Some of these deals are only good this week, so pay attention to the expiration dates!

Olive Garden is offering 20% off lunch purchases now through Friday with this printable coupon from their Facebook page.  Lunch hours end at 4 p.m., so the coupon is only eligible until that time. Just click “Get offer” and the coupon will be emailed to the address you’ve registered with Facebook.

Hardee’s just released this printable coupon offering free small hashrounds and free small coffee with the purchase of a bacon bacon biscuit. This coupon is valid through September 15.

Waffle House currently has this printable coupon up for grabs, offering a free soft drink. This coupon expires on August 1.

Red Lobster is still offering $10 off any two adult dinner entrees with this printable coupon. This coupon expires on August 5.

Sam’s Club will be hosting an open house this weekend, August 3 – 5, coinciding with Virginia’s tax holiday.

Friday through Sunday, non-members can make purchases at the store without the customary 10 percent service fee, according to an email from Mark Scott, Manager of Public Relations for Sam’s Club.

Sam’s Club has plenty of merchandise that qualifies as tax exempt, both clothes and school supplies, so this is a great opportunity to try out the Club if you’ve been considering a membership.

The retailer will also have special packages for college-bound students, like the Wake-Up Bundle, which includes a Keurig Signature Brewer, Donut House Coffee, Caribou Blend Coffee and an iHome alarm clock radio for iPad/iPhone/iPod for $276, or the Supplies Bundle, which includes a Visio Tablet, SwissGear laptop daypack, a 40-piece set of writing instruments from Bic, Post-It Notes and writing pads for $249.

Additionally, if your student signs up for a Collegiate Membership for $40, they’ll receive a $15 gift card, discounts on textbooks.com and an extra card for a lucky roommate or study partner.

For more information, visit Sam’s Club online.

To brush up on what’s included in this weekend’s tax holiday, click here.

Today’s papers are heavier than some we’ve had recently — which means good things are tucked inside for bargain hunters!

There are tons of coupons this week. Redplum, P&G Brandsaver and SmartSource all make appearances. There are also some awesome Target store coupons — combine them with manufacturer coupons for huge savings.

First of all, let me run through the best back to school deals. Remember, this coming Friday – Sunday are part of a tax free holiday on qualifying school supply and apparel purchases. Read up on the details here.

Walgreens is offering Mead Five Star notebooks buy one, get one free. Other deals for $1 and under include: Sharpie highlighters, BIC pens, Ticonderoga pencils and Fiskars pencil sharpeners for 99 cents; colored pencils for 69 cents; Wexford glue sticks for 49 cents; index cards and pencil cases for 39 cents; scissors for 49 cents; and portfolios 3/$1.

Target has Paper Mate erasers and pens, RoseArt water colors and markers, wooden pencils and pencil sharpeners for $1 each this week. For $3 you can get Pentel colored pencils, three-subject Mead notebooks and Elmer’s glue sticks. For $2 you can get 1″ binders, Crayola crayons, pencil cases, and one-subject notebooks.

CVS has these products buy one, get on 50% off: BIC pens, markers and wite-out; G2 and B2P pens; select Caliber stationary; and all Post-It and Scotch Tape products. For $1 you can get composition books, scissors, pencil boxes, wooden pencils, rulers, high lighters and one-subject notebooks. Also, if you spend $15 on Crayola products, Five Start notebooks or select Expo or Paper Mate products you’ll receive $3 in ExtraBucks.

Kmart has all back packs 25% off and all lunch kits regularly $11.99 to $12.99 marked down to $9.99. Additionally, when you buy any backpack, messenger or sling, you’ll get a free cinch sack ($5.99 value). There are also these $1 deals: Crayola markers and colored pencils, Sharpie markers, pencil boxes, Paper Mate pencils, index cards and composition books.

Kroger has some back to school deals of their own for under $1. Top Flight spiral notebooks are 19 cents, Crayola crayons are 39 cents, Top Flight composition books are 50 cents and Office Works pencils are 50 cents. You’ll also find lunch kits for 25% off.

Toys R Us is having Crayola Dollar Days this week. Crayons are 4/$1; colored pencils, scissors and the Beginning Alphabet and Numbers pad are $1 each; construction paper, large crayons and art smocks are $2 each; dry erase markers, washable markers, jumbo crayons and colored pencils are $3 each; and Pip-Squeaks, 64-count crayons, Twistables and watercolors are $4 each.
Shoppers can also get a free lunch kit when they buy any backpack priced $12.99 or more.

Office Max has free crayons, a ruler and a pencil sharpener (up to 2 of each) available to shoppers after they spend $5 in the store this week. You can really stock up with so many deals for $1 or less at the retailer this week. Dixon #2 pencils and Paper Mate pens are 10 cents; Office Max glue sticks, folders, binder pockets and filler paper are 5o cents; Office Max folders and one-subject notebooks are $1; and Schoolio index cards are $2. There are also numerous BOGO deals and bargains under $10.
One especially good offer is the offer for Swissgear backpacks. You’ll pay $69.99 for the backpack, but receive $69.98 back in MaxPerks rewards — that’s like getting the bag for one cent! If you’re a regular Office Max shopper this is a great deal. 

Staples has some great deals for $1 or less this week, plus a new coupon offering $5 off a purchase of $50 or more. Paper clips, folders, pocket tissues and 1″ binders are only one cent; BIC mechanical pencils and Prang chalk are only 25 cents; and composition books and one-subject notebooks are only 50 cents.
There’s also a notice of Teacher Appreciation Day, which is happening in Roanoke stores on Aug. 18. On this day teachers who come in to shop will receive a free gift bag and a coupon for additional savings.

At Kmart this week you can get a coupon good for $10 off grocery, health and beauty purchases when you purchase $30 worth of P&G products. You could really stock up thanks to the P&G coupons in today’s paper.
Shoppers can also get a coupon for a free flu shot with a qualifying purchase of $100 or more. There are also freebies with purchase throughout the store.

Kroger has new 10/$10 deals throughout the store, and a Cart Buster Savings Event with big savings on popular products like Coca-Cola drinks, Brownberry Bread, Keebler Cookies, Pop-Tarts, Hillshire Farm lunch meat, Chobani yogurt, MorningStar Farms entrees, Eggo waffles and more.

CVS has a $10 rebate offer for shoppers who purchase $30 of Olay products, good through Aug. 31. There are also some big BOGO deals throughout the store. Some participating brands include: Aveeno, Listerine, Rembrandt, Johnson’s, Neutrogena and Visine.

Belk is having an August Home Sale now through Tuesday. In addition to the sale prices, there’s a coupon good for an extra 15% off your entire regular and sale priced home purchases.

