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Just so you know! |
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Drop David a note if you read this. He would like to hear from you. Any comments, suggestions, additions, critiques or questions would also be appreciated. Email David at: spears.duluth@juno.com Just
so you know! May 8, 2008 Images/pictures of the 'NCC Trader Pin Shop' can be seen on the National Council of 56 Clubs web site: http://www.ncc56. Village North Collectors Club meeting - CJ's of Cloquet - Wednesday, May 21st, 6 P.M. Cece (the boss) always has some deals, and nice goodies, for us. Linda and I will try to get to Cloquet early to allow us to eat at Mexico Lindo. 'Homies' set #10 is 'sort of' available the Superior (WI) Super Walmart (in the game room 'bubble gum' machines). It 'says' set #10, but it is not the same ten that they show on their web site. As a matter of fact, it has some pretty 'old' Homies, and a couple I don't remember seeing before. I'm guessing a little over half are part of the current set. I did get the new peg leg pirate. Thanks to our friend Jerry for reporting his sighting. Most of our local Village North Club met Ginny at the Green Bay Gathering. She was one of the friendly hosts (and ran around taking pictures). She is selling the following Dept 56 New England Village: Craggy Cove Lighthouse, Timber Knoll Log Cabin, Old North Church, Cherry Lane Shops set of 3, Ada's Bed and Boarding House, Berkshire House, Jannes Mullet Amish Farm House, Jannes Mullet Amish Barn, Shingle Creek House, Captain's Cottage, Sleepy Hollow-set of 3, Sleepy Hollow Church, McGrebe-Cutters & Sleighs, Bluebird Seed & Bulb, Yankee Jud Bell Casting, Stoney Brook Town Hall, Blue Star Ice Co., A. Beiler Farm-set of 2, Arlington Falls Church, Cape Keag Fish Cannery, Pigeonhead Lighthouse, Brewster Bay Cottages-set of 2, and the Emily Louise. - You can contact Ginny at: gneu@charter.net Just
so you know! April 24, 2008 It's official, our Dept 56 'Architectural Antiques' has more accessories and people than any other house we have. Of course it does come with sixteen 'small parts' and the 'Architectural Treasurers' accessory but still - we have added the Lemax 'The Chaise' (man and lady carrying a chaise lounge chair); 'Chair Repair' (man fixing chair); and 'Antiques' (chair, mirror, lamp, sign); 'Bargain Hunting' (lady looking at dress rack). We also display a bird bath, chair and clock we found and 'Next Time, Have Delivered,' (a man carrying a painting) from St. Nicholas Square. More additions: various 'tiny' vases and baskets and even some lawn ornaments. Looking at the list I guess we have more of an estate or yard sale (instead of an 'Architectural Antiques' sale! Folks do notice it - that is a good thing! Make a replacement 'box' for your houses. I'll write more about that next time. Found at Pier One in Duluth, MN: Oriental tea sets, Sushi sets, place settings, salt/pepper shakers, coasters ($10 set of 4), small bowls, napkin rings, chop sticks. The one we purchased for $6 is a small tea pot. Linda says we can turn it into a small pagoda in our Chinatown. Who am I to argue? Looking for something different for your Halloween display? Lemax has added a 'spooky' western town. Here are some/most of the people accessories I saw offered: 'Quick-Draw,' 'Yer In My Sights,' ' Gunfighters,' 'Spooky Gunfight,' 'Zombie Showdown,' 'Brothel Women,' 'Greedy To The End,' 'Claim Jumped,' 'Rub-A-Dub-Cowboy,' and 'Death on A Pale Horse.' Costs are $2.00 to $5.00 each. The people are mostly skeletons with a couple of Zombies thrown in. There is also three (?) houses in this new collection. I found this information on the House of Tam web site. Oh yes, there is also couple of 'fun' signs that we might look at (even though we do very little Halloween). Remember the National Council of 56 Clubs Convention in the Twin Cities, June 26-29, 2008! Just
so you know!April 23, 2008 4 Gift Sets: All are $79.00 each and each has an included accessory. Dickens: 'Barton's Holiday Greens' with accessory 'Delivering the Holiday Greens' (a horse and sleigh) North Pole: 'Brite Lites Bulb Factory' with lighted accessory 'All In A Tangle' (elf with lights) Snow Village: 'Lyndale Tree Lot' with accessory 'Just the Right Tree' (kids with wagon and tree) Christmas In the City: ' Miller & Sons Hardware & Garden Center' with accessory 'Picking the Perfect Tree' (2 pcs - people) Other regular releases: Dickens: Limited to 9,000 'Victoria & Albert Museum' $125.00 (looks large). Coordinating accessory 'An Artist at Work' $20.00.'West Lott Chapel' $85.00. Coordinating accessory 'Hallelujah' ( 2 choir boys) $15.00.'Bucklebury Cottage' $85.00. Coordinating accessory 'Heading Home From the Market' $17.50. North Pole: Limited to 9,000 'Robbie's Robot Factory' $100. Coordinating accessory 'Time For a Tune- up $18.50. 'The Reindeer Stables, Dasher & Dancer' $85.00. Coordinating accessories 'Dasher' and 'Dancer' $20.00 EACH (could be the beginning of a series?) 'Hatly Hall' $85.00 (elf dormitory). Coordinating accessory 'Polar Pizza, Never Cold' $18.50. Snow Village: Limited to 8,000 'The Angel House' and Lit Angel $100. Coordinating accessory 'An Angelic Scene' $17.50. 'Noah's Stuffed Animals' $85.00 (cute with 1/2 Noah's Arc sticking out). Coordinating accessory 'It's A Tough Choice' $22.50. 'Nokomis House' $85. Coordinating accessory 'A Letter to Santa' $15.00. Christmas in the City: Limited to 6,000 'St. Mary's Church' $100. Coordinating accessory "Praise In Perfect Harmony' (singing nuns) $20. Halloween: 'Screech Owl Farm' (very nice) $110. Coordinating accessory 'An Ax to Grind' $22.50. 'Halloween 10th Anniversary Sign' $20. Snowbabies: lots and lots Nothing on New England or Alpine. Just so you know! April 2, 2008 We received another shipment of Department 56 this
week and it is all opened. We are still going through renovations, but all of
the product is easily accessible. Please just ask and we can help customers
find anything they need. Thanks. Just
so you know! April 1, 2008 PETCO has some items that could have some display use. One was a 'big' castle that is small in scale - maybe 12 or 15 inches wide and a foot high - $49.99. Next is a 'medium' size, still small in scale - about 8 to 10 inches. They also have a 'small' castle, better in scale for our use - 8 inches or smaller - $22.99. Add some very small castles for $7.99. Too small for most displays, but who knows. . . . . I also like the 'Capt Kidd Pirate Ship' for $24.99. A bit small for any pirates we have, but I like it anyway. . . . . One more item I noticed was the 'Red Wall.' Kind of a an Oriental look, real/good size for displays. - $9.99. This one we might just buy. - All of these items are designed for underwater use in fish tanks. Bev and Rochelle from the Lemax group on Yahoo sent me to the following web site:http://www.mcphee.com/items/11737.html (look under action figures). I found several groups that sure look like fun to me. 