The
Woodstock
I NDEPENDENT
May 20-26, 2020
Published every Wednesday | Est. 1987 | Serving Woodstock, Wonder Lake and Bull Valley, Ill. | www.thewoodstockindependent.com | $1.00
City plots recovery course Council works within state plan while appealing orders By Larry Lough
LARRY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
A&E
You won’t believe Bill Murray’s day in latest Jeep promotion
MARKETPLACE
PAGE 11
Imagine the Woodstock Farmers Market returning to the Square for the summer, with vendors on both sides of the street to ensure social distancing. Or how about listening to a city band concert downtown from your car, or watching the July 4 fireworks
in Emricson Park while parked – with permission – on the grass. Would you take food delivery from a local restaurant that brings the order to your table in what is normally a downtown parking space? Those are among the adjustments the Woodstock City Council is considering to try to rescue some summer traditions from the state’s coronavirus
restrictions. Some decisions were expected to be made at this Tuesday night’s council meeting while local government leaders appeal Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s Restore Illinois recovery plan that would further delay resumption of activities in McHenry County because of high levels of COVID-19 in Chicago.
See CITY PLAN, Page 2
HITTING THE ROAD
Some businesses hit hard, others thrive in pandemic PAGE 13
COMMUNITY
Farm families eyeing the sky looking for planting weather
PAGE 17
INDEX Obituaries
4
Opinion
6
Schools A&E
9 11
Marketplace 13 Community
17
Calendar
24
Classified
28
Puzzles
26
Public Notices 27 Sports
31
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
Woodstock has had enough dry days lately that A Lamp Contractors of Schaumburg has been able to get started on the 12 street-resurfacing projects that did not get done last fall because of cold, wet weather. Wicker Street north of Washington Street is among 2019 projects on the 2020 to-do list.
Loans find smaller local businesses By Larry Lough
LARRY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
Woodstock has granted $265,000 in small-business loans from the program created by City Council eight weeks ago. Garrett Anderson, the city’s director of Economic Development, said
59 applications had been processed through Friday, with 53 being granted the maximum $5,000 loan to provide short-term operating cash to businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic. That’s part of a $500,000 program the council approved during an emergency meeting March 25.
That means 42 loans are still available for businesses that have at least $50,000 a year in sales. If small businesses need funding to weather the COVID-19 storm, “We encourage them to apply,” Anderson said. Application are available on the website choosewoodstock.com or by
See LOANS, Page 5
NEWS
May 20-26, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
2
Woodstock joins recovery appeal to state By Larry Lough
criteria to enter Phase 3 (Recovery) of the Restore Illinois plan,” their letter said. State Rep. Steve Reick later added his support. “Public health, personal freedom, and economics are not the only competing values at stake,” Reick said in a news release. “We’re now beginning to experience the social and psychological costs of prolonged isolation, which will only get worse over time.”
LARRY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
Woodstock last week joined two dozen other McHenry County municipalities in asking Gov. J.B. Pritzker to revise his Restore Illinois plan so that the county won’t be tied to Chicago in the schedule to ramp up business and social activities as coronavirus cases decline. In an eight-page letter sent May 12, the McHenry County Council of Governments made its argument that the county was already meeting the governor’s benchmarks and should be designated as its own region or realigned with the North Central Region rather than the Northeast Region. The next day, officials from Peoria County unveiled their own COVID-19 reopening plan that would break up the 27-county North Central Region to allow a sub-region of 11 counties, including Peoria and Bloomington. Like McHenry County, they seek permission to take a more localized approach than the state is in protecting the local public and economic health.
MCHENRY COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
McHenry County’s percentage of positive COVID-19 tests are falling. Pritzker’s plan divides the state into four broad regions and allows for the gradual reopening of businesses and public activities in five phases if they meet and sustain certain benchmarks for infection rates and hospital capacity over a 28-day period. The final, full reopening phase would occur only after a COVID-19 vaccine or treatment is widely available, something that could take one year or more. The McHenry County letter noted that Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot had
“There is a wide range of public opinion out there, with great intensity on both sides.”
CITY PLAN
Continued from Page 1
During an emergency meeting of the council last week, Mayor Brian Sager talked about the case he and other mayors were putting together with county leaders to try to convince the governor to realign McHenry County in his recovery plan. That plan was sent to the governor last Wednesday. “We trust we will receive due consideration,” Sager said, “as we weave this together in a defensible position.” Strengthening the county’s case, the mayor said, is the fact any McHenry County resident can now get a test for the coronavirus. Northwestern Medicine and Mercyhealth are on board with the appeal because of their hospital capacity to treat COVID-19 patients, he said. Woodstock and the rest of the state are in Phase 2 of the governor’s fivestage plan to reopen businesses and social activities. Communities that meet the plan’s benchmarks for new infections and hospital capacity are expected to move into the more permissive Phase 3 as early as June 1, and maybe Phase 4 by July. But unless the governor revises his plan, McHenry County for now is stuck in the nine-county northeast region, which includes Chicago and
enacted modifications to the state’s plan to address her city’s circumstances. “Similarly,” the letter said, “McHenry County has unique circumstances that make it no less unique, and no less deserving of further review.” Among officials signing the letter were County Board Chairman Jack Franks, Woodstock Mayor Brian Sager, and Bull Valley Village President Emily Berendt. “... [W]e ... believe that McHenry County has more than met the
Mike Turner, Woostock deputy mayor
Cook County, the state’s epicenter for COVID-19 cases.
Businesses at risk
Mayor Sager opened last week’s meeting with an explanation of the city’s position in trying to balance the governor’s orders, the need to protect the health and welfare of Woodstock residents, and the desire to help local businesses survive the economic hit caused by statewide restrictions. “It’s a very, very difficult situation,” the mayor said. “I’ve never seen a conflict this challenging. ... These things, more than I’ve ever seen, are at odds.” Council members, in the emergency meeting and again this week, are trying to “follow the governor’s ... orders while also considering the available options within these guidelines,” Sager said. Deputy Mayor Mike Turner said it was the council’s role “to guide our way through this pretty nasty storm.” But he reported he had heard from both sides – those who want to open the economy to help save small businesses, and those who fear opening too fast will bring a resurgence of the COVID-19 outbreak.
“There’s a wide range of public opinion out there,” Turner said, “with great intensity on both sides. ... The public needs to speak up.” But he noted that some local businesses were “reaching a drastic level” and were at risk of not surviving. “I’m concerned about the permanence of the impact of this,” he said. Councilman Gordie Tebo suggested the response had to involve a citywide effort, especially with restaurants and bars, which have been limited to carryout and delivery orders for nearly two months. “We can save these businesses,” Tebo said, “if the community rallies around them.” “We are up against a wall,” Turner added. “We need to help them.”
‘Push the envelope’
Some of the council’s ideas for businesses and activities would require the city to waive specific local ordinances. The ban on consuming alcohol in public would clash with the plan to serve alcohol – bottled drinks and drink “kits” that customers mix themselves – on public property.
Hitting benchmarks
Citing statistics on the county’s COVID-19 cases and local hospitals’ capacity to handle a surge of patients if necessary, the local leaders reported McHenry County “has been able to meet or exceed the criteria set forth in the Restore Illinois Plan needed to move into Phase 3 or Phase 4.” McHenry County, like the rest of the state, is now in Phase 2, which limits “non-essential” businesses such restaurants and retailers to pickup and delivery orders. Phase 3 would allow offices, retailers, barbershops, and See RESTORE, Page 4
If ground conditions are right, the city would allow parking on the grass in Emricson Park for the fireworks show. That is not allowed without city permission. Councilwoman Wendy Piersall was concerned about enforcement of requirements for wearing masks, limiting group sizes, and cleaning tables for reuse, among other issues. Police Chief John Lieb said his department was prepared for its role. “We are fully staffed,” the chief said. “Whatever the city needs.” Among the few ideas that lacked consensus was the closing of traffic on the Square, making it a pedestrian mall for the summer. The mayor acknowledged some businesses were “at the edge of the cliff” but could get assistance from the city without violating the state directives. “There are opportunities within the framework of the governor’s order,” Sager said. “We might be able to help.” With the council consensus to move forward with a reopening strategy – “aggressively,” Turner urged – Sager instructed the city staff to work on details to make it happen. The plan was to be reviewed at this week’s regular meeting. Tebo said the city’s help should go as far as possible. “If we have to push the envelope a little bit,” he said, “we need to do that.”
3 THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT May 20-26, 2020
NEWS
Real Independent. Real Creativity. Real Woodstock. In Woodstock, our businesses thrive thanks to a community of entrepreneurs and leaders. Phoenix Woodworking is one of the many manufacturers that call Woodstock home. Given Woodstock’s outstanding location, ample workforce and creative spirit, Phoenix Woodworking is able
to create beautifully crafted projects for hospitals, schools and office buildings. Whether you’re looking for an independent business community or your perfect home, Woodstock has it all.
NEWS
May 20-26, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
4
IN BRIEF
OBITUARIES
Edward M. Nickels, 89
Edward Marion Nickels, 89, a former Chicago police officer, died on May 2, 2020. Edward retired as the commander of the Bomb and Arson Division of the Chicago Police Department, after 31 years of dedicated police service. While rising in the ranks of the department and raising a family with four daughters, he took courses at night to earn a degree of Bachelor of Arts from DePaul Edward M. University. He later Nickels attended DePaul University School of Law and earned his Juris Doctorate degree. After retiring from the department, Edward was appointed as the director of Arson Investigations for the office of the State Fire Marshal. He is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Stephany Nickels (née Madrzyk). He was the loving father of Rhonda Nickels, Carolyn (Daniel) Offenbach, Kimberly (Edward) Zurawski, and Pamela (Leslie) Caligiuri. He was the proud grandfather of Gwendolyn, Bridget, Emily, Alex, Adam, Rachel, Edward, Hayden, Jennifer, Kristy, and Laura and great-grandfather of eight. Edward is preceded in death by his brothers and sisters: Leo, Victoria, Lillian, Irene,
RESTORE
Continued from Page 2
salons to reopen and permit gathering of 10 or fewer people, with face coverings and social distancing “the norm.” Phase 4 would allow gatherings of up to 50 people, permit restaurants and bars to reopen, and resume child care and in-school classes with guidance from the state Department of Health. The economy would fully reopen in Phase 5 “with safety precautions continuing.”
Alfreida, and Alfred. He was the fond uncle and friend to many. Services are private. Interment will be at Resurrection Cemetery, Justice, Ill. We remain committed to the health and well-being of our community, our guests and our associates; keeping in mind the public health concern (COVID-19), please leave a memorial message at Querhammerandflagg.com, in lieu of attendance. For information call the funeral home at 815-459-1760. James A. Zoia, 89, of Woodstock, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 9, 2020, at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born March 24, 1931, in Chicago to Eugene P. and Marie E. (Callahan) Zoia. He married Shirley Dacy on Sept. 13, 1958. She passed away on Dec.24, 1967. Jim then married Shirley E. Bell on June 7, 1969. She passed away on April 27, 2015. Jim was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Woodstock. He was a veteran, serving in the U.S. Army as an MP stationed in Verdun, France, during the Korean War. When he returned home after the war, he immediately went to work with his father in the family business, Zoia Monument Co. in Woodstock. Jim proudly kept the family tradition going for 65 years before turning the operation over to his son, Tony. Jim was also a licensed embalmer, obtaining
his degree from Worsham Mortuary College. He was a member of the Woodstock VFW and the Elks Lodge. Jim is survived by his children, Karen (Bruce) Johnson, Timothy (Pam) Bell, Anthony (Debbie) Zoia, Kimberlee (Anthony) Przybysz; grandchildren, Kaitlyn (Jaimie) Przybysz Wyckoff, Ryan (Hannah Gartner) Przybysz, Natalie Zoia, Jonathan Zoia, Eric Johnson; three sisters, Jeanne Ellen Mitchell, Eileen Liston, James A. Helen Ann BashZoia ford; his loving nieces; many dear friends, including Delores and Robert Bell, Celine Voris and Robert and Marian Piquette; and all his valued employees, past and present. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wives. A private interment service was held for the family in the Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Woodstock. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to either the American Cancer Society or JourneyCare Hospice. For more information, contact the Schneider Leucht Merwin Cooney Funeral Home, Woodstock, at 815-338-1710, or visit slmcfh.com.
Specifically, the letter asks that state officials: 1. Acknowledge that McHenry County does not belong in the Northeast Health Region and allow the county to be its own region “because of the high volume of healthcare capabilities we possess,” or move the county to the North Central Health Region. 2. Approve the county’s move from Phase 2 to Phase 3 of the Restore Illinois Plan after the state independently confirms the county has met all five criteria in the Restore Illinois Plan. 3. Commit to a timely review and
approval of the transition to Phase 4. “This will only occur after McHenry County has a plan in place for hiring and training contact tracers sufficient to sustain a surge in McHenry County,” the letter said, “so that the [Department of Health] can continue to maintain their current ability to begin contact tracing and monitoring within 24 hours of diagnosis for more than 90 percent of cases in the county.” The Council of Governments’ letter to the governor is available to read on the city of Woodstock website, woodstockil.gov.
James A. Zoia, 89
PUBLIC SAFETY LOG
Woodstock Police Department
■ Sergio D. Padro, 25, Woodstock, was arrested May 11 in the 900 block of Pleasant Street on a McHenry County warrant charging driving while intoxicated. Release with notice to appear. Court date May 28. ■ Ana G. Ramirez, 23, Woodstock, was arrested May 13 in the 100 block of East Melody Lane on four counts of domestic battery. Taken to jail. Bond and court date to be set. ■ Rebecca L. Schultz, 35, Woodstock, was arrested May 13 in the 700 block
of South Eastwood Drive on a charge of driving while license suspended. Released after posting 10 percent of $2,500 bond. Court date July 2. ■ Luis Quintero, 24, Woodstock, was arrested May 14 in the 800 block of Washington Street on charges of criminal trespass to land and no valid driver’s license. Bonds $100 and $2,500. Released on personal recognizance. Court date June 18..
