October 2007 Archives

The Bargain Hunter column in the LA Daily News that has been running every Thursday is moving to Monday. So there will not be a column tomorrow, Nov 1, but I have lots of goodies for Monday's column. Thanks for being patient and sticking with me during this change!

The Budget Fashionista has some clever last minute Halloween costumes, like being the Ipod Commercial: "Cost: $0-$5, if you have the iPod. How to do it...The costume is very simple- just wear black from head to toe, add your add iPod, and bust a move." Or there's always the Devil in a Blue Dress option. "Cost: $5-$10, if you have a blue dress. How to do it: Pick up devil horns, a tail and pitchfork in the Halloween clearance section at your favorite discount department mecca, and wear them with that blue dress for a different twist on the traditional “devil” look." Check out the BF for cheap ideas on how to be leftovers, June Cleaver, the Devil Wears Prada, or Dirty Laundry.

TODAY ONLY! Avon has slashed their online makeup prices by up to 50%. Plus get free shipping on tabs of $10 or more with coupon code BEWITCHED. Beyond Color Lash Fortifying mascara is $3 (orig $7.50). Paired lip colors and moisturizers, above, are $3 (orig $6) and a Glazewear Lipstick with gloss and color combined is $4 (orig $8). Emery boards are 69-cents (orig $1) and precise satin lipcolors, below, are $2 (orig $8). Search all the makeup sales here.

The online upscale clothier YOOX.com has a few sale pages of items marked off up to 80%. With such deep discounts sizes are limited, although their Web site makes it easy on you by noting what sizes are left next to a thumbnail picture of the item. For most items the sale ends today, Halloween!

This Philosophy short dress, in pink size 8 or black size 6 and 8 is $99 (orig $330). I also like this mini-skirt in white (size 4 and 6) or redish-orange (size 2, 4 and 6) with lax pleats for $48 (orig $158). This Prada sports jacket in Army green in size 10 is $84 (orig $418). Men's sale items here. Their return policy gives you 15 days to return an item.

Sign up for the Bargain Hunter Daily Digest and get all the day's new deals and discounts emailed to you. I send it once a day. To join email me at julia.scott@dailynews.com

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Best Buy's Wednesday hot deals have some decent prices on a limited number of items. A DVD of X-Men: The Last Stand is $7.50 (orig $20). The System Mechanic 7Professional for Windows is $10 (orig $70). The Targus Blacktop Standard Notebook case in blue/black is $40 (orig $52). See all the deals here.

Get a free meal at McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurants on Veteran's Day Sun Nov 11 during their annual Veterans Appreciation Event. Not sure if they have a standard meal or if you get to eat lobster and steak free! Bring your VA card, VFW card, American Legion card, discharge papers, DD214, or other veterans ID to show to your server.

Visit them at 3500 West Olive Avenue in Burbank (818) 260-0505; at 111 North Los Robles in Pasadena (626) 405-0064; at Two Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills (310) 859-0434; at Hope and Fourth in Downtown Los Angeles (213) 629-1929; at 2101 Rosecrans Avenue in El Segundo (310) 416-1123; at 2000 Main Street in Irvine 949-756-0505; at 2791 N Main St. in Santa Ana (714) 558-1963. Find a participating restaurant near you.

My Little Pretty is not a line of jewelry I am familiar with, however the stuff on their Web site looks great, and much of it is 40% off! They are taking the brand "in a new and exciting direction" and are clearing out all their old stock. So the sale is only while supplies last. I am really tempted by these Fire Agate earrings with Sterling silver that hang down about an inch for $18 (orig $30). I also like these Gold Stone and Coral Mother of Pearl earrings for $27 (orig $45).
Check out their bracelets here and their necklaces here. Use coupon code MLP_2007CloseOut during checkout.

You can also shop in person when they are at the Fashion Co-Op at the Santa Monica Civic Center December 7th and 8th. SMCC is at 1855 Main St. Santa Monica. Hours are Fri 8pm-11pm - VIP, Sat 10am-4pm - Gen Adm.

This was just too funny to pass up.

Gotta love the Canadians.

The Black Friday madness is starting particularly early this year, thanks in part to BFads.net, a Web site that is advance publishing what sales major retailers will be offering on Friday, Nov. 23, the day after Thanksgiving and one of the biggest shopping days of the year. Nearly everybody has the day off (I'm one of the unlucky few :( ) so stores encourage people to jump start their holiday shopping early with sales. Shoppers can save big but they also have to deal with endless lines and mobbed stores. So far they only have the ads for Macys, Sears, Ace Hardware and Harbor Freight, but I expect many more to be coming so check back. With the lists you can compare prices and streamline your shopping waaaaaay ahead of time.

Costco recently started a trade-in program for PCs, LCD monitors, digital cameras, camcorders, game systems and MP3 players. They give you a Costco gift card for the value of the trade in. If your old crap ain't worth nothin' they will recycle it for free. Yay! I tried it with my old school 20G iPod, not that I want to trade it in, and the site estimated the value was $56. My Mac laptop, which I DO want to get rid of, apparently has a value of $40. Not exactly a downpayment on a new one. Sigh.

Check how much your old stuff is worth here.

It may already be too late to get a relatively decent price at the gas pump because prices started to creep up last week. But analysts say we should be prepared to see another bump, according to a story today in the LA Times. (Basically a weak dollar is driving the cost of crude up yada yada yada.) So fill up...10 minutes ago! LosAngelesGasPrices.com lists $3.05 at the Valero (cash only) at Sherman Way and Tampa, $2.99 at the Costco (membership required) at Sepulveda and Erwin. You can't find anything better when paying by credit card so for the rest of us, there's $3.09 at the Chevron on Woodman and Sherman Way or $3.07 at the Shell on Sherman Way and White Oak. Check the map for best prices near you, and note the time and day the price was reported. If it's not from today, it has probably already gone up.

Get a free beef taco at Taco Bell TODAY only between 2 and 5 pm. It's some promotion they are doing connected to the World Series wherein everytime a base is stolen they give away tacos. The series ended Sunday night with the Red Sox sweeping the Colorado Rockies in case you are *really* out of the loop (like me). But it doesn't matter if you even like baseball, you can still get a free taco. Read the fine print here. Find a Taco Bell near you.

Buy.com is selling the 6-DVD set of Sex in the City for $180, about $20 bucks less than the nearest competitior, plus free shipping. Amazon has it for $198, Shopping.com lists one independent seller (like on eBay) for $172 but the seller says the case is cracked. DeepDiscount.com has it for $194. Now you can watch hours and hours of Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte tripping their way thru Manhattan wearing fabulous clothes and having great sex with gorgeous men. Oh, how I miss those girls.

A friendly bargain hunter who lives behind the Orange Curtain brought me a copy of the Sunday OC Register, where I found a glossy pullout ad full of color from Ulta Beauty. The deals seemed amazing, $1 off here, 50% off there! I checked the Web site's prices on a few items I buy and the dream seems to be true. Prices are very good. For ex, Ulta sells an 8-ounce container of the facial cleanser Cetaphil for $5.39, which I paid $7 for at Rite Aid. They sell a 12.6-ounce bottle of href="http://www.ulta.com/control/product/~product_id=2146071">Pantene shampoo for $3.39, which sells for $3.50 to $4 at most drugstores.

So now onto the makeup. They have two kits that seem like a great deal. For $25 you can get a Holiday Blockbuster pullout kit that includes 28 eye shadows, 12 lip colors, 4 lipsticks, 4 nail polishes, 2 lip glosses, 2 concealers, 2 pencil liners, 2 shimmer powders, applicators, and it all comes in a shiny gold or black case. Use code 90890 and get it for $20! The value, according to Ulta, is $195.

If that's just way too much makeup for you, I like the Smashbox Try Me Set for $29 (value of $98, site says). It includes a sample size foundation primer, lip closs in crystal, under eye brightener tube, a brow and eye liner palette with 10 colors, two brushes, and an instructional DVD with makeup tips.

They also have a buy 2 get one free on OPI nailpolish and L'oreal skincare OR cosmetics (but they can't be combined). Nearest store seems to be in Burbank, but a lot of the deals are online only.

Borders has a 30% off printable coupon good for members today and tomorrow, Halloween. Membership is free but you have to sign up in the store, not online. Minimum purchase of $10 required. Print the coupon. Also good at Waldenbooks and Borders Express. Find a store near you.

Caveats: not good on online purchases, gift cards, periodicals, comics, non-stock special orders, coupon books, digital downloads, Rosetta Stone® software, all electronics, including the Sony® Reader and the Zune™, and shipping.

If you still don't have a Halloween costume for your tot or yourself, don't fret. CityMommy had a great post today about a 25% off sale on EVERYTHING at buycostumes.com. Use coupon code sweep25 to get the discount. Get the costumes on Halloween with express shipping ($9 when you spend up to $60 and $6 over $60) or Oct 30 when you pay for premium shippping ($18 on any order up to $60 and $12 on all orders over $60). That *would* eat up the 25% off, but if it works for you, kudos. Discount expires Nov 2.

Get 15% off soaps at Crabtree and Evelyn when shopping online. Enter coupon code SOAP15 when checking out, below credit card info. This avocado soap sounds really creamy, but three bars are $13.6 with the coupon (orig $16). This Nadira soap is on sale for $8.50 (orig $17) and still gets your three bars. It is made of shea butter, oils of grapeseed, sweet almond and sesame. Here's a vegetable glycerin soap that is the same price ($8.50). Search all their soaps. Unclear when the sale ends.

This deal will either make you squeal with delight or groan very loudly. If you are like me your blended reaction will sound something like this: Eeeeeaaahhhoooooowwwwgrrrr$!@*. It's a great deal, but unfortunately it's also that time of year when everyone wants you to spend money on needless holiday crap. Be your own judge of where this 6-CD set of Christmas music falls on that spectrum. Graveyard mall is selling it for $6 plus there is $5 shipping on the deal of the day. Does that mean shipping goes up to the normal $7 rate tomorrow? Dunno. The set includes 100 holiday favorites from Ben E. King, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Mahalia Jackson, Jose Feliciano, Kenny Rogers, and The Fireside Singers.

Acapulco restaurants has a coupon for a $3.50 entree when you buy one at full price. Their prices are high to start with ($11 for a burrito?) but if you like going there this is a good deal. Expires Nov 23, 2007. Find a location near you.

Toy 's Us is giving away $10 off cards when you spend $75 or more until Nov 21, 2007. There are lots of caveats though. The gift card expires Dec 31, 2007 and diapers, formula, video game hardware, phone orders, or gift cards do not count towards the original $75 purchase. If you are getting a head start on your holiday shopping $75 is not hard to spend. Find a store near you.

Michael's has a 40% off coupon for one full priced item that unfortunately does not include faux Christmas trees 4 feet and taller. But they do have a lot of other holiday decorations on sale. Good thru Nov 3, 2007. Find a store near you.

Get a $10 off coupon at Sur la Table and combine that with their ongoing $5 off deal to get $15 off a purchase of $15. Wahoo! Free stuff. Use coupon code 113007 but make sure your bill equals at least $15 or it won't work. I like this honey pumpkin serving bowl that has lots of matching plates and tureens, for $25. The $5 off shows up in your shopping cart and you enter the coupon code on the same page as your credit card info (at the bottom of the page). Unclear when it expires but great deals like this do not last long! If you don't need anything think about checking an item off your Christmas list!

Free shipping on all cookware sets, knife block sets, coffee makers and espresso makers thru Dec 31, 2007. Thanks SlickDeals.

UPDATE: So many people used this coupon that Sur la Table killed it. It's not good any longer. Thanks, Earl!

There's a sWEateR sale at dELiAs, with knits starting at $24. 50. I like this button down cardigan with a little puff in the shoulders. Girly, but something you could totally wear to work and not so heavy as to over do our mild winters here in LA. It comes in all sizes in burgundy and navy and is $29.50 (orig $32.50). I also like this hoodie sweater that is great for layering, for $34.50 (orig $39.50). In blue, light blue, pink, and oatmeal. No stores in Cali so ya gotta shop online.

Unclear how long the sale lasts. Shipping is free when your tab is $75 or more until Oct 30. Otherwise shipping is based on how much you spend, for $0-$25.00 it's $5.95, for $25.01-$50.00 it's $7.95, for $50.01-$75.00 it's $9.95. Read their return policy here.