'Paparazzi Play Set' is just great! It features nine 2 1/2" to 4" tall photographers (in all sorts of positions). There just has to be a use for those - $15.95 a set. I also took a look at 'Glow-in-the-Dark Flesh Eating Zombies Play Set,' 'Office Monkeys Play Set,' and 'Horrified B-Movie Victims.' I have no idea about quality but I'll bet I buy a least one set (just to see). Linda and I stopped by CJ's of Cloquet (MN) this evening. They had to open five boxes of newly received Dept 56, but they found the new 'Tea Time' accessory for us. It is very nicely done. We were 'checked out' with our purchase by our friend Alex. We also met Cece's new grandchild - looked like a pretty doll to me. Several folks have offered sources for the popcorn scented candles we were looking for. The first is 'Dark Carnival' from Dark Candles – It is described as follows: This scent will evoke images of dark laughter, midway games, freaky side shows, and seedy characters! A blend of warm caramel popcorn, nutty candy apples, and fluffy cotton candy. This scent is not for eating - although you just might be tempted! http://www.darkcandles.com/item--Dark-Carnival--darkcarnival.html Yankee Candle has a scent called 'Butter Cream.' They have that scent in many different ways: candle, reed diffuser, and other diffusers. . . . . There is also popcorn scented candles available at: www.usasoycandles.com/scentedcandles262.php Now I'll bet I can find what I'm looking for. Just
so you know! March 29, 2008 NCC Convention 2008 flyers will be available very soon at CJ's of Cloquet (MN), Gordy's in Hermantown (MN) as well as at the next Village North Collectors Club meeting on April 16. You can see the 2008 'Spookytown' from Lemax at: https://lemax-spookytown.com/ShoppingCart/Default.asp http://www.barcourt.com/lemaxcarnival.htm has added the prices to the 2008 Lemax carnival prices. Unfortunately they are in Australian dollars. Has anyone seen potpourri, or maybe a candle, with the 'essence' of popcorn? I'd like to add an additional 'sense' to our carnival display next year. That seems like the proper thing (and best smelling). Just so
you know! March 26, 2008 David, Here is a list of what we have received so far from Department 56. Since we are renovating, the product is in carts, but just ask and we can get it for you. The renovations should be completed soon so the product can be displayed. SV Yuengling
Tavern Just let
me know if you need anything else Just
so you know! March 22, 2008 There is a new web site that promises to have the new Lemax 'Spooky Town' soon. Right now it only lists a few things. For future reference it is: www.buildingnewworlds.com New Dept
56 houses at CJ's of Cloquet (repeat list): Just so
you know! March 16, 2008 Still at Scale Model Supplies, Linda found some interesting 'cartoon/movie' type warriors. Not sure what we would ever do with them, but they are the correct size for our needs. 'Ultraseven vs Alienneutron' was the name of one set ($26.95 per set). It looks like they make twelve different sets of two. They are colorful and different looking - could challenge an imagination to use them in a display. These were made in China, the date of the box was 1999. Sorry, can't find an Internet source for these pieces. We also found a James Bond set of people that were nicely done, if a bit big for Dept 56 Heritage Villages. Would/could work well with Snow Village but they aren't shiny. For $20 each we saw: James Bond, Odd Job, Drax, Dr. No, Jaws, and Scaramanga. I have to admit that I don't recognize all the names, but there were all together in a the same boxes so. . . . . . . . at Scale Model Supplies If you are a 'gas station collector' you might like something else we found at Scale Model Supplies. It is called the 'Deep Rock Gas Station' - Home Oil Company. We didn't take it out of the container, but it looked good on the box. A stone motif, with an attached windmill (nice attached details). It appears shiny but that is probably OK - judging by the box it is Snow Village size. It is from 'Lofton's Roadside USA Collection.' Cost? $89.50. Nickelodeon Universe is now open at the Mall of America (Bloomington, MN). Not sure I like 'Sponge Bob Square Pants' better then 'Snoopy,' but then I don't run a really big store either (so it wasn't my decision). Village North meeting, Wednesday, March 19th at C's in Superior, WI. 6 P.M. As normal, it is a dinner meeting and guests are welcome. We stopped at the toy store in North Branch (formerly the Tangier Outlet Mall) MN. Nothing at all there for us (and for some reason, the prices are up pretty good). We have always found interesting stuff before, so we were disappointed. Did you take advantage of tomorrows holiday? Display-wise I mean? Linda and I saw a Fisher run across the road last Friday. We were on Arlington Avenue in Duluth Heights. It was only the third uncaged Fisher I have seen in my life - just so you know! Just
so you know! March 11, 2008 Dept 56 introduced 'Village Fences' ($15.00) in 2006 - they were corner pieces. In 2007 they have added two coordinating pieces: 'Village Steps' ($12.50) and 'Village Straight Fence' ($25.00). It looks like the 'straight fence' can do exactly that - you can connect them end to end. To me are low fences for fancy homes. The ends are brick and the fences black 'metal.' The next Village North Collectors Club meeting will be March 19. 6 P.M. is the hour at C's in Superior, WI. Linda and I are not big Halloween displayers - we do do a whole bunch of carnival. Having said that, Dept 56 has gone and done something that confuses me. They are continuing the Halloween 'Scaredy Cat Ferris Wheel' and the 'Spinning Pumpkins' - they have discontinued the Carnival versions of the same pieces. It has been suggested to me that Halloween sells and carnival doesn't but I'm not so sure that my favorite received a fair shake. Four 'pieces' and two accessories introduced over two years (beginning in 2004). Already they are all gone. - Our thanks to Lemax for carrying on, and expanding their carnival line. Dept 56 is offering seven new 'trees' for 2008. I like several of them, but one really caught my attention - the "Finial Trees." My 1981 Webster's New Collegiate Dictionary defines 'finial' as a crowning ornament or detail (as a decorative knob). Further searching found an additional definition: a usually foliated ornament forming an upper extremity especially in Gothic architecture. To me it looks like an ornament for the top of a Christmas tree in purple, hot pink, and green (Linda helped me define the colors). Not sure what we'll do with them, but they will be somewhere in our village. I found some new Safari Ltd. characters at Michael's in Duluth (MN). They have many neat pirates, knights and dragons. Except for the dragons, the rest are too large for our villages - they might work OK with Dept 56 Snow Village. Some maybe be usable in Halloween displays. The range in price from $3.99 to $4.99 each, a couple of the dragons are up to $14.99. - They still have many of the small (usable) ones. The front door is back where it belongs at Gordy's in Hermantown (MN). For a few days we won't be able to get back to the Dept 56 area (construction). It doesn't make a big difference - all they have that's new for 2008 are the Dept 56 brochures. Oh, just so you know, the store office is again downstairs. Four months to the National Council of 56 Clubs National Convention! You don't want to miss this NCC event - current information can be found at: www.ncc2008convention.com The dates for 'NCC Comes Home to D56' are June 26-29, 2008 - the place is the Ramada Mall of American, Bloomington, MN. Linda and I will be there - just so you know! Just so you know! March 5, 2008 Just
