Woodstock Independent 5/22/24

The Woodstock

May 22-28, 2024

I NDEPENDENT

BUSINESS

The Food Shed is officially open for business

WHS and WNHS girls rep Woodstock at State meet

Presenting the class of 2024

By Sandy Kucharski SANDY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

The Woodstock and Woodstock North high school classes of 2024 have completed their high school graduation requirements and have been sent out into the world to make a

difference.

It was picture-perfect weather for Woodstock District 200 to host commencement ceremonies for both high schools this past weekend.

On the north side of town, WNHS took advantage of the the air-conditioned gymnasium with the new mural

backdrop to hold their evening commencement May 18.

At the WHS campus downtown, organizers embraced the sunshine and mild afternoon temperatures to host an outdoor ceremony on the track in front of the football field on May 19.

Phone: 815-338-8040

Fax: 815-338-8177

Thewoodstock independent.com

By Julian Senn-Raemont NEWS@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

When Marcos Saldivar was 11 months old, his parents faced a difficult choice. The area in Mexico where his family lived at that time was plagued by violence. Opportunities were slim, and the government was corrupt and unstable. Although Saldivar’s extended family lived in Mexico,

and it was likely that his immediate family would never see them again, his parents made the decision to leave, to seek a safe place to work and raise a family.

“The whole world knows that

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY VICKY LONG

Woodstock North salutatorian Josue Figueroa gets applause from principal Dr. Josh Segura.

IMMIGRATION

Continued from Page 1

America is the place to do it,” Saldivar said. He now works at McHenry County College as an Undocumented Student Liaison. “People are running because they’re scared for their lives.” Saldivar grew up as an undocumented person. His family could not obtain work authorizations at first, as there were few pathways toward gaining citizenship at that time. Over time, Saldivar’s family earned citizenship. As an adult, Saldivar’s own experience of his path to citizenship helps him provide aid to others who are on a similar journey. He eschews words like “illegal” to describe a person. “We’re just here to work and have a better future,” Saldivar said.

Resources available

The Illinois Public Act 102-0475, passed on July 1, 2021, states that every public university and community college must designate a staff member as an Undocumented Student Liaison. People like Saldivar work to guide and assist students on the path to U.S. citizenship, helping them to access financial aid and other academic opportunities.

Students who are undocumented face a wide array of challenges. They

PUBLIC SAFETY LOG

Woodstock Police Department

■ Jessica R. Johnson, 45, Crystal Lake, was arrested April 26 at Lake Ave. on charges of retail theft. Released on notice to appear. Court date May 3.

■ Juvenile, 17, Woodstock, was arrested April 26 at Prairie Ridge Drive/Clover Chase Circle on charges of no valid drivers license. Released to parent. Court date May 23.

■ Noe Arellano, 20, Woodstock, was arrested April 27 at East Judd and North Seminary Avenue on charges of driving while license suspended, failure to use seatbelt, driving with expired plates. Released on notice to appear, Court date May 23.

■ Megan E. Corrales, 39, Woodstock, was arrested May 1 at Washington Street on charges of theft. Released on notice to appear. Court date May 10.

■ Jamie N. Dupaw, 39, Woodstock, was arrested May 2 at Bloomfield

COURTESY PHOTO

Marcos Saldivar, who immigrated to the United States as a child, is now helping others on the pathway to citizenship as the Undocumented Student Liaison at McHenry County College.

do not qualify for the FAFSA student financial aid program, cannot get a W2, and often live with the fear of being detained by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. And if an undocumented student graduates with a degree, they’re not guaranteed employment because they may not yet have an Employment Authorization

Document. There is a path for undocumented people to receive a Social Security number, but this alone does not guarantee employment.

In his work as an Undocumented Student Liaison, Saldivar informs immigrants without citizenship that college is an option and helps them maneuver the path to employment. But the biggest service the liaison program offers MCC students, he said, is access to free legal consultation. Immigration lawyers can charge upwards of $350 for consultation, and money can be tight for undocumented families. The free consultations at MCC take place on the second Wednesday of every month. During these meetings, an immigration lawyer discusses the different pathways to citizenship and shines a light on different resources they can use. These consultations are done in partnership with the North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic.

Irma Wilson, a senior staff attorney for NSLAC, says the work is “busy, but rewarding” and that immigrants today face unique challenges.

“The first priority is wanting to work and support themselves,” she said. “Recent migrants are fleeing from unreliable economies, gangs and civil war.”

There are complexities involved when working with immigration law. One example is the number of

agencies involved, such as the Department of Homeland Security and the State Department. Coordinating with them can complicate matters for people seeking to live in the U.S.

Another challenge facing immigrants is dealing with laws that are sometimes outdated. “Some of the laws haven’t been retouched in decades,” Wilson said. “Things haven’t caught up with the 21st century.”

The best advice Wilson has for people seeking citizenship is to meet with an attorney. Many immigrants may not be aware of the different doorways to achieving legal U.S. status and getting legitimate work permits. “Expanding our reach to MCC is a great way for people to access free legal services and meet with an attorney at no cost,” Wilson said.

Saldivar added that the service provides hope for people who are living under difficult circumstances. “We hope to see more open-mindedness towards the issue,” he said, “and for people to see that we’re not a burden, but an asset.”

Free legal consultations for MCC students are held on the second Wednesday of every month. Information on scheduling an appointment can be found at: www.mchenry.edu/ events/2024/04/div-04-10.html.

Drive on charges of domestic battery, Transferred to McHenry County jail. Court date to be determined.

■ Matthew C. Frym, 42, Transient, was arrested May 3 at Davis Road on charges of criminal trespass to property. Released on notice to appear. Court date June 6.

■ Clayton R. Tegtman, 22, Woodstock, was arrested May 4 at Lake Avenue and Kilkenny Court on charges of driving under the influence, improper lane usage, operating motor vehicle in unsafe condition. Released on notice to appear. Court date May 23.

■ Ruben Herrera, 33, Belvidere, was arrested May 4 at Country Club Road and Sharon Drive on charges of driving while license revoke, speeding. Released on notice to appear. Court date May 23.

■ Enrique B. Zepeda Urbina, 30, Woodstock, was arrested May 5 at Prairie View Lane on charges of driving under the influence, operating

uninsured motor vehicle, disobeying stop sign. Released on notice to appear. Court date June 6.

■ Zamira Baizakova, 49, Hampshire, was arrested May 6 at South Eastwood Drive on charges of driving with license suspended, operating motor vehicle with suspended registration. Released on notice to appear. Court date June 20.

■ Richard E. McQuitter, 68, Peoria, was arrested May 7 at Davis Road on charges of violation of bail bond. Transferred to McHenry County jail. Court date TBD.

■ Alexander Machado-Matute, 31, Woodstock, was arrested May 7 at IL Route 176 on charges of no valid drivers license, no seatbelt (child passenger), disobeying stop sign. Released on notice to appear. Court date June 20.

Charges are only accusations of crimes, and defendants are presumed innocent until proved guilty.

Woodstock Fire/Rescue District

Ambulance runs May 9 to 15: 74

Fire runs

Structure fire: 1

Rescue or EMS standby: 2

Combustible fuel & leaks: 1

Electrical wiring/equipment problem: 2

Public service assistance: 12

Wrong location, no emergency: 2

Steam, other gas mistaken for smoke: 1

System or detector malfunction: 1

Unintentional system/detector operation (no fire): 4

Total: 100

See photos of every graduate in our special grad sections: May 29 - WNHS; June 5 - WHS; June 12 - Marian

To advertise, Contact Jill: Jill@ thewoodstockindependent.com 815-701-9258

D-200 School Board briefs

By Caryl Dierksen NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

At its May 14 meeting, the District 200 Board of Education took the following actions:

n The board elected its officers for the 2024-25 school year. Elected unanimously were president Carl Gilmore; vice-president Jake Homuth; and secretary John Parisi. All will continue in the offices that they currently hold.

n The board unanimously approved a new, five-year contract with the Woodstock Transportation Employees’ Council, Local 1642, IFT/AFT. The agreement includes the same pay structure that was approved last month in contracts with the teachers’ and custodians’ unions. It sets a 5 percent pay increase the first year; 4.5 percent the second year; 4.25 percent the third year; and in the final two years, an increase based on the Consumer Price Index, with a minimum of 3.25 percent and a maximum of 4.5 percent.

n The board recognized 37 students on the Woodstock and Woodstock North high schools’ math teams. Both teams qualified in regional competition to par ticipate in the state-level contest spon sored by the Illinois Council of Teachers of Math. It was held April 6 at Illinois State University.

Students competed as both individuals and teams in the categories of Alge bra I and II, geometry, pre-calculus and calculator team. The WNHS calculator team had qualified for state competition by winning first place in regional competition.

Woodstock High School

The WNHS team is coached by Sarah Pigman with assistance from Jeanne Salazar. The WHS team is coached by Annamarie Spencer, who is assisted by Matt Kitsis.

n The board unanimously approved their meeting schedule for the upcoming year. They will continue with two monthly meetings, held on the second and fourth Tuesdays, in most months of the school year. They will meet only once per month in the summer months and November, December and March. All meetings will begin at 7 pm and will be held in the WHS learning resources center.

The board’s next regularly scheduled meeting will be held at 7 p.m., Tuesday, May 28.

salutatorian Charles Baker (above) introduces staff and Addison Walker processes to the stage to recieve her diploma.

GRADS

Continued from Page 1

Class of 2024 valedictorian Cohen Shutt delivers his addresss during WHS commencement.

