Somers--UW-Parkside Chancellor Debbie Ford will be staying put at least a little while longer. Ford was passed over for the top job at Wright State University in Ohio. She'd been one of three finalists to replace the last president who retired. In a statement emailed to Parkside staff and students, Ford said she'll be focusing in the months ahead on the state budget, promoting the school's civic action plan and making plans to celebrate the school's 50th anniversary.
Kenosha---At a forum at the Civil War Museum Monday, a representative of a advocacy group for seniors and disabled residents had praise for aspects of Gov. Walker's proposed budget. But any progress could be wiped out if Republicans in Washington are successful in turning Medicaid into block grants given directly to states. Barbara Beckert of Disability Rights Wisconsin said her analysis indicated that cuts of between 35% and 40% would occur if the block grant program would become reality and states would be left to pick up the slack. Republican State Senator Van Wanggaard disputed the estimate, saying nothing is cast in concrete and people shouldn't worry. But State Representative Peter Barca, who was also in the audience, said now in fact is the time to start worrying--and calling your congressman.
Kenosha---Tremper student Ash Whitaker's transgender bathroom case still stands a chance of winding up before the U-S Supreme Court, even though the justices Monday turned away a similar case from Virginia. That case evolved around the now-quashed Obama administration directive that schools should allow transgender students to use the bathroom of their gender identity. An attorney for Kenosha Unified said the Whitaker case focuses more on the merits of the matter. Oral arguments are expected to be held later this month at the federal appellate level. The loser is expected to appeal to the Supreme Court.
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