NYCity Snapshot: Spending Takes a Holiday

Rene Decruz, 29, Brooklyn

CloseRene Decruz, 29, Brooklyn

[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/Sequence-1_1-22.mp3|titles=Sequence 1_1-2]

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Meetings administrator, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11216,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Tom DiChristopher | Permalink
Donna Bush, 50, Brooklyn

CloseDonna Bush, 50, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33350549

“We don’t plan to buy any tree. Usually we buy a 40 dollar real Christmas tree.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Teacher, Age: 35-54, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11214, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Carla Astudillo | Permalink
Ryan Griffin, 26, Manhattan

CloseRyan Griffin, 26, Manhattan

http://vimeo.com/33352141

“I really had no money. I was like searching the clearance racks, just like scrounging for anything to pull out to give to friends and family.”

Borough: Queens, Occupation: Student, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11206, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend more this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Cara Eisenpress | Permalink
Stephanie Coughlan, 29, Brooklyn

CloseStephanie Coughlan, 29, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33351188

“I’m a waitress so of course the tips are tight because everybody’s broke.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Server, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11220,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Erin Horan | Permalink
John Leonard, 59, Brooklyn

CloseJohn Leonard, 59, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33348484

“I don’t celebrate holidays.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Retired, Age: 35-54, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11201, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Nabil Rahman | Permalink
Amy Chernoff, 45, Brooklyn

CloseAmy Chernoff, 45, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33348516

“We’re focused more on holiday traditions and family experiences.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Designer, Age: 35-54, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11201, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Sean Flynn | Permalink
Nena Área, 47, Manhattan

CloseNena Área, 47, Manhattan

http://vimeo.com/33348839

“There isn’t much money. There isn’t much money to buy gifts.”

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: Coffee shop employee, Age: 35-54, Gender: Female, Zip code: 10034, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Kimie Bunyasaranand | Permalink
Renee Cooley, 65, Brooklyn

CloseRenee Cooley, 65, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33347810

“My charitable contributions have increased this year because my business is doing better.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Architectural lighting designer, Age: 65+, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11217, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Martin Burch | Permalink
Nathaniel Gould, 22, Bay Ridge

CloseNathaniel Gould, 22, Bay Ridge

http://vimeo.com/33348515

“I’d love to go to Vermont with my high school friends.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Self-employed, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11209,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Dobrina Zhekova | Permalink
David Harwell, 24, Brooklyn

CloseDavid Harwell, 24, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33349027

“I would like a job for the holidays, man. That’d be nice.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Unemployed, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11218, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Anika Anand | Permalink
Ross Tice, 32, Brooklyn

CloseRoss Tice, 32, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/32991512

“Just some quality time with the people I love and no drama. ….Probably won’t cost anything actually.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Nurse, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11226, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Elbert Chu | Permalink
Tay Harris, 20, Brooklyn

CloseTay Harris, 20, Brooklyn

“Prices are getting to be a little out of hand.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/ToilTown.mp3]

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Student, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11215, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Katharine Trafecante | Permalink
Joan Barbarito, 70, Queens

CloseJoan Barbarito, 70, Queens

“I’m out of work three years and I’m not gonna spend anything for Christmas.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/TT.mp3]

Borough: Queens, Occupation: Unemployed, Age: 65+, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11361, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Melissa Bykofsky | Permalink
Christian Valerio, 23, Queens

CloseChristian Valerio, 23, Queens

“I had moved out to the city but I had to move back into my parents house.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/CValerio2.mp3]

Borough: Queens, Occupation: Student, unemployed, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11418, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Anna Halkidis | Permalink
Michael Cohen, 67, Manhattan

CloseMichael Cohen, 67, Manhattan

http://vimeo.com/33188233

“I am going to spend less due to the general level of uncertainty.”

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: College professor, Age: 65+, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10012, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Madhura Karnik | Permalink
Tom Colina, 57, Queens

CloseTom Colina, 57, Queens

http://vimeo.com/33192745

“No gifts, it’s ridiculous! It’s basically rent and food.”

