As OEDA President Colin Sears is just returning from Germany from the Medica Tradeshow along with many other Oregonians, I thought I would fill in this month.

I would simply like to highlight several current opportunities for you to benefit from your state association.

First, please review the legislative position papers on www.oeda.biz. This is the first time that OEDA has developed such a comprehensive set of papers, and I invite you to either advocate for the whole package, or select specific priorities and then meet with your state senator or state representative.

Second, plan to attend the Day at the Capitol on February 7.

Third, if you have a significant local business development success story, please let Krista Hildebrand, our public relations specialist, know. She may be able to spread the news about your community's success story.

Fourth, mark your calendars for April 10, July 23, and October 8-9 for OEDA's 2007 Economic Development Training Series.

Fifth, be expecting a phone call from OEDA over the winter to ask your thoughts about Oregon Prospector, how we can make it better, and how we can make sure that all of your best information is online.

Sixth, make it a regular practice to check out www.oeda.biz and www.iedconline.org for information about events, training, and other emerging issues and trends.

I wish you continued success.

Brian Cole, Executive Director