Your Savings Guide to the State Fair of Texas ~ It’s Time for Fletcher’s Corny Dogs & Cheap Tickets!

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The end of September is almost here and that means it is time for the annual State Fair (and the “culinary” smells of every artery-clogging food known to mankind wafting through the air)!    

The Texas State Fair Opens Next Week!
(Runs September 24-October 17, 2010)

This year’s line up of events is as extensive as ever. Free Concerts (with fair admission) include: Mat Kearney, Mario, Matt Morris, American Idol star Brooke White, and even the Pointer Sisters! There is so much to see and do. Check out the mainstage line up of concerts here and the daily schedule of events here.   

The Grease-O-Meter is Off the Charts this Year!
This year’s fried food extravaganza includes everything from Fried Frito Pie to the must-have-if-you-go-to-the-fair, famous Fletcher’s Corny Dog (and seemingly every fried “delicacy” in between including last year’s fried butter!).   

Lots of Ways to Save
General admission tickets are normally $15/person. Plan ahead, and you can attend certain days for FREE. If your schedule isn’t as flexible, purchase tickets at deep discounts with one of the many ways to save on admission below:   

1. Kroger Grocery Store Advance Ticket Savings.  Kroger is the official site for advanced ticket purchases. Call or stop by Kroger’s service desk to purchase these discount tickets, during service desk hours:    

  • DART/State Fair Combo Ticket: $16. This ticket gets you admission into the Fair AND a convenient round-trip ride via DART’s Greenline. You’ll be delivered to the front gate of Fair Park ( plus you save on $10 fair parking and gas!). Note, that this is not valid for service on TRE or Fort Worth T which would need to be purchased separately (TRE State Fair details here).
  • Advance General Admission: $14 ($15 at the gates). Valid for any one-day admission.
  • Advance Season Pass: $29.95 (not sold at State Fair admission gates). This is a great deal if you are going to make at least 2 visits during the fair. This season pass includes: Unlimited visits for 2010, 1 free companion ticket (good Monday-Friday), AND 1 free Cinemark Movie Theater ticket. Learn more here.

2. Opening Day $4 Admission with a Food Donation to the North Texas Food Bank (Friday, September 24) – Bring an unopened 20 oz. (or more) Coca-Cola product to the admission gates and enter the State Fair for $4 per person.    

     

3. Tuesdays, Dr Pepper Day: $3 Admission – On Tuesdays, bring an empty Dr Pepper can to the admission gate and enter for $3.   

    

4. After 5pm any day, Dr Pepper Day: $5 AdmissionAfter 5pm, admission is $5 when you bring an empty Dr Pepper can to any State Fair admission gate.   

    

5. Wednesdays, Kroger Day: 3 Cans for $2 Admission – When you bring 3 cans of food (per person) for donation to the North Texas Food Bank, get admission for $2.    

    

 6. Thursdays, Coke Day: $4 Admission Bring an empty 20 oz. bottle of a Coca-Cola product and enter the Fair for $4 admission.    

    

 7. Thursdays, Seniors Day: FREE Admission FREE Thursdays for Senior Citizens 60 years and older.    

    

 8. Thursdays, Cinemark: FREE Admission Get FREE admission on Thursday by showing a Cinemark Theater ticket stub at the admissions gate.   

    

9. Thursday, September 30th, Dickies Day: FREE Admission Wear your Dickies logo clothing item to the staffed tent outside the gate and receive a FREE admission voucher for Thursday, September 30th only.   

    

 10. Fridays, Fort Worth Star Telegram Press Pass Savings: Buy One Get One FREE – Check the FW Star-Telegram on Fridays and Sundays for a special State Fair coupon. Present the coupon and your Press Pass when purchasing a general admission ticket at any State Fair of Texas ticket booth at the regular price of $15.00 and receive a second ticket FREE.   

    

11. Any Day, McDonald’s: $4 OFF General Admission/FREE Child’s Admission Stop by McDonald’s to get a $4 OFF Regular Admission coupon, good for any day of the State Fair.  The coupon also provides a FREE child’s ticket (with purchase of general admission). Offer may not be combined with any other offer.   

    

Details, details
What: Find out more about the Texas State Fair, here.
Where: Fair Park, 3921 Martin Luther King Blvd ~ Dallas, TX
When: September 24-October 17, 2010
   

   

   

Enjoy and Share! :)   

    


   

   

Buy One Get One FREE Jamba Juice Smoothies!   

GREAT Sale at Amazon ~ Up to 75% OFF
Clothes, Shoes & Accessories!
   

Mortgage Rates Hit A Record Low ~ 
Is Refinancing Your Home a Wise Option?
   

    


   


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IT’S BACK ~ FREE Taco Tuesday at Freebirds World Burrito! TODAY ONLY ~ September 14!

 

Get a FREE Taco at Freebirds!
One of our favorite spots, Freebirds World Burrito, has a great freebie
special! Today is their FREE TACO TUESDAY when you show
your registered Freebirds Fanatic Card to the cashier. 