Charges are only accusations of crimes, and defendants are presumed innocent until proved guilty.
Woodstock Fire/Rescue District EMS calls for May 7-13: 72 Fire Runs May 7
12:24 p.m. – 700 block of Pleasant Street, trash/rubbish fire, contained; truck, two engines, two ambulances, shift commander, chief May 8
6:22 p.m. –300 block of Leah Lane, lockout; truck May 11
9:47 a.m. – 3000 block of Raffel Road,
Property tax bills mailed; payment date extended
Property tax bills for the spring installment were mailed out Friday, although taxpayers have a penaltyfee waiver from meeting the June 15 payment deadline. According to a news release, some collection procedures in the McHenry County Treasurer’s Office also have changed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The County Board approved a 90-day waiver of late fees and interest. That means the first and second installments are both due Sept. 15. The waiver does not apply to escrowed property tax payments. People can still pay their taxes at the Treasurer’s Office, 2100 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock, but service is limited to drive-thru only. Hours are 7:15 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Monday through Friday. Taxpayers can pay online through the Treasurer’s Office website, and can pay by mail. For more information, call the office at 815-334-4260 or email treas@mchenrycountyil.gov.
Woodstock High to get new fire alarm system
Woodstock High School will install a new fire alarm system so that guards don’t have to be stationed in the building 24/7 in case the current system fails. The D-200 Board of Education approved applying to the State Board of Education for permission to use life safety funds for the estimated $70,000 project. In other business at its May 5 meeting, the board approved about $330,700 in site improvements to seven school buildings this summer, much of it sidewalk replacement. Landmark Contractors of Huntley will do the work.
unintentional smoke detector activation, no fire; engine, truck, shift commander 10:45 a.m. – 1800 block of Lake Shore Drive, unintentional detector activation, no fire; shift commander, engine, truck, ambulance 4:34 p.m. – West Grant Highway and Johnson Road, Marengo, assist police or other agency; ambulance
May 13
6:49 p.m. – Washington Street and U.S. 14, authorized controlled burning; engine, shift commander, Kabota
Cars, forklift among sale of city’s surplus inventory Are you looking for a forklift? How about a used 2011 Ford Crown Victoria that was once a police car? Those are among the items the Woodstock City Council has declared to be surplus property to be sold, donated, recycled, or otherwise
Continued from Page 1
59 applicants (a 60th arrived last week and has not been processed) showed a variety of businesses: 33 service-based, 14 restaurants or bars, nine retailers, and three manufacturers.
Really small businesses
Downtown businesses have received more than half of the loans (31), while 11 do business along Route 47, seven in industrial parks, six home-based, and two on U.S. 14. Applications show they have been in business an average of about 10½ years, nine of those in Woodstock. And they truly are small businesses, averaging fewer than five employees each. Before the pandemic hit, the first 58 businesses to apply had 123 full-time employees, an average of 2.12. Their 157 part-time employees provided an
although the price was 5.8 percent higher than Morton charged last year.
Library has transition plan to start offering services
The Woodstock Public Library plans to begin its book drop-off service this week and resume curbside delivery of materials beginning June 1. The library board discussed the average of 2.7. Amid the coronavirus outbreak, a third of full-timers were laid off, along with almost 39 percent of part-timers. Some of the businesses are so small – home-based, mom-and-pop enterprises – that Anderson admitted he was unfamiliar with some of them that were “operating out of the limelight” before they applied for a loan. They’re also intensely local: 73 percent of their employees live in Woodstock, and 92 percent inside McHenry County.
Applications slowing
The city issued checks to 26 businesses within two weeks of the program’s approval. Those were listed in the April 15 edition of The Independent. Since then, loans have been made to
schedule at its meeting last week, according to library Director Nick Weber. “Beyond that, it all pretty tentative at this point,” Weber said. After the city closed the library because of coronavirus concerns, the library offered pickup service until the statewide “shelter in place” order directed most people to stay home – including library employees. between four and 11 businesses each week until last week, when only one application was received. Two were submitted the week before. The 27 recipients since the first batch of checks are Cherry Tree Inn, Chilly Willie’s, Copy Express, Ehrke’s Used Appliances and More, Dr. John Evans, D.D.S., E.W. Training, Flores Banquets, Frawley LED, J.C. Heavy Equipment Repair & Welding, Jimmy’s Music, JTW Marketing, The Kare Group, Liquid Blues, Midas Touch Towing, Nachis Soccer Club, Oliver’s Bar and Grill, ProCleaners Restoration & Cleaning Services, Frank A. Quattino & Associates, Rea-7 Trucking, Red Iron Tavern, Serien Manufacturing, ShadowView Brewing, Sofie’s Wine & Whiskey Lounge, Unique Nails, VNL Floors & More, Walter’s P Masonry Inc., and Winestock.
SPRING REFRESH
for your home
IT’S NOT TOO LATE... YOUR COMMUNITY NEEDS YOU TO BE COUNTED! GO TO WWW.2020CENSUS.GOV AND SIGN IN TODAY! QUICK • EASY • CONFIDENTIAL
Hours: Mon-Thurs 10-6, Fri 10-5, Sat 10-4 Sundays by appointment only Contractors Welcome! 2104 S. Eastwood Drive (Rt. 47) Woodstock, IL 815-334-5985
NEWS
emailing Anderson, ganderson@woodstockil.gov. Of the six businesses that were denied loans, some were not located in Woodstock, Anderson said, and others didn’t meet the required level of $50,000 annual gross revenue. “That’s already a pretty low threshold,” he said. “Any lower than that and it’s a good bet we’re not going to get our money back.” Loan terms are favorable: No payments or accrued interest for the first year, then three years for repayment at 3 percent. First payment will be due May 1, 2021. Anderson’s breakdown of the first
disposed of. Also on the list are at 2014 Ford Taurus, a Wagner paint sprayer, a thermal arc plasma cutter, and a Wacker concrete vibrator. The city manager’s office will handle the disposal. In other business at the council’s May 5 meeting, Morton Salt of Chicago was awarded a contract for icecontrol salt for winter at $69.35 a ton. Morton was the lowest of four bidders,
May 20-26, 2020
LOANS
5 THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
IN BRIEF
OPINION
May 20-26, 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
Competing interests, personal choices
Several shirtless young men crowded around the free-throw line Friday on the basketball court of a neighborhood park in Woodstock. Testing the invincibility of their youth, the teens ignored the recent public norms of masks and social distancing for a friendly game of roundball on a sunny, mid-70s afternoon. Being young and healthy, maybe they liked their odds of avoiding – or fighting off – the novel coronavirus that has brought social life and team sports to a near standstill across Illinois and the U.S. The odds are in their favor – though maybe not for any grandparents they visit. Of 1,175 confirmed cases in McHenry County as of Sunday, only about one-half of 1 percent were people under 20. Among the 61 countywide deaths from COVID-19, 54 were people 60 or older; only one was someone under 40. Of those deaths, 77 percent were people who lived or worked in long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes and specialized group homes. Eighteen of the deaths involved residents or staff at two such facilities in Woodstock. Inside the Woodstock-centric 60098 ZIP code, those two homes alone – Crossroads Care Center and Sheltered Village – account for 109 of 287 confirmed cases of the virus. So, maybe those young basketball players had nothing to worry about themselves. And it might not be long before the kids don’t have to worry about violating any shelter-in-place order as the state sits in Phase 2 of Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s four-region, five-phase plan for recovery as infections wane. Woodstock is part of a well-documented effort by the county’s Council of Governments to convince the governor that McHenry County should not be included with Chicago in the Northeast Region as the state loosens restriction on businesses and social activities. But the city of Chicago has also asked for special consideration, as has an 11-county Peoria-Bloomington axis, and who knows who else sees their circumstances as unique. To avoid a patchwork of plans around the state, the governor, who so far has operated with
EDITORIAL CARTOON BY LUKE GOINS
Looks like the Pritzker saw his shadow! Six more weeks of quarantine it is! executive fiat, probably will stall approval of any such exceptions to his Restore Illinois blueprint. More likely, he will hope to move the entire state into a more permissible Phase 3 by the end of May and perhaps even Phase 4 by July. Complicating things this week for the governor will be the convening of the Illinois General Assembly, which might want some legislative input into the state’s recovery plan. Even if the Democratic majority endorses the plan, legislative Republicans clearly see defiance as a populist platform they might be able to exploit to improve their numbers in the Nov. 3 election. Just look at Wisconsin, where a Democratic executive’s edicts have been thwarted by a Republican legislature and judiciary.
While polls indicate a large majority of people are fine with stay-at-home orders during the pandemic as an imperative in a health crisis, the harm they cause to the economy and to individual businesses (their owners, employees, and communities) has led to a significant backlash among people who find themselves comfortable with a reasonable risk of infection and an acceptable level of casualties among the public. None of us has been through anything like this, so we all – the governor included – are dealing with this as best we can. There are no easy answers that satisfy both primary competing factors: public health and economic stability. Let us hope we are all making the right choices. History will let us know.
» YOUR VIEW
A Memorial Day parade, but no Square ceremony
Once again, the Woodstock V.F.W 5040 Post and Auxiliary are organizing the annual Memorial Day ceremonies. Due to the Pandemic, there will be no ceremony on the Square. There will be a parade of vehicles
around town. Everyone will stay in their vehicles for social-distance purposes. Cars and trucks can be decorated to honor our deceased veterans. The parade will kickoff from the parking lots of Northwood schools across from the Courthouse at 11 a.m. Monday, May 25. The parade route is as follows:
Route 47 to Locust Street, which turns into Clay Street and proceeds up Clay to Church Street and left onto Main Street onto the Woodstock Square and out West Jackson Street to Emricson Park. It will turn into the park by Woodstock Water Works and proceed through the park and exit on South Street and disband.
Any organizations or businesses that would like to participate can call Chris Gehrke, parade chairman, at 815-338-3533 and Press #1 to leave a message in the general mailbox. Chris Gehrke Woodstock
Continued on Next page
There is no freedom without responsibility
The Preamble to the U.S. Constitution of the United States reads: “We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice,insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare,and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.” Seven articles and 27 amendments are the laws by which we as Americans live. Our constitution has been a work in progress, so to speak, but as we have evolved as a people, we do understand and appreciate the changes, such as, “There is no freedom without
responsibility.” As a world and as a country, we are facing a virus we cannot see or touch. This virus has been deadly. Until a vaccine is developed to make the world safe, we stay home, self-distance, and follow the science. There is one other powerful tool that we can use that we cannot see or touch. It is love. Send love out to everyone and surround this virus with love until a vaccine is found. It is easy to complain; it is more difficult to love and work for justice. As Joshua Knobe, a Yale experimental psychologist, answered when asked, in a multi-universe, what the most important thing for us to know is, he said, “Be kind.” Once we have learned the lessons, let’s not forget them. Donna Davis Woodstock
Memorial Day ceremony in the Park in the Square and the parade down West Jackson Street to Oakland and Calvary cemeteries. There the honor guard that led the parade would fire a gun salute to honor and mourn military personnel who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Gathering in that fashion isn’t possible this year. But, thanks to Chris Gehrke and the men and women of VWF Post 5040 and its Auxiliary, Woodstock will pause to remember. A parade of cars will form by 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 25, at Northwood Middle School. At 11 the parade will make its way to the Square on Route 47 and then Clay Street. There are two ways to participate: watch from your porch (adhering to social distancing) or decorate your car and join the parade. Memorial Day signals the start of summer in northern Illinois. Though many communitywide summer events have been canceled, I’m hearing a few others may happen thanks to creative thinking on the part of planners. The Independent will keep you informed about COVID and publish information about what’s happening. If you aren’t yet a subscriber, you can be. Take advantage of the subscription special on Page 8. Go to thewoodstockindependent. com and join us on Facebook and Instagram. Cheryl Wormley is publisher of The Woodstock Independent. Her email address is c.wormley@thewoodstockindependent.com
» OUR POLICY • We welcome letters of general interest to the community. • We reserve the right to edit for clarity, content, and length.
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
jen@thewoodstockindependent.com
ADVERTISING
Katy O’Brien
katy@thewoodstockindependent.com
ADMINISTRATION/SUBSCRIPTIONS
McDaniel
subs@thewoodstockindependent.com
COLUMNISTS
Paul Lockwood, Lisa Haderlein, Dan Chamness, Patricia Kraft, Jeff Cook PHOTOGRAPHERS
Vicky Long, Margie Paffrath, Alex Vucha CORRESPONDENTS
Tricia Carzoli, Janet Dovidio, Susan W. Murray, Megan Ivers, Lydia LaGue EDITORIAL CARTOONISTS
Jim Mansfield, Luke Goins PROOFREADER
Don Humbertson
Deadlines & contacts NOON WEDNESDAY
Press releases and photos
pr@thewoodstockindependent.com
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
news@thewoodstockindependent.com
• Please limit letters to 400 words.
NOON THURSDAY
• Longer submissions may be considered for a guest column.
ads@thewoodstockindependent.com
• Letters must be signed and include the writer’s address and a telephone number, which will be used for verification purposes only. It will not be published. • Email letters to pr@thewoodstock independent.com or mail or drop them off at our office, 671 E. Calhoun St., Woodstock, IL 60098.