Graduation by numbers

WNHS

■ Graduates - 224

Regardless of the venue, the whole town of Woodstock celebrated their seniors this weekend.

While the speeches and emotions of the students and families provided the emotional backdrop for the D-200 commencement ceremonies, the number accomplishments spoke volumes as well.

■ Cum Laude Grads - 55

■ AP diploma graduates - 24

■ Graduation with honors - 76

■ Illinois State Scholars - 26

■ 12 in 200 - 114

■ 300 credit club - 21

■ Dual Degree - 16

■ State Seal of Biliteracy - 52

■ Commendation Toward

Biliteracy - 18

■ Trilingual Scholar - 1

WHS

■ Graduates - 251

■ Cum Laude Grads - 74

■ AP diploma graduates - 20

■ Gradution with honors - 57

■ Illinois State Scholars - 31

■ 12 in 200 - 120

■ 300 credit club - 28

■ Dual Degree - 11

■ State Seal of Biliteracy - 61

■ Dual Language Medallion - 23

■ Commendation Toward

Biliteracy - 6

INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY VICKY LONG

Woodstock North valedictorian Mawell Parrish (above) addresses the class of 2024, while Emerich Parpart accompanies a choral presentation on guitar, featuring WNHS seniors, directed by Paul Raush.

INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY KEN FARVER

OBITUARIES

Juanita D. Whiting, 82

Juanita D. Whiting, 82, of Woodstock, passed away on Friday, May 10, 2024, surrounded by family at The Springs of Monarch Landing in Naperville.

She was born in Woodstock on November 16, 1941 to Basil and Isabel (Crummer) Colburn. She married James A. Whiting on October 7, 1961, in Woodstock.

Nancy Ludwena Braun, 86

Montpelier, VT - Nancy Ludwena (nee Lang, nee Briscoe) Braun, age 86, known as “Grandma Llama” to many, passed away peacefully of natural causes Wednesday, May 15, 2024, attended by her beloved daughter Betsy and the compassionate caregivers at Heaton Woods.

& Grandpa Llama. After John passed, Nancy spent her time spinning and weaving and often demonstrated her craft at Old World Wisconsin. She sold the farm in 2002 and devoted the rest of her life to traveling the continent in her RV camper with her faithful canine companion, Lucy.

She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Woodstock. She was a very talented seamstress and a national award winning quilter. She taught classes at Sewing Concepts in Woodstock as well as working as a designer and baker. Her family was her passion in life. She was very much loved, and her passion and vitality will be greatly missed.

She is survived by three sons, Ronald (Jill) Whiting, Bradley (Michele) Whiting, and Mark (Diane) Whiting. Also surviving are four grandchildren, Devin, Lauren (Sean) Herron, Lindsey (Howard) Galloway, and Brendan. She leaves behind as well a great grandchild, Isla, and a sister, Charlotte Hansen.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Jim.

A gathering of friends and relatives will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church, 312 Lincoln Avenue, Woodstock, on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, from 8:30 am until the 10:30 a.m. Memorial Mass. Interment will follow in Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Woodstock.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Helping Paws would be appreciated.

For more information contact the Schneider, Leucht, Merwin Cooney Funeral Home at 815-338-1710 or visit www.slmcfh.com.

Nancy was born March 1, 1938, in Niagara Falls, NY, to Beryl and Francis Lang, both teachers. She was a Girl Scout and an avid hiker and swimmer. She participated in synchronized swimming at Niagara Falls High School, graduating in 1956 with honors, and won a scholarship to study nursing at Le Moyne College. Nancy cherished childhood memories of summers spent with her sisters Barb and Fran and neighborhood friends—including her lifelong friend Anna (Trish) Johnson—at the family cottage on Lake Kamaniskeg in Ontario, Canada.

Nancy made friends wherever she went and visited most of the western national parks, often serving as campground host. She was always up for an adventure and enjoyed being “on the road”: venturing as far south as Baja, Mexico, and north to Alaska. As her health started to deteriorate, she divided her time between her children and their families, finally settling down in Montpelier.

Nancy was preceded in death by her father and mother and both of her husbands.

became a pilot able to fly small planes, played the saxophone and loved to learn, completing a degree in finance and masters in accounting. He loved creating spreadsheets for his budget.

Tom Micek

Tom met Patty Taylor while attending NIU, DeKalb. They were married on October 24, 1981, and had 42 wonderful years together raising 2 sons. Tom loved his family dearly. He was especially excited to become a grandpa to baby Brayden. Tom will be missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

Nancy met her future husband, Robert J Briscoe, in 1958 shortly after he was drafted and stationed at Fort Niagara. They soon married and moved back to the Chicago area, eventually settling in Woodstock, Illinois, where they raised a family of six children together before separating in 1974.

Nancy had many professions and interests throughout her life—as a rural route carrier for the postal service, leading a cooperative preschool, volunteering with local political campaigns and the League of Women Voters—but most notable was her 14-year career as Executive Director of the McHenry County Housing Authority. She was passionate about her work, her staff, doing outreach and writing grants to provide resources for those underserved in the community. She spoke at many Housing & Urban Development (HUD) conferences across the country and developed a love for travel.

She met and married John Braun in 1984 and together they established Palisades Animal Farm in Clinton, WI. There they raised an assortment of exotic animals, including: llamas, pot-bellied pigs, peacocks, emus, goats, donkeys, rabbits and many more. They loved hosting school and Scout groups for tours of the farm, especially the grandkids who affectionately nicknamed them Grandma

She is survived by her sisters: Barbara (Jim) Gutman of Santa Barbara, CA, and Francis (Peter) Marbarger of Anchorage, AK, and their families. She also leaves behind two daughters: Patricia (Randolph) Carey of Madison, WI, and Elizabeth (Lowell) Vanderlip of Montpelier, VT; and four sons: Robert Briscoe Jr of Tenafly, NJ; John (Cindy) Briscoe of Libertyville, IL; Timothy (Amy) Briscoe of Mequon, WI, and Joseph (Terri) Briscoe of Southington, CT. Also three stepsons: Michael (Robin) Braun of Arlington Heights, IL; Thomas Braun of Pasadena, CA, and Jack Braun of Washington, DC. Plus twenty-two grandchildren: Sarah, Luke, Kyle, Carly, Ella, Robbie, Matt, Martha, Isabel, Jacob, Jen, Leo, Tessa, Calvin, Ian, George, Jack, Francis, Elizabeth, Katie, Stephen, and Laura. And four great-grandchildren: Lucy, Thatcher and Mary Martin, and Lucille Kiel.

Nancy’s declining health was attended to by many over the years, including the kind and gentle caregivers at Heaton Woods who will miss her greatly. The family wishes to thank each and every one whose life was touched by Nancy’s love of life, her adventurous spirit, quirky sense of humor, and lively stories.

Memorials can be made to “Grandma Llama” at Heaton Woods Residence; 10 Heaton Street; Montpelier, VT 05602 or online at www.livingwellgroup.org

Thomas A. Micek, 72

Thomas A. Micek, of Woodstock, passed away on May 5, 2024, at the age of 72. Born on October 19, 1951, in Chicago, Tom had fond memories growing up there with his brothers, sisters, cousins, and friends. He loved old cars,

Tom started his career in finance/ treasury at Wilson Sporting Goods Co., moved on to REDEX Corp., VideoJet Technologies, and later as Controller/ Finance Director for the Pioneer Center, McHenry, and Youth Service Bureau in Woodstock.

He is survived by his loving wife, Patty; sons Ryan B. Micek, Brett A. Micek (Lexi Lamont) and grandson Brayden A. Micek; sisters Linda Zimmerman and Karen Malats (Albert), brother Alan Micek (Jean), cousin Diane Poniatowski (John), sister-in-laws Mary Jo (Brett) Willits, Colleen (Gary) Huntley, Georgia (Scott) Stevens, and brother-inlaws Robert (Mary) Taylor, Dennis (Theresa) Taylor, John (Michelle) Taylor, and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Jerome P. and Stephanie Micek (nee Jaroszewski), his brothers James, Kenneth, and Jerome Jr., and favorite mother-in-law Mary Taylor.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District or the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, (T2T.org), which helps the families of fallen first responders and homeless veterans.

The visitation was held Tuesday, May 14, from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. with a Prayer Service at 11:30 a.m. at the Schneider, Leucht, Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, 1211 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock IL. www.slmcfh.com.

The Internment followed in the Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

Email obituaries to pr@thewoodstockindependent.com. You may also mail them or drop them off at 671 E. Calhoun St., Woodstock, IL 60098.

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

Juanita D. Whiting

Nancy Ludwena Braun

Orrin Wayne Kinney, 83

Orrin Wayne Kinney, 83, of Harvard, Illinois, passed away surrounded by family on May 7th, 2024, at JourneyCare Hospice in Barrington, Illinois.

Orrin was born on December 24, 1940, in Momence, Illinois, to Clare and Myrna (Doehring) Kinney. He was one of five children: Doris (Shourd), Melvin, JoAnn (Schaafsma), and Gary. He married Karen Benscoter on March 10, 1962, at the First United Methodist Church in Kankakee, Illinois.

Orrin was a remarkable individual known for his unwavering dedication, creativity, and charismatic personality. He built A-OK Incorporated, a successful manufacturing business that has thrived for over 40 years. His entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering commitment not only sustained his business but also led to the restoration of the Starline Factory. When Orrin purchased the building in the early 1990s, it was only a breath away from the wrecking ball. Due to his vision and unrelenting belief in doing what others said could not

be done, Starline still stands today as an economic catalyst for the Harvard community. It serves as a testament to Orrin’s passion and commitment to preserving history and his belief that anything is possible.

