Sugar Maple Ladies Host Golf Outing - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Forty-two golfers from four area golf clubs, representing 14 area communities, took part in the recent Golf Outing hosted by the Sugar Maple Ladies Golf League. The event was held at Sugar Maple Golf Club, Geneseo, on July 15, a day referred to by many of the ladies as “the hottest, most humid day of summer.”

A total of $2,354 was presented to the Trinity Health Foundation, which is part of the Ladies League’s five-year pledge of $7,500, to “Swing Fore the Cure.”

According to Jean Hahn, who served as co-chairperson of the recent event with Nancy Stover, the funds raised locally will be used to purchase a named infusion chair for the expansion of the Trinity Cancer Center in the Quad Cities, which is designed to make cancer treatments more available locally.

This year’s theme for the outing was “Butterflies and Birdies” – Butterflies symbolize hope.

Cancer survivors who took part in the recent outing hosted by the Sugar Maple Ladies Golf League include from left, Carol Brunner, Barb Specht, Vicki McVietty, Sheila Cromien, Kathryn White, Carole Flowers, Sharon Yoder, Donna Gradert. Phyllis Heckman and Vickie Farrell also are survivors, but are not in the photo. Contributed Photo

In addition to the golf outing, 10 of the golfers, who are cancer survivors, received special recognition. Fused glass butterfly plant stakes were created by 10 members of the Sugar Maple Ladies, under the direction of local glass artist Marie Skiles, and those stakes were presented to the 10 cancer survivors.

Karen Taylor of Sheffield received a prize for the lowest score, one over part; Vickie Farrell, Libby Trego and Jan VanKerrebroeck also were recognized for earning Birdies during the golf round. Winners of special events during the round received hand-made potted plant motif kitchen towels.

The outing included nine holes of golf, a salad luncheon provided by members of the Sugar Maple Ladies Golf League, and an array of gifts given by members and businesses and gift certificates donated by local businesses.

Hahn expressed appreciation to the businesses and listed them: Sugar Maple Golf Club, Trinity Health Foundation, Country View Golf Club, Baker Park Golf Course, BEMER Health & Wellness -Julie Thiel, Kent Johnson (manager GEN-AIR, INC.), Village Florist, Village Home Stores, Pampered Chef (Beth Ford Consultant), Geneseo Chamber of Commerce, Cerno’s Bar & Grill, Culver’s, The Cellar, Dairy Queen, Geneseo Fareway, Four Seasons, State Street Café, Sunrise Café, Wal-Mart.

“It was a very successful event,” she said. “Special thanks to all who had a part in our Outing: Sugar Maple Golf Course, Sugar Maple Ladies League members, employees of Sugar Maple, and the Bag Boys (husbands and other men) who handled clubs and food for our members and guests.”

The special event prize winners at the “Swing FORE the Cure” golf outing hosted by the Sugar Maple Ladies Golf League are, from left, Pat Warren, Sonja Everett, Carole Flowers, Karen Taylor, Joan Windisch and Erna Miller. Contributed Photo

Jump Rope Event Saturday to Benefit Operation Christmas Child

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Shelly Emerick, left, a member of the Operation Christmas Child Church Relations Committee; and Shawn King, director of Children’s Ministry at Geneseo First Methodist Church, are inviting area residents to join them in a Jump Rope Event to benefit Operation Christmas Child. The event is from 10 a.m. to 12 noon on Saturday in the Fellowship Hall of Geneseo First Methodist, 302 North State St.

The event is open to the community and children in fifth grade and younger should be accompanied by an adult. For more information, contact Shawn King at s.king@peopleneedjesus.org.

Those attending will be helping to turn T-shirts into usable jump ropes that will be packed into shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child. It takes three T-shirts to make a jump rope and donations of gently used T-shirts will be accepted, providing they are clean.

The goal for the local outreach is to make 1,000 jump ropes.

Operation Christmas Child is an outreach of Samaritan Purse, an international Christian relief and evangelism organization. The non-profit organization specializes in meeting the critical needs of victims of war, poverty, disease and natural disaster, in order to demonstrate God’s love and share the Gospel.

The OCC ministry uses the shoebox as a tool to open the door for the Gospel and make disciples of all tribes, tongues and nations. OCC started in the United Kingdom in 1990 as an outreach to Romanian Orphans and OCC began in North America in 1993.

Emerick said more than 11,330,126 shoeboxes were filled in the United States in 2023.

Kathleen Repass Shares Her Journey of Donating a Gift of Life - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

There wasn’t a family member or a friend who was in need of a kidney, but that didn’t make any difference to Kathleen Repass of Geneseo. She chose to donate one of her kidneys as a result of listening to a podcast and little hints from God.

That decision was no surprise to those who know the kind and generous Kathleen.

Her story begins with information from the podcast…”I had listened to a podcast called Freakonomics Radio,” she said. “Episode 209 was titled Make Me a Match. It focused on the number of people on the waiting list for a kidney match, (100,000 people in the United States) and the astronomical cost to individuals and the health care system of being on dialysis for continued years.”

She learned that most people are born with two kidneys, “and if we are generally healthy, we only need one,” she said. “Even one healthy kidney is usually not working at full capacity.”

After listening to the podcast, she became more aware of the word “kidney,” she said. “I saw billboards asking for a kidney, I heard of friends and acquaintances with kidney issues and diseases.”

She saw informational advertisements explaining the need for kidney donors…”I prayed every day about the information that I was receiving. Every time I dropped the idea, God sent another hint or message to me about the possibility of donating.”

Once she decided to move forward with the process, each of the required steps moved very quickly and efficiently.

It was July of 2023 when Repass began the process with a health questionnaire through the National Kidney Registry (https://kidneyregistry.org).

“The National Kidney Foundation (https://kidney.org) and the National Kidney Donor Organization (https://nkdo.org) had a wealth of information from every perspective of the process,” she said.

After submitting a blood and urine sample, a series of telephone interviews to explain the process began and the calls also allowed an opportunity for Repass to ask questions.

“The process was very efficient and at each step of the way, I was approved for the next step,” she shared.

In early November of last year, Repass went to Mayo Clinic where she underwent two full days of physical and mental tests and consultations. She was then approved for a donation.

Her kidney availability was submitted to the National Kidney Registry to look for a match.

She explained that was done through a data base that was able to match the traits of her kidney down to genetic markers, antigens, blood type, etc.

“Within a few hours a suitable recipient was identified,” she said.

The procedure was scheduled for January 10 of this year. Repass and her sister traveled to Rochester and stayed in an Airbnb.

The actual procedure took a short time and Repass was in the hospital at 6 a.m. on Jan. 10 and released after lunch the next day, Jan. 11.

