Thomas Fenady

37
Information technology salesman
Los Angeles

How has the financial and economic turmoil affected you and your family?

I'm looking at my portfolio down 20%. We're spending less time eating out. We're cutting coupons more.

How long do you think it'll take before the economy recovers?

I think it will take three years. It should be a little better in 12 to 18 months, though.

If the economy and the markets don't improve until 2009, how will this affect you and your family?

I'm riding my motorcycle to work three times a week. That's 50 miles per gallon vs. my SUV, which gets 15.

What should be done to make things better?

I'm always in favor of lower taxes regardless of the situation. I think we need to take an honest look at all the services the government provides.

And, last, how have recent economic and financial worries changed your Starbucks habit?

My wife was a steady $3.50 every day. She just bought one of those Tassimo machines. She makes espresso at home for $1.

—Christopher Palmeri