Women’s Health Series Luncheons Begin Sept. 25

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   Knowledge can lead to many benefits, according to members of the Community Benefits Committee at Hammond-Henry Hospital in Geneseo.

   Jan Sellman, left, and Linda Storm, representing the Women’s Health Committee at Hammond-Henry Hospital, invite area residents to the Thursday, Sept. 25, program of the Women’s Health Series, sponsored by Hammond-Henry Foundation Community Benefits Committee.  The program, “Pre-Diabetes,” will be presented by Chad Martens, MD, of Hammond-Henry Hospital Geneseo Medical Group in the Geneseo Community Center, Activity Rom.    Photo by Claudia Loucks

    The Women’s Health Series is sponsored by the committee which is an extension of the Hammond-Henry Hospital Foundation.  Jan Sellman and Linda Storm serve as co-chairpersons of the committee.

   The 2025-2026 program series begins its season on Thursday, Sept. 25, with a program, “Pre-Diabetes,” to be presented by Chad Martens, MD, of Hammond-Henry Hospital Geneseo Medical Group. 

   The monthly health series luncheon meetings are from 12 to 1 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of each month, from September through May, with the exception of December, at the Geneseo Community Center Activity Room, 541 East North St., Geneseo.  Cost is $12 per person, payable at the meeting.

   Reservations are due by Thursday, Sept. 18, and may be made by calling the Hospital Foundation office, 309-944-9112, or by email at hhhfound@hammondhenry.com.  As a caterer is being used, walk-ins are not guaranteed a meal and reservations are required to secure a meal.  Guests are welcome to arrive at the luncheon events any time after 11:15 a.m.

   The series of programs began in 2003 in an effort to help educate the community, according to Katie Orwig, Hammond-Henry Hospital Foundation manager.  Program topics are selected by members of the Community Benefits Committee. 

   “At that time, the sessions were for both men and women, and men are still welcome, but it seems that we focus more on women’s topics because they are the primary caretakers of the family,” she said.

   The women’s sessions led to establishing a men’s health series in 2013 where health topics for men are presented four times each year at 7 a.m. in the hospital conference room.

   In addition to the programs being educational, Orwig said they are also a social time.  “Beyond what they learn, they also view the time as a social outing and look forward to visiting with other people who attend,” she said.

   “The programs are a means for us to let people know about services offered at Hammond-Henry,” Orwig said.  “I have often heard remarks such as, ‘I had no idea that was offered at the hospital.’…I also think the people who attend the programs are in a more comfortable setting to ask questions of the presenters.”

   “It is a fun way to learn,” she added.

   Orwig said feedback is gathered at the programs, asking those in attendance to submit ideas.  These ideas are reviewed by the committee and a list of topics is chosen for the upcoming year…”We have never run out of topics,” she said.

   The 2025-2026 programs:

  -Sept. 25 – Pre-Diabetes.
  -Oct 23 – Swallowing/Speech Therapy.
  -Nov 19– (THIRD WEDNESDAY) – Chiropractic Care/Dry Needling.
  -Dec – No Program
  -Jan 22, 2026 – Balance and Vertigo.
  -Feb 26 – Incontinence.
  -March 26 – Bemer.
  -Apr 23 – Orthopedic Surgeon.
  -May 28 – Infusion.

Antique Engine & Tractor Working Farm Show Opens Friday and Runs Through Sunday

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   James Krieger, president of the Antique Engine & Tractor Association, stands by a Russell tractor this is reported to be the “only one known in existence.”  The tractor will be displayed in the Timber Frame Barn at the 64th Annual Working Farm show which begins Friday, Sept. 12, and continues through Sunday, Sept. 14. 

Every year the Antique Engine & Tractor Association show features a different brand of antique engine and/or tractor. This year the group will showcase “The Lesser Known” for the group’s 64th Annual Working Farm Show, which will be held Friday, Sept. 12, through Sunday, Sept. 14, at the show grounds, north of Geneseo on Illinois 92, three miles east of Interstate 88, or about one mile west of Illinois Rt. 92.

   The Working Farm Show is a popular attraction for residents and visitors of all ages, and is a family event with lots of activities for children, including train rides around the show grounds.  Admission to the show is $10 per day or $20 for the weekend.  Children 12 and younger are admitted free.

  On Friday, Sept. 12, admission is $5 for veterans.

   In addition to “The Lesser Known” tractors and implements, this year’s show will feature gas engines, crawlers and power units, providing they are not homemade.

   Other features include AE&TA members harvesting corn and beans with mid-1900’s equipment, showing the use of horses for working a field, threshing oats or wheat, running a saw mill, plowing, baling, and demonstrating gas engines as they were used in the early 1900’s.

   The annual show gets bigger each year with over 400 tractors, over 100 garden tractors and hundreds of gas engines, plus other agricultural memorabilia on the grounds.

   The Vendor Fair at the Show will feature a variety of crafts, rug weaving, broom making, and other demonstrations.  This year there will be a Hocking Valley Apple Press operating, located next to the Mercantile Building.  The press was donated to the AE&TA by the Rob and Jeanne Ohlsen family of Geneseo.

   The entire show is handicap accessible.  Pets are not allowed, with an exception for service dogs.

   In 2010, the AE&TA moved to its current location after many years in different locations.  The 40 acres of land was donated to the Association by Bill and June Cole of Hillsdale.  AE&TA purchased an additional 10 acres to connect the grounds to Illinois 92, which allowed for a driveway from the highway to the show grounds.

   They also rent additional acreage from Orville and Maxine McCord.

   Handicap transportation is available and the “people mover” also is a convenient means to transport people around the show grounds.

   The AE&TA grounds showcase the timber frame barn that appears to have been built decades ago.  The building was constructed using age-old techniques.  Trillium Dell Timberworks, along with help from the Timber Framers Guild, assembled and raised the large building.

  About 95 per cent of the barn was constructed with timber from Illinois forests.  Even though the AE&TA barn was built with new lumber, it appears to have been part of the Henry County countryside for years.

   A food building also was added to provide seating for visitors to the show.

   The Jordan Mercantile Building was donated to the club in 2013 from Phil and Karen Jordan.  

   A train building was constructed in 2015, with labor and materials donated by the late Larry Colo, Geneseo, and Bill Cole, Hillsdale 

   A special addition is the completion of the enclosed walkway connecting the timber frame barn to the Feature Building.

   Last year, a learning center was added, which was constructed in the Feature Building and is attached to the main barn. The goal of AE&TA members is to promote and educate all facets of agriculture through audio visual training, hands-on experience and guest speakers. Funds for the Center came from grants from the Geneseo Foundation and the Miller Foundation.

   AE&TA members share a belief in preserving the historic value of antique, power-driven farm equipment, from early horse-drawn plows to gasoline and steam tractors to equipment from the 1900’s to the 1960’s.

   The Association also believes in keeping the machines running by putting them to work and that makes the group’s show unique as they use the equipment on display in demonstrations. 

   For more information about the “Lesser Known,” contact Paul Searl at 309-781-2896 or Rollo Searl at 309-781-9012.  For general information about the show, contact Chad Jacobs, 309-314-0783 or Jeff Laleman, 309-314-3625.   

  Additional information also is available by visiting www.ae-ta.com.

