Sunday, March 27, 2011

Send The Very Best With KeyRingThing & Hallmark

With Spring having finally made an appearance, what might be called "The Celebration Season" is upon us. First Communions, Confirmations, Graduations, Passover, Easter, Baptisms and Christenings--all events to be marked with some good wishes (and the occasional check). Let your KeyRingThing card make shopping easier at the Hallmark Gold Crown store nearest you.


Hallmark has been a great American company for more than 100 years and a treasure trove of gifts for any occasion can be found at your local store. Ornaments capturing the imprint of a newborn's hand or a precious silver frame holding a christening announcement...Digital scrapbooks to which you add your own photos, music, and words to commemorate a special Easter dinner or Passover Seder with the family...a personalized photo plate, decked out with mortar boards for the graduate...True to the long-standing motto, "When you care enough to send the very best, choose Hallmark."

Become a member of the Hallmark Crown Rewards Program and shopping gets even better. Joining is free and you gain rewards and coupons with every purchase. Here's some particulars about the program:

  • Shopping Rewards
    During select months, you'll receive a Shopping Rewards coupon to use on products throughout your Hallmark Gold Crown store.
  • More Bonus Points
    The higher your level, the more Bonus Points you get for every card you buy. When you've reached a higher level within a calendar year, you'll enjoy more rewards the following year. A higher level means even more rewards.
Crown Rewards Program Member Levels:

Plan Name

Bonus Points

Shopping Rewards

SILVER

Spend $100.00 - $199.99

or buy 20-29 cards

10 with every card you buy

in stores

1 Silver Shopping Reward

GOLD

Spend $200.00 - $299.99

or buy 30-49 cards

15 with every card you buy

in stores

2 Gold Shopping Rewards

PLATINUM

Spend $300.00+

or buy 50+ cards

20 with every card you buy

in stores

3 Platinum Shopping Rewards

To join and see program terms and conditions, visit Hallmark.com.

Hallmark has been the author of some of the most memorable messages of your life. Now let them help you pass along some heartfelt congratulations to a young person you know who is embarking on their future. Here's a little Hallmark help:

The Right Words To Congratulate A Grad

It's more than a cap, gown or diploma. Graduation is a milestone that marks a fresh phase of life. Whether your grad is 12, 18, 22 or 42, this major accomplishment deserves a huge pat on the back! Here are a few easy ways to make your words of congrats—whether written in a card or spoken in a toast—extra memorable.

Commemorate the noteworthy event
Cards are so much more meaningful when they include a personal message. There are six basic steps to putting together a scrapbook-worthy congratulatory note.

  1. Greet the grad. Be as formal as your relationship. (Close enough to share a nickname? Use it!)
  2. Express your congratulations clearly. This is the first sentence of your note, so be straightforward, yet warm.
  3. React to the news. Let the grad know how you felt when you received the announcement in the mail.
  4. Compliment & look ahead. Always knew the grad could do it? This is the time to say so! Take a few sentences to make the note feel extra personal.
  5. Restate your congratulations. Because, truly, you just can't say it enough.
  6. Give your regards. A "sincerely" makes for a good general closing, but consider warmer options for a closer relationship.

I'll toast to that!
A great congratulatory speech is constructed similarly to a memorable note. But toasts come with the added benefit of fewer space and time restraints. So take an extra moment to share anecdotes that the grad—and party guests—will appreciate, from humorous to heartfelt. Props are encouraged! So bring your art major-to-
be's very first refrigerator door creation, or recall a story about the law student's earliest attempts at talking his way into an extra helping of dessert.

Add the Hallmark Crown Rewards barcode to your KeyRingThing card, freeing up your wallet, and then get to your local Hallmark store and start shopping. Here are some special offers available for a limited time:

Easter


Save $15

Totally Ticklish Duck

$1495

with each purchase of three Hallmark cards (regularly $29.95). Press this little duck's foot to hear her sing. She won't stop until she's tickled under her wings—then her song changes to giggles. Valid through 4/24/11


Save $15

"Don't Pull My Ears!" Donald Duck

$1495

with each purchase of three Hallmark cards (regularly $29.95). Back by popular demand! Donald Duck sings a song and flaps his arms. But pick him up by the ears and he'll move his arms faster as he squawks "Hey! Put me down!" Valid through 4/24/11


Tossed Eggs Gift Bag

$299

with any purchase (regularly $3.99). This colorful gift bag is perfect for holding just about any Easter surprise. Valid through 4/24/11

Everyday


Free Watson and the Case of the Sneaky Stealer Book

with purchase of Watson Raccoon Interactive Story Buddy (regularly $9.95). This lovable raccoon will steal your heart! Read his adventure aloud and he'll chime in with his own responses. While supplies last.


