Tag Archives: education

Business/Economics

U.S. Job Losses & Store Closings, 04 September 2014: “This is the first phase, there could potentially be additional phases.” Secret Obamacare rule changes kill 340 jobs! Is hope lost for one food bank? No more chocolate? Cabinet & countertop maker calls in the fuzz before firing employees!

Incomplete list of publicly announced layoffs & shutdowns:

California: In San Diego, The Active Network warned it will layoff 47 people in November.  In Sunnyvale, subsidiary of taxsucking Boeing, Narus, warned it will kill 17 jobs in November.

Colorado: In Wheat Ridge, after 26 years Gold’s Corner Grocery store shutdown.

Connecticut: In Bridgeport, British empire Scotland (RBS) owned Too Big to Jail Citizens Financial Group killing 126 jobs by the end of October!  Operator of homes for mentally and physically disabled people, REM Connecticut, announced they’re shutting down 32 homes by Xmas 2014, 340 jobs lost!  The pissed-off administrators directly blamed secret rule changes in Obama Care: “We have recently learned of several changes that negatively impact our level of reimbursement and as a result we’ve made the tough decision that we can no longer continue to provide the level of service that we believe is in the best interest of our clients.”-Paul Catalodo, executive director

Florida: In Miami-Dade County, Too Big to Jail JPMorgan Chase Bank shutting down an office.  Bank administrators say they must consolidate operations.  In Tampa, One Call Care Management announced they are shutting down their call center between October 2014 and summer of 2015, at least 99 jobs lost.   Wounded Warriors considering moving its HQ to a new county, meaning at least 500 jobs will be lost in Duval County!  Rival Saint Johns County is offering the greedy supposedly non-profit veterans organization a huge taxpayer funded grant (half a million U.S. dollars!) to leave Duval County.

Indiana: Electronics company Samtec announced they are consolidating operations, no indication how many people will become unemployed.

Iowa: After 83 years (surviving the Great Depression and numerous recessions) Camp Fire Camp Hitaga shutdown, destitute and broke.  It’s blamed on raptured (disappearing) campers; at one time the camp had 200 campers per week, but in the past two years the camp was lucky to see 150 campers for the entire summer!

Kansas: Elitist Homestead Country Club now chapter 11 bankrupt busted, in an attempt to stop foreclosure.

Mississippi: The state Department of Education laid off 30 employees without notice, including the boss of the Office of School Improvement.  Mississippi DoE spokewoman Patrice Guilfoyle said “This is the first phase, there could potentially be additional phases.”

New Mexico:  In Clovis, after 46 years family owned grocery store Stansell’s Thriftway shutdown.

Ohio: Drugs maker Ricerca Biosciences is up for sale and if nobody buys, then at least 200 people will become unemployed!  Job culling will begin in October, it’s blamed on crashing sales.

Oklahoma: In Tulsa, after 11 years LaDonna’s Fancy Foods store shutdown.

Pennsylvania:  In Hazleton, Archer Daniels Midland killed 90 chocolate maker jobs after being taken over by evil food processor Cargill.  Local news reports say the remaining 118 Umpa Lumpas are in limbo as Cargill has made no announcement about what they’re going to do with their newly acquired chocolate factory.  Cargill administrators say they are in the middle of a $440-million deal involving taking over food factories around the World.  Their plan is to consolidate operations, which means massive layoffs, possibly in the thousands.

South Carolina: In Columbia, hope is lost for the Harvest Hope Food Bank.  They have to layoff ten employees, and reduce hours for the other 78.  The operators of the po-folks food non-profit claim it’s not because of decreased donations, rather demand for food has skyrocketed, and they had some equipment breakdown which must be repaired.

Texas: What housing market recovery?  In Dallas, Riverstone Residential Group announced they will kill 101 jobs by the end of October!  It’s blamed on the loss of an apartment management contract.   Temple based maker of kitchen cabinets and countertops Wilsonart Laminates laid off 43 employees, without notice: “On my way leaving, they stopped me, and told me that we needed to have a meeting, and they terminated me when we had the meeting.”-unnamed employee interviewed by local TV news

Employees were told about their unemployment as they were leaving work.  Local news reports said the gut-less company administrators actually called in police for protection on the day they fired their workers!  The company is restructuring their operations to meet  crashing demand.  The unAmerican Wilsonart is one of many corporations that have off-shored jobs to China.

Virginia: In Fredericksburg, non-profit Mary Washington Healthcare laid off 66 healthcare workers without notice: “This came as a complete shock! Everyone had their mouths open!”-hospital employee who refused to be named by local news media

(obviously healthcare workers haven’t been reading my job losses reports, or they would be well aware of the Obama Care job destruction)

Hospital administrators said they’re also cutting pay for 46 other employees.  157 employees will be transfered elsewhere!  Non-profit Mary Washington Healthcare has lost $31-million since the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (Obama Care).

Washington: Denmark based drugs pusher Novo Nordisk announced they’re shutting down their Seattle inflammation research center by November, killing 63 jobs.   In Bellevue, JCPenney announced they will shutdown their 55 years old store by November.

01-03 September 2014

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 shutdown. It doesn’t count people who get a severance for being laid off.

“Our ideals and principles, as well as our national security…That’s what makes America different. That’s what makes us exceptional.”-Barack Obama, 10 September 2013

Business/Economics, Idaho

U.S. Food Crisis, June 2014: “When all you can see is the negatives….it’s time to bail out!” It’s only getting worse!

Incomplete list of announced United States food supply shutdowns for the month of June, 2014: Many food suppliers/distributors are consolidating operations and killing jobs due to the collapsing grocery store and restaurant industries, as well as rising costs of food production.

Alaska: The Kake Gunnuk Creek hatchery shutdown.

Arizona: In Tempe, after almost 20 years Big Fish Pub shutdown. Local news reports say it is the result of years of disputes between the Pub owners and the property owners. The Pub owners stated in a long letter to their customers that the property owners finally jacked up the rent so high, it was impossible to pay.    It’s been revealed that Nellis Management will be shutting down Long John Silver’s restaurants in Arizona.   California based Mimi’s Cafe shutdown.

California: Despite being a major agricultural center, El Centro has the second highest rate of unemployment in the U.S., at 21.1%!  In Modesto, cereal maker Post announced they’re shutting down in September, 58 jobs lost.  In Oakland, Dobake Bakeries announced they will shutdown in August, 221 jobs lost! In Los Angeles, Wolfgang Puck announced it will kill 76 jobs in July.  In Palo Alto, a California Pizza Kitchen announced it will shutdown in August, 52 jobs lost.  In Beverly Hills, after 27 years the upscale snooty Kate Mantilini restaurant shutdown.  In Costa Mesa, S.B. Restaurant revealed they have already shutdown 16 Elephant Bar Global Grill/Wok Kitchen restaurants across the country. The company is bankrupt and hopes somebody can buyout the rest of the restaurants soon, or they’ll all be shutdown.  In Lake Forest, dairy flavorings provider Kerry Flavor Systems revealed they will shutdown in September, 85 jobs lost. It might be connected to Kerry’s takeover of Wynnstar Flavors.   In Laguna Niguel, Kroger owned Ralph’s grocery store shutting down in July. In Newport Beach, after ten years successful Z Pizza shutdown by the landlord. The property owner refused to renew the lease. In Irvine, Red Brick Pizza forced to shutdown by the same property owners that shutdown Z Pizza. A Denny’s restaurant is being shutdown because the property owner (apparently the same one who shutdown the two pizza joints) refuses to renew the lease.

Florida: After 28 years, Grandy’s restaurant announced they’re shutting down in August.   In Broward County the company that runs the local Five Guys burger joints, ASCI Broward, is now chapter 11 bankrupt busted, 120 jobs threatened! It’s blamed on a lawsuit filed by investors.  In Orlando and Fort Myers, The Elephant Bar Global Grill shutdown (see California).  In Sarasota, upscale golf themed Sam Snead’s American Grill shutting down. Employees were given two weeks notice, but were also “ordered” not to talk to the news media.   Emilio and Gloria Estefan’s Bongos Cuban Cafe shutdown. They could not renew the lease.

Georgia: After 27 years upscale snooty elitist Vinings Club restaurant shutdown. The shutdown was revealed by one of the 871 exclusive members. 40 jobs lost, it’s being blamed on financial reasons which forced the sale of the restaurant.