   The daily schedule of events – Sept. 12-14: 

FRIDAY, SEPT. 12: 

  -6 a.m. – Gates open for exhibitors.
  -7 a.m. – gates open for visitors.
  -8 a.m. – 4 p.m. – engine and tractor display.
  -8:30 a.m. – Raising of flag by AE&TA veterans.
  -9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and post parade. – 5 p.m. – children’s activities and train rides – with the exception of Sunday, Sept. 14, when children’s activities and train rides will conclude at 4 p.m.
  -9 a.m. to noon and post parade – 4 p.m. – demonstrations including blacksmith demonstrations, sawmill, threshing, wood carvers, cane press, horse farming and field demonstrations.
-10 a.m. – 4 p.m. – food stands open.
-1 p.m. – parade on show grounds, line up at feature tractor area.
-4 p.m. – lowering of flag – AE&TA veterans.
-5 p.m. – gates close.
-5 – 7 p.m.- Ice Cream Social Celebrating “The Lesser Knowns,” sponsored by West Jersey Express, West Jersey, IL.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 13:

 - same as activities on Sept. 12 with the addition of:
-9 A.M. – Raising of flag by Durant American Legion Post 430.
- 9 a.m. – noon and post parade until 5 p.m.– children’s activities and train rides.
-After the 1 p.m. parade, there will be a Kids’ Tractor Pull in the Food Building.
-3 p.m. – auction of donated items with pie auction to follow.
-4 p.m. – Lowering of Flag – Durant American Legion.
-5 p.m. gates close.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 14 – Same as Sept. 12 and Sept. 13 with these changes:

- 9 a.m. – noon and post parade until 4 p.m.– children’s activities and train rides.
-8 a.m. – 4 p.m. – Demonstrations.
- 8:30 a.m. – raising of flag – Cordova American Legion. 
 -9 – 10 a.m. – church services in Food Building.
 -4 p.m. lowering of flag, Cordova American Legion, and show closes.   

Stories from 9/11 To Be Presented Sept. 14 in Play at Kingswood Church in Geneseo

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

  A staged reading of the play “110 Stories,” by Sarah Tuft, will be performed on Sunday, Sept. 14, at Kingswood Church, 302 North State St., Geneseo.

  The play, which will begin at 3 p.m., is a compilation of representative stories about 9/11 and New York’s Twin Towers, the rescuers, the rescued, the healers, the healing, those who ran toward danger, and those who perished.

   All proceeds of ticket sale will be donated to the Henry County Office of Emergency Management (OEM).

   Information received about the needs at OEM read – “OEM needs to replace the Radiation Detection Unit, now long past its prime and beyond grant-funding from Homeland Security.  The unit not only detects radiation, but also air-quality generally at disaster sites, which encompass operations in Henry, Stark and Mercer Counties – an area of 1,683 miles, the largest such district in the State of Illinois.”

   Advance tickets, at $12 each, are available at Kingswood Church before and after weekend services.  A QR code is included with this story where ticket orders can be placed online, at $13 each.

   Due to the graphic nature of the horrors of 9/11, the performance is not recommended for children under the age of 13.  Out of respect for the actors, patrons and individuals honored by these stories, late seating will not be permitted.

   The production is directed by Jackie Patterson of Geneseo, and includes a total of 29 actors and a small technical team.  The poster art was created by local artist, Brooke Gatter.

AUTHOR’S INTRODUCTION – Sarah Tuft

   “I was volunteering in the 9/11 recovery effort when people started sharing their stories with me, saying it helped them to “get it out.”

   I was struck by the power of their stories – what they revealed about how we cope with trauma and how we seek recovery through compassion and service.  I was also struck by the vibrancy and humanity of the ‘characters’ who were relaying their experiences to me.  So, in the immediate aftermath of September 11th, I conducted a hundred interviews, combed through dozens of emails, and began writing ‘110 Stories.’  By giving voice to those who experienced September 11th first-hand, I hoped to restore dimension to an event that’s been sensationalized, sentimentalized, and politicized to serve other agencies.  I also hoped to preserve what it really feels like to witness unimaginable horror, suffer unbearable grief, and to be united with our fellow human beings in the common goal for alleviating suffering.  I’m grateful to the many people who shared their stories with me and to the many theatre artists – like you – who share ‘110 Stores’ with their community…”

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Outdoor Stage Complete at Richmond Hill with Help from Girl Scout Hannah McGee

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   Brett Lohman, left, representing the Geneseo Foundation; Mark Breeden, representing the Miller Foundation; Girl Scout Hannah McGee; and Brandon Maeglin, Geneseo City Administrator, are shown in front of the recently completed outdoor stage structure at Richmond Hill Park.  Photo by Claudia Loucks

  There’s something new on the grounds of Richmond Hill Park in Geneseo. 

   The new stage structure is a collaborated effort between the City of Geneseo and Hannah McGee, a senior at Geneseo High School who became involved with the project through her work for the Girl Scout Gold Award.

   According to Brandon Maeglin, Geneseo City Administrator, the Richmond Hill Stage Project was initiated earlier this year after many years of discussion about adding a permanent stage structure to Richmond Hill Park.

   “During the planning for Richmond Hill Park upgrades 10 years ago, there were concepts of adding an amphitheater structure to the park in a future phase,” Maeglin explained.  “As that project developed and moved to constructions phases in 2018-2019, pickleball, basketball and other court structures took priority, along with the new pavilion and playground structures that our community enjoys today.”

   Geneseo High School senior Hannah McGee became involved with the project last year when she approached city officials about working with the city on a project for her Girl Scout Gold Award.

   She learned about the Richmond Hill Stage Project when she attended a meeting of the Geneseo Kiwanis Club through her membership in the GHS Key Club.

   Maeglin offered McGee the opportunity to be part of the group for the stage project.

   “Hannah has attended all the planning meetings regarding the new facility and has brought several ideas to the table,” he said.  “Hannah also applied for a number of grants to get the project off the ground, and the project was awarded $20,000 from the Geneseo Foundation and $20,000 from the Miller Foundation.”

   Maeglin said that one of McGee’s ideas, for which she currently is fundraising, is an informational board which will be positioned directly behind the stage in the Florence Love Wildflower Garden. 

   “The permanent board will contain information about Geneseo’s native trees and other local nature-related items, along with information about the Florence Love Wildflower Garden, the stage project, and about scouting.” Maeglin added.

   McGee will be fundraising for the board on Saturday during the Trains, Planes and Automobile celebration in Geneseo, and the public is encouraged to stop by and speak with her where she will be set up at the intersection of 1st and State Streets.

ABOUT THE NEW RICHMOND HILL STAGE – FROM BRANDON MAEGLIN

   The Richmond Hill Park Stage will be used by the City of Geneseo for the annual “Thrill on the Hill” concert in July, and the city plans to soon announce a Labor Day event and concert for year 2026.  The city plans to coordinate with the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce, Henry County Tourism Bureau, and other local organizations for additional opportunities to have entertainment and events at the venue for decades to come.

   The stage was designed to be used as an ideal space for outdoor performances, while also being able to double as an outdoor pavilion for other rental opportunities. 

   In 2026, the city will open the structure up for public reservations, and business/community members will be encouraged to coordinate with the city about using the new structure as an option for outdoor gatherings.