Details, details
When:  Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Where: Any Freebirds World Burrito ~ 

The Small Print (only made larger):
Show your Fanatic Card to
redeem. Card must be registered prior to purchase. Cannot be combined
with any other promotion/discount.  Limit one per customer.
Valid September 14, only while supplies last.

 Enjoy and Share! :)



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FREEBIE ALERT: Buy One Get One FREE Jamba Juice Smoothies!


A Bit of Smoothie Savings Bliss…

What: Jamba Juice is offering BUY ONE GET ONE FREE
Smoothies now through September 22, 2010.

How: Print the Coupon (click here) and present it with
your smoothie purchase at Jamba Juice.

Where: Find a Jamba Juice Location (click here).

  

  Enjoy and Share! :)



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Frugal & Fun Fort Worth Weekend Events (September 10-12 Edition) ~ Gallery Night Events & More!

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ABOUT THE FRUGAL & FUN FT. WORTH WEEKEND EDITION ~
Fridays, we post ideas for FREE (or really cheap) weekend entertainment
for you and your family.
 
Subscribe to our blog updates, here (FREE!).

This weekend’s highlights include:  

  • Fort Worth’s 2010 Gallery Night ~ A visual arts “open house” with almost 50 participating locations (galleries, museums, etc.) this year!
  • Art in the Garden ~ Art + The FW Botanic Garden = Beautiful!
  • Jazz by the Boulevard ~ Live jazz and juried art show.
  • Preservation is the Art of the City ~ A fun Gallery Night event supporting historic preservation in Fort Worth.
  • Diez y Seis Celebration! Live Conjunto music, folkórico dancing, food and more.

:: Fort Worth’s 2010 Fall Gallery Night
Saturday, September 11, 2010 

 

Ft. Worth’s Annual Gallery Night is an “Open House” FREE event, across almost 50 venues, all celebrating the visual arts and the community’s cultural richness in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Participating art venues include all types, from the legendary Fort Worth galleries of the west side to the chic showrooms of the trendy, up and coming south side. 

Take a stroll through participating galleries, museums, retail businesses, and area restaurants, plus mingle with the many artists featured during
this community event. Many locations are hosting live music and light h’ors d’oeuvres. 

 Details, details
What
: Download the 2010 Gallery Night program and map here to get more info on all 49 participating locations. Hosted by the Fort Worth Art
Dealer’s Association (fwada.org).
When: Saturday, September 11, 2010  ~ Events take place all day and evening, and times vary by venue.
Go here to find the schedule for each location.
Where:
Go here to print out a map of each participating  venue (page 8).
Cost:
Most events are FREE.  

:: 

:: Art in the Garden, Fort Worth Botanic Garden Art Show and Sale
Friday-Sunday, September 10-12 

 

Enjoy the beauty of the FW Botanic Gardens while taking in works from regional artists at Art in the Garden. The exhibit and sale will feature more
than 45 juried selections, including paintings, photographs, jewelry and sculpture. Art will be displayed in the Deborah Beggs Moncrief Garden
Center close to the main entrance to the Fort Worth Botanic Gardens. 

Details, details
What: Find more info about Art in the Garden, here. Learn more about the Fort Worth Botanic Gardens and other events, here.
When: September 10-12, 2010 

  • Friday, September 10, 2010 : 12:00PM – 7:00PM
  • Saturday, September 11, 2010 : 8:00AM – 8:00PM
  • Sunday, September 12, 2010 : 1:00PM – 7:00PM

Where: Floral Clock entrance on University Drive, just north of I-30. For directions to the gardens and other details, click here.
Cost:
FREE!
 

:: 

:: 2010 Fort Worth Jazz By The Boulevard
Friday & Saturday, September 10-11, 2010 

With two stages of continuous jazz music serving up national headliners such as legendary jazz bassist Stanley Clarke, Trombone Shorty (featured in the
acclaimed HBO series Tremé), Mississippi blues-rocker Charlie Mars and much, much more, this year’s lineup is sure to please even the most
discriminating jazz fan. The weekend event also features a juried art show plus a cooking pavilion with chef-taught demonstrations  (presented by
the Culinary School of Fort Worth). 

Details, details
What: Learn more & view the performance schedule at fortworthjazz.com.
When: September 10 – 11, 2010
 

  • Friday, September 10, 2010 ~ 5:00pm — 11:00pm
  • Saturday, September 11, 2010 ~ 1:00pm — 11:00pm

Where: Nestled on the tree-lined lawn of the Will Rogers Memorial Center at 3401 West Lancaster.  Get directions & a map here.
Cost:
$5 per person, per day for general festival admission & lawn seating.
FREE for children 12 & under!
 

:: 

:: Preservation is the Art of the City
September 10-25, 2010

 

“Preservation is the Art of the City” is a FREE Public Art Show and Sale featuring jury-selected artists. This non-profit gallery promotes and supports local studio artists as well as historic preservation in Fort Worth. 

