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Checkpoint…The fall home improvement projects that should be on your list.

MERRILLVILLE, IN…

For the many people who live in a climate with four seasons, fall can mean any number of things. Football. Foliage. Frost. And the one “f” homeowners dread most, fixing up your home in preparation for winter. DirectBuy, the home improvement and furnishings club with direct insider prices, has some suggestions for the top of your to-do list this fall.

“From a home improvement standpoint, fall projects really are about getting ready for winter, namely making your home more energy efficient and thereby cost-effective,” said Sara Butler of DirectBuy. “Ideally, you would replace furnaces, windows and other higher ticket items but that’s not always realistic. There are some things you can do in the interim to improve efficiency.”

For starters:

Furnace – Test your heating system now before you actually need to turn the heat on in the house. If there’s a problem, get your furnace serviced now before it gets cold and other people have the same idea. Be sure to replace the filter on your furnace prior to turning on the heat in the fall. Filters come in a number of different makes—30, 60, and 90-day, as well as ones you don’t replace but occasionally clean. It’s important to know which type you have in your home if you’re considering changing these yourself.

Weather stripping – You’ll find weather stripping around most doors and windows. The elements can do a number on weather stripping over time and you’ll want to do a quick inspection in the fall to determine if any stripping needs to be replaced before the cold weather hits. Your local hardware store should carry replacement stripping that you can use to replace any deteriorating sections.

Winterize your hose bib – The hose bib is the part of the outdoor faucet where you attach the hose. If you do not turn off the outdoor water source from the inside of your home, you run the risk of the pipe leading to the hose bib freezing and bursting—even if it’s only been for a few days of sub-freezing temperatures. So, be sure to turn that water source off before the frost begins.

Painting – Fall is also a great time to paint, both indoors and out. As long as it’s not too cold or, obviously, raining, paint goes on and dries better in the fall. If you’re painting the outside of your house, paint actually has a sealant quality. So, in addition to giving your exterior a fresh look, you’re also preparing it for elements associated with winter.

“The beauty of most fall projects is that, for the most part, they are not huge undertakings but the benefits can be plentiful. The key is planning and prioritizing what’s important to your home and your household,” said Butler. “By simply creating a small checklist of projects you want to do this fall, you can still make a difference in your home without overwhelming yourself.”.

DirectBuy offers everything you need for your fall fix-up projects—windows, water heaters, insulations, ladders, you name it—at wholesale prices direct from the manufacturers and their authorized suppliers. In addition, DirectBuy also employs product specialists and designers, so if a fall fix-up project is a bit aboveyour skill level or you don’t have the time, you have professionals at your service who can get the job done and help get your home ready for the winter months.

For more information on a DirectBuy membership, you can visit http://www.directbuycares.com.

About DirectBuy

For more than 38 years, DirectBuy has been showing thousands of consumers unparalleled ways to save as they shop for virtually everything for in and around their homes – from furnishings, home improvement and flooring, to entertainment and outdoor products, accessories and much, much more. With more than 160 locations in North America, DirectBuy offers its members access to approximately 700 brand-name manufacturers and their authorized suppliers in the US, and more than 500 brand-name manufacturers and authorized suppliers in Canada.

Anyone can refer friends and family to DirectBuy and earn big rewards in the process. Visit refer.directbuy.com today for all the details.

Checkpoint…The fall home improvement projects that should be on your list.Read More

Ottawa resident wins $25,000 home makeover from DirectBuy of Ottawa

GLOUCESTER, ON…

DirectBuy of Ottawa, the home improvement and furnishings club with direct insider prices, recently delivered a $25,000 check to Ottawa resident Deborah Logue as part of the company’s national Home Makeover Program. Logue was presented with the check on September 19 at the Gloucester area club.

“When I received the letter in the mail notifying me that I was DirectBuy’s $25,000 Grand Prize Home Makeover winner, I didn’t think it was real,” said Logue. “It wasn’t until I called the DirectBuy corporate headquarters that I realized I had truly won.”

Excited about her newfound fortune, Logue didn’t waist any time figuring out how she would spend it all. In fact, Logue replaced her living room carpet with brand new hardwood flooring before she even received her grand prize check.

“The actual ceremony and check presentation was weeks away and I couldn’t wait to start making improvements to my home and life,” said Logue.

