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THE MORNING RANT: Instacart Allowed Pricing Based on Who You Are Rather than What You’re Buying
If the price depends on who you are instead of what you’re buying, that’s not capitalism. https://t.co/GkNrG3L4Bs
— Michele Reneau (@repreneau) December 23, 2025
Comments
(Jump to bottom of comments)1
Price discrimination is illegal.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at January 02, 2026 11:01 AM (0U5gm)
2
ST!
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 02, 2026 11:01 AM (meWdL)
3
Damn.
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 02, 2026 11:01 AM (meWdL)
4
We are in a political battle against the siren song of socialism. It is imperative, therefore, that those in executive positions in corporate America stop engaging in amoral practices to mine the last possible dollar of revenue from customers. Doing so provides ammunition to the enemies of economic freedom.
Wut?
Wut?
Posted by: The Big Three and John Deere at January 02, 2026 11:02 AM (Riz8t)
5
FIRST!!!!!
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 11:02 AM (Zz0t1)
6
I'm going to test this out with my wife on Amazon and Walmart.... the only two places we "shop online."
Posted by: Martini Farmer at January 02, 2026 11:03 AM (NwnyJ)
7
That'll teach me to peruse the ONT......
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 11:03 AM (Zz0t1)
8
Nooded.
Posted by: Nazdar at January 02, 2026 11:03 AM (NcvvS)
9
SPONGE!!!
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 02, 2026 11:04 AM (meWdL)
10
I would call it the white tax, but that’s probably too restrictive.
Posted by: tubal at January 02, 2026 11:05 AM (pDt9x)
11
Guess I should get up and do something productive like take down Christmas crap.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:05 AM (VCgbV)
12
This is why we drive wifey's Explorer when I buy new carpet.
Posted by: Cicero (@cicero43) at January 02, 2026 11:05 AM (nWPIJ)
13
more upright bass music please !
Posted by: alpine_beer at January 02, 2026 11:05 AM (van9r)
14
It is imperative, therefore, that those in executive positions in corporate America stop engaging in amoral practices to mine the last possible dollar of revenue from customers. Doing so provides ammunition to the enemies of economic freedom.
Posted by: Buck Throckmorton at 11:00 AM
Are we really sure those aren't the same people these days?
Posted by: Buck Throckmorton at 11:00 AM
Are we really sure those aren't the same people these days?
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 02, 2026 11:05 AM (meWdL)
15
Just tell them you're a Somali refugee.
Posted by: Dr. Pork Chops & Bacons at January 02, 2026 11:05 AM (g8Ew8)
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 11:06 AM (Zz0t1)
17
Guess I should get up and do something productive like take down Christmas crap.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:05 AM
While it's still Christmas?!
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:05 AM
While it's still Christmas?!
Posted by: RedMindBlueState at January 02, 2026 11:07 AM (meWdL)
18
And the kids still wonder why I fight so hard to keep my data out of corporate hands.
"They've got it all already, so why worry?"
"They've got it all already, so why worry?"
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:07 AM (Riz8t)
19
Guess I should get up and do something productive like take down Christmas crap.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:05 AM (VCgbV)
I don't have a lot of decorations out, but they're still out.
I might care this afternoon and put them away.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:05 AM (VCgbV)
I don't have a lot of decorations out, but they're still out.
I might care this afternoon and put them away.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 11:07 AM (Zz0t1)
20
Here in Nashville area Krogers has discontinued their own delivery service. From now on it's Insta Cart directly from the store.
Posted by: Tuna at January 02, 2026 11:07 AM (lJ0H4)
21
Guess I should get up and do something productive like take down Christmas crap.
My wife insists on infesting our house with cheap, crappy little snowmen. I hate them. I hate them so much.
My wife insists on infesting our house with cheap, crappy little snowmen. I hate them. I hate them so much.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:08 AM (Riz8t)
22
Airlines and hotels provide an example of legal price discrimination. If you book months out and pay for the spot, you pay a lower price, if you book a few weeks out, you pay a higher price, but similar due to the time value of money. If you book a few days out, you may pay an even higher price, as fewer spots are available (supply and demand). When the event is a day or two away, the price may drop again to try and fill empty slots (again supply and demand).
This is very different than two different prices for the same item at the same time, only differentiated by who is doing the buying.
This is very different than two different prices for the same item at the same time, only differentiated by who is doing the buying.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at January 02, 2026 11:08 AM (0U5gm)
23
My wife insists on infesting our house with cheap, crappy little snowmen. I hate them. I hate them so much.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:08 AM (Riz8t)
Daughter got me the Die Hard vent Christmas ornament this year, so I'm tempted to leave the tree up a little longer.
My wife insists on infesting our house with cheap, crappy little snowmen. I hate them. I hate them so much.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:08 AM (Riz8t)
Daughter got me the Die Hard vent Christmas ornament this year, so I'm tempted to leave the tree up a little longer.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 11:09 AM (Zz0t1)
24
Yep, saw that video too.
Do not use Instacart. Do not shop at grocery stores that have digital price tags.
I'd say don't use airlines either but that's harder to arrange.
Do not use Instacart. Do not shop at grocery stores that have digital price tags.
I'd say don't use airlines either but that's harder to arrange.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at January 02, 2026 11:09 AM (xcxpd)
25
My wife insists on infesting our house with cheap, crappy little snowmen. I hate them. I hate them so much.
----------
You have to go to sleep sometime buster.
----------
You have to go to sleep sometime buster.
Posted by: A Cheap Crappy Snowmab at January 02, 2026 11:09 AM (nWPIJ)
26
My wife insists on infesting our house with cheap, crappy little snowmen. I hate them. I hate them so much.
Posted by: Archimedes
Turn the heat up, problem solved.
Posted by: Archimedes
Turn the heat up, problem solved.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at January 02, 2026 11:09 AM (0U5gm)
27
Put them out of business. Immediately, as an example to others. Class action, total sale of assets, distribute to previous customers proportionately. Limit lawyers to 10%, it's a no brainer case.
For the airlines and others, massive fines, one strike only.
For the airlines and others, massive fines, one strike only.
Posted by: From about That Time at January 02, 2026 11:10 AM (sl73Y)
28
Guess I should get up and do something productive like take down Christmas crap.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended
Took mine down yesterday. Putting them up is always a joy. Taking them down is always kind of depressing.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended
Took mine down yesterday. Putting them up is always a joy. Taking them down is always kind of depressing.
Posted by: Tuna at January 02, 2026 11:10 AM (lJ0H4)
29
I saw Cheap Crappy Snowmab open for Trans Siberian Orchestra at Reunion Arena in '08.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 11:10 AM (Zz0t1)
30
I dunno if I’m about to set my hair on fire over this. Instacart provides a voluntary service. First off nobody is forced to use it.
I don’t see why it can’t charge for that service using a set of criteria including buyer personas. As long as that criteria doesn’t include illegal things like race , religion, etc I don’t really see the problem here.
Car dealers sell the same car 100 times a month and each time the price is different based on how well a buyer negotiates. As well as different rebates and incentives that are available to some buyers but not others. Are you a recent college grad? You get $500 off. Are you in the military? You get $500 off. Are you a member of these organizations? $750 off. Do you drive an Chevy? , This month you get $1000 off if you buy a Ford. And so on. Are we going to ban all that as well?
I don’t see why it can’t charge for that service using a set of criteria including buyer personas. As long as that criteria doesn’t include illegal things like race , religion, etc I don’t really see the problem here.
Car dealers sell the same car 100 times a month and each time the price is different based on how well a buyer negotiates. As well as different rebates and incentives that are available to some buyers but not others. Are you a recent college grad? You get $500 off. Are you in the military? You get $500 off. Are you a member of these organizations? $750 off. Do you drive an Chevy? , This month you get $1000 off if you buy a Ford. And so on. Are we going to ban all that as well?
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 11:11 AM (/CkK4)
31
Instacart Allowed Pricing Based on Who You Are Rather than What You’re Buying
Now do college tuition.
Now do college tuition.
Posted by: The ARC of History! at January 02, 2026 11:11 AM (xTIDn)
32
I leave the tree and decorations up until Epiphany.
Posted by: Bulg at January 02, 2026 11:11 AM (77rzZ)
33
I wonder about airlines. I don't fly much but when I do, it is typically to the same destinations. I priced a flight for in the spring and it was over $100 more than when I made the same flight in October.
Posted by: Diogenes at January 02, 2026 11:12 AM (2WIwB)
34
: Instacart Allowed Pricing Based on Who You Are Rather than What You’re Buying
====
Well, yeah. Based on your social credit score.
-CCP
====
Well, yeah. Based on your social credit score.
-CCP
Posted by: San Franpsycho at January 02, 2026 11:12 AM (RIvkX)
35
The new neighbor lady just dropped off some biscotti for the New Year.
I didn't even have to do any sketchy things for them.
And I would have.
I didn't even have to do any sketchy things for them.
And I would have.
Posted by: Tonypete at January 02, 2026 11:12 AM (cYBz/)
36
Instacart Allowed Pricing Based on Who You Are Rather than What You’re Buying
Amazon experimented with this briefly, and to their credit decided that it was a Bad Idea.
Amazon experimented with this briefly, and to their credit decided that it was a Bad Idea.
Posted by: The ARC of History! at January 02, 2026 11:13 AM (xTIDn)
37
The new neighbor lady just dropped off some biscotti for the New Year.
I didn't even have to do any sketchy things for them.
And I would have.
Posted by: Tonypete at January 02, 2026 11:12 AM (cYBz/)
"Please to be sending pics of bobs and vagene...."
I didn't even have to do any sketchy things for them.
And I would have.
Posted by: Tonypete at January 02, 2026 11:12 AM (cYBz/)
"Please to be sending pics of bobs and vagene...."
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 11:13 AM (Zz0t1)
38
Instacart Allowed Pricing Based on Who You Are Rather than What You’re Buying
====
Well, yeah. Based on your social credit score.
-CCP
That's nothing. We fix your house or not depending on your politics.
====
Well, yeah. Based on your social credit score.
-CCP
That's nothing. We fix your house or not depending on your politics.
Posted by: Biden's FEMA at January 02, 2026 11:13 AM (Riz8t)
39
I've wondered about this a lot during the Great Awakening. Can society even function without deception and fudge factors? Lawyers, politicians, education, salesmen, marketers, advertising, pharma, medicine... I don't even know if the list stops.
Posted by: t-bird at January 02, 2026 11:14 AM (ZKbri)
40
Took mine down yesterday. Putting them up is always a joy. Taking them down is always kind of depressing.
Posted by: Tuna at January 02, 2026 11:10 AM (lJ0H4)
But it's only 356 days until this next Christmas. Leave everything up. The time will pass quickly.
Posted by: Tuna at January 02, 2026 11:10 AM (lJ0H4)
But it's only 356 days until this next Christmas. Leave everything up. The time will pass quickly.
Posted by: Dr. Pork Chops & Bacons at January 02, 2026 11:14 AM (g8Ew8)
41
For at least more than a decade amazon will adjust prices dynamically doing the exact same thing. In fact, they will adjust the price on the same thing for the same customer if they look at an item and then come back at a later time. I thought all online retailers do all this and worse. I sometimes use a price history thing like camelcamelcamel to really see how prices change.
Posted by: banana Dream at January 02, 2026 11:14 AM (3uBP9)
42
33 I wonder about airlines. I don't fly much but when I do, it is typically to the same destinations. I priced a flight for in the spring and it was over $100 more than when I made the same flight in October.
----------
If you quizzed every passenger sitting in coach on what their ticket cost, you wouldn't get two of the same answer.
----------
If you quizzed every passenger sitting in coach on what their ticket cost, you wouldn't get two of the same answer.
Posted by: Cicero (@cicero43) at January 02, 2026 11:14 AM (nWPIJ)
43
Let's say you run a plumbing business. Or HVAC. Or roofing.
You know damn well the price you're going to quote definitely depends on the neighborhood you're in.
The small 1000 square foot brick salt box homes built in the 50s? 5 grand.
The well to do 2600 square foot two story front hall colonial with hip roof and architectural shingles built in the 80s? 10 grand.
You know damn well the price you're going to quote definitely depends on the neighborhood you're in.
The small 1000 square foot brick salt box homes built in the 50s? 5 grand.
The well to do 2600 square foot two story front hall colonial with hip roof and architectural shingles built in the 80s? 10 grand.
Posted by: Harry Homeowner at January 02, 2026 11:14 AM (2Ez/1)
44
My wife insists on infesting our house with cheap, crappy little snowmen. I hate them. I hate them so much.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:08 AM (Riz8t)
May I be of some assistance? Inspiration, even?
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:08 AM (Riz8t)
May I be of some assistance? Inspiration, even?
Posted by: Calvin at January 02, 2026 11:14 AM (6Ga6M)
45
Car dealers sell the same car 100 times a month and each time the price is different based on how well a buyer negotiates. As well as different rebates and incentives that are available to some buyers but not others. Are you a recent college grad? You get $500 off. Are you in the military? You get $500 off. Are you a member of these organizations? $750 off. Do you drive an Chevy? , This month you get $1000 off if you buy a Ford. And so on. Are we going to ban all that as well?
Posted by: Really??
Auto purchases are almost always negotiated, so it is not the same as fixed pricing at grocery stores.
Posted by: Really??
Auto purchases are almost always negotiated, so it is not the same as fixed pricing at grocery stores.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at January 02, 2026 11:14 AM (0U5gm)
46
Instacart Allowed Pricing Based on Who You Are Rather than What You’re Buying
Well, yeah. If she's hot.
Well, yeah. If she's hot.
Posted by: t-bird at January 02, 2026 11:14 AM (ZKbri)
47
I remember Dennis Prager saying many times over the years: Big corporations are not your friend. They’re amoral… anything to make a buck. Don’t trust ‘em!
Posted by: LinusVanPelt at January 02, 2026 11:15 AM (xT8gx)
48
We are in a political battle against the siren song of socialism. It is imperative, therefore, that those in executive positions in corporate America stop engaging in amoral practices to mine the last possible dollar of revenue from customers. Doing so provides ammunition to the enemies of economic freedom.
________
What in the world makes you think the leaders of corporate America are interested in economic freedom? (Or any other kind?) Their own freedom to get what they want, and to feel good about themselves, are all they give a damn about.
________
What in the world makes you think the leaders of corporate America are interested in economic freedom? (Or any other kind?) Their own freedom to get what they want, and to feel good about themselves, are all they give a damn about.
Posted by: Eeyore at January 02, 2026 11:15 AM (s0JqF)
Posted by: thug dolphin at January 02, 2026 11:16 AM (EyfuW)
50
47 I remember Dennis Prager saying many times over the years: Big corporations are not your friend. They’re amoral… anything to make a buck. Don’t trust ‘em!
Posted by: LinusVanPelt at January 02, 2026 11:15 AM (xT8gx)
======
They're not even that.
They're social clubs and grounds of experiments for their leaders, the lower rungs of the corporate ladder making money despite their leaders.
Posted by: LinusVanPelt at January 02, 2026 11:15 AM (xT8gx)
======
They're not even that.
They're social clubs and grounds of experiments for their leaders, the lower rungs of the corporate ladder making money despite their leaders.
Posted by: TheJamesMadison, seeing life through the shadows with Otto Preminger at January 02, 2026 11:16 AM (GBKbO)
51
I' Can society even function without deception and fudge factors?