UPDATE: Get free shipping on a tab of $25 or more with coupon code DTQW25. Thanks Bargain Buddy!

Free shipping on furniture this weekend only at Overstock.com. I have been wanting to buy matching bedroom furniture or at least a nice wood bed frame for awhile. I like this dark wood modern look for $1,950 (orig $5,500). But I am a little wary of making such a big purchase online. The set includes a dresser, mirror, two nightstands and queen size bed that would allow hubby can hang his feet off the edge when sleeping (necessary). This set for $1900 (orig $3,800) is similar but the lines are even cleaner.
The craftman mission style also has got me excited, for $3,100 (orig $3,900).

Read their return policy for general items. For bulky items like furniture their return policy is that once you sign for the delivery you pay for any return shipping charges. So you have to inspect really carefully and refuse it if it is damaged. Shipping charges are normally $100 to $700 so take your time.

Get free ground shipping on tabs of $25 and up at PetSmart (normally you have to spend $50 for free shipping) with code FALLFS. Expires Nov 7, 2007. I like this set of doggie bones and treats for $38 to $48. Or these Piggy Twists for $7 to $20 seem like they would make any pooch happy. Oink oink!

Get an extra 20% off of sale items at Espirit. Use code YAW24. This white top is super cute with bunching around the waist, shoulders and scoop neck. For $12 (orig $40) but in L only. Would go perfectly with this black pleated skirt for $18 (orig $60), in 6, 8, and 14. Lots of other cute stuff, but limited sizes so check before you get your heart set. And shoes, how could I forget the shoes? There is only one pair but it is fab.

The blog Free Money Finance has an interesting take on a Newsweek article about whether money can buy happiness, to which my reponse is: Ditto. The post goes: "Here's round 372 (or at least it feels that way) of the "does money buy happiness?" debate. I don't think I've ever seen anything reliable that says the more money you have, the happier you are. But I have seen studies saying that the more money you have up to a point, the happier you are. After that, more money doesn't bring more happiness. This article from Newsweek details this money/happiness relationship:

Wealth increases human happiness when it lifts people out of abject poverty and into the middle class but that it does little to increase happiness thereafter.

That's at the beginning of the piece. Throughout the rest of the article, Newsweek argues that there is no relationship between money and happiness. I'll let you read through their various arguments yourself, but the title of the piece is "Why Money Doesn’t Buy Happiness," so you can guess where they end up.

I'm with the former idea myself. I think money does make people happier up to a point and after that, it doesn't do much to make them any happier. What's your take on the issue?"

If I have any uber-rich readers out there, do you think you are happier than your less moneyed friends and relatives? Certainly plenty of folks think having more money would solve a lot of their problems. But does it make you happy and truly satisfied with life? Sometimes the only that can bring that is a good pillow fight. Just kidding (sorta).

Get an extra 20% off at the Children's Place with this printable coupon. If you shop online use coupon code %20CLUBEAGML98A7. Expires Halloween. Shipping is $5. Find a store near you.

Road Runner Sports is having a big sale on running shoes and apparrel. These men's Addidas Supernova Control 9 sneaks are $70 (orig $90). Don't fall for the VIP prices, though. You have to pay $40 to join the VIP club, so unless you buy an awful lot of tennies it probably does not make sense. Plenty of women's apparel and running shoes on sale too. Sale ends Oct 29, 2007.

The home improvement store Lowe's is giving a $10 gift card (good towards any purchase of $25 or more) when you sign up on their site. Requires name, address, dob, ph number, and email, but opting in for news of their sales is optional and you can always fudge some of the other numbers. I use my work address so junk mail doesn't drown me at home. Find a Lowe's near you.

Urban Outfitters is having an online sale with everything already marked down is an additional 15% off thru Sun, Oct 28. A lot of really cute dresses, cotton tops, T-shirts, and nighties and bras are marked down. I haven't shopped at Urban Outfitters in a long time, but now I'm reminded how girly and fun their clothes are. Men's clothes are on sale too.

I like this black Kimono dress with a attention-getting white belt for $34 (orig $58). This black and white Houndstooth tank is $13 (orig $25) and is perfect for going out for a drink. I also love this Little Miss Sunshine T-shirt (large only) for $17 (orig $28). The 15% off discount does not show up until you put something in the cart.

The United Colors of Benetton at the Westfield Topanga mall in Canoga Park is going out of business and everything is 30% off. A few items at the back right of the store are 50% off, including a beautiful refined wool coat in grey for $130 (orig $260). Very stylish with a belt and smooth lines. An Armani lookalike, the saleswoman said. I couldn't resist two chenile knit scarves, one in red hues for my sister and another in light blue hues for a good friend, for $27 each (orig $39).

They are in the corridor on the western most side of the mall that runs north south, across from the old Crate and Barrel store. Park near Sears. The Topanga mall is at 6600 Topanga Canyon Blvd.

Under G's Lingerie is having a sale on bras, slinky sleepwear, and kids clothes, which they also sell (interesting combo). Much of the store is 30% to 50% off until tomorrow. A white nighty with red and pink hearts was $33, a green terry dress for a lil tot was $41, and a black bra with red polka dots was $53. A ton of kids clothes are 50% off. For lingerie they carry Cosabella, Elle MacPherson, Le Mystere, Ritratti, Woldford, and Lise Charmel.

Visit them at the Westfield Topanga mall, 6600 Topanga Canyon. They are right next to Nordstrom's kind of hidden behind the escalator. (818) 716-1218. They also have a store in Beverly Hills at 417-419 Bedford Dr, but I don't know if the sale is also happening there. (310) 273-9333.

Buy.com has Kensington noise canceling headphones for $17.34 after a $10 mail-in rebate. Free shipping! That's much below the $60 list price. These won't last so don't delay if you are interested. They are $35 at Target and $30 at Amazon.

Reviews are very positive.

The North Holly wood resale boutique Lucky You is having a 40% off sale this Thursday from 5 to 9 only. There will also be wine and treats, according to BargainsLA. The store sells used clothes with many name brands, I'm told.

Visit them at 12441 Magnolia Blvd., North Hollywood, CA. (818) 985-1115.

UPDATE: this coupon has expired, unfortunately.

When 20% off just isn't good enough at Linens -n- Things, get 25% off with coupon code FFOCT07. It's good on online purchases until Nov 28, 2007. Normally competitor Bed Bath and Beyond will accept LNT coupons, but since this is an online code I doubt it will work. This Calphalon turkey roasting pan is $30 (orig $40), and DOES NOT come with a lid (the chili pot does, though) and is non stick for easy cleaning. After the coupon it's $22.50.

Get 25% off at Borders with this printable coupon, good thru Oct. 28, 2007. You have to be a member of Borders Rewards, which is free to join. Gotta join in Borders or Waldenbooks stores, not online. Perhaps you will join and use the coupon to buy Steve Martin's new children's book "The Alphabet From A to Y, With Bonus Letter Z," illustrated by New Yorker cartoonist Roz Chast. The story behind Martin's book is here.

Find a store near you.

Caveats: Not good on online purchases, gift cards, periodicals, comics, non-stock special orders, all electronics, including the Sony® Reader and the Zune™, Rosetta Stone®, coupon books, digital downloads, eBooks, and shipping.

DSW is having a big boot sale, with some up to 50% off. Unclear how long the sale lasts. Their Web site sucks - it doesn't allow you to look at the shoes they have in stores or shop online. You'll just have to go in person. FInd a store near you.

The AMS Warehouse in Santa Clarita is liquidating Disney merchandize from Disneyland. Prices are up to 80% off retail, I'm told. They have adult and children's apparel, toys, trading pins, watches and collectibles. Get an extra 10% with an ad in The Signal. Sale ends Nov 11, 2007. They were closed Mon and Tue because of the fire but are open today.

Visit them at 18533 Soledad Canyon Road in the Canyon Square Plaza behind Kindercare. Open Mon thru Sat from 10 to 8 and Sun from 11 to 6. (661) 424-0046. Thanks Janet!

UPDATE: A reader visited the sale and said they take cash and credit cards only, no checks. And they play Yo Ho music from Pirates of the Caribbean to get you in the Disney mood!

Getting your iPod engraved is a little silly. It's not a fancy watch that you'll pass down to your kids, afterall. But it is free and it could help recover stolen iPods in certain scenarios (like if it gets stolen from your locker and the next day someone happens to be using it during English class). Plus, engraving could be a fun way to personalize a gift with a joke or heartfelt message. Okay, now I'm sold.

Engraving is free only when you buy online and is part of the checkout process. Messages are limited to two lines of 29 characters each on the iPod classic, iPod touch, and iPod nano. On iPod shuffle you can get one line of 38 characters. More info here.

Starting today thru the weekend all Lady Footlocker stores are having a big 2 for $79 shoe sale. Many of the fashion tennies, converse hi and lowtops and a few running shoes (orig $50 to $80) are part of the sale. Others are 2 for $89. Zip up hoodie sweatshirts are 2 for $30 (orig $30 to $40). If you are shopping online use code IP2374X8 for free shippping (no minumum). No end date for the free shipping code given. Shop their online outlet for already discounted prices.

Find a store near you.

Get 10% off one item at Barnes and Noble stores with this printable coupon or shop online and use code V3V9C6W. Expires Nov 3, 2007. Sounds like you can use it on coffee and mags. I'm set!

Caveats: not good on textbooks, at B&N College stores, gift cards, gift wrapping, and a few other things.

Find a store near you.

The Westfield Topanga mall in Canoga Park just introduced a VIP savings pass, which you can get on the counter of the Concierge Desk on the ground level near The Farm of Beverly Hills restaurant. The pass gives you a bunch of savings on retailers and restaurants, including:
$5 off any $30 purchase at The Body Shop or GNC
20% off at Global Feet and Planet Beauty
10% off at Just Paws Pets, Joli Bebe and Sanrio (except gift cards)
10% off any $50 purchase at Lady Foot Locker
10% off any $70 purchase at Napolean Perdis
$10 off any bra at Soma with complimentary bra fitting
$15 off regular priced merch at Steve Madden
$250 off a purchase of $1,000 or more at Torneau

Plus these food discounts:
20% off entire food purchase at California Pizza Kitchen and New York Deli.

15% off entire food purchase at Bistro Ka, all Cinnabon products (is that different than the food?), Gyu-Kaku, or 15% off any item at St. Marc Café.

10% off entire food purchase at Amaranta Cocina Mexicana, Auntie Anne’s, Currito, Burritos Without Borders, Gulen’s Mediterranean, and Tommie’s Hamburgers.

And a few more food deals:
10% off bill of free brownie sundae at The Farm of Beverly Hills, 10% off any item at Haagen Dazs or Nestle Tollhouse, 10% off on regular and large smoothies at Robek's Juice, and at Hot Dog on a Stick buy 2 items, get another item free.

Call the Concierge at 818-594-8740. Expires Dec 31, 2007.

Save 50% off the cost of making digital copies of old family photographs or important documents until the end of the year when you mention today's story about Epoch Archiving in Chatsworth. The story goes "Running around collecting old family photographs and important documents while fires threaten your home is not the quickest way to evacuate, nor the safest. But it's common because not many people want to leave their wedding pictures, the title to their home, or other sentimental mementos behind. Now, there's a way to avoid putting yourself in danger while preserving that sepia-toned snapshot of your grandma when she was 3..." Read the rest of the story here. Visit Epoch's Web site or call them at 818-885-1959.

The Sherman Oaks Galleria is having a Halloween-themed blood drive this Thursday Oct 25 between 10 and 4. You can make an appointment or just show up. Everybody who donates get a free T-shirt.

Visit them at Ventura and Sepulveda. Parking directions here.

eBags has a couple of sales but the best seems to be a 20% off coupon with coupon code EM72HOUR, which expires Oct 24, 2007. (Otherwise you get 10% off and free shipping thru Oct 31, 2007 but you can't combine them.)
I like this Army surplus-inspired sidebag with aqua crystals by Kenta Designs for $141.40 (orig $160).

Shop all their " girl bags and business bags.

You also get a $25 gift card for eBags when you spend $100 or more between now and Dec 2, 2007. The certificate expires Dec 13, 2007.

