Habaneros Mexican Grill & Cantina to Open in Geneseo

Jim Kelly
Henry County Economic Development Director
RRLF Loan Administrator
July 2, 2024

Habaneros Mexican Grill & Cantina in Moline will open a new location in Geneseo, Henry County, Illinois, in the Oakwood Avenue strip mall. The expected opening date is October, 2024. Josue Sanchez, member/manager of Cruz Enterprises, LLC, which owns Habaneros, has been operating his restaurant in Moline, Illinois at the South Park Mall since 2015. He identified a perfect location to expand his business to Geneseo, leased the space, and started the build-out for the new restaurant. This includes framing the electrical room, framing the office and bar, a complete floor installation throughout the space, plumbing work, new restaurant-grade equipment, and a complete kitchen build-out. Josue has run the South Park restaurant since 2017 and has excellent experience in the service industry. The Henry County Board has partnered with BankORION and Henry County RRLF, teaming up to finance the new restaurant. Henry County recently approved a $50,000.00 loan from its Rural Revolving Loan Fund, with the project creating five full-time and six part-time jobs on the site, as well as an on-site local Manager.

The Henry County Rural Revolving Loan Fund Program (RRLF) operates two separate funds and has made 95 loans totaling $6.1 million on our legacy fund, and 38 loans totaling $1.4 million from our economic development fund, which have in return created and retained a combined 1,515 jobs in the Henry County, Illinois work force. The RRLF monies are available to any new or existing business within Henry County. For more information on the Henry County

RRLF Programs contact Jim Kelly, Henry County Economic Development Director and RRLF Loan Administrator, at the Henry County Courthouse, (309) 937-3410

Geneseo Middle School - Second Semester Honor Rolls

First Honor Roll - GPA of 3.50 to 4.40

8th Grade

Raidyn P. Allison, Stella R. Allison, Piper M. Andersen, Claudia J. Angelo, Katherine H. Barickman, Landon L. Barnett, Layna Z. Bassett, Luke Z. Bedford, Lillian J. Bellagamba, Evan C. Bender, Tivya R. Bernier, Fritz E. Bolme, Allison M. Boone, Braxton W. Boone, Kanon J. Boster, Makayla R. Bros, Alivia J. Brown, Jaylee A. Brudos, Nolan J. Burton, Rylan R. Carlson, Sophie L. Carter, Lydia G. Carton, Quinn F. Cherry, Taeton P. Chirchir, Ella K. Clementz, Cole T. Clifton, Ellah R. Clifton, Harrison M. Conley, Elijah A. Coppejans, Brayden D. Cox, Mallory A. Daniels, Evelyn M. DeBaene, Emilie A. DeCastecker, Madelyn S. DeJohn, Olivia E. DeSplinter, Bryce M. Diehl, Isla D. Disterhoft, Sophia P. Doyle, Riley J. Dwyer, Camryn N. Ebert, Megan A. Ehlert, Kamee A. Eighmy, Mason W. Emerick, Brycen E. Fahnestock, Andrew M. Feely, Phoenix B. Ferro-Heller, Jasmine M. Foss, Jackson T. Frank, Carter A. French, Gretchen A. Fuelling, Hannah M. Fuelling, Jacey L. Gehl, Gavin M. Gillespie, Karlee C. Hankins, Vance B. Hansen, Kade M. Heilman, Kaylin A. Heller, Cole T. Henson, Skylar M. Hileman, James H. Hill II,I Madelyn M. Holmes, Cameron J. Jansen, Annibelle M. Juarez, Austen C. Kane, Anabella V. Kelley, Noah J. Klick, Penelope A. Kline, Lilah J. Klotz, Mayson J. Lambin, Isabella L. McConville, Raygen M. McKeag, Jillian N. McMahil,l Ian J. McShane, Addison C. McSparin, Catalina J. Meis, Faith N. Mierop, Alice M. Miller, Natalie R. Minnaert-Yocum, Ainsleigh K. Misfeldt, Madison J. Morrison, Keelie M. Mueller, Quin R. Nichols, Micah J. Nicke, Anastasia M. Pitsoulakis, Aleksie F. Possin, William Rankins, Colin M. Roemer, Ida G. Rowold, Ella J. Schaaf, Meghan M. Scheider, Dylan J. Schneider, Brooklyn J. Schnowske, Jaxson J. Seals, Ella R. Shannon, Madelyn E. Sherman, Alyssa C. Simpson, Maycie L. Sims, Stella M. Smith, Addison K. Snell, Sophia G. Snell, Sydney M. State, Addilyn G. Swan, Ella C. Taylor, Keiran L. Thornburg, Luca J. Turigliatti, Kellen E. VanKerrebroeck, Eden P. VanOpdorp, Patrick J. Versluis, Kailee L. Von Motz, Nicole E. Werling, Jayden C. Wheaton, Hannah M. Wildemuth, Sage R. Windisch, Peyton A. Woodruff

7th Grade

Jocelyn A. Aguirre, Paisley J. Arnold, Avery K. Bagby, Jocelyn M. Bagby, Alex F. Balensiefen, Ella M. Bernhard, Anna G. Berry, Daphne M. Bertelsen, Hannah E. Billingsly, Boston J. Brewer, Leila M. Bries, Peyton L. Brodie, Dia R. Bros, Charlee A. Bruce, Annika R. Brumbaugh, Helo J. Castro, Ashlynn G. Chamberlain, Leah M. Cooper, Alexander R. Darnall, Gavin P. Davis, William A. Davis, Christian R. Dawson, Ellaina F. DeLoose, Henry M. Dwyer, Brenna Dykstra, Kyle M. Everett, Sawyer J. Forsythe, Landon A. French, Eleanor M. George, Bryce R. Gillespie, Maci L. Gorman, Ava L. Graham, Hailey R. Griswold, Daegan J. Hansen, Owen M. Harri,s Karoline M. Hasson, Kenzi J. Hasson, Lyla H. Henry, Emmett W. Hill, Emma J. Hofer, Hunter G. Hoover, Easton R. Hornback, Anthony J. Jackson, Ellie J. Jackson, Owen M. Jacobi, Brynn R. Kinney, Collin P. Kreiss, Madison G. Kuethe, Faith H. Kuster, Zebin Lin, Katherine A. Maloy, Chloe J. Mance, Liliana R. Marshall, Wyatt J. Mickley, Gibson M. Minard, Emma E. Minnaert, Tad R. Moore, Kasen J. Mosier, Paul M. Nelms, Katrina G. Nerud, Suzanne L. Neumann, Mia G. O’Dell, Isabella A. Ong, Jackson P. Parker, Henry A. Pratt, Annie C. Reed, Payton L. Riffe, Eve M. Robb, Brooke N. Robinson, Isaac J. Ropp, Cormac J. Round, Olivia L. Ruby, Jocelyn M. Russelburg, Novak B. Ryerson, Reese G. Schaaf, James W. Seals, Blazen J. Sellers, Chelsea R. Shamblin, Mark H. Shoemaker, Paige A. Sides, Benjamin C. Simosky, Kinley M. Smith, Jack A. Snook, Milla W. Stewart, Genevieve V. Talley, Ethan B. Temperley, Allison G. Tice, Garrett R. Tranel, Sophia I. Urquiza, Jaxson R. VanAntwerp, Payton N. Vanzuiden, Ella M. Versluis, Khloe R. VonHolten, Charlize A. Wachtel, Lucy C. Walck, Molly D. Wannemacher, Ashlyn M. Werthmann, Lilly M. Wilshusen, Giana M. Wurslin, Levi J. Wyffels, Jett F. Znamenacek

