This gets a yes from me.

millieshops · ‎03-09-2010

In my morning local paper - Publix will have special shopping hours for healthcare workers and first responders. Looks like an experiment to me - limited to an evening hour once a week and then a morning hour the next day, but if it makes life easier for those who have to work, and it keeps those of us with plenty of time out of their way, I like it. Hope it helps.

CrazyDaisy · ‎03-20-2010

Thats great for them, however they are not the only essential workers.

Someday, when scientists discover the center of the Universe....some people will be disappointed it is not them.

Laura14 · ‎06-09-2014

Looks like Thursdays 8-9pm and Fridays 7-8am

Eileen in Virginia · ‎08-25-2010

I just got an email from BJ's that they're going to have a designated shopping hour for frontline heroes on Sunday mornings from 8 to 9 (this takes the place of the senior hour on Sundays). They don't have to be BJ's members to take advantage of this. Also, first responders can sign up for a free 4-month BJ's membership. I think this is a great idea. I've used the senior hour twice since they started offering it about a month ago. Besides the fact that there are far fewer people in the store, it gives us an advantage on getting some of the items that are in high demand.

millieshops · ‎03-09-2010

@CrazyDaisyAbsolutelt true - but I think if the hours were opened to every essential worker, it would be meaningless.

Hate to pick out one "essential" job I don't see at all, but I do live in a state where professional wrestling is an essential. Just my opinion - but I want companies and people to concentrate where it will benefit the greatest number of people. I would have picked the 2 that Publix chose even though given what that company probably uses most would be truckers or even supertmarket workers.

Shanus · ‎05-17-2010

@CrazyDaisy wrote:
Thats great for them, however they are not the only essential workers.

@CrazyDaisy They work long shifts, varied hours maybe get off work when stores are no longer open. Of course, there are other essential workers. Point taken. Seniors have had special shopping hours, as well.

proudlyfromNJ · ‎05-01-2010

Many businesses are considered essential around here. Special hours for the front line essential workers are different than than lawn cutters who are also considered essential.

I think many people find it exhilarating to always argue and be contrary. It's a game to them and gives them a strange satisfaction.

CrazyDaisy · ‎03-20-2010

@Shanus wrote:
@CrazyDaisy wrote:
Thats great for them, however they are not the only essential workers.

@CrazyDaisy They work long shifts, varied hours maybe get off work when stores are no longer open. Of course, there are other essential workers. Point taken. Seniors have had special shopping hours, as well.

There are lots of essential workers that work long shifts, varried hours who miss normal store hours, they are no less vital. There are many utility workers keeping your power, water and gas running. With all this bad weather they sure could have used a break.

Someday, when scientists discover the center of the Universe....some people will be disappointed it is not them.

wildcat fan · ‎03-23-2010

@CrazyDaisy wrote:
@Shanus wrote:
@CrazyDaisy wrote:
Thats great for them, however they are not the only essential workers.

@CrazyDaisy They work long shifts, varied hours maybe get off work when stores are no longer open. Of course, there are other essential workers. Point taken. Seniors have had special shopping hours, as well.
There are lots of essential workers that work long shifts, varried hours who miss normal store hours, they are no less vital. There are many utility workers keeping your power, water and gas running. With all this bad weather they sure could have used a break.

I think you make a good point @CrazyDaisy. There are so many people working around the clock to keep things going. It would be nice if they could all be recognized in some way, but I understand that would be difficult.

For years around here, a lot of local cash registers have had signs next to them and business doors have had signs on them to indicate a special discount for first responders and other public employees. Within the last year our Walmarts have taken away all the best parking places next to accessible parking and put up signs that they are reserved for law enforcement--not just patrol cars but off-duty vehicles as well.

Just last night I was reading about some parent's criticism because she spotted her child's teacher out during the day shopping at the grocery store. Even teachers need a flexible schedule to shop for their families these days.

I think the special hours mentioned in the OP are a nice gesture. Any little bit helps. Hopefully, some stores will be able to do something for other career paths as well.