Pets and Cold Weather - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Pets need special care in cold weather, just as they do in hot weather. Winter weather and frigid temperatures have arrived, along with snow and ice and pet owners are advised to take special care of their domestic friends.

Kim Park, who serves on the Board of Directors of the Henry County Humane Society – Geneseo, shared some tips for keeping pets safe during cold weather, and she advises bringing pets indoors, but said if pets cannot be inside the home, “even a garage, shed or barn will provide some protection.”

“If the pet cannot be inside, provide an enclosure such as a dog or cat house,” she added. “In the absence of an enclosure, a storage tub turned on its side with a hole cut into the lid can be used.”

For bedding, Park recommended cedar chips or straw, and she said, “Do not use blankets or towels as if they get wet they will freeze. The shelter should be big enough for the animal to stand up and turn around, but small enough to retain the animal’s body heat…Make sure the opening of the enclosure is not facing into the wind and use caution when using heating devices so as not to cause a fire.”
It is also recommended that pets be given a little extra food during colder temperatures as the extra calories help the animal to better regulate their body temperature.

Park also cautioned about the danger of pets ingesting antifreeze due to the “sweet” taste of the chemical, and she said, ‘Clean up antifreeze spills immediately.”

In regard to salt and ice melt, Park explained that those are irritating to pets’ paws and bellies if ingested. “Keep walks very short, and when returning from walks, wipe the pet’s paws with a slightly damp towel to remove salt and snow, and then dry the paws. If pets will tolerate, it is best to use pet booties.”

She said pet owners should watch for signs of distress from the pet when outside, such as lifting paws or wanting to lay down so as not to stand on paws…”Shorter haired animals benefit from dog/cat coats or sweaters to help retain their body warmth,” she added.

“The Henry County Humane Society – Geneseo, is committed to helping the community, including educating and answering questions,” Park said. “If anyone has questions regarding how to care for their pet during weather extremes, please call us at 309-944-4868 and we will be happy to answer any questions and offer suggestions to keep your pet safe and happy.”

Kim Park, Board of Directors, Henry County Humane Society- Geneseo, shared this photo of “Rocket,” her six-year-old male Bernese Mountain/Poodle-mix dog, who seemed to enjoy playing in the falling snow…”Because of his Bernese
Mountain dog breed, he loves the snow, but these extreme cold temperatures are dangerous even for breeds that typically enjoy the colder weather,” Park said. Contributed Photo

Londen Fulks Gets Her Chance at Miss Illinois

In recent years Londen Fulks has sat in the audience of the Miss Illinois County Fair Queen pageant cheering on some of her closest friends, but this year she’ll have her chance to walk across the stage representing Henry County in hopes of being selected to reign as the 2024 State Fair Queen. 

Londen is the 19 year old daughter of Jason Fulks and Nicole Fulks and is from Atkinson.  She competed in the Henry County Pageant last June, winning the title just four years after she was named the 2019 Junior Miss Henry County. 

“It has been an absolute pleasure to represent a county that I love so dearly,” said Fulks. “I’ve learned a lot about my community, and I’ve made some incredible memories during my years as queen. I can’t wait to walk across the stage in Springfield and I hope to make everyone proud. “

Fulks will compete for the state title January 12-14 at the Crowne Plaza in Springfield. The state pageant is held in conjunction with the annual convention of county fairs, the Illinois Association of Agricultural Fairs (IAAF).

“I’ve been working primarily on interview and perfecting my speech,” said Fulks. “I have loved getting the chance to talk to past Henry County queens about their experiences at state and it’s made me that much more excited for this weekend. I can’t wait to make forever friends and memories.” 

Fulks is contestant number 20 of the 73 young women competing in this year’s pageant. Each contestant will have a four-minute interview with the panel of judges, and will also compete in evening gown, swimsuit, and speech categories. 

The top 16 finalists will be announced on Sunday, January 14. Each finalist will re-compete in the evening gown, swimsuit, and speech categories. They will also be judged on three pop questions. The new state queen will be chosen and crowned that evening. 

She is currently a freshman at Iowa State University majoring in animal science on a pre-veterinary track with a minor in ag communications. She plans to attend veterinary school and pursue a career as a production and small animal veterinarian. She is currently a member of the Pre-Veterinary Club, International Agriculture Club, and the Vet-Science Team. She has been on the high honor roll, received an award for the highest GPA in FFA, and was a recipient of the Geneseo High School Ag Alumni Scholarship.

