Free or $1.00 Movies (Rated G or G) Weekday Mornings This Summer

Part of summer is finding ways to keep youngsters occupied and entertained while school is out. Three major movie theatre chains, Regal, AMC and Cinemark have created a special weekday morning film festival. Regal has free admission and the other two charge just $1.00.

Regal is showing their Free Family Film Festival movies Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at 10:00 am, with seating first-come, first-served. Here's a link to check out the dates and films in your area.

AMC and Caremark also have special festivals, but they are charging $1.00 per admission. AMC's shows are Wednesdays at 10:00 am and proceeds go to two charities. Here's their link. Cinemark's program is also $1.00 per show, but you can get tickets for all ten shows for a total of $5.00. Their program appears to be any weekday morning. To see their choices, click here.

Hey, for one of those summer mornings (especially if it's rainy), these might be a handy diversion to remember!

Disney Regal Sun Resort 40% Off (Plus Discount on Gas)

Looking for a stay at Walt Disney World® in June or July? Bookit.com has an offer showing 40% off hotel rates at the Regal Sun resort inside Walt Disney World® Resort in Downtown Disney. That makes a stay $89 a night, which is already pretty attractive. To make it nicer they include some half-price gas cards for stays of 3 nights and up.

The hotel has undergone a renovation with some new rooms, 2 outdoor heated pools and an aquatic playground, new lobby area, poolside, dining, and bar area. The price of a stay also comes with a $25 credit at the pool bar, and a free Disney shuttle.

The Bookit special is available for bookings made by June 2nd, and is valid until July 31st.

So if Orlando and Disney are a travel possibility for you, click here to see if this deal is for you.

8-Foot USB-to-USB Transfer Cable Free After Rebate

If you could use a USB-to-USB Cable (perhaps to transfer data between PCs or some other uses), how about getting one free? Buy.com is offering an 8-foot USB 2.0 Easy Transfer Cable by CP Technologies for $19.99. And it had a rebate offer for $20.00 for purchases made before June 16th. Shipping is free, so it's yours for basically nothing.

The cable has a 4-pin Type A USB 2.0 connection at each end, and the nice 8-foot length will make it a bit more convenient and comfortable when you're connecting the two devices.

If you could use one of these, or want to take a look, click on the picture below.

Amazon.com Toy Clearance: Hannah, HSM, Elmo, Batman and Spider-Man Items + More

Update June 2nd -- Some of amazon's prices have reverted back higher (like the Pirates of the Caribbean and Hot Wheels) but many are still at the dropped prices.

Right in time to get ready for summer, Amazon has some clearance prices on a variety of toys, for boys and girls of all age ranges. You can get savings of 50%, 60% and up to about 70%.

If you buy items that bring the total to over $25.00, these are eligible for free shipping as well.

Here are some highlights of items on clearance. If your child has another favorite character or story, you can search inside the Amazon website to see if those prices have been cut too.

Hannah Montana "In Concert Collection" Deluxe Singing w/ "True Friend" $10.00, list price $24.99.
High School Musical: Locker Gear (Sharpay) $3.90 ($12.99 list).
High School Musical: Locker Gear (Troy) $3.90 ($12.99)
Fisher-Price Sesame Street Elmo's Learning Fun Laptop $15.00 ($32.79).
Elmo Musical from Sesame Street $10.00, (lists at $24.99).
Sesame Street Giant Floor Pad Activity Set $6.00 ($14.99 list).
Car-Go Fun: Go Diego Go! And Dora DVD Travel Game $7.20 ($17.99).
Laptop Art Desk: Orange $5.99, ($14.98 list price).
Spider-Man 3: Sandman Bank Heist $9.00 ($29.99 list).
Pirates of the Caribbean Flagship Battlers: Black Pearl $8.00 (List $19.99)
Hot Wheels® Superman Returns™ Transporter $5.20 ($16.19)
Shelcore - NASCAR Tony Stewart Combo Pack $5.40 ($17.99)
Batman Lights & Sounds Trike $13.50 (lists at $41.49)

Free Tool Bonus at Lowe's

If you shop at Lowe's (or know someone who does), here's a way to get a free 10-piece screwdriver set, 2-piece pliers or a 13-in-1 speed fit screwdriver. Between now and June 15th, if you purchase $50 or more in gift cards at Lowe's, they have a mail-in offer for your choice of one of these three tool items mailed to you for free.

If you know a handyman who shops there and always enjoys picking up new tools, a gift card can always come in handy. But even if you're not planning to give someone a gift card, there's no reason you couldn't use this deal yourself.

If you're going to Lowe's and plan to buy more than $50 for some item(s) you need for a project, you could always buy a gift card for that amount (saving that receipt to qualify for the tool rebate) and then redeem the gift card on the same visit to get your items.

When redeeming the gift card, don't forget to also see about using the $10 off $25 Visa coupon I wrote about in my blog a while ago. I think you could buy a $60 item with the gift card and that coupon.

Lots of ways to combine savings and pick up a nice spare tool in the balance.

Here's the link to the free tool rebate.

Nice, Classic Waterman Pen - $10.00 with Free Shipping

If you're looking for a small gift for a soon-to-be graduate you know, or a nice gift for some other occasion, or even a nice, classic pen for yourself, buy.com is offering the Classic Waterman Pen, reduced from $99.99 down to $10.00. Shipping is free so that's a nicer bargain all around.

Here's the description from their website: "This Waterman pen is equipped with a soft push mechanism, to easily release and retract, simply push the top portion of the pen down. A striking, deep marble finish gives this pen a rich, expensive look."

If you'd like to get one of these pens, perhaps to give as a small keepsake or to give yourself some writing comfort, click Classic Waterman Ballpoint Pen (Black-Black).

Inflatable Spaceship Bouncer/Pool for Kids $14.99

Looking for something to cool off your young children during some hot summer days ahead that can also provide some fun times when the weather is cooler or they need to play indoors? Here's a combination inflatable pool and bouncer in the imaginative design of a spaceship. Improvementscatalog.com has reduced the price from $69.99 to $14.99.

It becomes a pool with a bouncy bottom and water spraying from the top when you connect it to a water hose.

And when you want to use it as a bouncer indoors or out, you can add air only instead of water.

It's intended for ages 4 and measures 64"Dia. x 76"H when inflated. It weighs 10 lbs. and is made of PVC with heat-bonded seams. You need a separate pump to inflate it or deflate it for storage, and also includes a repair kit for that accidental puncture that might happen with kids playing around.

Shipping runs another $4.99.

To take a look and see if it's right for your youngsters, click here.

Free DVD on Cyber-Safety

For those of you with growing youngsters, keeping them safe while they're on the Internet is a concern of our times. To help provide some suggestions on how to surf the web safely, the National Cyber Security Alliance has a free interactive DVD available. It's available for free through the Government's Federal Citizen Information Center, just by signing up for a copy.

The DVD's information is aimed for middle school and high school ages, and can be used in classroom settings as well. It's probably got useful information for parents to become familiar as well.

To order your free DVD, click here.

Roundtrip Miami to Guatemala or Costa Rica $125; Roundtrip to Honduras or Nicaragua $145 - Book Today for Travel August-December

Travelocity has a quick special they found on TACA Airlines that needs to be booked right away - today -- if you're interested. It's for travel from Miami to any of four great Central American destinations, flying from August 1st through December 15th.

