Woodstock Independent 6/10/2020 by Woodstock Independent

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Woodstock

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June 10-16, 2020

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

Which bad option is best? D-200 wants your thoughts on tax hikes, program cuts By Larry Lough

LARRY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

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Fireworks at Emricson Park will be different – still a blast PAGE 11

SCHOOLS

How would you prefer Woodstock School District 200 manage its $161 million bond debt? Would you mind much if the school property tax went up, say, $120 a year – or more? How about combining the athletic

programs at the two high schools, eliminating middle schools sports, and maybe cutting into co-curricular activities such as music and art? Or maybe stretching out payments on the debt three or four years, adding millions to the payback? And how much of the district’s $25 million surplus should be spent as part of whatever solution the Board of

Education eventually approves? You are apparently going to have the opportunity to share your opinion in a survey that will ask about budget cuts, tax increases, and other options no one likes. “Eventually, if you want to save money,” Superintendent Mike Moan told the board last week, “you’re going

See DEBT, Page 2

BUSY MORNING

Retirees in District 200 recall their careers with fondness PAGE 8

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Neighborhood flower walk honors Woodstock couple

PAGE 14

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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

Downtown Woodstock, as evidenced by this photo of Cass Street, was as busy Saturday as it had been for a while when the Farmers Market returned to the Square for the first time this season. Because of coronavirus concerns, the producers market had stayed at its winter home at the McHenry County Fairgrounds. It will now resume the normal summer schedule of being open each Tuesday and Saturday.

City adds space to grow downtown By Larry Lough

LARRY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

When the time is right for development of the downtown area, Woodstock will have a big place to develop. The City Council last week approved the purchase of the vacated grain silo site at 313 Short St. for $200,000.

Under the sale agreement, the seller, DeLong Co., will demolish all structures on the site. According to Garrett Anderson, the city director of Economic Development, that 1.02 acres means the city will will have 16.5 acres north of the Square “which could potentially be developed” among more than 17 acres the city will

own in that area. City Manager Roscoe Stelford said the site of the former grain elevator was a “key piece” of the city’s long-term plan for downtown development. “This puts the city in a much better position of having control of the parcel,” he said of the area north of See DOWNTOWN, Page 2

NEWS

June 10-16, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

DEBT

skin crawl.” “Part of it’s not financial,” added board member Jerry Miceli, another teacher. “Part of it is what’s best for kids.”

Continued from page 1

to need to cut somewhere.” Under the current repayment schedule, if the board takes no action by next March, the tax bill on the bond will increase by $784 a year, for four or five years, on a home with a market value of $200,000. So that bill of about $500 now would approach $1,300. Before deciding what to do, board members want to know what Woodstock residents think. They directed Moan and his staff to put together a public survey for the board to review at its meeting in July. “We need to hear from people besides our bubble here,” said board member John Headley, a retired teacher. “We need to get more of a broad-based idea. I’d like to hear from more people.”

More proposals reviewed

No consensus was reached last week on the options discussed. “I don’t feel comfortable doing these things,” board Vice President Jacob Homuth said, “but I have to be responsible fiscally. We have to be responsible as a board.” The board reviewed three more scenarios for restructuring and paying down the debt, after having looked at several other proposals in its two previous meetings with Jennifer Currier of bond adviser PMA Securities of Chicago.

‘Combination of things’

PMA SECURITIES

This debt repayment option would not extend the payoff schedule, but it would increase the school tax bill by $179 a year for a home with a market value of $200,000 and spend $25 million from the D-200 surplus. At the meeting in May, the board asked Moan to explore cuts in staff and programs. He figured that to avoid a tax increase and not extend the payment schedule, the district would need to cut $1.8 million a year in spending. “We’re halfway there if we combine the athletic departments,” he said. He noted that a decade ago, when Woodstock North High School was built, the district foresaw two schools

each with an enrollment of 1,800 – which now is about the combined student population of both. “Nobody wants to do anything,” Moan said, “but these are tough times, and we’re talking about tough situations.” The program cuts were not popular with board members. “I’m not interested now in making these cuts,” Headley said. “It makes my

DOWNTOWN

facility, but it is considered “available for development.”

Continued from Page 1

Permit process streamlined

Washington Street.

Development priorities

The city this spring closed on the $1.5 million purchase of the former Die Cast factory site, about 8 acres along Clay Street where the former Woodstock Station development went bankrupt during the housing recession after building 10 townhomes. Chicago Trust Co. agreed to terms arranged by previous site owner Wintrust Bank to delay payment and interest of a purchase loan for two years. Combined with property the city already owned next to that site, the city will control nearly 13 acres there, about 9 of which could be developed, Anderson said. But the city also sees potential for development of other tracts in the immediate area, including the current Public Works site along Washington Street, about 4 acres, and the overflow parking lot for the Metra station, an additional 1.3 acres. In the Downtown Development Plan,

Board President Carl Gilmore said cost cutting could be part of “a combination of things” to approach the problem. “Part of the plan is budget cuts,” he said, “... hard targets we have to meet every year, and we have to make it work or we’re not going to come out of this the right way.” But member Bruce Farris said even the income projections presented to the board for the years ahead seemed optimistic in light of the uncertainty of how COVID-19 issues would affect state and local revenues. “We can’t have thoughts everything is going to be hunky-dory,” he said. “We could find ourselves in a year or two in real financial trouble.” Gilmore agreed there was no easy path. “It’s going to take some maneuvering to figure out what we can and cannot do,” he said. “[A tax increase] might be part of the solution to a problem that is not going to go away unless we do something about it.” Meeting only monthly in the summer, the board is scheduled to meet July 21, when it expects to review a proposed survey of public opinion about options for addressing the debt.

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY LARRY LOUGH

The former Seegers Grain office at 313 Short St. has been owned by DeLong Co. since January 2019. which the council approved in January 2019, the Die Cast land is No. 1 and Public Works No. 3 among “opportunity sites” for downtown development. No. 2 is the former lumber yard on East Judd Street. But no development is imminent. “In a practical sense, we see the Die Cast site as the first priority and the Public Works Yard as a later phase,” Anderson said in an email, “once we

have achieved both a greater downtown development momentum as well as funding in the TIF, which would be required to move the existing Public Works facility.” The tax increment financing district also might be used to pay off part of the loan from Chicago Trust. Anderson reported the city had no projected timeline or budget to move the Public Works

In other action last week, the council: n Authorized the city manager temporarily to approve special events on private property without going through the normal permit process. Stelford said that would streamline approval for temporary additions such as tents, which have been put up at Red Mill Tavern and 3 Brothers Restaurant to serve outside diners while inside dining is still not allowed under the state’s COVID-19 restrictions. The authority will expire Dec. 31. n Revised parking rules along Throop Street north of Cass Street to accommodate food pickup from restaurants that now are depending on carryout and delivery business. A twohour spot next to Ethereal Confections was changed to 15-minute parking, as was a loading zone space in front of Chop Suey Hut that can now be used by anyone. n Added a parking spot for the disabled in the lot at the Recreation Center on Lake Avenue. See DOWNTOWN, Page 3

IN BRIEF

Continued from page 2

City street work begins with Oct. 31 finish date

n Hired low bidder RoadSafe Traf-

Woodstock

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY LARRY LOUGH

Large bins for grain storage sit empty just blocks from Woodstock’s downtown area. Owner DeLong Co. agreed to demolish structures on the site before the city buys the 1-acre property.

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Council moves to help business Loan program, fee waivers aim to cushion effects ofWoodstock virus life adjusts to crisis Published every Wednesday | Est. 1987 | Serving Woodstock, Wonder Lake and Bull Valley, Ill. | www.thewoodstockindependent.com | $1.00

By Larry Lough

call last week, council members voted unanimously for a $500,000 smallbusiness loan program and other forms of assistance. Despite a few technical glitches during the 77-minute meeting, business was conducted on a short agenda of emergency actions, and public comments were submitted by phone and

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City funds will provide short-term operating cash to offset losses suffered by Woodstock’s small businesses because of the coronavirus. In a midweek emergency meeting conducted by a telephone conference

City Council continues to expand aid program for businesses

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COMMUNITY

Local seamstresses making masks for coronavirus needs

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email. Mayor Brian Sager noted during the meeting that the public health situation was “very fluid and changing rap-Lough By Larry idly” as the city triedLARRY@THE to take actions to WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM blunt the impact of COVID-19 on local businesses. Information on the website of the City officials expect businesses to Woodstock Public Library was revised

without visit to doctor’s office

With orders to stay home, you have lots of time to read

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After event cancellations, Opera House rescheduling

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INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY KEN FARVER Marketplace 10

“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.

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was a factor in that decision. “With fuel being so cheap now, and with most people working from home,

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.

$8.6 million in 2020 streets plan

That would be the start in a five-year program that could spend up to $60 million to upgrade streets throughout

to ease the we didn’t think that would have suchThe a Woodstock. CallWoodstock’s or emailpackage for details By Larry Lough financial effects of the coronavirus big impact,” Stelford said. The City Council is expected to Woodstock Offer good for addresses in in60097 will not include a delay the city’s& 60098 The city is counting on that tax to approve contracts next week for resurIndependent

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

See COVID-19, Page 2

HOOFING FOR HOPE

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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.

Classroom work done from home by students, teachers

‘Essential businesses’ keep working during health crisis

schOOls

had been canceled until May 8, not mid-April as was hoped. In a posting by Director Daniel

PAGE 10

SCHOOLS

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MARKETPLACE

See Page that 3 programming lastBUSINESS, week to reflect

MARKETPLACE

DOING THE ‘Telehealth’ RIGHT THINGS gets patients seen

PAGE 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

LARRY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

new motor fuel tax of 3 cents a gallon, which goes into effect April 1. City Manager Roscoe Stelford said the recent plunge in gasoline prices

generate about $300,000 a year to more street 671 E.facing Calhoun St., than 200 Plans for“segments” a slightly reduced program help pay off a $10 million, 20-year this year. Five contractors submitted in Woodstock Woodstock, IL 60098 of street resurfacing bond that would finance an extensive bids on the work, which was divided Phone: 815-338-8040 were expected to be considered Tuesstreet resurfacing program in 2020. See TAX, Page 4 Council, which Fax: 815-338-8177 day night by the City Thewoodstock independent.com

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

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

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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.

See STREETS, Page 2

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Woodstock’s $8.6 million street improvement program for 2020 got underway last week with work in and around the downtown. Plote Construction of Hoffman Estates won the contract to resurface more than 19 lane miles of city streets by Oct. 31. The city bid the project in four quadrants to try to spread the work around, but Plote was the low bidder for all phases of the work. The city reported work will take place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Drivers are urged to be careful in the construction areas. Trash collection will continue as usual during this work. A project website shows each street in this year’s program, what quadrant it is in, and the current schedule for work on each street. The information is at hlreng.maps. arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/ index.html... For more information, call 815-338-6118. A Lamp of Schaumburg also is working to complete 2019 street improvements that didn’t get done.

June 10-16, 2020

fic Systems of Romeoville for up to $90,000 to paint stripes on city streets. n Bought two pickup trucks for a total of $49,680 from Roesch Ford of Bensenville through the Suburban Purchasing Contract, and authorized two Chevy Silverado trucks be sold, donated, or otherwise disposed of. n Offered no comments on a 4½-page update on use of city facilities – including parks, the Opera House, and Rec Center – prepared by city staff to comply with state regulations under COVID-19. The staff report ended, “Council’s direction is requested.” Having heard nothing from council members, Stelford said, “We’ll continue to proceed as planned.” The report says the city is looking to resume City Band concerts on the Square next month, with social-distancing requirements in mind. “The Mayor and City Administration continue to work with the City Band Directors to determine the start date, currently reviewing July 1,” the report says, “and the number of concerts that could be offered this summer. ...” It notes the opening of District 200 schools on Aug. 17 would result in the loss of student band members.

