I’m one of many organizers for a huge meetup group. They’ve been posting new events as recently as yesterday. I messaged the group chat asking for thoughts, and they said no new events are being scheduled, and events in the next two weeks are likely cancelled. They’re still more optimistic about recovery time, with one event postponed to the end of April, but it’s better than nothing!
7 Likes
I’m just across the water from you in Michigan. 
We have a large casino that just closed, the next town over closed their county building… but yeah… definitely going to be weird to not see her for a while!
1 Like
PSA for anyone intending to order groceries. I just ended up getting a Shipt membership because it was the only way to get Lidl delivery (even with membership my groceries are cheapest there) and I had to keep refreshing in order to get a delivery day option. Instacart delivery estimates are booked until the weekend here so if you will be doing delivery you might want to place your order now. Most places let you add to your order up until they start shopping for it so you can always add to it if you need.
I’ve got a referral code if anyone wants one for Shipt, I’m sure others have them for other services if you’re going to use them it might be worth asking, after all this is a money forum!
7 Likes
Well. Looks like the Bay Area is about to go to official shelter-in-place mode.
I’m not in any of the affected counties but my workplace and most of my coworkers are.
This feels a little bit grim.
12 Likes
I… can’t exactly say I feel good about this, but I think it’s a better response than we’ve had so far and I hope it makes a significant difference.
9 Likes
I’m having a hard time with supporting businesses that are good to their employees/ aren’t the devil.
I want a TV, and was planning on buying one anyways. I called two small local places and asked if I could pay over the phone or otherwise remotely and have them bring the TV to the car. Very firm no, they want me in the store. One guy started upselling me over the phone. Nope.
Then I started trying to figure out where I can most ethically buy groceries ahead and have them brought to my car. Only the big box places.
None of these big places deserve my money. I want to be supporting small and local. But also I need some additional service and that isn’t possible outside of the big guys.
Sigh.
Looks like I’m buying from walmart.
12 Likes
Is TaskRabbit/grocery delivery that’s not associated directly with the store a Thing where you are?
Are there any mutual aid actions in your city? I’m signed up on multiple lists now for this exact purpose – to be someone who can get people things like groceries when they need them. I know I’d be happy to hit up particular stores for people, including small and local ones.
ETA: Also, I’m sorry this is such a hassle. It’s hard when values conflict as directly as they do here.
3 Likes
There aren’t taskrabbit type things here.
I can call in favours and friends will happily help, but this is a marathon, not a sprint. I’m hoarding that social goodwill for when we are stuck. If buying from walmart is the worst thing that happens I will be ok. I just really wanted a more palatable alternative, you know?
15 Likes
Balls. (Then again, probably not entirely, since the gig economy ain’t the greatest.)
That’s very understandable. 
1 Like
8 Likes
The governor just closed all non-essential things. This includes liquor stores. Welcome to a dry St Patrick’s, PA!
5 Likes
It’s like they don’t know that liquor stores are usually counter-cyclical in a recession.
4 Likes
Way to make people freak out more!!!
2 Likes
What about ordering online and having it delivered? We did that with our tv.
I understand why they won’t take a card number over the phone, because if it’s a fraudulent transaction the retailer would be liable for the amount. The assume the risk, and the card companies won’t help them particularly if it’s in their contracts. I know it’s shitty and doesn’t help your situation.
2 Likes
Good call!! And EatStreet just sent an email out this morning saying they are doing zero dollar deliveries (but saying please still tip your driver)
1 Like
Shit, that’s the first thing that has awakened my panic buying impulse and I even have most of a handle of rum on hand.
4 Likes
Does anyone know the answer to if it’s better to have something delivered to my house vs. ordering it at Walmart for curb side delivery? The items are not things local businesses have.
2 Likes
Please consider signing this petition (IB is like AP in the United States). My friend posted the following:
My niece, an International Baccalaureate Senior (fancy international curriculum governed by an international organization) and all the her fellow IB Seniors, potentially WILL NOT be able to graduate High School if the International Baccalaureate Organization does not reschedule its required final exams for those in areas impacted by COVID-19. They’re currently refusing to do so because only select geographic areas are currently impacted, but as we know, this is a global pandemic. She’s currently worried about not being able to graduate and that her college admissions are also being put in jeopardy. Colleges and universities will hopefully be understanding in this situation, but the IBO is not being very compassionate at the moment. Please read and sign to put pressure on them to reconsider their policy. Thank you!
3 Likes
That link took me directly to the “Share the petition” page like I had already signed it. Try this instead: http://chng.it/nZ8x5pS5vY
Signed!
2 Likes
Thanks!