Demographics

News

Children of Immigrants Vital to California's Economic Future

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January 16, 2013

Citing research by USC Price Professor Dowell Myers, ABC News' "World News" reported that the children of immigrants play a vital role in the state's future, driving its economy and purchasing homes from aging baby boomers. Myers said that providing better working conditions for mothers would be beneficial for the long-term health of the state. "That matters," he said. "Show more respect for moms!" The research was also covered by ABC News Los Angeles affiliate KABC-TV.

Myers: Drop in CA's Child Population Harmful to State's Economy

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January 14, 2013

United Press International featured research by USC Price School of Public Policy Professor Dowell Myers finding that a decline in California's child population could harm the state's economic future.

State's Child Population Tied to Economic Future, Myers Find

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January 10, 2013

Daily Mail (U.K.) featured research by Dowell Myers of the USC Price School finding that a decline in California's child population could harm the state's economic future. NBC News Los Angeles KNBC-TV interviewed Myers about the situation. "We expect our kids to grow up to be good workers and great taxpayers," Myers said. "But we have half as many as we need to support all these older boomers who are going to expect healthcare and someone to buy their house." The research was also covered by the Sacramento Bee and San Jose Mercury News.

January 8, 2013

The Wall Street Journal featured research by Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Price School of Public Policy finding that declining migration and falling birthrates have led to a drop in the number of California's children. This comes just as the state's baby boomers are set to retire, creating an economic and demographic challenge. "We have a massive replacement problem statewide," Myers said. "The majority of the next generation of workers will have been shaped by California's health and education systems. It's essential that we nurture our human capital." The story was also covered by EFE (Spain), NPR News Sacramento affiliate KXJZ-FM, the San Francisco Chronicle, the Sacramento Bee, City News Service, Press TV, Univision Los Angeles affiliate KMEX-DT, Mundo Fox Los Angeles affiliate KWHY-TV, LA Weekly, the Los Angeles Daily News, and KMU-AM.

Myers Research Finds Decline in CA's Child Population

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January 8, 2013

The Telegraph (U.K) featured research by USC Price Professor Dowell Myers finding that declining migration and falling birthrates have led to a drop in California's child population. "These trends are not yet widely recognized, but they should be a wake-up call for policymakers," Myers said. The research was also covered by Reason, NPR News San Diego affiliate KPBS-FM, and World Journal.

January 8, 2013

CA Population Map An unprecedented decline in California's child population, coupled with a tidal wave of baby boom retirees, will pose significant challenges for the state's future prosperity, according to an analysis of census data released by the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy and the Lucile Packard Foundation for Children's Health. "These trends are not yet widely recognized, but they should be a wake-up call for policymakers," said report author Professor Dowell Myers.

Lopez-Lee Discusses Cultural Shift in La Opinion

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January 2, 2012

La Opinion quoted David Lopez-Lee of the USC Price School and Jody Agius Vallejo of the USC Dornsife College about Latinos not choosing traditional names for their children once they become more Americanized.

Green Assesses Role of Generation X in National Economy

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December 20, 2012

Minnesota Public Radio interviewed Richard Green, USC Price professor and director of the Lusk Center for Real Estate, about the role of Generation X in the national economy.

Myers Talks about Population Boom in Silicon Valley

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December 19, 2012

The Wall Street Journal quoted USC Price Dowell Myers about Silicon Valley's population growth.

Myers Discusses CA's Rising Population amid Economic Recovery

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December 13, 2012

The Los Angeles Times quoted Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy about California's population rising as the economy improves.

New Study Examines Health of Mexican Immigrants

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December 5, 2012

The Los Angeles Times featured research by Dana Goldman of the USC Price School and the USC School of Pharmacy and colleagues, finding that while new immigrants to the United States from Mexico have much lower rates of diabetes than those living here, many of the diabetics among them are undiagnosed. The longer immigrants are in the U.S., the more likely they are to be diagnosed and treated, the study found. This counterbalances the idea that newly arrived Mexican immigrants are susceptible to more health risks as they move to the United States.

Schweitzer on Impact of Light-Rail Opening in LA's Crenshaw Area

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November 28, 2012

The New York Times quoted Price Associate Professor Lisa Schweitzer about the impact of a light-rail line opening in the Crenshaw area.

Green Discusses Living Arrangements of Seniors in LA Time

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November 24, 2012

The Los Angeles Times quoted Richard Green, USC Price professor and director of the Lusk Center for Real Estate, about the living arrangements of today's seniors.

Golden State is Precursor of American Politics, Jeffe Writes

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November 20, 2012

Reuters ran an op-ed by Sherry Bebitch Jeffe of the USC Price School about the future of the American electorate, and how it relates to the current California electorate. "Whatever happens in the Golden State is likely to be a precursor of the next trend in American politics," Jeffe wrote. "For better or worse, America has become California."

Kids in Owner-Occupied Homes Do Better in School, Researchers Find

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November 17, 2012

The Sioux City Jounal covered research professors Richard Green and Gary Painter of the USC Lusk Center for Real Estate, finding that children growing up in owner-occupied homes do better in school.

'America is California,' Jeffe Writes

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November 10, 2012

NBC News Los Angeles affiliate KNBC-TV ran a column by Sherry Bebitch, senior fellow at the USC Price School, about how California's political demographics are now reflected more widely across the nation.

USC Center Launches New Migration Tracking Tool

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November 7, 2012

Tomas Rivera Policy Institute Migration Monitor The Tomas Rivera Policy Institute at USC, a university research center housed in the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy, and El Colegio de la Frontera Norte (COLEF), a government-funded social science research institution in Tijuana, collaborated on a project aimed at tracking migration across the U.S.-Mexico border on a comprehensive and timely basis. The Mexican Migration Monitor is a new Web-based report presenting key trends in the ongoing and evolving movement of people between Mexico and the United States.

Jeffe Discusses Women's' Focus on Economy in the Election

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October 29, 2012

McClatchy Newspapers quoted Senior Fellow Sherry Bebitch Jeffe of the USC Price School about women focusing more on the economy than on women's issues during the 2012 presidential electio

"Californians Aren't Fleeing" the Golden State, Myers Writes

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September 28, 2012

Reason quoted Professor Dowell Myers about the rate of Californians leaving the state.

Myers: Retirees Depend on Young Workforce to Fund Benefits

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September 20, 2012

The Daily Mail (U.K.) quoted USC Price Professor Dowell Myers about American retirees depending on a younger workforce to fund benefits.

Myers Discusses Recession's Effect on Income Class Movement

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September 19, 2012

The Los Angeles Times quoted Professor Dowell Myers about the recession causing people to move from one income class to another.

Myers Op-Ed Addresses 'California's Demographic Challenge'

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July 22, 2012

The Los Angeles Times ran an op-ed by Professor Dowell Myers about the need to invest in California's younger generation. Myers wrote that California has a large native-born population, and a large generation gap. He added that the best policy would be to invest in education for the state's younger generations, regardless of race and ethnicity. "Who will we be looking to in the next decade to shore up California's housing market, workforce and tax base?" Myers wrote. "They will overwhelmingly be the children of immigrants now in our schools."

Suro Discusses Latino Vote's Impact on 2012 Elections

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July 12, 2012

Inter Press Services quoted Professor Roberto Suro of the USC Price School of Public Policy and Annenberg School of Communication and Journalism about the Latino vote in the upcoming presidential elections.

Painter: Aging Immigrant Population Will Give Long-Term Housing Boost

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June 27, 2012

The Orange County Register cited a prediction by Gary Painter, USC Price professor and director of research at the Lusk Center for Real Estate, that an aging immigrant population will provide a long-term boost to housing.

Myers Dissects Europe's Changing Demographics

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May 23, 2012

The Daily Maverick (South Africa) cited Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy about Europe's changing demographics. Myers explains that European societies with low levels of immigration now have young populations too small to support their aging population, heightening difficulties with their economies, according to the story.

Minority Births Overtake White Births in New U.S. Census Data

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May 18, 2012

RedOrbit cited Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy regarding the changing demographics of the United States.

Myers Talks about Nation's View of CA in KPCC-FM Interview

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May 17, 2012

KPCC-FM's "The Madeleine Brand Show" interviewed USC Price Professor Dowell Myers about the nation's view of California. "People don't want to follow California," Dowell said. "They're jealous of California in some respects and they're fearful of California in some respects. But they're foolish if they don't keep a close eye on California and learn from some of our successes and some of our failures."

Myers Comments on American Community Survey

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May 17, 2012

China Central Television (China) interviewed Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy about the American Community Survey.

Price Study Forecasts Slower Population Growth for CA

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May 16, 2012

Bloomberg News mentioned a study by Dowell Myers of the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy and John Pitkin of USC's Population Dynamics Research Group estimating that California's population will grow at a much slower rate than previously predicted.

Myers Dispels Narrative of Californians Fleeing the State

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May 14, 2012

LA Observed cited Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Price School regarding the narrative that Californians are fleeing the state. The Redding Record Searchlight also cited Myers. "The demographic picture in California is brighter than it has been in decades," Myers said. "Provided we meet one key challenge...the main threat in California isn't about business climate or the types of homes being built. It is about the defunding of higher education and the failure to invest in the next generation of workers, taxpayers, and homebuyers."

Myers Analyzes Local Poverty, Overcrowding Rates

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May 13, 2012

The Glendale News-Press quoted USC Price Professor Dowell Myers about local poverty and overcrowding rates. Myers said that in general, poverty and overcrowding rates are declining, but not by as much as HUD says. The drastic change could be attributed to a different method used by the U.S. Census to count overcrowding over the decade. "It's the same bad data anywhere in the country."

CA Has Unique Assets for 21st Century Economy, Myers Writes

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May 13, 2012

Zocalo Public Square ran an op-ed by Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Price School about the narrative that people are "fleeing" California. Myers wrote that California natives tend to stay in the state, which is an important piece of demographic data that many ignore. "This giant state has an economy that is equivalent in production to the eighth-largest nation in the world," Myers wrote.

Myers' Report Predicts Slower Growth Rate for CA Population

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May 7, 2012

The Orange County Register cited a study by Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Price School and John Pitkin of USC's Population Dynamics Research Group, estimating that California's population will grow at a much slower rate than previously predicted.

