Lady Leafs Step Up to Support Inspire Continuing Care

Geneseo’s Lady Leafs softball team is taking the field for more than just a game this month—they’re stepping up to support a cause that hits close to home.

On April 23, the Lady Leafs will face Alleman in a special charity game benefiting Inspire Continuing Care, a local organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families through compassionate care services.

The game, which begins at 4:30 p.m., is part of a broader effort to raise funds that will go directly back to Inspire. Throughout the event, the team and community are rallying together to make an impact in several ways. All proceeds from the concession stand will be donated, a bake sale table will offer additional opportunities to give, and a portion of team shirt sales—$2 from each purchase—will also support the cause.

The funds raised will help provide meaningful experiences and support for those served by Inspire, including field trips, meals, and contributions to a scholarship fund.

More than just a night of softball, the event reflects the spirit of community that defines Geneseo—neighbors showing up for one another, athletes using their platform for good, and local partnerships making a real difference.

For the Lady Leafs, it’s not just about the scoreboard. It’s about showing up, giving back, and playing for something bigger.

April City Council Meeting Preview

The Geneseo City Council meets Tuesday at 6:00 PM, and while this agenda is fairly routine, there are a few behind-the-scenes updates that help explain how the City operates.

Here’s what you need to know before the meeting.

Farmer’s Market Agreement

The biggest decision on this agenda is a new agreement for the Geneseo Farmer’s Market.

  • The location is not changing (it will remain at City Park).

  • Any changes are behind the scenes—visitors shouldn’t notice a difference.

  • This is about how the market is structured and managed legally.

The City is reviewing updated agreement options that:

  • Define responsibilities more clearly

  • Require insurance and legal protections

  • Ask the market to distribute information to its vendors on sales tax compliance

This is primarily about who is responsible if something goes wrong—and how clearly that’s defined.

The past agreement has worked, but it’s more informal. The new agreement is designed to:

  • Reduce liability for the City

  • Formalize how the market operates

  • Remove gray areas

A Look at City Finances (and Why the Numbers Can Be Misleading)

The Council will also review the Treasurer’s Report and Capital Planning updates.

At first glance, the numbers might raise eyebrows.

  • The City has collected about $1.07 million in revenue so far

  • It has already spent about $4.87 million

That looks like a large deficit—but it’s not what it seems.

Here’s what’s actually happening

  • Many major expenses and internal transfers are paid early in the year.

  • Revenue—especially taxes—comes in gradually over time.

So right now, the City is spending ahead of revenue on purpose.

What this tells us

  • Finances appear stable.

  • The system relies on timing and planned cash flow.

Capital Planning: Thinking Ahead

Alongside the financial report, the City is reviewing its capital planning documents.

This is where the City tracks:

  • What it owns (vehicles, equipment, infrastructure)

  • What needs to be repaired or replaced

  • What projects are planned for the future

A full list of 2026 projects is included in the materials .

Other Business

Several items are expected to be approved quickly as part of the consent agenda, including:

  • A construction easement agreement with IDOT

  • A façade improvement grant for a local business

  • The sale of surplus City equipment

These items are typically grouped together and approved in one vote unless a council member asks to discuss one individually.

Community Updates

A few upcoming dates were also highlighted:

  • Spring disposal days: April 18 and May 9

  • Arbor Day: April 24

  • Art Walk: April 25

View the full agenda packet here.

High Tea and Fashion Show Fundraiser Planned for Freedom House Shelter

Geneseo, IL - Freedom House is hosting a High Tea and Fashion Show on Sunday, May 3, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Central School House Inn in Geneseo.

The afternoon will feature an array of sweets made by Abigail Wolf, the young teen, who, along with her brother Kenneth, won the Food Network Championship Bake Off – Next Gen, and savory items by Jennifer Jude of P.L. Johnson’s. Jude is known for her popular tea parties at her historic restaurant in Bishop Hill. Various teas, coffee and punch will add to the menu.

Fashions from Four Seasons, Geneseo, will be modeled, showing off the latest in spring and summer wear.

A silent auction, with all things floral, will be available, perfect for Mother’s Day gifts.

