​Sand and gravel mining has become a highly contentious issue in McHenry County, Illinois. As reported in the Northwest Herald in February 2023, gravel sites have caused complaints among residents, raising several issues about related future developments.

One unincorporated Val-Mar County Estates resident near the McHenry Outdoor Theater described a pit some distance from his home as loud, dusty, and impacting real estate values: “We can feel and hear everything.” In response to the planned opening of a new Super Aggregates mine, residents of the Sundial Farms subdivision between Fox Lake and Spring Grove launched an opposition campaign in 2022.

The CEO of Super Aggregates held that, sometime in the next two decades, the property could become a housing development with a lake similar to other past mines that have become local parks and subdivisions, such as The Hollows in the McHenry County Conservation District, Three Oaks Recreation Area in Crystal Lake, and the Silverstone Lake subdivision in Carpentersville.

Establishing new property developments near gravel mines after depleting their aggregate avoids the significant cost of creating new road access and other infrastructure. However, residents must live near noise and dust (and potentially sell sites at a steep discount) until the developments come to fruition.

Speaking with the Herald, Illinois State Representative Jack Franks, formerly McHenry County Board chairman, described this conflict of interest as rooted in the early 2000s when “we were not growing corn, we were growing housing.” Franks helped establish the McHenry County Gravel Advisory Council to address disputes in one of Illinois’ fastest-expanding regions. Rather than impose top-down solutions, the Council brought together stakeholders such as mayors, trustees, industry representatives, and members of the public.

Legislative solutions included the state providing incentives for land reclamation after mining out parcels. Upon opening any mine, owners must purchase letters of credit or bonds that ensure future productive land use. Mining companies must also raise earthen berms that ensure the quarry is not visible from nearby homes or roadways. On-site clay and silt can fill the quarry and prepare it for other uses as mining progresses. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources ensures compliance, with the Department of Health checking water well quality.

Contentious conversations on proposed mines have continued into the present. In February 2025, the McHenry County Board overrode residents' objections in approving a Maple Valley Materials gravel pit operation near Marengo. The site, presently agricultural land, is adjacent to an existing Ozinga mining operation and has existing homes to the north and east.

The plan to move forward came despite residents collecting 900 petition signatures. The 11-6 board vote set strict rules on the project, including an increased berm height, a home-value guarantee for a property surrounded by the gravel pit on three sides, and a reduced Saturday work window. In addition, the board rejected a proposal for a ready-mix plant on site, which would have added to the noise and environmental toll. Locals described themselves as proud of their efforts, which they considered a partial victory.

​Fishing offers a glimpse into the environmental character of a region. Practiced with care, fishing becomes a quiet study of nature’s strength and limits. Releasing the catch reflects more than personal preference - it supports a growing mindset of sustainability.

From inland shallows to offshore reefs, each setting reveals unique ecological patterns. The contrast between a remote freshwater lake and a vibrant saltwater shelf highlights how fish respond to geography, climate, and human activity. These responses often unfold gradually. Returning to familiar waters season after season makes small shifts in behavior or the size of the catch noticeable, signaling changes beneath the surface.

Among recreational anglers, catch and release has become one of the most widely used conservation tools. When done properly, it protects breeding fish and helps maintain ecological balance. Many regions have adopted handling guidelines to increase survival after release. These practices, such as using barbless hooks and minimizing stress, reduce harm to the fish.

Anglers traveling abroad encounter different gear restrictions, closed seasons, and protected species. Adjusting to these standards deepens respect for each region’s environmental priorities. In many areas, fishing authorities rely on a mix of limits, licensing, and habitat management to preserve native species and ensure future access.

Freshwater trips, particularly to regions with limited development, provide a consistent view into longer-term environmental shifts. Changes in water temperature, fish behavior, or population makeup often go unnoticed without firsthand observation. Over time, these small insights, especially when shared among fishing communities, contribute to a broader understanding of ecological health.

