Mr. Boomer always gives me the mail that isn’t personally addressed to him (which means I get 90% of it). When we got an envelope from the U.S. Census Bureau last week I thought it was THE census form every American household will receive this Spring.
Nope, my address was randomly selected to receive the American Community Survey (ACS). They made it clear it was my address selected and not me personally which kind of hurt my feelings.
But the government really wants to hear from me. So much so that my response to both this and the 2010 Census is required by U.S. law and they made sure to put that in the letter.
This survey is so important they sent three mailings so far. The first was the letter announcing we were selected and that it was required, the second was the actual survey and the third was a card three days later reminding us to return it.
The envelope for the ACS included five pieces:
1. A cover letter again reminding me it is required by law (in bold print).
2. A glossy FAQ brochure.
3. A guide to completing the survey form (reminds me of the tax guide).
4. The actual survey which is up to 48 questions (depending on number of persons in the household) over 28 pages.
5. A large prepaid return envelope.
Why can’t they just use survey monkey? The government estimate of the time for me to complete the survey is 38 minutes so you know it is not fun. However, my answers will help them decide where to locate new schools, hospitals and community centers among other things. I’ll do it for civic good then; not the threat of Title 13, U.S. Code, Sections 141 and 193.
With my selection I have a government form hat trick going (ACS, 2010 Census and 2009 Tax Return). Maybe I should try my luck with the government sponsored gambling venture? 7-11, here I come.
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Happy Sits Saturday sharefest – let us know what lottery numbers to try!
.-= My Baby Sweetness´s last blog ..My thoughts on snow =-.
If only I knew:)
I’ve always wondered how they pick people for those things. And yes, it would be much easier if they just used Survey Monkey!
.-= Anne´s last blog ..Recycled Magazine Box =-.
Anne, thank you for your comment. I still don’t know how they picked us but I’ll do myh civic duty (however am still procrastinating).
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