The Daily Giveaway

The Daily Giveaway is on vacation

2012-01-03T08:52:00.001-05:00

Hi There: All the items in previous postings have been given away. We'll post new ones on the home page every now and then.
Roland Wilkerson

Electric Snow Thrower!

2011-12-22T06:00:00.002-05:00

The lightweight, powerful Snow Joe Plus electric snow thrower is perfect for clearing off light snowfall on sidewalks, porches and decks. The instant electric power on the model means it will be ready whenever snow hits. Here are a few more details:

Snow Joe Plus - A reliable, no-gas solution for unpredictable winter weather, the Snow Joe Plus cuts a path of snow 12 inches wide x four inches deep in one sweep. Its lightweight 12.5 lb. design and shovel-like appearance features an adjustable handle and back-saving curve that takes the strain out of shoveling. The Snow Joe Plus launches snow up to 20 feet, moving up to 300 pounds of snow per minute. Retail price is $99.99.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline is 3 pm today. The name of winner will be published. This item will be shipped to the winner.

Studio Series Microsoft wireless mouse

2011-12-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

Express yourself with a Microsoft Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500 Studio Series – Artist Edition. Show off your personal style by sporting a mouse designed by artist Matt W. Moore. This is a piece of art that works. Retail value is $29.99.

BlueTrack Technology – Take advantage of BlueTrack Technology, which combines the power of optical with the precision of laser for remarkable tracking on virtually any surface.
Plug-And-Go Nano Transceiver – Leave the Nano Transceiver plugged in when you're on the go, or stow it in the mouse.
8-Month Battery Life – Use your mouse for up to eight months without having to change batteries. Battery status indicator tells you when battery power is low.
On/Off Switch –Conserve battery power by turning off your mouse when not in use.
Comfortable in Either Hand - Use your mouse with your left or right hand. Ambidextrous design makes it comfortable either way.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline is 8 p.m. Saturday night. Include name, mailing address and phone number. The name of winner will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Christmas Grab Bag

2011-12-19T06:00:00.000-05:00

No, you won't get Santa's bag full of toys, but you'll get the best of holiday knick knacks that we have received in the newsroom at The Charlotte Observer. What's in it? It is a surprise.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline is 11 tonight. Include name, mailing address and phone number. The name of winner will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

The Original Reverse Charades

2011-12-17T06:00:00.002-05:00

Reverse Charades is a hilarious twist on the classic game of charades. Instead of one person acting out a clue for a team to guess, in Reverse Charades, a team acts out clues for one person to guess. The goal is to guess as many words as possible in 60 seconds. It’s a fast-paced, fiercely fun team completion that’s an absolute riot for families, work teams, school groups, and party-goers. Retail is $23.99.

The Original Reverse Charades, Junior Edition

2011-12-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

Reverse Charades is a hilarious twist on the classic game of charades. Instead of one person acting out a clue for a team to guess, in Reverse Charades, a team acts out clues for one person to guess. The goal is to guess as many words as possible in 60 seconds. It’s a fast-paced, fiercely fun team completion that’s an absolute riot. For six or more players ages 6 and up. Retail price is $23.99.

MONOPOLY Disney Pixar Cars 2 Edition Game

2011-12-15T06:00:00.002-05:00

Race to “real estate” victory with characters from the Cars 2 movie! Buy and trade cars in this fast-paced game to try to earn the most money. Speed your way around the board, build up monopolies and—if you’re the richest player at the end of the game—win! Retail price is $19.99.

Includes 1 racetrack (in 4 pieces), 1 Lightning McQueen racecar, 1 gameboard, 16 Cars cards, 16 tires, 8 Pitties, 4 character movers, 16 Chance chards, money pack and instructions. For 2 to 4 players. Ages 5 and up.

SCRABBLE Turbo Slam! Game

2011-12-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

How fast can you create words? Slap down cards to change the words on the table. Then, slam fast when you hear the turbo sound from the Turbo Slam unit. If you slam first, grab an action card. What’s in store for you? The only way to tell is to play, slap and slam! Retail is $14.99.

