Six Chances to Meet Your Kitchener Rangers this Weekend!

  

This weekend Kitchener Rangers’ fans have a great opportunity to meet some of their favourite players while grocery shopping….

Six Sobeys stores across Waterloo Region are hosting simultaneous Meet and Greet events tomorrow –  Saturday, February 9th from 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. So check out the schedule below and find out where your favourite player will be and head to that Sobeys store to get autographs and have your photo taken.

Pretty awesome right? Oh and while you are there, might as well grab some groceries too. Have fun!

DATE: Saturday, February 9, 2013

TIME: 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

LOCATIONS:

Bridgeport Sobeys
94 Bridgeport Rd., Kitchener, N2J 2J4
•    Jared Gilbert
•    Owen Stewart
•    Darby Llewellyn

Columbia Sobeys
450 Columbia St. W, Waterloo, N2T 2W1
•    Ben Fanelli
•    Ryan Murphy
•    Derek Schoenmakers

Fischer Hallman Sobeys
1187 Fischer-Hallman, Kitchener, N2E 4H9
•    Domenic Alberga
•    Max Iafrate
•    Curtis Meighan

Highland Sobeys
274 Highland Rd. W, Kitchener, N2M 3C5
•    Evan McEneny
•    Radek Faksa

Ira Needles Sobeys
235 Ira Needles Blvd, Kitchener, N2N 0A6
•    Frank Corrado
•    Josh Leivo

Northfield Sobeys
585 Weber St. N, Waterloo, N2V 1V8
•    Justin Bailey
•    Brent Pedersen 

Please note: list is subject to change

Visit www.sobeys.com for more information on Sobeys. 

For more information, please contact:

Adriann Kennedy    
Community Relations Manager
Kitchener Rangers Hockey Club       
T: 519-576-3700 ext. 234

My 5 tips on Surviving Holiday Returns

Why is it always so much fun to shop and so annoying doing a return? Well, during this time of power shopping, it’s extra important to be on top of the holiday return policies so you don’t get stuck with a gift you can’t return.  Here are a few simple tips and personal examples that I am sharing to try and help you keep your sanity and your money safe.

 

My 5 Tips to Simple Holiday Returning

#1. Know the Policy & Last Day to Return. Most stores offer extended holiday returning (usually the first week of January) and almost no ones takes returns on Boxing Day. Find out when the last day for returns and exchanges is so you can tell the person who gets the gift. It’s up to you to find out each store’s holiday return policy before you purchase. Some are posted behind the cash registers but I usually just ask so I can ask questions and clarify as they are sometimes confusing. The policies are different from store to store and some don’t offer full refunds, only credit notes. I avoid those stores as I find that policy works in their favour, not mine and frankly, that’s not consumer friendly. Some policies are strange too, as I found out during my travels. I like these stores but don’t like these particular policies…

Personal Examples of Strange Policies: 

• * The Children’s Place - After 45 days, The Children’s Place will only offer you a gift card (this I found to be reasonable as I waited too long) BUT even if you have the receipt proving the price you paid, they will only give you the last sale price on that item. So even though I paid $34.99, I now get a gift card for $15.99 which I did not like and you won’t either.
• *Aeropostale - If you ask for a Gift Receipt with your purchase, the person receiving it CAN NOT get a full refund on that item — only a store credit. BUT if you get a regular receipt instead, you can get your money back 100%. So why would anyone even want a gift receipt? Very strange policy..

#2. Proper storage. Don’t store receipts in the bags — ask for them and put them directly in your purse or other folder for safe keeping. It’s too easy for the bag to be thrown out with the receipt stuck inside leaving you stuck. It’s a simple step but an important one.

#3. Be organized. Write the name of the person and the gift name at top of the receipt before you store it. It only takes a few seconds at the cash counter and it will make it so much easier later on when sorting through the pile.

#4. Create a Special Folder. Keep all your receipts in a special envelope or folder labeled, for example, Christmas 2012. I then keep this envelope in my purse so that it’s there when I need it. If you are a super savvy shopper you might notice something you have already bought going on sale before December 25th and they should refund you the difference simply by showing your receipt. (if not, just return it and rebuy it).  No matter what, it’s best to keep them handy at all times since there is nothing worse than waiting in the long Customer Service Desk line only to find that you left the receipt at home. Been there – done that.

#5. Giving the gift receipt to the receiver. I used to include the gift receipt with my gift but from experience, I’ve learned that it can easily get lost in the shuffle of wrapping paper and end up in the garbage. Now I keep it in a safe spot until after the opening frenzy is over. I then hand it to the person at a quiet moment so they can put it in their wallet or purse or some safe place. Once you hand it over, it’s their responsibility and you can relax. If you have any suspicion that someone might not like the gift, I think it’s a nice gesture to hand it over with a smile adding “I will not be offended in any way if you want to return it”. Some people are just too polite and are embarrassed to ask for a receipt even if they hate your gift and nobody wins there.

