>Also, just by including VFP in both releases of Visual Studio is proof to me that Microsoft is aware of how many of us are out here putting it to use everyday.

That's the biggest reason for optimism yet. To take VFP out of VS now would do more than let it die a slow death (which is what many VFP developers fear MS is doing). It would be the kiss of death. So I think MS has committed, here.

VS buyers who normally use VB or VC++ for database apps will see VFP in there. VC++ users will say "Woah, I didn't know it could be this easy!" VB users will say "Woah, this 'inheritance' stuff is pretty cool!" :)