Ohio’s Rep. Zack Space understands the importance of 21st century Internet access and spreads the message whenever he can.  He certainly has been a friend to NextGenWeb through his commentary on our site and leadership on these issues in Congress.

TR Daily reports that earlier this week, while speaking to a gathering of telecom executives, Space boldly said:  “The future of rural America depends on the deployment of broadband service nationwide because it can bring employment, education and health care opportunities that wouldn’t exist otherwise.”

Rep. Space said broadband is the way to ensure that rural America can compete, since it expands both educational and employment choices for those living there.

“Broadband provides an opportunity to mitigate manifestations of poverty and unemployment,” Space continued.

We couldn’t agree more.  Today’s rural communities offer wonderful alternatives to urban and suburban lifestyles, in addition to being a critical element in feeding and fueling our nation.  It isn’t always easy to bring the latest technology to sparsely populated areas.  But it is a worthwhile objective.

That’s why we support policies that promote the development of broadband infrastructure everywhere – especially rural areas.  The benefits to education, employment and health care to name a few are just too important.

And mark your calendars:  NextGenWeb will be in Cincinnati on April 28 to live-stream the Democratic Leadership Council’s Congress Debates at 2 p.m. EST.  During this round, the participants will discuss the condition of health care in the United States.  Be sure to log back on to NextGenWeb on the 28th and check it out!