Woodstock Independent 5/1/24

I NDEPENDENT The Woodstock

SCHOOLS

Meet WHS prom court and enjoy prom candids

COMMUNITY

A ‘Mystery Tour’ visits Woodstock and Willey

The Woodstock Independent 671 E. Calhoun St., Woodstock, IL 60098

Phone: 815-338-8040

Fax: 815-338-8177

Thewoodstock independent.com

Budget includes two tax bumps and spending exceeds revenue by $3.3M

By Eileen Millard NEWS@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

The Woodstock City Council approved the budget for Fiscal Year 2024/2025 at the April 16 meeting. Expenditures of $78.7 million exceed projected revenue of $75.4 million by

$3.3 million, and two tax increases were included.

Tax and rate increases

The first increase is a 4.25 percent raise in Woodstock property taxes, the third year in a row with an increase after 10 years of no increases.

MARKET TO MOVE

The second increase is a 12.5 percent hike in water/sewer rates, more than double the average increase in the last 10 years. Longrange, big-ticket items were listed as the main reason for the large

Tom Anderson of Tom’s Backyard Garden chats with a customer during the final indoor Woodstock Farmers Market April 27 at the McHenry County Fairgrounds. The market will resume Saturday, May 4, on the Woodstock Square.

City still seeking public input for parks

By Eileen Millard NEWS@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

About 45 Woodstock residents

gathered in the Woodstock Opera House Community Room on April 25 for a public input session about improving Woodstock parks. The meeting was part of the information gathering the city is conducting this year for updating and revising the Parks Master Plan. An online survey is

open through May 3 for residents to give input (see QR code on page 2) and at least one more public meeting is planned to talk specifically about the Park in the Square.

The meeting was presented by

PARKS

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Woodstock city staff and Design Workshop, a consultant hired to help with planning and gathering public input. People at the meeting gathered in small groups around tables that displayed printed enlargements of park maps. Attendees wrote comments on the maps and also used stickers with images that covered a wide variety of topics including Safety, Maintenance, Obstruction, ADA Accessibility, Playgrounds, Walking Paths, Pickleball Courts and Off-leash Dog Parks.

Design Workshop staff gave a presentation with a quick overview of the park planning process including considerations like equity, access, natural resources, and investment.

Thoughtful feedback

After the presentation was done and attendees had marked their comments, ideas, and wishes on the maps, each table gave a summary of their group’s discussion. Their input showed a deep knowledge of city parks including layouts, access, sporting event

BUDGET

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increase, including EPA-mandated projects such as lead service line replacement; phosphorus discharge removal from two wastewater treatment plants; and new regulations on sludge disposal. The upcoming relocation of water, sewer and stormwater utilities for the widening of Route 47 also adds to budget needs.

Revenue projections:

Main areas for the estimated $75.4 million in projected revenue include $17.1 million from General Obligation bonds for large-scale infrastructure projects such as street improvements. Grant proceeds of $3.9 million are expected toward Opera House renovations; downtown improvements; recreation center renovations; Raffel Road resurfacing; a Metra warming shelter; and the Emricson Park Intergenerational Playground.

Revenue will also include city income tax; cannabis tax collections; and use taxes, such as taxes collected on out-of-state online purchases.

Expenditures

Expenditures of $78.7 million for the new budget year include $5.4 million toward public facilities projects such as Opera House

The online parks public survey is open through May 3 to weigh in on wishes and priorities for Woodstock park planning.

needs, and other opportunities the parks offered. A common request for many of the parks was to have better parking, lighting, and washroom availability. A need for marked street crossings was also brought up as a safety concern.

renovation, secondary recreation center acquisition and renovation of the existing Recreation Center. $3.7 million will go toward water and sewer projects and $1 million will go to increased salaries and benefits for the city workforce

Public Safety spending

One additional Woodstock Police officer will be hired, bringing the police force total to 41. The police department will also be completing its assessment for the Illinois Law Enforcement Accreditation Program. The budget also allows for the purchase of additional police vehicles and the activation of security cameras along the Main Street/Benton Avenue corridor leading to the Square.

Business attraction and retention

The New Business Registration program will receive funding, as well as projects such as downtown electronic kiosks for real-time updates on events and programming around the Square. Expanded wayfinding is also on the list, and the city will also expand the Business Incubator program. TIF funds will be used on streetscaping along Benton Street in advance of the new University Center at MCC in Woodstock opening.

Some creative suggestions

Attendees had the chance to reimagine parks and discuss new features to add. These included adding public sculpture gardens, dog parks, community gardens, connectivity between parks, and permanent game-playing features such as tables with built-in gameboards for playing checkers or chess.

Pete Riis, who is also on the Parks and Recreation Commission, talked about the need for removing undergrowth at the Silver Creek Conservation Area and for mosquito abatement. “That’s where mosquitoes come to live in the summer,” he said. A request was also made for one of the sports parks to have some kind of indoor facility for teams to practice in the winter.

Separate Park in the Square meeting

Due to a strong interest shown by residents about changes to the Park in the Square, a separate public meeting will be held on that topic at a future date. Woodstock Executive Director of Operations Christina Betz was at the meeting and said that the location of prominent structures was a subject of

Springfield trip for more Route 47 funding

At the council meeting, Mayor Mike Turner said that he and City Manager Roscoe Stelford will be in Springfield at the end of April, attempting to bring back more funding for Woodstock’s share of the Route 47 expansion project.

Quality of life

On the to-do list for 2024/2025 are projects such as the Emricson Park Intergenerational Inclusive Playground and the Splashpad at the Aquatic Center. Pickleball and basketball courts at Emricson and Olson parks will also be completed, as well as downtown landscaping and Park in the Square renovations.

A project for an outdoor seating area at the Woodstock Public Library is also on the list.

Milestones reached in Fiscal Year 2023//2024

Stats for the 2023/2024 fiscal year include:

• 26 new businesses

•195 new jobs created

• An estimated $34.5 million in new business investment, including: Shay Labs; Wing Stop; The Homestead Antiques; Sweet Reds Patisserie; Mary’s Mexican Grill; Pizza Hut; Rocket Fizz; Gerber Collision and

Glass; Six Labs; Astri Aura; Tropical Smoothie Cafe; Dukes Inferno; Traction Sports Flooring; Aris Yoga.

Economic info:

The city’s median household income was listed as $82,287, higher than the state MHI of $76,708. Woodstock’s unemployment rate was 3.9 percent, lower than the Illinois rate of 4.2 percent.

The total workforce in Woodstock increased by approximately 300 new local employees. The poverty rate for fiscal year 2023/2024 was 8.7%, down from 10.1 percent in fiscal year 2021/2022.

Die Cast and Metra

Progress on the Die Cast site in the last fiscal year included a formal redevelopment agreement for a 70-unit senior independent living facility, with construction possibly starting in 2024 if final OKs are received. A second project for a 153unit senior assisted living facility could follow in 2025, and plans for a third building are expected to progress in 2025.

Work is ongoing to relocate the Metra railyards from Barrington and Crystal Lake to the west of Woodstock to improve train service and attract commuters

Note: the full 602-page budget proposal is on the city’s website, woodstockil.gov. Go to financial reports on the homepage.

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY EILEEN MILLARD

Participants gather around park maps to write in comments and place stickers indicating needed improvements

Continued from PREVIOUS page

great concern. She said that the Civil War memorial statue will definitely remain in its place and that the Spring House will also remain at its present location after it is rebuilt because of structural needs. However, she added that discussion is still ongoing as to the Bandstand remaining in its current location after it is taken apart for major rebuilding due to structural and water drainage issues.

Parked car at Emricson hits Dream Field dugout

Three children injured

The Woodstock Police Department responded to a traffic crash at 9:43 a.m. Saturday, April 27, at Dream Field in Emricson Park.

Upon arrival, officers located a green Toyota Sienna minivan that had left its parking spot, rolled down the hill and impacted the first base side of the dugout with driver side airbag deployment. Fortunately, the vehicle only struck property.

Four occupants were in the vehicle at the time of the crash, ranging in age from 12 to 13-yearsold. Three of the four children were transported to the hospital as a precaution. One suffered a laceration to the leg.

Based on occupant statements, it is believed that the vehicle was accidently slipped into drive when one of the children was attempting

to adjust the radio, resulting in the vehicle moving forward, down the hill, and into the concrete dugout. No one in the area reported hearing the vehicle running.

The parents of the children, and owners of the vehicle, were

watching a WHS vs. Hampshire high school baseball game at the time. All player parents were notified of the incident.

The Hampshire team was in the first base side dugout, but was unharmed. No citations were issued.

COURTESY PHOTO

Bystanders look on after a van rolled into baseball dugout.

OBITUARIES

Ruth Ann Hunt, 84

Ruth Ann Hunt (nee Sherman) passed away on April 23, 2024, in Barrington, IL at the age of 84. Ruth was born on July 27, 1939 on a farm on McConnell Road in Woodstock to Floyd and Hazel (Thompson) Sherman.

by her brother, William Urch, and several sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents and adoptive parents; her husband, Ralph; daughter, Kristy, and son, Craig; a granddaughter, Rachel Markham; sisters, Jean and Evelyn, and brothers, Glenn, Harold and Jim.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the First Presbyterian Church, 2018 N. Rt. 47 in Woodstock. Visitation will take place from 12:30 pm until the 2:00 pm Memorial Service celebrated by Rev. Eric Corbin.

She was the fifth child in the family. At the age of six, Ruth’s mother tragically passed away from polio, and her father, unable to care for all the children, sent them to different homes. Ruth went to live with Lloyd and Edith Kretchmer. She attended Clay Street School for primary education and later graduated from Woodstock High School.

Ruth Ann Hunt

Ruth met the love of her life, Ralph Hunt, in high school, and they were married on March 3, 1957. They enjoyed 55 years together before his passing. They were blessed with three children, Lori, Kristy, and Craig. Ruth dedicated 43 years of her career to Medicare billing at Memorial Hospital in Woodstock, where she formed lasting friendships.

Ruth was a devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church of Woodstock, where she found solace and community. She cherished her TLC (tender loving care) monthly church meetings and enjoyed hosting family gatherings during the holidays, showcasing her talent for cooking, especially her famous chocolate chip and Christmas cookies. She also cherished lunch outings with her former high school classmates and kept in touch with loved ones through Facebook.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Lori (Randy) Stock; grandchildren, Jason (Alexis) Stock, Wesley (Dr. Laura) Stock and Robert Markham as well as nine great-grandchildren. She is also survived

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Woodstock.

The Schneider Leucht Merwin Cooney Funeral home assisted the family with the arrangements.

For information, contact the funeral home at 815-338-1710 or visit www. slmcfh.com.

