Every ten years since the founding of our republic, the U.S. government has taken a census of its citizens. The original reason was to allocate Congressional representation — to make sure that all groups of citizens have an equal say in their government. At present, there’s one congressperson for every 650,000 people or so — after this census, it will be closer to 700,000.
Money for most government programs is also allocated according to population. Knowing how many people live in a community is essential to getting our fair share. Highways, police and fire protection, water resources, education programs, and countless other programs depend on a true count of residents here and in every other community.
It’s also important to know who makes up those residents. Are there
lots of old people and few children, or vice versa? Without that
information, how can we know whether to build schools or retirement
centers? Facts about racial and ethnic diversity, income levels, and
other information also help our representatives know what we need.
So when the census form arrives, fill it out completely and
correctly, and send it back in right away. As Americans, it’s the only
way we’ll know who we are – and the only way to get our fair share.
Arts & EntertainmentInternational Ambassador of Hip-Hop, Rennie Harris PuremovementWednesday, 11 January 2012
The preeminent hip-hop dance company in the world, Rennie Harris Puremovement brings pure, contagious stage magic to Diana Wortham Theatre at Pack Place at 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday, February 23-24, 2012.
Win Tickets to this Performance!
Click here for details + Full Story
Arts & EntertainmentWin Tickets to the Rennie Harris Puremovement performanceTuesday, 10 January 2012
For Local Middle School or High School Students Only
Question: Please tell us in 200 words or less why Hip-Hop should be considered an art form. Your essay will be judged by the staff of the Urban News, and featured in the February edition, along with your picture. The... + Full Story
Our TownThe People’s Scholar, Dr. Boyce Watkins, to Keynote Prayer BreakfastWednesday, 11 January 2012
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Association of Asheville & Buncombe County announced that Dr. Boyce Watkins will give the keynote address at the 31st annual Prayer Breakfast honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The breakfast will be the highlight of a series of events from Wednesday,... + Full Story
Our TownGetting to Diversity, Inclusion, and Cultural Competence in Multicultural EnvironmentsWednesday, 11 January 2012
by Don C. Locke
Why “getting to?” Every organization is dynamic in terms of diversity and inclusion. Every organization is in the process of becoming diverse and inclusive. If we really believe in the importance of all people and groups, then every organization has room to... + Full Story
CommunitiesMLK Week Events & CelebrationsWednesday, 11 January 2012
31st Annual Prayer Breakfast - 8:30 a.m.
The Prayer Breakfast begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Grand
Ballroom of the historic Grove Park Inn & Resort at 290 Macon
Avenue. Guest speaker Dr. Boyce Watkins will be joined by the Unity
& Fellowship Choir and other distinguished guests.... + Full Story
