Rotary’s Coin Wars a “W” for Chtistmas Clearing House
Buzz
YEAR IN P/REVIEW:
A year of disappointments
Die Cast development, Route 47 improvements, Old Courthouse Center failed us
By Larry Lough NEWS@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
Like most years, 2024 ended with some unfinished business that will be carried over into the new year.
AWAY IN A MANGER
But the difference now is that leftover business includes two major projects that had specific 2024 timelines that seemed guaranteed to produce significant progress during the calendar year..
Both have been decades in development, but now have indefinite starting dates.
In February, the City Council approved a redevelopment
The Mission of Cor Jesu held its fourth annual Live Nativity and Bethlehem Market Dec. 13 and 14.
Final year of city’s enhanced streets improvement program
By Larry Lough
LARRY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
Woodstock enters 2025, the fifth year of the city’s five-year, $55 million enhanced streets improvement
The city launched the streets program in 2020 before taking a year $12 million
program, with a plan to spend $12 million to upgrade road surfaces, make some utility repairs, and install upsized water mains.
The City Council last week approved a proposal from Trotter and Associates Inc. of St. Charles for design engineering services and other work in anticipation of taking bids in April and awarding
construction contracts in May so the program can wrap up by fall. Trotter did similar work for the city in 2023 and 2024 and was awarded a no-bid contract for next year, according to a staff report by City Engineer Chris Tiedt.
, Page 3
INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI
Gerald Eisenmenger, 89
Gerald Eisenmenger 89, of Woodstock died Friday, Dec. 14, 2024, at his home in Woodstock.
He was born Aug. 14, 1935, in Crystal Lake to Arthur and Gertrude (Schroeder) Eisenmenger. He married Elaine Hunter on May 27, 1961.
He was an accomplished Lionel Train collector. His collection and display was featured in a model train magazine. He worked for Quaker Oats Co. for 30 years as a tool & die producer. For many years he was involved in Woodstock Little League as a coach and served on the board. He and his wife loved to bowl. He enjoyed being a Chicago White Sox fan. He was a great conversationalist about baseball and the stock market. He was loved and will be missed.
He is survived by his children, son, John Eisenmenger, and daughter, Linda Wheeler; grandchildren, Justyn and Jocelyn; and a brother, William (Beverly) Eisenmenger.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife, Elaine Eisenmenger.
Visitation was held on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Schneider, Leucht, Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, 1211 N. Seminary Ave., in Woodstock. The funeral service was on Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 401 St. John’s Road, Woodstock, at 11 a.m. Interment was in McHenry County Memorial Park cemetery in Woodstock.
In lieu of flowers, donations to St. John’s Lutheran Church, 401 St. John’s Road, Woodstock, IL 60098, would be appreciated.
For information, contact the Schneider, Leucht, Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home at 815-338-1710 or visit slmcfh. com.
Ronald ‘Mike’ Daniel O’Leary, 80
Ronald “Mike” Daniel O’Leary passed away on Dec. 14, 2024, at the age of 80. He was born Feb. 8, 1944, in Woodstock to Ronald and Mary (Levernier) O’Leary.
a Visitation was held at the Schneider, Leucht, Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, 1211 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock, from 3 to 7 p.m. on Thursday Dec. 19, 2024. The funeral Mass was held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 312 Lincoln Ave., Woodstock, IL, at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 20, 2024, followed by the procession to St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Harvard, Ill., for interment. All are welcome to join us in prayer. He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered.
University graduating with a degree in finance. He started his career in banking as a national bank examiner, which led him to Batavia, Il., to become president of the First National Bank of Batavia. After changes in the bank ownership in Batavia, he moved to Woodstock to be a senior vice president at the State Bank of Woodstock and finished his career with Suburban BankCorp, Harris Bank, and subsequently BMO, retiring in 2004.
Mike was a Woodstock native. He attended St. Mary Catholic School and Marian Central Catholic High School; he went on to college to study history until enlisting in the Marine Corps, where he served in Vietnam. He and Rhonda raised their children in Marengo. A devout Catholic and an avid reader, Mike’s greatest joy was spending time with family and friends.
Mike leaves his loving wife of 56 years, Rhonda Marie (Gibbs), and eight children, Molly (Paul) Nordan, Amy Serafin, Michael (Andrea), Brigid (Keith) Ehrke, Conor (Olivia), Hannah (Frankie), Katherine (Michael) Delemont, and Thomas (Victoria). His legacy lives on with them and his grandchildren, Isaac, Elijah, Joshua, Kasia, Alyson, Thomas, Dominic (Nelecia), Mariah, Annileise (Aodhan), Bride (Matthew), Keira, Eliana, William, Sylvia, Levi, Davan, Blake, Braxton, Vivienne, Luke, Marcus, Joseph, Colette, Gwendolyn, and Arwen, and two great-grandchildren: Domecia and James. He is also survived by siblings Nancy O’Leary, Robert O’Leary, and Patricia Menge.
To commemorate his remarkable life and the memories we cherish,
PUBLIC SAFETY LOG
Woodstock Fire/Rescue District
For information, contact the Schneider, Leucht, Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock, at 815-338-1710 or visit slmcfh.com.
Robert ‘Bob’ James Madjak, 84
Robert “Bob” James Madjak, 84, of Woodstock passed away peacefully on Dec. 13, 2024, in Barrington, Ill. He was born March 31, 1940, in Joliet, Ill., to Frank and Mae (Gronholm) Madjak.
On Oct. 10, 1964, Bob married the love of his life, Mary Frances Applegate. Bob and Mary Frances have three children, Jennifer (Robert Jr.) Seegers of Woodstock, Charles (Barb) Madjak of Crystal Lake, and Kerri (Paul) Hagy of Hinsdale. They have four grandsons, Brett and Cade Seegers, and Grant and Charles Hagy, a nephew, Rob (Susan Schmidt) Madjak, and a niece, Lisa Hogan. Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Jon Madjak.
Bob attended Farragut Elementary School, St. Raymond’s Catholic School, Joliet Township High School, Joliet Junior College, and Northern Illinois
Fire Runs indicates units dispatched and what was found at the scene. Ambulance calls of Woodstock Fire/Rescue District are reported here in number only.
EMS calls for Dec. 12 to 18: 80
Fire runs
Combustible/fire spills & leaks: 2
Biological hazard: 1
While in Woodstock, Bob was a member of many service organizations, serving as a board member for most of them. He was past president of the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club Board member, treasurer of the Woodstock Police Commission and treasurer of the Friends of the Woodstock Opera House.
Bob enjoyed traveling, spending winters in Florida, playing golf, and spending time with family and friends. Bob and Mary Fran would celebrate New Year’s Eve every year with their “old” friends from Batavia, which became a tradition for over 30 years. He had a love of numerous sports, however, none greater than the Green Bay Packers as his father had lived across from Lambeau Field. His other interests included basketball, baseball, tennis, skiing with the “BARF” friends, fishing in Canada with his son Chip, and of course, golf. While playing golf he had countless good times and memories at Woodstock Country Club with his son-in-law, Bobby, his grandsons, Brett and Cade, and his many golf friends from both Batavia and Woodstock.
A celebration of life is planned for spring 2025. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name can be made to The Friends of the Woodstock Opera House and The Woodstock Christmas Clearing House.
For information, contact the Schneider, Leucht, Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home at 815-338-1710 or visitslmcfh. com.
Person in distress: 1
Smoke, odor problem: 1
Public service assistance: 8
Cover assignment, standby fire station, move-up: 4
Steam, other gas mistaken for smoke: 2
Malicious, mischievous false alarm: 1
System or detector malfunction: 3
Unintentional system/detector operation (no fire): 5
Total: 108
Gerald Eisenmenger
Ronald ‘Mike’ Daniel O’Leary
Robert ‘Bob’ James Madjak
STREETS
off during the COVID pandemic. In his State of the City address in 2019, then-Mayor Brian Sager said upgrading street conditions was the city’s No. 1 priority after street repairs had been neglected for years as city leaders tried to keep property taxes from rising.
The council in late 2017 approved a local 1% sales tax and earmarked some of the revenue for streets. A 3-cents-a-gallon city fuel tax was enacted in 2020 when the enhanced streets program was launched.
Mayor Mike Turner has said street conditions are the primary complaint he hears from residents.
In other action at the Dec. 17 meeting, the council:
n Entered a five-year lease with Naturally McHenry County, the county’s tourism and visitors’ bureau, to fill some first-floor space in the Old Courthouse Center that was vacated in May by D.I.Y. crafts store Makity Make. That will put Naturally McHenry County across the hall from the Woodstock Area
OBITUARIES
Julius ‘Tom’ Velmont, 76
Julius “Tom” Velmont, 76, Harvard, died Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024, at Mercy Hospital in Harvard.
Tom was born Dec. 18, 1948, in Woodstock to Julius and Dora Velmont.
Julius ‘Tom’ Velmont
Tom was known to many as a hardworking, generous man. He was an owner of T&E Cleaning Service as well as Tom’s Small Engine Repair in Hebron. Tom loved spending time with his family and friends and enjoyed helping people in need. Tom loved to bring a smile to your face and enjoy a laugh together. He also enjoyed gardening, woodworking, and he built many homes. Tom will be greatly missed by his loving family and many friends.
