Dismiss Employee

Letter #1:
As you know, Staple Press’s publication of Sunnyvale City’s art magazine has been funded by a renewable annual grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. Regrettably, recent cutbacks in federally sponsored city arts programs have not left us unscathed. Our grant having been discontinued, we have no alternative but to cease publication of City Artist. You have my assurance that the board has searched long and hard for some other viable funding, but every avenue of recourse has closed before us. Accordingly, June’s issue will be our last.

This change means the termination of employment for the entire magazine staff of writers, editors, and correspondents, including both full- and part-time employees. We ask you all to help see production of June’s issue through to press according to the existing schedule, with May 25 as your last work day. We will meet briefly as a group Monday morning, May 4, to discuss insurance and unemployment issues.

Anyone who has been involved with this project, including myself, knows that City Artist has meant far more to many of you than a mere job: it’s been a labor of love. I wish I could express how unhappy I am to find myself bearing such ill tidings. Please let me know how I can assist you as you seek new employment.

Letter #2:
As you are aware, the downturn in the economy has taken its toll on Staple Corporation. Consequently, our Sunnyvale office will lose five jobs. I am sorry to inform you that effective February 19, your position will be one of those five.

Recognizing that this will result in hardship to you, Staple will continue your salary for two months from that date, granting you time to find employment elsewhere. Other benefits available during this transition are outlined in the attached benefits summary. I will happily provide you with references should you need them. Best wishes.

Letter #3:
I regret that I must inform you that your position in Staple’s Marketing department has been terminated. Under the new ownership creative emphasis has shifted toward Research and Development of new products. As of February 28, the marketing department will be closed permanently and your services will no longer be required.

None of us is pleased to see this change, and I regret any hardship it causes you. Your final pay envelope will include two weeks’ severance pay plus a check reflecting 5 weeks’ unused vacation and sick leave. In addition, please look over the information on extension of health care and other benefits. The marketing team at Staple’s was a great one, and I have no trouble forecasting success as you seek a new position. Good luck. I will be pleased to provide references if you wish.

Letter #4:
Due to current reorganization efforts in the marketing division, Staple Corporation has recently begun a consolidation process to bring expenses in line with anticipated revenues. As a result, the Staple Corporation will commence a reduction in force.

If you chose to be a participant in this reduction in force activity, your employment with Staple Corporation will be terminated effective November 17. We would like to recognize your continued effort to the company and thank you for your past efforts.

I have asked John Staple in Human Resources to be available to answer any questions that you may have. John’s phone number is 650-5599. Again, we would like to thank you for your contribution and wish you the best in your future endeavors.