We don’t need the news to know the economy is the No. 1 thing on everyone’s minds. We all know someone who has been laid off. We all have seen foreclosure signs in our neighborhoods. We all have cut back on spending, putting off that family vacation or purchase of something we want, but don’t need. And we all know that things are likely to get worse before they get better. Virginians are worried, but also hopeful and resolved to weather this economic storm.

As Gov. Timothy M. Kaine seeks to double the state’s tax on cigarettes to get more money for health care, state statistics show that cigarette sales declined after the previous two rounds of tax increases. State tax officials note that other factors, including anti-smoking campaigns and societal changes in smoking habits, also may have contributed to the decline.