Sharon Ann (Van Riper) Reyes, 80

spent her days at Muskegon Senior High School, where she graduated in 1961. After high school, her childhood friend Susan (Johnson) Stroud helped convince Sharon to make the leap out of Muskegon and join her at nursing school in Chicago. Despite her nerves over leaving (and being accepted to the school), soon she was moving to the big city to attend Mt. Sinai Hospital School of Nursing. At nursing school, Sharon met her lifelong best friend, Carol Kaplan; the two soulsisters kept alive perpetual friendships with their whole gang of Mt. Sinai classmates, often through their 50-year involvement in the alumni association and the group’s annual weekend-long gatherings.

memories to be returned to anytime by all who partook. And the breadth of her commitment and affection for extended family was shown in another of Sharon’s devotions: the hundreds of birthday, holiday, anniversary and milestone cards she individually (and unfailingly) selected and sent every year to every cousin, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew, in-law and more. After raising her children, Sharon began to spend some of her days again at Leo’s side, like their Mt. Sinai years—serving as nurse (and sometimes receptionist) at his solo family medical practice on Judd St. in Woodstock. And even after her children had grown, she continued for many years to volunteer at the library of their school, Northwood (turned Mary Andres) Elementary—something she started in 1975.

Sharon Ann (Van Riper) Reyes

Born on September 11, 1943, in Muskegon, Michigan, to parents Marshall and Lois (Hall) Van Riper, Sharon Ann (Van Riper) Reyes began her childhood in a small home on Spring St. in Muskegon—a place where her parents also started their lifelong printing business, Lakeshore Printing, her mother sometimes taking wedding orders in the living room while watching little Sharon. She lived along Spring Street with her younger sister and brother, Daughn and Tim, until she was a teenager, when the family moved to a home on Lake Harbor Road in Norton Shores—a place where later Sharon and her husband, Leo, would bring their three children, Rodney, Wendy and Malissa, to spend Thanksgivings and summer days with their grandparents and cousins.

Before those children were a glint in Sharon’s eye, she spent her summer days walking the trail through Whitie’s Woods across the street from her Norton Shores’ home, trekking all the way past the sand dunes to swim in Lake Michigan— another place where later Sharon and Leo would bring their children and play with them in its white sands and clear water. Outside of those summers, she

After graduating nursing school in August of 1965, she continued to work at Mt. Sinai as a pediatric nurse—and it was there that Sharon met the love of her life, a young Filipino pediatrician, Leo, her husband for nearly 55 years.The two married on July 12, 1969, at St. Catherine of Siena Church in Oak Park, IL—in a beautiful ceremony and reception that Sharon meticulously planned. That same summer, the newlyweds moved overseas to Leo’s hometown, Cebu City, in the Philippines—where their first child, Rodney, would be born in June, 1970. Sharon and her young family returned to the U.S. in the summer of 1971, first moving to Forest Park, IL outside Chicago, then Woodstock, IL—to an apartment along St. John’s Rd., just down the street from the church that she walked to with Rodney for pre-school at Kids Unlimited. And it was at this apartment that Sharon welcomed their first daughter, Wendy, in May, 1972. Not long after Wendy was born, the family moved to a new home in the pine trees along Deerpath Road just outside of town—the home where Sharon would raise her family and live for the rest of her long, love-filled life.

In November 1974, they had their third child, Malissa, and Sharon’s lifelong passion and journey was now in full motion: a total dedication to being an extraordinary, unflappable mom and grandma. In that home on Deerpath Road, she provided her children (and later her grandchildren) with an endless bounty of love, affection, understanding, care and commitment. Year-after-year as her children grew, she was there for everything— supporting, preparing, consoling, cajoling, celebrating.

Along the way Sharon assiduously planned, recorded and journaled a lifetime of family events and activities—providing a decades-long handwritten trail of

She also continued another devoted passion that began in the early 1970s— cuddling and coddling a never-ending cadre of cats and dogs that she loved and cared for like children. (She shared her care with other animals too, making decades of donations to wildlife organizations, and providing dead-ofwinter provisions to her backyard wildlife.)

Between it all, Sharon and Leo have been dedicated travelers and tourists— going by plane, train and automobile (sometimes with a pop-up camper or a tent in the back) coast-to-coast, state-tostate, overseas to Europe and back to the Philippines. Some of her most precious times were the 40 years of annual, fullfamily (and extended family) summer trips to the beaches of the Atlantic Coast, first Assateague Island in Maryland, then the islands of North Carolina’s Outer Banks—making her final family trip to the shores of Rodanthe just last summer.

In her later years, nothing gave her greater joy than her seven granddaughters, Kylia, Julia, Vivienne, Erica, Camellia, Henrietta and Josephine. She was never happier than any moment when she was surrounded by her gaggle of girls—at Christmas, on the beach, around a table playing mahjong, or watching one of their many self-choreographed all-granddaughter dances. It was her grand and fortunate reward for all her years of devotion to her family: basking in the warm glow of her grandchildren’s love and happiness, laughing with her children, and sharing everything always with her cherished, lifelong partner in it all, Leo.

Her rich 80-year journey came to a close on April 17, 2024—at a hospital not far from her Deerpath Road home,

Continued on NEXT page

surrounded by the love of family, Sharon passed away peacefully in a bed beside her two daughters and Leo.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate her life on Sunday, June 23, 1 to 4 p.m. at the Woodstock Country Club, 10310 Country Club Rd. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Sharon’s name to: Helping Paws Animal Shelter, 2500 Harding Ln, Woodstock, IL 60098; Woodstock Rescue Squad, 435 E. Judd St., Woodstock, IL 60098; St. Joseph’s Indian School, 1301 N. Main St., Chamberlain, SD; New City Church, Naperville, IL https://newcity.life

Sharon was preceded in death by her mother, Lois Van Riper, and father, Marshall Van Riper. She is survived by husband Leo Reyes, son Rodney (Rebecca Mattie) Reyes, daughters Wendy (Shane) Waltmire and Malissa (Hamish Talbot) Reyes; grandchildren Kylia, Julia and Erica Waltmire, Vivienne and Camellia Reyes, and Henrietta and Josephine Talbot; sister Daughn (Ken) Forbes, and brother Timothy (Pat) Van Riper; and her loyal canine companion, Winston.

Email obituaries to pr@ thewoodstockindependent.com.

PUBLIC SAFETY LOG

Woodstock Police Department

■ Timothy K. Jackson, 29, Bull Valley, was arrested on April 15 at Country Club and Eastwood Drive on charges of criminal damage to property. Cited with notice to appear. Court date May 2.

■ Juveniles (2), 15, Union/ Woodstock, were arrested on April 16 at Madison and Church streets on charges of breaking curfew and possession of alcohol by a minor. Cited and released to parents. Court date May 9.

■ Belen G. Estrada, 29, Woodstock, was arrested on April 18 at Pleasant Street on charges of animal bite to person. Cited and released. Court date May 9.

■ Gregory J. Rogers, 29, Milwaukee, was arrested on April 19 at Eastwood drive on charges of driving with suspended license and speeding. Released on notice to appear. Court date May 23.

■ Maricruz Delacruz, 32, Woodstock, was arrested on April 19 at Jefferson Street and Jackson Street on

charges of possession of a controlled substance, possession of cannabis (driver), and operating a vehicle with suspended registration. Released on notice to appear. Court date April 26.

■ Tremaine Oden, 45, Woodstock, was arrested on April 20 at St. Johns Road on charges of fleeing and eluding. Released on notice to appear. Court date June 6.

■ Sarah L. Nazario, 35, Chicago, was arrested on April 21 at Church Street on charges of urinating/defecating in public. Cited and released. Court date May 9.

■ Juan Lopez Puente, 50, Chicago, was arrested on April 21 at Irving Avenue and Route 47 on charges of DUI, operating an uninsured vehicle, and improper lane usage. Released on notice to appear. Court date May 9.

■ Michael C. Morales, 21, Woodstock, was arrested on April 23 at McHenry Avenue on charges of driving with a suspended license and disregarding a stop sign. Released on notice to appear. Court date June 6.

Dorr

Township to talk building replacement at May 4 open house

Dorr Township Highway Operations will be hosting an Open House from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 4, at 12322 Davis Road.

The township is planning to replace the current pole barn with two preengineered steel buildings. They will complete the project started in 2012 with the construction of three other buildings. This phase of the project was postponed until funding was accumulated to finance the project.

Highway operations will be more cost-effective with more energy efficient buildings, and management of the equipment will be streamlined as vehicles will not need to be transferred from one building to the next for repairs. In addition, staff work environment will be better.

For more information, contact Highway Commissioner John Fuller at 815338-1060 or Supervisor Sue Brokaw, 815-338-1025.

PICTURE THIS

Join local historian and McHenry County cemetery expert Trudie Dryer as she takes guests on a walking tour of Oakland Cemetery at 9 a.m. May 18, where you will revisit the lives of Civil War soldiers and discuss the lives of some of those interred.

The cemetery is located at 13707 W. Jackson St., Woodstock. Cost is $10. Preregistration is required. Visit gothistory.org to register.

Lifelong Woodstock fireman Walter Parker, is pictured in 1974 with three sons who were also firemen Pictured (from left) are: Walter, Peter and Tom. Walter’s oldest son, Phil, is behind the wheel.

Don Peasley Photo Collection, McHenry County Historical Society

Woodstock, IL • 1987

Making Woodstock more ‘attractive’

Making Woodstock more “attractive” has been a common theme of late – not attractive in the commonly used sense, like an A-list movie star, but in the literal sense of the word: “having beneficial qualities or features that induce someone to accept what is being offered.”

While planning for the future is an ongoing activity, a lot of major projects are either in motion or starting up this year with attraction built in. Whether it’s attracting good teachers, new residents, new businesses, more visitors, more students or more commuters, it’s clear

» YOUR VIEW

What’s Happening in Woodstock: Water Hikes

I am increasingly concerned about the financial decisions Mayor Turner and the City Council are making for City of Woodstock residents.

I was surprised to learn that the Mayor and City Council members passed a 12.5% hike in Woodstock residents water bills to begin May 1 on a consent agenda, which means there was no discussion regarding the decision during its April 16 Council meeting when the vote was taken. Those discussions—including the public hearing on the FY24/25 budget—were held earlier during two Monday afternoon Council workshops when most Woodstock residents were unavailable to comment.

that we are out to get folks to make the trip to Woodstock.

The city council recently passed Woodstock’s annual budget, full of projects that will attract. District 200 just approved a five-year teacher contract with the goal of attracting and retaining teachers in a time of teacher shortages. And a short time ago, Woodstock paved the way to add 320 new homes in the Lennar Riverwoods development to attract new homeowners in a time of housing shortages.

Just look at some of the bigticket items in the mix and you’ll see

The water rate increase is 9% higher than the nation’s current annual inflation rate of 3.5%, and up significantly from the rate increase of cities surveyed in the most recent U.S. Municipal Water & Sewer Annual Utility Rate Index. Over the past 12 years, combined water and sewer bills on average increased 4.2% annually, the study showed.

