Our Jelly is Better Than Theirs! - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

Koi For Your Pond

Tim Lee Shreve and his wife will be moving to Missouri in July. They have Koi fish in their decorative pond that they can’t take with them. He wants to sell them before they leave. He will deliver them to a Geneseo address.
Depending on the size of the fish, they range from $45-$225.00. They are 12” – 14” in length. If you are interested, his e-mail address is: tim_lee_bonsai@yahoo.com

Note: There is a line under the first space and also the second space in the e-mail.

Geneseo Ikes Meeting

The Geneseo Izaak Walton League will have their May meeting on Monday, May13, 2024, at the Ikes Lodge beginning at 7 p.m. The guest speaker will be Jamie Posateri, Conservation Police Officer. Refreshments will be held after the meeting.

Gardening

With health issues it was really tough on Lorna and myself doing all the outside work we usually enjoy doing. I don’t see how we can do all the work next spring. We’re flower nuts and so we do more chores then we need to. Last year we put in 70 tomato plants, but we cut back to 26 this time.
We also put in beans (Ha! Rabbit food), peppers and onions. I no longer can use the lawn mower so we bought another lawn tractor from B&B. One for the front, one for the back.

We have a resident snake that has to come out from hiding to monitor what we are doing on his turf. I hooked up a sprinkler to our split rail fence. Our next door neighbor, Jim Putnam, has their garden next to ours so this way I can water both our gardens. Jim has been a great help to us.

Orioles

Neighbors, Jim & Jeannine Putnam, feed birds like we do. There is one species, Orioles, that do not want to share feeders and only frequent the Putnam’s feeder. Yes, we do the Welch’s grape jelly and oranges thing. Well awe be darn, a few days ago we had two of the orangey colored birds pay us a visit.

I told Jim that I’m going to make a sign by our feeder that will read, “HEY, ORIOLES! OVER HERE!! OUR JELLY IS BETTER THAN THEIRS!”

That Midwestern Mom

We really like to watch the lady from Minnesota on Facebook. She is soooo funny! I’m surprised some TV network hasn’t signed her up for her own comedy show.

Youth Fishing Derby

Second reminder! The Geneseo Ikes Youth Fishing Contest will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2024, from 8 a.m. to Noon. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. and it is all free for kids ages 2 – 16.
This big event is held every year and the kids have a lot of fun. It will be held at the Ikes Park, 1 mile north of Geneseo. There will be lots of nice prizes. Lunch will be provided free.

Humor

When in high school I worked part time at Grosmans in downtown Moline. I made 60 cents an hour. I was a stock boy and ran an elevator. Elevators are unique. They work on many levels. Glenn Sigwalt found he is nervous going on elevators. He is now taking steps to avoid them.
We seniors don’t spend half as much time checking our blood pressure as the younger generation spends on social media.
Jim Weisser is afraid of speed bumps, but he’ll slowly get over them.

Quote of the Week

“You will be better advised to watch what you do instead of what you say.”

• John N. Mitchell

Birdman of Henry County - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

Israelis & Palestinians

Years ago, when I was in my ‘20s, I traveled to Israel, Jordan and Lebanon. That certainly does not make me an authority on the terror that is going on in the middle east, but my opinion is this. I think we Americans should side with Israel. One thing that isn’t talked about much is that for many, many years both the Arabs and Jews claim the land Israel calls their own.
It could be that both sides do have a legitimate claim to that land. That is no excuse for Hamas and others to kill Jewish people. In 1948 the Jews fought a war to win their independence. The students who riot and cause hatred against Jews are wrong. Like it or not, Israel is not going away and more blood will continue to spill on the disputed land. Somehow, someday the devil’s sword must be broken and tossed in the Med.

The 2024 Draft

‘Da Bears did quite good in the recent NFL draft. QB Caleb Williams from USC and Rome Odunze, WR, from Washington, should certainly help the offense. Willliams will have 4 really good receivers to gain yardage.
Unfortunately, their defense is suspect. I think both Detroit and Minnesota will see marked improvements over last season. Let’s hope the same can be said with the Bears!!!

Bye-bye, Illinois

I read recently that our beloved state is losing its population at an alarming rate. According to new information, Illinois has a total of over 12.5 million people. Cook County, (or is it “Crook County?”) has the second highest evacuation of former residents nationwide. Best open your purse for future higher taxes.

Friends of the Hennepin Canal

This fine group of local individuals work to help keep the canal in good shape. The Geneseo Izaak Walton League and the scouts do the same. The same can be said for Kyle Goetz, Supt., and his crew working out of their DNR office in Sheffield, IL.
But these places also need your help when camping, fishing, hiking, etc. Don’t leave unwanted trash like cans, plastic bottles, bait containers, fishline and other junk on the bank or in the water.

Abe was no Hunter

I recently was given a book by “DC” entitled, “Abraham Lincoln” by Carl Sandburg. The book is 762 pages long and I am on page 10. Obviously, I have a long, and hopefully interesting read. At age 8, Abraham helped build a log cabin with his dad, Tom. One day Abraham saw some wild turkeys near their cabin. As the story goes, he took out a rifle gun, aimed it at one of the turkeys and shot it dead. After that he never since pulled the trigger on any game and didn’t care for a reputation as a hunter.

Speaker at Geneseo Ikes Meeting

The next Geneseo Izaak Walton Club meeting will be on Monday,May 13th at 7 a.m. The guest speaker will be Jamie Posateri, Conservation Police Officer. Refreshments courtesy of Glen Anderson, “Birdman of Henry County.”

Senior Fishing Derby Cancelled

When I set the date for the annual “Senior Fishing Derby” I failed to check the home calendar. I will be in Canada on that June 15th date.

Geneseo Ikes Youth Fishing Contest

This annual event is lots of fun and it will be held on Saturday, June 8 from 8 a.m. to Noon. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. and it is all free for kids 2 – 16. It will be held at the “Ikes Park,” 1 mile north of Geneseo on Rt. 82. There will be lots of brand new outdoor related prizes. Lunch will be provided free.

Humor

We live in the smallest town in Henry County. How small is it, you ask? Our city jail is called “amoeba,” because it has only one cell.

The phone book has only one page. The Zip code is a fraction.

The McDonalds has only one Golden Arch. A night on the town takes about 4 minutes.

Quote of the Week

Science without religion is lame, religion without science is blind.

• Albert Einstein

Anti-Gravity Fishing - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

3 Hour CC Class

Myself along with 20 other men and women took the ConcealCarry (CC) Renewal Course on Thursday, April 18th. Mike Weis,Certified Firearm/Conceal Carry Instructor, conducted the classheld at JWs Shooting Parlor, Geneseo.
Besides classroom instructions including videos, each individual had to shoot 30 rounds at a silhouette target from a distance of 5, 7 and 10 yards. As it should, my 9mm P-38 punched 30 holes in the target. Kind of funny, but at no timeduring the past 5 years did I actually carry my CC pistol. I believe, and still do, in the Second Amendment. Illinois was the last state to allow CC. Mike Weis and the ‘Parlor’s owner, Wayne Peterson, did an excellent job. I suspect there will be additional CC classes in the future.

Mosquitoes

As far as I’m concerned, Noah could have just as well left the pair of mosquitoes off his ark. The worse type is the Anopheles mosquito.
It can cause four forms of human malaria. Hopefully, they do not roam our area. While mosquitoes are not a problem for us just yet, it won’t be too long.

Ticks

This can be a dangerous bug. It is actually a large size mite that is blood-sucking and can be detrimental to both humans and animals.
They can carry Lyme disease and are located in most states. It is important, for example, to check yourself after you’ve been walking through the jungles of Henry County.
One way to remove a tick is easy. Pour some rubbing alcohol or soapy water on the tick. Take a “pointed” tweezer, not the flat end type, and gently remove it. Clean the bite again with alcohol or soapy water. Use a good bug repellant before entering a grassy or wooded area.

These jokes will bug you!

1. What do ministers say to get rid of insects in their church?

   Ans: “Let us spray!”

2. Why did the polar bears on Noah’s ark hang out near insects?

   Ans: The were looking for the ark “tick.”

3. What type of drink do insects avoid?
   Ans: Fly’s water (get it, Fly-swatter?)

4. Where do insects shop at? Ans: The Flea Market.

Colona Hummer

Last week on TV they said a hummingbird was spotted in our town. I would think it is a bit early, but they like dandelions and there are plenty to be seen. Maybe I’d better get our hummingbird feeder hung up. Same goes for orioles.

