RECESSION WATCH: Weirton Med Center Eliminating 36 Positions, Goody's Closing Seven WV Stores, 10,000 Jobs Nationally

(01/08/2009)

MED CENTER CUTBACK - Government officials have said healthcare will be the least affected during the nation's financial meltdown. A second hospital in West Virginia this week is announcing permanent layoffs. Weirton Medical Center is eliminating the equivalent of 36 full-time jobs next month. President Joseph Endrich says the cuts will save $2 million a year. He said Wednesday they will include union, non-union and management positions. Endrich did not give reasons for the cut-backs, except to say they would not affect the quality of care. The hospital employs 1,090 people. GOODY'S DEPT. STORES GO DOWN - Discount clothing chain Goody's Family Clothing will begin liquidating its stores, including seven in West Virginia. About 10,000 employees are losing their jobs. The Tennessee-based company which emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection less than four months ago, will begin liquidation sales this week. Goody's is one of the first retailers in 2009 to fall victim to the collapsing economy. Several others are expected to follow. Goody's has 287 stores in 20 states, including West Virginia outlets in Charleston, Nitro, Logan, Beckley, Clarksburg, Princeton and Summersville.

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