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March 2009
Fill your medicine cabinet with these best buys
ShopSmart; magazine, a product of Consumer Reports, is a useful shopping resource.
Recently the magazine did a study on the best drugstore products to buy — and what to skip — to save money and protect your family.
These are the medicines they deemed the best:
For allergies: Loratadine (Claritin or generic brands)
For constipation: Docusate (Colace, Phillips’ Liqua-Gels)
For cough: Nonmedicated lozenges are best.
Diarrhea: Bismuth subsalicylate (Kaopectate, Pepto-Bismal) or loperamide (Imodium A-D)
Headache, muscle ache, fever: Acetaminophen (Tylenol or generics)
Occasional heartburn: Tums. Frequent heartburn: Pepcid Complete or Zantac 150
Infection protection: Rubbing alcohol
Injuries: Ice pack. Good heat pack is ThermaCare.
Itchy bug bites and poison ivy: Hydrocortizone cream (Cortaid or Cortizone 10)
Runny nose: Benadryl Allergy and Chlor-Trimetron
Sore throat: Dyclonine (Sucrets Maximum Strength, Original Sore Throat Lozenges)
Stinging bug bites and sunburn: Caladryl Clear, Dermoplast or Lanacane
Stuffy nose: Decongestant or nasal spray (Afrin 12-hour spray, Neo-Synephrine 12-hour Spray), but switch to Sudafed or generics after three days to prevent rebound congestion
Thermometers: Vicks Comfort-Flex and Omron 20-seconds digital thermometers
Yeast infections: Gyne-Lotrimin or Monistat 7
TweetTen IRS Tips for Last Minute Tax Return Filers
Since there are only a couple of weeks left until the dreaded April 15 tax filing deadline, here are some helpful Internal Revenue Service tips to help you finish the job.
E-file your return. Consider filing electronically instead of using paper tax forms. Choosing to e-file is the best way to ensure your return is accurate and complete.
Review tax ID numbers. Remember to carefully check all identification numbers on your return. Incorrect or illegible Social Security Numbers can delay or reduce a tax refund.
Double-check your figures. Whether you are filing electronically or by paper, review all the amounts you transferred over from your W-2 or 1099.
Review your math. Taxpayers filing paper returns should also double-check that they have correctly figured the refund or balance due and have used the right figure from the tax table.
Sign and date your return. Both spouses must sign a joint return, even if only one had income. Anyone paid to prepare a return must also sign it.
Choose Direct Deposit. To get your refund quicker, select Direct Deposit and the IRS will deposit your refund directly into your bank account.
How to make a payment. People sending a payment should make the check out to “United States Treasury” and should enclose it with, but not attach it to the tax return or the Form 1040-V, Payment Voucher, if used. Write your name, address, SSN, telephone number, tax year and form number on the check or money order.
File an extension. Taxpayers who will not be able to file a return by the April deadline should request an extension of time to file. Remember, the extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay.
Visit the IRS Web site. IRS.gov has forms, publications and helpful information on a variety of tax subjects, which is available around the clock on the IRS.gov.
Review your return….one more time. Before you seal the envelope or hit send, go over all the information on return again. Errors may delay the processing of your return, so it’s best for you to make sure everything on your return is correct.
TweetTen IRS Tips about IRA Contributions
Here are a few tips from the Internal Revenue Service regarding contributions to your Individual Retirement Arrangement. There is still time to make contributions to your IRA, and here are 10 things you should know about money you’re saving for.
1. You may be able to deduct some or all of your contributions to your IRA and you also may be eligible for a tax credit equal to a percentage of your contribution.
2. Contributions can be made to your traditional IRA at any time during the year or by the due date for filing your return for that year, not including extensions. For most people, this means contributions for 2008 must be made by April 15, 2009.
3. The amount of funds in your IRA are generally not taxed until you receive distributions from that IRA.
4. To figure your deduction for IRA contributions, use the worksheets in the instructions for the form you are filing.
5. For 2008, the most that can be contributed to your traditional IRA generally is the smaller of the following amounts: $5,000 or the amount of your taxable compensation for the year. Taxpayers who are 50 or older can contribute up to $6,000.
6. Use Form 8880, Credit for Qualified Retirement Savings Contributions, to determine whether you are also eligible for a tax credit.
7. You cannot deduct an IRA contribution or claim the Credit for Qualified Retirement Saving Contributions on Form 1040EZ; you must use either Form 1040A or Form 1040.
8. To contribute to a traditional IRA, you must be under age 70 1/2 at the end of the tax year.
9. You must have taxable compensation, such as wages, salaries, commissions and tips. If you file a joint return, only one of you needs to have compensation.
10. Refer to IRS Publication 590, Individual Retirement Arrangements, for information on the amounts you will be eligible to contribute to your IRA account.
Both Form 8880 and Publication 590 can be downloaded at irs.gov or ordered by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).
TweetSite lists what auto repair costs should be
There are some services that we have to pay for if we don’t have the skills to perform ourselves. These can include everything from cutting our own hair to diagnosing our colds.
One service that eludes me is auto maintenance. Even though I could probably learn how to change my car’s oil or replace my car’s battery, it is not something I want to deal with if I don’t have to.
But sometimes I wonder if I am paying too much for car repairs, and I often don’t know who to ask to find out if I am being overcharged.
If you are in the same predicament, visit RepairPal.com. If you enter your car’s make and model, as well as your ZIP code and your car’s suspected issue, you can get a ballpark price on how much it should cost to fix it.
It even shows the dealership cost vs. independent shop.
TweetHere’s the Deal: Birthday party options
Does it seem like you are going to more kids’ birthday parties lately?
“We are smack dab in the middle of birthday season right now,” according to Jeff Groves, general manager at Rollandia Golf Center and Magic Castle.
So we thought this would be a good time to take a look at some area birthday party facilities, and see what you really get for your money. While the least expensive party is one you host at your home or a local park, it is good to know your options.
Most facilities offer packages at varying price levels, offer coupons for future visits and require a minimum number of guests. Many ask for a deposit when booking the facility.
This is just a sampling of some popular birthday party options in the Miami Valley:
Rollandia’s Magic Castle: Rollandia, on Wilmington Pike in Centerville, offers two party packages that range from $8.50 to $13.95 per person.
Both packages get you tokens, pizza, soda pop, game play and one activity — soft play, batting cages or miniature golf.
With the more expensive package, you get more of those things and a private room, prize counter points, a cake, group photo and invitations.
For more information, call (937) 434-4911 or visit gorollandia.com.
Bounce U: The Miami Twp. facility full of giant inflatables has three packages available.
The Spectac-U-lar Package is the most expensive and all-inclusive, and costs $399. It allows for 25 guests, a party room, hosts, five pizzas, unlimited drinks, goodie bags, a balloon bouquet, half a sheet cake and the birthday boy or girl gets a T-shirt.
The Premier Package is the same as the Spectac-U-lar, but doesn’t include food. This package costs $239 to $279 depending on day.
There also is a U-Junior package that is the same as the Premier, except smaller. It serves 15 guests. That package costs $199 to $239.
For more information, call Bounce U at (937) 610-0500 or visit www.bounceu.com.
On a side note, the Miamisburg Pump it Up, which had a similar facility, closed in January.
Laser tag: There are two facilities near Dayton that offer laser tag-themed birthday parties, and they are both in Centerville.
Laser Quest, in the Cross Pointe Shopping Center, offers two party packages. The Traditional Package offers two games for each person and a private party room. Families can bring in food or have it delivered.
The cost is $15 per person (parents count, if they wish to play).
Their Double Exclusive Package is the same as first but the games are confined to your group. These parties can accommodate up to 30, and cost a flat $380.
For more information, call Laser Quest at (937) 434-0088 or visit www.laserquest.com.
Laser Web is on Miamisburg-Centerville road and offers three party packages: Super Nova ($12.99 per person), Galaxy ($15.99) and Universe ($19.99). Private packages cost extra.
All packages offer two Laser Web missions and a party room, and the higher you go in price, the more food, drink and extras you get. Some packages also offer tokens for the video game area.
For more information on Laser Web, call (937) 435-2737 or visit funattheweb.com.
Princess Tea Room: The Princess Tea Room is on West Franklin Street in Centerville and offers two themed options. There are princess packages for those as young as 3, and the spa package is for ages 6 and older.
The princess packages start at $135 down, and the spa package costs $195 down. All packages also cost $15 per child the day of the party.
The parties include dress-up, a fashion show and a craft (except with the youngest group), and the spa party also offers facials and fingernail painting.
Co-owner Terre Longer said those interested should book at least a month in advance. For more information, call (937) 428-6590 or visit www.princesstearoom.com.
Skateworld: There are two Skateworlds in the area and, although they were affiliated at one time, they now operate separately.
The facility in Vandalia offers two party packages, which vary in food options, from $9 to $10.
They both include party invitations, skate rental, a free T-shirt for the birthday person, soft drinks and ice cream. Guests bring in the cake. A bouquet of balloons can be purchased for $10.