Posted by: t-bird at January 02, 2026 11:14 AM (ZKbri)
That's hot!
Posted by: t-bird at January 02, 2026 11:14 AM (ZKbri)
That's hot!
Posted by: Pete Buttigieg at January 02, 2026 11:16 AM (Zz0t1)
52
I would like to give the people responsible for this a chance to explain themselves before we set them on fire.
Posted by: NR Pax at January 02, 2026 11:17 AM (7xrfc)
53
I don't have that much Christmas stuff up. Garland on the staircase railing and around the door. Fake tree, some stockings and stuff on the mantle. Now that the kids are older they don't care so I don't bother. Maybe 2 bins of stuff. I already took the ornaments off the tree.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:17 AM (VCgbV)
54
Airline pricing is so strange. It's not unusual for a fare from A to B to cost less if you're connecting to C than if B was your destination. Booking the second leg can actually save you money.
Posted by: Cicero (@cicero43) at January 02, 2026 11:17 AM (nWPIJ)
55
Insurance works this way.
22 year old with an accident pays waaaaay more for the same coverage as a 50 year old with a spotless driving record.
22 year old with an accident pays waaaaay more for the same coverage as a 50 year old with a spotless driving record.
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 11:18 AM (/CkK4)
56
Brad Pitt is actually a decent actor, he's not just good looking.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:00 AM (VCgbV)
Fun in Twelve Monkeys and Snatch in particular.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:00 AM (VCgbV)
Fun in Twelve Monkeys and Snatch in particular.
Posted by: ... at January 02, 2026 11:18 AM (E0p3T)
57
52 I would like to give the people responsible for this a chance to explain themselves before we set them on fire.
Posted by: NR Pax at January 02, 2026 11:17 AM (7xrfc)
Well that's simple: they want to milk as much money out of people as possible. People who don't count their pennies will get more pennies stolen from them.
Posted by: NR Pax at January 02, 2026 11:17 AM (7xrfc)
Well that's simple: they want to milk as much money out of people as possible. People who don't count their pennies will get more pennies stolen from them.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at January 02, 2026 11:18 AM (xcxpd)
58
I used Instacart a handful of times during the Covid Mania. Not because I was afraid to go shopping, but because of the mask mandates and because I hated being aroung maskholes And, I hated it. Never seemed to get what I actually ordered. Just a big pain in the ass.
Now that this shizzle is happening, I shant ever use it again. No, I shannot.
Now that this shizzle is happening, I shant ever use it again. No, I shannot.
Posted by: Delurker at January 02, 2026 11:18 AM (xNHSX)
59
Car dealers sell the same car 100 times a month and each time the price is different based on how well a buyer negotiates. As well as different rebates and incentives that are available to some buyers but not others. Are you a recent college grad? You get $500 off. Are you in the military? You get $500 off. Are you a member of these organizations? $750 off. Do you drive an Chevy? , This month you get $1000 off if you buy a Ford. And so on. Are we going to ban all that as well?
Posted by: Really??
---
^^^THIS^^^ is why I DETEST buying cars!!!
Posted by: Really??
---
^^^THIS^^^ is why I DETEST buying cars!!!
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:18 AM (VCgbV)
Posted by: Bad Andrew at January 02, 2026 11:19 AM (DgMqy)
61
The best Christmas decorations belong to other people.
Posted by: Quarter Twenty at January 02, 2026 11:19 AM (2Ez/1)
62
Airline tickets and hotel reservations... I don't think the price changes are totally dependent on the date you make them. For example, I've looked at hotel room prices, looked at a few different places, then come back to "the cheaper" one or whatever... and it's now $12 more.
This isn't the next day. It's like 10 minutes later. In 10 minutes the place is now nearly booked?
Horseshit.
This isn't the next day. It's like 10 minutes later. In 10 minutes the place is now nearly booked?
Horseshit.
Posted by: Martini Farmer at January 02, 2026 11:19 AM (NwnyJ)
63
Some Walmart stores have "digital" price displays.
Of course, they claim it's so they can more quickly give you the best possible price.
Reality?
They're tracking you around the store.*
They have your whole shopping history in a file.**
If you pass the item a second time, the price has gone up.
To emotionally and psychologically exploit you with false scarcity.
* do you know why your store keeps re-arraigning? All those cameras track every customer and purchase. The changes are to funnel targets past items they want them to buy.
** credit/debit card of course. But now, they have AI at even the self-check out that "finds" you even if you pay cash
Of course, they claim it's so they can more quickly give you the best possible price.
Reality?
They're tracking you around the store.*
They have your whole shopping history in a file.**
If you pass the item a second time, the price has gone up.
To emotionally and psychologically exploit you with false scarcity.
* do you know why your store keeps re-arraigning? All those cameras track every customer and purchase. The changes are to funnel targets past items they want them to buy.
** credit/debit card of course. But now, they have AI at even the self-check out that "finds" you even if you pay cash
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice at January 02, 2026 11:20 AM (HXT0k)
64
60 32 I leave the tree and decorations up until Epiphany.
Me 2.
Posted by: Bad Andrew at January 02, 2026 11:19 AM (DgMqy)
---------
Why not go full Valentines Day?
Me 2.
Posted by: Bad Andrew at January 02, 2026 11:19 AM (DgMqy)
---------
Why not go full Valentines Day?
Posted by: Cicero (@cicero43) at January 02, 2026 11:20 AM (nWPIJ)
65
Good way to sneak in "reparations". Pay disfavored employees less, charge disfavored customers more.
Posted by: ... at January 02, 2026 11:20 AM (E0p3T)
66
There ought to be a law!
Oh wait... no. There shouldn't.
It blows my mind when so-called conservatives are always so quick to turn to the government to fix their private interactions.
Buy from Instacart. Or don't.
There. Problem solved.
Oh wait... no. There shouldn't.
It blows my mind when so-called conservatives are always so quick to turn to the government to fix their private interactions.
Buy from Instacart. Or don't.
There. Problem solved.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 02, 2026 11:20 AM (dGCAG)
67
Maybe I'm stupid, but can't you defeat this by going to the grocery store and buying groceries for yourself, in person, like normal people did up until ten minutes ago?
Posted by: Possibly Dumb at January 02, 2026 11:21 AM (4PEtT)
68
Why not go full Valentines Day?
I might just do that! I like crazy ideas!
The Missus will just have to deal with it. lol
I might just do that! I like crazy ideas!
The Missus will just have to deal with it. lol
Posted by: Bad Andrew at January 02, 2026 11:21 AM (DgMqy)
69
St Patrick's Day trees, anyone?
Posted by: Count de Monet at January 02, 2026 11:22 AM (6Ga6M)
70
In a tweet, my Tennessee state representative, Michele Reneau, succinctly summed up just how offensive this Instacart initiative was, ”If the price depends on who you are instead of what you’re buying, that’s not capitalism.”
++++
It could be worse. In this kind of scheme, you can pretend to be something you're not. Don't use accounts with the same E-Mail address to shop at multiple stores. Use fake phone numbers for club memberships. Refuse cookies at all times. Use different mobile phones for different apps. Expensive and difficult and imperfect, but you can try to game it if you want to.
When I covered this, Instacart said that this is what they are NOT doing. It isn't based on profile or other factors. If this is true - and I doubt very much that it is, but consider the possibility - it is in fact even worse. If pricing is actually *random* rather than cynical, there is no way to game it.
++++
It could be worse. In this kind of scheme, you can pretend to be something you're not. Don't use accounts with the same E-Mail address to shop at multiple stores. Use fake phone numbers for club memberships. Refuse cookies at all times. Use different mobile phones for different apps. Expensive and difficult and imperfect, but you can try to game it if you want to.
When I covered this, Instacart said that this is what they are NOT doing. It isn't based on profile or other factors. If this is true - and I doubt very much that it is, but consider the possibility - it is in fact even worse. If pricing is actually *random* rather than cynical, there is no way to game it.
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 11:23 AM (avHHk)
71
^^^THIS^^^ is why I DETEST buying cars!!!
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:18 AM (VCgbV)
There are options like Tesla where the price is set and non negotiable. Or CarMax for used cars.
I remember reading a study on this where people in general said they hated buying cars because of all the games. But then when some dealerships went to the no haggle model a lot of them abandoned that practice because buyers felt they were getting ripped off without the ability to negotiate.
Autonation is almost 100% haggle free. But even there they will find some wiggle room if you push hard enough and they want to move a unit that day.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:18 AM (VCgbV)
There are options like Tesla where the price is set and non negotiable. Or CarMax for used cars.
I remember reading a study on this where people in general said they hated buying cars because of all the games. But then when some dealerships went to the no haggle model a lot of them abandoned that practice because buyers felt they were getting ripped off without the ability to negotiate.
Autonation is almost 100% haggle free. But even there they will find some wiggle room if you push hard enough and they want to move a unit that day.
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 11:23 AM (/CkK4)
72
66 There ought to be a law!
Oh wait... no. There shouldn't.
It blows my mind when so-called conservatives are always so quick to turn to the government to fix their private interactions.
Buy from Instacart. Or don't.
There. Problem solved.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 02, 2026 11:20 AM (dGCAG)
Instacart is the voluntary 'camel nose' in this scenario. The next step is digital pricing where the shop is dynamically adjusting prices to maximize profit.
Related danger is YOU getting different prices than your neighbor because you might be willing to pay more.
Oh wait... no. There shouldn't.
It blows my mind when so-called conservatives are always so quick to turn to the government to fix their private interactions.
Buy from Instacart. Or don't.
There. Problem solved.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 02, 2026 11:20 AM (dGCAG)
Instacart is the voluntary 'camel nose' in this scenario. The next step is digital pricing where the shop is dynamically adjusting prices to maximize profit.
Related danger is YOU getting different prices than your neighbor because you might be willing to pay more.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at January 02, 2026 11:23 AM (xcxpd)
73
There ought to be a law!
Oh wait... no. There shouldn't.
It blows my mind when so-called conservatives are always so quick to turn to the government to fix their private interactions.
Buy from Instacart. Or don't.
There. Problem solved.
Posted by: BurtTC
There actually is a law. The Robinson Patman Act of 1936.
Oh wait... no. There shouldn't.
It blows my mind when so-called conservatives are always so quick to turn to the government to fix their private interactions.
Buy from Instacart. Or don't.
There. Problem solved.
Posted by: BurtTC
There actually is a law. The Robinson Patman Act of 1936.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at January 02, 2026 11:23 AM (0U5gm)
74
Last time I booked a hotel room, I accidently booked a room for disabled persons. I didn't realize it till I got to the door of the room. I had been wondering why the desk clerk kept looking at me funny! He must have been trying to figure what about me was disabled.
I was visiting my brother, who had met me at the hotel. We had a good laugh over it. Well, HE did, as I was the butt of a slew of tard jokes during that trip.
But hey, the bathroom was YUGE!
I was visiting my brother, who had met me at the hotel. We had a good laugh over it. Well, HE did, as I was the butt of a slew of tard jokes during that trip.
But hey, the bathroom was YUGE!
Posted by: Delurker at January 02, 2026 11:24 AM (xNHSX)
75
It blows my mind when so-called conservatives are always so quick to turn to the government to fix their private interactions.
Buy from Instacart. Or don't.
There. Problem solved.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 02, 2026 11:20 AM (dGCAG)
I want investigations and punishments if existing laws are broken.
Is what Instacart doing against the law? Punish them.
But, we can't even seem to go after companies that are hiring illegal aliens, so......
It blows my mind when so-called conservatives are always so quick to turn to the government to fix their private interactions.
Buy from Instacart. Or don't.
There. Problem solved.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 02, 2026 11:20 AM (dGCAG)
I want investigations and punishments if existing laws are broken.
Is what Instacart doing against the law? Punish them.
But, we can't even seem to go after companies that are hiring illegal aliens, so......
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 11:24 AM (Zz0t1)
76
Hey. It's called Arbor Day for a reason.
Posted by: Duh at January 02, 2026 11:24 AM (2Ez/1)
77
I have 2 spawn working at H‑E‑B so it cuts down on me having to actually go grocery shopping.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:24 AM (VCgbV)
78
67 Maybe I'm stupid, but can't you defeat this by going to the grocery store and buying groceries for yourself, in person, like normal people did up until ten minutes ago?
Posted by: Possibly Dumb at January 02, 2026 11:21 AM (4PEtT)
OK Boomer!!
Posted by: Possibly Dumb at January 02, 2026 11:21 AM (4PEtT)
OK Boomer!!
Posted by: GenZ and Milenials at January 02, 2026 11:24 AM (/CkK4)
79
There actually is a law. The Robinson Patman Act of 1936.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at January 02, 2026 11:23 AM (0U5gm)
Then it should be repealed.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at January 02, 2026 11:23 AM (0U5gm)
Then it should be repealed.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 02, 2026 11:24 AM (dGCAG)
80
Weren't there some predictions made here last year? Did I miss the results post?
Posted by: WTP at January 02, 2026 11:24 AM (vtC5P)
81
Buy from Instacart. Or don't.
There. Problem solved.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 02, 2026 11:20 AM (dGCAG)
Like many good theories, it's true in theory, but as we've seen with the takeover of entertainment and to an extent medical insurance, once zealots get in charge of an entire industry you as the "customer" are stuck. Once zealots take charge of food, and they have done it in many ways through abuse of farmers in western countries along with other means, the "customer" is stuck.
There. Problem solved.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 02, 2026 11:20 AM (dGCAG)
Like many good theories, it's true in theory, but as we've seen with the takeover of entertainment and to an extent medical insurance, once zealots get in charge of an entire industry you as the "customer" are stuck. Once zealots take charge of food, and they have done it in many ways through abuse of farmers in western countries along with other means, the "customer" is stuck.
Posted by: ... at January 02, 2026 11:24 AM (E0p3T)
82
Today I’m waiting to see which news outlets and which “conservative influencers” are going to be all butthurt about Iran’s government apparently spiraling down into the toilet,
I guess what I really expect is a whole lot of silence.
I guess what I really expect is a whole lot of silence.
Posted by: Tom Servo at January 02, 2026 11:25 AM (otNgF)
83
61 The best Christmas decorations belong to other people.
There's a great picture of two adjacent houses; one is absolutely covered with decorations, while the other one has a sign saying "Ditto" with an arrow pointing at the first house.
There's a great picture of two adjacent houses; one is absolutely covered with decorations, while the other one has a sign saying "Ditto" with an arrow pointing at the first house.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:25 AM (Riz8t)
84
I suppose that's not surprising really. This is a natural consequence of the data gathering and selling. But with the expense of buying data, the time to code this and employ it, I wonder how much it actually earns?
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 02, 2026 11:25 AM (3Amc7)
85
Convenience will get you there
Posted by: Skip at January 02, 2026 11:25 AM (Ia/+0)
86
Related danger is YOU getting different prices than your neighbor because you might be willing to pay more.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at January 02, 2026 11:23 AM (xcxpd)
I'm not seeing the danger.
Other than government setting prices. We used to have a name for that sort of thing.
Posted by: Mark Andrew Edwards, buy ammo at January 02, 2026 11:23 AM (xcxpd)
I'm not seeing the danger.
Other than government setting prices. We used to have a name for that sort of thing.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 02, 2026 11:25 AM (dGCAG)
87
We are in a political battle against the siren song of socialism. It is imperative, therefore, that those in executive positions in corporate America stop engaging in amoral practices to mine the last possible dollar of revenue from customers. Doing so provides ammunition to the enemies of economic freedom.