Hawaii: In Kauai, after 98 years the Kojima grocery store shutdown. The family owners blamed decreasing sales and increasing costs of operations.  In Maui, after 47 years Buzz’s Wharf restaurant shutdown. The owner blamed the bad economy.

Idaho: In Twin Falls, after only two years of production at the World’s largest yogurt factory Chobani laid off an undisclosed number of employees. Officials say the layoffs are because production quotas were reached (in other words the former employees did their jobs well)! But wait, more layoffs could be in the planning! Chobani officials told local news media that the factory was still using hundreds more employees than they really need. The new factory was designed for 400 employees, but state employment officials estimate there are between 500 and 1-thousand people working the successful operation.

Illinois: In Galesburg, the Long John Silver’s fast fish food joint shutdown without notice, 10 jobs lost. Employees were officially notified the same morning that the restaurant was shutdown. The franchise owner, Nellis Management, said the store was losing money big time. Nellis Management also said sales at their other 31 Long John Silver’s (across four states) began crashing in 2013, and they plan on shutting more stores down as a result.  In Northbrook, Swizterland based Nestle’s shutdown their DiGiorno pizza and Jack’s Frozen Pies factory, 66 jobs lost. They are consolidating operations.  In Quincy, after 134 years (surviving dozens of recessions and the Great Depression) farm supply store Geo. Keller & Sons shutdown, 21 jobs lost. Family owners said their sales have been crashing for too many years in a row.  In Alton, after 37 years White’s Greenhouse and Seasons Garden Center shutdown. In Lakeview, after ten years the Pie Hole Pizza Joint shutdown. The owner blames it on a combination of the purchase of faulty kitchen equipment and the crashing economy: “The last two years have just been really hard.”-Doug Brandt

Iowa: Another Long John Silver’s franchise going down, this time in The Hawkeye State. After 42 years Nellis Management announced they are shutting down at least eight of their Iowa stores (as well as their Illinois stores, reported in a prior Job Losses report). As in Illinois, news reports said Iowa employees were given no notice. Nellis Management claims they’ve suffered as much as 50% drop in sales! They blame a scientific report which dubbed Long John Silver’s the “worst restaurant” in the U.S.

Kansas: In Kansas City, after 58 years Lipari Brothers Thriftway grocery store shutdown. They blame competition from bigger grocery stores.   In Leawood, a Hy-Vee grocery store shutdown, however the pharmacy is still open. Company officials wanted to remodel the store but blame city officials for playing games with permits and/or zoning laws.

Louisiana: After 55 years the Piccadilly Cafeteria in the Westmoreland Village Shopping Center shutdown. Does it have something to do with the new Catholic owners of the shopping center, or the new New York based owners of the Piccadilly chain?  In New Orleans, gelato shop La Divina Gelateria shutdown. The owners say they are focusing on wholesale ops only.

Maryland: In Baltimore two restaurants, California based Pabu and Lamill, shutdown.

Massachusetts: In Springfield, after 79 years (and surviving the Great Depression) The Student Prince Café & Fort Dining Room shutdown. It was sold off.   In Easton, after 60 years McMenamy’s Hamburger House shutdown. The building was sold. In Haverhill, Archie’s Little River Ale House shutdown.  In Woburn, Kraft Foods announced they are shutting down a 95 years old food factory in 2016, at least 200 jobs will be lost! Company officials say it’s the only way they can remain “competitive” in the global market.

Michigan: At the Detroit Metro Airport a contract with Chili’s Too, Jose Cuervo Tequileria, Home Team Sports and Starbucks Fountain was ended. If a new contract is not signed 135 jobs will be lost in August!

Minnesota: There are reports that the international food giant General Mills has a secret cost cutting (job killing?) plan in the works, due to crashing sales.  After more than 25 years Campus Pizza & Pasta now chapter 11 bankrupt busted.  In Minneapolis, after 32 years Falafel King shutdown. The owner sold off the building because he was “tired” of playing the landlord game.  Sky Ventures warning it will shutdown six Pizza Huts in June, if there are no buyers. Sky Ventures is bankrupt, the franchise company has already sold off 54 Pizza Huts.

Mississippi: According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture 20.9% of Mississippians are unable to buy enough food.

Missouri: In Saint Louis, after 12 years Lemmons Bar & Club shutdown, the owner Mike Gross explained that “When all you can see is the negatives and you can’t see the positives, it’s a good indication that it’s time to bail out!”   In Clayton, Brazikat restaurant shutdown. The owner blames bad reviews, however, it turns out the owner is being sued for breach of contract. In Richmond Heights-Saint Louis, after 18 years the troubled Harvest Restaurant shutdown. The owner blamed competition, however, the restaurant had routinely changed ownership for some reason.  In Saint Louis, food processor ConAgra killing 130 jobs! It’s blamed on its takeover of Ralcorp.  In Kansas City, after only four years Pandolfi’s Deli shutdown.

Nebraska: In Omaha, food processor ConAgra killing 100 jobs! It’s blamed on its takeover of Ralcorp.

Nevada: In Las Vegas, after only four years the West Sahara Firefly Tapas and Kitchen Bar shutdown.  In Sparks, after 18 years Scolari’s Food & Drug shutdown, 50 jobs lost. Company officials say the shutdown is meant to “keep the company….viable”.

New Mexico: In Santa Fe, Bumble Bee’s Baja Grill shutdown.  In Albuquerque, Maloney’s Tavern shutdown, 25 jobs lost. Apparently the property owner wants to sell off the building.

New York: In New Hyde Park, the Stop & Shop Supermarket announced they’re shutting down in September, 162 jobs lost!  Stop & Shop Supermarkets also warned they’re shutting down their Mount Vernon warehouse ops, 239 jobs lost! Also in Mount Vernon, grocery delivery company Peapod killing 239 jobs in September, because they’re moving to New Jersey!  In NYC, Rouge Tomate restaurant announced it will shutdown in August, 105 jobs lost!  In Corning, World Kitchen warned of mass layoffs at its Pressware dinnerware factory. The Pressware factory started in 1938 making Pyrex, there are reports that this last U.S. owned dinnerware company is being sold off. In Rome, after 33 years B&L Italian Bakery shutdown.   In Brooklyn, prepared meals provider Blue Apron laying off 82 people in September. Company officials announced they’re moving to New Jersey.  In Yonkers, after only two years Brio Tuscan Grille announced they will shutdown in August, 78 jobs lost. Restaurant officials blame the suck-ass economy.

North Carolina:  In Charlotte, after 15 years Miro Spanish Grille shutting down in July. The property owner refused to renew the restaurant’s lease.

North Dakota: What oil boom? In Fargo, after 34 years Happy Joe’s Pizza and Ice Cream shutdown. The owner blamed health problems and the bad economy saying his business was no longer “cutting it”.

Ohio: Food processor ConAgra killing 170 jobs! The company is shutting down two popcorn factories. It’s blamed on its takeover of Ralcorp.

Oregon: In Forest Grove, Izgara Middle Eastern Cuisine shutdown. The Jewish owners said they’ve already bought their airline tickets to Florida.

South Dakota: It’s been revealed that Nellis Management will be shutting down Long John Silver’s restaurants.

Tennessee: In Chattanooga, Farley’s & Sathers candy factory laid off 95 Umpa Lumpas, I mean employees. The Chicago based owners (Ferrara Candy) are moving production to candy factories in Illinois. News reports say that over the past five years Ferrara Candy has killed 200 jobs at their Farley’s & Sathers candy factory!  In Oak Ridge, the Food Lion grocery store shutdown, 40 jobs lost.

Texas: Near Dallas, a six years old Jakes Hamburgers shutdown. The owners blame the location, and claim most of the employees were moved to other Jakes locations.  7-Eleven selling off 78 convenience stores across the U.S. It’s part of the Texas based company’s new “business model”.   In Houston, one of three upscale Brio Tuscan Grille restaurants shutdown without notice. The Saint Genevieve bar was shutdown without notice. They’re reports that many eateries are being shutdown for property re-development.  In Austin, Paggi House restaurant shutdown, the owner blames “progress”.  Garrido’s restaurant shutdown, the owner wants to try something new.

Virginia: In Stauton, after 77 years Jimmy Anderson’s Food Mart shutdown.

U.S. Food Crisis, May 2014

Business/Economics

U.S. Job Losses & Store Closings, 01 – 03 September 2014: High school drop-outs see 46% decline in wages! School district turns to used car sales? More state & city government ass-holes killing off jobs! “Most of these churches, if you go into them, you see very small congregations…” God’s rapture kills another church?