Borough: Queens, Occupation: Professional singer, Age: 55-64, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11358, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Adam Warner | Permalink
Natasha Uria, 27, Brooklyn

CloseNatasha Uria, 27, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33191704

“I have to spend New Year’s Eve on a plane coming back from visiting my family in Florida because the tickets were too expensive.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Freelancer, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11216, Health Insurance: No,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Rebecca Sesny | Permalink
Emma Goldman, 25, Manhattan

CloseEmma Goldman, 25, Manhattan

http://vimeo.com/33189099

“The economy is affecting my holiday season because I can’t afford to be with my family.”

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: Farmer, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 10010, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Jaclyn Snow | Permalink
Matilde Diaz, 71, Queens

CloseMatilde Diaz, 71, Queens

http://vimeo.com/33189451

“The economy has nothing to do with getting together with the relatives and enjoying their company. Nothing at all.”

Borough: Queens, Occupation: Retired teacher, Age: 65+, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11414, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Lee | Permalink
Cecily Moore, 20, Manhattan

CloseCecily Moore, 20, Manhattan

http://vimeo.com/33188979

“It’s always a struggle. My extended family lives in Missouri so I kind of have to pinch and save a little bit more to get there.”

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: Student, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 10018, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Briggette Sayegh | Permalink
Keith Jones, 45, Manhattan

CloseKeith Jones, 45, Manhattan

http://vimeo.com/33192362

“It’s making me consolidate everything.”

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: Call center representative, Age: 35-54, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10128, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Joseph Stepansky | Permalink
Digeorgia Biz, 36, Queens

CloseDigeorgia Biz, 36, Queens

http://vimeo.com/33189068

“Honestly, it’s even better than last year. Maybe, I’m an exception.”

Borough: Queens, Occupation: Pricing research analyst, Age: 35-54, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11103, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend more this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Raed El Rafei | Permalink
Tim Roper, 26, Manhattan

CloseTim Roper, 26, Manhattan

http://vimeo.com/33189193

“It’s the first semester I’m in graduate school so…I’m going to spend less.”

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: Graduate student, high school teacher, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10035, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Matthew McNulty | Permalink
Dennis Moore, 47, Brooklyn

CloseDennis Moore, 47, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33189242

“Major companies basically don’t hire people. They’re just looking to make a profit.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Postal worker, Age: 35-54, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11218, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend more this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Justin Mitchell | Permalink
Abra Moraweic, 25, Brooklyn

CloseAbra Moraweic, 25, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33165290

“I would probably be making gifts for my friends, you know, something that I don’t have to spend a lot of money on, but, you know, it still comes from the heart and it still kind of reflects what Christmas or you know, the holidays are all about.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Social Service, Photographer, Small Business Owner, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11218, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Lisa Mahapatra | Permalink
Ethan Bull, 33, Brooklyn

CloseEthan Bull, 33, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33167955

“Well I had a good year this year, so… spread it around,” said Ethan Bull.

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Filmmaker/musician, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11238, Health Insurance: No,
Plans to spend more this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Christine Streich | Permalink
Vincent Marano, 50, Bronx

CloseVincent Marano, 50, Bronx

http://vimeo.com/33167376

“My students… want to organize a Christmas party for homeless children, so they are much better than I am at this holiday season, let me tell you.”

Borough: Bronx, Occupation: Assistant Principal, Age: 35-54, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10451, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Evan Buxbaum | Permalink
Bill Power, 40, Brooklyn

CloseBill Power, 40, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33167105

“The economy has hurt me so bad that I am literally starting from scratch.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Carpenter, unemployed, Age: 35-54, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11215, Health Insurance: No,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Dennis O'Reilly | Permalink
Ernest Acosta, 47, Brooklyn

CloseErnest Acosta, 47, Brooklyn

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Legal Secretary/Screenwriter/Disc Jockey, Age: 35-54, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11205, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Brenna Walton | Permalink
Richard Cancel, 59, Manhattan

CloseRichard Cancel, 59, Manhattan

http://vimeo.com/33166512

“I try to be happy here. Life is just too short. I appreciate what I have.”

