Send Page to a Friend Jewish groups honor Paulsen Belmont Citizen-Herald February 9, 2006 On Jan. 31, the state Association of Jewish Federations and the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston sponsored the ninth annual Legislative Reception at the Boston bar Association. The event, chaired by Steve Grossman, included leaders from the organized Jewish community and more than 60 legislators from across the commonwealth. It is one of the largest unofficial gatherings of legislators on an annual basis. Jane Matlaw, vice president of the Jewish Community Relations Council and chairman of the Public Policy Committe, presented a Legislative Achievment Award to state Rep. Anne M. Paulsen, D-Belmont. Paulsen was recognized as a tireless fighter for priorities such as public education, affordable housing, the environment and human services. She played a key role in leading the fight to restore funding for job training and placement assistance for families striving to make the transition from welfare dependence to self-sufficiency. Due to her unstinting efforts, the legislature restored more than $5 million in cuts to the Employment Services Program. "I am very honored to be recognized by the JCRC," Representative Paulsen said. "I have worked closely with it on issues that affect some of the most vulnerable people in Massachusetts." The MAJF and JCRC also presented Legislative Achievement awards to Senator President Robert E. Travaglini, Senator Susan C. Fargo, Speaker of the House of Representatives Salvatore F. DiMasi and Representative Frank Israel Smizik. Also honored with a Special Achievement Award was Somerville Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone.