Deer In The Headlights - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

“Sell the Team, 6 to 3!”

Our son, Lance, Lorna and I watched the Seahawks vs. Bears game last Thursday. It got to be just hilarious the way ‘da Bears played so horrible. QB Williams was definitely like a “deer in the headlights.”
We wondered if before the game their offensive line stayed in the locker room and switched uniforms with one of the local high school teams?
I’ve seen a zillion Bears’ games both at Soldier Field and on TV and this one had to be in their top 5 worse games ever. Now that’s saying something!
At the end of the game the rain-soaked fans were chanting, “Sell the Team, Sell the Team, etc.” Six to three was the final score. The last game of the season will be at Green Bay so again it’s time to bring out the over-the-head paper sacks like at the Seattle game. “Go, Bears!” Ugh!!

Happy New Year 2025

What will it bring? Last year seemed to be a mess. No matter how we voted it should be quite a ride, good ‘n bad.
Healthwise, Lorna and I held our own although it sure could have been better for Lorna. Still, we know lots of folks where it has been really rough going. God help them!

Sports

Wow! The two bowl games with Nebraska and Iowa State in participation were really good games.
Sunday’s women basketball game between Virginia and Notre Dame was fun to watch (that is, if ‘yer a ND fan). It is really fun to watch those ND gals play up ‘n down the hardboards. When they get Maddy Westbeld back in the starting five, look out!

When I wasn’t Old

I don’t know exactly why, but I can remember as a kid growing up I wanted to join the French Foreign Legion. I think it might have been from seeing some movie. What brought it to mind recently was I saw on the web a 2024 military parade in Paris. It showed marching Legionnaire Engineers in the front of the parade. They had leather aprons on and each soldier carried an axe. Their marching was slow and interesting.
Behind the Engineers marched the French Army. If you type on the web, “French Foreign Legion Parade, 2024” you will see photos of the event. With a little more exploring you can see the actual video of the parade. Unusual and very cool.
I remember growing up in the late 40s, early ‘50s I wanted to be a cowboy, priest and a knight (I remember I made a wooden sword and some sort of cape).
Me and my friends had fun playing cowboys and Indians. We all liked Roy Rogers because he used real bullets.
One more thing: Remember the full size polar bear in the lobby of the former Holiday Inn in Moline? I wonder what ever happened to the stuffed bear?

Christmas Day

Probably like some of you folks traveling, we took I-80 East to visit our daughter’s family for Christmas. (Yay! Hardly a semi in sight). Christmas evening we went to New Lenox to visit our son-in-law’s family, Mike and Sheryl Nommensen Family. Geez, what a feast did they have! Unbelievable!!!!
Our son, Lance, who lives in St. Louis, visited us for a few days after Christmas. I mentioned to our kids that from here on I might not live to see anymore Christmases and that I love them. I’m glad I did that.
We did make it to Church services at St. John Vianney Church as honoring the Christ child is important to us. Lorna’s sister played the hand bells at church and that was nice.
Most unusual Christmas gift received? A battery powered bird feeder that takes photos when a bird lands on the perch.

Humor

1. What do you get when you cross a Lassie with a rose?

   Ans: A collie flower.

2. Where can you leave your dog while you shop?

   Ans: A barking lot.

3. What did the mother buffalo say to her son before he left?
   Ans: “Bison!”

4. Why did the farmer give the horse a hammer at bedtime?

   Ans: So the horse would hit the hay.

5) Where do baby calves go for lunch? Ans: The calf-eteria.

Quote of the Week

“Fear is a feeling that is stronger than love.”

• Pliny the Younger

Why Judge, Just Enjoy!!! - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

When I wasn’t Old

All families have some “not-so-ordinary” relatives. Here are two brother and sister who went different ways. One for the good, one not so good. Even though the following events happened a long time ago, I best not get into my cousins’ names. I had a lot of cousins on my father’s side of the family.
I’ll put the good first. My oldest cousin was a very bright fellow. He graduated from Notre Dame with a PhD. He had three sisters. The oldest, “MJ,” also very bright, graduated from St. Mary’s University/Notre Dame. She became an author of mystery books and spent a good amount of time in San Juan, PR. She was very successful until an unknown disease took her life. I have one of her books, Remember March. I didn’t like the book, but to each his own.
I have a second cousin, Anny Dauw, who lives in Belgium and has all of MJ’s books. They had become friends, way-back-when. In short, MJ was very bright, a successful author and a fun gal.

Now for the “not-so-good” side of the same family. MJ’s brother, “DD,” got caught up in a big scandal in Chicago involving fake sexual problems on various nationwide TV talk shows. I won’t list the shows, but you would have heard of all of them. Anyway, DD and two others served time in Joliet prison. Sad, really. After serving time, he moved to Florida and I’m sure he was successful whatever his endeavor.

