FUTURE LOOMS AS BLEAK PERIOD TO MACHINIST.

Byline: Luz Villarreal Daily News Staff Writer

As far as Canuto "Junior" Garcia is concerned, the recession is still in full swing and isn't going to end any time soon.

Garcia, 41, lost his job of 22 years in May. He was a machine operator making $13.20 an hour for a North Hollywood converting and printing company and planned to work there until he retired.

"I used to always read about (people losing their jobs) and never thought it would happen to me, until, boom!" he said. "When I started to look for work, that's when I realized how bad it was. There were jobs but at $5 and $6 an hour. I would have to get three jobs to make up for what I lost. I get frustrated the more and more I look."

The turn of events in Garcia's life have bittered his political outlook for 1996. A registered voter, Garcia always paid attention to political commercials. He would read articles on political races and followed state initiatives. He voted with enthusiasm. This year is different.

"I'm going to vote, but I'm more discouraged than ever before," he said. "I look at everything totally different, not with a positive attitude, that's for sure. I'm not accustomed to that."

Four years ago, the recession was the farthest thing from Garcia's mind. He was happy, receiving a paycheck every Friday and enthusiastically following the presidential race.

The only thing on his mind today is finding a secure job he can support his family with and retire from. He's found a lower-paying seasonal job in merchandising, but the contract will run out in June.

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Photo Canuto Garcia Unexcited by candidates