Next Step Vending Business in Geneseo

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Jen and Kris Keegan are owners and operators of Next Step Vending.  There is no store front for their business, but they are located off Chicago St. in Geneseo, with business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday Through Friday.   For more information, call the business at 309-945-7472.  Contributed Photo

Jen and Kris Keegan looked to the future when they opened Next Step Vending in Geneseo.

   The couple was looking ahead for their next step in life after retirement and that is how they chose their business name, Next Step.

   Next Step Vending is a business that specializes in Vending Machines, coffee stations, and open markets.  The Keegan couple bought into the Naturals 2 Go franchise utilizing a lot of their machines, and Kris Keegan added, “But we have access to all makes and models to fit anyone’s needs.”

   Owner Kris Keegan said, “Our machines are set up to the client’s needs and wants.  Our base machine is refrigerated and can carry up to 60 different products.  We can offer chips, candies, cold foods such as wedge-style sandwiches, and even sodas out of the same machine.”

   He added, “We are not tied to any specific brand of drink, we can offer any brand.  If they need peanut free, sugar free, or healthy options, we are able to fulfill their needs.”

   When asked why he started the business, Kris Keegan replied, “I was intrigued by the idea and looked to lower the life stress and escape the 9-5.”

   He hired a broker to locate small business ideas as he had been searching for passive incomes…”When this one came across my desk, it just seemed to fit,” he said.

   After initiating the business in August of last year, Kris and Jen Keegan went to Savannah, GA, for training in September, 2024, and Keegan added, “with the first machine hitting the ground just before the end of 2024.  We are adding machines to our fleet every month.”

   When asked, “What was the biggest hurdle you had to overcome,” he answered, “As much as I like learning new things, learning a new industry was a little bit of a challenge.  But the one biggest hurdle was landing the supplier contacts to bring my products into the mainstream.  We have access to hundreds of different products and currently carry over 200 products in stock.”

   Next Step Vending is the Keegan’s second business.  In early 2024, they purchased an apartment building in Geneseo, “Next Step Rental Properties LLC.”

 

Native American Culture Program Sept. 12 at Geneseo Library

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current


  Native American Indian Rudy Vallejo will share his Native American culture through song and dance at 2 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 12, at the Geneseo Public Library.  Weather permitting, Vallejo will put his tent up outside the library.

   Vallejo did not grow up with the Kickapoo tribe, but often visited his family there.  When he was nine years old, his grandfather gave him the Indian name, “Shoip-she-0wah-no,” which means “Vision of a Lion.”  The name is of Potawatomi origin, as is his tribe.  Kickapoo means “he who moves about.  Potawatomi means “people of the fire.”

   There are two other Kickapoo tribes in the U.S., the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas and the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma.  There also are Kickapoo in Mexico, where Vallejo’s father was from.  His mother’s family was of the Prairie Band of Potawatomi Nation from Kansas.

   Vallejo’s maternal grandmother and grandfather (of Kickapoo descent) were sent to boarding schools designed to “take the Indian out of the Indian” and given the western names of “Susie and Frank.”  Vallejo acknowledges the severe struggles encountered by Native children who were forced to abandon their culture and language and he thinks it’s important to “overcome those times and keep going.”

  Information from the Geneseo Library included: “Sharing native culture and history during events such as the one at the Geneseo Library allows Native Americans opportunities to do that.”

   Vallejo has been teaching the Eagle Dance to young and old for years in order to preserve and promote Native culture and history.  He treasures the memories of his grandmother…” My grandmother inspired me to follow in her footsteps and carry on the tradition of dancing, and we need to teach our young people these values and traditions before we pass away and they are lost forever.”

   The Eagle Dance is an honor dance traditionally performed in honor of the elders of the tribe.  Vallejo explained that real feathers are used in the dance, but are received from the National Eagle Repository in Colorado.  Because it is illegal to pick up Eagle feathers from the ground, native Americans can apply for them through the repository.

   “There are 12 feathers on an eagle’s tail,” Vallejo explained.  “The two middle feathers are the straightest. They are called the chief feathers.  The two feathers on the outside are known as the dance feathers.  These are the ones we wear on the dance roach when we perform the eagle dance.”

   “The remaining eight feathers stand for what Native Americans, and all Americans, should be,” he added.  “These traits are honesty, truth, majesty, strength, courage, wisdom, power and lastly, majesty.”

  In order to prepare for the dance, Vallejo has to dress accordingly.  On his head, he wears a head roach:  which is a traditional headpiece fashioned of porcupine skin with red, white and blue feathers atop.  And he must abstain from consuming alcohol.  They must handle the eight eagle feathers with care so as not to drop them.  In the event that they drop a feather on the floor, the drum would stop playing and a veteran would pick it up and return it to the dancer.

   At one time, Vallejo said Indian tribes could trade eagle feathers for a horse.  His grandfather taught him how to clean eagle feathers by dipping them twice in a river.  Today, he still goes to the Mississippi River to clean the eagle feathers he owns.

   Members of federally recognized tribes are allowed to own eagle feathers because of their great cultural and religious significance.  However, even eligible Native Americans must get a permit to receive and own them.  They are allowed to wear, use, inherit, and give eagle feathers to other Native Americans, but they cannot give them to non-Natives.