Incomplete list of publicly announced layoffs & shutdowns:

California: Corporate executive security company, Security Industry Specialist, warned they will kill off 335 jobs in October!  San Francisco based legal drugs pusher Exelixis warned it will kill 160 jobs!  The company’s drug for a specific type of thyroid cancer failed to work on prostate cancer.   More proof the internet is not killing brick-n-mortar stores; Los Angeles based internet women’s clothing company Nasty Gal laid off at least 28 employees.  Company officials said it was part of their “vision of the future”.  In Burbank, Warner Brothers movie maker trying to kill hundreds of jobs through buyouts!  It’s blamed on Aussie Rupert Murdock backing out of his takeover offer, and parent company Time Warner’s (Turner Broadcasting) ordering of massive job culling across all its operations.  In Simi Valley, Too Big to Jail Bank of America warned it will kill 36 jobs in October.

Colorado: What housing market recovery?  West Metro Fire Rescue is recommending job killing and a 3% pay cut due to voters rejecting a levy that would have increased local tax funding.  Fire administrators blame their lack of funding on crashing home values.   The ignorant firefighters don’t seem to realize that you can’t squeeze blood from a turnip, in other words the taxpayers are maxed out due to their own crashing revenues and even unemployment!  “It’s the economy, stupid!”-attributed to Bill Clinton

Florida: In Myrtle Beach, after only a few years the Celtic themed Tilted Kilt pub shutdown, despite having 17 years to go on their lease!  According to local reports the franchisee owner sold out to somebody else, and company administrators refuse comment.

Georgia: Fort Valley University laid off 14 employees due to a 38% crash in enrollment ( what I call Disappearing Student Syndrome, DSS).  School administrators said more “tough measures” will follow.

Louisiana: A company connected to the 2010 Gulf (why do so many Canucks and New Englanders pronounce it Golf?) of Mexico oil spill is now chapter 11 bankrupt busted.  Matagorda Island Gas Operations was one of four companies accused last year by federal regulators of refusing to comply with an order to hand over documents relating to the 2010 disaster.  This bankruptcy might be a way the company is trying to get out of paying fines, because its assets far out way its debts.

Maryland: More proof the internet is not killing brick-n-mortar stores; Zenimax Online Studios killed an undisclosed number of jobs, despite claiming to “invest heavily” in its new online game.  In the Port of Baltimore, state administrators killed off plans by CSX Transportation railroad company to use double stacked container cars.  CSX has promoted the plan for five years, saying it’s needed to deal with demands for increased freight shipments, which would have created more jobs.

Michigan: Detroit based Compuware was sold off, company administrators warn massive layoffs to follow. Compuware is now owned by California based Thoma Bravo.  Detroit Public Schools are so desperate they’re now in the business of selling used cars!  Specifically, the school system auctioned off 18 surplus police cars.  I couldn’t find any reports on how the school district got a hold of the former cop cars.  More proof Michigan is a failed state; the Michigan League for Public Policy reports that overall wages have crashed 10% since 1979.  When you break it down by sex and education, low wage earning men saw a whopping 31.2% decline in pay, while adults with no high school diploma saw a 46.3% crash in earnings!  God refuses to stop the shutdown of the Saint Louis the King Church in Detroit.  Catholic administrators blame crashing membership (rapture?): “Most of these churches, if you go into them, you see very small congregations….The contributions, even when merged with all three churches, are very low, so, you can’t maintain everything.”-John Karpiej, 38 year church goer who was apparently ‘left behind’

Missouri:  Noranda Aluminum is killing 200 jobs and halting its expansion of a smelter!  Company administrators blame skyrocketing utility costs.  They even asked the state utility commission to grant a 25% reduction in their electricity bill, which was denied: “The long-term future of this plant depends on our ability to secure an affordable and competitive power rate.”-Kip Smith, CEO

New Mexico: After 35 years Cottonwood Printing shutdown by the city of Albuquerque, 12 jobs lost.  Albuquerque city A-Holes are seizing the property under their Imminent Domain law, so they can build a road.

New York: It was revealed that Obama Care killed jobs with Rural/Metro Medical Services, last month.  Company administrators finally notified the state that they were forced to consolidate their medical billing services, killing off at least 68 jobs.  In Endicott, Jim’s Formal Wear warned it will shutdown in November, 61 jobs to be lost between December and January.   In Bronx, SCO Family of Services’ warned it is shutting down their homeless shelter in November, 27 jobs lost.

North Carolina: I warned back in February that iconic cereal maker Kelloggs was about to launch its job killing operation Project K.  Local news reports say Project K has begun with the first victims, numbering 161, to be made unemployed in January!  The job killing under Project K is said to last until 2018!   Company officials say they’re hopeful they can cut their costs by $475-million over the next four years, meaning they are not optimistic about any economic recovery!  North Carolina’s tax breaks for the TV-Movie industry are proving to be a big fail.  Producers of the series Banshee are moving to Louisiana, blaming it on the high cost of doing business in the Old North State.  State administrators claim they will lose $40-million as a result!

Oregon: In Portland, Produce Row Cafe beer bar shutdown: “It is with a heavy heart that we close Produce Row today for an indefinite hiatus. We understand this is a surprise for many and know that we could not be more grateful for all of your support over the last 40 years.” 

Pennsylvania: In Lemoyne, after 18 years Bob’s Bagels & Philly Style Hoagies shutdown.

Rhode Island: Providence Newspaper Guild killed 22 jobs, it’s the result of being taken over by New Media Investment Group.  Local news reports said non-Guild positions were killed off as well.  After 31 years French restaurant Basil’s of Narragansett shutdown because the greedy property owner refused to reduce the rent.  Local news reports say the owners of the restaurant were active in supporting the community.

South Carolina: In Eutaw, after 29 years Chef’s Choice Steakhouse shutdown: “These are difficult times. Financially, steak prices are really high. It is hard to make ends meet. It was a tough decision for us to make.”-Dareen Bell Connor, co-owner

Utah: In Saint George, Iowa based Blue Bunny shutdown an ice cream factory, 100 jobs lost!   company administrators claim they must consolidate operations back to Iowa to “remain competitive” in this suck-ass economy.

Virginia: Tysons Corner based newspaper USA Today killed more jobs.  This time as many as 70 people rendered unemployed.  Company administrators said they are shifting to “self sufficient reporters producing publication ready copy”, which probably means reporters who can handle all aspects of news gathering like being their own assignment editors, camera operators, writers, copy editors, etc.  (hey, I’ve done that for almost two decades, working for small market NBC TV affiliates, and now BBN!) In Troutville, after 32 years the Waffle House shutdown.  The restaurant owners claim they are moving to a new location that can increase profits, in other words the old property owner wants more rent.

30-31 August 2014

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 shutdown. It doesn’t count people who get a severance for being laid off.

“Our ideals and principles, as well as our national security…That’s what makes America different. That’s what makes us exceptional.”-Barack Obama, 10 September 2013

Business/Economics

U.S. Food Crisis, May 2014: No more KFC, Red Lobster, Pizza kitchen, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, Ralph’s, Rainbow, TGI Friday’s??? Where’s the beef-n-cheese?

Incomplete list of announced United States food supply shutdowns for the month of May, 2014: Many food suppliers/distributors are consolidating operations and killing jobs due to the collapsing grocery store and restaurant industries, as well as rising costs of food production.

California: In Atwater, Mi Pueblo Foods shutting down in August, 279 jobs lost! In San Francisco, Grand Cafe shutting down in July, 63 jobs lost.  In West Covina, California Pizza Kitchen announced they are laying off 60 employees in August.  Also,  San Francisco based Golden Gate Capital could be the new owner of Red Lobster restaurants. The agreed to buy it for $2.1-billion USD! However, the sale won’t be finalized until the first half of 2015. No word on what Golden Gate Capital has in plan for the restaurant. The executives of the original owner, Darden Restaurants, blames the sale on pressure from stockholders.  In Riverside, Kroger owned Ralph’s grocery store announced they will shutdown in July, 80 jobs lost. In La Quinta, Kroger owned Ralph’s grocery store announced they will shutdown in July, 60 jobs lost.   In Laguna Niguel, Kroger announced it is shutting down their Ralph’s grocery store in July, 66 jobs lost. In Ventura, New French Bakery/Starbucks Coffee announced they are shutting down in July, 90 jobs lost.

