Soapbox: Daily Herald editors offer brief thoughts on suburban topics in the news.
Focusing on what matters
A lively session on the First Amendment closed our series of five Facts Matter presentations. The programs emphasized for us the importance of our nesws mission and strengthened our resolve to provide accurate, fair and all-inclusive reporting and commentary. Thanks to all who participated and to co-sponsor, Northwest Suburban High School District 214.
Welcome, Hey Nonny
We're excited by the grand opening this weekend of Hey Nonny in Arlington Heights, a classy music venue that adds not only to the vibrancy of Arlington's downtown but also to the growing expanse of arts and entertainment in the suburbs. Used to be you had to go to the city to get your dose of culture; no more.
Speaking of culture
Congrats to Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire, which won the Joseph Jefferson Award for best large musical. The award, Chicago's version of the Tonys, went to critically acclaimed "Ragtime." There were many other suburban wins as well, a tribute to the local theater scene.
That's really putting it off
In its latest vision for the future, the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning puts the extension of Route 53 north into Lake County on the back burner. You know the concept lacks support when planners don't hold out hope for it happening before 2050.
See what you can see
When Josh Bangert learned at age 15 that he'd go blind within months, the West Chicago boy had a good cry and then came up with a list of things he wanted to see before that happened. What an inspiring way to approach such a terrible prognosis. See it all, Josh.
Anchors aweigh
When Ann Rondeau was named president of the College of DuPage two years ago, the school was mired in controversy. The retired Navy vice admiral calmed the seas quickly, working with students, faculty and board members. As she prepares for a new gig in California, we thank her for her role in COD's transition.
Not so sunny Sonny Acres
Sad news this week that Sonny Acres near West Chicago is up for sale. Famous for its popular fall festival, the farm is a true suburban landmark. Here's hoping the new owners agree to keep the farm as is - a cool place.
A warmer welcome
We'll reserve judgment for the moment on whether the $5.7 million price tag for a customer service center is justified, but we can't object to the tollway board's reasoning for wanting to provide a more welcoming atmosphere for people attending its meetings. Visitors now need passes and escorts, which Chairman Bob Schillerstrom rightly notes "can be chilling."
On the march
For a group of Stevenson High School teens, it was just a few hundred yards. For a Campton Hills man, it was 187 miles. But both marches showed a commitment to democracy. The students took a "Stroll to the Polls," to cast their first votes. Jim Coxworth hiked 13 days to Springfield to promote fair maps, term limits and just plain good government.
Remembering 'Mr. Reddy'
The family of "Mr. Reddy" Vasudevareddy Kethireddy, the Rolling Meadows man murdered Aug. 4 in Chicago, has launched mrreddy.org to benefit community activist Andrew Holmes' foundation and a campaign to build a community center. "Mr. Reddy would not harbor hate or anger for anybody," the website states. Missed but not forgotten.