Local Politicians Take Leadership Lessons at USC

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May 3, 2012

USC Price Executive Education Director Frank Zerunyan For many local elected officials, political office means solving complex problems with tight budgets while cultivating trust with constituents who increasingly are wary of those in power. With these challenges in mind, the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy this week will launch its Executive Education Program for local leaders to help elected city officials develop a vision for their cities. The first class of elected officials includes 18 mayors, mayors pro tem and council members from cities across Southern California.

Jeffe Weighs in on Gingrich's Effort to Appeal to Latinos

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May 2, 2012

La Opinion quoted Sherry Bebitch Jeffe of the USC Price School about Newt Gingrich's effort to appeal to conservative Latino voters.

Starr, Myers Discuss California's Future

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May 2, 2012

Kevin Starr, Dowell Myers The Athenian Society, the premier philanthropic support group for the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy, discussed the need for sound policy solutions to address the political and economic challenges facing California in the school's third Dean's Speaker Series event of the year titled "How Can California Prepare for a Future That's Already Here?" on April 23. The event featured University Professor Kevin Starr, a longtime California historian, and Dowell Myers, USC Price professor of demography and urban planning.

National Planning Conference Showcases USC Price Faculty

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May 1, 2012

David Sloane The USC Sol Price School of Public Policy was well represented at the American Planning Association's national planning conference at the Los Angeles Convention Center on April 14-17. To coincide with the conference, David Sloane, professor and director of undergraduate programs for USC Price, edited the book Planning Los Angeles, published by the American Planning Association, using contributions from many USC Price faculty and alumni to catalog the history and trends that impact planning in the city.

USC Projection of California Population Shows Massive Slowdown

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April 24, 2012

Dowell Myers A massive slowdown in California's population growth means the state likely won't reach 50 million residents until the year 2046, according to a new USC analysis released today. That's a far slower rate of growth than the latest official projection released in 2007 by the state's Department of Finance that shows California reaching 50 million residents in the year 2032. The population slowdown may bring reprieve to a fiscally strapped state under pressure to keep up with infrastructure needs, said report co-author Dowell Myers, professor at the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy.

USC Study Predicts CA Population to Grow at Much Slower Rate

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April 24, 2012

The Los Angeles Times featured a study by Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Price School and John Pitkin of USC's Population Dynamics Research Group finding that California's population will grow at a much slower rate than previously predicted. The report was also covered by the United Press International, CBS News Los Angeles affliated KCBS-TV, McClatchy News Service, and Science Daily.

CA's Projected Slow Population Growth May Be Boon to State Coffers

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April 22, 2012

USA Todayfeatured a study by Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Price School and John Pitkin of USC's Population Dynamics Research Group finding that California's population will grow at a much slower rate than previously predicted. This could be a boon to state coffers, the story noted. "This is surely good news for local governments and taxpayers who are struggling to keep up with the costs of growth," Myers said. "This is more manageable growth and that's good news for California," he told the Los Angeles Times. The study was covered by a second Los Angeles Times story, a third Los Angeles Times story, Reuters, KPCC-FM, the Sacramento Bee, ABC News Los Angeles affiliate KABC-TV, LA Observed, the Long Beach Press- Telegram, City News Service, and L.A. Weekly .

Conference Examines How Great Recession Impacted Immigration

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April 4, 2012

TRPI Conference The Tomas Rivera Policy Institute, housed at the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy, and New York University's Immigration Studies project looked at the recession's impact on immigrants in a recent conference at the Ronald Tutor Campus Center. "Immigration in the Wake of the Great Recession" offered perspectives of scholars and journalists during three panel discussions covering the immigrant experience.

March 18, 2012

The Pasadena Star-News cited research by Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Price School of Public Policy that found a drop in the number of Latinos living in the West San Gabriel Valley.

Price Ranks among Top Graduate Schools in U.S. News & World Report

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March 14, 2012

U.S. News & World Report featured several USC schools and programs in its 2013 edition of "Best Graduate Schools." The USC Price School was ranked No. 4 for Health Policy and Management; No. 6 in Public Affairs, up from No. 7 last year; No. 6 for Public Management Administration; No. 7 for City Management and Urban Policy; No. 7 for Nonprofit Management; No. 9 in Social Policy; No. 12 for Public Policy Analysis; and No. 21 for Public Finance and Budgeting.

Myers' Research Indicates So. CA Is Most Diverse Region in U.S.

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March 14, 2012

The Riverside Press-Enterprise featured research by Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Price School finding that Southern Californian cities are becoming more multiracial. The Inland Empire has the most racial balance in Southern California's five-county region, making it the most diverse part of the most multicultural region in the nation, Myers said. "This shows you can have multi-ethnic communities that work successfully," he added.

USC Price Continues to Rise in U.S. News & World Report Rankings

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March 14, 2012

US News Rankings The USC Sol Price School of Public Policy was among several USC schools and programs that ascended in the latest national rankings released by U.S. News & World Report . The Price School climbed to sixth place (from seventh in 2008) in the newest edition of "America's Best Graduate Schools" for public affairs.

Jeffe Analyzes Initiative to Increase Number of State Lawmakers

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March 5, 2012

The San Diego-Tribune quoted Senior Fellow Sherry Bebitch Jeffe of the USC Price School about a proposed amendment to the California legislature.

March 2, 2012

The Los Angeles Times ran a story featuring research by USC Price Professor Dowell Myers finding that Southern Californian cities are growing more multiracial. The study found that nearly two-thirds of cities in L.A., Orange, Riverside, Ventura and San Bernardino counties were multiracial, versus just more than half the region's cities in 1990. "In our society, in this era, diversity is a norm," Myers said. "It's an advantage the Los Angeles area holds over places that are becoming diverse but aren't there yet." KPCC-FM reported that racial balance will continue to shift in the future, though Southern California is in "a sweet spot for racial balance," according to Myers. The study found a decline in the white population and growth among Latinos and Asians. In addition, the story was reported by the Huffington Post, CBS News, Los Angeles affiliate KCAL-TV, Los Angeles Wave (in a City News Service story), LAist, the Glendale News Press, the Burbank Leader, and Cental News Agency (Taiwan).

USC Study Shows Southern California Cities More Multiracial

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March 1, 2012

Dowell Myers Southern California cities are now significantly more multiracial than 20 years ago, according to a new USC analysis. The percentage of multiracial cities in the five-county area climbed from 51.2 percent to 61.5 percent from 1990 to 2010, the report by the Population Dynamics Research Group at the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy showed. "Los Angeles is leading the nation once again in this multiracial experience," said lead author Dowell Myers, a professor of urban planning and demography at USC Price.

Myers Comments on California's Popularity

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February 23, 2012

The San Francisco Chronicle quoted USC Professor Dowell Myers on the appeal of California.

Suro Speaks at D.C. Forum on Latino Policy, Civil Rights Issues

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February 17, 2012

The Huffington Post noted that Professor Roberto Suro of the USC Price School of Public Policy and the Annenberg School of Communication & Journalism attended a Washington, D.C., roundtable on Latino law and civil rights issues, and cited him regarding Latinos' public policy concerns. Suro is director of the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute at USC, the story noted.

February 16, 2012

Reuters quoted USC Price Associate Professor Darius Lakdawalla about research finding that Medicare spends more per person on obese beneficiaries. Lakdawalla is director of research at USC's Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics

Myers Urges Generational Unity for 2012 Election

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February 15, 2012

Dowell Myers Few things in life are certain, but you can count on this: In 10 years, you'll be 10 years older. Dowell Myers, professor at the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy and director of the Population Dynamics Research Group, shared the implications of this and other straightforward demographic realities during a recent discussion titled "The New Connectedness as a Strategy to Win Majority Support: Overcoming Divisions Posed by Class, Age, Race and Immigration." The talk was part of Road to the White House: Politics, Media and Technology, a yearlong series of public conversations presented by the Bedrosian Center on Governance and the Public Enterprise, the Center on Communication Leadership & Policy, and the Unruh Institute of Politics.

Symposium Honors Life, Impact of Harry Pachon

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February 15, 2012

Harry Pachon Memorial Symposium USC celebrated the life of professor Harry Pachon with a memorial symposium discussing politics and policy from a Latino perspective. Pachon, who died in November at age 66, was a pioneer in researching Latino culture and politics. He joined the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy in 2003, bringing with him the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute (TRPI). He served as president of the institute from 1993 to 2010, turning it into the nation's premier think tank on policy issues relevant to Hispanics. He also was a founding board member and executive director of the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) Educational Fund from 1983 to 1993.

Fulton Featured in Q&A, Discusses 'Smart Growth' Planning Concept

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February 13, 2012

The San Diego Union-Tribune ran a Q&A with USC Price Senior Fellow William Fulton about the "smart growth" planning concept, and noted that he was mayor of the city of Ventura.

USC Price School Celebrates Naming Gift

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February 9, 2012

USC Price Naming Celebration Confetti shot through the air, the Spirit of Troy played the USC fight song and faculty, staff, students, alumni and university officials lifted two fingers in a victory salute on Feb. 7 as the university celebrated the newly named USC Sol Price School of Public Policy. USC president C. L. Max Nikias and USC Price dean Jack H. Knott were joined on stage in front of Lewis Hall by brothers Robert and Larry Price to officially announce the $50 million naming gift from the Price Family Charitable Fund to honor the life and legacy of entrepreneur and philanthropist Sol Price '36, '38.
Click here to view photos from the celebration >>
Click here to watch Sol Price tribute video >>

Myers Featured on NPR, Discusses Need for Immigrant Assimilation Policy

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January 20, 2012

NPR News San Diego affiliate KPBS-FM interviewed Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy about the U.S. needing an assimilation policy for new immigrants. The story cited an op-ed that Myers wrote for the New York Times.

Myers Examines Political Value of Illegal Immigration Issue

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January 16, 2012

International Business Times quoted USC Price School Professor Dowell Myers about the political value of the illegal immigration issue.

January 12, 2012

The Dallas Morning News highlighted an op-ed by Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Price School of Public Policy about the U.S. needing to shift from an immigration policy of border enforcement to an immigrant policy of education and assimilation.

