SALEM, OR -- Oregon's current statewide unemployment rate is at a level not seen since May of 2008.  The February numbers show our rate at 5.8%.  State Economist Nick Beleiciks says almost all industries saw job growth.  "In February, leisure and hospitality which is mainly restaurants had a lot of job growth.  And healthcare and social assistance also did a lot of hiring, firms providing services to the elderly."

Nationally consumer spending at restaurants rose sharply in the last year, perhaps partially due to people having more money to spend since gas prices have plunged.