Applications Being Accepted for Geneseo Woman’s Club Scholarship in Honor of the Late Patti McNaught

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   The Geneseo Woman’s Club is offering a scholarship in honor of the late Patti McNaught, who was a 50-year member of the Woman’s Club before her death in 2022.

   Applications are being accepted for the $500 scholarship to be used to help pay for college expenses.  Applicants will need to provide proof that they are a graduate of Geneseo High School, currently enrolled in a college or university where their major is music education, and that they have completed at least two years.   The scholarship will be awarded directly to the recipient in the form of a check from the Geneseo Woman’s Club.  Application deadline is July 1 and those students who qualify may apply through this link: 

https://forms.gle/Bk4dWtHcvpvDdcqQ7

   The late Patti McNaught was involved with music in Geneseo from 1969 until her death in 2022.  She taught elementary music at Millikin Elementary School, accompanied the junior high and middle school choirs, taught piano lessons for more than 40 years, and accompanied many students for solo and ensemble contests. 

 

New Exhibition at Smith Studio and Gallery

David Smith
June 10, 2025
Smith Studio and Gallery

The Smith Studio and Gallery is sponsoring a solo exhibition of the creative prints of Jill Kramer, from Oak Park, Illinois. Jill received her MA in Art Education from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and her BFA in printmaking from Kent State University. She has been teaching for over 20 years in museum, school & community art settings and has facilitated programs for preschoolers to senior citizens.

A recent trip out West led Jill in a new direction with her artwork. Bike riding and drawing her way through different landscapes, Jill visited many National Parks in Utah and Nevada. Jill’s creative landscapes became more horizontal …more expansive. Her color palette became earth toned demonstrating her appreciation of the layered structure of the American West. Back home her images were cut into linoleum and printed in black oil-based ink. Each image was then meticulously hand painted in vibrant watercolor. 

THIS EXHIBITION WILL BE UP THRU July 31st.

Hours at the Smith Studio and Gallery are Tuesday through Saturday 10:00-5:00.

Closed on Sunday and Monday.

 

BEMER Therapy Now Available at Maple Leaf Medical in Geneseo - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   What is BEMER Therapy was my question and Julie Theill provided an excellent answer.   BEMER is an acronym for Bio-Electric-Magnetic Energy Regulation. 

 Heather DeBrock, left; and Julie Theill are shown with the equipment used in BEMER Therapy services now available at Maple Leaf Medical.    Free educational programs and demonstrations of BEMER will be at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, June 17, and again on Tuesday, July 15, at Maple Leaf Medical, 127 South State St., in downtown Geneseo.  For more information, call Theill at 309-714-1299.  Theill also will be at the 25th Annual Quad City Triathlon having BEMER therapy sessions available for athletes for performance and recovery.

   “It’s a science-backed wellness device developed in Europe and now available in over 40 countries, including right here in our hometown,” Theill explained.  “BEMER uses a low pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMP) to stimulate microcirculation – the flow of blood through the tiniest vessels in the body, where oxygen and nutrients are delivered, and waste is removed.”

   It was Theill who introduced BEMER to Heather DeBrock, who owns and operates Maple Leaf Medical, located at 127 South State St. in Geneseo.

   Through her business, DeBrock provides CPAP/BIPAP machines and supplies, along with daily living aids, for patients that have sleep apnea.

   The two businesses are separate, but housed at the same address.

   Theill is an independent distributor for BEMER, now provided at Maple Leaf Medical, and DeBrock said, “Julie has her own clientele as well, so we collaborated to be of the best service possible to the community.”

MORE ABOUT BEMER FROM THEILL

   Theill commented, “In today’s fast paced world, staying healthy and energized can be a challenge, especially for busy adults, seniors, and anyone recovering from injury or managing chronic discomfort.  That’s why more and more people in our community are turning to BEMER therapy, a non-invasive wellness technology that supports healthy circulation, promotes recovery, longevity and helps the body do what it’s designed to do:  heal and thrive.

   Healthy microcirculation is essential for everything from energy and sleep to muscle recovery and immune health.  Btu as we age or deal with stress, illness, or inactivity, circulation often suffers.  That’s where BEMER comes in.

   Using a BEMER body mat, focused pad, users lie down or sit comfortably while the device emits a specific wave signal that encourages the body’s natural blood flow.  Sessions are just eight minutes on the body pad making it easy to fit into a daily routine.  Many people report feeling more relaxed, alert, energized, and having less discomfort – even after the first use.”

   Theill said anyone looking to enhance their microcirculation – the flow of blood through the smallest vessels in the body – can benefit from BEMER…”When microcirculation is improved, cells receive more oxygen and nutrients, and the body can remove waste products more efficiently.  This foundational function supports nearly every aspect of health.

