The Soapbox
No big deal:
Some perspective from Anthony “Duff” Hufnagel, 93, of Glen Ellyn. He became the first person in the area to receive a heart replacement valve at Edward Hospital in Naperville though a new minimally invasive procedure. Was the World War II veteran and former POW scared? “I’ve come too close to dying too many times to be nervous,” he said.
Drought-proof football:
While our lawns, gardens and trees struggle under near-drought conditions, four suburban football fields are close to putting down some new roots. Construction of new synthetic surfaces continues at stadiums for Buffalo Grove, Geneva, Prospect and Rolling Meadows high schools. By mid-August, at least some of the area will look green.
For the lake’s sake:
Wauconda officials are seeking consultants to develop a multiyear management plan for Bangs Lake. The move was prompted by the growing problem of invasive weeds, but the plan also would include fish stocking and other issues. The problems must be addressed to maintain the health of one of Lake County’s crown jewels.
Sorry to see them go:
Folks looking for entertainment in the Northwest suburbs have two fewer places to go with the closing of Arlington Theaters in Arlington Heights and the AMF Rolling Meadows bowling alley. While there are other places movie fans and bowlers can go, a community loses something special when landmarks such as these close their doors.
Remember ‘pay to play?’:
Gov. Pat Quinn signed a bill last week that will lift campaign spending limits on any race in Illinois if a so-called super PAC gets involved. Limits come off statewide races if a super PAC spends $250,000. For all other races, the limits come off if a super PAC spends $100,000. “Fairness” is claimed as the motive. We fear a return to old habits.
Or, campaigns ala ‘Wild Midwest’:
Given that spending in governors races regularly runs into double-digit millions and hot legislative races also now run that high, it would seem that less than two years after legislators approved limits, they’ve now essentially revoked them. Sigh. Welcome back to the campaign finance Wild, Wild Midwest.
But on the bright side:
The governor this week signed into law the end of legislative scholarships. After the awards are doled out for the last time this school year, there will be no more temptation for lawmakers to hand them to their friends’ children or to reward deep-pocketed campaign contributors.
Taking extra care in the water:
As we suffer through this drought, it seems more and more people are drowning. We’ve reported on far too many tragedies this year in lakes and rivers. Please respect the water and its power. Don’t drink and swim or boat. Check for riptide warnings in Lake Michigan. Don’t ever swim at night or alone. Be careful out there.
Hang in there, sports fans:
Had enough of the seedy side of sports with the Penn State scandal, the Lance Armstrong doping investigation and the Dwight Howard trade-me saga? You’re not alone. The good news is the Olympic Games are only two weeks away, and high school sports return in August. That should be a refreshing change.