Skateworld of Kettering offers three party packages: The Economy Package is $8.50 per child, the Ultimate is $11 and the Works is $16.99.
Included in all packages is invitations, seating and skate rental.
Where this package really varies is in the food options. The Economy just includes ice cream, while the other packages have Pizza Hut pizza. The Works package also includes a free pair of skates for the birthday child and four weeks of free skating lessons.
“Most parents just give the skates as their birthday present,” said Alishia Funk, general manager of Skateworld of Kettering. “The skates are valued at $75.”
TweetLearn how to save at Coupon Boot Camp
I am not sure if these classes will include mandatory push-ups or saluting, but they should help you get your finances ship-shape.
Coupon Boot Camps, which teach folks how to save hundreds on groceries, dining and entertainment, will be offered from 10 a.m. to noon April 4 or April 18 at Books N More in Wilmington and from 10 a.m. to noon April 25 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Cincinnati.
Coupon Boot Camps reportedly provide the tools, rules and inside secrets to maximizing budgets through couponing.
The cost for the class is $20 to $25, depending on when you sign up. Space is limited and preregistration is required.
However, if Wilmington or Cincinnati is too far for you, find out how you or your organization can host a Coupon Boot Camp and receive free or discounted training. If you are interested, call Tara Roark (937) 728-3572.
And, if you schedule a camp closer to Dayton, let us know so we can pass it on.
For more information or to register, visit www.couponbootcamp.com.
TweetiTunes to charge $1.29 for hottest songs
The world’s biggest music store is going into a higher pitch.
Back in January, iTunes announced it would be changing its price structure, and those changes will reportedly take effect April 7.
The new model prices individual songs at 69 cents, 99 cents, and $1.29, as opposed to the current price of 99 cents for all iTunes tracks.
It is a move that has struck a sour note with many in the music industry. According to an L.A. Times article, former EMI Executive Tim Cohen is quoted as saying that, “This will be a PR nightmare. It is for the music industry what the AIG bonuses are for the insurance industry.”
And, as WalletPop noted today, March 27, if iTunes is not the 99 cent music store, then what will it be?
And how will it determine which songs are hottest? If it does it by download, then it could be punishing people for patronizing their business.
What do you think? Will you be less likely to pay more for the “hottest” songs?
Tweet75% off clothes and much more at Amazon
Amazon’s One-Day Friday Sale is going on today, March 27, and offering up to 75 percent off items in apparel, jewelry and watches, home and garden, home improvement, home office, personal care and grocery, and kitchen and dining and more.
Some of the highlights include:
Triumph Motorcycles Men’s Stainless Steel Watch, originally $595, now $140 (76% off).
Calphalon Commercial Hard-Anodized 2.5-Quart Shallow Saucepan with Lid, originally $119, now $28 (76% off).
Ruby Rox Girls 7-16 Diamond Drape Emma Dress, originally $45, now $27 (40% off).
TweetPistachio nuts, products recalled
The Food & Drug Administration is recalling more nuts for salmonella, although these recalls are NOT related to the Peanut Corp. of America outbreak.
Pistachio products distributed by California-based Georgia Nut Co. and Back to Nature Foods Co.’s Nantucket Blend trail mix are affected by the recall.
The nuts were not sold locally, but were sold online. They include:
Bulk Deluxe Mixed Nuts with shelled pistachios purchased at the Not Just Nuts store in Wauwatosa, WI from Dec. 5, 2008 through March 24, 2009
Bulk or custom packaged Deluxe Mixed Nuts with shelled pistachios purchased at Georgia Nut retail stores in Skokie and Glenview, IL, Georgia Nut’s Chocolate House location in Greenfield, WI, and through the Company’s Web site.
Bulk or custom packaged Dry Roasted Shelled Pistachios purchased at Georgia Nut retail stores in Skokie and Glenview, IL, Georgia Nut’s Chocolate House location in Greenfield, WI, and through the company’s Web site from Dec 3, 2008 through March 23, 2009
Mixed Nuts Deluxe Roasted and Salted Bulk with shelled pistachios purchased from clear plastic bulk bins in the produce department at Dominick’s Finer Foods stores in the greater Chicagoland area from Dec. 10, 2008 through March 25, 2009.
Call the Georgia Nut Co. at (800) 914-4110 or visit www.gncinfo.com for more information.
The second recall involves trail mixes containing pistachio nuts that may have the potential to be contaminated with salmonella. The following varieties are being recalled:
Back to Nature Nantucket Blend trail mix, 28 oz. bag, UPC code 59283-00020 and a “best by” date between 08 20 09 and 12 12 09.
Back to Nature Nantucket Blend trail mix, 10 oz. bag, UPC code 59283-31039 and a “best by” date between 11 04 09 and 12 12 09.
Consumers can contact Back to Nature at (866) 538-8280 with any questions.
TweetMany types of kids’ hoodies recalled
Five brands of children’s hooded jackets and sweat shirts with drawstrings were recalled this week, March 25, due to the strangulation hazard they pose.
They were all manufactured in China and distributed from California companies. Some were sold predominantly in California, but are listed just in case. I have bolded the local stores or Web sites that sold these items.
The brands and products include:
Dysfunctional Clothing LLC recalled its Hooded Fleece Sweatshirts that were sold at Macy’s, Bloomingdales, Zappo’s, and Jacks Surf Shop stores nationwide.
Call (800)-760-3417 or visit www.lostenterprises.com.
MM Compound LLC recalled its boys Hooded Fleece Sweatshirts, which were sold online at Metal Mulisha Web Site and Zappos.com, and a variety of West Coast sport shops. Call (877) 685-4742.
Rusty North America recalled its Hooded Fleece Sweatshirts sold at: Adrenaline, Bunger Kids, Carlsbad Pipelines, Driftwood Beach Shoppe, Farias Surf & Sport, Heritage Surf & Sport, K Five Board Shop, Nomad Surf Shop, Nor’easter Surf Shop, Offshore Surf & Skate, Pitti Bimi, Riders Outlet, Rusty, Shoppers Department Store, Spellbinders, Surf Hut, Third Ave Surf Shop Inc, TJX Companies/Marshalls, Wallerbears Surf & Sport and Wave Riding Vehicles
Call (877) 857-8789.
Golden Grove Trading, Children’s Hooded Fleece Jackets for ages 6-12. These were sold at CVS stores in Los Angeles. Call (888) 800-3939.
La Jolla Sport USA recalls O’Neill Children’s Sweatshirts with Drawstrings. These were sold at Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s, Boscovs, Chicks Sporting Goods, Gottschalks, Jacks Surf and Sport, Lesters and Zappos nationwide.
Call (800) 213-6444 or visit www.oneill.com.
Consumers should immediately remove the drawstrings from these sweatshirts to eliminate the hazard, or return the garment to either the place of purchase or contact the business directly.
TweetUnder Armour sale up to 64% off
If you or your kids play sports outside in the Buckeye State, you know the value of a good, thermal layering. And you likely are acquainted with Under Armour.
Even though I always initially refer to the gear in our house as Umbros (the old soccer apparel), showing my age, Under Armour makes those snug shirts and pants you wear under uniforms to keep warm in our balmy Ohio springs and falls. The brand also makes hoodies, shoes and a variety of sporty gear.
The only problem with Under Armour is that it is pricey. However, that isn’t as much of a a problem today since the outlet section of their Web site is having a sale of up to 64 percent off.
And, as DealNews notes, you also can get free shipping with no minimum required via coupon code “UAWINTER”.
The coupon expires March 31.
TweetDollar store best buys
As I mentioned in an earlier post, dollar stores are not my favorite retail establishments. However they can be very helpful, depending on what you plan to buy.
This compilation of 10 best dollar store buys put together by About.com has some great ideas for what items get you the most for your dollar — literally.
Just don’t buy pacifiers.
Best dollar store buys:
Cleaning Products
Snacks
Bath and Beauty items
Bath Products
Gift Wrap
Scrapbooking Supplies
Containers
Kitchen Gadgets and Tools
Children’s Books
School Supplies
TweetClothes That Work 50 percent off sale
The Clothes That Work Boutique is having a 50 percent off sale on suits and skirts Friday, March 27.
Clothes That Work Boutique is an upscale resale shop that sells brand name, current women’s clothes. Prices are very affordable and the proceeds are used to purchase sizes and accessories for the Clothes That Work clients.
Clothes That Work is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide interview appropriate clothing and personalized confidence building image services for clients.
Some of the brand names offered at the boutique include Talbots, Chico’s, Coldwater Creek, Jones of New York, New York and Co., Tahari and Avenue.
The boutique is open from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fridays and 9 a.m. to noon on the second Saturday of the month.
Clothes That Work is located at The Job Center, 1133 S. Edwin C. Moses, Suite 392, in Dayton and GreeneWorks at 541 Ledbetter Road in Xenia.
