Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast Reservations Needed by Tomorrow - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   The National Day of Prayer on Thursday, May 1, will be observed in Geneseo at the Annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast. 

   The event, with the serving line opening at 6:30 a.m., and the program from 7 to 8 a.m. on Thursday, May 1, is at First Lutheran Church, 114 East Main St., Geneseo.  The Prayer Breakfast is sponsored by the Geneseo Ministerial Association and is open to all area residents. The Ministerial Association serves the entire Geneseo School District, including Atkinson.     

   The Rev. Laura Kamprath, pastor at First Lutheran Church in Geneseo, is president of the Geneseo Ministerial Association.

   Honorary host of the upcoming breakfast is Geneseo Mayor Sean Johnson.  Laity from area churches will lead prayers for the nation, state, community and world. 

Jenn Johnson, director of Inspire Continuing Care in Geneseo, will be the featured speaker at the Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast on Thursday, May 1, in Geneseo.  Tickets for the Prayer Breakfast, at $16 each, can be ordered by contacting Linda Flatt at Geneseo First Methodist Church, 309-944-2793.  Reservation deadline is Thursday evening, April 24. 

   Featured speaker is Jenn Johnson, director of Inspire Continuing Care in Geneseo.  She will share how God guided her on her journey to launch ICC, the daytime program for young adults that have aged out of special education or graduated from high school.

   Tickets for the Prayer Breakfast, at $16 each, can be ordered by contacting Linda Flatt at Geneseo First Methodist Church, 309-944-2793.

   Tickets for tables of eight people also are available at a discounted price of $125. 

   The idea for the Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast originated with the Rev. Dr. Chris Ritter, directing pastor at First Methodist Church, Geneseo. 

   Eleven years ago, on the National Day of Prayer, he and two others gathered outside Geneseo City Hall to pray for their community, state and nation. 

   “I decided then that Geneseo could do a better job of commemorating this important event,” Rev. Ritter said.  “Since our U.S. presidents convene a Presidential Prayer Breakfast with the help of religious leaders throughout the country, I saw no reason why the Geneseo Ministerial Association could not help our Mayor to hold an event on the community level.”

 

It’s Time to Dig Up the Time Capsule! - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   Calling any or all of the members and leaders of Cub Scout Pack 136 who were involved with burying a time capsule on the grounds of Cole Cabin nearly 50 years ago.

   Bruce Boardman of Geneseo, who at that time was Cub Master of Pack 136, is hoping to hear from those people who were members or leaders of that Pack and were involved with the time capsule…and any scouts and leaders in current troops “who would like to be involved in opening it,” he said.

Bruce Boardman is photographed on one of the new benches in front of Cole Scout Cabin, Geneseo, and he is hoping to hear from Scouts who were involved in burying a time capsule nearly 50 years ago on the cabin grounds. Photo by Claudia Loucks

   Cub Scout Pack 136 was sponsored by the former Geneseo Jaycees organization.

   Boardman recalled the Den Mothers at the time the time capsule was buried included Marcia Helke, Julie Zwica and Linda Scneider.

   “We had kids in our Pack from Geneseo who attended Millikin School, and some from Colona who went to the former Howard School, Boardman said.  “We decided to bury a time capsule and the boys collected all kinds of paraphernalia to put in it.  Each Den contributed.   They put trading cards - from baseball cards to Star Wars cards - and Hot Wheels cars, things that boys at that age thought would be interesting down the road to someone who might wonder, ‘what was it like when they were kids’?”

   Boardman described the time capsule as a piece of pipe about 12 inches in diameter and about three feet long.

   “I want to somehow reach some of the boys involved with that time capsule, some who have items buried in it,” he said, and added, “I think it would be interesting to see all that is in it so let’s dig it up!”

   Anyone who was involved with the time capsule, or any current Scouts who would like to learn more about it, can contact Boardman by text at 309-716-1766.

It’s Prom Time! - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current






Prom is more than a dance.  It’s a journey with many traditions, thoughtful preparations, etiquette and more.

   Prom, short for promenade, is a semi-formal held toward end of the high school year.   It’s a celebration and final send-off for graduating seniors before they embark on their next chapter of life.  Prom is generally considered a rite of passage for many teenagers in the U.S.  It marks a significant milestone in their high school years.

   The formal attire, corsages, and other prom traditions create a sense of ceremony and ritual that elevates the event. 

   Five young ladies at Geneseo High School were asked to share how they chose their dresses or outfits for the GHS 2025 Prom, which is May 10 at the Quad City Botanical Center in Rock Island.  Theme of the event is “City of Stars,” and they all said they are looking forward to Prom.

   Questions asked of the five seniors:

  -Do you set a budget before shopping?

  -Do you decide in advance whether you want a long or short dress, or is that decision made while browsing?