Includes electronic Turbo Slam unit with storage tray, 55 letter cards, 12 action cards and rules.

Requires 3 “AAA” batteries (not included). For 2 to 4 players. Ages 8 and up.

Lucky Ducks

2011-12-13T06:00:00.006-05:00

This pond is full of duckies! Pick one up to see if the color and shape match your home symbol. The first player to find all three duckies with his or her symbol wins!

Includes 12 plastic ducks, motorized pond, Ernie figure and instructions.

Requires 2 “C” batteries (not included). For two to four players ages 3 and up. Retail is $19.99.

Family game: Electronic CatchPhrase

2011-12-12T06:00:00.004-05:00

The grab it, guess it, pass it game. The whole family can have hours of fun with the electronic Catch Phrase game. This version adds more than 1,000 new phrases to the classic game, providing extended playability for veteran players. The built-in scorekeeper makes it easy to keep track of the score as you play. Retail is $26.99.

Battleship: The Original Naval Combat Game

2011-12-11T06:00:00.002-05:00

This is the Battleship game for kids seven years old and up. You need at least two players. are to defeat the enemy fleet in this classic game of strategic combat. Command a fleet of five ships as you search out the enemy, fire at coordinates and score hits. Can you sink your opponent’s fleet before your opponent sinks yours? Retail price is $17.99.

Jennifer Lopez Marilyn Belted Shopper

2011-12-08T08:00:00.005-05:00

The Jennifer Lopez Marilyn Belted Shopper is the ideal companion for any shopaholic. Comprised of gray tumbled faux leather with silver-tone accents and a belted front, this purse also features three separate entries and interior zip pockets to keep organized in a bag measuring 11"H x 15"W x 7"D. This Jennifer Lopez Marilyn Shopper retails for $129 and is available at Kohl’s stores.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com.

Deadline is 11 tonight. Include name, mailing address and phone number. The name of winner will be published. This item will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Sure Fit soft suede sofa pet cover

2011-12-07T06:00:00.009-05:00

Now it's okay for your best friend to be on the furniture. Sure Fit's new soft suede pet throws are an easy and budget-friendly way to protect your furniture from pet fur or stains. The Available in 2 decor friendly colors - chocolate and taupe. Made from 100% polyester, washable. Giveaway throw is taupe and it fits most sofas from 74" to 96." Retail value is $49.99.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Include the name of your pet. A picture is even better. Deadline is 11 tonight. Include name, mailing address and phone number. The name of winner will be published. The winner must be able to pick up this item at the Observer.

Sandra Richard of Clover won the the Singing Christmas Tree tickets.
Vickie Meadows of Troutman won the Melvin Ram Cuff

Antique gold ram bracelet

2011-12-06T08:53:00.003-05:00

This Melvin Single Ram cuff in brass is a bold and elegant way to say 'I’ve got the head for style.' A piece from the design duo’s “Untamed” group, it is one of the many animals available for wear from Carolina natives, Martha Clifford and Morgan Walker. Value more than $100. The Melvin line is available at Poole Shop, 4010 Sharon Road in Charlotte.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline is 11 tonight. Include name, mailing address and phone number. The name of winner will be published. This item will have to be picked up at the Observer.

4 Saturday Tickets for The Singing Christmas Tree

2011-12-05T06:00:00.012-05:00

Win four tickets to Charlotte's beloved Singing Christmas Tree show.
Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline is 11 tonight. Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. Tickets must be picked up at the Observer.

Winner of the Dots gift Certificate: Sharon Sadler, Charlotte.
Winner of the BLT Steak card, Christy Rushing, Charlotte
Winner of the Vertex headphones, Maria Johnson, Charlotte

$60 Gift Certificate to BLT Steak

2011-12-03T06:00:00.007-05:00

$60 Gift Certificate to BLT Steak

Located off the main lobby of The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte, BLT Steak offers prime cuts of beef, fresh seafood, a wide variety of tempting side dishes, and classic American dessert favorites.