He is survived by eight children, Jeffery Velmont, Michael (Michelle) Velmont, David (Sarah) Velmont, Cindy
Chamber of Commerce & Industry, which operates the city’s visitors’ information center.
n Approved a settlement agreement with MobCraft Beer, which last month shut down its taproom and brewery in the adjacent Sheriff’s House & Jail after failing to find a buyer. When they closed, both Makity Make and MobCraft had been tenants of the city-owned complex for less than a year after signing five-year leases. MobCraft has indicated it cannot repay $68,599 it borrowed from the city’s revolving loan fund. It is leaving behind all equipment and fixtures for the city.
Mayor Turner called MobCraft “a great little business” that was the victim of corporate financial problems. “It’s unfortunate,” the mayor said of the closing.
But Councilman Bob Seegers Jr. said it should cause the city to “revisit” its loan program. Assessing financial risk “is not our area of expertise,” he said. “There’s not a chance of us making up that money. ... I’d like to know our exposure going forward [with outstanding loans].”
n Adopted a resolution to commit $46,250 as a 25 percent match
toward an application for a $138,759 Community Development Block Grant from the county to build an 8-foot-wide, 1,800-foot-long path for walkers and bikers along the north berm of Raintree Park. The path will connect to new sidewalks on Washburn and South streets leading to what promises to be a safer crossing for non-motorized traffic on Route 47 at Country Club Road when the state widens and improves the highway through the city, with that work expected to start in 2025.
n Authorized spending $424,250 with Nurture of Chicago to provide Phase 1 architectural and engineering for renovation of the city’s Recreation Center. The city has obtained a $2.8 million state grant as part of the more than $7 million earmarked for expenses related to the project. Nurture expects to begin 12 months of “construction administration” starting in July 2025. Although council members complained about strings attached to the grant, they voted 6-0 to approve the expense.
n Confirmed the mayor’s appointments of Louisett (Lou) Ness to the city’s Historic Preservation Commission and Tyler Gomoll to the Arts Commission.
PUBLIC SAFETY LOG
Woodstock Police Department
n Joseph E. Bonk, 68, Carol Stream, was arrested Nov. 27 at Lake Ave. and U.S. Route 14 on charges of driving while license suspended and suspended registration. Released with notice to appear in court. Court date Dec. 19.
n Noe Leyva-Hernandez, 40, Woodstock, was arrested Nov. 27 in the 400 block of East Jackson Street on two counts of domestic battery. Transported to McHenry County Jail. Court date Jan. 7.
n Lynda M. Goldman, 44, Woodstock, was arrested Nov. 28 at Dean and Van Buren streets on charges of driving under the influence, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and disregarding a stop sign. Released with notice to appear in court Court date Dec. 19.
(Rich) Torkelson, Roxy (Les) Rosing, Susie {Lee) Rosing, and Jeanie {Tony) Marotta; 17 grandchildren; 12 greatgrandchildren, and 126 foster children.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Julius and Dora; his wife, Esther; sister, Nancy; and son, Carmen.
A visitation will be held at the Schneider, Leucht, Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, 1211 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock, on Friday, Dec. 27, 2024, from 10 a.m. until the noon funeral service. Tom will be laid to rest at the Linn-Hebron Cemetery in Hebron, Ill..
For information, contact the funeral home at 815-338-1710 or visit slmcfh. com.
Monday
n John Franken, 42, Woodstock, was arrested Nov. 29 in the 1200 block of Lake Avenue on charges of possession of a controlled substance and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. Released with notice to appear in court Court date Jan. 22.
YEAR IN REVIEW
Continued from Page 1
agreement with WellQuest/Chicago Hubs Realty for development of the former Die Cast factory site in Woodstock that included two phases of construction – and possibly three.
Under the agreement, CHR was supposed to break ground by September on a five-story, 70-unit, affordable housing building for people 55 and older. That was to be the first phase of development CHR first proposed in the fall of 2022
Phase 2 would be a four-story, 150unit building for assisted living and memory care to get underway by September 2026.
City officials in February described as “optional” a third phase of the plan, which would depend on the city and the developer agreeing on the scope of the project. At one time that final phase proposed marketrate apartments above 25,000 square feet of retail/restaurant space, plus a four- or five-story parking garage.
“This is an incredibly valuable addition to the city of Woodstock,” Mayor Mike Turner said when the City Council approved the agreement. “I hope this gets us on the path to a final plat.”
But no ground was broken in September. And in November, the council rescinded the agreement after CHR could not obtain financing for the first phase.
Construction of the first building was estimated to be a $23 million project, which would have received a $1.5 million reimbursement incentive from the city’s tax increment financing district. Building No. 2 was estimated at $55 million, with a $4 million TIF incentive. But those incentives were to be paid only if the buildings were completed.
In addition, the city-owned 10 acres of the Die Cast site would be donated to CHR for the project.
Now, the city is starting over. A request for new development proposals had been scheduled to be considered by the council Dec. 3, but that was pulled from the agenda before the meeting.
The council could consider the development Jan. 21, when a review of the city’s 2019 Downtown Development Plan is scheduled. That plan listed the Die Cast property as the No. 1 Development Site in the
INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY
ANDREW ROUSEY
In mid-December, crews from Clear Cut Tree Service began removing trees along Route 47 as a first step in the extensive reconstruction of two miles of the state highway through Woodstock.
The signs that two miles of Route 47 through Woodstock would be widened and improved were few during most of 2024. But early in December, TWI photographer Andrew Rousey captured a photo of the 3 Brothers Restaurant sign that had been moved from Lake Avenue to the south side of the building to make way for a roundabout at Lake.
downtown, targeting it for high-density, transit-oriented housing.
Bumpy road ahead?
A year ago, The Independent’s “Year in P/review” prepared readers for what seemed like the certain start in 2024 of work to widen and improve about 2 miles of Route 47 through Woodstock.
The Illinois Department of Transportation had been due to accept bids in January on the $58 million project between U.S. 14 and Route 120. But the bidding process, city officials said early in 2024, had been delayed until April, and later until summer, and then by the end of the year. We’re still waiting.
What 2024 did see was demolition of the former Mambo Car Wash and Dwight Auto Body shop to make room for construction of a traffic
of the highway; and a sidewalk along the west side.
And local motorists will face perhaps two construction seasons of major inconvenience.
2024 was to be the year that decades-long planning for a widened and improved state highway finally moved into Phase 3 – actual construction. The IDOT website indicates now the project is still in Phase 2 –final design and land acquisition.
Preliminary engineering and an environmental study were approved in April 2019. Since then, the state has focused on detailed design and land acquisition for the project.
The first phase of construction will cover 2 miles between U.S. 14 and Route 120. An additional 3 miles will be rebuilt north to Charles Road, but that phase might be a decade or more away. Funding for preliminary work on that section is not included in the state’s 2024-29 proposed highway improvement program.
The city did in 2024 win a state grant to offset some costs of enhanced lighting and landscaping.
“It is possible detours will be necessary during roundabout construction,” the state website says. “One lane in each direction and temporary access to all commercial and residential land uses will be maintained during construction.”
Enhancements will include extensive landscaping in the median and improved lighting along the route.
Maybe 2025 is the year the bulldozers move in.
roundabout at McConnell Road. And just a week ago, crews began cutting down trees as a preparatory first step for the project. A triangular warehouse building at Judd Street and Route 47 also will be demolished for a roundabout there. A third roundabout will be built at the Lake Avenue intersection with the state highway.
The City Council also recently approved variances to zoning setbacks for signage at Three Brothers Restaurant on Lake Avenue and Walgreen’s at Country Club Road, whose roadside signs will be out of zoning compliance when the state takes some of their property for the road work.
The state envisions four lanes of Route 47 with a raised median through Woodstock; three roundabout intersections; a 10-foot-wide shared-use path along the east side
Business interruption
Not just traffic will experience disruption during construction. Nine businesses and three residences are being acquired by the state as part of the project.
An additional half-dozen properties will experience direct business disruption because IDOT will take parts of those sites. That includes 3 Brothers Restaurant at Lake Avenue, which expects to rebuild its entrance and lobby on the south side of the building to make way for the roundabout there.
Those are among 294 parcels identified as being affected, the state reports, with a budget of $9.6 million for property acquisition.
Keeping all informed
City officials have prepared a
Continued on NEXT page
preliminary project action plan, which was shared with the City Council a year ago. Several city departments will be involved in the plan.
Economic Development, Marketing, and Building and Zoning will keep affected businesses, as well as the public, up to date on progress on the project.
And that’s not all of the local road work expected in Woodstock in 2025, which will be the final year of the city’s $55 million, five-year enhanced streets improvement program, which began in 2020 before taking a year off during the COVID pandemic. The work is being financed largely by the sale of revenue bonds after early work was funded by a new 3-cents-agallon city fuel tax.
Bids are expected to be received in April, and contracts awarded in May, on about $12 million in street upgrades and related water main and sewer work.
