Dear Friend: Every ten years, the U.S. Census is conducted with the goal of counting every person in the country. This count is critical for determining how to distribute more than $400 billion in federal funds that go to local, state and tribal governments every year. Census data is also used to redistribute congressional seats, redraw election districts, and determine where public programs and services are most needed.
Census questionnaires will be sent to U.S. households in March 2010, and all residents are asked to fill out the short questionnaire and mail it back promptly. It is critically important that everyone knows about the census and understands the importance of completing their questionnaire. As such, county governments are looking for volunteers to help raise awareness about the census and participate in count committees.
To get involved in Palm Beach County, visit www.pbcgov.com/census2010 for more information.To get involved in Broward County, visit www.broward.org/census2010 for more information.
Sunshine Seminar on Open Government--Citizens who want to learn more about access to public records can attend the First Amendment Foundation’s Sunshine Seminar held on September 29 from 9:00 a.m. – 2:25 p.m. at the Sun-Sentinel, 200 E. Las Olas Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. The seminar will include presentations on sunshine laws, open government, open meetings, access to public records and Florida media law. For more information or to register for the seminar, call 800-337-3518 or visit www.floridafaf.org. The seminar costs between $10 and $25.
New toll-free information line for H1N1 Swine Flu: The Florida Department of Health has launched a new toll-free information line to provide the public with updates on H1N1 Swine flu. The information line is open seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The H1N1 Swine flu vaccine is anticipated to be available in mid-October, and high risk groups such as pregnant women, people between the ages of 20 and 40, very young children, caregivers and medical workers should plan to get vaccinated. Call 1-877-352-3581or visit www.myflusafety.com for the latest information.
As always, I appreciate the opportunity to be of service to you. Please do not hesitate to contact me or my staff if you have any questions or concerns. Our district office number is (561) 470-6593.
Kelly Skidmore, State Representative, District 90