   The new stage structure, completed in August of this year, is made of Douglas Fur timbers and was constructed by Signature Big Timbers of Port Byron.  The concrete base and retaining wall were completed by Construction Group of Geneseo, along with staff from Geneseo Electric, Public Works and the Building Inspections/Development Department.  Total cost of the stage and surrounding structures was $93,000, with half of that funding coming from grant awards and other fundraising measures.  

MEET HANNAH MCGEE

   Hannah McGee, daughter of Shawn and Taunya, is a senior at Geneseo High School. 

   Her membership in Geneseo High School Key Club led her to attend a meeting of the Geneseo Kiwanis Club, which sponsors school Key Clubs, service-oriented clubs.  It was at that meeting where she learned of the Richmond Hill Stage Project the City of Geneseo was working on…”I had been looking for something to help with for my Scouting Gold Award.  I went to the City Administrator, Brandon Maeglin, to ask about it and he mentioned wanting to making a Richmond Hill Stage, and I was granted access to help with the stage.  Another reason that I grew interested in the opportunity is the fact that I am interested in engineering and I believe this will give me good experience and an understanding of what my future career may look like.”

   In her effort to raise funds for the proposed sign to be placed at the back of the new Richmond Hill Stage, McGee will be sharing information about the stage and about scouting to interested passersby at the Trains, Planes and Automobiles event on Saturday.  She will be at the intersection of 1st and State Street in downtown Geneseo, and said she hopes to be able to visit with lots of people and raise funds for the sign.

   In looking to the future, Miss McGee is interested in pursuing a career in engineering and plans to attend either Purdue University or Bradley University.

   She has been involved in Scouting for 13 years and will continue to be involved as a volunteer at day camp, doing community service and become a Scout leader.

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Trains, Planes and Automobiles Events at Geneseo Museum and Carriage House

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Geneseo Historical Museum and the Carriage House will be open to visitors of all ages during the annual Trains, Planes and Automobiles celebration on Saturday, Sept. 6, in Geneseo.

   Both the museum, at 205 South State St., and the carriage house and lawn, located to the rear of the museum, will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sept. 6.

   Melanie Rice, Museum Curator/Director, is shown in her 1950’s attire at the display inside the museum that depicts memories of Geneseo from the 1950’s. Photo by Claudia Loucks

   Volunteers inside the museum will be dressed in 1950’s attire, and a special exhibit for the TPA weekend is the 1950’s display which showcases Geneseo items in that era, including an “Orsi & Green” sign, which was a popular “soda fountain” shop on State St., in downtown Geneseo, well-known for the crowds of young people who frequented the establishment for the “famous” Green River and Chocolate Coke drinks.

   Melanie Rice, Museum Director/Curator, said the current military exhibit at the Geneseo Historical Museum, will remain on display through Sept. 6 so that anyone who may have missed seeing it before will have an opportunity on Sept. 6. 

   She said the exhibit, “In Service and Sacrifice,” is a tribute to the men and women who have served in the armed forces - highlighting some personal stories behind the uniforms. 

The displays on both the first and second floors of the museum showcase military uniforms with explanations of what they represent.

    Rice said “Every uniform tells a story, not just of the conflicts, but of courage, sacrifice and service!”

INSIDE THE CARRIAGE HOUSE AND ON THE MUSEUM LAWN

  The Paper Airplane Game will be on the lawn between the Geneseo Museum and the Carriage House on Saturday, Sept. 6, during the Trains, Planes and Automobiles celebration in Geneseo.

   The events inside the Carriage House and lawn connecting the Carriage House to the Museum, will feature activities and games relating to airplanes connected to the Harold Neumann Project display in the Carriage House.

   The activities and games include airplane ball pit, making balsa wood airplanes, rubber duck matching game, constructing and racing paper airplanes, card board plane races, a scavenger hunt, photos booth and much more.

   Information received from Paula Neumann Chapa, chairman of the Harold Neumann Project, states, “During Harold Neumann’s flying career of 70 years, he accomplished much more than that farm boy from Geneseo, ever imagined he could.  In 1935, Harold Neumann won the Greve Trophy, the Thompson Trophy along with the award of America’s #1 Pilot by the National Aeronautical Association.  He is acknowledged in the Smithsonian; he was a barnstormer, skywriter, and a Captain for TWA for 30 years.  From Jenny’s to Jets, this man was not just a pilot, he was a genius.”

   Neumann shared, “Collecting memorabilia of Harold’s from museums and family members across the country has been nothing less than thrilling for us.  We have his Greve Trophy and his Thompson Trophies, and they were just the tip of the iceberg.  On loan from Special Collections & University Archives, University of Illinois Chicago, we will have the original Eiffel Tower that Harold presented to Mayor Daley after his celebrated flight from Paris to Chicago in 1958.  That flight made O’Hare Airport an International Airport that day.”

   The Harold Neumann Project also now includes the fuselage, tail and wing skin from Neumann’s aerobatic Mon coupe, “Little Mulligan.”

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Harvest Time Music Fest 2025 is Sept. 20-21

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Geneseo High School band and choir students from left, Violet Runty, Nina Schmedding and Anna Davis are promoting the prizes to be awarded in the raffle drawings at the Harvest Time Music Festival, Saturday, Sept. 20, and Sunday, Sept. 21.  First place prize is one year of free groceries from Geneseo Dollar Fresh.  Additional prizes in drawings are listed in this story. Photo by Claudia Loucks

The Geneseo Harvest Time Music Festival will kick off a weekend of activities with the 35th annual Maple leaf Marching Band Classic on Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Geneseo High School.Bob Reade Football Stadium. 

   The two-day festival concludes Sunday, Sept. 21, with festivities in Geneseo City Park. 

   The Maple Leaf Marching Band Competition takes center stage from 3 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21, with area high school bands competing for top honors.

   Public is invited to the competition featuring high school bands from Sherrard High School, Streator Township High School, United Township High School, Galva High School, Minooka Community High School, Macomb High School, Rock Falls High School, Western Dubuque High School, Bettendorf High School, Rockridge High School and Rochelle Township High School.

   Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for senior citizens and students.

   Geneseo Middle School Band students will perform the introduction and The Sound of Geneseo Marching Band (TSOG) will perform in exhibition.  Western Illinois University musicians will perform at the conclusion of the evening. 

   On n Sunday, Sept. 21, in Geneseo City Park, or at the high school if it rains, activities will include pork chop sandwiches and concessions, available from noon to 5 p.m., with karaoke and music from 12 noon to 4:30 p.m.

   The seventh-and eighth-grade choirs will perform at 1 p.m., with high school choirs at 2 p.m.  Choirs representing grades 4-12 will present the grand finale at 4:30 p.m., with songs connected to this year’s theme, “Seasons.”

   A talent show of students is from 3 to 4 p.m.

   Also on Sept. 21, a silent auction will be held from 12 to 4 p.m. with winners announced at 4 p.m.

   Raffle drawings will begin at 4 p.m. for large raffle items and conclude with smaller raffle items.

Prizes include a first-place prize of one year of free groceries form Geneseo Dollar Fresh, second prize is a 4-Day, 3-Night All-Inclusive Getaway Vacation to Chula Vista Resort in the Wisconsin Dells, including gas and gift cards, a $2500 value - sponsored by the local businesses in Geneseo.   Third prize is a Geneseo package – one year membership to the Geneseo Park District including the swimming pool, five hours of computer repair from Wolfe Computer and Console Repair, free piano tuning from Misfeldt Instrument Repair, gift cards to Sweet Marie’s, Caffeine & Carbs, Reap & Sow Nutrition, Pegasus Fine Gifts, Geneseo Brewing Company, Habaneros, and Anthology - $1,600 value – sponsored by Wolfe Computer and Console Repair, Misfeldt Instrument Repair and Geneseo local businesses.   

