My Coke Rewards Program

Many people drink coke products, few people take advantage of My Coke Rewards. If you are not taking advantage, go to http://www.mycokerewards.com/ and sign up. Every time you buy a 12 or 24 pack (or various other single serve items)- log on and enter your code (code is on the end of the box or under the cap). Points add up quickly and you can spend them on entering sweepstakes or obtaining merchandise. I get many magazines subscriptions for free using my reward points, and recently was offered 50 FREE 4 x 6 photos from Snapfish through My Coke Rewards and wasn't even required to use my points to obtain them. If you drink Coke products, you need to check it out.

Playdough Recipe for Kids' Crafts

Looking for some cheap entertainment for your kids this winter break? Why not mix up a batch of homemade dough for an art project, or ornaments for the tree? To make it you will need:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup salt
• 3/4 cup warm water
• mixing bowl, spoon, aluminum pan or plastic plate

Mix the flour and salt in bowl. Gradually stir in the water kneading the mixture until it is a dough like consistency. Add more water or flour if needed. Put creations on pie tin or plastic plate to dry in warm sunny spot for 24 hours before moving.

FREE Gas Appliance Safety Inspections for SDG&E Natural Gas Customers

SDG&E offers it's natural gas customers FREE safety inspections on gas appliances such as furnaces, water heaters and ovens year round.  They do not make any repairs, but they do troubleshoot and make simple adjustments.   All you have to do is call 1-800-411-7343 or go to www.sdge.com/serviceorder.

Zig Zag Pizza Pie is Now Open in Oceanside Across from The Pier!

 

Sounds good, doesn't it?

Save Up to 57% Off at One of My Favorite Italian Restaurants, Cicciotti's Trattoria Italiana in Cardiff

For the delicious, authentic Italian food and for the atmosphere and view, you have got to take Cicciotti's Trattoria Italiana up on this awesome Groupon opportunity where you can save up to 57%! It's one of my favorite North County spots to grab a delicious meal. Come find out why.  Spend $20, get $45 or spend $39 and get $90 worth of food and drink.  What a deal!  http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-4368919-10872943?url=http%3A//www.groupon.com/deals/cicciotti-s-trattoria-italiana-seafood-6

Please Use Around The Town Links When Purchasing through Daily Deal Sites

Many of you have mentioned to me that with inundated email inboxes, you appreciate how I aggregate the best of the daily deals for the day so that you don't have to go through your inbox every day scanning each offer. What you might not know is that I am an affiliate with many of these companies, so if you purchase through Around The Town's links, I may get a small percentage of the sale as a thank you from the company. So my request to you is that you use my links when you order your daily deals from companies such as Groupon, Living Social (and others), and print your free coupons from coupons.com, etc. When I share a deal with you, I always post a link as well so it's right there for you- no searching for it. When you use my links it helps me do giveaways and prizes for my subscribers, which I love to do!  Thanks so much everyone for taking a moment to read this and for using my provided links when you place your orders. Barb

Organizing Your Daily Deal Certificates

Do you love to find a great offer on the daily deal sites like I do?  I have quite a stack of vouchers going and I want to give you a few pointers on keeping yours organized and share what's worked for me.

1. DO take advantage of the fabulous deals offered on the daily deal sites because you can save a lot of money and be introduced to some fantastic local businesses.

2. Always print your voucher as soon as you order them. If you order on your iPad or phone, make a note for yourself to get it done that day so you don't forget.

3.  Organize your vouchers by expiration date, ones that expire first placed on top.

4.  Make a list organized by expiration month to pin somewhere prominent that lists your deals you have available and the date they must be used by, and always be checking.

5. This is just me, but how I do it. I keep a stack of vouchers in the car for places that I will definitely use while out and about and I want to make sure they are on hand.  I keep vouchers that require a little more planning inside the house. Review both stacks often and make your plans around them.

