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
"No matter how much falls on us, we keep plowing ahead. That's the only way to keep the roads clear." - author Greg Kincaid
Smart move, Alexi
Secretary of State-elect Alexi Giannoulias has named more than 100 people to committees that will provide counsel on the transition of the office from longtime SOS Jesse White. Among them is Dan Brady, the GOP lawmaker from Bloomington who ran against him last month. Brady, too, was a strong candidate.
Coats, gloves and hats are essential
The bitter cold late this week should serve as a reminder that no child should want for winter gear. In Elgin, donations of gently used coats, boots and snow pants as well as new gloves, mittens and scarves can be dropped off at any of the city's seven fire stations. You also can ask nonprofit agencies and churches across the suburbs if they're conducting any drives.
Plenty of hungry families in need
The busy holiday shopping season is well under way, but please remember some families can't afford groceries. Rising inflation has stretched families' budgets, and numerous food banks report they are struggling to meet the demand for help. Consider a donation to these invaluable organizations.
Standout among standouts
Jerilyn Damiani of Hoffman Estates is probably right that "every nurse is nurse of the year." But she's the one who got the honor for 2022 from Advocate Sherman Hospital in Elgin, where she has been a driving force in increasing strategies against human trafficking. Congratulations, Jerilyn, on making a difference in a field where everyone stands out.
A greenway irony?
It is indeed exciting to think of the possibilities as a task force considers transferring control of the abandoned Rt. 53 extension corridor so it can be turned into a greenway of inviting parks and recreation areas. But we do see some irony in converting land that was intended to relieve traffic into a project that will attract more of it. Something for the planners to remember.
Back in force
If you find yourself with some free time this weekend, check out our list at dailyherald.com/entlife/ of all the events happening across the suburbs and city. From tree lightings to holiday productions to dining with Santa to winter festivals to craft fairs to holiday light shows, there's more going on now than in the summer!
Festive and free
Some of the prettiest holiday light displays are right in our own neighboorhoods. They're easy to get to, not crowded and, best of all, free. Take a walk at dusk when lights are just coming on and the sky is a beautiful shade of pink or orange. Seeing your neighbors' creativity is part of the fun and may inspire you.
Speaking of the best and the brightest
The Daily Herald is accepting entries for our annual holiday lights contest. Upload a photo of your display at events.dailyherald.com. The grand prize winner will receive a $100 gift certificate from Ala Carte Entertainment, and there also will be prizes with Editor's Choice selections for DuPage County, the Fox Valley, Lake County and the Northwest suburbs.