Sold Whitewalls - By Dan Dauw

When I Wasn’t Old

Remember the little swing-out, ventilated windows on cars? I wonder how and why those ’40s ’50s and some early ‘60s cars had those? Probably with more and more cars sold with air conditioning those little ventilated side windows weren’t needed.
Changing oil and anti-freeze were an easy job to do. Today, forget it! Everything is buried under the hood.
My dad’s first car was a Ford Model A. He told me that car tires were not the best. He said sometimes drivers would get blow-outs going over hot tracks just after the train was passed.
One thing I do remember were the downtown trolley car rails. I don’t ever remember seeing the trolleys.
How ‘bout changing the windshield wipers back then? Pain in the rump. The pair I had on my Willy’s Aero had only one speed. I wish they still sold whitewalls. They were hard to keep clean, but they were neat on cars. Remember the “moon” wheel covers? A lot of cars in the ‘50s were two-toned. The top was usually white or black.
I enjoyed waxing cars and picked up some extra bucks along the way. Best wax back then was J-Wax. Maybe like you, I had a lot of cars and a few trucks starting around 1958 and so on. In my opinion, American cars were pretty much junk back then. If you got 100,000 miles consider yourself lucky.
It’s different today as foreign cars woke up Detroit and they’re pretty reliable vehicles these days. Ha! I say that and I have two “foreign” cars in the garage! At my 82 years, I don’t see us getting a new car unless the “boss” is tired of her ’21.

New Top Nation’s Farm Gal

It looks like there may be a new head of Agriculture Secretary (USDA). If she is confirmed, Brooke Rollins, will succeed the Biden’s administration’s Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. What I’ve read through the years that Vilsack has done an excellent job.
Ms. Rollins has a very impressive record of accomplishments having graduated from Texas A&M University and earned her J.D. from the University of Texas. She received an undergraduate degree in agricultural development. It appears Trump made a very wise choice in selecting Brooke Rollins for that position.

Deer Rut Season

Keep in mind that bucks have a surge in their testosterone levels during this time of the year. That means they have one thing on their mind and that doesn’t include watching out for vehicles, especially in the evening and early morning.
Through the years, Lorna and I have hit four deer. That is no fun! At night use your brights unless traffic is coming the opposite way. Remember, sometimes there is more than one deer on the side of the road.

Ice Fish’n?

Sadly, I guess I’ll have to hang up the old rods ‘n reels until Spring. It will be up to Mother Nature if she wants to throw me a nice day or two for some soft water fishing.
Last February we had two really nice days and there was still some open water. The fishing was excellent!

Christmas Humor

1. Who is a Christmas tree’s favorite singer?
   Ans: Spruce Springsteen.

2. What’s everyone’s favorite breakfast in the North Pole? Ans: Mistle Toast.

3. What did the gingerbread man put on his bed?
   Ans: A cookie sheet.

4. How does the snow globe feel this year?
   Ans: A little shaken.

5. What do you call a shark that delivers toys at Christmas?Ans: Santa Jaws.

Quote of the Week

“I honestly believe it is better to know nothing than to know

what isn’t so.” - Josh Billings

Bring Your Own Drumsticks - By Dan Dauw

My Poem

Roses cause lice,
Violets like mice;
But my poems,
Are always nice!

The holidays are very near,
And ‘da Bears are nothing to fear;
I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving Day,
This poem is free, you need not pay;

So, watch out for deer when driving at night,
And if you read this poem, you’re not mentally
Right!

When I wasn’t Old!

Do you remember the former and late governor, George Wallace? He was hardly a friend of black folks and was a racist. He spoke at a rally at the Wharton Field House in Moline. A buddy and I had nothing to do so we drove over there to see what it was all about.
It was October 21, 1968. We didn’t go inside, but outside there were a lot of demonstrators with signs backing Wallace. There were some fights, too. Several windows were broken. We didn’t stick around for fear of getting hit with a brick or whatever. He was shot in 1972 and was paralyzed.
Speaking of racism, I remember in 1959 my dad and I drove to Florida. One time we stopped in Georgia for gas and there was a water fountain at the gas station. Above it a sign read, “Whites Only.” The bathroom was also so marked. I was a teenager at the time, but I thought it was odd. We didn’t travel much when I was a kid. As to vacations, it was either Lake of the Ozarks or The Dells.

Geneseo’s Solar Project

I don’t know all the particulars, but from what I’ve read it sounds like a Geneseo “win-win” scenario. I noticed Colona has some solar powered panels and Geneseo has them on the south part of town by the wind turbines.
The next time you drive out to Bishop Hill, you will see a lot of wind turbines. Some say they are noisy and kill birds. For me, I’m for harnessing wind power except I don’t like destroying the beauty of the countryside.

An almost 4 pound Largemouth (the fish, not me!). I caught it last week at a private lake.  It was released.  

Bears Another Loss

And I’m afraid there will be more bad news for ‘da Bears before the season is done. A bright spot is even though they lost to Green Bay, I think the new Offensive Coordinator has his act together. Same goes for QB Williams. Next up, the Vikings and then Detroit on Thanksgiving Day. Ugh!!!!

Humor

1. What’s the official dance of Thanksgiving called?

   Ans: The turkey trot.

2. What was the turkey suspected of?

   Ans: Fowl play.

3. Why was the turkey asked to join a band?

   Ans: He could bring his own drumsticks.

4. Why did the turkey cross the road twice?
   Ans: To prove he wasn’t chicken.

5. What’s something insulting, but not on Thanksgiving? Ans: A family member giving you the bird.

Quote of the Week

“You shall judge a man by his foes as well as by his friends.”

What Else Can I Do While I’m Down Here? - By Dan Dauw

When I wasn’t old!

The farthest back I can remember seeing a U.S. President was Harry Truman. That was seeing him on our 14” TV set and he was talking about the Korean “Conflict.”
It was not called a “War” until years later. The first U.S. President that I voted for was JFK. A lot of people don’t know it, but when Kennedy ran for election, he stopped in the Quad Cities. He gave a speech in the gym at Rock Island High School. A buddy and I waited in line to see what he had to say. We were really impressed with the man. Who would have thought that years later Lorna and I would see the building from where he was assassinated.
We helped chaperon the Geneseo H.S. Band and our touring bus stopped to show us the building & window from where Oswald did his dastardly deed. The last President I voted for was Jimmy Carter. Lorna’s cousin, Ray, worked at the White House and liked Carter. Ray once gave me a private tour of the place. That’s a whole different subject in itself and I had my 15 minutes of glory. Anyway, it happened “when I wasn’t old!”

Veterans Day

Gary Dahlquist, John Cahalan and myself took advantage of a great breakfast courtesy of Hy-Vee. It was to honor we veterans and it was really, really nice. A big “Thank You” goes to all the local Hy-Vee stores for hosting the event.

The local Hy-Vee stores honored veterans with a really nice breakfast on Veterans Day. Veterans Gary Dahlquest, John Cahalan and Dan Dauw are shown in the foreground. Gary D. and John C. are residence of Geneseo. Dan D. is from Colona.  

Bad News Bears

My gosh, they looked totally horrible at last Sunday’s game with the ‘Pats. They are going to get crushed when they play the other three NFC North teams.

Yedi

Or if you prefer, Sasquatch, Bigfoot, or Abominable Snowman, this real or fake creature still seems to pop-up somewhere. The latest sighting happened last month when a contract driver for the Postal Service had a close encounter with an 8 feet high creature, standing on two legs, covered in brown hair and yellowish, glowing eyes. It happened in Peoria County & Rt. 9. If you read about the entire event, I have to say that I think there is some credibility to his story.
He said he only saw the thing for a few seconds along the road, but it really did scare him. He was teased from his fellow employees, but he stands firm on what he saw. He said, “All I know is, it scared the absolute hell out of me!”

Geneseo Ikes Christmas Party

The Geneseo Izaak Walton Club members and guests are reminded to circle your calendar for Saturday, December 7. That is when their club’s annual Christmas Party takes place.
It starts at 5 p.m. in the club’s lodge. I’ll have more details as time moves on. It is always a fun event.

Humor

The other day I stooped to tie my shoelace and thought to myself, “What else can I do while I’m down here?

Yesterday I fell down. Lorna asked if I was alright? I answered, “No, I’m half left.”

What do you call a million rabbits walking backward? Ans: A receding hareline.

Senior Bumper sticker: “Honk if you still have all your original body parts.”

