon for your next grocery purchase of $50 or more,” she said.
To sign up for the $5 off $25 offer, see the Meijer site.
And, if you haven’t yet, check out the MealBox deals while you are on the site.
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TweetUp to 75% off Hasbro games at Amazon
Even if you wanted to, I don’t know if you could pay full list price for a toy this year.
In the latest toy sale news, Amazon is having a great sale on Hasbro games, with discounts of up to 75 percent off.
Hasbro sells Monopoly, Scrabble, The Game of Life and many other popular games.
Another toy sale I came across today from a more unlikely source was one at Pottery Barn Kids.
There are discounts of 30 percent to 75 percent on toys, as well as on clothes, furniture, bedding and decor.
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TweetBuy one suit, get two free today only
Today, Dec. 10, only, JoS. A. Bank is offering a winner of a holiday deal — buy one suit and get two free.
Now, some of the suits are pricey and cost around $1,000, but there are other suits for as low as $350. The deal lets you get the two free suits at equal or lesser value to the one purchased at regular price. This could provide a savings, for those needing good suits, of $700 to $2,000.
The suits, as noted by DealHack, come in dozens of styles, including two- and three-button designs in a variety of fabrics and colors.
Also this week at JoS. A. Bank, all dress shirts are 50 percent off.
The site also offers free shipping for orders of $175 or more.
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TweetNew Santa Bucks come to town today
Today, Dec. 9, and Thursday, Meijer is offering its cash-back Santa Bucks on goods throughout the store and online.
The Santa Bucks offer $4 to $30 off purchases of $19.97 to $149.97 and up.
Meijer also has separate sales on jewelry, toys and electronics, and is in the midst of a 10 for $10 sale, in which you get the 11th item for free.
You can pick up your Santa Bucks coupons at the store (either at the door or the service desk) or you can download them online.
The Santa Bucks are good for general merchandise, but exclude groceries and some other items, as noted on the Bucks.
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TweetOne-day sales + $10 coupons today at E-B, Macy’s
Elder-Beerman is having a big one-day sale today, Dec. 9, with thousands of items 30 percent to 50 percent off storewide.
Also today, E-B card holders can earn triple the rewards points.
The store also is having a two-day sale online, today and Thursday, with the same discounts.
And, through Christmas, E-B is offering a deal in which you can get a $10 coupon back for every $50 spent at the store.
There also are coupons online you can use in the store today and Thursday.
Macy’s also is having a one-day sale in stores and online today, with savings of 30 percent to 50 percent off as well.
The store also has a “Wow! Pass” that will get you an extra $10 a purchase of $25 or more on most items in the store.
That pass can be found on Page A5 of today’s Dayton Daily News or can be downloaded online.
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TweetVerizon, TracFone top cell phone ratings
If you are shopping for a cell phone this holiday season, it is a good idea to pick up the January 2010 issue of Consumer Reports.
The issue costs $5.99 or you may be able to find it at a local library and read it for free. In that issue, the magazine rated cell phone providers and cell phones, including smart phones and prepaid cell phones.
It concluded that the top cell phone service overall was Verizon. The top Verizon cell phone was the LG enV Touch, and top Verizon smart phone was the HTC Touch Pro2.
Right now, Verizon.com is offering phones for free with a two-year service agreement. In stores, Verizon has select buy one, get one free deals (with mail-in rebate) through Christmas.
The top provider of prepaid cell phone service, according to the magazine, was TracFone. TracFone’s top model was the Samsung T301G.
Currently, Walmart.com is offering TracFone deals, including double minutes for life on select models.
Do you agree with Consumer Reports’ findings?
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TweetBaby hammock recalled due to suffocation risk
About 24,000 Amby Baby Motion Beds were recalled today, Dec. 8 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission due to the suffocation risk they pose.
The CPSC said the side-to-side shifting or tilting of the hammock can cause the infant to roll and become entrapped or wedged against the hammock’s fabric and/or mattress pad, resulting in a suffocation hazard.
Amby Baby is aware of two infant suffocation deaths in the Amby Baby hammock.
The bed was sold online at Ambybaby.com and other Internet retailers from January 2003 through October 2009 for about $250.
It is strongly recommended that consumers immediately stop using the Amby Baby beds and contact Amby Baby USA for a free repair kit at (866) 544-9721 or www.ambybaby.com.
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TweetDavid’s Bridal having $99 sale
If you are looking for a wedding gown, David’s Bridal is looking for you.