++++
Antitrust law would indicate that what Instacart is doing is not allowed (Robinson–Patman). Most of the American medical industry runs in black-letter violation of antitrust law. Much of Alphabet/Google operates in violation of antitrust law.
None of it matters. The problem isn't the predation as such, it's the refusal to address it through well-established and applicable legal frameworks. There are no consequences to violation. You just get screwed and they buy another bureaucrat. To describe it as "capitalism" is hilarious. It's anything but. It is at best cronyism and it gets to the point of being indistinguishable from fascism. Do whatever you want, so long as the Party is kept happy.
++++
Antitrust law would indicate that what Instacart is doing is not allowed (Robinson–Patman). Most of the American medical industry runs in black-letter violation of antitrust law. Much of Alphabet/Google operates in violation of antitrust law.
None of it matters. The problem isn't the predation as such, it's the refusal to address it through well-established and applicable legal frameworks. There are no consequences to violation. You just get screwed and they buy another bureaucrat. To describe it as "capitalism" is hilarious. It's anything but. It is at best cronyism and it gets to the point of being indistinguishable from fascism. Do whatever you want, so long as the Party is kept happy.
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 11:26 AM (avHHk)
88
There actually is a law. The Robinson Patman Act of 1936.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at January 02, 2026 11:23 AM (0U5gm)
I used to love playing Pac-Man at the arcade. Same guy?
Posted by: Thomas Paine at January 02, 2026 11:23 AM (0U5gm)
I used to love playing Pac-Man at the arcade. Same guy?
Posted by: LinusVanPelt at January 02, 2026 11:26 AM (xT8gx)
89
80 Weren't there some predictions made here last year? Did I miss the results post?
Posted by: WTP at January 02, 2026 11:24 AM (vtC5P)
We went over a bunch on New Year’s Eve.
Posted by: WTP at January 02, 2026 11:24 AM (vtC5P)
We went over a bunch on New Year’s Eve.
Posted by: Tom Servo at January 02, 2026 11:26 AM (otNgF)
90
Price discrimination is illegal.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at January 02, 2026 11:01 AM (0U5gm)
Not functionally, it's not.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at January 02, 2026 11:01 AM (0U5gm)
Not functionally, it's not.
Posted by: Washington Nearsider at January 02, 2026 11:26 AM (oSeBJ)
91
We do not have capitalism in this country.
We have corporatism; a soft fascism.
But really it's hidden socialism with a cheap suit of a market system.
The bottom 20% get all the benefits.
The top 1% get to rule.
Everyone else gets to pay.
So, of course the stupids with degrees are all against Capitalism. Because they're told their entire life that the US is a capitalist country.
And there is no way the corporatists who are the donor class of the GOP will ever offer an alternative to the current system.
We have corporatism; a soft fascism.
But really it's hidden socialism with a cheap suit of a market system.
The bottom 20% get all the benefits.
The top 1% get to rule.
Everyone else gets to pay.
So, of course the stupids with degrees are all against Capitalism. Because they're told their entire life that the US is a capitalist country.
And there is no way the corporatists who are the donor class of the GOP will ever offer an alternative to the current system.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice at January 02, 2026 11:26 AM (HXT0k)
92
I would, however, argue that charging people different prices based on who they are is not new; shops often have done so through the centuries. Lord Pooftah gets charged more than Bobby Streets because he can afford more and probably doesn't even know how much stuff should cost.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 02, 2026 11:27 AM (3Amc7)
93
I know about the electric car hate but if I had the spare change to have an extra car, I would get a Tesla for my daily commute car.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:27 AM (VCgbV)
94
61
‘ The best Christmas decorations belong to other people.’
That’s why I get my decorations from other people’s houses.
I just have to ‘shop’ at night and in different neighborhoods.
‘ The best Christmas decorations belong to other people.’
That’s why I get my decorations from other people’s houses.
I just have to ‘shop’ at night and in different neighborhoods.
Posted by: Dr. Claw at January 02, 2026 11:27 AM (jbnUc)
95
When a business offers a 10% discount for students or seniors or military, how is that any different than what Instacart is doing?
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 11:27 AM (/CkK4)
96
Like many good theories, it's true in theory, but as we've seen with the takeover of entertainment and to an extent medical insurance, once zealots get in charge of an entire industry you as the "customer" are stuck. Once zealots take charge of food, and they have done it in many ways through abuse of farmers in western countries along with other means, the "customer" is stuck.
Posted by: ... at January 02, 2026 11:24 AM (E0p3T)
The common denominator is ALL these supposed problems is government intervention.
I can't believe anyone in 2025 is looking at whatever ills they see, and saying to themselves "You know what would fix this? More government!"
Posted by: ... at January 02, 2026 11:24 AM (E0p3T)
The common denominator is ALL these supposed problems is government intervention.
I can't believe anyone in 2025 is looking at whatever ills they see, and saying to themselves "You know what would fix this? More government!"
Posted by: BurtTC at January 02, 2026 11:28 AM (dGCAG)
97
Ain't got no instacart....went to Walmart a while back. They said, "Can I see your receipt?" I said, "No."and left the place for good.
Posted by: Don in SoCo at January 02, 2026 11:28 AM (vd6bO)
98
"We went over a bunch on New Year’s Eve."
Where? In the comments? I was looking for a post by...i believe thruckmorton...on the results. A couple were kinda close and kinda open to interpretation. Seems it would make an interesting discussion.
Where? In the comments? I was looking for a post by...i believe thruckmorton...on the results. A couple were kinda close and kinda open to interpretation. Seems it would make an interesting discussion.
Posted by: WTP at January 02, 2026 11:28 AM (vtC5P)
99
This month you get $1000 off if you buy a Ford. And so on. Are we going to ban all that as well?
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 11:11 AM (/CkK4)
++++
Those cars, assuming equivalence, all have the same list price. Anyone who walks in can pay that list price and walk out with a car. *Negotiating* a price is fine. There is no problem with dickering. That is also not what Instacart is allegedly doing.
This is not equivalent to walking into a grocery store and negotiating a discount on the advertised price. This is presenting different prices to different people with no difference in circumstance. Same app, same store, same products, same terms, *different* price. That's the distinction.
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 11:11 AM (/CkK4)
++++
Those cars, assuming equivalence, all have the same list price. Anyone who walks in can pay that list price and walk out with a car. *Negotiating* a price is fine. There is no problem with dickering. That is also not what Instacart is allegedly doing.
This is not equivalent to walking into a grocery store and negotiating a discount on the advertised price. This is presenting different prices to different people with no difference in circumstance. Same app, same store, same products, same terms, *different* price. That's the distinction.
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 11:28 AM (avHHk)
100
I can't believe anyone in 2025 is looking at whatever ills they see, and saying to themselves "You know what would fix this? More government!"
[NYC mayoral voters have entered the chat.]
[NYC mayoral voters have entered the chat.]
Posted by: Delurker at January 02, 2026 11:29 AM (xNHSX)
101
I suppose that's not surprising really. This is a natural consequence of the data gathering and selling. But with the expense of buying data, the time to code this and employ it, I wonder how much it actually earns?
I've read recently that lots of companies have concluded that they're not getting much of value from all the mined data for which they pay. The problem for them is that there isn't a viable alternative way of advertising.
I feel for them. So sad.
I've read recently that lots of companies have concluded that they're not getting much of value from all the mined data for which they pay. The problem for them is that there isn't a viable alternative way of advertising.
I feel for them. So sad.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:29 AM (Riz8t)
102
Where? In the comments? I was looking for a post by...i believe thruckmorton...on the results. A couple were kinda close and kinda open to interpretation. Seems it would make an interesting discussion.
Posted by: WTP at January 02, 2026 11:28 AM (vtC5P)
++++
I gave myself a scorecard. The New Year's Eve morning rant. I don't know if anyone else did a predictions post to self-rebut.
Posted by: WTP at January 02, 2026 11:28 AM (vtC5P)
++++
I gave myself a scorecard. The New Year's Eve morning rant. I don't know if anyone else did a predictions post to self-rebut.
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 11:29 AM (avHHk)
103
Why is no one complaining about the pervasive menace that is dynamic pricing and ridership requirements for HOV lanes?
Posted by: Count de Monet at January 02, 2026 11:30 AM (6Ga6M)
104
I've read recently that lots of companies have concluded that they're not getting much of value from all the mined data for which they pay. The problem for them is that there isn't a viable alternative way of advertising.
I feel for them. So sad.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:29 AM (Riz8t)
++++
As I used to hear it put, "everyone knows that 50% of every advertising dollar is wasted. The problem is that nobody knows which 50%."
I feel for them. So sad.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:29 AM (Riz8t)
++++
As I used to hear it put, "everyone knows that 50% of every advertising dollar is wasted. The problem is that nobody knows which 50%."
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 11:30 AM (avHHk)
105
We do not have capitalism in this country.
We have corporatism; a soft fascism.
But really it's hidden socialism with a cheap suit of a market system.
Its still got some capitalism left, but the bigger the company and the loftier the status, the less there is. The local diner is 90% capitalist, with socialism forced on the owners. Wal*Mart is 70% socialist but still runs things based on supply and demand and market forces for the rest.
The extreme, top-down socialism of the Biden and Obama years (and Trump first term since he did almost nothing to deal with it) has largely been demolished, so the ESG and DEI stuff is waning, but the stain of it still is in there.
We have corporatism; a soft fascism.
But really it's hidden socialism with a cheap suit of a market system.
Its still got some capitalism left, but the bigger the company and the loftier the status, the less there is. The local diner is 90% capitalist, with socialism forced on the owners. Wal*Mart is 70% socialist but still runs things based on supply and demand and market forces for the rest.
The extreme, top-down socialism of the Biden and Obama years (and Trump first term since he did almost nothing to deal with it) has largely been demolished, so the ESG and DEI stuff is waning, but the stain of it still is in there.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 02, 2026 11:30 AM (3Amc7)
106
This is obviously rhetorical, but just how stupid are these people?
This isn’t a matter of ‘bad speechwriting.’
The problem is that everything actually is as stupid as it seems.
A lot of middle aged pundits like Filipovic can’t or don’t want to come to terms with this and so they resort to denial and dissembling.
https://is.gd/nA2fhQ
Zohran Mamdani fans disappointed by disastrous ‘block party’ with no food or bathrooms
https://is.gd/G8tdaK
This isn’t a matter of ‘bad speechwriting.’
The problem is that everything actually is as stupid as it seems.
A lot of middle aged pundits like Filipovic can’t or don’t want to come to terms with this and so they resort to denial and dissembling.
https://is.gd/nA2fhQ
Zohran Mamdani fans disappointed by disastrous ‘block party’ with no food or bathrooms
https://is.gd/G8tdaK
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:30 AM (Riz8t)
107
Why is no one complaining about the pervasive menace that is dynamic pricing and ridership requirements for HOV lanes?
Posted by: Count de Monet at January 02, 2026 11:30 AM (6Ga6M)
++++
Because the state is a business partner in those schemes. People complain about it all the time. There is study after study that HOV lanes increase congestion. Ruinous tolls are a common area of complaint, especially after initial capital is recouped. None of it matters. The state is a business partner, so no complaint is relevant.
Posted by: Count de Monet at January 02, 2026 11:30 AM (6Ga6M)
++++
Because the state is a business partner in those schemes. People complain about it all the time. There is study after study that HOV lanes increase congestion. Ruinous tolls are a common area of complaint, especially after initial capital is recouped. None of it matters. The state is a business partner, so no complaint is relevant.
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 11:31 AM (avHHk)
108
I've read recently that lots of companies have concluded that they're not getting much of value from all the mined data for which they pay. The problem for them is that there isn't a viable alternative way of advertising.
I think this sort of thing is the response to that. Advertising is largely dead, even though most businesses have not caught on to it yet. But using the data to chisel a bit more out of everyone is viable.
I think this sort of thing is the response to that. Advertising is largely dead, even though most businesses have not caught on to it yet. But using the data to chisel a bit more out of everyone is viable.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 02, 2026 11:32 AM (3Amc7)
109
Walmart a while back. They said, "Can I see your receipt?" I said, "No."and left the place for good.
Posted by: Don in SoCo
---
Walmart has locked up all the cosmetics and personal care stuff and there is no one around to unlock it. Plus them asking for receipts at the door. I very seldom go there or to Target because they are just gay/trans/lbgtqrstvxyz.
Posted by: Don in SoCo
---
Walmart has locked up all the cosmetics and personal care stuff and there is no one around to unlock it. Plus them asking for receipts at the door. I very seldom go there or to Target because they are just gay/trans/lbgtqrstvxyz.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:32 AM (VCgbV)
110
Scott Adams @ScottAdamsSays
I have a favor to ask.
If my work helped you, or someone you know, please follow my biographer and good friend @joelpollak and leave a comment here in case he wants to follow up with you on DMs.
It gives me great joy to learn about any contribution I made.
I tried to be useful.
X: https://bit.ly/3NrUPtW
I have a favor to ask.
If my work helped you, or someone you know, please follow my biographer and good friend @joelpollak and leave a comment here in case he wants to follow up with you on DMs.
It gives me great joy to learn about any contribution I made.
I tried to be useful.
X: https://bit.ly/3NrUPtW
Posted by: Clyde Shelton at January 02, 2026 11:32 AM (P5BPp)
111
"Timing is everything, darling."
It's been reported that New York City started a major conflict with Instacart, not the other way around. (Thank Bernie.)
>Why Instacart Is Challenging New York City’s New Grocery Delivery Law, Instacart, Dec 2, 2025. Interesting.
Instacart is currently suing New York City to block worker protection and transparency laws that took effect under the Mamdani administration. (But it's more than that.)
Mamdani’s Commissioner of the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP), Sam Levine, has pledged to hold app companies like Instacart accountable for road safety and to curb the exploitation of delivery workers.
A central pillar of Mamdani’s platform is the creation of a network of city-owned grocery stores. This initiative is explicitly designed to compete with private entities and delivery apps like Instacart by providing food at lower prices and bypassing the "price gouging" Mamdani attributes to corporate delivery platforms.
I suggest stepping back and watching where this goes rather than beating the war drum for either side. (But I'm NOT a Mamdani supporter and think I see where his influence street is potentially heading.)
It's been reported that New York City started a major conflict with Instacart, not the other way around. (Thank Bernie.)
>Why Instacart Is Challenging New York City’s New Grocery Delivery Law, Instacart, Dec 2, 2025. Interesting.
Instacart is currently suing New York City to block worker protection and transparency laws that took effect under the Mamdani administration. (But it's more than that.)
Mamdani’s Commissioner of the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP), Sam Levine, has pledged to hold app companies like Instacart accountable for road safety and to curb the exploitation of delivery workers.
A central pillar of Mamdani’s platform is the creation of a network of city-owned grocery stores. This initiative is explicitly designed to compete with private entities and delivery apps like Instacart by providing food at lower prices and bypassing the "price gouging" Mamdani attributes to corporate delivery platforms.
I suggest stepping back and watching where this goes rather than beating the war drum for either side. (But I'm NOT a Mamdani supporter and think I see where his influence street is potentially heading.)
