And Bush took an even bolder step toward shoring up his centrist credibility Tuesday by wooing that new beacon of centrism -- John McCain.

CNN: Bush takes a page from Clinton-Gore playbook

Also new on the British scene are charities like the Beacon Fellowship and New Philanthropy Capital, which specialise in helping the wealthy give their money away.

ECONOMIST: Generosity seems to be on the rise

Historically new businesses were the beacon of hope and renewal for the U.S. economy.

FORBES: The Great Startup Slowdown