The Soapbox: Daily Herald editors offer brief thoughts on suburban topics in the news.

Simple and sweet

'Tis the season for holiday gift shopping, be it online or in store. While that is all fun and good, and even if sometimes unsure about what to give, always remember there is no greater gift than an act of kindness. Whenever you see the opportunity, big or small, take it. It most likely will be a gift to yourself, as well.

Simple and sweet 2

With snow in the forecast this weekend, it is doubly important to think about those neighbors who aren't able to shovel or those who are dealing with illness. That's the kind of gift you can't buy on Amazon. And how often do you get a chance to fire up the snowblower these days?

Speaking of weather

How did we manage to get two days in December that were sunny and around 50 degrees? It's like Mother Nature saw that it's been a tough year with a tougher winter looming, and we're all stuck at home and needing a good reason to get outside. And people sure did, judging by the neighborhood and forest preserve walkers. We'll take what we can get.

This week's Clippable Quote

"Guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism." - George Washington

It'll be Cougars 2.0

When the MLB announced the 119 minor league teams invited to remain major league affiliates, the Kane County Cougars weren't on the list. Later, it was learned Geneva's team would be part of the MLB umbrella and play in a new Partner League. Details to come. One of the most successful teams in Class A history lives on. That's great news for fans.

Police professionalism

The parents of a 20-year-old Black Milwaukee man admitted fearing the worst when they were called last month about a mental health crisis he was having after a crash in the Chicago suburbs. But they showered Arlington Heights police and others with praise this week for the professionalism and character showed in bringing the crisis to a peaceful end. We add our thanks and praise.

Generosity-plus

Jerome Sneed, a once-homeless 64-year-old Palatine man, was overwhelmed this week when he came home to find his apartment professionally redecorated with personal touches and donated gifts. Even more, the project, overseen by the suburban Home 2 Home agency, added to some 44,000 items the nonprofit's work has kept out of landfills.

Sharing is caring

The pandemic didn't stop Carol Stream from continuing a wonderful holiday tradition. The village's annual Christmas Sharing distribution of new toys, food and personal care items happened this week as a drive-through event. As a result, 165 families will have a brighter Christmas.

Remembering Ryan Brady

Wheeling High School graduate Ryan Brady, 34, who died in a one-vehicle crash Thanksgiving Day, brought a lifelong passion for music to his job as a vice president for Atlantic Records. At WHS, he was remembered as "not just a good musician … a great musician." An Atlantic spokeswoman said he became "a champion for artists." Our sympathies to his family and friends.