Schuetz, Colleagues Study Gentrification Patterns

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January 10, 2012

The Atlantic featured research by USC Price Assistant Professor Jenny Schuetz and a New School colleague, who studied gentrification patterns in New York. The study looked at 208 New York City ZIP codes between 1998 and 2007 to see how retail properties, demographics and affluence changed during that time. The study noted that "low-income neighborhoods have lower densities of both establishments and employment, smaller average establishment size, and less diverse retail composition." The story highlighted another study by Schuetz and colleagues showing that the kinds of retail attracted to a neighborhood vary widely in terms of type of service, type of store and quality of goods.

Myers Discusses Drop in Illegal Immigration from Mexico into U.S.

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December 13, 2011

The Wall Street Journal quoted Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Price School of Public Policy about a drop in levels of illegal immigration into the U.S. from Mexico.

Myers Comments on Shift Away from Suburban Housing in Sacramento

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December 13, 2011

The Sacramento Bee quoted Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Price School about a report suggesting a shift away from suburban housing.

December 2, 2011

The Huffington Post cited research by Price School Professor Dowell Myers and John Pitkin of USC's Population Dynamics Research Group concluding that Latinos will continue to integrate into American society over the next 20 years.

Myers Decries 'Peter Pan Fallacy' Regarding Immigrants

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November 22, 2011

The Wall Street Journal interviewed USC Price Professor Dowell Myers about research he conducted with John Pitkin of USC's Population Dynamics Research Group, which concluded that immigrants as a whole are becoming more integrated into U.S. society. Myers decries what he called the "Peter Pan fallacy," in which people see new immigrants and think their lack of English or education implies that they as a population will always be like that. "At any moment in time, you just see what's there today," Myers said. "They're not Peter Pan, they're not frozen in time. ... They're going to get deeper roots and learn skills and move up the ladder." A second story ran in the Wall Street Journal.

November 19, 2011

Politico quoted Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy about the Obama administration's decision to sue three states in an effort to overturn laws directed toward illegal immigrants.

SPPD Report: Immigrants Integrating at a Higher Rate

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November 15, 2011

The Huffington Post featured research by USC Price Professor Dowell Myers and John Pitkin of USC's Population Dynamics Research Group, which concluded that Latinos as a whole are becoming more integrated into U.S. society. The study suggests that by 2030, Latinos living in America will be a demographic that sees major gains in educational and economic achievement and in homeownership. Myers said that Latinos' progress on homeownership is the American Dream, an achievement "you don't hear about very often, because it doesn't support an agenda held by restrictionists."

Myers Discusses How Housing Prices Impact the Poverty Level

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November 14, 2011

The Columbia Daily Tribune quoted Professor Dowell Myers of the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy regarding the role housing prices have played in a rise in the poverty level.

SPPD Research Addresses Immigrants' Assimilation in America

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November 14, 2011

The Wall Street Journal highlighted research by USC Price Professor Dowell Myers and John Pitkin of USC's Population Dynamics Research Group, concluding that the longer immigrants live in the U.S., the more assimilated they become. Their study tracked the social and economic advances of immigrants to the U.S. age 20 or older who arrived in the 1990s, and found they consistently made progress over time, though the recession halted that progress. "We assume they will resume the upward trajectory when the recession comes to an end," Myers said. Analyzing census data, they found that homeownership is achieved by most immigrants within a couple of decades.

Harry Pachon: Leading Academic, Advocate

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November 11, 2011

The Chronicle of Higher Education ran a column by Professor Roberto Suro about the late Harry Pachon of the USC Price School of Public Policy. Pachon, who was president of the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute at USC, had enormous influence in public discourse about the Latino population, Suro wrote. Felix Gutierrez of the Annenberg School knew Pachon as a college student, and said it was a lonely experience for Latinos attaining a doctorate in the late 1960s. "There were not many colleagues, not a cohort, and so when we got our Ph.D.'s it wasn't as if we were becoming part of a community," Gutierrez said. Suro wrote that in the first half of the 2000s, Pachon "promoted a vision of a rising Latino middle class and the need for more information to speed the move into homeownership." He noted that Univision reported on Pachon's passing, stating that he "understood earlier than many others the importance of Latinos and the power of their votes." NBC News . Los Angeles affiliate KNBC-TV ran a commentary by USC Price Senior Fellow Sherry Bebitch Jeffe, noting that Pachon used hard data to undermine misperceptions about Latinos. USC Price Dean Jack Knott said Pachon leaves a "legacy of extraordinary contributions to Latino politics and policy at a crucial period in the development of the Latino community in America." "Harry had a gift for seeing the world as it was, but ever hopeful about the future," added Dan Mazmanian of the School of Policy, Planning, and Development.

Green Addresses Growth in Rental Housing Market

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November 2, 2011

The Wall Street Journal quoted Richard Green, SPPD professor and director of the USC Lusk Center for Real Estate, about growth in rental housing despite the economic downturn.

Harry Pachon, Latino scholar and activist, dies at 66

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November 9, 2011

The Los Angeles Times ran an obituary for Harry Pachon of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development, who was president of the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute at USC. Pachon researched key issues affecting Latinos, including bilingual education, voting patterns and immigration. "Harry pretty much invented the idea of the Latino think-tank," said Roberto Suro of the USC Annenberg School, who directs the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute. "His legacy of extraordinary contributions to Latino politics and policy at a crucial period in the development of the Latino community in America will be remembered always," School of Policy, Planning, and Development Dean Jack Knott told La Opinion. Pachon was a brilliant scholar and a trailblazer, L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa told KPCC_FM. In 1997, President Bill Clinton appointed Pachon to the President's Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for Hispanic Americans. The same year, the Mexican government presented him with a humanitarian award for his research on Mexicans living in the U.S. Pachon was also remembered by a Hispanic Business and a second La Opinion story.

In Memoriam: Harry Pachon

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November 8, 2011

SPPD Professor Harry Pachon Harry Pachon, professor at the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development and president of the nation's oldest and most recognized think tank on Latino issues, died Nov. 4 following an extended illness. He was 66. "USC is saddened by the loss of professor Harry Pachon, an inspiring teacher, researcher and humanitarian who served both our university and our community at large," said USC provost Elizabeth Garrett. "His pioneering and celebrated career as a scholar of Latino culture and politics has heightened our understanding of the issues and challenges facing the Latino community, and he translated this work to society by encouraging local activism and advancement through education. Professor Pachon's dedication and character has left a lasting impact on the world."
Letter from USC Provost Elizabeth Garrett >>
Tribute written by SPPD's Sherry Bebitch Jeffe on NBC Los Angeles >>

Myers Discusses Role of Housing Prices in Fueling Poverty

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November 7, 2011

The Los Angeles Times quoted Professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development about new U.S. Census Bureau statistics on poverty and the role of housing prices in driving up those numbers for California.

Harry Pachon, Educator and Latino Advocate

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November 6, 2011

L.A. Observed reported that Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa announced the passing of Professor Harry Pachon of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development, praising him as a brilliant scholar and a trailblazer. Pachon was president of the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute at USC and a founding board member and past executive director of the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials Educational Fund. La Opinion also noted that the Mexican government awarded Pachon with the Ohtli Award in 1997 for his work on Mexicans living in the United States. Villaraigosa said that Pachon contributed immensely to research on Latinos and the policy issues that affect them. "Although we will miss him dearly, he leaves a legacy of outstanding scholarship and of advancing the participation of Latinos in the democratic process," Villaraigosa said.

Myers Comments on Latinos Driving Growth in Homeownership

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November 6, 2011

The Sarasota Herald- Tribune cited a study by Professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development about how, during the past decade, the biggest sellers of California homes have been white senior citizens, with Latinos accounting for 79 percent of the growth in homeownership.

Suro Writes Washington Post Op-Ed on Attitudes toward Immigration

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October 21, 2011

The Washington Post ran an op-ed co-written by Professor Roberto Suro of the USC Annenberg School of Communications and Journalism and the School of Policy, Planning, and Development, about America's paradoxical attitudes toward immigrants. Suro wrote that when polled, Americans say they want to stem the tide of illegal immigrants, but want to allow the ones already here the opportunity to become naturalized citizens. The U.S. is schizophrenic in the way it views immigration, and particularly how it remembers the subject in history, Suro wrote. "When immigration meets a national loss of confidence, as in this time of economic crisis, the byproduct can be outright fear."

Suro Analyzes Low California Birthrate

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October 20, 2011

TheSacramento Bee quoted SPPD Professor Roberto Suro, director of the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute at USC, about fluxes in birthrates among first- and second-generation Latino immigrants.

Myers Explains Young Latino Population's Role in Demography of U.S.

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October 18, 2011

The Houston Chronicle covered a conference presentation by Professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development, on the young Latino population's role in the demography of America. Myers said that without a growing immigrant population, the U.S. economy and population growth would stagnate as Japan's have done. "It really is a gift," Myers said. "These children are very expensive, but they pay off down the road."

Jeffe Weighs in on GOP Candidates' Appeal among Latino Voters

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October 17, 2011

La Opinion quoted SPPD Senior Fellow Sherry Bebitch Jeffe about Republican candidates' appeal among Latino voters.

Myers Discusses America's Population Transformation

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October 12, 2011

MedIndia (India) featured a report by SPPD Professor Dowell and John Pitkin of USC's Population Dynamics Research Group, which found that the U.S. immigrant population is becoming increasingly long-settled. The report projects that by 2030, a majority of the nation's foreign-born population will have lived in the U.S. for at least two decades. "We're marking a major transformation in America," Myers said.

October 6, 2011

KPCC-FM featured a report by SPPD Professor Dowell Myers and John Pitkin of USC's Population Dynamics Research Group which found that the U.S. immigrant population is becoming increasingly long-settled. The report projects that by 2030, a majority of the nation's foreign-born population will have lived in the U.S. for at least two decades. The Sacramento Bee also noted Myers saying, "We're marking a major transformation in America."

Myers Comments on Accumulating, Escalating Impacts of Recession

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September 22, 2011

The Los Angeles Times quoted Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development about the median household income and poverty rate in L.A. County. Myers was also quoted in a second article in the L.A. Times.

Myers Comments on Surge in Latino Homeownership in Oregon

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September 3, 2011

The Oregonian quoted Professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development about Oregon's surge in Latino homeownership and decline in black homeownership.