Lots of Wildlife

Two weeks ago, Gary Dahlquist and I went fishing at a private lake in Henry County. While the weather and fishing were good, the wildlife we spotted made it even nicer. We saw a bald eagle, 4 wild turkeys and an owl.

Flag

Freedom of speech and so on is fine with me, but one act I just cannot stomach is seeing someone burning our American flag. So many died or had horrible, long lasting wounds defending that flag of freedom.
When I see some punk setting fire to that grand old flag I think how stupid and ignorant you are.

Funny TV Ads

Besides the ad of two ladies and a baby in a buggy saying, “Liberty,” another funny one is the two little boys playing pickleball against two adults.

Humor

Geneseo’s “DC” gave me a book on anti-gravity fishing. It’s “impossible to put down.” I recently went to a seafood disco, but I pulled a mussel.

What is a fish’s favorite musical instrument? Ans: The bass guitar.

Where do cars shop for furniture? Ans: I-Kia.

What’s a South Korean car’s favorite day of the week? Ans: Hyundai.

Quote of the Week

“Congress is so strange. A person gets up to speak and says nothing. Nobody listens and then everybody disagrees.”

- Boris Marshalov

Why Do Birds Fly South for the Winter? - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

Reminder CC Renewal Class

If you need to renewal your Conceal Carry permit, Mike Weis, JW’s Shooting Parlor, is offering a 3-hour CC renewal class on Thursday, April 18, 2024, from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The cost of the class is $50.00 and it will be held at the JW’s Shooting Parlor, 207 N. State St., Geneseo, IL.
Bring your handgun and 30 rounds of ammunition. It might be a good idea to also bring your current CC permit and FOID card. A FOID card is good for 10 years and the CC for 5 years. Any questions call the business at (309) 944-4174.

TV Ads

I just wonder why so many ads lately show a vehicle zoom right up to the edge of a cliff. So is that suppose to be some kind of cool thing. I like the Liberty ad showing two ladies with a baby inside a baby cart saying its first words, “Liberty.”

Trout Fishing

In all my years of trout fishing during the spring and fall trout season this past spring trout season I totally bombed out! My wife and I always get our limit or close to it, but two rainbows in three days was horrible.
The first two days we fished at Centennial Park, Rock Falls, IL, and the third day at Moline’s Prospect Park Lagoon. I use minnows for bait and they have never let me down. The fellow next to us caught 3 “big” trout. The third one got off his hook and he jumped partly in the water and shore.
By gosh, he got it! However, he ended up getting his hook on the back of his coat. He asked us if we could get it out as he had no pliers. I got the hook out, no problem. Later, as he left, he gave us his 3 trout. One good deed deserves another so I gave him my long nose pliers. Each trout was enough for a meal for both of us.
After the sun was up for about a half hour we saw something really neat. Not far from us we saw a beautiful bald eagle swoop down, grab a trout from the water and took off. Awesome!

Jokes

They say the safest place to be when “The Big One” hits California is in a doorway……in Utah.

I got in trouble the other day at work. I had used the company phone to call France because I thought their accent is cool.

Lots of tornadoes this year although we usually don’t feel that much wind in an election year. So, what if l don’t know what “Armageddon” means?! It’s not like it’s the end of the world!!!!

Knife

Do you ever stop and think when you use a knife the importance of such a tool or weapon? The knife first appeared at least 2.5 million years ago or around the time Todd Sieben was born. They were originally made of wood, bone, stone and flint. Of course, today knife blades can be made of copper, bronze, iron, steel, ceramic, and titanium. Modern knives have either a fixed or folding blades.
Think about all the various purposes of a knife. Hunters use a knife to dress a deer, or clean a fish. Soldiers use a knife in combat. Kitchen knives for preparing food, daggers and switchblades for weapons.
There are knives for throwing or juggling and for religious ceremonies. Sadly, a knife can also be a murder weapon, right “OJ?”
Ooops, I guess I’m a little late on that score! Anyway, I’ll write more about knives in a later article, but until then, stay sharp!!

Glen Anderson Adds Another Year

Alias, “Birdman of Henry County,” will hit the “Big 90” on May 7th. He and his wife, Janet, have done a lot of volunteer work for the Geneseo community. He has also given many presentations to area groups on the conservation of birds, prairies and woodlands. The other day I asked him why do birds fly south for the winter? He said, “Because it’s too far to walk.” He has a bird for sale, but it won’t go “cheep!”

Quote of the Week

“Chance makes our parents, but choice makes our friends.” - Jacques DeLille

Do I Really Have To? - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

Barge Party 2024

Chad Pregracke and his Living Lands & Waters crew will be hosting their annual “Barge Party 2024” on Thursday, June 13, 2024, from 5 – 9 p.m. It will be held at Beacon Harbor, East Moline, IL. Parking and continuous shuttles will be available at John Deere Harvester Works. Look for signs. Tickets are $50.00 per person. We volunteered at last year’s event and it was so much fun. Unfortunately, I’ll be in Canada that week, but Lorna and her sister, Elly, will be helping out.

There will be a fish & shrimp boil, wine pull, silent auction, barge tours, cash bar and live music. It really is a lot of fun. If you are a local artist, all donations are appreciated. All proceeds go to raising operating funds for LL&W. For more information you can call 309-496-9848 or go on-line at www.livinglandsandwaters.org.

Conceal Carry Renewal

This is a reminder that Mike Weis of JW’s Shooting Parlor, 207 N. State St., Geneseo, IL, will be conducting a 3-hour Conceal Carry “Renewal” class on Thursday, April 18, 2024.

The times will be from 4:30 – 7:30 p.m. You will need to bring your handgun and your current CC card, too!

You will also need to bring 30 rounds of ammo for your handgun. The JW’s Shooting Parlor sells most all popular ammunition should you not have that many cartridges. The cost of the class is $50.00. Keep in mind you must have a FOID card to apply for a CC permit. A FOID card is good for 10 years and a CC card is good for 5 years. If any questions call the business at (309) 944-4174.

Driver’s License

Last Thursday we had a retired teachers luncheon in Kewanee. As long as we were in Kewanee I thought I’d renewal my driver’s license. I was told I was going to have a vision test, a test on a computer, and lastly, a behind-the-wheel driver’s test.
Ugh! I passed the vision and computer test. Last was the behind-the-wheel driver’s test of which I passed, but on one maneuver I simply could not understand what the instructor wanted. I sure wasn’t going to argue with the nice lady, but it was frustrating. All the people at the facility were very nice.

Car Jokes

Why did the scarecrow become a successful Uper driver?
Ans: Because he was outstanding in his field.

What happens when a frog parks illegally? Ans: It gets toad.

What kind of car does a Jedi drive? Ans: A toy-yoda.

What kind of cars do cooks drive? Ans: Chef-rolets.

Iowa’s Emmet County

Our border state, Iowa, has 99 counties. So what makes Emmet County in Iowa so special? The answer is it’s the only county in Iowa that the emerald ash borer (beetle) has not taken residence.
This is according to the Iowa Dept of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. Maybe there are not many ash trees in that county or the nasty critters just haven’t been discovered yet. Let’s hope the ash trees can somehow resist these bad news beetles as they can destroy an ash tree within two to four years. They are a serious problem here in Illinois and other states, as well.

Fareway Cook-out

It is very nice that the Geneseo store offers various organizations a way to make money. Lorna and I recently volunteered to help at the Geneseo International Thanksgiving Fellowship Program.
There were 9 volunteers and we served 125 customers. It was fun.

Vote: Do I really have to?

I’m quite sure I won’t be around for the next presidential election in 2028, but yes, I will vote in November. For the first time in all my voting years, I really have been so disgusted with the two major presidential candidates. If I should make it to the pearly gates, it will be nice to know there is only one God and no voting needed!

Sports Writers

Yes, we get it! Iowa’s BB star, Clark, is one awesome player. With all the hype, I’m beginning to think she can walk on water, climb Mt. Everest backwards, and beat Michael Jordan with one arm tied behind her back.

Colona Fire Department Breakfast

Chief John Swan and all his volunteers did a great job last Sunday with their fundraising breakfast. The food was excellent and it was nice to see some folks we haven’t seen a while. So, a big “Thank You” goes to our Colona Fire Department.

Quote of the Week

“Friends, though absent, are still present.” - Cicero

Wear Running Shoes to Walmart! - By Dan Dauw

Guest Night

Every few months the Geneseo Kiwanis members have a meeting/dinner for spouses or friends. Lorna and I always try to attend. We never have a problem getting seats as no one seems to sit at our table. Anyway, the “Guest Night” was last Tuesday. The food was excellent and the GHS Jazz Band was the entertainment. They were good, really good! At the end of the band’s performance, Linda Vanderleest did a nice gesture and challenged everyone to chip in a sawbuck for scholarships to the students attending band camp this summer. Oh, my gosh! Did I just compliment Linda? I so need help!!

