GHS Junior Kye Weinzierl Notches 100th Win at Wrestling Conference Finals - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The 2024-2025 Geneseo High School wrestling season is a season to remember for team members and coaches.

In less than two months of the current season, three wrestlers have reached the 100-win-mark, and most recently, Kye Weinzierl, a junior at GHS, joined the two seniors who hit that goal, Tim Sebastian in December, and Devan Hornback in January.

Weinzierl, son of Brad and Jami Weinzierl, reached the elite group at the Western Big 6 Conference Finals held Jan. 31 in Sterling, when he wrestled Deanthony Simpson of Moline.

The 175-pound Weinzierl said a memory he has of that night “was when I walked off the mat and my teammates, coaches, and family all congratulated me. All of the Geneseo fans had 100-2in signs and it meant a lot to see al of that support.”

Kyle Weinzierl not only claimed a championship at the Western Big 6 Conference wrestling meet, he also reached his 100th-win. Submitted Photo

When asked his thoughts about wrestling being an individual sport, Weinzierl agreed, but added, “Wrestling is an individual sport, but having a great supporting staff of teammates is what makes you better everyday. I have been blessed with amazing teammates who are always there for me and each other.”

He began wrestling when he was in preschool and continues to be involved in the sport as well as in football and baseball.

“I chose to wrestle because I have a lot of energy and love to push myself day-in and day-out,” he said.

It’s evident with his success that wrestling is a very important part of the young athlete’s life and he said, “Wrestling means a lot to me. I have made so many great friends from it over the years and love the challenge of pushing myself every day to become a better person on and off the mat. Our coaching staff has impacted my career a tremendous amount. They are there for me during my highs and lows and they push me to be better every day.”

Weinzierl shared a favorite memory from his many years of wrestling was “going to tournaments every weekend with my Dad when I was little.”

He has qualified for the State wrestling competition in both his freshman and sophomore years at GHS…In my sophomore year, my goal was to place and I came up short,” he said. “Coming up short has fueled me to push myself and get better every day.”

His advice to younger wrestlers is “Stay with it, it’s not always easy but the work will pay off eventually.”

When asked about his favorite food, he answered, “Steak.”

He also shared when the wrestling season is over, he looks forward to “playing baseball, lifting weights and eating a lot of food.”

Geneseo’s Friday Night Victorian Walk Becomes a Saturday Christmas Walk Tradition

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Christmas Walk tradition continues not only in Geneseo, but also with a Geneseo family who was instrumental in the Walk’s beginning.

The late Linda Kutsunis, who with her husband, George Kutsunis, founded Four Seasons and Pegasus Fine Gifts stores in Geneseo, is one of the people who was involved with the Walk in its infancy, 39 years ago, and who helped make it the success it is today.

The couple’s daughter, Katie Kutsunis, has taken over the reins of the businesses as her mother has passed and her father is semi-retired.

Katie Kutsunis also has continued in her mother’s footsteps in working to make the annual Christmas Walk a success, and she said, “Geneseo’s Christmas Walk has evolved over the years and has expanded; it just keeps getting better and better.”

In checking with Zack Sullivan, executive director of the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce, as to whether or not the Christmas Walk happened during the Covid pandemic, it did indeed happen, and he said, “Yes, the event happened during Covid, in 2020, as a hybrid live and virtual event. We did the Lighted Parade city-wide, but the tree lighting was done virtually.”

Linda Kutsunis

In an interview six years ago with the late Linda Kutsunis, she shared how her volunteer work began with the Christmas Walk. She said the event had been in existence for a couple of years when a good friend of hers, Judy Deutsch, who was on the Chamber of Commerce board at that time, told her the Chamber was looking for someone to take over chairmanship of the Walk and encouraged Kutsunis to fill that spot, and Kutsunis said, “yes.”

In our earlier conversation, Kutsunis said she never regretted saying “yes” to the Walk and she began the challenge by soliciting help from the late Clyde Walter, who at that time was Director of the Chamber.

They developed a committee and met nearly every week.

Linda Kutsunis spearheaded the Walk efforts until 1991 when she opened Pegasus, and relied more on her Walk Committee. The group planned many fundraisers, including bringing a circus to town on summer to raise money for the then “Victorian Walk.”

In my interview with Linda Kutsunis before her death, she described the Victorian Walk as a time of hoop skirts and high-laced shoes…a team of horses and buggies and bicycles built for two….and her quote at that tine, “Even though it has become the Christmas Walk, it remains a magical time of year.”

The things that made America special and great have been forged, nurtured and cherished in small towns just like Geneseo, including events like the Christmas Walk.

The Christmas Walk was known as the Victorian Walk until 2008 when it became the Christmas Walk, and Linda Kutsunis referred to both events as a “unique experience.”

The first Victorian Walk in Geneseo was held during the pre-Christmas season of 1985, the brainchild of Ann Ruble, who, with her husband, ran the Décor Shop in downtown Geneseo. Ruble had seen what was being done in the Village of East Davenport and after talking to some of the participants there, she decided a similar event on a slightly larger scale would be a natural fit for Geneseo.

