It really is a bear market out there. The news this past weekend strengthened people's fear of a recession taking place, when JPMorgan purchased Bear Stearns. What was once considered one of the largest global investment and securities firm in the world, has now sold each share for $2 - a year ago it was $170 a share. There is still a lot of trepidation for further losses related to mortgage investments and people are preparing for any negative effects due to this, especially in job cuts. One great piece from ABCNews provides the five hottest places to find a job in America despite the slowing economy. Texas took 3rd and 5th place with booming job growth in Austin and Fort Worth for teaching, construction, and technology. Atlanta, GA and Wichita, KS also made it to the list for jobs in accounting, aircraft/petroleum, and health care, but Salt Lake City, UT was placed as the #1 hottest place to find a job, with many positions in nursing, education, and banking. It doesn't hurt to be have a backup plan in case there are blows to the economy, especially to those unfortunate ones who might have placed all their eggs in one basket.

*Image courtesy of Jupiterimages