   Tickets for raffle items are $10 each, five for $40, and are available at the festival and from band and choir members.  Raffle tickets also are available to purchase online through the GPAC website: geneseoarts.com. Online tickets may be purchased until 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21.

   The annual two-day Harvest Time Music Festival is sponsored by Geneseo Performing Arts Council (GPAC) and proceeds benefit Geneseo band, choir and drama students.

Finishing Touch Longarming Business in Geneseo - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Jan Hartsock is the owner/operator of Finishing Touch Longarming business located in her Geneseo home.

  It was her passion for sewing and quilting that led Jan Hartsock to launch her own business when she retired from a career in real estate.

   Finishing Touch Longarming is a machine quilting/computerized business located in the Hartsock home at 16554 East 1600 St., Geneseo.  Hours of the business are by appointment by calling 309-945-8819 or emailing Hartsock at jlhartsock56@gmail.com.

   Hartsock began sewing when she was in junior high school, making clothes for herself, then for her children and later for her granddaughter…”About 30 years ago a friend introduced me to quilting and I knew then that when I retired, I would turn my passion into a business.”

   When asked where she got the idea for her business, Hartsock replied, “As a quilter when you have your quilt top finished, you still have to put the batting and backing together.  There are various ways to complete this step, which is one of the finishing steps.  For years I took my quilts to a long-armer to have this done.”

   About 15 years ago she purchased a hobby quilting machine and began quilting many of her own quilts.   When she retired in 2023, she upgraded her quilting machine to an industrial machine so she would be able to not only complete her own quilts, but to also do that finishing step for other people.

   In addition to machine quilting, Hartsock also offers minor mending and machine embroidery and she also has finished quilts, pillow cases and gift items for sale.

   When asked about the biggest hurdle she had to overcome in starting her own business, she said, “Getting the name out.  In the past, leaving your business cards at quilt stores, and having quilt store owners recommend a long-armer, and word of mouth was quite easy.  There are new challenges since Covid, more brick and mortars have switched to online stores, and many stores have closed.  Locally, two of my ‘go-to’ quilt shops have sadly gone.  The owners of Quilt Box in Kewanee retired after a storm damaged their building and after 20 years in business; and Our Crafty Life in Geneseo has been converted to an online business.”

   She added, “The hobbyist has the same challenges, where to go to get their sewing/quilting supplies?  The popularity of quilting and crafts has not diminished and that is represented by the number of local quilt guilds, such as the Geneseo Quilt Guild and Prairie Queen Quilt Club in Bishop Hill.

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Geneseo is the ‘Right Fit’ for New School Superintendent - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Dr. Laura Delgado

Dr. Laura Delgado was searching for a school superintendent position shortly after she completed her Doctorate Degree at Illinois State University earlier this year, and that search led her to Geneseo.  She was named Superintendent of the Geneseo Community Unit School District in April.

   When asked about her interest in the Geneseo School District, she said, “I knew I wanted to find a community that felt like the ‘right fit’ for me and my family.  While I interviewed for multiple positions, nothing felt quite right.  When Geneseo opened up, I drove up to the area and instantly felt like the community was a place I could call home.”

   She added that she “loves the small-town feel, but also the welcoming nature of the community and the clear commitment to family and education.”

   When asked: “What’s ahead?  What do you see in the future for Geneseo Schools?”  Dr. Delgado answered, “I am looking forward to continuing the tradition of excellence that clearly exists in the Geneseo School District.  It is my goal to continue to lift and support what is going well and problem-solve through areas that may need lifting.

   I am most excited to learn more this year as I spend time in schools with students, teachers, and support staff.  I am looking forward to learning about programs that make Geneseo exceptional, including (but not limited to) life skills, fine arts, athletics, FFA and CTE programs.  I hope to continue to grow our enrollment as we take pride in being a ‘destination district’ for families in the area.”

   When asked: “What is most enjoyable or exciting about your position/career?”  Dr. Delgado replied, “I love meeting new people, connecting with their passions, and working on solving problems.  I am a student-centered leader and the main focus of my work is always what is best for students.  I love the complexities and nuances of running a school district and look forward to continuing to grow in this role.”

   And: What’s the least enjoyable - ups and downs of your career?”  She said, “This career, like most, has its ups and downs.  I want to design systems that support students and staff, but sometimes you have to have difficult conversations or make decisions that are not popular with everyone.  As long as we continue to center what is best for students, I can weather those ups and downs.”

   Delgado and her husband, Rafael Delgado, is a project manager for commercial facilities with Growmark and Dr. Delgado said, “He designs and manages projects for co-ops across the state.  Luckily, he works from home most of the time, so moving to Geneseo was possible for our family.”

   The couple has one son, Xavier Delgado, a sophomore at Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa.  His mother said,” He is studying education and plays on the Loras Football team.  We are proud parents and have loved watching him grow into an incredible young man.”

Dr. Delgado’s education:

Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education - Eastern Michigan University (1995)
Master’s Degree in Instructional Technology - Eastern Michigan University (2002)
Master’s Degree in Educational Administration - Illinois State University (2017)
Doctor of Education Degree w/Superintendent Endorsement - ISU (2024)

Dr. Delgado’s work history:

2021-2025 Director of Elementary Education - Bloomington District 87 (Bloomington)
2013-2021 Principal, elementary teacher, instructional coach - McLean County Unit 5 (Normal)
1999-2013 Elementary Teacher - Ann Arbor Public Schools (Ann Arbor, MI)
Prior to this I taught preschool at a private school and a few years in Howell, MI.

Professional certifications and credentials include:

-Superintendent Endorsement, PK-12, State of Illinois.
-Working on 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.

They Are Ready for College - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   Christian Haney, left; and Rachael Roodhouse post for a photo in front of what is now their high school alma mater, Geneseo High School,  as they are ready to begin college classes.  Claudia Loucks Photo

  Getting ready for college is a significant life transition that includes excitement and challenges.  It’s a time for personal growth and independence, but also a time of adjustment and potential stress. 

   I chose to ask two 2025 Geneseo High School graduating seniors how they are preparing for college.

   Rachael Roodhouse, daughter of James and Abbey Roodhouse, will be attending the University of Wisconsin -Platteville, where she will be pursuing the pre-law track and majoring in marketing.  Christian Haney, son of Cindy Haney, will be studying Computer Science at Black Hawk College and later transferring to Augustana College, and he said, “I’m going with this route to save money and to stay close to home so I can work.”

   When asked why she chose the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, Rachael Roodhouse said, “I chose to go to UW-Platteville because of its incredibly welcoming and friendly student body every time I visited.  It’s also the perfect distance form home – about two hours away – which makes it easy to come back whenever I need, but far enough that my parents can’t visit every day.  My older   sister also attended Platteville and currently lives there.  She is my role model, and seeing how much she loved her experience at Platteville really inspired me to attend there as well.”

