The Soapbox
Bursting with pride:
Two students from Illinois are among the 141 Presidential Scholars recognized for excellence in academics or the arts. Congrats to Siqi Liu of Naperville Central and Joseph A. Popelka of Benet Academy in Lisle, who were selected by the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars.
Putting on the brakes:
At least a couple suburban lawmakers are willing to try something to tame the explosion of governmental units in the country. Democratic state Rep. Jack Franks of Marengo proposed a legal moratorium on creating new units. Republican state Sen. Michael Connelly of Lisle is pushing the idea in the Senate. You have to start somewhere.
Divisive move:
Elected village officials must diligently protect against conflicts of interest but the last-minute move to block a two-week reappointment of Martin Sussman to the Buffalo Grove disabilities commission because he's married to the new village president feels petty.
Finally:
It's taken 20 years, but a plan is in place to close a 1,500-foot gap on the Des Plaines River Trail in Lake County. Money hadn't been the holdup. Forest preserve district officials had to work out a deal for the parcel with the property owner, Gus Bosnos. Good things come to those who wait.
The Barrington Egg Harbor move:
We understand the Barrington Egg Harbor's desire for a larger space, which it got with its opening Wednesday in the new Barrington Village Center. Good luck to the restaurant, and thanks for staying in town. Still, we hope this doesn't spell doom for the former site, a charming spot on Northwest Highway.
Classy goal:
The Fremd High School Class of 1975 reports it is nearing its target of $10,000 for a gift to the Fremd Class of 2015 to fight bullying. The money will support two scholarships recognizing students who've overcome bullying and those who've stood up for bullied students. Thanks to all who've contributed.
Next victim?
Well, the Hawks have taken care of the Predators and the Wild. Next up, either the Flames or the Ducks. Whichever it is, here's hoping for the same intensity and consistency they've brought to the NHL Stanley Cup playoffs so far.
And on the hardcourt?
There's still a lot to keep us on edge as the Bulls and Cavaliers battle in Round 2 of the NBA playoffs. Remember, gentlemen, intensity ... consistency.
And isn't it great?
To live in a city with two professional sports teams vying for their respective leagues' highest achievement?
Best wishes, Deb:
Longtime Food Editor Deborah Pankey, creator of our annual Cook of the Week Challenge, hung up her newspaper spatula this week to try her hand in a markedly different profession. We wish her well in her new endeavor, but we're going to miss her. All the best, Deb.
Remembering those who served:
With the observance Friday of the 70th anniversary of V-E Day, let's give thanks to all who served in the the war against the Nazis. Like today's war on terror, it was a war that had to be won.
Remembering Mom:
Sunday's her day. Be good to her.