For many years Geneseo’s Victorian Walk was held on a Friday night in December, and the date was later changed to Saturday to accommodate people.

In the beginning years, Geneseo received funding from the Illinois Tourism for the Victorian Walk, but that money slowly dwindled down to nothing.

The cost of the Walk is now covered by sponsorships and donations and the dedicated volunteers and loyal sponsors continue to make the Walk a magical time in Geneseo.

Kutsunis said the Victorian Walk was never meant to be a “money maker,” but rather a gift from the community to the people in the community and to the visitors who come each year from miles around. The Christmas Walk is an opportunity to showcase our wonderful Geneseo. It’s another day and another age in Geneseo.”

A CONVERSATION WITH KATIE KUTSUNIS

Katie Kutsunis said, “My Mom, Linda Kutsunis, loved the time she spent volunteering and leading the Christmas Walk Committee. I am honored to be a part of this event every year. My Mom loved Christmas and this event is the perfect way to celebrate this time of year.”

She credits the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce for the success of the Walk, and said, “The Geneseo Chamber of Commerce works so hard to plan an event that showcases our shops and restaurants and gives visitors a beautiful and fun way to enjoy a small town holiday experience.”

She added, “The business community really comes together to roll out the red carpet for the Geneseo Christmas Walk and we invite everyone to plan on attending and joining in the festivities.”

Katie Kutsunis shows some of the Christmas decorations at Pegasus Fine Gifts. The theme of the 2024 Christmas Walk was “Too Many Santas.” Photo by Claudia Loucks

The new holiday Christmas Tree, located on the corner of the boulevard at State and Second Sts., recently was introduced to the community, and Kutsunis said, “The City of Geneseo will showcase the new holiday Christmas Tree which is a gorgeous new addition for our beautiful town. Everyone should plan on taking a picture in front of the new iconic addition to Geneseo.”

The lighted parade is a huge attraction of the Walk, and immediately after the parade, people can browse the shops and see the living windows.

Kutsunis said, “Geneseo is truly magical at the holidays and the Geneseo Christmas Walk is the pinnacle of the holiday season,” Kutsunis said.

This story was previously published in the January 2025 edition of the Current Scene

 

Baby Bottle Blitz 2025 Benefits Pregnancy Resources

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current


Sandy French, Geneseo, a volunteer with Pregnancy Resources, shows the baby bottles available to area residents, who are asked to fill the bottles with contributions which will benefit Pregnancy Resource Centers. Photo by Claudia Loucks

Sandy French of Geneseo is a services coordinator at Pregnancy Resources and each year she helps the non-profit organizations to raise funds through the Baby Bottle Blitz, where empty baby bottles are distributed and returned with contributions used to provide services and supplies at the Pregnancy Resource Centers.

There are Pregnancy Resource Centers in Moline and Davenport, the mobile van, and an office has been opened on Thursday afternoons at the QC Mission, 2015 2 W Ave., East Moline.

French’s work with Pregnancy Resources has helped her heal from a part of her past that she considers a “mistake. It is her hope to help others from not making the same decision she made many years ago.

She said she never expected to be telling her story, but God had a different plan.

Nearly 50 years ago French had an abortion and she shared, “It was the worst decision I ever made. I was 18 and abortion had just become legal in this country.”

Promoting the baby bottle campaign is just one of the ways French is involved with Pregnancy Resources, and she said, “The baby bottle campaign currently is underway and anyone interested in helping by donating can obtain an empty bottle at Grace United Methodist Church, 318 North Center St. in Geneseo, or at either of the two Pregnancy Resource Centers, 3825 16th St., Moline, or 2706 West Central Park in Davenport.”

The baby bottles can be filled with change, bills or checks.

For more information, contact Liz Ryan, partner development coordinator for Pregnancy Resources, at 309-797-3636, or French at 309-441-5839.

Families are encouraged to keep the baby bottles for three to four weeks and then return them.

From the radio is how French learned about Pregnancy Resources needing volunteers.

“It seemed I heard it every time I turned on the radio,” she said. “Finally I said, ‘Okay God. I’ll take the training.’ At the first session I admitted I had had an abortion. After the training, I thought I had many reasons not to volunteer, but He kept up the pressure.”

Before she could meet with clients, she had to take the Post-Abortion Counseling and Education Bible study class, “Forgiven and Set Free.”

“I thought I didn’t need it, I had made my peace with God, but to help others, I needed to complete the Bible study myself…I found that God wanted me to help others and to do that I was going to have to tell them about my experience, not just about my abortion, but also my healing experience. But I still said I would never tell my loved ones.”

In 2010 she did tell her family, and said her honesty has opened new doors of communication with them.

Pregnancy Resources provides a variety of free services enabling clients to choose life, French said, from pregnancy tests, limited ultrasounds, parenting programs, adoption education, abortion education, maternity clothes, car seats, diapers, abstinence education for individuals, to beginner Bible studies and post-abortion grief assistance.