'Mrs. Lincoln in Love’ Program Sept. 13 at Geneseo Library

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   Laura Keyes will present “Mrs. Lincoln in Love” at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13, at the Geneseo Public Library,

   Mary Todd Lincoln lived a life filled with triumphs and tragedies, but few people know her story…Librarian Laura Keyes shares Mary’s story in an entertaining and educational program which is set on Jan. 31, 1862, when Mrs. Lincoln and her family are settled comfortable in the Executive Mansion.   Visiting with ladies during Afternoon Tea, Mrs. Lincoln reflects on the loves of her life – her children, her husband, and her country.  She even shares some of Mr. Lincoln’s love letters to her!

   At the Sept. 13 library program, Keyes will share how Mary Todd Lincoln’s knowledge of both politics and social customs made it possible for a backwoods frontier attorney to achieve the highest office in the land.

   Keyes graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a Master’s Degree in Library Studies, and is Director of the Dunlap Public Library.  She also is on the Board of Directors of the Association of Lincoln Presenters, and in 2017, she won the Mary Todd Lincoln Oratory Contest at the Lincoln Days celebration in Hodgenville, KY.

 

The Scoop: City Hall

1.  The City Council voted on rules and official mapping of the public trail system at Prairie Park. The rules and mapping will posted at the park this Fall and the “parks” page of the city website will be undergoing an update to feature this information and to better highlight and promote all of the city’s parks. The solar farm project continues to be tabled, and there are no current plans for ongoing discussion in the near future. The city will be forming a volunteer group of individuals that are interested in assisting with keeping the trails at Prairie Park maintained.
 
 2.  Phase #1 construction on North State Street is nearly complete.  Unless there are unforeseen weather delays, the roadway will fully open by the second week of September.  Phase #2 (Wells to Ogden) is expected to begin in 2026, as the City Council develops plans and budgets for capital projects over the next two months. Additional neighborhood meetings will take place before the construction of Phase #2 begins in 2026, and all neighboring property owners on the route will be invited to attend and ask questions.

Dynes to Perform at Quad Cities Fringe Festival

Elissa Dynes

Elissa Dynes is set to premiere her contemporary adaptation of Eugene O’Neill’s one-woman play, "Before Breakfast," titled "Ro," at the inaugural Black Box Theatre of the Quad Cities Fringe Festival. The performance will take place at 7:30 PM on Sunday, August 31, 2025. This 30-minute production is part of her Independent Research Project for her MFA in International Theatre Practice and Performance at Rose Bruford College in London.
 
 "Ro" explores the complex gender dynamics and economic pressures that influence modern relationships through the story of a 28-year-old woman named Ro. The performance highlights the emotional and financial struggles she faces, ultimately prompting her to prioritize her own well-being. Please note that the show contains content warnings for discussions surrounding mental illness, drugs, nude photography, and opioids.

Elissa Dynes is the daughter of Gary and Gammy Dynes of Annawan.  Grandparents are the late Dwight and Nadine Swanson of Geneseo.
 
 Dynes holds a degree in Theatre and Politics from the University of Dubuque and has honed her craft at the National Theater Institute in Connecticut. Her previous credits include portraying Cecily Farr in "84 Charing Cross Road" with the Richmond Hill Players. For more information about the Fringe Festival, you can visit the Black Box of the Quad Cities Facebook page

 

GUMDROPS at Grace Church Registration Underway

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   Four-year-old Sophie Rushing, left; her mother Jenna Rushing, and her seven-year-old sister Claire Rushing, are shown with some of the toys to be used for the Lil’ GUMDROPS - Grace United Methodist Church Draw, Read, Open Play and Snack – playgroup offered at Grace United Methodist Church in Geneseo.  Registration is underway for the fall session which begins Wednesday, Oct. 8.  Registration deadline is Sept. 19.  Photo by Claudia Loucks

Lil’ GUMDROPS volunteers are ready to welcome youngsters at Grace United Methodist Church in Geneseo.

   The Lil’ GUMDROPS – Grace United Methodist Church Draw, Read, Open Play and Snack - playgroup will begin Wednesday, Oct. 8, at the church, 318 North Center St.

   GUMDROPS is a weekly play group and outreach program for children that is hosted and supported by Grace Church.

    Sessions are from 9:15 to 10:30 a.m., on Wednesdays, from Oct. 8 through Nov. 19.  There is a special field trip on Friday, Oct .24 when the group will visit Frank’s Pumpkin Patch in Atkinson. 

The program is open to the community, for children ages 2-5.  Children who attend must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver.   Cost is $20 for the first child and $10 for each additional child in the same family. 

   Registration deadline for the fall session is Friday, Sept. 19, and registration can be completed through the church website at www.geneseograce.org or through the group’s Face book page, www.facebook.com/lilgumdrops.   Space is limited for the fall session and registration is recommended as soon as possible.

   Lil’ GUMDROPS is under the direction of church member Jenna Rushing. 

   Rushing said the program includes time for play, snacks, crafts and stories with weekly themes. 

   Rushing said, “Special events are planned for the fall session, and photos will be taken with the group’s trip to Frank’s Pumpkin Patch, and at the session when the children, dressed in costume, go trick-or-treating throughout the church.  

  Rushing said, “GUMDROPS was founded as a way to initiate new relationships between church members and people in the community, and to witness God’s love through service.”