Saltwater fishing introduces another layer of complexity. The vastness of marine ecosystems makes saltwater fish hard to monitor. Threats such as overfishing, bycatch, and habitat damage are difficult to control. Conservation-minded anglers support healthy outcomes by following responsible practices, recording catches, and limiting unnecessary harm in open waters.

Spending time in remote or unfamiliar waters also builds patience and observational skills. Anglers notice shifts in fish behavior, tide, light, or shoreline conditions. These observations enhance awareness of how ecosystems function and why they need protection. Small cues often reveal broader environmental changes.

Local guides shape how visitors engage with new environments. Their firsthand experience provides context that regulations alone cannot offer. Conversations with those who work the waters daily often leave lasting impressions. These interactions help anglers understand the connections between species, habitats, and the pressures affecting both.

Fishing in different countries also reveals how culture shapes environmental issues. In some countries, fishing supports daily life and identity. In others, natural resource limitations have led to strict control over harvest and stocking. These contrasts reflect how history, economy, and climate influence each nation’s approach to sustainability.

Experiencing multiple ecosystems side by side builds awareness through comparison. Seeing how protection or degradation affects wildlife sharpens a sense of responsibility. As a result, anglers return home with lessons that often lead to more thoughtful choices in their own waters.

Fishing travel becomes more than recreation. It turns into a way to engage with fragile ecosystems and participate in their protection. Each cast into unfamiliar waters becomes a chance to learn, adapt, and reinforce habits that benefit wildlife and the people connected to it.

​The state of Illinois' McHenry County Conservation District is responsible for the management of approximately 25,800 acres of open lands. These lands function as wildlife habitats designed for preservation and educational purposes while also providing Illinois residents and visitors to the state with a range of recreational opportunities. The district consists of more than 30 sites available for public use, including over 150 miles of hiking and cycling trails, 36 miles of horseback riding trails, 25 fishing sites, and numerous locations for camping, canoeing, picnics, and more. The McHenry County Conservation District is also replete with locations perfect for wildlife viewing, many of which can be found at the almost 20 state nature preserves.

Conservation districts are codified under several Illinois statutes that were passed following positive public referendums. These districts operate with a series of special objectives, which include the acquisition of new lands via purchase, lease, gift, or easement. Once a conservation district has acquired a parcel of land, owners are tasked with preserving and maintaining the various habitats and species comprising the area. Landowners must also maintain relevant manmade structures, such as roadways and pathways.

While some portions of conservation districts are closed to the public, others are dedicated to public education and recreation, which may generate revenue for further investment in the open spaces and wild lands.

Additional funding for districts such as the McHenry County Conservation District is derived from an annual tax levy, which can be raised to one-tenth of one percent of the land's assessed valuation. Valuations are outlined in the county budget and based on public hearings that allow for input from citizens. Additional funding comes from federal and state grants, including recreational and open space grants.

Various conservation district regulations and processes are defined by the State of Illinois Conservation District Act, which describes open lands as an "area of land or water, the preservation or the restriction of development...of which would...enhance the conservation of natural or scenic resources." Legislators may suggest an open land as a conservation district for several reasons, such as protecting a natural stream or promoting soil health. Lands may also be nominated for conservation based on their outdoor recreation value. Per the Conservation District Act, a district's boundaries must be co-terminus with those of the county and exist within the metropolitan planning region.

As of 2025, the McHenry County Conservation District is one of five such districts in the state. The Boone County Conservation District is located in Belvidere and consists of multiple conservation areas, as well as green spaces such as O.O. Stimes Memorial Park and Elmhurst Chicago Stone Wetland. District programming ranges from hunting programs to summer camps. The Macon County Conservation District, meanwhile, provides a depth of youth programming in addition to comprehensive deer herd management efforts. 

The Putnam County Conservation District consists of five wild-land parcels known for their unique bird-watching opportunities. The district centers on the Natural Lands Area, a 270-acre parcel of land that features camping sites, picnic areas, and numerous trails. Finally, the Vermilion County Conservation District provides residents and visitors with access to four county parks: Heron County Park, Lake Vermillion County Park, Kennekuk County Park, and the Forest Glen Preserve.