Target is having an End of Summer Sale this week and apparel for the family has been marked down. There are also numerous free gift cards available with select purchases. One of my favorite deals this week is on iTunes gift cards — they’re 15% off this week at the retailer. That’s like free music!

Walgreens has a reminder about their August coupon books, which you can find in stores. These books have over $370 in store coupons, which is huge.
Throughout the rest of the store there are great BOGO deals. Some participating brands include Nature’s Bounty, Maybelline, Covergirl, Dove, Caress and more. 

Kohl’s has 3-day specials starting today. Shoppers will get $10 in Kohl’s Cash for every $50 spent. Additionally, if you open a Kohl’s charge in-store from today through Tuesday you’ll get an extra 20% off your first day’s purchases.

Dick’s Sporting Goods has men’s Walter Hagen polos buy one, get one free — that’s a savings of $50. Shoppers will also receive a $10 cash card with a backpack purchase of $59.99 or more now through August 4.

Rack Room Shoes has a new coupon good for $10 off a $60 purchase this week. Combine it with their everyday buy one, get one half-off deal for the most savings.

In the JC Penney ad you’ll find another reminder about the free kids’ haircuts for the month of August. Book yours now before time runs out!

Sears has a coupon good today through Aug. 4 offering an extra 15% off clothing and accessories (plus an extra 5% off with a Sears card), or an extra 10% off intimates, footwear, home fashions, housewares, fine jewelry, watches and luggage (plus an extra 5% off with a Sears card).
Combine this coupon with the sale prices throughout the store for the biggest savings.

Don’t miss the coupon on the back of the Toys R Us ad this week — you could save $8 on all Pampers value boxes of diapers with it.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.

From now until they run out, JC Penney will be giving shoppers a free “Go USA” T-shirt with any in-store purchase.

There are sizes for men, women and kids, but only a limited supply of each.

Enjoy this fun freebie just in time for the Olympic games, which officially open tonight in London.

Today’s papers are heavier than some we’ve had recently — which means good things are tucked inside for bargain hunters!

There are tons of coupons this week.. You could find up to four coupon booklets, plus some special store coupons from a certain retailer.

Remember, this coming Friday – Sunday are part of a tax free holiday on qualifying school supply and apparel purchases. Read up on the details here.

Walgreens, Target, CVS , Kmart , Kroger , Toys R Us , Office Max and Staples all have big back to school deals.

Also, at Kmart this week you can get a coupon good for $10 off grocery, health and beauty purchases  with select purchases, plus there are also freebies with purchase throughout the store.

Kroger will have new 10/$10 deals throughout the store, plus a Cart Buster Savings Event.

There will be a special rebate offer at CVS , plus some big BOGO deals.

Belk starts its August Home Sale on Sunday, and there’s a coupon for extra savings in the paper.

Target starts its End of Summer Sale Sunday, with some especially good prices on apparel. There’s also a sweet deal on gift cards.

Remember to look for the August coupon book at Walgreens . Also check out the BOGO deals come Sunday. 

Kohl’s has 3-day specials starting Sunday.

Dick’s Sporting Goods has a great deal in men’s apparel starting Sunday, plus a special promotion on backpacks.

Rack Room Shoes will have a new coupon on Sunday.

In the JC Penney ad you’ll find another reminder about the free kids’ haircuts for the month of August. Book yours now before time runs out!

Sears will also have a coupon that will get you extra savings in addition to sales prices starting Sunday.

And don’t miss the coupon on the back of the Toys R Us ad.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.

Earthbound Farm Organic sends out coupons for fresh produce almost daily in their email newsletter. Learn where to sign up below.

Here are a few printable coupons to help you power through the rest of this week.

*Red Lobster has this printable coupon good for $10 off any two adults entrees — even the Four Course Seafood Feast. Just visit the restaurant’s Facebook page to claim the offer, which is good through August 5.

* Pilot Travel Centers has another great coupon for anyone on the go. Visit the store’s Facebook page you’ll find a coupon good for a free hot or cold beverage. This coupon is good through August 31.

* Shoe Carnival has just released a printable coupon offering $5 off a purchase of $39.98 or higher. This is perfect timing for back to school shoppers! This coupon is good through September 4.

* McDonald’s still has this printable coupon available offering smoothies, frappes, Chillers and frozen lemonade buy one, get one free. This coupon expires July 31.

* Sonic is offering a free small order of tots when you buy a premium beef hotdog with this printable coupon. This coupon is good through August 10.

Produce coupons are pretty rare, but they’re wonderful when they come along.

* Click here to access a printable coupon offering a free avocado when you buy four. This coupon is good through October 16.

* I recently signed up for the Earthbound Farm Organic newsletter. Now, I receive coupons for fresh produce, like spinach and other greens, almost daily. If you pair these coupons, some of which have been as much as 75 cents off, with any clearance prices you could save a ton. Click here to sign up.

Ready or not, it’s almost time to go back to school. Prepare to see kids everywhere rolling their eyes and bemoaning the task in the coming weeks, but the time has come to start shopping for school supplies and clothes.

To help you save a few bucks, keep in mind that Virginia’s tax holiday for school supplies and clothing is next weekend, Aug. 3-5. Throughout the weekend, qualifying school supplies of $20 or less and qualifying clothes and footwear of $100 or less will be exempt from sales tax.

Some clothing purchases that are excluded consist of sporting equipment and footwear used primarily for athletic activities, as well as clothing designed for protective use and not considered appropriate for everyday use. Accessories are also excluded from the sales tax holiday.

Some products you may consider school supplies do not qualify as tax-exempt products.

Computers and computer supplies, defined by the Virginia Department of Taxation as “items commonly used by a student in a course of study in which a computer is used,” and textbooks are not tax-exempt.

However, school art and music supplies are considered school supplies and won’t incur sales tax.

Rebates that lower the price of an item cannot be used to make a product tax-exempt. For example, if a pair of shoes is priced at $120 and the manufacturer is offering a $20 rebate (to be mailed after purchase), the shoes are still not tax-exempt despite their after-rebate price of $100.

There are also some special guidelines for exchanges, layaway, rain checks and returns.

If you need to exchange an item purchased over the sales tax holiday, you will not owe sales tax on the new item.

Qualifying purchases put on layaway over the holiday will be exempt from sales tax, and any future payments on the layaway order are also exempt.

Rain checks that are paid for after the tax holiday are not tax-exempt. However, if an item is paid for during the sales tax holiday but delivered at a later date, it is still exempt.

