Sometimes it is difficult to explain why budget priorities or tax policies have a direct impact on communities. Research shows that the way someone talks about these issues, and about government itself, can dramatically change the conversation and help to rebuild people’s confidence in what can be accomplished together. Bristol Community College, the Fall River Chamber of Commerce and ONE Massachusetts , an initiative designed to transform the realm of the politically possible in Massachusetts, held a workshop on June 14th to increase the effectiveness of communication about these issues. Noah Berger, Executive Director, Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center began with a briefing on the current state of budget and revenue policies and priorities in our state, how our past decisions have shaped that economic state, and how these decisions affect our communities and our public structures. Patrick Bresette, Associate Program Director, Public Works: the Demos Center for the Public Sector, followed with an analysis of the public's current attitudes towards government, including principles for rebuilding a fundamental appreciation of the unique role that government can and should play in society, and practical ways to implement these lessons into your daily communications. For further information, contact
 

(Top row, left and Center) Noah Berger, Executive Director, Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center leads off the morning workshop. (Top row, right) Patrick Bresette from the Demos Center for the Public Sector presents findings from research on attitudes toward the public sector. (Middle row left) Front row: Joe Martins, Peter Kortright, Nick Fischer. Back row: Deb Fastino, Cynthia Tschaampl, Patrick Bresette, Noah Berger. (Middle row, right) Karen Fischer talks with Joe Martins during the break. (Bottom row, left) Mr. Bresette discusses the implications of his research findings. (Bottom row, right) Patrick, Noah and Judy Meredith,  Executive Director of the Public Policy Institute, chat during the break.