2009 Holiday Gift Guide

The

Holidays To bring joy to the season, look inside for an overview of shopping destinations in the southof-the-river region and a preview of holiday-related family, arts and entertainment events. t h i s w e e k

n e w s pa p e r s

A d v e rt i s i n g

N O VEM B ER

Open House Fri, Sat, & Sun FREE Photos with SANTA! Saturday, Nov. 21 from 11 AM to 3 PM

11/6•1966218R•F

Our “fresh-cut” Christmas trees are out and ready!

Kissing Balls, Tree Ornaments, Garland, Boughs, Wreaths, and more!

2 0 ,

S u p p l e m e n t

2 0 0 9

3 Days only!

SAVE $3 on Spruce-tip Bundles

now only...

$12.99 & $16.99

starting at $21.99

Lakeville High School Choir

Great selection of beautiful pre-made

“Cheep” Bird seed

Spruce Pots

Nov. 21, 22, 28, 29, Dec. 5 from approx. 11am - 2pm.

We do custom work too!

M-F 8am - 7pm, Sat. 8am - 6pm, Sun. 9am - 5pm 20230 Kenrick Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044 952-469-3506 1/2 mile north of the new Hwy 70 bridge

2C

November 20, 2009 THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

Shoppers seek south-of-the-river retailers Gift-givers have little need to wander too far to find presents

Along that ride, shoppers will find a longtime chocolate factory and shop, a bike/snowboard shop, floral shops, clothing for men, women and children, big-box retailers selling everything from general merchandise to books to pet supplies and, if you are in the market for it, car dealerships.

Burnsville also has a collection of shops in its Heart of the City that also is home to the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, which hosts many seasonal events.

Nicollet Commons Park is decorated for the holidays along with the collection of buildings that surround it.

by Tad Johnson THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS

The south-of-the-river area is filled with plenty of options for finding that perfect gift for everyone on one’s holiday shopping list.

The cities of Burnsville, Eagan, Apple Valley, Rosemount, Lakeville and Farmington have it all, from shopping malls to independently operated shops in quaint downtown settings.

Burnsville One stop on many people’s list is Burnsville Center, which is located in the retail- and restaurant-filled County Road 42 area on both sides of the Interstate 35 split.

Burnsville Center has apparel for men, women and children, specialty gift shops, sporting goods, appliances, department stores, electronics and much more.

One of the longest-running

0 $% +

)( 11005

Apple Valley Photo by Rick Orndorf

If the weather cooperates, Nicollet people to use in the wintertime. malls in America, Burnsville Center has special events throughout the holiday season, including a standing gig by Santa Claus through Christmas Day. For those looking for something beyond the mall, one doesn’t

Commons Park has an ice rink for have to peer very far. There are major retailers and restaurants (for a break or purchasing a gift certificate) all along the County Road 42 strip from the Savage border to the retail hub of Apple Valley.

! " ###

The retail and restaurant nexus of Apple Valley is found at the crossroads of County Road 42 and Cedar Avenue.

Here, shoppers will find bigbox retailers and small, independently owned shops right next to each other.

Among the finds are shops specializing in sports apparel, antiques, shoes, floral, gifts, appli-

85�9 '

$% /

)( 11005

ances, picture framing and much more.

Just one block to the east, shoppers will find Fischer Marketplace, the Shops on Galaxie and other retail centers. They have such offerings as books, housewares, gifts, hardware and much more.

Eagan Shopping in Eagan has a prime-time center in Promenade Shopping Center at Yankee Doodle Road and Denmark Avenue or Town Centre Shops at Town Centre Drive. Shoppers can find bigbox retailers in that area along with small specialty retailers.

Eagan also is home to small shopping centers with unique finds at Diffley Marketplace and along Cliff Road from Highway 13 east toward Pilot Knob Road.

Among the finds are a bike shop, butcher shop, hardware store, big-box retail, video stores, home decorating and much more.

While the cities of Rosemount, Lakeville and Farmington have See Shopping, 3C

)

!

( 2

( %

,

$ !

### $%

&

' ( %

55ďż˝ 7 /

'

$

)( 11�88

)

!

* +

,

-

./

$ ! %/ 01

85�9 '

$% /

)( 11005

"

3

4

%

/ !