   Enhanced microcirculation doesn’t just help you feel better, it helps your body function better, every day.  Whether you’re managing a chronic or acute condition or just want to feel your best, enhancing your microcirculation with the use of the BEMER can be a simple and effective addition to your daily wellness routine.”

  When asked if BEMER Therapy replaces physical therapy Theill answered, “It is not a replacement for therapy, BEMER therapy can be utilized as an adjunct modality to Occupational and Physical Therapy, Chiropractic care and overall wellness and longevity.  It improves outcomes and healing as a result facilitating enhanced microcirculation or improved local blood flow.  While BEMER therapy is not condition or diagnosis specific, it is utilized for overall health, sport (performance and recovery), prevention and rehabilitation.”

MEET JULIE THEILL

   Theill’s vast knowledge of BEMER is impressive as she has more than 30 years of experience in the health care field.

   She worked at Hammond-Henry Hospital in Geneseo for nearly 22 years, serving as Director of Rehab and Long-Term Care Living Center.

   “During my tenure, over 20 new community programs were developed in the rehab department which included aquatic rehab, women’s health and sports medicine services to name a few,” she said. 

   A 5-Star rating for the LTC Living Center also was achieved during her employment with Hammond-Henry.  

   Her experience also includes teaching as adjunct faculty in the Occupational Therapy program at St. Ambrose University.  She received a Kinesiology Degree form the University of Illinois and her Occupational Therapy and MBA in Healthcare Degrees from St. Ambrose University.

   When asked what led her to learn about BEMER, Theill shared that she retired in 2023 to assist her Mom in caring for her Dad who had Alzheimer’s…”When I returned to work, after my Dad’s extended illness and passing, I learned bout the BEMER at an outpatient therapy practice in the Quad Cities.  They were using BEMER therapy as part of their rehab services.  I attended my first BEMER Academy in Davenport in early 2024 and started using it with my patients.  When I saw the dramatic outcomes, my patients were achieving I knew I needed to bring BEMER to Geneseo and the surrounding communities.  With Heather’s (DeBrock) approval, I was blessed to have the opportunity to do so at Maple Leaf Medical in May of 2024.  I opened the BEMER clinic at Maple Leaf Medical.”

   Theill occupies a suite within Maple Leaf Medical and BEMER sessions ae available by appointment by calling at 309-714-1299.

GHS 2nd Semester Honor Rolls

First Honor Roll - GPA 3.50 to 5.40 GPA

Class of 2025

Mason Anderson, Kamden Ariano, Shane Bagby, Liliana Balluff, Rachael Bauer, William Baum, Mason Bealer, Sophia Bellagamba, Aaron Betcher, Jackson Brumbaugh, Gage Buckallew, Elizabeth Carlin, Anthony Carter, Avery Catour, Tyler Chamberlain, Marley Cherry, Sophia Clifton, Emma Cocci, Dylan Cotty, Dru Curcuru, Isabella Curcuru, Elanor DeBlieck, Ava DeWolfe, Connor Douglas, Alayna Duckett, Katelyn Durnell, Kendall Ellerbrock, Addison Espe, Allison File, Kayden Fouts, Kayci Freeman, Dylan Gehl, Caroline Girten, Brady Hamer, Christian Haney, Lindsay Herington, Sydney Hoover, Devan Hornback, Keaton Hudson, Hayliegh-Jane Huglin, Malloree Humphrey, Lily Johnson, Matthew Johnson, Max Johnson, Logan Jones, Preston Jones, Ayden Kane, Hope Kuster, Julia Lewis, Kruiz Ludwig, Annalise Maxwell, Katelynn McMahill, Jackson Moore, Elizabeth Mroz, Jacob Nelson, Sydney Nelson, Kyah Newell, Kale O’Bryan, Colin Orwig, Owen Parker, Jennifer Parsons, Austin Pearce, Dylan Randolph, Allison Reade, Xzavier Reuter, Jeslen Rink, Keely Roberts, Benjamin Robinson, Tristan Robinson, Cavence Rokis, Rachael Roodhouse, Nile Ryerson, Marian Sanchez Sigala, Marian Sancken, Kara Y. Schehl, Shay A. Schmitt, Emilia R. Sebastian, Timothy J. Sheehan, Callaghan Sherbeyn, Paxton A. Skovronski, Dylan Snell, Payton Snider, Addison Snodgrass, Avery Snook, Elli Snyder, Dyllan Staffeldt, Eric States, Lillian Taylor, Jordan Thomas, Kathryn VanDeWoestyne, Logan VanDeWoestyne, Bryson VanHoutte, Carter VanOpdorp, Joseph Venneberg, Joseph Versluis, Stormie Wancket, Gavin Wates, Blake Welge, Dylan Whipple, Kailee Williams, Abby Wilshusen, Braelyn Wyffels