Year of disappointments
Among those things that didn’t go as planned in Woodstock in 2024
was the failure of the city-owned Old Courthouse Center complex, which opened in mid-2023, to become a hub of downtown business activity. After an investment of nearly $23 million to restore and renovate the 1857 Old Courthouse and 1887 Sheriff’s House & Jail, city officials had high hopes for the commercial/retail complex, which had trouble in 2024 holding on to its tenants. Their rent payments were supposed to pay off a $9 million, 20-year revenue bond the city sold to finance much of the project.
After only seven months into a new five-year lease, owners of Public House closed their restaurant on the ground floor of the Old Courthouse in March. In May, D.I.Y. crafts business Makity Make closed its doors on the first floor of the building. By the end of November, MobCraft Beer ended operation of its microbrewery and taproom in the former Sheriff’s House after failing to find a buyer. By the end of the year, Public House had been replaced, when the Squire on the Square opened in November. Naturally McHenry County, the county’s tourism and visitors bureau, planned to move into
the Makity Make space.
On the positive side
Extensive renovation of the cityowned Opera House was accomplished, although work was mostly delayed until fall. A state grant of nearly $3 million, plus $1.6 million from city government, allowed the work to be done years ahead of schedule under the city’s 10-year capital improvements program. Programming resumed in mid-October, and the 1889 facility was busy with events through the holidays.
Housing boom
For drama and emotion in 2024, it would be hard to beat two fourhour public hearings on a proposal by Lennar Homes, the nation’s second-largest homebuilder, to put up 244 single-family houses and 38 duplexes (76 units) on 135 acres at Doty and Lucas roads, south of Northwestern Medicine Hospital. In the lengthy hearings, first before the Plan Commission and later the City Council, neighbors of the proposed subdivision objected to traffic, potential environmental impact, and increased housing density on what is
now largely farmland.
Although the Plan Commission voted 4-2 to make an unfavorable recommendation, council members voted 7-0 to approve the project.
New year, old agenda
So, 2025 has a start on its agenda just by picking up leftovers from 2024.
The new year also will see a local election.
Woodstock Mayor Mike Turner is assured a second four-year term after no candidate filed to challenge him. Voters also will elect three City Council members, with incumbents Tom Nierman and Bob Seegers Jr. each seeking a second four-year term. Retired educator Gordie Tebo is not seeking re-election, but four other candidates did file.
For the four seats up for election on the District 200 Board of Education, only the four incumbents filed for the April 1 ballot: Bruce Farris, Carl Gilmore, Jacob Homuth, and John Parisi, so they’re assured new four-year terms.
All the City Council and school board positions are elected at-large on a nonpartisan ballot.
Woodstock, IL • 1987
Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus
Dear Editor, I am 8 years old.
Some of my little friends say that there is no Santa Claus.
Papa says “If you see it in the Sun, it is so.”
Please tell me the truth, is there a Santa Claus?
Virginia O’Hanlon 115 W. 95th St.
Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except what they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, are little. In this great universe of ours, man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.
Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists
as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to our life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! How dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished. Not believe in Santa Claus? You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your Papa to hire men to watch all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but
Santa spends time in his hut on the Square in Woodstock. We’re so lucky that the big guy spends many days here visiting children and families.
that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders that are unseen and unseeable in the world.
You tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, or even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernatural beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else as real and abiding. No Santa Claus? Thank God he lives and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, maybe 10 times 10,000 years from now, he will continue to make glad the hearts of children.
Written by Francis P.
Church, New York Sun, 1897
INDEPENDENT
PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI
Is Christmas Clearing House worth the effort?
By Susan W. Murray
When it’s time for the Rotary Club of Woodstock’s annual Christmas Clearing House, The Woodstock Independent sends out a photographer to take pictures of some portion of the sorting, packing, and loading up for delivery.
This year, TWI’s Andy Rousey went to all three events - packing of toys on Dec. 10 at the warehouse next to Walmart, packing of food two days later at American AdBag on Lamb Road, and the loading of boxes and bags into volunteers’ cars for delivery on Dec. 14. When he came back from taking pictures of volunteers packing food to deliver to over 1,200 local families, he also brought back a story.
A woman in a crown
Among the people putting cans of soup and green beans, boxes of spaghetti, and jars of peanut butter into boxes was a woman wearing a crown. The sash she wore identified her as “Miss Northern Suburbs.”
In a note with his photos, Andy explained that the princess, Annie Kamps, was a Woodstock High School graduate and had been a beneficiary of the Christmas Clearing House program when she was in grade and high school.
We reached out to Annie to ask if we could tell her story, and she quickly agreed.
Time of adversity
Born in Arlington Heights, Annie grew up on a little farm on Rose Farm Road with her parents and her older sister, Emma.
“Both of our parents were addicts,” Annie said, and the family suffered the consequences of their addiction - poverty, mental illness, and food insecurity.
Annie and Emma received free and reduced lunches at school, and when Annie wanted to play school sports, a donor was found to pay the fees.
Annie remembers that the family began receiving food and toys from Christmas Clearing House when she was in the fourth or fifth grade. When Annie was 14 or 15 years old, she went with her WHS basketball team to pack bags for
Miss Northern Suburbs, WHS graduate Annie Camps, participates in Christmas Clearing House food packing. As a former beneficiary of CCH, she actively gives back to the program.
Christmas Clearing House. As the girls were making their way around the warehouse with a crowd of other volunteers, one of Annie’s teammates held up a bag and shouted across the echoing space, “Annie, Annie, I found your bag!”
Quickly realizing that she had identified Annie as one of CCH beneficiaries in front of everyone, Annie’s teammate tried to shrink back into line. At that point, Annie had a choice to make - not about how to respond to her teammate who Annie knew was deeply embarrassed, but how to respond to the situation she was living in.
“We were all volunteering,” Annie said. “I decided that there was no shame in being a recipient.”
Annie remembers that her bag that year contained gloves, handwarmers, a scarf, and a hat. Recipients could fill out an interest card so that they could receive something they really wanted, and Annie found a little sports gift bag among the more practical items. Before Christmas that year, someone anonymously dropped off a $100 gift card for Annie at her house. She’s always suspected that it was one of her basketball coaches.
‘Very proud of where our family has come to’
This is a story with a happy ending.
Both of Annie’s parents have recovered. Her mom has been
sober for nine years and frequently speaks to AA groups. Her dad is “happy and healthy,” Annie said. He volunteers with youth programs and Little League to give back to the community that helped him when times were rough. Emma is a veterinarian at the Animal Hospital of Woodstock.
“I’m very proud of where our family has come to,” Annie said.
Annie won the Miss Woodstock crown in 2016. Since then, she has remained active in the pageant system, vying for the title of Miss Illinois.
Part of her devotion to pageants has been the scholarship money that allowed her to graduate debtfree with a master’s degree in communications from Illinois State University. She is an adjunct professor and aquatics director at Harper College and looks to earn her Ph.D. in communication education.
Cherished community service
Participants in the Miss America system of pageants must create and work on a Community Service Initiative, and that is where Annie’s heart lies.
She champions “Surviving Adversity through Civic Engagement” and estimates that in the past 8 years, she has put in over 10,000 volunteer hours. Now living in Huntley, she makes it a point to volunteer for the Woodstock organizations that helped her and her family: Christmas Clearing House, the Woodstock Recreation Department, the Woodstock Rotary Club, the Woodstock Food Pantry, and the Miss Woodstock Pageant.
Through their help, she said, “I was able to have a normal life outside the addiction of our house.”
The June 2025 pageant will be the last time that Annie can compete for the title of Miss Illinois, as she will age out. She is determined to win this year.
“I want to show everyone across the state the profound impact of giving and civic engagement and how volunteering just once a year can benefit the youth across Illinois,” she said.
Susan W. Murray is a freelance writer and regular contributor to The Woodstock Independent.
Woodstock
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Corrections
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Staff
PUBLISHER EMERITA Cheryl Wormley c wormley@thewoodstockindependent com
PUBLISHER Rebecca McDaniel rebecca@thewoodstockindependent com
EDITOR Larry Lough larry@thewoodstockindependent com
ADVERTISING Jill Flores jill@thewoodstockindependent com
Middle school students engage in friendly competition to be generous
By Janet Dovidio NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
Creekside and Northwood Middle Schools competed in the annual Rotary Club of Woodstock’s Coin Wars from Nov. 18-26 for the benefit of the club’s Christmas Clearing House deliveries.
Rotary member Joe McDonough served as chairperson of the project. Rotary challenges the District 200 middle schools to seek monetary donations to fund Christmas toys for the children in the families who receive Christmas Clearing House deliveries.
The rules of the competition specify that all donations are accepted, but there is a catch. The values of the coins are added up, but any paper donation totals are deducted from the coin total in a classroom container. The school with the highest coin total wins, so the strategy is to sabotage the collections of a rival classroom by placing paper money in the container.
The actual total of all donations is used to purchase Christmas gifts. Rotary club members collect and count the coins and paper money, then return the cash to the winning school for its students to carry out the shopping.
The two middle schools raised just under $4,500.00. Northwood Middle
At right: Joe McDonough, president-elect, Rotary Club of Woodstock; Tyler Carlson, assistant principal, Northwood Middle School; Ryan Doyle, principal, Creekside Middle School; Kristopher Nickolas, assistant principal, Creekside Middle School; Bethany Hall, principal, Northwood Middle School; and Laura Cullotta, outgoing president, Rotary Club of Woodstock. Carlson holds the trophy awarded to Northwood Middle School for edging out Creekside for the total collected in coins for the Coin Wars challenge to benefit toy purchases for the Christmas Clearing House.
