by Sarah DeMaranville
Geneseo Current
GENESEO, IL — The Geneseo Chamber of Commerce recognized outstanding businesses, community leaders and organizations during its 2026 Annual Dinner on Thursday, November 5, at Lavender Crest.
The evening brought together Chamber members, business owners and community supporters to celebrate the individuals and organizations contributing to Geneseo's business community.
This year's theme, "Eras of Geneseo: The '80s," brought a nostalgic atmosphere to the annual gathering, with an '80s-inspired best-dressed competition, a Guess Who photo game, a Rubik's Cube challenge and live and silent auctions.
Geneseo City Administrator Brandon Maeglin served as emcee for the evening, which included a cocktail hour, dinner, Chamber updates and the presentation of five annual awards.
Outgoing Chamber President Jenna Rushing welcomed attendees and introduced incoming President Alex Joseph, who recognized outgoing board members and discussed upcoming leadership changes. Chamber Executive Director Lindsie Akers also presented a review of the past year and a look at the organization's plans for the future.
The awards ceremony recognized individuals and organizations nominated for their contributions to Geneseo.
Amy DeFauw received the Ambassador of the Year Award, presented by Rushing, recognizing her continued involvement in Chamber activities and community events.
DeFauw was recognized for helping introduce the Wine Walk in 2026 and for her involvement in bringing back State Street Market following a hiatus. She originally helped establish the market in 2016.
As a local business owner and Chamber member, DeFauw has contributed time and energy toward developing events and opportunities intended to strengthen Geneseo's business community. Her willingness to pursue new ideas and support community initiatives was highlighted as part of her recognition.
Beth Terpening, owner of Anthology for Books, received the Rising Star Award, presented by Katie Kutsunis.
Terpening received more than 20 nominations for the award, reflecting community support for her work in developing Anthology into a gathering place for readers and families.
Through book clubs, children's activities and other events, the bookstore has created opportunities for residents to connect over a shared interest in reading.
Terpening was also recognized for collaborating with other local businesses on events, including Where's Waldo activities, Harry Potter-themed programming with Pegasus, an A Court of Thorns and Roses release event with Reap & Sow, and a Halloween event with Dragonfly Flower Farm.
L to R: Beth Terpening, John DuBois, Kidd Causemaker, Amy DeFauw
Her mobile bookstore, Once Upon a Trailer, has also expanded the business's reach beyond its storefront.
The Geneseo Park District received the ACES Award, presented by Jenn Johnson, in recognition of its commitment to providing employment opportunities and an inclusive workplace for individuals with unique abilities.
Executive Director Andy Thurman and the Park District team were recognized for their longstanding efforts to welcome and support employees with different abilities at the Geneseo Community Center.
The award highlighted how those opportunities help individuals develop workplace skills, confidence, friendships and a sense of belonging.
Nominators also emphasized the relationships Park District employees have developed with staff members and their families, along with the organization's efforts to make individuals feel valued and included.
Local Motive was named Business of the Year, with Collin Akers presenting the award.
The business was recognized for its contributions to Geneseo's dining scene and its ability to attract customers from the Quad Cities and surrounding communities.
The nomination highlighted Local Motive's welcoming atmosphere, food offerings and continued investment in its business.
Improvements to the building, the addition of a patio, an expanded menu and a liquor license were among the developments recognized during the presentation.
John DuBois received the Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by Brett Decker, honoring more than three decades of leadership at Central Bank and his longstanding commitment to the Geneseo community.
Throughout his career, DuBois has supported the Chamber and numerous community organizations through financial contributions, employee involvement and ongoing partnerships.
His nomination emphasized his steady leadership and willingness to support local organizations, including during challenging periods.
With DuBois planning to retire in January 2027, the award recognized his years of service to Central Bank and the broader Geneseo community.
In addition to the awards, the evening featured a live auction led by Jana Stenzel, a silent auction and the announcement of winners from the Guess Who game.
The annual dinner also provided an opportunity to recognize the Chamber's board members, volunteers, sponsors and donors whose contributions support the organization's work throughout the year.
The celebration highlighted the role local businesses, community organizations and individual volunteers play in supporting Geneseo's economic and civic life.
