I heard through the grapevine that some big retailers in town are doing the same thing. A harbinger?

Just don't try messing with my meat and potatoes. They can have the rice.

Just how big is a big bad of rice?

Well if everyone just bought their normal quantity of rice there wouldn't be a shortage I'm sure. But at times like this- we the people create a shortage based on fear by bulk buying.

I prefer bulgar wheat anyway and occasionally couscous. (I'm not saying these are cheaper alternatives, but probably AVAILABLE alternatives.)

The bulgar has much more flavor. Just use 1 quantity wheat to 2 quantities of water, bring gently to a boil, cover, turn off the heat and let it stand until it's fluffy.

You can easily turn this into a pilau by adding meats and herbs.