Woodstock Independent 7/3/24

The Woodstock

I NDEPENDENT

A&E

Talented students perform “Shrek the Musical Jr.”

Hitting

the ground running

The search is on to find Waldo all over Woodstock

By Eileen Millard NEWS@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

It’s been a busy two months for Woodstock’s new Parks & Recreation Director Mark Pentecost. He was hired in April to have some time to work with outgoing director Dave Zinnen, who retired in May after a 27-year tenure. Pentecost’s background includes seven years in the

Park District of Hanover Park; 14 years in different roles with the Belvidere Parks Department, including executive director; and his most recent position as director of operations with the Kane County Forest Preserve. Since his arrival, he has been busy acquainting himself with Woodstock’s parks and recreation locations and facilities and getting to know his staff members. He said he especially

WOODSTOCK ROYALTY

appreciates the impressive institutional memory of many senior staff who have been at their posts for 15 years or more.

He also started amid several major construction and renovation projects, such as the Intergenerational Inclusive Playground in Emricson Park, the Melissa O’Leary SplashPad project, and major renovation work at the

By Lisa Kunzie NEWS@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

It was a shining moment for Anne Victoria Perez as she was crowned this year’s Miss Woodstock at the annual pageant’s Diamond Anniversary June 27. Accompanying Perez on the Woodstock High School stage, 12-year-old Gia Galli shimmered with excitement when her name was announced as the 2024 Little Miss Woodstock. More than 20 past Miss Woodstock queens attended the evening’s program to commemorate the 75th annual event.

From left, 2023 Miss Woodstock Maggie Adams, 2024 Miss Woodstock Anne Victoria Perez, 2024 Little Miss Woodstock Gia Galli, and 2023 Little Miss Woodstock McKenna McAdow sparkle at the Diamond Anniversary of the Miss Woodstock Pageant.

PENTECOST

Woodstock Recreation Center.

Park services to all residents

Pentecost strongly believes in affordable and accessible recreational opportunities for everyone. “Some of the things that attracted me to (Woodstock) was that they had such a forward-thinking philosophy on ensuring affordable and accessible recreation for all,” Pentecost said.

The Intergenerational Inclusive Playground is an exercise of exceeding the normal ADA requirements, he added, so that people of all ages and abilities will be “able to interact and play together. It goes beyond accessibility and into that conversation of total inclusion.“

Access also means assuring that all Woodstock residents continue to be close to a park or recreation facility, he said. He noted that Woodstock scores well compared to some other municipalities as to how close any given neighborhood is to at least one park or recreation facility.

Protecting park trees

Among the assets in Woodstock’s park system is what Pentecost calls “a strong historical effort of protecting the canopy, allowing the regrowth … of that timber structure, which is great.”

He spoke of the view looking out at the Dream Field in Emricson Park. “It’s not too often that you’ll see an athletic complex that has an old-growth stand of oak trees. That’s a testament to the planning efforts and how long, how far back, they go, trying to protect those resources.

PUBLIC SAFETY LOG

Woodstock Police Department

■ Juvenile, 16, Woodstock, was arrested June 12 at South Eastwood Drive and Lake Avenue on charges of leaving the scene of an accident, following too closely. Released on notice to appear. Court date June 27.

■ Christoper D. Lundsten, 47, Woodstock, was arrested June 11 at Walden Oaks Drive on charges of violation of bail bond/family member. Transported to McHenry Co. Jail. Court date TBD.

■ Travis J. Dodaro, 23, Woodstock, was arrested June 12 at Prairie View Lane on charges of disorderly conduct (fighting in public). Cited and released. Court date July 11.

“In McHenry County, in general, the Conservation District has (also) done an excellent job of protecting those resources and planning around those for the future,” he added.

Outside, 365 days a year

Pentecost is also on a mission to get people outside all 365 days of the year, not just in the summer. “Even in wintertime, when it’s cold, I like to see people out recreating, whether its outdoor ice arenas, or cross-country skiing, or whatever that might be.”

Pentecost said that the Walking Path in Emricson Park, one of the major accomplishments under Zinnen’s leadership, helps the cause by providing a place to go walking or cross-country skiing in the winter.

Rec center renovation

When asked if the upcoming renovation of the Recreation Center will

■ Zachary K. Dodaro, 25, Woodstock, was arrested June 12 at Prairie View Lane on charges of disorderly conduct (fighting in public). Cited and released. Court date July 11.

■ Jasmine M. Caldwell. 33, Woodstock, was arrested June 13 at Van Buren Street on charges of retail theft. Cited and released on notice to appear. Court date June 27.

■ Alejandro A. Zavala Ramirez, 23, Woodstock, was arrested June 13 at Joseph Street on charges of wanted on outstanding warrants (aggravated battery) and failure to appear). Transported to McHenry Co. Jail. Court date July 16.

■ Justin M. Motejzik, 30, Marengo, was

add on any space, Pentecost said, “I’m not sure yet … the grant itself was applied … largely for infrastructure issues … that are non-negotiable.”

The list includes repair and replacement of the roof over the gymnasium; humidity control issues in the indoor pool; locker room renovations; ADA issues concerning access and egress; and universal restrooms.

“One (additional) issue … is to improve the parking area … for some accessibility issues, and to try and get water to sheet off the parking area (after heavy rains).”

Challenges during construction

“Some of the things we are contending with … when we go under construction … is how do you continue to provide those services, without seeing major disruption, of people being able to go to the fitness center, recreate in our pool, our gym,” said Pentecost.

arrested June 13 at South Jefferson and East Judd streets on charges of disorderly conduct (fighting in public). Cited and released. Court date July 11.

■ Colin B. Imjhof, 35, Woodstock, was arrested June 13 at South Jefferson and East Judd streets on charges of disorderly conduct (fighting in public). Cited and released. Court date July 11.

■ Sabrina W. Anderson, 35, Woodstock was arrested June 14 at Dean Street and Davis Road on charges of expired registration, operating an uninsured motor vehicle and no valid drivers license. Released on notice to appear. Court date July 25.

“Those are things that we are still investigating, trying to find maybe an alternative location that will allow us to either relocate temporarily or for a longer period of time.”

Fitness Court campaign

Being built alongside the Intergenerational Inclusive Playground is a Fitness Court, featuring circuit training equipment that can remain out in the elements year-round, such as resistance training equipment. Part of the draw will be the ability to compete with people across the country who are using the same Fitness Court model.

“I had done this five years ago in Belvidere, so there could actually be some competition here in the future, between Woodstock and Belvidere,” Pentecost said.

From his work experience in other municipalities, Pentecost remarked that there are “fewer and fewer municipal pools.” Cities such as Marengo and Belvidere don’t have their pools anymore, he noted. “(It’s) the expense, and then you get to the point when it’s outlived its life, it’s a super expensive capital campaign.”

The best part

When asked about his favorite part of working in his field, Pentecost said, “I really enjoy having the interaction with the community. Being involved in that decision-making that increases the quality of life … understanding the needs .. and what is in the best interest. I love the planning; I love the implementation of those plans and making sure these infrastructures are there for generations to come.”

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

Woodstock Fire/Rescue District

EMS calls for June 13-June 19: 77

Fire runs

Structure fire: 1

Extrication, rescue: 1

Electrical wiring/equipment problem: 5

Public service assistance: 7

Cover assignment/Stand by at fire station: 5

Dispatched and canceled en route: 2

Wrong location, no emergency found: 1

System or detector malfunction: 5

Unintentional system/detector (no fire): 6

Total: 106

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY EILEEN MILLARD

New Parks and Recreation Director Mark Pentecost stands at the worksite of the Intergenerational Inclusive Playground in Emricson Park.

Come see our large selection of in

PICTURE THIS

The McHenry County Historical Society & Museum marks its 38th Annual Heritage Fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, July 14, 2024, at the Museum, 6422 Main Street in Union. Highlights include free museum admission all day, vintage car show, Garden Glitz summer plant sale, vintage sale of one-of-a-kind items, books, a silent auction of rare items, and children’s educational activities and games. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from vendors.

Pearl Allen, Miss Woodstock, leads the Woodstock Centennial parade on Benton Street aboard the City of Woodstock float with her court in 1952. Members of her court were Marge Beardsley, Margery Peet, Phyllis Delchstetter, LaVerne Berlin, Joan Ronning, Evelyn Williams, Pat Haager, Elaine Hildebrandt, and Audrey Fourman.

Don Peasley Photo Collection, McHenry County Historical Society

Carol Staiger Ellinghausen, 87

Carol Staiger Ellinghausen passed away June 16 at Northwestern McHenry Hospital at the age of 87 from complications due to Alzheimers. She was born in Chicago on January 4, 1937, to Louis and Helen Staiger, who had emigrated to the U.S. from Germany in the 1920s. Carol graduated near the top of her class at Taft High School in 1955. She went on to receive a BA degree in elementary education from Valparaiso University and began her career teaching second grade at Parkview School in Morton Grove.

Dylan Ellinghausen, sister Evelyn Schietzelt, as well as many nieces and nephews. Celebration of life services will be scheduled by the family in the weeks to come. Please visit www.davenportfamily.com.