Posted by: L - No nic, another fine day at January 02, 2026 11:33 AM (NFX2v)
112
Zohran Mamdani fans disappointed by disastrous ‘block party’ with no food or bathrooms
https://is.gd/G8tdaK
Posted by: Archimedes
Because food & bathrooms cost money. Loving that warm communism yet?
https://is.gd/G8tdaK
Posted by: Archimedes
Because food & bathrooms cost money. Loving that warm communism yet?
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 11:33 AM (c115l)
113
There is study after study that HOV lanes increase congestion.
How is that possible?
BTW, I take HOT lanes all the time. They're great.
How is that possible?
BTW, I take HOT lanes all the time. They're great.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:33 AM (Riz8t)
114
Why is no one complaining about the pervasive menace that is dynamic pricing and ridership requirements for HOV lanes?
Posted by: Count de Monet at January 02, 2026 11:30 AM (6Ga6M)
People do. A lot.
Those lanes are derisively named Lexus Lanes implying only the well off can use them at the expense see of the less well off, who suffer even worse traffic because of them.
Posted by: Count de Monet at January 02, 2026 11:30 AM (6Ga6M)
People do. A lot.
Those lanes are derisively named Lexus Lanes implying only the well off can use them at the expense see of the less well off, who suffer even worse traffic because of them.
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 11:33 AM (/CkK4)
115
Fear should guide journalist. Or go live Canada. It's just like a frozen Cuba.
Some these super locals are backwards by a lifetime ago.
Some these super locals are backwards by a lifetime ago.
Posted by: thug dolphin at January 02, 2026 11:33 AM (EyfuW)
116
Not sure how I would charge that EV, and going to a charge lot and sit 3 hours just isn't on my agenda
Posted by: Skip at January 02, 2026 11:33 AM (Ia/+0)
117
This is obviously rhetorical, but just how stupid are these people?
Like Obama and Trump, Mamdani won based on vibes, not rhetoric. People voted based on "he seems cool" and "I like how he makes me feel" and didn't know or even care much about their policies and ideas. This is what Newsome is trying to tap into but unfortunately for him, his vibe is sleazy politician and oily scumbag car salesman. He looks and acts like every bad guy in an 80s comedy.
Like Obama and Trump, Mamdani won based on vibes, not rhetoric. People voted based on "he seems cool" and "I like how he makes me feel" and didn't know or even care much about their policies and ideas. This is what Newsome is trying to tap into but unfortunately for him, his vibe is sleazy politician and oily scumbag car salesman. He looks and acts like every bad guy in an 80s comedy.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 02, 2026 11:34 AM (3Amc7)
118
Well for the record...these were mine...more than a few were notthings I would bother to predict but whatever:
Predict what numbers these will be as of December 31, 2025 (numerical response):
1) Price of 9mm ammo per round (as determined by daily average best price on Black Basin, currently $0.13).
$0.15
2) National average price per gallon of regular gasoline (as determined by AAA, currently $3.043)
$2.67
3) S&P 500 level (as determined by S&P, Dec 31 2024 close was 5881.63)
6993.62
4) Euro to Dollar Exchange Rate (midmarket rate at 4pm ET as determined by XE.com, currently 1.0356)
0.9736
5) Price of a single 2X4X8 premium grade piece of lumber (reference is the price at the Home Depot nearest to TRex home, currently $3.85 each)
$3.85
6) Starting MSRP price of the most base level Ford F150 pick up truck (as shown on Ford build configuration website, currently $38,710)
$41,775
The rest rejected by spam filter(?)
Predict what numbers these will be as of December 31, 2025 (numerical response):
1) Price of 9mm ammo per round (as determined by daily average best price on Black Basin, currently $0.13).
$0.15
2) National average price per gallon of regular gasoline (as determined by AAA, currently $3.043)
$2.67
3) S&P 500 level (as determined by S&P, Dec 31 2024 close was 5881.63)
6993.62
4) Euro to Dollar Exchange Rate (midmarket rate at 4pm ET as determined by XE.com, currently 1.0356)
0.9736
5) Price of a single 2X4X8 premium grade piece of lumber (reference is the price at the Home Depot nearest to TRex home, currently $3.85 each)
$3.85
6) Starting MSRP price of the most base level Ford F150 pick up truck (as shown on Ford build configuration website, currently $38,710)
$41,775
The rest rejected by spam filter(?)
Posted by: WTP at January 02, 2026 11:34 AM (vtC5P)
119
Here's a good summary of the Republican's HHS funding bill that's going to be passed:
x.com/Oilfield_Rando/status/
2005812870462718349
The Rs are super stoked to spend money.
Apparently, there's this program where tons of foreign immigrants are dumped in the country and then set up with millions of dollars of fraud programs. Has anyone heard about this? Well guess what? The republicans are pouring money into this great idea. Senate Rs want to give away 6 billion to foreigner welfare and the House Rs want to give away 4 billion.
Oh, and get this, there is apparently this system to hand billions of our money to pretend somalian day care scams. Oh I hope that doesn't stop,... nope don't worry! The Rs are fully funding that specific program. Not cuts at all.
Also great stuff like making sure DEI is everywhere with our $$$ going to back it up.
We're owning the libs!!!!
x.com/Oilfield_Rando/status/
2005812870462718349
The Rs are super stoked to spend money.
Apparently, there's this program where tons of foreign immigrants are dumped in the country and then set up with millions of dollars of fraud programs. Has anyone heard about this? Well guess what? The republicans are pouring money into this great idea. Senate Rs want to give away 6 billion to foreigner welfare and the House Rs want to give away 4 billion.
Oh, and get this, there is apparently this system to hand billions of our money to pretend somalian day care scams. Oh I hope that doesn't stop,... nope don't worry! The Rs are fully funding that specific program. Not cuts at all.
Also great stuff like making sure DEI is everywhere with our $$$ going to back it up.
We're owning the libs!!!!
Posted by: banana Dream at January 02, 2026 11:34 AM (3uBP9)
120
street influence 🤬
Posted by: L - No nic, another fine day at January 02, 2026 11:34 AM (NFX2v)
121
Why is no one complaining about the pervasive menace that is dynamic pricing and ridership requirements for HOV lanes?
Posted by: Count de Monet
----
@#&$%*
Posted by: Count de Monet
----
@#&$%*
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:34 AM (VCgbV)
122
It gives me great joy to learn about any contribution I made.
I tried to be useful.
Dang, that's so sad.
I tried to be useful.
Dang, that's so sad.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:34 AM (Riz8t)
123
Keep in mind, there are already laws on the books that make all this illegal.
Price gouging, false advertising, deceptive trade practices--every state has those laws.
The Democrats won't enforce them (as long as the companies play ball).
The Republicans will insist that we need to pass new laws before anything can be done.
And if you try to bring your own suit, every judge in the land will find a way to say you don't have standing.
Price gouging, false advertising, deceptive trade practices--every state has those laws.
The Democrats won't enforce them (as long as the companies play ball).
The Republicans will insist that we need to pass new laws before anything can be done.
And if you try to bring your own suit, every judge in the land will find a way to say you don't have standing.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice at January 02, 2026 11:35 AM (HXT0k)
124
Not sure how I would charge that EV, and going to a charge lot and sit 3 hours just isn't on my agenda
Usually people do it when they are asleep or at work. Plug it in when you're not in the car. Charging time is typically only an issue in long trips.
Usually people do it when they are asleep or at work. Plug it in when you're not in the car. Charging time is typically only an issue in long trips.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 02, 2026 11:35 AM (3Amc7)
125
I've read recently that lots of companies have concluded that they're not getting much of value from all the mined data for which they pay. The problem for them is that there isn't a viable alternative way of advertising.
I feel for them. So sad.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:29 AM (Riz8t)
I still don’t understand the ROI for all the constant biktarvy (and other pharmaceutical) ads… they’re spending huge sums on ads for products which might be applicable to 0.1% of the population at most. How does that work?
I feel for them. So sad.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:29 AM (Riz8t)
I still don’t understand the ROI for all the constant biktarvy (and other pharmaceutical) ads… they’re spending huge sums on ads for products which might be applicable to 0.1% of the population at most. How does that work?
Posted by: LinusVanPelt at January 02, 2026 11:36 AM (xT8gx)
126
Those lanes are derisively named Lexus Lanes implying only the well off can use them at the expense see of the less well off, who suffer even worse traffic because of them.
Again, huh? If I'm not in the HOT lanes, I'm in the regular lanes, cloggin' ur traffic. It seems to me that everyone wins when I pay more to wave at the peasants from the HOT lanes.
Again, huh? If I'm not in the HOT lanes, I'm in the regular lanes, cloggin' ur traffic. It seems to me that everyone wins when I pay more to wave at the peasants from the HOT lanes.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:36 AM (Riz8t)
127
There is study after study that HOV lanes increase congestion.
How is that possible?
BTW, I take HOT lanes all the time. They're great.
Posted by: Archimedes
Because HOV Lanes are the chicken wire lanes.
(Inside lane)
When you get out of the HOV lane and try to cross four other lanes so you can make your exit off the freeway, everyone has to slow down to let you over.
Now add twenty other vehicles because y'all arrived at your destination.
How is that possible?
BTW, I take HOT lanes all the time. They're great.
Posted by: Archimedes
Because HOV Lanes are the chicken wire lanes.
(Inside lane)
When you get out of the HOV lane and try to cross four other lanes so you can make your exit off the freeway, everyone has to slow down to let you over.
Now add twenty other vehicles because y'all arrived at your destination.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 11:36 AM (c115l)
128
The rest rejected by spam filter(?)
There are limits to the length of any post and the system doesn't like lists very much, either.
There are limits to the length of any post and the system doesn't like lists very much, either.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 02, 2026 11:37 AM (3Amc7)
129
Say you have 4 lanes. One of them is a HOT /HOV lane. Instead of X number of cars using it, only 0.3X is allowed to use it. So the capacity for the entire highway is reduced by having that dedicated la e.
A few people get the benefit at the expenses of everyone else who has even worse traffic because of it. Essentially you’re turning a 4 lane highway into a 3 lane highway for everyone not using the HOV lane.
A few people get the benefit at the expenses of everyone else who has even worse traffic because of it. Essentially you’re turning a 4 lane highway into a 3 lane highway for everyone not using the HOV lane.
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 11:37 AM (/CkK4)
130
Should there be a nationally mandated price for gasoline at all stations, in all states?
Posted by: Warai-otoko at January 02, 2026 11:37 AM (06Hmj)
131
Ryan Saavedra @RyanSaavedra
Even top Putin ally Kirill Dmitriev, who is CEO of Russia’s sovereign wealth fund, is dunking on Zohran Mamdani
Kirill Dmitriev @kadmitriev
Dear Comrade Mamdani - just a friendly reminder that this has been tried before.
X image: https://bit.ly/44Vp9Dj
Even top Putin ally Kirill Dmitriev, who is CEO of Russia’s sovereign wealth fund, is dunking on Zohran Mamdani
Kirill Dmitriev @kadmitriev
Dear Comrade Mamdani - just a friendly reminder that this has been tried before.
X image: https://bit.ly/44Vp9Dj
Posted by: Clyde Shelton at January 02, 2026 11:38 AM (P5BPp)
132
Should there be a nationally mandated price for gasoline at all stations, in all states?
Posted by: Warai-otoko
No. Why?
Posted by: Warai-otoko
No. Why?
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 11:38 AM (c115l)
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at January 02, 2026 11:38 AM (pkeXY)
134
I see I hit a nerve re HOV lanes and congestion. I was being a bit tongue-in-cheek, or so I wryly thought.
Posted by: Count de Monet at January 02, 2026 11:39 AM (6Ga6M)
135
This is why I get off my ass and go to the store to shop.
Posted by: mpfs. I'M BACK at January 02, 2026 11:39 AM (P42t1)
136
Because HOV Lanes are the chicken wire lanes.
(Inside lane)
When you get out of the HOV lane and try to cross four other lanes so you can make your exit off the freeway, everyone has to slow down to let you over.
On the beltway, the HOV lanes usually debouche directly onto the smaller feeder road. Furthermore, you have to weigh those where they don't against the reduced traffic in the regular lanes. Finally, most of the time the traffic on the beltway is so heavy that it's not really moving at highway speeds, so moving across is easier.
(Inside lane)
When you get out of the HOV lane and try to cross four other lanes so you can make your exit off the freeway, everyone has to slow down to let you over.
On the beltway, the HOV lanes usually debouche directly onto the smaller feeder road. Furthermore, you have to weigh those where they don't against the reduced traffic in the regular lanes. Finally, most of the time the traffic on the beltway is so heavy that it's not really moving at highway speeds, so moving across is easier.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:40 AM (Riz8t)
137
Scott Adams @ScottAdamsSays
I have a favor to ask.
If my work helped you, or someone you know, please follow my biographer and good friend @joelpollak and leave a comment here in case he wants to follow up with you on DMs.
It gives me great joy to learn about any contribution I made.
I tried to be useful.
X: https://bit.ly/3NrUPtW
Posted by: Clyde Shelton
That makes me incredibly sad. I know Mr. Adams doesn't have long now.
I have a favor to ask.
If my work helped you, or someone you know, please follow my biographer and good friend @joelpollak and leave a comment here in case he wants to follow up with you on DMs.
It gives me great joy to learn about any contribution I made.
I tried to be useful.
X: https://bit.ly/3NrUPtW
Posted by: Clyde Shelton
That makes me incredibly sad. I know Mr. Adams doesn't have long now.
Posted by: Tuna at January 02, 2026 11:40 AM (lJ0H4)
138
I hate when people get into the toll lane and drive slow... it's worse than driving slow in the left lane because there is no way to pass the @ssh@le.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:40 AM (VCgbV)
139
119. We're owning the libs!!!!
Posted by: banana Dream
But everyone's grown children need excellent paying jobs and prime networking connections! 😭
(MTG is a very current reminder of the game.)
Posted by: banana Dream
But everyone's grown children need excellent paying jobs and prime networking connections! 😭
(MTG is a very current reminder of the game.)
Posted by: L - No nic, another fine day at January 02, 2026 11:40 AM (NFX2v)
140
Kirill Dmitriev @kadmitriev
Dear Comrade Mamdani - just a friendly reminder that this has been tried before.
X image: https://bit.ly/44Vp9Dj
That. Is. Awesome.
Dear Comrade Mamdani - just a friendly reminder that this has been tried before.
X image: https://bit.ly/44Vp9Dj
That. Is. Awesome.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:41 AM (Riz8t)
141
How is that possible?
BTW, I take HOT lanes all the time. They're great.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:33 AM (Riz8t)
++++
Math.
Assume you have a three-lane road that carries 100,000 cars during rush hour along a ten-mile stretch of town. That is 100,000/10/3, or 3,333 vehicles per lane-mile during rush hour.
Now convert one of those lines to HOV.
Of those 100,000 cars, 5,000 of them already have more than one occupant. An additional 10,000 commuters are willing to carpool to become HOV to exploit the new lane. There are now 10,000 cars that are high-occupancy and the total dwindles to 95,000. Assume further that there's a toll scheme and 10,000 people are willing to pay for express lane access. There are now 20,000 cars that are high-occupancy or equivalent, and 95,000 cars total, which means that 75,000 cars are single-occupant and non-tolled.
Those 20,000 qualifying vehicles get one lane, which is 2,000 cars per lane-mile on the HOV-enabled stretch of road during rush hour. The remaining 75,000 cars now get two lanes, which increases their carriage to 3,750 cars per lane-mile during rush hour.
