Placing priorities in proper order

I know these are tough times for a lot of people.

I know families are facing horrible economic hardships.

And I am fully aware that some people may be willing to take any kind of job they can find.

Some friends and acquaintances have suggested I focus on the positives instead of directing any energy on the downsides. I accepted their suggestions.

Experience has shown that, when we as a society are faced with troublesome times, we often turn to other outlets that give us some form of relief. For me that relief has always been outdoor activities.

One positive, re-enforcing element has been the appointment of a new director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Even though it's old news now, newly anointed Gov. Pat Quinn appears to be a solid friend of the outdoors community. He showed his mettle by appointing 39-year-old Marc Miller as DNR boss.

Illinois Safari Club Director Jack Darin is quoted as saying, "the governor's appointment of Miller to head the Illinois Department of Natural Resources is a very strong first step to rebuilding Illinois' ability to protect Illinois' wildlife, water and special places, and to offer high quality outdoor recreation experiences to Illinois residents and visitors. The IDNR has suffered greatly from budget cuts, layoffs, loss of talented career staff, political hiring and firing, and low staff morale."

Granted, DNR happenings do not rank up there with other more vital issues, like making sure Illinois residents have jobs so they can pay their mortgages while also putting food on the table.

But the new appointment and statements by the new governor take on the appearance that maybe there will be some light at the end of a very long tunnel.

The IDNR has been a political whipping entity ever since former director Brent Manning left the position to take on political windmills in other venues.

Now, we could see an ever-so-slowly climb upward by the DNR with a person now at the reigns who at least has some credible background.

What does all this mean for you?

Well, it was a touch of spring this week with the temperatures tickling 60. I admit to be a little down because of some family health problems and a sinking economy that has negative effects on my family.

So I went to the Fox River, and with rod in hand I plumbed the areas near the banks and caught a few crappies and an infant smallmouth bass. The area I fished was devoid of ice. There were others there as well, doing the same thing.

Christopher W. lost his job a month ago, so in between job searches he goes fishing.

"This is a great fishing spot all year long," he commented. "Outdoorsmen involved in the fishing and hunting scenes have never gotten a fair shake from Gov. Blagojevich, especially when he raided dedicated, DNR funds to help pay for the sins of poor management in this state.

"I'm fishing right now so I can take my mind off this mess I'm experiencing. I know when I get home the problems will still be there, but as long as I can clear my head for a while I know I'll be able to think and operate in a rationale manner."

Hang tough and keep your heads up my friends, and maybe head for the river for some outdoor therapy.