The Soapbox: Brief thoughts from Daily Herald editors on suburban topics of interest
This editorial is the consensus opinion of the Daily Herald Editorial Board.
Today's clippable quote
What is one to say about June, the time of perfect young summer, the fulfillment of the promise of the earlier months, and with as yet no sign to remind one that its fresh young beauty will ever fade. - Gertrude Jekyll, British garden designer
Wishing local athletes well
We're smack in the middle of high school spring sports championship season with state titles being sought this weekend in girls soccer, boys and girls lacrosse and boys volleyball this weekend. Next weekend, state winners in softball and baseball will be crowned. Good luck and well wishes and to all those competing.
Respond to slurs
Shame on the spectator who shouted antisemitic taunts at Deerfield soccer players during a recent match against St. Viator. There's no place in sports - no place in society - for hate speech. Good for the referees who halted play after a Deerfield player reported the slurs. We hope St. Viator officials find the perpetrator and ban the person from future games.
Cyclists and safety
This week, a bicyclist was killed in Highland Park, another was seriously injured in Hoffman Estates and another in Batavia, this one just days after a crash at the same street. Many factors could be responsible, but it's clear bicyclists and motorists need to look out for each other. There is little room for error in the collision of a bicycle and a much larger motor vehicle.
Come on in ...
...the water's green. That's no problem, say Naperville recreation officials about the discolored water at Centennial Beach They said a mix of dry conditions and high temperatures promoted algae growth, but the water is regularly treated and tested for safety. They're still trying to reduce the algae, though. Thank goodness for that.
Fun, fun, fun!
Finally! Festival season is in full swing in the suburbs, and there are many to choose from this weekend. From Cream of Wheaton to Gilberts Community Days to Roselle Lions Rose Festival to a variety of free outdoor concerts and movies in the park - get outside and enjoy all of the fun that your local community has to offer.
Remembering Hudson
Kane County's police dog Hudson was honored Thursday, after he was killed recently in the line of duty while helping subdue a gun-wielding suspected vehicle thief in a confrontation with police. In two years on the force, Hudson found 100 kilos of illegal drugs and tracked more than 100 criminals and missing persons. Thanks, Hudson, Rest in peace.
Also in our thoughts
Hero pets naturally attract compassion but shouldn't overshadow human heroes. A Springfield ceremony on Wednesday recognized 136 officers statewide with a Law Enforcement Medal of Honor. The officers, more than two dozen of whom lost their lives, displayed various acts of uncommon bravery keeping our communities safe. Our thanks to them all and to the many other officers like them.