Blue Islanders Encouraged to Complete and Mail-Back 2010 Census Form

Today, the U.S. Census Bureau distributed the 2010 Census to more than 130 million addresses across the nation. Mandated by the U.S. Constitution and conducted every 10 years, the census counts every man, woman and child. Mailing back the census form is the easiest way to participate in the 2010 Census, and every household should complete and mail back the form upon receipt.

“The 2010 Census is important to our community’s future. The data gathered will determine funding for vital local services as well as representation at all levels of government,” said Mayor Donald E. Peloquin. “To ensure an accurate count, join me in taking 10 minutes to fill out the form and mail it back.”

Households served by the United States Postal Service will receive their forms in March 2010. Census workers will hand-deliver forms through April 2010 in all other areas. One of the shortest census forms in U.S. Census history, the 2010 Census form asks 10 questions and takes about 10 minutes to complete.

Every person living in the residence, both relatives and nonrelatives, should be included on the form. People should be counted in the residence where they live and sleep most of the time.

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The Blue Island Police Department is proud to announce that the City’s tobacco retailers were in 100% compliance during a recent tobacco enforcement campaign. The Police Department, under close supervision of Detectives, sent covert minors into tobacco selling establishments and the minors attempted to purchase tobacco products. Every establishment licensed to sell over the counter tobacco products was targeted. Every business declined to sell the tobacco products to minors.

The Police Department’s tobacco enforcement program is funded by a grant from the Illinois Liquor Control Commission and encompasses both education and enforcement. Research indicates that the majority of adolescent smokers report having purchased their own cigarettes despite the existence of legislation forbidding this. The City of Blue Island is proud of its business community’s commitment to protect minors from the dangers of tobacco products.