Woodstock Independent 4/17/24

I NDEPENDENT The Woodstock

By Tricia Carzoli NEWS@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

For second time in seven years, a total solar eclipse passed through Illinois on April 8.

“A total solar eclipse is when the moon is directly between Earth and the sun and casts its shadow upon the Earth,” Dr. John Carzoli, professor

HOME, FARM & GARDEN

Get your spring on with this special section PAGE 17

WNHS students build six benches for TLC park PAGE 25

April 17-23, 2024

of physics and astronomy at Oakton College. “When the Earth, sun, and moon are lined up just right, the moon’s shadow touches the earth.”

Carzoli headed to Olney, Illinois for the eclipse.

“In Woodstock about 91% of the sun was covered by the moon,” he explained. “Because the sun was so bright, you might not have noticed if

you weren’t aware of it. If you are in the path of the darkest shadow of the moon called the umbra, then the sun will be completely covered, and you will only see the corona – the outer atmosphere of the sun.”

Windows out, Opera House renovations begin

Streets Grant Program].”

Something looks amiss in the façade of the Woodstock Opera House.

“The windows are being taken out to be restored,” Opera House Director Daniel Campbell explained. “It is something we began working on before we were awarded the [Department of Economic Opportunity – Rebuild Downtowns and Main

“Because of that,” he explained, “the windows are the first project to get underway.”

The 47 windows and doors are slated to be restored by Heritage Restoration and Design out of Peoria at a cost not to exceed $887,713.

“When you look at that number,” Campbell said. “It seems like a lot of money. You can break it down and it is around $15,000 per window. But with original pieces of history, we

are taking a conservative approach. Once you change historical elements, they are gone forever.”

He cited the loss of authentic light fixtures in the past as a reason to restore rather than replace the windows.

“The original light fixtures were taken out during a renovation,” he said. “The only lights we have are purchased or borrowed, but not original.”

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER Students at Dean Street Elementary School look through their protective glasses with wonder as they get their first view of a total eclipse April 8.

999.00

ECLIPSE

Continued from Page 1

High schoolers look up

WHS chemistry and environmental science teacher Nick Aiello took his sixth and seventh hour classes outside to view the eclipse.

“I personally teach AP chemistry during this time,” he said. “So I got to share this moment with some of our most advanced science students.”

Aiello prepared his high school students for what they were about to witness by leading them through data exploration and explaining how UV levels drop during an eclipse.

“I always go into this with the mentality that I might have to travel 150 miles or more,” he explained. “That was the case this time.”

Porter did have some cloudiness, but he said he was able to view roughly three minutes of the fourand-a-half minutes of totality.

“To see everything go from dark to light in ten seconds is incredible,” he said. “People don’t know what they are missing. Totality is up to a million

(offer expires May 31, 2024)

He said, “This has a great effect on reducing the amount of airborne chemicals in that specific area for a short time.”

Teachers in the district were able to secure solar eclipse glasses for students.

“I believe this was a moment that the students really deserved to be a part of,” Aiello said. “I give kudos to parents who allowed their students to leave school early to go witness it all.”

Everything’s bigger in Texas

While Aiello discussed the differences between 100% totality and 90% totality, WHS science teacher Jake Porter flew to Texas to experience the event.

“This was a hole-in-one of nature,” Porter said. “It was simply mesmerizing.”

Porter flew into San Antonio knowing that Texas would have the longest time in totality – four-and-a-half minutes.

When it became apparent that cloud coverage in the area might prevent him experiencing totality, he drove to Coppers Cove, TX, where there was less cloud coverage.

times cooler than seeing 99% totality through a sun filter.”

Porter described the event as, “the peak of visual magic. It is so unnatural to see a black disk in the sky.”

He said the moment the clouds parted he was able to see solar prominences and sit back and take it all in.

Carzoli said he had been to Carbondale in 2017, but totality for him was marred by a single cloud that covered the entirety of totality. He experienced the full three minutes and 49 seconds this time.

“I can’t believe that all the pieces came together and I was finally able to see it,” he said. “This was an experience well worth planning and traveling for. And, I was able to experience it with my family.”

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI

The Diamond Ring at the beginning of totality with solar prominences visible in red. Image from Olney, Illinois.

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER

Dean Street students watch the eclipse.

For the first time in six years, the McHenry County Farm Bureau Ag in the Classroom Ag Expo returned to its in-person format last week. With over 200 volunteers, the three-day event at the McHenry County Fairgrounds reached up to 1,300 local students, exposing them to elements of agriculture in McHenry County.

Sadie McKee (above), Woodstock, shares her love of pigs.

INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY TRICIA CARZOLI

Audrey Davis teaches embryology, while Duane Dahlman talks tractor safety.

Calves chill in a stall while visiting students look on.

OBITUARIES

Dong-Chin Huh, M.D., 85

Dong-Chin Huh, M.D., cherished husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and beloved friend, peacefully passed away on April 6, 2024.

Born on December 13, 1938, in near Pusan, South Korea, he married Young-Ok Park on January 11, 1966.

Donations sought for Melissa O’Leary splash pad

The city of Woodstock is accepting donations for the Melissa O’Leary Splash Pad at Emricson Park. Donations of any amount are

welcome and appreciated. The city is hoping to raise $250,000 to complete the project.

Visit woodstockil.gov for more information.

Mercyhealth encourages helmets for cyclist safety

“We applaud people for getting out and exercising,” said Dr. Christopher Wistrom, EMS Medical Director. “But we strongly encourage them to take the extra step of investing in and wearing a helmet. It really does minimize injuries.”

The following information should be followed when choosing a bike helmet:

Dong-Chin Huh, M.D.

Dong-Chin was known for his kindness, generosity, integrity, determination, work ethic, and intelligence. He dedicated himself to his family, his devoted wife of nearly 60 years, YoungOk, his two sons, John, and Eugene, and his four grandchildren, Mason, John, Nicholas, and Sophia.

Professionally, he served his patients with care, practicing Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, treating, and saving countless lives in Woodstock.

In his leisure time, he found joy in playing tennis, listening to classical music, gardening, woodworking, and traveling, especially to Hawaii.

A Celebration of his Life was held on April 12, 2024, at the Schneider Leucht Merwin Cooney Funeral Home, 1211 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock from 9:00 am until the 11:00 am Funeral Service. Interment followed in the Oakland Cemetery in Woodstock.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Adult Day Program at Independence Health and Therapy or the Woodstock Fine Arts Association. Links for donations are: Independence Health and Therapy: https://independencehealth.org/ Woodstock Fine Arts Association: https://woodstockfinearts.org/

Where to send obituaries

You may email obituary information to pr@thewoodstockindependent.com, or mail to or drop it off at our office, 671 E. Calhoun St., Woodstock IL 60098. Obituaries are published online immediately and in the next print edition.

There is a charge for the publication of obituaries and accompanying photographs.

For more information, call The Independent at 815-338-8040.

PUBLIC SAFETY LOG

Woodstock Police Department

■ Juvenile, 14, Woodstock, was arrested March 22 at Raffel Road on charges of staying out past curfew. Cited and released to parents. Court date April 11.

■ Christopher D. Cook Jr, 30, Johnsburg, was arrested March 23 at Lake Avenue on charges of retail theft and obstructing a police officer. Released on notice to appear. Court date April 1.

■ Marcos Chaves, 26, Woodstock, was arrested March 23 at Main Street on charges of unlawful use of a weapon (felony), unlawful use of a weapon (misdemeanor), and carrying a concealed firearm. Released on notice to appear. Court date April 1.

■ Steven S. Trommater, 62, Crystal Lake, was arrested March 24 at Route 14 on charges of no valid driver’s license and speeding. Released on notice to appear. Court date April 25.

■ Tamia S. Salinas, 18, Lake in the Hills, was arrested March 24 at Eastwood Drive and Calhoun Street on charges of no valid driver’s license (never issued), operating an uninsured vehicle, and operating a suspended vehicle for non-insured. Released on notice to appear. Court date May 2.

■ David Wojcik, 27, Woodstock, was arrested March 25 at Pond Point Road on charges of driving under the influence, driving while license revoked, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. Released on notice to appear. Court date April 18.

■ Tyler T. Lindsley, 37, Dundee, was arrested April 5 at North Seminary Avenue and St. Johns Road on charges of driving while license suspended, operating an uninsured vehicle, and

Spring is a beautiful time for cycling in the Midwest, but Mercyhealth clinicians want to remind people that safety should never be ignored, and the most important way to prevent serious injury while riding a bicyle is to wear a properly fitted helmet.

According to information from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 2 percent of all people killed in motor vehicle crashes are bicyclists, but many more are seriously injured. Wearing a bike helmet reduces the risk of head injury by 85 percent and brain injury by 88 percent.

operating a vehicle with suspended registration. Released on notice to appear. Court date May 2.

■ Juvenile, 17, Woodstock, was arrested April 6 at North Seminary Avenue on charges of driving without a license and driving with one headlight. Released to parent on notice to appear. Court date April 25.

■ Jaime Vasquez, 56, Woodstock, was arrested April 6 at North Throop and Washington streets on charges of driving without a license and failure to stop at a railroad signal. Released on notice to appear. Court date May 16.

■ Robert J. Glascoot III, 39, Woodstock, was arrested April 6 at Sebastian Drive on charges of domestic battery. Taken to jail. No bond. Court date to be determined.

■ Gabriela Uremovic, 52, Woodstock, was arrested April 7 at Ashley Court on charges of domestic battery. Taken to jail. No bond. Court date to be determined.

■ Tiffany E. Mikes, Woodstock, was arrested April 7 at St. Johns Road on charges of domestic battery. Taken to jail. No bond. Court date to be determined.

■ Luis M. Garcia Prado, 18, Woodstock, was arrested April 8 at Route 120 and North Queen Anne Road on charges of driving without a license and failure to yield at a stop sign. Released on notice to appear. Court date April 25.

■ Joan E. Rivera, 20, Woodstock, was arrested April 8 at East Calhoun and Madison Streets on charges of driving under the influence, possession of cannabis, and improper lighting. Released on notice to appear. Court date April

• A properly fitted bike helmet will be level from front to back and fit snugly and comfortably without tipping forward or backward.

•A properly fitted bike helmet should extend down about 2 inches above the eyebrows.

•Only helmets designed specifically for cycling are able to absorb the type of impact that may occur in a cycling crash or fall.

• During a crash, the foam lining in the helmet loses most of its protective value and the helmet must be replaced.

25.

■ Magdalena Vazquez, 18, Harvard, was arrested April 9 at Route 14 and Kishwaukee Valley Road on charges of driving without a license and speeding. Released on notice to appear. Court date April 25.

■ Robert J. Ivory, 21, Woodstock, was arrested April 9 at South Eastwood Drive on charges of driving while license suspended, operating an uninsured vehicle, and operating a vehicle with suspended registration. Released on notice to appear. Court date May 2.

■ Michelle P. Vette, 42, Crystal Lake, was arrested April 9 at South Eastwood Drive on charges of driving while suspended, operating an uninsured vehicle, and operating a vehicle with suspended registration. Released on notice to appear. Court date April 25.

■ Adrian K. Clark, 37, transient, was arrested April 9 at Lake Avenue on charges of failure to register as a sex offender. Released on notice to appear. Court date April 16.

