[Zikes]

I know exactly what you mean, there's a really strong anti-intellectualism that blankets this region. It's mostly in rural areas, but that accounts for probably 95% of the state's geography so they get to call all the shots unfortunately.

Also Arkansas is AR, AK is Alaska. A pretty common mistake, cousin ;D

[nickpsecurity]

Oops. I slip on those kind of things all the time haha. Yeah, the rural areas are dominating in that. I think the push will have to focus on how increased tech will bring more jobs to the area and maybe (ironically) increase their voice on politics. A way to stay in the loop, be heard, negotiate deals, whatever. Might be a decent selling point.

[Zikes]

It seems to be working in Texas. Dallas is such a technological hub now that Texas might actually become a blue state before long! It gives me hope for my area, at least.

[nickpsecurity]

I was thinking about Texas as I wrote that. They're the innovation leaders in the South. Another tactic of mine is appealing to the pride of local states by reminding them Texas is kicking their asses and they can't let that happen. So, we steal anything good they're doing without the... Texan stuff...

What you think? Competitiveness might help where other strategies failed?

Note: Texas has to factor into these discussions one way or another as they've shown how to get it done. I figure at least Nashville or Knoxville in TN could follow suite as they're already playing it smarter (err closer to Texas) than most of the South in IT. Chattanooga went 1Gbps, too. I'm not sure what cities are comparable in... AR... and MS.

[Greenisus]

Southaven MS was one of the first cities in America to offer public wireless internet service. Otherwise I can't think of a single good thing for tech to come out of that area.

[nickpsecurity]

I was over there just a week ago. Didnt know that about them. The thing they havd going is they're a miniMemphis with lots of growth and low cost of living. There's untapped potential there.