She added, “We enjoyed several days together in Rochester. We left to drive home during a brutal blizzard and road conditions of January 12-13. The drive home was the scariest part of the donation process.”

When asked about her emotions before and after donating her kidney, Repass said, “I was just excited and humbled by the fact that I was healthy enough to offer my kidney to someone else. I was fascinated with the process and the skills and research of the health care system to offer this as an effective alternative to people who are in need of a kidney.”

She said she felt “great,” after the surgery and had the usual post-surgery restrictions of not lifting more than 10 pounds for six weeks, and eating well and drinking an abundant amount of fluids.”

The Mayo Clinic checked on her frequently by phone to make sure she was healing, both physically and emotionally.

“I donated on a Wednesday, and took my first walk the following Sunday,” she said. ‘The next Wednesday, I returned to my exercise class, Summit for Adults, held at the Geneseo High School Athletic Facility. I did very light movements and exercise, but it was important for me to get back into the routine, and be with my workout friends.”

When asked if she knew who received her kidney, Repass said, “A man from Pennsylvania, named Michael. He had suffered from polycystic kidney disease for decades, and had been on dialysis for years. I received one letter from him telling me that my kidney had begun to work in his body almost immediately. The day after surgery, he had more energy than he had felt in years. We shared our stories of praying for each other.”

Repass was a “non-directed donor” which meant she did not have a family member or friend who was in need of a kidney…”I am O+ blood type and that is a factor for donor kidneys,”: she explained, and added, “I did not have the option to make any requirements of the recipient.”

She explained that being a non-directed donor often enables a chain of donations to occur, because a person who needs a kidney, but does not have a “matched” donor, can receive a kidney that is placed in the “pool” and then their own willing family or friend is encouraged to still donate a kidney to another person.

Her advice to anyone who is considering donating a kidney, “Absolutely talk to someone who has been a donor, go to the kidney websites for more information, and talk to your family and friends. There are many safeguards built into the process in the event that I or a family member needs a kidney in the future.”

There is no cost to a donor for any of the tests or procedures.

“The peace and joy that I have felt since this journey began is incredible, and have made me a more grateful person,” she said.

Lucille Ball Presentation July 31 at Geneseo Library - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Leslie Goddard, a gifted, award-winning historian, author, actress and lecturer who has been presenting on topics in American History and women’s history for more than 20 years will be making her debut presentation as Lucille Ball at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, July 31, at the Geneseo Public Library. The presentation is free and open to the public.

Lucille Desiree Ball was an American actress, comedian, producer, and studio executive, and was recognized by Time as one of the most influential women of the 20th century for her work in all four of these areas.

Contributed Photo

In the 1950’s, she captured the hearts of television audiences across the nation. Off-screen, she and her real-life husband launched their own television studio and pioneered new technologies. Unbeknownst to her viewers, however, the day-to-day struggles of living your life on TV took a toll on the couple’s marriage.

A former museum director, Leslie Goddard holds a PhD from Northwestern University as well as master’s degrees in museum study and in theater.

She is known nationally for her work in bringing women’s history alive through her portrayal of famous women such as Eleanor Roosevelt, Jackie Kennedy, artist Georgia O’Keefe, actress Bette Davis, and Chef Julie Child and others. She also has portrayed Betty Crocker, lectured on the history of the Barbie doll and on the life of airline stewardesses in the 1960’s in her portrayal as “Pan Am Betty.”

Goddard presents more than 400 performances and lectures each year to public libraries, professional associations and colleges/universities. She has served on the board of the Illinois State Historical Society, the Illinois Association of Museums and the Civil War Round Table of Chicago.

She is the author of three books on Chicago history: “Remembering Marshall Field’s,” “Lost Chicago Department Stores,” and “Chicago’s Sweet Candy History.”

Contributed Photo

International Thanksgiving Fellowship Program July 23 Ice Cream Social - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Andrea Hogue, left, and Margaret Hitzhusen, board members of the Geneseo International Thanksgiving Fellowship Program, are in charge of the July 23 Ice Cream Social at Geneseo City Park.
Desserts and ice cream will be served, beginning at 6 p.m., with music by the QC’s Big

River Brass Band beginning at 7 p.m.

Dessert donations are needed for the ice cream social and anyone interested in donating a baked item or in making a monetary donation is asked to contact Hogue at 309-945-2537

The 40-member BRBB plays in the style of European brass bands and draws literature from classic crass band repertoire, and classical, jazz and pop arrangements.

Since 1960 the Geneseo International Thanksgiving Fellowship Program has arranged home stays and professional educational appointments in the Geneseo and surrounding areas, including the Quad Cities, for short term international visitors and students. The GITFP board also works with International House in Chicago to arrange for interested guests and pairs them with hosts in our communities.

The Geneseo International Thanksgiving Fellowship Program returned last year with 10 guests, after a three-year hiatus as a result of the pandemic.

There is a need for host families for Nov. 27-Dec. 1 of this year. Questions and application information is available from Marcia Helke at 309-944-4486 or at gitfp60@gmail.com.

Andrea Hogue shared some comments about her family’s experience in hosting with the program and she said, “In our experience in the four times hosting, our family has made bonds that have lasted years with German, Chinese and Japanese students and young professionals. We hear from them regularly. It helped my kids understand the world is bigger than just us in our community.”

Margaret Hitzhusen added, “It gives us an opportunity to learn about other cultures and to showcase our wonderful community.”

Geneseo Historical Museum to Note 50th Anniversary at Garden Party - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Area residents are invited to a Garden Party to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Geneseo Historical Museum. The party will be from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 10, in the memorial gardens of the museum at 205 South State St., Geneseo.

Light refreshments will be served.

Melanie Rice, curator/director of the Geneseo Historical Museum, will serve as hostess. Rice was named to the post with the retirement of Angie Snook, who was named curator in 1996, but her involvement with the museum’s place in history started nearly 20 years earlier during her time as a volunteer and board member.

In addition to the Garden Party, the museum currently is featuring an exhibit of wedding dresses from the last century.

Rice said there are 103 wedding dresses in the exhibit which will be displayed at the museum through Aug. 31.

The museum is open to visitors from 10 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, or by appointment by calling 309-944-3043.

Information about the GHM from 2010 records state that the history of the museum dates back to 1972 when the Geneseo Historical Association's first museum consisted of two rooms in the caretaker’s home at Richmond Hill Park. Interest in the project was widespread and donations and membership grew quickly.

Vast amounts of memorabilia and artifacts came pouring through the doors. By 1976, the museum’s rooms were bursting at the seams and it was apparent the museum needed a new home.

Fortunately, the Geneseo Public Library (on State St.) had just moved into a new location and made the historic Hammond Library, built in 1898, available to the Historical Association as a permanent museum and it remained in that location for the next 20 years.

