Just trying to post some positive news in the world of economics. I'm surprised no one has posted this stuff yet. This may end up getting political, I couldn't tell whether or not I should post it over there. Check out the following articles. If we're in a recession I sure can't see it.

Economy grows 0.6%
It's not much but according to the article it's been steady through the end of '07 to the first quarter of '08 and does not fit the definition of a recession. (ie. loss)

Jobless rate falls
I don't get this one. They keep talking about the 20,000 job cuts but say that overall the unemployment rate fell by 0.1%, basically more people found work than were fired. Oh, that's right, the fear monger thing. How silly of me.

Dollar gains against the Euro
Several small gains recently has prompted futures traders to bet on the dollar. There is another article showing that the Euro has fallen to a five week low against the dollar and British pound.

For all you caffeine junkies. Starbucks plans on opening fewer stores due to losses. However, the important factor here is that a $6 a cup coffee place is still doing well enough to open 400 new stores. That's good news for people in the construction industry. Also, they still expect revenues to increase 13 - 14% over '07. Not bad for a recession.

I'm an optimist.

Carlos