​Established on November 6, 2012, Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge stands as a testament to community generosity and support. Nestled in the crossroads of southeast Wisconsin and northeast Illinois, the refuge covers 12 acres, serving as a vital link connecting existing conserved lands in the region. The initiative aims to enhance over 11,000 acres of drained wetland basins, historic prairies, and forest habitats through the acquisition of lands and easements from willing sellers.

Two scenic trails, the Turner Hiking Trail and Blackmon Trail, offer visitors an immersive experience in diverse habitats. The Turner Trail, stretching 0.66 miles through prairies and oak woodlands, is open year-round for walking and transforms into a winter wonderland for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Meanwhile, the ADA-compliant Blackmon Trail, spanning 0.07 miles, winds through the Blackmon Tract, providing a picturesque spot for picnics amid wetland and woodland vistas.

Hackmatack beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its extensive 2,100 miles of trails and boardwalks, catering to strolls and challenging hikes. The refuge supports various recreational activities, including hunting, painting, drawing, photography, picnicking, running, and snowshoeing. Visitors can engage in ranger-led programs, fostering connections with the natural world.

For more information check out the Friends of Hackmatack website:
https://hackmatacknwr.org/

​Deep-sea fishing is an exhilarating and challenging activity that allows anglers to explore the ocean and catch various fish species. If you're new to this exciting endeavor, it is important to understand the basics before embarking on your first deep-sea fishing adventure.

Deep-sea fishing refers to the act of fishing in the open waters of the ocean, far from the coastline. It involves venturing into deeper waters, typically over 100 feet deep, where larger fish species reside. This type of fishing requires specialized equipment such as larger boats and heavy-duty rods, reels, and bait.

Safety should be a top priority when engaging in deep-sea fishing. Essential safety gear includes a personal flotation device (PFD) for everyone on board, a marine radio or mobile phone for communication, a well-stocked first aid kit, emergency signaling devices, and appropriate weather gear to protect against changing conditions.

Selecting the correct tackle is crucial for successful deep-sea fishing. Consider a sturdy and durable fishing rod and reel designed for saltwater conditions, a solid and abrasion-resistant fishing line, hooks, lures, bait suitable for the targeted fish species, and sinkers or weights to ensure proper depth and positioning.

Deep-sea fishing offers opportunities to catch a wide range of fish species. Common deep-sea fish include tuna, marlin, mahi-mahi, snapper, grouper, and swordfish. To increase your chances of success, research the habits of the targeted fish species, use appropriate fishing techniques such as trolling, bottom fishing, or vertical jigging, and maintain patience and persistence during your fishing trips.

Choosing the right location is crucial for a successful deep-sea fishing trip. Research local fishing reports and look for underwater structures, currents, and areas with bird activity to identify productive fishing spots. One of the best locations to explore is around shipwrecks and reefs. These underwater structures provide shelter and food sources for various fish species, making them prime fishing spots.

Shipwrecks, in particular, attract a diverse range of marine life. The wreckage creates a complex habitat that serves as a refuge for fish, including both predators and their prey. When fishing near shipwrecks, it's crucial to be mindful of potential hazards, such as sharp edges and entanglement risks.

Reefs are also vibrant ecosystems teeming with life. They provide shelter, breeding grounds, and abundant food sources for numerous fish species. Reefs attract a variety of fish, including amberjack, cobia, and barracuda. When fishing near reefs, it's essential to be aware of the fragile nature of these environments and practice responsible fishing to minimize any potential damage.

There are various techniques that can be used to enhance your chances of catching fish. One popular technique is trolling, which involves towing bait or lures behind a moving boat. This method allows you to cover a large area and attract predatory fish enticed by the fast-moving targets. By adjusting the speed and depth of your bait, you can target specific fish species.

