Woodstock Independent 8/14/24 by thewoodstockindependent.com

The Woodstock

Gordon Stade is honored at fairgrounds

Council approves downtown hotel agreement

By Eileen Millard NEWS@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

The Woodstock City Council unanimously approved a redevelopment agreement at the August 6 meeting for Kebb CS-WK, LLC to build a high-end hotel in the downtown area. It will be located on the current city parking lot

TIF incentives sealed the deal

at Jefferson and Calhoun streets, just off the Square. The hotel is estimated to cost $12.6 million.

The Eau Claire, Wis.-based developer will use their Cobblestone design brand for the 60-room hotel, which will include a guest laundry, indoor pool, fitness center and conference room. The hotel will also have a

BLOOZE ON THE SQUARE

Wissota Chophouse restaurant on the ground floor (for more details on the hotel, see the story on page 12).

The hotel is the culmination of a longtime push for a high-end downtown hotel to stimulate economic growth by drawing in tourist and business use, as well as adding a new

See HOTEL, Page 4

The Blooze Brothers, featuring Kimberly “Hot Sauce” Johnson, entertained a lively crowd on the Square Aug. 9 for the second annual Rhythm & Blues fest.

INDEPENDENT

Outdoor pickleball ready this fall

Progress report on Emricson pickleball and intergenerational park

By Eileen Millard NEWS@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

According to Woodstock Parks and Recreation Director Park Pentecost, the eight new outdoor pickleball courts at Emricson Park will soon be open. Work is weather-dependent, but

the goal is to be open sometime during the week ending August 16.

“We are putting in the final touches,” Pentecost said. “All the heavy lifting is done.” Interest is high, Pentecost added, and people have been calling the Recreation Department on a regular basis to ask about opening day.

Woodstock now has a total of 14 outdoor courts. In addition to the eight new pickleball courts at Emricson Park, there are now two new pickleball courts at Olson Park.

The three existing tennis courts at

Emricson Park and the one existing tennis court at Olson Park were also totally rebuilt this summer.

The new Emricson Park pickleball courts are configured in two rows, with four courts in each row. Tennis and pickleball will not be sharing court space; tennis courts are just for tennis, and pickleball courts are just for pickleball. Outdoor pickleball and tennis courts are free, and available on a first-come, first-served basis, with no

See PICKLEBALL, Page 5

PHOTO BY ANDREW ROUSEY

OBITUARIES

Alice Marilyn Buchholz, 96

Alice Marilyn Buchholz (nee Heinrich), 96, died peacefully on August 2, 2024, in Long Grove, Illinois. She was born in Chicago on August 24, 1927, to the late William and Frances (nee Sauer) Heinrich, and was preceded in death by her husband, John Buchholz and brothers John (Alice), Norman (Elenore), Bob (Diane), and Lee (Barbara) Heinrich.

Wheels, PADS, Friends of the Barrington Area Library, Girl Scouts, PTO, Chicago’s Women’s District Golf Association, Barrington Art Associates, and The Rest Haven Cemetery Board.

Alice Marilyn Buchholz

She was the devoted mother of Jane (Michael) Griffin and Jill (Donald) Minner; loving grandmother of Jason (Jackie Curran) Griffin, Alison (Justin Freiberg) Griffin, Mark (Anna Niehaus) Minner, and Courtney (Erik) Johnson; cherished great grandmother of Emerson, Audrey-Rose, Rowan, and Brennan Griffin, and Henry Johnson; beloved sister to Marilyn (Joe) Weiland and Judy Georgias (Al Thomale); several dear cousins; adored aunt to many nieces and nephews; and cherished friend Lola Mugalian. Church, family, and community were always at the center of Alice’s life. At age 7 she joined the choir at Humboldt Park Evangelical United Brethren Church in Chicago. She continued singing in church choirs through the age of 70. Alice graduated from Kelvyn Park High School in 1945, attended North Central College, then married John Buchholz on May 10, 1947. An avid athlete and fan, she loved cheering for her grandchildren at their sporting events and concerts.

Alice was a consummate volunteer, serving as an officer on Presbyterian Church boards and women’s groups, chaperoning 7 mission trips, and teaching Sunday School in Palatine, Rockford, and Barrington. She was active in the Infant Welfare Society, Meals with

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: The Presbyterian Church of Barrington Music Memorial Fund or the American Heart Association. A service will be held on Sunday, September 8th, at 1:30 pm at The Presbyterian Church of Barrington, 6 Brinker Rd., Barrington, IL, followed by a reception at the church.

Theodore Eugene Lind, 84

full-ride scholarship to the University of Illinois, where he would get accepted into their rigorous LAS Physics program. His four years at the University of Illinois fatefully led up to him meeting the love of his life, Norma Joyce Lind, one day on a shuttle bus for university students. They began dating exclusively soon after. Ted completed his physics course load in addition to double minors in math and chemistry, achieving his undergraduate degree in physics from the University of Illinois in 1963.

Theodore Eugene Lind

Theodore Eugene Lind, 84, was taken from us tragically and suddenly last week. His legacy is defined by his proud service as an Avionics Officer Technical Instructor in the United States Air Force, as an accomplished Manager of Advanced Engineering at Motorola, and above all, as a devoted family man to his wife, daughter, and three grandkids.

Adopted son of Agnes Zupan and Nicholas Lind, Ted was born in 1940 and raised in Irving Park, Chicago, for most of his formative years before relocating to the rural suburb of Richmond, Illinois, shortly after starting high school.

Ted graduated from Richmond-Burton Community High School in 1958 as a National Merit Scholar, prospering in his new environment. However, his achievements in high school were not limited to just academia, as his interest in photography burgeoned into a life-long passion during his role as a photographer for the school newspaper and yearbook. This change of scenery also granted him the invaluable experience of helping run his family’s newly acquired farm alongside his parents and adopted brother, Dennis “Denny” Lind.

Qualifying for the Illinois State Scholars program, Ted leveraged this into a

Where to send obituaries

Shortly after, Ted began his career at Oak Manufacturing in Crystal Lake, Illinois, working as an electrical engineer. This didn’t last long, however, as the draft for the Vietnam War was looming. Not leaving his fate up to chance, Ted marched into an Air Force recruiting office in Crystal Lake where he signed up to become an Avionics Officer. Ted married his then-girlfriend, Norma, in 1963, almost immediately after he completed Officer Training School at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

At the end of his four-year career in the Air Force, Ted landed a job with Motorola almost immediately. The blessings continued as the couple welcomed their first and only child, Christine Lind, to the world on June 12th, 1968. Purchasing his first home in 1973, Ted and his wife chose the quiet and walkable western Chicago suburb of Lombard as a place to raise their child and begin their life as a family. The family spent much of their time traveling, camping, and seeing friends. It was also during this time that Ted made his mark at Motorola by developing new methods and designs that secured him six government patents in the form of piezoelectric resonators and new methods for quartz crystal synthesis. After achieving his MBA from the Lake Forest Graduate School of Management, Ted began to climb the corporate ladder at Motorola, making many lifelong friends and connections along the way.

Ted worked at Motorola for 32 years until he retired from his role as Manager of Advanced Engineering in 1999.

n You may email obituary information to pr@thewoodstockindependent.com, or mail or drop it off at our office, 671 E. Calhoun St., Woodstock, IL 60098.

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As his many employees, managers, and co-workers can attest, his dedication to his job was matched only by his natural curiosity and unparalleled people skills. His retirement did not signal the end of his professional life, however, as he joined the volunteer staff of the People’s Resource Center in Wheaton, Illinois, that same year. Volunteering in the capacity of Computer Access and Training Manager, he served his community for 25 years before COVID restrictions and remote work eventually made it impractical for him to continue.

