Morning News: Layoffs Announced For Coeur d’Alene Call Center Closure

Jobs, exports gain steam – “The drop was largely because of cheaper oil imports. But exports also rose to a record-high $185 billion, an encouraging sign at a time when global growth has slowed. U.S. companies even sold more goods in Europe, despite the region’s ongoing financial crisis. “ Associated Press

U.S. Unveils Mortgage Protections For Homeowners – “The government’s consumer lending watchdog proposed new rules Friday aimed at protecting homeowners from unexpected costs and shoddy service by companies that collect their monthly mortgage payments.” Associated Press

Coeur d’Alene Call Center To Close – “Union representatives said this week that the more than 100 employees at the Frontier Communications Corp. call center in Coeur d’Alene are losing their jobs so the company can turn around and hire cheaper labor in South Carolina. In May, the Stamford, Conn.-based telecommunications company announced plans to open a call center in Myrtle Beach, S.C., and hire more than 100 people. The Coeur d’Alene center is to close Sept. 18.” Coeur d’Alene Press