Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Personal Income for Metropolitan Areas, 2010
Personal income rose in 2010 in all but four of the nation’s 366 metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs), according to estimates released this month by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. Personal income in the metropolitan portion of the United States rose 2.9 percent in 2010 after falling 1.9 percent in 2009.
Monday, September 5, 2011
Fake a Sick Day? Non!
By Allison Linn
A new survey finds that a whopping 71 percent of Chinese workers admit to calling in sick when they weren’t.
On the other hand, only 16 percent of French workers say they have taken a fake sick day.
http://www.kronos.com/pr/kronos-global-absence-survey-shows-employees-around-the-world-playing-hooky-with-china-leading-the-pack.aspx The survey, conducted by Harris Interactive for Kronos Incorporated, found that about half of all Americans have taken a fake sick day. That’s about on par with countries including Canada and Australia.
More HERE.
A new survey finds that a whopping 71 percent of Chinese workers admit to calling in sick when they weren’t.
On the other hand, only 16 percent of French workers say they have taken a fake sick day.
http://www.kronos.com/pr/kronos-global-absence-survey-shows-employees-around-the-world-playing-hooky-with-china-leading-the-pack.aspx The survey, conducted by Harris Interactive for Kronos Incorporated, found that about half of all Americans have taken a fake sick day. That’s about on par with countries including Canada and Australia.
More HERE.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Workplace fatalities in mining, 2004–2008
From the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Over the 5-year period from January 1, 2004, to December 31, 2008, more than 90 percent of the workplace fatalities in the mining industry resulted from four kinds of events: transportation accidents, contact with objects and equipment, fires and explosions, and exposure to harmful environments.
Over the 5-year period from January 1, 2004, to December 31, 2008, more than 90 percent of the workplace fatalities in the mining industry resulted from four kinds of events: transportation accidents, contact with objects and equipment, fires and explosions, and exposure to harmful environments.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Economist Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) latest Liveability Ranking
From HERE:
Vancouver was first-equal with Melbourne in 2002, taking the top spot in the next ranking and holding it ever since. In this edition of the rankings, Vancouver dropped to third place after the city’s overall score dropped because of “a slight decline in its transport infrastructure score.” Vienna climbed into second place as Melbourne took first place, despite no change in its score.
Seven of the top ten cities are in Canada or Australia (3 and 4, respectively) and two cities are in Europe (Vienna at number two and Helsinki at 7). Auckland rounds out the top ten in tenth place, meaning Commonwealth countries have 8 out of the top ten most liveable cities.
However, the EIU notes that, “The performance of the most liveable cities reflects minimal variation between the scores of the top locations… only 1.8 percentage points separate the top ten cities. In this context, some 63 cities (down to Santiago in Chile) are considered to be in the very top tier of liveability…”
Vancouver was first-equal with Melbourne in 2002, taking the top spot in the next ranking and holding it ever since. In this edition of the rankings, Vancouver dropped to third place after the city’s overall score dropped because of “a slight decline in its transport infrastructure score.” Vienna climbed into second place as Melbourne took first place, despite no change in its score.
Seven of the top ten cities are in Canada or Australia (3 and 4, respectively) and two cities are in Europe (Vienna at number two and Helsinki at 7). Auckland rounds out the top ten in tenth place, meaning Commonwealth countries have 8 out of the top ten most liveable cities.
However, the EIU notes that, “The performance of the most liveable cities reflects minimal variation between the scores of the top locations… only 1.8 percentage points separate the top ten cities. In this context, some 63 cities (down to Santiago in Chile) are considered to be in the very top tier of liveability…”
Friday, September 2, 2011
Robert Samuelson Defends Stat Abstract in Washington Post
Robert J. Samuelson recently published the op ed Don’t kill America’s databook in the Washington Post. He discusses the importance of the Statistical Abstract in the context of data transparency.
NYS Tax Dept: Offer in Compromise Program Reform
From one of those nifty tax digests I receive regularly:
Individuals seeking a fresh start from overwhelming tax debts may now be eligible for relief under a new hardship provision in the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance's Offer in Compromise Program.
The new provision enables them to accept offers where collection in full
would cause undue economic hardship. Previously, the program was only
available in cases of insolvency or bankruptcy.
For more information, see the Offer in Compromise Reform web page and this PDF document.
Individuals seeking a fresh start from overwhelming tax debts may now be eligible for relief under a new hardship provision in the NYS Department of Taxation and Finance's Offer in Compromise Program.
The new provision enables them to accept offers where collection in full
would cause undue economic hardship. Previously, the program was only
available in cases of insolvency or bankruptcy.
For more information, see the Offer in Compromise Reform web page and this PDF document.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Multifactor Productivity Trends in Manufacturing, 2009
From the Bureau of Labor Statistics [PDF]
Manufacturing sector multifactor productivity declined at a 5.7 percent annual rate in 2009, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported. This was the largest annual decline in multifactor productivity since the series started in 1987. The multifactor productivity decline in 2009 reflected a 12.5 percent decrease in output and a 7.2 percent decrease in combined inputs.
Manufacturing sector multifactor productivity declined at a 5.7 percent annual rate in 2009, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported. This was the largest annual decline in multifactor productivity since the series started in 1987. The multifactor productivity decline in 2009 reflected a 12.5 percent decrease in output and a 7.2 percent decrease in combined inputs.
National Transportation Library
Good source for transportation statistics:
Chapter 1 - The Transportation System
Chapter 2 - Transportation Safety
Chapter 3 - Transportation and the Economy
Chapter 4 - Transportation, Energy, and the Environment
Chapter 1 - The Transportation System
Chapter 2 - Transportation Safety
Chapter 3 - Transportation and the Economy
Chapter 4 - Transportation, Energy, and the Environment
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
How Many Species Are There on Earth?
The diversity of life is one of the most striking aspects of our planet; hence knowing how many species inhabit Earth is among the most fundamental questions in science. Yet the answer to this question remains enigmatic, as efforts to sample the world's biodiversity to date have been limited and thus have precluded direct quantification of global species richness, and because indirect estimates rely on assumptions that have proven highly controversial. ... In spite of 250 years of taxonomic classification and over 1.2 million species already catalogued in a central database, our results suggest that some 86% of existing species on Earth and 91% of species in the ocean still await description.
More HERE.
More HERE.
OPAL down for a week
From OPAL, the New York State's Online Permit Assistance and Licensing website:
If you want to start a new business or expand your current business, this site will help you find the New York State business permits you may need.
However
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Due to a scheduled upgrade, the online forms will NOT be available from September 6 through September 13, 2011. This website will NOT be available from September 9 through September 13, 2011. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
If you want to start a new business or expand your current business, this site will help you find the New York State business permits you may need.
However
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Due to a scheduled upgrade, the online forms will NOT be available from September 6 through September 13, 2011. This website will NOT be available from September 9 through September 13, 2011. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
"Community college often gets a bad rap, but for years these institutions have helped many students — especially those trying to balance work, family and going to school — get the education and training they need. President Obama has called community colleges one of the keys to America’s economic future, and the new attention and increasingly bigger draw is bound to mix things up in the coming decade. Here are a few examples" of what is predicted to "evolve and even improve about the community college experience."
More HERE.
More HERE.
Publication of Final Criteria for Delineating Urban Areas for the 2010 Census
The Census Bureau published final criteria for delineating urban areas for the 2010 Census in the August 24, 2011 Federal Register. In addition to the final criteria, the notice contains a summary of comments received in response to the Census Bureau’s proposed urban area criteria and the Census Bureau’s responses to those comments. Background information about the Census Bureau’s urban-rural classification also is included.
Note that these areas form the foundation for delineating the metropolitan and micropolitan areas by OMB that are to come.
The final criteria are available from the Census Bureau’s website at
Note that these areas form the foundation for delineating the metropolitan and micropolitan areas by OMB that are to come.
The final criteria are available from the Census Bureau’s website at
Monday, August 29, 2011
What 15 Financial Experts Want You to Know About College Expenses
There’s no shortage of information about college expenses: scholarships, loans, savings plans, the rising cost of college tuition, and more. Nearly everyone has advice for saving on or somehow managing to make college expenses work. But what do the experts have to say? We’ve found sound college advice from some of the top financial experts today, whether you’re wondering about 529s or raiding your retirement fund for college. Read on to find out what the experts know about saving and paying for college.
Other weather sources
In addition to sources such as the National Weather Service, weather.com, and Weather Underground, here are a couple other links:
The Northeast Climate Center
The Utah Climate Center at the Utah State University.
The Northeast Climate Center
The Utah Climate Center at the Utah State University.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
The Changing Profile of Autopsied Deaths in the US, 1972–2007
National Center for Health Statistics [PDF]
In 1972, almost 1 out of 5 deaths were autopsied. From 1972 through 2003, however, the autopsy rate dropped 58 percent from 19.3 percent to 8.1 percent. Although the autopsy rate has increased slightly since 2003, only 8.5 percent, or fewer than 1 out of 10 deaths, were autopsied in 2007.
In 1972, almost 1 out of 5 deaths were autopsied. From 1972 through 2003, however, the autopsy rate dropped 58 percent from 19.3 percent to 8.1 percent. Although the autopsy rate has increased slightly since 2003, only 8.5 percent, or fewer than 1 out of 10 deaths, were autopsied in 2007.
Variation & Change in the State Standards for Reading & Mathematics, 2005 - 2009
National Center for Education Statistics [PDF]
There is wide variation among state proficiency standards.
• In 2009, as in 2003, 2005, and 2007, using NAEP as common metric, standards for proficient performance in reading and mathematics varied across states in terms of the levels of achievement required. For example, for grade 4 reading, the difference in the level required for proficient performance between the five states with the highest standards and the
five with the lowest standards was comparable to the difference between Basic and Proficient performance on NAEP. The results for reading at grade 8 and mathematics in both grades were similar.
There is wide variation among state proficiency standards.
• In 2009, as in 2003, 2005, and 2007, using NAEP as common metric, standards for proficient performance in reading and mathematics varied across states in terms of the levels of achievement required. For example, for grade 4 reading, the difference in the level required for proficient performance between the five states with the highest standards and the
five with the lowest standards was comparable to the difference between Basic and Proficient performance on NAEP. The results for reading at grade 8 and mathematics in both grades were similar.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Snapshot of Food Safety Milestones in the History of the FDA
Source: U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The FDA posted, “Snapshot of Food Safety Milestones in the History of the FDA” on its Web site. Until a little over a century ago, there were no federal laws or regulations in place to protect the public from potentially dangerous substances in medicines or foods.
The FDA posted, “Snapshot of Food Safety Milestones in the History of the FDA” on its Web site. Until a little over a century ago, there were no federal laws or regulations in place to protect the public from potentially dangerous substances in medicines or foods.
Adoption of Genetically Engineered Crops in the U.S.
From the Department of Agriculture - Economic Research Service
U.S. farmers have adopted genetically engineered (GE) crops widely since their commercial introduction in 1996, notwithstanding uncertainty about consumer acceptance and economic and environmental impacts. In terms of share of planted acres, soybeans and cotton have been the most widely adopted GE crops in the U.S., followed by corn. This data product summarizes the extent of adoption of herbicide-tolerant and insect–resistant crops since their introduction in 1996.
U.S. farmers have adopted genetically engineered (GE) crops widely since their commercial introduction in 1996, notwithstanding uncertainty about consumer acceptance and economic and environmental impacts. In terms of share of planted acres, soybeans and cotton have been the most widely adopted GE crops in the U.S., followed by corn. This data product summarizes the extent of adoption of herbicide-tolerant and insect–resistant crops since their introduction in 1996.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Annual Energy Review
Source: Energy Information Administration
The Annual Energy Review (AER) is the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s primary report of historical annual energy statistics. For many series, data begin with the year 1949. Included are data on total energy production, consumption, and trade; overviews of petroleum, natural gas, coal, electricity, nuclear energy, renewable energy, international energy, as well as financial and environmental indicators; and data unit conversion tables.