Another technique is bottom fishing, which targets fish species that reside near the seafloor. Using sinkers or weights, you can keep your bait close to the ocean bed, where bottom-dwelling fish are located.

Deep dropping is a specialized technique used to target deep-sea species that inhabit the ocean's lower depths. It involves deploying bait or lures to extreme depths, often hundreds of feet below the surface. This technique requires specialized equipment, such as electric reels, heavy lines, and sturdy rods, to handle the catch's depth and potential size. Deep dropping can be particularly productive for snapper, grouper, and swordfish.

Finally, before starting your deep-sea fishing journey, there are a few key points to consider. Always familiarize yourself with local fishing regulations and obtain the necessary permits or licenses. In addition, research the area you plan to fish in, including weather conditions, water depths, and targeted fish species.

​Civil litigation is a complex area of law that involves resolving legal disputes between individuals, businesses, or organizations through the court system. If you are new to civil litigation, it can initially feel overwhelming. However, having a basic understanding of how it works, the different types of cases, and the reasons for filing a civil lawsuit can help you navigate the process more effectively.

Civil litigation begins when one party (the plaintiff) files a complaint against another party (the defendant) seeking legal remedies or compensation for a perceived wrong. The plaintiff outlines the facts of the case, legal claims, and the relief or damages sought in their complaint. The defendant then responds to the complaint, presenting their defense.

The litigation process involves several stages, starting with discovery. This is when both parties gather evidence and information related to the case. Discovery methods can include depositions, interrogations, and document requests. After discovery, the parties may attempt to resolve the dispute through negotiation, mediation, or settlement discussions. If the parties can't agree on a solution, the case goes to trial, where a judge or jury looks at the evidence and arguments from both sides and makes a decision.

Civil litigation covers a wide range of legal disputes. Some common types of civil litigation cases include personal injury cases, which involve injuries or harm caused by negligence or intentional actions; contract disputes, where there is a disagreement or breach of contract between parties; employment law cases, which encompass disputes between employers and employees; property disputes, such as boundary disputes or landlord-tenant disagreements; and intellectual property cases, which deal with disputes over copyrights, trademarks, patents, or trade secrets.

There are several common reasons why individuals or businesses choose to file a civil lawsuit. One reason is seeking compensation for damages or losses, such as medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, or pain and suffering. Civil litigation also provides a formal process for resolving conflicts and disputes, allowing parties to present evidence and arguments in a structured manner. Filing a civil lawsuit can be a means to protect one's rights and interests, enforce contractual obligations, or seek injunctive relief to prevent further harm. Individuals or businesses sometimes file civil lawsuits to send a message or set a precedent, particularly in cases of public interest or widespread impact. Additionally, civil litigation can hold individuals or entities accountable for their actions and deter future misconduct by ensuring legal consequences.

In civil litigation, plaintiffs can obtain compensation or relief through court orders. Typical areas of compensation include reimbursement for expenses, such as property damage and medical bills. Plaintiffs may also seek compensation for intangible losses like pain and suffering. In wrongful death cases, the decedent's family can pursue a specific cause of action. In addition, the court may decide to levy punitive damages on the defendant to deter future reckless behavior. The complaint will typically detail the plaintiff's compensation request in each area.

The statute of limitations in civil litigation is crucial for plaintiffs and defendants in legal proceedings. It establishes a deadline by which a party must bring a lawsuit, otherwise they lose the right to do so forever. The reasoning behind this limitation is to ensure that cases are dealt with on time, preventing evidence from becoming stale and making it more challenging to reach a fair outcome. It also protects defendants, who may have trouble mounting a defense due to the passage of time.

It is important to note that each civil litigation case is unique, and the process can vary depending on the jurisdiction and specific circumstances involved. Consulting with a qualified attorney specializing in civil litigation is advisable to understand the legal complexities and navigate the process effectively.

