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.

 

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

Geneseo Chamber of Commerce Announces 2025 Geneseo Music Festival

Zack Sullivan - Executive Director
zsullivan@geneseo.org

The Geneseo Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the 57th Annual Geneseo Music Festival, which will take place on Father’s Day Weekend, June 13-15, 2025 in Geneseo, IL. The event promises to be a weekend of fun and entertainment for people of all ages, with music performances, food vendors, and a variety of family-friendly activities.

One of the highlights of the festival is the popular Father's Day Music Festival Parade, sponsored by Geneseo Communications, in downtown Geneseo on Sunday June 15 at 1pm. The parade is the perfect opportunity to celebrate with Fathers, Grandfathers, and Uncles with a classic Midwestern summertime festival backdrop. It offers a chance for Geneseo and guests to come together and enjoy the festive spirit.

The Geneseo Music Festival is an event that has something for everyone. Music lovers will appreciate the wide range of musical genres, including rock, country, jazz, and blues. Foodies will enjoy the variety of food vendors, offering mouth-watering dishes for all to enjoy. Festival-goers can also participate in fun-filled activities like carnival games, or unique crafts and gifts from over sixty vendors at the Music Festival Craft Fair, and more.

The Little Miss Music Fest Pageant returns in 2025 after a successful debut last year, which will take place before the annual Geneseo Rotary Music Festival Queen Pageant on Friday evening. Live music can be found throughout Geneseo on Saturday at the Geneseo City Park and at Geneseo Brewing Company. On Sunday morning, the Father’s Day Fly-In Breakfast at Gen-Airpark is a very popular draw.

Zack Sullivan, the event organizer with the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce, shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming 2025 Geneseo Music Festival, stating, "We are absolutely thrilled to bring this longstanding community festival to Geneseo for its 57th year. Our goal is to create a truly fun and memorable experience for every attendee, from families enjoying a day out to music lovers soaking in the performances." Sullivan emphasized the enduring appeal of a beloved local tradition, adding, "The Father's Day Parade is always a crowd favorite, a cornerstone of our community's celebrations. We're incredibly excited to witness the Geneseo community coming together once again for this special occasion, enjoying not only the parade but also the musical acts and activities we have planned throughout the festival weekend."

With Summer 2025 officially underway, it's the perfect time to plan a weekend getaway in Geneseo with family and friends. The festival promises to be an unforgettable experience and a highlight of the summer season for all.

For more information about the Geneseo Music Festival and the Father's Day Parade, please visit our website at www.geneseo.org, or call the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce at 309-944-2686

 

2025 Geneseo Music Fest Schedule
Friday June 13
● 5:00 pm: 2025 Geneseo Music Fest begins and Food Trucks open
● 5:00 pm: Kiwanis Annual Doo Dah Parade – Downtown Geneseo
● 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm: Geneseo Rotary Ice Cream Social – Geneseo City Park
● 5:30 pm: 2025 Little Miss Geneseo Music Festival Pageant – City Park Bandshell
● 7:00 pm: 2025 Geneseo Music Fest Queen Pageant presented by Geneseo Rotary – City Park Bandshell
Saturday June 14 CITY PARK BANDSHELL SCHEDULE
*(All acts take place at the Geneseo City Park Bandshell)
● 7:00-10:00 am: Maple City 4 Run presented by Geneseo Rotary Club
● 10:00 -11:00 am: Jazzercise Strength 45 in the Park by Jazzercise
● 11:30-2:00 pm: Musical Memories Recital
o 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm: Geneseo Panic!
● 2:00-3:00pm: GHS Cheer Clinic
● 3:00-4:00 pm: LIVE MUSIC - Paxton Sherbyn & The Solid Gold Boys
● 5:30-7:30 pm: LIVE MUSIC - Smooth Groove
Saturday June 14
● 8:00 am – 3:00 pm: Geneseo Farmer’s Market – North City Park
● 8:00 am – 6:00 pm: AETA Tractor Display – North City Park
● 9:00 am – 3:00 pm: Family Fest (inflatables & more) presented by Geneseo Park District
– Geneseo City Park
● 9:00 am – 6:00 pm: Geneseo Music Fest Art & Craft Fair – Geneseo City Park
● 10:00 am – 1:00 pm: Pony Rides by Tri-Co Equestrian Center, LLC - Geneseo City Park
near the intersection of State & North Streets
● 11:00 am – 3:00 pm: LIVE MUSIC - Party on the Patio - In-A-Godda-Da-Vida Music
● 11:00 am – 1:00 pm: FFA Ag Alumni Lunch Cookout – Geneseo City Park
● 12:30 pm: Dean Olson Memorial Pedal Pull – Geneseo City Park
o Trophies Sponsored by: Clements Farm
● 2:30 pm – Geneseo 4Baggers Bags Tournament for Youth – Geneseo City Park
● 4:30 pm – Geneseo 4Baggers Bags Tournament for Adults – Geneseo City Park
● 4:30 pm – 7:00 pm: LIVE MUSIC – Shaun Easton – Geneseo Brewing Co.
● 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm: Ice Cream Social - Geneseo Art League – Geneseo City Park

