With rising unemployment rates, Racine County's economy is an example of the challenges that we continue to face on a national and international basis. The need for innovation in business and industry, new partnerships for government and the private sector and the challenges presented by our manufacturing industry overall and the auto industry specifically are a concern for all of us.

While economic concerns will always be present, we at the Racine County Economic Development Corp. are asking the community to take a moment to recognize the need for partnerships to address our economic challenges and join us in celebrating our 26th anniversary. The event will be held at the Racine Marriott from 4:30-6 p.m. May 28.

As in previous events, we've tried to include the most relevant information on what's happening in the community. This year, our own Congressman Paul Ryan will join us and speak to the topic of "Forward: an Alternative Economic Agenda to Restore America's Promise and Prosperity."

In addition, RCEDC President Dan Pettit of the law firm Demark, Kolbe & Brodek will take a look at the year in review, as well as the RCEDC economic development program initiatives for 2009.

RCEDC Chairman Jim Beere, president of Pioneer Products Inc., will announce and present the community awards. These awards are presented to public and private sector individuals on RCEDC's board of directors who have made a special effort to improve our communities over the last year.

We are also very happy that Helen Johnson-Leipold, chairman and chief executive officer of Johnson Outdoors, will join us to present the Sam Johnson Volunteer of the Year Award. This award has been provided to individuals and organizations in the community since 1995 and recognizes special and unique efforts to improve our community. This year's recipient will be Jeff Neubauer, president of Kranz Inc. Jeff has been instrumental in the implementation of the Racine County Workforce Development Board's strategic plan, "Higher Expectations," as well as the Green Racine initiative.

Come early and stay late, but don't miss your chance to attend the RCEDC's 26th anniversary celebration. The meeting is open to the public and a great opportunity for networking.

You can reserve your complimentary registration today by e-mailing us at RCEDC@RacineCountyEDC.org or call (262) 898-7432. Seating is limited.

Gordy Kacala is the executive director of the Racine County Economic Development Corp.