### /

THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT November 20, 2009

Shopping/from 2C their share of strip-mall shopping opportunities, they also have downtowns decorated for the holidays.

Rosemount

concentrations of independently owned and gift-giving-oriented shops in the area.

Along Holyoke Avenue, shoppers will find festively decorated gift shops, a dime store and a hardware store.

A little farther out from downtown shoppers can seek out the Kenwood Trail shopping area near 1-35 and Crossroads around Cedar Avenue and Dodd Road. The offerings run the gamut from big-box retailers to small independent shops.

Rosemount’s retail hub is found both in its downtown and also along County Road 42.

The city’s downtown retailers run the spectrum from yarn, quilting and antiques to hardware, yardwork machines and trophies.

Along County Road 42, there are shops that spe- Farmington cialize in small appliances, The city of Farmington sports equipment, and vid- has a quaint downtown eos and gaming. hosting some independent retailers selling gifts, sports Lakeville apparel, antiques, and lightLakeville’s downtown ly used items.

Along Highway 3 east of has several events devoted to the holidays, from those downtown and Pilot Knob organized by its Downtown Road to the north there Lakeville Business Asso- are two collections of busiciation to those taking place nesses offering items such at the Lakeville Area Arts as furniture, floral and gifts.

Center.

Downtown Lakeville Tad Johnson is at editor. offers one of the highest thisweek@ecm-inc.com.

IN BRIEF For more on shopping opportunities in the south metro, visit or call these offices or check out their Web sites.

Apple Valley Chamber of Commerce Address: 14800 Galaxie Ave., Suite 101, Apple Valley, MN 55124 Phone: (952) 432-8422 or 1-800-301-9435 Web site: www.applevalleychamber.com E-mail: info@applevalleychamber.com

Burnsville Chamber of Commerce Address: 101 W. Burnsville Parkway, No. 150, Burnsville, MN 55337 Phone: (952) 435-6000 Fax: (952) 435-6972 Web site: www.burnsvillechamber.com E-mail: chamber@burnsvillechamber.com

Burnsville Convention & Visitors Bureau Address: 101 W Burnsville Parkway – Suite 150B, Burnsville, MN 55337 Phone: (952) 898-5646 Fax: (952) 487-1777 Web site: www.burnsvillemn.com

Lakeville Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau Address: 19950 Dodd Blvd., Suite 101, Lakeville, MN 55044

Phone: (952) 469-2020 Web site: www.lakevillechamber.org E-mail: info@lakevillechamber.org

Dakota County Regional Chamber of Commerce Address: 1121 Town Centre Drive, No. 102, Eagan, MN, 55123 Phone: (651) 452-9872 Fax: (651) 452-8978 Web site: www.dcrchamber.com E-mail: info@dcrchamber.com

Eagan Convention and Visitors Bureau Address: 1501 Central Parkway, Eagan, MN 55121 Phone: (651) 675-5546 or 1-866-324-2620 Web site: http://eaganmn.com E-mail: enjoyeagan@eaganmn.com

Downtown Lakeville Business Association Address: 8790 207th St. W., Suite 204, P.O. Box 371, Lakeville, MN 55044 E-mail: dlba@frontiernet.net Office Hours: Mondays and Wednesdays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Judy Tschumper is the director of the Downtown Lakeville Business Association.

* *+ , -. ./

0 "

+%

! % # !

&' (11

! " ! #

$ $ % & ' !(((! "((

# $ % & ' & (

( %) # * +

% & ' ! ! ""

"

" #

& % '())

!

! "

" # ! $

# % % 2 & 11(11 3 4

!

4// 5 !

% )*+ ,, -

" , - . / ' ! ! " ) ' $ $ %)

0

' !( !

3C

4C

November 20, 2009 THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

Lakeville will be home to a host of holiday events Santa’s Secret Store Santa’s Secret Store will be Saturday, Dec. 5 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at McGuire Middle School, 21220 Holyoke Ave. W., Lakeville.

During the event, children can enjoy hassle-free holiday shopping. Santa’s Secret Store is designed for children to purchase gifts for family and friends. Gifts will be available, priced from $1 to $15.

Children and parents work together to make a shopping list including who to buy for and how much to spend on each person.

