With fear of the recession, gas prices skyrocketing and the housing market rapidly declining, one cannot help but question what will become of the construction workers.

Ten years ago, the construction industry was buzzing, and for those working in it, money was hardly an issue. But now in 2008, it seems as if the average construction worker’s income has suddenly come to an unwanted, frightening halt.

People are now unable to afford their luxurious comforts and are downgrading to smaller, more convenient homes. Housing sales are at a standstill, and there is absolutely no need for newer houses. The important roles that builders, construction cleaners, painters, roofers and other construction workers have played in our economy are hardly a necessity any more.

Many businesses have completely gone under, leaving hundreds of employees jobless and standing in line at local unemployment offices. There are still some that remain struggling with their construction businesses, but even those may not last long.

Many are "paying to work" as they spend all of their lowering wages on increased gas prices to get from one job site to another. They cannot provide for their families or their bills any longer and will eventually have to seek income elsewhere.

Where will they go? What will they do? How will they make it? What will become of our construction workers?

Kristen Tran

Chestatee High School student

I received sad news from my husband’s medical report recently, which floored me for a while. I go to the Gainesville-Hall County Senior Center three days a week. When the news reached the center, I was met with such love, compassion and encouragement, it was unbelievable.

Those wonderful people, my friends, were such a help to me. I want to thank each one and let them know how much it meant to me. There are too many to list here, but they will know who they are when they read this. I love them all, dearly.

Phoebe Vickers

Flowery Branch