New York Times (08/27/13) David Leonhardt

Experts attribute much of the decline in the unemployment rate to a decrease in the number of people in the labor force. A new report from the staffing firm Express Employment Professionals indicates that the labor force participation rate peaked more than 10 years ago. Experts are concerned about this decline because only a small portion of it can be attributed to baby-boomer retirements.

The skills gap may be partly responsible, but economists also cite weak economic growth during the last 13 years, including the 2000-01 dot-com bust, the 2007 financial crisis, and the lackluster recovery since. An increase in workers on disability also may be playing a role.

Analysts International Corp. News Release (08/28/13)

American CyberSystems Inc., a global information technology services company, and Analysts International Corp. today announced they have signed a definitive agreement under which ACS will acquire AIC in a transaction valued at approximately $35 million. Following the closing of the merger, AIC will become a privately held company, wholly owned by ACS. ACS plans to continue to operate the company under the AIC brand. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter.

NASDAQ (08/27/13) Cynthia Lin

Business activity in the central Atlantic region rose in August on gains in both the service and manufacturing sectors, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond. The Richmond Fed’s manufacturing index soared this month, rising to 14 from -11 in July. Readings above zero indicate expansion. Meanwhile, the employment index rose to 6 from 0 in July, and the employee-expectations index rose to 9 from 5.

Factories in other areas of the country showed signs of gradual growth this month, according to data from the Dallas and Kansas City Federal Reserve banks.