It Just Makes Cents -- a money-minded column to share tips, helpful Web sites and Internet deals. We'll find ways to stretch your dollars, methods for trimming your spending and my favorite ... free stuff.

Web Sites

What could be better than free stuff on your birthday? Visit ilovefreebies.com and click on birthday clubs to find a list of links to business offering freebies on your birthday. Also check out www.freebirthdaystuff.info/bdaymeals.htm for even more free stuff on your special day.

Locally, Hollywood Video offers a free video rental on your birthday (and everyone else on your membership on their birthdays). It just makes cents to enjoy your birthday and get some free stuff.

Totally Free in Pahrump

NyE Communities Coalition and St. Martin's in the Desert Episcopal Church are sponsoring free swimming nights at the Pahrump Town Pool.

Tonight, June 19, is Teen Night (ages 13-18) from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 22 is Family Night (youth accompanied by adults).

Come enjoy free swimming, food and fun at this drug-, tobacco- and alcohol-free event at the Pahrump Town Pool.

If you or your business are interested in sponsoring a night of free swimming for the community, please call NyE Communities Coalition at 727-9970.

Totally Free Elsewhere

Enjoy free admission at select national parks, including Death Valley, Lake Mead, Joshua Tree and the Grand Canyon this weekend and two more in the future: June 20-21, July 18-19 and Aug. 15-16.

Free houseboat rides will be offered at Lake Mead from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on each free Saturday at these locations: Callville Bay Marina, Temple Bar Marina on Lake Mead and Cottonwood Cove on Lake Mohave.

Find free reusable shopping bags at Forever Resorts during these free weekends, while supplies last.

What a great way to enjoy summer! Visit www.nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks.htm for more information.

Money Quote

"If you want to feel rich just count the things you have that money can't buy." -- Anonymous

Have any ideas you can share with the community? Have you visited somewhere nearby that's fun and frugal? Do you know an activity in Pahrump that will entertain, but not break the bank? How about a Web site you've found with cool tips and tricks?

Submit your suggestions by e-mailing jbeaudoin@pvtimes.com. Your ideas and tips can help us all save a buck or two.