Search found 2692 matches

by heartwood
Wed Mar 27, 2024 10:53 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What Movie Have You Recently Watched?
Replies: 11151
Views: 2085846

Re: What Movie Have You Recently Watched?

vnatale wrote: Wed Mar 27, 2024 9:04 pm Tonight tried watching:

Road Warrior 2049

But did not finish.

Way too difficult to follow and way too much talking!
Would you check the title or tell us where you watched it?

Google didn't find Road Warrior 2049

Thanks
by heartwood
Wed Mar 27, 2024 3:39 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Need a new phone, looking for dual-sim
Replies: 12
Views: 1322

Re: Need a new phone, looking for dual-sim

For some discussion see 3/19/24 NYT "The SIM Card Is Going Away. That Might Be Annoying."

https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/revi ... Position=1
by heartwood
Wed Mar 27, 2024 1:37 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Checking account: why?
Replies: 21
Views: 1280

Re: Checking account: why?

With many banks now offering unlimited withdrawals from savings accounts, is there any point for most people, esp with checks having become mostly obsolete? I've requested, respectfully, on similar previous threads, that OP and commentators indicate generally where they live and what COL area it is. In my HCOL area, suburbs just outside a major metropolis, most/all vendors and service people will not take Venmo or similar. In fact I haven't found one yet that will. Many won't take credit cards. It's either check or cash. I hate writing checks, but just reordered checks from Fido 2 days ago. I looked and saw we used approx 100 checks in 12 months. So 8 checks per month. And that's without accounting for bill pay checks. In my location it's ...
by heartwood
Wed Mar 27, 2024 12:58 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Which bank for checking account
Replies: 14
Views: 1039

Re: Which bank for checking account

We've had a checking account at BOA for many years for various reasons: like you mostly local convenience, multi state ATM coverage, safe deposit box availability. The account is free with direct deposit of pension, but last I looked it only pays 0.01% interest. We keep a modest amount at BOA.

We actually write all our checks from the Fidelity CMA account. The associated MM currently pays 5%. We get reimbursement of ATM fees wherever. Check printing is free. Great 24/7 customer service, and more.

BOA recently changed its EFT transfer fees to outside accounts: I believe now no fee for EFT to a linked outside account.

No idea re Chase.

Depending upon your situation I''d go with Fidelity.
by heartwood
Wed Mar 27, 2024 11:25 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Amazon "eligible for return" cost
Replies: 30
Views: 1943

Re: Amazon "eligible for return" cost

DW ordered a Travelon Expansion Crossbody Bag https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MYTDJZV?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details ... Biggest surprise $18.05 postage to return a $48.47 purchase. ... You may have to handle and pay dearly for a return. always look for free returns for such purchases. I guess return options are customer or location specific, because when I click OP's link, Amazon tells me, "Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges" Yup, shows free returns for me as well. Huh, it shows free returns for me as well for our home state address. If I switch to our condo state address I get eligible for return langua...
by heartwood
Tue Mar 26, 2024 10:45 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Amazon "eligible for return" cost
Replies: 30
Views: 1943

Re: Amazon "eligible for return" cost

anon_investor wrote: Tue Mar 26, 2024 10:04 pm
heartwood wrote: Tue Mar 26, 2024 9:49 pm
Why was the WF return rejected? I usually do all my returns to WF.
We also do all our returns at WF w/o any problems Had a return QR code, but WF would not accept the item and sent her back to Amazon.

Apparently it's tied to the "eligible for return" labeling. Again look carefully at the listing when you buy.
PersonalFinanceJam wrote: Tue Mar 26, 2024 10:08 pm For stuff being returned via USPS we always just schedule a pick up. The post person picks up the package when they drop off our normal mail.
We do as well, and we use Pirate Ship for better postage rates. You can arrange the pickups independent of using USPS for postage or using Pirate Ship. However we're in the midst of leaving our condo and no access to a printer and other complications.
by heartwood
Tue Mar 26, 2024 9:49 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Amazon "eligible for return" cost
Replies: 30
Views: 1943

Amazon "eligible for return" cost

I looked for a similar thread w/o finding one. DW ordered a Travelon Expansion Crossbody Bag https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MYTDJZV?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details She changed her mind after it arrived (free shipping), started a return and tried to return at Whole Foods. That was rejected. It was an "eligible for return item". She had to box it, print USPS labels for postage and battery (didn't even know it had one) and drive it to the USPS. Biggest surprise $18.05 postage to return a $48.47 purchase. Promised a credit when Amazon receives it. PSA: pay attention to what it says in the listing re seller, returns, etc. Yes, sold by Amazon, ships from Amazon. You may have to handle and pay dearly for a return. Added: Yes, ...
by heartwood
Tue Mar 26, 2024 1:03 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Good polo shirt brand that lasts
Replies: 46
Views: 5827