The Annual Energy Review (AER) is the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s primary report of historical annual energy statistics. For many series, data begin with the year 1949. Included are data on total energy production, consumption, and trade; overviews of petroleum, natural gas, coal, electricity, nuclear energy, renewable energy, international energy, as well as financial and environmental indicators; and data unit conversion tables.
Same-sex couples in New York State
From the The Williams Institute, UCLA School of Law
Data are compiled from PCT 15, Census 2010 SF-1. Same-sex couples are identified in households where Person 1 describes his or her relationship with another adult of the same sex as either a “husband/wife” or “unmarried partner”. The reported number of same-sex couples in the state and the associated figure for same-sex couples per 1,000 households are based on official Census tabulations.
More HERE.
Data are compiled from PCT 15, Census 2010 SF-1. Same-sex couples are identified in households where Person 1 describes his or her relationship with another adult of the same sex as either a “husband/wife” or “unmarried partner”. The reported number of same-sex couples in the state and the associated figure for same-sex couples per 1,000 households are based on official Census tabulations.
More HERE.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
What Is the Average Retirement Age?
by Alicia H. Munnell
Since working longer is the key to a secure retirement for the vast majority of older Americans, it is useful to take a look at labor force trends for those under and over age 65 for the last century.
Since working longer is the key to a secure retirement for the vast majority of older Americans, it is useful to take a look at labor force trends for those under and over age 65 for the last century.
Use of Victim Service Agencies by Victims of Serious Violent Crime
From 1993 to 2009, an average of 9% of victims of serious violent crime—rape or other sexual assault, robbery, and aggravated assault—received assistance from a victim service agency. Victim service agencies are publicly or privately funded organizations that provide victims with support and services to aid their physical and emotional recovery, offer protection from future victimizations, guide them through the criminal
justice system process, and assist them in obtaining restitution.
More HERE (PDF).
justice system process, and assist them in obtaining restitution.
More HERE (PDF).
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Earthquake Hazards Program
All you need to know about earthquakes from the USGS. The Last Earthquake in New York was a magnitude 2.2 on 2011 August 23 10:35:17 UTC, 28 km (17 miles) W of ALBANY, New York.
Like a Hurricane
Hurricane Irene is churning in the Atlantic, and if you live in a hurricane-prone part of the United States, it's time to prepare for severe storms.
USA.gov has the information you need to prepare your family, your business, and your pets. Don't let a disaster catch you by surprise - be prepared.
USA.gov has the information you need to prepare your family, your business, and your pets. Don't let a disaster catch you by surprise - be prepared.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
THE NEARLY COMPLETE LEIBER & STOLLER DISCOGRAPHY
"This discography focuses on officially released studio recordings; live recordings are included only where there is no studio version by that artist. Exceptions are noted as such."
Jerry Leiber of the songwriting team of Leiber & Stoller has died at the age of 78. The two men gave us a lot of hits, for the Coasters, the Drifters, Elvis Presley and a lot of other folks. I actually bought a book with many, though by no means, all of their songs. You will say "Gee, they wrote that, too?"
Jerry Leiber of the songwriting team of Leiber & Stoller has died at the age of 78. The two men gave us a lot of hits, for the Coasters, the Drifters, Elvis Presley and a lot of other folks. I actually bought a book with many, though by no means, all of their songs. You will say "Gee, they wrote that, too?"
Children's Well Being
A number of reports released this month about children.
From the Annie E. Casey Foundation - 2011 Kids Count Data Book: National and State-By-State Data on Key Indicators of Child Well-Being
From the Census Bureau - A Child’s Day: 2009
From the National Center for Health Statistics - Summary Health Statistics for U.S. Children: National Health Interview Survey, 2010 [PDF]
From the Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality - Hospital Stays for Children, 2009 [PDF]
From the Annie E. Casey Foundation - 2011 Kids Count Data Book: National and State-By-State Data on Key Indicators of Child Well-Being
From the Census Bureau - A Child’s Day: 2009
From the National Center for Health Statistics - Summary Health Statistics for U.S. Children: National Health Interview Survey, 2010 [PDF]
From the Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality - Hospital Stays for Children, 2009 [PDF]
Monday, August 22, 2011
All Time Top 100 Stars at the Box Office
This chart is not adjusted for inflation. The figures represent the total amount of US revenue generated by all the movies a star has appeared in over their lifetime.
Who's #1? You're probably thinking Tom Cruise (#8) or Harrison Ford (#5) or Tom Hanks (#3). My guess is that you will NEVER guess #1.
Who's #1? You're probably thinking Tom Cruise (#8) or Harrison Ford (#5) or Tom Hanks (#3). My guess is that you will NEVER guess #1.
Childbearing
A couple PDF reports from the National Center for Health Statistics
Childbearing Differences Among Three Generations of U.S. Women
Transitions Between Childlessness and First Birth: Three Generations of U.S. Women
Childbearing Differences Among Three Generations of U.S. Women
Transitions Between Childlessness and First Birth: Three Generations of U.S. Women
Sunday, August 21, 2011
How To Live Forever
An inforgraphic talking about our current longevity, things that impact our lifespan, ways to improve that lifespan, and what the future may hold for making us live longer.
"Keeping America Informed" U.S. Government Printing Office's 150th Anniversary History Exhibit
Did you know that the Government Printing Office is celebrating 150
years?
Here is a press release [PDF] on an exhibit with a URL to a YouTube video showing the GPO employees viewing the exhibit.
years?
Here is a press release [PDF] on an exhibit with a URL to a YouTube video showing the GPO employees viewing the exhibit.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
State Agricultural Export Data
From the Department of Agriculture - Economic Research Service
Annual estimates of U.S. exports by State and commodity group based on each State's share of U.S. agricultural production.
Annual estimates of U.S. exports by State and commodity group based on each State's share of U.S. agricultural production.
Small Business Quarterly Bulletin
The Small Business Quarterly Bulletin [PDF] from Advocacy's Office of Economic Research is a brochure-style publication that contains commentary and analysis on the current employment and financing trends of small businesses.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Baby Boomers Envision What's Next?
From AARP:
As boomers approach retirement they are less confident about financing their retirement through their own savings or pensions. They are more likely to expect to rely on Social Security. Their health is also declining. As a result they are less optimistic about their retirement, and now have lowered expectations. They anticipate working longer, at least on a part-time basis, for the additional income. This is especially true among working boomers with lower incomes. The recession and financial meltdown have played a role in this pessimism,
As boomers approach retirement they are less confident about financing their retirement through their own savings or pensions. They are more likely to expect to rely on Social Security. Their health is also declining. As a result they are less optimistic about their retirement, and now have lowered expectations. They anticipate working longer, at least on a part-time basis, for the additional income. This is especially true among working boomers with lower incomes. The recession and financial meltdown have played a role in this pessimism,
Search for Patents
Inventors are encouraged to search the USPTO’s patent database to see if a patent has already been filed or granted that is similar to your patent. Patents may be searched in the USPTO Patent Full-Text and Image Database (PatFT). The USPTO houses full text for patents issued from 1976 to the present and TIFF images for all patents from 1790 to the present.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Employee Benefits for Same-Sex Partners
(description from American Demographics)
Thirty percent of same-sex unmarried domestic partners have access to health care benefits for their partner through their employer, according to the 2011 Employee Benefits Survey. In this Bureau of Labor Statistics' survey, for the first time, questions were included about access to benefits for unmarried domestic partners--same sex and opposite sex. The 30 percent of same-sex partners who have access to health care benefits exceeds the 25 percent of opposite-sex partners with access.
Thirty percent of same-sex unmarried domestic partners have access to health care benefits for their partner through their employer, according to the 2011 Employee Benefits Survey. In this Bureau of Labor Statistics' survey, for the first time, questions were included about access to benefits for unmarried domestic partners--same sex and opposite sex. The 30 percent of same-sex partners who have access to health care benefits exceeds the 25 percent of opposite-sex partners with access.
School Districts Integrate Technology into Common Core-based Curriculum
As states emphasize the Common Core State Standards, school districts work on meeting learning goals with technology.
Forty-four states, including New York State, and the District of Columbia have adopted the standards, and two state consortiums are designing assessments for them.
More info HERE.
Forty-four states, including New York State, and the District of Columbia have adopted the standards, and two state consortiums are designing assessments for them.
More info HERE.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
The MetLife Report on American Grandparents
New Insights for a New Generation of Grandparents
There are 65 million grandparents in the U.S., an increase from 40 million in 1980. More than one in every four adults is a grandparent. A long way from being dependent, households that are headed by someone 45 to 64 years old command almost half (46%) of the nation’s total household income. If households older than age 65 are added in, the grandparent age share of the nation’s income rises to 60%, which is a full 10 percentage points higher than it was in 1980.
There are 65 million grandparents in the U.S., an increase from 40 million in 1980. More than one in every four adults is a grandparent. A long way from being dependent, households that are headed by someone 45 to 64 years old command almost half (46%) of the nation’s total household income. If households older than age 65 are added in, the grandparent age share of the nation’s income rises to 60%, which is a full 10 percentage points higher than it was in 1980.
Interesting ZIP code resource
Zipskinny, unfortunately, is based on Census 2000 data, not 2010...yet.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Wealth Gaps Rise to Record Highs Between Whites, Blacks and Hispanics
The median wealth of white households is 20 times that of black households and 18 times that of Hispanic households, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of newly available government data from 2009.
These lopsided wealth ratios are the largest since the government began publishing such data a quarter century ago and roughly twice the size of the ratios that had prevailed between these three groups for the two decades prior to the Great Recession that ended in 2009.
The Pew Research Center analysis finds that, in percentage terms, the bursting of the housing market bubble in 2006 and the recession that followed from late 2007 to mid-2009 took a far greater toll on the wealth of minorities than whites.
More from Pew Research.
These lopsided wealth ratios are the largest since the government began publishing such data a quarter century ago and roughly twice the size of the ratios that had prevailed between these three groups for the two decades prior to the Great Recession that ended in 2009.
The Pew Research Center analysis finds that, in percentage terms, the bursting of the housing market bubble in 2006 and the recession that followed from late 2007 to mid-2009 took a far greater toll on the wealth of minorities than whites.
More from Pew Research.
Standard & Poor's Credit Rating for each country
The map found HERE shows Standard & Poor's Credit Rating for each country. The US is no longer deep blue.
Monday, August 15, 2011
A Timeline of College Tuition
My wife went to college in the 1980s and recalled that she thought tuition at her private university was quite expensive. Since then, the tuition has increased fivefold, as we noticed on an alumni visit last week.
Speaking of which, A Timeline of College Tuition.
Speaking of which, A Timeline of College Tuition.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Search for Lost Money
What is Lost Money?
For your protection, banks, insurance companies, utilities, investment companies and many other businesses are required by State law to surrender inactive accounts to the State. These accounts are known as “lost,” “abandoned,” or “unclaimed” funds.
The Office of the State Comptroller serves as custodian of this money. If you can prove you are entitled to the money, we will gladly return it to you, at any time, without charge. Until the money is claimed, it is used by the State’s General Funds, serving the citizens and taxpayers of the State of New York.
For your protection, banks, insurance companies, utilities, investment companies and many other businesses are required by State law to surrender inactive accounts to the State. These accounts are known as “lost,” “abandoned,” or “unclaimed” funds.
The Office of the State Comptroller serves as custodian of this money. If you can prove you are entitled to the money, we will gladly return it to you, at any time, without charge. Until the money is claimed, it is used by the State’s General Funds, serving the citizens and taxpayers of the State of New York.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Friday, August 12, 2011
Handbook of New York State and Local Taxes
The Handbook of New York State and Local Taxes provides a general descriptive overview of the taxes which New York State and its local
governments impose, and is revised periodically to reflect recently
enacted law changes. It does not include non-tax revenue sources such as
motor vehicle fees and the Lottery. Instead, it focuses on taxes,
especially those administered by the Department of Taxation and Finance.
governments impose, and is revised periodically to reflect recently
enacted law changes. It does not include non-tax revenue sources such as
motor vehicle fees and the Lottery. Instead, it focuses on taxes,
especially those administered by the Department of Taxation and Finance.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
New York State Transportation Equity Alliance
The New York State Transportation Equity Alliance (NYSTEA) is a coalition of over 75 groups across New York State working to reform federal and state transportation policy.
