Metzgar, state officials say they're working to help Corsa Coal workers impacted by layoffs
SOMERSET, Pa. – Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry officials plan to meet next week with hundreds of Corsa Coal employees being laid off amid the mining company's closure, officials said.
State Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar, R-Somerset, said he recognized the 'uncertainty' the shutdown creates for the workers and their families – and said that state officials are actively engaged in ensuring they have support available to help them move forward.
The Department of Labor & Industry's Rapid Response Team is stepping in to communicate with employees, as well as Corsa Coal subsidiary Wilson Creek Energy, to ensure that proper support services are provided, officials said.
'I have contacted Gov. (Josh) Shapiro and the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry's Rapid Response team to ensure impacted employees have the necessary services readily available to them,' Metzgar said.
In a message to Corsa Coal employees, he added: 'My office is here to help with unemployment claims or other questions you have during this time.'
Corsa Coal announced the layoffs in March, just two months after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection as an effort to try to work through financial struggles.
Corsa Coal and its Wilson Creek Energy subsidiary throughout Somerset County are impacted, including 332 workers whose layoffs are effective this Friday.
Last week, a federal bankruptcy judge approved a $23.5 million sale of Corsa mining assets to Johnstown-based LCT Energy and Kittanning-based Rosebud Mining, which both have a significant mining presence in the region.
Rosebud Mining has indicated that approximately 50 of Corsa's workers will be offered work with that company. That would leave many more employees at a difficult crossroads, but state officials are willing to help, Department of Labor & Industry Secretary Nancy A. Walker said.
An informational meeting Tuesday for laid-off Corsa workers will 'immediately connect impacted workers with critical resources and meaningful re-employment opportunities,' she said.
'When workers suddenly lose jobs that provide family-sustaining wages and benefits, the ripple effects are felt throughout our communities,' Walker said.
The Department of Labor & Industry's Rapid Response team is actively engaged with Corsa Coal and Wilson Creek Energy to support affected employees, she said.
Metzgar's office is also available to provide support, he said. Anyone impacted by the closure was invited to stop by 1808 N. Center Ave., Suite 200, Somerset, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays or call 814-443-4230 for assistance, he said.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time Business News
5 hours ago
- Time Business News
Meet&Co Office Furniture Wholesaler: Trusted Partner for Modern Workspaces
In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, the design and functionality of office spaces play a crucial role in productivity, collaboration, and overall employee satisfaction. Businesses worldwide are shifting toward modern workspaces—open, modular, ergonomic, and inspiring. At the core of this transformation is Meet&Co, a globally trusted office furniture wholesaler renowned for its innovative designs, quality craftsmanship, and full-service approach. Whether you're a startup founder, interior designer, procurement officer, or enterprise-level decision-maker, this guide will help you understand why Meet&Co is the ideal partner to furnish your modern workspace efficiently and affordably. Meet&Co is a China-based office furniture manufacturer and wholesaler, with over a decade of experience delivering stylish, ergonomic, and scalable office furniture to clients worldwide. Known for their reliability and ability to handle bulk orders, Meet&Co has become a household name in B2B office furnishings, serving corporations, resellers, coworking spaces, and educational institutions across more than 100 countries. Key facts about Meet&Co: Headquarters: Guangzhou, China Founded: 2011 Service Reach: Over 100 countries Product Range: Office desks, chairs, workstations, conference tables, storage, and lounge furniture Core Values: Innovation, Integrity, Customization, and Customer Satisfaction Buying wholesale isn't just about getting better prices—it's about scale, consistency, and