Half-Priced Vouchers at Some of My Favorite North County Restaurants

DoubleTakeDeals has half-priced vouchers to a few of my favorite places right now, the one I am most excited about is Café Merlot at Bernardo Winery.  You spend $20, but get to enjoy $40 in food and drink. If you hang out Around The Town much, you know Bernardo Winery Inc is one of my favorite places in North County, and to be able to grab half-priced breakfast or lunch while there just makes it all the more enjoyable. Besides the obvious wine-tasting, the grounds also have shops, special artisan events, live music on the patio on Sundays, farmers market on Fridays and more. This offer is limited-release, so grab yours now before they are gone. While you are at the site, please check out half-off deals at Icebox Junior and Via Sicilia in Vista, and Woody's in Solana Beach as well.  http://www.doubletakedeals.com/friend/~barb.98A7B8

Get1Free Deals

I just became an affiliate for Get1Free because I have found them a great source for both buy one get one free offers as well as for finding fantastic money-saving coupons for businesses all over town. Check them out and I would love it if you could go through my link below when shopping them. Thanks! Barb  http://deals.get1free.com/?affiliateID=3152

More Fun in Fallbrook at Old Fliegler's Farm

Old Fliegler's Farm is nestled in the hills of Fallbrook, the avocado capital of the world.  The farm is full of excitement for families, groups, scouts, and schools. Take a break from the fast-paced life and enjoy a relaxing day on the farm!  Families can enjoy a 3 hour exciting hands-on farm adventure where they will interact with all the animals (Donkeys, Nigerian Dwarf Goats, Pygmy Goats, Lambs, Chickens, Bunnies, all the new babies, and “Rooty” the amazing Pot Belly Pig); tour the vegetable gardens and learn about the benefits of organic gardening, harvest seasonal fruits, veggies, and herbs; create a craft from the Fliegler Farm craft stockade; gather fresh eggs and enjoy a healthy snack! The cost is $25/person ($100 minimum). Ask about their birthday parties.  *Thank you to Judi who recently visited this lovely place and wanted to recommend it to Around The Towners.  http://www.oldflieglersfarm.com/

FREE Bowling All Summer Long at Participating AMF Bowling Centers

Thanks to Around The Towner Wendy C for sharing this great tip with us.  AMF Bowling Center in San Marcos will allow any child to bowl 2 free games every day through the end of summer. Check your local AMF Bowling Center as it's a nationwide program.  Not only is there is a free kids bowling program (you must register), but also a very inexpensive program for those 16 and older that lets you bowl for one low price all summer, plus allows you to bring FREE guests.   SWEET!https://freebowling.amf.com/

Minute Clinics at Select CVS Stores for Back-to-School Vaccinations and Sports Physicals

I did not know about this until I checked my CVS receipt today, but certain CVS locations have Minute Clinics which provide required school vaccinations every day of the week. If your kids missed required sports physicals at their school, they also do those every day, no appointment necessary. Regular price is $59 on those, but you can save $10 on that price if you get yours before 9/30/13. Also, get a free $20 coupon book with your appointment.  http://www.minuteclinic.com/backtoschool/

New Store in Historic Downtown Vista- Apothecary Off Main Featuring J.R. Watkins Products

Oh, oh...you are going to want to visit Apothecary Off Main soon! This store is newly opened and is it ever wonderful! It features the timeless, all-natural products of J.R. Watkins, a company that has been around for the last 145 years! I spent a few minutes in the store but cannot wait to go back and really do some shopping and sampling. Not only do they feature products for the body, but also for the home and even the kitchen! As you can see the store is set up so pleasing to the eye and your senses will appreciate the products. I can't wait to try my samples. You can find the store in Historic Downtown Vista- 110 Michigan Ave. They are on the back side of Twice, and kitty corner to Curbside Cafe. Tell Traci you saw them on Around The Town when you visit.

Save Up to 61% on Bowling at AMF

Save up to 61% on bowling at AMF! Choose between $15 for two hours of bowling and shoe rental for two or $25 for two hours of bowling and shoe rental for four. In North County AMF is located in San Marcos.  http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-4368919-10872943?url=http%3A//www.groupon.com/deals/amf-bowling-centers-nat-5-san-diego

Register with National Do Not Call Registry for Less Telemarketing Calls

It only takes a moment- put a stop to irritating telemarketer calls by registering your phone number(s) with the National Do Not Call Registry. If it has been a while since you did it last, it's probably time to do it again, I know I will be. 

