Staple of acquiescence

It is said that public policy is what actually runs a country. In our case, we approved the Covenant Agreement in the mid-’70s that set up our relationship with our national government.

The basic document included establishment of a presidential system of government and a seven-year guaranteed funding for the emplacement of basic infrastructure here.

Since 1977, we started electing our public officials. Our journey wasn’t necessarily all smooth-sailing but we strengthened self-government along the way.

After 46 years, I think it’s time that we turn our attention to quality policies on investment NMI-wide. It’s the only pathway to ably and capably meet the growing socio-economic needs of the islands.

We can’t afford acquiescence—accepting anything that descends from the blue skies of paradise—to dictate our way of life. We must establish an active and proactive role forging the quality of life here through a set of fully thought-out plans.

That entails time and meticulous planning that we must begin forthwith before it is too late. This requires major organizational meeting of pertinent agencies and private industry leaders—the collective goal being investments.

The view is to proactively assist current and newly established businesses reset buttons that allows growth to move forward. A bit of attention and help on small businesses should grant owners the courage to move about confidently.

Stumble
The industry has and still is supported by visitors from the Land of the Rising Sun, a market aided by our historic relationship with our Nippon brothers and sisters before the war.

However, a thriving upstart we stumbled on an unfortunate experience that prompted the exit of Nippon investment in recent past. I’m hopeful that it has been mutually resolved. The NMI can’t afford boasting arrogance dealing with countries here like Japan.

I’d stretch mini-tourism investment by asking: what’s one policy that would lift the quality of life at home? Is it a higher minimum wage? What would be its foundation?

Definitely, the answer is in a healthy economy. Do we have one now the work product hailing from both sectors? Isn’t it time that we focus on investments? In other words, we’ve consistently been out of focus. Time to reset buttons for our survival!

Disoriented:
There’s also the temptation by legislators meddling with the enforcement of policy apparently confused over their role: policy formulation or implementation? Is this really that difficult to understand?

Or is it attributable to reading deficiency, therefore the backwards recitation of their ABCs? Unsolicited interference only delays and confuses plans in progress.

Policymaking and implementation of policy are two different beasts where you’re confused of your role. Humiliating!

Shore:
Occasionally, I’d drive down Beach Road from up north just to admire the grand stretch of the calm sea to the reef and the golden beach on the shore. Then there’s the grandly colorful sunset.

Around the Puntan Muchot shoreline was where we used to follow grandpa throw-net fishing. We’d clean it up in the sand then place it in our coconut leaf-woven container. The trip was both fun and purposeful.

Deep State
There’s growing collision on the role of the so-called Deep State (appointed officials) versus the elected group.

Sure, the Deep State comprises thousands of people who have confused their role versus the duly-elected representatives of the people. Let’s say President Trump decides on a policy matter. Could Deep State staffers overrule his decision? The answer is obvious!

Now, if you’re still confused revisit the concept of the presidential system to secure clarity of understanding.

Moreover, the attempt by Dems and the media mob to remove Trump failed royally. It deserves a full handclap by all. It was an all-out effort to impeach the Donald but can’t be pinned on “high crimes” because he never committed any.

And so there’s now a long line to Washington to collectively intone “Lullaby And Good Nite” to sooth baseless political accusations versus the Donald. He may be brash but he gets the job done for our people across the fruited plain.

AETNA
At a clinic, the clerk said I’m not a member of AETNA that took me by surprise. After all, the firm continues to take money from my paycheck and I never received notice that my membership has been forfeited. I left in humiliation!

Next, there’s a note from AETNA that I should use regular medical daytime services at CHC. Is AETNA wary of what a medical emergency is about relating to cardiovascular concerns? Or does it have a qualified cardiovascular doctor to assist patients in this situation before heading to the ER?

I actually went through this frustrating experience. Therefore, I’m not just raising hell as a discombobulated member. We have “due process rights” or did you forget this AETNA? I will not hesitate employing my due process rights next time it happens!