Myers Discusses Research on Immigrants Building Wealth through Real Estate

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September 2, 2011

KPCC-FM interviewed SPPD Professor Dowell Myers about his research on immigrants building wealth through real estate. "Real estate is key. Classically, immigrants buy properties and rent portions out to newer immigrants," Myers said. "Some say simply buying a house is middle class, and immigrants do that in 20 years, less than one generation." The story also cited Jody Agius Vallejo of the USC Dornsife College regarding her research on the Mexican American middle class.

Myers Op-Ed: 'Housing Market Links Older Whites, Young Latinos'

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July 31, 2011

The Sacramento Bee ran an op-ed by SPPD Professor Dowell Myers on how the American dream of home ownership can bring young Latinos and older whites together. Last decade's house "sellers were overwhelmingly white, but younger whites, unlike in the previous decades, were not replacing them as homeowners. ... So who were the buyers? Mostly Latinos. At decade's end, they accounted for 78.5 percent of California's total growth in homeownership, and about 32 percent of new homeowners under 45 were Latinos."

Myers Discusses Changing Face of LA's South Bay Cities

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July 30, 2011

The Daily Breeze quoted SPPD Professor Dowell Myers in a story about demographic changes in South Bay cities.

Raising U.S. Life Expectancy Could Save $632 Billion

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July 28, 2011

On average, Americans live about a year-and-a-half less than their Western European counterparts and also less than people in most other developed nations. A study in the July issue of Social Science & Medicine is the first to calculate the fiscal consequences of the growing life expectancy gap over the next few decades. USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development faculty Dana Goldman and Darius Lakdawalla, are among the study's authors.

Myers Writes LA Times Op-Ed on CA's Future Homeowners

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July 27, 2011

The Los Angeles Times published an op-ed about California's future homeowners that was based on research done by Professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development. The op-ed cited Myers' analysis of newly compiled census data on California homeownership that shows young Latino home buyers, and also Asians, took up the slack from diminished white demand for houses in the past decade and will in the coming years be even more important to the state's housing market as older whites retire and sell their homes.

Myers' Research on CA's Future Homeowners Cited by LA Times

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July 27, 2011

The Los Angeles Times cited research by Professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development on California's future homeowners, and mentioned his book "Immigrants and Boomers: Forging a New Social Contract for the Future of America."

Ross Discusses Gen Y's Impact on Housing Demand

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July 20, 2011

The Philadelphia Inquirer quoted SPPD Distinguished Fellow Stan Ross about the housing demand that will result from Generation Y reaching adulthood. Ross is the chairman of the board at the USC Lusk Center for Real Estate.

Myers: Census Data Illustrates Demographic Shift in Housing

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July 19, 2011

KPCC-FM cited a report by SPPD Professor Dowell Myers which used census data to illustrate a housing swap that is taking place between older white Americans and younger Latinos. L.A. Observed also cited the report.

SPPD Examines Housing Swap between Older Whites, Latinos

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July 13, 2011

L.A. Observed covered a report by a SPPD study which used census data to illustrate a housing swap that is taking place between older white Americans and younger Latinos.

Myers Report Finds Major Demographic Shift in Housing

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July 12, 2011

KPCC-FM featured a report by Professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development, which used census data to illustrate a housing swap that is taking place between older white Americans and younger Latinos. Over the last decade, California residents 75 and older have been selling off their homes in large numbers, but the state has only experienced a 1 percent net drop in home ownership rates, largely because of the number of young Latino homeowners entering the market. "It is young Latino home buyers, and also Asians, who have taken up the slack from diminished white demand," Myers told NBC News Los Angeles affiliate KNBC-TV. The Sacramento Bee and L.A. Weekly also featured the report.

State Census Shows Housing Swap Between Elderly Whites, Young Latinos

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July 12, 2011

SPPD Professor Dowell Myers The latest California census data show the state's oldest residents fled the housing market in greater numbers between 2000 and 2010 than during the previous two decades, according to a new report by USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development Professor Dowell Myers. This trend will likely worsen as the giant Baby Boomer generation -- which accounts for 3.3 million of California's 7 million homeowners -- nears retirement.

July 9, 2011

The Salt Lake Tribune quoted Professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development about his research on Latino immigrant integration and homeownership.

Myers Discusses Drop in Illegal Immigration from Mexico

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July 7, 2011

The San Diego Union-Tribune quoted SPPD Professor Dowell Myers about changes in Mexican demographics.

Myers Comments on the Changing face of America

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July 6, 2011

CNN interviewed Professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development about the history of Latino demographic growth in California.

USC Lusk Center Provides Briefing on Orange County

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July 4, 2011

The Orange County Register covered a USC Lusk Center for Real Estate briefing on Orange County, at which the center's chairman Stan Ross, who is Distinguished Fellow at SPPD, presented findings and led a panel discussion.

Myers Examines Hispanic Population Growth

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June 27, 2011

The San Diego Union-Tribune quoted Professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development, author of "Immigrants and Boomers: Forging a New Social Contract for the Future of America," about the aging baby boomer and school-age demographics.

Myers Discusses Baby Boomers' Impact on Housing Market

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June 21, 2011

National Public Radio (NPR) interviewed Professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development about the impact retiring baby boomers will have on the real estate market as they downsize their homes.

June 12, 2011

The Fresno Bee quoted Gary Painter, SPPD professor and director of research at the USC Lusk Center for Real Estate, about Southeast Asian families buying affordable Habitat for Humanity homes in Fresno.

Myers Cited Regarding Prop. 13

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June 14, 2011

The Jewish Journal cited Professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development regarding California's Proposition 13, and mentioned the Annual Demographic Workshop at USC.

Myers Examines Baby Boomers' Effect on Real Estate Market

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June 12, 2011

Booth News Service cited a 2008 study by SPPD Professor Dowell Myers and colleagues about the impact retiring baby boomers will have on the real estate market.

June 12, 2011

The Fresno Bee quoted Gary Painter, SPPD professor and director of research at the USC Lusk Center for Real Estate, about Southeast Asian families buying affordable Habitat for Humanity homes in Fresno.

Myers Finds Decline Ventura County's Child Population

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June 5, 2011

The Ventura County Star highlighted research by SPPD Professor Dowell Myers which identified declines in Ventura County's child population since the 2000 census.

Myers Explains Baby Boomers' Impact on Real Estate

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June 4, 2011

The Wall Street Journal quoted SPPD Professor Dowell Myers on the impact retiring baby boomers will have on the real estate market as they downsize their homes.

CA's Child Population on Decline, Myers Study Finds

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June 2, 2011

USA Today cited research by Dowell Myers, professor at the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development, who identified declines in California's child population since the 2000 census.

Data Finds Rise in Riverside Households with Unmarried Couples

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May 25, 2011

CBS News Thousand Palms, Calif., affiliate KPSP-TV highlighted analysis of new census data by SPPD Professor Dowell Myers and colleagues at USC's Population Dynamics Research Group, who identified a rise in Riverside County households with unmarried couples over the last decade.

Myers Discusses Decline in State's Child Population

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May 25, 2011

United Press International featured analysis of new census data by Dowell Myers, professor at the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development, which found that California's child population declined, as families moved out of state due to unemployment and high housing costs during the Great Recession. As a result, L.A. County workers may be in short supply in the future, Myers said. "The implications are that we really need to think about building a more supportive environment for families and kids," he added.

Myers Finds Big Drop In Amount of Children in LA Co.

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May 25, 2011

The Los Angeles Times featured analysis of new census data by Professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development, which found that California's child population declined, as families moved out of state due to unemployment and high housing costs during the Great Recession. As a result, L.A. County workers may be in short supply in the future, Myers said. "The implications are that we really need to think about building a more supportive environment for families and kids," he added. A second USC report identified significant increases in the number of households with unmarried couples and single fathers since the last census in 2000. Short-term consequences include the closure of some schools, said Edward Flores, project manager of USC's Population Dynamics Research Group, in La Opinion. The research was also featured by in KPCC-FM's "Patt Morrison," in CBS News Los Angeles affiliate KCBS-TV, NBC News Los Angeles affiliate KNBC-TV, two stories in The Sacramento Bee (second linkhere), and The L.A. Weekly.

L.A. Is 'Ground Zero' for Shrinking Child Population

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May 24, 2011

Los Angeles County is now the epicenter of California's shrinking population of young children as families are driven away by stressful economic conditions, according to a USC analysis of census data. Statewide, there was an 8.1 percent decline in children aged 5 to 9 in the last decade; L.A. County lost 21 percent. "We are ground zero of the 'missing children' of California," said co-author Dowell Myers, professor at the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development.

SPPD Faculty Examine Census Data on Owner-Occupied Homes

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May 15, 2011

The San Gabriel Valley Tribune quoted USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development Professor Dowell Myers and William Baer, SPPD professor emeritus, about census figures showing a rise in owner-occupied homes in certain area cities.

Green on Census Data Showing Empty Homes, Vacancies in CA

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May 12, 2011

The Associate Press quoted Richard Green, SPPD professor and director of the USC Lusk Center for Real Estate, about a rise in California home and rental vacancy rates over the last decade.

Census Figures Show Inland Empire Is Younger than Rest of CA

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May 12, 2011

The Riverside Press-Enterprise quoted Dowell Myers, professor at the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development, about new census figures showing that the average age of Inland Empire residents is lower than the average age in California overall.

Myers Comments on Decline in San Diego Homeownership

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May 11, 2011

The San Diego Union-Tribune quoted SPPD Professor Dowell Myers about new census figures showing declines in San Diego County homeownership rates.

Myers: CA Fares Better than Nation during Recession

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April 5, 2011

The Los Angeles Times featured a new report by SPPD Professor Dowell Myers, which found that California and Los Angeles County fared better on many indicators during the recent recession than the country as a whole. "It's surprising to see how well Los Angeles has fared despite greater losses that the nation in housing prices and employment," Myers told NBC News Los Angeles affiliate KNBC-TV. "This is the opposite of the 1990s recession when Los Angeles was hit so much harder than the nation." L.A. Observed also featured the report.

Great Recession Did Not Cause Surge in Poverty

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April 5, 2011

Even as housing prices plummeted and unemployment rates hit double digits, the so-called Great Recession did not correspond to a surge of Americans in poverty, according to a new USC study. Using the latest census figures, the study found conditions in California mostly improved since 2000. "It's surprising to see how well Los Angeles has fared despite greater losses than the nation in housing prices and employment," said lead author Dowell Myers, USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development professor.

