Woodstock Independent 4/22/2020

The

Woodstock

I NDEPENDENT

April 22-28, 2020

Published every Wednesday | Est. 1987 | Serving Woodstock, Wonder Lake and Bull Valley, Ill. | www.thewoodstockindependent.com | $1.00

Community rallies to help

Sheltered Village loses seven residents, staff member in pandemic

By Larry Lough

LARRY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

As a Woodstock home for developmentally disabled adults was reeling from the deaths of seven residents and a staff member, the people of Woodstock stepped forward to help.

“The support from our community

MARKETPLACE

Building on Square to house offices, Thoughtfulness Shop PAGE 13

SCHOOLS

has been outstanding and so uplifting,” said Lauren Schlendorf, business manager of Sheltered Village, in an email Friday. “I can’t even begin to explain how a simple meal brightens the days of our staff and residents. Today we were able to give each resident a lunch from McDonalds. They were so excited.”

On Monday, Schlendorf confirmed that seven residents and a staff member had died after being diagnosed with COVID-19.

One resident was in hospice care before dying at the facility, Schlendorf reported. That resident later was confirmed to have had the coronavirus.

See VILLAGE, Page 2

DISTANCE EVENT

Challenger Center challenged by order closing all schools PAGE 8

A&E

Choral Festival cancellation can’t silence student voices

PAGE 10

INDEX Obituaries

5

Opinion

6

Schools

8

A&E

10

Marketplace

13

Community

15

Calendar

18

Classified

20

Puzzles

22

Public Notices

23

Sports

24

The Woodstock Independent

671 E. Calhoun St., Woodstock, IL 60098 Phone: 815-338-8040 Fax: 815-338-8177 Thewoodstock independent.com

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER

Shoppers at Walmart in Woodstock comply with the store’s social distancing policy at the entrance, where employees monitor the flow of customers.

Revenue uncertain for city budget

By Larry Lough

LARRY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Income and spending will jump about 25 percent in the 2020-21 Woodstock city budget – both inflated by the $9 million in major street improvements being made this year.

The City Council was expected Tuesday night to pass the budget of about

$48 million for the fiscal year that begins May 1.

In a budget workshop April 10, city officials struggled with the uncertainties caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Without knowing how much tax revenues will be hurt, council members picked through proposed expenditures for items to cut.

Being a “home rule” city, Woodstock

has some flexibility to finance operations, especially with revenue from the 1 percent sales tax that council members approved in the fall of 2017, City Manager Roscoe Stelford said.

State and local fuel taxes are expected to be lower than the projection of $1.365 million, along with state funds from other sources such as

See BUDGET, Page 3

NEWS

April 22-28, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

2

D-200 was ready for end of in-person learning

By Larry Lough

LARRY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Public and private schools in Illinois are out for the year, and Woodstock School District 200 says it’s ready.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Friday that schools in Illinois would not return for in-person learning this academic year and that remote learning would continue for all pre-K through 12th-grade students.

Officials of District 200 were not surprised by the announcement, which for schools negated the governor’s tentative date of April 30 for lifting his “shelter in place” order.

“We certainly anticipated this decision as a possibility,” Superintendent

Mike Moan said in a statement, “and are prepared to continue our eLearning programming, meal services and social/emotional support for our students for the remainder of the school year.”

The governor’s announcement came the same day the Illinois Department of Public Health announced 1,842 new cases of novel coronavirus disease, or COVID-19, in Illinois. The new cases were the most in a single day in the state – until it was matched Saturday.

“I’ve said time and time again, our decisions must follow the science,,” Pritzker said, “and the science says our students can’t go back to their normal routine this school year.”

Moan said the district and the

community would handle the setback.

“We appreciate that this is a difficult time for our students, for our staff and for our families,” his statement said, “but we also appreciate having a very strong community that has supported each other. We anticipate that as a community we will continue to do so.”

Moan recently notified seniors that the governor’s “stay at home” order until May 1 meant events scheduled for April – Senior Honors Assembly, Senior Honors Banquet, and prom – would be postponed.

“We will work to provide these experiences or experiences like these to celebrate your successes in District 200,” his message said. “In addition to finding different dates for these events, the

VILLAGE

‘Urgent call’ for help

The privately owned facility at 600 Borden St. last week put out an “urgent call” for help with nursing staff, gowns, and oxygen concentrators as the nursing home battled an outbreak of COVID-19 among the home’s current 89 residents. Both men and women in their 20s to 90s live at Sheltered Village.

At one point last week, nearly 50 of the 115 staff members were off work.

“We have received a few phone calls from nurses in the community that are willing to come in and help,” Schlendorf’s Friday email said. “We are in the process of getting the required information from them, and we will start them as soon as we are able.

“As for PPE, we have had a lot of people ask and have had a few donations of PPE. We are still in need of N95 masks and more gowns.”

Lindsey Salvatelli, public information officer for the Department of

Capitol News Illinois contributed to this report. and guardians of the residents.

“The staff and residents of Sheltered Village express their gratitude for the generosity of the community in donating N-95 and home-made masks as well as the donations of food for staff members,” the release said. “A donation from Northwestern Medicine, arranged through outreach to city of Woodstock Mayor Brian Sager, will provide much-needed gowns. The need for additional staffing is greatly felt. ...”

The release asked anyone able to provide RN or CNA services to call Schlendorf at 815-338-6440, ext. 111.

Continued from Page 1

Twenty-two Sheltered Village residents and 17 staff members had tested positive for the illness as of Monday after the first case was positively identified April 1. The 96-bed residential facility has been on lockdown since March 17.

“We are still doing our best to keep morale up” Schlendorf wrote in an email Monday, “and are very proud of our hardworking staff who come back to work day in and day out to care for our beloved residents.”

The local Department of Health reported Sunday that McHenry County’s death toll from the coronavirus was 16, nine more than a week ago, with 348 confirmed cases, up by 114.

events themselves may look different or be held at different locations.”

Graduation ceremonies are tentatively scheduled the weekend of May 16-17.

“As we get closer to this date, we will work within all safety guidelines for large gatherings to make a decision on the graduation,” Moan wrote. “We are committed to a ceremony your parents or guardians can watch, allowing you to receive a diploma and wear a cap and gown on a stage. If the situation calls for ceremonies at a later date or in a different manner, we will work to find a way to make that happen.”

‘Guarded optimism’

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY LARRY LOUGH

Sheltered Village, 600 Borden St., needs additional nursing help after a COVID-19 outbreak at the residential home for developmentally disabled adults. Dozens of residents and staff members have been diagnosed with the virus or have shown symptoms.

Health, said officials were monitoring the situation at Sheltered Village.

“We are in touch with them,” she said, “helping them implement mitigation strategies ... and with [personal protection equipment].”

Nationally, up to 20 percent of deaths from COVID-19 involve residents of nursing homes.

“We also would like to thank the community for their enormous generosity,” Schlendorf’s Monday email said.

“It is wonderful to see so many people come together to help those that are in need. ... We have received PPE, donations of food for our staff as well as activities, puzzles, books, and magazines to keep our residents stimulated and entertained while in their rooms.

We are very grateful.”

An April 14 news release from the facility said that when the residential

home went on lockdown March 17, only essential employees were allowed into the building and only after an assessment to ensure they were symptom- and fever-free.

“Sheltered Village has been working closely with the McHenry County Department of Health to attempt to limit further spread of the virus,” the news release said. “Staff continues to be assessed for symptoms twice each day, and the building is in continuous process of being disinfected.”

Schlendorf said the public should know how easily the virus could impact a living environment, “regardless of safety precautions in place.”

“The safety of our residents and staff is the primary concern and focus of Sheltered Village,” said Schlendorf, who reported the staff maintained weekly or daily contact with families

Illinois matched its deadliest day of the pandemic on Saturday as the state Department of Public Health reported 125 deaths from COVID-19 in the previous 24 hours, the same as Thursday.

Statewide, more than 143,000 tests had been completed as of Sunday, including more than 7,000 some days. Gov. J.B. Pritzker has set a goal of 10,000 completed tests per day to get the most accurate picture the spread.

“With more access to testing, we will learn of many more positive cases,” IDPH Director Ngozi Ezike said at Saturday’s daily coronavirus briefing in Chicago, the state’s 41st consecutive such news conference.

“Although our numbers continue to climb, it is with some guarded optimism that we say that the growth is slowing,” Ezike said, adding that people “must continue to ... hold the line” when it comes to social distancing.

Pritzker said again Sunday he had yet to decide whether to lift or extend the state’s stay-at-home order when it expires at the end April.

Capitol News Illinois contributed to this report.

Continued from Page 1

income taxes, auto registration, and cannabis taxes. That revenue is budgeted at $6.78 million.

But adjustments can’t be made, Stelford said, “until we know what the level of reductions are.”

Looking for cuts

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY LARRY LOUGH

Among projects to be funded in the 2020-21 city budget is continued remodeling of the 19th century Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House for civic and commercial development.

Christensen cautioned the council.

“We can’t stop it or slow it down.”

Another project getting the go-ahead is about $340,000 toward remodeling costs for the Old Courthouse for civic and commercial use. That project was scheduled to be discussed apart from the budget at Tuesday’s council meeting.

Three businesses and the Woodstock Public Library have submitted proposals to make new use of space in the Old Courthouse and Sheriff’s House, a project for which the city already has

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NEWS

Courthouse moving ahead

spent about $3.5 million to shore up the mid-19th century buildings for further development.

“We’re trying to still accommodate those businesses,” Stelford said during the budget meeting. “We’re not going to abruptly end it. ... It’s a wait and see.”

But Deputy Mayor Mike Turner noted that the two local businesses that submitted proposals, the Public House restaurant and Ethereal Confections, have been hurt financially by the governor’s order that has limited restaurant business to carryout and pickup sales in an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

3

April 22-28, 2020

Among likely expense cuts from the budget proposal that the council reviewed earlier are $160,000 for an outdoor performance stage at Emricson Park, a new $70,000 position of assistant to the city manager, and capital expenses for park projects, the city’s fleet of vehicles, and some water main and sewer replacement and repair.

Capital projects likely to remain are $175,000 for engineering work on the state’s Route 47 improvement project and $585,000 for construction of a traffic roundabout at the five-way intersection of Lake Avenue with South and Madison streets.

Some council member questioned the spending for the roundabout when other items would be cut from the budget. But city Finance Director Paul Christensen said eliminating that expense would jeopardize about $1.5 million in grant money for the project.

“There are grant funds attached,”

“I’m not sure that’s a solid assumption,” Turner said of the plan to move ahead with those businesses’ proposals. “I’m surprised everything is business as usual in this proposal.”

That might not be a problem, Christensen said, because the project is moving “at a glacial pace,” with occupancy of the new spaces not expected before May 2022.

Councilman Jim Prindiville said things could be expected to change after the health crisis passes.

“I think we might be coming out of this in a whole different world,” he said.

“I’m taking a real skeptical approach to everything.”

Councilman Gordie Tebo said the direction should be determined by the businesses that made proposals for use of the historic structures.

“We have to let the businesses tell us they can’t do this,” he said, urging the city to move ahead “until we’re told otherwise.”

Councilman Darrin Flynn said the city should continue its plan, based on what he had heard from economic forecasters who believe small, independent businesses “will come out of this stronger” as the crisis is creating loyalty to small, local establishments.

“By continuing down this path,” he said of the Old Courthouse project, “we’re setting ... ourselves up for success.”

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

BUDGET

NEWS

April 22-28, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

4

Woodstock braces for ‘very boring summer’

By Larry Lough

at the park with Gavers Barndance, which last year celebrated the 20th anniversary of the fundraiser for the Gavers Cancer Foundation. The news release said the Gavers board had determined not to have the outdoor social event this summer.

Although the Opera House had planned to resume shows May 8, events for that month have been canceled and options are being evaluated for beyond next month. Some recently canceled shows at the Opera House had been rescheduled, starting with Theatre 121’s “Murder on the Orient Express,” which is scheduled to begin a run of nine performances starting June 12.