While parents wait in the coffee shop, volunteers help the children shop for their gifts, which are wrapped that day.

Volunteers are needed for this event, both Friday night, Dec. 4 and during the event Saturday, Dec. 5.

The Lakeville City Ballet’s Nutcracker 2009 will be Saturday, Nov. 28 at 2 and 6 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 29 at 1:30 p.m. at the Lakeville South High School Theater.

Tickets can be purchased in person, by telephone or online at Lakeville Arts Center, 20195 Holyoke Ave., Lakeville, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Ticket prices are $17.50 for seniors and children 12 years and under and $19.50 for adults.

For group rates of 10 or more call (952) 985-4640 All ticket prices at the door are $20 per person: On performance days remaining tickets will be sold for $20 at Lakeville South High School Theater, starting one hour prior to the show. There are no refunds.

A ticket will be exchanged, if a ticketholder wants to attend a different show, upon availability.

For more information, go online at www.lakeville-rapconnect. com.

InPulse

InPulse will perform at the Lakeville Area Arts Center in December.

Among the volunteer areas are shopper helpers, gift wrappers, and Friday night set-up.

Interested volunteers should call (952) 985-4610 to receive a volunteer packet with full details.

For more information, contact the Lakeville Parks & Recreation Department at (952) 985-4600.

Holiday Art Sale The Holiday Art Sale and Empty Bowl Fundraiser will be Friday, Dec. 11 from noon-5 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 12: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Lakeville Area Arts Center, 20965 Holyoke Ave. This annual holiday art sale features artwork by students and

8<< =42> =<?@ ?= 248=<

Nutcracker

instructors. Shoppers can choose from a variety of pottery, mixed media, painting, and jewelry.

The sale is also part of an Empty Bowls fundraiser for the local Community Action Council foodshelf. Every bowl represents a hungry stomach that, together, donations during the event can fill.

For more information, contact the Lakeville Area Arts Center at (952) 985-4640.

There will be several holiday-related events happening in the city of Lakeville during the months of November and December.

Among them are:

*!)% + , - '

. -!)/& 0 . ! (1 2//, 0 . +

' , % 0 . 3 2//, - 0 . - ( - ' 0

+ , ! ! & '

4! & ' 4 ' $) ' '!

5 ! '!

6 %

/ &, ' ! ' 5 1 / ' 1! ' !

7 ) !' ) ,,' 5 8( !/ 9 ' :

: $,' 5 - - ,,'

";; / ( ' 5 : & 2(( '' ' :! ' ,,' 5 : ' 6 ! ) 6

9 ' /' 5 '' '

InPulse, a male a capella group, will perform Friday, Dec. 18 and Saturday, Dec. 19 at 7:30 p.m. both nights at the Lakeville Area Arts Center at 20965 Holyoke Ave. Matt, Gabe, Andy, and Elliott are coming home for the holidays to perform holiday favorites a cappella-style. This concert is billed as great for the whole family, and aims to be an energetic toe-tapping, hand-clapping performance.

Purchase tickets for $15 online, or by calling (952) 985-4640.

! " # ! $ $! % & ! $ $ $! # ' ! # $! ( % ! &

) # * +

' , % -

. / 0 %

!

) &

- 1 - 2 0/

* +

3 / 04/ 4

! "

% $ &&

' & ( & & %) $

# * "

+&& , *

! ""

# $$$ !% & !' ( ) +A6 8< 4= 2?

$ - . - /

###$ $

THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT November 20, 2009

5C

Eagan Art House to host craft activities The following holiday activities are slated at the Eagan Art House.

Handmade Holiday Ornaments For adults and children ages 5 and over, this family workshop is designed for grownups and children to work together to create holiday keepsake ornaments. All supplies provided. Fee is for adult/child pair. Register the child for the pair. To register additional children, call (651) 675-5500.

Class No. 15380 will meet Saturday, Dec. 5, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Cost is $22/ adult-child pair, $10/additional child.

Instructor is Holly Landauer.

Register by Monday, Nov. 30.

Kids Holiday Gift Workshop For ages 6-11, this workshop is a way for children to make their own gifts for their family and friends. The instructor will guide the children through two or three projects that they can wrap and then give as gifts. Shhh. Some details are secret. All supplies provided.

