Washington Post reporter seeking quick help on story

[Anonymous]

Hello,

I am part of a group of reporters examining how recent events on Wall Street are affecting local residents. I specifically am looking at parents of college-bound high schoolers and the parents of kids in college. I'd like to know your thoughts on the safety/security of college nest eggs/529 funds/general mutual funds. I suspect some parents hold the same anxieties of those with 401K plans.

Some things I would like to discuss: Do you follow specific events, like today's moves by the Treasury Department that helped spike the Dow more than 400 points? Do you try not to dwell on specific events, and keep a longer-term view? How much have your college funds gone up or down?

And I'd like to know about the next level, as well: Has anything on Wall Street, or with your college funds, caused you to re-examine plans? Are any of your kids considering delaying college by a year, and working? Have you had to consider less expense college options? Have you had to be more aggressive seeking financial aide? Conversely, have your funds and investments been set up in a way to avoid such worries?

For these stories, we need people willing to let us into their financial lives a little bit, which understand is a lot to ask. I’ll aim to be as fair as I can. I'd also appreciate you forwarding this message to any and all friends who might help.

We’re trying to move quickly on these stories, so if any one wants to talk today, I can be reached at [e-mail] or 301-738-1583. Many thanks.