As we near the end of production on the second of three product lines here at the UAW-GM Powertrain plant, the realism of closure has become more evident. During this difficult period of adjustment and decision-making for all of the people working at the facility and their families, the most frequent question on the minds of our people is: Where will I be working next?

I'm very pleased to report that for some of our people the answer to that question is near, as a result of a partnership by the state Department of Labor, the One-Stop Career Center, General Motors, United Auto Workers and all the attending agencies providing a Jobs Fair/Career Day for all Massena Powertrain employees.

Dozens of employers, colleges and advisers to small businesses and veterans, along with representatives from organized labor were in attendance.

The GM leadership made this event convenient for all employees by hosting it on site throughout the day on May 1, providing and setting up two large rooms to accommodate over 40 organizations present. The Department of Labor, One-Stop Career Center and the UAW in a concerted effort did all the legwork to create so many opportunities to lessen the burden for so many people through this transition to make things less painful.

I'd like to extend my deepest appreciation to all of the attending agencies for taking the time out of all of your busy schedules to assist us in keeping so many families here in the north country.

Tony Arquiett

Massena

The writer is president of UAW Local 465.