Re: Good polo shirt brand that lasts

For many years I wore Territory Ahead tees with good results. The last several years the quality is less, with random pin spot holes after a few washings. I switched to J Crew two years ago and stay satisfied with quality. They're running a Spring sale right now; lots of styles. I buy https://www.jcrew.com/p/mens/categories/clothing/t-shirts/vintage/vintage-wash-cotton-pocket-t-shirt/BW379?display=standard&fit=Classic&color_name=navy&colorProductCode=BW379 I used to buy tees w/o pockets, but now want pockets for my glasses! Oops, I brain exchanged the OPs "polo shirt" for tee shirt. J Crew has both, but I have no recommends for polo shirts since Banana Republic changed it's styling, colors and availability many years ...
by heartwood
Tue Mar 26, 2024 12:41 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Good polo shirt brand that lasts
Replies: 46
Views: 5827

Re: Good polo shirt brand that lasts

For many years I wore Territory Ahead tees with good results. The last several years the quality is less, with random pin spot holes after a few washings.

I switched to J Crew two years ago and stay satisfied with quality.

They're running a Spring sale right now; lots of styles. I buy https://www.jcrew.com/p/mens/categories ... Code=BW379

I used to buy tees w/o pockets, but now want pockets for my glasses!
by heartwood
Tue Mar 26, 2024 11:36 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What Movie Have You Recently Watched?
Replies: 11151
Views: 2085846

Re: What Movie Have You Recently Watched?

Blazing Saddles (1974) on Netflix.

oh so not PC! Oh so very funny!

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blazing_Saddles
by heartwood
Sun Mar 24, 2024 10:49 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Fidelity as a one stop shop
Replies: 6053
Views: 1037041

Re: Fidelity as a one stop shop

- There are different rules and regulations on check fraud. Banks are more rigorous and more helpful, Fidelity uses a third party bank that is not very accessible. And since I cannot place a limit on check size (you can for ATM withdrawals), my entire emergency fund is at risk due to the overdraft setup. However, what I have found is that if there is an unusual check, I do get an email asking to confirm that check, which makes me feel more comfortable. For these reasons and also because a check reveals my account number, I use a separate brokerage account just for checkwriting, manually transferring just enough for each check. How do you know that the bill pay check shows your actual account number? That isn't typical for bill pay services...
by heartwood
Sun Mar 24, 2024 10:27 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Fidelity as a one stop shop
Replies: 6053
Views: 1037041

Re: Fidelity as a one stop shop

- There are different rules and regulations on check fraud. Banks are more rigorous and more helpful, Fidelity uses a third party bank that is not very accessible. And since I cannot place a limit on check size (you can for ATM withdrawals), my entire emergency fund is at risk due to the overdraft setup. However, what I have found is that if there is an unusual check, I do get an email asking to confirm that check, which makes me feel more comfortable. For these reasons and also because a check reveals my account number, I use a separate brokerage account just for checkwriting, manually transferring just enough for each check. How do you know that the bill pay check shows your actual account number? That isn't typical for bill pay services...
by heartwood
Sat Mar 23, 2024 8:58 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Walmart Plus Feels Like A Scam
Replies: 53
Views: 5990

Re: Walmart Plus Feels Like A Scam

Target introduced a new service where you get free delivery, and I think in many markets it's same day. I've been using their drive-up pickup since COVID and it's been great. They always get the order right, it's quick, and they are friendly. I will take Target every day over Walmart. Did they? I just checked and store delivery costs $9.99 with Shipt. With the $99/year membership, delivery is free, but only for orders over $35. In the last several months I looked at several items on Target and found that most I wanted were available at only selected stores and many were not available for delivery at all. Our experience with Walmart+ is mixed. We get it free with Amex Platinum. We prefer Amazon as a better website experience and for ease an...
by heartwood
Fri Mar 22, 2024 8:54 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: When brand names matter and when they don't
Replies: 193
Views: 11787

Re: When brand names matter and when they don't

No one has mentioned Kerrygold butter! Or several other premium butters.
by heartwood
Fri Mar 22, 2024 12:59 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Good Modern Science Fiction
Replies: 766
Views: 150988