Make sure you hold on to your receipt after making any supply purchases past Aug. 4. For 60 days after the tax holiday, any returns on tax-exempt products without a receipt will not receive credit for sales tax.

The only way to receive a refund for the price of the item plus any sales tax paid is to present an invoice or receipt. This applies to purchases made before and after the sales tax holiday.

Phone, Internet and mail orders are also affected by the holiday.

Qualifying purchases made via phone, Internet or mail order can be considered tax-exempt if the customer pays for the order and the seller accepts it for immediate shipment during the tax holiday (which excludes custom orders).

During the sales tax holiday, retailers may also absorb the sales tax on other products, so keep any eye out for those deals as well.

For more information on the sales tax holiday, visit http://tax.virginia.gov or call the Virginia Department of Taxation at 804-367-8037.

To see a full list of tax-exempt items, click here.

Thursday, July 26 will be a good day for the “Tea Freaks” among us — i’ts Free Tea Day at McAlister’s Deli.

One of the things the deli is known for are it’s large cups of brewed tea, and you can get one (sweetened or unsweetened) just for coming in on Thursday. There’s no purchase or coupon required to get this deal.

For more information or to find the McAlister’s Deli closest to you, click here.

Ease the pain of Monday with this foodie deal, it could make for a cheap lunch or dinner.

In honor of its 48th anniversary, Arby’s restaurants are offering Classic Roast Beef sandwiches for only 64 cents today.

However, to get the deal you must bring in this printable coupon.

Enjoy!

Love or hate JC Penney’s new format (it’s still a popular issue), you can’t argue with this deal.

The entire month of August JC Penney salons will be giving free hair cuts to kids in Kindergarten through 6th grade.

An appointment is necessary to take advantage of this deal, so book yours before all the slots are filled!

Click here to find a location near you.

I hope you’ve had a great weekend, but it’s time to get down to business and start clipping.

Both Redplum and Smartsource have coupon booklets available today.

Retailers are in full-on back to school mode. Classes start in a few weeks, so hit up these sales and start stocking up.

Target has Crayola colored pencils, Mead folders and notebooks, Elmer’s glue and BIC pencils all for 99 cents. Most Up & Up school supplies are $3 or less, including index cards, pencil cases, tape, sticky notes, binders, notebooks, scissors and filler paper.
You can also get a free Embark lunch kit when you buy an Embark Jartop backpack.

Office Max has another coupon good for $5 off of a purchase of $25 or more this week. Some supplies that are on sale include index cards ($1), pencil boxes ($1), scissors ($1), folders and notebooks ($1), dry erase boards ($2), staplers ($3), five-subject notebooks ($3) and more.
Crayola, Expo and Sharpie products are buy two, get one free.

Staples has a coupon available, too. Their offer is $5 off a purchase of $30 or more. Some of the supplies on sale this week include Zebra pencils (FREE after rebate), Pentel pens (FREE after rebate), pink cap erasers (1 cent), index cards (1 cent), sticky flags (25 cents), Sharpie highlighters (50 cents), Post-it notes ($1), notebooks ($2), glue ($1), RoseArt markers or paints ($1) and more.
Don’t forget, if you pick up a Back to School Pass for $10, you’ll save 15% on binders, notebooks, backpacks and more until Sept. 15.

Walgreens is still offering a free $25 gift card to customers who transfer their prescriptions to their pharmacy, just bring in the coupon from this week’s ad to claim your freebie.
There are some great BOGO freebies this week, too. Some include: Foster Grant reading glasses, batteries, Blue Diamond almonds, binders, backpacks, Clear Eyes, Nexcare, and more.
There are also tons of buy one, get one half-off deals. Combine all of these sales with coupons (manufacturer and store) for the best price.

Check out the CVS ad, where you’ll find tons of buy one, get one half-off deals on school supplies. Some participating products include backpacks, lunch boxes, scissors, notebooks, binders, blue, pens, erasers, composition books, Crayola products, Scotch tape and Sharpie markers.
This week there’s also an awesome deal on gift cards — do I need to reiterate how great gift card bargains are? It’s like free money, literally. When you spend $25 on any iTunes or Spa & Wellness gift cards, you’ll get $5 back in ExtraBucks.
Also, if you spend $30 or more on select summer items (beach chairs, goggles, Off spray, etc.) you’ll get a free $10 gas card.

Big Lots has big back to school deals, too. Composition books, index cards, and pencils are 39 cents; two-pocked folders are 49 cents; mechanical pencils, pencil pouches, portfolios and erasers are $1; backpacks are $9; Thermos lunch kits are $5 and more. The retailer also has just about everything you need for dorm living on sale. 

A.C. Moore may not be the first place you think of when it comes to back to school shopping, but they have some bargains this week as well. All Crayola products are 40% off, and you can get backpacks for $5 to $7.99. There are also book covers, highlighters, erasers, pencils and pencil boxes for $1.
While you’re there, pick up some fun crafty items to help your kids forget school isn’t too far off — many items are 40% off.
There are also coupons:
* 57% off + 10% off custom framing
* 50% off a regular priced item
* 40% off any regular priced item

Trick the kids into shopping for school by taking them to Toys R Us. The retailer has Crayola products buy one, get one free. Also, Thermos, Fit & Fresh and Zak food containers, Gelarti crafts and Totally Me! crafts are all buy one, get one half-off.
You can still get a free lunch kit when you purchase any backpack priced $12.99 or more, too.
Fans of Batman will love the free Batman backpack they can get when select Dark Knight Rises purchases are made.

Kmart has Crayola, RoseArt, Elmer’s, rulers and pencils all for 50 cents, plus dry erase markers, binders, pens and notebooks for $2.
Also, clearance apparel is an additional 40% off.

Sears has apparel for the family on sale this week, plus coupons to help you save more.
The coupon this week will save you an extra 15% off clothing, intimates, accessories, fragrances, cosmetics, footwear, fine jewelry, luggage and home fashions, or an extra 10% off small kitchen electrics, cookware, ready to assemble furniture and personal care.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.

I hope you’ve had a great weekend, but it’s time to get down to business and start clipping — there will be two coupon booklets on Sunday, plus loads of back to school deals from retailers.

Target has tons of supplies for $3 or less, plus an opportunity to earn a free lunch kit.

Office Max will have another coupon available, plus BOGO and $3-and-under deals.

Staples will have a coupon, too, as well as some freebies. Don’t forget, if you pick up a Back to School Pass for $10, you’ll save 15% on binders, notebooks, backpacks and more until Sept. 15.

Walgreens will have another opportunity to get a free gift card, plus plenty of BOGO freebies and deals.