●7:00 pm–10:00 pm: LIVE MUSIC–Monica Austin–Geneseo Brewing Co.
●8:00 pm: Outdoor Movie Series & LIVE MUSIC–“TBD”-presented by the Geneseo Park District Foundation-Geneseo Park District Athletic Field
Sunday June 15
●7:00 am–11:00 am: Father’s Day Fly-In Breakfast–Gen-Airpark
●10:00 am–4:00 pm: Geneseo Music Fest Art & Craft Fair–Geneseo City Park
●10:30 am: Sunday Morning Church Service–First Methodist Church-Geneseo City Park Bandshell
●11:00 am–1:00 pm: Father’s Day Parade Staging–Geneseo High School Parking Lot
●1:00 pm: 2025 Geneseo Music Fest Father’s Day Parade–State Street/Downtown Geneseo - Parade Sponsored by: Geneseo Communications
●2:00 pm: LIVE MUSIC–Ryan Bizarri and Friends–Geneseo City Park Bandshell
●4:00 pm: 2025 Geneseo Music Fest Conclude

Memorial Day in Geneseo

By Cynthia Borkgren Abraham

Good morning, Geneseo! I am honored and humbled to be invited to speak to you during this Memorial Day remembrance. I stood on this same stage over 50 years ago, reciting the Gettysburg Address, a smaller version of me with no wrinkles, but no less moved by the gravity of the day. It is fitting and right that we honor all the men and women who have sacrificed so much, recognizing that our liberties as Americans come at a price.

I believe the leaders who instated this holiday back in 1868 as Decoration Day, what we now call Memorial Day, were true visionaries, who knew what they were doing when they designated May as our time to honor the fallen. With spring reflecting a time of rebirth after a long winter, those leaders must have imagined the budding trees and flowers, millions spread across the land, representing those lost in battles here and on almost every continent around the globe. They must have envisioned loved ones sitting with their children, using the opportunity to tell the stories of the past and encouraging them to pass these stories on to the generations to come.

Today we gather at cemeteries, monuments, and parks all over the country. We march in parades in cities from Hawaii to the Carolinas, North Dakota to Texas. We celebrate their memory and honor the loyalty and bravery of our fallen in this noble calling of military service. While this day is typically spent recalling the valor of those who died in combat, we must never forget the ones who answered the call to serve in peacetime as well. The history of our Nation and those who serve is summarized in a simple phrase...they are ordinary people who by virtue of their service and sacrifice are extraordinary.

Sadly, some forget the losses suffered by those in uniform. People brush over these sacrifices of life and limb, dismissing the reality. Winston Churchill referenced this issue when he said, “Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few."  The majority of the population does not understand that less than ½ of one percent of all Americans go to defend us so the enemy does not invade our land. And guess what? Sometimes they die.

On Memorial Day, tradition dictates that our flag is raised briskly to the top of the staff and then solemnly lowered to the position of half-staff, where it remains until noon. The flag is then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day. The half-staff position remembers the more than one million Service members who gave their lives in service to our Nation. At noon, their memory is raised by the living who resolve not to let their sacrifices be in vain, but to rise in their stead and continue the fight for liberty.

