Check out Gordmans' home decor

If you haven't discovered Gordmans, the newest Twin Cities department store, its home decor department is definitely worth a visit. The selection of accent pillows, occasional tables, vases, art, lamps and photo albums rivals HomeGoods.

The Omaha-based department store (www.gordmans.com) opened in Mankato in 2005 and added Burnsville and Woodbury locations in April. Prices are on par with HomeGoods. The best deals are on the clearance racks (look for yellow signs on end caps).

Best bets include table lamps from $10 to $100, a large variety of throw pillows under $25, and a wall art selection that rivals Bed, Bath & Beyond's.

Although often compared to Kohl's in selection and quality, Gordmans offers everyday low prices, not sales. Here's a tip for extra savings: When you buy something, you can get a coupon for "20 percent off any single item" on a future purchase. But you can also pick up a coupon at the service counter without a purchase. I had no problem getting one earlier this week, but supplies are limited. Additional coupons are available to customers on Gordmans' mailing list or on Facebook. Gordmans is also one of the few retailers that still offers layaway.
JOHN EWOLDT

PIZZA PARTY AND WORKSHOP

Like pizza? Want to grill your own outdoors? Gertens Garden Center will celebrate Memorial Day weekend by hosting a pizza party and workshop on the patio, May 28-29. From 9 a.m.-3 p.m., you can sample free grill-cooked Bellatoria pizza (including their new line of Sunday brunch pizzas, in case traditional pizza isn't your breakfast cup of tea), as well as coffee, lemonade and other beverages. There will also be a demonstration, by Rockwood Concrete, on how to build an outdoor fireplace and incorporate it into your landscape. Gertens is at 5500 Blaine Av., Inver Grove Heights.
KIM PALMER