so you know! February 28, 2008 The Dept 56 2007 Christmas in the City release ‘Hammerstein Piano Co.’ looked familiar to me when I first saw it. Grand piano in the interior scene, upright piano suspended above the ground (on the outside). Then it dawned on me – it has a real resemblance to the Lemax ‘MacEnvoy’s Pianos.’ While the MacEnvoy's had no 'outside' piano, it was among the first buildings we owned with an 'interior' scene (that was what, ten years ago). There is difference in cost as well, $20 compared to $90! The Dept 56 New England Village 'Bennington Manor' was the first new release received at CJ's of Cloquet (MN). They also have the 2008 Dept 56 brochures available. My thanks to Cece for the info. Just
so you know! February 6, 2008 It looks like the Lemax zoo is going to get off to a big start in 2008. I'm going to really be interested to see how many of these end up on store shelves in our area next fall. So far I have spotted 'City Zoo Entrance,' 'Safari Rides,' 'City Zoo Visitors' (animated with a one big bird cage and one big monkey cage), 'Penguins House' (with some sort of animation or sound), 'Reptile House' (also with some sort of sound or animation), 'Polar Bear Cage' and 'Giraffe Cage' (both animated), and a 'Petting Zoo.' There may be more that I missed - the catalog is over 100 pages and I have to view it on the computer. They also so not list any prices. Just so
you know! February 3, 2008 Everyone told us how cold it was, but 56 people still showed up for our village open house two weeks ago. We were very happy to see them and they enjoyed this years displays. We followed that with 19 visitors on Sunday when we were part of our Village North Collectors Club tour of homes (the tour had five homes, each very different and very nice). January 27, we had 15 additional folks here for a small open house. It sure makes it a lot of fun to do displays when folks come over to see them - thanks! 'Lemax Junior Flight School' is a piece that many folks are looking. Since Christmas I have received at least a half dozen E-mails from folks looking for one. They found me 'cause Dave Erickson posts these words on the Minnesota 56 Clubs web site (and I had mentioned the Flight School a while back). I know a couple of people found one at a big discount after Christmas at Michael's (it was a store exclusive). Now there are people wishing to buy the piece on eBay. Some are willing to pay the full $99.99 price (if I read their info correctly). http://www.felinaworld.nl/index.php?cPath=3_302_3110 offers the Luville line from the Netherlands. They look like very nice pieces. The houses might be a bit different for our displays but the people look very nice (and useable). I have no idea about the cost, but it doesn't matter. So far they are not available in the U.S. I've seen it mentioned that shipping is at least $30 for a small accessory - we need to wait and see if someone imports them. I have attached a couple of my carnival/fair favorites as samples. http://www.barcourt.com/lemaxaccess.htm lists some of the 2008 Lemax releases. They picture none of them (nor do they show prices). Note that in addition to several new carnival accessories, they also list things for a zoo! Now that sounds interesting. Following are the ones that I found: 84517 Assorted Birds Set of 5; 83686 Carnival Lemonade Stand; 83693 Hoop Stars; 83681 Clownin Around; 83685 Fishing Pond; 83702 City Zoo Entrance; 83683 Safari Rides; 84808 The Tea Cups, animated and musical; 74703 Junior Flight School, animated and musical (looks like this may not be a Michael's exclusive in 2008); 85505 Vail Village Welcome; 848854 City Zoo Visitors Set, animated and musical; 844809 The Zinger, animated and musical; Madame Viola's Tent; 84823 Penguins House; 84849 Reptile House; 84847 Polar Bear Cage; 84848 Giraffe Cage; 83684 and Spin To Win. http://aiit.net/ Raggedy Country, offers a 2008 Lemax Catalog. However it is over 100 pages and our slow computer, slow dial-up, won't allow us to print it out on-line. The February/March Village D-Lights will be in the mail next week - just so you know! Just so
you know! December 7, 2007 Just
so you know! November 25, 2007 Just
so you know! November 18, 2007
Today and tomorrow, Duluth Model Railroad Show at the Radisson Hotel in downtown Duluth (MN). Maybe not Christmas villages, but we can learn a lot about display stuff nonetheless. Admission is $5 for adults - proceeds go towards adding a handicapped accessible Railway Post Office Car to the Lake Superior and Mississippi Historic/Scenic Railroad. 10 A.M. to 5 P.M. today (Saturday, November 17) and 11 - 4 on Sunday. I just saw it in this mornings Duluth Bugdeteer News. Linda and I are on our way down now (almost). In case I forget to tell you, have a nice Thanksgiving! Just
so you know! November 10, 2007 We stopped at Denny's Ace Hardware in Woodland - Duluth MN. They have a whole bunch more 'Christmas village' offerings than in past years. If my numbers are correct they have twenty four Heartland Valley Village different houses and a half dozen or so from Lemax. Many of the Heartland Valley Village houses are new for 2007. The names on the series are 'LED Porcelain House;' 'Harborside Village' (lighthouses); 'Motion Homes,' (animated/sound); and 'Retro Village.' They also have a 'Covered Bridge Section' (with three bridges). - The majority of the houses are $24.99 (on sale for $14.99). The 'LED' houses are $24.99, 'Motion Houses' are $39.99, 'Harborside Village' are $19.99, and 'Retro Village' sells for $19.99. There is also more than a few Heartland and Lemax accessories/people/trees. - If you stop by in Woodland, you need to look on the wall to your right for the 'other half' of the products. - In my opinion, the quality is pretty good. Not to Dept 56 standards certainly, but more than decent. Some of the painting is a little 'off' and they don't really seemed to have figured out 'signage.' Some of the writing on the buildings, and other signs, is pretty hookey. We've already decided to change a couple of things on the two buildings that we purchased. - I'm not sure what the Ace Hardware downtown has for 'villages.' I should have a report on that Monday. - I haven't been able to find many of the Heartland stuff pictured on the Internet. The national Ace Hardware site only has a couple of house shown. http://village-peddler.com/villagehouses.html has most of the Lemax Coventry Cove houses, figures and accessories can be found on this site. It is one of the few places I have found these pictured. Veteran's Day - November 11! Just