Among other cancellations from organizers are the Girls on the Run 5K and the March of Dimes “March for Babies.”

LARRY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Summer in Woodstock will be different this year.

For starters, the city won’t need all of that $125,000 that has been budgeted for events such as Fair Diddley and Summer in the Park.

City officials announced last week that uncertainty about the statewide “shelter in place” order – as well as concern about the spread of the coronavirus – would cancel several annual events in Woodstock this year.

“It’s going to be a very boring summer,” one person commented on The Independent’s Facebook page after reading the news.

During a budget workshop of the City Council on April 10, Mayor Brian Sager acknowledged that event planning was “up in the air” until Gov. J.B. Pritzker offered guidance on his “stay home” directive that was put in place until April 30.

“We don’t know what we will be able to move forward with,” the mayor said, “and what we can’t move forward with.”

Less than a week later, city officials decided to take the safe route.

“It is extremely disappointing to have these wonderful community events, enjoyed by residents and visitors alike, canceled for this year,” Sager said in a news release. “While we appreciate the undeniable benefits they offer, the health and well-being of our community and region must be our highest priority.

Awaiting word from governor

INDEPENDENT FILE PHOTO BY KEN FARVER

A young winner picks her prize after playing a game at Summer in the Park in 2019. After six years of family-focused entertainment on the Square and Emricson Park, the five-day event is canceled for 2020.

“Those of us faced with making such difficult decisions cannot, in good conscience, encourage the high level of social engagement and interaction integral to such events during these challenging, uncertain times.”

No Barndance in 2020

Among the canceled activities are the five-day Summer in the Park, for which the budget earmarked $40,000, and the Fair Diddley arts and crafts event,

which brings up to 10,000 visitors to the Square each May. The city provides only $500 for that event, which is sponsored by the Mental Health Resource League of McHenry County.

For the past six years, Summer in the Park has been a family-oriented celebration of summer in mid-July. Activities on the Square and at Emricson Park included rides, games, music, and food at no charge to participants.

That event shared the “big top tent”

City officials said that while it wasn’t known whether the governor would extend his “stay at home” order past April 30, “initial discussions” indicated the state would ease back in to social interaction to avoid reintroduction of the COVID-19 virus.

“We hope to have clear direction from the governor in the weeks ahead that will offer some security for reopening the Opera House, library and Recreation Center,” City Manager Roscoe Stelford said in the news release. “We know our residents are eager to once again enjoy our tremendous community activities, but not at the risk of jeopardizing their safety.”

PUBLIC SAFETY LOG Woodstock Police Department

■ London S. Harris, 28, transient, was arrested April 1 in the 200 block of North Madison Street on charges of possession of cannabis, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of cannabis in a vehicle (passenger).

Jail refused to house him, released on I-bond and notice to appear. Court date May 14.

■ Kristofer R. McMullen, 40, transient, was arrested April 2 in the 900 block of Lake Avenue and a DeKalb County warrant charging two counts of failure to appear. Held on $10,000 bond.

Court date to be set.

■ Jonathaan M. Franzen, 22, transient, was arrested April 8 in the 1200 block of Lake Avenue on a charge of criminal trespass to property. Released on personal recognizance and notice to appear. Court date June 4.

■ Matthew W. Laforce, 41, Marengo, was arrested April 11 in the 3700 block

of Doty Road on a charge of battery.

Released on $100 bond. Court date May 21.

■ Terry Collins, 29, Chicago Heights, was arrested April 12 on charges of criminal trespass to property and resisting a peace officer. Released on personal recognizance and notice to appear. Court date May 21.

■ Karina C. Defrank, 30, Woodstock, was arrested April 13 in the 100 block of West Melody Lane on two counts of domestic battery and a Rockford warrant for failure to appear. Bond and court date to be set.

■ Arnie A. Blass, 26, Woodstock, was arrested April 13 in the 700 block of St. John’s Road on a McHenry County warrant charging failure to appear.

Released with notice to appear. Court date May 7.

■ Robert M. Cabellero, 19, Woodstock, was arrested April 16 in the 300 block of Leah Lane on four counts of

domestic battery and charges of aggravated battery to a peace officer and resisting a peace officer. Bond and court date to be set.

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

Woodstock Fire/Rescue District EMS calls for April 9-16: 63 Fire Runs April 9

10:14 a.m. – 1300 block of North State Street, Marengo, cover assignment/ standby; engine 5:37 p.m. – 1000 block of Wicker Street, lockout; truck April 10

5:54 a.m. – 100 block of South Eastwood Drive, malfunctioning alarm system

sounded; truck

April 11

8:38 a.m. – 300 block of Hughes Road, unintentional smoke detector activation, no fire; shift commander, engine, truck, tender April 12

12:44 p.m. – 300 block of Tanger Drive, smoke scare/odor of smoke; engine April 13

4 p.m. – Lake Shore Drive and U.S. 14, traffic accident with no injuries; ambulance, shift commander, engine 8:59 p.m. – 10400 block of Cindy Jo Avenue, Huntley, assist police or other agency; engine April 15

3:42 a.m. – 1700 block of South Eastwood Drive, unintentional smoke detector activation, no fire; shift commander, engine, ambulance, truck 6:38 a.m. – 8500 block of West Route 120, traffic accident with no injuries; ambulance, engine, shift commander

Improvements on Route 120 planned to begin this week Motorists have been warned of possible delays in the coming months as improvements to Route 120 east of Route 47 were scheduled to begin this week, weather permitting.

Curran Contracting Co. of Crystal Lake received the contract from the Illinois Department of Transportation to resurface the highway east to Martin Road, plus make improvements to comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act and mill rumble strips. The work is scheduled to be finished by Oct. 31.

IDOT urged drivers to pay close attention to flaggers and signs in the work zones, obey posted speed limits, and be on the alert for workers and equipment.

A 90-day waiver of late fees and interest on the first installment of this year’s property tax bills in McHenry County was on the agenda to be considered Tuesday night by the County Board.

The virtual meeting, with members attending remotely to adhere to physical distancing recommendations, was expected to consider the change in

tax deadlines to help people who are struggling financially because of the

Two local grants coming from federal CARES Act

More than $3 million in emergency coronavirus funding from the federal government will make its way to McHenry County under the CARES Act – Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security.

U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood, whose 14th District includes the county, announced two local grants. n $830,790 was awarded to McHenry County government in a Community Development Block Grant as part of $12.2 million in CARES funds to support

Police, health officials spar over COVID-19 info release

A McHenry County judge has been asked to rescind his order that the county Department of Health give first responders the names and addresses of people who test positive for COVID-19.

Judge Michael Chmiel issued a temporary restraining order to prevent local health officials from withholding the information on coronavirus patients.

County State’s Attorney Patrick Kenneally filed the lawsuit on behalf of the McHenry County sheriff. The Woodstock Police Department was among local police forces that joined the action.

The health department and county Board of Health asked Chmiel to dissolve his order, arguing for “protection of the private healthcare records of the citizens of McHenry County.”

PICTURE THIS

Ward Week at Montgomery Ward department store in 1956 is pictured. The Montgomery Ward building was located where the Woodstock Square Mall is today.

All of the McHenry County Historical Society programs have been canceled until further notice.

Don Peasley Photo Collection, McHenry County Historical Society

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5

NEWS

County Board will vote on delay of June property tax

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER

Allison Neff Brown and George Kazlusky arrive at Woodstock Fire/Rescue District Station No. 3 as part of the Dickens Carolers, who normally perform at Christmas but made a tour in north Woodstock on Sunday.

They started at Merryman Park before walking through the Sonatas housing addition to entertain homebound residents for an hour.

a range of local programs and services affected by COVID-19, including assistance for people to quickly regain stability in permanent housing after experiencing homelessness during this crisis. n $2.25 million will go to McHenry County College as part of CARES Act’s $14 billion in emergency higher education relief to help students and institutions.

At least half of the funds are intended for distribution to students as emergency cash assistance grants to help pay for housing, food, and other essentials.

April 22-28, 2020

coronavirus pandemic.

The 7 p.m. meeting was to be streamed live on the county Meeting Portal, which can be found on the county website at mchenrycountyil.gov.

People who wish to offer a comment during the meeting may email it to PublicComment@mchenrycountyil.gov no later than 5 p.m. the day of the meeting.

Commenters are asked to include their name and address in the email for the record.

McHenry County has set up a resource page at mchenrycountyil.gov/covid19resources for community members, businesses, and nonprofits needing assistance as a result of the pandemic. To learn more about personal protection, visit the Department of Health’s website at mcdh.info.

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

IN BRIEF

OPINION

April 22-28, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

6

Opinion

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

Cheryl Wormley Publisher, Co-Owner

Paul Wormley Co-Owner

Woodstock, IL • 1987

THE EDITORIAL BOARD

Cheryl Wormley Larry Lough Sandy Kucharski Ken Farver

Celebrating Earth Day as world goes crazy

Being homebound by concerns about COVID19 is no excuse not to observe – celebrate! – the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. Regular readers of The Independent should have seen the suggestions offered in last week’s edition by Cynthia Kanner, executive director of the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County.

Cynthia writes a monthly column about the aims and activities of her organization, which has an office and bookstore on the Woodstock Square.

Also last week, the Defenders helped The Independent to publish a full-page outline of planet Earth, ready to be colored in by your favorite artist and hung in a front window for Earth Day, Wednesday, April 22. But you can leave it up throughout April, which is Earth Month.

Or longer. As they say, every day is Earth Day. Without leaving home, you might also join a nationwide virtual Earth Day event with members of the McHenry County chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby from noon to 3 p.m. this coming Saturday. “Uniting from Home: A virtual CCL event with Katharine Hayhoe” will be broadcast via Zoom for your computer.

Hayhoe is a world-renowned climate scientist and creator of the PBS program “Global Weirding.” See details on Page 16.

Of course, planting a tree is always a good idea.

Planting two is even better.

The Land Conservancy of McHenry County might suggest an oak. The conservancy has launched the 5,000 Acre Challenge to protect the region’s oak woods, of which there are nearly 3,800 acres in our county. Visit 5000Acres.com to learn how to remove damaging invasive species from your woods and care for your oak trees. You can even register your oak acreage – “oakerage” – on the site, or learn how to plant an oak.

Hey, you two!

Remember: Solar distancing!

EDITORIAL CARTOON BY LUKE GOINS

If you’re looking to plant on a smaller scale with big results, visit saveourmonarchs.org to order Earth Day seed packs to plant milkweed to help in preserving our monarch butterflies. It can be a great family activity to mark the observance of Earth Month.

As a simple gesture for the occasion, wash your reusable shopping bags to get ready for May 1. That’s when Woodstock is scheduled to reinstitute its 10-cent fee on single-use plastic and paper bags as way to fight plastic pollution in our community.

» YOUR VIEW

Let’s all cooperate to combat climate change Despite our current dire circumstances, I felt a strange flash of hope today. After hours of creating eLearning lessons for my homebound students, I hurried outside to enjoy the warm, sunny day on my bike. I was amazed by how many others were also taking solace in the simplicity of nature and how much they all seemed to want some human connection, albeit at a distance. I have never had so many people wave, shout hello, and simply smile at me during a ride.

It seems like we are all craving this simple connection with

our fellows more than ever, even as we stay at home in isolation to try to slow down the coronavirus.

I started to wonder: If we can pull together to make it through this crisis, can we also pull together to tackle the next looming threat of climate change? Can we remember how many have suffered and sacrificed this time and take action to avoid the similarly dire consequences of ignoring that danger to our world?

That precious and fragile world that we must join together to protect? I so hope that we can.

Karen Campbell Bolingbrook

Our city became the first in McHenry County – and only the fourth in Illinois – to enact such a fee as an environmentally friendly policy. Despite largely unfounded fears, reusable bags are not considered to be a hazard for carrying the coronavirus, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

But wash them anyway. They’re important to cleaning the community of unsightly, unhealthy plastic bags that litter the landscape.