Similarly, the CVS ad is full of BOGO merchandise and a special deal on gift cards. There are also new items participating in the free gas card promotion.

Big Lots has big back to school deals, too. This ad could be especially attractive for anyone heading to college. 

A.C. Moore may not be the first place you think of when it comes to back to school shopping, but they’ll have some bargains next week too. You can also treat yourself to some of the other sale items throughout the store. Of course there are coupons to look forward to as well.

Trick the kids into shopping for school by taking them to Toys R Us. There are BOGO deals, plus the chance to get a free lunch kit OR backpack.

Kmart will have plenty of supplies for  $2 or less, plus a great deal on clearance apparel.

Sears will have apparel for the family on sale, plus coupons so you can save even more.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.

Rebates are a great alternative to coupons when it comes to saving money. They can lead to free or discounted products, plus it feels great to have companies paying you to buy their products.

You do need, however, to be careful when it comes to using rebates. If you don’t follow the rules closely, you won’t get anything in return.

Here are some tips to ensure you get your check in the mail:

Keep track of due dates. If a store is advertising a rebate special, be sure you can complete the required actions in the allotted time. If a specific product is offering a rebate, make sure the package isn’t outdated and advertising an expired rebate.

Don’t trash the packaging. Before you toss any boxes or containers, make sure you don’t need an additional proof of purchase besides your receipt. Some rebates require specially marked products and you may be required to send in additional information. It’s also wise to make copies of your materials before mailing them off.

Read the fine print. Some rebates allow the use of coupons, which means you may make more money than you originally spent. I’ve recently taken advantage of a Neutrogena rebate that allowed coupons. However, in some cases coupons or other discounts are prohibited. Know the rules before you head to the register.

Pay attention to your shopping cart. If you have multiple items that are eligible for rebates remember to pay for them separately and get separate receipts. Generally reproductions of receipts are not accepted for rebates.

Don’t let your check expire. Once you complete your rebate successfully and get your check in the mail, open it and look for an expiration date. Often rebate checks are only valid for a short time.

Follow-up if you don’t receive your check. Usually there is a phone number for questions and concerns listed on the rebate form or product packaging. If you don’t receive your check in the specified number of weeks listed, don’t hesitate to call and follow up. The company could be experiencing high demand that has set them back or there could be a problem with your request.

Only buy products you really want or need. Rebates are a great way to try new products for little or no cost, but keep the worst-case scenario in mind — no check. If the product will put any hardship on your financial situation, reconsider the purchase.

It’s important to look for rebates everywhere. You can find cash-back opportunities for just about anything. In the past year I’ve received checks in the mail for purchasing wine, beef, makeup and a variety of Proctor & Gamble products. Keep an eye out for specially marked packages, tags, stickers and retail advertisements altering you to rebate promotions.

Share your tips and experiences with rebates in the comments section below.

Scott Brand (known for paper towels, toilet tissue, etc.) has a great promotion going on now.

Head over to Scott Shared Values, where you can sign up by answering a few short questions.

After you’ve signed up, Scott will reward you with coupons for Scott products, plus a Free Family Fun Pass. This pass will get you and your family free entry to a local attraction.

With a quick search, I found that locally Skate Center of the Roanoke Valley, Star City Skate Center, and Firehouse Skate ‘N Play are all participating.

Treat the kids to a special (and cheap) day with the family before school starts!

Marvel is giving away a free digital copy of the classic comic “The Amazing Spider-Man #1″ here.

This is a fun freebie any fans of the movies, cartoons or other comics will appreciate.

I saw the most recent Spider-Man movie this past weekend and was very impressed, so this deal is very timely.

Know of any other great freebies out there? Share them!

We’re right in the thick of July, and what better way to beat the heat than by shopping in the AC? There are plenty of bargains out there to be hunted.

Here’s the best of today’s paper:

SmartSource has a coupon booklet full of high dollar coupons.

Target has some special coupons available this week, especially if you have a kid about to hit the road for college.
*$5 off a Dirt Devil Easy Lite Cyclonic Quick Vac
*$10 off the Emerson dry-erase fridge
*$5 off a Room Essentials bungee chair
*$5 off a Room Essentials bookcase
There are also a lot of free gift cards available with select purchases:
*$20 when you buy an iPod touch
*$10 when you buy an iPod nano 8GB
*$25 when you buy an iPad
*$25 when you buy a Wii system bundle
*$10 when you buy a DSi system
*$15 when you reserve Just Dance 4 and buy any other Just Dance game
*$10 when you buy two select Enfamil items
*$5 when you buy10 SoBe drinks
*$5 when you buy two select K-cup packs
*$5 when you buy two select Viva, Huggies, Cottonelle or Scott items
*$5 when you buy three select laundry care items

Walgreens is ready for the kids to go back to school, and they are prepared with big deals under $5.
*Wexford or Penway school supplies, 39 cents
*Wexford or Penway notebooks, 49 cents
*Composition books, 69 cents
*Backpacks, $3.99
*Elmer’s glue, 79 cents (with coupon)
*Wexford two-pocket folders, 6/$1 (with coupon)
*Filler paper, $1.59
*Multi-purpose paper, $2.99
Also, when you order contact lenses through Walgreens.com, you can get 20% off with the code 20EYES.

Office Max has some great back to school bargains again this week. Here’s a taste of some of the best:
*Three-fastener folders, zipper binder pocket and .14 liter storage boxes, 50 cents
*Wide- or college-ruled notebooks, $1
*Purell hand sanitizer, 50 cents
*Three-ring binders, $1
*Ballpoint pens, 25 cents
*8 GB flash drive, $7.99
*Crayola crayons, Office Max glue and scissors, $1
*Post-its, Office Max staplers or hole punches and BIC pens, $2
*10-pocket organizers, Scotch tape, gel ink pens and five-subject notebooks, $3

Staples has plenty of back to school deals again, as well. Here are a few:
*Avery tab dividers, 1″ binders or writing pads, 1 cent
*BIC mechanical pencils, FREE (after rebate)
*BIC pens, 25 cents
*Westcott rulers, 50 cents
*Pencil boxes, 50 cents
*Multipurpose paper, $1 (after rebate)
*Clip boards, $1
*8GB flash drive, $5.99
Additionally, you can save $2 on the purchase of a new binder for each old binder you bring in to recycle (no limit).
To save on school supplies all year long, pick up a School Savings Pass for $10. With the card you can save 15% on binders, notebooks, backpacks and more through Sept. 15.