Londen Fulks - Photo Submitted

Cowabunga, Baby! - By Dan Dauw

Happy New Year

We hope you have a nice 2024. For several years, we always go to The Cellar for dinner on New Year’s Eve. We being Lorna, myself, Lorna’s sister, Elneta, and a close friend, Sue. The Cellar’s food and service are excellent! It was nice to see waitress, “Cindy,” there, too. Here is a little tip I do for reservations.

Before you leave the restaurant, or even before, give the lady at the standup desk a note that reads, “THE CELLAR, RESERVATIONS FOR 4 ON NEW YEAR’S EVE, DECEMBER 31, 2024 AT 5 P.M. (Include your name and phone number). The lady will record it in her reservation book, and ‘yer good-to-go for your next New Year’s Eve visit. Of course, if you check-out here on earth within the year, you might give the place a courtesy call from heaven, assuming that’s where you’ll be! If it’s the other place, at least your steak will be well done!!

Fran Riley

It was a nice tribute that KWQC-TV recently did on Fran Riley. I go back a long way when he was with WHBF-TV and I was with the postal service. During Christmas time he and his photographer would show all the mail being sorted during the busy holiday season. He did a spot at our house one time, but I can’t remember what it was for? Maybe it was on our pet boa constrictor.

One time there was a sad time we needed to talked about. I won’t go into detail, but it just showed what a class guy Fran was. While he has since passed away, Fran Riley was a great guy.

Winter Blues

I really don’t have much news or information while I pound these keys. There are a ton of things to write about during the warmer months, but winter is always a challenge for me. As for sports on TV, there are some good basketball games to be played and ice-skating competition is enjoyable. You know from here on politics will be center court and I can just take so much of their b.s. Excuse my French! We’re not snowbirds and there is just so much ice fishing, TV, reading a good book and so on. Speaking of basketball, the other day I watched the game between UCLA and the Oregon Ducks. I think the Oregon basketball court is totally ugly (Sorry fan, Diane DeBruyckere.) It is supposed to look like fur trees surrounding the floor, but I think it looks so odd. Just my opinion!

Go, Lions

Making the playoffs was not in ‘da Bears DNA for this season. So, I hope the Lions can go all the way. They have had lousy teams for several years. They lost a heart braker to the Cowboys a couple of Saturdays ago. It’s time for the Lions. Advice to the coach: “Use running back, David Montgomery, MORE!” Sometimes he can carry 6 guys on his back and “still” make yardage. Wish the Bears still had him.

Speaking of which, I hope ‘da Bears keep QB Fields. Stop this insane search for a “JC” like QB that will take us to the promise land. No, Field’s is not perfect. None of the QBs, past ‘n present are? So, wise up-front office and keep the dude!!

Notre Dame Girls Basketball

Yeah, that December 31st Syracuse game was a tough lost for the Irish. They will meet again at South Bend on January 25th. Revenge is such sweet sorrow! “Go, Irish!”

Underground RR

Most of us know there was an underground railroad during the Civil War, but maybe little more than that. Angie Snook, Historian, will give a program on that sad, but important roll whites and blacks helped slaves from persecution in the south. The presentation will be held at the Geneseo Public Library on January 20, 2024, at 2 p.m. I know we plan on attending.

Black Atlantic Sailors

Two Saturdays ago I watched a very interesting program on the American History TV channel. Author Michael Schoeppner discussed about 20,000 black maritime workers who were imprisoned by officials in southern port cities between 1822 and 1857. Black sailors worked aboard ships, but when they dropped anchor in southern ports, blacks were taken off the ships and jailed. In one case, a high ransom had to be paid for the sailor’s return.

One time a captain of a ship told the crew they were headed to New York. For whatever reason, the captain changed course and headed to a southern port. The 16 black sailors figured it out where the ship was headed and mutinied. Before the Civil War, those (free) black sailors on U.S. Navy ships were not jailed in southern port cities. England was neutral and their black sailors were also not jailed. If you type in author Michael Schoeppner’s name you can watch his presentation.

Airplane Humor

Geneseo’s Tony Simon is a golfer and a pilot. So, he said over the intercom on a flight, “Since this is a long flight we recommend you do some sort of physical activity. Because of the glass windows, we do not recommend golf.”

A flight attendant said over the intercom, “Sorry for the bumpy ride. The pilot was just dodging some trees.” Flying very low over Green River the flight attendant told the passengers, “In the event of a water landing, please do not yell, “Cowabunga, baby!”