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: Unemployed, Age: 55-64, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10023, Health Insurance: No,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Joanna Fantozzi | Permalink
Kesha Young, 37, Brooklyn

CloseKesha Young, 37, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33166050

‘I’ll be utilizing my imagination to create homemade gifts.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Teacher, Age: 35-54, Zip code: 11216, Health Insurance: No,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Camille Hamet | Permalink
Anna Lioliou, 19, Brooklyn

CloseAnna Lioliou, 19, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33165065

“In Christmas, even if I’m not good with money, I’m always going to spend the right amount in the right people.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Student, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11238, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Patricia Rey Mallén | Permalink
Rick Dinaro, 28, Brooklyn

CloseRick Dinaro, 28, Brooklyn

“The bad economy isn’t going to keep me from getting anything more than I would normally.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/Rick-Dinaro-Audio.mp3|titles=Rick Dinaro On How The Economy is Affecting His Holiday Plans ]

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Student, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11219, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Amital Isaac | Permalink
Daniel Herrick, 26, Queens

CloseDaniel Herrick, 26, Queens

“With me and my family we don’t really go all out…I guess we look at it as a spiritual kind of thing.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/Dan-Herrick1.mp3|titles=Dan Herrick]

Borough: Queens, Occupation: Real estate, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11355, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Casey Quinlan | Permalink
Billy Rohan, 30, Manhattan

CloseBilly Rohan, 30, Manhattan

“My family’s from Florida, so it costs almost $1000 to go from here to there, round trip, if you don’t get your ticket in time…It makes you wonder, are you going to stay here in New York and not see your family, just to save money?”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/Billy-Rohan-edited-vox.mp3|titles=Billy Rohan, 30]

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: Retail worker, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10009, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Lindsay Lowe | Permalink
Luis Gomez, 45, Queens

CloseLuis Gomez, 45, Queens

“There’s not much money to spend.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/Audio_Luis.mp3|titles=Audio_Luis]

Borough: Queens, Occupation: Teacher, Age: 35-54, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11368, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Kevin Reilly | Permalink
Patrick Langworthy, 28, Queens

ClosePatrick Langworthy, 28, Queens

“Instead of buying everybody gifts individually what we decided to do was do a Secret Santa, so everybody only buys one gift and everybody ends up happy and spends less money.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/Patrick-Langworthy.mp3|titles=Patrick Langworthy]

Borough: Queens, Occupation: Pest control consultant, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11375, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Jesse Leon | Permalink
Richard Delfino, 68, Queens

CloseRichard Delfino, 68, Queens

“A good wife will know when a gift giving time is coming…”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/RichardInterviewFinal1.mp3|titles=Richard Delfino Interview]

Borough: Queens, Occupation: Butcher, Age: 65+, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11414, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by John Smock | Permalink
Marco Quinones, 47, Bronx

CloseMarco Quinones, 47, Bronx

http://vimeo.com/33035300?

“We might have been able to eat rice and beans and steak, but now it’s just rice and beans.”

Borough: Bronx, Occupation: Unemployed (former bricklayer), Age: 35-54, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10457, Health Insurance: No,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Tristan Hallman | Permalink
Nyeisha Myers, 33, Brooklyn

CloseNyeisha Myers, 33, Brooklyn

[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/NyeishaMyersInterviewFINAL1.mp3|titles=NyeishaMyersInterviewFINAL]
“I’m just happy that I have a job, to be out here with the people, to greet them and make a living day by day.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Salvation Army Bell Ringer, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11212, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Colin Weatherby | Permalink
Maria Weitman, 55, Brooklyn

CloseMaria Weitman, 55, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33037011?

“I don’t think people really notice (the cutting back), because you really get more into the spirit of Christmas.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Chef, Age: 55-64, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11201, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Alexander Tucciarone | Permalink
Latoya Kennedy, 23, Bronx

CloseLatoya Kennedy, 23, Bronx

http://vimeo.com/33037401?

“The economy has a affected my holiday plans a little bit. I only work part-time I don’t have a full time job so I’m just working so I can have money to spend on my family and my daughter.”

