*Media Advisory* Local Crime and Business Cycles

WHAT: A new report from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis looks at local business cycles in 23 major cities, including St. Louis, and how they influence crime rates. Presenting their findings will be St. Louis Fed economist Thomas A. Garret and senior research associate Lesli S. Ott.

WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 29
9 a.m. to Noon

WHERE: Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis
Broadway and Locust Streets
Downtown St. Louis

WHY: In light of current economic conditions, especially the foreclosure crisis, concern regarding crime has been heightened as the glut of vacant, lender-owned homes grows.

After the presentation, a panel of local experts will discuss the report's implications for the St. Louis area:

• Gina Ryan, executive director, St. Louis Association of Community Organizations
• Charles Byrson, director of public safety, City of St. Louis
• James Gilsinan, professor of public policy studies, St. Louis University
• Joe Thele, program manager, St. Louis Neighborhood Stabilization Team
• Colonel Jerry Lee, chief of police, St. Louis County Police Department
• Kitty Ratcliffe, president, St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission

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