BLT, which stands for Bistro Laurent Tourondel, has redefined steakhouse dining with its modern décor and infusion of classic French techniques. This unique Charlotte steakhouse integrates traditional elements of a cozy French Bistro with those of a stylish, urbane boîte.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline is 11 Sunday night. Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published.

Ifrogz Vertex headphones with mic

2011-12-02T06:00:00.005-05:00

In physics, a Vertex is where particles collide. In this case, precision, function, style, and sound all collided to create iFrogz's Vertex Headphones. Designed with comfortable AeroFoam ear cushions, Vertex headphones are lightweight, foldable, and ergonomically designed for maximum comfort. The convenient in-line microphone allows you to enjoy the in-depth acoustic tuning of our full-spectrum 40 mm speaker drivers, without missing calls from your mobile phone. Retail is $49.99.

$100 gift card Dots fashion apparel stores

2011-12-01T06:00:00.006-05:00

Dots is a fashion apparel specialty store offering the newest fashion trends at exceptional prices, every day. The brand targets woman who are inspired by current fashion trends, but don’t want to overpay for it. The giveaway for dots is a $100 gift card.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline is 11 tonight. Include name, mailing address and phone number. The name of winner will be published.

Recent Winners:
Striiv fitness device: Susan Shikany, Indian Trail
Mobile Scanner: Shawna Ghamsari, Charlotte

NeatReceipts mobile scanner for PC

2011-11-30T13:20:00.000-05:00

NeatReceipts is a mobile scanner and digital filing system that helps you manage all of your paperwork on the computer. Includes software that identifies and extracts the important information from receipts, business cards and documents and automatically organizes it for you. All scanned documents can be searched by keyword so you can find exactly what you need.

The Neat software gives you an easy-to-use, intuitive application to manage all of your business and personal paperwork. This version does not work with a Macintosh computer. Retail is $199.95.

Key Features:

Scan in receipts to:

• Save digital copies of receipts and records of vendors, dates, and totals

• Create expense reports and manage business and personal expenses

• Keep track of expenses for tax time (records accepted by the IRS)

• Export data to PDF, Excel®, Quicken®, QuickBooks®, TurboTax®

Scan in business cards to:

• Keep digital images of cards and contact information

• Capture name, address, company title, etc.

• Create your own searchable contact database

• Export data to Outlook and more

Scan in documents to:

• Create searchable PDF files

• Edit text using copy/paste

• Organize and store in your digital filing system

New in Neat software:

• The Quick Scan Center lets you scan documents from a system tray application

• The Inbox organizes all of your scanned items and lets you verify and then file the information

• The application interface has been redesigned to be faster and easier to navigate

Striiv fitness bundle

2011-11-29T06:00:00.004-05:00

Striiv is a sleek fitness device that fits on your keychain and counts every step you take. Striiv motivates you to transform your life with games, donations, and personal challenges that are powered by your activity. Striiv's always-on TruMotion technology credits you for every step you take. It works in your hand, belt, and even your purse!. Earn rewards and bonuses for walking to lunch, climbing the stairs, or taking your dog for a run. With Striiv, fitness finally fits around your schedule. With Striiv, every step you take counts towards a donation to charity– at no cost to you. When you walk, Striiv and other sponsors make donations on your behalf. The more you walk, the more you give. Striiv games are powered by your movement. Create your own enchanted island filled with exotic wildlife and plants. Retail is $99.

Pair of Motorola two-way radios

2011-11-28T06:00:00.006-05:00

Motorola's Talkabout MS350R 35 Mile Range, Waterproof, Two-Way Radio is by no means a fair weather radio. This high performance, ultra durable waterproof radio is right for the extreme outdoors. It uses both Family Radio Service (FRS) and General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) frequencies providing more channel combinations. With a range of up to 35 miles, 22 channels and PTT Power Boost Feature, this radio is built for function, but also boasts a sleek contemporary look. Retail is $99.99.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline is 11 tonight. Include name, mailing address and phone number. The name of winner will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Recent Winners:
Legos Book--Mark Sheppard, Huntersville
Zomm cell phone leash---Keith Rosenthal, Charlotte
Pelican iPhone case---Michael Smith, Charlotte

Zomm: wireless leash, speakerphone and emergency dialer

2011-11-27T06:00:00.010-05:00

The Zomm is "alarmingly smart" item to protect your iPhone and you. The device uses Bluetooth technology to give you a one-touch connection to emergency assistance. It also features a panic alarm, mobile speakerphone technology, and the ability to sound an alert if you ever leave your iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad behind. The wireless leash is designed to work in unison with the myZOMM App, available from the App Store. Retail is $99.99.

