Our wallets are in some serious pain right about now. The economy being in the crapper was the first hit to our budgets. Then, here comes the holidays-and there’s alot of ‘em- Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, New Year’s, Valentines Day- with the final knockout punch. Things don’t have to get so ugly though. There are plenty of simple ways to save money on everyday things, so you can splurge a little more on gifts, parties and other seasonal festivities.

The best, no-brainer way to save big is to be a “member.” Just about every place of business nowadays has some type of rewards program or discount card from nail salons to grocery stores. With some rewards clubs it can even literally pay to be a member. That’s why, this week PLRG is reserved for “Members Only” (not actually, but I like saying it).

We’ll be talking all about the different discount programs, clubs and ways to save in Chicagoland. I bet you had no idea what good deals you can score with a Public Library Card, or that being in between jobs-and without health insurance- doesn’t mean you can’t afford your prescriptions. We’ve also got you covered on the fashion front with sales this week at Ideeli.com (which really is members only, but we can get you in. Just use invite code: poorlittlerichgirls). All you have to do is sit back, relax and reap the rewards.

Lacey Brenly

Editor in Chief