  -How far in advance of the date do you start looking for the perfect dress, etc.?

  -How was your decision made about the purchase of this year’s Prom dress and what was included in your decision?

  -Was there a certain color you wanted? 

THEIR ANSWERS: (Names are in alphabetical order)

MARLEY CHERRY

   “I don’t usually set a budget when I start shopping for a prom dress.  However, some online stores tend to overprice dresses that aren’t always worth the markup.  Instead of setting a number, I focus on finding a dress that feels special without breaking the bank.

Marley Cherry - Submitted Photo

   It’s kind of a tradition to wear longer dresses for prom, so I usually go into dress shopping with that in mind.  I tend to look for maxi or full-length dresses that fit the formality of the night.  I don’t really even consider short dresses for prom – it just doesn’t feel like part of the look for this particular occasion.”

  She began casually browsing for a dress in early January, she said, explaining that she scrolled online sties to get a sense of what styles attracted her…  “I don’t usually commit to a dress until around mid-March, when I’ve seen enough options and have a clear idea of what I really want.”

   This year Marley chose to do most of her shopping online and said, “There are just so many more options out there, and I find it easier to explore different styles and colors that way.  That said, shopping online comes with its own challenges.  There are so many ‘scam’ websites when it comes to prom dresses, so I had to be careful.  I knew I wanted something inspired by 90’s or early 2000’s fashion, so I started there and narrowed it down by color and silhouette.  I ended up searching a lot on Etsy and few other trusted online stores.”

   “I didn’t really do much in-person shopping because the selection is just so much more limited.  Online you can find something unique, but the downside is that it’s harder to narrow down your choices with so many amazing styles out there.”

   She knew immediately she wanted a blue dress …” It’s my favorite color and I hadn’t worn that color to prom before.  Last year I wore pink, so I wanted something different this time around.  I also took this year’s prom trends into account while shopping, I love being fashionable, but I also wanted to avoid picking something that everyone else might be wearing.

   “I ordered my dress from a shop on Etsy, and they let me submit my measurements, so It was custom-sized for me.  That way, I could avoid needing major alterations, which saved money and stress,” she added.

GWENIVERE ERICKSON

   Gwenivere Erickson did set a budget before she began her search for a prom dress, and she said, “I initially set a budget of $400, which I felt was a bit of a splurge for just one night, but it’s my senior prom, after all!  However, I was lucky to find my dream dress while thrifting for just $30, which allowed me to allocate more funds for accessories like jewelry and shoes.”

Gwenivere Erickson - Submitted Photo

   “I tend to factor in alteration costs after purchasing the dress itself,” she added.

   When asked about choosing a long or short dress,’ Gwenivere said, “Long dresses are traditionally the norm for prom, so I knew from the start that I wanted a full-length gown to match the event’s formal vibe.”

   She began looking for the perfect dress in August of last year and said, “It might seem like a head start, but prom has been on my mind ever since, and I wanted to make sure I found something special.

   “I browsed through popular online stores and even checked out TikTok to see what dresses were trending form last year. I also kept my eyes open while shopping in-person, and that’s when I stumbled upon my dress.”

    She knew she wanted a pink dress because it’s her favorite color.

   “I bought a vintage Gunne Sax dress, which suits my personal style perfectly,” she explained.  “In fact, I wore a vintage look for my first school dance as well!”

   “Comfort is important, of course, but as my Mom always says, ‘Beauty is pain,’ so I’m willing to sacrifice a little comfort for the sake of looking good.  Dancing is definitely an important consideration in a prom dress, and a strapless dress can limit movement, but a little body tape can work wonders.”

SYDNEY NELSON

   When shopping for a prom dress, Sydney Nelson admits she doesn’t set a budget, “but I make sure I am not spending too much on a dress.”

Sydney Nelson - Submitted Photo

   “I like to have a general idea of what I want before I go looking,” she said.  “Last year I got my prom dress at a local store in February, which I would consider early.  This year, I ordered mine online in mid-March around the same time everyone was looking for their prom dress.”

   When choosing her prom dress Sydney shared that she knew she wanted a purple strapless dress, “which made the search harder because it was more specific.  I looked at a lot of places online before I found the dress I wanted.   I was able to put in my specific measurements to make sure the dress would fit me so I would have to get alterations, which was perfect. 

   “I also made sure my dress wasn’t really heavy with too much material so I would be able to be more comfortable when dancing,” she added. “I’m excited to see everyone’s dress this year and I also am very excited to be able to have a fun night with all of my friends for my senior year prom!”

JESLEN RINK

   Jeslen Rink said she considers “many factors when deciding what I want to wear to prom.” 

Jeslen Rink - Submitted Photo

   “I usually have a color in mind, but I also try to keep an open mind while shopping,” she added.  “I try to follow recent trends for my prom dress, like last year I had a long dress with lots of details and sparkles because that’s what my friends were wearing.  This year however, I have decided to go with a more lightweight satin dress that I know I’ll be more comfortable in because I will be able to move easier.”