   The schedule:

  -Oct. 8 – Color Poetry.
  -Oct. 15 – Photos with Sarah Sunstrom.
  -Oct. 24 – Trip to Frank’s Pumpkin Patch.
  -Oct. 29 – Trick-or-Treat around the church.
  -Nov. 5 – Noah’s Ark.
  -Nov. 12 – Shapes.
  -Nov. 19 – Thanksgiving.

 

Geneseo Chamber of Commerce Announces the 19th Annual Trains, Planes, & Automobiles

Zack Sullivan
Geneseo Chamber of Commerce

The 19th Annual Trains, Planes & Automobiles event will take place Thursday September 4th through Saturday September 6th in Geneseo, IL.
This year’s event will feature a model train display, WWII Stearman Bi-Planes, a guided historic golf cart tour of the Hennepin Canal, Food Trucks, Live Music, and the event boasts one of the largest annual car shows in Illinois, featuring over 350 classic cars!

The annual Trains, Planes and Automobiles festival is highlighted by the VFW Salute to America on Saturday September 6 at noon. During the Salute to Veterans, the VFW Honor Guard will lead the tribute that includes a moment of silence, a national anthem performance, and a stirring airplane fly-over.
The Erie RC Club will feature a Model Airplane Display for guests to get an up-close look at Model RC Planes and to learn more about the hobby.
The Geneseo Historical Museum will also be celebrating local Aviation Pioneer Harold Neumann during the event with a celebration that will feature exhibits, a children’s scavenger hunt, and family activities.

The Gold Sponsor for the 19th Annual Trains, Planes & Automobiles festival in Geneseo is Hiland Toyota.

The following is a schedule of events for the event. Please watch for street closures and dates throughout the event.

Thursday, September 4th
Stearman Fly-In at Gen-Airpark 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
· Gen-Air Park is hosting the annual Stearman Fly-In, located on Rt. 6 east of Geneseo
· Experience the sights and sounds of WWII Stearman bi-planes. Absolutely No Pets.

Friday, September 5th
Cruise the Canal from Hennepin Canal Lock #24 to Lock #26 and back.

· 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Enjoy historic tours of the Hennepin Canal.

• Tours end at approx. 3:00 pm.

· Reservations Required. $30 per person. Includes golf cart (driven by you) and guided tour of the Canal. LIMITED SEATS STILL AVAILABLE.

· Cart drivers must have a valid driver’s license. Reservations: Geneseo Chamber 309-944-2686.

TPA Pre-Party sponsored by Erdman Construction – 101 S. Chicago St.

• 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm – Food Trucks & Geneseo Brewing Co.

• 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm: LIVE MUSIC by Soul Cage

Saturday, September 6th
Downtown Geneseo 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Car Show - Train Display - Airplane Display - No Pets Please

• Maple City Cruisers Car Show, Free show, Donations accepted

• 7 a.m. – 11 a.m. registration. Dash Plaques to first 300 entries, goody bags to first 250 entries.

• 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. Music provided by 3D Sound.

• 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Operating Model Train Display by Geneseo Model Railroaders at 154 E. Exchange St.

• 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Harold Neumann Aviation Pioneer Celebration at Geneseo Historical Museum featuring exhibits, a children’s scavenger hunt, and family activities.

• 11 a.m. Youth Pedal Car Parade, meet at The Cellar at 10:45 a.m.

• 12 p.m. Salute to America - VFW Honor Guard, airplane fly-over.

• 2 p.m. Trophy Awards & Geneseo Chamber 50/50 Raffle Drawing, Car show ends at 3:00 pm

The event will be filled with many opportunities to experience these mighty machines up close and we invite you to join us both during the event and at any time in Geneseo, IL. Our incredible stores and restaurants will be open all day long for your shopping and dining needs. All events are free unless otherwise indicated.

For more information, call the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce at 309-944-2686.

Hammond-Henry Hospital Adopts State-of-the-Art EMR System

Geneseo, IL - Hammond-Henry Hospital’s Board of Directors, Administration, and IT Management are proud to announce that the hospital and its Family Practice/Walk-In Clinics’ Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system is transitioning from Meditech to Epic, a state-of-the-art platform hosted by UnityPoint.

Hammond-Henry Hospital has utilized its current EMR software (Meditech) since 1999, according to Heather Henry, IT Manager. Over time, technological advancements and regulatory requirements in the healthcare industry have demanded more from EMR systems and the hospital’s move to Epic is in response to that need.

“We want to give our patients the best possible care, but in this transition period, we ask for your patience and understanding as our staff continues to learn and adapt to new workflows,” said Wyatt Brieser, CEO. “The decision to move to Epic included the year-long-plus effort of heavily researching EMR companies and determining which would best meet current needs while also helping Hammond-Henry Hospital reach its goals for the future.”

The move to Epic will mean all existing and new HHH patients will have a new patient portal entitled MyChart. MyChart will allow patients to communicate with their care team, schedule and manage appointments (including rehab/therapy services appointments), review medical records (such as immunization history and test results), and view After-Visit Summaries and clinical notes documented by your provider.

Hammond-Henry will continue to contract with the same insurance plans and bill for service independently. It will also continue to work with Magnet Solutions for payment plans and self-pay.