6th Grade

Kynlee G. Adam, Penelope M. Aukee, Lincoln Babcock, Lilith R. Ballard, Delia J. Bellagamba, Kenneth M. Bernhard JR., Mason D. Bess, David M. Betcher, Zachary L. Blank, Kobe T. Britton, Reegan R. Brown, Harmonie R. Burk, Drake M. Burton, Liam M. Campos, Eliana H. Charlet, Ryan M. Coleman, Colton M. Crutcher, Hattie R. Deaner, Finley A. DeSplinter, Sofie F. Diebold, Joshua A. Diehl, Cameron P. Doyle, Ella L. Driskel,l Kieran A. Efflandt, Will E. Ehlert, Tatum W. Eiselstein, Kameron R. Floming, Jason S. Flondor, Lillian C. Fritz, Lucas M. Fuelling, Alivia N. Gaines, Brady H. Garard, Thomas W. Gaskey IV., Sophia G. Gluck, Lily G. Green, Audreyana Grove, Drew M. Hagerman, Huxley O. Haley, Sean P. Haley, Maddison G. Harris, Addyson R. Havill, Emily F. Hayes, Evelyn R. Hemphill, Kura L. Henson, Ella A. Hepner, Ethan A. Hepner, Brooke N. Herington, Canon W. Hudson, Maverick X. Hull, Ella R. Johnson, Aislyn S. Kane, Jayden L. Kelley-Leach, Addison I. Kelly, Korah E. Klotz, Olivia M. Krause, Norah D. Kuddes, Carter J. Lampe, Gwendolyn R. Lee, Hillary M. Lewis, Wyatt T. Lynch, Zane S. Matheny, Jocelynn E. Matthews, Vander E. McAvoy, Adrian M. McSparin, Elijah J. Melton, Tristan R. Melton, Jaela J. Minnaer,t Wyatt L. Murray, Brylee J. Nelson, Willa K. Newburg, Easton P. Nichols, Kamryn E. Nordstrom, Zak N. O’Dell, Hailey R. Olson, Kenryk L. Osborn, Andrew N. Parrish, Aarav P. Patel, Elle M. Patterson, Carter G. Peacock, Lillian C. Putnam, Carter C. Robb, Macie R. Rotz, Jensen H. Rubitsky, Cooper T. Sanders, Jack W. Schaaf, Emma E. Schneider, Rykken L. Schweitzer, Braeden S. Scott, Reese M. Shanno,n Kyndall M. Shappard, Seren I. Sharpe, Hunter T. Short, Ayden M. Smith, Alexander A. Soukup, Dryden B. Stokes, Jack D. Sullivan, James D. Sutherland, Skilynn N. Tarrant, Gabriel H. Taylor, Myleigh G. Thinglum, Savanna F. Thompson, Charlotte J. Vandersnick, Adler M. VanOpdorp, Lillian G. VanOpdorp, Kenna L. Weber, Cole B. Weinzierl, Rosella J. Wentz, Peyton E. Wexell, Addison L. Williams, Brooklyn S. Williams, Kyle T. Wirth, Leotho K. Woodruff, Henry V. Woodward, Sesamir H. Yearby, JR.

Second Honor Roll - GPA of 3.00 to 3.49

8th Grade

Robert R. Armstrong, Cyrus J. Babcock, Mickayla J. Bowles, Greyson F. Claerhout, Brynn K. Coats, Brinnley P. Coppejans, Lydia M. DeKezel, Van M. DeSplinter, Jack B. Drouin, Madison S. Fontenoy, Jeremiah J. Frere, Zoe J. Friedline, Jack C. Gehling Evelyn S. Gernant, Kane J. Hamer, Andrew J. Hamerlinck, Eva J. Hansen, Aiden C. Hawkins, Aundrea J. Haynes, Anadiyah M. Karn, Mikenzie J. Langdon, Ethan J. Leetch, Taylor R. Lohberg, Rayne P. Mangin, Tanner L. Massingill, Isaiah J. Melton, Evan M. Orwig, Jadynn B. Pollard, Arianna L. Robbins, Macey M. Rosholm, Titus J. Schweitzer, Kadence M. Shappard, Jaydn K. Shipman, Luke J. Snodgrass, Kyla K. Strode, Cole J. Tully, Chase M. VanDeWoestyne, Korionna M. VanZuiden, Ryan J. Waterman, Parker L. Weisser, Olivia H. Yost

7th Grade

Kylie A. Achenbach, Cole P. Anderson, Evan M. Bei,l Arie B. Blancarte, Cullen V. Boone, Alden C. Brown, Savannah K. Carlson, Knox D. Causemaker, Autumn M. Cunningham, Miles G. Curcuru, Zachary M. Davis, Davin R. DeBoef, Lilyonna L. Decker, Jacksen K. Doubet, Chazz J. Eng, Emily A. Garcia, Wesley D. Graham, Cooper G. Hudson, Clare R. Hulsbrink, Eli D. Johnston, Delaney T. Killian, Matthew E. Krause, Andrew J. Kreps, Michael G. Lawson, Isabella L. Lewis, Rylie J. Lopez, Luke E. McCann, Tylaiha M. Medina, Kellan J. Miller, Ryder J. Painter, Owen A. Pollock, Coralie J. Randall, Violet E. Runty, Faith H. Schaver, Julia R. Schnaufer, Emma R. Schroeder, Klaire E. Sikardi, Alydia M. Smith, Kais A. Sproston, Gage R. Steffes, Ean R. Tank, Grace L. Toney, Wyatt F. Vroman, Aiden M. Weishaar, Preston C. Wood, Alec L. Woods

6th Grade

Kaelyn J. Ash, Lyrin A. Barnes, Natalie A. Beavers, Allison A. Bos, Mason F. Brooks, Kellan S. Courtright, Jaxon T. DeCastecker, Grant R. Dietsch, Giovanni A. Escobar, Everlee M. Fobert, Jesus R. Guerrero, Bennett A. Holke, Charlize J. Janczak, Maddux K. Kennedy, Kinleigh J. Kiefer, Cohen M. Krantz, Hunter T. Lambin, Vanessa M. Logsdon, Alexander M. Lopez, Clara P. Mallum, Connor J. Maloy, Gage A. Mariman, Shayla A. Monahan, Adelynn R. Murphy, Hayley L. Newburg, Garrett V. Nicholson, Hunter J. Olson, Baylen M. Poffenberger, Teagan A. Price, Tessa O. Reveal, Mason L. Schaapveld, Michael Sichling JR., Easton A. Sigwalt, Mylee M. Sim, Aubrey L. Skinner, Mason P. Smith, Preston T. Snell, Henry J. Staffeldt, Madeline S. Thornburg, Noah W. Tully, Genessa K. Underwood, Easton R. Veloz, Ryker J. Vincent, Trigg J. Vincent, Caden J. Williams, Ryland A. Williamson, Aspen F. Znamenacek

Mayor Proclaims Tier 1 Water Response

From the City of Geneseo:

Due to forecasted dry conditions and to protect the City's water infrastructure, Mayor Johnson has proclaimed a Tier 1 Water Response, effective June 19, 2024. This move follows the unanimous passage of the Water Emergency Response Ordinance by the City Council on June 27, 2023.