Carol Staiger Ellinghausen

Albert George ldeler, 96

Born: April 19, 1928 Died: June 23, 2024

Albert George Ideler, 96, of Woodstock passed away peacefully at home on June 23, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He lived a very long, happy and healthy life, and in his own words, “everyone should be so lucky.”

proud of. His greatest joy was watching the little ones play and run around his large, beautiful backyard when they came to visit, which to his great pleasure, was very often. He was always there to lend a helping hand wherever he was needed. All of his children and grandchildren have some beautiful wooden pieces of furniture in their homes that were made by his loving hands, which will be forever treasured. He was adored and known as opa to all.

Carol married Ed Ellinghausen in 1960 and they were married for nearly 64 years. She stopped teaching to be a full-time mom when children came along. The family moved to Crystal Lake in 1965 where she worked as the office manager at Ed’s business and volunteered at numerous institutions, including Lutheran General Hospital, Woodstock Memorial Hospital, South Elementary School Learning Center, the First Congregational Church’s Church Mouse Shop, and the Environmental Defenders. She also tutored Laotian immigrant children and served as treasurer of the Boone Creek Watershed Alliance.

Carol enjoyed biking, skiing, tennis, camping, cooking, and gardening. She enjoyed living in the woods of Bull Valley in a house she and Ed designed and built in 1987. Carol spent many happy summer days with Ed sailing on the lakes of the Midwest and enjoyed living on a sailboat in Palmetto, Florida, during the winters.

Carol is survived by her husband Ed, children Janice Elise Ellinghausen (Don Solarz), Tom Ellinghausen (Katherine), grandchildren Graham Ellinghausen and

He was born on the family farm in Bonrechtern, Germany, on April 19, 1928, to Johanna and Anton Ideler. In his mid-twenties he left Germany and immigrated to the United States to start his new life.

He was sponsored by an old family friend, a landscaper in Crystal Lake, who helped bring him to Woodstock. Once he was settled and had a steady job he sent for Leni, his fiancé, who then came to the United States as well. They were married in Johnsburg, IL, on November 12, 1955, by a German speaking priest.

Albert was a loving husband, father, opa and opapa. He was a very talented carpenter and woodworker, becoming his lifelong career, which he loved. He built his own home in Woodstock, raising his family there and staying in that house until his last day. He was also an avid gardener who had a large yard and vegetable garden which he was very proud of.

He was an active member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Woodstock, using his talents to build some beautiful wooden pieces that are still being used in the church today. He was very active in the Knights of Columbus, also serving as Grand Knight for a number of years. He was a proud union member of Carpenters Local #2087 for over 30 years, serving on the board for many years as both President and Vice President.

After retiring, he and his wife, Leni, enjoyed many wonderful trips around the US, including Alaska and Hawaii, visiting family in Germany, and spending the month of March in Fountain Hills, Arizona, for 25 years.

Albert’s biggest passion was his family. After raising their 4 children, he jumped right into the role of opa to their 8 grandchildren and then opapa to their 20 great grandchildren, a number he was extremely

Albert was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Leni, in January 2021, and his siblings, Adele, Clara, Clemens, Mia, and Theresia.

He is survived by his brother Alois (Carol) Ideler, his four children Edgar Ideler, Rita (Ray) Caywood, Monica (Dan) Starck and Maria (Paul) Sandall, 8 grandchildren, Elizabeth (Eric) Sullivan, Amanda (Mike) Rindt, Jessica (Adam) Estrada, Justine (Jonathan) O’Brien, Jason (Katie) Starck, Nathan (Kali) Starck, Tanner (Jessica) Sandall, Travis (Caitlin) Sandall. 20 great grandchildren, Logan, Caleb and Bentley Sullivan, Shylee, Braelyn and Della Rindt, Dakota and Easton Estrada, Bria, Weston, Shelby and Chase O’Brien, Bailey, Helena and McCabe Starck, Carson, Belle and Carter Starck, Blakely and (baby boy coming in August) Sandall and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held on Thursday, June 27, 2024 from 11:30 am until 1:00 pm at the Schneider Leucht Merwin Cooney Funeral Home, 1211 N. Seminary Avenue, Woodstock. The Funeral Mass was celebrated at 1:30 PM at St. Mary Catholic Church, 312 Lincoln Avenue Woodstock. Interment followed in Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Woodstock.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be made to Journey Care (Hospice) Foundation, journeycare.org/donate.

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

Lawrence A. Macheroux, 83

Lawrence A Macheroux, 83, of Woodstock passed away at home surrounded by family on June 28, 2024.

Larry was born in Elgin, IL, to Harry and Esther Macheroux on April 3, 1941. He was raised in Woodstock, IL. Larry enlisted in the United States Navy in 1959 where he served aboard the USS Lancing and the USS Canberra.

Larry proudly served his country during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He married his hometown sweetheart Mary Berryman in 1962. After the Navy he returned to Woodstock and was hired by Woodstock Police Department, serving from 1967-1971. He then went on to advance his career in law enforcement with the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office from 1971-1997. Throughout his time at the Sheriff Offices, he was promoted from Patrol to Detectives. He served the community for many years as Sergeant of Detectives at the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office.

Larry learned to play the accordion at the young age of 10. He enjoyed playing in a family band; with his mom on drums and a family friend on guitar. They played many nights at the former Twinkling Star Bar on Rose Farm Road. He continued to play accordion and piano while his daughters were growing up, and they laughed while dancing to his honkey tonk tunes. Many grandchildren have had the chance to enjoy his music also.

During his retirement he enjoyed traveling with his wife to numerous National Parks. Larry was a loving and devoted family man who also had a special love for his pet dachshunds. He was an amazing woodworker/craftsman who treasured making one-of-a-kind gifts for friends and family. Larry has spent many years serving on the McHenry County Fair Board and was recognized as a Friend of the Illinois County Fair recipient. Larry spent his lifetime serving our country and his local community.

Larry is survived by his loving wife Mary Macheroux, of 61 years, and his five daughters, Katherine (Mike) Wever, Robin (Dan) Luckey, Kim Farley, Debbie (Jim) Welker and Jennie Arndt (Jim Militello).;twelve grandchildren, David (Jen) Beirau, Dana Beirau Wright, Troy Luckey (Rocio Morales), Trever (Kaitlyn) Luckey, Trent (Erica) Luckey, Todd (Catherine) Wever, Alex Wever, Brad (Kara) Wever, Andrew Arndt, Austin Arndt, Cody Welker, Cheyenne Welker. He is also blessed with having fourteen great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Ester Macheroux, and a son-in-law, Thomas Farley.

A visitation will be held on Monday, July 8, 2024 at the Schneider Leucht Merwin Cooney Funeral Home, 1211 N. Seminary, Woodstock from 3:00 to 7:00 pm with a Funeral Service held at 7:00 pm. Interment services will be private.

Memorial may be made in his honor to the McHenry County 4-H Youth Foundation, P.O. Box 1430 Woodstock, IL 60098.

Albert George Ideler

Lawrence A. Macheroux

Patricia Pierce, 90

Patricia Pierce, 90, of Woodstock, died on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at Valley Hi Nursing Home in Woodstock.

She was born in McHenry on March 10, 1934, to Henry and Rosina Wohlert. She graduated from McHenry High School and always stressed the importance of an education. On September 17, 1955, she married James R. Pierce Jr. of Woodstock.

They settled the family in Woodstock and raised four children. They opened Pierce’s Little Store, working every day, side by side, for many, many years; enjoying visiting with all the customers, many who then became friends.  She was a fixture at Little League games and swim meets, greeting all the kids at the concession stands. She was a loyal member at St. Mary Catholic Church. She was an involved mother in her children’s activities at school at St. Mary and Marian Central. In her later years, she volunteered as a Religious Education teacher at St. Mary Church. She lived a full and happy life dedicated to the service of others.

She is survived by three children Daniel, David and Debra; grandchildren Jessica, Megan (Hatter), Lauren and Katy; her sister Donna (Mathew) Wolf; sisters-in-law Sharon Wohlert, Marie Wohlert and Jan Pierce; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter Denise, brothers Harold, Richard, and sister Nancy.

Visitation was Wednesday, June 26, 2024, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm with a Liturgical

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Perez, sponsored by D&A Salon Apothecary, will be a senior at Woodstock High School this year. Galli, sponsored by Platform 108, will be a seventh grade student at Northwood Middle School.

For the past 75 years, the Miss Woodstock Scholarship Pageant has mentored young women and awarded scholarships. Hosted by the Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry, the pageant aims to provide opportunities for women to discover their

Prayer service at 6:00 pm at the Schneider Leucht Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home, 1211 N Seminary Ave, Woodstock. Funeral Mass was celebrated on Thursday, June 27, 2024 at 10:30 am at St. Mary Catholic Church, 312 Lincoln Avenue, Woodstock. Interment was in Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Woodstock.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Mary Education Fund would be appreciated.

For additional info, see our website at www.slmcfh.com.

Myra Richardson, 100

Myra Richardson, age 100, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2024, at the Valley Hi Nursing Home in Woodstock, IL.

Pennsylvania, near his family, for two years before moving permanently to Woodstock, Illinois. They were charmed by the little midwestern town with its brick-paved city square, parks, famous opera house, and friendly community.

and Scheduling Manager.

For many years, Myra was fondly known as Woodstock’s “cake lady”, for her beautiful cake creations for all occasions, including birthdays, weddings, and graduations. She often called this avocation her “hobby gone wild”. She also provided catering services for a great number of family, organizational, and business events in the McHenry County area.

