These are certainly tumultuous times for the Maine and US economies. Former State Economist and current President of the Maine Development Foundation, Laurie Lachance, who has been analyzing and forecasting Maine's economic performance for 25 years, shares her perspective on the current economic downturn, how it compares to other recessionary periods, and what we need to do as a state to position ourselves to survive the current situation and to thrive in the longer term. Iterations of this speech have been presented to the following organizations: Thomas College Leadership Institute, Skowhegan Savings Bank, Bangor Region Leadership Institute, Husson University Business Breakfast, Piscataquis County Economic Development Council, Maine Real Estate and Developers Association, Preti’s Professional Women’s Association, Maine Grocers Association, Belfast Area Chamber of Commerce, Kennebunk Savings Bank Luncheon, and the Augusta Kiwanis Club.