Richmond Times-Dispatch, Va., Workforce Column.

Byline: Christine Chmura

Oct. 20--Just two months ago I was asked to title a presentation about the economy, "Why it Doesn't Feel Like the Recession is Over?"

The quick answer is "lack of job growth."

The national recession that began in March 2001 officially ended eight months later in November.

During those eight months, the nation shed 2.8 million jobs or 2.1 percent of all civilian employment, while Virginia lost 72,636 jobs or 2 percent of its work force.

Although the recession has been over for nearly two years, in September the nation recorded its first monthly employment gain since January.

Through September, the …