We've seen things go downhill, mostly smaller stores are closing. Somehow the big box stores are taking over but I don't know how they're making it as they always seem empty when we go. Some people have lost their homes, some have moved away and others are about the same. I think it depends on where one is working, some places don't seem to be affected while so many others have closed shop. Lots of layoffs, employers are cutting back, I think mostly due to the box stores moving in. I don't see signs of the economy picking up around here, I feel sorry for the families that just bought new homes and have young children to support. Unemployment has gone up quite a bit. Easy to pick up a new house at a good price right now but I guess it evens out as you get less for yours than a few years ago.