Yep. And we're writing about it. Story after story.

But what does it all mean? That's what everybody wants to know.

I don't believe the analysts have any clearer picture than the fellow who called early this morning and asked, "How's the stock market doing?"

I pulled up Yahoo! Finance. "Just 350 down," I said. "Just 350?" he aked. The conversation ended quickly after that, but it indicates people's concern. Will I be OK? Will my investments survive? Will the value of my home drop even more? Will I have a job?

As I write this, the market has jumped back in positive territory.

Alll this talk of recession and panic has a bonus: There's been interest shown in the stock market and financial matters by people who never would have cared before. And millions more who understand the ramifications of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, the value of good credit and the power of a flush consumer is a good thing.

Expect a number of pocketbook stories from The Bee's business writing staff in the weeks to come. We'll try to put it in consumer-friendly perspective.

-- Photo by The Associated Press