“Epic is used by some of the largest hospital organizations in the country. These vast networks of hospitals have extensive teams of technical support staff and other resources needed to implement and maintain highly complex systems and interfaces,” said Brieser. “Small critical access hospitals, like us, lack these resources. To accommodate small hospitals, a program called ‘Epic Community Connect’ was formed. This program allows larger organizations, UnityPoint Health in our case, to host Epic for a sub-network of smaller hospitals.”

“This doesn’t mean we are now owned by or affiliated with UnityPoint Health. We remain an independent hospital,” he continued. “Even if you see the UnityPoint Health name and logo, please know that Hammond-Henry remains the independent critical access organization that you know and trust.”

Patients’ first couple of visits may take a little longer than usual, and they may be asked for information that was already provided in the past.

“Please realize that communication between you and your care team will be improved because of this move to Epic,” said Brieser. “At the end of every visit, patients will receive an After-Visit Summary via the communication method of your preference. This document will outline your visit from that day, show any future appointments you have scheduled, and list your current medications and any new orders or changes made.

“The After-Visit summary also includes patient instructions from your provider, personalized care recommendations, helpful resources, and contact information,” Brieser added. “We are trying to make this move as easy as possible. We appreciate UnityPoint’s assistance, and we anticipate an even better workflow and dissemination of health information in the very near future.”

Please visit www.hammondhenry.com/about/epic-mychart for more information. The transition to Epic will take place on September 21, 2025.

Geneseo Chamber Powers Ahead, Honors Excellence at 2025 Annual Dinner

Zack Sullivan
Geneseo Chamber of Commerce
Executive Director

GENESEO, IL – The Geneseo Chamber of Commerce gathered business and community leaders last night at Lavender Crest Winery for its 2025 Annual Dinner & Awards Banquet—an evening of celebration, recognition, and a shared vision for the future.

“The Geneseo Chamber isn’t coasting – we’re charging forward. And we’re bringing Geneseo with us,” said Zack Sullivan, IOM, Executive Director of the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce, as he opened the evening.

The event was more than a celebration—it was an opportunity to reflect on a year of milestones and to share plans for continued progress. Sullivan highlighted key achievements from the past year, including:

• Investment in professional development for Geneseo Chamber staff.

• The Geneseo Chamber’s first advocacy trip to Washington, D.C. in 16 years, representing Geneseo’s business community at the national level.

• Successfully adapting the 2024 Geneseo Christmas Walk after an ice storm forced last-minute changes.

“I can’t be the only person who has noticed Geneseo’s positive economic momentum over the past five years,” Sullivan told the crowd. “This progress is not the result of two people at the Chamber office. It is the result of all of the hard work our business community puts into their crafts, of the leadership at our City, and of your dedication to making Geneseo the best place it can be.”

The Geneseo Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the local economy, stating: “We are eager to see Geneseo’s continued growth during the second half of the decade. And we’ll be here to support Geneseo’s incredible business community along the way!”

The evening also honored individuals and organizations that exemplify leadership, service, and innovation within the Geneseo Business Community:

• Lifetime Achievement Award – Lorrie & Barry Snodgrass

• Business of the Year – Blain’s Farm & Fleet

• Business Person of the Year – Tina Cooper of NOSH (accepted via video message)

• ACES Award – Geneseo School District 228 (presented by Inspire Continuing Care; accepted by Superintendent Dr. Laura Delgado)

• Beautification Award – Erdman Construction LLC

• Rising Star Award – Habaneros Geneseo

• Volunteers of the Year – Kristen Granell & Ashley Moore, Little Miss Geneseo Music Fest Pageant The Geneseo Chamber thanks its 2025 Annual Dinner & Awards Banquet sponsors: Apex Clean Energy, Mel-O-D Lane Boarding, Sedlock Construction, Trackside Liquors, In A Godda Da Vida Music, Geneseo Communications, Catherine Rothschild CPA, and Caffeine and Carbs.

The evening concluded with a spirited auction, friendly networking, and a shared sense of excitement for Geneseo’s future

Lifetime Achievement Award – Lorrie & Barry Snodgrass

ACES Award – Geneseo School District 228 (presented by Inspire Continuing Care; accepted by Superintendent Dr. Laura Delgado)

Rising Star Award – Habaneros Geneseo

Business of the Year – Blain’s Farm & Fleet

Beautification Award – Erdman Construction LLC

 

New School Staff at 2025 Luncheon at Grace Church in Geneseo

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current


  Jeff Orton, retired Geneseo School District teacher, and Grace Church member, served as emcee at the new staff luncheon.    A quote printed in the programs at the luncheon stated, “Students may not remember everything you said, but they will remember how special you made them feel.”

New staff members, their mentors and new administrators in the Geneseo School District were honored on Aug. 7 at a luncheon at Grace United Methodist Church. The 2025 luncheon was the 45th year for the church to host new teachers, counselors and administrators to the district.

-ELEMENTARY: - Taylor DeSplinter, fifth grade, Northside School; Anna Poel, vocal music, Northside; Madisyn Ryan, kindergarten, Millikin; Katlyn Schmitt, third grade, Southwest; Cassie Wales, fifth grade, Southwest; and Danielle Wieland, fourth grade, Millikin.

-MIDDLE SCHOOL: - Cody Robertson, history, Middle School; Jennifer Woolsey, instructional coach; and Sarah Williams.

-HIGH SCHOOL: – Tara Hinton, English, Geneseo High School; Keyaira Lavine, guidance counselor, Mitchell Munda, physical education; and Michael Bell, special education.