Among the reasons cited by the City of Woodstock for raising fees was an increased use of water saving toilets and shower heads by residents, which reduced the city’s water revenues. So, sustainability minded residents are being penalized for conserving water. What’s particularly concerning about the Mayor’s and Council members’ approval is that it comes on the heels of the abrupt closure of the Public House, a Woodstock restaurant

attraction all over:

• Widening Route 47 to attract visitors with a better highway experience

• Metra railyard relocation project to attract commuters with an improved train schedule

• Updating the Opera House, the Square and the downtown area to attract tourists

• Updating the Parks Master Plan to attract and retain residents in coming years

• First-of-its-kind Emricson Park Intergenerational Inclusive Playground as a model for other parks

subsidized by the city. It turns out that I along with every other Woodstock resident is in the restaurant business.

According to the real estate listing for the Public House, the City of Woodstock/Woodstock residents own 42 pieces of restaurant equipment. Of that, half is brand-new and includes bar sinks and coolers, commercial dishwashers, walk-in freezers, refrigerators, broilers, and the list goes on.

These are just two examples of how the Mayor and Council are managing the city’s finances. For me, it raises an important question: Who is the City Council representing, the residents or themselves?

As a longtime Woodstock resident, I care deeply about the city. If you care about Woodstock, I urge you to pay close attention to how the Council is

in the county

• University Center at MCC in Woodstock to attract students with four new universities and degree programs without a long commute

We know Woodstock has always had the intrinsic attraction of its history, rich cultural scene, sense of community, relaxed pace and better quality of life than found in bigger cities. The near future will be a turning point in adding to that draw by attracting new growth to stave off stagnation and keep us vibrant. It will be an interesting ride.

spending your money.

Christine Stebbins Woodstock

Celebrating nurses during National Nurses Week

On behalf of Mercyhealth, I would like to express my gratitude to our 1,861 nurses during National Nurses Week, May 6-12.

These selfless individuals are the heart and soul of our organization, providing compassionate care, advocacy and support to patients and their families, often during very difficult times. Their expertise, empathy and professionalism make a lasting impact in the lives of those they serve. Whether it’s administering

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Making hometown history

At a recent staff meeting we reflected on the 37th anniversary of the first week of publishing The Woodstock Independent by looking through the first copy of the paper, the April 23, 1987 issue.

That led to perusing the entire bound copy of 1987. We looked at what was in the news in those early issues, found familiar businesses who still advertise with us, and we marveled at the prices of things from real estate to food.

And we found familiar faces. Our publisher, Rebecca McDaniel, identified several family members and friends among those pages which is only natural since she grew up in Woodstock and has a lot of immediate and extended family in the community. But I found several familiar faces and places as well, which was a bit of a surprise, as I am not a Woodstock native.

I grew up about 30 miles south of Woodstock in unincorporated St. Charles, near the tiny berg of Wasco. I will always think of that community as my home since it holds my history – it’s where I was born, attended grade school, graduated high school, and even got married. I lived in the same house my entire childhood and young adult life, only changing my zip code temporarily while in college, where I met my husband-to-be.

Since I came into the relationship

Continued from Previous page medications, comforting a frightened patient, or advocating for those in need, their commitment to excellence is exceptional.

During National Nurses Week, please join me in celebrating the outstanding nursing professionals in our community for their dedication and devotion to the care of others. We see their passion to comfort and desire to care, and are humbled to work alongside them every day.

Kara Sankey Mercyhealth Chief Nursing Officer, Vice President of Operations

with a horse, we found a fixer-upper in rural Woodstock where we moved following our wedding in 1985, just two years before Cheryl Wormley and Denise Graff Ponstein launched The Independent.

Wanting to learn more about our new community, we looked at everything that came in our mail.

Our driveway had an orange paper box for The Sentinel, but I don’t remember that we ever subscribed.

Sandy Kucharski Declarations

For a brief stint we received a free circulation paper called the The Star and finally we started receiving the total market edition of The Woodstock Independent, just like the one that is still sent out each month. I’ll be honest; money was tight and we didn’t subscribe right away, but eventually I noticed a special offer and I wrote a check to officially subscribe and receive the paper each week.

A new chapter

If I searched back about 40 years and looked through old issues of the St. Charles Chronicle, I’m sure I’d find familiar names and faces, but if I looked now, I’m pretty sure I’d only see strangers and vague remnants of

Lennar decision goes against commission, study

A commission on this development voted no, correct? A study was done that said it was a bad idea, correct? Since the current mayor and city council are in favor of what the rest of Woodstock is not, it seems it would be appropriate to remove the mayor from office and have a new one appointed. Do you happen to know the proper procedure for doing this?

Jonathan Moore

815-236-4348

familiar places.

It occurred to me while I was paging through those old issues of The Independent, that my life story is here now.

I saw the businesses I became familiar with when I was a newlywed in a new town, navigating the joys and trials of running my own house.

I found photos of the church I joined because it reminded me of the congregation I grew up in, and I read about the old hospital where my two oldest children were born.

Looking through archived issues from the ‘90s, the frequency of memories chronicled in the pages of The Independent increased as my kids became involved locally in soccer, elementary school, Cub Scouts, and 4-H, to name a few.

Throughout the high school years with three 3-sport athletes who were also involved in music and more, it was not unusual to find someone in the paper nearly every week.

The pages of The Independent contain a scrapbook of some of the most precious memories of my life, and I’ll bet most people who live here find the same is true for them.

I still have a special place in my heart for my hometown of St. Charles, but my home is Woodstock, where I raised my family and cultivated their hometown history.

Sandy Kucharski is an associate editor at The Woodstock Independent.

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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

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

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Woodstock High Prom

April 27, 2024

‘A night of magical memories’

Front row: John Canty, Jade Sanders, Keira Lively, and Jason Osborn

Back row: Kimberly Colin Estrada, Alejandro Arroyo, Keira Bogott, Lucas Rubio, Corine Bures, and Chase Wohlhart

INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY KEN FARVER

Andrew Ryan and Addy Walker

Kennedy Treliving and Alfredo Cabrera

Kimberly Colin Estrada and Alejandro Arroyo

Allie O’Brien, Keira Bogott, Trey Neuhart, and Brett Neuhart

Julia Cortejoso photographs Renee Schleutermann and Lily Novelle.

District 200 approves five-year contract for teachers

By Eileen Millard NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Five-year contract also approved for D-200 custodial

staff

The Woodstock District 200 school board voted at the April 23 meeting to approve a five-year contract for district teachers and a five-year contract for district custodial staff.

The unanimous vote will give teachers a five percent raise for the 2024-2025 school year; a 4.5% raise for the 2025-2026 school year; and a 4.25 percent raise for the 20262027 school year.

For the final two years of the contract, raises will be set according to the Consumer Price Index, with a starting point of 3.25 percent and a ceiling of 4.5 percent.

“Our team … worked with the teachers union throughout the winter, to come up with an agreement,” D-200 Superintendent Mike Moan said at the meeting. “It’s a five-year agreement … it’s going to keep us competitive in the county.” Moan spoke of nationwide teacher shortages and the need to attract good teachers. “So, for the work our teachers have done, we believe the compensation is fair and will allow us to stay competitive,” he said.

Custodial contract details

D-200 custodial workers also had a five-year contract approved, using the same salary increases approved for teachers. In addition, custodial staff will have a $300 attendance bonus available for each six-month period of perfect attendance. Uniform allowances were also increased from $200 to $450, along with other considerations.

GREAT GIFTS FOR GRADS, BY GRADS.

Our grads picked out the perfect gift for your grad. Stop in and pick it up!

Other school business

Woodstock North High School Junior Building Trades students Lincoln Dodge and Mason Nicolai were recognized for their work on a Community Service Project in a newly developed park area created through a collaboration between

the Land Conservancy of McHenry County, the Bull Valley Garden Club, and various donors. When project leaders asked D-200 for help making benches for the park, Dodge and Nicolai stepped up, with the help of Building Trades instructor Gerald Blohm and materials supplied by a donor. The result was six benches for the park. Blohm had praise for his students. “I am very proud, of not only the boys’ skill level … but also of their eagerness to serve their community.”

District 200 Staff Spotlight

In the continuing District 200 Staff Spotlight project, two staff members from Woodstock North High School were honored at the meeting: science teacher Jillian Barry and principal’s secretary Anne Panos. The board congratulated them and thanked them for their outstanding efforts on behalf of their students.

Alexandra Roske, a Woodstock North High School senior, is the daughter of Robin and Rob Roske, Woodstock.

The teacher who nominated her said Alexandra displays a genuine passion for learning, is a team player and treats her classmates with kindness and respect.

An honor roll student, she will be graduating with a Seal of Biliteracy. She is active in color guard, tutors in math, and is part of the thespian society, participating as crew for

Right on the Square!

Showcasing Woodstock youth talent

Four Woodstock students were among seven Woodstock Fine Arts Association scholarship winners

By Tricia Carzoli NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Since 1961, Woodstock Fine Arts Association has worked to support the arts.

From the Creative Living Speakers Series to children’s programs and beyond, the not-forprofit, all-volunteer organization brings life to the stage through performances, talks, and financial support.

This year, WFAA awarded seven recipients

a $2,000 scholarship and the opportunity to participate in the WFAA Talent Showcase on April 18 at the Woodstock Opera House.

Four of the seven recipients were from Woodstock high schools.

Emerich Parpart, a percussionist, is a senior at Woodstock North High School; Mackinzee Carpenter attends WNHS and plays the clarinet; Lucas Shoffner is a Woodstock High School senior and a jewelry artist who works at Studio D; and Maja Tryba is a senior at Marian Central

Catholic High School and studies classical dance. The scholarship is awarded to McHenry County high school seniors to encourage commitment to the arts.

“Seeing the winners on stage sharing their talents and dreams is an enriching and inspiring experience,” Kristi Moynihan, WFAA president, said. “Our community can take pride in the breadth and depth of the students’ talents, and it’s an honor for Woodstock Fine Arts Association to support them in their artistic journey.”

Mackinzee Carpenter, WNHS

Maja Tryba, Marian

INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY TRICIA CARZOLI

Lucas Shoffner, WHS

Emerich Parpart, WNHS

MCC buys bass clarinet through Woodstock teacher Grace C. Hajeck program fund

The McHenry County College Music Department recently purchased a bass clarinet for use in various ensembles using memorial funds provided by Grace C. Hajeck, a lifelong musician and educator.

The bass clarinet was purchased in August 2023 out of the provided program funds of $10,000 donated to the music department from Grace Hajeck upon her death in 2016.

In the early years of her career, Hajeck was an elementary music teacher in Crystal Lake as well as a church organist. After marrying Vernon Hajeck, she furthered her professional interests by taking a position as a special education teacher in Woodstock.

Upon her retirement from the public school system, Grace continued as a church organist and taught voice and piano part-time at MCC while also studying organ under instructor Pat Marks. Because there was no organ at the college,

students used a rented organ at a local church for their lessons. When an old pipe organ in Ohio became available, Grace donated the cost of its repair and installation, making MCC one of the few community colleges to own a pipe organ at that time. This was done by Grace as a memorial to her then late husband and her late parents, all of whom were avid music lovers.

