Vancouver BC area adventures, hotels, online shopping, travel deals

BC residents? You might recognize some of this scenery

2011-12-24T20:03:00.000-08:00

http://northdelta.net/santa.swf

christmas 2011,vancouver,canada

Starbucks VIA coffee - any opinions?

2011-12-24T19:36:00.000-08:00

So last week the wife and I went with some friends to watch The Muppet Movie for a matinee. I had 3 cups of VIA from about 7 am to 2pm. I thought, oh well it's instant coffee, I won't get too buzzed from it.

During the movie I was so jittery that I had to get up and walk 8 blocks around the theater, at least 3 times. I missed at least half the movie, and I love the Muppets and Jason Segal.

When I got home I looked up the info on VIA coffee and found it was mainly ground espresso with a very large caffeine content.

Mind you, it tasted great and I absolutely love Starbucks, but I would have to warn you if you are prone to anxiety attacks like myself, please be careful!

Try the decaf!

By the way, Merry Christmas Everyone!

G. "Buzzed" Jimmy

Black Bear Captured on Garbage Truck in Downtown Vancouver, BC Canada

2011-12-13T04:54:00.000-08:00

On December 12, a black bear was found on a garbage truck in downtown Vancouver, BC, Canada. The bear was tranquilized and helped off the garbage truck by a conservation officer and several Vancouver police officers. Apparently the young bear hitched a ride in North Vancouver before the truck proceeded to downtown Vancouver for another pickup.

Only in Canada! (Courtesy of CBC News Video)

tags: bear, vancouver, funny, police, black bears, video clip

Entertainment 2012 Coupon Books on sale

2011-11-18T18:38:00.000-08:00

Click the link to the right to save extra this week on incredible coupon deals for Vancouver, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, LA, Dallas, NYC and more. Great Christmas Holiday Gifts

tags: holiday gifts, free shipping,vancouver, seattle, discount, sale

Canadian retailers not competitive? Shop online in the US !

2011-11-18T16:05:00.000-08:00

With the Canadian dollar close to par with the US buck now, BC residents can save a bundle on designer clothes, shoes, housewares and more by making a short trip across the border to the Seattle Premium Outlets in Tulalip Washington (just north of Everett). You can minimize border waits by taking the Quick Shuttle Bus service for approx. $51 return from Vancouver, Richmond or Surrey. Save an extra 5% by booking online!
Quick Shuttle Bus info:
Daily scheduled service from downtown Vancouver, BC to Seattle Premium Outlets, Downtown Seattle and SeaTac Airport. Reservations required, at least 24 hours in advance.

Quick Shuttle is a Seattle, Vancouver Transportation Service. Quick Shuttle provides bus transportation from Seatac Airport, Downtown Seattle, Tulalip (Seattle Premium Outlets), Bellingham Airport to Vancouver Airport, Downtown Vancouver and Cruise Ship Terminals.

Located next door to the Tulalip Casino, Seattle Premium Outlets has 100 outlet stores including Adidas, Aeropostale, Banana Republic, BCBG, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Coach, Eddie Bauer, Fossil, GAP Outlet, Guess Outlet, J Crew, Jockey, Levi's / Dockers, L'eggs Hanes Bali Playtex, Lucky Brand, NIKE, PacSun, Ralph Lauren, Restoration Hardware and Tommy Hilfiger.

Canadian residents who have been out of Canada for 24-47 hours can claim $50 in purchases at Canada Customs without duty or taxes; more than 48 hours but less than 7 days, $400 ; and 7 days or more, $750 . If the value of the declaration exceeds the personal exemption, you must pay duty and HST on the remaining value.

If you're looking for a hotel in the area, you can book the Tulalip Resort Hotel using Expedia , or check out the deals in Everett, Lynnwood or Seattle or use Priceline.com to bid on a hotel room in the general area. You can also find some great hotel deals in the area using the Entertainment 2012 Vancouver or Seattle Coupon Book.

Seattle Premium Outlets is about a one and a half hour drive south of the border, just north of Marysville, WA. If you're driving, take the 116th street exit from I5 and follow the signs...

If you'd rather avoid border lineups, online retailers that ship to Canada include JC Penney, Land's End, Altrec and Bare Necessities. You can access their websites from here.

One of the funniest new comedians around, Andrew J. Rivers from Seattle

2011-07-14T14:38:00.000-07:00

I literally laughed my head off, but I have since re-attached it, although it seems to be facing a funny angle.

I hope he gets his own TV show someday! I really enjoyed the clip with Andrew and his Dad (Bob Rivers) on the radio show ( http://andrewjrivers.com/videos/ ) . It’s great to see families that have no shame about what they joke about!

Viewer discretion advised.

tags: comedy, stand up comedians, seattle, vancouver, funny, andrew rivers

Vote YES to extinguish the HST

2011-07-07T00:22:00.000-07:00

The Liberals' HST hurts families who already pay more for medical services premiums, ferry fares, hydro rates, tuition fees and other expenses that have been ramped up by the Liberals.

The HST impact on a family budget is much more than $350
According to a Statistics Canada study commissioned by the Times Colonist, the average married couple with a child pays at least $735 more per year with the Liberals’ HST.

A typical family with two parents each making $50,000 will pay over $1,000 more, according to the government's panel report on the HST.

The impact of the HST on families gets bigger as children get older: school supplies, adult-sized clothing for teenagers, summer camps and other expenses are all taxed an extra seven percent under the HST.
These figures don't even include the impact of the HST on big-ticket items. Buying a new home or paying for a new roof or other major home renovations are even more expensive for the average family because the HST taxes those items at seven per cent, not zero per cent as they were before.
For example, a $30,000 renovation incurs $2,100 in additional tax under the HST, compared to zero provincial sales tax previously.

7% HST vs. 0% PST
The HST adds a seven per cent tax on many items that previously had no provincial sales tax.
These are just some of the things that cost families 7% more under the HST:

Home renovations, such as a new roof;
Energy-saving appliances for the home;
Appliance repair and maintenance, housecleaning, landscaping and snow removal;
Basic phone and TV service;
Smoke detectors and safety equipment;
Dietary supplements, vitamins and fitness trainers;
Health services not covered by medicare such as massage therapy and acupuncture;
Dry cleaning, tailoring, beauticians and haircuts;
Coach bus, taxi, rail and domestic air service;
Restaurant meals, prepared foods at the grocer;
Theatre tickets, movies, sports and musical events;
Art, dance and sports lessons;
Postage, magazines and newspapers;
Gym memberships, sports lessons;
Summer camps, amusement parks and tourist attractions;
Bicycles, bike repair;
Field and facility rental (forcing associations to raise player fees);
Pre-natal classes;
Most wedding expenses (catering, planning and other services);
Countless school supplies;
New homes over $525,000;
Real estate fees;
Funerals.

Canadian online shopping and travel website - discount deals

2011-04-10T11:15:00.000-07:00

Visit this new website for online deals on Canadian shopping and travel, free shipping offers and more. Merchants include Amazon Canada, Sears.ca, Expedia, Travelocity and more:

http://www.canada-shopping.ca/

tags: books, dvd, music, clothing, electronics, computers, travel, cheap flights, vacation packages, hotels, vancouver, victoria, calgary, winnipeg, toronto, montreal, halifax canada

JCPenney online free shipping offer 2011

2011-04-08T06:25:00.000-07:00

Get Free US Shipping from JC Penney this week with the coupon promo code here .

Take advantage of sale prices up to 50% off in every department. If you live in Canada you can get free shipping to a US mailbox such as Mailboxes International in Blaine Washington. JC Penney also ships to Canada although the free shipping offer does not apply.

tags: jcpenney free shipping, promotion coupon code, sale, canada, jcpenny, levis, relic watches, shoes, lingerie, shapewear

Updated free shipping deals for After Christmas gifts from JC Penney

2010-12-09T14:48:00.000-08:00

See the previous post for updated promo coupon codes for JC Penney.

tags: jc penney gift ideas, christmas, 2011, toys, video games, electronics, jcpenny, coupon deals, cross border shopping, vancouver, seattle

JCPenney 2011 free US shipping coupon promo code offer and online gift sale

2010-09-12T06:07:00.000-07:00

Check out the current JCPenney.com free US shipping offer.

If you have a US shipping address (Blaine, Point Roberts Washington, etc.) you can get free shipping on your order using the current coupon promo code. JCPenney has a great online sale on Christmas gifts, winter jackets, sweaters, swimwear, board shorts, bedding, housewares, Levi's jeans, Dockers and Haggar pants, toys, jewellry and watches and lots more, including online outlet items...

JCPenney also ships to Canada and the UK for a reasonable price. Find out more at http://northdelta.net/canadaspecials.htm

For US online Christmas shopping deals, check out Xmas-Store.com, featuring many free shipping offers and gift ideas.

tags: january, february, 2011, black friday deals, winter coats, swimwear, swim suits, shorts, september, back to school, christmas, december, coupon promo code, kitchenaid mixers, relic watches, seiko, levis jeans, gifts, docker pants, sale, free shipping, jc penney, uk, canada, canadian, arizona jeans, cuisinart, jackets, lingerie, flexees, shapewear, bali bras, plus size

Get a $25 Free Bonus from ING Direct Canada when you open an account

2010-08-11T07:39:00.000-07:00

ING Direct Canada is offering you a $25 bonus when you open an account online or over the phone. You can either visit INGDirect.ca or call 1-800-464-3473 to open an Investment Savings Account, Tax Free Savings Account, unMortgage or Streetwise Funds account.

Use this Orange Key Referral Code to get your $25 bonus deposited into your account:

16180913S1

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Big fire on Nordel Way at Scott Road destroys apartment building

2010-07-28T10:21:00.000-07:00

Here's some pics from the apartment fire Tuesday July 27, 2010 . 8 people were injured and the wood-frame building is basically destroyed. Delta Victim Services is helping out the affected residents. The fire is thought to have started with an electrical problem in a top floor suite...

Tuesday July 27 at 7:00 a.m.

Wednesday July 28 at 8:00 a.m.

Bus service to Tulalip Casino, Seattle Premium Outlets, Downtown Seattle, SeaTac Airport from Vancouver BC

2010-07-23T09:07:00.000-07:00

With the Canadian dollar close to par with the US buck now, Vancouverites can save a bundle on designer clothes, shoes, housewares and more by making a short trip across the border to the Seattle Premium Outlets in Tulalip Washington (just north of Everett). You can minimize border waits by taking the Quick Shuttle Bus service for approx. $51 return from Vancouver, Richmond or Surrey. Save an extra 5% by booking online!

Quick Shuttle Bus info:
Daily scheduled service from downtown Vancouver, BC to Seattle Premium Outlets, Downtown Seattle and SeaTac Airport. Reservations required, at least 24 hours in advance.

Quick Shuttle is a Seattle, Vancouver Transportation Service. Quick Shuttle provides bus transportation from Seatac Airport, Downtown Seattle, Tulalip (Seattle Premium Outlets), Bellingham Airport to Vancouver Airport, Downtown Vancouver and Cruise Ship Terminals.

Located next door to the Tulalip Casino, Seattle Premium Outlets has 100 outlet stores including Adidas, Aeropostale, Banana Republic, BCBG, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Coach, Eddie Bauer, Fossil, GAP Outlet, Guess Outlet, J. Crew, Jockey, Levi's / Dockers, L'eggs Hanes Bali Playtex, Lucky Brand, NIKE, PacSun, Ralph Lauren, Restoration Hardware and Tommy Hilfiger.