Connects wirelessly via Bluetooth technology
Auto-dials 911 (or any number you choose)
Answer calls with speaker and noise-cancelling mic
Alerts you if you leave behind an iOS device
Find your keys with the myZOMM App

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline is 11 Sunday. Include name, mailing address and phone number. The name of winner will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Heavy duty Pelican i1015 iPhone Case

2011-11-24T06:00:00.007-05:00

Pelican i1015 Waterproof iPhone/Blackberry Dry Case Protect your iPhone, iPod Touch or other Smart Phones from the elements with the i1015 Waterproof iPhone/Blackberry Dry Case from Pelican. Water resistant, crushproof, and dust proof, this i1015 dry case will protect your gadget from most hazards. The easy open latch securely fastens the case closed and a custom rubber liner doubles as o-ring seal keeping out the elements. The external headphone jack lets you listen to your player with the case closed (headphones not included). A built-in cable manager holds the earphones and cables to prevent that nasty tangle you get when you put them in your pocket or backpack. You don't have to let a little rain or splash get you down when you have your Pelican i1015 Waterproof iPhone/Blackberry Dry Case with you! Please note, case is NOT waterproof or submersible. Retail price is $41.99.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline is 11 tonight. Include name, mailing address and phone number. The name of winner will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Recent Winners:
Robot Kit, Heidi Anderson of Charlotte
Oprah Book, Haja Kiawoh of Charlotte

The Lego Ideas Book

2011-11-23T06:00:00.003-05:00

Did you ever wonder what you can do with all of those LEGO bricks after you have created the project they came with?

Now with The LEGO Ideas Book, you can take what you already have and make something new. The book is divided into six themed chapters-transportation, buildings, space, kingdoms, adventure, and useful makes-each with basic templates of key models and spreads to inspire you to create your own.

Hints and tips from Master Builders can help you turn your classic car into a race car or add a bridge to your castl. Don't be concerned if you haven't got all the bricks you need: this book also shows how to simplify details, making this a great user-friendly guide for any building ability. Retail is $24.99.

Recent Winners:
Alien Robots Kits: Heidi Anderson, Charlotte
Ifrogz Head Phones, Cornelius

'The Oprah Winfrey Show: Reflections on an American Legacy'

2011-11-22T06:00:00.011-05:00

A $50 value, this coffee table book allows fans of the Oprah Winfrey show to celebrate the show's impact while reliving favorite moments, guests and stories. Tell us why you want the book in an email to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com.

You must pick up this book at the Observer. Deadline for entry 11 p.m. Tuesday night.

'Voice Rockrz Mic' for kids who love to sing

2011-11-21T06:00:00.003-05:00

From the living room to the stage, whether you’re performing solo or with friends, Voice Rockrz gives you the tools you need to shine in the spotlight! Voice Rockrz is an innovative microphone that magically interacts with included accessories to transform your voice. The crowd cheers in amazement! Retail is $24.99.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline is 11 tonight. Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. This item will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Tomorrow's Prize: A $50 Oprah Winfrey Show coffee table book

Alien Robots Kit from David Eckold

2011-11-19T06:00:00.002-05:00

Make science spring to life with a whir of motors, levers, gears, axles, and propellers! With six kinetic alien monsters to build, this DK kit doesn't just feed the imagination but, together with the science-packed companion book, it also explains all the physics and theories behind what makes the models work. For ages 8 and up, the retail value is $24.99.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline is 11 tonight. Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Ifrogz Earpollution cs40s Headphones

2011-11-17T06:00:00.007-05:00

Whether you're a businesswoman enjoying Pavarotti on a flight to Paris, or a teenager chillaxin' to Radiohead, you'll experience a dynamic 40 mm driver with amazing bass and incredibly smooth undertones, pumped through AeroFoam ear cushions. Includes a foldable design. Retail is $39.99.