Orrin is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Karen Kinney, and their two children, Eric Kinney and Melinda (Alistair) Schuldt. He was a proud grandfather to Ian and Nina Schuldt, who brought immense joy to his life. Orrin was predeceased by his son Steven, who passed away in 1996. Despite this profound loss, Orrin’s strength and dedication to his family and business never wavered.

Orrin’s family and friends remember him as a hardworking, passionate individual who had a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life. His creativity and charisma left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Orrin had a special quality that drew people to him, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him.

A celebration of Orrin’s life will be held at the Starline Factory, 300 West Front Street, Harvard, Illinois, from 2-5 PM on June 7th, 2024. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the First United Methodist Church, Harvard, Illinois.

Orrin Wayne Kinney will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who

GREAT GIFTS FOR GRADS, BY GRADS.

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

had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched throughout his life. Family and friends may sign the online guest book at

IN BRIEF

www.saundersmcfarlin.net. For more information, please call Saunders & McFarlin Funeral Home at 815-943-5400.

Two critically injured in Dean St. rollover accident

The Woodstock Fire/Rescue District was dispatched to the area of Dean Street and Gayle Drive in unincorporated Woodstock May 15 for a reported crash with entrapment.

Paramedics resuscitated an adult female who had been thrown from the vehicle. A second adult female was

extricated from the vehicle and transferred to an awaiting ambulance. One patient was transported via LifeNet helicopter from the scene. The second patient was transported via Woodstock ambulance to the Northwest Medicine Huntley Hospital where she was airlifted by REACT helicopter.

At time of transport, both patients were listed in critical condition. No other injuries were reported.

Right on the Square!

Woodstock, IL • 1987

Walk around the Square and remember

The Memorial Day Ceremony on the Square has been a part of Woodstock history for decades.

With the recent loss of a brick-andmortar Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5040 location, we are glad to see the ceremony and parade remains intact.

The collaboration between the city and the VFW has developed over the years into strong relationship with the Woodstock Opera House staff ensuring that the bandstand is ready for the events and that the sound for the ceremony is heard throughout the Square. The VFW provides the structure and itinerary that includes the participation of several local dignitaries, honored guests, and veteran and military organizations from around the county.

The Woodstock community has embraced the solemnity of Memorial Day and will come together again this Monday to remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

Another Memorial Day Woodstock tradition is the Uniform Project.

Countless years ago, Vietnam Veteran and Woodstock resident John Sorensen had an idea to honor fallen servicemen by placing uniforms in merchant store windows. What began as a few uniforms in a few windows

INDEPENDENT

U.S. Coast Guard veteran Cliff Berutti’s uniform with U.S. Army veteran Joe Kersten’s in the background sits at The Thoughtfulness Shop last Memorial Day.

grew to an increasing number of participants and a Square full of visitors.

When John took a step back from the project before he passed away, another Vietnam veteran and Woodstock resident – Butch Borchardt –took over the project for several years, hitting its largest number of participants before the COVID-19 pandemic, before he stepped down.

In recent years, citizens and merchants, not wanting the tradition to fade away, have banded together in Woodstock fashion to carry on the tradition.

Veterans, families of those who have served, and active-duty military have called individual merchants to secure a space for their or their loved one’s uniform. They have also called The

Election Night etiquette

Woodstock Independent office – because we are the source people turn to for Woodstock news.

The Uniform Project continues.

For the past two years, Matt Drennan, owner of MD Trains, and Senator Craig Wilcox, owner of The Thoughtfulness Shop, have worked tirelessly to keep this tradition alive. Picking up the pieces of what had been directed by one man for many years, the two have sought out businesses to participate and worked with one of our own Woodstock Independent staff members to connect with local veterans.

As we approach Memorial Day, we encourage our community to walk around the Square and surrounding streets to view uniforms and read the stories of those whose uniform is displayed.

The Project this year will have on display the U.S. Navy uniforms of a Medal of Honor recipient as well as uniforms representing those who have served during times of war and times of peace from WWI through the present.

As a community, we recall that Memorial Day is a day to remember those whose lives were lost in service. We are proud that Woodstock remembers.

When I was growing up and I had lost a game, I would go to my mother crying about how unfair it was, the judge got it wrong. My mother would caution me about being a sore loser; however, she would have none of my excuses, saying “You lost, so you lost, get over it. Don’t be a whiner, nobody likes a sore loser.” With those words the conversation was ended. Then she would turn to me, look me in the eye and say, “You want to win, work harder, do better next time.” The

lesson ended. During a coffee I was asked, “Will you accept the election results of the 2024 election?” I thought of my old mother. I had not expected this question in a county board race. First, we don’t have election fraud in McHenry County. Nationally, election fraud

is the least committed crime in our country. No matter what anyone tells you, facts are stubborn things. McHenry County does a good job of managing elections. Do they sometimes fumble about, of course? Nothing is perfect, however in the big picture, local elections are transparent and properly managed. My mate is a technical judge, I get to observe the process first hand. She is well-trained and supported by county staff. Of course there are breakdowns, that’s what a technical

judge is trained to manage, problems at the polling site.

Election judges are comprised, when available, of equal numbers representing both parties. Sometimes this is difficult since long time judges are resigning, retiring or simply stepping away, while new judges are slow in volunteering. In addition, parties and candidates send in poll watchers during elections. Poll watchers are governed by strict rules for being in the polling space. The technical judge makes sure

Continued on Next page

Louisett ‘Lou’ Ness Guest columnist

FILE PHOTO

Finding my way home

Every one of us living in Woodstock, except for those born here, has a story to tell. How did you end up in Woodstock?

For some, the answer would be simple: I was a child when my family moved here. But for the rest of us, those who made—or were involved in making—the decision to call Woodstock home, there will be a story.

Here is mine.

The first time I drove into Woodstock, my car seemed to find its way to the Square all by itself, as easily as if it had been there a hundred times before. At least, that’s how I remember it after all these years.

I wasn’t heading to the Square for any of the usual reasons. I wasn’t looking for the heart of town, or for a place of beauty, history, entertainment or shopping.

I was looking for a phone booth. I thought there might be one on the Square.

It was early June in 1970, and I was 23, just out of graduate school. That day I was on a mission. A college friend in Fontana had just told me there was an opening for an English teacher at Woodstock High School. I decided to check it out on my way home to Iowa. To do that, I needed to call the high school.

To be honest, I was not at all prepared to teach high school. It had been only a week since I had set aside my goal of becoming a college professor and decided to try high school instead. I hadn’t taken any education classes or student taught. I didn’t have an Illinois teaching

certificate. Even my master’s degree in English wouldn’t become official until I had taken one last exam. The only thing I did have, in abundance, was youthful optimism.

So, I had come to Woodstock. As I drove onto the Square, I spotted a phone booth in front of the Opera House. There, I dug a nickel out of my purse and made the call that would shape the rest of my life.

Caryl Dierksen

Declarations

Fifty-four years later, I am here, writing Declarations, because I dialed 338-4370 and the principal’s secretary, Fern Lindsay, answered.

“Yes,” she said, “the job is still open. In fact, we’re looking for three English teachers. Would you like to leave your number? Or would you like to come and speak with someone in person? Where are you calling from?”

I didn’t admit that I was in a phone booth, but I did accept the invitation to go over to the school.

That afternoon I filled out an application and interviewed with three people —assistant superintendent Verda Dierzen, principal Eugene Maxwell and English department chairman Jim Reinhard. I promised each that I would have my teacher certification as soon as humanly possible.

Then Mrs. Dierzen said something that gave me hope. The superintendent, Roy Habeck, liked to hire farm girls because of their strong work ethics. At least, I had my background going for me. I’m sure it also helped that they still needed not one, but three English teachers.

At some point, they put their heads together. One of them asked how long they had before they lost me to another district. I mumbled something about maybe having another interview in a week or two.

A few days later, back on the farm, I received the long-distance phone call offering me a job, pending school board approval. The same day, I applied for an Illinois provisional teaching certificate and enrolled in a full load of education classes in summer school. The next week a contract arrived in the mail. I signed and returned it immediately, before they could change their minds.

In August, I moved into an apartment on Lincoln Avenue, officially becoming a Woodstock resident. And that is my story.

Except….

What if the most important question isn’t why you came to Woodstock? Perhaps the bigger one is why you stayed.

But that would be a story for another day.

Caryl Dierksen is a retired Woodstock High School English teacher and longtime contributor to The Woodstock Independent.

Woodstock

I NDEPENDENT

Subscription rates/year

$80 in Woodstock, Bull Valley and Wonder Lake. $82 in McHenry County. $87 for snowbirds and $95 outside McHenry County.

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

Deadlines & contacts

NOON WEDNESDAY Press releases and photos pr@thewoodstockindependent com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR pr@thewoodstockindependent.com

these rules are followed.

At the poll site, no electioneering is allowed. Candidates are not allowed to have signs near or about the entrance to the voting site. Voters are not permitted to wear candidate or election position promotion items. If someone enters with any political items, the technical judge will ask them to turn it inside out, requesting they change or hide the messaging.

protect the power of the vote and the voter. The founding principle is this - no voter will be pressured or harassed in the polling site. We cast our votes in private, without the fear of recrimination, that’s a founding practice in our fragile democracy.