3 THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

DOWNTOWN

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June 10-16, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

OBITUARIES Alice Erber, 98

Alice Erber, 98, of Chandler, Ariz., formerly of Woodstock, died Monday, June 1, two months short of her 99th birthday. She was born in Chicago to Charles and Sara Bentsen and moved to Woodstock in the 1920s. She was a graduate of Woodstock High School class of 1938 and worked Alice Erber for Illinois Bell/ AT&T until her retirement. She married George Erber in January of 1959. Alice was known for her generous spirit and willingness to offer help to anyone in need. She was a lifetime member of the Woodstock Moose Lodge, an avid bowler and card player, and was active in Grace Lutheran Church, Woodstock. She volunteered at the Woodstock Food Pantry, delivered Meals on Wheels, and was always a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her

PUBLIC SAFETY LOG

Woodstock Police Department

■ Jennifer J. Caldwell, 48, Woodstock, was arrested May 27 in the 300 block of McHenry Avenue on a charge of theft. Bond $100. Released with notice to appear. Court date June 11. ■ Jodi A. Clewis, 43, Wonder Lake, was arrested May 21 in the 900 block of Lake Avenue on a McHenry County warrant charging failure to appear. Released on personal recognizance. Court date June 10. ■ Matthew D. Looper, 30, Woodstock, was arrested May 23 in the 600 block of St. John’s Road on two counts of domestic battery. Taken to jail. Bond and court date to be set. ■ Katie J. Grizely, 39, Woodstock, was arrested May 28 in the 1000 block of Wheeler Street on a charge of criminal damage to property and two counts of domestic battery. Taken to jail. Bond and court date to be set. ■ Matthew D. Looper, 30, Crystal Lake, was arrested May 27 in the 600 block of St. John’s Road, on a charge of violating an order of protection. Taken to jail. Bond and court date to be set. ■ Jeffrey M Bylina, 47, Alsip, was arrested May 30 in the 1000 block of Lake Avenue on charges of aggravated battery to a peace officer and resisting a peace officer. Taken to jail. Bond and court date to be set. ■ Kenyatta J. Wright, 45, Madison, Wis., was arrested May 31 in the 900 block of Lake Avenue on a charge of

EMERGENCY CARE extended family will miss her dearly. She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Roy and Benny Bentsen; a sister, Hazel Lockinger; her husband, George; a son, Steve Wood; and a stepson, George, Jr. Survivors include her daughter-inlaw, Pat Wood, Woodstock; stepdaughter-in-law, Barbara Erber, Ingleside; a stepson Bruce (Pat) Erber of Waipahu, Hawaii; six grandchildren, Jennifer (John) Amaya, Naples, Fla., Mike (Jennifer) Wood, Wonder Lake, Jeff (Noelle) Erber, Edwardsville, Jason (Colleen) Erber, McHenry, Dana (Keoki) Kaeo, and Brad (Tami) Erber of Hawaii; and many beloved nieces and nephews. Because of the COVID-19 restrictions, burial will be private at McHenry County Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Grace Evangelical Church, Woodstock, or Hospice of the Valley, Phoenix, Ariz., at hov.org. Wait Ross Allanson Funeral & Cremation Services, 201 S. Main St., Algonquin, is assisting the family. 847-658-4232 or lairdfamilyfuneralservices.com.

driving with license revoked. Bond $2,500. Released with notice to appear. Court date July 23. ■ Wendy A. Koss, 48, Woodstock, was arrested June 2 in the 200 block of South Jefferson Street on charges of driving under the influence, driving with license suspended, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and resisting a peace officer. Bonds $3,000 and $100. Released on personal recognizance. Court dates June 25 and July 23. ■ Julio C. Mondragon-Morales, 42, Rockford, was arrested June 4 in the 1000 block of Country Club Road on charges of speeding and no valid driver’s license. Released after posting 10 percent of $2,500 bond. Court date July 17. ■ Luke A. Sams, 22, Marengo, was arrested June 5 in the 700 block of North Eastwood Drive on charges of obstruction of justice, driving under the influence, unlawful possession of cannabis (drive), and improper lane usage. Taken to jail. Bonds $3,000 and to be set. Court dates July 31 and to be set.

McHenry County Sheriff’s Office

■ Louise M. Welch, 63, Wonder Lake, was arrested May 26 on a charge of violating an order of protection. ■ Justin P. Johnson, 44, Woodstock, was arrested May 28 on charges of domestic battery/physical contact/prior and domestic battery/bodily harm/prior. ■ Courtney F. Jayhan, 29, Woodstock,

PHOTO BY ALEX VUCHA, WOODSTOCK FIRE/RESCUE DISTRICT

One of seven people involved in a two-vehicle accident is wheeled to a waiting helicopter from LifeNet for transport to Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge. Two patients were airlifted to out-ofcounty hopitals and two others were taken to local hospitals by ambulance after the collision at U.S. 14 and Route 120 (Washington Street) shortly before 4 p.m. Thursday. Three others refused treatment at the scene. Woodstock Fire/Rescue reported the wreck involved a minivan and a truck pulling a trailer. Woodstock police were investigating but released no further information.

was arrested May 30 on four counts of aggravated battery of a peace officer, aggravated battery/public place, aggravated battery/judge/EMT, battery causing bodily harm, and resisting a peace officer/corrections employee. Charges are only accusations of crimes, and defendants are presumed innocent until proved guilty.

Woodstock Fire/Rescue District EMS calls for May 28-June 3: 65 Fire Runs May 28

4:40 a.m. – 400 block of Borden Street, malfunctioning alarm system sounded; truck May 29

10:35 a.m. – 900 block of Marvel Avenue, gas leak (natural or LP); truck 11:40 a.m. – 600 block of Dean Street, unintentional detector activation, no fire; shift commander, engine, ambulance 5:27 p.m. – 11700 block of Thayer Road, Hebron, assist police or other agency; truck 8:08 p.m. – 18300 Collins Road, assist police or other agency; engine 8:17 p.m. – 700 block of Oak Street, heat from short circuit (defective/worn wiring); shift commander, ambulance, truck May 30

5:24 a.m. – 1200 block of Lake Avenue, chemical hazard (no spill or leak); engine 4:39 p.m. – 14500 block of Perkins Road, building fire; chief, shift

commander, truck, two engines, two tenders May 31

1:09 p.m. – 500 block of McHenry Avenue, removal of victim(s) from stalled elevator; truck, shift commander 4:35 p.m. – U.S. 14 and Kishwaukee Valley Road, traffic accident with injuries; ambulance, engine, shift commander June 1

12:12 p.m. – 600 block of Dean Street, unintentional detector activation, no fire; engine 2:59 p.m. – 100 block of Queen Anne Road, unintentional smoke detector activation, no fire; shift commander 11:21 p.m. – 4400 block of of Route 47, traffic accident with injuries; ambulance, shift commander, engine June 2

2:49 a.m. – 1700 block of Wicker Street, malfunctioning CO detector activation; engine 5:57 p.m. – 2200 block of Lake Avenue outside rubbish, trash or waste fire; engine 7:35 p.m. – 2200 block of Lake Avenue outside rubbish, trash or waste fire; engine June 3

5:29 p.m. – 1200 block of Lake Avenue, gas leak (natural or LP); engine 7:01 p.m. – 300 block of McHenry Avenue, traffic accident with injuries; ambulance, shift commander, truck 8:25 p.m. – Seminary Avenue and Greenwood Circle, gas leak (natural or LP); truck

With business down, outside dining priority

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY LARRY LOUGH

Utility lines were being marked Friday, the day after the Historic Preservation Commission approved the first phase of a project that will dig up this grassy area next to the Old Courthouse to build a new patio for Public House restaurant at the northwest corner of Johnson and Jackson streets. Commissioners asked the fence be preserved.

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First visible sign of changes in the Old Courthouse project will be landscaping work. The grassy area at the northwest corner of Johnson and Jackson streets will be dug up to allow an additional patio for outside dining by Public House customers. “They believe it to be crucial to them making a good recovery,” City Planner Darrell Moore told the Historic Preservation Commission last week. Owners Kathryn and Brian Loprino did not attend the Thursday night meeting because that was the first day of reopening their patio on the north side the the Old Courthouse steps since closing the business in late March because of the statewide shelter-inplace order. They have since been limited to pickup and delivery sales. The commission approved the first phase of developing a smaller patio on the south side of the steps to the front entrance. Moore explained that will involve digging up about 80 percent of the 35-by-26-foot grassy area, leaving a grass strip on the perimeter of a bed of crushed limestone, where tables will be placed for outside dining as allowed under current state guidelines for restaurants. An open-sided tent will be put up to protect diners from rain. But commissioners balked at approving further development of that area until they have more details of what Moore called a “highly conceptualized drawing.” “There are too many questions we don’t have answers to now,” Commissioner Marti Dejon said. Other members agreed. The second phase of the patio project would involve installation on brick pavers over the limestone, similar to the restaurants other patio, as well as small trees, raised planter boxes, and a fire pit. The commission put some conditions on their approval, however, to ensure some historic features of the 1857 building are maintained. The first phase of work will involve removing a section of fence next to a southside door to allow easier access to the kitchen for delivery of food to diners. The fence apparently dates to the construction of the Sheriff’s House next door in 1887, and members wanted to ensure the iron fencing was stored for future use as the project progresses.

“There has to be a way to reuse it,” Chairman Donovan Day said. The other historical concern was in preserving what Day described as a “nice, brick-lined cistern” underground in the middle of that area, accessed through a manhole. Although it’s no longer needed for stormwater retention, commissioners believe the original feature of the Old Courthouse should be preserved. Moore said the patio could be built around the manhole cover, as was done on the existing patio to the north. Although the new patio had been discussed, COVID-19 restrictions gave the project some urgency. “It’s just never been an official proposal,” Moore said. “Only now are they moving it forward.”

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

By Larry Lough

LARRY@THE WOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

OPINION

June 10-16, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

Opinion Warnings about health are not always heeded

On a perfect early June morning Saturday, hundreds of people showed up prepared for the first day that the Woodstock Farmers Market had been on the Square this year. Some people were unprepared. By The Independent’s unofficial observation during an 11 a.m. lap around the Square, about 90 percent of the people were wearing face masks as a precaution against the spread of the still-serious coronavirus. Those 10 percent bare-faced folks might be some of the same people who disregarded advisories about masks and social distancing as they crowded around a local tavern May 29 for a party to celebrate the first day of Phase 3 of the Restore Illinois plan, when restaurants were allowed to offer food service outside on their premises. That event earned the owner a “notice of violation,” which involved a hearing this week with the city’s liquor commissioner (mayor) on whether the establishment’s liquor license should be suspended. We say the pandemic is still serious because over the past week ending Sunday, McHenry County reported 149 new positive cases of COVID-19 and 10 additional deaths. That brought the county’s totals since the first death was reported 11 weeks ago to 1,733 infections and 83 lives lost. Illinois has one of the most restrictive programs for “flattening the curve” of new coronavirus cases, yet the state meets only three of the five benchmarks considered critical to reopening the state to full social and economic activity. The state reportedly has seen a 10 percent drop in daily new coronavirus cases over two weeks and a 5 percent drop in cases in one week; conducted at least 150 tests per 100,000 people each day; and had below 60 percent occupancy of ICU beds in hospitals. Illinois has not, however, had below 5 percent of coronavirus tests coming back positive over a week and not had fewer than four daily new coronavirus cases per 100,000 people each day. Do we expect everyone to follow the guidance of health professionals who say masks and social distancing are important to our recovery and a resumption of a somewhat

Cheryl Wormley

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Paul Wormley Co-Owner

Woodstock, IL • 1987

THE EDITORIAL BOARD

Cheryl Wormley Larry Lough Sandy Kucharski Ken Farver

I’s a birthday party, Dad, not Halloween. Put your teeth in.

Gloria, be careful. You’re strangling Whiskers.

Virtual Family Fun normal life? Of course not. After all, 2020 marks 55 years since the Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act of 1965 required a warning on cigarette packages: “Caution: Cigarette Smoking May Be Hazardous to Your Health.” Do you know anyone who still smokes?

EDITORIAL CARTOON BY JIM MANSFIELD

That doesn’t mean we should not continue to encourage them to quit that dangerous habit – so they and we can stop inhaling the deadly chemicals from the smoke. Just as we should keep urging our neighbors to wear masks in public – for the good of their health and ours.

» YOUR VIEW

Church has to be more than another building

Some people see limiting the ability of places of worship to open their doors and continue as though we are not in the midst of a pandemic as state persecution. The question I ask is this: What is a place of worship? There is a song sung in Christian churches called “We Are the Church”: The church (synagogue, mosque, temple) is not a building. The church is not a steeple. The church is a not a dwelling place. The church is the PEOPLE. We do not have to be in a building to worship together. My church

has worship services every Sunday morning on Zoom. We pray, sing hymns, enjoy special music played or sung by soloists, read scripture, hear a sermon, take communion all from the safety of our own homes. Seeing the faces of all those participating gives me a sense of community. On Palm Sunday, members were sent a template to draw palm branches that they could wave during the service. Some cut branches from trees or bushes in their yards. We had services on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday on Zoom. We also do not have to be in a building together to continue our ministries.

n We have a Bible study each week on Zoom. n All of the church’s committees continue their work by using Zoom to meet. n We have participated in Bread for the World’s Offering of Letters for a number of years. Since we couldn’t do that in person this year, we had a virtual Offering of Letters. n To celebrate Earth Day, we had a virtual Green Living Fair spread out over several weeks. n Both the Crystal Lake and Woodstock interfaith food pantries continue to serve clients. Food donations and volunteers to staff the pantries are still needed.