The City Council has authorized the construction of a 5th water well for Geneseo, a project that is currently underway, estimated to be completed in November of this year. The process of completing a 5th well has been longer than anticipated, with challenges in identification of a productive water well site, EPA permitting, and land acquisition for the final selected site. Engineering for a 6th deep well is also in the City’s capital improvement plan.

Mayor Johnson points out that the most notable part of moving to Tier #1 from the City’s standard water conservation program, is that the use of lawn irrigation systems and lawn sprinklers is now allowed for only 2 days per week, per the below schedule:

Addresses Ending in an Odd Number: Tuesday & Saturday from 4am – 9am

Addresses Ending in an Even Number: Thursday & Sunday from 4am – 9am

The use of low-volume hand held applicators, such as a garden hose with a low-flow nozzle, along with hand-held watering using containers for flowers and other landscaping is permissible at any time.

The City will continue to re-evaluate the water response status based on environmental conditions and City pumping abilities as conditions change. The City would like to thank the community and its water customers for their continued assistance in this initiative.

Additional Information - cityofgeneseo.com - "Water Response"

Geneseo High School - Second Semester Honor Roll

First Honor Roll - GPA 3.50 to 5.40

Class of 2024

Jacob Adamson, Hayes Apt, Karson Banister, Braden Boone, Brooke Boone, Reagan Bopes, Emily Bopes, Russell Brown, Carter Bull, Gwen Burbridge, Rafe Burton, Thomas Carlin, Lonnie Catour, Saryna Ceurvorst, Trenton Chamberlain, Drake Chambless, Randy Chasek, Morgan Claerhout, Taylor Clark, Alexis Clementz, Daniel Coleman, Isaiah Conrad, Lynn Cotty, Morgan Cousins, Alexander Davis, Riley Davis, Emma DeBaene, Sophie DeCock, Olivia Dickey, Kelsey Dillie, Noah Disterhoft, Kaitlyn Dreifurst, Tyson Duda, Nathan Dunker, Mallory Dwyer, Addison Dykstra, Brielle Ettore, Kevin Farrell, Nolan Femali, Bretton Ferguson, Allyson Ford, Jason Foss, Abigail Frank, Jenna Freadhoff, Alyssa Gentry. Hayden Gray, Imogene Green, Garrett Hall, William Hamerlinck, Isabella Haney, Sarah Hansen, Caleb Hartman, Christopher Hayes, Bryce Henderson, Ethan Herstedt, Kathryn Hogue, Caiya Holke, Kodie Hudson, Carter Huizenga, Kobe Hull, Austin Hull, Luke Johnsen, Claire Kehoe, April Kelley, Mia Kelly, Aaron Kuster, Drew Laxton, Macy Litherland, Kylie Maertens, Corinne Mallum, Megan Malmstrom, Landon Marshall, Olivia Marshall, Kay McAvoy, Megan McClanahan, Isabella McDaniel, Brianna McGill, Patrick Miller, Adalai Mills, Connor Minnaert, Connor Mitchell, Hayden Moore, Samuel Mosbarger, Jeron Neal, Molly Neumann, Carleigh Norton, Madison Ochs, Logan Palmer, Alysia Perez, Carmella Pettit, Reed Preston, Elizabeth Ramp, Jacob Rapps, Jackson Reade, Ashley Rickey, Madeline Roberts, Leah Roemer, Ryley Rowold, Thomas Sahr, Alex Sahr, Kaden Salisbury, Bryce Sanders, Cooper Schaad, Grace Schilling, Madison Simms, Owen Skovronski, Tristen Smith, Sidney Spindel, Hayden Spranger, Joshua Steines, Paige Swain, Reese Swanson, Tyler Tafoya, Tanner Tarkington, Madison Thompson, Ella Traphagan, Amelia Vandemore, Joseph VanDeWoestyne, Taylor VanHoutte, Jackson VanHyfte, Kade VanOpdorp, Emma Veloz, Camdyn Villanueva, Skylar Wainscott, Adam Weller, Cole Williams, Ashlyn Williamsen, Cole York, & Kirsten Zimmerman

Class of 2025

Kamden Ariano, Shane Bagby, Liliana Balluff, Brooklyn Banta, Rachael Bauer, William Baum, Sophia Bellagamba, Aaron Betcher, Jackson Brumbaugh, Gage Buckallew, Madisyn Buysse, Elizabeth Carlin, Avery Catour, Tyler Chamberlain, Marley Cherry, Sophia Clifton, Dylan Cotty, Isabella Curcuru, Dru Curcuru, Elanor DeBlieck, Erica DeDecker, Ava DeWolfe, Connor Douglas, Emma Drockelman, Alayna Duckett, Grace Durian, Katelyn Durnell, Kendall Ellerbrock, Gwenivere Erickson, Addison Espe, Allison File, Mariella Fischer, Kayci Freeman, Chloe Fulcher, Dylan Gehl, Caroline Girten, Alessandro Grande, Brady Hamer, Christian Haney, Lindsay Herington, Tyler Holtzen, Sydney Hoover, Keaton Hudson, Malloree Humphrey, Leandro Ingoglia, Matthew Johnson, Lily Johnson, Preston Jones, Logan Jones, Avery Kennedy, Hope Kuster, Julia Lewis, Kruiz Ludwig, Annalise Maxwell, Katelynn McMahill, Nickalus Morris, Elizabeth Mroz, Sydney Nelson, Jacob Nelson, Kyah Newell, Bryce Nixon, Kale O Bryan, Colin Orwig, Owen Parker, Jennifer Parsons, Austin Pearce, Dylan Randolph, Allison Reade, Keely Roberts, Benjamin Robinson, Rachael Roodhouse, Ava Rusk, Marian Sanchez Sigala, Kara Sancken, Shay Schehl, Emilia Schmitt, Timothy Sebastian, Taylor Smith, Payton Snider, Addison Snodgrass, Avery Snook, Dyllan Staffeldt, Eric States, Lillian Taylor, Jordan Thomas, Kathryn VanDeWoestyne, Logan VanDeWoestyne, Carter VanOpdorp, Joseph Venneberg, Joseph Versluis, Dylan Whipple, Allison Wille, & Kailee Williams

