Created: Sunday, July 1, 2012 5:30 a.m. CDT

Peasley: Have no fear, Woodstock VFW remodeling only

The Woodstock VFW is here to stay, asserts Commander Mark Freund. His assurance follows rumors that the post is closing.

Freund elaborated, “On July 1, kitchen services will temporarily cease for remodeling. A grand reopening is scheduled Sept. 1. This will provide an opportunity for the post to revamp kitchen facilities and develop a new menu. The bar-canteen will remain open to serve drinks, pizzas and snacks.”

John Widmayer, president of Post 5040 board of directors, and Freund encourage members to offer financial support for this renovation.

“Please plan to come by and say hello,” Freund said. “Without your help, this upgrade would not be possible.”

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McHenry County Farm Bureau hosted 24 teachers for a five-day summer Agriculture Institute in late June.

Three graduate credits from Aurora University were earned by participants.

They visited 18 agricultural sites, including O’Hare USDA Customs, and a number of farms.

Points of interest on the bus-tour portion of the institute were glacial moraines, watersheds, and solar and wind installations. The group visited the Willow Lea farm near Greenwood to view grass-fed beef on the hoof. That farm is owned by Gary and Michele Aavang.

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This year’s Antique Show at the McHenry County Fair is offering a total of $888 in prize money. Jane Dahm, chairman for many years, is assisting Judy Porter, superintendent, with this year’s Antique Show. For details and entry forms, visit www.mchenrycountyfair.com.

Rules state antique entries must be at least 60 years old. Judging will consider age, rarity and condition. Categories are U.S. commemorative, household, tools and equipment, pottery, children’s items, glass, textiles, porcelain, paper and miscellaneous.

Antique dealers are not eligible to enter. The entry deadline is July 13; fee is 75 cents per entry. Best in Show and Reserve Best in Show will receive the Janice Olbrich Award.

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Therese Narusis, newly crowned Miss Woodstock, will represent the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce in the Miss McHenry County Pageant at the McHenry County Fair Aug. 1-5.

A 19-year-old Valparasio University student, Narusis is a member of the Valparasio University Chorale and aspires for a career in music, saying, “Music is something that changes and profoundly impacts people. It is my dream to pass the gift of music on to a future generation.”

Her parents are Victor and Clare Narusis. She is a graduate of Marian Central Catholic High School.

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National Little League officials are continuing their interest in George Sullivan Field as a site for a World Series tournament. After touring proposed sites, officials spoke favorably of George Sullivan Field at Emricson Park with amenities the park offers. Proposed upgrades are the next step.

• Don Peasley has been editor, columnist and historian in McHenry County since 1947. He began his association with Shaw Publications in October 1950. He is a frequent contributor of articles and photographs. He can be reached at 815-338-1533.