FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 6, 1999

CONTACT: Michael Orenstein (202) 606-2402 mworenst@opm.gov

OPM Director Janice Lachance Applauds Federal Employees; Agency Demos Hi-Tech Tools, Family-Friendly Programs During Public Service Recognition Week

Washington, D.C. With the Capitol dome serving as a backdrop to on-lookers, Washington-area Members of Congress, and government employees, U.S. Office of Personnel Management Director Janice R. Lachance saluted federal civil servants during opening ceremonies of Public Service Recognition Week.

I know each United States senator and representative appreciates the outstanding work you do for the nation and for the services you provide to their constituents back home, said Lachance. Whether you work in Washington, in the heartland, on one of the coasts, or have an overseas assignment, your dedication and tireless efforts on behalf of your fellow citizens are unmatched by any work force private or public, foreign or domestic.

Lachances remarks began several days of exhibits and efforts by agencies to tell their stories and perhaps convince some of the college students or other Mall visitors that working for the federal government is satisfying, rewarding and a great career option.

Public Service Recognition Week activities on the Mall run from:

Thursday, May 6 (11:30 a.m.) to Sunday, May 9 (4 p.m.)
Between 3^rd and 4^th Streets, and Madison and Jefferson Drives, NW

Program experts from more than 30 federal agencies and departments will be on hand to discuss their agencies missions with visitors and promote federal service. Representatives from the Office of Personnel Management will feature the following:

     o Employment Service will demonstrate the USAJOBS web site (www.usajobs.gov) for individuals interested in locating federal career opportunities;

     o Family-Friendly Workplace Advocacy Office will disseminate facts on benefits federal employees may be entitled to under numerous family-friendly programs and initiatives;

     o Retirement and Insurance Service will show how easy it is for federal retirees to use its web site (www.opm.gov/retire) to obtain important information about health and life insurance programs, or to make changes to their retirement accounts.

Public Service Recognition Week is sponsored by the Presidents Interagency Council on Administrative Management and the Public Employees Roundtable.

The celebration of Public Service Recognition Week is open to the media. Members of the press interested in interviewing Director Janice Lachance should contact OPMs Office of Communications at 202-606-2402.

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