Class of 2026

Zara Andersen, Isabella Angelo, Natalie Aukee, Eliana Barickman, Calvin Bell, Greta Bolme, Grant Bomleny, Erin Bowers, Bryson Boxell, Ava Brewer, Aiden Bries, Reid Brodersen, Isabelle Brooks, Liberty Brumbaugh, Jordan Cechowicz, Jocelyn Cechowicz, Mylee Clark, Brody Clementz, Jack Cooper, Erika Cotty, Samuel Curcuru, Anna Davis, Ava DeSplinter, Keira Disterhoft, Tyler Dowdal, Quinnland Einfeldt, Perry Farley, Landon Favri, Jonathan Freadhoff, Anabella Goethals, Breckan Gomez, Cora Gorman, Hayley Henry, Lucas Herstedt, Christopher Hill, Payton Hofer, Carter Holke, Jacob Holley, Adam Johnson, Andrew Kelly, Owen Kelly, Erik Kelly, Catherine Lehman, Karen Lester, Hannah Loehr, Emma Loehr, Tavion Mangin, Brock Marshall, Emma Massingill, James Matthews, Jackson McAvoy, Dawsyn McDonald, Hannah McGee, Cameron Melchert, Wyatt Neumann, Janey Neumann, Isaac Nixon, Reyhan Onder, Lucille Peters, Landry Possin, Elizabeth Rapps, Madison Reade, Olivia Sallach, Cy Sammons, Chase Sanders, Hayden Schaaf, Bee Scheider, Remy Sharpe, Alexander Snyder, Hannah Stone, Tucker Tarkington, Paislee Tuggle, Rafael Uguina Cuevas, Jay VanHerzeele, Quinntyn VanHyfte, Callie VanKerrebroeck, Ashton Veloz, Kye Weinzierl, Madeline Wells, Kjerstin Wildemuth, Kathryn Wilson, & Claire Yenor

Class of 2027

Mackenzie Air, Alejandro Aleman, Lilliana Anderson, Elena Anderson, Keaton Ariano, Mia Balensiefen, Jacob Berry, Eleanor Bertelsen, Annabelle Betcher, Nathan Billingsly, Grant Bjorkman, Taylor Boone, Lillian Brown, Ethan Brown, Isabella Brown, Jaydon Burrage, Grace Carlson, Kolby Causemaker, Brendan Cooksey, Callie Copeland, Phoenix Corlew, Sally-Ann DeBlieck, Claire DeGrave, Carter Dickey, Andre Diediker, Remlee Dwyer, Leah Falk, Madelyn Farnum, Taefyl Freeman, Tyler Gerstel, Hazel Harris, Keely Henry, Cheyenne Hopkey, Lambeau Janczak, Maddox Jansen, Mckenna Johnson, Micah Johnson, Trenton Kennedy, Matthew Kerschieter, Lydia King, Mckenzie Krug, Aria Mayo-Bechtel, Jack Mickley, Andrew Miller, Reese Minnaert, Madilyn Minnaert, Mark Nelms, Tyler Nelson, Lainey Norville, Esref Onder, Eli Palmer, Viola Pettit, Lauren Piquard, Carson Pratt, Natalie Reisner, Dominic Ritter, Hayley Rubitsky, Brooklyn Ruby, Connor Runty, Ayla Schultz, Nyna Schweitzer, Brylee Sheffler, Brooke Shollenberger, Reid Simpson, Brooklyn Smith, Molly Snyder, Ayama Stroh, Claire Swanson, Jeel Vakharia, Jiya Vakharia, Kaden VanAntwerp, Delaney Vroman, Lucille Wachtel, Kendyl Wassenhove, Connor Webster, Cade Wolf, Robert Wolfe, & Rebekah Zimmerman

Second Honor Roll - GPA 3.00 to 3.49

Class of 2024

Jillian Beneke, Raelyn Bjorkman, Anna Calabria, Garrett Carlson, Brayden Combs, Jill Corso, Bryce Duncan, Neal Gaskey, Jayden Ginther, Weston Graham, Nolan Griffith, Lucas Kaiser, Emmalee Kennedy, Owen Lively, Carson McDaniel, Cooper McKeag, Cole Miller, Landon Miller, Lauryn Newkirk, Celina Pena, Giavanna Ritter, Katlyn Seaman, Dylan Shipman, Morgann Steinert, Autumn Stephens, Jacob Stout, Isabel Stroud, Ella Toom, Logan Vroman, & Blake Webster

Class of 2025

Luke Abrahamsen-Collins. Mason Anderson, Camden Baumgardner, Mason Bealer, Brianna Bowles, Amelia Carlson, Anthony Carter, Jaidah Cribbs, Kaylee Floming, Elijah Ford, Kayden Fouts, Brayden Franzen, Zachary Goffe, Taylor Hawkins, Jessica Hodshire, Savannah Holley, Hayliegh-Jane Huglin, Max Johnson, Ayden Kane, Owen King, Bailey Koning, Elizabeth Lane, Aislan Leetch, Kayton Malzewski, Zachary Montez, Lilyann Mooney, Madelyn Mooney, Amber Newell, Dylan Pankey, Jack Polowy, Lauren Powell, Kaleb Rahn, Antonio Ramirez, Cooper Ries, Tristan Robinson, Cavence Rokis, Nile Ryerson, Ava Sedam, Olivia Seei, Callaghan Sheehan, Paxton Sherbeyn, Emma Skovronski, Nathanial Stees, Charlie Stetter, Leo Underwood, Hayden Veryzer, Jaylyn Wakenight, Gavin Wates, Abby Wilshusen, & Braelyn Wyffels

Class of 2026

Grady Bernahl, Brennan Brown, Aiden Brudos, Kamron Burris, Rylen Chambless, Joei Christopherson, Liam Coleman, Grant Collins, Jameson Coppejans, Matthew Darnall, Emma Dreifurst, Kaydee Eighmy, Margaret Elder, Cara Ettore, Boone Forsythe, Taber Fulks, Aidyn Gernant, Dalten Grimes, Bradley Hartman, Maria Hartsock, Jarett Hasson, Jacob Holley, Alexandria Hull, Alfredo Jimenez, Kameryn Keegan, Peyton Kies, Charlotte Kroll, Alegna Lopez, Jackie Milem, Jaiden Minnaert, Gavin Nicholson, Shrey Patel, Taylor Peterson, Michael Peterson, Meya Pollock, Jordan Ramirez, Annabelle Ropp, Nina Schmedding, Mya Splear, Izabella Stewart, Leland Stickle, Kwin VanKerrebroeck, Nick Vyas, Cameron Walker, Evelyn Wendland, & Kayleigh Wooden

Class of 2027

Flynn Arnett, Alexandra Bagby, Erik Bjorkman, Nathaniel Boone, Payton Boone, Evan Brooks, Wyatt Bruce, Evelyn Dahl, Aiden DeCap, Griffin DeWolfe, Alexandra Duncan, Jaxon Ernst, Adam Flondor, Ethan Galloway, Lilyann Garza, Tyler Gross, Kylei Hammond, Kiersten Hancock, Joseph Haser, Emily Haverback, Jeremiah Helm, Jakob Hodges, Megan Hursman, Adam Jackson, Scarlyt Johnson, Zachary Johnson, Grace Kaiser, Jack Kreiss, Delaney Lagaisse, Daniel Medrano, Jordyn Miller, Elijah Mosley, Carson Peters, Eric Polowy, Maddison Rakestraw, Brooke Robinson, Landon Rogers, Sydney Rosas, Finnegan Schaad, Kie Smith, Thomas Steele, Lilly Stubbs, Joseph Thoene, Emma Vandeveer, Vera Vincent, Jacob Walline, Landon Weimer, Avalynn Westfall, Jayden Wexell, Ryder Ryder, Justin Williams, Alexis Williams, & Kylee Wisely

Hammond-Henry Hospital welcomes Heidi Vorac to its Geneseo Clinic

GENESEO, IL - The Board of Directors of Hammond-Henry Hospital and its Administration announce the return of Heidi Vorac, APRN, to its Geneseo Clinic family practice staff. Heidi Vorac currently serves as the medical provider for Hammond-Henry Hospital Medical Group’s Cambridge Clinic.

