Reading the Business section of the local paper:

Top Stories from the Buffalo News:

Data show economy is picking up steam

The productivity of U.S. workers grew at its fastest pace in more than 20 years during the third quarter, providing yet another sign that corporate America and the nation's economy are both on the mend.

*and yet:

Two call centers in area survive cuts by Adelphia

Adelphia Communications will preserve its call centers in Western New York, and perhaps add to them, as it closes teleservice offices elsewhere, company officials said.

Ellicott Paint will close its doors after 82 years

Ellicott Paint and Decorating is ending its 82-year run in Western New York. The family business is closing its four Erie County stores, in the Town of Tonawanda, Depew, Cheektowaga and West Seneca. Liquidation sales are being held at the Tonawanda store, which is on Sheridan Drive, and at the Depew location on Walden Avenue.

Xerox cuts another 800 jobs

ROCHESTER (AP) - Xerox Corp. is eliminating about 800 jobs in the United States, including 200 in Rochester, as part of a long-term effort to streamline operations.

Dana exits aftermarket business

Dana Corp., the largest maker of replacement auto parts other than tires, is exiting the business to focus on making axles and engine parts for pickup trucks and other models.

http://www.buffalonews.com/business/

The LEAST they could do is be consistant when they lie.

As for productivity, does anyone if hiring contractors and/or sending jobs offshore show up as an increase of productivity? Seems to me, if you lay off people and hire contractors, they're not employees, but things show up as more work done by current employees.