Community

Summer is coming to a close, but there’s still time for one last road trip! Follow our suggestions to stay within your budget, wherever the journey takes you. Travel Light It’s tempting to over-pack when traveling by car. Bringing only the essentials pays off. An excess of 100 pounds in the trunk of your car cuts fuel economy by one to two percent. Stock Up On Snacks Planning ahead and bringing along a stash of your favorite travel-friendly treats usually result in major savings. Items purchased in convenience stores are often marked up much higher than at local grocery stores Use Mobile Apps To Save On Gas and Hotels Apps like GasBuddy help calculate fuel costs and compare prices ...

The weather isn’t the only thing heating up this month. We’ve rounded up some hot deals you won’t want to miss. House Paint You’ll find major paint markdowns this month. From “buy one, get one” specials to 40% off sales, if you’ve been thinking about trying a new color, now is the time. Ready for more great news? Your unopened paint will last up to ten years. Produce Enjoy fresh veggies and fruits at the very best prices this month. Why? Summertime is high season for a variety of produce. Tip: When you find a great deal on produce you love—like peppers or green beans—wash, chop and freeze them. Enjoy the savings for months to come. Suits Besides jeans and winter ...

Take a look at our three great party tricks guaranteed to make your red, white and beautiful gathering a real sparkler. Fruit Flag Skewers This festive snack couldn’t be easier to assemble. Follow our simple design to create a tasty Old Glory. Thread blueberries, mini-marshmallows, and raspberries onto 10-inch wooden skewers to form a flag. Patriotic Punch We love this recipe from Big Bear’s Wife that is simple, yet festive.  Layer cranberry juice, Gatorade Frost, diet lemon-lime soda and ice cubes in a large container. Painted Lawn Stars Wow your guests with this easy and inexpensive tutorial for painted lawn stars. Don't worry; these twinklers won't hurt your ...

You don’t have to spend a fortune to show your dad how much you love him this year. Here are three priceless ideas that won’t cost you a dime. Give Dad A Day Off Take over a chore—or two—so Dad can kick back and relax. Whether it’s taking out the trash, cleaning the car, or mowing the yard, he will appreciate the break. Spend Quality Time Together Put away your phone and any other technology that may distract you. Dedicate a day to doing things with your dad. Go fishing, hiking, or take interest in a hobby he enjoys. Count The Reasons Everyone thinks their dad is the best, but you know yours is. Does he? Record some of your favorite memories. Include the qualities your Dad ...

From frozen treats to big screen entertainment, June is full of cool deals. Check out our favorite ways to shop and save this month: Frozen Treats You’ll find tons of great buys on your favorite frozen foods during this June’s national salute to frozen foods. Most items you score will last up to six months in your freezer. Fill your market basket with super buys to enjoy now and later. Dishware Wedding season is in full swing; and, in a bid to land on registries, many houseware companies slash prices. No worries. You don’t have to say, “I do” to take advantage of up to 50% off a new set of china. Tools With Father’s Day falling right in the middle of June, look for great ...

Why leave town for a vacation when you can have just as much fun (and save quite a bit of cash) with a stay-cation!  Here’s the agenda: Visit Popular Spots Walk through the Birmingham Botanical Gardens and take in the themed gardens. Not a fan of flowers?  Visit the Birmingham Zoo, Museum of Art or even the Sports Hall of Fame. Be A Foodie Eat like a tourist and visit a restaurant you’ve never tried before. Need a good place to start?  Try this list of Birmingham’s newest restaurants. Get In Touch With Nature Head off the beaten path and enjoy all nature has to offer by hiking Ruffner Mountain.  Only 10-miles northeast of Birmingham, this 1,038-acre nature ...

Mother’s Day is right around the corner. If you’re having a hard time coming up with a perfect gift, we’ve got you covered. Regardless of your budget! Try A Subscription ($$$) There are great subscription services available, no matter what your Mom’s interests. Plated will appeal to any Mom who loves to cook, without the hassle and stress of grocery shopping. Once Upon a Book Club is a perfect fit for the avid reader. Floral Of The Month delights a fresh flower connoisseur. Treat Mom To An Experience ($$) Looking for the guaranteed-to-delight gift, other than flowers and chocolate? Book an activity you can do with your Mom.  Buy a membership to Birmingham Botanical ...