Q How can I lower my cable or satellite TV bill?

A You could cancel completely and "regress" to an antenna. Antennas, which can be put in the attic, garage or on the roof, offer local high-definition channels. To see if an antenna will work in your location and to read reviews of antennas, try www.startribune.com/a86. You can also downgrade to Comcast's Basic 1 service for about $15 a month (channels 2-23 only) or Dish Network's "welcome pack" for $15 a month for about 20 channels. Dish also offers a Latino version for the same price. If you have tried using only an antenna for TV reception, let me know how it's worked for you. I'll do a follow-up in February.

Free directory helpQ Do you have a replacement for the now-defunct 1-800-GOOG-411? I want free directory assistance.

A Use 1-800-FREE-411 (1-800-373-3411) or 1-800-411-METRO (6387[6]). You have to listen to brief advertisements, but they're free.

Get restaurant dealsQ I missed out on the bonus gift cards that Twin Cities restaurants offered in December. Got any new deals?

A Mystic Lake Casino's buffet (2400 Prior Lake Blvd., Prior Lake, 952-445-9000, www.mysticlake.com) brings back its popular buy-one-get-one-free offer Monday through Jan. 31. The offer is valid for weekend brunch ($14), lunch ($10) or dinner ($17), but it is not valid on Wednesday evenings or on the night of Jan. 29, which are seafood buffet nights. Single guests can get half off the regular buffet price with the coupon, which is available only at the website. Copies of the coupon are also accepted. Even picky eaters should be able to find something pleasing among the 40 entrees and 24 desserts.

Where to donateQ You suggested donating tattered clothing and shoes at the for-profit USAgain dropoff boxes because many charities don't want it. Is this true of all charities?

A No. Some charities such as Value Village can sell tattered clothing to recyclers just as USAgain does. Ask your favorite charity before donating torn, stained or threadbare clothing or shoes, so you don't add to its garbage bill.

John Ewoldt • 612-673-7633 or jewoldt@startribune.com