5/17/2007 - Kiplinger's Names Portland a Top City for Creative People
The region's thriving creative economy is highlighted among 25 U.S.
cities

From the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development, Office of Business Development, 59 State House Station, Augusta, ME| 04330


AUGUSTA, Maine Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine has recognized
Portland as one of the country's "best cities" for creative individuals,
citing the city's arts and business communities for generating creative
energy that attracts mid level professionals to the scenic peninsula.

The June 2007 issue highlights five U.S. cities in five different
categories, including young singles, mid level professionals, married with
kids, empty nesters and retirees. Portland is featured first in the
mid level professional category, along with Huntsville, Ala.; Boise, Idaho;
Kansas City, Missouri and Fayetteville, N.C.

"This is a great honor for Portland and our creative economy," said Governor
John E. Baldacci. "Our work force is comprised of innovative individuals who
contribute to Maine's economy and quality of life. We've always known that
Portland is a great place to live and work. The city deserves this
distinction."

Governor Baldacci released Maine's Creative Economy Community Handbook:
Maine State Government Resources for Communities and Maine's Creative
Economy: Connecting Creativity, Commerce & Community last year as part of
his initiative to expand the state's creative industries, create jobs and
strengthen Maine's economy.

Maine's creative economy includes artists, artisans, performers, architects,
software engineers, entrepreneurs, researchers and financiers, and comprises
8.3 percent of Maine's work force, or 67,446 people. They earn an average of
$48,557, which is 33 percent higher than the state average of $32,661,
according to a 2006 report on the state's creative economy, and in 2003,
Maine's arts and cultural sectors generated $1.5 billion in sales.

"The city of Portland should be proud of its success and its creative
entrepreneurs for gaining this national recognition," said state Department
of Economic and Community Development (DECD) Commissioner John Richardson.
"The city's success is indicative of the strides Maine has made in expanding
its creative economy throughout the state and in strengthening the state's
brand as a great place to live and do business."

Kiplinger's also highlighted Portland's Old Port district, the city's
restaurants, boutiques and pedestrian friendly downtown, and the area's
scenic views as top draws for creative professionals.

"We are proud of the recognition and appreciate the accolades," said
Portland City Manager Joseph E. Gray Jr. "Portland has worked hard to market
itself as a desirable location for businesses and entrepreneurs, and this
recognition reflects the quality people we have been able to attract to the
city."


http://www.kiplinger.com/features/archives/2007/04/citiesintro.html