Get $24 off an iPod cover! How do they get such bargains?

The dollar store that often sells limited quantities of i-Pods for 99.99 cents at their grand openings, has gotten their hands on some i-Pod covers that normally retail for $25 and are selling them for less than a buck. So, if you received an i-Pod for Christmas, check out the selection at 99-cent Only Stores and spend less than a buck for trendy protection for your new music library.

I asked Elsy Guardado, Manager of Public Relations at 99-cent Only Stores Home Office in California, how they find such deals. "(We've) been in business for over 26 years," says Guardado. "During this time the company has developed an excellent reputation with many manufacturers and vendors. Our integrity, dependability and prompt payment are key in obtaining great purchasing opportunities."

Some of the 99-cent Only Store's major vendors include Hershey's, Coca Cola, General Mills, Heinz, Johnson & Johnson, Kraft, Proctor & Gamble, 3M, and Kimberly Clark, just to name a few. Guardado says that 99-cent Only Stores have an experienced and passionate buying team that has developed great relationships with vendors. "Our buyers search for amazing closeout opportunities and move forward with purchasing the product immediately," she says.

The selection of Classic, 3G Nano and Touch i-Pod covers varies by store and when they're gone, they're gone, at least until the next great deal comes along.

Marlene Alexander is a freelance writer and dollar store diva. She writes tips and ideas for home decorating using only items from the dollar store.