Find a Gift that Keeps on Giving

When it comes to gift giving, it's often said, "it's the thought that counts," well why not give a gift that will have your recipient thinking of you fondly for the rest of the year? The County has a number of unique and relatively inexpensive options for gift-giving, many of which offer year-round benefits. Just peruse the list below and you're sure to find something that will bring joy to your family, friends and wallet:

• Shopping on a Budget - Times are tough, but that doesn't mean the holidays have to be. These shopping tips and video will help you on your way to making the most of your holiday dollars.
• Give the gift of Culture -The Miami Art Museum (MAM) Store has interesting and artistic items for the home and office, as well as books and media, catalogues of past exhibitions one-of-kind toys and books for kids.For a gift that makes a lasting impression for not a lot of scratch, consider giving the art buff in your life a membership to MAM. For just $45, they can enjoy free entry to the museum and its popular JAM at MAM series as well as a 10 percent discount on any MAM Store merchandise. Vizcaya Museum also has gift shop and membership options you can explore; just call 305-250-9133 for more information.
• The Great Outdoors as Gift - If you have someone on your list who loves to take advantage of all that Miami-Dade County parks have to offer, then check out the Parks Store for some great ideas on gifts that take fun in the sun to a whole new level.
• Make Life Easier for Loved Ones - Sometimes the best gifts are the simplest ones -- the ones you don't think to get, but make life so much easier for others when you give them.
  • Have someone on your list who's expecting? Give them a baby stroller permit.
  • Know someone who's not getting a flat screen TV this year? Get them a digital TV tuner!
  • Invest in someone's future by buying them a Savings Bond.
  • Get the coin enthusiast in your life a cool gift from the U.S. Mint.
  • Thinking about getting your friend man's best friend? Why not adopt a pooch or kitty from Animal Services? Don't forget the license!
• 'Tis the Season for Saving Animals - Do something special for the animal lover in your life and for the planet by adopting an endangered animal. Sponsoring an animal through the Zoological Society of Florida Adopt An Animal Program helps Miami Metrozoo participate in conservation and preservation programs that fight for the survival of these species. The $35 holiday special entitles you to a host of great goodies (including a plush version of your adopted animal while supplies last) along with the satisfaction of helping to save these animals from extinction.
• Give the Gift of Plastic - The National Retail Federation predicts gift cards will once again be the most requested gift this holiday season among 54.9 percent of consumers polled. Get the facts you need in order to make the most of this thoughtful and convenient gift option.