Canadian residents who have been out of Canada for 24-47 hours can claim $50 in purchases at Canada Customs without duty or taxes; more than 48 hours but less than 7 days, $400 ; and 7 days or more, $750 . If the value of the declaration exceeds the personal exemption, you must pay duty and HST on the remaining value.

If you're looking for a hotel in the area, you can book the Tulalip Resort Hotel using Expedia , or check out the deals in Everett, Lynnwood or Seattle or use Priceline.com to bid on a hotel room in the general area. You can also find some great hotel deals in the area using the Entertainment 2010 Vancouver or Seattle Coupon Book.

Seattle Premium Outlets is about 1.5 hours drive south of the border, just north of Marysville. If you're driving, take the 116th street exit from I5 and follow the signs...

If you prefer to avoid border lineups, online retailers that ship to Canada include JC Penney, Lands End, Altrec and Bare Necessities. You can access their websites from here.

JCPenney free US shipping coupon promo code offer and online sale Fall 2010

2010-07-01T15:31:00.000-07:00

Check out the current JCPenney.com free US shipping offer.

If you have a US shipping address (Blaine, Point Roberts Wa, etc.) you can get free shipping on your order using the current coupon promo code. JCPenney has a great online sale on fall and winter jackets, sweaters, swimwear, board shorts, bedding, housewares, Levi's jeans, Docker's and Haggar pants, toys, jewelry and watches and lots more, including online outlet items...

JCPenney also ships to Canada and the UK for a reasonable price. Find out more at http://northdelta.net/canadaspecials.htm

tags: fall and winter 2010, swimwear, swim suits, shorts, september, back to school, december, christmas, coupon promo code, kitchenaid mixers, relic watches, seiko, levis jeans, gifts, docker pants, sale, free shipping, jc penney, uk, canada, canadian, arizona jeans, cuisinart, jackets, lingerie, flexees, shapewear, bali bras, plus size

Surrey BC Entertainment: Get your own Living Room Band, Buy Real Estate

2010-04-01T17:52:00.000-07:00

Surreytheband.com/

Welcome friends, fans and foes! You may have been looking for Surrey, BC, Surrey homes, South Surrey, or maybe some details on a Surrey shooting. Too bad! This is the future home of "Surrey" -- Surrey, BC's premier living room band! Maybe you're looking for the history of Surrey - which we will be happy to document at some later time - especially areas like Sullivan Station, Morgan Creek, Newton, Chimney Hill and Bridgeview. But hey, this site is exclusively about our band -- AND real estate and homes for sale, courtesy of Surrey's premier real estate agent, Lisa MacWilliam (Homelife Benchmark Titus Realty).

More info

tags: surrey, bc, real estate, bands, entertainment, singers, parties, canada

Hypocritical Pig - Great music video by Donnie Gossett

2010-03-25T16:30:00.000-07:00

Hypocritical Pig - Great music video by Donnie Gossett, showing the downfalls and hypocrisy of some high profile televangelists...

tags:kenneth copeland, benny hinn, bennie, hin, jimmy swaggart, televangelist, preachers, katherine kuhlmann, jim bakker, tammie fay, peter popoff

Vancouver 2010 "I Believe" Instrumental Olympic Fanfare

2010-02-28T16:35:00.000-08:00

Awesome instrumental version of the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games Olympic Fanfare. Here's the Nikki Yanofsky version with vocals:

Grouse Mountain Wind Turbine with cast of the NBC Today Show

2010-02-28T09:41:00.000-08:00

Grouse Mountain's The Eye of the Wind is a large wind turbine – so large that you are able to ascend the 20-storey high tower via an elevator contained within its supporting shaft. You exit into a 36-person viewPod atop the tower, suspended directly below the hub of the massive 125-foot (38-metre) long blades. The viewPod is encased in glass, including a segment of the floor. The closest corresponding experience would be flying in the clear Plexiglas nose bubble of a jet helicopter – except this bubble is approximately 30 times larger.

The views from The Eye of the Wind are incredible. All of Vancouver and its busy harbor, the Coastal Mountains (including the twin peaks known as The Lions) and a vast, green wilderness spread out before you.

On a clear day you can see southeast to snow-capped Mount Baker and Mount Rainier and, to the north their sister mountain, Mount Garibaldi. All three are part of the still-volcanic Cascade Range. To the west and the southwest lie Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, the San Juan Islands and the Olympic Mountains.

The view – 360 degrees of it – is spectacular. From here, sunrises and sunsets are more spectacular, as are the mists that seasonally enshroud the city and the silver-gray storms that blow in off the Pacific.

Silver Star Vernon BC Ski Resort Proposed Golf Course and SEWAGE Lagoon

2010-01-26T21:04:00.000-08:00

We take you on a tour of the long-awaited Silver Star Mountain Golf Course......a course like no other, sewage included.

Get more info about what's happening at Silver Star Park: http://www.savesilverstarpark.org/

tags: Silver Star Silver Star Provincial Park vernon bc sewage golf course ski Silver Star Silver Star Mountain Resort Sovereign Lake

Hotel deals in Vancouver, Whistler BC For February 2010 Olympics Events

2010-01-12T07:07:00.000-08:00

Use the travel links to the right for last minute hotel reservations for the Vancouver and Whistler 2010 Olympics events. Get the best deals with Priceline, and Expedia . Top Vancouver hotels include the Fairmont Waterfront, Fairmont Vancouver Airport, Pan Pacific, Sutton Place hotel, Four Seasons, Hyatt Regency, The Westin Bayshore Vancouver, Delta Vancouver Suites Hotel, The Westin Grand Vancouver, and Terminal City Club Tower Hotel.

Whistler hotels include the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Delta Whistler, Crystal Lodge & Suites , Whistler Village Inn And Suite , Summit Lodge And Spa , Whistler Pinnacle Hotel , and Four Seasons Resort Whistler .

More Vancouver travel info at Hotels-vancouver.blogspot.com ...

Merry Christmas 2009 and Happy New Year 2010 !

2009-12-24T07:07:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone!

Check out the after Christmas online shopping deals at Northdelta.net, Buyfinder.com, and Christmas-store.blogspot.com

December 2009 JC Penney free US shipping online coupon promo code and sale

2009-12-12T07:58:00.000-08:00

JCPenney.com Free US Shipping on a $25 online purchase with coupon promo code CR8JOY at checkout until December 18, 2009.

Online Christmas sale prices up to 60% off! Big savings on holiday gift ideas, toys (# ride- on toys # creative play # learning # dolls + plush # webkinz # games # video games # music + electronics # sports + outdoor # radio control vehicles # arts + crafts # collectibles) , jackets, coats, underwear, Ambrielle and Bali bras, panties, lingerie, Flexees and Glamorise shapewear, electronics, video games, Levi's and Arizona jeans, Docker's and Haggar pants, sweaters, shoes, boots, gloves, winter hats and lots more...

Shop online today and save at JCPenney.com ...

Black Friday / Cyber Monday Deals: Sale prices at JC Penney, Macy's, Amazon and more

2009-11-26T06:46:00.000-08:00

Take advantage of incredible Black Friday / US Cyber Monday online sales and free shipping offers at top retailers like JCPenney, Amazon and Macys: get free US shipping deals at Free-shipping-deals.blogspot.com/ , Christmas-store.blogspot.com, Sites.google.com/site/xmasstores/ , or Searchthang.blogspot.com .

For Canadian online deals, check out Northdelta.net/canadaspecials.htm or Canada-shopping.blogspot.com

tags: cyber monday, a.n.a, alfred dunner, bisou bisou, cabin creek, dockers, east5th, haggar pants, lee jeans, liz & co, levi's jeans, liz baker, mixit nicole miller, sag harbor, st. john's bay, units, worthington, chris madden, cuisinart, farberware, lenox, kitchenaid, sale, black friday, thanksgiving day, ciber, syber, christmas, free shipping, canada, uk

Crucial memory discount offer: Canada, USA, UK : Dell, Apple, HP, Acer RAM, DRAM, Flash USB, SoDimm upgrades

2009-11-25T07:09:00.000-08:00

Click to get Get an extra 5% off at Crucial

Make your computer go further. And your money.
A RAM upgrade is an affordable way to boost your PC's performance — and a cost-effective way to extend the life of your system.

A simple RAM upgrade from Crucial can give you what you're looking for, at a fraction of the price of a new system. That means you can enjoy more speed, effortless multitasking, enhanced multimedia experience, and more—all without breaking the bank.
Find your system through the user-friendly Crucial Memory Advisor tool. It can help practically everyone — even if your PC is an older model. In just three clicks, you'll find the system and upgrade options that meet your needs and your budget. And it's simple to install your own memory—and our friendly technical support folks are just a phone call away if you have any questions.

Not sure of the exact model? Or maybe someone else built it for you so it's a no name brand — no problem! Use the The Crucial System Scanner to detect the memory already installed and get recommended upgrades for your computer!

Crucial memory is high-quality, guaranteed compatible, and backed by a limited lifetime warranty. Upgrade your RAM today. It's the solution that makes sense.

More info at Crucial.com USA and Canada. Crucial UK

tags: Acer memory upgrade, imac Apple memory, Asus memory, buy memory, buy ram, card reader, compact flash, compactflash, Compaq memory, computer memory upgrade, computer memory, computer ram, crucial memory, ddr, ddr2, ddr3, Dell memory, desktop memory, dimm, emachines memory, flash card, Gateway memory, how much ram, HP memory, H-P memory, IBM memory, laptop memory, Lenovo memory, Mac memory, memory chips, memory configurator, memory deals, memory module, memory ram, memory selector, Memory Stick, memory upgrade, memory, micron memory, micron ram, micron, motherboard memory, pc memory, pc100, pc133, pc2100, pc2-5300, pc2-6400, pc2700, pc2-8500, pc3-10600, pc3-12800, pc3-14400, pc3-16000, pc3200, pc3-8500, ram prices, ram upgrade, ram, sdram, SecureDigital, Secure Digital, server memory, simm, sodimm, Sony memory, Toshiba memory, USB flash drive, USB

Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 is #1 Bestselling Video Game: US, UK, Canada

2009-11-14T07:54:00.000-08:00

Modern Warfare 2 is a first-person tactical shooter game and the sixth entry in the popular Call of Duty series. True to its name and following the lead of its predecessor, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, it places players in modern combat settings, as opposed to the WW2 settings of the earlier Call of Duty games. This modern approach brings with it new weapons, action and options. Coupled with a variety of game play modes including single player, multiplayer and the co-op Special Ops Mode, it is destined to be one of the most popular games of 2009 and a majjor addition to the Call of Duty videogame series.

More than 4.7 million copies of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 , the sixth installment in the hugely popular Call of Duty game series, were sold on the first day alone, taking in more than $200 million in the US, Canada and Britain combined.

Available in Canada through Amazon.ca , and in the UK through Amazon.co.uk

tags: activision, video games, best price, buy online, most popular video game, callofduty

Electronic Arts Cost Reduction Plan: 1500 layoffs at EA Studios

2009-11-09T13:14:00.000-08:00

Electronic Arts Cost Reduction Plan

In a news release today EA has announced a plan to narrow its product portfolio to provide greater focus on titles with higher margin opportunities.

This action will result in the closure of several facilities and a headcount reduction of approximately 1,500 positions, of which 1,300 are included in a restructuring plan. The majority of these actions will be completed by March 31, 2010. This plan will result in annual cost savings of at least $100 million and restructuring charges of $130 to $150 million.