   She said she know that many of her friends also are following the trend of doing a simpler dress, “but I also think it’s important that everyone knows they can choose whatever they want to wear to prom.”

   “Picking out a prom dress is a way to represent yourself in whatever way you’d like,” she added.

    “Last year I went shopping in a store near Chicago with my Mom and a friend, and there were so many options to choose from.,” Jeslen recalled.

   “There are so many different price ranges so anyone can find a dress that works for them,” she said.  ‘I don’t necessarily have a specific budget for my prom dress from my parents, but I definitely try to keep it below $400.  My dress last year was just about $400, but this year I went with a simple option that was around $100.”

   The dress she is wearing this year is one that she saw a girl wearing on social media and she was able to find the same dress online and said, ‘I ordered it and it fits great!  I chose a light-yellow color in my dress this year because I wanted to do something different that will also look good with my dark hair.”

   “This year’s prom is at the Botanical Center, and I’m very excited to go with my friends and date,” she added.

KARA SANCKEN

   Kara Sancken is stepping away from tradition and is not wearing a dress to prom, but instead has chosen to wear a suit.

Kara Sancken - Submitted Photo

   Even though she doesn’t set a budget for her prom purchase, Kara said her Mom gave her a set amount that she would pay, and the rest would be Kara’s responsibility, “and I took that into consideration when looking for an outfit.”

   “Since I’m not wearing a dress, length doesn’t exactly apply, but I did choose to wear a suit before I started looking,” she said. “I started looking in January, but this is earlier than I probably would have looked if I were wearing a dress.”

   “It’s really hard to find a suit that fits well, especially in stores, so I focused mostly on online options, which meant I needed to allow extra time for shipping,”:  she explained.  “For the top I’m wearing underneath (the jacket), I tried looking in person at several stores, but couldn’t find anything, so I ended up ordering that online as well.”

   Even before she officially decided on a suit, Kara said she knew she wanted to wear purple…” At one point, I almost chose a dress just because it seemed like it would be easier to find something in that color, but ultimately, shopping online gave me access to way more suit options in the color I wanted.”

   Cost was a huge factor to consider, she added, “especially since there were multiple parts to my outfit, not even including shoes or jewelry.”

   “My personal style and comfort are what ultimately made me decide not to wear a dress,” she said.  “I’ve never really liked how I look in dresses, more specifically formal dresses like Prom dresses, and I felt like a suit fit my style better, and I would feel more comfortable in it.  I also didn’t have to worry about how it would work for dancing because suits are way easier to move in than dresses.”

   “As for the color, I chose purple simply because it’s my favorite color, and it’s my Senior Prom,” she said.

Michelle Gibbons to Portray Carol Burnett at Geneseo Library

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current



   Michelle Gibbons, owner of Michelle Gibbons Presents, is on a mission to revolutionize the way history is experienced.  By combining her infectious energy and passion for storytelling, she makes history come alive to modern audiences through her costume portrayals and lecture presentations.

   Gibbons will portray Carol Burnett at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 30, at the Geneseo Public Library.

   Gibbons started working as the marketing director for her father, Jim Gibbons’ business (Jim Gibbons Historical Presentations) in 2012, which blossomed into a full-time career for her. 

  After graduating from Northern Illinois University in 2008 with a double major in Journalism and English and a minor in Political Science, Gibbons worked as an editor, staff reporter, and freelance writer for local and nationwide newspapers and magazines for more than 15 years.

   Information received from the Geneseo Public Library stated, “Michelle will light up the room with smiles and laughter as she portrays Carol Burnett.  She will discuss Carol’s most famous movie and television roles.”

   “Michelle greatly enjoys working with audiences of all ages through in-person and virtual programs.  She offers presentations seven days a week for libraries, senior centers, senior organizations, park districts, townships, villages, businesses, museums, colleges, and more.”

Geneseo School District Has a New Superintendent - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current


Dr. Laura Delgado

   Dr. Laura Delgado has been named Superintendent of the Geneseo Community Unit School District, with the Geneseo School Board expected to formally approve her hiring at the next school board meeting which is at 5 p.m. on Thursday, April 10, in the School District Office meeting room.

   She will assume her role in Geneseo on July 1.

   The April 10 meeting will include recognition of outgoing school board members - Barry Snodgrass, Jackie Mickley and Karen Urick.

   Delgado will succeed Dr. Adam Brumbaugh, who has accepted a position in Germantown Hills School District, after serving as Superintendent of Geneseo Schools since 2018.

   Delgado and her husband, Rafael Delgado, have one son, Xavi Delgado, a freshman student at Loras College, Dubuque.