“Heidi Vorac will be seeing all her current as well as new patients in our Geneseo clinic location, 600 N. College Avenue, beginning July 1,” said Colton Anderson, Director of Clinic Services. “She has done an extraordinary job in Cambridge, with a very loyal patient following, but the move to Geneseo will mean even better accommodations and services for her patients since they will have the services of the entire hospital at their disposal.”

In addition to the Geneseo Walk-In/Family Practice Clinic where Vorac will serve, previous and new Vorac patients will have x-ray and the full gamut of radiologic services plus emergency, laboratory, sleep disorder, cardiopulmonary, neurology, rehab, and social services, home health, long term care, skilled care, surgical, and inpatient services.

The Cambridge Clinic is slated to close on June 30 but may be repurposed within the year as the hospital is seeing steady growth and the addition of several family practice and specialty providers. However, at the present time, there is no plan to reopen the clinic office to see patients under a different Hammond-Henry Hospital provider.

“I, of course, appreciate the Cambridge community and their incredible support,” said Vorac. “The goal is to provide the best healthcare services possible, and this move will make that happen. I am excited to come back home to the Geneseo community.”

Those wishing to make an appointment with Heidi Vorac after June 30 are encouraged to call 309.944.1275. She will remain taking previously and newly scheduled appointments at the Cambridge Clinic until that time.

Heidi Vorac obtained her Doctor of Nurse Practice degree from the University of Iowa and is certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has been employed with Hammond-Henry Hospital since January of 2018.

Geneseo Farmers Market - Something for Everyone

The Geneseo Farmer’s Market is well underway with their first summer market last Saturday, June 1st.  The summer market is every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon on Pearl Street at the Geneseo City Park.  The summer market season runs from June through October.  The market takes place rain or shine. 

The Geneseo Farmer’s Market has been around since 2002.  Over the years, it has been set up at different locations throughout Geneseo, but has been up at the city park for over 10 years.  On a typical market morning, they have between 25 to 30 vendors setting up.  Many of the vendors are considered full-time and set up every week with their products.  But they also have numerous vendors who are part-time that attend when it fits in their schedule.  This allows for a nice variability throughout the summer market season. 

There is a wide variety of vendors and products offered at the Geneseo Farmer’s Market.  Part of what makes this market unique is that it offers locally grown produce, plants, flowers, and agricultural products, such as meat and eggs.  With offering only locally grown and raised produce, these products are in season and fresh.  There are cottage food vendors that sell a wide assortment of products, like breads, cookies, rolls, pies, gluten free and vegan items, and freeze-dried goodies.  Other cottage food items include local honey, fresh and dried herbs, spice blends, and flavored oils and vinegars.  Beyond consumable items, the market also has homemade craft and art products.  Homemade craft items include woodworking, sewn and yarn items, jewelry, homemade cards, 3D print, fused glass, and home décor.  Some vendors also utilize old items and turn them into something new, which is great for sustainability.  The market also has different types of art that ranges from paintings to published books.  Some vendors have products that are health and beauty items, such as soaps, lotions, scrubs, and balms.  It is amazing the wide variety of products offered at this market, there is definitely something for everyone.

The market has partnered with non-profit organizations in the past, and will again this year, to bring educational information to its customers.  They will also again help the community with those that are food insecure by donating unsold produce or asking for other donations from customers or the general public that will go to the local food pantry. 

The Geneseo Farmer’s Market is a family friendly environment that is located next to the playground and pavilion, so families and individuals can enjoy its amenities.  There are also other parks, recreation opportunities, and is centrally located to enjoy local eating and shopping throughout Geneseo.  So, visitors and customers can easily spend the morning, or day, in Geneseo.

The Geneseo Farmer’s Market doesn’t stop when summer ends, they continue through the winter with a different schedule and location for the winter market. 

To keep up with the market, they have a Facebook page, Geneseo Farmer’s Market, Instagram, and a website, www.geneseofarmersmarket.com.

Geneseo Christmas Walk Presents: The Last Lighting

May 28, 2024
For more information contact:
Zack Sullivan, Executive Director
Geneseo Chamber of Commerce
309-944-2686

Lighting the City Christmas Tree during the annual Geneseo Christmas Walk is a time-honored tradition in Geneseo. Our City Christmas Tree has served us well for decades. But the tree's health has been in constant decline for years, with an independent arborist advising that the tree is at extreme risk of failure and should be taken down for safety purposes.

The City of Geneseo has understandably made the difficult decision to remove the tree this summer. The Geneseo City Council has already taken action to invest in a beautiful outdoor artificial tree to become the focal point of our holiday traditions.

To honor this great Christmas Tree, the Geneseo Christmas Walk will be hosting a one-off event on Saturday June 1 from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm called "The Last Lighting". Geneseoans and area Christmas enthusiasts are invited to join us at The Last Lighting as we light Geneseo's City Christmas Tree one final time. We will be closing off the street at the tree and take photos with the tree, enjoy Christmas Music, holiday treats and luminaires! Of course, Santa will be on hand to help us light the tree one more time.

The Last Lighting will also feature Christmas music, a food truck, luminaries set up around the tree, and Double Treble performing Christmas Carols using handbells. It will be a one-of-a-kind summertime Christmas celebration you won’t want to miss!

The City Christmas Tree deserves a proper send-off and we are going to give it the kind of sendoff that only Geneseo can deliver. Join us for an evening of summer holiday fun and remembrance and bring the family for one final photo with the tree. It will be a wonderful evening in Geneseo.

Congratulations to the Geneseo High School Class of 2024!

Images and names provided by Geneseo High School

GHS FFA Attendance at the Women Changing the Face of Agriculture Regional Conference

By Jacqueline Walters - Wetzell
GHS FFA Advisor

On April 26, six members from the Geneseo FFA chapter seized the opportunity to participate in the Women Changing the Face of Agriculture Regional Conference held at Joliet Junior College. Among those present were Dawsyn McDonald, Jaiden Minnaert, Bella Bailey, Ashtyn Veryzer, Kenzie Krug, and Delaney Lagaisse. During the conference, attendees interacted with sixteen professionals from the agriculture industry, gaining insights into the varied paths these women took to achieve their current positions.
They received invaluable advice on a wide range of topics, including college coursework, working in the industry, and navigating everyday life. After a satisfying lunch, the girls were treated to an inspiring speech by keynote speaker Sue Schaffer, who shared her life journey and accomplishments attained through perseverance and determination.
Wrapping up the conference, attendees had the opportunity to learn about the college experience from a panel of four current college students and recent graduates. During the day, the six members gained extensive knowledge about careers in the agriculture industry and college paths. Overall, the conference proved to be a rewarding learning experience for all the young women in attendance!