Southwest is advertising low fares around Christmas. One way fares out of Burbank will cost you:
$59 to/from Oakland, $49 to/from Phoenix, $59 to/from Sacramento, $59 to/from San Jose, and $99 to/from Seattle/Tacoma. Or find a low fare from your the airport of your choice.

Caveats: Buy your ticket by Oct 29, 2007 and fly between Dec 20, 2007 and Jan 6, 2008.

A few USC fans bristled when I posted sales on UCLA gear but neglected to share Trojan sales. So without further ado, here are a few.

CollegeGear.com has T-shirts from $13 to $45. I like this blazing red T-shirt with a silhouette of a Trojan with the chant "FIGHT ON!" I also like it because it's only $13. Sweatshirts are $32 to $71 with many options in the $35 to $56 range. Hats and visors are $16 to $30. Overall they have a good range of prices but you will have to watch the pricetags if you want to keep your tab down.

Football Fanatics has four sale T-shirts from $10 to $20 and regular T-shirts from $11 to $30 but plenty under $15. Sweatshirts are $23 to $60 with a number of options under $40. Hats, visors and beanies are $10 to $30. I like this white beanie with small logos, for $10.

SportsFanOutlet has a very limited selection. It's prices on men's T-shirts are competitive ($10 to $13) and but high prices on sweatshirts ($50 to $55). Two of each to choose from. Hats are $10 to $16.

At the USC bookstore T-shirts are $17 to $30. Hats are $16 to $24. Sweatshirts are $33 to $65.

Overall your best bet is Football Fanatics. Happy fandom!

Get a free bag of Halloween candy at Kmart when you bring in this printable coupon to one of their stores. Good for a variety of candy in "snack" or "fun" size (normally priced $2.79). My pick is Butterfinger, Snickers, or 100 Grand, but there are many others. Read the fine print here.
Find a Kmart near you. Expires on Halloween.

Who has time to make photo albums anymore? I haven't even gotten my wedding pictures develolped. But with MyPublisher.com, they put it together for you. If it sounds dorky, my Aunt has actually made some really good photo albums using this kind of thing. Now you can get a free photobook when you give them your email and get 20% off orders of $50 and up with code FALL2040. Same code gets you 40% off of orders of $100 and up. Expires Nov 7, 2007. See their Web site for details.

Unfortunately, my problems sending out email are continuing so some of you may not receive the Daily Digest today, tomorrow, or until Gmail unlocks my account. My bargain hunter daily digest list is big enough Gmail thinks I'm a spammer. Lame! In the meantime, please read the blog the old fashioned way. ~Julia

Halloween costumes are half-off at Kmart, and many have already been discounted. A Zombie doctor costume is $9 (orig $30) and a traditional Spiderman costume is also $9 (orig $30). Free shipping, too! Sale ends Oct 27, 2007.

Get a $100 back when you buy a Dyson upright or canister vacuum from Sears now thru Oct 27, 2007. Clearance, closeouts and a few other vacuums are excluded. If a vacuum is eligible it will have a "Rebate Details" link directly underneath the item. Must submit a copy of your recipt to get the rebate. The DC21 Stowaway is $400 after the rebate.

Old Navy is having a big fall sale with ladies tops from $4 to $10, shorts and capris from $4 to $20, jewelry and accessories from $2 to $17. I like these chunky red earrings for $3 (orig $6). Also, dog collars from $3 (orig $6.50). Search men's bargain here, maternity bargains here, girls sale stuff here, and boys sale items here. Unclear how long sale lasts. Shipping is $5.

Get two sweaters or hoodies for $15 each plus $6 shipping at Aeropostale, not including those on clearance. Use coupon code SWEATER. This gray hoodie with pink, red, and white hearts is awfully cute (orig $49.50). Browse the women's sweaters (orig $17 to $50) or the men's sweaters (orig $17 to $22). According to SlickDeals, the discount is shown in cart as "Lunch special" after applying the coupon. If it does not work, clear your browser cookies and try again.

A new makeup store/beauty salon called Ziba Beauty recently opened at Westfield Topanga in Canoga Park and they have a special deal just for Bargain Hunter readers! Ziba specializes in Indian and Eastern techniques, like Mehndi (think henna tattoos with glitter and crystals) and eyebrow threading, which removes hair by rolling cotton threads over them. No idea how painful it is but sounds quick, if that's any consolation. Bring in this Thursday's column for a free eyebrow threading (normally $9 and up). Good thru Sun, Nov 4th only at the Topanga store. They are also giving free Henna tattoos on Halloween from 5 to 9pm.

Read about all their services here, and their threading prices here.

Parents can find discounted baby and kids gear at a consignment sale at the Ventura County Fairgrounds this weekend, Oct 26-28. An organizer says the "families can sell, buy, and donate gently-used children's merchandise and pick up great bargains on new items they need." About 80 families are selling their stuff, so it should be pretty big. Hours are Fri and Sat from 9 to 6, and a half-priced sale Sun from 9 to 2. For more details visit the sale's Web site here.

Parking is $5, or you can pay $2 and park across the street at the 'Surfer's Lot.' Visit the fair at Nicolas Hall, 10 West Harbor Blvd., Ventura.

Is my fascination with shoes getting out of line? I do poke my head into every shoe store I pass and shoes are one thing I'm willing to pay top dollar for. But I don't see what's wrong with looking.
At shoes.com there is plenty to gawk at. Under their clearance and sales page I found these strappy, yet sensible Naturalizer pair in tan, red, or black for $29, (orig $59). I also like this Kenneth Cole black suede mocassin for $70 (orig $140). And get a load of this svelte black heel with a stylish cream bow from Cynthia Rowley, for $115 (orig $230). You can kick some booty in that shoe, especially if you're also wearing a fitted black skirt. Okay, I've got to stop now. There's just too many fabulous shoes to look at.

Fellow savvy spenders,
There will be no bargain hunter daily digest today. Unfortunately, the forces that be have me in an e-mail lockdown, one that feels as constricting as it sounds. Let me out! So no outgoing email for the foreseeable future! (Really just 72 hours.) To The Man in Charge I say grrrrrrr with a few #!*&@ thrown in for good measure.

In the meantime, please read the blog the old fashioned way. Thank you for your patience. ~Julia

Woot.com has a portable black speaker to plug your MP3 player into that is about the size of a dollar bill. It's $13 plus $5 shipping. Could be a neat gift for a techie teen who wants to blast his preferred choice of music pretty much anywhere. If you are interested don't wait to buy this Saitek A100 MySpkr because Woot is only selling it until midnight, when they debut another product.

The reviews are positive, both for quality and price.

Dell is having its annual fall sale, with markdowns up to 25%. Check out the deals: flat screen monitors are up to 15% off, all-in-one printers start at $49, all vehicle GPS devices are 20% off, free shipping on sale items when you tab is $129 or more.

Those of you read my mini-guide to buying a cheap computer last week, will remember that getting the best price on computers is done by combining Dell coupons with their sales. So now is the time to act! A good way to get Dell coupons is to sign up on their Web site for their mailing list or by checking deal sites like SlickDeals.

Browse the Dell sale here. Unclear how long the sale lasts or if it is online only or also in stores.

Addidas is having a 10% off sale on their training apparrel only. This adi Jacket, perfect for warming up, cooling down, or staying toasty in cooler temps, is $65 (orig $58). Search all their women's training gear and the men's training apparel. Not sure if the sale is happening in stores. Discount should automatically be taken during online checkout, or you can use coupon code AFFTR8N.

Use this printable coupon to get $5 off a Polly Pocket doll. May not be good at every single store that sells PP because it's a manufacturer's coupon. True, these are some of the same toys that were recalled for having tiny magnets that kids could swallow, but Mattel is a massive company that would be stupid to make the same mistake twice. Read about their safety procedures and reaction to the recalls. On the other hand, maybe the fact that they are giving these dolls away practically for free (Polly Pockets cost about $5) is a sign that they blew it so badly nobody wants to give them a second chance.

Coupon good thru Dec. 31. Stocking stuffers?

Until Oct 25, get 20% off at Bloomingdale's online or thru the mail (not good in the store). The coupon applies to handbags, shoes, jewelry, plus clothes for women, men and kids. Egads! I think I'm going to play hookey so I can shop, not to give you any ideas or anything. There are many exclusions, listed below, but I have to give Bloomingdale's credit. Items that are on sale, like these Ugg short boots with tie for $120, are marked as such. Use coupon code OCT20 when checking out. Find a Bloomies near you.

Caveats: Excludes Electronic Gift Cards, Beauty, Home (including all furniture and mattresses), and the following brands: Anlo, Baccarat, Badgley Mischka, Botkier, Bulga, Burberry, Celine, Chanel Sunglasses, Christofle, Cinzia Rocca, Citizens of Humanity, Coach Shoes & Sunglasses, Diane Von Furstenberg, Dior Sunglasses, Elie Tahari, Faberge, Fendi Sunglasses & Watches, Foley and Corinna, Gucci Sunglasses, Gustto, Hilary Radley, Isabella Fiore Handbags & Shoes, James Jeans, Joe's Jeans, Juicy Couture, Kate Spade, Kooba, Lalique, Lambertson Truex, Limoges, Little Marc, Longchamp, M Missoni, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Marc Jacobs, Marc Men's, MCM, Michael Kors Collection, Michele Watches, Moschino, Mulberry, Nanette Lepore, Paige Premium Denim, Polo, Ray-Ban Sunglasses, Rebecca Minkoff, Rich and Skinny, Seven for all Mankind, St. John Sport, The North Face, Theory, Tom Ford Sunglasses, Tory Burch, Toy Watch watches, True Religion, Twisted Heart, Versace Sunglasses, Vince, Waterford, Zac Posen

Saw a blue Prius in Claremont with these plates: CLNAYRE. Get it? If not look for the answer below the picture.

ANSWER: clean air

Came across these coupons in the current issue (Nov) of Real Simple:

15% off your entire purchase at Eddie Bauer plus free shipping thru Nov 15, 2007. In stores bring in a coupon from the mag, online enter coupon code RSNOV07 (first is an "oh" second is a zero). On the phone mention code J294. 800-426-8020.

Get $20 off an order of $75 or more at Chico's (roughly 26% off), plus get free basic shipping thru Nov. 30, 2007. 888-855-4986. Bring in the coupon for in-store shopping, use code 5923 online or over the phone. 888-855-4986.

Get $25 off a purchase of $100 or more at Coldwater Creek (a 25% discount) thru Dec. 23, 2007. Use coupon code PLA9358 when shopping online and over the phone. Not clear is you need the coupon card for in-store shopping or if they will just take the code. Call ahead to make sure. 800-262-0040. UPDATE: Get 50% off your order at CC thru Oct 25, 2007 with coupon code 50PERCENT, according to the Bargainist.

Get $125 off a purchase of $125 or more (a 20% discount) at White House Black Market, plus get free shipping. Expires Dec 1, 2007. Need coupon for in-store discount, online or over the phone use free shipping code 8474 and $25 off code 8459. 877-948-2525.

If you don't get the mag, what's to stop you from browsing one at your local bookstore? Who knows, maybe you will find a coupon. Somebody's gotta!

A new study says high-priced running shoes aren't really worth it because they don't protect your feet more than less-expensive pairs, according to story in HealthDay. The best way to get a top notch shoe it focus on what fits your foot best. The story goes: "Using high-tech methods, a team of Scottish scientists found no differences in either comfort or shock absorption between $80 pairs of running shoes and pairs made by the same companies costing more than $150.

"My advice to runners is to make sure that, first, the footwear fits your feet, and that if you are paying more, that doesn't mean that you're getting something better," said lead researcher Rami Abboud, director of the Institute of Motion Analysis and Research at the University of Dundee.

Of course, shock absorption and comfort are not the only factors. You've got to consider arch support, size of the toe box, and for super focused runners, weight. When I need a good shoe I go to Phidippidies in Encino, which is about $10 more a pair than most other stores. But you get a trained salesperson who looks at your foot, asks you how much you run, and then recommends a few pairs. You can run on them in the parking lot to test them out and they have a decent return policy.

Visit them at 16545 Ventura Blvd in Encino. (818) 986-8686.

(not my actual lunch) A friend recommended I stop by Saigon's Bakery and Sandwiches in San Gabriel to break up my long drive to Claremont. The street addresses were so confusing I had given up hope when, of course, it appeared before me. And there was parking. Score. But would the food hold up?

