Cheap Solutions

by Holan

With the economy on the fritz and everyone is panicking, I thought I'd give you some money saving tips for your weekend pleasures. This week I'm focusing on going to the movies.

When going to the movies, try to avoid going to the late showings. Instead, go to one of the matinee showings (before 5:30), as they tend to be cheaper and less crowded. Less crowd means less jerks, you know the ones I'm talking about, the ones that hoot and holler in the theater like it's an episode of "Married with Children."

Okay now, before you even leave your house you have to remember how outrageous those lobby prices are. Go out to your local convenient store and stock up on food and drinks you are going to want to have with you in the movie theater. Don't get too much now, because remember, you're trying to save money here. Once you have your items, now what? You can't just waltz into a movie theater with a bag groceries. Now, this is where you got to be creative. Extra large cargo pants works extremely for well stuffing a few cans of sodas or candy bars. Why stop there, have your girlfriend take everything out of her purse, and cram as much items in there as you possibly can. Well, what if you don't have a girlfriend or know a girl? Don't worry, dress-up your most feminine looking friend like a chick, take your moms purse, and presto. In case anyone asks, say your girlfriend is from a family with bad genes. Okay, you got your goodies, now it's time to go into the movies.

Once you have purchased your movie ticket, now what? One thing to do is, don't be a sucker. Why watch one movie when I can watch two? Movie hopping is always an option, as long there isn't guards at every movie. So it might be best to plan ahead. Look at the movie schedule, pick at least two movies you would like to see. Make sure the second movie you want to watch starts right after the one you want to see first. After the first movie is over, try not to be so obvious. Don't walk around like you are lost, instead, just be casual. If someone is to approach you, act like a tourist from another country and leave the movie theater, they're on to you.

Tips to save when going to a movie theater are:

• See an early show
  
• Sneak in your own drinks and snacks
• Movie hop

There you have it, a few tips to help you save in these trying times. Now of course not going and seeing a movie would probably be best, but hey, it's always good to pump some money in the economy, just as long as it's not on credit.