After championing the ideals of patriotism, hard work, and generosity for over 50 years, Ted eventually resigned himself to the quiet life of taking care of his wife, Norma, and spending more time with his daughter and grandkids. In his retirement, he loved to spend Sunday dinners with his family, researching new developments in technology and world affairs, photographing a wide variety of subject matter (mostly his family and friends), and meeting up with his group of friends from Motorola. Ted always managed to find a way to relate to others, demonstrate genuine empathy, and be an inspiration to everyone around him. His candid spirit and unfailing kindness were two things everybody knew him for, and he lived that way until the very end. He is survived by his daughter, Christine Lind Robertson, and her three sons: Ethan, Aidan, and Declan Robertson. His profound impact on all of their lives was something every father and grandfather aspires to, and even in death, their memory of him will be one that is both lasting and incorruptible.

A visitation was held on Sunday, August 4th, from 12:00 AM to 3:00 PM, at Davenport Family Funeral Home located at 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave, Crystal Lake, Illinois. A funeral service was held on the same day and location at 2:00 PM. Burial was at Crystal Lake Memorial Park (8012 Ridgefield Rd, Crystal Lake IL).

See memorial page for donation details at davenportfamily.com.

Sondra Flood, 86

Sondra Flood, age 86, of Woodstock, passed away August 9, 2024. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Schneider Leucht Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home.

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

Hours: Mon-Thurs 10-6, Fri 10-5, Sat 10-4

Sundays by appointment only

Contractors

Come see our large selection of in stock carpet and vinyl ready for install!

2020 S. Eastwood Drive (Rt. 47) Woodstock, IL 815-334-5985

restaurant choice, all within walking distance of shopping, entertainment and the Metra train line.

“As long as I’ve been on council, since 2005, this has been an issue … seeking an opportunity to have a quality hotel in our downtown area,” said Woodstock Mayor Mike Turner. “And to see this come to fruition is exciting, it’s thrilling …. it’s a bit of a game changer for us as a city, to have this in our downtown. So, I couldn’t be more thrilled.”

Making it happen

In 2022, the city commissioned Core Distinction Group to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of attracting a new hotel, specifically in the downtown area. A total of 67 local businesses filled out a 14-question survey, with 87% saying that Woodstock needed a new hotel.

The study’s 200+ page report also summarized the city’s economic indicators and an overview of the competitive lodging supply. Core Distinction Group later recommended Woodstock as a location to the developer, Kebb CS-WK.

At the meeting, the council also credited the work of city staff for the project, including the efforts of former staff member George Hahne, who has since passed away. Former Woodstock Economic Development Director Garrett Anderson was also credited as a key player in the effort.

TIF funding

Tax increment financing (TIF) is a way to encourage development that Woodstock considers a priority, but that otherwise may not have happened, said Woodstock City Manager Roscoe Stelford. The hotel satisfies several TIF legal requirements, including “extraordinary costs.”

“If we can get them, in essence, to overbuild in our community, with nicer amenities and with better finishes, better materials, there is a cost to that, that is extraordinary … something that likely couldn’t be supported by our current local market,” said Stelford. What is up to the council to decide, Stelford added, is if the project is worthy of a TIF.

As part of the TIF agreement that was approved, the hotel will not have to pay property tax, estimated at

This is an example of a Cobblestone hotel design, including a Wissota Chophouse. The actual hotel will be designed to complement the Woodstock location site.

$85,000 per year at the start, for a period of 18 years, or until a $2 million cap is reached.

“The TIF funds … are actually all tied to the future payments they make on that property,” said Turner at the meeting. “We are not using TIF dollars from elsewhere in the city. That’s … fairly significant.”

Even though the hotel will not be liable for property tax during the TIF period, they will still generate hotel/ motel taxes, approximately $110,000 a year, which will go to the city.

Parking needs

The hotel will take away the 58 spaces in the current city parking lot, while only adding back 25 spaces back when the hotel is built. To address this, as well as an ever-growing need for parking on the Square, the city is purchasing an empty lot adjacent to the hotel site for $549,000. The lot is owned in part by former council member Jim Prindiville. Stelford said there are no special rules involving a land purchase from a prior council member.

In addition, two current city parking areas, located next to the vacant lot being purchased, will be reconfigured, resulting in a total of 147 spaces for the three parcels.

During hotel construction, temporary parking solutions for the loss of the 58 spaces on the building site could include leasing space in private lots, opening up some on-street parking, and overnight street parking permits.

When the hotel is open, Stelford said the city could work with the hotel to identify the cars of hotel guests who need to leave a car parked overnight in a city lot for several days in a row.

Conveying city land

According to the ordinance, Woodstock will be conveying the land for the hotel site to the developer. This means that the city will turn the title over to the developer before construction begins. If the hotel is completed on schedule, to agreed-upon standards, the developer will not be required to pay for the land. If the project shuts down for any reason, the developer will either have to buy the lot from the city for the agreed-upon price of $400,000 or convey the title back to the city. It would be up to the council to decide which option is preferred.

Public notice for city property

Because the deal involves the transfer of city property, state law requires that the land be posted as open for other potential proposals.

Council member Gordie Tebo asked whether this would delay the project. Stelford said that the developer has other things that can be worked on in the interim while the public notice process is open. If an alternate offer was submitted, the council would have the authority to choose whatever plan they wanted.

Timeline

The developer must agree to the timeline set forth by the council:

• March 1, 2025: submit proof that financing is in place

• April 1, 2025: submit all applications for permits and approvals

• June 1, 2025: submit construction contract and proof of all approvals

• August 1, 2026: construction completion deadline

• September 1, 2026: opening day deadline

Free drug take-back program at the McHenry County Courthouse

Dr. Michael Rein and the McHenry County Coroner’s Office have teamed up with Inmar Intelligence Company to launch a new drug take-back program for McHenry County. This initiative will allow county residents to safely dispose of unused medication and help eliminate any possible high concentrations of drugs in the local water supply.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has reported that approximately 75% of heroin users’ first experience with opioids comes from the medicine cabinets of family and friends. Additionally, an Associated Press investigation found measurable concentrations of pharmaceuticals in the water supplies of at least 46 million people in 24 major metropolitan areas.

In an effort to curb this growing problem, the Coroner’s Office will now have an ongoing place to dispose of medications at no cost. People will be able to bring all outdated or unused overthe-counter (OTC) drugs for disposal, including pills, capsules, inhalers, and even liquids. Over-the-counter supplements ARE NOT included.

Residents may stop by the Annex A Building behind the courthouse, 2200 N. Seminary Ave., during normal business hours and drop these medications into the green bin, conveniently located in the building’s entryway.

There is no charge to residents and no charge to the Coroner’s Office.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to the Coroner’s Office at 815-338-9392 for details.

COURTESY PHOTO

Birds-eye views show the progress on the new pickleball courts, rebuilt tennis courts, and the brand new Intergenerational Inclusive Playground in Emricson Park.

PICKLEBALL

Continued from Page 1

advance signup or reservation needed. Indoor Drop-in pickleball at the Recreation Center is only available at specific times of the day. For info, go to the city website at www.woodstockil. gov, and click on the Recreation tab.

Indoor pickleball is free for Recreation Center members. Nonmembers pay $5 per visit.

Intergeneration Inclusive Playground

Progress is also on track for the opening of the Intergenerational Inclusive Playground in Emricson

Park this fall, said Pentecost. The project broke ground in July, and Pentecost said they are still anticipating completion sometime late in October.

The space will include accessible game and picnic tables in a shaded shelter; an ADA-compliant restroom with an adult-size changing table; and a bus turnaround parking area to

equipment; a Rail-Rider with tracks to glide on; a Zoom Twist climbing and spinning feature; and a Quiet Grove that features sensory activities to help children alleviate stress.

In addition to the play area, a National Fitness Campaign Fitness Court for teens and adults will feature circuit training at seven stations: Core, Squat, Push, Lunge, Pull, Agility, and Bend.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for the playground’s opening. presents

INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY ANDREW ROUSEY

Good news recently about downtown Woodstock developments has lifted the spirits of those of us who were bummed out by the announcements this past spring that the Public House restaurant and Makity Make crafts shop would be closing after only a few months in business at the newly renovated Old Courthouse Center.

