Seek out similar holiday markets in your area to find last-minute gifts.
12/4/15
Holiday Markets
Seek out similar holiday markets in your area to find last-minute gifts.
11/10/15
Free Sandwich Deals
Even if you're not "Lovin' It" McDonald's latest promo proves hard to ignore. Download the app to receive virtual coupons, including one for a free sandwich. That deal might not appear instantly. Mine came over a month after sign up: http://bit.ly/1WM35hF.
In addition to #WakeUpWednesdays, which offers a free hot or iced coffee of any size, Cosi will give New Yorkers a free sandwich on Fridays from 11 am to close until 11/20. Sign up for the coupon here: http://bit.ly/1NZmqdd. If you don't live in NYC, never fear, Cosi's eclub sends offers directly to your inbox, so check that out!
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In addition to #WakeUpWednesdays, which offers a free hot or iced coffee of any size, Cosi will give New Yorkers a free sandwich on Fridays from 11 am to close until 11/20. Sign up for the coupon here: http://bit.ly/1NZmqdd. If you don't live in NYC, never fear, Cosi's eclub sends offers directly to your inbox, so check that out!
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10/6/15
Free + Cheap Coffee Deals
Need to perk up? Plenty of nationwide shops offer coffee deals and steals that'll keep you caffeinated without draining your budget! Here's a sampling:
Dunkin' Donuts: Live in a city that hosts an NFL team? Download the DD Perks app to score $.25 medium hot or iced coffee the day after your team wins. Plus, Dunkin' will throw in a free drink at sign up and on your birthday and every time you reach 200 points
7-Eleven: Some swear 7-Eleven has stellar coffee. Judge the retailer for free from Oct. 12 - Oct. 18. During Free Coffee Week, any size hot coffee is free for 7Rewards members who "pay" with the app. And, if you're actually a fan, pay for your coffee and fountain drinks with the app since every 7th cup is free.
Pret a Manger: Known for its menu of all-natural entrees, Pret also sells organic coffee for about 1.75 a cup. If you like yours hot grab a free self-serve refill.
Cosi: This upscale casual dining spot hosts #WakeUpWednesdays until Dec. 30. Choose hot or iced coffee. No size restrictions apply.
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Dunkin' Donuts: Live in a city that hosts an NFL team? Download the DD Perks app to score $.25 medium hot or iced coffee the day after your team wins. Plus, Dunkin' will throw in a free drink at sign up and on your birthday and every time you reach 200 points
7-Eleven: Some swear 7-Eleven has stellar coffee. Judge the retailer for free from Oct. 12 - Oct. 18. During Free Coffee Week, any size hot coffee is free for 7Rewards members who "pay" with the app. And, if you're actually a fan, pay for your coffee and fountain drinks with the app since every 7th cup is free.
Pret a Manger: Known for its menu of all-natural entrees, Pret also sells organic coffee for about 1.75 a cup. If you like yours hot grab a free self-serve refill.
Cosi: This upscale casual dining spot hosts #WakeUpWednesdays until Dec. 30. Choose hot or iced coffee. No size restrictions apply.
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9/19/15
Whole Foods Customer Appreciation Month
There's still time to feel the customer love at Whole Foods' Love Fest. Besides 25 cent coffee all month, the chain also offers weekly specials like 80 cent yogurt, marked down bakery treats, and soap for a buck.Check out WholeFoods.com for current deals.
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8/20/15
"Amazonia" Book Review
Science fiction and fantasy are book genres I haven’t delved in. Surprising since I religiously tuned into TV shows revolving around other
worldly plot lines. I happened upon a paperback copy of Amazonia in a recycling bin. It appeared in mint condition, almost unread. The cover, green and gold with cutouts showing menacing figures, grabbed my attention.
James Rollins’ story lagged initially. I attribute the disconnect in part to trying to reconcile multiple character viewpoints and settings.