Now that that’s settled, let’s talk taxes. Continued from Previous page

These procedures are in place to

The aspersions cast on the 2020 elections are unfounded. It has been reported over and over from judges “the fraud allegations of 2020 elections have been determined to be unfounded, with allegations based in conspiracy not evidence.”

So, how did I answer the question? I turned and looked the person in the eye and said, “If at the end of the night on election day, the results say I have lost my bid for the McHenry County Board, I will congratulate my opponent. If on elections night the results say I have won, I will thank my opponent. The voters will have chosen, win or lose, they make the final call and I accept their choice.

NOON THURSDAY Display advertising ads@thewoodstockindependent com

NOON FRIDAY Legal notices subs@thewoodstockindependent com

Classified Ads classifieds@thewoodstockindependent com

Schools

IN BRIEF

Marian Central recognizes alumni accomplishments

Marian Central Catholic High School recently recognized a special group of alumni at their Alumni Awards Banquet in April. The event, hosted at the school, was comprised of classmates and friends celebrating each other’s achievements, and reminiscing on the time they spent at Marian.

The Distinguished Alumni Award was awarded to Mark Middendorf ‘83.

The Distinguished Alumni Award is bestowed on alumni who have made a distinct contribution to the community and serve others through Christian values.

After serving in various marketing and management positions during his successful corporate career, Middendorf experienced a significant reversion, and he answered a call to the New Evangelization, co-founding the not-for-profit organization Lighthouse Catholic Media. Currently, Mark is the President of Ave Maria University. As AMU’s president, he has taken pride in continuing to lead and trust in the mission of Catholic universities being essential to the growth of the Church.

The Alumni Excellence Award winners were Mary Wohnrade ‘79 and Marine Corps Maj. Michael Passe ‘96.

The Alumni Excellence Award is bestowed on alumni who demonstrate outstanding achievement academically, professionally, or through service to the community or church. Wohnrade founded Wohnrade Civil Engineers Inc., and is the owner and principal engineer of the firm. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her impact in the Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) industry.

With multiple deployments under his belt, Major Passe served his country with pride and bravery. Passe said, “The pride of being a Marine was worth the pain and time. I would do it all over again if I had to.”

In addition to the alumni awards, Marian Central Catholic inducted four new members to the Athletic Hall of Fame. Both known for their amazing skills

Continued on NEXT page

D-200 veteran teacher Shannon Laidig (Creekside) holds the plaque she received for overall McHenry County Educator of the Year.

Top D-200 educators honored

Creekside’s Shannon Laidig named McHenry County Educator of the Year

By Kevin Lyons DISTRICT 200

Four teachers from Woodstock Community Unit School District 200 earned recognition at the McHenry County Educator of the Year event May 11 in Crystal Lake.

The event is sponsored by Diana Hartmann, McHenry County Regional Office of Education superintendent, to honor outstanding educators in a variety of roles working in schools across the county.

Shannon Laidig, a District 200 veteran teacher now teaching math at Creekside Middle School, received the highest honor at the overall McHenry County Educator of the Year. Laidig has also taught at the elementary level and as a teaching coach.

Hartmann said Laidig stood out among the 27 outstanding

nominees for her ability to engage students. “Shanon Laidig has a welcoming classroom where every student is contributing, encouraged, and the social-emotional well-being of every student is evident.”

In addition to the recognition, Laidig also received $1,000 to use in her classroom.

“We are fortunate to have so many outstanding educators in District 200 and Shanon Laidig is an example of one of our very best,” District 200, Superintendent Mike Moan said.

“Shannon connects with her students and creates fun, engaging, and highly educational lessons on a daily basis. She works tirelessly to support her students in and out of the classroom.”

A total of 27 educators were nominated, including nine who were honored with the McHenry County Educator of the Year designation in

their respective categories.

The other designees each received $250 to spend in their classrooms. Other District 200 winners were as follows:

• Lyndra Bastian - High School Educator of the Year. Bastian is the orchestra director at Woodstock High School and Creekside Middle School.

• Georgia Wicker - Early Career Educator of the Year. Wicker is a special education teacher at Dean Street Elementary School.

• Kristine Princer - Preschool Educator of the Year. Princer is a prekindergarten teacher at Greenwood Elementary School.

“We’re always extremely proud of our teaching staff, but this is a great honor for our district and for these individuals to earn countywide recognition for their talent and dedication to their students. They are all phenomenal teachers,” Moan said.

DISTRICT 200 PHOTOS

Additional award winners: Kristine Princer (left) - Preschool Educator of the Year; Lyndra Bastian (top, between Art Vallicelli, Ryan Doyle) -High School Educator of the Year; and Georgia Wicker - Early Career Educator of the Year.

MCC recognizes spring 2024 grads at commencement

McHenry County College recognized 709 graduates at its Commencement Ceremony on May 11 in the College’s gymnasium.

Of this group of graduates, 194 earned honors or high honors with a GPA of 3.50 or greater. The students represented 78 different programs, with Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, AAS in Registered Nursing, Basic Nursing Assistant, and Emergency Medical Technician producing the most graduates.

“These students have proven to themselves that they’re able to persevere when times get tough. They’re able to set a goal and achieve it,” said MCC President Dr. Clint Gabbard. “We’re confident in their ability to take what they’ve learned here and go out into the community to make it a better place.”

Future University Center grads

MCC celebrated several graduates who will be part of the first class to continue their education through the University Center at MCC next fall. The University Center, located in downtown Woodstock, allows students to earn bachelor’s or advanced degrees close to home through partnerships with four-year universities.

“A year ago, I was worried about how I could pursue my bachelor’s degree after completing my associate degree. Being a mother of four made it difficult for me to physically attend classes far from my home,” said Hafsa Ghafoor, who graduated Saturday with her AAS in graphic arts. Ghafoor also currently works in adult education at MCC and will be pursuing her bachelor’s degree in graphic design through

the University Center at MCC in the fall. “The University Center appealed to me due to the incredible convenience and cost savings of being able to complete a top-tier, four-year degree right here in my local community,” she added.

Dual-degree recipients

The College also recognized 54 high school students (9 from Harvard High School, 11 from Woodstock High School, 16 from Woodstock North High School, and 18 from Huntley High School) who graduated from the dual degree program, meaning they earned both a high school diploma and an associate degree at the same time. This was the first dual degree graduating class from Huntley High School and the second from Woodstock D200 and Harvard CUSD50.

One of Woodstock North’s graduating students, Josue Figueroa, will continue his education at Washington University in St. Louis to study neuroscience in the fall.

“I feel very accomplished and relieved having completed high school with my diploma and an associate degree,” Figueroa said of his time in the dual degree program. “As a first-generation student, my parents played a huge role in encouraging me to participate in and stick with the program. This certificate serves as a recognition to not only my hard work, but to their support and sacrifices.”

Another dual degree student, Renee Schleutermann from Woodstock High School, will be attending the University of Louisville in the fall to major in political science and

history with a minor in Spanish on the pre-law track.

“I’m excited that I was able to be a part of such a unique program,” she said. “It’s such an accomplishment to graduate high school with a college degree. Not many people are given that opportunity. I’m very grateful and excited to use the experience at my four-year university.”

on the green, Scott Smith ‘94 and Luke Waggoner ‘12 were inducted for the success they found on the golf course at Marian and in college.

Through her 10-year career at Marian Central, Coach Deb Rakers is the winningest coach in Marian volleyball history. She brought immense success to the volleyball program, placing them on the map and creating a culture of leadership and teamwork.

Lastly, Chris Streveler ‘13 left his mark on Marian Central’s football program as the quarterback in the 2011 and 2012 seasons. He led his team to consecutive conference championships and undefeated regular seasons and now plays professionally.

Director of advancement Kaitlin Bordeaux said, “Marian is proud to recognize the hard work and dedication of the recipients in each of their respective fields and careers. Seeing so many of you come together to support and cheer on your fellow alumni ... served as a reminder of the incredible impact our graduates continue to have in the world and the shared values that guide us as a community.”

Student of the Week Saba Asghar

Saba Asghar, a Woodstock North High School junior, is the daughter of Ali and Shamim Asghar, Woodstock.

The teacher who nominated her said Saba has earned this recognition because of her daily positivity, motivation to learn, and dedication to always doing her best work.

A high honor roll student, Saba is on the WNHS math team and is a member of the Spanish National Honor Society.

Outside of school, she volunteers at the

COURTESY PHOTOS

MCC students celebrate their achievements at MCC’s Spring Commencement Ceremony on May 11.

A & E

‘See things that most of the public never has’ Opera House tours showcase history, previous renovations

By Tricia Carzoli NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Ahead of the Woodstock Opera House undergoing a three-monthslong renovation process, the staff is offering a behind-the-scenes look at some of the spaces that will be transformed with the help of the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity grant.

On Wednesday, May 29, the historic Woodstock Opera House will host tours of the historic building from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

“These curated tours will be an opportunity to see things that most of the public has never had the opportunity to see before,” Woodstock Opera House Director Daniel Campbell said. “We will take them backstage and throughout the areas that will be renovated.”

The tours, led by Opera House staff, will showcase some of the building’s rich history and discuss the anticipated renovations before ending in the community room with a cash bar and conversation.

“The Opera House is really a community-owned building,” Campbell said. “And, it is wonderful to give the community an opportunity to see the history and explore the four prior renovations ahead of the 2024 project.”

Grant funded

The City secured a Rebuild Illinois Grant for the Downtown Square & Opera House Renovation Projects in August of 2022 for $2,964,553 allowing for a comprehensive renovation.