Myra Claraine Sorbo was born December 13, 1923, in Winnebago County, Iowa, the daughter of Knut N. and Mathilde (Weblemoe) Sorbo. Myra was raised and attended schools in Emmons, Minnesota, and Lake Mills, Iowa. After graduating from Teacher’s College in Ames, IA, she taught in multiage schoolhouses in Bristol and Silver Lake, IA. She had a life-long commitment to teaching students of all educational levels, from early childhood education to community college.

Ron graduated from DeVry Technical School, Chicago and went on to work as a Quality Control Manager at Admiral TV in Harvard, IL. Myra had a variety of jobs in Woodstock. She continued her teaching career with private tutoring of grade school children. In 1956, she became the first policewoman for the city, directing traffic and serving as a crossing guard for school children at Woodstock’s busiest intersections. She was also employed as Director of Activities for the Olson Play Park, where many of the towns’ children enjoyed activities including, sports, games, parades, art, and storytelling during busy summer months.

On July 4, 1945, Myra married Ronald Eugene Richardson in Emmons. They met on a train traveling to California during World War II. Ron served as a Tech Sergent, Rawdioman in the US Army Air Corps, flying missions on Liberator bombers in North Africa. Myra and Ron lived in

In addition to raising her own children, Myra was actively engaged in volunteer work for the American Red Cross, the Girl and Boy Scouts, and her church. She worked in occupational therapy in the McHenry Nursing Home and was later hired to be the Director of Activities at the Woodstock Residence Nursing Home. Because of her extraordinary talents with cooking and baking, she was hired by the McHenry County College to teach gourmet foods and cake decorating classes. Myra’s adult students became devout food and baking enthusiasts and loved her classes. In the 1970s, Myra sponsored a family from the Philippines, who came to the US and became part of the Woodstock community. At age 65, Myra went back to school, graduating from McHenry County College with an Associate degree in Business Management. She worked in the McHenry County Health Department as a Business Office

Myra is survived by her children, Mona Otten, Ronald Gene Richardson, Christine Richardson, and Lou Ann Richardson; her sister-in-law Betty Sorbo; many grandchildren and great grandchildren; many nephews and nieces, including her niece and godchild Shirley Hanson; her family from the Philippines; and many friends. She was preceded in death by her husband; her son Timothy Richardson; her brother Norlan Sorbo and wife Margie; her sister Maevis Adams and husband, James; her sister Orva Sorenson and husband, Phil; and her parents. Since Myra’s passing in February, her brother, Sidney Sorbo, and niece, LeAnn Sorbo, have also left us.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, July 13, at the St. John’s Lutheran Church in Woodstock, IL. Visitation will begin at 10:30 am, with a Sanctuary Memorial Service at 11:00 am, followed by a luncheon in the social hall.

Interment at Oakland Cemetery in Woodstock will be a private family gathering.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in Myra’s honor may be made to World Central Kitchen https://wck.org or to a school or charity of your choice.

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

“REAL” selves: Respectful, Engaging, Authentic, Leader. As Miss Woodstock, Perez was awarded a $2,500 scholarship from the scholarship award partner sponsors. First runnerup and talent award winner Marie Adkins received a $750 scholarship from the Woodstock

Professional & Business Women.

The 8th annual Little Miss Woodstock pageant awarded $250, provided by Prairie Community Bank, to Galli.

The evening’s award winners also included Miss Congeniality, awarded to Sophia Klein, Miss Photogenic and Little Miss Photogenic were awarded to Kaghan True and Myla McAdow, respectively, and the Little Miss Talent Award went to Evangeline Fisher.

2023 Miss Woodstock Maggie Adams and Little Miss Woodstock McKenna McAdow closed out their reign that night after a year

of representing Woodstock, showing support at numerous community events. McAdow had the opportunity to watch her sister compete in this year’s pageant, and Adams expressed how this experience has been an opportunity of a lifetime.

“This past year I have learned so much about myself and my community,” Adams said on her Facebook post. “I’ve been able to engage and meet new people I never would have in my past, and it’s been an absolute pleasure to represent our special town. So beyond grateful to have been Miss Woodstock 2023 and I’m so excited for our new queens. Be yourselves and you’ll shine.”

Patricia Pierce

Myra Richardson

Miss Woodstock pageant first runnerup, Marie Adkins

Woodstock, IL • 1987

Handling hate speech at a public meeting

Among the things that make Woodstock different – even special – is a willingness to be different and to do things differently.

That is on full display every year when Woodstock fully embraces the Pride movement. The City Council approves a declaration of June as Pride Month, and the city hosts a weekend Pride festival, complete with a parade and all the pageantry and colors of the Pride movement.

Pride Month celebrates the diversity and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community, according to the city’s declaration, “and recognizes all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. LGBTQ+ individuals have had an immeasurable impact on the cultural, civic and economic successes of our community, county and nation.”

As for leadership, the declaration says, “Woodstock strives to serve as a role model community in promoting diversity and inclusion for every human being, regardless of age, gender identity, race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, or physical challenges.

”It is especially imperative that all residents in the community, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, feel valued, safe, empowered,

» YOUR VIEW

Taxpayer loss higher for Public House settlement

I would like to comment on your editorial titled “An expensive lesson for Woodstock.” I agree with your point completely. The whole endeavor has proven that the City does not have the ability to pull off a restoration of that scale or to evaluate tenants or “deals” with tenants with any acumen.

I do take exception to your numbers on the Public House settlement, however. You present the taxpayer cost as a loan of $350,000 and shutdown money as $283,000 which is correct; however,

and supported by their peers, educators and community leaders.”

In accepting the proclamation on June 4 from Mayor Mike Turner, Melissa McMahon, who is president of Woodstock Pride and a member of the City Council, described Woodstock as a “safe haven” for the LGBTQ+ community. Not everybody in the audience agreed.

During public comments at the meeting, one citizen stood up to criticize the council and the Pride movement, saying it “exposed children to a deviant sexual ideology.”

Council members did not object to his comments or argue with his ideology during his allotted time. They did correct him about a factual error concerning a PrideFest weekend activity.

But otherwise, Mayor Mike Turner’s comments were to tell the speaker to stick to the time limit, address only the council members, and not engage with the audience members who were there to celebrate the Pride declaration.

After the speaker finished, he left council chambers.

On the one hand, the Illinois Open Meetings Act requires that people be heard at public meetings as long as they follow basic rules, mainly to stay within the time period of that body. In Woodstock, basically, it’s three minutes, state your case, and sit down.

On the other hand, Webster’s Dictonary defines hate speech as: “Speech that is intended to insult, offend, or intimidate a person because of some trait (such as race, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, or disability)”

There was no question that the speaker’s comments were full of homophobic hate speech, along with a thinly veiled threat about potentially disrupting the Pride Parade.

Listening to the speaker was not an easy or enjoyable task. But when it comes to public meetings, inclusion also means letting an alternate view be voiced, and the council did its job that night.

» OUR POLICY

you have ommitted the rent abatements granted. As reported, there was $39,500 forgiven just prior to the 2022 closing and another abatement starting in April 2020 for COVID which I am estimating at around $140,000. I don’t remember this ever being publicized.

In addition, the dollars recovered as claimed by the City and as reported by you aren’t really valid. There is a $75,000 loan hopefully to be recovered, plus $25,000 interest at 4 percent over the loan term. Since the City’s borrowing rate is at least 4 percent, that isn’t a recovery, just an offset to our cost. Also the reported $161,000 of tables, chairs,

plates, and silver, plus a cooler were valued by Mr. Loprina and it is inconceivable to any experienced lender that the taspayers will recover any more than a piece of $161,000.

To sum that all up, the City claims and you reported a net taxpayer loss of $372,000 when it appears to actually by $600-670,000. That is a REALLY expensive lesson.

Incidentally, the text of your editorial has a misprint saying the reported recovery was $216,000, not $261,000.

Kent Cooney Woodstock

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n Include a phone number for verification of authorship only.

n Please limit letters to 400 words.

n Email letters to pr@thewoodstock independent.com, or mail or drop them off at our office, 671 E. Calhoun St., Woodstock, IL 60098.

n For more information, call 815-338-8040.

Living my best life in the double lucky 7s

I celebrated a birthday a few days ago, and it felt like a major one. It wasn’t one of those ending in a 0 or a 5. It was worse. I’m now 77, the age at which my father died. I know, I know… I’m not my father. The thought lurks way in the back of my mind, though.

But there is also a bright side to my new age. I’m fortunate to be in touch on Facebook with high school friends who have been celebrating 77th birthdays for months. I smile whenever one of them refers to 77 as the “double lucky 7s.” Each time, I’m inspired to look at my new milestone in a happier light. It turns out that getting older does have its advantages.

In my 70s, when I meet someone new, I no longer get suspicious glances when I tell them I’m retired. That was not always the case when I retired at 55. If I uttered the R-word 20-plus years ago, faces looked at me with a combination of surprise, envy, and resentment. Or at least, I imagined they did. Then, if people found out that I was a retired teacher, their smiles disappeared completely as they realized that their taxes were helping support me while I enjoyed my leisurely lifestyle.