Quote of the Week

“The true work of art is but a shadow of the divine perfection.” - Michelangelo

Venomous Snakes - By Dan Dauw

Congrats to President Trump

I’m glad I was wrong thinking that Harris would win the presidency. The people spoke loud ‘n clear, it is time for a change. The results should send a message too the national media. Be honest and fair with no bias towards either party. Try it! You may get back the respect and trust of much of the American people.

Glen Anderson

This Geneseo gentleman is one amazing fellow. He has done a tremendous amount of volunteer work for much of his 90 years on this planet. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Glen through his work with the Geneseo Izaak Walton League.
He was also a volunteer for 30 years with the Geneseo High School football program. He has given a zillion presentations on prairies, conservation, birds (Birdman of Henry County), wildlife, etc.
To add to his many awards and accolades through the years comes one more. On Thursday, October 31, 2024, Brian Herron, President of the Geneseo Izaak Walton League, along with Geneseo Ike’s members, Vic Blanchetta, Fran Kiger and myself, presented Glen with a beautiful plaque which read: Izaak Walton League of America, Illinois 2024. “Winged Preservation Award” Presented to Glen Anderson in recognition for your dedication to the preservation of pollinator gardens for birds, bees and butterflies.”
Because of health reasons, Glen can no longer present his excellent programs on environmental issues, nature, etc. I should also mention that he has built many bluebird houses and placed them at various locations. His accomplishments are so many, one could almost fill a book.
So, “Congratulations” goes to Glen on receiving the award. We wish the very best to both he and his wife, Janet, on all their years of volunteer work.

When I Wasn’t Old

When I was around age 9 or 10 and before it was time to go to bed, I would yell “E-Ugh-Key” out my window to our neighbor kid, Dave Holst. It was supposed to be our secret code. What it meant, I do not remember. We didn’t do it in the winter. I can remember I was spoiled being the only child. I don’t mean all “only childs” are bad, but I got most of what I wanted. Fortunately, I had a great friend that brought me down to earth. He “unspoiled” me!

The Current Scene

Dalcon DeMaranville, along with Art Neuleib and Garrett Newman, are a team that puts together the Geneseo Current.com and the relatively new, “The Current Scene.” A few weeks ago, Dalcon gave a nice presentation to the Geneseo Kiwanis. It was about the Geneseo Current.com and The Current Scene. The ‘Scene is free and is available at various Geneseo locations. The main focus of the pub is to provide information on Geneseo festivals, sporting events, businesses and individuals that make the town of Geneseo so unique.

Short Animal Quiz

1. Spiders have 8 legs, but how many eyes do they have? Ans: 8.

2. A sleuth is a group of what animals? Ans: Bears.

3. Alligators are native to what to two countries? Ans: USA and China.

4. How many venomous snakes are found in England?

   Ans: 1.

5. How many venomous snakes are found are found in Washington, DC? Ans: All of them.

Quote of the week

“Politicians are all the same all over. They promise to build a bridge even where there is no river!”

• Nikita S. Khrushchev

It Depends - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

When I Wasn’t Old

A week or so after high school graduation, 1960, my good buddy, Ron DeBruyckere (now deceased) and I went to work at a resort in Canada. On a lonely road heading to the place the generator on my ’54 Willys went kaput! Finally, a Canadian stopped, took me to a gas station, and all be darn if they didn’t have a used one for my Willys.
The fella took me back to our car, installed the generator and off we went. I hope I tipped him for all his toil. We were there about a week when our cabin stove stopped working. We had the owner’s wife come over to fix it. We didn’t know it at the time, but she recently had a nervous breakdown. Anyway, the gas had built up and she went to light the pilot light. BANG!!!! The explosion knocked her against the wall. She was really mad. We were fired and left for home the very next day. Not one of my best trips to Canada!

Yay, No More Political Ads

If you didn’t vote, and could have, shame on you. I voted early via the mail and Lorna at the voting booth. As usual, I think there were plenty of lies to go around, both from elephants and donkeys. Prediction? Harris wins. Certainly not by my choice. I hope your picks worked out for you, but if not, don’t worry the sky won’t fall and “chicken liken will make it across the road!”

Wild Game Feast

The Boy Scout Troop 131 will host their annual “Wild Game Feast” on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at the Geneseo Moose Lodge. The hours are from 4:30 – 7:00 p.m. A donation of $12.00 per person for ages 13 and over. For ages 4-12 it’s only $6.00 per person and free for ages 3 and under. We go to this event every year and it’s great!

Pro/Tech Auto Body

So, I was in a big hurry to go fishing and backing out of our garage I caught the front bumper of the SUV on our snowblower. It was not a pretty picture. I heard through the grapevine that Pro-Tech in Geneseo does nice repair work. I agree, it now looks good as new.

Fishing Report

Great for trout. Poor for crappies! For trout, Lorna and I fished the Centennial Park Lake, Rock Falls, IL. We fished two days and had enough rainbows for 3-4 meals. We never caught our limit of 5 each, but came close on the second day.
Gary Dahlquist and I tried a private lake for crappies. We had a total of 3 for two days. Good size for “paper mouths,” but hardly enough for a meal. Oh, well. Some days are diamonds and some days are stone.

Senior Humor

1. What goes up but never comes down? Ans: Your age.

2. Which underwear do seniors love best? Ans: It Depends.

3. How is the moon like dentures? Ans: Both come out at night.

4. Be kind to your kids. They choose your nursing home.

5. Why do retirees smile so much? Because they can’t hear a word you’re saying.

Quote of the Week

“Wait until it is night before saying it has been a fine day.”

• Proverb

The Pharmacy and the Bathroom! - By Dan Dauw

When I Wasn’t Old

I think it was in 1959 myself and two buddies drove our Mo-Peds out to Geneseo to view the country side. Now don’t think I’m nuts, but we came across, somewhere north of Wolf Road, a WW1 tank. It was small compared to say a Sherman tank. It was just sitting all by itself on the side of the road and rusting away. How long it had been sitting there I don’t know?
I remember hunting outside of Geneseo when I was a teenager. There were three of us and we would always stop at Bob Cherry’s Gas Station (where the new coffee place is now). I remember I bought a shotgun and shells from Bob. I think he moved out east and for a time he sold replica firearms.
One time I was driving my trusty 1954 Willys and I hit a raccoon. We stopped the car as our one friend wanted the pelt. He put it in my trunk and when we got to his house in East Moline we opened the trunk. That big old bandit was plenty alive and scared the heck out of us. We slammed the trunk shut, got a board, opened the trunk and thus end of story.

Politics

Ugh! Won’t you be glad when it’s all over with? In my case, I doubt whether I’ll see another presidential election. Ha! Of course, that could be either good or bad depending on where my soul ends up.
I think this election will be close. I voted by mail, but some people I talked with thought that it might not be a good idea to do so. I trust the Postal Service and Henry County election folks to get it right.
Lorna is going to the polls to cast her votes. I sure see a lot of Trump signs in Henry County. I doubt it will change anyone’s vote, but who knows? If you want to see a lot of political signs check out Dayton Corners in Colona.

Neighborhood Wiener Roast

Our Dayton Valley View Addition had its annual neighborhood party last Friday evening. As always it was lots of fun and great food, too!
The mild temperatures, no wind and a full moon were a nice touch provided by Mother Nature. Ha-Ha! Lots of stories were told and even more after a few Budweisers!!!

Trout fishing was good on Tuesday morning, October 22nd, as shown 4 for Dan and 3 for Lorna. Trout for dinner!!!! 

Halloween

There sure are a lot of folks who celebrate this holiday. We travel Green River Road a lot and there is a large home in the Green River Hamlet that really goes all out with decorations. We put out a pumpkin and that’s just about it.

Ikes “Booo” Party

The Geneseo Izaak Walton Club will be having their annual Halloween Wiener Roast on Saturday, October 26th at 5 p.m. All members and guests are welcome. Bring a dish to pass, a chair to sit on, and hotdogs ‘n buns are supplied. You might want to bring your favorite drink, too!
There will be a nice fire to sit around on the east patio. See you then!

Trench

That is the name of an excellent book I have finished on WW1. The author is Stephen Bull. The book gives a history of trench warfare on the Western Front. It is by far “the” best book I think concerning the Great War. There are some fascinating photos taken of the horrible conditions both sides endured. There was such a murderous slaughter of young soldiers as they “went over the top” to face barbed wire, machine guns and artillery. Somewhere before I’ve read the following oddity before. The first British soldier to die in WW1 was Private J. Parr. The last British soldier to die was Private G.E. Ellison on November 11, 1918. Oddly, Elliston was buried just a few feet from Parr.