   She said she did not visit any colleges until her senior year at GHS, “but every single one I visited, I fell in love with.  Ultimately, my decision came down to what would be the most financially affordable for me.  Most of my senior year was spent searching and applying for scholarships and figuring out which college offered the best financial and academic opportunities for the future.”

   Christian Haney did a lot of planning in his senior year of high school, trying to solidify his major because not every college offers his original choice of hardware engineering…”Luckily, I had help at Black Hawk that helped me decide on Computer Science and the path I needed to take.”

   Both young people were asked if they planned to be involved with any extracurricular activities in college and Roodhouse said, “While I’m not playing any sports for Platteville

‘s official teams, I do plan to join intramural clubs for some of the sports I enjoyed in high school, like basketball and tennis, as well as clubs similar to those I was part of before, like student government.  I’m also pretty open-minded and excited to try out new clubs or sports I may have never experienced before.”

   Haney said Black Hawk College has a College IT Society “that I’ve been eyeing, so hopefully I’ll be part of that.”

   And how about the dorm room decorating?

      Even though not necessary at Black Hawk, Christian Haney said, “Although this is applicable for Augustana, I’ve already committed to making a 30-minute drive nearly every day as opposed to living in the dorms.”

   Rachel Roodhouse answered, “While planning your dorm room, school supplies, and clothes is definitely the most fun part of college-planning, I think the most beneficial part of my planning was staying on top of applications, housing deadlines, and scholarship opportunities.”

   She received a $500 scholarship form the Northside PTA which she dedicated to be her budget for dorm supplies…”As soon as I found out which residence hall I would be in at Platteville, I went to my school’s website and printed their official resident hall packing list, crossing off what I already had and adding anything that I still needed or wanted.”

   She and her roommate made a shared Pinterest board full of decoration ideas and layout designs they liked which she said was “super helpful for planning what we could share, what we each needed our own of, and as a fun icebreaker to get to know each other better.  Some of the best places I’ve found to shop for dorm supplies are Target, HomeGoods, TJ Maxx and Amazon.” 

   The soon-to-be college freshman admits that clothes have been the most difficult part of packing for college, and she said, “I really enjoy dressing up and styling outfits, so it’s been hard to avoid overpacking.  To help, I made a list of each type of clothing – the sweatshirts, jeans, dresses, and so on – and decided how many of each would be appropriate to take.  Then I went through my closet, narrowing down what I really wanted to take and what needed to stay home.  I also kept the seasons in mind so I wouldn’t end up packing heavy winter clothes for the fall.  After finishing my college packing, I sorted through what was left at home that I wanted to keep and gave the rest to Goodwill or to my little sister.”

   Christian Haney said he plans to wear more formal clothing at college…”Probably a lot of collar-neck shirts in my future.”

   In regard to sororities or fraternities, Haney said he didn’t think he would ever join a fraternity if he went to a college away from home.  “From what I know, it can be expensive, and they don’t necessarily have the best stereotypes to be associate with,” he added.

   Roodhouse said, “I’m probably interested in joining a sorority.  My school is Division III, so rushing isn’t as much of a deal as it is at larger schools, but it’s still very much alive and a part of campus culture.  My plan is to get to campus first, explore the different sororities available, and then decide when and how I want to start the joining process.”

   Haney did not have to make any decisions about a dorm roommate as he will be commuting, but Roodhouse said even she has not personally met her roommate, they have chatted many times over testing and the phone…”We first connected through our school’s incoming freshman Instagram page where she messaged me asking if I already had a roommate.  From both of our posts, it seemed like we had a lot in common – we booth have older siblings who attend or attended Platteville, and we both ran cross country and track in high school.  It was a little awkward messaging at first while trying to figure out if our living habits would be compatible, but talking on the phone instead of just texting helped break the ice a lot.”

   When asked what they think they will miss most about high school, Roodhouse said, “I think I’ll really miss having the chance to sit with my friends at lunch every day, and those fun walks to and from class and the parking lot where we talk about whatever wild or funny thing that just happened in class.  It’s the little moments and opportunities high school gives you to hang out with friends that I’ll definitely miss  !”

   Haney said what he will miss is the “feeling of familiarity.  Especially since many of my friends are going to be hours away, and I won’t know everyone.

   Another questions I had for the two college-bound students – What is the most frightening about leaving about leaving for college and what is the most exciting.  Haney replied that the most frightening think is “the people and making new connections,” and added that the most exciting is “new experiences that I get to be part of.”

   Roodhouse said she thinks the most frightening aspect of college is “all the what ifs’ – what if I don’t find friends?  What if the classes are too hard?  What if this isn’t the right educational or career path for me.  But on the flip side, the most exciting part is the unknown.  Who am I going to meet?  What new clubs and opportunities are waiting for me?”

   My comment is that both young people are ready for their next step in higher education!

Henry County Humane Society – Geneseo Shelter - How It Began and What it Has Become

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

  The Henry County Humane Society- Geneseo Shelter became a reality 50 years ago, in January of 1975.

   Prior to that time, the lost and abandoned animals in Geneseo were housed in what has been described as “sadly inadequate facilities.”

   A group of concerned Geneseo citizens were instrumental in forming an organization in 1974 with a goal of “aid in the prevention of cruelty to animals, and to generally improve the lot of defenseless animals.”

   In 2005, the group began holding office hours at the animal shelter which allowed anyone interested in adoption to come and meet the animals.  They also placed profiles and photographs online to help introduce the animals to families or individuals who may be interested in adopting. 

HOW IT BEGAN ---Some information in the history section of this story was provided by the Geneseo Humane Society – Geneseo Shelter and by Geneseo writer Steve Kastorff.

   Those volunteers also took the animals on outings away from the shelter for “meet and greets” to help with the adoption process, and their efforts seemed to work as by 2015 the group averaged 300 adoptions per year. 

   In the first year of incorporation, at no cost to them, the group shared the Geneseo City Dog Pound, located north of Geneseo.  The group of volunteers arranged to have a heater placed in the dog pound and they also were responsible for the installation of a new roof.

   With the increase of interest in the animals, there was a need for more volunteers.  That “need” resulted in the group continuing as an organization and becoming the Henry County Humane Society – Geneseo Branch.   It was the hope of those volunteers that the name would clarify that the group was there to help animals in the Geneseo area, and not the entire county.

   By the fall of 1986, the group was still using the city dog pound and the volunteers had just completed work on a new exercise yard at the facility.

   Fast forward to 2000, and the group was continuing to operate from donations and there were no paid workers to help care for the animals.  The group still was operating from the city-owned shelter at no cost to the group, with the exception of the cost of caring for the animals housed at the shelter.

   In December of 2007, it was announced that the organization would begin raising funds to construct a new Henry County Geneseo Branch of the Humane Society, located south of the city-owned shelter.   

   The volunteers envisioned a new building, more than 7,000 square feet in size, as the city shelter that housed the animals in 2007 was 1,200 square feet.

   Geneseo Communications spearheaded the fund-raising effort in 2007 with a goal of raising $50,000 for a new shelter building.

 The Henry County Humane Society – Geneseo Shelter is governed by a nine-member board, which includes, from left, Kristen VerStraete, board member; Linda VanDerLeest, president; Jamie DeSplinter, vice president; Cindy Hoste, treasurer; Kim Park, board member; Ashley Moore, board member; Traci Ellsworth, secretary, and Katie Irwin, board member.  Carlie Sanchez also is a board member, but was absent for the photo.  Contributed Photo

   In 2007, the Humane Society had 51 members and about 30 volunteers who helped with more than 160 animal adoptions that year.  The need to have their own building came from insurance concerns raised by the city’s insurance provider.