Borough: Bronx, Occupation: Teacher's assistant, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 10406, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Melissa Noel | Permalink
Emily Garcia, 21, Bronx

CloseEmily Garcia, 21, Bronx

http://vimeo.com/33036763?

“The economy has affected my holiday plans this year not so bad since I’m working but a little bit shaggy, but so far so good for now.”

Borough: Bronx, Occupation: Retail , Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 10456, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Kamana Shrestha | Permalink
Michael Davidson, 45, Manhattan

CloseMichael Davidson, 45, Manhattan

“Due to the economic conditions, and not being able to find work, I’m unable able to spend as much as I would during the holiday on a normal basis.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/Davidson_Michael-audio1.mp3|titles=Davidson_Michael audio]

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: Accountant , Age: 35-54, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10031, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Oulimata Ba | Permalink
Katie Mann, 24, Brooklyn

CloseKatie Mann, 24, Brooklyn

“I’ll be staying here for Christmas and I’ll probably be making my gifts here as opposed to buying them.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/pylayev_mann-final.mp3|titles=pylayev_mann final]

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Retail, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11230, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Mariya Pylayev | Permalink
Geraldo Sean Muniz, 35, Brooklyn

CloseGeraldo Sean Muniz, 35, Brooklyn

“People just seem to be shopping… just on impulse. There needs to be some more personal responsibility.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/INTERACTIVE-SURVEY-PROJECT-REAPER-MUNIZ.mp3|titles=Economic SURVEY PROJECT Geraldo MUNIZ]

Gender: Male

< Back | Interview by Orlando Rodriguez | Permalink
Princella Jarrett, 46, Brooklyn

ClosePrincella Jarrett, 46, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33036911

“Whether you have the money or not, just celebrate.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Nurse technician, Age: 35-54, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11236, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend more this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Jacob Hodes | Permalink
Nick Lancetta, 22, Queens

CloseNick Lancetta, 22, Queens

http://vimeo.com/33036706

“Usually we take a trip, me and my mother that is, to Florida to see our family there but actually this year money is a little short so we’re not going to take a trip to Florida.”

Borough: Queens, Occupation: U.S. Army, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Guia Marie Del Prado | Permalink
Mark Viggiano, 21, Manhattan

CloseMark Viggiano, 21, Manhattan

http://vimeo.com/33035768?

“Previously, when I’ve had a job, I’ve been able to spend more money because I haven’t had any other expenses, until now. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve had to put money elsewhere.”

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: Architect, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10013, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Joe Jenkins | Permalink
Lillian Lee, 66, Brooklyn

CloseLillian Lee, 66, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33035517?

“I don’t plan to buy, perhaps, the adults any gifts in my family — just the kids.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Retired, Age: 65+, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11207, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Chester Soria | Permalink
Jenny Ray, 19, Manhattan

CloseJenny Ray, 19, Manhattan

Jenny – ToilTown by Katie Chow

“As a student, I’m kind of broke anyways. So it’s looking for the best value and the cheapest on everything I can find. I think that’s everybody’s overall sentiment.”

Gender: Female

< Back | Interview by Katie Chow | Permalink
Maria T. Reyes, 80, Bronx

CloseMaria T. Reyes, 80, Bronx

http://vimeo.com/33003722?

“These are the first holidays that I’m going to be by myself because of my health.”

Borough: Bronx, Occupation: Retired, Age: 65+, Gender: Female, Zip code: 10454, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Alex Robinson | Permalink
Mark Brown, 42, Manhattan

CloseMark Brown, 42, Manhattan

[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/Audio.mp3|titles=Audio]
“It’s going to affect a lot of people this year. Not just me and my family – a lot of people. Especially in New York.”

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: Chef, Age: 35-54, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10018, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Jenny Marc | Permalink
Julie Scarola, 27, Brooklyn

CloseJulie Scarola, 27, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33002494?