Georgia:  In Tybee Island, after six years Doc’s Bar shutdown due to rent issues.

Illinois:  In Chicago, after only four years Ing restaurant shutdown.  In Bolingbrook, meat processor Quantum Foods lost a major contract. Company officials told 11-hundred employees not to come to work! The company has been losing revenue since 2012.   In Rockford, Schnuck Markets killed 163 grocery store jobs! Schnucks began “restructuring” operations at its two largest stores, and shutdown two smaller stores that were suffering from crashing sales.

Michigan: In Lansing, Cup of Dessert (aka Decker’s Coffee) shutdown.   In Ann Arbor, Kroger grocery store on South Industrial Highway shutting down in June, 103 jobs lost! It sounds like the property owners jacked up the rent, they claim they had rented the property out to Kroger at “dramatically under market” rates for decades and it was time they made a profit.  A 35 years old Le Dog hot dog stand shutdown.   After only four years Mercy’s Restaurant shutdown. The owners blamed the bad economy for creating inconsistent business.  In East Lansing, after 50 years (some reports say 77 years) Goodrich’s Shop-Rite grocery store shutting down in July, 80 jobs lost. It’s blamed on the property owners who have new plans for the property.  In Saline, after 22 years The Drowsy Parrot coffee shop shutdown without notice. Local news reports said employees were just as shocked as customers. There was no explanation from the owner, only confirmation via text message (the owner didn’t even have the guts to tell employees in person).

Minnesota:  Grocery store operator Roundy’s sold off 18 Rainbow grocery stores, 1-thousand jobs affected! At this point the new owners say they will continue operating the stores, but the names might change. The owner of dozens of Minnesota Taco Bells and Pizza Huts is now chapter 11 bankrupt busted! 140 jobs threatened! Border Foods and Sky Ventures already sold off 54 Pizza Huts back in December. They’ve already been sued for $8-million in back due rent! The company is asking the bankruptcy court to allow them to sell off more restaurants. Company officials cry ‘What economic recovery?’: “Sales have remained stagnant, costs have increased….The combination of the factors has led to a condition where the….margins have decreased and making additional capital investments….is not prudent.”-Barry Zelickson, VP

New York: In NYC, Dallas Restaurant Management renovating Fireside Restaurant and Lounge, 38 jobs lost until the renovations are completed.  National 42nd St. Realty/LIR Management shutting down their TGI Friday’s Restaurant, Tim Horton’s/KFC Food Court restaurants in August, at least 130 jobs lost! Company officials blame the bad economy.

North Carolina: In New Bern, after 79 years Maola Milk & Ice Cream announced they will shutdown in July, 98 jobs lost.

North Dakota: In Harvey, after several years of operations (and several shutdowns) the Branded Beef & Pack is being auctioned off on 04 June. The owner, Minnesota based Maas Companies, says the operation cost them more money then they were making: “Due to challenging economic conditions during the start up phase, the plant was forced to cease operations.” 

Ohio: The new company created by the merger of Anchor Hocking and Oneida kitchen ware, EveryWare Global, is in big trouble. Even with huge layoffs and factory shutdowns in Ohio the company is reporting it lost $38.4-million in its first quarter of 2014!  EveryWare Global is based out of New York, and was created by Monomoy Capital Partners.   In Dayton, Ringo’s North Star Mobile Eatery shutdown. The owners admitted that running a food truck doesn’t jive with raising children.

Pennsylvania:  In Monaca, kitchen utensil maker Anchor Hocking laid off 400 employees “temporarily”! Company officials say it is a money saving move. Anchor Hocking was consolidated with Oneida under the new EverWare Global name.

Texas: In Houston, after 19 years Crapitto’s Cucina Italiana shutdown. The property owner sold off the property to a developer who wants to tear everything down.  In Austin, after 36 years the Tamale House shutdown, the owner died.

Vermont: Keurig Green Mountain (aka Green Mountain Coffee) laid off 12 people: “Over the past several months, we have combined our Massachusetts and Vermont-based consumer-facing teams, allowing us to have a single approach to our consumer care. As a result, we expect a reduction in the number of incoming calls the team will handle directly…”

Wisconsin: In Denmark, after more than 32 years butter/cheese maker Land-O-Lakes shutting down their soft cheese factory in July, at least 90 jobs lost. Company officials say soft cheeses are no longer profitable. An employee who worked there since 1982 called it “a kick in the gut”.

U.S. Food Crisis, April 2014

Business/Economics

U.S. Job Losses & Store Closings, 30 – 31 August 2014: “It’s hard work, brother! It’s time to call it quits.” More job killing by property developers! More Obamacare job destruction!

Incomplete list of publicly announced layoffs & shutdowns:

Georgia: Troubled Paine College warning of layoffs.  The school is facing accreditation violation charges and what I call DSS (Disappearing Student Syndrome).  The college is short at least $2.4-million USD, and they blame state and federal governments: “These tough economic times are posing unprecedented challenges for colleges and universities like Paine College that have seen changes in federal aid, which include Parent Plus loans, Pell Grants and some state funding.”-George C. Bradley, president

Hawaii: Obama Care killing off 35 healthcare jobs with Hawaii Health Systems Corporation. Hospital administrators said the layoffs will take place in December.  They say Obama
Care (Affordable Care Act) caused them to lose at least $48-million!

Indiana: In Franklin, Indigo Duck restaurant announced they’re shutting  down in September.  The family owners blame the death of the founder last year, and the fact that their lease is expiring and they can’t renew.

Louisiana: In New Orleans, after 22 years the House of Shock haunted house complex announced they’re shutting down after Halloween 2014.  The operators said it’s not worth it to continue: “It’s hard work, brother! People think we’re minting money over there….it doesn’t make sense to do it….We invented the idea of the interactive haunted house. It’s time to call it quits.”-Ross Karpelman, co-founder

Massachusetts: In Springfield, JT’s Sports Pub shutdown: “Unfortunately we have not been able to secure a new lease with our landlord so it’s brought an unfortunate end for us. With the casino coming, he has bigger aspirations and feels he could get far more rent.”-Keith Makarowski, owner

Missouri: 66 dairy workers suddenly unemployed after Hazelwood Prairie Farms Dairy laid them off without notice.  Company officials say the bad economy is forcing them to change their business ‘model’.

Ohio: Middletown has laid off 11 firefighters.  It’s blamed on the Union’s rejection of a generous contract.  A firestation was also shutdown.  Local news reports say the city offered a contract that actually was going to hire on more personnel, the Union rep said he didn’t understand why the Union members voted against the deal.

Texas: In Houston, J Sussan Interiors shutdown.  Local news reports said the owner retired, however, it turns out the entire area is being drastically affected by a huge apartment “tower” building project that’s resulting in many businesses and existing apartments being shutdown!

28-29 August 2014

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 shutdown. It doesn’t count people who get a severance for being laid off.

“Our ideals and principles, as well as our national security…That’s what makes America different. That’s what makes us exceptional.”-Barack Obama, 10 September 2013

Business/Economics

U.S. Food Crisis, April 2014: “…it is clear that the current business environment….cannot be successful.”

Incomplete list of announced United States food supply shutdowns for the month of April, 2014: Many food suppliers/distributors are consolidating operations and killing jobs due to the collapsing grocery store and restaurant industries, as well as rising costs of food production.

Alabama: In Florence, Hillshire Brands announced they will shutdown their sausage factory in December, 11-hundred jobs lost just in time for Xmas! It’s blamed on skyrocketing meat prices.  In Dothan, Wayne Farms kills 560 jobs! The poultry processing company made a deal with its largest customer to supply chicken without deboning it. Turns out the number of people it takes to debone chicken made up more than half its employees!

Arizona: In Tucson, after 55 years Fruit Land Market shutdown. The property owners kicked out the Market owners, so they could sell the land to speculators.

California: In Los Angeles, Contessa Foods failed to file a proper WARN. According to state employment officials the food packager notified the state of a massive layoff the day after it killed 239 jobs! The company shutdown without warning.   In Antioch, Stonyfield Farm laid off 58 employees.  In Bell Gardens, McDonald’s shutdown, 69 jobs lost. In Cudahy, McDonald’s shutdown, 49 jobs lost. In Los Alamitos, McDonald’s shutdown, 90 jobs lost.  In Del Mar, after 46 years Pannikin Coffee & Tea shutdown, the owner blames the landlord: “We’ve been here a long time and we just couldn’t come to an agreement with the mall management on a fair rent so we didn’t renew our lease.”-Shawn Holder

Colorado:  In Delta, Dean Foods announced they must shutdown their Meadow Gold Milk plant, 38 jobs lost. It’s blamed on the lost of a major grocery store customer.