Rebecca
Display advertising NOON FRIDAY
Legal notices
subs@thewoodstockindependent.com
Classified Ads
classifieds@thewoodstockindependent.com
OPINION
Continued from Previous page
businesses to put sunshine in the lives of others. Last week, I fumed about McHenry County and Woodstock being grouped with Chicago and Cheryl Cook County in Wormley Gov. J.B. Pritker’s Declarations Restore Illinois plan. Though our city and county officials have been lobbying to have us judged on our own county statistics, to date, there’s no change. The hope, of course, is that the collective we of McHenry County will see a lifting of the stay-at-home restrictions as soon as the health and safety of all of us warrants that action. There was a positive in my column last week – announcing The Independent’s plan to share some of our ink with children. The first results of that effort are published on Page 24. I’m hoping for many more. Now, back to it being a rainy Sunday afternoon. How I wish the rain would wash away COVID-19. But you and I know that’s not going to happen. Thankfully, some people are not letting COVID-19 have the last say. They are being creative and inventive. I already mentioned Marian’s decision to hold individual graduations over three days. It will be different from previous years, and it will be a memorable celebration. Usually this time of year, Woodstock would be preparing for our annual
671 E. Calhoun St. • Woodstock, IL 60098 Phone: 815-338-8040 www.thewoodstockindependent.com
7
May 20-26, 2020
It’s pouring down rain as I write on Sunday afternoon. Yes, I missed my noon Friday deadline again. I tried. I really did, but I was at a loss of what to write. Often, when I don’t have an idea for a column, I look back on what I’ve written at the same time the year before. If that doesn’t spur some creativity, I look at what I’ve written the past couple of weeks. The third week of May last year and the year before, and for many years before, I wrote to our town’s high school graduates. Those columns fell between the commencement ceremonies at Woodstock and Woodstock North high schools the previous weekend and Marian Central Catholic High School’s upcoming graduation. As I write, I don’t know when or in what form graduations will take place for WHS and WNHS. Marian plans individual graduations at the school May 26 to 28. So, for now, I choose to hold off writing to the seniors. As for what I’ve written the past several weeks, it’s been responses to COVID-19 in one form or another. Eight weeks of various takes on one thing – even a pandemic – seems way too much. I started very optimistically with “This too shall pass,” followed by “We can do this.” My positive spin in week three, “It’s a different Groundhog Day,” was a take off on the Jeep Super Bowl commercial. For several weeks, I pounded #Woodstock4all, emphasizing positive responses and The Independent going shoulder-to-shoulder with the city, groups, and other
Woodstock
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
COVID calls for creative thinking
The
I NDEPENDENT
CALLING ALL CHILDREN
Class of
#woodstock4all
20 20
Tell us what you think about the Corona Lockdown
May 20-26, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
8
SCHOOLS
Write letters, poems, journal entries or whatever Email to woodstock4all@ thewoodstockindependent.com or mail to 671 E. Calhoun St. Include your first name and your age and a photo of yourself if you would like that in the paper, too.
Caleb S. Labude
Graduating with honors from Creighton University - Heider School of Business Majored in Finance and Economics Caleb was on the Dean’s List every semester and made the Dean’s Honor Roll for social responsibility. He accepted an offer as a Private Capital Manager starting in May 2020.
815-338-8040
Caleb is a 2016 graduate of Woodstock North High School. The
Woodstock
The Labude Family: HP, Kathleen Scott Offord and Hannah
I NDEPENDENT The
Woodstock
B1G1 SPECIAL OFFER!
I NDEPENDENT Woodstock I NDEPENDENT City, state agree: Stay home! I NDEPENDENT Council moves to help business March 25-31, 2020
The
Woodstock
April 1-7, 2020
The
Published every Wednesday | Est. 1987 | Serving Woodstock, Wonder Lake and Bull Valley, Ill. | www.thewoodstockindependent.com | $1.00
April 8-14, 2020
Published every Wednesday | Est. 1987 | Serving Woodstock, Wonder Lake and Bull Valley, Ill. | www.thewoodstockindependent.com | $1.00
Published every Wednesday | Est. 1987 | Serving Woodstock, Wonder Lake and Bull Valley, Ill. | www.thewoodstockindependent.com | $1.00
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
SUBSCRIBE TODAY!
Woodstock life adjusts to crisis
LARRY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
MARKETPLACE Local restaurants cleaning, cooking for carry-out orders PAGE 11
SCHOOLS
PAGE 9
High school athletic directors await word on spring sports
PAGE 22
INDEX OpiniOn SchOOlS Marketplace
6 9 11
cOMMunity
13
calendar
16
claSSified
18
puzzleS
20
public nOticeS
21
SpOrtS
22
The Woodstock Independent
ANSWERING THE CALL
masks for coronavirus needs
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
without visit to doctor’s office
BUY A 1-YEAR SUBSCRIPTION
GET A FREE 1-YEAR GIFT SUBSCRIPTION FOR A new subscriber PAGE 12
4
OpiniOn
6
schOOls
9
a&e
10
Marketplace
12
cOMMunity
14
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
INDEX
had been canceled until May 8, not mid-April as was hoped. In a posting by Director Daniel
PAGE 10
SCHOOLS
PAGE 10
Obituaries
See Page that 3 programming lastBUSINESS, week to reflect
MARKETPLACE
With orders to stay home, you have lots of time to read
MARKETPLACE
City Council continues to expand aid program for businesses
DOING THE ‘Telehealth’ RIGHT THINGS gets patients seen
PAGE 14
A&E
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
INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI
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
PAGE 8
A&E
After event cancellations, Opera House rescheduling
PAGE 9
INDEX
Obituaries
4
OpiniOn
6
schOOls
8
a&e
9
INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER Marketplace 10
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.
SUBSCRIBE:
classified
18
puzzles
20
public nOtices
21
spOrts
22
“Shelter in place” doesn’t mean you can’t get out for a walk – and still practice “social distancing” during cOMMunity 12 the coronavirus crisis. These folks headed to Emricson Park last week during the mild spring weather. calendar
16
classified
18
puzzles
20
INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI
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, about $300,000 a year to more street 671 E.facing Calhoun St., than 200 on, I garnered the support of local See ELECTION, Pagegenerate 4 Plans for“segments” 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
Schools
9
Different kind of school year ends in subdued fashion for District 200
May 20-26, 2020
By Tricia Carzoli
NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
SCHOOLS
Woodstock School District 200 is wrapping up another academic year, but students and faculty are ending on a very different note than the one on which they began. As teachers emptied their classrooms filled with the promise of dances, proms, presentations, and promotion ceremonies, they packed up dreams along with bulletin boards, books, projects, and papers. The PTO at Westwood Elementary School organized a car parade for teachers as they collected their belongings and headed home for the summer. Students have also been packing up their year in a different way. Kevin Lyons, D-200’s director of communications, said the district assigned specific times for students to pick up their belongings – belongings that were carefully packed for them. “The custodial staff went through lockers and desks,” Lyons explained, “and the students’ [belongings] were collected in bags with their names on them. I have to credit them; that must have been a difficult job.” Creekside Middle School Principal Michael Wheately said it was a big job. “The custodial staff collected belongings from the students’ main lockers and P.E. lockers as well as medicines and music belongings,” he said. Each family was assigned a specific hour to drive by to pick up those items. Schools, booster clubs and PTOs also put signs in students’ yards to celebrate spring sports that were not to happen, graduations and promotions that would not be as expected, and school spirit as the students navigated a very different learning experience. Eighth-grader Charlie Baker enjoyed the sign placed in his yard. “It’s really sad that we don’t get to celebrate the end of our eighth-grade year at school,” he said, “but the sign made me happy because the teachers are still thinking about us.” Martha Baker, a fifth-grader, said she was surprised to see her Spanish
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
Out Like a Lamb
IN DEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI
Assistant principal Francesca Favero grabs a bag to deliver for the parent of a Creekside Middle School student to pick up. Custodial staff collected belongings from each student’s main locker and P.E. locker as well as medicines and music belongings. teacher, Olga Veiga, putting a sign in the yard. “But it made me so happy to see it,” Martha said, “and the notes that my teachers wrote on the back.”
Doing things virtually
Creekside Middle School will host a virtual promotion ceremony for its eighth-grade students, while the school is also hosting a virtual tour for incoming sixth-grade students. Wheatley feels the digital platform unifies the community. “It has brought us together,” he said. “That is what we are hoping to accomplish through a virtual promotion as well.” Wheatley designed a program that will be released on YouTube as a premier video this week. It includes his end-of-the-year speech as well as the reading of names of all graduates, along with videos that Creekside eighth-graders submitted to share their memories and shout-outs to faculty and staff. The presentation will
include awards, and Wheatley will also put signs in students’ yards just before the ceremony, which will premiere at 7 p.m. May 20. Lyons said both Woodstock High School and Woodstock North High School were committed to attempting to host a graduation ceremony. The graduates were scheduled to pick up their caps and gowns on Wednesday in alternating time slots. “I think we’d like to host an in-person ceremony,” Lyons said. “Of course, we have to see if it is possible, and what that would look like, but that is our first choice.”
Different summer ahead
On another note, summer school will not look the same. Most classes – both remedial and enrichment – will be held virtually. Driver’s education currently is slated to be held in July with approval of the state in hopes that students will be able to take behindthe-wheel instruction. Students have until May 21 to
complete assignments before the school knows who might be taking summer school courses to complete the work from spring term. Lyons said both teachers and staff had worked hard to ease the transition to eLearning and that teachers had checked in with students and parents through email on multiple occasions to let them know about missing classwork. “While we don’t have the exact numbers yet, a small number of students who had limited participation in eLearning will be asked to attend a virtual, flexible, eight-week remedial summer session,” Lyons explained. “This isn’t a punishment; it’s a building block for the road ahead. The alternative would be giving up on these students, which is something we refuse to do.” Classes at the middle school will be aimed at supporting students who need additional exposure to skills See SCHOOLS, Page 10
SCHOOLS
May 20-26, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
10
IN BRIEF
SCHOOLS
Virtual commencement recognizes MCC grads
Continued from Page 9
in literacy, math, science, or social studies to prepare for the following grade level. The high school session is offered to assist students who need to complete work required to earn credits toward graduation. George Oslovich, director of information services, said Chromebooks would not be collected from students who were returning to the district. For those changing districts or who are graduating, there will be a collection date to be announced later. Lyons was quick to say that, while this was not the way teachers and students wanted to end the year, the faculty and staff of D-200 had worked hard to make this year the best it could be, and they look forward to seeing their students in the fall. Alex Baker, an alternative education teacher at WHS, said everyone made the best of a difficult situation. “The end of the school year is usually a celebration for teachers and students,” Baker said, “and there was definitely an element of that missing this year. But it also made me feel proud looking back at the way our staff and students navigated a really challenging situation.”
IN DEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI
Matthew and Jamie Weger brought their family to celebrate eighth-graders at Creekside Middle School with a send-off parade in the school parking lot. Matt is a special education resource teacher, and Jamie teaches third grade.
STUDENT OF THE WEEK
THANK YOU TO OUR STUDENT OF THE WEEK SPONSOR!
We look forward to sponsoring future students! 222 Church St., Woodstock, IL 815-337-6051 aurora.edu/woodstock
DISCOVER WHAT MATTERS. AND BUILD YOUR LIFE AROUND IT.
JJ&&JJ
More than 500 graduates in the spring class of 2020 were recognized Saturday during a virtual commencement ceremony at McHenry County College. The pre-recorded virtual ceremony is available to watch at mchenry.edu/ graduation. Of this spring’s graduates, more than 150 earned honors or high honors with a grade-point average of 3.50 or greater. The students represent nearly 30 different degrees and more than 20 certificates, with Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, Basic Nursing Assistant Certificate, and Illinois General Education Core Curriculum Credentials producing the most graduates. This marked a different kind of ceremony for the college, which has been conducting classes in an online-only format since the end of March as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. All spring 2020 graduates are also invited to walk in the December 2020 commencement ceremony. For more information, email Linda Christopher at lchristopher@mchenry. edu or call 815-479-7547.
815-648-1489 815-648-1489
Heating, Cooling Heating, Cooling and Electrical and Electrical Call about about our Call 00 air sanitizing sanitizing air system that system removes 99% removes of viruses, viruses, of bacteria and bacteria expires allergens allergens
$89
A/C Tune-Up 6-30-2020
Residential and Commercial Residential and Commercial Licensed and and Insured Insured Licensed 24-Hour Emergency Emergency 24-Hour All makes and Models We service All makes and Models We service All makes and Models
A&E
11 THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
FIXING UP THE HOME SHELTER WHILE IN PLACE
May 20-26, 2020
By Susan W. Murray
NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
“Better than New: Lessons I’ve Learned from Saving Old Homes (and How They Saved Me)” by Nicole Curtis Curtis is the host of HGTV’s “Rehab Addict,” which follows Curtis as she restores old homes in Minneapolis and Detroit. No granite countertops or painted wood for her; Curtis puts soapstone and butcher block in the kitchen and strips paint off every wood surface she meets. Her book is a combination memoir and review of some of the homes she’s rehabbed for her show. Available as an ebook from the Woodstock Public Library or to order in print from Read Between the Lynes.
“Home: The Best of The New York Times Book Section: The Way We Live Now” by Noel Millea From the best stories and photos in The New York Times, these are one-of-a-kind homes, encompassing apartments to cottages to mansions. More to look at than to emulate, each home is its own little world of fabulous design. Available to order in print from Read Between the Lynes.
“Modern Farmhouse Style: 250+ Ways to Harmonize Rustic Charm with Contemporary Living” by Country Home magazine The farmhouse style is all the rage, but in a streamlined version with
Continued on Next page
PHOTO COURTESY OF JEEP BRANDS
When shooting scenes for a Super Bowl commercial in January, “We never turned the camera off,” advertising executive Randy Ortiz said. The extra footage came in handy when Jeep produced three “safety first” social media messages during the pandemic.
