(Chicago) ... In Illinois – which has a structural deficit estimated at $12.8 billion, among the highest foreclosure rates in the nation, and an infamous reputation for political shenanigans – voters are weary and wary. This fall, they have the opportunity to elect both a new U.S. Senator and Governor. Before they do, they want to know where the candidates stand on the issues essential to the ongoing economic and environmental health of our state and country.
In a non-debate format, Illinois’ U.S. Senate candidates Alexi Giannoulias (D) and Mark Kirk (R) will share their plans and priorities for curing what ails Illinois at the nonprofit Metropolitan Planning Council’s 2010 Annual Luncheon on Monday, June 21, 2010, from noon to 1:45 p.m., at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, Grand Ballroom (East Tower), 151 E. Wacker Dr., Chicago. The luncheon is expected to attract more than 1,000 business, civic, public, and community leaders from around the region. Chicago Sun-Times Washington Bureau Chief Lynn Sweet will question each candidate about their plans for improving coordination among federal agencies, maximizing the next federal surface transportation bill, and implementing the region’s 2040 growth and development plan.
“Illinois voters are looking to our elected officials to make decisions that will help us recover from the devastating downturn we’ve experienced during the last two years,” said MPC President MarySue Barrett. “We’re looking forward to getting Alexi Giannoulias and Mark Kirk on the record on how they plan to make metropolitan Chicago more sustainable, equitable and competitive.”
At the luncheon, MPC also will honor Whistler’s Crossing, Riverdale, Ill., with the 2010 Burnham Award for Excellence in Planning. Learn more about the award.
PNC is the Presenting Sponsor of MPC’s 2010 Annual Luncheon. The Allstate Corporation and The Crown Family are Co-Chair Sponsors of the event.
About Metropolitan Planning Council
Since 1934, the Metropolitan Planning Council (MPC) has been dedicated to shaping a more sustainable and prosperous greater Chicago region. As an independent, nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, MPC serves communities and residents by developing, promoting and implementing solutions for sound regional growth.
About PNC
The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (www.pnc.com) is one of the nation’s largest diversified financial services organizations providing retail and business banking; residential mortgage banking; specialized services for corporations and government entities, including corporate banking, real estate finance and asset-based lending; wealth management; asset management and global fund services. Follow @PNCNewson Twitter for breaking news, updates and announcements from PNC.
WHAT:
“Illinois: Is there a cure?” Metropolitan Planning Council 2010 Annual Luncheon
WHO:
Ill. Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias, Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate
U.S. Rep. Mark Kirk, Republican nominee for U.S. Senate
MarySue Barrett, President, Metropolitan Planning Council
Lester Crown, Chairman, Henry Crown & Company; Member, MPC Board of Governors
Joseph A. Gregoire, Regional President, Illinois Banking, PNC; Member, MPC Board of Governors; Presenting Sponsor, MPC 2010 Annual Luncheon
Lee Mitchell, Chair, MPC Board of Governors; Managing Partner, Thoma Bravo, Inc.
Lynn Sweet, Washington Bureau Chief, Chicago Sun-Times
WHEN:
Monday, June 21, 2010, noon to 1:45 p.m.
Noon: Luncheon begins
Candidates will speak separately, before and after lunch, one at approximately 12:10 p.m. and the other at approximately 1:00 p.m.
WHERE:
Hyatt Regency Chicago, 151 E. Wacker Dr., Grand Ballroom, East Tower
REGISTER:
Tickets may be purchased through MPC’s web site.
Media may attend the event free of charge, but must register in advance and check in day of with MPC Assistant Communications Director Mandy Burrell Booth, mburrell@metroplanning.org or 312-863-6018.