Generally, I read novels with fewer main characters. Each act began with a page listing scientific aspects of a particular botanical species. This info tied back to themes involving the rainforest’s hidden, healing properties.
Amazonia held my interest as I read on, particularly when a group of core characters arrived in the Amazon and faced attack upon attack. The rainforest evolved as a setting and a character. It ultimately emerged as a nemesis and hero all in one. If you appreciate unpredictability, you’ll appreciate Amazonia’s smart and suspenseful plot.
Amazonia held my interest as I read on, particularly when a group of core characters arrived in the Amazon and faced attack upon attack. The rainforest evolved as a setting and a character. It ultimately emerged as a nemesis and hero all in one. If you appreciate unpredictability, you’ll appreciate Amazonia’s smart and suspenseful plot.
8/6/15
Free Summer Jams, Brooklyn
Want to get your groove on without going broke? Brooklyn serves up free, family friendly summertime events:
The Archway under the Manhattan Bridge offers a prime backdrop for art and culture. Thursdays through October, Dumbo's Live at the Archway series hosts DJs and musicians from an array of genres. Hours vary within the 5 - 9 PM time range. http://bit.ly/1JOeU4o
The Fort Greene Jazz Festival returns Saturday September 12th from 3 - 7 PM. Headlined by founder Eric Frazier, tunes flow each July too. And it raises awareness for the park's conservancy. Guest entertainers include dancers, drummers and solo vocalists.
Fort Greene Park, Brooklyn. http://www.fortgreenepark.org/events.html
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The Archway under the Manhattan Bridge offers a prime backdrop for art and culture. Thursdays through October, Dumbo's Live at the Archway series hosts DJs and musicians from an array of genres. Hours vary within the 5 - 9 PM time range. http://bit.ly/1JOeU4o
The Fort Greene Jazz Festival returns Saturday September 12th from 3 - 7 PM. Headlined by founder Eric Frazier, tunes flow each July too. And it raises awareness for the park's conservancy. Guest entertainers include dancers, drummers and solo vocalists.
Fort Greene Park, Brooklyn. http://www.fortgreenepark.org/events.html
On summer Sundays, the Soul Summit Music Festival hits Fort Greene Park. DJs spinning house tunes, dancers, vendors of food and fashion all make this natural setting come even more alive! Fest lasts from 3 - 8 PM. http://soulsummitmusic.com/the-love-of-music/
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7/10/15
Fleming's Steakhouse, Atlanta
If the obligatory pre-meal bread offering draws you in the main course better rock, right? Surprisingly scrumptious loaves topped with cheese come with two delectable spreads and threaten to fill tummies before the main event.
Be bold and order prime rib, like my sis. Or strategically choose a small plate, like me, to save room for dessert. From French onion soup to braised short ribs to carrot cake, Fleming's will not disappoint.
Despite being a chain, the customer love is evident. Fleming's even rewards diners with birthday and anniversary treats. Check out FlemingsSteakhouse.com to find a location nearby.
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Be bold and order prime rib, like my sis. Or strategically choose a small plate, like me, to save room for dessert. From French onion soup to braised short ribs to carrot cake, Fleming's will not disappoint.Despite being a chain, the customer love is evident. Fleming's even rewards diners with birthday and anniversary treats. Check out FlemingsSteakhouse.com to find a location nearby.
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7/3/15
Yahoo! Live
Walk this way with Aerosmith. Party with Prince. Catch your favorite TV characters contemplating plot twists.
Into sports or fashion? Yahoo! Live has amazing content for everyone. Visit https://screen.yahoo.com/live/ to view upcoming dates or past shows.
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6/12/15
Salami Salad
This salad uses my Citrus Marinade as a dressing. Both items are quick and easy to prepare. Even though the cheese is in the meat, it still shines through. Plus, not purchasing the asiago and salami separately saves dough!