What all faith groups need to be asking themselves is, “How can we continue to be the church (synagogue, mosque, temple) and serve the needs of people during this time? What new doors are opening for us? What is God calling us to do? Are we willing to change?” Ann Legg Woodstock

Disappointed in report on local BLM protest

I thought [The Independent] provided very poor coverage of and

Continued on Next page

even downplayed the May 31, 2020, Black Lives Matter peaceful protest march on the Woodstock Square in which hundreds of young protesters participated. In fact, I was shocked that your poor quality black-and-white photo depicted very few marchers along with a sparse cut-and-dried description of the protest march alongside it. When I looked through the newspaper, I could hardly find the coverage to begin with. If you had attended (did you?), you would know that the march was comprised of around 85 percent of young people who were also the organizers of the march. Mass protest marches have been occurring in the days since George Floyd was

the news and sending it out.” At least once a year, until his death in 2013, he challenged me with, “You have one of the best weekly newspapers in Illinois. You should be charging a lot more.” Thanks to those of you who weighed in and to Doug Ray and Don Peasley, changes are being made – subscription rate and newsstand price increases.

Hooray! Fireworks!

I am so excited. Woodstock will have fireworks July 4 at Emricson Park. For the 26th time, the fireworks will be a joint effort of the community, the fireworks committee, city staff, the Public Works Department, the Police Department, and the Woodstock Fire/ Rescue District. To be compliant with the Restore Illinois mandates, everyone will need to use the South Street entrance to the park, arriving in a vehicle (car, truck, van, etc.). To help pay for the fireworks, each vehicle will pay $10. This year, people cannot walk in or sit on the sledding hill or on or near baseball fields. People will need to stay in or by to their vehicles. Between now and the week of the fireworks, the fireworks committee hopes to raise $16,000. You can help by donating to Woodstock Fireworks Committee Fundraiser on Facebook (share the post, too) or by sending a check to Woodstock Fireworks Fund, c/o Advia Credit Union, P.O. Box 1930, Woodstock, IL 60098. Cheryl Wormley is publisher of The Woodstock Independent. Her email address is c.wormley@thewoodstockindependent.com.

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killed in Minneapolis, Minn. Since that day, huge masses of people are protesting his killing, not just in the United States, but in protests all around the world. Furthermore, not only were the Woodstock organizers young people, they also attracted many people of color who all together participated peacefully in lying on the ground to emphasize the position Mr. Floyd was in when he died. There was a lot of emotion in the marchers’ voices and also could be seen in bystanders. I saw more than one person get tears in their eyes as the students got down on the ground in the street with their hands crossed behind their backs, in reference to the deceased Mr. Floyd.

You had your chance to participate in the worldwide news coverage with the peaceful protest march that occurred in our small town of Woodstock that showed unity among races and that was supported by so many. I was very disappointed in the small amount of importance and respect that the march was shown by the coverage in The Woodstock Independent. I really agree now that young people are our best hope. Susan Richards Woodstock Note to readers: Organizers of the event did not notify The Independent about the rally and march.

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absolutely love your paper. My partner and I are fairly new to the area and reading your paper has helped us feel like a part of the community. Cheryl It’s also pointed Wormley us towards some Declarations activities we never would have [known about] otherwise. I would gladly pay 75 dollars a year for your paper. More than that if you needed it.” • A decades-long subscriber emailed: “I would be willing to pay considerably more to continue receiving the paper. I prefer print but whatever delivery method is most cost effective is fine. Other than the hairdresser, this is my major source of info on Woodstock and certainly more reliable than the hairdresser. I would miss it, were you to cease publication. Whatever the cost and however you get it to me, I’m in.” Everyone who responded said they would pay more, because they “depend on The Independent .” That’s a pat-on-the-back for our editor, writers, and staff, who keep their eyes and ears open at all times and stay connected so they know what’s happening, can ferret out the facts, and get needed information to our print and website readers and Facebook and Instagram followers. I remember talking with the legendary Don Peasley back in 1987 when Denise Graff Ponstein and I were starting The Independent Don said, “Be sure your subscription rate is high enough to support your hard work gathering

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

June 10-16, 2020

I’m back! I thank Larry Lough for writing Declarations last week. I needed a break, and I think you did, too. Larry writes really good columns as evidenced by “’Man bites dog’ is news defined.” Thanks to all of you who called and sent emails in response to the last paragraph in Declarations two weeks ago. A bit of review seems in order. ”How’s The Independent doing?” was the title of that column. I shared that through the years, advertising had been The Independent’s primary source of revenue – about 80 percent. Even without COVDID-19, many businesses have and are moving their marketing and advertising away from newspapers, cutting into our primary revenue source. COVID-19 just made matters worse. It has been evident to our leadership team for several years that we needed to move away from advertising as our primary revenue stream. During that time, Doug Ray, publisher of the Daily Herald, Chicagoland’s third largest daily newspaper, told us our subscription rates and newsstand prices were way too low. He said more than 50 percent of our revenue should come from subscriptions and newsstand sales. All of that led to my column two weeks ago and specifically to the two questions in the last paragraph: “How much are your willing to pay?” for the high-quality reporting by our staff; and “What kind of news delivery do you prefer?” Here are excerpts from two of you – someone fairly new to the community and someone who grew up in Woodstock. • “ I’m a new subscriber and I

Woodstock

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

Readers respond – and fireworks!

The

I NDEPENDENT

SCHOOLS

June 10-16, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

Schools

Career educators remember good times Retirements come at odd time to end long tenures for faculty, staff members Gigi Carlson

By Tricia Carzoli THE INDEPENDENT

Experienced teachers and first-year teachers alike experienced a unique end of the school year. But for those educators in Woodstock School District 200 who were hoping to say goodbye to their students or staff in person for the last time, this year was especially difficult. D-200 has 27 faculty and staff members retiring this year, most of whom had expected the end of their career looking much different than it did. But COVID-19 could not tarnish the memories of a lifetime of adventures with students, staff, administrators and aides.

Robert ‘Bob’ Teuber

“It’s been a great ride,” Bob Teuber, fifth-grade teacher at Westwood Elementary School, said of his upper elementary school career. That metaphor is as much a part of his career in education as it is in his personal life. An avid cyclist, Teuber frequently included outdoor activities in his early teaching career, starting up a camping program during his first years at Dean Street School that carried over to his Westwood days. “It was important to me to make sure that my time with them was a healthy balance of learning and fun,” Teuber said. “You have to have a little of both. I don’t think the memories come from the curriculum; the memories come from visiting the Challenger Center, camping, and doing the more unique things.” Teuber was hired by Bob Bosman and Bob Schuette, back when current Superintendent Mike Moan was in high school “I’ve been blessed to have had a career that has touched many lives and one in which many lives have touched mine,” he said. “I’ve worked with wonderful staff and mostly wonderful administrators.” Indeed, Teuber has worked under four superintendents and 11 principals as he worked at Dean Street for 10 years and 22 years at Westwood. “It had always been a dream of mine to live and work in the same town,” he

COURTESY PHOTO

Elementary school teacher Bob Teuber was a favorite of students. He’s shown here with Joanne Thornburg.

“I am thankful that I ended my career at a time when I was still enjoying teaching and had fun with it.”

- Robert “Bob’Teuber

said. “And I was able to do that. Teuber graduated with a degree in business from Northern Illinois University, but after some long-term traveling and biking trips, he decided he wanted to pursue a career in education. He went back to school at the National College of Education, now National Louis University.

“I have no regrets,” he said. “I haven’t loved every day, but I’ve loved every year. I am thankful that I ended my career at a time when I was still enjoying teaching and had fun with it.” As a cyclist, he frequently bikes around town and often stops at soccer games or baseball games to see whether any of his former students are playing. “I will probably continue that,” he said. “My first students are in their mid40s now, but I love catching up with them and seeing what they are doing.” The rest of his retirement plans include working on his model trains, bicycling, and traveling.

Gigi Carlson, Challenge Corps instructional enrichment coach, also ends her tenure in the district under COVID-19 eLearning. “It was an interesting time,” Carlson said. “It was different. We all tried our best.” But eLearning was just one adventure in a lifetime of adventures for the career educator. “I took the scenic route,” she said. She took classes at McHenry County College and Rockford College before becoming a teacher at 32 with two children of her own in D-200 schools. “Teaching was in my blood,” she explained. “My parents were both teachers in D-200. Ed LeCrone taught art, and Darlene LeCrone was a second-grade teacher “I think people dive into whatever field interests them,” Carlson said. “Teaching worked well as a fit for our family. I wanted to have the same schedule as my children.” Carlson began teaching at Dean Street School at a time when class sizes were well over 30. Teuber had a loft in his classroom, and Carlson and other teachers followed his lead. “Parents came together, people donated lumber, students worked on sanding. We called it a barn-raising,” Carlson said. “We could get eight students on the loft and not have to have students sitting outside in the hall.” Carlson said Teuber was a personal and professional mentor for her, and she was particularly impressed with his camping experience program. She spent two years at the new Crystal Lake Hannah Beardsley Middle School, where she taught sixth-grade, before realizing her schedule was quite different from her own children’s. She found herself back at Westwood for fourth- and fifth-grade rotations before moving on to the gifted program, which would end up being the Challenge Corps for grades four through eight. “I ended up teaching five grades in four different buildings,” Carlson said. “I have taught in every building – including Greenwood – except for Prairiewood and Olson.” Continued on Next page

Continued from Previous page

“I always tell them to stay in the struggle, because the struggle is where you learn.”

- Gigi Carlson

ferent way – every day.” That catchphrase led her students to donate a mural at the Westwood lunchroom. Her encouragement in problemsolving propelled her students to earn

See RETIREMENT, Page 10

Who’s retiring, when they started Debbie Belmonte, secretary, WHS (1996) Jane Benda, biliteracy teacher, CMS (1996) Mary Anderson Blietz, counselor, WNHS (1986) Jacqueline Budmayr, secretary, special ed (1995) Gigi Carlson, enrichment coach, D-200 (1992) Dale Alan Daugherity, industrial tech, WNHS (2008) Diana Frisbie, principal, OES (1985) Debbie Guild, Spanish teacher, WNHS (2003) Rich Hodges, head custodian, GWE (2007) Harold Hunt, mechanic (2010) Cheryl Kremske, third-grade teacher, GWE (1998) Sandra E. Metcalf, associate, Dean (1997) Beth Miller. preK, VDZ (1984,1993) Robert Reed, bus driver (2007)

Mark Rusk, bus driver (2007) Vickie L. Schmarje, second-grade teacher, WWE (1997) Jodie Scott, library specialist, MEES (1985) Kathleen Shea, sixth-grade language arts, CMS (1987) Bill Summers, courier (2006) Mary Takoy, bus driver (2013) Robert B. Teuber, fifth-grade teacher, WWE (1988) Steven T. Thompson, industrial arts, (WHS 2007) Denise Wedoff, associate, WWE (1992) Gary Wedoff, custodian, PWE (2013) Robert Welzen Sr., head custodian, WWE (2008) Patti Williams, special ed facilitator, D-200 (1992) Barb Wilson, associate, GWE (1994)

Woodstock resident Stephanie Swanson from Miami University’s Project Dragonfly has published an original article titled “Into the Sea! The Plight of Our World’s Sea Turtles” in Sevenseas, a community publication for marine conservation and ecotravel media. In the article Swanson writes about what threats sea turtles face today. Swanson is a graduate of Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, through Project Dragonfly’s Advanced Inquiry Program. As an AIP student, Swanson took courses on the web from Miami University while also participating in experiential learning and field study at Chicago Zoological Society’s Brookfield Zoo. Swanson is a special education associate for Woodstock School District 200.