Abigail Frank Awarded Richard C. Keith Scholarship

Kelly Field
IMT Insurance
kelly.field@imtins.com
515-453-0362

WEST DES MOINES, IOWA, Month Date, year — IMT Insurance, a leading Midwest provider of personal and commercial insurance products, is pleased to announce that Abigail Frank has been selected to receive a $1,000 Richard C. Keith Scholarship.

Abigail, student of Heidi Frank, an IMT agent with Hanford Insurance Agency in Geneseo, IL, is a recent graduate of Geneseo High School and will attend University of Nebraska in the fall.

The Richard C. Keith Scholarship program reflects IMT’s unwavering commitment to education and youth development. Scholarships are awarded to high school seniors, undergraduate, trade school and higher education students, who are active in their schools and communities. The recipients also demonstrate a high level of academic success.

IMT Insurance is proud to support outstanding students and their pursuit of further education.

The Richard C. Keith Scholarship program is a tradition IMT is eager to continue for years to come.

Blood Drive May 7 at Geneseo First Methodist

First Methodist Church of Geneseo is hosting a blood drive on Tuesday, May 7, at the South Annex (back entrance of the church’s south campus) of the church. The drive will begin at 12 noon and continue until 6 p.m.

Donors are asked to make reservations by calling 1-800-733-2767 (1-800-RED Cross). Walk-ins will be accepted in as timely a manner as possible with appointments taking priority. Those planning to give blood will be asked to present their Red Cross ID card (or a valid driver’s license) and will be asked to read the list of medications that might exclude their donation from being used or do a “Rapid Pass” before their donation.

For ease in donating, the Red Cross Donor app can be downloaded by searching “Blood Donor American Red Cross.” This allows the person planning to donate to do Rapid Pass the day of the blood donation and keep track of their health.

Before donating:

-1. Drink an extra 16 ounces of water, juice or non-alcoholic drink before donating, especially in warm weather.

-2. Eat a healthy meal; avoid fatty foods like fries, hamburgers, ice cream.

-3. Try to get a good night’s sleep.

-4. Check to see if any of the medications you are taking would prevent you from donating.

It’s also recommended that those planning to donate increase their vitamin C to their diet by eating fruits and leafy green vegetables, such as strawberries, tomatoes, spinach and Brussels sprouts.

Anyone with questions about donating, getting a Red Cross ID card or who would like more information, is asked to call 1-800-733-2767 (1-800-RED CROSS).

Long Chicago-Quad Cities Amtrak service impasse illustrates hurdles for new routes: Analysis

By Bob Johnston | April 29, 2024

Federal grant from 2011 set to expire in December

The former Rock Island depot in Geneseo, Ill., once a flag stop for the Rocky Mountain Rocket, in August 2020. The Illinois DOT confirms Geneseo will get a new platform as a stop on Chicago-Quad Cities service. Bob Johnston

MOLINE, Ill. — Among the 69 projects receiving Federal Railroad Administration Corridor Identification and Development Program grants last December was a familiar route: Chicago-Quad Cities.

Familiar because that route, in addition to being among the recipients of the $500,000 Corridor ID grant [see “Full list of passenger routes …,” Trains News Wire, Dec. 8, 2023], was touted in a January 2008 press release from the United Transportation Union’s Illinois legislative board director. The release highlighted the $23 million price to reestablish service to Moline and Rock Island, Ill., across the Mississippi River from Davenport and Bettendorf, Iowa.

Amtrak completed a route study in December, 2007. “The one-time investment in capital improvements and $6 million in operating support,” according to the release, would provide two daily round trips. The route would utilize 111 miles of BNSF’s already Amtrak-active former Chicago, Burlington & Quincy main line between Chicago and Wyanet, Ill., where a new connection would access 48 miles of regional Iowa Interstate’s ex-Rock Island rails into downtown Moline.

Most of the investment would restore signaling and upgrades to Iowa Interstate track that would allow 79-mph operation, and build a $6 million connection and interlocking west of Wyanet where the two routes are grade separated.

With the Chicago-Quad Cities figures in hand, the Iowa Department of Transportation sponsored an April 2008 study projecting a 58-mile extension to Iowa City. The report explored revenue and ridership impacts that varied depending on the amount of signal and track investment undertaken before positive train control became a requirement.

A map included in 2008 Iowa Department of Transportation study shows the proposed Chicago-Quad Cities route (highlighting the planned connection at Wyanet, Ill.), as well as a then-proposed extension to Iowa City, Iowa. Iowa DOT

What happened? That UTU state legislative director, Joseph Szabo, became FRA Administrator in the Obama Administration under DOT Secretary Ray LaHood, a Republican from Peoria who served in the Illinois legislature and U.S. House of Representatives. With that political firepower, the Chicago-Iowa City route was awarded $177 million in 2011 from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Meanwhile, Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn pledged $78 million from the his “Illinois Jobs Now” program and Iowa Gov. Chet Culver’s administration planned to contribute $20.6 million. But both were replaced by Republican governors who halted their investments before talks with Iowa Interstate progressed, though capacity improvements at BNSF’s Eola Yard east of Aurora moved forward and were eventually completed.

Nevertheless, the city of Moline moved forward on building an intermodal facility to accommodate trains; it and the adjoining Element Hotel opened in 2018. Iowa never showed any continuing interest.

The Moline, Ill., intermodal station, completed in 2018, still lacks a platform, tracks, and passenger trains on Aug. 6, 2020. Bob Johnston

With Democrat J.B. Pritzker recapturing the Illinois governorship in 2019, an additional $225 million in state funding was allocated to completion of the project, but the $177 million federal grant, set to expire in 2020, received an extension to Dec. 31, 2024.

With that date looming, there is still no agreement between Iowa Interstate and IDOT on the amount and nature of improvements required to launch service, so it is unclear what the additional $500,000 of planning money can accomplish other than making it eligible for future investment.

Trains News Wire has periodically made inquiries of both parties with a list of specific questions regarding costs, investment, and compensation Iowa Interstate is requesting.

In a Feb. 27, 2024, email, Iowa Interstate President and CEO Joe Parsons says, “We do remain in contact with IDOT related to the proposed Quad Cities service. However, our agreement with IDOT prohibits us from discussing negotiations publicly.”

He had been sent responses from an IDOT email that stated:

On July 15, 2016, the eastbound Illinois Zephyr speeds past the open field at right where a connection to the Iowa Interstate is to be built. Bob Johnston

— The scope and cost of Iowa Interstate improvements, including the Wyanet connection, were still being negotiated. “Once an agreement has been reached, we will be able to complete preliminary engineering on the connection.” In January 2014, an IDOT official who now works for Amtrak told Quad Cities Online that preliminary engineering “was almost complete.”

