Ladies’ Night at Mark’s – save 20% and support the Breast Cancer Society of Canada

What?

If you’ve seen any of the blog posts or tweets about the spring #Marksover events, you probably already know Mark’s isn’t just for men, industrial wear or health care workers’ uniforms. There are lots innovative and fashionable items for women. (I first stumbled upon Mark’s women’s collection when shopping for my teen son last summer.)

This Thursday night, all regular and sales priced items will be 20% off with $5 from every minimum purchase of $65 or more going to the Breast Cancer Society of Canada. So far their 8-year partnership has helped raise more than $1 million for the fight against breast cancer.

So, if you’re curious about Mark’s or a regular customer, Thursday’s a great time to visit, save and help do some good.

When?

Thurs., May 6, 2010

5:00 p.m.-closing (some stores open until 11 p.m., check your local store for hours)


Where?

At Mark’s and Mark’s Work Wearhouse stores across Canada.
Find a store near you.



Let us know what you get if you go.

Related articles by Zemanta

• Bargainista interviews Edmoure Ralph
• Lida Baday Sample Sale - May 8
  
• Rita Tesolin Spring Inventory Sale
  

OPI Pink of Hearts 2009

By now, everyone has probably seen an onslaught of pink products this month – you can buy practically everything in pink this month and with a portion of sales going to various breast cancer charities.

OPI goes about donating to the cause in an interesting way. OPI is transparent about the amount of money they are donating and where it goes:
• $5,000 to Rethink Breast Cancer in Canada; and,
• $25,000 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure in the United States.

In return, OPI hopes customers will support their efforts by purchasing OPI Pink of Hearts – an exclusive shade of light pink polish produced specifically in honour of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Although it’s only supposed to be available in October at a professional salon near you and it sells out quickly, I’ve also seen it hanging around a bit longer so, it may not be too late.

Editor’s note:
I made a promise to you I didn’t keep. I said I’d publish one pink blog post every week during this month but I ended up skipping last week. Family first as they say but that’s not to say I’ll cut my weekly pink posts short. Instead, I’ll keep them running into October because like other diseases, breast cancer isn’t something limited to one month a year.

I mentioned I’d be sharing details about a contest at divine.ca, online destination for Canadian women. Unfortunately, it’s over now and my contact left the company during the program – sorry folks.

On the move for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

For long-time readers, pink posts on Bargainista won`t be anything new. My mother battled breast cancer and I`ve had several friends who have faced the battle too. From time-to-time I've blogged about Breast Cancer fundraising initiatives.

On Monday, I learned my friend Andrea was diagnosed with breast cancer. For those of you who think breast cancer is a disease affecting mostly older women, think again. Andrea like so many of you reading this blog, is a wife and mother with two young children. She has also made a huge contribution to children's literacy and the podcasting community. Andrea is forging ahead, staying positive and already thinking like a survivor.

In honour of Andrea, I will be writing one pink post a week throughout this month and highlighting opportunities for you to support the cause. I`ll do my best to showcase some of the more interesting initiatives - feel free to send me your ideas too.

Last year, I did some work with rethink breast cancer helping spread the word about BreastFest Film Festival last year. rethink is an incredible organization because it helps raise awareness about the importance of breast health for younger women and provides support for women with early-onset breast cancer and their families. (Growing up as a child who`s mother had the disease, I know life would have been much different had rethink been around at the time. You can check out these pink products with a portion of proceeds going to rethink this year.

Clutter for the Cure/Yard Sale for the Cure Fights Cancer

What?
Clutter for the Cure/Yard Sale for the Cure Fights Cancer
Households across Canada will be hosting yard sales with proceeds benefiting the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation

When?
Sat., May 31 – all day

Where?
Across Canada

For information about registering or volunteering visit: www.yardsaleforthecure.com

Help fight breast cancer and be part of another social media miracle

If you didn’t catch my earlier post about Keith Burtis’ social miracle, you really should read it … now.

Since then, Keith proposed to Michelle and he said “Yes”.

I met them both the next day and they are as lovely as their legend. Keith made a beautiful sushi set for my sister. He called it “The Prosperity Set” and wrote a wonderful story describing his inspiration.

And now he’s at it again. Keith has partnered with Tommy Vallier and Dave Fleet to help Dave raise money to fight breast cancer at Princess Margaret Hospital. Dave is running the Boston Marathon next month and trying to raise at least $3,000.

Keith is creating a special work of art to be auctioned off on Thursday, March 27, to the highest bidder, with all proceeds going to Dave Fleet’s fundraising efforts.

So there you have it, you can be part of another social miracle either by participating in the auction or sponsoring Dave Fleet directly.

Note: The auction begins on Tuesday, March 25 at 9 a.m. EST and ends on Thursday, March 27 at 9 p.m. EST. I’ll add a link to the auction webpage as soon as it’s available.

Tip of the Week – get connected with ooVoo

This week I had the pleasure of sitting down and meeting a bunch of new friends from across North America and chatting face-to-face without spending a dime. All I needed was my computer, a web cam and mic.

Within seconds we were all connected and having interesting conversations. In fact, I could meet with five other people at the same time. No long-distance fees either. I used ooVoo – a cool new video conferencing desktop software application I downloaded for free!

I’ve already started thinking about tons of interesting ways to use ooVoo professionally and personally. Like connecting with my family, friends and readers anywhere in the world – without any long-distance fees! We can even share photos and other files during our video or text chats.

So what’s the downside?
I can only think of 2 cons:
• The technology is a bit buggy. I’m chalking it up to growing pains; and,
• I need to put on my make-up and brush my hair before using ooVoo. ;)

How did I learn about ooVoo in the first place?
Susan Reynolds gave me a heads-up about a fabulous awareness campaign brining high-profile bloggers together with members of their communities called My ooVoo Day. In return for their participation, ooVoo contributed $1,500 to the Frozen Pea Fund (or another charity of the blogger’s choice).

Interested in attending My ooVoo Day?
There are still some sesssions, check the schedule.

My connections
“Every Dot Connects/Case Notes from the Artsy Asylum: From Connections to Community: How Online Relationships Enrich Our Lives,” hosted by Connie Reece and Susan Reynolds, was my first session. Connie founded the Frozen Pea Fund in Susan’s honour. I also had the pleasure of meeting Adele McAlear and Jon Swanson. It was wonderful wishing Susan a happy birthday - LIVE!
Josesph Jaffe (from the crayon – the company spearheading the My ooVoo Day event on behalf of their client) added two new sessions. I was fortunate to snag a spot and persuaded Connie Crosby to join me. Topic: “Besides getting to know you all, anything to do with Jaffe Juice, Life After the 30-Second Spot or Join the Conversation”. Other participants were Mitch Canter (you can catch the full recording here), Sherman Hu and Allen Mostow. It was incredible and the session lasted a whopping 35 minutes and I’m sure we’ll all connect here again.

So why am I telling you all this? I want to connect with you on ooVoo too. If you’re interested let me know and we can set something up after PodCamp Toronto.

Weekly wish - sponsorship

You may already know I’m participating in the Weekend to End Breast Cancer on September 8 and 9. I need at least one new pair of running shoes. A new outfit or two would also be nice. I’m particularly concerned about the shoes because I have a tough time finding comfortable ones that fit.

For the last several years, women (and men) from all over the province converge in Toronto (and six other Canadian cities) and walk 60km over two days. They must raise at least $2,000 in sponsorships and pay an entry fee in order to participate, not to mention the countless hours they spend training for the event.

Sounds like a great sponsorship opportunity to me. Only I’ve never seen any corporate sponsors actually sponsoring individual participants or teams. Have you?

So, if you’re reading this, I wear a size 9 (sometimes 9.5). If your shoes fit, I’ll wear them. I’ll also wear your clothes and acccessories, heck I’ll even paint a big swoosh across my forehead if you’ll sponsor me. In exchange, I’ll let all my readers know. I’ll wear your stuff and promote your brand each and every time I practice and maybe some other times too.

Let me know if you’re interested. You know where to find me. ; )

And to all of you reading the blog, you’re welcome to sponsor me too!