Two local students receive scholarships from Defenders Two Woodstock High School students are among three recipients of $1,000 scholarships from the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County. Seniors Tyler Butler and Jasmine Villavicencio, along with Haley Wegener of Prairie Ridge High School in Crystal Lake, were awarded the scholarships for graduating seniors who plan to pursue a major or minor Tyler course of stud- Butler ies related to the environment at an accredited college or university. Butler will attend Drake University with a double major in environmental sustainability and resilience/management and possible minor in zoo and conservation science. He was active in his school’s Green Club and Blue Planet Club Villavicencio will Jasmine study environmen- Villavicencio tal science at the University of Tampa. She is the first recipient of the Environmental Defenders’ new Latino Environmental Scholarship, made possible through the Gerry and Bill Cowlin Foundation. The grant will also be used to help fund the Defenders’ general Latino Outreach Program, of which the scholarship is a part.

SCHOOLS

Her husband, Bruce, became a fixture in the district, assisting in building lofts at Dean, helping to haul supplies and robots to different buildings and events, and supporting Carlson in every way. Carlson reminisced about the many accomplishments her students achieved. “I always tell them to stay in the struggle,” she said. “Because the struggle is where you learn. I always want them to see the world in a new and dif-

many honors, including the opportunity to present their project at the First Lego League Open European Championship in Mannheim, Germany. To pay for that trip, the community pulled together $22,000 in four weeks to send the students overseas. To give back to the community, the group had a little more than $2,000 left, which was used to put a peace sign in Peace Park by the Woodstock police station. Carlson hopes to spend time outdoors, gardening, painting, woodworking, visiting her children, traveling with her husband, and supporting her former students at athletic events, concerts, and performances. She wants her students to know that they will forever be a part of her life – both in and out of the classroom. “I want my students to ask themselves every day how they can make a difference in the world,” Carlson said. “I will have done my job if they stay in the struggle, if they problem-solve, and if they use their intellect to make a difference.”

Miami University grad publishes original work

June 10-16, 2020

COURTESY PHOTOS

Gigi Carlson, enrichment coach and coordinator of the Challenge Corps, watches over students during a Tech Night program.

Olson Elementary School Principal Diana Frisbie said she had been “blessed to work with District 200 for almost 35 years.” With three children of her own as D-200 graduates, she has experienced being parent, educator, and administrator. During her tenure, she has been an elementary teacher and instructional coach at Greenwood, Dean, Clay, and Westwood, and an administrator at Verda Dierzen and Olson. “I feel a deep sense of pride at our district’s consistent responses to the needs of the community through programs such as dual language, a special education continuum of services, the integration of technology, athletics, music, and the arts,” she said, “and now our incredibly positive and proactive response to instructional changes due to COVID-19.” Frisbie is proud of the fact that the district has always had students and families as its focus, but she also appreciated how the district provided educational experiences and relationships that lend themselves to connecting with the Woodstock community. “I’m also grateful to the amazing educational partners I’ve worked with throughout my career,” she said, crediting “strong and influential” leaders, teachers, school board members, support staff, nursing staff, and paraprofessionals. As principal at Olson Elementary for the past seven years, Frisbie valued the “exceptional

IN BRIEF

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

Diana Frisbie

June 10-16, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

COLLEGE CURRENTS Morgan Goodnow on dean’s list at Albion

Woodstock student Morgan Goodnow was named to the spring 2020 dean’s list at Albion College in Albion, Mich. Goodnow, a biochemistry major, is the daughter of Frederick and Amy Goodnow of Woodstock

Darbi O’Connor earns B.S. degree at Findlay

Darbi O’Connor of Woodstock has graduated from the University of Findlay in Findlay, Ohio. He earned a Bachelor of Science in animal science. The university plans an in-person commencement event in the fall

SCHOOLS

Area students in line for UW-Milwaukee degrees

Two students from the Woodstock area are among 3,600 prospective candidates for degrees at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee commencement exercises rescheduled for Sunday, Oct. 10, in Milwaukee. Jacob Oteman of Woodstock will receive a Bachelor of Science from the College of Nursing, and Abbigail Wember of Bull Valley will receive a

Bachelor of Arts from the College of Letters and Science.

Saint Mary’s dean’s list includes local students

Mary Elsinger and Kaitlin McCann were named to the spring 2020 dean’s list at Saint Mary’s College in Notre Dame, Ind.

Camryn Tafoya makes honor roll at Mississippi

Camryn Tafoya of Woodstock was recently named to spring 2020 chancellor’s honor roll at the University of Mississippi in Oxford, Miss.

Two from Woodstock on St. Norbert dean’s list

Lucca Kenyon and Abigail Primus from Woodstock have been named to the 2020 spring semester dean’s list at St. Norbert College in De Pere, Wis.

Lizzy Kruse receives degrees from U of Iowa

Lizzy Kruse of Woodstock graduated summa cum laude from the University of Iowa in Iowa City May 16 with degrees in mathematics and cell and developmental biology.

RETIREMENT

Continued from Page 9

and wonderful students and families who are involved, positive, and resilient.”

“I’m grateful to the amazing educational partners I’ve worked with throughout my career.”

- Diana Frisbie

She believes that the district is building young people of character, she said, and she knows the high standards for respect, responsibility, and rigorous learning that have been developed in D-200 schools will continue to benefit them throughout their lives. As Frisbie leaves D-200, she does not leave education in its entirety. She will be director of elementary education and licensure at Aurora University’s Woodstock Center. She will educate other teachers, sharing her own joy of teaching with those who will implement new lessons and educational experiences in their own classrooms. “This fall I will work with D-200 and AU to implement the Teach McHenry County Teacher Residency

COURTESY PHOTO

Diana Frisbie, principal of Olson Elementary School, was with District 200 for 35 years.

Grant program,” she said. Frisbie will work with the first cohort of students who will partner with teachers in D-200 classrooms during the day while taking AU courses in the evening. The goal is to have those AU students obtain a teaching license at the end of the year.

PICTURE THIS

Dignitaries pose for a photo at the 1964 opening of the Timbers Restaurant, corner of Routes 47 and 14 in Woodstock. Pictured, from left, are Woodstock Sentinel publisher Bill Burfiendt, owners Frank and Mary Ann Mass, Mayor Thore Emricson, Miss Woodstock Nan Lockhart, State Representative A.B. McConnell, and builder Arnold May, Richmond. After the Timbers closed in the 1980s, the location and building were home, first, to Benoy Motors, and, now, Kunes Country.

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

A&E

June 10-16, 2020

Annual show at Emricson Park scheduled July 4 By Larry Lough THE INDEPENDENT

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Although many communities have canceled their fireworks celebrations for Independence Day this year, Woodstock still plans to have a blast. “We will have fireworks,” confirmed Jim Campion, a member of the small committee that organizes the event, now in its 26th year. But, he said, “It won’t be the normal situation.” COVID-19 restrictions that caused other cities to call off their fireworks this year will have an impact on the Woodstock show on Saturday, July 4, at Emricson Park. Although Mad Bomber Fireworks Productions (motto: “We make every show a work of art”) will be back to provide the pyrotechnics, much about the night will change. “There will be no walk-ins allowed,” Campion said, a blow to the show’s revenue since donations from foot traffic is normally $1,500 to $2,000. “But we won’t have any of that.” If you want to watch inside the park, you’ll have to arrive by car or truck, which this year will cost $10 for a vehicle – up $2 from last year to try to make up some of the loss from walk-ins. Vehicles will be allowed in at only the entrance on South Street. And once you’re inside, there will be no roaming around the park. “People will watch from their car or just outside it,” Campion said. “They

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

Want to see fireworks? Don’t be late

INDEPENDENT FILE PHOTO

Colorful bursts like this one from a past fireworks show will be seen this year during Woodstock’s annual Fourth of July event at Emricson Park on Saturday, July 4. Some communities have canceled their shows for this year, but Woodstock will carry on with precautions to avoid the spread of COVID-19. will have to stay in or near the vehicle.” During a normal year, 4,000 to 5,000 people and about 650 cars are admitted to the park for the show, Campion said. But the Park Department, Public Works, and city police were still working on the parking plan last week, so Campion couldn’t say how many vehicles will be permitted this year. Any fireworks shot off will be visible to everyone in the park, because no ground displays are planned this year.

Campion said the committee was trying to raise $16,000 to support the show, which is put on solely with private donations. Many city government services and the Woodstock Fire Rescue District help to keep the event safe, but they provide no funding. A letter was mailed last week seeking donations from various businesses around town, but Campion said the committee might extend fundraising “in a broader sense” in the community. “Some businesses that helped in the

past might be in a little more difficult situation,” he said of how COVID-19 has affected income of retailers, restaurants, and others that have supported the show in previous years. Because the Woodstock show will be among the few in the region this year, Campion urged people not to be late if they want a spot in Emricson Park. “Get to the park a little earlier this time around,” he said. “Only a certain number of cars will be parked.”

ARTS CENTER REOPENS

Copper, brass, bolts, and nuts went into Adwowa Obeng-Osei’s secondplace entry (left) in the 33rd anniversary national show of “Women’s Works: Celebrating Women’s Creativity,” sponsored by the Northwest Area Arts Council. “They Depend on Each Other” and other works of art are on display at the Old Courthouse Arts Center, 101 N. Johnson St., which reopened last week. INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY KEN FARVER

MARKETPLACE

June 10-16, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

Marketplace REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

Transactions filed in the McHenry County Recorder’s Office from May 13 to 18. ■ Residence at 309 Schryver Ave., Woodstock, was sold by Gregory M. Kohlman, Woodstock, to Noe I. Perez, Woodstock, for $154,900. ■ Residence at 3901 Woodstock St., Wonder Lake, was sold by Maria E. Cruz, Wonder Lake, to Michael W. Patterson, Wonder Lake, for $182,000. ■ Residence at 424 Birch Road, Woodstock, was sold by Maria Galvez, Woodstock, to Ana M. Ortiz Garcia, Woodstock, for $162,000. ■ Residence at 1370 Redtail Lane, Woodstock, was sold by D.R. Horton, Inc.-Midwest, Vernon Hills, to Norman D. Siegfried, Woodstock, for $296,880. ■ Right of Way, 0.290 acres, at 12717 Illinois Route 176, Woodstock, was sold by Kolze Property Partnership, Palatine, to State of Illinois Department of Transportation, Schaumburg, for $20,100. ■ Residence at 300 Clover Chase Circle, Woodstock, was sold by Unity Real Estates LLC, Hanover Park, to David R. Lampl, Woodstock, for $206,000. ■ Residence at 1420 Oakleaf, Woodstock, was sold by Gary Rathmann, Woodstock, to Benjamin Farraher, Woodstock, for $179,900. ■ Residence at 8416 Coral Road, Wonder Lake, was sold by Stephen J. Garnes, Barrington, to Richard Barrett, Wonder Lake, for $229,000. ■ Residence at 8307 Concord Drive, Woodstock, was sold by Martin J. Fenton, Aiken, S.C., to Karen Schrank, Bull Valley, for $325,000. ■ Residence at 3515 Middlesex Drive, Woodstock, was sold by Kurt E. Rohloff, Cohasset, Minn., to Bradley Teliszczak, Woodstock, for $420,000.

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

Home sales survive ‘fear factor’ Spring activity arrives late for local housing market By Susan W. Murray

NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

When Berkshire Hathaway sales associate Gay Szara talks to people who sold their homes in 2019, they tell her, “We’re lucky we sold when we did.” For those who fear a repeat of the financial crisis that kicked off in late 2007, real estate agents have some reassuring news. This year’s spring downturn in the real estate market, while the stay-at-home order was in effect for much of the period, differs in an important way from 2007’s realestate-driven crash, BerkshireHathaway agent Rick Bellairs said. “This hasn’t affected prices,” Bellairs said. “It just put the market on hold for a bit.” Indeed, the average 2020 sale price for detached, single-family homes between March 1 and May 31 is up 3 percent from the same period last year (see chart). Agents attribute higher prices – and lower market time – to a decrease in inventory. Kim Keefe of Team Open Doors/ Keefe Real Estate said that, at the end of May, there was just under a four-month supply of houses on the market. When businesses and schools began closing in March, Szara noted a big dive in the housing market. Real estate agents conducted just 162 home showings in the 60098 ZIP code in the last two weeks of March, compared to 467 showings during the same period in 2019, Bellairs reported. “There was a fear factor,” Szara said. Uneasiness about having buyers walk through one’s home, economic uncertainty, and job losses – or anxiety about job security – combined for the 65 percent reduction in home showings.

