The Propeller – Deals, Donations, and a Drama-Free Year-End – 11-17-2024

When you think of vending machines, snacks, sodas, and candy probably come to mind and not chickens, goats or textbooks. But what if a vending machine could offer a way to give back instead? Enter The Giving Machine, a unique concept that turns a typical transaction into an opportunity to help others.

The Giving Machine is a special kind of vending machine that dispenses charity instead of products. Located in various cities around the world (There is one nearby me in Columbus, Ohio this year along with dozens of other cities in the US), it allows people to make donations directly to local and international charities. Instead of selecting a snack, you might buy a pair of shoes for a child in need, a meal for a family, or even contribute to building a water well in a developing country.

Here’s how it works:

1. You approach the machine and browse through a selection of charitable items, each with a set donation amount.
2. You make your choice, swipe your credit card, and instantly make a difference.
3. A symbolic card or receipt pops out to show what you’ve donated.

What’s great about The Giving Machine is its simplicity and the tangible way it connects people to giving. You get to see exactly where your donation is going and what it will be used for. This approach to charitable giving was pioneered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as part of their “Light the World” campaign, which aims to inspire acts of kindness throughout the holiday season.

Why It Matters

The Giving Machine taps into the spirit of generosity, especially during the holidays, when people are often looking for meaningful ways to give back. It’s a creative and visible reminder that making a difference can be as simple as swiping your card.

So next time you see one of these bright red machines, consider stopping by. A small purchase could make a big impact in someone else’s life. It’s an easy way to be part of something bigger and to help light the world, one donation at a time.

To find out where one of these Giving Machines is located near you, visit: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/comeuntochrist/light-the-world/giving-machines

The holiday shopping season is upon us, and if you’re looking to snag some amazing deals, it’s time to get your tech game on! Before you dive headfirst into the chaos of online sales and virtual carts, check out these tips to shop smarter (and have a little fun while you’re at it).

1. Set Up Price Alerts—Let the Deals Come to You
Why spend hours scouring the internet when you can let the deals come to you? Use price tracking tools like Honey, CamelCamelCamel, or Keepa. These apps monitor prices on sites like Amazon and notify you when the item you’ve been eyeing drops in price. It’s like having your own personal shopping assistant, minus the awkward small talk.

2. Compare Prices Instantly with Your Phone
Before you hit that “Buy Now” button, make sure you’re actually getting the best deal. Apps like ShopSavvy and Google Shopping allow you to scan barcodes or search products to instantly compare prices across multiple retailers. It’s perfect for those moments when you’re standing in a store, debating whether that 50% off deal is really as good as it seems.

3. Score Deals on Social Media
If you’re not following your favorite brands on social media, you’re missing out! Many retailers post exclusive deals, flash sales, and discount codes on their Instagram, Facebook, or X (formerly Twitter) accounts. Plus, if you sign up for their email newsletters, you’ll often get a welcome coupon—just in time for the holidays.

4. Shop in Incognito Mode
Did you know websites can track your browsing habits and sometimes raise prices based on your search history? Avoid this sneaky tactic by shopping in incognito mode or using a private browser window. This way, you’re more likely to see the lowest prices available, especially if you’ve been eyeing that new gadget all week.

5. The Best Places to Find Deals: Know Where to Click
When it comes to finding the hottest deals, you need to know where to look. Here are some top spots to check:

Amazon: Their Lightning Deals and “Deal of the Day” sections can offer huge savings, but act fast—these deals disappear quickly.  Use this special secret link to get the best deals:  https://amzn.to/3UWzNEW  

Best Buy: Known for great tech discounts, especially on TVs, laptops, and smart home gadgets. Keep an eye on their “Top Deals” section.

Walmart: From video games to kitchen gadgets, Walmart’s online sales often rival Amazon’s. Their “Rollbacks” section is worth a look.

eBay: For the bargain hunter who loves the thrill of the chase, eBay offers competitive prices on everything from electronics to collectibles, with special holiday sales and discounts.

Rakuten & RetailMeNot: These sites offer cashback on your purchases and can provide extra coupons for savings. It’s like getting paid to shop—who could resist that?

A Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget Cyber Monday!

If you’re not a fan of Black Friday madness, wait for Cyber Monday—the ultimate online shopping day. It’s a treasure trove of deals across every category, from tech to toys, all from the comfort of your couch (no elbows needed).

Happy holiday shopping! May your Wi-Fi be strong, your deals be plentiful, and your gifts be the talk of the season!