Sam joins Jim to talk about the February survey of business conditions that Tatum Partners conducts. The news was good in that the economy, according to the survey respondents, is still strong, but there does seem to be some diminishing of confidence. They also talk about the impact of inflation on the responses to the survey.

Burt is the resident historian in the brain trust and he joins Jim on Presidents Day to talk about the uniqueness of the American presidency and how it has developed since the beginning of America including some of the key holders of this office.

Stephanie joins Jim to discuss the current budget and Pres. Bush as well as the reorganization of the appropriations committee. She also talks about the importance of small business and communities improving their communications with members of the elected representatives.

In his monthly report, Sam delivers the results of the latest Tatum survey, which indicates that the economy, while softening as compared to 2004, is building into what should be a solid 2005 economy.

Gov. Gilmore discusses with Jim his opinion of key elements of President Bush’s State of the Union speech. He also talks of homeland security opportunities for small businesses and whether America is safer today than before 9/11.

James and Jim talk about tort reform and national legislation that might be passed since President Bush was re-elected. James also talks about the 9-11 victims fund and what that has to do with tort reform.

Jim and John start their conversation by analyzing president Bush's inauguration speech. They talk about the different views on the language he used. John and Jim also discuss policies regarding Iraq and the upcoming elections there.

Pete joins Jim to share his analysis of 2004 and how the events of last year will effect 2005. They talk about events in Eastern Europe concerning free market and the basis of democracy.

Bill and Jim talk about the condition of the economy according to small business owners.

Jim and Michael talk about privatizing social security and why the current social security system is not working.