The story began to change in 1996 when once again, the museum was full and the association’s board became concerned about the future of the lease arrangement they had enjoyed with the library. An effort was launched to explore alternatives.

Once again, fortune smiled in the form of another building which was just coming on the market – a huge, Italianate structure almost directly across from the street of the location of their location. Not only was it much larger, but it also was of historical importance. The first of its bricks had been laid in 1855, just 20 years after the arrival of Geneseo’s first settlers. What had been, since the days of the Civil War, two joined homes were divided into four apartments early in the 1900’s. With 27 rooms and 9,000 square feet of usable space, this handsome mansion could easily display the museum’s existing treasures, with room to spare for an expanded office, storage and other amenities.

The memorial gardens at the rear of the Geneseo Historical Museum will be the setting for the upcoming Garden Party to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the museum. (Photo By Claudia Loucks)

History notes have it that “the structure and appointments (some of them original) were all in excellent repair.”

A TIMELINE – “RICHARDS – THEDE HOUSE’ – “THE GENESEO HISTORICAL MUSEUM”

-The north home (of what is currently the GHM) was built in 1855 by George Richards and Ann Cora Gilmore Richards. Mr. Richards served as president of the city board 1861-62 and joined the newly- formed Presbyterian Church as a charter member in 1863. They had one daughter, Georgian. George Richards was born in Vermont and listed in 1840 as one of Genesee’s early settlers. They were also part of the group of abolitionists to form the colony. The home was on the Freedom Trail for run-away slaves, and a hiding hole is still displayed in the basement of the home.

-Second home built around 1867 by two brothers – Hiram and George Wilson who were born in New York. At the time they were both associated with the First National Bank of Geneseo. George and his wife occasionally gave memorable social affairs, such as their daughter Emma’s wedding reception.

-James McBroom, another well-known businessman, was the next owner from 1921-1957. During this time period the home became four (later five) apartments.

-In 1957, Phyllis Gates, a nurse for Dr. Young bought the home. She saw that the “McBroom” home was lovingly cared for. Even with it being apartments, she maintained the grand interior and the home’s integrity. Its garden area was a show place. Mrs. Rosalie Thede inherited the beautiful home form her mother. She remained the owner until Nov. 1, 1996, when the Geneseo Historical Association purchased the home for the present museum.

-June 1, 1998, the museum opened its doors to the public.

-In 2009, a special addition to the museum was built for meetings, programs and children and adult classes. In April of 2010, the new “Stees-Keppy Education Addition” opened.

-In Oct. 2012, the “carriage house” project was started on the Center St. museum complex and it opened in July of 2013. The educational building for both young and old exhibits old carriages and sleights, Dan Patch horse racing memorabilia, Hennepin Canal racing boats, early agricultural tools and equipment, Native American displays and the children’s log cabin.

-The three-level carriage house opened its doors to the public in October of 2013.

Even though she will not be at the museum on a daily basis, the popularity of the programs she began while serving as curator will continue with programs she has scheduled for the next two years.

Snook was named curator in 1996, but her involvement with the museum’s place in history started nearly 20 years earlier during her time as a volunteer and board member.

She was instrumental in the purchase of the Italianate house for the museum, which had been located in the original Geneseo Public Library building on State St.

“As president of the Geneseo Historical Museum, I knew that house would be the perfect setting for the new museum,” she said.

The museum board submitted a bid to purchase the home and when that bid was opened by Rosalie Thede, owner of the home, Snook recalled Thede said, ‘That is what my mother always wanted.’”

In November of 1996 the Thede home became the Geneseo Historical Museum’s permanent home.

“We were working on a fund to pay for the new museum,” Snook said. “Don Stocks was the curator at that time and somehow found a way to save $113,000 during his 25-year tenure. The late Marie Lodge, a museum board member, gave the Historical Association a $100,000 loan “to get the museum up and going,” Snook said.

During the museum’s move from the “old library” to its new home, Stocks became ill and died.

Taylor Zvonic Receives Park District RESPECT Award - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Taylor Zvonic, Day Camp Manager for the Geneseo Park District, recently received the District’s RESPECT Award:

-R – Recreational, Health & Wellness Opportunities.

-E – Excellence.

-S – Safety.

-P-Positivity.

-Equitable – Creating an environment of inclusion for the whole community.

-C – Communication.

-T – Teamwork.

The letter of nomination for Zvonic, written by Nathaniel Hines, Recreation Program Manager for the Park District, states: “As the Day Camp Manager, Taylor has consistently demonstrated qualities that make her an outstanding leader and a true asset to our organization.”

“One of Taylor’s standout qualities is her ability to create a sense of community within the Day Camp. She goes above and beyond to create a welcoming environment where every camper feels valued. Taylor’s dedication to ensuring that each child’s experience is positive and enjoyable speaks to her commitment to the well-being of our campers. When looking at the Day Camp, you would be hard-pressed to find anyone who cares about the institution more, or who has contributed more to it……The experiences that she leads in facilitating clearly have a lasting impact on our campers that will last a lifetime.”

Zvonic is a 2022 graduate of Geneseo High School and will be a junior at Bradley University in Peoria, where she is majoring in Kinesiology and Health Sciences.

Bricks Available for Remembrance Path at Anderson Memorial Park - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Correspondent

The Anderson Memorial Park has deep meaning for the Howard Beck family of Geneseo.

The green space is tucked away at the corner of Main and Illinois St., and holds a memorial to Howard Beck’s wife, the late Joni Beck, who died in 2022.

The memorial pathway with meditation area provides a means for him to honor his wife in a quiet and peaceful setting.

The memorial bricks are available to purchase through the Geneseo Park District Foundation.

Each paver is engraved with up to three lines of type with a maximum of 19 characters per line, including spacing, punctuation and special characters.

The pavers are ordered two times per year with Aug. 1 as the next deadline for orders, and the bricks ordered at that time will be installed by Nov. 1, weather permitting.

The Geneseo Park District will place the pavers along the pathway. Cost is $150 for a 4” x 8” brick paver and orders may be placed at geneseoparkdistrict.org/foundation and when at that site, click on the toggle at the top that reads “pavers.”

Joni Beck was employed at Geneseo Communications for many years and the ground for the initial part of Anderson Park was donated to the Geneseo Park District in 1999 from the Anderson family members who were connected to the telephone company. A second lot became part of the park in 2017 and the trees, sundial, path, shed and statue were added in 2018. Lights and new signage were installed in 2019 and the Girl Scout Library Box was put in place in 2020 with the phone booth and the Joni Beck Remembrance Path becoming part of the park in 2023.

After his wife’s death in 2022, Howard Beck approached the Park District with his idea of creating a Remembrance Path in the Anderson Park. It was his donation in memory of his wife that made it possible to create the pathway and stone sitting area in the park.