Kohl’s introduces its new Princess by Vera Wang line for juniors this week, and to celebrate you can get the merchandise for 30% off.
Throughout the store, you can save 15%, 20% or 30% off your purchase by using your Kohl’s charge. All shoppers will be rewarded with $10 in Kohl’s Cash for every $50 spent.
Today only you’ll find all-day doorbuster savings throughout the store.

Kroger recently released a new plan to use locally grown produce in many of its stores (you can read more about that on Lindsey Nair’s Fridge Magnet blog). In this week’s ad you’ll see a little bit about the Jackson Farm in Fayetteville, NC, as well as some great bargains in the product department.
*Sprite melons, 10/$10
*Cucumbers, 2/$1
*Zucchini and squash, 99 cents/lb.
*Eggplant and green beans, 99 cents/lb.
Throughout the rest of the store, look for these deals:
*Tyson whole fryer, 88 cents/lb.
*Pepsi or 7Up soft drinks, 3/$9 (must buy 3)
*Muller FrutUp yogurt, 10/$10
*Nabisco crackers, 2/$4
*Gatorade, 79 cents
There are also new items participating in the buy 10, save $5 instantly promotion, so look out for the special tags.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.

Even though it still feels steamy outside, July has cooled off a bit since last week. If you still have a fridge or freezer to stock from losing power, you might from some relief in the coupons headed your way on Sunday.

Here are some hints on the other deals coming in on Sunday:

Target will have some special coupons available that kids prepping for dorm living will appreciate. There are also a lot of free gift cards with purchase available next week.

Walgreens is ready for the kids to go back to school, and they are prepared with big deals under $5. There will also be an opportunity to save on contact lens orders.

Office Max and Staples also have plenty of back to school deals, many under $5. Staples will also release details on how you can continue saving on school merchandise through September.

Kohl’s introduces its new Princess by Vera Wang line for juniors this week, and to celebrate you can get the merchandise for 30% off.
Throughout the store, you can save 15%, 20% or 30% off your purchase by using your Kohl’s charge. All shoppers will be rewarded with $10 in Kohl’s Cash for every $50 spent.
Sunday only you’ll find all-day doorbuster savings throughout the store.

Kroger has great prices on local produce next week (you can read more about that on Lindsey Nair’s Fridge Magnet blog), as well as some new products participating in the buy 10, save $5 promotion.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.

Tomorrow (July 13) only from noon to 3 p.m. participating Starbucks locations will be offering free tall Refreshers. You can choose between Cool Lime or Very Berry Hibiscus to sweeten the end of your week.

Call ahead to make sure your favorite location is participating.

While you’re out, don’t forget to pick up your free Chick-fil-A and 75 cent Krispy Kreme doughnuts!

Tomorrow, July 13, Krispy Kreme is celebrating its 75th birthday. In honor of the occassion, customers can get one dozen doughnuts for 75 cents when they buy a dozen at full price.

Call ahead to make sure your favorite location is participating, or print out this flier to take with you.

This deal could make your coworkers or family very happy in the morning!

Also, don’t forget about Cow Appreciation Day, which is happening at Chick-fil-A on Friday as well.

Dress like a cow, eat for free. Photo courtesy of Chick-Fil-A.com.

This Friday, July 13, Chick-fil-A is celebrating Cow Appreciation Day. So what does that mean for hungry customers?

Customers dressed in full cow attire will be rewarded with a free Chick-fil-A meal (breakfast, lunch or dinner), which includes an entree, a side item and a drink.
For those partially dressed in cow attire (wearing a cow-spotted accessory, like a purse, scarf or hat), Chick-fil-A will reward you with a free entree.

For costume ideas, downloadable cow spots, masks and other themed accessories, visit the restaurants Cow Appreciation Day site.

To find a Chick-fil-A restaurant near you, click here.

Discounts for students and teachers can be easily forgotten, especially during the summer months.

If you’re looking for a good deal, check out these businesses that offer bargains to those with education IDs.

Retail

Amazon.com: By joining Amazon Student, students can receive six months of free two-day shipping, plus other special offers via email. You can also get free release-date delivery on video games, DVDs, books and more.

Ann Taylor: Students can receive 20 percent off full-price, in-store purchases by showing a valid student ID.

Ann Taylor Loft: Teachers can register online at Loft.com for multiple benefits. Show a valid teacher ID in stores to receive 15 percent off full-price purchases, plus get exclusive sweepstakes for teachers, access to grant money, seasonal style guides and teacher appreciation nights for you and your colleagues.

Banana Republic: Teachers and students with a valid school ID will receive 15 percent off full-price, in-store purchases.

Charlotte Russe: Students with a valid school ID can receive 10 percent off in the store at checkout.

Eddie Bauer: Teachers receive 10 percent off in-store purchases by showing a valid ID.

J. Crew: College students and teachers can receive 15 percent off full-price, in-store purchases with a valid ID. Some exclusions apply.

New York & Company: Show a school ID, pay stub or business card when checking out and teachers will receive 15 percent off in-store purchases. After signing up, teachers will also receive an additional 20 percent off coupon, and other special offers will be sent via email.

Sally Beauty: Beauty students can present their school ID to become a Beauty School Savings member. Members receive in-store discounts, monthly specials and scholarship assistance.

The Limited: Students and teachers with valid school ID can receive 15 percent off full-price, in-store purchases.

Insurance

Allstate: Full-time students can save up to 20 percent for good grades. Also, parents with a child in school at least 100 miles away can get up to 30 percent off their premium.

Farmers Insurance: Full-time students ages 16 to 25 who are ranked in the top 20 percent of their class, have a GPA of a “B”/3.0 or higher, or are included on the Dean’s List or Honor Roll can earn the Farmers Good Student Discount for auto insurance. Savings vary.

Geico: Full-time students ages 16 to 25 can receive up to 15 percent off coverage for maintaining a “B” average.

State Farm: Full-time students ages 16 to 25 who are ranked in the top 20 percent of their class, have a GPA of a “B”/3.0 or higher, or are included on the Dean’s List or Honor Roll can earn the Good Student Discount for auto insurance. Savings vary.

Books, crafts & office

A.C. Moore: Teachers can present an A.C. Moore Rewards Card (free at www.acmoorerewards.com) along with a teacher union card, state-issued teaching certificate, home school affidavit or IHIP approval letter from a school district or a state home schooling certificate or state-issued preschool/daycare facility certificate/license for 10 percent off in-store purchases.

Apple Online Store for Education: Locate an authorized Apple Campus Store or shop online and receive special student and educator discounts. Mac computers, Apple software and select accessories can all be bought at special prices. Visit http://store.apple.com/us/browse/campaigns/education_pricing for more information.