Sample fares are $125 for a roundtrip to Guatemala or Costa Rica; $145 roundtrip to Honduras or Nicaragua. Airport/security fees are additional.

The actual promo describes the sales as now through December 15 but they have June 15th-July 31st blacked out, so effectively it's from August on.

Click Round-Trip Flights from $125+ w/ Taca Airlines! Expires 5/28/08 for more info.

This is a quick one; if interested, it's today only.

Fisher Price Safari or Jungle Adventure Sets $10.80 or Less at Kohls

Know a youngster who like to use his or her imagination to go on wild adventures? Right now, Kohls has cut the price of two Fisher Price adventure sets from $39.99 down to $11.99. And coupon codes can drop the price another 10% or better.

There are adventures on safari and in the jungle with these two colorful toy sets.

The safari vehicle set features a Safari vehicle with real working doors, grappling hook. There's a large loading cage to holds animals on the back of the vehicle for a zany ride. The set contains a giraffe, monkey, cheetah and spider to ensure hours of fun and adventure. And a collapsible tent adds to the safari experience.

The jungle set includes a colorful rescue plane takes playtime to new heights and a raft to keep your child's jungle pals safe from enemies. The set comes with a tiger, rhino, toucan bird and even some monkeys will bring out the li'l animal in your youngster's imagination.

There are even some coupon codes which can save you a bit more (buying with a Kohls card gets better savings if you have their card):

10% off code (non-Kohls charge) NEW5459
15% off code (Kohls charge) MAY15MVC (Exp. 6/04/08)
Free Shipping (Kohls charge):MVC4410

To take a look at these Fisher-Price® sets click the links below.

Fisher-Price® Imaginext® Safari Vehicle Gift Set
Fisher-Price® Imaginext® Jungle Plane Gift Set Special Edition

Logitech QuickCam Deluxe for Notebooks Just $9.99 After Rebate at Amazon

Amazon.com has cut its price right now on the Logitech QuickCam Deluxe for Notebooks from $59.99 down to $39.99. And there's a $30.00 rebate that brings your net cost down to $9.99.

Shipping is free, and the rebate is valid for purchases made by June 2nd.

I've used the Logitech QuickCam Deluxe for Notebooks myself and it is a very handy little unit. It's really very compact for travel, and the image quality is quite good. Their software comes with a lot of features to help get the best quality for all your webcam needs.

This would certainly be a nice unit to make Skype calls back home when you're on the road on a business trip. And you certainly can't beat the price for a really quality webcam.

To check out more, just click Logitech QuickCam Deluxe for Notebooks.

Buy One, Get One Free Coupon for Shrubs at Home Depot

If you're looking for shrubs to plant in your yard and have a Home Depot nearby, they currently have a coupon available for a free shrub when you buy one. The coupon is valid until June 12th, and is one per customer for one shrub purchase.

Depending on when you arrive (Saturday mornings often have some good selections, or just after some mid-week deliveries) you can sometimes find some nice quality plants available. I guess it depends on your local Home Depot and the type of shrub you're looking to plant.

To get the coupon to print out, click here.

2GB USB Drive with American Flag Design (with 6 Other Designs Also Included): $11.76 Shipped Free

Want to give your memory a little more style? Buy.com is selling a Kingston 2GB USB drive for $11.76 that comes with a variety of skins, including one that's appropriate today (Memorial Day): an American Flag design.

If you want a different design or want to be able to change it every so often, it also comes with six other stylish skin designs: redhead mosaic, bamboo, sunflower, lace, retro and tangerine dream. Two blank skins are included to even let you create your own design.

This is a fully functioning 2GB drive by a reputable manufacturer, at a price lower than you'd find in many stores for a plain-vanilla-looking USB stick.

Shipping is free so the bottom line price to your door is pretty nice.

If you want to take a look, click Kingston 2GB American Flag USB Drive

A New Format -- Three Columns to Lay Out More Information

Well, you must have noticed the new format. It's still the same blog, and all the old posts are still there to read.

As I've been doing the blog, I kept finding more information to share than I could easily format into the old two-column format. So I hope that adding the third column spreads out some information and makes the blog more useful to you.

One of the first additions is a new section indexing posts of interesting buying strategies I've come across or developed over time. It's in the right-hand column right underneath the section called 'Hot Deals Now."

If you have ideas or suggestions, or want to comment on the new design, please feel free to leave a comment by clicking on 'comments' in the area right under this post. The better this blog works for my readers, the happier I am. I'm serious... please feel free to send me comments and suggestions.

For people subscribing by e-mail, I am aware there's a problem...

If you subscribe by sendmerss.com, I'm aware there haven't been any e-mails in a few days. I've contacted the website guru for them and am waiting to see when/how it's resolved.

I had chosen sendmerss.com to do my blog's e-mail updates because they indicated they would send out multiple e-mails a day. And since I update at different times and deals can be time-sensitive, I thought that was preferable to other services that just send out a single summary of all posts once a day.

When this system works it is preferable. But if it's not dependable, I may have to switch to another provider. If that happens, I'll try and let you know in advance and make the transition as easy as I can.

Circuit City DVD Sale at $3.99

Circuit City has a selection of DVDs on which they've discounted the price to just $3.99. There are 64 DVDs on the sale page, including titles such as Alien, Rocky, Dukes of Hazzard, Austin Powers, Reservoir Dogs, Syriana, Sleepers and Caddyshack. Many others...

If you find a bunch you like (or some other items on the site) and get your total over $24, shipping is free.

If you're looking for an opportunity to pick up some DVDs for a nice, low price, check out the full list by clicking Circuit City $3.99 DVDs.

Restaurant.com Promo Code - 60% Off - Valid Until May 31st

Restaurant.com has their latest promo code, good for 60% off the costs of their certificates. This brings the cost of a $25 dining certificate down from $10 to just $4, and for a $10 certificate down from $3.00 to $1.20.

Their promo code discounts generally are higher at the end of months, since some restaurants' allotments of certificates are sold out, but most restaurants still have certificates for the dining savings.

The code is DEAL, and you have to hit the 'apply' button after typing it in for the savings to be applied to your shopping cart.

If you're not familiar with restaurant.com and how the certificates work, go to the bottom of the left column under "labels" for earlier blog posts that explain it.

Here's a link to their site. Buon appetito! Mangia!

Save $50 on 3-Night Hotel Stays in New York, Orlando or San Diego Using MasterCard

Travelocity has a promotional code allowing you to save an additional $50 on 3-night hotel bookings when you use your MasterCard. The offer is valid for stays in New York, San Diego or Orlando, and there are a wide variety of hotels available so you can find a price that fits your travel style. The code is SAVE50, and it's valid if you book the hotel by May 31st.

If you have a trip coming up to one of these cities, it's a nice way of picking up some extra savings.

To do a search for hotels and prices, click the link below. You need to enter the promo code to get the savings.

Use your MasterCard for a 3+ night stay and save $50. Couponcode: SAVE50

Fall Airfare to Europe - Book by May 31st

If you're looking to make a trip across the Atlantic this autumn, 1-800-Fly-Europe has a list of airfares that may make the temptation hard to resist. Fares are valid for departures between September 6th and October 31st and need to be booked by May 31st.

The prices below include fuel surcharges (that's getting to be a big chunk), but don't include airport/security fees.

