Charles Ballard, professor of economics at Michigan State University, will be the speaker at a League of Women Voters lunch meeting at noon Wednesday at Fernwood Botanical Garden, Niles.

The presentation,“Michigan’s Economy: Where Are We and Where Are We Going?” ties in with a League study on the privatization of government services. Ballard is the “go-to” guy on the Michigan and Midwest economy and is a much in -demand speaker. His degrees are from Princeton and Stanford, but Michigan is his home.

Cost of the lunch is $15. Call 695-6491 to make a reservation or stop by Fernwood, 13988 Range Line Rd., Niles.

The deadline for reservations is the close of business Friday.

Credit cards are accepted and the public is encouraged to attend. For more information, go to lwvbcc.org.