Denver's Complete Count Committee threw a "One Year until Census 2010" celebration at Place Bridge Academy on Wednesday, April 1 from 2 - 4 p.m. Approximately 900 children and adults from the school, as well as a number of elected officials and Consuls, participated in many activities about the importance of being counted in the Census.
The purpose of the "One Year to Census 2010" celebration was to be educational and entertaining. Children enjoyed a wide variety of games, magicians, storytellers, temporary tattoos, frozen fruit bars donated by Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream, drinks donated by Coca-Cola, popcorn, World Fair displays (America, Europe, Africa and Asia/Oceania), as well as special appearances from Mark Randall, former Nuggets player, and the Denver Broncos mascot, Miles.
"The kick-off was absolutely amazing," said Councilman Paul Lopez (Dist. 3). "When I looked around and saw how diverse and beautiful the crowd was, I was humbled. I thought, this is what Denver looks like, this is what Colorado looks like, and this is what America looks like. The 2010 Census is more important than ever to demonstrate exactly what we look like and what we need based on that picture."
The main presentation was emceed by Univision's Luis Canela and Denver Public School's Alex Sanchez. Speeches by:
- Ken Santistevan, Special Assistant to the Superintendent for Community Relations, Denver Public Schools
- Cathy Lacy Illian, Regional Census Director
- Dr. William O'Hare, Funders Census Initiative
- The Governor's Executive Order was read by Tony Hernandez, Director Division of Local Government, Department of Local Affairs.
- The Mayoral Proclamation was read by Mike Roque, Director of the Denver Office of Strategic Partnerships, Mayoral Appointee.
- Councilman Paul Lopez (Dist. 3) presented the principal, Brenda Kazin, with a plaque of appreciation.