Woodstock

I NDEPENDENT

Caryl Dierksen Declarations

In my 70s, I no longer care as much what others think of me. I would like to say I don’t care at all, but that isn’t really true. It’s just that I waste less time agonizing over whether something I say or do will annoy people. I can’t spare that emotional energy anymore. In my 70s, my age is a built-in excuse for not doing things that I didn’t much want to do at any age. Maybe someone asks me to bring four dozen homemade, hand-decorated cookies for a holiday exchange. I can say, “Gosh, I’m sorry, but my (insert any real or imaginary condition here) won’t let me do things like that any more.”

Nor will I drive people to the airport during rush hour, clean their houses when they’re sick, go garage-saling all day long with them, walk their dogs in snowy/icy weather, or do anything else that doesn’t appeal to me. It’s not that I’m not willing to. Oh no, it’s certainly not that; it’s that I’m too old to. Therefore…

» LOCAL CONTACT INFO FOR PUBLIC OFFICIALS

U.S. Rep. Bill Foster 11th Disrict Office 2000 W. Galena Blvd., Suite 303 Aurora, IL 60506 630-585-7672

State Rep. Steve Reick District Office 1072 Lake Ave. Woodstock, IL 60098 815-880-5340

State Sen. Craig Wilcox District Office 209 N. Benton St. Woodstock, IL 600098

McHenry County Board Chairman Michael Buehler 1630 Quail Way Crystal Lake, IL 60014

815-334-4224 (work) mjbuehler@co.mchenry.il.us

» FIRST AMENDMENT

In my 70s, I now have more time for things I do enjoy. If I’ve started a page-turner of a book, I can read until I finish it, if I can stay awake long enough. If I want to schedule four social events for the same day, I can. But if I do that, being the introvert that I am, I’ll most likely want to stay home and do nothing at all the next day. And I can do that too.

In my 70s, I get to do things at my own pace. I’ll decide when I get the Christmas cards in the mail, if at all. I’ll drive more slowly if I need to to feel safe, though I promise to stay in the right-hand lane. I’ll sleep as late as I want, and then I might just waste the rest of the morning drinking coffee, checking social media and playing with my cats.

In my 70s, if someone calls me old, I will cheerfully agree that I am getting up there. But I’m not totally ancient yet, and that thought consoles me. So does this quote, which I have on the desktop of my computer:

“You are not too old, and it is not too late.”.

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

Woodstock Mayor Mike Turner

121 W. Calhoun St. Woodstock, IL 60098

815-338-4302 mturner@woodstockil.gov

Dorr Township Supervisor Susan Brokaw 1039 Lake Ave. Woodstock, IL 60098

815-338-0125 supervisor@dorrtownship.com

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

Corrections

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Staff

PUBLISHER EMERITA Cheryl Wormley c wormley@thewoodstockindependent com

PUBLISHER Rebecca McDaniel rebecca@thewoodstockindependent com

EDITOR Larry Lough larry@thewoodstockindependent com

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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, Amanda Burr, Lisa Kunzie

EDITORIAL CARTOONIST Jim Mansfield

PROOFREADER Don Humbertson

CIRCULATION

Beverly Meuch, Dennis Micheletti, Bill Schwerdtfeger, John Wickham

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“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof, or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”

Schools

COLLEGE CURRENTS

Local students named to NIU Spring 2024 dean’s list

Northern Illinois University in DeKalb announced its spring 2024 dean’s list students. To earn this distinction, students must meet a minimum semester GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale in the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology or a minimum of 3.75 on a 4.0 scale in the colleges of Business, Education, Health and Human Sciences, Liberal Arts and Sciences, and Visual and Performing Arts.

Students from Woodstock who achieved this honor include Brian Carlton, Justin Deleon, Jess Filler, Brianna Flores, James Gawronski, Kennedy Hawthorne, Paul Kaggwa, Jaedyn Kentgen, Sara Kranenburg, Makaia LaGris, James Marquardt, Juel Mecklenburg, Rian Mecklenburg, Kelly Miller Elliott, Alexis Rogganbuck, Lexi Sanchez, Abigail Shirley, Mayalin Snow, Hamzah Subhani, Reagan Ungaro, Karina Vargas, and Jonathan Woodcock.

Students from Wonder Lake who achieved this honor include Nathaniel Camorlinga, Edgar Carbajal, Tyler Salcedo, Kylie Schulze, Julia VanAcker, and Meaghan Walsh.

UW-Madison announces dean’s list

Maggie Thomas, of Bull Valley, was named to the dean’s list at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Students awarded this designation must meet the GPA requirements set by each university school or college.

Steven Sturm named to Bradley U. dean’s list

Steven Sturm, of Woodstock, and Gabrielle McMillan, of Wonder Lake, were named to the spring dean’s list at Bradley University in Peoria. Students must achieve a minimum 3.5 GPA for the semester to earn this recognition.

WHS

retiree Steve Thompson saves his best career for last

By Caryl Dierkson NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

When Steve Thompson graduated from Woodstock High School in 1980, he had no idea that his work life would go full circle, eventually bringing him back to WHS. By the time he returned to teach business at age 47, he had experienced two separate successful careers. Both made him a better teacher.

After high school, Thompson earned a degree in business and marketing, then went to work for S.E. Johnson. Over the next few years, he progressed from training sales interns to overseeing sales for the state of Oklahoma.

Then his father, Dick Thompson, announced plans to sell the family business, Thompson’s Appliance. Steve moved his family back to Woodstock so that he and his brother, Bob, could take over the business.

Steve enjoyed the work and getting to know his customers. He hired and trained many teenage workers, learning that he related

well to that age group.

But the job required unloading and installing heavy appliances. After 20 years the physical demands had taken a toll on his body. His doctor advised him to find a different line of work.

It was then that Thompson decided to become a teacher. Thirty-some years after graduating from college, he went back. For next two years, he took education classes, student taught, and earned a master’s degree, all while substitute teaching at WHS.

His teaching career

Thompson taught every class that his business department offered over his 15-year career. He also served as department chair and as coordinator of the work program, which places students in local jobs for part of the school day.

His favorite aspect of teaching was interacting with his students. “There are lots of ways to teach,” he said. “The more enjoyable you make it, the more they buy into it. You almost have to market yourself. I do goofy things, like every

morning putting on silly glasses and reading them an ag report.”

Thompson also liked interacting with students outside the classroom. “You get to see the kids in a different light,” he said. He advised the Future Business Leaders of America club and served as class sponsor for the classes of ’15, ’19, ’23, and, this year, for the class of ’27.

His favorite memories include the Great Pumpkin (homecoming) float debacle and another homecoming when his freshman girls flag football team defeated the senior girls.

Retirement plans

Thompson plans to relax a bit in retirement. He looks forward to spending more time with his wife, Susan, and their daughters. He wants to help his parents, both in their 90s, with tasks on their tree farm. And he plans to read, travel, fish, and putter around in his large yard.

“Mowing is very therapeutic,” he insisted, selling it like the businessman that he will always be.

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER

Woodstock High School business teacher and new retiree Steve Thompson is always up for a game.

St. Mary Catholic School announces third trimester

2023-24 honor roll

St. Mary School, Woodstock, announces its Honor Roll for the third trimester. Students in grades 6-8 are eligible for the Honor Roll. Students who earn 3.75 or above are placed on first honors. Students who earn 3.25 to 3.74 are placed on second honors.

SIXTH GRADE

FIRST HONORS:

Henry Blackney, Vincent Brendel, Constantino Cipolla, Kaitlyn Falbo, Kaitlyn Lange, Abigail Wilson

SECOND HONORS:

Olivia Ducey, Jacob Simob, Maya Uremovic

SEVENTH GRADE

FIRST HONORS:

Eva Jaimes, Sadie Strange

SECOND HONORS:

Evan Brubaker, Sofia Gatica, Mia Flores, Zachary Leitzen, Addie Schug, Celeste Raymond

EIGHTH GRADE

FIRST HONORS:

Gavin Barry, Sophia Bott, Vivianna Lara, Adelaide Leitzen

SECOND HONORS:

Case Conner, Ryan Falbo, Vivienne McConnell, Dianna Perez Gonzalez, Natalie Simon, Anna Wilson

Bette and David Chwalisz took The Woodstock Independent along in May when they visited a private nature preserve at Little St. Simons Island on the Georgia coast.

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

COURTESY PHOTO

A & E

The cast of Woodstock Children’s Summer Theatre production of “Shrek the Musical Jr.”rehearses with music director Alayna DeVar.

‘Everyone has a moment to shine’

Woodstock Children’s Summer Theatre brings

new take

on Shrek to Woodstock North High School

By Eileen Millard NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

This summer, 52 students from D-200 will have a chance to show off their talents in “Shrek the Musical Jr.” The performers include students who will be entering grades five through nine in the fall.

“Everyone has a moment to shine,” said co-director/choreographer Billy Seger. “There is a special ensemble for the younger kids, and for the more experienced kids, the more complicated choreography numbers.”

Seger added that one of the great things about Woodstock’s summer theater program is that past performers, now in high school, come back to volunteer. “The high school kids love this, it’s as exciting as being in the show. They are 100 percent role models … and mentor the younger kids.”

Performances at WNHS

The Woodstock Children’s

Summer Theatre production is usually held at the Woodstock Opera House, but because of renovations currently underway there, performances will be at Woodstock North High School this year. Performances will be:

• Friday, July 12, at 2 p.m. Library benefit performance. Summer Reading Vouchers can be redeemed at Woodstock Public Library starting June 24. Tickets for this performance will also go on sale online starting June 24.

