Letter to the Editor- Part 2: Fixing the USPS

My previous input on this subject demonstrated the USPS is a mess. This edition will provide a solution.

The USPS recorded a $9B loss in FY 2025 ($20.5 B over the last 3 reporting periods). This was accomplished by 600,000 employees earning $80,000 per year in wages and benefits. In order to reach a break even position, simple division yields an excess of 112,000 employees.

Employee costs represent 50% of the total operating cost. In other words, it’s the biggest hog at the trough. Switching to more fuel efficient delivery vehicles and energy efficient light bulbs would temporarily placate the climate change warriors, but do little good to the bottom line.

So, given that a break even position is desirable what steps can be taken to achieve this? Some ideas:
1. Offer employee buy outs
2. Offer early retirements
3. Consolidate middle management
4. Cancel open employee requisitions
5. Implement a reduction in force
6. Raise postal rates as a last resort

The USPS management has annually played “kick the can” with this problem. In this case it’s the taxpayer’s “can” being kicked. They are satisfied with the status quo because to actually affect a change would be politically toxic. Think of a young child trying to manage a box full of rabid squirrels and you are close.

The result of this style is all too predictable-we will be lead down the primrose path to the precipice, draconian and foolish decisions will be made, and the taxpayer will be left holding the bag. This is what the bureaucrats say they don’t want, but actually do want. I want to play guitar like Jimmy Page, own a Ferrari, and date a super model and I’m currently accepting donations. But, this won’t happen either. Wink.

Let’s solve this problem. Locally, Henry County has 50,000 residents, is an area of 826 square miles and has 14 post offices. Deliveries are made to 20,000 residential address and 1,100 businesses. The shape of Henry County is roughly a square. I suggest the number of post offices need to be reduced to an efficient level. Looking at a map suggests Geneseo, Colona, Kewanee and Cambridge geographically and population wise make sense. This leaves 10 other existing post offices as excess to requirements. The offices themselves could be sold/repurposed, delivery vehicles transferred to other jurisdictions, and result in a net reduction in personnel.

So this action combined with the previously listed steps would be a meaningful reduction. Implemented on a regional or national scale would further help matters.

The USPS at its peril has been slow to adopt technology based solutions. Another factor is to AI model this problem and have the computer brainiacs in D.C. develop algorithms. We don’t need another AMTRAK, or Social Security situation! I detest it when politicians, policy wonks, consultants and lawyers pretend they are behaving with your best interest at heart. It rarely works out. Good leadership involves critical thinking, tough decisions and sacrifices.

My third and final submission on this subject will outline pithy and non-satisfying experiences with the Geneseo Post Office. Stay tuned.

- Donald Crawford

Five Years of State Report Cards Show Geneseo Schools Recovering From Post-Pandemic Declines

By Sarah DeMaranville

A review of five years of Illinois School Report Card data shows Geneseo CUSD 228 has largely recovered from significant academic declines that followed the COVID-19 pandemic, with the district posting some of its strongest academic results in recent years.

The Illinois State Board of Education releases annual report cards for every school district in the state, measuring student achievement, graduation rates, attendance, funding adequacy, and other key indicators.

While a single year's report can provide a snapshot, examining five years of data reveals a broader story: strong pre-pandemic performance, a sharp decline in achievement, and a substantial rebound.

Academic Performance Rebounds

Districtwide English Language Arts proficiency remained relatively steady in 2020-21 and 2021-22, with approximately 49% of students meeting or exceeding state standards. Math performance was similarly strong, hovering around 50% proficiency.

Then came a dramatic drop. In 2022-23, English Language Arts proficiency fell to 34.9%, while math proficiency dropped to 26.9%. The following year showed little improvement, with math proficiency slipping further to 25.0%.

The most recent report card, however, showed a significant turnaround. For the 2024-25 school year, English Language Arts proficiency climbed to 58.1%, while math proficiency rose to 45.8%.