Planned projects include restoration of 49 historic windows and two doors, upgrades to the lighting, audio, and video equipment, repair of the stage floor, the expansion of the community room, including an expanded bar and a new tin ceiling, among other planned exterior

The current construction zone in the

Ever wonder what the backstage area looks like at the Woodstock Opera House? The community is invited to a curated behind-the-scenes tour May 29 from 5 to 7 p.m.

detailing.

The South Annex project is set to include upgrades to the second floor and a third story addition. The annex will hold the new business offices, conference rooms, dressing rooms, and allow for improved ADA accessibility.

Reno schedule

The renovations are scheduled to take place beginning July 1 and be complete before the beginning of the fall season.

Campbell said he fully expects the project to be completed on time. Summer programming will take place at the Stage Left Café as well as in the City Square park.

After the tour, the community is invited to attend the launch of Karaoke Wednesdays in Stage Left Café from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY TRICIA CARZOLI

Opera House includes window renovations, already underway.

Jon and Laurel Sheahan visitied former Woodstock residents Phil and Robin Kurtz in Jamaica Beach, TX.

Take The Independent on your next vacation, take a photo, and send it to pr@thewoodstockindependent.com to be featured.

COURTESY PHOTO

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI

Martin Metzger Flamenco Ensemble performed at The Woodstock Opera House Saturday. Dancer Marisela Tapia from Spain treated the audience to authentic flamenco dancing and vibrant musical pieces.

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI Grammy-elected blues artist Michael Charles performs at Stage Left Cafe, Saturday.

EMBARK ON YOUR JOURNEY TOWARDS FINANCIAL FREEDOM

•

Alan Hafferkamp Blake Hafferkamp Brittany Hafferkamp

Business

The Food Shed Co-op made its debut on May 15, a little over ten years after the idea of a grocery store co-op was floated. At the grand opening, owner number-one, Scott Brix, said that the first thing he learned about starting a co-op was, “Don’t say when you’re going to open.”

It’s here, and it’s ours’

Food Shed Co-op now open

By Susan W. Murray NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

While almost any store opening draws excited customers who want to see a brand-new or refurbished space, take advantage of introductory specials, or just want to be part of what’s happening, something extra was noticeable when the Food Shed Co-op welcomed its first customers on May 15.

The first-day patrons - whether they had paid $200 to become part of the co-op ownership or were there as shoppers - shared two sentiments. One was a sense of accomplishment that 10 years of work had reached fruition. The second was pride that the Food Shed is the first co-op in Northern Illinois, with six more co-ops poised to open in the Chicagoland area.

Friends Ruth Scifo from Crystal Lake and Mary Mahady from McHenry were among the first group through the door. Scifo signed

up as an owner four years ago, while Mahady became an owner earlier this year.

Scifo said she was shopping for “fun and dinner.”

In her basket were flowers and chocolate for her husband; asparagus and green onions for their Wednesday night dinner, and a vegan/dairy-free/gluten-free dip for friends who visit and have dietary restrictions.

“It’s exciting to be part of this,” Mahady said.

“It’s here . . .” Scifo began, “and it’s ours,” Mahady finished.

Produce, bulk items, and more

Food Shed general manager Peter Waldmann said that highlights of the full-service grocery store are its large produce section, its two aisles of bulk items - from flour to walnuts - and the in-house food preparation.

Zac Dolezal, owner and chef at Duke’s Alehouse in Crystal Lake and Duke’s Inferno in Woodstock,

collaborated with the Food Shed to create 100 items - some grab-andgo, some for eating in the store’s indoor and outdoor dining areasincluding tomato soup, garlic hummus, and flourless chocolate cake.

Uniquely, the store takes produce that is nearing its expiration date and uses it to create prepared foods, cutting down on waste.

The Food Shed has 781 items sourced from local producers available on its shelves.

The local element is what drew Amber West to drive 45 minutes from her Ingleside home to the Food Shed with 4-year-old Bellumi and 2-year-old Wesley in tow.

“I garden myself,” West said, “and just want better food options for my kids.”

‘Keeping the vision alive’

The day began at 9:00 a.m. with a combo entertaining the crowd with the Food Shed anthem, speeches,

See Food Shed Page 14

Transactions filed in the McHenry County Recorder’s Office April 16 to 19.

■ Residence at 8713 Burton Road, Wonder Lake, was sold by Michael Stipak, Wonder Lake, to Diana Kuhlmann, Wonder Lake, for $257,000.

■ Residence at 345 Becking Ave., Woodstock, was sold by Albert J. Rhino, Crystal Falls, Mich., to Avalon Arielle Lanz, Woodstock, for $220,000.

■ Vacant land at 14502 Perkins Road, Woodstock, was sold by Calvin Kahoun, Woodstock, to Blake Kahoun, Woodstock, for $90,000.

■ Residence at 2965 Boerderij Way, Woodstock, was sold by James R. Robertson, Fairlawn, Ohio, to Aaron Wallace, Woodstock, for $410,000.

■ Residence at 2326 Aspen Drive, Woodstock, was sold by Dean Real Estate Group LLC, Crystal Lake, to Sergio Herrera Jr., Woodstock, for $260,000.

■ Residence at 551 Prairie Ridge Drive, Woodstock, was sold by Jose C. Dominguez, Crystal Lake, to Karen Gill, Woodstock, for $327,900.

■ Residences at 11111 and 11049 Dorham Lane, Woodstock, were sold by The Benjamin W. Phillips and Nancy O’Brien Phillips Revocable Family Trust, Duck, N.C., to James W.Althoff, Woodstock, for $615,000.

■ Residence at 8611 Castleberry Drive, Woodstock, was sold by Stephanie Christine Schleehauf, South Barrington, to Michael l. Olszewski, Woodstock, for $465,000.

Keefe

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI

FOOD SHED

Continued from Page 13

and the ribbon cutting.

Deputy Mayor Darrin Flynn thanked Food Shed board members and owners for their “years of keeping the vision alive.”

Scott Brix, the co-op board’s vicepresident and owner number one with wife, Kim, received the honor of having the store’s commemorative brick garden named the “Brix Garden.”

He told the assembled crowd that during the ten years between formulating the idea for the co-op and opening day, people would ask him, “Aren’t you tired of this?”

“It’s been a blast,” he said.

Getting to the $5 million needed to complete the project required signing up owners (2,305 as of May 15), conducting a $1.75 million capital campaign, and securing two grants and a loan.

Waldmann said that 75 % of construction was done with McHenry County labor, including Crystal Lake’s Gallant Building Solutions and architectural firm DDCA from

Prairie Grove. The Saxon Wood Guy (Swoog) from Crystal Lake designed the store’s produce bins and decorative wood pieces for the walls.

A jam-packed day

The Food Shed board hired Waldmann, a 30-year grocery store veteran, as general manager in January 2022. During his career, Waldmann

SPRING REFRESH

has been involved in over 100 store openings, as executive for 21 of those.

The first months were dedicated to “a lot of listening,” Waldmann said.

He worked with the architect to design a store with “good sightlines and soft lighting,” surveyed owners for comments on products and store displays, explored financial modeling and branding, and hired 35 employees to work at the store.

“Part of the goal,” he said, “was to beautify McHenry County.”

In addition to the brick commemorative garden, a pollinating garden was installed northwest of the store, and the Food Shed is accessible via the bike path that runs alongside Route 14. Additionally, a bioswale on the store’s southeast side collects rainwater that runs through pipes connected to the store’s flat roof.

A small gesture typifies the Food Shed’s community spirit. For each reusable bag that a customer brings to the checkout, he or she receives a wooden token that can be deposited into a container for one of two local charities - currently Warp Corps and Young at Heart. Food Shed will contribute a nickel to the

organization for each wooden token in its container.

As more than two years’ work reached its payoff, Waldmann called the Food Shed “a monumental milestone in the history of McHenry County.”

Once the automatic doors parted, Waldmann stationed himself just inside to admit the long line of customers in an orderly fashion, greeting each one and answering questions.

Food Shed owners are eligible to elect members to the co-op’s board, can take advantage of monthly promotions, and will receive a yearly dividend once the store is profitable. Everyone, however, is welcome to shop at the grocery store.

“The most important customer,” Waldmann said, “is the one who shops here once a week.”

CORRECTION

In the May 8 edition of The Woodstock Independent, the address for The Market by D & A was incorrectly identified as 107 N. Benton Street. The correct address for the Market by D & A is 107 N. Jefferson St.

is one of seven puppies born in January at Helping Paws. At two days old, his momma pushed him aside, and he was bottle-fed and cared for by HP staff. Now available for adoption, Adonis has been neutered, microchipped, and had all his puppy shots. He’s very social and loves staying active and meeting new people. If you are looking for a pup who is outgoing, adventurous, and super-sweet, call HP to meet Adonis and explore the world together!

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI

Lucia Manke and Cheryl Red examine the wall of produce.

Community

US Marine Corps veteran Mike Ruffner with the McHenry County Marine Corps League Detachment #1009 accepts the US flag on Memorial Day 2022.

Woodstock observes Memorial Day

By Tricia Carzoli NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Woodstock’s annual Memorial Day ceremony will be held Monday, May 27, at 10 a.m. in the City Square. The parade will follow beginning at 10:45 a.m.

The VFW Post 5040, in conjunction with the city of Woodstock, will honor those who have lost their lives in service to their country. Master of Ceremonies VFW Commander Ed Chambers said the morning will be similar to past years, but Woodstock Opera House Director Daniel Campbell said this year, the National

Anthem would be sung by Miss Woodstock, Maggie Adams.