so you know! November 7, 2007 I have been informed that the Menard's in Superior (WI) has Lemax Christmas available. I have also been told that their prices may even be a bit cheaper than other stores. They seem to be behind on other Christmas items. Thanks to Lani for the update. Lemax adapters for $5.99 at Michael's in Duluth (MN). The ones on sale are with the Halloween stuff. They still had a bunch of them yesterday afternoon. Remember that Lemax sells two adapters with multiple plugs. They have different voltages and the connectors are also different. Your accessories all tell you which one they require. Lemax Christmas villages are only out in the Hermantown (MN) KMart. Nothing yet in the Superior (WI) store. Yes, 'Just so you know!' regularly appears in Village D-Lights. I've been asked that a couple of times recently so I thought maybe others were wondering as well. Just
so you know! November 6, 2007 Just
so you know! November 4, 2007 I did notice that PETCO does have some of their 'pet landscapes' on sale. Seems to be the ones they sell for snakes and lizards. They might work in our displays. I haven't looked closely, in person, at the ones currently pictured. They are called 'T-Rex Landscapes.' We do like some of the underwater, fish tank, 'hiding places' they have offered in the past. Linda and I have actually begun our 2007-2008 village displays. Some additional planning has been accomplished, we have a table and another area with some wiring run. In other words, the house is becoming a seasonal mess (after a period of time, Linda hates that part) . Just
so you know! November 3, 2007 Just
so you know! November 2, 2007 Kohl's has 50% off St. Nicholas Square tomorrow, Saturday, November 3rd. At least the Duluth store. Not sure what they have but I'll bet we'll stop by. Went and made a '50% off' tree purchase at Shopko this morning. I was right, they do have almost all of their products available. The carnival 'Cha-Cha,' bumper cars and one other are plentiful (and half price). We didn't take the chance and paid full price for these at Michael's two months ago. Such is life. - Sale ends on Saturday, November 4th. Dept 56 has added the 2007 retirement list to their web pages. http://www.department56.com/ Has anyone seen any 'village stuff' at a Lowes? We don't have any in our area. How about JoAnn's? Just so
you know! November 1, 2007 CHANGE, CHAnge, change - the November Village North Collectors Club meeting will be held on the 28th. Yes, November 28th. If you were at the last meeting month this is a reminder, if you weren't there, now you know. The change was made to take the meeting away from Thanksgiving eve. Time remains 6 P.M., the location is C's in Superior, WI. http://www.thesatinbutton.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=66_149 That is a web site that lists the 2007 Dept 56 Village and Snowbabies retirements. If you go to the Satin Button web page you'll find the link in the words 'Retirement List' in the second paragraph. I haven't had time to look the list over yet. The announcing of 'the list' doesn't seem to be the the fun it used to be - can't figure that out. Just
so you know! October 31, 2007 At the Hermantown (MN) KMart - no village items out yet. They should be soon (if they are doing anything this year). I did find key chains with crime fighters 'Robin' (of Batman and) 44230, and 'Wonder Woman' 44230 http://www.monogramdirect.com/newsItem.asp?id=193 They are about 2 3/4" inches tall and cost $2.99 each. The 'NCC national D56 Convention' web site is being updated on a very regular basis. You do need to look around to find the changes, but maybe that is part of the fun. Anyway, the event 'registration form' is there to be printed. Information on the Stillwater/Tiny Town 'bus tour' is also available. http://www.ncc2008convention.com/Stillwater.htm - there is a link to the Village D-Lights article on 'Tiny Town' written by Linda (my wife). I found adjustable folding tables at Sam's Club in Hermantown (MN). They can be either 36" counter height; 29" table height; or 24" childrens height. The size is 2' x 4' - $37.67. They are that 'newer' white plastic/fiberglass (?) type material. That makes they pretty light weight. Linda and I think they would be a good choice if we were buying new tables right now. We really like, and would appreciate, the 14" choice in display heights. I'm sure we'll have a couple soon - even at that price. Naruto, 3 people, $8.89. They are Japanese ningas - from comic books, TV show? The tallest is a little less than 3 inches. I can see them in a carnival, circus or gang (out of place in most of our 'fun' displays). Found them at KMart. They are also on many web sites. You just put in "Naruto." Hope you had a Happy Halloween! Just
so you know! October 27, 2007 The Hermantown (MN) Menard's is still in the process of getting their 'stuff' out. They never have as much 'village' as West Duluth and it appears that it will be that way again this year. - I haven't been to the Superior (WI) store for a while so I can't tell you what they are offering. Just
so you know! October 9, 2007 The new Dept 56 Gift Sets are all available at Gordys in Hermantown (MN). Limited stock so get there early if you want to be sure to get yours. The next Village North Collectors Club dinner meeting will be held on Wednesday, Oct 17. It will begin at 6 P.M. at C's in Superior, WI. Remember the display contest. Expect an update from Adelaide on the clubs Hospitality Room responsibilities for the June NCC Convention in Bloomington, MN. Just
so you know! October 7, 2007 The Kohl's flyer in todays paper shows 40% off the Village Collection from St. Nicholas Square. This is about the best time to go there if you are at all interested. It is the best combination of selection (complete) and sale price. Prices good through October 13. I've been told that they have the display houses out - finally! As long as I'm reporting what's in todays paper, Michael's has the usual 25% off Lemax Christmas Village. It is 30% off Lemax Halloween. No restocking of Lemax Christmas yet. Just
so you know! October 6, 2007 No village stuff, but Christmas season has arrived at Pennys in the Miller Hill Mall as well. They do have the Mr. Christmas 'Country Fair Carousel' and a windup Ferris wheel. The carousel is the same one that has been around for awhile. A little big, but looks good and does include kids as riders. The Ferris wheel isn't really special, but some folks might like it as a 'stationary' accessory. The colors are good. As of today, still no Lemax village items out at Kmart in Duluth MN. Other Christmas stuff, yes but all the other space in that area is Halloween (nothing village). Friday, Sears at the Miller Hill Mall still didn't have any sign of Christmas on their shelves. Still hoping to see the Dept 56 'Christmas Story' soon. We have made regular purchases of the people each year they have been available. Scott Weischair, of Weishair Custom Software, recently posted the following message on Dept 56 Yahoo groups: "As of October 5, 2007, we will no longer be selling or supporting the 'Village Collector' and 'Beer Stein Collector' software packages." There was more to the message, but that is the gist of it. I know some folks use their software to 'keep track' of what Dept 56 items they process. Their web site is: villagecollector.com From James on a Dept 56 Yahoo group: "The picture of the Fortunoffs exclusive (or early release) for Christmas in the City, the Ferrera Bakery is now on the Fortunoff's web site. I think this is the proper link: http://www.fortunoff.com/product.asp? " The National Council of 56 Clubs has announced election results for officers for 2008: President-Randy Miller; VIce President-Jackie Pool; Secretary-Trish Goscicki; and Treasurer-Michele Brown. Congratulations to all! Just so
