AROUND THE NATION: Economy added 678,000 jobs in February

Staff Report

Pizza restaurant owner G.j. Salpoglou hangs a help wanted sign.

Economy added 678,000 jobs in February

Employers added some 678,000 jobs in February, representing the most since last summer, as COVID-19’s omicron variant faded.

According to the Labor Department, the unemployment rate fell from 4 percent to 3.8 percent.

Economists had estimated that 400,000 would be added over the month.

Tornado causes damage

Seven people were killed when a tornado swept through Iowa.

The National Weather Service said at least three thunderstorms producing tornadoes had rolled through the area, but the exact number of tornadoes had not been determined.

According to local reports, it damaged buildings and downed trees and power lines.

Thousands lost power in Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana, and Iowa.

An Iditarod dog team arrives at a checkpoint in Huslia, Alaska, during the famous race.

Iditarod race held in Alaska

Dogs, mushers, and fans gathered in the Anchorage downtown area for the start of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.

Last year's ceremonial start was canceled due to the pandemic.

This year's event was the 50th running.