“Our ultrasound program is important for women tying to make a decision about their pregnancy, and it helps them to connect with their child,” French said.

Post-abortion Bible studies benefit women and men, French said….”We have people come to the Bible studies who had an abortion as long as 50 years ago, before they were legal. I believe the studies let them know they are not alone. God can use them and abortion is not an unforgivable sin.”

She said Pregnancy Resources helps people see beyond the crisis of the moment…”If 50 years ago I had gone somewhere like Pregnancy Resources, I would not have had an abortion.”

“Almost weekly, on my volunteer shifts, a young woman comes in for a pregnancy test. She might be crying, not knowing what to do. I am able to listen to her, care about her, offer physical resources to help her in her pregnancy, and also spiritual resources by sharing God’s truth about life and His plan for salvation,” French shared.

Often times, young man call about parenting classes, specifically for fathers.

“I was able to get them signed up,” she said. “The classes are not only available, but free. We are able to provide these free resources because of individuals, churches, groups and businesses that donate. And I am able to meet and speak to so many women and men that I would never see otherwise and offer them God’s love, and I love that!”

“It’s really a privilege to try and see them as God sees them. I volunteer at Pregnancy Resources to bless others, and I end up being blessed so much,” she added.

French was employed as a secretary at Rock Island Arsenal for three years, and for 30 years as a secretary and marketing-publications coordinator at Deere & Co., Moline, retiring in 2007.

She and her husband, Art French, have three daughters, one son; eight grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Devan Hornback Hits the 100-Win Mark in Wrestling Matches - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Geneseo High School senior Devan Hornback reached the elite at the recent Geneseo Wrestling Invitational when he scored his 100th win in the sport.

Hornback, who wrestles at 132 pounds, was aware that the match at the Geneseo Invite could be his 100th win, and that is something that will be a lasting memory for him… “I knew before the tournament that I was one more win away from 100. After my match, my family and teammates held 100-win signs up while Coach (Jon) Murray brought my poster out to me and they announced it over the speakers.”

Devan Hornback. His parents are Chris and Brandy Hornback and Valerie and Chris Sauerbrei. Geneseo Current Photo

His goal is to wrestle at State this year and he added, “My goal is to not only make it down there this year, but to bring some hardware home.”

He began wrestling when he was in third grade and has been a four-year starter for the GHS wrestling team.

“I chose the sport because I enjoy challenging myself and I get to be around people who push each other to be their best, he said.

When he was asked to comment about wrestling as an individual sport, Hornback said, “Even though it’s an individual sport, we come in day-in and day- out and work our hardest. If it wasn’t for my teammates, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Devan is not the only wrestler in the Hornback family as his brother also wrestled for GHS and went on to be named an All-American at 125 pounds at Coe College, Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

The standout athlete also played football this past season.

“All of my coaches have had a really positive impact on me with not only how they’ve coached, but how they have made me a better person,” Hornback said. “Coach Murray has always instilled in us to be good men off the mat and on the mat.

He shared his favorite memory from wrestling at GHS is “when we took home the fourth place Team State Trophy in my sophomore year.”

When he graduates this spring, Hornback plans to join the Army National Guard and then become part of the wresting team at Central College in Pella, Iowa.

He was asked to share some advice to younger wrestlers and he said, “Go out there and just have fun and do your best because it goes by faster than you would ever think.”

Hornback said his favorite food is “steak and rolls form Texas Roadhouse and I look forward to eating a lot of food and finishing up high school after wrestling season.”

Geneseo Teacher and Coach Jon Murray Retiring from Teaching and Coaching Wrestling, But Not from Girls’ Golf

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Jon Murray is retiring from teaching and coaching wrestling at Geneseo High School, but will continue to coach girls’ golf at GHS, and even though he is retiring, he leaves behind a legacy of success and impact. His achievements are not only significant, but will continue to influence others.

His success as a wrestling coach is known through out the Midwest and when asked about his decision to retire from both teaching and coaching wrestling, he said, “It’s been 33 years so with two years of banked sick leave, I can now retire from teaching will full retirement benefits. I decided to retire from coaching wrestling at the same time. That’s like a full time job in itself and I’m, ready to have some spare time. Also, the wrestling program is currently in a good place which is how I’ve always wanted to leave it.”

Thursday’s home wrestling meet at GHS will be bittersweet for Jon Murray(Center in white) as it is the final home meet for the GHS wrestling team where he will be leading them as their head wrestling coach. Murray is retiring from coaching wrestling and from teaching at GHS. Geneseo Current Photo

He will continue to coach girls’ golf and explained that the time commitment to coaching golf isn’t as much as wrestling and he will be coaching golf with his daughter Eryn Murray.

He added,” We lost about half of our golf team to graduation this past season, so it’s going to be tough without them. A goal of mine is to bring back our team to a competitive level where we once again are claiming conference and regional championships.”