Steve and Jan Weber

There were no other seats available for Kiwanis “Guest Night” so Mr. & Mrs. Steve Weber and Mr. & Mrs. Roger Bengtson sat at our table. In our conversations, Steve wondered if many read my column? I said I honestly don’t know and that does bother me. Jan Weber pulled out her iphone and showed me seven “likes” on my previous column. I’m just not real savvy with somethings on the iphone, computer, etc. Both Jan and Steve gave me some good advice on how to increase readers. It can be a bit of a challenge each week to come up with interesting things. I try to add topics of humor, fishing, sports, history, coming events, gardening, birds and some odds ‘n ends. If possible, I attempt to stay away from religion and politics. So, am I on the right track or wrong train??? Hit “Likes”or your thoughts at: deboonelr@aol.com

Postage Stamps

Buy them from the USPS and NOT from some phony businesses that advertise low discounts on stamps. They look real, but they are not!

Trout Saturday

Reminder, this coming Saturday, April 6, 2024, is the opening day of the Illinois Trout Season. Here are some of the nearest trout fishing locations: Prospect Park Lagoon, Moline; Hennepin Canal Parkway, Sheffield; and Centennial Park, Rock Falls. The limit is 5 trout per person. The Sheffield location begins at 6 a.m. and the other places start at 5 a.m. Make sure you have both the 2024/25 fishing and trout licenses. By the way, the 2023/24 fishing license expired March 31, 2024. My favorite baits for trout are minnows or lures. If minnows, make sure they are alive and hook the minnow just behind its dorsal fin. Small bobber, split shot and a short-shank #6 hook and ‘yer in business.

Spring Swap Meet

The QC In-Fisherman Club will host their” Spring Swap Meet” on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at the QCCA Expo Center, 2621 4th Ave., Rock Island. The hours are from 8:00 a.m. to Noon. Free admission. So, if you have some fishing, camping and/or hunting items you may be able to buy, sell or trade those type items. No firearms or live ammo allowed. Biscuits & gravy will be available. Let’s just hope my neighbor, Jim Putnam, isn’t doing the cooking! Donations welcome!

Fishy Poem

Roses are red,

Violets are blue,

Fishing is fun,

For me and you;

Trout taste good,

Whether day or night;

Minnows or lures,

I know they’ll bite;

Kathy Mattea

In my opinion, no one sings the old Civil War ballad, The Vacant Chair, better than singer & song writer, Kathy Mattea. So, last week I sent her a letter telling how much I enjoyed her singing and especially her performance of The Vacant Chair. No, I do not expect to hear back from her and that’s understandable. The ballad tells of a CW soldier who never comes back from the war. He will never again sit in his chair for the family dinner. Sadly, as wars continue to this day, I’m sure there are many “vacant chairs” around the dining tables.

NCAA Tournament

Two of my favorite teams, Iowa State (M), and Notre Dame (W) went down in flames last Thursday & Friday. My other favorite is Illinois (M) who beat Iowa State. I had Illinois winning in my bracket until they meet with UConn. I think South Carolina women’s team will win the women’s tournament although I’d rather see UConn take the top spot.

Senior Humor

Ladies, want to seem younger? Try these 3 tips. 1) Wear running shoes to Walmart. 2) Wear a warm-up suit when grocery shopping. 3) Keep a tennis racquet somewhere in your car so it can be seen.

Lorna and I used to see fiber in our carpets. Now we find it in our cereal bowl. Golfers: They say swimming is good for us. But once I find my golf ball, I’m ready to call it a day.

Quote of the Week

Whenever the press quits abusing me, I know I’m in the wrong pew. - Harry S. Truman

Hey, Wait a Minute! - By Dan Dauw

Todd Sieben

Most of us know Todd as a former Illinois politician and a nice guy. He still likes to help out when he sees a wrong that should be a right. Once in a while his mind does slip a tad. Case in point. When he was in politics, some years ago, he visited a remote village in Henry County. Todd asked the mayor what his two biggest needs were for his little town? The mayor said, “First, we have no doctor.” Todd took out his cell phone, made a call, and told the mayor, it’s all taken care of, a doctor will be here tomorrow. What is your other need? The mayor said, “We have no cellphone reception in our village.”

Andrew Sigwalt

If you know Andrew, you know he is quite the fisherman. Last week he was walking along the canal carrying two small bass. Just then, Jamie Posateri, Game Warden, stopped Andrew to see his fishing license. He said he didn’t have one because the fish are his pets. Andrew said, “Once in a while I take my two pets and let them swim around.” When they’re done swimming I whistle at them and they come back to me. Jamie did not buy a word of it and told Andrew to whistle the fish back. Andrew said, “What fish?”

Claire Crawford

Claire Crawford, Library Director, said when she found a book I was looking for, “I booked it for you!” She also said a lot of math books become sad at the library. Why I asked? Because they just have too many problems. One book wasn’t feeling good so it went to the Geneseo library to get checked out!

Lorna Dauw

She always encouraged me to pursue a writing career. At least I think that’s what she meant every time she’d show me the door and say, “Don’t forget to write!” She found an easier way to serve left overs. She never clears the table.

Under, “Did You Know?”

When the Civil War broke out, both sides needed muskets. The Governor of Pennsylvania decided that he would supply some of his soldiers with pikes (lances). He and others felt they would make a big difference and the war would end quickly. So, 1,000 of the long wooden poles with sharp blades at the ends would do it. It was said that the line of Confederates watching the Yankees charge was humorous. No Confederates were injured and the lances were stored away for good.

Bait

You can still get live bait at Pankey’s Carbon Cliff Bait & Tackle. Probably sometime towards the end of the year the famous bait ‘n tackle shop will close its doors for good. That will be sad. Last week I talked with Debbie on where one should go to find bait, especially minnows. She suggested the Marathon Gas Station/Convenient Store, 621 State Ave., Hampton, IL. They open at 6 a.m. and their phone # is: (309)755-3862. Remember, so far Carbon Cliff Bait & Tackle will be open until later this fall.

NCAA, Can you just imagine if…..?

What if Nebraska’s Japanese BB player, Tominaga, married Notre Dame’s, BB player Hannah Hildaigo? Can you imagine how much fun it would be watching those two on the same team?

Humor

Dale Tanis told me his ear hurt. I said, “Inside or outside?” So, he went outside, came back in and said, “Both.” Maybe he doesn’t need an MD, but a psychiatrist.

Keith Vandewoestyne went to his local bank for a loan, but he will be paying it all back in 30 years. However, he’s no, dumb Belgian, if he robs a bank he’ll be out in 10 years.

Our son, Lance, has a good friend who is blind. The other day he asked Lance if he could borrow some money? He promised Lance he’d pay him back the next time he saw him. Hey, wait a minute!!!

Quote of the Week

“You must do the thing you think you cannot do.” - Eleanor Roosevelt

It’s Tough, But Someone Has To Do It - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

Living Lands & Waters “Barge Party”

This is one big and fun event! Lorna and I have volunteered at the “BP” several times and it is nice meeting all the friendly people. Right now, I do not have all the particulars, but mark the date on your calendar. It will be held on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at the Beacon Harbor Visitor Center, 101 Beacon Harbor Pkwy, East Moline, IL, 61244. Parking w/shuttle will be at the John Deere Harvester Works (follow signs). Unfortunately for me, I will be in Canada on a fishing trip. Ha! It’s tough, but someone has to do it. There will be a really nice dinner and entertainment included in the price of the ticket.

Lorna and her sister, Elneta, will be working the name tag tent. Tickets must be purchased ahead of time. I will have a reminder as we get closer to the event.

Passport to Local Adventures

There are 7 local museums that are participating in the “2024 Museum Hop, A Guide to Area Museums.” Here is how it works. If you visit any of the following listed museums and get your museum passport stamped (At least 3 different museums), you will qualify for a $100.00 drawing held on Sept 15, 2024.

The participating museums are:

1. Henry County Historical Society/Museum.

2. Mercer County Historical Society/Essey-Noble Museum.

3. Neponset Historical Society/Museum.

4. Princeville Heritage Museum.

5. Sheffield Historical Society/Museum.

6. Stark County, IL, Historical Society/Museum.

7. Warren County Historical Society/Museum.

Please mail the stamped page(s) of at least 3 different museums you visited and postmarked by September 1, 2024, you will qualify for the drawing.