Barnes & Noble: Teachers and home educators can receive 20 percent off purchases for classroom use, plus 25 percent off during Educator Appreciation Days. Educators will also receive email offers throughout the year and information on special events. Teachers must register for this program in stores, but the discount can be used online and in stores.

Books-A-Million: Participating locations (including the Roanoke store) offer teachers with valid ID a discount of 20 percent off in-store purchases.

The Container Store: Teachers can sign up at www.containerstore.com/teachers/index.htm to earn special discounts in store, online or by phone through December 2012.

FedEx Office: Sign up at https://psg.kinkos.com/educator/ and school teachers, faculty and staff can receive 15 percent off most products and services by presenting their discount card. This discount can be used in the store or online, and there’s no limit to the savings that can be accrued each year. Educators will also receive special offers via email once they become members.

Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores: Teachers and home educators can receive 15 percent off every purchase, plus get a bonus coupon for 20 percent off any one total purchase when they enroll or re-enroll in the program. Purchases of remnants, patterns and gift cards are excluded. Apply online at www.joann.com/teacherrewards or in stores to receive a discount card.

Michaels: Teachers can receive 15 percent off each in-store purchase by showing their school ID. Some exclusions apply.

Office Max: The MaxPerks Rewards for teachers includes a $10 reward every time $75 is spent on qualified purchases (up to $100 in rewards per year). Sign up in stores, by calling 866-MAX-PERKS or by going online at https://www.officemaxperks.com/LearnMoreTeachers.aspx.

Travel, communications

Amtrak: Students going on college visits can get 50 percent off a companion ticket after purchasing one full-price ticket by using the Campus Visit Discount. Some blackout dates apply and students must travel with a parent or guardian. Visit www.campusvisit.com/amtrak/ to sign up.

AT&T: Employees of K-12 school districts can receive up to 17 percent off select wireless services, discounts on select phones, $25 off online orders, free shipping and more. Go to www.att.com and search “teacher appreciation” for more details.

The New York Times: Students who choose to have the paper delivered will receive a discount from the newsstand price. Discounts vary based on the plan chosen. 

Various other movie theaters, restaurants and other businesses also offer student and teacher discounts based on their location. Many software and computer companies (like Dell and Microsoft) also offer different deals for individual schools. While shopping around, it never hurts to ask if a discount is available.

Know of any other great discounts? Share them!

Tomorrow, July 11, participating 7-Eleven stores will be giving away free 7.11 oz. Slurpees from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

I know, that’s a lot of 7s and 11s to keep track of. If you’re scared you’ll forget the details, text 7EDAY to 711711 and you’ll get a text reminder tomorrow.

Take a break from the heat and enjoy your Slurpee.

For more information, click here.

Take a trip to Splash Valley to beat the heat. Photo by Eric Brady, The Roanoke Times.

If you’re looking for an escape from the heat wave, taking a trip to Splash Valley with the kids might be just what you need.

This week only (July 9 -13) Roanoke County residents can buy one adult pass and get one child pass free ($6 value).

Proof of County residence is required and the discount will be taken at the gate — no coupon required.

For more information, visit SplashValleyWaterPark.com or call 777-6300.

Macy’s has a new Be Book Smart promotion going on now that will not only help you, but a child in need.

Now  through July 31, when you give $3 to provide a book for a child, Macy’s will give you a coupon good for $10 off a $50 purchase in return.

The coupon does exclude: Everday Values, specials, super buys, furniture, mattresses, floor coverings, cosmetics, fragrances, select brands and more. These exclusions are pretty much the norm for any retail coupons, though.

For more information, visit Macy’s.com.

Have you recovered from all your holiday fun? I hope so, because the big post-July 4 sales are in full swing.

Here are some of the best deals from today’s paper:

Redplum and Smartsource both have coupon booklets available today, and they feature manufacturer coupons and restaurant coupons.

CVS continues its Free Sale this week, with tons of products buy one, get one free. Some participating products include Kleenex, Bumble Bee tuna, Purex, CVS batteries, CVS cameras, Nature’s Bounty vitamins and more.
You’ll also get a free cleansing brush ($20 value) when you buy an AcneFree kit.

Walgreens has another coupon available this week offering a free $25 gift card when you transfer prescriptions to their pharmacy.
There are also some interesting BOGO deals here: backpacks and tote bags are buy one, get one free; Walgreens batteries are buy one, get one free; Scotch tape is buy one, get one free; Dial and Irish Spring soap is buy one, get one free; and more.

Sears has a coupon good for an extra 15% off clothing, footwear, intimates, accessories, fragrances, cosmetics and fine jewelry valid through July 14. Use it on summer merchandise that’s already up to 50% off for the best deal.

The Dick’s Sporting Goods Annual Clearance Sale is happening now. The store is taking an extra 50% off the lowest ticketed price of clearance athletic, outdoor and golf apparel, and an extra 25% off the lowest ticketed price of clearance footwear and select golf, camping and fishing equipment.

Whether your kids are ready or not, we’re starting to see back to school ads. Office Max and Staples are gearing up this week.
Office Max has a coupon good for $5 off your next supply purchase of $25.
Plus, there are many deals for $1 or less, like: 1″ binders ($1), composition books (50 cents), glue sticks (25 cents), wireless notebooks ($1), index cards ($1), and more.

Staples has multiple deals for under $1, as well. Some products included in the sale: glue (1 cent), BIC pens (1 cent), RoseArt crayons (1 cent), Paper Mate pencils (25 cents), memo books (50 cents), BIC dry-erase markers (50 cents), pink block erasers (50 cents), glue sticks ($1), Sharpie markers ($1), scissors ($1) and more.
There’s also a coupon good for $5 off your purchase of $30 or more.

Michaels has big savings on clearance items. Right now all clearance merchandise storewide is up to 70% off.
There’s also a big Dollar Days sale going on, offering deals for under $1, under $3 and so on. You can really stock up on your paints, beads, scrapbooking materials and more.
Don’t forget the coupon: 40% off any regular priced item.

Kmart is offering 5% off layaway purchases now through August 4.
Additionally, Shop Your Way Rewards Members can get free Ragu pasta sauce and Barilla pasta when they buy Oscar Mayer grilled chicken breast strips.
Remember, the retailer will double five coupons up to $1 when you spend $25 or more on grocery, beauty or health merchandise.

Target has some great deals for $1 or less this week, including: Market Pantry pasta and sauce, Oscar Mayer Lunchables, Wet Ones, 2-pocket portfolios, 1-subject notebooks, Crayola markers and crayons, Sharpie markers, 10-packs of hangers, 4×6 prints, kids’ C9 socks, flip flops, boxer briefs and more.

