Central Bank Illinois Hosts Annual Customer Appreciation Day

Central Bank Illinois recently celebrated its second annual Customer Appreciation Day by welcoming customers across its 10-branch network and serving lunch to approximately  1,500 customers as a gesture of gratitude for their continued trust and support. 

Customers visited the Central Bank Pavilion and the Financial Center in Geneseo and  branches in Fulton, Princeton, Peru, Sterling, Rochelle, Ashton, and Oregon to enjoy a  complimentary lunch, bank giveaways, and raffle prizes. The event provided an opportunity  for customers to connect with branch staff and celebrate the relationships that are at the  heart of community banking. 

"Customer Appreciation Day is our way of saying thank you to the individuals, families,  businesses, and communities that choose Central Bank Illinois as their financial partner,"  said President and CEO, John DuBois. "We are incredibly grateful for the relationships we  have built over the years and for the opportunity to serve our customers every day." 

The event reflects Central Bank Illinois' ongoing commitment to community banking and  building meaningful relationships with the customers and communities it serves. Central  Bank Illinois looks forward to continuing the tradition of Customer Appreciation Day and  strengthening the relationships that make community banking unique.  

To learn more about Central Bank, www.central-bank.com.  

About Central Bank Illinois 

Central Bank Illinois is a locally focused community bank serving individuals, families, farmers, and  businesses through a network of 10 branches. Committed to providing personalized financial  solutions and exceptional customer service, Central Bank Illinois proudly supports the  communities it serves through local decision-making, community involvement, and relationship based banking. 

Vorac Pharmacy Purchases Neighboring Downtown Building, Plans Expansion

By Sarah DeMaranville

Vorac Pharmacy has purchased the building immediately south of its longtime downtown Geneseo location, a move owner Nathan Vorac says will allow the independent pharmacy to continue growing while remaining committed to State Street for years to come.

The pharmacy, which currently operates at 114 S. State St., has acquired the neighboring property at 110 S. State St. from Springfield Armory. The building was previously owned by GWK Enterprises, home of Four Seasons Direct.

For Vorac, the purchase is more than simply adding square footage—it's part of a long-term vision to expand patient care while ensuring the pharmacy remains rooted in downtown Geneseo.

"As the pharmacy has continued to grow, I knew there was a possibility we would eventually outgrow our current space," Vorac said. "I have never wanted to leave our downtown location, so when the opportunity came to purchase the neighboring building, it made perfect sense."

The project became possible through a partnership with his brother, Jake Vorac, and sister-in-law, Erin Vorac.

"Once my brother Jake and his wife Erin agreed to partner with us, we were off and running," he said. "This investment ensures we'll be able to continue serving our community from downtown Geneseo for years to come."

Planning for the Future

Vorac said the expansion reflects how community pharmacy has evolved over the years.

Nathan Vorac, Owner of Vorac Pharmacy

In addition to filling prescriptions, the pharmacy now provides extensive compliance packaging for patients living independently and those in care facilities, services that require specialized equipment and dedicated workspace.

"We also need additional room for private patient consultations and vaccinations," Vorac said. "Expanding into the neighboring building allows us to better serve patients while improving our workflow."

Current plans call for the pharmacy to occupy the entire first floor of the newly acquired building, while Jake and Erin Vorac plan to renovate the second floor into multiple apartments.

Although plans are still in the early stages, Vorac hopes to relocate the pharmacy's retail area into the new building once renovations are complete.

Renovations Still in Early Stages

Significant work remains before construction begins.

"We are currently engaged with architects and contractors to come up with a plan and budget for the work that needs to be done," Vorac said.

Because planning is still underway, customers should not expect immediate changes.

"We are hoping to begin work in a few months, so nothing immediate," he said. "We still have to work out the plans before we can begin construction."

While no new pharmacy services are planned in the short term, Vorac said the additional space will provide flexibility as healthcare continues to change.

"We don't have any immediate plans to introduce new services, but the additional space gives us the flexibility to grow as our patients' needs continue to change," he said. "It also allows us to improve the way we deliver the services we already provide."

The expansion could also create additional employment opportunities as the business grows.

"The additional space positions us well for future growth," Vorac said. "As our patient base continues to expand, we'll have room to hire additional employees without being limited by our current space."

A Commitment to Downtown

For Vorac, the investment is also a reaffirmation of his commitment to Geneseo's downtown business district.

"We aren't going anywhere," he said. "I knew since high school that I wanted to own this pharmacy in my hometown."

Vorac purchased the business from longtime owner Rich McClimon after working alongside him and learning the profession.

"I was fortunate to work for and learn from Rich McClimon before purchasing the business from him," he said. "I hope to continue that tradition for many years to come."

He said the support the pharmacy has received from the community made investing in downtown an easy decision.

"Geneseo has been incredibly supportive of my family and our business, and this investment reflects our commitment to remaining a part of downtown and serving this community well into the future."