To show their appreciation for Hajeck, the Music Department honored her memory in November 2017 by naming the Fall Concert for Band and Chorus the “Grace C. Hajeck Memorial Fall Concert.”

“In the past, our ability to field a full concert band was dependent on having a student with their own bass clarinet,” said Paige Lush, who leads MCC’s concert band.

“In that time, we frequently heard from students who had played bass clarinet in high school and wanted to continue at MCC but did not

SPRING REFRESH for

have their own instrument, as these expensive specialty instruments are usually provided by the high schools. Having our own bass clarinet now allows us to cover all musical parts, and most importantly helps us recruit more high school bass clarinetists.”

The Friends of McHenry County College Foundation has been working with the music department throughout to the years to find good uses for the funding. Remaining funds will be used by the music department as needed, including for instruments, sheet music, other needed equipment, conferences and seminars for music department staff and students, or guest musicians.

COURTESY PHOTO

The bass clarinet purchased with Grace C. Hajeck program funds is used in the MCC Concert Band, led by Paige Lush.

Transactions filed in the McHenry County Recorder’s Office April 1 to 2.

■ Residence at 2501 Mustang Trail, Woodstock, was sold by Ryan Hagen, Huntley, to Sue L. Kies, Woodstock, for $375,000.

■ Residence at 3111 Alden Road, Woodstock, was sold by Jose Avila, Woodstock, to Daniel L. Colman, Woodstock, for $930,000.

■ Apartment building at 760-766 Pleasant St., Woodstock, was sold by Becker Real Estate LLC, North Barrington, to Slobodan Tomovic, Gurnee, for $556,000.

■ Industrial building at 14400 Washington St., Woodstock, was sold by CTS Group of Companies LLC, Algonquin, to Rockbrook Properties LLC, Woodstock, for $2,650,000.

■ Residence at 2039 Greenview Drive, Woodstock, was sold by Terrence J. Tucker, Spring Hill, Fla., to Steve Chiakas, Woodstock, for $314,000.

■ Residence at 1239 Bunker St., Woodstock, was sold by Forethought Life Insurance Company, Salt Lake City, Utah, to MR Resources LLC, Huntley, for $242,500.

■ Residence at 200 Burbank Ave., Woodstock, was sold by Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Washington, D.C., to Jordan Dachroeden, Woodstock, for $337,000.

■ Residence at 1620 Bull Valley Drive, Woodstock, was sold by The Vincent N. Castillo and Victoria A. Marsik-Castillo Trust, Schaumburg, to Jose Avila, for $620,000.

Outdoor dining popping up all over

What diners can expect in outdoor options this season

By Susan W. Murray NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Residents who strolled or drove down Calhoun Street last week might have noticed the lights being strung and tables being set up on the cobblestone patio next to Antigua.

And on April 15, the barriers to block vehicular traffic went up on East Judd and Benton streets.

that wanted to offer outdoor dining have been required to secure a permit from the city. Seating on a public sidewalk or parkway runs 50 cents per square foot, while seating on a public street or over a parking space costs one dollar per square foot.

restricted to the restaurants only on Benton Street after a second arrest on a weapons-related charge on the street in less than two weeks.

The ban on bars offering outdoor dining continues this year, per Mayor Mike Turner.

Kim Keefe

All is in preparation for Woodstock’s outdoor dining season, which officially runs from April 15 to October 15, but is always subject to northern Illinois’ often fickle weather.

Permits and restrictions

For the second year, businesses

Last year, Woodstock’s Building and Zoning Director Joe Napolitano said that fees for sidewalk use ranged from $40.00 to $60.00. Fees for use of Benton Street ranged from $500.00 to $800.00.

The permits allow outdoor dining between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. on weekdays. The shutdown time is extended to midnight on weekends.

Last July, outdoor dining was

“I was concerned about the overall environment that had developed last summer,” Turner said.

The area needs to be better configured - more contained and better defined - if the bars are going to offer outdoor seating, he added.

Turner praised the restaurants, which this year will include D.C. Cobb’s, Oliver’s, and Pourhouse Bar and Grill, for doing a “great job” with outdoor dining.

Continued on NEXT page

INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY KEN FARVER

Mild temperatures on Saturday afternoon brought out early birds to the Benton Street outdoor dining area.

Turner said that he had informed the Benton Street bar owners that he was open to further discussion about offering outdoor seating, as long as they could come up with a different configuration for their spaces.

“Overall, outdoor dining and the lights enhance Benton Street. They give it a cool vibe and make it an inviting space. I want to see that area continue to develop.”

Wes Dicksin, owner of Oliver’s, said that his restaurant will have seven tables outside that will each seat four patrons. His restaurant is fully staffed, and the outdoor tables usually require one additional staff member during the dinner rush.

“The outdoor dining really increases my capacity,” Dicksin said.

Janeth Ramirez, co-owner of the Pourhouse Bar and Grill, said that her restaurant’s application to offer outdoor dining recently received approval from the city.

Ramirez hopes to have eight tables outside, with seating for four at each. She has already hired one additional staff member in anticipation of a busy warm-weather season and

anticipates needing to hire more.

Improvements coming?

Woodstock’s Economic Development Director Garrett Anderson said that the city has money in the budget to invest in the Benton Street outdoor dining area. Discussions are ongoing about where the money will go.

One possibility is to study the engineering required to bury the thicket of power lines that run to the area’s buildings. Another is to create permanent landscaping.

CSA FARM BOX

A third would be to extend the sidewalk on the west side of Benton Street as a permanent patio area, while allowing the lane of traffic that runs north to remain open.

Anderson said that there are pros and cons to closing down Benton between East Judd and Church streets versus leaving a lane open for cars to continue north on Benton to Church. This year, the northernmost block of Benton Street is closed to cars.

Anderson expects that Ethereal and Winestock will host music

events on weekend nights, closing Cass Street between Johnson and Throop.

“We’re happy to support that again this year,” Anderson said.

New operator needed

A sizable chunk of Woodstock’s outdoor dining space fronts the shuttered Public House in the Old Courthouse Center on Johnson Street.

Patrick West of Century 21 New Heritage West in East Dundee has the listing for the restaurant.

The price to purchase the business is $200,000, and the new owner would assume the monthly lease.

“We’re trying to find the right operator,” West said.

He has interviewed several prospects - some from Woodstock and some from neighboring towns.

Once West believes he has a restaurateur who is a good fit, the city will have to approve the new tenant.

“A weak operator would be a disaster for that restaurant,” West said. “We need someone with a good track record of owning, managing, and running restaurants.”

SPRING Plant Sale

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!

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER

A portion of Woodstock’s outdoor dining scene awaits a new restaurant operator in front of the Old Courthouse Center.

Groundhog Day revisited in April

‘Mystery tour’ drops in on Woodstock to see the Groundhog Day sites

By Susan W. Murray NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

For the 41 members of Southwest Tour and Travel’s spring mystery tour, the clue to one of their Day Two destinations was the movie chosen for their motoring entertainment.

As their bus rolled out of Prairie du Chien on the morning of April 23, “Groundhog Day” played on the coach’s TV screens.

And after stops at the Livsreise Norwegian Heritage Center in Stoughton, Wisconsin, and the Vintage Wings and Wheels Museum in Poplar Grove, the bus pulled up in front of the Woodstock Opera House for a tour of the venue, followed by a walkabout to take in the “Groundhog Day” filming sites.

The lure of a mystery tour

When the Beatles released the song “Magical Mystery Tour” in late 1967, the “mystery tour” in the title was a reference to something Paul McCartney and John Lennon remembered fondly from their childhoods. In England, between the 1940s and the 1970s, people could take a day trip on a bus or train to an unknown destination, possibly the seaside with a stop for lunch at an inn.

The songwriters inserted “magical” in the title to broadly hint at a distinctly 1960s type of trip not involving a motorized form of transportation.

While English mystery tours have gone by the wayside, Southwest Tour and Travel in Marshall, Minnesota, has adopted the concept for thriceyearly bus trips to destinations known only to the company that are planned out (and kept secret) a year in advance.

“People love them,” said Logan Pusillo, who works in Marshall as Southwest’s tour and travel coordinator.

INDEPENDENT

PHOTOS BY KEN FARVER

Members of Southwest Tour and Travel’s spring mystery tour listen to volunteer tour guide Doug Crane while Woodstock Willie photobombs the shot.

Volunteer tour guide Maggie Crane (back to camera) talks to members of the mystery tour in the Woodstock Opera House. Even Woodstock Willie, visible in the back, is interested.

Travelers depart from Marshall on a coach bus and are gone for three to nine days.

Those who sign on “like to tell people that they’re going on a mystery trip and then send pictures from where they are,” Pusillo said.

None of the mystery tours are built around a theme, in order to keep the participants guessing.

“Everybody likes to do something when they don’t know what’s coming,” said Lynn Gorder, who was visiting Woodstock from Pipestone, Minnesota. “It’s a little excitement in our old age.”

Indeed, Southwest’s mystery tours largely appeal to the senior population who have time to indulge their wanderlust, drawing customers from southern South Dakota and southern Minnesota.

Elvira and the missing book of French poetry

The group toured the Opera House, stopping in Stage Left and the community room before taking seats in the theater where the “Steel Magnolias” set was ready for its next performance.

Betsy Cosgray, the Opera House’ business operations manager, described the theater’s architecture and decoration before regaling the group with the legend of Elvira’s ghost.

Upon exiting the Opera House, tour attendees could stop for a photo op with Woodstock Willie before taking a modified or full tour of “Groundhog Day” filming sites with volunteer guides Doug and Maggie Crane.

As Maggie’s group stopped to take in the view of the Opera House from the center of the Square, she described how stuntman Rick LeFevour needed just one take to

See MYSTERY Page 17

Making life easier for people with disabilities

I’ve written so many columns about special needs issues that just feel heavy. The challenges facing disabled people and their families can be overwhelming to write about. I’m guessing it can feel that way to read about them, too.

This time, though, I want to share a more uplifting story about what happened at the City Council meeting on April 16. The outcome might make life just a little easier for people with disabilities and their caregivers. As reported in last week’s edition of The Independent, the council voted to include an adjustable, adult sized changing table at the soon to be built intergenerational inclusive playground.

private, and dignified manner.

The truth is most places lack a facility where a caregiver can change an adult diaper for someone with physical or developmental disabilities. That leaves few good options. Either a caregiver must do this on the floor of a public restroom, for example, without privacy and with uncertain cleanliness. Or as so often happens, the person with the disability stays home.

I admit that it didn’t occur to me to ask about an adult changing table until the very last minute. When I brought it up to the project planners, the first answer was: it’s too late. The budget is in. The plans are underway. Because of the nature of the grant that is funding the playground, deadlines could not be missed without jeopardizing the entire project.

adult-sized changing table in all newly constructed government and public buildings. Unfortunately, this bill is still in committee and may not make it out of the legislature this session.