Details, details
What: For the more info, go to historicfortworth.org
When
: Ongoing Show and Display Hours through September 10-25, 2010:

Monday-Saturday, 9:00am — 5:00pm
Where: Fort Worth Community Arts Center, 1300 Gendy
 

:: 

:: Diez y Seis Celebration!
Saturday, September 12, 2010
 

 

Honor Mexico’s Independence Day with live Conjunto/Norteño music, folkórico dancing, face painting & local artisans selling their work along with local Northside restaurants. Fun for the entire family!

 Details, details
What: For more details, go to rosemarinetheater.com
When: September 11, 2010,  7:00PM
Where: Rose Marine Theater 1440 N. Main St.
Cost: FREE
 


 

Enjoy and Share! :) 


 


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FRUGAL ALERT: Special Friends & Family 25% OFF Savings at Endless.com Shoes ~ TODAY ONLY!

Pass-along worthy event for Endless.com shoes (Today Only!)…

If you still have some back-to-school shoe or accessory
shopping for the family to finish, take a look at the 25% OFF
Friends & family event
at endless.com.

TODAY ONLY! Use promo code FRIEND25 to save 25% on your
$100 order of Men’s, Women’s or Kid’s Shoes and Accessories.

What I Really Like About Endless.com
Endless.com is one of our favorite spots to find great discounts
and selection
on name brand shoes (if you are not familiar with Endless,
think DSW multiplied x 1000, only online).  I love that it’s always tax-free
to anywhere in Texas and they carry hard to fit sizes, too!

They offer discounted prices on a huge variety of shoes, handbags,
sunglasses, watches, and more.  I can shop from the comfort of home,
get free overnight shipping on new styles and free two-day shipping
on everything else.  Plus, if your purchase isn’t quite what you wanted,
return shipping is free too
!

How: Go here to get the 25% OFF Friends & family event discount.
Use promo code FRIEND25 at checkout.

Enjoy and Share! :)



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Taking advantage of this offer helps support the Frugal in Fort Worth blog.

50% OFF at Ferre Restaurant in Downtown Ft. Worth

Thursdays in September, Ferre is offering 50% OFF On Dinner.
If you are looking for a nice midweek dinner on the town, take a look at Ferre Restaurant in downtown Fort Worth (across the street from Bass Hall). Every Thursday evening in September, ALL food items on their regular menu are half off all evening!

A sampling of the menu items includes homemade Linguini Pirate (fresh rock shrimp, crab meat & calamari in a spicy arrabbiata sauce), Brick Oven Pizza with goat cheese & grilled wild mushrooms, and Wild East Coast Scallops.

 Details, details
What:
All food items at Fort Worth’s Ferre Ristorante are 50% Off Thursday evenings this month. Find more details as well as other specials here.
When:
4:00PM to 10:00PM ~ Every Thursday evening during September
Where:
215 E. 4th Street. Downtown Fort Worth, adjacent to the Bass
Performance Hall. Get directions
here.

Enjoy and Share! :)



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HOT TACO CABANA COUPON! Get Up to $10 OFF Beef or Chicken Fajitas!

Pop by Taco Cabana now through, Wednesday, September 15th, and you can
get $5 OFF 1 pound of beef or chicken fajitas or $10 OFF 2 pounds
with the above coupon!  Add a dozen of their homemade tortillas and
you have a cheap and delicious meal to share with family and friends!

Details, details
How: Print the Taco Cabana $5 OFF Fajitas coupon here.
When: Now through September 15, 2010 ~ normal business hours.
Where: All participating Taco Cabana locations. Find one near you.

Enjoy and Share! :)



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TODAY ONLY ~ HOT GROUPON DEAL! $10 for a 20-Page Photo Book from Shutterfly ($30 Value)!

Pass along worthy offer…

1-Day Groupon Deal: EXPIRES TODAY, September 7th!

Great Deal at Fort Worth Groupon today!  For $10 (66% OFF the regular
price) you’ll get
an 8″ x 8″ Hardcover Book From Shutterfly ~
a $30 value!

Pass this along to your friends in other cities, too! This can be
purchased and used from anywhere in the U.S (find at the Fort Worth
Groupon site
).

Easily Create A Beautiful Picture Book
And Archive Your Pictures

I love the simplicity of using picture books to organize my photos and share
memories. I’m not a very good scrapbooker, so this is perfect for me & I
love the price!!!  What great timing for those post summer vacation and
beginning of  school photograph collections!

In case you are new to Groupon: note that you do need to buy the gift
certificate TODAY (the offer expires at midnight EST), however you can
use the certificate anytime at Shutterfly through Nov. 22, 2010.

The fine print (only made larger): Limit 1 Groupon per person. Valid
for 1 20-page 8×8 hardcover photo book only (excluding leather, padded,
and soft covers), additional pages $1/page. Tax, shipping & handling not
included. Must have/create a Shutterfly account. Not valid with other
offers. View complete terms.

  • Go here to sign up for today’s Shutterfly Groupon deal (be sure to select Fort Worth as your Groupon City).
  • Go here to learn more about the Shutterfly product line.

