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Archive for the ‘Mad Cows’ Category

The District 220 Board of Education meets Tuesday evening at 6:00 PM at the District Administration Center, 515 W. Main Street. Items on their agenda include:

A copy of the agenda can be viewed here. The meeting will be live-streamed on the district YouTube channel.

Related: “District 220 posts Notice of Tentative Budget Public Hearing,” “Dual School Board and State Rep Positions Legally Incompatible,” “D220 Abuses Taxpayer Funds in favor of Partisan Campaign,” “Ding In Her Own Words – CONFLICTED!,” “District 220 Board of Education meets this evening (07.15.25)” “Ding Doubles Down,” “Ding’s D220 Deception,” “Chan Ding running in Democratic primary in 52nd,” “Three (3) Democratic candidates queued to run for the IL 52nd District House seat in 2026

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The District 220 Board of Education meets Tuesday evening at 6:00 PM at the District Administration Center, 515 W. Main Street. Items on their agenda include:

  • FOIA Reports
  • Personnel Report
  • Salem United Methodist Church Parking Agreement
  • Consideration and Approval of Resolution Approving contract for purchase of 502, 506, 510 W. Main St. and 112 N. Hager Ave. (Nearly $1M total) properties.
  • Consideration to Approve the Destruction of Verbatim Recordings
  • Consideration to Approve the Release of Confidentiality of Closed Session Minutes
  • 2025-26 Tentative Budget Presentation
  • Capital Improvement and Facility Maintenance

A copy of the agenda can be viewed here. The meeting will be live-streamed on the district YouTube channel.

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Gov. JB Pritzker and wife MK unveil the 2025 Illinois State Fair butter cow on Wednesday, Aug. 6, in Springfield. | Capitol News Illinois photo by Jerry Nowicki

By Jerry Nowicki | Capitol News Illinois 

State officials ushered in the start of the Illinois State Fair on Wednesday with the annual unveiling of the butter cow.

The sculpture is made of 800 pounds of unsalted butter spread across a wire frame. This year’s iteration depicts a cow accompanied by an “adventurer seeking hidden treasure across the fairgrounds.” The theme for this year’s fair is “Adventure Awaits.”

“Indeed, this year will be chock full of adventures and treasures for the entire family. Music and entertainment, food and drinks, rides and contests, exhibits and displays, concerts. There will be an opportunity for everyone to experience, to learn, to grow, and we’re again proud to be able to present that not just to Illinoisans who come here to Springfield to enjoy themselves, but also to people who come from around the country, to see what Illinois has to offer,” Gov. JB Pritzker said.

The butter is “recycled,” meaning it is reused each year, rather than discarded. It was sculpted once again by Iowan Sarah Pratt.

The cow – the 104th in state history – will remain on display in the Dairy Building throughout the fair. Gates will officially open at 7 a.m. Thursday, with the annual Twilight Parade scheduled for 5: 30 p.m. later that day. The fair runs through Aug.  17 from 7 a.m. until midnight each day.

More here.

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The Barrington Hills Park District Board/Riding Club of Barrington Hills will hold their monthly meeting this evening in person and via Zoom at 6:00 PM. Some topics on their agenda include:

  • Review Of Park District Liability Insurance Policy
  • Review Of Tractor Agreement
  • Riding Center Advisory Committee Report
  • Report On Meeting With The Accountant
  • Rental Applications And Policies
  • Handling Of Time Sensitive Issues Between Meetings
  • Efficiency Measures
  • Barry Fript Remembrance
  • Change in Regular Meeting Start Tim
  • Update On Route 62 Improvements
  • South Barrington & Hoffman Estates Status
  • Administrator’s Report

A copy of their agenda can be viewed here. Instructions for accessing the meeting remotely can be found here.

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For those confused about the recent appointment of Darby Hills to the Illinois State Senate, let’s clarify the facts and the legal process unfolding in McHenry County.

The judge in this case was asked to rule on two critical issues. First, whether the Lake County Republican Chairman could retroactively remedy the fact that Ms. Hills was not a Republican after McConchie‘s retirement. Brin appointed Hills as a republican precinct committeeperson —something both she and the chairman acknowledged needed to be done to remedy this deficit. The court allowed the chairman to appoint Ms. Hills as a precinct committeeperson weeks after Senator McConchie vacated his seat, arguably ignoring the statutes requirements and effectively temporarily enabling the appointment.

The second, and more consequential issue—the heart of the lawsuit—is whether Ms. Hills was a Republican at the time of the vacancy. Rather than interpret the relevant statute, requiring a nominee have valid Republican credentials the judge declined to rule on that core question. The case is now on appeal, and the Appellate Court will be asked to determine whether state law was properly followed and whether Hills was legally eligible for appointment under party rules and Illinois statutes.