   Delgado has worked as Director of Elementary Education for the Bloomington School District since 2021.  From 2017-2021, she was principial of Carlock Elementary School, McLean County School District in Normal where she also served as District Library Specialist; from 2019-2021 she was an Instructional Assistant Professor at Illinois State University; from 2015-2017 she was a classroom teacher in the McLean County Unit 5 School District in Normal; from 2013-2015 was an Instructional Literacy Coach, McLean County Unit 5 Schools in Normal; from 1999-2013 she was an elementary school teacher in Ann Arbor, MI; and her career in teaching began in 1996 when she taught elementary grades in the Howell Public Schools in Howell, MI.

   Delgado’s education includes earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education and a Master of Arts Degree in Educational Technology from Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti, MI.

   She received a Master of Arts Degree in Educational Administration in the spring of 2017 from Illinois State University in Normal; and a Doctor of Education Degree, PK-12 Educational Administration in 2024 from Illinois State.   

   Her Professional Certifications and Credentials include:
  -Superintendent Endorsement, PK-12, State of Illinois.
  -CSBO Endorsement, State of Illinois.
  -Administrative Endorsement PK-12.
  -Professional Educator License, Elementary Education, Grades K-9 (self-contained, All Subjects).
  -Teacher Evaluator Training.
  -Principal Evaluator Training.

Geneseo School Board Candidates in 2025 Election - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current


Voters in the Geneseo School District will have the opportunity to vote for school board candidates at the upcoming April 1 election.  The seats are four-year terms.
   Kane Causemaker is seeking re-election to the board and three newcomers will be elected to the school board.   Current board members Jackie Mickley, Barry Snodgrass and Karen Urick are not seeking re-election to the board. 
   The newcomers are Casey Disterhoft, Tyler Robertson and Kelly Storm. 
   In our quest for information regarding the qualifications of each candidate, we put together a list of questions for them to answer, and asked the candidates to answer each question in 200 words or less.|
  All photos are submitted and the candidates are listed in alphabetical order with their responses:

KANE CAUSEMAKER (SEEKING RE-ELECTION) – Kane Causemaker and his wife Christina have a daughter Kolby (16); and a son Knox (14).
   He graduated from high school in Geneseo in 1995 and earned a Master’s Degree in Agricultural Education from Oklahoma State University.
   Causemaker is employed as Protein Procurement lead for JBS.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THE SCHOOLBOARD? – “There isn’t a profession more vital to a child’s potential than a legitimately great teacher.  Just as important is the creation and maintenance of a suitable learning environment.  After college, I regrettably did not pursue a career in education, and this is just my way of attempting to be an asset to Geneseo’s school district.”
WHAT ARE THE CHIEF ISSUES FACING YOUR SCHOOL DISTRICT AND WHAT WILL YOU DO TO HELP SOLVE THEM?  - “My greatest concern is for the students in our district to have everything they need that helps them maximize their potential in the future.  We have to manage their needs and also create a work environment conducive to quality teacher retention, all while maintaining fiscal responsibility.  We can accomplish this with sound and open communication between the BOE (Board of Education) and administration.”

CASEY DISTERHOFT - and his wife Angelica have one son Noah, and two daughters, Keira and Isla.
   Disterhoft graduated from JD Darnall High School (now Geneseo High School) in 1995; and earned a Bachelor’s Degree after attending Black Hawk College and Western Illinois University.  
   He is the City of Geneseo, Chief of Police. 
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THE SCHOOL BOARD? – “I’m running for school board to be part of an elected unified team representing the Geneseo School District area voters, ensuring our most valuable resource, the children, have a safe learning environment and a top tier education that gets them prepared for success in the rest of their lives.”
WHAT ARE THE CHIEF ISSUES FACING YOUR SCHOOL DISTRICT AND WHAT WILL YOU DO TO HELP SOLVE THEM? –   - “Sustainability of a growing district population and taking steps by looking at what could be done to make the Geneseo School District even more desirable to other families when they make the decision to relocate.”
“Recruitment and retention of high-quality staff.  We have great staff here in this school district at every building, in every unique section of the educational experience, and working with them to make sure this district exceeds in the future is something I look forward to.”
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:
   “I’ve dedicated my life to serving others, it is part of my soul and faith.  I see serving on the school board as another opportunity where I can give back and make a positive difference in this community that I love.
  I look forward to this opportunity of working with parents, staff and the children, making sure the children that come through this school district get a great education and are set up for success in their future so they can reach their goals and dreams.”

