The Census Follow-up

A few weeks ago, I heard a knock at the door.

I opened it and found a man, in his 30's, who identified himself as a census worker (and showed me his badge). He stated he was there to conduct a follow-up.

I explained to him, in a rather annoyed voice, that I sent in my census form with the appropriate information.

He again explained that he was there for a follow-up.

He asked me for my name, since he wanted to verify the information on the form.

I gave him the number of people living at this residence.

He again asked for my name. I told him that all he needs to know is that there were X number of people living at this residence.

He then asked to verify my phone number. I repeated the number of people living at the residence and then closed the door on him.

I guess the US Census was not satisfied with the fact that I gave them just the number of people who live with me and that they were of the human race.

I wonder what would have happened if I told them I had 13 illegal aliens living with me, in a one bathroom, three bedroom house? I probably would have gotten a fruit basket with an offer of help from both Casa of Maryland and the Maryland Catholic Conference.

US Census and Catholic Churches

Over the last few weeks, I have noticed in a couple of Catholic Churches have hung up posters on the Census. Now, these posters are not inside of the Church itself but are usually on the announcement boards in the community room or some other location. The posters usually ask people to complete the census, since we need to get our fair share of $$.

First, I thought that there was a separation of Church and State. Why is the Federal government asking churches to put them up? Why are we cooperating?

Second, I thought that the census was about counting how many people in the US and where they lived. I did not realize that GREED was the motivating factor and that our Catholic churches were getting right in line with one of the seven deadly sins.

On a side note...I did complete the census and answered only the first question: How many are living at my address on April 1, 2010.

However, I did decide to have a little fun with them. On the question of race, I wrote: "HUMAN."

Did you complete it? All of it, or just the number of residents?