His teaching carrier began with eight years at Geneseo High School followed by two years at United Township High School in East Moline and concluding with 23 years back at GHS.

His wrestling coach position began as eight years as an assistant coach at GHS, then two years as an assistant coach at UTHS and the last 23 years as head coach at GHS.

He began coaching girls’ golf in 2014 as an assistant coach for two years and became head coach two years later.

In his beginning years of teaching, Murray coached boys’ and girls’ cross country, wrestling, and boys’ track; was an assistant soccer coach for two years when he returned to GHS in 2002.

He coached in the State Tournament in both boys’ and girls’ cross country, track and field, girls’ golf, and both in individual and dual team wrestling State Tournaments.

As a wrestling coach, including the two years at UTHS, Murray has coached over 100 state qualifiers, 36 All-State wrestlers and four State Champions, and he has been part of 10 team conference championships and 10 team regional championships.

“We have been in the top eight in the State five of the last 12 years including dual team state runner-up finishes in 2013 and 2014 and we are currently ranked #4 in the State in 2025.”

His success as a wrestling coach has not gone unnoticed as Coach Murray was inducted into the Illinois Wrestling Coaches and Officials Association (ISWCOA) Hall of Fame in 2023.

Wrestling has been part of Murray’s life for 50 years, beginning when he was in first grade at Ellis YMCA in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where his Dad helped coach.

“I wrestled all the way through five years in college and have been coaching it ever since,” he said.

He was a three-time Midwest Conference Champion and four-time NCAA Division III National Qualifier for Illinois College (Jacksonville, IL) and was inducted into the college’s Hall of Fame in 2012.

When asked what made him choose Geneseo to teach and coach, he said, “I had just graduated from Illinois College in May of 1992 and was looking for a job. I attended Geneseo schools from sixth through ninth grades, and just long enough to know Ted McAvoy as my teacher in Electricity class during my freshman year at GHS. Don Frederichs (teaching and coaching at GHS at the time) just happened to take off to Utah a couple of weeks before school started in August of 1992. I immediately drove five hours to Ted McAvoy’s (who was GHS principal at the time) office the morning after I heard this and told him I wanted that job. He set up an interview with me the following morning and called me on Monday to hire me. School started the following Monday! It all just kind of fell into place.”

Murray also was asked to share some memories from teaching and coaching that he will take with him into retirement, and he said, “Probably the greatest part of teaching and coaching here is the tremendous community support; we’ve always had great boosters and fans. Furthermore, I’ve been lucky enough to surround myself with amazing assistant coaches who have made this job easier and have contributed to our success and sustainability. I’m not sure I could have lasted this long without them.”

“As for favorite memories, there have been many, but one that kind of represents the overall experience was walking out onto the floor of the arena for the final round of the Dural Team State Tournament in 2013 to the cheering of our fan section. It literally sent chills down my spine and tears into my eyes. I’ll never forget that feeling and have been lucky enough to have multiple other great moments as well.”

He and his wife Ami have a son, Sam, 26; daughter, Eryn, 22, and one grandson.

“I met my wife Ami during my first year of teaching and in my first season of coaching which happened to be a cross-country meet,” he said. “Her brother, Andy Snook, was a senior on the team at that time. She was teaching in Nora Springs, Iowa, at the time and would come to watch Andy run occasionally. Also, Ami’s Dad, Mel Snook, was the head coach and I was his assistant, so he introduced us. Our conversations led to marriage and eventually our two children…On a side note, Andy became the first ever All-State athlete that I ever coached that year placing 11th at the State Cross Country Meet.”

Murray’s retirement plans include “spending days on the golf course, on a lake or river fishing, hiking with the dogs, mountain biking and hanging out with my grandson.”

 

Geneseo Wrestler Tim Sebastian Reaches 100 Wins - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Tim Sebastian’s name will long be remembered at Geneseo High School. The 126-pound varsity wrestler recently marked his 100th win at the Rockford East Wrestling Tournament held in December.

Sebastian, a senior at GHS, is among just 23 wrestlers who have reached the 100-win mark in the school’s history and it is something he said he hadn’t ever really thought about…”It’s a huge accomplishment that not many people achieve, and I never really thought about it,” he said. “Most of the guys that hit that mark were legends, and I didn’t see myself in that category at the time.”

Even though he hadn’t thought about the Rockford East match being his opportunity to hit 100 wins, Sebastian admits it was a thrilling moment when he realized what had happened…”It was exciting. I was pretty tired; the kid from Wisconsin was a really tough match. I knew I was close to 100, but didn’t know for sure that was the one until I saw all my teammates there supporting me with signs.”

Submitted Photo

That was a special moment for the standout wrestler and he said, “The energy they (his teammates) gave him when he came off the mat and the all the guys were there congratulating me and pumping me up! Knowing they were there for me meant a ton.”