Painter: Do Kids Benefit From Full-Day Kindergarten?

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March 30, 2011

KPCC-FM's "AirTalk" featured research by SPPD Professor Gary Painter and Jill Cannon of the Public Policy Institute of California, which found that compared with half-day kindergarten, full-day programs provided no meaningful gains on second-grade test scores or English fluency for English-language learners in the Los Angeles Unified School District. The story also highlighted a 2006 study by Painter and colleagues which indicated that while full-day kindergarten provided initial educational gains for kids and parents, by the third grade those who attended half-day classes had caught up to their peers. Painter is director of research of the USC Lusk Center for Real Estate.

Myers Discusses Demographic Changes for Bay Area

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March 30, 2011

The Bay Citizen quoted SPPD Professor Dowell Myers about census figures showing demographic changes in the Bay Area.

Do Children Benefit From Full Day of Kindergarten?

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March 24, 2011

A longer kindergarten day offers few educational benefits for most students learning English as a second language, a new USC study shows, despite a broad national push toward an extended day to help at-risk children. The study, co-authored by SPPD Professor Gary Painter, published March 9 in the Journal of Policy Analysis and Management, found no meaningful gains on second-grade test scores or improvement in English fluency for the bulk of English-language learners who spent a full day in kindergarten compared to those in a half-day class.

March 11, 2011

The San Francisco Chronicle quoted SPPD Professor Dowell Myers about new census figures showing a significant drop in Oakland's African American population.

Myers Examines New California Census Figures

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March 10, 2011

The Orange County Register quoted SPPD Professor Dowell Myers about the state's new census figures. The New York Times and the Washington Post also quoted Myers on the subject.

Myers Discusses New Census Figures

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March 9, 2011

KPCC-FM's "Patt Morrison" interviewed SPPD Professor Dowell Myers about the new census figures. KCRW-FM's "Which Way, L.A.?" also interviewed Myers.

SPPD Students Host Panel of Diverse City Managers

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March 1, 2011

Do top city administrators reflect the growing diversity of California's communities? Student associations from the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development invited five alumni panelists to address this and related questions at "Cultivating Diverse Leadership: The Emerging Face of City Management."

Myers to Serve as Fellow for New Center for Social Cohesion

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February 16, 2011

L.A. Observed reported that SPPD Professor Dowell Myers will be one of the first fellows of the new nonpartisan Center for Social Cohesion, which will promote understanding of how diverse societies cohere.

With Wisdom Comes Successful Aging

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February 2, 2011

Dilip Jeste, an expert in the field of aging, discussed his ongoing research on the criteria and determinants of successful aging Jan. 27 as part of the USC Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics Seminar Series. Jeste, director of the Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging at the University of California, San Diego, is at the forefront of research efforts to develop a definition, as well as criteria for, successful aging.

Myers Comments on Demographics in San Marino, CA

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January 31, 2011

The Los Angeles Times quoted SPPD Professor Dowell Myers about the demographics of San Marino, Calif.

Myers on Retiring Boomers' Effect on Housing Bubble

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January 13, 2011

The Globe and Mail (Canada) quoted SPPD Professor Dowell Myers about a 2008 study he conducted with USC doctoral student Sung Ryu, which warned of a generational housing bubble that could burst as baby boomers begin to retire.

USC Experts Discuss New Census Data, Demographics

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December 22, 2010

La Raza quoted Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development and Manuel Pastor of the USC College about California demographics and new census figures.

Painter Analyzes Home Buying Trend among Immigrants

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December 1, 2010

Miller-McCune featured research by SPPD Associate Professor Gary Painter and a colleague at the University of Utah on the links between geographic location and home-buying trends among immigrants. The researchers identified a steady drift of new immigrants away from major gateway cities toward midsize cities and urban areas. "Our data suggest that immigrants are attracted to homes near active support networks of fellow immigrants and in places with lower rates of immigrant growth resulting in less competition for entry-level jobs," said Painter, director of research at the USC Lusk Center for Real Estate.

Painters' migration research featured in Pacific Standard

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December 1, 2010

Pacific Standard Magazine featured research by Gary Painter, USC Price professor and director of research at the Lusk Center for Real Estate, and a colleague, finding that immigrants are moving to mid-sized cities within the United States. The migration patterns are due to immigrants seeking out pre-established immigrant communities and places with low job competition. "The anticipated rapid growth of U.S. immigrant populations in the coming decades, coupled with their movement into midsize metro areas, has the potential to transform communities," Painter said.

Myers Examines Impact of Immigration, Recession on Home Buying

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October 22, 2010

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution quoted SPPD Professor Dowell Myers on the effect of immigration and the recession on the demand for home buying.

Sacramento Bee Cites Myers' CA Population Study

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October 21, 2010

The Sacramento Bee cited research by SPPD Professor Dowell Myers which found that in 2008, for the first time in California history, a majority of the population was California-born.

Myers on How Demographic Shift May Affect Home Market

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October 12, 2010

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution highlighted research by SPPD Professor Dowell Myers and quoted him about changing demographics that could affect the housing market.

SPPD Study Finds Fewer Immigrants Arriving in L.A.

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October 10, 2010

La Opinion featured research by SPPD Professor Dowell Myers which found that fewer immigrants are arriving in Los Angeles, while more who have settled in L.A. are staying. Foreign-born residents made up 39.4 percent of the city's population in 2008, down from 40.9 percent in 2000, and immigrants who have lived in the United States for more than two decades made up 42.3 percent of L.A.'s foreign-born population in 2008, nearly triple the number in 1990. The story quoted SPPD student Janna Goldberg, who participated in the study.

Pachon Examines Latino Voters' Role in Governor's Race

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October 1, 2010

The Washington Post, in an Associated Press story, quoted SPPD Professor Harry Pachon, president of the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute at USC, about the role of Latino voters in the upcoming California gubernatorial election.

Myers Examines Role of Undocumented Workers in U.S.

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September 20, 2010

American Public Media's "Marketplace" interviewed SPPD Professor Dowell Myers about the place of undocumented workers in society.

Myers Study on Trends, Benefits of Immigration Featured in OC Register

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September 8, 2010

The Orange County Register cited a report by SPPD Professor Dowell Myers titled, "Thinking About Our Immigrant Future: New Trends and Mutual Benefits in Our Aging Society."

Myers' Report Finds Fast Pace of Immigrant Assimilation

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September 2, 2010

The San Antonio Express-News featured research conducted by SPPD Professor Dowell Myers and the school's Population Dynamics Research Group. In a report issued by the Center for American Progress, the team found that immigrants, particularly Latinos, are assimilating at a fast pace, with increasing citizenship and homeownership rates. "The energy that immigrants bring elevates the entire housing market," Myers said. "It's a story of commitment to America." The Arizona Daily Star and Poder also covered the story.

Myers Comments on Baby Boomer Population

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August 3, 2010

Reuters quoted SPPD Professor Dowell Myers about the baby boomer population.

Myers Comments on Highly-Educated Washington D.C. Region

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July 15, 2010

The Washington Post quoted SPPD Professor Dowell Myers about the high level of college-educated residents in Washington, D.C.

Currid-Halkett Comments on Celebrity Marriages

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July 14, 2010

BBC News interviewed SPPD Assistant Professor Elizabeth Currid-Halkett and S. Mark Young of the USC Marshall School of Business about celebrity marriages.

July 9, 2010

The Los Angeles Times featured research by SPPD Professor Dana Goldman which found that men over 40 who use erectile dysfunction treatments are two to three times more likely to pick up a sexually transmitted disease than their counterparts who don't take such drugs. The most common diseases found were HIV/AIDS and chlamydia, a Xinhua News Agency article stated. The fault lies not with the drugs but rather the high-risk behaviors of the men who request them, the researchers noted. The study was also covered by CBS News, CNN, Time, Forbes, Bloomberg Businessweek.

Pachon on Efforts to Mobilize Latino Voters in AZ

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July 6, 2010

The Los Angeles Times quoted SPPD Professor Harry Pachon, president of the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute at USC, about an effort to mobilize Latino voters in Arizona.

Views on Immigration Affected School Finance Voting, Myers Says

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June 25, 2010

The New York Times highlighted work by SPPD Professor Dowell Myers in a story on global migration. Myers has studied Proposition 55, a 2004 California ballot initiative that sought $12.3 billion in bond sales to relieve overcrowding and upgrade older schools. Myers found that voters who saw immigration as a burden were nearly 9 percentage points more likely to oppose the measure than those who called immigration a benefit. "That's a big effect -- it was almost enough to take it down," he said, adding that the measure passed with barely 50 percent of the vote.

TRPI Study on VoIP Service Use among Latinos Cited

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June 24, 2010

The SF Public Press cited a study through the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute at USC which found that many Latinos are familiar with voice-over-Internet, or VoIP, service and positively associate it with lower telephone costs.

Myers Discusses Proposal to Raise Retirement Age for State Workers

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June 18, 2010

National Public Radio interviewed SPPD Professor Dowell Myers about a proposal to raise the minimum retirement age for state workers.

SPPD Students' Study Examines Street Vending in Boyle Heights

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June 10, 2010

The Bell Gardens Sun featured research by SPPD students Josefina Campos, Jasmine Kim and Lauren Yokomizo, who found that street vendors have thrived in Boyle Heights in part due to the compassion and complicity of residents and legally permitted businesses.

TRPI Study Examines Potential Impact of Hispanic Voters

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June 4, 2010

The Latin American Herald Tribune (Venezuela) featured research by the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute at USC on the impact of the Latino vote in some states with large Hispanic populations. In California, it would require 2.3 percent of the more than 2.96 million Latino votes to produce a variation of 1 percent in election results, the story stated.

Myers Discusses Changing Demographic Trends, Illegal Immigration

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May 28, 2010

Newsweek quoted Professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development about changes to the demographic trends that drove an influx of illegal Mexican immigrants to the United States in recent years.

Myers Quoted on Increase in U.S. Household Size

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May 7, 2010

USA Today quoted SPPD Professor Dowell Myers about an increase in household size, or the number of people living under one roof. "I think it's the young adults," he said. "Residential mobility has slowed down and when it slows down, they're back in their parents' houses or living with roommates." Myer is a housing demographer at USC, the story noted.