TYLER ROBERTSON – and his wife Renee have four children, Shaw (12 years); Harper, (10 years); Ryder (eight years); and Reed (six years). 
Robertson is self-employed as business owner at Geneseo Child Care LLC, a DCFS licensed child care and preschool with two locations in Geneseo; also, owner at Charming Geneseo Farmhouse Airbnb Rental of Geneseo.  He is president of Life’s Little Miracles, Inc., a DCFS licensed child care and preschool in Port Byron.
   He graduated from JD Darnall High School in 2007 (the last year the school was known as JD Darnall High School before being renamed Geneseo High School) and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana. 
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THE SCHOOL BOARD? – “My interest in running for the school board is vested in seeing our school district provide the children of our amazing community just as many great educators, role models, and opportunities as it has provided to myself growing up in Geneseo.  I’m proud to be from Geneseo and am proud that we already have a great district by many standards. 
After attending board meetings for the past year, my interest to be involved was sparked at the many critical choices our district faces, which affect and shape our community.  I consider myself very connected to our area through my own children’s activities, through church, and through my business, all of which gives me a strong understanding of the wants and needs of our community.  All facets of our community thrive when we have a great school district to build around.
   Geneseo is home to a wonderful array of early learning programs that feed into the district, and I know many of these young learners personally. I’d love to see these children continue to succeed in our primary and secondary educational programs and beyond.  The current school board has expressed the goal to not only be good at what we do, but to be great at it, and I am aligned with that vision.”
WHAT ARE THE CHIEF ISSUES FACING YOUR SCHOOL DISTRICT AND WHAT WILL YOU DO TO HELP SOLVE THEM? – Efficient and effective use of district funding always remains a critical balancing act.  Striving for improvement while maintaining balanced funding is difficult, especially with the rate of inflation we’ve seen in recent years.  To go along with challenges in funding, our district is also experiencing an ongoing, steady decline in enrollment with the overall number of students served.  Yet, our population with IEPs has been increasing and is forecasted to continually increase, which presents challenges regarding resource allocation and how to best serve this population in the future.  I believe my diverse business management experience will enable me to bring data-driven, as well as ‘outside-the-box’ solutions to the board.
   Another issue that will require further attention and evaluation is our grading scales.  Our current pilot of the standards-based program has raised concerns about clarity for parents and students and the need for a singular direction across the district is important for the progress of making successive decisions, like curriculum, to support the chosen scale. 
My goal will be to facilitate open dialogue on all issues like this one, exploring options, and to develop solutions that maximize the potential of every student.  I think it is also important to note that all issues that face the district come with many complexities, and so it will be crucial to collaborate with the board team members on solutions that benefit all students.”
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS – “Geneseo CUSD #228 will be transitioning to a new Superintendent to lead the next chapter in the history of Geneseo academic performance.  The success of anyone in this position hinges on the support they receive from the community and that success ultimately is tied to the success of our district.  Therefore, I would encourage the community to welcome whomever the Superintendent may be, and foster positive support when the time comes to ensure a smooth transition and a successful future for all.”

KELLY STORM – and her husband, Tyler, have two sons, Chambers, (seven years old); and Chesney (four years old).   Storm is employed as a commercial insurance producer.
   She graduated from Annawan High School and pursued General Studies at Quincy University.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THE SCHOOL BOARD? – “I’m running for the school board because I’m committed to strengthening our schools and supporting Geneseo’s tradition of excellence. 
With a background in community involvement and a clear understanding of the challenges we face, I want to work closely with teachers and administrators to create a supportive, high-achieving environment for students and staff.  Serving on the board will allow me to help preserve and build on Geneseo’s strong community values, district support, and outstanding leadership.
WHAT ARE THE CHIEF ISSUES FACING YOUR SCHOOL DISTGRICT AND WHAT WILL YOU DO TO HELP SOLVE THEM? – “Joining any board, I believe it is essential to fully understand all topics and issues before proposing any recommendations or changes, particularly at a time when we’re welcoming a new superintendent.  This transition presents a unique opportunity to reassess and refine our strategies to better serve the entire district. 
As a new member at this critical juncture, I am committed to collaborating closely with the new superintendent and other board members to implement the necessary adjustments and enhancements.  My goal is to ensure that our policies and practices are effectively aligned with the needs of all stakeholders in the district, thereby optimizing our educational environment and outcomes.”
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS – “I am eager to serve our community and help maintain Geneseo Community School District #228 longstanding reputation for educational and athletic excellence. I am committed to supporting our educators, administrators and coaches in fostering an environment where learning and achievement are prioritized.  I look forward to contributing to a district that not only values excellence, but also nurtures the potential of every student and staff member.”

Leslie Goddard to Portray Lady Bird Johnson April 9 at Geneseo Library

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   Leslie Goddard will present two different programs within a week at the Geneseo Public Library.

   At 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, historian and author Leslie Goddard will portray the American entrepreneur, fashion designer and socialite Lilly Pulitzer.

   Goddard returns to the Geneseo Library at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 9, where she will characterize Lady Bird Johnson.

