I don’t know about you, but I’m reflecting, rejuvenating, and rejoicing. On January 3rd, I retire from the federal government after 35 years of service.
Now, what about responding? I’m working on it. What to do the rest of my life? Maybe I’ll write the great American novel, eliminate hunger, cure cancer, or impose world peace. Or perhaps I’ll become a permanent fixture and blogger on the Understanding Government web site. Wonder which would be more valuable?
But this isn’t about me. The world isn’t always about me – or you. It’s all about “we.” We are all in this thing: government, life, and living. How the Executive Branch does its job, well or poorly, affects our lives. The more we know the better.
After more than three decades working in three agencies and dozens of offices, performing widely varying duties, and interacting with managers and employees of divergent views, skills, abilities, and attitudes, I can confidently say that most people’s hearts are in the right place.
Having said that, though, does not obviate the need for public engagement with this key branch of government. It may be “the key” branch. It’s the one on the hook to deliver those services we pay for (dearly some may some) through taxes. It’s also the one that must steer through muddy waters and perform intriguing balancing acts in implementing program that the Legislative Branch endorsed to serve various, and sometimes conflicting, political and social ends.
Many (most?) in the Executive Branch may not welcome us into their conference rooms so that we, the unwashed, may better understand their programs and assess their effectiveness in meeting them. I know well how jubilant, positive, and enthusiastic federal employees are when they hear of impending visits from General Accountability Officer (GAO) and Inspector General (IG) overseers. These watchdogs are as well-received as power outages during Super Bowl commercials or half-time activities.
Yet, oversee and meddle and second-guess and question we must. It’s necessary to highlight the nexus between the governing and the governed.
Let’s make 2006 the year that Understanding Government revolutionizes fair and meaningful examination of the inner-workings of the Executive Branch and facilitates all (journalists, government employees, citizens) to participate in this noble civic endeavor.
Happy New Year!
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YETMO: You’re Entitled To My Opinion, A Balanced Point of View
Fred W. Apelquist, III, M.Ed.
Approximately 375 words.
December 24, 2005 (Posted December 26, 2005)