Christmas Walk

It was a nicer Saturday on the 21st for the annual Geneseo Christmas Walk. There might have been a little less folks in attendance, but still there were lots of locals and out of towners.
We again had our Civil War campfire and lots of visitors warmed themselves by the fire. Lorna and I really enjoyed talking with all the nice people. Zack Sullivan and his volunteers did an awesome job with the event. Considering the bad weather the Saturday before it caused some tweaking and the parade was stationary. Zack, Santa Claus and the crowd gave the countdown for the lighting of the new tree.
A special “thank you” to the police for their traffic control. I talked to three of the officers who were very nice and the handcuffs didn’t hardly hurt as I went to jail.
Seriously, we thought the event was really nice and all the many volunteers helped to make it a very nice evening.

Christmas Cards

Each year we mail fewer cards only because some friends and relatives are no longer with us. I’m sure Lorna and I will someday be scratched off some folk’s Christmas card list.
As I’m in the 80s group, I’m pushing the envelope on longevity so wherever my soul shall go I hope I won’t need an air conditioner!!!
We do enjoy reading Christmas letters other than just a signature. Don’t get me wrong, every card is very much appreciated, but it is nice to read about their 2024 happenings.
We received three homemade cards which are really cool. One card even contained an ornament.
Our kids and five grandkids we will see during the Christmas holidays. For New Years eve we and two others have to honor the event at The Cellar. Gotta love that place! Maybe we’ll get Cindy as our server, but they’re all good.

Humor

1. What kind of nuts always seem to have a cold?
   Ans: Cashews.

2. What kind of coffee was served on the Titanic?
   Ans: Sank-a.

3. What do you call a sad fruit?
   Ans: A blueberry.

4. What do you call cheese that isn’t yours?
   Ans: Nacho cheese.

5. How do you make a walnut laugh?
   Ans: Crack it up!

‘da Bears

Just two more games after the Lions. It’s been a long season. Yuk!!

Quote of the Week

“I don’t wait for moods. You accomplish nothing if you do that. Your mind must know it has got to get down to work.”

• Pearl Buck

One More Thing

I like driving on Wolf Road at night to see all the outside Christmas lighting by many folks. In our court we all, save one, have such lighting. Geneseo has really beautiful outside Christmas displays both downtown and residential. The small hamlet of Green River has a large corner house that has neat displays. There are really so many awesome displays it is hard to judge the best, but then, why judge, just enjoy!!! Merry Christmas!

LST-325 - By Dan Dauw

When I wasn’t Old

Growing up I don’t ever remember us having a live Christmas tree. I do remember we had to put the branches into holes in the artificial pole stand. It was kind of a pain.
When we got married the boss said it was a real tree or no tree. Well, something like that! We’ve been getting our tree from the place in Colona near where the bridge goes over the Rock River. This year’s tree is smaller than past ones which is what we wanted. It cost $30.00.
Back then, I remember the only choice on lights were colored bulbs. When one light would burn out so the others would go out. You had to check all the bulbs before you found the bad one.
I remember some years ago Lorna and I brought home a tree and when it started warming up inside it smelled like a skunk. We got rid of it.
Being the only child it had its advantages at Christmas time. I got some really cool gifts. Some of my favorites from Santa were a balsa wood airplane, Gilbert Elector Set, a metal red IH tractor and a Caterpillar tractor that I cut my knee on.
As time went on some Christmases were a lot of hassle mixed with good times, too! In our court 5 of the 6 homes decorated the outside of their places. Usually, all 6 decorate their place, but for some reason one didn’t this Christmas. Hope they’re okay.
In our travels we like to see all the neat homes decorated at night. Beautiful downtown Geneseo is also a “must to see” place.

Notre Dame Ladies BB

Gees, are they something else. They did loose 2 games in a tournament on November 29-30, but their record as of this writing is 9-2. They won a big one against #2 UConn 79-68.
Are there any better guards on the floor than Hidalgo, Miles and Citron? I think not! Forward Maddy Westfeldt has been out with an injury, but when she gets back in the line-up, watch out! Go, Irish!

LST-325

Mark you Calander! One of a few WW2 ships still floating is the LST (Landing Ship, Tank) 325 docked in its homeport of Evansville, IN. It certainly is a ways away, but she will be dropping anchor on September 11-15, 2025, at either Muscatine or Burlington, IA. It is worth the trip to see this vintage WW2 ship. The tour price for adults 18 & over is $15.00.
In the past, she has visited Moline and Bettendorf. There were a lot of people boarding her, me included, while in the Quad Cities.