Find The Best Gas Prices in Your Area

Thanks Linda C. for submitting this money-saving website that finds the cheapest gas in your area. Just plug in your area code!  http://www.sandiegogasprices.com/GasPriceSearch.aspx

Save Half at Vista's Icebox Deli- Best Sandwiches Around

I was literally just thinking that I had not seen any Icebox deals for a while and then I happened upon this this morning! Save half at Vista's Icebox- maker of the best sandwiches around (if you ask me). The best are the turkey avocado on squaw bread and The Beefeater. Yup, time to make an Icebox run!  http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-4368919-10872943?url=http%3A//www.groupon.com/deals/vista-ice-box-deli-jr

Visit Aura Indoor Skate Park in Vista for Up to 60% Off!

If you've been wanting to check out Aura Skate Park in Vista, here's your chance to do it for up to 60% off!  Choose Between Two Options:  1.  $5 for one all-day skate-park session (a $10 value) or $20 for five all-day skate-park sessions (a $50 value).  http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-4368919-10872943?url=http%3A//www.groupon.com/deals/aura-skateboarding-training-facility-1

Do You "Like" Around The Town on Facebook?

I hope you enjoy receiving your daily email blasts and if you have a Facebook account that you also "like" our Around The Town page there too! All different information and lots of contests with great prizes are posted there, so please stop on by!

Newer Comic Book/Collectible Store in Vista

If you or your kids are into comic books, you might want to check out newer comic book store in Vista called Toy Wars. It's located in an industrial park at 1084 La Mirada Court in Vista.  They primarily do business online, but would love to have more customers visit the store.  In the store you can find a plethora of memorabilia and collectibles in addition to comic books.  They are open 9-5 Monday through Friday and 11-5 on Saturdays.  760-295-2752.  Tell them you heard about them on Around The Town. 

Sammy's Woodfired Pizza Weekly Specials

I love Sammy's and now there is even more to love with these fantastic specials throughout the week:

Portrait Packages at JCP Portraits Just $25

Let JCP Portraits at your local JCPenney Store capture your family on film with packages beginning at a mere $25 (including sitting fee).  There are 5 locations to choose from.  http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-4368919-10872943?url=http%3A//www.groupon.com/deals/jcpportraits-4-san-diego

$60 Worth of Goods for $15 from Vista Print- Create a Custom Gift for Father's Day

Surprise dad something cool and custom for Father's Day with this $60 Vista Print voucher that will only cost you $15 to purchase. Design your own t-shirt, make a mug, a custom banner, pens with family pictures (love those) and more.  http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-4368919-10872943?url=http%3A//www.groupon.com/deals/vista-print-43

Save Half on Children's Tickets to The San Diego Zoo When You Dine at Denny's

Discounted Paint-Your-Own Pottery Classes in San Marcos

Looking for a fun night out with friends? Check out this Groupon offer from A Colorful Universe in San Marcos! Grab a "paint your own pottery" package for 2, or there is one available for 4 people as well. They have 4 different themed nights to choose from: Ladies' Night (includes appetizers), Date Night (includes appetizers), Kids' Night Out (includes popcorn and a PG movie) or College Night Out.  http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-4368919-10872943?url=http%3A//www.groupon.com/deals/a-colorful-universe-1

$10 for a Triple Play Pass at Boomers!

If you are heading to Boomers any time soon, you will want to grab this Triple Play Pass from DoubleTake Deals for only $10.  A Triple Play Pass is good for 2 attractions plus mini golf. 
http://www.doubletakedeals.com/friend/~barb.98A7B8

FREE Boat Ride to Catalina on Your Birthday

Did you know that you can get a FREE boat ride to Catalina compliments of Catalina Express on your birthday? Just pre-register at www.CatalinaExpress.com to get your free pass.  Hurry, this offer will only last a year, so take advantage now.  Details: must pre-register online, present printed Birthday Free Pass and government issued photo ID including proof of birth date at ticket window.  Valid only for travel on your birthday.  Offer is good through April 30, 2013.