Cost is $20/person Instructor is Holly Landauer.

Class No. 15394 meets Saturday, Dec. 5 from 1-3 p.m.

Class No. 15395 meets Monday, Dec. 7 from 6-8 p.m.

Register by Monday, Nov. 30 for either class.

An Old Fashioned Holiday to be held at Holz Farm The Friends of the Farm invite local residents to get into the holiday spirit early as they celebrate their 10th annual Old Fashioned Holiday event from noon to 3:30 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 6, at Holz Farm, 4665 Manor Drive, Eagan.

There is no admission to the 1940s era family farm, and all events are free.

Visitors will experience caroling, holiday music on the organ, hayrides, holiday cookies as they were prepared on the farm in the 1940s, cider, a craft activity, a bonfire and more.

People are encouraged to bring their cam-

eras as Santa will be there to talk to children.

The Eagan Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chorus will sing at 1 p.m. and the Women of Note will perform at 2 p.m.

For more information, call the Eagan Parks and Recreation Department at (651) 675-5500 or go online at www.cityofeagan. com.

Another event The Eagan Women of Note will perform a Holiday Concert at Peace Church, 2180 Glory Drive, in Eagan at 4:30 p.m. Sunday Dec. 13.

��

��

! "#

" # $ % ! " $ & $ " "

!"#" ! $

& '( '( )* + , .( + , +' ' / 0

'( '( )* +---

+ 1 &' 0 +' '

. , ' 0 + 1 +/ ' ( , &( 1 & , ' 1 0 .

2 0 & 3 & 0 ' 0 $ 4' 1 ' '( - .( + 11 + / &( + & /

' 5 + 3 55 , ! "# $% &!#'# (!

- ../ 0 1�� 02. �1 . " *

6 + & $ & +' ' ' 7 . , 7 6 +' 0 + 1

1 + $ +' & += + . ' +

ďż˝

' ( ) & * $ + $ !

$ * , "# ! "

5 6"889 8" 9

!9 :" 9 $ ; 3 <

ďż˝

/00 ! + # ' # 34 0

ďż˝

! ! " "

# ��

��

� ��� ! " # $ % ��& '() * # # +

# ,

-./ .ďż˝ # ( 0 # 1 # !2$ # , "

ďż˝. .ďż˝ -./ .ďż˝ 3 * #

# ( 0 4 , 3

#

* " **

5

" **

"

# 5

* % ** " ' * (

) * # !'()#$

5 3 # 6 3 , -�� 7 8 " - ��9 : � - & '() ( # 1 ; < # ## � ��� -� ��� : � & '() + * < # ## ��9 : � �& '()

��9 : � �& '() 8 # # ,=

> # """ # *

# ( * , #

* " " * ;5

# -./ .-�� $ % " "

# ��

8

3 - # " ( 0 ? * @ "

** "

#7 # +

# ,

-./ .ďż˝ # ( 0 # 1 # !2$ # , "

ďż˝. .ďż˝ -./ .ďż˝ 3 * #

# ( 0

#

% ** " ' * (

) * # !'()#$

5 3 # 6 3 , -�� 7 8 " - ��9 : � - & '() ( # 1 ; < # ## � ��� -� ��� :� & '() + * < # ## ��9 : � �& '()

��9 : � �& '() ( 0 # 3 #

,

3 *

3 * # " ďż˝ # 8 # # ,=

> # """ # *

# ' *

# # ,* * ,*

# ' * 3 ,

;5

# -./ .-�� A -�� ( # * 0 B '** # # 3

'ďż˝ ďż˝?C%D

6C

November 20, 2009 THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

Dakota Valley Symphony to perform â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;A Choral Christmasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; For the Dakota Valley Symphonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 24th concert season, the group will perform â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Choral Christmasâ&#x20AC;? at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6 at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center.

The show will include: â&#x20AC;˘ Shaw/Bennett: The Many Moods of Christmas â&#x20AC;˘ Amundson: Angelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dance â&#x20AC;˘ Humperdinck: Sandmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Song, Evening Prayer and Dream Pantomime from Hansel and Gretel â&#x20AC;˘ Rutter: Brother Heinrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas, Narrator, chorus and orchestra â&#x20AC;˘ Bach/Stokowski: Wachet Auf â&#x20AC;˘ Herbert: March of the Toys from Babes in Toyland (150th anniversary of his birth) â&#x20AC;˘ Audience Sing-a-long Ticket prices are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, and $5 for students.