Technorati tags: Nike swoosh, running shoes, sponsorship, walking, The Weekend to End Breast Cancer, training

Super Cities Walk for MS; Ding dong, Avon calling

I’ve worked with Giselle for five years. She’s a spunky go-getter who excels in everything she does, a real people person.

Next month for the fourth year in a row, Giselle is participating in the Super Cities Walk for MS. Last year she raised $5,200 and this year she’s trying to raise $10,000. You can help her reach her goal by sponsoring her now.

Giselle is also an Avon sales rep. on the side. If you’re going to buy Avon and want the best service, e-mail Giselle. She’s on the ball. She’s often giving away great gifts with purchase, no matter how big or small. And service is always with a smile! I’m thinking of buying some Foot Works foot care goodies.

In addition to cosmetics and gift items, Avon gives back to the community. It recently launched the Hello Tomorrow Fund. From April-September, Avon will recognize one individual each month who has helped empower woman and make a difference for people who have been touched by the breast cancer, with a $5,000 reward.

Think it’s time you consider learning more about Avon? Contact Giselle and see for yourself. The next deadline for orders is April 10.

Technorati tags: Avon, breast cancer, cosmetics, fundraising, Hello Tomorrow Fund, multiple sclerosis, Super Cities Walk for MS

Jeanne Lottie - spring sample sale

Jeanne Lottie is having a sale and supporting Princess Margaret Hospital at the same time!

You won’t want to miss this one. Print this ad, take it with you and save the tax too:


What?
Jeanne Lottie spring sample sale
Save 80% shoes, accessories and bags

Where?
Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites
Melville Rm, lower lobby level
7085 Woodbine Ave. (map)
Markham

When?
Mar. 24 & Mar. 25: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Technorati tags: accessories, handbags, Jeanne Lottie, purses, shoes, sales, shopping

F.L.A.G. sale extended

UPDATE: The sale has been extended until Sunday, March 11 - Yipee!

What?
F.L.A.G. Accessories is having a 4-day moving sale
• accessories
• designer clothing
• handbags
• outerwear

brands:
• Soul Edge
• Red Soul Urban Wear
• Red Tango Clothing & Accessories
• F.L.A.G. Accessories

Why?
• Everything is $10 or less
• F.L.A.G. is a supporter of Fashion Targets Breast Cancer (they sell RETHINK Breast Cancer merchandise).

Where?
16 Eugene St. (map)
Toronto

When?
Mar. 9: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Mar. 10: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Mar. 11: noon-5 p.m.

Technorati tags: accessories, breast cancer, Fashion Targets Breast Cancer, F.L.A.G. Accessories, RETHINK Breast Cancer, sales, shopping

F.L.A.G. Accessories 4-day sale

What?
F.L.A.G. Accessories is having a 4-day moving sale
• accessories
• designer clothing
• handbags
• outerwear

brands:
• Soul Edge
• Red Soul Urban Wear
• Red Tango Clothing & Accessories
• F.L.A.G. Accessories

Why?
• Everything is $10 or less
• F.L.A.G. is a supporter of Fashion Targets Breast Cancer (they sell RETHINK Breast Cancer merchandise).

Where?
16 Eugene St. (map)
Toronto

When?
Mar. 1-2: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Mar. 3 - 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Mar. 4 - noon-5 p.m.

Technorati tags: accessories, breast cancer, Fashion Targets Breast Cancer, F.L.A.G. Accessories, RETHINK Breast Cancer, sales, shopping

Sad day

Actually, it's been a very sad week.

Another mom in the neighbourhood died of breast cancer on Monday. She left behind her three young children. The last time I saw her was at a school concert in December. She'd just received bad news but nothing was going to get in the way of her watching her sons perform. She spent the evening smiling from ear-to-ear.

Her obituary was in the paper today - I knew she was a fighter but hadn't realized how much of one she'd been. I'm going to her memorial tomorrow.

A close friend of mine is fighting breast cancer now. Tonight we shared some tears.

Another friend just had surgery to prevent it from coming back.

My mom died of breast cancer when she was only 37 - I was 15; my sister was 12.

Help me help make a difference and together we can make breast cancer history!

