Transportation is important. It provides links to jobs, offers businesses a link to customers and enhances movement of commercial and agricultural products. Centreville, for example, has a prime opportunity to attract new industry and the development of better transportation is one of its finest marketing tools. Howard Industries in Laurel depends on transportation for moving its products. And, the development of the air cargo terminals at the Jackson International Airport will have positive ramifications for everyone.
Education is essential for rural America.
The gap has closed but we must remain focused on making our schools better. The Information Highway is being globally mapped. Our schools must be wired and ready to compete. I have set the goal of helping make every school in the 4 th Congressional District wired by 2006. Over a five-day period I will hold town hall meetings in Mendenhall, Prentiss, Collins, Ellisville, Columbia, Monticello, Tylertown, McComb, Hazlehurst, Meadville, Brookhaven, Liberty, Woodville, Natchez and Raymond.