ParentsKids
The Best Cyber Monday Toy & Board Game Deals for Joyful Holidays
2024-12-01
If you find yourself still in the process of shopping for the toys that grace your kids' wish lists, there's still ample time to begin—especially when aiming to secure a Cyber Monday deal. Instead of simply succumbing to the marketing frenzy, the key lies in discovering toys and board games that will captivate and amuse your children long after the holiday decorations have been put away.

Our Pleasure to Do the Heavy Lifting

Here at Wirecutter, it is our distinct pleasure to handle the arduous task of holiday shopping. All the items featured on this list of the finest Cyber Monday toy and board-game deals have undergone meticulous vetting by our team of parents (and kids themselves!). Each of these gifts has been carefully selected for its potential to bring lasting joy.

Parent-Tested and Kid-Approved

Our team understands the importance of finding toys that truly resonate with both parents and children. Through extensive testing and evaluation, we have curated a collection of items that not only meet but exceed expectations. For example, one particular toy that made the cut is a wooden puzzle set. Its high-quality materials and engaging design have kept kids entertained for hours on end. The attention to detail in its construction ensures that it will withstand the test of time, providing countless hours of fun.Another gem on the list is a classic board game. Its simple rules and strategic gameplay have made it a favorite among families for generations. It encourages social interaction and critical thinking skills, making it an ideal gift for both young and old. The durability of the game components ensures that it will remain in good condition, ready to be played again and again.

Elf-Approved Deals

When it comes to selecting the best deals, our elves (or rather, the dedicated folks on our Deals team) leave no stone unturned. They have been meticulously reviewing thousands of deals to ensure that only the absolute best make it onto our list. We use the best price in 90 days as our benchmark, guaranteeing that you get the most value for your money.Take, for instance, a popular electronic toy. During Cyber Monday, its price dropped significantly, reaching a level that is not only affordable but also a steal. The savings are substantial, allowing you to purchase multiple gifts without breaking the bank. Additionally, the toy comes with additional features and accessories that enhance the overall play experience.Another deal to keep an eye on is a set of art supplies. The discounted price makes it accessible to even the most budget-conscious parents, while the quality of the materials is on par with more expensive options. This allows kids to explore their creativity and express themselves through art, fostering a love for the arts that can last a lifetime.So, sit back, relax with a warm beverage, and embark on a journey through the marbles, cards, knickknacks, and must-haves to find the perfect Cyber Monday toy deals for all the kids (and kids at heart) in your life. Let us help you make this holiday season truly memorable with the best gifts and deals available.
Taylor’d Bar-B-Q Closes Due to Construction Project Impact
2024-12-01
Avondale Estates, Georgia has seen the closure of a beloved local eatery. Taylor’d Bar-B-Q, which opened in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, announced its impending shut-down on November 27. The reason cited was the ongoing construction projects in the area.

"The Impact of Construction on a Local Restaurant's Journey"

Opening Amidst a Pandemic

The restaurant's journey began in 2020, a time when the world was grappling with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. It managed to have a fantastic start to 2024, achieving its best month ever in May. However, since then, sales have taken a significant downturn. First, it was the Dekalb Water Project in June, and then the Avondale road diet project in July. This project, officially called the North Avondale Complete Street Project, is estimated to be completed in the first quarter of 2026. After five months of a 20% drop in sales, the decision to close was made, and the doors will shut this Sunday, December 1.

The Burglary Incident

Owner Joshua McDowell has been voicing his concerns for weeks about the negative impact of the road diet on his company's bottom line. In September, burglars targeted the business and managed to steal only $60 but caused significant damage to the building. This added to the challenges faced by the restaurant.

The Impact on the Community

Avondale Estates Mayor Jonathan Elmore expressed his sadness at the closure of Taylor’d. He emphasized that the city does not want any business to fail and will do everything possible to support them. The city officially broke ground on the North Avondale Complete Street Project in June, acknowledging that it would be disruptive. To support local businesses during this time, the city launched a campaign called the Shop Local Throw Down.U.S. 278, the main drag in Avondale Estates, runs through the city and its historic downtown. Known as East College Avenue and North Avondale Road, the project includes a road diet that reduces the travel lanes from five to three between Sam’s Crossing and Ashton Place. The project corridor is 1.15 miles, and many businesses are located on North Avondale Road. The project also includes a 10-foot path along the north side of the street, new traffic lights and streetlights, a center median, and a five-foot sidewalk on the south side between South Avondale Road and Sam’s Crossing. There will be some on-street parking as well. The total cost of the construction is approximately $8.5 million.As the road construction shakes up the streets, the city encourages residents and visitors to unite and support their beloved businesses. From cozy cafes to boutique shops, every purchase matters in keeping the community thriving. Let's turn detours into discoveries and construction chaos into a celebration of our local treasures.
See More
Construction Begins on Weston's Long-Awaited Dog Park
2024-12-01
On the day before Thanksgiving, a significant milestone was reached as construction on the long-awaited dog park in Weston began. Nearly seven years after residents voted in favor of building it on town-owned land, heavy equipment was brought in to clear dead and down trees along the park's accessway and parking area. This project, which had obtained all local approvals multiple times, had faced numerous delays due to legal actions filed in various courts and state commissions. However, none of these challenges were successful.

Legal Challenges and Court Rulings

The most recent motion, filed in July, sought a preliminary injunction to block the construction of the park entrance. The complaint alleged that the town's design did not comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), leading to the case being moved to federal court. On November 4, United States District Court Judge Kari A. Dooley denied the motion. Judge Dooley ruled that the proposed work was actually designed to make the entrance to the dog park ADA-compliant and would not harm either the able-bodied or the disabled. In fact, tree removal, grading, and drainage were all making the area more accessible rather than less so.Judge Dooley also considered the standards for injunctive relief and noted that the plaintiff, Ellen Strauss, had failed to demonstrate any irreparable harm. It seemed that her main concern was simply that she did not want the dog park to be constructed. On the contrary, the judge believed that the "balance of the interests" favored the town. She pointed out the expenditure of time and resources, the will of the majority of residents, and the costs of creating the dog park in an ADA-compliant manner. Judge Dooley also emphasized that with delay came rising costs, as prices had escalated during the years of litigation, eventually requiring a scaled-back design and more approvals and lawsuits.

Progress on the Construction Site

During a walkthrough on November 27 as work began, First Selectwoman Samantha Nestor expressed her expectation of being able to open the park early in the new year. Public Works director Larry Roberts stated that progress should not be slowed by the arrival of colder weather, unless the ground freezes. Usually, early winter does not bring freezing temperatures at all.

Related Legal Proceedings and Timelines

There have been a series of related legal stories over the years. In July 2024, a lawsuit challenged the dog park plan. In January 2024, the dog park appeal was denied anew. In December 2023, the dog park appeal was rejected. In August 2023, the dog park appeal was also denied. In June 2022, the Conservation Commission approved the dog park. In March 2022, the dog park plan was referred to commissions. In February 2022, the dog park came back into focus. In November 2020, the Appeals Court declined to review the dog park ruling. In August 2020, the court dismissed the dog park appeal. In January 2019, the dog park cleared another hurdle. In November 2018, there was a dog park donation. In April 2018, the "Ayes Have It" regarding the dog park, and there was also a Q&A about the dog park. In January 2018, the town was set to vote on the dog park.
See More