Yet, as part of that discussion, we also confront the difficult issues that cloud our future. Clearly, reducing Rhode Island s punishing personal income tax is high on our list of priorities in 2000. Other issues on the horizon this year include working with the various public and private sector groups that are striving to make Providence a destination city from a business, tourist and conventioneer's point of view. Certainly, Barnaby Evans' mystical and captivating Water Fire art installation has drawn attention to our community in ways that many of us never dreamed possible. The business community is also knee-deep in the challenge of public education.
Health care is another area of concern.
Providers, insurers and employers are all encountering extreme fiscal pressure. The Chamber has made great inroads on these and other issues during the past five years. All of us are eager to press forward in 2000 to build on that progress. I thank you for the vote of confidence.