When asked about wrestling considered an individual sport, Sebastian said, “We train together all year round, helping each other get better,” he added. “You can’t be selfish. You grow together as a team. Your accomplishments are team accomplishments, because everyone plays a part in it. We have dual meets and tournaments, and team scores are tracked.”

Sebastian’s wrestling career began when he was a second grader and he credits his three older brothers (Noah, Luke and Joe) for his interest, who were all involved in wrestling at that time.

“I wanted to be like them,” he said. “I tagged along with Joe to club practices and just started rolling around on the mats with the guys.”

Geneseo Current Photo

He also described himself as a roughneck little kid who would always challenge his big brothers, didn’t matter that they were two to three times his size.

Wrestling most definitely has been a family affair in the Sebastian household as Tim’s dad, Brian Sebastian, a 1985 GHS graduate, was on the GHS wrestling team and was a state qualifier in the sport.

Sebastian also was asked to share something about how his coaches made an impact on his journey to reaching success, and he said, “Going to Blue Line with Coach (Jessie) Montez was huge for me; I really developed as a wrestler there and learned how to push past my limits. Coach (Jon) Murray has helped me a ton with his technique and experience. We have a lot of great coaches in Geneseo helping us grind and get better every day.”

It is evident that wrestling plays a big part in the young athlete’s life and he admits, “It’s a big part of me. The relationships that you make go beyond a season or year. Fun times. I found that through hard work I could have better results. During the season I pretty much lock in, wrestling is all I really think about. It drives me to want to be better. It’s a lot of pain and suffering, but the results make it all worth it. It’s my lifestyle. Working out, daily strength and core training, eating right, club practices - everything is focused on making me better.”

Sebastian said one of his favorite memories from his wrestling career is when he qualified for State as a freshman…”I was wrestling Ivan Munoz from Ottawa who was ranked top 10. I was down 7- 4 going into the third period, but I knew I was wearing him out. I got an escape and immediately turned back into him and took a shot, and he bent over to defend it and I caught him in a standing cradle to put him on his back the last minute of the match for the victory, and winning that match punched my state ticket. That was when I first realized I could really compete with the best.”

He also wrestled at the state level in his junior year at GHS.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS:

-Plans after graduating from GHS – pursue a degree in mechanical engineering and plans to wrestle Division 3 in college.

-Advice for young wrestlers – “Hard work pays off. It may seem like nothing is going right for you now, just trust the process.

-Favorite food – “Cookie cake and ice cream.”

-What he is most looking forward to at the end of this year’s wrestling season – “Celebrating my accomplishments and eating. I love eating.”

Park District RESPECT Award to GHS Student Keely Roberts

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Keely Roberts, a student at Geneseo High School, is the recipient of the fourth quarter Geneseo Park District RESPECT Award. Roberts is a member of the GHS Gymnastics Team and was nominated for the award by Gymnastics Coaches Larry and Chris Ward. She is the daughter of Amy and Mark Roberts.

The RESPECT Award includes these qualities in an individual:

-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 written by the Ward couple states: “Keely Roberts is an extraordinary example and carries out the Mission and Core Values of the Geneseo Park District. Keely is a vibrant and energetic person that always leads her students by example. She always comes into the gym and organizes the environment by straightening the plastics or putting the mats in place. She has a bubbly personality, but is very calm and patient with her gymnastics students. Keely takes responsibility for attendance and getting the class started on time. She is helpful from the second she arrives until the second she leaves at the end of class.

She can teach any gymnastics event and is an excellent spotter. She can demonstrate any gymnastics skill as a competitive gymnast, which is pretty incredible.

Keely Roberts

Keely is a successful student at Geneseo High School where is involved in many activities along with golf and gymnastics. She is a strong, quiet leader. She was captain this year as a junior on the gymnastics team. Keely radiates excellence in all areas by working hard and being kind.

Keely is very careful to promote safety in the gym. She asks students to stop any unsafe behaviors and is very conscientious with students with special needs. She talks through discipline issues with her day camp students and gymnastics students with a great deal of professionalism. Keely smiles often and presents a positive force in whatever she is participating in at the moment.

During the high school season, she promoted moving equipment to all of her friends and they all showed up to help the gymnastics team move equipment. This was such a miracle and the result was a record time of setting up equipment.

Keely is remarkable with students with all types of diversity and individual needs. She is patient and understanding with all students. Keely immediately sends out messages to other employees if another coach is needed for the day. She usually has help in ten minutes or less. That shows that she communicates well and others respect her request for help. She is great at communicating to her co-workers, her teammates, and her students. She is direct and precise in what is needed and what is safe for the environment. She has great respect for all others.

She shares opinions and ideas without hesitation, but listens to what others have to say. She collaborates with adults and children very well.

Her love for gymnastics explodes when Keely teaches the sport. She is excited for her students to learn and build new skills. She is always trying new coaching drills and techniques without being told to do so. Keely is very popular with the young gymnasts because they see her example and want to be as skilled as her. They also see her calm teaching style and want to learn more as a result of Keely’s talented approach to gymnastics.