The small shop had pictures of all their sandwiches next to the price, just like at a Chinese takeout dive. But the store was clean, brightly lit, and had a few tables if you want to sit and munch. I ordered a grilled pork sandwich and an iced milk coffee, plus a bagette to go. My total: $4.50. Nope, that's not a typo. My sandwich, served on a foot-long skinny baguette with long slices of onion, carrots, cilantro and a mild chili pepperwas $2. I would have paid double. It was tasty, the flavors well balanced, and a decent sized meal. The bread is crunchy on the outside and ever so soft on the inside. Delish. The coffee, at $1.75, was actually a shot of expresso mixed with instant milk and doused with ice. Tasted so rich and sweet I wondered if there was chocolate in it. The drink kept me up until the wee hours of the night (I usually drink decaf) but make no mistake, I would totally drink one of these again. The loaf of break I saved the bread and had the next day for breakfast, toasted with jam. Again, simple but delicious. I'm not the only one who liked it. Read other reviews here.

Visit them at 718 E. Valley Blvd in San Gabriel. (626) 288-6475. The bakery is on the sw corner of San Gabriel Blvd and Valley, tucked behind the corner building. Exit 25B off the 10, then drive north on San Gabe Blvd, left at Valley.

Costumes at the Spirit Halloween Superstore are 20% off until Oct. 31, 2007 and ground shipping seems to be free. Use code society to get the discount. You have to put in all your billing info and credit card info before applying the discount, but it worked for me. How about this black, white and aqua pixie costume for $40 (orig $50). Or a matching pair of tacky tourists? Each is $30. Does not come with silly glasses, a lei, or oversized hat, but surely you have those around the house. For each costume the site suggests a few add-ons, like glitter gel or special shoes. Annoying if you are easily tempted, but really handy if you do want those accessories. Here's a link to the coupon if you want to read the fine print.

Get 20% off at Borders Books with this printable coupon. Expires Oct. 24, 2007. Looks like it will also work at Waldenbooks, part of the chain. Find a store near you.

Caveats: excludes magazines, coffee, comics, electronics, and a bunch of other stuff. They really just want you to buy a book. Read the fine print here.

Get a free 24-pack of Crayola Crayons or a 4-pack of Playdoh with this printable coupon good at Toys R Us Oct 18 and 19 only. You can only print it once so don't open it until you are ready. I accidentally closed mine before printing and it won't let me open it again! If the link above doesn't work, get the coupon from their homepage. It scrolls through three windows but soon the free coupon will come up.

Find a Toys 'r Us near you.

Lighting Direct is having a sale on compact florescent light bulbs, which are slightly more pricey than regular bulbs but last much, much longer and don't suck up as much electricity. Overall they save you money, even if the upfront cost is greater. Use coupon code BULB33 when checking out. This 60-watt equivalent bulb is $5 before the discount, but I've seen them for as much as $10 in stores. Not a huge stock left, so don't delay. A 75-watt equivalent is $5.55 and a 100-watt equivalent is $6.75, both before the discount.

Caveats: sale applies to Feit brand Energy Star CFL bulbs.

Expires Oct 31, 2007.

Eastern Mountain Sports has no stores within a thousand miles of Southern California, but their sale is still accessible because it is also on their Web site. Gear is up to 20% off now thru Oct. 21. If you spend $100, get a $25 gift card good in their store. I like this 3-season sleeping bag that keeps you toasty to 25-degrees for $87 (orig $109). Long size is a few bucks more. These Keen boatshoes also caught my eye (not like you have to be on a boat to wear them). They look super comfy, are made of stretchy neoprene, and are $20 (orig $35)! Ah, herein lies the rub: size 5 only, in green. Doh!

Also check out their pedometers and running watches, their Keen footware, North Face men's gear and women's gear.

Buy online or over the phone at 888-463-6367. Hours are extended during the sale, from 7 am to 12 midnight Oct 18 to 20, and from 7 am to 3 am Oct 21. Read their generous return policy here (basically you can return anything you are "unsatisfied" with.)

Sales caveats: Excludes Merrell, Patagonia, UGG footwear, ski boots or Icelantic® skis, repurchase of returned merchandise, product rentals, or gift cards. Caveats on the $25 gift card: gotta use it Oct. 22 thru Nov 8, 2007 and spend $50 or more.

Posts will be a bit light today because I am running around Monrovia and Claremont for a story. Below are a few tidbits, but please check back tomorrow for lots more good deals! Thanks, Julia

You won't have to go anywhere to enjoy the gorgeous fall foliage when you look at reader photos submitted to MSNBC as part of their Autum in America spread. Looking at these pics you can almost smell the crisp air and hear kids jumping through leaves. If you'd like to submit your best pics, go here.

A reader named Marsha wrote in about steep savings at a restaurant where I recently found a Lincoln Lunch: "Julia - My girlfriend and I went to Follow Your Heart for lunch with our coupon from the Entertainment Book. We each had a dinner entree (spanacopita with rice, salad or soup) and took half of it to go because of the large portion. It cost each of us $7+ change plus the tip." Before the $9 off coupon the tab was $26, including tax. That's savings of about 30%!

Marsha happens to be selling the coupon books, good thru Nov 2008, for $20. It is a charitable contribution because proceeds benefit the USC Norris Cancer Center, Marsha said. Email Marsha at prideofla@sbcglobal.net if you are interested. The books have coupons for restaurants, movies, retailers, and more. You can buy them directly from Entertainment Book for $25 plus $1 shipping.

What the heck is Spanakopita?

Circuit City has a good price on a DVD/DivX player by Philips. It's $37 and does not come with a tuner but that shouldn't be a problem if you already have one thru your TV. The same DVD player is $42 at Best Buy but is on backorder.

Get 20% off your online purchase at Lane Byrant with coupon code 000209168. For one-time purchase only (though I wonder if they can really track that). Expires Jan 10, 2008! They are already having a 40% off sale on new fall clothes.

Caveats: Good only online. Not good on permanently reduced, clearance or Perfect Price Every Day items, or these brands: Baby Phat, Wacoal, Natori, Bali, Goddess, Fantasie, Bravado, Lunaire, Le Mystère, Glamorise or Spanx. Read all the fine print here.

At the Nick Shop Halloween costumes are 20% off. A kids Spongebob Squarepants costume is $20 (orig $25). A Diego costume is $20 (orig $25) and Dora costumes are between $20 and $43 (orig $25 to $40). Even the lowest priced one comes with a black yarn wig. How fun!

Unclear how long sale lasts. Discount taken after you add an item to your shopping cart.

If you're not familiar with It's A Wrap! it may be time to get to know the used clothing store. It's stocked with clothes worn in Paramount films from the 1920's, 1930's, 1940's, 1950's and 1960's. The sale is only at their Westside store, not their Burbank ones. Start Thur Oct 18 and ends Halloween. Many of the prices have been permanently reduced up to 35% and most Halloween costumes are half off.

Visit them at 1164 S. Robertson Blvd. (Between Pico and Olympic). Open Mon. - Fri. 10 to 8, Sat and Sun 11 to 6.

Discount Tire Direct is taking $100 off the price of 4 tires or 4 wheels when you buy them online. Don't wait, expires Oct 20, 2007. The discount will automatically be taken from the total in your shopping cart.

Yossi's Salon in Woodland Hills had so much success with earlier coupons I posted on this blog that he is offering a new deal for Bargain Hunter readers: free 6-foil highlights and a clear cellophane treatment. Now, 6 foils are not enough to do your whole head, but enough to frame your face with a few wisps of color. The clear cellophane treatment is new and it helps seal the color and makes the highlights shiny but not frizzy, Yossi said. He is offering the freebie between Oct 17 and Oct 31, 2007 to attract more customers. Not bad if you want to do a "test run" before plopping down major dollars to highlight your whole noggin.

Visit them at 5349 Topanga Canyon Blvd. in Woodland Hills. (818) 825-3467. Tell Yossi you read it on the Bargain Hunter!

Get 20$ off of JCrew purchases of $175 or more (which isn't so hard these days - are their prices going up or are they just higher-end?) until Oct 17, 2007. So don't wait if you love JCrew! Use coupon code PSALE07 when checking out. I like these spotted cat-print moccasins for $165 (orig $235) and this low-cut polka dot cotton blouse for $78 (shipping in a few weeks).

Caveats: good on regularly priced merchandise only, though it did work for the discounted moccasins. Hmmmm.

Got the Pottery Barn holiday catalogue in the mail yesterday and immediately flipped to the back to see if they any sales. Indeed! An Asian-inspired lacquered cabinet is $400 (orig $700) and comes in brown, brick red, or a woody yellow. Shipping is $75. Red-striped home office sorters and boxes are $7 to $10 (orig $12 to $19). This glass wall vase is $13 (orig $40) and for some reason the price for a set of two is more than double the single price. Silly!

Most of the sales are online only. Check out their sale items here and their clearance items here. Find a store near you (though sale items vary widely from store to store). Unclear how long the sale lasts.

A funny story in the paper today, or sad depending on your sense of humor. More people want a computer for Christmas than peace and happiness, according to the Consumer Electronics Association. (Not that they're biased, or anything.) I'm sure you and I will take the high road - all we *really* want is a slip of paper saying a contribution to our favorite charity has been made, right? I hope everyone else will find this mini-guide to buying a cheap computer useful.

My techie husband, who has purchased many hardworking, capable computers for me, recommends looking at Dell computers for a good deal. Sign up for their email coupons by creating an account, but check deal Web sites for their best discounts. SlickDeals and Buy.com's Hot Deals are a good places to start. Pounce when you can combine a coupon with a sale. "If it's on sale and you have a 20% off coupon, buy two and maybe you can sell one," hubby says. Don't wait when you see a sale and have a 15% off coupon.

Finding a good price may be the easy part. Who know how much processing power or memory to buy? If all you do is toot around on the Internet, check email, and use Word and Excel occasionally, a low-end computer will probably be fine. (These days low-end machines come with a Pentium 4 processing chip that have a speed of 3 gigahertz.) Folks who want to play games will require higher-end computers, but I'm guessing they are more in touch with their inner-geek and know what they need.

Arstechnica.com has a cool guide to figuring out what type of computer you need. They divide the world into three categories: those who need a budget box (under $800), those who want a hot rod (usually under $1,600), and lastly, the wacks who sell the farm for a God box ($$$$$$). Every component is listed separately but is useful for setting parameters.

Forgive this brief self-promotion: I now email a daily digest of all the day's blog posts, so you don't have to visit the Web site or wait for Thursday's column. Just send me your email and I will add it to the list. It's much better than getting spam and it's free, though some readers have asked what I charge, contributing to the over-inflation of my ego! The digest may even help you save a buck or three.

Today is the last day to use a buy one get one free coupon at Jamba Juice. I used one last night and found it quite satisfying. The Heart Defender (main flave is pomegranate) is delish! I didn't even have to surrender my coupon (but you do need to show one), which means I may be able to sneak in another today.

Print the coupon here. Find a store near you. Expires at the end of day, Oct 16, 2007.

It's that time of year when you start sniffling and snuffling and itching and coughing. Time to get a flu shot. If your internal clock has not already told you so here is a reminder: GET A FLU SHOT! I *really* don't want to catch your germs when you decide you are healthy enough to come to work and sneeze on me.

To nip those but, but, buts in the bud, I've found you a few places to get a flu shot at a decent price. The cost can actually vary greatly. At my doctor's office it is $28 plus my $15 co-pay. Yikes! I'm definitely not going there.

Calling around the lowest price is at Sam's Club, which is having a three-day promotion Oct 18 to Oct 20 where they are giving flu shots for $20, no membership necessary. Find a location near you that is participating in the promotion. Sadly, the San Fernando and Santa Clarita locations are not coming up as participating, but Palmdale, Glendora and Oxnard are. If you do go, the hours are Thur, Oct 18 and Fri, Oct 19 from 11 to 2, and Sat Oct 20 from 11 to 4.

CVS has flu shots at various pharmacies around town with varying age requirements so check ahead. Or you can call (800) 746-7287 to find one near you. They charge $30 each or your insurance copay, where applicable. Not sure what that means but sounds like if they don't take your insurance you pay $30. No appointment necessary. Read the details online.