‘Hope, solidarity, optimism’
With pandemic messages, Woodstock makes Groundhog Day news … again. By Tricia Carzoli
NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
Jeep Brand advertising executive Randy Ortiz, the man behind the No. 1-rated TV commercial during the Super Bowl, said his team had been looking at ways to reach social media followers during the coronavirus pandemic. “We wanted to convey the message of stay home, stay safe, stay healthy,” he said, “but we also wanted to bring some comic relief.” When Jeep Brand team members shared that they were beginning to feel as though they were living the same day over and over again, Ortiz and Olivier Francois, chief marketing officer for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, saw an ad campaign unfolding, and it involved Woodstock. FCA’s campaign uses the umbrella hashtag #StayAtHome, while each of the company’s brands has its own hashtag. All hashtags emphasize the
importance of flattening the COVID-19 curve. Ortiz and Francois consulted with actor/comedian Bill Murray, who offered some creative direction. Jeep Brand was assigned #StayOffTheRoad, a brand born out of adversity during World War II and standing for adventure. It asks owners to stay at home, emphasizing the seriousness of the pandemic. Francois reached out to Murray, who was on board and offered creative input – including the message, safety first. “We want to send a message of hope, solidarity, optimism to everyone who is doing their part to combat the spread of the virus,” Francois said.
Outtakes come in handy
With a little help from Murray, the Cherry Tree Inn, and Richardson’s Adventure Farm, Jeep Brand’s new campaign features the ultimate recurring day.
Ortiz explained that he, Francois, and Murray went through footage to look for clips from the commercial shoot that could be used to support the new message as well as the same day and dream themes. Groundhog Day aficionados will recognize iconic scenes, including the alarm clock at the Pennsylvanian Hotel, Poppy the groundhog peeking out of the orange Jeep Gladiator, the radio DJs waking Murray with, “Rise and shine campers,” and of course, the steps of the Cherry Tree Inn. “Production is shut down all over,” Ortiz said. “And we wouldn’t jeopardize anyone’s safety. We went through the film and found pieces that fit.” Footage of Murray crawling back into bed and returning to the Cherry Tree Inn was all part of the treasure trove from the late January filming. “We never turned the camera off,” Ortiz said “We kept it rolling. Bill Murray likes to improvise behind the
Please see JEEP Page 12
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Have you resorted to rearranging the furniture yet? Maybe more than once? The busiest places in town these days are the lumber yard, the home improvement stores, and the landscape companies. While we’re staying home, a lot of us are fixing, updating, and reworking our living spaces. For this week’s book recommendations, The Woodstock Independent offers five titles that help us scratch that interior design itch.
May 20-26, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
12
D-200
Musicians
of the Month
Follow us at: www.d200MusicBoosters.org Facebook: D200 Music Boosters • Twitter @d200mboosters
TJ Schwerzler
Woodstock High School
Northern Illinois University Majoring in Computer Science and playing his Trumpet in marching band and concert band
Teagan Sailor ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Woodstock High School
Oakland University Majoring in Social Science, playing Flute
PHOTO COURTESY OF JEEP BRANDS
Jeep gets additional mileage out of Bill Murray by spinning a social media safety message out of Groundhog Day commercial footage.
JEEP
Continued from Page 11
Fiona Frawley
Woodstock High School
Lawrence University Majoring in Music Education, playing the String Bass
Kaley Beckman
Woodstock High School Augustana College Choir
Jared Ritter
Woodstock North High School
Majoring in Musical Theatre and General Music at Southeast Missouri State University
Robyn Brown
Woodstock North High School
Majoring in Biomedical Science on the path of going to PA school, Minoring in General Music and (hopefully) Spanish, Central Michigan University
camera, and we didn’t want to lose any of that.”
Woodstock supportive
The strategy proved resourceful as Jeep was able to roll out three short social videos, all featuring the Groundhog Day theme, Murray, the new Jeep Gladiator, and the important message of staying home. “Most of the work you will see ... is rich with emotion, comfort, and resilience,” Francois said. “I do think, however, that we should not forget about the importance of a good smile or a good laugh, too, as it joins people together and offers a feeling of normalcy or relief in such unprecedented times. So, you are going to see some additional content coming from us that Continued from Previous Page
clean lines and industrial accents. Photos take the reader room-byroom through the house with ideas for choosing a statement piece, updating a tired piece of furniture, and arranging collections of loved items. Available to order in print from Read Between the Lynes.
“Styled: Secrets to Arranging Rooms, from Tabletops to Bookshelves” by Emily Henderson This colorful, fun guide begins with a quiz to help you figure out your preferred style – or styles – and then explains how to pare down what you have to what you truly love. Once
reflects that spirit as well.” Ortiz said authenticity was one of the “core pillars” of the Jeep Brand. “When we filmed the original commercial, that was something we focused on … the record label, the location,” he said. Ortiz reminisced about the time spent on the Square. “We were impressed with the support Woodstock gave us,” he said. “The filming experience was amazing. Everyone was supportive. We were glad we were able to use the authentic assets [of Woodstock] in our filming.” The three spots can be found on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. “Our goal,” Francois said, “… is to encourage all Americans whose current conditions allow them to stay off the road to now do so, so that we can get back on it that much sooner.”
those pieces are identified, Henderson explains how to best arrange items to make attractive and inviting spaces. Available to order in print from Read Between the Lynes.
“Vintage Living: Creating a Beautiful Home with Treasured Items from the Past” by Bob Richter With an array of vintage shops in Woodstock, interest in finding and incorporating distinctive objects from the past is high. In addition to tips on how to group and highlight vintage items in the home, Richter advises the best places to score finds. Available to order in print from Read Between the Lynes.
Marketplace
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
By Susan W. Murray
NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
Wendy Legare, who co-owns Apple Creek Flowers with Lynn Nattress, said that the week leading up to Mother’s Day was “insanely busy and good.” With out-of-town family members unable to visit Mom, the florist shop’s business was up by 300 or 400 percent over last year, Nattress said. The pair brought back their eight furloughed employees for the week to drive all over the county, delivering plants and bouquets. “Now,” Legare said, “it’s crickets.” Mother’s Day aside, Apple Creek’s business is down 90 percent, the owners reported. “Most of our business is weddings,” Legare said. “Most have been pushed back to later dates, even next year. “You can’t survive off $50 ‘happy birthday’ arrangements,” she added. Still, Legare and Nattress remain upbeat. They applied for and received local and state assistance and were approved for a federal paycheck protection loan, money they anticipate using in the fall when, they hope, weddings will begin again. “We’re figuring out how to make it through with the help that has been given to us,” Nattress said. “We’re a strong company,” Legare said. “we plan on being here. We’ll be there for our brides.”
Unsettled local picture
Krista Coltrin is the Economic Development coordinator for the city of Woodstock. That office is monitoring the pulse of local businesses during the pandemic. “It’s a very mixed bag,” she said. While orders have slowed down a bit, Coltrin said, most local manufacturers seem to be doing well, have taken advantage of a loan from the federal Paycheck Protection Program, are still in production, have some cash flow, and have retained their employees. Likewise, plumbers, electricians, and HVAC systems installers and technicians are still working. The picture is “not as rosy” for restaurants, shops, and service providers, Coltrin said. The PPP doesn’t make as much sense for businesses that might
MARKETPLACE
■ Residence at 234 Joseph St., Woodstock, was sold by Felipe De Avila, Belvidere, to Esther MondragonGonzalez, Woodstock, for $199,900. ■ Residence at 3816 Meadow Lane, Wonder Lake, was sold by Kelley A. Penkuhn, Marengo, to Kenneth Karkau, Wonder Lake, for $248,000. ■ Residence at 13116 Perkins Road, Woodstock, was sold by Kyle Rush, Antioch, to Noe Tapia Arias, Woodstock, for $134,000. ■ Residence at 2405 Fairview Circle, Woodstock, was sold by D.R. Horton, Inc.-Midwest, Vernon Hills, to Michael S. Steiler, Woodstock, for $319,000. ■ Residence at 677 Pleasant St., Woodstock, was sold by 647 MD Investments LLC, Poplar Grove, to Stacy J. Cameron, Woodstock, for $185,000. ■ Residence at 242 Wild Meadow Lane, Woodstock, was sold by Heinz H. Kaul, Huntley, to Nancy Parquette, Woodstock, for $147,500. ■ Residence at 1611 Bull Valley Drive, Woodstock, was sold by The Denise M. Eesley Revocable Trust, Chicago, to Richard Pope, Woodstock, for $450,000. ■ Residence at 456 Borden St., Woodstock, was sold by Sara B. Lemke, Chicago, to Pamela S. Delaney, Woodstock, for $123,000. ■ Residence at 603 Silver Creek Road, Woodstock, was sold by Jennifer L. Anderson, Cary, to Jeremy T. Dutton, Woodstock, for $121.000. ■ Residence at 1920 Quail Court, Woodstock, was sold by The Cencula Living Trust, Woodstock, to Adriana Perez, Woodstock, for $197,500.
Federal, local programs provide some financial assistance
May 20-26, 2020
Transactions filed in the McHenry County Recorder’s Office from April 20 to 21.
‘Trying time’ for small businesses
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS
13
INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI
The florist shop on Throop Street saw an immediate drop-off in business when the statewide stay-at-home order was implemented and had to furlough its eight employees. Mother’s Day provided a bright spot, but recovery awaits the resumption of weddings, which represent most of Apple Creek’s business. not be back to full employment by the June 30 deadline. If the deadline is missed, the eight-week payroll grant becomes a loan that must be paid back. “It’s a trying time right now,” Coltrin said.
‘A long road back’
When the stay-at-home order took effect near the end of March, Copy Express owner Jim O’Leary went to work by himself, kept the door locked, and fulfilled phone and email orders. “I learned a lot about what my employees do for me,” O’Leary said. After two weeks, O’Leary said, “it became obvious that the work we do is for some services that are essential – healthcare, city government, and
manufacturers.” O’Leary, who normally employs a staff of seven, brought part of his crew back full time and others on an asneeded basis. He took advantage of an emergency small business loan from the city of Woodstock and obtained federal PPP funds. “It was all appreciated,” he said. O’Leary, who estimates that his business is down by half, figures that a return to something close to where business was a year ago will be gradual. “I expect it will be a long road back,” O’Leary said. Even in the midst of a pandemic, some businesses prosper. Please see BUSINESS Page 14
May 20-26, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
14
BUSINESS
Continued from Page 13
Woodstock Lumber has held onto all 15 of its employees and is “busier than hell,” company President Mark Kammermeier said. “Everybody’s at home, looking at the stuff they want to fix,” Kammermeier said. People are building decks and remodeling their kitchens, he said. “They’re buying everything.” And from what Kammermeier sees in sales, construction of new homes continues.
Thriving despite it
Similarly, Todd Manke of Cal and Shan’s Landscape and Design said his business was up 40 percent and he had hired two new employees. The company designs and installs brick and concrete patios, driveways, and walkways, along with putting in retaining walls, drainage, lighting, and plantings. “I’ve never seen this volume of people wanting work done,” Manke said. Manke takes that as a sign people are confident the economy will recover. “I’m the last person people would call if they were stressed or worried,” Manke said. For flourishing businesses, the rub is knowing that many other local
businesses are teetering. In a recent poll by the Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce, 47 percent of local business owners were unable to project how long they could keep going. “We feel extremely bad for our customers who had to shut their businesses down,” Kammermeier said.
Needing community support
Assistance is coming from several directions. Chamber President Danielle Gulli said her organization was working with U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood on legislation for a six-month extension of the period businesses have to restore full-time employment under the PPP’s loan-forgiveness provision. The city’s Economic Development Office is “pointing people to resources they need to stay afloat” and helping businesses devise a “collective reopening strategy,” Coltrin said. Local business owners are grateful to their customers who get takeout from restaurants, place orders for curbside pickup from shops, and are buying gift cards to use later. “The people of Woodstock have been great in rallying behind the businesses,” Gulli said. Apple Creek’s Legare puts it more simply. “Woodstock has been wonderful,” she said.
IN BRIEF
Revolving loan will help retailer set up on Square
Online retailer Little Bow Peeps Shop will get $60,000 from the city’s revolving loan program to establish a physical location at 104 Cass St. and to reopen The Thoughtfulness Shop there. The Woodstock City Council, in its meeting May 5, approved the sevenyear loan for owners Janice and Craig Wilcox. The loan carries a 2 percent interest rate with payments on the loan scheduled to begin Aug. 1. In other business, the council waived the city’s moratorium on a Class E-5V liquor and video gambling licenses to allow an application from Arvindbhai Patel, new owner of Best Western Hotel, 990 Lake Ave. The waiver allows Patel to apply for the licenses with no guarantee of approval.
Mercyhealth resumes deferred appointments
services are being resumed “After weeks of caring for COVID-19 positive patients under our new protocols, we have shown our ability to isolate and treat positive patients without putting others at risk,” the release said. Patients were urged to observe social distancing and hand washing. “Mercyhealth has taken extra precautions to make hospital and/or clinic visits safe,” the release said. People are urged to visit mercyhealth.com as they begin to reschedule procedures and appointments at a Mercyhealth medical facility.
City helps to improve façade of ex-jewelry store
Façade improvements of more than $10,500 will get up to $5,000 from a city grant to improve the front of the former Ray Wolfe Jewelers building, 216 Main St. Woodstock City Council members approved the grant from tax increment financing funds, which support façade improvement projects. Building owner Peter Bozic had sought $5,312, about half of the estimate for painting and awning replacement. The city’s façade program, funded by the tax increment financing district, limits grants to 50 percent of a project’s cost.
MARKETPLACE
SUN’S OUT....PROMOTE OUT....PROMOTE YOUR SUMMER SALES WITH AN AD! Mercyhealth is now rescheduling surgeries, diagnostic procedures, and clinic appointments that were postponed during the past several weeks as it prepared for a surge in COVID-19 cases. Postponements were always considered temporary, Mercyhealth said in a news release, and some deferred
GET SUMMER READY....WITH READY....WITH AN AD IN THE INDEPENDENT! REACH THE ENTIRE WOODSTOCK COMMUNITY WITH AN AD IN THE
JUNE 17TH TOTAL MARKET EDITION!