you know! September 26, 2007 Rich, on the same Dept 56 group, posted this message yesterday(?) as well: "Went to the Boscov's site and found this: "Yuengling Tavern - Boscov's Exclusive -Introducing the Yuengling Tavern from Department 56's Snow Village Collection. This handcrafted ceramic house includes a beer garden patio area and silo featuring Yuengling Lager. From America's oldest brewery. Built with the same traditions and values found in Pottsville, PA, home of the Yuengling Brewery since 1829, this piece features outstanding architectural design and details. Limited edition of 1000 pieces. Exclusively at Boscov's!" There is a picture at: http://www.boscovs.com/StoreFrontWeb/Product.bos?itemNumber=39030&type=Product Visited Shopko again today (to get a battery for Lindas' watch-honest!). I noticed that they had several accessories with 'no snow.' No snow, and, no winter clothes. They are: 'Log with Axe,' 'Barn Bird House,' 'Park Footbridge,' 'We're Late!' (2 girls running), and 'Girl Talk,' (two girls sitting on a bench). Is there some sort of trend here, with no snow. - I bought 'Toy Soldiers' and 'Try Your Luck!' I mentioned 'Countdown to Christmas' - I looked at the piece again. They made it so you can use all eight sides of the two little blocks with numbers. That should make it easy to combine numbers for the countdown - I think! Also easy to lose the little blocks. I'd better go back and check again. These were also at Shopko in Duluth (MN). Just
so you know! September 25, 2007 Anyway, I'll begin with houses. I'm sure that six or seven of them are new for 2007. They don't provide a brochure and I just didn't take the time to write them all down. I will say there are no 'must buys' for the Spears' family. A couple are nice, but they are very much like something we already have in Dept 56 New England. The buildings seem to be a bit smaller in size, and scale, this time around. And, almost all of them have a 'view inside.' Some are pretty nice, a couple, not so much. Some do have different colored lights on the outside - a nice touch. For the carnival they have the animated: 'Crazy Cars,' $89.99; 'Cha-Cha,' $89.99; and the 'Starburst' Ferris wheel, $99.99. Carnival accessories the 'Carnival Ticket Booth' $21.99 (three clowns and a dad with his daughter), and the 'Popcorn Stand' (Lemax, not animated Mr Christmas). All of these are back from previous years. New for carnival use, 'Monkey Business' (man with organ grinder, monkey and maybe three children), and 'Try Your Luck,' (a card hustle). People listed as 2007 were the following titles: 'Conductor,' 'Out Shopping,' Village Minister,' 'Tea Time,' ' School Marn,' 'Girl Talk,' 'We're Late,' 'Oktoberfest,' and 'Bidding Time.' There may have been one or two more. These were most all $2.49 each. In other new animation they had the very large 'City Sidewalks' $99.99, 'Sneak A Peek,' (a couple kissing on a bench with two kids watching [popping up and down behind a hedge], and 'Boys vs. Girls' $24.99 (tug of war). Some individual accessories that I feel worth mentioning are: 'Countdown to Christmas' $24.99 (a sign that allows you to change the number of days 'til Christmas by rotating two blocks. Now that I think of it, I'm not sure how they could do that with two four sided blocks. I might have to check that out. Hmmmmmm. It does come with some people as well; a new 'Hook & Ladder' $34.99 (pretty big red fire wagon pulled by two horses and carrying five fireman); a large dog pulling a sled/sleigh with two people $9.99; 'Free To A Good Home' (giving away kittens); 'Father William jumps in' (a priest jumping rope); yellow park benches; and lighted 'Toy Soldiers' $9.99. They really do have more selection that any other store in our area selling Lemax. I got out of there without buying anything - just so you know! Just
so you know! . . . . . September 24, 2007 Menard's seems to be shooting for sometime between now and the middle of October to have all their Christmas items out. Most stores seem to have begun today. So far none of the stores I have info on have received any Christmas village items. Thanks to store sources and John R. for helping me out. Kmarts in Duluth/Superior are beginning to put there Christmas in place. Nothing village related - yet! Please let me know if you see something. I thought that I sent this out before, but I can't find it so here it is again(?). Dept 56 has added two new houses in their "A Christmas Story" line. They are: "Schultz Optometry" item number 56.06283 and "The Uptown Theater" item number 56.06284. There is an accessory for the Optometry shop otherwise I have heard of nothing else. No sign of Christmas at our Sears store in Duluth MN. The Super Walmart in Superior (WI) has their very limited idea of villages for Christmas on the shelves. In my opinion it ain't worth the trip unless you are in that store for another reason. They do have several of the animated 'Popcorn Poppers' left. 'Pit Crew!' Someone asked where they could find the 'little people' pit crew ornaments. The Super Walmart in Superior (WI) had two different colors available - black and white and red and white. Several Walmarts have the pit crews, but most only have the versions that are monkeys, teddy bears, snowmen and something else. I really think that these kids are the cutest. Frankies Hot Dog Stand is available to CJ's in Cloquet MN. Act now or it may be too late. It looks pretty darn good to me - bright, colorful and detailed. Just