Sample roundtrip fares you can find on the site include:
Philadelphia-Frankfurt $509
New York-London $487
San Francisco-Paris $649
Seattle-London $609
Los Angeles-Frankfurt $637
Boston-Venice $649

The lowest fare prices are for mid-week travel, with weekends costing a bit more. But if Europe is beckoning and autumn works out better than summer when airfares are higher and cities more crowded, these prices may be worth investigating.

Click here for the link.

Save on Priority Mail or Express Mail Postage - Buy Postage On-Line, and Use Flat-Rate Boxes for Heavier Items

Although postal rates recently went up, the Postal Service has also made it possible for you to get a discount on postage if you purchase Priority Mail or Express Mail on-line and print the labels at home (or in your office). The discount gets you the special Commercial Base Price. On Express Mail, it's 3% off, and on Priority Mail the discount varies based on weight/cost.

Their site indicates the discount can be up to 11% for Priority Mail, although I can't find specifics on what size/weight/cost gets 11% off. But I checked on some samples and found that a 1.5 lb Priority Mail package from the East Coast (i.e. New York, Pennsylvania) to California costing $8.25 at the Post Office would cost $7.96.

If you're sending heavier packages, another way to add some savings for Priority Mail is to use one of their Flat-Rate boxes. These are Priority Mail boxes specifically printed with Flat Rate on the packaging. If you use those, the postage is the same whether the package weighs 2 lbs., 5 lbs. or more. Depending upon the distance the package travels (it costs more to send priority mail cross-country than just a state away), a flat rate box can save you once the weight goes over 2 lbs.

The Post Office rate for a 2.5 lb. Priority Mail package sent in a regular box from New York to California would be $11.50 but in a Flat-Rate box it would be just $9.80. And if you order the Flat-Rate postage label on-line, the postage drops another 50¢, making the postage $9.30.

It's still $9.30 on-line (or $9.80 at the P.O.) for Flat-Rate Priority to California even if the package weighs 5 lbs., which is really a whopping savings over the $17.65 it would cost if you sent it in a regular Priority Mail box and paid at the Post Office.

For packages traveling shorter distances, there may still be savings but they'd start at different weight amounts compared to cross-country. For example, a 2.5 lb. box from Pennsylvania to Ohio would be $6.75 in a regular box ($6.38 on-line) but would still be $9.80 (or $9.30) using the Flat-Rate box. One you get to 5.5 lbs. the costs get closer ($10.00 regular Priority Mail or $9.20 on-line). The savings for Flat Rate on a short haul start showing up in heavier than 6 lbs.

So as you can see, depending on what you're sending and where, there are savings to be had when mailing via Priority Mail by two methods: first consider using the on-line label purchase to save a few percent; and using a Flat-Rate box when sending something a bit heavier. It's worth getting the respective costs at the Postal Service domestic postage calculator before you send that package.

This might save you some big bucks around the holidays when you're sending lots of packages, especially if your family/friends are far flung.

Thomas the Tank Engine $2.99 with Free Shipping

If your youngster, grandchild, niece, nephew, etc. is a fan of Thomas the Tank, here's a nice little version that you can send for a bargain. Learning Curve is offering this little version for $2.99, including free shipping.

The site doesn't give specs on the size etc., but I have a feeling it's a fairly small version -- it is being sent in a padded envelope wrapped in tissue. Still, for a Thomas fan, it might bring a smile and some playtime enjoyment.

To check it out, click this link.

Microsoft Axis Binder for 15.4" Laptops $19.99 After Rebate

If you're on the prowl for a laptop case that's got lots of accessory compartments plus some added features for usefulness when you're on the go, you might want to take a look at the Microsoft Axis Zipper Binder. Buy.com has it on sale for $29.99 and there's a $10 rebate bringing the cost down to $19.99.

The bag is designed to fit laptops of up to 15.4" screens, and also comes with lots of other features. The buy.com page doesn't break out a lot of them, so I went to the manufacturer's website to get details:

Features:
- Holds most laptops with up to 15.4” screens
- Outside padded laptop compartment w/ 2 power-ports for in-case use
- Inside accessory panel with pockets for phone, digital accessories, business cards or pens
- Interior document-pocket with Velcro closure
- Removable 1.5” D-ring binder, writing pad included
- Front zipper-pocket for additional storage
- Outside Velcro slip pocket for additional document storage
- Wraparound zipper for added security
- Removable, adjustable shoulder strap
- Product Dimensions: 15.75” x 4” x 13.5”
- Interior Laptop Compartment: 13.75" x 1.0" x 10.75"
- Product Weight: 4.5 lbs
- Material: Lightweight 1680D poly with rubberized vinyl
- Color: Black, with orange accents in the interior

Shipping is free, and the rebate is valid for purchases until May 31st.

If you're interested in checking out the details, click here for the manufacturer's page. To order one from buy.com, click the picture below.

Wireless FM Music Adapter for Your MP3/iPod for $10.00

Some newer upscale cars come with docks built-in for your iPod or MP3 player to be heard right through the speakers. But for the rest of us who don't have that feature, here's a device that lets you listen to your portable audio player through your car's speakers. Buy.com is offering the Sonic Impact Wireless FM Music Adapter reduced from $49.99 to $10.00, with free shipping.

This device plugs into your iPod, MP3, portable CD or tape player and lets you transmit the music through into the FM radio in your car. No wires are needed to connect the device to the radio, it's done wirelessly (2 AAA-batteries are needed). You just select the FM band on which you want the music to play, tune in and voila! The sound even comes out in full stereo.

To check it out and see if this would be handy to listen to your tunes while driving, click Sonic Impact 5026 Wireless FM Music Adapter.

Motorized Coin Sorter Valet with Photo Frame $3.99

Here's one of those little devices that may make life a little easier in the mornings, keeping items handy when you need them. Graveyard.com is offering a motorized coin sorter valet for $3.99.

Its motorized sorter quickly piles loose change into stacks. It has space to place items like keys, cash, glasses, wallet, etc. -- the kinds of things you're always frantically wondering where you let them as you're trying to leave the house. There's also a slot which allows you to place a photo in front for a personal touch.

Shipping on this item is $5.99. It states that some minor assembly is needed and it also requires 3 AA-size batteries which aren't included. But for a handy little item, this price may be worth taking a flyer.

To check it out, click this link.

8GB USB Flash Drive $24.95 After Rebate

If you're looking for a USB flash drive with a higher capacity, buy.com has the Dane-Elec 8GB zMate Pen Drive on sale for $36.95. There's also a $12.00 rebate on purchases until May 26th bringing the net cost down to $24.95. That's less than you'd expect to pay for drives with 4GB.

Shipping is free so that cost doesn't factor in either.

A drive this size would let you carry around a ton of files, videos, pictures, etc.

For computers that run Microsoft Vista, flash drives can also enable a feature that can speed up your system, called ReadyBoost. It allows the USB flash drive to serve as a write cache for your system when it's plugged in to your PC/laptop's USB port. A portion of the space on the flash drive gets allocated for that, so it can use some of the drives memory to boost system performance. For some details and instructions about that, you can read this post from PCWizKid's blog.

So if you want to pick up a small drive with a ton of space for files or maybe to use for ReadyBoost, click the picture.