Mayor Mike Turner, the Marine Corps League, the American Legion, Moose Lodge President Zach Olson, members of Delta Company 1/178 based out of the Woodstock Armory, Little Miss Woodstock McKenna MacAdow, and the VWF Post 5040 Patriot’s Pen award-winner Dariya Cager will be joined by parade marshal and guest speaker McHenry County Board Member Lou Ness.

This year, the wreath will be placed in front of the Sentinel Civil War Monument by VFW commanders and the mayor.

The VFW Post 5040 Honor Guard will provide the 21-volley salute and play Taps, but in a change in tradition, the ceremony will close with “America the Beautiful,” which Campbell said would add to the “solemnity of the ceremony.”

The ceremony will be followed by the Memorial Day parade whose route will take the parade into the Square on Dean Street, circle around the Square, go up Jackson Street, and continue to the Oakland Cemetery and back to the staging area.

Anyone interested in participating in the parade should contact Ed Chambers, 815-703-9000.

INDEPENDENT FILE PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI

At left: Northwood Middle School’s 8th-grade team

At right: 8th-grade FLL team at the Mt. Prospect qualifier.

Top row: Jynessa Madsen, Jordan Cheng, Jainee Dave, Brookelynn Males; Row 2: Jorge Ramos, Vic Anthony Perez, Rafael Martinez; Row 3: Dexter Parisi, Bryce Schwanke, Simon Baker

Challenge Corps first Lego League competition

By Janet Dovidio NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Students in the gifted program at Creekside and Northwood Middle schools recently competed in a First Lego League (FLL) program competition.

The First Lego League Challenge is an international competition designed to introduce students to research of a scientific and real-world challenge. They receive lists of tasks or “missions” to complete. The teams use official competition materials that include a Challenge Set and Lego electronic and mechanical components.

Retired D-200 gifted program teacher Gigi Carlson was instrumental in starting the district’s participation in the spring of 2004.

“Generous donations from District 200, and private and corporate sponsors, allowed us to get enough robots, software and laptops to start in the 2004/2005 season,” Carlson said. “We had grant support from Google, personal guidance from Brandon Frisbie and help from Wells Manufacturing when we needed to update our materials and secure laptops and a mission mat for each building.”

In the past, Creekside and Northwood have advanced teams to the state level often and achieved many successes. One team participated in the World FLL competition in Germany while another was invited to the United Nations to present their research on bird strike prevention.

Eric Hardesty serves as the current Gifted Facilitator for District 200. He emphasized that he placed a lot of focus on the innovative process and all teams came up with something unique.

“This year’s challenge was unique to FLL because there was not a problem or question to

solve,” Hardesty said. “The theme for this season was called ‘Masterpiece’ and included learning how the arts and creative fields teach us about

PHOTOS

The combined Lego League Challenger team at the Rockford qualifier competition. [N indicates Northwood students; C is Creekside students] Front row: Carter Secrist (N), Lexi Roush (N), Grace Mitchell (N). Middle: Bresden Shutt (C), Eli Jackson (C), Erik Johanson (C), Keegan Kruse (N); Top row of students: Courtney Schaal( C), Henry Graham (C), Cole Yergens (C), Max Krause (C), Elijah Steffans (C); Top: Coach Eric Hardesty. Not pictured: Greyson Harvey (C) George Erdman (N), and Esmirna Serrano (N)

how to communicate, how to engage and how to entertain an audience of any size.”

According to Hardesty, the topic was both challenging and frustrating. It allowed the students to think about how to solve problems for their own interests and develop an innovative idea, solution, or product.

Northwood’s seventh grade team liked sports, so it developed a concept for a virtual reality system that allows homebound children who were physically unable to participate to join an online sports team.

Northwood’s eighth grade team’s interest in music inspired them to create a headband/headphone system that uses your brainwaves to select a music genre or song.

“Their work and creativity earned them a Runner Up Innovation Award at the Mt. Prospect Qualifier event,” Hardesty added.

Creekside’s seventh grade team had varied interests, so they decided to work on a community project. They chose the importance of beekeeping and created a series of small pipes filled with material that would kill mites that would harm the bee colony. This project earned them a Runner Up Innovation Award at the Rockford Qualifier Event.

Creekside’s eighth grade team also had diverse interests, so they researched the mental health benefits that hobbies can offer. They developed an algorithm for an app that could help people find the right hobby for them.

“For the seventh graders it was a tremendous year of growth,” concluded Hardesty. “The eighth graders now age out of this level, so the ending is bittersweet. It’s great that Woodstock offers students who wish to continue an opportunity to grow and develop in high school.”

COURTESY

Jean Rexroat supports Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics at Dunkin’ Donuts on Eastwood Drive Friday morning, giving Deputy Asplund and Sgt. Zenk her donation.

PHOTO DETECTIVE

Many thanks to Pat and Ralph Ritter, Curtis Payne, Scott Smith, Renee Gibson, and Lauren Hoadley, who have helped us identify some of the veterans in our Memorial Day photo. The Ritters are fairly certain that the third veteran from the left is Harold Irwin. Starting fifth from the left are Bob Gibson, Hank Nulle, Larry Dhom, Charley Mathey, and Bill Lyford. Larry Dhom’s grandchildren, Scott and Lauren, confirmed his identification. Scott said that his grandfather served in the Marines during World War II and was very active in the VFW.

Curtis Payne examined the photo very carefully and discovered that going left to right, between the second soldier and Harold Irwin, is Curtis’s father, Roger, in a red shirt and dark sunglasses. Between the third and fourth soldiers, he spotted the top of his mother’s (Joyce’s) head. Curtis said that his father served in the Army and went to Korea after the war to help rebuild the country.

Thank you to our veterans and to our readers who honor them by giving us their names. If you can provide any additional information about the men in the photo, please contact our intrepid Photo Detective, Maggie Crane at MaggieC@woodstockil.info

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI

DON PEASLEY PHOTO

Happenings

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square

23

THURSDAY

BOOK READING AND DISCUSSION: FOR WOMEN GRIEVING LOSS OF A SPOUSE OR PARTNER

Read Between the Lynes

111 E. Van Buren St.

6:30 p.m.

SLC TRIVIA NIGHT - PUB

TRIVIA USA

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m.

woodstockoperahouse.com

WOODSTOCK FIRE/RESCUE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

2900 Raffel Road

7 p.m.

24 FRIDAY

ORIGINAL OPEN MIC NIGHT

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m. offsquaremusic.org

‘BEAUTY AND THE BEAST’A MOVIE SING-ALONG

Woodstock Opera House

121 W. Van Buren St.

7:30 p.m.

$10 all seats woodstockoperahouse.com

25 SATURDAY

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

woodstockfarmersmarket.org

Music: Gunslingers & Hollow Down

MELISSA O’LEARY SPLASH BASH MEMORIAL RUN

5K Run/Walk & 1-Mile Family

Water Run

Woodstock Water Works 1313 Kishwaukee Valley Road 8 a.m. 815-338-4363

WOODSTOCK WATER WORKS OPENING DAY 1313 Kishwaukee Valley Road 12 - 7 p.m.

THE NEVERLY BROTHERS: ELVIS TO THE BEATLES TRIBUTE

Woodstock Opera House

121 W. Van Buren St.

7:30 p.m.

$35 A seats, $30 B seats woodstockoperahouse.com

27 MONDAY

MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY AND PARADE Park in the Square 10 a.m.

4 TUESDAY WOODSTOCK FARMERS

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

woodstockfarmersmarket.org Music: TBA

30 THURSDAY

SLC TRIVIA NIGHT - PUB TRIVIA USA

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m.

woodstockoperahouse.com

31 FRIDAY

SINK OAR SWIM - CARDBOARD CUP REGATTA

Woodstock Water Works 1313 Kishwaukee Valley Road

5 - 9 p.m.

$20 per entry

CINEMA SIPS - ‘MONTY PYTHON AND THE HOLY GRAIL’

Woodstock Opera House

121 W. Van Buren St.

8 p.m.

$10 - movie and 1 bag popcorn

$20 VIP - premium seating, table service and unlimited popcorn woodstockoperahouse.com

JUNE

1 SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

woodstockfarmersmarket.org

Music: Nick Lee

OPERA HOUSE TOURS

Woodstock Opera House

To submit calendar items, email pr@thewoodstockindependent.com

121 W. Van Buren St.

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free woodstockoperahouse.com

3RD ANNUAL FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL

Woodstock Square 4-9 p.m.

ELTON DAN AND THE ROCKET BAND

Woodstock Opera House

121 W. Van Buren St.

7:30 p.m.

$40 A seats, $35 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

2 SUNDAY

SUNDAY ART IN THE SQUARE

Woodstock Square 4 to 7 p.m.

4 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.

Resurrection Catholic Church

woodstockil.gov

6 THURSDAY

SLC TRIVIA NIGHT - PUB TRIVIA USA

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m.

woodstockoperahouse.com

8 SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

woodstockfarmersmarket.org Music: TBA

JUDITH SVALANDER DANCE THEATRE - ‘THE SLEEPING BEAUTY’

Woodstock Opera House

121 W. Van Buren St.

2 and 7 p.m.

$25

woodstockoperahouse.com

WARP CORP YOUTH OPEN MIC

10

FLASHBACKS

35 years ago – 1989

■ The Woodstock City Council approved Woodstock School District 200’s request of an increase in school impact fees. On average, the revision meant a 500 percent increase in fees for new home construction.