Steady improvement

Matthew and Laura Hedges listed their house on Sandpiper Lane with Bellairs in mid-February after

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY SUSAN W. MURRAY

The coronavirus pandemic advanced the moving timetable for Bazil and Zachary LaBomascus, here with one-year-old Xavier. While living with Bazil’s parents in Woodstock during the stay-at-home order, the couple have been house-hunting in McHenry County. Once they purchase a home, they’ll sell their condo in Logan Square. Their buying range – houses priced under $300,000 – continues to be the most active sector of the steadily improving local housing market, accounting for 88 percent of the homes sold between March 1 and May 31. buying a fixer-upper on 10 acres in rural Woodstock. With the stay-at-home order looming, “I had a lot of fears,” said Laura, who thought that buyers would “disappear.” Two days after the order went into effect, Bellairs delivered the Hedges the welcome surprise of an offer

that was close to the asking price. While the market always includes people like the Hedgeses whose circumstances mean they have to sell or buy, Bellairs noticed an uptick in activity when people were confident that Phase 3’s limited reopening would happen.

Continued on Next page

Continued from Previous page

Who’s buying?

Sellers include the “right-sizers” as well as those washing their hands of Illinois. Szara helped her sister-in-law, Cheryl Kalsch, sell her McHenry townhome after Kalsch bought a condo in Arizona. Kalsch took the townhome off the market for a week after the stayat-home order went into effect, but Szara suggested she put it back on. Both buyers who toured the property made offers. Kalsch, who cited the state of the state of Illinois and the appeal of hot weather as her reasons for moving, was scheduled to close on the McHenry townhome on June 11 and the Arizona condo the next day. Whether buying, selling, or closing on a property, COVID-19 “has affected every part of the process,”

Illinois’ stay-at-home order depressed home sales this spring, but “it’s not all bad news,” said agent Kim Keefe of Team Open Doors/Keefe Real Estate. Between March 1 and May 31 this year, the number of sold homes and total sales volume decreased from the same period in 2019. On the bright side, the average sale price increased by 3 percent, while sellers, on average, sold their homes in 10 fewer days.

3/1-5/31 3/1-5/31 2019 2020* Number of Sold Units Total Sales Volume

131 $31,782,081

Average Market Time Average Sold Price

99 $24,779, 136

96 days

86 days

$242,611

$250,294

* Source: Midwest Real Estate Data

Szara said. Keefe, who said she had lately perfected her digital presentation skills, often begins the pricing process with a seller via a FaceTime call, asking the seller to walk through and describe the house. She follows up with a short trip out to see the house, ask questions, and take notes. Keefe conducts the follow-up conversation with the seller to set the home price on FaceTime or Zoom. Buyers increasingly rely on online tools to narrow their search before venturing out. Szara said that marketing tools with floor plans and virtual tours, including the selling agent’s narration, are becoming more common. Upon entering a house, the LaBomacuses often find hand sanitizer, shoe coverings, and notes from the seller asking that touching be kept

to a minimum. Agents and buyers are wearing masks and gloves, often provided by the agent. Per state guidelines, no more than four people can look at a house at one time. You can’t “bring three kids and Aunt Sally,” Bellairs said. Once an offer is made, the process of getting a mortgage takes longer than in pre-COVID days, as lenders are being more careful about making loans. Only the buyers attend a property’s closing, with attorneys’ offices handling the transfer of documents and monies. Despite the sea change in the methods of home buying and selling and a sales volume that has not yet returned to a normal spring level, agents sense a positive trend. “Summer is maybe going to be what we normally see in the spring,” Szara said.

Classification of Class 4 for both residential and commercial property by the Insurance Services Office. Class 1 represents an exemplary classification; the county’s previous evaluation was Class 9 The ISO is an independent statistical, rating, and advisory organization that serves the property and casualty insurance industry by collecting information and data on a community’s building code adoption and enforcement practices. The ISO analyzes each community and assigns a classification. The average community in Illinois is Class 6. According to a news release, buildings

constructed to meet current codes protect the health and safety of the occupants during a disaster more effectively and are more resilient after a disaster than buildings that do not meet these standards. The ISO program will apply credits to participating insurers for all new construction within unincorporated McHenry County that has been issued a Certificate of Occupancy in 2019 and forward. To see the complete report, call the county’s Department of Planning and Development at 815-334-4560 or email plandev@mchenrycountyil.gov.

Using the technology

IN BRIEF

Bikeshare program closes two stations in Woodstock

Zagster has shut down the bikeMC bikeshare program – including two stations in Woodstock – a victim of the COVID-19 pandemic, the company announced. Rides were disabled and all rider accounts were closed, the release said. Zagster had established stations with bicycles for rent at the McHenry County Administration Building and next to the Metra station, as well as four other sites in the county.

For information on accounts, email support@zagster.com. “Your elected officials, community leaders, and city have been at the forefront of the micromobility movement – helping people move in smarter, cleaner ways,” the release said. “We have no doubt that they will continue to be part of this movement, and keep you riding into the future.”

County building code earns higher effectiveness grade

The McHenry County building code was recently awarded the Effectiveness

MARKETPLACE

Who’s selling?

‘Not all bad news’

June 10-16, 2020

“Buyers are pretty serious,” Szara said. “They’re not out kicking the tires.” Those active in the market include a group that Keefe says are “rightsizing” – either moving up to get more space or downsizing as children leave the nest. Others include first-time buyers taking advantage of historically low interest rates. On June 4, Bank of America advertised a 3.375 percent rate for a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage and a rate of 2.625 percent for a 15-year, fixed-rate mortgage. People who’ve been confined to quarters appreciate a large outdoor space. Parents of three boys, the Hedges value their “park-like setting,” with mature trees and a pond, during the time of social distancing. And while work offices in the home have become increasingly popular in the past 10 years, Bellairs said, “now it’s even more so,” as people anticipate spending at least some portion of time working from home. Keefe said she had begun to work with two sets of buyers coming out from the city, what she calls “the new wave we’re planning for.” Generally, she said, those buyers are going to work from home all or part of the time; can get more house, space, and amenities (than closer to the city); and are on the train line if they have to go in. Bellairs’ buyers, too, are predominantly from other areas. “They can get a house on five acres in Woodstock for what they’d spend on an ordinary lot with no home

13 THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

Keefe said she saw “really steady traffic after the first week of the shutdown.” In the last week of May, she listed seven houses for sale, including four in Woodstock.

on it in Arlington Heights,” Bellairs said. Keefe is currently working with buyers Bazil and Zachary LaBomascus. The two lived in a condo in Logan Square with their son, 1-year-old Xavier, until the stay-athome order took effect. Then, Bazil, a research coordinator for Northwestern Medicine’s downtown cancer center, and Zachary, a senior paralegal at the law firm Winston and Strawn, along with their son, moved into the Woodstock home of Bazil’s parents. The LaBomascuses had anticipated moving closer to both sets of parents (Zachary’s are in Williams Bay) in a year. The coronavirus pushed the timetable forward. “Initially, we were a bit concerned about trying to buy and sell,” Bazil said. But friends who bought or sold homes in the past two months told them it could be done. “It’s a great distraction,” Bazil said of house-hunting during stay-at-home.

Community

COMMUNITY

June 10-16, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

INDEPENDENT PHOTOS BY TRICIA CARZOLI

Neighbors participate in a flower walk to honor Char and Rol Mess. They said Rol walked 3 miles a day, picking up trash in the Rose Farm Road area.

Neighborhood says farewell

Flower walk organized as memorial for local couple taken by the coronavirus By Tricia Carzoli

NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

“They were able to hold each other’s hands,” Terrie Mess, daughterin-law of Charlotte and Roland Mess, said of the beloved Woodstock residents. “And they saw each other one last time before COVID took them.” As COVID-19 continues to touch the lives of Woodstock residents, one westside neighborhood is mourning the loss of a couple married 62 years – a couple who modeled neighborly values and whose love for each other has kept their family strong during tragedy. Char and Rol Mess’s Midwestern roots began in Illinois, took them to upper Wisconsin, where Rol developed a love of chopping wood, and brought them to Woodstock where they would live for more than 21 years. “My parents were neighborly people,” said Barry Mess, their son. “They were always ready to help others.

… We hope that sharing their story helps others take this more seriously so other families do not have to go

through the same thing our family went through.” Three of the four occupants of the

Mess family home have been diagnosed as COVID positive. Char and Rol passed away; one has recovered. “They all had different symptoms,” Terrie said. “Char had underlying health conditions and had been in the hospital from April 2 through April 14 to address circulation issues due to diabetes complications.”

‘They were together’

A neighbor of Char and Rol Mess places a flower in a basket at the end of the couple’s driveway on Walsh Drive as a memorial to the couple, who died from COVID-19. Residents of the Rose Farm Road neighborhood organized a flower walk last week to honor the Messes.

Char, a 79-year-old avid angler and crafter, had returned home from the hospital after recovering from an amputation. By the evening, she was having trouble breathing and unresponsive. She was taken via ambulance to Northwestern Medicine Huntley, where she tested positive for COVID19 and was placed on a ventilator. Because Char was being treated for COVID-19, Rol’s doctor assumed Rol also had it. He spent about a week at home, self-isolating and treating Continued on Next Page

Char was taken to JourneyCare Hospice in Barrington with heart and kidney issues as well as a bone infection and pneumonia, and Rol followed shortly thereafter. On May 4, Char had her best day yet, according to Terrie and Barry. She enjoyed lunch with Rol, but just 15 hours later she passed away peacefully in her sleep. The woman who would make spaghetti sauce all day to nourish the ones she loved, or take the time to encourage neighbors, friends, or passersby alike, would not be able to have family by her side. “It was hard because she was doing so well, and she left so peacefully,” Barry said, discussing the varied ways in which his parents experienced COVID-19. “But my Dad suffered so much.” Rol was in good shape for his 82 years. He walked 3 miles a day, lifted weights several days a week, and chopped as much wood as he could. Neighbors could always count on him to chop down a tree, collect trash on his daily walk, and wave. Char and Rol shared the bounty from their garden with the local food pantry. Rol was a frequent blood donor and was incredibly proud of an award he received for having donated 10 gallons of blood to the Red Cross. Char and Rol made a good team. “When Char died,” Barry said. “I think that was hard, emotionally, for dad. But he had what are called

INDEPENDENT PHOTO BY TRICIA CARZOLI

Family members of Char and Rol Mess pose at the flower walk that neighbors organized as a memorial to the couple. They include (from left) son Barry Mess, niece Briar Nagle, Charlotte’s sister Cheryl Capocasa, daughter Kim Zambrano, and Terrie Mess (Barry’s wife). microembolisms. The virus attacks the blood vessels, and that leads to a lack of circulation. His feet and toes were purple and black. It was the most horrible thing I’d ever seen. But he never complained.” Barry said his father knew he would have his legs amputated because of this disease. “Losing his wife, his legs, and having just celebrated what would be his last birthday on May 14th was hard,” Terrie said, “He told a social worker, ‘I basically lost my life.’”

Musical send-off

Because Rol was in such good health, his body held on for some time. Terrie and Barry visited through windows often. One day Barry made three trips from Lake Geneva to Barrington because of Rol’s ever-changing condition. Barry was outside the window when Rol breathed his last breath on May 27. “It was hard for us,” he said. “You can’t hold their hand, you can’t be with them, you are talking through a cell phone. Even when they pass, you can’t hug your family. This has been horrible.” They credited JourneyCare’s amazing staff with taking good care of their parents. Terrie said that a tradition at JourneyCare is to play a song over the PA system while a body leaves to a full-staff send-off. “They played “Amazing Grace” for Char,” Terrie said through tears, “and “I Can Only Imagine” for Rol. Barry and Terrie live in Lake

Geneva, where life is carrying on at a furious pace despite the gravity of COVID-19. The children and grandchildren pray for other virus victims. “This is real,” Barry said. “Wear your masks, wash your hands, stay socially distant. It could save lives. If my parents’ stories save one life, they won’t have died in vain.” The couple said they found comfort in their faith and the outpouring of masked support given by the community that Rol and Char called home – the Rose Farm Road neighborhood where Rol would pick up trash on his daily walks and Char would cook for friends.

‘It was beautiful’

The neighborhood organized a flower walk in honor of the couple. About 50 people lined the street, donning masks, and families were spaced 10 feet apart as they walked to place flowers in a basket at the end of the driveway. “It was extraordinarily touching,” Barry said, “to see how much my parents mattered to this neighborhood, it was really special.” Neighbors carried flowers that they put in a basket at the Messes’ home on Walsh Drive. “We didn’t expect this at all,” Terrie said. “We thought we were going to walk to see the neighborhood gardens, but then to see this – people of all ages came out. … It was beautiful.” The Messes had four children, nine grandchildren, and two greatgrandchildren. A memorial service will be held later.

