Oh, I forgot to mention the third part of the puzzle - politics. When it becomes politically impossible to operate a business profitably the business moves to where the politics are more favorable. This is how a "free" market works. While its sometimes depressing to think about the politics and politicians are who WE THE PEOPLE put in place. Don't like what's happening? Become an activist for YOUR cause and/or run for office. No, its not easy - and it takes a long time - but THATS HOW OUR SYSTEM WORKS. Rotten system? Sure - except for all the other rotten political systems out there. Of course, the easiest thing to do is pontificate about it on internet forums.............