NYSTEA is coordinated by Empire State Future, Tri-State Transportation Campaign, UPROSE and WE ACT- combining regional land use planning, environmental justice and transportation policy experience.
NYSTEA is coordinated by Empire State Future, Tri-State Transportation Campaign, UPROSE and WE ACT- combining regional land use planning, environmental justice and transportation policy experience.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Updates to CUNY's Census maps
The team at the CUNY Center for Urban Research has updated its interactive maps showing block-level race/ethnicity patterns in 2000 and 2010 in major US cities.
The maps are available at www.urbanresearchmaps.org/comparinator/pluralitymap.htm. Steven Romalewski has a blog post with more detail HERE. The news release is here.
Some updates:
1. Block-level coverage for all of New York State, as well as New Jersey and Connecticut. For example, here are links to Albany and Syracuse and Buffalo and Babylon/Islip on Long Island.
2. More cities. There are now 15 major urban regions mapped (Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Francisco, and Washington D.C.).
3. The maps now have three ways of comparing 2000 and 2010 racial patterns:
- a vertical slider bar dividing two overlapping maps (2000 on the left, 2010 on the right);
- a side-by-side comparison (two separate maps moving in unison), and
- a single-map overlay (you can fade between 2010 and 2000).
4. Color-coded the population change data in the popup window. Population increase is shown in green; decrease is shown in red. (A minor thing, but hopefully it makes the change values clearer.)
All three options for viewing are included so people can pick and choose which they like best, or which suits their particular needs. The vertical slider bar provides an effective "before and after" view. The side-by-side comparison works well for lingering over a given area, especially at the local level, taking the time to absorb the differences in demographic patterns. The single-map 2010/2000 overlay seems especially helpful for revealing the increase in diversity over a given area (as areas shaded with darker blues, oranges, etc fade to lighter shades indicating a more mixed population demographically) or vice versa.
CUNY Center for Urban Research has received some good feedback already on people's favorite comparison techniques. If you have a preference and have used the maps for a particular project, they would love to know.
The maps are available at www.urbanresearchmaps.org/comparinator/pluralitymap.htm. Steven Romalewski has a blog post with more detail HERE. The news release is here.
Some updates:
1. Block-level coverage for all of New York State, as well as New Jersey and Connecticut. For example, here are links to Albany and Syracuse and Buffalo and Babylon/Islip on Long Island.
2. More cities. There are now 15 major urban regions mapped (Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Francisco, and Washington D.C.).
3. The maps now have three ways of comparing 2000 and 2010 racial patterns:
- a vertical slider bar dividing two overlapping maps (2000 on the left, 2010 on the right);
- a side-by-side comparison (two separate maps moving in unison), and
- a single-map overlay (you can fade between 2010 and 2000).
4. Color-coded the population change data in the popup window. Population increase is shown in green; decrease is shown in red. (A minor thing, but hopefully it makes the change values clearer.)
All three options for viewing are included so people can pick and choose which they like best, or which suits their particular needs. The vertical slider bar provides an effective "before and after" view. The side-by-side comparison works well for lingering over a given area, especially at the local level, taking the time to absorb the differences in demographic patterns. The single-map 2010/2000 overlay seems especially helpful for revealing the increase in diversity over a given area (as areas shaded with darker blues, oranges, etc fade to lighter shades indicating a more mixed population demographically) or vice versa.
CUNY Center for Urban Research has received some good feedback already on people's favorite comparison techniques. If you have a preference and have used the maps for a particular project, they would love to know.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Fewer Employees Cost More at MTA
Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) employees received an average total pay of $72,019 in 2010, up nearly 4 percent from the 2009 level, according to the latest complete MTA payroll posted at www.SeeThroughNY.net, the government transparency website sponsored by the Empire Center for New York State Policy.
The list of highest-paid MTA employees was topped by Jay Walder, the agency's chairman and CEO, whose base salary in 2010 was $350,000, followed by seven other high-ranking MTA executives who earned between $241,341 and $285,331.
To read the full release, click here.
To visit the SeeThroughNY database, click here.
The list of highest-paid MTA employees was topped by Jay Walder, the agency's chairman and CEO, whose base salary in 2010 was $350,000, followed by seven other high-ranking MTA executives who earned between $241,341 and $285,331.
To read the full release, click here.
To visit the SeeThroughNY database, click here.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
What is a "common wheelchair?"
Section 37.3 of the DOT’s regulations implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) (49 CFR Parts 27, 37, and 38) defines a "common wheelchair" as a mobility aid belonging to any class of three or four-wheeled devices, usable indoors, designed for and used by individuals with mobility impairments, whether operated manually or powered. A "common wheelchair" does not exceed 30 inches in width and 48 inches in length measured two inches above the ground, and does not weigh more than 600 pounds when occupied.
Is an electric scooter or other mobility device a common wheelchair?
If an electric scooter or other mobility device meets the physical specifications of a common wheelchair as defined by the DOT’s ADA regulations, it must be treated as a common wheelchair.
May a transit operator require common wheelchairs be secured to the vehicle?
Yes, provided that the transit operator has established such a policy. Section 37.165(c)(3) of the DOT’s ADA regulations allows a transit operator to establish a policy that requires all riders to have their common wheelchairs secured while aboard a transit vehicle. Therefore, the operator may decline to provide service to a rider who refuses to allow his or her common wheelchair to be secured. Alternatively, transit operators may adopt a policy that allows common wheelchairs to ride unsecured. If the rider wishes his or her wheelchair to be secured, however, the operator’s personnel must provide the requested assistance.
What kinds of securement equipment must be provided?
Section 38.23(d) of the DOT’s ADA regulations requires all ADA-compliant vehicles to have a two-part securement system, one to secure the common wheelchair, and a seatbelt and shoulder harness for the wheelchair user. Section 38.23(a) requires vehicles over 22 feet in length to have enough securement locations and devices to secure two common wheelchairs, while vehicles 22 feet and under must be able to accommodate at least one common wheelchair.
May a transit operator deny boarding to a rider whose common wheelchair is difficult to secure?
No. If the transit operator has a policy that requires securement, or if a rider asks that the wheelchair be secured, Section 37.165(f) of the DOT’s ADA regulations requires transit personnel to use their best efforts to secure any mobility device that meets the regulatory definition of a common wheelchair. Section 37.165(d) states that transit operators cannot refuse to accommodate a common wheelchair – including a scooter or other specialized mobility device that complies with the ADA regulation’s specifications -- because the wheelchair cannot be secured to the driver’s satisfaction. Given the diversity of "common" wheelchairs, transit operators should consult with the manufacturers of securement devices and wheelchairs, as well as the owner of the wheelchair, to determine the best means of securement.
Does a wheelchair user have to use the seatbelt and shoulder harness?
Under the broad non-discrimination provisions in Section 37.5 of the DOT’s ADA regulations, a transit operator is not permitted to mandate the use by wheelchair users of seatbelts and shoulder harnesses, unless the operator mandates the use of these devices by all passengers, including those sitting in vehicle seats. For example, on fixed route buses, if none of the other passengers are required to wear shoulder belts then neither can the person in the mobility device be required to do so.Transit operators may establish a policy that requires the seatbelt and shoulder harness to be used by all riders, including those who use wheelchairs as well as those who use vehicle seats, if seatbelts and shoulder harnesses are provided at all seating locations. In some cases, state law could require an operator to adopt such a policy.
What kind of services must transit personnel provide?
Because safe and nondiscriminatory transportation is the responsibility of the transit operator, Section 37.173 of the DOT’s ADA regulations requires transit operators to train their personnel to properly assist and treat individuals with disabilities with sensitivity, and to operate vehicles and equipment safely. This includes training personnel to use the accessibility equipment and to accommodate the different types of common wheelchairs. Attendant-type services (e.g., carrying passengers, personal baggage, or suitcases) are not required, but assistance with boarding and disembarking, including pushing a manual wheelchair up a particularly steep ramp, is required.
What if the accessibility equipment is missing or not working?
Section 37.161 of the DOT’s ADA regulations requires transit operators to maintain and repair the accessibility equipment. Section 37.163 requires public transit operators to establish a schedule or system to ensure regular and frequent maintenance checks and to take a vehicle out of service to repair or replace any broken or missing equipment before returning the vehicle to service. In some instances, a transit operator must provide alternative accessible transportation if the accessibility equipment is not present or not working.
Does a common wheelchair need brakes in order to use public transit?
No. The DOT ADA regulations’ definition of a common wheelchair does not include a requirement for brakes or any other equipment. A transit operator may not deny transportation to a wheelchair user because the wheelchair does not have brakes or the user does not choose to set the brakes.
Can an operator refuse to carry a person with a disability, especially a person using an electric scooter that meets the definition of a "common wheelchair," because of higher insurance rates or liability concerns?
No. Section 37.5(g) of the DOT’s ADA regulations prohibits an operator from denying service to an individual with a disability because its insurance company conditions coverage or rates on the absence of individuals with disabilities or persons who use common wheelchairs.
Can a transit operator require a person to transfer from a wheelchair to a vehicle seat?
No. Section 37.165(e) of the DOT’s ADA regulations allows persons who use wheelchairs to transfer to a vehicle seat, if one is available. Such a move is the rider’s decision and the transit operator cannot force a rider to transfer to a vehicle seat, although the transit operator can suggest a transfer in a non-coercive way.For more information on this and other topics related to the ADA and public transit, contact:
Federal Transit Administration
Office of Civil Rights
East Building – 5th Floor, TCR
1200 New Jersey Ave., SE
Washington, DC 20590
Is an electric scooter or other mobility device a common wheelchair?
If an electric scooter or other mobility device meets the physical specifications of a common wheelchair as defined by the DOT’s ADA regulations, it must be treated as a common wheelchair.
May a transit operator require common wheelchairs be secured to the vehicle?
Yes, provided that the transit operator has established such a policy. Section 37.165(c)(3) of the DOT’s ADA regulations allows a transit operator to establish a policy that requires all riders to have their common wheelchairs secured while aboard a transit vehicle. Therefore, the operator may decline to provide service to a rider who refuses to allow his or her common wheelchair to be secured. Alternatively, transit operators may adopt a policy that allows common wheelchairs to ride unsecured. If the rider wishes his or her wheelchair to be secured, however, the operator’s personnel must provide the requested assistance.
What kinds of securement equipment must be provided?
Section 38.23(d) of the DOT’s ADA regulations requires all ADA-compliant vehicles to have a two-part securement system, one to secure the common wheelchair, and a seatbelt and shoulder harness for the wheelchair user. Section 38.23(a) requires vehicles over 22 feet in length to have enough securement locations and devices to secure two common wheelchairs, while vehicles 22 feet and under must be able to accommodate at least one common wheelchair.
May a transit operator deny boarding to a rider whose common wheelchair is difficult to secure?
No. If the transit operator has a policy that requires securement, or if a rider asks that the wheelchair be secured, Section 37.165(f) of the DOT’s ADA regulations requires transit personnel to use their best efforts to secure any mobility device that meets the regulatory definition of a common wheelchair. Section 37.165(d) states that transit operators cannot refuse to accommodate a common wheelchair – including a scooter or other specialized mobility device that complies with the ADA regulation’s specifications -- because the wheelchair cannot be secured to the driver’s satisfaction. Given the diversity of "common" wheelchairs, transit operators should consult with the manufacturers of securement devices and wheelchairs, as well as the owner of the wheelchair, to determine the best means of securement.
Does a wheelchair user have to use the seatbelt and shoulder harness?
