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It would appear that we're in for a bit of a rough ride. Despite minor job gains last month across the country, Ontario has lost thousands of manufacturing jobs this year - with the auto industry the hardest hit - and our economy is starting to feel the pinch after the collapse of several U.S. financial institutions sent a ripple of economic slowdown across the globe.

Monday, the TSX took a nose dive - the biggest drop in eight years - after the U.S. House of Representatives said no to a $700 billion bailout plan for Wall Street. That same day, Ontario Finance Minister Dwight Duncan released information showing slow growth in the province's second quarter, casting a bleak economic outlook over what was once considered Canada's powerhouse province.

The 'R' word dangles from the tips of tongues on Bay Street, and politicians trade barbs over who's dragging us down as they offer promises about who will get us back on our feet.

The economy around us may be going to pot, but locally, October will be the month for job hunters.

It's difficult to remain optimistic with all the negative economic news, but those looking for work should not be discouraged. Opportunity may come knocking for the unemployed in Etobicoke with several major job fairs set to arrive in the coming weeks. What better time to update your resume, brush up your interview skills and head out with positive results in mind?

If you're looking to start a new business, the Business, Franchise and Investment Expo may be the event for you, at the Toronto Congress Centre, 650 Dixon Rd. Friday, Oct. 3 and Saturday, Oct. 4 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Talk to leading industry experts and learn about hundreds of new business opportunities.

The Community Connections Job Fair will be held at the Etobicoke Civic Centre, 399 The West Mall, on Friday, Oct. 17 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Companies represented there will include Compass Group Canada, the Canadian Forces, Delta Chelsea, HMV Canada Inc., Investors Group, Loblaw Companies, the Toronto District School Board and many others.

Job hunters can also head to the Adventa Job Fair and Career Expo at the International Centre, 6900 Airport Rd. on Wednesday, Oct. 22 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

If you're searching for employment, this month is your chance to defy the odds. Lady luck may not favour our general economic forecast, but she may be feeling generous with our locally unemployed. What have you got to lose?