Not back to work yet

REGION — While we’re on that subject: In September, the New York State Department of Labor released its preliminary unemployment rates for August 2021. Statewide, the seasonally adjusted rate decreased from 7.6 percent in July to 7.4 percent in August.

Sullivan County beat the state with an unemployment rate of 5 percent.

In Pennsylvania, the Department of Labor and Industry reported a 6.4 percent preliminary unemployment rate for the entire state, a 7.1 percent rate for Wayne County and a 7.7 percent rate for Pike County.

What’s causing it? The Federal Reserve’s Beige Book suggests “increased turnover, early retirements (especially in health care), childcare needs [and] challenges in negotiating job offers.”

In some districts, the Fed added, work schedules were altered due to the delta variant of COVID-19.

On the upside—because you want good news too—”With persistent and extensive labor shortages, a number of districts reported an acceleration in wages, and most characterized wage growth as strong—including all of the midwestern and western regions. Several districts noted particularly brisk wage gains among lower-wage workers. Employers were reported to be using more frequent raises, bonuses, training, and flexible work arrangements to attract and retain workers.”

Wayne Bank’s Lancia earns financial marketing certification

HONESDALE, PA — Kristen E. Lancia, assistant vice president and marketing officer for Wayne Bank, was recently awarded the Certified Financial Marketing Professional (CFMP) certification from the American Bankers Association.

Wayne Bank President and Chief Executive Officer Lewis J. Critelli noted, “Earning the CFMP certification validates Kristen’s experience and depth of education in the bank marketing arena. We are so pleased to congratulate her on this admirable achievement.”

The CFMP certification is awarded to individuals who demonstrate excellence in the field of financial services marketing. To qualify for the CFMP certification, individuals must have certain levels of experience and education in the financial services marketing profession, pass an exam, and agree to abide by a code of ethics.

Lancia began her career with Wayne Bank in 2012. She earned a bachelor’s degree in design and merchandising from Drexel University. Lancia resides in Scranton with her husband, Ralph, and enjoys cooking, gardening, and spending time outdoors.

Wayne Bank is a subsidiary of Norwood Financial Corp., Member FDIC, and is located in Honesdale, Pennsylvania.

Job Fair October 12 in Monticello

MONTICELLO, NY — Looking for a new line of work?

The Center for Workforce Development is hosting a job fair on Tuesday, October 12, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the parking lot of the E.B. Crawford Public Library in Monticello.

Employers will be there, looking for workers. Professional attire is recommended, and attendees are asked to bring resumes.

For more information, contact the Center for Workforce Development at 845/807-0387.