Under the broad non-discrimination provisions in Section 37.5 of the DOT’s ADA regulations, a transit operator is not permitted to mandate the use by wheelchair users of seatbelts and shoulder harnesses, unless the operator mandates the use of these devices by all passengers, including those sitting in vehicle seats. For example, on fixed route buses, if none of the other passengers are required to wear shoulder belts then neither can the person in the mobility device be required to do so.Transit operators may establish a policy that requires the seatbelt and shoulder harness to be used by all riders, including those who use wheelchairs as well as those who use vehicle seats, if seatbelts and shoulder harnesses are provided at all seating locations. In some cases, state law could require an operator to adopt such a policy.
What kind of services must transit personnel provide?
Because safe and nondiscriminatory transportation is the responsibility of the transit operator, Section 37.173 of the DOT’s ADA regulations requires transit operators to train their personnel to properly assist and treat individuals with disabilities with sensitivity, and to operate vehicles and equipment safely. This includes training personnel to use the accessibility equipment and to accommodate the different types of common wheelchairs. Attendant-type services (e.g., carrying passengers, personal baggage, or suitcases) are not required, but assistance with boarding and disembarking, including pushing a manual wheelchair up a particularly steep ramp, is required.
What if the accessibility equipment is missing or not working?
Section 37.161 of the DOT’s ADA regulations requires transit operators to maintain and repair the accessibility equipment. Section 37.163 requires public transit operators to establish a schedule or system to ensure regular and frequent maintenance checks and to take a vehicle out of service to repair or replace any broken or missing equipment before returning the vehicle to service. In some instances, a transit operator must provide alternative accessible transportation if the accessibility equipment is not present or not working.
Does a common wheelchair need brakes in order to use public transit?
No. The DOT ADA regulations’ definition of a common wheelchair does not include a requirement for brakes or any other equipment. A transit operator may not deny transportation to a wheelchair user because the wheelchair does not have brakes or the user does not choose to set the brakes.
Can an operator refuse to carry a person with a disability, especially a person using an electric scooter that meets the definition of a "common wheelchair," because of higher insurance rates or liability concerns?
No. Section 37.5(g) of the DOT’s ADA regulations prohibits an operator from denying service to an individual with a disability because its insurance company conditions coverage or rates on the absence of individuals with disabilities or persons who use common wheelchairs.
Can a transit operator require a person to transfer from a wheelchair to a vehicle seat?
No. Section 37.165(e) of the DOT’s ADA regulations allows persons who use wheelchairs to transfer to a vehicle seat, if one is available. Such a move is the rider’s decision and the transit operator cannot force a rider to transfer to a vehicle seat, although the transit operator can suggest a transfer in a non-coercive way.For more information on this and other topics related to the ADA and public transit, contact:
Federal Transit Administration
Office of Civil Rights
East Building – 5th Floor, TCR
1200 New Jersey Ave., SE
Washington, DC 20590
Saturday, August 6, 2011
The Marriage Equality Act
This document [PDF] explains that all marriages, whether of same-sex couples or different-sex couples, will be treated equally under all laws of the state. Accordingly, the Act applies to all taxes administered by the Tax Department as of the effective date of July 24, 2011.
Library Statistics
The latest update of the Public Libraries Survey (PLS) data is now available on the IMLS web site. This survey has a CENSUS URL, not so incidentally.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Census of State and Local Law Enforcement Agencies, 2008
In September 2008, state and local law enforcement agencies employed more than 1.1 million persons on a full-time basis, including about 765,000
sworn personnel (defined as those with general arrest powers). Agencies also employed approximately 100,000 part-time employees, including 44,000 sworn
officers. These findings come from the 2008 Bureau of Justice Statistics’ (BJS) Census of State and Local Law Enforcement Agencies (CSLLEA), the fifth such census to be conducted since the quadrennial series began in 1992.
sworn personnel (defined as those with general arrest powers). Agencies also employed approximately 100,000 part-time employees, including 44,000 sworn
officers. These findings come from the 2008 Bureau of Justice Statistics’ (BJS) Census of State and Local Law Enforcement Agencies (CSLLEA), the fifth such census to be conducted since the quadrennial series began in 1992.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses by occupation, 2009
In 2009, the total number of reported nonfatal occupational injury and illness cases that required days away from work to recuperate was 1,238,490 cases for private industry, state government, and local government; the total incidence rate was 117 cases per 10,000 full-time workers.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Consumer Protection blog
Check out the Federal Trade Commission's Consumer Protection blog for valuable tips to help you protect your privacy, manage your money, avoid scams, and much more. Recent posts suggest caution in downloading apps; describe how businesses track your web browsing; and reveal scams that target immigrants.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Women’s Earnings in 2010
From Bureau of Labor Statistics [PDF]
In 2010, women who were full-time wage and salary workers had median weekly earnings of $669. Women earned 81 percent of the median weekly earnings of their male counterparts ($824). In 1979, the first year for which comparable
earnings data are available, women earned 62 percent of what men earned. The women's-to-men's earnings ratio has been in the 80 to 81 percent range since 2004; prior to this time, the ratio had been gradually trending upward.
In 2010, women who were full-time wage and salary workers had median weekly earnings of $669. Women earned 81 percent of the median weekly earnings of their male counterparts ($824). In 1979, the first year for which comparable
earnings data are available, women earned 62 percent of what men earned. The women's-to-men's earnings ratio has been in the 80 to 81 percent range since 2004; prior to this time, the ratio had been gradually trending upward.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Death in the United States, 2009
From the National Center for Health Statistics [PDF]
Mortality in the United States is best summarized by the age-adjusted death
rate—a measure that accounts for changes in the age distribution of the
population. This rate has declined in an almost uninterrupted manner since
1960. The death rate is now 45 percent lower than in 1960 (declining from
1,339.2 per 100,000 standard population in 1960 to 741.0 in 2009).
Although age-adjusted mortality has declined for all demographic groups
over a period of many decades, long-standing gaps between black and white
populations and between male and female populations have begun to narrow
only since the mid-1990s. Many of the recent improvements in death rates
and life expectancy for all population groups can be attributed to ongoing
reductions in death rates from major causes of death, such as heart disease,
cancer, stroke, and chronic lower respiratory diseases.
Mortality in the United States is best summarized by the age-adjusted death
rate—a measure that accounts for changes in the age distribution of the
population. This rate has declined in an almost uninterrupted manner since
1960. The death rate is now 45 percent lower than in 1960 (declining from
1,339.2 per 100,000 standard population in 1960 to 741.0 in 2009).
Although age-adjusted mortality has declined for all demographic groups
over a period of many decades, long-standing gaps between black and white
populations and between male and female populations have begun to narrow
only since the mid-1990s. Many of the recent improvements in death rates
and life expectancy for all population groups can be attributed to ongoing
reductions in death rates from major causes of death, such as heart disease,
cancer, stroke, and chronic lower respiratory diseases.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
The National Pastime
I discovered this particular chart at www.baseball-reference.com which indicates what current and former teams have the best won-lost percentage since the franchises began.
OK, for current teams, you likely guessed the New York Yankees, formerly the New York Highlanders and Baltimore Orioles are #1 by about 30 percentage points. But who's #2?
Interestingly, the Yankees are NOT the #1 team in terms of Hall of Fame members. They have 42, but the Atlanta Braves (a .500 team since 1876) have 45; the Los Angeles Angeles Dodgers (#3 in winning percentage) have 46.
The #1 team in term of Hall of Fame representatives are the San Francisco Giants with 55; the Giants have the second-highest winning percentage.
The current teams with the lowest winning percentages are Tampa Bay (by a wide margin), followed by San Diego, Seattle, Texas, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, and Milwaukee.
OK, for current teams, you likely guessed the New York Yankees, formerly the New York Highlanders and Baltimore Orioles are #1 by about 30 percentage points. But who's #2?
Interestingly, the Yankees are NOT the #1 team in terms of Hall of Fame members. They have 42, but the Atlanta Braves (a .500 team since 1876) have 45; the Los Angeles Angeles Dodgers (#3 in winning percentage) have 46.
The #1 team in term of Hall of Fame representatives are the San Francisco Giants with 55; the Giants have the second-highest winning percentage.
The current teams with the lowest winning percentages are Tampa Bay (by a wide margin), followed by San Diego, Seattle, Texas, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, and Milwaukee.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
10 Fascinating Projections About Education in the U.S.
Occasionally, people actually submit content to me. This post on educational trends is one of them.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Compensation costs up in June
Compensation for civilian workers rose 0.7%, wages and salaries rose 0.4%, and benefit costs rose 1.3%, seasonally adjusted, from March to June 2011. Over the year, compensation rose 2.2%, wages and salaries 1.6%, and benefits 3.6%
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Pew Analysis of Census Data Demonstrates Wealth Gaps
From APDU
A recently released Pew Research Center analysis of data from the Census Bureau’s Survey of Income and Program Participation demonstrates that the median wealth of white households is 20 times that of black households and 18 times that of Hispanic households. Access the report, Twenty-to-One: Wealth Gaps Rise to Record Highs Between Whites, Blacks, and Hispanics, and associated coverage in The Washington Post.
A recently released Pew Research Center analysis of data from the Census Bureau’s Survey of Income and Program Participation demonstrates that the median wealth of white households is 20 times that of black households and 18 times that of Hispanic households. Access the report, Twenty-to-One: Wealth Gaps Rise to Record Highs Between Whites, Blacks, and Hispanics, and associated coverage in The Washington Post.
Nonemployer Statistics, 2009
Annual report on businesses without paid employees in nearly 300 industries for the nation, states, counties and metropolitan areas. Most who own such businesses are self-employed and operate very small businesses (for example, real estate agents or beauticians) that may or may not be their primary source of income.
The number of nonemployer businesses...declined by more than 260,000 between 2008 and 2009 across the United States, according to new data from the U.S. Census Bureau...In 2009, there were 21.1 million nonemployer firms, a decrease of about 1.2 percent from 2008. This continues a decline first noted in 2008 — following the beginning of the recession at the end of 2007 — when the total number fell by more than 350,000 from a peak of 21.7 million firms in 2007.
“Nonemployer firms generate a small percentage of total U.S. business receipts, but they constitute the majority of U.S. businesses...”
The number of nonemployer businesses...declined by more than 260,000 between 2008 and 2009 across the United States, according to new data from the U.S. Census Bureau...In 2009, there were 21.1 million nonemployer firms, a decrease of about 1.2 percent from 2008. This continues a decline first noted in 2008 — following the beginning of the recession at the end of 2007 — when the total number fell by more than 350,000 from a peak of 21.7 million firms in 2007.
“Nonemployer firms generate a small percentage of total U.S. business receipts, but they constitute the majority of U.S. businesses...”
Online seminars
Someone asked me about finding an online seminar about a particular topic, and I found a couple that I had used before.
But then I came across www.finervista.com; "Find best online seminars and webcasts by industry experts." A useful site for a variety of topics.
But then I came across www.finervista.com; "Find best online seminars and webcasts by industry experts." A useful site for a variety of topics.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
IRS migration profiles: 2008/09 data added
The IRS has released new county and state level migration data for years 2008/2009. The Missouri SDC has updated its menu pages and web applications to provide access to these latest available data. See HERE.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Slashing the Census Budget
Census cuts could end some surveys
The Census Bureau would have to make severe cuts in the type of data it collects from American households and businesses if its budget is slashed 25 percent, as proposed under a bill being considered by the House Appropriations Committee, according to experts on the census.
The agency, which is closing half its regional offices to save money, has warned that cuts that big would likely mean an end to next year’s Economic Survey, which is conducted every five years and is used to calculate the nation’s Gross Domestic Product, among other things. There also could be deep cuts in the American Community Survey, a monthly survey of households that provides detailed information on a wide variety of habits, from commuting patterns to household income levels.
While the Obama administration has proposed reducing the agency’s budget from $1.15 billion to $1.02 billion, House lawmakers are considering a bill that would give the Census Bureau $885 million in 2012 — almost $300 million less. That is much deeper than the 6 percent cut being proposed for the Commerce Department, which oversees the bureau.
Census Budget: House Bill Would Gut Economic Monitoring, Endanger GDP And Other Stats
"It would have major, permanent impacts on the nation's economic and demographic statistics," the bureau said, according to Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.), a member and past chair of the House Joint Economic Committee.