4-Night Vacations on Grand Cayman $449 with Airfare, or $649 at an All-Inclusive Resort

Looking for a warm getaway? CheapCaribbean has a nice package to Grand Cayman, with 4-night hotel with airfare packages as low as $449. Another option they offer is airfare plus a 4-night stay at an all-inclusive resort (meals and beverages included) from $649.

The specials are based on using a promotional code CAYMAN200 at checkout which saves $100 per person.

Prices with airfare are based on Miami departures. Leaving from New York is $40 additional.

The $449 package is at the Courtyard by Marriott Grand Cayman, and includes a free upgrade to an oceanview room as well as complimentary breakfast. The $649 package (with all meals and beverages) is at the Beach Club Colony Hotel and includes a free snorkel expedition.

The promotional savings are offered if you book by May 28th, for travel between June 1st and November 30th. The hotel prices go up for stays after September 1st.

These prices are based on double occupancy so the savings on the promo are $200 per couple. The price doesn't include the airport/security fees, and also doesn't include transportation between the airport and the hotel (that seemed odd to me so you may want to check on that cost). But based on the prices of airfares and stays at resort or oceanfront hotels, this looks like a nice combination for some fun under the sun.

To see more, click this link. Don't forget that the prices on the site require you to enter the promo code. You can also book this over the phone at 800-915-2322 but the promo code CAYMAN200 must be mentioned at the time of booking.

Disney/Pixar Collector's Editions DVDs $12.99 at Amazon

Pixar has transformed how we see animated movies and has created some memorable characters in conjunction with the creativity of Disney. Right now Amazon.com has collector's editions of great Pixar hits on sale for $12.99. Since some of these special editions retail for $29.99 that's a substantial savings.

If you pick up two,your total qualifies the order for free shipping as well.

Maybe you'd like to add some of these to your collection, or get the collector's version. Or maybe you know that young someone who'd love to get one of these as a gift. Amazon price deductions don't always last too long, so if you're interested you can click on any of the links below to check them out.

Finding Nemo (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)
Toy Story (10th Anniversary Edition)
Toy Story - 10th Anniversary Edition [UMD for PSP]
Toy Story 2 (Two-Disc Special Edition)
Monsters, Inc. (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)
The Incredibles (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)
A Bug's Life (Two-Disc Collector's Edition)

Give a Magazine Subscription to an Active Overseas Serviceman or Servicewoman for $10

I've ordered from Magazines.com before as a way to get subscriptions at a great discount, but this post is about a program that lets you use their good prices to do something nice for someone else.

They have a "Subscription for Soldiers" program that enables you to make a donation of magazine subscriptions to active servicemen and servicewomen stationed overseas. The cost to donate a subscription is just $10.

If you know a specific service member and wish to give them the gift, that's an option available. But for many of us who don't know a particular soldier, marine, sailor or airman but want to make a contribution, this program offers a chance to give a little something as a gesture of thanks.

The program lets servicemen and servicewomen indicate three magazines they'd be interested in receiving. When the company gets your donation, Magazines.com provides the subscription to a service member. It's done anonymously -- they don't get to know the donor and you don't get to know the recipient. It's more of a random act of kindness.

Since this program is not being run by a non-profit agency, the donation isn't tax-deductible so don't do it for that reason. But if you feel like making a gesture that might brighten some days for a young man or young woman serving far from home, this may be worthwhile.

To see the details or to make a donation of a subscription or two, click here.

Virgin America One-Way Fares from $56

With the high cost of fuel driving airlines' fuel surcharges through the roof, it's hard right now to even figure what a good fare is. But Travelocity has announced a sale on Virgin America with some one-way fares as low as $56.

A lot of the lowest fares are clustered in California, and there are some good fares to Las Vegas as well.

The fare prices are valid if booked by May 23rd, and require no advance purchase. Outbound travel must be completed by June 25th.

The fares include the surcharges, but airport/security fees are additional as with all published fare prices.

If you have a trip coming up in the next month, you might want to take a look to see if Virgin America has a special that fits the bill. Click the link below.

One-Way Flights starting at only $56 during Virgin America's Summer Sale - Expires: 5/23/08

Solar Power Charger for Your iPod, Cell Phone, PDA, MP3 or Digital Camera Just $10.00 After $100 Rebate

Update May 26th - Since I posted this, the starting price has dropped from $123.99 to $110.00, making the after-rebate total $10.00.

If you're looking for a new way to keep your small electronics charged up without using AC power, how about solar? Buy.com is offering the Powermonkey eXplorer-Solar Charger for $123.99, with a $100 rebate valid for purchases until June 6th. Shipping is free, making the final net cost just $23.99.

They have it available in blue, yellow or pink. It works with many types of electronic devices that use built-in batteries for recharging (this won't work for cameras where you actually have to insert regular batteries).

The device comes with a new solar-slave, to let users charge wherever and whenever. It's compatible with the majority of mobile phones, PDAs, MP3 players, digital cameras, handheld games and more. You can also use the solar-slave to keep the powermonkey device fully charged so there's power available if your device needs it when there isn't sunlight at the moment.

There are also ways to save a bit more money on this purchase. If you haven't ever bought anything from buy.com, you can apply a $5 off $100 coupon for new customers. And if you haven't used google checkout yet, you can get $10 off your first purchase (you'll see that in the buy.com checkout process).

If you want to take a look at this solar powered means of keeping your electronics charged, click the images below.

McAfee Software - Your Choice of Three Types, All Free After Rebate!

If you use McAfee software to protect your PC or would like to upgrade your protection software, Amazon.com is offering three different levels of McAfee software free after rebate (and in one case even less than free!).

For straight virus protection, they have VirusScan Plus 2008 reduced right now from $39.99 to $19.99, with a $20.00 rebate available for previous VirusScan users or people who use Norton, Computer Associates, Trend Micro, Webroot or comparable protection software. The rebate is valid for purchases made throughout the year. This software is licensed for a single computer user only.

They also have two versions of more comprehensive packages, Total Protection 2008 and Internet Security Suite 2008. Each of these is licensed for up to three users, so if you have multiple computers in your home it can be convenient. Total Protection 2008 is reduced now from $79.99 to $35.00, with a $35.00 upgrade/competitive rebate (similar to the conditions above).

Internet Security Suite ends up getting you back more than you paid. It's reduced now from $69.99 to $26.49 and has a $30.00 rebate, so the net cost is minus $3.51. Yes, you get back more than they charge!

With the 3-user items, the shipping is free since they exceed $25 on sale; the VirusScan is shipped free if you also buy something else and bring the total purchase over $25.

Again, all these products' rebates are for users of McAfee's or some competitor's protection software. But chances are you use one of the systems covered for virus protection, firewall, spam blocking or similar. So if you can pick up a newer version for free or better, why not take advantage?

To check out the various products and see if one meets your needs, click the link(s) below.

McAfee VirusScan Plus 2008
McAfee Total Protection 2008 - 3 User
McAfee Internet Security Suite 2008 - 3 User

Jos. A. Bank 50% Off Sale + Free Shipping with No Minimum

I've posted a couple of times for Jos. A. Bank sales, but their free shipping usually didn't kick in until the order exceeded $175. Now through May 26th, not only do they have 50% off suits, sportcoats, dress pants, polos, shirts and more, but 2-day shipping is free on all orders.

With this shipping offer, even if you find just a couple of items that you'd like to add to your wardrobe, you just pay what you see -- you don't have to see whether added shipping costs makes the deal still worth it.

