Love of Vegetables Spurs Produce Sales Business for Young Entrepreneurs

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   Fifteen-year-old Braxton Boone and his 14-year-old brother Cullen have been gardening since they were toddlers, and it is their love of vegetables that led the two to launch their own business. Braxton Boone’s Produce, on the family farm west of Geneseo.

Braxton Boone stands in front of the sweet corn in his garden.

   The brothers are the sons of Vince and Sarah Boone and their mother, Sarah, shared a favorite story of hers from when the boys were very young.

   “I took Braxton and Cullen with me to the grocery store when they were two and three years old and they begged me to buy radishes,” she said.  How many toddlers do that?”

   Braxton is responsible for the vegetable garden and his brother recently planted just over 110 holes of pumpkins that will be offered for sale in the fall.

   Sweet corn and tomatoes are Braxton’s biggest sellers, although his garden offers a variety of vegetables including, spinach, lettuce, beets, broccoli, peppers, green beans, radishes and more.  Their mother refers to the variety and abundance of plantings as “Mr. McGregor’s Garden at Its finest.”

Cullen Boone is photographed in his pumpkin patch.

   The Boone brothers have offered their produce at the Farmers’ Market in Geneseo through the years, but they now sell mostly from their farm in Geneseo.  Braxton Boone uses his face book page, Braxton Boones Produce, to advertise what vegetables are in season.

   When asked what they were saving their profits for, the answer was “cars and college.”

   Even though the gardens primarily are the responsibility of Braxton and Cullen, they do get some help from their parents and younger brothers, (Declan, six, and Holden, five) as “Mom” does the picking and freezing and canning…”We do sell a lot, but we put things up for ourselves too,” she said.  “I like knowing where my food comes from and my kids’ eat more vegetables because they help grow them.  Not a lot of five-year-olds eat beets and mine does.”

   Much of the teens’ knowledge about gardening comes from their dad as Vince Boone also grew up caring for his own garden, a trait he learned from his late grandfather, Bill Floto of Geneseo.

The Gardens

   Braxton said what he likes most about having his own garden is “getting people fresh food.  My least favorite thing about the garden is the weeding.”

   Cullen responded, “What I like most about the pumpkin patch is watering time because I get some peace and quiet from all my brothers.  What I like least is picking the weeds.”

 

First Methodist Lightkeepers to Host Annual Porches, Pools & Patios Tour - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   The Lightkeepers of Geneseo First Methodist Church have once again found some of the most inviting outdoor venues in the area for their 2025 Porches, Pools & Patios Tour.   The event will be held on Saturday, July 19, with the designated properties open to visitors from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

   The day includes a salad and charcuterie luncheon, with serving from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.  in the Commons at First Methodist Church, 302 North State Street in Geneseo.

   Tickets, at $20 per person, are available in advance at porchespoolsandpatios.com with tickets, and maps of the five tour destinations, will be mailed to those purchasing tickets online. Tickets also will be on Sunday mornings in the Commons at First Methodist, during the week in the church office, and on the day of the Tour, July 19, tickets will be available to purchase at $25 each.

   Guests will be able to visit the sites on the tour at their own pace by using the provided map.  Ticketholders will be asked to present their tickets when they arrive for lunch at the church.

   Members of the Lightkeepers Tour Committee are Suzanne Rakestraw, Barb Nelson, Chris Stahl, Deb Ward, Marilyn Bourne and Jackie Skiles.

ON THE TOUR:

  -Greg and Kim Heaton reside in a quiet neighborhood within the city limits, where they must certainly enjoy their somewhat secluded back yard which features a pool, putting green, outdoor kitchen, firepit in addition to a screened-in porch, complete with fireplace. 

  -Jeff and Jackie Jobe have created an outdoor space that speaks relaxation, from the beauty of the blooming perennials that line the paved walkway leading to the gate of the pool area, which includes an outdoor kitchen, conversation area around the fireplace, swimming pool and coy/goldfish pond.  A beautiful array of flowers and limestone designs complete the setting.

  -Lona Pribble has agreed to share her backyard haven, which has been her passion for more than 50years.  She has created a botanical dream behind her house, located across from the Geneseo Swimming Pool.  The pathway leading to the back yard was created with 8,000 bricks put in place by Lona’s late husband, Ray Pribble.  The many Conifers and plantings are the back drop to a playhouse, fairy gardens, ponds with fish and a seating area within a pavilion.  The entire garden is accented with a large center island of giant Hosta’s anchored by gigantic oak trees.