Tickets are $50, with tables of four for $200. Seating is limited, and those interested are encouraged to reserve their space early.  Tickets can be purchased here:

https://givebutter.com/springtime-high-tea-2026-3ywl32

Freedom House was established in 1983 by Nedda Simon. It serves survivors of abuse in Henry, Bureau, Stark, Marshall and Putnam counties. Counseling, shelter and ongoing support are provided at no charge.

The agency is adding a 40 bed shelter in Kewanee in response to the large number of clients from Henry County who seek services. Proceeds from this event will go towards funding the shelter.

Geneseo Wine Walk Set to Debut May 30 in Downtown District

A new event is coming to downtown Geneseo this spring, offering a fresh way to experience local businesses, enjoy live music, and spend an afternoon out with friends.

Hosted by the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce, the inaugural Geneseo Wine Walk will take place Saturday, May 30 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m., transforming State Street into a walkable, open-air destination for wine tasting, shopping, and community connection.

State Street will be closed from Central Bank Pavilion to North Street during the event, creating a pedestrian-friendly environment filled with live music, gathering spaces, and activity throughout the downtown district.

How It Works

Participants who purchase a ticket will gain access to wine tastings hosted inside participating businesses across downtown Geneseo. Attendees can move from stop to stop, sampling a variety of wines while browsing shops, discovering new storefronts, and taking advantage of in-store promotions and special experiences.

Local restaurants will also be open throughout the event, offering options for guests to grab a bite to eat or enjoy a full glass of their favorite wine along the route.

What to Expect

The event is designed to blend multiple elements of the downtown experience into one afternoon, including:

  • Wine tastings inside participating businesses

  • Exclusive shopping promotions and in-store experiences

  • Live music and outdoor gathering space along State Street

  • Opportunities to dine at local restaurants during the event

  • A social, walkable atmosphere in the heart of Geneseo

Live music will continue at Central Bank Pavilion from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., allowing attendees to extend their evening after the Wine Walk concludes.

Tickets and Details

Tickets are required to participate and must be purchased online in advance. No day-of ticket sales will be available.

Organizers note that tickets are limited and expected to sell out. Guests may purchase multiple tickets and will receive a digital QR code to present at check-in.

Additional details include:

  • Ticket sales close May 10

  • Participants must be 21 or older to take part in wine tastings

  • Check-in will take place at the Chamber booth, where guests will present their digital ticket, verify ID, and receive a commemorative wine glass, wristband, and event passport

A New Downtown Tradition

With a focus on local businesses, walkability, and shared experiences, the Geneseo Wine Walk aims to create a new tradition that highlights what makes the community’s downtown unique.

Organizers encourage attendees to plan their stops in advance, gather a group of friends, and take full advantage of an afternoon designed to sip, shop, and explore.

Get Your Ticket here

Geneseo School Board Approves Contract, Advances Cost Updates and Continues Solar Discussions

The Geneseo Community Unit School District #228 Board of Education approved a new teachers’ contract, moved forward with a series of annual cost adjustments, and continued discussion on a potential solar energy project during its April 9 meeting.

Teachers’ Contract Approved

The Board of Education approved a three-year collective bargaining agreement (2026–2029) with the Geneseo Education Association.

The agreement includes:

  • Average annual salary increases of approximately 5%

  • A phased-in district contribution to the Teachers’ Retirement System (TRS)

District leadership states the agreement “reflects a shared commitment between Geneseo CUSD 228 and the Geneseo Education Association to student success, educator support, and long-term district stability.”

Fees and Program Costs Adjusted

The board approved registration fee increases, miscellaneous student fees, and SAFE program pricing updates for the 2026–2027 school year.

Registration Fee Changes

  • K–8: $123 → $126

  • High School: $135 → $138

Miscellaneous Fees

  • HS Participation fee (one-time): $35 → $40

  • MS Participation fee (one-time): $30 → $35

SAFE program increases are incremental—generally $0.25 per day per child across categories.

Support Staff Wages Increase

The board approved incremental wage increases of approximately $0.50 per hour for educational support staff.

Positions impacted include aides, custodial staff, food service employees, secretaries, and SAFE program staff.