Now through Dec. 14, David’s Bridal is having a $99 sale on select bridal gowns. Reportedly, it is a savings of $50 to $300.
Customers also can get $20 off each bridesmaid and junior bridesmaid dress when they purchase their bridal gown.
David’s Bridal is at 7-15 Prestige Plaza Drive in Miamisburg. For more information, call (937) 434-8501.
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TweetEvenFlo recalls activity learning center toy
Apparently, kids can’t have their toy cake because they may eat it, too.
Today, Dec. 8, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the recall of 66,000 Evenflo ExerSaucer 1-2-3 Tea for Me Activity Learning Centers, because the candle flame attached to the top of the cake toy can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.
Evenflo, based in Miamisburg, reportedly has received 11 reports of the toy flames detaching. No injuries have been reported.
The ExerSaucer was sold at Toys R Us and juvenile product stores nationwide from December 2007 through March 2009 for about $70.
Consumers should immediately remove the cake toy from the product and contact Evenflo to receive a free replacement toy.
The ExerSaucer can be used without the cake toy.
For more information, contact Evenflo at (800) 233-5921 or visit safety.evenflo.com.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Recalls
TweetZhu Zhu Pets clearing their good name
The spotlight was making Mr. Squiggles sweat for a couple of days, but the robot hamster appears to be off the hook.
This year’s hot toy, the Zhu Zhu Pet Hamster, had been flagged by a consumer group for containing a substance that can be harmful to children.
The consumer group GoodGuide reportedly found antimony, which can cause health problems, on the hair and nose of Mr. Squiggles, one of the toy hamsters.
However, the pet manufacturer, Cepia LLC, maintained that the hamster is “absolutely safe and has passed the most rigorous testing in the toy industry for consumer health and safety.”
And it appears that Cepia knows its furry friends best.
After the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission began running additional tests on the toys, GoodGuide came out with news that their testing had been in error after all.
As the Wall Street Journal reported Monday night, GoodGuide released the following statement:
“While we accurately reported the chemical levels in the toys that we measured using our testing method, we should not have compared our results to federal standards. We regret this error.”
The CPSC will finish its query, but these sources say that in all likelihood the toy is a safe choice for kids.
But on the topic of truly troubled toys, the U.S. Public Interest Research Group recently released its list of toys to avoid in 2009.
“The 2009 Trouble in Toyland report … provides safety guidelines for parents when purchasing toys for small children and provides examples of toys currently on store shelves that may pose potential safety hazards.”
For a complete list of the toys on their list, download the full report from the PIRG site.
Permalink | Comments (2) | Post your comment | Categories: Consumer interest, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetTips to getting your rebates fast
Rebates are often used to entice shoppers to buy an item with the promise of cash back, and can provide sizable discounts when all is said and done.
However, there are can be pitfalls to the rebate system. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission is urging buyers not to be “baited” by rebates that never arrive or arrive far later than promised.
Toward this end, the FTC encourages consumers to take certain steps to ensure they get their rebate in a timely manner.
The Coupon Sherpa threw in its two cents as well, and put together a list of 13 tips to receive your rebate promptly.
Both entities stress being on top of paperwork, following instructions and filing a complaint if the company does not meet its obligation.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment | Categories: Consumer interest, Thanksgiving and Christmas
TweetWalmart, Sam’s Club donate gift bags to Children’s
This post is not about bargains, but it is a nice feel-good item involving some local employees.
Today, Dec. 8, Walmart and Sam’s Club associates from Dayton, Beavercreek, Xenia, Miamisburg, Huber Heights, Piqua, Springfield and surrounding areas are visiting Children’s Medical Center of Dayton to donate gift bags for the hospital staff and patients.
They also donate gift bags for staff at the Children’s Home Care of Dayton.
The store and associates have been doing this for 10 years.
“Every year we come to Dayton Children’s, it’s great to see the kids and staff faces light up, especially during the holiday season,” said David Gose, director of operations of the Walmart Midwest Division, Ohio. “We believe in giving back locally to the communities we serve.”
Debbie Butner, Children’s Miracle Network manager for Dayton Children’s, said the hospital is very grateful to Walmart, Sam’s and all of the donors who give their time and resources to help make the holiday season joyful.
“We are committed to provide our patients the best pediatric care, and that includes providing cheer during the holiday season,” Butner said.
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: Of general interest
Tweet$10 off $10 purchase at JCPenney.com
Mommy Snacks had a great post today about how to get $10 off $10 purchase at JCPenney.com.
The site also details how to get a good deal on shipping and links to other online deals.