The historic former courthouse, jail, and sheriff’s house were extensively restored and remodeled, and a restaurant was considered critical to the success of the complex. That’s why the city tried so hard to make Public House successful in its remodeled space, but it was not to be. Still, the Old Courthouse Center needs a restaurant in that space, which is especially important for convenient food service to the adjacent MobCraft brew pub for its crowd of hungry beer drinkers.

That need could be met at next week’s meeting of the City Council, when a lease agreement with a new restaurant operator, as well as a lease agreement for the now empty Courthouse incubator space, are on the tentative agenda. And such a proposed agenda is, indeed, tentative.

The business of the city changes constantly, and so do future agendas.

For example, the restaurant lease has been on one prior agenda and the incubator space lease has been

New garbage proposal puts burden on singles, seniors

I attended the Wednesday, Aug. 7, meeting at City Hall to learn more about the new garbage service proposal and costs for the residents of the city of Woodstock that will go into effect for 2025. The new proposal eliminates the current sticker system used by many seniors, single person households, and households

Woodstock, IL • 1987

We’re tentatively excited

on two prior agendas. And a 10-acre redevelopment agreement between the city and Chicago Hubs Realty has been on and off the council agenda for more than a year as the two parties negotiate construction of a proposed senior housing complex and, later, market-priced apartments along with commercial and retail space, and maybe even a five-story parking garage, all on former Die

Cast factory site along Clay Street. That project was on last week’s City Council agenda, but the only action the council took was to delay any action by approving “postponement of the repeal and replacement of a redevelopment agreement by and between” the city and CHR “to a time indefinite for consideration on a future agenda.” Woodstock City Manager Roscoe Stelford said the word

“indefinite” was just a procedural way to place the project on a future agenda when a date for the next step has not been set yet. However, he still estimates that construction on the site should start in 2025.

And there was good news at last week’s council meeting when a hotel redevelopment agreement was approved by the council. Work has been going on behind the scenes at City Hall to bring a badly needed hotel to Woodstock, and it appears a 60-room Cobblestone Inn will be in business by summer 2026 at Jefferson and Calhoun streets, the current site of a city-owned public parking lot.

As a bonus, the Wisconsin developer, Kebb-CS WK will build a Wissota Chophouse restaurant on the site as part of a $12.6 million project. The city will provide about $2 million in tax incentives as well as donating the land for the hotel, worth $400,000. The city will also support the project by purchasing the adjacent empty lot for parking, to replace parking spots lost when the hotel goes up, and to serve the ever-growing need for parking on the Square.

So for now, Woodstock should be “tentatively” thrilled by the prospects for a downtown hotel, new restaurants, and a new business coming to the Courthouse incubator space. We were due for some good news.

that focus on recycling and reducing waste that enters the waste stream.

Under the new system, every household, regardless of how much garbage is generated by that household, will have to pay $23.50 per month for garbage service. A Senior rate of $15.50 could be applied for by persons 65 or older. The sticker system of paying $3.38 per bag is scheduled to be eliminated.

The math being done to adopt a

new contract with MDC is putting the burden of the city’s garbage disposal cost on our seniors, single person households, and those who are committed to reducing waste and are recycling. There couldn’t be a more blatantly inequitable distribution of costs for the city’s residents. People on fixed incomes, our senior population that is largely female, and those who have diligently helped reduce the city’s waste stream for decades,

are the ones being unfairly taxed under this new plan. Many of the single person households are people living in townhomes and condominiums in our community with single car garages. Many will not have room for the large tote system that is being proposed.

To our city manager…I know you think this is a good deal. It’s a good deal for MDC. They currently have

Continued on Next page

EDITORIAL CARTOON BY CHIP HUMBERTSON

‘This is huge. Really huge!’

“Starting this fall, we have 100 students.” Those were Clint Gabbard’s first words when we greeted each other at the University Center ribbon cutting Aug. 1.

Clint Gabbard is Dr. Gabbard, president of McHenry County College.

The University Center is a dream come true for MCC graduates and everyone else with an associate’s degree who want to continue their studies close to home.

The University Center is right here in Woodstock – at 222 Church St.

Cheryl Wormley Declarations

You know the building – it’s across the street from Wayne’s Lane. It’s been a grocery store more than once, a Sears call center, the Woodstock Public Library temporarily, the Challenger Learning Center, and most recently Aurora University. It must be a building with really good bones to accommodate having had its interior remodeled again and again for so many good uses.

Its transformation to the University Center is impressive, and all new – except the Challenger Center’s Orientation Room with its tiered seating and star-like ceiling. The Orientation Room is now Gliniecki Hall – perfect for lectures and

named for Dana and Greg Gliniecki, one of the primary University Center donors.

It thrills me to imagine a student pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree remembering sitting in that very space as a fifth-grader on a Challenger Center mission!

The educational partners with MCC in this cutting-edge endeavor are Aurora University, Northern Illinois University, Roosevelt University, and Southern Illinois University. Students will apply to the university that is offering their chosen major:

• Aurora University: elementary education, social work, RN to BSN, Master of Arts in Education, Master of Social Work;

• Northern Illinois University: business administration, computer science, early childhood education, public health, and psychology;

• Roosevelt University: criminal justice, graphic design, BSBA Finance, BSBA Human Resources, BSBA Marketing, Master of Business Administration; and

• Southern Illinois University Carbondale: accounting, and industrial management and applied engineering.

Tom Liebman, a friend of MCC and representative of the Liebman family that has financially supported MCC for decades, spoke to the crowd: representatives of the partnering universities; University Center administration; MCC faculty, staff and board members; city of

Woodstock mayor, council members and staff; donors; and friends. Liebman told of working as a bagger of groceries when he was a teen in the same spot where he was speaking. “This is huge,” he said. “Really huge!”

Liebman emphasized the financial advantages offered by the University Center – saving money on room, board, and travel expenses, and keeping current employment. “All without leaving McHenry County, without leaving Woodstock,” he said.

The naming of the Liebman Family Collaboration Hub recognizes the Liebmans’ significant donation to the University Center and continued support of MCC.

A bit of other useful and interesting information about the University Center:

• Kailley Harmon is executive director of the University Center. Her email address is kharmon@mcc. edu.

• The number of students enrolled has increased since the ribbon cutting. It is now more than 100. For reference, the University Center at Harper College, Palatine, had just 13 students when it opened in 2018 and now has hundreds.

• Classes begin Aug. 19 and most will be in session afternoons and evenings Mondays to Thursday. Think of it … Woodstock is now a university town. That’s huge. Really huge!

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Staff

PUBLISHER EMERITA Cheryl Wormley c wormley@thewoodstockindependent com

PUBLISHER Rebecca McDaniel rebecca@thewoodstockindependent com

EDITOR Larry Lough larry@thewoodstockindependent com

ADVERTISING Jill Flores jill@thewoodstockindependent com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Sandy Kucharski sandy@thewoodstockindependent.com

COLUMNISTS

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

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Andrew Rousey, Vicky Long

CORRESPONDENTS

Tricia Carzoli, Janet Dovidio, Susan W. Murray, Megan Ivers, Lydia LaGue, Eileen Millard, Ruth Raubertas, Caryl Dierksen, Juel Mecklenburg, Seth Rowe, Amanda Burr, Lisa Kunzie, Jen Nichols

EDITORIAL CARTOONISTS Jim Mansfield, Chip Humbertson

PROOFREADER Don Humbertson

CIRCULATION

Beverly Meuch, Dennis Micheletti, Bill Schwerdtfeger, John Wickham

Deadlines & contacts

NOON WEDNESDAY Press releases and photos pr@thewoodstockindependent com

5212 accounts through the city of Woodstock and they will gain approximately another 2800 new accounts composed of the people who don’t have the greater need for garbage pickup. What’s wrong with this picture?

Residents who currently use the sticker system and put out one bag of garbage twice a month at the current $3.38 per sticker rate will see their cost go from $6.76 per month to the $15.50 per month (if a senior) or $23.50. This amounts to a 247% increase for these residents and a 129% increase for seniors.

