The Soapbox: Daily Herald editors offer brief thoughts on suburban topics in the news.
A welcoming community
We don't see how a rainbow flag is in conflict with the idea of a "City of Good Neighbors."
This week's Clippable Quote
"Each time a person passes by you and you say hello, imagine that person turning into a candle. The more positivity, love and light you reflect, the more light is mirrored your way." - Suzy Kassem, writer and philosopher
Who's behind the mask?
With the recent suggestion from IDPH chief Ngozi Ezike that even those fully vaccinated should consider wearing masks in public spaces, it makes one wonder. Might more people be vaccinated than you would assume based on the numbers not actually wearing masks? Maybe, but whatever the case, we all should follow these public-health directives.
Power of music
The DuPage Symphony Orchestra has entered into a long-term collaborative relationship with West Chicago. As a community partner, the orchestra will work with agencies and organizations in the city to offer programs and educational offerings. That's music to our ears.
The president in the suburbs
Over the years, a lot of presidents have visited the suburbs, and Democrat or Republican, it always has brought a wide-eyed sense of history to those of us living here - a patriotic pride beyond politics. Wasn't it nice Wednesday to feel that again?
Making the world a little better
Kudos to Yeulanda Degala and Rachael Hooker of Arlington Heights for their grass-roots campaign, Neighbors Helping Neighbors Arlington Heights. We encourage you to join.
Rockin' the suburbs
What a joy it is to celebrate the reopening of the Arcada Theater in St. Charles, with all its new bells and whistles. And, of course, the musical acts. And its exciting to see that the Genesee in Waukegan, the Metropolis in Arlington Heights, the Paramount in Aurora and other entertainment venues in the suburbs will be reopening soon too.
Let the winning begin
Vaccination can do more than just protect you against COVID-19. If you're lucky, it can also make you a millionaire, as a Chicago resident learned Friday. The unnamed person was the first Illinoisan selected from a lottery intended to encourage people to get the vaccine. Three Illinois teenagers also won $150,000 Bright Start scholarships.
And there's more ...
Future vaccine lotteries will be taking place through August. If you haven't been vaccinated yet, there is no better time. Yes, there's a slim chance that you might cash in. But even more importantly, you protect yourself and serve your country.
There is good in the world
The next time you're feeling a little bogged down by the angry discord and negative news that seems at times to be overwhelming, give thought to Elgin utility workers Kevin Smart and Matt Waterman who responded Tuesday to the quacks of a stressed mother duck and reunited it with its eight ducklings that had been trapped in a sewer hole.