Maurine Haver, the head of the National Association of Business Economists' statistics committee...did note that collecting less information is good only for people who are not interested in answers.
"I just have no clue what they are thinking," Haver said. "If you want to run the country not based on information but just based on your ideology, this is fine -- if you don't need to know what's going on out there."
Also, The Consequences of Budget Cuts.
The Census Bureau would have to make severe cuts in the type of data it collects from American households and businesses if its budget is slashed 25 percent, as proposed under a bill being considered by the House Appropriations Committee, according to experts on the census.
The agency, which is closing half its regional offices to save money, has warned that cuts that big would likely mean an end to next year’s Economic Survey, which is conducted every five years and is used to calculate the nation’s Gross Domestic Product, among other things. There also could be deep cuts in the American Community Survey, a monthly survey of households that provides detailed information on a wide variety of habits, from commuting patterns to household income levels.
While the Obama administration has proposed reducing the agency’s budget from $1.15 billion to $1.02 billion, House lawmakers are considering a bill that would give the Census Bureau $885 million in 2012 — almost $300 million less. That is much deeper than the 6 percent cut being proposed for the Commerce Department, which oversees the bureau.
Census Budget: House Bill Would Gut Economic Monitoring, Endanger GDP And Other Stats
"It would have major, permanent impacts on the nation's economic and demographic statistics," the bureau said, according to Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.), a member and past chair of the House Joint Economic Committee.
Maurine Haver, the head of the National Association of Business Economists' statistics committee...did note that collecting less information is good only for people who are not interested in answers.
"I just have no clue what they are thinking," Haver said. "If you want to run the country not based on information but just based on your ideology, this is fine -- if you don't need to know what's going on out there."
Also, The Consequences of Budget Cuts.
Anniversary of Americans with Disabilities Act: July 26
This day marks the 21st anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which guarantees equal opportunity for people with disabilities in public accommodations, commercial facilities, employment, transportation, state and local government services and telecommunications.
Population Distribution
36 million
Number of people who have a disability. They represent 12 percent of the civilian noninstitutionalized population.
By age —
-- 5 percent of children 5 to 17 have disabilities.
-- 10 percent of people 18 to 64 have disabilities.
-- 37 percent of adults 65 and older have disabilities.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
12.3%
Percentage of females with a disability, compared with 11.6 percent of males.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
18.8%
Percentage of people with a disability in West Virginia, highest of all states. Utah has the lowest with 8.9 percent of its residents reporting a disability.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
Specific Disabilities
10.2 million
Number of people who have a hearing difficulty. Of these, 5.8 million are 65 and older.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
6.5 million
Number of people with a vision difficulty.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
13.5 million
Number of people 5 and older who have difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions. Of these, 2.1 million are children
5 to 17 years of age.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
19.4 million
Number of people 5 and older who have difficulty walking or climbing stairs.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
On the Job
6%
Percentage of disabled workers 16 and older who use public transportation to commute to work. In addition, 70 percent of people with a
disability drive alone, 13 percent carpool, 4 percent walk and 3 percent use a taxicab, motorcycle, bicycle or other means.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
22%
Percentage of disabled workers 16 and older who work in the educational services and health care and social assistance industries, the
highest of any industry.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
Income and Poverty
21%
Percent of the population age 16 and older with a disability that are below the poverty level. Eleven percent of the population age 16 and
older without a disability are below the poverty level.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
72%
Percentage of disabled people 16 and older who are not in the labor force. Twenty-seven percent of people without a disability are not in the labor force.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
$18,865
Median earnings of the population age 16 and older with a disability, this compares with $28,983 for the population without a disability.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
Serving Our Nation
$35.3 billion
Amount of compensation veterans received for service-connected disabilities in fiscal year 2008.
Source: Statistical Abstract of the United States: 2011, Table 521
Education
28%
Percentage of people 25 and older with a disability who have less than a high school graduate education. This compares with 12 percent
for those with no disability.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
13%
Percentage of people 25 and older with a disability who have a bachelor's degree or higher. This compares with 31 percent for
those with no disability.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
Population Distribution
36 million
Number of people who have a disability. They represent 12 percent of the civilian noninstitutionalized population.
By age —
-- 5 percent of children 5 to 17 have disabilities.
-- 10 percent of people 18 to 64 have disabilities.
-- 37 percent of adults 65 and older have disabilities.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
12.3%
Percentage of females with a disability, compared with 11.6 percent of males.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
18.8%
Percentage of people with a disability in West Virginia, highest of all states. Utah has the lowest with 8.9 percent of its residents reporting a disability.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
Specific Disabilities
10.2 million
Number of people who have a hearing difficulty. Of these, 5.8 million are 65 and older.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
6.5 million
Number of people with a vision difficulty.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
13.5 million
Number of people 5 and older who have difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions. Of these, 2.1 million are children
5 to 17 years of age.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
19.4 million
Number of people 5 and older who have difficulty walking or climbing stairs.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
On the Job
6%
Percentage of disabled workers 16 and older who use public transportation to commute to work. In addition, 70 percent of people with a
disability drive alone, 13 percent carpool, 4 percent walk and 3 percent use a taxicab, motorcycle, bicycle or other means.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
22%
Percentage of disabled workers 16 and older who work in the educational services and health care and social assistance industries, the
highest of any industry.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
Income and Poverty
21%
Percent of the population age 16 and older with a disability that are below the poverty level. Eleven percent of the population age 16 and
older without a disability are below the poverty level.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
72%
Percentage of disabled people 16 and older who are not in the labor force. Twenty-seven percent of people without a disability are not in the labor force.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
$18,865
Median earnings of the population age 16 and older with a disability, this compares with $28,983 for the population without a disability.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
Serving Our Nation
$35.3 billion
Amount of compensation veterans received for service-connected disabilities in fiscal year 2008.
Source: Statistical Abstract of the United States: 2011, Table 521
Education
28%
Percentage of people 25 and older with a disability who have less than a high school graduate education. This compares with 12 percent
for those with no disability.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
13%
Percentage of people 25 and older with a disability who have a bachelor's degree or higher. This compares with 31 percent for
those with no disability.
Source: 2009 American Community Survey
Monday, July 25, 2011
Marriage equality map
Arthur @AmeriNZ "made a couple illustrations to depict the reality of marriage equality in the US now that New York is officially the sixth US state to enact it. The map...depicts Free States, which have marriage equality, those that forbid it (the majority) and those that are somewhere in between (the second biggest group). This sort of map shows up curiosities, like the northern state of Michigan banning marriage equality and the southern state of North Carolina not doing anything at all (yet). California won’t be counted as a free state until its infamous Proposition 8 is overturned one way or another."
Census 2010 maps
The Program on Applied Demographics has posted over 100 maps showing almost all the indicators available in the Demographic Profile dataset for New York. Presently the subject matter of the maps concentrate on housing occupancy and tenure, household type (family, nonfamily) and the relationship (in household, in group quarters) but also include maps of population size and density. More population variables will be added.
The maps have been organized into three groupings—economic region, county/subcounty, and major cities. You can find a link to all these maps from the PAD home page. On the left side of the home page, there is a new section entitled Maps and carries with it the subtitle of Census 2010 Atlas. Click on that hyperlink and it will carry you to the map index page which shows the availability of maps by subject for the three levels of geography. (For the cities, we mapped the variables by tract.)
In terms of viewing the maps simply put your cursor on one of the check marks and click. At the bottom of each map page there are two nice browsing features. If you click the forward-backward buttons, you see other maps for the same geographic level. Or if you want to see more detail at a different level of geography, select from the change geographic detail list.
The maps have been organized into three groupings—economic region, county/subcounty, and major cities. You can find a link to all these maps from the PAD home page. On the left side of the home page, there is a new section entitled Maps and carries with it the subtitle of Census 2010 Atlas. Click on that hyperlink and it will carry you to the map index page which shows the availability of maps by subject for the three levels of geography. (For the cities, we mapped the variables by tract.)
In terms of viewing the maps simply put your cursor on one of the check marks and click. At the bottom of each map page there are two nice browsing features. If you click the forward-backward buttons, you see other maps for the same geographic level. Or if you want to see more detail at a different level of geography, select from the change geographic detail list.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
108 Stores with Senior Discounts
Since I am, ahem, eligible for AARP, my sister (younger by less than two years!) sent me this admittedly useful list.
"Gone are the days of your grandmother’s “early bird special” at the local diner. As our baby boomers reach retirement age, hundreds of retailers are featuring new and improved discounts exclusively for the 60 and older crowd. We have composed a list of senior savings that will help you keep more cash in your pocket. Whoever said getting older was a bad thing, obviously didn’t know about these fantastic senior discounts!"
Restaurants
Retail and Apparel
Grocery
Travel
Activities & Entertainment
Miscellaneous
Click this link to view the list
"Gone are the days of your grandmother’s “early bird special” at the local diner. As our baby boomers reach retirement age, hundreds of retailers are featuring new and improved discounts exclusively for the 60 and older crowd. We have composed a list of senior savings that will help you keep more cash in your pocket. Whoever said getting older was a bad thing, obviously didn’t know about these fantastic senior discounts!"
Restaurants
Retail and Apparel
Grocery
Travel
Activities & Entertainment
Miscellaneous
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Saturday, July 23, 2011
Friday, July 22, 2011
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Facts about the Average American
From Cheryl Russell, editorial director, New Strategist Publications
There is no single source of information on the average American. To know him (or her), you have to follow the demographics. To that end, here is a sampling of just a few of the characteristics of the average American (adult) or household.
1. The average American makes $735/week.
Current Population Survey
2. The average American has $34 in his/her wallet.
Survey of Consumer Payment Choice
3. The average American spends $69 a day.
Gallup
4. The average American has a job (58%).
Bureau of Labor Statistics
5. The average American thinks hard work is the way to get ahead (70%).
General Social Survey
6. The average American thinks the government's number-one priority should be to help keep and create jobs in America (51%).
Economic Mobility Project
7. The average American has employer-provided health insurance (56%).
Current Population Survey
8. The average American household spends $3,126 a year out-of-pocket on health care.
Consumer Expenditure Survey
9. The average American has a landline telephone (70%).
National Health Interview Survey
10. The average American has a cell phone (87%), but does not own a smart phone (only 35% own one).
National Health Interview Survey, Pew Research Center
11. The average American says the economy/jobs will be the top issue in the 2012 election (60%).
Kaiser Polls
12. The average American has less than $100,000 in savings (54%).
AARP
13. The average American does not directly own any stock. (Only 19% of households own stock directly.)
Survey of Consumer Finances
14. The average American household is $75,600 in debt (including the mortgage).
Survey of Consumer Finances
15. The average American has been to college (56%), but does not have a college degree.
Current Population Survey
16. The average American owns a desktop (59%) and/or laptop computer (52%).
Pew Internet & American Life Project
17. The average American used the Internet today (59%).
Pew Internet & American Life Project
18. The average American says he/she is in very good or excellent health (56%).
Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System
19. The average American is overweight (63%).
National Health Interview Survey
20. The average American eats at least two snacks a day (65%).
USDA
21. The average American drinks alcohol regularly (52%).
National Health Interview Survey
22. The average American goes to the doctor at least twice a year (65%).
National Health Interview Survey
23. The average American is taking at least one prescription drug.
Health, United States
24. The average American sometimes or often has trouble sleeping (55%).
General Social Survey
25. The average American is currently married (51%).
Families and Living Arrangements
26. The average American has never divorced (only 21% have ever divorced).
Survey of Income and Program Participation
27. The average American lives in one of the top 50 metropolitan areas (54%).
2010 census
28. The average American is a homeowner (65%).
2010 census
29. The average American lives in an 1,800 square foot house.
American Housing Survey
30. The average American lives in a house built before 1975.
American Housing Survey
31. The average American believes the effects of global warming have already begun or soon will (53%).
Gallup
32. The average American household is air-conditioned (87%).
American Housing Survey
33. The average American watches 2 hours and 49 minutes of television a day.
American Time Use Survey
34. The average American has two or more children (57%).
General Social Survey
35. The average American favors spanking children, if necessary (69%).
General Social Survey
36. The average American was born in-state (52%).
American Community Survey
37. The average American's parents were born in the United States (78%)
General Social Survey
38. The average American's grandparents (all four) were born in the United States (59%).
General Social Survey
39. The average American household owns two vehicles.
Consumer Expenditure Survey
40. The average American household owns at least one pet (62%).
American Pet Products Association
41. The average American pays his/her credit card bill in full each month (54%).
National Bureau of Economic Research
42. The average American household has a net worth of $96,000.
Survey of Consumer Finances
43. The average American believes in God without a doubt (59%).
General Social Survey
44. The average American believes in evolution (56%).
General Social Survey
45. The average American favors the death penalty (68%).
General Social Survey
46. The average American often or always recycles (64%).
General Social Survey
47. The average American wants the government to spend more on education (74%), health care (60%), and the environment (60%).
