Monthly measure of Illinois economy shows state on somewhat of a comeback

Posted on September 1, 2020
A monthly measure of the Illinois economy is on somewhat of a comeback. (Photo courtesy: Dave Dahl/WJBC)

By Dave Dahl

SPRINGFIELD – A monthly measure of the Illinois economy is on somewhat of a comeback. The Flash index, the University of Illinois’ gauge of Illinois’ economic activity, inched up over the past month from 93.9 to 94.6. 100 is the break-even point between growth and contraction.

The index is a weighted average of consumer spending, corporate earnings, and personal income. Study author Fred Giertz, a University of Illinois economics professor, says since unemployment does not affect all three factors, it does not necessarily tie into the index.

Giertz does say that the election could be a referendum on the economy; a president gets the credit or blame, regardless of whether either is warranted. Giertz says you need only look to Herbert Hoover for an example of how unpopular a president can be in troubled times.

Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected]. 

Blogs

Labor Day – Expanding voting rights for all

By Mike Matejka Because of COVID, there is no Labor Day Parade this year.  It’s always a great event for our everyday workers to march proudly down the street and enjoys the festive crowd. If there had been a parade, this year’s Labor Day theme was to be “150 years of struggle: your right to vote.” …

Is federal mobilization the answer?

By Mike Matejka As President Donald Trump threatens to send federal marshals into Chicago, over the objections of Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, recall another Illinois Governor who protested the incursion of armed federal personnel into the city.   Those federal troops, rather than calming, escalated the situation, leading to deaths and violence. Illinois poet Vachel Lindsay…

In these troubled times, to my fellow white Americans

By Mike Matejka Our nation is at a unique watershed in human relations. African-Americans have been killed too many times in the past before George Floyd, but the response to this man’s death is international and all-encompassing. I was a grade-schooler during the Civil Rights 1960s. I watched Birmingham demonstrators hosed and the Selma – Montgomery…

Workers’ Memorial Day – Remember those whose job took their life

Looking around our community, when we say employer, most will respond to State Farm, Country, or Illinois State University.   We too often forget those who are building our roads, serving our food, or our public employees. COVID-19 has made us more aware of the risk.  Going to work every day for some people means…