Woodstock Fire/Rescue District

Ambulance runs March 28-April 3: 65

Fire runs

Vehicle Fire: 1

Combustible spills/leaks: 2

Electrical wire/equipment problem: 1

Person in distress: 2

Public service assistance: 11

Smoke/odor problem: 2

Dispatched/canceled en route: 3

Wrong location/no emergency found: 2

Malicious/mischievous false alarm: 1

System or detector malfunction: 4

Unintentional system/detector: 6

Total: 102

WINDOWS

Continued from Page 1

Restore over replace

The approach the city is taking is to preserve history through restoration in order to keep the historical aspects of the Opera House intact.

Campbell explained that, despite the windows having been cleaned and restored during a restoration project in the 1970s, the restoration is much needed.

“As with all things,” he continued, “there is wear and tear – and these windows incurred fifty years of wear and tear. They will be looking at extensive wood rot, glazing coming out, and general failure.”

Heritage Restoration and Design is tasked with safely and strategically removing and disassembling the windows – a process that began at the end of February, stripping the paint, repairing the wood, repairing the structural issues with like material, and reframing, before reconstructing and reinstalling the finished window.

“Our motto is maintain, restore, and keep,” Daniel said. “We want to preserve as much as possible.”

Project timeline

The windows restoration should be

the first project to be completed in the multi-month renovation undertaking.

“I was adamant that the project adhere to the timeline,” Campbell said. “We need to have the renovations complete before the start of our fall and holiday season.”

Currently, architects are working on architectural drawings, compiling material lists, and working on the engineering plans. As soon as that is complete, the city will put out bid documents with a plan to secure a contractor in May.

The loose schedule has construction on major projects beginning July 1 and includes: the addition of a third story above the south annex of the historic building which will house new locations for dressing rooms and bathroom facilities; updating the technology in the lighting, sound, and video; reconstruction of the auditorium stage floor to correct structural issues; renovations to the lobby, community room, and offices; and other interior renovations.

All renovations are set to conclude by September 30 so programing can begin again.

Interim plans

During the three-month closure, Campbell said the city and the Opera

House are planning more events in the city Square, programing in the Stage Left Café, and the continuation of City Band nights.

“I think the community recognizes the historic value of the Opera House,” Campbell said. “The Woodstock Opera House brings 2 million dollars to the city annually. It generates 50-plus jobs

throughout the city through tourism. But it is hard to quantify everything the building brings – at the end of the day, the Opera House is a home for the community.”

“I’ve dedicated my life to a building,” Campbell said. “But the community has, too. It is a part of our town and a part of our community.”

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI

A crane helps workers from Heritage Restoration and Design remove Woodstock Opera House windows for the first stage of restoration.

What’s next after Riverwoods approval?

After a 7- 0 Woodstock City Council vote on April 2 to allow the 320unit Lennar Riverwoods housing development to proceed, the city is still left with an issue that won’t go away. Concerns about what Riverwoods opponents saw as negative impacts are not going to disappear just because the vote was taken to approve.

City efforts and projects often refer to “stakeholders,” people with skin in the game who will be affected by actions the city takes.

The people bordering the Riverwoods development are stakeholders. Speaker after speaker at the April 2 meeting talked about how many years they have lived there and about their investment in their homes and in that part of rural Woodstock.

The future residents of Riverwoods will also be stakeholders since they will live in a development with some significant environmental concerns that need to be properly addressed.

The city of Woodstock is a stakeholder. How it oversees the project to make sure all issues are resolved will affect our reputation as a good place to move to.

Finally, all residents of Woodstock are stakeholders. The council spoke at the meeting about their duty as elected officials to work for the benefit of all residents. They talked about the need to prevent stagnation by bringing in more residents to share tax burdens and bump up population numbers, which will in turn attract and retain retailers, restaurants and medical facilities.

The concerns listed at the meeting were many: wetland conservation;

Lennar Development moves forward, but so does local environmental morale

By Erin Kennedy EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENDERS OF MCHENRY COUNTY

With the vote on whether to approve the proposed Lennar Riverwoods development at the forefront of the agenda, the

old growth tree preservation; flood buffer zones; protecting the aquifer; and preventing a possible rise in traffic accidents from a large influx of vehicles crossing and entering busy roads with no new stoplights planned.

Before the April 2 vote, Councilman Tom Nierman said he was going to “push for us to follow that stormwater management to a T … (that) all the stormwater retention, all the

buffering wetland areas (are) taken care of before a whole lot of dirt is “moved.” Councilman Darrin Flynn added, “People are important. We have to make sure the buildings are right, the development is right.”

Transparency will go a long way if the city actively shares the details of how those concerns are being addressed as the development moves forward.

Serious talk about traffic studies,

including a close watch on any accident upticks, would also go a long way to assuring that the city is invested in pushing for safety on roadways in the area.

The development vote is over. But there is work to be done to restore some of the faith that was lost in the process, when a large number of longtime Woodstock residents felt their voices, as stakeholders, were not heard.

Woodstock City Council met at the Opera House on April 2nd at 7pm. The Riverwoods development would consist of 320 homes, 244 single family and 76 duplex homes on 135 acres located at the headwaters of the Kishwaukee River off Lucas and Doty Rd. This development would also remove approximately fifty percent of the high-quality oak trees on the property. Lennar was given the opportunity to present the project to the city council and the public in attendance. Once Lennar’s

presentation and initial questions from the city council were completed, the meeting moved into public comment. One by one residents, community leaders, environmental professionals, and concerned citizens voiced their opposition to the development. The objections ranged from the loss of 200-year-old oak trees, the lack of an updated tree survey (the last one being in 2006), potential contamination to groundwater aquifers, the hydric soils not being suitable for development, the

additional infrastructure needed to support a living community as large as Riverwoods, increased traffic on Lucas Rd. and Doty Rd. and the safety implication of that increased traffic, the effect the development would have on property values in the area, the city annexing two parcels of land for the development, the lack of collaboration with the Woodstock environmental community, and many other important points. Public comment lasted for four

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER

The Lennar Riverwoods presentation shows typical house renderings at the April 2 city council meeting.

Speak like the Scots

My accent and vocabulary has shifted under the weight of sharp Scottish accents, thick Irish brogues, and lilting English accents while living in Scotland. No longer do I take “vacations,” but instead embark on “holidays.” I only ever use “trash cans” when around other Americans, but, more often than not, we both surrender to the Queen’s English and throw away our “rubbish” in “bins.”

Last year, I worked for a research group within the University of Edinburgh. About six months into living in Edinburgh, I had already adjusted to writing in British English throughout my studies, adding an “u” into “colour” and replacing a “z” with “s” relatively seamlessly. At the end of February in 2023, I attended a community event put on by the research group to highlight their yearly findings. As the room buzzed with different conversations, a melange of accents circulated throughout the room. Looking around and listening in, I realized I must have been one of the only Americans present.

Almost instantly, my midwestern twang collapsed under the weight of Scottish, Irish, Welsh, and English accents. In conversation with my coworker Jimmy, a stout and cheery Scouser with a very thick accent, I realized my own accent was warping into something unfamiliar. Exchanging pleasantries with Glaswegian Chelsea, I completely abandoned my round and wide midwestern vowels for long and staccato that made me sound half way between American and Scottish. Many of the people I met didn’t take notice, but I certainly did. Vocally, I was Frankenstein’s monster,

Continued from Previous page

hours, and during that time only the landowner spoke in favor of the development.

Although the city council voted unanimously in support of the project, the number of people who came out to address the city council, taking time out of their day because their community is important to them, was truly heartwarming. It is that community spirit and supportive nature that makes people want to move to Woodstock. Many conservation organizations in McHenry County are located in Woodstock, and I’m proud

a mishmash of all the accents in the room.

Unfortunately, there was no mad scientist to blame. Hours later, with my American twang returned to its former glory, I turned to Google in the pursuit of an explanation for my involuntary impersonations. Sociolinguists, those that study how language is affected by the context it is spoken, refer to mirroring and mimicking accents as style-switching. Much research notes this is unconsciously done to make communication more effective. But really, speaking an accent from America’s heartland, how could I have been misunderstood?

Americans-abroad-bubble. While sunk into this comfort zone, I knew I needed to branch out and integrate into Edinburgh to build a home in Scotland.

The demographic of my social circle shifted quickly and now some of my closest friends are Scottish, English, and Norwegian. Sometimes, I can hear my friends Sarah and Ellen’s Scottish intonation in my own voice when recounting a funny story. Camilla and Chloe have started to incorporate “y’all” into their vernacular, which sounds just as nice in English and Norwegian accents as it does in my friend Lucie’s Midwestern drawl. Unknowingly, we have memorialized our shared friendship with our own special dialect built from our favorite words and sounds from our favorite people.

Corrections

We strive for accuracy. To suggest corrections or clarifications, email news@ thewoodstockindependent.com.

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

A deeper dive down digital rabbit holes revealed a difficult truth: I simply wanted to belong. My involuntary linguistic accommodation was part of a deeper desire to generate a sense of solidarity through shared speaking patterns. The technical explanation brought me little comfort. My brain’s knee-jerk reaction to impersonate Jimmy and Chelsea, was instead a harsh reminder that I was still very much an outsider in my new home. Outside of work and school, my social circle was mostly made up of Americans. With one foot in Scotland and another in America, some treated their time in Scotland as a temporary blip and chose to remain in the ease and comfort of the

the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County has their office here. The residents of Woodstock are a group of engaged and concerned citizens; concerned about the environment and the precious natural resources we have in McHenry County, concerned about equity and equality for their community, and concerned about the growth and direction of the city often called one of the best places to live in Illinois.

This will not be the last issue residents are worried about in Woodstock, but I hope there will be the same level of community support and engagement when

When phoning family back home, my voice eases back into a Midwestern twang, mirroring the wide vowels and speaking pattern of my mom and dad. “Yeah, no, yeah, for sure,” I say on the phone to my mom. What may appear to the untrained ear as an unnecessary and excessive amount of “yeah’s” and “no’s” is merely an indication of engagement and enthusiasm and a hallmark of Midwestern vernacular. Reminders of home are few and far between living so far away from Woodstock, but I find nothing soothes a case of homesickness like the familiar voice of the ones you love.

Brigid McCormack is a former resident of Woodstock who is living and studying in Scotland. She will be a regular contributor to Declarations. Her email is brigidcatherine98@gmail.com

the next one arises. Though the decision wasn’t the one we had all hoped for, that doesn’t mean we stop caring or that our concerns just go away. We can continue to follow the progress of the development and demand the level of care and concern that was assured by Lennar at the meeting.

I want to thank the individuals who devoted months of their time and energy to advocate for why this development wasn’t a good fit for this piece of land. Thank you, you are what makes the city of Woodstock such an amazing community and great place to live and work in.

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Sandy Kucharski sandy@thewoodstockindependent com

PHOTOGRAPHER Ken Farver ken@thewoodstockindependent com

COLUMNISTS

Paul Lockwood, Lisa Haderlein, Dan Chamness, Patricia Kraft, Nancy Shevel, Julie Peters

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Vicky Long

CORRESPONDENTS

Tricia Carzoli, Janet Dovidio, Susan W. Murray, Megan Ivers, Lydia LaGue, Eileen Millard, Ruth Raubertas, Juel Mecklenberg, Seth Rowe, Julian Senn-Raemont

EDITORIAL CARTOONIST

Jim Mansfield

PROOFREADER

Don Humbertson

CIRCULATION

Beverly Meuch, Dennis Micheletti, Bill Schwerdtfeger, John Wickham

Deadlines & contacts

NOON WEDNESDAY

Press releases and photos

pr@thewoodstockindependent com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

pr@thewoodstockindependent

Wills, Trusts Estate Planning Residential Real Estate

Student of the Week Ella Notaro

Ella Notaro, a senior at Marian Central Catholic High School, is the daughter of Steve and Elaine Notaro, Crystal Lake.