Across this great nation, wives and mothers, husbands and fathers, extended family and friends honor the memories of their loved ones each day. They display pictures and mementos of a life not fully lived. They carry on, understanding that their Soldier, Sailor, Airman, or Marine chose this life of service and understood the potentiality of their death as a sacrifice for the sake of freedom. These families and friends, left behind, carry on their message, raising their memory like an unfurled flag. Today we also honor these families of those lost.  You are the ones who bear a burden that only you can comprehend. We are grateful for the support you gave your Service member so they could carry out the mission of protecting the rest of us.

We bear the responsibility as citizens to remember the Nation's brave fallen men and women, whether they died on foreign lands in the heat of battle or after a lifetime in the uniform of our military. Never forget our Service members who knew all too well the cost of our freedom, for their sacrifice to this country is the greatest gift of all.

So, as you enjoy the rest of your day with picnics, barbecues or family gatherings, acknowledge the true meaning of Memorial Day—the debt we owe to those who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our country. It is not just the traditional start of the summer vacation season.

Again, thank you for inviting me back home to participate in this ceremony. As a Veteran, I am duty-bound to honor my comrades, both those who sacrificed before me and those who will do so in the future. I ask God to bless those still deployed, who stand in harm's way, protecting our way of life. May God bless our leaders who are serving during these challenging times, where conflict and instability spread across the globe.  And finally, may God bless this Great Nation we call home.

 

Katie Sowder to Offer Family Practice at Hammond-Henry’s Colona Clinic

Katie Sowder, APRN. Submitted Photo

Colona, IL - Katie Sowder, APRN, will be returning to serve Hammond-Henry Hospital’s Colona Clinic as a family nurse practitioner on June 30. She will be joined by a newly signed Hammond-Henry Hospital family practice physician, Dr. David Cook, in the fall. Both providers will be accepting new patients. An open house in Sowder’s honor is scheduled at the Colona Clinic, located at 1604 Cleveland Road, Colona, on June 11 from 4 to 6 pm. All interested are invited and encouraged to attend.

Sowder is currently serving Hammond-Henry Hospital’s Port Byron clinic, which will close on June 27.

“It has been my absolute pleasure caring for the Port Byron community. I have them to thank for making our office so successful,” said Sowder. “The move to Colona signifies growth that we could no longer accommodate in our Port Byron location. I'm excited to join the Colona office and expand on what we can offer our patients. It's an exciting move, and although I will miss our river view, I hope our patients join us on this journey!”

According to Colton Anderson, Hammond-Henry Hospital’s Clinics and Physician Recruitment Director, there were many factors that went into this decision to close the Port Byron facility, but the main reason was to eliminate consistent barriers to growth.

“Most prominently, we continue to experience limitations in finding an appropriately-sized space to serve our patients from inside Port Byron,” Anderson explained. “Our clinic in Colona immediately offers a more accessible atmosphere for Katie and her team to serve its community members. This move will also give Colona Clinic and Katie significant growth potential, overall improved depth in staffing, and improved resources and amenities.”

Furthering the need to make this change, Dr. Maxhn McCaw of Orion announced his plans to retire this summer, leaving that community without a provider. “With Katie serving Colona, she will provide an accessible option for Port Byron, Colona, and Orion residents by being in this centralized location. It’s never easy making a decision like this, but doing the best for our patients’ health and well-being is always our primary goal. I think this move will accomplish that goal.”

The Colona Clinic is currently open for walk-in hours Monday through Friday from 7 am to 7 pm and on Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm. Family practice hours in Colona will be announced at a later date.

Sowder’s medical specialties include family medicine, walk-in care, and sleep medicine. She has worked as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse within Hammond-Henry Hospital since November of 2012 and the Port Byron Clinic since November of 2020. She received her Master of Science in Nursing from Loyola University, Chicago.

For more information or to make an appointment, call 309.949.2999.

Dr. Allison David Joins Chiropractic Team at Hammond-Henry Hospital

Dr. Allison David

Geneseo, IL - The Board of Directors and Administration are pleased to announce that Allison David, DC, ATC, CCSP® will be accepting patients in Hammond-Henry Hospital’s Chiropractic Clinic, beginning May 27. Her office will be within the Geneseo Clinic, located on the first floor of the hospital. Those interested in scheduling appointments may do so by calling the Geneseo Medical Group at 309.944.1275. She will also accept walk-ins. No referrals are needed.