But thanks to the hard work of Executive Director of Operations Christina Betz and her team, the inclusive playground in Woodstock will include an adult-sized changing table after all.

I understand that getting approval for such a basic human right as a clean and dignified place to use the bathroom isn’t something that should necessarily be celebrated. People with disabilities and their parents sometimes become accustomed to getting crumbs while others feast.

a complete stranger walked up to me to offer kind words about what happened. He said he came to the meeting simply to observe the process. “This was democracy in action!” he said with conviction, and I agreed. Then he disappeared down the stairs and out the door.

It might seem obvious that a playground designed to be inclusive for people of all ages and all abilities would also include a place where those people could have their toileting needs met in a clean,

I persisted. Couldn’t something be done? Could we really call a place “inclusive” if it didn’t also include a truly accessible bathroom? I wasn’t the only person in Illinois asking this question. A downstate mother of a disabled adult recently raised the same concern with her state senator. The result is SB 2908, named Sami’s Law, which would mandate an

What I’m celebrating isn’t just what happened, but also how it happened. People in charge of the project listened. They recognized their oversight and acted quickly and creatively to fix the problem. People in charge of approving the changes also listened and responded with empathy. Awareness was raised. Compromises were made. A solution was created. Everyone involved wanted to do the right thing.

As I left the council chambers,

I must admit, the whole experience was pretty inspiring. Of course, had the council voted no, I might have felt less positive about how things turned out. But right now, I am optimistic. Can Woodstock become an even more inclusive place where everyone knows they have value and that they belong? I’m confident it can. There’s still so much to be done to make life more accessible and equitable for people with disabilities in Illinois. But by approving the fully accessible restroom, and by doing so with a spirit of warmth and empathy, city leaders made an encouraging step in the right direction.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this happen.

Julie Peters and her husband, Kevin, former Woodstock residents, live in Twin Lakes, Wis., with their son, a young adult with fragile syndrome and autism.

INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY KEN FARVER

Local men strutted their stuff on the runway April 28 when Woodstock Professional and Business Women hosted their 2nd Annual EleMENts of Fashion Men’s Fashion Show at Oliver’s Ballroom.

Julie Peters Guest Column

Butch Schnulle sports Carhardtt workwear.

Kim Keefe and Brian Sager emceed the show.

Niklas, Florian, and Xaver (above) play Schafkopf, a Bavarian card game, on the SkyDeck in Willis Tower.

Werdenfels-Gymnasium students show off t-shirts they made in graphics class.

WHS student Noah Thornburg and Werdenfels-Gymnasium student Simon Rettinger stand on a dock at the Fox River in McHenry which was dyed green for St Patrick’s Day.

‘This group of students will stay in touch for years’

German exchange students return to Woodstock High School

By Jan Dovidio NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Woodstock High School German teacher Mallorie Leary and local families welcomed 14 exchange students from Germany for the first time in six years. German teacher Jack Walsdorf, who retired last May, began this program 20 years ago and provided guidance to Leary for this year’s exchange.

“I am so thankful that Jack has been here to help me through my first exchange and show me the ropes,” Leary said. “This program is possible due to the amazing WHS families who opened up their homes to the German students.”

The visitors attend school at the Werdenfels-Gymnasium (WG) from GarmishPartenkirchen, Bavaria, Germany. They were accompanied by instructors Tommy Kaufmann who teaches English and physical education, and Annett Wallman, an English and German teacher.

The WG students arrived on March 9, a day late due to a Lufthansa one day strike on their departure date. Walsdorf was amused by the German students’ reaction as they arrived in a classic American school bus, an unknown mode of transportation for them.

During the school day, the WG students could attend any WHS classes they wished.

“It was special for them to sit in Auto, Graphics, Photography and Psychology classes which they do not have in Germany,” Leary added. “After school we had activities like ‘bags,’ a scavenger hunt around the Square and a movie viewing of ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.’” Leary indicated that the exchange students enjoyed several Chicago experiences that included the Willis Tower Sky Deck, the Shedd Aquarium and the Museum of Science and Industry. They were impressed by the Chicago skyline as skyscrapers are seldom seen near their hometown.

The host families also treated their visitors

The German students were very excited to be able to ride in a yellow school bus. They do not exist in Germany.

with several first experiences like tasting cheese curds, visiting Chinatown, seeing the Fox River and the Chicago River dyed green, attending a professional hockey game, and trying a Chicago hot dog (which did not impress them!).

“I don’t think I ever have laughed harder in my life,” WHS Junior Maddi Scaman said while reminiscing about fun moments with her guest Lilli Rieger while shopping at big stores like Walmart and Sam’s Club.

The two week visit came to a close much too quickly for all students and families. “I’m sad it’s time for Simon Rettinger to go home,” WHS junior Noah Thorburg said. “It’s like my brother is moving out.”

“The most rewarding part for me was seeing all the new experiences my students had throughout the exchange,” Leary concluded. “It was wonderful to see them use their language skills, form new friendships and experience a culture other than their own first hand. I am confident this group of students will stay in touch for years to come.”

WNHS German teacher Anthony Kiesling and his students will host an exchange group in April. Students from WHS and WNHS will travel this July to stay with the exchange student they hosted and to attend their school. Both Leary and Kiesling are pleased that these exchanges resumed after a six-year delay.

COURTESY PHOTOS

PUZZLE PROMOTING

IN BRIEF

WPPC holds a 1-day native plant sale May 5 at MCC

More than 130 species of plants will be available at the Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee Native Plant Sale from noon to 3 p.m., Sunday, May 5, at McHenry County College commons, 8900 Hwy. 14.

The sale boasts native plants for every environment including: prairie, savanna, woodland, and wetlands, plus organic heirloom garden vegetables and herbs. Most prices vary from $4 to $9, and quantities may be limited.

For plant lists and more information, visit WPPC.org.

McHenry County’s Green Guide promotes recycling

Wondering where to recycle some of those items you’ve found in your annual spring cleaning? The 2024 McHenry County Green Guide, now available online and in print, features the latest information on recycling appliances, electronics, motor oil, batteries, Styrofoam, and more.

New in the 18th edition of the publication is a guide on recycling makeup, medicines and sharps, pet food bags, and I-PASS transponder disposal.

There are also guest articles from Ashley Lange, board member of the

Environmental Defenders of McHenry County, about the importance of the “Three R’s” (Reducing, Reusing, and Recycling) and Kelli Boeckmann, solid waste manager with the McHenry County Department of Health, about new legislation regarding paint collection.

All categories have been updated with the latest recycling information, including tips on recycling plastic film and bags, paint, aerosols, bulbs, and more. Readers will also find details on multiple county-wide electronics collections and shredding events.

At the time of printing, there is no household hazardous waste collection scheduled for McHenry County. The Sustainability Center or the McHenry County Health Department (www. mchenrycountyil.gov) is in charge of scheduling. In the meantime, other sources for household hazardous waste disposal in the area can be found on page 8 of the Green Guide.

There is also a listing of sustainabilityrelated events coming in 2024.

“It’s wonderful to discover and share new resources for our hard-to-recycle items,” said Kim Hankins, Director of the Sustainability Center at McHenry County College (MCC). “We’re honored to partner with local businesses, environmental groups, and municipalities to create the Green Guide as the go-to resource for recycling across our county.”

Ken Farver, The Woodstock Independent photographer, signs puzzles created from his photos around the Historic Woodstock Square, at Read Between the Lynes, on Saturday afternoon.

His puzzles sold out! Numerous patrons placed an order for puzzles and Ken will sign them before they are delivered to customers.

MYSTERY

Continued from Page 14

leap from the bell tower for the movie.

And as former director of the Woodstock Public Library, Maggie shared that the book of French poetry that Columbia Pictures borrowed from the library for several scenes was never returned, although, in what will come as a great relief for Columbia Pictures, the overdue fine has been capped at the cost of the book.

Visitors who were on a “mystery tour” from Marshall, Minnesota, pose with Woodstock Willie.

The Green Guide is available online at www.mchenry.edu/green, and a printed version can be requested by emailing sustainability@mchenry.edu. Printed copies will also be available at local municipalities, township offices, and libraries. A fully translated Spanish version is also available online and printed versions can be requested via email.

For more information about the Green Guide or Sustainability Center, visit www.mchenry.edu/green or emailsustainability@mchenry.edu.

The Masked Courthouse Singer visits Opera House

An interactive fundraiser, modeled after the popular television show “The Masked Courthouse Singer,” will come to the Woodstock Opera House Saturday, May 11.

Eight Woodstock voices will be masked up and ready to sing for the audience’s listening and guessing pleasure. Audience members can listen to samples of their singing, view their hilarious costumes, and then vote with dollars for their favorite singer.

Ticket cost is $20.

To order, visit https://www.etix. com/ticket/p/52148227/the-maskedcourthouse-singer-woodstockwoodstock-opera-house

Always hunting

After 90 minutes, the group climbed back aboard the bus, swinging by for a view of the Cherry Street Inn before heading out again to the unknown.

Mary Janssen of Castlewood, South Dakota, pronounced Woodstock, “amazing. It would be a nice place to live,” she said.

“There’s something about a town square,” said Patsy Johnson of Brooking, South Dakota, as the bus pulled away from the Opera House.

The day after the mystery tour’s stop in town, Pusillo shared in a phone call that Woodstock had been a big hit. Most of the tour members had watched “Groundhog Day”on the bus without knowing that the movie had been filmed in the Midwest.

“When they got [to Woodstock], it was a fun surprise,” Pusillo said.

Pusillo had planned the stop when he zoomed in on a map of areas around Chicago, where Day Three was partly consumed with a pizza tour of the city.

“We always have to find new things for them,” he said.

With Southwest’s Facebook page filling up with Woodstock photos, Pusillo said he’d like to add Woodstock to some of his company’s “normal” tours.

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER

Happenings

WALK

Spring Hollow Nature Preserve

1314 S. Fleming Road

11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

2

THURSDAY

SLC TRIVIA NIGHT - PUB TRIVIA USA

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m. woodstockoperahouse.com

3 FRIDAY

ART ON THE PRAIRIE

Soulful Prairies

4706 Alden Road

5 to 9 p.m.

NAME THAT TUNE

Fundraiser for Free Guitars for Future Stars

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

Game begins at 7:30 p.m.

$20 Cash prizes

4

SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square

8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org

Music: Karen Shook

DORR TOWNSHIP HIGHWAY OPERATIONS OPEN HOUSE

12322 Davis Road

10 a.m. to noon

815-338-1060

TLC SPRING WILDFLOWER

HEARTACHE TONIGHT

Woodstock Opera House

121 W. Van Buren St.

7:30 p.m.

$35 A seats. $25 B seats woodstockoperahouse.com

CHILL MURRAY COMEDY SHOW

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

8 to 10 p.m.

