Fuel system issues??

Having issues with the wife's car that i find odd and would like some advice on.

96 Cavalier, 2.2L w/auto tranny. We bought it private party from someone about 4 months ago. Haven't had any problems up until now. Replaced the timing belt when we bought it. Took it to a friends' mechanic because he hooked me up with his "discount" rate. Not sure if he did such a great job cuz the serpentine belt had 2 twists in it when I got the car back. He said he changed the spark plugs, but I haven't actually checked.

Occasionally, the car will not want to start. It's done this about 3 times before on random occasions. Haven't noticed any specific driving conditions preceding the event. If you turn the ignition, the car will just keep trying to crank but wont turn over. If you try hard enough, it will catch but die before you can give it gas. Tried to jump it thinking maybe it could be the battery, but that didn't work. Threw it in neutral to push it to a parking spot (broke down in front of a gas pump of all places) and it got a little speed going so i tried to start it. The engine caught after a try or two and a little gas. I made it down the block to the parts store but didn't have my tools to pull the battery or starter. Wierd thing is that I killed the car to go inside and came back out and it started just fine. Got home, killed it, and started fine again.

Any advice or ideas?

Took it to a friends' mechanic because he hooked me up with his "discount" rate. Not sure if he did such a great job cuz the serpentine belt had 2 twists in it when I got the car back.

You mean the belt wasn't flat? I have never in my life seen anyone do that. As for your issue, try the fuel filter - but DONT TAKE IT TO THAT MECHANIC!