This fall, Logue also plans on replacing her kitchen flooring with granite tile. She is looking forward to the arrival of family to help with the project.

Even though her home improvement projects are first and foremost, Logue is also planning a vacation in the island country of Cuba.

Regis and Lise Girard, who own the Ottawa location, were excited that their club was able to help someone from their community.

“We are so happy that our club was one of the lucky ones to have a Home Makeover winner,” said Lise Girard, co-owner of DirectBuy of Ottawa. “It was a great experience for our staff, members and visitors. We will never forget Deborah and we wish her the best with her new home improvement projects.”

Over the past few years, DirectBuy has distributed more than a half million dollars in prize money to both members and non-members as part of their Home Makeover Program, designed to help consumers create the home of their dreams.

DirectBuy of Ottawa, located at 1392 Cyrville Road in Gloucester, offers consumers thousands of items, including kitchen cabinets, flat-screen televisions and major appliances from more than 500 top manufacturers and their authorized suppliers. Members enjoy a comfortable, welcoming setting where they finally have the financial control of buying direct.

To assist members with their home renovation projects, DirectBuy of Ottawa employs interior designers and product specialists who are specially trained in one of five areas of merchandise: Home Furnishings, Home Improvement, Flooring, Entertainment/Outdoor, and Accessories. Additionally, members benefit from the use of a children’s play area, café and a member’s lounge to relax while shopping.

DirectBuy Membership

Consumers who are interested in joining DirectBuy of Ottawa are encouraged to attend an exclusive Open House event, which is designed to educate families about DirectBuy’s unique business model.  The Open House also helps consumers better understand how DirectBuy members avoid traditional retail markup when purchasing brand-name merchandise. 

To request a “Free Insider’s Guide to Buying Direct” and a Visitor’s Pass to learn more about the superior value and benefits of a DirectBuy membership, visit www.directbuy.com.

About DirectBuy

For 38 years, DirectBuy has been showing hundreds of thousands of consumers unparalleled ways to save as they shop for virtually everything for in and around their homes – from furnishings, home improvement and flooring, to entertainment and outdoor products, accessories and much, much more. With more than 160 locations in North America, DirectBuy offers its members access to approximately 700 brand-name manufacturers and their authorized suppliers in the US, and more than 500 brand-name manufacturers and authorized suppliers in Canada.

Consumers interested in seeing DirectBuy’s savings, service and selection up close may obtain a Visitor’s Pass to attend an Open House by visiting www.directbuycares.com.

Ottawa resident wins $25,000 home makeover from DirectBuy of OttawaRead More

Relationship Expert Encourages Single Seniors to Take Advantage of Technology and Practice New Dating Etiquette

As Unmarried and Single Americans Week (September 20-26th) is upon us, it is important to remember that a significant number of singles today are seniors.

According to U.S. Census Bureau News (July, 2009), there are 15.8 million single Americans who are 65 or older. These older Americans account for 16 percent of all unmarried and single people age 18 and older. Many of these seniors have found themselves single again after a divorce or the death of a significant other. Although many single seniors don’t wish to remain single, it can be hard to get back on the horse again after so many years out of the dating scene.

According to relationship expert Paul A. Falzone, CEO of The Right One and Together Dating, “Dating isn’t just for the young. It’s for the young at heart. Age doesn’t matter.”

As the CEO of one of the world’s largest brick-and-mortar dating services, Falzone has paired thousands of clients during more than 35 years in business. A large number of these singles were people over the age of 55 looking for friendship and love.

“When you’re a single senior, you’re looking for many of the same things that singles of any age are looking for – someone to spend time with who shares your interests and who has those qualities that you find attractive,” explained Falzone.

Take Advantage of Technology

Falzone encourages single seniors to learn more about and take advantage of technology. A traditional brick and mortar dating service that uses high-tech matchmaking software to match members in conjunction with matchmaker consultation services is ideal for single seniors. This type of “high touch” matchmaking service, such as The Right One or Together Dating’s, will help you get back out into the dating scene. Even if you don’t think you’re ready to look for love just yet and are more interested in making new friends, this type of dating service can be instrumental in introducing you to others who share your interests and who are also looking for friendship.

Many seniors are already knowledgeable about social networking sites such as Facebook and use it to correspond with their children and grandchildren. For those who aren’t familiar with it, Facebook is a great way to communicate with family members but you can also use it to get back in touch with folks you probably haven’t seen in a while such as former colleagues or high school and college classmates.