 If you do lose a receipt, which is inevitable, don’t panic. Most major retailers will most likely give you a gift card in this situation, sometimes at the most recent sale price and sometimes not. Whatever you get in this case you will have to accept as ‘better than nothing’ since the only alternative is that they don’t accept the return at all.

Happy Shopping!

 

• Do you have any tips to share?
• Have you encountered any strange policies this holiday season?
• Please share so we can all learn together and become smart shoppers!

My Top Two Holiday Family Events this weekend in Waterloo Region!

Well the pre-Christmas holiday celebrations are now in full swing with only 2 1/2 weeks until the BIG DAY, what are you waiting for? This weekend is really loaded with some great events to get you in the spirit of the season…between the Kristkindel Market in Kitchener City Hall,  the Bethany Nativity Scene and a lovely holiday concert in Bloomingdale I know I will be one busy lady! I have highlighted my two top picks for this weekend to share with you with the hopes that you might enjoy them too!

PICK #1 – * Bethany Live Nativity Christmas Pageant  

WHERE – Bethany Church - 160 Lancaster Ave Kitchener (between Krug Street and Frederick near Centre in the Square area)

December 7, 8, 9th-  2012

4 FREE Shows Nightly at 6pm, 7pm, 8pm and 9pm

This pageant really has it all and if you have not seen it, you should totally go. You will be amazed by the detail and effort this church puts into this show which retells the story of Christmas right from the bible. There is a cast of 145 volunteers wearing elaborate costumes and the show also features 40 live animals and a fantastic set and props. You actually feel like you are in Bethlehem on Christmas Eve watching the birth of baby Jesus.

This show is appropriate for anyone of any age and children in particular will be captivated by this incredible show. I know many local people who attend the show every year and have made it part of their Christmas tradition. Why not start a new tradition this year and check it out?

Some important details: 

* Presented outside in our Church parking lot.

* Bleacher seating so dress accordingly

*Optional inside seating also available with live video feed.

* Refreshments to follow inside the church.

* Get there about 15-20 minutes before the show to get a good seat and the entire show lasts about 20 minutes.

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For more information visit:  http://www.bethanypageant.com/

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Pick #2 – Koininia Church – “Christmas in Concert”

4 FREE shows to enjoy!

Saturday December 8th 4pm or 7pm

and

Sunday December 9th – 2pm or 5pm

Inside Kioninia Church, Bloomingdale, Ontario

Last year upon the suggestion of a close friend, our family and some close friends and all our kids headed out to Bloomingdale to this holiday concert expecting a nice family evening. What we didn’t expect was to be blown away by the level of talent and professionalism of the musicians, the choirs, singers and the production as a whole. It was like something you would pay to see at the Centre in the Square – I kid you not – it is that good. The show far exceeded all of our expectations and we are now making it an annual tradition.

I can’t say enough good things about this show and most importantly, it filled my heart with joy and we all left the show feeling inspired and reminded of the real reason for the season and totally in the Christmas mood. It was fun, inspiring, and extremely entertaining. While it was held in a church and some of the songs were spiritual, this was not a religious show and I strongly encourage ANYONE to go no matter what your faith or beliefs. You will never feel uncomfortable and the congregation was so welcoming and kind — a really lovely experience. Our children, who were only 3, 5 and 10 at the time were captivated and sat quietly through the entire show.

On their website, the church describes the show  ’an annual celebration of the best of Christmas music -a classy, nostalgic concert full of the joy of Christmas! With dance, live band & orchestra and a powerful choir, you’ll hear some of your favourite songs of the season from heart-touching ballads to swinging classics.’ Click on the video below to see a little commercial..

Choose from 4 of our FREE performances for the whole family on Saturday or Sunday. Bloomingdale is a small village just outside Kitchener Waterloo – a 10 – 20 minute depending on where you are coming from. From the Stanley Park area, we are there in about 10 minutes.

Visit their website:  http://www.kcf.org/event/site/christmas-in-concert/redirect/

Click here to watch a video about the show..  http://vimeo.com/51442580

Map to the show..just minutes from Kitchener Waterloo

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Bonus Pick #3 – Kitchener’s Natural Areas Program Winter Bird Nature Walk

Ok …so this one isn’t Chritmassy at all, but what a great way to spend your afternoon!

Discover nature in the city

Upcoming events: Winter 2012-13

• Saturday, Dec 8, 1 p.m – Winter Birds of the Huron Natural Area          Meet at Huron Natural Area, 801 Trillium Dr.                                Spend an afternoon with friends of the feathered kind!  Join staff from the City of Kitchener on a hike in the Huron Natural Area and learn about some of the birds that remain in Ontario for the winter season. Free – all ages and beginner birders welcome!  Bring along binoculars if you have them.                             
• Note: Washroom facilities will not be available.

Kitchener’s Natural Areas Program (KNAP) is an environmental program that is focused on the stewardship of natural areas in our community.  This program is funded and delivered by the City of Kitchener.   KNAP was created in 2006 with theKitchener-Waterloo Field Naturalists and Waterloo Stewardship Network as partners.  The City of Kitchener has also recently partnered with Evergreen to further develop this program.