New to Groupon? You Are In For a Treat!

A few months ago, Groupon launched its Fort Worth site (AND we
did the happy dance at Frugal in Fort Worth!). If you are not familiar with
Groupon, definitely take a moment to check them out.

Groupon offers a daily deal on local goods, services and cultural events
across the country. Fort Worth is the 51st city launch for Groupon, and
in the last month, I’ve seen their offers include everything from
50% Off Gap Retail Stores to 60% Off Spa Services to 55% Off
carpet cleaning ~ and seemingly everything in between!

How Groupon works

1. Each day Groupon features a great deal at an unbeatable price.

2. You have to sign up for the offer that day and only get the deal
if the minimum number of people join that day (so pass this along
to your friends)!

3. Check back the next day to discover the next Groupon offer!

Taking advantage of this deal supports Frugal in Fort Worth.

Enjoy and Share! :)



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Frugal & Fun Fort Worth Weekend Events (September 3-6): Lots of FREE Fun in Store for Labor Day Weekend!

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ABOUT THE FRUGAL & FUN FT. WORTH WEEKEND EDITION ~
Fridays, we post ideas for FREE (or really cheap) weekend entertainment
for you and your family.
Subscribe to our blog updates, here (FREE!).  

This weekend’s highlights include:  

• FREE Concert in the Park ~ Near Southside  
• FREE Grapevine Lake Fireworks & Family Fun Event
• CHEAP ~ Blues & BBQ Festival ~ Bedford

• FREE Museum Admission and Family Activities
• FREE Cooking Technique Class at Williams Sonoma
• FREE Kids Woodworking Workshop at Home Depot
 

:: FREE Outdoor Concert Event ~ First Friday On The Green
Friday, September 3, 2010
 

 

Enjoy a fun evening with your family and friends with First Friday on
the Green, a FREE monthly live music series rolled out by Fort Worth
South
. Bring your blankets and chairs (and even Fido if you want), and
enjoy an evening of live music from great bands in a relaxing setting. 

Hungry? Enjoy one of the neighborhood’s fantastic restaurants beforehand
or take in Chadra Mezza & Grill which will be selling their tasty fare at the
event. No outside coolers or food please. 

Details, Details
What: Fort Worth South, Inc. (FWSI) is the non-profit org behind the
revitalization (and suburban greatness) of Fort Worth’s Near
Southside. Get more info here.
When: Friday, September 3, 2010 ~ 7:00PM
Where: Head to Magnolia Green Park ~ 1100 Block of Lipscomb,
between Magnolia and Rosedale (across the street from the Village
Homes row houses). Find a map here.
Cost: In lieu of admission (which is FREE), you are encouraged to make a
donation to September’s charity, The WARM Place.  Their donation wish list
includes kitchen and office supplies such as: paper towels, paper dinner
napkins, liquid hand soap, coffee, postage stamps, and copy paper.
 

  

:: 

:: FREE City of Grapevine Firework Fridays & Summer Blast
Family Event at the Gaylord Texan

….Friday, September 3, 2010


 

Friday nights in Grapevine will sparkle with a spectacular fireworks show this
Friday. If you want to add some extra fun to your family evening, plan to view
the fireworks from the Gaylord Texan Hotel.
 

Led by the majestic Queen of Hearts, the cast of characters from Alice’s
Adventures in Wonderland parade through the Gaylord hotel atrium to
the roof of the resort garage to experience the fireworks display and family
fun & games.
 

Details, details
What: This event is for all ages and will have a DJ, games for kids, and
food and beverages for purchase. For more information about the fireworks
show, click here. For more details about the Gaylord Texan family
event, go here.
When:
Friday, September 3, 2010
..
8:30-10:00PM Family friendly parade, games and events
..9:30PM Fireworks over Lake Grapevine
Where: Parade starts in the Lone Star Atrium at the Gaylord Texan
Resort. View the fireworks on level 5 of the Resort Garage.
Click here for directions to the Gaylord Texan Resort.
Fireworks can also be viewed from any Grapevine Lake park at 9:30PM.
Find a map of viewing sites around Grapevine Lake here.
Cost: FREE for both local and hotel guests to attend.  

:: 

:: Bedford Blues & BBQ Labor Day Festival
Saturday and Sunday, September 4-5, 2010
 

 

Music lovers with an appetite for rich “blues” and mouth-watering barbecue will
find the 2010 Bedford Blues & BBQ Festival a feast for the senses. This two-day
family friendly event returns Sept. 4-5 with an entertaining lineup that features
some of the biggest names in blues.  Schedule highlights include legends Robert
Cray
and Taj Mahal

Details, details
What: For more details or to view the music entertainment line-up, go here.  
Where: 1615 Hospital Parkway, Bedford.  Located on the grounds adjacent
to Harris Methodist Hospital (HEB) at Highways 121 and 183
When: Sept. 4-5, 2010 ~ Gates open at 2:00PM. Go here for the schedule.
Cost: $5 General Admission 

::    

:: Bank of America Cardholders: Take advantage of FREE
ADMISSION to the Fort Worth Museum of Science & History

Saturday and Sunday, September 4-5, 2010
 

https://frugalinfortworth.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/fort-worth-science-history-museum.jpg 

Bank of America’s 2010 national program, Museums On Us offers FREE
admission, the first full weekend of every month, to 120 participating
museums throughout the U.S.  

