This newsletter is sponsored by GTA. The items contained herein are published as submitted and are provided for general information purposes only. This information is not advice. Readers should not rely solely on this information, but should make their own inquiries before making any decisions. GTA works to maintain up-to-date information from reliable sources; however, no responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions or results of any actions based upon this information. If you have any questions regarding any of these items, contact the organizational representative of that source.

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Input from members of the business community is needed to help determine the feasibility of opening a branch or satellite skills center campus for high school students in the Columbia River Gorge Region.

Washington State's Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction provided funding statewide to determine the feasibility of opening branch or satellite skills center campuses in new areas. These studies will be reported to the legislature with potential training programs and capital funding needs identified.  As part of the study, a survey has been developed to gather information about the needs and wants of stakeholders living in the region. The input received will determine if having a skills center is a reasonable and possible option for high school students in the Gorge. 

Click here to access the  survey and provide your input. For questions, contact Wendy Niehaus at wendy.niehaus@esd112.org or  1-360-750-7514.

When: Tues, March 10, 5:30 - 7:30pm
Where: White Buffalo, 4040 Westcliff Drive, Hood River
Keynote Speaker: "Establishing a Wellness Culture in Your Business", Barbara Robinson, Director, Center for Mind and Body Medicine, MCMC

PubTalkT is an informal event that provides ample time for networking before the program. Typically, two early stage companies present 10 minute pitches to the audience directly after the keynote speaker. These companies are most commonly seeking advisors or capital investment. As well-seasoned executives, keynote speakers provide advice and guidance related to many of the issues, challenges, and opportunities entrepreneurs will face along the path to success.

For more information contact Bill Fashing, Hood River County Office of Economic Development, 541-387-6863, bill.fashing@co.hood-river.or.us
 
The Hood River PubTalkT is an event of the Hood River County Office of Economic Development in cooperation with the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network. Event Sponsors include the Hood River County Chamber of Commerce, The Small Business Development Center and the Mid-Columbia Economic Development District.

When: March 14, 10am to 2pm
Where: The Dalles Civic Auditorium (323 E. 4th St, The Dalles)

The 7th Annual Columbia Gorge Job Fair will connect attendees with career opportunities, résumé writing resources, education and training providers. Meet face-to-face with local businesses representing healthcare, transportation, manufacturing, recreation, forestry support, hospitality, grocery sales, retail and construction industries. Be sure to visit the tech-focused GTA section of the fair! Attendees should bring their résumés, dress professionally and be prepared for an interview.

For more information contact:

Local Options for Financing Your Business

If you are a lender interested in being involved or for other questions, contact Jessica Metta (541-296-2266 or Jessica@crgta.org).

When: May 19, 7:30am to 2pm
Where: Hood River Inn, 1108 E Marina Way

Applications are being accepted through March 27, 2009 for companies interested in competing for funding at the 2009 Gorge Angel Conference. Hood River County Economic Development and the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network are urging angel-ready companies to apply. GAIN II LLC will invest an estimated $100,000 grand prize in the company they judge to be the best overall angel investment opportunity.

You can also register today for this exciting event! Or become a sponsor and receive advertising space in the conference program.

To download an application, register or learn more, visit www.GorgeAngelConference.com or email info@gorgeangelconference.com.

Washington's Innovation Summit (formerly the Washington State Technology Summit) is Washington Technology Center's primary annual event and Washington's premier conference dedicated to industry growth in the state. This conference and networking event brings together technology leaders from across Washington State to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in emerging technology industries. Washington's Innovation Summit examines strategies and tactics that Washington's technology industry and economic development leaders can use to position our state at the forefront of technology innovation. The conference includes both plenary sessions and targeted industry tracks.

Visit the event's website by clicking here to learn more or register today (early bird rate until March 6).