Richardson gets it right on Chinese immersion

State Rep. Dennis Richardson (HD6 - Central Point) makes a strong case for increasing educational investment in Chinese immersion.

China is currently Oregon's #2 foreign customer, accounting for more than 1 percent of the state's GDP. In 2006, there was a 73% increase in demand for Oregon goods.

It is absolutely critical for the Oregon's long-term economic growth that we continue to aggressively pursue markets in China for technology, agriculture, and other Oregon products and commodities.

At the same time we are investing in education, we must be re-invest in Oregon infrastructure -- renewable energy, rail, telecommunications, aviation, and roads -- so that future generations will be able to better compete with the Chinese.