The path is lined with paver bricks to honor a loved one or commemorate a special occasion.

Beck shared how the idea for the pathway and mediation area came about…”Joni and I talked about what she wanted as a memorial while she was alive,” he said. “She told me that I should just do a memorial for her in Anderson Park. After she passed, I went to the park and looked at the options of doing something as a memorial for her.”

The Joni Beck Memorial Pathway and stone structure with a meditation area are the result of his thoughts and his donation.

Beck said, “I felt that this being a Memorial Park, there should be more opportunities for people to honor their loved ones in some way and the Pathway provides that opportunity.”

Foster Hope Hosts Annual Try-A-Kayak Event - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Between 50 to 60 children in foster care were entertained at the fourth annual “Try-A-Kayak” event held Sunday, July 7, at the Izaak Walton League, outside of Geneseo.

“Just another example of Divine Intervention,” was how Lola Rahn answered when asked how the first “Try-A-Kayak” event for foster kids happened in 2021.

Photo By Claudia Loucks

She said, “I had wanted to offer an opportunity for kids in care to Kayak for awhile. I was thinking of doing something at Giant Goose, but we have only three kayaks.”

She received a message from a foster parent, Tim Eastman of East Moline, asking if Foster Hope would be interested in hosting a “Try-A-Kayak” event for foster kids…He has 20 kayaks!” Rahn said.

Eastman continues to assist with the event each year by managing the activities on the water, including providing the kayaks and life jackets.

Photo By Claudia Loucks

The event has grown each year and this year lunch, donated by Geneseo Fareway, was served to the foster children and foster parents.

In addition, ice cream sundaes were served and the day included additional activities from face painting and fishing supervised by volunteers from the Izaak Walton League, to yard games and therapy dogs from Legacy Therapy Dogs of the Quad Cities.

Photo By Claudia Loucks

Foster hope also presented each child with a beach towel, sun screen, book bag, an insulated lunch box, sandals and flip flops.

“God is good!” Rahn said. “He continually blesses Foster Hope.”

Photo By Claudia Loucks

Rahn, who with her husband, Ryan Rahn, founded Foster Hope in April of 2017, when they opened space at 107 South State St. in Atkinson, in the former Atkinson Grade School building, which is where foster parent training classes are held and where items needed by foster families are collected and distributed.

Foster Hope is a 501 c3 non-profit organization that supports foster families in the Quad Cities and surrounding areas. They rely on donations and sponsors for the many events and activities held for foster care families. For more information, email fosterhopeqc@gmail.com.

Photo By Claudia Loucks

Foster Hope currently serves families in Henry, Rock Island, Mercer and Whiteside counties.

Rahn said. “Our services are available to families licensed through Bethany for Children & Families, Center for Youth & Family Services, DCFS and Lutheran Social Services.”

In addition to the foster training classes, Foster Hope offers clothes (sizes newborn to 12/14), diapers, infant equipment and other items needed by children when placed in foster care.

Photo By Claudia Loucks

“We also host four annual events for families – Foster Parent Appreciation Dinner, Foster Parent’s Night Out, Celebration of Families Picnic and ‘Shopping for Siblings’ and the Try-A-Kayak activity is now our fifth annual event,” Rahn said.

Another activity, Toddler Tuesdays, is now offered in the winter months when the youngsters and foster parents can come to a play time in the school gym…”And we continue to add more activities,” Rahn said.

Photo By Claudia Loucks

Kent Lassman, GHS Graduate, Swims the English Channel - BY Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Nearly two and one-half years ago, Kent Lassman made a decision to try to swim the English Channel. His determination became a reality on June 11 when he joined the elite group of swimmers to successfully complete the 21-mile swim.

It took him 13 hours and 27 minutes to complete the long-distance challenge across the body of water located between England and France, a feat that less than 1,900 people have been able to accomplish in the last 150 years. The swim is not only a physical challenge, but also a mental challenge that requires positive thinking.

More than two years of preparation began in 2021 for Lassman, including signing a contract with a boat captain for June of 2024, the date he planned to swim the Channel.

“The captain sails those waters every day and he looks at weather reports, water currents and more,” Lassman said.

The weather was forecast to include a “little bit of rain and a little bit of bumpiness, but would calm down…The water would be great, according to the experts, but we were all wrong. If you are lucky, the current is behind you pushing you forward and I did not have that at all,” he said.

“We left from Shakespeare Cliff in Dover, England - the harbor we came out of. I got on the boat in Dover Harbor and was taken out of the harbor to below Shakespeare Cliff, about 100 yards out…I jumped off the side of the boat and swam to shore, climbed out of the water onto a rocky beach, turned around to face the boat and raised my arms in the air to signal the crew in the boat that I was clear of the water, not standing in the water. A handheld spotlight was shining on me to illuminate me as I swam to the shore. When I dropped my arms, the stop watch started. There was about one and one-half minutes of ceremony before the actual swim started.”

Lassman’s swim began at 2:07 a.m., England time, on Tuesday, June 11. The boat crew consisted of the captain, a first mate, one official observer, and two others who are Lassman’s friends.

“When I start swimming it is the boat crew’s job to navigate me,” he said. “They are in charge of everything but the swimming; they are in charge of safety and navigation. If there is ever an emergency I could swim to the boat or they could get to me.”

There are lights from the boar on Lassman while he is swimming in the dark, and he said, “I am trying to swim in a halo of light created by the boat. I am wearing goggles and there is also a light on the back of my head and on the back of my swim suit. That way, if I wander off from the boat, the crew can tell what direction I am going.”

It was predicted that the seas would be a little bumpy, but would calm down after 60 to 90 minutes and would be calm for about 15 hours, and there would be a light rain, a forecast that Lassman said was “completely wrong. There was no rain and the water became bumpier. In the morning there were waves, a current, a tide and a swell. The swell moves you up and down vertically and that was bad and made it so uncomfortable,” he said.

His food was prepared as a liquid, and Lassman described it as like “high end sugar water.”

He did feel sick from the turbulence of the water and he said he did not take the prepared liquid food, but was given some green tea with honey…’the crew is in charge and they knew what to give me.”

Of the 13 hours and 27 minutes that it took Lassman to swim the Channel, he said, "We had some pretty bad weather for about the first six hours….”I was expecting to do it in 14 hours so it was about what I expected, but I was prepared to go 30 hours if necessary, but I am glad I did not have to test the preparation. What happened was that we traveled about 33 miles and I only had to exert the effort of swimming for 21 miles because the current carried me some of the distance.”

When asked about the reward of swimming the Channel, Lassman shared, “It is the satisfaction and the feeling of accomplishment and I saw some amazing marine life, including one shark and different types of jellyfish. Sometimes you don’t need a specific reason to do something, you do it just because. The challenge and the opportunity to experience something amazing is reason enough.”