The goals of KNAP:

• Engage the community in environmental stewardship projects.
• Educate people about Kitchener’s natural areas.
• Create opportunities for people to experience nature in the city.

Don’t Miss the CPR Holiday Train rolling through Cambridge & Ayr TODAY!

The CPR Holiday Train 

Making a Difference, One Stop at a Time

Residents of Waterloo Region will get two chances to enjoy the CPR Holiday Train as it rolls through Cambridge and Ayr this afternoon on it’s cross-Canada tour to raise donations for local food banks everywhere it stops.  I encourage you to get out and enjoy this mild weather and check out this awesome holiday excursion and get in the spirit of giving while you are at it.  My kids still talk about it from last year! You can catch it at 4:45 in Galt and 6 pm in Ayr (see exact details below)

The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train will visit over 150 communities across our network.  Each event features a boxcar stage, a lineup of great musical talent and a contribution to the local food bank.  Everyone who attends is encouraged to donate food and money which stays in their community. Since it’s inception in 1999, we’ve raised more than $6.4 million and over 2.6 million pounds of food in the U.S. and Canada.

 Canadian Holiday Train

 schedule and entertainers

The Canadian Holiday Train will embark on its three-week journey on November 28 from Beaconsfield, Quebec, finishing up in Port Moody, BC, on December 18.  This year’s entertainers on the Canadian train include Doc Walker, Miss Emily, and theBrothers Dube.

Sunday, December 02, 2012 U.S. Holiday Train *
Cambridge (Galt)	Former Galt Station, 10 Malcolm St	4:45 pm
Ayr	CP railway crossing at Inglis St	6:00 pm
London	Richmond St railway crossing, between Oxford and Central	8:15 pm

Making a difference, one stop at a time

 

Christmas Kicks off Tonight & This Weekend in UpTown Waterloo!

Well last night we watched our first Christmas special.. A Charlie Brown Christmas and it put me in the holiday mood. Locally, things are also really starting to get going and tonigh will be my family’s first outing to celebrate…there’s even a chance of flurries to really get you in the mood!

Enjoy children’s choirs singing, photos with Santa, hot apple cider, horse drawn trolley rides, strolling carrolers.. wow!

I encourage you to enjoy this great free event sponsored by the Uptown Waterloo Business Improvement Association – A Holiday Open House — happening in  uptown Waterloo tonight. I know it’s a school night but why not bundle up the kids after dinner and head on down for an hour before bed?

UpTown Waterloo Holiday Open House 

Thursday, November 29, 2012 
4:30 – 8pm
Waterloo Town Square 

*Local School Choirs and Band Performances.

*Strolling Victorian Carollers

*Free Horse Drawn Trolley rides through UpTown Waterloo.

*Hot apple cider and cookies

*Participating local shops and services open til 8pm.

*Pictures with Santa from 6pm to 8pm.

Please bring a non-perishable food item or make a cash donation to help support the Food Bank of Waterloo Region.

If tonight doesn’t work, how about  Saturday which marks the grand opening of the always magical Wonder’s of Winter light display in Waterloo Park. …the lights get switched on this Saturday night!

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The Wonder’s of Winter — Lights in the Park

Schedule at a Glance

Opening Night: Saturday, Dec. 1

Admission: Free!

Lights On Daily: 5:30-10:30 pm
Christmas Eve: 5:30-12:30 am
New Years Eve: 5:30-1:00 am

Click here for a Detailed Schedule

Trolley Nights – enjoy a free ride by a horsedrawn trolly!

December 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 24, 28, 29, 31

WoW School House Play

December 1, 7, 8, 14, 15

New MyMark Store Brings Smart Style & Savvy Prices to Kitchener!

Outside view of the new mymark store in Kitchener’s Forest Glen Plaza.

mymark makes it Canadian Debut!

A few weeks ago, I was invited to the grand opening of the new mymark store – billed as Canada’s newest value retail destination. Intrigued by their new slogan “Smart Style, Savvy Savings”, I  eagerly arrived ready to investigate the newest addition to the bargain retail landscape in Kitchener.

Getting into the spirit at the grand opening!

mymark describes itself as ‘Canada’s fun and vibrant shopping destination for the very latest in on-trend fashions and contemporary home décor and I would totally agree.  What I didn’t realize until I arrived that this store is in fact part of the a Canada-wide dramatic re-branding of the old Bargain Shop chain which sees cities now calling it mymark and stores in rural areas being called Red Apple.  The Kitchener store was one of six mymark stores set to launch across Canada by the end of November.

Mymark is located in the Forest Glen Plaza in Kitchener’s south end where the Bargain Shop used to operate. This is a dramatically new and improved version of the Bargain Shop which has gotten rid of all their food and consumable products and replaced them with private-label fashions and merchandise. I see the new store as a convenient, local discount destination and I love their new focus with on-trend clothing, footwear, housewares, seasonal items, toys, cosmetics and more!

The fresh new store has a Target, Giant Tiger, Wal Mart-esqe feel to it, but with a nice comfortable size, mymark delivers this in a much cleaner, less-crowded and cozy way.  And I love that it’s Canadian owned.

