Mail to the Illinois State magazine editor for November 2012:
THE REAL BLAME
I am writing in response to a letter published in the August 2012 edition that scolds you for your “left-wing propaganda” (“Voice of dissidents,” May 2012) in blaming “greedy people for the crash of the economy. It makes no mention of the real blame, which is the Community Reinvestment Act from 1977 that forced banks to loan money to people unable to ever pay it back.”
I have to ask what section of the Act included that “requirement.” I read it and couldn’t find it. The only thing that comes close is in Sec. 2903 (a) (1): “assess the institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, consistent with the safe and sound operation of such institution;…”
Serving the credit needs of the entire community consistent with “safe and sound operation” of the financial institution is the exact opposite of a requirement to make loans that would never be repaid.
ISU taught me a lot in my time there.
I value most the lessons in critical thinking and research.
Terry M. Bush ’71, M.S. ’73
COUNTING YOUR BLESSINGS
The story of Greg Gardner lightened my load (“Triumph over tragedy,” May 2012). He makes me stand up and count my blessings.
In June of 2007 I was struck by a car while walking into the entrance of the company where I worked. I was out of work for several months, but I am OK now.
Greg restored my faith that I can overcome obstacles. He makes me believe that my problems are not insurmountable. Thank you for your story, Greg, for the love of your family that you share with us, and the fact that you are a real-life champion.
Online comment
Ann Eads
