CORRUPTION
Former longtime Chicago Alderman Ed Burke reports to prison. The former Chicago alderman and dean of the City Council Ed Burke has begun to serve his two-year sentence for racketeering, bribery, and attempted extortion. The onetime political boss is now confined to a low-security section of the federal correctional center in Thomson, Illinois, north of the Quad Cities.
Burke reported to prison after a saga of almost 6 years in duration. After the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) raided the alderman’s Chicago offices in November 2018, it was clear that the politician was under serious criminal scrutiny. Even after being charged with multiple federal criminal counts in January 2019, his case continued to move slowly. After numerous continuances and delays, the trial began in late 2023, more than four years after Burke had been charged. The now-former alderman (after 54 years in office, Burke did not run for re-election in 2023) was convicted in December 2023. The verdict was “guilty” on 13 of the 14 counts against him.
Former Alderman Burke’s sentencing cycle consumed an additional six months, as the prosecutors and defense counsel presented sentencing information to the court. On June 24, 2024, the court sentenced Burke to serve two years of confinement and pay a $2 million fine. Burke was then given almost three additional months to put his affairs in order. Finally, in September 2024, the former Chicago political leader reported to federal prison.
OUTDOOR SPORTS
Fall trout season set for cold open on Saturday, October 5, and full open on Saturday, October 19. The first trout season window, which will be open from October 5 through October 18, is for catch-and-release at selected sites only. The standard trout season, with a five-trout limit, will open at 5 a.m. on October 19. An Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) fishing license, including a $6.50 trout stamp, will be required for both types of fishing activities.
The full trout fishing season will be enjoyed on 60 ponds, lakes, and streams throughout the state that have been stocked by IDNR. This list includes Highland Old City Lake, in Madison County, which has been remediated and returned to the trout list. The trout list includes waters in Northern, Central, and Southern Illinois.
IDNR doubles bobcat permits for season; application deadline is Monday, Sept. 30. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) announced the doubling of bobcat hunting permits for the upcoming season. This decision shows the successful recovery of the bobcat population and teaches the importance of effective wildlife management in our state.
Bobcats have a storied history in Illinois. Once nearly eradicated from the state due to habitat loss and unregulated hunting, these elusive animals have made a remarkable comeback over the past few decades. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of IDNR and various conservation organizations, bobcats have rebounded significantly, reclaiming their rightful place in Illinois’ ecosystems.
According to IDNR, the estimated bobcat population in Illinois has been growing steadily. In fact, recent surveys indicate that there are now around 5,000 bobcats in the state, a remarkable increase from previous years. This growth is attributed to improved habitat conditions and the implementation of regulated hunting and trapping practices that ensure sustainable population levels.
Managed hunting plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy wildlife populations. IDNR has carefully evaluated the bobcat population dynamics and determined that increasing permits from 1,000 to 2,000 is both a responsible and necessary step. By allowing regulated hunting, IDNR can manage the population effectively, preventing overpopulation and associated ecological issues.
Balance must be maintained between conservation efforts and the recreational activities of hunting and trapping. Responsible hunting not only contributes to wildlife management but also provides economic benefits to local communities. The sale of hunting permits, as well as the associated spending on equipment, lodging, and food, supports local economies significantly.
The deadline for applying to IDNR for a bobcat hunting/trapping permit is Monday, September 30.