Class of 2026

Zara Andersen, Isabella Angelo, Natalie Aukee, Eliana Barickman, Calvin Bell, Grady Bernahl, Christopher Berry Jr., Greta Bolme, Grant Bomleny, Erin Bowers, Bryson Boxell, Ava Brewer, Aiden Bries, Reid Brodersen, Isabella Brooks, Brennan Brown, Aiden Brudos, Liberty Brumbaugh, Jordan Cechowicz, Joei Christopherson, Brody Clementz, Jack Cooper, Jameson Coppejans, Erika Cotty, Samuel Curcuru, Matthew Darnall, Anna Davis, Ava DeSplinter, Keira Disterhoft, Kaydee Eighmy, Quinnland Einfeldt, Landon Favri, Jonathan Freadhoff, Taber Fulks, Anabella Goethals, Cora Gorman, Dalten Grimes, Bradley Hartman, Hayley Henry, Lucan Herstedt, Christopher Hill, Payton Hofer, Alexandria Hull, Luise Jacobi, Adam Johnson, Andrew Kelly, Erik Kelly, Owen Kelly, Peyton Kies, Devan Lagaisse, Catherine Lehman, Karen Lester, Emma Loehr, Hannah Loehr, Tavion Mangin, Brock Marshall, Jackson McAvoy, Aden McCann, Dawsyn McDonald, Hannah McGee, Cameron Melchert, Janey Neumann, Wyatt Neumann, Gavin Nicholson, Serina Nimrick, Isacc Nixon, Eliana Oaks, Reyhan Onder, Mahi Patel, Lucille Peters, Taylor Peterson, Meya Pollock, Landry Possin, Elizabeth Rapps, Madison Reade, Cy Sammons, Chase Sanders, Bee Scheider, Nina Schmedding, Remy Sharpe, Leland Stickle, Hannah Stone, Tucker Tarkington, Paislee Tuggle, Jay VanHerzeele, Quinntyn VanHyfte, Callie VanKerrebroeck, Ashton Veloz, Cameron Walker, Kye Weinzierl, Madeline Wells, Kjerstin Wildemuth, Kathryn Wilson, Claire Yenor

Class of 2027

Mackenzie Air, Alejandro Aleman, Elena Anderson, Lilliana Anderson, Keaton Ariano, Flynn Arnett, Alexandra Bagby, Mia Balensiefen, Jacob Berry, Eleanor Bertelsen, Annabelle Betcher, Nathan Billingsly, Erik Bjorkman, Grant Bjorkman, Taylor Boone, Ethan Brown, Isabella Brown, Lillian Brown, Jaydon Burrage, Grace Carlson, Kolby Causemaker, Callie Copeland, Phoenix Corlew, Evelyn Dahl, Manuel De San Juan Ayala, Claire DeGrave, Katelyn DeRycke, Carter Dickey, Remlee Dwyer, Leah Falk, Taefyl Freeman, Tyler Gerstel, Kiersten Hancock, Hazel Harris, Emily Haverback, Lambeau Janczak, Maddox Jansen, Mckenna Johnson, Micah Johnson, Scarlyt Johnson, Grace Kaiser, Trenton Kennedy, Matthew Kerschieter, Lydia King, Mckenzie Krug, Aria Mayo-Bechtel, Madilyn Minnaert, Reese Minnaert, Zackery Nanninga, Mark Nelms, Tyler Nelson, Lainey Norville, Esref Onder, Samuel Ortiz, Eli Palmer, Viola Pettit, Lauren Piquard, Carson Pratt, Natalie Reisner, Dominic Ritter, Sydney Rosas, Hayley Rubitsky, Brooklyn Ruby, Connor Runty, Ayla Schultz, Nyna Schweitzer, Brylee Sheffler, Brooke Shollenberger, Reid Simpson, Brooklyn Smith, Ayame Stroh, Claire Swanson,Jeel Vakharia, Jiya Vakharia, Emma Vandeveer, Lucille Wachtel, Kendyl Wassenhove, Jayden Wexell, Alexis Williams, Justin Williams, Robert Wolfe, Rebekah Zimmerman