“Last year I was employed so it didn’t matter, but this year the economy has been hard and I can’t find a job.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Unemployed, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Althea Chang | Permalink
Tiffany Russo, 29, Manhattan

CloseTiffany Russo, 29, Manhattan

“As far as spending goes, I feel like a lot of my gift-buying is from, like, Groupon and Livingsocial and it’s more activities like magazine subscriptions that you get deals on.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/Grover_East-Harlem_Holiday-Spending_1-2.mp3|titles=Grover_East Harlem_Holiday Spending]

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: Teacher, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 10035, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Minty Grover | Permalink
Benny Ehgman, 32, Brooklyn

CloseBenny Ehgman, 32, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33002390?

“Probably won’t do much travelling, because money is so tight. And presents won’t probably be as good this year, or as expensive.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Woodworker, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11206, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Natalia V. Osipova | Permalink
Marlon Manswell, 27, Brooklyn

CloseMarlon Manswell, 27, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33002757?

“I’ve already started spending more, I’m helping the economy. Anybody spending is helping the economy.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Student, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11238, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend more this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Sean Carlson | Permalink
Kristina Milnor, 41, Manhattan

CloseKristina Milnor, 41, Manhattan

http://vimeo.com/33002376?

“I actually think it’s been a good thing that we’re all gonna scale back a little bit this year.”

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: Teacher, Age: 35-54, Gender: Female, Zip code: 10027, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Claudia Bracholdt | Permalink
Lejaila Troi, 19, Brooklyn

CloseLejaila Troi, 19, Brooklyn

[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/Lejaila-Troi1.mp3|titles=Lejaila Troi]
“I feel like since the economy is so bad that I will want to spend less but I feel like I also have the urge to want to give more.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Part Time Student/Part Time Employee on Wall Street, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11201, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Michelle Gross | Permalink
David Santiago Jr., 20, Staten Island

CloseDavid Santiago Jr., 20, Staten Island

“We really didn’t have money for Black Friday, when everything was discounted 70 percent.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/DavidSantiago.mp3|titles=David Santiago]

Borough: Staten Island, Occupation: New York Aquarium employee, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10303, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Rachel Sapin | Permalink
Sarah Stillman, 25, Brooklyn

CloseSarah Stillman, 25, Brooklyn

“[T]here were a ton of layoffs at my firm…so I really feel like I need to watch every penny in case I might be next.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/toiltown-live-audio.mp3|titles=Sarah Stillman]

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Copywriter, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11235, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Emma Thorne | Permalink
Yarissa Soriano, 23, Manhattan

CloseYarissa Soriano, 23, Manhattan

http://vimeo.com/33001499

“Last year, I probably spent about 300 bucks in gifts. This year, one gift will be $300.”

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: Administrative assistant, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 10035, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend more this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Sarah Kazadi | Permalink
Dan Attridge, 23, Manhattan

CloseDan Attridge, 23, Manhattan

“I think I’ll have to go with sentimental presents, maybe more work involved in finding the right gift that won’t break my budget.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/12_12_1_ToilTown.mp3|titles=Dan]

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: Teacher's aide with AmeriCorps, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10027, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Vanesa Vennard | Permalink
Dominique Rambert, 22, Brooklyn

CloseDominique Rambert, 22, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/33001892

“I would love to give my kids a big, big Christmas and buy lots of toys and all that stuff. But I just can’t.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Writer, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11217, Health Insurance: No,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Peter Moskowitz | Permalink
Jamie Kottis, 28, Brooklyn

CloseJamie Kottis, 28, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/32993372

“People are going to get my love this year and maybe a free coke,” said Jamie Kottis.

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Flight attendant, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11237, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Shannon Firth | Permalink
Jamal Wilson, 42, Manhattan

CloseJamal Wilson, 42, Manhattan

http://vimeo.com/32990649

“I’m not I guess like the average American caught up in the materialism of the whole thing.”

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: UPS Employee, Age: 35-54, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10037,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Jane Teeling | Permalink
Nathan Smith, 25, Brooklyn

CloseNathan Smith, 25, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/32990754

“I have a few more people I want to make sure to give some gifts.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Personal trainer, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11221, Health Insurance: No,
Plans to spend more this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by David Sanchirico | Permalink
Desiree Pregnolato, 38, Manhattan

CloseDesiree Pregnolato, 38, Manhattan

http://vimeo.com/32989884

“It’s just better to do something that you love, that you feel passionate about, and maybe make less money.”