“We are exceptionally proud to have Dr. Allison David expand our current chiropractic team,” said Wyatt Brieser, Hammond-Henry Hospital Vice President of Operations. “She’s worked closely with Riverdale, Prophetstown, and Geneseo High Schools’ sports programs as a certified Athletic Trainer in the past, so many people around this area already know her skill and vast knowledge of chiropractic techniques.

“We’re also grateful to have another doctor join our practice to even better fulfill the chiropractic needs of our community,” Brieser continued. Dr. David joins Dr. Owen McConnell, who began accepting patients in the HHH Chiropractic Clinic last December. In addition to chiropractic and athletic trainer services, Dr. David, who is also a Certified Dry Needling Physician, will conduct a dry needling clinic.

Dry needling is the insertion of a fine, filiform needle into a muscle or connective tissue to stimulate a neurophysiological response. This is designed to improve healing in the presence of a neuromusculoskeletal issue or movement dysfunction.

Since serving as a certified Athletic Trainer, Dr. David has obtained the postgraduate designation of Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician® (CCSP®) by the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians™ (ACBSP™). This instruction is specific to physical fitness and the evaluation and treatment of injuries encountered in sports. Dr. David sees all patients of all ages, from birth to geriatric - including pregnant women, and has attained many trainings and certifications in dry needling, cupping, soft-tissue work, and sports and injury rehabilitation.

“Typically, within a few visits, patients see positive results including reduced chronic pain, improved muscle tension, and range of motion,” said Dr. David. “Dry needling and other chiropractic techniques can be used for both acute and chronic injuries: muscle tightness, muscle strains, ligament sprains, joint pain, movement dysfunctions, chronic pain, chronic and acute sports injuries, trigger points, myofascial pain, and painful scars.”

Dr. David hails from Potosi, WI but currently resides in Hampton with her husband, Tyler. She is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Athletic Training. She then attended Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, IA, where she graduated this past October as valedictorian, attained Summa Cum Laude honors, and was also nominated for the school’s Clinical Excellence Award. She was one of less than 10 of the 90 graduates to be nominated for this honor.

Similarly to Dr. McConnell, she has a vast sports injury background and knowledge of diagnosis, treatment, and rehab exercises to enhance her patients’ recovery.

“As a Chiropractic Physician and Certified Athletic Trainer, my philosophy is simple: everyone is an athlete in their own right. Whether you’re a high school athlete pushing your body to its limits or a busy parent trying to keep up with the demands of daily life, movement and health are essential to everyone’s well-being. My mission is to empower individuals from all walks of life to prioritize their movement, optimize their physical health, and lead a vibrant, active lifestyle,” said Dr. David.

“With years of experience working with athletes across a range of levels - from middle school sports teams to Division 1 college athletes, and even those aspiring for professional careers - I’ve come to realize that the principles of sports medicine and rehabilitation apply to all individuals, not just those competing at the highest level,” she continued. “The human body was designed to move, and I believe that with the right tools, guidance, and mindset, every person can achieve better mobility, reduced pain, and improved overall health.”

A public open house will be held in Dr. David’s honor on June 24 from 2 to 4 pm in the first floor Dining Room at Hammond-Henry Hospital, 600 N. College Avenue, Geneseo. All interested are welcome and encouraged to attend. Light refreshments will be served, and there will be small give-aways to all attendees.

Mother's Day and it's Pop Culture Roots

Geneseo Current

Mother’s Day, as celebrated in the United States, traces its roots to the early 20th century. Though the concept of honoring mothers dates back to ancient civilizations, the American version of the holiday was largely shaped by the efforts of Anna Jarvis. Following her mother’s death in 1905, Jarvis sought to create a day of recognition for the sacrifices mothers make for their children. Her campaign gained national attention, and in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially designated the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day.

The original intent of Mother’s Day was deeply personal and sentimental. Jarvis envisioned a quiet, reflective holiday focused on expressing love and gratitude toward one’s mother, often symbolized by white carnations—her mother’s favorite flower. Ironically, as the holiday gained popularity, it became increasingly commercialized, with businesses capitalizing on the tradition by promoting cards, flowers, and gifts. This commercialization eventually frustrated Jarvis, who spent her later years denouncing what she saw as a distortion of her original vision.