Have a hobby? Then there’s probably a “Meetup Group” for it. From quilting, photography and sports to dining out and more, you may find others with similar interests online at Meetup.com.

New Dating Etiquette

For single seniors who haven’t dated in a long time, perhaps even decades, Falzone advises of the new dating etiquette:

· Meet in a public place by your own transportation. Play it safe until you get to know the person.

· Men and women now split the bill. Don’t commit the faux pas of expecting one person to pay for everything. Both parties should offer to pay their share and be prepared to do so. Be sure to have cash on hand in case plastic isn’t on the menu.

· Don’t air your “dirty laundry”. Problems with your ex or your adult children? Conflicts with families or former partners are a natural part of life, yet there’s no need to share the burden early on.

· Dating is about BOTH people. Dating is and always will be two-way, with plenty of listening and communication. You should work around both of your schedules and interests when arranging a date and deciding where to go. One person doesn’t get to call all the shots.

· Guard your personal information and your assets. Know that there are many people who are quick to take advantage of the loneliness of seniors. Be aware that not everyone you meet may be a person of substance, ethically and morally.

· Be safe. Tell a friend or someone else close to you, where and with whom you are going on your date. If you can’t reach anyone, call your own voicemail and leave a detailed message and any contact info you have about your date.

Falzone continued, “Something that hasn’t changed is courtesy. Courtesy transcends the generations. Confirm your date, be on time and conclude it comfortably. If you want to see each other again, great, but if not, that’s okay too. Go on your date with no expectations, and be sure to end it on a polite note. Most importantly – be yourself and be honest and sincere.”

Help is on the way
Catering to more than 300,000 members at more than 60 locations throughout North America, The Right One and Together Dating are the largest brick and mortar dating services in the industry, offering a more consistent product, a greater number of potentially compatible mates and added value of flexibility in transferring memberships to another geographic region.

Romantic Locations

North American locations and affiliates of Together are located in: Indiana (Ft. Wayne, Carmel); Kentucky (Louisville); Louisiana (Metairie); Maryland (Columbia, Frederick); Minnesota (Edina); Nevada (Reno); New Hampshire (Hooksett, Nashua, Portsmouth and Salem); Ohio (Cincinnati); South Carolina (Greenville); Texas (San Antonio and Austin) and Virginia (Falls Church); Pennsylvania (Harrisburg).

The Right One’s offices and affiliates located throughout the United States include: California (San Diego); Colorado (Glendale); Georgia (Atlanta); Illinois (Downers Grove, Rockford, Normal, Schaumburg and Chicago); Massachusetts (Norwell, Newton Center, Shrewsbury and Woburn); Michigan (Bingham Farms); Nebraska (Omaha and Lincoln); New Jersey (Cherry Hill); New York (NYC); Nevada (Las Vegas); Pennsylvania (Harrisburg, King of Prussia); Rhode Island (Warwick); Texas (Dallas); Utah (Salt Lake City); and Wisconsin (Madison, Appleton, Elm Grove).

Singles Station Dating Company, an affiliate of The Right One and Together Dating, is the largest independently owned personal introduction service in the Southwest. In the last 25 years, Singles Station has introduced more than 100,000 couples and is responsible for thousands of successful relationships and marriages. Singles Station Dating Co. has offices in Oklahoma (Oklahoma City and Tulsa), Arkansas (Bentonville, Fort Smith and Little Rock), Tennessee (Memphis and Nashville), Missouri (Springfield and St. Louis) and will be opening soon in Kansas (Wichita and Kansas City). For more information about Singles Station, please visit www.singlesstation.com or call 866-807-LOVE(5683).

For more information about Together Dating and The Right One, please visit their websites at www.togetherdating.com and www.therightone.com, or call (800) 818-DATE (3283).

Relationship Expert Encourages Single Seniors to Take Advantage of Technology and Practice New Dating EtiquetteRead More

Silent gesture speaks volumes. DirectBuy of Buffalo donates auction items for Owl Family Picnic Chinese Auction.

CHEEKTOWAGA, NEW YORK…

DirectBuy of Buffalo, the leading home improvement and furnishings club with direct insider prices, recently donated $800 worth of furniture to the Chinese Auction held during the 21st Annual Owl Family Picnic at the George F. Lamm VFW Post in Williamsville on August 23.