— The state agency told the Quad City Times in 2023 that improvements Iowa Interstate was demanding were “cost prohibitive,” but IDOT would only tell News Wire, “Negotiations between IDOT, IAIS, and the FRA are active and ongoing, and we are not able to comment further on the details. There is weekly contact among the parties.”

— No timeline for completion has been established pending an agreement with Iowa Interstate, but “by way of comparison, the Chicago-Rockford passenger rail project has construction starting in 2025 and service is anticipated to begin by the end of 2027,” IDOT says. Preliminary agreements between the agency, Union Pacific, and operator Metra for that service are already in place.

— Regarding the $177 million federal grant’s upcoming expiration, IDOT says, “We are working with the FRA to [further] extend the date and are hopeful we will be able to reach agreement.” A portion of ARRA funding designated for Chicago-Quad Cities was used for equipment procurement, and IDOT did not volunteer how much money remains.

Transparent information about costs and negotiation nitty-gritty has been stuck behind a shield of confidentiality for more than 15 years. The agency tells News Wire, “IDOT is not eligible to take the case to the Surface Transportation Board.” But even if Amtrak makes that attempt on behalf of the traveling public, ongoing travails from the delayed New Orleans-Mobile Gulf Coast startup aren’t encouraging.

There may be many good reasons why Iowa Interstate, IDOT, and the FRA can’t come to an agreement that has taken 16 years (so far) to reach. At this point, another $500,000 from the Corridor ID program won’t necessarily make that happen.

UPDATE - City Hall Parking Lot Resurfacing

UPDATE: The City of Geneseo, Illinois will be closing the parking lot NORTH of City Hall tomorrow morning and it will remain closed on Friday. The lot will open for the weekend and close again next to complete the project. The sidewalks around City Hall will remain open.

Starting Monday, May 29th the north lot at City Hall will be closed for resurfacing and painting. The closure is expected to last through Thursday May 2nd, weather permitting.

Nash Bean Ford & Brown Announces Comprehensive Estate Planning Workshop Series

Geneseo, IL – Nash Bean Ford & Brown, a local firm focusing on estate planning and trust administration is thrilled to announce a series of engaging and informative workshops. These sessions are designed to empower attendees with the knowledge and tools necessary for effectively preserving their legacy through means of wills and trusts personalized for them. The workshops will be held across various locations in Illinois and Iowa, starting from June 6 through to August 8, 2024.

The series kicks off on Thursday, June 6, at 6:30 pm at the Hyatt House in East Moline, IL, followed by sessions on Tuesday, June 11, at the Stoney Creek Hotel in Moline, IL, and Wednesday, June 12, at the Holiday Inn Express in Moline, IL. The workshops will continue in July, with a session on Tuesday, July 16, at the Mississippi River Distilling Co. Celebration Center in LeClaire, IA. Additional July workshops will be held at the Cambria Hotel in Bettendorf, IA, on Wednesday, July 17, and at the Camden Centre in Milan, IL, on Thursday, July 18. The series will conclude with sessions in August at Wisdom Financial in Geneseo, IL, on Tuesday, August 6, Harvest Bakery & More in Erie, IL, on Wednesday, August 7, and the Hotel Blackhawk in Davenport, IA, on Thursday, August 8. Each workshop begins promptly at 6:30 pm.

The workshops, led by the experienced attorneys at Nash Bean Ford & Brown, will cover a wide range of critical topics, including wills and trusts, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and the latest in estate planning strategies and laws. These sessions are perfect for anyone looking to begin their estate planning journey or hoping to update their existing plans. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and receive personalized advice tailored to their unique situations. They will also be able to sign up for a free estate planning consultation with their preferred attorney at the conclusion of the workshop.

Space for each workshop is limited, so interested participants are encouraged to register early. To reserve your spot, please visit our website or contact our office directly. Join Nash Bean Ford & Brown for these enlightening workshops and take the first step towards securing your legacy.

For more information, please contact:

Nash Bean Ford & Brown
309-944-2188
info@nashbeanford.com
5030 38th Ave. Suite 2 Moline, IL 61265
445 US Hwy 6 E Geneseo, IL 61254

Lead Service Line Letter: Follow-Up Communication

April 30, 2024

Last week, a letter went out to many of our water utility customers concerning the Lead Service Line Replacement Program taking place in the State of Illinois. This letter was required notification language, directly dictated by the EPA, to inform Illinois residents about the risks of lead service lines in water systems. We realize that this letter was confusing to some and left many with additional questions about the program. Below is an attempt to provide some additional clarity on this program, and what exactly is taking place in Geneseo and across the State of Illinois.

Illinois’ Lead Service Line Replacement and Notification Act requires operators of community water supplies, such as Geneseo’s Water Utility, to develop and maintain a complete material inventory of lead service lines, and to implement a comprehensive plan for the replacement of those lines according to prescribed timelines based on the number of lead service lines reported in the material inventory. The inventory process started in April of 2022, through surveys to each of our water customers, as a first step at identifying the resident side of water services across town. Inventory efforts for the program will be ongoing and will continue to take place through 2027. The inventory efforts are designed to categorize each service line for the public water utility. There are four categories that make up each service line type being tracked in our inventory:

1. “Non-Lead” means a service line made of any material other than lead or galvanized material (ex. copper and plastic).

2. “Lead Service Line” means a service line made of lead or a service line connected to a lead pigtail, lead gooseneck, or other lead fitting.

3. “Galvanized Requiring Replacement” means any galvanized material that may be supplied through a lead gooseneck attached to the water main.

4. “Unknown” means a service line that is likely to be made of lead material.
   

Determination of the type of service line is based off of information sources that Geneseo is using for the project including: City of Geneseo customer surveys, construction records, plumbing records, and water department information on location and age of infrastructure in our neighborhoods. It is important to note that the receipt of a letter at this juncture in the project does not confirm that your residence is served by a lead service line. Many residences currently fall into the “Unknown” category, due to the fact that additional studies must occur over the next three years to confirm that both the city’s portion of a service line, as well as the residential side of the line, are determined to be in a specific category. Final confirmation of lead service lines is planned to be accomplished through exposure of the service lines at the curb box, along with studies of construction mapping. The City is required and will continue updating and evaluating the material inventory list through April of 2027. During this timeframe, we will be identifying more service lines via construction records, plumbing records and unearthing test holes in order to evaluate water lines.

Additionally, the City’s plan for future lead line replacement was just submitted and is currently under review by the EPA. Special informational meetings and communications will be established in the coming years as implementation of an approved replacement plan is solidified.

For additional information, please contact the Utility Office at City Hall: 309-944-6419

Geneseo City Council - Tuesday, April 23, 2024

Geneseo City Council
Committee of the Whole Meeting
Tuesday, March 23, 2024 – 6:00 pm

• Mayor Johnson proclaims his support of the Skip the Plastic Campaign. “I urge all residents, businesses, and visitors to join us in this effort to reduce plastic waste and protect our environment.” I also commend all residents who refuse single-use plastic items and celebrate businesses that are making an effort to Skip the Plastic.

