State Sen. Bob M. Dearing is one class act. Dearing’s simple, post-campaign gesture made us smile this weekend.

Dearing made quick work of his Democratic opponent in Senate District 37 and he made quick work of saying “thanks” to his constituency, too.

The 27-year veteran of the Legislature made it a point to have his political campaign signs marked with a simple “thank you.”

Dearing’s gesture shows both the appreciation of a hardworking candidate and someone who has never forgotten his manners.

He sets a good example for others to follow in terms of being a gracious winner and giving credit to the voters who supported him.

Dearing is usually among the best local politicians at quickly picking up his campaign signs, avoiding the visual clutter long after the race is over.

For a number of local politicians, campaign 2007 is one for the family history books. If that’s the case, it’s time to pull up the signs and call the campaign over.

Obviously, for some of the candidates, they’re races are still too close to call or they’re definitely headed to a runoff. In those cases, keep those signs out there.

For everyone else, follow Dearing’s fine example, say “thank you” and then pick up your signs and take them home.

Remove them quickly and you’ll generate smiles; leave them lingering around for months and those smiles will turn into frowns.