The Continuing Crisis

Editor’s Note: “The Continuing Crisis” is a section of APAC News which links to news pertinent to the State budget crisis as it affects the University and Academic Professionals.

In a February interview with Politico, Gov. Brian Schweitzer (D-MT) said that it's wrong for politicians to blame public workers for their states' budget deficits. The governor said politicians who "aren't any good with money" shouldn't “demagogue and blame the people that actually do the work.” See POLITICO interview: Gov.

EXPECT MORE patients at the Medical Center: A new study shows the potentially devastating effect that the budget proposed by the House of Representatives in Washington, DC, would have on the neediest in Illinois. See the March 1 Progress Report Illinois' Sick, Poor, And Children Get Hit In House GOP Budget.

BUSTED BUDGETS used as excuse for class war. See March 4 Gazette Busted budgets used as excuse for class war.

ILLINOIS’ LONG-TERM pension debt experienced a sharp increase last year. See Progress Report, March 4: State's Pension Debt Jumps.

U OF I Board of Trustees Chairman Christopher Kennedy delivered compelling remarks to a packed audience at the City Club of Chicago, a non-profit, non-partisan organization whose members include prominent business, civic and government leaders in the city. Kennedy highlighted the University’s unique role in Chicago and in the State as a proven, sustainable economic engine. Kennedy argued that perhaps "the only perpetual job creation activity a government can engage in is funding academic research institutions ... like the University of Illinois." To see Kennedy's address, go to Chris Kennedy - President, Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc. 03-01-11.

PRESIDENT MICHAEL Hogan made a strong case for University support when he appeared before the State Senate Appropriations Committee. A summary of his testimony appears on the President's website, Legislative Testimony Update.

ECONOMY BAD to both public- and private-sector workers, says March 15 Washington Post. See The economy has been bad to both public and private-sector workers.

ILLINOIS PENSION crisis eludes easy solutions, said the Wall Street Journal on March 16. See Illinois Pension Crisis Eludes Easy Solutions.