This FREE Admission program takes place this weekend (August 6th & 7th)
in Fort Worth at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.
 

Details, details
What: To find out more about Bank of America’s Museums On Us
program
, go here. To learn more about The Fort Worth Museum of
Science & History,
click here.
How:
Show a photo ID and any Bank of America Card to get FREE admission
for each Bank of America Card Holder.
Where: The Fort Worth Science & History Museum, 1600 Gendy St.
(corner of Montgomery and Burnett Tandy).
Click here for directions.
When: Saturday and Sunday, September 4-5, 2010 ~ 10:00AM to 5:00PM
Cost: FREE to Bank of America Cardholders (Reg: $14 Adults, $10 Children)
 

Other DFW Museums With FREE Admission This Weekend:  

  

:: 

:: Take an “Art-Full” Trek to Dallas to the Nasher Sculpture
Center’s First Saturdays Family Fun Day.

Saturday, September 4, 2010 

Nasher Sculpture Center, First Saturdays 

The Nasher Sculpture Center and Target present First Saturdays
for families. Held the first Saturday of every month, this special
event features FREE admission and a fun schedule of activities for
the kids.
 

Details, details
What:
For details, including complete schedule, click here.
When: Saturday, September 4, 2010 ~ 10:00AM to 2:00PM
Where:
 For directions to Nasher Sculpture Center, click here.
Cost: FREE
 

::  

:: Take a FREE Cooking Technique Class at Williams-Sonoma
Saturday and Sunday, September 4-5, 2010 

  

Try something new in the kitchen!
This week’s Williams Sonoma technique class will teach how to make traditional
Italian Risotto.  You’ll learn how to take  this popular dish and embellish it with
savory ingredients like vegetables, cheeses, meats and more. 

Note: You’ll want to call to reserve your spot since class size is limited.  

Details, details
What:
For more information, click here.
When: Saturday and Sunday, September 4-5, 2010 ~ 1 hour class times
vary from store to store, so be sure to call for exact times & date.

Where: Click here to find a Williams Sonoma store near you.
Cost: FREE! Be sure to call your local store to RSVP. 

:: 

:: FREE ~ Home Depot ~ Build. Learn. Create. Kids Workshop
Saturday, September 4, 2010
 

 

This Saturday, bring your child to Home Depot’s Kids Workshop to help
them learn a new woodworking skill and make a FREE Football display
to take home. 

Each Kids Workshop participant will receive a kid-sized orange apron
(similar to a Home Depot associate apron) and an achievement pin. All
workshops are free, but you should probably show up early to insure you
have a kit for your little ones. 

Details, details
What:
For ages 5-12. Get more information about the workshop, here.
When: Saturday, September 4 ~ 9:00AM to Noon
Where: Home Depot Home Improvement Stores
To find a participating location, click here.
Cost: FREE! 

:: 

  

I hope you and your family have a
wonderful Labor Day weekend!
 

 Enjoy and Share! :)

..
  
 


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FRUGAL ALERT: FREE Starbucks Artisan Breakfast Sandwich (Morning Bliss!)

Become a member of the Starbucks Rewards Program before September 21, 2010, and you will receive a coupon for a FREE Starbucks Artisan Breakfast Sandwich! When you join, you also can earn free drinks, drink upgrades, and other FREE offers (like a FREE drink of any size on your birthday!).

Details, details
How:
Register a Starbucks Gift Card (can be any amount or can be one you already have) with the My Starbucks Rewards program to get  the coupon for a FREE Artisan Breakfast Sandwich!

When: Offer is available now through September 21, 2010 and the coupon will be mailed to your registered address in 4-6 weeks.

Where: Offer good at any participating Starbucks location.  Find a
store close to you by following this link.

The Small Print (Only Made Larger): “Offer valid for new My Starbucks Rewards members only. Offer valid from 8/31–9/21. US participants only.
Oatmeal will be substituted at some locations. Coupon expires on 11/30/10.”

Starbucks Rewards Program, User Tip: If you have multiple Starbucks Gift cards (i.e., you carry one and your spouse uses another), register them all under one Starbucks Rewards account so that any purchases work towards higher rewards.

Click here to visit the Frugal in Fort Worth Blog home page.

Enjoy and Share! :)



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Mortgage Rates Hit A Record Low! Is Refinancing Your Home a Wise Option?

Mortgage Rates Fall to Record Lows.
Average mortgage interest rates just hit their lowest level since 1971 (read more in the news, here), and if you are a homeowner, this is a really good time to explore refinancing. And I do mean “explore.”