Rite Aid has flu shots for $30 today, Oct. 16, Wed, Oct. 17 or Thur, Oct. 18. Each day between 2 and 6 pm. Pneumonia shots are $40. Find a Rite Aid clinic near you.

Longs Drugs has already started their flu shots and will have them thru mid-November. They are $30 each or $40 for a pneumonia shot. Find a location near you or call 1-800-TO-LONGS. When I searched a Valley zip code, none came up near me. Hmmm, maybe they don't have any clinics up here.

To find a Walgreen's near you that is offering flu shots go here. Looks like they do it about once a month and may require appointments. Call ahead of time. Shots are $25 to $30.

Lots of useful info about who should and should not get a flu shot, possible side effects, and more on the Center for Disease Control site.

Materials Matter, a non-profit home improvement store in Corona, has basement bargain prices, according to a recent report on Channel 11. The goods are new or gently used. A 10-foot new Corian countertop was $195, granite countertops started at $159 (many looked pre-cut, however), and vessel sinks started at $159.

All proceeds go to an affordable housing program or other non-profit ventures, the report said. Materials Matter is open seven days a week from 9 to 5. Visit them at 1655 w 6th St #109 in Corona. (951) 256-4110.

Stopped by a local Big Lots this afternoon and was reminded that some of their prices are fantastic while others are on par with other retailers.

Among the good deals: a wood Labyrinth marble puzzle was $9 (goes for $17 at the Science eStore). A round hanging basket with a fiberous liner was $4 (at Home Depot they are $19), and a Hannah Montana electric guitar was $20 (a similar toy is $30 at Toy 'r Us).

Among the so-so deals: the iFish, which plays music on your MP3 player using built-in speakers was $20, just as much as it is on Amazon.com. A mocha fake suede chaise was $300 but it already had a few stains on it and it was so squishy I wonder if the pillows will wear out quickly.

In short, be especially careful about quality when you shop at Big Lots, but keep it in mind for certain items and ago in with a firm grip on your pocketbook (meaning don't fall into a spending free fall)!

Find a store near you.

Oh no, two weeks is not enough. With this coupon code you will get a four-week free trial when you choose to get 4 DVDs at a time at Netflix, according to Fat Wallet. But fill out the signup form slowly. I blew through it and missed the box where you enter coupon code 80004745, then it would not let me go back. Look for the coupon code box above where you enter your email. Also, make sure to select 4 DVDs at a time. It automatically comes up as 3 at a time. Unclear how long this deal lasts.

UPDATE: A reader emailed to say that the code has expired, but that he called customer service and was able to get the 4-week free trial using his most persuasive voice ever.

Thought I would post this wine sale on Woot Wine as a lark. Three bottles of Armida Winery Poizin are selling for $53 plus $5 shipping, and while I have no idea how good this vino is (or how bad), it would make a great spooky accessory for your Halloween bash. Reader comments about the wine here. These bottles are on sale until Oct. 17, 2007.

Harbor Freight has a bunch of coupons on low-budget tools and household items. A roll of electrical tape is 39-cents (orig 69-cents), a 29-piece Titanium nitride coated drill bit set is $10 (orig $20), a pencil tire guage is 49-cents (orig $1.50). ANd that's just the tip of the iceberg. Even more printable coupons here. Note, these are printable coupons for in-store purchases. If you are big time into tools, I would suggest signing up for their email list on the homepage because they send coupons via email.

Coupons expire Oct 20, 2007. Find a store near you.

Grabbed a meal for a fiver (ya know, the bill with Lincoln on it) in Canoga Park at Follow Your Heart restaurant, a poorly named but very tasty place. The food is vegetarian with many vegan options. But don't let the lack of dead animals on the menu scare you away. The food is hearty, well-spiced, and makes you feel good. I like their chili, though a few of the beans were a tad more al dente than I would have liked. A cup is $3.50 and a bowl is $4.95 and comes with crackers or a roll. A half-salad is also nearly a LL, at $5.50. If you want to splurge, go for a mocha milkshake (dairy or non-dairy), which easily feeds two, for $3.75.

If you visit, the restaurant is in back of the grocery story on the left. Cozy place. Read the menu here. Find a store that sells their products near you.

Visit them at 21825 Sherman Way in Canoga Park. (818) 348-3240

Until Oct 20, Target is offering free ground shipping when you spend $50 on costumes. Seems like nearly all of the Halloween costumes are eligible for the free shipping, including this cute girls witch costume, complete with broom and pointy hat. Gotta find your own warts. Costs $10 (orig $15). Or this costume to be everyone's favorite sidekick, Robin, of Batman fame.
Strangely, the medium size is $10 and the small is $20.

Search all the boy's costumes, all the girl's costumes, infant costumes, women's costumes, and men's costumes. Don't forget fluffy. Pet costumes here. I think this doggy Bert takes the cake. Doh! Out of stock. Told ya it rocked.

Cost Plus World Market is having their "biggest ever" wine sale with bottles up to 25% off. Is this a counter-move to stop the flow of customers to BevMo's nickle wine sale? Me thinks so. Still, cheap booze is worth scoring. Think of all the upcoming holiday parties to which you will want to bring a bottle to please the host? Plus there is the loveliness of pouring yourself a glass after a stressful day at work. (Nothing builds a habit like a bad job, not that I would know.) The ad temps the thirsty with a $9 Da Vinci Chianti, a $6 Garnacha de Fuego (a spicy wine??), and a $5 Rex Goliath Cabernet Sauvignon. The sale seems to be specific to each store, so the Web site does not seem to list other specific sales unless you enter a zip code. Lame! But you can search here for their best picks, their featured wines and their Italian wines. Sale ends Oct 28, 2007.

Find a store near you.

BagTrends, a Web site run by two stylin' sisters, has a coupon for 10% off its handbags, such as this pink clutch by Rebecca Minkoff, for $115. You can shop all their sale items here. Use coupon code gogrey. Good only online. Expires Oct 25, 2007.

The best way to get discount groceries is by using coupons at the supermarket, right? Not anymore, says an article in the Morning Call newspaper in Allentown, PA (about 60 miles north of Philadelphia). The story says "...everyone can find great drugstore deals if they know how." Do this by buying ahead of need (i.e. stocking up when an item goes on sale), participating in store rewards programs (like Extra Care at CVS), clipping coupons, watching for rebates, and most importantly, stacking all of the above at once to bring the price down to zero or possibly back in your favor.

Because each drugstore has a different policy think about what works for you, the story says. "If you hate mail-in rebates and clipping coupons, CVS is the way to go. If you'll do a lot of shopping for rebated items, Walgreens' 10 percent bonus in-store credit can add up. If you are age 60 or older you qualify for Rite Aid's special discount program, Living More, which gives you 10 percent off on Tuesdays, among other benefits. Details are available at http://www.riteaid.com."

Look for coupons on Nelson's site, the Coupon Mom, which can be difficult to navigate.

A reader emailed me that my earlier blog post about $5 eat-in and $6 take-out pies at Marie Callender's didn't mention that the deal excludes cheesecakes. Pies, cheesecakes. They are practically the same thing in my mind so I thought it was a darn good idea to clarify. The sale does, however, apply to their "cheese pies." Don't ask me how a cheese pie is different than a cheesecake. Hmmm, maybe a taste test is in order. And for the record, the tin is 50-cents. Deal good through Halloween.

See their full menu of pies here. Find a restaurant near you.

Donate $5 at Macy's this Saturday between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. and get a 20% off coupon for regular, sale and clearance items in women's, men's and kids' clothing departments, bed and bath items, housewares, frames, luggage, china, crystal and silver, kitchen and personal care electronics, and technology items. The donation will also get you 10% off of regular, sale and clearance furniture, mattresses and area rugs. Yowza! There are some good deals to be had. Good in stores and online.

Caveats: there are many, so before you get your heart set on something ask a sales rep if the discount applies. Excludes name brands like Kate Spade, Tommy Bahama, Coach, Martha Stewart and Ralph Lauren Furniture, All-Clad, Waterford, St. John, Lacoste, polo/Ralph Lauren, plus designer shoes and handbags, watches, cosmetics, and perfume. Read the fine print for all the details (in today's Daily News p5). Your donation goes to charities like America's Second Harvest, Boys & Girls Clubs, and the Family Violence Prevention Fund.

Find a Macy's near you.

Jasmin Hair Studio in Burbank (no Web site unfortunately) is offering $6 hair cuts for "a few months," according to Mike, who cuts hair at the salon. They don't use students but are offering the cheap cut to beat their competition. It's good for men, women, and kids. You don't have to be a first-time customer. To get the deal, call and make an appointment while mentioning the $6 hair cut. Hope you like your new 'do.

Visit them at 516 S. Glenoaks Blvd. at Santa Anita Ave. in Burbank. (818) 953-9681 or (818) 953-9682. Thanks to the anonymous reader who mailed me a note about this bargain.

A friendly reader emailed me with this fun idea: sharing reader success stories using discounts found on the Bargain Hunter blog. Conveniently for me, she provided the first one! She writes..."I was just thinking how excited I am that I used your 30% off Footlocker.com coupon to get a pair of my favorite running shoes (already sale priced at $70 so got them for $49). Just in time cuz my old pair is worn out. The shoes arrived with a coupon for 20% off a $100 order from Eastbay.com. Eastbay had my favorite running shoes on sale for $49.99 and I bought 2 pairs and saved 20%. Even with the expensive shipping, the shoes came out to $45 per pair! Thus, I got 3 pairs of my favorite running shoes (which are being discontinued; so,
I'm happy to stock up) for $140--not bad considering the regular price is $109 per pair! All thanks to your blog :)"

Thinking about this sweet deal makes me as happy as eating chocolate. Thanks for sharing, Kristin. If you have a good bargain story email me at julia.scott@dailynews.com

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A friend told me about LastMinuteTravel.com, a Web site that aims to be a "one-stop superstore for the time-sensitive, deal-seeking traveler." They make reservations for air tickets, rental cars and hotels. I searched a few airfares and found very reasonable prices for travel dates hours to days in advance.

For instance, if I need to go to Portland, OR next weekend flying out Fri and returning Sun I could buy a fare from LAX starting at $369.61. Not bad considering $300 to $400 is the usual price I pay to fly to Portland, but the times aren't great. With a 6:05 AM departure I'll need to drink regular, not decaf. If I flew today, though, that fare only jumps to $461.60. Not bad at all. I mean, that's actually doable. Most of the time when you search for a flight just hours in advance you are talking four digits, minimum. If you do buy day-of remember to give yourself extra time before your flight. No doubt the TSA will "randomly" select you for extra screening.

Fares to NYC were very decent. I could zip off to the Big Apple later today for $462.60 (JFK) or go next weekend for $314.20 (EWR). Badda-boom badda-bing! You can also search by top destinations, deals ($50/nt at the Boulder Station Hotel in Vegas??), or packages.

A quick pitch for a story I wrote that ran on the front page of today's Daily News. It starts like this:
Imagine a garage sale on steroids. That's what Kristin Nelson has built her twice-yearly kids consignment sale into. Starting today, thousands will flock to her packed warehouse looking for a deal..." Finish reading the story here. Most of the mothers I talked to while reporting the story said they had found great bargains at the LA Kids Consignment Sale and that the quality was fairly high.

Visit the sale at 7963 Van Nuys Blvd. (on the west side of the street with a very small entrance so check the map). Hours Fri and Sat 9 to 5. Sun 9 to 2. Cash only. Free admission and valet parking.

(this picture has nothing to do with Neiman's but it was too funny to pass up)
I'll admit I usually thumb my nose at upper crusty retailers like Neiman Marcus (mostly because I perceive them to be thumbing their nose at me), but the prices at their clearance sale are not entirely scandalous. For instance this Donna Rae scoop neck dress with a high-waist tie is $50 (orig $200). Also comes in a V-neck version. A Dolce & Gabbana white collared shirt and matching skinny jeans with a gold belt are $412 together (orig $1,645, also sold separately).

You get the idea. Discounts of up to 75% really add up, even if the starting price was lofty. Very little merchandise seems to be online. I'm guessing web stuff is just a tease to get you into the store to see more of the clearance sale. Unclear how long the sale lasts, but probably the best stuff will go quick. If you do spend more than $150 online, get free shipping with code NMFALL. Find a location near you.

