Thumbs: Politicians, police plans, polar plunges

Thumbs up to the University for selecting Christiane Amanpour as this year's Commencement speaker:

Amanpour's experiences as an international correspondent and reporter make her an accomplished speaker, and her diverse background in journalism suggests she will offer unique wisdom to graduates. Her work around the globe as CNN's chief international reporter put her in an excellent position to send off the class of 2010 into today's world.

Thumbs up to the city's new funding strategies:

The Technology Innovation Center is working with the city's Economic Development Committee to receive $100,000 in city funds as part of Evanston's economic development finance programs. This partnership indicates the city's commitment to improving the local economy, even if it means consulting outside sources. The creative approach may offer new solutions to local business owners.

Thumbs up to Northwestern for garnering national media attention with the College Democrats' event "Ethics in Politics: An evening with Former Governor Rod Blagojevich":

Inviting former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich to speak and answer a panel's questions Tuesday night might not have gathered more support for the indicted politician's case, but it did bring the spotlight to NU as local and national media outlets covered the forum. Blagojevich spoke to a sold-out crowd at Cahn Auditorium. While some students might not have liked what he had to say or even the idea of hosting Blagojevich at all, the event proved NU's status as a top-tier institution that promotes open discussion.

Thumbs up to the decline in local crime rates in 2009:

The number of crimes occurring in Evanston fell 13.4 percent last year, according to Evanston Police Department's recently released 2009 crime index. The decrease indicates good police strategy and reflects improved communication between city residents and the police force. The report suggests preventative strategies might be paying off when it comes to crime.

Thumbs up to participants of the Polar Plunge and the Super Plunge on Saturday:

Participants wearing costumes braved Lake Michigan for the Polar Plunge last weekend, sponsored by the Illinois Law Enforcement Special Olympics Torch Run. The event was a creative and hilarious fundraising strategy for the Special Olympics with participants raising a minimum of $2,500 to jump in the lake 24 times in 24 hours.