The Soapbox

A decent decision:

Can’t say we’re ever pleased to hear of a community embracing video gambling, but if it has to happen, a town could do worse than to dedicate all its gambling revenues to children’s programs. A decent trade-off, Hanover Park.

There you go again:

And this time it’s a good thing. Another example of public-private cooperation that will benefit all — the purchase and planned restoration of Barclay’s Woods in Tower Lakes. It’s a wonderful product of efforts by Cuba Township, Tower Lakes, local conservation groups and private donors.

Just turn it off, already:

It’s unfortunate this remains an issue, but it’s commendable that AT&T and Harper College are teaming up to address texting and driving. The “It Can Wait” campaign visits the campus Thursday to allow students, faculty and community members to take an official pledge not to text behind the wheel. A pledge to make yourself and the roads safer? Yes, whatever it takes.

Public relations + action:

The troubled Antioch Rescue Squad is making changes to clean up its image after six months of lawsuits, violations and arrests, and it now has asked its PR firm to be more proactive with the community rather than reactive. That’s a positive step, as long their messages continue to be backed up by solid action.

Second chance:

The commercial flop of Mount Prospect native Lee DeWyze’s first album as an American Idol is well known. For the record (no pun intended), we’ve heard “Live It Up,” and it deserved better. So, we’re glad to hear he’ll have a new one out soon. Maybe it’ll do the sophomore jinx in reverse.

Fresh faces in politics:

At 25, newly elected Laurie Nowak of Bartlett will be the youngest person on the DuPage County Board. Her tireless campaigning helped her unseat an incumbent, and she now follows in the path of Tony Michelassi, who was 23 when first elected in 2008. A sign of a trend toward youth involvement in politics? If so, we like it.

Remove the layers:

Voters in the Prospect Heights area refused to approve the Old Town Sanitary District initiative that would have cost the average homeowner a measly $13 a year. But the vote is a call to move quickly with a referendum or legislation to do what several officials believe is needed anyway — turn sewers over to the towns in which they are located and eliminate a unit of government.

Here to help:

Another natural disaster has brought out the best in the suburbs. It’s heartwarming to see various companies and community groups mobilizing to collect nonperishable food, cleaning supplies, even items for pets to help those struggling in the aftermath of superstorm Sandy.

40-year-old rookie:

For those of you who think 40 is the age to hang up your athletic gear, June Lynch offers a different perspective. At 42, the Elgin Community College pastry student tried tennis for the first time. Three years later, she’s the star of the team and has won many accolades.

Health care choices:

The Affordable Care Act is changing health care in a big way. In this enrollment season for 2013 insurance plans, employees would be wise to attend any informational meetings that are offered. We know you’re busy, but just go.