   ABOUT LADY BIRD JOHNSON:

   It’s 1969 and Lady Bird Johnson has returned to Texas at the end of her husband’s presidency.  As she welcomes visitors to her home, she reminisces about her years in Washington, the experiences that brought her to the White House, and how she forged her own path as an advocate for the environment, civil rights and her husband.

   Lady Bird Johnson was born Claudia Alta Taylor on Dec. 22, 1912, in Karnack, Texas, in an antebellum plantation house.  Opinions differ about whether the name Lady Bird refers to a bird or a ladybug.  The nickname virtually replaces her first name for the rest of her life.  Her father and siblings called Her Lady and her husband called her Bird, the name she used on her marriage license.  As a teenager, some classmates called her Bird to provoke her since she reportedly was not fond of the name.

   As First Lady, she broke new ground by interacting directly with Congress, employing her prese secretary and making a solo electioneering tour.  She advocated beautifying the nation’s cities and highways, saying “Where flowers bloom, so does hope,” and “The environment is where we all meet, where we all have a mutual interest.”

   The Highway Beautification Act was informally known as “Lady Bird’s Bill.” 

   Information from the Geneseo Library states that Lady Bird Johnson received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1977 and the Congressional God Medal in 1984, the highest honors bestowed upon a U.S. civilian.  She has been consistently ranked in Siena College Research Institute surveys as one of the most highly regarded American First Ladies per historians’ assessments.

Leslie Goddard Portrays Lilly Pulitzer April 5 at Geneseo Library - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current


   Historian and author Leslie Goddard will portray the American entrepreneur, fashion designer and socialite Lilly Pulitzer at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, at the Geneseo Public Library.

   Goddard is known in the area for her character portrayals as Lucille Ball, First Ladies Mary Todd Lincoln, Eleanor Roosevelt, Jacqueline Kennedy and Lady Bird Johnson, in addition to Amelia Earhart and Audrey Hepburn. 

   She writes and lectures on American cultural history, with particular expertise in women’s history.  She has a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Studies and a Master’s in Museum Studies.  In addition to her own stint as a Marshall Field’s sales associate, her grandfather worked at the State Street store for 26 years, serving as merchandise manager for linens and manager of the Far Eastern buying office.

ABOUT LILLY PULITZER:

   Lily Pulitzer eloped with Herbert Pulitzer Jr., (the grandson of Joseph Pulitzer, the publisher after whom the Pulitzer Prize is named) in 1950.  The couple settled in Palm Beach, FL, shortly after their marriage.  They owned several orange groves, where Pulitzer eventually opened a fruit juice stand.  While working at the stand, she found that squeezing juice made a mess of her clothes, so she asked her dressmaker to design a dress that would camouflage the stains.  Customers loved her dresses, so she began to see them at the fruit juice stand.  Soon, she was selling more dresses than juice.  This led to her focusing on dress design and her dresses became known as her “Lillys.”

   Pulitzer became president of her own company, Lilly Pulitzer, Inc. in 1959.  The main factory was in Miami, and the fabrics were purchased by the Key West Hand Print Fabrics Company.  Here dresses were very popular from the 1960’s to the early 1980’s, and were worn by Jacqueline Kennedy and members of the Rockefeller and Vanderbilt families.  After Jackie Kennedy was featured in Life magazine, wearing one of Pulitzer’s shifts, many preppy ladies followed her lead.  Goddard later stated that the first shift dress that Jackie Kennedy was photographed in, was made of kitchen curtains. 

   By 1984, the entire clothing operation closed. 

   That was not the end of Lilly Pulitzer designs.

   In 1993, the rights to the brand were purchase by Sugartown Worldwide inc., who contacted Pulitzer in the hopes of reviving the operation.  Today, the company maintains Lilly Pulitzer Signature Stores.  The brand also is sold in major department stores such as Lord & Taylor, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. The company is now owned by Oxford Industries Inc.

   Lilly and Herbert Pulitzer had three children.  The couple divorced in 1969, and shortly after, she married Enrique Rousseau Enrique, who died in 1993.  She passed away in 2013 at the age of 81.

Geneseo High School Distinguished Alumni Induction Ceremony Is March 10

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current



Area residents are invited to meet the Distinguished Alumni from Geneseo High School at an Induction Ceremony planned for 7 p.m. p.m. on Monday, March 10, in the Joseph and Marilyn DePauw Theater at GHS, 700 North State St.      

The 2025 Distinguished Alumni Inductees:


Molly Hamer

Molly Hamer, a third-generation Geneseoan, has dedicated her career to community recreation and play spaces. She earned her Bachelor's in Leisure Studies from the University of Illinois in 1981 and started her career at the Schaumburg Park District, where she became Superintendent of Recreation. After returning to Geneseo in 1992, she served on the Geneseo Park District Board and became Executive Director in 2007, leading notable projects, including the redevelopment of the town's outdoor pool.