Happy Earth Day.

Institute real change to fight cause of COVID-19 “We the people” has never been more relevant than now, as the federal government is again too busy bickering over what to do, ignoring experts, appointing “yes” men and women, and essentially laying the blame game and taking no responsibility.

Meanwhile, we the people are going to the beach, attending church services, and making runs to the local fast food restaurant to take advantage of a free frosty.

A vaccine is at least a year away, and there is no indication that

COVID-19 will be eradicated by then; in fact, experts are predicting that a second wave is highly likely if all people don’t institute real change.

During the pandemic of 1918, the world population was 2 billion, and over 50 million died, the majority of the deaths coming with a resurgence of the influenza in the fall.

Today’s population is nearly four times what it was then. The density was less than 17 people per square kilometer then, and today it is 52 per. Not only is social distancing necessary, but staying at home should be, other than a walk around the block.

Continued on Next page

The response wasn’t as overwhelming as last week’s posts by our high school seniors, but it was impressive. I truly enjoyed the photos and seeing who posted. Thank you, all!

Now, I’m wondering what social media event we can come up with next Friday? We’re accepting ideas.

Remember, April 22 is the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. I hope you took the opportunity to color the drawing of the Earth that was published in last week’s Independent, sponsored by the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County. There’s still time to color and post it in one of your front windows.

One final thought: April 23 marks the 33rd anniversary of the first edition of The Woodstock Independent.

Through the years, hundreds of people – from high school students to octogenarians – have dedicated their talents and energy as staff members. Each has embraced The Independent’s mission of being the community’s source of news, information, and advertising, always with the goal of being one of the very best weekly newspapers in Illinois.

Thousands of people have subscribed – some for all 33 years. And, hundreds of businesses have advertised.

The Independent continues today because of each one of you. Thank you, everyone!

Cheryl Wormley is publisher of The Woodstock Independent. Her email address is c.wormley@thewoodstockindependent.com

Subscription rates/year $45 in Woodstock, Bull Valley and Wonder Lake. $47 in McHenry County. $52 for snowbirds and $60 outside McHenry County.

Corrections

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

Staff

Cheryl Wormley

PUBLISHER

c.wormley@thewoodstockindependent.com

EDITOR

Larry Lough

larry@thewoodstockindependent.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Sandy Kucharski

sandy@thewoodstockindependent.com

Ken Farver

PHOTOGRAPHER

ken@thewoodstockindependent.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Dianne Mitchell

dianne@thewoodstockindependent.com

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Jen Wilson

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ADVERTISING

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ADMINISTRATION/SUBSCRIPTIONS

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COLUMNISTS

Paul Lockwood, Lisa Haderlein, Dan Chamness, Patricia Kraft, Jeff Cook PHOTOGRAPHERS

Alex Vucha, Vicky Long, Margie Paffrath CORRESPONDENTS

Tricia Carzoli, Janet Dovidio, Susan W. Murray, Megan Ivers, Lydia LaGue, Brittany Keeperman EDITORIAL CARTOONISTS

Jim Mansfield, Luke Goins Continued from Previous page

Worrying about when sports will return, unemployment, or the economy will matter little if the virus is still a threat. As in most cases, take care of the root cause and the problem is solved.

I applaud local leaders here in Illinois and elsewhere fighting the fight. I would hope others would follow so that our first responders have a chance in saving lives.

Please stay healthy for you, your family, and neighbors.

David DeGreef Woodstock

Next U.S. stimulus bill should aid the vulnerable I know first-hand how challenging it can be to confront Alzheimer’s/dementia. My father, John Ziemba, was diagnosed in 2010 with

Alzheimer’s, then re-diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in 2016; we as a family tirelessly cared for Dad until his passing in May of 2019.

Now millions of people across the nation, including nearly 1 million Illinoisans, are facing this challenge with the added strain of the COVID-19 pandemic. In these difficult times, I am asking Congresswoman Lauren Underwood to take action through the next legislative stimulus package to include important measures to support this vulnerable population.

First, the Promoting Alzheimer’s Awareness to Prevent Elder Abuse Act would assist Department of Justice professionals who support victims of abuse who live with Alzheimer’s and other dementia in order to improve the quality of their interactions with this vulnerable population, and help protect them from elder abuse. Second,

the Improving HOPE for Alzheimer’s Act would increase the use of the care planning benefit available through Medicare in order to help more families. Finally, nonprofits like the Alzheimer’s Association continue to provide tremendous support to the communities they serve, despite facing economic hardships. Congress should establish an exclusive fund to support nonprofits with between 500 and 10,000 employees, including loan forgiveness, to ensure these organizations can continue to effectively serve the communities that depend on them.

Congresswoman Underwood, please support these three bipartisan measures in the next COVID-19 response legislation to provide critical support for at risk populations.

Natalie Ziemba Woodstock

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COVID-19. The plan is to run a full-page ad in next week’s paper listing them and encouraging the community to help by donating.

On Thursday, Cheryl the staff and I Wormley decided #woodDeclarations stock4all needed a web presence.

We’re still working out the details, because some things just don’t happen in a few days. Our goal is to have it filled with photos, announcements, and points of pride that will continue to bind our community together and put Woodstock is position to move forward when the coast is clear.

The information posted will come from all of you. We created an email address – woodstock4all@thewoodstockindependent.com – just for that purpose.

For starters, nonprofits can use that email to send information about their canceled fundraisers and where to send donations.

There’s more. On Friday morning, photographer Ken Farver and advertising manager Jen Wilson decided another social media burst would be fun. So Ken took a photo of a snow scene and posted it on Facebook and Instagram with an invitation for others to post their #snowfun, #indeonstaycation, #woodstock4all photos.

671 E. Calhoun St. • Woodstock, IL 60098 Phone: 815-338-8040 www.thewoodstockindependent.com

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April 22-28, 2020

You are reading this on Wednesday, or about then. I’m writing Friday morning, and I’m loving the soft, fluffy snow that covers the budding tree branches and the green grass in our backyard. I’m even OK with it capping the daffodils. Knowing it won’t last long makes it even more special.

Whether each new day has snow, sun, clouds, or rain, everyone seems to be adhering to COVID-19 mandates.

We’re practicing physical distancing, wearing masks, and staying at home unless heading out for something that is deemed essential – food, gasoline, medicine, caring for another person, or working in an essential business.

That’s good! It’s really good. But it’s not easy, and it’s getting old.

Newspapers are essential businesses, so The Independent staff is working as usual or a bit more – some in the office and some remotely.

The past two weeks, all have added #Woodstock4all to their regular assignments and responsibilities. It’s been fun. Our plan to cooperate with businesses, organizations, and individuals is beginning to grow. I thought it might catch fire more quickly than it has, but I’m known to be overly optimistic.

More has happened on the #woodstock4all front this past week. The Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry is partnering with The Independent to identify and publicize all nonprofits that canceled their spring fundraisers because of

Woodstock

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

Woodstock4all gains momentum

The

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April 22-28, 2020

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Challenger eagerly awaits next launch D-200 officials hoping to resume this summer

By Janet Dovidio

NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Woodstock’s Challenger Learning Center received national recognition when the science education program was featured in the December edition of EdTech magazine.

In addition to a lengthy story inside the publication, the cover featured a photo of Keely Krueger, assistant superintendent for early childhood and elementary education for Woodstock School District 200.

“The magazine learned about CLC through the company CDW,” Krueger said. “We had purchased some of our technology equipment for CLC from CDW.” EdTech magazine personnel came to Woodstock for a photo shoot and inperson interviews, then returned a few months later for a video shoot of Mary Endres students in action. Krueger and George Oslovich, D-200’s director of information services, led them on a tour especially through specific spaces.

“The interview team really liked the transport room where students sit in seats that rumble as they are ‘taking off,’” Krueger said. “They also enjoyed the Mars Transport Vehicle.”

Program interruptions

Because school buildings are closed during the COVID-19 pandemic and its length is uncertain, CLC faces many decisions. All missions have been canceled since March 13. The staff and

EDTECH/K-12 MAGAZINE

Woodstock’s Challenger Learning Center was the cover story for EdTech magazine in December. The cover featured this photo of Keely Krueger, assistant superintendent for early childhood and elementary education for Woodstock School District 200, inside the center at Olson Elementary School. volunteers are currently working with online professional development to prepare for “Lunar Quest,” the new simulated space mission for next year, as well as continuing to create cutting edge STEM opportunities.

“There are numerous learning opportunities happening at CLC every day,” Krueger said. “When students are here, they are collaborating with one another, problem-solving using virtual and augmented reality, as well as taking on engineering tasks that require design and innovation. I’m thrilled that we were able to share our center through the feature in EdTech magazine.”

CLC staff also continues to plan for

summer camps for June and July in the hopes they can take place.

But until in-school classes resume, missions and field trips won’t continue, Krueger said.

“We are anxiously awaiting the time when we can open our doors again to the excited and smiling faces and inspire the next group of students who visit Challenger Learning Center,” she added.

Challenger Learning Center opened on Church Street in Woodstock in 2000.

The first mission took off in September 2001. Since then, more than 150,000 students have visited the center.

The center began a relationship with

Aurora University in the spring of 2010.

CLC transferred its property and charter to Aurora University in the spring of 2015.

Aurora University transferred ownership of the CLC to District 200 in the summer of 2019 and moved CLC to its present location at Olson Elementary School. The first mission at that location took place in September 2019. This very first year at Olson was interrupted by the coronavirus pandemic.

To read the EdTech story on the Challenger Center, visit the magazine’s website, edtechmagazine.com/k12/ article/2019/12/creating-opportunitiesimmerse-students-learning.

Child care options limited these days State issues special licenses for care of children of people deemed to be essential workers

By Tricia Carzoli

NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

For weeks, most residents in Woodstock have remained at home under Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s stay-at-home order.

But many essential workers need child care.

Woodstock’s House of Children on Harding Road is one of only a handful of

care centers licensed to provide childcare for McHenry County’s essential workers.

“There aren’t that many facilities operating with this license,” said Shelly Rebman, House of Children’s site director. “There are over 300 child care facilities in McHenry County. There are maybe five open right now. That is a huge decrease [in providers].”

House of Children is licensed to care for 48 children of people who work in essential businesses.

“There are very strict rules in place,” Rebman explained. “We must have a lower [than normal] ratio of students to teachers. We screen every teacher and student each day, and we can only have 10 children per classroom.”

Before the stay-at-home order, the

staff and owners of House of Children were aware the lockdown was coming based on what they were hearing from parents.

“We already had parents asking us what would happen – we have essential worker families,” Rebman said. “So we talked about it, and our owners John and Debbie Louise fully supported this Continued on NEXT page

Musicians

of the Month

Kayla Apraku COURTESY PHOTO

Miss Judy, kindergarten teacher at House of Children who is also managing school-age children these days, and Miss Mayra help children with their distance learning.

Continued from PREVIOUS page

Checking temperatures

Before the stay-at-home order was issued, House of Children filed for a facility license from the Illinois Department of Child and Family Services Child Care so it could remain open as an Emergency Child Care Center.

According to the state website, in addition to submitting an application, child care centers wishing to remain open must provide a list of staff members who will be working at the center, a risk management plan, guidance and discipline policies, and a medication policy.

There are strict guidelines as to who can use the center. Only essential workers in jobs listed on the state website are eligible.

Children of essential workers working from home are not able to use the facilities. In a two-parent home, both parents must be essential workers who are employed outside of the home.

Adhering to mandatory protocol for the safety of both children and staff, children must have their temperatures taken each day. Staff members are checked for temperatures, and they must complete a self-assessment each time they come in.

Staff members do not mind.

“Our staff loves what they do,” Rebman said. “They care. I’ve been so impressed with our teachers – they are all so positive and uplifting. When we were contemplating what to do, they all said, ‘Of course we are staying open.’”