-HENRY/STARK: - Meloney Brasmer, Carrie Brown, Jordan Seei and Stephanie Wexell.

Photos by Claudia Loucks

New staff members at the elementary schools in the Geneseo School District are, in front from left, Carrie Brown, Katlyn Schmitt, Jordan Seei; and Madisyn Ryan; and in back, Taylor DeSplinter, Cassie Wales, Danielle Wieland, Anna Poel and Stephanie Wexell. Photo by Claudia Loucks

New staff at the Geneseo Middle School and at Geneseo High School are, in front from left, Jennifer Woolsey, Mitch Munda, Michael Bell, and Meloney Brasmer; and in back, Tara Hinton, Keyaira Lavine, Cody Robertson, and Sarah Williams. Photo by Claudia Loucks

   Geneseo School District Superintendent Laura Delgado, left; and school board member Diane Olson visit at the new staff luncheon.

 

   Larry Johnsen, left, GHS teacher; Margaret Hitzhusen, retired from Geneseo School District and a member of Grace Church; and Mary Orton, seated, retired from Geneseo School District and Grace Church member, were visiting at the luncheon.

   Brooke Emmerson, left, assistant principal at GHS, and Philip Moe, principal at Millikin School, also were at the luncheon.

   Jordan Seei, left, new staff member in the Geneseo School District, and Tasha Moe, teacher, who is Seei’s mentor, were at the new staff luncheon Thursday at Grace Church.

   Jeremy Mosier, left, assistant principal at GHS, and Tom Ryerson, GHS principal, were photographed at the new staff event held Aug. 7 at Grace United Methodist Church in Geneseo.

 

New Exhibition - Smith Studio and Gallery

Dave Smith
Smith Studio & Gallery

Now on exhibit at the Smith Studio and Gallery, in downtown Geneseo, is the Illinois Art Education Association’s (IAEA) traveling exhibition of K-12th grade student artwork. This unique statewide art exhibition is re-created each year in order to showcase student artwork. The current 2024-2025 exhibition consists of 45 works of art that were picked from over 600 entries. This creative exhibition has been traveling Illinois for the past year and it is now in its’ eleventh and final showing. 

This unique exhibition helps to display much of the Visual Art curricular goals and educational objectives that are included throughout Illinois schools. More importantly this artwork gives a glimpse into the thinking and wonderful creativity of children at different age levels. This exhibition is a delightful treat for families and children. While this unique exhibition is in western Illinois it is hoped that community leaders, school board members and educators at all levels will take the time to consider the importance of the Arts in education. 

During August this exhibit is open and free to the public.

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

 

Hammond-Henry Hospital moves offices to better accommodate patients, physicians

Geneseo IL - In an effort to better accommodate patients and its expanding list of physicians and services, Hammond-Henry Hospital, located at 600 N. College Avenue, Geneseo, is in the process of moving its Specialty Clinic, its Surgical Clinic, and Home Health Services.

Hammond-Henry Hospital’s Home Health Services recently moved its Cambridge office back to Geneseo and is now conveniently located across from the hospital at 534 N. Center Street. Home Health Services’ hours remain Monday-Friday from 8 am to 4:30 pm, and their phone number is 309.944.4853.

The former Specialty Physicians Center or the Northwest Clinic at Hammond-Henry Hospital will now be called the Hammond-Henry Hospital Specialty Clinic. The Hammond-Henry Hospital Specialty Clinic, which will officially move on August 4, will serve as the office site for HHH’s General Surgeon (James Schrier, MD), Orthopedic Surgeon (Ryan Pizinger, MD), Pain Management Specialist (John Dooley, MD*), and Rheumatologist (Manoj Kohli, MD*).

“The new Specialty Clinic location offers improved accessibility, making your visits more convenient, and you’ll also have a larger, more comfortable environment for all your appointments,” said Derek Fortin, Specialty Clinic Manager. Those interested in reaching the Specialty Clinic can call 309.944.1595.

Cardiovascular medicine, endocrinology, nephrology, and urology patients that formerly visited physicians within the Specialty Physicians Center on the first floor of the hospital will now visit their physicians (except Dr. Cory Straub, endocrinologist, and Keelin Willits, APRN, urologist) in the Hammond-Henry Hospital Outreach Clinic, located in Suite 220 on the second floor of the hospital.

The new Hammond-Henry Outreach Clinic (formerly the Surgical Clinic) can be accessed by taking Elevator 2 and following the signs for the outreach clinic. Those seeing Rajiv Mallik, MD*, Rafat Padaria, MD*; Aswartha Pothula, MD*, Sanjeev Puri, MD*; Rajesh Alla, MD*; and Travis Figanbaum, MD*, will see these physicians in the Outreach Clinic on the second floor, beginning August 4.

Cory Straub, MD*, will see patients in the UnityPoint Clinic, located on the first floor of the hospital in Suite 130. Keelin Willits, APRN*, will no longer have hours or office space in Hammond-Henry Hospital. She will see patients at Urological Associates, PC, at 600 Valley View Drive, Upper Level, Moline, or 3319 Spring Street, Davenport, IA.

* Physician is an independent, non HHH employed contractor with privileges to provide healthcare services at Hammond-Henry Hospital.