Connecticut:  In New Canaan, after 21 years Forest Street Deli shutdown. The deli owner blames the property owner, who sold the property out from under his feet!

Florida: In Boca Raton, after only nine months 101 Cantina bar shutdown. It’s blamed on constant confrontations between college students and police.

Georgia: In Newnan, Mexico based Bimbo Bakeries shutdown their Colonial Bread Store. The wimp-ass company officials delegated the authority of making the announcement to the store’s cashier!  In Savannah, after ten years Paula Deen’s Uncle Bubba’s Seafood & Oyster House shutdown without notice. It’s blamed on a racism lawsuit brought by a former employee, however, the lawsuit was “dismissed with prejudice and without any award of costs or fees” by the court. Despite that, being called a racist in the United States is worse than being called a terrorist, so down goes the Deen empire. Employees of the restaurant found out when they showed up for work and witnessed everything inside the restaurant being taken away.

Hawaii: In Maui, after more than 20 years Stella Blues Cafe shutdown. The restaurant owner stated that his landlord could no longer cut him a break on the rent.

Illinois: Kraft Foods announced they are killing 285 jobs! Most of those jobs will be in-house trucking jobs, which will now be contracted out.  In Evergreen Park, after 60 years Snackville Junction shutdown. The eatery’s signature was delivering your food on model train cars along a railroad track: “Unfortunately our last days are ahead…..We hope that somewhere somehow the Snackville Junction choo-choo will return…”-Facebook posting

In Urbana, maker of plastic eating utensils Dart Container Company laid off 36 employees.  In Champaign, after less than two years Prairie Fire restaurant shutdown without notice: “If we had days like Sunday every day, we’d still be open. But you will not be a success if your biggest day of the week is Sunday……No more ventures for me!”-Dave Block, burned out restaurant investor

Iowa:  In Beardstown, after more than 30 years IGA (Independent Grocers Alliance) hometown grocery store shutdown, 27 jobs lost: “You know Walmart came to Beardstown about five years ago and the business climate, at least for us, has declined because of that big box store. It’s just deteriorated to the point that it’s not profitable to keep the store open.”-Steve Kremer, owner

Kansas:  In Leawood, after 25 years Hy-Vee grocery store announced it will shutdown in June. Company officials said the store needed $4-million+ in remodeling but the city council actually passed ruling that forces them to shutdown: “In light of the city of Leawood’s recently passed moratorium on new development along the 135th corridor, it is clear that the current business environment in Leawood is one in which Hy-Vee cannot be successful. Two attempts to find a solution acceptable to both parties –one that allows us to continue serving our customers with the products, services and amenities that they deserve and expect — have been resisted by city officials. The first was in May 2013, when we attempted to remodel the store at its current location, and now, our most recent application to build a new store at the corner of 135th Street and Roe Avenue. Because lack of city support prevents us from providing customers with the best shopping experience we have to offer, we will be closing….”

In Lawrence, after 37 years Buffalo Bob’s Smokehouse shutdown: “…the restaurant market in Lawrence is fully saturated.”-Bob Schumm, founder

Kentucky: In Louisville, after only 18 months the relish restaurant shutdown without notice. The owner blamed the small fire safety dictated maximum seating capacity, saying serving a maximum of 53 people at a time wasn’t enough to pay even for overhead.  In Dover, the last grocery store in town shutdown! After more than 45 years Don’s Place (home to the Rock-n-Roll liars bench) closed for good. The owner is going blind, and nobody wants to take over the business.  In Paducah, The Pasta House Italian Restaurant shut down without notice: “…I am unable to continue. Please pray for me, my family and my employees.”-statement posted to front door

Michigan: In Keego Harbor, Jeremy Restaurant & Bar shutting down in May. But this is a success story! The owner said he made so much money that he is going to open an even bigger restaurant.    In Wyoming, after more than 35 years Gordy’s Market & Deli grocery store shutting down in May. 18 family-like employees now unemployed. The owner blames the new Walmart that’s about to open down the street from his store.

Minnesota:  In Mankato, after 33 years Mexican Village restaurant announced it will shutdown in May.  Upscale Fresh Seasons Market grocery store shutdown two stores, one in Victoria and one in Minnetonka. The arrogant owner admitted there isn’t enough rich people to make their format work: “The idea was that it was supposed to be an upscale market, to be able to offer fresh goods and unique ingredients to people and this great shopping experience. We didn’t get a big draw.”-Tom Wartman

Mississippi: In Pontotoc, Southern Quality Meats announced they will shutdown in June, 110 jobs lost! Operations are being consolidated to Alabama.  Abner’s Famous Chicken Tenders now chapter 11 bankrupt busted. In 2004 it was named one of the fastest growing businesses in the Magnolia State. Company officials say sales are not the issue, but necessary daily operating capital from debt financing is being cut off, so they’ve been forced to file bankruptcy by the Too Big to Jail banks.

Missouri: In Saint Louis, a Schnuck Markets grocery store shutting down in May. Company officials said it wasn’t worth it to renew the lease, and they will try to find jobs for the 65 employees.  In Saint Louis, after 53 years property speculators killed the Majestic Restaurant and Bar.

New Jersey: In Medford, Murphy’s Market shutdown a 17 years old grocery store. Company officials blamed the greedy property owner: “After great expense and effort it comes with much heartache, we as a company, were unable to reach a reasonable agreement with the building’s landlord.”

New York:  After ten years the Beast Bar shutdown.

North Carolina: In Gaston, after 42 years Mr. T’s Place restaurant shutting down in May. The owners are demanding to know when the economic recovery is going to take place! In Hendersonville, after 18 years Cypress Cellar restaurant shutdown. The owner said it’s no longer worth the amount of time she puts into the business.

Ohio:  In Riverside, Ponderosa Steakhouse restaurant shutdown without notice. Company officials blamed the property owner for jacking up the rent. They also shutdown a restaurant in Urbana in December. In 2008 Ohio based Ponderosa and Texas based Bonanza restaurants merged (controlled by Homestyle Dining).   In Mason, after 24 years Bob Evans Restaurant shutdown. The corporation is remodeling all Bob Evans restaurants, but a survey of the Mason store revealed it was too old and too costly to remodel so they decided to shut it down. Company officials claim they’ve found jobs for the 40 employees.

Pennsylvania:  In Pittsburgh, Wall Street wunderkind Warren Buffet killed more Heinz jobs. 775 people have been offered buyouts! Reports say the offer is being made to other Heinz operations. Local biased Pennsylvania news media failed to point out that Heinz is now co-owned by Warren Buffet’s Berkshire Hathaway. They only mentioned Brazil’s 3G Capital. Hey Pennsylvania news media, why didn’t you mention Warren Buffet’s involvement? By the way, the June 2013 takeover of Heinz by 3G and Warren Buffet’s Berkshire Hathaway resulted in an instant killing of 600 U.S. and Canadian jobs, followed by the announcement of several food factory shutdowns and hundreds of more layoffs for the 1st quarter of 2014!   In Intercourse, after who knows how long the iconic W.L. Zimmerman & Sons grocery store shutdown. The store was used in the movie Witness. The owner, Kristine Shirk, blames the bad economy saying “there wasn’t enough margin to work with any more.”

Tennessee:  In Hixson, Nana’s Frozen Custard brick & mortar store shutdown, now for sale. They’ve switched to a mobile truck frozen custard shop. The award winning owners blamed the suck ass economy: “High fixed costs and lower revenue make the current business model unworkable. Our re-opening day sales were disappointing, down approximately 25% as compared to the same date last year.”

Texas: In Houston, after 15 years Dirk’s Coffee (aka Diedrich Coffee) shutdown without notice.

Virginia:   In Lightfoot, after 40 years The Candy Store shutdown.

Washington: In Kelso, after only nine years Chuck E Cheese pizza place shutdown. Company officials said it was a “strategic decision”, meaning the economy sucks. In Seattle, after 25 years Maple Leaf Grill announced it will shutdown in May.

U.S. Food Crisis, March 2014

Business/Economics

U.S. Job Losses & Store Closings, 28 – 29 August 2014: “We’ve run out of money and we’ve run out of people…” Angry Christian God raptures people & money, killing more jobs? More housing market implosion!

