A Trip to the Outhouse - By Dan Dauw

Steve Kastorff

Have you ever heard of the “CCC?” Well, Teacher and Historian, Steve Kastorff, gave an excellent presentation on the “Civilian Conservation Corps in Henry County.” He gave his program on July 15th at the Henry County Historical Museum, Bishop Hill, IL. He has spoken to many groups and has authored several books on various topics. If you ever get the chance to attend one of his lectures, do so!

Speaking of the H.C. Historical Museum

Lorna and I have been doing a lot of hosting at this museum. It’s fun and we get to meet many interesting folks. For example, one nice family who visit the museum a few weeks ago were Kyle and Michelle Ganson of Geneseo. In the main aisle of the museum are various antiques, one of which sits an old Steinway piano. Son, Aaron Ganson, asked if he could play that piano? Of course, we said. Wow! Could that young fellow pound those keys. Yes, the piano needs tuning, but gosh, he made that old Steinway come alive. Other members of the family were Rachel, Ryan, Mathew and Amy (I hope I spelled their names correctly). A lot of people visit the Swedish colony in Bishop Hill. The town now has 4 restaurants and they all serve great food. Bishop Hill is located a few miles south of Cambridge and is well worth visiting its shops, museums, etc.

Great Season, MCB

Thank all of you who attended this summer’s Maple City Band concerts. The attendance was really good! Maestro Alan Kiser and his band of awesome musicians did an outstanding job. If the good Lord a willing and the creek don’t rise, all of us should enjoy next year’s concerts, as well! In fact, the Maestro is already working on new music and a few oldies for next season. A big “Thank you,” Maple City Band, for another great season. Of course, a another “Thank You” to all of you that went to our concerts. This season we had record attendance and “that” we love!

Constipation

Yes, maybe not the greatest subject to read about, butt, I mean “but,” it effects most of us at one time or other. I read a recent article about the problem in Consumer Reports On Health. No, I was not reading the magazine while on the throne! To be serious, changes in our diet, or activities can throw off our normal body rhythms. Here are some things that may help getting regular. Stay hydrated. Eat fiber-rich fruits, veggies, and whole grains. Also, if nature is telling you it’s time for a trip to the outhouse, don’t put it off and head for the one or two hole’r.

Woodpeckers

I always thought that woodpeckers had sharp, pointed beaks to get at tasty little critters, and to build a home. Nope, wrong Dan D. Their beaks are shaped like a chisel which is perfect for chipping away at wood. Woodpeckers raise their young in holes they hammer in trees. They look for soft wood that is already dead or rotting.

Humor

Bob Mays bought a new TV, but it was stuck on high volume. Still, it was cheap so he just “couldn’t turn it down.”

Fishing Humor

When Library Director, Claire Crawford, goes fishing, her bait of choice are bookworms. Dale Tanis is a well-groomed fisherman so when he needs a haircut he goes to a bobber shop.

Concert Reminder

Hopefully I get this notice to you in time. The Geneseo Big Band will be performing in the Geneseo bandshell at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, August 8th. The Inspire Continuing Care will be providing the ice cream social.