Proceeds from the Chinese Auction went to several area non-profits, most notably Camp Good Days and Special Times, Mercy Flight of Western New York, Former Troopers Helping Hands and the St. Adalbert’s Center.

“We’re happy to donate those items to efforts like the Chinese Auction at the Owl Family Picnic because of the phenomenal work the charities involved do, particularly with sick children. said Mark Klinger, owner of DirectBuy of Buffalo. “It’s an absolute privilege to take part in this event each year.”

The charities benefitting from the Chinese Auction include:

  • Camp Good Days and Special Times – a non-profit dedicated to improving the quality of life for children, adults and families whose lives have been touched by cancer and other life challenges.
  • Mercy Flight of Western New York – an independent, not-for-profit provider of emergency air medical transport.
  • Former Troopers Helping Hands – an organization dedicated to fulfilling the wishes of all children and young adults with life-threatening illnesses and their families.
  • St. Adalbert’s Center – dedicated to helping poverty-stricken individuals and families. They empower people to take responsibility for their lives and encourage self-sufficiency through dignity and compassion.

DirectBuy clubs across Canada and the United States are active contributors to many local non-profits and charities, including the Boys & Girls Clubs, Salvation Army, YMCA, Homes for Our Troops, and various Children’s Hospitals. Locally, DirectBuy of Buffalo sponsored a Habitat for Humanity effort on Guilford Street in Buffalo and regularly donates to charitable efforts like The Ride for Roswell Park Cancer Institute, the Buffalo Humane Society, and Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure.

Since 1971, DirectBuy has helped consumers enjoy enormous savings on home furnishings, home improvement items, entertainment and outdoor products, and accessories, by providing an avenue to purchase directly from the manufacturer. Conveniently located at 4950 Genesee Street in Cheektowaga, New York, DirectBuy offers members a comfortable setting, where they finally have the financial control of buying direct.

For more information on a DirectBuy membership, you can call 716-684-1400 or visit www.directbuy-buffalo.com.

About DirectBuy

Since 1971, DirectBuy has helped hundreds of thousands of families enjoy a better quality of life, enabling them to buy directly from more than 700 manufacturers and their authorized suppliers. Buying direct makes members’ hard-earned money to go much further, while having the selection and choice not available at any retail store. DirectBuy has been serving the greater Buffalo area since 2005. Access to confidential prices, local suppliers, and unparalleled selection helps make members’ dream projects a reality.   DirectBuy of Buffalo is one of more than 160 DirectBuy locations throughout North America.

Consumers interested in becoming members may obtain a Visitor’s Pass to attend an Open House by contacting DirectBuy at 716-684-1400, or visiting www.DirectBuy-Buffalo.com. 

To learn more about the superior value and benefits of a DirectBuy membership, visit www.directbuycares.com.

Silent gesture speaks volumes. DirectBuy of Buffalo donates auction items for Owl Family Picnic Chinese Auction.Read More

Tips for Creating Your Dream Space: Back to the drawing board and other extras for your kitchen remodel

Remodeling your kitchen is one of the more expensive home improvement projects you can undertake. It’s also a project that recoups more of its cost at resale than most others. And with a few extra touches–like a chalkboard area, exhaust fan and sliding kitchen cabinet doors — your investment in a kitchen remodel can dramatically improve your quality of life while you’re in your home and put more in your pocket at resale.

Back to the drawing board

The kitchen has become the hub of activity and an information center for many households. But rather than forcing a dry erase board into an existing spot once you’ve remodeled your kitchen, why not make it part of the plan from the get-go.

For example, many new kitchen remodels include wall space painted with chalkboard paint. This gives families a great space to keep important lists and dates and is very easy to maintain since chalkboard paint is easily cleaned with an eraser or damp cloth. You also don’t have to concern yourself with fitting in a drab white dry erase board. And, last but not least, your little ones will finally have a place to draw their favorite pictures without causing permanent marks.

Exhausting your new kitchen’s possibilities

Adding an exhaust fan to your kitchen is another nice touch to a kitchen remodel. Exhaust fans not only help eliminate obnoxious smells from your kitchen; they can be a beautiful design accent as well. 

