Mayor Dixon is imperious, inarticulate, and ethically challenged. And yet, under her reign, during a hellacious economic downturn, she has--so far--managed to make tough decisions on budget and services, and surround herself with competent, forward-looking people. Result: the murder rate is down, homelessness is being better dealt with, foreclosures are remedied, and looming budget issues are tackled with admirable foresight. Heronner has her problems, but she is tough, smart, and (seemingly) fearless. She has earned our respect.