She was nominated by her guidance counselor, who referred to her as one of the brightest shining stars at Marian. ”She is a selfless young lady who always has a smile on her face,” her counselor wrote. “She is involved in many ways here at Marian, is an elite athlete, a person of faith, and comes from a top notch family.”

A high honor roll student, Ella is also on the Principals list. She belongs to the Spanish and National Honor Societies, she earned the academic excellence award and the discipleship award.

Ella was the co-founder of the Green Club, and $99

Earn a bachelor’s or advanced degree close to home (in downtown Woodstock) from one of our educational partners:

*pending final approval

Scan the QR code to check out the University Center’s full list of partnerships and opportunities, or visit www.mchenry.edu/ucenter.

Bachelor’s and advanced degree programs within reach. Live Here. Learn Here.

Dr. Aaron Farber, from Northwestern Medicine, speaks with Woodstock High School students on April 3 about his educational path and day-to-day life as an emergency room physician. Farber is one of more than 20 career speakers who’ve spoken with high school students in District 200 this school year.

‘Students can’t dream about what they can’t see’ High School guest speakers bring careers to life

By Kevin Lyons DISTRICT 200

Tanya Thomas, Woodstock Community Unit School District 200’s new college and career counselor, wanted to address student needs as she began her new role this fall, and one thing became clear: Students wanted more direction about career paths.

Thomas said she pored over the last five years of senior surveys where students answered questions about what they benefited from and what else they believed they needed during their time in high school.

“Most said they wished they had more opportunities to learn about different careers,” Thomas said.

She decided that students would benefit from guest speaker appearances from variety of career fields. This school year, Thomas confirmed 21 guest speakers who’ve told Woodstock and Woodstock North high schools about their highs and lows, typical work days and the educational path that allowed them to reach their career goals.

“I’m a really big believer in the notion that students can’t dream about what they cannot see, so I wanted to make sure we brought people in here from many different fields,” Thomas said.

This year’s speakers have included psychologists, nurses, an emergency room physician, a real

estate agent, an industrial engineer, dieticians, a landscape architect, and a scientist who conducts cancer research.

An average of 15-20 students typically attend the speaking events, although some events have drawn as many as 40 or more students.

Many of the speakers were brought in through specific requests from teachers and students. Thomas has used the help of social media, colleagues and the community at large to find people in specific jobs that students are curious about.

“I’d say 75 percent of the speakers are graduates of Woodstock schools, which is meaningful for the students,” she said.

Thomas said she’ll continue increasing that network and is hoping to expand offerings to 45-60 speakers next year and in future years. She said she’s received a lot of positive feedback from students who’ve attended sessions.

“After the crash reconstructionist, one student said, ‘That was just the coolest thing ever! Thank you so much!’ So that’s been really great,” Thomas said.

Anyone who is interested in speaking about their career next school year or in future years is urged to contact Thomas at tathomas@wcusd200. org.

Kevin Lyons is communications director of School District 200.

College and career counselor Tanya Thomas speaks at Woodstock High School .

D-200 Musicians of the Month

Follow us at: www.d200MusicBoosters.org

Facebook: D200 Music Boosters • Twitter @d200mboosters

Emma Hinderlider

Mary Endres Elementary School, 5th Grade

What music activities are you involved in at school and what instruments do you play?

I play the cello in the orchestra, the flute in band, and I am also in chorus.

What got you interested in music?

I have always loved listening to music, and it has made me want to make my own music.

What is your favorite part of participating in band?

I like to be challenged with new and interesting music.

What is your favorite song or musical artist?

Taylor Swift

Jamin Guerra

Mary Endres Elementary School, 5th Grade

What music activities are you involved in at school and what instruments do you play?

I am in orchestra and chorus. I play the violin.

What got you interested in music?

I like how the instruments sound when they are played together. I heard my brothers play and that motivated me.

What is your favorite part of participating in orchestra?

We can all play music and we can all join together as an orchestra family, speaking the same language, music.

What is your favorite song or musical artist ?

Favorite song, “Avengers End Game Portals Main Theme,” and favorite artist, Louis Van Beethoven.

Jonathan Kruse

Mary Endres Elementary School, 5th Grade

What music activities are you involved in at school and what instruments do you play?

I play the ukulele

What got you interested in music?

My music teacher Mr. Moyta got me interested in music.

What is your favorite part of participating in general music?

Playing ukulele.

What is your favorite song or musical artist ? Indie band AJR

Reese Berndt

Mary Endres Elementary School, 5th Grade

What music activities are you involved in at school and what instruments do you play?

I’m in chorus and band. I play the trombone.

What got you interested in music?

I love listening to music and I think “the musicians that make the music for us are so kind,” and I want to make music for the world too.

What is your favorite part of participating in chorus?

The singing and the concerts we do

What is your favorite song or musical artist ?

My favorite song is “Shake it Off,” by Taylor Swift, because it pumps you up.

The female cast of “Steel Magnolias,” now playing at the Woodstock Opera House, through April 28.

‘To those we’ve cherished and lost’

Theatre 121’s ‘Steel Magnolias’ celebrates the strength and

resilience of Southern women

Theatre 121’s presentation of “Steel Magnolias” at the Historic Woodstock Opera House continues through April 28.

The heartwarming production of “Steel Magnolias,” Robert Harling’s celebrated play that delves into the strength and resilience of Southern women, continues through April 28 at the historic Woodstock Opera House.

Presented by Theatre 121 and directed by Jordan Rakittke, this touching narrative runs from provides audiences a deep and moving exploration of the bonds that connect everyone.

The story

“Steel Magnolias” unfolds in a smalltown Louisiana beauty salon, where six women share life’s joys and challenges. With wit, humor, and heart, the play beautifully portrays the unbreakable bonds of friendship.

“Steel Magnolias holds a special place in my heart, reflecting the profound connections we experience through love

and loss,” said director Jordan Rakittke. “This production, dedicated to those we’ve cherished and lost, celebrates the enduring strength of women. I am honored to share this story with our audience and hope it inspires them to hold their loved ones close.”

Immerse yourself in the laughter, tears, and resilience of “Steel Magnolias.” Theatre 121’s rendition of this timeless classic promises an unforgettable experience that will resonate with audiences long after the curtain falls.

Starring...

Tracey Lanman as M’Lynn and Christina Giorgi as Shelby bring to life the complex mother-daughter duo, showcasing remarkable chemistry that captures the essence of their relationship.

Rounding out the rest of the cast, Tracy Parr, Nora Brown, Alison Hage, and Julie Dietrich Brouton add depth and authenticity to this beloved story.

Nicole Lapas and Molly Engdahl, our skilled swings, contribute their versatility to this dynamic cast and step into the roles of Truvy and Annelle for the performance on April 21.

Get your tickets

When:

April 12 – April 28

Fridays and Saturdays, 7:30 p.m., Sundays, 2 p.m.

Where:

Woodstock Opera House 121 Van Buren St.

Tickets:

www.theatre121.org or call 815-338-5300.

Adults $26

Seniors $24

Students $16

COURTESY PHOTOS

Celebrate Record Store Day in Woodstock

By Julian Senn-Raemont NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

For those seeking a rousing time on the now infamous 4/20 holiday weekend, look no further than Woodstock’s very own vinyl shop, The Records Department. On Saturday, April 20, they will open at the crack of dawn, 7 a.m., to participate in Record Store Day, a national event.

“Die-hards will travel to many different stores,” says Michael Sacco, proprietor of The Records Department.

Since its inception in 2007, Record Store Day has celebrated independent record store owners by offering limited pressings for vinyl collectors and curiosos.

The Records Department in the Old Courthouse Center will feature one-time only releases from artists as varied as 10,000 Maniacs, De La Soul, and Frank Zappa.

Record Store Day is exclusive to independent vinyl shops, of

which there are only 1400 in the U.S.

Uniquely, McHenry County has become something of a “hub” for records, having between three and four sites.

“We’re happy to contribute to that scene,” says Sacco.

In addition to opening early and carrying limited time only music, The Records Department is putting on a concert at 8 p.m. featuring Fangerlis, a self-described cowboy murder grass punk group, and J.F. Zastrow, a singersongwriter, folk musician, and gentleman.

The stacks of records will be moved aside to make room for “a very intimate performance” from these two artists.

There will also be free Record Store Day swag (posters, pins, etc.) and a joyous sense of community in The Records Department from sunup to sundown.

“We hope to hang out with current friends and make new ones,” Sacco said.

PICTURE THIS

The McHenry County Historical Society’s Museum, located at 6422 Main St. in Union, is now open for the season. Last year MCHS celebrated 60 years of collecting, preserving, and sharing its county’s history with the public. To commemorate this anniversary, our featured exhibit, “60 Years, 60 Objects: Stories from McHenry County,” remains on display through October 2024. This exhibit highlights sixty objects from the historical society’s collection to tell the story of McHenry County. Museum hours are 1 to 4 p.m.Tuesday through Friday, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. Please visit mchenrycountyhistory.org for more information.

The Woodstock Public Library, along with citizens of Woodstock, honor Nettie Burger (right) during a ceremony at the Woodstock Public Library in 1970. Nettie was a long-time library board member. Photos and displays show the library when it was located at the Opera House. From left: Jennette Burbank, library board member; Alice Joslyn, library board member; unknown; Lillian Strohm, and Nettie Burger.

Don Peasley Photo Collection, McHenry County Historical Society

INDEPENDENT FILE PHOTO

The Records Department in the Old Courthouse Center will celebrate Record Store Day, April 20, with limited edition merchandise and a live music performance at 8 p.m.

Woodstock Folk Festival benefit planned April 21

The Woodstock Folk Festival will presents its Spring Benefit Concert, Sunday, April 21, at 2 p.m., at Unity Spiritual Center, 225 West Calhoun St. The church is located on the corner of Tryon and Calhoun streets.

This year’s theme is “What’s Your Story?” and will feature an afternoon of music in many styles with personal stories woven in.

There will be an opportunity for audience members to share their own stories as well. By telling stories and hearing those of other people, listeners gain insights into the uniqueness of each person and into our shared humanity, building community through music.

The suggested donation is $20 at the door and includes themed light refreshments. All proceeds benefit this year’s 39th Annual Woodstock Folk Festival on Sunday, July 21, from noon to 6 p.m., on the Woodstock Square.

Musicians and singers will include Tricia Alexander, Jim Gary, Russ Goeltenbodt,

Pete Jonsson accompanied by Marty Brunkalla and Cheryl Niemo, Megon McDonough, Jane Richards and Colin Richards, Alpha Stewart, Jr., and Tony Willis. Spoken-word performers will include Marilyn Rea Beyer, Dorothy Biris, Aieden Grace, and Rev. Marypatriece Wendt. Off Square Music will provide sound. Stories such as one performer’s Assyrian grandmother, and another performer’s family history in string bands will be shared. In another story, the performer’s father emigrated from Germany, fell in love, then defended his country against the country of his birth - and many other stories.