   The goal was to build the new facility south and west of the original dog pound.  Until the new building could be constructed, a wall was put up between the city side and the Humane Society’s in February of 2008.

   With the new wall in place, the city had four dog runs and a bank of cat cages and the Humane Society had four dog runs and a cat room.  The building was arranged so each side would have its own entrance.

   In June of 2008, the second phase of the fund-raising for the building was underway, as the first $50,000 became a reality.

  New construction began in 2013, but funds were short which stalled the completion of the facility. 

   In 2016, Dr. Barb Kuhns and her husband, Bob Kuhns, donated $250,000 for the completion of the new shelter and the Humane Society – Geneseo Branch now operates out of its new home and is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

AND WHAT IT HAS BECOME

   The Henry County Humane Society – Geneseo Shelter has continued to grow through the years.

   Katie Irwin, who serves on the Humane Society Board, shared that growth has happened not only in the number of animals being cared for and adopted, but also in the number of people who are dedicated to the well-being to those animals and where they are housed.

   “We have experienced exciting changes over the past couple of years,” Irwin said.  “Our board has evolved significantly, with four new members joining in that time, bringing us to a total of nine.  This expansion has infused fresh energy and diverse perspectives into our leadership, allowing us to strengthen our commitment to our mission and create a more dynamic, forward-thinking team.  These changes have propelled us into a period of growth and transformation, positioning us for continued success as we work to further our impact in the community.”

   Irwin added that the group is dedicated to forward-thinking practices that anticipate future needs, ensuring that the shelter not only meets current demands, but is prepared for tomorrow’s challenges.

   “Through strategic sustainability planning, we focus on building a resilient and resource-efficient organization that thrives over time,” she said.  ‘In addition, we actively seek to cultivate strong community partnerships, knowing that collaboration and relationship-building are vital to achieving lasting change for both animals and the community we serve.”

  Accomplishments of the Humane Society – Geneseo Shelter in the last two years include:

  -Creating six new dog yards with privacy fencing and artificial turf to create a more comfortable space;

  -Enhanced disease prevention protocols, bringing ringworm transmission down to zero.

  -A community-donated deep freezer, allowing us to expand our dog enrichment program.

  -A growing team of volunteers, enabling us to provide even more individualized care.

  -The addition of two employees with veterinary technician experience, reducing vet costs and improving in-house care.

   “These milestones reflect our commitment to elevating care for the animals we serve and strengthening our community impact,” Irwin said.

TO CELEBRATE THE 50TH ANNIVESARY MILESTONE

   The Henry County Humane Society – Geneseo Shelter will host their first “Paws for the Cause Gala” from 5 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 18, at Lavender Crest Winery. 

   The evening will include:
  -Live music from two artists – Eva Kendall & Chloe Mae.
  -A live and silent auction.
  -A delicious dinner.
  -A pop-up shop featuring exclusive Humane Society merchandise and animal goodies!

   For more information, contact the Geneseo shelter at info@henrycountyhumanesociety.org and see the attached graphic bout the Gala.

First Methodist Church in Geneseo to Become Kingswood Church in 175th Year of Ministry

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

GENESEO, IL — First Methodist Church in Geneseo, Illinois, is stepping into a new chapter of ministry with a new name. On August 17, the historic congregation located at the corner of State and Park Streets will be known as Kingswood Church.

The renaming comes as the church celebrates its 175th year of continuous ministry. After a yearlong season of dialogue and discernment with congregants and leaders, the decision was made to adopt a more distinctive identity in the community. Geneseo is currently home to five churches with “First” in their names, and two Methodist congregations.

“Jesus is our King, yet he went to the cross out of his great love for us,” said Pastor Chris Ritter. “The name Kingswood reflects both the crown and the cross. It also connects us to one of the most powerful revivals in Christian history. The First Great Awakening began in Kingswood—a coal-mining village near Bristol, England—where John Wesley and George Whitefield boldly preached the Gospel. We pray to be part of the next great move of God.”

While the new name does not include a denominational reference, the church remains proudly affiliated with the Global Methodist Church, a denomination of about 5,000 congregations worldwide. Pastor Ritter currently serves as chair of the Global Episcopacy Committee for the denomination.

Kim Gehling served as chairperson of the “rebranding team” that has been meeting to discuss a new name for Geneseo First Methodist Church.

She said, “Our team was honored to be entrusted with the church’s rebrand. Since October, 2024, we’ve followed a thoughtful, thorough process to develop a name and logo that reflects the church’s history, identity, and mission.”

When asked if the new name will include Kingswood Global Methodist Church, Gehling said, “The official new name is ‘Kingswood Church,”: and being a part of the Global Methodist Church will be referenced in some places, but not in the name.”

Founded in 1850, the congregation began as a small gathering led by a horseback circuit rider in Geneseo’s Seminary Building. Its first sanctuary, built in 1854, still stands today as the Don Cherry VFW Post. The church has been located at its current site since 1867 and today welcomes an average of 450 worshippers across four weekend services.

As Kingswood Church, the congregation looks forward to serving the region by proclaiming the Gospel, relying on the living presence of the Holy Spirit, and advancing Christian mission. The public is invited to a Kingswood Church Launch Weekend on August 16 (6:00 pm) and 17 (8:00, 9:00, or 10:30 am). Additional details are available at www.peopleneedjesus.org.

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Chris Ward of Geneseo Invited to Present at World Therapy Congress in Scotland

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Chris Ward and Dr. William Hiebert, general secretary of the Family Therapy Association.

Chris Ward has more than 50 years of coaching experience and a 30-year background in counseling, and the knowledge of her combined roles earned her an invitation to present at the
Family Therapy Association 2025 World Therapy Congress held in Aberdeen, Scotland.

She explained her presentation, “Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT Techniques to Train Exceptional Athletes to Elite Success and Research Their Family Support Systems,”
focused on her use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in her counseling practice (Geneseo Marriage and Family Counseling) and she said, “but I also encourage the CBT techniques to coach athletes.”

Ward and her husband Larry have been coaching gymnastics in Geneseo and Sterling for more than 50 years, and currently are the coaches for the Geneseo High School gymnastics team and for the Geneseo Park District, and Ward said, “We have no plans to retire, and I would not be able to do all that I do without the help and support from my husband Larry.”

Her knowledge of CBT also comes from having served as a middle school counselor for 29 years prior to retirement in 2020.

Chris Ward is photographed at the Family Therapy Association 2025 World Therapy Congress held in Aberdeen, Scotland.

In preparing for her presentation in Scotland, Ward interviewed 10 college track athletes and gymnasts, and she said, “I also did a qualitative research project with their feedback about how their own parents or families supported them to be the most successful.”

When asked to define CBT, Ward replied, “Cognitive Behavioral Therapy uses the technique of learning to think differently about an issue, another person, or problem. Therefore, they may feel differently, and ultimately behave more positively. CBT is a very popular theory because it is so effective.”

Larry & Chris Ward.

She said CBT is effective in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD, as well as managing emotional challenges like grief and stress.

While positive thinking is part of the puzzle of CBT, it is not the only focus, CBT also incorporates behavior techniques and goals to help people develop a more balanced and realistic perspective, not just a positive one.