You'll need approximately:
- 6 oz log of all-natural, cured salami with asiago cheese
- 1 large cucumber
- 2 large purple carrots, including tops
- 1 cup of marinated kalamata olives
- citrus marinade
.
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5/22/15
Kids Bowl Free at AMF!!!!!!!
AMF Bowling Co. offers a splendid option. Kids under 15 can bowl at no cost (or cheaply at some locations).
This deal requires registration.
Check out https://bowlsummergames.com/.
Ends 9/7/15.
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5/9/15
Mae's Bakery, Atlanta
Before looking into the bakery case at Mae's arm yourself with the realization that you can't (or shouldn't) binge on everything in it. Cupcakes, cookies and a bevy of treats will tempt your resolve!
Try a whoopie pie. The Mae's variety features shortcakes stuffed with luscious cream. Oh, and the coffee is great too!
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4/11/15
Panera Bread Company Freebies, Nationwide
3/29/15
DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, Nationwide
Spring is upon us. Time to perk up our wardrobes! Why not start with shoes? Previously I avoided DSW because its prices pierced the high end of my budgeting limitations. Then I discovered tactics for shopping there without going broke.
Step 1: Join DSW Rewards. This portal to savings ensures you'll receive coupons (usually $10 off) or bonus items, like tote bags. Step 2: Scout clearance racks. They often contain styles almost identical to those available in regular sections.
Don't let the name fool you, this shoe warehouse also sells accessories including purses and scarves. By combining both methods I scored a pair of in-season snow boots for $30, bedroom slippers for $1.99, and a leather wallet that doubles as a phone case for .49 cents.
Check out your nearest DSW. The deals just might surprise you too!
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Step 1: Join DSW Rewards. This portal to savings ensures you'll receive coupons (usually $10 off) or bonus items, like tote bags. Step 2: Scout clearance racks. They often contain styles almost identical to those available in regular sections.
Don't let the name fool you, this shoe warehouse also sells accessories including purses and scarves. By combining both methods I scored a pair of in-season snow boots for $30, bedroom slippers for $1.99, and a leather wallet that doubles as a phone case for .49 cents.
Check out your nearest DSW. The deals just might surprise you too!
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3/22/15
Los Tacos, Manhattan
A plethora of eateries exist within Chelsea Market. Without much info on any of them and in dire need of nutrition, I chose the one with the freshest looking food. Yes, I stalked some strangers' plates.
Los Tacos, reminiscent of a south-of-the-border roadside stand, had a line much longer than its competition. A sure sign of greatness. Right?
Going against that instinctual voice in my head, I bypassed the pork spinning on a rotisserie and opted for a carne asada tostada. What an error! The effort required to chew the meat detracted from the flawless flavors of the tostada, avocado, and salsa. My mouth definitely underwent an aerobic workout.
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Going against that instinctual voice in my head, I bypassed the pork spinning on a rotisserie and opted for a carne asada tostada. What an error! The effort required to chew the meat detracted from the flawless flavors of the tostada, avocado, and salsa. My mouth definitely underwent an aerobic workout.
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3/14/15
Free Google Play Song and Album Downloads
3/7/15
Samantha's Southern Cooking, Brooklyn
As I write this post, I'm still hungry. Having skipped breakfast and lunch, I needed a hearty dinner asap. Samantha's Southern Cooking won out over the competition because it was near my last errand and I had a 50% off deal. Clue number one that my meal might disappoint: a tiny crumb floating in my water glass. I pushed it aside. I planned on drinking my bottled water anyway. Clue number two, two guests told the waiter they did not enjoy whatever was in their bowls. Although unable to hear the details, their grimaces said it all. Hhmmm. Stay or go? Those same diners moved on to dessert and cleaned their plates. I decided to stay.
My fried pork chop sandwich included two huge portions of meat, way too much for the meager bun. A smarter choice would've been one portion cut in half to cut down on the thickness. After picking some of the char off of one slice of bread, I realized the other piece was practically burnt instead of toasted. Even worse, the meat was overcooked and tough. Cutting it with my fork and eating smaller pieces did not improve matters much.