Christmas Walk vs. Mother Nature

It a wise move of Zack Sullivan, Chamber of Commerce, to cancel last Saturday’s Christmas Walk. We got there after driving on icy Rt. 6. We started to set-up our Civil War firepit, but it was just miserable and found out the event was cancelled.
Zack is right, there could have been a lot of accidents as the roads were dangerous. As of this writing, the event has been moved to Saturday, Dec 21st. Make sure to check for sure.

Illinois Flag

So, what is the problem with our current flag? It has served us pretty well since the state legislature adopted it back in 1915.
In my opinion, the dozen submitted flag designs look horrible. For example, one flag has an orange butterfly in the center, some others have a single star along with added background clutter. The current Illinois flag is also submitted.

Humor

1. What do you get if you cross a snowman and a vampire?

   Ans: Frostbite.

2. What did one tomato say to the other tomato during a race? Ans: “Ketchup!”

3. What do you call a peanut in a spacesuit? Ans: An astronut.

4. What do you give a sick lemon? Ans: Lemon aid.

5. Why do potatoes make good detectives? Ans: They keep their eyes peeled.

Quote of the Week

“He who eats the fruit should at least plant the seed.”
- Henry David Thoreau

Merry Christmas

Bad Apples - By Dan Dauw

When I Wasn’t Old

I had asthma growing up so when I was young my parents bought me an International Harvester (IH) window air air-conditioner. Way back when International Harvester made not just ag equipment, but refrigerators, window air-conditioners and other non-ag items. They even made IH vehicles called a “Scout.” They were right-or-left hand drive vehicles.
In the ‘60s I drove a right hand drive Scout for the USPS. Before that we use to drive 3-wheel Cushman vehicles. The early ones had canvas enclosures and the later ones were made of fiberglass. I liked the later ones to deliver mail in, but their heaters were junk in the winter. They were not good if you got hit by a car. One Moline carrier got hit by a car and fortunately, he survived with only a few pieces of fiberglass impeded in his body.
We had one top heavy postal vehicle that had the dumbest location for the accelerator pedal. It was mounted flat on the floor and to go forward you moved the accelerator with the “side” of your foot. It was really a pain especially in the winter with snow and ice. The heaters in those vehicles were poor, too! Fortunately, the postal service soon got rid of the stupid things.
Today it seems like there are other types of postal vehicles besides the older LLVs (Long Life Vehicle). I delivered mail during a lot of Christmases. Back then the letter size (Christmas cards) was high volume, but today I think the parcel business has helped to pick up some of the slack of letter mail. I noticed recently on the news that the USPS is still very much in the red. They have been in financial trouble for a long time.

‘Da Bears

Can they be any worse? Yes! They are really in a tail spin that’s for sure. The interim head coach, Brown, looked to me like a deer in the headlights. I can’t blame QB Williams too much. With a few exceptions, his supporting cast are fair, at best. There are just too many bad apples on that team. We’ll still watch ‘em and the fans will continue to pack them in at Soldier Field.

Geneseo Ikes Christmas Party

This nice event was held at the Ikes Lodge last Saturday. A big “Thank you” goes to Brian Herron, Larry Wieneke, Terry Travis and Vic Bianchetta for putting up all the decorations, cooking, etc. If I left out anyone, I am sorry.
There were 17 attendees and the Christmas dinner was excellent! Afterwards there was a trivia game and bingo. It was also nice that everyone donated can goods and non- perishable items for the Geneseo food pantry. We were sorry that more members and guests were not able to attend the festivities. It was a very nice evening.

Geneseo “Christmas Walk”

If you’re reading this on or before next Saturday, the 14th, make sure you visit downtown Geneseo to see all the beauty Christmas time has to offer. The parade is a big attraction, too. It starts around 5 p.m.
Warm your hands at our Civil War campfire just north of the museum. In fact, that is also a neat place to visit and warm yourself.
There are lots of things to see and enjoy so hopefully you can go to the Geneseo “Christmas Walk.”

Hanna Township Ends Recyclable

This is kind of a bummer. I saw a sign by the recyclable dipsy-dumpster off Wolf Road that they will no longer take recyclables starting December 30, 2024. It isn’t profitable to continue that service. Sad, but understandable.

Joke

Todd Sieben, Geneseo, cut his hand so he went to a medical facility. The doctor said to Todd, “Try this new bandage. You can swim, water-ski, snorkel, or scuba dive with the bandage on. Todd said to the doctor, “That’s great! I couldn’t do any of those things before I hurt myself!”

