A report by the Pew Center on the States (PDF) concludes that 13 states are leading the way in generating much-needed answers about tax incentives’ effectiveness. Twelve states have mixed results. Half the states have not taken the basic steps needed to know whether their incentives are effective. The study highlights a wealth of promising approaches states have taken to help lawmakers find those answers.
New York is in the middle group.
Press release.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Monday, April 30, 2012
Hispanic or Latino?
When asked whether they prefer the term "Hispanic" or "Latino," the 51 percent majority of Hispanics do not have a preference. One-third prefers Hispanic and 14 percent prefer Latino, according to a survey by Pew Hispanic Center.
This is a sampling of a post published in the past few weeks in Cheryl Russell's Demo Memo blog.
This is a sampling of a post published in the past few weeks in Cheryl Russell's Demo Memo blog.
Fat Demographics
The percentage of Americans who are overweight varies surprisingly little by demographic characteristic--meaning the great majority of just about everyone is overweight, according to Obesity in America, an analysis of data collected by the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. National Center for Health Statistics.
Overall, 65 percent of the population aged 20 or older is overweight (a figure that includes the obese). There is almost no demographic segment in which the number of people who are overweight does not greatly surpass the number with a healthy weight. In fact, there are only two demographic segments in which being overweight is not the norm. One segment is "non-Hispanic other/multiple races," a group that includes Asians (48% overweight). The other is the youngest age group, aged 20 to 24 (45% overweight).
Whether you are man (72% overweight) or woman (59%), black (72%) or white (65%), middle aged (71%) or old (67%), high school dropout (70%) or college graduate (60%), rich (64%) or poor (66%), chances are you're fat.
per American Consumers Newsletter
Overall, 65 percent of the population aged 20 or older is overweight (a figure that includes the obese). There is almost no demographic segment in which the number of people who are overweight does not greatly surpass the number with a healthy weight. In fact, there are only two demographic segments in which being overweight is not the norm. One segment is "non-Hispanic other/multiple races," a group that includes Asians (48% overweight). The other is the youngest age group, aged 20 to 24 (45% overweight).
Whether you are man (72% overweight) or woman (59%), black (72%) or white (65%), middle aged (71%) or old (67%), high school dropout (70%) or college graduate (60%), rich (64%) or poor (66%), chances are you're fat.
per American Consumers Newsletter
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Housing Stock: Year Built
Despite the flurry of construction during the housing bubble, the percentage of the nation's 132 million housing units that were built between 2000 and 2010 is only slightly greater than the percentage built during the 1980s and 1990s, according to the Census Bureau's American Community Survey. Take a look at the distribution of the nation's housing units by the decade they were built...
2000s: 14.8%
1990s: 13.9%
1980s: 14.0%
1970s: 16.0%
1960s: 11.1%
1950s: 10.9%
Earlier: 19.2%
per American Consumers Newsletter
2000s: 14.8%
1990s: 13.9%
1980s: 14.0%
1970s: 16.0%
1960s: 11.1%
1950s: 10.9%
Earlier: 19.2%
per American Consumers Newsletter
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Estimates for Multinational Companies: Employment, Sales, and Capital Expenditures for 2010
The following are 2010 advanced and 2009 revised summary estimates of the employment, capital spending, and sales activity of U.S. multinational companies (comprising both their U.S. and foreign operations) and the corresponding activity of foreign multinational companies in the United States.
Worldwide employment by U.S. multinational companies (MNCs) increased 0.5 percent in 2010, to 34.0 million workers, with increases in both the United States and abroad. Employment in the United States by U.S. parent companies increased 0.1 percent, to 23.0 million workers, which contrasted with a 0.6 percent decrease in total private-industry employment in the United States. The employment by U.S. parents accounted for roughly one-fifth of total U.S. employment in private industries. Abroad, employment by the majority-owned foreign affiliates of U.S. MNCs increased 1.5 percent, to 11.0 million workers.
Worldwide capital expenditures by U.S. MNCs increased 3.9 percent in 2010, to $621 billion. Capital expenditures in the United States by U.S. parent companies increased 3.3 percent, to $447 billion. Capital expenditures abroad by their majority- owned foreign affiliates increased 5.5 percent, to $173 billion.
Worldwide employment by U.S. multinational companies (MNCs) increased 0.5 percent in 2010, to 34.0 million workers, with increases in both the United States and abroad. Employment in the United States by U.S. parent companies increased 0.1 percent, to 23.0 million workers, which contrasted with a 0.6 percent decrease in total private-industry employment in the United States. The employment by U.S. parents accounted for roughly one-fifth of total U.S. employment in private industries. Abroad, employment by the majority-owned foreign affiliates of U.S. MNCs increased 1.5 percent, to 11.0 million workers.
Worldwide capital expenditures by U.S. MNCs increased 3.9 percent in 2010, to $621 billion. Capital expenditures in the United States by U.S. parent companies increased 3.3 percent, to $447 billion. Capital expenditures abroad by their majority- owned foreign affiliates increased 5.5 percent, to $173 billion.
Friday, April 27, 2012
Prison Happy
From the American Consumers Newsletter
Americans are singularly obsessed with imprisonment. No other country puts as many people behind bars. The number of people in custody in the nation's local jails and state or federal prisons more than tripled between 1985 and 2010, growing from 744,208 to 2.3 million, according to the Sourcebook of Criminal Justice Statistics. The rate of imprisonment more than doubled during the time period, climbing from 313 to 731 incarcerations per 100,000 population.
Americans are singularly obsessed with imprisonment. No other country puts as many people behind bars. The number of people in custody in the nation's local jails and state or federal prisons more than tripled between 1985 and 2010, growing from 744,208 to 2.3 million, according to the Sourcebook of Criminal Justice Statistics. The rate of imprisonment more than doubled during the time period, climbing from 313 to 731 incarcerations per 100,000 population.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Profile of U.S. Importing and Exporting Companies, 2009 - 2010
The U.S. Census Bureau, Department of Commerce, releases the report, A Profile of U.S. Importing and Exporting Companies, 2009 - 2010 (PDF). It provides information on identified companies and their known export or import value. Identified U.S. companies are defined as companies that can be linked to import or export transactions. The known value is the value of export or import
transactions linked to specific companies. The increases in known export and import values correspond with the overall increase of trade in 2010; total export value rose by 21.0 percent and total import value increased by 22.7 percent. The
number of identified exporters increased by 6.0 percent in 2010 and the known export value increased by 21.0 percent compared to 2009. The number of identified importers increased by 1.0 percent in 2010 and the known import value increased by 24.4 percent.
transactions linked to specific companies. The increases in known export and import values correspond with the overall increase of trade in 2010; total export value rose by 21.0 percent and total import value increased by 22.7 percent. The
number of identified exporters increased by 6.0 percent in 2010 and the known export value increased by 21.0 percent compared to 2009. The number of identified importers increased by 1.0 percent in 2010 and the known import value increased by 24.4 percent.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
U.S. Naturalizations: 2011
Naturalization is the process by which U.S. citizenship is conferred upon foreign citizens or nationals after fulfilling the requirements established by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). After naturalization, foreign-born citizens enjoy nearly all the same benefits, rights and responsibilities that the Constitution gives to native-born U.S. citizens, including the right to vote. This Office of Immigration Statistics Annual Flow Report (PDF) presents information on the number and characteristics of foreign nationals aged 18 years and over who were naturalized during 2011.
Data were obtained from administrative records of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of the Department of Homeland Security. These records consist of information from applications for naturalization.
In 2011, the total number of persons naturalizing was 694,193. The leading countries of birth of new citizens were Mexico (94,783), India (45,985), the Philippines (42,520), the People’s Republic of China (32,864), and Colombia (22,693). The largest number of persons naturalizing lived in California (151,183), Florida (87,309), and New York (76,603).
***
Unauthorized Immigrants: 11.5 Million
The number of unauthorized immigrants in the United States changed little between 2010 and 2011, according to new estimates by the Department of Homeland Security. As of January 2011, an estimated 11.5 million unauthorized immigrants were in the country, about the same as the 11.6 million in January 2010 (this figure has been revised upward from 10.8 million based on 2010 census weights). The number of unauthorized immigrants grew 36 percent between 2000 and 2011, from 8,460,000 to 11,510,000.
But the Net Migration from Mexico Falls to Zero—and Perhaps Less (PDF)
The largest wave of immigration in history from a single country to the United States has come to a standstill. After four decades that brought 12 million current immigrants—more than half of whom came illegally—the net migration flow from Mexico to the United States has stopped—and may have reversed, according to a new analysis by the Pew Hispanic Center of multiple government data sets from both countries.
The standstill appears to be the result of many factors, including the weakened U.S. job and housing construction markets, heightened border enforcement, a rise in deportations, the growing dangers associated with illegal border crossings, the long-term decline in Mexico’s birth rates and changing economic conditions in Mexico.
Data were obtained from administrative records of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) of the Department of Homeland Security. These records consist of information from applications for naturalization.
In 2011, the total number of persons naturalizing was 694,193. The leading countries of birth of new citizens were Mexico (94,783), India (45,985), the Philippines (42,520), the People’s Republic of China (32,864), and Colombia (22,693). The largest number of persons naturalizing lived in California (151,183), Florida (87,309), and New York (76,603).
***
Unauthorized Immigrants: 11.5 Million
The number of unauthorized immigrants in the United States changed little between 2010 and 2011, according to new estimates by the Department of Homeland Security. As of January 2011, an estimated 11.5 million unauthorized immigrants were in the country, about the same as the 11.6 million in January 2010 (this figure has been revised upward from 10.8 million based on 2010 census weights). The number of unauthorized immigrants grew 36 percent between 2000 and 2011, from 8,460,000 to 11,510,000.
But the Net Migration from Mexico Falls to Zero—and Perhaps Less (PDF)
The largest wave of immigration in history from a single country to the United States has come to a standstill. After four decades that brought 12 million current immigrants—more than half of whom came illegally—the net migration flow from Mexico to the United States has stopped—and may have reversed, according to a new analysis by the Pew Hispanic Center of multiple government data sets from both countries.
The standstill appears to be the result of many factors, including the weakened U.S. job and housing construction markets, heightened border enforcement, a rise in deportations, the growing dangers associated with illegal border crossings, the long-term decline in Mexico’s birth rates and changing economic conditions in Mexico.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
State Government Tax Collections
The State Government Tax Collections (STC) report provides a summary of taxes collected by state for up to 25 tax categories. These tables and data files present the details on tax collections by type of tax imposed and collected by state governments.
Monday, April 23, 2012
Urban Population Up 12 Percent
Although Americans tend to think of themselves as small town or even rural in character, a look at the Census Bureau's newly released classification of urban and rural populations based on 2010 census data shows how wrong they are. In 2010, fully 80.7 percent of Americans lived in an urban area. Not only are most Americans urban dwellers, but the urban population is growing faster than the rural population. Between 2000 and 2010, the urban population grew 12.1 percent, more than the 9.7 percent national growth rate and far outpacing the 7.3 percent increase in the rural population.
Many people use the terms urban and metropolitan interchangeably. In fact, urban is a much more precise definition of city life. Metropolitan areas are broad brush, comprised of groups of counties, many of which contain rural areas. In contrast, urban areas are a far higher resolution of lifestyle, comprised of census tracts or blocks that are home to at least 2,500 people. Once the Census Bureau defines urban areas (which it does every 10 years), rural areas are the remainder. Despite our overwhelming urbanity, many Americans continue to think rural. That may be because 97 percent of the nation's land area is rural. Only 3 percent is urban. But 249 million Americans are crammed into that 3 percent.
per American Consumers Newsletter
Many people use the terms urban and metropolitan interchangeably. In fact, urban is a much more precise definition of city life. Metropolitan areas are broad brush, comprised of groups of counties, many of which contain rural areas. In contrast, urban areas are a far higher resolution of lifestyle, comprised of census tracts or blocks that are home to at least 2,500 people. Once the Census Bureau defines urban areas (which it does every 10 years), rural areas are the remainder. Despite our overwhelming urbanity, many Americans continue to think rural. That may be because 97 percent of the nation's land area is rural. Only 3 percent is urban. But 249 million Americans are crammed into that 3 percent.
per American Consumers Newsletter
The Gender Wage Gap by Occupation
Source: Institute for Women's Policy Research
From the report:
Women’s median earnings are lower than men’s in nearly all occupations, whether they work in occupations predominantly done by women, occupations predominantly done by men, or occupations with a more even mix of men and women. During 2011, median weekly earnings for female full-time workers were $684, compared with $832 per week for men, a gender wage ratio of 82.2 percent. Added to the gender wage gap within occupations is the gender wage gap between occupations. Male-dominated occupations tend to pay more than female-dominated occupations at similar skill levels, particularly at higher levels of educational attainment. Tackling occupational segregation is an important part of tackling the gender wage gap.
Link to full report
From the report:
Women’s median earnings are lower than men’s in nearly all occupations, whether they work in occupations predominantly done by women, occupations predominantly done by men, or occupations with a more even mix of men and women. During 2011, median weekly earnings for female full-time workers were $684, compared with $832 per week for men, a gender wage ratio of 82.2 percent. Added to the gender wage gap within occupations is the gender wage gap between occupations. Male-dominated occupations tend to pay more than female-dominated occupations at similar skill levels, particularly at higher levels of educational attainment. Tackling occupational segregation is an important part of tackling the gender wage gap.