• Friday, July 12, 7 p.m. General admission tickets are $12. Gala tickets are $30 and include designated seats in the middle sections, dinner at WNHS, and special raffles. Seating for dinner is at 5:30 p.m.

• Saturday, July 13, at 2 p.m.

• Saturday, July 13, at 7 p.m

• Sunday, July 14, at 2 p.m.

The value of summer theatre Seger believes in the importance of summer theater for young people. “It builds confidence, pride at being

The three Fionas, singing together, from left: Annie Gibbs (Young Fiona); Izzy Kerns (Fiona); and Charlotte Bonnett (Teen Fiona).

part of something that is bigger than yourself, especially doing shows like this, that have themes of being true to yourself … and standing up for the little guy. They are learning to understand human interaction, public speaking, and building relationships. The kids are not all from the same schools … (so) it’s cool to have crosstown schools to build community within a community.

“I think my favorite part of working with kids is seeing them kind of rise to the occasion, the challenge,” Seger added. “The growth as actors,

and as human beings, because these kids come in and see something they don’t see in themselves. They find the character, see something in a new light, walk out of the room with confidence.”

Community support

“Community support of this has always been so strong,” Seger said. “This year we had the change of venue and the community once again stepped up. Opera House folks helped with tech support, and the Woodstock North High School staff helped as well.

“This is an expensive production,” he added. “It is a popular show with intense costumes and props. The program is self-funded each summer, through events like the fundraising gala.”

Get tickets soon

Tickets can be purchased at whst. booktix.com.

“Ticket sales tend to be slow at first, but usually pick up, so buy tickets early,” Seger said.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Business

IN BRIEF

‘06 WHS grad Mark Piekos chosen as MCEDC director

The McHenry County Economic Development Corp. has chosen lifelong Woodstock resident Mark Piekos as its new executive director.

Piekos, 36, has served since 2021 as manager of the Illinois Small Business Development Center at McHenry County College, and for nine years before that was president of Cycle Craft Inc., in Woodstock.

As executive director, Piekos will lead the MCEDC’s mission to attract, retain and expand business and industry sectors key to McHenry County’s economy, and accelerate business development while advancing equitable and inclusive growth. He said his primary goals will be to discover new ways to provide value to McHenry County’s businesses, and to continue to develop the county’s economic base.

“I’m excited about future collaborations

and continued relationships to advance McHenry County’s economic development, and I’m delighted to continue making a positive impact in the community in

REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

Transactions filed in the McHenry County Recorder’s Office May 22 to June 4.

■ Residence at 12218 Cooney Drive, Woodstock, was sold by James J. Olson, Rockford, to Michael Brown, Woodstock, for $460,000.

■ Residence at 13710 Charles Road, Woodstock, was sold by The Joyce L. Maynard Trust, Woodstock, to Amanda L. Nicolai, Woodstock, for $250,000.

■ Residence at 828 Duvall Drive, Woodstock, was sold by The Steven and Kaye Hermie Joint Declaration of Revocable Trust, Mesquite, Nev., to Shannon Hermie, Woodstock, for $150,000.

■ Residence at 4017 W. Lake Shore Drive, Wonder Lake, was sold by Courtney M. Clark, Crystal Lake, to Danielle Nicole Carey, Wonder Lake, for $284,000.

■ Residence at 107 E. Kimball Ave., Woodstock, was sold by Diana A. Martinez Andrade, McHenry, to Irnad Durmic, Carol Stream, for $255,000.

■ Residence at 14110 Castlebar Trail, Woodstock, was sold by The Ricca Y. Zaino Declaration of Trust, Hilton Head Island, S.C., to Angel Manuel Figueroa, Woodstock, for $475,000.

■ Residence at 847-849 Rhodes St., Woodstock, was sold by Wayne and Terri Manke, Woodstock, to Bill Peroulas and Vasiliki Peroulas, Mount Prospect, for $370,000.

■ Land and residence at 611 Flagg Lane, Woodstock, was sold by KLM

which I was raised,” Piekos said.

Piekos’s experience as both a local business leader and the head of MCC’s Small Business Development Center makes him uniquely qualified to head the MCEDC, County Board Chairman Mike Buehler said. Illinois hosts such centers throughout the state to provide information, guidance, training, and other resources for start-ups and existing small businesses.

“Mark knows both sides of the coin –he knows what it’s like to run a successful business, and he knows how to get businesses and start-ups the tools they need for success. That, along with his lifetime familiarity with McHenry County, makes him the perfect person to move the MCEDC forward.”

Piekos is heavily involved in area business and civic groups. He serves on the boards of the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce and Consumer Credit Counseling Services, and is board president of Crime Stoppers for McHenry County. He

is a 2012 graduate of Leadership Greater McHenry County, a program that identifies and helps train McHenry County’s next generation of leaders.

Mike Skala, who holds the County Board’s seat on the MCEDC Board of Directors and serves as its vice-chairman, said Piekos came to his job interview with deep knowledge of the MCEDC and its mission, as well as ideas regarding how to improve.

“He brings youthful enthusiasm, he brings trustworthiness, he brings listening skills and understanding, and he brings financial stewardship,” Skala, R-Huntley, said. “He definitely has a passion for McHenry County, the success of businesses, and of the MCEDC as an entity.”

Piekos holds a bachelor of arts degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a small business focus from Western Illinois University. He lives in Woodstock with his wife and two young children, and is a 2006 graduate of Woodstock High School.

Builders Inc., Richmond, to Pablo Castaneda, Woodstock, for $500,835.

■ Residence at 3143 Shenandoah Lane, Woodstock, was sold by Lechner Bros. Inc., Woodstock, to Lawrence Abwooli Asaba, Woodstock, for $222,000.

■ Residence at 144 Ridgewood Drive, Woodstock, was sold by Seth Booker, Winnebago, to Susan Hawkins, Woodstock, for $350,000.

■ Vacant land, approximately 2 acres, at 2209 Ann Lane, Lot 9, Woodstock, was sold by Adam Hajnos, Chicago, to John Lipstreuer, Genoa City, Wis., for $50,000.

■ Residence at 8327 Mason Hill Road, Woodstock, was sold by Victor Rice, Stillwater, Okla., to Robert Sean Wilson, Woodstock, for $612,500.

■ Residence at 3207 Pleasure Ave., Wonder Lake, was sold by Alexandra A. Knoll, McHenry, to John R. Cecchini, Wonder Lake, for $300,000.

■ Residence at 1616 Moraine Drive, Woodstock, was sold by The Declaration of Living Trust of Martin J. Biermeier

and Maureen J. Biermeier, The Villages, Fla., to James Coleman, Woodstock, for $395,000.

■ Residence a 315 E. Jackson St., Woodstock, was sold by James McGrath, Capron, to Carlos Tapia, Woodstock, for $140,000.

■ Commercial building at 350 E. Church St., Woodstock, was sold by Rodifer Enterprises Inc., Woodstock, to VG Pallets Inc., Woodstock, for $50,000.

■ Residence at 1138 Tara Drive, Woodstock, was sold by The Edward J. Godlewski and Jolen M. Godlewski Revocable Declaration of Trust, Wisconsin Dells, Wis., to George Lara, Woodstock, for $350,000.

■ Residence at 5612 Greenwood Road, Wonder Lake, was sold by The Leszek W. and Maria Czyz Trust, Wonder Lake, to Stacy Wissman, Wonder Lake, for $650,000.

■ Residence at 261 Springwood Drive, Woodstock, was sold by Michael B. Goldberg, Crystal Lake, to Cory Butler, Woodstock, for $410,000.

COURTESY PHOTO

Lifelong Woodstock resident Mark Piekos takes over as the executive directory of the McHenry County Economic Development Corp.

Community

Where’s Waldo

Read Between the Lynes hosts popular summertime game on the Square

By Tricia Carzoli NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

“The best part is watching the joy this brings to other people,” Read Between the Lynes assistant manager Kaitlyn Reed said about the launch of this year’s “Find Waldo Local in Woodstock” event.

This is the twelfth time Read Between the Lynes has hosted the summertime event – and the third time post COVID. Candlewick Press and the American Booksellers Association have collaborated with 310 independent bookstores across the nation – including Read Between the Lynes – to bring Waldo to communities throughout the country.

Beginning July 1, residents can visit 26 local merchants to find the beloved Waldo in his red-andwhite striped shirt and black glasses around town.

“Both local business owners and Find Waldo Local participants have shared with us just how much they enjoy taking part in the search,” Read Between the Lynes store owner Arlene Lynes said. “We are so excited to bring this program to Woodstock once again.”

Since the 1980s, Martin Handford’s “Where’s Waldo” books have captivated book-lovers young and old. The recent release “Where’s Waldo?: The Great Games Speed Search” will be featured at the finale party on July 31 where participants will be able to test their Waldo-finding speed against Waldo.

“We love watching our community have so much joy while they participate,” Reed explained. “And we are so excited to have Waldo here to race against the participants.”

Lynes is known for her desire to foster community collaboration,

and this event is geared toward building a relationship between the community and local independent businesses.

“This is such a great opportunity to show off the best parts of our local independent stores,” Reed said. “And this year, we had so many businesses wanting to participate, we filled our stamp cards – we even had to squeeze in the 26th store.”