Better in Technicolor - By Dan Dauw

Concealed Carry License

For those of you newcomers who wish to obtain an Illinois Conceal Carry License, JW’s Shooting Parlor, 207 N. State St, Geneseo, IL, will be conducting classes on January 27-28, 2024. You will need to attend both classes from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. One of those days you will need to bring your handgun or maybe they can loan you one for the firing range. I took the classes almost 5 years ago and they were excellent.

The license is good for 5 years. For you individuals, like myself that need to reapply they will offer a one day, three hour refresher course. At this time, I don’t have the dates the refresher courses will be held, but you can always call them at 1-309-944-4174.

Hunting & Fishing Licenses

This is a reminder that the 2023 Iowa H & F licenses expire on Wednesday, January 10, 2024. The cost for a non-resident Iowa fishing license is $48.00. If you care to fish with 3 lines add $14.00 and if you wish to fish for trout add an additional $17.50. The Illinois 2023 resident fishing license will expire March 9, 2024. If you wish to trout fish you need a trout stamp. It is a small fee. Both Illinois and Iowa have excellent trout locations.

Follow the Yellow Brick Road

The iconic 1939 film, the Wizard of Oz premiered at a cinema in Green Bay, Wisconsin (Booo, Packers). The Hollywood premiere did not take place until 5 days later. It was first shown on television in 1956. Dorothy’s slippers were originally silver, but were changed to a ruby color because they would show up better in Technicolor. Somewhere Over The Rainbow was the last song written for the film. The Wicked Witch of the West, Margaret Hamilton, suffered burns to her face and hand during a scene using pyrotechnics. The sparks ignited the green powder used in her makeup.

Ice Fishing

More anglers fish in more moderate, warm temperatures rather than freezing their backside. However, if you dress warm, hot packs for the feet, a good warm winter coat with a hood, and of course, gloves, it’s not bad. An ice hut is nice, especially on windy days. It will be interesting to see what Mother Nature has in store for us during the next two months. She sure gave us some nice warm days for December. Between the three of us old anglers we caught some dandy fish. Ha! It’s doubtful she’ll dish out warm days for some time, but that’s were ice fishing can take up the slack!!

Carbon Cliff Bait & Tackle

It is open until September, 2024, which is good news for fishermen and hunters. It will be a sad day when it closes, but all good things must come to an end. The Pankeys’ have put a ton of hours into their business for many years including Jay’s parents and Jay’s wife, Deb.

Master of the Sea

I received a neat book from our son at Christmas. It’s entitled, “Guinness World Records 2024.” The book covers a host of information on different animals and humans. One animal I always find interesting is the octopus. One time myself and some fellow Navy buddies dropped anchor in Barcelona in 1963. Keeping with the old tradition of drunken sailors (not all sailors), we spent a fair amount of time in a local bar & restaurant. On the menu the restaurant served octopus. We all ordered a large size octopus, like you’d order a pizza.

It was nicely presented, but “yuk” for taste! An octopus does not have tentacles. It has “legs” and two arms which is used for hunting and swimming.

The octopus is a master of disguise. Not only that, but it can spew an ink like substance to confuse its enemies. It can release toxic chemicals that irritate its enemy’s eyes. They are also “boneless” and have a “beak” that they use to break up their food. Lastly, they have “jet propulsion” and can move up to 25 mph for short bursts.

Humor

A duck walks into a drugstore and asks for a tube of lipstick. The cashier says, “That will be $1.49,” and the duck replies, “Just put it on my bill.”

What do you say when someone throws a goose at a duck? “Duck, goose!”

Why was the bird arrested? He was robin!

Why did the chicken cross the road? Ans: “To get the New York Times, get it?”

“No, I get the Geneseo Current.com.”

Scooter’s Coffee Opens First Location in Geneseo, IL New Store to Celebrate with Grand Opening Event on January 12th

Geneseo, IL January 3, 2024 - Scooter’s Coffee, best known for its amazingly fast drive-thru, specialty coffee, and baked-from-scratch pastries, added a new location at 1000 S. Oakwood Ave. Geneseo, IL. To celebrate, the drive-thru location will be hosting a Grand Opening on Friday, January 12, 2024 where customers can buy one drink to get one free when they pay with the Scooter’s Coffee mobile app.

With the app, customers earn three “Smiles” for every dollar spent to collect toward free drinks for their loyalty. To scoot through faster, customers can also link a credit card to the app and select “Pay/Earn Smiles” from the home screen. Then, if they choose to tip, customers can select a custom amount or percentage prior to scanning their app.

To scoot through even faster, Mobile Order Ahead is also available. Ordering ahead allows customers to order their favorite drinks and food, pay ahead, and pick up quickly at the drive-thru window. The Scooter’s Coffee app is available for download on the App Store or Google Play.