Registration is now open for “Building Stronger Grant Applications,” a webinar from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 30. Offered by Volunteer Center McHenry County in partnership with Northern Illinois University’s Civic Leadership Academy, this webinar will take an in-depth look at how to make the components of grant applications stronger. The webinar will explore topics such as how to set reasonable and achievable goals and outcomes, determining what to measure and what not to measure, and defining what personnel are critical to setting and meeting goals and objectives. To learn more and register, visit volunteercentermchenrycounty.org/workshops.

Another $250,000 awarded by COVID Response Fund

Two Woodstock-based agencies were among nine recipients of a second round of $250,000 in grants by the McHenry County Community COVID-19 Response Fund. The Child Advocacy Center of McHenry County and the McHenry County Housing Authority will share in the funds to help nonprofits confront the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic of their services. In a news release, the Community Foundation for McHenry County and United Way of Greater McHenry County announced the second round of grant recipients from the fund, which was launched in late March. The first round of grants was announced April 6. Other grant recipients from the second round are Association for Individual Development, Home of the Sparrow, Farmworker & Landscaper Advocacy Project, Transitional Living Services, 4-C: Community Coordinated Child Care, Harvard Community Senior Services, and Greater Elgin Family Care Center -McHenry Community Health Center. Additional grants will be awarded to address emerging, urgent needs as funding becomes available, the release said.

Blood drive June 16 at Woodstock Public Library

Versiti Blood Center will have a blood drive at the Woodstock Public Library, 414 W. Judd St., from 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 16. Because of ongoing coronavirus concerns, the building will still be closed to the public except for people coming into donate. All donors must show a photo ID before donating. Appointments are required by registering on the Versiti website: donate.illinois.versiti.org/donor/ schedules/drive_schedule/5585424.

COMMUNITY

Couple reacted differently

Webinar to help nonprofits improve grant applications

June 10-16, 2020

symptoms with Tylenol and keeping hydrated, before becoming unresponsive on April 28. His daughter, Kim, who lives in the family home, called an ambulance that took him to Northwestern Medicine Huntley. “They had separate rooms, so they couldn’t be together,” Terrie explained. “But when Char was going to be transferred to JourneyCare in Barrington on April 29, the staff brought the two of them together. “One of the nuns working at the hospital got an iPad, they rolled the two beds together, and Rol and Char held hands and spent time with each other while the nun got a Zoom call going,” Terrie explained. “Char’s sister and the children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren could all be with them together – virtually.” “They were together,” Barry explained. “It was very nice because we wouldn’t have all been able to be together – but we saw them and they saw us while they had each other by their side.”

15 THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

IN BRIEF

Continued from Previous Page

Books available; gardens going native The Environmental Defenders is pleased to announce that its two bookstores, The Green Spot in Woodstock and The Green Read in Crystal Lake, have reopened. Of course, all the social-distancing rules must be observed when entering the stores to keep everyone safe. Environmental Our reused bookstores are Defenders clean, and our The Green Scene fabulous volunteers have filled shifts that nearly match those before the state’s stay-at-home order. The Green Spot will be open each week from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. It’s located in the historic Woodstock Square Mall at 110 S. Johnson St. on the first level. The Green Read hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through

Saturdays at 61 N. Williams St. in historic downtown Crystal Lake. The good news, too, while you’ve been at home and maybe gone through your shelves, is that both stores will be taking donations of books with a LIMIT of 10 BOOKS PER DAY. Our manager and volunteers do reserve the right to temporarily decline donations because of space and manpower limitations, however. And, we can accept only books in salable condition. Our popular June Hallway Book Sale at The Green Spot has been postponed to August, so please check our website, mcdef.org, for updates on specific dates. Please note that our Environmental Defenders’ office is closed through the month of June, but The Green Spot across the hall welcomes you! You can even pick up the Environmental Defenders’ spring newsletter and purchase gifts and DefendersWare. The Green Spot does not have a phone in the shop, but utilizes The Defenders’ office phone of 815-338-0393 and

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

is another way to reach out to the store. But, Facebook and coming in to browse are the best options as items change daily. Contact information for The Green Read is 779-220-4945 and thegreenreadbookstore@gmail.com. It also has a new website: thegreenreadbookst.wixsite.com/home. The Green Read also has DefendersWare and a new sustainable gift corner. You can find both of our reused bookstores on Facebook. Reading (and puzzling – we have lots at The Green Read) have become even more popular as we’ve needed to stay at home. Spending time outdoors and in our yards has been an important part of nurturing ourselves and the land, as well, during this time. If you have a little space or big one, this is a great time to consider planting native species if you do not already do so. From grasses and sedges to colorful flowering plants to shrubs and trees, there are many ways to go native and create spaces on your property where you can spend time

announcements

COMMUNITY

June 10-16, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

and connect with the Earth. Our county has a wealth of resources to help you be successful, from nurseries to organizations, such as Red Buffalo Nursery and the Wildflower Preservation & Propagation Committee. The latter helps you design your native garden and choose plants through their mentor program. And, many traditional nurseries now have sections for native plants. When you plant things that are native to this area, you increase the likelihood of attracting native bees and insects as well as monarch butterflies and a variety of birds and animals. The relationship between native plants, trees, and wildlife helps an entire ecosystem, including soil health, and builds a diverse, if not enchanting, place to call home. What’s even better? A great book to read in your native garden. Cynthia Kanner is executive director of the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County. This is a regular column of her agency.

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199

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June 10-16, 2020

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Shane Gibson, Marian Central Class of 2020, has completed his community service project on the road to earning the Eagle Scout rank in Boy Scouts. He has only three remaining merit badges to earn and a final project write-up to complete the requirements. Gibson, who is a member of Woodstock Boy Scout Troop 329, began his scouting career at age 5. His Scoutmaster is Ralph Cornett. “My project was a rosary garden outside of Marian Central Catholic High School,” Gibson said. “I wanted to add a quiet place outside where people could go to relax, have a class, or meditate. “ Gibson designed the garden with the help of Todd Manke from Cal and Shan’s Landscaping. The business donated labor for the project, which also included steel edging, ground cloth, concrete, and delivery of stone and flowers. Work on the garden began April 18 and was completed May 2. Gibson’s crew included his parents, Mark and Kim; his sister, Grace; uncle Pat Slowey; grandfather Bill Gibson; and friends Aidan Seaver and Austin Geils. Two Cal and Shan’s employees also helped. The group spent 11.5

hours building the garden. “My original plan was to fund the materials with a GoFundMe page with an auction item,” Gibson said. “The coronavirus forced me to just have the page to raise funds.” Marian Principal Debra Novy said the idea was Gibson’s alone. “Shane Gibson took a vision and made it a reality in this Rosary Garden on Marian Central’s property for all to enjoy,” Novy said. As for his Scouting years, his favorite camping experience was a high adventure trip to The Boundary Waters in northern Minnesota, where he and his troop members canoed for seven days. “My favorite badge was cooking, because one of the requirements was to make a meal,” he said. Next year, Gibson will attend Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind., where he will study supply chain and sales engineering technology. “My favorite part of Scouting is the ability to learn new skills that will help me later in life,” he said. “I have already used a lot of the skills that I have learned, and I am excited.” Gibson thanked Novy, the Rev. Jared Twenty, Vito Defrisco, and Mike Shukis “for letting me carry out my project.”

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COMMUNITY

Shane Gibson stands with his community service project, a rosary garden at Marian Central Catholic High School, which is part of earning an Eagle Scout rank in Boy Scouts.

COMMUNITY

June 10-16, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

IN BRIEF

Amateur radio operators to have closed Field Day

Amateur radio operators from the McHenry County Wireless Association will participate in a North American practice emergency communications event, termed Field Day, on June 27 and 28. The group will set up simulated emergency communications operation at the picnic shelter pavilion at Rush Creek Conservation Area, 20501 McGuire Road, Harvard. “Ham” operators, who provide emergency communications support in real disaster and post-disaster situations, don’t depend on the internet, cell towers,

or other infrastructure such as power mains, so the communication works when all else fails. Although Field Day normally invites the public to see emergency-style amateur radio in action, the event will not be open for visitors this year because of the coronavirus pandemic. The local wireless association is an affiliated club with the American Radio Relay League, which is the national association for amateur radio in the U.S. Club meetings are held at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month. For more information, visit mcwa.org or ARRL.org.

Oak tree acreage growing in 5000 Acre Challenge

Since The Land Conservancy of McHenry County has announced its 5000 Acre Challenge in late January, private landowners and municipalities have increased the total to more than 4,000 acres of oak woods cared for. According to a news release, the project is forging partnerships with private landowners, who now own 85 percent of the county’s remaining oaks, and seeking support from municipalities and the public. The project is ”crucial to protect

Happenings

the environment and character of McHenry County,” the release said. Oaks and other trees help clean the air and water and reduce air temperature, helping to conserve energy, TLC said. They reduce flooding and support native wildlife. Native oaks evolved with native plants and wildlife to make unique ecosystems that are some of the most endangered in the world, according to the release. The Land Conservancy of McHenry County is a member-based private nonprofit dedicated to preserving natural, scenic and agricultural land.

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

calendar

10 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

13 SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org Music by Big Fish from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

16 TUESDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org Music by Courtney and Chris from 9 to 11 a.m.; Tricia Alexander from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

WOODSTOCK CITY COUNCIL MEETING

24 WEDNESDAY

17 WEDNESDAY

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

By Zoom or conference call 312626-6799, code 57395

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

20 SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org Music by Cheryl and the Down Home Boys from 9 to 11 a.m.

23 TUESDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org Music by Judson and Judy Brown from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

SENIOR LUNCH PICKUP

27 SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org Music by Bad Penny from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

30 TUESDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET Woodstock Square 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org

JULY

1 WEDNESDAY SENIOR LUNCH PICKUP Dorr Township offices 1039 Lake Ave. 11:30 - 12:15

To submit calendar items, email pr@thewoodstockindependent.com Available to seniors, 60 and older $5 Call to reserve, 815-338-0125

4 SATURDAY

treed@woodstockil.gov

11 SATURDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

Woodstock Square 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org

14 TUESDAY

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

WOODSTOCK FIREWORKS Emricson Park 1313 Kishwaukee Valley Road Dusk $10 per car

Woodstock Square 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org

7 TUESDAY

12 FRIDAY

Woodstock Square 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. woodstockfarmersmarket.org Music by Courtney and Chris from 9 to 11 a.m.

Woodstock Square 7 p.m. Tune in on Facebook at Woodstock Opera House

WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET

13 MONDAY

COFFEE WITH THE CHIEF

(TBD June 30) Woodstock Police Departement 656 Lake Ave. 7 p.m.

Resurrection Catholic Church

UPSTAGED–THE SERIES ON FACEBOOK

19 FRIDAY

UPSTAGED–THE SERIES ON FACEBOOK Woodstock Square 7 p.m. Tune in on Facebook at Woodstock Opera House

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

■ The city of Woodstock awarded a contract for street resurfacing to Peter Baker & Son for $163,932.45. ■ The Dick Tracy Days committee was raising money to establish a Chester Gould Memorial Library, which would be housed in the Woodstock Public Library.

25 years ago – 1995

■ Construction began on a Burger King Restaurant on Route 47. ■ The Woodstock Summer Theatre selected youths from seven area towns for its production of “West Side Story” directed by Tony Casalino. ■ The Woodpeckers, a local preteen girls softball team, were 8-0 and scoring an average of 24 runs a game.

20 years ago – 2000

■ The Woodstock Fire/Rescue station at 1325 Dean St. was dedicated, replacing the station near Dean and South streets. ■ Carol Halma, a lifelong resident of the area, began a project to beautify and preserve the graves and tombstones at Franklinville Cemetery. ■ Woodstock High School’s varsity girls softball team were the champions of the Fox Valley Conference. Head coach Jim Patton took the opportunity to go out on top and retired after coaching the Blue Streak girls for 20 years.

15 years ago – 2005

■ Mayor Brian Sager nominated City Clerk Julie Dillon for the Woodstock City Council seat he vacated when he was elected mayor. ■ Five WHS students won the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration contest to name its newest deep sea exploration vessel. The winning name “Okeano Explorer” means ocean in Greek.

10 years ago – 2010

■ Three World War II veterans, Harold Irwin, Jim Hodges, and Robert Gibson, were honored as marshals for Woodstock’s Memorial Day parade. Irwin and Hodges served in the Army, and Gibson was in the Navy. ■ Fiona Weeks was valedictorian of the Marian Central Catholic High School Class of 2010. She urged her 174 fellow graduates to immediately

19 make a difference in the world. ■ Commencement exercises for the WHS Class of 2010 were held on Larry Dale Field. Michael Hansing had the top GPA of the 427 graduates.

