I don't think it's all that attractive. It's a very seasonal place that is lively when the weather is warm enough to enjoy the scenery, but for a good part of the year it's pretty cold and pretty desolate.

When it comes time to do business there it will be done in the summer. Only a few businesses will be successful in a situation like that, and that's why it's mostly bars up in Charlotte. ... I don't know why we can't accept Charlotte as a summer place. It's a great summer place.

That's what they're up against ? the security and predictability of a chain.

Obviously, it's frustrating when you get weather like this. And the (weather) forecast is not good for the next two days, so I think it will be a drawn match.

North Atlantic oscillation is an indicator, and it's been fairly accurate during the last few years for predicting winter weather over the northeastern U.S.. It's a pretty complicated thing. We look at data buoys and other information-gathering devices. It gets pretty technical.

It looks really good despite all the adverse weather conditions.