At long last, the end of mask mandates has been achieved. Not in all sectors, but most people will no longer be required to don the mask in most indoor spaces. Given the state of the world, the financial challenges in many government jurisdictions, and the trials and tribulations of the human condition, one would think we have put Armageddon behind us and have moved into the almost perfect society. “Free at last, free at last” to quote Dr Martin Luther King, Jr. Over the top? Absolutely, but given all the press concentration regarding wearing masks, including the demonstrations against mask mandates, the threats to some elected and non-elected officials, the “free our children from masks” protests and traffic disruptions by some truckers, the King quote seems fitting.
On this momentous occasion, I await dancing in the streets, unmasking parties, corporate celebrations and emotional breakdowns of thanksgiving. Attention now has been diverted, at least in the press, to real problems in the world like a rogue nation attempting to take over another country by means of violent force. This madness is occurring at the whim of a cruel despot, without regard to the human costs inflicted. Objections to mask mandates as a measure of freedom not only seems trivial but is an insult to actual freedom. Those of you who now feel “free”, can start concentrating on other mandated safety concerns. Just make sure you are the only one affected by your quest for freedom.
Moving on to less onerous topics, the annual Best Countries 2021 report is now available. It’s published every year, now in its sixth year, by U.S. News & World Report. It is a subjective report based on how global perceptions define countries in terms of a number of qualitative characteristics, impressions that have the potential to drive trade, travel and investment and directly affect national economies. It’s one of those “Best Of” surveys that provide talking points that support whatever idea a presenter is trying to emphasize. In other words, take it with a grain of salt.
The United States ranks sixth overall behind Canada, Japan, Germany, Switzerland and Australia. We rank number 1 in both Agility and Power according to the Methodology used for the rankings. Agility, a new sub-ranking in 2021, means the U.S. is adaptable, dynamic, modern, progressive and responsive. The power ranking says we’re a leader, economically influential with strong alliances and a strong military. Our worst part of the ranking is in the Open for Business arena. That accounts for almost 10 percent of the Methodology ranking. That includes cheap manufacturing costs, favorable tax environment, transparent government practices and not corrupt. We unenviably rank 45th in that category out of 78 nations.
Just for comparison purposes, China ranks 17th overall and Russia comes in at 24th. Ukraine is number 71 out of 78 with El Salvador at 77 and Iraq at 78. That’s the worldwide score. Whether you wear a mask or not, the U.S. seems to be the place to be.
The U.S. News also publishes a report that ranks all 50 states. Illinois was ranked number 30 overall. The highest ranking in the sub-categories came in education and opportunity at 11 and 12 respectively. Education is self-explanatory. Opportunity measures poverty, housing affordability and equality for women, minorities and people with disabilities. Illinois ranks 50th, last, in fiscal stability. This ranking track states’ government credit ratings, liquidity, pension fund liability and budget balancing. Illinois’ fiscal problems began long before our most recent governor.
One last thing…Joliet Mayor Bob O’Dekirk will present his State of the City address on March 9 at Harrah’s Joliet casino from 11;30 AM to 1 PM. The Joliet Chamber of Commerce is a sponsor for the event. Tickets are $35 for Chamber members and $45 for non-members. Joliet and Will County are currently stars in the Illinois economy based on the warehouse developments and overall job expansion.
Bring your mask, just in case.
Stay tuned…
Contact Wayne at www.thetimesweekly.com