Also at JCPenney.com today, the online daily deal is adonna Flannel Pants, regularly $20 to $22, are just $8.99 to $9.99.
That discount is good in stores today as well.
In stores through Tuesday, Dec. 8, JCPenney is having a good shoe sale, with up to 60 percent off women’s boots and athletic shoes marked down $10 to $20.
Also during this sale, select men’s Dockers are marked down from $52 to $29.99, and men’s athletic apparel is $19.99.
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TweetGoing out of business sale at Old Time Pottery
Old Time Pottery is having a big going out of business sale, with savings of 10 percent to 30 percent throughout the store.
“Everything’s got to go,” according to store management, “even the fixtures.”
The store, already known for its discounts, is located in the Washington Park Plaza, 651 Lyons Road, in Dayton. It is across Lyons Road from Sam’s Club.
The sale will go through Jan. 31, or while supplies last.
For more information, call (937) 312-9583.
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TweetTumbleweed has buy one, get one free dinners
Tumbleweed Southwest Grill is continuing its deal offering one of 12 entrees for buy one, get one free.
The deal is Monday through Thursday, dine-in only, and runs through Dec. 17.
The restaurant also has daily specials, and today’s is Margarita Monday, with the classic drink for just 99 cents, served on-the-rocks or frozen in traditional lime.
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TweetNFL jerseys among top deals today
At NFLshop.com, today, Dec. 7, only, there are 20 percent off all jerseys.
Jerseys can be extremely expensive, so any discount is welcomed. If you are not as picky about the team or player name, sometimes you can find a jersey in great shape at an area thrift store as well, for much less than these savings.
The NFL Shop is running a deal each day this season, like Kohl’s and many other stores.
The deal for the day at Kohl’s today is 50 percent off Fisher-Price toys. Fisher-Price has been on sale at many outlets this year.
At Amazon.com, today’s Gold Box deal is the complete series of “Arrested Development” on DVD, which is originally $109.94, and today is $28.99. The item qualifies for free super saver shipping as well.
Dell’s deal today, in its 8 days of deals, is an Inspiron 15 laptop computer for $549. That is after $249 instant savings.
Woot! has a Toshiba 26-inch LCD HDTV with built-In DVD Player for $299.99 today.
The Consumerist has a good roundup of online deals today, including 30 percent off a $50 purchase at adidas with a coupon.
The adidas deal expires Wednesday.
And DealHack has a list of online deals for today, as well. DealHack’s list includes 30 percent off the list price of any one item at Borders.com.
That deal is good through Dec. 17.
For Sam’s Club members, the deal of the day is an Xbox 360 Wireless Controller Gaming Pack for $44.86. The pack is 59.99 at Xbox.com.
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TweetAll cans of Slim-Fast recalled
The Food & Drug Administration announced that all cans of Slim-Fast ready-to-drink products have been recalled due to the possibility of contamination with bacteria.
The bacteria, Bacillus cereus, may cause diarrhea and nausea and/or vomiting. The probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.
Only canned Slim-Fast drinks are listed in the recall, according to Consumer Reports.
For the full list of recalled items, see the FDA site.
Consumers who have purchased Slim-Fast products in cans are urged to discard them immediately and contact the company at (800) 896-9479 for a full refund.
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TweetHoliday crafts, fabrics up to 60% off
If you have Christmas projects you want to complete and need supplies, area craft stores have deals of note this week.
Hancock Fabrics and Jo-Ann Fabrics and Crafts have marked down much of their Christmas items up to 60 percent this week, and Michaels has sales of up to 50 percent off.
Hancock Fabrics is having a four-day Jingle Bell Sale, that started Sunday, Dec. 6, and lasts through Wednesday.
There are sleigh bells ringing with deals of 50 percent to 60 percent off on novelty fleece, Christmas ribbon, Christmas Fabrics and more.
At Jo-Ann, holiday inspirations, Christmas decor, ornaments and wrapping paper are among the items 60 percent off through Saturday.
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TweetHere’s the Deal on buying gifts for kids
The holiday season is upon us, and the shopping has begun.
For the next three weeks in this Here’s the Deal column, we will look at gift ideas for those on your Christmas list and note the current sales in the Dayton area.
This first guide is all about buying for the biggest Christmas lovers of all — the kids.
For news on sales this week, check the end of this post.
Babies
Buying for babies up to around a year old may seem tough, but can be quite easy. Just know that, no matter what you get them, it will likely be chewed on or flung wildly across the room — just how they like it.
You do get a few extra points for toys that make funny noises when they land, though.