Re: Good Modern Science Fiction

This is a great post, I've been quite interested in science fiction lately. Although someone recommended it before, the three-body trilogy, I personally prefer the second and third I liked those books when I read them, but I don't seem interested in reading them again. So that seems to me a vote against them, because the really good books I read again. Hmm. I tried the first volume after it won the 2015 Hugo, but didn't get far. https://www.amazon.com/Three-Body-Problem-Cixin-Liu/dp/0765382032 I did just get on the library wait list after the TV show debuted on Netflix last night. I didn't watch it yet. By some of the creators of the Game of Thrones series. After that hype, the library wait lists are months long already. I'm on several lib...
by heartwood
Thu Mar 21, 2024 6:39 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Fidelity as a one stop shop
Replies: 6053
Views: 1037041

Re: Fidelity as a one stop shop

I've looked (and googled) but can't find an answer. DW and I direct deposit monthly SS into our CMA account. It initially shows as in the Cash account.

Does Fido leave the monthly SS payments in the Cash account or move to the SPRXX money market in my CMA account. Between DW and me it's several dollars difference in interest. Cash account 2.69% v. 5.03 for SPRXX.

I know I've moved it manually several times, but is it automatic after a couple of days when you've set it up for direct deposit.

I guess I might have specified SPRXX when setting up the DD, but don't recall.
by heartwood
Thu Mar 21, 2024 6:24 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Do you tip hotel staff when checking out?
Replies: 145
Views: 6929

Re: Do you tip hotel staff when checking out?

Yes, $3 -$5 per night depending on services rendered.

Recently at the Residence Inn, we did it via a QR code (on a envelope for cash if you'd rather) left by the named person who cleaned our room.
by heartwood
Tue Mar 19, 2024 1:10 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Amazon One Age Verification for alcohol: all Whole Foods locations?
Replies: 2
Views: 890

Re: Amazon One Age Verification for alcohol: all Whole Foods locations?

I finally called Amazon and asked. I was put on hold, and then got what seemed like an unsure/undefinitive answer: "it depends on the location; not at all WF locations".

Yesterday I asked the cashier at the WF location near our condo and was told, no, it doesn't work in that store, you must show your ID if you buy alcohol.

Not sure if that was definitive either. She didn't seem sure about what I was asking. Not a big deal since I seldom buy alcohol at WF at their prices.
by heartwood
Tue Mar 19, 2024 1:03 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: 40 Minutes to Connect in DFW
Replies: 61
Views: 4655

Re: 40 Minutes to Connect in DFW

Hi Bogleheads - I'm planning some travel for this fall. As part of that, I'll be flying cross-country east to west, between two regional airports -- Harrisburg, PA (MDT) and Redmond, OR (RDM). What's semi-amazing to me is that it looks like I'll be able to do it with just one stop, in Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW). It's on American Airlines (of course). The thing is, I would have forty minutes to make the connection. I think though that it's my best bet. The other options I've seen are either more expensive, or require two stops, or take 13 hours from start to finish. Should I keep looking for better options? Am I crazy for considering a forty-minute connection? I suggest you confirm that the arrival and departure gates are in the same terminal ...
by heartwood
Wed Mar 13, 2024 5:03 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Laptop problem
Replies: 12
Views: 1048

Re: Laptop problem

Recently I turned on (activated from sleep mode) my laptop.  All I got was a blank, lighted screen. No keys nor the mouse did anything...nothing worked. Could not reboot, etc.  I called a well known computer tech company and they got me up and running.  The tech suggested that the cause may have been keeping the computer on sleep mode for a long time period. I never heard that before and I was wondering if anybody else has had such an experience.  I frequently have it on sleep mode; never had a problem until now. Had a similar experience a couple of years ago. I googled it (from another laptop). The fix that worked for me was to turn off, remove the battery, reinstall the battery and restart. Worked for me. Your mileage may vary. or try #7...
by heartwood
Wed Mar 13, 2024 3:50 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: How much will you get as Costco Citi reward this year?
Replies: 112
Views: 16732

Re: How much will you get as Costco Citi reward this year?

Re my question of whether anyone has received the Costco Executive Membership 2% rebate, I now see that "The 2% Reward is issued approximately three months prior to the member’s renewal date, in the Renewal Statement, and reflects the Reward earned up until the issue date." So not a calendar year. I also note that what qualifies can vary by where you buy it or how you pay for it, e.g, wine and liquor at the front register qualifies in some states but not others, and generally not at ancillary wine shops that doesn't go through the Costco front register. Costco Travel apparently only qualifies if you pay the amount to Costco, but not if you book through Costco but pay the car rental company directly on your credit card, despite th...
by heartwood
Sun Mar 10, 2024 6:03 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: How Much Cash Do You Keep In Your Home?
Replies: 207
Views: 15481

Re: How Much Cash Do You Keep In Your Home?