long-term value. Here's why sourcing from a wholesale supplier like Meet&Co is a smart business decision: Meet&Co offers competitive pricing for bulk orders, which is essential for startups, real estate developers, and companies outfitting entire office buildings. Wholesale partnerships allow businesses to expand or reconfigure spaces easily without design inconsistencies or availability issues. Wholesale suppliers often offer customization. Meet&Co, for instance, tailors finishes, sizes, and upholstery to match your brand's aesthetic. With logistics partners across continents, Meet&Co ensures on-time delivery and smooth customs processes for international clients. Meet&Co isn't just a furniture supplier—it's a strategic workspace partner. Here's what sets them apart: From design consultation to delivery and installation, Meet&Co covers every step of the office furnishing process. They understand cultural nuances and work requirements across different regions, making them ideal for multinational companies. Advanced manufacturing and a highly organized supply chain enable faster production and delivery. Clients receive dedicated managers to oversee their project from planning to post-installation support. Meet&Co's catalog is designed for modern functionality while maintaining professional aesthetics. Here's an in-depth look: Modern, sleek, and highly functional—these desks combine storage, wire management, and premium materials. Ideal for leadership offices. From task chairs to high-end executive seating, all chairs are ergonomic, BIFMA-certified, and available in mesh, leather, or fabric. Workstations Open-plan modular systems with privacy panels, cable management, and flexibility for team configurations. Available in various shapes (rectangular, boat-shaped, modular) with built-in power sockets and durable surfaces. First impressions matter. Meet&Co's reception units are modern, welcoming, and often customizable with branding. Lockable filing cabinets, credenzas, mobile pedestals, and shelving that blend seamlessly with office aesthetics. Office sofas, breakout seating, and coffee tables designed for comfort, collaboration, and informal meetings. Meet&Co understands that one size doesn't fit all. Their team of in-house designers collaborates with clients to create furniture that reflects a company's brand and culture. Custom options include: Desk shapes and sizes Materials and surface finishes Upholstery and chair configurations Storage layout and function Color matching with brand palettes They also offer 3D layout rendering services, enabling clients to visualize how furniture will fit into their floor plan. Meet&Co is committed to sustainable manufacturing, adhering to global environmental standards: Use of low-emission adhesives and finishes FSC-certified wood sourcing Waste reduction in production processes Eco-friendly packaging options Long product lifespans and recyclability For businesses prioritizing green offices, Meet&Co is an ideal partner aligned with LEED and WELL building certification goals. Meet&Co has shipped office furniture to businesses in the USA, Canada, Australia, UAE, UK, South Africa, and more. Multi-language support Documentation for customs Ocean and air freight options Regional warehousing partnerships After-sales service guarantees They work closely with B2B partners such as: Furniture resellers Interior design firms Facility management companies Corporate procurement teams 'Meet&Co provided full furnishing for our three-floor coworking space in Dubai. Their quality and turnaround time were exceptional.' — Hassan K., Project Manager, UrbanSpace MENA 'As a reseller in Canada, we trust Meet&Co for every bulk project. Their logistics, support, and consistency are unmatched.' — Lauren M., Founder, FurniBulk Canada 'We needed modern furniture for 120 employees. Meet&Co handled it from design to install and stayed under budget.' — Emilio R., Admin Head, TechEdge Europe Feature Meet&Co Other Wholesalers Global Shipping ✔ Yes ⚠ Varies by region Customization ✔ Extensive Options ⚠ Limited Design Consultation ✔ Included ❌ Often extra cost Sustainability Standards ✔ High (FSC, BIFMA) ⚠ Not always disclosed MOQ (Minimum Order Qty) ✔ Flexible ⚠ High minimums common Price Transparency ✔ Quotation system ⚠ Hidden fees possible Getting started with Meet&Co is straightforward: Browse the Catalog at Meet&Co's official website Submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) Consult with a Project Manager about your needs Receive 3D Layouts and Samples if needed Confirm Customizations and finalize pricing Production Begins (typically 15–30 days) Shipping & Installation Support provided After-Sales Support available globally Whether you're furnishing a startup office, equipping an enterprise HQ, or looking for a reliable B2B partner, Meet&Co Office Furniture Wholesaler delivers modern, functional, and beautifully designed solutions. With a commitment to quality, customization, global support, and sustainable practices, Meet&Co stands out as a true trusted partner for modern workspaces. Answer: MOQ depends on the product category, but Meet&Co is flexible for startups and small businesses. Answer: Yes. Meet&Co has shipped to over 100 countries with reliable freight partners. Answer: Yes. They offer free 3D layout and space planning services with every project. Answer: Typically 15–30 days for production and 10–25 days for shipping, depending on location. Answer: Products are BIFMA and ISO-certified, and wood materials are often FSC-approved. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Chicago Tribune
6 hours ago
- Chicago Tribune
Weber Grill Restaurant to be first tenant in Orland Park downtown development
Weber Grill Restaurant will open a location in Orland Park next year, becoming the first tenant announced for the village's downtown development project northwest of La Grange Road and 143rd Street. The company is owned by the same family that makes the grills, which are used to prepare meals at the restaurants. Weber Grill will build an 8,500-square-foot space at the southwest corner of La Grange and 142nd Street, said Ramzi Hassan, president of Edwards Realty Co. Orland Park-based Edwards was selected by the village to develop that has been called the Main Street Triangle project. 'This is exactly the type of tenant we envisioned when we first imagined downtown Orland Park,' Hassan said in a news release announcing the restaurant's plans. 'Weber Grill represents a high-quality, experience-driven restaurant that aligns perfectly with our vision to create a dynamic, walkable destination for the community.' Planned to open next spring, the restaurant will feature indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a hands-on cooking school offering both public and private cooking classes, according to Weber Grill Restaurants. The company also has restaurants in downtown Chicago and suburban locations in Lombard and Schaumburg. 'We're thrilled to bring the unique Weber Grill experience to the new downtown Orland Park,' Jon Crost, chief operating officer of Weber Grill Restaurants, said in a news release. 'This location allows us to connect with a vibrant and growing community while being part of a visionary redevelopment that emphasizes both quality and community.' Hassan said Friday that Weber 'is a really good brand that's a household name,' and its decision to open in Orland Park could attract other tenants. He said that Weber was looking to the Orland Park market for a restaurant, but 'they were more interested in the type of development they are joining.' 'They had to find the right fit,' Hassan said. He said Edwards has been very selective about the users and businesses coming in to the development, and said the Weber Grill Restaurant could be destination drawing customers from beyond the Orland Park area. 'It's not like they have 300 restaurants all over the country,' Hassan said. Edwards plans to develop more than 140,000 square feet of entertainment, retail and office space. No residential space is planned. An expansion of Crescent Park, to be renamed Heroes Park, is included, and what is now a stormwater detention pond in the northeast corner of the triangle would be enhanced with fountains. The company and village held a ceremonial groundbreaking for the downtown project in March. Edwards owns and operates Orland Park Crossing, a retail center northeast of La Grange and 143rd, directly to the east of the downtown development. The downtown development would be situated around the Ninety7Fifty on the Park apartments, University of Chicago Medicine Center for Advanced Care, a parking garage and the 143rd Street Metra station. Hassan said he expects Edwards to break ground in spring on space for a second tenant, which would be on a site west of La Grange on the south side of 142nd.