BTW, I take HOT lanes all the time. They're great.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:33 AM (Riz8t)
++++
Math.
Assume you have a three-lane road that carries 100,000 cars during rush hour along a ten-mile stretch of town. That is 100,000/10/3, or 3,333 vehicles per lane-mile during rush hour.
Now convert one of those lines to HOV.
Of those 100,000 cars, 5,000 of them already have more than one occupant. An additional 10,000 commuters are willing to carpool to become HOV to exploit the new lane. There are now 10,000 cars that are high-occupancy and the total dwindles to 95,000. Assume further that there's a toll scheme and 10,000 people are willing to pay for express lane access. There are now 20,000 cars that are high-occupancy or equivalent, and 95,000 cars total, which means that 75,000 cars are single-occupant and non-tolled.
Those 20,000 qualifying vehicles get one lane, which is 2,000 cars per lane-mile on the HOV-enabled stretch of road during rush hour. The remaining 75,000 cars now get two lanes, which increases their carriage to 3,750 cars per lane-mile during rush hour.
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 11:41 AM (avHHk)
142
Should there be a nationally mandated price for gasoline at all stations, in all states?
Posted by: Warai-otoko
No, why should I say for California's fuck ups concerning gasoline.
Let them pay 7 bucks a gallon. Its what they voted for.
Posted by: Warai-otoko
No, why should I say for California's fuck ups concerning gasoline.
Let them pay 7 bucks a gallon. Its what they voted for.
Posted by: mpfs. I'M BACK at January 02, 2026 11:42 AM (P42t1)
143
Should there be a nationally mandated price for gasoline at all stations, in all states?
I am actually surprised that never happened. I bet you could get 70% of the public to support it.
I am actually surprised that never happened. I bet you could get 70% of the public to support it.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 02, 2026 11:42 AM (3Amc7)
144
I hate when people get into the toll lane and drive slow... it's worse than driving slow in the left lane because there is no way to pass the @ssh@le.
On the beltway, there are two HOT lanes, and the cops just LOVE to ticket people who think the laws cease to apply there.
On the beltway, there are two HOT lanes, and the cops just LOVE to ticket people who think the laws cease to apply there.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:42 AM (Riz8t)
145
Bought an electronics item at Wallymart recently. Naturally it was in a locked display case. Wallymart lady unlocked it with her smartphone. That was kinda neat.
Posted by: Quarter Twenty at January 02, 2026 11:42 AM (2Ez/1)
146
The best Christmas decorations belong to other people.
Posted by: Quarter Twenty at January 02, 2026 11:19 AM (2Ez/1)
This is the logic of a great thinker.
Posted by: Quarter Twenty at January 02, 2026 11:19 AM (2Ez/1)
This is the logic of a great thinker.
Posted by: Dr. Pork Chops & Bacons at January 02, 2026 11:43 AM (g8Ew8)
147
Zohran Mamdani fans disappointed by disastrous ‘block party’ with no food or bathrooms
Boomers didn't complain about lack of facilities at Woodstock.
Zohran Mamdani fans disappointed by disastrous ‘block party’ with no food or bathrooms
Boomers didn't complain about lack of facilities at Woodstock.
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at January 02, 2026 11:43 AM (pkeXY)
148
Now convert one of those lines to HOV.
Well there's yer problem. HOV/HOT lanes are not a conversion of an existing lane, they're roads built by private investors. At least that's how they are on the beltway.
Well there's yer problem. HOV/HOT lanes are not a conversion of an existing lane, they're roads built by private investors. At least that's how they are on the beltway.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:44 AM (Riz8t)
149
Like Obama and Trump, Mamdani won based on vibes, not rhetoric. People voted based on "he seems cool" and "I like how he makes me feel" and didn't know or even care much about their policies and ideas. This is what Newsome is trying to tap into but unfortunately for him, his vibe is sleazy politician and oily scumbag car salesman. He looks and acts like every bad guy in an 80s comedy.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 02, 2026 11:34 AM (3Amc7)
Think of Kurt Russell's character in Used Cars.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 02, 2026 11:34 AM (3Amc7)
Think of Kurt Russell's character in Used Cars.
Posted by: thatcrazyjerseyguy at January 02, 2026 11:44 AM (5xuJ/)
150
Boomers didn't complain about lack of facilities at Woodstock.
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at January 02, 2026 11:43 AM (pkeXY)
++++
They memorialized and glorified it and everyone claimed to have been there.
Give it 10 years and everyone in NY will reminisce about being at the party!
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at January 02, 2026 11:43 AM (pkeXY)
++++
They memorialized and glorified it and everyone claimed to have been there.
Give it 10 years and everyone in NY will reminisce about being at the party!
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 11:44 AM (avHHk)
151
What just makes my skin crawl is the auto insurance companies selling driving tracking as a way to save.
Then they ding you for so many stupid factors that you'll not save any money; no speeding, no sudden stops or turns, etc.
And now they have a permanent file on your driving and you'll never get a cheaper rate.
And 100% guarantee they are selling that data to someone somehow.
Then they ding you for so many stupid factors that you'll not save any money; no speeding, no sudden stops or turns, etc.
And now they have a permanent file on your driving and you'll never get a cheaper rate.
And 100% guarantee they are selling that data to someone somehow.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice at January 02, 2026 11:44 AM (HXT0k)
Posted by: Ref with whistle at January 02, 2026 11:45 AM (2Ez/1)
153
This is the same nonsense approach applied in every public school in the nation. Kids that excel end up being stifled by the necessity to dumb down the curriculum to accommodate the less intelligent and less motivated. The result is everyone passing with adjusted benchmarks. In some cases, total disregard for the measuring tests.
You teach people to access the opportunity. It is on them to decide whether to apply those lessons. Deciding poorly results in self-inflicted poverty a lot of the time. "Dumbing down commerce" in the way described above just encourages the behavior, and removes the motivation to exceed.
And, I've got news for you. They wouldn't be lowering the cost of a grocery item. They'd be raising the price for those in a higher income structure to benefit the retailer, not the poverty stricken individual. Retailers are not altruistic no matter how many programs are created to make the initiator feel good about themselves.
You teach people to access the opportunity. It is on them to decide whether to apply those lessons. Deciding poorly results in self-inflicted poverty a lot of the time. "Dumbing down commerce" in the way described above just encourages the behavior, and removes the motivation to exceed.
And, I've got news for you. They wouldn't be lowering the cost of a grocery item. They'd be raising the price for those in a higher income structure to benefit the retailer, not the poverty stricken individual. Retailers are not altruistic no matter how many programs are created to make the initiator feel good about themselves.
Posted by: Orson at January 02, 2026 11:45 AM (dIske)
154
Zohran Mamdani’s wife, Rama Duwaji, faces heat over $630 designer boots worn at the swearing-in ceremony
TOI World Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Jan 02, 2026
TOI World Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Jan 02, 2026
Posted by: L - No nic, another fine day at January 02, 2026 11:45 AM (NFX2v)
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:45 AM (Riz8t)
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:45 AM (Riz8t)
157
Now convert one of those lines to HOV.
Well there's yer problem. HOV/HOT lanes are not a conversion of an existing lane, they're roads built by private investors. At least that's how they are on the beltway.
Posted by: Archimedes
Toll roads are toll toads.
HOV lanes are built on existing freeways by removing the inside most breakdown lane.
Well there's yer problem. HOV/HOT lanes are not a conversion of an existing lane, they're roads built by private investors. At least that's how they are on the beltway.
Posted by: Archimedes
Toll roads are toll toads.
HOV lanes are built on existing freeways by removing the inside most breakdown lane.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 11:46 AM (c115l)
158
Walmart has locked up all the cosmetics and personal care stuff and there is no one around to unlock it. Plus them asking for receipts at the door. I very seldom go there or to Target because they are just gay/trans/lbgtqrstvxyz.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:32 AM (VCgbV)
Geez. Where do you live? We have none of that at the Walmarts I go to.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:32 AM (VCgbV)
Geez. Where do you live? We have none of that at the Walmarts I go to.
Posted by: Dr. Pork Chops & Bacons at January 02, 2026 11:46 AM (g8Ew8)
159
My experience with hov lanes is they usually have a brief 30-45 second sprint where you go 50 instead of 20 in the regular lanes. But then it slows to a crawl like the other lanes for the next 5 minutes. Rinse and repeat. It maybe bust a 30 minute drive by a couple of minutes.
Which in the aggregate theoretically makes them worthwhile. Hundreds of thousands of drivers saving 3 minutes every day ads up to a lot of “hours saved” and multiply that by people’s hourly wage it seems like a big number and justifies the cost, spread out over years the bonds take to pay back.
But on a personal level it’s barely noticeable.
Which in the aggregate theoretically makes them worthwhile. Hundreds of thousands of drivers saving 3 minutes every day ads up to a lot of “hours saved” and multiply that by people’s hourly wage it seems like a big number and justifies the cost, spread out over years the bonds take to pay back.
But on a personal level it’s barely noticeable.
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 11:46 AM (/CkK4)
160
it is a particularly egregious example of the political horseshoe theory that the supposed "right wing" is making the preposterous case that...discriminatory pricing, of all ancient and ubiquitous methods of commercial practice, is somehow "socialism".
if a box of chocalates is subjectively worth far more to you than it is to me, why should we pay the same price ? across-the-board pricing is actually much more collectivist/socialist than discriminatory pricing; it's just that individually targetted pricing is informationally prohibitive.
"This is significantly different from offering discounts to those enrolled in loyalty programs, or getting discounts for buying a bundle of products or in bulk. In those situations, all customers have access to the same pricing."
yikes: behold one of the most poorly thought-through economic takes i've read in a year that saw the election of a self-professed socialist to the mayoralty of the erstwhile greatest city in the world.
the worst part ? this "conversative" commentary is praising...the threat of government intervention to "correct" the nonexistent problem (!). gov't to make the rules, all in the name of fighting socialism ?
if a box of chocalates is subjectively worth far more to you than it is to me, why should we pay the same price ? across-the-board pricing is actually much more collectivist/socialist than discriminatory pricing; it's just that individually targetted pricing is informationally prohibitive.
"This is significantly different from offering discounts to those enrolled in loyalty programs, or getting discounts for buying a bundle of products or in bulk. In those situations, all customers have access to the same pricing."
yikes: behold one of the most poorly thought-through economic takes i've read in a year that saw the election of a self-professed socialist to the mayoralty of the erstwhile greatest city in the world.
the worst part ? this "conversative" commentary is praising...the threat of government intervention to "correct" the nonexistent problem (!). gov't to make the rules, all in the name of fighting socialism ?
Posted by: pH at January 02, 2026 11:47 AM (J9hPc)
161
Well there's yer problem. HOV/HOT lanes are not a conversion of an existing lane, they're roads built by private investors. At least that's how they are on the beltway.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:44 AM (Riz8t)
++++
Many, many HOV lanes were conversions. Expansions are different, but expansions also don't happen in a vacuum. There's an opportunity cost involved. The road *needed* expansion due to growth, but the expansion applies in a restricted way and benefits are limited. In a best-case outcome, everyone else's experience is unchanged (same traffic volume in the old corridor) in that case. I am sure that does happen. My one direct experience with expansion-as-toll-lanes did not reflect that (the expansion was both inadequate (the road needed 4x new lanes, not 2x, which everyone knew at the time) and the tolls were so high that it got little usage), but that is one single data point.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:44 AM (Riz8t)
++++
Many, many HOV lanes were conversions. Expansions are different, but expansions also don't happen in a vacuum. There's an opportunity cost involved. The road *needed* expansion due to growth, but the expansion applies in a restricted way and benefits are limited. In a best-case outcome, everyone else's experience is unchanged (same traffic volume in the old corridor) in that case. I am sure that does happen. My one direct experience with expansion-as-toll-lanes did not reflect that (the expansion was both inadequate (the road needed 4x new lanes, not 2x, which everyone knew at the time) and the tolls were so high that it got little usage), but that is one single data point.
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 11:47 AM (avHHk)
162
Toll roads are toll toads.
HOV lanes are built on existing freeways by removing the inside most breakdown lane.
Sometimes, but not in most. The beltway HOT lanes are largely outside the regular lanes.
HOV lanes are built on existing freeways by removing the inside most breakdown lane.
Sometimes, but not in most. The beltway HOT lanes are largely outside the regular lanes.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:47 AM (Riz8t)
163
Boomers didn't complain about lack of facilities at Woodstock.
They were too stoned to even notice
They were too stoned to even notice
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 02, 2026 11:47 AM (3Amc7)
164
111
‘ But I'm NOT a Mamdani supporter and think I see where his influence street is potentially heading.’
I think Mamdani’s new initiatives will be used to shakedown rich business owners, ie They’ll pay Mamdani to NOT have Mamdani’s initiatives applied to them.
He’ll make money like the warden in Shawshank redemption.
‘ But I'm NOT a Mamdani supporter and think I see where his influence street is potentially heading.’
I think Mamdani’s new initiatives will be used to shakedown rich business owners, ie They’ll pay Mamdani to NOT have Mamdani’s initiatives applied to them.
He’ll make money like the warden in Shawshank redemption.
Posted by: Dr. Claw at January 02, 2026 11:48 AM (jbnUc)
165
Dear Comrade Mamdani - just a friendly reminder that this has been tried before.
X image: https://bit.ly/44Vp9Dj
That. Is. Awesome.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:41 AM (Riz8t)
"You just didn't do it right."
- - - - - - - - - John F. Kerry
X image: https://bit.ly/44Vp9Dj
That. Is. Awesome.
Posted by: Archimedes at January 02, 2026 11:41 AM (Riz8t)
"You just didn't do it right."
- - - - - - - - - John F. Kerry
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 11:48 AM (Zz0t1)
166
Zohran Mamdani’s wife, Rama Duwaji, faces heat over $630 designer boots worn at the swearing-in ceremony
TOI World Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Jan 02, 2026
Posted by: L - No nic, another fine day at January 02, 2026 11:45 AM
Rookie mistake.
TOI World Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Jan 02, 2026
Posted by: L - No nic, another fine day at January 02, 2026 11:45 AM
Rookie mistake.
Posted by: Somali in $2000 Glasses at January 02, 2026 11:49 AM (P5BPp)
167
I see some retailers lockup their stuff and make you beg them to unlock it. The locks work. They still have what I came in for.
Posted by: Don in SoCo at January 02, 2026 11:49 AM (vd6bO)
168
No one brags about their suffering in the Purple Tunnel Of Doom at B.O.'s first inauguration.
Posted by: Oh by the way at January 02, 2026 11:49 AM (2Ez/1)
169
Geez. Where do you live? We have none of that at the Walmarts I go to.
Posted by: Dr. Pork Chops & Bacons at January 02, 2026 11:46 AM
Austin
Geez. Where do you live? We have none of that at the Walmarts I go to.
Posted by: Dr. Pork Chops & Bacons at January 02, 2026 11:46 AM
Austin
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 11:49 AM (Zz0t1)
170
166 Zohran Mamdani’s wife, Rama Duwaji, faces heat over $630 designer boots worn at the swearing-in ceremony
TOI World Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Jan 02, 2026
Posted by: L - No nic, another fine day at January 02, 2026 11:45 AM
Rookie mistake.
+++
She'll learn.
TOI World Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Jan 02, 2026
Posted by: L - No nic, another fine day at January 02, 2026 11:45 AM
Rookie mistake.