Despite the shift in tone, Mother’s Day remains a widely celebrated holiday in the United States. Modern celebrations vary greatly, but typically include giving gifts, preparing meals, or spending quality time with mothers and maternal figures. Florists report some of their highest sales during this time, and restaurants often experience a surge in reservations for Mother’s Day brunches and dinners.

In addition to traditional celebrations, many schools and community organizations host special events in the lead-up to Mother’s Day. Children often create handmade cards or crafts, while churches and community centers may hold services or gatherings to honor mothers. Social media has also played a role in how people now observe the day, with tributes, photographs, and messages flooding platforms like Instagram and Facebook.

Mother’s Day in the U.S. has evolved from a humble movement of personal appreciation to a major national celebration. While its commercial aspects are now entrenched in popular culture, the underlying message of honoring and appreciating mothers endures. Whether through heartfelt notes, family meals, or acts of service, the day remains an important occasion for expressing love and gratitude toward those who nurture and care for others.

Winners in RutabagA’s Third Fine Art Exhibit

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Karen Vroman, Erie, received Honorable Mention for her “Chickens in the Cornfield” entry in RutabagA’s Second Fine Art Exhibit held May 4 at The Cellar, Geneseo.   Entries in the exhibit are on display through May 28 at RutabagA Art Gallery & Studio at 108 North State St., downtown Geneseo.  The Gallery is open from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

Additional entries also are on display at The Cellar Restaurant in downtown Geneseo during their regular hours which are Wednesday through Sunday.  There were 97 entries in this year’s competition.  Tom Hempel, art instructor at Black Hawk College in Moline, judged the entries.

   Sunny Roberts, Seaton, captured Honorable Mention II for her entry, “Milky Way at Midnight.”

   Jackson Parchert, Rock Island, left; was awarded Youth Honorable Mention I for his entry, “The Blessing of Davion,” in the Fine Art Exhibit; and Joyce Mattan, Geneseo, also received Honorable Mention 1 for her entry, “Moon Over the Barn.”

Marinn Cisna, at right; Galva, received Best of Show with her entry titled “Bringing Her Home;” Lexi Gordon, Geneseo, won third place which is the Dick Carlson Memorial Award, for her entry, “Still Life;” and Aryanna Stahr, Andalusia, was awarded Youth Excellence II, for “Made in U.S.A.” 

Other winners in RutabagA’s Fine Arts Exhibit are, Tessa Wilebski, left, Geneseo, second place – Shirley Burnett Memorial Award for “A Neighboring Castle;” and Serina Nimrick, Geneseo, Youth Excellence I for her entry of “Spring Blooms.”

   Other winners in the competition, but who were not available for photos, include Kathy Williams, Waterloo, Iowa; for her photograph entry, “Daddy /Daughter Dance-Age 4;” Mike Lawrence, Rock Island, 3-Dimensional, “Box of Antiquities,” (wood); and Rick Lodmell, Wilton, Iowa, Honorable Mention III, for his entry titled, “Stark.”

 

The History of May Day in America and Its Decline Among Children

May Day has become a lesser known holiday.  But May Day has a long and complex history in the United States, even though it's no longer widely observed, especially by children. Originally, May Day was a spring festival in Europe, filled with flower gathering, dancing around the maypole, and general merrymaking. When European settlers came to America, they brought some of these traditions with them, and for a time, May Day was a lighthearted celebration of nature and the changing seasons, often involving children in simple rituals like making flower crowns or delivering “May baskets” filled with blossoms and treats to neighbors.

However, the meaning of May Day in America shifted dramatically in the late 19th century.  May 1st became associated with labor activism and workers' rights. While many countries adopted May Day as International Workers’ Day, the U.S. government distanced itself from the date due to its radical associations. Instead, Labor Day was established in September to recognize American workers without aligning with socialist or anarchist movements.

This split in meaning affected how May Day was celebrated in the United States. The holiday remained significant for labor unions and political groups but lost popularity in mainstream culture. The more whimsical, spring-centered version of May Day, once celebrated in schools and neighborhoods, slowly faded. During the early to mid-20th century, some American schools still observed May Day with dances, plays, and floral decorations, but over time, these activities were replaced by more secular or standardized events, especially as the U.S. focused more on Memorial Day and the end of the school year.