Finks has a special promotion for Pandora jewelry fans. For the month of July, you’ll receive a free color cord when you buy three murano glass charms.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.

July 4 might be over, but the fun isn’t. This is the time of year you can find great deals on end-of-season summer apparel and beach/pool merchandise, as well as some early back to school deals (yep, it’s getting to be that time).

Here are some hints about what you might find in Sunday’s paper.

Redplum and Smartsource will both have coupon booklets up for grabs.

CVS continues its Free Sale next week, so look out for new participating products. There’s also a nice freebie with the purchase of an AcneFree kit.

Walgreens has another opportunity to earn a free, high-dollar gift card this week. There are also tons of BOGO deals headed your way.

Sears has a coupon that will get you an additional percentage off sale items next week.

The Dick’s Sporting Goods Annual Clearance Sale starts Sunday — and that adds up to big savings throughout the store.

Whether your kids are ready or not, we’re starting to see back to school ads. Office Max and Staples are gearing up next week.

Michaels has big savings on clearance items next week, plus a coupon.

Kmart starts a special promotion on layaway purchases Sunday, plus there’s a new freebie for Shop Your Way Rewards Members.

Target has some great deals for $1 or less next week, so prepare to stock up.

Finks will  begin a special promotion for Pandora jewelry fans.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.

About 10 years ago, my dad came home from a yard sale with a rusty metal bed frame he bought for $3. And if you had asked me then, I would’ve said he paid $3 too much. But with some black spray paint and other basic handyman tools, he spruced up that cheap bed frame and it became one of my favorite pieces of furniture. Fast forward to today and you’ll find that same refurbished bed in my home.

Hidden treasures such as that bed can be found all over, but shopping yard sales can be a little tricky. It can take a lot of time to find what you’re looking for, especially when the newspaper is filled with dozens of sales each week.

Here are some tips on how you can become a savvy yard sale shopper:

* Bring plenty of change and small bills. You don’t want to haggle a price down to 50 cents and then hand over a $20 bill. Sellers may not have enough change for large bills.

* Bring your own shopping bags or boxes. This will help you keep your finds organized. Grouping items together is also a good way to find a deal, as many sellers love to get rid of items in bulk. Often a seller will accept one price for a whole box of goods.

* Always carry a tape measure. If you’re shopping for curtains, furniture, rugs or other merchandise, it’s wise to know exactly how much space you have to fill. Before loading up on these big purchases, you should make sure the items will fit in your space. Remember: You can’t return yard sale purchases.

* If you’re shopping for furniture, TVs, gym equipment or other large items, it’s also a good idea to carry rope to secure the merchandise in your vehicle. This will keep you from having to return later to pick up your finds. If you do have to leave and come back, write a receipt for your purchase and have the seller sign it. Then, take a piece of the product with you (like a cushion from a couch) to deter other buyers from offering the seller a higher price.

* Arrive early, but check back late. Early shoppers often find the best yard sale merchandise, but late shoppers often get the best deals. If you’re looking for something particular, especially if it’s a popular item, arrive at the beginning of the sale so you can lay claim to your deals. If you’re lukewarm on a product, check back close to the end of the sale and the seller may give you a bargain to avoid packing up the merchandise.

* When shopping for clothes, don’t know just the sizes you’re looking for, know the measurements as well. Clothes can get stretched out or shrink after multiple washes, so it’s best to measure arms and legs to see if they’ll fit. For shoes, trace your or your child’s foot on poster board and carry the cutout with you.

* When browsing yard sale ads, look for cues that are important to you, such as descriptions that merchandise is from a nonsmoking or pet-free home. This can be especially important for allergy sufferers.

* Check over toys and inside boxes — sometimes there are unwanted surprises. Even if the box of a product looks practically new, the product may not be in the same condition. Bugs are also something to look out for, especially in items with lots of nooks and crannies. Toys, especially older products, may not function correctly or may have missing pieces. It’s also a good idea to bring a few batteries to test toys and other battery-operated items. You also can ask the seller if you may plug in electronic items to see if they work.

* Ask the seller for their desired price, then provide a counteroffer — not the other way around. Naming your price first may lead to your paying more than the seller ever imagined to get. If the named price seems fair to you, don’t haggle too much.

* Read up on recalls, especially with baby items. The best resource for this information is the Consumer Product Safety Commission, which can be reached at 800-638-2772 or www.cpsc.gov. Cribs, car seats and toys are often recalled for important reasons. If this is the case, a child’s safety is not worth the money you could save.

* Start a conversation with the seller. If you are friendly, you might get a better deal.

* Don’t go overboard. It’s easy to have good intentions of fixing something up or upcycling it. But if those intentions are never put into action, you’ve wasted money. Consider the amount of work that will go into a project and how much the tools you need will cost before forking over the cash.

* Bring bubble wrap, newspapers or tissue paper for wrapping breakables. Sellers may not have these items on hand and you don’t want your purchase to break before you get it home.

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Here are some special reader-submitted finds:

An Eric Fitzpatrick painting was a steal at $25. In an email, Carol Mesimer of Franklin County explained that while she and two friends were together swapping yard sale items, one pulled out the acrylic painting. She jumped at the opportunity to make it hers when the seller asked if $25 was too much. “Now I have an Eric Fitzpatrick painting in my bedroom. Had to be my best yard sale find, EVER!” she wrote.

After unpacking her donations for the Roanoke Valley Parrot Head Club’s annual yard sale to raise money for Relay for Life, Julie Mowles of Salem said a fellow Parrot Head member found a letter dated 1949 and addressed to Helen Anderson, Afton Mountain, in a briefcase she had donated.
Mowles wrote, “I recognized my dad’s handwriting. Folded neatly inside the envelope for 60 years was a very romantic love letter from my dad, Frank Williams, to my mother during a separation in their courtship. My sisters and I never knew my dad to show a lot of affection. This letter showed us a side of him we never knew. We don’t [know] why the letter was in his briefcase, or how we overlooked it. It is a family treasure now.” Frank Williams passed away 11 years ago today.

Phyllis Van Eps of Roanoke found two rolls of screen for only $10 each. “I just screened in my back porch and have plenty left to do the front porch!” she wrote.

Maruma and Jim Warren of Roanoke shopped in what they refer to as the “heyday of yard sales” in the 1980s and ’90s. Retired now, the couple love to reminisce about all of their finds, many of which furnish their current home. One table has always been a favorite. Maruma Warren wrote, “This poor thing was painted white, beat up on the top, but the lines were good, it was nice and heavy, so for $10 we took it home, refinished it back to the beautiful walnut [including all the nooks and crannies in the legs]. We use it by our sofa to this day. One of our daughters-in-law has put her name underneath so everyone knows it belongs to her someday.”