Participants are encouraged to pick up a stamp card at any participating business, look for Waldo in each store, and get their card stamped or signed by the participating shop. At Read Between the Lynes, there is also a 2024 gold medal hidden somewhere in the store.

Participants who receive 20 stamps or signatures are eligible to be entered into a grand-prize drawing for Waldo books and other prizes. All participants are welcome to attend the celebration on July 31 at Read Between the Lynes at 3 p.m.

Find Waldo Local – the Woodstock edition – runs from July 1 through July 31.

For more information, visit readbetweenthelynes.com

Participating businesses include: Read Between the Lynes, Anime & Things, Apple Creek Flowers, Artisans on Main/Clayworkers’ Guild, The Backdrop, Black Oak Home & Haven Co., Blue Thistle, Casting Whimsy, Down 2 Earth, The Green Spot, GriffoNest Games, Grove House Market, Hattie & Myrt, The Market by D&A, Material Things Artisan Market, MD Trains, Millie’s Michoacana, Needful Things, The Peacock Shoppe, The Records Department, Rocket Fizz, Sewing Concepts, Studio D Jewelers, The Thoughtfulness Shop, Warp Corps, and Woodstock Visitor Center.

has been spotted walking around in the Square, and other times he takes a more human form (below).

An “I found Waldo” medallion might also be hiding in Read Between The Lynes.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Waldo

McHenry County Antique Farm Equipment Association of Illinois held its annual picnic recently in Union. Matt Claussen, Woodstock, attempts to get his tractor as close to the egg on a stick as possible. Daughter Lola, red shirt, looks on with eager anticipation.

INDEPENDENT

PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI

Summer fun at Kids Club day camp

By Janet Dovidio NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Many local elementary school students are currently enjoying a summer camp program operated by District 200. Kids Club is an afterschool program at all six elementary schools and Vierda Dierzen Early Learning Center during the regular school year. Kids Club for the summer months takes place only at Westwood Elementary School. The camp includes students who just finished kindergarten through fifth grade.

“Summers are terrific because we have campers all day and are then able to have more planned activities, special events, and even field trips,” Kids Club Director Amy Kroyer said. “Campers get to enjoy a mixture of inside and outside activities.”

Kids Club Summer Day Camp takes place from 6:45 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday from

Kids Club participants Kacper and Nicholas

berry picking at Stades Farm and Market.

Max Chrystal makes friends

to concentrate on the program.

enjoy

June 3 until August 9. Every Friday includes swimming at Woodstock Water Works.

Weather is not a factor as Westwood recently installed an AC unit in their cafeteria, which is where most indoor activities take place. Kroyer commends the custodial staff for their flexibility with the camp while they clean the building for the upcoming school year.

Assistant Director Rachel Emricson works all winter and spring to find activities and projects for each day. Kids Club Secretary Robin Devries oversees all billing and enrollment lists, which allows Kroyer

IN BRIEF

County Jury Commission warns of jury scam

Recently a number of McHenry County residents have called the McHenry County Jury Commission, advising they had received a call from an unknown person, indicating that the person receiving the call had missed jury service. The caller ID displays that the call originates from the Jury Commission. This tactic, known as “spoofing,” exploits a known

“Our group of 12 month employees really makes our summer camp the amazing program it is,” Kroyer added.

This year’s camp’s 2024 summer calendar includes field trips to Hephzibah Farms, Stades Farm and Market, and Lippold Mini Golf. Programs for onsite are presentations by Animal Quest, McHenry County Conservation District, McHenry County Health Department, Discovery Museum, and a youth fitness program from Grow of McHenry County. Hephzibah and Stades are repeat trips due to the kids’ overwhelming feedback last year.

Kroyer concluded, “I love that Kids Club is a 12 month program. Families then don’t have to worry about finding care for 10-11 weeks someplace else, and the kids are already acquainted with staff so it makes the transition easier.”

vulnerability in the telephone network to apply a false outgoing telephone number to the caller ID.

The Jury Commission does not contact individuals who miss jury service by telephone. If you receive a telephone call from anyone identifying themselves as a representative of the McHenry County Jury Commission suggesting you have missed jury service, you should disconnect the phone call immediately and contact the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Ziewjewski (left)

straw-

with a goat at Hephzibah Farm in Hebron.

‘My students are very talented’

Marian teacher puts faith in students on wedding day

By Amanda Burr NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Here comes the bride!

Marian Central’s theology teacher, Kristina Riedelsperger-Nelson, invited Marian students, graduates, and faculty to her wedding ceremony May 31, 2024 at Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Cary. The officiant was Marian’s spiritual director, the Rev. Charles Warren, who has guided RiedelspergerNelson in her teaching at Marian. The pews were filled with her own friends and family along with Marian students, for she truly cares for her students enough to include them on her big day. As the congregation prayed for the happy couple, the Marian community wished the new Mr. and Mrs. Nelson the happiest of wishes in their future

endeavors.

Marian graduate Delaney Rogge, who had a lasting impression of her former theology teacher, attended with her sister. “I love Miss Riedelsperger. I’m so excited for her!” Rogge said.

Riedelsperger-Nelson incorporated her students’ talents into her wedding ceremony. Madeleine Noon, a Marian graduate, cantored for the Mass along with three Marian choir students, Collin Zecchin, Connor Truckenbrod, and Grace Dennison. Their conductor was Marian’s music director, Andrew Ossler. In addition to Noon’s vocal talent, Riedelsperger-Nelson also entrusted her wedding makeup to Marian graduate Amanda Burr. Both of the graduates expressed, “We were honored and thrilled to be a part of Miss R’s new chapter.”

After the ceremony, the newlyweds’ close friends and family gathered for the reception, in which another student’s skill was utilized. Marian student Eddie Gessert had been working behind the scenes of this important day by giving the couple lessons in fencing. Gessert’s work debuted during their first dance as they broke out in combat to surprise their guests before they danced. Given the theme was Medieval – in honor of how they met – the slight ploy was very fitting and romantic. Her incorporation of former and current students’ skills into her big day demonstrated her faith in her students.

“My students are very talented and I encourage them to use their talents to help others,” Riedelsperger-Nelson said.,,

Hera was born at Helping Paws and raised by the the staff and volunteers. All her siblings and mother have been adopted and sweet Hera is the last one left. The smallest of her siblings, she makes up for it in spunk. She loves playing in water, and loves everyone she meets. Running in the yard and going for walks are some of her favorite activities. While still working on her potty training, she’s a smart girl and learns very quickly. If you think Hera sounds like the perfect fit for your family, call Helping Paws to make an appointment to see her!

2500 Harding Lane, Woodstock

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY AMANDA BURR Marian teacher Kristina Riedelsperger-Nelson and her husband Robert incorporated students’ talents on their wedding day.

(Off Rt. 14 at the Lake Shore Dr. traffic light)

Happenings

8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

3

WEDNESDAY

WOODSTOCK CITY BAND

Park in the Square

“From Coast to Coast” Ice cream social

7 p.m.

KARAOKE NIGHT

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St. 7 to 9 p.m. woodstockoperahouse.com

4

THURSDAY

Emricson Park 1313 Kishwaukee Valley Road Gates open at 5 p.m.

6

SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

woodstockfarmersmarket.org Music: TBA

SHAKESPEARE IN THE SQUARE

“A Bit O’ The Bard’ Woodstock Square 2 p.m.

OSCAR MIKE FOURTH ANNUAL INDEPENDENCE RIDE

Woodstock Harley-Davidson 2235 S. Eastwood Dr.

CHILL MURRAY COMEDY SHOW

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

8 to 10 p.m. $15 online, $20 at the door

7 SUNDAY

OFF SQUARE MUSIC PRESENTS SUNDAYS ON THE SQUARE

Featuring South for Winter Woodstock Square 5 to 7 p.m.

8 MONDAY

COFFEE WITH THE CHIEF

Woodstock Police Department 656 Lake Ave. 7 p.m. 815-338-6787

9 TUESDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

woodstockfarmersmarket.org Music: TBA

10 WEDNESDAY

WOODSTOCK CITY BAND Park in the Square “Passport, Please!” Ice cream social 7 p.m.

KARAOKE NIGHT

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St. 7 to 9 p.m.

woodstockoperahouse.com

11 THURSDAY

SLC TRIVIA NIGHT - PUB

TRIVIA USA

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m.

woodstockoperahouse.com

MOVIES IN THE PARK ‘HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON’

Woodstock Square

7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

12 FRIDAY

OPEN MIC NIGHT

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m.

To sign up, email Keith@offsquare music.com

‘SHREK THE MUSICAL JR.’

Woodstock North High School

3000 Raffel Road

7 p.m.

$12

Gala tickets are $30 and include designated seats in the middle sections, dinner at WNHS, and special raffles. Seating for dinner is at 5:30 p.m. whst.booktix.com

13 SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

woodstockfarmersmarket.org Music: TBA

‘SHREK THE MUSICAL JR.’

Woodstock North High School

3000 Raffel Road

2 and 7 p.m.

$12

whst.booktix.com

OPEN MIC SHOWCASE

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m.

14 SUNDAY

OPEN MIC STORYTELLING

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

2 to 4 p.m.

Hosted by Jim May

‘SHREK THE MUSICAL JR.’

Woodstock North High School

3000 Raffel Road

2 p.m.