Transportation Contract Reflects Rising Costs

The board approved a transportation contract totaling approximately $1.85 million for the 2026–2027 school year, up from about $1.79 million this year.

The increase reflects rising costs in daily routes, mileage, and extracurricular transportation.

Cafeteria Prices Under Review

The board conducted a first reading of proposed cafeteria price increases, with no final approval at this meeting.

Proposed adjustments include:

  • K–5 lunch: $3.10 → $3.20

  • Grades 6–12: $3.30 → $3.40

  • Adult meals: $4.75 → $5.00

  • Breakfast: +$0.10

The proposed increases are part of a phased approach tied to federal Paid Lunch Equity (PLE) requirements, which currently target approximately $4.16 per meal.

Final approval is expected at a future meeting following additional review.

Facilities: Tennis Courts and Maintenance

The board approved tennis court resurfacing and repairs, part of routine maintenance planning as facilities age.

Policy and Administrative Updates

The board conducted a first reading of several policy and administrative items, with no final action taken at this meeting.

Items reviewed included:

  • Administrative contracts for FY27

  • Proposed updates to education support personnel policies

  • Revisions to elementary and middle school student handbooks

These items are expected to return for final approval at a future meeting.

Solar Project Remains Under Discussion

The board continued discussion of a potential solar energy project, with no final decision reached.

Potential Benefits

  • Estimated 8–9 year payback period

  • Long-term energy savings and potential revenue offsets

  • Access to financial incentives

Concerns Raised

  • Project location and land use impact

  • Whether to delay or relocate the project

  • Uncertainty around future incentives

  • Alignment with future facility expansion plans

Additional discussion included infrastructure considerations and the possibility of consultant input and further bid review.

Superintendent Report and District Highlights

Superintendent Dr. Laura Delgado reported:

  • State testing underway (IAR, ISA, ACT)

  • Recognition of the district’s first Seal of Biliteracy recipient

  • GEF Spring Grants expected next month

  • Continued traffic concerns near Ogden and State Street

The district is also continuing rollout of its strategic plan, with communication efforts including website updates, social media, a public FAQ page, and an informational video.

Upcoming Events

  • Spring Musical: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (April 23–26)

  • Graduation: May 24 (parade begins at 1 p.m.)

  • Kindergarten Registration Opens: April 20

April School Board Meeting Preview

UPCOMING MEETING: APRIL 9 AT 5:30 PM

The Geneseo School District #228 Board of Education will review a mix of financial adjustments, staffing updates, operational costs, and long-term planning items at its upcoming meeting. Much of the agenda reflects routine annual updates, alongside ongoing efforts to manage rising costs and maintain services across the district.

Fees & Program Costs Under Review

The board will consider updates to 2026–2027 registration and miscellaneous fees, along with pricing adjustments for the district’s before- and after-school (SAFE) program. While final decisions have not yet been made, the discussion signals that families should expect some cost adjustments heading into the next school year.

Support Staff Wages Increasing

Proposed wage adjustments for educational support staff show increases of approximately $0.50 per hour across most roles.

Examples include:

  • Aides increasing from $16.00 to $16.50 per hour

  • Building secretaries from $17.00 to $17.50

  • Custodial and food service roles seeing similar incremental increases

These adjustments span a wide range of positions, including aides, nurses, custodians, food service staff, and SAFE program employees. The increases are intended to help the district remain competitive in hiring and retaining staff.

Transportation Contract Costs Rising

The board will review a proposed transportation contract totaling approximately $1.85 million for the 2026–2027 school year.

This represents an increase from about $1.79 million this year, with cost increases reflected across multiple categories, including:

  • Daily route rates

  • Mileage costs for buses

  • Hourly rates for trips and extracurricular transportation

The contract covers regular routes, athletics, and other district transportation needs, continuing a broader trend of rising operational costs.

Food Prices Adjusting Gradually

Proposed cafeteria pricing for the 2026–2027 school year includes increases across grade levels:

  • K–5 lunch: $3.10 → $3.20

  • Grades 6–12: $3.30 → $3.40

  • Adult lunch: $4.75 → $5.00

  • Breakfast prices increasing by $0.10

These adjustments are part of a longer-term effort to align with federally calculated pricing benchmarks under Paid Lunch Equity (PLE), which currently targets $4.16 per meal. The increases are expected to continue gradually over time rather than all at once.