■ Organizers estimated about 20,000 people came to the Square for Fair Diddley.

■ The Woodstock High School varsity baseball team tied for first place in the Fox Valley Conference. Heading into regionals, the Streaks had a 13-5 record.

30 years ago – 1994

■ WHS was setting up a 24-station interdepartmental computer lab for student use.

■ The City Council directed staff to investigate the possibility of establishing a human rights commission.

■ Andy Hartlieb joined AMCORE Bank as senior vice president and chief lending officer.

25 years ago – 1999

■ The Marian Central Catholic High School varsity baseball team defeated North Boone High School 10-0 in the first round of IHSA regional tournament play.

■ Olson Middle School math students swept the Illinois Mathematics League’s Region 18 competitions. The sixth-grade, seventh-grade, and eighth-grade teams took firsts. Math teachers at Olson were Mary Fitzpatrick, Greg Walkington, Jennifer Messmer, Andy Anderson, Susan Martinez, and Rick Morozink.

20 years ago – 2004

■ The board of Gavers Community Cancer Foundation had decided to move its annual Barn Dance fundraiser to Crystal Lake.

■ The Kishwaukee Trail Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution announced its 37th annual honors winners. DAR Good Citizens Award winners were David Widmer, WHS, and Kristen

Elizabeth Raabe, Marian Central Catholic High School. Winners in the fifth- and eighth-grade essay contest were Hilary Wolf, Grant Davis, and Tim Seiler, first place, and Taylor Schramm and Tara Owen, second place, all students at Woodstock Christian School.

15 years ago – 2009

■ Woodstock Independent subscribers and readers took The Independent with them on board a carrier and on a vacation. AT2 Adam Krejci, a 2001 WHS graduate, had his Independent on deck with him as the USS John C. Stennis CVN-74 passed through the Strait of Hormuz into the Persian Gulf. Wayne and Linda Heidtke took The Independent to Angkorwat, Cambodia.

10 years ago – 2014

■ Woodstock Harley-Davidson was

the staging location for more than 1,200 motorcyclists participating in the 27th annual Little Angels Pledge Run – an 80-mile ride through rolling countryside as far as Roscoe. The ride brought in more than $150,000.

■ Marian’s girls soccer team won an IHSA Class 2A regional by upsetting WHS, the Fox Valley Conference Fox Division champions, 1-0. Lady ’Canes’ freshman Karlie Blaz scored the only goal of the game late in the second period.

■ The WNHS Class of 2014 had 235 graduates, of which 37 graduated cum laude. The class motto was “The last piece of the puzzle.” Abigail Frasik was valedictorian.

The class was acknowledged as one of the most academically successful in school history.

5 years ago – 2019

■ Jeffrey Massman was valedictorian of the WNHS Class of 2019, which was 221 strong. Elena Thurow was salutatorian. Seventy-six percent of the graduates were planning to attend 2- or 4-year college; and six students were joining the Armed Forces.

■ The Class of 2019 at WHS had 260 graduates. Madeline Scolio was valedictorian, and Ian Dawdy was salutatorian. The class had earned more than $1.8 million in scholarship money for the first year in college. Fourteen graduates were headed into the Armed Forces.

1 year ago – 2023

■ WHS French student Reagan Zawisza, a freshman, won a gold medal in the National French Exam. “We also had a silver medal winner, three bronze medals, and seven honorable mentions,” said Andrea Isabelli, French teacher at WHS and WNHS.

■ Woodstock Classic Cinemas premiered alcohol sales under a new E-6 liquor license, which allows selling theatergoers single-serve alcoholic beverages: beer, wine, and tequila and vodka seltzers.

■ Chuck Ruth, principal organizer of American Community Bank & Trust in 1999, retired as chairman of the board. Jim Wright, recent vice chairman of the board, was named chairman. Ruth, owner of Alliance Contractors, had been involved in many community organizations.

■ WHS junior Hallie Steponaitis finished seventh in high jump in the IHSA Class 2A State Championships. Teammate Keira Bogott finished ninth in the 800-meter run. WNHS junior Ashley Janeczko finished ninth in shot put and has the distinction of being the first Thunder female to earn a state medal in track and field.

EDITORIAL CARTOON BY JIM PEARSON

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

Case No. 2024PR000119

In the Matter of the Estate of GLORIA J. HAEGER

Deceased

CLAIM NOTICE

Notice is given of the death of GLORIA J. HAEGER

Of: LAKE IN THE HILLS, IL

Letters of office were issued on: 4/29/2024

To Representative:

SUSAN E. CHAPMAN

2122 PRESWICK LN. 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 8, 2024, May 15, 2024, May 22, 2024)L11789

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on MAY 2, 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 DataViewz located at 1345 S. Shore Dr. Village of Lakewood, IL 60014. Owner Name & Address: Derek Rauchenberger 13445 S. Shore Dr. Village of Lakewood, IL 60014.

Dated: MAY 2, 2024 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk)

(Published in The Woodstock

Independent May 8, 2024, May 15, 2024, May 22, 2024)L11790

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice of Self-Storage Sale

The Storage Space LLC, 945 Dieckman St., P.O. Box 1873, Woodstock, IL 60098, must receive the delinquent amount of $790.00 for rental of unit #6 at 945 Dieckman St.. Woodstock, IL 60098 name Andrew Kelley. Or contents will be sold (no auction) or disposed of on 5/24/24 at 10:00 a.m. at 945 Dieckman St., Woodstock, IL 60098. Contents: Books, Magazines, Video tapes, Encyclopedias, TV, Tape deck, Suitcases, Desk lamp, Shoes, Coffee maker, Newspapers, Crib mattress, Paper towels, Cookbooks, Pictures and Frames, Misc. items, and Bags, tubs and boxes contents unknown and other general household.

(Published in The Woodstock Independent May 8, 2024, May 15, 2024) L11791

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on APRIL 30, 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 STONEY LAKE LANDSCAPING located at 21011 ROUTE 14 HARVARD, IL 60033. Owner Name & Address: LUZ SANTIAGO 21011 ROUTE 14 HARVARD, IL 60033.

Dated: APRIL 30, 2024 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk)

(Published in The Woodstock Independent May 15, 2024, May 22, 2024)L11792

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on MAY 8, 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 SK LEATHER located at 24317 ANTHONY RD. MARENGO, IL 60152. Owner Name & Address: STEVE KOELM AND JESSICA KOELM 24317 ANTHONY RD. MARENGO, IL 60152.

Dated: MAY 8, 2024 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk)

(Published in The Woodstock Independent May 15, 2024, May 22, 2024)L11794

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on MAY 10, 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 SARAH FAITH PHOTOGRAPHY located at 4707 JOYCE LANE MCHENRY, IL 60050. Owner Name & Address: SARAH FAITH 4707 JOYCE LANE MCHENRY, IL 60050.

Dated: MAY 10, 2024 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk)

(Published in The Woodstock Independent May 22, 2024)L11795

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.

Ashley is a four-year-three-sport athlete at Woodstock North. In her final track and field season, she represented the Thunder at the state meet in shot put and discus, earning a third-place medal in shot. She ends her season holding school records in both events. Ashley was a starter on the girls basketball team and an integral part of the girls swim team. All of her coaches commented that, aside from her athletic talents, “She is kind, cares about others and is invested in their success.” At the senior athletic banquet, Ashley was awarded the Sportsmanship Award and John Swanship Scholarship Award. She will continue her athletic and educational career at the University of Dubuque.

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.

Chris Nickels, 8, Woodstock, looks over the Farmer’s Market display attractively presented by Sonja Brook from Brook Farm, Harvard, in 1982.

Don Peasley Photo Collection, McHenry County Historical Society

Sports

North’s Ashley Janeczko earns bronze

WNHS, WHS, and Marian girls make medal runs at state track and field meet

By Dan Chamness NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Sometimes, an athlete just knows.

Ashley Janeczko, a Woodstock North senior, did. She knew as soon as she released the shot put in her final throw in the preliminary flight, it was going pretty far.

Not only did it travel 11.74 meters, the best throw of her life, it was good enough for third place at the Illinois High School Association Class 2A State Championships.

“When I walked into the ring, I told myself to give it all,” said Janeczko. “I took a deep breath and threw. I knew as soon as it left my hand it was going to be a great throw. I want to personally thank my coaches for pushing me to be my best and supporting me through my years of competing in track and field in high school.”

Following her third place performance in the shot put, the athlete, who will continue her track career at the University of Dubuque, finished 12th in the discus. She finished with a throw of 33.38 meters. She was 1.12 meters from earning a medal and all-state ranking in the event. Sherrard sophomore Saidie Shemek finished as the final all-stater in the discus with a throw of 34.50 meters.

Woodstock North opened in 2008. In that 16-year history, only Janeczko has collected an all-state medal in girl’s track. She has two of them in the shot put, as she was ninth one year ago.

“Ashley was focused and concentrated on moving up on the podium,” said Cas Creighton, Woodstock North’s head coach. “She prepared herself well, put in the work and dominated all season.”

WHS’s Steponaitis medals

In Class 2A, two Woodstock Blue Streak athletes, one of whom will have a chance to add to their resume in one year, earned all-state rankings.

Hallie Steponaitis earned fourth place in the high jump with a leap of 1.58 meters. Since her freshman season, she has been an all-stater three times. She was seventh in 2023 and fourth in 2021.

“I feel like I have come full circle,”said Steponaitis, who will enter the University of Iowa academically and be a Hawkeye volleyball player as well. “I would have loved to be in the top three through. On the final jump of my career, I could have been a little more efficient.”