• The week of April 29th – The north City Hall parking lot will be closed for re-surfacing and painting.

• The Annual Water Conservation Program starts on May 1st running through the end of September each year. This simply means that lawn watering (in ground system or remote sprinkling systems) is to take place between the hours of 4am – 9am daily.

• Spring Curbside Cleanup is May 6th through May 9th

• The Council moved forward an amendment to the “Right of Way Opening Permit.”

• The City recommends a purchase in the amount of $36, 178 for a new artificial Christmas tree to replace the Mayor’s Christmas Tree that is in poor health

GHS FFA Annual Banquet held on April 17

Jacqueline Walters - Wetzell
GHS Agriculture Teacher & FFA Advisor

With a turnout of over 120 members, parents, and guests, the 2024 FFA banquet took place at Geneseo High School on Wednesday, April 17th, commemorating the achievements of FFA members throughout the past year. FFA participants engaged in more than 16 career and leadership development events, securing the first runner-up position in two state contests: Horse Judging and Ag Sales. In the Horse Judging team were Dawsyn McDonald, Jaiden Minnaert, Bailey Koning, and Braden Fender, while the Ag Sales team comprised Abby Frank, Austin Pearce, Ayden Kane, and Joseph Venneberg. Additionally, 13 FFA members attained their Greenhand Degrees, with 7 earning their Chapter Degrees. Kylie Maertens and Joseph Venneberg are set to receive their State Degrees in June at the FFA State Convention in Springfield, IL. The event also marked the farewell of five graduating senior FFA members, who ceremoniously retired their FFA jackets: Russell Brown, Drake Chambless, Trent Chamberlain, Abby Frank, and Kylie Maertens.

Photo Submitted

Photo Submitted

Photo Submitted

You're Invited to Attend the 2024 Geneseo Artwalk

Zack Sullivan, Executive Director
Geneseo Chamber of Commerce
309-944-2686

The 2024 Geneseo Artwalk will take place Saturday, April 27, 2024, in Downtown Geneseo, IL. Geneseo will be full of art during the last weekend of April. Geneseo has been gaining a reputation as a regional art destination, with three art galleries, a music store, a music academy, and a mural project that has brought three murals to life in Geneseo over the past two years, with plans for two more murals in 2024.

Downtown businesses in Geneseo will host art performances in stores while artists will be set up inside of the former Four Seasons Outlet building (located at 120 S. State St. in Downtown Geneseo) featuring original works and live art demonstrations such as painting, sculpting, wood-working and more. Live music and interactive exhibits will also be featured. Many local students and artists will be on hand to share their art with guests of the Geneseo Artwalk. Shake off your cabin fever and join us in downtown Geneseo on Saturday, April 27th to help us celebrate our local art community!

For more information, please contact the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce at 309-944-2686, or visit our website: https://geneseo.org/2024-geneseo-artwalk/.

Local college student’s voice to be featured in Museum of the Bible Exhibit

Lana Shoaf
Copywriter & Communications Manager
Indiana Wesleyan University
April 12, 2024

Abby Brooks, a Geneseo, IL native, performs with our Indiana Wesleyan Chorale and they just recorded soundtracks for an epic, national exhibit at The Museum of the Bible in Washington D.C

April 17, 2024 (Marion, IN)— When local college student, Abby Brooks, took the stage to sing with the Indiana Wesleyan Chorale at the university’s March 22nd convocation, she did not know the opportunity it would provide. The chorale performed during the induction of Ranjy Thomas into the IWU Society of World Changers.

When the IWU choir rose to sing, they captured the attention of one of Ranjy’s guests, Dylan Thomas, CEO & Founder of CREATR and Songwriter & Music Director for Hillsong United. He literally turned in his seat to take in the full effect of the IWU Chorale under the direction of Master Davy Chinn.

At the conclusion of the convocation, and during a subsequent lunch conversation, Dylan Thomas praised Master Chinn for the chorale’s sound—the exact tone in his quest to create a worship-centered experience for the Museum of the Bible in Washington D.C. He wondered if the group would be willing to record soundtracks for the museum’s exhibit. Master Chinn says, “I jumped at the chance as the timing is indeed providential.” 

The choir room was abuzz as Abby joined her peers in the meticulous recording of the tracks. They corresponded via Microsoft Teams with the composer of the project, Harrison Wood, which they all felt was a huge honor. Master Chinn enjoyed the process and said, “Working directly with the composer has been a special treat as he has been able to walk us through his vision for the sound and has been able to add and alter parts on the fly as we record. He remotes into our Pro Tools sessions so he can hear what we are tracking in real time— cool technology!”

The recorded tracks will contribute to an expression of a new and exciting partnership between Museum of the Bible and CREATR. “All Creation Sings” is a fully immersive, 25-minute experience celebrating the story of Worship while engaging the senses to illuminate the timeless truths of the Bible. The exhibit utilizes immersive technology to engage the senses through video, narration, and music. The longstanding intention of this experience, and its future, means the IWU Chorale Voices will ring on for years to come. 

Abby feels the opportunity was a huge blessing and commented, “It was a truly humbling experience to be a part of this ministry! Everyone the chorale met that is a part of this project is filled with so much talent and creativity!” 

The exhibit has already received support from several key musicians in the Christian-music world. Artists like Brandon Lake, Brooke Ligertwood, Martin Smith, and KB all appear in a promotional video. Learn more about the exhibit, watch the promotional video, and purchase tickets at www.museumofthebible.org/all-creation-sings. To learn more about how CREATR could help you and your church, visit www.creatronline.com. Learn more about the IWU Chorale at www.indwes.edu/ministry-teams/university-chorale.

About IWU

Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) provides various educational pathways and nurtures students of all ages as they discover the way forward. For over 100 years, IWU has offered a Christian, liberal arts education, anchored by personal student attention and innovation, which has allowed it to grow into one of the largest faith-based universities in America. Over 14,000 students worldwide are enrolled in rich certificate, undergraduate, graduate, master's, and doctoral programs in highly acclaimed academic disciplines. Traditional students live and learn on the beautiful 350-acre IWU campus in Marion, IN, and non-traditional students acquire degrees through IWU-National & Global programs offered online and at ten education centers in Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio. Wesley Seminary, founded by the Wesleyan Church denomination and IWU, prepares Christian leaders to engage in missional ministry locally and globally. Indiana Wesleyan University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org) and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. To discover the way forward or learn more about IWU, visit indwes.edu.

Abby Brooks. Photo Submitted

Geneseo City Council - Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Geneseo City Council
Committee of the Whole Meeting
Tuesday, March 26, 2024 – 6:00 pm

Removing the Bloat

• Mayor Johnson proclaims the City will observe Junior Achievement Day on April 4, 2024
• Hydrant Flushing is April 1st – April 5th. 2024
• City burn pile opens Friday, April 5th. 2024
• Curbside Cleanup is May 6th – May 9th, 2024
• The City passed a motion to review a proposed purchase power agreement and revenue sharing agreement with RSS for a proposed solar project.