Looking ahead, Vorac said his vision remains centered on maintaining the personal relationships that distinguish independent pharmacies from larger chains.

"I want us to continue growing while providing the personalized service our patients have come to expect," he said. "I believe independent community pharmacies can offer a level of care and personal attention that's difficult to match. Our patients choose us because of those relationships, and my goal is to make sure we continue providing that same level of service for many years to come."

Ultimately, Vorac said the project is about improving the patient experience while contributing to the continued vitality of downtown Geneseo.

"Our goal isn't simply to have a larger building," he said. "It's to create a better experience for our patients and provide our staff with the space they need to continue delivering the level of care our community expects from us. We hope we can contribute to the continued success of the downtown area while allowing us to better serve our patients for many years to come."

Hayshaker's Grill Brings Fresh Breakfast to the Geneseo Farmers Market



While North Street Treats has been a familiar part of the Geneseo Farmers Market for years, this season marks the debut of a new venture for husband-and-wife team Jill and Jarred Gephart: Hayshaker's Grill.

Jarred and Jill Gephart

The Gepharts met while working in the restaurant industry and had long talked about starting a business of their own after retirement.

"We met in the restaurant business & always talked about starting our own business after retirement," they said. "Passion for cooking and serving quality food. I felt there was a gap in the food truck industry that we could fill."

The opportunity to join the Geneseo Farmers Market came after organizer Jill Darin approached the couple about serving breakfast. The Gepharts said they believed it was "the perfect opportunity to introduce Hayshaker's Grill to the Geneseo community."

Each Saturday morning, Hayshaker's Grill prepares fresh breakfast scrambles to order before transitioning to its lunch menu. The business's top-selling item is its unbreaded pork tenderloin sandwich, followed closely by its smashburgers.

When asked what first-time customers should order, the answer was immediate: "The un breaded pork tenderloin sandwich, it is the best in the QC area."

According to the Gepharts, the business is built on quality and consistency.

"The quality of the food and the fact that it's cooked fresh over a charcoal grill set us apart," they said. "Consistency is what brings customers back. We strive to deliver a good, quality product every time."

Although Hayshaker's Grill is new to the market, the Gepharts are well known to many regular shoppers through North Street Treats, their gluten-free dessert business, which has been a longtime Farmers Market vendor. North Street Treats specializes in gluten-free desserts and continues to operate through farmers markets, events and custom orders. The Gepharts noted that, despite some community confusion, North Street Treats is not currently opening a bakery.

Looking ahead, the couple hopes to have Hayshaker's Grill operating from a food trailer by the start of next season, with the long-term goal of opening a brick-and-mortar restaurant within the next five years.

The response from the Geneseo community has been stronger than they anticipated.

"Amazingly overwhelming!!" they said. "The support so far has been beyond expected."

Visitors can find Hayshaker's Grill and North Street Treats each Saturday at the Geneseo Farmers Market in City Park, where the Gepharts continue serving fresh, made-to-order food alongside the gluten-free desserts that have become a longtime market favorite.





Downtown Geneseo Sidewalk Sales Return July 24–25

Downtown Geneseo will transform into an open-air shopping destination July 24–25 as local businesses bring merchandise outdoors for two days of sidewalk sales, special promotions, pop-up vendors and live entertainment.

The annual event, organized by the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce, invites residents and visitors to spend the weekend exploring downtown while taking advantage of seasonal deals and discovering new businesses.

"Businesses around Geneseo are bringing their deals outside," said Chamber Executive Director Lindsie Akers. "Join us July 24 and 25 for sidewalk sales, special deals, pop-ups and more."

Several downtown businesses have already announced promotions for the weekend, including:

  • Pegasus Fine Gifts: Buy two sale items and get two free.

  • Four Seasons: Last Chance Consignment items for $5 each or three for $10.

  • Village Home Stores: Big Lighting Sale.

  • A Spotted Apron: 50% off clearance merchandise and 25% off storewide.

In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy several special attractions throughout downtown. Anthology for Books will have its popular "Once Upon a Trailer" book trailer on site, while Gaslight Grocer & Wine Bar will host pop-up vendors Dragonfly Flower Farms and Leaf Livestock. Live patio music will also be offered at In-A-Godda-Da-Vida.

Additional participating businesses include Katsch Boutique, Village Florist, and Hayshaker's Grill & North Street Treats, along with other downtown merchants offering sidewalk displays and promotions throughout the weekend.

According to Akers, the event is designed to showcase everything that makes downtown Geneseo unique.

"Downtown Geneseo comes alive for a full weekend of sidewalk shopping, summer sales and community fun," she said. "Local businesses set up outside their storefronts with racks, tables and displays overflowing with deals—from clothing and gifts to home goods and seasonal finds."

She encourages shoppers to take their time exploring downtown.