Send to: Stark County, IL, Historical Society, PO Box 524, Toulon, IL 61483.

What is also nice is the handy little passport contains some information about each museum plus location and hours the museums are open. Donations are always welcomed. So, if you love history, antiques and learning about the wonders of our part of Illinois, come visit our museums.

Fen

The dictionary describes a Fen as an area of low, flat, marshy land, swamp; bog. Well, it is quite a bit more than that. It is very “rare!” Terry Brock, Cambridge, IL, is “the” authority on Fens. At the March meeting of the Geneseo Izaak Walton Club meeting, Terry gave an excellent presentation on the Fen.

The most interesting part of all this is that there is a Fen just east at the Ikes Park. At one time it covered a great deal more extending to Route 82, perhaps more. The Geneseo Ike’s Fen is a very wet place. It is at least over 6 feet deep.

It is a mixture of organic peat and sandy soil that is saturated with calcium rich surface and groundwater seeping from the base of the wooded sandy slope just above it. The Fen has ecological significance due to its contribution to plant diversity, water quality and wildlife/fish habitats. In Illinois, less than 1% of original marsh and Fen wetlands remain. Actually, there are very few places in our country that harbors such a unique place. There is so much more to tell about the local Fen, but space does not allow it. The Geneseo Izaak Walton League is going to “step up to the plate” and do some work on the path leading to the Fen.

24 – 40 Good Fish’n

Three weeks ago, on a Tuesday morning, Gary Dahlquist and I spent the morning fishing for crappies. We fished from shore on a private lake in Henry County. We each caught 18 crappies and I got one bass. Now we did not expect that same good luck on Tuesday, March 12. While the temperature was nice, the strong winds made us wonder if we made the correct decision.

Oh, yes! We made the right call that morning. We fished from 9:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Gary caught 40 nice crappies and I got 24 including a bass. Gary caught a 3 lb. bass and a minute later he hooked on to an even bigger one, but it slipped off as he was bringing it to shore. I sure never thought we would catch much because of the 20 knot waves rolling over the lake. Who can figure?!

Silly Humor

Lorna and I call each other at least five times a day. It’s not as romantic as it sounds. She calls me so I can find my phone, and I call her so she can find hers.

Airplanes seem to be taking hits these days. On my last flight the pilot announced, “We’ll be on the ground in 15 minutes. Anyone needing to get off before that, talk to a flight attendant.”

On that same flight one of the flight attendants said over the intercom, “We’ll be on the ground in 10 minutes. Sooner if you all lean forward.”

Quote of the Week

“That is a good book which is opened with expectation, and closed with delight.” - Amos Bronson Alcott

Hey Time, Slow Up - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

Congratulations ND Women’s BB

What a heck of a game it was at the ACC Champion game last Sunday, March 10th. Notre Dame beat NC State 55-51. It was so much fun watching this team this season. I think they will do good in the NCAA tournament, but that road is going to be tough.

Coach Niele Ivey is one awesome coach and relates to her players in a really positive way. Can you imagine Hannah Hidaigo and Olivia Miles in the front court next year? Yikes!! I’m not sure if they get Sonia Cintron, Kylee Watson and Maddy Westbeld back for next season? If they do, another ND Championship win could be in the workings. In the meantime, good luck ND ladies in the NCAA tourney!

Give Blood

I don’t know how good of a volunteer I am, but one thing I feel strong about is donating blood. I saw recently on TV that only 2 to 3% of Americans donate blood.

Grant you, some folks cannot give blood for various reasons.

However, most can! Anyway, I always go to ImpactLife Blood Ctr., Moline. It only takes about 45 minutes. I’ve donated 18.5 gallons so far. Okay, enough of that! The point is there’s always a great need for blood donors so whether it’s the Red Cross, where Lorna goes in Geneseo, or ImpactLife in Moline, please consider donating. You very well may have saved a life.

Hey Time, Slow Up.

In my younger days I used to stop at my favorite pub and/or a local coffee shop. Now it’s the pharmacy and the bathroom.

Long Time Ago

Around the time Dale Collis was born or about 300 million years ago, reptiles evolved from amphibian ancestors. Reptiles are a very interesting species of animals. Did you know there are close to 300 species of turtles? They have few predators because of their protective shell with bony plates. Carrying their “home” may slow them down, but most of the time they’re in no hurry.

Green on Sunday

That being St. Patrick’s Day on the 17th. My mother was German- Irish and the rest of me being Belgian, Native American and I guess anything leftover would be Martian. Anyway, I guess I’ll have to break out my old green socks and wear them to church. After all, they are holy!!!

We Seniors

Once you hit 80, if you don’t wake up aching in every joint, you probably are dead.

Snakes

So many times these reptiles get a bad rap. Maybe it is because in the bible or elsewhere the snake or “serpent” is the devil in disguise. They are very beneficial in controlling the rodent and other species in the animal world. It’s the “check ‘n balance” theory.

Through the years, we have had 2 boa constrictors and our current pet, a corn snake. She is about 4 feet long and is beautiful with her reddish and orange colors. She is not venomous. There are over 2,500 different species of snakes on our planet. Our son, Lance, and his kids, also have a pet corn snake. Now, if you are “really” afraid of snakes, go to Hawaii, Iceland, Ireland or New Zealand. There are no native snakes in those places. I’m also sure there are none at the N & S Poles either! A bit too cold, yeah think?

Ticks ‘n Opossums

Through the years there has been some who say that opossums enjoy a meal of ticks. There are now studies that show it is a myth. Can you imagine how much opossum would have to chow down by eating a pin-head size tick? Speaking of those little bugs, if you should venture out in tall grass or in a woods, make sure you check yourself for ticks when you get home.

You Might Be A Geek if….

1. Your I.Q. is a higher number than your weight.

2. You own one or more white short-sleeve dress shirts.

Dumb Jokes

What kind of TV does one find in a haunted house? Ans: A big-scream TV.

Why do elephants drive Fords? There’s room for 4 and the rest Is trunk space!

Why do spiders do so well in computer class? Ans: They love the Web.
(I told you these were dumb, but you had to read ‘em anyway, didn’t you?)

Quote of the Week

“The farther backward you can look, the farther forward you are likely to see.” - Winston Churchill

Let the Games Begin!

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

KeeKee

It was sad to read in Sunday’s newspaper about the passing of Kathleen “KeeKee” Pregracke. She certainly accomplished a lot in her years on this earth. She was very instrumental in helping her son, Chad, with “Living Lands & Waters.” We only knew her through our volunteering at the LL&W “Barge Party” held every year. Our condolences to her husband, Gary, and family.

Conceal Carry Renewal

I recently received a notice that my permit for Conceal Carry expires in August, 2024. I tried doing the renewal on-line and that was a waste of time. Fortunately, Mike Weis of JW’s Shooting Parlor, 207 N. State St., Geneseo, IL, will be conducting a 3-hour CC “Renewal” class on Thursday, April 18, 2024. The times will be from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. You will need to bring your handgun to the class along with 30 rounds.

They carry most all popular ammunition for sale should you not have that many cartridges. It would be a good idea to bring ear protectors and safety glasses. The cost is $50.00 for the class.

Remember that if you own a firearm in this state you must have a FOID card which is good for 10 years. The Conceal Carry permit is good for 5 years. Mike Weis was the instructor when I first took the CC class 5 years ago and he is excellent.

Geneseo Izaak Walton League

Members and guests are encouraged to attend their monthly meetings which are held on the second Monday of the month.

The March 11th meeting will have Terry Brock as the speaker on the Fen. The April 8th meeting, Jody Rathman will give a presentation on Boy Scouts of America. For the May 13th meeting, Jamie Poster, Game Warden, will speak concerning any new conservation rules or regulations concerning fishing, boating, etc. All meetings are held in the lodge and begin at 7 p.m. Refreshments served.

Jokes

Two Cadillac drivers, Tony and Bob, were talking. They then started yelling at each other. It quickly “Escalade-d.”

When is a car no longer a car? Ans: When it turns into a driveway.

March Madness

I was glad to see Iowa Women’s BB star, Caitlin Clark, will be entering the WNBA Draft. She is one awesome player, but I am glad she will be moving on. I’m waiting for the press to start calling it “Clark Madness.” Ugh! Enough already!!!

