ECONOMIC OUTLOOK - 27th  Annual Edition 2009-2010 published by LSU, Department of Economics, authored by Loren C. Sctt, James A. Richardson, & M Dek Terrell, is "hot off the press".  This outlook provides statistics and data to support the conclusion that our local eocnomy is thriving. Here are some tidbits from this report.  "Baton Rouge:  Construction + Good Diversity = Solid GrowthIt states that "the Baton Rouge MSA has the largest concentration of chemical industry in Louisiana.  Because the petrochemical industry is very capital-intensive, when it expands, so does the industrial construction".  Other major factors are the location of the State Capitol, the two major state universities, LSU and Southern Universities, and one of Louisiana's largest commuity colleges. "The MSA's 2007 population of 770,037 was up 39,921 over July 2005, a 5.5% increase.  Forecast for 2009-2010 , the Baton Rouge region will add 2400 jobs and will follow that with an additional 6800 jobs in 2010". This report lists multiple industrial projects, infrastructure projects, commercial projects, and special projects, all bringing in mre new jobs.  More jobs mean more people will need housing.  All of this adds up to a healthy and solid situation for our local area.  The Baton Rouge Community keeps saying "we have decided not to participate in the national recession!"