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Shop Talk - March 13

The panelists talk about Sunshine Week, which is being observed this week.

Sunshine Week is described as a national initiative to promote a dialogue about the importance of open government and freedom of information. It's held to coincide with the March 16 anniversary of the birth of James Madison. Sunshine Week was launched by the American Society of News Editors in 2005.

The panelists say the week is not an attempt to punish government workers. Rather, it's a celebration of democracy, open government and the people's right to know.

The panelists would like to see governments post more information and documents on-line. This would provide greater access to the public while freeing government workers from having to dig up the information upon request.

For example, posting local government budgets on-line would allow greater access and save a lot of paper. New ordinances - such as the four Macomb ordinances to regulate large outdoor parties - should be posted on-line to better inform residents and help them more constructively participate in the discussion.

Rich is TSPR's News Director.