By TRICIA NEAL, Staff Writer
Somerset — The Commonwealth’s governor made a stop in Somerset Monday to kick off the Portrait of America Road Tour, designed to promote awareness of the importance of completing the 2010 Census questionnaires which will be mailed to all households this month.
Gov. Steve Beshear shared interesting statistics for Kentucky from the 2000 Census, but reminded listeners that the numbers available in census information are “used for much more than trivia.”
“It’s absolutely critical that every Kentuckian be counted,” Beshear said. “These numbers help policy makers make decisions ... and help divvy up $400 billion in financial aid for states.”
Financial assistance available as a result of census statistics has an impact on programs for senior citizens, housing, schools, economic development, and more.
Beshear explained that the process of filling out a census questionnaire is simple.
“It’s my understanding that it’s never been quicker or easier to do this,” he said. “It’s short, painless and confidential.”
Also yesterday, the public was invited to apply to work for the Census Bureau. In spite of high unemployment rates in the Bluegrass state, the Bureau is having difficulty hiring workers to go door-to-door in neighborhoods to collect census information.
In all, about 750 individuals are needed in Pulaski County to collect the information. Pay for the jobs is around $10.75 per hour, not including reimbursement for mileage. Part time and full time jobs are available.
To begin the application process, call 1-866-861-2010 or visit www.2010censusjobs.gov.
The Portrait of America event was scheduled to last from 1 to 4 p.m. yesterday; however, due to the cold temperatures, the outdoor kick-off was cut short.