He didn’t just see the jellyfish, but admitted that he was stung by some and did not blame the jellyfish, but said, “As much as we prepare and take safety measures, I was in their (the jellyfish) home. The ocean is their home, I was the visitor and the jellyfish let me know I was the visitor.”

Lassman also was asked what his thoughts were while in the water, and he said, “You have no idea what is going to go through your head when you are in the water. It is a beautiful thing any day of your life to watch a sunrise, and it’s an especially beautiful thing to watch a sunrise over the water. It’s altogether different and remarkable to watch it from being in the water because the sun lifts over the horizon, over the thing you are in and it is really wonderful and the colors are breathtaking.”

“My mind wandered. I thought about my kids a lot, When you are doing something like that, your mind goes to the things you love the most, it might be scripture, family, favorite meal, favorite memory and what went through my mind was that I thought a lot about literature. These jellyfish are very pretty and it’s not like seeing them in a book. Also, light under water refracts, when overhead things look closer. Early in the day the light comes in the water form the side and you see creatures and they are tremendously beautiful. No photo in a book could do justice.”

“You have no idea what is going to go through your head when you are in the water, you are in the wild and you are part of the world of the wild.”

“I was also thinking about the jellyfish,” he said. “There are six species of jellyfish common to the English Channel, one species is the Compass Jellyfish and that made me remember my 10th grade Geometry class with Mrs. Hahn, (Jean Hahn, now retired from GHS). It has been 35 years since I was in that Geometry class but I thought about how she used big wooden tools, like a compass, protractor. She had the giant size that held pieces of chalk and each of the students had small ones on our desks. She was the expert; she could do it without looking. That lady loved what she was teaching and that came through in her teaching. When I saw the jellyfish I knew the name of the Compass Jellyfish and suddenly I remembered being a kid sitting in a classroom learning Geometry when I would rather have been outdoors.”

HOW THE IDEA TO SWIM THE ENGLISH CHANNEL CAME ABOUT:

The idea to swim the Channel was an idea of Lassman’s in his childhood, and he explained....”When I was 13, I went to a swimming camp at Indiana University (Bloomington, IN) where I was among hundreds of kids who swam every day. One evening all of us were in the university cafeteria watching a documentary about a man named James Edward “Doc” Counsilman, a famous Olympic swim coach and Big 10 coach who set out to become the oldest man to swim the English Channel in 1979. The documentary ended, the light came on and there he (Counsilman) was standing in the room and answered our questions. I thought ‘how awesome,’ and that was the first time I had the idea.”

Growing up in Geneseo, Lassman spent lots of time in the summer at the Geneseo pool and was a member of a summer swim team coached by Dr. Bruce Fehlman and Dr. Max McCaw…”I was eight or nine years old and that is how I started swimming competitively,” he said. “Our family also was part of a group of six families who owned a recreational area with a lake outside of Geneseo where I first started swimming.”

Lassman said swimming has always been a love of his and a refuge…”It is something that makes me happy, helps to keep me healthy and gets me outdoors, where I love to be.”

His swimming became competitive when he became part of the Moline Blue Marlins. He said, “Only a handful of local kids did that and I swam with the club team until high school and when I got to high school I started practicing with the United Township High School Swim Team (East Moline). Even though I was not a member of their team, I could swim with them. I worked out with the team before and after school.”

He credited former GHS Athletic Director, the late Del Nicklaus, and former GHS principal Ted McAvoy, for making it possible for him to compete in the Sectional Swim Meets and represent Geneseo High School. He competed at the Sectional level all of his four high school years.

After graduating from GHS in 1992, when the school was named JD Darnall High School, Lassman moved to Washington DC and attended the Catholic University of America where he majored in philosophy and politics. He graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in 1996 and began working in Washington, DC.

A few years after graduating from college, Lassman completed The Great Chesapeake Bay Swim which he explained is a 4.4-mile swim near Annapolis in the Chesapeake Bay. He later became involved in triathlons in the area…”Eventually I was doing some big races that included swimming,” he said. That kept me in contact with the open water swimming community and as a result I did some ocean races near Ocean City, MD, and in 2016 I signed up to do the ‘Swim Around Key West,’ a 12 1/2 –mile swim. I just find myself doing the really interesting ocean swims.”

“Two and one-half years ago, in November of 2021, I decided I was going to try to swim the English Channel,” he said.

A month later he signed a contract with a boat captain to accompany him, and Lassman added, “I had two and one-half years to get ready for my swim.”

He became more focused on training, including traveling to California from Virginia to swim the Catalina Channel, a 21-mile swim, which Lassman said “is similar to swimming the English Channel.”

“I did the Catalina Channel swim to learn to swim at nighttime,” he explained. “There’s an ‘Oceans Seven,’ which is a list of seven challenging ocean swims around the world. Only about two dozen people in the world have done all seven. That is special in that each swim requires one skill set that makes it really difficult. That’s why I did the Catalina Channel swim to learn to swim at nighttime and to be really comfortable with that I had to learn to swim in cold water for hours on end, both requirements to swim the English Channel. Once I had that under my belt, I learned a few more skills.”

Lassman said the Catalina Swim and the English Channel are the most prestigious on the list of seven swims….”Both have the most history, like Mt. Everest, it takes a complete package of skills and luck, so if you get to do it, you are really happy about it.”

When Lassman was asked “What’s next?” he said, “Nothing is planned, but I will keep on swimming on a regular basis as it is part of my life. It’s my time, when I clear my head and I will be swimming as long as I am physically able.”

He and his wife, Dana Damico, live in Alexandria, VA, and the couple has two sons and two daughters.

Lassman is the son of Sheila Lassman, Geneseo, and the late Lee Lassman. He has a brother, Kurt Lassman, and two sisters, Kristine Hitzhusen, Geneseo, and Kelley Lassman, New York City.

Kent Lassman graduated from Geneseo High School in 1992 and currently is president of the Competitive Enterprise Institute in Washington, DC, a think tank where the staff analyzes and makes recommendations regarding economic regulation. Contributed Photo

Richmond Hill Players to Stage Comedy-Drama - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Richmond Hill Players continue their 2024 season with the comedy-drama “84 Charing Cross Road,” adapted by James Roose-Evans from the book by Helene Hanff. The show will be presented Thursdays through Sundays, July 11-21, at the Barn Theatre in Geneseo.

Jennifer Kingry, Geneseo, directs the show.

ABOUT THE PLAY

A tale of transatlantic friendship, “84 Charing Cross Road” is based on the true story of the remarkable relationship that developed between a brassy American writer and a gentlemanly English bookseller. Just after WW11, English books were not only difficult to find in the States, they were prohibitively expensive, especially for a struggling female playwright living in New York City. A magazine ad prompted her first letter, an endearingly-blunt request with a five-dollar bill enclosed.

