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

"A woman with a voice is by definition a strong woman." - Melinda Gates

Prep and put away

You don't have to know a lot about small engine repair to keep your lawn mower and snowblower in good working order - but there are a few things. Read today's story from experts who explain the basics. This time between seasons is the perfect opportunity to take care of both.

Fun at the old Statehouse

Leave it to the General Assembly to take the "final day" of the legislative session a week ago Friday to 5:30 the next morning. The Democrats had made a deal (among themselves) for a budget plan with tax relief. Republicans stalled some, but Democrats didn't seem in a big hurry, either. Then the same deal was approved. Hey, it's their all-nighter.

E-bikers are making the rounds

We're seeing more people on e-bikes - bikes that provide an electrical assist - in the bike lanes and bike trails these days. More power to them! (pun intended.) E-bikes are getting more people out riding who otherwise might not. They're still good for the rider's health, and they're another way to fight auto use and therefore help the environment.

Who are the cycling speed demons now?

So now it's not just geared-up road cyclists zooming around on the trails, sometimes zigzagging among slower cyclists and walkers. It's e-bikers, too. They may even turn the road cyclists' heads. So e-bikers have to follow the advice those road cyclists hear: Leave some room, call out when passing, and maybe ease up a little.

E-bikes yes, motorbikes no

By the way, e-bikes are allowed on bike trails and bike routes - so far. Some folks would not like that to be the case. But motorbikes or mopeds should not be on trails or routes that are basically sidewalks through our neighborhoods. Sometimes they're seen speeding on sidewalks, and that's just too dangerous, for the riders and anybody on the walks.

They're already our heroes

Buffalo Grove firefighters are launching a local chapter of Project Fire Buddies, which pairs firefighters with kids who have serious illnesses. Firefighters visit them at home, play games, read and even make the kids honorary firefighters. For details, visit projectfirebuddies.org/buffalo-grove.

Monitoring hate

The restarting of the Illinois Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes after a 10-year hiatus is a welcome move under the current climate and crucial for addressing the rise in hate crimes statewide. We look forward to seeing the panel work on addressing these problems head on.

Support LGBTQ+, minority at-risk youth

In the frightening era of "don't say gay," some welcome news came with the announcement of $3 million in federal funding to help Naperville-based 360 Youth Services buy or build a permanent structure to provide shelter and health and career services to at-risk people ages 18 to 24.

Thanks for the memories, Pat

Blackhawks play-by-play announcer Pat Foley signed off Thursday night after a remarkable 42-year career calling hockey games. Foley is the voice the of the Blackhawks for several generations of fans. It's too bad the Hawks didn't give him more to get excited about this season.