Only a couple of emergency twenties and a small bowl of pennies on my dresser. I also have some odd amounts of various foreign currencies left over from my working days -- including some pre-Euro currencies. I've only used the ATM twice since the pandemic started in 2020. Just don't have a call for currency that much anymore. Respectfully , I don't know what a penny (or any coin) is anymore. We got back to our condo (which we rent out a lot) to find a bowl of maybe 50 cents in pennies. I left it in the trash room for the cleaners. I won't pay in coins so I don't carry them. Banks won't take coins unless wrapped. I charge everything I can, even at paying a service up-charge to do so. I leave coins if I'm offered them. There have been severa...
by heartwood
Sun Mar 10, 2024 3:37 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What Movie Have You Recently Watched?
Replies: 11151
Views: 2085846

Re: What Movie Have You Recently Watched?

KBR wrote: Sun Mar 10, 2024 3:07 pm ...
I feel like I should conclude with "GET OFF MY LAWN YOU KIDS!"
Perfect! I've come to the point that I hesitate to post about current/recent movies, TV shows, or music because I almost never have anything positive to say or finish them.
by heartwood
Sat Mar 09, 2024 4:53 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What Movie Have You Recently Watched?
Replies: 11151
Views: 2085846

Re: What Movie Have You Recently Watched?

Amazon Prime #4 in the US Upgraded Ana (Camila Mendes) is an ambitious intern dreaming of a career in the art world while trying to impress her demanding boss Claire (Marisa Tomei). When she's upgraded to first class on a work trip, she meets handsome Will (Archie Renaux), who mistakes Ana for her boss– a white lie that sets off a glamorous chain of events, romance and opportunity, until her fib threatens to surface. 386 IMDb 6.1 1 h 45 min 2024 X-RAY HDR UHD R Comedy · Romance Grade? A! Thanks! I almost watched Upgrade (2018), a cyberpunk action film, but it didn't track with what you posted! At your review suggestion I did watch Upgraded last night and made it to the end, the first in many films and shows I've tried. I enjoyed it as an O...
by heartwood
Thu Mar 07, 2024 7:06 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What Book Are You Currently Reading? Part VI
Replies: 7650
Views: 1723955

Re: What Book Are You Currently Reading? Part VI

I'm currently reading The Year of the Locust by Terry Hayes. https://www.amazon.com/Year-Locust-Thriller-Terry-Hayes-ebook/dp/B0CC6BH1Q8/ref=sr_1_4?crid=BIU6K6ROCYAL&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.83A8SQjOIjSNlM2-tQKwiGVw9PZH489tNyhJZFJBIffT3xl4Hf4Ena0nu0nrwsLu_p-4QAH_gt5K-vXwM3-kmmcuyuJOhMOOcYXveojeuJ30hQpd6hMZ75My8uwdgXEq5IQBxZmvqejl8IVmgzuSE-SEIZIqNd5sLwGUa6StwgBLBg5HtV2VjUHFAnUsCYOOtbRlAA9dBAgv-ORIDDh0rpguz3rMR1rjUdD6APobDaI.S3Hks4XHgOuWVGqOS5H9xb9mpnURXKgFrw-LbYNIOUQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=i+am+pilgrim+terry+hayes&qid=1709838936&sprefix=i+a%2Caps%2C295&sr=8-4 He's the author of I Am Pilgrim from about 10 yrs ago. I recall how much I enjoyed that one. So much (I recall) that I'll go back and reread it after this one. https://www...
by heartwood
Thu Mar 07, 2024 1:36 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What Book Are You Currently Reading? Part VI
Replies: 7650
Views: 1723955

