First of all, I would like to recognize Brian Cole for his dedicated service to OEDA in the role of Executive Director since November 2004. Brian was responsible for positioning our organization as the statewide leader in economic development professional training with the launch of the successful Back-to-Business Annual Conference series as well as the Spring and Summer training seminars.

I want assure each of our organization’s members that in 2007 OEDA will be moving forward with numerous activities including the Educational Training Series 2007 despite the resignation of Brian Cole as staff. Activities and initiatives include (but are not limited to):

• OEDA Legislative Day, February 7th in Salem (Steve Vincent, OEDA Past President, will be sending out a detailed email later today to all members)
• Continuation of the OEDA Earned Media Campaign managed by Krista Hildebrand (now with the Frause Group)
• Improvements to the Oregon Prospector website, made through a U.S. Department of Agriculture RBOG grant
• Marketing of Oregon for business at selective trade shows and events outside of the state (next up is the Medical Design & Manufacturing trade show in Anaheim, CA February 11-15)
• Our first Educational Seminar will take place in Troutdale on Tuesday April 10 (more details to come soon)

We appreciate your continued membership in and support of our organization. On behalf of the entire OEDA Board, we look forward to working with each of your organizations in 2007. In the meantime, if you have any questions about our organization or activities feel free to call or email.

Sincerely,
Colin Sears, President
Oregon Economic Development Association

Economic Development Manager
Portland Development Commission
222 NW 5th Ave
Portland, OR 97209-3859
searsc@pdc.us
Phone:(503) 823-3320
Fax:(503) 865-3783