Well, I had this just about written and it disappeared! I wonder where it went...a mystery.

Today was class day and I did a presentation on the United States Census 2010. For those who don't know, the US Constitution mandates a complete census to be taken every 10 years. This is our year! Not only is taking census mandated but also the cooperation from the population is required by law. I felt that this was an issue that needed to be addressed with my non-English speakers. I was right -- they had a lot of questions. But, I think that they understood after I finished with my presentation.

One of the most interesting things I found when I was researching the Census was a language "card" (actually 4 or 5 pages long) that listed 51 different languages. In case a Census worker was speaking to a non-English speaker he/she could show them the language "card" and have them pick out the language that was spoken in that house. Then someone with the appropriate language skills could visit and get the form filled out. There were languages listed that I've never heard of. I found info about all of them except for one. Still working on that one.

In past years many of the undocumented people living in the US have not been counted. This year the goal is to count everyone. No one will be asked for documentation -- no social security numbers, no green cards, etc. I assured them that if they get the packet and return it then no one will come to their door. I also covered what to do if someone did come to their door. If they had returned the info packet then the person at the door was probably a scam artist. So, we covered what not to say and do if someone did come to their house. All in all, I think it went well.

Today the Digital Bookmobile was at our library (where we have our ESL class.) It is possible that only one other area in Texas received or is going to receive a visit from this Bookmobile. It was interesting. Unfortunately, there were some language/understanding problems but I believe everyone got the point. I will continue to work with them in this area. First, however, I probably need to learn more about it myself! I don't have a device that will accept a download but Tom does and I am sure I can borrow his.

Weather still lovely but we are supposed to get another dose of winter this weekend. I'll keep you posted!