Humor

Remember guys ‘n gals when our hangouts used to be the sports bars and the coffee shop? Now it’s the pharmacy and the bathroom!

Quote of the Week

“My reading of history convinces me that bad government has grown out of too much government.”

• John Sharp Williams

Kitty Cat for Dinner - By Dan Dauw

When I Wasn’t Old

Two party phone line. Mom did not like it. Another thing she didn’t like were snakes, but I did. When I was around age 8 or 9 I had forgot I left a live garter snake in my pant’s pocket. The next time she washed clothes she found a very dead and smelly pet snake.
I remember I went through a stage where I wasn’t nice to my parents. Finally, they had it! Time for a physical lesson. My dad took a paddle from our ping-pong table and told me this was going to hurt him more then me. Four or five whacks on the rump really hurt, but the end result adjusted my temperament for the good! No, I did not do that course of action with our kids.
I remember in my younger days my mom had a clothes wringer/washer. It was nothing like they are today. No dryer and she dried our clothes outside. Wonder what she did in the winter?
My dad built quite a model railroad in our basement. One place was close to the downstairs bathroom and if the train went to fast it would tip over inside a tunnel. He eventually put a hole in the wall so he could get to the overturned Lionel.
Oh, and one thing we had which was illegal, was a “one armed bandit.” It was fun pulling down on the chrome arm to see if I could win. Never did!
Do any of you remember seeing, for the first time, Russia’s “Sputnik?” I think the entire neighborhood came outside to see it as it flew pass in the sky. “All this when I wasn’t old!”

Kitty Cat for Dinner

From our daughter in Lockport comes this event last week. DeeDee is a cat lover and when at night she had a stray cat that wanted inside. She brought the cat inside. Well, guess what? They have security cameras and waiting outside, there sat a fox “and” a bobcat hoping for a feline dinner. A few years ago, they had a coyote in their backyard.
They don’t live out in the country, but there are woods nearby. Felix, the cat, was either very smart, or one very lucky, whiney stray cat.

Bishop Hill Restaurants

One thing I haven’t mention at this Swedish hamlet are the really great eating places. They are: The Filling Station, PL Johnson’s, The Colony Inn, H. Wyatt Bakery and Karns Kafe. Really, they are all excellent.
One of my favorites, Karns Kafe, have great sandwiches, and awesome milk shakes. The Henry County Historical Museum will close on October 31 and will reopen in the spring.

Chris Thurman

He works for the Colona Police Dept and is a good neighbor. He likes to read this column. I now have 6 people who read this column! My goal is to get 8 new readers for 2025. Lorna and our kids say they read Dan D Outdoors. Ha! Of course, when I quiz them about any certain article, they always change the subject.

Sweet Peas

We think this restaurant has “the” best spare ribs. We always end up getting a “doggy bag” so there is enough for another meal the next day.
We ate their last Friday and happen to see Mike & Brenda DeKezel. They were going to the GHS football game. That’s good so the other couple can explain the game to those two Belgians. We were just about to leave when Megan H. showed up for work. She wasn’t our server so I didn’t have to give her a 50% tip she always expects from us. All kidding aside, if you haven’t tried Sweet Peas, do so.

‘Da Bears

As of this writing they are 4-2. They have a bye week with their next game on October 27th. The NFC North Division looks to be really good. If the Bears can’t go all the way I hope the Vikings can.

Fishy Humor

1. I went fishing just for the halibut. 2) I whale always love fishing. 3) Oh, my cod, I caught a big one. 4) It’s o-fish-al, I’m addicted to fishing. 5) I told a fish joke, but if floundered.

Quote of the Week

“We have it in our power to begin the world over again.”

• Thomas Paine

A Hippo is Really Heavy - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

When I Wasn’t Old

There used to be a ferry from Rock Island to Davenport. I think it was 5 cents to ride, but not sure. I only rode on it once with my Uncle Harlan. It was up river from the Centennial Bridge.
I also remember, that, for a short time there was a Navy Patrol Craft Escort tied up on the Davenport side of the Mississippi River. It was above the Government Bridge. I can remember that I was always afraid whenever my parents would drive over that bridge. Petersons Von Maur in downtown Moline’s 5th Avenue used to have a beautiful Christmas display. I loved to see the model electric trains. For a time my mom worked at Petersons as a sale’s clerk. Across the avenue was Parker’s store.
At different times both my mom and I worked for Grosman’s store on the 1600 block of 5th avenue. It was a Jewish run store and the owner, Sid Grosman, and others there were really nice. I had a crush on a waitress at Hughes restaurant that was just down the avenue. I was too scared to ask her for a date. Ha! She was almost twice my age.
When I could drive a car many of us would drag race the one ways in Rock Island and Moline. My first car was a 1954 Willys Aero and it was a dog.
One time some friends and I were walking on 15th St. just north of 19th Ave in Moline. All of a sudden we saw a car drag race by us and it hit a man carrying groceries. It made me so sick I threw up. I knew the kid who hit the man. Myself and friends had to go to court as witnesses.
Speaking of 19th Avenue, I’m sure not many remember, but there used to be a long boulevard from 15th St. west to about 2nd St. It was a two-way street until they tore it all up and made it partially 4 lanes as it is today. All this when I wasn’t old!

Bison Meat

Last week I made our annual trip to CSI Homes in Cambridge to purchase a good supply of bison meat. I always get the ground bison meat at $8.00 per pound. Lorna doesn’t care for it, but I sure do. It’s healthy as there is less fat. CSI also sells bison boneless roasts, ribeye bison steak and other bison meats.

Saukenauk BPS Annual Meeting

The Bi-State Sportsman’s Association, 571 Cleveland Rd., Colona, will host the Saukenauk Black Powder Shoot meeting on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at 10 a.m. Membership dues are $100.00 if paid prior to March 1, 2025.

Illinois Fall Trout Fishing

Reminder: The Illinois Fall Trout Season opens Saturday, October 19, 2024. The limit of trout is 5. Make sure you have your fishing license and Trout permit.

Henry County Historical Museum

Starting Thursday, October 31, 2024, this Bishop Hill museum will be closed. It will reopen on May 1, 2025. It’s just a short drive to Bishop Hill so enjoy the beautiful fall sites Bishop Hill has to offer. They have four really nice restaurants, too.

Drive Carefully

A short reminder to everyone that there are still farm fields to yield their corn ‘n beans so have patience if you encounter a slow combine, tractor, wagon and/or other farm vehicles. Also, watch out for deer, especially in the early mornings and late evenings.

Humor

What is the difference between a hippo and a zippo? Ans: A hippo is really heavy and a zippo is just a little lighter.

Sometimes I hear music from my printer. I found out it’s just the paper jamming.

Quote of the Week

“Brave actions never want a Trumpet.” - Thomas Fuller

Breath-a-Lasers - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

When I Wasn’t Old

In 1957 my dad and I went to Florida. I can remember seeing a water fountain at a gas station in Florida with a sign that read, “Whites Only.” We’re all familiar with the Chevrolet logo. Its nick name is “bow tie.”
A few days ago I sold my (deceased) mom’s 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL. It only had 70,000 miles. I can remember how she so loved that car. She could no longer drive and I remember her crying when we drove it home from Cape Cod. A long time ago I drove it over the Rock River bridge between Carbon Cliff and Colona. There was no traffic and in that short of speedway I hit 120+mph. Sad, but we don’t need 3 vehicles.
I had asthma as a kid. It was no fun and they didn’t have breath-a-lasers, or whatever you call those gadgets. My parents bought a big International Harvester window air conditioner and that helped somewhat during the pollen season. Could not have a dog as it was thought at that time it caused asthma attacks. Last attack was in Corfu, Greece at age 21.
Knew two classmates in grade school that came down with polio. Both had braces on their legs. Sad to say some kids made fun of the two. I hope I wasn’t one of them.
My dad pulled some strings and when I graduated from high school I worked as a stock chaser at International Harvester, East Moline. Made $2.33 an hour. Got laid off, took the post office test and carried mail at $2.16 an hour.
Remember “Kings?” You would cross your two fingers and hold them behind your back. This way it was okay to not tell the truth. All this when I wasn’t old.

Sorry Hummingbirds

The bees of plenty have taken over our two hummingbird feeders. They are so bad that they will not let the little birds have a drink. The bees were not bad until maybe two or three weeks ago.