$15 online, $20 at the door

5 SUNDAY

STEVEN’S HOME FUNDRAISER YARD SALE AND PAINTINGS BY DIANE

To benefit Homeless Street Outreach

Woodstock Square Gazebo

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Stevens-Home.org

WILDFLOWER PRESERVATION AND PROPAGATION NATIVE PLANT SALE

McHenry County College 8900 Hwy. 14 Noon to 3 p.m, Info at thewppc.org

WOODSTOCK COMMUNITY CHOIR - I SEE COLORS

Woodstock Opera House

121 W. Van Buren St.

3 p.m. Free, donations welcome

woodstockoperahouse.com CRAFTS & COCKTAILS

Old Courthouse Center

101 N. Johnson St.

11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

woodstockil.gov

7 TUESDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

woodstockfarmersmarket.org

Music: ThingamaJig, W.T. Newton

WOODSTOCK CITY COUNCIL

Council Chambers, City Hall

121 W. Calhoun St.

7 p.m.

woodstockil.gov

8 WEDNESDAY

MCC SPRING PLANT SALE

McHenry County College 8900 Hwy. 14

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

9 THURSDAY

MCC SPRING PLANT SALE

McHenry County College 8900 Hwy. 14

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

SLC TRIVIA NIGHT - PUB TRIVIA USA

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m. woodstockoperahouse.com

10 FRIDAY

OPEN MIC NIGHT

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m.

To submit calendar items, email

To sign up, email keith@offsquaremusic.org

ACAPELLA ON THE SQUARE

Woodstock Opera House

121 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m.

$10 adults, $5 students woodstockoperahouse.com

11 SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

woodstockfarmersmarket.org

BLUE LOTUS VESAKHA DAY CELEBRATION AND PARADE

Blue Lotus Buddhist Temple

221 Dean St. 4 to 7 p.m.

YOUTH OPEN MIC NIGHT

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m.

$5

See event at woodstockoperahouse.com to sign up

THE MASKED COURTHOUSE SINGER

Woodstock Opera House

121 W. Van Buren St.

7:30 p.m.

$20 woodstockoperahouse.com

13 MONDAY

Resurrection Catholic Church

GENEALOGY RESEARCH ASSISTANCE

Woodstock Public Library

414 W. Judd St.

10 a.m.

Kishwaukee Trail Chapter DAR 815-245-6944

COFFEE WITH THE CHIEF

Woodstock Police Department 656 Lake Ave.

7 p.m. 815-338-6787

14 TUESDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

woodstockfarmersmarket.org

DISTRICT 200 BOARD OF EDUCATION

Woodstock High School

501 W. South St. 7 p.m. woodstockschools.org

15 WEDNESDAY

MEMORY MAKERS STORYTELLING GROUP

Woodstock Public Library

414 W. Judd St. (in person) 9:30 a.m. to noon 815-338-0542, ext. 14125

16 THURSDAY

SLC TRIVIA NIGHT - PUB TRIVIA USA

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St. 7 p.m. woodstockoperahouse.com

FLASHBACKS

35 years ago – 1989

■ Local youths Chris Nygaard, Steve Smith, Brad Smith, Brian Manke, and Todd Manke, discovered the remains of a mastodon at a construction site off Rose Farm Road. Experts from the Illinois State Museum conducted their own probe of the site and verified that the animal had, indeed, been a mastodon.

■ Queen candidates for Woodstock High School’s annual May Tribute were Carrie Larkin, Amy LeMert, Marnie Saufley, and Emily Weiss.

30 years ago – 1994

■ The WHS varsity baseball team easily defeated Lake Zurich High School 7- 0 behind Ryan Widmayer’s no-hitter. The team’s next two games were canceled – one called due to rain and the next because of snow and cold.

■ The WHS varsity boys tennis team improved its record to 10-1 with a 4-3 win over Jacobs High School. Leading the team at No. 1 singles was Jason Jeong, at No. 2 singles was Nate Karagianis, and at No. 3 was Jeremy Anderson.

25 years ago – 1999

■ Westwood Elementary School Principal Richard McDowell camped out on the roof of the school, keeping his promise to do so if more than 70 percent of his students met the Tracks Across America reading challenge.

■ Reliant Energy, Houston, applied to McHenry County for a conditional use permit to build a peaker power plant on a 125-acre parcel of land near the intersection of Route 47 and Route 176. The county’s Zoning Board of Appeals already was considering the INDECK Pleasant Valley peaker plant proposal for a nearby parcel.

■ Woodstock resident Joy Aavang published “Fly the Flag for Me,” her second book compiled from her interviews of military veterans.

20 years ago – 2004

■ Woodstock firefighters traveled to Utica to assist in relief efforts after the town was hit by a tornado that killed

eight people.

■ Woodstock residents Ken and Darlene Fiske received the National Wildlife Refuge Volunteers of the Year Award in Washington, D.C.

■ The Marian Central Catholic High School bass fishing team of Jake Vesper, Nolan Downs, and Jackie Bowler qualified for the IHSA state tournament in Carlyle. It was the first time Marian had a team qualify for the state bass fishing tournament.

15 years ago – 2009

■ The Woodstock Independent published “Twenty under 20,” a special section featuring 20 students currently attending high schools in Woodstock. Readers and high school staff members had suggested students to be featured. The Independent staff had the difficult task of identifying the final 20.

■ The Woodstock City Council

MAY 4, 1994 –Erin Burke of the Woodstock High School

varsity softball team tags out a runner in a cloud of dust at home plate during a recent game. Burke had three hits as the Lady Streaks broke a five-game losing streak with an 18-2 win over Dundee-Crown.

Collins had died March 1 of pancreatic cancer.

■ WHS was ranked 66th in Illinois by The Washington Post in its annual list of America’s Most Challenging High Schools. Woodstock North High School was not eligible to be ranked because it was such a new school.

■ WHS and WNHS announced they would exit the Fox Valley Conference in 2017 and join with three comparably sized schools to form the new Kishwaukee River Conference. The other high schools in the new conference would be Marengo, Harvard, and Burlington Central.

5 years ago – 2019

■ The Woodstock Garden Club installed new officers: Susan Gullotto, president; Brenda Dahlfors, recording secretary; Mary Fran Madjak, corresponding secretary; and Karen Hattan, treasurer. The club was celebrating its 95th anniversary.

FILE

postponed action on a special use permit requested by Woodstock Christian Life Services to build four duplexes on the site then occupied by Harrison House (Grace Hall), a building that had been part of Todd School for Boys. Mayor Brian Sager said the issue, in some respects, pitted historic preservation against property rights, both of which he said the city strongly values.

10 years ago – 2014

■ The Woodstock Professional & Business Women named Jane Collins Woman of the Year. It was the first time

■ The body of 5-year-old Andrew “AJ” Freund of Crystal Lake was found buried in a shallow grave off a farm access road along Dean Street south of Woodstock. A day after the body was discovered, bond was set at $5 million each for the boy’s parents, Andrew “Drew” Freund and JoAnn Cunningham. A search for the boy began April 18 when his parents reported him missing.

1 year ago – 2023

■ Brendan Parker, 46, was named chief of the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District. He had been acting chief since the sudden resignation of Mike Hill in December. Parker follows in the footsteps of his father, Phil, who retired from the district as assistant chief after 42 years in local firefighting. Brendan’s grandfather, Walter Parker, also had served as fire chief.

■ Through its “40 cans for 40 days” project, the Knights of Columbus Woodstock Council 776 at St. Mary Catholic Church was able to donate 1,675 pounds of canned goods and $500 to the Woodstock Food Pantry. Church members and students at St. Mary School were asked to donate 40 cans of food or a monetary amount.

INDEPENDENT

PHOTO BY DENNIS MATHES

COLLEGE REPORT

Marian’s Mason Hege logs three multiple-hit games for Carroll U.

Put me in coach, I am ready to play.

Not only is Marian Central Catholic graduate Mason Hege, a McHenry resident, ready to play, as famously sung in the song “Centerfield,” he is more than ready to hit. The Carroll University senior, who has either been suiting up as the Pioneers designated hitter or the first baseman, has had three multiple-hit games in the first six games of the year.

The 6-foot3, 220-pound senior utility player helped the Pioneers win two of those three games. In addition, thus far, he has been smacking extra-base hits. In his first multiple-hit game of the year, a 4-for-6 performance against Berea College, he smacked a solo homer and three doubles. With those hits, he drove home five runs and scored twice in the 20-14 Carroll win.

Dan Chamness

The College Report

Woodstock sophomore Marc Cheng, back this year in the No.1 singles position for the Blue Streaks, is hoping to contribute to a second KRC championship title for the Blue Streaks.

Streaks tennis looks to win KRC again

Coach sees depth and determination as strengths

By Juel Mecklenberg NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Despite some challenges with the weather, the Woodstock boys tennis program has gotten off to a “hot” start this season. Head coach Jake Porter is looking forward to watching how his top returning players are going to improve this season.

lower this season. They want to repeat as 2024 KRC champions, as well as scoring a sectional win. Porter also hopes to see four or more players qualify for State this year.

Strength in depth

The former Hurricane baseball player was 3-for-4 in a 19-5 victory over Illinois Institute of Technology. He doubled, tripled, and smacked a three-run homer. In a 6-4 loss to IIT, he was 2-for-5 with a double. He drove home one run.

In the first six games, Carroll has posted a record of 3-3.

Mason Carlisle (Woodstock North), a North Park University hurler, worked 1/3 of an inning in NPU’s 5-1 loss to Millikin University. He did not allow a single earned run, or a hit. He also did not walk or fan any batters. North Park is

See COLLEGE REPORT, Page 23

Sophomore Marc Cheng in No. 1 singles, junior Brett Neuhart in No. 2 singles, and senior Liam Hanson in No. 1 doubles are at the top of the list for the Blue Streaks.

There have not been many rotations or additional players to the Streaks’ roster this season, but junior Ben Vanderville, has made the jump from JV to varsity in No. 3 singles.

Season outlook

Porter has high expectations for his team this season. He noted that nine of the 11 starters are returning from last season. The team last year was conference champion, as well as sectional runner-up from the 2023 season. The expectations are no

The Blue Streaks’ greatest strength has been their depth. They are strong at singles, and have many upperclassmen, seasoned players at doubles.

Porter said Woodstock North has always been one of the Streaks top competitors. He also mentioned that the No. 1 singles for Johnsburg has always been a competitive matchup for Cheng.

Porter is looking for quality performances in conference from Cheng, Neuhart, and Hanson.

While only a sophomore, Cheng had a great season last year, but battled injuries near the end of the

season. Porter said Neuhart is always “chomping at the bit” to challenge Cheng, so they push each other.

The Blue Streaks have a full schedule this week, playing Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday in preparation for the KRC tournament Friday, May 10.

INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY KEN FARVER

Junior Brett Neuhart, No.2 singles, is always challenging for No. 1.

COLLEGE

Continued from Page 25

23-10 overall and 11-3 in the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin.

SOFTBALL

Ellie Thurow (Woodstock North), a Coe College pitcher, improved to 10-3 with a 10-0 win over Simpson College. Not only did the hurler, now in her fifth year, hold Simpson scoreless, but she also held them hitless as well. In five innings of work she fanned three batters and walked only one. Coe is 22-6 overall and 6-2 in the American Rivers Conference.

