Notable economists to speak Friday at Southeast Missouri State University

Senior economic forecaster Dr. Ken Matheny with Macroeconomic Advisers will headline a free seminar, "Staying on Track in Tough Economic Times," Friday at Southeast Missouri State University.

The Center for Economic and Business Research and the Missouri Research Corporation are co-sponsoring the event that will feature regional, state and national speakers. The seminar will take place from 9 a.m. to noon in Glenn Auditorium in Dempster Hall.

"People will find out what's going on in the economy, how to go about economic development in such a tough environment and where we go from here," said seminar organizer Dr. Bruce Domazlicky, who also serves as director of the Center of Economic and Business Research. "The services of individuals at this conference, especially Dr. Matheny, are not cheap. Those who attend will have an opportunity to hear from individuals who are well-versed in their field and know what's happening in today's economy."

Domazlicky said Matheny will offer his opinion about the national economic climate.

As a senior economist with the St. Louis-based Macroeconomic Advisers, Matheny issues regular economic forecasts and offers advice to businessmen from throughout the United States and across the globe. Matheny also authors and edits various publications, including the Weekly Economic Commentary.

Offering his perspective on the state's and region's economic development challenges will be Dr. Marty Romitti, director of the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center. Romitti's organization is the research arm of the Missouri Department of Economic Development.

Addressing the local economic situation will be Ed Dust, economic developer for Sikeston, Mo., and Dan Gruen, city manager of Charleston, Mo.

A question-and-answer time will follow the presentations. For more information, call 651-2286 or e-mail gervin@semo.edu.

bblackwell@semissourian.com

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