OMAHA, N.E.(WNAX)- Despite a small rise in the overall index, the economy in the nine state Mid America region appears to be stalling.

Creighton University economics professor Ernie Goss coordinates the monthly survey of business managers.

Goss says businesses are still facing challenges.

Goss says managers don’t have a lot of confidence in the economy right now.

Goss says job growth is continuing, but the pace of expansion is slowing.