Ward and her husband Larry were in Scotland for 11 days and while much of their time was spent at the World therapy Congress, they also enjoyed touring Scotland and visiting castles.

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Sugar Maple Lady Golfers Raise over $3,000 for Breast Cancer Awareness

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Lynda DeMoss, left, and Janice Durick, at right, co-chairwomen of the recent golf outing to benefit Breast Cancer Awareness, are shown with Colleen Rafferty, Director of Development, Unity Point Health, Trinity Health Foundation. Photo by Claudia Loucks

The recent Annual Breast Cancer Awareness event, hosted by the Sugar Maple Ladies Golf League and held at Sugar Maple Golf Club, raised a total of 3,319 which was donated to Trinity Health. The donation is part of the League’s $7,500 five-year pledge titled, “Swing FORE the Cure.”

A statement from the Ladies Golf League said, “The funds will support the Unity Point Health – Trinity Cancer Center Expansion Campaign, which will ensure high quality accessible, local oncology care for generations to come. An infusion chair in the newly-expanded Trinity Cancer Center in Moline will be named for ‘Swing FORE the Cure’.”

The Ladies Golf Outing also honored and celebrated the lives of two League members, Sharon VanKerrebroeck and Judy Walters, who lost their battles with cancer in the last year.

There were 42 golfers representing 14 area communities who participated in the 2025 event.

Cancer survivors who partaiciapted in the recent golf outing were recognized and given gifts.

Karen Taylor of Sheffield received a prize for the lowest score of 36.

In addition to the nine holes of golf, the day included a salad luncheon provided by members of the Sugar Maple Ladies League, raffle drawings for gifts donated by members and businesses, in addition to gift certificates donated by local businesses. Money from the raffle drawings totaled $855; money from the 50/50 drawing totaled $281 with the winner donating half back to the event, and $41 was realized from “Mulligans.”

A spokesperson for the Ladies League said their group “sincerely thanks the Sugar Maple Golf Club, the Hwy 6 Supper Club (which remain closed for lunch to the public the day of the event); Sugar Maple Ladies League members, employees of Sugar Maple, and husbands and other men who handled golf clubs and food for League members and guests.”

Lona Pribble Will Share Her Gardens at Upcoming Porches, Pools & Patios Tour

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Guests on the upcoming Porches, Pools and Patios Tour will have the opportunity to see the results from Lona Pribble’s love of gardening that expands five decades.

It’s like entering into another world when one steps into the back yard of the Lona Pribble home in Geneseo.

Guests on the upcoming Tour will have the opportunity to experience that transformation this Saturday when they visit the Pribble grounds and walk through the garden gate onto a brick patio that seems to encompass the entire yard with flower borders on both sides and a grape arbor to the front.

As guests stroll toward the grape arbor they see that the brick goes on, and leads them into the second phase of the patio, this one flanked by two ponds, a huge arborvitae, more planting areas and a seating area. Tucked away is a hidden garden secluded by the arborvitae tree.

Most people ask “Where does your yard end?” When Lona points beyond the green expanse of lawn to the surrounding fence most people are in awe. To the right is the Hosta Garden filled to the brim with Hosta this time of year. In April, when the Hosta are still enjoying their winter rest, this area is solid blue with bluebells. Various wild flowers and bulbs are mingled among them adding shades of yellow, pink, red and orange.

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The Lightkeepers of First Methodist Church Porches, Pools & Patios Tour is Saturday, July 19, with the designated properties open to visitors form 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 are available 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.

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The conifer gardens, with a vast variety of plantings, spreads to the right as well. 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 walnut trees., and to the left is a garden filled with a variety of flowers, and a rock garden. To the rear of the yard is a fountain flanked by more conifers and beyond that you see an explosion of color from the Zinnias Pribble has planted.

The variety of Conifer gardens surround a large pavilion that includes a fire pit.

Pribble 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 her late husband, Ray Pribble.

Recently, Pribble was hostess to the American Conifer Society which includes members from across the United States.

Pribble said the 165 Society members lodged at Bally’s in Rock Island and for three days toured gardens from Clinton, Iowa, to Monmouth, including the Pribble gardens.

"I enjoy sharing my gardens," Pribble said. "Because I do share it with others, I try to make it as attractive as possible for all seasons.

Pribble admits she finds peace in her garden and has posted a sign which reads, “The best place to seek God is in the garden.” Another sign states, “How lovely is the silence of growing things.”

The Pribble gardens have been a "50-year process," and gardening is something Pribble admits she has always enjoyed. "We have had a cutting garden and a vegetable garden in the rear of the yard since we moved here more than 50 years ago," she said. "I have always had flowers here and there around the house."

Those original gardens have been expanding for the last 50 years to where they now are the spacious back yard, about ¾ of an acre, Pribble said.

"Our garden had no 'master plan,' it simply evolved," she said. "I take after my mother in that I enjoy working in the garden."

Whenever Pribble thinks the gardens are “finished," she always seems to come up with one more idea.

“A garden is never finished,” she said.

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Bryson Boxell Receives Aviation Scholarship - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Bryson Boxell, who will be a senior at Geneseo High School, has received a full scholarship opportunity for flight training from the Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 410 of Geneseo, and the Ray Aviation Scholarship Program administered by the Experimental Aircraft Association in Oshkosh, WI.

Bryson Boxell, third from left, is the recent recipient of a $12,000 scholarship for flight training to obtain his private pilot license from the Experimental Aircraft Association and the Ray Aviation Scholarship program. With Boxell are Kent Johnson, at left, of the Geneseo Airport and president of the EAA Chapter 410; Bryson’s father, Brent Boxell; Bryson, and his mother Shelley Boxell. Contributed Photo.

He is the son of Brent and Shelley Boxell, Geneseo. The Ray Aviation Scholarship program provides up to $12,000 scholarships to young people who are seeking to learn to fly. The Ray Foundation has provided $2.25 million in 2025 to fund the scholarship program, which seeks to improve the flight training success rate from the current industry standards of 20 percent to 80 percent for program participants. Local EAA chapters are responsible for identifying youth for the Ray Aviation Scholarship program and mentoring them through flight training. The Ray Foundation is furthering the legacy of James C. Ray, an EAA lifetime member who was dedicated to aviation and youth education.

Since its introduction in 2019, the EAA Ray Aviation Scholarship program has allowed over 600 youths to complete their flight training and receive their pilot licenses. The program has been consistently meeting and exceeding its expected 80 percent success rate each year.

Boxell’s scholarship is the third scholarship the Geneseo Chapter has awarded and administered on behalf of the Ray Aviation Foundation and the EAA of Oshkosh, WI.

Cooper Schaad, a 2024 GHS graduate, received the 2024 scholarship, and Nathan Dunker, also a 2024 graduate of GHS, received the 2023 scholarship.

Boxell is training at Quad-Cities Aero, based at the Quad-City Airport in Moline. The scholarship is designed to support a flight student through both written and practical segments of flight training that are part of successful FAA pilot certification.

EAA chapters play a significant role in the success of the Ray Aviation Scholarship program. Chapters interested in participating are prequalified by EAA through an application process. If selected, they mentor and support the scholarship recipient throughout their flight training journey. Once selected as a Ray Aviation Scholarship recipient, candidates also commit to volunteer service with the local EAA chapter.