Link to full report
Sunday, April 22, 2012
New Blogs from the Environmental Protection Agency
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently launched some new blogs or made changes to old ones.
It's Our Environment – This blog is the EPA's general blog for engaging all readers about a wide variety of environmental topics.
State of the Environment Photo Project – This blog collects images of our lives and our planet. Share your thoughts and your photos.
The Eco Student – EPA employees, educators, and students age 13 years and older blog about the great things students are doing and can do to help the environment.
It All Starts With Science – EPA scientists and engineers, their partners, and support staff write about their work to better understand the relationship between people and the environment.
Environmental Justice in Action – Find resources for educating and communicating about actions and ideas that advance the mission of environmental justice.
Find other blogs about the environment on USA.gov.
It's Our Environment – This blog is the EPA's general blog for engaging all readers about a wide variety of environmental topics.
State of the Environment Photo Project – This blog collects images of our lives and our planet. Share your thoughts and your photos.
The Eco Student – EPA employees, educators, and students age 13 years and older blog about the great things students are doing and can do to help the environment.
It All Starts With Science – EPA scientists and engineers, their partners, and support staff write about their work to better understand the relationship between people and the environment.
Environmental Justice in Action – Find resources for educating and communicating about actions and ideas that advance the mission of environmental justice.
Find other blogs about the environment on USA.gov.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Federal Funds for Research and Development: FY 2008–10
This report...presents data collected by the Survey of Federal Funds for Research and Development for the federal
FY 2008–10. In December 2009 the survey was sent to all federal agencies identified as conducting R&D programs, and 27 agencies reported R&D funding levels as of the second quarter of FY 2008. The basis for reporting is determined by fiscal year.
FY 2008 data are completed transactions
FY 2009 data are estimates of congressional appropriation actions and apportionment
and reprogramming decisions
FY 2010 data are estimates of administration budget proposals not yet acted on
More HERE (PDF)
FY 2008–10. In December 2009 the survey was sent to all federal agencies identified as conducting R&D programs, and 27 agencies reported R&D funding levels as of the second quarter of FY 2008. The basis for reporting is determined by fiscal year.
FY 2008 data are completed transactions
FY 2009 data are estimates of congressional appropriation actions and apportionment
and reprogramming decisions
FY 2010 data are estimates of administration budget proposals not yet acted on
More HERE (PDF)
Friday, April 20, 2012
Fertility of Men and Women Aged 15–44 Years in the US
This report estimates of different fertility measures for both men and women in the United States for the period 2006–2010. Fertility refers to the number of live births that occur to an individual. In 2008, there were 4.2 million births in the United States. The average fertility of women in the United States was about seven children at the beginning of the 19th century, it declined slowly and by 1960 it was 3.7 children per woman (2,3). Fertility in the United States dropped to its lowest point in 1976 at an average of 1.7 children per woman and has remained relatively stable at around 2.1 children per woman.
While fertility in the United States has remained stable since the 1970s, there is variation by subgroups including age, race, ethnicity, education, and measures of socioeconomic status. Researchers have often examined the intermediate characteristics that help to explain fertility such as fecundity (the ability to have children), timing of sexual intercourse, time spent in sexual relationships, and use of contraception. Others have looked at timing of fertility, the composition of those who have children, the number of children born, the union status at childbirth, etc.
More here (PDF).
While fertility in the United States has remained stable since the 1970s, there is variation by subgroups including age, race, ethnicity, education, and measures of socioeconomic status. Researchers have often examined the intermediate characteristics that help to explain fertility such as fecundity (the ability to have children), timing of sexual intercourse, time spent in sexual relationships, and use of contraception. Others have looked at timing of fertility, the composition of those who have children, the number of children born, the union status at childbirth, etc.
More here (PDF).
Thursday, April 19, 2012
The poorest county in each state
Most are rural, many are tiny, and a few are huge and urban. The median household income for these 50 counties also varies widely.
The number of Americans living in poverty has been on the rise since the onset of the Great Recession, as many households have seen their incomes drop and their debts mount during the past few years.
More than 15% of the population lived in poverty in 2010, the highest percentage since 1993, according to the most recent data from the Census Bureau. That means more than 46 million people fell below the poverty line, defined as $22,314 for a family of four.
MainStreet combed through the data to find the county in each state with the highest overall poverty rate.
New York's poorest county: Bronx
•Poverty rate: 30%
•Poverty rate of residents under 18: 42.2%
•Median household income: $32,674
One of New York's five boroughs, Bronx County stands out because of its high property values and low median household income. The median owner-occupied home value is more than $80,000 higher than the median state value, while the poverty rate is significantly higher than the state's overall rate.
The number of Americans living in poverty has been on the rise since the onset of the Great Recession, as many households have seen their incomes drop and their debts mount during the past few years.
More than 15% of the population lived in poverty in 2010, the highest percentage since 1993, according to the most recent data from the Census Bureau. That means more than 46 million people fell below the poverty line, defined as $22,314 for a family of four.
MainStreet combed through the data to find the county in each state with the highest overall poverty rate.
New York's poorest county: Bronx
•Poverty rate: 30%
•Poverty rate of residents under 18: 42.2%
•Median household income: $32,674
One of New York's five boroughs, Bronx County stands out because of its high property values and low median household income. The median owner-occupied home value is more than $80,000 higher than the median state value, while the poverty rate is significantly higher than the state's overall rate.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Correlation or Causation? Statistics are easy...
Need to prove something you already believe? Statistics are easy: All you need are two graphs and a leading question
Correlation may not imply causation, but it sure can help us insinuate it.
Graphics here.
Correlation may not imply causation, but it sure can help us insinuate it.
Graphics here.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Readers value extra editing, women especially
Readers view well-edited articles as more professional, more valuable and of higher quality than articles that have been minimally edited, according to new data presented at the American Society of Copy Editors conference in New Orleans...
This was the latest data from a project Vultee began in 2010 as an ACES initiative to measure reader perceptions of the value of editing in online articles. (Read a brief summary of last year’s findings here.)
The continued loss of copy editors at news organizations due to layoffs and buyouts has created a need for organizations like ACES to collect data that helps convey the value of the people who focus on editing content, rather than creating it.
More HERE.
This was the latest data from a project Vultee began in 2010 as an ACES initiative to measure reader perceptions of the value of editing in online articles. (Read a brief summary of last year’s findings here.)
The continued loss of copy editors at news organizations due to layoffs and buyouts has created a need for organizations like ACES to collect data that helps convey the value of the people who focus on editing content, rather than creating it.
More HERE.
Monday, April 16, 2012
10 most expensive U.S. cities
People in these urban areas pay top dollar for practically everything. Is your city on this list?
(A bit of a cheat, since three of the "cities" in New York State aren't cities at all!)
(A bit of a cheat, since three of the "cities" in New York State aren't cities at all!)
Friday, April 13, 2012
Message from Dr. Groves
With mixed emotions, I am writing to let you know that I have been asked to become the next provost of Georgetown University, and I have made the difficult decision to accept that position, beginning in late August 2012.
While I am honored by this rare personal and professional opportunity to help lead Georgetown to even greater heights than it already enjoys, I must also tell you that I am enormously proud of the work we have accomplished together over the past three years.
Together, we have begun transforming the Census Bureau to better face the challenges ahead. I am confident that the current leadership of the Census Bureau is devoted to carrying the shared vision forward — that this agency will continue to provide the key economic and social statistical information the country so deeply needs, with cost-efficient excellence. For the next four months I will do all I can to continue the innovations we have together begun.
I have been honored to work with you. You are truly a set of talented, skilled, committed folks who are working to make this a better place for future generations.
There is much to do in the coming months here at the Bureau. I look forward to working with all of you.
Bob
While I am honored by this rare personal and professional opportunity to help lead Georgetown to even greater heights than it already enjoys, I must also tell you that I am enormously proud of the work we have accomplished together over the past three years.
Together, we have begun transforming the Census Bureau to better face the challenges ahead. I am confident that the current leadership of the Census Bureau is devoted to carrying the shared vision forward — that this agency will continue to provide the key economic and social statistical information the country so deeply needs, with cost-efficient excellence. For the next four months I will do all I can to continue the innovations we have together begun.
I have been honored to work with you. You are truly a set of talented, skilled, committed folks who are working to make this a better place for future generations.
There is much to do in the coming months here at the Bureau. I look forward to working with all of you.
Bob
Thursday, April 12, 2012
The Internal Revenue Service 2011 Data Book
Letter from the Commissioner
The 2011 Internal Revenue Service Data Book [PDF] details IRS activities for Fiscal Year 2011 (October 1, 2010, through September 30, 2011). This annual report catalogs the many ways in which our dedicated employees serve the American taxpayer.
During Fiscal Year 2011, the IRS processed more than 234 million returns, including individual income, corporate income, and employment income tax returns. We provided nearly $416 billion in refunds to these taxpayers and collected $2.4 trillion in Federal revenue.
We provided taxpayer assistance through 319 million visits to IRS.gov and assisted nearly 83 million taxpayers via our toll-free telephone helpline or at walk-in sites. Of the more than 143 million individual income tax returns processed, 77 percent were filed electronically.
The 2011 Internal Revenue Service Data Book [PDF] details IRS activities for Fiscal Year 2011 (October 1, 2010, through September 30, 2011). This annual report catalogs the many ways in which our dedicated employees serve the American taxpayer.
During Fiscal Year 2011, the IRS processed more than 234 million returns, including individual income, corporate income, and employment income tax returns. We provided nearly $416 billion in refunds to these taxpayers and collected $2.4 trillion in Federal revenue.
We provided taxpayer assistance through 319 million visits to IRS.gov and assisted nearly 83 million taxpayers via our toll-free telephone helpline or at walk-in sites. Of the more than 143 million individual income tax returns processed, 77 percent were filed electronically.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Death Sentences and Executions 2011
From The Use of the Death Penalty in 2011:
The USA was the only country in the G8 to have carried out executions in 2011. Three countries in the G20 carried out executions in 2011: China, Saudi Arabia and the USA.
The USA and Belarus were the only two of the 56 Member States of the Organization for Security and Co- operation in Europe to have carried out executions in 2011.
The USA was the only country in the G8 to have carried out executions in 2011. Three countries in the G20 carried out executions in 2011: China, Saudi Arabia and the USA.
The USA and Belarus were the only two of the 56 Member States of the Organization for Security and Co- operation in Europe to have carried out executions in 2011.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Information and Communication Technology Survey
These statistics, based on the 2007 North American Industry
Classification System, estimate capitalized and noncapitalized spending
in 2010 for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) equipment and
computer software at the sector level, as well as for three-digit and
selected four-digit industries.
Rapid advances in ICT equipment result in these assets having short useful lives and being replaced at a much faster rate than other types of equipment. As a result
Rapid advances in ICT equipment result in these assets having short useful lives and being replaced at a much faster rate than other types of equipment. As a result
Monday, April 9, 2012
First Marriages in the United States: Data From the 2006–2010 National Survey of Family Growth
From the National Center for Health Statistics [PDF]-
This report shows trends and group differences in current marital status, with a focus on first marriages among women and men aged 15–44 years in the United States. Trends and group differences in the timing and duration of first marriages are also discussed. These data are based on the 2006–2010 National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG).
This report shows trends and group differences in current marital status, with a focus on first marriages among women and men aged 15–44 years in the United States. Trends and group differences in the timing and duration of first marriages are also discussed. These data are based on the 2006–2010 National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG).
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, 2012 Annual Report
Source: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
From the publication web page:
From the publication web page:
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is pleased to submit to Congress its first annual report summarizing its activities to administer the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, during the past year. These activities represent the Bureau’s inaugural effort to curtail deceptive, unfair, and abusive debt collection practices in the marketplace prohibited by the FDCPA.
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Politicization of Science in the Public Sphere: A Study of Public Trust in the US, 1974-2010
Source: American Sociological Review
This study explores time trends in public trust in science in the United States from 1974 to 2010. More precisely, the author, Gordon Gauchat, tests Mooney’s (2005) claim that conservatives in the United States have become increasingly distrustful of science.
This study explores time trends in public trust in science in the United States from 1974 to 2010. More precisely, the author, Gordon Gauchat, tests Mooney’s (2005) claim that conservatives in the United States have become increasingly distrustful of science.
Friday, April 6, 2012
New York among best prepared for climate change
A new report from the Natural Resources Defense Council says New York is among the too-low number of states to have made substantial progress needed to address the causes and effects of climate change and its effect on water management...
"The effects of climate change can already be seen across New York in the form of warmer temperatures, more frequent extreme precipitation events, and higher sea levels. These trends are projected to intensify in the future, leading to reduced snow cover and increased risks of flooding, summertime droughts, and coastal inundation. Because the state has the second-highest coastal population in the U.S.,1 sea level rise is expected to be particularly damaging. New York has responded proactively to these challenges by reducing greenhouse gas pollution and planning for climate change impacts. A wealth of adaptation strategies have been identified by the New York State Climate Action Council, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s ClimAID project, and the New York State Sea Level Rise Task Force. While these planning efforts are a vital step in ensuring that the state is prepared for climate change, adaptation ultimately hinges upon effective implementation, and it is not yet clear how state agencies will move forward on implementation. New York should prioritize and support the implementation of adaptation strategies by state agencies across all sectors to minimize its vulnerability to climate change."
