Tough Times

In Stephen Sondheim’s masterpiece “Sweeney Todd” there is an initial meeting between the barber, Sweeney, and pie shop owner Mrs. Lovett that paints a picture of just how bad times can be. Each laments, through song of course, of the troubled times that lay ahead. Each in their own disturbed way attempts to top one another as to whose plight is worse. Through this very masterfully written show, a plot is hatched in which the two decide to embark on a new business, which includes the traditional murdering of people who have wronged them, chopping them up and using them as pie filling. Suddenly Mrs. Lovett’s pie shop is a thriving business and her fortunes have changed. Or so it seems.

Many of us today around the country may very much feel like Sweeney and Mrs. Lovett. I am fairly certain that everyone knows someone who has either directly or indirectly been affected by our current national financial situation. Some call it a recession, while others call it a depression, but no matter how you describe it these are some desperate times indeed, Mrs. Lovett.

With many Americans watching every penny and an uncertainty of just what our financial futures are it can all be too much to deal with. I, regardless of whether times are great or not-so, have been somewhat of a frugal spender. Some might say a penny pincher or a tight wad, but I could never understand paying double for something that I can get down the street for so much less. This exercise in frugality has served me well, even more so during this current downswing. That is why I have decided to share with you some of the bargains to be had around the valley.

For starters many of u like to go out to eat, especially us bears. The thing to remember that when going out to eat is that it is usually more of a social event than just plain eating. And while there is little substitute for delicious cuisine, sometimes the company you keep is more important. Many of the restaurants in town have discounted coupons, or offer discounts to full time residents. A great and delicious bargain for on 99 cents is the appropriately titles 99 cents burger at the Yellow Basket in Cat City. If you have guests visiting the buffet at the Spa Casino is a bargain and has a nice ambience. If just wanting to meet up with friends and have a little something, coffee and a nosh at Koffi is not only inexpensive, it is a true slice of Palm Springs culture.

If you are looking for some inexpensive things to do besides eat, try these on for size. On Thursday nights from 4-8 The Palm Springs Art Museum is open and free to the public. The museum is currently hosting a Mapplethorpe exhibit, and has recently been renovated to be a PS jewel. Besides the museum on Thursdays, there is of course the Street Fair, which is fun to browse and meet up with old friends.

Another fun thing to do is to go on a photo safari. Palm Springs is known worldwide for its architecture and natural beauty. Carry your camera around and just snap some shots. You will see PS in a way that you may not have before. Fun places to shoot are The Moorten’s Botanical Garden which is under $5, or try one of our many free hiking trails.

For those wanting to lay out by the pool, and don’t have one, Paul, the owner of the Desert Bear, allows well behaved visitors to come soak up some sun at the hotel for free. Just bring your own towels and snacks, and be polite, and respectful of hotel guest.

Moviegoers should know that the Mary Pickford has matinee prices up 6 o’clock every day of the week, and the Camelot has a special nighttime matinee for shows after 8pm.

Well I have to get back to baking my pies now, but I hope these tips make things a little more fun at least. If you have any saving tips let me know, and I will share them here in another money saving article.