The Soapbox: Daily Herald editors offer brief thoughts on suburban topics in the news.
Truth and consequences
We've seen a lot of direct mail ads in this election campaign. Unfortunately, little of it has involved truth. In some cases, out-and-out falsehoods. In others, exaggeration beyond reality. Politicians say they are called to public service, but what service do they perform when they feed into the public's cynicism?
Speaking of cynical
Comptroller Susana Mendoza didn't do herself, or voters, any favors by apparently cutting an ad not yet intended for release in which she declares her candidacy for Chicago mayor. She still insisted her focus is on Nov. 6 "because too much is at stake," though she admitted "I'm considering a run for another office." What exactly is at stake, comptroller?
A time for solidarity
Jewish congregations in the suburbs felt a special grief after the mass murders at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. Regardless of politics or religion, we all share their apprehension. An attack on any group in America is an attack on all and a time for us to renew our commitment to solidarity.
Easy rider
Elmhurst's musician Scott Hildebrand has been traveling the globe since 2014, and sharing many of his experiences - he snared a helicopter ride with actor Chris Hemsworth in Australia - on social media. His lifestyle's not for everyone, but it's tempting fodder for anyone who daydreams of chucking the cubicle and striking out to see the world.
Time to make memories
It's postseason time in high school sports. State finals will be contested this weekend in boys soccer and boys and girls cross country while the IHSA football playoffs move to the second round. To all our student-athletes: play hard, strive to win and have fun. And make lasting memories.
Another weapon in drug war
Considering that most people who abuse prescription drugs get them from relatives, a new statewide partnership is welcome news. The Rx Abuse Leadership Initiative of Illinois is distributing pouches that make unused medications inert and safe for disposal.
Report card scrutiny
A new report card system launched this week that can help suburban schools identify strengths and weaknesses and may lead to better allotment of state resources. But some districts found the new measures also bring new challenges, especially in coordinating results with SAT as opposed to the previous ACT. It's a learning experience for us all.
Not so sweet news
For anyone raised in Arlington Heights over the past four decades, the Hubba Hubba, Tutti Frutti, Three Queens and other ice cream masterpieces made Eros Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlour a family favorite. Sad to see it all end, but thanks for the memories.
Voting traditions
More and more people are taking advantage of early voting. That's great. We hope it leads to more and more people voting. But we still think there's something special about Election Day. Tuesday's going to be an exciting day.
Remembering Gary Del Re
Gary Del Re, a career cop who died at age 69 last weekend, spent 33 years with the Buffalo Grove Police Department and Lake County Sheriff's office. That included a decade as sheriff. He co-founded and commanded Lake County's Major Crimes Task Force. Del Re was a visionary and a true gentleman. Salute.