Clothes: Baby clothes are as fun to shop for as they are for the parents to receive, and the sizes are conveniently labeled according to age. It always helps to buy a size larger than the target age group, though, to allow for room to grow.
Good clothes to give at this time of year include cute winter hats and booties, warm fuzzy pajamas with feet or fleece hoodies.
Toys: As noted, toys that make noise or are chewable are key, and throw in some lights and sounds and you have a winner.
Stacking plastic rings, rattles, bath toys, puppets, pop-up toys, musical inchworms, blocks and stuffed animals also are good, but make sure they are made for children this young, and do not pose a choking hazard.
Books: If they don’t already own them, you can’t go wrong with classic board books like “Goodnight Moon” by Margaret Wise Brown and Clement Hurd and “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle. Books that engage babies through touch, such as “Pat the Bunny” by Dorothy Kunhardtare, and “Touch and Feel Farm” by DK Publishing are good as well.
Toddlers
Kids between the ages of 1 and 2 are fun to buy for because their personalities are starting to show.
Clothes: Whether sweet and frilly or rough and rugged, there are pretty dresses and team sweat shirts (possibly from their mom or dad’s favorite team) that will fit the bill.
And, at this age, you can sometimes get away with the cute hats and shoes that their older siblings might refuse to wear.
Toys: A toddler often will like a toy that he or she can interact with, like a toy phone, push-and-pull toys, balls, toys that fit together and stackable blocks.
Baby dolls, Elmo and Dora the Explorer start to get popular at this age, as well. Books: Toddlers are into board books, but you can expand their libraries with books about the holiday, or ones that teach numbers, letters, colors or shapes.
Preschoolers
When kids get to be between the ages of 3 and 5, they have distinct likes and dislikes. This can make gift-buying tougher, in that they may not like just any gift they are given. However, if you know what they like, it can give you a better idea of what to buy.
Clothes: This is still a fun age to buy clothes for, but the kids would probably prefer toys.
Toys: Dolls become more popular between the ages of 2 and 4, as do trucks and other toys that will do what you make them do.
Some other good gift ideas for kids younger than 5 are musical instruments, art supplies, play kitchens, Easy Bake Ovens, K’Nex, big LEGOs, play workbenches, Polly Pocket, Play-Doh, videos the Littlest Pet Shop, dinosaurs and stuffed animals.
Games: This is the age at which you can introduce the earliest board games. Some great first games are Chutes and Ladders, Candy Land, Whac-A-Mole, the Memory Game and Hungry, Hungry Hippos.
Books: Good old Dr. Seuss is perfect for preschoolers; full of rhyming and imagination. “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak, “Love You Forever” by Robert N. Munsch and Sheila McGrawand, and “Harold and the Purple Crayon” by Crockett Johnson are good books for this age as well.
Little kids
Children around 5 to 7 continue to be wowed by the lights and action of the holidays, and big, showy presents easily impress.
Clothes: Remember Ralph and Randy from “A Christmas Story,” opening their socks, looking at each other and tossing them over their shoulders?
Except for a child who is really into a particular fashion or one who wants a specific jersey, this is not the best age for gifts of clothes.
Toys: LEGOs, Barbies, Transformers, doll houses, Bratz dolls, mini computers, telescopes, Nerf guns, remote-control cars and cameras are good gift options for this age. The love of stuffed animals may start to wane, though, especially for boys.
Games: Sports equipment makes its big entrance around this age, and balls, mitts, baskets and goals can be good gifts for boys or girls.
Video games and systems also stake their claims on Christmas lists, although you should check with the child’s parents before buying.
Board games take a fun step up in this age group. Guess Who?, Perfection, Sorry! and some of the younger Scene It games are great choices — and fun for the entire family.
Card games like Uno and Spoons (which you play with a regular deck) also come into play.
Books: Some kids at this age are still into picture books, while others are starting chapter books.
Some good in-between books for his age are “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day,” by Judith Viorst and Ray Cruz, and the “Magic School Bus” series by Joanna Cole and Bruce Degen.
For those starting chapter books, the “Junie B. Jones” series by Barbara Park and Denise Brunkus is good, especially for girls. Both girls and boys like the “Magic Tree House” books by Mary Pope Osborne and Sal Murdocca and the “Bunnicula” series by James Howe.
Big kids
Around the ages of 8 to 10, some of the magic has worn off the season, but Christmas is still just as big a deal.
Clothes: Some kids in this age group are still not so impressed by clothes, while others, especially girls, might be getting really into them. A gift certificate from a store like Justice are Charlotte Russe are nice for the latter group.