"It is the perfect excuse to discover something new and support the small businesses that make Geneseo special," Akers said. "Grab a friend, bring the family and make a day of it."

The Sidewalk Sales will take place Friday and Saturday, July 24–25, throughout downtown Geneseo.

Find Waldo Local Invites Families to Explore Geneseo Businesses This July

Families looking for a fun summer adventure have a new reason to explore local businesses this July.

Throughout the month, Anthology for Books is bringing Find Waldo Local to Geneseo, a free community-wide scavenger hunt that encourages participants to shop local while searching for everyone's favorite striped traveler.

The game begins at Anthology for Books, where participants can pick up a free Find Waldo Local passport. From there, they'll visit 25 participating businesses throughout Geneseo, each hiding a small Waldo figurine somewhere inside.

When Waldo is found, participants receive a stamp in their passport before heading off to the next location.

The more stamps collected, the bigger the reward.

Participants who collect 10 stamps will earn a prize, while those who collect 20 stamps can be entered into the grand prize drawing to be held during a Waldo celebration on July 31.

Businesses participating in the hunt can be identified by a Find Waldo Local window cling, making it easy for families to know where to search.

The month-long event is designed to encourage families to explore Geneseo, discover local businesses, and enjoy a self-paced activity together throughout July. Whether participants choose to search for a few Waldos each week or try to find them all in a single weekend, the hunt offers a fun way to experience the community while supporting local businesses.

Anthology for Books serves as the event headquarters, where participants can pick up passports, ask questions, and even search for Wizard Whitebeard, another hidden character located inside the bookstore.

Find Waldo Local is an annual, nationwide program created by Candlewick Press and the American Booksellers Association. Independent bookstores apply to participate, and Anthology for Books is proud to be included this year. The booksellers are excited to lead a community-wide collaboration that celebrates local businesses and brings the beloved Where's Waldo? books to life.

How to Participate

Pick up a free Find Waldo Local passport at Anthology for Books.Visit 25 participating Geneseo businesses and search for the hidden Waldo figurine.Collect 10 stamps to earn a prize.Collect 20 stamps to be entered into the July 31 grand prize drawing.Look for the Find Waldo Local window cling displayed at participating businesses.

For families looking to add a little adventure to their summer, Find Waldo Local offers a simple reason to get out, explore Geneseo, and see how many Waldos they can find before the end of July.

For more information, see this Facebook reel.

The Current Plans Senior & Active Living Expo for April 17

The Geneseo Current is preparing to host a Senior & Active Living Expo this spring, bringing together local businesses, organizations, and resources focused on supporting older adults and their families.

Scheduled for April 17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Geneseo Community Center, the event is designed to connect residents with services that promote independence, wellness, and quality of life.

The expo will feature a range of vendors representing healthcare, senior services, housing, financial planning, home support, and community programs. Attendees will have the opportunity to speak directly with local providers, gather information, and explore options available within the Geneseo area and surrounding communities.

In addition to vendor booths, the event will offer a relaxed, walk-through format that allows attendees to engage at their own pace. The expo is intended not only for seniors, but also for caregivers, adult children, and anyone planning for the future.

The event reflects The Current’s broader focus on providing practical, locally relevant information while supporting connections between residents and businesses.

Local businesses and organizations interested in participating as vendors are still able to register. Opportunities include booth space as well as inclusion in a digital guide that will be distributed to attendees and shared online following the event.

Admission to the Senior & Active Living Expo is free and open to the public.

For more information or to inquire about vendor opportunities, contact sarah@geneseocurrent.com.

Chamber Kicks Off 2026 with Networking Event at Central Schoolhouse Inn

Chamber President Jenna Rushing welcomes businesses and speaks about the Chamber’s 2026 priorities. Photo by Sarah DeMaranville

by Sarah DeMaranville

The Geneseo Chamber of Commerce hosted its first networking event of 2026 on Friday, February 27, at Central Schoolhouse Inn, bringing together approximately 40 local businesses for an evening of updates and networking.

Chamber board members were present as President Jenna Rushing of Hanford Insurance shared the Chamber’s direction and priorities for 2026. Rushing summarized upcoming initiatives and focus areas intended to support and strengthen the local business community in the year ahead.

Business owner Katie Katsunis (Pegasus & Four Seasons) shares information on the new gift card roll-out. Photo by Sarah DeMaranville

Katie Katsunis, owner of Four Seasons and Pegasus, introduced the Chamber’s new gift card program. The program replaces traditional check-style gift certificates with an updated system designed to streamline transactions and modernize how Chamber gift cards are issued and redeemed among participating businesses.

The evening provided business owners and community leaders an opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and gain insight into what’s ahead for the Chamber in 2026. The Chamber plans to host quarterly networking meetings throughout the year, with events taking place at various area businesses.

For information on Chamber of Commerce membership and benefits, visit geneseo.org.