Another factor is the changing nature of childhood itself. In earlier decades, children often played outdoors in their neighborhoods and participated in community-based activities like delivering May baskets. Today, children's lives are more structured and digital. With less free play and community involvement, simple traditions like May Day have lost their place. Parents and teachers may also be unfamiliar with the holiday, making it less likely to be passed down to new generations.

Though May Day is no longer a major part of American childhood, its legacy still lingers. It serves as a reminder of both the labor movement’s impact on American society and the simple joys of seasonal celebration. While few children today may dance around a maypole or leave flowers on a doorstep, the history of May Day in America reflects the nation's changing values and cultural shifts over time.

 

April Is Stress Awareness Month

Stress is a natural response the body uses to deal with challenges or threats, both real and perceived. It triggers physical and emotional reactions that help us respond to difficult situations. In short bursts, stress can be helpful—it can improve focus, energy, and motivation. However, when stress becomes constant or overwhelming, it can begin to negatively affect nearly every part of a person’s life.

When we experience stress, our bodies react by releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones prepare the body to either fight or flee from danger. This response includes a faster heartbeat, tense muscles, quickened breathing, and heightened alertness. These physical changes can be life-saving in emergencies but can become damaging if the stress response is triggered too often or lasts too long.

Chronic stress can wear down the body over time. It has been linked to a number of health problems including heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, digestive issues, and a weakened immune system. People under long-term stress may also experience headaches, fatigue, weight gain, and trouble sleeping. Mentally, stress can contribute to conditions such as anxiety, depression, and memory problems.

One of the most common sources of stress for adults is the workplace. Heavy workloads, tight deadlines, lack of support, or unclear expectations can all cause stress. When stress builds up, it affects concentration, decision-making, and overall job performance. Employees may feel burned out, irritable, or disengaged, leading to lower productivity and job satisfaction.

Workplace stress doesn’t stay at the office. People often carry that tension home with them, which can disrupt their ability to relax and connect with loved ones. Stress can make a person short-tempered or withdrawn, leading to conflicts with spouses, children, or roommates. Over time, this can strain family relationships and create a stressful home environment for everyone.

When a parent is under ongoing stress, the emotional atmosphere at home often suffers. Children, in particular, are sensitive to emotional changes in their caregivers at home. They may become anxious, develop behavioral issues, or struggle in school. Constant stress in the household can create a cycle where each family member's tension contributes to the others, making the home feel less safe and supportive.

Beyond physical health and relationships, stress can deeply impact a person's emotional well-being. Chronic stress can leave people feeling overwhelmed, helpless, or hopeless. It can erode self-confidence, make it hard to enjoy daily life, and lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as overeating, drinking, or avoiding responsibilities altogether.

Common signs of stress include mood swings, fatigue, changes in appetite, sleep problems, trouble concentrating, and frequent illness. People under stress may also become more easily frustrated or anxious. Recognizing these signs early is key to managing stress before it becomes overwhelming.

There are many strategies for reducing stress. Physical activity, even something as simple as a daily walk, can help lower stress levels. Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can calm the mind and body. Setting boundaries at work and learning to say no when necessary, can also prevent stress from piling up.

If stress becomes unmanageable, it’s important to seek help. Mental health professionals such as counselors, psychologists, and therapists can offer support and teach effective coping skills. Many workplaces provide access to employee assistance programs (EAPs), which often include free counseling services. Primary care doctors can also provide guidance and referrals to mental health specialists.

There are also many community-based and online resources for managing stress. Local health centers, support groups, and nonprofit organizations often offer stress-reduction workshops or therapy at low cost. Online platforms like BetterHelp, Talkspace, or national organizations such as Mental Health America and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offer accessible support and educational tools.

Stress is an unavoidable part of life, but it doesn’t have to control us. By understanding what stress is and how it affects the body, work, and family life, we can begin to recognize it and take steps to manage it in healthy ways. Whether through personal strategies, professional help, or support from loved ones, everyone has the ability to reduce the impact of stress and live a more balanced, fulfilling life.