Just because rates have dropped doesn’t necessarily mean that it is wise for everyone to refinance immediately.  Refinancing involves applying for a new loan which will be used to pay off the old loan.  Remember that mile-high  stack of mortgage paper work?  You’ll have to go through that process all over again, (but the extra effort could really be worth it in savings).

Is Refinancing Your Home Right For You?
There are lots of good reasons to refinance your mortgage including a lower interest rate, a shortened mortgage term so you can  build equity and get out of debt faster, lower monthly payments, or switching from an adjustable rate to a fixed-rate mortgage.

Before you invest too much time in the refinance process, make sure you can say “yes” to the following 2 questions (the basic refinance rules of thumb):

  1. Is the new refinance interest rate at least 1 percent lower than your existing mortgage interest rate?
  2. Do I plan to own my home until I break even on the refinance costs?

If you answered “no” to either of these questions, it might not make sense for you to refinance at this time, as loan costs could exceed any potential interest savings.  Keep reading, if you said “yes” to both questions or if you don’t know the answer (we’ll help you figure that out below).

6 Easy Steps To Determine If A Refinance Will Save You Money
If you can say yes to the above questions, you still have a little loan shopping and comparison homework to do in order to decide whether a refinance is a wise option.

  1. Find out if your current mortgage has prepayment penalties. Although it is uncommon, some mortgages do charge a prepayment penalty. If this is true of your mortgage, determine how much you will be charged if you  pay off your mortgage  early.
    .
  2. Shop for the best refinance deal. We recommend that you only look at fixed interest loan rates (go here to learn more) from reputable loan providers. Also compare your total closing costs and refinance fees among potential lenders, costs like: points, survey fees, appraisal fees, attorney fees,  mortgage prepayment penalties and more (read the list of potential fees here). Ask each lender to give a complete list and total cost of fees in writing so that you can make a fair comparison.
    ..
  3. Learn what the new monthly mortgage payment will be. Each bank or mortgage company should give you, in writing, the new interest rate and monthly mortgage payment, based on at least two options:
    .

    1. Add the closing costs and refinance fees to the remaining balance of the home (this is called “rolling costs into the mortgage”), AND
    2. Pay the refinancing fees and closing costs out-of-pocket and in cash. If you can swing it, this is typically the better financial option, providing a higher amount of long-term savings.
      .
  4. Compare the offers and their potential savings. Use the refinance calculator (here) to compare the interest savings and refinance costs for each lender option and figure out which gives you the most favorable overall cost savings. If you’ll have a prepayment penalty on your current mortgage (Step #1, above), determine what the penalty would be if you refinance, and add that amount to your closing costs when you make your comparisons.
    .
  5. Calculate your break-even point. For each loan scenario, write down the number of months for interest savings to offset closing costs” (9th box down in the refinance calculator). This is also known as your break-even point.
    .
  6. Analyze your break-even point. Estimate the number of months you expect to own your home and compare it to the break-even points calculated in steps #4 & #5 of each loan scenario. If the expected number of months that you’ll own your home is greater than the break-even point number of months, then refinancing will likely offer you long-term cost savings.

An important side note on taking cash out: You might figure out that this is the right time for you to refinance.  Depending on the amount of equity you have already invested in your home, your loan provider might give you the option to get cash back and take out a bigger loan.  While this might be tempting, we strongly recommend that you avoid this option if possible.  It will likely cost you more money in the long run, could possibly wipe out any potential savings you make from the refinance, and might extend the amount of time until you can be debt and mortgage free. This option benefits the lender (who makes more money off the larger loan), not you.  Just say “no” to this option!!

Are you planning to refinance your home?  Do you have any words of wisdom you can share from your home refinance experience? We’d love to hear about it (please leave a note in the comments section)!


Enjoy and Share! :)


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Frugal & Fun Fort Worth Weekend Events (August 27-29) ~ FREE Ansel Adams Exhibit, FREE Fireworks & Family Event, FREE Kids Classes, and Lots More!

ABOUT THE FRUGAL & FUN FORT WORTH WEEKEND EDITION ~
Fridays, we post ideas for FREE (or really cheap) weekend entertainment
for you and your family. If you would like to subscribe to our blog updates,
click here (also FREE!). This weekend’s tips include:

• FREE Ansel Adams Exhibit at the Amon Carter Museum
FREE
Grapevine Lake Fireworks & Family Fun Event
FREE Kids Cow Camp at the Fort Worth Stockyards
• FREE Cooking Technique Class at Williams-Sonoma
• FREE Family Craft Event at Michael’s Stores
• FREE Woodworking Kids Clinic at Lowe’s

:: Visit the Amon Carter Museum’s Ansel Adams Exhibit
Now through November 7, 2010


The Amon Carter museum has composed a limited time exhibition of 40
works by renowned photographer/artist, Ansel Adams. This collection
captures the incredible brilliance and beauty of the American landscape
through the keen eye of one of the most famous photographers in history.

