Business memo 02/17/03

Nordenia searching for new president

Nordenia USA is searching for a replacement for president Paul Wiedlin, who left the company in December. The Germany-based packaging supplier, with its American plant in Jackson, employs more than 300 people.

Jim Ostergaard, director of human resources and information technology, is leading the plant during the search. Wiedlin was president for five years. Employees were told on Dec. 11 that the company had decided "not to retain the services of Paul Wiedlin as president and CEO," Ostergaard said.

Ostergaard said that they hoped to have a replacement as soon as possible.

Broussard's owner considers expansion

Broussard's owner Shawn Stockard has confirmed that his downtown Cape Girardeau restaurant is for sale, but he is taking his time finding a buyer.

"Anything is for sale at the right price, but I'm not in any hurry," he said.

Stockard declined to name his price but added that he's looking to expand his Cajun cuisine-themed eatery into Paducah, Ky., and Nashville, Tenn. He said he'd also consider leasing the local restaurant.

Baron Broussard opened the Cape Girardeau fixture in 1985. Stockard's father, Dennis Stockard, bought it in 1991. Shawn Stockard took over the business two and a half years ago. Broussard's also features live entertainment, a full bar, game room and American cuisine.

Top economists to share information at conference

Some of Missouri's top research economists will be sharing their knowledge and discussing economic growth at a one-day conference, sponsored by the Missouri Department of Economic Development, the University of Missouri's Department of Economics and Truman School of Public Affairs.

"Raising the Economic Speed Limit" is the theme of the conference, scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday in Jefferson City. It will be held in Room 490 in the Truman Building. The conference is free of charge, and registration is not required. The public is invited to attend.

The conference is meant to help participants understand what factors affect Missouri's economy and how to stimulate economic growth. Five sessions will cover topics such as the importance of geographic and technological proximity for research and development activities, education and the economy, entrepreneurship, tax rates and income migration among Missouri's work force.

For more information on the conference, call (573) 522-6261.

-- From staff reports