Message From The Chair        2011 has been a fast and productive ride for me and your economic development foundation.  The annual economic benchmarks are included in this issue that now contain nine years of data and trends on the local economy.    Those positive trends are strengthened by the phenomenal growth of our local medical industry.  Our Oct. 18 quarterly board and membership luncheon included a presentation on the local medical boom by Tom Stellman, a well-known strategist in the United States.  Membership in the Foundation is up an astounding 60% this year, so kudos are in order for our membership chair, Founding EDF Chairman John Lovett.   Way to go, John!  New entrepreneurs got a welcome addition locally with the new Small Business Development Center, officially opening downtown on October 3, 2011.  The majority of all jobs are created by these businesses and we need to nurture them.  And, speaking of jobs, the Mayor’s 6th Economic Development Summit was held Oct. 26 and partnerships were stated as a strong point for our community.  Your Foundation will participate in helping create an updated comprehensive economic development strategy and vision beginning early next year.  Next year?   It’s right around the corner and our annual meeting is set for February 14 at  the McKenna Events Center.  Elections for board members and officers will take place that day and we are planning to have another full house via the presentation of timely issues to the Foundation membership.  I am thankful for my year as Foundation Chairman and appreciate greatly your support for our efforts on your behalf.  Our membership goal in 2012 is to reach the century mark…….all we need is you!  Carlos Campos, MD Chairman