The Soapbox: Daily Herald editors offer brief thoughts on suburban topics in the news.
This week's Clippable Quote
"All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother." - Abraham Lincoln
Happy Mother's Day
Moms have had quite a year. Working from home, parenting while working, and teaching while parenting have been part of the daily juggling act. Moms have managed all of this while ensuring their kids are happy, healthy and thriving. So this Mother's Day, let's celebrate all moms like never before for their love and unending support. And maybe give Mom some time to herself.
Do it for Mom and for Dad
Cook County health officials say getting vaccinated by Mother's Day is the best gift you can give your mom. But you can make it a combo present. If you get the first dose now and the second dose by the end of the month, then you'll be fully vaccinated in plenty of time to visit your folks in person on Father's Day on June 20.
Do it for everyone else, too
Remember, vaccination doesn't just protect you. It also protects everyone you come in contact with. And, surely the fact we now have 85% of older Illinoisans vaccinated contributed to the potential for the state to fully reopen in next month. Help your neighbors. Get your shots.
Speaking of openings
Metropolis with outdoor theater in Arlington Heights. Club Arcada in St. Charles this weekend. Ravinia this summer. There will be restrictions and rules, but if we all follow them, we just might have a summer to remember.
Continue to play sports safely, please
As things continue to open up and COVID restrictions are loosened, kids playing sports may think it's time to return to normal. But while we may be getting closer to that time, it's still important to follow the health guidelines so that as we move into summer, there's no reason to continue moving forward.
Thank a teacher
Even though the official Teacher Appreciation Week ends today, be sure to thank a teacher any chance you get. Schoolteachers have endured tremendous challenges during the pandemic. They deserve a round of applause. We see you and we applaud all that you are doing to give our kids a brighter future.
Hope for Libertvylle complex
The Libertyville Sports Complex hasn't worked out quite the way village leaders hoped when they borrowed $25 million to build the facility, which opened in 2002. But a new deal with the Canadian firm Canlan Sports may make the best of a bad situation, and brings some fresh hope that the complex can be the community gem that was once envisioned.
How's this for public service?
Itasca's Lu Semenzin didn't have to run for village office to serve her community. She just grabbed some plastic bags on her regular walks to pick up trash she finds. Then, she started a Facebook page and got others helping with cleanup. Thanks, Lu, for reminding us that we all can find ways to pitch in and help make our communities better.