The Soapbox: Red light cameras and mall improvements
Is it time to go down this road?
We wish we could be more optimistic about State Rep. David McSweeney's bill do do away with red-light cameras. Nevertheless, we like how the Barrington Hills Republican is trying to drive the conversation.
Exciting changes at Woodfield:
Woodfield, as Schaumburg Mayor Al Larson noted, doesn't sit still, but is constantly reinventing itself. The latest example is a $13.9 million upgrade, starting immediately, to modernize the common areas of the 41-year-old institution. It's great news for Schaumburg, but also for the greater local economy.
Twelve years in the making:
Hard to believe Oakbrook Center has been without a movie theater for almost 12 years. But the wait is almost over; a $50 million plan that includes a 12-screen movie theater with indoor parking, luxury seating and food and alcohol options is under way.
Why they're shaving their heads:
Over the years, we've covered St. Baldrick's Foundation events, where people shave their heads for the charity. But Ellie Ewoldt of Wheaton, mother of new foundation national ambassador Chase, age 5, makes two good points: Little is really known about the foundation's focus, childhood cancer, and you don't have to shave your head to help.
Going the extra mile:
When the Gail Borden Library in Elgin couldn't get a good selection of Spanish-language materials in the U.S., a group traveled to an international book fair in Mexico. So instead of just having best-sellers in Spanish, they're getting practical books on health, parenting, goal setting and careers. What a great way to serve the community.
Will the wait be worth it?
Des Plaines aldermen unanimously rejected plans for a 62-unit townhouse development to replace a strip mall and vacant banquet hall near downtown. They're holding out for retail; with the move to online shopping and the vacancy problems plaguing Metropolitan Square downtown, one has to wonder if the wait will prove successful.
Give it strong consideration:
The Kane County Board is considering what must be done to disband the Aurora Election Commission. Since it was established by referendum, it can only be disbanded by referendum. It'll take educating residents to get the ball rolling. At the forefront in that education is the double taxing of city residents for election services. It's time to stop.
Here comes the judge:
When Rosemont officials decided the village no longer would make public financial information regarding its entertainment venues, Mayor Brad Stephens remarked he didn't know if their position would withstand a court challenge. Thanks to the BGA, which sued Rosemont on Thursday, we're going to find out.
Development incentive:
Grayslake officials have approved a special sales tax they hope will lure developers to the long-vacant former Lake County Fairgrounds at routes 45 and 120. It would be used to reimburse redevelopment costs. The big question is: Will it be enough?
Remembering Mike Spellman:
Witty, kind, friendly, warm-hearted, caring. In reality, sportswriter was such a small part of the definition of who Mike was.