this is what paul krugman, uber liberal columnist for the new york times, wrote in his column titled our so-called boom:

it was a merry Christmas for Sharper Image and Neiman Marcus, which reported big sales increases over last year's holiday season. It was considerably less cheery at Wal-Mart and other low-priced chains. We don't know the final sales figures yet, but it's clear that high-end stores did very well, while stores catering to middle- and low-income families achieved only modest gains.

Based on these reports, you may be tempted to speculate that the economic recovery is an exclusive party, and most people weren't invited. You'd be right. (more)

don't you just love krugman for always being on bush's ass? someone's gotta sweep the floors once in awhile.