School netted the higher amount in coins, making Northwood the 2024 winner.
Keep the competition interesting
At Creekside, Principal Ryan Doyle reported that the school used
At left: A successful day of shopping for (from left) Alexis Wells, J.D. Ketchum, Carter Secrist, Keegan Kruse, Riley Poremba, and Skylar McMillen stand with their full carts just before checking out.
COURTESY PHOTOS
See COINS Page 10
COINS
several special contests to encourage donations. Students could receive a “secret gold coin” by identifying a teacher from clues. The classroom with the most net number of coins was named the Biggest Winner, while the class with the most negative money (paper) was the Biggest Loser. Teacher Kerry Butenschoen coordinated the Creekside effort.
Northwood Assistant Principal Tyler Carlson shared that the teachers added to the classroom collections by soliciting coins for their classrooms from parents waiting in the parking lot while picking up their students. Jorie Karafa’s class won the competition for having the most coins, while Kelly Helless’ class was the loser with the most paper money in its container.
Shopping for ‘a great cause’
As the winning school, Northwood appointed two students from the highest-collecting class at each grade level to carry out the
toy shopping. The shoppers were eighth-graders Kegan Kruse and Carter Secrist; seventh-graders
JD Ketchum and Riley Poremba;
reported that the students discussed strategies for purchasing toys during the bus ride to Walmart and decided to spread the amounts wisely and not choose expensive items. They also divided up for the boys and the girls to choose items preferred by their own genders.
“What impressed me was that the students also turned to purchasing family games,” Carlson added. “I was proud of them for thinking of the whole family.”
Creekside’s Doyle and Assistant Principal Kris Nickolas said that “Creekside staff and students couldn’t be more proud to raise money for a great cause, bringing joy to many families of Woodstock.”
Northwood’s Carlson and Principal Bethany Hall added that they are “so proud of the big hearts of our students and their willingness to help people in our community.”
All four administrators agreed that “the Coin Wars competi-
and sixth-graders Skyler McMillen and Alexis Wells. Each student was given $700 to choose items at the Woodstock Walmart. Carlson
COLLEGE CURRENTS
Amber Coggin named to WIU fall 2024 dean’s list
Amber Coggin, a senior from Woodstock, was among those named to the fall 2024 fall dean’s list at Western
tion is an example of the amazing partnership District 200 has with the Rotary Club and with the community.”
Illinois University. To receive this award, an undergraduate student must earn at least a 3.6 GPA on a scale of 4.0, which equals an A, with a minimum of 12 credit hours of graded courses.
COURTESY PHOTOS
Calculator at the ready, Keegan Kruse consults with Carter Secrist before choosing a board game from the shelf at Walmart.
Riley Poremba explains her shopping strategy to Northwood Middle School assistant principal Tyler Carlson.
A & E On a mission through music
Marian grad
By Tricia Carzoli NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
Marian Central Catholic High School ’07 graduate Ryan Knott and his wife Sarah are on a mission to bring a positive message of truth and love through music and social media.
The duo makes up Acoustic Truth – a Christian band with a unique sound thanks to Sarah’s voice. It has been over a decade since their first album, “Time,” was released, but Acoustic Truth is shining brighter than ever.
Ryan turned to music after a career-ending baseball injury. He met his now-wife Sarah and, hearing something special in her voice, he encouraged her to pursue music. With a guitar and Sarah’s soulful folk voice, the two embarked on a musical career that has led them on adventures and helped them grow together as musicians, a couple, and as a family.
After a health scare, a more powerful sound
Over the past year, their family grew from four to five, while Ryan dealt with a challenging health diagnosis.
That was the impetus for writing and producing new music after a short hiatus.
“I think going through a health scare makes you think,” he said. “I spent some time wrestling with hard emotions, but I’m in a good place right now.”
Scary medical terms and a growing family inspired “more powerful lyrics,” he said.
The tone of their music has gone from light and airy with upbeat messages to tackling difficult topics with passion.
Their videos have moved to a more cinematographic look to pair with the increasingly more serious content.
Last year, the couple released an album titled “Songs From My Father,” comprised entirely of songs written by Sarah’s father and recorded with a signature Acoustic Truth sound.
“It was nice to do something that incorporated my father-in-law,” Ryan said. “Sarah and I really enjoyed that, and we are looking forward to our new songs that we hope to release in an album
and his wife make up the duo Acoustic Truth
stage for four nights of the 10-day cruise that will take couples to Florida, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico.
Other performers will be Three-Time KLOVE Vocalist of the Year Danny Gokey and singersongwriter Laura Story, Cochren & Co., Chris August, and The Sound.
“We are really excited about it,” Ryan said. “Last year we weren’t able to do it because we were having a baby, so we are really excited to have been asked again. It is such an amazing opportunity to share the message of our ministry.”
That ministry has expanded to a strong social media presence on TikTok.
“I started doing some Bible teachings on TikTok,” Ryan said. “And that really took off… I think people are really looking for hope right now. And Tik Tok has opened up a new audience for us.”
Ryan offers music and Bible study on TikTok, while Sarah has shared Bible verse memory songs that she hopes to continue now that their baby is older. Facebook also provides an outlet focused on promoting their music ministry.
Remaining independent
Acoustic Truth has two number-one albums that remained on iTunes and Billboard No.1 Lists for several weeks, but they still record independently.
very soon.”
A new music video of their single “You Can’t Tear Us Apart” can be found on YouTube.
“It really highlights what has been on our hearts this year,” Ryan said, “and demonstrates the direction that our music and videos are going. I think people are looking for truth, and this new direction highlights our raw emotion and a real hunger for that truth.”
Connecting with audiences
This year, amid a couple of new releases, Acoustic Truth will be featured entertainers on the February Love Like You Mean It Marriage Cruise by Family Life.
They will be featured performers on the main
“Though we’ve had several offers from companies to sign with record labels,” Ryan said, “we do not want to give up the freedom of our artistic creativity. It is really important to us that we listen wholly to God and do what he is asking of us. When you sign, you end up giving up some of those freedoms.”
For now, Ryan and Sarah will continue to write, record, and produce new music as well as social media content.
Acoustic Truth’s albums can be found on all music streaming platforms. A new single – “Walk on Water” – will be released in late January along with a new video.
“We are excited for what the future holds,” Ryan said. “And we just want to continue to go where God leads us.”
INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI
Husband and wife musicians Sarah and Ryan Knott together are the Christian band Acoustic Truth.
Tonic and his brother Gin arrived at Helping Paws on October 30. Originally a stray, he is very well socialized. He is a happy, spunky, very loving kitty. He is also outgoing, curious, and can’t get enough attention. He has bilateral luxating patellas, which means both of his back kneecaps slip in and out of place, but he gets around just fine. It makes
The McHenry County Historical Society’s Museum, located at 6422 Main St. in Union, will re-open January 7 with expanded hours. The museum will be open Tuesday-Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Visit mchenrycountyhistory.org and plan your visit today.
Business Biz Buzz
Tell us, dear Santa, what’s in your bag for local businesses
By Susan W. Murray NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
Peeking into Santa’s sack, we find a mixed bag at the end of 2024 for some local businesses – a search for a new location, a closing, a delayed move, and a merger that fell apart.
With the knowledge that upcoming construction on Route 47 would have made getting to Vintage 365 Market & Boutique at 1193 S. Eastwood Drive very difficult for customers, owner Carrie Nordbrock elected not to renew her lease.
The shop’s last day in its location for the past five years was Dec. 14, after an extended moving sale.
“This is not goodbye,” Nordbrock told her customers in a Facebook post, “it’s ‘See you all soon!’” Nordbrock is searching for a more visible location with room for the retail shop and the space to rehab and paint some of the vintage items her store sells.
In the meantime, she has partnered with Ridgeview Design Co. in Hebron at the intersection of Illinois Routes 47 and 173 to carry some of her vintage, boutique, home décor, and seasonal items.
In January, Nordbrock will begin
INDEPENDENT
BY ANDREW
ROUSEY
The Advance Auto Parts store at 520 S. Eastwood Drive is one of 700 closing nationwide. The store will remain open until the end of January.
hosting Facebook Live shopping opportunities at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays. And customers can arrange to make purchases at any time from Vintage 365’s website, 365vintagemarketboutique.com .
“We’ll still be creating!” Nordbrock promised.
In mid-November, Advance Auto Parts announced that it would be closing 700 of its stores nationwide because of rising expenses and low demand for auto parts. One that is closing is the Woodstock location at 520 S. Eastwood Drive.
The store’s shuttering will affect six employees, with 65,000 being laid off nationwide.
The Chase Bank location on the Woodstock Square will close after the newly renovated bank building at 320 S. Eastwood Drive opens, projected now to be Feb. 3. The downtown building will then be sold.
Until the store closes at the end of January, merchandise is priced up to 80% off.
Because of construction delays, Chase Bank’s new location at 320 S. Eastwood Drive will not open until Feb. 3, said Vince Belfiore, Woodstock’s branch manager. The opening date had been pegged for Dec. 16.