All seats are assigned seating in Proscenium Stage Auditorium For ticket information, go online at http:// dakotavalleysymphony.org, purchase tickets: â&#x20AC;˘ At the Burnsville Performing Arts Center Box Office, which is open Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. or Saturday 10 a.m.- 2 p.m., or â&#x20AC;˘ Order from Ticketmaster (Ticketmaster fees will apply) at www.ticketmaster.com and type Burnsville Performing Arts Center in Photos submitted the search field, or For the Dakota Valley Symphonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 24th concert season, the group will â&#x20AC;˘ Call Ticketmaster toll free at 1-800-982- perform â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Choral Christmasâ&#x20AC;? at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6 at the Burnsville 2787.

Performing Arts Center.

Holiday on Main will be held in downtown Lakeville on Saturday, Dec. 5 from 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Santa, Mrs. Claus, facepainters, live reindeer, dance

and musical performances, trolley rides, treats and more will be part of the festivities at the Lakeville Mall, Lakeville Area Arts Center, Senior Center and Heritage Library.

( ) "

(

( ) ! **

2

3 ( )

!

3

( / 0 1' ''# & + , - ) . & * / , 0

!

2 3

3

/ 0 14 ''# 1 2 3 % 0

! " # $ % & # & % & ' '

! " # " $% &'

$ ( # ) "* ' + - ./ # " -0 0 " 1 2

! " # $ ! % # ! &

Holiday on Main in Lakeville

+ ,

- .

may attend free, although the event is not sponsored

by American Girl LLC. Space is limited and registration is required.

Tickets are $15 per person (or $10 for SCHS Members).

Teas take place in the Historic 1908 Stans House, 128 Second Ave. W., Shakopee.

For tickets call (952) 445-0378 or e-mail info@ scottcountyhistory.org or mail Scott County Historical Society, 235 Fuller St. S., Shakopee, MN 55379.

All inquiries are welcome. The societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Web site is at www.scottcountyhistory.org.

!"#$ %& ' ("#$ ) * % ' * %

FrĂśhliche Weihnachten!

People can experience a German Christmas at the historic Stans House â&#x20AC;&#x201C; decorated for the holiday season this December.

Visitors can enjoy ethnic food, a craft, a special prize and savor tasty goodies while learning about the history of celebrating the Christmas holiday in Germany. The event can serve as a start of a new, or continue a fun holiday tradition with family and friends.

The events include: â&#x20AC;˘ Adult Tea â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thursday, Dec. 10, 6:30-8 p.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Girls Teas â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Saturday, Dec. 12, 1:30-3 p.m. and Thursday Dec. 17, 6:30-8 p.m. American Girl Dolls

Christmas Teas planned at the Historic 1908 Stans House

THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT November 20, 2009

Breakfast with Santa slated in Rosemount Santa Claus is coming to Rosemount to spend the morning with families from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12 during Breakfast with Santa at the Rosemount Community Center gymnasium, 13885 South Robert Trail.

Children will have a chance to create various holiday crafts and play games in the gymnasium.

At the same time family can enjoy a continental style breakfast consisting of cereal, muffins, donuts, fruit, juice, hot cocoa and coffee.

Event planners encourage people to bring their cameras to take pictures with Santa.

Children and adults both need to pre-register for this event. Register early, space is limited and may fill prior to the registration deadline.

Deadline is Monday, Dec. 7 or until all spaces fill.

Photo by Jessica Harper Admission price is $5 per Children will have a chance to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus during the Breakfast with Santa child and adult. event at the Rosemount Community Center.

( )!! #$$

( )!! #$$ / % / ( )!! #$$ .. 2 34 3* 5*

! " # $ % ! & " ' " ()! * " + " , ( % ! & " & "

- . /

0 - 1

!" #$$ %& '

.. 2 34 3* 5*

The Rosemount United Methodist Women will hold their annual Holiday Bazaar from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21 at the church, 14770 Canada Ave, Rosemount.