The friendship that bloomed almost instantly between Miss Helene Hanff in her NYC brownstone and Mr. Frank Doel in his London second-hand bookshop came to include his fellow bookstore employees. If her effusive camaraderie disarmed the Brits, their graciousness begat a family-like devotion in her own heart. For 20 years, letters and books flew back and forth across The Pond, as a moving account of friendship and kindness unfolded. The world today has little time for such things – in an age of texts, tweets, and TikTok, how rare is the quiet thrill of receiving handwritten personal letter?

The cast features Jackie Skiles, Susan Hopton, Jackie Patterson, John Simosky and Rolan Swanson, all of Geneseo; Mischa Hooker, Rock Island; Elissa Dynes, Kewanee; Mime Sweetser, Lyndon; and Jim Strauss, Davenport.

The staff includes stage manager Terri Nelson, Lynn Center; costumer Suzanne Rakestraw, crew person Janet VanDerSchaaf, light and sound designer/operator Jennifer Kingry, set builder Mike Skiles, all of Geneseo; set builder Jim Driscoll, Davenport; and set builder Jim Skiles, Colona.

Jackie Skiles and Jackie Patterson are among the cast members of the July production of the Richmond Hill Players.

On Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, the doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the show beginning at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows are 3 p.m. matinees with the doors opening at 2 p.m.

Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling the Richmond Hill box office at 309-944-2244 or by visiting the website at rhplayers.com.

Late seating is not permitted; no one will be admitted to the theater after the show has started.

Admission to all performances is $12.

An audio description performance will be held Friday, July 12. Richmond Hill also offers Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs), which can be requested at the time reservations are made.

Too Many Cats and Kittens at Geneseo Shelter - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Henry County Humane Society-Geneseo Shelter is at full capacity. The local shelter currently is a temporary home to nearly 100 kittens and cats who are hoping to soon find forever homes.

Linda VanDerLeest, a HCHS board member, said the Humane Society has about 100 cats and kittens and could use the help of the community to adopt, foster or make donations of scent-free cat litter or kitten food as well as monetary donations for the medical needs of the kittens and cats.

“We have cats and kittens of all sizes and colors,” VanDerLeest added. “Because of the large number of cats and kittens, the shelter also welcomes volunteers who would like to provide enrichment or just simply play with them.”

The first step in volunteering is to complete an application which is available online at https://www.henrycountyhumanesociety.org.

Guidelines are in place for adoption, foster care, visitors and volunteers. For more information, contact the Geneseo Shelter at 309-944-4868.

First Methodist Has A New Worship Director - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Joel Simpson left a job in IT to become worship director at First Methodist Church in Geneseo.

He said just hours after posting his résumé online at the beginning of this year; he was contacted by the Rev. Chris Ritter, directing pastor at First Methodist.

“I had never even heard of Geneseo before, but things progressed through the interviewing and hiring process and a few short months and a big move later, here we are,” he said.

Joel Simpson is the worship director at Geneseo First Methodist Church. Photo Claudia Loucks

Simpson has been involved in music since his teen years and he explained. He was born and raised in a small town in northwestern Wisconsin and attended the local public high school where he was part of the jazz band program, and also played bass in his church’s youth worship band.

While a student at the University of Wisconsin-Superior, he played music for student organizations and at a local church where he said he was “challenged by the worship director to seriously think about a full-time career in music ministry.”

After earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree at UW-Superior, Simpson attended Hillsong College, Sydney, Australia, to study the Bible and learn about music and church leadership.

He then returned to UW-Superior to complete a Master’s Degree while working part-time as a music associate at one church and took on the role of leading Saturday evening services at a second church in the area.

After graduating, Simpson returned to his home church in Wisconsin where he became worship director…”A year later, I followed my full-time career in IT to Madison, WI, where I also served as a volunteer musician for a new church plant,” he explained. “After five years in Madison, my employer relocated me to Rochester, MN, to work on projects with Mayo Clinic, where my wife, Clarissa, was a nurse.”

In addition to his fulltime IT job, he joined the staff of a church in Rochester as music director.

It was during those years in Rochester when Simpson said the responsibilities and travel requirements for his tech job continued to increase and he added, “These changes, along with a growing family, made it increasingly clear to us that it was time to move on.”

In addition to guitar, Simpson also plays bass and drums and added, “I also play saxophone, but that likely won’t make an appearance at church.”

As worship director, he is responsible to plan the flow of services, handle oversight of the AVL systems, schedule the music and teach teams, create digital media and often lead the congregation in singing…”I also bring quite a bit of graphics and IT experience and will be using those skills, as well,” he said.

He and his wife have two children and Simpson said, “We are happy to call Geneseo our home. We love Jesus, we love the Church, and we are grateful for the opportunity to be part of the First Methodist family. The congregation and community here have been incredibly welcoming and supportive. The New Testament points out that we should always continue to gather as the church, that we should sing to one another and from our hearts to the Lord, and that we should encourage one another as we follow Jesus in the way we live. As the worship director at First Methodist, my prayer is that we will see that kind of passionate worship and encouraging fellowship in our congregation and community, and the fruit of God’s Holy Spirit at work in each of us.”

Allison (Farrell) Cooney Submits Winning Entry in Dad-Daughter Golf Contest - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Allison (Farrell) Cooney loves playing golf, and she it is always on her bucket list to play golf in different countries. She recently won a contest that allows her to be doing just that…”But what makes it really special is this time I will be able to be able to do it with my Dad,” she said.

Cooney won the contest that was sponsored by Women’s Golf Digest and Carr Golf, through the social media platform Instagram that will send her and her Dad, Ron Farrell of Geneseo, on a trip to Kerry, Ireland, in July, where they will be playing golf at the Dooks Golf Club and the Waterville Golf Links.

“We won the contest to receive an all-expense paid entry into the tournament,” Cooney said, “But in Ireland, we will be competing against 35 father-daughter duos from six different countries.”

Golf has long been a big part of the Farrell family as parents, Ron and Lisa Farrell, and sister, Ashley, are avid golfers.

After graduating from GHS in 2012, Cooney earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business in Supply Chain Management from Western Illinois University, Macomb, before joining the work force in 2016. She also was on the golf team at Western.

While a student at GHS, Cooney played on the golf team and earned a spot at State in her senior year where she placed in the top 25 golfers.

She was the assistant golf coach at GHS from 2016 until 2023, when she and her husband, Robert Cooney, moved to North Carolina, where they live near Raleigh. She continues to play golf recreationally and said she and her husband play golf together several times a week.

In addition to playing golf, she also volunteers at a local golf course with the First Tee program…”I am helping teach five and six-year-olds skills they can use on the golf course as well as in life,” she said.

