Private apple processor shutting down (107 jobs lost)

[flamingyouth]

Private apple processor Hi-Country Foods shutting down
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

YAKIMA, Wash. -- Apple processor Hi-Country Foods Corp. of Selah is permanently closing its plant and will lay off 107 area workers by next Friday.

The decision follows failed negotiations to sell the company to Cliffstar Corp., a New-York based juice maker, and "unforeseen" decisions by its bank to cease financial support, the company said in a notice to the Yakima Board of County Commissioners and Selah city officials.

The company had expected to stay open at least through the end of the year, the notice said. Hi-Country officials declined further comment Friday.

Earlier this month, the company discussed closing with the Teamsters union, but gave no official notice. The union represents about 65 workers at Hi-Country, including forklift drivers, and warehouse and shipping personnel. Most are full-time jobs, paying up to $13.50 an hour. The majority of the other layoffs are in general administration and labor.

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/aplocal_story.asp?category=6420&slug=WA%20Processor%20Shutdown

Yet, Eastern Washington continually votes Repuke. Wonder if the GOP will be hitting up the unemployed for donations next year? Either way, sad news for the US' major apple grower.