Re: What Book Are You Currently Reading? Part VI

I'm currently reading The Year of the Locust by Terry Hayes. https://www.amazon.com/Year-Locust-Thriller-Terry-Hayes-ebook/dp/B0CC6BH1Q8/ref=sr_1_4?crid=BIU6K6ROCYAL&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.83A8SQjOIjSNlM2-tQKwiGVw9PZH489tNyhJZFJBIffT3xl4Hf4Ena0nu0nrwsLu_p-4QAH_gt5K-vXwM3-kmmcuyuJOhMOOcYXveojeuJ30hQpd6hMZ75My8uwdgXEq5IQBxZmvqejl8IVmgzuSE-SEIZIqNd5sLwGUa6StwgBLBg5HtV2VjUHFAnUsCYOOtbRlAA9dBAgv-ORIDDh0rpguz3rMR1rjUdD6APobDaI.S3Hks4XHgOuWVGqOS5H9xb9mpnURXKgFrw-LbYNIOUQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=i+am+pilgrim+terry+hayes&qid=1709838936&sprefix=i+a%2Caps%2C295&sr=8-4 He's the author of I Am Pilgrim from about 10 yrs ago. I recall how much I enjoyed that one. So much (I recall) that I'll go back and reread it after this one. https://www....
by heartwood
Mon Mar 04, 2024 11:37 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Amazon One Age Verification for alcohol: all Whole Foods locations?
Replies: 2
Views: 890

Re: Amazon One Age Verification for alcohol: all Whole Foods locations?

I'm a satisfied user of the Amazon One Palm Scan checkout system at Whole Foods and Amazon Fresh. My palm links me to my Amazon Prime Visa card without a phone number or QR code, and w/o tapping my CC or GooglePay on my phone. It automatically applies my Prime discounts at checkout. I see that there's an option to upload government issued ID that will confirm you're of age to buy alcohol without showing the ID at checkout, only your palm. When I read the Help at https://one.amazon.com/help it only mentions Coors Field and other arenas, and Panera. Surprised that the FAQs are so lacking or out of date. Googling didn't help either. Before I go through the process of adding ID, has anyone bought alcohol at WF or AF using the Palm Scan and not...
by heartwood
Sun Mar 03, 2024 9:03 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Amazon One Age Verification for alcohol: all Whole Foods locations?
Replies: 2
Views: 890

Amazon One Age Verification for alcohol: all Whole Foods locations?

I'm a satisfied user of the Amazon One Palm Scan checkout system at Whole Foods and Amazon Fresh. My palm links me to my Amazon Prime Visa card without a phone number or QR code, and w/o tapping my CC or GooglePay on my phone. It automatically applies my Prime discounts at checkout. I see that there's an option to upload government issued ID that will confirm you're of age to buy alcohol without showing the ID at checkout, only your palm. When I read the Help at https://one.amazon.com/help it only mentions Coors Field and other arenas, and Panera. Surprised that the FAQs are so lacking or out of date. Googling didn't help either. Before I go through the process of adding ID, has anyone bought alcohol at WF or AF using the Palm Scan and not ...
by heartwood
Sat Mar 02, 2024 1:00 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: How much will you get as Costco Citi reward this year?
Replies: 112
Views: 16732

Re: How much will you get as Costco Citi reward this year?

Re my question of whether anyone has received the Costco Executive Membership 2% rebate, I now see that "The 2% Reward is issued approximately three months prior to the member’s renewal date, in the Renewal Statement, and reflects the Reward earned up until the issue date." So not a calendar year. I also note that what qualifies can vary by where you buy it or how you pay for it, e.g, wine and liquor at the front register qualifies in some states but not others, and generally not at ancillary wine shops that doesn't go through the Costco front register. Costco Travel apparently only qualifies if you pay the amount to Costco, but not if you book through Costco but pay the car rental company directly on your credit card, despite the...
by heartwood
Sat Mar 02, 2024 12:06 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: [What TV Show Have You Recently Watched?]
Replies: 5993
Views: 699700

Re: [What TV Show Have You Recently Watched?]

Elsbeth on CBS. It's a spin off from the Good Fight or is it the Good Wife?

Tried to like it since the producers, Robert and Michelle King, have done good jobs with the other series. I just find the character too annoying and won't watch another.
by heartwood
Fri Mar 01, 2024 3:43 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: NJ Pension Retiree IRMAA Reimbursment - 2021
Replies: 27
Views: 4714

Re: NJ Pension Retiree IRMAA Reimbursment - 2024 UPDATE

PSA and 2024 Update The NJ Medicare IRMAA Part B and IRMAA Part D reimbursement website is open as of today. https://www.benefitsolver.com/benefits/BenefitSolverView click MyChoice Accounts under Submit IRMAA Reimbursements on the upper right. IMO bad page design overall. Must file once for retiree Part B, file again for retiree Part D, again for spouse Part B, and again for spouse Part D. Each time you must attach your SS 2023 benefits letter and your 2023 SSA 1099, and the same for spouse. You need to calculate what Part B (same later for Part D) total amount you're claiming, then enter the start date and end dates that you are claiming, e.g., 01/01/2023 - 12/31/23 by clicking on a calendar. I had a hard time with that on my screen; it ke...
by heartwood
Thu Feb 29, 2024 9:17 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: How much will you get as Costco Citi reward this year?
Replies: 112
Views: 16732

Re: How much will you get as Costco Citi reward this year?