Regardless of how one defines “Republican,” Ms. Hills’ voting record in Springfield speaks volumes. In just a short time, she has cast key votes that are out of step with Republican principles—votes that were anti-Second Amendment, pro-DEI mandates, anti-business, and in lockstep with teachers’ union interests.

The outcome of this legal appeal will be watched closely. If the Appellate Court finds that Ms. Hills was ineligible for appointment, it raises serious questions:

  • Will she be allowed to retain her Senate seat?
  • Will her votes be invalidated?
  • Will she be required to return taxpayer funds paid in salary during her disputed tenure?

Of course, there remains a straightforward path to public office: campaign, knock on doors, earn support, and win an election—both in a Republican primary and a general contest. But for now, it seems, Ms. Hills has taken a shortcut, bypassing voters in favor of backroom maneuvering.

Observers, constituents, and constitutional conservatives across the state will be following this case closely—not only for what it reveals about one Senate seat, but for what it says about process, transparency, the integrity of some in the Republican party and our electoral system.

Related:Residents deserve full disclosure – an update,” “Residents deserve full disclosure,” “’No more dog and pony shows, please!” “Gun rights advocacy group expresses displeasure with terms like ‘RINO, Backstabbing Traitor’ and ‘Botox Queen’ describing a senator’s vote on Senate Bill 8,” “Darby Hills Sworn In to Represent Illinois’ 26th Senate District,” “Darby Hills chosen — again — to succeed Dan McConchie in state Senate,” “’The Fix’ is in?,” “Darby Hills’ appointment to state Senate on hold as Republicans reopen applications for McConchie’s seat,” “26th Legislative District Committee meeting cancelled,” “State Senator seat at any price?,” ”26th Legislative District Committee meeting tomorrow,” “Do Over Scheduled for Meeting to Replace State Senator Dan McConchie,” “Restraining order sought to block 26th Senate appointment amid legal fight,” “Lawsuit challenges legality of GOP appointment to 26th State Senate seat,” “McConchie’s would-be successor isn’t a Republican and can’t serve, lawsuit alleges,” “Darby Hills Appointed as New State Senator for Illinois’ 26th Senate District

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The following was posted to the Village website:

Village of Barrington Hills Response to Media Request

U-Pick Flower Farm Zoning Applications for Agritourism, Agricultural Experiences and Agricultural Sales

“Recently, the Village was contacted by a local news outlet asking for the Village’s position pertaining to submitted text amendment applications providing for agritourism, agricultural experiences and agricultural sales.

The Village of Barrington Hills is unique in that it is almost entirely a residential community. For decades, the Village’s zoning regulations have been designed to promote and protect the overall residential character of the Village.

To achieve that purpose, the Village’s zoning regulations do not allow outdoor commercial/business retail use of a residential property or other primary or secondary uses that are incompatible with single-family residential use in the Village’s residential areas.  Again, this is to protect the residential nature of these areas and the peace and tranquility that Village residents have come to expect and enjoy on their properties.

In May 2024, the Village became aware that an outdoor, commercial retail u-pick flowers establishment was operating on a single-family residential property.  This commercial business was open to the general public, open and visible to other Village residents, and advertised as a retail business on littleduckyflowerfarm.com and other media outlets.  At that time, the Village notified the Property Owners that their outdoor, commercial u-pick flowers operation on their single-family residential property was not permitted under the Village’s zoning regulations.

Since that time, the Property Owners have sought a number of Zoning Code changes requesting significant and fundamental changes in the Village’s residential zoning regulations that would allow for their outdoor, commercial retail u-pick flowers operation and could also allow other similar outdoor commercial business operations to occur on every residential single-family property in the Village.  

These proposals were thoughtfully considered by the Village’s Zoning Board of Appeals and the Village Board of Trustees in formal public zoning proceedings.  The Village’s Zoning Board of Appeals has recommended against the Property Owners’ various proposals finding that the proposed outdoor commercial use of properties is not compatible with the intended residential use of property in the Village’s residential area. The Village’s Zoning Board of Appeals was particularly concerned that under these various proposals, similar outdoor commercial operations could be allowed to occur on every residential single-family property in the Village.

The Village Board has accepted the recommendations of the Village Zoning Board of Appeals and has not approved the Property Owner’s various proposals that would allow for an outdoor, commercial retail u-pick flowers operation on residential property but would also potentially allow for other similar outdoor commercial business operations on every residential single-family property in the Village.  

The Village Board’s decisions have been based on the far-reaching implications of the proposals and not based solely in regard to any single property. In all of their decisions, the Board must carefully consider the long-term effects for the entire Village.”

