We are also providing tax incentives for technology-based businesses that locate in rural areas, and we have redefined the concept of infrastructure to include telecommunications, and allow cities to keep more of the money they would otherwise send to Olympia. Because we know that a robust telecommunications infrastructure is vital to the economic prosperity of Whatcom County. You all know that education is my number one priority, and it took a lot of restraint, today, for me to talk so much about borders and economic development. So let me say that it s imperative that we continue to work towards reforming and improving our education system. And it won t matter that VoiceStream, and 3rd Eye, and Attachmate are moving in and generating new family-wage jobs if our children aren t smart enough to fill the next round of job openings .
Education is society s great equalizer, and the economy s great energizer.
Please keep education as your number one priority. And keep up the great work in helping to make Washington a better place to live, to work, and to raise a family. Thank you very much.