Barkdale AFB could lose more than 600 jobs
By: ShaVonne Herndon
Updated: March 8, 2012
The finishing touches are going up at Sam's Eatery in Bossier City, a business is set to open Monday, just across the street from Barksdale Air Force Base.
"As you see there's a lot of traffic on Barksdale and across the street that's going to give us more business," said Wally Shihadeh.
Only for now, there's a possibility that in October more than 600 positions, including air reserve technicians, could be cut.
"In order to meet the requirement of the new strategic guidance as well as the requirements of the budget control act," explained Ann Stefanek, with the Air Force.
The reduction of A-10 squadron planes at Barksdale will help the government reduce spending by $487 billion in 10 years, tapping into barbers pockets right away.
"It's going to be a significant loss, but local business will still thrive," said Mark Thomas.
A lot of veterans here at "The Cut" enjoy the interaction and business Barksdale servicemen and employees bring them, but will continue to press on.
"Staying here, being strong and advertising and doing good work we will be alright," Thomas added.
Both businesses will depend on the community to make of the difference.
"We heard they are losing 600 jobs, but Bossier City is a big community and we're getting support from everywhere," Wally concluded.