EA's Game Development Studios:
EA operates its global Headquarters in Redwood Shores, California and with regional headquarters in Geneva Switzerland and Singapore. In addition, EA has worldwide studios in the following locations: BioWare, Edmonton, Canada; Black Box, Vancouver, Canada; Bright Light, Guildford, U.K.; Criterion, Guildford, U.K.; Digital Illusions, Stockholm, Sweden; EA Montréal, Canada; EA Redwood Shores, California; EA Salt Lake, Utah; EAC (Canada), Burnaby, Canada; EALA (Los Angeles), California; Maxis, Emeryville, California; Mythic, Fairfax, Virginia; Pandemic, Los Angeles, California; Phenomic, Frankfurt, Germany; The Sims, Redwood Shores, California; Tiburon, Florida; Hyderabad, India; Bucharest, Romania; Shanghai, China; Seoul, Korea; Singapore; Pandemic, Brisbane Australia; Melbourne, Australia

Bus service to Tulalip Casino and Seattle Premium Outlets from Vancouver BC

2009-11-07T08:54:00.000-08:00

With the Canadian dollar close to par with the US buck now, Vancouverites can save a bundle on designer clothing, shoes, housewares and more by making a short trip across the border to the Seattle Premium Outlets in Tulalip Washington (just north of Everett). You can minimize border waits by taking the Quick Shuttle Bus service for approx. $51 return from Vancouver, Richmond or Surrey. Save an extra 5% by booking online!

Quick Shuttle Bus info:
Daily scheduled service from downtown Vancouver, BC to Seattle Premium Outlets. Reservations required, at least 24 hours in advance.

Quick Shuttle is a Seattle, Vancouver Transportation Service. Quick Shuttle provides bus transportation from Seatac Airport, Downtown Seattle, Tulalip (Seattle Premium Outlets), Bellingham Airport to Vancouver Airport, Downtown Vancouver and Cruise Ship Terminals.

Located next door to the Tulalip Casino, Seattle Premium Outlets has 100 outlet stores including Adidas, Aeropostale, Banana Republic, BCBG, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Coach, Eddie Bauer, Fossil, GAP Outlet, Guess Outlet, J. Crew, Jockey, Levi's / Dockers, L'eggs Hanes Bali Playtex, Lucky Brand, NIKE, PacSun, Ralph Lauren, Restoration Hardware and Tommy Hilfiger.

Canadian residents who have been out of Canada for 24-47 hours can claim $50 in purchases at Canada Customs without duty or taxes; more than 48 hours but less than 7 days, $400 ; and 7 days or more, $750 . If the value of the declaration exceeds the personal exemption, you must pay duty on the remaining value.

If you're looking for a hotel in the area, check out the deals in Everett, Lynnwood or Seattle or use Priceline.com to bid on a hotel room in the general area. You can also find some great hotel deals in the area using the new Entertainment 2010 Vancouver or Seattle Coupon Book.

Seattle Premium Outlets is about 1.5 hours drive south of the border, just north of Marysville. If you're driving, take the 116th street exit from I5 and follow the signs...

If you prefer to avoid border lineups, online retailers that ship to Canada include JC Penney, Lands End, Altrec and Bare Necessities. You can access their websites from here.

Sears Canada Online Outlet Sale Bonus Code at Sears.ca

2009-11-06T10:19:00.000-08:00

This weekend ONLY -- take an ADDITIONAL 30%* off all Sears.ca Outlet items (except for major appliances) when entering bonus code 941 612 950 at checkout. With savings like these, it's a great time to pick up gifts for the holidays.
Shop online at Sears Outlet Canada

*Must enter bonus code at checkout. Total merchandise before taxes and applicable charges. Offer valid for two days, from November 7-November 8 2009. Limit one Bonus Offer Number per order; cannot be combined with any other bonus offer number. Non-negotiable, transferable or redeemable for cash. Excludes major appliances, sewing machines, vacuums and microwaves. Not valid on items ending in .97 cents. Offer valid for items in the sears.ca/outlet only.

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JCPenney free US shipping coupon code offer and online sale Christmas 2010

2009-11-05T07:32:00.000-08:00

Check out http://gjimmy.blogspot.com/ for a current JCPenney.com free US shipping offer.

If you have a US shipping address (Blaine, Point Roberts, etc.) you can get free shipping on your order. JC Penney has a great sale on Christmas gifts, bedding, housewares, Levi jeans, Dockers pants, toys, jewelry and watches and lots more, including online outlet items...

JCPenney also ships to Canada for a reasonable price. Find out more at http://northdelta.net/canadaspecials.htm

tags: gifts, christmas 2010, black friday, cyber monday, back to school, december, coupon promo code, kitchenaid mixers, relic watches, seiko, levis jeans, docker pants, sale, free shipping, jc penney, canada, canadian, arizona jeans, cuisinart, jackets, shorts, swimwear, lingerie, flexees, shapewear, bali bras, plus size

Staples Canada discount coupon for November 2009 Staples.ca

2009-11-04T10:05:00.000-08:00

Here's a Staples Canada (Staples.ca) coupon for ya...

$20 off your phone or online purchase of $150 or more*.
Coupon code : 8240092105006001

Expires November 10, 2009

More Canadian online shopping deals

tags: staples canada coupon promo code online shopping promotion canadian stores buy online discount coupons free shipping

Entertainment 2010 coupon book special offer: Restaurant coupons, travel deals, shopping

2009-11-02T08:02:00.000-08:00

Entertainment 2010 coupon book special offer EXTENDED

Packed with over $24,200 in local savings:

• 426 Dining Discounts
• 252 Attraction Discounts
• 101 Shopping Discounts

• Over $15,000 in Travel Discounts
• Movie Ticket Discounts
• And Much More...

Coupons are valid now through Nov. 1/2010. Books available now for Vancouver BC, Vancouver Island, Okanagan, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Hawaii, Miami, Orlando, New York, Phoenix, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Toronto, Montreal, Winnipeg, Regina, Edmonton, Calgary and more...
Order online and get Free Shipping now!

Enjoy hundreds of half price restaurant deals and discounts on hotels, travel, attractions and retail shopping...

Staples Canada October 2009 $20 coupon code (Staples.ca)

2009-10-20T13:24:00.000-07:00

Not sure if this only works once, but give it a try on a $150 online or phone purchase from Staples.ca :

$20 off
your phone or online purchase of $150 or more*.
Coupon code : 8087892105006000

tags: staples canada coupon promo code oct. 2009 online, phone orders

Vancouver BC is Conde Nast's top destination city for 2009 in the Americas

2009-10-16T21:34:00.000-07:00

Vancouver BC is Conde Nast's top destination for 2009 in North and South America

Why vacation in Vancouver?

Nature everywhere: You can always see the ocean and mountain peaks, whether you're on the Stanley Park Seawall or in the middle of downtown. Ride a bike or walk the seawall on False Creek or English Bay for miles, with a fantastic view!

Seafood satori, from fresh-harvested spot prawns to upscale sushi to the ultimate fish and chips

Alpine playgrounds like Grouse, Cypress, and Seymour Mountains are just a hop, skip, and ski jump away — and Whistler Ski Resort is only 90 minutes by car.

Food: Head to Asia West, the new Chinatown in Richmond, with over 500 Asian restaurants.

Most of Vancouver's sights and hotels are in the central downtown area, which is bounded on three sides by water: False Creek to the south, English Bay to the west, and Burrard Inlet to the north. The Burrard, Granville, and Cambie bridges lead south from Downtown to the residential neighborhoods of South Granville and Kitsilano, where you'll find many of the city's best restaurants. The Lions Gate Bridge is the city's main connection to North Vancouver and to local ski hills like Grouse Mountain, Seymour and Whistler Resort.

Vancouver's climate is milder than you'd expect of a city this far north (30 miles above the U.S. border)—and this makes it nearly a year-round city. It's warmed by Pacific Ocean currents and protected by mountains, and temperatures are always comfortable, ranging from the high 70s in summer to the mid-40s in winter.

Get some great deals on Vancouver hotels at Hotels-vancouver.blogspot.com or name your own hotel price at

Priceline.com

Microsoft's Free Antivirus Software - Download link for Microsoft Security Essentials

2009-10-01T10:38:00.001-07:00

Microsoft Security Essentials is a free download from Microsoft that is simple to install, easy to use, and always kept up to date so you can be assured your PC is protected by the latest technology. It’s easy to tell if your PC is secure — when you’re green, you’re good. It’s that simple.

Microsoft Security Essentials runs quietly and efficiently in the background so that you are free to use your Windows-based PC the way you want—without interruptions or long computer wait times. It also runs quietly in the background scheduling scans when the PC is most likely idle and interrupting the user only when there is an action required to keep their PC secure. It employs practices like active memory swapping and CPU throttling to limit the impact on your PC performance, even on older or less powerful PCs.

This isn’t a security suite product that provides rich PC tuning capabilities or backs up your data. But if what you’re looking for is “install and forget” malware protection and solid quality Microsoft Security Essentials may be just what you’ve been waiting for.

Recent viruses, trojans and worms to be aware of include

* Trojan:Win32/Small.SD
* Trojan:Win32/Gruwt.A
* Worm:Win32/Pushbot.NN
* PWS:Win32/Yahoopass.H
* Spammer:Win32/Tedroo.AA
* TrojanDownloader:ASX/Wimad.CJ
* Worm:Win32/Nuqel.R
* PWS:Win32/OnLineGames.FY
* PWS:Win32/Yahoopass.A
* Worm:Win32/VB.BN

Download Microsoft's Security Essentials software here

Harley Carmen sings "My Father's Birthday " - from Merritt BC, Canada

2009-09-06T16:43:00.000-07:00

What an awesome song! Warning: May bring tears to your eyes...

Check out the cool website at http://Harleycarmen.com/

BC Budget Speech Details - Sept. 2009: Cutbacks, Deficit, Layoffs

2009-09-01T11:18:00.000-07:00

Today's BC budget speech features a huge deficit, cuts to health care spending, pay freezes for civil servants, funding reduction or elimation to the arts, cuts to post secondary student grants and loans and much more...

Revenue from natural gas and other resources is down a billion dollars and revenue from corporate and personal income taxes are also down by a billion.

Get the latest BC Budget details from the government website at www.bcbudget.gov.bc.ca/

BC Budget lies September 1, 2009: Cutbacks, layoffs, tax increases

2009-09-01T06:58:00.000-07:00

A guy dies and goes to the Pearly Gates. He sees St. Peter surrounded by hundreds of thousands of clocks of all sizes, shapes and conditions. He asks St. Peter, "Say, what's with all the clocks?"

St. Peter replies, "Well, these are 'lie' clocks. Everyone has one, and every time a person tells a lie, the hands on the clock move and there's a little wear and tear."

The guy looks up and notices a beautiful, pristine white clock with pearly accents and silver trim. "Whose clock is that?", he asked.

"Why, that's Mother Theresa's clock," St. Peter replied. "She's never told a lie, so the hands never moved and her clock is perfect."

The guy notices another clock, rustic and masculine, made of oak with brass accents, with a little wear. "Whose clock is that?" he asked.

"That is Abraham Lincoln's clock," answered the Saint. "He's only lied twice, so the hands have only moved twice and there's very little wear."

The guy looked all over the place, up and down, back and around, as if searching. Finally he asked the Saint, "So where's Gordon Campbell's clock?"