Summary of the report: Water Readiness Issue Brief
Full report (321 pages): Water Readiness Full Report
More HERE
"The effects of climate change can already be seen across New York in the form of warmer temperatures, more frequent extreme precipitation events, and higher sea levels. These trends are projected to intensify in the future, leading to reduced snow cover and increased risks of flooding, summertime droughts, and coastal inundation. Because the state has the second-highest coastal population in the U.S.,1 sea level rise is expected to be particularly damaging. New York has responded proactively to these challenges by reducing greenhouse gas pollution and planning for climate change impacts. A wealth of adaptation strategies have been identified by the New York State Climate Action Council, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s ClimAID project, and the New York State Sea Level Rise Task Force. While these planning efforts are a vital step in ensuring that the state is prepared for climate change, adaptation ultimately hinges upon effective implementation, and it is not yet clear how state agencies will move forward on implementation. New York should prioritize and support the implementation of adaptation strategies by state agencies across all sectors to minimize its vulnerability to climate change."
Summary of the report: Water Readiness Issue Brief
Full report (321 pages): Water Readiness Full Report
More HERE
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Occupational Outlook Handbook
Welcome to the Nation′s premier source for career information! The
profiles featured here cover hundreds of occupations and describe What
They Do, Work Environment, How to Become One, Pay, and more. Each
profile also includes BLS employment projections for the 2010–20 decade.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
County-to-County Migration Flows
The American Community Survey (ACS) and the Puerto Rico Community Survey (PRCS) ask respondents age 1 year and over whether they lived in the same residence 1 year ago. For people who lived in a different residence, the location of their previous residence is collected.
ACS uses a series of monthly samples to produce estimates. Estimates for geographies of population 65,000 or greater are published annually using these monthly samples.
ACS uses a series of monthly samples to produce estimates. Estimates for geographies of population 65,000 or greater are published annually using these monthly samples.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Racing and Wagering Board releases two databases
The New York State Racing and Wagering Board released two comprehensive and searchable databases to the public: a detailed list of every horse that has broken down, died, sustained a serious injury or been involved in an incident at a track in New York State since 2009; and a list of every fine and suspension issued by the Board to licensees for nearly three decades.
Both databases - The Equine Breakdown, Death, Injury and Incident Database and the The Racing and Wagering Board Rulings Database - will be updated promptly as data submitted by field staff at each track is logged in by Racing and Wagering Board investigative staff.
Both databases - The Equine Breakdown, Death, Injury and Incident Database and the The Racing and Wagering Board Rulings Database - will be updated promptly as data submitted by field staff at each track is logged in by Racing and Wagering Board investigative staff.
Monday, April 2, 2012
State Personal Income 2011
State personal income rose an average 5.1 percent in 2011 after rising 3.7 percent in 2010, according to estimates released today by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. State personal income growth ranged from 3.4 percent in Maine to 8.1 percent in North Dakota.
Friday, March 30, 2012
Research @ Census
From HERE:
Keeping pace with our dynamic economy and society constantly challenges the Census Bureau's data collections. Our users want more data, and want it sooner. The cost of using our existing methods keeps going up, while statistical budgets are tight. We stay current by making research the basis of everything we do at the Census Bureau. Our researchers explore innovative ways to conduct surveys, increase respondent participation, reduce costs, and improve accuracy. They analyze the data we collect and uncover trends that give us a deeper understanding of our complex society.
This investment in our nation's statistical infrastructure enables our leaders to make decisions based on the best information available. We've designed these pages to give analysts, academic researchers and policymakers improved access to the data tools and research they need to move our country forward.
Keeping pace with our dynamic economy and society constantly challenges the Census Bureau's data collections. Our users want more data, and want it sooner. The cost of using our existing methods keeps going up, while statistical budgets are tight. We stay current by making research the basis of everything we do at the Census Bureau. Our researchers explore innovative ways to conduct surveys, increase respondent participation, reduce costs, and improve accuracy. They analyze the data we collect and uncover trends that give us a deeper understanding of our complex society.
This investment in our nation's statistical infrastructure enables our leaders to make decisions based on the best information available. We've designed these pages to give analysts, academic researchers and policymakers improved access to the data tools and research they need to move our country forward.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Census Bureau Releases First Information Since 2000 Census on Moves Between Counties
The U.S. Census Bureau released estimates from the American Community Survey showing how many people migrated from one specific county to another during the course of a year ─ the first such numbers published since these data were collected as part of the 2000 Census.
The ACS compiles data over a five-year period and asks people where they lived one year prior to being surveyed. The first five-year estimates released covers the years from 2005 to 2009.
The 2005-2009 American Community Survey County-to-County Migration Files provide tables for each county in the nation, showing both "inflows" and "outflows."
The ACS compiles data over a five-year period and asks people where they lived one year prior to being surveyed. The first five-year estimates released covers the years from 2005 to 2009.
The 2005-2009 American Community Survey County-to-County Migration Files provide tables for each county in the nation, showing both "inflows" and "outflows."
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
New media: increased news consumption; perils of classifying as public utilities
The State of the News Media 2012
A mounting body of evidence finds that the spread of mobile technology is adding to news consumption, strengthening the appeal of traditional news brands and even boosting reading of long-form journalism. But the evidence also shows that technology companies are strengthening their grip on who profits, according to the 2012 State of the News Media report by Pew Research Center's Project for Excellence in Journalism.
More than a quarter of Americans (27%) now get news on mobile devices, and for the vast majority, this is increasing news consumption, the report finds. More than 80% of smartphone and tablet news consumers still get news on laptop or desktop computers. On mobile devices, news consumers also are more likely to go directly to a news site or use an app, rather than to rely on search — strengthening the bond with traditional news brands.
***
The Perils Of Classifying Social Media Platforms As Public Utilities
Are social networking sites like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter "information monopolies" that should be regulated as public utilities? While calls for social networking regulation are on the rise, there are good reasons why policymaker should avoid the rush and rethink classifying them as "public utilities." Public utility regulation has traditionally been the arch-enemy of innovation, and this could have lasting effects on such a dynamic industry. Treating today’s leading social media providers as essential facilities threatens to convert predictions of "natural monopoly" into a self-fulfilling prophecy.
***
The Web Is Dead? No. Experts expect apps and the Web to converge in the cloud; but many worry that simplicity for users will come at a price.
Tech experts generally believe the mobile revolution, the popularity of targeted apps, the monetization of online products and services, and innovations in cloud computing will drive Web evolution. Some survey respondents say while much may be gained, perhaps even more may be lost if the “appification” of the Web comes to pass.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Searching Your US Military Ancestry With Newly Released Records
by Cara Meadows
Following on from this important article on the release of the 1940 US Census here, Ancestry.com has paved the way for even more in-depth family history research with the release of a set of vitally important War Service Records dating from as far back as 1850. These records are a great and vital resource to anyone wanting to trace the more recent history of their ancestors and also trace the military pasts of their forebears much further back.
With Family History, Genealogy and Military History in particular becoming an increasingly popular hobby for many people, researchers are opting to take genealogical vacations in different countries rather than other pursuits such as going on a Mediterranean Cruise or a long beach vacation somewhere. This rise in popularity has seen a concurrent rise in demand for online services and also increasing access to archives and repositories all over the US.
New Record Releases
The US Department of Veterans Affairs BIRLS (Beneficiary Identification Records Locater Subsystem) Death Records contain some 14,465,024 entries starting in the year 1850 and coming as far forward as 2010.
Following on from this important article on the release of the 1940 US Census here, Ancestry.com has paved the way for even more in-depth family history research with the release of a set of vitally important War Service Records dating from as far back as 1850. These records are a great and vital resource to anyone wanting to trace the more recent history of their ancestors and also trace the military pasts of their forebears much further back.
With Family History, Genealogy and Military History in particular becoming an increasingly popular hobby for many people, researchers are opting to take genealogical vacations in different countries rather than other pursuits such as going on a Mediterranean Cruise or a long beach vacation somewhere. This rise in popularity has seen a concurrent rise in demand for online services and also increasing access to archives and repositories all over the US.
New Record Releases
The US Department of Veterans Affairs BIRLS (Beneficiary Identification Records Locater Subsystem) Death Records contain some 14,465,024 entries starting in the year 1850 and coming as far forward as 2010.
Monday, March 26, 2012
Celebrate Women's History Month
Visit WomensHistoryMonth.gov to learn about generations of women who've made invaluable contributions to society.
You'll find:
Historical photos depicting women in the workforce from about 1916-1954.
An interactive game called Flight to Freedom that allows you to take on the role of Lucy, a 14-year-old slave in Kentucky in 1848.
A webcast of Annie Leibovitz's talk at the American Art Museum about her photo exhibition, Annie Leibovitz: Pilgrimage.
And more...
Saturday, March 24, 2012
TweetCongress
From the site:
We the Tweeple of the United States, in order to form a more perfect government, establish communication, and promote transparency do hereby tweet the Congress of the United States of America.
We built this site to scratch our own itch. While searching for our local congressmen on Twitter we were amazed at how many folks on the Hill aren't tweeting. This site is a grass-roots effort to get our men and women in Congress to open up and have a real conversation with us.
We the Tweeple of the United States, in order to form a more perfect government, establish communication, and promote transparency do hereby tweet the Congress of the United States of America.
We built this site to scratch our own itch. While searching for our local congressmen on Twitter we were amazed at how many folks on the Hill aren't tweeting. This site is a grass-roots effort to get our men and women in Congress to open up and have a real conversation with us.
Friday, March 23, 2012
'World's Most Ethical Companies' Revealed
Turns out successful businesses aren't concerned only with their bottom line..
Ethisphere Institute, which compiled the list, says it based its rankings on the following factors: ethics and compliance programs; reputation, leadership and innovation; governance; corporate citizenship and responsibility; and culture of ethics.
(VIA here.)
Ethisphere Institute, which compiled the list, says it based its rankings on the following factors: ethics and compliance programs; reputation, leadership and innovation; governance; corporate citizenship and responsibility; and culture of ethics.
(VIA here.)
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Steve Morse Genealogy site
From SteveMorse.org
"In the 'old days' genealogical research was done by traveling great distances and then going through dusty archives or using microfilm readers. But the advent of the World Wide Web has changed that. Today much of the data useful to genealogists has been put on websites and can be accessed from the comfort of home.
"Unfortunately, many of these websites are not easy to use. And those that are don’t always offer all the versatility that is possible. For that reason I have created alternate ways of accessing some of these websites. In addition I have developed some of my own databases and programs to facilitate doing genealogical research. These are all collected together under what I call the One-Step website."
As a colleague noted, "It is not a sanctioned Census Bureau site, but the links it contains are very useful. In particular, if you click on the US Census Bureau, you will find a link to the 72 year rule, there is a great explanation of the reasons for it, and they are not what you are thinking."
"In the 'old days' genealogical research was done by traveling great distances and then going through dusty archives or using microfilm readers. But the advent of the World Wide Web has changed that. Today much of the data useful to genealogists has been put on websites and can be accessed from the comfort of home.
"Unfortunately, many of these websites are not easy to use. And those that are don’t always offer all the versatility that is possible. For that reason I have created alternate ways of accessing some of these websites. In addition I have developed some of my own databases and programs to facilitate doing genealogical research. These are all collected together under what I call the One-Step website."
As a colleague noted, "It is not a sanctioned Census Bureau site, but the links it contains are very useful. In particular, if you click on the US Census Bureau, you will find a link to the 72 year rule, there is a great explanation of the reasons for it, and they are not what you are thinking."
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Renewable Electricity and Nuclear State Profiles
The State Renewable Electricity Profiles 2010 present a summary of current and recent historical data for the renewable electric power industry. Presented are net summer capacity and net generation data for each type of renewable generator, as well as fossil-fired and nuclear power plant types, for the period 2006 through 2010.
The objective of this set of profiles is to provide a concise overview of the renewable electric power industry in each state. Data in this report are compiled from surveys filed by electric utilities and other electric power producers. It is prepared by the Office of Electricity, Renewables, and Uranium Statistics; Office of Energy Statistics; U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA); U.S. Department of Energy.
DocuTicker's description:
The Nuclear State Profiles report consists of data tables for the nuclear power plants in each U.S. state. Standard reported data includes a plant's summer capacity, net generation, share of the state's generation, and identification of the plant owners. For each state, the report provides a breakdown of the state's primary energy sources, such as nuclear, coal, and natural gas.
The objective of this set of profiles is to provide a concise overview of the renewable electric power industry in each state. Data in this report are compiled from surveys filed by electric utilities and other electric power producers. It is prepared by the Office of Electricity, Renewables, and Uranium Statistics; Office of Energy Statistics; U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA); U.S. Department of Energy.
