The Soapbox: Daily Herald editors offer brief thoughts on suburban topics in the news.
A sign of the return?
A final decision is yet to be made, but a recommendation to bring the Woodfield Trolley back to daily service in Schaumburg next summer is a hopeful sign that life in the suburbs may soon be returning to normal.
A joyful noise
It was a treat to hear a Schaumburg youngster practice his trumpet as he walked home from school on a recent afternoon. His music teacher will be pleased that he's making progress on "Ode to Joy."
Speaking of noteworthy kids
How about Libertyville's Roark Nietzel? The 10-year-old collected more than 100 bags of food and toys for the Libertyville Township pantry. His new Christmas campaign builds on his tradition of asking friends to bring food for the pantry to his birthday party instead of gifts. As township Supervisor Kathleen O'Connor says, "Roark is a pretty incredible young man."
Good luck to the Cardinals
The North Central College football team - defending national champion in NCAA Division III - heads to Ohio to take on perennial powerhouse Mount Union in the national semifinals today. Coach Jeff Thorne and his 12-0 squad is led by receiver Andrew Kamienski by way of South Elgin High School. Here's to a safe and productive trip.
Jonathan Carroll as Emily Litella
We were glad to see that state Rep. Jonathan Carroll recognized the "divisive nature" of his legislation to make unvaccinated COVID-19 patients pay for their treatment and decided not to pursue it.
A winning race
Suburban hotels and restaurants are getting a nice economic boost as more than 1,000 amateur and professional athletes are competing at Cantigny Park in Wheaton during the USA Cycling Cyclocross National Championships. The six-day event will draw an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 visitors.
Do you know your district?
Congressional districts were redrawn, state legislative districts were redrawn, and now Kane County districts are redrawn. Democrats and Republicans compromised over assuring all residents, especially Hispanic residents, could choose a county board member they want. We just hope voters are paying attention.
Taking the bull by the horns
Salute to Elgin and South Elgin police and animal control staff for corralling a bovine that had gotten loose on Randall Road. We say "bovine" because it wasn't totally clear it was a bull - police took their best guess, not seeing the usual signs. But we had to remind ourselves, for the article and its headlines, that a bull is not a steer is not a cow.
An amazing ride
We wish Metra Union Pacific West Line conductor JJ Keigley all the best on his retirement after an incredible 54 years with the transit service. The West Chicago man was known for his good cheer as well his spectacular tie collection and Halloween costumes. Thanks for your service, and may your next journey be a happy one, Mr. Keigley.
This week's Clippable Quote
"God gave us memory so that we might have roses in December." - playwright James M. Barrie
Heartbreaking image
The nation lost Bob Dole this week, but Liddy Dole lost a husband of 46 years. We were reminded of that in a heartbreaking photo of the former secretary of labor draped over her husband's coffin in the Capitol.
Remembering Edith Jolly
A longtime village trustee and before that a member of the local school board, Edith Jolly, who died recently at age 90, played a major role in developing the vision of what became today's Arlington Heights. That is one of her legacies. To her family, we say thanks for her many contributions. We wish them comfort.