I relied on the work of many others in writing this book, but I want to acknowledge a few in particular for their significant contributions:
First, I want to thank Doug Hamilton and Ed Walsh for their untold hours of dedicated assistance. They were a source of valuable counsel, helping to shape the book’s direction and themes. I am also grateful for the hard work of Doug’s talented colleagues in the foundation’s research department who provided the many facts, figures, charts, and statistical insights that help elucidate the nature of our fiscal challenge.
Second, as I’ve said on many occasions, I’ve had a life full of dumb luck. A prime example of that good fortune is the fact that I have a son who not only is, by unanimous consent of all who work with him, truly brilliant but who also shares my passion for fiscal issues. I thank Michael for his efforts on this book as well as at our foundation, where he serves as president and COO and makes his father both happy and proud.