
Blockbuster savings
It’s official. All remaining Blockbuster stores are closing on Jan. 12. Plenty of used DVDs and Blu-rays are on the shelves that you can nab for just a few bucks. The rest of the merchandise, including posters, collectibles, candy, new DVDs and Blu-rays, ranges from 30 to 70 percent off. As with most liquidation sales, as the end date nears, the discounts increase. True bargain hunters check in daily to catch the next price drop and best selection.
I don’t know
Did you receive an iPad mini, iPhone or MacBook Air in your stocking? Are you asking, “What’s this button for?” Get the answer and more at one of the many free workshops held in Apple Stores around town. Explore the basics of any Apple device. Or learn how to create slideshows and edit home movies, as well as how to make documents, spreadsheets and presentations. These hour-long workshops require a reservation, and the lineup changes weekly. Space is limited and classes fill fast, so be quick with that Enter key.
Sow your oats
The 18th annual Lafayette Quaker Oatmeal Festival gets cookin’ with its traditional hot oatmeal breakfast on Jan. 11 from 7:30 a.m. to noon at Pioneer Elementary School (101 E. Baseline Road). Some 150 choices make for the world’s largest toppings bar. In addition, you can enjoy pancakes, muffins, juice and coffee. Note: lines are shorter between 7:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. The festival also features a health fair with free and low-cost screenings for both adults and children at the Bob L. Burger Recreation Center (111 W. Baseline Road) from 8 a.m. to noon. Breakfast tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for kids (3 to 12) and seniors (60+), free for under 3.
Appetizing deal
Here’s one of the most mouthwatering deals we’ve seen. Golden’s The Briarwood Inn is known for its five-star fare. However, you don’t have to take out a loan to sample the menu. Every Tuesday between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., order its Signature Appetizer Tray for just $10 (regularly $39). This feast for the eyes and palate includes cocktail shrimp, chicken liver paté, smoked salmon butter, olive tapenade, blended Wisconsin cheddar cheese with port wine, spinach and water chestnut mousseline.
Each Monday, Laura & Bryan at compile “Cheap Checklist” to help cheapskates find deals, discounts and freebies. Know of a deal? E-mail info@milehighonthecheap.com 10 to 14 days in advance.