Monday Winner of Cookie the Pup:Franchyell McLaughlin, Charlotte
Tuesday Winner of Time Civil War book: Josh Vannais, Charlotte

Playkool Poppin Park Elefun busy ball popper

2011-11-16T06:00:00.007-05:00

Once the balls pop out of the elephant’s trunk, it’s baby’s guess which way they’ll roll. With 10 fun tunes to play and this elephant’s trunk controlling the poppin’ direction, the play is exciting, engaging and, most of all, fun. Includes elephant, stability base, ear attachment, 5 balls and instructions. Requires 4 “D” batteries (not included). From Playskool, the retail price is $29.99.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline is 11 tonight. Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. This item will have to be picked up at the Observer.

The Civil War, An Illustrated History

2011-11-15T06:00:00.003-05:00

TIME observes the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War in a richly illustrated chronicle of the conflict that changed America. It's an immense battle between freedom and slavery, waged across the breadth of the still-expanding nation over a period of four years. The book focuses on little-seen photographs and original artifacts from the period: sketches from soldier's diaries, unusual and rare military and political memorabilia. And it brings us face-to-face with those who lived through the period. Retail price is $29.95.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline is 11 tonight. Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Recent winners:

Weekend, ear buds, Paul Manos, Charlotte
Thursday make up, Cynthia Binning, Monroe

Cookie My Playful Pup

2011-11-14T06:00:00.003-05:00

Just like a real puppy, Cookie My Playful Pup barks, wags her tail, moves her head in the direction of loud sounds (like her squeaky toy), and makes puppy talk when you talk to her! When you touch her cheek, she moves toward your hand! Pet her back and she’ll bark and wag her tail! She’s so soft! Puppy comes with squeaky toy bone. Requires 4 “C” batteries(temporary batteries included). Ages 4 and up. From FurReal friends, the retail value is $79.95 (The box is slightly damaged, but a little tape should take care of it.)

Ifrogz TimbrePro Ear Buds With Mic

2011-11-12T06:00:00.002-05:00

The speaker chamber is made entirely of wood, allowing rich sound and deep bass. TimbrePro EarBuds deliver quality sound, super-deep bass, smooth, undistorted highs, and crystal clear vocals. The ear buds come with three tip sizes to fit your ear canal and are compatible with iPhone™, iPod™, BlackBerry®, and any other media device with a 3.5 mm jack. The ear buds include a convenient in-line microphone to allow enjoyment of in-depth acoustic tuning, without missing calls from your mobile phone. Retail is $49.99.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline is 11 Sunday night, Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Make Up For Ever: Professional

2011-11-10T06:00:00.004-05:00

This limited edition set from Sephora contains six of Make Up For Ever's best-selling products to create a beautiful holiday make up look from start to finish. Products include HD Microperfecting Primer, HD Microfinish Powder, Smoky Lash mascara, Aqua Cream #13, Lab Shine #S4 and Aqua Eyes #OL. Retail is $55.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline 11 tonight, Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Previous Winners:

Monday's Pyrex Kit--Kathy Matson, Charlotte.

Tuesday's Facial winner--Julie Reuter, Pineville

Handy shop scissors for the toolbox

2011-11-09T06:00:00.013-05:00

The Fiskars ShopBoss Hardware Snip is an innovative multipurpose tool that

combines some of the most frequently used tools in your toolbox. The

ShopBoss features Titanium coated, heavy duty blades designed for

tough cutting jobs, a wire cutter, wire stripper, twine cutter and

bottle opener along with a multipurpose holster with a belt clip,

deburring file, tape cutter and pencil holder. Retail price for the item is $29.95.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline 11 tonight. Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish™ Hot Cloth Cleanser

2011-11-08T06:00:00.002-05:00

This plant based cleanser has a two-phase action, phase one is the cleansing. Free from mineral oil, it has a rich and creamy texture and swiftly removes all traces of face and eye make up. Phase two is the polishing. Polish off the cream using the pure muslin cloth to gently dislodge dead skin cells and help reveal clean, soft and radiant skin. Naturally active ingredients include eucalyptus and cocoa butter for smoother, clearer skin. Value: $32

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline 11 tonight, Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Pyrex cook kit with loads of cool stuff

2011-11-07T06:00:00.005-05:00

The Pyrex company sent the Observer a big press kit box with 3 pieces of glassware, kitchen utensils, apron and fun odds and ends. Win this for your favorite cook and there could something delicious in your future.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to: giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline 11 tonight, Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published.

