by Colin McEwen
Reporter
Stow -- Joe "The Coupon Guy" Daugirdas recently purchased $444 worth of groceries for less than $50.
On another occasion, Daugirdas received $41 of groceries, but he did not pay for them. In fact, his savings were so great, they gave him $7.02 back.
Daugirdas, a Willoughby Hills resident, will show local residents his shopping secrets when he visits the Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library March 14.
Library Public Relations Coordinator Ann Malthaner said she saw Daugirdas when he appeared on a local news program.
"He's such an interesting man, and an incredibly good speaker," she said. "I knew we had to get him for our patrons."
Malthaner said she learned Daugirdas had done a presentation at the Twinsburg library and "completely filled the house."
Daugirdas said he has been using his coupon skills to save more than $10,000 a year -- for more than 10 years. Now he teaches others.
"I have been getting pretty good turnouts," he said. " I guess people want to know how they can save a couple of bucks."
Daugirdas said he gives tips and shortcuts about how to more effectively use coupons to save between 70 percent to 90 percent on groceries.
He has become a local celebrity, helping hundreds throughout Northeast Ohio, appearing in newspapers, television programs and radio shows.
"I try to make the classes fun," said Daugirdas. "It's nice to be able to help people out."
Registration for the event began Feb. 12 and will continue until the 95 available spots are filled, said Malthaner. The presentation, which will take place March 14 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., is free and open to the public.
Daugirdas said he expects to have a full crowd, based on the attendance of other classes.
"This is really easy -- almost a game -- seeing how much money can be saved," he said.
For more information or to register for the event, call 330-688-3295.
E-mail: cmcewen@recordpub.com
Phone: 330-686-3916