She always has the interests of the Geneseo Park District Program in mind and wants to serve as best she can as a caring professional. Thank you for this opportunity to nominate Keely Roberts for this prestigious award.”

Celebrate Recovery Program at Geneseo First Methodist - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Celebrate Recovery is described as a Christ-centered recovery program with 12 steps and eight principles and is for anyone with hurts, hang-ups, or habits. The new ministry begins on Thursday, Jan. 23, at the South Campus (224 North State St.) of Geneseo First Methodist Church in Geneseo. John and Jamie Pivovarnik are leading Celebrate Recovery.

The free program is held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursdays for 52 weeks. The first hour of each meeting is large group time with worship and a teaching or testimony and the second hour is gender-specific small group time.

Celebrate Recovery is open to men and women age 18 and older. For more information contact Yvette Biddle, director of Discipleship at Geneseo First Methodist, 309-944-2793.

There is no cost to attend the program and there is no advance registration, interested people are asked to “just show up and feel free to bring a friend.”

John and Jamie Pivovarnik are leading the new ministry, “Celebrate Recovery,” that begins Thursday, Jan. 23, at the South Campus of Geneseo First Methodist Church in Geneseo. Contributed Photo

The Rev. Dr. Chris Ritter, directing pastor at Geneseo First Methodist, said, “We are thrilled to offer the Geneseo community this Christ-centered ministry that has helped countless thousands find new freedom. Celebrate Recovery is for anyone seeking to overcome hurts, habits, or hang-ups that have kept them form living their best lives.”

The Pivovarnik couple, leaders of the program, said, “We believe Celebrate Recovery is for everyone! It’s a Biblical-based program that can lead to victory in overcoming hurts, hang-ups, and habits. Personally, we have come from a place of trauma, pain, addiction, and self destruction and now with Christ at the center, and the tools Celebrate Recovery has to offer, we are experiencing a life of renewed hope, restoration, and redemption. In addition, our family is also reaping the benefits. Our wish is for all in the community to experience the freedom and joy in living a life of true peace.”

FROM THE CELEBRATERECOVERY.COM WEBSITE:

“Celebrate Recovery was founded in 1991 as a ministry of Saddleback Church by Pastor John and Cheryl Baker. John shared with Senior Pastor Rick Warren a vision God had given him for anew Christ-centered ministry where people could find freedom from their hurts, hang-ups and habits. Over the years, thousands of people have gone through the program at Saddleback Church. Many of them have gone on to serve in Celebrate Recovery and other areas of the church. Thousands of churches have started a Celebrate Recovery ministry around the world, and that number continues to grow. Celebrate Recovery is not just growing in churches, but in recovery houses, rescue missions, universities and prisons around the world. It continues to be a growing global movement.”

FREEDOM FROM THE FOLLOWING IS POSSIBLE THROUGH CELEBRATE RECOVERY:

“Abandonment, abuse, alcohol, anger, anxiety, betrayal, codependency, crucial spirit, depression, divorce, drugs, eating disorders, family problems, fear, gambling, grief/loss, guilt, insecurity, internet, job loss, low self-esteem, need to control, nicotine, overspending, people pleasing, perfectionism, pornography, pride, PTSD, relationship, sexual addition, stealing and stress.”

THINGS CELEBRATE RECOVERY IS:

-A safe place to share.
-A refuge.
-A place of belonging.
-A place to care for others and be cared for.
-A place where respect is given to each member.
-A place where confidentially is highly regarded.
-A place to learn.
-A place to demonstrate genuine love.
-A place to grow and become strong again.
-A place for progress.
-A place where you can take off your mask and allow others to know who you are.
-A place for healthy challenges and healthy risks.
-A possible turning point in your life.

THINGS CELEBRATE RECOVERY IS NOT:

-A place for selfish control.
-Therapy.
-A place for secrets.
-A place to look for dating relationships.
-A place to be rescued by others.
-A place for perfection.
-A place to judge others.
-A quick fix.

Food Pantry Sees Large Increase in Number of Families Served - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Residents may notice a large bright and shiny red van in the area and wonder who owns the vehicle. The Geneseo-Atkinson Food Pantry (GAFP) is the new owner of the 1999 Ford van, a gift from the congregation at Grace United Methodist Church in Geneseo…And a welcome gift, according to Mike Sigwalt, director of the food pantry.

Sigwalt shared that the pantry has been realizing a steady increase in the number of families served, since he became director in 2021.

“Looking at our last fiscal year, October 2023 through September 2024, and comparing that to the prior fiscal year, we had experienced an average increase of 57 percent in the number of families served,” he said. “By the end of Sept. 2024, we had set a new record of 278 families served.”

Mike Sigwalt, director of the Geneseo-Atkinson Food Pantry, explained the above chart: “When we implemented our ‘open geography’ we monitored where our pantry were coming form so we could gauge the impact of this decision,” he added. “The chart shows where the pantry guests are coming from.”