Toys: Traditional toys start to take a backseat to games around this age, although Barbies, LEGOs, Nerf guns and the like are still top choices for some kids.
Electronic toys, such as iPods, MP3 Players and cell phones, make it onto the wish lists of many in this age group.
Games: Depending on how long their parents could hold off, video games are on the minds of many older elementary-schoolers. If you want to go this route, check with the child’s parents to see what game (and from what system) is most desired. Sports equipment is big for some kids as well.
Also at this age, kids begin playing board games that are just as fun for their parents. Some good ones are The Game of Life, Monopoly, Clue, Payday, Yahtzee! and Trivial Pursuit for Kids.
Books: Kids are into chapter books at this age. The best-selling “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series by Jeff Kinney is all the rage. Don’t discount nonfiction books on a subject that child might be interested in as well.
Tweens
Ages 11 and 12 can be tough to buy for, because they aren’t little kids, but they aren’t teenagers, either.
Clothes: Getting clothes as a present begins to get good again at this age, especially for girls. Find out what stores the tweener likes and get them a gift card.
Toys: Depending on the kid, toys can go either way. Some are still playing with Barbies and some have “boyfriends.”
However, just about all tweens are into electronic toys, such as iPods, and music, movies and cell phones as a whole.
Games: Video games continue to be a big draw, as does athletic gear. But, as kids get older, their wants become more specific, so check with parents on these.
Some good board games for these ages are Risk, Stratego, Othello, Mastermind, Boggle and Scrabble.
Books: Books by sports writer Mike Lupica, like “Summer Ball” and “The Big Field,” are great, especially for boys, and the “Harry Potter” books by J.K. Rowling are fun for all in this age group to discover.
Teenagers
Teens also can be tough because they are more into hanging out with their friends than pretty much anything else. But, being kids, they still like getting fun presents.
Clothes: Many teens — even the boys — may like getting clothes, but most want to pick them out themselves. The safest bet here, again, is a gift card to a favorite store.
Toys: At this point, toys have pretty much been replaced by DVDs, music, electronic toys, cell phones and the like.
Games: Sports and sports equipment are still big, depending on the interests of the teen, as are video games.
This age group can play just about any board game. Some of the more fun ones are the older Scene It games (like for “Twilight” and “Harry Potter”), Trivial Pursuit, Pictionary and Catch Phrase.
Books: The “Twilight” books by Stephenie Meyer are fun for younger teens, as are “The Vampire Diaries” series by L.J. Smith. Magazine subscriptions can be a good option as well.
For older teens, a gift certificate to a bookstore might be most welcomed.
Sales this week
The following stores are having great sales on gifts for kids this week. Here are a few of the highlights.
Toys R Us is having another big sale this weekend, with $10 to $20 off many Playskool and Fisher-Price toys. Toys R Us also has the lowest price on classic board games, selling them for $6.99 after a $3 rebate.
Other games at the store are 30 percent off. The store has its biggest bonus buy sales today and Monday.
Kmart has its classic board games for buy one, get one free, and has all fun kids’ fashions for 40 percent off. Kmart also has mix and match Transformers, Playskool, Littlest Pet Shop and Thomas the Tank Engine for buy two, get one free.
Target is big on LEGOs this week, offering select Star Wars, Power Miner and Space Police sets for $19.
Target also has its Play Wonder 3 level dollhouse, marked down from $119.99 to $79.99, and an X Rocker Gaming Chair discounted from $99.99 to $75. And, it has a 16GB iPod Nano for $175, and you get a $15 Target gift card back with the purchase.
Walmart continues its multiple toys for $10 deal, including Littlest Pet Shop, Bionicle and Transformers. And it has doll houses starting at $29.95.
Kohl’s has 45 percent off Playskool toys, 40 percent off Fisher-Price and many Scene It games for $19.99 (they are regularly $29.99) during its two-day sale today and Monday.
Barbie Fashionista dolls are 40 percent off, and handheld electronic games are $9.99 (regularly $14.99).
Big Lots has K’Nex, Barbie Candy Glam and Lincoln Logs for $20, and Guitar Hero World Tour for Wii for $39.88 (it is regularly $59.82).
JCPenney has 50 percent off gifts, such as plush Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer toys. It has 50 percent to 60 percent off clothes for big kids and tweens, and Toy Story apparel is half off. JCPenney also has a 2GB MP3 Player for $29.99 after $10 rebate (regularly $69.99).