DocuTicker's description:
The Nuclear State Profiles report consists of data tables for the nuclear power plants in each U.S. state. Standard reported data includes a plant's summer capacity, net generation, share of the state's generation, and identification of the plant owners. For each state, the report provides a breakdown of the state's primary energy sources, such as nuclear, coal, and natural gas.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Income Inequality and Economic Mobility
by Steven Aftergood
Income inequality in the United States is more pronounced than in other developed countries, a new report from the Congressional Research Service finds, while the possibility of economic mobility is more constrained than commonly believed.
“Based on the limited data that are comparable across nations, the U.S. income distribution appears to be among the most uneven of all major industrialized countries and the United States appears to be among the nations experiencing the greatest increases in measures of inequality.”
“Americans may be less concerned about inequality in the distribution of income at any given point in time partly because of a belief that everyone has an equal opportunity to move up the income ladder. A review of the literature suggests that Americans’ perceptions about their likelihood of changing position in the income distribution may be exaggerated,” the CRS report said.
More here
Income inequality in the United States is more pronounced than in other developed countries, a new report from the Congressional Research Service finds, while the possibility of economic mobility is more constrained than commonly believed.
“Based on the limited data that are comparable across nations, the U.S. income distribution appears to be among the most uneven of all major industrialized countries and the United States appears to be among the nations experiencing the greatest increases in measures of inequality.”
“Americans may be less concerned about inequality in the distribution of income at any given point in time partly because of a belief that everyone has an equal opportunity to move up the income ladder. A review of the literature suggests that Americans’ perceptions about their likelihood of changing position in the income distribution may be exaggerated,” the CRS report said.
More here
Monday, March 19, 2012
8 states get 'F' on corruption
From Politico:
Michigan, North Dakota, South Carolina, Maine, Virginia, Wyoming, South Dakota and Georgia received failing grades in the State Integrity Investigation – an analysis of all 50 state governments conducted by the Center for Public Integrity, Global Integrity and Public Radio International.
With not a single state getting an A grade, just five states earned a B: New Jersey, Connecticut, Washington, California and Nebraska; while 19 states received Cs and 18 [including New York] earned Ds.
Michigan, North Dakota, South Carolina, Maine, Virginia, Wyoming, South Dakota and Georgia received failing grades in the State Integrity Investigation – an analysis of all 50 state governments conducted by the Center for Public Integrity, Global Integrity and Public Radio International.
With not a single state getting an A grade, just five states earned a B: New Jersey, Connecticut, Washington, California and Nebraska; while 19 states received Cs and 18 [including New York] earned Ds.
Friday, March 16, 2012
Leading U.S. Metro Areas in Optimism (my hometown is dead last)
From here:
"While the vast majority of Americans express satisfaction about the community or area where they live, residents of some metro areas are highly optimistic about where their community is headed, whereas residents of other communities are largely discouraged. Across 190 U.S. metro areas, residents of Provo-Orem, Utah, are the most likely nationwide to say their city or area is getting better as a place to live (76%), while residents of Binghamton, N.Y., are the least likely to say this (27.8%)."
From here:
Gallup and Healthways produce a biannual report on the Well-Being of each of the 50 U.S. states and their respective cities and an annual report on each of the 435 U.S. congressional districts. Here's the New York State report.
"While the vast majority of Americans express satisfaction about the community or area where they live, residents of some metro areas are highly optimistic about where their community is headed, whereas residents of other communities are largely discouraged. Across 190 U.S. metro areas, residents of Provo-Orem, Utah, are the most likely nationwide to say their city or area is getting better as a place to live (76%), while residents of Binghamton, N.Y., are the least likely to say this (27.8%)."
From here:
Gallup and Healthways produce a biannual report on the Well-Being of each of the 50 U.S. states and their respective cities and an annual report on each of the 435 U.S. congressional districts. Here's the New York State report.
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Household Income Inequality Within U.S. Counties: 2006-2010
This report [PDF] presents measures of household income inequality for counties in the United States, based on data pooled from 5 years (2006 to 2010) of American Community Survey (ACS) data. For example, the data show that the more unequal counties were also more populous. Thirty-four percent of Americans lived in a county that ranked in the top 20 percent of U.S. counties by Gini index (the Gini index is a measure of income inequality).
In every region, the counties in the most unequal fifth of U.S. counties accounted for a disproportionately large share of that region's population. For example, only 8 percent of Midwestern counties had Gini indexes ranking among the top fifth of U.S. counties, but they contained 26 percent of the region's population. Also, the South region had a disproportionately large number of counties with high income inequality, while counties in the Midwest had lower levels of income inequality. Specifically, 32 percent of the counties in the South had Gini indexes ranking among the top fifth of U.S. counties, while 31 percent of Midwest counties ranked among the bottom fifth of U.S. counties.
In every region, the counties in the most unequal fifth of U.S. counties accounted for a disproportionately large share of that region's population. For example, only 8 percent of Midwestern counties had Gini indexes ranking among the top fifth of U.S. counties, but they contained 26 percent of the region's population. Also, the South region had a disproportionately large number of counties with high income inequality, while counties in the Midwest had lower levels of income inequality. Specifically, 32 percent of the counties in the South had Gini indexes ranking among the top fifth of U.S. counties, while 31 percent of Midwest counties ranked among the bottom fifth of U.S. counties.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Comparing International Criminal Justice Systems
"This briefing was prepared for the House of Commons Justice Committee to provide an international dimension to its inquiry into the budget and structure of the Ministry of Justice in England and Wales...
"We selected a range of advanced democratic nations for our detailed work, including some common law and non-common law jurisdictions, countries from the European Union and the Commonwealth, and some with reputations either for liberal or punitive justice systems. To enhance our understanding of the United States of America, for which only limited data are available at the federal level, we also included the state of California within our analyses."
"We selected a range of advanced democratic nations for our detailed work, including some common law and non-common law jurisdictions, countries from the European Union and the Commonwealth, and some with reputations either for liberal or punitive justice systems. To enhance our understanding of the United States of America, for which only limited data are available at the federal level, we also included the state of California within our analyses."
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Cartoo - how far, by foot, bicycle, or car
Webapp Cartoo uses Google Maps to predict how far you can travel by foot, bicycle, or car from a given point and specific window of time. Put in a city, or street address, and it maps it out !
Monday, March 12, 2012
Where gold comes from
Statistics from the February Smithsonian.
Top 10 gold producers - 2011 estimate in tons:
China 391
Australia 298
United States 261
Russia 220
South Africa 209
Peru 165
Canada 121
Ghana 110
Indonesia 110
Uzbekistan 99
Top 10 gold producers - 2011 estimate in tons:
China 391
Australia 298
United States 261
Russia 220
South Africa 209
Peru 165
Canada 121
Ghana 110
Indonesia 110
Uzbekistan 99
Friday, March 9, 2012
NYPL Eases the Way For Searching 1940 Census
The National Archives releases census records once a decade, and on April 2 it is making available the information from the 1940 census. But the records won't immediately be searchable by name.
For those whose relatives lived in New York City, the New York Public Library is aiming to make it simpler to search this holy grail of information about what life was like during periods such as the Great Depression and the lead-up to World War II.
The library is launching an online tool to allow users to type in names and, potentially, locate census forms listing a host of details on every person living in the family household at the time of the census.
More HERE.
For those whose relatives lived in New York City, the New York Public Library is aiming to make it simpler to search this holy grail of information about what life was like during periods such as the Great Depression and the lead-up to World War II.
The library is launching an online tool to allow users to type in names and, potentially, locate census forms listing a host of details on every person living in the family household at the time of the census.
More HERE.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Old Maps Online
A collection of historical maps from around the world has gone online. The JISC-funded website is described by its creators as “the broadest single collection of historical maps.” The site will act as a central repository to a collection of maps held by institutions across the globe. The free resource, oldmapsonline.org, will provide a single entry point.
Read more HERE.
Read more HERE.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
The Law of Incorrect Tweets
Initial, inaccurate information will be retweeted more than any subsequent correction.
The goal should be to make the correction as viral as the mistake. But that’s a challenge, and Tuesday at Harvard’s Truthiness in Digital Media conference, {Craig Silverman] saw (for the first time) what it looks like when we fail...
If you understand the dynamic, you may be more likely to change it. One cause: Incorrect information is bound to be more provocative and interesting than a correction. The other cause is that too little attention is paid to making corrections on Twitter.
More HERE.
The goal should be to make the correction as viral as the mistake. But that’s a challenge, and Tuesday at Harvard’s Truthiness in Digital Media conference, {Craig Silverman] saw (for the first time) what it looks like when we fail...
If you understand the dynamic, you may be more likely to change it. One cause: Incorrect information is bound to be more provocative and interesting than a correction. The other cause is that too little attention is paid to making corrections on Twitter.
More HERE.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Press release on (the potentially disastrous) Voluntary ACS bill
March 5, 2012
Honorable Trey Gowdy, Chairman
Honorable Danny Davis, Ranking Member
Subcommittee on Health Care, District of Columbia,
Census and National Archives
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Chairman Gowdy and Congressman Davis:
We are writing to express our strong concern about proposals to convert the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS) from a mandatory to a voluntary survey. We believe such a change would significantly increase the cost of the ACS; at a time of fiscal constraint, lack of sufficient resources could diminish the quality of ACS data to a point where the information is not useful for a myriad of critical public and private sector purposes. We know that your panel will review this issue at a hearing on March 6, 2012, and respectfully ask that the subcommittee include our letter in the official hearing record.
The Census Project is a non-partisan, ad-hoc, broad-based coalition of census stakeholders. The Project’s participants include data users in the business, housing, civil rights, academic and research, civic participation, child advocate, state and local government, and marketing sectors. Our common purpose is simple: To
educate policymakers and the public about the importance of high quality, cost effective and appropriately comprehensive census data for sound decision-making at all levels of government and in the private and non-profit sectors. (The ACS is part of the decennial census.)
Concerned about respondent burden and the propriety of the questions, Congress directed the Census Bureau to explore the possibility of making the ACS voluntary in 2003. In two reports1 and several more recent analyses, the bureau concluded that mail response rates to a voluntary ACS would drop "dramatically," by more than 20 percentage points. That decline, in turn, would force the bureau to use more costly modes of data collection, such as telephone and door-to-door visits, thereby increasing the cost of the survey by thirty percent ($60 million at the time of the 2003 field test). Congress, in the current fiscal climate, is unlikely to increase funding for the ACS by the amount necessary to overcome low initial response rates, leaving the Census Bureau with insufficient response to produce reliable data for smaller (e.g. rural communities; towns; urban neighborhoods) areas and population groups (e.g. people with disabilities; veterans; immigrant groups). The consequence would be greatly diminished quality of ACS data. The test also showed that the percent of completed interviews (conducted if a household fails to mail back a form) fell significantly if the survey was voluntary, adding to the problem of data reliability.
Perhaps not surprisingly, cooperation in traditionally low mail response areas (which tend to equate with hard-to-count communities, such as people of color, low income families, and rural households) declined even further when ACS response was voluntary. Interestingly, a significantly higher percentage of traditionally easier-to-count populations, such as non-Hispanic Whites, failed to respond during the mail and telephone phases of the ACS. These findings suggest that the quality of estimates produced from a voluntary ACS would be severely jeopardized for all segments of the population and all types of communities.
The importance of high-quality, objective, and universal ACS data for public and private sector decision-makers cannot be overstated. The federal government alone allocates more than $450 billion annually in program funds to state and local governments based in whole or in part on ACS data.(2) Federal law, directly or indirectly, requires all of the information gathered in the ACS (i.e. Congress requested the data directly, or created a program that relies on data for implementation, enforcement, or monitoring, and the census or ACS are the only sources). We should not jeopardize the fair and wise allocation of limited taxpayer dollars by undermining the only source of reliable data to guide those allocations, not to mention decisions on whether even to continue certain programs.
In addition, the Voting Rights Act relies on ACS data to make determinations under section 203, which requires jurisdictions with a high percentage of people who are not English language proficient to offer bilingual voting materials. Both the government and business sector rely on ACS data to help ensure appropriate employment opportunities for racial minorities, disabled persons, and veterans.
Equally important, businesses of all sizes rely on ACS data every day to make vital decisions about where to locate and expand, what goods and services to offer, the scope of employee training needed, and long term investment opportunities. Nonprofit organizations use the ACS to guide services to those most in need and to measure the success of their programs.
For these reasons, we urge your subcommittee to view any proposal to make the American Community Survey voluntary with great caution. Such a change would have serious adverse consequences that could leave the nation in a precarious decision-making vacuum and hinder its economic recovery and future growth.
Sincerely,
American Association of Public Opinion Research
American Sociological Association
American Statistical Association
Asian American Justice Center, member of Asian American Center for Advancing
Justice
Association of Population Centers
Association of Public Data Users (APDU)
Charlotte (N.C.) Chamber of Commerce
Coalition on Human Needs
Community Action Partnership
Consortium of Social Science Associations
Council for Community & Economic Research (C2ER)
Council of Professional Associations on Federal Statistics
CREW Network
Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights
Marketing Research Association (MRA)
National Association for Business Economics
National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) Educational
Fund
National Congress of American Indians
National Education Association
National Multi Housing Council
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency
Population Association of America
Population Reference Bureau
Prison Policy Initiative
Project Vote
South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT)
Southeast Michigan Census Council
1. “Meeting 21st Century Data Needs - Implementing the American Community Survey, Report 3: Testing the Use of Voluntary Methods” (Dec. 2003) (http://www.census.gov/acs/www/Downloads/Report03.pdf) and an update,
“Report 11: Testing Voluntary Methods -- Additional Results” (Dec. 2004)
(http://www.census.gov/acs/www/Downloads/Report11.pdf).