so you know! September 21, 2007 By the time you read this, Kohl's in Duluth (MN) should have all of it's Christmas stuff out. It is in the same area of the store, but against the back wall this year. When I was there they had most all the stock available but no sign of a village display - yet. Among the items with a '2007' label were: 'Grandma's House,' 'Stone Cabin,' 'Country Chapel' and 'Ski Chalet.' I actually liked this years houses better than in the past. Sorry, I didn't note the prices. They did have the animated 'ski hill' again. The cost for that was $99.99 (of course everything was 25% off that day). New people, accessories: kids with sled; fireman with dog (cute, dog has fire hat in his mouth); snowman with two kids; and mother and daughter shopping. I paid $4.99 for the fireman (well actually it was on sale, and then the senior citizens discount - with tax it was $3.41). Thanks to Mary H. from Cloquet (MN) for the heads up. - Ooops, they also had all the new Keepsake Ornaments available. Didn't look at them close, but I did notice a cool golf cart (in case someone is looking for one other than the Dept 56 Snow Village version). The Target Store, I guess that is in Duluth (MN). They have a whole bunch of Halloween product out. I mean lots! The only thing that interested me at all was some animation. They varied in price from $19.99 to $27.99, maybe 4 or 5 different choices of Halloween type stuff. The one that drew my attention was the ship. The movement is nothing special, but for some reason my eye was drawn to it. Same Target Store but in the small Christmas area. I saw several collections of small ornaments that we might just find a place for in our displays. Note I said might. One was/were those delightful Dept 56 'M&M' fellows/gals. There are five in a set and they belong with the M&M house. Two, was a set of five characters from 'Sesame Street.' They look like they would be decorating a Christmas tree. And third, from Nick Jr, 'Go Diego Go!' - four little girls doing stuff (don't remember what). They sure don't look like the rest of our people, but they are really cute. The sets were $6.99 each. I stayed in the Target for awhile longer and this is some of what I found in the toy department. In the 'Pirates of the Caribbean' collection I found two rather neat sets: 'Capt Jack Sparrow & Crew' and the 'Empress' crew (they are Oriental). They would probably be a tad small for our use, but for $7.99 for the set, they are pretty darn nice. They also had some in the 'too large for our use' size. - I also spotted some 'Epic Combat Warriors' from Maruto. I have no idea if they are from a movie, TV show, game, whatever, but one in each set of three might be a fun person in a kids display. The others are 'over the top' as far as I'm concerned. $6.99 per set. - I did purchase 'Kheir-Ed-Din' and 'Backbeard' from the Pirateology mini figure collection. They are $5.99 each and will make nice additions to our pirate battle this year. Not sure the Dept 56 'Emily Louise' makes a great pirate ship - might have to work on that - hmmmmm. Anyway it looks like Pirateology is a game and these are the 'game pieces.' There are four other choices as well. - Speaking of games, this same company also has a 'Wizardology The Game.' Don't know what it's about, but the set comes with 6 wizards, maybe the same number of small animals and a few other 'wizard things' for the game. The people/animals are close to the right size for us. Not sure if we need wizards, yet, but if we do the complete game is available for $24.99. - 'Schleich' has a figure called "Big Blue Sword.' It looks to me like it belongs in a park, or in front of a museum, well you get the idea. Too large to be a 'real person' in a display but would work great as a statue. $4.99. Note: nothing about the figure is blue. Did I mention it is a suit of armor? A local radio station DJ talked about vising, as a man, Michael's Arts and Crafts. Before he was done he had the sports guy, the news guy and his co-host all telling 'Michael's stories.' Things like "there are 47 aisles in here?" "or a guy needs a GPS to find his way out." He said " there is a back corner that you must tell a store associate you are going in. If you are not out in five minutes they come looking for you." That was the 'yarn corner' in the rear of the store. They went on for 10-12 minutes. I wish I could remember more of their experiences. I think they might have been funnier when they told them. O'well. Just
so you know! . . . . . September 19, 2007 From Jack on the Dept 56 Yahoo Group: . . . . "There are two new pieces for "A Christmas Story, they are: "Schultz Optometry" item number 56.06283 and "The Uptown Theater" Item number 56.06284." - So far no listing or photos on the Dept 56 or Sears web sites. The Dept 56 Carnival Ferris Wheel sells for $85.00. If you order it from Dept 56 on-line the shipping is $10.95. Tax is added when you 'checkout.' For me that would total $102.67. - Yes, I realize that I always have to pay the tax but I thought I'd throw it in anyway. In my opinion, shopping on the Dept 56 web site doesn't compare with buying from a local dealer. A member of our local Village North Collectors Club just received this information in the mail. It came on a fancy postcard from Lenox, Incorporated, P.O. Box 743, Bristol, PA 19007-0743. "Department 56 Grand Opening of our Newest Stores in: Novi, Michigan; Orlando, Florida; and Palm Beach, Florida. All Department 56 Locations are joining in the Celebration. September 20 - October 15. Take 25% off all Christmas Trim - Take 25% off all Sandra Magsamen Messages from the Heart - Take 50% off all retired Village that's what it says, Village) - Take 50% off all retired Snowbabies. It also has a Purchase One Department 56 'The Original Snow Village Halloween' building at the regular price and receive this 12 piece Ghostly Landscape Set for $12.00 - a savings of 65% off the regular price (postcard must be presented at time of purchase). In addition to the three new stores above this sale also applies to The Department 56 Flagship Stores at: Downtown Disney, Anaheim, CA; PIER 39, San Francisco, CA; Mall of America, Bloomington, MN; Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach, SC; Desert Passage Mall, Las Vegas, NV." http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dept56/spnew/view/f5ed?i=182 That is the link to a photo of the Mr. Christmas 'popcorn popper' with an elf as the seller. It is from Karen Peden on the West Coast. If all worked out, the photo might also be right below these words. Just
so you know! September 15, 2007 I understand that I need a 6 volt power supply as an adapter to replace the batteries on the 'Popping Popcorn Stand.' I'm looking for one and I'll let you know how it turns out. Kohl's in Duluth (MN) has nothing out as far as Christmas goes. They don't seem to do much Halloween either - nothing 'village-wise.' The Christmas items are beginning to show up at TJ Max in Hermantown (MN). They do have a couple of lighthouses that would work with a New England village. The cost was $12.95 each. They do have 'light holes' in the bottom - didn't see any lights with them. - They also had a couple of choices of 'clear crystal' rectangles with 'translucent' elephants inside. Maybe and inch or inch and a half square (or a bit larger) - four to five inches long. With proper placement and lighting, I think they would made a great addition to a zoo (as a sign), or in any park. Only $5.99. The Dollar Store in Hermantown (?) MN has very little Christmas stuff. Maybe more coming in as the season gets closer. If you are looking for cartoon characters, Dollar Tree in Hermantown (MN) is the place. They have a bunch of 'folks' from movies about Cinderella, Shreck, Winnie The Pooh, the Disney Villains, Sesame Street, Lion King, Peter Pan, 101 Dalmatians, and Nemo. All are 2 1/2 inches tall or taller. We spent eighteen dollars. I think Capt Hook is the coolest but look for the Lion in our displays as well. - They also have a whole bunch of regular Christmas stuff out as well. Easily the best choice of the 'dollar' stores in our area (for our purposes). We received our 'regular mail' reminder of the Village North meeting from Lani. It is next Wednesday, September 19 at C's in Superior (WI). We will be talking about the clubs Tour of Homes, Christmas Party and the NCC 2008 Convention. Time? - 6:00 P.M. - Bring your paper products and pop tabs for the Ronald McDonald House. Just
