Hints From Heloise
Don’t ignore the Census
Dear Readers: It’s Census time, when the formal count of the population of the entire United States is taken.
Our Founding Fathers wrote in the Constitution that every 10 years the population is to be counted.
So why is it important to know the population? Simply put, while every state has two Senators, the Census determines the number of seats each state will have in the House of Representatives, based on a state’s population. And the Census can help determine dollar distribution for government programs.
What questions will be asked? The number of people living with you, their ages, races, national origins, genders and their relation to you. You also will be asked whether you own your home or rent it. Don’t worry; your information is protected.
By now, you should have received something in the mail about the Census; don’t ignore it — by law, you must participate. You can respond online, by mail or by phone. If you haven’t responded, the Census Bureau will send someone to your home beginning in May. For more information, visit www.2020census.gov. — Heloise
TECH TUESDAY
Dear Readers: Did you know? The average compact disc (CD) holds about 74 minutes of music. — Heloise
STOP THIEF!
Dear Heloise: Think about it: A sport utility vehicle (SUV) doesn’t have a trunk, so there are fewer compartments in which to conceal personal property — merchandise, laptops, luggage if you’re traveling, etc. Get in the habit of not leaving valuables in plain sight, especially if it’s in an SUV. — Mike in Texas
IMAGINE THAT
Dear Heloise: I am astounded by the enthusiasm of your readers. Does everyone use exclamation points, or do you add them in your editing process?!! — Martin K., via email
Martin, we love the energy and excitement of our readers, and while we do edit for grammar, brevity and clarity, letters are otherwise printed as is!! Thank you for your inquiry!! — Heloise