Free Cooper's Big Bear Hug Book

with purchase of Cooper Interactive Story Buddy(regularly $9.95). Story time just got a lot more fun! Read this story aloud with your little one and Cooper will chime in with his own responses. While supplies last.


Hallmark Roll Wrap

$399 each or two for $5.99. Stock up on colorful roll wrap perfect or just about any occasion.


Let KeyRingThing and Hallmark's Crown Reward Club make this "Celebration Season" a truly memorable one.


Friday, March 11, 2011

Spring Break from Southwest Airlines and KeyRingThing

Fuel prices have gone up (thanks a lot, Khadafi) but you can still get some cheaper airfares to great locations for your Spring Break or Easter travel (it's late this year) if you use your KeyRingThing card and load it with some frequent flier programs like those from Southwest Airlines.

We know Southwest has undergone a lot of changes lately, so here's the latest info so you can make the most of your new Rapids Rewards membership and escape to warmer climes this spring:
Rapids Rewards New Membership Offers:
Unlimited Reward Seats: If there is a seat available, you can redeem your points for it.
No Blackout Dates: Blackout dates-banished. Your choices and possibilities are now open.
Points Don't Expire: Plan your getaway for next week or next year. Your points stay "fresh".
Earn Points With Every Dollar: The fare determines the number of points earned (& earn points for every dollar spent with our Partners.)
No Change Fee/Bags Fly Free: With some restrictions, you may change your flight for no charge and your first two bags may fly free.
Redeem for International Flights: If you get a Rapid Rewards Credit Card too, you can redeem points for international flights, hotels, car rentals and more.

Some Q&A About the changes:

How do I enroll in Rapid Rewards? The easiest way to enroll in Rapid Rewards is through the Rapid Rewards section of southwest.com. Quick and easy screens will walk you through the enrollment process. Once you complete enrollment, your account number will appear on the screen. Print this screen to start using it to receive points for flights and Partner use. It's that simple.

As an existing member of the Rapid Rewards program, do I need to do anything to enroll in the new program? All active Rapid Rewards Members will continue to be active Members in the new program and will not be required to re-enroll. You will retain the same account number in the new program. Additionally, if you have an online account, you will maintain your same login credentials.

What happens to my existing Rapid Rewards unused credits from the old program? If you have a credit balance in your account prior to the conversion to the new program, you will continue to see your credits in your account. Credits will maintain their original expiration date. You will have the one-time options to convert points earned in the new program back into credits from the old program at a rate of 1,200 points (= 1 credit) in order to reach a total of 16 credits and redeem them for a Standard Award.

How many points per dollar does it cost to redeem for a ticket? The number of points required to redeem for a free flight is based on which fare product is purchased. The number of points required for redemption is based on the advertised fare for a ticket. See the Redemption Rate chart at southwest.com.

Can I combine points and cash for a reservation? No.

Are there any inventory restrictions in the new program for points? No. Points may be redeemed for any class of service. If a seat is available, it can be redeemed for points.

Can I buy points? Yes, but purchased must be made with a credit card. Points are offered in blocks of 1,000 with a minimum purchase of 2,000 and a maximum o 40,000. Each 1,000 point block costs $25.

What Happened to My Existing Credits? Your credits are safe and secure and you can still use then toward a new flight. Simply convert enough credits from the old program (1200 points=1 credit) to reach 16 credits (enough for a Standard Award.)

What About My Existing Rewards? If you already have an award, hang on to it. You can still use it. Nothing's changed.

Exciting News:
For those who had A-List or Companion Pass members status from the old program: On March 1st your status carried over into the new program and we invented a whole new level of special recognition for you...A-List Preferred, In addition to the A-List benefits, you'll get Priority Check-in and Security Lane Access also.

And to help you get the best deal on a getaway, be sure to enter to take advantage of these two fabulous offers.Nationwide Sale on Southwest Vacations!

Spring into Summer and save up to $100 nationwide in exciting places including; Vegas, Orlando, Southern California, Florida beaches, & more. Plus, receive up to two show tickets at select Vegas resorts. Hurry! With discounts this low, supplies won't last.Win A Dream Vacation To Charleston

Soak up the southern charm of Charleston, South Carolina! There's something for everyone in this beautiful, historic city. Enter for a chance to win the ultimate vacation, and while you're at it, plan your own getaway. Don't miss out on great hotel offers, Southwest Vacations packages, cruise offers, & rental car deals!


Be sure also to sign up for Rapid Rewards emails--the easy way to receive all the latest news, information, and promotional offers from Southwest Airlines® Rapid Rewards and the Rapids Reward report--which gives you personalized account info, news and ways to maximize your membership.

More details on all of the above at southwest.com.


Whether you are headed to New Orleans or Houston or Phoenix, enjoy the balmy breezes thanks to the new Rapid Rewards program from Southwest Airlines. And don't forget to pack your KeyRingThing card and enjoy your Spring Break with an uncluttered wallet.

Monday, March 7, 2011

Itching for Spring? KeyRingThing Can Help

Snow, slush, ice, hail, thunder, rain, flooding-from the worst weather Chicago has ever known to deep freezes all the way to South Florida, this winter has kicked our collective rear ends. If the seemingly endless season is getting you down, beat cabin fever by planning a getaway to someplace that's already warmer. Get a membership in one of the frequent flier programs, put the bar code on your KeyRingThing card (freeing up your wallet for more vacation cash-or perhaps your passport?) and hop a flight. As Jimmy Buffet sang, "Changes in latitudes" can work wonders. Here we tell you a bit about some changes in and offers for members of one of the most popular frequent flier programs, Delta SkyMiles-in the company's own words:


More Benefits, More Choices

The SkyMiles program is a world-class loyalty program that's by your side wherever you're going. Plus, we reward our members with great benefits. For example, we are the only major U.S. airline without mileage expiration, so you can fly with us and redeem miles on your terms and timeframe. And for those of you who travel more than most-our Medallion members-we provide elite benefits and privileges that recognize your time spent with us. It costs nothing to join and you can start earning miles right away. Domestic award flights begin at 25,000 miles. You can also buy miles to make up enough for a reward and now in March-you get a 50% bonus for every mile you purchase!


After 25,000 qualifying segments earned, you become a Medallion member. Here are some of the exciting benefits you'll enjoy as a Medallion member: preferred seats, priority boarding, complimentary upgrades, waived baggage fees, SkyTeam lounge access. Also Medallion members may choose one benefit upon qualifying for Platinum Medallion status and two benefits upon qualifying for Diamond Medallion status. Choices include Delta Sky Club One-Day passes, Medallion status to gift to a friend, bonus miles for you or your favorite charity, Systemwide Upgrades, and more. At the core of our program is the ability for members to earn, maintain and redeem miles. Going forward, we are committed to delivering the SkyMiles experience you expect and the benefits you've earned. But here's...


What is happening now:

Mileage Expiration: Effective January 1, 2011, we eliminated our mileage expiration policy so you can earn and redeem miles without worrying if and when your miles will expire.

SkyTeam Elite Plus Status for Gold Medallions: Effective March 1, 2011, Gold Medallions will receive SkyTeam Elite Plus status when flying internationally on our SkyTeam partner airlines.

Benefits include:

Complimentary access to more than 200 SkyTeam partner lounges worldwide including Delta Sky Club

A guaranteed Economy Class reservation on any SkyTeam long-haul flight when purchasing a full-fare Economy Class ticket.

Priority Baggage Handling

Award Redemption Fees: We no longer charge Award Ticket redemption fees, even last-minute bookings.

Preferred Seats: Preferred Seats are sometimes not available when booking a last-minute ticket. Thus, we have expanded the number of Preferred Economy Seats on all Delta and Delta Connection flights by up to 40% to ensure our most loyal customers receive the best seats.

Systemwide Upgrade Improvements:

Certificates are available for Diamond and Platinum Medallion members to select as a Choice Benefit gift. Systemwide Upgrades have been improved so when redeeming on any Delta flight, you can always wait list for an upgrade if it is not available at time of booking. If you do not clear prior to departure, you will now be automatically added to the standby list. You will automatically clear for a upgrade if there are empty seats available. Also, you can now redeem your Systemwide Upgrade Certificates on Air France and KLM:These upgrades are redeemable on most transatlantic flights operated by Air France. And as before, they continue to be valid on all KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.

Complimentary Upgrades on Alaska Air Flights: As a part of our expanded agreement with Alaska Airlines, tDiamond, Platinum, and Gold Medallion members may receive complimentary upgrades on Alaska flights. Upgrades on Awards are not permitted.


