If you're reading this, it means the SCD+IC online community successfully launched--all ancient folklore, unlucky superstition, and black cats notwithstanding.

On Friday the 13th, February 2009, the Santa Cruz Design and Innovation Center proudly launched the souped-up version of their online portal. It got a new look (thanks to Studio Holladay), lots of new resources, plus it comes equipped with an online community for local designers (thanks to Quiddities).

Now you can create a profile, connect with other designers, and share information through our site. It will be super-easy to hire the talent you need, locate employers who need you, and make friends across related industries. And maybe, hopefully, if we're lucky, we'll help grease the gears of our local economy and get things going even faster.

You can sign up for free on the website. Here are the benefits of becoming a member:

• Make more connections, faster and more meaningfully. (It's all about who you know, right?)
• Be a part of a growing design community in Santa Cruz.
• Stay updated with our monthly newsletter, and read about design events and news.

Want more? Okay, we don't blame you. For a meager $12 a month, you can upgrade to Member Plus, and get even more cool stuff:

• Publicity for your service in our member community.
• Member photo will display on site.
• Image space for your portfolio shots.
• Member blog, where you talk about the awesome stuff you're working on.
• Link to your website.
• Special mention at design events.
• Discounts on event tickets.

After you get your membership, don't forget to check out the rest of the site for resources, groups, event photos, and other goodies. Sign up for our newsletter, or check back often for updates. We'll see you around Santa Cruz!