There will be a wide selection of vendors featuring: rag rugs, hand-painted glass, American Girl Doll clothes, jewelry, purses, totes, baby items, chemical free cleaning solutions, organic anti-stress aromatherapy and healing products, Tastefully Simple, Norwegian collectibles, Christmas gifts, stocking stuffers and decorations and much more.

Gift wrapping will also be available.

Children from ages 3-8 may purchase gifts for their families for a nominal price in the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas Store from 9

a.m.-noon.

The bake shop will have homemade breads, cookies, candy, pickles and apple butter for sale.

Hand-tied quilts in various sizes and gift baskets will be available. Bids will be taken on a hand quilted twin sized quilt.

From 9-11 a.m. the coffee shop will be available. A lunch of homemade Eleven Bean and Ham Soup or Turkey-Rice Soup will be served from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. for $4 and a slice of pie will be available for $1.50.

Proceeds support local and international mission projects that enhance the development and leadership of women, children and youth.

For more information call the church at (651) 423-2475.

Rosemount United Methodist Women to have Holiday Bazaar

! " " # "

!

7C

!

" " "

#

$

&

'

!" # " $ % % $ #$ &

8C

November 20, 2009 THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

BBB advice on using layaway for holiday purchases

Event to light up Lakeville

As more families struggle in the tough economy, retailers are trying to make paying for holiday gifts more flexible by offering layaway options.

With layaway experiencing a comeback, your Better Business Bureau offers the following guidance on how to use this old-fashioned payment plan in lieu of credit cards.

Many businesses are shaking the dust off their layaway programs for todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beleaguered consumer.

Kmartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s layaway program saw double-digit increases in customers and sales in 2008 and, according to the company, the word â&#x20AC;&#x153;layawayâ&#x20AC;? had more than double the interest among U.S. web searchers in August 2009 than it had in August 2008.

According to The Record newspaper in New Jersey, consumers even used layaway to purchase school supplies and clothes â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

The Downtown Lakeville Business Association, its building owners and businesses will host the second annual Downtown Holiday Lighting Ceremony at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 24 at Pioneer Plaza. Entertainment will be provided by the Lakeville North High School Now and Then Singers. Refreshments will be served compliments of Mainstreet Coffee Cafe and Kazollyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sweet Shop.

rather than just big-ticket items like TVs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a sign of our rough economic times that consumers are turning to layaway to purchase the basics, rather than just luxury items,â&#x20AC;? said Dana Badgerow, President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For many families this holiday season, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just gifts and decorations that will be purchased on layaway, but also the basic items needed to get by in everyday life.â&#x20AC;?

Buying items on layaway is different from putting them on a credit card because the buyer isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t charged interest on the purchase and canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take the item home until it is paid off.

When purchasing items on layaway, the buyer must typically make a down payment of 10 to 20 percent and pay any service or plan fees for the store to hold the item for them.

The customer then has

typically 30 to 90 days to make periodic payments to pay off the balance. Once it is paid off, the customer can take the items home.

As a complement to instore layaway, some stores provide online layaway services for purchasing items through the retailerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Web site. Additionally, third-party businesses have sprung up for the purpose of setting up layaway plans online between customers and retailers that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t already have a layaway program.

Customers make periodic payments to the third-party layaway service provider.

Once the item is fully paid for, the business then buys the item from the retailer and ships it to the customer.

When buying items on layaway, BBB advises consumers to get everything in writing and offers the following checklist of questions to ask: â&#x20AC;˘ How much time do I have to pay off the item? â&#x20AC;˘ When are the payments

due? â&#x20AC;˘ How much do I have to put down? â&#x20AC;˘ Are there any storage or service plan fees? â&#x20AC;˘ What happens if I miss a payment? Are there penalties? Does the item return to inventory? â&#x20AC;˘ Can I get a refund or store credit if I no longer want the item after making a few payments? â&#x20AC;˘ What happens if the item goes on sale after Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve put it on layaway? â&#x20AC;˘ Does the retailer or third party layaway service have a good BBB rating?

The BBB provides BBB Reliability Reports on nearly four million businesses across North America. BBB Reliability Reports offer the BBBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unbiased evaluation and include a rating and customer complaint history. Consumers can check out the reputation of online merchants and brick-andmortar stores for free at www.thefirstbbb.org.

