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Denver kids: be sure to sign up for free access to pools, rec centers

In the first year of the MY Denver Card program, the city says more than 42,000 youths signed up for the free pass to municipal libraries, pools and recreation centers. That’s nearly half of the estimated 90,000 5- through 18-year-olds who are eligible. Denver Parks and Recreation said on Thursday, the one-year anniversary of the program, that its first-year goal had been to sign up 25,000. Parents can fill out applications at any Denver rec center or print one online on Denvergov.org. The city says it will announce more card benefits later this year. Costs for the $1.2 million-a-year program have been covered by voters’ passage in 2012 of Measure 2A, which allowed the city to keep more tax money by opting out of the spending cap set by the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights. R...

Denver Deal: LobsterFest, Free Whole Foods Cooking “Guiltless Chocolate Treats” and IHOP

Despite the fact that I have always lived in land-locked Colorado I have always been a fan of great seafood. To great fanfare, Red Lobster introduced the 31st annual event – Lobsterfest. I was invited to try several new (and some returning) amazing lobster loaded dishes as part of a tasting of this year’s menu. The meal was served family-style with myself, my sister and five others who were invited to try the new stuff (one couple was invited because they dine there often; the other three ladies responded to a Yelp review). It was great because we got to try so many things! Appetizers: Sweet Chili Shrimp, Lobster-crab and seafood stuffed mushrooms and Lobster Pizza (which I believe my kids would have loved); Entrees: Dueling Lobster Tails, Lobster Lover’s Dream, Lobster i...

5 Free Holiday Gift Ideas

The holidays can be expensive, between the gifts, parties and travel expenses. My favorite gifts are those that don’t cost a lot of money, yet are personal and meaningful and maybe even a little playful. So, the ideas below will save money, and they also encourage thoughtful gifting for loved ones. Whether for adults or kids, add a personal twist on an idea or two below and have fun making gifts this year. You can definitely enjoy a Happy Holiday that doesn’t have to demolish your bank account! 1. Coupon Book: There is a reason department stores and food chains use coupons – people like them. By making your own unique coupons, this gift will be a hit for any age. Think of what the recipient would appreciate and design a page for each coupon. Ideas for kids can include a gam...

Denver Deal: Denver Zoo, Jamba Juice & Ski Deals

Santa has arrived at several malls (last weekend) and I’m starting to get information on Black Friday deals. If you have any great insider scoop, please share it with me. Apparently, there won’t be much in the way of Black Friday this  year – as several stores are planning their openings on Thanksgiving Day and of course, there is always online shopping. Deals are not so secret anymore – as Target has already published a spoiler and I’m just waiting to see what other big Black Friday retailers are going to offer. Look for trends this year like bundling and gift card with purchase (especially at stores like Target). FREE Days The Denver Zoo will host FREE Days for Colorado residents on Friday, November 15 and Thursday, November 21. Symphony Discount Mile High M...