For more information about the concert and the Festival, visit woodstockfolkfestival.org.

The Festival is a 501(c)(3) Illinois nonprofit organization, made possible in part by Radio Partners WDCB, WFMT, and WNUR, the City of Woodstock, Real Woodstock (www.realwoodstock.com), sponsors, and individual donors.

The Festival welcomes donations yearround. Sponsorship opportunities can be found on the website.

Business

OPEN FOR BUSINESS

After sustaining significant damage to its storefront and interior when a car drove through the front of the sandwich shop on February 26, Jimmy John’s reopened on March 18.

In the three weeks that Jimmy John’s had to be closed, the shop’s countertops, floor, and oven were replaced, said Amy Ligman, the general

IN BRIEF

Dordan achieves medical packaging certification

Woodstock’s Dordan Manufacturing, a leading designer and manufacture of thermoformed packaging like medical device trays, blisters, kits, and assembly trays, recently announced its achievement of ISO 13485: 2016 certification. This accomplishment solidifies its commitment to meeting the highest quality and regulatory requirements within the medical device industry.

ISO 13485 is an internationally recognized standard developed for organizations involved in the design, production, and servicing of medical devices. The rigorous ISO 13485 certification process

manager. No charges were filed against the driver, according to the Woodstock Police Department.

The plywood and wooden door will remain in place until the new windows and door are installed, in about two to three weeks, Ligman said.

-Susan W. Murray

Transactions filed in the McHenry County Recorder’s Office March 20 to 27.

■ Residence at 675 Dane St., Woodstock, was sold by Mene LLC, Woodstock, to Michael C. Schuch, Woodstock, for $275,000.

■ Residence at 706 Hickory Road, Woodstock, was sold by Keith Lessner, Huntley, to David L. Steckl, Woodstock, for $500,000.

■ Residence at 4701 McCauley Road, Woodstock, was sold by Dennis L. Behrens, Rolling Meadows, to Joseph De Lucca, Woodstock, for $500,000.

■ Residence at 8709 Sedge Meadow Drive, Wonder Lake, was sold by The William O’Brien and Suzann M. O’Brien Declaration of Trust, Crystal Lake, to Sara Lubeno, Wonder Lake, for $399,900.

■ Residence at 418 Ridgeland Ave., Woodstock, was sold by The Cencula Living Trust, Woodstock, to The Daniel Adams Trust, Woodstock, for $150,000.

■ Residence at 8515 White Oaks Court, Wonder Lake, was sold by CalAtlantic Group LLC, Schaumburg, to Emilio Pacheco Jr., Wonder Lake, for $319,990.

■ Residence at 3919 W. Lake Shore Drive, Wonder Lake, was sold by The LSF9 Master Participation Trust, Dallas, Texas, to Mark F. Ryan, Wonder Lake, for $284,000.

■ Residence at 8507 White Oaks Court, Wonder Lake, was sold by CalAtlantic Group LLC, Schaumburg, to Joseph R. Bein, Wonder Lake, for $339,900.

involved comprehensive evaluations of Dordan Manufacturing’s Quality Management System, emphasizing its ability to maintain the highest standards throughout the design, development, production, and distribution processes. This certification not only validates the company’s capability to consistently meet customer and regulatory requirements, but also reinforces its position as a reliable partner for medical device manufacturers worldwide.

“We are thrilled to announce our ISO 13485 certification, a milestone that reflects our relentless pursuit of quality, safety, and reliability in all aspects of our operations,” said Daniel Slavin, President and CEO at Dordan Manufacturing.

“Dordan is a sixty-two-year-old family company that began in a store front in Chicago. I’m very proud of our evolution from such modest origins to becoming a high-quality medical thermoformer that provides innovative, reliable, and compliant packaging to medical device manufacturers.”

Dordan Manufacturing’s ISO 13485: 2016 certification not only reinforces its position as a leader in the packaging industry, but also underscores its readiness to meet the evolving needs and stringent requirements of the medical device sector.

For more information about Dordan Manufacturing and its medical packaging solutions, visit www.dordan.com

■ Residence at 220 Wildmeadow Lane, Woodstock, was sold by The Living Trust of Bruce E. Hodina, Tinley Park, to Marissa Palczynski, Woodstock, for $229,000.

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER

HOME FARM GARDEN

A special section of The Woodstock Independent April 17, 2024

John Bartman, Marengo, owner of Bartman Farms, climbs aboard his tractor. Bartman is a fifth-generation farmer who will continue the tradition of McHenry County’s longestrunning vegetable stand this spring after the loss of his father, John Frank Bartman, late last year.

‘PEOPLE WILL BUY ANYTHING ON A HIGHWAY’

McHenry County’s longest-running vegetable stand is in Marengo

By Tricia Carzoli HOME, FARM & GARDEN

When Marengo resident John Bartman looks out onto the Bartman Farm property, he sees a history that not only belongs to his family, but also to McHenry County.

Bartman’s grandparents, Ted and Betty Bartman, purchased farmland in Marengo in 1959 and began selling produce on a roadside vegetable stand in 1963 – where it has been ever since. The stand is a half mile outside of Marengo on Route 176.

“It is the longest-running vegetable stand in McHenry County,” Bartman explained. “Every year

we probably have 50 percent returning customers and 50 percent new customers during the season.”

The Bartman family has agricultural roots dating back to 1846 when Bartman’s great-great grandfather, Johan George Bartmann, (sic), homesteaded in Wheeling. Their son, Frank continued to farm as did his son Ted and his wife, Betty – Bartman’s grandparents.

Bartman’s father, John Frank, continued the legacy in Wheeling while simultaneously expanding to the property in Marengo.

Bartman said his father would drive back and forth from Wheeling to Marengo daily, tending to both farms while taking vegetables to the produce market in Chicago.

John Frank married his wife, Rosemary, in 1965 and moved his family to Marengo full-time in 1968. The pair raised four children while John Frank

raised crops including vegetables and grains. He opened Bartman’s Farm Fresh Produce in Wheeling, which soon would move to Marengo.

“There is a reason we are located on a highway –Illinois Route 176,” Bartman said, quoting his grandfather, “People will buy anything on a highway….”

Bartman grew up working the stand alongside his family and reminisced about playing basketball in the hayloft of the family barn with a hoop he purchased from money he earned working the stand.

“We worked with our parents for as long as I can remember,” Bartman said. “My father was a shy farmer, and he didn’t want his kids to be shy like him. My folks made us interact with the customers as often as possible – to this day it is one of my favorite parts of having the vegetable stand. I get to meet so many people with different stories and from all over.

HOME, FARM & GARDEN PHOTOS BY TRICIA CARZOLI

VEGGIE

Continued from Page 17

It’s great.”

Growing up during the farm crisis of the 1980’s Bartman’s parents insisted that he find a career other than farming.

Bartman learned to love people through the Bartman’s Farm Fresh Produce stand and, as he became more involved in the agricultural community, he melded his love of agriculture with political policy at the University of Dayton, where he majored in Communication Management. He landed a congressional internship with Don Manzullo having spent many hours talking with him as a young teenager when Manzullo, stopped into the vegetable stand on his way to and from work.

After college, Bartman worked for 13 years in the Administration of the Illinois Department of Transportation. During his tenure, his father suffered a major heart attack and stroke in 2012. Seeing the need to help his family, he took over the farm duties while working full time off the farm.

In 2016 Bartman ran for Illinois 63rd House District while continuing to help his father maintain the family farm. He eventually found that he loved the prospect of being his own boss and working alongside family tending to crops.

In December, Bartman’s dad passed away at the age of 85. The family tradition will continue with Bartman overseeing the 950 acres – 320 of which he owns.

The Bartman family has sold sweet corn and other vegetables from the Marengo vegetable stand off Illinois

Route 176 for more than half a century. Today, the family grows sweet corn, soybeans, field corn, wheat, and cereal rye. Their wheat remains in Illinois. The soft red winter wheat is perfect for bakery goods such as cakes and pretzels, while his cereal rye is frequently used at local distilleries including Rush Creek. The grain crops are sold at the local grain elevator where they are turned into everyday products such as soybean oil for ink, ethanol, and livestock feed.

In addition to sweet corn, Bartman grows tomatoes, green peppers, and lavender, all of which are sold at the family-owned roadside stand as well as to local businesses, including Weber Grill.

Lavender was added by Bartman three years ago. He offers pick-yourown lavender and sells to restaurants which use it for lavender gin, as well as

fields for this year’s growing season.

tilled

to businesses that utilize it for soaps, perfumes, and wreaths.

But it is the stand that brings Bartman joy.

“It’s a business where people are always excited to see you,” he said of the stand that is open for approximately one month – usually beginning on the Fourth of July.

For 55 growing seasons, Bartman’s Farm Fresh Produce has provided the community with fresh vegetables and good conversation.

“I love people,” Bartman said. “One of the best things about having this stand is when the corn is really good –and people tell you it’s good.”

Bartman is excited to begin planting and looks forward to opening the historic stand once more.

“I love seeing the customers,” he said. “But the best part is learning who they are and hearing their stories. It is

one of the things I enjoy most about the roadside vegetable stand.”

Bartman strongly believes that agriculture is something everyone should be engaged in. He encouraged everyone to try to grow something at least once in their life.

“You can grow food in your own garden – or on your balcony,” he said. “Just grow something. You’ll feel better about yourself. Grow one pepper plant or one tomato plant. Grow a carrot. You will be enriched by the experience. Just do it.”

Bartman’s Farm Fresh Produce vegetable stand is located along Highway 176 in Marengo and usually opens in July and can be found by the roadside stands.

“The fresh vegetable season is wonderful, just like a warm summer night,” he said. “But they end too quickly, so enjoy it while it lasts.”

The winter wheat crop greens up even before the leaves begin to appear on trees.

Bartman is happy to be prepping his

One of the fields at Bartman Farms shows newly

soil which soon will nurture a corn crop next to a field of winter wheat.

Wednesday, May 8 and Thursday, May 9 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

McHenry County College | Building D Greenhouses

Veggies, herbs, annual and perennial flowers, blooming containers and hanging baskets all grown and cared for by our Horticulture and Entrepreneurial Agricultural students; your purchase supports our programs!

‘IT TOOK ME TO ANOTHER WORLD...’

A crocodile, a dragon and an owl walk

By Eileen Millard HOME, FARM & GARDEN

From the street, Amy Vandament’s house looks like other houses in the neighborhood near Woodstock High School. But entering the backyard statuary garden on a spring day is a walk into a wonderland filled with animals, mythical creatures and sculpted pieces full of folklore symbology.

Vandament is a sculptor, and she has added pieces to her statue garden over the 21 years she has lived in Woodstock. They are all crafted from a special mix of concrete, sand, and aggregate she has perfected over time, with some sculptures incorporating other materials. The larger pieces can weigh 300 pounds or more, and one of her pieces is over six feet tall.

“I like making three-dimensional objects,” she said. Her interest started in the fifth grade. “I made a dragon out of a cardboard box. It took me to another world, that moment.”

into a garden...

Her sculptures are there for her own enjoyment, Vandament said. She does not sell them, but will occasionally trade one to another artist for a piece of their art.

The process

“The process is addictive,” Vandament said. She starts with a sketch, from which she shapes a threedimensional wire armature, made with an expanded metal mesh that is similar to chicken wire, but with much smaller open spaces that hold the concrete better.