TweetToys for Easter on sale at Gabriel Brothers
Deals Teamer Cea Cohen Elliott wrote in today, March 26, to report that Gabriel Brothers has some great toys on sale that work well as for Easter gifts.
“The puzzles that they sell are $4.99/$5.99 and I’ve seen them in airports for $14.99 (They’re called Doug and Melissa),” Cea said.
She added that the store also got in more Spring Express and Ann Taylor Loft women’s items, and that last week they had Earth Shoes for $24.99.
Gabriel Brothers is at 2500 N. Fairfield Road, Suite A, in Beavercreek, near the Mall at Fairfield Commons.
TweetHop on these Easter candy deals
Here comes Peter Cottontail, hoppin’ down the bunny trail …
It’s hard to believe that Easter is as close as two and a half weeks away, except when I think about drinking coke, which I gave up for Lent. Then I feel like Easter should be here tomorrow.
At any rate, since the holiday just around the corner, it is great that Andrea Deckard of Mommy Snacks put together a list of candy deals at area stores to help all us bunnies out there.
Happy (s)hopping!
TweetMore than half of consumers believe jarred peanut butter was involved in recall
If salmonella doesn’t get you, misinformation will.
According to a recent National Peanut Board survey, more than 50 percent of consumers mistakenly believe that jarred supermarket peanut butter was involved in the recent peanut butter product recall.
Just for the record, it was not.
Even though it was noted from the beginning of the recall by federal agencies, company Web sites and news organizations that commercially sold jars of peanut butter — such as Jif and Skippy — were not affected by the salmonella outbreak at the Peanut Corp. of America, the message apparently did not get through to everyone.
Part of the problem likely had to do with more products being named every day since the recall began in early January, and the initial confusion about what products used the tainted peanut butter or peanut butter paste.
As of mid-March, there have been nearly 700 illnesses reported (100 in Ohio alone) due to the outbreak and the recalled product list has reached a monumental 3,488 items, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Nine deaths have been linked to the outbreak.
For more information on the products affected by this recall, visit the nationalpeanutboard.org or www.fda.gov.
TweetReader help needed: Where do you find child’s picnic basket? Cookie jar?
One of our Deals Team members, Judy Wick, has a question for all of you skilled shoppers, and I have one as well.
Judy is looking for a covered child’s picnic basket that opens from the top to put dishes in for use by a toddler. She wants to use it for an Easter basket for an 18-month-old, and said she was going to put in a teapot set or dish set.
She would love to buy it locally, if that is possible.
As for me, I am looking for a big cookie jar that looks halfway decent and has the rubber seal on the lid to keep the cookies fresh. My mom had one that we used growing up, and I want to have that out for my kids as well, rather than keeping the cookies in their packages.
I have been amazed at how hard that is to find — even online.
If anyone out there knows where to get either of these items, your help would be much appreciated.
Also, if there is an item you can’t find, let me know. If I can’t find the answer, I can post it for our readers.
TweetTop 10 financial guidelines for your 30s
As I believe Carrie Heffernen said on a rerun of “King of Queens” recently, “We’re not in our 20s; being broke isn’t cute anymore.”
To this end, MSN Money has put together a list of 10 financial commandments for your 30s that explores ways to start building that grown-up nest egg.
Among their suggestions are diversifying investments, kicking the debt cycle and getting serious about retirement.
The site earlier wrote 10 commandments for folks in their 20s as well, which focuses more on living within your means and developing a marketable skill.
I am looking forward to their installment on commandments for your 40s. I am thinking they will suggest things like coping with unwanted career change and making sure your kids like you well enough that you can stay in their basement in your golden years.
And so we come full circle with our “King of Queens” references.
TweetSave at the store with these 108 coupons
Coupons.com has 108 printable coupons this morning, March 25, for your enjoyment.
Among the helpful offerings are $1 off Juicy Juice, $2 off Bayer Heart Advantage products, $5 off Rembrandt 2-hour Whitening Kit and up to $6 off Hill’s Science Diet pet food.
Some of the links ask you to sign up for a membership, but if you get that product often it may be worth your while.
Tweet52 ways to get to a human when calling customer service
Calling large companies and trying to get questions answered or concerns addressed can be frustrating, especially when you are mucking through a series of prompts that don’t seem to get you anywhere near a person who can help you with your problem.
The folks over at VoIP-News heard your cries for help (even if those big companies didn’t), and put together a list of 52 ways you can get to a real person at any corporation in 10 seconds or less.
My favorites are:
No. 14. Press everything. By pressing multiple numbers, you can trick systems into thinking you’re on a rotary phone — or that you’re crazy. Either way, you’re in.
No. 28. The Name of a Competitor: Systems sometimes monitor what you say while you’re on hold. If you say the name of a competitor, a company may become concerned that you’re going to leave it for greener pastures, and someone will snap to help you.
And the best, No. 36. Swear. Some IVR (Interactive Voice Response) systems are programmed to put anyone who is using profanity at the front of the line.
TweetMore good economic news
How often have you seen that headline lately?
A report today, March 24, by U.S. News & World Report called Dude, Where’s My Depression? lists five reasons that the economy is looking up.
Among their findings: The yield curve spread, a classical leading indicator, has turned up and the credit markets, while not back to normal, have improved significantly from last fall/winter.
In addition to that, I found a whole site devoted to noting the good in the economy. Positive Economic News promotes the positive because they believe that “the more negative news we’re fed, the less likely we are to consume goods and services, resulting in layoffs, which in turn further reduces consumption.”
TweetJust a suggestion: Don’t buy pacifiers at the dollar store
Another recall of note today, March 24, from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is that of Baby Necessities pacifiers.
These pacifiers were sold at dollar and discount stores nationwide from August 2007 through January 2009, for (you guessed it) about $1.
OK, I know I am showing my bias here, but I have to suggest that you don’t buy anything that largely will reside in your baby’s mouth from a dollar store.
As Tod Marks, a senior editor with Consumer Reports, told SmartMoney last year about dollar stores: “Sometimes seemingly innocuous items show up with safety issues.” That story also listed its top five bad dollar store buys.
But I digress.
At issue today is the pacifiers recalled that pose a choking hazard. The Baby Necessities pacifiers with a blue heart-shaped mouth guard have been banned under federal law and failed federal safety tests when the nipples separated from the base, according to the CPSC.
The pacifiers were sold four to a pack, and the words “Baby Necessities” are printed on the cardboard packaging.
Consumers should immediately take the recalled pacifier away from children and contact OKK Trading for a refund or exchange.
Contact OKK Trading collect at (877) 655-8697 between noon and 8 p.m. weekdays, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.okktrading.com.
TweetFisher-Price high chairs recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported today, March 24, that they are recalling Fisher-Price 3-in-1 High Chair to Booster.
The high chairs were sold exclusively at Target from December 2008 through March 2009 for about $100.
According to the CPSC, the seat can fall backward from high chair frame if the booster seat release is unlatched while the child is sitting in the seat.
Also, the seat back can detach if not fully snapped in place, posing a fall hazard and risk of serious injury to young children.
The firm has received one report of a seat back detaching and child falling out, resulting in a skull fracture.
The chair converts from a high chair to a toddler booster seat, and includes a removable tray, height adjustment and folds for storage. The product number (P5369) is printed on the side of the seat, on a label on the seat pad, and on the product’s packaging.
Consumers should stop using the recalled high chairs immediately and contact Fisher-Price for instructions and a free repair kit.
Contact Fisher-Price at (800) 432-5437 or visit the firm’s Web site at www.service.mattel.com.
TweetCheapest car in the world to debut
How much does a cheap new car cost? $15,000? $10,000? How about $2,000-$2,500?
That’s how much you would pay for the Tata Nano. The Tata Motors car will be released in India in July, and there is talk that it is headed for Europe in 2011 — and it may make its way to the United States as well.
According to the New York Times, the four-door Nano is a little more than 10 feet long and nearly 5 feet wide. The Nano is capable of 65 miles an hour. Its four small wheels are at the absolute corners of the car to improve handling. There is a small trunk, big enough for a duffel bag.
However, according to the Wise Bread Web site, there is some talk that the car will be more of a curse than a blessing to countries such as India in which congestion in the streets is already extreme, as is the pollution.
And, so far, the demand for the Nano seems to be quite high since many Indian families desire a four wheeled car and the Nano’s cheapest competition is about twice as expensive.
But, Tata argues that the Nano — dubbed “The People’s Car” in India due to its affordability — is one of the greener cars on the market due to its small size and low fuel consumption. The Nano gets around 50 miles per gallon.
Currently, the cheapest new vehicle in the United States is either the Nissan Versa or Hyundai Accent, both of which cost around $10,000.
TweetKroger, Meijer deals for week of March 22
Andrea Deckard over at Mommy Snacks has compiled her weekly lists of area store deals that match up with printable coupons, to help us shoppers find the best deals.
She has a list for Kroger, Meijer, Target, CVS, Walgreens and Walmart for the week that began Sunday, March 22.
