REGION

REGION
Manpower survey showssteady hiring forecast
WARREN -- Employers in the Youngstown-Warren area are expected to hire at a steady pace in the fourth quarter, said a survey by Manpower.
The hiring agency said 20 percent of companies interviewed plan to hire more employees from October to December, while 3 percent intend to make reductions. A year ago, 20 percent of employers expected to hire in the fourth quarter, but 7 percent intended to make cutbacks.
For the coming quarter, job prospects appear best in wholesale and retail trade and services, the survey said. Reduced staffing levels are expected in manufacturing, finance-insurance-real estate and education.
Learning about franchises
BOARDMAN -- The Entrepreneur's Source franchisees, including one in Boardman, are offering a three-day Ohio Franchise Showcase event. Sessions will be Tuesday in Cincinnati, Wednesday in Columbus and Thursday in Cleveland. Franchise companies will be attending. The free event is for anyone who wants to own their own business or learn more about such opportunities. Registration is available at www.OhioFranchiseShowcase.com. Kathie Barratt is the owner of the local Entrepreneur's Source franchise.
Low-interest loan seminar
LISBON -- The Community Action Agency will hold a free seminar for people interested in applying for a low-interest loan under the Microenterprise Program in Columbiana County. It will be at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the agency office, 7880 Lincoln Place. For information, call Marti Grimm at (330) 424-4013, Ext. 264.
Donna's Emporium opens
HUBBARD -- Donna's Emporium, a new store featuring gift items and collectibles, has opened at 809 N. Main St. David Hovis, the owner, said it has primitive, country, cottage and Christmas items. The store is named after his wife.
New Niles insurance office
NILES -- Kerry Fairbanks has opened an Allstate Insurance office at 1045 Youngstown-Warren Road. The Howland High School graduate is licensed to provide home, auto, life and business insurance.
BWC safety seminars
YOUNGSTOWN -- The Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation will offer its Safety Works For You seminar at Youngstown State University on Oct. 6, 13 and 20. Some of the areas that will be discussed are safety culture, Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards, ergonomics, hazard communication and electrical safety. The classes are free to employers. To register, go to ohiobwc.com.
From Vindicator staff reports