EAA Chapter 410 of Geneseo is one of 900 local chapters of EAA, the world’s largest organization for recreational flying. It meets at the Gen-Air Airport in Geneseo on the first Saturday of each month. More information about the EAA Chapter is available at https://chapters.eaa.org/eaa410 or on Facebook.

ABOUT EAA

“The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) is based in Oshkosh, WI. The Spirit of Aviation through the world’s most engaged community of aviation enthusiasts, EAA’s 300,000 members and 900 local chapters enjoy the fun and camaraderie of sharing their passion for flying, building and restoring recreational aircraft. For more information on EAA and its programs, call 800-564-6322 or visit www.eaa.org.”

Norma Lodge’s 100th Birthday Open House on July 20 - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Norma Lodge. Contributed Photo

Norma Lodge is reaching a milestone birthday. She will be 100 years “young” on July 20 and will be honored at a birthday open house from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 20, at Grace United Methodist Church, 318 North Center St., Geneseo

Family and friends are invited to the event and there is a “no gifts” request.

Norma Lodge credits her long life to her “orneriness,” but those who know her have a different explanation.

She has a sense of humor and age hasn’t changed that, commented a church friend of Lodge’s, who added, “Norma is a good person, always going out of her way to help others.”

Visitors to her home often find her at her sewing machine, working on pillowcase dresses and more. Lodge totals over 100 pillowcase dresses in addition to shorts and tops each year for the Operation Christmas Child project at Grace Church, and she also sews cloth diapers and book bags for Midwest Mission which also is supported by Grace Church.

“It is good to be busy,” Lodge said. “These are just small things we can do for others.”

Music also has been an important part of her life and Lodge was a choir member at her church until she turned 90, and she chose to drop out then “because it just became too difficult.”

She also was a member of the “Love Unlimited” music group at Grace Church.

Her late husband, Glenn Lodge, was a well-known area musician, and Lodge said the entire family enjoyed music.

“Singing is something we could do together,” she said. “We weren’t rich and that didn’t cost money.”

She is mother to five daughters, Nancy Lund, Lynette Wildermuth, and Mary Gorman, all of Geneseo; Janice Thayer, Atlanta, GA; and Joan Eshbaugh, Denver, CO.; two sons, Roger Lodge, Rock Island; and Larry Lodge, Andover; one son, Jim Lodge, is deceased; There are 18 grandchildren, and 28 great-grandchildren.

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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.”

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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.

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Blood Drive Tuesday, July 1, at Geneseo First Methodist Church South Campus

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

  The American Red Cross is sponsoring a blood drive on Tuesday, July 1, at Geneseo First Methodist Church, South Campus (back entrance).  The drive will begin at 12 noon and continue until 6 p.m. 

   Appointments are recommended and can be made by calling 1-800-733-2767 (1-800-RED CROSS)

   Information received regarding the Blood Drive states, “Now there’s a better reason to give blood – there’s no finger stick!”  A ring-shaped sensor is placed on the donor’s thumb and in under a minute, the sensor measures and displays hemoglobin.  The U.S. FDA requires that a hemoglobin test is done before donating to ensure the donor isn’t anemic.

   “There’s been a lot of feedback from donors, too,” according to the information received.  “Not only do the donors like it but also it speeds up their processing time.  The OrSense hemoglobin analyzer applies pressure on a donor’s thumb, obstructing blood flow.  Using a method called occlusion spectroscopy, it measures light transmitted through the thumb to give an accurate hemoglobin reading.  Another advantage of this new procedure is that it eliminates biohazardous waste.”

WHY GIVE BLOOD?

  -Every 2 seconds someone in the United States needs blood and/or platelets.

  -It helps save lives:  accident/burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, and people battling cancer.

  -Donors receive information about their own health and their blood will be screened for infectious diseases.

  -It can help prevent heart attacks:  giving blood regularly stimulates the creation of healthy new blood cells which are thinner and lower your risk of heart attacks or strokes caused by arterial blockages.

   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.

   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). 

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Maurice Nelson Receives DAR Community Service Award - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Community Service Award is defined as an award “presented to those who perform voluntary community service on a local level.”

   Maurice (Maurie) Nelson of Geneseo is the recent recipient of the DAR Community Service Award from the Geneseo Chapter DAR.

Maurice Nelson, at right, recently was presented with the DAR Community Service Award form the Geneseo Chapter DAR.   Also, in the photo are, from left, Mary Gustafson, Honorary State Regent, Illinois DAR; Cheryl Chamberlain, Community Service Chairman of the Geneseo DAR; and Nelson’s wife, Brenda Nelson. Photo by Claudia Loucks 

   According to Cheryl Chamberlain, Community Service Chairman of the Geneseo Chapter, Nelson and his wife, Brenda, are co-chairpersons of the Geneseo Aisle of Flags in Geneseo City Park when three times each year more than 900 casket flags are put in place and taken down in the park…”Much work and organization go into this to make it beautiful”: Chamberlain said.

   In a letter of recommendation for the DAR Award, the late Glen Anderson said, “The first 50 flags (in the Geneseo Aisle of Flags) flew in the park in 1981, and today there are almost 1,000.  The flags would not be possible without many volunteers gathering at 7 a.m. and returning at 2 p.m. to put up, take down, and pack them away.  Maurie is one of the original committee members of the Aisle Flags and is a driving force to recruit volunteers, and is the contact for adding a flag and storage of the flags.  I wonder if the Aisle of Flags would be what it is if it weren’t for the work and time, he puts in to keep the flags flying.  Maurie is truly deserving of recognition for the DAR Community Service Award for all the ways he serves his community and church with generosity and kindness.”

   The Rev. Laura Kamprath, pastor at First Lutheran Church in Geneseo, also recommended Nelson for the DAR Community Service Award, and in her letter, she stated, “Maurice Nelson is a force for good throughout our community, including in our church family at First Lutheran…For many years he has volunteered to lead the property and grounds ministry….He is at the church almost daily…from mowing the grass to hanging Christmas lights, to cleaning grease traps and descaling coffee makers, to changing furnace filters, and changing light bulbs.  Maurie does it all without failure.  He serves as worship leader…He has worked with others to find ways to honor Veterans in our congregation, to make sure they how much their community appreciates the sacrifices they made…When he’s not busy with one of those tasks, he’s helping out in many others ways.  He offers rides to people who don’t drive.  He helps those recovering from surgery with errands and chores.  He serves his neighbors in so many ways always with a smile.”

   In addition to his volunteer service with the Aisle of Flags, Nelson is a 70-plus gallon blood platelet donor, volunteers in the men’s’ health morning series at Hammond-Henry Hospital, drives the shuttle service at Hammond-Henry, received the Geneseo Hometown Hero Award, and is active at First Lutheran Church in Geneseo.  

   Chamberlain listed the qualifications for Community Service Award as:

  -A contribution to the community in an outstanding manner through voluntary heroic civic, benevolent service, or by organizing or participating in community activities.

  -The activity must have taken place within the past five years with no compensation.

  -Members of the DAR are eligible for this award if the service is unrelated to their DAR activities.

  -The award may not be presented toa recipient more than one time for the same achievement and may not be initiated or approved posthumously.  Approved awards may be presented posthumously.

  -A nominee may not receive more than one NSDAR award for the same accomplishment.