Horses Laid Off as Cop Budgets Trimmed

Could devastate a still-ailing economy, writes Catherine Rampell

(NEWSER) - Economists say we could be headed for a second recession—and if they’re right, it’s poised to be even more devastating than the first, writes Catherine Rampell in the New York Times . That’s because the starting point for the second dip would be our current weak economy, and this time, policymakers have little room to fix things. Consumers don't have much fat to cut, either—they did that already—meaning families would have to "cut from the bone." More»

Another hurdle for job-seekers as unemployment nears 10%

(NEWSER) - Finding a job when unemployment is at 9.4% is hard enough. But the recently laid-off have another hurdle to contend with: Many employers are most interested in attracting candidates who are still working, the Wall Street Journal reports. “If they’re employed in today’s economy, they have to be first string,” says a partner at an executive recruiting firm. More»

It's not a raise, but perk goes long way in tough times, managers say

(NEWSER) - The way to employee satisfaction is apparently through their stomachs. Businesses slicing jobs and benefits in tough times are finding that free food is a cheap way to boost worker morale, the Boston Globe reports. The majority of financial officers recently surveyed—68%—is taking steps to boost employee spirits. Increasing contact was the top approach, but experts say food is also effective. More»

(NEWSER) - Already-downsized companies seeking to cut costs further will likely increase temporary layoffs this summer, hoping the season will ease the pain of a missed paycheck, Fortune reports. A recent poll found that 44% of US companies are considering or have already implemented furloughs. But some institutions and employees are getting creative about the possibilities; furcation, anyone? More»

Women take on role of breadwinner as 4 of 5 lost jobs hit men

(NEWSER) - She's chef, cheerleader, and Florence Nightengale to scraped knees, but with the economy stinking like a previously enjoyed diaper, Mom is more and more often also a family's breadwinner, reports NPR. As male-dominated industries hemorrhage jobs, 14% of working moms are taking second jobs, a survey suggests. The recession has cost some 5.7 million jobs, four out of five of which were held by men. “Working moms want the gift of time this Mother's Day,” says a careers expert. More»