FREE Printable Coupons Reset The First Day of Each Month

FREE grocery coupons are available to you on Around The Town's main blog and web page EVERY day, but the first of the month is the best time to check in as new coupons refresh and reset. The most popular ones supplies can run out quickly.  Simply click the coupons.com banner ad to get started and select only the coupons that interest you. Print and SAVE BIG!

Weekend Guided Tours of Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park- Carlsbad

On Saturdays at 11am and 1pm and Sundays at noon and 2pm, you can get a free 90-minute guided tour of Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, located at 6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Lane in Carlsbad. The 27-acre historical park has irregular earthen and paved surfaces, trails and stairs, so it is recommended that you wear appropriate shoes for the terrain and walk. This park is owned and operated by the City of Carlsbad Parks & Recreation. http://www.leocarrilloranch.org/ or call 760-476-1042.

Great Brews in Vista- Check It Out!

Vista is quickly becoming a hot spot for local breweries and wine makers.  Some you might have been to, some you might want to put on your list to try. Here are a list of members of the Vista Brewer's Guild: 

1. California Fruit Wine  www.californiafruitwine.com.

2. Iron Fist Brewing Company  www.ironfistbrewing.com.

3.  Mother Earth Brewing Company  www.motherearthbrewco.com.

4.  Aztec Brewing Company  www.aztecbrewery.com

5.  Latitude 33 Brewing Company  www.lat33brew.com

6.  Lamppost Pizza/Back Street Brewing Company  www.lamppost-backstreet.com.

7.  Prohibition Brewing Company  www.prohibitionbrewingcompany.com

8.  Belching Beaver Brewery, Inc. http://belchinbeaver.com/

9.  Indian Joe Brewing www.indianjoebeer.com

10. Coming soon...Fifty Barrels Winery http://www.fiftybarrels.com/

Save Up to 60% at The Paintball Park- Pendleton and Miramar Locations

Not often are there paintball outing discounts offered for North County parks, so you will want to grab this one!  Groupon is offering a Paintball Outing with Gear and Equipment Rental and 200 or 400 Paintballs (Up to 60% Off) for both their Pendleton and Miramar parks. 
http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-4368919-10872943?url=http%3A//www.groupon.com/san-diego

Save $5 off $25 order at Drugstore.com

I do a lot of my cosmetic/toiletry shopping online at drugstore.com to avoid all the unnecessary temptations that go along with taking a trip to Target. I also like the convenience of having it delivered right to my porch. Things I love about this site:

• competitive pricing, including sale and coupon items and buy one get one deals
• no sales tax
• free shipping with minimum purchase (usually $25-50)
• a personal "shopping list" available for easy reorders
• handy customer reviews so you can see what others think of the products
• each order earns you reward dollars that can be used for future purchases

As you can see, there are a lot of perks when shopping at drugstore.com. I was emailed this morning and told I have $10.19 in drugstore.com dollars right now ready to use. I like it! Right now, when you order through my link you'll get $5 off your first $25 purchase as a way of introducing you to the company! http://drugstore.tellapal.com/a/clk/6Z10S Check it out and you will probably become a convert like me.

Find Ways to Save with This Rate Comparison Website by Local Businessman

I was just breezing through the weekend paper, and came across an article about a local businessman Logan Abbott, and a website he put together to help you compare plans for all your monthly plans (phone, credit card, television, insurance, etc.). MyRatePlan.com strives to help you pick the right plan for you, and to cut out needless waste and spending. I like it!