Incomplete list of publicly announced layoffs & shutdowns:

Arizona: What housing market recovery?  British empire Australia based real estate company Colliers International says land sales in Phoenix have crashed 40% in the first half of 2014!

California: Yet another video game company killing jobs.  In San Francisco, CCP Games shutdown an office and laid off at least two executives (although CCP swears the execs voluntarily quit).  Los Angeles International airport (LAX), Menzies Aviation warned it will kill 65 jobs in November.   In San Diego, Stingaree nightclub warned it will shutdown in November, 111 jobs lost!  Owners claim it’s only temporarily, for six months of renovations.  In Mountain View, tech company Symantec laid off another two employees.  In Laguna Beach, The House of Big Fish and Ice warned it will shutdown by the end of October, 58 jobs lost.

Connecticut: In Norwalk ,  after 29 years the Appliance Servicecenter shutdown.  The owner is losing his eyesight.

Florida: In Orlando, Too Big to Jail SunBank shutting down their fraud call center, killing 105 jobs by the end of October!  After 81 years (surviving the Great Depression and numerous recessions) Pearl Artist & Craft Supply shutdown.  The store went bankrupt busted and never recovered.

Illinois: In River North, after only two years the Tavernita restaurant shutdown, without notice.  The owners lost their booze license, and allegedly owe hundreds of thousands in unpaid taxes, although restaurant reps claim the taxes were paid.  In Streeterville, after a year of promises ‘organic’ grocery store Mrs Green’s Natural Market canceled plans to open a new store.  Company officials blamed the bad economy for “timing and logistical” problems.

Iowa: After 57 years God refuses to stop the Saint Andrew’s Presbyterian Church from shutting down.  It’s now for sale, the pastor blaming the rapture of people and money: “…we’ve run out of money. We’ve run out of money and we’ve run out of people at the same time.”-Gregory Cluts

Kansas: In Hesston, maker of farming equipment AGCO laid off 24 factory workers and cut the hours for everybody else.  It’s blamed on crashing sales. Company officials warned that more layoffs will be forthcoming.  Union officials believe 80 more workers will become unemployed.

Maine: In Bangor, God refuses to stop the Christian Life Academy Daycare from shutting down.  The church pastor blames crashing donations: “We have cut everywhere we can cut, we are heartbroken that the daycare has to close too.”-Russ Hewett

Michigan: What housing market recovery?   British empire Australia based real estate company Colliers International shutdown their Detroit office.  Company officials blame it on the loss of their brokers.

Montana: In Columbia Falls, F.H. Stoltze Land and Lumber laid off ten sawmill employees.   It’s blamed on a federal court ruling that says no logging can be done in ‘protected’ grizzly bear habitat.

Nebraska: In Grand Island, farm equipment maker CNH Industrial America announced it will kill 238 jobs by November! They blame crashing sales.

Nevada: In Reno, Morrison University warned it will shutdown after the 2014-15 school year!  It’s due to the allegedly criminal actions of the owner, Anthem Education.  To make things worse for the students, they were told the university’s transfer credits are no longer recognized!

New York:  What housing market recovery? In Brooklyn, pre-fab building maker FC + Skanska Modular warned they are shutting down in October due to a lost contract, 157 jobs lost!  In Salamanca, a Parkview Supermarket grocery store shutting down in December, 72 jobs lost in time for Xmas.

Pennsylvania: Atlantic County lost 36-hundred jobs in July!

Tennessee: Memphis based Fred’s Super Dollar announced they will shutdown 70 stores by the end of 2014, hundreds of jobs lost!  Company officials said it’s their way of raising cash to buy up pharmacies!

Wisconsin: Fidelity National Information Services (FIS) shutting down their print and mail ops, 32 jobs lost.

26-27 August 2014

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 shutdown. It doesn’t count people who get a severance for being laid off.

“Our ideals and principles, as well as our national security…That’s what makes America different. That’s what makes us exceptional.”-Barack Obama, 10 September 2013

Business/Economics

U.S. Job Losses & Store Closings, 26 – 27 August 2014: “There’s no way they can propose this plan without threatening patient care!” Ignorant healthcare workers cry foul, yet refuse to blame the Obamacare BullShit! More massive Obamacare shutdowns!

Incomplete list of publicly announced layoffs & shutdowns:

Alabama: The city of Hartselle laid off three employees, blaming the  the iconic taxpayer subsidized TVA.   Taxsucker Document and Packaging Brokers (Docupak) lost a major contract with the National Guard Bureau and will kill an undisclosed amount of jobs.  Birmingham based Simply Fashion has taken over New York based bankrupt busted Dots women clothing retailer.  Dots had already shutdown 400 stores!  Simply Fashion claims they will re-open 120 Dots stores.

Arkansas: Obama Care was the final straw that killed off the Crittenden Regional Hospital and clinic system!  However, there are charges that administrators mismanaged the healthcare system, lawsuits and possible criminal charges are pending.   In Marion, Texas based Clark Freight Lines shutdown.  Company officials say there are too many trucking companies to compete with.

California: In Cayucos, after more than 20 years highly praised Hoppe’s Garden Bistro shutdown.  In Palo Alto, Disney killing off more jobs, this time 55 Disney Interactive employees were laid off.  In Sunnyvale, Aruba Networks killed off 116 jobs!  In Los Angeles, healthcare management company Precyse Solutions warned they will kill 61 jobs in November.  Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital killing 120 healthcare jobs! Hospital administrators say insurance written Obama Care (Affordable Car Act) is forcing them to cut back in the name of being “efficient”.  However, like frogs in a boiling pot, it’s obvious that the ignorant healthcare workers are still oblivious to what Obama Care is doing to them, instead blaming the hospital for reducing access to medical care:  “There’s no way they can propose this plan without threatening patient care!”-Damian Tryon, California Nurses Association

Florida: After 24 years elitist residential Marcus Pointe Golf Club announced they’re shutting down in time for Xmas.

Illinois: In Palantine, after 14 years non-profit cancer center Wellness Place shutdown.  Officials blame the bad economy for reduced donations.

Indiana: Trucking company Talon Logistics Services announced they will kill 60 jobs in September.

Iowa: In Sioux City, after 85 years (and surviving the Great Depression and numerous recessions) the Green Gables restaurant shutdown.  The family owners say they cannot survive this so called ‘recovery’.

Kentucky: T-shirt shop Cafe Press shutdown their store in the Mall Saint Matthews.

Nebraska: In Omaha, McKenna’s Blues Booze and BBQ shutdown.

New Mexico: According to the New Mexico Hospital Association (NMHA) Obama Care is destroying access to healthcare!  20 of New Mexico’s 44 hospitals have killed jobs and cut services as a direct result of insurance payment reductions mandated by Obama Care: “…. key services are being eroded around the state at the very time when services are needed to respond to the growing demand resulting from coverage expansion.”-Jeff Dye, NMHA

New Jersey: Atlantic City is blaming the massive casino shutdowns for forcing them to kill off 300 city jobs!

New York: In NYC, Food Emporium #36-719 shutting down in November, 76 jobs lost.  Due to Obama Care Eastern Niagara Hospital ceased its inpatient care services at its Newfane hospital, and ceased its ER ops at its Lockport hospital, 185 jobs lost as a result! Hospital administrators say they’ve lost $1.7-million USD since Obama Care went into effect!

North Carolina: Dosher Memorial Hospital now asking that all healthcare workers who’re 60 years of age and had five years of employment, to take early retirement!  If that’s not enough they’ll be forced to outright layoff healthcare workers. Hospital officials blame the bad economy made worse by reduced insurance payments due to Obama Care.  Administrators with giant Vidant Health are directly blaming Obama Care for crashing revenues, which are forcing them to kill 175 healthcare jobs!  Vidant Health runs eight hospitals in-state and was planning on spending $128-million for upgrades, but officials say if the Obama Care insurance payments reductions get worse then the upgrades are off.

Ohio:  The Buckeye State lost 12400 jobs in July!

Pennsylvania: After 31 years all Fun Party Stores being shut down!  Once there were five, but now none.  Fun Party Stores joins a competing party store chain which shutdown three stores, in all eight party stores shutdown over an eight months period!  The owners of Fun Party blames ‘big box’ stores and the internet (even though many ‘big box’ stores are shutting down ops, and internet businesses are suffering crashing revenues as well.  After all, Fun Party could sell on the internet as well).   The oldest public library in the United States, the Darby Free Library, warned it could shutdown due to state taxpayer funding cuts.  Library officials say the funding cuts come at a time when their costs of operations are skyrocketing.  The library was built in 1743!

