Understanding the complex factors that affect the economy can be difficult.

To help people navigate, Western Washington University economist James McCafferty and financial planner Tyrel Lacey are offering a free educational event focused on the current economic outlook and how to plan for the future. Learn about how the trade war affects us right here in Washington, where the economy might be headed and how to position both a financial plan and investments during these times.

The discussion will be Tuesday, Oct. 22, at Create Space, 723 Camano Ave., Langley. It will run two times, 10-11:30 a.m. and 6-7:30 p.m.

Space is limited. To reserve a seat, contact Heather Pearson at heather@mainspringwa.com or call 360-341-1415. RSVP by Oct. 21.

McCafferty serves as co-director for Western Washington University’s Center for Economic and Business Research. In this role he seeks to broaden the connections between the university, the College of Business and Economics and the real world – businesses, nonprofits and government agencies – through student internships, classroom based projects and consultative projects drawing on faculty, staff and students, according to a press release.