The famous Hershey chocolate shop in Smiths Falls closes December 23rd, but many locals remain optimistic about the town's future.
When the candy giant announced it was moving operations to Mexico, there were demonstrations. The area's biggest employer, the Rideau Regional Centre, was already set to close. And Stanley Tools closed this summer.
All told, 1,700 jobs need to be replaced. And the economic triple-punch that staggered Smiths Falls now stings other Ontario communities.
"There isn't a day goes by that you don't hear on the news or in the print media of another community that's been faced with the decision of a plant leaving or a business closing," said Mayor Dennis Staples, who figures it's the equivalent of Ottawa losing 155,000 jobs.
But jobs can arrive as well as leave.
GH Metals is adding 50 to 75 new workers. And buyers are interested in both the Hershey factory and the Rideau Regional building.
"Well, I'm looking very forward to 2009 and it's going to be a good year and hopefully the economic situation will turn around," said one resident.
The mayor also remains hopeful.
"A number of people who have lost their jobs are finding other jobs in our area here in Smiths Falls or the surrounding area," Staples said. "Some are finding jobs in the Ottawa market and commuting and keeping their homes here, and we're trying to encourage people to be patient."
With a report from CTV Ottawa's Norman Fetterley