Fishing Report

Last week myself, and two other friends fished in the morning on a private

lake. We caught 14 nice crappies, 8 bass, two bluegills and a big snapping turtle. At 11 a.m. they just completely quit. Had some crappies for supper and they were “so” good! Tried “Siggy Bay” recently on the canal and caught & released 3 nice size pumpkin seeds. I think they are the most beautiful fish of the sunfish family.

Sadly to Mention

Glenn Sigwalt, former Geneseo Ikes Board Member, recently passed away.  Some years ago a sign, "Siggy Bay" was erected by the bay honoring all his work on various projects. Submitted Photo

Two members of the Geneseo Izaak Walton recently passed away. Glenn Sigwalt joined in 1994 and Rex Rogers in 1999. I really did not know Rex Rogers very well other than he was a good volunteer and a nice person.
Glenn Sigwalt was also a good volunteer. He used to ice fish the canal bay east of the Ike’s lodge and did a lot of work with the various Izaak Walton events. Some years ago, the canal bay was named, “Siggy Bay” and a sign was erected in his honor. Both fellows will be sorely missed!

Grant Hatch, Colona, recently took this photo of Mr. Bob Cat as it prowled the Green River hamlet area of Colona.  Submitted Photo

Ag Days/Harvest Festival Successful

Bishop Hill’s “Annual 19th Century Harvest Festival” was really great. Lorna and I volunteered, as did others, at the Henry County Historical Museum. I gave a program on “Military Cutlery.” I was very happy with the turnout of visitors.
We had 181 that registered and toured the museum. It also happened to be the “40th Anniversary of the Henry County Historical Society Museum.” There were a lot of compliments on the former school turned museum.

Humor

What would the terminator be called in his retirement? Ans: The exterminator.

Some of you may not know it, but Bob Kuhns is not only a “musician,” but also a “magician.” Some think he is doing his disappearing act too often. I disagree.

I think it’s just a stage he’s going through! How do you organize a party in space? Ans: You planet.

Quote of the Week

“Death and life have their determined appointments, riches and honors depend upon heaven.”

• Confucius

When I Wasn’t Old - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

“When I Wasn’t Old”

If you regularly read this column you know that towards the end I have an article entitled “HUMOR,” followed by the “QUOTE of the Week.”
Starting this week, I will add a regular article, “WHEN I WASN’T OLD.” It will be about various happenings, experiences, and so on when growing up in the Quad Cities, Geneseo/Henry County, and foreign countries I visited “when I wasn’t old!”
So, let’s get started! 1) I had no siblings. I think it was one of those, “Ooops, no birth control pills in 1942. 2) Asthma was not fun, but I lied about not having it to get into the Navy. 3) Dad had a good job at International Harvester, East Moline Works. Great Dad, but alcohol, smoking and cancer took his life. 4) Mom worked at Grossmans store in downtown Moline. I worked there when I was a junior at Alleman H.S. Made .60 cents an hour. One time I took Miss America (1958 or ‘59) in the store’s elevator to second floor. There were other dignitaries with her. She wanted a hat and, as I remember, Mrs. Grossman gave her the one she liked. 5) Remember the three movie theaters in downtown Moline? There was also one on 23rd Avenue and the Roxie theater on 15th street. On Saturdays there were serials. “Rocket Man” was my favorite. Movie tickets were .25 cents and .10 cents for popcorn. 6) There were still electric trolley car tracks on 4th Ave going east from 34th St. Can’t remember seeing any trolleys in the late 1940s or ‘50s. 7) We got our first black & white, 14 inch screen TV set. It’s tubes kept burning out! 8) I remember my dad once said that Geneseo was a rich man’s town and that most folks there were farmers. In high school, myself and two friends rode out there a few times on our Mo-Peds with a top speed of 32 m.p.h. One time I got hit by a 1953 Buick in Rock Island. Just suffered bruises, didn’t wear a helmet, but no one did back then. 9) Do you remember parking meters? They had them in downtown Moline, but people and merchants complained so they were Kaput. 10) Okay, last one! One time, for fun, my best friend and I wore bright yellow pants to high school. Not too smart! Anyway, maybe some of the things I mentioned you can relate to, or find interesting?

Ag Days

Bishop Hill’s “Annual 19th Century Harvest Festival” will take place on Saturday, Sept 28 and Sunday, Sept 29, 2024. The Bishop Hill Heritage Association have scheduled a ton of events from old ways of farming to musical performances to a petting zoo to great food, etc.
Added to all this is the celebration of the “40th Anniversary of the Henry County Historical Society Museum” to be held on Saturday, Sept 28, 2024, at 2 p.m. just outside of the museum.
The guest speaker will be William Furry, historian, journalist and the Executive Director of the Illinois State Historical Society. For entertainment, Dan Holmes is an “old school singer and songwriter.” He has performed in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Iowa, Florida, Ohio and California. His music will touch you and inspire you.
In the museum I will present a program on “Military Cutlery” at 10 a.m. and again at 11 a.m. It was very well attended at the recent “Vintage Farm Equipment Show” in Atkinson, IL. We hope to see you at Bishop Hill, IL., on Sept 28, 2024.

Model Trains

While I still have my Lionel trains all set-up on our ping-pong table, they pretty much gather dust. Our 5 grandkids have little or no use for them.
So, I went on the internet to see if they had any worth, but the trains I have, while old, are not among the top 5 model trains. Joshua “Lionel” Cowan and Harry C. Grant founded Lionel Corporation in 1900.
Their first trains were on O gauge tracks. Mine are on the later model .027 tracks. One of the most expensive Lionel train sets went for $250,000 in 1934 at an auction house. There is some place in downtown Geneseo that have model trains. Someday I’ll see if they would like them.

Dayton Valley View Cookout

This Colona housing addition will have their annual cookout in the DVV Court on Friday, October 18, 2024. I don’t know the time, but I suspect 5 or 6 p.m.
As to the ending time, figure midnight or there abouts! Lots of Kool-Aid downed so it’s nice were all in walking distance of our homes! Great neighbors, great time!

Geneseo Ikes Cookout

All members and guests are invited to the Geneseo Izaak Walton Fall Weiner Roast. It will be held on the outside east patio on Saturday, October 26, 2024. It starts at 5 p.m. It’s always a fun event. Bring a chair, hot dog stick and covered dish. The club will supply the rest. There is just something nice about gathering with friends around a firepit.

‘Da Bears

They had better clean-up their act, or it’s going to be a long, long season. As to QB Williams, so far he isn’t showing all the hype bestowed on him. College football is one thing, but the Pros is quite another!

Humor

Bob Sellman told me once that he was allergic to peanuts. It’s so bad that he can’t even read Charlie Brown in the funnies! Bob’s lovely wife, Jan, really wants to buy one of those supermarket checkout dividers.
The problem is the check-out lady keeps putting it back. Years ago, I remember our daughter saying I don’t give her enough privacy. At least that’s what she said in her diary.

What did Beethoven become after he died? Ans: A Decomposer.

Here is something I really always wondered? Why do scuba divers always fall backward in the water? I finally found out why! It’s because if they fell forward, they’d still be in the boat!

Quote of the Week

“A slowness to applaud betrays a cold temper, or an envious spirit.”

• Hannah More

Symmetry - By Dan Dauw

AG DAYS, A BIG EVENT

Bishop Hill’s “Annual 19 Century Harvest Festival” will take place on Saturday, Sept 28 and Sunday, Sept 29, 2024. The Bishop Hill Heritage Association have scheduled a “boat load” of events from old ways of farming, musical performances, Author Mary David saver’s book signing, all kinds of great food, a petting zoo, and so much more.
Of course, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that I will be giving two presentations on “Military Cutlery” at the Henry County Historical Museum. The presentations start at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Saturday only.
I was really pleased at the number of folks who attended my lectures on the same topics at the recent Atkinson’s Vintage Farm Equipment Show.
The Henry County Historical Museum board, volunteers and the public are going to celebrate the museum’s 40 years since it was an elementary school. It will be held outside of the museum and there will be prominent guest speakers at 2 p.m.
Entertainment will be provided by Dan Holmes, singer/songwriter and former student when the building was a school. Roy Swenson, president of the museum, will talk about the event on KWQC-TV6. I think the interview is set for Sept 20th, but don’t hold me to that. Anyway, there has been a lot of hard work by a lot of volunteers so it should be a fun weekend. For more information you can e-mail: 1963hchs@gmail.com or phone (309) 927-3528.