+++
She'll learn.
Posted by: Imelda Marcos at January 02, 2026 11:51 AM (2Ez/1)
171
$600 shoes? Kinda frugal by Democrat politics standard TBH.
AOC rocks $5k dresses when she attends events.
AOC rocks $5k dresses when she attends events.
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 11:51 AM (/CkK4)
172
167 I see some retailers lockup their stuff and make you beg them to unlock it. The locks work. They still have what I came in for. Some Amazon retailer does not (A thousand pardons. I hit the Post button too soon.)
Posted by: Don in SoCo at January 02, 2026 11:51 AM (vd6bO)
173
Locking up stuff in stores is a response to theft, usually massive blatant shoplifting. Its not so awful if there is staff to open things but the problem is that over the years, personnel became so expensive that businesses cannot have sufficient staff on the floor to help out.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 02, 2026 11:52 AM (3Amc7)
174
”If the price depends on who you are instead of what you’re buying, that’s not capitalism.”
It's offensive and nasty, but I don't see why it's not capitalism. You charge what the market will pay. If you're selling into an inefficient market, where prices are not 'known' with great accuracy, that's not the seller's problem. Buyers in turn have the option to improve their efficiency and to seek lowest price suppliers.
It's offensive and nasty, but I don't see why it's not capitalism. You charge what the market will pay. If you're selling into an inefficient market, where prices are not 'known' with great accuracy, that's not the seller's problem. Buyers in turn have the option to improve their efficiency and to seek lowest price suppliers.
Posted by: gp at January 02, 2026 11:52 AM (GHIyr)
175
I recall many years ago, when HOV lanes were being designed for I10 on the west side of Houston. At a meeting with engineering, the idiot mayor asked how wide the main lanes were. "8'10" replied the engineers.
"What is the minimum width allowed?" asked the mayor.
"Eight feet" replied the engineer.
"Redesign them to eight feet even. When people are stuck in traffic jams every day, they will stop driving and take the bus."
"What is the minimum width allowed?" asked the mayor.
"Eight feet" replied the engineer.
"Redesign them to eight feet even. When people are stuck in traffic jams every day, they will stop driving and take the bus."
Posted by: Thomas Paine at January 02, 2026 11:53 AM (0U5gm)
176
Geez. Where do you live? We have none of that at the Walmarts I go to.
Posted by: Dr. Pork Chops & Bacons at January 02, 2026 11:46 AM
Austin
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer
---
When did you move?
Posted by: Dr. Pork Chops & Bacons at January 02, 2026 11:46 AM
Austin
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer
---
When did you move?
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:53 AM (VCgbV)
177
Zohran Mamdani’s wife, Rama Duwaji, faces heat over $630 designer boots worn at the swearing-in ceremony
--
The Somali in the "we wuz robbed" video is wearing near $3k frames.
The Somali in the "opps, I said fraud is bad" clip has a 3-4 karat diamond ring on.
You are out there working like a sucker, a loser, a fool.
--
The Somali in the "we wuz robbed" video is wearing near $3k frames.
The Somali in the "opps, I said fraud is bad" clip has a 3-4 karat diamond ring on.
You are out there working like a sucker, a loser, a fool.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice at January 02, 2026 11:54 AM (HXT0k)
178
Libs of TikTok @libsoftiktok
They’re always either teachers or in the medical field
X image: https://bit.ly/4so8lPr
(Somali woman who said Elon Musk will be dead soon)
They’re always either teachers or in the medical field
X image: https://bit.ly/4so8lPr
(Somali woman who said Elon Musk will be dead soon)
Posted by: Clyde Shelton at January 02, 2026 11:54 AM (P5BPp)
179
---
When did you move?
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:53 AM (VCgbV)
Well, not me.
I still live in the DFW Suckoplex. We hope to change that this spring.
When did you move?
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:53 AM (VCgbV)
Well, not me.
I still live in the DFW Suckoplex. We hope to change that this spring.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 11:54 AM (Zz0t1)
180
Go sit in District Court on the busy day and see the majority of the charges deal with citizens and non-citizens alike not having drivers' licenses, vehicle insurance, registration. (There are some that never had a license plate on their vehicle &/or made a paper license plate for a vehicle and have driven for sometime before being stopped!)
The police must come to court and the great majority reach settlements with their 'clients' (who most often produce a registration, insurance card or license) and have those promptly approved by the magistrate.
The insurance companies know you chase those kinds of people in the event of an accident and you'll be paying, too.
The police must come to court and the great majority reach settlements with their 'clients' (who most often produce a registration, insurance card or license) and have those promptly approved by the magistrate.
The insurance companies know you chase those kinds of people in the event of an accident and you'll be paying, too.
Posted by: L - No nic, another fine day at January 02, 2026 11:55 AM (NFX2v)
181
Ahh, the offspring. I have my middle one looking at the same school.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:55 AM (VCgbV)
182
Locking up stuff in stores is a response to theft, usually massive blatant shoplifting. Its not so awful if there is staff to open things but the problem is that over the years, personnel became so expensive that businesses cannot have sufficient staff on the floor to help out.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 02, 2026 11:52 AM (3Amc7)
++++
I *strongly* suspect that if the "crime is legal" aspect of major cities continues, we're going to see a return to the "catalgoue store" model, albeit with a high-tech twist. Locking up product classes and retrofitting cases for security is hugely expensive both in terms of physical plant and especially in operational costs. Now a paid employee has to wander around unlocking cases for customers all the time. It's monstrously inefficient and unsustainable.
In places where that has to happen, expect inventory to be taken off the floor entirely. Walk in, order from a kiosk, wait 15 minutes, have the employee bring your order out to you from "the back" where all the stuff is behind a couple of locked doors. Go get a coffee or a sandwich while you wait. The food court at the front of the store will still be open to the public.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 02, 2026 11:52 AM (3Amc7)
++++
I *strongly* suspect that if the "crime is legal" aspect of major cities continues, we're going to see a return to the "catalgoue store" model, albeit with a high-tech twist. Locking up product classes and retrofitting cases for security is hugely expensive both in terms of physical plant and especially in operational costs. Now a paid employee has to wander around unlocking cases for customers all the time. It's monstrously inefficient and unsustainable.
In places where that has to happen, expect inventory to be taken off the floor entirely. Walk in, order from a kiosk, wait 15 minutes, have the employee bring your order out to you from "the back" where all the stuff is behind a couple of locked doors. Go get a coffee or a sandwich while you wait. The food court at the front of the store will still be open to the public.
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 11:56 AM (avHHk)
183
Ahh, the offspring. I have my middle one looking at the same school.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:55 AM
You gotta keep 'em separated.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:55 AM
You gotta keep 'em separated.
Posted by: Clyde Shelton at January 02, 2026 11:56 AM (P5BPp)
184
We al know the jokes about mechanics selling blinker fluid. The hoke is based in reality. Someone who has no idea how a car works is paying $1000 for “routine maintenance” while someone who has a clue is paying $300. Same service different price based on the customer.
Also take a $2M house and a $200k house. A plumber comes over to fix a leaky faucet. You think he’s charging both home owners the same amount? I really doubt it.
Also take a $2M house and a $200k house. A plumber comes over to fix a leaky faucet. You think he’s charging both home owners the same amount? I really doubt it.
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 11:56 AM (/CkK4)
185
"see the majority of the charges deal with citizens and non-citizens alike not having drivers' licenses, vehicle insurance, registration."
I watch far too many bodycam vids, and I am astonished by the number of people who drive not just without licenses, but without any form of ID at all.
I watch far too many bodycam vids, and I am astonished by the number of people who drive not just without licenses, but without any form of ID at all.
Posted by: gp at January 02, 2026 11:57 AM (GHIyr)
186
This brunette does her own shopping and is good at structuring discounts:
http://tiny.cc/9c4x001
http://tiny.cc/9c4x001
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 11:57 AM (avHHk)
187
This brunette does her own shopping and is good at structuring discounts:
http://tiny.cc/9c4x001
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 11:57 AM (avHHk)
Denise Richards?
http://tiny.cc/9c4x001
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 11:57 AM (avHHk)
Denise Richards?
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 11:58 AM (Zz0t1)
188
I refused the monitoring system from the insurance company on all my cars. I also don't have that nanny app, life360, to stalk/monitor my kids. The phones already stalk your every move...
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:58 AM (VCgbV)
189
166. Rookie mistake.
Posted by: Somali in $2000 Glasses
Nah. They do it all of the time.
They are respectful and representing their great city as they should, say supporters.
Posted by: Somali in $2000 Glasses
Nah. They do it all of the time.
They are respectful and representing their great city as they should, say supporters.
Posted by: L - No nic, another fine day at January 02, 2026 11:58 AM (NFX2v)
190
Yes this is the whole basis of capitalism
Charge whatever will generate the highest profits and shareholder value!
Charge whatever will generate the highest profits and shareholder value!
Posted by: Aliassmithsmith at January 02, 2026 11:58 AM (GQlWz)
191
In places where that has to happen, expect inventory to be taken off the floor entirely. Walk in, order from a kiosk, wait 15 minutes, have the employee bring your order out to you from "the back" where all the stuff is behind a couple of locked doors. Go get a coffee or a sandwich while you wait. The food court at the front of the store will still be open to the public.
Posted by: Joe Mannix
The Service Merchandise model.
Posted by: Joe Mannix
The Service Merchandise model.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at January 02, 2026 11:59 AM (0U5gm)
Posted by: Jeff Spicoli at January 02, 2026 11:59 AM (Zz0t1)
193
I *strongly* suspect that if the "crime is legal" aspect of major cities continues, we're going to see a return to the "catalgoue store" model, albeit with a high-tech twist.
Service Merchandise.
Had one display model of everything they sold. You took a ticket to the counter, paid, & it popped out of the back on a conveyor belt.
Service Merchandise.
Had one display model of everything they sold. You took a ticket to the counter, paid, & it popped out of the back on a conveyor belt.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 11:59 AM (c115l)
194
Service Merchandise.
Had one display model of everything they sold. You took a ticket to the counter, paid, & it popped out of the back on a conveyor belt.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 11:59 AM (c115l)
++++
Yup. Watch it get tarted up with some new tech and described as the Next Big Idea.
Had one display model of everything they sold. You took a ticket to the counter, paid, & it popped out of the back on a conveyor belt.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 11:59 AM (c115l)
++++
Yup. Watch it get tarted up with some new tech and described as the Next Big Idea.
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 12:00 PM (avHHk)
195
"I refused the monitoring system from the insurance company on all my cars."
I'd gladly accept it for a substantial insurance premium discount, but I asked and there is no discount given, around here anyway.
I'd gladly accept it for a substantial insurance premium discount, but I asked and there is no discount given, around here anyway.
Posted by: gp at January 02, 2026 12:00 PM (GHIyr)
196
In places where that has to happen, expect inventory to be taken off the floor entirely. Walk in, order from a kiosk, wait 15 minutes, have the employee bring your order out to you from "the back" where all the stuff is behind a couple of locked doors. Go get a coffee or a sandwich while you wait. The food court at the front of the store will still be open to the public.
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 11:56 AM (avHHk)
Ah yes, the Soviet GUM model. Except for the coffee or sandwich thing.
In places where that has to happen, expect inventory to be taken off the floor entirely. Walk in, order from a kiosk, wait 15 minutes, have the employee bring your order out to you from "the back" where all the stuff is behind a couple of locked doors. Go get a coffee or a sandwich while you wait. The food court at the front of the store will still be open to the public.
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 11:56 AM (avHHk)
Ah yes, the Soviet GUM model. Except for the coffee or sandwich thing.
Posted by: IllTemperedCur at January 02, 2026 12:00 PM (y9nCu)
197
Make
Horsewhipping
Great
Again
... in public and commensurate to the executives' offenses against customers.
Financial penalties can be laughed off. Whipping scars are forever.
Make
Horsewhipping
Great
Again
... in public and commensurate to the executives' offenses against customers.
Financial penalties can be laughed off. Whipping scars are forever.
Posted by: Krebs v Carnot: Epic Battle of the Cycling Stars (TM) Imprison! Imprison! Imprison! at January 02, 2026 12:01 PM (xG4kz)
198
I'd gladly accept it for a substantial insurance premium discount, but I asked and there is no discount given, around here anyway.
Posted by: gp at January 02, 2026 12:00 PM (GHIyr)
It yells at you if you do something it deems inappropriate while driving.
I don't want or need that.
I'd gladly accept it for a substantial insurance premium discount, but I asked and there is no discount given, around here anyway.
Posted by: gp at January 02, 2026 12:00 PM (GHIyr)
It yells at you if you do something it deems inappropriate while driving.
I don't want or need that.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 12:01 PM (Zz0t1)
199
I watch far too many bodycam vids, and I am astonished by the number of people who drive not just without licenses, but without any form of ID at all.
Posted by: gp at January 02, 2026 11:57 AM (GHIyr)
Thing is if you don’t drive like a crazy person the odds against getting pulled over are very good. People do it because there is little to no incentive for not doing it.
It’s another example of how our high trust society is disintegrating.
Posted by: gp at January 02, 2026 11:57 AM (GHIyr)
Thing is if you don’t drive like a crazy person the odds against getting pulled over are very good. People do it because there is little to no incentive for not doing it.
It’s another example of how our high trust society is disintegrating.
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 12:01 PM (/CkK4)
200
"In places where that has to happen, expect inventory to be taken off the floor entirely."
People are buying more stuff via delivery now. They care less and less about the in-store buying hassles.
People are buying more stuff via delivery now. They care less and less about the in-store buying hassles.
Posted by: gp at January 02, 2026 12:02 PM (GHIyr)
201
Denise Richards always looks disappointed in me. Which, I get. Granted she doesn't even know me, but I understand the sentiment.
Posted by: banana Dream at January 02, 2026 12:02 PM (3uBP9)
202
In the Consumer Reports example. The customer paid about 10,,% or 10 dollars more
How much time was saved ? Was that time saved worth 10 dollars?
How much time was saved ? Was that time saved worth 10 dollars?
Posted by: Aliassmithsmith at January 02, 2026 12:02 PM (GQlWz)
203
Yup. Watch it get tarted up with some new tech and described as the Next Big Idea.
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 12:00 PM (avHHk)
The newer Summit Racing distribution center in Arlington, TX is like that.
Sure, they have a store front, but you can go to the kiosk in the back, enter your request and pay for it, then you'll get your number called when the order is filled and ready for pickup.
Posted by: Joe Mannix (Not a cop!) at January 02, 2026 12:00 PM (avHHk)
The newer Summit Racing distribution center in Arlington, TX is like that.
Sure, they have a store front, but you can go to the kiosk in the back, enter your request and pay for it, then you'll get your number called when the order is filled and ready for pickup.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 12:03 PM (Zz0t1)
204
When Instacart is driven out of business, the same people complaining will whine that they have “online food shopping deserts” . Lol
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 12:03 PM (/CkK4)
205
If the price depends on who you are instead of what you’re buying, that’s not capitalism.
My Medicare premium was increased 396% this year. Because I sold some stock to diversify out of a highly concentrated position. I was shocked, as I'm new to these Medicare rules that determine what you pay based on how much you make.
This is not "insurance". My health has not changed. This is a tax on temporary wealth. This too, is not capitalism, it is communism.
From each according to their ability , to each according to their need. Bah humbug.
