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The Woodstock Public Library offers more than bound volumes. Audiobooks can be a good option for summer travelers, who can listen to a book while driving. Independent photo by McKenna Sweet.

‘Choose your own adventure’

Making the most out of the Woodstock Public Library this summer  By McKenna Sweet news@thewoodstockindependent.com Four-year-old Revy Cardenas and his mom came to the Woodstock Public Library to check out […] Subscribe or Login to continue reading this quality article by The Woodstock Independent …
June 10, 2026
Independent photo by Tricia Carzoli. Director Andrew Ossler (left in yellow) gathers on stage with the students in Summer Theater Camp at Marian Central Catholic High School. The two assistant directors — Colin Zecchin ’25 and Maddie Noon ’24 – are behind the bar.

Summer Theater Camp IS a thing!

By Tricia Carzoli news@thewoodstockindependent.com After many years of student interest peaking and waning, Marian Central Catholic High School is hosting its first Summer Theater Camp this week. Open to rising […] Subscribe or Login to continue reading this quality article by The Woodstock Independent …
June 10, 2026

Impact Grant helps fifth-graders unlock confidence

By Janet Dovidio news@thewoodstockindependent.com Madeleine Maltese has taught fifth grade at Greenwood Elementary School since she joined District 200 six years ago. This year, an Impact Grant funded supplies for […] Subscribe or Login to continue reading this quality article by The Woodstock Independent …
June 10, 2026

Recognizing Difference Makers

By Kevin Lyons District 200 Toward the close of the school year, Woodstock School District 200 recognizes outstanding employees in various disciplines from across the district. The Difference Makers might […] Subscribe or Login to continue reading this quality article by The Woodstock Independent …
June 10, 2026

Community

The Woodstock Public Library offers more than bound volumes. Audiobooks can be a good option for summer travelers, who can listen to a book while driving. Independent photo by McKenna Sweet.

‘Choose your own adventure’

Making the most out of the Woodstock Public Library this summer  By McKenna Sweet news@thewoodstockindependent.com Four-year-old Revy Cardenas and his mom came to the Woodstock Public Li…
June 10, 2026
Independent photo by Andrew Rousey. People stand for the playing of the national anthem during Memorial Day ceremonies at the Park in the Square in Woodstock.

A ‘never ending debt of gratitude for our freedom’

By Tricia Carzoli news@thewoodstockindependent.com Every year, the Woodstock community and surrounding areas gather on the Square to remember those who have paid the ultimate price for their country. …
June 3, 2026

Steve Gavers never asked for this fight …

but he turned it into something far more powerful than himself Gavers Cancer Foundation What do you do with a shattering cancer diagnosis? One that strikes hard, hits fast, and […] …
May 29, 2026

WPBW presents three 2026 Kuhn Scholarships

By Ruth Raubertas news@thewoodstockindependent.com On May 18, the Woodstock Professional and Business Women presented three scholarships to deserving women to further their educational and professiona…
May 27, 2026

Arts & Entertainment

Independent photo by Tricia Carzoli. Director Andrew Ossler (left in yellow) gathers on stage with the students in Summer Theater Camp at Marian Central Catholic High School. The two assistant directors — Colin Zecchin ’25 and Maddie Noon ’24 – are behind the bar.

Summer Theater Camp IS a thing!

By Tricia Carzoli news@thewoodstockindependent.com After many years of student interest peaking and waning, Marian Central Catholic High School …
June 10, 2026
Jim Stockwell

Fall in love with ‘Calendar Girls’

Local theater companies collaborate to stage adult comedy at MCC By Jim Stockwell Review Did you hear about the two thieves who stole a calendar from …
May 14, 2026
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Business

Independent photo by Tricia Carzoli. (From left) Roland Kuehtreiber, plant director; Olga Ortiz, HR manager; and Andy Ahonen, AFA’s executive vice president of the Americas, stand in AFA Dispensing’s factory at 610 E. Judd St. When fully operational next year, the facility will employ 75 people and manufacture two of the four types of sprayers that the company makes.

Finding a home in Woodstock

Netherlands-based AFA Dispensing opens its first North American factoryBy Susan W. Murray news@thewoodstockindependent.com Woodstock residents driving south on Route 47 can’t help but notice the funky…
June 3, 2026
Photo by Susan W. Murray. Andy Sieck of Hide and Sieck Farm stands with his early season offerings - varieties of cucumber and tomato plants, fresh lettuce, and freshly cut tulips.

New market vendors

Meet more of the new faces at the Woodstock Farmers Market By Susan W. Murray news@thewoodstockindependent.com The return of the Farmers Market to the Woodstock Square on May 2 brought […] …
May 28, 2026
Independent photo by Susan W. Murray. The staff of Ta Wan Thai & Ramen pose for a photo. (From left) Kitt Sakulwongsa, Meow Piankhuntod, Anusorn “Wan” Piankhuntod, and Adalia Schuh. “I’m very happy that the people in Woodstock welcomed us,” Wan said.

A new flavor for Woodstock

Ta Wan Thai & Ramen finds enthusiastic customers in Woodstock By Susan W. Murray news@thewoodstockindependent.com While Woodstock residents appreciate their Mexican and pizza restaurants – and wil…
May 21, 2026

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Schools

Courtesy photo. Greenwood students Maverick Johnson (left) and Maddox Belline learn to use a combination lock.

Impact Grant helps fifth-graders unlock confidence

By Janet Dovidio news@thewoodstockindependent.com Madeleine Maltese has taught fifth grade at Greenwood Elementary School since she joined District 200 six years ago. This year, an Impact Grant …
June 10, 2026
Creekside Middle School Principal Ryan Doyle takes a photo of Debra St. John and Jessica Mora, who were selected among 25 Difference Makers recognized at a May 19 Woodstock School District 200 event for their positive impact on their schools. District 200 photo.

Recognizing Difference Makers

By Kevin Lyons District 200 Toward the close of the school year, Woodstock School District 200 recognizes outstanding employees in various disciplines from across the district. The Difference…
June 10, 2026

Sports

Courtesy photo. Woodstock North baseball team poses for a final team photo after a 6-3 loss to Crystal Lake Central.

Senior-led Thunder baseball team battles to the end

By Steve Peterson news@thewoodstockindependent.com For 30 games this season, a group of 13 seniors led the charge for Woodstock North’s baseball team.  The Class of 2026 members did so from […]…
June 10, 2026
Independent photo by Steve Peterson. Woodstock distance runner Ellery Shutt (third from the left) is joined by his family at the school's college signing day. His mom, MacKenzie and younger sister Hollis are on the left. His brother Bresden and dad Judd are to the right. Not pictured: older brother Cohen.

Shutt to take running talents to big stage

By Steve Peterson news@thewoodstockindependent.com Woodstock senior Ellery Shutt concluded his Blue Streaks career running with the best at the IHSA Class 2A State Track-and-Field finals. He finished …
June 10, 2026

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