St. Peter replied, "Oh, Jesus has it in his office. He's using it for a ceiling fan!"

BC Canada budget cuts September 2009 - lowest minimum wage - layoffs

2009-08-31T19:38:00.000-07:00

Move to New Brunswick? Might be a good idea...

VANCOUVER - Protesters hit the front lawn of the BC legislature today to demand a higher minimum wage in B.C. -- effective September 1st, it will be the lowest in Canada.

News1130 took the hot button issue to the streets of Vancouver and most people they spoke with at Cambie Street and Broadway were in favour of a higher minimum wage. "Absolutely, that's ridiculous because we also have the highest cost of living in Canada as well... I would say $10 an hour." However, a few people were against a hike in the wage because it may hurt our province's economic recovery.

B.C. and New Brunswick used to be tied for the lowest minimum wage in Canada at $8 an hour, but as of Tuesday New Brunswick goes to $8.25 and that province has a 34 per cent lower cost of living.

More info at http://news1130.com

Laptop batteries overheating: Find out recall info for HP, Compaq, Acer notebook and laptop models

2009-08-28T08:34:00.000-07:00

An overheated laptop computer left on a couch caused a fire that killed a 56-year-old Vancouver man, the Coroners Service of BC has concluded.

The fire started after the laptop was left on a couch, plugged in and turned on. Because of the lack of ventilation under the laptop, less than an hour later the lithium-ion battery overheated and burst into flames, sparking the fire that eventually killed the man.

The coroner did not release the make of computer involved in the death, but did say several makes of laptops have been recalled in recent years due to problems with lithium-ion batteries overheating and bursting into flames.

Since 2004 in B.C., 4 other laptops have either overheated or short-circuited when left plugged in, causing fires. The death earlier this year, however, was the first in B.C. blamed on a laptop fire, the coroner said in statement.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

HP / Compaq has recalled lithium-ion rechargeable batteries are used with various HP and Compaq notebook computers. Models that can contain a recalled battery include:

HP Pavilion

Compaq Presario

HP Compaq

dv2000
dv2500
dv2700
dv6000
dv6500

dv6700
dv9000
dv9500
dv9700

A900
C700
F700
V3000
V3500

V3700
V6000
V6500
V6700

G6000
G7000

6720s

The notebook model is located at the top of the service label on the bottom of the notebook. Batteries that can be subject to the recall will have one of the following bar code labels (^ in the code can be any letter or number):

62940^^AXV^^^^

65033^^B7U^^^^
65033^^B7V^^^^
65033^^BGU^^^^

65035^^B7U^^^^
65035^^B7V^^^^
65035^^BGU^^^^
65035^^BGV^^^^

67059^^V8U^^^^
67059^^V8V^^^^

Sold at: Computer and electronics stores nationwide, hp.com and hpshopping.com from August 2007 through March 2008 for between $500 and $3000. The battery packs were also sold separately for between $100 and $160.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately remove the recalled battery from their notebook computer and contact HP to determine if their battery is included in the recall and to request a free replacement battery. After removing the recalled battery from their notebook computer, consumers may use the AC adapter to power the computer until a replacement battery arrives. Consumers should only use batteries obtained from HP or an authorized reseller.

For information on Acer's laptop battery overheating recall programs, visit here

Fatal accident in North Delta today - Nordel Way at 116th

2009-08-18T12:38:00.000-07:00

click on images for larger view...

Fatal accident this morning at Nordel and 116th involving 2 dump trucks and an SUV. One truck crossed the center line, jumped the sidewalk, crashed through the concrete fence and ended up in someone’s back yard…

One death, 3 serious injuries. . Nordel and 116th closed for at least 10 hours.

Acer Aspire locks up randomly - updating drivers may fix problem

2009-08-17T11:21:00.000-07:00

I've been having problems with Windows Vista lately on my ACER Aspire desktop computer - random system lockup that requires a power down and reboot. After researching possible causes and using Microsoft's diagnostic memory test (Control Panel - Administrative Tools) I decided to make sure I had all the latest drivers. Acer's support website ( http://www.acer.ca/acer/service.do ) had updated drivers for the NVidia display adapter as well as new audio and LAN drivers. Installing these updates seems to have fixed the problem as well as sped up overall performance of my system.

I suspect the display driver was the cause of the lockups, but in any case it is worthwhile to check that you have the latest drivers if you're experiencing any mysterious crashes or slow performance. With all the Microsoft updates to Vista, a driver that was compatible a year ago may no longer work properly.

Also, for ACER notebook users, Acer America Corporation in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, is voluntarily offering free replacement of certain lithium-ion battery packs containing cells made by Sony Energy Devices Corporation and used in certain Acer notebook computers. As announced previously by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there have been 16 reports of notebook batteries overheating. These reports were associated with earlier recalls by other notebook computer manufacturers of batteries containing these Sony cells. These previous reports involved only minor property damage and two minor burns. None of these reports involved batteries in Acer notebook computers.

We encourage you to check to see if your Acer notebook may have one of these battery packs and, if it does, Acer will replace your battery pack for a new one at no cost to you.

The following Acer notebook computer models sold in the United States and Canada may have battery packs affected by this replacement program:

TravelMate™ Series Beginning with: 242x, 320x, 321x, 330x, 422x, 467x, 561x, C20x.

Aspire™ Series Beginning with: 556x, 560x, 567x, 930x, 941x, and 980x.

The battery packs included in this program were sold in the United States and Canada through authorized distributors as part of the identified TravelMate™ and Aspire™ notebook computers. In addition, these battery packs may have also been provided in response to service calls. The affected battery packs were shipped to distributors beginning in May 2004 and may have been sold at retail through November 2006.

tags: acer aspire t180 desktop, locks up, random crashes, drivers, download , battery overheating, free replacement, warranty

Canada Line Vancouver starts today - Free rides on RAV line

2009-08-17T07:37:00.000-07:00

Get a free ride on the new RAV Canada Line from Richmond to Vancouver from 1 pm to 9 pm today. 100,000 riders are expected to take advantage of this Translink offer today. Bikes are not permitted on the trains today, but cyclists can leave their bikes with a valet service at Broadway-City Hall, Oakridge-41st Street and Marine Drive .

For more info on Canada Line stations and revised bus connections, visit Translink's website
.

Bus connection changes:

South of Fraser Services : Richmond, Delta, Surrey, White Rock

* 311, 351, 352, 354, 601, 602, 603, 604 buses will run more frequently and connect to Canada Line at Bridgeport Station in Richmond instead of travelling to Vancouver.

Vancouver Services

* 3, 10, 15, 17, N15 services will be extended to Marine Drive Station for all trips except the 3, which will serve the station for all trips during weekday peak periods and for every second trip during all other periods.
* 10 service will run more frequently to benefit customers along the Granville corridor.
* 15 will run less often as customers can travel on the Canada Line along the Cambie corridor.
* 17 will no longer serve Marpole Loop.
* 98 B-Line service will be discontinued. Use Canada Line for fastest north-south travel or 10 for local service along Granville.

Airport/Sea Island Services

* Airport Station bus loop will be closed.
* 424 service will be discontinued; use Canada Line to travel to/from the airport.
* N10 NightBus will continue to serve the airport during overnight hours when Canada Line is not operating.
* 100 service will travel west only as far as Marpole Loop. Customers can transfer to Canada Line at Marine Drive Station to travel to the airport.
* 620, C92, C90 services will travel to Bridgeport Station instead of Airport Station.

keywords: vancouver bc, richmond, surrey, delta, white rock, canada line, rav, stations, bikes, stations, bus connections, 301

Vancouver coupon savings for 2010: Hotels, restaurants, shopping

2009-08-12T16:55:00.000-07:00

Order your 2010 Vancouver Entertainment Coupon Book Now

Packed with over $24,200 in local savings:

• 426 Dining Discounts
• 252 Attraction Discounts
• 101 Shopping Discounts

• Over $15,000 in Travel Discounts
• Movie Ticket Discounts
• And Much More...

Coupons are valid now through Nov. 1/2010. Books available now for Vancouver BC, Vancouver Island, Okanagan, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Hawaii, Miami, Orlando, Phoenix, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Toronto, Montreal, Winnipeg, Regina, Edmonton, Calgary and more...
Order online and get Free Shipping now!

Enjoy hundreds of half price restaurant deals and discounts on hotels, travel, attractions and retail shopping...

Milestones Restaurant Nutrition Information - high sodium, fat, carbs

2009-07-28T17:17:00.000-07:00

Looking for a heart attack or stroke in a meal?

Went to Milestones Restaurant for lunch in Burnaby today with the family, and realized later that we each consumed about 5000 mg in sodium (more than double the recommended daily MAXIMUM!). However, the food was very tasty and the service was good.

If you like Milestones, avoid this meal (and a few others):

Shanghai Noodle Vegetable Stirfry. Sounds fairly healthy, but,

Sodium content: 4380 mg

Carbs: 183 gm

Calories: 1160

Good thing it was so hot today we could sweat out some of the sodium.

http://www.milestonesrestaurants.com/assets/files/pdf/nutrition-table.pdf

Funny how they hide that link on their website.

To be fair, most other restaurants are similarly bad nutritionally. It seems that the only option for healthy eating is to make your own meals, or at least order just a salad with a light dressing.

Just wait til the extra 7% BC restaurant tax comes in next year with the "harmonized sales tax".

More incentive to be creative with your home cooking...

The minimum recommended sodium requirement is about 1,500 milligrams (mg) of sodium each day. This is less than 1 teaspoon of table salt. The maximum recommended level of sodium intake is 2,300 mg per day. On average, men consume between 3,100 and 4,700 mg of sodium per day, while women consume between 2,300 and 3,100 mg (due to their lower calorie intake, not because of restricting sodium).

tags: milestones restaurant, coupon, coupons, nutrition, info, sodium, locations, vancouver, burnaby, surrey, nutritional information, discounts, hst bc, harmonized sales tax, ripoff

BC Ferries Summer Coast Saver Mid-week Fares

2009-07-14T07:27:00.000-07:00

BCFerries has extended their reduced midweek fares on sailings between Vancouver and Vancouver Island, until September 3, 2009. On Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays the car and driver one way rate is $39 instead of $54. Passenger fares are $9 instead of $13.50.

You can get some great hotel rates right now for Victoria so book online here:
Victoria Hotel Deals at Hotels.com

Fairmont Empress Hotel Victoria
Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort Hotel

For Vancouver hotel deals, visit Hotels-vancouver.blogspot.com

New Central Valley Greenway bike path: Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster

2009-06-26T15:11:00.000-07:00

A new 24-kilometre walking-cycling path opens today (shared with cars for some of the way) . It links Vancouver, Burnaby and New Westminster. That means if you're up for a long ride it is a new way of rolling into town.

TransLink says the Central Valley Greenway intersects about 20 bike routes and connects with 13 SkyTrain stations (indirectly for some of those stations!).

The total price tag is around $25 million. The grand opening of the Central Valley Greenway is Saturday at noon at the Winston Overpass in Burnaby.
------------------------------
I checked it out today walking from Willingdon to Holdom Skytrain station and was not at all impressed! From behind the Burnaby Costco on Willingdon the path (still under construction) quickly turns into a "bike lane" on Still Creek Ave, followed by confusing signage at Douglas Road. To get to the Holdom Skytrain station from there involves walking along the road, crossing railway tracks, walking on Goring Street (no sidewalks) with lots of trucks. There's an impressive pedestrian overpass at Sperling station, but apparently cyclists/pedestrians still have to share the road along parts of the Still Creek/Burnaby Lake route...