-Shadow Lake Wedding Venue, located off Illinois Route 92, just east of the Antique Engine and Tractor Association showgrounds, is a breathtaking site, as it graces the shores of the Rock River, with a special wedding arch and area near the water.  The location has been used to host weddings, graduation parties, class reunions, showers and even concerts.  The train car, situated in front, servs as a unique restroom.  Shadow Lake Venue is open from May-October and their website is www.shadowlakevenue.com.

 -Tim and Kelly Yager have designed the grounds of their working farm with a touch of class, from the landscaping the three-level limestone featured decks in back.  Both Tim and Kelly grew up in Geneseo, and after 22 years of “city” life, they returned “home,” and have built their sprawling house on the farm ground where Tim’s grandparents lived, just outside of Geneseo on Illinois Rt. 82.  The scenery at the Yager farm is breathtaking during each season of the year.

 

Geneseo Chamber of Commerce Announces 2025 Cruise the Canal Tours

Zack Sullivan
Executive Director
zsullivan@geneseo.org

Photo courtesy of Geneseo Current

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

 

Ice Cream Social on July 8 to Benefit Henry County Humane Society, Geneseo Shelter

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   Linda VanDerLeest, left, holding “Tinsel Tail,” and Jamie DeSplinter with “Ely,” are hoping area residents join them at the upcoming Ice Cream Social from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, July 8, in Geneseo City Park.  All proceeds will benefit the Henry County Humane Society, Geneseo Shelter, which is in need of support to care for the high number of dogs, cats, and kittens making their home at the shelter.  VanDerLeest is president of the board of the HCHS Geneseo Shelter and DeSplinter is vice-president.  Donations also are appreciated and can be sent to Henry County Humane Society, Geneseo Shelter, at 14606 Roos Hill Rd, Geneseo, IL 61254.  For more information about adoption, foster care, visitors, volunteers, and donating, contact the Geneseo Shelter at 309-944-4868.  Music will be provided by the Miracle Blue Grass Band.
Photos by Claudia Loucks

 

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.”

Brad Solberg to Return to Hammond-Henry Hospital as Interim CEO

Contact: Stephanie DeMay, Marketing Manager
Email: stephaniedemay@hammondhenry.com
Phone: 309.944.9169

Geneseo, IL - The Board of Directors of Hammond-Henry Hospital in Geneseo announces the appointment of a new Interim CEO Bradley Solberg, MHA, formerly of Geneseo, effective February 12.

Mr. Solberg previously served as Hammond-Henry Hospital’s Chief Executive Officer during the years of 2001-2014. During his tenure, Mr. Solberg led the hospital through three major construction projects, the most recent one valued at $23 million, constructed over a 30-month period, and completed in December 2012.

Mr. Solberg left the area to serve as President of OSF HealthCare Saint James-John W. Albrecht Medical Center in Pontiac, IL. He has since served as Interim President of OSF HealthCare Sacred Heart Medical Center, Danville, and in the past has served in various hospital leadership roles in Ohio, Michigan, and North Dakota.

“As many remember, Brad is a dynamic leader, dedicated to the health and welfare of this and any community he serves,” said Doug Ford, HHH Board Chairman. “I am happy he has decided to assist us in this transition as our Interim CEO.”

Mr. Solberg will be responsible for directing all internal operations at Hammond-Henry Hospital, while ensuring that high quality and cost-effective health care continues to be delivered to patients.

Solberg is an active member in the American College of Healthcare Executives. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration/Healthcare Administration at Concordia College in Moorhead, MN, and received his Master's Degree in Healthcare Administration from the University of Minnesota.

Village Home Stores Purchased By Geneseo Locals With Eyes on the Future

New owners have familiar faces as a thriving small business rooted in Geneseo steps into a new chapter.

Collin Akers(left) and Adam Hoste. New owners of VIllage Home Stores.

Geneseo, IL - On January 21, 2025 Village Home Stores was purchased by Adam Hoste and Collin Akers. Previous co-owners Rob and Jim Ries will remain for a few coming months as the team transitions into new ownership. Adam Hoste has already been on staff for 6 years and has been operating as the Store Manager at Village for 3 years ahead of this purchase. Village Home Stores will continue to serve their clients during the handoff and there will be no delays or pauses for current projects or products on order. Customers of Village should expect to see no immediate changes to their shopping experience as the baton is passed along to the new owners. Adam and Collin are excited to introduce new ideas and systems into the already thriving business over time.