‘Strict guidlines’ apply

The facility recently was re-licensed by the state, so that helped to reduce the emergency licensing time.

And teaching, too

In addition to functioning as an emergency child care center, the school has its own classes to teach.

“Our pre-school and kindergarten teachers are still interacting with their students,” Kraus said. “They conduct virtual preschool and Zoom sessions.

“Our teachers are incredibly passionate and dedicated. I cannot thank them enough for providing a safe environment, and for giving them a sense of normalcy.”

The community has also provided drop-offs of coffee, food, school supplies, and cleaning supplies.

“The community has been so great to us,” Rebman said.

Lucas Ball

Mary Endres Elementary, 5th Grade What music activities are you involved in at school and what instrument do you play? At school, I am involved in the 5th grade Mary Endres orchestra. At the beginning of last year’s school year, I chose to play the cello.

What got you interested in Music? Nothing really got me interested in music but when I was in 3rd grade, I had thought to myself, “Wow, it would be really cool if I could learn to play an instrument and get really good at it.” So, when I had the chance to participate in an orchestra, I took it.

What is your favorite part of participating Orchestra? My favorite part of participating in Orchestra is just generally playing my cello. It has become an awesome hobby for me and I really love it.

What do you plan to do with your musical talents in the future?

I don’t really have a plan on what I will do with my musical talents. I’m just going to keep playing, never give up, and see where my love for playing music takes me.

Itzeli Parada

Mary Endres Elementary, 5th Grade What music activities are you involved in at school and what instrument do you play? Chorus and Band. I play the Flute.

What got you interested in Music? Singing in the car with Christian Music.

What is your favorite part of participating in Chorus? Singing with my friends.

What do you plan to do with your musical talents in the future? Be a professional flute player.

Erina Sasaki

Mary Endres Elementary, 3rd Grade

What music activities are you involved in at school? I enjoy my music class and play the piano at home. I sometimes get to play the piano in music class, too.

What got you interested in Music? I enjoyed a piano trial lesson with my piano teacher a lot. Ever since, I’ve been playing the piano.

What is your favorite part of participating in Music Class? I like playing the recorder.

What do you enjoy most about playing your instrument?

I get to play all kinds of piano music, dark, fun, happy, fast, slow, cool, beautiful. etc.

Follow us at: www.d200MusicBoosters.org Facebook: D200 Music Boosters • Twitter @d200mboosters

SCHOOLS

decision.

“All of our teachers agreed that this emergency license was something we would pursue. We all wanted to ensure that our families would have safe child care available to them.”

“We have strict guidelines to keep everyone safe,” Assistant Director Kari Kraus said. “Our classrooms hold smaller numbers of students and provide space for elementary school students to complete distance learning.”

The facility is caring for children from six weeks through 12 years of age – from all over McHenry County.

“We have a very good rapport with other centers,” Rebman said. “So other centers have asked us to take their clients.”

That influx includes older students that are not normally at the center.

House of Children now has a room set aside for children ages 5 to 12. With the focus on eLearning in recent weeks, Rebman said, Woodstock School District 200 students have had a smooth transition.

“We get to see what the different schools are doing,” Rebman said. “...

Having been able to see students from all over. I can say firsthand that D-200 was very prepared for this.”

Rebman said students overall “have really adjusted well.”

“We are trying to keep a routine and give students and parents the peace of mind that they are safe and happy,” she said. “For that, I am so thankful to the staff.”

What music activities are you involved in at school and what instrument do you play? I play the clarinet.

What got you interested in Music? What got me interested in music is that I love to sing and dance. I wanted to learn how to play an instrument and I chose to play the clarinet.

What is your favorite part of participating in Band? What I like about the band is I like to play my instrument, and how to finger the keys.

My favorite part about the band is that I love how we make harmony.

What do you plan to do with your musical talents in the future?

Right now i don’t know where music will take me. I will learn more and in the future hopefully I can decide.

April 22-28, 2020

Mary Endres Elementary, 5th Grade

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

D-200

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D-200 Sings With ‘One Voice’ Cancellation of Choral Festival did not stop students’ music

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

April 22-28, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

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COURTESY PHOTOS

This screen shot was taken from an edited video that brought four choirs together after Woodstock School District 200 had to cancel the all-school Choral Festival that had been scheduled for March 16 – three days after local schools closed because of the coronavirus pandemic.

By Janet Dovidio

NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

One choral director’s efforts helped to capture all the choir voices in District 200 for an online performance.

On March 12, Superintendent Mike Moan announced March 13 would be the last day of in-school classes for Woodstock School District 200 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

All further school events, practices, and rehearsals would be canceled.

Bob Danielson, choir director at Northwood Middle School, received messages of great disappointment from many choir members because the upcoming all-school Choral Festival featuring fifth- through 12thgrade students would not take place as scheduled March 16.

The final number of the festival would have featured all of the participating students performing the song “One Voice” by The Wailin’ Jennys.

On the morning of March 13, after consulting with his colleagues and

working with their class schedules, Danielson took his video camera to both high schools and both middle schools to record the students singing the song while in their respective choral groups. It was the final time to capture students performing together.

Choirs, soloists recorded

Choir directors Brian Jozwiak of Woodstock High School, Megan Kim at Woodstock North, and Duane Peiffer at Creekside Middle School altered their schedules to gather the choir members for the recordings.

Danielson captured all of those groups, in addition to his own choir at Northwood, in the space of four hours.

Danielson faced an additional challenge. The opening and closing voices were slated for solo performers. That same day, he was able to record soloists from WNHS, Northwood and Mary Endres who had to come quickly to record their parts. The soloists are WNHS students Allison Goers, Samantha Keyzer and Maggie Thomas;

Northwood’s Maren Filetti; and Mary Endres’ Emerich Parpart and Malaika Parpart.

Danielson spent that weekend editing the video and sharing it with Principals Bethany Hall and Jennifer Spear, as well as with Kevin Lyons, D-200’s director of communications.

“Video conferencing tools are not super conducive to rehearsing music due to sound quality and lag time,” Danielson said.

‘Voices coming together’

Jozwiak is the person who chose the song “One Voice” long before the Choir Festival.

“The song spoke to me because of its simple, uplifting message,” he said.

“The lyrics literally describe the sound of one, two, three, and all voices coming together.

“The purpose of the choral festival is to bring together students from grades five to 12 who all sing together in the final tune. The song seemed to fit perfectly.”

Danielson said the strength of the district’s music programs made it possible.

“The music department throughout District 200 has been one of our strongest programs for a long time, and still is, thanks to the dedication and flexibility of our music staff, past and present,” Danielson said. “The video actually came about by happy accident and a lot of hard work.”

The video reached a wider audience when WGN-TV ran a clip on the evening news March 19.

To watch the video, visit woodstockschools.org. On the home page, click on the video titled “A moment of peace during this turbulent time” to enjoy the three-minute performance.

It also is available on youtube.com/ OneVoice2020.

The caption above the video says it all: “During these difficult times, we hope you enjoy this beautiful piece that expresses the strength and unity of our community.”

$1,500 stipends awarded Caroline Arnold Arnold, a 2020 graduate of Woodto talented students in arts stock High School, was honored for

By Janet Dovidio

NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

REAL WOODSTOCK STANDS FOR COMMUNITY In these difficult times, the Woodstock community continues to come together.

While non-essential businesses are closed, you can support your community in a number of ways.

Learn more at RealWoodstock.com

Hannah’s performance video,” said Nan Cibula-Jenkins, a member of the WFAA scholarship committee and emeritus professor of theater at DePaul University. “The scholarship recipients are an outstanding group of talented high school seniors. It was a real pleasure to review their artistry.”

WFAA’s Gay Mather and Maggie Amis were co-chairwomen of the 2020 Scholarship Committee.

The WFAA has supported the arts in McHenry County since 1961. In addition to its annual spring luncheon, which funds the scholarships, the group hosts the talent showcase, children’s programs, Creative Living speaker series and more.

Current officers are Mary Ellen Prindiville, president; Kristie Moynihan, first vice president; Ellen O’Rourke, second vice president; Becky Kent Medins, treasurer; and Barb Neely, secretary.

For more information, email Prindiville at info@woodstockfinearts.org.

Order for Pickup or Delivery Your favorite restaurants and stores have gotten creative and are offering meals, products, specials and even cocktails to go. Call or order online for curbside pickup and delivery.

Buy a Gift Card Shop online and purchase gift cards from local retailers and restaurants, and you are helping Woodstock businesses keep the doors open and lights on.

Donate to an Area Non-Profit We are living through a public health, economic and mental health crisis. Your support now will help an organization, its clients—and your community.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Paulson, a 2020 Marian Central graduate, was awarded a scholarship for her voice talents. Her parents are Peter and Terese Paulson. She attended Crystal Lake Montessori School for elementary and middle school education.

She will attend St. Olaf College in Minnesota.

Paulson’s activities at Marian Central included being president of the Tri-M Music Honors Society, studentdirector for the Madrigal Choir, and performer in many school musicals and plays.

“Receiving this Hannah Paulson scholarship is a blessing and an honor,” Paulson said. “I cannot wait to continue my artistic education in college.”

“We were very impressed by Caroline’s writing samples and

April 22-28, 2020

Two students from Woodstock are among 10 recipients of this year’s Helen Wright Scholarships awarded by the Woodstock Fine Arts Association.

Caroline Arnold of Woodstock High School and Hannah Paulson of Marian Central Catholic High School each received a $1,500 scholarship.

The scholarships are awarded to McHenry County high school seniors who exhibit talent in the arts.

The annual talent showcase, when each scholarship recipient performs on the stage of the Woodstock Opera House, has been canceled because of the coronavirus.

The purpose of WFAA is to champion the arts in McHenry County. The scholarships reward young men and women who have demonstrated talent in the performing, visual and literary arts. Helen Wright was a founding member and leader of the WFAA.

her creative writing talents. She is the daughter of Dr. David and Deidre Arnold. Her early education was at Olson Elementary and Creekside Middle School. She will attend Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts, where she will pursue a double major in math and data science, with the goal of working as a data scientist.

While at WHS, Arnold was captain and a member of the dance team, and she held officer positions in Blue Planet Club and National Honor Caroline Society.

Arnold “I’m so thankful to the Woodstock Fine Arts Association for providing me this opportunity,” Arnold said. “I’ve been writing short stories since I was a kid, and it was an honor to be able to share my work.”

Hannah Paulson

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Writer, singer earn WFAA scholarships

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Woodstock announces further restrictions on facilities. Page 2

By Larry Lough two by phone – unanimously approved Meeting on the same day that the Loan program, fee waivers aim to cushion effects of virus an ordinance granting the mayor new first COVID-19 death in Illinois was

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The Woodstock Independent

ANSWERING THE CALL

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Virus shuts down colleges, sends student back home

SPORTS

powers under a state of emergency, reported, council By the Larry Loughmade quick work call last week, council members voted which had been declared earlier in the LARRY@THE of its WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM agenda during the 50-minute unanimously for a $500,000 smallday. meeting. business loan program and other “These are uncharted waters in many In addition to approving the emerfunds will provide short-term forms of assistance. respects,” Mayor Brian Sager told theCity gency powers for the mayor, the counoperating to offset losses council. “... We really don’t know what cil alsocash received the fiscal yearsuf2020-21Despite a few technical glitches durfered by Woodstock’s small businesses the ultimate outcome will be.”

See EMERGENCY, Pageing 2 the 77-minute meeting, business because of the coronavirus. was conducted on a short agenda of COMMUNITY In a midweek emergency meeting emergency actions, and public comLocal seamstresses making conducted by a telephone conference ments were submitted by phone and

Effects of the coronavirus dominated last week’s meeting of the Woodstock City Council, limiting the seating for the public to a few spaces and taking over most of the discussion.