Candy Corner.

I loved my shopping experience as I found the store sleek and bright with a modern design. The aisles were spacious, the displays were simple and the store was easy to manoeuver. Staff was friendly and helpful and there was lots of highly visible signage pointing out the specific areas of the store so I could find what I needed. The merchandise was attractively displayed and many treasures caught my eye. And YES, the prices were fantastic making my wallet happy too!

Across all departments, the prices were amazingly low and I truly felt like I was getting the Big Box bargains without the overwhelming big box experience.  Inside the store you can find the hottest trends in footwear, womens fashion (including a plus section), children’s home décor, seasonal, toys, electronics, cosmetics and more. I was drawn to the great selection of winter footwear for the entire family, seasonal decor, and a very stylish children’s clothing department filled with the latest trends as super low prices.

For the little ones..adorable onesies only $3.99!

As for myself, I treated myself to super hot pair of leather boots with wool lining for only $40! I also picked up some stylish and trendy black jeggings for two daughters which they LOVED, a stylish new hat for myself. I also found some adorable Christmas jingle bell jewelery and in the cosmetic department I picked up a new lip gloss for only $2.50 which is fantastic.

Some of the areas that jumped out at me were:

 

Children’s Clothing: They had a great selection of cute and trendy clothing for both boys and girls including tops, leggings, jeans, tights and more. The infant and toddler section also had a wide selection of adorable items and be sure to check out their exclusive line of Sesame Street licensed clothing.

Foot wear – big selection of the hottest styles in quality, ladies fashion boots at prices you can actually afford, kids winter boots, all sizes of runners, mens shoes and boots, slippers etc.

Home Décor – hot throws, pillows, décor items all in themes for a quick and inexpensive update to your home

Toys – lots of the latest trends including One Direction and Brave dolls, Cars electronic toys and more.

Candyworks – sky-high candy towers greet you as you enter the store in this showstopping candy section.

One Direction dolls!

Super Savers – located near the front of the store, a big selection of inexpensive fun and practical  items perfect for for a few dollars or less. Great spot for birthday party loot bags, treats for the kids, stocking stuffers and more!

Tons of bargains in the Super Savers department!

The verdict?

This Bargain Hunting Momma’s gives mymark a big Thumbs Up for a fabulous shopping experience and great merchandise at value pricing. If you haven’t been, I urge you to check out this new store to see and save for yourself.

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Head over to Facebook & Get Your $10 OFF Coupon NOW!

Head on over to the mymark Facebook page right now and LIKE it — there you will find a fabulous coupon good until December 9th for $10 OFF your entire purchse of $50 of more. Just in time for Christmas!

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Additional Note:  

The Forest Glen Plaza is fast-becoming a go-to destination for KW bargain lovers as it already offers the No Frills grocery store, this new mymark store and opening soon, the long-awaited KW début of Once Upon a Child with it’s gently used children’s clothing, toys and more!

‘Get Your Sport On’ & SAVE $ at Sportco’s 45th Anniversary Customer Appreciation Day!

If you were born and raised in Kitchener, chances are pretty high that you have shopped at Sportco –  a sporting goods mainstay located at 880 King Street East in Kitchener between Stirling and Ottawa Street.   Sportco Source for Sports is celebrating 45 years in business by throwing a big sale and you are invited!

Sportco is an independently family run sports store that boasts 16,000 square feet of shopping in one of the area’s largest and most extensive selection of sporting goods & services, including a huge dedicated Goalie Loft.

Unlike the big box chains, a strong commitment to customer service and product knowledge is what sets Sportco apart. The owners take great pride in the reputation which they have worked hard to earn over the past 45 years.Their staff have all played the games they sell equipment for, another reason that they have become one of  the region’s oldest and reputable sports stores.

And I bet you didn’t know that on top of selling sporting goods, they also have a full  Team & Corporate Division offering custom team uniforms & corporate apparel & all the services listed below under one roof?

• Professional Skate Sharpening – Regular, Flat Bottom & Custom Radius
• Skate Alignment
• Custom Skate Molding & Vacuuming
• Equipment Cleaning & Repair
• Used skate trade in and sales
• Racquet Stringing
• Ball Glove Repairs
• Lacrosse Stick Relacing
• Sports Medicine
• Silk Screening & Embroidery
• Tackle Twill for Uniforms & Jerseys
• Heat Seal Cresting – Names & Numbers
• Trophy Design & Engraving
• Trade-Ins on Used Equipment

You won’t find another store with the expertise and product knowledge that they offer, something that is so important when fitting you or your child with equipment to keep them safe when playing the sports they love.  Aren’t you tired of going to a store with giant aisles of product but not a single soul around who can explain anything about it? Not the case at Sportco — the owner and staff share a passion for sports and retail and it shows.

If you have not been to Sportco, what are you waiting for? Take a step back in time when sales staff actually help you and take the time to fit you up.  You can see for yourself why they have remained a leading sports authority in our community for over 45 years.

So come by on Sunday for this ONE DAY ONLY celebration sale and get in on the deals. It’s the perfect time to come by and check out one of KW’s original sports store!