Households currently using the tote system pay $83 for 3 months ($27.66 per month). Under the proposed contract, the residents filling the large totes will pay less at $23.50 per month, less than what they are already paying?

The city needs to add a small tote option to reduce the cost for small households and seniors and at the same time eliminate the bins MDC no longer wants to pick up. Don’t send the city backwards and reduce recycling by forcing people to pay large tote fees that will discourage recycling.

Anne Weirich Woodstock

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Summer hiring success for D-200

D-200 opens school year with additional staff members, would welcome more

By Caryl Dierksen NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

As the new school year gets underway in Woodstock schools, District 200 administrators are pleased with the results of their summer hiring. They have made significant progress in recruiting teachers and school bus drivers, while they hope to continue adding staff in other areas.

Associate Superintendent Brian McAdow, who is in charge of human resources, said that the district is in very good shape in terms of teacher hiring. As of two weeks ago, there was only one teaching opening districtwide, and that was due to a recent resignation. “We are markedly improved compared with where we were two years ago,” he said.

McAdow also said a growing number of new bus drivers has helped alleviate the shortage of the past few years. One incentive has been a pay raise, with the starting wage increasing to $22.04 per hour. He credits Transportation Director Mike Freeman and his staff for training the new recruits. “If you get in the pipeline, you will get your license,” McAdow said.

Freeman said his department has hired 17 new bus drivers in the past two years. This need was created, in part, by the retirements of a number of longtime drivers. This year, he noted, 38 percent of all District 200 retirees were transportation employees.

“We have an older driving force that’s now getting younger,” Freeman said. “We’re not yet to where we need to be, but we’re definitely moving in the right direction.” He added, “Even though we’re doing better, we’re always looking.”

Other openings still available

Superintendent Mike Moan summarized the district’s other hiring

An empty classroom awaits students and staff when school opens Wednesday. District

schools

staffed and ready for the 2024-2025 school year after making significant progress in recruiting teachers over the summer.

needs in this way: “Social workers are harder to find, and we have a few openings district wide. We are always searching for classroom associates, food service personnel, bus drivers, substitute teachers, and we have open positions there.”

The district’s greatest need at this time is in the broad category of classroom associates. Most of them work with individual or small groups of students under the supervision of a classroom teacher. Many, though not all, work with special education students. They work 6 to 6.5 hours per day at a starting pay of $16.50 per hour. Associates are required to have an Illinois paraprofessional license. To obtain that license, they must

have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED.

Associate says, ‘Come join us’

Darcy Kniola is excited to begin her ninth year as a classroom associate at Olson School. Like many of her coworkers, she was first attracted to the position because she had children in school and wanted a work schedule that matched theirs.

She began as a lunchroom associate, a position that requires only two hours per day. As soon as all of her children were in school, she went fulltime as a classroom associate.

As an RTI (response to intervention) associate, she works under the supervision of a certified teacher as

she helps individuals or groups of four to seven students strengthen their reading skills. By the end of her day, she has worked with about 30 kids from all grade levels.

She said, “I love being around the kids and being part of their day. It is fun seeing what they can accomplish… When a lightbulb goes on and the kid gets it, it is so exciting. And we get to experience that with them.”

She added, “If you would like this thrill too, come join us.”

District 200 has a variety of associate’s positions open at different grade levels. A complete list of openings in the district is available at https:// woodstockschools.tedk12.com/hire.

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY ANDREW ROUSEY

200

will be

We’re ready for another amazing school year

By Mike Moan DISTRICT 200

The start of a new school year has always been my favorite time of year. I love the excitement of starting a new adventure and anticipate the great moments ahead for our students, staff and families.

From kindergarteners and parents just beginning their journey to our high school seniors and families completing their District 200 career for new journeys, this is a memorable time. I cherish the role we play for so many.

We never take for granted the support of our parents, families, and communities who embrace our educational partnership. As a proud product of Woodstock schools, along with four generations of my family, I’ve always appreciated living and working in a community that values education and sets high standards for our students and our schools.

Visiting schools during this first week to see so much hope and promise is a great reminder of why we do what we do and of our privilege to provide students with the best educational experience we can offer. Each

day we see so much potential. Each May we see that potential realized, but there are many steps and much work along the way.

The new school year is a fresh chance to put our best foot forward whether you’re stepping off the bus into kindergarten for the first time, poring over your lesson plan for the 20th time, or leading your home district for over a decade, this is an opportunity we cherish.

Seeing a new year through the eyes of a child is inspiring and something that we as educators are fortunate to witness.The excitement, hope and determination is contagious.

It’s appropriate that we celebrate our success in the spring, but that enthusiasm stays with us all summer and into the fall where we expect to keep building on our success and improving on the great foundation that we’ve already built.

Our achievement scores continue to rise but more importantly, our students are more prepared than ever to meet that next challenge whether it’s fifth grade, AP Calculus or the amazing opportunities that lie ahead for graduates.

As always, we encourage students to be engaged in all aspects of their education. From learning to read in early elementary school to the rigors of middle school algebra and the challenge of high school AP and Dual Credit classes, we encourage our students to give it all they have. We also offer many opportunities for students to deepen their school community connections in clubs, sports teams, theater productions and our awardwinning music programs.

We’re excited about the advance work our staff have put in to keep making District 200 even better each year. It’s great to welcome back our outstanding teachers, but we’re also looking forward to working with our new colleagues who bring enthusiasm and fresh perspectives.

Speaking of new colleagues, we could always use a few more. We have openings at schools across the District for classroom associates, food services, substitute teachers and bus drivers among other positions. Just click the Employment tab at woodstockschools.org for more information. This is a great place to work and consistently voted as one of the top

educational workplaces in McHenry County. Many of these positions are also perfect fits for parents of schoolaged children who’d like to work according to their children’s school schedule.

As the school year opens, we want to thank our entire community for the continued support that allows us to offer so many wonderful opportunities for our students. The children of our community are lucky to have the support our communities provide.

Together we’ll take on any obstacle, stay solution-oriented and always focus our decisions on what’s best for these students. Our promise as educators is that we’ll never lose sight of the fact that these students truly are our future and why we’ve chosen this profession.

We’re looking forward to another great year of learning and celebrating our individual, school and District successes. These are your schools, your community, and it’s so much better when we celebrate them together.

Mike Moan is the superintendent of schools for Woodstock Community Unit School District 200.

store Open House Aug. 16

We are thrilled to announce an Open House at our Carpentersville location, featuring manufacturers representatives from Arrow Sewing Furniture and the Daylight Company. Join us for an exciting day filled with insightful demonstrations, exclusive giveaways, and a delightful dessert table. This is a perfect opportunity to explore the latest innovations in the industry and connect with like-minded individuals. We can’t wait to welcome you!

A & E

MCC art galleries welcome two new exhibits in August

Works by Christine Forni and Ginny Krueger are featured

Staff Report NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

McHenry County College will be hosting two unique art exhibits now through Sept. 13 in Galleries One and Two and the Epping Gallery respectively.

Christine Forni

On display in Galleries One and Two, located inside and outside the library, is Natural Recall by Christine Forni. Natural Recall addresses the shifting landscapes of nature and memory by deconstructing and then reinterpreting relationships merging from the past to the present.

Forni captures moments of solitude with terrain using light in interaction with glass, porcelain, reclaimed minerals, and paint skins. The work merges unused remnants or overlooked relics to evoke, recall, and remember. Salvaged and mounted together like specimens, they form a “beautiful but broken” material memory of a point in time. Unlike precious specimens, these are not preserved under glass but placed vulnerably on the surface with their fragility on display.

Currently based in Chicago, Christine Forni

is a multidisciplinary artist working in painting and sculpture, alternative photography, drawing, and installation. Her work has been exhibited at venues such as Ueno Royal Japanese Art Museum and Awagami Paper Museum, Japan; Museo Internazionale Italia Arte and Museo di Scienze Naturali, Italy; Busan Federation of Art & Culture, South Korea; Centro de Artesanía Catalunya, Spain; and many locations across the United States.

