At about 4:00 a fire alarm sounded across the 5000 employee campus.  In keeping with procedure, the buildings were emptied of workers – within 3 minutes. 

The employees all gathered at their designated meeting areas, rolls were called, people accounted for.  A voice made an announcement over a loudspeaker that no one could see – it was like the voice came from the trees or clouds overhead.  In fact, it was the first time that a public address systems was ever used in the parking lots surrounding the buildings.

‘My dear colleagues.  It is with the sincerest of regret that I have been asked to announce that, for many of you, this will be your last evacuation drill with us.  Due to the on-going recession and poor business climate, the company is laying off 48% of staff, effective immediately.

When this announcement ends, please make your way back into the buildings.  If your swipe-card does not work, it indicates that you have been affected by this action and have been laid off.  As such, you will not be allowed back inside the building and all of your personal belongings will be couriered to you tomorrow.

The company has elected this communication method to ensure limited email activity with lay-off notices and farewell messages and to ensure an orderly change in company structure.

Thanks again to all of you for your great efforts this past year.

The Owners”