$12

whst.booktix.com

16 TUESDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

woodstockfarmersmarket.org

Music: TBA

WOODSTOCK CITY COUNCIL

Council Chambers, City Hall

121 W. Calhoun St. 7 p.m. woodstockil.gov

17 WEDNESDAY

MEMORY MAKERS STORYTELLING GROUP

Resurrection Catholic Church

Woodstock Public Library

414 W. Judd St. (in person)

9:30 a.m. to noon 815-338-0542, ext. 14125

WOODSTOCK CITY BAND

Park in the Square “My Kind of Town” Ice cream social 7 p.m.

KARAOKE NIGHT

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St. 7 to 9 p.m.

woodstockoperahouse.com

18 THURSDAY

SLC TRIVIA NIGHT - PUB TRIVIA USA

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m.

woodstockoperahouse.com

MOVIES IN THE PARK ‘GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY’

Woodstock Square

7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

19 FRIDAY

JAZZ NIGHT

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

8 p.m.

woodstockoperahouse.com

20 SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

woodstockfarmersmarket.org

Music: TBA

FLASHBACKS

35 years ago – 1989

■ Leon Bohn, Phil Frederick, and Chris Parrish had starring roles in the Woodstock Children’s Summer Theatre production of “Pirates of Penzance.” Their roles were Pirate King, Lieutenant, and Major General, respectively.

30 years ago –1994

■ Greg McCoy, who had earned his living for 18 years designing and producing stained, leaded, and beveled glass in his basement studio, was featured in The Independent. His work included windows for the Woodstock Opera House, Tapestry restaurant, Oakland Cemetery mausoleum, and several local churches.

■ Denise Graff Ponstein was installed as the first woman president of the Rotary Club of Woodstock. She had joined the club in 1988.

■ Clay Elementary School Principal Bob Bosman and 17 Woodstock School District 200 teachers retired at the end of the 1993-94 school year. Among teacher retirees were Carl Kaufmann and Brian Knight from Northwood Middle School; Dorothy Kleckner from Dean Street Elementary School; Darlene LeCrone from Clay, Patricia Schermerhorn and Richard Peters from Northwood Elementary; Judy Schmidt and Stephen Spear from Olson Middle School; Ria Reckamp, Chapter 1 reading; and Jim Pearson from Woodstock High School.

25 years ago – 1999

■ Construction had begun in the 1300 block of Dean Street for the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District’s new 9,900-square-foot fire station. The final price tag for the station was expected to be between $1.35 and $1.4 million. It would replace the South Street station being leased from the city of Woodstock.

■ Woodstock celebrated another successful Dick Tracy Days. Among the honored guests were Captain Dick Tracy, a retired Chicago police officer, and Chester Gould’s daughter, Jean O’Connell.

20 years ago – 2004

■ The McHenry County Jewish Congregation welcomed Rabbi Maralee Gordon as its new spiritual leader. Walmart officially expressed interest in the planned shopping development on Lake Avenue near Highway 14. The chain also had filed paperwork for a special use permit to sell gas as part of the Walmart complex.

15 years ago – 2009

■ The Independent featured retiring teachers and staff of Woodstock School District 200. Among the retirees were Susan Olsen, who taught Woodstock children for 42 ½ years; Louanna Paradowski, food service at Greenwood Elementary School for 28 years; Cheryl Trapp, who taught four grade levels at three D-200 elementary schools over 23 years; Kathleen Winkelhake, who taught 20 years at Greenwood; and Dick Brouillete, “Mr. B,” head custodian at Westwood Elementary School for 16 years.

■ Woodstock was featured on ABC’s “I-90 North” – a 30-minute program highlighting travel destinations in the Chicago area. The producers chose to focus on the Opera House, Woodstock Public House, Cobblestones on the Square, and the Alexandria House Bed & Breakfast.

■ The Wonder Lake Water Ski Show team was practicing for its annual Fourth of July show on Wonder Lake’s Center Beach.

10 years ago – 2014

■ At its Independence Day concert, the Woodstock City Band played a marchlike overture written to commemorate its longstanding history. Michael Sweeney was commissioned by the city to compose “Spring City Overture.”

■ Woodstock Independent Editor Katelyn Stanek was one of 12 editorial writers honored by the International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors for exceptional editorial writing at its conference in Durango, Colo.

5 years ago – 2019

■ The Woodstock Little League AAA Metro team defeated South Elgin 10-1

July 3, 2002 – Woodstock celebrates its sesquicentennial.

to take the Illinois District 13 championship. Woodstock had 12 hits, with Frank Cohen leading the team with three hits in three at bats. Ben Hendershot, Sam Ulanowski, and Rian Hahn-Clifton all had multiple hits. Though corn in fields in northern Illinois is usually knee-high by the Fourth of July, the wet spring had hindered planting and plant growth, and much of the corn in the area was nowhere near knee-high.

■ Dorr Township residents voted 67-24 in favor of giving the Board of Directors the authority to enter a contract to buy 10 acres next to the highway garage for materials storage and a possible recycling center.

1 year ago – 2023

■ Woodstock residents were among more than 80 million people from the Midwest to the East Coast who were affected by air quality alerts as smoke from Canadian wildfires invaded parts of the U.S.

■ When the National Weather Service issued a warning about dangerous air quality, city staff decided the City Band concert scheduled for the Park in the Square, June 28, 2023, would instead be in the Opera House. “I think this is a historic City Band concert,” Woodstock Opera House manager Daniel Campbell said. “To my knowledge the City Band has never played inside the Opera House before.”

EDITORIAL CARTOON BY JIM PEARSON

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT

MCHENRY COUNTY

PUBLICATION NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE (ADULT)

Request of JASMINE PERIGRINA BALDRIDGE

Case No. 2024MR000091

There will be a court hearing on my Request to change my name from: JASMINE PERIGRINA BALDRIDGE

To the new name of: JASMINE PEREGRINE MARTIN

The court date will be held on August 6, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. at 2200 N. Seminary Ave. Woodstock, McHenry County in Courtroom TBD.

Dated at Woodstock, IL June 7, 2024 /s/ Jasmine Perigrina Baldridge (Published in The Woodstock Independent June 19, 2024, June 26, 2024, July 3, 2024)L11807

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

Case No. 2024PR000192

In the Matter of the Estate of SARA M. POTTHAST

Deceased CLAIM NOTICE

Notice is given of the death of SARA M. POTTHAST

Of: WOODSTOCK, IL

Letters of office were issued on: 6/13/2024

To Representative: JAMES W. POTTHAST 10606 DEERPATH ROAD WOODSTOCK, IL 60098

whose attorney is: KNAPP, PETER G. 244 N. THROOP ST. STE 110 WOODSTOCK, IL 60098

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

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

(Published in The Woodstock Independent June 26, 2024, July 3, 2024) L11808

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

Case No. 2024PR000140

In the Matter of the Estate of RONALD L. MODRICH

Deceased

CLAIM NOTICE

Notice is given of the death of RONALD L. MODRICH

Of: HUNTLEY, IL

Letters of office were issued on: 5/3/2024

To Representative: RICHARD A. MODRICH 10811 ELIZABETH AVE. HUNTLEY, IL 60142 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 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 June 26, 2024, July 3, 2024) L11809

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on JUNE 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 PALLET 4 YOU located at 480 SCOTLAND RD. LAKEMOOR IL 60051. Owner Name & Address: ARTURO VARELA-RIVERA 219 S. GREEN ST. MCHENRY, IL 60050.

Dated: JUNE 11, 2024

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

(Published in The Woodstock Independent June 26, 2024, July 3, 2024) L11810

PUBLIC NOTICE

TO: Viking Dog, LLC Woodstock Square; Jane Howie, as Clerk for the City of Woodstock; Occupant at 136 Cass Street, Woodstock, IL 60098; Michael D. Poulos, as Registered Agent for Viking Dog, LLC Woodstock Square; Viking Dog, LLC Woodstock Square; The Prairie State Trust Dated August 14, 2014, as Manager for Viking Dog, LLC Woodstock Square; Joseph J. Tirio, County Clerk of McHenry County; their spouses, heirs, devisees, successors or assigns, if any; persons in occupancy or actual

PUBLIC NOTICES

possession and unknown owners or parties interested in the above described real estate.

TAX DEED NO. 2024TX000062

FILED: June 10, 2024

TAKE NOTICE

County of McHenry

Date Premises Sold: November 1, 2021

Certificate No.: 2020-00578

Sold for General Taxes of (year): 2020 Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and special assessment number: N/A

Warrant No.: N/A Inst. No.: N/A

THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES

Property located at: 136 Cass Street, Woodstock, IL 60098

Legal Description or Property Index No.: 13-05-355-022

This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on October 30, 2024.

The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his or her assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the county clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming.

This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before October 30, 2024.

This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of this county in Woodstock, Illinois (2200 N. Seminary Avenue) on November 18, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. in Room 202. You may be present at this hearing but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time.

YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY

Redemption can be made at any time on or before October 30, 2024 by applying to the County Clerk of McHenry County,

Illinois at the Office of the County Clerk in McHenry County, Illinois (667 Ware Road, Woodstock, Illinois).