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: Oversees operations at men's clothing line, Age: 35-54, Gender: Female, Zip code: 10023, Health Insurance: No,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Taylor Tepper | Permalink
Sunil Radia, 33, Brooklyn

CloseSunil Radia, 33, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/32989964

“For us the biggest impact has been on the price of the ticket to visit our families, which is not local here in New York.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Advertising executive, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 11201, Health Insurance: No,
Plans to spend more this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Jorteh Senah | Permalink
Tamison Doherty, 19, Brooklyn

CloseTamison Doherty, 19, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/32990021

“So this one encapsulating Christmas event, [my mom] is going to switch us to Sprint, which actually costs less money, but she’s going to get us all iPhones.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Student, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11213, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Amanda Woods | Permalink
Miguel Gomez, 24, Manhattan

CloseMiguel Gomez, 24, Manhattan

http://vimeo.com/32990258

– “I can tell you what I don’t want…”

Borough: Manhattan, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Daisy Rosario | Permalink
“D” Mandell, 43, Bronx

Close“D” Mandell, 43, Bronx

http://vimeo.com/32990049

“We don’t even get a Christmas bonus at my job.”

Borough: Bronx, Occupation: Transit worker, Age: 35-54, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10451, Health Insurance: No,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Sarah Pizon | Permalink
Serge Rodriguez, 36, Bronx

CloseSerge Rodriguez, 36, Bronx

http://vimeo.com/32989870

“I’ve been laid off for about two, three months now.”

Borough: Bronx, Occupation: Unemployed, Age: 35-54, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10459,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Kenneth Christensen | Permalink
Joanna Smith Rakoff, 39, Manhattan

CloseJoanna Smith Rakoff, 39, Manhattan

“For us to fly down there would cost thousands of dollars. And we’ve been looking at fares since October.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/rakoff.mp3|titles=rakoff]

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: Author, Age: 35-54, Gender: Female, Zip code: 10022, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Mary Shell | Permalink
Naomi Bonneau, 27, Brooklyn

CloseNaomi Bonneau, 27, Brooklyn

“I’m not a person who wants gifts. As far as material things, that’s done for. It’s not a priority.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/Naomi_Bonneau.mp3|titles=Naomi Bonneau describes how she’s focusing on things that her family needs, not wants.]

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Phlebotomist, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11226, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Julian C. Dunn | Permalink
Claudia Brathwaite, 67, Bronx

CloseClaudia Brathwaite, 67, Bronx

http://vimeo.com/32990920?

“And when you retire … you’re used to getting paid every week and then the checks just come once a month and you’ve got to do everything with it.”

Borough: Bronx, Occupation: Retired dietician, Age: 65+, Gender: Female, Zip code: 10467, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Lindsay Armstrong | Permalink
Laura Iacono, 26, Queens

CloseLaura Iacono, 26, Queens

“This year I actually went shopping on Black Friday. It was disgusting. These two ladies were getting arrested for, like, shoplifting or beating each other up.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/Toiltown-Project.mp3|titles=Toiltown Project]

Borough: Queens, Occupation: Stay at home mother, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11420, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend more this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Kevin Loria | Permalink
Jaci Berwotek, 20, Brooklyn

CloseJaci Berwotek, 20, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/32988154

“I’ve just come up with, like, one gift that I’m going to give to everyone, the same thing, but I’m trying to make it homemade.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Student, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11225, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Lisa Turner | Permalink
Taylor Schon, 30, Manhattan

CloseTaylor Schon, 30, Manhattan

“We don’t really know what tough times are.”
[audio:http://cdn.journalism.cuny.edu/blogs.dir/390/files/2011/12/Taylor3.mp3|titles=Taylor Schon]

Borough: Manhattan, Occupation: Photojournalist, Age: 18-34, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10012, Health Insurance: No,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Paulette Safdieh | Permalink
Onazette Joshua, 19, Bronx

CloseOnazette Joshua, 19, Bronx

http://vimeo.com/32990530

“Usually we help people on Christmas, but now we can’t even do that because we have to help ourselves. So when we had anything left over food-wise, we give it to pantries or whatever. This year, it’s not even happening. It’s sad, actually.”