2. Reamer, Andrew, “Surveying for Dollars: The Role of the American Community Survey in the Geographic Distribution of Federal Funds,” The Brookings Institution, July 2010.
A project of the Communications Consortium Media Center
401 Ninth Street NW, Suite 450, Washington, DC 20004
202.326.8700
www.TheCensusProject.org
Honorable Trey Gowdy, Chairman
Honorable Danny Davis, Ranking Member
Subcommittee on Health Care, District of Columbia,
Census and National Archives
Committee on Oversight and Government Reform
Washington, DC 20515
Dear Chairman Gowdy and Congressman Davis:
We are writing to express our strong concern about proposals to convert the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS) from a mandatory to a voluntary survey. We believe such a change would significantly increase the cost of the ACS; at a time of fiscal constraint, lack of sufficient resources could diminish the quality of ACS data to a point where the information is not useful for a myriad of critical public and private sector purposes. We know that your panel will review this issue at a hearing on March 6, 2012, and respectfully ask that the subcommittee include our letter in the official hearing record.
The Census Project is a non-partisan, ad-hoc, broad-based coalition of census stakeholders. The Project’s participants include data users in the business, housing, civil rights, academic and research, civic participation, child advocate, state and local government, and marketing sectors. Our common purpose is simple: To
educate policymakers and the public about the importance of high quality, cost effective and appropriately comprehensive census data for sound decision-making at all levels of government and in the private and non-profit sectors. (The ACS is part of the decennial census.)
Concerned about respondent burden and the propriety of the questions, Congress directed the Census Bureau to explore the possibility of making the ACS voluntary in 2003. In two reports1 and several more recent analyses, the bureau concluded that mail response rates to a voluntary ACS would drop "dramatically," by more than 20 percentage points. That decline, in turn, would force the bureau to use more costly modes of data collection, such as telephone and door-to-door visits, thereby increasing the cost of the survey by thirty percent ($60 million at the time of the 2003 field test). Congress, in the current fiscal climate, is unlikely to increase funding for the ACS by the amount necessary to overcome low initial response rates, leaving the Census Bureau with insufficient response to produce reliable data for smaller (e.g. rural communities; towns; urban neighborhoods) areas and population groups (e.g. people with disabilities; veterans; immigrant groups). The consequence would be greatly diminished quality of ACS data. The test also showed that the percent of completed interviews (conducted if a household fails to mail back a form) fell significantly if the survey was voluntary, adding to the problem of data reliability.
Perhaps not surprisingly, cooperation in traditionally low mail response areas (which tend to equate with hard-to-count communities, such as people of color, low income families, and rural households) declined even further when ACS response was voluntary. Interestingly, a significantly higher percentage of traditionally easier-to-count populations, such as non-Hispanic Whites, failed to respond during the mail and telephone phases of the ACS. These findings suggest that the quality of estimates produced from a voluntary ACS would be severely jeopardized for all segments of the population and all types of communities.
The importance of high-quality, objective, and universal ACS data for public and private sector decision-makers cannot be overstated. The federal government alone allocates more than $450 billion annually in program funds to state and local governments based in whole or in part on ACS data.(2) Federal law, directly or indirectly, requires all of the information gathered in the ACS (i.e. Congress requested the data directly, or created a program that relies on data for implementation, enforcement, or monitoring, and the census or ACS are the only sources). We should not jeopardize the fair and wise allocation of limited taxpayer dollars by undermining the only source of reliable data to guide those allocations, not to mention decisions on whether even to continue certain programs.
In addition, the Voting Rights Act relies on ACS data to make determinations under section 203, which requires jurisdictions with a high percentage of people who are not English language proficient to offer bilingual voting materials. Both the government and business sector rely on ACS data to help ensure appropriate employment opportunities for racial minorities, disabled persons, and veterans.
Equally important, businesses of all sizes rely on ACS data every day to make vital decisions about where to locate and expand, what goods and services to offer, the scope of employee training needed, and long term investment opportunities. Nonprofit organizations use the ACS to guide services to those most in need and to measure the success of their programs.
For these reasons, we urge your subcommittee to view any proposal to make the American Community Survey voluntary with great caution. Such a change would have serious adverse consequences that could leave the nation in a precarious decision-making vacuum and hinder its economic recovery and future growth.
Sincerely,
American Association of Public Opinion Research
American Sociological Association
American Statistical Association
Asian American Justice Center, member of Asian American Center for Advancing
Justice
Association of Population Centers
Association of Public Data Users (APDU)
Charlotte (N.C.) Chamber of Commerce
Coalition on Human Needs
Community Action Partnership
Consortium of Social Science Associations
Council for Community & Economic Research (C2ER)
Council of Professional Associations on Federal Statistics
CREW Network
Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights
Marketing Research Association (MRA)
National Association for Business Economics
National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) Educational
Fund
National Congress of American Indians
National Education Association
National Multi Housing Council
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency
Population Association of America
Population Reference Bureau
Prison Policy Initiative
Project Vote
South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT)
Southeast Michigan Census Council
1. “Meeting 21st Century Data Needs - Implementing the American Community Survey, Report 3: Testing the Use of Voluntary Methods” (Dec. 2003) (http://www.census.gov/acs/www/Downloads/Report03.pdf) and an update,
“Report 11: Testing Voluntary Methods -- Additional Results” (Dec. 2004)
(http://www.census.gov/acs/www/Downloads/Report11.pdf).
2. Reamer, Andrew, “Surveying for Dollars: The Role of the American Community Survey in the Geographic Distribution of Federal Funds,” The Brookings Institution, July 2010.
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www.TheCensusProject.org
Monday, March 5, 2012
Pew Hispanic Center Statistical Portraits
Statistical Portrait of Hispanics in the United States, 2010
and
Statistical Portrait of the Foreign-Born Population in the United States, 2010
These statistical profiles are "based on Pew Hispanic Center tabulations of the Census Bureau’s 2010 American Community Survey (ACS). Users should exercise caution when comparing the 2010 estimates with estimates for previous years. Population estimates in the 2010 ACS are based on the latest information from the 2010 Decennial Census; the 2005 to 2009 ACS estimates are based on the latest information available for those surveys—updates of the 2000 Decennial Census."
and
Statistical Portrait of the Foreign-Born Population in the United States, 2010
These statistical profiles are "based on Pew Hispanic Center tabulations of the Census Bureau’s 2010 American Community Survey (ACS). Users should exercise caution when comparing the 2010 estimates with estimates for previous years. Population estimates in the 2010 ACS are based on the latest information from the 2010 Decennial Census; the 2005 to 2009 ACS estimates are based on the latest information available for those surveys—updates of the 2000 Decennial Census."
Friday, March 2, 2012
What we thought we knew about income and happiness
DESPITE global economic gloom, the world is a happier place than it was before the financial crisis began. That is the counterintuitive conclusion of a poll of 19,000 adults in 24 countries by Ipsos, a research company. Some 77% of respondents now describe themselves as happy, up three points on 2007, the last year before the crisis. Fully 22% (up from 20%) describe themselves as very happy—a more important measure, says Ipsos’s John Wright, since whenever three-quarters of people agree on anything, “you need to pay attention to intensity in the results.”
All such polls come with a health warning.
More HERE.
All such polls come with a health warning.
More HERE.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Transparency: New York State Payroll Updated on SeeThroughNY
New Yorkers can now search the complete 2011 state government payroll on SeeThroughNY, the Empire Center's government transparency website. The database includes names, titles, base pay rates, and total pay received by 288,539 employees...
To read the full release, click here.
To view the database, click here.
To read the full release, click here.
To view the database, click here.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Members of Congress: Trends in Characteristics Since 1945
Questions about the characteristics of Members of Congress, including their age, education, previous occupations, and other descriptors, are of ongoing interest to Members, congressional staff, and constituents. Some of these questions may be asked in the context of representation, in efforts to evaluate the extent to which Members of Congress reflect their constituencies and the nation at large. In other instances, questions arise about how the characteristics of Members have changed over time, which may speak in part to the history of Congress.
Members in 2011 are older, more likely to identify a religious affiliation, and include more women and members of racial and ethnic groups than Members in 1945. The data presented in this report suggest that since the 79th Congress, Members have had high levels of education, and worked in professional positions prior to coming to Congress. The number of Members who previously served in the military has risen and fallen, largely in tandem with the levels of service in the broader population.
Representatives and Senators: Trends in Member Characteristics Since 1945
Members in 2011 are older, more likely to identify a religious affiliation, and include more women and members of racial and ethnic groups than Members in 1945. The data presented in this report suggest that since the 79th Congress, Members have had high levels of education, and worked in professional positions prior to coming to Congress. The number of Members who previously served in the military has risen and fallen, largely in tandem with the levels of service in the broader population.
Representatives and Senators: Trends in Member Characteristics Since 1945
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Survey of Mining Companies: 2011/2012
Since 1997, the Fraser Institute has conducted an annual survey of metal mining and exploration companies to assess how mineral endowments and public policy factors such as taxation and regulation affect exploration investment. Survey results represent the opinions of executives and exploration managers in mining and mining consulting companies operating around the world. The survey now covers 93 jurisdictions around the world, on every continent except Antarctica, including sub-national jurisdictions in Canada, Australia, Argentina, and the United States.
Full report HERE [PDF] .
Full report HERE [PDF] .
Monday, February 27, 2012
Indicators of School Crime and Safety
National Center for Education Statistics - Bureau of Justice Statistics
Our nation’s schools should be safe havens for teaching and learning, free of crime and violence. Any instance of crime or violence at school not only affects the individuals involved, but also may disrupt the educational process and affect bystanders, the school itself, and the surrounding community.
Establishing good indicators of the current state of school crime and safety across the nation and regularly updating and monitoring these indicators is important in ensuring the safety of our nation’s students. This is the aim of Indicators of School Crime and Safety.
Our nation’s schools should be safe havens for teaching and learning, free of crime and violence. Any instance of crime or violence at school not only affects the individuals involved, but also may disrupt the educational process and affect bystanders, the school itself, and the surrounding community.
Establishing good indicators of the current state of school crime and safety across the nation and regularly updating and monitoring these indicators is important in ensuring the safety of our nation’s students. This is the aim of Indicators of School Crime and Safety.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Fertility Rates, Costly Medical Conditions, and Obesity
National Center for Health Statistics - Recent Trends in Births and Fertility Rates Through June 2011 [PDF]
The provisional count of births in the United States for the 12-month period ending June 2011 was 3,978,000, which was 2 percent lower than the provisional count of 4,057,000 for the 12-month period ending June 2010. This continues the decline in the number of births from the all-time high of 4,316,233 in 2007; the rate of decline appears to have slowed from January 2011 to June 2011.
The provisional fertility rate in the United States for the 12-month period ending June 2011 declined as well, down 2 percent to 64.4 births per 1,000 women aged 15–44 from 65.5 for the 12-month period ending June 2010. This continues the decline in the fertility rate from the 17-year high of 69.5 in 2007, but again, the rate of decline appears to have slowed in the first 6 months of 2011.
Medical Expenditure Panel Survey - The Concentration of Health Care Expenditures and Related Expenses for Costly Medical Conditions, 2009 [PDF]
In 2009, health care expenses among the U.S. community population totaled $1.26 trillion. Medical care expenses, however, are highly concentrated among a relatively small proportion of individuals in the community population. As reported previously in 1996, the top 1 percent of the U.S. population accounted for 28 percent of the total health care expenditures and the top 5 percent for more than half. More recent data have revealed that over time there has been some decrease in the extent of this concentration at the upper tail of the expenditure distribution. Furthermore, medical expenditures have been concentrated for the treatment of certain types of highly prevalent conditions or for which treatment often entails the use of high-cost services
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development - Obesity Update 2012 [PDF]
The obesity epidemic slowed down in several OECD countries during the past three years. Rates grew less than previously projected, or did not grow at all, according to new data from ten OECD countries. Child obesity rates also stabilised in England, France, Korea and United States. However, rates remain high and social disparities in obesity are unabated. Many governments have stepped up efforts to tackle the root causes of obesity, embracing increasingly comprehensive strategies and involving
communities and key stakeholders. There has been a new interest in the use of taxes on foods rich in fat and sugar, with several governments (e.g. Denmark, Finland, France, Hungary) passing new legislation in 2011.
The provisional count of births in the United States for the 12-month period ending June 2011 was 3,978,000, which was 2 percent lower than the provisional count of 4,057,000 for the 12-month period ending June 2010. This continues the decline in the number of births from the all-time high of 4,316,233 in 2007; the rate of decline appears to have slowed from January 2011 to June 2011.