National Opinion Research Center
48. The average American is worried about being able to maintain his/her standard of living (58%).
Gallup
49. The average American believes the honesty and ethical standards of Congress are low (57%).
Sourcebook of Criminal Justice Statistics
50. The average American does not know which political party controls the House of Representatives (62%).
Pew Research Center
For more about the the average American, see the 10th edition of The American Marketplace: Demographics and Spending Patterns, available in hardcopy or as a PDF download with links to Excel files of each data table.
There is no single source of information on the average American. To know him (or her), you have to follow the demographics. To that end, here is a sampling of just a few of the characteristics of the average American (adult) or household.
1. The average American makes $735/week.
Current Population Survey
2. The average American has $34 in his/her wallet.
Survey of Consumer Payment Choice
3. The average American spends $69 a day.
Gallup
4. The average American has a job (58%).
Bureau of Labor Statistics
5. The average American thinks hard work is the way to get ahead (70%).
General Social Survey
6. The average American thinks the government's number-one priority should be to help keep and create jobs in America (51%).
Economic Mobility Project
7. The average American has employer-provided health insurance (56%).
Current Population Survey
8. The average American household spends $3,126 a year out-of-pocket on health care.
Consumer Expenditure Survey
9. The average American has a landline telephone (70%).
National Health Interview Survey
10. The average American has a cell phone (87%), but does not own a smart phone (only 35% own one).
National Health Interview Survey, Pew Research Center
11. The average American says the economy/jobs will be the top issue in the 2012 election (60%).
Kaiser Polls
12. The average American has less than $100,000 in savings (54%).
AARP
13. The average American does not directly own any stock. (Only 19% of households own stock directly.)
Survey of Consumer Finances
14. The average American household is $75,600 in debt (including the mortgage).
Survey of Consumer Finances
15. The average American has been to college (56%), but does not have a college degree.
Current Population Survey
16. The average American owns a desktop (59%) and/or laptop computer (52%).
Pew Internet & American Life Project
17. The average American used the Internet today (59%).
Pew Internet & American Life Project
18. The average American says he/she is in very good or excellent health (56%).
Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System
19. The average American is overweight (63%).
National Health Interview Survey
20. The average American eats at least two snacks a day (65%).
USDA
21. The average American drinks alcohol regularly (52%).
National Health Interview Survey
22. The average American goes to the doctor at least twice a year (65%).
National Health Interview Survey
23. The average American is taking at least one prescription drug.
Health, United States
24. The average American sometimes or often has trouble sleeping (55%).
General Social Survey
25. The average American is currently married (51%).
Families and Living Arrangements
26. The average American has never divorced (only 21% have ever divorced).
Survey of Income and Program Participation
27. The average American lives in one of the top 50 metropolitan areas (54%).
2010 census
28. The average American is a homeowner (65%).
2010 census
29. The average American lives in an 1,800 square foot house.
American Housing Survey
30. The average American lives in a house built before 1975.
American Housing Survey
31. The average American believes the effects of global warming have already begun or soon will (53%).
Gallup
32. The average American household is air-conditioned (87%).
American Housing Survey
33. The average American watches 2 hours and 49 minutes of television a day.
American Time Use Survey
34. The average American has two or more children (57%).
General Social Survey
35. The average American favors spanking children, if necessary (69%).
General Social Survey
36. The average American was born in-state (52%).
American Community Survey
37. The average American's parents were born in the United States (78%)
General Social Survey
38. The average American's grandparents (all four) were born in the United States (59%).
General Social Survey
39. The average American household owns two vehicles.
Consumer Expenditure Survey
40. The average American household owns at least one pet (62%).
American Pet Products Association
41. The average American pays his/her credit card bill in full each month (54%).
National Bureau of Economic Research
42. The average American household has a net worth of $96,000.
Survey of Consumer Finances
43. The average American believes in God without a doubt (59%).
General Social Survey
44. The average American believes in evolution (56%).
General Social Survey
45. The average American favors the death penalty (68%).
General Social Survey
46. The average American often or always recycles (64%).
General Social Survey
47. The average American wants the government to spend more on education (74%), health care (60%), and the environment (60%).
National Opinion Research Center
48. The average American is worried about being able to maintain his/her standard of living (58%).
Gallup
49. The average American believes the honesty and ethical standards of Congress are low (57%).
Sourcebook of Criminal Justice Statistics
50. The average American does not know which political party controls the House of Representatives (62%).
Pew Research Center
For more about the the average American, see the 10th edition of The American Marketplace: Demographics and Spending Patterns, available in hardcopy or as a PDF download with links to Excel files of each data table.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
The Effect of Income on Appliances in U.S. Households
Looking across the country at how people live, the factors that cause the most differences in home lifestyle, including energy use, are:
Geographic Location
Socioeconomics
Household Income
Geographic location determines what climate people live in, what appliances they have, and what types of energy they use in their home. Socioeconomic differences may show how differences vary based on race, gender, or the number and relationships of the persons in a household. Household income can affect the number and cost-related attributes and types of appliances, like televisions, that most households have. This document looks at the relationships of these factors to home appliance ownership, based on information from the 2001 Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS), conducted by the Energy Information Administration.
Geographic Location
Socioeconomics
Household Income
Geographic location determines what climate people live in, what appliances they have, and what types of energy they use in their home. Socioeconomic differences may show how differences vary based on race, gender, or the number and relationships of the persons in a household. Household income can affect the number and cost-related attributes and types of appliances, like televisions, that most households have. This document looks at the relationships of these factors to home appliance ownership, based on information from the 2001 Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS), conducted by the Energy Information Administration.
Let the poor sweat
There was this recent article in the National Review, Modern Poverty Includes A.C. and an Xbox, reporting on a Heritage Foundation report, What is Poverty. The implication was clear: the poor in the United States don't have it all that bad.
My initial inclination was not to even to address the issue. After all, it was one of those unwinnable arguments with people of a particular mindset And look at some of the items- Owning a refrigerator? Probably provided by the landlord; ditto the stove and oven. Air conditioning is a necessity in much of the country. TVs are relatively cheap form of information and entertainment. Even people in Afghanistan and sub-Saharan Africa have cell phones. And are these new items or second-hand?
But some of my data colleagues made interesting points:
One wrote: "Poverty status is about the ability of a 'family' to obtain a given standard of living based on its current flow of resources during some relatively short period, e.g. one year. Much of today's poor were not poor in the recent past, when they were able to purchase the consumer durables" measured. Interestingly, my seven-year daughter made pretty much the same observation when I was talking about this.
Another data colleague reflected on the interesting responses of who "bought stuff when employed, and now haven’t worked in years and it’s difficult to replace what they have. Where Heritage sees luxurious poor people, I see a desperately sliding middle class. And there’s no substantial research here to prove either view is right.
"Not to mention the details. If you have an air conditioner, you may not be able to afford to turn it on. Individual pay-as-you-go cell phones are encouraged for the unemployed as a help in job searches and more stable than land lines given the instability of housing for the poor... Subsidized housing often comes with washers and dryers because it takes less resources than trips to the laundromat. Go into any thrift shop in the U.S. and find used x-box systems for $10 or less as the employed trade up to a better system. And non-digital TVs for the taking."
It's clear that the writer created "a 'straw man' in selectively picking out polling data indicating that most Americans view poverty as third world style depravation. If you think that is approprate to the US, then quite right; few Americans qualify." But, by American standards, the promise of children doing better than their parents is very much in question.
My initial inclination was not to even to address the issue. After all, it was one of those unwinnable arguments with people of a particular mindset And look at some of the items- Owning a refrigerator? Probably provided by the landlord; ditto the stove and oven. Air conditioning is a necessity in much of the country. TVs are relatively cheap form of information and entertainment. Even people in Afghanistan and sub-Saharan Africa have cell phones. And are these new items or second-hand?
But some of my data colleagues made interesting points:
One wrote: "Poverty status is about the ability of a 'family' to obtain a given standard of living based on its current flow of resources during some relatively short period, e.g. one year. Much of today's poor were not poor in the recent past, when they were able to purchase the consumer durables" measured. Interestingly, my seven-year daughter made pretty much the same observation when I was talking about this.
Another data colleague reflected on the interesting responses of who "bought stuff when employed, and now haven’t worked in years and it’s difficult to replace what they have. Where Heritage sees luxurious poor people, I see a desperately sliding middle class. And there’s no substantial research here to prove either view is right.
"Not to mention the details. If you have an air conditioner, you may not be able to afford to turn it on. Individual pay-as-you-go cell phones are encouraged for the unemployed as a help in job searches and more stable than land lines given the instability of housing for the poor... Subsidized housing often comes with washers and dryers because it takes less resources than trips to the laundromat. Go into any thrift shop in the U.S. and find used x-box systems for $10 or less as the employed trade up to a better system. And non-digital TVs for the taking."
It's clear that the writer created "a 'straw man' in selectively picking out polling data indicating that most Americans view poverty as third world style depravation. If you think that is approprate to the US, then quite right; few Americans qualify." But, by American standards, the promise of children doing better than their parents is very much in question.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Factfinder 2 mystery
One of our Data Detectives entered a New York State address. The American Factfinder 2 system retrieved information for a township in Missouri. Another address in Buffalo NY retrieved data for Buffalo City in
Johnson County Wyoming.
However, the system worked as expected when entering the zip code, with or without the city and state.
The Census Bureau has indicated that FactFinder 2 works best with Firefox
3.5 or greater, and that has shown to be accurate. Using Internet Explorer 8 earlier, though, currently does not work well with FactFinder. Apparently, FactFinder will work with IE 7, but not higher versions. The Census Bureau is working on this problem.
Our Data Detective got good results using Google Chrome, but incorrect results using Opera.
Johnson County Wyoming.
However, the system worked as expected when entering the zip code, with or without the city and state.
The Census Bureau has indicated that FactFinder 2 works best with Firefox
3.5 or greater, and that has shown to be accurate. Using Internet Explorer 8 earlier, though, currently does not work well with FactFinder. Apparently, FactFinder will work with IE 7, but not higher versions. The Census Bureau is working on this problem.
Our Data Detective got good results using Google Chrome, but incorrect results using Opera.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Tips and Tricks for Using the New American FactFinder Webinar
July 28, 2011
2:00-3:30 PM EDT
Register
Are you frustrated by the Census Bureau's new American FactFinder? Can't find the data you want? This webinar will provide a how-to demonstration to get the tips and tricks you'll need to successfully use the new American FactFinder. The webinar will also cover when the Census Bureau plans to move other data sets, such as the American Community Survey, to the new FactFinder.
Presenter:
Nancy Gemignani
Research Specialist, California State Census Data Center
State of California Department of Finance, Demographic Research Unit
Webinar pricing is as follows:
• C2ER Members: Free
• LMI Training Institute Member States: Free
• APDU Members: $25
• All Others: $50
2:00-3:30 PM EDT
Register
Are you frustrated by the Census Bureau's new American FactFinder? Can't find the data you want? This webinar will provide a how-to demonstration to get the tips and tricks you'll need to successfully use the new American FactFinder. The webinar will also cover when the Census Bureau plans to move other data sets, such as the American Community Survey, to the new FactFinder.