For more information about Forni, visit www. christineforni.com and her Instagram page @ christineforni.

There will be an artist talk with Forni on Wednesday, September 11, from 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. in the Luecht Auditorium at MCC (Room B170). A reception with the artist will follow the talk in Gallery One (A212x). Both events are free and open to the public.

Ginny Krueger

On display in the Epping Gallery through September 13 will be Reverie by artist Ginny Krueger. The Epping Gallery is located on the lower level of Building B, across from the MCC Store.

In the summer of 2023, Krueger was immersed in the culture of the coastal southeastern region of Spain, Catalunya. The essence of this warm, welcoming place was hers to capture at a professional printmaking studio called “Art Print Residence.” Reverie is a collection of abstractions, realized amidst the expansiveness of novelty and wanderings in Catalunya.

Ginny Krueger is an abstract painter who derives inspiration from the land and the beauty, complexity, and interconnectivity of the natural world. She received her Master of Fine Arts degree from Northern Illinois University in 1995. She has received the Illinois Arts Council fellowship grant and has been awarded numerous artist residencies in Canada, Mexico, Scotland, Greece, Iceland, and Spain. For more about the artist, visit www.ginnykrueger.com.

For more information about the art galleries at MCC, to request pricing, or to be added to the mailing list for upcoming exhibitions, please contact Trevor Power, Art Gallery Curator, at tpower@mchenry.edu. To learn more about current art exhibits at MCC, visit www. mchenry.edu/artgallery/current.html.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Ginny Krueger, Arenys de Munt: Gander, 2023, Collagraph monoprint (left).

Christine Forni, Looking for Refractions in the Light, 2024, Oil and acrylic on canvas, paint skins, glass, stainless steel wire and aluminum

REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

Transactions filed in the McHenry County Recorder’s Office July 16 to 18.

■ Residence at 1916 N. Illinois Route 47, Woodstock, was sold by Cartus Financial Corporation, Danbury, Conn., to Leonard J. LaPaglia, Woodstock, for $415,000.

■ Residence at 2545 Applewood Lane, Woodstock, was sold by Hometown Ltd., Woodstock, to Alondra Citlali Barrera, Woodstock, for $229,000.

■ Residence at 503 Dean St., Woodstock, was sold by Home State Bank N.A., Crystal Lake, to Heather’s Homes LLC, Series 503 Dean St., Huntley, for $240,000.

■ Farm at U.S. Highway 14 west of Park Lane Drive, Woodstock, was sold by Lechner Family LLC, Woodstock, to Wayne and Terri Manke LLC, Woodstock, for $600,000.

■ Residence at 3812 Woodstock St., Wonder Lake, was sold by Charles Trusty, Island Lake, to Charlie Carbajal, Wonder Lake, for $200,000.

■ Residence at 275 Ridgewood Drive, Woodstock, was sold by The Estate of Marjorie Emricson, McHenry, to Jacob Adams, Woodstock, for $200,000.

■ Residence at 1403 N. Madison St., Woodstock, was sold by Robert Ortiz, Woodstock, to Elfego Alejandro Cruz Esquivel, Woodstock, for $233,000.

■ Residence at 501 S. Rose Farm Road, Woodstock, was sold by The Anne M. Miller Trust, Woodstock, to Arthur L. Budelier and Dolores A. Budelier, Woodstock, for $750,000.

The photo is of a king suite at the Cobblestone Hotel and Suites in Janesville. The guestroom is described as having a kitchenette, separate bedroom with one king bed, and a living room with a sleeper sofa.

New inn offers more rooms

Previewing the Cobblestone Hotel and Suites, slated for a 2026 opening

By Susan W. Murray NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

As word leaked out that a developer wanted to put a hotel in downtown Woodstock, the questions have come thick and fast.

Primary among them: What’s the name of the hotel and what will it look like?

The name “Cobblestone” might not be familiar to residents as a hotel chain, but given the surface of the streets on the Woodstock Square, it’s been a common moniker for businesses over the years.

Once housed on Van Buren Street, in the Read Between the Lynes storefront, Cobblestones was a home goods and food store that

operated in the 1990s and early 2000s. In the 1980s, the Cobblestone townhome subdivision went up east of Route 47, off Cobblestone Way.

According to the company’s website, Cobblestone Hotels got its start in 2007 when Brian Wogernese, now president and CEO of Cobblestone Hotels, drove from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Oshkosh, Wisconsin. As he motored through one small town after another, Wogernese realized that many small towns had an unmet need for a hotel.

The big name hotel brands were not interested in building anything with fewer than 65 units, so Wogernese undertook to fill the

need himself. In January 2008, a 31-unit Cobblestone Inn and Suites opened in Clintonville, Wisconsin, a town of 5,000 people, 43 miles northwest of Green Bay.

Since then, the Neenah, Wisconsin-based company has expanded to 175 locations in 29 states.

Another 50 locations are under development, including Lynden, Washington; Wickenburg, Arizona; and Bellefontaine, Ohio.

A downtown model

The Cobblestone umbrella includes six brands of varying size and design. Planned for Woodstock is the Cobblestone Hotel and

COURTESY PHOTOS

Continued

Suites.

On its website, the company describes the brand as its MainStreet model, meant for a downtown location with “convenient access to all the community has to offer, while fusing warm, modern design elements and local history throughout the hotel.”

The 60-unit hotel, with a proposed room rate of $155.00 per night, will face Jefferson St. and include a guest laundry, indoor pool, fitness center, and conference boardroom.

The closest town to Woodstock with a Cobblestone Hotel and Suites is Janesville, Wisconsin.

The hotel includes a mix of rooms with a single king or two queen beds. The suites include living rooms with sleeper sofas.

And a restaurant, to boot

Not only can Woodstock residents look forward to a downtown hotel, the property will include an upscale steakhouse.

One of the hotel amenities is a complimentary hot breakfast. In the evening, the hotel’s breakfast room and outdoor patio double as a dining room for the Wissota Chophouse.

Perusing the Wissota’s menu online shows four choices for salads; French onion or lobster bisque soup; and a selection of steaks and chops that range from the $46.00 petite filet to an 18-ounce, 85-day dry-aged, bone-in ribeye for $109.00. A Mediterranean chicken breast and four varieties of seafood round out the menu. Side dishes, such as garlic chive whipped potatoes, are intended for two to split.

At the top of the wishlist

At the August 6 City Council meeting, councilman Bob Seegers expressed his enthusiasm for the project.

“Since I’ve been on this council,” Seegers said, “the business community, the manufacturing community, and the employment community in Woodstock have been asking for this. So it actually feels good for us to be able to provide [those communities] with what they’ve been asking us for.”

Two years ago, the Core Distinction Group submitted the results of a two-month study to determine the feasibility of bringing a hotel

to Woodstock, specifically to the downtown.

Sixty-seven local businesses responded to the group’s 14-question survey, with 87% saying that Woodstock needed a new hotel. Part of the demand was

dissatisfaction with the thenavailable options for out-of-town guests.

Guests who’ve stayed at the Super 8 or Quality Inn and Suites currently give each hotel an “average” rating on the Tripadvisor

website.

The newly branded and renovated AmericInn by Wyndham now garners a “very good” rating from guests.

In addition to businesses that host out-of-town guests, Groundhog Days and other events attract visitors who want to stay in town. Parties and weddings draw guests who need overnight lodging.

Since Courthouse Square opened on September 1, 2023, the event space in the Old Courthouse has hosted 48 parties, including wine tastings and weddings, said Michael Ervin, one of Ethereal Confections’ three co-owners.

Over that same period of time, he said, Ethereal has hosted 39 events in its Loft space.

“Woodstock has the chance to be a destination city, and having a cornerstone hotel right off the Square is the foundation of that possibility,” Ervin said. “We’ve worked really hard to build a wedding business, a speakeasy, and a bean-to-bar chocolate company. Having a hotel and dining options right near the Square to help support that is something we’ve hoped would happen for a long time!”

COURTESY PHOTOS

Used as a breakfast room, the dining space is converted into the Wissota Chophouse for dinner.

