Portland, Oregon. The secret to a healthy economy.

Just read an article about why Portland's economy works. This was not the crux of the argument, but it was deemed helpful that some of Portland's hip basics have become staples for the rest of the country as well. Companies that micro-brew, for instance, have seen a rise in profits. Another industry which experienced a growth in popularity was "artisanal whatnot."
And I think they hit the nail on the head.