The armature is then attached to a base of wood and concrete. Next, she builds it up with the concrete mix, layer upon layer, until it is ready for her to sculpt in the final features and details before the concrete mix dries.

The inspiration

Vandament gets her inspiration from nature and folklore. Owls are a favorite motif. “They symbolize wisdom and protection,” she said. There are three owl sculptures in her garden: two on the ground and one perched atop a tall tree.

The owl in the tree overlooks a central sculpture in the garden that evokes elements of the “Green Man” legend of British folklore. But in this case, it’s a Green Woman. “She has a nice hairdo in the back,”

HOME, FARM & GARDEN PHOTOS BY EILEEN MILLARD

A life-sized crocodile with glowing marbles on its back, a dragon that welcomes visitors by the back door, and an owl in a tree are three of Amy Vandament’s many yard sculptures.

Tulips come up in front of the “Green Woman,” a central piece in the garden.

Continued from PREVIOUS page

Vandament said. “I just think it’s a nice, welcoming kind of face. She is kind of the spirit of the whole garden.”

Another of Vandament’s favorite wildlife pieces is a moth that stands about four feet tall. “I like insects, and I think moths are pretty interesting – they are night creatures,” she said. She describes her moth’s design as a folk tradition representation.

A major sculpture in the garden is her take on a human skull, a massive piece decorated with bright red pieces of mosaic glass. “I just like the human skull,” she said. “We all have a skeleton inside of us; but we don’t often think about the skeleton, or the skull, and how it protects us. Also, it’s a reminder that death is ever present.”

Her crocodile is a life-sized, natural representation of the reptile, with the addition of some clear glass marbles along its back. “I backed them with copper film used for stained glass work, so there is a coppery reflection,” she said. “If you look down, when the light hits them, they have sort of a glow.” A pair of rusted doorknobs for eyes completes the creature.

The mask wall

She credits gargoyles as an inspiration for many of the masks that are hung along a wooden wall in

the garden, about 16 in total. Some recent rain has adorned them with a pop of color in the green lichen that has formed on them.

One of her newest masks, still in progress, is the face of a bat. “I started this one about two years ago,” she said. “I mean to finish it this year. He needs a beard, and needs his eyes resolved, and his ears smoothed out. Once I get that worked on, he’ll be ready to hang up.”

A small piece sits on the ground, a bust of a man. “He needs a garland of flowers,” she said. As to the design, she said, “It just came out of the concrete.”

By her back door sits a dragon, featuring a garden hose nozzle for its snout. Smaller masks are hung along her home’s back wall. Often they are the result of using up last bits of mixed concrete so as not to waste it.

Sculptured by time

Since these are all outdoor pieces, they change over time, Vandament said. Weather, water and erosion take their toll, and the concrete loses detail. “We’ve lost some stones to freezethaw over the years,” she said, “but there’s always time to make more concrete.”

HOME, FARM & GARDEN PHOTOS BY EILEEN MILLARD Masks, a favorite of Vandament, adorn a fence in the garden.

The sound of romance

You’ve probably heard the sounds of “annual” cicadas as they appear in our area every summer - usually July thru September. This year will be very different with 2 broods of “periodical “ cicadas emerging in our area for 4 to 5 weeks starting at the end of May. Brood XIX, which has 4 species , emerges every 13 years . Brood XIII, which has 3 species , emerges every 17 years. This will be the first time in 221 years that the two broods have emerged together in a wide expanse of Illinois. The last time this happened, in 1803, Illinois wasn’t even a state and Thomas Jefferson was president. This will be a rare chance to experience cicada history.

Nancy Shevel Guest Column

attached to tree roots to sip on tree sap ( xylem) and grow underground. This year as the surrounding ground warms, they start digging up to get out and continue the next lifecycle.

At the surface they emerge from a small hole the size of a nickel that looks like a castle. Once you see a few of these, get friends, family, and flashlights because they come out at night and you will be able to see them emerge with their red bulging eyes and then find anything vertical to climb - like a mini sci-fi movie.

Once up in the trees they will start their ”molt,” shedding the exoskeleton they’ve been wearing for years. This transformation can take 1 to 2 hours, and then when it’s complete they will have a new exoskeleton and beautiful wings (see photo at left) .

University of Connecticut cicada

expert John Cooley said “ the number emerging this year could average 1 million an acre over hundreds of millions of acres over 16 states -mind boggling ... Easily hundreds of trillions - maybe quadrillions!”

He’s calling it “cicada-geddon .”

Myths busted

There are a few misconceptions about cicadas , but we really can easily coexist with them for a few weeks. They couldn’t bite you if they wanted to - no teeth and they can’t sting you without a stinger. They are not poisonous and won’t eat your vegetation. However, they will serenade us very loudly when all the males start singing to attract females- each species has it’s own mating call.

and sound or bumping into each other. This increases their levels of serotonin and then their bodies actually physically transform, becoming a different insect - a locust that needs to eat more and so forms swarms that devastate large parcels of land. I am not making this up.

“The last time this happened, in 1803, Illinois wasn’t even a state and Thomas Jefferson was president.”

- Nancy Shevel

After six days when their wings have dried and their exoskeleton has hardened and they are ready to fly , sing , mate, lay eggs and die (3 to 4 weeks). During this time they sip sap from trees to feed and keep hydrated. They do not bother vegetation. Every day they need to consume 300 times their body weight in sap.

No stranger to the planet

Biologist Gene Kritsky says it sounds like “the whole tree is screaming.” You may miss out on this if you live in an area with no trees older than 17 years because the cicadas have been below ground for 17 years sipping on sap from tree roots, so you would have to have older trees in your neighborhood.

Many people confuse cicadas with locusts and nothing is further from the truth! Locusts are grasshoppers ( Acrididae) gone bad. Grasshoppers live a solitary life feeding on vegetation and spending their lives in one area. If one area gets crowded, it triggers sensory stimulation either from sight

Grasshoppers are small and slim with a straight body and large hind legs for leaping, and come in colors of green , yellow and brown. Locusts are straw and brown colored. Cicadas have rounded bodies with big clear wings. “Annual” cicadas are green and “Periodical” cicadas have colors of orange and red. Grasshoppers make some noise by rubbing their huge large legs together, while male cicadas make a much louder noise using sound producing organs - tymbalsat the base of their abdomen.

Long-awaited return

This year’s cicada phenomenon has actually been waiting 13 and 17 years within two feet of the topsoil under trees where they burrowed down as nymphs and

Estimates are that cicadas have been around 40 million to 200 million years, and of course they have developed certain strategies for their lifestyles. They developed a straw-like structure ( nostrum ) that has a needle to pierce plant tissue and a tube for sucking. The cicada has developed a pump in their head to get sap (xylem) out of the tree roots while underground as nymphs .

Likewise they had to develop a special muscle to get so much fluid out of their bodies. This muscle creates a jet of urine with a flow of nine feet per second. Other than the substantially loud serenading, this is the only other drawback with cicadas. Perhaps for their short visit this year don’t stand under trees to avoid getting “squirted .”

After the metamorphosis is complete the males will start their serenade . Each species has it’s own distinct song which attracts females from the same species , which prevents hybridization. After

COURTESY PHOTO

Cicadas are shown in various stages of molt.

Continued from PREVIOUS page

mating, the females cut V-shaped slits in tree bark and lay their eggs ( see photo) between 200 to 400 eggs. This whole process take 3 to 4 weeks.

This is the only time your vegetation may take some damage . If you have small ( trunk under 2 1/2 “ ) trees or shrubs it is advised to net them. Garden net is readily available online at Home Depot , Walmart , etc. Cover the whole plant and tie the netting closed at the very bottom near the ground. Older trees and shrubs will not be damaged from the egg laying.

At between 6 to 10 weeks, tiny white cicada nymphs will fall to the ground like snow and start burrowing for their long underground life (90% of their lifespan).

Good eatin’

During their short and very noisy visit they provide an abundance of food for birds , fish , raccoons, possums , deer , squirrel and even snakes in our area. So please under no circumstances even think about using pesticides against cicada-palooza. It will be a useless

waste of time and money - a situation you can’t change -and eating poisoned cicadas will harm or kill local wildlife . Some pets like to eat them as well.

From what I’ve read, cicadas are an excellent source of protein for human consumption- as much protein as red meat. The best time to harvest them would be after they break open their original shell (molt) and then before their new exoskeleton hardens and turn brown.

Native Americans used to fry and roast them, stirring until brown. They supposedly have a nutty flavor when roasted. There are actually a few cicada cookbooks on the market now and many recipes on the net as well.

Cicada disposal

Lastly what to do with dead cicadas and empty shells ? Compost. Put them in your compost bin/pile as they are rich in potassium and nitrogen. Mix in a small amount of straw, sawdust, or shredded newspaper to balance out the nitrogen and help with the odor .

My final words to you - invest in earplugs!

Students offer skills and service

WNHS woods class students build benches for TLC’s Thompson Road Farm Park

By Jan Dovidio NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Two Woodstock North High School woods students volunteered to create and complete a project for The Land Conservancy of McHenry County.

Juniors Lincoln Dodge and Mason Nicolai volunteered when Maggie Bailey of the Bull Valley Garden Club suggested the need for six benches for the Thompson Road Farm Park to the building trades class taught by Gerald Blohm. Bailey hoped there could be student involvement.

“Lincoln and Mason enthusiastically stepped up for this project,” Blohm said. “I am very proud of not only the boys’ skill level in woodworking and carpentry but also of their eagerness to serve their community.”

Bailey provided the bench plans, while an anonymous donor provided all materials. The construction took several weeks, with Dodge and Nicolai working during lab time along with their class project. They also worked during periods when they did not have a scheduled class. Bailey arranged the delivery of the benches to the park.

“The boys have previous construction experience and that background knowledge showed in their on-task actions,” Blohm continued. “They completed the activity with only an occasional suggestion on my part. After my initial demonstration of how to cut and fabricate the bench components, they only needed to learn the process of attaching the components using mechanical fasteners.”

New TLC property

The Thompson Road Farm Park is a 270 acre property of natural, agricultural, and scenic land area

at the headwaters of Boone Creek in Bull Valley. TLC acquired the land in 2020. The park includes five miles of trails for riding, walking and hiking. The six new benches are located along the trails.

“For me, the best part was observing the boys working collaboratively with each other and independent of the need for my involvement,” Blohm said. “I saw the pride they took on making sure that each bench was constructed with exacting adherence to the details on the bench plan.”

“The beautiful benches built by the high school students will be an asset once the trails at the Conservation Area on Thompson Road are open to the public. We still need to raise about $120,000 to make that happen!” Baily said.

The Land Conservancy celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2021. TLC has preserved, protected and restored land and resources on more than 2800 acres.

Mason Nicolai (left) and Lincoln Dodge relax on one of the benches they built in woods class at Woodstock North High School. They built six benches to be used at Thompson Road Farm Park (below).

A plaque with the boys’ names is displayed on each bench.

Tony Cortese works on a mega-puzzle at the Woodstock Public Library April 10. The library began the 18,000 piece puzzle challenge Jan. 8 with library patrons dropping by to work on it daily. The puzzle was completed on April 11, 95 days after the challenge began.

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER

Photojournalist Don

Peasley left us with a real stumper for this month. Peasley took this photo in November 2012, but the story and photo have been separated, leaving our intrepid Photo Detective Maggie Crane with a line-up of questions:

What is the event or occasion that was photographed?

Where did it take place?