Basketball Humor

1. Why can’t you play basketball in the jungle? Ans: Because there are too many cheetahs.

2. Why can’t basketball players go on vacation? Ans: They are not allowed to travel.

3. Did you hear about the referee that got fired from the NBA? Supposedly he’s a whistleblower.

4. I couldn’t figure out why the basketball kept getting larger and larger. Then it hit me!

5. What do you call a pig who plays basketball? Ans: A ball hog.

Men & Women BB Favorites

Our favorites for tournament play are: Notre Dame, Iowa State, Illinois, UConn and Nebraska. I suspect of those teams, UConn, both men and women teams, will probably go the farthest. Ah, but alas! Let the games begin!!!

“Dan D Outdoors”

Attached is my column for March 6 – 12, 2024. If you care to see it on the web, go to:

1. Type in https://www.geneseocurrent.com/

2. In left column you will see where it shows, “Local Geneseo- Events.” Click on that!

3. After that, you will see in small print, “Hometown.” Click on that.

4. Scroll down to where you will see 3 colored local “Dan D Outdoors.” The colored logo on the far left is what you want to click on for my latest column.

Quote of the Week

“Politeness is the ritual of society, as prayers are of the church.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Do Your Duty and Leave the Rest to Heaven - By Dan Dauw

Davenport Gun & Knife Show

This show will be held on March 2 & 3, 2024, at the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds in Davenport. The hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $6.00. I don’t need any firearms, but I’m always curious to see what dealers are asking on similar guns that I do own.

Geneseo Kiwanis Pancakes

This annual event will be held on Sunday, March 3rd at the Geneseo Moose Lodge. The hours are from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost is only $7.00 per adult and $3.00 for children age 10 and under.

Saukenauk BPS Gun Range

Of which I am a member. With the recent nice temperatures we’ve been having I decided to see how accurate a WW2 Browning High-Power pistol is? I’ve owned it for many years. What is unusual about the pistol is that it has an adjustable tangent rear sight.
Most of those models did not have that type of sight. Long story short, it was really accurate at 25 yards. Those Belgians, who manufactured it, knew what they were doing. Although at the time the Nazis occupied Belgium.

March Madness Women’s BB

The 2024 ACC Tournament will be held on March 6 – 10, 2024. There are so many good women teams, and not just in the ACC. Of course, I’m for those blue ‘n gold, Fighting Irish of Notre Dame. They are really good and fun to watch, but I’m not so naïve as to think they’ll win it all. However, the games do have to be played, right?!

Joke

The other day I bought Lorna a talking bird for her birthday. It could speak seven languages and it cost me a mint. I had the bird sent to her and when I got home I asked her, “Did you get the bird I sent you?” She answered, “Yes. I already have it in the oven.” I yelled, “What? That bird could speak seven languages!” Lorna said, “Then why didn’t it say anything?”

All Aboard!

Steam operated trains on the Rock Island Line were replaced with gas-electric units in 1929. Steam engines continued on freight trains until December 12, 1952, when diesel locomotives took over. My dad loved trains and so did I. I still have my .027 gauge Lionel trains set-up on our ping-pong table. I can just remember steam engines and the “Round House” across from Moline’s Riverside Pond.
We used to ride the RI “Rocket” to the Iowa games and back. It was so much fun. I remember the passenger cars did a lot of “rock ‘n roll.” If you’ve ever rode the rails on the high-speed train in Europe you know how technology has really improved the passenger’s comfort zone!

Humor

1. What do you get when you grill a Barbie doll? A Barbieque.

2. Lorna is a school tutor and flute tutor. She taught the flute to two tooters to toot. Said the two to Lorna the tutor, “Is it easier to toot or to tutor two tooters to toot?”

3. What do you call a man with a car on his head? Ans: Jack

Quote of the Week

“Do your duty and leave the rest to heaven!” Pierre Comeille

Before You Go To Tackle “Jaws” - By Dan Dauw

Spring Swap Meet

This is the 26th annual Quad City In-Fisherman “Swap Meet” event. It will be held on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at the QCCA Expo Center, 2621 4th Ave, Rock Island, IL. Hours are from 8 a.m. to Noon. It is free admission. You may buy, sell, or trade new or used hunting, fishing and/or camping equipment only. No firearms or ammo allowed. Biscuits & gravy will be available if you haven’t had breakfast.

Fishing Tips

These nice warm temps we’ve been having for February gets me, and maybe you, itching to do some soft water fishing. Before you go to tackle “Jaws” now is the time you might want to start checking your fishing equipment. 1) If you haven’t changed line in a while, do so. It loses its strength over time. You don’t need expensive line, middle-of-the-road is fine. 2) Clean your reels and rod eyes. Crud can build up in those areas. 3) Hooks can get rusty so replace with new ones. They are not expensive. 4) Here is one that bugs me to no end. Unless you have bad eyesight, when fishing with a bobber (float) do not use a large bobber. Panfish especially do not want resistants which can happen with too big of bobber. Leave those big, red & white bobbers alone. In fact, try slip bobbers. That’s all I use if bobber fishing. 5) Your 2023-24 Illinois fishing license expires on March 31, 2024. If you don’t want a citation from our friendly game warden (CPO Jamie Posateri) then make sure to have your new license and on your person!

Thanks for Nothing

Gov. Pritzker and his Democrat representatives railroaded a gun bill a few months ago that banned 170 type firearms, high-capacity magazines and accessories.

If you have any of these items listed you were to contact and register with the Illinois State Police by January 1, 2024. Failure to do so is a crime. However, it’s not enforced because it may go to the full U.S. Supreme Court. A person can keep the firearm after signing an affidavit per gun with the ISP, “but” cannot sell it to another person. Illinois Rep. Dan Swanson sent me some stats on how many individuals sent in affidavits. That figure was very low as I expected. Of course, the Illinois Supreme Court refused twice a request to repeal the ban. So, everyone that sent in an affidavit can still keep their gun(s),etc. The bill is suppose to make it easier for the ISP to track down the person who committed a crime with that gun. Seriously??? Want to put $$$ on what’s next, “Confiscation?”

Right or wrong, just my opinion!

Geneseo Kiwanis “Pancake Day.”

This annual event will be held on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at the Geneseo Moose Lodge from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost is only $7.00 for adults and $3.00 for children age 10 and under.

Car Humor

1. What did the German car say when you asked it for help? Ans: “Of Porsche!”

2. What did the bystanders say when a minivan zoomed by? Ans: “Wow, look at that van Gogh!”

3. How did a Mexico car say goodbye to a German car? Ans: “Audi-os.”

4. What’s worse than raining cats and dogs? Ans: Hailing a taxis.

5. What kind of luxury sports car does a mink drive? Ans: A Fur-rari.

Good Reads

If you’re a history buff, with especial interest in WW2, you may want to read the non-fiction, 2018 book entitled, “The Far Shore” by Edward Ellsberg.

It’s one of those books you just can’t put down. It has 38 chapters dealing with the pre-invasion plans of Normandy on June 6, 1944. Of course, it covers much detail on the brutal and hard-fought landing on the beaches. Many soldiers and sailors paid the ultimate price. I just started reading an older WW2 book that I’ve had since 1975, but for some reason did not start reading it until now. The name of the book is, “The Partisans of Europe in World War II” by Kenneth Macksey.

Those men and women were very brave fighting the Nazis. If caught by the Germans, in most all cases, they were tortured and then shot. Reprisals were also carried out by the Nazis on ordinary civilians who just happened to live where the partisans did their clandestine destruction.

Galva Kiwanis Valentine Dinner

This was a really nice event held at the Galva American Legion on the day before Valentine’s Day. The food was really good. Lorna got to see a lot of folks she knew from teaching at the high school. We sat with Dale & Sharon Collis. It was nice seeing Sharon!!!!!!! Did I miss someone??

Quote of the Week

“No one can be perfectly free until all are free.” Herbert Spencer

"Go, ISU Redbirds!"  The Nommensen and Dauw family saw a great BB game. Sunday between Unv. of Evansville and Illinois State Unv. ISU won 86 to 79.

Drum Solo!!! By Dan Dauw

President Biden

As to his age I can sympathize with him. I am the same age as the gentleman and my memory gets worse by the day. Long term not so much, but short term is yuk. What I don’t like is sometimes not remembering names of friends. Whether the president should be re-elected is up to you, the voter. Just my opinion, but I think we all would be better served by two younger choices.

Hard to Believe

I’m not sure when this happened, but an airliner was flying over Nevada when at 21,000 feet it hit a mallard duck. Now what the heck is a mallard flying at that extreme height? A little “Daffy” if you ask me. Anyway, it was the highest flight ever documented by a duck in our country.

Jokes

My wife is always taking health food to the extreme. Yesterday she took the carb-orator off our car. I just saw two dinosaurs crash their cars into each other. They were Tyrannosaurus wrecks.