Vintage Farm Equipment Show

As I mentioned in the above article, this event on September 14th was really nice. Dave Carton and his volunteers did a nice job putting the event together. I told Dave that in the past years of presenting various programs, this was the most attended. It was also nice seeing a few old friends, too!

Ham & Bean Supper

A giant “Thank You” to all those Geneseo Izaak Walton volunteers and Boy Scout Troop 100 who made the Sept 7th event so successful. The same goes to all you folks who attended the feast. The live entertainment provided by Paxton Sherbeyn was a nice musical touch, too! Great food and a great evening it was. Thanks, again!

The Grubs Got Us

Yeah, I was asleep at the switch and now I have “the” ugliest looking lawn in our neighborhood. I should have noticed it right away, but I did not. I since put down some stuff that is suppose to kill the “U(^*^%73” bugs, but with no rain it can’t do too much.
In our addition we are not suppose to water our lawns so I hope we soon will get some good rains. I enjoy gardening, but at 82, I just can’t get the old body to work like it did in the good ‘old days.
A cane is my companion and without it I’d be grounded. Lorna is still having problems with her back and thigh suffered from her falls.
Shots, pills, cane, physical therapy and myself help her, but it’s not a fun time! However, there are worse things many have to deal with.

Don Beck

This nice man recently passed away. The last time I visited with him was when he gave me two pictures of the old Mississippi River boat, W.J. Quinlan. She was 112 feet long and 40 feet wide. The boat was built in 1904 and she was condemned as unsafe in 1945. As a teenager, I remember the boat sitting on shore at the Rock Island boat landing. She was licensed to carry 500 passengers. I used to fish near the boat and I remember it was kind of sad to see it rusting away. On April 8, 1967, it was set afire by vandals. Getting back to Don Beck,
I remember him as being a really kind gentleman. I’m sure he will be missed by those who knew him.

Humor

Todd Sieben said he was not a big fan of stairs. He felt they were always up to something!

I recently had my whole left side of my body amputated. I’m alright now!

Where are all the mathematicians buried? Ans: In the Symmetry.

Quote of the Week

Chance is a word void of sense; nothing can exist without a cause.

• Voltaire

Red Tape Holds Up New Bridge - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

Where are the Birds?

I just don’t get it? Very few birds are stopping at our bird feeders and it has been that way this summer. At least we’re saving $$$ on bird seed!
This past spring we had many species of birds, but just a few stop by and not for very long. Grant you, I’m sure there are plenty of other food sources in the warmer months, but still, something is going on.
I should add that others I’ve talked with also wonder “Where are you tweedy birds?” We do have three hummingbirds that enjoy drinks from their special feeder. Besides feed we have water to wash it down with, but “no go” there, too.
I guess they can fly over to the canal which borders our land. Autumn isn’t far away with winter to follow so those non-snowbirds that stick around better take advantage of free meals.

Fido Sweats

That we know, but dogs do not sweat by panting. They release excess heat through their tongues while taking short, rapid breaths and sometimes as many as 300 to 400 per minute. This process expels hot air from their lungs and body cavities.
Such breathing is quick and shallow so it doesn’t use up much energy. See what you can learn by reading “Dan D Outdoors?”

Oops Headlines

1. “New Study of Obesity looks for larger Test Group.”

2. “Red tape holds up new Bridge.”

3. “Kids make Nutritious Snacks.”

4. “Typhoon Rips Through Cemetery---- Hundreds Dead.”

5. “Hospitals are sued by 7 foot doctors.”

Space

No, I’m not talking about that large amount between my eyes. I’m referring to “Outer” space! The next time you take a ride in the Skylab you will grow about 2 inches because of zero gravity. Earth is the only planet in our solar system that’s not named after a god. Okay, so who named this planet, “Earth?” Seventeen years ago a small meteorite found in Siberia sold for $122,750 at an auction in New York City. Probably some “Rock” star bought it!

Quiz

Let’s see how smart you are in the World of History? You can’t be too smart, ‘yer reading this column!!! Anyway, the answers below.

1. In what year did Elizabeth II become the queen of England?

2. In what year of the 1980s did the UK and Argentina go to war?

3. The ancient temple, The Parthenon, stands above which city?

4. Which U.S. President won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1919?

5. Which American industrialist invented the assembly line?

Humor

I told Lyn Paris ten jokes to make him laugh. Sadly, no pun in 10 did.

Waiter: “Do you wanna box for your leftovers?” Dale Kiser: “No. I’m more of a wrestler.”

Janet Anderson told her husband, Glen, to get 6 cans of Sprite from the grocery store. He realized when he got home that he had picked “7 up.”

Answers to Quiz

1. 1952 2) 1982 3) Athens 4) Woodrow Wilson 5) Henry Ford

Quote for the Week

“Age is a question of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.” - Satcheil Page

A Big NO-NO - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

Wingshooting Clinic

For those of you who want to learn to handle and shoot shotguns safely, the Illinois DNR and the Johnson-Sauk Trail S.R.A. will be offering an “Introductory Wingshooting Clinic” for all ages. Novice shooters are welcome.
Participants will learn to handle and shoot shotguns safely. They will practice the fundamentals of hitting a moving target.
The National Sporting Clays Association and IL-DNR certified instructors will supply 28 gauge semi-automatic shotguns. The clinic is sponsored by the Rock Island/Henry County Pheasants Forever. The fee is $10.00 per person. Registration is required. It will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at the Johnson-Sauk Trail Park, Rt. 78, Kewanee, IL. For more information call the office at 309-853-2425 or e-mail: DNR.JohnsonSaukTrail@illinois.gov.

Henry County Museum

I suspect in a few more weeks we will start having some nicer temperatures and fall colors. Whether then or now, consider taking a drive over to Bishop Hill and check-out the neat and quaint sites that historical town offers.
You shouldn’t have to drive home hungry as there are 5 really nice Bishop Hill restaurants: The Filling Station, PL Johnson’s, The Colony Inn, H Wyatt Bakery and Krans Kafe.
Besides other museums, make sure you stop in the Henry County Museum which is located a block and a half west of the main street (corner of Knox & Park Streets).
They are open daily from 10 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. May 1st through October 31st. It used to be a school and is all on one level. Lorna and I, along with other volunteers, host at the museum at different times during the open months. It really is a neat museum.

Animal Quiz

Let’s see how smart you are on animals that would compete against each other in a race? (Answers below)
1) For the 100-Meter Dash, what animal would be the fastest and swiftest sprinter on four legs? A. Black Bear B. White-tailed deer C. Coyote.
2) Which bird travels the farthest each year? A. Bobolink B. Hudsonian Godwit C. Pectoral Sandpiper.
3) With 50 meters to the finish line, which fish taps the wall first? A. Trout B. Northern pike C. Blue catfish.
4) Which critter would have the longest jump? A. Cottontail B. Bullfrog C. Mountain Lion.

Football Season

Yay, the season is finally here! Starting with the high school season, a few weeks ago Geneseo’s new varsity coach, Matt Furlong, was the guest speaker at a Kiwanis meeting.
I think the powers-to-be made a wise choice in hiring Coach Furlong. Of course, keep in mind a coach is only part of the winning equation. You need good players, a good schedule and maybe a little luck, too!

College football has started and those games I think are especially fun to watch. We’re rooting for Nebraska, Grand Valley State and Missouri because of our grandkids. Of course, we’re for Iowa State and Notre Dame, too!

The Pro-football regular season starts on “Grandparents Day” and it’s nice to be recognized! I think the NFC North division is going to be very competitive this year. Hopefully ‘da Bears are in the mix. They won all their preseason games, but the regular season is a whole different ballgame. “Go, Bears!”

Two Local Events Not Too Miss

The Geneseo Izaak Walton League will host their annual “Ham & Bean Supper” on Saturday, September 7, 2024, from 4 to 7 p.m. It will be held at the Ikes Park, one mile north of Geneseo off Rt. 82. The cost is only $10 per adult and $5 per child under age 10.
The soups and trimmings will be really, really good! There will be live entertainment by Paxton Sherbeyn. There will also be plenty of picnic table sitting and lots of parking spaces. A 50/50 drawing is available, too!
This big event helps to fund various projects held during the year. The Vintage Farm Equipment Show will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at Bridge Park, 19030 E. 2120 St., Atkinson, IL. It will be open from morning to afternoon. There will be lots of displays such as horse-drawn equipment, hit-miss engines, farm tractors and equipment, lawn and garden tractors, etc.
Food and drinks will be available. Dan Dauw, History Presenter, will provide two presentations on military cutlery from 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Animal Quiz Answers

1. C. 2) B. 3) G. 4) G.

Humor

1. Double negatives are a big NO-NO.

2. What do you say to comfort a a Grammer teacher? Ans: There Their They’re

3. “Can I ask you a question?” Ans: “You just have.”