Class of 2028

Raidyn Allison, Stella Allison, Claudia Angelo, Cyrus Babcock, Katherine Barickman, Landon Barnett, Layna Bassett, Luke Bedford, Lillian Bellagamba, Evan Bender, Tivya Bernier, Fritz Bolme, Allison Boone, Braxton Boone, Kanon Boster, Alivia Brown, Jaylee. Brudos, Rylan Carlson, Lydia Carton, Quinn Cherry, Taeton Chirchir, Ella Clementz, Cole Clifton, Ella Clifton, Harrison Conley, Elijah Coppejans, Brayden Cox, Mallory Daniels, Evelyn DeBaene, Emilie DeCastecker, Madelyn DeJohn, Olivia DeSplinter, Bryce Diehl, Isla Disterhoft, Camryn Ebert, Megan Ehlert, Mason Emerick, Brycen Fahnestock, Andrew Feely, Jasmine Foss, Carter French, Gretchen Fuelling, Jacey Gehl, Gavin Gillespie, Karlee Hankins, Kade Heilman, Kaylin Heller, Cole Henson, Skylar Hileman, Austen Kane, Anadiyah Karn, Anabella Kelley, Lilah Klotz, Cooper Largent, Raygen McKeag, Ian McShane, Addison McSparin, Catalina Meis, Faith Mierop, Natalie Minnaert-Yocum, Ainsleigh Misfeldt, Madison Morrison, Micah Nicke, Anastasia Pitsoulakis, Aleksie Possin, William Rankins, Jaeden Robertson, Colin Roemer, Macey Rosholm, Ida Rowold, Ella Schaaf, Meghan Scheider, Brooklyn Schnowske, Jaxson Seals, Ella Shannon, Alyssa Simpson, Stella Smith, Addison Snell, Sophia Snell, Sydney State, Addilyn Swan, Ella Taylor, Luca Turigliatti, Kellen VanKerrebroeck, Eden VanOpdorp, Patrick Versluis, Nicole Werling, Hannah Wildemuth, Sage Windisch, Peyton Woodruff

Second Honor Roll - GPA 3.00 to 3.49 GPA

Class of 2025

Camden Baumgardner, Brianna Bowles, Madisyn Buysse, Madisyn Jaidah Cribbs, Gauge Damewood, Erica DeDecker, Grant DeShane, Emma Drockelman, Alan Eastburn, Gwenivere Erickson, Elijah Ford, Brayden Franzen, Cole Freeman, Taylor Hawkins, Cody Hensley, Tyler Holtzen, Avery Kennedy, Owen King, Bailey Koning, Rylan Lambert, Elizabeth Lane, Aislan Leetch, Chloe Medler, Zachary Montez, Madelyn Mooney, Amber Newell, Bryce Nixon, Dylan Pankey, Jack Polowy, Kaleb Rahn, Antonio Ramirez, Cooper Ries, Ava Rusk, Ava Sedam, Olivia Seei, Bryson Splear, Nathanial Stees, Charlie Stetter, Jacob Taylor, Leo Underwood, Hayden Veryzer, Jaylyn Wakenight, Sabine Whitmer, Kaylee Wood

Class of 2026

Harrison Air, Bella Bailey, Emily Banker, Lincoln Barnett, Zoey Baughn, Kamron Burris, Graysen Carlson, Jessica Cartwright, Jocelyn Cechowicz, Mylee Clark, Liam Coleman, Tyler Dowdal, Margaret Elder, Perry Farley, Boone Forsythe, Breckan Gomez, Jessa Gramling, Emily Hall, Baela Hansen, Jarett Hasson, Carter Holke, Jacob Holley, Abigail Holman, Alfredo Jimenez, Kameryn Keegan, Charlotte Kroll, Alegna Lopez, Emma Massingill, James Matthews II, Jackie Milem, Jaiden Minnaert, Landon Nordstrom, Shrey Patel, Michael Peterson, Theodore Phillips, Theodore J. Ramirez, Annabelle Ropp, Hayden Schaaf, Mckinsey Sharp, Alexander Snyder, Mya Splear, Maddie Steinert, Kwin VanKerrebroeck, Nick Vyas, Kayleigh Wooden

Class of 2027

Payton Boone, Wyatt Bruce, Gaje Davila, Aiden DeCap, Andre Diediker, Tristan Ferrell, Izaac Gaines,Ethan Galloway, Tyler Gross, Keely Henry, Jakob Hodges, William Holley, Cheyenne Hopkey, Megan Hursman, Alexis Johnson, Aksel Kincaid, Jack Kreiss, Gannon Marckese, Riley Marolf, Khyler McDowell, Jack Mickley, Carson Peters, Maddison Rakestraw, Sydney Rasmussen, Landon Rogers, Lillian Roodhouse, Finnegan Schaad, Molly Snyder, Paizley Stewart, Lilly Stubbs, Easton Swan, Joseph Thoene, Delaney Vroman, Jensen Vroman, Connor Webster, AvaLynn Westfall, Kylee Wisely