Caveat: returns must be done within 30 days of purchase.

Amazon.com has those tiny little smiley faces and flowers and froggies that fit right into the holes in your Crocs for 17-cents to $4.59. If I recall correctly, they sell for about $2 a pop at a retail store. If you limit yourself to the ones here for 50-cents or less there is still a good selection. Two green and black palms with the word BUDS are 30-cents for the pair, a palm tree on a tiny island or an American flag are 49-cents, a biblical fish is 17-cents, a red Beetle or a bursting star are 49-cents each, a gift box is 17-cents, a hot pink splotch, a skeleton, or a heart with the banner LOVE are each 49-cents. Last but not least, a smile face American flag is 49-cents. Not the brand name action figures and princesses your children are trained to crave, but still fun stuff. See them all here.

Magazines.com has a $5 off coupon for a short list of magazines that actually includes some good ones. No Montana Fly Fisherman here, folks. (With apologies to those who fly fish in the Big Sky state.) With the coupon get 10 issues of Women's Health for $10 or 10 issues of Everyday Food for $13. Runner's World, which I enjoy reading when I'm not running (so basically, all the time) is $15 for 12 issues. Discount also good on Time, The Economist and Reader's Digest, my childhood source of chilling shark attack tales. They always get bitten..but LIVE!

Use coupon code fall_5off. Coupon good through Nov. 15, 2007.

Vera Wang's new low-budget line Simply Very at Kohl's is 20 to 30% off.
Check out all Vera Wang's threads at Kohl's here. How about this lavender chemise for $25 (orig $34)? Nobody will mind if you sleep in that! Also in black. Or what about a brown hobo purse with a chain strap for $34 (orig $49). Some of the cutest stuff is already sold out online, so who knows how good the selection is in stores. Don't forget all handbags and wallets are 30 to 40% off. And remember, Kohl's charges 99-cents per item for ground shipping. Not too shabby!

Take a peek at their other big sales. Sale lasts to Oct 13, 2007. Find a Kohl's near you.

Staples is appreciating its customers (I mean, more than they usually do) this week, Oct 14 to 20, with a 12% off coupon good on most purchases. Good in-stores only, not online. Click here for the printable coupon. You may save more using this coupon than the free shipping coupon I blogged about Tuesday, which expires Oct 13, 2007.

Caveats: Excludes personal computers, laptops, phone cards, postage stamps, and a few other items.

Having a hard time finding UCLA gear on sale? Tell me about it. Crazy fans buy so much of this stuff the prices are up there! But you don't have to pay full price. After a web search I found at least one place that has gear at relatively reasonable prices.

At the UCLA store prices were top notch, but that's not a good thing when you want a deal. T-shirts were $16 to $22, sweatshirts were $41 to $61, sweats were $32 to $45, and hats were $15 to $22.

At ColleageGear.com, the apparel selection was basically limited to 2007 Final Four stuff. A sweatshirt was $46, a T-shirt was $26, and a hat was $27. Not exactly jaw-dropping prices. A tease for a $36 sweatshirt turned out to be just that.
They do have a basic UCLA sweatshirt in baby blue for $30 (gray is currently sold out). Two UCLA T-s, one blue and the other gray, for $15 each.

eBruin has the best prices I've seen so far. Their sweatshirts are $25 to $45 with a good variety of colors and styles. Most are hooded, though. This dark navy non-hood sweatshirt is $35 and comes in L, XL, or XXL. See all their Bruin sale gear here.

Hometeams has a sale on stuff like license plate borders, mugs, and wastebaskets, all marked with UCLA. Let me know if I've overlooked your fave place to get cheap UCLA gear. And thanks!

My friends have raved about Lucky Brand Jeans but I never shop there because hardly anything goes on sale. Now, I have a reason to stop by. Until Oct 17, 2007 LBJ at the Camarillo Outlets is having a buy one get one 50% off for all apparel (standard practice applies that discount is for cheaper item). For the math challenged, if your two items are the same price your overall discount is 25%. That drops as the price on your second item drops.

Suits at Perry Ellis are $119 (yowza!) until Halloween. Until then you can pick up a dress shirt for $25 and a tie for $15. Some fall sportswear is 40% off. Tempting to buy a tie for hubby and stash it away as a Christmas present, but pretty much every tie I've given him he pushes aside for his favorite red Beatles "Strawberry Fields" tie. C'est la vie. If you are planning a shopping spree for him, check out the men's sale at Saks Fifth Avenue - Off 5th. It starts Oct 15 and goes thru Oct 24 and offers an extra 20% off all men’s clothes, shoes and accessories. Yummy!

Until Oct 15, 2007 Restoration Hardware has markdowns of up to 70% on its outdoor furniture. Sounds like a deal to me!

Rmember, the sales are at the outlet stores, not the regular stores. See the full list of Camarillo sales here.

American Baby Magazine is giving away free subscriptions. Fill out the form here for yours, courtesy of Parents.com. Each issue has tips on what to eat, exercises you can do before and after giving birth, and tips for keeping your baby healthy. Unclear if the freebie is for the first issue or all nine months. Parents mag is also giving away two year subscriptions for $9 plus $3 shipping and handling.

Barnes & Noble has two coupons for 10% off one item. The first expires Oct 14, 2007, the other is good until Oct 21, 2007. Print the coupons above for in-store purchases or online use coupon code T8F6E4J for the Oct 21 coupon or code E9J4X7C for the Oct 14 coupon. When I tried it online the E9J4X7C coupon worked but the T8F6E4J did not. That could have been because you are not supposed to combine coupons. Hope it works for you! Find a B&N near you.

Caveats: not good on memberships, gift cards, textbooks, and a few other things. One time use only.

Target has a 10% off coupon that works on most purchases. I tried it on a purple wrap sweater, a Kitchen Aid mixer, and a Hello Kitty two-way radio. Use code TGTAFTXC. Doesn't look like it works in thes tore. Expires 12/31/2007. Wahoo!

Get up to 60% off of DisneyShopping Halloween costumes "for a limited time" (very helpful, guys), and TODAY only get free shipping on certain costumes with code COSTUMESHIP. Normally they offer free shipping with an $80 tab using code SHIP80. They will take an extra 15% off with code 3799. Check out the selection of costumes for boys, girls, adults, babies, pets, and accessories.

More bike sales! This time at Nashbar, an online store that has a 10% off coupon on orders of $50 or more. The catalogue shows a huge selection of fitted spoty tops and jackets (including many by Pearl Izumi), tights, caps, gloves, shoes, helmets, various computers, lights, gears, wheels, tires, and seats. Use code 23610 online or over the phone (800-627-4227). Good thru Oct 22, 2007.

Alaska Airlines has another 15% off coupon for certain flights. The local sale is for flights from LAX to Cancun, Medford, or Manzanillo, wherever that is. Mexico? As long as there is a beach and a margarita, my schedule is free. Get the discount by booking online with travel dates between Oct 23 and Dec 13, 2007, but not on Nov 16, 17, 21, 24-26, 2007. Use code EC06007 when booking. Expires Oct 14, 2007.

OSH has some garden specials good thru Oct 20, 2007 that are worth stopping in if they fit your dirt needs. Their potting soil is $3, a dollar off from the normal price, for a cubic foot. A lighted tape measure is half off at $5 and a folding utility knife is $7 (orig $10). If the night chill is making you crave a fire, duraflame logs are $1.50 (orig $1.90) and 6-packs are $9 (orig $11). Their garden gloves are $4 for a three-pack (orig $4.50). Read the sales ad for the store nearest to you. Find OSH coupons on other stuff you might need here.

Find an OSH near you.

The PetSmart in Valencia is clearing out all its equine gear, a reader tells me. The sale goes until Oct 15 but most of the stuff is already gone, an employee said when I called. They still have a few reins left, pants, T-shirts, a cap, and "maybe one pair of shoes." Everything is 50% off. No wonder everything is galloping out of the store! If you are looking for something specific best to call ahead and see if they have it.

Visit them at 24965 Pico Canyon Rd., Stevenson's Ranch. (661) 260-3990.

Normally you have to spend $50 to get free delivery at Staples. But until Oct 13, 2007 the office supply store is offering free shipping, no matter the size of your order. I just tried it with some ink toner and it worked. For online orders only.

Found myself a Lincoln lunch at the newly-opened casual restaurant Urban Eats on Magnolia Blvd. in Burbank, a few blocks down from the renown Cuban bakery Porto's. The food seems well priced, even if there were not too many options under a fiver (which bears the face of old prez Lincoln). I ordered a small salad - you choose between mesclun or romaine lettuce plus 3 toppings and dressing - for $4.25. A large is $6.50 and you get two additional toppings. I picked corn, mushrooms and red onions and cilantro lime dressing, which was tangy but didn't zap my taste buds. The lettuce was fresh and the toppings plentiful. It looked big when it came but two hours later I wished I had also ordered a side of foccacia bread for $1.50.

The best deal of the house last for the month of October, when all draft beers are only $2 (normally $4.25). They have Anchor Steam, Carlsberg Pilsner, Pyramid Hefeweizen, and Urban eats Honey Blonde on tap. Happy hour, anyone?

Urban Eats also has sandwiches ($4.95 to $8.65), sides like mac n' cheese and potato salad ($1.50 to $3.50) and a la carte meat ($2 to $5.95). For the full menu go here.

And as long as we're on the topic of salad I will share this little ditty my hubby likes to sing on occasion:
Yadon't make friends with saaa-lad.
Yadon't make friends with saaa-lad.
(It helps if you twist your shoulders back and forth on Yadon...friends...salad.)

Visit them at 3501 W Magnolia Blvd at Avon St. (818) 848-1106.

If you'd like to get all the day's new blog posts send me your email and I will sign you up for the Bargain Hunter Daily Digest. The digest does out once a day with all the new deals and discounts. For some readers this is easier than visiting the site. And it's so much quicker than snail mail! Email me at julia.scott@dailynews.com

if you are interested. Thanks!

Apple.com just reduced the prices on its refurbished iPod Nanos. 2GB's are $70 (orig $149), 4GB are $99 (orig $199), 8GB are $149 (orig $249). These are for the second generation Nanos, not the new ones that just came out with big screens. They come with a one-year warranty.

The bike store Wheel World is offering free shipping for the next three days, thru Oct 11, 2007. No minimum purchase, but the deal excludes frames, forks, wheel sets, and built kits. The free shipping makes the sales on full face helmets, regular helmets (like the Giro '07 Havoc for $40, orig $70), an even better deal. Check out their discounts on bike shoes. See all their specials here.

Locations in Woodland Hills and Culver City.

Slice a few dollars off your race fees with these discounts, good until Oct 10 at midnight:
Save $15 off the Las Vegas Marathon Dec 2 with code VIVA VEGAS (orig $95).
Save $7 off the Vegas half Marathon, also Dec 2?, with code VEGAS HALF (orig $85).
Save $10 on the LA Marathon Mar 2 with code LA STAR (orig $95).

Overstock.com, an online retailer that has steep discounts, is offering $1 shipping for three-days only, ending Oct 10, 2007. The second generation iPod Nano is $135 (orig $150). But really the shipping sale is a great time to buy bulky items that are normally expensive to ship. I like this stylish woven wood chair for $240 (orig $600). Comfortable? I have no idea. These red and blue kids' scooters look like an awful lot of fun, for $48 (orig $75).

Caveats: Within the 48 contiguous states. Excludes orders comprised solely of products from the "Books, Music, Movies & Games", "Auctions", "Travel", and "Cars" categories.

Through Halloween all pies at Marie Callender's are $5 if you order on in the restaurant or $6 for pick up. Normally they are $9 to $13.50. My favorites types of pie are chocolate, key lime, apple, but I'm tempted by their Kahlua Cream Cheese pie and Razzleberry pie (raspberries and blueberries). For a full list of their pies go here.
Locations in Northridge, Sherman Oaks, Pasadena, Simi Valley, Valencia, Westlake Village, Lancaster, and Glendale.

Weight Watchers will shave 25% off their fee if you join for three-months. Normally it is $30 to join and $17 a month. So one month is $46 and three months is $60 after the discount. Expires Oct 31, 2007, according to CouponCabin.