The Wissota Chophouse includes a space for outdoor dining.

Community

Top picks for SOAR@Dorr

Some of the most popular programs offered for seniors in Woodstock

By Jan Dovidio NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Seniors in Woodstock have an abundance of social activities and class choices at SOAR@Dorr (Serving Older Adult Residents) programs.

In addition to offering more than 30 classes and several lectures about social services each month, the senior activities include special outings to area locations. This article includes details of three outings offered regularly and the five most popular classes.

Participants in the monthly Lunch Date visit various locations for the midday meal. Recent restaurants included Chop Suey Hut, Isabel’s and El Niagara. The August 28th Lunch Date’s destination is the Corned Beef Factory.

The Supper Club group has enjoyed several restaurants including Golden Rolls, Heritage House, and Village Squire.

A Social Hour is scheduled once a month at both local and nearby locations for the enjoyment of appetizers and beverages. Participants have visited Liquid Blues, Vine and Plate, and Winestock.

“Our people really enjoy going with different people to different places,” SOAR@Dorr Director Laura Wassinger said. “They enjoy new ambiances, amazing food, and excellent service. Many have never been to these locations before and plan to return.”

All outings require preregistration. Transportation is not provided. Attendees pay their own tabs.

SOAR@Dorr offers nearly 30 activities each month that include fitness, exercising, games, crafts, lectures, book discussions, and much more. Here are five classes that currently attract the most participants. The center provides chairs, weights, bands and balls need for any class.

Cindy Vanderstappen is the fitness instructor for the Balance, Stretch and Strength class from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. every Monday. The class focus is on strengthening weakened muscles to improve balance and stretching to increase flexibility. Classes are done to music while sitting or standing. Keep Fit & Strong on Friday mornings from 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. is taught by Wassinger and assistant coach Linda Rohe. This class has six sections done to music: warm-up, lowimpact aerobics, balance work, lower body strengthening, upper body strengthening, and a cool down. Participants can sit or stand. Volunteer leader Roxie Kominski leads the Euchre session every Tuesday from 1:00 – 3:00. Newcomers are very welcome and are guided personally by Kominski . This fun and lively group has an almost equal number of men and women.

“Mah Jong volunteer leader Dolly Gibson convinced me that the game is one of the best one can play to keep their minds sharp and I agreed instantly!” Wassinger added. The class is held from 10:00 a.m. –11:30 a.m. every Friday. Newcomers receive Gibson’s guidance for as long as needed.

Bingo has an additional twist of food. Volunteer leader Donna Freeman and volunteer assistants Louise Cushley and Marie Klapperich lead the group from noon – 2:30 p.m. every Thursday. The cost is $3.00 per person. Players are encouraged to BYOL (Bring Your Own Lunch) but some weeks offer a lunch for a $5 fee that may be pizza, potato bar, or hot dog. The prepared meals require registration and prepayment.

“We have something for everyone,” Wassinger continued. “Our meal outings attract 15 or more

people, the more popular activities include anywhere from 15-25. My assistant Lynda Rohe and I never run out of energy or ideas; in fact we have too many of them! We encourage all area seniors to check out SOAR@Dorr. “

Questions about any classes or activities can be emailed to Wassinger at lauraw@dorrtownship. com. The SOAR@Dorr monthly calendar is found on the township’s website dorrtownship.org. SOAR@ Dorr is located in the Dorr Township building at 1039 Lake Avenue, Woodstock.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Bingo Bob at his favorite activity.

The Tuesday Euchre group.

The Supper Club visits Heritage House. Shirley Swenson (center) is talking to the waitress Colleen Thornton. The group threw a suprise birthday party for Swenson.

‘When

you hear his voice...’

Longtime auctioneer honored at McHenry County Fair

By Tricia Carzoli NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Gordon Stade has made a name for himself in the area as the head of Gordon Stade Auctions.

For 64 years, he has been a fixture in agriculture running auctions including the 4-H Sale of Champions Auction every year at the McHenry County Fair.

“When you hear his voice,” coleader of Woodstock Community Builders Club Donna Douglas said, “you know he is present. It is simply unmistakable.”

Five generations with 4-H

Stade has been a part of the Woodstock resident’s family for five generations.

“My grandfather – Earnest Swanson – and my father – Alan Swanson – purchased through Stade’s auctions,” Douglas said. “Gordon Stade then was the auctioneer for the 4-H Sale of Champions during my time in 4-H and my siblings, and he was the auctioneer for my children and then my grandchildren.”

In fact, during the 2023 4H Sale of Champions, Gordon Stade announced his retirement after 64 years.

“I didn’t know it at the time,” Douglas said, “but my granddaughter, Paige Douglas’ dairy wether goat was his last livestock auctioned.”

That was significant to Douglas.

“We’ve had five generations of my family work with [Stade],” she said. “From my grandfather who purchased from his auctions very early in the beginning of his career to my grandchildren – he’s been a part of our lives. He’s a staple of the McHenry County Fair, too. He always did an incredible job.”

Why

auction animals

Douglas said the yearly Sale of Champions is important because the 4-H members who raise livestock feel supported and affirmed,

could afford.”

While part of the land now belongs to the Village of Lakewood, she continues to raise goats on the land that holds such rich history and wonderful memories.

“The barn – the animals,” she mused, “ … they are peace. They are my calm.”

Her son, Bill Douglas, continues to farm, and her grandchildren have “inherited my farming genes,” Douglas explained. “I love that. I love that they had the opportunity to be a part of Gordon Stade’s auctioneering career.”

Fair recognition

knowing that the hours they put in raising their animals and caring for them has real value.

“For most of these kids,” she said, “the auction is how they afford their animals for the following year. Some of them put that towards education. Overall, the auction is significant – something we all look forward to.”

Often the community of bidders will purchase animals and donate the meat or the proceeds from the sale of the meat to a local

organization or food pantry.

“It is truly about the community helping both support the future of agriculture and the community itself,” she said.

Douglas, who works on the auction committee, continues to live on the same land her grandfather and father cultivated – raising livestock and growing crops. She recalls going to auctions as a child and young adult feeling exhilarated by the bidding – “hoping that you’d get what you wanted for the price you

Because of his dedication to 4-H and his commitment to agriculture, on Saturday, August 3, during the Sale of Champions auctioneered by Stade’s nephew Mike Stade, the livestock arena was dedicated as Hansen Pavilion Gordon Stade Livestock Arena.

“Everyone applauded,” she recalled. “And Gordon Stade was given a standing ovation.”

Stade even auctioneered for a few animals.

“It was very special,” Douglas said. “And it is so nice that it honors his legacy that is so much a part of our family’s memories.”

INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY ANDREW ROUSEY

Gordon Stade is honored at the dedication of the livestock arena at the McHenry County Fair Aug. 3.

Gordon Stade addresses the crowd as the arena is renamed Hansen Pavilion Gordon Stade Livestock Arena.

Happenings

MARKET

Woodstock Square

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

WEDNESDAY

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL District 200 schools

‘COME OUT SINGING’ KARAOKE COMPETITION Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St. 7 p.m. theatre121.org

15 THURSDAY

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

Marian Central Catholic High School

SLC TRIVIA NIGHT - PUB TRIVIA USA

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m.

woodstockoperahouse.com

16 FRIDAY

WONDER LAKE WATER SKI SHOW TEAM HOME SHOW Wonder Center Beach Wonder Lake

7 p.m.

JAZZ NIGHT Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

8 p.m. woodstockoperahouse.com

17 SATURDAY WOODSTOCK FARMERS

woodstockfarmersmarket.org Music: TBA

STORYBOOK PLAYERS

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

10 a.m. Free

HOME OF THE SPARROW VOLUNTEER FAIR & FAMILY FUN DAY

1991 Duncan Place Noon to 3 p.m. Free

WOODSTOCK ON THE SQUARE BENEFIT CAR SHOW

Woodstock Square 4-8 p.m. marullieventco@gmail.com

TRIPLE PLAY

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

8 p.m. Free

18 SUNDAY

OPEN MIC STORYTELLING

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St. 2 to 4 p.m.