SUM FUN SPECIAL SECTION INCLUDED
Our Total Market Edition Is Like Direct Mail Advertising – Only Better! People keep it • People read it • People use it We are Woodstock - Your news, your business, your community.
Woodstock, Bull Valley & Wonder Lake Weekly print & digital editions Daily website ads Monthly print total market publications
ADVERTISING DEADLINE:
Ads designed by The Independent: JUNE 9, 2020 @ NOON
Camera-ready ads: JUNE 11, 2020 @ NOON
Jen Wilson: 815.701.9258 • jen@thewoodstockindependent.com
Katy O’Brien: 815.701.9268 • katy@thewoodstockindependent.com
75 years of Real Estate expertise in Southeastern WI and Northern IL
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
BUY OR SELL YOUR HOME WITH THE BEST.
15
May 20-26, 2020
6708 Cypress Ct | Crystal Lake, IL | $249,915
452 W South St | Woodstock, IL | $339,900
3 Beds, 2 Bath | 1,400 sqft | MLS#10554545
4 Beds, 4 Bath | 2,612 sqft | MLS#10558307
3 Beds, 1 Bath | 1,790 sqft | MLS#10704784
Listing Agent: Clancy Green | 815.382.0170
Listing Agent: Kim Keefe | 815.790.4852
Listing Agent: Jose Rey | 815.861.2757
11014 N Il Route 47 Hwy | Huntley, IL | $69,000
1501 Lamb Rd | Woodstock, IL | $649,900
526 Stewart Ave | Woodstock, IL | $179,900
Commercial Lot | MLS#10586811
Commercial | 12,000 sqft | MLS#10610914
4 Beds, 1 Bath | 1,456 sqft
Listing Agent: Jose Rey | 815.861.2757
Listing Agent: C. Green | 815.382.0170 & R. Ahrens 815.482.1143
Listing Agent: Kim Keefe | 815.790.4852
W351S10279 Lake Dr | Eagle, WI | $899,700
120 Route 120 Hwy | Woodstock, IL | $19,900
4 Beds, 4 Bath | 3,200 sqft | MLS#1677806
Vacant Land | 3+ Acres | MLS#10586774
1257 Cobblestone Way, #B | Woodstock, IL | $1,275/mo Commercial | MLS#10709971
Listing Agent: Jerry Kroupa | 262.949.3618
Listing Agent: Jose Rey | 815.861.2757
Listing Agent: Clancy Green | 815.382.0170
10408 Lawrence Rd | Harvard, IL | $189,900
COMMUNITY
WE’RE OPEN! 11904 Catalpa Ln | Woodstock, IL | $2,050/mo Commercial | 3,300 sqft | MLS#10691609
As an essential business, we’re open and here to help you, while also following state and federal guidelines to keep everyone’s health and safety in mind.
Listing Agent: C. Green | 815.382.0170 & R. Ahrens 815.482.1143
815.900.2474 | KEEFEREALESTATE.COM
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
16
May 20-26, 2020
Celebrate your Grad with an ad in The Independent! 5TH GRADE • 8TH GRADE • HIGH SCHOOL • COLLEGE
Ad (this size) with color for $45 Please provide the graduate’s name, school or college, photo and message.
MARKETPLACE
Deadline: Tuesdays by Noon to be in the following week’s paper.
Let’s celebrate the class of 2020!
The
Woodstock
I NDEPENDENT
thewoodstockindependent.com
1740 WALNUT Thank-you for your staging tips, negotiation skills and great advice. Chris and Chloe
1266 BLAKELY STREET Jose was clearly motivated in helping me with his extensive knowledge and attention to details. He exuded kindness and warmth during this life changing process. Kathleen
LD
SO
LD
SO
EMAIL TO:
#woodstock4all
Jen Wilson: 815.701.9258 jen@thewoodstockindependent.com Katy O’Brien: 815.701.9268 katy@thewoodstockindependent.com
9313 BULL VALLEY ROAD Jose has been a pleasure to deal with. He definitely dots the “i” and crosses the “t.” He is profesional, thorough,trustworthy, and dependable. Mary
KEEFE REAL ESTATE KEEFEWELCOMES REAL ESTATE WELCOM
JOSE RE JY OSE RE
Keefe is thrilled to welcome Jose Rey, who has joined our team of Keefe is thrilled to welcome Jose Rey, who has joined our agents at our Woodstock office. Jose brings over 35 years of real ourWisconsin Woodstock office. Jose STREET brings over 35 year 402 BLAKELY estate experience, is dual licensed Dinagents Illinois at and and is fluent D L L experience, is dual licensed in Illinois and Wisconsin and estate of our other expert agentsa today! O one first time home buyer, SOin Spanish. Stop by to see himinSor Spanish. Stop by to see him As or one of our other expert agent I definitely appreciated Keefe Real Estate has been servicing residential, commercial and land all his help. Keefe Real Estate has been servicing residential, Jake customers throughout Northern Illinois and Southeastern Wisconsin for
commercial a customers throughout Northern Illinois and Southeastern Wisco over 75 years. over 7
KEEFE REAL ESTATE WELCOMES
JOSE REY
Visit our Woodstock office!
JOSE REY, CRS e-PRO Visit our Woodstock office! Keefe Woodstock Office 11705 Catalpa Lane Keefe Woodstock Office BROKER Woodstock, IL 60098 11705 Catalpa Lane Keefe RealLICENSED Estate has been servicing commercial & and WISCONSIN land INresidential, ILLINOIS (815) 900-2474 Woodstock, IL 60098 customers throughout Northern Illinois and Southeastern Wisconsin for 75 years. (815) 900-2474 CELL: 815.861-2757 over EMAIL: jose@joserey.com Visit our Woodstock office! K E E F E R E A L E S TAT E . C O M WEBSITE: www.joserey.com Keefe Woodstock Office 11705 Catalpa Lane K E E F E R E A L E S TAT E . C O M Woodstock, IL 60098 2019 Heartland Realtor of the Year (815) 900-2474
Keefe is thrilled to welcome Jose Rey, who has joined our team of agents at our Woodstock office. Jose brings over 35 years of real estate experience, is dual licensed in Illinois and Wisconsin and is fluent in Spanish. Stop by to see him or one of our other expert agents today!
Community
17 THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
‘They know this is a gamble’ Farmers hope for a good May for a better planting season this year
INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI
Josh and Mary Pat Sass pose with their son, Hank, 1½, in front of the corn planter and tractor. By Tricia Carzoli
NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
Farming families are hitting the fields hard during planting season, hoping to see a more productive crop than last year. Dan Volkers, McHenry County Farm Bureau manager, said farmers were reporting most of their crops were in the ground as of last week, but then the rain returned. “It looks like the local average is 75 percent planted,” he said. “However, there was a significant amount of rain this weekend, and there is quite a bit under water.” Farmers might need to re-plant, he said, depending on how long crops are beneath the standing water. Woodstock-based Sass Family Farms reported that its fields were up to 70 percent planted last week. Both Mary Pat Sass and Volkers agreed that last year was challenging. “Last year,” she said, “while we had
a two-week-longer-than-usual harvesting season, we also were unable to plant 10 percent of our fields.” This year, they find themselves a little behind where they had hoped to be, but not too far behind. “We were out of the field for nearly two weeks due to rain,” Sass said. “We’ve had some days where we couldn’t get out because of the weather and water, but are happy with where we are.” What is in the ground now and what is yet to be planted also require dynamic weather cooperation. “We are hoping for a good May,” Sass explained. “A good May would mean that most of our acres would be planted by the end of May. It would also be good if there were some showers and not a downpour and some dry, sunny weather.”
High- and low-tech farming
Sass Family Farms grows soybean and corn crops. Sass’s husband, Josh,
is currently running the corn planter while her father-in-law, Dan, runs the soybean planter. They are able to plant 24 rows of corn and 36 rows of soybeans at a time, but the technology is what boosts the efficiency of this machine. “The cab of our tractor holds more technology than the first space shuttle to the moon,” said Sass, who runs an educational blog about agriculture through her website MillenialFarmwife.com. The system keeps track of every row planted. Every one of the 24 rows of the corn planter is controlled individually and provides data on the rows. It also alerts the drivers if a row stops planting and the driver can re-plant that row wherever it stopped planting. The data can be evaluated after every season to easily determine what could be done differently in the next planting season – to better use the acreage available.
Please see FARMING Page 18
An unexpected consequence of the coronavirus is the increasing number of items arriving with postage due in residents’ mailboxes. After two parcels arrived with postage due at the Murray residence during a recent week, each costing $2.65, a little investigation was called for. Mailing of masks is largely the culprit, according to Oswald (who declined to give his last name) at the Woodstock Post Office. That’s not mass mailing; it’s mask mailing to people who have ordered them to comply with state guidelines. Because the parcels are lightweight, the senders often incorrectly assume that a stamp or two will do the trick. But the post office’s parcel rate is higher than for first class envelopes, starting at $1.81, as opposed to 55 cents for first class mail. If the sender is local, the post office will return the parcel to the sender for additional postage. If the parcel makes it through the system, the mail carrier is charged with collecting the unpaid postage from the customer. When a customer is not home, the carrier leaves a notice that a parcel is waiting at the post office. Oswald said he collected $48 in one day in postage due fees when customers came to pick up their mail. Senders are advised to use the “Click and Ship” tool on the post office’s website to determine the correct postage or to mail parcels from the self-service kiosk in the post office’s vestibule. And if you’re home when the mail comes, keep your change purse handy.
COMMUNITY
By Susan W. Murray
NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
May 20-26, 2020
Postage due? Just a part of mask mailing
hello baby!
May 20-26, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
18
INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI
Josh Sass drives the corn planter with his son, Hank, 1½, in the tractor cab as he farms land along Collins Road.
FARMING
COMMUNITY
Nicole Elizabeth Scott Born February 14, 2020 at 7:50 a.m. at Advocate Sherman Hospital in Elgin 5 lbs. 11 oz. and 19” long Proud parents are Brandon M. Scott and Jolene A. White
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! Singleton Family McDonald’s
Continued from Page 17
Sass, with a degree in agronomics from University of Wisconsin-River Falls, enjoys walking the fields to monitor growth. “It is a great way to monitor to see the sprouts coming up, and also to see what the potential is,” she said. Sass also uses her background to assess what the fields and crops need to thrive. She said the family could get a good estimate of the yield by August.
Hoping markets improve
Making things more complex is the market. Volkers said all markets were low now. “Livestock, diary, ethanol, and soybeans – they all are not doing well price-wise,” he said. “The farm prices are down a third, but farming is a gamble. We hope that the markets improve, of course.” Volkers also addressed the dairy and cattle industry, explaining that the difficulties in McHenry County are not
quite as bad as in other areas, citing nearby, still-functioning meat-processing plants and other dairy facilities nearby such as Dean’s in Harvard, Prairie Farms in Rockford, and Oberweis. The government is rolling out ways to support these essential workers, but not all farmers can benefit Although some farms are eligible for the federal Payroll Protection Plan, many are not, Volkers said. “Many farms are family farms,” he said. “They don’t often have a payroll, but share in the profits at harvest or a percentage of bushels. Even the Farm Bureau wasn’t eligible. “The USDA is working with farmers to try to help out the farmers, too.” Sass Farms are “doing what we always do.” “We are always hopeful that we will have timely rain, heat and no drought,” Sass said. “We hope to do our best and always aim for the top.” Volkers said the same. “Farmers have been through difficult times,” he said. “They know this is a gamble, but they always come back, and they always hope for a good crop.”
IN BRIEF
2020 Green Guide offers info on recycling, donating
Woodstock • Marengo • Algonquin/Randall Rd. Huntley North & South • Hampshire • Genoa Carpentersville/Randall Rd. Helping Paws Animal Shelter is temporarily closed.
The 2020 McHenry County Green Guide, now available online, features the latest information on recycling household waste, electronics, paint, motor oil, light bulbs, batteries, hazardous waste, and medications. New in the 14th edition of the publication is information on a variety of apps to donate or resell items; resources for countywide residential collection events; guidance on curbside food scrap organics collection options; important recycling statistics from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency; and a guest article on recycling contamination from Kelli Boeckmann, solid waste manager for the
McHenry County Department of Health. The Green Guide is available online at mchenry.edu/green, and a printed version will be made available as stay-at-home guidelines are lifted. Printed versions can be reserved by emailing sustainability@ mchenry.edu. A fully translated Spanish version will also be available on the website. At the time of publication, many of the businesses and organizations listed in the guide were operating with reduced availability due to the COVID-19 pandemic. People should call or check websites before visiting any of the entities to verify current availability. For more information, email sustainability@mchenry.edu or call Kim Hankins at 815-479-7765.
REOPENED
AND INTRODUCING
OAKFORD PT PILATES
Insurance and private pay options
Oakford Physical Therapy is committed to you, to your goals, to your health. Let’s do this together! Individual and paired participant treatment sessions, starting June 2nd. Information @ oakfordphysicaltherapy.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
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.
COMMUNITY
Dr. Molly Oakford, physical therapist 665 West Jackson Street, Woodstock, IL 815-334-8850
May 20-26, 2020
OAKFORD PT PILATES IS NEW!
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
REMODELED
19
OPEN FOR BUSINESS
IN BRIEF Appointments being accepted for blood drive this Thursday Red Cross will set up a blood donation center this week at the McHenry County Fairgrounds in Woodstock, 11900 Country Club Road. People can make an appointment for a donation from noon to 5 p.m. Thursday, May 21. To make an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood. org or call 800-733-2767. All blood types are needed. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. People who are 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds, and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate. Rotary Club of Woodstock is a sponsor.