Who are the members of this happy crew who served up meals?

If you can provide any information, please contact Maggie Crane at MaggieC@woodstockil.info

-Susan W. Murray

Higgins was rescued in Kentucky, and when he came to Helping Paws he was very shy. Acclimating to shelter life was a big change. After he settled in, he had a collar on for the first time, got used to walking on a leash, and heard lots of new sounds. He’s still a bit timid, but he has come a long way. He’s a happy and friendly boy, and always excited to go on walks. He’s also super into treats. If you are looking for a new best friend, Higgins is your boy! Call HP to meet him.

2500 Harding Lane, Woodstock (Off Rt. 14 at the Lake Shore Dr. traffic light)

COURTESY PHOTO

Teaching an old dog new tricks

“You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.”

How many times have we heard that canine cliche over the years? Well, according to a Hill’s Pet Nutrition website, that statement just isn’t true. A 2019 blog titled “Teaching an Old Dog New Tricks: A Guide for Senior Training” (https:// www.hillspet. com/dog-care/ training/canyou-teach-olddogs-new-tricks) by Jean Marie Bauhaus says that “While declining health might prevent older dogs from being able to perform certain tasks, they still have the ability to learn new skills — though at a slower rate than puppies and younger dogs.” In referring to test results from a journal called “Age,” Bauhaus continues: “In a study

conducted at the University of Vienna’s Clever Dog Lab, a test of dogs’ ability to learn to distinguish between objects found that dogs around 10 years of age took more than twice as many repetitions and corrections than puppies 6 months to 1 year old. However, the older dogs outperformed the young pups in logic and reasoning tasks, suggesting that older dogs stubbornly refuse to unlearn what they already know.”

Why am I mentioning this, since my wife and I are owned by a threeyear-old cat, not a dog of any kind? Simply because I am the proverbial old dog who – now that I’m employed full-time again (see the bio below) – is trying to learn all of the “new tricks” involved with a new job – everything from the processes and procedures to the corporate culture to the acronyms to the various subject-matter experts (SMEs) who can help you with different topics.

Since I’m not the only one of a certain age who may be diving into a new paid or volunteer position,

EleMENts of Woodstock

2nd Annual

Men’s Fashion Show Sunday, April 28 2-4 PM

Oliver’s Ballroom, Woodstock $50/pp, 21+ Event Only

Proudly benefitting the Frances Kuhn Scholarship winners presented by the Woodstock Professional & Business Women

Thank you to our sponsors!

I was hoping to find some reassurance from Bauhaus that could transfer from mammals with four legs to those of us with no more than two. Sure enough, I found some tips that we – and our supervisors – might want to keep in mind:

Evaluate

Do I have any health issues or cognitive dysfunction that might make it more difficult to learn? An example in the Bauhaus blog refers to behavioral issues – like soiling the carpet – that may stem from physical ailments. Self-analysis: minimal health issues (based on a recent physical) and no overriding cognitive problems. Check that one off.

Exercise

Bauhaus says if I’m easily distracted and have a hard time being attentive, I should go for a walk – or a game of fetch (in my case, fetching a refill on my water or other beverage) – to help release pent-up energy. Self-analysis: I don’t always have time between meetings, but

when I do, even a brief walk can help me get the adrenaline going again so I stay sharp.

Reward

A favorite dog treat may help a pooch, but not a Paul. Praise, however, can be effective for both. When I send a series of queries to someone who can help me clarify one or more aspects of the “new tricks,” and that SME says, “Good questions!” I feel like my curiosity has been validated. However, don’t pat me on the head and tell me, “Good boy!” Self-analysis: How can I reward myself? Maybe – when I bend over backwards to complete a project – I should pat myself on the back. Bending over backwards and patting my back may no longer be possible, of course.

Ignore

Bauhaus advises that I need to ignore undesirable behavior. If it’s my own behavior, though, ignorance may not be bliss. If I get upset,

Continued on NEXT page

Paul Lockwood A Musing

Continued from PREVIOUS page

for example, I need to take a breath and calmly/diplomatically explain my thoughts. Self-analysis: I should cut myself some slack and not beat myself up – or focus too much of my attention on my difficulties – if it takes time to learn.

Take Breaks

Quoting Bauhaus: “It’s easy to get frustrated when your dog doesn’t seem to be catching on, and it’s very likely your old pup feels the same way.” In that case, take a break – if possible, until the next day. Selfanalysis: For me, even a 10-minute break (e.g., on work-from-home days, getting up to pet our beloved cat for a few minutes) can make everything seem more doable.

Be Patient

The adage “Rome wasn’t built in a day” IS accurate. If it takes multiple times performing a task for it to sink in and become a habit, so be it. Self-analysis: I find it difficult to be the tortoise in the “Tortoise and the

Hare” fable, but when you’re needing to create mandated government documents without any errors in the final product, “slow and steady” – or rather, “slow and accurate” –can win the race.

Practice

To quote Bauhaus, this “old dog needs consistent practice to learn a new skill. Skipping a day will only make it harder.” Self-analysis: I try to learn something new every day; the more I practice, the more I’ll learn and the better I’ll become.

To summarize: “I will succeed” should be the mantra of any of us in our later years. All we need is dogged determination.

Paul Lockwood is a Communications Consultant at Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC) in Chicago, an enthusiastic storyteller, singer, constant punster, occasional local theater actor, active Grace Lutheran Church and Toastmasters member, theater reviewer, and more. Paul has lived in Woodstock for over 23 years with his wife, Diane.

Happenings

calendar

17 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

18 THURSDAY

CREATIVE LIVING SERIESBRUCE IGLAUER

Woodstock Opera House

121 W. Van Buren St.

10 a.m.

$27

woodstockoperahouse.com

TOADSTOOL FARMERS MARKET FUNDRAISER

Dukes Inferno

11671 Catalpa Lane

6 to 8 p.m.

$20

WAX POETIC POETRY OPEN MIC

The Records Department

Old Courthouse Center

6:30 to 8 p.m.

SLC TRIVIA NIGHT - PUB TRIVIA USA

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m.

woodstockoperahouse.com

19 FRIDAY

‘MEAN GIRLS’

WHS & WNHS Theater production

Woodstock High School

501 W. South St.

7 p.m.

$10

whst.booktix.net

THEATRE 121 - ‘STEEL MAGNOLIAS’

Woodstock Opera House

121 W. Van Buren St.

7:30 p.m.

Adults: $26 A seats, $20 B seats

Seniors: $24 A seats, $18 B seats

Students: $16 A seats, $10 B seats

woodstockoperahouse.com

JAZZ NIGHT

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

8 p.m.

woodstockoperahouse.com

20 SATURDAY

RECORD STORE DAY

The Records Department

North Johnson St.

7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

‘MEAN GIRLS’

WHS & WNHS Theater production

Woodstock High School

501 W. South St.

2 p.m.

$10

whst.booktix.net

THEATRE 121 - ‘STEEL

MAGNOLIAS’

Woodstock Opera House

121 W. Van Buren St.

7:30 p.m.

Adults: $26 A seats, $20 B seats

Seniors: $24 A seats, $18 B seats

Students: $16 A seats, $10 B seats woodstockoperahouse.com

STAGE LEFT SESSIONS

FEATURING CRAZY HEARTS

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

8 p.m.

$10 in advance, $15 at the door woodstockoperahouse.com

21 SUNDAY

WOODSTOCK FOLK FESTIVAL SPRING BENEFIT CONCERT

Unitiy Spiritual Center

225 W. Calhoun St.

2 p.m.

$20 suggested donation

THEATRE 121 - ‘STEEL MAGNOLIAS’

Woodstock Opera House

121 W. Van Buren St.

2 p.m.

Adults: $26 A seats, $20 B seats

Seniors: $24 A seats, $18 B seats

Students: $16 A seats, $10 B seats woodstockoperahouse.com

OPEN MIC STORYTELLING

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

2 to 4 p.m.

Hosted by Jim May

‘MEAN GIRLS’

WHS & WNHS Theater production

Woodstock High School

501 W. South St.

7 p.m.

$10

whst.booktix.net

23 TUESDAY

DISTRICT 200 BOARD OF EDUCATION

Woodstock High School

501 W. South St.

7 p.m.

woodstockschools.org

25 THURSDAY

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN

CHURCH RUMMAGE SALE

2018 N. Route 47

8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

WOODSTOCK FIRE/RESCUE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

2900 Raffel Road

7 p.m.

SLC TRIVIA NIGHT - PUB TRIVIA USA

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m.

woodstockoperahouse.com

26 FRIDAY

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH RUMMAGE SALE

2018 N. Route 47

8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Items half price starting at noon

ALL-ORIGINAL OPEN MIC NIGHT

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m.

offsquaremusic.org

THEATRE 121 - ‘STEEL MAGNOLIAS’

Woodstock Opera House

121 W. Van Buren St.

7:30 p.m.

Adults: $26 A seats, $20 B seats

Seniors: $24 A seats, $18 B seats

Students: $16 A seats, $10 B seats woodstockoperahouse.com

27 SATURDAY

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH RUMMAGE SALE

2018 N. Route 47

Noon to 3 p.m.

$5 all you can fit in a bag

INDOOR WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

McHenry County Fairgrounds

11900 Country Club Road

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

woodstockfarmersmarket.org

WOODSTOCK SPIRITUAL SUMMIT

Unity Spiritual Center

225 W. Calhoun St. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

$8

THEATRE 121 - ‘STEEL MAGNOLIAS’

Woodstock Opera House

121 W. Van Buren St.

7:30 p.m.

Adults: $26 A seats, $20 B seats

Seniors: $24 A seats, $18 B seats

Students: $16 A seats, $10 B seats woodstockoperahouse.com

THE STAGE LEFTOVERS

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

8 p.m.

$10 in advance, $15 at the door offsquaremusic.org

28 FRIDAY

THEATRE 121 - ‘STEEL

MAGNOLIAS’

Woodstock Opera House

121 W. Van Buren St.

2 p.m.

Adults: $26 A seats, $20 B seats

Seniors: $24 A seats, $18 B seats

Students: $16 A seats, $10 B seats woodstockoperahouse.com

MAY

4 SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

woodstockfarmersmarket.org

FLASHBACKS

35 years ago – 1989

■ The Woodstock City Council unanimously approved a conceptual plan for the Castleshire residential development on Borden Lane.

■ Northwood Elementary School fifth-grader Seth Krause, with the help of the school’s PTA, organized a fundraiser for the “Adopt an Eagle Nest” program that rescued and rehabilitated eagles and cared for their habitats.

30 years ago – 1994

■ The Woodstock School District 200 School Board voted to adopt the Pegasus program, a reading program that encouraged students to read “real” books rather than anthologies or condensed stories.

■ The McHenry County Farm Bureau’s Ag Expo, held every other year at the McHenry County Fairgrounds, benefited more than 3,350 McHenry County elementary students.

25 years ago – 1999

■ Farm & Fleet celebrated the grand opening of its new site at Highway 14 and Lake Avenue.

■ The McHenry County Emergency Services and Disaster Agency was formulating plans to deal with any problems cause by Y2K, including powergrid failure.

20 years ago – 2004

■ Negotiations between District 200 teachers, represented by Local 1642 of the American Federation of Teachers, and the D-200 negotiating team concluded with a tentative agreement for a new three-year contract. Negotiations had begun in October. The two entities met 13 times with the final meeting lasting nine hours. Final approval would require a vote of the teachers and the School Board.