Hosted by Jim May

19 MONDAY

GOLF BENEFIT FOR HOPE CENTER UGANDA

Bull Valley Country Club

10 a.m. hopecenteruganda.org

20 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

SONG OR GONG

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m.

$10 per team, free to watch

21 WEDNESDAY

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

St. Mary Catholic School

MEMORY MAKERS STORYTELLING GROUP

Woodstock Public Library

414 W. Judd St. (in person)

9:30 a.m. to noon

815-338-0542, ext. 14125

‘COME OUT SINGING’

KARAOKE COMPETITION

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m. theatre121.org

22 THURSDAY

WOODSTOCK FIRE/RESCUE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

2900 Raffel Road

7 p.m.

SLC TRIVIA NIGHT - PUB TRIVIA USA

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m.

woodstockoperahouse.com

23 FRIDAY

WONDER LAKE WATER SKI SHOW TEAM HOME SHOW

Wonder Center Beach Wonder Lake 7 p.m.

ORIGINAL OPEN MIC NIGHT

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St. 7 p.m. offsquaremusic.org

24 SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

woodstockfarmersmarket.org Music: TBA

STAGE LEFT PRESENTS

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

8 p.m.

$10 in advance, $15 at the door

27 TUESDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Resurrection Catholic Church

woodstockfarmersmarket.org Music: TBA

DUNGEONS AND DRAFTS

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 to 9 p.m. Free

28 WEDNESDAY

‘COME OUT SINGING’ KARAOKE COMPETITION

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m. theatre121.org

29 THURSDAY

SLC TRIVIA NIGHT - PUB TRIVIA USA

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

7 p.m.

woodstockoperahouse.com

30 FRIDAY

CINEMA SIPS - ‘THE BREAKFAST CLUB’

Stage Left Café

125 W. Van Buren St.

8 p.m.

$10 includes movie and 1 bag of popcorn

$20 VIP includes premium seating, unlimited popcorn.

31 SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

woodstockfarmersmarket.org Music: TBA

FLASHBACKS

35 years ago – 1989

■ The McHenry County Defenders, Hartland Families United, Alden Neighbors Together, and the McHenry County Land Savers had organized a campaign in opposition to the possible siting of a landfill in McHenry County.

■ Triathlete Cam Widoff, Woodstock, competed in Avignon, France, as a member of the United States triathlon team.

30 years ago – 1994

■ Lt. Gov. Bob Kustra visited Woodstock while in McHenry County to present a $1.3 million state grant to McHenry County College.

■ The Woodstock Public Library replaced its card catalog with a computerized catalog system.

25 years ago – 1999

■ Woodstock School District 200 purchased land on Charles Road to be used for a new transportation center.

■ Redeemer Lutheran Church won the city Church League softball championship.

■ The Woodstock Dolphins swim team placed third in its divisional meet at Dundee, finishing with 1,078.5 points.

20 years ago –2004

■ Centegra Health System applauded Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s decision to sign House Bill 7307 terminating all nine members of the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Board. At the time Centegra was appealing an April decision made by the IHFPB that approved a new 70-bed Mercy Health System Hospital in Crystal Lake. Centegra went to court the same day to add a second count to its charges against the IHFPB’s April decision.

15 years ago – 2009

■ The Woodstock City council voted 6-0 to approve a $92,703 contract to install new period-style light poles and fixtures as part of a downtown streetscape improvement project.

■ Red Barn Farm Market on Route

47 south of town was celebrating its 40th anniversary. Harvey and Norma Skerke started the market after purchasing a 280-acre farm in Woodstock. At the time of the 40th anniversary, Red Barn Farm Market was owned by John Skerke and Susan Klehm, son and daughter of Harvey and Norma, and John’s wife, Cathy.

■ The 40th anniversary of the iconic Woodstock Festival held in New York was being celebrated at Galt Airport in Greenwood. The event featured nine tribute bands paying homage to the artists who made the original festival a success. Jolene Stanard was credited with the idea of an event. Her husband, Michael Stanard, gave it his support, and Laura Witlox was the event organizer.

10 years ago – 2014

■ A military helicopter hovered over a crowd of about 250 who gathered at the McHenry County Government Center on Purple Heart Day, to dedicate McHenry County’s Purple Heart monument. The double-sided granite monument was placed in front of the main entrance to the courthouse. Woodstock resident Sgt. Richard Young organized the effort to erect

the monument.

■ The City Council approved Ethereal Confections request to be able to serve alcohol outside, making its café and bar a more visible part of the business.

■ Anne-Marie Elsinger, a 13-year-old Girl Scout and member of Woodstock Troop 325, had been awarded the highest achievement as a Girl Scout, the Gold Award.

5 years ago – 2019

■ Former Blue Streak athletes Jarod Baker, Justin Kucharski, and Jeremy Wolf celebrated their fourth straight victory in the overall team division in the We.Can.Tri. Triathlon at Emricson Park. It was the ninth annual sprintlevel triathlon sponsored by the Woodstock Recreation Department. Dan Thompson, Woodstock, was the individual winner for the fourth time.

■ The six–day, 71st McHenry County Fair fulfilled its motto, “Where farm and families meet.” There were hundreds of exhibits, all kinds of poultry, cavies, livestock, and dairy animals, tractor pulls, a rodeo, queen contest, demolition derby, and carnival.

■ Leadership Greater McHenry County’s summer internships were drawing

AUG. 10, 1994 –

Horses and drivers round the far turn at the McHenry County Fairgrounds during a harness race. Watching in the grandstand gave fair-goers the opportunity to sit down for a few minutes or enjoy one of the traditions of the fair. Other grandstand events included performances by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and Eddie Rabbit, the demolition derby, and horse, truck, and tractor pulls.

to a close. Six college students participated in eight-week paid internships. They worked closely with nonprofits in the county and collaborated in professional development training. Three interns were from Woodstock: Taylor Spanbauer interned at Options and Advocacy; Colin Stoll, Family Health Partnership Clinic; and Jade Bellairs, Hearthstone Communities.

1 year ago – 2023

■ At the opening of the 75th anniversary of the McHenry County Fair, legendary broadcaster Orion Samuelson was honored with Building D at the fairgrounds getting the honorary name the Orion Samuelson Meeting Hall. Longtime fair volunteer Charles Beard was recognized with a fairgrounds street being renamed Charles Beard Way.

■ Woodstock Police purchased two outside drones for police work, such as search and rescue, investigation at vehicle crashes sites and active crime scenes, and observation at public gatherings. One indoor drone was also purchased to safely assess potential dangers inside a building, such as explosives, hazardous materials, or barricaded suspect.

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY DENNIS MATHES

HARVARD MAIN LINE —

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on JULY 19, 2024 An Assumed Name Business Certificate was filed in the Office of the County Clerk in McHenry County, IL under the following business name and address, and setting forth the names and addresses of all persons owning, conducting and transacting business known as MAXINES ESTATE SALES located at 7306 DELAWARE RD. WONDER LAKE, IL 60097. Owner

Name & Address: MARILYN GAZIKAS 7306 DELAWARE RD. WONDER LAKE, IL 60097.

Dated: JULY 19, 2024

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

(Published in The Woodstock Independent July 31, 2024, August 7, 2024, August 14, 2024)L11822

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT

MCHENRY COUNTY

PUBLICATION NOTICE OF COURT

DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE (ADULT)

Request of JAYNE CHRISTINE STRANG

Case No. 2024MR000129

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

JAYNE CHRISTINE STRANG

To the new name of: CHASE MICHAEL STRANG

The court date will be held on January 4, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. at 2200 N. Seminary Ave. Woodstock, McHenry County in Courtroom 204.