Molly later became Executive Director of the Northbrook Park District in 2016, where she spearheaded the "New Places to Play" initiative, including the Techny Prairie Activity Center and the transformation of Northbrook's golf course into Heritage Oaks Golf Club. Her leadership has earned her several awards, including the 2023 Illinois Parks and Recreation Association's Professional of the Year Award. Through her strategic vision and commitment to community development, she has had a lasting impact on recreation in Schaumburg, Northbrook, and Geneseo.

Cephas B. Hunt

Cephas B. Hunt, born on May 20, 1844, led a diverse and adventurous life across the Midwest and Western U.S. He served as a Union soldier in the Civil War, a U.S. Marshal in Oklahoma, a county sheriff and postmaster in Iowa, an early settler in Kansas, a farmer, and an Iowa State Senator.

Hunt's family traces back to Mayflower passengers, and he grew up in Geneseo, Illinois, before moving to Kansas and later returning to Geneseo. At 18, he enlisted in the Civil War, serving in battles such as the Battle of Atlanta. He documented his experiences in a diary, later published as Bluecoats: The Civil War Diary of Cephas B. Hunt.

After the war, he worked in various roles, including sheriff, state senator, and postmaster, before moving to Oklahoma and later California. After the death of his wife, Sue, in 1918, he returned to Oklahoma, where he lived with his daughter until his death on September 30, 1922.

John Cady Lough

John Cady Lough, born on November 22, 1915, in Geneseo, was an accomplished student and leader, serving as class president at Geneseo Township High School and excelling at Illinois Wesleyan University. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1940 and joined the U.S. Naval Reserves in December of the same year, becoming a Navy pilot.

Lough served aboard the U.S.S. Wasp and later with Squadron VT-6 on the U.S.S. Enterprise during World War II. He participated in the Battle of Midway, where he flew a final mission on June 4, 1942, to bomb Japanese carriers. His fate remains unknown, as he was reported missing in action after the mission.

For his bravery, Lough was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross, Purple Heart, and other medals. His memorabilia are displayed at the Geneseo Historical Museum. In 1944, a U.S. Navy destroyer escort, the U.S.S. Lough, was christened in his honor by his sister, Rose Anne Lough. The ship saw action in the South Pacific and was decommissioned in 1946.

Ted McAvoy

Ted McAvoy is a dedicated educator and community leader with a six-decade career in vocational education, school administration, and civic engagement. Born and raised in Geneseo, Illinois, he graduated from Geneseo High School in 1960 and earned a degree in Industrial Arts from Illinois State University. He taught at Geneseo High School for 26 years, instructing students in various trades, and helped develop vocational programs like the COOP (Cooperative Occupational Education Program) in 1970.

Ted also served as Vocational Director from 1971 to 1990, introducing innovative programs and earning an Educational Administration Certificate in 1973. He was active on several state and national boards, including the Illinois Vocational Directors Board, where he was president from 1989-1990.

In 1990, Ted transitioned to administration, becoming Dean and later Principal of Geneseo High School until his retirement in 1999. He continued to serve his community by leading the Geneseo Foundation Activity Center, Geneseo School Facilities Enhancement Foundation, and founding the Geneseo Education Foundation. His contributions to education and the community have left a lasting legacy in Geneseo and beyond.

George Pinks

George Pinks, born in Geneseo on July 5, 1921, was a dedicated community leader and entrepreneur. After graduating from Geneseo High School in 1939, where he was active in sports and clubs, he served as a medic in the Army during World War II. Upon returning home, he followed his passion for transportation, founding Pinks’ Bus Service in 1946 with just two buses. His fleet grew to 14 buses by 1948, providing transportation for the Geneseo Community Unit School District, a service that continues today.

Pinks was deeply committed to community service, offering transportation for senior residents and organizing outings for local institutions. He received the Geneseo Jaycees' Distinguished Service Award in 1977 and was involved in several local organizations, including the American Legion, VFW, and Kiwanis Club. He also played a key role in youth programs, including helping to establish the Geneseo Youth Football Program in 1958.

In addition to his local contributions, Pinks served on national and state levels, including as vice president of the National Contract School Bus Association and president of the Illinois Contract School Bus Association. His dedication to transportation and community service left a lasting impact on Geneseo.

Marv W. Peterson

Marv was an outstanding student and leader, excelling as valedictorian, class president, student body president, and a National Honor Society member in high school. He also broke school records in basketball and later participated in theater and vocal performance. At Trinity College, Marv was class president, Student Senate president, and earned Phi Beta Kappa honors, later serving on the Trinity Board of Trustees.

Marv continued his education at Harvard Business School, earning an MBA and later becoming Assistant Dean and faculty member. He went on to complete Ph.D. requirements at the University of Michigan, where he became a full professor and Director of the Center for the Study of Higher and Postsecondary Education (CSHPE). Under his leadership, CSHPE grew significantly and secured major research grants, making it the top U.S. higher education program.