TweetRoderer on N. Main has selection, sale
Mike Roderer, of Roderer Shoes on North Main Street in Dayton, also wrote in regarding my story this weekend on children’s shoes.
Mike said that Roderer Shoes in Dayton is not affiliated with the store at Town & Country, and has been a family-owned business for more than 100 years.
Mike said that half of their 5,500-square-foot store is dedicated to children’s footwear and that the store is well-known “for selection of style, width/size, and most importantly, FIT.”
Mike said their prices are competitive, and we run several “buy one, get one half price” promotions throughout the year, as well as several large semiannual clearance sales with shoes for kids priced less than $20.
Currently, children’s shoes are buy one pair at full price and get the second pair at half price. This sale runs through April 4. The store also will have a sandal sale in May, in which all sandals for men, women and children will be 10 percent to 50 percent off.
The locally owned store also supports local T-ball teams, church clothing drives, high school year book ads, donates to boy and girl Scout trips and more.
The best way to check it out is to see for yourself. The store is at 5500 N. Main St. between Markey and Philadelphia.
TweetCollege-themed Crocs sandals on sale
Just in time for the warm weather and in the spirit of March Madness, Crocs is having a big sale on their college-themed sandals/flip-flops.
The athens brand sandals are originally $34.99 and are on sale now for $9.99, and they seem to be selling out fast. In fact, Ohio State is sold out already.
There are still North Carolina, Duke, Tennessee and Michigan, among others, available.
TweetReaders laud Sears, Roderer
In my Here’s the Deal column Sunday, March 22, I talked about the best places in the Miami Valley to get kids’ shoes.
After weighing price, selection and whether the store sold shoe brands consumers were familiar with, my verdict was that Sears was the best place in the area to get kids’ shoes.
Reader Anita Shook wrote in with another reason get shoes, and shop for kids in general, at Sears.
She said that Sears has Kids Advantage, which allows you to purchase anything for your kids and when it wears out you return it with the original receipt and it is replaced for free. It must be same size and style/brand.
Shook said she has gotten 2-3 pairs of shoes off of one purchase this way.
“It also works on book bags, and you may never have to buy another book bag again,” she said. “When my kids outgrow that size I still take the shoes in for replacement and then hand them down to family members.
“For those families with kids whose are close in age this really works good for them, doesn’t have to go to the same child just be the same size.”
You just need to register to take part in the program.
Another reader wrote in endorsing Roderer Shoe Center for their service and ability to get shoes that are extra wide.
Sharon Nalepka said that when she takes her son to Roderer that she knows she is getting a shoe that will fit his 4E foot correctly. She said when he was younger, Stride Rite also would fit his foot correctly for his extra, extra wide foot.
Sharon also stressed the importance of a store taking the time to measure a child’s foot and make sure it fits correctly.
“You may pay more for shoes at these places, but most of the other shoe stores mentioned in your article do not take the time to measure your foot and then check to make sure the shoe fits correctly on the foot,” Sharon said.
“A bargain isn’t a bargain if it doesn’t fit correctly and causes untold damage to a child’s foot.”
What works best is to find a shoe that fits your child well, and that he or she doesn’t wear out. And, if you’re lucky, it will be one that can be purchased for less rather than more.
TweetHere’s the Deal: Where to get kids’ shoes
For this inaugural “Where’s the best place to get …?” feature for Here’s the Deal, I took a look at where to get children’s shoes in the Dayton area.
I considered price, selection and whether the store carried name brands.
What is important about name brands is that we consumers are more familiar with them and have a better idea of what we will get for our money. And durability, an important measure when considering an item’s value, is often dependent on how an individual wears a certain shoe.
The results of the search broke down into three pretty straight-forward categories: Expensive/Name Brands, Discounted Mix and Cheap/More Generic.
Expensive/Name Brands
Roderer Shoe Center in the Town & Country Shopping Center in Kettering has a small room in the back of the store devoted to kids’ shoes. It is a cute setup, with nice socks, Crocs and flip-flops, and a decent selection of popular name-brand shoes.
The problem is, Roderer has the name-brand prices as well, with prices generally between $40 and $70. The store does have a “clearance” table, with shoes marked down to $29.99 or less.
Athletic shoe stores such as Champs and Kids Foot Locker also are expensive and have a name-brand selection. The stores have some shoes on sale for $30 to $50.
Kids Foot Locker has a Value Zone, with cool Cookie Monster and Count from “Sesame Street” shoes, but those are $39.99.
Stride Rite in the Dayton Mall only has shoes for younger kids, with most styles ending at Size 3, and a few at Size 5. The store has prices on the expensive end and some name brands. It has Sperry Top-siders, which I haven’t heard about for 20 years.
Stride Rite is having a sale through April 5 offering Buy One Get One 50 percent off select styles.
Dick’s Sporting Goods also has a good amount of kids’ name-brand shoes and more often has decent sales.
Discounted Mix
Sears has a great selection of shoes, including many name brands such as Sketchers, adidas and Reebok — although the store does not carry Nike.
Sears prices are generally in the $30 to $40 range, but often has additional sales. In fact, Sears is having a TKS shoe sale, featuring fancier shoes for Easter, for around $18.
J.C. Penney has a decent selection, although not as extensive as Sears’. They also have shoes in the $30 to $40 range, and often have big sales.
Right now, J.C. Penney is having a Buy One Get One for $1 sale on select shoes. That sale ends Wednesday, when another sale will take its place, according to the sales folks.
The store has lots of Nike (as if picking up Sears’ slack) and Sketchers.
On a side note, Macy’s and Elder-Beerman do not sell kids’ shoes, except for Easter shoes (at Macy’s) and Crocs (at both).
Target has a fair selection, with decidedly more girls’ shoes than boys’. Prices were between $10 and $20. The store has a pretty good selection of Converse and some other name brands.
Kohl’s has a decent selection overall, with seemingly more boys’ shoes than girls’, and many name brands from $20 to $40.
Those prices are listed as “sale” prices, but I don’t know if Kohl’s has ever sold something for what they report as full price. The store always has those tiny electronic TV screens attached to the shoes that display the discounted price.
Cheap/More Generic
Payless Shoe Source is known for its discount shoes and lives up to that reputation. Most shoes are around $12.99, and the store sometimes has additional sales.
Right now the store is having a 40 percent off sale through Monday, March 23, on select styles.
Payless has more generic brands and the girls’ and boys’ shoes are mixed together, which can make for a more cumbersome search.
Marshall’s was recommended to me by a reader and I had high hopes, but wasn’t bowled over by their selection or display. There were some name brands, and the shoes are between $10 and $20.
Walmart has an OK selection, but carries few name brands. The store had many Starter brand shoes, whose logo is similar to Converse. They have many character shoes, featuring Thomas the Train and Hannah Montana, among others. Prices are between $10 and $15.
Meijer has a small selection, with some name brands like L.A. Gear and Falls Creek, and some character shoes. Prices at Meijer are around $20.
Bottom line
What works best is to find a shoe that fits your child well, and that he or she doesn’t wear out. And, if you’re lucky, it will be one that can be purchased for less rather than more.
However, all things considered, Sears was my top pick of the bunch.
TweetHere are 100 things you can make yourself
Life in 2009 is certainly convenient, but it also is expensive.
So, in an effort to examine this life — so it will truly be worth living, according to Mr. Socrates — we take a look at what things we can make ourselves that can save us many useful dollars.
Besides, some of these might be fun.
Fortunately for us, the folks over at BlissTree.com have compiled a list of 100 things we can make ourselves.
The best part of the site’s list is it provides links to tell you how to actually make those things.
Some seem like feasible options, like No. 1 Applesauce and No. 36 Bubbles, but others present more of a challenge, like No. 73 Biodiesel and No. 92 Hula Hoop.
TweetBargain clothing can freshen up spring wardrobes
I’m not one who believes in a seasonal wardrobe.
Of course, I don’t wear my black suede boots in the summer or break out the shorts in December, but for the most part, my closet is filled with pieces I can layer or mix-and-match year-round to get the most out of my clothing dollar.
If you evaluate what you currently own, you’ll probably find you have lots of useful, multi-season pieces that can be worn now with new spring looks. Cotton cardigans and long-sleeved T-shirts are two items you likely own that can help you bridge seasons.
Now that spring seems to be making itself known, I’m ready to get my hands on a few new pieces to spice things up. It’s easy to freshen up your darker winter wardrobe with a burst of color for only a little green.
At Old Navy, both on-line (oldnavy.com) and in stores, sundresses in delicious pastels and flirty florals start at $15. Pair one with a cardigan or long-sleeved T during the cooler spring weather, then shed the extra layer when summer officially arrives.
The suspended halter top, in funky prints and solid colors, is only $14.50 and will look great under a suit jacket. It can easily transition to summer when you pair it with a skirt or shorts.
Target (target.com) has its usual wide range of reasonably priced options. One standout is the Merona A-line skirt for only $12. While the style is timeless and flatters most figures, the twist is the bright pink hue.
