Originally published Sunday, May 11, 2008 at 12:00 AM
Market Pulse | Leave a message for Ben ... or Alan
Got some advice for Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke? Just call 202-452-3206. A friendly voice will tell you, "Hello, you have reached...
Got some advice for Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke?
Just call 202-452-3206.
A friendly voice will tell you, "Hello, you have reached the Federal Reserve Board. ... To leave a message for members of the board, including Chairman Ben Bernanke, press two."
But Bernanke fans, be warned. The next prompt instructs, "To leave a recorded comment for Chairman Greenspan or any other members of the board, please record your message after the beep."
Alan Greenspan ended his term as Fed chairman on Jan. 31, 2006.
At presstime, neither chairman had responded to a message left on the machine.
Growing worries
Even millionaires are worried about the economy, according to an annual survey of 1,900 people with net worth of $1 million or more (minus debt and the value of a primary residence).
The survey, by insurer Phoenix Cos., found growing worries about the effects of inflation on nest eggs. The respondents were also more concerned that their wealth wouldn't ensure a "comfortable" retirement. In addition, pessimism about the economy is at its highest level since the survey first addressed the issue in 2001.
Plumped-up Botox
Furrowing your brow over the economy? Allergan says sales of its Botox skin-care treatment, which eases wrinkles and fine lines, jumped 18 percent to $315.5 million in the first quarter, largely due to international growth, suggesting people worldwide are still spending to keep up their looks even as they're paying more for food and fuel. But Jefferies Research analyst Peter Bye notes growth was a bit slower than expected, and rates the stock "hold."
The Associated Press
Copyright © 2008 The Seattle Times Company
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shopping
Give yourself a treat and visit Watson Kennedy's Holiday Open Houses
More minding the store
events for Monday, Nov. 23
- Kimberly Baker Jewelry Launch Party
- Bella Umbrella Holiday Sale
- CraftsGiving
- Beyond Threads Outlet Biannual Clearance Sale
editors' picks
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289 - Climate change speeds up since 1997 Kyoto accord
176 - Vikings easily beat the Seahawks
167 - Palin excitement builds in Tri-Cities
132 - Metro won't cut bus service after all
126 - Historic health care bill clears Senate hurdle
91 - Tattoos at Mill Creek Church pierce skin, soul
72 - Jerry Brewer: Seahawks can't lean on the Hutch Crutch now
66 - UW, WSU once again meet to see who's worse
62 - New Husky recruit: Enes Kanter
55
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