Meghan Nixon (Woodstock) was 1-for-3 with a double as her college team, Augustana College, was topped 4-1 by the University of WisconsinPlatteville. Norah Mungle (Woodstock North), a Wisconsin-Platteville freshman, walked in the contest. Augustana is 19-11 overall and 7-3 in the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin. Wisconsin-Platteville is 22-10 overall and 2-6 in the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. The game between Augustana and Wisconsin-Platteville was a nonconference battle.

SOCCER

Abby Foster (Woodstock North) finished her freshman season of soccer at Dordt University with five goals and two assists. She had 12 points. Foster, who played in all 20 games, was fourth in goals and points. She had one game-winning goal. Dordt is 12-6-2 overall and 7-3-2 in the Great Plains Athletic Conference.

TRACK AND FIELD

Siobhan Stoll (Marian Central Catholic) finished 25th in the 1,500meter run at the University of South Dakota Early Bird held at the Lillibridge Track Complex on their campus. The Creighton University runner finished the race, which featured 81 runners, in 5:01.76. Team scores were not kept.

Dominique Thomas (Marian Central Catholic) competed in two events at the Bryan Clay Invitational, which was hosted by Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California. Thomas took 17th in the 100-meter dash, crossing the finish line in :11.94. She also took 31st in the 200-meter dash, finishing in :24.65.

Dan Chamness writes The College Report for The Independent.

BRINGING THE HEAT

NN SCOREBOARD NN

BASEBALL

■ April 19 - Woodstock (6-10) defeated Harvard (4-15) 9-2.

■ April 22 - Marian (5-13) fell to Wheaton Academy (16-1) 12-1.

■ April 22 - Woodstock North (4-12-1) fell to Sandwich (10-7) in extra innings 6-5.

■ April 22 - Woodstock (7-10) defeated Johnsburg (4-16) 3-1.

■ April 24 - Marian (5-14) fell to Wheaton Academy (17-1) 13-8.

■ April 24 - Woodstock North (5-12-1) defeated Sandwich (10-8) 5-4.

■ April 25 - Marian (5-15) fell to Chicago Christian (10-10) 8-7.

■ April 25 - Woodstock (7-11) fell to Johnsburg (5-17) 9-7.

■ April 27 - Woodstock North (5-13-1) fell to Grayslake Central (14-6) 9-2.

■ April 27 - Woodstock North (5-14-1) fell to Von Steuben (10-12) 13-7.

■ April 27 - Marian (6-15) defeated Westminster Christian (10-5-1) 9-8.

SOFTBALL

■ April 19 - Woodstock North (10-6) defeated Crystal Lake Central (10-5) 3-2.

■ April 22 - Woodstock North (11-6) defeated Plano (2-16) 5-4.

■ April 22 - Woodstock (0-12-1) fell to Marian (7-8) 10-4.

■ April 23 - Woodstock North (11-7) fell

to Marengo (16-3) 15-12.

■ April 23 - Woodstock (0-13-1) fell to Harvard (6-9) 5-1.

■ April 25 - Woodstock (0-14-1) fell to Marengo (17-3) 20-0.

■ April 25 - Woodstock North (12-7) defeated Plano (2-18) 11-0.

■ April 27 - Marian (8-8) defeated Chicago Christian (5-8) 2-1.

■ April 27 - Marian (8-9) fell to Chicago Christian (6-8) 10-2.

GIRLS SOCCER

■ April 20 - Woodstock North (6-8) defeated Winnebago (5-6-1) 3-1.

■ April 22 - Marian (5-3-1) defeated Marengo (3-12-1) 8-1.

■ April 23 - Woodstock (7-8-1) fell to Woodstock North (7-8) 2-1.

■ April 24 - Marian (6-3-1) defeated Chicago Hope Academy (8-7) 4-2.

■ April 25 - Marian (7-3-1) defeated Cristo Rey St. Martin (0-12) 5-0.

■ April 25 - Woodstock North (8-8) defeated Plano (2-14) 9-0.

■ April 25 - Woodstock (8-8-1) defeated Marengo (3-14-1) in the KRC Tournament 6-0.

LACROSSE

■ April 23 - Marian (2-5) defeated Dundee Crown (0-11) 10-5.

■ April 26 - Marian (2-6) fell to Marmion (4-10) 20-4.

vs. Bison Outlaws Navy, TC Crush, and Pewaukee Jr. Pirates to secure the championship. Pictured left to right, bottom row: Luca Kozlow, Simon Baker, Sam Ulanowski, Frank Cohen, and Easton Klesch.

Top row (from left): Coach Mike Kozlow, Rian HahnClifton, Nick Morrow, Coach Al Baker, Bryce Schwanke, coach Travis Kirk, Pax Kirk, coach Jason Cohen, Caleb Weir, and Emmett Newman. Not pictured: Carson Halihan

COURTESY PHOTO

GETTING THE JUMP ON THE SEASON

2024 McHenry County Championship, April 19

The County Meet can be an early measure of how teams are stacking up this season, but it also draws a mix of classes, with 1A, 2A and 3A schools all competing together. Woodstock and Woodstock North high schools produced several meet champions.

BOYS

MEET CHAMPIONS:

100m (W) Nolan Van Hoorn (11.16) 4x800 relay (W) Ellery Shutt, Aryan Patel, Cohen Shutt, Ishan Patel (8:30.65)

Top 5 placings:

200m (W) Nolan Van Hoorn, 4th 400m W) Braedon Schwanke, 3rd

110 hurdles (N) Landan Creighton, 4th 4x400 relay (W) Cohen Shutt, Sam Tafoya, Braedon Schwanke, Ishan Patel, 2nd Shot (W) Tyler Moon, 3rd

High jump (N) Landan Creighton, 3rd Pole vault (N) Braelan Creighton, 4th Long jump (W) Nolan Van Hoorn, 3rd Triple jump (N) Landan Creighton, 4th

GIRLS

MEET CHAMPIONS:

100 hurdles (N) Bella Borta (16.90)

300 hurdles (W) Amina Idris (49.03) 4x400 relay (W) Sophia Mendoza, Amina Idris, Mia Foss, Sophie Sarabia (4:18.96)

Shot (N) Ashley Janeczko (11.20m)

Discus (N) Ashley Janeczko (33.50m)

High jump (W) Hallie Steponaitis (1.57m)

NN SCOREBOARD NN

Top 5 placings include:

100m (W) Sophia Mendoza, 5th

100 hurdles (W) Amina Idris, 3rd

300 hurdles (N) Bella Borta, 2nd

Shot (W) Anna Crenshaw, 2nd

Shot (N) Brenna McConnell, 4th

Discus (W) Anna Crenshaw, 2nd

High jump (N) Lauren Bieszczad, 3rd

Pole vault (W) Savannah Griffin, 5th

Long jump (W) Sophia Mendoza, 2nd

Triple jump (W) Mia Foss, 4th

Triple jump (N) Dani Hansen, 5th

BOYS TRACK AND FIELD

■ April 16 - Woodstock won the Marengo, Woodstock, Johnsburg Triangle meet,* scoring 44.5 points. Seniors Andrew Ryan and John Flannigan finished first and second in the shot put (9.98m) and (9.85m).

*Weather caused the meet to be called off early with incomplete results.

■ April 16 - Marian fell to Carmel 11612. Junior Tim Bligh got a PR and finished fourth in the shot put (9.44m).

Junior Ronan Costello finished fourth in the 400m (59.29 sec).

■ April 16 - Woodstock North finished third at the KRC Triangle Meet with Plano and Richmond-Burton, scoring 43 points. Senior Landan Creighton won the 110m hurdles (16.70 sec). Senior John Suay finished third in the discus (35.46m).

■ April 19 - Woodstock finished seventh at the 2024 McHenry County Championship, scoring 69 points.

■ April 19 - Woodstock North finished eighth at the 2024 McHenry County Championship scoring 23 points.

■ April 20 - Woodstock Senior Ishan

Patel finished sixth in the 1600m at Distance Night in Palatine (4:24.41 sec).

■ April 20 - Woodstock North finished fourth at the Central HS Frosh-Soph Rocket Relays, scoring 58 points.

Sophomore JR Fadahunsi won the long jump (5.65m). Sophomore John Hugger won the 1600m (5:25.80).

■ April 23 - Woodstock won the Woodstock, Sandwich, Plano Triangle meet, scoring 97.5 points. Sophomore Colton Medley got a PR and won the 110m hurdles (17.58 sec). Senior Bode Pedersen finished second in the discus (37.59m).

■ April 23 - Woodstock North defeated M arengo at the KRC Dual Meet 73-69. Junior Dominion Okwong won the 400m sprint (54.56 sec). Sophomore Mikey Pintor won the long jump (5.35m).

■ April 24 - Marian finished second at the Timothy Christian CCC Quad, scoring 61 points. Junior Derek Leitzen won the 300m hurdles (49.16 sec).

Freshman Danny Derouen finished second in the shot put (9.28m).

■ April 25 - Marian finished seventh at the Richmond Burton Rocket Relays, scoring 31.33 points. Senior Andrew Dovidio got a PR and finished second in the triple jump (11.82m).

GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD

■ April 16 - Woodstock won and tied with Johnsburg at the Marengo, Woodstock, Johnsburg Triangle meet,* scoring 41 points. Senior Hallie Steponaitis won the high jump (1.63m).

Sophomore Mia Foss placed second in the triple jump (9.50m).*Weather caused the meet to be called off early with incomplete results.

■ April 16 - Marian fell to Carmel 90-37. Senior Amelia Reiche finished third in the 100m sprint (13.52 sec). Senior Makaylah Farrell got a PR and won the shot put (6.40m).

■ April 16 - Woodstock North won the KRC Triangle Meet with Plano and Richmond-Burton, scoring 61 points. Woodstock North got a PR and won the 4X100m with Jaida Collins, Abbie Manoso, Victoria Grant, Daisy Garcia. Senior Ashley Janeczko got a PR and won the discus (34.53m)

■ April 19 - Woodstock finished third at the 2024 McHenry County Championship, scoring 85.5 points.

■ April 19 - Woodstock North finished seventh at the 2024 McHenry County Championship scoring 60 points.

■ April 23 - Woodstock won the Woodstock, Sandwich, Plano Triangle meet, scoring 81 points. Junior Sophia Mendoza won the 100m sprint (13.36 sec). Senior Savannah Griffin won the pole vault (2.44m).

■ April 23 - Woodstock North defeated Marengo at the KRC Dual Meet 79-58. Junior Maddie Mock won the 3200m run (13:39.85 sec). Sophomore Lauren Bieszczad got a PR and won the high jump (1.48m).

■ April 24 - Marian finished third at the Timothy Christian CCC Quad, scoring 23 points. Senior Kaitlyn Remke won the 100m hurdles (18.91 sec). Senior Makaylah Farrell finished fourth in the shot put (6.16m).