Handbags in bright colors — butter yellow, bright blue and hot pink — can be had at J.C. Penney for less than $50.
Also at J.C. Penney (JCPenney.com), the a.n.a smocked keyhole blouse, a chiffon watercolor blouse with a smocked waist, is only $24.99 for misses and petite sizes. While it can be worn with jeans for a casual look, it can be dressed up for the office or an evening out.
Shopping online for spring has its benefits. Target is offering free shipping with a $50 purchase. Old Navy’s standard shipping rate is only $7, but becomes free if you add shoes from affiliated Web site Piperlime.com.
In addition to sale prices, J.C. Penney is offering an online coupon for $10 off a $50 purchase or $15 off a $75 purchase through Saturday, March 21.
Tweet90% off Chadwick’s clothes at Tuesday Morning
Guest Deals Teamer Kim Margolis, a reporter here at the Dayton Daily News, reports that the Tuesday Morning store behind the Town & Country Shopping Center in Kettering is having a big sale on Chadwick’s clothes.
Kim said Tuesday Morning has received a shipment of clothing from the catalog store Chadwick’s, which is based in Boston. The store offers women’s sportswear and career clothing.
Tuesday Morning is selling several blazers, pants, sweaters and spring tops from Chadwick’s for as much as 90 percent off the catalog price.
Town & Country is at Stroop Road and Far Hills Avenue.
Tweet3 mortgage scams to watch out for
The Mortgage Asset Research Institute reported recently to the Mortgage Bankers Association that mortgage fraud is on the rise. It identified the top 10 states for these incidents in 2008, and thankfully, Ohio isn’t one of them.
Teeny-tiny Rhode Island tops the list — how often does that happen? The institute notes that The Ocean State has more than “three times the expected amount of reported mortgage fraud for its origination volume.”
Sunny fraud destinations such as Florida and California both dropped in the list for 2008 — Florida from No. 1 to No. 2, and No. 4 to No. 8.
The institute also noted that there are three emerging mortgage fraud schemes that are new or increasing in popularity.
They are (in the institute’s own words):
Foreclosure Prevention Schemes: These generally involve fraudsters posing as professional, knowledgeable foreclosure specialists.
Homeowners facing the threat of foreclosure and nearing eviction are contacted by these “foreclosure specialists” who promise to work out their loan problems or buy their home and offer the homeowners tenancy.
Unfortunately for the homeowner, the fraudster has no intention of following through with these promises and instead will manipulate the homeowner into deeding the property to them.
Once the fraudster obtains the signed documents, a false lien release is generally filed or leveraged to secure funds from a fabricated sale or refinance on the property. In many cases, the homeowner is under the belief that they will rent the property for a period of time until they are in a better position to regain ownership rights.
The fraudster continues to accept payments made by the homeowner while selling the property, absconding with the funds, and eventually evicting the homeowners.
Perpetrators of this type of fraud often move from town to town, sizing up their opportunities, quickly scamming as many homeowners as possible, inflicting costly damages, and then moving on to the next location.
Elderly and Immigrant Identity Fraud: While not new, elderly and immigrant fraud is regaining popularity. In this predatory practice elderly and non- English-speaking consumers are taken advantage of by fraudsters who steal their identities and use them in strawbuying or other property transactions.
This is currently happening in some reverse mortgage situations. Similarly, some immigrants who rent properties are discovering that their identities have been used on fabricated loan transactions.
A simple inquiry about a loan product that leverages investment or rental properties can be enough to obtain information for use on fabricated loan transactions.
Builder Bail-Out Fraud: This involves securing funds for condominium conversion or planned community development properties that, unbeknownst to the investor, will not be completed.
The scams entail multiple purchases from would-be investors or false identities on fabricated loan transactions. Investors are lured by photos or inspections of a few converted units used as models with promises of further rehabilitation of remaining units.
Once the contracts are in place, the fraud continues as the perpetrator secures funding for the contracts; however, no additional work is done and the investors and lenders are left with incomplete and, in some cases, uninhabitable dilapidated buildings.
TweetSite offers 20 ways to make more money
Looking to put a little more money in your wallet? FreeMoneyFinance is there for you.
The Web site put together a list — one each day in February — of ways making more cash. They then compiled the list, weeding out a few, and presented it in the lump sum package for us this month.
Their list also contains links from the suggestions to ways to put the plans into action. I love when sites go that extra step. Check it out and see if at least one works for you.
TweetAcer computers recalled for burn hazard
Acer Predator desktop computers have been recalled, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.
The computers’ internal wiring can become bent or stripped, causing the wires to overheat while the product is in use. This poses a burn hazard to consumers.
Acer has received two reports of computers short circuiting, resulting in melted internal components and external casing. Neither incident occurred in the U.S. No injuries have been reported.
The high-end gaming machines in the recall have model numbers ASG7200 and ASG7700. Model numbers are printed on the bottom right corner of the panel on the right side of the system.
They were sold nationwide from May 2008 through December 2008 for between $2,000 and $6,000.
For additional information, contact Acer toll-free at (866) 695-2237, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.acer.com.
TweetPrices rose last month; could be good sign
Consumer prices rose in February by the largest amount in seven months, according to a USA Today report Wednesday, March 18, as gasoline prices surged again and clothing costs jumped the most in nearly two decades.
The Labor Department reported Wednesday that consumer inflation rose 0.4 percent in February, the biggest one-month jump since a 0.7 percent rise in July. Two-thirds of last month’s increase, which was slightly more than analysts expected, reflected a big jump in gasoline pump prices.
However, it was noted that the increase appeared to ease many economists’ concerns about dangerous price movements in either direction.
The recession is expected to dampen any inflation pressures for at least the rest of this year, while the slight uptick in prices over the last two months also has made the possibility of deflation more remote.Tweet
Walmart awards $2B to employees
USA Today reported today, March 19, that Walmart is awarding approximately $2 billion to its U.S. hourly employees through financial incentives.
That sum includes $933.6 million in bonuses.
The award comes after the world’s largest retailer gained market share amid a recession, according to the report.
In a memo to Walmart employees obtained by Reuters, CEO Mike Duke said, “While economic challenges forced others to step back, we moved forward.”
Duke said Wal-Mart now needs to “accelerate and broaden all of our efforts.”
TweetGetting you the consumer info you need
Here on this Here’s the Deal blog, I try to offer helpful information to area consumers through a variety of avenues — area sales, national shopping trends, reports on local stores that provide bargains, ways to save and spend, advice from experts, recalls, where to get freebies, what scams to watch out for, etc.
And there is another area of our Web site that provides information for the Miami Valley shopper. If you click on the Deals tab from our home page, you will find newspaper classifieds, coupon sites and printable coupons, newspaper ad information, local deals, links to multiple shopping blogs, and much more.
That spot also provides features, such as the current “What to buy in March.”
Also on our home page, there are Hot Topics, where you’ll often find discounts and coupons for local businesses.
As we move forward with this effort to provide money-saving information and help you get the most value for your dollar, I was wondering what information is most important to you, and what helps you the most.
So, if you have a minute, let me know what you want from this site by taking part in this poll. That will help us get you the information you need the most.
[an error occurred while processing this directive] TweetSalmonella outbreak nearing 700 sickened
The continuing salmonella outbreak linked to Peanut Corp. of America peanut products is very close to reaching 700 reported illnesses, and the recalled product list has gotten to a staggering 3,488 items.
And, according to federal health officials, cases are expected to continue to be reported for months.
“The numbers of new cases have declined substantially since the peak in December, but illnesses are still being reported among people who ate the recalled brands of peanut butter crackers after the recall,” the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said, as reported by NewsInferno.
“The outbreak is expected to continue at a low level for the next several months since consumers unaware that they have recalled products in their home continue to consume these products, many of which have a long shelf-life.”
For a complete list of the recalled products, visit www.fda.gov.
TweetDo’s and don’ts for your 401(k)
The average retirement portfolio lost 27 percent by the end of 2008, according to a CNN report, and has left many wondering how to handle their 401(k) funds.
So Gerri Willis, an author and CNN personal finance editor, has some tips for what to do with your 401(k) in this economy.
401(k) do’s
Keep investing.
Get diversified.
Fix the mix.
401(k) don’ts
Don’t tap for non-emergencies.
Don’t leave your 401(k) behind.
(And, the toughest one) Don’t lose heart.
TweetRestaurant helps schools raise money
You can help Springboro Schools and get a good lunch at the same time today.
Today only, March 19, if you visit the Springboro Max & Erma’s and present this PDF coupon, the restaurant will donate 20 percent of the proceeds to the school district.
You must present the coupon for your meal to be eligible, and the offer applies to dine-in and carry-out orders.
The goal of the fundraiser is to earn $1,000 that will go toward helping the committee create “Vote Yes” signs for the May 5 election.
Springboro officials will help at the restaurant today as well. The five-year, 4.11-mill emergency levy is expected to raise $3.9 million a year for the district, starting in 2010.
The Springboro Max & Erma’s is at 710 Gardner Road.