Besides being functional, exhaust systems are available in different materials such as wood or stainless steel, which can coordinate nicely with your cabinetry or countertops. So in addition to getting rid of unwanted smells from last night’s seafood dish or the peas you accidentally burned, you further accentuate the beauty of your remodel.

Letting your kitchen cabinets slide

When it comes to remodeling your kitchen, especially the cabinets, it’s easy to get hung up on looks. But you also want your new cabinets to be functional. To that end, sliding cabinet doors are a functional and attractive alternative.

Sliding kitchen cabinet doors work in a similar fashion to sliding patio doors—on a grooved run–only on a smaller scale. So, if you’re sick of bumping your head or other body parts after somebody left a cabinet door open, it’s an option with great functionality.

In terms of looks, kitchen cabinetry with sliding door fronts tend to work best in contemporary, modern, or Asian-inspired designs. While available in a number of attractive wood styles, sliding cabinets are also offered with clear glass doors. This gives you not only a stylish design, but an opportunity to display your dinnerware or barware.

With or without these extras, remodeling your kitchen is a major renovation that can dramatically improve the quality of your day-to-day life. Take your time, get several opinions and don’t forget those little extras that can elevate a good remodel to a great one.

Sara Shragal is a staff writer for DirectBuy. For more information or other helpful tips for your home, or to submit a question, please visit www.directbuycares.com or write us at questions@directbuycares.com.

Tips for Creating Your Dream Space: Back to the drawing board and other extras for your kitchen remodelRead More

Area resident wins $50,000 grand prize from DirectBuy. Kelly Clarkson, of Moore, Oklahoma, plans to use winnings to purchase first home.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK…

Just when Kelly Clarkson thought her life was caving in around her, she got a second chance to change everything.

That second chance was a letter from DirectBuy, the second such notification sent by the company, notifying Clarkson that she was the winner of the DirectBuy’s $50,000 Home Makeover promotion. And, thankfully, she called DirectBuy’s corporate headquarters just in time to claim her winnings.

“When I received the first letter, I thought someone was playing a trick on me and completely disregarded it, but I’m so glad they sent a second notice and I called,” said Clarkson.

DirectBuy, the home improvement and furnishings club with direct insider prices, named Kelly Clarkson of Moore, Oklahoma as their 2nd national Home Makeover winner this year. Over the past few years, DirectBuy has distributed more than a half million dollars in prize money to both members and non-members as part of their Home Makeover Program, designed to help consumers learn more about DirectBuy, and in the process, help them create the home of their dreams.

On September 10, 2009, Clarkson visited the company’s Oklahoma City location for the formal check presentation. 

Weeks prior, Clarkson was summoned to court in a foreclosure dispute on the home she is currently renting. Clarkson, who is disabled, and hasn’t worked for more than two years, didn’t have the finances to purchase the home from the bank and was preparing for a move this year.

But, with a little luck and a second chance, the Clarkson family can now make their current residence a permanent home.

“Just as quickly as things turned for the worst in my life, they just as easily made a turn for the better,” said Clarkson. “I truly feel so blessed!”

Clarkson’s children, 15-year-old Tyler and eight-year-old Samaya, are looking forward to the comfort of knowing they will be staying in their current home and school. And three-year-old Yzabella is thrilled that her mom can now afford to buy her the pink PowerWheels jeep she’s been wanting.

DirectBuy of Oklahoma City franchise owners Brandon and Adriana Parker were excited that their club was able to help someone from their community.

“Having a chance to present a family with a check for $50,000 is one of the most exciting events I have ever participated in,” said Adriana. “There couldn’t have been a more deserving family than the Clarksons, and I am truly happy that DirectBuy could help turn their luck for the better.”

DirectBuy of Oklahoma City, located at 8330 Glade Avenue, offers consumers thousands of items, including kitchen cabinets, flat-screen televisions and major appliances from more than 700 top manufacturers and their authorized suppliers. Members enjoy a comfortable, welcoming setting and design club where they finally have the financial control of buying direct.

To assist members with their home renovation projects, DirectBuy of Oklahoma City employs interior designers and product specialists who are specially trained in one of five areas of merchandise: Home Furnishings, Home Improvement, Flooring, Entertainment/Outdoor, and Accessories. Additionally, members benefit from the use of a children’s play area, café and a member’s lounge to relax while shopping.