May 20-26, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
20
COMMUNITY
Building safety month observed with fee waiver
INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER
Kyle Sobczak has his donation bucket and trunk lid open at the First Presbyterian Church for cash or food donations for the Woodstock Food Pantry. Sue Krause makes a donation while Kyle’s daughter, Addison, passes on her bicycle.
During the 40th annual Building Safety Month in May, McHenry County is participating in the observance by waiving penalty fees this month for property owners in unincorporated McHenry County who voluntarily obtain building permits for construction that began without a permit. To take advantage of the waiver, which was approved by the County Board, call the McHenry County Department of Planning and Development at 815-334-4560 or email plandev@mchenrycountyil.gov. Building Safety Month is a worldwide campaign
presented by the International Code Council to promote building safety. “Safer Buildings, Safer Communities, Safer World,” the theme for Building Safety Month 2020, highlights the importance of building codes.
Local Girl Scouts host virtual annual meeting
During the first virtual annual meeting of the Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois, Janey Welch of Woodstock was elected to a three-year term as an adult National Council Delegate to represent GSNI at the 2020 Girl Scout National Council Session and serve as an adviser to GSNI’s Board of Directors and staff. More than 100 members attended the meeting May 9 as the organization elected officers, directors and various board members.
Friends supporting seniors with cards, uplifting notes
The nonprofit Friends of the Old Courthouse encourages local residents to “Shower our Seniors With Love!” Residents of all ages can drop off cards with uplifting notes, as well as their drawings, at the dropbox on the east side of Woodstock City Hall, 121 W. Calhoun St. The gifts will be distributed 72 hours later to prevent spreading of the COVID19 virus, to the more than 400 seniors residing in local facilities.
PICTURE THIS
Dorothy Ogle leads the ceremony dedicating a new flagpole at Oakland Cemetery on west Jackson Street in 1972. The inscription states, “The flag is flown half-mast until Noon each Memorial Day to honor Veterans.” Pictured left to right: Dorothy Ogle, James A. Ogle, Robert Steven Ogle II (in front), Donald Charles Ogle, and Russell Alan Ogle.
All of the McHenry County Historical Society programs have been canceled until further notice.
Don Peasley Photo Collection, McHenry County Historical Society
Kitchens • Baths • Windows • Millwork • Lumber • Doors 815-338-0075 • 1101 Lake Ave., Woodstock • www.woodstocklumber.com
Staff Report
NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM
COURTESY PHOTO
Woodstock Mayor Brian Sager, along with Councilman Gordie Tebo, accepts the Government Award the city received in March from The Environmental Defenders of McHenry County. Lori McConville of the Defenders presents the award during the organization’s 50th anniversary celebration at McHenry Country Club.
bags and collaborating on Styrofoam collection, for partnering on electric vehicle charging, for the willingness to experiment with utilizing effluent from their waste water plant to pretreat roads against icing, supporting sustainable energy, showing a commitment to protecting our land and water, and for the work and dedication of their Environmental Commission.”
J&J Tree Service
815-648-1489 • www.jjlandscape.net 6414 Greenwood Rd.,Wonder Lake, Il 60097
SPECIAL!
$30 OFF SPRING CLEAN AND CHECK Early bird AC specials End of season furnace specials Combination discounts Call for more specials 800-283-4500 • americancomfortcentral.com
25% OFF STUMP GRINDING Call for details 815-648-1489 expires 6/30/20
Tree Removal • Tree Trimming • Lot Clearing Stump Removal • Brush Removal
COMMUNITY
Defenders, for which he served many years, and for his position as director of the McHenry County Schools Environmental Education.” Woodstock Mayor Brian Sager, City Manager Roscoe Stelford, and Councilman Gordie Tebo accepted the award for the city. The award recognized “leadership on plastic waste reduction through passing an optional fee on single-use
May 20-26, 2020
Several environmentally friendly initiatives earned the city of Woodstock the Government Award from the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County. That was one of four awards presented during the Defenders’ 50th anniversary dinner March 8 at McHenry Country Club. About 220 people attended the event. Other awards presented were: Volunteer of the Year: Green Read Book Store volunteers “for their passion for books, welcoming customer service, sharing the mission of The Environmental Defenders” and other factors. Young Defender Award: Bailey Wise for “his dedication to the environment as demonstrated through his volunteer efforts, supporting the causes of the Environmental Defenders, commitment to sustainable living, and setting an example of stewardship.” Theta Award: Bill Donato for his dedication and commitment to educate young people about environmental stewardship, for “his leadership within the Environmental
The evening program included the showing for the first time of a 15-minute Environmental Defenders trailer of its documentary, “50 Years of Defending.” It includes interviews from those who helped to build the organization, including past executive directors Greg Lindsey, Jerry Paulson, Lenore Beyer and Cindy Skrukrud, as well as those who will lead it into the future. Guest speaker was Leslie Goddard, a historical actress with a doctorate from Northwestern University, who works full-time as a historical interpreter and public speaker. She portrayed Rachel Carson, author of “Silent Spring,” the groundbreaking novel that ignited the environmental movement in the late ’60s and early ’70s. The $50-a-plate fundraising dinner raised more than $4,000 for the organization’s 2020 summer internship and Latino scholarship programs. Founded in 1970, the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, 501(c)(3) organization. It is dedicated to the preservation and improvement of the natural environment in McHenry County.
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
Environmental Defenders observes 50th anniversary
21
GOT CHEESE?
announcements
May 20-26, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
22
It’s your big day,
celebrate it!
Send us your announcements! • engagement • wedding • anniversary • birth
We are
Woodstock!
COMMUNITY
Celebrating the Woodstock community for 32 years! Email photos and information for your FREE announcement in The Woodstock Independent: pr@thewoodstockindependent.com 815.338.8040 671 E. Calhoun Street thewoodstockindependent.com
INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI
Mary Pat Sass, blogger at Millennial Farm Wife and a part of Sass Family Farms, used her musical talent to play guitar and sing on Facebook Live to raise money for Curds for Kids in Wisconsin. Having grown up in the now-struggling dairy industry, the crop farmer reached out to the Woodstock community and beyond to help save milk that Wisconsin dairy farmers might otherwise dump, keeping it to feed children lunches in school food programs in Wisconsin. Ten pounds of milk can be turned into one pound of cheese. Sass raised $1,285 with help from local family and friends, which will help feed three schools for a week. “I’m so proud of our community for pitching in and helping farmers and children during this time, and so thankful to those who supported me,” she said.
A LITTLE PROJECT SPRING SPECIALS • Spring Clean & Check of Air Conditioning for $99 after rebate ($124 due at time of service) **Please note there are a limited number of rebates available
• 10% Discount on all regularly priced furnace or air conditioning installation – standard install • RESPICAIRE ULTRACLEAN99 AIR FILTER $1,495.00 for standard installation • RESPICAIRE OXY 4 AIRPURIFIER $795.00 for standard installation
CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT!
815-338-1936 Specials Good Through 4/8/2020-5/8/2020 Specials Good Through May 31, 2020 For Residential applications only Financing Options Available
INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER
John Rigby created these “doll size” table-and-chair sets that were given free to people who donated $50 to their favorite charity. Then he was on to making birdhouses from his home on Oak Street.
VISIT FACEBOOK OR CALL 815-566-7065 TO ORDER
Shipping, delivery, & curbside pick-up available
23 THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
PHOTO DETECTIVE
May 20-26, 2020
100 N Benton Street,Woodstock IL 60098 COMMUNITY
COURTESY PHOTO
Look at these pretty girls enjoying their ice cream treats at Moricoli’s, 138 Cass St., where Winestock now does business. According to a sign in the background, sundaes cost 25 cents, 30 cents for frozen strawberry, hot caramel, and hot fudge. Malted milks and milkshakes cost 29 cents, and banana splits would take 39 cents out of your pocket. Sodas, at 20 cents each, were a relative bargain. Don Peasley’s photo, dated 1953, is labeled, “Dairy Promotion fun photo taken at Moricoli’s Confectionery with three teenage girls sipping sodas and eating a sundae.” Do you know any of these three lovelies? If so, please contact Maggie Crane at MaggieC@woodstockil.info. – Susan W. Murray
IN BRIEF
Pioneer Center observes Trauma Awareness Day Pioneer Center employees last week observed Illinois Trauma Informed Awareness Day by providing training sessions to staff on Adverse Childhood Experience. According to a news release, the 90-minute training was offered twice on a live webinar. “Pioneer Center continues to be in the forefront by providing our employees with the most updated information and learnings on trauma informed care,” the news release said. ACEs are potentially traumatic occurrences during childhood. Children’s environment can undermine their sense of safety, stability and
bonding and have lasting, negative effects on health, well-being, and opportunities throughout a person’s life. ACEs are linked to chronic health problems, mental illness and substance misuse in adulthood. Pioneer Center’s director of Behavioral Health, Erin Brumfield Grima, explained, “This year, with Trauma Informed Awareness Day falling amidst the COVID-19 crisis, it is more apparent than ever that so many people can be impacted by adverse childhood experiences.” Pioneer Center is a private, nonprofit organization that offers programs for people with developmental disabilities, behavioral health services, and homeless shelter needs in McHenry County. To learn more, visit pioneercenter.org.
Full line of Beekeeping Equipment Poultry, Equine, Livestock Feeds Organic Feeds Loyalty Program on Nutrena Equine Feeds 17205 McGuire Rd, Harvard 815-943-4837
COPING WITH COVID-19
#Woodstock4all
We invite children to tell us what they think about living with the coronavirus quarantine. Send notes, letters, and photos with the child’s age to woodstock4all@thewoodstockindependent.com. And visit Woodstock4All at thewoodstockindependent.com homepage for photos and information.
I have been ju poline and do mping on the tramin I miss seeing g my school stuff. my friends at and going to school G house. – Jord randma and Papa’s an, 6
COMMUNITY
May 20-26, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
24
I have been doing my e-learning, jumping on the trampoline, playing Minecraft. Also, playing outside and gardening. I miss being able to play with my friends and being at school the regular way. – Mackenzie, 8
Happenings
School was so much fun because I could see my friends on the bus. I could talk to them at lunch or recess. But now I can’t see them all the time. We can’t see the kind and special teachers anymore. I miss all the fun we used to have. PE used to be really fun and cool. At the end of school on Fridays, I would go to my art club. I saw my friends there and drew a lot of neat things. I can only play with my brother on Xbox games, we battle each other. We are also on the hoverboard around the house, taking turns since we only have one hoverboard. Being at home is not as fun as being at school. I miss school. – Devin, 11
•••PLEASE CHECK WITH SPONSORS OR VENUES ABOUT CANCELLATIONS OR POSTPONEMENTS OF EVENTS•••
calendar
20 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
23 SATURDAY
WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET McHenry County Fairgrounds
outside 11900 Country Club Road 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org
28 THURSDAY
25 MONDAY
7 p.m. Zoom meeting
MEMORIAL DAY
27 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
WOODSTOCK FIRE RESCUE DIST. BOARD OF TRUSTEES
30 SATURDAY
WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET McHenry County Fairgrounds outside 11900 Country Club Road 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org
To submit calendar items, email pr@thewoodstockindependent.com JUNE
6 SATURDAY
2 TUESDAY
WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET
WOODSTOCK CITY COUNCIL MEETING
McHenry County Fairgrounds outside 11900 Country Club Road 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org
By Zoom or conference call 312-626-6799, code 572395 7 p.m.
13 SATURDAY
3 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
Resurrection Catholic Church
WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET McHenry County Fairgrounds outside 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.
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
■ Thala Rank was named Woodstock High School May Queen. ■ For the third year in a row, WHS track star Elena Fritz was headed to the IHSA state track meet.
25 years ago – 1995
■“For the Birds” silent auction was raising funds for the renovation of the Stickney House. Virginia Peschke and Verna Hogan spearheaded the event, which included birdhouses, bird baths, feeders, and other bird-related items. Some were autographed and donated by government officials and Chicago Bears players.
25 ■ Rich and Sue Eyre, owners of Rich’s Foxwillow Pines Nursery, were hosting their annual Hosta Happening, selling hundreds of varieties of hostas to benefit Heifer International. Rich’s mother, 92-year-old Margaret Eyre, known as the “Hosta Queen,” coordinated the volunteers who helped divide and sell the hostas.
5 years ago – 2015
■ More than 95 students in the Special Education District of McHenry County performed in “Grand Opening,” a variety show, at the Opera House. ■ The Woodstock Recreation Center reached a milestone – 1,000 members. ■ Paul Meyer was sworn in as president of the Woodstock School District 200 Board of Education.
■ Paul Lyngbye and Henning Koch, both from Copenhagen, were among the crowd of Orson Welles fans who came to Woodstock for the Orson Welles Centennial Festival, a threeweek celebration of the acclaimed director, actor, and writer, in conjunction with his 100th birthday. Welles had been a boarding student at Woodstock’s Todd School for Boys and considered Woodstock his hometown. ■ The D-200 Board of Education honored retiring board member Bob Birchfield by renaming the district’s Administrative ACA award the Robert Birchfield Award of Excellence. The award was being given each year to two graduating seniors and two eighth-graders. Birchfield served on the board for 20 years. ■ The Independent featured the Greenwood Group made up of men and women with long-standing ties to Greenwood. The group, which began meeting in the 1930s as part of the Farm Bureau’s Rural Youth Group, was meeting monthly at the Greenwood General Store. Present at the May 2015 meeting were Rodney Aavang, Libby Aavang, Dorothy Thomas, Norma Anderson, Cherry Kot, and Charlotte Emricson.
10 years ago – 2010
1 year ago – 2019
20 years ago – 2000
■ Members of Woodstock service clubs were collecting donations for Woodstock’s Fourth of July fireworks display. ■ Books had been moved from the Woodstock Public Library to the building at 222 Church St. so the library’s reconstruction could begin. ■ The city of Woodstock was in the process of hiring a consulting firm to oversee the construction of what would later be called Woodstock Water Works.