The provisional fertility rate in the United States for the 12-month period ending June 2011 declined as well, down 2 percent to 64.4 births per 1,000 women aged 15–44 from 65.5 for the 12-month period ending June 2010. This continues the decline in the fertility rate from the 17-year high of 69.5 in 2007, but again, the rate of decline appears to have slowed in the first 6 months of 2011.
Medical Expenditure Panel Survey - The Concentration of Health Care Expenditures and Related Expenses for Costly Medical Conditions, 2009 [PDF]
In 2009, health care expenses among the U.S. community population totaled $1.26 trillion. Medical care expenses, however, are highly concentrated among a relatively small proportion of individuals in the community population. As reported previously in 1996, the top 1 percent of the U.S. population accounted for 28 percent of the total health care expenditures and the top 5 percent for more than half. More recent data have revealed that over time there has been some decrease in the extent of this concentration at the upper tail of the expenditure distribution. Furthermore, medical expenditures have been concentrated for the treatment of certain types of highly prevalent conditions or for which treatment often entails the use of high-cost services
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development - Obesity Update 2012 [PDF]
The obesity epidemic slowed down in several OECD countries during the past three years. Rates grew less than previously projected, or did not grow at all, according to new data from ten OECD countries. Child obesity rates also stabilised in England, France, Korea and United States. However, rates remain high and social disparities in obesity are unabated. Many governments have stepped up efforts to tackle the root causes of obesity, embracing increasingly comprehensive strategies and involving
communities and key stakeholders. There has been a new interest in the use of taxes on foods rich in fat and sugar, with several governments (e.g. Denmark, Finland, France, Hungary) passing new legislation in 2011.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
National Archives Announces Website for Free 1940 Census Online Release
The National Archives, with its partner Archives.com, launched its new website www.1940census.archives.gov in preparation for its first-ever online U.S. census release, which will take place on April 2, 2012, at 9 a.m. (EST). The public is encouraged to bookmark the website now in order to more quickly access the 1940 census data when it goes live. No other website will host the 1940 census data on its April 2 release date.
Full story
Full story
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Fundraising Raffle Laws, Rules, and Regulations
by Deane Brengle
In the United States and Canada all types of fundraising raffles are considered to be games of chance. Consequently, they are very tightly regulated and failure to adhere to the law is considered a serious offense. If you have any doubt about the correct procedures, do not rely on anybody's word but a government official or a lawyer knowledgeable in these matters.
In many areas there may be more than one governmental body that has jurisdiction over a fundraising raffle. It is always good to check your state/province/territory and your local government for any necessary licenses and permits.
In almost all cases an application for a license must be made to the governing unit. This application and the resulting permit may takes weeks or months to process and receive. Do not proceed to hold a fundraising raffle without having the necessary paperwork in hand.
More HERE.
In the United States and Canada all types of fundraising raffles are considered to be games of chance. Consequently, they are very tightly regulated and failure to adhere to the law is considered a serious offense. If you have any doubt about the correct procedures, do not rely on anybody's word but a government official or a lawyer knowledgeable in these matters.
In many areas there may be more than one governmental body that has jurisdiction over a fundraising raffle. It is always good to check your state/province/territory and your local government for any necessary licenses and permits.
In almost all cases an application for a license must be made to the governing unit. This application and the resulting permit may takes weeks or months to process and receive. Do not proceed to hold a fundraising raffle without having the necessary paperwork in hand.
More HERE.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
State & Local Government Jobs Continue to Decline in Most States
Recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics continue to show broad declines in state and local government employment in a majority of states, although public-sector jobs have increased elsewhere. This Data Alert examines recent changes in state and local government employment at the individual state level, as well as the national level, using several recent periods for comparison.
Using three-month employment averages to smooth short-term variations, total U.S. nonfarm employment rose by 1.4 percent over the year ending in January 2012. The growth was driven by a 2.0 increase in the private sector (+2.1 million jobs). By contrast, all the subsectors of government reported declines in employment over the year. As shown on Table 1, federal government employment declined by 1.2 percent (-35,000 jobs), state government employment by 1.5 percent (-76,000 jobs) and local government employment by 1.1 percent (-163,000 jobs).
Using three-month employment averages to smooth short-term variations, total U.S. nonfarm employment rose by 1.4 percent over the year ending in January 2012. The growth was driven by a 2.0 increase in the private sector (+2.1 million jobs). By contrast, all the subsectors of government reported declines in employment over the year. As shown on Table 1, federal government employment declined by 1.2 percent (-35,000 jobs), state government employment by 1.5 percent (-76,000 jobs) and local government employment by 1.1 percent (-163,000 jobs).
Monday, February 20, 2012
Election Administration by the Numbers
This is the first-ever report to analyze the completeness, strengths, weaknesses, and usefulness of data from sources such as state election divisions, the U.S. Census Bureau, the U.S. Election Assistance Commission and its Election Administration and Voting Survey, public opinion surveys, and expert assessments...
The Pew Center on the States has been working with state election officials, researchers, and other experts to develop measurements and tools to improve election performance. This report follows up on Data for Democracy (2008), which reviewed ways in which data could support better election management, from the local to the national level.
* Link to full report (PDF)
* Link to publication web page to download individual sections
The Pew Center on the States has been working with state election officials, researchers, and other experts to develop measurements and tools to improve election performance. This report follows up on Data for Democracy (2008), which reviewed ways in which data could support better election management, from the local to the national level.
* Link to full report (PDF)
* Link to publication web page to download individual sections
Saturday, February 18, 2012
If 2012's Oscar-nominated movie posters told the truth
It's that time of year again: the Oscar nominations are in, and the chatter has begun. Who will fail to beat George Clooney and Meryl Streep this time? In the interests of transparency, we've shopped the posters for this awards season's biggest movies so they're a little more honest about their content.
More HERE.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Census Bureau annual employment size of firm data
U.S. Census Bureau annual employment size of firm data (partially funded by the Office of Advocacy) on the number of firms, employment, firm births, deaths and job creation has been updated to 2009. As with the economy in general, small businesses struggled from 2008 to 2009. The over twenty-years of data presents opportunities to evaluate how small businesses have weathered business cycles.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
MetroTrends: up-to-date indicators from numerous data sources
The Urban Institute's report card and toolkit for researchers, students, journalists, elected officials and the public on the state of metropolitan economies. Here you'll find up-to-date charts and figures, expert commentaries and relevant, downloadable datasets.
The MetroTrends Blog has launched and brings you seasoned voices on the changes and challenges facing metropolitan America.
The MetroTrends Blog has launched and brings you seasoned voices on the changes and challenges facing metropolitan America.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Monday, February 13, 2012
Annual Capital Expenditures Survey (ACES)
PURPOSE
To provide broad-based statistics on business spending for new and used structures and equipment. United States Code, Title 13, authorizes this survey and provides for mandatory responses. The survey is also referred to as the ACES program.
COVERAGE
All domestic, private, non-farm businesses, including agricultural non-farm (NAICS Subsectors 113, 114 and 115) including nonemployer businesses. Major exclusions are foreign operations of U.S. businesses, businesses in U.S. territories, government operations (including the U.S. Postal Service), agricultural production companies, and private households.
CONTENT
Basic data for each year include expenditures on new and used structures and equipment (including added expenditure detail by type of structure, and by type of equipment in years ending in 3 and 8).
FREQUENCY
Data collection begins in mid-March and continues for 9 months; data are for activities in the prior calendar year. Basic annual data are supplemented on a 5-year cycle; 5th year supplements provide added detail by type of structure and by type of equipment. Data has been collected annually beginning with data for 1993.
More here.
To provide broad-based statistics on business spending for new and used structures and equipment. United States Code, Title 13, authorizes this survey and provides for mandatory responses. The survey is also referred to as the ACES program.
COVERAGE
All domestic, private, non-farm businesses, including agricultural non-farm (NAICS Subsectors 113, 114 and 115) including nonemployer businesses. Major exclusions are foreign operations of U.S. businesses, businesses in U.S. territories, government operations (including the U.S. Postal Service), agricultural production companies, and private households.
CONTENT
Basic data for each year include expenditures on new and used structures and equipment (including added expenditure detail by type of structure, and by type of equipment in years ending in 3 and 8).
FREQUENCY
Data collection begins in mid-March and continues for 9 months; data are for activities in the prior calendar year. Basic annual data are supplemented on a 5-year cycle; 5th year supplements provide added detail by type of structure and by type of equipment. Data has been collected annually beginning with data for 1993.
More here.
Friday, February 10, 2012
Major Work Stoppages in 2011
In 2011, there were 19 major strikes and lockouts involving 1,000 or more workers and lasting at least one shift, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported. The 19 major work stoppages in 2011 idled 113,000 workers for 1.02 million lost workdays, a large increase compared to 2010 with 11 major work stoppages idling 45,000 workers for 302,000 lost workdays. In 2009, there were record lows of 5 major work stoppages idling 13,000 workers for 124,000 lost workdays
More HERE.
More HERE.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Census Bureau Requests for Comments: partnerships, sharing data
APDU has identified several Census Bureau Requests for Comments that I think may interest you.
The first deals with Geographic Partnership Programs. This includes the Geographic Support Systems Initiative (which we’ve been hearing about, the 2010 Redistricting Data Program (some of the later phases), and the School District Review Program.
The second request covers the special census program. This program allows local governments to contract with the Census Bureau for a special census of their community. The local government pays all of the costs of these censuses.
The third request for comments is about a proposal allowing the Census Bureau to share a portion of its Business Register with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics on a confidential basis. The Census Bureau’s Business Register is the business equivalent of the Master Address File used to collect demographic data.
The first deals with Geographic Partnership Programs. This includes the Geographic Support Systems Initiative (which we’ve been hearing about, the 2010 Redistricting Data Program (some of the later phases), and the School District Review Program.
The second request covers the special census program. This program allows local governments to contract with the Census Bureau for a special census of their community. The local government pays all of the costs of these censuses.
The third request for comments is about a proposal allowing the Census Bureau to share a portion of its Business Register with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics on a confidential basis. The Census Bureau’s Business Register is the business equivalent of the Master Address File used to collect demographic data.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Census Bureau Reports Post-Recession Growth in 10 of 11 Service Sectors
The U.S. Census Bureau released its 2010 Service Annual Survey, which shows that of the nation’s 11 service sector, 10 showed an increase in revenues for employer firms between 2009 and 2010. Only the finance and insurance sector (NAICS 52) showed a loss ($27.2 billion, a loss of 0.8 percent)...
These figures are the first findings from this survey to track the revenues of services after the December 2007 to June 2009 recession. Accompanying these figures is a recent webinar that examined the revenues of selected industries for the years 2005 to 2010, covering before and after the latest recession.
The Service Annual Survey provides the most comprehensive national statistics available annually on service activity in the United States. Since 2009, the survey was expanded to collect data for all service industries, capturing 55 percent of U.S. gross domestic product (GDP). Previously, the survey accounted for only 30 percent of GDP.
Information Services Sector
Increases varied widely across service sectors. For example, the information sector (NAICS 51) increased from $1.08 trillion to $1.1 trillion. Within this sector, Internet publishing and broadcasting (NAICS 516) continued to see increased revenues, up 11.3 percent from$19.1 billion to $21.3 billion in 2010.
Television broadcasting (NAICS 51512) increased 12.0 percent from $31.6 billion to$35 billion. Cable and subscription other programming (NAICS 5152) as well as wireless telecommunications carriers (NAICS 5172) also saw increases in revenue of 7.3 percent and 5.3 percent, respectively, to $55.2 billion and $195.5 billion.
However, revenues for newspaper (NAICS 51111) and periodical publishers (NAICS 51112) continued to fall. Newspaper publishers declined by 4.6 percent to $34.7 billion, and periodical publishers declined 1.8 percent to $38.4 billion. Wired telecommunications carriers (NAICS 5171) continued to decline, falling 2.3 percent to $168.8 billion.
Other Sectors
Health care and social assistance revenue (NAICS 62) continued to increase for employer firms, rising to $1.9 trillion in 2010, an increase of 4.0 percent. Hospitals (NAICS 622) increased revenue to $822.6 billion, up 4.5 percent from 2009. Nursing and residential care facilities (NAICS 623) also rose 4.4 percent to $192.0 billion.
The finance and insurance sector (NAICS 52) had a small decline to $3.3 trillion in revenues in 2010, decreasing 0.8 percent from the prior year. Securities and commodity exchanges revenue (NAICS 5232) decreased 1.5 percent to $10.9 billion, while miscellaneous intermediation revenue (NAICS 523910) rose 16.0 percent to $23.6 billion.
Among other sectors covered by the Service Annual Survey:
-- The utilities sector (NAICS 22) showed estimated revenues of $501.7 billion, an increase of 5.0 percent from $477.6 billion in 2009.
-- Arts, entertainment and recreation (NAICS 71) increased 2.0 percent to $192 billion in revenue.
-- Revenues for the transportation and warehousing sector (NAICS 48-49) were $640.2 billion in 2010, up 7.6 percent from $595.2 billion in 2009.