so you know! September XX, 2007 http://www.kurtadler.com/consumer_catalog/product_detail.php/pid=300042~subid=153774/index.html I just measured, the ones I have are two inches tall. The web site says one inch. Luigi Ferrari from Pixar Cars (the movie). The real small version of Luigi might be just the ticket to use as a third vehicle on our Dept 56 'Ice Racing Today' animated track. Now I have to decide if I want to spend $8 to check it out. It all depends on the weight of the little car, and, if there is a place to put a small magnet. Hmmmmm We were at the 'Super Walmart' in Cloquet (MN) today - see above. They do have the beginning of their Christmas village out. It does include the Mr. Christmas 'Popping Popcorn Stand!' We also noticed something pretty darn neat with the 'Sea Food Gallery.' The small ship made into restaurant features a couple actually dancing around inside. We never saw that before. We liked it before, will almost certainly buy it now. Note: Not all Walmarts stock the same village stuff, or toys. You just gotta look around. In the toy department of the Cloquet (MN) Walmart Linda spotted some 'Transformer Chess Pieces.' They are neat little, knights. Too small for most of what we do, but neat looking. $9.92 for a set of seven. We stopped at CJ's in Cloquet (MN) late Monday afternoon - Cece wasn't there. Now we may have just missed her, but if she truly wasn't there, that would be a first in a long time. Just so you know! L & M Supply in Cloquet (MN) has some new 'people' this year that could be used in our displays. They are rubber(?) and not too detailed. The thing that makes them fun is the variety of activities that they are involved in. Example: in their 'Wild-Life' series, they offer fishing, bow hunting and bird hunting. Each of the three sets includes four people, the animals/fish they are hunting and several other accessories - all for just $3.99. They also have several other sets with people doing different things. They expect more in during the next month or so. You may want to also look at their selection of little tractors, farm implements and animals. You never know what you might find - and the prices are good. The next Village North Collectors Club meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 19. That would be next week? Details to follow. Just
so you know! September 10, 2007 In the toy department at Kmart in West Duluth (MN), I did find some accessories/people that might could be useful. They included some different people from 'Pirates of the Caribbean.' They are approximately 2 1/2 inches tall and come four to a package for $4.49. The same collection also had the Pirate Fleet 'Empress' for $9.99. Maybe 7-8 inches long, it is the plastic, Chinese looking ship that I sort of like. The three people with it are way to small for our use. They also have some taller, 3 plus inch, people from 'Pirates' that some folks might like - $6.99 each however. Linda insisted that we purchase another 'kids' castle - so we did! - $5.00. It's from 'Just Kidz.' We bought it for the castle facade. It also has a couple of fairly large suits of armor (5 inches), swords, shields and such. I think it's called 'Royal Knight.' I can't read their fancy type style very well. Note: The 'Big Walmart' in Superior (WI) had many of the same pirates but they also have something else. A larger version of the 'Empress' pirate ship. I guess it is part of a game so the cost is up, $17.88, but if you are looking for a different ship, take a look. All this stuff is in the stores' toy departments - just so you know! 'Fake Rusty Barbed Wire,' - we just purchased 20 feet for $3.99 at Menard's in West Duluth (MN). It is with the Halloween stuff. It's natural for that season and we can see several uses for it in at least our 'western' display at Christmas time. Or a New England farm scene. It looks really good! Yes I know - I sent out two of these on September 8 and didn't call the second one #2. Sometimes I even confuse myself. Thanks for mentioning it - at least I know you are reading what I write. Oh yes, someone asked me and Kathy at Gordy's, Hermantown (MN), had told me last week. The Dept 56 rep says that the 'Hot Dog Stand' is on it's way. I'll let you know. Just
so you know! September 8, 2007 They have added Series #10 to the Homie collection. Didn't seem to show any 'must haves' in the first picture I found. When they show up locally I'll check them out and let you know. Web site: http://store.homies.tv/Merchant5/merchant.mvc We were at the Walmart in Hermantown (MN) this afternoon. Linda says she likes their 'Charlotte-Geresee Lighthouse.' It features a blue beacon light that goes around. Cost is $19.46. - The 'LED Decorate The Tree' is still sitting in their display. Still lit up - still not moving. I was able to find one more in a box, so I know the name (see a couple of sentences back) and the price of $14.93. The people on the piece look better than most of this line so if you are looking for inexpensive movement, this might be a choice worth looking at. Just
so you know! September 8, 2007 Found a 'Pirates of the Caribbean' playset at Sam's Club, Hermantown (MN). Yes, I said 'playset.' Anyway the part that I thought worth mentioning is the 'Empress Ship.' It is probably only decent, made of plastic, but I liked the Chinese look. The people that come with the game are either way to small, or way to big, for our villages. The real problem is the cost - $69.88 for the playset. I made a return visit to the Christmas area at the Walmart in Hermantown (MN). They had a couple of 'powered' items that may be of interest to some folks. One is a set of carolers. It wasn't hooked up so I don't know how it sounded. Pretty sure there is no movement. It looked just OK for $8.48. - They also had an animated 'around the tree.' Maybe five people/kids going around the tree. Again it wasn't hooked up so I don't know what it looks like when animated. Also they had none in a box, or any idea what it cost -sorry. In the toy department at Walmart I found some new, at least to me, people of interest. The several sets from Star Wars included: Commanders, Rebel Blockade Troops, Storm Trooper Boarding Party, and The Street of Mos Eisley. Most might be a little to big for our villages, but at least one set of four looked like we might find a use. They are 'poseable' and cost $9.88 per set. Just