This doll was rescued by Nancy Kamwell of Fincastle after hearing it — the doll makes a distinctive laughing noise — at two different yard sales. Kamwell wrote, “We heard raucous laughter and finally located the sound. It came from a doll priced at $.50. Too funny. We said how effective it would be to respond to telemarketers. We didn’t buy it. We talked about it as we drove away and were remorseful to have missed out. The folks collecting the money said everything not sold would be donated to the Kiwanis for their yard sale.
A week later we went to a yard sale at the VFW Building held by Kiwanis. Lo and behold, we heard our doll again. After a search, we found it on the $1 table.”

To plan your weekend yard sale route, check out www.roanoke.com/yardsales. Then, share your yard sale tips below.

The Science Museum of Western Virginia, currently housed on the upper level of Tanglewood Mall across from Belk, is offering free admission to active members of the military and their immediate families (including a spouse and children living at home) on July 4.

The museum has interactive, hands-on exhibits for all ages, including weather exhibits, geology exhibits, light, color and sound exhibits and the “Bridge of Fire.”

The museum’s hours on Wednesday will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, visit the museum’s Facebook page or call 342-5710.

Note: A current military ID must be presented for free entry.

These leaves made of root vegetables are a treat for the eyes and the tastebuds. Photo by Country Crock.

Country Crock has a fun freebie available now.

Click here to print or download  the free cookbook “A Very Veggie World.”

The cookbook features 25 recipes that are as pretty as they are delicious, including a pizza flag, “leaves” made from root veggies, bear paws, and Mt. Veggie volcanoes.

July is already here, can you believe it? I hope you have a great Independence Day holiday this Wednesday.

Here are a few deals in today’s paper that ensure your month gets started off on a positive note.

P&G Brandsaver has over $74 worth of coupons available today.

Rack Room Shoes is continuing their semi-annual clearance sale today, with up to 50% off select items. There’s also a new coupon good for $10 off a purchase of $60 or more. Combine these savings opportunities with the everyday buy one, get one 50% off deal to save the most.

Walgreens has a great coupon this week offering a $25 gift card when you switch your prescriptions to their pharmacy. I’ve taken advantage of an offer similar to this in the past — there’s nothing quite like getting $25 for doing a simple task!
There’s also over $22 in Register Rewards available this week.
AARP members will receive a coupon good for $3 off their next in-store purchase when $10 or more is spent on Walgreens brand products.

Target has loads of free-with-purchase items available this week. Some of the freebies up for grabs include:
*$5 gift card, when you buy three select Capri Sun products
*512-count Pampers baby wipes, when you buy two select Pampers giant-pack diapers
*$5 gift card, when you buy three select Swiffer items
*Mio liquid water enhancer, when you buy two packs of Poland Spring or Deer Park water
*Beneful Baked Delights, when you buy select Beneful food
*$5 gift card, when you buy two select Nice ‘n Easy hair color, Gillet Venus ProSkin razors or Olay Total Effects moisturizer
*$5 gift card, when you buy three select Kotex products
*$5 gift card, when you buy two select Charmin, Bounty or Tide products
*$10 gift card, when you buy a Samsung 3D Blu-ray player
*$30 gift card, when you buy a Virgin Mobile LG Optimus Elite
*$10 gift card, when you buy an iPod Touch
*$5 gift card, when you buy five select Edy’s, Haagen-Dazs or Nestle frozen treats

Home Depot has interior and exterior paints, stains, finishes and more buy four, get the fourth free. This deal can be redeemed from now through July 4 via online or mail-in rebate.

The kids may not be as happy to see the Toys R Us ad this week — they’re rolling out back to school merchandise. Parents will be happy to see this deal, though: You can get a free lunch kit ($9.99 value) when you buy any backpack priced $12.99 or more. Additionally, you’ll get an extra 20% off any backpack priced $12.99 or more when you trade in your old backpack.
There are also some great BOGO deals on Crayola, stationary and Thermos drink containers.
You may still be able to treat the kids, too, because all storewide clearance is up to 60% off.
There are three baby coupons available this week:
*$4 off any two powder formulas 22.2 oz. or larger
*$5, $15 or $25 off any three Pampers or Huggies value boxes of diapers
* 20% off any regular priced baby item

Sears is offering Come Back Cash in association with their July 4th Sale this week. Spend $50 or more in clothing, intimates, accessories, fragrance, cosmetics and home fashions and you’ll get $10 in Come Back Cash. Spend $100 or more in fine jewelry, luggage and household goods and you’ll get $20 in Come Back Cash.
Come Back Cash can be used between July 8 and July 15.
Additionally, clearance clothing, sleepwear, intimates and accessories are an extra 30% off this week.

Kmart has a grilling special for Shop Your Way Rewards Members this week: Free buns and cheese when you buy one pound of ground chuck.
Additionally, clearance apparel is an extra 40% off, and swimwear and beach towels are up to 60% off.
This is also the last week to spend $250 or more on grocery and drug store merchandise to qualify for a free family picnic.
If you spend $30 or more on Procter & Gamble products this week, you’ll also be rewarded with a coupon for $10 off your next visit. Combine this promotion with today’s P&G coupons and get the most for your money.

CVS continues its free gas card promotion this week, so look for new items to spend $30 or more on to receive your free $10 gas card.
When you spend $30 on Olay products from now through August 31, you’ll get $10 back via mail-in rebate. Look for the rebate offer in cvs.com.
One great, high-value ExtraBucks reward this week is for Hawaiian Tropic sunscreen products. You’ll get $10 in Extrabucks when you buy two Hawaiian Tropic items — and you can use coupons on this deal! (Unfortunately clearance items don’t qualify.)

Kroger has a new mix and match offer this week. Mix and match any 10 participating products and you’ll save $3 immediately, plus get a coupon good for $2 off later. Some participating products include Coca-Cola, Gatorade, Lay’s, Kraft barbecue sauce, Breyers, Dial and more.
There are also some new 10/$10 products this week, including Kroger fruit, Kroger tortilla chips, Utz snacks, Kroger pasta, Kroger and Edy’s ice cream, Kroger paper towels and Miller Lite or Coors Light 16 oz. pints.

Remember, all of these ads may not appear in your paper. However, many retailers post their ads online, so always check there if you’re interested in finding out more details. You can also get printable coupons at these websites: SmartSource , Redplum , Coupon Network and Coupons.com.