Details, details
What: To learn about the Ansel Adams Exhibit, go here.
When
:  Now through November 7, 2010. Regular museum hours.
Where:  Amon Carter Museum, 3501 Camp Bowie Boulevard.
Get directions and parking details by clicking here.
Cost: Entrance to this exhibit and the Amon Carter Museum is
always FREE (but donations are appreciated)!

::

:: FREE Grapevine Lake Fireworks Show & Summer Blast
Family Event at the Gaylord Texan

Friday, August 27, 2010


Friday nights over Grapevine Lake will sparkle with spectacular
firework shows each Friday, now through Labor day. If you want to
add some extra fun to your family evening, plan to view the fireworks
from the Gaylord Texan Hotel.

Led by the majestic Queen of Hearts, the cast of characters from Alice’s
Adventures in Wonderland parade through the Gaylord hotel atrium, to
the roof of the resort garage, and to a grand finale family event featuring
the Grapevine lake fireworks display and family fun & games.

Details, details
What: This event is for all ages and will have a DJ, games for kids, and
food and beverages for purchase. For more information about the fireworks
show, click here. For more about the Gaylord Texan event, go here.
When:
Friday, August 27, 2010
8:30-10:00PM ~ Family friendly parade, games and events
9:30PM ~ Fireworks over Lake Grapevine
Where: Parade starts in the Lone Star Atrium at the Gaylord Texan
Resort. View the fireworks on level 5 of the Resort Garage.
Click here for directions to the Gaylord Texan Resort.
Fireworks can also be viewed from any Grapevine Lake park at 9:30PM.
Find a map of viewing sites around Grapevine Lake here.
Cost: FREE for both local and hotel guests to attend.

::

:: FREE ~ Fort Worth Cow Camp at the Stockyards
Saturday, August 28, 2010

Fort Worth’s Cow Camp will present a fun and educational demonstration
about the tools, equipment and techniques used during the cattle drive era
of the late 1800′s.

Children and adults will have the opportunity for hands on experiences
including roping, sorting, saddling, cattle drive demonstrations and more.

Details, details
What: For more information, click here.
When: Saturday, August 28, 1:30 PM- 2:30 PM
Where: Saddle up behind the Fort Worth Livestock Exchange Building,
located at 131 E. Exchange Avenue. For directions, click here.
Cost: FREE!

::

:: FREE Cooking Technique Class at Williams-Sonoma
PLUS FREE Knife Sharpening

Saturday and Sunday, August 28-29, 2010

Improve your kitchen skills!
This week’s technique lesson at Williams Sonoma will demonstrate the
essential components of good knife skills. Learn how to correctly slice,
dice, chop, juilienne, and chiffonade. Bring a knife from home, and you
can even receive a complimentary knife sharpening (limit one sharpening
FREE per person).

Note: You’ll want to call to reserve your spot since class size is limited.

Details, details
What:
For more information, click here.
When: Saturday and Sunday, August 28-29 ~ Note: 1 hour class times
vary from store to store, so be sure to call for exact time & date.

Where: Click here to find a Williams Sonoma store near you.
Cost: FREE! Be sure to call your local store to RSVP.

::

:: FREE ~ Michael’s Arts & Crafts Stores Family Craft Event
Saturday, August 28, 2010

If your kiddos love crafts, you won’t want to miss this FREE creative
event. On Saturday morning, all Michael’s Arts and Crafts stores will
feature a fun family craft time where little one’s can capture their
handprints in clay ~ a perfect keepsake for Grandparent’s Day!

Details, details
What:
For more information, click here.
When: Saturday, August 28  ~ 10:00AM-2:00PM
Where:
All Michael’s Craft Stores. Go here to find a store near you.
Cost: FREE!

::

:: FREE Lowes Build and Grow Clinic: Make a School Bus Box
Saturday, August 28, 2010

This Saturday, bring your child to a Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinic to
help them learn a new woodworking skill and make a FREE project to
take home.

All workshops are FREE, but you should probably show up early to insure
you have a kit for your little ones.

Details, details
What: For more information and to register, click here.
When: Saturday, August 28, 2010 ~ 10:00-11:00AM
Where:
Lowes Home Improvement Stores
To find a participating location, click here.
Cost: FREE

::

Have a wonderful weekend!

Enjoy and Share! :)


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Home Depot Bargain: BUY 1 GET 1 FREE Flowering Bulbs Coupon

Is this cooler weather getting you in the mood to garden?
Sign up today for Home Depot’s FREE Garden Club Newsletter, and you’ll get a Buy 1 Spring-blooming Bulbs, Get 1 FREE Coupon, (sign up here).
By signing up, you’ll get other great coupons, alerts on unadvertised
discounts, and other special offers for gardening items.

I’ve already decided how I’m going to use my coupon.
I’ve got the perfect spot for fluffy white irises (hmmm…OR should I choose
royal purple???), and I’m thrilled to get these at half price!  These tall spikes
of flowering cheer happen to be one of the best Texas-friendly-neglect-taking
perennials to plant.  Irises survive the temperature extremes of North Texas
beautifully, give a lot of colorful punch for a few dollars, successfully come
back every year without effort, and have earned my “strong shall survive”
gardening seal of approval (read more about that here).

