In 2008, Understanding Government is beginning a new look at government effectiveness on the state and local levels, and we need your help to make this happen.  When the I35W bridge collapsed in Minneapolis, when the levees broke in New Orleans, and when fires devastated Southern California, the public looked to government — to executive branch agencies on the local, state, and federal level — to save lives and help restore order.  And we all looked back and wondered what government could have done better to help prevent these tragedies.  So let us know what is happening in your area.  Bring Understanding Government’s thousands of readers a better look at government where you live, when it works and when it doesn’t.  We know enough about elections and the daily chaos of politics.  Now we need to see the best journalism from your area (including what you all think and write) about the implementation of policy and government performance.  Contact us with ideas and stories and we’ll get the word out nationwide.