Class of 2028

Piper Andersen, Logan Betcher, Nolan Burton, Sophie Carter, Greyson Claerhout, Brynn Coats, Brinnley Coppejans, Lydia DeKezel, Gracyn DeShane, Sophia Doyle, Riley Dwyer, Aaron Ernst, Phoenix Ferro-Heller, Jackson Frank, Hannah Fuelling, Jack Gehling, Evelyn Gernant, Vance Hansen, James Hill III, Cameron Jansen, Caimbrie Jozwiak, Annibelle Juarez, Penelope Kline, Josephine Kubicek, Mayson Lambin, Rayne Mangin, Grace McCallister, Isabella McConville, Alice Miller, Keelie Mueller, Quin Nichols, Evan Orwig, Jadynn Pollard, Arianna Robbins, Dylan Schneider, Titus Schweitzer, Emma Sebastian, Madelyn T. Sherman, Haylee Short, Luke Snodgrass, Kyla Strode, Keiran Thornburg, Chase VanDeWoestyne, Korionna VanZuiden, Kailee Von Motz, Jayden Wheaton, Olivia Yost

Steel Magnolias, a Heartwarming Enjoyable Show - By Elizabeth Hulsbrink

Steel Magnolias
Richmond Hill Players
May 29-June 1 & June 5-8, 2025
By Elizabeth Hulsbrink

Upon walking into Truvy Jones’ beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, (circa late 1980s), I couldn’t help but notice the pictures on the wall- big hair, lots of perms, classic 1980s fashion, PINK- but the subtle, yet profound, homage to the original 1989 movie cast head shots was the real winner!

Richmond Hill Players’ production of Robert Harling’s Steel Magnolias directed by Megan McConville, was a heartwarming, enjoyable story which the cast and crew delivered as a performance full of charm, humor, and heartfelt moments. Originally written as a short story to help heal personal experience with death due to diabetic complications, moved to an Off-Broadway play, then to the big screen. At the heart of the story is Shelby Eatenton-Latcherie, played with grace and spirit by Leslie Day, whose vibrant life and resilience bring both joy and poignancy to the small-town Louisiana beauty salon where the women of Steel Magnolias gather to share laughter, support, and sorrow.

McConville’s thoughtful direction allowed each actress to shine while creating an authentic sense of friendship and community. Jessica Moore brought warmth and wit to the role of Truvy Jones, the salon’s lively and compassionate owner. Real hair dresser Megan Abell’s portrayal of Annelle Dupuy-Desoto added both innocence and transformation as the newcomer to the group. Pam Kobre was a delight as the stylish and sassy Clairee Belcher, while Suzanne Rakestraw gave a deeply moving performance as Shelby’s strong and loving mother, M’Lynn Eatenton. Rounding out the ensemble, Heidi Hamer stole scenes with her sharp-tongued and unapologetically bold Ouiser Boudreaux. Together, this talented cast captured the enduring bond between women and the mix of laughter and loss that makes this show memorable.

Set entirely within Truvy’s beauty salon, Steel Magnolias follows the lives of six Southern women as they navigate life’s joys and heartbreaks together over the course of just two and a half years. Centered around Shelby’s decision to have a child despite serious health risks, the story unfolds with moments of humor, tenderness, and deep emotional strength. As seasons change, so do the women, revealing the resilience and love that hold them together.

Admittedly, though this particular story does not fully resonate with me, it’s clear that the cast and crew approached the production with dedication and care, and the audience thoroughly enjoyed the show! Their commitment to honoring this beloved play was evident in the thoughtful performances and collaborative spirit on stage. I’d like to give a special salute to Megan McConville, who in her directorial debut, did a fabulous job with this challenging piece. Though she herself has not yet acted on the Richmond Hill stage, her work behind the scenes with many productions proved she has a good eye for details. Well done!

 

GHS Students Own and Operate Waterwerks - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Waterwerks is a pressure washing and window washing business founded by Geneseo High School students James Matthews and Alex Snyder.  They take appointments by phone at 309-507-6816.  Photo by Claudia Loucks

   James Matthews and Alex Snyder are co-owners and operators of Waterwerks – Pressure Washing & Window Cleaning business they launched two years ago, just after their freshman year at GHS.   The business is now a full-time operation, which they plan to continue after high school graduation.

   It was just before school was out in the spring of 2023 when Matthews and Snyder were thinking about starting some type of business, “We just didn’t know what kind of business, but we knew we wanted to earn some money,” Matthews recalled.

   The idea came to the two friends when Alex Snyder’s parents, who lived in rural Geneseo at the time, hired them to do chores, and gave them a choice of doing inside chores or outside chores.

   “We decided to go with outside chores, and they told us we would be pressure washing the side of the house,” he said.  ‘While we were doing that job, I talked to Alex about how my Dad had a large pressure washer and maybe we could use it and earn some money by doing pressure washing on other people’s houses.”

   Even though they had the idea for their business, the young men weren’t quite sure how to go about selling their idea to prospective customers.

   Snyder’s siblings did door-to-door sales and the two friends contacted them to find out more about how to sell their idea.

   Their next step was asking James’ Dad if they could borrow his pressure washer, which he agreed to loan them.

