Highlights from the Fed's latest economic survey

WASHINGTON — Highlights from the Federal Reserve's survey of economic conditions nationwide. The survey, released Wednesday and known as the Beige Book, is based on information collected from the Fed's 12 regional bank districts.BOSTON(This region covers Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and part of Connecticut.)Economy flashed signs of improvement. Some companies are beginning to hire or reverse wage cuts or freezes. Retailers reported mixed results as shoppers are somewhat cautious. In manufacturing, biopharmaceutical companies said revenues increased, and some equipment makers said sales picked up from depressed levels. Some businesses wondered whether recent economic improvements will last, although most expect the recovery to become more rooted in 2010.NEW YORK(This region covers New York and parts of Connecticut and New Jersey.)Further signs of economic improvements were reported. Retail sales grew. Auto dealers said sales rebounded briskly in recent weeks after a brief drop-off once the government's Cash for Clunkers program ended. Tourism in New York City picked up. Manhattan hotels' occupancy rates beat last year's levels. Broadway theaters reported a "pronounced pickup" in attendance as well as revenue. Manufacturers reported steady to increasing production, and improvements in general business conditions. Commercial real estate markets — both office and industrial — have been steady to moderately weaker. Housing market was mixed, although the high end of the market was weaker. Bankers reported rising delinquency rates on both home mortgage and commercial loans.PHILADELPHIA(This region covers Delaware and parts of Pennsylvania and New Jersey.)Economic conditions were mixed. Manufacturers reported an increase in shipments and a "steady rate" of new orders. Demand grew for food products, clothing, furniture, chemicals and electrical equipment, but fell for makers of wood, metal and industrial products. Retailers said shoppers appeared more willing to spend, a

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