■ Kim Larson was named new executive director of the Adult & Child Rehab Center.

■ The Woodstock High School varsity girls track team took second at a 12-team meet at Riverside-Brookfield. The 4x1000 relay team of Lydia Loehner, Kelsey Duhai, Rachel Hansen, and Nikki Kreger took first with a season-best time of 52.7 seconds.

15 years ago – 2009

■ Bryan Sager was re-elected as Woodstock mayor. City Council

APRIL 27, 1994 – Darren Jones shows off a basketful of dried pig ears. Jones has been drying pig ears at Jones Locker in Woodstock and selling them as dog treats for the past four years. After a planned expansion, Jones will be producing about three million pig ears a month.

incumbents Richard Ahrens, RB Thompson and Michael Turner were unopposed.

■ In the District 200 School Board race, Paul Meyer, Marcy Piekos, Katherine Lechner, and Camille Goodwin were elected. Steve Schreiner received more votes than Goodwin, but he was the fourth highest vote-getter in Dorr Township, and no more than three members are allowed from one township. Goodwin was representing Senecca Township.

■ Woodstock and Woodstock North high school students were staging “Little Shop of Horrors” at WNHS.

Your ad could sponsor this Flashbacks section! Your ad could sponsor this Flashbacks section!

from each designated row to a local food pantry.

■ The Wonder Lake Chamber of Commerce selected Folliard Carpentry as its 2014 Business of the Year. Mark Folliard said he learned the carpentry trade and his strong work ethic from his father.

■ The Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Post 5040 announced winners: Patriot’s Pen – McKayla Reinhardt, Northwood Middle School; Voice of Democracy –Alyssa Andren, Marian Central Catholic High School, and Elisabeth Sullivan, WHS; and Teacher of the Year – Gail Vanderpoel, NMS.

5 years ago – 2019

■ A mid-April snowstorm dumped an estimated 8.5 inches of snow on Woodstock and kept Woodstock Fire/ Rescue crews busy at accident sites.

■ The city of Woodstock gave 5,000 reusable canvas shopping bags to local retail stores to hand out to celebrate Earth Day and to encourage shoppers to break their reliance on single-use plastic bags. The “sustainable Woodstock” bags were left over from a $40,000 purchase the city made so it could distribute a bag to every residence in Woodstock in 2017 and 2018.

■ The Woodstock Opera House debuted its Live Theatre Broadcast series with Danny Boyle’s “Frankenstein” movie, starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller. The Live Theatre Broadcasts would utilize the 22-by-12-foot screen that had been installed recently. The equipment to screen the series was made possible in part by a donation in memory of Darlene Fiske, a longtime Woodstock Fine Arts Association board member.

1 year ago – 2023

Chip Humbertson was the voice of Audrey II – the venus flytrap-like plant that feasts on blood to survive. Luke Denman manipulated Audrey II’s mouth movements. The show featured 20 performers, 20 members of the backstage crew, and a half-dozen in the orchestra pit.

10 years ago – 2014

■ Consultants from Houseal Lavigne of Chicago held a “visioning workshop” to give Woodstock residents the opportunity to discuss areas of the city where they believed housing, commercial, industrial, and recreational development was needed. The workshop was part of the city’s updating of its 2008 comprehensive plan.

■ Woodstock Moose Lodge 1329

INDEPENDENT FILE PHOTO BY DENNIS MATHES

Rules:

SOLUTION

WORD SCRAMBLE GUESS WHO?

Sudoku puzzles are formatted as 9x9 grids, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box.

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF CHANGE TO SBA CHANGE OF BUSINESS/OWNER(S)

ADDRESS

Public Notice is hereby given that on MARCH 27, A.D. 2024, a Certificate was filed in the Office of the County Clerk of McHenry County IL concerning the business known as TOUCH OF BEAUTY LANDSCAPE SERVICES located at 8401 N U.S. HIGHWAY 14 HARVARD, IL 60033 which certificate sets forth the following BUSINESS/ OWNER ADDRESS change in the DBA thereof: VICTOR A. MERCADO CHANGE TO BUSINESS/RESIDENTIAL ADDRESS FROM 8401 N. U.S. HIGHWAY 14 HARVARD, IL 60033 TO 305 W. BLACKMAN ST. HARVARD, IL 60033.

Dated this 27TH day of MARCH, A.D., 2024 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk)

(Published in The Woodstock Independent April 3, 2024, April 10, 2024, April 17, 2024)L11772

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on APRIL 2, 2024

Assumed

(Published in The Woodstock Independent April 3, 2024, April 10, 2024, April 17, 2024)L11771

Public Notice is hereby given that on MARCH 1, 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 BEST OF MEG located at 1610 ARQUILLA DR. ALGONQUIN, IL 60102. Owner Name & Address: MEGAN HERRERA 1610 ARQUILLA DR. ALGONQUIN, IL 60102.

Dated: MARCH 1, 2024

/s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk)

(Published in The Woodstock Independent April 3, 2024, April 10, 2024, April 17, 2024L11757

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 No Limit Transportation located at 610 Cartwright Trl. McHenry, IL 60050. Owner Name & Address: David Freeman 610 Cartwright Trl. McHenry, IL 60050.

Dated: APRIL 2, 2024

/s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk)

(Published in The Woodstock Independent April 10, 2024, April 17, 2024)L11775

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on

APRIL 5, 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 ALEMAR PROFESSIONAL PAINTING located at 3103 S. WOODS AVE. MCHENRY, IL 60051. Owner Name & Address: ALEJANDRO LEAL PORCAYO AND OMAR LOPEZ TAVERA 3103 S. WOODS AVE. MCHENRY, IL 60051.

Dated: APRIL 5, 2024

/s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk)

(Published in The Woodstock Independent April 17, 2024)L11776

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on APRIL 11, 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 NIPPERSINK CREEK PUBLISHING located at 101 NIPPERSINK DR. MCHENRY, IL 60050. Owner Name & Address: BEATRICE PEDERSEN 101 NIPPERSINK DR. MCHENRY, IL 60050.

Dated: APRIL 11, 2024

/s/ JOSEPH

Mason Schwalbach hits first homer for Kansas State U.

Mason Schwalbach stepped to the plate and with one swing of the bat, the Kansas State University junior had his first homer at the NCAA Division I level.

The Marian Central Catholic graduate, a Woodstock resident, smacked the solo blast to give the Kansas State University Wildcats an 11-0 lead in the eighth inning of their nine-inning game with neighboring Missouri State University. They would eventually win the game 11-3.

It was his only credited at-bat in the contest. More recently, the former Hurricane player, who twice earned All-American status at the National Junior Collegiate Athletic Association Division II level while suiting up for McHenry County College, accomplished the feat with one strike.

Dan Chamness

The College Report

Woodstock North senior Ben Lagerhausen is the sole returning varsity starter for the Thunder.

More recently, Schwalbach got his second hit of the year. In a 21-11 loss to the University of Texas Longhorns, he hit a single.

Schwalbach, who has played in seven games, two of which are starts, has three hits. He has driven home three runs and scored twice. Kansas State is 20-10 overall and 7-5 in the Big 12 Conference.

Mason Carlisle (Woodstock North), a North Park University senior lefty, has worked 1 2/3 innings this year. He has allowed one earned run on three hits. He has walked two and fanned one. He does not have any wins, losses or saves. North Park is 19-8 overall and 8-1 in the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin. They currently lead the CCIW. Illinois Wesleyan is in second in the league with an 8-3 mark.

TRACK & FIELD

Ryan Jones (Marian Central Catholic) finished 10th in the 5,000-meter

WNHS boys tennis rebuilding, growing

By Julian Senn-Raemont NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Coach Bartholomey Zadlo returns to head the boys varsity tennis team at Woodstock North. This season opened with a close three-set loss between the number one singles player, Ben Lagerhausen, and the number one player from Hampshire. Despite the tough defeat, Coach Z says Ben has “shown strong growth” and is looking “to capitalize on the work he put in during off-season”.

Top Thunder newcomer, sophomore Jude Suay, plays his first full season as a varsity starter.

Last year ended with a few close chances to send players to the state tournament, but losses prevented them in a difficult sectionals round.

Ben Lagerhausen is the sole varsity returning starter this year with a lot of JV talent moving up to join him. Additionally, Coach Z assures that there are many athletic freshmen who “take instruction well”.

Jude Suay, a returning sophomore, has shown strong leadership potential for his first full season as a varsity starter.

“Other than that,” Coach Z says, “we have Zachariah Vasquez and Alex Flores playing our number one doubles”. The pair is relatively new to playing with one another but have shown exciting flashes during early practices. They have strong power at baseline and the ability to finish at the net.

Catch the Thunder on their home courts next at 4:30 p.m., April 18 and 19, when they face Johnsburg and Lakes Community High School.

INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY KEN FARVER

COLLEGE

Continued from Page 36

run at the Jim Vargo Invitational. The University of Illinois-Springfield finished in 15 minutes, 1.18 seconds. The Marengo native’s time is the ninth-best in the Great Lakes Valley Conference.

Reagan Kelly (Marian Central Catholic), a Butler University sprinter, finished second in the 400meter dash at the Miami Universityhosted Blizzard Buster. It was held in Oxford, Ohio. Kelly finished the race in 1:00.38. The Woodstock resident took fourth in the 200-meter dash, breaking the tape at :26.42. At the Jim Vargo Invitational, which was hosted by Bellarmine University in Louisville, Kentucky, Kelly took 15th in the 200-meter dash. She ran :26.48. Neither meet was scored on a team level.

Jacob McConnell (Woodstock North) finished in the top five in two different throwing events at the Rex Foster Twilight, which was hosted by the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and held at the Rex Foster Track in Whitewater, Wisconsin. The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point sophomore threw 152 feet, 11 inches in the hammer throw to take third. In the discus, McConnell finished fifth with a throw of 135-8.

Adam Zinn (Woodstock North) and Aiden Schleutermann (Woodstock), also Wiscconsin-Stevens Point track athletes, also competed in the meet. Zinn took fourth in the

IN BRIEF

Local drill team to perform at Midwest Horse Fair

The MidWest Renegade Dare Devils, one of the three performance teams with the Woodstock-based MidWest Renegades Equestrian Drill Team, has been invited to perform Saturday, April 20, at the PRCA rodeo, which will be

400-meter hurdles, running a :59.69. Schleutermann ran a time of 4:10.24. He was 25th. Wiscconsin-Stevens Point took second with 217.16 points. Wisconsin-Whitewater took first of the four teams, scoring 246.33 points.

Sophia Raymond (Woodstock) recorded a toss of 35.90 meters in the hammer throw at the Wheaton College Invitational, which was held at McCully Stadium in Wheaton. The Hope College thrower finished 17th overall. Hope took fourth of the 11 teams. They scored 106 points. The University of Chicago won the women’s title with 171 points.

SOFTBALL

Ellie Thurow (Woodstock North), a Coe College pitcher, improved to 9-2 on the year with a 9-1 victory over Cornell College. Thurow, who worked 5.0 innings, allowed one earned run on four hits. She fanned seven and walked one. Coe is 19-5 overall and 4-2 in the American Rivers Conference.

Megan Nixon (Woodstock), an Augustana College junior infielder, has played in 12 games this year. She has started 10 games. She has two hits, four runs scored, one RBI and one walk. Defensively, she has a .902 fielding percentage. She has made 18 putouts, 19 assisted putouts and four errors. Augustana is 14-8 overall and 5-3 in the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin.