Council members – five in person and

671 E. Calhoun St., Woodstock, IL 60098 Phone: 815-338-8040 Fax: 815-338-8177 Thewoodstock independent.com

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Campbell, the Opera House announced its schedule of events would resume in May and that several recently canceled events had been rescheduled, starting with Theatre 121’s “Murder on the Orient Express,” beginning June 12.

The City Council was scheduled to meet Tuesday night – by conference call for the second time – to deal

with a busy agenda that included further extension of Mayor Brian Sager’s “state of emergency” declaration for Woodstock.

But the Board of Education of Woodstock School District 200 called off this week’s meeting. School officials hope to meet – perhaps remotely – this month.

See COVID-19, Page 2

HOOFING FOR HOPE

Classroom work done from home by students, teachers

‘Essential businesses’ keep working during health crisis

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had been canceled until May 8, not mid-April as was hoped.

In a posting by Director Daniel

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See Page that 3 programming lastBUSINESS, week to reflect

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DOING THE ‘Telehealth’ RIGHT THINGS gets patients seen

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email.

Mayor Brian Sager noted during the meeting that the public health situation was “very fluid and changing rap-Lough

By Larry idly” as the city triedLARRY@THE to take actions to WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM blunt the impact of COVID-19 on local businesses.

Information on the website of the City officials expect businesses to Woodstock Public Library was revised

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Personal protective equipment for Woodstock Fire/Rescue District first responders now includes gown, 16 calendar gloves, a mask, and eye protection, as modeled here by firefighter/EMT John Leu. Story on Page 13.

#WOODSTOCK4ALL

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Call or email for details LaufOfferhopes to add voice to issues good for addresses in 60097 & 60098 Local fuel tax on pumps April 1 $8.6 million in 2020 streets plan

By Larry Lough

LARRY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Maybe it was not surprising that Catalina Lauf of Woodstock won McHenry County last week in a sevencandidate race for the Republican nomination for the 14th District congressional seat – in her first campaign for elective office.

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Paul Schieler displays his flag while riders from Operation Wild Horse, Marine veterans Jim Welch (left) and Ryan Bentele, march their steeds along West Jackson Street last week in their Mission of Hope parade around Woodstock. Story on Page 12.

But she also finished third in the leaders who believed in my message 21 public nOtices seven-county district in a field of can- and saw an opportunity for change.” didates with established political bases StateBySen. Jim Oberweis of Sugar 22 spOrts Larry Lough The was a factor in that decision.

That would be the start in a five-year and well-funded campaigns.

Grove won the contest to challenge LARRY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM Woodstock “With fuel being so cheap now, and program that could spend up to $60 “Having lived in this county most of Democratic incumbent Lauren UnderIndependent with most people working from home, million to upgrade streets throughout my life and having a family that have wood in November.

671 E. Calhoun St., to of ease the was we didn’t think that would have suchThe a Woodstock.

By Larry Lough long been active members of our com-Woodstock’s State Sen.package Sue Rezin Morris Woodstock, IL 60098 financial of the coronavirus big impact,” Stelford said.

The City Council is expected to LARRY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM Woodstock munity served as a good foundation,” third,effects and former Kendall County Phone: 815-338-8040 will not include achairman delay in the approve contracts next week for resurIndependent Lauf said in an email interview. “Early Republican Jimcity’s MarterThe city is counting on that tax to Fax: 815-338-8177 new motor fuel tax of 3 cents a gallon, generate about $300,000 a year to facing more than 200 street “segments” 671 E. Calhoun St., on, I garnered the support of local See ELECTION, Page 4 Plans for a slightly reduced program Thewoodstock which goes into effect April 1. help pay off a $10 million, 20-year this year.

Five contractors submitted in Woodstock Woodstock, IL 60098 of street resurfacing independent.com City Manager Roscoe Stelford said bond that would finance an extensive bids on the work, which was divided Phone: 815-338-8040 were expected to be considered Tuesthe recent plunge in gasoline prices street resurfacing program in 2020.

See TAX, Page 4 Council, which Fax: 815-338-8177 day night by the City

815.338.8040 • thewoodstockindependent.com rebecca@thewoodstockindependent.com Thewoodstock independent.com

KNow what’s happening The meeting agenda showed the council was scheduled to consider a proposed $8.6 million contract with Plote Construction of Hoffman Estates to resurface 19.43 lane miles of city streets this year. Officials had hoped to improve 21.8 miles of streets that were rated “poor” or “fair” to bring them up to “good” condition, but an engineering study found some of the originally

targeted street segments needed additional work – on road base or sewers below – before they could be paved.

Local streets were divided into quadrants to allow contractors to bid for work on some or all four areas, but Plote had the low bid for each of four contracts among five bidders, two of whom bid in only one quadrant.

IN WOODSTOCK EVERY WEEK!

was to meet again by conference call because of precautions involving the coronavirus.

See STREETS, Page 2

New life for old space on Square

By Susan W. Murray

NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER

It’s still called the Caldwell Building, and it still has the door to the second-story law offices, which have been remodeled as individual working offices. The door will be removed and given to the family of Laura Caldwell, who died in March. have short-term leases that include all utilities. Renters share a kitchen, an open workspace, and a waiting area with couches. Renters can reserve a space now, with occupancy possible after the stay-at-home order is lifted.

Old and new of retail

With fingers crossed, Wilcox hopes the two stores will open by June 1, but that hinges on the lifting of the stayat-home order and on the ability to get merchandise from suppliers.

At 104 Cass St., The Thoughtfulness Shop will continue to carry the

Department 56 villages, bringing in the line’s new products each year.

“We want to serve The Thoughtfulness Shop’s clients and customers,” Wilcox said.

Besides other familiar lines from The Thoughtfulness Shop, Wilcox, with the aid of her twin teenage daughters, is looking for merchandise that is “new and hip.”

At 102 Cass St., Wilcox’s My Little Bow Peeps Shop will feature her handmade designs for newborns, children, and adults. Started as a hobby to See CALDWELL, Page 14

Presented by: Kim Keefe REALTOR® 110 1/2 N Benton St, Woodstock, IL 60098 815-333-0014 • 815.790.4852 (call or text) Kim@TeamOpenDoors.com

MARKETPLACE

Behind the multi-colored paper covering the plate glass windows of 102 and 104 Cass St., a transformation is underway.

The Thoughtfulness Shop’s home for 21 years, part of what was once known as the Excelsior Block and more recently as the Caldwell Building, is getting new ceiling tiles, flooring, and paint before splitting into two stores.

Next to Picked Emporium, Janice Ricci Wilcox will open a brick-andmortar location for her online boutique, My Little Bow Peeps Shop. On the other side of the boutique, Wilcox is working with former owners Ceal and Ken Schroeder to reopen The Thoughtfulness Shop.

Upstairs, in the former location of the Caldwell, Berner, and Caldwell law firm, 10 individual workspace suites will be available for rent.

Groundhog Partners, an investment group made up of local and Chicago business owners, bought the building from attorney Bill Caldwell in April 2019. Caldwell died in January while visiting family in Arizona.

“I’d known Bill for 18 years,” said Bethany Souza, speaking for Groundhog Partners. “Buying the building from him was really special to me.”

“Caldwell, Berner, and Caldwell” is stenciled in gold on the door that leads to the second floor between Picked Emporium and the future My Little Bow Peeps Shop. The second Caldwell is Laura, Bill and Margaret’s oldest child, who succumbed to breast cancer in March. After Souza read that one of Laura’s proudest moments was seeing her name affixed to the law firm’s door, she resolved to give the door to Laura’s sisters.

A new second-floor entrance will lead to Suites on the Square, a collection of 10 individual workspaces.

Designed for people who work remotely but can’t work from home, the furnished or unfurnished suites

Transactions filed in the McHenry County Recorder’s Office from March 26 to April 1.

■ Residence at 828 Clay St., Woodstock, was sold by Michael W. Patterson, Woodstock, to Jeffrey C. Friedel, Woodstock, for $206,000.

■ Residence at 10520 Deerpath Road, Woodstock, was sold by Mary Ryan, Lake In The Hills, to Steven J. and Karen A. Skidmore, Woodstock, for $330,000.

■ Residence at 8303 Bully Valley Road, Woodstock, was sold by Real Estate Growth Fund, San Jose, Calif., to Catherine Holoubek, Bull Valley, for $367,000.

■ Residence at 10505 Deerpath Road, Woodstock, was sold by George H. Mathes, Woodstock, to The Roy T. Peterson Trust, for $465,000.

■ Residence at 1552 Bobolink Circle, Woodstock, was sold by John Horward and Sharon L. Porter, Woodland Park, Colo., to Mark E. and Patricia Boduch, Woodstock, for $490,000.

■ Residence at 2433 Fairview Circle, Woodstock, was sold by D.R. Horton Inc.-Midwest, Vernon Hills, to Kylie Margaret Piller, Woodstock, for $278,990.

■ Residence at 116 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock, was sold by Linda J. Palys, Wonder Lake, to Yesenia Guzman, Woodstock, for $145,000.

■ Residence at 1536 Hickory Road, Woodstock, was sold by Kenneth Ghiselli, McHenry, to Kelsey Hoffman, Woodstock, for $129,900.

■ Residence at 2401 Fairview Circle, Woodstock, was sold by D.R. Horton Inc.-Midwest, Vernon Hills, to Dominick Lucchetti, Woodstock, for $305,000.

■ Residence at 1051 Oakmont Court, Bull Valley, was sold by The Ruth M. Baer-Daily Trust, Scottsdale, Ariz., to The Cheryl Rabine Revocable Trust, Bull Valley, for $700,000.

April 22-28, 2020

In Caldwell Building, Thoughtfulness Shop making a comeback

REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

Marketplace

13

April 22-28, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

14

CALDWELL

Continued from Page 13

create gifts for family and friends, Wilcox began selling her T-shirts, tutus, socks, and hair bows on Etsy in January 2019.

“I told myself I would be happy if I sold 100 items in the first year,” Wilcox said. “I sold 3,000.”

As the successful business threatened to overtake her house, Wilcox’s need for a store coincided with the right space becoming available on the Woodstock Square.

Wilcox, who used the Square as the backdrop for her products’ first photo shoot, is delighted to open a store in Woodstock.

“I want to be part of that community,” Wilcox said. “That excites me immensely.”

MARKETPLACE

A rich history

With a history going back more than 160 years, the Caldwell Building has housed some of Woodstock’s signature businesses, including L.T. Hoy’s corner drug store, the offices of the Woodstock Sentinel, D.R. Ring’s shoe store, A.W. Fuller’s dry goods store, the Farmer’s Exchange Bank, J.S. Medlar’s Photography Gallery, the L.J. Gates hardware store and tin shop, and Bohn’s Hardware.

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER

Second-floor space of the Excelsior Building, recently known as the Caldwell Building, has been remodeled for individual office suites, such as this one. Shared space and a group meeting area also are included.

Pet Week of the

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

Thank you to our Pet of the Week sponsor!

While cleaning out the basement, Souza found a box of physicians’ prescriptions for local residents. The elaborate calligraphy on each certificate, kept on file at Hoy’s drug store, allowed each bearer to buy whisky during Prohibition.

“I love history,” Souza said. “That’s why I love that building.”

Souza envisions the now-unfinished third floor as an event space for private parties. That hearkens back to the floor’s history as the Pleasure Club, where beginning in 1897, “young men could spend idle hours,” according to the city of Woodstock’s “History of the Woodstock Square.” The space then included “a billiard table, a punching bag, rings, dumbbells and Indian clubs, card tables, daily newspapers, leading periodicals, and various other games and amusements.” Gambling and drinking, however, were strictly prohibited.

Souza said an additional retail opportunity exists in the area behind Picked Emporium where a new tenant would have space for as many as eight vendors who specialize in local arts and crafts.

On the outside, Souza said, the investment group plans to have the front façade repaired and painted.

“I look forward to doing more for the community and freshening up the Square,” Souza said.

