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

"It isn't what we say or think that defines us, but what we do." - British novelist Jane Austen

Hospital largesse

When Edward-Elmhurst and NorthShore hospital systems merged, they pledged to donate money annually to organizations that promote healthier communities. And they have, with $4 million in grants split among 14 organizations, including those that serve housing, food, health and mental health needs. That's something to cheer about.

Another tale of heroism

We've been overwhelmed by inspiring stories of heroism, and this week we added one more: Tyler-Eli Powles pulled a man from a burning car in his Algonquin neighborhood before the vehicle became fully engulfed in flames. Algonquin Police Deputy Chief Ryan Markham said Powles "went above and beyond," and we could not agree more.

Call for action

Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering's testimony earlier this week about her experience during the city's Fourth of July parade that turned bloody was moving, but will it move the needle? How many more such stories must we have to hear before we act?

Party essentials

Kudos to the city of Elgin for coming up with its "Block Party in a Box," a trailer containing tents, folding tables, chairs, street barricades and other necessities for a neighborhood gathering. Neighbors knowing each other make their neighborhoods happier and safer. And block parties are a great way to bring everyone together.

Labor days minus the pay

The LIV Golf tournament in mid-September at Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove is looking for 500 volunteers. Doesn't it seem that given some players were paid north of $100 million just to join the Saudi-funded league, and this stop on the tour is being played on the private course of a wealthy man ... that they could pay these people?

Empowerment through involvement

In their new five-year plan, Palatine-Schaumburg High School District 211 leaders respond to students' desire for "a voice" in their education. How? By encouraging them to earn and use it. "All District 211 students will demonstrate involvement with the school community," reads the plan's No. 1 goal. That's the way to foster learning on many levels.

Honoring a spirit of service

DuPage County sheriff's deputies honored an officer from neighboring McHenry County when it introduced its new canine deputy. The 9-week-old bloodhound will be named "Jake" for Deputy Jacob Keltner, who was killed while helping U.S. Marshals arrest a fugitive in 2019. How uplifting to know Keltner's spirit of service will live on through Jake's work in coming years.

The relationship business

The impact of the pandemic and surging inflation took their toll on a suburban favorite this week as Gus' Diner in Rolling Meadows closed after a 14-year run. Owner Gus Diones said it wasn't just the food that drew his devoted customer base but "the relationships that we've built with people." It's sad to lose a local treasure, but we wish Diones the best for his next venture.

Ditto for the Brinkmans

In Buffalo Grove, Tom Brinkman announced his retirement after 45 years as the "helpful hardware man" at Mutual Ace Hardware. Brinkman marvels at the personal ways customers have shown their appreciation over the years. He and wife Mary, a former Palatine school principal, plan some long-delayed vacations. They take with them our thanks and best wishes.