Vol. 6, December, 2008 In this issue: Economic Development News | Around the Region A Season for Giving Thanks 'Tis the season for giving thanks, so here is what GNO, Inc. is thankful for: A region that is defying the national downturn, adding tens of thousands of jobs while the rest of the country sheds them A political process that is delivering a new slate of talented, energized officials A business community that has taken ownership of economic development to a degree unseen in decades Economic assets, like six class-A railroads, that are unsurpassed anywhere in the country Regional diversity across 10 parishes that offers something for every company, and every family A program of educational reform that holds true promise for our poorest performing schools, while other schools continue to demonstrate local excellence Thousands of young and energized brain-gainers bringing their talent and determination to our region (congratulations to CNN Hero of the Year Liz McCartney!) The Hornets demonstrating that two professional sports are a slam-dunk for greater New Orleans Sporting and cultural events, like Prospect 1, that are broadcast around the world 70 degree weather in December For all of this, we say thanks. And for all of you who make it possible, we say thank you. Economic Development News GNO grows as hot spot for tech sector Full story... GNO Digital Media Alliance efforts begin Full story... State working to keep firms, LED creates business retention group Full story... State expects strong job growth in 2009 through business development and retention efforts Full story... Open for business: Retailers are finding a ripe market for expansion in the New Orleans region Full story... GNO jobs defy national trend Full story... Shifting Gears: Technical college system in state revs up work force Full story... Louisiana exports increase 58 percent in first nine months of 2008 Full story... Back to Top Around the Region Announcements and Events GNO, Inc. releases regional workforce analysis: Challenges, Assets, and Next Steps Full story... Feds announce $7.5M to train workers in GNO region Full story... LED awards $600,000 to entrepreneurship and business training providers Full story... Fed Ex Returns Operations to MSY Full story... New Orleans gets Final Four Full story... Ochsner listed among top 100 U.S cardiac hospitals Full story... GNO, Inc. announces staff promotions Full story... Do you have news or events that you would like to share in our upcoming editions? Let us know... Back to Top Jefferson Orleans Plaquemines St. Bernard St. Charles St. James St. John the Baptist St. Tammany Tangipahoa Washington 365 Canal Street, Suite 2300, New Orleans, LA 70130 Phone: 504.527.6900 Fax: 504.527.6970 www.gnoinc.org If you would like to start receiving our Region Report emails, click here To unsubscribe, click here