President Obama has promised transparency in government, from the White House down to local federal employees. Sounds like a great idea; I hope he is successful in that endeavor. Secrecy in government breeds contempt and suspicion; openness fosters confidence and understanding. There are many examples of public officials, both elected and career public servants, who exemplify the common belief that what happens within the confines of government agencies should be a phone call away from access to the public.