When Sigwalt began his position at the food pantry in August of 2021, there were 47 families served, in comparison to the 387 families served in November of 2024, which is a record month so far.

And the number of families served by the local food pantry has continued to increase, Sigwalt said….”So far this fiscal year, October through December 2024, we have served an average of 350 families per month, which is a 64 percent increase in the number of families served over the same period in the prior fiscal year.”

GAFP has actively worked with area retailers to “rescue food” for use in the food pantry and Sigwalt explained, “With the increase in the number of families we serve, we have increased the number of retailers we work with to ‘rescue food. We have been modestly successful in expanding the amount of food we’ve rescued from retailers. We had been averaging rescuing about 3,300 pounds of food each month. The increase in the retailers we work with has resulted in an average increase in the amount of food rescued.”

In December of 2024, the local pantry rescued 8,200 pounds (four tons) of food and Sigwalt said that large of volume is not anticipated each month, “but we are expecting to recover about 5,000 pounds of food each month.”

“As the family volumes have increased, the amount of food we need to secure has also increased,” he added, explaining that in the past the food pantry staff has used their personal vehicles for the food rescue, but those vehicles are increasingly becoming too small for the amount of food needed to secure.

“In addition to food rescue, we also go to the area food banks to pick up food and the amount we order is frequently limited by the amount we are able to carry,” he said. “Having the new van will help us in our continual quest to obtain sufficient food for our pantry guests.”

In expressing his thanks for the church donating the van to the food pantry, Sigwalt said, “Grace United Methodist Church’s generosity is really greatly appreciated! For in-town food acquisitions, it has not been uncommon for us to have to make more than one trip to secure all the food. Additionally, as we’ve expanded our search for additional food retailers to work with, we have several which are located out side of Geneseo, and it wouldn’t be practical to make more than one trip to these locations. And we’ll be able to order more through our food banks.”

DOES THE FOOD PANTRY SERVE MORE THAN ATKINSON AND GENESEO?

The Geneseo-Atkinson Food Pantry has long been required to serve families outside of the immediate area, Sigwalt said, and explained, “A particular grantor we work with requires us to serve every person who comes to the food pantry, regardless of where they reside. We have always strived to create a welcoming environment at GAFP…Hunger does not recognize geography, neither should we.”

“We have helped people obtain food who happened to hit hard times at ‘Exit 19 on I-80’ as they traveled from Utah to New York. We have served countless homeless people. We have helped a number of people who are in need of assistance simply because it’s the compassionate thing to do.”

The pantry director added that a number of the grantors and government agencies the GAFP works with increasingly requires them to serve everyone who comes to the local pantry doors seeking assistance…;”More specifically, there are some rules from River Bend Food Bank which would seem to imply we should accept all who come to our doors.”

As of Jan. 1, the Illinois Department of Human Services has mandated that the food pantry: “no longer collect a photo identification card, a piece of mail, residency documentation, or any other such similar documents for The Emergency Food Assistance Program eligibility.”

Sigwalt said he is aware of rumors on social media and other channels that suggest the GAFP is serving more people outside of the immediate are that they are serving families living within the Geneseo School District…”The rumor is based on concerns regarding our lifting geographic restrictions for people receiving food and clothing from GAFP,” he explained. “It is true, we have lifted geographic restrictions. This was done primarily for a grantor requiring we do not turn anyone away who requires food from our pantry. Since we had been serving the homeless and transient people requiring assistance, requiring a specified geographic service area for food distribution seemed superfluous and the process ran contrary to many of our agreements with our upstream partner agencies.” (See chart).

“The blue and orange show the GAFP families served, respectively,” he said. “As the chart shows, about 79 percent of the families served are from Geneseo and Atkinson. Significantly, the data demonstrates we have not been ‘neglecting’ Geneseo or Atkinson families as seems to have been recently rumored. In fact, the number of Geneseo and Atkinson families we serve has continued to increase.”

“One side benefit has emerged by tracking the demographics of our pantry visitors,” he added. “We have been able to identify the ‘food deserts’ existing in the area and we have been working with River Bend Food Bank, the University of Illinois Extension, and other area agencies to develop potential solutions for these’ food deserts’.”

(“Food deserts” are communities lacking grocery stores and also lack a food pantry serving their community).

Sigwalt provided examples: “We do not want families to travel excessive miles for pantry food, and through our collaborative efforts with our agency partners, we may be able to finally address some of the underlying catalysts for area food-insecurity.”

 

Grace Church Gives Church Van to Food Pantry - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Geneseo-Atkinson Food Pantry now has a van, a gift from the congregation at Grace United Methodist Church in Geneseo.

According to food pantry and church staff, the vehicle will be put to good use.

Karen Doy, who is president of the Missions Committee at Grace Church, and who also serves on the food pantry board, shared how the idea happened to give the van to the food pantry…”At the November board meeting of the food pantry, Mike Sigwalt, director of the food pantry, shared that there are a record number of guests using the pantry. He also mentioned that due to the increased workload, River Bend Food Pantry is no longer picking up from Silvis Wal-Mart, Jewel-Osco and Aldi grocery stores. River Bend offered local food pantries could pick up what they wanted and what they would e able to pick up.

