The ongoing decrease in the number of people smoking in California is a major public health achievement. With California adults smoking 25 percent less than the rest of the nation, our state continues to benefit from lower rates of tobacco-related illnesses.

The ongoing dot.com market correction is far from having a negative effect on online retailing as a whole. It has actually led online retailers to renew their focus on customer service, cost reduction and profitability.

The only clear picture we have from the job cut numbers this year is that employers appear to be confused about the direction this economy is taking, ... Companies are experiencing increased business, but they are also seeing their costs soar due to higher fuel prices, inflation in supplier prices and a weaker dollar, which makes it more expensive to buy foreign parts.

The only effect it could have is burning out our donors. I don't think that's going to happen. The people who donate to the state candidate fund are different than those who donate for anything else.

The only real debate for UK rates now is timing and whether the MPC will pre-empt market expectations for a February cut with an earlier move.