The Soapbox: Big plans in Elmhurst schools, a mall's future in St. Charles, promises in Des Plaines and more.
It can't hurt
Message board outside a local church "In a world where you can be anything, be kind." So simple, yet so difficult for many. We all can try a little harder.
Starting the conversation
Elmhurst Unit District 205 officials say they want to "start the conversation" as they develop plans this summer for increasing science, technology, engineering and math programming, implementing all-day kindergarten and addressing building issues that could cost as much as $151 million. We hope residents let their voices be heard.
They say raze the whole mall
When the owners of old Charlestowne Mall site told the St. Charles City Council they wanted to tear down most of the mall and build apartments and townhouses instead, not only did the aldermen not object, but some said, why not tear down the whole thing . That suddenly at a meeting Monday night. It's shocking somebody finally said it.
Gender equality?
We recently spent nearly five minutes taking the multitude of pins, collar forms and tissue out of new men's shirts. Meanwhile, our women's shirt costing the same had clung to a hanger by two thin loops. Of course, at home it quickly slipped off the hangar onto the floor before making it into the washer. What's the message here?
Title time at Hoffman Estates
The top water polo teams in the Mid-Suburban League will battle today at Hoffman Estates High School, with a trip to state hanging in the balance. The new pool is well suited to the game with all-deep water and great sight lines. See for yourself. The girls' game begins at 11 a.m., the boys' at 1 p.m.
OK, prove it
With one suburban commissioner absent and another recusing himself, the Cook County board approved a controversial suburban compost facility in Des Plaines without a vote to spare. The facility's owners say the project is necessary and won't be a nuisance. If they get the remaining approvals needed, we look forward to them keeping their word.
Speaking of nuisance
St. Charles City Council members say they hope to manage complaints and fears about beekeepers through the city's nuisance ordinances. Beekeeping, they acknowledge, is useful and can make an enjoyable hobby. Something else it can make: jittery neighbors. The hobbyists and the city should keep that in mind and monitor the hobby carefully.
Take a bow
The curtain closes tonight on The Expressions, Buffalo Grove High School's award-winning show choir. The group ends its 43-year run with a final show, and that last bow will be bittersweet. The decision was made by administrators who say the choir will be replaced by other opportunities. Thanks for the music, Expressions - and the memories.
Remembering Steve Jones
Elgin Police Officer Steve Jones was only 59 when he died suddenly Sunday after feeling ill and going to the hospital. The resource officer at Kimball Middle School had earned 16 letters of appreciation, a commendation and distinguished service awards in his 28-year career. "We miss him already," Chief Jeff Swoboda said. Our condolences.