[VRM]

MChat,
I'm seeing a bit of a different reality up my way (New England - North of Boston, right on the New Hampshire border).
A friend of mine works as a sheetmetal worker in NH. 3 months ago his hours were cut to 32 because the work was slowing down. His boss recently told him and the other guys that their hours would be cut to 28. Two of the other guys quit, so his hours are back up to 40, but he only expects that to last for a couple of months.
My wife and I go out most every Friday night. The places we go were usually packed, and if you were not there by 5:30 there would be a wait sometimes as long as an hour. It is not packed these days, and our favourite waitress has told us that they have also cut a few hours. People are just not spending money, and it is hurting pretty much all businesses. And I agree about inflation!

I don't like the idea of taxing businesses either, but the middle class needs the break right now more than the businesses do. If the business has customers their profits will increase even with the Fed taking a % of it. If Obamas plan had the cuts that it has now for the middle class, but did not raise taxes for anybody else I would consider voting for him. McCains tax plan will not get the economy moving again.

Steve