■ April 25 - Marian finished eighth at the Richmond Burton Rocket Relays, scoring 16.75 points. Senior Amelia Reiche finished third in the long jump (4.99m).

INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY KEN FARVER

Woodstock North hurdlers Lauren Bieszczad (left) and Landan Creighton compete in the high hurdles at home in mid-April.

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER

Marian freshman Kalie Paris and the Lady ’Canes hosted Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep April 25. Marian won 5-0.

Woodstock North senior Benjamin Lagerhausen plays crosstown tennis April 25 at Woodstock High School.

Tux came from Southern Illinois suffering from severe neglect that resulted in the removal of most of his teeth. He can still eat hard kibble and soft food with no issues, however, and he’s always excited for feeding time. He gets along well with other cats, and welcomes them into the cat room. He has a friend named Smokey that he plays with and cuddles with. He’s extremely friendly to humans and he likes to say hello when they enter the room. If you are looking for a relaxed dude to chill all day with, Tux is for you! Call HP to set up an appointment.

Woodstock North senior Casey Jo Vermett has been a member of the softball team since freshman year. Casey Jo is a force to be reckoned with on the field. Her journey to becoming a standout athlete is one marked by dedication, passion, and drive.

Casey Jo’s success lies in her unparalleled skill as a pitcher. With an impressive tally of over 500 strikeouts under her belt, she has left batters awestruck. Yet, Casey Jo’s talents extend beyond the pitcher’s mound, breaking the season home run record with an astounding seven homers. She is a true powerhouse at the plate. With each pitch and each swing, she is cementing her legacy for the sport.

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER

By Leigh Rubin HEATHCLIFF By Peter Gallagher

Rules: 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. SOLUTION

CRYPTO FUN

REFRESHING ROMAINE SALAD SPINACH TOMATOES TOPPING TOSSED

WORD SCRAMBLE GUESS

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, April 24, 2024, May 1, 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 J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk)

(Published in The Woodstock Independent April 17, 2024, April 24, 2024, May 1, 2024)L11777

PUBLIC NOTICE

CHANGE TO DBA

WITHDRAWAL OF NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on APRIL 11, A.D. 2024, a Certificate was filed in the Office of the County Clerk of McHenry County IL concerning the business known as ON THE BRINK SALON located at 53 BRINK ST. CRYSTAL LAKE, IL 60014 which certificate sets for the the following WITHDRAWAL OF NAME change in the DBA thereof: ON THE BRINK SALON LOCATED AT 53 BRINK ST. CRYSTAL LAKE, IL 60014 WITHDRAWAL OF NAME FOR CATHLEEN RICHARDS.

Dated this 11TH day of APRIL, A.D., 2024 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk)

(Published in The Woodstock Independent April 17, 2024, April 24, 2024, May 1, 2024)L11778

PUBLIC NOTICE

CHANGE TO DBA

OWNER’S CHANGE OF NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on APRIL 11, A.D. 2024, a Certificate was filed in the Office of the County Clerk of McHenry County IL concerning the business known as ON THE

BRINK SALON located at 53 BRINK ST. CRYSTAL LAKE, IL 60014 which certificate sets for the the following OWNER’S CHANGE OF NAME change in the DBA thereof: ON THE BRINK SALON LOCATED AT 53 BRINK ST. CRYSTAL LAKE, IL 60014 CHANGE TO BUSINESS OWNERS NAME FROM JULIE BENSON TO JULIE HOLBERG.

Dated this 11TH day of APRIL, A.D., 2024

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

(Published in The Woodstock Independent April 17, 2024, April 24, 2024, May 1, 2024)L11779

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT

MCHENRY COUNTY

PUBLICATION NOTICE OF COURT

DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE (ADULT)

Request of KELSEY ANN BOWEN

Case No. 2024MR000054

There will be a court hearing on my Request to change my name from: KELSEY ANN BOWEN

To the new name of: RHODE ANN KELSEY BOWEN

The court date will be held on June 14, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. at 2200 N. Seminary Ave. Woodstock, McHenry County in Courtroom 201.

Dated at Woodstock, IL April 17, 2024 /s/Kelsey Ann Bowen

(Published in The Woodstock Independent April 24, 2024, May 1, 2024) L11780

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTY-SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT MCHENRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS-IN PROBATE

Case No. 2024PR000109

In the Matter of the Estate of NEIL S.

BASELEY

Deceased

CLAIM NOTICE

Notice is given of the death of NEIL S. BASELEY Of: LAKEMOOR, IL

Letters of office were issued on: 4/15/2024

To Representative: CHRISTOPHER J. BASELEY 808 PAUL ST. MCHENRY, IL 60051 whose attorney is: WAGGONER LAW FIRM 4 N. WALKUP AVE. CRYSTAL LAKE, IL 60014

Claims against the estate may be filed within six months from the date of the first publication. Any claim not filed within six months from the date of first publication or claims not filed within three months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to Creditor, whichever is later, shall be barred. Claims may be filed in the office of the Clerk of Circuit Court at the McHenry County Government Center, 2200 North Seminary Avenue, Woodstock, Illinois, 60098, or with the representative, or both. Copies of claims filed with the

PUBLIC NOTICES

Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to his attorney within ten days after it has been filed.

/s/KATHERINE M KEEFE (Clerk of the Circuit Court)

(Published in The Woodstock Independent April 24, 2024, May 1, 2024) L11781

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on APRIL 19, 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 NASH & RALEIGH located at 9 ROYAL OAK COURT LAKE IN THE HILLS, IL 60156. Owner Name & Address: IVY MOYER 9 ROYAL OAK COURT LAKE IN THE HILLS, IL 60156.

Dated: APRIL 19, 2024

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

(Published in The Woodstock Independent May 1, 2024)L11782

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING

On 5/17/2024 at 9:30 a.m., a meeting conducted by Woodstock CUSD 200 will take place virtually. The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss the district’s plans for providing special education services to students with disabilities who attend private schools and home schools within the district for the 20242025 school year. If you are the parent of a homeschooled student who has been or may be identified with a disability and you reside within the boundaries of Woodstock District 200, you are urged to attend. If you plan to attend this meeting, please email Lisa Pearson at lpearson@ wcusd200.org.

(Published in The Woodstock Independent May 1, 2024)L11783

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice of Self-Storage Sale

Please notice Red Dot Storage 6Woodstock located at 2105 S. Eastwood Dr, Woodstock, IL 60098 intends to hold an auction of the goods stored in the following units in default for non-payment of rent. The sale will be an online auction via www. storageTreasures.com on 5/22/2024 at 9:30 am. Unless stated otherwise the description of the contents is household goods and furnishings. Denise Denman Unit #611. All property is being stored at the above self-storage facility. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice.

Certain terms and conditions apply. See manager for details.

(Published in The Woodstock Independent May 1, 2024)L11784

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTY-SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT MCHENRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS-IN PROBATE

Case No. 2024PR000124

In the Matter of the Estate of JOYCE B. SHOOK

Deceased

CLAIM NOTICE

Notice is given of the death of JOYCE B. SHOOK

Of: WOODSTOCK, IL

Letters of office were issued on: 4/18/2024

To Representative: ROBIN R. GIBBS 529 STEWART AVE. WOODSTOCK, IL 60098 whose attorney is: MICHLING LAW FIRM 101 N. THROOP ST. WOODSTOCK, IL 60098

Claims against the estate may be filed within six months from the date of the first publication. Any claim not filed within six months from the date of first publication or claims not filed within three months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to Creditor, whichever is later, shall be barred. Claims may be filed in the office of the Clerk of Circuit Court at the McHenry County Government Center, 2200 North Seminary Avenue, Woodstock, Illinois, 60098, or with the representative, or both. Copies of claims filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to his attorney within ten days after it has been filed. /s/KATHERINE M KEEFE (Clerk of the Circuit Court)

(Published in The Woodstock Independent May 1, 2024)L11785

PUBLIC NOTICE

2024 LOW-INCOME SENIOR CITIZENS ASSESSMENT FREEZE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION

The Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption (35ILCS 200/15172) allows qualified senior citizens to elect to maintain the equalized assessed value of their home at the base year value and prevent any increase due to inflation. The base year is the year prior to the year you first qualify and apply for the exemption. The assessment freeze exemption does not freeze the amount of your property tax bill, which could increase if the tax rate increases. Your assessment and tax bill may also increase if you add improvements to your home. To qualify for the assessment freeze in 2024, you must be 65 years of age or older during the taxable year and have a total household income of no more than $65,000 in 2023.

In addition, on January 1, 2023 and January 1, 2024, you must have used the property as your principal place of residence, have owned the property or had legal or equitable interest in the property by written instrument, or had a leasehold interest in the single-family residence and be liable for the payment of property taxes. Application must be submitted by July 1st , 2024. Information and applications are available from the Office of Assessments, located in the Administration Building, directly north of the Courthouse Complex, at 667 Ware Road in Woodstock, IL 60098, (815)

334-4290. Applications are also available on our website at www.mchenrycountyil. gov Click on

County Government, then Departments, then Assessments, then Forms and Rules and click on the above named application for the current year.

(Published in The Woodstock Independent May 1, 2024)L11786

PUBLIC NOTICE

SPECIAL TOWN MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN

To the legal voters, residents of Dorr Township in the County of McHenry and State of Illinois, that a Special Town Meeting of said Town will take place on May 21, 2024 at the hour of 6:30 P.M. at Dorr Township Highway Operations 12322 Davis Road Woodstock, Illinois 60098

The purpose of said meeting is to authorize Dorr Township Highway Operations to construct two (2) buildings pursuant to specifications. The Agenda for the Special Town Meeting is set forth below:

SPECIAL TOWN MEETING –May 21, 2024 at 6:30 P.M.

Held at Dorr Township Highway Operations 12322 Davis Road

Woodstock, IL 60098

1. Pledge of Allegiance.

2. Meeting called to Order by the Town Clerk who introduces Township Officials. First Order of Business is the election of a Moderator. Clerk swears in Moderator. Moderator assumes duty of conducting the meeting.

3. Moderator asks Clerk to read the call of the Special Town Meeting. (Call of the Meeting, Certificate of Publication and Affidavit of posting Notices.)

4. Discussion on Dorr Township Highway Operations Building Project.

5. Vote for approval of two (2) buildings at Dorr Township Highway Operations

6. Motion to adjourn.

Dated: May 1, 2024 /s/ Brenda E. Stack

Brenda E. Stack, Dorr Township Clerk (Published in The Woodstock Independent May 1, 2024)L11787

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on APRIL 23, 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 FRITZ’S CATERING located at 3535 N. RICHMOND RD. JOHNSBURG, IL 60051. Owner Name & Address: WAYNE FRITZ AND ANGIE FRITZ 3535 N. RICHMOND RD. JOHNSBURG, IL 60051.

Dated: APRIL 23, 2024

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

(Published in The Woodstock Independent May 1, 2024)L11788