MESSAGE FROM CHAMNESS

Today is April 17. If your son or daughter finished their career during the 2023-2024 school year, please let me know about them. I need to start contacting the colleges/universities to set up the summer.

In addition, it is not too late to get your spring names in the paper. We will have at least six more regular columns left, which will run us to May 29 or June 5, if I need to take a week off to help with the state track finals on the boys or girls level. If you want to make sure your son/daughter is on my list put “Woodstock Independent” in the subject line and e-mail me (Dan62801@aol.com).

In both the case of the athletes that will be eligible for the career completion articles and the regular columns, I will need the name of the athlete, the former high school or town of residence, the college/university they are attending and of course, the sport they are playing.

I will remind everyone of the two rules to be included in this column. One of the rules is the athlete needs to be a member of an intercollegiate team, meaning their chosen college/ university suits up against other schools. Secondly, the athlete needs to be a resident of a town or a graduate of a school normally covered in The Woodstock Independent

Dan Chamness writes The College Report for The Independent.

NN SCOREBOARD NN

BASEBALL

■ April 8 - Woodstock North (1-6-1) defeated Johnsburg (0-8) 3-2.

■ April 8 - Marian (4-5) fell to Bishop McNamara (9-2) 14-4.

■ April 8 - Woodstock (3-6) defeated Richmond-Burton (11-3) 9-4.

■ April 9 - Marian (4-6) fell to Bishop McNamara (10-2) 8-1.

■ April 10 - Woodstock North (2-6-1) defeated Johnsburg (0-9) 9-6.

■ April 10 - Woodstock (4-6) defeated Richmond-Burton (11-4) 8-7.

■ April 11. Marian (4-7) fell to Schaumburg (10-2) 12-2.

■ April 11 - Woodstock North (2-7-1) fell to Hampshire (8-2) 15-0.

■ April 11 - Woodstock (4-7) fell to St. Edward (3-6) 8-5.

■ April 12 - Marian (4-8) fell to Chicago Christian (8-5) 22-11.

■ April 13 - Woodstock (4-8) fell to Lakes (11-3) 12-2.

■ April 13 - Marian (4-9) fell to McHenry (11-3) 6-0.

■ April 13 - Marian (4-10) fell to McHenry (12-3) 16-1.

■ April 13 - Woodstock North (2-8-1) fell to Sycamore (9-0) 18-8.

■ April 13 - Woodstock North (2-9-1) fell to Sycamore (10-0) 13-8.

SOFTBALL

■ April 8 - Woodstock (0-5-1) fell to Richmond-Burton (8-1) 13-7.

■ April 8 - Woodstock North (4-5) defeated Johnsburg (0-6) 11-1.

■ April 9 - Woodstock (5-5) defeated H arvard (1-5) 8-0.

■ April 9 - Woodstock (0-6-1) fell to Plano (1-8) 21-3.

presented at the Midwest Horse Fair, Madison, Wis.

The Dare Devils are a high performance team that combines the precision of drill and the acrobatic flare of trick riding. Riders range from 16 to 30+.

In addition to the Saturday rodeo appearance, the team will also be performing at 2 p.m. Friday, April 19, and

at 3:50 p.m. Sunday, April 21, at the three-day horse fair. Team members and horses will be on site all weekend at the horse fair.

The team is coached by Nora Furlano and Lisa Hamiel. Riders include: Furlano, Lacie Hamiel, Gaelyn Marsala, Jacklyn Markovitz, Hailey Abraham, Emily Abraham and Charlie Groza.

■ April 10 - Marian (4-5) defeated St. Edward (0-4) 12-0.

■ April 10 - Marian (4-6) fell to St. Edward (1-4) 5-3.

■ April 11 - Marian (4-7) fell to Lakes (4-4) 2-1.

■ April 11 - Woodstock (0-7-1) fell to Sandwich (7-2) 12-0.

■ April 11 - Woodstock North (6-5) defeated Richmond-Burton (10-2) 4-3.

■ April 13 - Marian (5-7) defeated Timothy Christian (2-2) 5-1.

■ April 13 - Marian (5-8) fell to Timothy Christian (3-2) 10-5.

GIRLS SOCCER

■ April 8 - Marian (2-1-1) defeated Cristo Rey St. Martin (0-6) 6-0.

■ April 8 - Woodstock (3-4-1) defeated Harlem (3-4) 3-2.

■ April 9 - Marian (3-1-1) defeated Chicago Christian (1-9) 9-1.

■ April 10 - Woodstock (4-4-1) defeated Plano (1-8) 9-0.

■ April 10 - Woodstock North (3-5) defeated Harvard (1-6-2) 4-0.

■ April 11 - Woodstock North (3-6) fell to Burlington Central (3-5-2) 9-0.

■ April 11 - Marian (3-2-1) fell to Timothy Christian (4-2) 4-2.

■ April 11 - Woodstock (5-4-1) defeated Marengo (2-8-1) 4-0.

■ April 13 - Woodstock (6-4-1) defeated Thornwood (3-5) 6-0.

■ April 13 - Woodstock (7-4-1) defeated Back of the Yards College Prep (7-1) 5-1.

BOYS TENNIS

■ April 13 - Woodstock senior Cooper Pajich and Stewart Reuter placed 3rd in No. 2 doubles.

BOYS TRACK AND FIELD

■ April 9 - Woodstock defeated Richmond-Burton 85.2-59.8. Sophomore Caden Thompson won the 200m sprint (25.0 sec), with junior Dominic Vogel finishing second (25.2 sec). Woodstock senior Tyler Moon won the shot put (14.53m).

■ April 10 - Marian finished second at the CCC Meet #1, scoring 32.67 points. Freshman Wilson Jakubowicz got a PR and won the 200m (25.1 sec). Senior Andrew Dovidio got a PR and won the triple jump (11.68m).

■ April 11 - Woodstock won the Harvard, Woodstock, Woodstock North Triangle meet scoring 85 points. Senior Ishan Patel won the 400m (51.23 sec). Senior Bode Peterson finished second in discus (33.94m).

■ April 11 - Woodstock North finished second at the Harvard, Woodstock, Woodstock North Triangle meet, scoring 62 points. Senior John Suay got a PR and won in discus (34.63m). Adan Fajardo, Sean Mitchell, David Randecker, and George Kingos won the 4X200m with a PR (1:37.47 sec).

■ April 13 - Woodstock finished 7th at the B.A.T.E. Track and Field Invitational, scoring 33 points. Senior Tyler Moon got a PR and won the shot put (14.79m). Ishan Patel got a PR and finished second in the 1600m (4:24.02 sec).

CONCENTRATED EFFORT

■ April 13 - Woodstock North won the Belvidere Buccaneer Invitational, scoring 125 points. Senior Landan Creighton finished second in the high jump (1.72m). JR Fadahunsi, Sean Mitchell, David Randecker, George Kingos finished second in the 4X200 (1:36.31 sec).

■ April 13 - Marian finished 11th at the Belvidere Buccaneer Invitational, scoring 9 points. Senior Abel Arce finished 8th and got a PR in the 100m (12.10 sec).

GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD

■ April 9 - Woodstock defeated Richmond-Burton 95-39. Junior Sophia

LACROSSE BOSS

Mendoza won the long jump (4.66m). Junior Amina Idris won the 100m hurdles (17.5 sec).

■ April 10 - Marian finished third at the CCC Meet #1 scoring 28 points. Senior Amelia Reiche won the 100m sprint (13.3 sec). Junior Kaelyn Kempisty finished second in triple jump (8.63m).

■ April 11 - Woodstock North won the Harvard, Woodstock, Woodstock North

Triangle meet, scoring 82.5 points. Freshman Chloe Albrecht finished second in the pole vault (2.01m). Junior Maddie Mock won the 3200m (13:43.73 sec).

■ April 11 - Woodstock finished second at the Harvard, Woodstock, Woodstock North Triangle meet, scoring 66 points. Sophomore Sophie Sarabia got a PR and won the 400m (1:07.75 sec). Woodstock got a PR and won the 4X100 with Faith Smith, Yaxiri Juarez, Corrine Bures, Micaela Chiappetta (54.37 sec).

■ April 13 - Woodstock won the Belvidere Buccaneer Invitational scoring 130 points. Woodstock got a PR and won the 4X800 with Sophie Sarabia, Brooke Kashmier, Mia Huicochea, and Brianna Crown. Senior Anna Crenshaw won the discus (30.55m).

■ April 13 - Woodstock North finished second at the Belvidere Buccaneer Invitational, scoring 111 points. Senior Ashley Janeczko won the shot put (11.17m). Lauren Bieszczad, Jadyn Grismer, Bella Borta, and Chloe Albrecht won the 4X400 (4:42.56 sec)

LACROSSE

■ March 13 - Marian (0-1) fell to Carmel (1-0) 10-8.

■ March 14 - Marian (0-2) fell to Conant (1-0) 19-3.

■ March 19 - Marian (0-3) fell to IC Catholic Prep (1-0) 15-9.

■ April 8 - Marian (0-4) fell to CaryGrove (3-1) 15-3.

■ April 12 - Marian (1-4) defeated Kaneland in overtime (3-3) 10-9.

INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY KEN FARVER Woodstock North junior Brenna McConnell is the picture of concentration as she puts the shot April 9.

Marian Central Catholic senior attacker Michael Lange plays at home April 9.

Area high school figure skaters put in strong sectional performances

Four Woodstock students competed in the U.S. Figure Skating Midwestern and Pacific Coast Section High School Final April 13-14, at the Robert Crown Ice Arena.

WHS freshman Shylah Smith placed third in Novice Women Short and earned team gold for Northwest Gold High School Figure Skating Team.

Woodstock home-schooled student Rain Connor, freshman, earned silver in Preliminary Girls and team silver for Northwest Gold High School Figure Skating Team.

Woodstock home-schooled student Reese Connor, junior, earned gold in solo pattern dance, and her Northwest Gold High School Figure Skating Team placed fifth.

Woodstock home-schooled student Miabella Carzoli, senior, earned gold in open Juvenile Women and her Northwest Gold High School Figure Skating Team also placed fifth.

Woodstock High School freshman Shylah Smith skated her way to an individual bronze medal at the Midwestern and Pacific Coast High School Figure Skating Sectionals held at Robert Crown Ice Arena in Evanston. The following day she earned gold with her Northwest Gold High Team.

Miabella Carzoli, homeschooled senior from Woodstock, skated for gold in her Open Juvenile Women short program. Her Northwest Gold Intermediate Team placed fifth overall and competed against teams from as far away as California.

Reese Connor, homeschooled junior, took home gold in solo pattern dance.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Emma Weber - Girls Track & Field

Emma Weber, a senior at Marian Central Catholic High School, is a 4-year track athlete. With more than 60 percent underclassmen on the team, Emma has taken a key leadership role this season. She leads warm-ups, demonstrates drills that are new to the freshmen and coordinates team participation for getting out gear and getting it set up.

Even with an after-school job, she schedules work around practice as much as possible and lets the coaches know in advance if she needs to miss practice.

She’s taught the underclassmen that it’s okay to make mistakes and demonstrated what it means to lead and to be a Marian student athlete.

Congratulations Athlete of the Week!

–Tricia Carzoli

INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY TRICIA CARZOLI