Sears has 50 percent off kids’ apparel, and hundreds of dollars off various table tennis tables and hockey, billiards and table tennis combos.
Dick’s Sporting Goods has 50 percent off ESPN Action Sports Games this week.
Amazon.com is a great place to get discounted toys as well this season.
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TweetSave on photo Christmas cards at Vistaprint
The More With Less Today site had a great post Friday, Dec. 4, about how to get Christmas photo cards printed at a big discount.
The deal it cites is from Vistaprint which, for a limited time, is selling all photo holiday cards for 75 percent off and offering free shipping on orders of more than $75.
Also, all holiday products are now 50 percent off.
Prices reportedly start at 20 photo cards for $6.24 or 100 photo cards for $24.99.
More With Less also notes that you can also get 140 free personalized address labels and just pay shipping and handling of $2.99. Search under “holiday” then labels.
See the More With Less site or the Vistaprint site for more details.
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TweetStandard shipping info for holidays
Consumer Reports put together a handy look at how long it will take to ship items from various online retailers via standard shipping in regards to the quickly approaching holidays.
It notes that, even though standard shipping is consistently the cheapest shipping, it does not take a consistent amount of time. Also, free shipping deals apply to standard shipping times.
For instance, CR notes that at Walmart standard shipping takes three to seven business days, at Target it is three to five days, at Best Buy it’s four to eight days, and orders from Gap, Banana Republic, and Old Navy can take anywhere from five to nine days.
DealNews also has a great, expansive list of online shipping dates to meet to ensure arrival before Christmas.
In other shipping news, USA Today reported Thursday that FedEx is planning to raise its ground and home delivery rates in 2010.
The story added that SmartPost rates also will change. SmartPost is FedEx’s partnership with the U.S. Postal Service.
All of the rate increases are expected to go into effect Jan. 4.
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TweetH1N1, jury duty scams; top 10 scams of 2009
The Ohio Attorney General’s Office put out a couple of consumer alerts this week related to current scams.
The first concerned an e-mail announcing the launch of a “state vaccination H1N1 program.”
The e-mail, which is designed to look like it is from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, encourages the user to create a personal vaccination profile and provides a link to a Web page that looks similar to the CDC site.
AG Richard Cordray warns that by downloading the instructions, visitors are downloading a virus onto their computers.
“Any time you receive an e-mail from someone you are not familiar with, I strongly recommend avoiding the provided links,” Cordray said. “Clicking on that link can unleash downloadable viruses capable of capturing your personal information and sending it back to the scam artist.”
The other one noted this week was in regards to an old jury duty scam. The identity theft ploy involves the victim being asked to provide his or her Social Security number, date of birth and in some instances a credit card number.
“The best rule of thumb is to never give out your personal information over the phone regardless of who is calling,” Cordray said. “Unless you initiate the call, you really don’t have verification of who is on the other end.”
To report a scam, visit the Attorney General’s Office at www.SpeakOutOhio.gov or call (800) 282-0515.
Also this week, the Better Business Bureau put out a list of the top 10 scams of 2009.
The top 10 are:
Work-at-home schemes
Bogus credit offers
Lottery scams
Vacation scams
Advance fee loans
Identity theft
Home repair rip-offs
Spoofing attacks
Check-overpayment schemes
Prizes with a catch
For more info on these and how to avoid them, visit the expanded list at the Go Frugal Blog site.
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TweetSears hanging onto Black Friday … in a good way
Sears is running a sale this weekend called “Black Friday doorbusters now!”
Interestingly, the store is running the sale on Saturday, Dec. 5.
From 7 a.m. to noon only (hence the “doorbuster” title), Sears has 50 percent to 60 percent off coats, sweaters, fleece and tops for her, and 60 percent off gifts for him.
For kids, all GeoTrax toys are 30 percent off, and the kids’ Craftsman workbench is $20 off for a price of $59.99.
Sears also has some “extra savings” online today.
Also this weekend, Toys R Us ia having a two-day sale, starting today.
It looks like a great sale, but check out the ad in the newspaper or online to see if what you want is on sale, because some readers have said the number of sales items were limited.
JCPenney is having an “appreciation sale” today and Saturday, with doorbusters from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.
There are prices off 50 percent to 60 percent off storewide, plus JCP rewards of double points if you are a member of the store’s rewards program.
Today’s JCPenney online daily deal, by the way, is East 5th Ballet Neck Sweaters for $7.99 to $9.99. They are usually $30 to $36.