The drive-thru location is owned and operated by Donald C. Peterson Jr. Jeremy Music, Kris Pickens, & Rob Bowers.

Scooter’s Coffee is a drive-thru franchise that has been serving world-class coffee for 25 years and has nearly 750 locations in 30 states across the nation. With commitments to build new stores in 30 states, the company plans to open many additional locations in 2024. Its signature drink is the Caramelicious, and the menu features an array of specialty espresso beverages, energy Infusions, hot and cold brewed coffee, fruit smoothies, baked-from-scratch pastries, and savory breakfast options.

Connect with Scooter’s Coffee via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter and share your favorite moments by tagging @scooterscoffee using the hashtag #BeAmazing.

About Scooter’s Coffee Founded in 1998 by Don and Linda Eckles in Bellevue, Nebraska, Scooter’s Coffee roasts only the finest coffee beans in the world at its headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska. In more than two decades of business, Scooter’s Coffee’s success is simple: stay committed to the original business principles and company’s four core values, which are Integrity, Love, Humility and Courage. The Scooter’s Coffee Brand Promise, often recited to franchisees, customers and employees is: “Amazing People, Amazing Drinks… Amazingly Fast!®” It represents the company’s business origins from 1998 and reflects a steady commitment to providing an unforgettable experience to loyal and new customers.

Scooter’s Coffee is at the dawn of a strategic growth phase in the Midwest and nationwide. The U.S. coffee market is an estimated $48 billion a year recession-resistant industry, and Scooter’s Coffee is striving to become the #1 drive-thru coffee franchise in the nation. Visit ownascooters.com to learn more about the benefits of owning a franchise of a well-established company.

For more information, visit scooterscoffee.com, facebook.com/scooterscoffee, ownascooters.com or call 877-494-7004.

Blood Drive Friday, Jan. 5, at Geneseo First Methodist Church

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

First Methodist Church of Geneseo is hosting a blood drive on Friday, Jan. 5, at the South Annex (back entrance of the church’s south campus) of the church. The drive will begin at 11 a.m. and continue until 4 p.m.

Donors are asked to make reservations by calling 1-800-733-2767 (1-800-RED Cross). Walk-ins will be accepted in as timely a manner as possible with appointments taking priority. Those planning to give blood will be asked to present their Red Cross ID card (or a valid driver’s license) and will be asked to read the list of medications that might exclude their donation from being used or do a “Rapid Pass” before their donation.

Before donating:

-1. Drink an extra 16 ounces of water, juice or non-alcoholic drink before donating, especially in warm weather.

-2. Eat a healthy meal; avoid fatty foods like fries, hamburgers, ice cream.

-3. Try to get a good night’s sleep.

-4. Check to see if any of the medications you are taking would prevent you from donating.

It’s also recommended that those planning to donate increase their vitamin C to their diet by eating fruits and leafy green vegetables, such as strawberries, tomatoes, spinach and Brussels sprouts.

Anyone with questions about donating, getting a Red Cross ID card or who would like more information, is asked to call 1-800-733-2767 (1-800-RED CROSS).

You are Charging Me $500? - By Dan Dauw

First Lutheran Church Choir

Zowie!! This Geneseo church certainly has an awesome choir. On Tuesday, December 19th, the Geneseo Kiwanis had their “Guest Night” held at the church. For their entertainment the church choir sang various Christmas songs. Their last song, “Silent Night,” was joined in by the 67 Kiwanis members and guests. It really was a magical evening.

No Gators

Todd Sieben was fishing off the coast of Florida when his boat overturned. He could swim, but he was afraid of alligators so he just held on to the boat. Spotting an old beachcomber on shore, Todd yelled out, “Are there any alligators around here?” The old guy answered, “Naw, they haven’t been around for years!” Now feeling safe, Todd started swimming to shore. About halfway there he asked the guy, “How did you get rid of the ‘gators?” “We didn’t do anything,” said the beachcomber. “The sharks got ‘em all!”

Poor Hamster

Angie Snook quickly took her pet hamster to the vet, but sadly the vet looked it over and pronounced it dead. She wanted a second opinion so the vet brought in his pet Labrador retriever. It sniffed the little hamster and it shook his head. The vet said, “Yeah, it’s dead!” All of sudden a cat jumps up on the table, nudges it with its paw, and looked up and shook its head. Finally, Angie is convinced her hamster is dead. She asked the vet how much she owed for his services? He said, “That will be $500.00.” Angie said, “You are charging me $500.00 just to tell me my hamster is dead?” “Well, said the vet, there’s my prognosis, lab report and “cat scan.”