TweetMorris, Ashley offering 50% off and more
In what they have been calling their biggest sale of the year, Morris Home Furnishings and Ashley Furniture Homestore are offering at least half off all furniture, all leather and all mattresses.
If you are in the market for some furniture, you should check out this sale.
Morris stores are on Harshman Road and Wilmington Pike, and Ashley stores are near the Dayton Mall, Fairfield Commons mall and in Springfield.
TweetScenes from the recession
We all talk about the state of our global economy, but pictures can be so much more personal.
The Big Picture, a Web site out of Boston, has compiled a photo gallery of worldwide scenes from the recession.
The photos depict foreclosures, evictions, bankruptcies, layoffs, abandoned projects, and the people and industries caught in the middle.
Tweet‘Cheapskate’: How to save $20K per year
Jeff Yeager, the author of “The Ultimate Cheapskate’s Road Map to True Riches” has some ideas for saving $20,000 to $30,000 a year.
Yeager talked with Heidi Collins on Tuesday on “CNN Newsroom,” and the CNN site has a transcript of that conversation.
The highlights?
Ditch the cell phone
Give up a car (if you have more than one)
Don’t eat out
Don’t buy new clothes
College kids should live at home
And, above all, be content with less
TweetSpring dresses on sale at Old Navy
Spring dresses start at $15 during a sale going on at Old Navy. The sale is online and in the stores.
DealHack clued us in to the online bargains, noting that new styles and patterns for the spring season include sundresses, maxi dresses, flutter-sleeve dresses, scoop neck dresses, jersey dresses, roll-up shirt dresses and wrap dresses.
Also, shipping is free with Coupon Code: SHIPPL when you add any Piperlime item to your order. Otherwise, shipping is a flat $7 and can include Gap, Banana Republic, and Piperlime items for no extra S&H cost.
Dress sale savings offer is available on purchases through March 25.
Tweet7 tips for saving at the grocery store
The savvy Deal Seeking Mom, on her Web site of the same name, offered ideas for grocery shopping that are sure to save you cash.
Her seven ways to save money at the grocery store are:
1. Browse the weekly ads online before you go to the store: Weekly ads are in the Sunday Dayton Daily News and the circular usually can be found at that retailer’s Web site as well.
2. Combine online printable and clipped coupons with specials: Visit printable coupon Web sites (such as the ones listed on this site), use mailed or newspaper coupons and scout out the ads and use them together for the biggest savings punch.
3. Make a meal plan: See what you need at home and then pair your list with the advertised specials and coupons to make a full meal.
4. Avoid impulse buying: By knowing what you need and sticking to it, you will avoid excess spending.
5. Buy in bulk whenever possible: Having a box full of single-serving crackers to stick in your child’s backpack seems convenient, but the family size bag is usually far more economical. You’ll reduce your bill, and you’ll also be reducing waste, which is better for the environment. (I have also found that sometimes the single-serving food often tastes like it has been in the bag for a while.)
6. Shop at multiple stores: Compare ads for items you buy often.
7. Talk to the supermarket employees: Different grocery chains usually have certain days of the week and times of day when meat and other items are marked down because of set delivery days for those items. Don’t be afraid to chat up your butcher.
TweetWorkers paying more for health care
U.S. employers are reacting to rising health care costs by adopting consumer-directed health plans that can pass more of the costs on to employees, so says a study reported by CNN Money on Monday, March 16.
They said that more than 51 percent of U.S. employers now offer a consumer-directed health plan, which is up from 47 percent last year, according to the latest survey of 489 large U.S. employers from Watson Wyatt, a consulting firm specializing in employee benefits.
And another 8 percent of employers are expected to adopt a CDHP by 2010, the report said.
CDHPs are typically lower premium but higher deductible health plans, CNN said. They feature a kind of savings or spending account that helps employees pay their out-of-pocket expenses for covered services, or services that are not covered by a traditional plan.
Proponents of CDHPs say these plans promote more cost-conscious health care choices, and give consumers and employers tax-free savings vehicles through either a health savings account or a health reimbursement arrangement.
Critics say CDHPs shift more of the financial responsibility for the costs of medical care to employees.
“Employers aren’t offering these plans because employees want them, but because [companies] are clearly trying to lower their own benefits costs,” said Kathleen Stoll, director of health policy with consumer advocacy group Families USA.Tweet
More nuts in peanut butter recall
Here are the latest products as of Tuesday, March 17, to be recalled due to the salmonella outbreak at the now-bankrupt Peanut Corp. of America.
The recall has branched out from peanut butter and peanut paste to more nuts in recent weeks. The outbreak has caused the recall of hundreds of crackers, ice creams, cookies, nutrition bars, pet foods, trail mixes and more, to become one of the biggest food recalls in U.S. history.
For the complete list and more information, visit www.fda.gov.
You can also visit the site of a company directly to find out if their products are affected.
Here are the most recent recalls:
Kruse Farms Market: Honey Roasted Peanuts
Honest Foods: Choco Peanut Butter Baked Whole Food Bars
Texas Star Nut & Food Co.: Raw Peanuts
SCNS Sports Foods:10th Tee Peanut Honey Back Nine Golf Energy Bars
Weaver Popcorn Co.: 12 oz. (340g) Trail’s End® Chocolatey Peanut Clusters
Premier Packing Co.: Raw Redskin Peanuts, Raw Spanish Peanuts, Raw Blanched Redskin Peanuts, and Toasted Diced Peanuts
Diabetic Emporium: Chocolate Covered Peanuts
Kerry Inc.: Peanut Products
Euphoria Chocolate Co. of Eugene: Individually Wrapped Milk and Dark Chocolate Peanut Clusters
Dr. Smoothie Brands: Peanut Butter Crunch Bio Bars
Chocolate Chewies Inc.: Baba Joon’s Peanut Chocolate Chewie Cookies
Blue Heron Bakery: Spelt Peanut Butter and Spelt Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies and Mud Bay Trail Mix
Mighty-O: (Expanded) Donut Recall to include Nutty Vanilla, Chocolate Chocolate with Nuts, and Nutty French Toast donuts
Sweet Sisters Inc. Sweet Life Patisserie: (Expanded) Recall of Brownies, Bars, Cookies, Pies, Tartlets, Cheesecakes, Tortes, Silks and Cakes
Rock Creek Nut Co.: Trail Fix, Gourmet Delight and Quick Fix
Coos Head Food Store: MT Hood Trail Mix
Alaska Canine Cookies: Certain Canine Cookies
Country Village Nutrition Shoppe: Mt Hood Trail Mix
Farmer’s Market: Bulk Peanuts and Trail Mix
Dan the Sausageman: Honey Roasted Peanuts
Sherm’s Thunderbird Market Inc.: Bulk Peanuts and Bulk Peanut Butter (Ground in Store at Self-Serve Machine)
Cornucopia Natural Foods: Bulk Self-Serve Grind Peanut Butter
Anna’s Pantry LLC: Honey Roasted Peanuts, Cocktail Snack Mix and Roasted and Salted Mixed Nuts
PaleyBar: Jam-N-Peanuts Bars
The Peanut Shop: Chocolate Peanuts and Burnt Sugar Baked Bean Peanuts
Mixed Nuts Inc.: “Premium Orchard and Snack’rs Trail Mix Line”
Community Food Co-op: Bulk Peanuts and In-Store Ground Bulk Peanut Butter
DSD Services Inc.: Mega Trail Mixes
Michaelene’s Inc./ Michaelene’s Gourmet Granola: Granola
TweetU.S. bans diseased cattle
A rule was finalized this weekend, according to Reuters, that will ban so-called “downer” cattle from entering U.S. slaughterhouses.
Newsinferno reported Monday, March 16, that the U.S. Department of Agriculture finalized the rule nearly one year after the largest meat recall in American history.
In 2008, a shocking video was released that showed a California plant forcing sick and injured cattle into a slaughterhouse. Shortly after, the USDA proposed the total downer cattle ban.
“This rule is designed to enhance consumer confidence and humane handling standards and will provide clear guidance that non-ambulatory cattle will not be allowed to enter the human food supply,” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in a statement, adding, “It is a step forward for both food safety and the standards for humane treatment of animals,” quoted Reuters.
Newsday noted that the federal ban is permanent, preventing cows too ill or weak to stand on their own from being slaughtered.
This step is to help minimize the possibility of the deadly and brain-wasting mad cow disease in the American food supply.
TweetRecession can be great — if you are young
Yeah, we know. It is great to be young.
And, as if to hammer in that point in a current events sort of way, the folks over at MSN Money are pointing out that if you are younger than 35, this whole recession thing might actually be a great thing for you.
Unlike how it is for those of us who are 35 or older, that is; those of us for whom the financial crisis is but a drain on our retirement funds, killer of home equity and job prospects, and abuser of credit lines.
If you’re young, the story says, the biggest threat to your future financial security isn’t the current crisis — your greatest risk is that fear will cause you to miss some once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.