Middle School Walking Path to Have Wellness Stations

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current


Marcia Wirth, left; Hammond-Henry Hospital dietitian; and Katie Orwig, Hospital Foundation Manager, are shown at one of the wellness stations now in place along the walking path at the Geneseo Middle School.   The hospital and the Geneseo School District teamed up to add four wellness stations along the walking path and those signs will be unveiled at a celebration planned for 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 2.   Community members are Invited to the event, and walkers along the path will see the new signs as well as receive some giveaways at each of the wellness stations.  Exercises are listed on the signs as well as instructional videos that can be assessed from each sign by a QR code.  Photo by Claudia Loucks

Hammond-Henry Hospital and the Geneseo School District have teamed up to add wellness stations along the walking path at the Geneseo Middle School.

Katie Orwig, Hammond-Henry Hospital Foundation Manager, said, “In an effort to engage with the community, HHH has created an employee-led committee to offer events both inside and outside of the hospital.”

HHH will host an event to celebrate the unveiling of the four wellness stations at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 2, and members of the community are welcome. Walkers along the path will be able to see the new signs as well as receive some giveaways at each of the wellness stations.

The idea for the wellness stations originated with Marcia Wirth, HHH dietitian. She and her daughter regularly walk a path at Rosland Park in Edina, MN, where there are signs along the way with exercises that can be done as part of a walker’s loop around a lake.

According to Orwig, Wirth has long thought this was something that cold be done in Geneseo…As a co-lead on the community committee, Wirth brought the idea to the group.

Many locations were discussed, but the Middle School walking path seemed to be the best place.

Geneseo Middle School Principal Nate O’Dell was contacted and he brought in the appropriate staff to help in the decision-making process.

The project involves several departments within HHH. Rehab department staff Jennifer Mills and John Davis chose the exercises to be listed and made instructional videos that can be assessed from each sign by a QR code. Using her nutrition background, Wirth teamed up with fellow HHH dietitian Anna Kreiser to add nutritional information and can be expanded upon with the help of an additional QR code.

The cost of the signs was covered by a donation to the HHH Foundation by Wirth, Inc., and Orwig said, “We are happy to partner with community leaders like Wirth, Inc., and the Geneseo School District to establish what we hope to be a long-lasting enhancement to the walking path.”

In addition to her position as HHH Foundation Manager, Orwig also is co-lead of the community committee.

 

From Caterpillar to Chrysalis to Butterfly at Geneseo Library

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Geneseo Public Library is buzzing with all kinds of activity. The concrete for the Reading Garden has been poured and the two resident caterpillars have changed into chrysalises.

Library staff is preparing for a class for “little ones” (ages 4-9) at 9 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 1, which will be under the direction of former preschool teacher Donna Piekos.

The session will include a variety of activities and “hopefully,” a butterfly release.

This spring, the library received a flat of milk weed plants as part of a grant to help the Monarch butterflies prosper in the area. A spokesperson for the library said, “Unfortunately Mother Nature does things on her own schedule, so there is a chance the butterflies may complete their metamorphosis by Aug. 1, and will be gone, but we have a few reserve caterpillars that may help us out.” Contributed Photos

 

Hammond-Henry Hospital to Welcome New Orthopedic Surgeon

Geneseo - The Board of Directors and Administration are pleased to announce that Dr. Ryan Pizinger will offer fulltime orthopedic surgical services at Hammond-Henry Hospital in Geneseo, beginning in the fall of this year. He will also see patients in both the Geneseo and Kewanee Clinics.

Dr. Pizinger’s office will be located within the hospital’s first floor Specialty Clinic, formerly the Northwest Clinic, Suite 110. No referrals are necessary and those wishing to find out more information or schedule an appointment can do so by calling 309.944.1595. A public open house for Dr. Pizinger will be announced at a later date.

“Dr. Pizinger has more than 20 years of experience in orthopedic surgery, and we are thrilled he has roots in Illinois (Yorkville area) and wanted to come back,” said Colton Anderson, Director of Physician Recruitment and Clinic Services. “He specializes in total joint care and is highly experienced in total joint replacement operations, including the newer anterior hip replacement techniques. Having an orthopedic surgeon of our own is very important for advancing this service for our patients. Dr. Pizinger will be a wonderful addition to our staff.”

Dr. Pizinger specializes in sports medicine, joint replacement surgery, anterior hip replacement surgery, shoulder reconstruction, and hip, shoulder, and knee arthroscopy. Prior to his appointment at Hammond-Henry Hospital, Dr. Pizinger served SSM Health Fond du Lac Regional Clinic in Wisconsin and prior to that, the Illinois Orthopedic Institute, Joliet. While in Joliet, he also served as Director of Sports Medicine for Bolingbrook and Romeoville High Schools.

“I like giving my patients full autonomy in what they choose to do as far as treatment goes. Allowing them to make an informed decision that they are comfortable with is very important,” said Dr. Pizinger. “I ensure they fully understand the diagnosis and all options for treatment. What I like best, though, is fixing a problem and having that patient be happy and pleased with the outcome. It feels good to be part of that process.”

A Board-Certified Surgeon, Dr. Pizinger completed his Fellowship in Sports Medicine from Aspen Orthopaedic Associates, CO, in 2012; his Residency in Orthopedic Surgery from Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, NH; Medical School from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, VA; and his Pre-Med degree from the University of Maine, where he received his Bachelor’s degree in Pre-Med with minors in Microbiology and Chemistry.