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Your invitation to Sportco Source for Sports 45th Anniversary       Customer Appreciation Day

Sunday November 25th, 2012

880 King Street East, Kitchener (between Ottawa & Stirling) 

10am to 5pm

 Amazing deals to be had at our annual One Day Sale!

 Sportco Source for Sports 45th AnniversaryAnnual Customer Appreciation Day!  

HOT DEALS!   QUANTITIES LIMITED!   SHOP EARLY !  

Every Item In-Stock Priced To Clear

Up To 80% Off!

Many More In-store Sales!

Black Friday Madness Hits Canada – Get out there & Save $!

OK so it’s official… Canadian retailers are finally getting in on the Black Friday action so shoppers… Start Your Engines! There are tons of deals being advertised in almost every type of retail so get out there and save.

There are many specials on electronics of all shapes and sizes — iPads, iPods, Blackberry Playbooks, Kobo readers and e-readers – so some really great Christmas shopping options. Even the Apple Store is having a sale but have yet to release details.. calling it their one-day Apple Saving Event so intriguing..

The deals are coming so fast and furious that quite frankly, I can’t keep up, so I’ve done my best to provide a compilation for you below so please click on these links for information on specific retailer that gets your motor running. My words of advice – have fun, be a smart shopper, have a budget, do your research, check return policies before making any purchases and take advantage of these sales.

If crowds aren’t your thing, wait until Cyber Monday — November 26th — which is also gearing up to be a big online shopping day. You can still score the hot deals but you get the joy of shopping in your jammies from the comfort of your home and many stores will offer free shipping.

HAPPY SHOPPING & SAVING! $$$ 

LINKS TO MORE LISTINGS..  

SMART CANUCKS  

RED FLAG DEALS

Here is a sampling of just some of the retailers listed… Bootlegger, ecco, Victoria Secret, Jacob, Mexx, Thyme Maternity, Cleo, The Bay, Toys R Us, Jean Machine, Build A Bear, Banana Repulic, Fabricland, Rona, La Senza, The Body Shop, American Eagle and more!!

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Here are some deals to get you started…

Bath & Body Works

AEROPOSTALE…

ONE DAY ONLY Aeropostale is running  massive discount of at least 50% off almost everything in the store on Friday 23 November for Black Friday.  Excludes fragrances and beauty products but no clothing seems to be excluded so a great time to shop but sales will extend into the weekend.

THE CHILDREN’s PLACE

The Children’s Place

Entire store up to 50% OFF!
Graphic Tees starting at $7
Denim starting at $12
Outerwear at 40% OFF
Fleece starting at $8
Sleepwear 25% OFF
Plus an additional sale 50% OFF lowest ticketed price!
*See in store for details*

WalMart

3 DAYS ONLY starting FRIDAY, NOV. 23 – SUNDAY, NOV. 25
** CYBER MONDAY ton Walmart.ca’s website on MONDAY, NOV. 26

* $188 for 16G  iPOD TOUCH

$374 for iPad2
* $178 for a 32 inch Emerson TV
* $199 for a Kinect 4g holiday bundle

* $88 for TASSIMO Coffee Maker
* $39 for an electric Philips Razor (Use this $20 off coupon to get this for $19!)
* $48.67 for a 9” portable DVD player

Here are the Best Buy Canada 2012 Black Friday deals!

These sales are valid November 23, 2012 only.

Cameras:

Canon, T3i 18.0 Megapixel DSLR Camera and Lens Bundle @ $749.99
Samsung ST20016.1 MP Digital Camera @ 499.99
Nikon S9300 Coolpix 16.0 MP Digital Camera @ $199.99

Televisions:

Philips 32″ 720p 60Hz LCD HDTV @ $169.99 MrsJanuary.com
Samsung 32″ 720p 60Hz LED HDTV @ $297.99
Samsung 46″ 1080p 60Hz LED HDTV @ $597.99

Cell Phones:

Samsung Galaxy S ||| 16GB @ $0 with renewal or 3 year contract
Nokia Limua 610 Prepaid Phone @ $99.99

Computers & Accessories:

Norton 360 2013 Anti Virus @ $39.99
Logitech M325 Wireless Mouse @ $17.99
Lenovo AMD Dual-Core Laptop @ $279.99 MrsJanuary.com
Linksys AC450/1300 Wireless Router @ $169.99
WD 1TB Elements Portable Hard Drive @ $69.99
Acer 2nd Generation Intel Core i5-2320 Processor @ $469.99
MacBook Pro with 2.5 GHz Intel Core i5 Processor @ $1229.99
Samsung 10.1″ Galaxy Tab 2 @ $299.99

Everything Else:

Nintendo 3DS @ $149.99
PlayStation Vita Call of Duty: Black Ops Declassified Bundle @ $199.99
Precision 10″ 100-Watt Subwoofer @ $99.99
Denon 550-Watt 5.1 Channel 3D-Ready Receiver @ $199.99
Klipsch 40″ Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer @ $499.99
24″ PlayStation 3D LED Display Package @ $149.99
iPod Nano 16GB @ $139.99 MrsJanuary.com
GoPro HD Hero2 Outdoor High-Definition Camera/Camcorder @ $179.99
Keurig Mini Single Serve Brewer @ $69.99
Gear4 Wireless Portable Speaker Dock with Speakerphone @ $49.99
Casio 76-Key Workstation Keyboard @ $169.99
Beats by Dr. Dre Headphones @ $169.99
Jabra Bluetooth Speakerphone @ $49.99
Sandisk 16GB Class 10 Ultra SDHC Memory Card @ $9.99
$50 iTunes Gift Card @ $39

Here are the Future Shop Black Friday Canada sales for 2012!