Although changes in state reporting methodologies make direct year-to-year comparisons imperfect, the overall trend suggests students have regained much of the ground lost during the years immediately following the pandemic.

Attendance Remains a Challenge

One metric that mirrors the academic trends is chronic absenteeism.

In 2020-21, the district reported chronic absenteeism at 4.0%. That figure rose to 9.8% in 2021-22 and peaked at 13.4% in 2022-23.

The district has since improved, reporting 10.8% chronic absenteeism in 2023-24 and 11.4% in 2024-25.

While attendance has improved from its peak absenteeism levels, it remains notably higher than pre-pandemic figures.

Educational research consistently identifies attendance as one of the strongest predictors of student success, making it an area district leaders will likely continue to monitor.

Graduation Rates Remain Strong

One area where Geneseo has consistently excelled is high school graduation.

The district's graduation rate has remained near 98% in recent years, including a 97.9% graduation rate in the latest report card.

That means nearly all students entering Geneseo High School are successfully completing their education and earning a diploma.

The district also continues to outperform state averages in measures tied to long-term student success. The most recent report card showed a 98% Ninth Grade On Track rate, compared to the statewide average of 89%. The metric measures whether freshmen are meeting academic and attendance benchmarks that put them on pace to graduate.

Reading Continues to Outpace Math

A recurring trend throughout the report cards is stronger performance in reading than mathematics.

In the most recent report card:

  • 58.1% of students met or exceeded standards in English Language Arts.

  • 45.8% met or exceeded standards in mathematics.

The gap is consistent with statewide trends, where districts across Illinois continue to work to rebuild math achievement following pandemic-related disruptions. Still, district leaders pointed to significant progress in mathematics. The percentage of Geneseo eighth graders passing Algebra I increased from 46% to 59% in the latest report card, compared to a statewide average of 31%.

Three Schools Earn Exemplary Status

The district's academic progress was reflected in school-level designations released by the Illinois State Board of Education.

Geneseo High School, Millikin Elementary, and Northside Elementary each earned Exemplary status for 2024-25, placing them among the top 10% of public schools in Illinois.

Geneseo Middle School and Southwest Elementary received Commendable status, the state's second-highest designation.

"We are incredibly proud of our students, staff and families for the hard work that takes place every day in all of our buildings," Superintendent Dr. Laura Delgado said when the report card results were released. "That three of our schools earned Exemplary status is a reflection of the commitment our entire community makes to support education and foster an ongoing culture of excellence."

School Board President Kane Causemaker also praised the results, noting that the report card findings reflected the district's culture of achievement and support for students.

District Credits Strategic Efforts for Improvement

Delgado said the district's recent gains reflect years of focused work following the pandemic.

"As you can imagine, much goes into understanding and interpreting the School Report Cards," Delgado said. "We are very proud of our statistics."

According to Delgado, multiple initiatives contributed to the district's improvement, including a renewed focus on high-quality instructional practices, support from instructional coaches and interventionists, and the continued use of Professional Learning Communities to align teaching practices and learning standards.

"These supports remain in place and are embedded in the core of our Strategic Plan," Delgado said. "We are confident that the district will continue to grow as we focus our efforts on the three pillars of our plan."

Delgado said the district's improvement in mathematics is particularly encouraging.

"The increase in our math scores is very encouraging, as it validates the efforts of our Professional Learning Communities, collaborative leadership teams, coaches, and math interventionists," she said.

A Story of Recovery

Viewed together, the five years of report cards tell a story that will sound familiar to many educators and families.

Geneseo entered the pandemic era with strong academic performance. Student achievement then declined sharply during the years that followed, particularly in mathematics.

The most recent report card suggests students have made significant progress in recovering those losses. The district's gains were accompanied by state recognition for three schools that earned Exemplary status, placing them among the top-performing schools in Illinois.

Challenges remain, particularly in attendance and math achievement, but the overall direction of the data points upward.