Photo by Derrick Williams

#

$$%& '$ "(" (

! "

THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT November 20, 2009

Downtown Dazzle Days starts Dec. 5

9C

Downtown Dazzle Days in Farmington is planned from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5 where there will be special holiday shopping deals.

The community is invited to attend the annual Community Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6 p.m. Dec. 5 in the McVicker Lot on Third Street in downtown Farmington.

Individuals and families are invited to purchase ribbons from downtown merchants and write family names on them and the large red ribbons will be hung on the tree.

Santa Claus will also make a visit to Farmington throughout the day Dec. 5.

One scheduled visit will be from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5 inside the new Photo by Kara Hildreth secondhand store Shidor loSanta Claus will visit Farmington during its Downtown cated at the corner of Third Dazzle event to hand out treats to children. and Oak Street.

! "

# " "

$

Photo by Kara Hildreth

Downtown Dazzle Days last year featured horse-drawn trolley rides through downtown Farmington.

ďż˝

ďż˝

ďż˝ ďż˝

%

! "# $ %# &

ďż˝

ďż˝

10C

November 20, 2009 THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

Lights are back for Dakota Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Christmas in the Villageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Volunteers needed for Dakota City Christmas After an absence of several years, colorful Christmas lights will return to Dakota City Heritage Village for its annual holiday event. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Christmas in the Villageâ&#x20AC;? is scheduled for two weekends in December, Dec. 5 and 6 and 12 and 13.

To showcase the lights, the village will be open from 1 to 8 p.m. each day.

Outdoor trees will be lighted along with the decorated trees in the 1900-era buildings. Dakota City is located at the Fairgrounds in Farmington at 4008-220th St. W. New highlights will include the opportunity for children to visit Mrs. Claus in the Post Office and write a letter to Santa along with being able to peek into Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s workshop in the Harness Shop. Old-fashioned Christmas candy, homemade bonnets, purses and other items will be sold in the Gift Shop. If the weather permits, an ice skating

Photo by Tad Johnson

Favorite features will return to Christmas in the Village, including a strolling Santa Claus, horse-drawn trolley rides, and hands-on crafts in the Library. rink will be created.

A raffle offering an afghan and a quilt will be available in the General Store, and the Millinery

Shop will host a quilt and craft display in the Millinery Shop. In the Print Shop, children will be able to make Christmas cards for

Dakota City Heritage Village is seeking volunteers for â&#x20AC;&#x153;Christmas in the Village.â&#x20AC;?

The event is scheduled for 1 to 8 p.m. Dec. 5, 6, 12 and 13.

Dakota City is a 1900sera village located at the Fairgrounds in Farmington at 4008-220th St. W. Prior to the event, groups and families are needed to help decorate the buildings. During the event, volunteers are needed to work four-hour shifts, either as costumed interpreters in the buildings or as noncostumed helpers in food service.

For information or to volunteer, call 651-4608050.

! " # $ %

! ! " "

ďż˝ ďż˝ ďż˝

ďż˝

ďż˝

ďż˝

ďż˝ ďż˝

ďż˝

ďż˝

ďż˝ ďż˝

members of the armed forces. The Blacksmith Shop will make shoes for Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reindeer and an artist will offer silhouettes in the

Town Hall. Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mailbag and a Christmas train will be displayed in the Depot.

Favorite features will return, including a strolling Santa Claus, horse-drawn trolley rides, hands-on crafts in the Library, carolers and sing-alongs, and the Christmas pageant in the Schoolhouse, Food and beverages will be available in the Drugstore. Holiday cooking and baking will be underway in the Harris House. Soap making will be demonstrated and soap and Alpaca yarn will be available for purchase.

Buildings will be staffed by costumed interpreters.

Admission prices to the event have been lowered.

The cost will be $2 per child for those ages 3 through 12 years old and $3 per person for those ages 13 and up.

Children under 3 will be admitted free and there will be a maximum charge of $10 for each carload.

For information, call (651) 460-8050.

THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT November 20, 2009

Holiday musical â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Junior Clausâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; brings Broadway to Burnsville Before hitting the road for a six-week national tour in November 2010, the holiday-themed musical comedy â&#x20AC;&#x153;Junior Clausâ&#x20AC;? will debut at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center this December. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Junior Claus,â&#x20AC;? which features a cast of Minnesota actors and will play Dec. 10-27 at the Burnsville arts center, is currently under development at Pearl Studios in New York City. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We wanted to bring a slice of Broadway to Burnsville,â&#x20AC;? said co-producer Sam Graber of The Directors, the Minneapolis-based production company behind â&#x20AC;&#x153;Junior Clausâ&#x20AC;?. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a big New York show with a very local flavor.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Junior Clausâ&#x20AC;? is billed as â&#x20AC;&#x153;the hilarious and heartwarming tale that takes place days before Christmas Eve at the North Pole, when Santa Claus stubs a toe and young Junior must learn the art of climbing down chim-

Farmington Toys for Town collects toys Santa Claus will continue his long-standing tradition of meeting children at Burnsville Center this year at the regional shopping mall from Nov. 14 through Dec. 24.

Photo by Rick Orndorf

Santa to meet children at Burnsville Center neys, driving wild reindeer and everything else that goes into making the big present delivery.â&#x20AC;?

Performances will be held at 7 p.m. Dec. 10-13, 17-20, 22-23 and 26. A 2 p.m. matinee will be offered weekends, Dec. 12-13, 19-20 and 26-27. Tickets are $21.50 for youths and seniors and $32 for adults. Tickets are available by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 982-2787 or at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, (952) 895-4680. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Andrew Miller

11C

Start making your list and checking it twice, Santa is coming to Burnsville Center from Nov. 14 to Dec. 24. He will be at the mall Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Santa is cosponsored by Junior Claus , a family musical spectacular playing at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, Dec.

10-27. Special appearances from characters from Junior Claus will be at the Santa set on Nov. 27, Nov. 28, Dec. 5, Dec. 12 and Dec. 19. For exact times, check the Burnsville Center Web site www.burnsvillecenter. com.

Tickets for Junior Claus are on sale at www.ticketmaster.com. Santa photos are taken by Cherry Hill Photography.

The annual Toys for Town drive will collect toys from Nov. 6 to Dec. 18 at the drop-off locations at Econo Foods, Farmington City Hall and the Farmington Police station.

People may bring unwrapped toys to a drop-off location and join the wrapping and delivery party at 8 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 19 at the Farmington Senior High School, 20655 Flagstaff Ave. Monetary donations are also accepted and shoppers will do the toy buying.

For more information, contact the Farmington Police Department at (651) 280-6700.

Burnsvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Heart of the City Lighting Ceremony is Nov. 25 The seasonal lights in the Heart of the City area will come alive during a free, fun and festive ceremony that has become a Burnsville tradition.

The 10th annual Heart of the City Lighting Ceremony is set for Wednesday, Nov. 25 from 6 to 6:45 p.m.

The event will be held at Nicollet Commons Park, located just west of Nicollet Avenue and north of 126th Street. Free parking is available at the Heart of the City Park and Ride Ramp located one block north of Burnsville Parkway on Pillsbury Avenue.

People can join in the countdown with the crowd as the switch is flipped bringing over 200,000 mini-lights, over 200 streetlight snowflakes and the 30foot tree to life. The ceremony also offers entertainment by local youth choirs and holiday treats.

&1 2 341567

! "

# $ %

"

&1 2323 41567

89 " # : % &&

* ( + ,$&&-

! " #$ % && $ ' ( )

# # $

! " #$ % && $ ' ( )

# # $

"

.

/

) # / + ,$&& $

0

! " #$ % && $ ' ( )

# # $

!

November 20, 2009 THISWEEK NEWSPAPERS ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

!" # $% & # ' $

( ) ) $% & #

( ) ) $ *

& )%

+ #" , ! -

! " # $ % &%

�

! "#$

% & ! '

�

"()) ' * * +

, -

' - *

* . *

12C

!

" " " "

" # $ %

! " # $ %" & ' () & + #,+ - . &) % % / 0 % 1 2 # - .

& & !'

!"## $ % $

&

'

&

( ")* +,* ")") ( -

. (/ +* 0 (

1 !� )

0 1 !� 3 % 0

!� , - $ %$

�

� � �

�

� �

# $ % &

!