US unemployment claims fall to 222,000, lowest in 44 years

WASHINGTON - The number of Americans collecting unemployment benefits fell last week to the lowest level in 44 years, another sign that most workers enjoy job security.  The Labor Department says claims for jobless aid dropped by 22,000 to 222,000, fewest since March 1973. The less volatile four-week average slid by 9,500 to 248,250, lowest since late August.  Unemployment claims are a proxy for layoffs. The low level suggests that employers are confident eno