I contemplated mentioning my disdain to the servers. Both glanced at me, but neither stopped by my table. The twice-baked macaroni provided a distraction. Peppery with undertones of mustard, it had just enough cheese and plenty of flavor. Now back to the sandwich.
The male server offered a to-go box. I pointed out the deficiencies in my entree. He apologized and said he would speak to his manager. She came over after helping other guests and indirectly asked what was going on. I asked her if the server relayed my issues and ended up repeating them to her. She removed my plate and said she would take care of it.
Minutes later, she informed me that they were remaking the entree. I would have prefered a refund instead of a remake and expressed that. However the manager, who is also Samantha's sister, advised me they had already started cooking a replacement. I told her that I rarely send food back but had to speak up. She assured me that they serve freshly-prepared and seasoned meat. I questioned the bun, stating that it did not look or taste like focaccia. She said it wasn't and realized that the menu was incorrect. The manager mentioned that they bought the bread from a local bakery.
She delivered my new sandwich and returned shortly to ask if it was up to par. I said it was even though I'd only tasted a tiny end portion. The manager said, "I'm sorry about that sweetheart," when she delivered my receipt. I requested a to-go box and left, eager to return home where I had backup food available. The new chops proved just as tough as the prior ones. I tossed the meat in the trash. Oh Samantha, this southern gal wanted a taste of home. Clearly I didn't find it.
My fried pork chop sandwich included two huge portions of meat, way too much for the meager bun. A smarter choice would've been one portion cut in half to cut down on the thickness. After picking some of the char off of one slice of bread, I realized the other piece was practically burnt instead of toasted. Even worse, the meat was overcooked and tough. Cutting it with my fork and eating smaller pieces did not improve matters much.
I contemplated mentioning my disdain to the servers. Both glanced at me, but neither stopped by my table. The twice-baked macaroni provided a distraction. Peppery with undertones of mustard, it had just enough cheese and plenty of flavor. Now back to the sandwich.
The male server offered a to-go box. I pointed out the deficiencies in my entree. He apologized and said he would speak to his manager. She came over after helping other guests and indirectly asked what was going on. I asked her if the server relayed my issues and ended up repeating them to her. She removed my plate and said she would take care of it.
Minutes later, she informed me that they were remaking the entree. I would have prefered a refund instead of a remake and expressed that. However the manager, who is also Samantha's sister, advised me they had already started cooking a replacement. I told her that I rarely send food back but had to speak up. She assured me that they serve freshly-prepared and seasoned meat. I questioned the bun, stating that it did not look or taste like focaccia. She said it wasn't and realized that the menu was incorrect. The manager mentioned that they bought the bread from a local bakery.
She delivered my new sandwich and returned shortly to ask if it was up to par. I said it was even though I'd only tasted a tiny end portion. The manager said, "I'm sorry about that sweetheart," when she delivered my receipt. I requested a to-go box and left, eager to return home where I had backup food available. The new chops proved just as tough as the prior ones. I tossed the meat in the trash. Oh Samantha, this southern gal wanted a taste of home. Clearly I didn't find it.
2/22/15
Top Romance Novels
Fifty Shades of Grey might have stolen all the Valentine's hype but plenty of more notable romance reads exist.
Check out this BET.com list in honor of Black History Month:
http://www.bet.com/news/fashion-and-beauty/photos/2012/02/top-african-american-romance-novels.html
2/15/15
Free $20 Wedding Registry Target Gift Card
Did someone put a ring on it on Valentine's Day? Head to Target and receive a free gift card for joining the wedding registry. Offer is limited and only lasts a week. Visit Target.com for details.