so you know! September 7, 2007 Please remember that the CJ's of Cloquet (MN) 'Courtyard Sale' has all retired collectibles on sale. Buy one, get one free! Mix and match collective lines (equal or lesser value free). Perfect time to stock up for Christmas. Manager Cece, at CJ's, E-mailed to tell me that this sale has been successful and is continuing. Stop by and take a look! I just purchased 'Marty' (with 'Jack The Monkey' and 'Duck Foot Pistol'). I have no idea who/what they are except that the box says "Disney, Pirates of the Caribbean at World's End." I thought that Marty would look fine in our pirate vignette and the monkey is way to cute. He appears mad and is wearing a Chinese(?) type hat. $5.88 at Walmart in Hermantown (MN). Jack is just of 1 inch in length and Marty about 2 1/2 inches tall. That makes them just about right for most of what we do. There are seven or eight other characters from the movie available, but they appear to be at least three inches in height. Rey Mysterio, Batista, and Hulk Hogan are part of the Micro Aggression Series 2 set. I think they will make a good side show attraction for our carnival/fair/circus in our display. The package back shows nine different characters and states "Don't be a punk . . GET 'EM ALL!" I'm pretty sure that these three will be my limit. It says recommended for ages 12 and up soooo. They are from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and Jakks Pacific, $4.96 for a set of four at Walmart, Hermantown (MN). www.jakkswwe.com For $8.48 you get a motion activated 'Popping Popcorn Stand!' That's right, you walk up, the light comes on and inside the 'glassed in' box on the stand, 'popcorn' (little white and yellow balls) begin moving up and down. Folks, it does look like a popcorn stand. Not fancy, and so far only battery (four AAA's) operated, but a very nice attention getter. It's from 'Mr. Christmas' - I found ours at Walmart in Hermantown (MN). Oh yes, after ten seconds it does the 'shut down' thing. That makes it already for the next person to come close. I haven't looked, but the paperwork shows www.mrchristmas.com as a source. They call it "Animated Popcorn Maker." The is 2008 National NCC Department 56 Convention June 26-29, 2008 in Bloomington, MN. They/we are beginning to fill the host Ramada Mall of American hotel. To make reservations, go to the event web site: www.ncc2008convention.com Then click on Ramada. The NCC already has a backup hotel listed as well. Just
so you know! September 2, 2007 Correction - four different creatures. I forgot the teddy bears! Earlier I wrote: "At the same Hermantown Walmart store they did have a couple of Christmas ornaments that we are probably going to buy. For sure we will have the five 'person' pit crew as an addition for our Dept 56 Ice Racing animated track. They are perfect!. They come as the crews for Kasey Kahne, Jeff Gordon, Jimmy Johnson, Tony Stewart, Dale Earnhardt and Dale Earnhardt Jr. I saw three versions: 'little people,' snowmen and monkeys. Not sure if all are available for each driver. We will opt for the little people - good look and nice size. Cost? $5.97 for a set of five. They also have some new Coca Cola ornaments, five pack for $5.97. Small polar bears(?) doing winter things, i.e., snow boarding, snowmen, riding on ice, etc. They look like they belong at the North Pole. Oh yes, we purchased the red version of the Dale Earnhardt Jr. pit crew. Going to Dept 56 gathering (or other event) in Canada? I just copied the following information from the U.S. Department of State web site. It was in the Q & A section. "When entering Canada from the United States, U.S. citizens are encouraged to show a U.S. passport. A photo ID and proof of U.S. citizenship; such as a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or expired U.S. passport are also accepted. Canada does not require U.S. citizens to obtain visas for visits up to 180 days. U.S. citizens with a criminal record (including a DWI charge) may be denied entry to Canada or, may be asked to leave Canada. U.S. citizens can apply for a waiver of exclusion and must allow several weeks for processing and pay the required fee. For further information on entry requirements, contact the Embassy of Canada at 202-682-1740 or, visit their web site" http://www.canadianembassy.org "Please Note: By January 1, 2008, all travelers to and from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, the Caribbean and Panama will be required to have a passport or other secure, accepted document to enter or re-enter the U.S. This requirement is being implemented in two phases: On December 31, 2006, the requirement applies to all air and sea travel. On December 31, 2007, the requirement applies to all land border crossings, in addition to air and sea travel. All U.S. citizens, regardless of age, will need a passport or other secure, accepted document to enter or return to the U.S." The Hermantown (MN) Walmart does have some/most of their Christmas village out. In my opinion there is not much to talk about. That being said, if you are looking for a cute little sliding hill with about five kids on it, they have one that ain't bad. Not expensive (non-animated) and Linda liked it. There is also a boat/restaurant that looks like it has possibilities. That was under $20.00. According to their 'shelf plan' there are a few things left to bring out - I'll let you know what I find. Just
so you know! August 30, 2007 At the same Hermantown Walmart store they did have a couple of Christmas ornaments that we are probably going to buy. For sure we will have the five 'person' pit crew as an addition for our Dept 56 Ice Racing animated track. They are perfect!. They come as the crews for Kasey Kahne, Jeff Gordon, Jimmy Johnson, Tony Stewart, Dale Earnhardt and Dale Earnhardt Jr. I saw three versions: 'little people,' snowmen and monkeys. Not sure if all are available for each driver. We will opt for the little people - good look and nice size. Cost? $5.97 for a set of five. - They also have some new Coca Cola ornaments, five pack for $5.97. Small polar bears(?) doing winter things, i.e., snow boarding, snowmen, riding on ice, etc. They look like they belong at the North Pole. Linda and I visited Menard's in Superior (WI) today. They do have their Lemax Halloween available. The West Duluth store still has the most variety. All three of our local Menard's have several of the Halloween houses from last year in a different place than the 'new' stuff.' If you are looking for the 'Fun House,' or a couple of others, you will want to look around. Still looking for some Homies from Series #10. If anyone sees them, please let me know. Just
so you know! August 28, 2007 Jeep Green sent me a reminder of Glow in the Dark Spray that is a nice touch for any Halloween display. It is a washable spray, removable with soap and water. This is the info from the back of the can: "Glow in the Dark Spray will glow in the dark after it has been charged by exposure to a bright light source. Over time, the glow effect will fade. Recharge by re-exposure to light. Glow in the Dark spray glows in black light too. Do not spray on painted or papered walls and ceilings". These are the words she used to describe the product: " I use the Glow in the Dark Spray or anything similar found in craft stores, Walmart, K Mart, etc. This spray adds an extra glow to a spooky display. I like to use it on s | |