My Medicare premium was increased 396% this year. Because I sold some stock to diversify out of a highly concentrated position. I was shocked, as I'm new to these Medicare rules that determine what you pay based on how much you make.
This is not "insurance". My health has not changed. This is a tax on temporary wealth. This too, is not capitalism, it is communism.
From each according to their ability , to each according to their need. Bah humbug.
Posted by: Derak at January 02, 2026 12:03 PM (JQ2/i)
206
Instacart also steals from you. They pay the store. You pay them. Therefore, if the store has a sale they pay the store sale price, but you pay the Instacart website price that's not on sale. I didn't notice for the small items, but I found out on a big ticket item when my shopper texted me the store sale. Instacart refused to credit me the difference, which was $20. I quit them. Now I'm able to pay the store directly, and they honor their in store sales from the circular. They used to use their own delivery service, but now it's Door Dash. I don't drive, so it's still cheaper to use the online service than Uber there and back.
Posted by: hadsil at January 02, 2026 12:04 PM (Xht4H)
207
This is not "insurance". My health has not changed. This is a tax on temporary wealth. This too, is not capitalism, it is communism.
Posted by: Derak at January 02, 2026 12:03 PM (JQ2/i)
"Correct!"
- - - - - - Cheap Justice John Roberts
Posted by: Derak at January 02, 2026 12:03 PM (JQ2/i)
"Correct!"
- - - - - - Cheap Justice John Roberts
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 12:04 PM (Zz0t1)
208
Ah yes, the Soviet GUM model. Except for the coffee or sandwich thing.
Posted by: IllTemperedCur
I visited the GUM store last time I was in Moscow. It was nice, but basically no different than the Galleria. To the average soviet who normally wasn't allowed in, it was probably awe inspiring.
Posted by: IllTemperedCur
I visited the GUM store last time I was in Moscow. It was nice, but basically no different than the Galleria. To the average soviet who normally wasn't allowed in, it was probably awe inspiring.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at January 02, 2026 12:04 PM (0U5gm)
209
It yells at you if you do something it deems inappropriate while driving.
I don't want or need that.
Posted by: Sponge
Ahhhhh. Like driving with the ex wife.
I don't want or need that.
Posted by: Sponge
Ahhhhh. Like driving with the ex wife.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 12:05 PM (c115l)
210
Ahhhhh. Like driving with the ex wife.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 12:05 PM (c115l)
I would imagine quite similar, yes.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 12:05 PM (c115l)
I would imagine quite similar, yes.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 12:06 PM (Zz0t1)
211
Denise Richards always looks disappointed in me. Which, I get. Granted she doesn't even know me, but I understand the sentiment.
Posted by: banana Dream at January 02, 2026 12:02 PM (3uBP9)
It was a young Denise Richards who was the daughter of the president of NBC with great cleavage and George got caught staring…. Jerry was annoyed because everyone knows with cleavage it’s like the sun; you take a peak but don’t stare you’ll get burned…
Posted by: banana Dream at January 02, 2026 12:02 PM (3uBP9)
It was a young Denise Richards who was the daughter of the president of NBC with great cleavage and George got caught staring…. Jerry was annoyed because everyone knows with cleavage it’s like the sun; you take a peak but don’t stare you’ll get burned…
Posted by: LinusVanPelt at January 02, 2026 12:06 PM (/iXAp)
212
Maybe I'm stupid, but can't you defeat this by going to the grocery store and buying groceries for yourself, in person, like normal people did up until ten minutes ago?
Posted by: Possibly Dumb at January 02, 2026 11:21 AM (4PEtT)
Why yes, you can. All I ever do. No apps of any kind on my damned phone.
Posted by: Possibly Dumb at January 02, 2026 11:21 AM (4PEtT)
Why yes, you can. All I ever do. No apps of any kind on my damned phone.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at January 02, 2026 12:07 PM (8zz6B)
213
I visited the GUM store last time I was in Moscow. It was nice, but basically no different than the Galleria. To the average soviet who normally wasn't allowed in, it was probably awe inspiring.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at January 02, 2026 12:04 PM (0U5gm)
Honestly, I've only been to the GUM store in the Ghost Recon video game about 20 years ago...
I visited the GUM store last time I was in Moscow. It was nice, but basically no different than the Galleria. To the average soviet who normally wasn't allowed in, it was probably awe inspiring.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at January 02, 2026 12:04 PM (0U5gm)
Honestly, I've only been to the GUM store in the Ghost Recon video game about 20 years ago...
Posted by: IllTemperedCur at January 02, 2026 12:07 PM (y9nCu)
214
This is not a bug, it is a feature of communism.
Posted by: Gmac - WTF did you think was going to happen? at January 02, 2026 12:08 PM (qZdIZ)
215
When I had progressive insurance if I got their tracking app, I’d save about 5%. Wasn’t worth it.
At 30%….I’d consider it.
At 30%….I’d consider it.
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 12:08 PM (/CkK4)
216
It was a young Denise Richards who was the daughter of the president of NBC with great cleavage and George got caught staring…. Jerry was annoyed because everyone knows with cleavage it’s like the sun; you take a peak but don’t stare you’ll get burned…
Posted by: LinusVanPelt at January 02, 2026 12:06 PM (/iXAp)
This is why, wherever possible, you wear mirrored sunglasses.
Posted by: LinusVanPelt at January 02, 2026 12:06 PM (/iXAp)
This is why, wherever possible, you wear mirrored sunglasses.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 12:08 PM (Zz0t1)
217
I *strongly* suspect that if the "crime is legal" aspect of major cities continues, we're going to see a return to the "catalgoue store" model, albeit with a high-tech twist
The open floor model store is a high-trust society feature. Old timey stores had a few display models up front and everything else in back. It takes a lot of service to run one of those, but its safe from casual theft.
To the average soviet who normally wasn't allowed in, it was probably awe inspiring.
My Russian teacher in high school used to fly out to the Soviet Union every few years (in retrospect I think he was... involved in intelligence, shall we say) during the 80s. He would buy his minder something from the GUM every time and they were always amazed.
The open floor model store is a high-trust society feature. Old timey stores had a few display models up front and everything else in back. It takes a lot of service to run one of those, but its safe from casual theft.
To the average soviet who normally wasn't allowed in, it was probably awe inspiring.
My Russian teacher in high school used to fly out to the Soviet Union every few years (in retrospect I think he was... involved in intelligence, shall we say) during the 80s. He would buy his minder something from the GUM every time and they were always amazed.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 02, 2026 12:08 PM (3Amc7)
218
I visited the GUM store last time I was in Moscow. It was nice, but basically no different than the Galleria. To the average soviet who normally wasn't allowed in, it was probably awe inspiring.
Posted by: Thomas Paine
Well, to them and Tucker Carlson, he of the high-pitched girlish squeals
I visited the GUM store last time I was in Moscow. It was nice, but basically no different than the Galleria. To the average soviet who normally wasn't allowed in, it was probably awe inspiring.
Posted by: Thomas Paine
Well, to them and Tucker Carlson, he of the high-pitched girlish squeals
Posted by: Krebs v Carnot: Epic Battle of the Cycling Stars (TM) Imprison! Imprison! Imprison! at January 02, 2026 12:09 PM (xG4kz)
219
can't believe anyone in 2025 is looking at whatever ills they see, and saying to themselves "You know what would fix this? More government!"
Posted by: BurtTC at January 02, 2026 11:28 AM (dGCAG)
I agree with you
Posted by: BurtTC at January 02, 2026 11:28 AM (dGCAG)
I agree with you
Posted by: ... at January 02, 2026 12:09 PM (E0p3T)
220
Maybe I'm stupid, but can't you defeat this by going to the grocery store and buying groceries for yourself, in person, like normal people did up until ten minutes ago?
Posted by: Possibly Dumb at January 02, 2026 11:21 AM (4PEtT)
Why yes, you can. All I ever do. No apps of any kind on my damned phone.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon
Kroger does e-coupons. You use their app, "clip" the e-coupon, and it knows to apply it to your total checkout price because of your loyalty card.
Posted by: Possibly Dumb at January 02, 2026 11:21 AM (4PEtT)
Why yes, you can. All I ever do. No apps of any kind on my damned phone.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon
Kroger does e-coupons. You use their app, "clip" the e-coupon, and it knows to apply it to your total checkout price because of your loyalty card.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 12:09 PM (c115l)
221
Autonation is almost 100% haggle free. But even there they will find some wiggle room if you push hard enough and they want to move a unit that day.
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 11:23 AM (/CkK4)
Simply buy used cars from private owners. You can still haggle, but you haggle with a principal.
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 11:23 AM (/CkK4)
Simply buy used cars from private owners. You can still haggle, but you haggle with a principal.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at January 02, 2026 12:10 PM (8zz6B)
222
can't you defeat this by going to the grocery store and buying groceries for yourself, in person, like normal people did up until ten minutes ago?
Currently, yes. In the near future, pricing will be accessed by your phone and facial recognition will identify you and adjust for you.
But some people cannot get out and go grocery shopping for various reasons and having stuff delivered is the only real option.
Currently, yes. In the near future, pricing will be accessed by your phone and facial recognition will identify you and adjust for you.
But some people cannot get out and go grocery shopping for various reasons and having stuff delivered is the only real option.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 02, 2026 12:10 PM (3Amc7)
223
There is a reason companies like Google have made a ton of money off of your data even though they also spend a fair amount on buildings software that people want so as to get that data.
I've argued for a long time that software companies should be required on a regular basis to get your permission for every bit of data they collect and for it to be 100% illegal to share that data with any other merchant or data broker
I've argued for a long time that software companies should be required on a regular basis to get your permission for every bit of data they collect and for it to be 100% illegal to share that data with any other merchant or data broker
Posted by: 18-1 at January 02, 2026 12:10 PM (sKqQm)
224
When I had progressive insurance if I got their tracking app, I’d save about 5%. Wasn’t worth it.
At 30%….I’d consider it.
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 12:08 PM (/CkK4)
You're driving down the freeway, minding your own business, doing the speed limit, even. Suddenly, from out of nowhere, someone cuts across 3 lanes in front of you because they decided that's the exit they needed to take.
You take evasive action by slamming the brakes and slowing rapidly to avoid a collision. The stupid monitoring device under your dash starts beeping loudly to let you know it's mad and your insurance rates increase due to your reckless driving.
Yeah, they can take that little device and shove it up their ass.
At 30%….I’d consider it.
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 12:08 PM (/CkK4)
You're driving down the freeway, minding your own business, doing the speed limit, even. Suddenly, from out of nowhere, someone cuts across 3 lanes in front of you because they decided that's the exit they needed to take.
You take evasive action by slamming the brakes and slowing rapidly to avoid a collision. The stupid monitoring device under your dash starts beeping loudly to let you know it's mad and your insurance rates increase due to your reckless driving.
Yeah, they can take that little device and shove it up their ass.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 12:10 PM (Zz0t1)
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Like Shakespeare Except Better at January 02, 2026 12:10 PM (L/fGl)
226
80 Weren't there some predictions made here last year? Did I miss the results post?
Posted by: WTP at January 02, 2026 11:24 AM
***
Results will be posted in the Wednesday ONT.
Posted by: WTP at January 02, 2026 11:24 AM
***
Results will be posted in the Wednesday ONT.
Posted by: TRex - kreskin dino at January 02, 2026 12:11 PM (IQ6Gq)
227
In the Consumer Reports example. The customer paid about 10,,% or 10 dollars more
How much time was saved ? Was that time saved worth 10 dollars?
Posted by: Aliassmithsmith
1) Sean Penn still finds you disgustingly phallic
B) Since both customers were using Instacart, the time saved for that $10 was zero seconds.
How much time was saved ? Was that time saved worth 10 dollars?
Posted by: Aliassmithsmith
1) Sean Penn still finds you disgustingly phallic
B) Since both customers were using Instacart, the time saved for that $10 was zero seconds.
Posted by: mikeski at January 02, 2026 12:12 PM (nhCoE)
228
can't believe anyone in 2025 is looking at whatever ills they see, and saying to themselves "You know what would fix this? More government!"
Posted by: BurtTC at January 02, 2026 11:28 AM (dGCAG)
I agree with you
Posted by: ... at January 02, 2026 12:09 PM (E0p3T)
I think the overall impression from comments is that there are laws preventing this already on the books and they should be applied. No one is clamoring for new laws and growth in government.
Posted by: BurtTC at January 02, 2026 11:28 AM (dGCAG)
I agree with you
Posted by: ... at January 02, 2026 12:09 PM (E0p3T)
I think the overall impression from comments is that there are laws preventing this already on the books and they should be applied. No one is clamoring for new laws and growth in government.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 12:12 PM (Zz0t1)
229
>>> Yeah, they can take that little device and shove it up their ass.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 12:10 PM (Zz0t1)
It reminds me of those thermostats that power companies were giving away "for free" that allowed them to cut your ac. Yeah, that's a no from me chief.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 12:10 PM (Zz0t1)
It reminds me of those thermostats that power companies were giving away "for free" that allowed them to cut your ac. Yeah, that's a no from me chief.
Posted by: banana Dream at January 02, 2026 12:13 PM (3uBP9)
230
It was only a matter of time before the algorithmic system was used as a weapon against ourselves. They have been using it on our smart tv's. Watch something once and bam! you have a whole list of new freakin movies, shows, doc's.
Posted by: sidney at January 02, 2026 12:13 PM (Uy/WF)
231
I know about the electric car hate but if I had the spare change to have an extra car, I would get a Tesla for my daily commute car.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:27 AM (VCgbV)
Good commuter car for those who live in a mild-climate area.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:27 AM (VCgbV)
Good commuter car for those who live in a mild-climate area.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at January 02, 2026 12:14 PM (8zz6B)
232
I *strongly* suspect that if the "crime is legal" aspect of major cities continues, we're going to see a return to the "catalgoue store" model, albeit with a high-tech twist
Mamdami can bring back the Soviet "three-line" stores - one line to select the item, a second line to pay for the item, and a third line to get the item.
Maximizes employment that way.
Mamdami can bring back the Soviet "three-line" stores - one line to select the item, a second line to pay for the item, and a third line to get the item.
Maximizes employment that way.
Posted by: The ARC of History! at January 02, 2026 12:14 PM (xTIDn)
233
218
‘Tucker Carlson, he of the high-pitched girlish squeals’
That may be what discredits him the most with me.
‘Tucker Carlson, he of the high-pitched girlish squeals’
That may be what discredits him the most with me.
Posted by: Dr. Claw at January 02, 2026 12:14 PM (jbnUc)
234
Well, I'm glad that's settled!
Commentary Zohran Mamdani Press Account
@MayorMamdani
In no way was this a NAZI salute or intended to be one.
We can end that debate now.
Commentary Zohran Mamdani Press Account
@MayorMamdani
In no way was this a NAZI salute or intended to be one.
We can end that debate now.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Like Shakespeare Except More Betterer at January 02, 2026 12:14 PM (L/fGl)
235
Totally not a Nazi salute.
https://is.gd/xd5nlO
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks
Total sieg heil from start to finish.
https://is.gd/xd5nlO
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks
Total sieg heil from start to finish.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 12:15 PM (c115l)
236
We do not have capitalism in this country.
We have corporatism; a soft fascism.
But really it's hidden socialism with a cheap suit of a market system.
The bottom 20% get all the benefits.
