Picking up the pieces

Losing a job is something almost everyone experiences at one time in the lives or another. But contrary to the old axiom, misery does not love company. For 137 employees at Curwood Packaging Ltd. in Georgetown, the new year began with the unwanted news that the company was closing down operations in March after 37 years on Armstrong Avenue. The decision was made at the plant's Wisconsin head office some time ago but workers were only told Jan. 25. Since then they have tried to make the most of a bad situation. What makes this closure hard to stomach is the fact many of those losing their jobs were longtime employees, some with more than 30 years service. Finding new employment for those at, or approaching, middle age will not be easy. However, according to union president Norm Beattie, the community has rallied around the Curwood employees. Local politicians, the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities and Federal Service Canada, among others, have offered what limited help they can. Mayor Rick Bonnette said the town would provide a room at the Mold-Masters SportsPlex to be used as a job adjustment Action Centre early in March. In the meantime Curwood workers are showing a steely resolve that they will "move on". We wish them all well in the future and hope the community keeps them in mind for any potential employment opportunities.