21.   A number of large companies announced layoffs, so the picture is not likely to brighten soon.

22.   But Butler did not budge over the weekend, and on Monday the mayor announced the layoffs in a dismissive, even contemptuous, tone.

23.   But officials said more layoffs would be announced across the system as administrators continue to find areas where services can be consolidated and staff cut.

24.   But so far, those industries have not announced layoffs.

25.   But now the two parties are still arguing over details, and companies are still announcing layoffs.

26.   CBS and NBC each announced layoffs in the hundreds, while ABC said it would make nonpersonnel cuts.

27.   Companies will probably add fewer jobs, and more will announce layoffs.

28.   Consulting Slowdown Leads to Cuts Scient and PricewaterhouseCoopers announced layoffs, citing a decline in demand for their advisory services.

29.   Corporate profits are slowing, prominent companies are announcing layoffs, and the consumer confidence index is falling.

30.   Crude oil prices are in the tank, and several energy companies have recently announced sizeable layoffs in their work forces.