If you want to read a simple, straight-forward article that shows how the international credit crunch is hurting local business, read this article from the Raleigh, NC News & Observer. It discusses why apparently booming and successful Wakefield Commons shopping center might be sold at a fire sale and how that will affect local properties.

Forbes Magazine released its 11th annual survey of best places in the US for Business and Careers. Raleigh was ranked highest for the third year in a row. Durham ranked third. Also ranked were Asheville (6), Wilmington (13), Winston-Salem (18) and Charlotte (19).