In addition to these worthy undertakings, one must also be involved in bettering the community in a significant way. It is a tough nut to crack, but we are honoring 40 who found the energy and the desire to do it. Several years ago we began using independent judges in determining the winners of the annual Top 40 awards. We believe this adds an increased degree of independence to the selection process, and relieves me from having to make the gut-wrenching decisions on my on. We will gradually hand over the reins of leadership with no shortage of problems and opportunities for these youngsters to immerse themselves.
Poverty is still widespread in Mississippi.
Any comprehensive plan to move the state forward must address the problem of illiteracy. Our state, and the country as a whole, is plagued with a wounded health care system. We have the greatest health care system in the world, but it comes with a heavy price tag. In order to enjoy the benefits of our excellent health care system, we must find a way to pay for health care. At some point, we must decide whether access to health care is a right of citizenship or a commodity to be bought by those who can afford it.