*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 Little Rock, 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: Thursday, Nov. 20, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

WHERE: Hilton Little Rock Metro Center
925 S. University Ave.
Little Rock

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 Little Rock area:

• Darryl Swinton, director of housing, Black Community Developers
• André Bernard, director of housing and neighborhood programs, City of Little Rock
• Terry Hastings, public affairs officer, City of Little Rock
• Dan O'Byrne, chief executive officer, Little Rock Convention and Visitor's Bureau (tentative)

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