Southern Business Development Magazine reported recently that the business climate in Arkansas is now ranked "No. 1".

Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee said: "This No. 1 ranking validates what we've known all along - that Arkansas is a natural for business. Leading companies such as Nestle, Raytheon, Scholastic, McKee Foods, and Whirlpool have made major job creation announcements. Those announcements have sent a positive message about our state to business leaders worldwide. It's exciting to see others taking notice of the positive things happening in Arkansas."

Those of you who have been subscribers to the Ozarks Update will know that we've been saying it a long time - the fresh air undiscovered state of Arkansas is beginning to be noticed. How long can our low low land prices last - wouldn't it be smart to buy your vacation/retirement or Ozark Mountain investment property right now?

When available, our low interest SunSpring Installment Loans make it possible for anyone anywhere to own a beautiful piece of the natural state...

In explaining how Arkansas rated Number 1 status, the Magazine said: "Arkansas led all Southern states with a cumulative total of plus 22.3 points." In contrast, California, ranked on the same scale, came in at minus 66.7 points - about 88 points lower!

The Villager Journal of January 1-7, 2003 reports: "Perhaps most gratifying about this recognition (of Arkansas) is that it is based on current facts, not opinions or surveys or history," says Jim Pickens, director for the Arkansas Department of Economic Development. "With each passing day, Arkansas is showing up more prominently on the radar screens of those who make decisions about where to expand or locate businesses. We are steadfast in our assertion that once decision-makers look at Arkansas, our state and dynamic workforce will sell themselves. I believe the numbers prove that to be true."