Spend $25, get $50 at Running Center (Carlsbad)

Spend $25 but get $50 to spend at Running Center- just in time to meet your New Year's fitness goals! Multiple locations to shop at, including Carlsbad. http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-4368919-10872943?url=http%3A//www.groupon.com/deals/running-center-6

Note to Business Owners...Grow Your Business and Reward Loyal Customers

I know a lot of you own your own local businesses, and I like to support what you do. When you thrive and prosper, so do our local communities.  Today I met with a gal named Kathleen who is introducing a newer, interactive, user-friendly automated rewards program to businesses designed to make rewarding your loyal customers easier.  It also streamlines the process of interacting with those who patronize your business as well as bring new business in.  If you would like more information on the program, I'd be happy to put you in touch with Kathleen so she can tell you more. It sounds very exciting for businesses as well as customers and will surely change the way things have been done in the past! If you'd like to know more, please use my "contact us" form and send your information my way. I'll get back with you shortly. 

Half Priced Certificates for Lots of Fantastic San Diego Restaurants and Businesses

DoubleTake Deals is one of my favorite daily deal sites. They offer lots of variety at some fantastic San Diego restaurants and businesses.  Currently you can purchase half priced vouchers for places such as: Sabor de Vida Brazilian Grill in Encinitas, Mr. Taco in San Marcos, Cafe Merlot at Bernardo Winery, Birch Aquarium in La Jolla, Via Sicilia (only 3 left) in Vista, The Back Porch in Vista and Swirlz Candy in Escondido, and so many more.  http://www.doubletakedeals.com/friend/~barb.98A7B8

It's Never Too Soon to Start Planning for College Costs

As we all know, college expenses are crazy these days, so from the moment you bring a little one into the world, it's time to start thinking about college. Your planning will continue as they age and approach college entry. To consider:

529 plans:  they offer tax advantages, and make it easy for grandparents to contribute if so desired. Even $100 a month can make a substantial impact. Important: do not let saving for a college plan ever take precedence over saving for retirement. https://www.scholarshare.com/index.shtml

Try to resist student loans. Do not take on more in loans than half of what student expects to make their first year of working (starting salary).

Be sure to look for all scholarship opportunities. It's amazing how many are out there!

Pay close attention to financial aid forms (FAFSA and CSS). These can make or break your aid opportunities and are often filled out incorrectly.  It's not a bad idea to hire a professional to make sure this step is completed correctly. 

Plan your investments:  When your student is within two years of college, this is the time to become more conservative with your investments. It's not the time to be risky and potentially lose their college funds.

Scholarship Money Available for Children of Marines

If you are a Marine, good news! Your child may qualify for valuable scholarship money!  Last year 100 scholarships were given to students from Camp Pendleton and surrounding areas within a radius of 50 miles. Check out all the information and find out how to apply in this article by U-T San Diego.

Free Yoga Classes at Lululemon at The Forum (Carlsbad) Each Saturday

Free yoga class anyone? You can get yours at lululemon at The Forum every Saturday at 9am!

Activate that New Year's resolution!  Bring your mat or use one of theirs. Beginners welcome! Join us!  http://www.lululemon.com/carlsbad/carlsbadforum

Get Cash for Your Gently Used Clothing with Tradsey

I just heard of this today, and I LOVE IT! We all know about EBAY, but now there is Tradesy for selling your gently used clothing!  They take all the hassle out of it for you, even down to providing you with the shipping package and payment processing. Check it out!  http://www.tradesy.com/how-it-works/

Financial Aid for High School Seniors

If you have a high school senior, be sure to file for the FREE application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible to ensure that you don't miss out on available college financial aid.  http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/

New Pilates Studio BodyLogic Opens in San Marcos- Special for Around The Towners Available

A new cutting-edge Pilates studio has opened in San Marcos.  The owner, Angelique, is offering Around the Town Facebook followers $10 off as a first-time client special. That means as an Around The Towner you can get 1 week of unlimited classes for $25 (originally $35).

The studio is in San Marcos right on the border of Carlsbad. They offer private, semi-private and group classes. Classes on equipment as well as mat classes are available and BodyLogic is the only studio in San Marcos and Carlsbad to offer Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis. There is also an apprentice instructor that offers private rates at a lower price point. Now is the perfect time to stop in and keep that New Year's resolutions to get in shape.  http://bodylogic-pilates.com/