News release, Dec. 15, 2004A

Dec. 15, 2004 ............................................................................... FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Labor department will help laid-off workers at Springs Industries in Ellijay
ATLANTA State Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond said today that the Georgia Department of Labor will provide assistance to employees expected to lose their jobs at Springs Industries in Gilmer County.
Company officials have notified the labor department that the company plans to close its manufacturing facility at 449 Industrial Blvd. in Ellijay on Feb. 1, 2005. About 190 employees, who manufacture accent rugs, will be affected.
"The layoff at Springs Industries creates a difficult situation for the workers and their families and for the Ellijay and Gilmer County communities," said Thurmond. "I want them to know that they are not alone in dealing with the problem. We are prepared to assist them.
"Our staff will work with the employer and the community to determine how we can best assist the affected employees," the commissioner continued. "We will help the employees file claims for unemployment insurance and give them access to services designed to get them back to work as quickly as possible. We will also assist workers who need additional skills to find appropriate training."
The Georgia Department of Labor conducts job search workshops, career counseling, and provides resource centers in each office. Some job seekers may also be eligible for occupational/skills training, on-the-job training, GED preparation and testing, and supportive services such as child-care assistance, transportation assistance and meals while enrolled in fulltime school training. The area is served by the Georgia Department of Labor's Blue Ridge Career Center at 1048 Appalachian Highway in Blue Ridge. The office telephone number is (706) 632-2033.
The career center provides job seekers and employers with a wealth of new information and resource services, modern technology, and a customer-focused, state-of-the-art business environment. The Georgia Department of Labor has enhanced its services to customers with the development of a new and improved web site. The on-line resource gives information on the various services and programs operated by the labor department and other Georgia workforce partners. Additionally, the web site helps equip workers and new entrants into the job market with the tools and information needed to evaluate career options, prepare for work, and find the right job. It also provides employers with an abundance of workforce-related information. The site may be accessed at www.dol.state.ga.us.
NEWS MEDIA NEEDING MORE INFORMATION MAY CALL (404) 232-3685 FY-04-715