Rant: Some Pandemic Advice--Spend, Spend, Spend

In the midst of this Covid-19 crisis, health concerns have taken front stage. With nearly 80,000 Covid 19-related deaths estimated across the country, including nearly 5,000 in Massachusetts, in only a few months, there is certainly plentiful reason to be concerned. Social distancing, face masks, and other hygienic measures help to reduce the risk of spreading this infection. One of the measures has also been to significantly limit businesses, closing some down, while allowing others to offer take-out, delivery, or curbside service.

Economically, many of us have taken a hit, and there are far too many businesses that might not survive. For example, restaurants have been severely affected, as dining in has vanished for now. I certainly miss dining out, as I know most people do. Restaurant employees have been furloughed or laid off, so they aren't earning their wages. Many restaurant owners struggle to pay their bills. Plenty of other businesses, and employees, are in the same boat. There's so much uncertainty and fear, worry and dread.

Questions: How can we help? What is my pandemic advice?

Answer: Spend, spend, spend.

One of the best ways we can help our community, to help our local businesses, is to spend money at them. I know it might be tough for some who don't have extra disposable cash, but I'm directing my comments to those who have some money to spend, even if it isn't much extra. Order food from restaurants, buy flowers at the local florist, order books from a local bookshop, get wine, beer, and liquor at your local wineshop, purchase donuts and other baked goods, and so much more. Support these businesses rather than just saving all of your extra cash.

For example, I've ordered food from A Tavola in Winchester, which has an excellent Pantry where they sell a variety of delicious items, such as their Bolognese Sauce, Tomato Soup, Home-made Pastas, Pizza Kits, and more. They also have a Take-Out menu of prepared dishes as well. I've also ordered from Tonno in Wakefield, which has a Mercato, offering items such as a tray of Meatballs, Fruit & Veggie boxes, a tray of Manicotti, Bolognese Sauce, Steak Tips, and plenty of prepared foods too. These are great places to shop rather than the large grocery stores, and you generally don't have to wait in any long line. Plus, the quality of the food is high.

Plus, I'm pleased that Kane's Donuts is still open, and this is a great time for one of their Honey-Glazed Coffee Rolls. I've also gotten take-out and delivery from several, small local restaurants to me, such as Hong Kong City, Amore Pizza, and Alfredo's Italian Kitchen. As for non-food related items, I've also ordered books and other items from independent creatives as I know many authors are having economic difficulties at this time too. There are few, if any, small businesses which haven't been negatively affected by the current crisis.

Every bit helps, no matter how small. Spend what you can, trying to help local businesses. Tip generously. We need to help each other as we are all part of a greater community, and if we lose some of these local businesses, we all suffer. Please, please try to help each other and spend more during these times.