Dated at Woodstock, IL July 23, 2024 /s/ Jayne Christine Strang

(Published in The Woodstock Independent July 31, 2024, August 7, 2024, August 14, 2024)L11823

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTY-SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT MCHENRY COUNTY, ILLINOIS-IN PROBATE Case No. 2024PR000212

In the Matter of the Estate of KATHLEEN K. FREUND

Deceased

CLAIM NOTICE

Notice is given of the death of KATHLEEN K. FREUND

Of: CRYSTAL LAKE, IL

Letters of office were issued on: 7/11/2024

To Representative: RHONDA DITZEL 1028 GUNDERSON OAK PARK, IL 60304

CHRISTINE THORNTON 629 ORIOLE LANE MT. PROSPECT, IL 60056 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 July 31, 2024, August 7, 2024, August 14, 2024)L11824

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on JULY 24, 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 LOLA’S BOUTIQUE

located at 25 N. AYER HARVARD, IL 60033. Owner Name & Address: MARICELA ADAN 25 N. AYER HARVARD, IL 60033.

Dated: JULY 24, 2024

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

(Published in The Woodstock Independent July 31, 2024, August 7, 2024, August 14, 2024)L11825

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on JULY 26, 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 BLOOMING STITCH CO. located at 326 S. HUBBARD ST. ALGONQUIN, IL 60102. Owner Name & Address: KATHLEEN HARRIS 326 S. HUBBARD ST. ALGONQUIN, IL 60102.

Dated: JULY 26, 2024

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

(Published in The Woodstock Independent August 7, 2024, August 14, 2024)L11827

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on JULY 29, 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 BERNAL LANDSCAPING located at 1645 CLAY COURT WOODSTOCK, IL 60098, Owner Name & Address: ERIC BERNAL 1645 CLAY COURT WOODSTOCK, IL 60098.

Dated: JULY 29, 2024

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

(Published in The Woodstock Independent August 7, 2024, August 14, 2024)L11829

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on AUGUST 5, 2024 An Assumed Name Business Certificate was filed in the Office of the County Clerk in McHenry County, IL under the following business name and address, and setting forth the names and addresses of all persons owning, conducting and transacting business known as FOTO Y VIDEO PREMIUM4K located at 461

W. VIRGINIA ST. CRYSTAL LAKE, IL 60014. Owner Name & Address: VICTOR MARTINEZ 4 PERSHING AVE. LAKE IN THE HILLS, IL 60156 and ELIZABETH ORTIZ 744 LEAH LN. APT. 2 WOODSTOCK, IL 60098.

Dated: AUGUST 5, 2024

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

(Published in The Woodstock Independent August 14, 2024)L11831

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME

Public Notice is hereby given that on AUGUST 6, 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 J L JONES INSURANCE & RETIREMENT located at 11503 MAIN ST,. HUNTLEY, IL 60142. Owner Name & Address: JOANN L. JONES 11503 MAIN ST., PO BOX 956 HUNTLEY, IL. 60142

Dated: AUGUST 6, 2024

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

(Published in The Woodstock Independent August 14, 2024)L11832

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that Nominating Petitions for the February 25, 2025 Consolidated Primary Election and/or the April 1, 2025 Consolidated Election are available at Woodstock City Hall in the Office of the City Manager, 121 W. Calhoun Street, Woodstock, IL,

between the hours of 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday thru Friday, and at the Reception desk at City Hall between the hours of 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM on Tuesday. You do have the option of having an election packet emailed to you. If interested, please email Jane Howie or call the office to request an emailed copy.

Nominating Petitions may be filed in the Office of the City Manager between the hours of 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM, on Monday, October 21, 2024 through Friday, October 25, 2024 and on Monday, October 28, 2024 between the hours of 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Nomination papers may also be mailed but may not arrive prior to 8:30 AM on Monday, October 21, 2024 or after 5:00 PM on Monday, October 28, 2024.

Questions should be directed to the City Clerk in the Office of the City Manager at 815-338-4302.

Petitions will be accepted for the following offices:

Mayor (1)

City Council Member (3) (Published in The Woodstock Independent August 14, 2024)L11833

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 1345 S. Shore Dr. Village of Lakewood, IL 60014.

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

(Published in The Woodstock Independent August 14, 2024)L11834

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

ACCOUNTING

ALLOCATION ASSETS BALANCE BOND CAPITAL CASHFLOW COST EARNINGS ECONOMICS EMPLOYEE ENTREPRENEUR EQUITY EXPENSE FINANCE INPUT

Pet Week of the

SAVING JUST ONE PET WON’T CHANGE THE WORLD BUT, SURELY, THE WORLD WILL CHANGE FOR THAT ONE PET.

“Pippa”

Nine-month-old hound mix

Pippa was saved by Animal Rescue Corps in Tennessee, then transported to Helping Paws where she has been for 24 days. She has been microchipped, vaccinated, and spayed. Weighing about 35 pounds, she enjoys walks, climbing on the agility equipment, and splashing around in the little doggy pool. She is great with other dogs and gives great hugs. When meeting kids she can be a little shy at first, but warms up. Pippa is still working on her “potty outside” skills, as well as leash manners. If you are looking for a sweetie-pie who is always down to cuddle and to go on new adventures with you, Pippa could be your girl. Come in to Helping Paws and meet her.

To see this pet or others or to volunteer to help walk dogs, call the shelter at:

815-338-4400

M/F/SA/SU 12 - 4 PM W 12 - 7PM by appointment only

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

PICTURE THIS

The McHenry County Historical Society presents “The Correspondence of Harley Wayne” on Saturday, August 24, at 6422 Main St. in Union. This program will be presented by author and MCHS Board member Bob Frenz as he takes you through his first “meeting” as a young college student with Union, Illinois’, most notable resident, and how this interest blossomed into finding Harley Wayne’s beautiful home and the then-current owners Constance and Leo Parenti. He will recount how he spent a couple of lovely afternoons with the Parentis, learning about the house and the man who built it in 1858. This house still stands in Union today. Now, over a half-century later, Bob Frenz is still fascinated by a man who, at age 20, left his parents to embark on a harrowing journey to Illinois and then, at age 38, left his wife and child to begin an even more perilous campaign to help save the Union. The cost is $10 for the public and $5 for members. Register for the program at gothistory.org.

Woodstock High School marching band in 1961 is pictured.

Don Peasley Photo Collection, McHenry County Historical Society

Sports

NN SCOREBOARD NN

Fun builds family

If you are on a youth or adult fall league, designate someone to send your scores in each week, and share your season with the readers of The Woodstock Independent.

High school sports teams can also ensure that their scores are listed each week by sending results to sports@thewoodstockindependent.com

Woodstock Thunder Youth Football and Cheer preps for fall season

By Jen Nichols NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

During the past two weeks more than 320 youth athletes have been preparing to compete in youth flag football, tackle football, and cheerleading. The Woodstock Thunder Youth Football and Cheer program has officially begun.

On Aug. 9 the athletes, coaches, and their families got together for the annual season kickoff tailgate celebration. The gathering included games, raffle baskets, music, and food.

“This is more than just a sport, it is a family,” said WTYFC president Amy Gannon.

She enjoys these social gatherings as an opportunity to build family between players and coaches .

WTYFC not only focuses on the development of the youth athletes,

but they also focus on connections with the community of Woodstock as a whole.

For example, parents, coaches, and the staff volunteered time at the McHenry County Fair. Additional volunteers will be helping the Hot August Night Car Show on Aug. 17.

Teaching first

“Our program is more than just winning games,” Gannon said. “It is about teaching the kids discipline, teamwork skills.”

“The main focus for each player is to grow as an athlete and as an individual,” she said.

Each practice is two hours long and players develop skills and relationships at the same time.

Check ‘em out

The season opener will be Sunday, Sept. 1, at the Thunder’s home field,

Emricson Park.

Home games are fun to attend, with concessions, apparel to purchase, a food truck, and raffle baskets to support the WTYFC teams. The game schedules can be found on the WTYFC website, www.woodstockyouthfootball.com, or on their Facebook page www.facebook.com/ woodstockyouthfootball.

COURTESY PHOTO

Thunder Youth Football featherweight PAC coach Dominick Lucchetti (center) helps families during the annual kick off tailgate party at Emricson Park.