“I am looking forward to showing Mr. Garza -- in person -- the impact the Economic Development Administration's investments in the Fourth District have made,” said Ross. “But equally important, I want Mr. Garza to see, first-hand, how important the investment in future Fourth District projects is to creating economic opportunities and jobs for our working families.”
The Economic Development Administration is divided into six regions across the country. Mr. Garza’s jurisdiction includes Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico. 
“The fact that he represents such a large area makes his visit to the Fourth District especially significant - it proves he is committed to promoting and ensuring the economic development of our district,” said Ross.
“When I was elected to serve the citizens of Arkansas's Fourth District, I promised I would be a ‘hands-on’ congressman, and an economic ambassador for our district.  Mr. Garza’s trip is just another important step I have initiated to fulfill that pledge. I am looking forward to continuing my commitment to try and create economic opportunities for our district.”

Following is the current schedule for Congressman Ross and Director Garza’s tour.  Please note this schedule is subject to change. 

**MEDIA: Please contact Chris Masingill at 501.350.9463 for updated site and location information during the tour.  

Thursday, Jan. 15 -- 

12:00 - 1:00PM:  Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce Board of Director's Luncheon
   Location: Hot Springs, Austin Hotel

1:00 - 1:30PM:     Project presentations by the Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce and the National Park Service
Location:  Hot Springs, Austin Hotel

1:30 - 2:30PM:  Tour/site visit: Hot Springs National Park Bathhouse 
   Location: Hot Springs Bathhouse Row

3:00 - 3:45PM:  Community Leaders Reception/ tour of
Arkadelphia Civic Complex
   Location: Arkadelphia Civic Complex, Arkadelphia

5:15 - 6:30PM   Presentation and Site tour:  Southern Arkansas University Air Frame and Power Plant School
   Location: Texarkana Regional Airport, Texarkana, Ark.
 

Friday, January 16th - 

9:00 - 10:00AM  Community Leaders Coffee and Project Presentation by the Magnolia Economic Development Corporation 
Location: SE Ark Development District Office, Magnolia

10:15 - 10:30AM  Site visit: Columbia Industrial Park 
   Location: Hwy. 82, Magnolia
   
12:00 - 12:30PM  Site visit: Warren Industrial Park and H&L Poultry De-boning Facility 
   Location: Warren

12:40 - 1:30PM  Lunch/Project Presentation: Southeast Arkansas Intermodal Facility and the Water Pretreatment Facility
   Location: Warren
    
2:30 - 3:15PM  Community Leaders Reception and Farmers Market Project Presentation 
Location: SE Ark. Development District Office, Pine Bluff

 3:25 - 3:45PM  Site tour: Farmers Market Proposed Location
    Location: Pine Bluff