Soapbox: Daily Herald editors offer brief thoughts on suburban topics in the news.
Not forgotten
Thank you to American Legion Post 187, with assistance from Elmhurst College's Lamda Chi Alpha fraternity members for creating the special display next to the Veterans Memorial in Elmhurst's Wilder Park to honor deceased Elmhurst veterans. It brought us special memories. To those who have served, and are serving now, you will not be forgotten.
Be safe out there
The long weekend means plenty of suburbanites will be hitting the road, whether to vacation out of state or just gather with friends for a barbecue. Regardless, be careful - and safe - when you get behind the wheel on this busy weekend.
Another home run
Good to see Andre Dawson - Cubs great and baseball Hall of Famer - in Lombard earlier this week for the opening of the Baby Otter Aquatic Center in his name. Dawson himself didn't learn to swim until about 14 years ago and now he's involved in helping children learn how to stay safe in the water.
Let's not jump to conclusions
A news release telling the media about a Waukegan shooting included a line referencing the race of two males observed near the scene, but emphasizing their involvement was not known. We regularly weigh whether to include race in suspect descriptions; this was clearly a case not to use it. Vague, unconfirmed statements can feed racial fears and stereotypes.
Free-for-all
The high school boys tennis championships are scheduled for Saturday morning and afternoon, weather permitting, at Hersey High School. While most of our Illinois sports finals required paid admission, this one is free, making it an absolute steal. Don't take our word for it - drop by 1900 E. Thomas St. in Arlington Heights and see for yourself.
A good law
The legislature has passed the Annie LeGere Law that clears the way for area cops to administer EpiPens during allergy-related emergencies. The law, as originally passed more than two years ago, didn't include a provision dealing with health care provider liability. The amendment, if signed by Gov. Rauner, will put cops in a better position to save lives.
Sailor comes home 76 years later
Walter Backman was 22 when the USS Oklahoma was sunk in the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Advanced DNA science led to the identification of his remains. He will be reinterred with full military honors Monday in the Batavia cemetery where his parents are buried. The military did good. And the Backman family has peace of mind.
Remembering Thomas Leahy
Thomas Leahy, who died this week at the age of 73, was more than a leader of the largest national distributor of hospitality products, American Hotel Register, in Vernon Hills. He was a constant presence in community activities and service organizations. Leahy, of Mettawa, was described as "generous, decisive, visionary." He will be missed.
Honoring the meaning of Memorial Day
We begin the holiday weekend today. Enjoy it, but don't just spend Monday in leisure or yardwork. Make a point of paying homage to the fallen, those who sacrificed on our behalf.