How to deal with rising costs of almost everything

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I see this crisis as an opportunity for the consumer to step up and assist in lightening the financial burden, for two reasons: Selfishly and personally, who wants their favorite bakery to close?

And for the benefit of the greater good, who wants more empty commercial space, more unemployment, and less tax revenue? The repercussions are many and increase exponentially.

With an increased social consciousness and the "green" efforts people are striving toward, we as consumers (who are also dealing with increased costs in food, health care, transportation and utilities) can and should do our part to reduce incremental costs which cumulatively have a big impact on our favorite bakery, store, coffee shop, you name it. Our grassroots assistance may very well be the difference in sustaining and/ or preventing closings of smaller enterprises.

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While businesses are attempting to do their part, here are some suggestions for the consumer:

1. Carry your own mug/travel mug and stop using paper cups and plastic lids (18 cents each six months ago and now 25 each) as well as cup sleeves.

For one person getting coffee five days a week, 50 weeks a year, there would be a saving of $62.50, which doesn’t even take into account the savings in handling, disposal and the resources used. Additionally, some places offer a commuter mug price or free refills when you provide your own cup.

2. If it’s your turn to get coffee for the office, crew, any group, bring a thermos or insulated carafe. The same applies if it’s your turn to get the doughnuts or other goodies. Bring a resealable container. Each of these will provide a hotter beverage and a fresher snack and give you better value for your hard-earned money.

3. Recycle your multi-cup carrier by leaving it in your vehicle and reusing it. Some places will take them back if returned. (I have a sturdy square plastic carrier with a handle that fits four cups or bottles and cost me a dollar.)

4. Take only the napkins, ketchup packets, dressing, jelly, sugar, condiments in general that you need. Although they are a cost of doing business, individually packaged or individually wrapped items are very costly.

5. If you routinely stop for a snack or sandwich, bring a carry container in which you can save leftovers and wash later (500 take-out containers were $40 six months ago; now they are $53.23).

6. Recycle your bottles to keep them out of the mainstream waste cycle and tonnage charge, and return refundable bottles, which can then be returned to vendors for credit.

7. Pick up trash, dispose of it properly, and don’t litter the premises of a small business. This saves on unnecessary employee hours.