With time running out to broker a deal, the cuts looks likely to go into effect on March 1.

NPR: Wall Street Holds Its Nerve As Spending Cuts Near

Ian Puddick, used Twitter and other social networking groups as well as setting up a string of dedicated websites to shame Timothy Haynes, a City insurance broker, after finding out about the long-running relationship.

FORBES: Harassment by Twitter and Blog

"Most businesses are running scared, " says Greg Winquist, a real-estate broker and Republican from Ormond Beach.

WSJ: Swing Nation: Across America, the Political Middle Looks Up for Grabs��Again

Ms. Sherman, a real-estate broker, said she hadn't known Mr. Richard was running the marathon, but when she saw the family wasn't home Monday evening, she assumed the family had gone into Boston to see the race.

WSJ: In Boston Neighborhood, Shock at Death of 8-Year-Old