   It was the last week of school in 2023 when the two young businessmen learned that James’ Dad had found a client who would hire them to pressure wash their house…” It was our first job and it was in May of 2023,” Matthews recalled.

   It was their first job and he said, “It was a big house and we ran into some problems, so it definitely was a learning experience.”

   But they had no additional jobs lined up.

   They contacted Alex’s older brother to ask how they could go door to door with their business, and Matthews said, “He gave us a baseline pitch so we practiced that for about three days and then we had the courage to begin.  We knocked on our first door, it was in rural Geneseo, and they hired us.”

   That first employment boosted their courage and confidence and they were able to capture two more jobs that would take care of their schedule for the following two weeks.

   “Our business just kept growing,” Matthews said, and mostly as a result of door-knocking.  “We worked all summer, either knocking on doors or doing the pressure washing work.”

   Both Matthews and Snyder have played soccer at GHS, so they don’t usually schedule jobs during the school year, “but sometimes in the spring we will do pressure washing during the last few months of school, from late March to when school is out in May,” he added.

   In thinking back to the their second summer as business owners, Matthews said there were many problems…”We had lots of trouble with equipment and trouble hiring employees.”

   Waterwerks now employs primarily high school and college students…”We knew at the time we started that we could not hire adults because we didn’t think they would respect 15 year-olds as we did not have a business license or driver’s licenses when we started our business.   Now we have both, but before Alex’s Mom drove us everywhere.”

   This summer, 2025 and their third summer in business, the young entrepreneurs have grown their business to include a line of trucks, used for the business only; and they employ 32 people, high school and college-age (11 sales people and 21 technicians).

   “We are pretty busy almost every day,” Matthews said. 

   When asked what was the biggest hurdle they had to overcome in starting Waterwerks, Matthews said, “In the beginning, our equipment kept breaking down.  We have had to upgrade our equipment and have had to put all the money we had earned for ourselves back into the business to obtain better equipment.  Currently, our profit margins are zero, all the money is dumped right back into the business to cover expenses.  Insurance is a big expense and maintenance is too, so as of now we can’t take any salaries for ourselves.”

   Their hope is that in just a few weeks they will have everything running smoothly and steadily and “maybe we can begin to take some income for ourselves,” Matthews said.

   He is the son of James Matthews and Jamie Matthews, and Snyder’s parents are Marjorie and Mike Snyder

 

A Conversation with the 2024 Geneseo Music Festival Queen - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Addison Dykstra was crowned queen of the 2024 Geneseo Music Festival Queen Pageant sponsored by Geneseo Rotary held on June 14, 2024, in Geneseo City Park.  She received a $500 scholarship from Rotary to use to continue her education, and she has completed her first year the University of Tennessee in Knoxville where she is majoring in News Broadcast and minoring in Political Science.  She is the daughter of Curt and Sara Dykstra.

Addison Dykstra is the 2024 reigning Geneseo Music Festival Queen and she will present the crown to the 2025 Music Festival Queen at the upcoming pageant on Friday, June 13, in Geneseo City Park.  Photo by Claudia Loucks

   Her title as the current Music Festival Queen will end as the 2025 Queen will be crowned at a program on Friday, June 13, in City Park.  But Dykstra’s memories of her experiences will last a lifetime.

   Miss Dykstra reigned over Music Fest activities during Father’s Day weekend last June, including the parade on Father’s Day, June 16, and she did an excellent job at appearing at events throughout the Father’s Day weekend in Geneseo.

   “The court and I made sure to make appearances at al of the events throughout the weekend,” she said.  “We visited the Farmers Market and all of the vendors at the craft show.  We also listened to various performances and we participated in the Jazzercise event and cheer clinic.”

   Attending the Father’s Day Fly-In Breakfast at the Gen-Air Park Airport was a highlight of the weekend, she said, and added, “There was a great turnout from the community and I think it is such a unique and fun way to celebrate the men in our lives.  Overall, the weekend was so much fun.  I had a great time experiencing it all with my court!”

   In reminiscing about last year, Miss Dykstra shared that she “loved being involved with the community over the weekend!  I had great conversations with several people throughout the course of the weekend, and I really enjoyed the time I spent with my court.

   Geneseo is a supportive tight-knit community, and the Music Festival weekend really showcases that.”

    Last year also was a special year with the addition of the Little Miss Music Festival Pageant and Miss Dykstra said one of her favorite memories from the weekend was buying matching bracelets with the Little Miss court from one of the show vendors.

   “Little Miss Shea Robertson and I purchased matching coral beaded bracelets,” she added.

   When asked about the excitement on the night she was crowned “2024 Geneseo Music Festival Queen,” she answered, “Pageant night always comes with a lot of nerves and excitement.  Every girl that participated in the pageant was deserving of the crown, but I was very grateful to have been chosen as the Music Festival Queen.  With that also came a lot of excitement to represent Geneseo and music, which I hold very close to me.”

