Soapbox: Famous last words
The Cat in the Hat is missing some whiskers. The bronze sculpture of the mischievous Dr. Seuss figure made a less-than-perfect debut outside Nichols Library in Naperville this week. A sign warns against climbing, sitting, hanging or writing on it. Wonder what the trouble-making cat would've thought of that. In the words of library board President John Knobloch: "It's a case of do what I say, not as the Cat does."
Sad, senseless tragedy
One week ago today, 2-year-old Christopher Young was in his bunk bed in his home on Aurora's west side. Tragedy struck. He fell off the top bunk, which had a railing. Christopher was just starting his life. Instead, he died that next morning from injuries sustained in the apparent freak accident. Police do not suspect foul play. It's hard to imagine the pain his family is enduring. Not only at their horrific loss, but also that the manner of Christopher's death was so nonsensical. If there's a lesson here, perhaps, it's to remember to spend as much time as you can with your kids and squeeze them tight. You never really know what tomorrow holds.
Fake ID ring at O'Hare uncovered
How terrifying was news last week that 23 people were arrested on suspicion they used fake security badges to work in critical areas at O'Hare International Airport? They worked for Ideal Staffing Solutions in Bensenville. All but two are illegal immigrants. Customs agents sparked the federal probe after noticing red flags. In all, agents found 110 of 134 badges did not match the individual to whom it was issued. What's still unclear, though, is how this happened in the post Sept. 11 era of so-called heightened security. If we are to ensure public safety, we need to have a better handle on who has access to the secure areas of our airports.
All-day kindergarten logical step
Administrators at Indian Prairie Unit District 204 are recommending that all-day kindergarten, now a pilot program, be offered at all elementary schools next year. All-day kindergarten is not a new concept, but one in step with a school district that touts itself as progressive. And it has Superintendent Stephen Daeschner's complete support. There are still issues to be resolved before comprehensive all-day kindergarten is finalized. But students in the pilot program have made fine progress in the classroom. And plans to offer both all-day and half-day options for parents is a nice touch.
Fundraiser efforts soar
Looking for something fun and unusual to do today? Just head over to Oak Brook, where a volunteer group is trying to raise money for a enclosure for two sandhill cranes -- and save taxpayer dollars. Willowbrook Wildlife Foundation holds a "Concert for the Cranes at 2 p.m. at Mayslake Forest Preserve's Peabody Estate. Funds generated by the event will build a tailor-made exhibit for the birds, considered a threatened species in Illinois. The cranes were given to the DuPage County Forest Preserve District as part of the acquisition of St. James Farm. The shelter the birds occupied was outdated and inadequate but it will cost $101,000 for a new one. The foundation offered to help out and organized the concert that includes several noted folk and acoustic-rock bands. Just shows that something for the birds isn't necessarily so.
Happy Thanksgiving
In the spirit of the original celebration -- a meal of thanks shared with family and friends -- Soapbox wishes you and yours a Happy Thanksgiving.