These sales are valid November 23-25, 2012.

Electronics:

Samsung 46″ E550 Series LCD TV @ $497.99
Lenovo Laptop with AMD Dual-Core AMD E-300 Processor @ $279.99
Nintendo 3DS @ $149.99
Samsung 39″ LED TV @ $397.99
LG 47″ LED TV @ $647.99
Sharp 52″ Smart LED TV @ $997.99
Yamaha 5.1-Channel Networking Receiver @ $329.99
LG Wi-Fi Smart Blu-ray Disc Player @ $69.99
Sony 400-Watt 2.1 Channel Soundbar @ $349.99
Samsung 1000-Watt 3D Blu-ray Home Theater System @ $249.99
Samsung Smart 3D Blu-ray Player @ $99.99
SanDisk 16GB Memory Card @ $9.99
Sony 18.2 Megapixel Digital Camera with Case @ $199.99
Monster In-Ear Headphones @ $79.99
Sony In-Ear Headphones @ $59.99
Nikon 10.1 Megapixel Compact System Camera Bundle @ $399.99
Contour Wearable HD Camera/Camcorder @ $99.99
Beats by Dr. Dre Solo Headphones @ $169.99
Sony 6.1″ Touchscreen Bluetooth Multimedia Car Deck @ $249.99
All Star Guitar @ $79.99
Sony 6″ Touchscreen Reader with Pottermore Bundle @ $99.99
Coby 4GB Video MP3 Player @ $19.99
MacBook Pro with 2.5GHz Intel Core i5 Processor @ $1229.99
Lenovo Laptop with 3rd Generation Intel Core i7-3520M Processor @ $649.99
2TB My Passport USB 3.0 Portable Hard Drive @ $139.99
Logitech Laser Wireless Mouse @ $17.99
Norton Antivirus @ $39.99
Lexar 32GB V10 Series USB Drive @ $14.99
Epson Wireless All-in-One Printer/Scanner/Copier @ $39.99
Linksys Wireless Router @ $169.99
Lenovo PC with VISION A6 Technology and AMD Quad-Core A6-3650 Accelerated Processor @ $379.99
2TB My book Essentials USB 3.0 Desktop External Hard Drive @ $99.99
HP Laptop AMD Quad-Core Accelerated Processor @ $499.99
Sharp 32″ LCD TV @ $197.99
Energy 5.1 Take Classic || Sound System @ $499.99
Olympus 14.0 Megapixel Digital Camera @ $99.99 MrsJanuary.com

Cell Phones:

Samsung Galazy 5 ||| 16GB Android 4.0 @ $0 with 3 Year Plan (+ $100 gift card with Telus plan)
Blackberry Curve @ $0 on the tab (+ $100 gift card)
HTC Desire C Android 4.0 @ $4 with 2 Year Plan (+ $150 gift card)
LG Optimus Net Prepaid Android 2.3 + 3.2 @ $69.99 (+ 30 activation credit)
Nokia Limia 610 Prepaid @ $99.99 (+ $20 activation credit)
Lexar 32GB microSD High Capaxity Memory Card @ $29.99
Morotola Bluetooth Speakerphone @ $59.99
Samsung Galaxy W Android 2.3 OS @ $0 on Virgin Mobile Supertab (+ $125 gift card)

Appliances:

White-Westinghouse 18.2 cu. ft. Top Mount Fridge @ $379.99
Samsung 5.9 cu. ft. Stainless Convection Oven @ $999.99
Samsung 25.5 cu. ft. Stainless Steel Side by Side Refrigerator @ $1199.99
Samsung 5.2 cu. ft. Front Load Steam Washer + 7.0. cu. ft. Steam Dryer @ $2399.98
Frigidaire 3.8 cu. ft. Front Load Washer + 7.0 cu. ft. Dryer @ $999.98
Samsung 5.2 cu. ft. HE Top Load Washer + 7.3 cu. ft. Dryer @ $1499.98
Moffat 4.0 cu. ft. Top Load Washer + 6.0 cu. ft. DuraDrum Electric Dryer @ $599.98 MJ

Everything Else

JR Home Collection Paramount Berlin Office Chair @ $139.99
4-Piece Luggage Set @ $129.99
Infared Neck Massager @ $49.99
Step ne 6 Drawer Dresser @ $189.99
Step One Full/Queen Storage Platform Bed @ $229.98
48″ Element Collection Computer Desk @ $199.99
Novotech Bedding & Pillows @ 60% off
Stand Blender, 10-Cup Drip Coffee Maker or 2-Slice Toaster @ $9.99 Mrs

The Source  CLICK FOR FLYER

These deals are valid November 23, 2012 only.