Woodstock North’s Ashley Janeczko stands in the No. 3 spot on the medal stand, earning bronze in shot put at the state finals May 18.

“We could not be happier for Hallie,” said Jon Brown, Woodstock’s head coach. “It is amazing to have two all-state athletes. We have four athletes that advanced to a state that will return in one year.”

Amina Idris hurdles to 8th

Amina Idris, a junior hurdler, will have an opportunity to improve upon her eighth-place finish next year. She finished the 300-meter hurdles in 46.99 seconds. She will have plenty of returning company next year as only one of the top nine athletes who earned all-state status in Class 2A is a senior. Seven are juniors and one is a sophomore.

She was less than one second from finishing second in the race. While Tinley Park junior Gabby Graham ran away from the field to win in :46.56, second place, senior Kyla Barker of Dalton Thornridge finished in :46.24.

Other athletes were fortunate enough to advance to the state championships, but either did not place or did not advance from the prelims. Woodstock,

Woodstock North, and Marian Central Catholic were all represented in the prelims. Both the Blue Streaks and the Thunder competed in the IHSA Class 2A Division, which was contested on Friday, while Marian Central Catholic competed in Class 1A on Thursday. The results of the prelims are as follows.

Blue Streak junior Sophia Mendoza finished 19th individually in the prelims of the 400-meter dash, crossing the finish line in 1:01.57. She was also the first leg of the WNHS 1,600-meter relay, which took 20th in 4:11.26. She teamed with Idris, Mia Foss, and Sophia Sarabia. Foss and Sarabia are sophomores and all four will return next year.

In the field events, Anna Crenshaw took 12th in the shot put. She threw 10.57 meters. The senior missed a medal by mere inches as Chillothe-based Illinois Valley Central’s Lizzy Short took ninth with 10.90 meters.

Woodstock’s Amina Idris hurdles to an eighthplace finish in the 300m hurdles.

Marian Central results

In Class 1A, Marian Central Catholic’s Amelia Reiche finished her prep career by competing in the long jump and the 800-meter relay on Thursday. Individually, the senior recorded a leap of 4.88 meters, which was good for 18th.

“I was happy to advance to state, but I wish I had

See STATE TRACK, Page 27

COURTESY PHOTO

PHOTO BY DAN CHAMNESS

BASEBALL

■ May 11 - Woodstock (8-16) fell to Crystal Lake Central (12-14) 9-0.

■ May 11 - Woodstock (8-17) fell to Crystal Lake Central (13-14) 9-4.

■ May 11 - Marian (9-20) defeated Timothy Christian (13-12) 12-11.

■ May 13 - Marian (10-20) defeated Johnsburg (6-25) 2-1.

■ May 14 - Woodstock (8-18) fell to Dundee-Crown (4-29) 9-0.

■ May 14 - Woodstock North (7-18-1) fell to Crystal Lake South (17-12) 15-0.

■ May 15 - Woodstock North (7-19-1) fell to Crystal Lake Central (14-14) 3-1.

NN SCOREBOARD NN

■ May 15 - Marian (11-20) defeated Richmond-Burton (19-11) 6-4.

■ May 15 - Woodstock (8-19) fell to Harvard (7-19) 16-15.

■ May 16 - Woodstock North (7-20-1) fell to Grayslake North (19-11) 13-2.

■ May 17 - Woodstock (8-20) fell to Kaneland (18-11) 10-0.

■ May 18 - Marian (11-21) fell to North Boone (25-8) 4-3.

SOFTBALL

■ May 10 - Marian (12-11) fell to Bishop McNamara (17-9) 7-0.

■ May 10 - Marian (12-12) fell to Bishop McNamara (18-9) 8-0.

■ May 11 - Woodstock North (18-8) defeated Hampshire (16-12) 3-2.

■ May 11 - Woodstock (2-20-1) defeated Round Lake (0-15) 13-7.

■ May 14 - Marian (13-12) defeated Winnebago (10-14) 12-9.

■ May 15 - Woodstock (2-21-1) fell to Woodstock North (19-8) 17-1.

■ May 16 - Woodstock (3-21-1) defeated Crystal Lake South (2-25) 16-3.

GIRLS SOCCER

■ May 10 - Marian (10-3-1) defeated Marengo (3-16-1) 3-0.

■ May 14 - Marian (10-4-1) fell to Johnsburg (14-4) 4-3.

■ May 15 - Woodstock North (9-13) defeated Plano (2-19) 8-0 in the IHSA Regional Semifinal.

■ May 15 - Woodstock (9-11-1) fell to Sycamore (17-8) 2-0 in the IHSA Regional game.

LACROSSE

■ May 16 - Marian (2-12) fell to Crystal Lake Central (14-3) 19-1 at the end of the season.

BOYS TENNIS

■ May 18 - Woodstock finished second at the IHSA sectional. Sophomore Marc Cheng advances to state in singles. Seniors Liam Hanson and Devon Oliveira advance to state in doubles.

School boys tennis player Ben Vanderville was misidentified as Ben Vanderbilt in the group photo. In the individual photo, Marc Cheng was mislabeled as a junior. He is a sophomore.

‘A band of brothers’

Woodstock and Woodstock North send boys to state track meet

By Sandy Kucharski SANDY@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Most sports teams have a familytype atmosphere between the athletes, but Woodstock and Woodstock North high schools take that idea one step further. Between the two schools there are three sets of brothers – as well as three non-related athletes – who will be heading to the state track and field finals this week.

Both teams competed in the Class 2A Norridge Sectionals last week, and both teams ended the day with state qualifiers.

Woodstock High School

The Blue Streaks will be sending seven athletes to compete in six events, covering the track and the field events.

On the track, senior sprinter Nolan Van Hoorn ran his fastest time ever (11.01) in the 100m at sectionals finishing fourth, but under qualifying time,

STATE TRACK

Continued from Page 25

jumped a little better,” said the Hurricane senior. “Running on the Blue Oval at Eastern Illinois University has been a long-term dream and I am happy I finally got to accomplish it. I worked long and hard to get here. I thought long and hard about competing in college, but I decided to focus on my academics at the University of Arkansas.”

She ran the anchor leg of the 800meter relay, which took 25th in 1:52.55. The other three members of the Hurricane relay team were Jenna Remke, Kaitlyn Remke, and Kalia Parris. All three are slated to return next year.

In the 300-meter hurdles, Kaitlyn Remke, a junior, took 26th in :52.72.

“We have three of four athletes returning in one year,” said Steve Thomas, Marian Central Catholic’s head coach. “It was a learning experience, but the girls learned it takes a very high level of commitment to get here. We expect to get two relays back here next year.”

earning him a trip to state.

Twin brothers Aryan and Ishan Patel will make their final visit to state, each running in two events.

Aryan qualified with second place in the 800m (1:58.83), and Ishan championed the 1,600m (4.26.98) at sectionals.

The two will then join forces with the Shutt brothers in the 4x800 relay. The Patels, along with sophomore Ellery Shutt, and senior Cohen Shutt, won the distance relay at sectionals, running 8:05.03.

In the field, sectional shot put champion senior Tyler Moon (15.61m) looks to get on the medal stand at state.

And senior Charlie Gilmore, second at sectionals with a leap of 1.85m, will compete in the high jump.

Woodstock North

The two Thunder state qualifiers make up the final pair of brothers heading to Eastern Illinois University this weekend.

Senior Landan Creighton pulled out his career best triple jump (12.96m) at sectionals, placing third, but meeting the qualifying standards for the event to earn him a final trip to state. A versatile athlete, Landan has qualified in the past for pole vault and 300m hurdles.

His younger brother, sophomore Braelan Creighton, following Landan’s lead, qualified in pole vault at 3.58m for his first trip to state.

Competition against the best in the state will run May 23 to 25 at EIU, Charleston.

Marian Central Catholic

Marian competed in the IHSA Class 1A Winnebago sectional May 15. No athletes advanced to state.

The 4x200 relay team (Abel Arce, Luke Aragona, Wilson Jakubowicz, Nathan Sarfo) just missed qualifying, placing third (1:36.44).

TOURNAMENT TRIUMPH

Streaks order up a single and double for state tennis

On May 18 the Woodstock High School tennis team finished second at the IHSA sectional and also qualified three players for the state tournament. The Blue Streaks No. 1 singles player, sophomore Marc Cheng advanced to state in singles. The No. 1 doubles team of seniors Liam Hanson and Devon Oliveira will play in the doubles portion of the tournament to be held May 23-25 at Palatine High School and surrounding area courts.

WORTH NOTING:

Rishling record

Woodstock North senior soccer player Addy Rishling set a new WNHS record for career goals scored last week, hitting at total of 70 goals.

Thunder softball record

The Woodstock North softball team hit an all-time high this week, totally 20 wins in a season and setting a new WNHS record.

The Woodstock Heat 10u team won the KRC Futures tournament in mid-May by going 4-0 over May 10-11 and beating the Richmond Jr. Rockets in the championship with a walk off, bases-loaded double in extra innings to win the title.

Pictured: (front row) Mekhi Holloway, Austin Lorenzo, Mason Lenzi, and Jace Hanlin (2nd row) Jacob Camara, Casey Azarela, Joan Carranza, Dylan Kunde, Michael Clarke, Levi Mecum, Merrik Fourdyce and Brantley Sorensen (3rd row) Coaches Jose Camara Santiago, Mike Clarke, Dan Mecum, Ryan Azarela, and Ethan Creighton.

COURTESY PHOTO