Nice start but could be a heck of a lot better!

tags: bike trails, cycling routes, coquitlam, burnaby, vancouver, bicycle trails, walking paths, cheap commuting

Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort Hotel Review and Deals

2009-06-11T09:11:00.000-07:00

Just stayed at the luxurious Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort Hotel and Spa in Victoria BC. I've stayed at a number of hotels in Victoria over the years but this is by far the best location and value in my opinion for a luxury hotel in the harbour area.

The views are incredible, there is a seawall right in front of the hotel that goes for miles, and the rooms are very quiet, away from the highway. Spinnaker's Brewpub and Downtown Victoria are an easy walk, or you can hop on one of the mini ferries at the hotel that will get you there even faster.

If you click on the picture below you can see the BC Legislature building, The ivy-covered Fairmont Empress to the left, Undersea Gardens, the Royal BC Museum, the Wax Museum, the COHO ferry that goes 3 times a day to Port Angeles, WA and the local harbor ferries that shuttle passengers around Victoria Harbour.

Click for a larger image:
View from our Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort Hotel Room

The Victoria harbour is constantly a beehive of activity that's always entertaining to watch. Seaplanes come and go regularly in front of the Empress, the Coho ferry and Victoria Clipper make regular trips in and out of the harbour, kayakers are everywhere and the mini ferries that cross the harbour to various destinations make it easy to get around without using a car.

I recommend selecting a Signature Club full-harbour view room at the Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort Hotel , which also gives you a deluxe continental breakfast in the Signature Lounge and free appies from 5 to 7 in the evening. The 5-star LURE Restaurant in the hotel also gives you an option for fine dining with an incredible view.

Check room rates at the Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort Hotel

You can get some great hotel rates right now for Victoria so book online here:
Victoria Hotel Deals at Hotels.com

Fairmont Empress Hotel Victoria

BC Ferries Coast Saver Fares to Victoria, Nanaimo - Hotel deals

2009-05-29T12:37:00.000-07:00

BC Ferries is bringing back its discounted coast saver fares. On Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, until September 3, the car and driver fare from the Lower Mainland (Tsawwassen, Horseshoe Bay) to Vancouver Island (Victoria, Nanaimo) will be $39.

Mid-week walk-on ferry fares will be only $9 on these routes:

Victoria (Swartz Bay) to Vancouver (Tsawwassen)
Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Victoria (Swartz Bay)
Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Nanaimo (Duke Point)
Nanaimo (Duke Point) to Vancouver (Tsawwassen)
West Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay)
Nanaimo (Departure Bay) to West Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay)

There's also some great summer hotel rates available too: Vancouver , Victoria , Nanaimo . Book online or call 1-800-780-5733 and mention discount code 71430 for the best rates. Check out the deals at Fairmont Hotels too...

Cross border shopping: Vancouver, Bellingham , Seattle outlets; Bus service

2009-05-29T07:46:00.001-07:00

As of June 1, 2009 Canadians will need a passport, nexus card or enhanced driver's licence plus birth certificate to cross the border into the U.S.

Vancouver area shoppers can save big on certain items by shopping at Bellis Fair in Bellingham or the Seattle Premium Outlets in Tulalip. Outlet stores in Tulalip (just north of Everett, WA) include Adidas, Aeropostale, Banana Republic, BCBG, Calvin Klein, Eddie Bauer, Fossil, GAP, Guess, Jockey, Lucky Brand, NIKE, PacSun, Ralph Lauren, Restoration Hardware and Tommy Hilfiger.

To book your stay online at the luxurious Tulalip Resort Casino Hotel, use the Expedia link on the right for the best rates.

You can minimize border waits by taking the Quick Shuttle Bus service for approx. $51 return from Vancouver, Richmond or Surrey. Save an extra 5% by booking online!

Quick Shuttle Bus info:
Daily scheduled service from downtown Vancouver, BC to Seattle Premium Outlets. Reservations required, at least 24 hours in advance.

Quick Shuttle is a Seattle, Vancouver Transportation Service. Quick Shuttle provides bus transportation from Seatac Airport, Downtown Seattle, Tulalip (Seattle Premium Outlets), Bellingham Airport to Vancouver Airport, Downtown Vancouver and Cruise Ship Terminals.

Canadian residents who have been out of Canada for 24-47 hours can claim $50 in purchases at Canada Customs without duty or taxes; more than 48 hours but less than 7 days, $400 ; and 7 days or more, $750 . If the value of the declaration exceeds the personal exemption, you must pay duty on the remaining value.

If you're looking for a hotel in the area, check out the deals in Everett, Lynnwood or Seattle or use Priceline.com to bid on a hotel room in the general area. You can also find some great hotel deals in the area using the now discounted Entertainment 2010 Vancouver or Seattle Coupon Book. Get more info at Seattle-Deals.blogspot.com

If you prefer to avoid border lineups, online stores that ship to Canada include JC Penney, Lands End, Altrec and Bare Necessities. You can access their websites from here or here.

Vancouver Hotel Deals: Cheap 4 star or 5 star rooms, discounts with Hotwire, Priceline

2009-05-13T10:44:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for the best deal on a 4 or 5 star hotel in Vancouver, or anywhere in Canada or the US, visit Hotels-vancouver.blogspot.com. You can name your own price using Priceline, or specify a neighborhood and star rating with Hotwire to get greatly discounted prices and deals on last minute room purchases. Travelocity and Expedia also have some great hotel and flight specials that you can access from there.

tags: fairmont hotel vancouver, waterfront, hyatt regency, sutton place, deals, cheap, 4-star, 5-star, discount, coupon code, travelosity, travellocity, expedia.ca, holiday inn, westin bayshore, pan pacific

JCPenney free US shipping offer and sale

2009-04-24T08:30:00.000-07:00

Check out http://free-shipping-deals.blogspot.com/ or http://christmas-store.blogspot.com/ for a current JCPenney free US shipping offer.

If you have a US shipping address (Blaine, Point Roberts, etc.) you can get free shipping on your order. JC Penney has a great sale on bedding, housewares, Levi jeans, Dockers pants, jewelry and watches and lots more, including online outlet items...

JCPenney also ships to Canada for a reasonable price. Find out more at http://northdelta.net/canadaspecials.htm

tags: kitchenaid mixers, relic watches, seiko, levis jeans, docker pants, sale, free shipping, jc penney, canada, canadian, arizona jeans, cuisinart, jackets, shorts, swimwear, lingerie, flexees, shapewear, bali bras, plus size

Unwigged and Unplugged Concert in Vancouver tonight

2009-04-17T13:12:00.000-07:00

Harry Shearer, Michael McKean and Christopher Guest talk about their Unwigged and Unplugged Tour, appearing tonight in Vancouver...

How to fix "Invalid Engine Code" error on Lexmark Optra Printers

2009-03-27T13:40:00.000-07:00

An Invalid Engine Code error message may mean that your Lexmark printer has lost the stored operating code for the engine board.

What to do

1. If you have not yet done so, try turning the printer off and then back on. Simply resetting the printer may restore it to a working condition.

2. If this does not clear the error, the code on the printer's engine board will need to be rewritten. You can obtain the engine code file from our website and send the file to the printer without having the printer serviced. Before sending the engine code file to the printer, it is helpful to put the printer into "Flash Engine" mode. Do the following:

1. Turn the printer off.
2. Press and hold the Menu, Select, and Return buttons.
3. While holding these buttons down, turn the printer on.
4. When Performing Self Test appears on the printer, release the buttons. The printer screen should now say Invalid Engine Code.

3.

With the printer in "Flash Engine" mode, you can now copy the engine code file to the printer. The method to use depends on how your computer is connected to the printer. A direct parallel connection to the printer from a computer with DOS on it works best. However, you can also send the files to the printer through a direct USB connection or via an FTP connection across a network. Refer to the appropriate link below for instructions.

How to copy engine code via parallel cable
How to copy engine code via a USB connection
How to copy engine code via an FTP session

If copying the engine code to the printer does not clear the error message, the engine/system board will need to be replaced. This will require service to the printer...

Optra firmware engine code authorization:
# Optra S (4059) series: 4059engn
# Optra T610, Optra T612, Optra T614, Optra T616: optrateng
# Lexmark T520, Lexmark T522, Lexmark T620, and Lexmark T622: lextengn
# Lexmark T630, Lexmark T632, Lexmark T634: e551416
# Lexmark W812: eng204

tags: lexmark, optra, error codes, printer, repair, how to fix, firmware

Allegiant Airlines flights for Canadians: Las Vegas, Palm Springs, Reno, Phoenix, Los Angeles from Bellingham WA

2009-03-19T14:51:00.000-07:00

Allegiant Airlines, a no- frills carrier, flies out of Bellingham, Washington to destinations like Las Vegas, Palm Springs, Oakland, Phoenix, Reno, San Diego and San Francisco.

Allegiant recently announced non-stop jet service to Los Angeles (LAX) from Bellingham International Airport beginning May 2/09. Allegiant is celebrating the new service by offering fares as low as $78* one-way to LAX.

One advantage for Vancouver BC area residents is the much lower taxes involved in flying out of Bellingham. Customers can typically save hundreds of dollars and enjoy non-stop direct flights to warm U.S. destinations all year round.

Parking at Bellingham airport is $9 US per day, and is located right next to the terminal.

Allegiant has a few unexpected fees, like a $14 "segment fee", $18 "PFC fee", $10 "security fee", $10 Priority boarding fee, $11 seat selection fee, $27 "convenience fee", and baggage fees ($30 first bag). There's no free food or beverages on board, but snacks and drinks can be purchased from the flight attendants...

Overall the service is cheap, reliable, convenient, and unlike many US flights out of Vancouver, is non-stop to the sunny tourist destinations: Bellingham to Las Vegas, Phoenix or Palm Springs takes about 2.5 hours.

For more info on deals to Las Vegas and Palm Springs through Travelocity, Expedia, Priceline and Hotwire, visit Vegas-bargains.blogspot.com .

Tulalip Outlet Mall, Casino Hotel - Seattle Shopping and Hotel Deals, Bus service from Vancouver BC

2009-02-10T07:03:00.000-08:00

British Columbia residents can save a bundle on designer clothing, shoes, housewares and more by making a short trip across the border to the Seattle Premium Outlets in Tulalip Washington (just north of Everett).

You can minimize border waits by taking the Quick Shuttle Bus service for approx. $51 return from Vancouver, Richmond or Surrey. Save an extra 5% by booking online!

Quick Shuttle Bus info:
Daily scheduled service from downtown Vancouver, BC to Seattle Premium Outlets. Reservations required, at least 24 hours in advance.

Quick Shuttle is a Seattle, Vancouver Transportation Service. Quick Shuttle provides bus transportation from Seatac Airport, Downtown Seattle, Tulalip (Seattle Premium Outlets), Bellingham Airport to Vancouver Airport, Downtown Vancouver and Cruise Ship Terminals.

Located next door to the Tulalip Casino, Seattle Premium Outlets has 100 outlet stores including Adidas, Aeropostale, Banana Republic, BCBG, Calvin Klein, Eddie Bauer, Fossil, GAP, Guess, Lucky Brand, NIKE, Pac Sun, Ralph Lauren, Restoration Hardware and Tommy Hilfiger.