“I am excited to have this opportunity to serve this rural community in western Illinois, and I hope to see many years of treating people here,” said Dr. Pizinger.

Dr. Pizinger will see patients Monday through Friday. Dr. Pizinger is married to his wife, Jackie, and has two children, Shae, 17, and Samantha, 16.

Richmond Hill Players Comedy Opens July 10

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

David Beeson, left, Kewanee; Jackie Patterson, Geneseo; Jessica Moore, Kewanee, and Samuel Carrington, Galesburg, area among the cast members of the comedy, ‘A Fox on the Fairway,” to be staged by the Richmond Gill Players in Geneseo.  Contributed Photo

  Richmond Hill Players continue the 2025 season with a comedy, Ken Ludwig’s “A Fox on the Fairway.”   The show will be presented Thursdays through Sundays, July 10-20, at the Barn Theatre in Geneseo.

   Tom Morrow, Rock Island, directs the play.

   The Richmond Hill Players’ press release states, “Ken Ludwig’s ‘A Fox on the Fairway’ is a tribute to the English farces of the 1930’s and ‘40’s, taking audiences on a riotous ride that recalls the classic of the Marx Brothers.

   Set amid the leafy greens of Quail Valley Country Club, the story unfolds on the day Quail Valley faces its oldest rival – nearby Crouching Squirrel Golf and Racquet Club – for the golf tournament of the decade.   Battle lines are drawn and the two clubs, like Greece and Troy, assemble their bravest heroes and play on to the final, madcap putt. 

   Along the way these arch-rivals get entangled in wagers, injuries, and romance with uproarious mayhem as they do whatever it takes to save face, win their bets and get their lives in order.”

   The show is considered suitable for those age 13 and older.

   The cast features Jackie Patterson, Geneseo; David Beeson and Jessica Moore, Kewanee; Sarah Carrington and Samuel Carrington, Galesburg; and David Shaffer, Moline. 

   The staff includes stage manager Jim Driscoll, Bettendorf; light/sound/ designer/operator Dana Skiles; set builder Mike Skiles; props crew Ann Keeney-Grafft and Jackie Skiles, all of Geneseo; and set builder, Jim Skiles, Colona.

   On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, the doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the show beginning at 7:30 p.m.  Sunday shows are 3 p.m. matinees with the doors opening at 2 p.m. 

   Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling the Richmond Hill box office at 309-944-2244 or by visiting the website at rhplayers.com.

   Late seating is not permitted; no one will be admitted to the theater after the show has started. 

   Admission to all performances is $12.

   An audio description performance will be held Friday, July 11.  Richmond Hill also offers Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs), which can be requested at the time reservations are made.

   ABOUT:  RICHMOND HILL PLAYERS - a non-profit community theater group presenting plays in the converted top floor of an old dairy barn in Geneseo since 1968.  Approximately 100 active members are involved on and off-stage each year, with actors, directors, backstage personnel, support staffs, and audience drawn from a 75-100 -mile radius that includes cities in both Illinois and Iowa.

Hammond-Henry Employs ‘One of its Own’ as CEO of the Geneseo Critical Access Hospital

GENESEO – After an extensive, nationwide search, the board of directors of Hammond-Henry Hospital has named Wyatt Brieser to serve as its next CEO. The board met early Tuesday in special session to make its selection.

The 38-year-old Brieser, who was born and raised in Henry County, joined HHH in 2009 as a rehab tech, followed by multiple promotions to physical therapist, Long Term Care Living Center Manager, Director of Ancillary Services, and Vice President of Operations, all within Hammond-Henry Hospital. Effective in early July, Brieser’s newest title will be CEO of the Geneseo critical access hospital that will celebrate its 125th anniversary in 2026.

“My roots in this community run deep,” said Brieser. “Working at Hammond-Henry Hospital over the last 15 years has allowed me to become more aware of the integrity, responsibility, and resiliency that must accompany our employment. I believe that Hammond-Henry’s success is dependent on our ability to grow with the times while holding tightly to our core values. I will pursue sustainable growth while maintaining patient, provider, and employee satisfaction.

“With due respect to the barriers and obstacles that lie ahead of us, I take comfort in knowing who we are and what Hammond-Henry stands for. I know that we have great potential for continued excellence in healthcare,” he continued. “Furthermore, I believe that we can do it at a level of quality, compassion, and value that surpasses the standard in our nation. I am honored and excited to lead those efforts.”

Brieser has been instrumental in helping bring new physicians and new service lines to Hammond-Henry’s hospital and clinics including neurology, chiropractic care, pain management, and soon, a rheumatologist and its own orthopedic surgeon. He acted as administrator over the recent efforts to upgrade imaging and diagnostic capabilities to the hospital’s MRI, fluoroscopy, and 3-D mammography equipment and, in 2023, was administrator over a $1 million laboratory remodel. He also managed the HHH Long Term Care Living Center through COVID from 2019-2021.

Brieser has continued to be intrinsically involved in athletic training at offsite sporting events, building up local boys’ and girls’ Summit sports programs and the community-wide Free2Play Youth Fun Day, while also remaining an active member of the Geneseo Kiwanis Club and St. Anthony’s Church. Additionally, he is an Inspiring Continuing Care Community partner and serves as the Geneseo Community Center’s Seminars Coordinator.