Borough: Bronx, Occupation: Student, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 10455, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Eli Chen | Permalink
Ray Torres, 53, Bronx

CloseRay Torres, 53, Bronx

http://vimeo.com/32990933

“A lot of work, not enough money, too many bills,… We are oppressed by this so-called government.”

Borough: Bronx, Occupation: Maintenance worker, Age: 35-54, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10454, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Chloe Rouveyrolles | Permalink
Robert Verdugo, 52, Bronx

CloseRobert Verdugo, 52, Bronx

http://vimeo.com/32994404

“There’s no more spirit in New York. ‘Cause I remember back in the 70s, you’d see all the windows filled with Christmas lights. There was holiday spirit.”

Borough: Bronx, Occupation: Retail, Age: 35-54, Gender: Male, Zip code: 10454, Health Insurance: No,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Gwendolyn McClure | Permalink
Cameron Miles, 30, Bronx

CloseCameron Miles, 30, Bronx

http://vimeo.com/32988897

“I’m gonna try to make some stuff this year, just to save a little extra.”

Borough: Bronx, Occupation: Administrative assistant, Age: 18-34, Gender: Female, Zip code: 10470, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Julie Strickland | Permalink
Gladys Silver, 79, Queens

CloseGladys Silver, 79, Queens

http://vimeo.com/32989063

“The economy is affecting me in a way where it may not affect many people, but my husband..we’re in the stock market and he is very concerned.”

Borough: Queens, Occupation: Retired, Age: 65+, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11375, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend same this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Vincent Balestriere | Permalink
Zaire Dinzey, 38, Brooklyn

CloseZaire Dinzey, 38, Brooklyn

http://vimeo.com/32989378?

“Definitely less money, less presents this year… Everything is more expensive, and money doesn’t pay as much as it did before.”

Borough: Brooklyn, Occupation: Academic professor of sociology, Age: 35-54, Gender: Female, Zip code: 11233, Health Insurance: Yes,
Plans to spend less this year compared to previous year.

< Back | Interview by Menglin Huang | Permalink

Reporters from the CUNY Graduate School of Journalism hit city streets, asking residents, “How will the economy affect your holidays plans?”

A majority of those surveyed said they planned to spend less this year than last on presents, holiday celebrations and travel.

Explore an interactive mosaic of multimedia responses, using the filters to slice and dice the results. Add your responses by taking our online survey. And check back soon to view a “word cloud” of your answer to the question, “What would you most like for the holidays?”

Plans to spend:: less (54), more (10), same (19)
Age:: 18-34 (46), 35-54 (25), 55-64 (3), 65+ (9)
Gender:: female (42), male (42)
Borough:: Bronx (12), Brooklyn (37), Manhattan (20), Queens (13), Staten Island (1)
Zip code:: 10009 (1), 10010 (1), 10012 (2), 10013 (1), 10018 (2), 10022 (1), 10023 (2), 10027 (2), 10031 (1), 10034 (1), 10035 (3), 10037 (1), 10128 (1), 10303 (1), 10406 (1), 10451 (2), 10454 (3), 10455 (1), 10456 (1), 10457 (1), 10459 (1), 10467 (1), 10470 (1), 11103 (1), 11201 (5), 11205 (1), 11206 (2), 11207 (1), 11209 (1), 11212 (1), 11213 (1), 11214 (1), 11215 (2), 11216 (3), 11217 (2), 11218 (3), 11219 (1), 11220 (1), 11221 (1), 11225 (1), 11226 (2), 11230 (1), 11233 (1), 11235 (1), 11236 (1), 11237 (1), 11238 (3), 11355 (1), 11358 (1), 11361 (1), 11368 (1), 11375 (2), 11414 (2), 11418 (1), 11420 (1)
Health Insurance:: no (13), yes (62)
: See all posts

