At a time when the American economy has softened, that assertion seems more valid now than ever.

Sometimes when the economy softens, competitors reduce ad spending to zero because they are forced out of business.

Others worried that if the economy softens further, additional resources will be wrenched from the parks.

"There are already signs that the economy might be softening," he said.

"With the rise in rates we are likely to see the economy soften, but not until the second half of the year."

When the economy softened in 2000-01, retail overcapacity became a concern.

Analysts also believe that the region's strong economy, particularly its low unemployment, will soften any cuts.

The city already spent $12 billion out of a $40-billion budget and it looks like tax revenues are going to come down as the economy softens.

IF the economy softens, the Federal Government will come under additional pressure from the states to provide more money to help create jobs.

Do you take that as a sign the economy is softening?