-- The real estate rental and leasing sector (NAICS 53) had total revenues of $356.0 billion, up 1.8 percent from 2009. New subsectors added last year to this sector included real estate (NAICS 531) and lessors of nonfinancial intangible assets (NAICS 533). (
The 2010 Service Annual Survey (SAS) includes all or portions of NAICS Sectors 22, 48-49, 51, 52, 53, 54, 56, 61, 62, 71 and 81. The estimates provided in this release are from the 2010 Service Annual Survey based on the 2002 North American Industry Classification System. Estimates contain sampling and nonsampling errors. To keep the identity of an individual firm confidential, some estimates may be suppressed.
These figures are the first findings from this survey to track the revenues of services after the December 2007 to June 2009 recession. Accompanying these figures is a recent webinar that examined the revenues of selected industries for the years 2005 to 2010, covering before and after the latest recession.
The Service Annual Survey provides the most comprehensive national statistics available annually on service activity in the United States. Since 2009, the survey was expanded to collect data for all service industries, capturing 55 percent of U.S. gross domestic product (GDP). Previously, the survey accounted for only 30 percent of GDP.
Information Services Sector
Increases varied widely across service sectors. For example, the information sector (NAICS 51) increased from $1.08 trillion to $1.1 trillion. Within this sector, Internet publishing and broadcasting (NAICS 516) continued to see increased revenues, up 11.3 percent from$19.1 billion to $21.3 billion in 2010.
Television broadcasting (NAICS 51512) increased 12.0 percent from $31.6 billion to$35 billion. Cable and subscription other programming (NAICS 5152) as well as wireless telecommunications carriers (NAICS 5172) also saw increases in revenue of 7.3 percent and 5.3 percent, respectively, to $55.2 billion and $195.5 billion.
However, revenues for newspaper (NAICS 51111) and periodical publishers (NAICS 51112) continued to fall. Newspaper publishers declined by 4.6 percent to $34.7 billion, and periodical publishers declined 1.8 percent to $38.4 billion. Wired telecommunications carriers (NAICS 5171) continued to decline, falling 2.3 percent to $168.8 billion.
Other Sectors
Health care and social assistance revenue (NAICS 62) continued to increase for employer firms, rising to $1.9 trillion in 2010, an increase of 4.0 percent. Hospitals (NAICS 622) increased revenue to $822.6 billion, up 4.5 percent from 2009. Nursing and residential care facilities (NAICS 623) also rose 4.4 percent to $192.0 billion.
The finance and insurance sector (NAICS 52) had a small decline to $3.3 trillion in revenues in 2010, decreasing 0.8 percent from the prior year. Securities and commodity exchanges revenue (NAICS 5232) decreased 1.5 percent to $10.9 billion, while miscellaneous intermediation revenue (NAICS 523910) rose 16.0 percent to $23.6 billion.
Among other sectors covered by the Service Annual Survey:
-- The utilities sector (NAICS 22) showed estimated revenues of $501.7 billion, an increase of 5.0 percent from $477.6 billion in 2009.
-- Arts, entertainment and recreation (NAICS 71) increased 2.0 percent to $192 billion in revenue.
-- Revenues for the transportation and warehousing sector (NAICS 48-49) were $640.2 billion in 2010, up 7.6 percent from $595.2 billion in 2009.
-- The real estate rental and leasing sector (NAICS 53) had total revenues of $356.0 billion, up 1.8 percent from 2009. New subsectors added last year to this sector included real estate (NAICS 531) and lessors of nonfinancial intangible assets (NAICS 533). (
The 2010 Service Annual Survey (SAS) includes all or portions of NAICS Sectors 22, 48-49, 51, 52, 53, 54, 56, 61, 62, 71 and 81. The estimates provided in this release are from the 2010 Service Annual Survey based on the 2002 North American Industry Classification System. Estimates contain sampling and nonsampling errors. To keep the identity of an individual firm confidential, some estimates may be suppressed.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Do the dead outnumber the living?
Not even close, according to new research from the Population Reference Bureau. according to new research from the Population Reference Bureau. "There are currently seven billion people alive today and the Population Reference Bureau estimates that about 107 billion people have ever lived," according to a BBC News article. Of course, as BoingBoing NOTED, the vast majority of history is based on educated guesses. The first homo sapiens weren't too interested in acquiring census data. It wasn't until the 18th century or so that the best ongoing data was collected about such things.
Monday, February 6, 2012
Interesting NYC map on on energy consumption by block
A new study by Columbia Engineering School will help urban planners, policy makers, and engineers understand the local dynamics of building energy use in New York City—where over two-thirds of the energy consumption is from buildings—and help jumpstart the exchange of ideas.
Model Created to Map Energy Use in NYC Buildings
Model Created to Map Energy Use in NYC Buildings
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Copyright Clearance Center Announces Motion Picture License
The CCC, in partnership with the Motion Picture Licensing Corporation (MPLC), developed the Motion Picture License to meet the diverse needs of businesses and their employees and reduce the risk of unintended copyright infringement.
The Motion Picture License allows one to show motion pictures legally in an organization for sales meetings, employee training and development programs, company functions and more while respecting the rights of content creators.
More HERE.
The Motion Picture License allows one to show motion pictures legally in an organization for sales meetings, employee training and development programs, company functions and more while respecting the rights of content creators.
More HERE.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Study Reveals Gender Gap over Social Media Privacy
Most women using social media are just as willing to reveal personal information about their relationships, jobs, brand preferences and political and religious affiliations as men — but when it comes to details like phone numbers, location, and email or physical address that might put their personal security at risk, women are significantly more wary than men.
More HERE.
More HERE.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Housing Vacancies and Homeownership
Homeownership Rate (HR)
The homeownership rate in the third quarter 2011 (66.3 percent) was lower than the third quarter 2010 rate (66.9 percent). The homeownership rates in the Midwest and South were lower than their corresponding third quarter 2010 rates.
Rental Vacancy Rate (RVR)
The rental vacancy rate in the fourth quarter 2011 (9.4 percent) was approximately the same as the fourth quarter 2010 rate (9.4 percent).
Homeowner Vacancy Rate (HVR)
The homeowner vacancy rate of 2.3 percent in fourth quarter 2011 was lower than the fourth quarter 2010 rate (2.7 percent).p>
4th Qtr 2011
(HR): 66.0 percent
3rd Qtr 2011
(HR): 66.5 percent
More HERE.
The homeownership rate in the third quarter 2011 (66.3 percent) was lower than the third quarter 2010 rate (66.9 percent). The homeownership rates in the Midwest and South were lower than their corresponding third quarter 2010 rates.
Rental Vacancy Rate (RVR)
The rental vacancy rate in the fourth quarter 2011 (9.4 percent) was approximately the same as the fourth quarter 2010 rate (9.4 percent).
Homeowner Vacancy Rate (HVR)
The homeowner vacancy rate of 2.3 percent in fourth quarter 2011 was lower than the fourth quarter 2010 rate (2.7 percent).p>
4th Qtr 2011
(HR): 66.0 percent
3rd Qtr 2011
(HR): 66.5 percent
More HERE.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
State Economic Profiles 2011
The Office of Advocacy’s Small Business Profiles for the States and Territories supply data on small businesses in each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia. The publication also provides national-level data and limited data on the U.S. territories. The usefulness of the publication is the great detail it provides about small businesses at the state level. The following topics are covered: the number of firms, demographics of business ownership, small business income, banking, business turnover, industry composition, and employment gains and losses by size of business.
2011 Small Business Profiles for the States and Territories
2011 Small Business Profiles for New York State [PDF]
2011 Small Business Profiles for the States and Territories
2011 Small Business Profiles for New York State [PDF]
Monday, January 30, 2012
Market concentration: the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index calculator
"Since 1982, the U.S. Department of Justice, the Federal Trade Commission, and state attorneys general have used the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) to measure market concentration for purposes of antitrust enforcement. The HHI of a market is calculated by summing the squares of the percentage market shares held by the respective firms. For example, an industry consisting of two firms with market shares of 70% and 30% has an HHI of 70²+30², or 5800.
"According to the DOJ-FTC 2010 Horizontal Merger Guidelines, the agencies will regard a market in which the post-merger HHI is below 1500 as 'unconcentrated,' between 1500 and 2500 as 'moderately concentrated,' and above 2500 as 'highly concentrated.'"
See the tool HERE.
"According to the DOJ-FTC 2010 Horizontal Merger Guidelines, the agencies will regard a market in which the post-merger HHI is below 1500 as 'unconcentrated,' between 1500 and 2500 as 'moderately concentrated,' and above 2500 as 'highly concentrated.'"
See the tool HERE.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
How to call NYC's 311 when you're not in NYC
311 is New York City's main source of government information and non-emergency services. Whether you're a resident, business owner, or visitor, help is just a click, text, or call away.
Call 212) NEW-YORK (212-639-9675) from outside New York City.
There are also text, Skype, TTY, Twitter, and iPhone app options.
More HERE.
Call 212) NEW-YORK (212-639-9675) from outside New York City.
There are also text, Skype, TTY, Twitter, and iPhone app options.
More HERE.
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Proposed NYS Senate & Assembly districts available in GIS format
The New York State Legislative Task Force on Demographic Research and Reapportionment (commonly known as "LATFOR") has published its proposed new lines for State Senate and Assembly districts based on the decennial 2010 Census.
LATFOR posted its proposed district maps in PDF format, and also provided "block assignment lists" to delineate the proposed districts. The block lists indicate which Census blocks (the smallest level of Census geography) correspond to which district. But the Task Force didn't make the maps available in a format that you can easily use with mapping software or online maps.
In order to enable others to visualize and analyze these districts on maps, the Center for Urban Research (CUR) at the CUNY Graduate Center has converted these lists into two formats compatible with desktop and online mapping applications: "shapefiles" and KML files. (Shapefiles are commonly used by most desktop geographic information system, or GIS, software packages. KML files are used typically in Google Maps, Google Earth, and other online mapping applications.)
More HERE.
LATFOR posted its proposed district maps in PDF format, and also provided "block assignment lists" to delineate the proposed districts. The block lists indicate which Census blocks (the smallest level of Census geography) correspond to which district. But the Task Force didn't make the maps available in a format that you can easily use with mapping software or online maps.
In order to enable others to visualize and analyze these districts on maps, the Center for Urban Research (CUR) at the CUNY Graduate Center has converted these lists into two formats compatible with desktop and online mapping applications: "shapefiles" and KML files. (Shapefiles are commonly used by most desktop geographic information system, or GIS, software packages. KML files are used typically in Google Maps, Google Earth, and other online mapping applications.)
More HERE.
Friday, January 27, 2012
Global Employment Trends 2012: Preventing a deeper jobs crisis
The world faces the "urgent challenge" of creating 600 million productive jobs over the next decade in order to generate sustainable growth and maintain social cohesion, according to the annual report on global employment by the International Labour Organization (ILO).
"After three years of continuous crisis conditions in global labour markets and against the prospect of a further deterioration of economic activity, there is a backlog of global unemployment of 200 million," says the ILO in its annual report titled Global Employment Trends 2012: Preventing a deeper jobs crisis. Moreover, the report says more than 400 million new jobs will be needed over the next decade to absorb the estimated 40 million growth of the labour force each year.
"After three years of continuous crisis conditions in global labour markets and against the prospect of a further deterioration of economic activity, there is a backlog of global unemployment of 200 million," says the ILO in its annual report titled Global Employment Trends 2012: Preventing a deeper jobs crisis. Moreover, the report says more than 400 million new jobs will be needed over the next decade to absorb the estimated 40 million growth of the labour force each year.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Annual Energy Outlook 2012 - early release overview
From the Energy Information Agency
Projections in the Annual Energy Outlook 2012 (AEO2012) Reference case focus on the factors that shape U.S. energy markets in the long term, under the assumption that current laws and regulations remain generally unchanged throughout the projection period. The AEO2012 Reference case provides the basis for examination and discussion of energy market trends and serves as a starting point for analysis of potential changes in U.S. energy policies, rules, or regulations or potential technology breakthroughs.
This release is an abridged version of the Annual Energy Outlook that highlights changes in the AEO Reference case projections for key energy topics. The Early Release includes data tables for the Reference case only. The full AEO2012 will be released April 26, 2012.
Projections in the Annual Energy Outlook 2012 (AEO2012) Reference case focus on the factors that shape U.S. energy markets in the long term, under the assumption that current laws and regulations remain generally unchanged throughout the projection period. The AEO2012 Reference case provides the basis for examination and discussion of energy market trends and serves as a starting point for analysis of potential changes in U.S. energy policies, rules, or regulations or potential technology breakthroughs.
This release is an abridged version of the Annual Energy Outlook that highlights changes in the AEO Reference case projections for key energy topics. The Early Release includes data tables for the Reference case only. The full AEO2012 will be released April 26, 2012.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
The National Fish, Wildlife and Plants Climate Adaptation (draft)
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior
In response to increasing impacts of climate change and other stressors on America’s natural resources, the United States Congress has called for the development of a national, government-wide strategy to safeguard fish, wildlife, plants, and the natural systems upon which they depend.
In response to increasing impacts of climate change and other stressors on America’s natural resources, the United States Congress has called for the development of a national, government-wide strategy to safeguard fish, wildlife, plants, and the natural systems upon which they depend.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
The Internet, by the numbers
"So what happened with the Internet in 2011? How many email accounts were there in the world in 2011? How many websites? How much did the most expensive domain name cost? How many photos were hosted on Facebook? How many videos were viewed to YouTube?