The next Illinois School Report Card, expected to be released in late October, will help determine whether the gains seen in 2024-25 represent a lasting trend or the continuation of a broader post-pandemic recovery.

Visit illinoisreportcard.com for more details.

Geneseo City Council Advances Ford Road Infrastructure Project, Promotes Police Sergeant

The Geneseo City Council's Committee of the Whole and subsequent special meeting on June 23 included the promotion of a police officer, approval of cemetery regulation updates, and action on infrastructure improvements tied to the Ford Road development project.

Police Sergeant Promotion

Officer Elliott Vermeire was formally sworn in as a police sergeant during the meeting. Police Chief Casey Disterhoft praised Vermeire’s more than 10 years of service, describing him as a dedicated officer, family man, and community member.

Cemetery Updates Approved

Council members unanimously recommended approval of revisions to Oakwood Cemetery's rules and regulations. The changes incorporate newly developed Sections 34 through 37 and establish monument guidelines consistent with surrounding cemetery sections.

Ford Road Development Moves Forward

City Administrator Brandon Maeglin reported that the city recently finalized a development agreement with J.F. Edwards Construction Company for the Ford Road project following multiple public meetings, ordinances, and agreements related to annexation and TIF creation.

To keep the project on schedule, council members approved the purchase of lift station components from Electric Pump at a cost of $126,395. City officials said the specialized equipment has an estimated lead time of two to three months and is needed for infrastructure work planned later this year.

The purchase was first recommended by the Committee of the Whole and later unanimously approved at a special City Council meeting held immediately afterward.

Music Festival Praised

Several council members commented on the success of the Geneseo Music Festival, noting strong attendance on Saturday despite weather challenges on Sunday and competition from the Henry County Fair. Council members reported that vendors and food trucks experienced solid activity throughout the weekend.

Other Business

During public comment, a resident raised concerns about flowers and flower holders reportedly being removed from graves at Oakwood and North Cemetery. City officials encouraged the resident to report the incidents to the police department for further review.

The meeting concluded after approval of city and utility bills and a brief discussion regarding ongoing water tower work.

City Council to Consider Ford Road Infrastructure Purchase, Cemetery Expansion

Geneseo city officials are expected to discuss several infrastructure and community projects during meetings scheduled for Tuesday, June 23, including a major purchase tied to the Ford Road redevelopment project and updates to Oakwood Cemetery.

The Committee of the Whole will meet at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers, followed by a Special City Council meeting at 6:20 p.m. to consider a time-sensitive infrastructure purchase.

Ford Road Project Moves Forward

The most significant item on the agenda involves the Ford Road TIF redevelopment project.

Council members are expected to consider purchasing $126,395 in lift station components, including pumps, controls, and access hatches, for a planned sanitary sewer extension serving the Ford Road development area. City staff said the equipment is being requested early because of extended manufacturing and delivery timelines.
The infrastructure project is part of a broader public-private partnership involving JFECC. Plans call for a new 20,000-square-foot commercial facility on Ford Road and future expansion of operations along South Chicago Street. According to city documents, the private investment could total up to $8 million across two phases.

City documents estimate the public wastewater infrastructure portion of the project at approximately $1.26 million. Officials have said those costs are expected to be recovered over time through tax increment financing revenues generated within the redevelopment district.

Cemetery Expansion Proposed

The Committee of the Whole will also review revisions to the city's cemetery rules and regulations.

The changes would formally add newly developed Sections 34 through 37 at Oakwood Cemetery and establish monument and memorial standards for those areas.

Police Promotion Scheduled

The agenda also includes the swearing-in of Elliott Vermeire to the position of sergeant with the Geneseo Police Department.

Following Committee of the Whole discussions, council members are expected to convene a Special City Council meeting to formally recommend approval on the Ford Road lift station equipment purchase at the next council meeting consent agenda.