Presenter:
Nancy Gemignani
Research Specialist, California State Census Data Center
State of California Department of Finance, Demographic Research Unit
Webinar pricing is as follows:
• C2ER Members: Free
• LMI Training Institute Member States: Free
• APDU Members: $25
• All Others: $50
Saturday, July 16, 2011
http://www.correlated.org/
"69 percent of people who have business cards have gotten a speeding ticket, compared with 53 percent of people in general.
Based on a survey of 298 people who have business cards and 743 people in general."
This is one the truly bizarre factoids available at Correlated.org. Forget the fact that these are self-selected people, and therefore it's not a scientific survey; it's just weird. But from the webpage, the Freakonomics people seem to like it.
Based on a survey of 298 people who have business cards and 743 people in general."
This is one the truly bizarre factoids available at Correlated.org. Forget the fact that these are self-selected people, and therefore it's not a scientific survey; it's just weird. But from the webpage, the Freakonomics people seem to like it.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Age/sex/race in New York State
Based on Census 2010 Summary File 1 from data detective Jan K. Vink of the Program on Applied Demographics at Cornell University.
PAD brings skills in demographics, economics, statistics, data gathering and data analysis together to provide a variety of organizations and data analysis together to provide a variety of organizations with data, information and advice. PAD works closely with the New York State Department of Economic Development, the U.S. Census Bureau and other organizations to assist them in their activities. PAD maintains its own web site which has an extensive data section where viewers have access to the latest data on New York, including data from Census 2010.
PAD brings skills in demographics, economics, statistics, data gathering and data analysis together to provide a variety of organizations and data analysis together to provide a variety of organizations with data, information and advice. PAD works closely with the New York State Department of Economic Development, the U.S. Census Bureau and other organizations to assist them in their activities. PAD maintains its own web site which has an extensive data section where viewers have access to the latest data on New York, including data from Census 2010.
Census Bureau Releases New Local-Level Demographic Info from 2010 Census for NY, 5 other states
The U.S. Census Bureau today released new, detailed demographic information from the 2010 Census for Arizona, Minnesota, Montana, New York, Oklahoma and Vermont.
These Summary File 1 tables provide the most detailed counts available so far from the 2010 Census, including cross-tabulations of age, sex, households, families, relationship to householder, housing units, detailed race and Hispanic or Latino origin groups, and group quarters. The statistics are available for a variety of geographic areas, with most tables available down to the block or census tract level.
What's Unique in Summary File 1
Summary File 1 provides new layers of detail about the topics covered in the 2010 Census and cross-tabulates many of these topics to provide a more nuanced picture. Beyond just providing counts of families, for example, the summary file also shows the number of families by type, by the age of the children present and by race and Hispanic origin of the householder.
Many of the tables are repeated for nine race and Hispanic or Latino origin groups: white alone, black or African-American alone, American Indian and Alaska Native alone, Asian alone, Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone, some other race, two or more races, Hispanic or Latino, and white alone not Hispanic or Latino.
New topics include:
•Single year of age by sex
•More detail on children, including adopted, stepchildren and grandchildren
•Race and Hispanic origin of householder
•More detail on household relationships
•Group quarters population by sex, age and group quarters type
•Housing tenure (rented or owned) by age, household type, race and Hispanic origin of householder
•Mortgage status of owned housing units
These Summary File 1 tables provide the most detailed counts available so far from the 2010 Census, including cross-tabulations of age, sex, households, families, relationship to householder, housing units, detailed race and Hispanic or Latino origin groups, and group quarters. The statistics are available for a variety of geographic areas, with most tables available down to the block or census tract level.
What's Unique in Summary File 1
Summary File 1 provides new layers of detail about the topics covered in the 2010 Census and cross-tabulates many of these topics to provide a more nuanced picture. Beyond just providing counts of families, for example, the summary file also shows the number of families by type, by the age of the children present and by race and Hispanic origin of the householder.
Many of the tables are repeated for nine race and Hispanic or Latino origin groups: white alone, black or African-American alone, American Indian and Alaska Native alone, Asian alone, Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone, some other race, two or more races, Hispanic or Latino, and white alone not Hispanic or Latino.
New topics include:
•Single year of age by sex
•More detail on children, including adopted, stepchildren and grandchildren
•Race and Hispanic origin of householder
•More detail on household relationships
•Group quarters population by sex, age and group quarters type
•Housing tenure (rented or owned) by age, household type, race and Hispanic origin of householder
•Mortgage status of owned housing units
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
OMB approves ACS Internet test plan
Last week, OMB approved the Census Bureau’s revised plan to test the ACS Internet option. Click on supporting docs and see the June 15 doc for the plan.
Monday, July 11, 2011
The Impact of Regulatory Costs on Business
From SBA [PDF].
"The annual cost of federal regulations in the United States increased to more than $1.75 trillion in 2008. Had every U.S. household paid an equal share of the federal regulatory burden, each would have owed $15,586 in 2008."
Check especially the chart on PDF page 60.
"The annual cost of federal regulations in the United States increased to more than $1.75 trillion in 2008. Had every U.S. household paid an equal share of the federal regulatory burden, each would have owed $15,586 in 2008."
Check especially the chart on PDF page 60.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
High School Longitudinal Study of 2009: A First Look at Fall 2009 9th-Graders
From the National Center for Education Statistics:
This report features initial findings from the base year of a new longitudinal study that started with a nationally representative cohort of ninth-graders in the fall of 2009 and will follow these students through postsecondary education and the world of work. The base year data focus on students’ transitions into high school, especially their decisions about courses and plans for postsecondary education and careers. The HSLS:09 study captures these decisions, plans, expectations, and activities generally but also specifically in math and science.
This report features initial findings from the base year of a new longitudinal study that started with a nationally representative cohort of ninth-graders in the fall of 2009 and will follow these students through postsecondary education and the world of work. The base year data focus on students’ transitions into high school, especially their decisions about courses and plans for postsecondary education and careers. The HSLS:09 study captures these decisions, plans, expectations, and activities generally but also specifically in math and science.
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Children's Dental Care: Advice and Checkups, 2008
This Statistical Brief provides analysis for dental visits among children ages 2-17 and the advice given by doctors to the parents of children for their dental checkups and frequency of routine checkups. In terms of following the doctor's advice to have routine dental checkups, only about half (49.3 percent) of the children received them.
Friday, July 8, 2011
The Connection Between Obesity and Poverty
By Phil Izzo, Wall Street Journal
A new report finds shows that Americans are getting fatter and notes worse rates among those with low incomes, but some states don’t exactly fit the pattern.
A new report finds shows that Americans are getting fatter and notes worse rates among those with low incomes, but some states don’t exactly fit the pattern.
Living Arrangements of Children: 2009
This report [PDF] from the Census Bureau examines the diversity of children’s living arrangements in households in the United States. The data are from the household relationship module of the Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP) collected in early 2009. This is an update of an earlier report based on data from the 2004 SIPP Panel.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Tax Department Policy on Manufacturer's Discounts Received Using Store Loyalty Cards
From NYS sales tax guidance
This memorandum describes the procedures that sellers should follow to properly disclose to customers that certain discounts received through store loyalty cards are manufacturer's discounts.
Many businesses use store loyalty cards to offer their customers incentives to shop frequently at their stores. These incentives often include discounts that are activated by scanning the customer's loyalty card at the cash register.
When these loyalty card discounts are given and the discounted item is subject to sales tax, the amount subject to sales tax generally depends on whether the discount reflects a manufacturer's discount or a store discount. If the store is reimbursed for the amount of the discount by the manufacturer, distributor or other third party, it is a manufacturer's discount. If the store receives no reimbursement from a third party for the amount of the discount given, it is a store discount.
Generally, when a customer purchases an item subject to sales tax and receives a manufacturer's discount, the amount subject to sales tax is the full price of the item before subtracting the discount. For store discounts, however, the amount subject to sales tax is the price of the item after the discount is applied...
In the case of a manufacturer's discount, the store must adequately disclose to the customer, at or before the time of purchase, that the discount the customer is receiving is a manufacturer's discount. This is to ensure that the customer is aware that the full purchase price is subject to sales tax. If the seller fails to adequately disclose this information to the customer...the seller must collect sales tax from the customer on the reduced price of the item. However, in this case, when the seller files its sales tax return it must still remit sales tax on the full price of the item before the discount. That is, the seller itself will be required to pay the sales tax on the amount of the manufacturer's discount.
This memorandum describes the procedures that sellers should follow to properly disclose to customers that certain discounts received through store loyalty cards are manufacturer's discounts.
Many businesses use store loyalty cards to offer their customers incentives to shop frequently at their stores. These incentives often include discounts that are activated by scanning the customer's loyalty card at the cash register.
When these loyalty card discounts are given and the discounted item is subject to sales tax, the amount subject to sales tax generally depends on whether the discount reflects a manufacturer's discount or a store discount. If the store is reimbursed for the amount of the discount by the manufacturer, distributor or other third party, it is a manufacturer's discount. If the store receives no reimbursement from a third party for the amount of the discount given, it is a store discount.
Generally, when a customer purchases an item subject to sales tax and receives a manufacturer's discount, the amount subject to sales tax is the full price of the item before subtracting the discount. For store discounts, however, the amount subject to sales tax is the price of the item after the discount is applied...
In the case of a manufacturer's discount, the store must adequately disclose to the customer, at or before the time of purchase, that the discount the customer is receiving is a manufacturer's discount. This is to ensure that the customer is aware that the full purchase price is subject to sales tax. If the seller fails to adequately disclose this information to the customer...the seller must collect sales tax from the customer on the reduced price of the item. However, in this case, when the seller files its sales tax return it must still remit sales tax on the full price of the item before the discount. That is, the seller itself will be required to pay the sales tax on the amount of the manufacturer's discount.
Revenues and Expenditures for Public Elementary and Secondary Education: School Year 2008–09
This First Look report presents state-level data on revenues by source and expenditures by function for public elementary and secondary education for school year 2008-09. Part of the Common Core of Data (CCD), this report presents data submitted annually to NCES by state education agencies in the 50 states and the District of Columbia. Findings include: • Current expenditures per pupil for public elementary and secondary education were $10,591 in Fiscal Year (FY) 2009. • Adjusting for inflation, per pupil state and local revenues decreased by 1 percent or more in 16 states and increased by 1 percent or more in 25 states from FY 08 to FY 09. • Between FY 08 and FY 09, per pupil current expenditures decreased by 1 percent or more in 8 states and increased by 1 percent or more in 36 states.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
E-Reader Ownership Doubles in Six Months
From the Pew Internet & American Life Project
The percent of U.S. adults with an e-book reader doubled from 6% to 12% between November 2010 and May 2011. Hispanic adults, adults younger than age 65, college graduates and those living in households with incomes of at least $75,000 are most likely to own e-book readers. Parents are also more likely than non-parents to own these devices.
Tablet computers have not seen the same level of growth among U.S. adults in recent months. In May 2011, 8% of adults report owning a tablet computer such as an iPad, Samsung Galaxy or Motorola Xoom. This is roughly the same percentage of adults who reported owning this kind of device in January 2011 (7%), and represents just a 3 percentage-point increase in ownership since November 2010. Overall, the highest rates of tablet ownership are among Hispanic adults and those with household incomes of at least $75,000 annually.
The percent of U.S. adults with an e-book reader doubled from 6% to 12% between November 2010 and May 2011. Hispanic adults, adults younger than age 65, college graduates and those living in households with incomes of at least $75,000 are most likely to own e-book readers. Parents are also more likely than non-parents to own these devices.
Tablet computers have not seen the same level of growth among U.S. adults in recent months. In May 2011, 8% of adults report owning a tablet computer such as an iPad, Samsung Galaxy or Motorola Xoom. This is roughly the same percentage of adults who reported owning this kind of device in January 2011 (7%), and represents just a 3 percentage-point increase in ownership since November 2010. Overall, the highest rates of tablet ownership are among Hispanic adults and those with household incomes of at least $75,000 annually.