Speaking of cars, if a car is chasing you, you’ll definitely get tired. However, if you chase a car, you’ll get “exhaust”ed.

Unusual Mating

During the winter male stoneflies crawl out of ice streams and tap their bellies on hollow branches. If a female stonefly is impressed by the drum solo, she taps back. Same here! That’s how I met Lorna.

Fly Fishing

I have to get back to this sport. My fly rod & reel have been dormant for too many years so I told myself it’s time to get back to fly fishing this summer. Andrew Sigwalt is quite the fly fisherman and ties his own flies. I’ll see if I can bum a few flies from him for panfishing. He fishes a lot on the Green River for smallmouth bass.

Hildalgo Express

I don’t know if there are enough good accolades about Notre Dame ladies BB player, Hannah Hildalgo. As a freshman, she already has set records at ND. Last week they played a good Louisville team and lost, but it wasn’t before she scored 30 points and got 7 steals. She is so much fun watching her on the hard boards. She has a lot of fans and I’m one of them. One more thing! They have an outstanding coach, Niele Ivey. For 42 years I officiated both girls and boys basketball on both sides of the Mississippi River (Iowa and Illinois) and in my opinion, Ivey and her staff get “the” best out of the players.

Boy Scout Breakfast

One last reminder that the Geneseo Boy Scout Troop 100 is having their “Annual Public Breakfast” on Sunday, February 18, 2024, from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The fundraiser is only $7.00 per person with children age 5 and under free. It is always a good thing to support both the Boys and Girls Scout organizations.

Quote of the Week

“There is no sport in hate when all the rage is on one side.” P.B. Shelley

The Fattest Knight at King Arthur’s Round Table - By Dan Dauw

Valentine’s Dinner Feb 13th

Brought to you by those friendly Galva Kiwanis members. This event will be held on the day “before” Valentine’s Day. It will take place at the Galva American Legion from 5 to 7 p.m. The dinner includes New York strip steak, potatoes, green beans, dessert and drink for only $25.00 a person. Our engagement was on Valentine’s Day many moons ago. Oh, wait! Dale Collis lives in Galva. That’s okay, he probably doesn’t know how to get to the Legion anyway!!!

Boy Scout Breakfast

This is just a reminder that the Geneseo Boy Scout Troop 100 is having their “Annual Public Breakfast” on Sunday, February 18, 2024, from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. It will be held at the Geneseo Moose Lodge. This fundraiser is only $7.00 per person with kids age 5 & under free. Besides pancakes, sausages, applesauce, orange juice, milk and coffee, new this year will include scrambled eggs and hashbrowns. You won’t go home hungry that’s for sure!

Geneseo Ikes Meeting

This is also a reminder that the Geneseo Izaak Walton League will meet at their lodge on Monday, February 12, 2024, at 7 p.m. The public is invited. Refreshments provided.

Cold Water Creek Banquet

Another reminder I must mention here is the local chapter of Whitetails Unlimited will be hosting their annual banquet on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Lavender Crest Winery, Colona, IL. It begins at 4 p.m. with dinner at 6 p.m. Tickets are $55.00 per single, $35.00 for spouse or child age 15 or under. Ticket orderdeadline is February 21, 2024. For more information contact Cindy Jackson at 309-373-1154.

Geneseo Kiwanis Pancake Day

Lastly, ladies and gentlemen members of Kiwanis will hold their annual “Pancake Day” on Sunday, March 3rd at the Moose Lodge. I’m not sure on times and cost.

Hannah Hidalgo

In all my 42 years of officiating basketball this Notre Dame Freshman BB player is a blast to watch on the court. She is lightening fast and plays the game with such intensity. She leads the league in steals (106 as of this writing). On Sunday, Feb 4th, ND played Pitt. The first half her offense was not the greatest and she got so frustrated ND Coach Ivy took her out of the game for a few minutes to settle her down. Her defense was excellent, but that was not good enough for her. The second half she was awesome on the court (22 points) and she is only a freshman. She is a “take charge” player and so fun to watch. I’d like to see ND get to the big dance, but the South Carolina women’s BB team are really, really good.

No Ice Fishing

Unless you can walk on water, best forget about it. I think this is the third or fourth January in a row the Geneseo Ikes had to cancel their annual ice fishing derby because of unsafe ice. Yes, the mild temps have been nice, but for those merchants that depend on the snow months, things may not so grand. Other than those heavy snows we had for a few days, I wonder how the soil moisture is for farmers? We’ve still a fair amount of winter to go before March 19th, so who knows at this point what Mother Nature has in store for us?

Things you may not know

1. According to the Wildlife Society, cats kill about 2.4 million birds per year.

Which reminds me the other day I saw a beautiful black ‘n white cat in our backyard.

1. A vampire bat will die if it does not have a meal of blood within 2 or 3 days. Not sure how that works for Dracula?

2. Hard to believe this, but the average American will eat the equivalent of 28 pigs in their lifetime. Maybe that’s why we don’t see Porky Pig anymore.

3. Rhinos belong to the same family as horses. Whales are more closely related to Hippos.

4. Turkeys can see color. It is said they can fly as fast as 60 m.p.h.

Humor

The fattest knight at King Arthur’s round table was Sir Conference. He acquired his size from eating too much “pi.”

A hole has been found in the nudist camp wall. The police are looking into it.

Atheism is a non-prophet organization.

Two silk worms had a race. They ended up in a tie.

Quote of the Week

“Though the people support the government, the government should not support the people.” Grover Cleveland

The Judge Gave Me 20 Years!

Boy Scout Troop 100 Public Breakfast

You don’t want to pass up on this nice annual event put on by the Geneseo Boy Scout Troop 100. They will be serving pancakes, sausages, applesauce, orange juice, milk & coffee. Ah, but it gets better! New this year they will also be adding scrambled eggs and hashbrowns while supplies last. The date of the event is Sunday, February 18, 2024 from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

It will be held at the Geneseo Moose Lodge. This fundraiser is only $7.00 per person with kids age 5 & under free. Because all the proceeds stay with Troop 100, which provides the expansion access to scouting opportunities, I might suggest throwing in an extra buck or two to help them out. Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts are awesome organizations.

Rep. Roy Swanson

A few weeks ago, I contacted IL State Representative, Dist. 71, about any stats there have been on the January 1st firearms register bill? Going by memory, but I believe there were 170 type firearms that had to be registered with the Illinois State Police. Each firearm had to have an affidavit completed by January 1st to be legal. Here are the results from October 1, 2023 to December 31, 2023. Number of individuals completing an affidavit: 29,357; Total affidavits: 112, 350; Firearms affidavits: 68,992; Accessory affidavits: 42,830; Ammunition affidavits: 528. I wonder how many “did not” complete an affidavit for one of the listed firearms, accessory and/or ammunition affidavits? You can bet confiscation is next!

For more information you might try: https://isp.illinois.gov/Foid/Statistics. I thank Rep. Dan Swanson for his prompt and helpful information.

Megan Plumley takes the Gold

A big “Congratulations” has to go to this Girl Scout young lady for her local compost project. Not just that, but she built bird, bat, and owl houses to be installed around Cole Cabin, north of Geneseo. Really, she has done so much more which earned her the highest Girl Scout award, the “2024 Gold Award.” We know her parents and grandparents are very proud of her.

Geneseo Kiwanis Pancake Day

Write on your calendar or punch in your iphone that the Geneseo Kiwanis is holding their annual “Pancake Day” on Sunday, March 3rd, at the Geneseo Moose Lodge. I’ll have more details in a few weeks.

Hometown Catering

I wish I’d had recognized this food service in Atkinson, IL, sooner. They provide the dinner for the Geneseo Kiwanis meeting on Tuesday evenings. Let me tell you, their food is excellent! Compliments to Jeff, Lana and others for their great meals.

Two New Birds

I really enjoy sitting at the patio door and watch the birds feeding at our feeders. Today, we had two new species. A blue jay and a northern flicker stopped by for some suet. Sometimes we have as many as 40-50 various birds. They love the suet cakes and sunflower seeds. I hate to think what we’ve spent on bird feed so far this winter! Oh, well, at my age, why not enjoy Mother Nature’s flying beauties while I can.

Humor

1. When I worked for the Postal Service, my boss, Dennis, called me the “Computer.” It had nothing to do with intelligence. I just go to sleep if left unattended for 15 minutes.

2. We were at a local restaurant a few days ago. Our waitress was excellent. A little later she came over to our table and asked me how did I find my steak? I answered, “I just looked next to the potatoes and there it was.”