Geneseo Women’s Club Hosts Salad Supper for 2026 Music Festival Queen Candidates

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   Anna Davis, left, and Kjerstin Wildemuth, far right, both candidates in the Geneseo Music Festival Queen Pageant, are photographed while visiting with Liz Parrish, vice president of the Geneseo Women’s Club, and Linley Stees, club president, at the recent salad supper hosted by the Women’s Club and held in the Central Schoolhouse Inn. 

The salad supper has become a tradition which the Women’s Club hosts each year for the queen candidates and their guests, in addition to members of the pageant committee.  Photo by Claudia Loucks

School Board Delays Solar Project, Explores Greenhouse Idea and Reviews District Finances

The Geneseo School Board voted Thursday to postpone a decision on a proposed solar energy project after board members expressed differing views on the project's timing, location, and potential long-term savings.

The discussion came during a meeting that also included updates on district finances, enrollment planning, a possible greenhouse project at Geneseo High School, student achievement, athletics, and the performing arts.

Solar Project Tabled Following Debate

The board spent much of the evening discussing a proposal that would install solar panels capable of generating approximately 38% of the district's electricity needs.

District officials said the project could reduce utility costs and help advance the board's long-term goal of reducing future budget deficits.

Others questioned whether enough information had been gathered about the project's location and whether the district had received sufficient community feedback before moving forward.

Board member Casey Disterhoft said he would have preferred additional time to gather input from residents and better understand the community's perspective.

Board member Kyle Ganson argued that delaying the project could mean missing an opportunity to save taxpayer dollars.

After discussion, the board voted 4-2 to table the project and revisit it at a later date.

Greenhouse Proposal Remains in Early Planning Stages

Board members also received an update from the Building and Grounds Committee on a proposed greenhouse project that could eventually be constructed.

According to district officials, the greenhouse could support agriculture, science, family and consumer sciences, and other educational programs.

At this stage, however, the project remains largely conceptual. Administrators said additional work is needed to determine a location, develop plans with an architect, and obtain cost estimates before the board can consider moving forward.

District Continues Long-Term Budget Planning

Administrators also reviewed the district's financial outlook.

Chief School Business Official Tim Gronski reported that the district has received approximately $1.46 million in local school 1% sales tax revenue in this fiscal year.

At the same time, officials said transportation and special education costs continue to rise faster than state reimbursements.

According to district leaders, one of the district's long-term goals is to gradually reduce future budget deficits by aligning staffing levels with enrollment through normal retirements and resignations rather than layoffs.

The strategy has become an increasing focus as district enrollment has declined over the past several years.

State Education Changes Could Affect Local Schools

Superintendent Dr. Laura Delgado also briefed board members on several education bills recently approved or in the legislative pipeline within the Illinois General Assembly.

Among the changes expected in coming years:

  • New restrictions on student cellphone use during the school day.

  • Expanded career and technical education options for high school students.

  • Changes to foreign language graduation requirements.

  • New limits on suspensions for younger elementary students.

  • Additional mental health policy requirements for school districts.

New Club Approved

The board unanimously approved a new high school student organization called Bridge.

The student-led club is designed to help foster connections between general education students and students with special needs through games, crafts, activities, and social events.

Graduate Plans Shared

Delgado also shared information about the Class of 2026.

Of the district's 184 graduates:

  • 129 plan to attend college.

  • 15 plan to enter vocational, technical, or apprenticeship programs.

  • 18 plan to enter the workforce.

  • 5 plan to enter military service.

District officials said they are continuing efforts to better track student outcomes after graduation as part of ongoing strategic planning efforts.

The board's next gathering will be a strategic planning retreat on July 9. The regular July board meeting has been canceled.

See the full June 18 board packet here.

Pickleball for a Purpose: Humane Society Scramble Returns June 27

A day of friendly competition on the pickleball courts will help provide food, shelter, medical care, and second chances for homeless animals when the Henry County Humane Society hosts its 2nd Annual Pickleball Scramble on Saturday, June 27.