International Data Base
The U.S. Census Bureau conducts demographic and economic studies and strengthens statistical development around the world through technical assistance, training, and software products. For over 60 years, the Census Bureau has assisted in the collection, processing, analysis, dissemination, and use of statistics with counterpart governments in over 100 countries.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
How Far Can You Get From McDonald's?
From Data Pointed:
"Just how far away can you get from our world of generic convenience? And how would you figure that out?
"As I hurtled down the highway, a pair of golden arches crept over the horizon, and the proverbial lightbulb smacked me in the forehead. To gauge the creep of cookie-cutter commercialism, there’s no better barometer than McDonald’s – ubiquitous fast food chain and inaugural megacorporate colonizer of small towns nationwide.
"So, I set out to determine the farthest point from a Micky Dee’s – in the lower 48 states, at least."
"Just how far away can you get from our world of generic convenience? And how would you figure that out?
"As I hurtled down the highway, a pair of golden arches crept over the horizon, and the proverbial lightbulb smacked me in the forehead. To gauge the creep of cookie-cutter commercialism, there’s no better barometer than McDonald’s – ubiquitous fast food chain and inaugural megacorporate colonizer of small towns nationwide.
"So, I set out to determine the farthest point from a Micky Dee’s – in the lower 48 states, at least."
U.S. Net International Investment Position at Yearend 2010
From the Bureau of Economic Analysis:
The U.S. net international investment position at yearend 2010 was -$2,471.0 billion (preliminary), as the value of foreign investments in the United States continued to exceed the value of U.S. investments abroad. At yearend 2009, the U.S. net international investment position was -$2,396.4 billion (revised).
The -$74.6 billion change in the U.S. net investment position from yearend 2009 to yearend 2010 primarily reflected net foreign acquisitions of financial assets in the United States that exceeded net U.S. acquisitions of
financial assets abroad. The impact of these financial flows was partly offset
by the net change in valuation adjustments, which include price changes,
exchange-rate changes, and other changes such as more complete source data.
The U.S. net international investment position at yearend 2010 was -$2,471.0 billion (preliminary), as the value of foreign investments in the United States continued to exceed the value of U.S. investments abroad. At yearend 2009, the U.S. net international investment position was -$2,396.4 billion (revised).
The -$74.6 billion change in the U.S. net investment position from yearend 2009 to yearend 2010 primarily reflected net foreign acquisitions of financial assets in the United States that exceeded net U.S. acquisitions of
financial assets abroad. The impact of these financial flows was partly offset
by the net change in valuation adjustments, which include price changes,
exchange-rate changes, and other changes such as more complete source data.
Monday, July 4, 2011
Segregation in the land of limousine liberalism
From Salon.com:
Westchester County is far from the streets of Birmingham and the lunch counters of Greensboro, but the super-affluent suburban swath just north of New York City may be the premier civil rights battleground of 2011. Westchester is defying a landmark federal court order to desegregate housing in its whitest and wealthiest towns, prompting civil rights activists to return to court. The federal government has allowed wealthy municipalities to keep the poor and black out for decades, and municipal leaders nationwide are watching closely to see if the Obama administration forces the county to comply.
Westchester County is far from the streets of Birmingham and the lunch counters of Greensboro, but the super-affluent suburban swath just north of New York City may be the premier civil rights battleground of 2011. Westchester is defying a landmark federal court order to desegregate housing in its whitest and wealthiest towns, prompting civil rights activists to return to court. The federal government has allowed wealthy municipalities to keep the poor and black out for decades, and municipal leaders nationwide are watching closely to see if the Obama administration forces the county to comply.
New Pool Regs - and a Tax Credit Offset
There are new Americans with Disabilities Act regulations regarding many swimming pools.
To assist businesses with complying with the ADA, Section 44 of the IRS Code allows a tax credit for small businesses and Section 190 of the IRS Code allows a tax deduction for all businesses.
The tax credit is available to businesses that have total revenues of $1,000,000 or less in the previous tax year or 30 or fewer full-time employees. This credit can cover 50% of the eligible access expenditures in
a year up to $10,250 (maximum credit of $5000). The tax credit can be used to offset the cost of undertaking barrier removal and alterations to improve accessibility; providing accessible formats such as Braille, large print and audio tape; making available a sign language interpreter or a reader for customers or employees, and for purchasing certain adaptive equipment.
The tax deduction is available to all businesses with a maximum deduction of $15,000 per year. The tax deduction can be claimed for expenses incurred in barrier removal and alterations.
To assist businesses with complying with the ADA, Section 44 of the IRS Code allows a tax credit for small businesses and Section 190 of the IRS Code allows a tax deduction for all businesses.
The tax credit is available to businesses that have total revenues of $1,000,000 or less in the previous tax year or 30 or fewer full-time employees. This credit can cover 50% of the eligible access expenditures in
a year up to $10,250 (maximum credit of $5000). The tax credit can be used to offset the cost of undertaking barrier removal and alterations to improve accessibility; providing accessible formats such as Braille, large print and audio tape; making available a sign language interpreter or a reader for customers or employees, and for purchasing certain adaptive equipment.
The tax deduction is available to all businesses with a maximum deduction of $15,000 per year. The tax deduction can be claimed for expenses incurred in barrier removal and alterations.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Persons with a Disability: Labor Force Statistics - 2010
From the Bureau of Labor Statistics [PDF]
The proportion of the population employed in 2010—the employment-population ratio—was 18.6 percent among those with a disability, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported. The employment-population ratio for persons without a disability was 63.5 percent. The ratios in 2010 for both persons with and without a disability were lower than those recorded in 2009. The unemployment rate of persons with a disability was 14.8 percent in 2010, higher than the rate for those with no disability, which was 9.4 percent.
The data on persons with a disability are collected as part of the Current Population Survey (CPS), a monthly sample survey of about 60,000 households that provides statistics on employment and unemployment in the United States. The collection of data on persons with a disability is sponsored by
the Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy.
Also: Students with Disabilities at Degree-Granting Postsecondary Institutions from National Center for Education Statistics.
The proportion of the population employed in 2010—the employment-population ratio—was 18.6 percent among those with a disability, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported. The employment-population ratio for persons without a disability was 63.5 percent. The ratios in 2010 for both persons with and without a disability were lower than those recorded in 2009. The unemployment rate of persons with a disability was 14.8 percent in 2010, higher than the rate for those with no disability, which was 9.4 percent.
The data on persons with a disability are collected as part of the Current Population Survey (CPS), a monthly sample survey of about 60,000 households that provides statistics on employment and unemployment in the United States. The collection of data on persons with a disability is sponsored by
the Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy.
Also: Students with Disabilities at Degree-Granting Postsecondary Institutions from National Center for Education Statistics.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Cities Beyond the Horizon
An article about what urban is.
"The CIA Factbook...puts the United States’ urbanization rate at 82%, or about 255 million people, but what does that really mean? According the U.S. Department of Transportation...tells us that “[a]n urbanized area is comprised of one or more places and the adjacent densely settled surrounding area together include at least 50,000 people.” A nebulous definition, at best."
"The CIA Factbook...puts the United States’ urbanization rate at 82%, or about 255 million people, but what does that really mean? According the U.S. Department of Transportation...tells us that “[a]n urbanized area is comprised of one or more places and the adjacent densely settled surrounding area together include at least 50,000 people.” A nebulous definition, at best."
American Time Use Survey - 2010 Results
Bureau of Labor Statistics [PDF]
In 2010, 82 percent of employed persons worked on an average weekday, compared with 35 percent on an average weekend day, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. The American Time Use Survey (ATUS) data include the average amount of time per day in 2010 that individuals worked, did household activities, and engaged in leisure and sports activities. Additionally, measures of the average time per day spent providing childcare —both as a main activity and while doing other things — for the combined years 2006-10 are provided.
In 2010, 82 percent of employed persons worked on an average weekday, compared with 35 percent on an average weekend day, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. The American Time Use Survey (ATUS) data include the average amount of time per day in 2010 that individuals worked, did household activities, and engaged in leisure and sports activities. Additionally, measures of the average time per day spent providing childcare —both as a main activity and while doing other things — for the combined years 2006-10 are provided.
Friday, July 1, 2011
County Business Patterns: 2009
Census Bureau Reports U.S. Employer Firms Show Declines in Number of Establishments and Employees
In 2009, businesses with paid employees numbered 7.4 million, a decline of 168,000 establishments from 2008, marking the second consecutive year of decline, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Further, between 2008 and 2009, employment dropped 5.3 percent, a decrease of more than 6 million employees, for a total of 114,509,626.
In 2008, the number of establishments decreased by about 104,000, although the number of employees increased by almost 300,000.
These findings are from County Business Patterns: 2009, which provides the only detailed annual information on the number of establishments, employees, and first-quarter and annual payroll for most of the 1,100 industries covered at the national, state and county levels.
The statistics are broken down according to employment-size classes (for example, number of establishments with one to four employees) and legal form of organization (for example, corporations and partnerships).
In 2009, businesses with paid employees numbered 7.4 million, a decline of 168,000 establishments from 2008, marking the second consecutive year of decline, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Further, between 2008 and 2009, employment dropped 5.3 percent, a decrease of more than 6 million employees, for a total of 114,509,626.
In 2008, the number of establishments decreased by about 104,000, although the number of employees increased by almost 300,000.
These findings are from County Business Patterns: 2009, which provides the only detailed annual information on the number of establishments, employees, and first-quarter and annual payroll for most of the 1,100 industries covered at the national, state and county levels.
The statistics are broken down according to employment-size classes (for example, number of establishments with one to four employees) and legal form of organization (for example, corporations and partnerships).
Emergency Department Visits in Rural and Non-Rural Community Hospitals, 2008
From the http://www.hcup-us.ahrq.gov/reports/statbriefs/sb116.pdf Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality
Emergency departments (EDs) are an important consideration in today’s health policy dialogue. Previous studies note that annual ED visits have increased over time, while reimbursement for emergency care by insurers has steadily decreased. These challenges are magnified in rural areas, which typically have fewer health care resources, including medical staff, facilities, adequate financing, and modern technologies. More information is needed on the patient and hospital attributes of rural ED visits to further improve the emergency and overall care of rural patients.
This Statistical Brief presents data on the use of EDs in rural areas from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) Nationwide Emergency Department Sample (NEDS). The information focuses on patient and hospital characteristics of rural and non-rural emergency department visits in the United States in 2008. Variations in the most frequently listed conditions for adults and children are also discussed.
Emergency departments (EDs) are an important consideration in today’s health policy dialogue. Previous studies note that annual ED visits have increased over time, while reimbursement for emergency care by insurers has steadily decreased. These challenges are magnified in rural areas, which typically have fewer health care resources, including medical staff, facilities, adequate financing, and modern technologies. More information is needed on the patient and hospital attributes of rural ED visits to further improve the emergency and overall care of rural patients.
This Statistical Brief presents data on the use of EDs in rural areas from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) Nationwide Emergency Department Sample (NEDS). The information focuses on patient and hospital characteristics of rural and non-rural emergency department visits in the United States in 2008. Variations in the most frequently listed conditions for adults and children are also discussed.
Going to the Beach?
If you're going to the beach this summer, use these resources to help you plan ahead:
Beach Safety -- Learn about rip currents and other beach dangers to be aware of.
Sun Protection -- Use sunscreen, clothing, and sunglasses to protect your skin from the dangerous and aging effects of UV radiation.
Coastal Water Temperatures -- Find out how warm (or cold) the water will be in the area you'll be visiting.
Weather Forecast -- Check the forecast as it may affect your beach plans.
You received
Beach Safety -- Learn about rip currents and other beach dangers to be aware of.
Sun Protection -- Use sunscreen, clothing, and sunglasses to protect your skin from the dangerous and aging effects of UV radiation.
Coastal Water Temperatures -- Find out how warm (or cold) the water will be in the area you'll be visiting.
Weather Forecast -- Check the forecast as it may affect your beach plans.
You received
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