With Father's Day coming up, it might also be a good place to check out some nice clothes if that's a gift possibility.

I personally haven't ordered suits from them but I think they're considered good quality. I have ordered sweaters when they were on special and was really pleased with the quality.

Even items in their clearance area are valid for free shipping so that may be another spot to look for bargains on some nice quality men's clothing.

To take a look at the sale and take advantage of the free shipping, click this link.

One Potential Source for Hotel Savings... AAA

With travel plans coming up, many people may be looking for a way to save a bit on lodging. Sources for good deals include hotels.com, travelworm and other sites that check for great rates at a variety of places. Many hotel sites also contain best rate guarantees on their home sites. But a couple of times that we've recently had to travel, we have found better rates available at AAA.

If you happen to be a member of AAA, it's worth seeing if this gets you some extra savings.

After we checked some specific hotel possibilities through searching hotels.com or similar sites, we would check those hotel sites directly and often found the same basic rates. But when we checked at AAA.com we found some hotels where hotel rooms were available for even less than "the guaranteed best rate."

Those best-rate guarantees are only valid for rates available to the general public, but since AAA rates are valid for members only they can be even lower. I don't think it's always across-the-board that AAA rates are better, but before you book that room, it's probably worth checking.

On a couple of our trips, the savings ended up being close to 10% off the best prices claimed elsewhere. And those extra dollars saved can add up.

Hey, you get the same rooms anyway... why not use every tool to get it at the best price?

Staples Coupon - $40 Off $300+ Purchase (Excludes Desktop or Laptop Computers)

If you have some substantial purchases coming up at Staples, here's a coupon that's valid till May 25th for $40 off your purchase of $300 or more. The only exclusion is desktop or laptop computers. So items such as printers, scanners, GPS systems, furniture and other fairly big-ticket items would be covered. Or if you're buying something or things in a range that's close to the $300 amount, you can add things like paper, printer ink etc. that you'll eventually be buying anyway.

If you happen to be thinking of some major shopping excursion at Staples, $40 back isn't a bad deal, is it?

Here's the link to the coupon. It's valid in-store, on-line or by phone.

100 Memorex Slim Jewel Cases for CDs or DVDs Free After Rebate

If you're like me, you've been burning DVDs to make back-up copies of your system, pictures, documents and so on. Or maybe you've made copies of photo files onto CDs to give someone as a gift. Having those DVDs/CDs loose can't be good for their long-time readability, so jewel cases to protect them is wise. Right now, Fry's is offering a 100-pack of Memorex Jewel Cases for $15.00, with a $15.00 rebate. Hey' that's free!

You do have to pay for shipping, so the final out-of-pocket isn't free, but it's still a nice deal if you have a lot of loose DVDs or CDs sitting around. The rebate is valid for purchases until May 22nd.

So be good to your back-ups, and be gentle with your wallet at the same time.

Here's the link.

Laptop on Sale at Office Depot Next Week for $329.99 After Rebate

If you're looking for a laptop, whether as a spare, for a student, or if you're using a PC that's a few years old, there's a deal next week that may be worth checking out. Starting Sunday May 18th, Office Depot will be offering the Compaq Presario Notebook Computer with Intel® Pentium® dual-core Mobile processor T2370 for $329.99 after rebate. That's more than half off the original price of $679.99 ($350 total off).

This has to be ordered in the store, you can't get it on-line. They then ship you the PC with any configuration upgrades you might want (see below). The price in the store will be $509.99 and there are $180 Mail-In Savings.

They have 6,000 of these units available nationwide, so they may not last long. If you're interested, the sooner you can get to your Office Depot the better your chance of getting it.

The configuration at this price is:
• 1GB DDR2 memory
• 80GB hard drive
• 15.4" Brightview Widescreen
• Reads and writes dual layer DVDs & CDs
• Integrated 802.11b/g wireless LAN
Model C700T, Configuration Code 66514876

If you want to upgrade the system, here are some choices and the prices:
Windows Vista® Home Premium with Service Pack 1, add $35.00
160GB Hard Drive, add $45.00
2GB DDR2 System Memory, add $65.00

Again, this offer isn't valid till Sunday, but if you're in the market, some advance notice might help.

Here's the link for the offer details.

PetSmart Coupons: $15 Off $50, $10 Off $40, $5 Off $25

If you have a pet, you can save a bit at PetSmart with coupons that are valid through Sunday, May 18th. They offer $15 off if you make a purchase of $50 or more, $10 off if your purchase is over $40, and $5 if you buy more than $25.

The coupons are valid at all PetSmart locations in the U.S. and Canada, and cover all purchases except gift cards, services and PetHospital.

So if you'd like to pick up an extra treat for your faithful friend, you don't have to tell him or her that you saved money doing it!

Here's the link to printable coupons.

2GB Memory Stick $9.34

Update July 11th -- the price is now at $9.34 (or $8.17 each if you order 3)

Update June 26th -- the price is now $9.96 (or $8.73 apiece if you order 3)

Update June 17th -- the price is now $10.16 (or $8.91 each if you order 3)

Update June 9th -- the price is now down to $10.73 with free shipping (or $9.43 apiece if you order 3)

Update May 21st -- the price is now at $11.12 with free shipping.

When it comes to memory cards, I've posted a few deals about SD cards and some Compact Flash, but for those devices that use Memory Stick cards, here's a deal: DealExtreme is offering a 2GB MagicGate Memory Stick Pro Duo Memory Card for $11.49. Shipping is free (worldwide!), so that's the bottom-line price you pay.

If by chance you need to pick up a few of these, the price drops to $10.12 apiece if you order three.

Here's the link.

Amazon.com Toy Sale - Lots of Items Up to 60% Off

Amazon.com has a toy sale with many items up to 60% Off. They have lots of categories of toys, from Action Figures to Arts & Crafts; from Preschool, Plush and Dolls to Games and Role Play.

There are so many toys in each category it's hard to pick out a few to which to link. Rather, I created links to each type of category to maybe make your search a bit easier.

Amazon Pre-School and Plush up to 60% Off
Amazon Arts & Crafts and Outdoors Up to 60% Off
Amazon Dolls Up to 60% Off
Amazon Action Figures Up to 60% Off
Amazon Games Up to 60% Off
Amazon Hobby and Role-Play Up to 60% Off

There are really a wide assortment of toys available, with all sorts of popular name brands like Sponge-Bob, Hannah Montana, Bratz, Madame Alexander, Lego Bionicle, Transformers, Spider-Man 3,... They have toys from Fisher Price, LeapFrog, Wild Planet and more... Fun stuff, educational stuff, it runs the gamut.

Amazon sales don't always last long, so if you have youngsters for whom you might like to get some toys, you may want to take a look.

Save a Bit on a Big Vacation to Disneyland

If you're planning a family vacation to Disneyland, United Vacations has a promotional code that entitles you to up to $300 off the cost of the package.

This deal is meant for a fairly substantial Disney vacation, though. But depending on the size of your family, the location from where you're traveling and the length of stay, the cost of a vacation package might entitle you to some money back.

The $300 savings is for vacations totaling over $5500 between airfares and Disney resort. For a vacation between $3500 and $5499 the savings are $200. Vacations between $200 and $3499 get a $100 credit, and vacations between $1200 and $1999 get $50 savings.