Once the new location opens, the building that Chase has occupied at 118 Cass St. – and its ATM – will close, and the building will be sold, Belfiore said.
At the end of February, The Woodstock Independent asked the question, “Will Woodstock residents get to go ‘Krogering?’”
Happy Holidays
The answer on Dec. 10 was a resounding, “No,” as a federal judge and a state judge in Washington State said that the proposed merger between the Cincinnati-based Kroger Co. and Albertsons, parent of Jewel-Osco, would eliminate competition and raise prices.
Albertsons later filed a lawsuit against Kroger, saying, in so many words, that Kroger didn’t try hard enough to make the merger work. Kroger called that charge “baseless.”
So, for what appears to be the foreseeable future, the local Jewel will remain a Jewel, owned by Albertsons.
PHOTOS
Transactions filed in the McHenry County Recorder’s Office Nov. 26 .
■ Residence at 615 Quinlan Lane, Woodstock, was sold by Kristi J. Oakes, Woodstock, to Joel Elias Vazquez, Stone Park, for $290,000.
■ Residence at 1133 N. Madison St., Woodstock, was sold by Serafin Cruz, Woodstock, to Angel De Jesus Landa Calderon, Crystal Lake, for $285,000.
■ Residence at 214-216 S. Throop St., Woodstock, was sold by Throop Street LLC, Woodstock, to JLOBrienProperties222STryon LLC, Woodstock, for $440,000.
Naturally McHenry County moving Visitor Center to Square
Naturally McHenry County, in partnership with the city of Woodstock, announced the move of its visitor center to the Old Courthouse Center on the Woodstock Square, where it will open in April 2025.
This effort highlights the shared commitment to promoting Woodstock as a “vibrant and welcoming destination while enhancing McHenry County’s appeal to visitors,” according to a news release.
The release reported the move comes as McHenry County attracts significant visitation. In 2023, more than 760,000 visitors came to McHenry County, with more than 86,000 visitors specifically drawn to the city of Woodstock, according to data provided by Arrivalist.
Rent on the 985 square feet will be waived for three months, then will be $1,050 a month, which includes a common area maintenance fee. The five-year lease includes annual rent increases and an optional five-year renewal.
The new visitor center will provide visitors with “resources and inspiration to explore the county’s many attractions,”
the release said. Naturally McHenry County and the city of Woodstock will work together to enhance the cityowned Old Courthouse Center complex, which in recent years was restored and renovated at a cost of nearly $23 million.
“This relocation represents a fresh and exciting chapter for Naturally McHenry County,” Jaki Berggren, president and CEO of Naturally McHenry County, said in the release. “The Old Courthouse Center is a cornerstone of McHenry County’s history and culture, and we’re honored to collaborate with the city of Woodstock to bring our visitor center to this iconic location. Together, we’ll create a space that celebrates the unique stories of our communities and inspires visitors to explore all McHenry County has to offer.”
Elizabeth S. Kessler, chairwoman of the Naturally McHenry County Board of Directors, said the new location “places us at the epicenter of the vibrant activity that attracts visitors from across the region to explore and experience the treasures of our county.”
The city of Woodstock also sees this move as a unique opportunity to amplify the charm and history of Woodstock
Square.
“We are thrilled to welcome Naturally McHenry County to the heart of our city,” Danielle Gulli, the city’s executive director of business development, said in the release. “Their presence in the Old Courthouse Center will further solidify Woodstock Square as a hub of culture, history, and tourism, and we are excited to collaborate on this project.”
Naturally McHenry County’s current visitor center in Huntley will be repurposed into incubator shops for the village in late 2025. This initiative aligns with the shared goal of fostering economic growth and providing opportunities for local entrepreneurs, the release said.
The move to Woodstock Square underscores what Gulli called a “strategic partnership” between Naturally McHenry County and the city of Woodstock to create meaningful connections with visitors and celebrate the county’s unique offerings through “a true gateway to all that McHenry County has to offer.”
For more information about the move and the partnership, visit naturallymchenrycounty.com/blog/post/ visitor-center-relocation-to-woodstock/
Community Marian alum shares NASA experience with students
By Janet Dovidio NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
Marian Central Catholic High School welcomed alumnus Chris Dobbins ’09, who visited the advanced math and engineering classes on Nov. 25 to talk about his time at Marian and to describe his career at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
“Chris was my former student,” said mathematics and engineering teacher Steve Liggett ’87. “He emailed me to ask about talking to my students about what he does and how Marian helped him as a student in college and at NASA.”
Dobbins said that he was very impressed by some of the new STEM opportunities available to students, including the introduction of basic engineering principles carried out in real projects and problems needing solutions.
“I think that these opportunities at an early age not only help students get excited about future learning at a university but also provide a chance to take a risk and try out something they may not have thought was interesting to them,” Dobbins said.
Dobbins graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Science in aerospace engineering. He began his NASA career in 2011 in the Pathways Intern Program. Three years later, Dobbins started his full-time NASA career as a space station Environmental and Thermal Operating Systems flight controller. In 2022, Dobbins was added to the team of flight directors to oversee operations of the International Space Station, commercial crew, and Artemis missions to the moon. Dobbins is the 102nd flight director in NASA history.
Dobbins said that many Marian teachers were
incredible, but two in particular influenced him. Liggett provided opportunities to grow in STEM skills needed for success in engineering school. Social studies teacher Dr. Glenn Pinnau introduced many experiences that Dobbins said improved his critical thinking and leadership skills.
“After Chris told the students how beneficial it was to learn the basics of computer programming, my students became very interested in taking computer programming in the next school year,” Liggett added. “My students were also impressed that he knew the astronauts
At the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Expedition 69 flight directors Chris Dobbins and Nicole McElroy monitor NASA astronaut Frank Rubio, along with Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergey Prokopyev and Dmitri Petelin, as they undock from the International Space Station in the Soyuz MS-23 spacecraft to begin the journey back to Earth on Sept. 27.
Student of the Week Kaylee Garrett
Woodstock North High School senior Kaylee Garrett is the daughter of Sue and Scott Garrett.
Her teacher commented, “Kaylee is a dilligent, studious individual who is a quality student ... she assists others, goes above and beyond on her classwork, and asks good questions.”
Kaylee is involved in many activities in school including National Honor Society, marching band, theater, and textiles club.
Kaylee said, “I’ve had the opportunity through those clubs and more to learn leadership, find a sense of community, and make connections I know I will cherish for a lifetime.”
Outside of school, Kaylee is highly involved with Boy Scouts, where she has done multiple service projects and learned many things. She enjoys working with McHenry County Conservation District and Christmas Clearing House.
Tracie Muehler Team
815-482-4909
tmuehler starckre com
ELEMENTARY STUDENT OF THE WEEK
Maggie Healles
Dean Street Elementary School
3rd Grade
Our readers were most impressive in coming up with the location of the houses in the above photo from April 1969. Our most in-depth answer came from reader Ray Beth, who contacted our Intrepid Photo Detective Maggie Crane with the following:
“Those houses run along W. Jackson just off the Square. The first house is on W. Jackson and S. Tryon. It belonged to John M. Hoy, who was a prominent Woodstock banker with the 1st National Bank. His father was Maraduke Hoy, one of Woodstock’s leading businessmen back in the late 1800’s. I spent a lot of time in that house back in the 1950’s as my Aunt Helen was their cook and housekeeper. We have many Hoy family items spread over our families’ homes. The land was purchased by the Woodstock 1st National Bank in the late ’60s, and a new bank was built under my Uncle Harold Beth, who was chairman of the bank board then.”
As Intrepid Photo Detective Maggie Crane told Ray, “Getting answers like yours is why I enjoy doing this so much!” We couldn’t agree more.
I.P.D. Crane also heard from Kathy Fosnaugh, Mary Sugden, Larry Hansen, Charis Bradley, Diane Lucas, Edgar Ideler, John Rigby, and Jon Sheahan. She noted that six of those eight knew the location, and the two others were in the right neighborhood but on the wrong street. The second photo above was taken by the late Jim Keefe from Jackson and Tryon streets after the bank opened. Today, it is a BMO-Harris.
-Susan W. Murray
COURTESY PHOTOS
Original Photo Detective photo, April 1969
Jim Keefe photo taken from Jackson and Tryon Streets
‘The community really came together’
At Cor Jesu, visitors are reminded of the reason for the season
By Tricia Carzoli NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
The Mission of Cor Jesu held its fourth annual Live Nativity and Bethlehem Market Dec. 13 and 14.
“We had a great turnout,” Libby Oleferchik, president and executive director of The Mission of Cor Jesu, said. “There were about 150 people in attendance each night.”
Children and animals braved the winter weather to depict the night of Jesus’s birth with a sizable crowd looking on.
Located at 5615 Hamilton Road, The Mission of Cor Jesu is a Woodstock 501(c)(3) charitable organization run by “faithful Catholics,” Oleferchik said. “Our mission is to bring all people to the Heart of Jesus through our ministries, family events, and use of our facilities.”
Visitors enjoy photos with Santa. The Mission of Cor Jesu held its fourth annual Live Nativity and Bethlehem Market Dec. 13 and 14.