SPRING REFRESH

for your home

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Hours: Mon-Thurs 10-6, Fri 10-5, Sat 10-4 Sundays by appointment only Contractors Welcome!

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Community

15

Tale of Two Lauras

Teacher helps to set up scholarship in honor of her Marian classmate

By Janet Dovidio

NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

Two Woodstock classmates – Laura Caldwell and Laura Littner – were close friends during their high school years at Marian Central Catholic High School, where they graduated in 1985.

Laura Caldwell went on to become a litigation attorney, a Loyola Law professor, and a novelist. She died on March 1 after a long battle with breast cancer. She died just a few months after the passing of her father,

Classmates Laura Littner (left) and Laura Caldwell strike a pose at graduation from Marian Central in 1985.

William “Bill” Caldwell, whose law firm was on the Woodstock Square.

“The last time I saw her was at her dad’s funeral,” said Littner, who teaches social studies at Marian.

Littner fought her own battle with breast cancer, diagnosed in 2004 the day after she participated in a Chicago breast cancer walk. She participated in the walk as a tribute to her younger sister, Tracy Noe, who had recently overcome her own battle with breast cancer. The family story continued with the breast cancer diagnosis of Littner’s mother, Susan Martino, in 2008, just ahead of a family trip.

“I’ve been blessed that my sister, mother, and myself have had good bills of health for years now,” Littner said, “but we all know until we find a cure we cannot become complacent.”

Both Lauras participated heavily in charitable causes. Caldwell founded Loyola’s Life After Innocence program, which helps prison exonerees find jobs, housing, and job training.

Littner and her family founded Woodstock Bunco for Breast Cancer in 2005 to benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The first event

Laura Caldwell (left) attends a 2017 book signing at Read Between the Lynes for her nonfiction work “Anatomy of Innocence: Testimonies of the Wrongly Convicted.” Friend Laura Littner was at her side. raised $15,000 in one day. Profits increased each year, with the final event in 2010 raising $62,000.

“Cancer has helped me appreciate and embrace every day of my life,” See LAURA, Page 16

See LOCKWOOD, Page 17

COMMUNITY

COURTESY PHOTOS

Friends gather in 2018 for, as it turned out, the last time before Laura Caldwell died this past March 1. Pictured are (from left) Dave Zabielski, Laura Littner, Peggy Truckenbrod, Caldwell, and Brian Truckenbrod.

I just quoted Ainsley Earhardt? The world is obviously upside down when: · I find a quote I like and it turns out to be from someone on a cable channel I typically avoid. · It’s April, not October, and yet I see more people in masks than on almost any Halloween I can recall. · Students wish they were in school instead of being connected to classmates only through technology. · I have no choir rehearsals Paul or church services to attend, no Lockwood A Musing in-person Toastmasters meetings or play rehearsals to participate in, no commuter trains to catch, no plays or musicals to review, no workplace to go to except our den, no live performances or dining out to treat my wife to.

And, most significantly, the number of coronavirus cases keeps rising.

As of the day I’m writing this column – April 15 – Woodstock’s ZIP code continues to have the largest number of cases of any ZIP in McHenry County.

Sadly, our city’s residential home for developmentally disabled adults, Sheltered Village, is battling an outbreak of the virus that has already taken the lives of four residents. We’re not immune from all this.

Life has changed so drastically.

Businesses are shuttered indefinitely.

The number of people filing unemployment claims is skyrocketing. The free-fall of our economy and the continued spread of the disease lead you to hope life gets back to normal very soon, but not too soon.

April 22-28, 2020

“Children teach you to stop and smell the roses even though you’re busier than you’ve ever been before.”

– Ainsley Earhardt co-host, “Fox & Friends”

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

Smell roses even if only through mask

COMMUNITY

April 22-28, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

16

‘To-do’ list should include estate plan review Most of us have a bit of time on our hands right now. Less time commuting to work means more time to tackle old matters on the “to-do” list.

Of course that includes looking into whether estate planning would benefit your family. (The answer is “Yes” if you have children or assets.)

But those of you who checked this item off your list some time ago might want to have a review of Patricia C. your estate plan.

Kraft Why would that be Estate Planning necessary?

Demystified Changes in your family situation dictate a review of your plan if they include a change of executor, revision of the restrictions on a beneficiary accessing his fund, or change of a charitable beneficiary, for example. But the simple passage of time means that laws and best practices have changed. Only recently were we allowed to authorize someone to access and manage our digital assets after our death.

If your documents are more than a few years old, they probably do not accomplish this critical goal.

Older estate plans often include either an Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust or two Revocable Living Trusts, or both. If your family’s

total wealth is expected to remain under $4 million, this plan should be reviewed and amended. An unnecessary ILIT can mean unnecessary costs during your life. Older revocable trusts can cause an avoidable capital gains tax down the road on your beneficiaries.

The Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust in your estate plan was probably created to remove the proceeds of your life insurance policies from your taxable estate, thereby reducing estate taxes AND creating liquidity to pay any remaining estate tax.

The ILIT was a great tool. And when a family’s wealth is near or exceeding the estate tax exclusion amount, it still can perform these important functions.

But the estate tax exemption amount, which was $600,000 in 1997 and $1 million in 2002, has now risen to over $11 million. Ten to 15 years ago, moderate income level families had estates that could have incurred estate tax. Currently, those same families should “do the math” and re-evaluate the need for the ILIT. Since the Illinois estate tax exemption amount is $4 million that is the No. 1 use to evaluate the need for an ILIT or other estate tax reduction strategy.

If your plan includes an ILIT but your wealth is not near $4 million, the potential harm is not going to occur at your death. At that time the

LAURA

IN BRIEF

Littner said.

She and several Marian classmates approached Caldwell family members with the idea of a scholarship to celebrate her life. The “team” of Littner, Dave Zabielski, and Brian and Peg Truckenbrod obtained the Caldwell family’s permission and quickly established the Laura A. Caldwell Memorial Scholarship at Marian. In the space of three days, with the help of Marian’s Admissions and Development Director Kaitlyn Bordeaux, they funded the scholarship for two years with contributions via social media. Their goal is to fund it for 10 years.

“I bleed Hurricane red, and so did Laura,” Littner said.

Students who wish to apply for the scholarship may email Littner at llittner@marian.com for details and a link to the Caldwell scholarship application.

Members of the McHenry County chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby will participate in “Uniting from Home: A virtual CCL event with Katharine Hayhoe” on Zoom this weekend.

The online event Saturday will allow attendees to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day and take action on climate change, while still respecting public health recommendations for social distancing.

“Normally, we would be participating in the McHenry County Conservation District and Environmental Defenders Earth Day Event,” said Rick Johnson, co-leader of the McHenry County chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby.

Hayhoe is a world-renowned climate scientist and the creator of the PBS program “Global Weirding.”

The event will also include several breakout sessions on climate advocacy, climate organizing during the pandemic,

Continued from Page 15

Climate advocates to join virtual Earth Day activity

proceeds paid to the ILIT will be distributed to the beneficiaries named in the trust and the proceeds simply won’t be needed to pay estate tax. But during your life, you might be paying hefty premiums on life insurance you no longer need. Also, you might be paying annual costs to maintain the ILIT if you have a corporate trustee. With or without the ILIT, sometimes old life insurance policies can be converted to policies that work better for you, possibly including long-term care benefits.

The second issue affects many estate plans that include a trust for each spouse. This issue can be fixed even if the first spouse has already passed away.

Any estate plan with two living trusts can result in large capital gains taxes to be paid by the eventual beneficiaries of the estate, after the second death, when the beneficiary sells an asset he inherited.

(In Illinois, the beneficiary does not get taxed just for receiving an inheritance.) The capital gains tax occurs because the assets that sat in the family trust of the first-to-die spouse do not get a second step-up in their tax basis at the death of the other spouse.

Fixing this tax problem could mean starting over and creating one joint trust to hold the family assets.

That would require re-titling assets into the new trust. Some families

do not want to go to the trouble, or they are close to the exemption amount and might actually need two trusts to minimize estate taxes.

The problem also can be cured with appropriate language added to both trusts that, in effect, causes some of the assets held in the firstto-die family trust to be considered as being owned by the other trust at the second death. When that occurs, those assets do receive the steppedup basis at the second death. The trust language uses a formula to make sure that the amount of assets to be appointed to the second trust is never large enough to cause estate tax at the second death.

Finally, if one spouse has died, we can examine the need to keep this trust going. If it is not needed, and other requirements are met, we can often de-fund and terminate the trust, which solves this problem of trapped capital gains.

Sound complicated? It is. But it is important to learn and consider this issue because the capital gains tax on your beneficiaries can be large – and can be avoided.

Patricia C. Kraft is a Woodstock attorney in general practice, including estate and succession planning. Her column provides information, not legal advice. Like other lawyers, she offers free initial consultation. You may contact her at Pat@PatriciaKraftLaw.com.

and “depolarizing” climate conversations.

Join the program at UnitingFromHome. eventbrite.com.

Get ‘oakerage’ registered as part of 5,000 Acre Challenge

The Land Conservancy of McHenry County launched the 5,000 Acre Challenge to protect the region’s oak woods.

According to a news release, TLC, private citizens, and state and county agencies have protected or managed 3,784 acres of oak woods in McHenry County.

With the help of private landowners, TLC hopes to make it 5,000 acres.

People with oaks on their property can learn more about caring for them at 5000acres.com. Oak acreage – “oakerage” – can be researched and registered to help TLC reach its goal of 5,000 acres.

Anyone who submits oak acreage will receive a free, six-month TLC gift membership. People who don’t have oaks on their property can learn about planting oaks, volunteering, and more.

The Land Conservancy of McHenry County is a member-based, private

COURTESY PHOTO

Cheri Magrini of Woodstock is caring for oak trees on her property and has entered her oak acreage the The Land Conservacy at 5000Acres.com. nonprofit dedicated to preserving natural, scenic and agricultural land.

By Susan W. Murray

NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

“Pride and Prejudice”

by Jane Austen

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”

by William Shakespeare Who can resist the whimsy that ensues when fairies King Oberon

“The Great Gatsby”

by F. Scott Fitzgerald Now is the perfect time to cozy up with this classic. Set in the Roaring ’20s, Nick Carraway finds himself with a new job in a new and big city. He doesn’t have a lot of money, but his next-door neighbor Jay Gatsby does. The well-educated Carraway spends increasing time with his cousin Daisy and her husband, Tom. Through them, Carraway meets Jordan, Myrtle, and eventually, Jay Gatsby himself. The storyline is rich with thematic content, vivid color, and spectacular imagery. Carraway’s subdued and traditional character is starkly contrasted with the shallowness of the upper class during this decade of excess.

Available as an audiobook or ebook from the Woodstock Public Library; available to order in print or as an audiobook from Read Between the Lynes.

IN BRIEF

Farmers Market establishes rules for summer operation When the Woodstock Farmers Market officially begin its summer season on Saturday, May 2, all vendors will be required wear protective face coverings.

That was among the rules announced in a press release for the summer market, which will be set up outdoors on Saturdays only at the McHenry County Fairgrounds.

The summer market usually is on the downtown Square on Tuesdays and Saturdays starting in May, but the change in schedule and location are part of the effort to avoid the spread of

the coronavirus.

Customers also are urged to wear protective face coverings when visiting the market, which will be open 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. “... We encourage anyone with an underlying health condition not to attend the market,” the release said. “We encourage pre-ordering, and our vendors are working hard to keep personal contact to a minimum.”

Social distancing and crowd limits will be observed, and only food and farm product vendors will sell at the market, as has been the practice in recent weeks at the winter market.

This is a story about survival and human nature in its purest form – isolation. A plane filled with British schoolboys hoping to escape the dangers of an unspecified war crashes on an island and very suddenly becomes a story about the dangers of survival and a commentary on human nature. The situation grows dire as civilization and a governing body are removed and a mob mentality overtakes the boys.

A short and easy read, the themes are powerful for all ages.