But if you were planning to go to Disneyland this summer anyway, family packages can be pretty substantial so these amounts might be what you'd be planning to pay. And this might be a chance to save at least a little bit.

To get the savings, use promotion code SPRING. You have to book these packages by May 20th and complete your travel by September 30th. Booking on-line also gets you 1000 bonus miles in United's frequent flyer plan.

For details, click Disneyland® Resort - Up to $300 on your Disney Vacation.

Three-Way Charger for Ipods, Cell Phones for $10.00

We've all gotten more and more dependent on carrying around electronic devices that need to stay charged. Here's one charger at a nice sale price that can help in a few ways. Buy.com is offering the Electronic Metro Universal Auto Triple Charger on sale reduced from $39.98 to just $10.00. And shipping for the item is free.

This charger allows you to charge your iPod, or your Nokia, Sony Ericsson or Sidekick cell phone from any of three sources: your car, a wall socket or even two 9-volt batteries. That way it can be a single charger to carry along and be helpful whatever the situation.

It even comes with a handy travel pouch to keep all the parts handy in your travels.

Click Electronic Metro Universal Auto Triple Charger to check it out.

Restaurant.com Promotion Code for 50% Off ($25 dining certificate for $5)

If you've seen my posts about restaurant.com, you know the drill. If you don't know how restaurant.com works, it's a nice selection of restaurants across the country where you can buy a certificate for $25 off your dining bill for just $10. Every so often, they have promotional codes to let you pay even less for the certificates.

The certificates do come with some restrictions which vary by restaurant (minimum number of diners, entrees, minimum bill) but they're usually easily achievable and you can get a nice dining experience for a lot less out of your pocket.

Right now till May 18th, there is a promo code CUISINE that gets you a $25 certificate for just $5 (or a $10 lunchtime certificate at some restaurants for just $1.50). Don't forget to hit the 'apply' button when you enter the certificate so that it's calculated in your order.

To visit restaurant.com, click here.

Roundtrip to Bali from New York $965; From San Francisco or Los Angeles $865 -- Plus Free Hong Kong Stopover

Cathay Pacific has announced some wonderful airfares to Bali from New York, San Francisco or Los Angeles. Fares are as low as $865 roundtrip from the West Coast and as low as $965 from New York (plus security/airport fees).

I did a sample search from New York to Bali, I got back an airfare of $808 (plus the fuel surcharge and the fees). So the $965 special includes the fuel surcharges. My final total was $1058.88 with all the taxes/fees).

The special fare period is for departures from September 1st through November 30th. Flights go through Hong Kong and you can add a free stopover there as well.

The site appears to only let you search for specific dates, not a range of dates, so you may have to search a bit to find return dates that have flights available. But if Bali is one of your dream destinations, it might be worth your time to check a few dates and maybe make those dreams come true.

To visit Cathay Pacific, click here.

Savings on Tony-Nominated Broadway Shows - Up to 50% Off

The Tony nominations are out, and that can give you some ideas on Broadway shows worth seeing. But it's easier to see them if you can get discounts off the regular price of tickets. Travelzoo has compiled a list of offers for many Tony-nominated shows (as well as several past Tony winners). Discounts are as high as half off the regular price.

Among the Tony-nominated plays on special:
August: Osage County
Passing Strange
Sunday in the Park with George
Cry-Baby
A Catered Affair

They also have offers for other past Tony winners, such as Hairspray, Spring Awakening, Chicago, A Chorus Line and Spamalot.

The various shows have different dates with sale tickets and different expirations by which you need to order, so if you want to see if any other these Broadway shows are for you, click this link.

500 Posts -- It's Time for Some Feedback...

This is the 500th post since I started the blog last June -- time for some feedback about what everyone likes, or doesn't, so the blog can be fine-tuned.

Please take a moment to post a comment about the blog. You can let me know:

- Has it helped you save some money?
- What's been your favorite deal or your favorite topic?
- Do you prefer the posts about deals or ones about buying strategies/advice?
- What kinds of items would you like to see more of?
- What things would you like me to change about the blog?
- Do you find interesting things in the ads placed on the page?
- Would you share my blog with other people to increase readership?

To post your thoughts, just click on the 'comments' link at the bottom of this post (right beneath 'Posted by John R, King of Finding a Good Deal').

Thanks for taking the time!

Like to Go Camping? Boulder Creek Tent $19.99 with Free Shipping

For those of you who like to spend summer nights in the great outdoors, Bass Pro Shops is offering a nice dome tent by Boulder Creek for just $19.99. They're including free shipping as well.

The price is valid till the end of June or while supplies last, and there's a limit of one per customer.

The tent has a floor area of 7'x7' and a center height of 50". It weighs just over six pounds so it should be handy to bring along on trips. The photo states that it sleeps 3-4 people... I guess it depends on the size of the people and how cozy you want to be.

To see the tent and maybe pick one up, click here.

Free Tickets (Plus Small Service Charge) to Arena Football at Nassau Coliseum, Long Island

If you're a fan of Arena Football (or might want to check it out) and live in Long Island or Queens, this one might be of interest. The New York Dragons are offering free tickets to three upcoming games!

The seats are fairly high up in the stands, but if you want to go without breaking the bank, this is your chance.

There is a $1.25 service charge per ticket so they don't end up totally free, but it's still a great bottom-line price.

The games are:
Dragons vs. the Georgia Force on May 18th, against the New Orleans Voodoo on June 7th, or against Jon Bon Jovi's Philadelphia Soul on June 22nd.

Just click on the links below and search for the number of tickets desired using the Paperfast Offer category (there's a limit of eight tickets).

May 18
June 7
June 22

Free Museum Admissions for Bank of America Cardholders

Bank of America has a nice promotion for cardholders, entitling them to free admission to over 70 museums nationwide on the first weekend of every month. There are a wide variety of institutions on the list, in 18 states. Considering the regular admission charges for many museums, this can turn out to be a very nice deal.

Among some highlights:
New York
- The Bronx Zoo
- The New York Aquarium
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Philadelphia
- Philadelphia Museum of Art
- National Constitution Center
San Jose
- San Jose Museum of Art
- Tech Museum of Innovation
San Francisco
- Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
- de Young Museum
Boston
- Museum of Fine Arts
Jersey City
- Liberty Science Center

That's just a sampling of the locations available. They include the following states: AZ, CA, CT, DE, FL, GA, IL, ME, MD, MA, MI, NJ, NY, NC, PA, RI, TX, and WA.

If you have a Bank of America credit card or ATM card, you get into these institutions free on the first Saturday and Sunday of the month by showing your card and photo ID. The free admission offer is limited to the cardholder, and special events (i.e. ticketed shows) are excluded.

To see all the available museums and all program details, here's the link.

Colibri 4-in-1 Data Pen for $1.99 Plus Shipping

If you're looking for a handy writing instrument by a well-regarded maker, the Colibri 4-in-1 data pen is on sale at graveyardmall.com. It was $24.99 but is marked down now to $1.99.

The pen is pewter color and has a variety of uses built in: a black pen for jotting quick notes, a red pen for editing, a mechanical pencil for non-permanent writing, and a white-tipped stylus for your PDA or Palm phone. It's a handy size: 5 1/4 inches by 3/8 inch with a slightly oversized rubber grip for comfort.