This item will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Thursday winner of the Bobble water bottle: Melissa Gray, Charlotte

Weekend winner of the tool bag: Diane Hurst, Charlotte.

Great tool kit for a budding do-it-yourselfer

2011-11-05T06:00:00.007-04:00

A set of tools from Shaw Floors, perfect for a new homeowner or apartment dweller. Everything you need for small repair jobs or for hanging items on the wall. It includes a screwdriver with interchangeable bits, three small screwdrivers, a level, tape measure, regular and needle-nose pliers, adjustable wrench, hammer, assorted fasteners and a storage bag. There's no retail price for this kit, but it is very nice,

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to sendto:giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline 11 Sunday night, Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Bobble Refrigerator water filtering jug

2011-11-03T06:00:00.002-04:00

Designed by Karim Rashid for Move Collective, bobble jug is a faster, smarter, sleeker reimagining of the squat, slow-filtering jugs that have hogged space in refrigerators for generations. Bobble jug is available exclusively at Target stores nationwide, as well as via www.waterbobble.com. Thereafter, bobble jug will be available at select major retailers nationwide at a suggested price of $29.99.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline 11 tonight, Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. This item will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Winner of the Easy Bake Oven: Charlie St. Clair, Hickory

EASY-BAKE Ultimate Oven

2011-11-02T06:00:00.002-04:00

The EASY-BAKE brand introduces the EASY-BAKE Ultimate Oven. This oven features a heating element, similar to a conventional oven and that does not require a light bulb. Easy to use, the oven features a larger cooking chamber and bigger baking pan. In addition, the new oven bakes an extended menu that includes cookies, red velvet cupcakes, checker cakes, pizza, pretzels, cinnamon twists and brownie sticks (refills sold separately). It comes with all the tools tweens will need including a baking pan, cupcake pan, pan pusher/spatula, storage drawer, and mixes to make 12 mini cookies and 12 mini red velvet cupcakes complete with frosting and sprinkles. Adult participation and electricity required. Ages 8 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $49.99.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline 11 tonight, Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. The winner must pick up this item at the Observer.
Tuesday Winner of the Life anniversary book: J.D. Hathcock, Mint Hill

Life 75 Years: The Very Best of Life

2011-11-01T06:00:00.013-04:00

Get this before the official publish date of November 8! In this deluxe commemorative edition: The best war photos ever taken for LIFE; the loveliest pictures from Hollywood the best sports pictures, the funniest pictures the magazine ever ran. It also includes a complete reprint of the first-ever LIFE issue, with the Margaret Bourke-White photograph of the Fort Peck Dam on the cover. Retail price is $36.95.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline 11 tonight, Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. This item will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Chocolate winners from Monday: Charlotte Manis, Charlotte.

Ray McCormick. Charlotte

Fine Chocolates by Fannie May

2011-10-31T06:00:00.002-04:00

Iconic fine-chocolate brand Fannie May has aligned with famed pastry chef and chocolatier Norman Love to launch an ultra-premium line of chocolates, FM Artisan by Norman Love. The handcrafted chocolates are available in unique flavors, from Madagascar bourbon vanilla to candy apple, in vibrant colors and designs, making each piece an edible work of art. This is a 12-piece package valued at $29.99.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline 11 tonight, Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Winner of Thursday's knife sharpening visit by A Finer Edge of Charlotte: Shari Thayne, Rock Hill.
Winner of the Weekend Pasta Pot: James Dwyer, Charlotte

Bialetti Pasta Pot

2011-10-29T06:00:00.000-04:00

Bialetti’s 5-quart Pasta Pot featuring an innovative lock-on lid with built-in strainer, eliminating the need for a colander. The Pasta Pots are available in three hot colors: Purple Passion, Blue Cheer and Orange Spice for $34.95.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline 11 Sunday night, Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Mobile Knife Sharpening comes to your house

2011-10-27T06:00:00.006-04:00

A Finer Edge mobile knife sharpening service comes to your house for free.