Related: “Zoning Board delivers third strike to Little Ducky Farm,” “Zoning Board of Appeals Public Hearing (AGAIN) tonight,” “News to us…,” “Village Board of Trustees meets tonight,” “’Agricultural Experience’ application meets a similar fate as ‘Agritourism’ did in August,” “Zoning Board of Appeals Public Hearing tonight,” “Village Board votes down ‘Agritourism as a Special Use’,” “August Board of Trustees meeting recording released,” “Sitting ducks,” “Special Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled Tuesday

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Our Zoning Board of Appeals will be holding public hearing this evening beginning at 6:30 PM. Topics on their agenda include:

Public Hearing 

Text Amendment to Section 5-2-1 Definitions of the Zoning Ordinance to Amend the Definition of Agriculture, filed by Chris Yamamoto
Text Amendment _Agriculture-Posted.pdf
NWDH Cert of Pub-Text Amend Ag Definition.pd

Public Meeting

[Vote] Text Amendment to Section 5-2-1 Definitions of the Zoning Ordinance to Amend the Definition of Agriculture

A copy of their agenda can be viewed and downloaded here.

Related:News to us…,” “Village Board of Trustees meets tonight,” “’Agricultural Experience’ application meets a similar fate as ‘Agritourism’ did in August,”  Zoning Board of Appeals Public Hearing tonight,” “Village Board votes down ‘Agritourism as a Special Use’,” “August Board of Trustees meeting recording released,” “Sitting ducks,” “Special Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled Tuesday

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Darby Hills

BARRINGTON HILLS, IL – Darby Hills, 49, a dedicated advocate for children and families, has been selected as the new State Senator for Illinois’ 26th Senate District.

A trustee on the Barrington Hills Village Board and founder of Barrington Children’s Charity, Hills has spent years fighting for children in need, ensuring they have the support and resources to thrive.

“I am honored to serve as the next State Senator for the 26th District.

“This isn’t just about policy for me—it’s personal.

“I know firsthand the impact a little support can have on a child’s future, and I’m eager to bring that perspective to Springfield,” said Hills.

“Whether it’s fighting for families, keeping taxes low, or ensuring government remains accountable, I will work every day to make a real difference.

“This community has given me so much, and I’m committed to being a strong voice for it in Springfield.”

Through Barrington Children’s Charity, Hills has led an all-volunteer effort that provides meals to 525 children each week across Barrington-area school districts.

Her passion for helping those less fortunate stems from her own experience growing up in a low-income household with a single mother, receiving the same kind of hand-up she now works to give others.

As a trustee on the Barrington Hills Village Board, Hills has been a strong advocate for keeping taxes low, responsible budgeting, and accountable government.

She has worked to rein in wasteful spending, protect taxpayers, and ensure local government serves residents efficiently.

Her leadership reflects a commitment to good governance—principles she will continue to champion in Springfield.

She will also fight to create a pro-business environment that supports local job creators and strengthens Illinois’ economy.

A former Cook County prosecutor and an attorney by trade, Hills has built a career rooted in service.

In addition to her legal and charitable work, she is a wife and mother of three, bringing both professional expertise and personal experience to the issues affecting families.

“Darby’s dedication to children and families, along with her experience as a prosecutor and local leader, make her an invaluable addition to our team,” said Senate Republican Leader John Curran (R-Downers Grove).

“She brings a deeply personal perspective to the fight for Illinois’ most vulnerable children—one that will drive real change in Springfield.

“I look forward to working alongside her as she advocates for pro-growth policies to lift up Illinois families and businesses.”

From the Illinois Senate Republican Victory Fund

Editorial note: This is NO JOKE, but it’s understandable if some are laughing. You CANNOT make this (stuff) up!

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The Barrington Hills Park District Board/Riding Club of Barrington Hills will hold their monthly meeting this evening in person and via Zoom at 7:00 PM. Some topics on their agenda include:

  • Plum Farms proposal
  • Riding Center Advisory Committee Report
  • Administrator Report

A copy of their agenda can be viewed here. Instructions for accessing the meeting remotely can be found here.

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The Barrington Area Council of Governments (BACOG) is scheduled to have multiple meetings today beginning at 5:30 PM at the Village of Barrington Hills, 112 Algonquin Road. Those meetings include:

  • 5:30 – Connectivity
  • 6:30 – Legislative
  • 7:00 – Executive Board

As expected, no meeting agendas are posted by BACOG.  Further, BACOG has ceased posting minutes from their meetings, and they now appear to have removed all previously posted minutes from their website, which now states:

Copies of approved minutes for BACOG committee and executive board meetings are available upon request. Please submit requests by email to bacog@bacog.org.”

We’ve long questioned the need for BACOG. This is the latest example of why.

It appears BACOG now makes the Barrington Hills Park District/Riding Club and the Barrington Countrywide Fire Protection District seem transparent by comparison, and that’s truly disappointing.

Related: “Anybody heard from BACOG lately?,” “Fuhgeddaboudit,” “Barrington Area Council of Governments meets today

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