3. I was at the doctor and he said I had only 6 months of life. So, I shot him. The judge gave me 20 years!!!

Quote of the Week

“He best keeps from anger who remembers that God is always looking upon him.” Plato.

Why is Monastery Food So Greasy? - By Dan Dauw

Left Iowa

Yay!!!! The politicians have left to New Hampshire, South Carolina, and so on. If I had participated in the Iowa caucus my vote would have been for Nikki Haley. Unfortunately, unless some kind of miracle takes place, Trump wins the Republican nomination.

It Just Never Ends

So, two weeks ago I was mounting a WW1 French rifle on a wall for display when the nine pound, heavy weight slipped out of my hand and landed on my toe. Boy, did that hurt. Went to the doctor and had x-rays. They are not sure that it isn’t frost bite which is a separate issue. Whatever, it looks like no ice fishing for a while. “It’s always something!”

Cold Water Creek Banquet

This Whitetails Unlimited local chapter will be hosting their annual banquet on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Lavender Crest Winery, Colona, IL. It begins at 4 p.m. with dinner at 6 p.m. Tickets are $55 per single, $35 for spouse or child age 15 or under. Ticket order deadline is February 21, 2024. For more info contact Cindy Jackson @ 309-373-1 154.

Sports

Tough lost to the Packers, 24 – 21. Friend, Bob Mays, Geneseo, is a big Packer fan. I told him he should take something for that. I’m not a Hawkeye fan, (Go, ISU) but that Clark gal for the IA Hawkeye ladies BB team is awesome. Betcha they will be in the champion game. I hope the Notre Dame ladies make it to the the big game, but it is doubtful that will happen. They do have a good team and are fun to watch, especially that freshman, Hannah Hidalgo. I don’t know if Coach Ivey ever intends to play Olivia Miles, but if so, what a one guard, two guard punch that would be.

Assassinate President Harry Truman

I never knew about this, but in 1950, two ardent Puerto Rican Nationalists tried to shoot President Truman when he was at the Blair House. At 2:30 p.m. Truman was taking a nap when the two assassins shot their way into the Blair House using a German Luger and a P-38 pistol. Two White House guards were shot. Truman came to the window and one of the assassins was just 31 feet from the President, but he had not noticed Truman until it was too late.

One of the guards, who was shot, still managed to shoot and kill the assassin. The other assassin had been shot, but managed to live. He was sentenced to death, but in 1952, President Truman commuted his sentence to life in prison.

Humor

Why didn’t the oyster share his dessert? Ans: He was shellfish.

What did the raspberry say to the other? Ans: “Look at the jam you got us into.”

Why is monastery food so greasy? Ans: It’s all cooked by friars.

Quote of the Week

“A jackass can kick a barn down, but it takes a carpenter to build one.” Sam Rayburn.

The 1 dollar bill that Bob Mays is showing is what his Packer sweatshirt is worth. Well, minus 75 cents.  "Go, Bears!"  

Early to Rise and Early to Bed - By Dan Dauw

One wicked Storm

Wow!! I don’t know if the weather people call it a blizzard that hit us last Friday, but I sure do. I had to use the old snowblower three times. The Dish is up on our roof and when it snows the snow hinders the signal. Fortunately, way back when I kept the TV antenna hooked up when we got the Dish. Still, it’s a pain getting up the ladder and cleaning the white stuff off the Dish. I also spray it with deicer and that helps somewhat. Let’s hope Mother Nature behaves herself and gives us more mild weather conditions. If she does not, her “boss” in the heavens above can dock her pay.

Postponed

The Civil War Underground Railroad presentation for January 20th at the Geneseo Library will be rescheduled to a later date.

Reminder

As we enter into the new year, you might want to check on expiration dates on various licenses. If you have a FOID card it is good for 10 years. If you have a Conceal Carry permit it is good for 5 years. While your driver’s license expires on your birthday, the CC and FOID cards do not. Remember, if you own a firearm in Illinois, you must have a FOID card.

Snowmobile Safety

Most riders know the #1 safety feature is wearing the proper gear with the head gear (helmet) being the most important. Most helmets today have built-in eye protection, but if not, purchase a good set of goggles. Make sure if the temp’s hover around zero or there abouts wear heavy protection from frostbite. Obviously, your face, hands and feet are the most dangerous areas. It is best “not” to ride alone in case of an accident or mechanical problems. Depending on your age, you may have to take an approved Illinois safety snowmobile course.

Odd way to Fish

I am not going to mention his name, but he’s well known in Geneseo. Anyway, he told me about one time he was snowmobiling on the canal, not on the path, but on the frozen water. All of a sudden, he found himself on a stretch of icy, non-frozen water. He suddenly found himself sinking. He contacted a friend and together they managed to get the machine out of the water and on the bank. As the water came pouring out, it wasn’t just all water. It was a live bullhead. Ha! Maybe not the best way to go fishing!

Clopper Gobbler

It’s been a while, but I have to tell you about the time I went searching for mushrooms at a farm south of Geneseo. I was deep in the woods and found a few dandy ones. I was bent over when one big tom turkey whacked me on my behind. It did hurt! I threw a stick I had with me at him. He then went over to my old Datsun and “attacked it!” If I had my old scatter gun I would have dispatched “his” butt! Afterwards I told the farmer about my close encounter and he wasn’t surprised. He said that one time that old bird chased after him when he was on his tractor.

Feed ‘da Birds

With all the heavy snow it is difficult for our friendly feathered friends to find food. Of course, many birds became “snowbirds” so those who stick it out here, “roll the dice” you local parrots!

Senior Humor

You know you’re getting old when you can’t find your glasses without your glasses. So far, with this tough winter, I’m wondering if I should have moved south by now? “High time.

Parts of my body already have!” Twenty years ago I never thought I’d find myself doing this.

For example:

1) Microwaving everything I eat.

2) Going to the grocery store on days they give out free samples.

3) Worrying about my cholesterol level.

4) Eating so many vitamin pills.

5) A little poetic here: “Early to rise and early to “bed” makes me healthy, wealthy, and “dead.”

Cowabunga, Baby! - By Dan Dauw

Happy New Year

We hope you have a nice 2024. For several years, we always go to The Cellar for dinner on New Year’s Eve. We being Lorna, myself, Lorna’s sister, Elneta, and a close friend, Sue. The Cellar’s food and service are excellent! It was nice to see waitress, “Cindy,” there, too. Here is a little tip I do for reservations.

Before you leave the restaurant, or even before, give the lady at the standup desk a note that reads, “THE CELLAR, RESERVATIONS FOR 4 ON NEW YEAR’S EVE, DECEMBER 31, 2024 AT 5 P.M. (Include your name and phone number). The lady will record it in her reservation book, and ‘yer good-to-go for your next New Year’s Eve visit. Of course, if you check-out here on earth within the year, you might give the place a courtesy call from heaven, assuming that’s where you’ll be! If it’s the other place, at least your steak will be well done!!

Fran Riley

It was a nice tribute that KWQC-TV recently did on Fran Riley. I go back a long way when he was with WHBF-TV and I was with the postal service. During Christmas time he and his photographer would show all the mail being sorted during the busy holiday season. He did a spot at our house one time, but I can’t remember what it was for? Maybe it was on our pet boa constrictor.

One time there was a sad time we needed to talked about. I won’t go into detail, but it just showed what a class guy Fran was. While he has since passed away, Fran Riley was a great guy.

Winter Blues

I really don’t have much news or information while I pound these keys. There are a ton of things to write about during the warmer months, but winter is always a challenge for me. As for sports on TV, there are some good basketball games to be played and ice-skating competition is enjoyable. You know from here on politics will be center court and I can just take so much of their b.s. Excuse my French! We’re not snowbirds and there is just so much ice fishing, TV, reading a good book and so on. Speaking of basketball, the other day I watched the game between UCLA and the Oregon Ducks. I think the Oregon basketball court is totally ugly (Sorry fan, Diane DeBruyckere.) It is supposed to look like fur trees surrounding the floor, but I think it looks so odd. Just my opinion!

Go, Lions

Making the playoffs was not in ‘da Bears DNA for this season. So, I hope the Lions can go all the way. They have had lousy teams for several years. They lost a heart braker to the Cowboys a couple of Saturdays ago. It’s time for the Lions. Advice to the coach: “Use running back, David Montgomery, MORE!” Sometimes he can carry 6 guys on his back and “still” make yardage. Wish the Bears still had him.

Speaking of which, I hope ‘da Bears keep QB Fields. Stop this insane search for a “JC” like QB that will take us to the promise land. No, Field’s is not perfect. None of the QBs, past ‘n present are? So, wise up-front office and keep the dude!!