Among the benefits to “youngsters”:
Houses are on sale. Home prices are down 27 percent from their July 2006 peaks, according to the S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices, and values have fallen more than 40 percent in some areas.
Those just starting out who can now afford better homes and neighborhoods than they could have just a few years ago.
Prices could drop further, but for now, interest rates are still near generational lows but are likely to shoot up once the recovery begins.
And the Internal Revenue Service will give you an $8,000 tax credit if you buy before Dec. 1.
Stocks are on sale. If you’ve got at least 30 years until retirement, your investment should be sound. Even those who invested before and during the Great Depression, when stock indexes plunged by up to 90 percent, eventually came out ahead.
Credit is tight. So you won’t be able to borrow your way into trouble, at least for a while, as much as your elders. You may actually learn to live within your means.
TweetWhat are the most popular coupons?
Coupon usage is up, according to myriad retail outlets and Coupons.com, which refers to itself as the leading network for digital coupons.
The network reported that shoppers printed $39 million in savings from their site alone in February, which is an increase of $21 million since the same time last year.
According to Simmons Market Research Bureau, more than 40 million people currently print online coupons, which is up 20 percent from last year.
I thought it was interesting to see which coupons got the most usage. So, here is a list the site compiled of the most popular coupon categories from the past month.
The most popular coupons, as of February, are:
Ready to eat cereal
Yogurt
Salty snacks
Personal care items
Portable snacks
Baking ingredients
Frozen vegetables
Nutritional/diet items
Carbonated soft drinks
Bathroom tissue
How does your spending compare?
U.S. News and World Report had an interesting interactive chart on their site last week that gave you the chance to see how your spending compares with the national average.
You enter how much you spend on housing, entertainment, food, etc., and the mechanism then compares your answers to the average using cool pie charts.
I found out that I spend more on food and clothes than average (I blame my sons), but do OK on housing and transportation. Good to know.
How do you fare?
TweetDonate coupons to South Y, surgery center
I wrote a column Sunday, March 15, asking where people can donate the coupons in the Dayton area that they don’t need, and have gotten some great feedback from area readers.
Michelle Eldridge wrote in Sunday, March 15, to let folks know that if you wish to donate coupons, you can do so at the South YMCA in Kettering.
The facility at David and Marshall roads has a basket that people can drop off their coupons or take coupons as needed.
Laura Duncan, who works at the South Y, said the basket is maintained by members of the Silver Sneakers program, a seniors group at the facility.
“The coupons aren’t sorted, but the Silver Sneakers remove the expired coupons,” Duncan said.
She added that the program is relatively new.
“The basket is right at the front (of the facility),” she said. “It has been there since before Christmas.”
Calling around to other YMCAs, it seems that the program might be unique to the South Y facility. However, that might be a good trend to start at other Ys, especially in this more challenging economy.
Another location that accepts coupons for their employees and contributes the expired ones to a military base overseas is the Greater Dayton Surgery Center, 1625 Delco Park Drive in Kettering.
Reader and registered nurse Denise Harvey said the surgery center at has a coupon share for their employees, and helps out a Naval base in Sasebo, Japan.
For more information, call (937) 535-2200.
On a separate note, reader Joan Burdeshaw noted that another way to help is to donate canceled postage stamps.
The organization Stamps for Children solicits donations of used stamps (both United States and foreign) and then distributes them for free to any children’s group (schools, Scouts, etc.) in need.
To participate, send your stamps to c/o Harold Effner, 27 Pine St., Lincroft, NJ 07738.
TweetBeauty bargains, product reviews online
In case you missed it this past Saturday, March 14, in the Dayton Daily News Life section like I did (I was out of town), there was a reference to a Web site that rates cosmetics and other beauty products, and tells you which are best for your money.
Best-selling beauty author Paula Begoun runs the subscription Web site ($24.95 per year), BeautyPedia.com.
Here is a list of her recession-proof beauty picks. Prices vary by location.
Best inexpensive foundation without sunscreen for normal to dry skin
Cover Girl TRUblend Liquid Makeup, $9.49
Sonia Kashuk Perfecting Liquid Makeup, $10.49
Rimmel Recover Illuminating Anti-Fatigue Foundation, $7.99
Best inexpensive foundation without sunscreen for normal to oily/combination skin
L’Oreal Paris Ideal Balance Balancing Foundation for Combination Skin SPF 10, $12.49
Maybelline New York Pure.Makeup, $5.99
Prestige Cosmetics MultiTask Wet/Dry Powder Foundation, $7.49
Best inexpensive foundation with sunscreen for normal to dry skin
Revlon ColorStay Makeup with SoftFlex for Normal to Dry Skin SPF 15, $12.99
Clinique Dewy Smooth Anti-Aging Makeup SPF 15, $21.50
Almay Line Smoothing Compact Makeup SPF 15, $13.99
Best inexpensive foundation with sunscreen for normal to oily/combination skin
Revlon Beyond Natural Skin Matching Makeup SPF 15, $12.99
Neutrogena Healthy Skin Liquid Makeup Oil-Free SPF 20, $10.99
L’Oreal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Makeup SPF 17, $9.99
Best inexpensive blushes
Jane Blushing Cheeks Powder Blush, $3.79
Wet n Wild Silk Finish Blush, $2.99
Maybelline New York Dream Mousse Blush, $7.49
Best inexpensive concealers
L’Oreal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Concealer, $7.39
Revlon Age Defying Concealer SPF 20, $8.99
Boots Botanics Totally Concealed, $7.99
Best inexpensive lip glosses
e.l.f. Super Glossy Lip Shine SPF 15, $1
Rimmel Vinyl Lip, $5.50
Avon Lip Swirls Gloss, $3.99
Best inexpensive lipsticks (All listed have a creamy texture and soft gloss finish)
Jane Lipkick Rich Color Lipstick, $4.49
Wet n Wild Wild Shine Lip Lacquer, $2.99
N.Y.C. New York Color Ultra Moist LipWear, $.99
Best inexpensive long-wearing lip color
Cover Girl Outlast All-Day Lipcolor, $9.99
Maybelline New York Superstay Lipcolor, $9.99
Wet n Wild MegaLast Long-Lasting Lip Color, $3.99
TweetCVS offers free stuff, savings, Bucks
The Deal Seeking Mom has a list of CVS deals this week, starting Sunday, March 15. See her site for all the details.
The deals, which run through Tuesday, include free items, buy-one-get-one-free sales and many ways to earn Extra Care Bucks.
Tweet10 pairs of Foster Grant sunglasses for $9.99
If you really like to have a variety of sunglasses on hand, or want to share your bounty with friends and family, this deal may be for you.
Foster Grant, a well-known name in the sunglass industry, has a deal going on right now in which you can get 10 pairs of men’s or women’s sunglasses for $9.99. The same package would retail for $149.50.
Foster Grant notes that the men’s and women’s collections, for the most part, will be the same. The only difference is that for the men’s sunglasses we will not include glasses that would typically be considered a women’s style.
The styles include sport, legends, Daytona drivers and more, are 100 percent UVA-UVB protection, and regularly retails from $9.99 to $19.99 per pair.
The styles are from 2007-08, so if you need the latest fashion, this might not be for you. If you don’t, it is a good deal.
TweetBe a friend, get free Krispy Kreme doughnut
Hungry? Friendless? Well, maybe not, but are you friends with Krispy Kreme?
The glazin’ hot doughnut palace is offering a deal that gets you a free doughnut when you join Friends of Krispy Kreme.
When you sign up, you receive a coupon good for one free glazed doughnut. The offer is valid at the local outlet on Dorothy Lane in Kettering.
What does it mean to be a Friend of Krispy Kreme? It means you will regularly receive information about new products, special offers and local events.
So, if you like your doughnuts and want to know when there are deals to be had, it might be worth your while.
TweetFood retailers demanding price cuts
CNBC is reporting this morning, March 16, that food retailers are starting to demand that manufacturers cut prices to match the recent retreat in ingredient costs.
Retailers reportedly went along when food makers pushed up prices to recoup record-high costs in recent months, but are now starting to rebel.
And they aren’t backing down.
Consumers, many of whom responded to the higher prices by favoring grocers’ in-house products over national brands and by shopping more at discounters, may end up with fewer choices all around. But the prices may be lower.
“We don’t have to carry three brands,” Costco Wholesale Corp.’s Chief Financial Officer Richard Galanti told investors earlier this month. “We can choose between brands that are going to be more aggressive, that help us help our members.”
CNBC also noted that food companies are trying to focus promotions (negotiated with grocers) on staples such as dairy, cereal and soup, said BMO Capital Markets analyst Kenneth Zaslow.
Eggland’s Best Inc., the nation’s largest branded egg company, is asking supermarkets, “If we give you so many cents off, would you give that to the customer,” said Chief Executive Charlie Lanktree.
At the same time, many retailers are increasing their promotions of house brands, Zaslow said.
Some 64 percent of shoppers in 2008 said they often or always buy a store brand rather than a national one, according to the Food Marketing Institute, an industry trade group. That’s up from 59 percent the prior year.