Panel Focuses on Health Equity Issues

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April 26, 2010

In a collaborative student-led effort, leading voices in minority health advocacy in Los Angeles came together at the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development for a panel discussion on "Inequities in Minority Health: Access, Quality and Outcomes." The event, featuring representatives from the nonprofit, education and government sectors, covered a variety of pressing health care issues facing minority communities across the country.

Pachon on Improving Latino Census Participation

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April 23, 2010

The Contra Costa Times quoted SPPD Professor Harry Pachon about the role of community-based organizations in increasing Latino participation in the U.S. Census. Pachon is president of the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute.

TRPI Contributes to Federal Investigation

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April 15, 2010

Nearly 30 percent of LAUSD students in English Language Learning programs are not reclassified as proficient by the end of middle school, according to a report by the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute. More surprising, the majority of these students are born in the U.S. Six months after the report's release in October '09, the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights has announced the launch of an investigation to determine whether the district's ELL students are being denied equal educational opportunities. The San Francisco office will meet with USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development professor and TRPI president Harry Pachon to discuss the report's findings.

Study Finds Decline of Foreign-born Residents

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April 14, 2010

For the first time in half a century, the percentage of foreign-born residents in the state of California is actually declining, according to a recent study in which the lead author was USC demographics professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development.

April 13, 2010

The Baltimore Sun highlighted a report by SPPD Associate Professor Gary Painter which found that the number of U.S. households in metropolitan areas fell by 1.2 million between 2005 and 2008, even as the population rose. Painter is director of research of the USC Lusk Center for Real Estate.

Myers: CA-born Residents Majority of State Population

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April 9, 2010

Deutsche Presse-Agentur (Germany) featured research co-authored by SPPD's Dowell Myers which found that for the first time since the 19th century Gold Rush, California-born residents make up the majority of the population. "We thought that the number of foreign-born residents in the state would rise to about 30 percent before leveling off around 2020," Myers said. "Instead, we have reached the tipping point this year, with the percentage of foreign-born residents peaking at 26 percent."

April 8, 2010

Curbed L.A. featured the forthcoming book "Starstruck: The Business of Celebrity" by SPPD Assistant Professor Elizabeth Currid. In the book, Currid analyzes Getty Images' celebrity photo database to find out where celebrities hang out and with whom, and how that relates to city planning. Currid recently gave a talk about the concept in Massachusetts, the story noted.

Painter Study Finds Decrease in American Households

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April 8, 2010

The Annapolis Capital highlighted research by Gary Painter, SPPD associate professor and director of research at the USC Lusk Center for Real Estate, which found that the number of U.S. households dropped by an estimated 1.2 million between 2005 and 2008, even though the population increased by 3.4 million in 80 of the largest metropolitan areas during that time.

Myers: CA's Immigration Population Has Declined

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March 31, 2010

USA Today featured research co-authored by SPPD professor Dowell Myers which found that for the first time since the 19th century Gold Rush, California-born residents now make up the majority of the population. The Los Angeles Times reported that the immigrant population in California has declined to less than 27 percent, after peaking three years ago, while the native-born population has increased to more than half. "Home-grown Californians are the anchor of our economic future," Myers said. "But people are living in the past. They still think we are fighting off hordes of migrants." The research was also covered by a second Los Angeles Times story, National Public Radio's "All Things Considered," and BusinessWeek.

Immigrants Drawn to Mid-Size Cities, Study Finds

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March 25, 2010

A new study by researchers at USC's Lusk Center for Real Estate shows that an increasing number of new Americans are choosing to settle down in mid-size cities across the U.S., lured by less competition for jobs and growing neighborhoods of fellow immigrants. The study was co-authored by USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development associate professor Gary Painter and Zhou Yu, assistant professor at the University of Utah.

Myers on Southern California Demographic Changes

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March 25, 2010

The Los Angeles Times quoted SPPD Professor Dowell Myers about population growth in Southern California. Myers says newcomers are probably younger people from other parts of the country wanting to give the new region a try.

Immigrants Settling in Smaller Metropolitan Cities

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March 19, 2010

The Orange County Register highlighted research by SPPD Associate Professor Gary Painter which found that from 2000 to 2005 the number of recently arrived immigrants increased in smaller metropolitan cities. "Nurturing links within the immigrant community is key to building a new rank of homeowners," said Painter, director of research at the USC Lusk Center for Real Estate.

SPPD Doctoral Student Wins Award for Best Paper in Regional Science

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March 18, 2010

SPPD Ph.D. student Yiming Wang recently won the Springer Award for outstanding paper in the field of regional science for his essay, "Decomposing the Entropy Index of Racial Diversity: In Search of Two Types of Variance." Wang was presented with the award at the 49th Western Regional Science Association Annual Meeting, and his paper will be published in The Annals of Regional Science, the WRSA's official journal.

Trojan League of Los Angeles Showcases SPPD

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March 16, 2010

The Trojan League of Los Angeles showcased the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development on Feb. 27 at its annual benefit, which featured the theme "Creating Ideas That Shape the World." Each year, the alumnae group selects a distinguished USC department, school or individual to honor.

Pachon on Census Campaign Targeting Tech-Savvy Latino Youth

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March 11, 2010

Southern California Public Radio, in an Associated Press story, quoted SPPD Professor Harry Pachon about the census campaign targeting tech-savvy Latino youth. "Young people are sort of an intermediary between the all-English world and the all-Spanish world, so it makes a lot of sense to use the young people as transmitters of information," said Pachon, president of the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute.

March 11, 2010

Voice of America quoted SPPD Professor Harry Pachon about the U.S. Department of Education's announcement that it will investigate the teaching of English-language learners in Los Angeles public schools. Pachon is president of the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute.

March 4, 2010

Fox & Hounds Daily cited Professor Dowell Myers about the need for more college graduates and skilled workers who will be able to buy the houses of retiring baby boomers.

Dowell Myers Favors Seniors Aiding Youth

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February 19, 2010

USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development Professor Dowell Myers testified before the Joint Committee on the Master Plan for Higher Education at the State Capitol in Sacramento in February. Myers stressed the importance of older voters supporting higher education for youth, given the aging trend shaping the state's future.

Pachon on Minorities' Participation in CA Redistricting

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January 26, 2010

North County Times published an Associated Press story that quoted SPPD Professor and president of the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute, Harry Pachon, about political participation by minorities.

Myers Takes Part in Immigration Reform Teleconference

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December 18, 2009

La Opinion noted that Professor Dowell Myers participated in a national teleconference on immigration reform. Myers said that immigration reform drives the development of countries. Latinos are major buyers of housing in California, he noted.

Myers Comments on CA's Slow Population Growth Rate

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December 18, 2009

The Los Angeles Times quoted SPPD Professor Dowell Myers about news that California's population grew less than 1 percent in the last year, representing the slowest growth rate in more than a decade. Myers said the slowdown in growth provided a welcome respite that state policymakers should use to look ahead and plan for the future. "This is a wake-up call," Myers said. "We have a brief breathing spell, but we should not be lulled into complacency because growth will resume, and we have to get ready for it."

Pachon Weighs in on Bill Allowing Citizenship to Undocumented Immigrants

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December 16, 2009

The Arizona Republic quoted SPPD Professor Harry Pachon about a new bill introduced by Rep. Luis Gutierrez that would allow millions of illegal immigrants to become U.S. citizens and end a controversial program that enlists local police to enforce immigration laws. "I don't think that even Congressman Gutierrez expects his bill to pass," Pachon said. "He's showing a willingness to fight. And he's putting pressure on the Obama administration to act." Pachon is president of the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute.

Dowell Myers Reflects on Prop. 13's Future

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December 4, 2009

Speaking before an audience of more than 100 at the California Chamber of Commerce in Sacramento, Professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development, discussed how the history and future of Prop. 13 are headed in divergent directions. The lecture, "Demographics of Proposition 13: Rewriting the Old Script for a New Future," was part of the Critical Issues in Public Policy series at the USC State Capital Center.

USC Study Examines LAUSD's English-Learner Classes

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November 30, 2009

The Los Angeles Daily News cited research by the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute at USC which stressed the importance of getting students out from under the designation of "English-language learner" before they enter high school. The study found that nearly three out of 10 L.A. English-learner students spent years in English language instruction courses without being reclassified as English-fluent, and that students who moved out of English-learner classes by the third grade scored up to 40 points higher on standardized tests than students who remained in the classes.

SPPD Networking Night Draws Record Attendance

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November 30, 2009

Bucking the trend of the recent economic downturn, the Career Services Office at the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development drew a record-high attendance among employers and students alike for its Fall Networking Night. More than 100 graduate and undergraduate students packed the Radisson Hotel Ballroom Oct. 13 to meet and interact with nearly 80 employers representing the public, private and not-for-profit sectors.

Faculty Earn National Institutes of Health Award

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November 30, 2009

USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development Assistant Professor Lisa Schweitzer is among a team of USC researchers to receive a $505,000 award from the National Institutes of Health for a new project, "Access to Scientific Information and Services for Latino Families with Autistic Children."

Jeffe Analyzes Opposition to Maldonado Nomination

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November 29, 2009

The Los Angeles Times quoted SPPD Senior Fellow Sherry Bebitch Jeffe about Abel Maldonado, a Republican California state senator who has been nominated for lieutenant governor. The article reported that Maldonado faces opposition from both Democrats and Republicans, with Democrats objecting along party lines and Republicans angered by his endorsement of tax hikes. However, the article noted that Maldonado is Latino, a representative of California's fastest-growing ethnic demographic. "The Democrats now have to think about voting against a Latino," Jeffe said. "And so do the Republicans."

Meyers Examines Housing Market for Retiring Boomers

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November 6, 2009

The Sacramento Bee quoted SPPD Professor Dowell Myers about the market for expensive homes that aging baby boomers might want to sell when they retire. Myers said that California's always-dependable supply of homebuyer migrants from cold climates is no longer assured. The story reported that birthrates in Mexico have fallen, meaning fewer arrivals from the south. In 2002, native-born Californians became a majority of the state's population for the first time in modern history, Myers noted.