The top 1% get to rule.
Everyone else gets to pay.
So, of course the stupids with degrees are all against Capitalism. Because they're told their entire life that the US is a capitalist country.
And there is no way the corporatists who are the donor class of the GOP will ever offer an alternative to the current system.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice at January 02, 2026 11:26 AM (HXT0k)
-----
This is no different than the "communism hasn't really been tried" arguments.
We have corporatism; a soft fascism.
But really it's hidden socialism with a cheap suit of a market system.
The bottom 20% get all the benefits.
The top 1% get to rule.
Everyone else gets to pay.
So, of course the stupids with degrees are all against Capitalism. Because they're told their entire life that the US is a capitalist country.
And there is no way the corporatists who are the donor class of the GOP will ever offer an alternative to the current system.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice at January 02, 2026 11:26 AM (HXT0k)
-----
This is no different than the "communism hasn't really been tried" arguments.
Posted by: MAGA_Ken at January 02, 2026 12:15 PM (ACIRI)
Posted by: ... at January 02, 2026 12:15 PM (E0p3T)
238
can't believe anyone in 2025 is looking at whatever ills they see, and saying to themselves "You know what would fix this? More government!"
So for the true blue lefties they just assume if they were given all the power they'd make everything right. Of course their version of right looks like hell, but that's it...
For lefty LIVs its more simple. The media tells them "if there was a law against it people wouldn't do it" and so they repeat the narrative. There could already be a law against it but obviously that didn't cover this case...right?
So for the true blue lefties they just assume if they were given all the power they'd make everything right. Of course their version of right looks like hell, but that's it...
For lefty LIVs its more simple. The media tells them "if there was a law against it people wouldn't do it" and so they repeat the narrative. There could already be a law against it but obviously that didn't cover this case...right?
Posted by: 18-1 at January 02, 2026 12:15 PM (sKqQm)
239
Commentary Zohran Mamdani Press Account
@MayorMamdani
In no way was this a NAZI salute or intended to be one.
We can end that debate now.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks
Sorry jihadi. Your rules.
@MayorMamdani
In no way was this a NAZI salute or intended to be one.
We can end that debate now.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks
Sorry jihadi. Your rules.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 12:15 PM (c115l)
240
Totally not a Nazi salute.
I mean, its not, but its as much of one as Elon's nearly identical gesture.
Good commuter car for those who live in a mild-climate area.
I wouldn't get a Tesla though, I'd get a Leaf or something super cut rate and basic. You're facing a huge surcost in 8-10 years depending on how much you use it so best to keep the price down, particularly as the subsidies have ended.
I mean, its not, but its as much of one as Elon's nearly identical gesture.
Good commuter car for those who live in a mild-climate area.
I wouldn't get a Tesla though, I'd get a Leaf or something super cut rate and basic. You're facing a huge surcost in 8-10 years depending on how much you use it so best to keep the price down, particularly as the subsidies have ended.
Posted by: Christopher R Taylor at January 02, 2026 12:16 PM (3Amc7)
241
Commentary Zohran Mamdani Press Account
@MayorMamdani
In no way was this a NAZI salute or intended to be one.
We can end that debate now.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Like Shakespeare Except More Betterer at January 02, 2026 12:14 PM (L/fGl)
Nope. New rules have already been established.
NAZI!!!!!! THIS PROVES IT!!!!
*I can't wait for Musk to chime in
Commentary Zohran Mamdani Press Account
@MayorMamdani
In no way was this a NAZI salute or intended to be one.
We can end that debate now.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Like Shakespeare Except More Betterer at January 02, 2026 12:14 PM (L/fGl)
Nope. New rules have already been established.
NAZI!!!!!! THIS PROVES IT!!!!
*I can't wait for Musk to chime in
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 12:16 PM (Zz0t1)
242
>>> Totally not a Nazi salute.
https://is.gd/xd5nlO
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks
Total sieg heil from start to finish.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 12:15 PM (c115l)
Isn't he a tiny bit of a National Socialist anyway?
https://is.gd/xd5nlO
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks
Total sieg heil from start to finish.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 12:15 PM (c115l)
Isn't he a tiny bit of a National Socialist anyway?
Posted by: banana Dream at January 02, 2026 12:16 PM (3uBP9)
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 12:16 PM (Zz0t1)
Posted by: banana Dream at January 02, 2026 12:17 PM (3uBP9)
245
Guess one of these days I will have to subscribe to X
Posted by: Skip at January 02, 2026 12:17 PM (Ia/+0)
246
Simply buy used cars from private owners. You can still haggle, but you haggle with a principal.
—
100% agreement. If I buy used it’s almost always private party. Much cheaper cutting out the middle man’s markup. I also sell used cars private. Trading in is basically lighting thousands of dollars on fire. In the past I’ve gone to CarMax get an offer. That’s my worst case scenario is I can get this much number.
Then list it on marketplace for something like 30% more. I honestly don’t get why anyone would trade in. I get convenience but is it really worth thousands, sometimes even $10k+ to save a few hours of work? Each to his own I suppose.
—
100% agreement. If I buy used it’s almost always private party. Much cheaper cutting out the middle man’s markup. I also sell used cars private. Trading in is basically lighting thousands of dollars on fire. In the past I’ve gone to CarMax get an offer. That’s my worst case scenario is I can get this much number.
Then list it on marketplace for something like 30% more. I honestly don’t get why anyone would trade in. I get convenience but is it really worth thousands, sometimes even $10k+ to save a few hours of work? Each to his own I suppose.
Posted by: Really?? at January 02, 2026 12:17 PM (/CkK4)
247
Isn't he a tiny bit of a National Socialist anyway?
Posted by: banana Dream at January 02, 2026 12:16 PM (3uBP9)
And he wants to kill Jews, so there's that.
Isn't he a tiny bit of a National Socialist anyway?
Posted by: banana Dream at January 02, 2026 12:16 PM (3uBP9)
And he wants to kill Jews, so there's that.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 12:17 PM (Zz0t1)
248
But really it's hidden socialism with a cheap suit of a market system.
The bottom 20% get all the benefits.
The top 1% get to rule.
Everyone else gets to pay.
And a non-trivial number of people are paid in the top 50% to serve that bottom 20%. Or at least...theoretically serve them.
Think of the inspectors in MN that were supposedly certifying all those child care centers...
The bottom 20% get all the benefits.
The top 1% get to rule.
Everyone else gets to pay.
And a non-trivial number of people are paid in the top 50% to serve that bottom 20%. Or at least...theoretically serve them.
Think of the inspectors in MN that were supposedly certifying all those child care centers...
Posted by: 18-1 at January 02, 2026 12:17 PM (sKqQm)
249
Nood.
Posted by: Nazdar at January 02, 2026 12:17 PM (NcvvS)
250
NOODlum.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 12:18 PM (Zz0t1)
251
Totally not a Nazi salute.
I mean, its not, but its as much of one as Elon's nearly identical gesture.
Only things missing was the heel click and monocle.
I mean, its not, but its as much of one as Elon's nearly identical gesture.
Only things missing was the heel click and monocle.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 12:18 PM (c115l)
252
It's like an early spring!
"We will replace the frigidity of rugged individualism with the warmth of collectivism," says Mamdani
"We will replace the frigidity of rugged individualism with the warmth of collectivism," says Mamdani
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Like Shakespeare Except More Betterer at January 02, 2026 12:18 PM (L/fGl)
253
Yup. Watch it get tarted up with some new tech and described as the Next Big Idea."
Bezos says "hey"!
Bezos says "hey"!
Posted by: man at January 02, 2026 12:19 PM (xDZRs)
254
Walmart has locked up all the cosmetics and personal care stuff and there is no one around to unlock it. Plus them asking for receipts at the door. I very seldom go there or to Target because they are just gay/trans/lbgtqrstvxyz.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:32 AM (VCgbV)
I don't buy cosmetics, so I don't know if they lock them them up here in AJ. They have a greeter/minder at the door, but about the only time I get asked for a receipt is if I have liquour or beer in the cart. Mostly the minder just smiles and waves me through. I don't mind of the store takes reasonabe steps to hinder shoplifting, because in the end, shoplifting costs me money.
Posted by: lin-duh is offended at January 02, 2026 11:32 AM (VCgbV)
I don't buy cosmetics, so I don't know if they lock them them up here in AJ. They have a greeter/minder at the door, but about the only time I get asked for a receipt is if I have liquour or beer in the cart. Mostly the minder just smiles and waves me through. I don't mind of the store takes reasonabe steps to hinder shoplifting, because in the end, shoplifting costs me money.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at January 02, 2026 12:20 PM (8zz6B)
255
You take evasive action by slamming the brakes and slowing rapidly to avoid a collision. The stupid monitoring device under your dash starts beeping loudly to let you know it's mad and your insurance rates increase due to your reckless driving.
---
Yup.
You get dinged the same for avoiding a collision just as if you were the one driving recklessly.
---
Yup.
You get dinged the same for avoiding a collision just as if you were the one driving recklessly.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice at January 02, 2026 12:22 PM (HXT0k)
256
”If the price depends on who you are instead of what you’re buying, that’s not capitalism.”
================
Sure it is.
I don't see an issue here. Charge what the market will bear, and anyone who doesn't want to pay for Instacart can shop elsewhere.
================
Sure it is.
I don't see an issue here. Charge what the market will bear, and anyone who doesn't want to pay for Instacart can shop elsewhere.
Posted by: Huck Follywood at January 02, 2026 12:23 PM (fUDfS)
257
Somewhat related, though not quite as dynamic - there was a scandal regarding price fixing and collusion within the rent market. An outfit called RealPage provided analysis and algorithms for landlords to price their rental units. In a way, it removed the gap between what renters would pay and what landords would charge - perfect knowledge in a way. Except just on the landlord side. And the landlords that had the most to gain would be the big conglomerates that bought up lots of existing housing. Open question as to how much of that housing was picked up from the sub-prime mortgage scandal.
Looking it up, there was apparently new movement back in November; there was a settlement between RealPage and the government. It probably just got lost in the news due to the Charlie Kirk assassination.
Looking it up, there was apparently new movement back in November; there was a settlement between RealPage and the government. It probably just got lost in the news due to the Charlie Kirk assassination.
Posted by: Another Anon at January 02, 2026 12:26 PM (4h45B)
258
Because HOV Lanes are the chicken wire lanes.
(Inside lane)
When you get out of the HOV lane and try to cross four other lanes so you can make your exit off the freeway, everyone has to slow down to let you over.
Now add twenty other vehicles because y'all arrived at your destination.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 11:36 AM (c115l)
The HOV lanes here in the greater PHX urb have their own exits at major freeway junctions.
I prefer to drive in the outside lane. If I see a freeway jam-up beginning to form ahead of me, I will bail at the next exit and take surface roads.
(Inside lane)
When you get out of the HOV lane and try to cross four other lanes so you can make your exit off the freeway, everyone has to slow down to let you over.
Now add twenty other vehicles because y'all arrived at your destination.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 11:36 AM (c115l)
The HOV lanes here in the greater PHX urb have their own exits at major freeway junctions.
I prefer to drive in the outside lane. If I see a freeway jam-up beginning to form ahead of me, I will bail at the next exit and take surface roads.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at January 02, 2026 12:27 PM (8zz6B)
259
I would be happy with a catalog store. Save me from having to go shopping. I hate going shopping anyway.
Posted by: Case at January 02, 2026 12:29 PM (G1OIb)
260
This is one of the few times when our Administrative state SHOULD step in. It's not 'Instacart' doing this, it's a handful of INDIVIDUALS at Instacart doing this. Investigate, expose, and root out. Embarrass these individuals who conceived the idea, who implemented the idea, and who hired the conceivers. Sunlight.
Posted by: Garfunkel's Sowed Oats at January 02, 2026 12:30 PM (V87Oy)
261
Sure, they have a store front, but you can go to the kiosk in the back, enter your request and pay for it, then you'll get your number called when the order is filled and ready for pickup.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 12:03 PM (Zz0t1)
If I am buying speed equipment, I want it on the shelf so I can comparison shop, and be able to talk to a knowledgable employee about whether a particular unit is right for my intended use.
Posted by: Sponge - F*ck Cancer at January 02, 2026 12:03 PM (Zz0t1)
If I am buying speed equipment, I want it on the shelf so I can comparison shop, and be able to talk to a knowledgable employee about whether a particular unit is right for my intended use.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at January 02, 2026 12:41 PM (8zz6B)
262
Kroger does e-coupons. You use their app, "clip" the e-coupon, and it knows to apply it to your total checkout price because of your loyalty card.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 12:09 PM (c115l)
Kroger in Arizona is Fry's. I won't shop there. And I refuse to participate in any loyalty programs, for any store. Or bank.
Posted by: rickb223 at January 02, 2026 12:09 PM (c115l)
Kroger in Arizona is Fry's. I won't shop there. And I refuse to participate in any loyalty programs, for any store. Or bank.
Posted by: Alberta Oil Peon at January 02, 2026 12:45 PM (8zz6B)
263
That last sentence is quite ironic.
Posted by: Cow Demon at January 02, 2026 01:04 PM (3E+BT)
264
I've been saying this for years--online ordering is a way to distance the company from the consumer.
I also think companies are eliminating most all customer sevice for this. They make you dispute the charge on your CC and then just pay it. Cheaper than hiring a human rep.
I also think companies are eliminating most all customer sevice for this. They make you dispute the charge on your CC and then just pay it. Cheaper than hiring a human rep.
Posted by: Random PJ at January 02, 2026 01:11 PM (RRCAT)
265
This isn’t just online. Buy something at Safeway in the Central Valley in California vs the Bay Area and on non advertised foodstuff there is premium pricing.
But that’s harder to prove.
But that’s harder to prove.
Posted by: The MewTwix at January 02, 2026 02:16 PM (nTRuU)
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World Muslim Leaders Apologize for Nick Berg's Beheading
Michael Moore Goes on Lunchtime Manhattan Death-Spree
Milestone: Oliver Willis Posts 400th "Fake News Article" Referencing Britney Spears
Liberal Economists Rue a "New Decade of Greed"
Artificial Insouciance: Maureen Dowd's Word Processor Revolts Against Her Numbing Imbecility
Intelligence Officials Eye Blogs for Tips
They Done Found Us Out, Cletus: Intrepid Internet Detective Figures Out Our Master Plan
Shock: Josh Marshall Almost Mentions Sarin Discovery in Iraq
Leather-Clad Biker Freaks Terrorize Australian Town
When Clinton Was President, Torture Was Cool
What Wonkette Means When She Explains What Tina Brown Means
Wonkette's Stand-Up Act
Wankette HQ Gay-Rumors Du Jour
Here's What's Bugging Me: Goose and Slider
My Own Micah Wright Style Confession of Dishonesty
Outraged "Conservatives" React to the FMA
An On-Line Impression of Dennis Miller Having Sex with a Kodiak Bear
The Story the Rightwing Media Refuses to Report!
Our Lunch with David "Glengarry Glen Ross" Mamet
The House of Love: Paul Krugman
A Michael Moore Mystery (TM)
The Dowd-O-Matic!
Liberal Consistency and Other Myths
Kepler's Laws of Liberal Media Bias
John Kerry-- The Splunge! Candidate
"Divisive" Politics & "Attacks on Patriotism" (very long)
The Donkey ("The Raven" parody)
News/Chat