Kahuna, you are so right. We are indeed insulated here and have very little idea as to what is happening to others. I recently visited Southern New Jersey which is close to Philadelphia, PA. Many of the companies in Phila have shut down causing a rippling effect on the local economy as there are no new jobs there for those who have lost theirs. Therefore, there is no unnecessary spending which, in turn, affects the retail businesses. The housing market is still terrible with the average house selling in more than 10 months! The hospital ER's are caring for more and more uninsureds as health insurance is gone due to the job loss. Even the Atlantic City casinos are hiring fewer and fewer full time employees with benefits. Many of those who were full time have had their hours cut so that they are now part time with no benefits. Something positive has to happen soon or these people will be lost forever.