It’s been a pretty slow week in Washington — with Congress in recess, the rest of the kids want to go play, as well. We’re all looking forward to the Fourth and the attendant days of R-and-R (Aretha will be performing on the Mall, so my mom and sister and I are headed over to belt out R-E-S-P-E-C-T and laugh at my father’s dance moves).

In all seriousness, though, the Fourth’s a pretty good time to reflect on WHY the Public Service Academy and WHY now.  It was George Washington who first proposed the Academy, waaaay back when. And nearly every president has called American youth to service in one capacity or another. Building the Academy, fulfilling Washington’s dream, providing an outlet for sustained commitment to service — it’s the next step.  I’ll say it again: Get in touch with your Congressman or Rep. Write a letter to the editor. Let them know why the Academy is a good thing.

Until Monday, enjoy your barbeques! And take this quiz — you’ll love it.