And Kohl’s is in the midst of a three-day Christmas sale, with 20 percent to 40 percent off select toys and lots of clothing from 50 percent to 65 percent off (and 70 percent off select turtlenecks).
Kohl’s online deal of the day is on Home Classic flannel sheets marked down from $64.99 and $84.99 to $19.99 online today only.
Also, since it is Friday, Amazon has its weekly Friday sales today.
Dealhack noted the up to 75 percent off savings at Amazon with a handy roundup.
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TweetKohl’s, JCPenney have holiday deals of day
More sites, in honor of the holidays, are running incredible online deals of the day or more one-day only sales.
Here are some of the better ones to check, and some of the deals they are offering today, Dec. 3:
JCPenney: Get a St. John’s Bay Puffer Jacket, originally $60, for $19.99 today.
Kohl’s is having its 25 deals of Christmas, with a new deal each day. Today’s deal is select quarter-carat T.W. diamond jewelry, which is regularly $375, but today is $99.
Woot! is a good site for deals of the day, even if it isn’t the holiday season.
And eBags has a 20 percent off sale today.
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TweetAmazon discounts ‘favorite’ toys; NFL shop has 15% off today only
Amazon.com, which has been fighting the good fight for your toy dollars for a few months now, announced today, Dec. 3, that it was offering deep discounts on customers’ favorite toys.
Other sites to check for the best toy discounts are Walmart.com and Target.com and ToysRUs.com.
For more on toys and sales, see the guide in this Sunday’s Dayton Daily News Life section. It also will be published on this blog on Sunday.
If you are shopping for a jersey for someone on your list, the NFL Shop has 15 percent off today only.
Check back, though, because the site notes it has a new deal every day in its “season of savings.”
And, on this sports theme, the Fans Edge site has a sale this week on sweatshirts, marking them down 15 percent to 50 percent off. Of note is that the few 50 percent off sweatshirts seem to be in the NHL gear.
The Fans Edge site also has a good clearance section, with deals of up to 70 percent off.
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Tweet25% off at Macy’s and other coupon news
Wallet Pop this week provided a link to a 25 percent off coupon at Macy’s, for use either in stores or online.
It expires Monday, Dec. 7.
It also offers an extra 10 percent off for electronics, furniture, floor care and more.
The site lists caveats to the deal, and notes that if you want to open a Macy’s account, you can get an extra 20 percent off.
Here is the direct link to the coupon as well.
In other coupon news, USA Today reports that online coupon searches are skyrocketing. This is something that might not surprise many of this blog’s readers, but it is interesting to see which sites are drawing the most hits.
USA Today said that on Cyber Monday, RetailMeNot had 1.1 million visitors, up 57 percent from a year ago; CouponCabin was visited 400,000 times, up 65% from a year ago; and BradsDeals.com said traffic was up 174 percent, to 16,000 visitors per hour this year.
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TweetAll Sports Gaming System marked down to $8.99 from $89.99 today only
JCPenney has an unbelievable deal today, Dec. 2, in their clearance section online.
The All Sports Gaming System, regularly $89.99, is on sale for $8.99 today — that’s right, $8.99.
The interactive sports package has five games — baseball, golf, bowling, boxing and tennis. Wireless remote controls respond to your movement.
It requires AA batteries and is for ages 8 and older.
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TweetWalmart, Target have video game deals
Now through Dec. 24, Walmart stores will offer 15 percent to 20 percent savings on 25 top video game titles, including games for kids, families and extreme gamers.
Also, starting Saturday, Dec. 5, shoppers who buy a Wii video game system at Walmart stores for the going rate of $199 will get a bonus — a $50 Walmart gift card.
This deal runs through Dec. 12, while supplies last.
In other video game deal news, at Target, if you buy an Xbox 360 Arcade game system for $199, you can ge a free controller, worth $49.99, while supplies last.
This week also, if you buy a Wii at Target, you get a $20 gift card.
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Tweet50% off at Toys R Us, E-B, Kohl’s today
I don’t think I’ve seen a holiday shopping season with as many 50 percent off sales as there have been already this year, and at bigger stores. And it makes me wonder how long they can keep up this trend.
But, regardless of their frequency or their longevity, they are here today — and they are great sales.
Toys R Us is having a big one-day sale today, Dec. 2, marking down dozens of toys 50 percent, others 40 percent on down to 25 percent off. The store also has stocking stuffers for buy one, get one free.
Toys R Us’ hours are 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. today.
Elder-Beerman has 50 percent off thousands of items storewide during its one-day sale today, and coupons for more money off printable from its Web site.
