Having trouble finding a particular item? We'll try to help you locate it. Because of the volume of mail, we cannot track down every request. Write to us at Buyer's Edge Find It, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, 223 Perimeter Center Parkway N.E., Atlanta, GA 30346; email sabinem.morrow@gmail.com (include your name, the city you live in and a daytime phone number); or call 404-526-7205.
Q: I must find a source for a cake icing I had at a restaurant. They even gave me a sample to bring home. And I'm thinking this is what Pulbix uses on its decorated cakes. It comes as a liquid and must be beaten. It's not a buttercream icing, and the taste is indescribable — it's so good. It can be used as is with fresh fruit or as cake icing. The texture is similar to Cool Whip, but thicker. An iced cake will keep outside the fridge till the next day. I've never tasted anything like it. — Betty Stephens, email.
A: Rich’s makes a frozen liquid buttercream that’s available to in-store bakeries and the food service trade, which might be what you’re thinking that’s used in local stores. I found a frozen product that sounds like what you might be looking for, but I hope you plan on making a lot of desserts because it’s only available in 8-pound cartons. It’s about the same size as a gallon of milk, so the container fits in a regular freezer. The product is Dawn VelveTop vanilla, pre-whipped, non-dairy icing and filling. The directions call for whipping after it has thawed. You can use it as a garnish or to decorate cakes and desserts. It’s available at Cake Art Party Store, 3744 Lawrenceville Highway, Tucker, 770-493-1305. Simply ask someone at the counter for Dawn VelveTop; it’s stored in a freezer in the back of the store.
Q: I am looking for a free-standing DVR that I can connect to my TV and record shows on DVDs like the VCR would do on VHS tapes. I don't want one that charges a monthly fee such as TiVO's new Roamio. Years ago, I saw them in stores, but the cost prohibited me from purchasing one. Now I can't find them; probably because cable services offer the service as part of a monthly package. Are there any out there? Thanks. — Diane Dane, email
A: Diane, I have two options for the same item. Magnavox makes a 320GB HDD DVR and DVD recorder with a digital tuner (some other brands and models require an external tuner) that allows you to record television shows and movies, and also use it as you would a VCR. It doesn't require any type of subscription service. The model number is MDR533H/F7, and you can find plenty of positive reviews for the item. It's available through www.walmart.com, with free shipping to your home or free store pickup. The online price is $238. If you can't wait, then check out www.Frys.com and find a store nearest you (Milton or Duluth), and you can take a look at the identical Magnavox recorder in stock. However, it's priced at $339.
Q: I am trying to find Stan's pimento cheese, which is made near Winston-Salem, N.C. My hubby loves it, and it seems impossible to find it here in Atlanta. I don't mind driving to get it, but would prefer not to have to go all the way to North Carolina. Thanks for trying to help. — Ricki Scheer, email
A: Ricki, Stan’s pimento cheese isn’t stocked locally, but there is a way for you to get some of your favorite spread without making a day trip to another state. Kroger’s Mid-Atlantic Division (VA, WV, KY) carries Stan’s pimento cheese, but you can head to the nearest Kroger store, speak with a manager or a customer care representative and ask them to order it for you.
Q: I am a male, professional, and turn 60 this year. I have had salt-and-pepper hair color since my mid-30s, and white hair since my mid-40s. I found only one shampoo to keep my hair silvery white and avoid yellowing or dull hair. I can no longer locate Pantene Silver Expressions shampoo or the companion conditioner. When I use this product people literally stop me to compliment my hair; I have had other men pull me aside and ask what products I use. I hope you can help me locate a resource. — James R. Smith, Lilburn
A: Because Pantene Silver Expressions is so scarce locally, I found an affordable online source for you. And if you stock up and your order reaches $35, you can get free shipping. Check out www.drugstore.com and you’ll find Pantene Silver Expressions shampoo and conditioner in 13-ounce bottles for $5.99 each. If you buy two Pantene products, you’ll save $1, and you’ll notice a little box to click, which offers an online coupon that saves you an additional 75 cents. I spoke with a representative and there’s plenty of stock.
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