Shipping is $5.99, so it's a better deal if you pick up a couple at this price.

Here's the link.

Free Scoop of Häagen-Dazs Vanilla Honey Bee This Evening (May 13)

If you have a Häagen-Dazs shop nearby, you might want to stop by today (May 13) between 4pm and 8pm. They'll be giving away free scoops of a new flavor ice cream, Vanilla Honey Bee.

To find a participating shop, you can click this link.

A tasty deal is always nice, isn't it?

Free Dunkin' Donuts Iced Coffee Day: Thursday, May 15th

Thursday, May 15th, participating Dunkin' Donuts shops are offering a nice refresher for the coming warm weather -- a free 16 oz. iced coffee. The free beverages will be available from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.

There's a limit of one per person per visit. To find a participating Dunkin' Donuts shop near you, click this link.

Bottoms up!

Kingston 2GB MicroSD Card $7.49

With memory cards for devices getting smaller, there may be an increasing need for microSD cards down the line -- right now they're also useful thanks to adapters that fit them into standard SD devices. So getting a 2GB microSD card for $7.49 is a very nice deal.

PC Warehouse is currently offering the Kingston 2GB microSD card (with adapter) for $12.49. During checkout apply this coupon code: $5off$10. That takes another $5.00 off, making the final total $7.49. Shipping is free, making it an even better bargain.

What's nice about microSD cards is that they usually come with adapters that are the size of full SD cards. That makes them usable in the many devices you might have that require full-size SD cards. So even if you don't yet have a device that needs microSD it's useful now and will stay useful in the future.

To take a look and buy one, here's the link.

Free Broiler Pan from Whirlpool

Whirlpool currently has a promo code that entitles you to receive a free broiler pan. Yes, free! The pan sells on their site for $19.99, and the code gets you $19.99 off. No other item needs to be purchased with the order.

The pan helps drains juices to prevent splatter and smoke with its grid design. The porcelain grey pan allows easy clean up. It's a useful cook's tool and it's yours for free when you apply the promo code BROIL2A at the third step of checkout. (Once you enter the code and click apply you can see the discount applied before you submit the order.)

There may be shipping charges, although at the end of my order process the shipping cost had also dropped to zero.

The code may only be valid for a short time, so if you're interested in checking it out, click this link.

Southwest Airlines $29 Short-Haul Flights

Southwest Airlines has announced a list of short-haul flights for which they'll charge just $29 for a one-way ticket. Now, these won't get you cross country or anything, but they might make a short trip more affordable.

Here's a list of some city pairs:
Austin - Houston
Birmingham - Nashville
Birmingham - New Orleans
Boise - Spokane
Chicago - Indianapolis
Corpus Christi - Houston
Dallas - Tulsa
Houston - San Antonio
Jacksonville - Tampa Bay

Fares are valid for travel through October 30th, require 21-day advance purchase, and security/airport fees are additional.

To see the fares, all restrictions and book flights, here's the link.

School Specialty Publishing - Coupon Code for $10 Off a $10+ Purchase and Free Shipping

If you have young children and want to help their learning, or if you work in schools and are looking for some new resources, how about a code that lets you save $10 on a purchase totalling over $10? School Specialty Publishing features books and other items on all sorts of topics, with fun and creative ways to spur learning. Right now, if you enter the code GREENC10, they deduct $10 off your order total if your order is $10 or more, and shipping becomes free.

Not sure how long this coupon code is valid.

They have over 4,000 selections on the site, with books broken down by age or grade ranges so you can select the items most appropriate for your children. They have lots of ways to search, whether by Best Sellers, Award Winners, State Standards, Themes, Clearance or more. It's not just books, either: they have posters, DVDs and many other resource tools to help.

To take a look at the site, click here.

Free Disney Dining Plan with 5 Night/6 Day Packages at Walt Disney World

If you have any plans to take your family on a Disney World vacation late this summer, here's an offer to check out: Disney is offering its Disney Dining Plan for free with five-night vacations between August 24th and September 20th. You have until June 22nd to book the packages, which include hotel and 6-day theme park tickets -- but since the various resorts might book up, earlier is better.

The Disney Dining Plan entitles every family member to one quick-service meal, one snack and one meal at a table-service restaurant per night.

It's available with a variety of the Disney resorts, so you can choose the type of accommodations that fit your travel style and your budget. Their promo indicates it can average as low as $57 per person per night (based on a family of four).

If Disney may be in the plans, check out more at this link.

Free Sample of Dunkin' Donuts Coffee

Freebies are nice... especially when they're tasty. You can sign up to receive a free sample of Dunkin' Donuts Original Blend coffee. They'll send you a 1.1 oz. pouch of coffee if you register on-line.

Hey, it may not be a ton of coffee, but it'll make a few cups, so why not take advantage?

To sign up to receive your free sample, click here.

Not Too Late for Mother's Day -- Free E-Cards with Your Photos Inside

Mother's Day is almost here, and if you haven't mailed something yet, it won't get there in time. But you can still send something that will brighten Mom's or Grandma's smile on her special day... an e-card that's got a more personal feel.

Wouldn't it be nice to personalize your greetings with your own photos? Wouldn't Grandma like to see the pictures of her grandchildren? Wouldn't Mom love to see your beaming face? You can send photo e-cards for free with Smilebox!

To see how, click below.

Make a free ecard - it's easy!

Fram Air Hog Filters - Many Free or Better After Rebate

Here's a two-for-one savings possibility: get a new air filter for your car to improve performance and save on gas (is that a big savings nowadays or what?); AND get a $20 rebate that can make the filter free or even better than free -- the rebate can be more than the price you paid in the first place!

Amazon.com has a large selection of different Fram Air Hog filters that fit many models/makes of cars. Many are on sale for $20 or less, and have a $20 rebate available for purchases made by December 26th.

There are too many to list in a single blog post, but you can check at Amazon or at Fram for the air filter that fits your vehicle.

Here's the link to amazon's selection of Air Hog Filters.

Hey, if you can pick up a rebate that's more than the cost of the item, how can you complain?

Spirit Airlines $18 Roundtrips Still Alive May 10th

A couple of days ago I posted about Spirit Airlines having some fares of $9 each way on specific dates. I received an e-mail that they have another promotion going on through 11:59 pm tonight with many of those fares still active. They also have fares of $19 and $29 for other destinations.

Airport/security fees are additional, but the fares are real bargains if the dates work for you.

Samples are:
$9 Atlantic City to Myrtle Beach 6/6, 6/11, 6/13, 6/14
$9 Myrtle Beach to Atlantic City 6/3, 6/4, 6/13, 6/16, 6/17

$9 Columbia SC to Fort Lauderdale 5/27, 5/30, 6/14
$9 Fort Lauderdale to Columbia SC 5/24, 5/29, 6/3, 6/9, 6/10

They have specials involving New York to/from Detroit or Myrtle Beach; Islip to/from Fort Lauderdale; San Antonio to/from Fort Lauderdale; and too many more to try to list.

Here's the link for this current sale, but hurry -- it's till midnight tonight.

For Young Drummers: Top-Notch Drum Set 75% Off

If you have a child who's showing musical talent and wants to explore drums, here is a high-caliber set of Junior drums that may help them develop their talent. This is not some toy set but really quality musical instruments. Woodwind Brasswind is offering the 5-piece Verve Junior Drum Set at 75% off its starting price of $429.50, making it just $103.99. Shipping is free, making it an even nicer deal.