4. A man went into a fish market and asked just for a tail. The man behind the counter said, “And they all lived happily ever after.”

Quote

The aim of education should be to teach us rather how to think, than what to think.

• James Beattie

Hopscotch has Become Break Dancing - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

Geneseo Ikes “Ham & Bean” Supper

This annual event is always very well attended. Besides being a big event it helps to fund various projects such as the campgrounds, road repairs, Kids Fishing Rodeo, improvements to the lodge, etc. The Geneseo Izaak Walton League will host the event which is open to the public.
It will be held at the Ikes Park, 1 mile north of Geneseo on Rt. 82. Date: Saturday, September 7, 2024. Time: 4 – 7 p.m. Cost: $10.00 for adult, Kids under age 10, $5.00. There is always plenty of parking and nice picnic Tables, too. The soups and trimmings are always really good.
For entertainment we are fortunate in having Paxton Sherbeyn. He plays the guitar and sings. He is a senior student at GHS and from what I hear, the lad is amazing. Moving on, we hope to see you there!

Fall Swap Meet

On Saturday, September 7, 2024, the Quad City In-Fisherman Club will host this popular event. It will be held at the QCCA Expo Center, 2621 4th Ave., Rock Island, IL. The hours are 8 to 11 a.m. Admission is free.
You will be able to purchase new or used hunting, fishing, camping, or trapping equipment. No guns or live ammo. They will be serving biscuits and gravy.

Vintage Farm Equipment Show

This is another enjoyable event held at Bridge Park, 19030 E. 2120 St., Atkinson, IL. It will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024, from morning to afternoon.
There will be lots of displays such as horse-drawn equipment, hit-miss engines, farm tractors and equipment, lawn and garden tractors (stock & Custom), vintage farm and motorcycles, etc. Food and drinks will be available.
Dan Dauw, History Presenter, will provide two presentations, 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., on military cutlery.
The nice thing is it coincides on that Saturday with Atkinson Heritage Days, September 12-15, 2024. Fun for the whole family! I noticed there will be a car show in downtown Atkinson on that Saturday. If any of you are interested in buying my (deceased) mom’s 1972 Mercedes-Benz 350 SL convertible/hardtop let me know. It is covered in a garage outside of McCausland, IA. It is a nice car (70,000 original miles) and I’ll sell it cheap. If interested, call me at 309-796-0795.

Aspirin

I have, for a long time, taken a baby aspirin every day. It has always been said it guards against a heart attack and stroke. In the latest issue of Consumer Reports “On Health,” depending on age and other health factors, it’s a “yes,” “no,” or “maybe” on the benefits of taking a daily aspirin. The next time you visit your doctor you may want to run it by he or she.
As for myself, I think I might continue taking a daily low-dose aspirin until my next visit to the doctor.

Geneseo H.S. Football

At the recent Geneseo Kiwanis “Steak Fry” meeting the guest speaker was Matt Furlong, Geneseo H.S. Head Football Coach. He seems like a good and knowledgeable fellow.
One thing we should all remember is that a coach can only do so much on winning a game. He or she cannot physically run out on the field to execute a play. Best of luck for a good season!

Humor

Bob Mays has become a real menace behind the wheel. The way he barrels around those hills and swerves all over the place. He’s a real threat. I wouldn’t be caught on the same fairway with him!

Evolutions

Iceboxes have become refrigerators. Stoves have become ranges. Roads have become freeways. Hopscotch has become break dancing.

Quote of the Week

“The common enemies of man: tyranny, poverty, disease and war.”

• John F. Kennedy

I'm Only Going to Demonstrate this Once - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

A Geneseo Classic Airplane Flight

Last year we attended a Boy Scout event which had various items or services in a silent auction. You could write down a bid and hopefully be the highest bidder. Well, we bid on a ½ hour flight in Kent Johnson’s WW2 replica Piper J-3 Cub. Our daughter’s youngest son, Caden Nommensen, 17, likes airplanes so he got the nod for the flight last Sunday from the Geneseo airport.
Unfortunately, the WW2 Piper J-3 Cub had a flat tire which isn’t the best when taking off and landing. Ah, but Kent had a friend, Dion Carr, Geneseo, who had a 1946 Aeronca Champ 2-seater plane that he would be happy to take Caden into the wild blue yonder.
It was a beautiful day for flying and it was kind of Dion as he through in an extra 15 minutes amongst the clouds. He even let Caden fly the plane for awhile. Both pilots, Kent Johnson and Dion Carr, were excellent about explaining the working of their aircraft. Dion also has an aircraft next to his Aeronca that he is rebuilding.
It was a great time for Caden, his parents and older brother plus Lorna and myself. Thanks Kent and Dion for making it so!

Experimental Aircraft Association

That’s “EAA” for short. It is an international organization of aviation enthusiasts based in Oshkosh, WS. Now I’m kind of ashamed, but while I love airplanes, I’ve never been to the Oshkosh annual event. It is the largest aviation gathering of its kind in the world.
Actually, the Geneseo EAA Chapter 410 has a program entitled “EAA Young Eagle Flight” and is provided by members of the chapter. It is for young people ages 8 – 17. It’s free.
If you have a youngster that has an interest in airplanes you can contact Kent Johnson at (309) 912-0437 or e-mail: Airport3G8@gmail.com.
Growing up I always liked airplanes ‘n still do! When I joined the Navy, many moons ago, I wanted to serve on an aircraft carrier and of the three ships, I spent the longest (two years) on the carrier, USS Independence. Whenever I had the chance I went to the o8 level on the ship’s “island” and watched the planes take off and land. It was not an easy task for those pilots especially in rough seas or at night. Those flyboys were a different breed I’ll tell you that.
Anyway, get in touch with Kent if you know of a boy or girl that likes airplanes and would like to touch the heavens above.

Olympics

So, what did you think? Great? We watched a lot of the various events. Lorna can’t move very well because of her bad back so both of us spent a lot of time in front of the boob tube. Our good old USA did really well in the number of medals awarded.
As of this writing we are tied with China with 40 for the gold. Our USA had a total of 126 medals. We had to pull for Belgium and actually they did pretty darn good with 3 Gold, 1 Silver and 6 Bronze medals. Belgium almost beat France in Men’s basketball for the Gold. Had they won they would have played USA, but it was not to be.
The game between USA and France was a somewhat close game until towards the end of the game with Curry hitting three “3s.” We really like the final ceremonies. Very “Artsy” as only the French know how. Well, Belgium, too!!

Ham & Bean Supper

This is a reminder that the annual Geneseo Izaak Walton Club will be hosting their annual “Ham and Bean Supper” on Saturday, September 7, 2024, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Ikes Park. This is a very popular event and it helps fund many noteworthy projects such as improvements to the campground, youth fishing derby, handicap ramp to the lodge and events for both the public and Geneseo Ikes members. The cost of the event is $10.00 per adult and $5.00 for kids under age 10.

Just some plane Humor

What did the kamikaze pilot tell his students? Ans: I’m only going to demonstrate this once, so look closely.

The attendant at the Delta Airlines check-in said to the passenger, “Window or aisle?” Ans: The passenger asked, “Window or you’ll what?”

Why was the airplane sent to its room? Ans: “Because it had an altitude.”

Quote

“The true work of art is but a shadow of the divine perfection!”

• Michelangelo

Dion Carr, pilot and member of the Geneseo EAA Chapter 410 presented a flying certificate to Caden Nommensen on Sunday, 8/11/2024. Photo Submitted

Geneseo pilot, Dion Carr (left), took Caden Nommensen for a flight in Dion's post WW2 Aeronca Champ airplane. Caden is the grandson of Dan & Lorna Dauw. Photo Submitted

Speed Bumps - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

Olympics

I’ve seen passed winter and summer Olympics, but this one is the best one yet, in my opinion. So many great stories told of the USA athletics. Just to mention one in particular was Noah Lyles winning the 100-meter final. He had overcome years of dealing with asthma and was still able to win the gold.
I know all about asthma and many times it was so tough to get a breath. I thought the opening ceremonies was neat with the boats on the river Seine. I wonder if they will have the same boats on the closing ceremonies? Probably not.
I had a little hard time understanding one of the British commentators with her heavy accent. As I write this China has won the most Gold metals with the USA way ahead of total metals. I’m sure I won’t be around for the next Olympics so I’m glad I was able to enjoy this one. Lorna and I watched a lot of the events so I really don’t have much new for this week’s column. Short ‘n sweet!!!