​An Illinois judge has ruled that an article signed into the 2019 version of the Illinois Township Code is unconstitutional, mainly because it only applies to one part of the state. Under to the article, McHenry County had the option to dissolve townships, the only county in the state with that ability. The issue came to a head when highway commissioner Mike Lesperance filed a lawsuit against the Nunda Township Board of Trustees.

Governor J.B. Pritzker signed the controversial law in 2019, the first step of a larger initiative to decrease property taxes for residents and roll back government influence. The ability to dissolve township governments through a simple referendum was viewed as an experiment at the time: if it succeeded in one of the state’s most populous counties, it could be expanded to other communities.

At the time the law passed, the state of Illinois consisted of 8,500 local government units, including more than 1,400 townships. In short, a township is the “smallest” and most intimate form of government for state residents. Pritzker’s law provided residents with several direct routes to the dissolution of a township, including a town board making a direct proposal to citizens. In addition, the number of signatures needed to get a grassroots proposition on a ballot was reduced by 50 percent. If a township is dissolved, governmental control transitions to the county.

Mike Lesperance, the supervisor of the Nunda Township Road District, joined with the McHenry Township Road District to sue Pritzker, stating that a law that applies to citizens of only one county is, by definition, unconstitutional. Judge Joel Berg passed the judgment. Lesperance doubted whether the state would appeal Berg’s ruling, pointing out the strength of Berg’s opinion and that the state constitution clearly states that laws cannot be limited to a select group of people or a specific region.

Pushback is even less likely, considering many of the initial supporters of the law are no longer in power. Illinois representative David McSweeney, a Republican from Barrington Hills, sponsored the law in 2019 but is no longer a member of the General Assembly. Jack Franks, a former chairman of the McHenry County Board, was another advocate for McHenry County functioning as a testing ground for the law.

Franks, who spent nearly two decades in the statehouse but left before the law’s writing and passage, pointed out that improved language could have preserved the law’s intentions while remaining constitutional. For example, laws can be made that only apply to counties with a certain population size. These same laws can be expanded to regions that do not technically apply, such as a law applicable to any county with more than one million residents or any county adjacent to such a population.

He described how townships hurt Illinois residents, partly through higher taxes. They might work in rural areas, but in more densely populated parts of the state, townships can overlap with other municipalities, including larger town and city governments.

Although Franks and supporters of the bill may raise strong points, future laws will not only need to be authored constitutionally but take a much more expansive approach to explain how a township is dissolved. The previous law simply stated that county governments would take over township roles, with no further details. Similarly, the law called for a 10 percent decrease in property taxes for former residents of a dissolved township but did not account for how the county would make up for these losses.

Reference:
https://www.shawlocal.com/northwest-herald/2023/04/21/mchenry-county-specific-law-unconstitutional-judge-rules/

​On December 9, 2008, federal agents intercepted former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich on a federal wiretap as he attempted to sell the U.S. Senate seat that Barack Obama had vacated upon his election to commander in chief. Patrick Fitzgerald, the U,S, Attorney General, dubbed the action disgraceful.

A month later, an attempt in the Illinois House of Representatives to remove Blagojevich from office resulted in a 114-1 vote in favor of impeaching him. In another vote days later, with three initial absentees now present, the votes were 117-1. The decision of many of those who voted to impeach him lay in the article of impeachment showcasing various felonies that Blagojevich may have committed.

A federal court charged Blagojevich with several counts of abuse of power in April. Other than committing the felony of attempting to sell the Senate seat, he was accused of various misconduct and plots in exchange for campaign contributions. Such acts included awarding state contracts, permits, and authorization, releasing pediatric care reimbursements to healthcare providers and institutions in Illinois, and misconduct in signing legislation that diverted revenues from casinos to the horse racing industry.

The former governor was also indicted for disregarding the separation of power as he refused to acknowledge the Joint Committee's authority on their administrative duties to prohibit or suspend rules. He also broke the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act by unilaterally expanding a state program, which was against federal and state laws. After finding Blagojevich guilty of 18 charges, the grand jury handed him a 14-year prison sentence. The sentence was upheld despite the court panel later dismissing five charges in response to his appeal to shorten his prison term.