Illinois Gun Legislation

A big “Thank You” goes to Illinois State Representative, Tony McCombie, for her support of the 2nd Amendment. She is very good on keeping we citizens informed on all types of legislation, good or bad. Wish she would run for the Illinois governorship.

Food Humor

1. What kind of nuts always seem to have a cold? Ans: Cashews.

2. Why did the banana go to the doctor? Ans: Because it wasn’t peeling well.

3. What did the hungry computer eat? Ans: Chips.

4. What is a pretzel’s favorite dance? Ans: The Twist.

5. Why shouldn’t you tell a secret on a farm? Ans: Because potatoes have eyes & corn has ears.

Quote of the Week

“The heart has reasons that reason does not understand.”

• Jacques Benigne Bossuet

Gotcha, Girl! - By Dan Dauw

Foreign Students Enjoy Thanksgiving

Geneseo and neighboring towns, Moline, Colona, Port Byron, Cambridge, and Coal Valley, had volunteers to host foreign college students from the Chicago area.
The students arrived by bus in Geneseo from the International House on Wednesday, November 27 and returned to Chicago on December 1, 2024.
The International Thanksgiving Fellowship Program started in Paris, IL. Marcia and Arlyn Helke, Geneseo, became coordinators of the Geneseo International Thanksgiving Fellowship Program, for over 50 years ago. They have done a tremendous amount of work coordinating the program through the years. Of course, many thanks goes to the volunteers and host families for opening their homes during the Thanksgiving holiday season.
The Helkes also arrange foreign business persons to stay with local hosts. It is a separate program based in Washington, DC. To date, there has been 3,909 international guests from 173 countries. The foreign students learn much about American traditions plus seeing various places of interest in Geneseo and the Quad City area.
We took our two guests, Huey Ru Lee from Malaysia, and Vartika Sinah, India, to the family farm in Iowa for Thanksgiving. We also took them to Bishop Hill, IL, Henry County Historical Museum, P.L. Johnson’s restaurant and the Mississippi River in LeClaire.
On Saturday, Nov 30th, all guests and host families had a potluck dinner at St. Malachy’s Catholic Church. The food was “so” good!!
Lots of foreign dishes. Naturally, “Mr. Dufus” dropped his plate of food on the floor. Ugh!! For entertainment, we were fortune to have Geneseo’s Pam Edwards and Paxton Sherbeyn with a medley of folk songs. They were totally awesome! The program ended with the singing of the beautiful song, “Let There Be Peace On Earth.” I can never get through that song without some tears.
Almost forgot, thanks to Father Daniel Gifford for saying Grace and his blessing. Thanks to Dr. & Donna Bordwell for briefly hosting our guests on the last day as we had to attend our VanDeWalle Christmas Party at Walcot, IA. Lastly, we wish the best to our two guests during their stay with us.
Huey, we really enjoyed your time with us.
As to “Vartika,” oh well, one out of two is good!!! Gotcha, Girl!!!!
Seriously, thank you for the kind letter. The End!

Solar Smart Savings

Stark County School District saved $15,068 from April, 2023 to April, 2024, at its elementary school thanks to the bank of solar panels installed. They are also going to have a solar bus barn/electric bus project.
Next will be the expansion of solar panels to the high school campus for additional savings.

Geneseo Ikes Christmas Party

All members and guests of the Geneseo Izaak Walton Club are invited for their annual Christmas Party on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 5 p.m. It will be held at the Ikes Lodge.
The club will supply the main dish and please bring a dish to pass. New this year we are asking if you can, to bring a non-perishable food item for the Geneseo food pantry.
The spirit of Christmas can help those who may be having a tough go of it. For entertainment, there will be a fun trivia game and traveling bingo. Participants of bingo must bring a nice gift of about $15.00.
This is always a nice event so unhitch your horse and trot over to the Ikes Park this coming Saturday, Dec 7th.

Donate Red

Whether it’s in Geneseo, Cambridge, Moline or wherever, a kind thing to do is give blood. It is a busy time of the year, but if you can give about 45 minutes of your time, please donate blood. There is always a need for donated blood.

Humor

1. Lyn Paris wonders this, “Does a straw have one hole or two?

2. I didn’t get this at first, but the object of golf is to play the least amount of golf.

3. How can you tell when Santa Claus is on your roof? Ans: Your television reception is bad.

4. Why does Santa have a garden? Ans: Because he likes to hoe, hoe, hoe.

5. Why didn’t Isaac Newton dodge the apple? Ans: He didn’t understand the gravity of the situation.

Quote of the Week

“Never keep up with the Joneses. Drag them to your level. It’s cheaper.”

• Quentin Crisp

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