The Soapbox: Daily Herald editors offer brief thoughts on suburban topics in the news.
This editorial represents the consensus opinion of The Daily Herald Editorial Board.
This week's Clippable Quote
"What we need in the United States is not division; what we need in the United States is not hatred; what we need in the United States is not violence or lawlessness; but love and wisdom, and compassion toward one another, and a feeling of justice toward those who still suffer within our country." - Robert Kennedy
A glimmer of hope
New Yorker magazine has posted online a video of Lombard native Mark Frerichs pleading to be released from Taliban custody. It claims to have been recorded Nov. 28, 2021. We share his family's relief at least to have some indication that he is alive. And our hopes rise with theirs for a happy end to this ordeal.
What it will take
U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth is no stranger to ordeals and, a wounded veteran, no pushover to terrorists. She argues forcefully and persuasively for a prisoner exchange that seems to be the only thing between Frerichs and freedom. We hope the president, the one person who can make the call, is listening.
Keep on giving if you can
Reporters Alicia Fabbre and Katlyn Smith detailed the magnificent work food pantries are doing and how local residents have responded with donations. Shepherd of the Prairie Lutheran Church in Huntley would welcome your goodwill from 9-11 a.m. Sunday at the church, 10805 Main St. In addition to food, personal care items and cleaning supplies are needed.
No to April snow
By April, we've all just about had it with winter and put away those heavy coats. So Jake Griffin's story about meteorologists at the National Weather Service's Romeoville office forecasting the potential for a "few inches of snow" today is more than irksome. Here's praying this storm system passes us by without dropping sloppy, wet snow in its wake.
Another artistic coup for COD
The College of DuPage has done it again. After hosting last summer's "Frida Kahlo: Timeless" exhibition, the Glen Ellyn school will exhibit works by famed American pop artist Andy Warhol in the summer of 2023. The exhibit will feature pieces from Bank of America's "Andy Warhol Portfolios: A Life in Pop." We look forward to seeing it.
Delayed 'I dos'
The suburban wedding industry is awfully busy these days planning parties for those who delayed their big days during the pandemic, as reporter Barbara Vitello reported last week. We're glad to see business coming back to local venues, florists, photographers and more, and we wish 2022's brides and grooms a lifetime of happiness.
Celebrities and adversity
In the past week, we've had two prominent reminders of how human celebrities are. The hardship of Jada Plinkett Smith's alopecia was almost overshadowed by her husband's unfortunate behavior at the Oscars. Aphasia has ended the acting career of Bruce Willis. At least, one hopes their grace in the public eye helps others who are enduring similar trials.
Help a refugee
As Muslims observe Ramadan fasting starting today, suburban mosques and Islamic organizations also are making sure newly arrived refugees are welcomed into their spaces and partake of the fast-breaking meals and communal programs offered as Madhu Krishnamurthy reports. What a nice way to show what Ramadan is really about - community.