To book your stay online at the luxurious Tulalip Resort Casino Hotel, use the Expedia link on the right for the best rates.

Canadian residents who have been out of Canada for 24-47 hours can claim $50 in purchases at Canada Customs without duty or taxes; more than 48 hours but less than 7 days, $400 ; and 7 days or more, $750 . If the value of the declaration exceeds the personal exemption, you must pay duty on the remaining value.

If you're looking for a hotel in the area, check out the deals in Everett, Lynnwood or Seattle or use Priceline.com to bid on a hotel room in the general area. You can also find some great hotel deals in the area using the now discounted Entertainment 2010 Vancouver or Seattle Coupon Book. Get more info at Seattle-Deals.blogspot.com

If you prefer to avoid border lineups, online stores that ship to Canada include JC Penney, Lands End, Altrec and Bare Necessities. You can access their websites from here or here.

tags: tulalip, casino, hotel, online, reservations, rates, deals, cross border shopping, specials, outlets, outlet mall, lynnwood, marysville, everett, wa, seattle, hotels, expedia, priceline, travelocity

388 Translink new bus service from Walnut Grove, Langley, Surrey, North Delta, 22nd Street Skytrain

2009-02-02T10:39:00.000-08:00

There's a great new bus route from Translink / Coast Mountain Bus Service that runs from Walnut Grove in Langley along 88th avenue through Surrey, Nordel Way through North Delta, over the Alex Fraser and Queensborough bridges to 22nd Street Skytrain station. It runs every half hour in both directions in the morning and afternoon rush hours, Monday to Friday.

Very few riders have tried the 388 route so far, but it can actually be faster than driving your car, thanks to the special bus lanes that allow it to bypass long bridge lineups. On most days the trip from Scott Road and Nordel to 22nd street station takes only about 15 minutes!

Check out the 388 bus schedule at Translink's website .

keywords: translink, coast mountain bus service, schedule, 388, nordel way, scott road, walnut grove, surrey, langley, alex fraser, bridge, queensborough, new westminster, new, fastest, commuting, alternatives, transit

Pattullo Bridge Fire Damage Sunday January 18: Bridge Closed

2009-01-18T09:20:00.000-08:00

YouTube videos of Pattullo Bridge fire January 18:

A fire on the Pattullo Bridge early today will have it shut down in both directions for at least 4 weeks.

The blaze began around 3am.

The wooden beams under the bridge deck caught on fire and then spread to the actual bridge itself.

Inspector Derren Lench with Surrey RCMP says there were cars on the bridge when the fire broke out.

"Upon arrival they found flames that were coming up onto the south end of the Pattullo Bridge from both sides of the bridge deck. There was traffic found on the bridge, I think there was a bus actually stopped right in the location of the fire and some other vehicles."

Ken Hardie with TransLink says the span will remain closed until structural engineers can do a thorough assessment.

" We have damage assessments such that they don't feel safe letting the bridge open. We're going to take a look at those timbers to see what are our options are."

What started the fire has not yet been determined, however investigators are treating the fire as suspicious.

keywords: Pattullo, patulo, patullo, bridge, fire, arson, closure, video, pictures, photos, youtube, closed, surrey, new westminster bc, videos, news

$13 Free Bonus from ING Direct Canada when you open an account

2009-01-08T06:58:00.000-08:00

ING Direct Canada is offering you a $13 bonus when you open an account online or over the phone. You can either visit INGDirect.ca or call 1-800-464-3473 to open an Investment Savings Account, Tax Free Savings Account, unMortgage or Streetwise Funds account.

Use this Orange Key Referral Code to get your $13 bonus deposited into your account:

16180913S1

keywords: ingdirect, ing direct, bonus, savings, tax free savings account, interest rate, rates, free, $13, referral, canada, bank, best, accounts

Video: Skytrain New Westminster Door Open Problem

2008-12-29T11:54:00.000-08:00

On December 27, 2008 the Skytrain travelling from New Westminster Station to 22nd Street Station had a door malfunction, causing at least 2 doors to be open while travelling between stations. Translink blamed the problem on someone forcing the doors open at New West Station, but also admitted that a technician had disabled the door alarm function while working on the train earlier.

Lesson to be learned: Don't lean against the doors while the train is moving!

Read about another scary Skytrain adventure here .

keyword tags: skytrain, vancouver, new westminster, canada, problem, door, doors, open, opening, december, video, pictures, travel, youtube

CPR 2816 Steam Train trip from Vancouver BC to Mission

2008-10-21T12:23:00.000-07:00

Filmed and produced by Dieter Hecker, Oct. 4, 2008.
CPR 2816 Steam Locomotive on a special return trip from Vancouver to Mission BC.

More Buses Now Campaign: Email Kevin Falcon, BC Transportation Minister

2008-10-21T11:27:00.000-07:00

More Buses Now is a grassroots campaign striving to bring improvements to the Metro Vancouver bus system that will benefit both passengers and riders. The campaign is being sponsored by the members of Canadian Auto Workers local 111 - the bus driver's union.

Are you TIRED of riding overcrowded buses?

Are you ANGRY watching full buses pass you up time after time?

Are you FED UP at the lack of adequate service in your area?

SO IS YOUR BUS DRIVER. And bus drivers are doing something about it – but they need your help.

What’s the problem with our bus system?

Consider the following: currently we have only 1100 buses in service in our entire Metro Vancouver system – that’s not nearly enough! That works out to just one bus for every 1800 Metro Vancouver residents. But 15 years ago, Metro Vancouver had one bus for every 1200 residents. That’s also the current rate of buses in Toronto and Montreal. In other words, we have 50% more residents per bus than we used to, or that Toronto or Montreal have now! No wonder you can’t get on. And it’s not supposed to be that way. Metro Vancouver’s Livable Region Strategic Plan called for 1900 buses to be in service by 2006. And Translink’s own first 5 year Strategic Plan projected 1600 buses in service by 2006. It’s no surprise we have a problem – we are between 500 and 800 buses short.

Visit More Buses Now to email the Transportation Minister now!

Newton / North Delta Federal Election Candidates Oct. 14/08

2008-09-29T11:12:00.000-07:00

Newton--North Delta (British Columbia) General Election (Tuesday, October 14, 2008)
Candidates:

Harjit Daudharia (Communist Party of Canada)
Sukh Dhaliwal (Liberal Party of Canada)
James William Miller-Cousineau (Independent)
Sandeep Pandher (Conservative Party of Canada)
John Shavluk (Independent)
Teresa Townsley (New Democratic Party)
Liz Walker (Green Party of Canada)

When you vote, you MUST prove your identity and address. You have three options:
Option 1:

Provide one original piece of identification issued by a government or government agency containing your photo, name and address (e.g. driver’s licence).

Option 2:

Provide two original pieces of identification authorized by the Chief Electoral Officer of Canada. Both pieces must contain your name, and one must also contain your address (e.g. health card and hydro bill).

Option 3:

Swear an oath and be vouched for by an elector who is on the list of electors in the same polling division and who has an acceptable piece or pieces of identification (e.g. a neighbour, your roommate).

Make sure you get out and vote!

CP Empress 2816 Steam Train Vancouver to Mission BC trip

2008-09-29T10:01:00.000-07:00

On Saturday October 4, the CP Empress 2816 Steam Locomotive will be making a special 4 hour trip from Vancouver to Mission to help raise money to send some special kids to camp. Tickets cost $25 and include lunch. To order tickets, contact 604-873-1865.

Check in at Pacific Central Station at 10:00 am, Train departs 11:00, Returns at 3:00 pm.

Presented by VIA Rail and Canadian Pacific. Proceeds to Easter Seals...

2816 Steam Train in action: Pitt Meadows, Maple Ridge BC

Canadian Do-Not-Call List available Sept. 30

2008-09-29T06:37:00.000-07:00

Canadians will be able to avoid unsolicited telemarketer calls by registering with the national do-not-call list by phone or online starting Sept. 30.

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission warned calls will not stop immediately upon registration, as telemarketers have 31 days to update their calling lists.

Exceptions to the list include calls from charities, political parties, polling companies, newspapers selling subscriptions, and organizations with which the consumer has an existing business relationship.

Those registered with the list will also be able to file a complaint with a yet-to-be-named third-party investigator if they are still receiving calls from an unexempt organization after the 31-day grace period.

Telemarketers found in violation of the list could face fines of up to $1,500 for individuals and up to $15,000 for corporations.

Canadians will be able to add their land line, cell or fax numbers on the national do-not-call list online at www.LNNTE-DNCL.gc.ca or by calling 1-866-580-DNCL (3625). For TTY service only (for the hearing impaired), the toll-free number will be 1-888-DNCL-TTY (1-888-362-5889).

Corporate business blog postings, news, press releases, blogging services

2008-09-19T13:57:00.000-07:00

Visit News-releases.blogspot.com/ to post relevant business press release info, new product information or corporate website information updates for free. By posting to this blog, your important news can be listed in Google and other search engines much faster than by submitting web pages the traditional ways.
Free blog postings for corporate business news releases for a limited time...

Business supplies and travel links can be found at Oncompanybusiness.com

Free seminar on Biorefining and biofuels – Lignol’s developments on the BCIT campus

2008-09-18T10:32:00.000-07:00

Lignol Innovations has recently moved its facilities to BCIT’s Burnaby campus where it has built a pilot scale biorefinery to complete development of its cellulosic ethanol technology. Lignol’s process produces both biofuels and biochemicals from feedstocks such as wood waste and agricultural residues.

This talk will describe Lignol’s process technology, their progress to date and the path to commercialization; it will also explore some of the benefits of biorefineries in reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions and providing a viable alternative to petroleum-based energy and chemicals.

Mr. Michael Rushton is currently Chief Operating Officer of Lignol Innovations Ltd. where he is leading development and commercialization of an innovative biorefining technology for producing cellulosic ethanol.

Date: Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Time: 2:45 – 3:45 PM
Location: BC Institute of Technology Room SW1 - 1205

Lignol is a Canadian company based in BC which is undertaking to construct biorefineries for the production of fuel-grade ethanol and biochemicals from Canadian forests and vast supplies of biomass feedstocks. Lignol has acquired and since modified, a solvent based pre-treatment technology that was originally developed by a subsidiary of General Electric. The pre-treatment technology was previously commercialized in a major pulp mill by Repap with an investment of over $C 100 million.

Lignol acquired the technology, plant operations and related engineering data together with the original GE pilot plant, which is now being integrated in Vancouver, BC with recently acquired process capabilities to convert cellulose to ethanol. Lignol has recently produced ethanol and other bio chemicals from both hardwood and softwood species representative of Canadian forests, and is one of the world's more promising cellulose to ethanol companies.

Download Google's Chrome Web Browser - Features and Review

2008-09-03T10:41:00.000-07:00

Google Chrome Browser (BETA) for Windows
According to Google, Chrome is a browser that combines a minimal design with sophisticated technology to make the web faster, safer, and easier.

Chrome works with Windows Vista or XP
-One box for everything
-Type in the address bar and get suggestions for both search and web pages.
-Thumbnails of your top sites
-Access your favorite pages instantly with lightning speed from any new tab.
-Shortcuts for your apps

You can download the Google Chrome browser here .

Other features include :
* a New Tab page * Application shortcuts * Dynamic tabs * Crash control * Incognito mode (hide your browsing history) * Safe browsing * Instant bookmarks * Importing settings from other browsers * Simpler downloads

Seems to work well so far in our testing....