My voucher hit the Costco Citi app just before 10 PM on the 29th. So technically I got it "in February" as promised in the January email. No email voucher received yet.

I've locked the Citi card and no longer use it. I don't qualify for direct deposit since I stopped using the Costco Citi Visa awhile ago. My spending patterns no longer warrant having to wait a year to get my next payout (February 2025!). I've switched it all to the 2% Fidelity Visa or Amex everyday for 3% on gas (and groceries.) The extra few dollars aren't worth the wait to me.

Has anyone received the Costco Executive Member bonus payout? I'd like to do one trip to the warehouse rather than two trips.
by heartwood
Thu Feb 29, 2024 1:40 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: How much will you get as Costco Citi reward this year?
Replies: 112
Views: 16732

Re: How much will you get as Costco Citi reward this year?

BogleTaxPro wrote: Thu Feb 29, 2024 1:35 pm We got our email a week ago. Check your spam folder?
Yes, not in spam, and nothing at citi online. Our account closes on the 27th or 28th of the month. Nothing on the new statement either.

Citi found me in January with the heads up it was coming.

I'll give it another day and call. Drat!

Been putting off the trip to Costco until the rewards come. Running out of stuff!

Anyone get the Costco Exec Rewards?
by heartwood
Thu Feb 29, 2024 1:28 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: How much will you get as Costco Citi reward this year?
Replies: 112
Views: 16732

Re: How much will you get as Costco Citi reward this year?

OLD THREAD

Anyone receive either their Costco Citi VISA Reward or Costco Executive Memeberhip Reward?

Citi sent me an email in January saying "You'll receive your credit card reward certificate via email in February."

Today's Feb 29 and no email. My cards are locked, but I can't imagine that would affect receiving the reward.

Anyone get theirs?
by heartwood
Wed Feb 28, 2024 1:38 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: early morning Easter Sunday Uber at EWR - any actual experiences?
Replies: 5
Views: 1327

early morning Easter Sunday Uber at EWR - any actual experiences?

I searched here and on the web without finding any information on the availability of Uber or Lyft early (6 AM) on a major holiday (Easter).

We booked a flight arrival months ago not realizing March 31 is Easter Sunday. Our usual private car service is unavailable Easter morning. We've done Uber before w/o any problems on non-holidays.

I'm OK with congestion pricing, but concerned about availability. Uber doesn't allow reserve pickup at the airport.

I'll investigate alternative car services, but hope for some feedback from travelers under similar early major holiday times.
by heartwood
Tue Feb 27, 2024 11:22 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: [What TV Show Have You Recently Watched?]
Replies: 5993
Views: 699700

Re: [What TV Show Have You Recently Watched?]

Tracker on CBS.

Based on the Jeffery Deaver Colter Shaw character. I've read and enjoyed the several books. I've watched two of the shows.

From Variety: "Stoic and aloof, Colter travels around the country with his Airstream trailer hooked to his pickup truck, tracking down people and objects for a fee."

Watchable. Stars Justin Hartley from This Is Us.
by heartwood
Tue Feb 27, 2024 11:14 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Fidelity as a one stop shop
Replies: 6053
Views: 1037041

Re: Fidelity one-stop - backup option for writing checks

You can just ask Fidelity to send you a box of checks, they will. Or you can order checks from a 3rd party if you want to pay for them to get a cute logo or something. For some reason I thought they would only mail printed checks - looking into this. I think you just print out and fill out the checkwriting form, (I think it's located at https://www.fidelity.com/bin-public/060_www_fidelity_com/documents/customer-service/CHECKWRITING.pdf ) or https://scs.fidelity.com/accounts/onlineforms/onlineforms.shtml?formName=CHECKWRITING&blank=Y . Then you scan and upload it. While the form says it arrives in two weeks, it's been taking longer than three weeks recently. It's easier than that. Either call them and ask for checks or do it online. Cas...
by heartwood
Thu Feb 22, 2024 8:53 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What Book Are You Currently Reading? Part VI
Replies: 7650
Views: 1723955

