Since many publications are coming out with their men and women of the year, I thought I would nominate some of our local talent for The Sun's consideration. First, how about city schools CEO Andrés Alonso and Police Commissioner Frederick H. HHHBealefeld III? These two guys have labored persistently under difficult circumstances to produce measurable — even if modest — results in their respective territories where their predecessors struggled. They have put Baltimore at times in the national limelight and make us proud.

While we're at it, let's also nominate Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake. With her even-keeled demeanor and strong focus she is able to both compromise yet still lead. She has returned pride to the mayoral office. I thought about Denise Whiting but I'll pass on that one, hon.

Clark Brill, Baltimore