Entertainment 2009 Coupon Book - Free Shipping

2008-08-11T06:55:00.000-07:00

Get Free Shipping now on the 2009 Entertainment Coupon Book
Coupons are valid now through Nov. 1/2009. Books available now for Vancouver BC, Vancouver Island, Okanagan, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Hawaii, Miami, Orlando, Phoenix, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Toronto, Montreal, Winnipeg, Regina, Edmonton, Calgary and more...
Order online and get Free Shipping now!

Enjoy hundreds of half price restaurant deals and discounts on hotels, travel, attractions and retail shopping...

Problem with YouTube, DailyMotion, MetaCafe, or Flash Video Not Playing or Stops After a Few Seconds in Firefox?

2008-08-10T08:03:00.000-07:00

Problem: When viewing Flash video streaming content in Firefox 2 or 3 on video hosting sites, such as YouTube, MetaCafe, DailyMotion, Vimeo, Veoh, Revver, iFilm, GoFish and others, or on web pages that embed Flash code from these video sharing sites, the streaming video is not playing, or stops playing after 1 to 3 seconds.

Solutions: The easiest temporary fix is to clear your cache in Firefox, then restart the browswer. Having too many Firefox windows open can make the problem more likely to recur.

A better fix is to download the latest Flash player from Adobe, currently Flash version 10 Beta.

JC Penney Free US Shipping Promo Coupon Code

2008-07-26T10:28:00.000-07:00

Free US Shipping on JCPenney Online Orders of $49 til August 9, 2009.

Use the promo code 2EDUC8U at checkout to receive free US shipping on Bali, Jockey underwear, Maidenform lingerie, Rago underwear, Levi jeans, Dockers clothing, shoes, boots, American Living, Waverley and Chris Madden bedding and bath items, Kitchen Aid, Cuisinart, kitchenware, housewares and more...

For current offers and more info at Free-shipping-deals.blogspot.com.

Police Truck Chase in Maple Ridge captured on video

2008-05-26T15:26:00.000-07:00

Televised live this morning from a Global TV newscast. RCMP reopened Lougheed Highway to normal traffic just after 11 am, after this morning's police chase. Police say the man at the centre of a dangerous pursuit in Maple Ridge threatened to blow up a bridge before leading officers on a 30 minute chase.

RCMP Constable Dave Babineau says workers at a nearby farm first called 911 after a naked man showed up and stole a five-ton truck. He says they tried to confront him, but backed off because he was acting erratically.

Minutes later, police caught up with the suspect near Harris Road and Lougheed Highway, which is when he made the threat to blow up a bridge, but didn't name a specific span.

Police then pursued the suspect through the streets of Maple Ridge for nearly forty minutes, as he careened into medians and onto sidewalks, at one point smashing into two police cruisers.

Schwinn Electric Folding Bikes at Canadian Tire

2008-05-08T14:26:00.000-07:00

Here's a cool folding bike with electric assist that can go up to 20km/hr and up to 20 km on single charge, with normal pedaling. Check it out - you can order it online from Canadian Tire here:

Schwinn, iZip and other electric/folding bikes are available in the USA from Amazon.com Bike Store:

Westjet flights to or from Vancouver 50% off today

2008-04-09T11:14:00.000-07:00

50% off Westjet flights. Today only.

- Book by today, April 9, 2008 (23:59:59 MT) for travel from until June 24, 2008. Advertised fares are for travel on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and may be slightly higher on other days of the week.

Westjet Seat Sale
Special fares departing from Abbotsford Calgary Charlottetown Comox Edmonton Fort McMurray Grande Prairie Halifax Hamilton Kelowna Kitchener / Waterloo Kona, Hawaii Las Vegas Los Angeles (LAX) London Moncton Montreal Orlando Ottawa Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic Prince George Quebec City Regina Saskatoon Saint John
St. Johns Thunder Bay Toronto Vancouver Victoria Winnipeg
Book online now at Westjet.com

YouTube HQ Audio tips: Stereo, mp4, 44.1 KHz download and save FLV, MP4 videos

2008-04-06T07:57:00.000-07:00

YouTube has started to create better quality versions of many videos, adding links that say, "Watch this video in higher quality." Adding &fmt=6 to the end of any Youtube video's url will give you Youtube's new high quality setting.

Getting iPod compatible mp4s:
Using &fmt=18 generates an mp4 using h264 with AAC stereo, which is compatible with video iPods. Using fmt=18, you get a video transcoded from the original clip the user uploaded. The bitrate is lower on the mp4 version, but since the resolution is smaller it compensates. The h.264 codec has better looking videos at lower bitrates. We finally get stereo on youtube with the mp4 version. It has a widescreen 16/9 aspect ratio rather than 4/3.

If you want to download HQ videos from YouTube, use the Better YouTube Firefox Extension from LifeHacker.

Embed High Quality Youtube Clips

This code works fine to embed the mp4 version. The query string var is "&ap=%2526fmt%3D18" specifying format 18.

Vancouver BC Translink : Lousy Bus service, Skytrain service

2008-04-03T18:35:00.000-07:00

Where's the improved bus and Skytrain service now that we're paying higher fares???

TransLink reports an $87 million surplus in their 2007 financial report, giving the transit authority an accumulated surplus fund of $408 million. But don't expect any break in fares anytime soon.

Dale Parker, Chair of the TransLink board of directors, says the excess money is already alloted for the future. "We have to avoid thinking about this as a 'surplus,'" because that fund is already spoken for, either in terms of sustaining the expansion TransLink has put in place or starting the next round of transit service and road improvements to meet demands over the coming years.

TransLink says additional revenue outweighed the rising cost of operating transit last year. The report shows $301 million has been added to the surplus fund since 2005. TransLink says they'll be drawing on their surplus fund (currently at $408 million) beginning in 2009.

Translink says revenue increased as more riders bought two and three zone passes, because of the high cost of gas. Additional revenue was also generated by parking related taxes bringing in $5 million more than budgeted for.

Burnaby mayor Derek Corrigan says TransLink has a bad habit of charging more tax than necessary. "That happens over and over again, I mean they've had surpluses in the past you'll remember because they got a windfall in the rise in property assessments."

Corrigan also says if some of the surplus was due to undelivered service , that's not really a saving because the public was inconvienced.

FIDO Overcharging on Fido to Fido Service? Ripoff alert

2008-04-03T15:15:00.000-07:00

After receiving a couple of huge FIDO cell phone bills recently, I phoned customer service to inquire about some calls that were listed on the statements. I have the cheap 50 minutes + free Fido-to-Fido (F2F) plan. Apparently I was charged an extra $170 for calls to other local Fido users that should have been free.

After spending 30 minutes on the phone to FIDO Customer Service going over each call that should have been free, I was told that YES, they do have a technical problem with overcharging for Fido to Fido calls, and YES they are working to find a solution, and NO you will not automatically get a refund unless you phone them up and basically do what I did, and go through each phone number that you were billed for to find out if they were a FIDO customer.

Anybody else run into a similar problem? Or have you even noticed that you're being overcharged?

You can file a complaint with the CRTC HERE ,

but it doesn't look like they'll be very helpful, as they suggest discussing problems with your provider first. Maybe a class action lawsuit would be the best thing to resolve FIDO's service problems...

Comments?

How to make Paneer: Indian cheese you can easily make at home

2008-04-03T10:20:00.000-07:00

Paneer is an Indian cheese which is used in many recipes for appetizers, main courses and desserts. It does not melt when heated. Paneer is very easy to make at home. Try this easy to follow recipe. Using whole milk, paneer contains about 20 - 25% fat. (To make a low fat version, try using 2% milk). Unlike most cheeses, paneer is also low sodium, unless you add salt when making it...

Here's another instructional video on how to make Paneer (but use lemon or lime juice instead of vinegar!):

American online stores that ship to Canada

2008-03-28T14:46:00.000-07:00

With the Canadian dollar close to par with the US dollar, many Canadians are heading south of the border to shop, often facing 2-4 hour lineups at border crossings.

To avoid this hassle, why not order online and have your merchandise shipped right to your house? Online retailers that ship to Canada include JC Penney, Lands End, Altrec and Bare Necessities. You can access their websites from here or here.

BC Ferries Coast Saver Fares: Save up to 40% on ferry fare: Tsawwassen, Duke Point, Victoria

2008-03-24T08:34:00.000-07:00

BC Ferries has discounted fares substantially on a number of sailings between Vancouver and Vancouver Island.

Here's the scoop from the BC Ferries website:

"Introducing CoastSaver Sailings from BC Ferries. Huge savings on selected sailings between Vancouver and Victoria or Nanaimo, for all passengers and vehicles.

Arrive early to ensure space on these sailings or make a reservation. The CoastSaver Sailings offer is only available for scheduled CoastSaver sailings. The Coast Saver Sailing fare will only be applied at the time of ticket purchase."

Coast Saver Sailings are currently scheduled for travel between Vancouver, Victoria and Nanaimo on select sailings until April 30/2008.

Victoria (Swartz Bay) to Vancouver (Tsawwassen)
Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Victoria (Swartz Bay)
Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Nanaimo (Duke Point)
Nanaimo (Duke Point) to Vancouver (Tsawwassen)
West Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay)
Nanaimo (Departure Bay) to West Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay)

Coast Saver Sailings Fares : Savings of up to 40% on passenger and vehicle fares. Check it out here .

There's also some great off-season hotel rates available too: Vancouver , Victoria , Nanaimo . Book online or call 1-800-780-5733 and mention discount code 71430 for the best rates. Check out the deals at Fairmont Hotels too...

Amazon Canada DVD Sale: Get Free Shipping and Save up to 30%

2008-03-21T08:25:00.000-07:00

Top Selling DVDs at Amazon Canada
Get Free Shipping on a $39 purchase and save up to 30% on best selling DVD titles. This week's top sellers and discount prices are:
1. Battlestar Galactica: Season Three
CDN$ 44.99
2. Stargate: The Ark of Truth DVD ~ Ben Browder
CDN$ 19.99
3. Planet Earth: The Complete Series on DVD
CDN$ 64.99
4. Enchanted (Widescreen)
CDN$ 22.99
5. Atonement (Widescreen)
CDN$ 22.99
6. Jeff Dunham: Spark of Insanity DVD ~ Jeff Dunham
CDN$ 12.99
7. Dexter - The First Season DVD ~ Michael C. Hall
CDN$ 29.99
8. 101 Dalmatians DVD ~ Clyde Geronimi
CDN$ 22.99
9. I Am Legend [Blu-ray]
CDN$ 29.95
10. I Am Legend (2-Disc Special Edition)
CDN$ 27.99
Prices subject to change...
Shop online now at Amazon Canada

Westjet seat sale: Half price flights today only. To and from Vancouver BC

2008-03-13T07:48:00.000-07:00

50% off Westjet flights. Today only.

- Book by today, March 13, 2008 (23:59:59 MT) for travel from April 1 until June 25, 2008. Advertised fares are for travel on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays and may be slightly higher on other days of the week.

For example, One-way flights starting from:

- Vancouver to Las Vegas $104
- Vancouver to Maui $199
- Vancouver to Honolulu $184

New blogs to check out

2008-03-08T08:55:00.000-08:00

Here's some new blogs that may be of interest to some of you:
Seattle-deals.blogspot.com: Seattle shopping and travel deals
Edmonton-hotels.blogspot.com: Edmonton travel: hotels, flights
Searchthang.blogspot.com: Search products, travel deals
Natural-news.blogspot.com: Natural supplements, health info

If you have a related blog that you would like to exchange links for, leave a comment...