Facilities: Tennis Courts Under Consideration

The board will discuss potential resurfacing and repairs to district tennis courts. This falls under routine maintenance planning as facilities age and require periodic updates.

Policy & Administrative Updates

Several standard policy and administrative items are also on the agenda, including:

  • Administrative contracts for FY27

  • Updates to education support personnel policies

  • Revisions to elementary and middle school student handbooks

These items represent typical operational updates and annual adjustments.

Solar Panel Proposal Remains Under Discussion

The board will continue discussions regarding a potential solar energy project. No final decision is expected at this meeting.

The proposal reflects ongoing exploration of potential long-term cost savings, though details and direction remain under consideration.

District Highlights

Recent updates across the district include:

  • A student earning the Seal of Biliteracy for the first time

  • Teachers eligible for Geneseo Education Foundation (GEF) Spring Grants

  • State testing currently underway (IAR, ISA, ACT)

Upcoming Events

  • Spring Musical: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (April 23–26)

  • Graduation: May 24 (parade begins at 1 p.m.)

  • Kindergarten registration opens April 20

Sources

The Geneseo Current independently prepares this recap using publicly available board reports and documents. The district does not review or endorse this publication.

Queen of Hearts Fundraiser Brings Community Together at Raelyn’s

by Sarah DeMaranville

In Geneseo, community support often shows up in familiar ways—events, fundraisers, and local partnerships that bring people together for a shared cause. A new collaboration between the Henry County Humane Society – Geneseo and Raelyn’s is doing just that, with a weekly fundraiser that blends entertainment, generosity, and a little bit of suspense.

The Queen of Hearts fundraiser, now underway at Raelyn’s, offers participants the chance to support local animals while taking part in a growing, community-driven game that builds momentum week after week.

How It Works

At its core, the fundraiser is simple: participants purchase raffle tickets and select a numbered envelope, each concealing a playing card from a shuffled deck. During the weekly drawing, one ticket is selected—and if that ticket corresponds to the envelope hiding the Queen of Hearts, the winner takes home the jackpot.

If not, the selected card is revealed and removed from play, and the jackpot rolls over, growing larger each week.

Drawings are held every Wednesday evening at Raelyn’s, creating a consistent opportunity for the community to gather, connect, and contribute to a meaningful cause.

More Than a Game

While the format adds excitement, the purpose behind the fundraiser is what truly matters.

All proceeds benefit the Henry County Humane Society – Geneseo, supporting their ongoing efforts to care for animals, provide shelter, and connect pets with loving homes. Fundraisers like this play a critical role in sustaining those services.

A Community Collaboration

This partnership reflects a broader trend seen across Geneseo: local businesses and organizations working together to create experiences that benefit the entire community.

Raelyn’s provides the space and weekly gathering point, while the humane society brings the mission and impact. The result is a fundraiser that feels less like an obligation and more like a shared experience. Participants aren’t just buying a ticket—they’re becoming part of a weekly rhythm that supports a local cause.

Building Momentum Week by Week

One of the defining features of the Queen of Hearts fundraiser is its ability to grow over time.

As cards are removed and the jackpot increases, interest builds. What may start as a modest gathering can quickly turn into a highly anticipated weekly event, drawing both regular participants and new faces.

That steady momentum not only increases engagement but also amplifies the fundraiser’s impact.

An Invitation to Participate

Whether you’re a regular at Raelyn’s or simply looking for a new way to support a local cause, the Queen of Hearts fundraiser offers a low-barrier way to get involved.

Each ticket purchased contributes directly to the Humane Society’s work—while also offering a chance to be part of something fun, social, and community-driven.

As the weeks progress and the jackpot grows, so does the opportunity to make a difference.

Supporting Local, Together

In our small town, partnerships like this matter. They strengthen connections between businesses, organizations, and residents—and they create opportunities to support causes that might otherwise go unnoticed.

The Queen of Hearts fundraiser is more than a game. It’s a reminder that when local organizations collaborate, the entire community benefits.