Cicada

I sure never heard cicadas in our neck of the woods, but Lorna said she thinks she heard them one day. As young cicadas tunnel out of the ground, some become infected by a fungus in the soil.
When the bugs shed their shells to become adults, the fungus makes their bottoms fall off. I guess they save on toilet paper!

Lucky

Last week I fed some unfrozen mice to our pet snake, Candy Corn. I only open a small part of the top of the aquarium and drop ‘em in. Usually, she grabs a mouse before it hits the bottom.
Well, Mr. Dufus here forgot to close the top of the aquarium and guess who made its exit?
Fortunately, we found her not far from her home. L-u-c-k-y!!!

To Bee or not to Bee

When you get stung by a bee, it mostly likely was a female. Male bees are all buzz, but no bite. Only female bees have stingers that can inject painful venom.

Politics

In my opinion, the Democrats made the correct call by picking Kamala Harris for their presidential nomination. I think Trump would have won had Biden stayed in the fray. I would like to see a debate between the two candidates. No live audience, too!

Humor

1. Vic Bianchetta was afraid of speed bumps, but he slowly got over them!

2. Linda Vanderleest decided to sell her vacuum cleaner. The reason being all it was doing was gathering dust!

3. Vern Mariman recently emptied his wallet into a bowl of nachos. I guess one could say he cashed in his chips!

4. Lyn Paris broke his leg in two places. His doctor told him to stay out of those places!

5. Todd Sieben heard music from his printer. He said there was no problem as it was just jamming!

Quote of the Week

“The true work of art is but a shadow of the divine perfection!”

• Michelangelo

Vivi la France! - By Dan Dauw

Galva Lions

Okay, so last Valentine’s Day Lorna and I celebrated our engagement anniversary at the Galva Lions Valentine’s Dinner at the VFW. It was a good time.
It just so happened the Galva Lions had a public steak dinners with all the trimmings on Wednesday, July 24th. That is the date of our wedding anniversary so why not celebrate the occasion in Galva’s Veterans Park. The ribeyes, sweet corn, baked beans, etc. were excellent and for only $10.00 per person. It was nice chanting with some of the Galva folks.

Geneseo Ikes Fish Fry

A quick reminder that the Geneseo Izaak Walton League will host their fish fry on Saturday, August 3, 2024, beginning at 6 p.m. in the lodge. All members and guests are invited. Bring a covered dish and drink. The food’s great and it’s a nice event.

Geneseo Ducks Unlimited Annual Banquet

This will be their 44th banquet event held on Saturday, September 21, 2024. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. with dinner served at 6 p.m. It will be held at the Best Western Inn, 315 Canal St., Annawan, IL. We’ve been to this event and it is awesome. Great food, raffles, live auction, new firearms, and a female-black lab puppy (13 weeks old). Seating is limited so no tickets sold at the door.
Register by Sept 9th. For a registration form or more info contact Dale “Double Barrel” Doubler, PO Box 142, Cambridge, IL 61238. Tickets are reasonable so get your reservation(s) in soon.

Eiffel Tower Dog Fight

Years ago, when I was in Paris for the first time, a cab driver told us sailors that in WW2 an American pilot in his P-51 Mustang chased a German pilot in his Bf-109 fighter “under” the Eiffel Tower. I didn’t think much of it back then, but since I looked it up on the internet I discovered it really did happen in 1944.
William Overstreet Jr. was the American pilot and after both fighters cleared the ‘tower, Overstreet turned on his guns shooting down the German plane after a long dog fight.
Can you imagine way back when if you were standing under the tower and you saw two planes heading for the Eiffel Tower?
If you get over to Paris it is a must to see the famous landmark. Go to the top tier for a great view of Paris. It is especially beautiful at night when it’s all lit up. Of course, there are a thousand and one things to see while there.
As a side note, Lorna and I were in Paris on Bastille Day in 2007. We were going to the top, but armed soldiers did not let people on the elevator. Maybe afraid of terrorists? I’d love to go there one more time, but it ‘taint going to happen. Oh, well, “Vivi la France!”

Austria 1964 Winter Olympics

When I was in the Navy I had a chance to visit Austria and Germany. It was in January, 1964, and the first stop was in Innsbruck and they were getting ready for hosting the winter Olympics. The new ice skating rink was completed.

I never put on a pair of ice skates, but I had to try it. I fell down constantly. The only other person on the rink was a young Austrian lady. She helped me more than once. She was pretty so I think I took a few “extra” falls. Anyway, I finally turned in the skates and left very humble.
I often wondered if the young lady was one of the 83 Austrian athletes that participated in the ’64 Olympics? Guess I’ll never know!

Olympic Ceremonies

Wow, what an awesome job the French did on the opening ceremonies in Paris. It was a great event even though Mother Nature got carried away with all the rain. I guess she didn’t get the memo!!
A side note: Singer Celine Dion “knocked ‘em dead” with her singing. Anyway, we’ll be wishing the best for our favorites, United Sates, Belgium, Canada, Israel, France, Mexico and Ukraine.

Lorna

I’d like to say her back problems have gotten better, but unfortunately, not so! The doctor said it is just going to take time to heal. There sure are a lot of folks who have back problems. It’s especially tough on older folks.

This is “Jeopardy”

If you are a fan of the popular TV show, Jeopardy, and especially, Alex Trebek, then head over to your friendly post office. The new “Forever” stamps, in sheet form of 20 stamps, honor Alex Trebek. He passed away in 2020.

Postal Humor

1. Dale Collis stopped at the Galva Post Office to mail 50 letters and so he bought 50 stamps. The postal clerk handed Dale the stamps. Dale said, “Geez, do I have to stick all these on myself? The clerk said, “No. You stick them on the envelopes.

2. Jan Weber took her parcel to mail at the Geneseo post office. She had postage on it, but the parcel was still too heavy and the clerk said it needed more postage. She thought to herself, “Yeah, like that’s going to make it lighter!”

Quote of the Week

“Advice is seldom welcome. Those who need it the most, like it least.”

• Samuel Johnson

They Choose Your Nursing Home - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

84 Charing Cross Road

That is the name of the recent comedy-drama play at the Richmond Hill Barn in Geneseo. Lorna and I attended the play on Saturday, July 20th.
Jackie Patterson, who played “Maxine,” did her usual excellent job. Jakie Skiles had a lead part and “knocked ‘em dead.” Other cast members who did a great job were Mimi Sweetser, Jim Strauss, Mischa Hooker, Elissa Dynes, John Simosky, Susan Hopton, and Rolan Swanson. Rolan reminded us of our one grandson, Caden Nommensen. Caden is a senior at Lockport H.S. and was a really good actor in plays, but he has other interests now.
In short, it was about an American writer and a British bookseller. We enjoyed the play, but it did have a sad ending. After the play I asked one of the staff members how they obtain all the props for the play. She said it can be very difficult to find the correct items. There will be future plays in August, October and November.
I noticed in the program an ad listing future plays at “The Black Box Theatre” in downtown Moline. One play that interests me is about WW1 entitled, The Weir. It is about the Christmas Truce of 1914.

Geneseo Ikes “Fish Fry”

All members of the Geneseo Izaak Walton League and guests are invited to the club’s fish fry on Saturday, August 3, 2024, beginning at 6 p.m. Bring a covered dish and a drink. If you like catfish, crappies, walleye and bluegill make sure to attend. It’s all free!

Stoolball

Baseball-like games can be traced back to the 14th century. Baseball was a descendant of a British game called “Stoolball.” It is still played in England, but the rules are different and the game is mostly played by women.
In 1330, poet William Pagula recommended to priests that stoolball be forbidden within churchyards. As to the Cubs, they should be forbidden to play anywhere!!!! Remember Sammy Sosa? Well, in May of 2004, Sosa sneezed so hard that he injured his back, sidelining the Cub’s outfielder and had one of the worst hitting slumps of his career.

Olympics, Sure Beats Politics

All of us have our favorite Olympic events. Any water sports I “surf” to a different station. Love gymnastics, track ‘n field, basketball and some others I can’t think of right now.