Study Examines Effectiveness of English Language Classes

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October 29, 2009

The Los Angeles Times cited research by the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute at USC which stressed the importance of getting students out from under the designation of "English-language learner" before they enter high school, when the chances of dropping out increase. "The United States has never learned what is the best way to teach English to English learners," said SPPD Professor Harry Pachon, president of the institute. "That's really a shortcoming." The research was also featured by National Public Radio's "All Things Considered," the Associated Press, the Los Angeles Daily News, and La Opinion.

Study Looks at Expired Foods in Low-income Areas

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September 25, 2009

A USC study has found a good reason to check the expiration date on market foods. Researchers, working with residents in lower-income areas of Los Angeles, counted at least one expired poultry, beef or dairy product in about a third of the store visits made over a one-year period. USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development professor LaVonna Lewis presented some of the project's data at the 2009 California REACH US Conference.

Study: Declining Home Prices Widened Generational Wealth Gap

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September 10, 2009

The Wall Street Journal featured research by SPPD Professor Dowell Myers. The study found that California's falling home prices have widened the generational wealth gap created by the state's Proposition 13, which limited property tax rates. According to the research, people who recently bought homes have suffered the greatest loss of housing value but are getting the least tax relief. The study concluded that if the price of California property stays depressed for a while, the most recent buyers will suffer the most.

Pachon Explains Increase in Minority Voters in U.S.

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August 24, 2009

The Santa Fe New Mexican quoted Professor Harry Pachon about a new report showing an increasing number of minority voters in the United States. The changing electorate reflects the current America, Pachon said. "These numbers show that the U.S. has become a multicultural nation," he added. "Before, minority issues were black and white. Now they're multi-ethnic." Pachon is president of the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute, the story noted.

Myers Discusses Demographic Shifts, Representation in CA

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August 1, 2009

The San Francisco Chronicle quoted Professor Dowell Myers about demographic changes in California. No state has changed as much since the late 1970s as California has, Myers said. The state's electorate is becoming less and less representative of its diverse population, which isn't good for democracy, he added.

Myers Analyzes Demographic Shifts in Housing Market

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July 30, 2009

The Huffington Post quoted Professor Dowell Myers about demographic changes in the housing market. Myers has pointed to a huge sea change in the ratio of buyers and sellers that will put downward pressure on housing values over the next two decades, the story stated. "The baby boom generation has pushed up housing prices over the past three decades, as they steadily moved up the ladder and bought housing," he said. "So people think the last three decades are normal. But at some point boomers will start to cash out."

Pachon Discusses Role of Mexican Consulate in L.A.

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July 22, 2009

The Los Angeles Times quoted Professor Harry Pachon about the community support role of the Mexican Consulate in Los Angeles. The consulate has long served as a bridge between the U.S. and Mexico, but has become increasingly active in recent years, Pachon said. "It reflects the recognition by Mexico that a significant portion of its people are living in the United States. This is one of a series of steps helping the Mexican consulate be a relevant factor in the community."

SPPD Study Highlights Demographic Changes in CA

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June 23, 2009

The Sacramento Bee featured a study on California demographics by SPPD's Population Dynamics Research Group. The researchers found declining in-migration, high birth rates and a strong inclination of those born in the state to remain here -- factors which mean that the state will have to look inward for workers rather than relying on immigrants from elsewhere. "California is undergoing profound change from a land of migrants to one with a much more settled population," the researchers reported. "A majority of young adults, and soon the middle-aged, are native Californians whose entire lives have been shaped in the state."

Myers Tapped for California Census Committee

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June 22, 2009

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzennegger appointed Professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development to be part of a newly created census panel that will oversee the upcoming federal census in California.

Myers: Baby Boom Retirees May Drive Labor Shortage

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May 23, 2009

The Cape Cod Times cited a report by Professor Dowell Myers regarding a potential labor shortage as the baby boom generation retires. Over the next 20 years, the number of retirees relative to the number of working-age Americans will increase by 67 percent, according to Myers.

Myers Cited about Future of Social Security

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May 16, 2009

The San Antonio Express-News cited Professor Dowell Myers about demographics and the future of Social Security. The ratio of retired persons to workers will "compound to a 67 percent growth over the 20-year period," Myers said. "The implications for mass retirements and the struggle for replacements in the work force are profound as well," Myers wrote in his book Immigrants and Boomers: Forging a New Social Contract for the Future.

Myers Discusses Recession, Slowing Immigration

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May 16, 2009

The Los Angeles Times quoted Professor Dowell Myers about slowing immigration to outlying areas of Los Angeles. The change is a "temporary pause," and immigration will probably rise again as the economy recovers, Myers said. "Immigrants always respond to the economy," he explained. "The boom and bust cycle is totally normal."

Youth, Diversity Keep CA Well Positioned for Future, Myers Says

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May 14, 2009

The San Francisco Chronicle quoted Professor Dowell Myers about demographic changes afoot in California. "California is aging as the rest of the country is, but it's ahead of the curve in diversity and behind the curve in aging, and that's our big advantage," Myers said. "We have a more useful workforce, and we have more young people in school. That costs more money up front, but it will repay huge benefits in 10 years when the rest of the country has few young people."

Pachon Weighs in on San Gabriel Valley Election

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May 12, 2009

The Los Angeles Times quoted Professor Harry Pachon about the hotly contested congressional election taking place in the San Gabriel Valley. The top candidates are a Latino man and an Asian woman, the story noted. "Ethnicity is a factor," Pachon said. "But it's not the only factor." Pachon is president of the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute at USC, the story noted.

Myers Analyzes Surge in Citizenship among Asians, Latinos

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May 11, 2009

The Los Angeles Times quoted Professor Dowell Myers about the increase in California's naturalized Asian and Latino population. The surge in new citizens will accelerate by several years the California electorate's shift from majority-white to nonwhite, Myers said. Although that shift won't be completed until 2026, Latinos, Asians and African Americans are already joining with progressive whites to elect ethnically diverse candidates, he noted.

Myers Discusses Racial Demographics, Politics in CA

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May 11, 2009

The Xinhua News Agency (China) cited Professor Dowell Myers about racial demographics and politics in California. The surge in naturalized citizens will accelerate by several years the California electorate's shift from majority white to nonwhite, Myer said. Although that shift won't be completed until 2026, Latinos, Asians and African Americans are already joining with progressive whites to elect ethnically diverse candidates, Myers and other analysts predict.

Pachon Discusses 'American Dream' among Latinos

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May 9, 2009

The Los Angeles Times quoted Professor Harry Pachon about the American dream among Latinos. "It's the dream of having a single-family house and a white picket fence and a dog," Pachon said. Pachon is president of the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute at USC, the story noted.

California Has a Hold on Its Own

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May 6, 2009

The image of California as a land of migrants is being shattered by demographic data indicating the emergence of a newer generation of Californians that is homegrown and willing to stay in the state, according to a new study by USC researchers. The study found that today's teens and young adults will be the first generation in California history whose majority will be California-born when they assume positions of leadership in middle age.

Study Finds "Milestone" in California Demographics

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April 28, 2009

The New York Times featured a new report by Professor Dowell Myers, called "The New Homegrown Majority in California." Myers and colleagues found that for the first time in California's modern history, a majority of young people in the state were born here, the story reported. More than 70 percent of 15-to-24-year-olds living here in 2007 were native born, while almost two-thirds of 45-to-54-year-olds were born elsewhere, as were about 61 percent of those aged 35 to 44 and some 54 percent of those aged 25 to 34. "It's a watershed moment," Myers said. "There has been so much focus on immigrants, on outsiders. Now we have all these insiders. These are people who carry the future, and they're mostly homegrown."

Myers' Study Finds New "Homegrown Majority" in CA

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April 28, 2009

The New York Times featured a new report by Dowell Myers called "The New Homegrown Majority in California." Myers and colleagues found that for the first time in California's modern history, a majority of young people in the state were born here, the story reported. More than 70 percent of 15-to-24-year-olds living here in 2007 were native born, while almost two-thirds of 45-to-54-year-olds were born elsewhere, as were about 61 percent of those aged 35 to 44 and some 54 percent of those aged 25 to 34. "It's a watershed moment," Myers said. "There has been so much focus on immigrants, on outsiders. Now we have all these insiders. These are people who carry the future, and they're mostly homegrown."

Demographic Shift Will Lead to "Homegrown" CA

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April 23, 2009

The Stockton Record featured new research by Professor Dowell Myers finding that California's population will soon be mostly "homegrown" instead of coming from other states or countries. This large demographic shift indicates that more Californians are staying closer to home, that fewer workers from elsewhere will be available to fuel the economy, and that the state's institutions will be held more accountable, the story stated. The report is called "The New Homegrown Majority in California: Recognizing the New Reality of Growing Commitment to the Golden State."

Study Finds Emergence of "Homegrown Majority" in CA

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April 21, 2009

The San Francisco Chronicle featured research led by Professor Dowell Myers of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development discovering that "homegrown" Californians will soon outnumber those who came from elsewhere. The story noted that more than 70 percent of teens and young adults were born in California, up from barely half in 1990. "People have felt it's a state full of newcomers, every man for himself, we don't need to invest in the next generation because they're different," said Myers. "We're waking up to the fact that we're a self-reliant state whose future depends on who is here already." Click to view full report.

Myers' Study Discovers Major Demographic Shift in CA

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April 21, 2009

The Los Angeles Times featured research by SPPD Professor Dowell Myers concluding that "homegrown" Californians will soon outnumber those who came from elsewhere. More than 70 percent of Californians aged 15 to 24 were born and raised in the state, while nearly two-thirds of state residents aged 45 to 54 were born out of state. "It's a sea change in demography but also in political perceptions," Myers said. "We've transformed from being a state of migrants to a settled state of native Californians. We're basically becoming more self-reliant on who we have here."

Latino Enrollment in Public Schools Is on the Rise

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March 9, 2009

U.S. News & World Report featured a study by the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute at USC on Latino enrollment in public schools. Latino children now are in the majority or near majority in a number of large districts, the study found. In Chicago, 45.1 percent of first graders are Hispanic, compared with 41.1 percent of sixth graders and 35.2 percent of 12th graders. Latinos constitute 74.5 percent of first graders in Los Angeles, 63.1 percent in Houston, 68.6 percent in Dallas, and 53.6 percent in San Jose, Calif.

Congresswoman Shares Personal, Political Experiences with Students at SPPD

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February 27, 2009

During a recent discussion held at the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development, Rep. Linda Sanchez (D-Calif.) shared personal lessons and political insights from her book, Dream in Color: How the Sanchez Sisters Are Making History in Congress (Grand Central Publishing, 2008).

