CWU Hosts Fifth Annual Economic Outlook Conference

October 10, 2003

ELLENSBURG, Wash.-- Most experts seem to agree that the national economy appears to be on the rebound. But, the impacts of the rebound have been slower to emerge in Washington, particularly in the area of increased employment. The extent of recovery, and when, will be among the topics discussed at this year's Economic Outlook Conference at Central Washington University, presented by the College of Business (COB).

The fifth annual event will be held Tuesday, Oct. 28, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Samuelson Union Building on CWU's Ellensburg campus.

The conference provides a forum to address issues key to the economic vitality of central Washington, according to Dr. Roy Savoian, COB dean.

"Central's continued involvement with these emerging issues also helps us prepare our students for successful careers in what has recently been an uncertain regional economy," Savoian adds. "This year's conference will bring together a group of first-rate analysts who will share their expertise and perspectives with public- and private-sector managers as well as the campus community."

The conference speakers, all recognized experts, include:

• Dr. John Mitchell, of the Portland, Ore., based M & H Economic Consultants and Western Regional Economist for U.S. Bancorp, is a frequent commentator on the regional economy and regularly publishes analyses and forecasts about the Pacific Northwest. His presentation is titled "Climbing Out of Purgatory."
• Dr. Desmond O'Rourke, president of the economic consulting firm Belrose, Inc., will discuss the performance of the agriculture sector in a session titled "Prospect for Recovery in Washington Agriculture."
• And, Don Meseck, regional labor economist for the Washington State Employment Security Department, Labor Market and Economic Analysis Branch, who will present a current analysis during his discussion of "Central Washington Labor Market: Trends and Prospects."

During lunch a speaker panel will address question-and-answers, and Kent Christopher, manager of containers, will provide an update of developments at the Port of Seattle.

"In this rapidly changing time, we expect a wide variety of leaders - from agriculture to construction and education to economic development -- will find the conference to be particularly helpful," Savoian adds.

The cost for attending the program is $60 per person, which includes refreshments, lunch and a one-day campus parking permit.

Puget Sound Energy, Washington's largest investor-owned gas and electric utility, is the major sponsor of the Economic Outlook Conference. The Phoenix Economic Development Group and Washington State Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development are contributing sponsors.

For more information, visit the COB Web site at www.cwu.edu/~cob or call (509) 963-2933, or for the hearing impaired (TDD) 509-963-2143. To register, call (800) 752-4379.