Cherry visits U.P., outlines Michigan issues
By Dionna HarrisArticle Photos
Fact Box
"From an administration standpoint, we are at a crossroads. The crossroad is between economic development and education. Education is the cornerstone of our global economy."
Lt. Gov. John Cherry
ESCANABA - Lt. Gov. John Cherry is in the Upper Peninsula this week as part of his Great Lakes tour. He stopped in Escanaba Wednesday before continuing on to Marquette for an education summit.
Cherry outlined the summit and education issues facing the state.
"From an administration standpoint, we are at a crossroads," said Cherry. "The crossroad is between economic development and education. Education is the cornerstone of our global economy."
Using a local U.P. manufacturer, Engineered Machined Products, as an example, Cherry illustrated how 10 to 20 years ago, a company such as EMP would have to be located downstate in order to compete.
"It is through the skills of the workforce, infusing with technology today, that has provided a competitive edge, giving EMP an advantage," he said.
Cherry also addressed the funding disparity between schools in the U.P. and those downstate. The primary drain on state funding resources, according to Cherry, was funding the state's prison system (Department of Corrections).
"If the issue of corrections could be resolved there would be more funding available for schools. But we can't throw money for the sake of throwing money into the system," he said.
When asked about the upcoming presidential election, Cherry said he felt right now both candidates are compelled to come to Michigan. Michigan is being considered a swing state in the race between Barack Obama and John McCain.
"Sen. Obama has visited Michigan several times, much more than any previous presidential candidate," he said. "The election in Michigan is always close, and right now there is a racial undercurrent that was not felt in previous elections, and I believe that voter participation will be higher. Sen. McCain took a gamble in selecting Palin to be his running mate, however a person does not govern a nation alone, it takes teamwork."
Economic development was also touched on.
"Communication is a vital key to economic development, and it is through communication that the U.P. is able to compete in the global economy," he said.
However, he added, globalization is not necessarily positive, due to workers being displaced either through down-sizing or business closures.
"That is the purpose of the No Worker Left Behind program, which is a training program providing tuition assistance for unemployed workers to learn a new skill which can be put to use in a demanding labor market," said Cherry.
Concerning a question as to whether he would run for governor in the 2010 election, Cherry said he is considering a bid for the office.
"I will make my decision early next year, establishing a campaign committee before the March 1 deadline, and after that begin campaigning in ernest," he said.
Cherry's visit Wednesday also included a stop at J.W. Wells State Park in Cedar River to announce grant funding for a playground.global economy."
Cherry's visit Wednesday also included a stop at J.W. Wells State Park in Cedar River to announce grant funding for a playground.
