I’ve already told you that I only have to walk one block to borrow a cup of sugar from Obama, but did I also mention that Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle lives close enough to take in my mail while I’m on vacation?
Not that I’ve ever asked her to. Nor would I. But there is something about seeing a public figure in their private setting that is intriguing to me. (Reason #116 on the list of why I really need to find a hobby.)
What I’ve observed about Ms. Preckwinkle is that she exudes sensibility, from her glasses right on down to her shoes. She has that no-nonsense attitude of a fourth grade teacher or a strict school librarian, but she’s also the neighbor that you hope moves onto your block, because you just know she won’t settle for any monkey-business.
In a time when many of us are less than enthusiastic about the behavior of our politicians, it’s refreshing to me to see someone like Preckwinkle break the mold. So, here are my top five reasons why Toni Preckwinkle is more salt-of-the-earth than your average neighborhood politician. (Hmm…I wonder if she would help me with my parking ticket? Ehh…probably not.)
Reason #5: She lives in a condo.
Her digs are extremely modest compared to nearby neighbors Obama and Farrakhan, or that guy whose name has gotten so much press over the last few years, I’ll just say he lives in Ravenswood.
Reason #4: She drives an old mini-van with a small dent in the side.
For work, she gets picked up and dropped off daily by a driver in a black Ford Expedition — could be carpooling, but probably is a perk of the job.
Reason #3: She has a dog that she takes on walks in the neighborhood by herself, with doo-doo bag in hand.
The bottoms of my shoes appreciate this immensely.
Reason #2: When she’s on said walks, she usually wears a t-shirt and jeans.
There is no paparazzi presence around her in the neighborhood, so she won’t be borrowing Sarah Palin’s wardrobe anytime soon.
Reason #1: She picks up trash that she sees in the gutter and throws it away.
She’s the only neighbor on my street that I’ve ever seen do this, which impresses an anti-litterbug like me.
What famous neighbors do you rub shoulders with in your ‘hood? Brag (or complain) away in the comments box below.