A night of activities
Each night began with shopping, crafts, singing, snacks, and hot
Celebrate!
said. “There really is something for everyone.”
Re-presenting the Christmas story
After the indoor activities, the community went outside for the nativity play.
Sheep, a donkey, and a llama provided by Glory Bound Rescue Ranch in Marengo made appearances in the dramatization of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem and Jesus’ birth.
“We had about 15 to 20 kids each night participate in the nativity play,”
cocoa.
Children had the opportunity to shop for family members in the marketplace in Our Lady of the Angels Hall, where items were offered for free.
“We put up flyers at local churches asking for donations,” Oleferchik said, “and the community really came together. The market was so successful, and the children were able to pick out gifts for their families.”
She explained that one of the joys of the event is that participation is available to all ages.
“Little ones can shop at the market and be in the nativity play, teens can volunteer as shepherds to help children navigate the Bethlehem market, the community can donate items to our market, and older helpers can assist in wrapping gifts the children have picked out,” she
Oleferchik said.
She said that the more than 50 volunteers helped make this event be as successful as it was.
“We wanted to help all those who come encounter the true reason for Christmas through our living nativity but also through sharing in the joy of giving and the beauty of Christian community,” she explained.
“We try to really draw people into the Christmas spirit by engaging their senses. There was someone roasting chestnuts on an open fire so visitors could smell Christmas, hot cocoa and candy canes are offered as they entered so they could taste Christmas, and there was live music each night inside so they could hear Christmas.”
She said that many families have been coming to the event since 2021.
“Their children look forward to this event every year,” she said.
Children portray Mary and Joseph with a donkey from Glory Bound Rescue Ranch.
INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY TRICIA CARZOLI
Happenings
8 p.m. to midnight
$60 individual tickets, $50 per person sold in pairs, Opera House membership tickets $45, VIP tickets $100 815-338-5300 ticketets@woodstockil.gov JANUARY
SLC
1 WEDNESDAY
5:30 p.m. woodstockpubliclibrary.org
WOODSTOCK CITY COUNCIL
Council Chambers, City Hall 121 W. Calhoun St.
7 p.m. woodstockil.gov
9 THURSDAY
SLC TRIVIA NIGHT - PUB TRIVIA USA
Stage Left Café
125 W. Van Buren St.
2
SLC TRIVIA NIGHT - PUB
W. Van Buren St. 7 p.m. woodstockoperahouse.com CAREGIVER’S SUPPORT GROUP
Woodstock Public Library
414 W. Judd St. 10 a.m. woodstockpubliclibrary.org
4 SATURDAY
WOODSTOCK INDOOR FARMERS MARKET
All Seasons Orchard 14510 Rt. 176 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org
7 TUESDAY DAR GENEALOGY WORKSHOP
Woodstock Public Library 414 W. Judd St.
7 p.m.
woodstockoperahouse.com
10 FRIDAY
SECOND HAND NEWSFLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE
Woodstock Opera House
121 W. Van Buren St.
7:30 p.m.
$30
woodstockoperahouse.com
11 SATURDAY
HOLLOW TREE SPINNERS
Woodstock Public Library
414 W. Judd St.
10 a.m.
woodstockpubliclibrary.org
MUSIC FOR HORNS, PIANO AND STRINGS
Woodstock Opera House
121 W. Van Buren St.
7:30 p.m.
$30 A seats; $25 B seats
woodstockoperahouse.com
12 SUNDAY
SPHERES BUBBLE SHOW
Woodstock Opera House
121 W. Van Buren St.
2 p.m.
$30 adult; $25 child woodstockoperahouse.com
13 MONDAY
COFFEE WITH THE CHIEF
Woodstock Police Department
656 Lake Ave.
7 p.m.
815-338-6787
14 TUESDAY
PROPERTY TAX WORKSHOP
Woodstock Public Library
414 W. Judd St.
6 p.m.
woodstockpubliclibrary.org
AS SEEN ON PINTEREST: ADULT CRAFTS: CANVAS MOSAIC SNOWMAN
Woodstock Public Library
414 W. Judd St. 6:30 p.m.
woodstockpubliclibrary.org
D-200 BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
Woodstock High School
501 W. South 7 p.m.
15 WEDNESDAY
MEMORY MAKERS STORYTELLING GROUP
Woodstock Public Library
414 W. Judd St. (in person) 9:30 a.m. to noon 815-338-0542, ext. 14125
Catholic Church
16 THURSDAY
SLC TRIVIA NIGHT - PUB TRIVIA USA
Stage Left Café
125 W. Van Buren St.
7 p.m.
woodstockoperahouse.com
18 SATURDAY
WOODSTOCK INDOOR FARMERS MARKET
All Seasons Orchard
14510 Rt. 176
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
woodstockfarmersmarket.org
TREASURE ISLAND
Woodstock Opera House
121 W. Van Buren St.
1 and 4 p.m.
$9 alll seats
woodstockoperahouse.com
21 TUESDAY
WOODSTOCK CITY COUNCIL
Council Chambers, City Hall
121 W. Calhoun St.
7 p.m.
woodstockil.gov
QUILTER’S DISCUSSION FORUM
Woodstock Public Library
414 W. Judd St.
7 p.m.
woodstockpubliclibrary.org
22 THURSDAY
THE A, B, C & D’S OF MEDICARE
Woodstock Public Library
414 W. Judd St. 6:30 p.m.
woodstockpubliclibrary.org
FLASHBACKS
35 years ago – 1989
■ The Woodstock City Council created a new department combining the Woodstock Public Library and the Woodstock Recreation Department. Librarian Maggie Field agreed to being named director.
■ Recently opened Jail House Pizza in the Old Courthouse Building on the Square served more than 100 pizzas at its open house.
30 years ago – 1994
■ The Woodstock School District 200 Board of Education approved putting a $52.5 million referendum before voters.
■ The City Council voted to name the Bates Park baseball diamond Toney Roskie Field. Roskie was a longtime educator and coach at Todd School and Woodstock High School.
■ Salvation Army bell-ringer Kevin Flaherty’s kettle netted three gold coins over the course of the Christmas season.
25 years ago – 1999
■ After more than 30 years serving the community at the corner of Dane and Washington streets, the Pierce family announced the sale of Pierce’s Little Store.
■ Victor Narusis, a graduate of Marian Central Catholic High School was named president of AMCORE Bank Northwest.
20 years ago – 2004
■ Woodstock High School senior Andrew Widmer received the Good Citizen Award from the Daughters of the American Revolution.
■ New Horizons Veterans Center received a $10,000 donation from the estate of Janina Ebel, who spent four years in a Polish labor camp during World War II. After the war she immigrated to the U.S. and lived in Woodstock.
15 years ago – 2009
■ Mistletoe Magic team leaders presented checks totaling $15,000 to Turning Point, the Direct Assistance Program, and the Wednesday Night PADS
program. Mistletoe Magic had been Grace Lutheran Church’s annual holiday fundraiser for many years.
■ The Independent staff published its choices for the top news events in Woodstock in 2009. Included were: Barrington Bank & Trust’s foreclosure of the Hummel Group development, Woodstock Station, early in the year and its purchase of the property for $1.25 million in November; Aurora University’s decision to offer a Master in Business Administration in Woodstock; and, because of the recession, the city of Woodstock decision not to refill vacated positions, so city staff was down 14 people.
10 years ago – 2014
■ An early season flu outbreak hit Woodstock and the surrounding region exceptionally hard. At Verda Dierzen Early Learning Center, more than 170 of the school’s 771 students were absent on a given day.
■ “The Nutcracker Ballet” was being performed at the Opera House by the Judith Svalander Dance Theatre. Svalander started producing excerpts of the popular Christmas ballet at the Opera House in 1984, working up to the full show by about 1990.
■ Local filmmakers who produced a documentary about Dick Tracy creator Chester Gould had received a commitment from WTTW Chicago for airing the special in February. Ahoj Productions, led by Woodstock residents –father, Tom, and sons Steve and John Firak – had been working on the documentary for seven years.
5 years ago – 2019
■ Outstanding math teacher, inspirational coach, and beloved principal Robert Hackbart was chosen by the Woodstock District 200 Education Foundation to receive the 2020 Sue Palmore Award for Excellence. As a principal, Hackbart was know for always making time for struggling students. “My philosophy is what is best for the student,” he said. “Every student is different.” Hackbart retired in 2016 after a 32-year career in D-200.
■ The city of Woodstock honored lifelong Woodstock resident John Widmayer for 50 years of service to youth sports and the community. Widmayer was a crew chief and referee for 50 years of high school football games, 40 years of basketball games, and 30 years umpiring girls softball games. “I have been blessed to be assigned to referee
in 12 state finals: four in football, three in girls basketball, and five in girls softball. … I truly enjoy being around the young student athletes,” Widmayer said.
■ The Woodstock community donated funds, time, and gifts to Christmas Clearing House. About 1,400 families living in Woodstock and Wonder Lake received food, toys, books, and other gifts. The Rotary Club of Woodstock sponsored and organized the project.
1 year ago – 2023
■ WHS senior Spencer Cullum became the newest member of an elite group of athletes, joining the Blue Streaks’ 1,000-point club.