The fundraiser will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Richmond Hill Park, 600 H. K. Robinson Drive in Geneseo, with players from across the region coming together to support the nonprofit no-kill shelter.

While participants will be battling for points, medals, and bragging rights, organizers say the event is ultimately about something much bigger.

Register Here

Every registration helps support the Henry County Humane Society's mission of caring for abandoned, neglected, and homeless animals while working to find them safe, loving homes. As a no-kill shelter, the organization relies heavily on donations, fundraising events, volunteers, and community support to continue providing care for animals waiting for their forever families.

"Every animal that comes through our doors has a story," shelter supporters say. "Some have been abandoned, some have been surrendered, and some simply need a second chance. Events like this help make those second chances possible."

The scramble format is designed to be both competitive and welcoming. Players will compete in round-robin play based on skill level, rotating partners throughout the event. No partner is required to register.

The event will feature men's and women's doubles play, with participants typically playing six to seven games. Games will be played to 11 points, and medals will be awarded to the top finishers in each bracket.

Participants must be at least 18 years old to compete. Registration is $40 and includes play along with complimentary snacks.

Organizers expect the event to once again bring together both experienced pickleball players and newcomers who simply want to support a worthy cause.

In recent years, pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing sports in America, but on June 27, every serve, volley, and point scored will also help support animals waiting for a home.

For the dogs wagging their tails in anticipation of a family and the cats curled up waiting for someone to notice them, the impact of the fundraiser extends far beyond the pickleball court.

Registration is open through June 21. Those interested in participating can register by clicking here or contact David Stover at 309-945-7700 with questions.

Whether competing for a medal or simply playing for fun, participants will be helping ensure that homeless animals throughout Henry County continue to receive the care, compassion, and hope they deserve.

Geneseo Police Warn That Some Popular Electric Bikes Are Not Street Legal

Geneseo Police Chief Casey Disterhoft said the Geneseo Police Department does not allow the use of e-bike motorcycles within the city. According to Disterhoft, local ordinances specifically prohibit them, and the department is also relying on applicable state laws when enforcing those regulations.

"Our stance as a police department is that they're not allowed," Disterhoft said.

He noted that many of the vehicles causing concern are not traditional e-bikes, but rather electric motorcycles that often lack pedals and are intended for off-road or private-property use. Some models cost more than $1,200 and are marketed in ways that may lead parents to believe they can be legally operated on public streets and property.

The department has already conducted two traffic stops involving these vehicles in recent days and is working to educate both riders and parents about the rules. Officers have spoken directly with some young riders and contacted parents to ensure they understand the restrictions.

Disterhoft said the department is developing a broader public information campaign that will focus on educating families rather than simply posting a list of regulations.

The department is also asking residents to help identify violations. Anyone who observes these vehicles being operated on public streets, sidewalks, parks, trails, or other public property within Geneseo is encouraged to contact the Geneseo Police Department at 309-944-5141. Officials say reports from the public can help officers educate riders and parents before a crash or serious injury occurs.

"We're trying to get the word out before something bad happens," Disterhoft said. "The message to parents is simple: these vehicles are not allowed on public streets, sidewalks, parks, or other public property within the city. They're intended for private-property use only."

Hospital Sponsors Coin Hunt as Part of 125 Anniversary Celebration

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Hammond-Henry Hospital is offering a community-wide coin hunt to kick off the celebration of 125 years that the hospital has “improved the quality of life through excellence in health care to local residents.”

 There are 125 commemorative coins hidden in the Geneseo area. (See attached map).

 The hunt for coins begins Saturday, June 20.  Coins will be visible so those people hunting the coins are asked not to dig up the ground, rummage through or disturb merchandise while looking for a coin.

Participating businesses will display a flyer in the front of their establishment if a coin is inside.

Coins that are found may be taken to Hammond-Henry Hospital to claim a prize at the front desk at the north entrance.  Prizes may be claimed between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Monday through Friday.