NYCity Snapshot: Spending Takes a Holiday

CloseRene Decruz, 29, Brooklyn

CloseDonna Bush, 50, Brooklyn

CloseRyan Griffin, 26, Manhattan

CloseStephanie Coughlan, 29, Brooklyn

CloseJohn Leonard, 59, Brooklyn

CloseAmy Chernoff, 45, Brooklyn

CloseNena Área, 47, Manhattan

CloseRenee Cooley, 65, Brooklyn

CloseNathaniel Gould, 22, Bay Ridge

CloseDavid Harwell, 24, Brooklyn

CloseRoss Tice, 32, Brooklyn

CloseTay Harris, 20, Brooklyn

CloseJoan Barbarito, 70, Queens

CloseChristian Valerio, 23, Queens

CloseMichael Cohen, 67, Manhattan

CloseTom Colina, 57, Queens

CloseNatasha Uria, 27, Brooklyn

CloseEmma Goldman, 25, Manhattan

CloseMatilde Diaz, 71, Queens

CloseCecily Moore, 20, Manhattan

CloseKeith Jones, 45, Manhattan

CloseDigeorgia Biz, 36, Queens

CloseTim Roper, 26, Manhattan

CloseDennis Moore, 47, Brooklyn

CloseAbra Moraweic, 25, Brooklyn

CloseEthan Bull, 33, Brooklyn

CloseVincent Marano, 50, Bronx

CloseBill Power, 40, Brooklyn

CloseErnest Acosta, 47, Brooklyn

CloseRichard Cancel, 59, Manhattan

CloseKesha Young, 37, Brooklyn

CloseAnna Lioliou, 19, Brooklyn

CloseRick Dinaro, 28, Brooklyn

CloseDaniel Herrick, 26, Queens

CloseBilly Rohan, 30, Manhattan

CloseLuis Gomez, 45, Queens

ClosePatrick Langworthy, 28, Queens

CloseRichard Delfino, 68, Queens

CloseMarco Quinones, 47, Bronx

CloseNyeisha Myers, 33, Brooklyn

CloseMaria Weitman, 55, Brooklyn

CloseLatoya Kennedy, 23, Bronx

CloseEmily Garcia, 21, Bronx

CloseMichael Davidson, 45, Manhattan

CloseKatie Mann, 24, Brooklyn

CloseGeraldo Sean Muniz, 35, Brooklyn

ClosePrincella Jarrett, 46, Brooklyn

CloseNick Lancetta, 22, Queens

CloseMark Viggiano, 21, Manhattan

CloseLillian Lee, 66, Brooklyn

CloseJenny Ray, 19, Manhattan

CloseMaria T. Reyes, 80, Bronx

CloseMark Brown, 42, Manhattan

CloseJulie Scarola, 27, Brooklyn

CloseTiffany Russo, 29, Manhattan

CloseBenny Ehgman, 32, Brooklyn

CloseMarlon Manswell, 27, Brooklyn

CloseKristina Milnor, 41, Manhattan

CloseLejaila Troi, 19, Brooklyn

CloseDavid Santiago Jr., 20, Staten Island

CloseSarah Stillman, 25, Brooklyn

CloseYarissa Soriano, 23, Manhattan

CloseDan Attridge, 23, Manhattan

CloseDominique Rambert, 22, Brooklyn

CloseJamie Kottis, 28, Brooklyn

CloseJamal Wilson, 42, Manhattan

CloseNathan Smith, 25, Brooklyn

CloseDesiree Pregnolato, 38, Manhattan

CloseSunil Radia, 33, Brooklyn

CloseTamison Doherty, 19, Brooklyn

CloseMiguel Gomez, 24, Manhattan

Close“D” Mandell, 43, Bronx

CloseSerge Rodriguez, 36, Bronx

CloseJoanna Smith Rakoff, 39, Manhattan

CloseNaomi Bonneau, 27, Brooklyn

CloseClaudia Brathwaite, 67, Bronx

CloseLaura Iacono, 26, Queens

CloseJaci Berwotek, 20, Brooklyn

CloseTaylor Schon, 30, Manhattan