■ Woodstock Independent editor Larry Lough’s top three news stories of 2023 were the Oct. 19 gas explosion that destroyed two homes and damaged 18 other homes and buildings; the opening of the city-owned Old Courthouse Center; and the University Center project of McHenry County College. The top three for Facebook readers were an April accident that closed Route 47, the explosion making a wedding change venues, and BBQ King closing in Woodstock.
EDITORIAL CARTOON BY JIM PEARSON
DEC. 23, 2009
PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT
COURT OF THE TWENTY-SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT MCHENRY
COUNTY, ILLINOIS-IN PROBATE
Case No. 2024PR000339
In the Matter of the Estate of JOYCE A. PAYNE
Deceased CLAIM NOTICE
Notice is given of the death of JOYCE
A. PAYNE
Of: WOODSTOCK, IL
Letters of office were issued on: 12/3/2024
To Representative: CURTIS L. PAYNE
1721 WALNUT DR.
WOODSTOCK, IL 60098
whose attorney is: KNAPP, PETER G. 244 N. THROOP ST. SUITE 110
WOODSTOCK, IL 60098
Claims against the estate may be filed within six months from the date of the first publication. Any claim not filed within six months from the date of first publication or claims not filed within three months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to Creditor, whichever is later, shall be barred. Claims may be filed in the office of the Clerk of Circuit Court at the McHenry County Government Center, 2200 North Seminary Avenue, Woodstock, Illinois, 60098, or with the representative, or both. Copies of claims filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to his attorney within ten days after it has been filed.
/s/KATHERINE M KEEFE (Clerk of the Circuit Court)
(Published in The Woodstock Independent December 11, 2024, December 18, 2024, December 25, 2024)L11880
PUBLIC NOTICE
ASSUMED NAME
Public Notice is hereby given that on DECEMBER 9, 2024 An Assumed Name Business Certificate was filed in the Office of the County Clerk in McHenry County, IL under the following business name and address, and setting forth the names and addresses of all persons owning, conducting and transacting business known as BARDZ located at 8610 CENTER COURT FOX RIVER GROVE, IL 60021. Owner Name & Address: JILL R. ERICKSON 8610 CENTER COURT FOX RIVER GROVE, IL 60021.
Dated: DECEMBER 9, 2024
/s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk)
(Published in The Woodstock Independent December 18, 2024, December 25, 2024)L11881
PUBLIC NOTICE
TAX DEED NO.: 2024TX000075 FILED:
12/10/2024
TAKE NOTICE
County of McHenry
Date Premises Sold: November 14, 2022
Certificate No.: 2021-00165
Sold for General Taxes of (Year): 2021
Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment Number: N/A
Warrant No.: N/A Installment No.: N/A
THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES
Property Located at: 1418 Antuna Boulevard, Woodstock, IL 60098
Legal Description or Property Index No.: 07-26-429-003
This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on May 21, 2025.
The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his or her assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the County Clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming.
This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before May 21, 2025.
This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of McHenry County in 2200 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock, IL 60098, Room 202, on July 7, 2025 at 11:00 AM.
You may be present at this hearing, but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time. YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY
Redemption can be made at any time on or before May 21, 2025 by applying to the County Clerk of McHenry County, Illinois at the Office of the County Clerk in Woodstock, Illinois.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT THE COUNTY CLERK
667 Ware Rd. Suite 107 Woodstock, IL 60098 815-334-4242
Myriad Capital LLC Purchaser or Assignee December 17, 2024
Keith Schaid
Occupant
Mary L Rudder
Kurtis Allen Schaid
Jaqueline K Rebolledo
Cary L Schaid
Yvonna M Moody
Joseph J. Tirio, County Clerk of McHenry County, Illinois
Claimants, Judgment Creditors, and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “Unknown Owners” “Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots”
(Published in The Woodstock Independent December 25, 2024) L11882
PUBLIC NOTICE
TAX DEED NO.: 2024TX000083
FILED: 12/10/2024
TAKE NOTICE
County of McHenry
Date Premises Sold: November 14, 2022
Certificate No.: 2021-00562
Sold for General Taxes of (Year): 2021 Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment Number: N/A
Warrant No.: N/A Installment No.: N/A THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES
Property Located at: 1006 Clay Street, Woodstock, IL 60098
Legal Description or Property Index No.: 13-05-129-006
This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on May 21, 2025.
The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his or her assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the County Clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming.
This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before May 21, 2025.
This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of McHenry County in 2200 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock, IL 60098, Room 202, on July 14, 2025 at 11:00 AM.
You may be present at this hearing, but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time. YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY
Redemption can be made at any time on or before May 21, 2025 by applying to the County Clerk of McHenry County, Illinois at the Office of the County Clerk in Woodstock, Illinois.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
CONTACT THE COUNTY CLERK 667 Ware Rd. Suite 107 Woodstock, IL 60098
815-334-4242
Myriad Capital LLC Purchaser or Assignee
December 17, 2024
Glynnis Walker Anderson, Trustee under the Glynnis Walker Anderson Living Trust Agreement dated August 7, 2019
Glynnis Walker Anderson
GW Anderson Liv TR
Occupant
Sabrina Anderson
Kimberly Grandinetti Connor Corbett
Illinois Department of Revenue
State of Illinois Department of Revenue
Attorney General for State of Illinois Department of Revenue
McHenry County Treasurer
Joseph J. Tirio, County Clerk of McHenry County, Illinois Claimants, Judgment Creditors, and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “Unknown Owners” “Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots”
(Published in The Woodstock Independent December 25, 2024) L11883
PUBLIC NOTICE
TAX DEED NO.: 2024TX000084
FILED: 12/10/2024
TAKE NOTICE
County of McHenry
Date Premises Sold: November 14, 2022
Certificate No.: 2021-00563
Sold for General Taxes of (Year): 2021
Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment Number: N/A
Warrant No.: N/A Installment No.: N/A
THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES
Property Located at: 912 Clay Street, Woodstock, IL 60098
Legal Description or Property Index No.: 13-05-132-007
This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on May 21, 2025.
The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his or her assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the County Clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming.
This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before May 21, 2025.
This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of McHenry County in 2200 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock, IL
60098, Room 202, on July 14, 2025 at 11:00 AM. You may be present at this hearing, but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time. YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY
Redemption can be made at any time on or before May 21, 2025 by applying to the County Clerk of McHenry County, Illinois at the Office of the County Clerk in Woodstock, Illinois.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
CONTACT THE COUNTY CLERK
667 Ware Rd.
Suite 107
Woodstock, IL 60098 815-334-4242
Myriad Capital LLC
Purchaser or Assignee
December 17, 2024
Lance Johnson
Lance Johnson
Lance Johnson
Occupant
Judith M Johnson
Deborah A Johnson
Babzett E Sherfield
Joseph J. Tirio, County Clerk of McHenry County, Illinois
Claimants, Judgment Creditors, and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “Unknown Owners” “Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots”
(Published in The Woodstock Independent December 25, 2024) L11884
PUBLIC NOTICE
TAX DEED NO.: 2024TX000080 FILED: 12/10/2024
TAKE NOTICE
County of McHenry
Date Premises Sold: November 14, 2022
Certificate No.: 2021-00405
Sold for General Taxes of (Year): 2021 Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment Number: N/A
Warrant No.: N/A Installment No.: N/A THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES
Property Located at: 806 North Concord Drive, Woodstock, IL 60098
Legal Description or Property Index No.: 09-31-102-001
This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on May 21, 2025. The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his or her assignee pays any subsequently
accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the County Clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming.
This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before May 21, 2025. This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of McHenry County in 2200 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock, IL 60098, Room 202, on July 7, 2025 at 11:00 AM.
You may be present at this hearing, but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time. YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY
Redemption can be made at any time on or before May 21, 2025 by applying to the County Clerk of McHenry
County, Illinois at the Office of the County Clerk in Woodstock, Illinois.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT THE COUNTY CLERK
667 Ware Rd. Suite 107 Woodstock, IL 60098
815-334-4242
Myriad Capital LLC
Purchaser or Assignee
December 17, 2024
Teri V. Martin, as trustee of the Teri V. Martin Revocable Living Trust dated January 16, 2003
Teri V. Martin, Trustee Occupant
Kristopher L Martin
Joseph J. Tirio, County Clerk of McHenry County, Illinois Claimants, Judgment Creditors, and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “Unknown Owners”
“Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots”
(Published in The Woodstock Independent December 25, 2024) L11885
PUBLIC NOTICE
STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTY-SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT MCHENRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS-IN PROBATE Case No. 2024PR000297
In the Matter of the Estate of JOAN K. LAMEKA
Deceased
CLAIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of JOAN K. LAMEKA Of: WOODSTOCK, IL
Letters of office were issued on: 12/16/2024
To Representative: ROBERT P. LAMEKA
154 PINE GROVE RD. LAKEMOOR, IL 60051 whose attorney is:
3611 HYDE PARK CT. ELGIN, IL 60124
Claims against the estate may be filed within six months from the date of the first publication. Any claim not filed within six months from the date of first publication or claims not filed within three months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to Creditor, whichever is later, shall be barred.