Computers & Computer Items:

13.3″ MacBook Pro @ $999
iPad Keyboard Case @ $39.98
Seagate 500GB Portable Hard Drive @ $49.99
HP Envy 6 Windows 7 Sleekbook @ $499.96
Acer Aspire Windows 7 Notebook @ $379.95
Acer One Windows 7 Netbook @ $269.99
Samsung 21.5″ Screen LED Monitor @ $99
Kingston 8GB USB Drive @ $3.92
Samsung Wireless Laster Printer @ $49.98
Epson Wireless Office Inkjet 4-in-1 Printer @ $29.32
Microsoft Office 2010 @ $88
Blackberry PlayBook @ $118.99
iPad 2 @ $369
iPad with Retina Display @ $469 (16GB), $559 (32GB), $649 (64GB)Everything Else:
Canon EOS Rebel T3 @ $399.43
Tassimo Beverage Brewer @ $59.99
XBOX 360 4GB Console & Kinect Sensor Bundle @ $199.99
Kobo Mini eReader @ $49.12
Wireless Headphones @ $19.98
iPod Touch 16GB 4th Generation @ $179
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4 @ $109.98
Omnitech 12-Sheet Cross-cut Shredder @ $29.98

Even the Thrift stores are getting in on the action…

Black Friday Sale – 50% OFF at The Salvation Army! Nov 23 & 24th Kitchener Store for sure.. I am assuming ALL stores.. can anyone confirm any other locations?

3 Local Parades Means Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town! & Toronto Too!

Everybody loves a parade and when it comes to good ol’ fashioned, FREE family fun, there really isn’t anything better. Pack up your wagon with some blankets, a few lawn chairs, a thermos of hot chocolate and a party pack of Tim Bits and you are good to go.

Park yourself in a good spot and sit back and enjoy the magic of bands, clowns, floats and Santa himself. Some of my best memories with my parents and my kids are at parades and I encourage you to get out and make some memories of your own.

This weekend, Waterloo Region welcomes Santa three times in three separate parades. With temperatures forecasted to hit 10 degrees, this is perfect parade weather so take advantage of it. Santa makes his debut at 10am in  Kitchener-Waterloo and then he’s off to enjoy the illumination magic of Cambridge’s night parade for 6pm. After some much needed beauty sleep, he’s back in Guelph for 1pm. I hope that one of these times will work for you..

And if you are really adventurous, take a trip to Toronto for the quintessential magic of the Toronto Santa Claus Parade. I have been once about 5 years ago and I highly recommend that you make the trek at least once to appreciate this legendary parade. If you just aren’t up for it, you can catch it on Global TV on Sunday afternoon from the comfort of your cozy living room.

Don’t forget.. 

Letters to Santa - Children are encouraged to bring their letters addressed to Santa, North Pole, HOH OHO, which can be given to Canada Post workers en route

Toy Drive - new unwrapped toys collected by The Waterloo Knights of Columbus (r Kitchener parade and maybe others too)  are involved in the toy drive.

Food Bank Donation- collected by local Fire Departments along the route

Kitchener Santa Claus Parade..

Saturday November 17 – Starts at 10 am  

Starts and King and Erb and runs down King to Eby

Now in it’s almost 50th year, KW’s Santa Claus Parade will kick off the Christmas season as it makes its tour though the city bringing smiles to those watching. You can expect to see 14+ bands including 2 marching bands and nearly 100 other participants from the local community. Sponsored by the local Lions Club a long with several major sponsors (Rogers TV and Conestoga Mall) and many other groups are to thank for this free public kick off to the Christmas season.

Besides welcoming the Big Guy in the Red Suit to town, you can also expect to see Jeff Allan of 570 News talk Radio this year’s Parade Grand Marshall along with all kids of local celebrities, costumed characters, clowns and more.

This one and a half hour parade, which brings much excitement and joy to not only the young but the adults, has grown in the number of participants and those who straddle King Street to watch the event.

If you can’t For those who do not have the opportunity to attend the parade, Rogers TV broadcasts live from Kitchener City Hall that special Saturday morning at 11:00.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THEIR WEBSITE

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The Cambridge Santa Claus Parade!

When: Saturday November 17, 2012

Where: Hespeler Road, Cambridge

Time: 6pm

Christmas in Cambridge kicks off Saturday November 17th with the annual night parade.

Expect a magical night filled with fun and flurries. Rumour has it Santa and Mrs. Claus are very excited to come and see all the good little girls & boys of Cambridge!  Don’t forget to bundle up warm as the parade lasts for at least an hour!  Make sure the kids write their letters to Santa as letter carriers will be collecting letters for Santa.

Parade Route: Parade starts at Hespeler Rd and Dunbar Rd.  It will then travel down Hespeler Rd to Langs Drive where the parade will end.

