Creighton University’s index of Midwest economic strength in nine Midwest and Plains states slipped to 57.5 in September, down from 61.1 the month before. That is still well into growth; anything above 50 is positive. Creighton economist Ernie Goss expects a business slowdown due to trade issues and rising interest rates, but he also predicts continued growth. The Mid-America Business Conditions Index survey of supply managers covers Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and South Dakota.