Miami Herald
7 hours ago
- Miami Herald
BBQ chain closes restaurants, changes focus from ribs to breasts
Fat Brands has become a shockingly large restaurant operator despite owning numbers brands with names that sound like eateries in a "Simpsons" episode or a Kevin Smith movie. The company started with Fatburger in 2003 before buying the also pretty literally named Buffalo's Cafe in 2011. From the burger and wing chain, it added the iconic (and perhaps outdated) Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouse chains in 2017, then added another wings concept, Hurricane Wings and Grill, in 2018. Related: Struggling restaurant chain likely to shut down or be sold Over the next few years the company bought Elevation Burger, Johnny Rockets, and Global Franchise Group which includes many names that don't sound real including Round Table Pizza, Great American Cookies, Marble Slab Creamery, Pretzlemaker, and Hot Dog on a Stick. That last deal gave Fat Brands a massive presence in malls. In 2021, however, the company entered that fast-casual space with purchase of Twin Peaks, a bar and restaurant chain that sort of a classier take on the model pioneered by Hooters. The company also picked up the Smokey Bones barbecue chain in 2023 from Darden Brands and, at the time, it was excited about the deal. Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter "We continue to be selective and opportunistic in our acquisition strategy, targeting brands that are both scalable and synergistic with our existing platform," said Rob Rosen, Co-CEO of Fat Brands said at the time. "We are pleased to add another polished dining brand, which will provide more options for our sales team to offer our franchise partners to further their new unit development." Image source: Shutterstock While the Fat Brands and Smokey Bones relationship started well, it took a turn for the worse earlier this year. The barbecue chain's owner shared some bad news for fans of the casual, sit-down barbecue brand. Fat Brands Chairman Andy Wiederhorn explained that the company often buys brands to use them to enhance a company they already own. "Our recent transactions have been highly strategic, creating multiple avenues for value creation. A prime example is our acquisition of Nestle Toll House Cafe by Chip about three years ago. This transaction was particularly compelling as it allowed us to convert these units to Great American Cookies locations, effectively growing our cookie footprint while simultaneously increasing production volume at our manufacturing facility," he said during the company's fourth-quarter earnings call. Wiederhorn views the Smokey Bones acquisition as a similar opportunity although that was not mentioned when the brand was purchased in 2023. More Food and Retail: Another healthy fast-food chain files Chapter 11 bankruptcyCostco quietly pulls popular product, upsets fansStarbucks brings back fan-favorite menu item after 2-year hiatus "We bought Smokey Bones in late 2023 to help fuel Twin Peaks' growth, which will allow us to convert about 30 of the Smokey Bones locations into Twin Peaks. This dual benefit illustrates our approach to acquisitions. We look for opportunities that not only expand our restaurant portfolio, but also drive incremental value through our manufacturing capabilities, essentially getting two bites at the apple," Fat Brands also shared during its earnings call that 30 of the remaining 58 Smokey Bones locations will be rebranded as Twin Peaks. Another nine Smokey Bones locations will close. While Fat Brands will maintain a roughly 85% stake in the new company, it has actually spun off Twin Peaks and the remains of the Smokey Bones chain into its own company. "Twin Hospitality now trades separately on the NASDAQ under the ticker TWNP. The public listing of Twin Hospitality creates an opportunity for shareholders to directly participate in the growth and success of the Twin Peaks brand. This strategic move enhances transparency and enables the market to better appreciate the distinct value of Twin Peaks," Wiederhorn said. Twin Peaks is a sports bar/breastaurant model where the waitresses wear low-cut outfits. The new company's executives also commented on the Smokey Bones conversions. "Our flexible real estate model has proven highly successful in converting legacy restaurants into Twin Peaks. These conversions enable faster time to market, lower buildout costs and accelerated return on investment," said CFO Ken Kuick.. Some of the conversions have already come online. "We have also made progress with our strategic plans to convert Smokey Bones into Twin Peaks. Our first Twin Peaks conversion, which opened in Lakeland, Florida last September, is exceeding expectations, while our second Twin Peaks conversion in Brandon, Florida opened this month and is off to a strong start. We project completing two additional conversions in 2025." Related: Popular BBQ chain closes almost all locations, no bankruptcy That means that Smokey Bones fans still have time to enjoy a 1-pound slab of ribs or some of the chain's other favorites. Most of the nine locations that are fully closing have already been closed. One location, which closed in late-April in order to become a Twin Peaks, reminded customers to use any Smokey Bones coupons before their local location shut down. The Arena Media Brands, LLC THESTREET is a registered trademark of TheStreet, Inc.