DirectBuy Membership

Consumers who are interested in joining DirectBuy of Oklahoma City are encouraged to attend an exclusive Open House event, which is designed to educate families about DirectBuy’s unique business model.  The Open House also helps consumers better understand how DirectBuy members avoid traditional retail markup when purchasing brand-name merchandise. 

To request a “Free Insider’s Guide to Buying Direct” and a Visitor’s Pass to learn more about the superior value and benefits of a DirectBuy membership, visit www.directbuy.com.

About DirectBuy

For 38 years, DirectBuy has been showing hundreds of thousands of consumers unparalleled ways to save as they shop for virtually everything for in and around their homes – from furnishings, home improvement and flooring, to entertainment and outdoor products, accessories and much, much more. With more than 160 locations in North America, DirectBuy offers its members access to approximately 700 brand-name manufacturers and their authorized suppliers in the US, and more than 500 brand-name manufacturers and authorized suppliers in Canada.

Consumers interested in seeing DirectBuy’s savings, service and selection up close may obtain a Visitor’s Pass to attend an Open House by visiting www.directbuycares.com.

Area resident wins $50,000 grand prize from DirectBuy. Kelly Clarkson, of Moore, Oklahoma, plans to use winnings to purchase first home.Read More

A “chalkboard” and exhaust fan can enhance your kitchen remodel.

CHICAGO, GURNEE, HOFFMAN ESTATES, NAPERVILLE, TINLEY PARK, IL …

Remodeling your kitchen is one of the more expensive home improvement projects you can undertake. It’s also a project that recoups more of its cost at resale than most others. According to DirectBuy of Greater Chicago, there are some extra touches you can give your kitchen remodel to further maximize the value of your new kitchen.

For example, many new kitchen remodels include wall space painted with chalkboard paint. This gives families a great space to keep important lists, and dates, especially since chalkboard paint is easily cleaned with an eraser or damp cloth. 

“The kitchen has become the hub of activity and an information center for the household. So, rather than force a dry erase board into a spot, creating an area from the get-go is a far more convenient approach,” said Dave Kushner, owner of DirectBuy of Hoffman Estates. “In addition to being a message board for the family, it can also be the wall area where it is finally okay for little Jimmy to draw his favorite pictures.

Adding an exhaust fan to your kitchen is another nice touch to a kitchen remodel. Exhaust fans not only help eliminate obnoxious smells from your kitchen; they can be a beautiful design accent as well. 

“Most exhaust systems are available in different materials such as wood or stainless steel which can coordinate nicely with your cabinetry or countertops,” added Kushner. “So in addition to getting rid of unwanted smells from last night’s seafood dish or the peas you accidentally burned, you further accentuate the beauty of your remodel.”

DirectBuy carries everything you need for a kitchen remodel at prices direct from the manufacturers and their authorized suppliers. In addition, each DirectBuy club employs product specialists and designers who can help members create the kitchen that works best for their home.

For more than 38 years, DirectBuy clubs have offered members the opportunity to enjoy enormous savings on home furnishings, home improvement items, entertainment and outdoor products and accessories by purchasing from over 700 brand-name manufacturers and authorized suppliers. With several convenient locations in the greater Chicago area (Chicago, Gurnee, Hoffman Estates, Naperville, and Tinley Park), consumers can enjoy a comfortable, country-club setting, where they finally have the financial control of buying direct.

For more information on a DirectBuy membership, you can visit http://www.directbuychicago.com/.

About DirectBuy

Since 1971, DirectBuy has helped hundreds of thousands of families enjoy a better quality of life, enabling them to buy directly from more than 700 manufacturers and their authorized suppliers. Buying direct makes members’ hard-earned money to go much further, while having the selection and choice not available at any retail store. Access to confidential prices, local suppliers, and unparalleled selection helps make members’ dream projects a reality. The DirectBuy clubs serving the greater Chicago area are part of more than 160 locations throughout North America.

Consumers interested in becoming members may obtain a Visitor’s Pass to attend an Open House by visiting http://www.directbuychicago.com/. 