15 years ago – 2005
■ Facebook and other social media sites were proving to be valuable sources of information for the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office, but the Woodstock Police Department was content distributing press releases through the media and the city website. Sgt. Dick Johns did not rule out WPD using social networking in the future. ■ On the Town columnist John Daab advised readers to “drop everything” to see Willy Porter at the Opera House. “To fully appreciate Willy Porter’s gift for making magic with the guitar, you have to see him live,” Daab wrote.
■ Woodstock North High School’s Jeffrey Massman was valedictorian of the Class of 2019, which was 221 strong. Elena Thurow was salutatorian. Seventy-six percent of the graduates were planning to attend 2- or 4-year college, and six students were joining the Armed Forces. ■ The Class of 2019 at WHS had 260 graduates. Madeline Scolio was valedictorian, and Ian Dawdy was salutatorian. The class had earned more than $1.8 million in scholarship money for the first year in college. Fourteen graduates were headed into the Armed Forces.
Your ad could sponsor this Flashbacks section! The
Woodstock
I NDEPENDENT
Call 815-338-8040 today. thewoodstockindependent.com
COMMUNITY
■ 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
May 20-26, 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
CALL ABOUT CANCELLATIONS AND ALTERNATIVE SERVICES SCHEDULED
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
RELIGION
RUBES
By Leigh Rubin
HEATHCLIFF By Peter Gallagher
PUZZLE PAGE
Dec. 27-Jan. 2, 2017
May 20-26, 2020
WORD SEARCH
1 THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
26
SUDOKU
PUZZLE PAGE
CRYPTO FUN
SOLUTION
ADOPTED BOUQUET BREAKFAST CHILDREN FAVORITES GIFTING GRANDMOTHER HONORED
LOVE MAMA MATERNAL MAY MEAL MOM MOTHER MUM
WORD SCRAMBLE
The
9 AM - 7 PM Call 815-337-8230 to place your order
THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY FOR SUPPORTING US! Open for take out and delivery
GUESS WHO?
Woodstock
I NDEPENDENT solution
1110 N. Seminary Ave. Woodstock, IL
PARENT PRESENTS ROSES SHOWCASE SPECIAL SPOIL SUNDAY TREAT
PUZZLES & COMICS
Rules: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as 9x9 grids, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box.
PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTY-SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT MCHENRY COUNTY-IN PROBATE Case No. 20PR000054 In the Matter of the Estate of JENNY L. OHLRICH Deceased CLAIM NOTICE Notice is given of the death of JENNY L. OHLRICH Of: WOODSTOCK, IL Letters of office were issued on: 5/11/2020 to: Representative: BENJAMIN OHLRICH 322 LAKE AVE. WOODSTOCK, IL 60098 whose attorney is: KRAFT, PATRICIA C. 131 E. CALHOUN ST. WOODSTOCK, IL 60098
Claims against the estate may be filed within six months from the date of first publication. Any claim not filed within six months from the date of first publication or claims not filed within three months from the date of mailing or delivery of Notice to Creditor, whichever is later, shall be barred. Claims may be filed in the office of the Clerk of Circuit Court at the McHenry County Government Center, 2200 North Seminary Avenue, Woodstock, Illinois, 60098, or with the representative, or both. Copies of claims filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to his attorney within ten days after it has been filed. /s/KATHERINE M KEEFE (Clerk of the Circuit Court) (Published in The Woodstock Independent May 20, 2020)L11032
PUBLIC NOTICE
ASSUMED NAME Public Notice is hereby given that on MAY 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: CREATIVEONEDESIGN located at 6915 MAPLE ST, MARENGO IL 60152. Owner Name & Address: TONYA L STEDMAN 6915 MAPLE ST, MARENGO IL 60152. Dated: MAY 6, 2020 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk) (Published in The Woodstock Independent May 20, 2020)L11033
27
May 20-26, 2020
NOTICE OF CHANGE TO DBA CLOSING THE BUSINESS File # 3311A Public Notice is hereby given that on APRIL 27, 2020, A.D. 2020, a Certificate was filed in the Office of the County Clerk of McHenry County IL concerning the business known as BROOK FARM located at 9306 LAWRENCE RD, HARVARD IL 60033 which certificate sets forth the following change: CLOSING THE BUSINESS in the DBA thereof: OWNERS: RICHARD L BROOK & SONJA BROOK, OWNERS ADDRESS: 9306 LAWRENCE RD HARVARD IL 60033. Dated: APRIL 27, 2020 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk) (Published in The Woodstock Independent May 20, 2020)L11031
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
ASSUMED NAME Public Notice is hereby given that on APRIL 23, 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: LAW OFFICE OF MICHAEL BARRETT located at 530 ROCKLAND ROAD CRYSTAL LAKE IL 60014. Owner Name & Address: MICHAEL T. BARRETT SR. 530 ROCKLAND ROAD CRYSTAL LAKE IL 60014. Dated: APRIL 23, 2020 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk) (Published in The Woodstock Independent May 6, 2020, May 13, 2020, May 20, 2020)L11029
PUBLIC NOTICES
May 20-26, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
28
Woodstock
Deadline: NOON Thursday for next week’s issue
I NDEPENDENT CLASSIFIED ADS The
ILLINOIS CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK
To place an ad: CALL 815-338-8040 • VISIT thewoodstockindependent.com
WANTED TO BUY FREON WANTED: We pay CA$H for cylinders and cans. R12 R500 R11 R113 R114. Convenient. Certified Professionals. Call 312-598-1758 or visit RefrigerantFinders.com
YOUR AD COULD BE HERE!
HELP WANTED
Northern ICANS - Run Date Week of 5/17/2020
CLASSIFIEDS
Sr. Project Manager-Catalent Pharma Solutions (Woodstock, IL) Must have proof of legal authorization to work in U.S.
Apply online at https://www.catalent.com (under Posting Number 0042028). To view full information about the job opportunities including the full job description, related occupation, education and experience requirements please refer to the internet posting at https://www.catalent.com under Posting Number above.
#woodstock4all CALL TODAY TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD
@thewoodstockindependent
YOUR AD HERE
YOUR AD COULD BE HERE! CALL 815-338-8040
Large Blocks are $80 per month Small Blocks are $20 per week CALL
815-338-8040
SERVICE DIRECTORY Small Blocks are $40 and Large Blocks are $80 for 4 weeks Call 815.338.8040 for details.
AC/HEATING
INSURANCE
CONSTRUCTION
LANDSCAPING
May 20-26, 2020
CARPENTRY
29 THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
Deadline: NOON Thursday for next week’s issue
ssnyder;Woodstock Heating & Cooling;A19522;3.75x1.75-BW (20Sp)
SINCE 1977
Proud Recipients of the Woodstock Chamber 2020 Professional Service Provider of The Year Award
(815) 338-0282
woodstockheating.com
© 2020 Lennox Industries Inc. Lennox Dealers are independently owned and operated businesses.
HEALTH INSURANCE
FOUNDATIONS GARAGE SLABS/ DRIVEWAYS PATIOS/ WALKS/ STOOPS REPLACEMENTS fully insured
815-482-9542 (McHenry) free estiMates ELECTRIC CONTRACTOR MENTION THIS AD FOR 10% OFF SERVICE CALL - Service upgrades Since - Repairs 1986 - Maintenance Residential - Commercial
Delaware Electric Co.
A19522-20Sp-3.75x1.75-BW.indd 1
3/5/20 4:35 PM
Fully Licensed
815-338-3139 HOME SERVICES Are you going out of town? Leave knowing your home is being checked on regularly with
Assurance Home Service, Inc.
ASSURANCE HOME SERVICE, INC. A Home Watch Company
Giving you peace of mind, when you are away.
Chris & Kathleen Carr
815.790.1247
kathleen@assurancehomeservice.com www.assurancehomeservice.com
GET YOUR BUSINESS INFORMATION IN FRONT OF LOCAL RESIDENTS!
CALL 815-338-8040 TO PLACE YOUR AD $40 for 4 weeks
Check out our ONLINE GARDEN CENTER • thegrowingscene.com
Expert Landscaping • Spring Clean-up • Lawn Service • Tree Service • Trimming, Edging, Mulch • Free Estimates
815-905-5852
YOUR AD HERE
Your ad could be here! CALL 815-338-8040
$80 for four weeks TECHNOLOGY
YOUR AD HERE
CLASSIFIEDS
ANCHOR CONSTRUCTION
SPORTS
May 20-26, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
30
FOX FRAME SHOP
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
226 W Judd Street # 1 • Woodstock, IL • (815) 338-5867 • foxframeshop.com
KN95 MASKS AVAILABLE Call Fox Frame Imports 815-338-5867
! E F A S Y A T S
Fox Frame Imports is a division of Fox Frame Shop which has been in business in Woodstock for the past 15 years.
THANK YOU TO OUR ATHLETE OF THE WEEK SPONSOR!
We look forward to sponsoring future athletes! 815-355-0661 • SportsCityAcademy.com SportsCity Academy is temporarily closed
What a wild ride this is. To our customers, community and friends, thank you. This is truly a community effort, and we would not be where we are without you.
CALL TODAY! SPECIAL AD for SMALL OFFER businesses!
As we continue to ride out this storm together, follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@readbetweenthelynes) for the most up-to-date information.
1/8 page color print ad that includes your
We look forward to filling your online orders (at readbetweenthelynes.com) and continuing to serve Woodstock for years to come.
and include a social media shout-out.
Take care and be well, Arlene Lynes
business logo, contact info, hours of operation, and a special offer. The ad will run four times
$
199
Jen Wilson: 815.701.9258 • jen@thewoodstockindependent.com
Katy O’Brien: 815.701.9268 • katy@thewoodstockindependent.com
& the RBTL team
SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESS!
WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER! #woodstock4all
The
Woodstock
I NDEPENDENT
thewoodstockindependent.com
Sports
31
Local high schools’ spring athletes had just begun to practice when the season was halted and eventually ended before it ever really began. During the school year, our sports section in The Independent is typically packed with photos and coverage of high school sports. This spring, however, has been different. We’ve featured stories on how athletes are coping with the shelter-in-place order and how some sports are still managing to take place, but we miss sharing the efforts and accomplishments of our spring season teams, including softball, baseball, girls soccer, boys tennis, lacrosse, and boys and girls track and field. Senior year is often when these athletes really shine, excelling in both skills and leadership. Even though they never had a chance to represent their schools in conference play or make a bid for sectional and state competition, each athlete who came out for a sport this spring made a commitment and deserves recognition. We feel the loss for the underclassmen who missed out on a chance to grow and learn, and we look forward to following them next year. We want to recognize the seniors who missed their year to shine. Starting May 6 and for the next few weeks, we will pay tribute to the senior athletes from each sport at each school, recognizing them by name and offering memories and comments provided by their coaches, accompanied by highlight photos by Woodstock Independent photographers from last season. -Sandy Kucharski Woodstock Independent Sports Editor The May 6, Woodstock Independent saluted Marian girls soccer and Woodstock North boys track and field athletes. May 13, Woodstock girls track and field, Marian lacrosse and Woodstock North softball were featured.
Woodstock High School Softball Tributes provided by head coach Shandon Nixon
Katie Zanck
Katie was in line to be the Streaks’ starting center fielder and leadoff hitter. She made the difficult transition as a freshman to become a slap hitter from the left side of the plate after batting only right-handed until that point. She would have racked up a lot of stolen bases and runs scored with her table-setting ability. She is a hard worker and very professional in how she approaches practice and her responsibilities on the team. “She is one of the greater pure athletes I have had the chance to coach.”
Megan Weber
A starter on the varsity team last year, Megan was going to play outfield and first base this season. Giving her best effort on every play, she is focused and continues to work to improve. She is a very positive teammate no matter how difficult things might get on the field, a role her coaches were looking for her to share with the team this season.
Valerie Berretta
Valierie was new to the program this year, and her role was yet to be defined. She worked hard at each practice and brought a positive attitude and a strong work ethic. It was evident that she enjoyed playing the game of softball and being part of a team.
INDEPENDENT FILE PHOTO
WHS varsity slap hitter Katie Zanck bats against St. Edwards April 2, 2019.
“As a team, we were going to be really young,” Nixon said. “We had two freshmen and three sophomores who would have logged meaningful time at the varsity level this year. CaroleAnn Goglin, Meghan Nixon, and Kiley Ryan were three returning starters from last year who were primed to take a big step forward and be a big part in the success this team would have experienced. Grace Karner, Abby Weber, Kamryn McDonald, Hannah Wietermann, Ashley Peralta, Bri McKenzie, and Delaney Heidtke were all working hard to prepare for their first varsity season and were preparing to all be positive contributors to a successful season.”
Even with his career ending one outdoor track season early at Benedictine University, Marian Central Catholic graduate Ryan Di Pietro helped the Eagles win a Northern Athletics ColDan legiate ConferChamness ence team title. The College As a senior, he Report earned the right to call himself an individual conference champ as the Eagles won the 1,600-meter relay indoors. As the sun set on the indoor career, Di Pietro had the best times of his career and was preparing to have the best outdoor season of his life. “I was having my best season ever,” the former Hurricane athlete said of his senior track season. “It is truly unfor- Ryan Di Pietro tunate that we were not able to finish the season, but I was able to set a new personal best in the 55-meter hurdles and help our relay team not only win the conference title, but set a new school record at another meet. With the help of my great coaches, they had put me on track to set new personal Please see COLLEGE Page 33
May 20-26, 2020
High school athletes recognized for senior season that never was
Ryan Di Pietro finishes career as conference champion and record-holder
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
Spring Senior Salute
May 20-26, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
32
Woodstock North High School Track & Field Tributes provided by head coach Cas Creighton “Writing this put me in tears,” said Cas Crighton, reflecting on the track and field careers that were and would have been.