Zales is offering 30% off its already-marked down clearance jewelry. I like these white gold hanging earrings that have a few tiny diamonds (1/7of a karat) for $101 (orig $169) and with the 30% off they are about $71. Unclear when the sale ends.

JCrew has some great sales in its clearance pile. A warning though: all sales are finals. So really go for the cuts and styles you *know* fit your bod and taste. I like this emerald green beach dress that falls to the knee for $90 (orig $125). A similar dress, but strapless, is $40 (orig $98). These baja flats are super cute, for $80 (orig $118). Yikes! In size 11 only. This blue and red belt for $10 (orig $34) would spice up a white dress but comes in size s/m only. S/m fits up to a 34-inch waist, the site says.

You can search sale items by size here.

Premium Denim Jeans travels around the country selling top brand jeans at 40% to 70% below retail, they claim. This weekend they are going to be at Pasadena Community College, says BargainsLA.

On Sat Oct 13 from 10 to 1 it is $15 to get in if you RSVP or $20 at the door. From 1 to 4 it is free if you RSVP or $3 at the door. Sun, Oct 14 doors are open 10 to 4, free if you RSVP or $3 at the door. RSVP here by registering on the site. Parking is $2 per car. Communal dressing rooms.

Premium Denim Jeans has guidelines for finding jeans that look fab on you.

Visit the Pasadena Community College Education Center at 3035 E. Foothill Blvd. Pasadena.

Amazon.com is having a 48-hour kitchen sale that ends Oct 9, 2007. Click to see the sales in small appliances, cookware, tablewear, cutlery and tools, vacuums and cleaning stuff, or everything on sale. I like this polycarbonate salad dressing maker that has markers for the ingredients you need to add for various dressings. It's $4 (orig $10).

A lot of the items are eligible for free shipping if your tab is $25 or higher. If you need a few filler items to hit the $25 mark check out SlickDeals filler list.

Ever wonder why people stand in front of the candy machine for so long? It's the height of instant gratification. Your sugar cravings are gunning, the bright packages of sweets make your mouth watery, and a crisp dollar in hand makes the world seem full of possibilities. The choice is hard, but you can't delay. Then the package lands -chunk- and as your fingers slip into the machine it seems you haven't picked the biggest one. Munch munch munch so tasty. But oh it's a shame. The last one is gone.

(not my actual lunch)
There's no question that the BBQ chopped salad at Stone Fire Grill is tasty. But it's best to go with someone you can share a lunch with because even the small serving is tough for two mouths to finish. I think I had four helpings and my friend the same before we saw the bottom of the bowl. Don't plan on stashing half for later because the dressing is thick enough that it just doesn't save. The $8 mixed green salad ($13 for medium, serves 3-4 and $17 for large, serves 5-6) comes with black beans, corn, bits of red cabbage and carrots, a few tortilla strips, and tomatoes. You get to choose BBQ chicken, tri tip or salmon (not on the menu but they offered it in person) for the same price. I like the tri tip.

There are not a lot of other Lincoln Lunches on the menu, unless you order from the kids menu or consider 12 breaksticks ($4) a meal. Prices are high because it's family-style portions. Also, the sodas will bump up your tab a lot, like most restaurants. For the menu go to their homepage then at the bottom of the page click on Menu. Locations in Valencia, West Hills, Irvine, Fountain Valley, and Chatsworth.

Buy a warm coat and you won't need to worry about being seduced on a cold, snowy night like the fawn in "Baby It's Cold Outside." (one of my favorite Christmas songs).

I know, it never gets cold in LA compared to the rest of the non-desert country. But when you live through triple-digits, 60 degrees IS cold. And today it was 66 AND windy so with the windchill that's like 65.5. Brrrrrr! To keep you warm, here's a round up of coat sales:

SmartBargains has knocked 20% off its outerwear. I like the wool three-button shorty by Marvin Richards in black or ivory for $80 (orig $150).

MetroStyle has a smallish collection of coats that are $5 to $10 off, plus use code MSPASS to get $20 of a purchase of $60 or more. Their faux fur coat is super cute and is $110 (orig $120). Using MSPASS dropped it down $20 but shipping was a whopping $12.

Plus all the big department stores are having sales this weekend for Columbus Day.

Through Halloween, Islands (the burger place) is giving away a free basket of French fries when you buy an entree (food from the kids menu and appetizers don't count). Print the coupon here. Take a peek at the menu here. Find a store near you in Calif. Expires Oct 31, 2007.

Restaurant.com considers themselves a matchmaker between hungry people and restuarants. They provide tons of restaurant listings, which you can search by zip code, food type, or by name (but not by proximity, which is annoying). Restaurant.com also sells gift certificates and until Oct 7, 2007 they are selling them at 50% below their regular price, which is $10 for a $25 gift certificates. Sounds like free money, right?

It is and it isn't because each restaurant requires you to spend a certain amount for the certificate to be good. At Anarkali you have to spend $35 plus they add 18% gratuity to bill, which makes it $44.70 including tax. Subtract the $25 certificate, add the $5 you paid for the certificate, and you end up paying $24.7 for a $41.3 tab. Not bad. I'm not going to bore you with all the math, but the more you have to spend to use the certificate, the less it saves you.

Use code DISCOVER when checking out to get the discount. Expires Oct. 7.

...The Shopping Detective, a new show on the Fine Living TV Network, follows a young gal around as she shops for luxury goods. The first episode, which premiered Sept. 29, saw host Lindsey Gladstone (pictured) looking for the perfect Little Black Dress, glasses, and a pair of shades.

It's clear from the start that her budget is above what most have in their wallets. After settling on a "perfect" black dress (incidentally, the most boring of everything she looked at), she checked the price tag: $900. I choked, she chattered on. I shouldn't be surprised. It's on the Fine Living Network and they are catering to a cushy audience. But the show doesn't have the appeal (in my humble opinion, I'm no TV critic) of Robin Leach's "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous," where everything was so ridiculously expensive you were meant to gawk and gag. The Shopping Detective is just a girl-next-door prancing around with wads of dough.

Case in point her take on sunglasses. After touring an upper crusty boutique she delivers a thinly-veiled sales pitch for why we should pay for $$$ originals instead of $ knockoffs. Pointing to the $$$ originals she says you'll be able to "wear them longer." The "cheap ones just fall apart." Here's another take: Do I really want a pair of sunglasses that last for years while styles changes constantly? Do I want to risk losing/scratching/breaking something so fragile AND expensive?

That said, if you have $900 to throw down on a Little Black Dress and another $300 for shades, you will probably love this show. It's fun! It's perky! Spending tons of money is fun! Just don't forget to take your ADD pill. The show is edited so tightly it's like being on a roller coaster in Bloomingdale's.

You can find out what channel near your is showing the Shopping Detective by going to their homepage and entering your zip code in a box on the lower left. Fine Living's Web site was super slow and problematic so give it time or check back later.

The online Guess Factory store is having a 25% off sale. You don't need a coupon, just click to see the women's sales, the men's sale, what's marked down for girls and for boys. The discount off your entire purchase is not taken until you add an item to your cart. Sale lasts until Oct 17, 2007 and does NOT include in-store purchases at Guess Factory retail stores, GUESS retail stores, Marciano retail stores, G by GUESS retail stores, Guess.com, GUESS.ca, Marciano.com, ShopMarciano.ca, or GbyGUESS.com.

Get 10% off appliances priced $297 and higher at Home Depot through Oct. 10. The fine print - curse the fine print! - says the discount is only good on "select" appliances. But you can look at the 1,825 appliances on sale here. before you head into a store. 10% is not a huge discount, but on the other hand how often do appliances go on sale? Ask if opening a HomeDepot line of credit will give you an extra discount. And remember not to be fooled into thinking that anything with a stainless steel outer is high quality. That look is so trendy that everybody uses it.

Caveats: Discount excludes taxes, warranty, delivery and installation fees. Markdown taken at register.

Home Depot also has a $5 mail-in rebate for Behr paint, which normally goes for about $20 to $25 a gallon. Ends Oct. 8.

Find a store near you.

You'll feel pretty smooth after using this coupon at Carter's. Until Oct 16, 2007 they are offering $10 off an in-store purchase of $50 or more, and $20 worth of stamps on your frequent shopper card (every $100 of stamps gets you $10 at the store), and an extra 50% off anything on "super-duper clearance." Surely you know someone about to pop or new parents who didn't realize babies go through, like, five outfits a day. Talk about needing a style consultant...

Locations here.

Aaron Brothers has a 25% off coupon for custom frame orders. I chose a frame and matte for an old sepia-toned picture of my father-in-law when he was about 5 at an Aaron Brothers last month and it looks great, but sometimes it's really hard to tell what brings out the best in a picture or piece of art. Expires Oct. 21. Locations near you.

Buy any bottle of wine and get a second one (the same bottle) for just 5 cents at BevMo. Online they list 195 bottles that are part of the sale (guess it doesn't apply to the entire store.) They give a description of the wine and it's rating on a scale of 1 to 100, plus any prizes it has won. Knowing that a lot of folks give bottles of wine as presents around the holiday, it's a great time to stock up. I'd get a dozen and whatever you don't give away you can drink yourself or save for a dinner party. The deal also seems to include some hard alcohol. I just added a second bottle of Skyy Vodka to my cart and the tab only went up by five-cents!

This Auguste Bessac Cotes du Rhone '06 is $13 and scored 89 points by their judge, Wilfred Wong. The blurb says: "A frisky red, the lively '06 Auguste Bessac Cotes-du-Rhone delivers a complete package; excellent ripe fruit on the palate and superb freshness in the aftertaste." Sounds like an adventure.

The Baroncini Chianti '06 is $14 and is described as a "picture-perfect Chianti; the straight-forward and focused '06 Baroncini Chianti simply drinks well; no more and no less, this wine is not fancy, just plain good." I like the sound of that!

If you want to spend a little more consider the Paoletti Cabernet '02 for $35. It scored 90 points and is "bright, firm, and full of ripe fruit flavors, this almost-in-your-face wine lasts long and smooth on the palate."

The El Portillo Malbec Rose '06 goes great with grilled pork chops, according to the description. It's $15.

The Grant Burge Chardonnay '04, $15, has my mouth watering. It is described as "a delicious Chardonnay from Australia; this white has a bright golden color, with aromas of fresh pineapples, and melon; on the palate, it is rich and medium bodied with notes of butterscotch."

You can also shop online and pick up your order in a store that you choose. Sale ends Oct. 29. Locations here.

According to SlickDeals, Domino's Pizza is delivering free medium pizzas with one topping in *select* areas when you order online and use the coupon code CLICK. Thru Oct 10. A partial list of area codes and cities that work was compiled by readers of SlickDeals, so I ain't guaranteeing anything. But these are the areas that they say work around here (there could be many more, try calling your local chain):
Anaheim, CA 92804
Arcadia, CA
Costa Mesa, CA (#8477)--think that's a store number
Orange, CA
Pasadena, CA (91106,91107,91104)
Santa Monica, CA
Tustin, CA 92782
Woodland Hills - Working.

Remember to tip the driver.

Nintendo is giving away up to four Wii remote jackets for those who bought their game console before Nintendo was including them with the purchase. That explains why they were 40% off at Meritline a few days ago. To get the freebies you need the serial number and a bit of patience. On this form enter the serial number, which is on the back of the console and begins with two letters, the number of jackets (little silicone things that fit snug as a glove around the remove) you want and whether you bought yours in the US or Canada. Takes a few weeks to get to you.

I love receiving the REI Adventures booklet describing their guided trips. The pictures are amazing and I'm always tempted seriously enough to pitch one to my main squeeze, who inevitably responds with: hmmmmm. How can he turn down an exploration of the Inca Trail leading to the ruins of Machu Picchu when it is described like this: "Getting there is half the thrill, as we trek the same lush, ancient Peruvian paths the Incas themselves used, leading us through thick canopy, wildflower meadows, and cloud forests." Cloud forests! I want to be in a cloud forest! The only thing that sinks my armchair adventure is the price: $3,300 plus airfare. POP! That's the sound of my bubble bursting. Hmmmmm.