Locations of the DirectBuy clubs serving the greater Chicago area are: DirectBuy of Hoffman Estates, 2200 N. Stonington Ave Ste. 150 Hoffman Estates, IL; DirectBuy of Chicago North, 6325 Avondale, Chicago, IL; DirectBuy of DuPage County, 1864 Highgrove Ste. 136 Naperville, IL; DirectBuy of Lake County, 3900 Washington Street, Unit K, Gurnee, IL; and DirectBuy of Tinley Park, 18400 S. 76th Avenue Ste. B, Tinley Park, IL.

To learn more about the superior value and benefits of a DirectBuy membership, visit www.directbuycares.com.

A “chalkboard” and exhaust fan can enhance your kitchen remodel.Read More

Becky Dentinger named DirectBuy of Buffalo’s August “Do-Gooder” of the month.

CHEEKTOWAGA, NEW YORK…

DirectBuy of Buffalo, the leading home improvement and furnishings club with direct insider prices, established the “Do-Gooder of the Month” award to recognize employees, vendors and even members going above and beyond the call of duty—either on the job or in their everyday lives. August’s winner is Becky Dentinger, a service specialist, for the quantity and quality of member testimonials received last month.

As a service specialist, Dentinger works closely with DirectBuy members in helping them make their selections. Utilizing her construction experience and education—she’s currently studying interior design at Villa Maria College—she’s able to find members the products they need at direct insider prices.

“It’s a worn out cliché but for Becky it’s absolutely true. She goes above and beyond the call of duty for our members and it shows in the number of favorable comments we get specifically citing her service. The fact that she does it while balancing a full course load at college makes it even more impressive. Becky is a very worthy recipient of our Do-Gooder of the Month award,” said Mark Klinger, owner of DirectBuy of Buffalo.

As the Do-Gooder of the Month, beyond the recognition, Dentinger will receive a restaurant gift certificate.

“One of the things I love about working here is I learn so much, both from my fellow staff members and customers. I guess I don’t really see it as going above and beyond the call because I do learn so much on the job,” said Dentinger.

Previously working in construction, Dentinger began with DirectBuy of Buffalo in 2008. Originally hailing from Alexander, she currently resides in Attica.

Since 1971, DirectBuy has helped consumers enjoy enormous savings on home furnishings, home improvement items, entertainment and outdoor products, and accessories, by providing an avenue to purchase directly from the manufacturer. Conveniently located at 4950 Genesee Street in Cheektowaga, New York, DirectBuy offers members a comfortable, country-club setting, where they finally have the financial control of buying direct.

For more information on a DirectBuy membership, you can call 716-684-1400 or visit

www.directbuy-buffalo.com.

About DirectBuy

Since 1971, DirectBuy has helped hundreds of thousands of families enjoy a better quality of life, enabling them to buy directly from more than 700 manufacturers and their authorized suppliers. Buying direct makes members’ hard-earned money go much further, while having the selection and choice not available at any retail store. DirectBuy has been serving the greater Buffalo area since 2005. Access to confidential prices, local suppliers, and unparalleled selection helps make members’ dream projects a reality.  DirectBuy of Buffalo is one of more than 160 DirectBuy locations throughout North America.

Consumers interested in becoming members may obtain a Visitor’s Pass to attend an Open House by contacting DirectBuy at 716-684-1400, or visiting www.DirectBuy-Buffalo.com. 

To learn more about the superior value and benefits of a DirectBuy membership, visit www.directbuycares.com.

Becky Dentinger named DirectBuy of Buffalo’s August “Do-Gooder” of the month.Read More

Resort Maps to sponsor “road trip” for two Plymouth grannies.

PLYMOUTH, MASSACHUSETTS AND WAITSFIELD, VERMONT…

Beth Sobiloff and Virginia Just never saw themselves as “traditional” grandmothers spending their reclining years, well, reclining. To prove that point and to achieve a lifelong dream of traveling the U.S., the two small business owners have literally decided to take their show (lives and businesses) on the road in a cross country journey to begin in March 2010.

Resort Maps, creator of more than 90 customized travel maps across the United States, England and Puerto Rico, has signed on as one of the first sponsors of the “Two Grannies on the Road” trip.

“At Resort Maps we believe that every trip is about the journey, not just the destination. Two Grannies on the Road epitomizes that philosophy and takes it one step further as Beth and Ginny will also be running their businesses while they see the country—and that’s something we want to support,” said Peter Hans, president of Resort Maps Franchise.