Paiton Wood
SPORTS
Working hard in-season and off-, Paiton was a 2020 captain who was willing to step up and take a leadership role. She has plans to run cross-country and track in college. “I was looking forward to seeing what she had in store for me this season.”
Kaley Brucker
Another 2020 captain, Kayley grew as an athlete over her four years of participation. She came into the current season completely transformed. “I was looking forward to seeing her smash her personal best.”
Amber Elliott
A strong and determined athlete, Amber can listen and adjust to a coach while running. She will be running track at Carroll University.
Maddie Miller
Maddie was a team captain. As she came off a very successful 2019 season, coaches were hoping for great things from her this year. “It finally clicked, and that fire was lit. She
Paiton Wood runs strong in the Steve Erwin Invite April 26, 2019.
INDEPENDENT FILE PHOTOS
became a true competitor last year.”
Grace Crespo
Participating in track as a freshman and again as a senior, Grace brought a lot of spirit to the team. “In the short time I had with her, she showed hard work and dedication. I was glad to see her back out this year.”
Maxine Hugger
Coming out for track as a senior, Maxine had to work extra hard to get in shape and adjusted. She had setbacks but showed dedication, rehabbing daily to reach competition condition.
Melanie Dycus
Another first-year track athlete, Melanie jumped right in and was willing to try anything. “She works hard and always had a great attitude.”
North’s Amber Elliott runs at the Kishwaukee River Conference championship meet May 2, 2019.
Continued from page 31
At Harper, Di Pietro helped the team advance to the NJCAA Division III nationals both years. As a sophomore, he earned three All-American honors, one individual and two relay events. He took fifth in the 400-meter hurdles. He was also a member of the 400-meter relay and the 1,600-meter relay, both of which took fourth in the country.
Legal estate planning will always be essential. Don’t put it off another day. If you prefer not to come to the office during this time of social distancing, there are several safe options to review and sign your estate documents. Let’s meet by phone or by video conference to begin the process. It’s easier than you think, and the first meeting is free!
Patricia C. Kraft Attorney at Law 131 East Calhoun Street, Woodstock, IL Patricia C. Kraft L
A
W
815-206-2200 Attorney at Law| Pat@PatriciaKraftLaw.com
25% off fees for new estate planning files opened by May 31, 2020 40% off fees if you lost your job due to COVID-19
NN SCOREBOARD NN NO SCORES TO REPORT ALL SCHOOL SPORTS CANCELED FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE SCHOOL YEAR NO RECREATIONAL SPORTS TAKING PLACE AT THIS TIME
33
SCOREBOARD PRESENTED BY
815.338.7830
205 E. South St. • Woodstock
SPORTS
It’s never a good time to neglect your estate planning needs
COURTESY PHOTO
Former Hurricane runner Ryan Di Pietro competes in the 55-meter hurdles for Benedictine University.
and go out on your own terms. “It was tough that my fellow seniors and I had to be told we are done with our careers, because we were so determined to finish out our senior season and make one final drive for the NCAA Division III nationals.” Dan Chamness writes The College Report for The Independent.
May 20-26, 2020
bests for the upcoming outdoor season.” Di Pietro helped the 1,600-meter relay team dash to a time of 3 minutes, 21.97 seconds, which is not only the fastest time in Benedictine history, but it is also the fastest time ever run by an NACC team, therefore it is the new conference record as well. It broke the former Benedictine indoor record of 3:25.79, which had stood since 2016. Di Pietro’s split in the relay was 49 seconds. The Eagles runner, who started his career at Harper College, finished with an indoor best of :08.63 in the 55-meter hurdles and an outdoor best of :16.78 in the 110-meter hurdles. “My favorite event was the 400meter hurdles,” said Di Pietro, who posted a career-best time of :57.58 in the event. “It is my favorite, because it is challenging both mentally and physically. There are so many things that can happen, and you just never know what lies ahead in that race for you as well as the other competitors. I prefer to run in the relays, though. There is no race like the 4-by-400meter relay. The atmosphere surrounding this race is just a surreal experience to be a part of.”
As a team, Harper took fifth in the country. While he was on the team as a freshman and traveled with the team to nationals, he did not get an opportunity to compete. He was brought along as an alternate competitor in both the 400-meter relay and the 1,600 meter relay. “I loved my time at Harper,” he said. “ It was an amazing experience, and I was able to be a part of a tremendous team that was very close-knit. Being with that group for two seasons was something that made me enjoy the seasons even more and made us have a ton of fun along the way.” The son of Dave and Sue Di Pietro of Algonquin will graduate in December 2020 with a degree in nutrition and dietetics. He currently holds a gradepoint average of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale. The next step to becoming a registered dietitian is to focus on his DICAS dietetic internship. For his work in the classroom at Benedictine, he was twice named to the dean’s list, earning the academic distinction during the spring 2019 semester and the most recent semester. “I found out we were canceled on March 12,” Di Pietro said. “Although I support the decision and understand why it was made, it was definitely still tough to deal with at the time. As an athlete, you want to be able to have a say in when you are done in your sport
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
COLLEGE
SPORTS
May 20-26, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
34
state track and field meet, 15th as a sophmore, and fifth as a junior. He was working toward a top-three finish as a senior. He earned a spot in the Marian record books, holding the school record in the 3,200 with 9 minutes, 39:39 seconds. “Ryan’s leadership, effort, and his faith … were unmatachable. Marian’s track and field [program] was blessed and fortunate to have him for four years to strengthen and represent our school with his yearround running successes. But most of all, he showed others how it is done with full effort, tenacity, integrity, and a humble reaction to success and sportsmanship.”
Marian Boys Track & Field Tributes provided by head coach Andrea Radcliffe
Brogan Pivnicka
Brogan, a team captain, was committed to his training and his teammates. As a sprinter, he was a key member of multiple Hurricane relay teams as he could compete just as fast in the 100 as he did in the 400. As a high jumper, his height improved each year, and he quickly became the lead male high jumper. “He will be fantastic in his tenure at Notre Dame and whatever career field he chooses in life.”
Andrew Pascente
INDEPENDENT FILE PHOTOS
Marian standout distance runner Ryan Jones shows his dominance on the track, winning the 3,200-meter run at the McHenry County meet April 24, 2019. coach wants on their team.”
Ryan Jones
Ryan represented the Hurricanes well in state competitions, qualifying for state all four years in crosscountry and every year – except for this year, which didn’t happen – in track and field. As a freshman, he placed 20th in the 3,200 at the
A hardworking distance runner, Andrew enjoyed the camaraderie of his teammates, especially those he ran distance with. They were a solid group that trusted one another, running miles across the county. His best race was the 4x800 with the ‘OG Team.’ “Andrew’s desire for success as an athlete was evident as he finished each season with new PRs. As a senior, we were hoping to watch Andrew’s increased strength and stamina on the track, and perhaps creating new PRs.”
Marian Girls Track & Field
Tributes provided by head coach Andrea Radcliffe
Cecilia O’Neill
A committed athlete, Cecilia was an asset to the throws program. She enjoyed competing as an athlete and valued the real sense of comradery she built with her teammates. “Her faith-filled smile and charasmatic attitude will be sweetly missed next year.”
Relay specialist Brogan Pivnicka receives a handoff from teammate Patrick Kelly in the 4x100, May 15, 2019.
Drew Gillum
A true, responsible leader, Drew was a throws captain for the team. He was sidelined his junior year but attended and coached his fellow throwers each day. His coaches hoped they would see him break records in disc and shot during his senior year. “He gave us the intangibles that a coach can’t ask for but can only be given by the athlete, and [he]
always gave us and his teammates his all.”
Johnathan Klaus
Leading by example, Johnathan was one of the fastest boys on the team, running anything from the 100 to the 400. He was sixth in the conference in the 400, but put relay events before his own individual stats. “[He is] the type of athlete every
Sophia McManus Johnathan Klaus fights to the finish line in the 110 high hurdles May 15, 2019.
The team’s go-to triple jumper since her sophomore year, Sophia suffered an injury as a junior that took her out for a year. Continued on NEXT Page
35
Tributes provided by head coach Jacob Porter
As sophmores, the 2020 seniors helped Marian win the 2018 sectional championship. Continued from PREVIOUS Page
Kelly Reagan
Kelly leaves Marian holding the school record in the individual 400 and is also a member of the record-holding 4x100 and 4x400 teams. Improving her times over the summer in the 200 and 400, she was poised to break more records during the 2020 season. Her teammates will always remember how she fell during the 400 in the 2018 sectional meet, then returned to race in the 4x400, where she helped the team secure their first-ever sectional championship, and a spot in the state meet in that relay. “I was blessed to have been able to coach Reagan for three years, and her work effort was surpassed only by her faith … her leadership, and helpfulness to her teammates and the program.
Siobhan Stoll
Siobhan was the best distance runner on the girls team with incredibly high stamina. Injured during her freshman and sophomore seasons, she worked hard to come back, dropping her time in the 1,600 and 3,200. In her junior year she qualified for the state meet in both but chose to compete in only the 3,200, placing13th. “Siobhan’s diligent and painstaking fitness regime is
Claudia Zuwala
Another all-purpose athlete, Claudia was capable of running in any race her team needed her to run. “This season we were anxious to see her hit the track and compete as she had increased her speed and strength this last year.”
Nora Kelly
Nora substituted for an injured runner and ran the best split of her career, helping her team make it to state in the 4x400 as a sophomore.
Zofia Stawiarska
A team captain, Zofia has been an all-purpose athlete who could throw or run a 400 or 800. She was the leading Hurricane throwers throughout her high school career. “Zofia is a hard-working athlete and always had a smile for everyone.”
Abby Kurcz
Abby served Marian track and field as a manager. “From teammate to team manager, our program was built on athletes and support like the kind we got from Abby. In her senior year, we were looking forward to having her experience and input on the sidelines with us.”
Will Conlon
A three-year tennis player with a ton of charisma, Will bonded the team together with his loose attitude and competitive banter. He was going to play varsity doubles this year. He always had lofty goals, and he would let you know about them.
Jack Covell
Extremely outspoken and full of energy, Jack was a three-year tennis player. Continually working on his game and his fitness, he was set to have an excellent year at the JV level.
Jose Mendez
This was the first year that Jose came out for tennis. Growing in the fundamentals, Jose caught the bug to play tennis for life. He was going to help at JV with his athleticism.
Spencer Ogle
Spencer put a ton of time and energy into tennis. He took private lessons and attended 6 a.m. hitting sessions in the offseason. Spencer competed at varsity for the last two Kishwaukee River Conference championships. He was a major rock on the 2020 team. Spencer was willing to play single or doubles. He typically played varsity doubles as half of the No 1 doubles team this year.
Luis Palma
This was the first year Luis came out for tennis. He hit the floor running, asking great questions about his grip and fundamentals. He had what it takes to play tennis, athleticism and a great demeanor. He was
Kaleb Robey
Kaleb was a three-year tennis player, excelling at JV and ready to make the step up to the varsity level this year. At his strongest when at the net, he was a major addition to the varsity doubles teams. Reliable and willing to do whatever the team or teammates asked, Kaleb was putting in extra work showing up Tuesday morning at 6 a.m. hitarounds in the offseason.
Kyle Troy
A two-year tennis player, Kyle came to tennis with the mentality that he was going to get in shape and hopefully have fun doing it. Mission accomplished. Kyle dedicated his body and effort to the team and improved at the JV level quite a bit.
Eli Woodson
Another four-year tennis player, this was going to be the year Eli broke through and made the varsity team. A talented doubles player with charisma and a positive attitude in tennis, he was putting in extra work during the offseason, attending every 6 a.m. hit-around session. His hard work was going to pay off this year – it’s really unfortunate that we didn’t get to see it on the courts. “On behalf of coach Oliveria and myself, we want to truly thank our seniors for their dedication and effort to the Woodstock tennis program. You guys are going out as champs in our eyes. “Look for the boys Blue Streak tennis team to be back next year defending our three straight conference championships.” Looking ahead, Porter said: “Our juniors this year are loaded. We will be dominant at the top of our lineup next year.”
SPORTS
“This was going to be her year to compete. … We were really looking forward to seeing what she could do this season.”
insurmountable. She is driven by her own personal desire for success. She led her team by example with a quiet grace that was undeniable.”
going to play JV this year.
May 20-26, 2020
INDEPENDENT FILE PHOTO
“What a weird season of tennis. We had nine practices and no matches. Quite frankly, the weather in April and early May would have made this season a challenge without the global pandemic.”
INDEPENDENT FILE PHOTO
The WHS boys varsity tennis team missed the 2020 season.
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
Woodstock High School Boys Tennis
ESSENTIAL BUSINESS
May 20-26, 2020
THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT
36
SERVICE OPEN 7AM TO 7PM • MON-FRI SALES BY 9AM TO 7PM • MON-FRI APPOINTMENT 9AM TO 6PM • SAT PLEASE CALL 815-338-6680 TO FREE CREDIT CHECK! SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT
0APR X 84 0APR X 72 0APR X 60MOS. % % %
ON ALL NEW MOS. 2019 FORDS ON ALL NEW MOS. 2020 FORDS *
+
^
ON NEW FORD SUPER DUTY MODELS (GAS OR DIESEL)
300 NEW & 120 USED VEHICLES IN STOCK! Ro u t e 47 • Wo o d s t o c k
815-338-6680
WWW.BULLVALLEYFORD.COM
All offers plus tax, title. lic. & $300 doc fee. On select new models. To qualified buyers. *Based on $11.90 per $1,000 financed. +Based on $13.88 per $1,000 financed. ^Based on $16.67 per $1,000 finance. Must be executed at the time of sale. No prior sales. Offer ends 5/31/2020.
F