I'm participating in The Weekend to End Breast Cancer benefiting Princess Margaret Hospital. I will be walking 79,200 steps (60 km). I did it in 2004 and I'm determined to do it again but I can't do it alone.

Please support my journey and together we'll have fewer sad days. : )

Thank you.

Technorati tags: breast cancer, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, fundraising, Princess Margaret Hospital, Weekend to End Breast Cancer, walking

Pink link

As Breast Cancer Awareness Month comes to a close, I hope you don't mind indulging me by reading this personal request.

I'm promoting my pet "pink" item and asking you to support my efforts in bringing us 79,200 steps closer to a cure.

Next September, for the second time (I walked in 2004), I will be walking 60km in the Weekend to End Breast Cancer to Princess Margaret Hospital. I can't do it alone. I need your help in raising $2,000 so I can participate.

Be among the first to sponsor me for this wonderful event. (I know, me bad, I haven't personalized my web page yet. Stay tuned.)

Thank you,

Eden

P.S. If you like the cool pin above, buy it and support The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

Technorati tags: breast cancer, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, fundraising, Princess Margaret Hospital, Weekend to End Breast Cancer, walking

Pink stink?

I stumbled upon a Ron White – The Foot Shoppe the other day. Perhaps it was the chocolate brown tee with pink ribbon that caught my eye. If you've been reading Bargainista for awhile, you should know how supportive I am of pink products but something about this bothered me.

Read more...


Technorati tags: advertising, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, fashion, marketing, pink ribbon campaign, PR, publicity

30 minutes and free

Six weeks ago I joined Curves. I haven't changed my eating habits one bit and I've still lost some pounds and inches. I love having a regular workout routine but honestly, I hate exercising. Between work and home, I don't have a lot of time for the gym either.

At Curves I can do a complete workout in just over 30 minutes. I'm close enough to home that I can drive there in five minutes and don't have to use communal shower. On Saturdays, I walk there (3km) with my friend Teri for that extra bit of calorie burning.

Pink thing - donate the initiation fee
Local Curves locations are fundraising to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Join this week and the initiation fee (up to $199) is free ... instead pay a minimum of $20 or more and Curves will include it in their donation to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. Update: I understand you can donate $20 or more in lieu of the initiation fee, to a breast cancer charity of your choice.

Free thing
Just in case you're commitment shy, here's a guest pass:


Technorati Tags: Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, Curves

Pink slip

This month, Nine West is donating 9% of Canadian sales of their "blush" pink Luvmylats ballerina shoes to Rethink Breast Cancer in support Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For $90 and you'll get a cute matching pouch, a Schick Quattro razor (it's a pretty good little razor, my current razor de jour) and a pamphlet outlining a new breast self-exam.

Just tell me one thing, why doesn't ninewest.ca have any mention about this promotion on their website, especially when ninewest.com does?

Technorati tags: Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Luvmyflats, Nine West, Rethink Breast Cancer, Schick Quattro

Pink Plaid Cookbook

My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 32. I was young and I never really understood when people commented about her bravery.

As an adult, I have met many women who are brave. Thanks to greater awareness, early diagnosis, medical research and better treatment, they are here with us today.

One such friend is Laura Ciarello. Laura was only 36 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Today, with a supportive husband and two beautiful young daughters, she is a survivor. You can read more about her story in the Better Homes and Gardens Special Edition Pink Plaid Cookbook ($26.95). Proceeds from the sale of each book go to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation.

Think Pink!

Holt Renfrew is teaming up with Estée Lauder again this year to raise money and awareness breast cancer research in Canada.

Buy the awesome Limited Edition Holt Renfrew Private Brand cashmere tee for $98. Holt Renfrew will donate 100% of the net proceeds to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (see the Elizabeth Hurley wearing last year's tee in the photo.) What a steal! This year they've designed a turtleneck tee in a different shade of pink. While you're there, look for lots of other "pink" stuff in the cosmetics dept. I'm off to Yorkdale to buy mine today! See you there!

Note: In support of Breast Cancer Awareness month Bargainista will be plugging all kinds of great pink products throughout October. E-mail me with your "pink" finds. A percentage of every purchase you make will help us get one step closer to a cure.