The average American person controls the economy and it all comes down to discretionary income.

I'd characterize the local economy as relatively strong over all. Commercial real estate, the securities industry, and thus personal income and tax revenues, and, to a lesser extent, the labor market are all showing signs of strengthening. The housing market has shown some signs of cooling recently, but remains pretty strong in terms of levels.

We think we can raise our per capita income, build the knowledge base, the economy and get a little more competitive if we can produce more baccalaureate degrees.

There is a willingness in the market to pay for income.

I don't see Ford or General Motors offering below-market cars for low-income families.

We know that if people are confident in their discretionary income and the health of the economy, they tend to worry less about rising travel costs, including gas prices.