Saturday Soapbox

The most surprising retirement:Be honest with us. Which of the following did you find most surprising this week?bull; That Lou Piniella was retiring as Cubs manager at season's end.bull; That softball superstar Jennie Finch was retiring as age 29.bull; That construction workers were retiring from strike duty.bull; That Rod Blagojevich was retiring from testifying in court.Lou, we thank you for that:We much preferred Lou Piniella's handling of his decision to LeBron's mishandling of his "Decision."First in, first out:OK, the rule for drivers at four-way intersections with stop signs: If your vehicle arrives first, you proceed first. When we arrive after you, don't wave us through thinking you're practicing a defensive driver technique, being polite or doing us a favor. You mean well, but you're only confusing everyone.Refreshing change:In an age when search firms clean up, freshly retired Carpentersville Village Manager Craig Anderson has shown a good deal of community spirit and selflessness. He came back to do thorough background checks on the many candidates who would replace him - all pro bono - saving taxpayers $25,000. What a terrific parting gift.Disoriented downtown:In addition to the practical problems, the railroad crossing maintenance and ongoing roadwork that shut down Palatine Road just east of Plum Grove Road in Palatine is making the area seem like a ghost town. While downtown businesses remain open and the determined driver can still get around, we can't wait for things to get back to normal.Mad for the new 'Mad' Man:When the Emmy award-winning "Mad Men" returns to AMC Sunday, the credits will reflect an important addition to the writing staff: Arlington Heights native Keith Huff. We can't wait to see what Don Draper and his fellow "Mad Men" are up to - and what unique qualities Huff brings to the series.Support for those who stutter:Let us give a warm welcome to the 2010 Friends Convention, meeting in Rosemont, for The National Association of Young People Who Stutter.Do the right thing:If given the choice, most people would rather not pay $15 to park at Six Flags Great America in Gurnee. Some enterprising visitors have found a way to park for free - in the nearby Pembrook townhouse and condominium development and walking to the park. We applaud the village board for agreeing to craft an ordinance to stop the practice.Get to know your neighbors:The tragic death of a suburban woman in house full of garbage is a good reminder of how someone can become isolated in a world full of people. Take some time to get to know your neighbors. Our communities become stronger when we watch out for each other.Mayor Vole's use of a public vehicle:Local mayors may think of themselves as simple public servants at the community level, but that doesn't mean they shouldn't be held to the same higher standard of ethical conduct expected of any national politician. Prospect Heights Mayor Dolly Vole's use of a public vehicle for campaign purposes, is not venal. But it still merits an apology and a promise not to do it again.