A visit usually costs about $50. Owner Gary Gordon said a typical sharpening visit might include 8 knives, one mower blade (you must remove from mower yourself) 1 hedge clipper, 1 pruning shear. You'll need to come to agreement with him on $50 worth of service.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline 11 tonight, Include name, mailing address and phone number.

Wednesday's winner of the Eureka vacuum cleaner: Lucinda Sealy, of Charlotte

Eureka AirSpeed Vacuum

2011-10-26T06:00:00.010-04:00

The Eureka® AirSpeed™ is an upright bagless vacuum with two extra-wide, smooth air pipes that move high volumes of air directly from the floor to the dust cup and out again. The wide design of the AirSpeed tubes increase the amount of airflow for powerful suction to remove more than just the dirt you can see – unlike most upright vacuums that use long hose systems full of twists and texturing.
Value 119.96.

Eureka is part of Electrolux Home Care Products, now based in Charlotte.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline 11 tonight, Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Winners of Tuesday's Duracell USB charger:
Todd Staples, Concord
Tom Kirkham, Gastonia
Caitlin Hewitt, Charlotte
Reece Chilton, Matthews

"Southern Living" home design book

2011-10-24T06:00:00.001-04:00

Southern Living Style, a home design book from Southern Living Magazine, has debuted in bookstores nationwide.
It serves as a step-by-step guide on crafting spaces that are traditional, eclectic, and always unexpected, plus offers countless tips like how to reclaim tag-sale relics. The book also gives readers a sneak peek into the homes of top Southern designers. Value: $30.00

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline 11 tonight, Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Let's Rock! Elmo

2011-10-22T18:00:00.000-04:00

Let's Rock! Elmo has the loveable Sesame Street character singing catchy tunes with other Sesame Street characters. Value: $69.99.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline 11 p.m. Sunday, Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Want some chocolate?

2011-10-20T06:00:00.003-04:00

While Belgium and Switzerland may be credited for their tantalizing truffles and chocolate-dipped delights, it was Mexico who first introduced chocolate to the world. Now Americans from coast to coast can order the native Mexican treat right to their doorstep from El Tri Market, an online company that offers an array of traditional products reminiscent of a Mexican marketplace.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline 11 p.m. Thursday. Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.
Domonique Bynum of Charlotte won the Discovery Places passes.

Our next giveaway is Sunday, when you have a chance to win "Let's Rock! Elmo.' It's a $70 value.

Win tickets to Discovery Place

2011-10-19T06:00:00.005-04:00

Win three free tickets good until the end of the year to Discovery Place in Charlotte. A $36 value.

From their website: "Spend a day at Discovery Place and we'll introduce you to a world of wonder, where science amazes, educates and entertains. There's something for everyone in the family to enjoy, from little ones just starting to explore to adults who feel like they have seen it all. No matter your age, we're dedicated to connecting you with science, technology and nature and making it a fun and fascinating part of your world."

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline 11 tonight, Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Glenda White of Gastonia 'won the "Lucy" coffee table book.

Watch Sunday for the "Let's Rock! Elmo" giveaway.

'I Love Lucy' coffee table book

2011-10-18T06:00:00.011-04:00

It's a celebration of All Things Lucy with lots of photos, episode capsules and more. Value:$30.

Monday's winner of the Eton emergency flashlight: Edithanne Fritz, Charlotte.

Send a short pitch on why you want the prize to giveaway@charlotteobserver.com. Deadline 11 tonight, Include name, mailing address and phone number. The names of winners will be published. Large items will have to be picked up at the Observer.

Watch charlotteobserver.com Sunday for our Let's Rock! Elmo giveaway.