Claims may be filed in the office of the Clerk of Circuit Court at the McHenry County Government Center, 2200 North Seminary Avenue, Woodstock, Illinois, 60098, or with the representative, or both. Copies of claims filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to his attorney within ten days after it has been filed.
/s/KATHERINE M KEEFE (Clerk of the Circuit Court)
(Published in The Woodstock Independent December 25, 2024) L11886 PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF CHANGE TO DBA CLOSING THE BUSINESS File #21373
Public Notice is hereby given that on JULY 29, A.D. 2021, a Certificate was filed in the Office of the County Clerk of McHenry County IL concerning the business known as RED BARN MILL located at 11110 SEEMAN LRD. HUNTLEY, IL 60142 which certificate sets forth the following change: CLOSING THE BUSINESS in the DBA thereof: PATRICK DOYLE AND NANCY DOYLE CLOSING BUSINESS OF RED BARN MILL LOCATED AT 11110 SEEMAN RD. HUNTLEY, IL 60142. Dated this 19TH DAY OF DECEMBER, A.D., 2024
/s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk)
(Published in The Woodstock Independent December 25, 2024) L11887
Sports
Lacey
Schaffter helps
Dominican University earn two early wins COLLEGE REPORT
Lacey Schaffter, a Woodstock North graduate and Dominican University junior, is home celebrating the holidays.
The women’s basketball team, of which Schaffter is a member, is also celebrating wins in the past two games. In their final two games before Christmas, the Stars dumped Maranatha Baptist University (80-33) and Blackburn College (67-48).
The College Report
For the opportunity to stretch that winning streak to three games, the Star women’s squad will have to wait until the last day of the year, when they face Judson University on the road.
In the win over Maranatha Baptist, Schaffter had two points and four rebounds. She emerged off the bench and played 13 minutes. Three days later, she scored three points and pulled down six rebounds in 24 minutes of play. Once again, she emerged off the bench.
Thus far this year, Schaffter has played in all nine games and is averaging 20.2 minutes a game. She has scored 40 points by draining 15 shots from the field, six of which were from beyond the arc, and four free throws. In addition to her 4.4 points a game, she also has 25 rebounds, an average of 2.8 rebounds a game, six assists, four steals and two blocked shots
Overall, in the first nine games of the year, Dominican has posted a record of 3-6 overall and is 0-2 in the Northern Collegiate Athletic Conference.
Dan Chamness writes The College Report for The Independent.
individual
Marian wrestling strong in home opener
Defending team state champs, Hurricanes sweep quad meet
By Andrew Rousey NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
The Marian Central Catholic High School wrestling team hosted three teams for a quad meet Dec. 17. The Hurricanes –defending class 1A dual team state champions – have been wrestling through some injuries early in the season, but despite that, they went 3-0 on the night, besting St. Edward 66-15; Hope Academy 44-36; and Wilmot Union 63-12.
Several Hurricane wrestlers had standout nights. Austin Hagevold beat Wilmot Union’s state champion from 2024 by fall.
Brayden Teunissen, returning from injury, defeated Wilmot’s fifth-place state finisher from 2024 by decision.
Vance Williams, Jimmy Mastny, Andrew Alvarado, Dan French, and Connor Cassels all went 3-0, and Cam Spiniolas was 2-0 for his matches.
Next up, the ’Canes will see how they stack up with two tournaments on the schedule.
Dan Chamness
Hurricane senior Vance Williams (150) won all three of his matches.
INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY ANDREW ROUSEY
Last year’s
state champion at 157, sophomore Jimmy Mastny, wrestles in the 190-pound division.
School Spotlight
FLIPS, STUNTS, AND SPIRITS: WNHS Competitive Cheer
By Jen Nichols NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
The leadership may be young for the Woodstock North competitive cheer team, but the coaching experience and the team dynamic are unmatched. Coach Hannah Wilmot looks forward to a season of learning and progress.
“Our goal this season is to improve our overall scores from the previous year. We will continue to improve our stunting, tumbling, and jumps,” Wilmot said.
Not only will Wilmot rely on returning leaders, but she looks forward to the knowledge the coaching staff has
to offer.
“A fun fact is that our assistant coach Kaela Williams and I cheered together in high school,” she said.
Coach Julianne Brunken brings over 25 years of experience to the staff. The Thunder cheer team will learn from the best.
Team leadership
Team captain and KRC All-Conference athlete Katelyn Feller will continue to be the frontline leader and challenge her team to make onward progress.
“She can adapt and overcome any obstacle,” Wilmot said. “Her
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK WEEK
Addison Udelhofen - Girls Basketball
Addison Udelhofen is a senior starter and leader on the girls basketball team. Addie caught fire from the 3-point line last week in the Northern Illinois Holiday Classic. Against McHenry, she hit four 3s in the fourth quarter to seal a win for the Thunder. The following night against Lakes, Addie set a new school record, hitting eight 3s, and she also scored a career-high 26 points. This led the Thunder to three wins on the week.
Keep it up Addison!
ability to support her teammates is commendable.”
Feller will continue her sophomore year as a versatile cheerleader who can perform multiple stunting positions and tumbles.
A new addition to the Thunder team is freshman Lexi Cuevas.
“She is dedicated and exemplifies what it means to be a team player,” Wilmot said.
Cuevas also brings experience to the team as she is very successful when performing stunting positions, always performing above and beyond expectations.
Team challenges
The challenge for Feller, Cuevas, and their cheer team includes the completion of a full-twisting dismount from a single leg stunt.
“My goal for this team is to support each other through the entire season and master more pyramid skills,” Wilmot said.
The season not only includes competitions, but also a youth camp for future cheerleaders which was held Dec. 16-17. The participants performed their routine at halftime of the WNHS boys basketball game Dec. 18.
The KRC conference competition will be Jan. 20 and sectionals Feb. 1.
YOUNG GUNS
High School. Marengo also competed in the meet.
IN BRIEF
Woodstock United Soccer preps for field upgrades
Woodstock United Soccer Club is kicking off a major field improvement project with a new three-year partnership with Langton Group, a leading local landscaping company in the area. The collaboration is aimed at enhancing and maintaining the club’s 20-acre soccer complex in northern Woodstock. The partnership highlights the club’s ongoing commitment to providing toptier facilities for its players while contributing to the growth of soccer in the community.
Langton Group will be responsible for the comprehensive care of the soccer fields. The company will focus on improving the field quality through expert lawn care, soil conditioning, drainage solutions, and advanced turf management techniques. The goal is to create optimal playing conditions yearround, ensuring the fields are safe and suitable for practice and competitive games.
“This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for Woodstock United,” said Collin Beck, president of the club. “By investing in the quality of our fields, we’re not just improving the experience for our players, but also strengthening the foundation for the future of soccer in Woodstock. Langton Group’s expertise and commitment to excellence will have a lasting positive impact on our facilities.”
As part of the agreement, Langton Group will implement eco-friendly practices and the latest sports field technology to maintain the highest standards of field care. The work will include ongoing monitoring of field conditions, with improvements starting in the fall of 2024 and becoming visible in the spring of 2025. These enhancements will benefit athletes of all ages and skill levels, from youth soccer players to adult league participants.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Woodstock United Soccer Club,” said Kyle Cook, director of sales at Langton Group. ““We look forward to making a positive difference for players and the Woodstock community as a whole.”
Woodstock United Soccer Club serves hundreds of young athletes across the region, offering competitive and recreational soccer programs. The club’s fields are used not only for practice and league play but also for local tournaments and community events, making this partnership even more significant for the broader Woodstock area.
The field upgrades began in October of this year, with substantial changes expected to be visible in the spring of 2025. The club is excited for the community to experience the enhanced facilities in the years to come and is confident that this partnership will help continue to grow the sport of soccer in Woodstock.
■ Dec. 12 - Woodstock (2-1) edged Marengo in a close match 38-37.
BOYS CO-OP BOWLING
■ Dec. 16 - Woodstock Co-op (11-1) defeated St. Edward 9-0.
■ Dec. 17 - Woodstock Co-op (12-1) beat Johnsburg 9-0 (3,530-2,985). Woodstock junior Max Haggerty shot a 672 series, with fellow Woodstock junior rolling a 638 series.
■ Dec. 18 - Woodstock Co-op (12-2) fell to Marengo 4-5 (3,323-3,262). Woodstock junior Max Haggerty rolled a 660 series. Woodstock junior Sonny Marsalla shot a 594 series.
■ Dec. 21 - Woodstock Co-op finished third at the E-Rab Invitational with a total pinfall of 4,866 pins. Woodstock junior Sonny Marsalla finished third for individual high game with a 267 in game two. North junior Levi Perrotta finished fifth for total series, rolling a 1,061 series through five games.
GIRLS CO-OP BOWLING
■ Dec. 16 - Woodstock Co-op (5-1) defeated Jacobs 9-0 (2,651-2,408). North senior Torin Deacon rolled a 574 series, with a 236 in game three. North junior Ava Caldwell shot a 528 series, with a 201 in game 2.
PHOTOS BY ANDREW ROUSEY
Two freshmen wrestlers, North’s Brayden Sobczak (126) and Blue Streak Aiden DeLeon (130), take on Harvard Hornets Dec. 12 at Woodstock North