Local Businesses Gather for Geneseo Retail & Restaurant Roundtable

Nearly twenty local businesses and community partners came together recently for a Geneseo Retail & Restaurant Roundtable, focused on strengthening communication, collaboration, and visibility across the local business community.

Katie Katsunis of GWK Enterprises discusses community events at her table.

The discussion brought together a diverse group of business owners—from retail and dining to service providers—along with representatives from the City of Geneseo and other local organizations.

A representative from Erdman Construction discussion marketing strategies utilized in the past.

One of the clearest takeaways from the conversation was the importance of creating experiences that people remember. Business owners noted that events and promotions tend to perform best when they are family-friendly, community-centered, and give people a clear reason to get out and participate.

Timing and consistency in promotion were also key themes. Many participants emphasized that successful events are rarely last-minute efforts, but instead benefit from intentional promotion over several weeks, particularly through social media and local media outlets.

Many businesses expressed openness to working together more intentionally—whether through shared promotions, coordinated events, or simply supporting one another’s efforts. At the same time, business owners noted the importance of being thoughtful and strategic about partnerships to ensure they are meaningful and mutually beneficial.

The meeting was held at Exchange St. Works.

The roundtable highlighted both the strength of Geneseo’s local business community and the opportunity to build on that foundation. With continued collaboration and a shared focus on communication, participants expressed optimism about creating even more visibility, engagement, and support for local businesses in the months ahead.

Braveheart Children’s Advocacy Center Searching for Heroes

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   In communities across Bureau, Henry, Marshall, Putnam and Stark counties, there is one organization working quietly, but powerfully to support children during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. 

   Braveheart Children’s Advocacy Center in Cambridge is dedicated to providing a safe, child-focused environment where young survivors of abuse can begin their journey toward healing.  Historically, Braveheart receives the most child abuse reports from Henry County.

   April is designated as Child Abuse Prevention Month and Braveheart CAC is inviting the community to step into the role of hero – literally.

   The upcoming Superhero 5K and Kids Fun Run, Saturday, April 18, at Baker Park in Kewanee, is more than just a race, it’s a celebration of strength, resilience and community support.  Participants of all ages are encouraged to dress as their favorite superhero while running or walking to raise awareness for the Children served by Braveheart.

   Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun family activity, the event offers a meaningful way to give back while enjoying a day of energy and connection. 

   On April 18, Braveheart also will have free face painting, bubble stations and more.

   Felisha Rogers, Community Outreach and Advocate since 2023 at Braveheart Children’s Advocacy Center, said, “Our kids are the real superheroes.  The strength and resilience these children show is incredible, and this event is a way for our community to stand beside them and show they are not alone, while keeping anonymity for the kids.”

   “Often, the team gets asked how they can do this work without getting burned out.  Danielle Walker, Advocate since 2020, said, “Although these cases are heartbreaking, I have to remind myself of the pain the kids that aren’t here are going through.”

   The team knows that even in the years they receive less reports, the abuse is still happening, it just isn’t being reported. 

   Braveheart brings together a multidisciplinary team of professionals, including law enforcement, child protection services, state’s attorney offices, medical providers, and mental health specialists, to ensure that children and their families receive compassionate, coordinated care.

   The CAC model was formed to bring different teams together, and ultimately, lessen how often a child would have to tell the story of their abuse.  By reducing the number of times a child shares their story and offering advocacy every step of the way, Braveheart lessens trauma and builds a path forward rooted in hope.

   In addition to the 5K on April 18, Braveheart is hosting a Superhero Coloring Contest in an effort to engage children in a creative and empowering way.  Pre-school through sixth grade students are invited to imagine and illustrate their own superhero.

   Both April 18 events reflect Braveheart’s mission to foster healing while building a stronger, more informed community.  By combining awareness, education, and engagement, the organization continues to make a lasting impact on local families.

   Community members are encouraged to participate, support and spread the word.  If someone cannot attend the 5K, but would like to show support for Children Abuse Prevention Month, they are invited to create their own pinwheel garden, organize a fundraiser for the Center, or wear blue on April 10.

   For more information, call Braveheart CAC at 309-937-5663