Slow With TV Messages

This drives us nuts when messages are put on the screen and we are given one second to read the translation or message and then, “poof” it’s gone!
With PBS as one exception, it is amazing how the TV networks have their commercials synchronized so we’ll get commercials no matter what station we go to. I used to watch the news on PBS, but “wow” have they switched from fair and honest reporting. Setting that aside, PBS has really good programming.
As to President Biden at age 81. I can understand he is calling it quits whether he really wanted to or not. In my humble opinion, I think Trump had a better chance running against Biden then Kamala. I won’t be around for the 2028 elections, but I do hope Nikki Haley gets the top job, or at least VP. As for now It will be interesting to see how it all plays out.

Yeah, I Needed A New Bumper

Two months ago Lorna had a scrape with a brick wall. The wall won!
So, last week it was my turn. I was in a big hurry to join the Dahlquist boys on a morning fishing adventure. Unfortunately, in my hurry the front bumper snagged on our snow blower and in my case, the snow blower won. A trip to Pro/Tech was the end result.
Oh, and how was the fishing you might ask? Not too good for me, but good for the other guys. They’re such show-offs!!!!!

Gnats are a Pain

Usually, these pesky little creatures last a week or two, but I seem to attract ‘em in our backyard or out fishing. On the plus side, mosquitoes this summer have not been bad in our neck of the woods.

Humor For Seniors

1. What’s the best part of old age? Ans: It doesn’t last very long.

2. I used to know a couple who grew fruit trees together. They lived to a ripe old age.

3. I called the incontinence hotline recently. They asked if I could hold?

4. Be kind to your kids. They choose your nursing home.

5. What’s worse than middle age? Ans: Knowing you’ll grow out of it.

Quote of the Week

“To appreciate heaven well, ‘tis good for a man to spend fifteen minutes in hell.”

• Will Carleton

Galaxy Vacation Trip - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

Long Range

I’m typing this the day after the shooting of Trump and others. It was reported that the shooter was 100 to 200 yards away from where he was shooting. Some of today’s AR-15 style rifles can reach out to 1,000 yards plus.
Of course, it takes certain calculations such as wind, cartridge, bullet weight and drop, etc. Let’s hope in the future that distance is taken into consideration by the Secret Service. Obviously, they know more than I do on security, but whether it’s on an AR-15 platform or a souped-up bolt action hunting rifle, long distance accuracy can be attainable.

License Renewal

Okay, I know some of it is me and my age, but I had a time trying to renewal my vehicle license plate sticker on-line. Fortunately, you can also renew by mail which was so much easier.

Galaxy Vacation Trip

You might want to re-think your vacation plans as I read recently that a trip around our galaxy would take 100,000 years to finish. I think I’d rather just drive to Canada and go fishing.
Also, forget planning a trip to Jupiter. Its gravity is more than two-and-a-half times greater than on Earth. I imagine sky diving would be a fast adventure providing the plane can get off the ground.

Geneseo Ikes Fish Fry

Members and guests are invited to the “Geneseo Izaak Walton Fish Fry” on Saturday, August 3, 2024, beginning at 6 p.m. Bring a covered dish and a drink. Last April’s fish fry was really nice featuring catfish, crappies, walleye and bluegill. So good!!!!! I’m sure this August’s fish fry will be great, too!

Geneseo Ikes “Ham ‘n Bean Supper”

This very popular event will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2024, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. It will be held at the Ikes Park. 1 mile north of Geneseo.
Besides good food, there will also be a 50/50 drawing. I believe there will also be live entertainment. Only ten bucks for adults, and children under ten, five bucks. For sure, It’s a fun time.

Bad Fall

Just an up-date for those of you who know Lorna, she had taken a bad fall recently at our house. After a trip to the RI hospital and a 7 hour wait in the Emergency Room, the x-rays showed a fracture on her spine. She has a back brace and takes medication. Unfortunately, it’s going to be a long haul. Ah, the “Golden Years.”

Civil War

General Joseph Mansfield spent months pestering the North’s War Department for a field command that would be his career’s crowning glory. He finally got his wish and was made commander of the Federal XII Corps. In less than an hour, he was killed leading his corps into action. I guess, “careful what you wish for!”

Humor

1) The other day I stopped at the DQ ice cream parlor. I slowly shuffled and painfully got up on the counter stool. I ordered a banana split. The waitress asked kindly, “Crushed nuts?” “No, I replied. Arthritis.”

2) Which underwear brand do seniors love best? Ans: It “Depends.”

3) Age is mind over matter. If you don’t “mind” getting older, then it really doesn’t “matter.”

4) Yesterday a bird bit me. “Owl.”

5) I always wanted to marry “Miss Right,” which I did. I just didn’t know her first name was going to be “Always.”

Quote of the Week

“So now he is a legend when he would have preferred to be a man.”

• Jacqueline Kennedy

A Pig that Does Karate - By Dan Dauw

Fun time on the Fourth

It was a grand ‘ole time in the Geneseo Park on the 4th of July. It started off with the Geneseo Kiwanis “Pork in the Park” from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. They served up pork chops, pork patties, etc. Hard to beat food from Fareway!

Of course, one has to save room for dessert and that was provided by the Geneseo Maple City Band volunteers (MCB). Lorna and I had the task of taking in the donations which averaged about $5.00 per person. However, a lot of folks bumped up their donations to $10.00 and more. I won’t mention names, but we received checks from $100.00 to, believe it or not, $500.00.
It was cute, there was one little girl who emptied her little purse full of coins.
Geneseo has always been known for its generosity and volunteerism. It sure showed it at the event. I think the Geneseo Kiwanis took in a lot of money as their lines were really long. The same goes for our MCB dessert tent.
Unfortunately, around 1:30 p.m. or so we ran out of pies, cakes, etc. and could only serve ice cream. Yes, Jane Kiser’s famous cherry pies went quickly. She had made 10 pies.

Dan and Lorna Dauw enjoyed taking donations at the "Maple City Band Dessert Tent" on the 4th of July event in the Geneseo Park.    Photo Submitted

The Geneseo Maple City Band, under the direction of Alan Kiser, and over 80 musicians, did an “awesome” job playing great patriotic music from 1 to 3 p.m. I always like it when the band plays the “Armed Forces Salute.” It’s nice when the last song played is the “The Stars & Stripes Forever” and the audience stands up and claps their hands.
I must not forget, at “halftime” Alan presented a nice award plaque to John Bean for his many years of playing his trumpet in the band. I’m sure I won’t see it, but I don’t think it will be too many more years until they reach 100 musicians. Of course, where they will all sit is another story!

In ending, a giant “THANK YOU” to all those many volunteers who made the “Fourth of July” event so successful.

Reminder Concert Fans

There are three more concerts in the park. They are: MCB on Tuesday, July 16th. The Big River Brass Band, Tuesday, July 23rd, and the Geneseo Big Band, Tuesday, July 30th. Also, there will desserts and ice cream served at the pavilion. Yay!!!!

Vintage Farm Equipment Show

It’s a few months away, but mark your calendar of this show in Atkinson on Saturday, September 14, 2024. It’s free to the public and lots to see.
It has easy access to the grounds, food & modern restrooms. From 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. I will present a program on Military Cutlery. I should also mention that Atkinson Heritage Days are Sept 12th – Sept 15th. Fun for the whole family.

Humor of Lance & Dan D.

1. What do you call a pig that does karate? Ans: A pork chop.

2. Why did the bike fall over? Ans: It was too tired!

3. Why did Geneseo golfer, Bob Sellman, bring two pairs of pants? Ans: In case he got a hole in one.

4. What has four wheels and flies? Ans: A garbage truck.

5. To keep in good shape, Vern Mariman does twenty jumping jacks every morning. Well, for half of those he just claps!

6. Todd Sieben also tries to stay in shape. He doesn’t care for a treadmill. He said his pillow keeps getting stuck in the conveyor belt.

7. Linda Vanderleest was involved in a nine-car pileup. It’s not as bad as it sounds. It was at four different intersections.

Quote of the Week

“Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice; it is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved.”
- William Jennings Bryan

Foster children, parents and volunteers of "Foster Hope" enjoyed the day kayaking, fishing, etc. at the "Ikes Park."  Photo Submitted

Lola Rahn, Director (front, center right), is with a few of the children and volunteers. The Geneseo Izaak Walton League volunteers also helped with the kids fishing.  Submitted Photo