Texas: Denmark based Maersk Oil revealed they killed off 215 jobs!  Company officials basically said the Gulf of Mexico doesn’t have the oil that it was first thought to have, and they’ve lost money on trying to extract it.  Houston based Waste Management warned of massive job cuts across the country.  The hazardous waste mis-management company is facing $2-billion in fines for failing to properly manage dioxins!

Washington: More proof the internet is not killing brick-n-mortar stores.  Social media company Simply Measured laid off 15 employees, just five months after getting $20-million from venture capitalists.   Washington state’s Employment Security Department killing off 149 jobs in October!

23-25 August 2014

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 shutdown. It doesn’t count people who get a severance for being laid off.

“Our ideals and principles, as well as our national security…That’s what makes America different. That’s what makes us exceptional.”-Barack Obama, 10 September 2013

Business/Economics, Idaho

U.S. Food Crisis, March 2014: “Sadly we have been unable to recover……” “…It’s not fun anymore!” “It’s like a death in the family.”

Incomplete list of announced United States food supply shutdowns for the month of March, 2014: Many food suppliers/distributors are consolidating operations and killing jobs due to the collapsing grocery store and restaurant industries, as well as rising costs of food production.

Arizona: In Phoenix, after 50 years Karsh’s Bakery shutdown. The owner blames the failed economy: “It’s sad to say we are closing today because of the economy and stuff, we’ve tried to come back from 2008.”-Wayne Kinding

California:  In Oakland, Mexico owned Bimbo Bakeries shutdown, about 160 jobs lost!   In Sacramento, The Fresh Market grocery store chain shutdown three stores! The company blamed the bad economy.  Kroger shutdown two more Ralph’s grocery stores, 107 jobs lost!  In Fair Oaks, after more than 50 years Sam’s Kosher Style Restaurant & Deli shutdown.   In Truckee, after 13 years Dragonfly Restaurant shutdown. The owner said he was made an “offer he couldn’t refuse” by aggressive property developers.  In Napa, after 29 years the Golden Carrot Natural Foods store shutdown.  In Vernon, Mexico based Bimbo Bakeries shutdown, about 160 jobs lost! In Los Angeles, The Fat Cow burger joint shutdown, 92 jobs lost.  In Torrance, after more than 40 years Vince’s Spaghetti shutdown, 35 jobs lost: “The last three or four years have been a real struggle to make ends meet. It’s like a death in the family. For the past few years its been like watching a patient on life support.”-Gregg Parras, general manager

Colorado: In Steamboat Springs, state tax collectors seized the Bakery Restaurant. The Colorado Department of Revenue says the restaurant owes about $8-thousand USD in sales taxes. The city officials of Steamboat Springs says the restaurant owes them $4-thousand in taxes. Apparently the restaurant also owes the federal IRS $26-thousand in payroll taxes! This is what happens when the economy sucks ass!!!! At least the restaurant was keeping people employed, now everybody’s unemployed!  In Denver, Kevin Taylor Restaurant Group shutdown two restaurants; Restaurant Kevin Taylor and Prima Ristorante.  In Manitou Springs, the Craftwood Inn shutdown without notice. The owners blame it on the many wildfires and flooding in recent years: “I just found out yesterday. I don’t know what I’m going to do. I’m pretty sure that they could not recover from the last two summers. The fires and floods hurt business so much the last few years that Dave and wife Kathy could not keep up.”-Matt Schee, hotel chef

Connecticut: After only six years Mitchell’s Fish Market shutdown, no reason made public.

Florida: In Lakeland, after only five years DC’s Sports Bar shutdown. And the Fishin’ Shed Tackle Shop shutdown. The owners blame Walmart.  In Tampa, after 13 years The Palm restaurant shutdown. The owners blame the f*cked up economy: “Unfortunately, we are not able to continue to operate our restaurant into the rest of 2014.”

In Boca Raton, after only two years and $250-thousand in remodeling upscale Red, The Steakhouse shutdown. The owner was shocked at how much business crashed since last summer: “We are dumbfounded it came to this!……..When summer hit, there weren’t enough people…..No energy!”-Brad Friedlander

Georgia: In Richmond Hill, after more than 33 years manufacturer of foodservice and food retail products, Hobart, shutting down, 50 jobs lost. Operations are being consolidated to Ohio.

Hawaii: In Waikiki, ice cream shop Cold Stone Creamery shutdown. The owner blamed it on the greedy landlord who jacked up the rent.

Idaho: In Nampa, food producer Simplot announced they will shutdown operations at the end of May, 206 jobs lost! It’s part of their ongoing consolidations of food processing.

Illinois: In Lakemore, after 38 years Le Vichyssois restaurant shutdown.  In Saint Charles, after only five years Dolce Bakery and Cafe shutdown without notice. In Chicago, Angel Food Bakery shutdown, the owner Stephanie Samuels blames the gott damned economy, saying “I have given my heart, soul, and just about everything else I’ve got to this project of mine, but I have not been able to make it sustainable for me….”

Indiana: In Evansville, after 20 years Maxine’s Café and Bakery shutdown. The owner blamed declining business.

Iowa: After 18 years Carlos O’Kelly’s Mexican Cafe shutdown three restaurants!  In Sioux City, after 30 years Rhonda’s Speak Easy shutting down, 10 jobs lost. Blame Obama Care! The bar owner is going to take advantage of Obama Care’s focus on in-home healthcare, and she’s going to start an in-home healthcare service.

Kansas: In McPherson a major food processor, Nation Pizza and Foods, ending operations. As many as 195 jobs lost!

Kentucky: Two Shoney’s restaurants, in Henderson and Owensboro, shutting down. It’s blamed on a franchise dispute and court fees.

Maryland: British empire Canada based Saputo announced they were shutting down their Hancock cheese factory.  In Gambrills, after 14 years Caribou Coffee shutdown.

Michigan:  In Clinton Township, after only six years Tin Fish 3 restaurant/nightclub shutdown. The owners hadn’t been able to pay half-a-million in back due rent!

Minnesota:  In Shoreview, after 40 years Kozlak’s Royal Oak Restaurant shutdown. The property was sold to make room for a nursing home co-op.   In Hibbing, after 30 years Zimmy’s restaurant shutdown. The owner was unable to pay taxes and lost their booze license.  In Saint Cloud, the owner of Bo Diddley’s Pub & Deli announced he was shutting it down in April.  Who said high tech jobs are recession proof? Food processor Cargill announced it will kill 900 IT jobs across the country, 300 of which are in Minneapolis–Saint Paul! Cargill will now rely on lower paid contractors.

Missouri: In Jefferson City, after more than 30 years Mortimer Kegley’s Bar & Grill shutdown. The owner, Jason Jordan, blamed social media and a ban on smoking saying “When that smoking ban went into effect, I lost 30% of my customers straightaway!”

Nebraska: In Omaha, after 61 years Broadmoor Market shutdown. The owners blamed the crappy economy: “Thank you for all your support and patronage over the years. It is unfortunate that circumstances have changed.” 

New Mexico: In Farmington, after only three years My Big Fat Greek Restaurant shutdown, 38 jobs lost. The restaurant owner blamed the greedy property owner.

New Jersey: In Bordentown, maker of cranberry based juices Ocean Spray killing 138 jobs! They’re shutting down their factory and moving to Pennsylvania.  In Jersey City, iconic Casa Dante restaurant shutdown without warning. A finance company stated that the restaurant owners hadn’t paid rent since October 2013! News reports say it was a court order that shutdown the Italian eatery & music joint.

New York: Dallas Restaurant Management Company shutting down Fireside Restaurant and Lounge in June, 38 jobs lost. FLIK foodservice company shutting down in May, 46 jobs lost.  Food supplier ConAgra announced it will kill at least 425 jobs when it shuts down operations in Dunkirk and Fredonia, in 2015!  In Amsterdam, Quandt’s Foodservice Distributors moved their planned layoffs to the end of April. The company was sold off, 116 jobs will be lost!   In Brooklyn, Voila Sweets announced it is shutting down in June, 72 jobs lost.  In Long Island, Mexico based Bimbo Bakeries shutting down their Entenmann’s Bay Shore bakery, 178 jobs lost!