Upcoming 125th anniversary events during the next few months include Hammond-Henry Historical Timeline to be showcased on first floor, student artwork and stories, time capsule display and “Generations Upon Generations” video.

From State Finals to Flower Bouquets: A Month of Growth for Geneseo FFA

What a superb kickoff to a new FFA year! This month’s recap will cover our many successes in the month of May, including District 1 Public Speaking, State Parliamentary Procedure/Conduct of Chapter Meetings, Points Chart Trip, Adopt-A-Highway, SAE Tour, and our Bend Don’t Break Event.

District 1 Public Speaking

Dawsyn, Kolby, and Faith participated in the District 1 Public Speaking LDE. This contest provided members with an excellent opportunity to strengthen their communication skills, build confidence speaking in front of others, and further their understanding of important agricultural topics.

May Adopt-A-Highway Cleanup

Dawsyn McDonald competed in Extemporaneous Speaking, which means she was required to prepare and deliver a speech on an agricultural issue within a limited amount of preparation time. Kolby Causemaker competed in Prepared Speaking, which required her to research an agricultural topic, write an original speech, and present it before a panel of judges. Faith Kuster competed in Creed Speaking, which asks participants to recite and interpret the FFA Creed while answering questions about its meaning and purpose.

We are incredibly proud of these members for representing our chapter at District and continuing to grow as well-spoken leaders and communicators!

State Parliamentary Procedure/Conduct of Chapter Meetings

Both our Parli and Conduct teams competed at the state level on May 7th. It was a great experience for both teams and a fun way to wrap up the contest season as the school year came to an end.

The Parliamentary Procedure team included Chairperson Hannah Wildemuth, Floorperson 1 Dawsyn McDonald, Floorperson 2 Annabelle Betcher, Floorperson 3 Jackson Frank, Floorperson 5 Jacey Gehl, and Floorperson 6 Ella Schaaf.

The Conduct of Chapter Meetings team consisted of President Faith Kuster, Vice President Ashlynn Chamberlain, Secretary Delaney Killian, Reporter Faith Schaver, Treasurer Lili Marshall, Sentinel Molly Wannemacher, and Advisor Henry Dwyer.

We are very proud of these teams for earning the opportunity to compete at the state level!

Points Chart Trip

Every year, members with the most participation points are invited to go on an educational (but fun!) trip with their fellow members at the top of the points chart. This year, Living Lands and Waters welcomed us onto their “floating classroom,” the Mississippi River Institute. 

Members learned about the founding of Living Lands and Waters, how barges operate, and the many career opportunities available on the river. They also heard from a guest speaker, an Illinois DNR fisheries biologist, who shared insights about fisheries management and careers in the field. It was a fun day filled with learning and exploration. 

Adopt-A-Highway

Bend Don’t Break Grant - Petals for Positivity at the Local Motive

Members wanting to use their time for good helped out at our May Adopt-A-Highway event. Cleaning up everything from plastic bottles to vehicle debris, members worked hard to help keep our community clean. It was a great way to give back while spending time with fellow FFA members.

SAE Tour

Members invited their families to come experience and learn about SAE projects throughout our chapter. Fueled by Kim Chamberlain’s famous cinnamon rolls, members carpooled across Geneseo and got to see where their friends spend so much of their time and hard work. A few stops included Kat Zelnio Quarter Horses with Annabelle Betcher, Pink Prairie Gardens with Jack Gehling, and a cookout at Frank Pumpkin Farm to end the day. It was a great opportunity to learn more about the diversity of SAE projects within our chapter, and we look forward to doing the SAE Tour again in the future!

Bend Don't Break Event

With the help of the Bend Don't Break Grant, we were able to spread Petals for Positivity throughout our community. Members put together beautiful bouquets to hand out to community members on Thursday morning before school outside of The Localmotive. Each person walking by was offered two bouquets of flowers, one to keep and one to give away to keep spreading positivity. It was a simple but meaningful way to spread kindness and keep positivity flowing throughout our community.