Just, a 62 year-old grandmother of two boys and freelance graphic designer and Sobiloff, a 59-year-old grandmother of two girls and Web designer/search engine optimization specialist, plan to start their journey in March 2010, traveling in an RV down the coast and across the country to California over a two-month period. During that time, the two grannies will continue to run their businesses. Part of that will be stopping off at local chambers of commerce and Business Networking International (BNI) for meetings along the way.

“Both Ginny and I have been huge networkers, particularly with BNI. So, we’re looking forward to attending networking meetings on our trip and meeting other small business owners, including Resort Maps franchise owners in the cities and towns we travel through,” said Sobiloff. It will also be a big help to have the maps provided by Resort Maps in navigating our trip.

Resort Maps franchises operate in cities and towns in 20 states, including: California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Vermont—as well as towns and cities in England and Puerto Rico.

“Many Resort Maps franchise owners bought into the business because they didn’t want to be confined to the 12 months a year, 9-to-5 grind. Much like the Two Grannies, our franchise owners want to run their businesses on their own terms. Again, that’s what makes Resort Maps’ sponsorship with the Two Grannies a perfect match,” added Hans.

To find out more about the Two Grannies on the Road, including the progress of preparation for this great journey, please visit their blog at www.twogranniesontheroad.com. Businesses looking to sponsor the Two Grannies can contact Beth Sobiloff or Virginia Just by calling 617-851-6337.

For more information on Resort Maps or to inquire about ownership of a Resort Maps franchise, please visit www.resortmaps.com or call 802-496-6277.

About Resort Maps

Headquartered in the Green Mountains of Vermont, Resort Maps has been creating and publishing advertising maps in the northeastern U.S. since 1986. In 1993, Resort Maps expanded its reach by creating a franchise model for distribution of its colorful, hand-drawn maps of resort towns and cities. Today, that network of franchises grown to nearly 90 Resort Maps in publication in the US and the UK, with several more in the process of being published. Nearly 20 million Resort Maps will be printed and distributed in 2009.

For more information on Resort Maps the company and/or the franchise opportunity, visit www.resortmaps.com or call 802-496-6277.

Resort Maps franchises serve cities and towns in California (Carmel, Monterey), Colorado (Boulder, Breckenridge, Cherry Creek, Colorado Springs, Denver, Eagle River, Estes Park, Fort Collins, Summit County), Delaware (Bethany Beach, Rehoboth Beach), Florida (Clearwater Beach and Gulf Beaches, Cocoa Beach, Daytona Beach, Melbourne, New Smyrna Beach, St. Augustine, Tarpon Springs), Georgia (Savannah/Tybee Island), Maine (Bar Harbor/Acadia, Boothbay region, Camden-Rockland, Kennebunkport, Kittery, Portland, York-Ogunquit), , Maryland (Annapolis, Eastern Shore, Ocean City, Solomons Island, St. Mary’s County), Massachusetts (Berkshires, Chatham-Orleans, Falmouth, Hyannis-Yarmouth, Martha’s Vineyard, Newburyport, Plymouth, Sturbridge, Worcester), Michigan (Traverse City), New Hampshire (Franconia/Notch Region, Hampton Beach, Hanover/Lebanon , Keene, Lakes Region, Mount Washington Valley, Portsmouth), New Jersey (Barnegat Bay, Cape May, Hoboken/Jersey City, Hunterdon, Lambertville , Long Beach Island, Ocean Grove, Point Pleasant, Princeton, Sandy Hook), New York ( The Hamptons, Lake George , Lake Placid, Saratoga Springs), North Carolina (Asheville, Brunswick County, Hendersonville , Outer Banks, Salisbury and Rowan County, Sandhills, Wilmington,), Pennsylvania (Bucks County, Chestnut Hill, Delaware River Valley, Gettysburg, The Main Line), Rhode Island (Newport, Providence), South Carolina (Charleston, Hilton Head, Myrtle Beach), Tennessee (Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge), and Vermont (Addison County/Brandon, Barre/Montpelier, Burlington, Killington/Rutland, Mad River Valley, Manchester, Mount Snow, Okemo, Smugglers’ Notch, Stowe, Waterbury/Richmond, Woodstock/Quechee) —as well as towns and cities in England (Chicester, Lewes) and Puerto Rico (Vieques, Culebra).

Resort Maps to sponsor “road trip” for two Plymouth grannies.Read More