Staples Canada March Coupon: Save $20 off $200

2008-03-04T15:47:00.000-08:00

Get $20 OFF $200 or more with online code 7644381061416021 at Staples.ca

For Staples USA, click here.

Shop online at Staples

Folding bikes: Dahon, Schwinn, electric bikes ...

2008-03-03T13:50:00.000-08:00

I've had a folding bike for a few years now, and it's a great way to get around in spring or summer. If you get a 20" aluminum frame model, they only weigh around 25 lbs., so they're easy to carry around, throw in the trunk of your car, or carry on public transit or in your boat! Check out this cool video of a Dahon folding bike:

Best place to buy a folding bike online is Amazon.com , or in Canada: folding bikes on eBay Canada or Canadian Tire .

Turmeric is a wonder spice: May prevent heart disease, cancer, alzheimers and more

2008-02-22T11:47:00.000-08:00

Curcumin from Turmeric Extract
The spice found in most Indian curry dishes might also help prevent the ravages of heart failure, a new Canadian animal study has concluded.

Researchers at Toronto's University Health Network found that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, both prevents and dramatically reverses enlargement of the heart in mice.

According to Dr. Weil, Turmeric is useful for all inflammatory disorders and for autoimmune conditions. It also may have a role in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease. (Elderly villagers in India appear to have the lowest rate of Alzheimer's in the world, perhaps due to the fact that Indians eat turmeric with almost every meal. Some animal studies have shown that curcumin blocked the formation and accumulation of the plaque that characterizes Alzheimer's.)

Overall, turmeric appears to have significant anti-inflammatory and cancer-protective effects. These seem most evident at doses well below pharmaceutical strength, which suggests that it would be wise to consume more foods spiced with turmeric.

Vitamin World has a New Customer Exclusive - Free US Shipping on orders $50 or more
Enter Code: NEW2VW at checkout. Web orders only. Expires: 2.29.08

Nutritional supplements are also available online from:

Westjet Seat Sale: Half price flights from Vancouver today

2008-02-20T08:08:00.000-08:00

50% off Westjet flights. Today only.

- Book by February 20, 2008 at 11:59 p.m. M.S.T.*
- Travel from April 1 until May 31, 2008, or end of season.
- Travel on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

For example, One-way flights starting from:

- Vancouver to Palm Springs $119
- Vancouver to Maui $199
- Vancouver to Honolulu $184

Westjet Seat Sale
Special fares departing from Abbotsford Calgary Charlottetown Deer Lake Comox Edmonton Fort McMurray Grande Prairie Halifax Hamilton Kelowna Kitchener / Waterloo
London Moncton Montreal Ottawa Prince George Quebec City Regina Saskatoon Saint John
St. John's Thunder Bay Toronto Vancouver Victoria Winnipeg
Book online now at Westjet.com

Video Game "The Bigs" Developed locally by BlueCastleGames for 2K Sports

2008-02-19T14:21:00.000-08:00

Blue Castle Games is the recent winner of an award for best new videogame company at the ELAN awards in Vancouver:

For more information on Blue Castle Games visit their new website here: .
For more info about THE BIGS game, click below:

THE BIGS is available for Playstation 3, Playstation 2, Nintendo Wii, Xbox 360 and Sony PSP...

Delta, Surrey BC Gateway Project Insanity: Complain to your MLA!

2008-02-11T19:42:00.000-08:00

Both Environment Canada and Health Canada have issued reports that are critical of the Gateway Project that includes the twinning of the Port Mann Bridge and creation of a perimeter road through parts of Burns Bog in Delta BC. The federal reports say the provincial government has not shown any evidence that freeway expansion will solve traffic congestion.

Independent transport economist Stephen Rees says one of the obvious mistakes made by the province is not making a train line to the Valley a priority. "If you want to see transit oriented development, you have to have the transit first. Not as an afterthought or a promise, or a possibly 'we'll get around to it when there's enough people', which is what we're hearing from the province."

Rees says the cost benefit analysis done by the province would not be acceptable as a term paper from a first year student, let alone justify the expenditure of billions of dollars of public funds.

Health Canada says the province has released artificially low air quality impact estimates. In its report of a Gateway Project study on air pollution, Health Canada says "the misdirected focus of this assessment is inappropriate and may be misleading to the general reader."

Rees says the BC government now needs to rethink this Gateway proposal, "And work towards a truly sustainable regional transportation and land use plan with municipal and regional governments. This requires putting transit first."

For more information, visit LivableRegion.ca or GatewaySucks.org or Stephen Rees's Blog.

Skytrain Virtual High Speed Ride: Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, Vancouver

2008-01-31T19:14:00.000-08:00

Take a high-speed ride on the SkyTrain. The trip traces a loop through Vancouver & Burnaby, New Westminster, beginning at Vancouver Community College on Clark and ending in downtown Vancouver at Waterfront Station. Video by Jeff Birmingham, on YouTube.

Westjet Flight sale: Deals from Vancouver

2008-01-22T11:25:00.000-08:00

Save on sunny Westjet destinations from Vancouver when you book online by January 24:

Fort Lauderdale $221
Fort Myers $233
Honolulu $179
Las Vegas $119
Los Angeles (LAX) $161
Maui $219
Orlando $215
Palm Springs $134
Phoenix $155
Tampa $215
West Palm Beach $221

Book by January 24 (23:59:59 MT) for travel until May 17, 2008. Advertised fares are for travel on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and may be slightly higher on other days of the week. Taxes, fees and surcharges are extra where applicable. Seats at these fares are limited and may not be available on all flights. Flights may not operate on certain days. New bookings only. All fares shown are one-way. Sale discount is applied to WestJet's lowest regular fares. Fares shown already reflect the sale discount.

Today's View of the North Shore Mountains, North Vancouver BC

2008-01-21T15:33:00.000-08:00

North Shore Mountains as seen from Burnaby BC January 21/08
Click for larger photo...
Vancouver Hotels, Flights, Travel Deals

Active Home Professional from X10 - Home Automation, Security

2008-01-17T14:02:00.000-08:00

ActiveHome Professional from X10.com. X10 software and interface, combined with your PC, equals easy and affordable home automation.

Use ActiveHome Pro home automation system as basic home security - ActiveHome Pro can automatically adjust scheduled timers to turn on lights for a random number of minutes when you're not at home, giving your home that "lived-in" look.
It's easy to track home automation routines – ActiveHome Pro software lets you sort by rooms, so you can easily see what's scheduled to happen, and when.
Home automation software is easy to expand with plug-ins, so you can have the completely customized system you need.

Call anytime 888-570-4964 and mention promotion code 1472567 for special X10 deals.

Check out more X10 info and deals here

Free US Shipping from JCPenney.com

2008-01-11T11:23:00.000-08:00

Free U.S. Shipping and Sale til Jan. 15/2008 at JCPenney Online

JCPenney Online SALE and Free U. S. Shipping on $99

Until January 15/08, get Free U.S. Shipping on orders of $99 when you shop online at JCPenney.com .
Use discount code WK50FS99 at checkout to receive free USA shipping on jackets, sweaters, lingerie, bedding, bath towels, kitchen ware, housewares and more.

JCPenney carries top brands like a.n.a, alfred dunner, bisou bisou, cabin creek, dockers, east5th, lee jeans, liz & co, levi's jeans, liz baker, mixit nicole miller, sag harbor, st. john's bay, units, worthington, chris madden, cuisinart, farberware, lenox, kitchenaid and more.

X10 Security Cameras - Cheap Wireless Home Security

2008-01-10T14:26:00.000-08:00

Call anytime 888-570-4964 and mention promotion code 1472567 for special X10 deals.

I've got a few X10 cameras around home for security monitoring and they work great. I use a low-light black and white camera for night monitoring and a VCR with a 10 hour recording time that I cycle as needed. The color cameras work well during the day and the video signal can even be captured into your PC and monitored over the internet with their Active Home Professional kit.

More X10 info and deals here

Entertainment 2008 coupon book $10 off and Free Shipping

2008-01-09T13:04:00.000-08:00

Entertainment 2008 coupon book now $10 off with Free Shipping - Vancouver, toronto, montreal, calgary, edmonton, winnipeg, ottawa and more. Discounts on restaurants, shopping, groceries, travel and more.

Check it out

Westjet flight sale: Save 40%. Vancouver to Hawaii and more

2008-01-09T10:41:00.000-08:00

Westjet flights 40% off. Book by January 9 (23:59:59 MT) for travel until April 30, 2008.
Canadian and U.S. travel. Book online today .
For Canadian destinations, advertised fares are for travel on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and may be slightly higher on other days of the week. For U.S. and International destinations, travel day restrictions do not apply. Taxes, fees and surcharges are extra where applicable. Advertised fares are for travel on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and may be slightly higher on other days of the week. All fares shown are one-way.

Book today to get 40% off Travel with
Westjet in Canada. Fares are limited.

- No advance purchase required
- Subject to availability
- New Bookings only
- Applicable taxes, fees and surcharges are extra
- Flight may not operate on certain days
- Fares only available on selected days.

Book today for 40% off flights until April 30, 2008. Fares are limited, and are only available for travel on selected days.

Choose from any of these great departure cities:

Abbotsford Calgary Charlottetown Deer Lake Comox Edmonton Fort McMurray Grande Prairie Halifax Hamilton Kelowna Kitchener / Waterloo London Moncton Montréal Ottawa Prince George Regina Saskatoon Saint John St. John's Thunder Bay Toronto Vancouver Victoria Winnipeg

International destinations include Maui, Honolulu Hawaii, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Orlando, Palm Beach and Tampa Florida.

Earn one AIR MILES® reward mile for every $20 you spend when you or your travel agent book a flight online at westjet.com. Reward miles are awarded on the total fare excluding all taxes and Airport Improvement Fees. AIR MILES benefits are only available for Canadian residents at this time.

More info...

Starchoice Satellite: Crap! Avoid it! Lousy Service from Star Choice

2007-12-27T21:46:00.000-08:00

I've had Star Choice Satellite TV for the last year and have never had so much down time on TV service with any provider. Snow, bad weather, mysterious circumstances, it doesn't take much for the satellite signal to disappear for hours on end.

Take my advice, stay away from Star Choice (aka Shaw Cable TV) and stick with your regular cable provider - they can't possibly be as bad as Shaw (StarChoice). Last time I called Star Choice when the service went down, I was told the wait time for Tech Support was in excess of 53 minutes. Never did get through to them, but I cancelled the Star Choice service the next day!

JC Penney Free Shipping and After Christmas Sale

2007-12-26T08:33:00.000-08:00

Get Free U.S. Shipping from JCPenney Online

Free US Shipping on bedding, housewares, kitchen ware purchases of $99, plus savings up to 50% when you shop online at JCPenney.com until Jan. 7/08.

Save on comforters, bedspreads, quilts, coverlets, duvets, down comforters, bed in a bag, bedding accents, blankets, throws, pillows, pads, mattresses, sheets, kids bedding, teens bedding, bath towels and more.

JCPenney carries top brands like a.n.a, alfred dunner, bisou bisou, cabin creek, dockers, east5th, lee jeans, liz & co, levi's jeans, liz baker, mixit nicole miller, sag harbor, st. johns bay, units, worthington, chris madden, cuisinart, farberware, lenox, kitchenaid and more.

Merry Christmas

2007-12-25T23:19:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas 2007!

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