   For the evening gown competition of the pageant, she chose to wear the dress she had worn to her senior prom at GHS…”It is a royal blue shoulder Sherri Hill gown,” she said.  “There is flower detailed embroidery throughout the top along with floral appliques along the shoulder and waist.  I wanted to wear something different and fun for senior prom, and I fell in love with that dress, so I was excited to get another wear out of it at the pageant!”

   Miss Dykstra had watched the Music Festival Queen Pageant in previous years and added, “I remember as a Little Miss Henry County Fair contestant in 2011, walking across the stage and getting to introduce myself before the Music Festival Pageant.  It was so fun to see all of the older girls participating.”

   And when asked why she entered the Queen Pageant, Addison said, “I have always enjoyed Music Festival weekend!  Music is a major component of my life, and I am so grateful to be in a community that celebrates it.  I thought the pageant would be a great way to get involved with the weekend and community, along with an opportunity to earn money for college.  I was excited to spend extra time with my peers as well!”
   Another question of Miss Dykstra was to share something she might say to senior girls in high school who might consider being in the Music Festival Pageant, and she replied, “I believe that pageants are a great opportunity to develop interview skills, public speaking, and presentation!  These are all skills that you will carry on and need throughout your life.  In addition, this pageant is a great way to get involved within the community and spend time with peers before heading off to college while also earning a scholarship.  College forces you to step out of your comfort zone, and I believe that this pageant is a great opportunity to do so while also having fun with your friends!”

   She added that she was “appreciative of the scholarship as being an out-of-state student is expensive.  I also received the local Rotary Scholarship during Scholarship Night at the high school.  I am very grateful for the Rotary and all of their contributions to my college education!  I used all of my scholarships toward my tuition!”

   Miss Dykstra will be graduating early from the University of Tennessee and she plans to attend law school after completing undergraduate studies.

   “I rushed and joined the Sigma Kappa Sorority,” she said.  ‘Our philanthropy is the Alzheimer’s Association, and this past semester, we were able to raise over $30,000 towards our cause!  I am also involved in Vol News, which is a student-run news organization on campus.  Within this program, I helped cover events, run cameras, and anchor for our social media page.  I also sang in the University Choir during first semester.”

   “I absolutely love the University of Tennessee,” she added.  “I had a blast over this past year and have met so many new people.  I was scared to go out of my comfort zone and move 10 hours from home; however, Tennessee has been such an amazing experience.  Who knew that I would have best friends living in New Jersey and Nashville!  There nothing I love more than wearing orange and cheering on the Volunteers in everything!”

 

Lunch Box Program for Area Youth Underway in Geneseo

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   Linda Flatt is director of the “Lunch Box” summer food program for children in Geneseo.  A nutritious sack lunch is served to young people from ages four to 18 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.  The program began June 2 and will conclude on Friday, Aug. 8, at the Geneseo Community Center, 541 East North St.  Entrance to the lunch site should be made through the door on the west side of the building.  “There is no need for kids to sign up in advance, we just want them to show up,” Linda Flatt said.  In an effort to eliminate “food shaming,” all young people in the community are welcome.  The program is funded with local grant money.  For questions call 309-945-3600.    Photo by Claudia Loucks

 

Too Much Horsepower and Low I.Q.

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

2025 Maple City Band

  It looks like another great season of music provided by Band Conductor, Alan Kiser, and the Geneseo Maple City Band.  I believe they have close to 90 musicians in the band.  That is awesome!
The following is a list of band performances and Ice Cream Socials. The ice cream socials start at 6 p.m. with the band performances beginning at 7 p.m. All band performances are held in the band shell at the Geneseo Park.

JUNE 10: Band: Maple City Band   Social: Geneseo Izaak Walton League.

JUNE 17: Band: Maple City Band   Social: Geneseo Quilt Guild

JUNE 24:  Band: Geneseo Middle School Band  Social: Performing Arts Council.

JULY 1:  Band: Maple City German Band  Social: Social: Impact

JULY 8: Band: Miracle Bluegrass  Social: Geneseo Humane Society

JULY 15: Band: Maple City Band  Social: Henry County Auxiliary

JULY 22:  Band: German Big Band   Social: Boy Scout Troup 100

JULY 29: Band: Big River Brass Band  Social: Girl Scout Unit 886

Of course, don’t forget the big “Fourth of July” celebration in the park.  Great food prepared by those nice guys of the Geneseo “Pork ‘n the Park” Kiwanis. The Maple City Band will perform at 1 p.m.   

      

Bluebird yes, bluebird no!

