Many of us grew up believing the “Mom, apple pie, John Wayne, ‘do-the-right-thing’, ‘do unto others …’, etc., etc.” credo. During a conversation in downtown Columbia last week one day, another person, younger than we are, recalled growing up in a time when “if you screwed up” you would be in for a major meeting with your Mom or your Dad (of both). And if your grandparents lived next door, Grandma would be part of the (body-parts) chewing or chastising, as well. (Times have changed and some things are different; for example, Ralphie’s Mom likely would get into big time trouble today! – Yet, almost every day we seem to learn about a slew of unthinkable child abuse incidents that are far more excessive than soap.)

Without the omnipresence of technology – smart phones, computers, “spy” cameras – somehow, everyone knew what happened. The transparency of that cohesive neighborhood concept, depending on your viewpoint, was something that somehow tied communities together.

Subsequent experience in the military reinforced the characteristics of ethics, values and an “honor system.” Yeah, there will be those who will contend that these were misplaced and misguided by the times. They will claim there are reasons to shield others from information and openness. They will claim that Superman’s battle for “truth, justice and the American way” has always been corrupt and illicit.

Whatever … but we buy into the open neighborhood philosophy. And we believe that government and public trust agencies (charities, volunteer organizations, others who publicly solicit for funding)  have the responsibility to be open and transparent with the people they serve. We invite you to read the editorial in Lancaster’s Intelligencer Journal/New Era on Saturday, March 19 that addresses the issue of open government.  Without open practices, “the American people lose.”