It's called a 5-piece set, but that doesn't mean there are just five pieces... that refers to the number of drums. The set is much more complete. It features:

16"x14" Bass Drum
13"x12" Floor Tom
12"x5" Snare Drum
10"x6" Tom Tom
8"x6" Tom Tom
12" Crash/Ride Cymbal
Pair of 10" Hi-Hat cymbals
1 Pair of Maple Jr Drum Sticks
Cymbal Stand, Hi-Hat Stand, Snare Stand
Bass Drum Pedal
Drum Throne

The customer reviews on the site seem to make this a winner of a children's drum set. So if you think you may have a young Ringo in your midst, click this link to see more.

40% Off A&E's Romance Collection -- 8 Classics for $59.97

If you enjoy watching A&E Channel's wonderful presentations of the great classic romances, here's a chance to own a nice collection at 40% off the regular price. They have packaged eight mini-series and movies into a 14-DVD set, and until May 14th the price is cut from $99.95 to $59.97. Looks like it could make a nice gift for that someone special.

The discs feature the original, complete versions of eight acclaimed productions, with performances by Colin Firth, Kate Beckinsale, Jonathan Pryce, and many more. These lavish presentations of literature's classics transport us to amazing worlds: the chivalrous pomp of Ivanhoe, the bodice-ripping adventure of Tom Jones, the intimate side of monarchy in Victoria and Albert, and many more. The set features over 30 hours of programming — plus DVD extras.

The sleek Romance Collection Special Edition includes:
Pride and Prejudice
Emma
Jane Eyre
Ivanhoe
Tom Jones
The Scarlet Pimpernel
Lorna Doone
Victoria and Albert

To check out this collection of great romances, click here.

Free 1-Year Subscription to PC Magazine

If you like keeping up with the latest technology innovations, you might be interested in a subscription to PC Magazine. If the subscription is free, that makes it all that much easier, right?
Currently, Trade Publications is offering a free 1-year subscription. The newsstand price for a year would be $83.88 and the regular price for an annual subscription would be $24.97, so this is quite a value.

PC Magazine provides expert buying advice across a wide range of business, productivity and consumer electronics, and solutions for getting the most out of consumer and business technology. So if you want to stay up-to-date, there's a lot of helpful information inside.

To qualify for a free subscription, use this link.

United Airlines Fare Sale - From $37 Each Way (SF to Las Vegas), Many Other Cities on Sale

United Airlines has announced a late Spring airfare sale, with prices as low as $37 each way. These fares must be booked by May 9th and travel must be completed by June 18th.

Sample fares (each way) include:
San Francisco - Las Vegas $37
Chicago - Pittsburgh $50
Albuquerque - Denver $42
Los Angeles - San Francisco $44
Phoenix - Los Angeles $48
New York - Washington Dulles $58

The prices do not include airport/security fees, and have some other restrictions like a Saturday-night stay. But if you have a reason for a quick trip, these prices may make it easier.

Check out this link for a more complete listing and all the details.

Looking for an MP3 Player? Creative One-Day Sale on Zen, Stone and Other Refurbished Players

If you'd like to get a small MP3 player, Creative has an interesting product line, with units such as the Zen and the Stone that pack a lot of capacity into a small, user-friendly interface. Today only, they have a "recession-buster" sale, with deep discounts on refurbished units, along with free shipping.

You can get a refurbished 2GB Zen V Plus, which can do video, pictures and songs, record your voice, hook up with Outlook and more for $24.99, saving you $45 off the original price.

A smaller 1GB Zen V which can do pictures and music is on sale for $19.99.

They also have the refurbished 1GB Zen Stone player for just 13.99 (originally $34.99).

These units are still backed by a limited warranty from the company.

If you'd like to take a look and see if these prices are worth taking the plunge, click here.

Highly Recommended: "The 39 Steps" on Broadway - Tickets Still Available at 60% Off

Update November 2nd: I just checked the Box Office link and the deal is still available. If you're in for a Broadway treat, I highly recommend this show -- particularly if you can see the Hitchcock movie beforehand. If you want a great treat, why not pair this up with the "Young Frankenstein" special offer that's also available right now and see two great shows for less than the price you'd normally pay for one?

Update May 10th: If you want to see the old movie before seeing the Broadway comedy, it's being shown on Turner Classics Monday May 12th at 8pm Eastern.

Back in March I posted about a great deal on Broadway tickets to "The 39 Steps." They were offering 39 tickets at each performance for just $39 apiece. Considering that tickets usually are $98.50, this was quite a savings. The reason I'm posting this again is to recommend the show. I went to see it last weekend and had a ball -- so I wanted to recommend the deal if you can take advantage.

I just checked the site, and you can still find tickets at the $39 rate -- for example, Saturday night May 24th they have $39 seats available in Row N, Center Orchestra. To search for $39 seats, click this link.

Service fees are added to the cost of the tickets as with any of the online ticketing systems.

The show was a hoot. I strongly recommend seeing the Alfred Hitchcock movie before you go. You'll get the references, appreciate the effects and the jokes.

It's billed as a Monty Python meets Hitchcock and the humor is equaled by the precision of the performances, the effects with lighting, fog, the illusion of a moving train, moving doors etc. There are a total of four actors who play all the characters from the film. Only the protagonist plays the same character throughout the play; one actress plays the three women seen throughout the film and the other two actors find ways to play everyone else. Seeing two actors playing all four characters in a scene was a riot.

So if you're in New York and looking for a fun event, I really suggest this one. The show was a lot of fun, and being able to see it at this price was a bargain.

They also have a second link for other discount seats at $49 or $59 (see my previous post), but if you can score the $39 seats, I think that's the best deal.

Here's a link to my earlier post.

Spirit Airlines $18 Roundtrips! Atlantic City & Myrtle Beach, New York & Detroit, Columbia SC & Fort Lauderdale - Other Low Fares Too

The latest Spirit promotion has been announced, and they have some dates where you can get a roundtrip for $18.00. Among the city pairs which have dates available are Atlantic City and Myrtle Beach; New York and Detroit; Atlanta and Orlando; and Columbia SC and Fort Lauderdale. The fares don't include airport/security fees but the final total even with those fees would still be a bargain.

They also have some other great fares, such as $19 each way between Atlantic City and Orlando; Islip and Fort Lauderdale; and Washington and Fort Lauderdale.

Most of the dates are during May, and some extend into dates during June. There are so many it would be a long list here, so rather than take a long time posting, I'll skip that part and get the blog updated.

The sale is valid until 11:59 pm May 7th, but the seats are sure to go, so if you can work out any travel plans on those dates, it might be a great way to start a vacation at a bargain.

Here's the link to all the sales. Good luck!

7" Digital Photo Frame $49.99 After Rebate

If you're looking for one of those digital photo frames to display slide shows of your favorite pictures, here's a nice price after rebate. Buy.com is offering the Gear Head 7" Digital Photo Frame for $74.99, along with a $25.00 rebate for purchases until May 11th. That brings the final cost down to $49.99 with free shipping part of the deal.

This frame has a bit of style, with rounded corners. It can be positioned vertically or horizontally, and has a remote control as well. It takes a variety of memory cards but also includes a USB connection and cord for direct connection to your PC.

To take a look and see if it's for you, click the picture.