Kroger Co. saw sales of its in-house brands hit a record 27 percent of total sales in the most recent quarter.
The company’s CEO, David Dillon, said after its most recent earnings report that Kroger is pushing producers back on prices.
But he also said high pricing of national brands is helping bring customers to store brands — “so we are quite happy in either scenario.”
Retailers are getting happy again. That has to be good news.
TweetTipp City store has clothing deals
Deals Teamer Constance Post of West Milton mentioned a new store she found that offers great deals on clothing.
It is called The Clothesline, and it is at 22 N. Second St. in Tipp City.
Constance said most items are $4 or less, and the store has sales that identify items with tags that are half price everyday. All items are donated and the money goes to charity.
The hours are 2 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays.
Constance said they also have wedding gowns, prom dresses and mother of the bride dresses.
Check it out!
TweetHere’s the Deal: Where to donate coupons?
A friend of mine here at work had a great idea that I don’t think has been explored in this area.
She asked me if there was anywhere she could donate her unused coupons to benefit others in the community.
I know of coupon Web sites that accept donations, such as www.couponshare.com, and have recently heard of coupon donations that can be made to military families overseas via the Overseas Coupon Program.
Expert shopping/blogging moms Carrie Koors of Liberty Twp. and Andrea Deckard of Monroe clued me in on that program, which serves military families by sending manufacturers coupons overseas for use by families at military bases.
For more on that charity, visit ocpnet.org/.
But locally, while I have found a great deal of interest in donating coupons, I have yet to find a place that collects and offers these coupons for others to use.
If you know of any Dayton-area organizations that need excess coupons or ones that provide this service for others, please e-mail me at jikelley@DaytonDailyNews.com or call (937) 225-7325.
I will put the results up here, and include them in next Sunday’s Here’s the Deal column in the Life section.
This week’s deals
I thought there would be more St. Patrick’s Day deals to report for this week’s column, but I haven’t come across any that aren’t selling green hats and four-leaf clovers.
But there are plenty of great spring sales today and throughout this week.
Sears is celebrating the season Friday and Saturday, March 20-21, with 40 percent off girls’ dresses and boys’ dresswear just in time for Easter, 30 to 40 percent off fashion jewelry and an extra 15 percent off if you bring in the flier in today’s newspaper.
J.C. Penney also is thinking spring, with 30 to 50 percent off many items of women’s clothing and handbags, up to 50 percent off kids’ spring fashions and the continuation of the store’s custom window coverings sale.
Morris Home Furnishings is having what it calls its biggest sale of the season now through March 24, offering 50 percent off and the opportunity to pay nothing for 12 months to qualified buyers.
Office Depot, Best Buy, Target and Big Lots also are having big sales this week. Look for fliers in today’s paper.
Deals Team reports
It is nearly spring, so that means it is time for the first TWIG sales of the year. These sales of gently used children’s items benefit area families as well as Children’s Medical Center of Dayton. TWIG is an auxiliary member of Children’s.
Deals Team member Dana Clayton of Vandalia mentioned that the TWIG 45 organization is having its Moms Mart on Saturday, March 28, at Smith Middle School in Vandalia. I will have more about that sale in next week’s column.
The Springboro group, TWIG 3, is having its sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 21, at Clearcreek Elementary School, 750 S. Main St.
Tweet5 facts about naming beneficiaries
It is hard to make sure your money is spent wisely, and that’s even more true if you are dead. CNN put together a list of five things to know about naming beneficiaries to make sure the money gets to who you want, when you want.
Top five things to know about naming beneficiaries:
1. Your will has no jurisdiction. Accounts with beneficiary designations — such as IRAs, 401(k)s, insurance policies and annuities — aren’t governed by your will. So even if you wrote an ex out of your will eons ago, he or she would still get, say, your IRA if you never changed its beneficiary.
Lesson: Review choices periodically, especially after major life events. Also, don’t leave beneficiary forms blank. Accounts then go to probate court for distribution, and rules on who gets what vary by state.
2. You should name a runner-up. You should you pick a contingent beneficiary for your accounts. Otherwise, if your primary beneficiary dies before you, the account goes to probate. Naming a No. 2 also gives the primary the option to execute a qualified disclaimer, which passes the inheritance to the contingent without gift taxes.
3. Retirement accounts have quirky inheritance rules. With IRAs and 401(k)s, there are advantages to naming a spouse over a child. Your partner can roll over such accounts into his or her name, thus postponing distributions and taxes until age 70½.
But if your kid inherits, she must start taking distributions — and paying tax on them — the year after your death. Also, avoid listing your estate as beneficiary. By law, heirs then must empty the account within five years, which could cost them investment gains and bump them to a higher tax bracket.
4. Naming a minor is a quick ticket to probate. In most states, the court must supervise the distribution of money left to kids younger than 18 — a slow and potentially costly process. But you can circumvent probate by having an attorney set up a trust in the child’s name (cost: usually $750 to $1,500).
A trust also lets you have more control - for example, you can require that Junior graduate from college before getting payouts.
5. Changing beneficiaries is easier than changing the filter in your coffee pot. Many financial firms make beneficiary forms available online. You can also call to request them. (Or if this task will end up last on your long to-do list, give your estate attorney permission to contact the institutions for you.)
To name a new beneficiary, all you’ll need is the person’s birth date and, sometimes, Social Security number. Make copies of any form you submit, and request written confirmation. Store a master list of accounts and beneficiaries with the rest of your estate documents.
CNN also has an “ultimate guide to retirement” that is worth a gander.
TweetPittsburgh close, affordable, interesting
After a long, cold, windy winter, it’s time to start thinking about a vacation, but with most of us facing tighter budgets, travel for spring break may have to be modified.
I’m dreaming of a cafe au lait in Paris or some sunny locale that requires my passport. Reality being what it is, I’m ready to load the car and head east, no special paperwork required.
For a reasonably priced family-friendly vacation, consider Pittsburgh. With drive time of under four hours (or two complete viewings of your children’s favorite DVD), the trip is an easy one.
Pittsburgh is an old steel town that has made the move into the 21st century. The economy has shifted from manufacturing to health care, education, technology, robotics and financial services.
The city at the confluence of the Monongahela and Allegheny rivers, which forms the Ohio River, is divided into five districts. Be sure to visit Squirrel Hill and Shadyside for unique shopping and interesting ethnic food.
Home to Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh, the city boasts an impressive selection of museums, parks and other attractions.
The Carnegie Museum system includes the Museum of Natural History, Museum of Art, Carnegie Science Center and the Andy Warhol Museum. One price buys entrance to the natural history and art museums for the day. Go to carnegiemuseums.org for more information.
Other sites include the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium, Rodef Shalom Synagogue (a biblical-themed garden), The Mattress Factory (contemporary installation art) and National Aviary.
Adult admission hovers around $10; most facilities offer discounts for children and seniors.
Hotels can be had for whatever you’d like to spend, but Web sites such as Hotels.com offer options for less than $150 per night. To save more, try to book a hotel with breakfast.
Most museums, especially those that cater to children, don’t mind if you brown bag a lunch.
Whatever you do, don’t miss the burnt almond torte — layers of homemade yellow cake, custard filling and buttercream frosting covered in sugar-coated toasted almonds — at Prantl’s Bakery, 5525 Walnut St., Shadyside.
For more attractions and lodging information:
travel.nytimes.com/travel/guides/north-america/united-states/pennsylvania/pittsburgh/overview.html
TweetStimulus, IRS scams gaining popularity
According to CNN, con artists are alreadydevising ways to try to steal your stimulus money.
But don’t think that is keeping them too busy to try to capitalize on your vulnerability during tax season.
One IRS-based scam to watch out for of late involves e-mails claiming to be from the IRS saying you’re owed a tax refund.
Here’s an example of an e-mail that was sent to a CNN-staffer:
“After the last annual calculations of your fiscal activity we have determined that you are eligible to receive a tax refund under section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Tax refund value is $189.60. Please submit the tax refund request and allow us 6-9 days in order to IWP the data received.”
It is important to remember that the IRS does not e-mail taxpayers with requests for personal information, and does it doesn’t ask for bank account or other personal information by phone.
As far as the stimulus leaches, one scam that has been reported involves an ad that says you can order a CD or an “easy grant solution kit” to show you how to get thousands of dollars in government grants.
But, of course, it’s not free. And CNN warns that your credit card could be charged repeatedly.
Tweet300-thread count mattress pad for $4.49
Target.com is selling a 300-thread count mattress pad — in white — for $4.49. That’s a 90 percent discount over the list price of $44.99 and a savings of more than $40.
Wise Bread alerted us to this deal, as well as one for The Chronicles of Narnia Blu-ray Bundle (an Amazon exclusive) for $29.99. That’s 58 percent off the list price of of $70.98. Also, this item ships for free with Super Saver Shipping.
Wise Bread has other stellar deals on their site listed as best for today, March 12.
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