What's Ahead? Our Action Plan: Economy Comfort

Starting this summer, you'll experience more space, legroom, and recline on our long-haul international flights as we introduce "Economy Comfort"s new section of seats located at the front of the Economy cabin that will feature up to four more inches of legroom and 50 percent more recline. SkyMiles Diamond and Platinum Medallion level members who purchase an International Economy ticket on Delta will enjoy free access to Economy Comfort seats. Gold and Silver Medallions who purchase an International Economy ticket on Delta will receive a 50% and 25% discount, respectively, on the current applicable published Economy Comfort seat fee. Up to eight companions traveling on the same reservation as Medallion members will receive the same benefits. Customers who purchase a Y, B, or M fare International Economy ticket will also be able to select an Economy Comfort seat at no additional charge.

Online Award Experience: We are redesigning the Award Travel booking process and calendar on delta.com to improve the Award redemption experience. We plan to continue improving the display of Award seats and other issues to provide better online Award Travel booking. We began making these improvements in May 2010 and have completed many of them. We will continue to improve the online experience on delta.com to offer more functionality to customers through the first quarter of 2011. For example, we will continue to redesign the Award Travel booking process and further improve the pricing and availability display of the calendar. And, we will add even more search options and display flight amenities.

Baggage Waivers on Alaska Air Flights: As part of the Delta and Alaska Airlines partnership expansion, SkyMiles members will receive Elite baggage waivers on Alaska-operated flights by May.

Mileage Upgrade Award:We will add the ability to redeem mileage upgrade Awards online.

Miles and Money Awards: We will re-introduce the former PerkChoice program, which allowed members to combine miles and money when buying a ticket. This program feature will supplement our existing Pay with Miles program for current Delta SkyMiles Gold, Platinum and Reserve SkyMiles Cardmembers from American Express.


SkyMiles Partners range from other airlines like Aeromexico and Hawaiian Airlines (beaches anyone?) and hotels from the Ritz-Carlton to Days Inn, to hundreds of retailers-all with special offers to make your vacation more memorable, your life better, all while letting your earn miles along the way. Here are some of the limited-time offers available to Delta SkyMiles members right now:

Audience Rewards

Earn miles on Broadway. Register your SkyMiles number with Audience Rewards, the Official Rewards Program of Broadway, and start earning at shows like Phantom, West Side Story, Chicago and more.

Boingo

Earn 500 miles by signing up for a Boingo Unlimited Wi-Fi account. Use Boingo at more than 125,000 Wi-Fi hotspots worldwide, including more than 500 airports and 20,000 hotels.

e-Miles

e-Miles is the unique new program that lets you earn miles toward Award Tickets in minutes a day by reading and responding to messages that are relevant to you.

E-Rewards

As a SkyMiles member, you may qualify to join the by-invitation-only eRewards Opinion Panel-where you earn Rewards, such as miles for taking online surveys.

GetAbstract

Earn 10,000 miles with the world's largest provider of business book summaries. With a getAbstract subscription, you can download any of the 4,000 summaries-as many as you want, as often as you want.

Netflix

Earn 1,500 miles when you become a new paying Netflix member.

NetMile – Japan

Residents of Japan can enroll in the NetMile program and convert their NetMile to miles in the SkyMiles program. NetMile can be earned in many ways, including shopping and answering questionnaires online.

Network Solutions

Earn 1,000 miles for each purchase when you sign up for new domain names, transfer or renew existing domain names, e-mail services, and website services.

Points.com

Earn miles at Points.com by Exchanging miles and points from your other programs or Trading miles and points with other people. Join today and earn a chance to win 1 million miles. No purchase required. The Win a Million Miles Sweepstakes began on January 1, 2011 and ends March 31, 2011.

SkyMiles Clothing Care

Earn one mile for every $1 spent with participating dry cleaning merchants when you use a credit card registered with SkyMiles Clothing Care.

SkyMiles Subscriptions

Enjoy an entire year of specially selected magazines and earn 200 miles or more with each title you choose!

Thanks Again

Turn every day purchases around every corner into more SkyMiles! Join Thanks Again to earn 1 EXTRA mile for every $1 spent with thousands of local businesses.

Travelling Connect

Earn miles while traveling abroad and making mobile calls. Simply register with Travelling Connect and then manually switch your phone to the participating mobile networks when you travel abroad. You can earn miles in more than 20 countries including Japan and the Caribbean.

Visit Delta.com for details on all these deals and to stay informed of the latest program news and changes and No matter where you go to getaway, be sure to take your KeyRingThing Card along. We'll help you travel the world uncluttered.