I am writing in support of state Rep. Paul Gilbert, House District 87, representing Chesterville, Jay, Mercer, New Sharon and Starks.

As a displaced worker from Wausau Paper in Jay, I came to appreciate Rep. Gilbert’s efforts in pushing for the construction of a CareerCenter in Wilton in 1999. Wilton was the only Maine municipality to get a new CareerCenter.

Due to his foresight, upon losing my job of 20 years, I was able to access the services the CareerCenter offered. With the CareerCenter’s help, I am pursuing a two-year degree that will allow me to re-enter the work force.

Some of my co-workers were also given the training and skills required to enter today’s challenging job market.

Rich Harvell, Jay