The U.S. Census office opened in Seattle, celebrating with Chinese lion dancers, drummers, and acrobats. Approximately 250 people were in attendance. Congressman Jim McDermott reminded the crowd that the census is an American tradition and mandated by the U.S. Constitution.
The 2010 census count will be conducted in early spring. It is used to distribute federal funds, apportion congressional seats, and re-draw political boundaries. ♦