Available as an audiobook or ebook from the Woodstock Public Library; available to order in print or as an audiobook from Read Between the Lynes.

“Romeo and Juliet”

by William Shakespeare Likely you were forced to read this play in school – most likely freshman year. If you have time on your hands, you just might be willing to delve into the language and diction of a time passed. Two “starcrossed” lovers come from warring families, but, despite a secret marriage, tragedy ensues. If you already know the plot, reading the play again brings out hilarious jokes, complex and dark undertones, and powerful imagery. Forget your high school experience with this one (unless, of course, it was good), and crack open one of the most-read Shakespearean classics.

Available as an audiobook or ebook from the Woodstock Public Library; available to order in print or as an audiobook from Read Between the Lynes.

Historical Society offers free activity kits for kids Free pioneer activity kits for thirdthrough fifth-graders are being offered by the McHenry County Historical Society and Museum.

According to a news release, children can learn how to plan their pioneer adventure, pack a pioneer wagon, imagine and draw a new area to settle, grow a garden, and create pioneer toys.

To get a kit, email a request to karolina@mchenrycountyhistory.org. Kits may be picked up outside the museum office at 6422 Main St. in Union.

Continued from Page 15

If you’re still allowed to work, you wonder about your own job security. You worry about staying in one spot in the grocery store too long because employees and other customers are getting too close. You hear from your oldest brother in Washington state that a community chorus rehearsal he and his wife fortunately missed on March 10 caused dozens of singers to become ill and two of them to pass away. That’s hitting close to home, even if it’s 2,000 miles from here.

When you’re dealing with all of the above, it is so very difficult to stop and smell the roses – or the currently prevalent daffodils. And yet we must. We need to remember – to notice – that there is still beauty in the world. The multi-colored sunrise, the bright green grass, and even the dusting of snow that was on the ground when I woke up this morning – all of them can bring a smile to my face. Our calico cat, Cali, hasn’t grown tired of having me around the house more, and when she purrs her pleasure at being petted or nuzzles me, it’s a beautiful feeling.

The actions of people can be just as beautiful. In last week’s Independent, I was pleased to see the neighbors-provided signs at Marge Birk’s home that genuinely flabbergasted her when she turned 100 in late March. Similarly, a surprise parade of cars driven by Grace Lutheran Church’s congregation members to our two pastors’ homes on Easter made everyone smile and showed how much we miss being able to worship, and have fellowship, with them at our church.

Ready to surprise others? I hope you’re embracing the idea of #Woodstock4all that was described in Independent publisher Cheryl Wormley’s Declarations column last week. In a nutshell, the idea is to do things that will help bring the community together to “help one another, build spirits, and instill a positive message for Woodstock” during this COVID-19 crisis. If you want to assist in some way, give a shout to Jen Wilson, Larry Lough, or Rebecca McDaniel at 815-338-8040 or send Cheryl your suggestions at indepublisher@comcast.net.

So even if it must be through a mask, remember that we do have roses to stop and smell. Marge Birk is tending to some of them – and she’s 100. If you’re younger than Marge, it’s a perfect time to seek out beauty or, even better, create some.

Paul Lockwood is an enthusiastic singer, constant punster, frequent local theater actor, active Grace Lutheran Church and Toastmasters member, occasional theater reviewer, and past president of TownSquare Players.

He’s a senior sales operations specialist and technical lead for Vitality Group USA. He’s lived in Woodstock for 19 years with his wife, Diane.

COMMUNITY

The time-old tale of unrequited love, but with a twist. Neither character is who he/she appears to be.

The intelligent and charming Elizabeth Bennet and the very rich and very private Fitzwilliam Darcy meet on poor terms. As Darcy becomes increasingly more attracted to Elizabeth, she judges Darcy’s quiet demeanor to be prideful. The plot includes many love lines, and the oft-quoted, frequently referenced novel is just as enjoyable in the 21st century as it was in the 19th.

Available as an audiobook or ebook from the Woodstock Public Library; available to order in print or as an audiobook from Read Between the Lynes.

“The Lord of the Flies”

by William Golden

17

April 22-28, 2020

Maybe, like many of us, you viewed the classics as torture when you were a student in high school or college. And maybe as you’ve grown a little or a lot older and a little or a lot wiser, you’ve been promising yourself that you will, one day, read the great works of literature.

What could be a better time than the present? This week, The Woodstock Independent’s Tricia Carzoli, a former English teacher at Marian Central, suggests five approachable titles – each a good place to begin.

and Queen Titania engage in a marital squabble that is heightened by a playful servant, Puck? The servant finds the flower requested by Oberon, the flower that sets the plot in motion. Poor Titania ends up falling in love with the Athenian Bottom, whose head has been turned into the head of a donkey.

Best friends Helena and Hermia end up in a romantic mess with beaux Lysander and Demetrius. Will the marriage of Theseus, duke of Athens, and Hippolyta, queen of the Amazons, happen?

Available as an audiobook or ebook from the Woodstock Public Library; available to order in print or as an audiobook from Read Between the Lynes.

LOCKWOOD

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

THE INDEPENDENT’S READING LIST FOR THE WEEK: CLASSICS

COMMUNITY

April 22-28, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

18

•••PLEASE CHECK WITH SPONSORS OR VENUES ABOUT CANCELLATIONS OR POSTPONEMENTS OF EVENTS•••

Happenings

calendar

22 WEDNESDAY

11:30 - 12:15 Available to seniors, 60 and older $5 Call to reserve, 815-338-0125

EARTH DAY

MAY

SENIOR LUNCH PICKUP

2 SATURDAY

conserveMC.org

Dorr Township offices 1039 Lake Ave. 11:30 - 12:15 Available to seniors, 60 and older $5 Call to reserve, 815-338-0125

24 FRIDAY

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS

Marian Central Catholic High School 1001 McHenry Ave. 8 to 8:30 p.m.

Drive by and honk

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET McHenry County Fairgrounds outside 11900 Country Club Road 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org

5 TUESDAY WOODSTOCK CITY COUNCIL MEETING

29 WEDNESDAY

By conference call 312-626-6799 Meeting ID: 420860115 7 p.m.

Dorr Township offices 1039 Lake Ave.

6 WEDNESDAY

SENIOR LUNCH PICKUP

SENIOR LUNCH PICKUP

Dorr Township offices 1039 Lake Ave. 11:30 - 12:15 Available to seniors, 60 and older $5 Call to reserve, 815-338-0125

9 SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET McHenry County Fairgrounds outside 11900 Country Club Road 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org

13 WEDNESDAY SENIOR LUNCH PICKUP

Dorr Township offices 1039 Lake Ave. 11:30 - 12:15 Available to seniors, 60 and older $5 Call to reserve, 815-338-0125

14 TUESDAY

To submit calendar items, email pr@thewoodstockindependent.com D-200 BOARD MEETING

SENIOR LUNCH PICKUP

Woodstock High School Learning Resource Center Meeting details to be announced 815-338-8200

Dorr Township offices 1039 Lake Ave. 11:30 - 12:15 Available to seniors, 60 and older $5 Call to reserve, 815-338-0125

16 SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET McHenry County Fairgrounds outside 11900 Country Club Road 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org

19 TUESDAY WOODSTOCK CITY COUNCIL MEETING By conference call 312-626-6799 Meeting ID: 420860115 7 p.m.

20 WEDNESDAY

Resurrection Catholic Church

23 SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET McHenry County Fairgrounds outside 11900 Country Club Road 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org

30 SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET McHenry County Fairgrounds outide 11900 Country Club Road 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org

2918 South Country Club Road Woodstock, IL 60098

We welcome all to join us at our Mass times: Saturday at 5:00 pm & Sunday at 8:00 am and 10:30 am.

We, the members of the Resurrection Catholic Church, are a prayerful, loving community formed by the Holy Spirit, striving to be a sign of the Gospel values of Jesus Christ: justice, truth and love.

I SHOULD PROBABLY GET A RIDE HOME. BUZZED DRIVING IS DRUNK DRIVING

JEWISH REFORMED CONGREGATION TIKKUN OLAM 503 W. Jackson St. (St. Ann’s Episcopal Church building) Call 815-455-9236 or email tikkunolam@ hotmail.com for service information. n McHENRY COUNTY JEWISH CONGREGATION 8617 Ridgefield Road, Crystal Lake 815-455-1810 Worship: 7 p.m. Friday, 9:30 a.m. Saturday NEW LIFE CHRISTIAN CENTER 5115 Dean St. • 815-337-4673 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday

30 years ago – 1990

■ A group of teenagers approached the Woodstock City Council with a request that the city build a skateboard park.

■ About 70 people attended a meeting of the Bull Valley Board of Trustees to oppose the construction of the proposed Windy Knoll Farm development bounded by Mason Hill, Cherry Valley, and Crystal Springs roads.

■ Longtime city employees Jim Bates and Gaylord Stebbins retired. Bates was later honored with the naming of Bates Park on Seminary Avenue.

25 years ago – 1995

■ Woodstock Girl Scout Elizabeth Ritter headed up an Earth Day Celebration at Emricson Park.

■ Carl Kaufmann and Kirk Von Lanken, both of Woodstock, won first place at the Masters Walleye Circuit Fishing Tournament.

20 years ago – 2000

■ The City Council approved a $35,000 payment to Broadacre Management, the firm chosen as developer of record for the Die Cast redevelopment site along Clay Street.

■ The middle school task force surprised the District 200 Board of Education with a recommendation to build a new middle school and convert Olson Middle School to an elementary school.

■ Woodstock High School basketball coach Gordie Tebo was chosen District 6 Coach of the Year by the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association.

15 years ago – 2005

■ Brian Sager was elected mayor of Woodstock, defeating incumbent Alan Cornue, who was seeking a third term.

■ Voters, by a sizable margin, approved the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District’s referendum in support of a tax increase to fund ambulance services.

10 years ago – 2010

■ Dorr Township electors voted 132 to 60 against a proposal that would have rebated $1 million to taxpayers within the township. The vote came after about two hours of discussion during the township’s annual meeting held at Woodstock High School.

19 ■ The Woodstock City Council unanimously proceeded with preliminary dedication of Westwood Park to be included in the Illinois Nature Preserves System. The 63.6-ace park is adjacent to The Land Conservancy of McHenry County-owned Yonder Prairie.

5 years ago – 2015

■ The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150 filed a lawsuit against the McHenry County Board, accusing board members of failing to comply with the Illinois Open Meetings Act when at least eight of its members gathered at a private discussion with Gov. Bruce Rauner at the Woodstock Opera House earlier in the month.

■ Ed Brucker, a WHS coach for 31 years and a Marian Central coach for 12 years, was inducted into the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Brucker compiled a record of 164-59 at WHS and 63-23 at Marian. He led the Blue Streaks to an undefeated season and the IHSA 5A state title in 1997 and the Hurricanes to a second–place finish in 5A in 2006.

1 year ago – 2019

■ Kathie Comella was named Woman of the Year by the Woodstock Professional & Business Women. Comella began acting in and directing shows by the Young People’s Wing of the Woodstock Fine Arts Association in 1964.

She helped start TownSquare Players in 1968 and Woodstock Musical Theater Company in 1974, and for 15 years she was stage manager of “Paradise People.” Many will remember her as Aunt Holly, reading Christmas stories to children at the Opera House.

■ The City Council approved nearly $800,000 in sales tax and property tax incentives for Kunes Country Auto Group. Kunes planned to spend $3.6 million to expand its showroom and service facility by 6,000 square feet.

Kunes was requesting the state allow a driveway off U.S. 14 for auto transport trucks and delivery vehicles.

■ Marian Central’s girls track and field team finished second in the annual McHenry County meet. Dominique Thomas dominated on the track, winning the 100-meter dash in 12.52 seconds and helping her 4x100 relay team win by finishing in 50.97.