Marv mentored students who became university leaders, chaired over 110 doctoral dissertations, and authored influential works, including Black Students on White Campuses (1978) and Improving Academic Management (1980). He served as president of multiple educational organizations and consulted internationally on higher education reform.

Upon his retirement, the University of Michigan honored Marv by establishing the Marvin W. Peterson Graduate Student Fellowship and the Marvin W. Peterson Chair of Higher Education. His legacy in higher education and organizational behavior has had a lasting impact.

Larry Schrof

Larry (P.) Schrof, born legally blind and raised in Geneseo, overcame early challenges with the support of his preschool teacher and thrived in the Geneseo public school system. He earned a computer science degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he was recruited by the National Science Foundation as an early web developer. His career in tech soared, leading him to a key role at Meta (formerly Facebook), where he contributed to the development of modern Production Engineering and helped establish a global industry standard.

At 24, Larry launched his own tech consulting company and became a sought-after speaker in technology, AI, engineering leadership, and career development. In addition to his tech career, Larry has a lifelong passion for music, playing the electric guitar, performing in bands, and studying at Berklee College of Music, where he became an accomplished session guitarist and wrote a groundbreaking guitar method book.

Larry’s adventurous spirit extends beyond tech and music, holding a black belt in Kuk Sool Won, a real estate license, and passing the FINRA Securities Industry Essentials exam. He has mentored students in various fields and values education and service to others. Now semi-retired, Larry lives in Barrington, IL, with his wife, Amanda, and their children, balancing his work, music projects, and family life. He embodies optimism and a belief that anything is possible.

James Floyd Smith

James Floyd Smith, born in Geneseo, Illinois, in 1884, had a diverse career before finding his true passion in entertainment. He worked as a cowboy, machinist, orange grower, and sugar factory worker before becoming a circus aerialist and trapeze artist. Smith toured the country with the Flying Sylvesters, performing thrilling stunts, and married his co-star, Hilder Youngberg, in 1907.

Their adventurous nature led them to aviation, and in 1912, they built and flew their own biplane. Smith’s experiences in the air inspired him to innovate, especially after a dangerous stunt by his wife, which led him to develop a safer parachute design. His aviation accomplishments included setting three world hydro altitude records in a Martin seaplane, earning him the Aero Club of America Medal of Merit in 1916 for reaching an altitude of 12,333 feet.

Smith was also a prolific inventor, holding 33 U.S. patents, and his work significantly advanced aviation technology and safety. He passed away in 1956 in San Diego, California, leaving behind a lasting legacy in both the entertainment and aviation fields, remembered for his daring feats and contributions to early flight.

Tim Renihan

Tim Renihan, currently residing in Washington State with his wife and two daughters, has a distinguished career in military service, law enforcement, and corporate threat management. A former student-athlete at J.D. Darnall High School, Tim participated in cross country, track, and basketball, where coaches Jeff Quick and Mike Kiss instilled valuable lessons in planning, persistence, and hard work that guided his later success.

Tim holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Oklahoma, where he was also a Big 8 Conference indoor track champion. His career began in the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division (1995-1998), where he investigated serious felonies, including homicide and robbery. He then joined the Seattle Police Department in 1998, retiring in 2022 from the Homicide and Assault Unit after a distinguished career. He led high-profile investigations into murders, terrorism, and threats against public officials, working closely with the U.S. Secret Service and U.S. Capitol Police. He was instrumental in creating Seattle Shield, an intelligence-sharing initiative between law enforcement and the business community.

After transitioning to the private sector in 2022, Tim joined Pinkerton Comprehensive Risk Management. He became a Certified Threat Manager and now serves as the Program Manager for Executive Threat Management for a Fortune 100 technology company, assessing and managing threats against high-level executives.

Donald Gene Wright

Donald Gene Wright, a 1941 graduate of Geneseo High School, was active in sports, including basketball, football, and track. He also served as junior class secretary-treasurer and was involved in the Booster Club and “G” Club. Wright enlisted in the Armed Services on July 28, 1942, and trained as a B-24 Liberator Bomber gunner.

In 1943, Wright served with the 344th Bomb Squadron, 98th Bombing Group, 9th Air Force, flying missions from Libya. He was wounded by shrapnel during one mission, earning a Silver Star for his bravery. On August 1, 1943, during a bombing raid over Ploesti, Romania, Wright’s plane was shot down, and he was captured by German troops. Despite suffering injuries, including a broken arm and burns, he survived 13 months in a POW camp before being liberated by American forces in 1944.

After returning to the U.S., Wright continued his military service as a physical training instructor before being honorably discharged in 1945. He became Henry County’s most decorated World War II soldier, receiving honors including the Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal, four Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, and a Purple Heart.