Perhaps the biggest national story right now is the ailing economy. Fueled by the sub-prime mortgage fiasco, the housing market has taken a serious hit. Homeowners are watching their homes fall into foreclosure, and businesses tied to the industry are in deep trouble, leaving the federal government scrambling for solutions. Drops in the interest rates, government-issued checks for taxpayers designed to boost consumer spending and confidence have yet to turn the economic tide.

What does all this mean for Hawaii? What can local consumers expect?

Joining us Tuesday on the Hot Seat will be Paul Brewbaker, chief economist and senior vice president for Bank of Hawaii. Paul is often tapped by the media for his insight into our economy, and now it's your turn. He'll take your questions on the economy live Tuesday from noon to 1 p.m.

To join the conversation, watch for the NEW posting that will go up at noon Tuesday opening the chat, and post your questions there.

If you can't make the live session, you can send your questions in advance to me at jmbelding@honoluluadvertiser.com and I'll try to post them for you in between the live postings, as time permits.

See you Tuesday, with economist Paul Brewbaker.