“I’m very excited to join the Village team where integrity, professionalism, and honesty radiate through everyone. Growing up in Geneseo, I’ve always cared deeply about this community and am grateful for the opportunity to join an organization that makes such a positive impact.” -Collin Akers

“Over the past six years at Village Home Stores, I’ve learned that success in the remodeling business comes from two core principles: doing what you say you’re going to do and delivering at the highest level. That’s exactly what you can continue to expect from the team at Village Home Stores. Collin and I are excited to build on this foundation and look forward to many more years as a trusted staple in this community.” -Adam Hoste

The Village Home Stores story began in 1984 when Art Ries opened Village Hardware in Cambridge, Illinois. Offering multiple categories of products in one location. In the Summer of 1998, Art’s sons Rob and Jim Ries opened the doors of Village Maytag at the current location on State Street in Geneseo offering appliance sales and repair service to the region. In 2000 the store expanded to include Village Cabinetry. Over the years, Village has added many departments, each staffed with experts including a complete kitchen and bath remodeling team with remodel project management services. Village also has a dedicated team that works alongside home builders and customers who are building a new home in the area. Growth and customer interest in all of these services over the years has formed the one-stop-shop showroom experience now offered to Village Home Stores customers. Village serves new home and remodel customers in a large region of surrounding cities to Geneseo including the extended Quad Cities area.

The award-winning showroom in downtown Geneseo offers appliances, appliance service, cabinetry, countertops, lighting, window treatments, flooring, and wall tile as well as complete kitchen and bath remodels all from one location with warehouses also located in Geneseo. You can see their portfolio of work online at houzz.com/pro/villagehomestores and watch their weekly TV show locally every Sunday morning at 10:30am on WQAD News Channel 8 or stream anytime at youtube.com/villagehomestores Village is open Mon-Fri 9a-5p and Saturdays from 9a-noon. Open online anytime at villagehomestores.com

[Image attached: Collin Akers (left) and Adam Hoste (right) the new owners of Village Home Stores.

Press Contact: Elizabeth Round | Marketing + Content Manager  | 309.944.1344 | elizabeth@viillagehomestores.com

Hines Named Park District Recreation Program Specialist

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Nathaniel Hines has been named full-time Recreation Program Specialist for the Geneseo Park District.

Hines has been employed by the Park District since May of 2015, starting work in the concession stand and then expanding his role to include lifeguarding, swim instruction, desk attendant, building supervisor and working in special events, general programs, and countless other areas over the years.

He is a graduate of Western Illinois University, Macomb, where he earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Recreation, Park, and Tourism Administration, with a minor in Human Resource Management.

In his new role as Recreation Program Specialist, Hines will oversee the planning, implementation, and supervision of a broad range of recreational activities and events. His primary working hours will be in the afternoons and evenings, with variations based on program needs.

A statement from the Park District said, “With his diverse experiences and educational background, Nathaniel is uniquely qualified to enhance and expand the recreation programming for our community.”

Geneseo Community Chest Distributes Funds - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Just over $90,000 was collected by the Geneseo Community Chest in its 2023-2024 fiscal year, and $92,700 recently was distributed to various organizations which are:

-Lunchbox, Aisle of Flags, Geneseo Growth & Development; Ag in the Classroom (Farmer Bureau), Alternatives for the Older Adult, Inspire Continuing care, Freedom House, Geneseo Marriage & Family Counseling, Abilities Plus, Boy Scouts, Center for Youth & Family Services, Braveheart Henry County Advocacy, Geneseo Historical Museum, Sol’s Legacy, Henry County Youth Services, Rebuilding Together, Royal Family Kids’ Camp, Girl Scouts, Good Shepherd Foundation, Hillcrest Home and the Henry County Humane Society, Geneseo Shelter.

Bethany Winkleman, vice president of the Geneseo Community Chest Board, expressed appreciation from the Community Chest board to the community for their support and said, “One of the many reasons that our family decided to move back to Geneseo was due to the amazing support, generosity, and true love for this town.  We thank the community for a wonderful 2024 and look forward to funding more needs in 2025!"