Re: What Book Are You Currently Reading? Part VI

Just about finished with "Robert Parker's Fallout" by Mike Lupica. Another Jesse Stone mystery set in Paradise, Ma. Nothing heavy about this, pure entertainment. Sometimes one needs to be entertained. Jesse Stone series provides that. Ed Love the Jesse Stone films. Never read the books. How do they compare? I’ve only read his Spenser novels. I was reminded by the What Movie Have you Recently Watched thread that I recently read the new Jesse Stone novel by Mike Lupica. https://www.amazon.com/Robert-Parkers-Fallout-Jesse-Stone-ebook/dp/B09N6QRTSN?ref_=ast_author_dp Lupica is a sportswriter who's apparently been picked by the Robert Parker estate to continue the Stone, Sunny Randall and Spenser characters. I enjoyed the book, it's g...
by heartwood
Mon Feb 19, 2024 12:19 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What Movie Have You Recently Watched?
Replies: 11151
Views: 2085846

Re: What Movie Have You Recently Watched?

Leave The World Behind - a 10/10, and this week's news about Putin putting nukes in space to attack our satellites sent a chill down my spine. Now reading the book. This is a must-see movie. Better than I expected! I thought it was excellent just about from the moment it started. And, was staying that way while watching. Highly suspenseful movie. However, it had a completely unsatisfactory ending. I no inkling it was going to end until it just did. During the movie there were tons of intimations of this and this but they were all left unresolved by the abrupt ending of the movie. My mileage varies from most posts here on the movie. I watched it last December and found it to be a waste of talent and my time. I did google the ending to get a...
by heartwood
Thu Feb 15, 2024 9:24 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What's The Latest On Tap, Swipe, Or Insert?
Replies: 44
Views: 3958

Re: What's The Latest On Tap, Swipe, Or Insert?

As above, I use google wallet on my pixel phone to tap or actually to proximity read my card information. It uses a virtual card number for whichever card I want to use.

But, at Whole Foods and Amazon Fresh stores I just use my left or right palm print to charge to my Chase Amazon Prime Visa card. It's no-contact, but scans my palm. It then connects the correct Amazon Prime account to get my Prime discounts and connect to the additional Chase cash back (5% at WF and AF).

I wish all credit card charges were like that: no card, no watch, no phone number or smart phone, just my palm. Could be another Amazon innovation that will change things.
by heartwood
Thu Feb 15, 2024 1:00 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What's The Latest On Tap, Swipe, Or Insert?
Replies: 44
Views: 3958

Re: What's The Latest On Tap, Swipe, Or Insert?

murrays wrote: Thu Feb 15, 2024 12:48 pm For more security, activate ApplePay on your iPhone so your credit card number isn't shared with the merchant and your card stays in your pocket.
Same with Google Wallet on my pixel phone. I always use it at tap locations or at some online sites that can use it. It uses and shows the last several digits of a virtual card number but charges your original card.
by heartwood
Thu Feb 15, 2024 12:45 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What is your favorite book?
Replies: 187
Views: 20522

Re: What is your favorite book?

A Confederacy of Dunces , by John Kennedy Toole I really like this one too. It's enjoyable and hilarious even though the main character is despicable. My wife and I have read it, and I sometimes jokingly tell her, "I fear my valve will be closed forever" after completing some small task for her. :D It is the only book my wife and I have both read. She read it because she saw me laughing so hard throughout the book. “I mingle with my peers or no one, and since I have no peers, I mingle with no one.” I've started Confederacy of Dunces at least twice and maybe three times. First when it won the Pulitzer (1981), then again several or more years later. And perhaps a 3rd time too. I've never finished it! I've always enjoyed the first h...
by heartwood
Wed Feb 14, 2024 1:08 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: "known issue" with Amazon Prime Visa at Whole Foods
Replies: 9
Views: 1681

Re: "known issue" with Amazon Prime Visa at Whole Foods

SmileyFace wrote: Wed Feb 14, 2024 12:42 pm To be clear - you got the Prime discount prices BUT it didn't show up on the receipt clearly?
Yes, got the discount but was only lumped in "total savings" at btm.