2/4/15
Free Chick-fil-a Coffee
We could use some hot Chick-fil-a Coffee in NYC but alas, the chain hasn't expanded here! Visit all month long for a free hot, or cold if you dare, coffee.2/1/15
Community Coffee Military Match Program
Need java to rev up in the mornings? Try one of Community Coffee's blends and support military personnel in the process. The retailer generously matches your purchase so those serving us can get a taste of home.
See site for details:
http://www.communitycoffee.com/militarymatch
1/19/15
Blue Ribbon Chicken, NYC
Fueled by a mere handful of pistachios for breakfast, I needed nourishment. I'd been craving chicken for a few days and scoured reviews for joints offering fried goodness reminiscent of that served Down South. Every establishment's good commentary had an evil twin. By mid-afternoon I discovered Blue Ribbon Chicken. The eatery won by default. Brothers Bruce and Eric Bromberg run it and other themed spots around the city. Although I've visited none of the others, I figured they'd more than likely deliver an appetizing meal.
I decided to go a la carte and chose a Mighty Wing, instead of a regular one, and onion rings. While I waited, I asked a manager if they made the ice cream. He affirmed that they did and asked what flavor I thought looked interesting. I also noticed another manager visiting guests' tables. One employee's sole job consisted of cleaning the dining room. Kudos for staff attentiveness!
Almost embarrassingly so, I dove in seconds after my order arrived. The wing lacked that buttermilk dipped, heavily-floured coating I expected based on meals of fried chicken past. Between their signature spice mix and frying techniques, the owners did manage to create a crispy, light and flavorful crust. I ate every bit of skin I could pry off the bone.
As I did so, I thought of how the preparation seemed simultaneously simple and elevated. The rings had the sort of crust I expected the chicken to have. They reminded me of those served in most Savannah seafood restaurants.
I dipped portions of my Mighty Wing and onion rings in the honey mustard and bbq sauces although the chicken and rings tasted fine on their own. Freshly prepared, both condiments had a thin consistency but packed a surprisingly flavorful punch.
Dessert, complimentary banana salted caramel ice cream, topped off the meal. I'm not a huge banana fan but wanted to try it because I enjoy homemade caramel. As I scraped up every bit possible, I conjured up memories of every scoop I'd ever encountered. I must say this dessert edged out my previous favorite, High Road Craft Ice Cream's carrot variety.
I realized after reviewing Blue Ribbon's website that the manager who delivered the treat was one of the owners. With food, service, and an atmosphere that are all on point Blue Ribbon Chicken is bound to become a favorite.
I decided to go a la carte and chose a Mighty Wing, instead of a regular one, and onion rings. While I waited, I asked a manager if they made the ice cream. He affirmed that they did and asked what flavor I thought looked interesting. I also noticed another manager visiting guests' tables. One employee's sole job consisted of cleaning the dining room. Kudos for staff attentiveness!
Almost embarrassingly so, I dove in seconds after my order arrived. The wing lacked that buttermilk dipped, heavily-floured coating I expected based on meals of fried chicken past. Between their signature spice mix and frying techniques, the owners did manage to create a crispy, light and flavorful crust. I ate every bit of skin I could pry off the bone.
As I did so, I thought of how the preparation seemed simultaneously simple and elevated. The rings had the sort of crust I expected the chicken to have. They reminded me of those served in most Savannah seafood restaurants.
I dipped portions of my Mighty Wing and onion rings in the honey mustard and bbq sauces although the chicken and rings tasted fine on their own. Freshly prepared, both condiments had a thin consistency but packed a surprisingly flavorful punch.
Dessert, complimentary banana salted caramel ice cream, topped off the meal. I'm not a huge banana fan but wanted to try it because I enjoy homemade caramel. As I scraped up every bit possible, I conjured up memories of every scoop I'd ever encountered. I must say this dessert edged out my previous favorite, High Road Craft Ice Cream's carrot variety.
I realized after reviewing Blue Ribbon's website that the manager who delivered the treat was one of the owners. With food, service, and an atmosphere that are all on point Blue Ribbon Chicken is bound to become a favorite.
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