Allison’s Entry in Golf Contest – Why She Wanted to Play Golf with Her Dad in the Event

“At the age of 8 my Dad introduced me to the game of golf and sparked a life long passion. He has always, and will always, be my favorite golf partner. He started as my swing coach, and over time, those roles have reversed. I played college golf. 80 collegian rounds and my Dad never missed a swing. Since those days we've completed our "Spectator Grand Slam" to watch all four of the Men's Majors together. The feat was achieved at St. Andrews where my Dad took me on a golf trip of a lifetime to Scotland. I have since moved away from our hometown to pursue my dream of working in the golf industry. This means fewer rounds of golf together but makes the rounds we get that much more meaningful. Golf is much more than a game to both of us, but a way of life. Watching, playing, working, coaching - golf is always at the center of what we do together. Winning this would allow me to give my Dad just a small piece of what he has given me these past 20 years.”

Steve Scherer Was Grand Marshal of Music Festival Parade - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Steve Scherer is retired as the Geneseo High School band director, but in no way is he retired from the world of music.

He recently served as grand marshal of the 2024 Geneseo Music Festival Parade held on Father’s Day, a fitting role as music continues to be a major part of his life.

Zack Sullivan, executive director of the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce and event organizer for the Geneseo Music Festival, commented about the selection of Scherer as grand marshal and said, “Steve retired a few years ago as band director at Geneseo High School after decades of inspiring band students and sharing his gift of music with so many.”

  “Steve's retirement and contributions to the community marks a well-deserved honor, which is fitting to take place during the Geneseo Music Festival as Grand Marshal of the annual Father’s Day Parade in Geneseo,” Sullivan added.

After retirement as GHS band director, Scherer took a nine-month piano technician course and is certified to tune and repair pianos. He also is part of the music team (praise band) at Grace United Methodist Church in Geneseo.

Grandchildren also are a big part in Scherer’s life and at 7:30 on Monday though Friday mornings, he can be found at the home of his daughter and son-in-law, Allison and Bronson Good, where he entertains grandsons, Adler, 4, and Rowan, 2, and their 10-week-old sister Leonora, while their parents get ready for work.

In addition, Scherer and his wife, Jane Scherer, have a son, Jack, Chicago; and a daughter, Diana, who lives in Cardiff by the Sea, located outside of San Diego.

Steve Scherer(left) as Grand Marchal of the 2024 Geneseo Music Festival Parade.

He also spends time with his parents, taking them to all of their scheduled appointments. His father, Dick Scherer, is a resident in an apartment at Allure of Geneseo; and his mother, Annette Scherer, lives in the nursing home at Allure.

In 2021, after 34 years as a band director, Scherer stepped down as a band director. He was drawn to music in his childhood and said when he and his brother each received a Panasonic tape recorder for Christmas, he was fascinated with the technology and started recording all kinds of sounds for fun…”The next year we received a portable record player and two 45rpm records each. I would listen and marvel at how realistic the tones of each instrument sounded. At the end of fifth grade, when we could try out instruments for band starting the next school year, I knew I wanted to play one. I chose drums and percussion and I never stopped playing and still play today.”

He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Western Illinois University, Macomb, and a Master’s Degree from the University of Illinois in 2001. His first teaching job was in Bedford, IN.

He then took an adventurous break from teaching and moved to Austin, TX, to play and tour professionally in a rock band. Nine years later he and his family moved to Geneseo to raise their family.

That move was 30 years ago and Scherer first taught beginning band in Pleasant Valley, IA, for a year, before becoming the Director of Bands at Rock Island High School.

In 2002, his predecessor in Geneseo, Victor Bianchetta, retired, and Scherer applied for the position and was hired.

Catching Up With the 2023 Geneseo Music Festival Queen - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Hanna Stroud entered the Geneseo Music Festival Queen Pageant to carry on a family tradition.

She was crowned queen of the 2023 pageant held last June in City Park, a title her mother, Sara (Terronez) Stroud, also won when she graduated from GHS in 1995.

The pageant is sponsored each year by Geneseo Rotary Club and is open to graduating GHS senior girls.

Hanna Stroud, daughter of Brian and Sara Stroud, was crowned queen of the 2023 Geneseo Music Festival Queen Pageant. This year’s pageant is at 7 p.m. on Friday, June 14, in Geneseo City Park. Photo by Claudia Loucks

Hanna said her initial reason for entering the pageant last year was “because my mother did it when she was in high school and won. I wanted to keep the tradition of at least participating in the pageant and I ended up winning which was pretty special.”

Another reason she shared was because “it seemed like a fun opportunity to possibly get some money for college and a great way to become involved in the community.”

She admitted that prior to pageant night, she was a bit hesitant…”I am an introvert and had never done a pageant before. I was convinced to do the pageant last year and I am so thankful. It not only made me realize that I should do things outside of my comfort zone, but also that I don’t have to have had experience or be super outgoing to participate. Everyone was super supportive of all of the girls and the whole weekend was so exciting!”

When asked about her thoughts and memories of last year’s event, Stroud said, “The experience as a whole was amazing. It sparked connections with people that I hadn’t talked to in a while and I even met new people.”

She shared memories of pageant night and said she was “full of emotions. There was nervousness, excitement, and happiness all at the same time. When we walked out on stage for the first time and I saw everyone watching, it felt surreal. I knew that everyone was there to support me, but it can be hard to get up in front of people and be vulnerable about yourself, but it was totally worth it.”

She said she “loved every second of it and the emotions are what makes it even more fun. It also is good practice for other scenarios in life like job interviews or presenting at a press conference. It relates to other aspects of the life and that is another bonus!”

The queen and court make appearances at other events during the Music Festival weekend spending time with people in the community and visiting with them…”The City Park was filled with vendors, pop-up tents and so much to see,” Stroud recalled.

Many small businesses owners also are in the park offering food items and there is live music. Stroud said,”Seeing people gathering at the different activities was refreshing when we know how busy life can get. The Music Festival weekend is now one of my favorites in Geneseo!”

Stroud was a student at the University of Iowa in the last school year and she said, "I loved it! I joined a couple of clubs and made new friends. I love Iowa City itself and definitely will be visiting there next year.”

She is transferring to Black Hawk College to study nursing and she said, “I could not be more excited for this year and I can’t wait to see what God has in store.”

