The Soapbox: Daily Herald editors offer brief thoughts on suburban topics in the news.

This week's Clippable Quote

"Guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism." - George Washington

Head of the class

Congrats to the suburban high school teachers chosen as finalists for the 2022 Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching: Otto Corzo, McHenry Community High School; Philip Culcasi, Wheaton Warrenville South; Laura Dabezic, Neuqua Valley; Kerri Largo, Hoffman Estates; Mary Lopez, Schaumburg; Miguel Parra Garcia and Michelle Marconi, Rolling Meadows; and Britnee Kenyon and Nikki Lazzaretto, Deerfield.

Keeping kids safe

The Elgin City Council has taken steps to build a pedestrian crossing north of Larkin High School to ensure the safety of some 750 students who bolt across Larkin Avenue traffic to get to fast-food places. The area sees more than 17,000 vehicles each day. Kudos to the city, police, public works and School District U-46 for working together to find a solution.

The plan is good, too

Under the plan at Larkin, fencing will funnel students to the new crosswalk on Larkin Avenue, which has a flashing beacon similar to the one already at McLean Boulevard and Van Street. It's a good, overdue idea.

Rules are rules

There's plenty of room to debate whether the state House should have expelled nine Republicans from the floor this week for not wearing masks. But two facts are unarguable. Masks are a safety precaution for the public, not just the wearer. And House rules are explicit. Masks are required on the floor. It's not leadership when lawmakers refuse to abide.

Changing menu

After closing briefly, Red Poppy Bistro in Elgin has reopened with a new concept featuring a rotating prix fixe menu of multicourse, curated meals. The change comes in response to rising food prices, supply shortages and workforce issues. It's a reminder of how some restaurants are still struggling to recover from the impact of the pandemic. Let's help when we can.

Can we get some spring training?

Woodstock Willie said we would get an early spring, but we're definitely not going to get an early glimpse of the Cubs or the Sox in spring training. It's time the owners end the lockout. Negotiations can continue while the players get ready for the season. We need something to look forward to right now.

Adaptating to change

Uncertainties and a flurry of court rulings have added to the challenges facing schools trying to adapt to guidance on masks while responding to emotional reactions from parents on both sides of the issues. Please remember that officials are trying to operate schools and keep everyone safe under complicated and difficult circumstances.

Police and drones

Proposed legislation that would give police authority to use drones in certain situations certainly seems reasonable at first glance. But those situations don't include spying and surveillance. Fortunately, the bill would keep a ban on them in place.

A hopeful gesture

This week, Illinois' first lady M.K. Pritzker bought a historic bust of Abraham Lincoln for $400,000 and donated it to the Lincoln Museum in Springfield. She said she hopes the sculpture will give Illinoisans "the opportunity to reflect on the need for unity in our own time." We hope so, too. Thanks for the gesture.