The Henry County Humane Society, Geneseo Shelter, is among the organizations receiving contributions from the Geneseo Community Chest. In the photo are, from left, Taunya McGee, president of the Geneseo Community Chest board; Jamie DeSplinter, board member of the Henry County Humane Society; and Bethany Winkleman, vice president of the Community Chest board. In addition to McGee and Winkleman, other officers of the Community Chest board are Jackie DeSpain, treasurer; and Jenna Rushing, secretary. Photo by Claudia Loucks

SOME HISTORY OF THE GENESEO COMMUNITY CHEST AND HOW TO HELP:

The Geneseo Community Chest was incorporated in 1943 and each year it reaches out to financially aid non-profit organizations that improve the quality of life in the Geneseo area.

The 15-member board of directors of the Geneseo Community Chest each year obtains funds to help support non-profits in the Geneseo area.

When the local Community Chest was organized in 1943, there were nine board members whose task it was to solicit funds to aid charitable, philanthropic and character-building non-profit organizations in the community to benefit its citizens. In 1983, the organization secured 501 (c3) status ensuring that donations made to the organization would be tax deductible.

Since 1983, the board has increased to the current 15 members it has today, all volunteers giving of their time and talents.

Board members meet with organizations to review their needs and then solicit funds through a community-wide campaign.

Community Chest receives its donations from foundations, such as the Geneseo Foundation, the Miller Foundation, local businesses, and from many area citizens. The organization utilizes Birdies for Charity to maximize donations to help fund requests.

The Geneseo Community Chest annually solicits funds.

Donations are accepted throughout the year and information on how to contribute is available at the website: www.//geneseocommunitychest.org.

Dave Smith no Longer Hammond-Henry Hospital CEO

The Hammond-Henry Hospital Board of Directors have announced that Dave Smith is no longer the organization’s Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.  

Jodie Criswell, Chief Financial Officer, has been named interim CEO.  Criswell has been with the organization for 14 years.  

The Board of Directors is seeking other candidates to fill the permanent role.

We will have more information when it’s available.

Henry County Humane Society – Geneseo Shelter Needs Help! - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Geneseo Shelter is full and the board of directors and volunteers at the shelter are asking for help in caring for the animals without permanent homes.

In a recent conversation with Linda VanDerLeest, tears filled her eyes when asked about the local shelter.

VanDerLeest is president of the board of the Henry County Humane Society, Geneseo Shelter, and she deeply cares for the furry friends who make their home there.

“We are full and we are struggling to keep up financially, and we simply cannot keep up with expenses,” she said. “Our costs have escalated due to the increased overall expenses.”

Linda VanDerLeest, president of the board of the Henry County Humane Society, Geneseo Shelter, with two of the nearly 100 cats and kittens making their home at the Geneseo Shelter. Photo by Claudia Loucks

VanDerLeest estimated that it takes $22,000 to $25,000 each month to keep the doors open at the shelter….”Those are costs for salaries, cleaning, food, utilities and more,” she said.

“Even though the monthly operating expenses of the shelter have increased, the available operating funds are down 63 percent compared to this time in 2021, she added.

The shelter now has 96 cats and kittens and 13 dogs making their home at the shelter, and that does not include the 16 cats and kittens in foster care and the five dogs in foster homes. Even though that many furry friends are in foster care, it is the responsibility of the Geneseo Shelter to cover the cost of their care.

‘We are using 11 rooms to care for the animals,” VanDerLeest said, and explained that some gathering areas and greeting spaces have now been converted into rooms for the animals.

“The Geneseo Shelter is not a taxing body so we do not receive any government funding,” she said. “We rely entirely on financial donations and we just aren’t receiving what we need.”

“During Covid, we nearly emptied the shelter because people were adopting the animals then and now we are seeing an increase in surrenders, when the animals are being returned to the shelter or left at the shelter for the first time because the pet owner can no longer afford to keep them. Our monetary donations have not increased, but the number of animals we are caring for has increased substantially, and we just can’t continue like this.”

And it isn’t just the need of financial help, VanDerLeest said there continues to be a need for dependable volunteers, and she added, “When you volunteer at an animal shelter, you’re helping to make your community a place for animals, and you are also helping to raise awareness about the importance of animal welfare, which also benefits the entire community.”

“We are asking the community to consider making monetary donations to the shelter this Christmas,” she said. ‘Your end of the year tax deductible donation to the shelter will ensure we can continue to care for our animals. Thank you!”