North Carolina: In Winston-Salem, after 16 years Ollie’s Bakery shutdown. The landlord is the suspect.   Hartigan’s Irish Pub shut down. The owner blamed safety issues with the 100 years old building.  In Raleigh, after 29 years Fat Daddy’s Market & Grill shutdown, 45 jobs lost.

Ohio: Grocery store Giant Eagle shutting down two stores, one in Toledo, one in Rossford, 179 jobs lost! Company officials say there are too many grocery stores in the U.S.

Oregon: In Portland, Ivories Jazz Lounge and Restaurant shutdown. No reason given, but reviews of the restaurant were hit & miss. Many customers were shocked by the unadvertised cover charge for the bands.

Pennsylvania: At State College, after only four years Quizno’s sandwich shop shutdown. The owner blamed the bad economy and what I call DSS (Disappearing Student Syndrome).  In South Union Township, after 22 years Cherry Tree Cafe shutdown.

South Carolina: In Charleston, after 27 years upscale Carolina’s restaurant shutdown.  In Rock Hill, grocery store Compare Foods shutdown. 50 jobs lost. The manager blames the suck ass economy: “The recession hit Rock Hill pretty hard and we’ve been suffering from that as well. There are a lot of businesses that have been dealing with that.”-Omar Jorge

In Richmond, the Piggly Wiggly grocery store shutdown, 37 jobs lost. In Landrum, Ken’s Meats & Seafood shutdown after only three years of operations. The owners said everything was going good until summer 2013, when sales crashed: “We just didn’t have enough local support to sustain us for the long run. Unfortunately I can count on two fingers how many local businesses bought from us and that was unfortunate…..demand for my products is just not here in our local community.”-Ken Brackett, co-owner

South Dakota: In Sioux Falls, after 60 years Sid’s Liquor shutdown. The president of Sid’s blamed his crashing sales on state officials who, in 2008, passed a law that allowed big corporations to have more than one liquor license: “It’s like there’s a liquor store on every block. And we saw our sales decline by over 1-Million dollars a year! Which was a real kick in the pants. And we started losing money, and the losses just keep getting bigger!”-Paul Damyan

Tennessee: In Gallatin, after only two years Butterbean Bakery and Bistro shutdown.

Texas: In Oak Cliff, Frito-Lay announced they will shutdown a factory and a warehouse in August, 163 jobs lost!  Frito-Lay is owned by anti-2nd Amendment Pepsi.  In Sherman, two restaurants shutdown; the six years old Little Italy and the 37 years old Braums on North Travis. The owners of Little Italy says city officials forced them to close. No explanation was given by the owners of Braums.  In Midland, Walter’s family restaurant shutdown. The restaurant owner blames the greedy property owner for jacking up the rent.  In Sugar Land, after less than one year the Fiesta Market Place grocery store shutdown! I couldn’t find any reports that explained why.

Vermont: After 22 years the Shaftsbury Country Store shutdown.

Virginia: In Parsley, 20 employees of Fresh Pride now unemployed. The company that owns Fresh Pride, Camellia Food Stores, has a history of shutting down stores without notice, even on the day after Xmas.   In Charleston, reports that the Sushi Atlantic market shutdown.  In Virginia Beach, after 40 years That Which Cannot Be Named refused to stop the shutdown of The Jewish Mother Hilltop restaurant and dance club/music venue. The Jewish Mother Hilltop has been plagued by lawsuits, financial problems and recent health problems for the owner. The owner also admitted that January and February saw crashing revenues, and he was unable to pay rent.  The 3rd largest privately held foodservice company in the U.S. killing jobs. Reinhart Foodservice announced they were laying off 49 employees by April. Company officials refused to explain why.  In Bristol, after ten years Inari Wines shutdown: “It’s been slowing down and slowing down. Sales have been flat.…It’s not fun anymore!”-Paul Brandt, co-owner

Washington: After less than five years Savour specialty food store shutdown.

West Virginia: In Charleston, Thelma Fay’s Cafe shutdown, it’s blamed on that massive chemical spill by Freedom Industries: “Sadly we have been unable to recover our losses during the water crisis……” 

Wisconsin: Ice machine maker Manitowoc Company killing 150 U.S. jobs! The patriotic ‘American’ company is moving production to Mexico and China.  In Lodi, after more than 93 years (surviving the Great Depression and numerous recessions) Weber’s Bakery shutdown. The owner Noel Weber blamed the not-so-recovered economy stating “…we can’t continue this way and we have to call it a day!”   In Appleton, reports that after 21 years supplier to home beer, wine and soda pop makers, Homebrew Market, shutdown.  Grocery store Supervalu shut down their Pleasant Prairie regional office, 155 jobs lost! Another 200 jobs will be eliminated across the country!   British empire Canada based Saputo shutting down their New London cheese factory.

U.S. Food Crisis, February 2014

Business/Economics

U.S. Job Losses & Store Closings, 23 – 25 August 2014: “….we lost 60% of our trees….” No more peaches? Thousands (?) could lose their jobs with Ashley Furniture! More coal mine shutdowns!

Incomplete list of publicly announced layoffs & shutdowns:

California:  Bellflower Unified School District laid off all ten bus drivers.  The reasons are convoluted, ranging from lack of funding to driver misbehavior.   Iconic Colorado based canning and packaging company Ball (Metal Food & Household) killing 159 jobs in Oakdale!  Company officials say they lost a major contract with ConAgra, providing cans for canned tomatoes.  In Pittsburg, taxsucker USS-POSCO Industries warned they are killing 643 jobs in October!  In San Francisco, British empire company and U.S. taxsucker BAE Systems announced an additional 87 layoffs for September.  In Irvine, legal drugs pusher Allergan warned it will kill an additional 129 jobs in October!

Indiana:  Coal mining company Vectren selling off three mines.  At least 120 contracted miners will be let go once the mines are sold!  More proof the internet is not responsible for killing of brick-n-mortar stores; internet based consumer product reviewer Angie’s List killed 97 jobs.  Company officials blamed a loss of $18.4-million USD on increasing costs of operations.

Iowa: Agricultural equipment supplier Demco Products laid off 26 employees, due to crashing sales.

Massachusetts: Brockton School Committee laid off 47 crossing guard positions.  This comes after a local newspaper investigated reports that janitors were being paid as much as $50 per hour in overtime to double as crossing guards!   And despite all that overtime pay, an 11th child was hit by a vehicle while crossing a street to go to school!

Minnesota: Twin Metals Minnesota eliminated 16 positions as it moves into the next phase of its copper and nickel mine exploration.  After 34 years Tatters vintage clothing store shutdown, the owner blamed rising rent, which the landlord blamed on rising property taxes.

New York: An update on the massive job killing at Time Warner Turner Network, employees at CNN and HLN are being asked to quit voluntarily, the company is offering 550 buyouts!

North Carolina: Peat moss distributor Sun Gro shutting down in September, 16 jobs lost.

Ohio: Fruit Growers Marketing Association says don’t expect any peaches in your grocery store: “There’s not much to talk about with the peach crop because, frankly, there isn’t one!  There might have been a few farms down south by the Ohio River that weren’t affected, but for the most part this year was a disaster!”-Bill Dodd, Ohio Fruit Growers Marketing Association

It wasn’t just the fruit that was lost: “…as a result of last winter’s frost we lost most of our older peach orchard. We lost the trees themselves!….we lost 60% of our trees….”-Martha Mora, Johnston Fruit Farm

Oregon: Cooperative Pendleton Grain Growers selling off six AG Supply stores and one Pendleton Automotive Service Center.  They hope the stores are sold off by September.  Latest news reports say the co-op is not having luck finding buyers, which means a lot of people will become unemployed.

Utah: In West Jordan, California based Fairchild Semiconductor ceasing operations, 500 jobs lost!  When combined with their shutdowns in Malaysia and Korea (south), 1350 people will become unemployed!  Company officials say they need to cut $55-million from their expenses, as sales are crashing.

Virginia: In Grafton, after 28 years the Adams Shoe Store shutdown. The owner blamed the “slow economy”.

Wisconsin: After getting a $6-million tax break from the state, Ashley Furniture announced they are expanding and killing jobs at the same time! A local news report says the tax deal could end up killing half of Ashley Furniture’s jobs, potentially 1919 employees!  In New London, the Occasional Stamper stamping and scrapbooking shop shutdown.

21-22 August 2014

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 shutdown. It doesn’t count people who get a severance for being laid off.

“Our ideals and principles, as well as our national security…That’s what makes America different. That’s what makes us exceptional.”-Barack Obama, 10 September 2013