For further information contact the County Clerk

ADDRESS: 667 Ware Road, Woodstock, Illinois 60098

TELEPHONE: (815) 334-4242

Hobo Investments, LLC Purchaser or Assignee

Dated: June 21, 2024

Zoom Information: caseinfo.mchenrycountyil.gov/ PublicCaseAccess Court Room 202

(Published in The Woodstock Independent July 3, 2024)L11811

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on JUNE 12, 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 BRITTANY KELLEHER CLEANING located at 16503 IL ROUTE 173 HARVARD, IL 60033. Owner Name & Address: BRITTANY KELLEHER 16503 IL ROUTE 173 HARVARD, IL 60033.

Dated: JUNE 12, 2024 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk)

(Published in The Woodstock Independent June 26, 2024, July 3, 2024) L11812

PUBLIC NOTICE

Change to DBA

Change of Business/Owner(s) Address

Public Notice is hereby given that on June 24, A.D. 2024, a Certificate was filed in the Office of the County Clerk of McHenry County IL concerning the business known as Elias Services located at 1045 Village Road Crystal Lake IL 60014 which certificate sets forth the following BUSINESS/OWNER ADDRESS change in the DBA thereof: ELIAS SERVICES BUSINESS ADDRESS

CHANGE FROM 1045 VILLAGE RD CRYSTAL LAKE IL 60014 TO 9310 IL-176 CRYSTAL LAKE IL 60014. ELIAS RENDON OWNER ADDRESS CHANGE FROM 1045 VILLAGE RD CRYSTAL LAKE IL 60014 TO 205 COLUMBINE ST. CRYSTAL LAKE IL 60014.

Dated this 24 day of June, A.D., 2024 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk)

(Published in The Woodstock Independent July 3, 2024)L11813

PUBLIC NOTICE

City of Woodstock Plan Commission Notice is hereby given in compliance with the City of Woodstock Unified Development Ordinance that the City of Woodstock Plan Commission will conduct a public hearing on Thursday, July 18, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 2nd Floor at 121 West Calhoun Street, Woodstock, Illinois. The hearing will be in regard to a petition submitted by Olympik Signs Co., on behalf of JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, owner, for approval of variations to allow a secondary wall sign to be larger than the primary wall sign and for it to be placed on a wall that neither contains an architecturally emphasized public entrance nor abuts a public street for the commercial building at 320 S. Eastwood Drive. The Permanent Index Number (based on the most recent available records) is 13-08-228-024. A copy of the petition which is the subject of this public hearing is on file and available for public viewing at Woodstock City Hall. Anyone wishing to comment may attend the meeting and be heard. Written comments may be submitted to the Department of Building & Zoning Department at City Hall on or before 5:00 p.m. on the day of the hearing.

/s/ Cody Sheriff, Plan Commission Chairman

(Published in The Woodstock Independent July 3, 2024)L11814

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

WORD SCRAMBLE GUESS

Sports

District 200 ladies take a swing at team golf

‘The girls deserved something they could call their own’

By Kevin Lyons DISTRICT 200

Coach Casey Rhode has put the ball on the tee for the first ever Woodstock/Woodstock North co-op girls golf team that will hit the links this fall.

While girls have been allowed to play on the boys team, there hasn’t been a stand-alone girls team, although some other schools in the Kishwaukee River Conference have had them.

The new team will make a big difference for WHS senior Hailey Peterson, who’s played in Junior PGA events and with her dad, a local golf pro, since she was very young.

“I was really excited because I like playing golf, and I was just kind of hesitant about doing a coed team especially since not many girls played on it,” Peterson said.

Passion pays off

Rhode, a special education teacher at Woodstock High School, said starting a girls team has been a passion for her for the last few years.

“I went to the camp for the boys golf team last summer and saw that three girls planned on playing, but on such a big team they wouldn’t get the amount of attention they

“I love this game and everything it has taught me on and off the course.”

- Casey Rhode, head coach for the new Woodstock co-op golf team

needed to hone in on the raw talent that I was seeing. Throughout the entire year, I started asking what it would take for a girls team to begin. The girls deserved something they could call their own.”

Rhode said WHS Athletic Director

Al Baker has been very supportive helping her navigate through the hurdles of starting a team. “We have a good model for this change with the addition of girls wrestling last year. In both cases, the credit goes to great coaches who advocated for positive change. Casey’s enthusiasm for this was just impossible to say no to,” Baker said.

Kickstart camp

One big step forward is the summer girls golf camp Rhode and her father, Jim, are hosting at Woodstock Country Club.

Girls have been allowed to play on the boys teams, but they were required to hit from the men’s tees. Some girls who enjoy golf haven’t felt comfortable joining mostly male teams for a variety of reasons, which Rhode, who played on a coed team in high school, understands.

“A girls team provides not only

a level of comfort, but specifically at the high school age, it allows the girls to try out a new sport and make mistakes and not be judged by anyone but themselves,” Rhode said.

Hannah Tran, an incoming Woodstock North freshman, said she’s enjoyed golfing with her father at local clubs and Top Golf. She plans to also play tennis but is looking forward to the opportunity to golf competitively.

“I thought it was really exciting. I wanted to join so I could learn new things,” Tran said.

Rhode had seven girls in camp this summer and hopes to add a few more for the fall season.

“I love this game and everything it has taught me on and off the course. It truly is a sport that I’ve been able to and will continue to do for the rest of my life, and a sport I hope these girls continue with through their lives as well,” Rhode said.

Potential girls golf team players participate in a girls sum mer golf camp hosted by coach Casey Rhode and her father Jim, at Woodstock Country Club.

COLLEGE REPORT:

Sophia Raymond helps Hope College win sixth consecutive MIAA outdoor title

Woodstock graduate Sophia Raymond is not part of a tradition yet, but the Hope College sophomore thrower is working her way there.

Dan Chamness

The College Report

At the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association Outdoor Finals, held at the Gainey Athletic Complex in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the Hope women won their sixth consecutive outdoor track and field title, scoring 240 points. They won by 58 points, as Trine University took second with 182 points. For her part, Raymond scored six of those points, placing third in the hammer throw with a toss of 40.93 meters, which translates to 134 feet, 3 inches.

Raymond’s throw in the hammer throw was the best of any Hope thrower all year.

Reagan Kelly (Marian Central Catholic) helped Butler University score points in two different relays at the Big East Outdoor Track and Field Championships. Villanova University served as the host and held the event at Jumbo Elliott Track in Villanova, Pennsylvania. Butler was fifth in the 400-meter relay, crossing the finish line in 46.99 seconds. In the 1,600-meter relay, Butler took sixth with a time of 3:50.44. Individually, she was 16th in the 400-meter dash. She ran :58.93.

Butler took eighth with 33 points. The University of Connecticut won the 10-team meet with 210.33 points.

Tim Maidment (Woodstock) finished eighth in the long jump at the Horizon League Outdoor Championships, which was held at the Elaine Leigh Track and Field Complex in Rochester, Michigan. The

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee jumper recorded a leap of 6.76 meters. The Wisconsin-Milwaukee Panthers finished second with 192 points. Youngstown State University won the team title with 294 points.

SOFTBALL

Ellie Thurow (Woodstock North) was Coe College’s pitcher of record in all three of their wins in the NCAA Division III Regional Championships held in Greencastle, Indiana. They would top Baldwin-Wallace University (4-2), Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota (6-3) and the host school DePauw University (12-9). In the win over BaldwinWallace, she worked the complete game seven innings, allowing two earned runs on five hits. She fanned four and walked one.

She worked nine innings against Saint Mary’s. Thurow allowed three earned runs on 12 hits. She walked a pair and fanned one. In the win over DePauw, she allowed seven earned runs on eight hits in 4 1/3 innings of work. She walked three batters in the Coe slugfest win. Thurow enters the NCAA Division III Super Regional in Cleveland, Ohio, with an 18-4 mark. Coe is 34-9 overall. They finished the American Rivers Conference schedule with a 12-4 mark.

BASEBALL

Mason Schwalbach (Marian Central Catholic) had three hits for Kansas State University this year.

The Woodstock resident, who homered once, played in eight games and made two starts. He drove home three runs and scored twice. Kansas State finished 35-26 overall and 15-15 in the Big 12 Conference. They advanced to the NCAA Division I Charlottesville (Virginia) Super Regional before being ousted from the national playoffs.

Dan Chamness writes The College Report for The Independent.

Noah Thornburg scored a big catch June 24, landing a 30 pound, 44-inch Northern Pike at Halley’s Camp on Lake Umfreville on the English River, Ontario, Canada. The fish was caught on a jig and a minnow. The 16-year-old fisherman is a Woodstock High School student.

IN BRIEF

Little League Int. team plays for District Champs

The Woodstock Little League Intermediate (13u) Allstars has enjoyed an outstanding season this summer.

Approaching their post-season, they scored a big win (17-1) June 26. Bouncing back from a loss of 1-4 June 27, the Allstars took a commanding lead on June 28, winning 21-6.

They had a record of 19-14-1 going into the Crystal Lake/Woodstock Intermediate End of Season tournament District Championship game, slated for June 30 at Wing Park, Elgin.

Despite an early lead, the Allstars lost in a bit of a heartbreaker. They had the lead through 5-1/2, but ended up on the wrong end when it was over.

Coaches expressed their pride in the way the team played this year, noting immense growth over the last two years. The 13U Allstars went 0-4 with major losses in 2022 to playing in the championship game this year.

They’ll wrap up their season in the Brian Krueger Memorial tournament in Lake in the Hills July 12-14.