I mentioned in my OP "More of a PSA than a real problem except as a waste of my time and now, lack of confidence ."
by heartwood
Wed Feb 14, 2024 11:49 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: "known issue" with Amazon Prime Visa at Whole Foods
Replies: 9
Views: 1681

Re: "known issue" with Amazon Prime Visa at Whole Foods

I recently downloaded the Whole Foods app, and configured it to register my Amazon Prime Visa card, so now when I check out at Whole Foods I bring up the app to show a QR code which they scan at the cash register. That seems to do the trick, i.e. gets me the extra sale prices as a Prime member at Whole Foods. Then of course, there's the 5% points back on the credit card after the fact. It does seem that they should be able to determine from your credit card that you are a Prime member and give you the discounts, but for now, there seems to be this extra step of scanning the QR code from the app when you check out and before you pay. I used to do the QR code or enter the phone associated with my Prime account. That worked. A couple of month...
by heartwood
Tue Feb 13, 2024 7:03 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: "known issue" with Amazon Prime Visa at Whole Foods
Replies: 9
Views: 1681

"known issue" with Amazon Prime Visa at Whole Foods

More of a PSA than a real problem except as a waste of my time and now, lack of confidence . Just shopped at WF using my Amazon Prime Visa using my palm at checkout. My paper receipt shows each of 10 items. It shows price and "sale" prices for three items. What it does not list are the Prime prices for those items as listed in emails I received and in store signage. I had a few minutes and called Amazon Prime. After a few go arounds I was told that it's a "known issue", but that I did in fact get my additional Prime discount in the totals at the end of the receipt, even though there is no breakout or a listing for Prime pricing or discounts. For example, 20 tulip stems are $21.99, but on sale for $18.65. The Prime price ...
by heartwood
Mon Feb 12, 2024 2:16 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: [What TV Show Have You Recently Watched?]
Replies: 5993
Views: 699700

Re: [What TV Show Have You Recently Watched?]

After much, much advertising that Tracker would debut immediately after the Super Bowl, only the teaser trailer was available yesterday on Paramount+. And some episodes later this week on CBS. I guess the OT had CBS in a scramble :D , but what happened at P+?

I see it's available today on Paramount + and will give it a try soon.

Only after watching the trailer did I realize it's based on the Colter Shaw character by Jeffery Deaver. I've read all of those novels.
by heartwood
Mon Feb 12, 2024 2:06 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What Movie Have You Recently Watched?
Replies: 11151
Views: 2085846

Re: What Movie Have You Recently Watched?

Mission Impossible:Dead Reckoning on Paramount+

Watchable at best. I had a very hard time following, esp the 1st hour.

Tom has aged, as have we all.
by heartwood
Sun Feb 11, 2024 4:06 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What Book Are You Currently Reading? Part VI
Replies: 7650
Views: 1723955

Re: What Book Are You Currently Reading? Part VI

vnatale wrote: Sun Feb 11, 2024 3:45 pm
billyo44 wrote: Thu Feb 08, 2024 12:58 pm The JFK Assassination Chokeholds by James DiEugenio, Paul Bleau, Matt Crumpton, Andrew IIer, and Mark Adamczyk. :thumbsup
Could not find this book at Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/JFK-Assassinatio ... B0CL5VCFBH

kindle, hardcover and paperback
by heartwood
Sun Feb 11, 2024 3:57 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Supermarket pizza - any good ones? Any great ones?
Replies: 174
Views: 16190

Re: Supermarket pizza - any good ones? Any great ones?

I had posted this at the gluten free thread before I saw this thread. I think the Kirkland is excellent even if you don't need gluten free. For years our go-to frozen GF pizza has been Freschetta. It comes in margarhita, pepperoni or four cheese. https://www.freschetta.com/collections/freschetta-gluten-free The crust is rice starches and tapioca. We prefer the four cheese and add our own sausage. It's gotten pricey, currently $16.50 for one in the stores near our condo, with generally very limited availability. We'd thought we'd tried all the other available brands and in general do not like Cauliflower crusts. While in Costco I saw the Kirkland Supreme Cauliflower pizza. It was 2 for $11.99. No way to go seriously wrong trying it; two for ...
by heartwood
Sun Feb 11, 2024 11:34 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: going gluten-free
Replies: 55
Views: 4584

Re: going gluten-free

For years our go-to frozen GF pizza has been Freschetta. It comes in margarhita, pepperoni or four cheese. https://www.freschetta.com/collections/freschetta-gluten-free The crust is rice starches and tapioca. We prefer the four cheese and add our own sausage. It's gotten pricey, currently $16.50 for one in the stores near our condo, with generally very limited availability. We'd thought we'd tried all the other available brands and in general do not like Cauliflower crusts. While in Costco I saw the Kirkland Supreme Cauliflower pizza. It was 2 for $11.99. No way to go seriously wrong trying it; two for less than one of the other, and it was available. It's great! Very generous toppings and excellent taste and texture. The only drawback is t...