U.S. Rep. Randy Forbes, R-Va., today released this open letter to citizens of Franklin and others affected by the planned closure of International Paper’s Franklin mill.

Dear Franklin Residents: This morning I received a phone call Mr. John Faraci, Chairman of the Board of Directors at International Paper, for the purpose of informing me of the planned closure of the Franklin International Paper mill.

In a community of 8,800 people the loss of 1,100 jobs can be described as nothing less than devastating. I am deeply saddened by this news and aware of the great anxiety and fearfulness that many are experiencing as they reflect on what the loss of these jobs will mean for their family and their community. There is no “quick fix” for news of this magnitude. I want you to know, however, that as your federal representative I will be there to support you and will use the tools at my disposal to assist the individuals, families, businesses and the overall community impacted by this news. Many of you know my District Representative, Rick Franklin, personally. Still others may remember working with him during the devastating floods of 1999 and 2006. Rick has over twenty years of experience in serving residents of the City of Franklin. He is skilled at addressing any issue involving the Federal government – from Social Security benefits to unemployment claims to assistance with grants or small business loans. As we have in the past, both Rick and I will stand with you as we work to rebuild after today’s difficult and saddening news. Here is Rick’s contact information: Mr. Rick Franklin Phone: (434) 634-5575 Through the years, the City of Franklin has endured difficult challenges. Every challenge has been marked by a season of loss. But each time that season has been eclipsed by the characteristic spirit of Franklin residents: hopeful, resilient, hard-working, smart and determined. Together, we will see this happen again.

Your partner and your representative, Randy Forbes Member of Congress