Here is an enouraging article from the Daily Tribune:
MONDAY DECEMBER 27, 2010 Last modified: Tuesday, December 21, 2010 11:35 AM CST
Texas employers add 19,100 jobs during Nov.
AUSTIN – Texas total nonfarm employment was up by 19,100 jobs in November, representing the addition of 192,100 jobs in the last year. The Texas unemployment rate rose slightly to 8.2 percent in November and continued to trend well below the U.S. unemployment rate for November at 9.8 percent.
The Texas unemployment rate has ranged between 8.1 and 8.3 percent during 2010.
“Texas employers have added jobs in eight of the last 12 months, setting the pace for the rest of the nation,” said Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Chairman Tom Pauken. “Most industries recorded positive growth over the year.”
Professional and Business Services increased by 5,600 jobs in November, adding 61,200 positions from a year ago. Leisure and Hospitality employment increased by 4,700 positions in November for a total job gain of 19,100 jobs since November 2009.
“Consistent job growth over the past year offers employment opportunities for Texas workers,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Ronny Congleton. “Staff at TWC and the 240 workforce centers across the state are committed to assisting those job seekers who remain unemployed.”
Employment in Education and Health Services increased by 4,300 jobs in November with a total of 47,900 jobs added in this industry since November 2009. Financial Activities employment increased by 2,000 jobs in November, adding 5,900 jobs over the year.
In November, Information employment increased by 1,700 jobs; Construction added 1,000 jobs; and Mining and Logging grew by 300 positions.
“Recent job growth has spurred an increase in the Texas labor force which has continued to expand for the third consecutive month, currently at 12.2 million workers,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Andres Alcantar. “Job seekers should take advantage of the many services available at no-cost from their local workforce development boards across the state.”
The Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) had the lowest November unemployment rate in the state at 5.3 percent. The Amarillo MSA had the second lowest unemployment rate in November at 5.7 percent, followed by the Lubbock MSA at 6.1 percent (not seasonally adjusted).