   Geez, it’s almost every week we get a new species of bird at our feeders. The latest was last week when a “blue” bird paid us a visit. No, not the traditional “bluebird.” No, this bird was completely blue in color. It was beautiful, for sure. We looked in one of our bird books and it had all the signs our brief visitor was an indigo bunting. We haven’t seen it since. 
Some other observations we’ve noticed from bird watching are as follows: A red-breasted woodpecker always raddles and pounds on the rain gutter before he jumps on the suet cage. I think it’s some kind of warning. As I mentioned last week, Baltimore orioles are not the only fathered friends that enjoy grape jelly. Catbirds, cedar waxwings, house sparrows, and grossbeaks once in while like a shot of grape jelly.
We get all the local species of woodpeckers except the pileated woodpecker. Ah, but we know he’s out there in the woods somewhere. We can hold up our iphones and it can identify various bird sounds. All of the woodpeckers, especially the harry and downy, take over the suet cakes many times. The nuthatches come in a close second.  Something I notice when it starts to get dark. The cardinals and the orioles dominate the feeders as the other birds seem to roost earlier. Less competition, I suspect. We quit putting out oranges for the orioles as they much prefer their grape jelly.

 Quips

1)    The cause of most traffic accidents is too much horsepower and low I.Q.
2)    There are only two kinds of liars in car accidents: Both drivers!
3)    Two heads are better than one “except” in a head-on collision.
4)     If your car brakes fail, try to run into something cheap!
5)    Since most accidents happen at home and in traffic, the surest was to be safe is to leave home and sell your car.

 

Cape Cod

  My mother and step-father lived many years on the ‘Cape. Most of the time Lorna, myself and the kids packed up the old buggy and drove there (1,200 miles).
As the years went on, we flew to Boston and took a “puddle jumper” to the Cape. We had a lot of fun times and met some really nice folks.
Well, our daughter and husband asked if we would like to go with them to the Cape.  As for us, a trip whale watching is a must.  We always found it fascinating to see these giant mammals.
One time a whale came right along side the boat and turned on its side showing its huge eye. There are two long time friends we must see. Got to have a Lobster roll, maybe two…maybe three!! They are both retired teachers and even though they are both near the 90 mark, they are really sharp. In short, if you ever get the chance, visit Cape Cod.

Humor

  If money doesn’t grow on trees, then why do banks have branches?

Quote

 “The wise course is to profit from the mistakes of others.    - Terence

Henry County Reports First Mosquito Pool To Test Positive For West Nile Virus for 2025

RaeAnn Tucker
Director of Health Promotion
Henry County Health Department

The Henry County Health Department is reporting that their first mosquito pool of the year to test positive for West Nile virus (WNV) was a specimen batch collected and tested on May 27.

“The news of the first batch of mosquitos carrying West Nile virus is a reminder for local residents to begin protecting themselves from diseases caused by mosquito and tick bites,” note Department Officials. “The best defense against West Nile virus is to practice the ‘Three R’s’: reduce, repel, and report’. IDPH urges everyone, and especially those who are older or have weakened immune systems, to ‘Fight the Bite’ and protect themselves and their families from mosquitoes and the viruses they carry.”

Last year in Illinois, IDPH reported that 72 counties around the state reported positive tests for WNV in mosquitos, birds, horses or humans. There were 69 confirmed human cases of WNV according to IDPH data and 13 human deaths, the highest number since 17 deaths were recorded in 2018. 

IDPH and Local Health Departments maintain a robust surveillance system to monitor WNV both in the environment, with laboratory testing of mosquito batches and sick horses, and among Illinois residents by investigating and monitoring human infections. Follow this link for Henry & Stark County surveillance numbers https://www.henrystarkhealth.com/302/Vector-Surveillance

West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of a Culex mosquito, commonly called a house mosquito, that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird.  Common symptoms include fever, nausea, headache and muscle aches. Symptoms may last from a few days to a few weeks.  Most people infected with West Nile virus will not show any symptoms; however, in rare cases, severe illness including meningitis, encephalitis, or even death, can occur.  People older than 60 and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe illness from West Nile virus.

IDPH urges the public to Fight the Bite by practicing the three “R’s” – reduce, repel, and report:

  • REDUCE - make sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens.  Repair or replace screens that have tears or other openings.  Try to keep doors and windows shut.
    Eliminate, or refresh each week, all sources of standing water where mosquitoes can breed, including water in bird baths, ponds, flowerpots, wading pools, old tires, and any other containers.

  • REPEL - when outdoors, wear shoes and socks, long pants and a light-colored, long-sleeved shirt, and apply an EPA-registered insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, IR 3535, para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone according to label instructions.  Consult a physician before using repellents on infants.

  • REPORT – report locations where you see water sitting stagnant for more than a week such as roadside ditches, flooded yards, and similar locations that may produce mosquitoes.  The local health department or city government may be able to add larvicide to the water, which will kill any mosquito larvae.