AP - The U.S. trade deficit rose to the highest level in three months, with record oil prices and a flood of toys and other imports from China swamping a solid gain in American exports.

Fed cuts rates by a quarter-point (FT.com)
FT.com - The Federal Reserve on Tuesday cut interest rates by 25 basis points in an effort to offset renewed strain in the credit markets and keep the US economy out of recession.
Such cases are often a human resource supervisor's worst nightmare. The bruised feelings of the former worker may express themselves in ways that damage the business. Step 2: Decide How To sack. Rule 1 - Show respect to the individual you're dismissing. When you sit down to let the employee go, you should be sincere, but professional. Whether the company is large or small, make sure your dismissed worker keeps their dignity. To qualify for these extra severance benefits, you agree to release unconditionally [Your small company] and its representatives from liability for ANY claim arising from your employment including this termination.

o Option 10: Layoff Or Reassign The employer. The template of an employee separation notice sample is given below. The employee will, certainly, claim the "real" reason for her lay off was because she took workers' comp, and she'll get an attorney-at-law to sue you. This brief article gives some tips on how to complete a worker separation correctly. When it comes to job termination, it is important to follow standardized procedures established well before the need to dismiss a worker presents itself. You can also question the worker about why he or she desires to be insubordinate to your instruction. Sacking workforce is an emotional minefield not only for the worker, but also for you. Now a worker has violated a direct order. Making your termination letter employee foolproof can be done if you prepare ahead of time.