"We’ve got answers to these questions and many more. A veritable smorgasbord of numbers, statistics and data lies in front of you. Using a variety of sources we’ve compiled what we think are some of the more interesting numbers that describe the Internet in 2011."
More HERE.
"We’ve got answers to these questions and many more. A veritable smorgasbord of numbers, statistics and data lies in front of you. Using a variety of sources we’ve compiled what we think are some of the more interesting numbers that describe the Internet in 2011."
More HERE.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Scarcity of women causes men to spend more, save less
A scarcity of women doesn't just dampen men's spirits — it could hurt their finances, too.
When men think they outnumber women, they borrow more, save less and make more impulse purchases, according to a study published last week by the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management.
The rest of the story HERE.
The news release about the study HERE.
When men think they outnumber women, they borrow more, save less and make more impulse purchases, according to a study published last week by the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management.
The rest of the story HERE.
The news release about the study HERE.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Thursday, January 19, 2012
2012 Presidential Primaries, Caucuses, and Conventions
Here is a chronological list of all the Republican and Democratic presidential primaries, caucuses, and conventions in 2012.
There are data to the states' rules. For instance:
Tuesday 24 April 2012 (tentative): 81 of 95 of New York's delegates to the Republican National Convention (3? from each of the state's 28 Congressional Districts) are allocated to presidential contenders in today's New York Presidential Primary.
There are also links to state constitutions, election authority (e.g. state Board of Elections), legislature, political parties and media.
There are data to the states' rules. For instance:
Tuesday 24 April 2012 (tentative): 81 of 95 of New York's delegates to the Republican National Convention (3? from each of the state's 28 Congressional Districts) are allocated to presidential contenders in today's New York Presidential Primary.
There are also links to state constitutions, election authority (e.g. state Board of Elections), legislature, political parties and media.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Men Rule: The Continued Under-Representation of Women in U. S. Politics
Study after study finds that, when women run for office, they perform just as well as their male counterparts. No differences emerge in women and men’s fundraising receipts, vote totals, or electoral success. Yet women remain severely under-represented in U.S. political institutions. We argue that the fundamental reason for women’s under-representation is that they do not run for office. There is a substantial gender gap in political ambition; men tend to have it, and women don’t.
More HERE [PDF].
(Thanks to Dustbury.
More HERE [PDF].
(Thanks to Dustbury.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Friday, January 13, 2012
Thursday, January 12, 2012
New Files Make American FactFinder Your One Stop for Key Census Bureau Data
The new American FactFinder, the U.S. Census Bureau’s statistics and information search engine introduced one year ago, has been updated with files formerly found in its “legacy” version. Users now have access to more than 60 important data sets in the new FactFinder English interface and 14 data sets in the Spanish interface.
“Users no longer have to navigate between two Web tools,” Census Bureau Director Robert Groves said. “They now have one stop for the most important data sets from the Census Bureau.”
Nearly all of the information from the older version has been uploaded to the new American FactFinder website. At your fingertips, you now will have access to more than 250 billion data cells and statistics for more than —
- 40,000 tables
- 1,500 population groups and tribes
- 80,000 business and industry codes
- 12 million geographies for each decennial census
The new American FactFinder provides users with one-stop access to results from the decennial census (2010 and 2000), the economic census (2002 and 2007), American Community Survey, population estimates and key annual economic surveys. American FactFinder has statistics on a variety of topics, such as income, poverty, education, and housing.
Census staff are aware of customer issues with the new American Fact Finder and are working on both short term and long term solutions to address these issues, improve search and navigation, and enhance customer satisfaction
Eventually, the 2010 Census Equal Employment Opportunity File, the American Housing Survey and the census of governments statistics will be released through the new American FactFinder.
This expansion has permitted the Census Bureau to retire the original version of American FactFinder on Jan. 20 after 12 years of service. Several files will be available only on the Census Bureau FTP (file transfer protocol) site.
Any deep links or bookmarks in the older version of American FactFinder no longer work. The Census Bureau held a webinar to discuss the transfer of files to the new American FactFinder and provide guidance on building deep links, searching and bookmarking in the new site, as well as accessing the information that had previously been on the legacy FactFinder through an archived FTP site. For those who missed it, an archived version will be available in the next few days HERE.
If you need a few facts in a hurry, you can look at Quick Facts, which give you fast, easy statistics about people, business, and geography. If you are a new user of census data, this may give you what you need in a simple, easy-to-navigate format.
“Users no longer have to navigate between two Web tools,” Census Bureau Director Robert Groves said. “They now have one stop for the most important data sets from the Census Bureau.”
Nearly all of the information from the older version has been uploaded to the new American FactFinder website. At your fingertips, you now will have access to more than 250 billion data cells and statistics for more than —
- 40,000 tables
- 1,500 population groups and tribes
- 80,000 business and industry codes
- 12 million geographies for each decennial census
The new American FactFinder provides users with one-stop access to results from the decennial census (2010 and 2000), the economic census (2002 and 2007), American Community Survey, population estimates and key annual economic surveys. American FactFinder has statistics on a variety of topics, such as income, poverty, education, and housing.
Census staff are aware of customer issues with the new American Fact Finder and are working on both short term and long term solutions to address these issues, improve search and navigation, and enhance customer satisfaction
Eventually, the 2010 Census Equal Employment Opportunity File, the American Housing Survey and the census of governments statistics will be released through the new American FactFinder.
This expansion has permitted the Census Bureau to retire the original version of American FactFinder on Jan. 20 after 12 years of service. Several files will be available only on the Census Bureau FTP (file transfer protocol) site.
Any deep links or bookmarks in the older version of American FactFinder no longer work. The Census Bureau held a webinar to discuss the transfer of files to the new American FactFinder and provide guidance on building deep links, searching and bookmarking in the new site, as well as accessing the information that had previously been on the legacy FactFinder through an archived FTP site. For those who missed it, an archived version will be available in the next few days HERE.
If you need a few facts in a hurry, you can look at Quick Facts, which give you fast, easy statistics about people, business, and geography. If you are a new user of census data, this may give you what you need in a simple, easy-to-navigate format.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS)
EIA is releasing new benchmark estimates for home energy use for the year 2009 that include detailed data for 16 States, 12 more than in past EIA residential energy surveys. EIA has conducted the Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS) since 1978 to provide data on home energy characteristics, end uses of energy, and expenses for the four Census Regions and nine Divisions. In 1997, EIA produced additional tabulations for the four most populous States (California, New York, Texas, and Florida). A threefold increase in the number of households included in the 2009 RECS offers more accuracy and coverage for understanding energy usage for all estimated States, Regions and Divisions.
More HERE.
More HERE.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Revisions to Seasonally Adjusted Household Survey Data
At the end of every calendar year, BLS makes routine revisions to the seasonally adjusted data in the Current Population Survey (CPS), which includes the national unemployment rate. The revisions include all additional information to identify if changes in the data are one-time or seasonal temporary blips as opposed to permanent changes in the numbers. These changes are usually minor and don’t drastically change labor market trends. With this month’s release of the employment situation, BLS made that same set of routine revisions, and as expected, the changes to 2011 data were minor.
More HERE.
More HERE.
Monday, January 9, 2012
ACS questions re: computer & internet usage, parental place of birth
The Census Bureau published a Federal Register notice on December 28, 2011 [PDF], seeking comment on two proposed new topics (questions) for the American Community Survey (ACS) starting in 2013.
The Census Bureau tested these new questions in its 2010 ACS Content Test. The topics are:
1. Computer and internet usage
2. Parental place of birth
Terri Ann Lowenthal, in her Census Project blog, speculated about the implications for census-taking of racial, income, geographic, and other socioeconomic differentials in Internet access and usage.
She writes in an e-mail: "Nonprofits working with immigrant communities might be especially interested in the proposed question on parental place of birth. The justification for both proposed topics is included in the FR notice. The notice also summarizes several other proposed tweaks (the technical term!) to ACS questions starting in 2013.
"Deadline for public comments is February 27, 2012...I urge any organizations supporting these new question topics to submit comments to the Department of Commerce."
The Census Bureau tested these new questions in its 2010 ACS Content Test. The topics are:
1. Computer and internet usage
2. Parental place of birth
Terri Ann Lowenthal, in her Census Project blog, speculated about the implications for census-taking of racial, income, geographic, and other socioeconomic differentials in Internet access and usage.
She writes in an e-mail: "Nonprofits working with immigrant communities might be especially interested in the proposed question on parental place of birth. The justification for both proposed topics is included in the FR notice. The notice also summarizes several other proposed tweaks (the technical term!) to ACS questions starting in 2013.
"Deadline for public comments is February 27, 2012...I urge any organizations supporting these new question topics to submit comments to the Department of Commerce."
Saturday, January 7, 2012
How Moving Companies are Changing the U.S. Landscape
A recent post here was about infographics; there is also a post about the 2010 Census reporting record low mover rates. The infographic here visualizes the Census trend.
Friday, January 6, 2012
New and Improved Features on Census.gov Home Page
Some of the new features you will find include:
A top drop-down menu for quick navigation to key topics.
An embeddable dashboard in the upper right corner featuring our economic indicators. Reporters can subscribe to receive automatic updates.
A prominent "Census News" section in the middle of the page.
A new interactive map showing in-depth business and demographic information for the nation, states and counties.
A "Stat of the Day" highlighting statistics across all the data collected by the Census Bureau.
A top drop-down menu for quick navigation to key topics.
An embeddable dashboard in the upper right corner featuring our economic indicators. Reporters can subscribe to receive automatic updates.
A prominent "Census News" section in the middle of the page.
A new interactive map showing in-depth business and demographic information for the nation, states and counties.
A "Stat of the Day" highlighting statistics across all the data collected by the Census Bureau.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
OpenSecrets.org - looking at dollars flowing thru political campaigns
With the presidential election on the far horizon, political campaigns will be front page news for the next several months, and a big part of the political news will focus on money: who is raising it, who is giving it, who is spending it, and what they are spending it on.
OpenSecrets.org, produced by the Center for Responsive Politics, provides an easy way to look at the dollars flowing through the campaigns, using data from the Federal Election Commission. This comprehensive website covers presidential, house and senate campaign finance, offering detailed fundraising profiles for each candidate, with rankings of donating industries and major contributors. PAC money is accounted for, with data on “outside spending” supporting and opposing the candidate, and head-to-head comparisons of presidential candidates allow you to directly compare, for example, the key industries donating to Santorum with those supporting Obama. For representatives and senators, comparisons to congressional fund-raising averages are provided, along with a listing of bills sponsored and co-sponsored.
OpenSecrets.org offers extensive and well organized information on campaign finance. The data is easily readable, and illustrated by graphs. If you are wondering where all the money comes from, Open Secrets.org will open the books for you.
OpenSecrets.org, produced by the Center for Responsive Politics, provides an easy way to look at the dollars flowing through the campaigns, using data from the Federal Election Commission. This comprehensive website covers presidential, house and senate campaign finance, offering detailed fundraising profiles for each candidate, with rankings of donating industries and major contributors. PAC money is accounted for, with data on “outside spending” supporting and opposing the candidate, and head-to-head comparisons of presidential candidates allow you to directly compare, for example, the key industries donating to Santorum with those supporting Obama. For representatives and senators, comparisons to congressional fund-raising averages are provided, along with a listing of bills sponsored and co-sponsored.
OpenSecrets.org offers extensive and well organized information on campaign finance. The data is easily readable, and illustrated by graphs. If you are wondering where all the money comes from, Open Secrets.org will open the books for you.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Finding Place in Making Connections Communities
Foundation- and government-sponsored initiatives often want to help disadvantaged neighborhoods and families in tandem. Yet many do not connect with their constituencies because the initiatives find target areas through census tracts and the like, which seldom match residents' definitions of their neighborhoods. Claudia J. Coulton, Tsui Chan, and Kristen Mikelbank (Case Western Reserve University) survey residents from 10 cities served by the Annie E. Casey Making Connections initiative, then employ GIS tools to discover the spaces residents call their neighborhoods as well as compare them with external definitions.
More HERE
See also: The Awkward Art of Neighborhood Naming
(Thanks to CG Hill
More HERE
See also: The Awkward Art of Neighborhood Naming
(Thanks to CG Hill
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Infographics are hardly new
Data Visualisation may be a hot topic right now, but a new poster show at London's Transport Museum reminds us that getting complex information over in attractive ways is not a new challenge for the art director or designer MORE.
Monday, January 2, 2012
World Giving Index 2011 : A Global View of Giving Trends
Source: Charities Aid Foundation
This is the second edition of the 'World Giving Index', the largest study into charitable behaviour across the globe involving 153 countries in total.Using data from Gallup's Worldview World Poll, the report is based on three measures of giving behaviour - giving money, volunteering time and helping a stranger.
The results show that the USA is officially the most charitable nation in the world.
This is the second edition of the 'World Giving Index', the largest study into charitable behaviour across the globe involving 153 countries in total.Using data from Gallup's Worldview World Poll, the report is based on three measures of giving behaviour - giving money, volunteering time and helping a stranger.
The results show that the USA is officially the most charitable nation in the world.
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