“Hammond-Henry Hospital and the Henry County community continue to offer me opportunities to advance and grow. I’ve had so many champions in my life to love, support, and mentor me. It has become my personal mission to return that love and support to this community,” said Brieser. “As I’ve grown at Hammond-Henry, my platform to accomplish this mission has expanded. I’ll never fully repay the kindness that has been offered to me, but there will be continued effort and intent to do so.”

As for the future of the hospital, Brieser added, “Our mission continues – to improve the quality of life in our communities through excellence in healthcare. But to drill down further into that mission is a return to our foundational values. For our patients: the care that they receive is not our job, it is our calling to serve in this life. We will provide that care with respect, honor, and dignity. We will find ways to build and sustain services that provide holistic opportunities to receive health and wellness support. For our employees: we will be an enriching environment to innovate and grow. This will be true for entry level employees through highly specialized providers. We will strive to be the place to work and establish a lasting practice. For our community: we will support positive movement in social determinants of health through high-quality healthcare, education, volunteerism, networking (participation and engagement), and resource sharing.

“I can promise you the same effort, dedication, and passion that you have become accustomed to in my tenure. My role as VPO has positioned me for this opportunity, and I will continue to grow under the tutelage of the board, our providers, managers, employees, and community,” he concluded.

A 2024 Illinois Critical Access Hospital Network “4 Under 40” Hospital Leadership Award winner, Brieser received his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Augustana College, his MBA from St. Ambrose University, and his DPT from Washington University in St. Louis. Brieser’s family consists of his wife, Hannah; his son, Brooks; his daughter, Maddox or “Moxie,” as she is affectionately called; and another baby on its way in September.

Geneseo Chamber of Commerce Announces 2025 Cruise the Canal Tours

Zack Sullivan
Executive Director
zsullivan@geneseo.org

Photo courtesy of Geneseo Current

The Geneseo Chamber of Commerce announces its popular Cruise the Canal golf cart tours of the Hennepin Canal for 2025 on Friday September 5 and Friday October 17. The
Cruise the Canal tours allow tourists in our area to enjoy one of Illinois’ State Parks and a second chance to experience the tours surrounded by fall foliage.
"The popularity of the Hennepin Canal State Parkway north of Geneseo has increased over the past few years, with almost 2 million people visiting the 104.5 mile long park annually.” says Zack Sullivan, Executive Director of the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce.
"People organize group hikes, kayaking and canoeing are popular, and of course, the fishing is great! Combined with the majestic sights and sounds of nature at the canal, this is a unique opportunity to discover, or rediscover, one of our area’s best kept secrets.”
The popular golf cart tours offer the opportunity for guests to learn the story of the Hennepin canal - including the construction, history, and ecosystem of the canal. Tours are offered three times per day, with tour times at 9:00 am, 11:00 am, and 1:00 pm. All tours begin at Lock #24 and travel west to Lock #26 before turning back towards the starting point. The cost per person to participate is $30/person. The Geneseo Chamber also works with assisted
living facilities to provide rides for seniors with no cost for the caregiver to drive.
A portion of the proceeds from the Geneseo Cruise the Canal tours goes to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) for preservation, upkeep, and maintenance of the Hennepin Canal State Parkway. Information on how to get involved with canal preservation efforts is available at the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce and the Friends of the Hennepin Canal.
The canal tours sell out each year and are expected to sell out in 2025, so make your reservation ASAP! For more information and to reserve a spot on one of the tours, call the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce at 309-944-2686 or email geneseo@geneseo.org.

 

Rebuilding Together Will Host Hands-On Ramp Build for Volunteers

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   Rebuilding Together Henry County is calling on local residents to “roll up their sleeves and join a hands-on volunteer opportunity designed to educate and empower community members.

Rebuilding Together Henry County volunteers include, from left, Hal Clark, Jack Gowan and Steve Durian.  Contributed Photo

   The organization will host an Informational Ramp Build at 8 a.m. on Saturday, June 28, at the Rebuilding Together headquarters, 101 N. Church St., Atkinson.

   The instructional event is open to both new and returning volunteers interested in learning the fundamentals of building wheelchair-accessible ramps.

   Sarah Snyder, executive director of RTHC, said, “Whether you’re an experienced builder or someone simply looking to make a difference, no prior construction experience is required.”

   “This is a great way to get involved with our mission of making homes safer and more accessible for our elderly and disabled neighbors,” she added.  “We’ll provide everything you need, from training and materials to donuts and coffee!”

   Participants in the Hands-On Opportunity will:
  -Gain insight into how the ramp program works.
  -Learn hands-on building techniques from seasoned volunteers.
  -Assist in constructing part of a ramp on-site.
  -Connect with other community-minded individuals.

   Snyder said most tools and supplies will be provided, but those planning to attend are asked to bring handheld drills and impact drivers if they have them. 

   She said, “The event also is a valuable opportunity for volunteers to see the real-world impact of their contributions in building independence and accessibility for those in need.”

   For more information or to RSVP, volunteers are encouraged to email ssnyder@rebuildingtogether-hc.org or rthcpres@gmail.com.

   “Rebuilding Together Henry County has been a vital part of the community for over 30 years, improving hundreds of lives through critical home repairs and accessibility modifications.  The upcoming event on June 28 is just one more way the non-profit continues to build stronger, safer communities – one ramp at a time.”