Hayley Matteson is a senior at Woodstock North High School. She is the daughter of Timothy and Cynthia Matteson, Woodstock. “Haley is a natural leader who is patient, kind, dependable, and truly represents the Thunder way. She’s involved in SADD, class council, National Honor Society, peer tutoring, and is the football […]
Eva Tersteeg is a senior at Marian Central Catholic High School. She is the daughter of David and Christine Tersteeg, Algonquin. “Eva has a beautiful soul. She approaches all things with a positive attitude and treats others with genuine care and compassion. She is certainly a brightly shining star within the […]
Nyah Kerr is a senior at Woodstock North High School. She is the daughter of John and Jill Kerr, Woodstock. “We believe that Nyah is such a positive role model with a contagious passion for learning. She is a reflective thinker and a great writer who continually pushes herself in academics. […]
Amber Stell is a senior at Woodstock High School. She is the daughter of Roger Stell, Woodstock. “Amber works tirelessly in class and consistently gives her best effort. She has really high standards for herself, and she has the grit to push herself to reach them. Amber is clever and so […]
Mary Narusis is a senior at Marian Central Catholic High School. She is the daughter of Clare and Victor Narusis, Woodstock. “Mary is a very talented young woman. She is a brightly shining star in both our music and theater programs here at Marian. She is also a dedicated leader in […]
Hannah Torkelson is a freshman at Woodstock North High School. She is the daughter of Scott and Heather Torkelson, Woodstock. “Hannah is an asset and a leader in her P.E. dance class. She has pride in her own work and is willing to help others advance their dance skills. Hannah is a role […]
Austin Gibson is a senior at Woodstock High School. He is the son of Brian and Tracy Gibson, Woodstock. “I nominated Austin for his hard work and passion for autos. He comes into class every day with a smile on his face asking what he can do to help. He motivates the students […]
Alexander Eschenbacher is a senior at Marian Central Catholic High School. He is the son of Jennifer and Leroy Eschenbacher, Wonder Lake. “Alex is the definition of what Marian Central represents: selfless, humble, helpful, and giving. Alex always puts the interest of others before his own needs. He is a relentless worker in the […]
Nancy Amacende is a senior at Woodstock North High School. She is the daughter of Rafael and Carmen Amacende, Woodstock. “Nancy has worked hard at WNHS the past four years. She is a senior now and is excelling in all her classes. She loves singing in the school choir and is hoping to […]
Adam Thomas is a senior at Woodstock High School. He is the son of Daniel and Lori Thomas, Woodstock. “Adam has been involved in art classes and AP art classes in all four years at high school. He has been an outstanding art student and also serves as the Student Involvement Leader for […]
Larry Lough is editor of The Independent and reports local news.
Janet Dovidio has been a freelance correspondent for The Independent for eight years.
Susan W. Murray wrote for The Independent, covering various beats, from 2005 to 2008.
Tricia Carzoli is a freelance writer and photographer that on community news.