See Jane Run, an athletic store for those of us with two chromosones (I'm done with the "fairer sex" moniker, I sweated buckets last night in yoga) has a coupon for $20 off a purchase of $50 or more (can't be sale items). Their clothes, shoes, and gear are full-priced, but high quality and this is a good coupon. I don't go far without my Chacos sandals so I recommend this pair in fiery orange and red for $50. Also in black, sizes 6 to 11 but not half sizes, it appears. What's up with that? Print this coupon for in-store shopping, or use code 20bucks during the online checkout. I also like this nylon cargo tote that is useful for beach trips, the farmer's market, everyday lugging, and more. Five different colors, in small or medium.

Until Oct 31, 2007, get 20% off your bill of $99 or more at Footlocker with coupon code LKS17TB2. The Web site lets you shop by sport, size, brand, etc. Very useful. I found my favoriate Saucony running shoes in just a few clicks. Find a store near you.

A friend at work turned me onto the $15 Dollar Store, which is just what it sounds like: everything is $15. I have never heard of many of the brands - Cemasi, Escio, or Kersh, anyone? But I do like some of the clothes. For instance, this black and white stretch dress by La Belle (shown in red) is cute and looks like it would fit a variety of body types. Made of a poly/spandex blend so don't expect too much, though. Comes in size small only unfortunately. These girls brown 3/4-length cargos by Esprit look like you could get plenty rough and tumble in them. For your girly side, there's a red camisole with a stretchy top by Jessica Simpson's Princy line. With cute tie straps over the shoulders. Don't forget to check out their selection of Kenneth Cole Reaction wallets.

Caveats: No returns! That means all sales are final. Also, shipping is $7 to $12 for tabs under $100. After that it's free. Read all their store policies here.

Jamba Juice has a buy-one-get-one free offer for a free 16-ounce smoothie with you buy any "functional" smoothie. Functionals include the Protein Berry Workout with soy or whey protein, acai Super-Antioxident, Fit 'n Fruitful, Heart Defender and my personal favorite (ding ding ding ding ding) Coldbuster. In case any of these sound too healthy to be good, rest be assured that JJ smoothies often have ice cream, frozen yogurt, or some other tasty treat in them.

Print the coupon here. Good thru Oct 16, 2007. Find a JJ near you.

Caveats: one per visit. Participating locations only.

I've always wanted to go to Alaska. The wilderness, glaciers, and wide open space seem so incredible, and that's only from reading coffee table books. Right now I'm waiting for the spring thaw, but if you are going be sure to use this 20% off coupon for flights between LAX and Anchorage on Alaska Airlines. Use coupon code EC05907 when making your reservation on alaskaair.com. Offer expries Oct 7.

Caveats: Must travel between Oct 16 and Dec 13, 2007. Dates around Thanksgiving are blacked out (Nov 16, 17, 21, 24-26, 2007.)

Everybody is having a birthday. Now its ChocolateBox's turn. The La Canada Cafe is giving away free gelato and coffee to customers Oct 27 and 28 to mark it's first year in business. The Cafe is 100% organic and the goods are regularly flown in from Italy. They carry all the flavors you've come to associate with gelato: Hazelnut, Stracciatella (a fancy way of saying chocolate chip), Strawberry, Coconut, Lemon Sorbetto, etc.

If you spend $10 bucks in the store they will enter you into a drawing for an iPhone, to be given away Christmas Eve. Visit them at 714 Foothill Blvd. in La Canada. (818) 790-7918.

This is not news but is very useful. I was out on my lunch break today and didn't know where the nearest JC Penny was. (Their clothes seems to be getting a lot cuter these days and I wanted to check it out myself.) So I called 800-GOOG-411 to use Google's free business listings. They don't have ads anymore but also don't list residences. It works from cell phones too.

You can also get free directory assistance at 800-FREE-411, which has residential listings but also ads. I had to listen to two commercials before getting the listing I called for and had the opportunity to be connected to one of the advertising companies directly. Before repeating the phone number, they played a third ad. Lame! This one I've only tried from a land line, but I don't see why it's should be free from your cell phone (of course the cell company will still charge you minutes or whatever the deal is in your contract).

Time to plan your fall getaway. Southwest is having a fare sale with these $59 one-way flights from Burbank to Oakland, CA, Phoenix, AZ, Sacramento, CA, San Jose, CA. From LAX there are these one-way flights: $99 to Ft. Myers, FL, $89 to Philadelphia, PA, $49 to Phoenix, AZ, $49 to Sacramento, CA, and $99 to Washington (Dulles), DC.

Caveats: Book by Oct 4, travel between Nov 28 and Dec 19.

Juvie, a Silver Lake clothing store for tweens, is celebrating its first bday with free cupcakes, lemonade and a 20% off sale. The entire store is marked down! Stop by Sat between 10 and 7 or Sun between 11 and 5. Visit them at 2395c Glendale Blvd. between Silver Lake Blvd. and Brier Ave. in Silver Lake. (323-667-0344). Thanks CityMommy!

KB Toys is offering free standard shipping on Halloween costumes, but the prices aren't that great to start with. Most seemed to start at about $18. But you decide. Maybe the quality is better than at other places. Ends Oct. 15.

The English rock band Radiohead is giving away it's next CD, "In Rainbows" in digital format on its web site. You can buy the "disc box" with a CD and vinyl copy for 40 pounds, to be shipped Dec 3. The digital copy (10 songs) will be available starting Oct 10 and technically you *can* pay for it, but it's up to you. Once you add the digital copy to your cart and view the cart, the price is blank. I entered zip zero nuttin and it worked.

The thinking is big bands like Radiohead don't make much money on their CDs, the music labels do. And they figure some fans will pay for it even given the freebie choice. (Though I'm seriously wondering how many.) According to NPR, their past albums have debuted in the top three on the Billboard charts and the last one sold 300,000 in the first week.

I grew up with a Mom who believes good shoes are worth paying for and I stick to that motto even though the cash now comes from my wallet. Which is why I am excited about a free shipping offer at Nordstrom's for full-priced shoes online. Their shoes are the best (style-wise, quality-wise, and comfort-wise), though often pricey. This deal lasts thru Oct 29. The Stella flat by Boutique Nordstrom has a buckle across the toe and comes in seven shades of black, red, cream, and blue for $70. Practical for work but cute. Would probably also go with many skirts. This patent red 3-inch pump, also by Boutique Nordstrom, screams "I'm a sex kitten" but is unique enough that you should really think of what you are going to wear it with before you buy. If you don't already have the rest of the outfit in your closet, factor that into the price.

Bonus: Nordstrom regularly carries shoes through size 11 for women.

Toys 'R Us claims to be having one of the biggest sales of the year. Halloween costumes are 50% off. For tikes there is a cow, lady bug or dinosaur costume for $7.50. For older kids costumes like Cheetah Girl, a fairy, a power ranger or black spiderman are $10 to $15. Games like Life, Monopoly, and Operation are 30% off (all games from Milton Bradley, Hasbro and Parker Bros are). Thomas Train sets are up to 35% off, like the Thomas-Saurus Rex Set is $50 (orig $80). Lincoln Logs and Tinker Toys are 25% off. Time for early Christmas shopping. Prices good thru Oct. 6. Read the ad. Locations near you.

Buy a drink at a Starbucks across the nation and get a 2-for-1 coupon good for any drink on any weekend in Oct. They are also passing out a free iTunes download for Bob Dylan's "Jokerman." The barista said she had six packs of the coupons and will hand them out until they are gone, so don't delay. The first 300 customers each day will get the iTune coupon, to be given out every morning this month. I guess they will change what the song is to accomodate repeat customers. BONUS: Someone left their coupon and iTunes download behind. I'm not usually a scavenger, but Starbucks coffee is pricey! Score for me.

The swanky Tower Hotel in Beverly Hills is liquidating all the furniture from their guest rooms, suites, lobby, pool, and restaurant. It is going out of business and will re-open next year as another hotel. (Their Web site is already defunct.) The sale starts Wed Oct 10 and goes thru Sun Oct 21. 10-6 each day. Visit them at 1224 S. Beverwil Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90035. Free and open to the public. For more info email the folks running the sale, Fort Pitt Furniture out of Chicago, at fortpitt@hotmail.com.

If you are new to the Tower, LA.com says it is a "stylish 12-story hotel overlooking Beverly Hills is a half-mile from Rodeo Drive, six miles from Hollywood, and seven miles from Venice Beach. LAX is 11 miles away. The hotel offers a walled garden with outdoor splash pool and cabanas, a fitness center, and a fusion restaurant; pets receive their own room-service menu, bed, and toys. The 137 guestrooms feature private, furnished balconies with city views, high-speed and television Internet access, VCRs, fax machines, and monogrammed bathrobes."

(the old guy himself)
Get 20% off any one item at Eddie Bauer until Oct. 8. Use coupon code FRACQ07 online. Other Eddie Bauer coupons here. Thanks Coupon Album!

Signing up for EB's email list gets your a 20% off coupon online (code EMWLCQ3), over the phone (mention code 186), or in stores--that one only works if you sign up yourself. To sign up go to their homepage and scroll all the way to the bottom.

I adore this black tube top dress by Susana Monaco, which is only left in size large, for $49 (orig $97). But even if you are squeamish when it comes to showing a little skin, pair this 26-inch long dress (sounds shorter than it is, I just checked a ruler) with a wrap or pashmina to adjust the amount of skin and cleavage you are comfortable showing. The Shopbop description says it is a "soft, fitted tube dress with A-line skirt. Lined at bodice." Free ground shipping.

Shopbop is also having a drawing for a free Foley + Corinna purse. Says one drawing per day until Oct 31, but then it also says two purses will be given away Oct 15. Huh?

I love giving magazine subscriptions as gifts because it seems most people like getting magazines but they don't like buying them. Best Deal Magazines has a few offers worth looking into: 12 issues of Car & Driver for $4.69, 9 issues of Vegetarian for $3.69, and 45 issues of Golf Week for $4.69. On second thought, the Web site does look a little sketchy. When I called the 1-800 customer service number it didn't pick up for a few rings, then a recording told me that they only take customer service questions and comment via email. Red flag. When I went back to the CONTACTS page I reaad that emails from AOL, Roadrunner, Comcast or Cox accounts bounce back!?! Here is their explanation: **AOL, Roadrunner, Comcast or Cox may block responses from our customer service department. We do not know why this happens. Please use an alternate e-mail address to ensure that you receive a response to your customer service inquiry." Major sketchiness. I do not recommend patronizing this Web site. The prices are too good to be true, in my book. Instead, I suggest you try ValueMags.com. I ordered a magazine through this Web site without any problems.

UPDATE: A reader emailed me to say that she has multiple magazine subscriptions through Best Deal Magazines and not had any trouble.

Until 6:30 am Oct. 6, Bluefly is offering an extra 10% off its cutting-edge clothes by entering coupon code 3N49CHW at checkout. A like this fitted Army green jacket by Elie Tahari for $268 (orig $448). It's perfect for the office and if you wear a cami underneath, just take off the jacket and you're ready for happy hour or a sizzling date. I also love this cropped teal jacket with a snazzy cut and really cute buttons by Robert Rodriguez. It's $246 (orig $410) and they only have sizes 0,2,4,8 and 12. I adore jackets like this because you can put on any old pair of jeans and a basic top and you still look great. Would go great with dangly earrings in black, gold, or a color similar to the jacket. And while you might be able to find a much cheaper version of the top jacket, I don't think the same is true for the teal jacket.

Northridge Hospital Medical Center is offering free mammograms to uninsured and underinsured women age 40 and up or who have a history of breast cancer. Call (818) 885-5400 to make an appointment at the hospital. Program ends at the end of Oct. Visit them at 18300 Roscoe Blvd in Northridge.

Best Buy has priced 40 DVDs at $5 (orig $10-$13) including Jack Black's School of Rock (better than Nacho Libre, in my opinion), The Italian Job, Mission Impossible, The Hours, Catch My If You Can, Fatal Attraction, and Zoolander. Can you say stocking stuffers?

Get your books and get 'em cheap at the Giant Used Book Sale at the Chatsworth Branch Library Sat Oct. 20. The sale is from 10 to 2. Hardbacks are $1 and paperbacks are 50-cents. The sale is sponsored by the Friends of the Chatsworth Library and proceeds go to purchase new books for the library and sponsor library programs, according to a publicity-minded Friend. The sale happens four times a year, but I believe this is the last one before the holidays. Would be a great place to pick up presents for the kids!

Visit them at 21052 Devonshire St., Chatsworth.