Geneseo Music Festival Queen Pageant Is June 14 - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Ten Geneseo High School graduating senior girls have entered the 2024 Geneseo Music Festival Rotary Queen Pageant.
They are Jillian Beneke, Kelsey Dillie, Addison Dykstra, Kylie Maertens, Molly Neumann, Madison Ochs, Leah Roemer, Madison Thompson, Ella Toom and Amelia Vandemore. The pageant will be at 7 p.m. Friday, June 14, in City Park when the queen and court will be crowned.
The pageant is sponsored by the Geneseo Rotary Club, and club members will be serving desserts and beverages beginning at 5:30 during the festivities in the park on June 14.
The queen and members of the court will receive cash awards and those candidates not in the court will receive Geneseo Chamber of Commerce gift certificates, all provided by the Rotary Club

Jillian Beneke

Kelsey Dillie

Addison Dykstra

Kylie Maertens

Molly Neumann

Madison Ochs

Leah Roemer

Madison Thompson

Ella Toom

Amelia Vandemore

Cooper Schaad Receives Aviation Scholarship - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Cooper Schaad, a 2024 graduate of 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.

He is the son of Jason and Gwen Schaad, Geneseo.

Cooper Schaad, third from left, is the recent recipient of a full scholarship for flight training to obtain his private pilot license from the Experimental Aircraft Association and the Ray Aviation Scholarship program. With Schaad are his father, Jason Schaad, at left; Nathan Dunker, Geneseo, who received the 2023 Experimental Aircraft Association Scholarship, presenting the 2024 Scholarship check to Schaad, and Schaad’s mother, Gwen Schaad, at far right. Contributed Photo

The Ray Aviation Scholarship program provides up to $11,000 scholarships to young people who are seeking to learn to fly. The Ray Foundation has provided $1.8 million 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.

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

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

Since its introduction in 2019, the EAA Ray Aviation Scholarship program has allowed over 350 youths to complete their flight training and receive their pilot licenses. The program has been consistently meeting and exceeding its expected 80 % success rate each year.

Schaad will be training at Quad-City 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.

GHS Building Trades House Complete and For Sale - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The one-story ranch home, constructed by students in Building Trades Classes at Geneseo High School, is complete and is offered for sale by Jay Pettit of Hazelwood Homes.

Six students in the building trades classes completed the construction with help from Travis Mackey, Career and Technical Education Center Director for the Geneseo School District; Bryan Stone, GHS Vocational Instructor; and with help from employees of Hazelwood Homes, Inc., Today’s Builders, Durian Builders, Wirth Plumbing and VanOpdorp Electric.

The three-bedroom home features two full bathrooms; a walk-in closet in the master suite and custom tile shower in the Master bathroom; open concept kitchen with quartz countertops, dining room and great room with vaulted ceilings and a gas fireplace with stone face and custom mantel in the great room; 16’ x 12’ covered rear porch and large covered front porch with stonework on the walls.

There is a crawl space with full-sized door for access and poured concrete floor; low maintenance Pella vinyl windows; three-car garage with zero-step accessible entry and insulated overhead doors with openers and door opening into back yard.

The 1,568 square foot- home, at 851 East St. in Geneseo, is being offered for sale at $382,000, and anyone interested in more information is asked to contact Jay Pettit at 309-441-5184. Pettit said any profit made from the sale of the house will be returned to the Building Trades Program at GHS.

Mackey said he is pleased with the interest in the program and plans are to build another home next year…”We already have 12 students signed up for the program.”

He explained that the building trades program was at one time “a staple in the Career and Technical curriculum, but was then removed for several years…”We are very excited to have it back,” he added. ‘The students and instructor Bryan Stone worked very hard on the project this year.”

Stone was hired in 2016 to teach a building trades program that did not have much participation or support, he said…”For two years we did odd jobs in the community and the program was shut down in 2018. We have been working hard to revamp the program to get it back, and with the help of several local businesses and contractors, a nearly-all-new school board, Mr. Travis Mackey’s and Bob Pettit’s dedication to the program, it happened!”

Stone added, “The program is so much bigger and better than I think any of us thought it would be. The community took notice that we needed this program and with the help of everybody, it’s more than back!”

With the help of Hazelwood Homes, Durian Builders and Today’s Builders, Mackey said, “We were able to stay on track and finish the house before the end of the school year. A special thank you goes to Damon Willaert who helped with the project on a regular basis and worked closely with Mr. Stone and the students.”

Completion of the house also was possible with donations of materials, labor, and furnishings from Chicago St. Decorating, Village Home Stores, Fireplaces Plus, Sullivan Door Co., Connor Co., Comfort Concepts, Anchor Lumber, Crossroads Supply, Edwards Ready Mix, Riverstone Group, J.L. Hardscape, Elite Concrete, Elite Siding & Gutters, River City Pella, Premier Plaster and Drywall, Eller Construction, Advent Painting, Vern’s Home Improvement, VanOpdorp Electric, Steve’s Mirror & Glass, Wirth Plumbing & Heating and Lona Dekezel.

An open house for school district staff was held recently at the Geneseo School District building trades home located at 851 East St. in Geneseo. Posing for a photo in the kitchen area of the home are, from left, Travis Mackey, Career and Technical Education Center Director; Bryan Stone, GHS Vocational Instructor; Alexis Clementz, Alex Davis, Kade VanOpdorp, William Hamerlinck and Luke Abrahamsen-Collins, students in the GHS Building Trades Program. Karson Bannister also is in the school building trades program, but was absent for the photo. Photo by Claudia Loucks

Geneseo Man to be Inducted Saturday into Senior Olympics Hall of Fame - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Mike Cherry has competed in the Quad City Senior Olympics since 2008, and will be participating again this year, on Saturday, June 1, at Augustana College. He has won medals every year, but this year he will receive more than medals.

Eighty-six-year-old Cherry will be competing in the track and field events Saturday afternoon, after which he will be inducted into the Quad City Senior Olympics Hall of Fame.

He said the dinner ceremony will begin at 4:30 in the Ken Anderson building on the Augustana College football field.

In the years he has competed, Cherry has captured medals in the high jump, shot put, weight throws, discus and javelin.

“There are always lots of different events to try at the Olympics,” he said, “and I like to try pretty much everything in the track and field division.”

“I used to do some of the running events and once when I started the 50-yard dash, I took off and fell down, so no more running events,” he said.

Having received close to 100 medals in the years he has competed, Cherry said it isn’t just the medals, but the fact that so many of his family members attend the competition.

“My daughter-in-law-Karen Cherry had red shirts made that read “Team Cherry” on the front.

When asked how he keeps in shape to be able to compete in the athletic events, he said, “I am busy all the time, doing gardening and woodworking and I just keep busy. I don’t like to just sit around.”

He was out for track and competed in the high jump, mile run and two-mile relay when he was a student at Geneseo High School (formerly JD Darnall High School). He graduated in 1957, and he and his wife Mary Jo, are parents to two sons, Mark (Karen) Cherry, Anthony, FL; and Mick (Teresa) Cherry, Geneseo; five grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Prior to his retirement, Cherry worked in construction and later was assistant manager at Blain’s Farm & Fleet in Geneseo for 20 years.