Soapbox: Fix Randall now
Yes, it's frustrating to think more construction may be in store for Randall Road in St. Charles this year. But it's a good idea for St. Charles officials to strike a deal with Kane County to repair Randall between Oak and Prairie streets now instead of next year. It does extend the construction season in the area, and after two years of tie-ups at the nearby Route 64 intersection that were scheduled to end in October, that's not welcome news. But just think -- by next year, it's all done.
Watch and learn
The Batavia school board recently discussed a proposal by administrators that would require teachers to get permission to show an entire film in class, and demonstrate its educational value. Administrators are concerned about movies lessening instructional time. We trust that teachers select films that educate. Students can not only watch a film with their class, but they can discuss it with their peers and teacher. We hope Batavia school administrators are selective and not overly restrictive in giving teachers permission to show films. They can be a great learning tool.
Proud of this production
Kudos to the Rotolo Middle School marching band for being both talented and funny. In Friday's Batavia High School homecoming parade, they fit the overall theme of "Movie Rogues," playing the songs "Secret Agent Man" and the theme from "Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery." They followed through with costuming, as many were clad in trench coats or black suits, with sunglasses and fedoras. Parents and supporters, you have every reason to be proud.
Making it real
Geneva High School's decision to tighten penalties for student drinking at dances is smart and justified. Students who show up at a dance after drinking alcohol, or, worse yet, consume it or some other illegal substance on site know they're breaking the law. Apparently that wasn't enough for some kids in past years. So by banning those kids from dances for a year instead of a three-day suspension -- that had, in effect, become a vacation for some -- the school is hitting kids where it hurts. Let's hope they don't need to penalize anyone at homecoming tonight.
14th free-for-all
Never say nobody wants to run for political office these days. The impending departure of 14th District Congressman Dennis Hastert has unleashed a veritable free-for-all for his seat. Three Democrats and four Republicans, some well-known and others complete mysteries, have announced their intention to run for their party's nomination in the Feb. 5 primary. On the Republican side, North Aurora businessman Rudy Clai, one of the unknowns, announced his candidacy this week. He will be vying for the GOP nod with Geneva Mayor Kevin Burns, state Sen. Chris Lauzen and dairy businessman Jim Oberweis. On the Democratic side, second-time candidate John Laesch of Newark, St. Charles lawyer Jotham Stein and scientist Bill Foster of Geneva are running. A real crowd, some might say. Maybe they don't realize they won't automatically become Dennis Hastert if they win, but instead will find themselves at the bottom of the pecking order.
History on the move
Kudos to Wayne Historic Preservation Society volunteers for raising enough money to move the historic Wayne Depot downtown. More money is needed for future work, but proof of the group's success so far will come Tuesday, when the depot is moved from the Dunham Castle property to downtown starting at about 10:30 a.m.