Aluminum maker, Alcoa, says it will reduce production even more. Alcoa has already been shutting down operations world wide. They blame the low price of aluminum. Reduced production equals more layoffs.
In Rhode Island, Westerly Hospital eliminated 45 jobs. It’s being blamed on the takeover by Lawrence + Memorial Hospital.
Schumacher Group shutting down its Patient Financial Management Services in Louisiana. 41 people laid off. Blame Obama/Romney Care (Affordable Care Act).
In California, the not for profit doctor and hospital network known as Sutter Health announced 169 people losing their jobs! There was no reason given, but apparently the network is consolidating 1000 jobs, so expect more layoffs. The Paradise Unified School District wants to get rid of at least six jobs. It all depends on Title 1 federal funds. In Atascadero, Colby Jack Café & Bakery closed down. The owners blame the bad economy: “We tried to make it work and couldn’t. We haven’t seen the economy get better.”-Natalie Dorris
The proposed budget for the city of Portland, Oregon, plans 182 layoffs, and increases the water/sewer rates!
Electronics/communications company Harris Corporation wants to layoff 150 people in Brevard County, Florida! Company officials say they have to cut operating costs.
In North Carolina, Too Big to Jail Bank of America closed down its employee child care center in Charlotte. In High Point, Tar Heel Lanes bowling alley closed after 42 years of business. The owners were not able to get new loans, so now the bowling alley is up for sale. After 37 years Gaston County’s John Deere dealership, Briley’s Lawn and Leisure, closed down. Blamed on death in the family.
Ecolab laying off 500 people across the U.S., mainly in Texas! It’s blamed on restructuring after the takeover of a company called Champion Technologies.
In Maryland, Aramark laying off 202 people! The dining service company lost a major contract. In Bethesda, Zen Tara Tea shop shut down. The owners blamed loss of business on major construction projects in the area. In College Park, On Cloud 9 clothing store closed up. Blamed on death in the family. In Ellicott City, Mumbles and Squeaks toy store closed. After 21 years the owners decided it was time to retire.
What automotive sector recovery? In Indiana, Jay Products Company of Portland ceased operations. 61 people out-o-work. The car parts maker blamed it on a reduction in production in the automotive industry.
In Missouri, the Affton Blockbuster video store closed down.
Update on ESCO Technologies closing its Aclara plant in Solon, Ohio. At least 79 employees being laid off.
The U.S. Department of Labor (DoL) doesn’t count the hundreds of layoffs involving less than 50 people each, in its mass layoff reports. It also doesn’t count all the little ‘mom & pop’ businesses that shut down.