5 years ago – 2015

■ Walter Thomas, 91, who at one time or another owned four gas stations in Woodstock and had collected and repaired antique cars, gained national notoriety when he checked backing a car through a garage door off his bucket list. The feat was made a reality with help from three of his grandchildren, Becky Goers and Andrew and Brian Thomas. ■ The 40th home built by building trades students in Woodstock School District 200 had been completed at 631 Prairie Ridge Drive. Fourteen WHS and WNHS students built the house over the course of two years. Pete Catan had been the instructor for 19 of the 40 homes. “What validates the program are the former students who now own their own companies,” Catan said. ■ WHS junior Luke Beattie finished third in the 3,200-meter run at the IHSA Class 2A boys state track and field meet. Kate Jacobs, a WHS sophomore, finished fourth in the 1,600 at the IHSA Class 2A girls state track and field meet. Jimmy Krenger, a WNHS senior, finished ninth in pole vault.

1 year ago – 2019

■ Promote Woodstock, which had been Woodstock’s marketing program, became Real Woodstock, and city officials moved the day-to-day management of the effort from the marketing firm A5, out of Chicago, to the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Danielle Gulli, chamber executive director, was named president of the new five-member Real Woodstock leadership group. ■ Rainbow colors reigned during the PrideFest parade and festival on the Square. Parade marshals were Alberto Perez and Woodstock City Councilman Darrin Flynn. ■ Pam Moorhouse retired after working at the Woodstock Public Library for 36 years. Her love of books and her degree in early childhood education led her to create what was perhaps her most enduring legacy – the library’s vibrant children’s programming.

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■ REDEEMER LUTHERAN 1320 Dean St. • 815-338-9370 Worship: 8:45 a.m. Sunday ■ RESURRECTION CATHOLIC 2918 S. Country Club Road 815-338-7330 Worship: 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sunday; 5 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m. weekdays ■ ST. ANN’S EPISCOPAL 503 W. Jackson St. • 815-338-0950 Worship: 8 and 10 a.m. Sunday ■ ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN 401 St. John’s Road • 815-338-5159 Worship: 5 p.m. Saturday; 9 a.m. Sunday ■ ST. MARY CATHOLIC 313 N. Tryon St. • 815-338-3377 Worship: 7:30 a.m. Monday - Saturday; 12:15 p.m. Monday-Friday; 5 and 6:30 p.m. (Spanish) Saturday; 7:30, 9 and 10:30 a.m., noon (Spanish), 5 p.m. Sunday ■ THE BRIDGE CHRISTIAN 2620 Bridge Lane • 815-496-0548 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 2016 Hartland Road • 815-334-1703 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ THE VINE CHRISTIAN CHURCH 1132 N. Madison St. • 815-338-3380 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ UNITY SPIRITUAL CENTER 225 W. Calhoun St. • 815-337-3534 unitywoodstock.org Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ UPPER FOX VALLEY QUAKER MEETING 4614 Pioneer Road, McHenry 815-385-8512 Discussion and singing, 9 a.m. Sunday Worship, 10 a.m., fellowship, 11 a.m. Sunday ■ WOODSTOCK ASSEMBLY OF GOD 1201 Dean St.• 815-338-1316 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ WOODSTOCK BIBLE CHURCH 118 Benton St. Worship: 10:30 a..m. Sunday

FLASHBACKS

June 10-16, 2020

■ BAHA’I COMMUNITY OF WOODSTOCK Gatherings are open to the public the second Saturday of each month. For information: 815-337-0126 woodstock.bahais@gmail.com ■ BLUE LOTUS TEMPLE & MEDITATION CENTER 221 Dean St. • 815-337-7378 Meditation: 10 a.m. Tuesday, Saturday; 7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday ■ CASA DE BENDICION 8015 Ridgefield Road, Crystal Lake (Crystal Lake Christian Church) Worship: 1 p.m. Sunday, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday ■ CHRIST LIFE 13614 W. Jackson St. • 815-338-4934 Worship: 10:30 a.m. Sunday ■ COVENANT REFORMED BAPTIST CHURCH 4609 Greenwood Road P.O. Box 463 • 815-575-9612 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ EDEN BAPTIST 1903 N. Seminary Ave. • 815-814-7847 Worship: 3 p.m. Sunday (Spanish) ■ FIRST CHURCH OF CHRIST, SCIENTIST 111 W. South St. • 815-338-2731 Worship: 10 a.m. Sunday ■ FIRST PRESBYTERIAN 2018 N. Route 47 • 815-338-2627 Worship: 9:30 a.m. Sunday Facebook and YouTube ■ FIRST UNITED METHODIST 201 W. South St. • 815-338-3310 fumcwoodstock.org Worship: 9:30 a.m. Sunday Sunday school for children 9:45 a.m. ■ FREE METHODIST 934 N. Seminary Ave. • 815-338-3180 Worship: 10:30 a.m. ■ GOOD NEWS CHURCH Meeting at Dorr Township Community Room, 1039 Lake Ave. 815-575-9224 goodnewswoodstock.org Worship: 10:15 a.m. Sunday ■ GRACE FELLOWSHIP 200 Cairns Court • gfchurch.org Worship: 9 and 10:45 a.m. Sunday ■ GRACE LUTHERAN 1300 Kishwaukee Valley Road 815-338-0554 Worship: 5 p.m. Saturday (informal traditional); Sunday 8:30 a.m. (traditional), 10:45 a.m. (contemporary) ■ HOUSE OF BLESSING 2018 N. Route 47 (First Presbyterian Church building) cbhbfil413.com Worship: 1 p.m. Sunday

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PUBLIC NOTICE

MOVED TO 650 CHIPPEWA RD UNIT #1, HARVARD IL 60033. OWNER JONATHAN PAGLES MOVED TO 701 OLD ORCHARD RD, HARVARD IL 60033. Dated: MAY 14, 2020 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk) (Published in The Woodstock Independent May 27, 2020, June 3, 2020, June 10, 2020)L11034

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASSUMED NAME Public Notice is hereby given that on MAY 18, 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: JIM McCONNELL HORTICULTURAL ENTERPRISES located at 2073 WILLOW BROOKE DRIVE APT 1-D WOODSTOCK IL 60098. Owner Name & Address: JIM

$325,068 $2,686,000 $2,686,000 $1,090,000 $105,000 $9,000 $1,060,000 $30,000 $200 $55,000 $970,000 $$30,500 $16,000 $55,000 $36,000 $$600,000 $$9,753,768

B. ESTIMATED EXPENDITURES (Constituting the Final Annual Budget and Appropriations for the Fiscal Year beginning May 1, 2020 and ending April 30, 2021) 1 ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES a. Office Supplies b. Internet/Email/Website c. Telephone d. Postage e. Dues and Subscriptions f. Bookkeeping/Audit g. Ambulance Billing h. Fire Commission i. Legal Expenses j. Workers Comp/Liability Insurance K. Short-Term Debt TOTAL

BUDGETED $5,200 $32,000 $6,400 $1,200 $4,000 $46,000 $$14,250 $40,000 $275,000 $602,700 $1,026,750

APPROPRIATED $6,240 $38,400 $7,680 $1,440 $4,800 $55,200 $$17,100 $48,000 $330,000 $723,240 $1,232,100

2 CAPITAL EXPENDITURES a. TRANSFER TO B, E, & V Fund TOTAL

$650,000 $650,000

$780,000 $780,000

3 CONTRACTUAL SERVICES a. Dispatching b. Lake/McHenry County SRT c. Contractual Employment Services TOTAL:

$155,000 $6,200 $10,500 $171,700

$186,000 $7,440 $12,600 $206,040

4 FIRE PREVENTION AND PUBLIC EDUCATION a. Fire Safety Festival b. Fire Prevention Week Activities c. Public Newsletter d. Lock Box Program

$1,500 $750 $$1,500

$1,800 $900 $$1,800

Address Sign Program Dues and Subscriptions Fire Extinguisher Training CPR Supplies Miscellaneous TOTAL:

$750 $500 $500 $3,000 $1,000 $9,500

$900 $600 $600 $3,600 $1,200 $11,400

5 MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS a. Service & Materials to Maintain Vehicles b. Service & Materials to Maintain Equipment c. Service & Materials to Maintain Bldg & Grnds d. Fuel TOTAL:

$100,000 $15,000 $85,000 $55,000 $255,000

$120,000 $18,000 $102,500 $66,000 $306,000

6 OPERATING SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT a. Station Supplies b. Medical Supplies c. Personal Protective Equipment d. Miscellaneous Equipment TOTAL:

$15,000 $27,000 $25,000 $$67,000

$18,000 $32,400 $30,000 $$80,400

7 PERSONNEL SERVICES a. FICA/Medicare b. Health and Fitness c. Training d. Uniforms e. Health/Life Insurance TOTAL:

$125,000 $15,000 $35,000 $35,000 $490,000 $700,000

$150,000 $18,000 $42,000 $42,000 $588,000 $840,000

8 SALARIES a. Administration b. Part-time/Apprentice Stipends c. Career FF/PM d. Risk Care Management e. Overtime/Holiday Pay/Vacation (career) f. Trustees TOTAL:

$266,000 $800,000 $2,628,750 $876,250 $460,000 $25,000 $5,056,000

$319,200 $960,000 $3,304,500 $1,051,500 $552,000 $30,000 $6,217,200

9 SUNDRY ITEMS a. Misc,Contingent, & general unforeseen exp. b. Transfer to Firefighter’s Pension Fund c. Transfer to Foreign Fire Tax Board TOTAL:

$20,000 $1,245,000 $55,000 $1,320,000

$24,000 $1,550,000 $66,000 $1,640,000

10 UTILITES a. Electric b. Natural Gas c. Water and Sewer Service d. Garbage Collection TOTAL:

$30,000 $15,000 $2,250 $5,500 $52,750

$36,000 $18,000 $2,700 $6,600 $63,300

TOTAL AMOUNT BUDGETED: TOTAL AMOUNT APPROPRIATED:

$9,308,700

$11,376,440

ESTIMATED TOTAL CASH ON HAND ON APRIL 30, 2021:$445,068 BUILDING , EQUIPMENT AND VEHICLE FUND A ESTIMATED RECEIPTS 1 Estimated cash on hand at beginning of fiscal year 2 General Fund Transfer 3 Sale of Fixed Asset 4 Bond Proceeds 5 Impact Fees/Misc. Income 6 Interest TOTAL ESTIMATED RECEIPTS: B ESTIMATED EXPENDITURES 1 Bldg/Grnds Improvement and Purchase 2 New Equipment 3 Principal on Debt Proceeds 4. Interest on Debt Proceeds 5. Vehicles (refurbish and acquisition) TOTAL AMOUNT BUDGETED TOTAL AMOUNT APPROPRIATED

$55,000 $650,000 $$$7,500 $6,000 $718,500 $50,000 $100,000 $175,000 $37,000 $300,000 $662,000

$60,000 $120,000 $210,000 $44,400 $360,000 $794,400

Continued on next page

PUBLIC NOTICES

A. BEGINNING CASH ON HAND & ESTIMATED RECEIPTS 1 Cash on Hand at beginning of fiscal year 2 Property Taxes - General Corporate Fund 3 Property Taxes - Ambulance Service Fund 4 Property Taxes - Firefighter’s Pension Fund (PTELL) 5 Property Taxes - Firefighter’s Pension Fund (Non-PTELL) 6 Property Taxes - Audit Fund 7 Property Taxes - Insurance Fund 8 Replacement Tax 9 Interest 10 Foreign Fire Tax 11 Ambulance Fees 12 Grant Proceeds 13 Miscellaneous Receipts 14 Fire Recovery Fees 15 Wireless Alarm Monitoring Fees 16 Dispatching Fees Reimbursement 17 Long-Term Debt 18 Short-Term Debt 19 Sale of Equipment TOTAL:

e. f. g. h. i.

