Sunday, August 2, 2009

Recession Taxi offers flexible fares

The recession has inspired some Vermonters to generate income in rather unconventional ways. For example, a man in Essex has started a service called Recession Ride Taxi. Eric Hagen doesn't have a meter ticking away or even a price list. What he does have is a sign on the back of his cab reading, "Pay What You Want!" He means it. Hagan tells his fares to pay what they can and gives a free ride after six paid fares. The service operates Thursday through Sundays and Hagan says no one has underpaid. Most people pay with cash, others use the time honored barter system paying with store gift cards, CDs and food. Just another part of the new recession-style economy.