Two major events have occurred locally and across the nation recently that have allowed every American citizen to let his or her voice be heard and truly make a difference in the way our nation operates. 

First, since last fall the U.S. Census Bureau has made a big push to ensure that every American is counted as part of the 2010 Census. TV commercials, billboards and direct mailings have repeatedly reminded us to fill out our census forms and return them as soon as possible. 

It's not just a population count. The census also helps the U.S. government divide up its Congressional districts and decide how more than $400 billion in federal funding is distributed.

The more people in a community that return their census forms, the more accurately the federal government can determine where the federal funding is needed most. 

Anson County's mail participation rates were good, with a countywide rate of 75 percent, topping both the state and national participation rates of 74 and 72 percent, respectively. The individual communities in Anson County had great participation rates, as well, with the highest at 82 percent and the lowest at 60 percent. 

For those who didn't return their census forms (or never received one in the mail), there's still time, as census workers will be going door-to-door in the coming weeks to make sure that every single American is counted. Please open your doors to these workers and give the most accurate information you can. It will only take a few minutes of your time, and can make a world of difference. 

Of course, the other recent event that allows Americans to voice their opinions just concluded with Tuesday's Primary Election. 

Years ago, many Americans— African-Americans, women— endured great suffering to ensure that we all now have the right to vote. Before that, thousands gave their lives in the American Revolution to win our freedom from Great Britain. It's an important right that should never be taken lightly. Again, it takes just minutes to drive to the polls, fill in the box next to the name of the candidate of choice and cast your ballot. Even if your candidate of choice doesn't win, at least you know you let your opinion be known. 

And if there are those who feel that the Primary isn't important, consider that several local high-profile offices faced opposition. As of this writing, the winners were not yet announced but it's possible that the sheriff and district attorney could both be unseated. 

That's an election that affects us all. 

So, if you didn't vote in the Primary, please vote this November. 

Voting every year and participating in the census every 10 years are two small ways that every American, no matter what race, no matter what religion, can make sure that he or she makes a difference in the world around them.