Notre Dame Girls Basketball

Yeah, that December 31st Syracuse game was a tough lost for the Irish. They will meet again at South Bend on January 25th. Revenge is such sweet sorrow! “Go, Irish!”

Underground RR

Most of us know there was an underground railroad during the Civil War, but maybe little more than that. Angie Snook, Historian, will give a program on that sad, but important roll whites and blacks helped slaves from persecution in the south. The presentation will be held at the Geneseo Public Library on January 20, 2024, at 2 p.m. I know we plan on attending.

Black Atlantic Sailors

Two Saturdays ago I watched a very interesting program on the American History TV channel. Author Michael Schoeppner discussed about 20,000 black maritime workers who were imprisoned by officials in southern port cities between 1822 and 1857. Black sailors worked aboard ships, but when they dropped anchor in southern ports, blacks were taken off the ships and jailed. In one case, a high ransom had to be paid for the sailor’s return.

One time a captain of a ship told the crew they were headed to New York. For whatever reason, the captain changed course and headed to a southern port. The 16 black sailors figured it out where the ship was headed and mutinied. Before the Civil War, those (free) black sailors on U.S. Navy ships were not jailed in southern port cities. England was neutral and their black sailors were also not jailed. If you type in author Michael Schoeppner’s name you can watch his presentation.

Airplane Humor

Geneseo’s Tony Simon is a golfer and a pilot. So, he said over the intercom on a flight, “Since this is a long flight we recommend you do some sort of physical activity. Because of the glass windows, we do not recommend golf.”

A flight attendant said over the intercom, “Sorry for the bumpy ride. The pilot was just dodging some trees.” Flying very low over Green River the flight attendant told the passengers, “In the event of a water landing, please do not yell, “Cowabunga, baby!”

Better in Technicolor - By Dan Dauw

Concealed Carry License

For those of you newcomers who wish to obtain an Illinois Conceal Carry License, JW’s Shooting Parlor, 207 N. State St, Geneseo, IL, will be conducting classes on January 27-28, 2024. You will need to attend both classes from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. One of those days you will need to bring your handgun or maybe they can loan you one for the firing range. I took the classes almost 5 years ago and they were excellent.

The license is good for 5 years. For you individuals, like myself that need to reapply they will offer a one day, three hour refresher course. At this time, I don’t have the dates the refresher courses will be held, but you can always call them at 1-309-944-4174.

Hunting & Fishing Licenses

This is a reminder that the 2023 Iowa H & F licenses expire on Wednesday, January 10, 2024. The cost for a non-resident Iowa fishing license is $48.00. If you care to fish with 3 lines add $14.00 and if you wish to fish for trout add an additional $17.50. The Illinois 2023 resident fishing license will expire March 9, 2024. If you wish to trout fish you need a trout stamp. It is a small fee. Both Illinois and Iowa have excellent trout locations.

Follow the Yellow Brick Road

The iconic 1939 film, the Wizard of Oz premiered at a cinema in Green Bay, Wisconsin (Booo, Packers). The Hollywood premiere did not take place until 5 days later. It was first shown on television in 1956. Dorothy’s slippers were originally silver, but were changed to a ruby color because they would show up better in Technicolor. Somewhere Over The Rainbow was the last song written for the film. The Wicked Witch of the West, Margaret Hamilton, suffered burns to her face and hand during a scene using pyrotechnics. The sparks ignited the green powder used in her makeup.

Ice Fishing

More anglers fish in more moderate, warm temperatures rather than freezing their backside. However, if you dress warm, hot packs for the feet, a good warm winter coat with a hood, and of course, gloves, it’s not bad. An ice hut is nice, especially on windy days. It will be interesting to see what Mother Nature has in store for us during the next two months. She sure gave us some nice warm days for December. Between the three of us old anglers we caught some dandy fish. Ha! It’s doubtful she’ll dish out warm days for some time, but that’s were ice fishing can take up the slack!!

Carbon Cliff Bait & Tackle

It is open until September, 2024, which is good news for fishermen and hunters. It will be a sad day when it closes, but all good things must come to an end. The Pankeys’ have put a ton of hours into their business for many years including Jay’s parents and Jay’s wife, Deb.

Master of the Sea

I received a neat book from our son at Christmas. It’s entitled, “Guinness World Records 2024.” The book covers a host of information on different animals and humans. One animal I always find interesting is the octopus. One time myself and some fellow Navy buddies dropped anchor in Barcelona in 1963. Keeping with the old tradition of drunken sailors (not all sailors), we spent a fair amount of time in a local bar & restaurant. On the menu the restaurant served octopus. We all ordered a large size octopus, like you’d order a pizza.

It was nicely presented, but “yuk” for taste! An octopus does not have tentacles. It has “legs” and two arms which is used for hunting and swimming.

The octopus is a master of disguise. Not only that, but it can spew an ink like substance to confuse its enemies. It can release toxic chemicals that irritate its enemy’s eyes. They are also “boneless” and have a “beak” that they use to break up their food. Lastly, they have “jet propulsion” and can move up to 25 mph for short bursts.

Humor

A duck walks into a drugstore and asks for a tube of lipstick. The cashier says, “That will be $1.49,” and the duck replies, “Just put it on my bill.”

What do you say when someone throws a goose at a duck? “Duck, goose!”

Why was the bird arrested? He was robin!

Why did the chicken cross the road? Ans: “To get the New York Times, get it?”

“No, I get the Geneseo Current.com.”

You are Charging Me $500? - By Dan Dauw

First Lutheran Church Choir

Zowie!! This Geneseo church certainly has an awesome choir. On Tuesday, December 19th, the Geneseo Kiwanis had their “Guest Night” held at the church. For their entertainment the church choir sang various Christmas songs. Their last song, “Silent Night,” was joined in by the 67 Kiwanis members and guests. It really was a magical evening.

No Gators

Todd Sieben was fishing off the coast of Florida when his boat overturned. He could swim, but he was afraid of alligators so he just held on to the boat. Spotting an old beachcomber on shore, Todd yelled out, “Are there any alligators around here?” The old guy answered, “Naw, they haven’t been around for years!” Now feeling safe, Todd started swimming to shore. About halfway there he asked the guy, “How did you get rid of the ‘gators?” “We didn’t do anything,” said the beachcomber. “The sharks got ‘em all!”

Poor Hamster

Angie Snook quickly took her pet hamster to the vet, but sadly the vet looked it over and pronounced it dead. She wanted a second opinion so the vet brought in his pet Labrador retriever. It sniffed the little hamster and it shook his head. The vet said, “Yeah, it’s dead!” All of sudden a cat jumps up on the table, nudges it with its paw, and looked up and shook its head. Finally, Angie is convinced her hamster is dead. She asked the vet how much she owed for his services? He said, “That will be $500.00.” Angie said, “You are charging me $500.00 just to tell me my hamster is dead?” “Well, said the vet, there’s my prognosis, lab report and “cat scan.”

Ice Fishing This Winter

Well, maybe, maybe not! With the warmer than usual December days let’s hope we can have safe ice. To be smart, any 4” or more of thick ice is playing it safe. The past few years the ice conditions were up ‘n down. If ‘yer not sure, before going out on the ice, drill a few holes to gauge the ice thickness. Last winter I found ice fishing to be “iffy!” Last year our Geneseo Izaak Walton Ice Fishing Contest had to be cancelled because of unsafe ice conditions.

Up Your Sleeve

We are not card players. Even when I was in the Navy, I didn’t participate. One time Lorna and I played a few hands with another couple while on a fishing trip in Canada. They finally gave up on us. Setting all that aside, here are some card facts. 1) Some card games enforce a so-called, “British Rule.” It stipulates that the queen outranks the king whenever the British monarch is female. I guess it doesn’t apply now. 2) The fastest time a full deck of cards has ever been dealt is 16.92 seconds. 3) The chance of being dealt a royal flush in a game of poker is roughly 650,000 to one.

Donated Jokes

I think I’ll donate these hilarious (?) elevator jokes to Mr. Don Morrison of North Carolina. For some fun, the next time you’re in a crowded elevator yell “Ding” at each floor. What did one elevator say to the other? Ans: I think I’m coming down with something! Did you hear about the man who fell down an elevator shaft? He’s taking steps to avoid them now.

My old Lionel electric trains still work after all these years.  I still enjoy playing with them. This photo was taken before Christmas to show our grandkids what I enjoyed with growing up. Ha! All five of them are in high school, but hopefully one of them will carry on the tradition of model railroading, especially at Christmas time.