This will be my final message on this bulletin board as I have lost my bet with hubris12000. Congratulations hubris! You win. I lose. I will honor the terms of our bet.

The learning from this bet is to never underestimate the manic/depressive nature of Mr. Market. Whole Foods had a very strong quarter with same store sales up 9.9% on top of a 15.2% increase last year--phenomenal results. In addition EPS were up 27% over last year and the company beat earnings estimates by 3 cents. However, Mr. Market hit the panic button and the stock has crashed, down almost 40% from its high of just a few months ago. Whole Foods itself has a very bright future and I will continue to hold my stock for a very long time--until the growth begins to significantly slow.

I've enjoyed my 8 years on this Board, but all things must come to an end. I wish everyone the very best. Hog152--keep the faith. liberfar--good luck with your market timing game. hubris12000--take your profits while you can, Whole Foods remains very strong and the stock will show continued strong growth over the long-term. Surgeon General and Boston Cowboy--you were both right about my true identity all along. Congratulations on your cleverness.

Take care everyone. Goodbye.