Well, here in Toms River we usually are somewhat insulated from some worst things going on in society, but the bad economic "big picture" has shown up on our doorstep. Many small businesspeople in the area are really hurting...these are our friends and neighbors, and Riverguy is going to try to buy as much as he can locally from our area merchants...rather than online or from a large company.
I would also say to local businesses....give us a helping hand, if possible, by providing discounts or lower prices where you can. For example, it is amazing how many restaurants around here still have the same prices on entrees (or higher) that they did a couple of years ago during the "boom" time. It is still hard for two people to go to a good sit-down dinner and come away with a bill and tip of under $50. Please provide a few more less expensive entrees for those of us who want to come to your place for dinner, but have a limited budget in these tough times.
Also, it seems to me that as things worsen, the crime rate is going up. We're likely to see more robberies, scams, and muggings. The "good" people are going to have to learn to watch out for each other. Check up on older neighbors...they are especially vulnerable. Let's help each other get through this trying time!!