Best Place to Watch the Parade: Historically the busiest section of the parade route is between Dunbar Rd and Bishop St.  There are a lot of great plaza’s to park in from Bishop to Langs Dr that people forget about!  Those are fantastic spots to get an excellent view of Santa!

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The Santa Claus Parade needs you !

2012 GUELPH COMMUNITY SANTA CLAUS PARADE

Sunday November 18

1:30 pm – 2:30 pm

VIEW THE PARADE ROUTE

Starting at Woolwich and London Road, the parade will move and groove it’s way through downtown Guelph.  With disco dancing polar bears and penguins doing the hustle, this promises to be the coolest parade yet.

CLICK HERE FOR PARADE ROUTE

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TORONTO PARADE

100+ Years of Smiles

You can expect more than 25 animated floats with themes ranging from Harry Potter to Hockey Night in Canada. More than 200 Celebrity Clowns lead the Parade and raise about $200,000 annually, while around 2,000 costumed participants march happily through Toronto’s streets. Toronto police have asked Parade organizers to extend the route by one mile in order to spread out the crowds of spectators.

Toronto’s Santa Claus Parade is the longest running children’s Parade in the world and is broadcast across North America and as far away as New Zealand, Norway and Ireland.

CLICK HERE To go to the Official Facebook Page..

Click here for HANDY TIPS TO MAKE YOUR DAY SMOOTH… including where to park, what time to go, subway stops, best places to view, wheelchair accessibility, etc… 

Take Time to Remember on November 11th – Local Ceremonies & Ideas for Children

There are many local Remembrance Day ceremonies taking place across the Region tomorrow on Sunday November 11th. Please take time to remember this important day and those individuals who have dedicated their lives to military service and in some cases, made the ultimate sacrifice, to make Canada the wonderful free place that it is today.  Most of these ceremonies include a parade of veterans where you and your children can show your respect by applauding to them on their way.

There are many other ways to get your child involved in Remembrance Day and I strongly encourage you to do so in whatever way is age appropriate. I had the pleasure of attending my children’s elementary school ceremony the other day and it was amazingly moving. They invited a young soldier who has finished two tours of Afghanistan and had lost close friends. He spoke about the dangers of war and impressed upon the children that war is nothing like the video games they play or the movies they see.  He let them know that war is not good but that it is necessary to help others who can’t fight for their own freedom like the little girls in Afghanistan he spoke of.  He made being a soldier very real and it had the kids full attention. This school ceremony delivered important, powerful messages in simple ways and included a bagpiper, the playing of taps, the singing of Let There Be Peace on Earth and the reciting of Flanders Fields. The children understood and I was very impressed.

There are other simple ways to share the messages of Remembrance Day.

• Wear a poppy and talk about it’s importance
• Print out some Remembrance Day colouring pages.
• (CLICK HERE)    http://www.jumbocoloring.info/remembrance-day-coloring-pages_1p202.html
• Write a letter, postcard or greeting card to our troops. This address will get to troops in Afghanitstan

Any Canadian Forces Member
Op Athena
PO Box 5058 Stn Forces
Belleville ON   K8N 5W6

• Post a message on this online bulletin board for our troops. Let the kids use their own words and just say thank you.

LINK - http://www.forces.gc.ca/site/Commun/message/index-eng.asp

LOCAL CEREMONIES

• Kitchener

Royal Canadian Legion, Fred Gies branch 50: ceremony at the Kitchener cenotaph, at the corner of Frederick and Duke streets downtown, beginning at 10:30 a.m. Area streets will be closed for the duration of the ceremony. (Rogers TV will be covering the parade).

 • Waterloo

Royal Canadian Legion branch 530: parade leaves legion hall 10 a.m., marches along Regina Street 10 a.m., and marches to the Waterloo cenotaph at city hall for a 10:15 a.m. ceremony.

CAMBRIDGE

• Cambridge (Galt) — Royal Canadian Legion branch 121: parade marches away at 9:45 a.m. from legion, 4 Veteran’s Way. Services start 10:30 at Galt cenotaph on Queen’s Square.

 • Cambridge (Hespeler) — Royal Canadian Legion branch 272: service begins at 10:30 a.m. at the Tannery and Queen street cenotaph; reception follows at the Schofield Street legion hall

 • Cambridge (Preston) — Royal Canadian Legion branch 126: parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the legion hall at Westminster Drive and Margaret Street, and will continue down Westminster Drive to King Street and Argyle Street to the cenotaph. The parade will return along Argyle Street to Duke Street to Westminster Drive.

• Wilmot Township (New Hamburg) — Royal Canadian Legion branch 532: parade forms at 1:30 p.m. at Mark Jutzi Funeral Home, 291 Huron St., with a 2 p.m. service at the New Hamburg Arena, on Boullie Street.

IN FLANDERS FIELDS

by Lieutenant Colone John McCrae

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
      Between the crosses, row on row,
   That mark our place; and in the sky
   The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
   Loved and were loved, and now we lie
         In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
   The torch; be yours to hold it high.
   If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
         In Flanders fields.