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF SELF-STORAGE SALE The Storage Space LLC, 945 Dieckman St., P O Box 1873, Woodstock, IL. 60098, must receive the delinquent amount of $470.00 for rental of unit #57

at 945 Dieckman St., Woodstock, IL. 60098, name Jennifer Moy. Or contents will be sold (no auction) of disposed of on 6/26/20 at 10:00 a.m. at 945 Dieckman St., Woodstock, IL. 60098. Contents: TV, Tupperware tubs, Laundry baskets, Wrapping paper, Small table, Clothes hangers, Backpacks, Sweaters, Kitchen ware, Photos, and Bags & boxes contents unknown and other general household. (Published in The Woodstock Independent June 10, 2020)L11036

June 10-16, 2020

PUBLIC NOTICE

ORDINANCE NO. 226 ANNUAL BUDGET AND APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE FOR THE WOODSTOCK FIRE/RESCUE DISTRICT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING MAY 1, 2020 AND ENDING APRIL 30, 2021 WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees of the WOODSTOCK FIRE/RESCUE DISTRICT in the County of McHenry and State of Illinois, has prepared and posted an Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance in tentative form; and, WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees published a Public Notice announcing a Public Hearing to be held on the Tentative Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance; and, WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees held a Public Hearing on the Tentative Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance at 6:45 PM in the meeting room of the WOODSTOCK FIRE/RESCUE DISTRICT Fire Station #3, 2900 Raffel Road, Woodstock, Illinois, on MAY 28, 2020; and,WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees of the WOODSTOCK FIRE/RESCUE DISTRICT has caused this Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance to be prepared in final form.NOW, THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED by the Board of Trustees of the WOODSTOCK FIRE/RESCUE DISTRICT, in the County of McHenry and State of Illinois as follows: SECTION 1: That the following be and the same is hereby adopted as an Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance containing a Statement of Cash on Hand at the beginning of the Fiscal Year, and Estimate of Revenues by all Sources expected to be received during said Fiscal Year, and an estimate of the expenses contemplated for said Fiscal Year.

McCONNELL 2073 WILLOW BROOKE DRIVE APT 1-D WOODSTOCK IL 60098. Dated: MAY 18, 2020 /s/ JOSEPH J. TIRIO (McHenry County Clerk) (Published in The Woodstock Independent June 10, 2020)L11035

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

NOTICE OF CHANGE TO DBA CHANGE OF BUSINESS/OWNER(S) ADDRESS Public Notice is hereby given that on MAY 14, A.D. 2020, a Certificate was filed in the Office of the County Clerk of McHenry County IL concerning the business known as JON PAGLES DESIGN located at 800 W ROOSEVELT ST #4, HARVARD IL 60033 which certificate sets forth the following BUSINESS/OWNER ADDRESS change in the DBA thereof: BUSINESS

June 10-16, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

Continued from previous page ESTIMATED CASH BALANCE AS OF APRIL 30, 2021:

$56,500

SECTION II: That any unexpended balance of any items of appropriations may be extended in making up any deficiency in any other item of estimated expenditures under the same general appropriation and for the same general purpose of any like appropriation. SECTION III: This Ordinance shall take effect and be in full force from and after its passage, approval and publication as provided by law.

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT ADAMS COUNTY Heritage Bank of Schaumburg 1535 W. Schaumburg Road Schaumburg, IL 60194 Plaintiff, v. Sylvia C. Gatza 3904 Wilson Road Woodstock, IL 60098

Defendant. Summons Case No. 2020CV000039 Judge Daniel G. Wood Foreclosure of Mortgage: 30404 THE STATE OF WISCONSIN, To each person named above as a defendant: You are hereby notified that the plaintiff named above has filed a lawsuit or other legal action against you. Within 40 days, after June 10, 2020,

DATED: May 28, 2020 APPROVED: Frederick Spitzer ATTEST: Robert A. Kristensen AYES: 3 NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 2 (Published in The Woodstock Independent June 10, 2020)L11037

(which is the first day that this Summons was published) you must respond with a written demand for a copy of the Complaint. The demand must be sent or delivered to the Court, which address is: Adams County Courthouse 402 Main Street, Friendship, WI 53934-0220, and to Codilis, Moody & Circelli, P.C., plaintiffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attorneys, whose address is 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 200, Burr Ridge, IL 60527. You may have an attorney help or represent you.

If you do not demand a copy of the complaint within 40 days, the Court may grant judgment against you for the award of money or other legal action requested in the Complaint, and you may lose your right to object to anything that is or may be incorrect in the Complaint. A judgment may be enforced as provided by law. A judgment awarding money may become a lien against any real estate you own now or in the future and may also be enforced by garnishment or

seizure of property. Dated: June 4, 2020 Codilis, Moody & Circelli, P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff Electronically signed by Shawn R. Hillmann WI State Bar No. 1037005 Emily Thoms WI State Bar No. 1075844 (Published in The Woodstock Independent June 10, 2020)L11038

Sports

25 THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

Spring Senior Salute

High school athletes recognized for senior season that never was

Woodstock North High School Baseball

SPORTS

The May 6 edition of The Woodstock Independent saluted Marian girls soccer and Woodstock North boys track and field athlete. On May 13, Woodstock girls track and field, Marian lacrosse, and Woodstock North softball were featured. May 20’s issue saluted WHS softball, WNHS girls track, Marian boys and girls track, and WHS tennis. Marian boys baseball, WNHS soccer, and WHS boys track and field seniors were featured May 27. We ran Marian tennis, WNHS tennis and WHS baseball in the June 3 edition.

June 10-16, 2020

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, we paid 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

Tributes provided by head coach John Oslovich

Brayden Klesch

Brayden Klesch was set to be a three-year starter for WNHS baseball. “He was a terrific leadoff man and a steady glove at second base. Brayden was well respected by his teammates and a leader by example; he was always pushing others in practice.”

INDEPENDENT FILE PHOTOS

Bryce Nolan pitches with his trademark determination in a 2019 game.

Mason Carlisle (left) crosses home plate while Dustin Herrmann belts one for the Thunder. outfielder.” Brayden Klesch bats.

Mason Carlisle

Mason played center field. “He has a great natural ability in the outfield and can track down anything. He will be tough to replace as such a solid defensive

Dustin Herrmann

Dustin, a vocal leader and rallying force for the team, played third and first base and was a relief pitcher for the Thunder. “He locked down some big saves last year, and I was looking forward to watching him work on the bump this season.”

Bryce Nolan

“Bryce was an incredible athlete and a tough player. He was extremely determined in the outfield and on the mound. He has a cannon for an arm and made many spectacular throws from right field. His fire and passion for competing is something that will be hard to replace next season.”

June 10-16, 2020

THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

Woodstock High School Soccer Tributes provided by head coach Matt Warmbier

Destiny Acevedo

Destiny was a first-year varsity player. “She has a great attitude and is a hard worker

Karla Bedoya

SPORTS

Karla was a second-year varsity player. “She has outstanding drive and passion for her team’s success.”

Gaudalupe Bernal-Mejia

“Gaudalupe was a four-year JV soccer player with a great drive for success.”

Anacaren Carbajal

A JV player, Anacaren would have made an appearance at varsity throughout the season. “She was a great addition to the soccer program.”

Kimberly Castillo

Also a JV player, Kimberly could have made an appearance at varsity. “She was a hard worker and kind-hearted.”

INDEPENDENT FILE PHOTOS

Madelyn Hughes (left) and Cara Orndahl (right) grind it out during the regular season in 2019. as captain, and we expected big things this season after coming off a 15-goal, 8-assist season her junior year. “She’s an amazing player who put so much on her shoulders for the team.”

Juel Mecklenburg

A four-year varsity player, Juel was the heart and soul of the team. She missed her freshman year and most of her junior year due to injuries, but earned one-year all-conference and was looking for a big senior season. A two-year captain, she was a great motivator and team leader, despite her inability to play. “She always knew how to keep things light, but was one of the

hardest workers out there.”

Jennifer Moreno

Jennifer was a solid player and leader of her team at the JV level. She would have seen time at the varsity level this season. “She was always present, always working, always leading.”

Kelsey Perkins

A two-year varsity player, Kelsey was a huge assist to winning position in the central part of the field. A high-intensity player, she had a knack for finding the right spots to switch play on counterattacks.

Cara Orndahl

Cara was a three-year varsity player with great vision and the ability to start transition attacks. A hard-hat player, she goes out on the field and does what needs to be done. “Cara is one of the hardest types of players to replace. She could play anywhere on the pitch, and does it well, without complaints.”

Ashley Cortes Landa

Ashley played JV and loved to play the game and encourage teammates.

Kelsey Perkins controls the center part of the field.

Claudia Cruz

Cameron Wormley

Known for her bright smile and personality, Claudia spent time between levels last season, and this was to be her first full year at varsity. “She never accepted just enough, as good enough.”

Madelyn Hughes

A strong leader with drive, Madelyn is a four-year varsity soccer player, two years all-conference. This was her first season

Cameron Wormley, a three-time MVP and all-conference player, advances the ball during a cold spring 2019 game.

Cameron was the cog that made the team work. A four-year varsity player, three-time MVP, three-time all-conference, and one-time allsectional, she showed up to everything and worked hard no matter what. “She’s a generational player who led this team on and off the field. I can only dream to have another player like her in the program again.”

If anyone has any story ideas that will focus on athletes competing at the collegiate level, please e-mail Dan at (Dan62801@aol.com). If you contact him with a story idea, we will consider covering it in The Woodstock Independent. We are collecting names for next year. To make sure a college athlete from the Woodstock area is featured in The College Report, please e-mail Dan at the above email address. Please put “Woodstock Independent” in the subject line and include the student’s name, high school attended, sport, and the college he/she will attend.

A personal note from Dan: I have enjoyed bringing the information to you on each and every athlete. One of the best things in life is finding a career that you are passionate about and you love. I truly do love what I do and love highlighting the college athletes, regardless of their level of success or what level they are competing at. Anyone who goes to practice and puts in the work to attain that level deserves coverage from a reporter like me.

IF YOU HAVE A RECREATIONAL SPORT OR SUMMER TEAM THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO HAVE LISTED IN THE INDEPENDENT, PLEASE SEND US CONTACT INFORMATION AND WE WILL FOLLOW THEM THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER IN THE SCOREBOARD

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Virtual race will cover 43 miles for 43 years; registration deadline June 14 for June event By Sandy Kucharski

This summer will mark the 43rd year that the Woodstock Recreation Department has sponsored the Woodstock Challenge. The event is typically a group road race, but the pandemic has required format changes to stay within the Restore Illinois social distancing guidelines. “It was supposed to be our 43rd year of the Woodstock Challenge that runs the Saturday before Father’s Day every June,” said Becky Vidales of the Woodstock Recreation Department. “Since events with large groups were canceled, we wanted to offer a virtual race to take its place.” The challenge requires participants to compete 43 miles – running, biking, or walking – at their own pace on their own time, between June 1 and 30. Once the goal of 43 miles has been attained, email confirmation should be sent to the recreation department. A picture is suggested as well. Coming off the successful Quarantine 15 virtual race (walk, run, or bike 15 miles in the month of May), the 43-mile challenge in the month

of June would keep people moving who need the motivation, but also offer a good challenge for advanced runners. Nearly 100 people ranging in age from 6 to 80 participated in the Quarantine 15. They expressed appreciation for the motivation to keep moving during the stay-athome order, and for the flexibility to count walking, running, or biking. “We are looking forward to continuing to provide recreation and fitness programs to the community,” Vidales said, “and this is a good step in that direction.” Registration is available online for the race at woodstockreceationdepartment.com. The cost is $20 per adult, $15 per child, and includes a T-shirt and a medal. The deadline to register is Sunday, June 14. There is a log attached to the registration receipt to keep track of miles. When finished, the log can be emailed to bvidales@woodstockil. gov or rtorrez@woodstockil.gov. The curbside pickup for T-shirts and medals will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, July 2, at the Recreation Center. The race is sponsored by Northwestern Medicine.

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Rec department modifies 43rd Woodstock Challenge NEWS@THEWOODSTOCKINDEPENDENT.COM

June 10-16, 2020

The College Report is complete for the 2020 school year. Columnist Dan Chamness has written about all the college athletes from the 2019-2020 school year that have completed their careers. These are former high school athletes that went on Dan Chamness to compete in a The College sport in college. Report Dan has been reporting on their sports participation throughout their college careers.

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THE WOODSTOCK INDEPENDENT

Attention 2020 college athletes

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In Woodstock, Illinois, we are committed to the success of every child. From kindergarten on, our dual language program enables all children to learn English and Spanish, connecting cultures and fostering unity in our community.

June 10-16, 2020

“Because the kids have grown up in this program, they don’t see themselves as different from one another. It’s beyond tolerance, it’s the norm for these kids. It opens them up to being open to other cultures in the future.” Liz Instefjord, Second Grade, Westwood Elementary

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