I really hate to read news like this. I lost my corporate job of 25 years in Nov. 2005. After several months of pounding the pavement I went into business for myself. I concentrate on Franchise Consultation, equipment funding and accounting. I've seen no evidence of the economy recovering either. I can't get funding for my small business clients. My free franchise search advise doesn't do much good if the client is afraid to spend any of their savings and the accounting I do for small business shows continuing decline in income. But I'm here to help in the decision making process....look for work or start my own business?