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■ REDEEMER LUTHERAN 1320 Dean St. • 815-338-9370 Worship: 8:45 a.m. Sunday ■ RESURRECTION CATHOLIC 2918 S. Country Club Road 815-338-7330 Worship: 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sunday; 5 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m. weekdays ■ ST. ANN’S EPISCOPAL 503 W. Jackson St. • 815-338-0950 Worship: 8 and 10 a.m. Sunday ■ ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN 401 St. John’s Road • 815-338-5159 Worship: 5 p.m. Saturday; 9 a.m. Sunday ■ ST. MARY CATHOLIC 313 N. Tryon St. • 815-338-3377 Worship: 7:30 a.m. Monday - Saturday; 12:15 p.m. Monday-Friday; 5 and 6:30 p.m.

(Spanish) Saturday; 7:30, 9 and 10:30 a.m., noon (Spanish), 5 p.m. Sunday ■ THE BRIDGE CHRISTIAN 2620 Bridge Lane • 815-496-0548 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 2016 Hartland Road • 815-334-1703 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ THE VINE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 1132 N. Madison St. • 815-338-3380 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ UNITY SPIRITUAL CENTER 225 W. Calhoun St. • 815-337-3534 unitywoodstock.org Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ UPPER FOX VALLEY QUAKER MEETING 4614 Pioneer Road, McHenry 815-385-8512 Discussion and singing, 9 a.m. Sunday Worship, 10 a.m., fellowship, 11 a.m.

Sunday ■ WOODSTOCK ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1201 Dean St.• 815-338-1316 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ WOODSTOCK BIBLE CHURCH 118 Benton St. Worship: 10:30 a..m. Sunday

FLASHBACKS

April 22-28, 2020

■ BAHA’I COMMUNITY OF WOODSTOCK Gatherings are open to the public the second Saturday of each month.

For information: 815-337-0126 woodstock.bahais@gmail.com ■ BLUE LOTUS TEMPLE & MEDITATION CENTER 221 Dean St. • 815-337-7378 Meditation: 10 a.m. Tuesday, Saturday; 7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday ■ CASA DE BENDICION 8015 Ridgefield Road, Crystal Lake (Crystal Lake Christian Church) Worship: 1 p.m. Sunday, 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday ■ CHRIST LIFE 13614 W. Jackson St. • 815-338-4934 Worship: 10:30 a.m. Sunday ■ COVENANT REFORMED BAPTIST CHURCH 4609 Greenwood Road P.O. Box 463 • 815-575-9612 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ EDEN BAPTIST 1903 N. Seminary Ave. • 815-814-7847 Worship: 3 p.m. Sunday (Spanish) ■ FIRST CHURCH OF CHRIST, SCIENTIST 111 W. South St. • 815-338-2731 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ FIRST PRESBYTERIAN 2018 N. Route 47 • 815-338-2627 Worship: 9:30 a.m. Sunday Facebook and YouTube ■ FIRST UNITED METHODIST 201 W. South St. • 815-338-3310 fumcwoodstock.org Worship: 9:30 a.m. Sunday Sunday school for children 9:45 a.m.

■ FREE METHODIST 934 N. Seminary Ave. • 815-338-3180 Worship: 10:30 a.m.

■ GOOD NEWS CHURCH Meeting at Dorr Township Community Room, 1039 Lake Ave. 815-575-9224 goodnewswoodstock.org Worship: 10:15 a.m. Sunday ■ GRACE FELLOWSHIP 200 Cairns Court • gfchurch.org Worship: 9 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday ■ GRACE LUTHERAN 1300 Kishwaukee Valley Road 815-338-0554 Worship: 5 p.m. Saturday (informal traditional); Sunday 8:30 a.m. (traditional), 10:45 a.m. (contemporary) ■ HOUSE OF BLESSING 2018 N. Route 47 (First Presbyterian Church building) cbhbfil413.com Worship: 1 p.m. Sunday

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PUBLIC NOTICE

Clerk) (Published in The Woodstock Independent April 8, 2020, April 15, 2020, April 22, 2020)L11025

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME Public Notice is hereby given that on MARCH 10, 2020 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: Gardner Environmental Services located at 312

Tall Grass Drive Harvard IL 60033. Owner Name & Address: David Gardner 312 Tall Grass Dr., Harvard Illinois 60033.

Dated: MARCH 10, 2020 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk) (Published in The Woodstock Independent April 15, 2020, April 22, 2020)L11014

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME Public Notice is hereby given that on MARCH 10, 2020 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: Brennan Lawn & Landscaping Services located at 310 N. Cunat Blvd. Richmond IL 60071. Owner Name & Address: Daniel Brennan 310 N. Cunat Blvd. Richmond IL 60071.

Dated: MARCH 10, 2020 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk) (Published in The Woodstock Independent April 15, 2020, April 22, 2020)L11015

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME Public Notice is hereby given that on APRIL 6, 2020 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: DIANE BISHOP HUSSEY COACHING located at 7902 PINOAK DR. WONDER LAKE, IL 60097. Owner Name & Address: DIANE HUSSEY 7902 PINOAK DR., WONDER LAKE, IL 60097/P.O. BOX 584.

Dated: APRIL 6, 2020 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk) (Published in The Woodstock Independent April 15, 2020, April 22, 2020L11026

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ASSUMED NAME Public Notice is hereby given that on APRIL 2, 2020 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: PEET EQUESTRIAN located at 8116 WHITE OAKS ROAD WONDER LAKE, IL 60097. Owner Name & Address: HOWARD PEET AND ERICA PEET 8116 WHITE OAKS ROAD, WONDER LAKE, IL 60097.

Dated: APRIL 2, 2020 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County

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SPORTS

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Sports

25 THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

See COLLEGE, Page 27

SPORTS

Alex Kaufmann is one of the many reasons the Murray State University volleyball team won so many matches in the past four years.

Her role was to limit the other team from scoring points. The Marian Central Catholic graduate, who helped the Hurricanes win a state championship in 2015, finished her college career with Dan 1,039 digs as she Chamness helped Murray The College State win more Report than 20 games in three of her four college seasons. She is one of 19 Murray State volleyball players to have 1,000 digs in a career.

“Reaching 1,000 digs was never a goal that I made,” said the 5-foot-5 defensive specialist. “At some point during my senior season, someone told me that I was only 12 digs away from 1,000. I had no idea.

“Our coaching staff never wanted us to concentrate on personal stats. They wanted our focus to be on the bigger Alex goal of a team win. I Kaufmann truly took on that mentality and would get my digs for the sake of the team. I hope my time at Murray State is marked by the way I cared for and supported my teammates. That and the energy I brought to the match rather than the statistics or playing time.”

In addition to her digs, she finished her career with 108 assists, 83

April 22-28, 2020

Kaufmann ends college career with 1,000 digs

COURTESY PHOTOS

Jeremy Rosheisen of JR Performance Horses works a client’s horse. The trainer has not seen a big change in his own daily routine during the shelter-in-place order.

No quarantine for equine athletes

While horse owners cannot gather, training continues as usual

By Sandy Kucharski

SANDY@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

While the world of organized equinerelated competitions and activities is on hiatus, the training and care of equine athletes never takes a break.

Horses rely entirely on their humans for feed and shelter, so their care is an essential activity.

The Woodstock area is abundant with horse farms, from small private backyard barns to large public boarding, training and lesson facilities.

Social distancing is no problem when it’s a walk to the backyard, but those who house their horses at a boarding facility have found the situation a bit more challenging. Most group lesson programs and activities are on hold, and some boarding barns have closed or greatly restricted visitors.

Farms such as Valley View Acres in Woodstock rely on lessons and preparing young riders for national competitions. The inability to gather as a group has halted the lesson program, and the cancellation of multiple early season competitions has altered training goals.

“Our equine business has been changed completely,” said Amber Bauman, owner of Valley View Acres.

For trainers like Jeremy Rosheisen, however, it’s business as usual. Fortunately, COVID-19 does not transfer to the equine species, and one-onone contact with horses isn’t a threat, so he can continue with his daily routine of riding and caring for his clients’ horses. Plus, he felt that horsemen are well-equipped to cope with managing the virus.

“With horses, we’re so used to getting dirty, and I think we’re more selfaware of needing to stay clean,” said Rosheisen, who trains as JR Performance Horses out of Bauman’s Valley See TRAINER, Page 27

Woodstock trainer Jeremy Rosheisen at “the office.”

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April 22-28, 2020

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Academic All-Conference Team all four years.

“My plan is to work in the ministry, either at a high school or on a college/university campus,” Kaufmann said. “I have always been passionate about youth ministry. My degree covered many applicable topics such as team communication, leadership, conflict resolution, persuasion and critical thinking.”

Continued from Page 25

View Acres.

While the shelter-in-place order hasn’t made a big difference in his daily routine so far, he said, it will negatively affect his business if the order continues for an extended time period.

“At this point, we are holding off on new customers,” Rosheisen said.

This could lead to some empty stalls a couple of months down the road, which is rough for trainers who rely on having horses in for training.

Reining in the workouts

One of the main goals of many training programs is to prepare horses for competition. With the cancellation of pretty much everything, that goal looks a little different now.

“The entire year is up for grabs,” Rosheisen said. “We don’t know when [the coronavirus] will wrap up or wind down.”

NN SCOREBOARD NN COIURTESY PHOTO

Alex Kaufman performs one of her signature digs for Murray State. tough season for me personally, losing playing time and tearing my AC. Everything happened for a reason, and I grew from all the struggles.

“Having Rachel here with me was such a gift. Not many athletes get a chance to play 13 consecutive seasons with their best friend. Coming into college with her made socializing much easier. It was also nice to have someone to turn to to when times were tough in those first months of freshman year, when we did not know anyone else.”

Like any other athlete, horses in training involve timing and getting ready to peak for a specific competition. Without a solid timeframe for when things will open up again, it’s hard to set a training timeline.

Some of the larger year-end competitions are still on the calendar at this point, but just like any athlete or team, riders rely on the smaller local shows to practice and get in shape for the big events.

“Our junior rider [Alexis Bauman] is losing her year of riding, which is super sad,” Bauman said.

Although he expressed a concern that this might result in a big financial hit, Rosheisen looked at another possible scenerio.

“By the same token, a client might decide to leave a horse in training longer because they are stuck at home with nowhere to go,” he said, leaving him with more training opportunities to work on different skills not directly related to a specific event.

The daughter of Jeff and Tara Kaufmann of Woodstock, she will graduate in May with a Bachelor of Science in organizational communication. She also earned a minor in sports communication. At this point, she has been on the Murray State dean’s list all seven semesters and carries a gradepoint average of 3.95/4.00 scale.

She has also earned the Ohio Valley Conference Medal of Honor three different times for carrying a perfect 4.0 grade-point average during the volleyball season. She was also on the OVC

NO SCORES TO REPORT ALL SCHOOL SPORTS CANCELED THROUGH APRIL 30

SCOREBOARD PRESENTED BY

SPORTS

TRAINER

Continued from Page 25

Dan Chamness writes The College Report for The Independent.

April 22-28, 2020

service aces, and four kills. The Racers were 86-39 overall and 52-12 in the Ohio Valley Conference.

“Rachel [Giustino] made the commitment to attend Murray State first,” Kaufmann said about her high school and college teammate. “I was only communicating with small NCAA Division III schools, because I was unsure weather I wanted to commit so much time to volleyball in college.

“After an incredible senior year, both in high school and club, I changed my mind and started communicating with some Division I coaches. Coach [David] Schwepker had seen me play when he was recruiting Rachel. When he heard I was considering playing Division I, he set up a visit for me, and I committed a few days later.”

In her final season, she finished with 218 digs, 24 service aces, and 17 assists.

She played in all 30 matches and made four starts. The Racers finished 19-11 overall and 12-4 in the OVC. “I had many challenges my junior year, in 2018, but it was probably my best,” Kaufmann said. “The team chemistry was so good, and we had a ton of fun. We were very successful, winning an OVC title and making a NCAA Tournament appearance. It was

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