Learn More About Successful DFW Gardening.
Go here for a list of helpful and FREE
Internet Resources for Texas
and DFW area gardening.


Enjoy and Share! :)


FREE Resources for Gardening and Selecting
Easy-to-Grow Plants for DFW and North Texas

GREAT Sale at Amazon ~ Up to 75% OFF
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Know a College Student? Share These 8 Important Tips to Fight Campus Identity Theft

College students have plenty to juggle when it comes to school, studying, work, and their social life. Fighting identity theft also needs to make the list of priorities: here’s how!

Students Targeted for Identity Theft

According to a 2010 ID fraud survey report, more than 11 million people
became victims of identity theft in 2009. 11 million!! Young adults aged
18-24 took the longest to detect identity theft
and their average loss,
over $1,000, was roughly 5 times more than amounts lost by other age groups.

“Identity thieves don’t care if you’re a struggling student and don’t have a penny
to your name; sometimes all they want is to exploit your clean credit record,”
said David Polino, Better Business Bureau President. “Young adults that
establish good habits for monitoring and detecting fraud are laying a path
that will help create a healthy financial road for the rest of their lives.”

8 Easy Steps to Protect Students’ Identity

If you know a college-bound student, now’s the time to share with them
these eight easy steps to fight identity theft on campus:

1. Skip the School mailbox. These mail drops are not always secure and
can often be easily accessed in a dorm or apartment. To combat sticky fingers
in the mailroom, have sensitive mail sent to a permanent address such as a
parents’ home or a PO Box.

2. Use a lock and key. Important documents should be securely stored—
such as in a filing cabinet with a key. This includes social security card,
passport, bank and credit card statements.

3. Shred personal documents. Proper document destruction can go a
long way to protect yourself from this silent crime and because ID theft is
often committed by people we know, it’s important to guard your sensitive
information. A golden rule is to shred any paper documents that have
personal financial information rather than just toss them out for trash bin
diggers. Credit card offers that come in the mail should also hit the shredder
and not the trash.

4. Say No to Loans. Never loan your credit or debit card to anyone, even
if they are a friend. Also just say no if your friend (no matter how good a
friend) wants you to cosign for a loan or financing for items like a TV.

5. Keep Your Computer & Anti-virus Software Current. Make
sure your computer has up-to-date antivirus and spyware software. Also,
always install any updates and patches to your computer’s operating system,
internet browser, and virus software which help keep your computer safe
from any new ID theft advances.

6. Check Your Card Statements Carefully. Check your credit or
debit card statements closely each month for any suspicious activity. The
sooner you find potential fraud, the less you’ll suffer in the long run.
Don’t wait for “next month” to become three months from now, as a lot of
damage can be done in a short amount of time.

7. Shop Safely & With Trusted Vendors Online. When shopping on
unfamiliar web sites, check the company out first with BBB online (this goes
for Cell Phone web surfing as well). Also, look for the BBB Accredited Business
seal along with other trust seals and click on the seals to confirm that they
are legitimate.

8. Check Your Credit Report Annually (even if you don’t use your
card regularly).
There are 3 credit reporting bureaus and all should be
checked each year (this can be done for FREE!). Set a date, like your birthday
or as the New Year begins and plan to check your credit report for any
suspicious activity or inaccuracies. You can visit www.annualcreditreport.com
to do this for FREE.

The content of this post is adapted from the U.S. Better Business Bureau press
release.
Read the original PR release, here. For more advice on fighting fraud
visit BBB online at www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-finance.

We’d love to hear from you on this topic! How are you protecting your family’s ID? Do you have an identity theft story you can share?  How did you go about getting it resolved? Please let us know in the comments section of this post.

 

Enjoy and Share! :)


FREE Resources for Gardening and Selecting
Easy-to-Grow Plants for DFW and North Texas

GREAT Sale at Amazon ~ Up to 75% OFF
Clothes, Shoes & Accessories!

Want to Get The Most From Your Grocery Dollar?
.



Want to keep up with fresh ways to save money
and button down the family finances?

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If you found these savings tips helpful, we’d love to know!
Leave a note in the comments section or forward this
site to others with the button below.
 

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Back to School Art Supply Savings: Enjoy 40% OFF At Michael’s, 25% OFF At Hobby Lobby & 40% OFF At Aaron Brothers

Do you have art supplies on your back-to-school supply list?
These coupons just might come in handy!

Note: You can print and share these coupons as many times as you
want, but in most instances, only one coupon can be used per store
visit or transaction.

Enjoy and Share! :)

10 Easy Strategies to Save a Bundle on Prescriptions

Please Share with Teachers You Know:
15% OFF Discount At Container Store
~ Discount is Good ALL Year!

75% OFF Tools & Home Improvement at Amazon



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and button down the family finances?

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