Doy added that the additional amount of food would really help meet the local food pantry’s large demand

She said she and Sigwalt talked after that November meeting….”I felt that it was not feasible for the Pantry employees’ vehicles to be utilized due to traveling distance and quantity of food. Geneseo donations also often require multiple trips due to the size of personal vehicles.”

Mike Sigwalt, left, director of the Geneseo-Atkinson Food Pantry, accepts the keys to the van in the photograph from Brian Humphries, president of the Grace United Methodist Church Board of Trustees; and Karen Doy, president of the Missions Committee at Grace Church and also a board member of the food pantry. The van was donated to the food panty from Grace Church. Photo by Claudia Loucks

HOW GRACE CHURCH CHOSE TO DONATE THE VAN:

As president of the Missions Board at Grace Church, Doy attended a Grace Church Council meeting where she learned that the church was no longer using the church van and a question was asked as to whether the van should be sold.

“No decision was made at that time,’ Doy said, but it was at that time when she emailed Brian Humphries, who serves as chairperson of the Board of Trustees at Grace Church, to ask if the church would be interested in selling the van…”I explained why it would help the Pantry. It was through discussions of the boards involved that a decision was made to donate the van to the food pantry.”

Brian Humphries shared that the decision to donate the van was made by the Church Trustees with final approval made by the Grace Church Council...”Use of the van has decreased greatly since Covid. So, while the van was still in good running condition, it made sense to allocate this resource where the need was greater.”

The 1999 Dodge van purchased new by the church in 1999 and its current mileage is 70,000.

“While the van has been used sporadically in the past few years, we felt that it would be used more frequently by the food pantry,” Humphries said. “After all, vehicles need to be driven to stay in good working condition…”I’m so glad we were able to contribute to the food pantry by donating the van which will, in turn, benefit the community.”

Other church members who were involved in making the donation happen include Steve Wildemuth, who made sure the van was in good running condition.

Doy added, ”Steve and I met Mike Sigwalt on a Saturday to test drive the van and Mike thought it sounded, looked and drove like a wonderful Christmas present.”

Kirk Hodgson of Pinks’ Paint and Body Shop in Geneseo, was responsible for removing all exterior decals as well as seats and seat belts, at no cost.

And Mike Sigwalt’s appreciation was evident with the big smile he had when given the keys to the van…”Having the van will help us in our continual quest to obtain sufficient food for our pantry guests. Grace United Methodist Church’s generosity is really greatly appreciated! For in-town food acquisitions, it has not been uncommon for us to have to make more than one trip to secure all the food. Additionally, as we’ve expanded our search for additional food retailers to work with, we have several which are located outside of Geneseo (specifically Silvis and Kewanee) and it wouldn’t be practical to make more than one trip to these locations. And we’ll be able to order more through our food banks.”

 

Geneseo Middle School Readers Choose 2025 On the Same Page Community Book Read

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Student readers at Geneseo Middle School have selected the Kate O’Shaughnessy novel “Lasagna Means I Love You” for the 15th On the Same Page Community-Wide Read.

“Lasagna Means I Love You” focuses on a little girl named Mo who ends up in foster care following the death of her grandmother. Mo teaches herself to cook and begins collecting family recipes as she adjusts to her new situation.

Volunteer sixth, seventh, and eighth grade readers select the OSP book each year.

Geneseo Middle School sixth grader Hadley Wyffels shows a copy of “Lasagna Means I Love You, the 15th On the Same Page Community-Wide Read selection.

According to Jeanne Brucher, Geneseo Middle School Librarian, said, “This is a student-led project. Each spring we start with about 20 books, and it takes the student readers until October to narrow to their final selection.”

As a result of the support from the Geneseo Education Foundation, Geneseo Kiwanis, and the GMS Library; there is no cost to participate in the program. Copies of the novel will be available in various locations in the community for community members to take, read, and pass along. Copies may also be picked up at the school office.

Each year, students plan a culminating event to tie to the book. Inspired by the recipes in “Lasagna Means I Love you,” readers are encouraged to participate in two ways. First, GMS students are collecting favorite family recipes for an online cookbook. To see recipes or add you own, click on: https://sites.google.com/geneseoschools.org/gms-osp-fav-fam-recipes/home. OSP will also host a Family Favorites Potluck at GMS from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, April 8, at the Geneseo Middle School. Families are invited to bring a favorite food item to share. The Book Fair also will be open that evening.

For more information about the On the Same Page Program and to watch the student-produced book talk video, visit https://gcsdblogs.org/onthesamepage, or contact program coordinator Brucher at GMS, 309-945-0599.

Links:

On the Same Page Website https://gcsdblogs.org/onthesamepage GMS 2025 OSP Book Talk Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGbOxkMv1nE