Woodstock Square Business Connection

I have been a resident of Woodstock for over 20 years and the owner of Read Between the Lynes bookstore for almost 14 years.  I not only love the charm of Woodstock, but more importantly the variety of the Arts programming that is offered throughout the City.  From City Band Concerts to the many music festivals, theater performances and art shows, there's always something to do.  I look forward to meeting new residents and business owners and help to make invaluable connections.  

I am a 28 year resident of Woodstock, Illinois originally from West Rogers Park,Chicago.  I have 23+ years of experience in finance, with 22 years in the mortgage lending industry.  I was the recipient of the Corporation For Affordable Homes of McHenry County (CAHMCO), American Dream Award in 1999, recognizing my commitment to help first-time home buyers.  That same year I received a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from U.S. Congressman Donald Manzullo for service to the community.  I am an active member of the Woodstock Noon Rotary Club, former councilman for the City of Woodstock, board member of District 200 Education Foundation and serve on the  fundraising committee of the Environmental Defenders of McHenry County, a non-profit environmental education and advocacy organization.

Becky has been a licensed REALTOR since February 15, 1993. For 20 years she ran a successful business in Birmingham AL, listing and selling homes, working for multiple home builders and managing 77 agents. Moving home to Illinois was an opportunity to start a new business in the area where she grew up. Becky believes in giving back to her industry and community, in 2019 she served as the President of the local real estate organization, Heartland REALTOR Organization. Becky serves on the Executive Committee of the McHenry Area Chamber Board, and also serves on the board of the Greater McHenry County United Way and supports the Children's Miracle Network. Becky is also licensed in Wisconsin, serving communities on the southern state line. In addition to sales Becky is also the Assistant Manager of the Woodstock location of RE/MAX Plaza.

For 30 years, I have helped over 1,000 clients buy and sell from Crystal Lake to Wonder Lake, Huntley to Harvard, Marengo to McHenry as well as all around Woodstock. In addition to selling homes, townhomes and condos I have worked with customers on commercial and office space, investment property and farms.

I live in Woodstock with my wife Ellen, a retired educator. We have 4 children. Our daughter, Tessa Jania, is a licensed Realtor and works with me at BHHS Starck Real Estate.

I consistently rank among the top for all Realtors in McHenry County. I have earned the GRI designation (Graduate, Realtor Institute). I also serve as Chairman of the Woodstock Groundhog Days Committee. 

My name is Clayton Mutert, and I handle the majority of duties regarding Business Administration, Fundraising & Event Planning for Warp Corps. I was raised in Woodstock, and have maintained strong ties to this city and it's community throughout my entire life.

With a BA in Public Policy Studies from DePaul University and over 5 years of employment in the Live Music Industry in Chicago, I've gained unique experience and insight that I now bring to my current position at Warp Corps. I believe Woodstock is an extraordinary city, with a community unlike any other. I am excited to help tap into the wonderful potential held here, and cannot wait to help in the growth of not only Warp Corps, but all of Woodstock.    

Taylor Kouris, Business Operations Assistant
As the Business Operations Assistant, I assist with ticketing operations and box office support to ensure a seamless guest experience from purchase to performance. I coordinate with marketing and event teams to maintain accurate ticketing information, assist with event setup, and help streamline processes that keep our shows running smoothly.

I founded Revelry Toys in January of 2024 with the idea that toy stores should be hands on, community centered, and ridiculous amounts of fun for kids and adults alike. When we open in our new Woodstock home, I hope you walk in and play with cool stuff you have never seen before.

I’ve been a hardworking Christmas elf for over 20 years now. Toys are kinda my jam. I spent 15 years in retail, much of that in the toy department. After that, I was fortunate enough to spend 4 years in the cozy world of neighborhood toy stores at Marvin’s Toy Store in Crystal Lake. I learned a lot in my role working mostly in the backroom, and I attended really fun trade shows. The Marvin’s crew took me in like family, and we had great times together.

I live with my wonderful husband, Brian, and our 2 dogs, King Arthur and Sir Lancealittle, who bring immeasurable light and joy to my life.   

I have been doing art my whole life.  I have been instructing art classes of many different mediums since 2007.  I am a mom of 4 very creative children and together we go all over McHenry county doing henna body art, glitter tattoos, spin art and face painting.  

I’ve been a proud member of this community for over 40 years. My professional journey spans a diverse range of leadership roles — from Business Coach and President of a major magazine, to Founder of an alternative education system, Retail Executive, and Owner of an event planning company. I've also served as the Public Relations Manager for two major associations.

Currently, I wear many hats as the Founder, Inventor, Creative Director, and Operations Manager of The Gift Wrap Place(wrapwithbow.com) and the Pickup-Dropoff Company.

My family is deeply rooted here — my sons attended Marian in Woodstock, and my husband is a regional leader for a major international retailer.

I’m passionate about helping small businesses create memorable, engaging environments that build client loyalty through the power of thoughtful gifting. 💝

Dragonfly Gallery  - A quiet place to view art by local artists. The Gallery offers paintings, photography, sculpture, jewelry and gifts for many styles and ages. Meet the artist receptions!

Dragonfly Studio - A space for artist gatherings. Inspiration through workshops with professional artists, and experimentation with materials in maker’s meet-ups and art parties. Bring your friends and family or meet new art loving friends. Join the newsletter for monthly happenings!