E-B is one of the few stores that hasn’t been running as many 50 percent off sales, so this might be a good time to take advantage of the discounts if there are items you have had your eye on at that store.
Seniors get an extra 20 percent off select items when using an Elder-Beerman card.
Kohl’s is in the midst of a two-day sale, which ends today, with discounts of 50 percent to 55 percent throughout the store.
Kohl’s also has a senior deal, offering an extra 15 percent off for ages 62 or older. There is no need to use your Kohl’s card for the senior deal, but proof of age is required.
Kohl’s, which opened at 7 a.m., closes at midnight tonight.
On its Web site, Kohl’s also is featuring an online only deal of the day — 25 deals until Christmas.
Today’s deal of the day is Kohl’s entire stock of Apt. 9 cashmere sweaters for women, which are usually $100, are just $34.99 today only.
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TweetSnowmen doughnuts, pumpkin pancakes among sweet deals this month
Restaurant News noted Monday, Nov. 30, that some area restaurants have started selling their holiday-themed goodies and are offering warm-hearted deals as well.
Among them, Krispy Kreme in Kettering is selling its snowman-shaped doughnuts, which seems like a doughnut and a half, for 99 cents each or $6.99 per dozen.
Other limited-time offer doughnuts, all priced like the snowmen, at Krispy Kreme include glazed doughnuts with white icing and a gingerbread crunch topping, white-iced rings with red drizzle, and chocolate-iced rings with holiday sprinkles.
Also, Krispy Kreme has brought back its holiday gift tags. Customers get 12 gift tags with each purchase of a dozen doughnuts, and each gift tag is good for a free doughnut. This offer is good through Christmas.
At IHOP, which is a little drive down I-75 in West Chester and also has an outlet in Mason, there are new Holiday Hotcakes — gingerbread, eggnog, pecan pie and pumpkin.
Prices for the Holiday Hotcakes start at $4.99 and are available a la carte or part of a combination meal through Jan. 3 at participating locations.
Dunkin Donuts has introduced the limited-time flavor of Peppermint Mocha Latte, served hot or cold, available through the end of December for $1.99 for a small.
At Dairy Queen, there is the new Candy Cane Chill, a peppermint-flavored version of the Blizzard, with candy cane pieces and chocolate chunks.
It will be available this month for $3.09 to $3.99.
Also at Dairy Queen, if you join the Blizzard fan club, you can get a coupon for a free Blizzard.
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TweetCyber Monday bigger success than Black Friday
It is the way of the world, it seems.
According to reports from the National Retail Federation, overall spending was down on the Black Friday weekend, compared to figures from a year ago. In total, $41.2 billion was spent.
Even though there reportedly were more shoppers, the average spending dropped to $343.31 per person from $372.57 a year ago.
Among those figures, however, the Consumerist reported that online sales for the Black Friday weekend were up a good 35 percent over Black Friday 2008.
And then came Cyber Monday.
Unlike on Black Friday weekend, Cyber Monday sales reportedly rose 14 percent this year compared to 2008.
And, according to the research firm Coremetrics and reported by CNN Money, consumers also bought nearly 30 percent more items per order versus last year.
Also, Coremetrics said shoppers bought 10 percent more items per order online than they did in stores on Black Friday.
CNN Money also noted that: “An average of 4.3 million consumers per minute visited shopping Web sites throughout the day Monday in North America, according to Internet monitoring firm Akamai, which tracks traffic trends to more than 270 e-tailers.”
With the ease of surfing for deals online from the comfort of your home, the increased awareness about ways to shop safely, the plethora of Web sites selling merchandise and the many ways to compare prices, it makes sense that this is where shoppers’ dollars are going.
It is just the way of the world.
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TweetTuesday means updated book list and sale
According to DealHack, a useful bargain-seeking site, every Tuesday you can look to them to find the top 10 best-selling book titles that will then be on sale at Amazon.
Of course, you can also look to the New York Times best-seller list (which is updated on Sundays) or to Amazon itself, but DealHack does have a handy little list compiled each week.
It is good to have options.
It is important to note as well that Walmart also will have these books on sale for prices comparable to Amazon, per their ongoing price war.
Walmart does not have the nice, neat list of best-sellers on its site, but it does have other helpful categories, such as America’s Reading List, New Releases and Top 50 Pre-orders. These lists have many best-sellers on them, and have the books at big discounts.
Other booksellers likely will have big discounts on the books on this list as well, but the best prices for best-sellers this season consistently have been at Amazon and Walmart.
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