SPPD Alumna Solis Confirmed as U.S. Labor Secretary

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Rep. Hilda Solis, MPA '81 February 24, 2009

On Feb. 24, Rep. Hilda Solis (D-El Monte) was confirmed by the Senate to become Secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor for President Obama's administration. Solis graduated from the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development in 1981 with a master of public administration degree.

Family Sizes in Mexico May Diminish Immigration

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February 20, 2009

The San Diego Union-Tribune quoted Dowell Myers about how shrinking family sizes in Mexico could decrease immigration into the United States. American authorities are building a 670-mile fence along the border to stop more from coming, but some say such a measure is overkill, the story stated. "It's like building a dike for a flood that might not be there," Myers said. This story was carried widely.

SPPD Celebrates Its 80th Anniversary

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January 26, 2009

The USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development marked its 80th anniversary by hosting a special colloquium Jan. 16 at the Davidson Conference Center. During the conference, Dean Jack H. Knott noted that SPPD remains dedicated to advancing academic theory and making a vital impact in the world.

Republicans Need to Reach out to Latinos, Pachon Says

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January 20, 2009

La Opinion quoted Professor Harry Pachon about the future of the Republican Party. The party will have to reach out to Latinos if it hopes to build its electoral base, Pachon said. There are two reasons for the high number of potential Latino voters: the naturalization of immigrants and a new generation of young Latinos who have reached voting age, he explained. Pachon is president of the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute.

SPPD Alumna Hilda Solis Tabbed for Labor Secretary

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Rep. Hilda Solis, MPA '81 December 19, 2008

During a Dec. 19 press conference in Chicago, President-elect Barack Obama nominated Rep. Hilda Solis (D-El Monte) for Secretary of the U.S. Labor Department. Solis is an alumna of the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development, graduating with a master of public administration degree in 1981.

More Hispanics Now Fluent in English, Census States

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December 9, 2008

USA Today quoted Professor Dowell Myers about the increase in the number of Hispanics fluent in English. Homeownership and naturalization are more important gauges of assimilation than English fluency, but language is the most visible, Myers said. "What affects people the most is the language around them," he explained. "It's the most symbolic ... a real flashpoint."

New Census Trend Shows More Diversity in So. Cal

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December 9, 2008

The Los Angeles Times quoted Professor Dowell Myers about census data showing growing diversity in Southern California's suburbs. The trend reflects a broad breakdown of past housing discrimination, Myers said. "Ethnic groups of all types are integrating into suburban neighborhoods. It's the new normal," he explained. "It's not about color and ethnicity in California anymore. It's about economic upward mobility."

Myers Weighs In on New Census Bureau Methods

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December 8, 2008

The Los Angeles Times quoted Professor Dowell Myers about census methodology. The U.S. Census Bureau is offering data on a rolling basis in addition to the head count every 10 years. Some demographers are concerned that the rolling data could be misleading because it is averaged over time, the story reported. Averaging over time "only works if things aren't changing very much," Myers said. "When you have a steep trend, you want to know where things are changing now. You don't want to know where it was changing two years ago."

Anatomy of a Natural Disaster

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November 20, 2008

The impact of Hurricane Katrina continues to be felt in the New Orleans region and beyond as researchers and policymakers examine what went wrong and how to deal with the effects of a similar disaster in the future. The latest contribution comes from a team of professors at the USC School of Policy, Planning, and Development, who edited and wrote chapters for Natural Disaster Analysis After Hurricane Katrina: Risk Assessment, Economic Impacts and Social Implications.

Pachon: New Citizenship Test May Be "Step Backward"

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October 1, 2008

Professor Harry Pachon was quoted in the Los Angeles Times about the new citizenship test being phased in by U.S. immigration authorities. Some fear that the new format, which emphasizes concepts rather than facts, could result in examiners denying citizenship based on whims or prejudices, the story stated. For that reason, the new test is a "step backward," Pachon said. "There's latitude in answering the questions and that's where the problem lies," he explained. "There's potential for abuse and not knowing what to prepare for." Pachon is president of the Tomas River Policy Institute.

Myers Discusses Immigrant Settlement Patterns

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September 23, 2008

SPPD Professor Dowell Myers was quoted in Forbes about immigrant settlement patterns within the United States. New immigrants try to find a large community of immigrants with similar backgrounds, the story stated. "When people move to a new place, they want to be around those that they know," Myers said.

Experts: State Must Plan for Demographic Shift

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August 12, 2008

Professor Dowell Myers was quoted in the San Francisco Chronicle about California's budget and the state's need to plan for a demographic shift. "The state is trapped in this short-term cycle," Myers said. "If we didn't have term limits maybe we could keep Schwarzenegger around for another four or eight years and we could straighten it out," Myers added. "But we're trapped in a deadly spiral of short-term disaster."

Demographic Changes May Favor Democrats

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August 5, 2008

SPPD Professor Dowell Myers was quoted in a New York Times story about demographic changes that may favor Democrats. A younger, native-born Latino generation that has a tendency to support Democrats is coming of age, Myers said.

Pivotal Latino Vote is Courted

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July 17, 2008

Harry Pachon was quoted in a San Diego Union-Tribune story about the Latino vote in the November presidential election. "I think there's no doubt that the Latino vote is going to go Democratic," Pachon said. "The real question is how Democratic," he added. "Obama cannot be satisfied with just getting a majority. He's got to get a big majority because the incremental vote for McCain could make a difference." Pachon is president of USC's Tomas Rivera Policy Institute, the story noted.

Counties Feel Impact of Hispanic Immigrants

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June 29, 2008

Dowell Myers was quoted the USA Today about baby boomers and Latino immigrants. For a nation bracing to support 79 million baby boomers in their old age, the growing and younger population of Latinos should be viewed as economic salvation, Myers said. "Children are always a fiscal burden, yet children are also the lifeblood of every community," he explained. "What's killing Japan and threatening the economic future of Europe is that they don't have enough kids, and that's what's depriving these rural areas in America," he added. Myers is the author of Immigrants and Boomers: Forging a New Social Contract for the Future of America, the story noted.

Pachon Discusses Legacy of RFK

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June 5, 2008

Harry Pachon was interviewed on "CNN Newsroom" about Robert F. Kennedy's legacy. "The national focus on the Hispanic community is something that was new," Pachon said. "He reached out and you felt that there was really a coalition that could be made of black, Latino and white working class of, you know, voters. We all have something in common. It was very powerful at that time." Pachon is president of the Tomas Rivera Policy Institute at USC, the story noted.

Study Analyzes Assimilation of Mexican Immigrants

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May 15, 2008

Prof. Dowell Myers was quoted in U.S. News and World Report about variations among immigrant populations. "Asians show up with a lot more money, oftentimes," Myers said. "They have a higher education to begin with, and many of them are entrepreneurs." The Asian experience recalls a general rule of today's immigrants: The farther you have to migrate, the wealthier you probably were in your country of origin, the story stated. "Poor people can't afford a plane trip across the ocean, but poor people can walk across the border," Myers explained. "Poor Africans and poor Chinese can't do it."

Myers Examines Public's Misperception of Immigrants

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May 15, 2008

Prof. Dowell Myers was quoted in an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal about immigration policy. Public discourse on the subject can be colored by what Myers calls the "Peter Pan Fallacy," the story stated. "Many of us assume, unwittingly, that immigrants are like Peter Pan, forever frozen in their status as newcomers, never aging, never advancing economically, and never assimilating," Myers said. In this naive view, "the mounting numbers of foreign-born residents imply that our nation is becoming dominated by growing numbers of people who perpetually resemble newcomers," he said.

Myers Analyzes Assimilation Trends Among Immigrant Groups

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May 13, 2008

Prof. Dowell Myers was quoted in USA Today about an index aimed at measuring immigrant assimilation. An index is a futile effort, because different characteristics change at different rates, Myers said. Some changes happen in a few years, while others take a lifetime or even several generations, he said.

May 1, 2008

Professor Dowell Myers was cited in a Wall Street Journal story on Hispanic demographics in the United States. As Americans age and the baby boom generation retires, Latinos may help buttress the economy and the Social Security system, the article stated. The ratio of senior citizens to working-age people age 25 to 64 will grow to 411 seniors per 1,000 working-age people in 2030, from 250 per 1,000 in 2010, according to Myers.

Immigration Serves Interest of Older Generation, Economy

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April 21, 2008

Prof. Dowell Myers was quoted in a Los Angeles Times story about immigration policy. This week, a USC conference will bring together former federal housing secretary Henry Cisneros and other community leaders to explore ways to help immigrants better integrate into career-oriented jobs and civic life, the story reported. "It's in the self-interest of the older generation to have immigrants here," Myers said. "Even if you don't like it, you have to ask the question: Who's going to fill your jobs, buy your homes and pay the taxes for old-age support programs?" he asked. Myers is the author of the book Immigrants and Boomers: Forging a New Social Contract for the Future of America, the story noted.

Study Warns that Boomers May Burst Housing Bubble

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March 9, 2008

A recent San Francisco Chronicle story featured research, led by Prof. Dowell Myers, regarding the potential impact of baby boomers on the housing market. Myers and USC doctoral student Sung Ryu co-authored a study warning of a "generational housing bubble" that could burst as baby boomers - who have held up housing prices since 1970 - begin to retire. "The Baby Boom generation was born over a period of 18 years, and once its sell-off commences, it could dominate the housing market for up to two decades," the researchers wrote.

Research Centers and Groups

Population Dynamics Research Group

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The Population Dynamics Research Group studies the structure and trends of the population of the Los Angeles region and California as a whole to bring a population-centered perspective to planning and policymaking. Specific research areas include immigration, changes in ethnic and racial composition, tobacco use and health, education, housing, transportation, census data and alternative planning forecasts.

Tomas Rivera Policy Institute

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The Tomás Rivera Policy Institute (TRPI) is a nationally recognized policy and research organization covering issues related to Hispanic and other low-income minority groups. Founded in 1985, the institute is also well-known in the political behavior field and for its accurate assessment of community attitudes. TRPI is a recognized leader in "college knowledge," specifically the tactics necessary for negotiating acceptance to and gaining the financial support for attending college.