The one thing we always see our students walk away with is confidence and a sense of self. We want our students to not be afraid to be themselves, but at the same time, to respect others and respect life.

The one thing we've stressed is how far confidence can take you. That will be pivotal going into next week at the state championships, if they want a shot at a state title. I think they can do it.

The playing conditions were not great at all, but that is not an excuse for the six errors, four hits, and 12 strikeouts. Right now, we are in a little bit of slump. Several of the girls have lost their confidence and we have to do something to help them get it back.

The point is that mounting layoffs and weak consumer confidence will keep consumer spending fairly weak.

The performance has given us the confidence to both pay the dividend and, more importantly, to continue the high level of investment in the business,