Blagojevich's silver lining came eight years later when president Trump commuted his sentence in February 2020. Trump, who vied for the presidency under a Republican ticket, believed the sentence of Blagojevich, a Democrat, to be unfair. At one point, Trump claimed that he saw no valid reason for the ex-governor to be in prison for all those years over a phone call where nothing occurred. The former governor thanked the president and praised him for his kindness.

Trump's decision to effectively shorten Blagojevich's sentence received backlash, with some Republican congressmen in Illinois criticizing the president, claiming that Blagojevich exemplified corruption in the state and that he was unremorseful for his actions, undermining the trust of those who elected him. Democratic Representative Bill Pascrell also slammed Trump, saying Blagojevich's actions were heinous.

Blagojevich filed a lawsuit immediately after he was released from prison to challenge a Senate decision that barred him from holding any public office. Blagojevich included two state organizations as defendants in the case: the State of Illinois and the Illinois General Assembly. This inclusion violated the 11th Amendment, which prohibits citizens from suing state-level organizations. The dispute, also being considered political in nature, presented a hurdle. Eventually, the decision to ban him from holding office was ruled constitutionally valid.

While free now, the ex-governor still has to work together with the system he has sharply criticized in the past. The U.S. Sentencing Commission, for instance, requires him to abide by standard rules such as taking regular drug tests, giving authorities a sample of his DNA, performing community service, and not engaging in any form of crime, whether at the federal, state, or local level.

​Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is home to many beaches and diversions that it is impossible to see and do everything in one trip. Tourists can visit the country's museums, restaurants, bars, and events. However, before traveling to South America's most famous cities, travelers should consider a few considerations.

Rio de Janeiro sees more than five million visitors a year. While parts of Rio de Janeiro are like paradise, the country is also home to some of the world's poorest and most dangerous neighborhoods. Travelers should steer clear of these areas and stay in high-traffic areas where there are many people.

Travelers should be careful not to carry large amounts of money or expensive jewelry or electronics. The risk of pickpockets is high on busy city streets, and wearing flashy jewelry makes a tourist a target for this type of theft. A strategy for preventing pickpockets is to wear backpacks and bags in front to make them more difficult to snatch.

Visitors should also have an international data plan for their cell phones. At a minimum, they should enable roaming on their cell phones to avoid problems using their phone apps and incurring high fees from overseas carriers.

Hiring a tour guide can help visitors see popular diversions and little-known places. However, visitors who prefer the DIY experience can rent bicycles in many places.

With or without a tour guide, travelers should consider visiting Christ the Redeemer, the statue that stands above the city and looks out on the Atlantic Ocean. However, weekends are the busiest times to visit this cultural landmark. For those who prefer a less stressful experience, consider visiting on weekdays.

Those who want to escape the city's hectic buzz can visit Arraial do Cabo, a farming village outside Rio de Janeiro. The area has a pristine coastline where visitors can relax and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.

People who have visited the city suggest saving money on taking taxis by traveling by public transportation. However, US bus systems differ from Brazil in that passengers must call for a ride instead of sitting at a bus stop to catch a ride. Furthermore, the buses might not stop if many people are at the stop unless they raise their hands.

Brazilian cities are more expensive than the countryside. Some who have traveled to Rio de Janeiro advise visitors to expect to pay more for hotels, transportation, concierge services, and meals they might purchase in fast food restaurants. For this reason, travelers should plan to save more for the trip.

Travelers can also try the country's diverse diet. Brazil's cuisine has flavors from Africa, the Amazon, and Portugal, which appear in their fish, soups, salads, and sweets. Moreover, the country is known for grilling and steakhouses, which should be on every foodie's list.

Finally, visitors should make sure to get cash at the airport. While most vendors and restaurants take credit cards, carrying cash is a good idea, just in case. Plus, many banks in the city do not recognize American banks, including the major ones.