A Creighton University economist says the Midwestern economy is continuing its downward slide. After a slight upturn in October, Dr. Ernie Goss says Iowa’s economy is also slowing down.Goss and his team survey purchasing managers and business leaders in the nine-state region every month. He says the November numbers reflect the fourth drop in the past six months while the month ahead does -not- look like it’ll see much improvement.Dr. Goss says December is normally be a month where retail sales take a significant upturn, but he doesn’t think that’ll be evident this time around. He says companies that sell to retailers report not much buying as consumers pull back in the midst of layoffs.On the plus side, Goss says natural gas prices are half what they were a year ago. While many businesses are being forced to cut production and staff, he says the lower utility costs will be a positive factor for many Iowa employers, and of course, homeowners.mk