Ice Fishing This Winter

Well, maybe, maybe not! With the warmer than usual December days let’s hope we can have safe ice. To be smart, any 4” or more of thick ice is playing it safe. The past few years the ice conditions were up ‘n down. If ‘yer not sure, before going out on the ice, drill a few holes to gauge the ice thickness. Last winter I found ice fishing to be “iffy!” Last year our Geneseo Izaak Walton Ice Fishing Contest had to be cancelled because of unsafe ice conditions.

Up Your Sleeve

We are not card players. Even when I was in the Navy, I didn’t participate. One time Lorna and I played a few hands with another couple while on a fishing trip in Canada. They finally gave up on us. Setting all that aside, here are some card facts. 1) Some card games enforce a so-called, “British Rule.” It stipulates that the queen outranks the king whenever the British monarch is female. I guess it doesn’t apply now. 2) The fastest time a full deck of cards has ever been dealt is 16.92 seconds. 3) The chance of being dealt a royal flush in a game of poker is roughly 650,000 to one.

Donated Jokes

I think I’ll donate these hilarious (?) elevator jokes to Mr. Don Morrison of North Carolina. For some fun, the next time you’re in a crowded elevator yell “Ding” at each floor. What did one elevator say to the other? Ans: I think I’m coming down with something! Did you hear about the man who fell down an elevator shaft? He’s taking steps to avoid them now.

My old Lionel electric trains still work after all these years.  I still enjoy playing with them. This photo was taken before Christmas to show our grandkids what I enjoyed with growing up. Ha! All five of them are in high school, but hopefully one of them will carry on the tradition of model railroading, especially at Christmas time.

Geneseo Local Punches her Ticket to Miss Illinois

On Saturday, December 16, 2023, Olivia Egert of Geneseo, Illinois was crowned Miss Peoria Metro 2024 at Illinois Central College Performing Arts Center, IL. Egert will represent the Peoria Metropolis area at the coveted Miss Illinois (a state preliminary to Miss America) competition in June. Egert is currently a sophomore at The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in the Division of General Studies.

Egert is a 2022 Summa Cum Laude graduate of Geneseo High School, holding presidency/leadership in her class, Key Club, Student Council and other service organizations. Becoming hands on with so many service organizations in high school, Olivia fell in love with the idea of leadership. In her high school career, Olivia founded her community service initiative “Project Next in Line: Building the Leader Within You.” In her platform, Olivia focuses on the pillars of student activism, student volunteerism and student leadership among her generation to develop strong and effective role models for the youth in our communities to look up to.

At 12 months old, Olivia was adopted from China by her parents, Ryan and Penny Egert. When Egert started her journey in the Miss Illinois’ Teen organization in 2019, she came to the decision to share her story for the competition’s Talent/HER Story judged portion. Her monologue shares intimate details about her adoption including awareness of China’s one child law that was present when she was born. The original piece morphs into an appreciation for freedom and her pride for being an American Citizen. Olivia’s HER Story, Proud to Be An American, has helped her earn over $2,500 in scholarships through the Miss America Opportunity. During her reign as Miss Peoria Metro, Egert hopes to impact her community through Project Next in Line and its complimentary pillars.

The 2024 Miss Illinois Competition Finals will take place June 12-14, 2024 at the Marion Cultural and Civic Center in Marion, IL. She plans on continuing her preparation by volunteering in her community and marketing herself amongst the state of Illinois.During the state competition, the delegates were scored in five categories - an individual interview with judges (30%), Lifestyle and Fitness (20%), Talent/HER Story (20%), Evening Gown (20%) and Onstage Question (10%).

For more information on the competition you can visit www.missamerica.org or www.missillinois.org. You may also request Olivia Egert, Miss Peoria Metro 2024 to appear at your event by contacting loveinvolumes@gmail.com or private messaging the Miss Peoria Metro Organization Facebook Page. Make sure to keep up with her journey to the Miss Illinois title on Instagram www.instagram.com/MissPeoriaMetro/.

Olivia Egert

If Dracula Plays Baseball - By Dan Dauw

Just for fun I think I will devote this column for trivia. I know most of you are not the smartest people or you wouldn’t be reading this column! However, I think you will find many of these facts interesting. If not, I’ll send you a refund check. Then again!!!

1. Earth: Receives approximately 100 tons of falling space dust every day.
2. Meow: According to the Wildlife Society, cats kill about 2.4 million birds a year.
3. Better vision? Some say it’s true if you eat carrots. I read that rumor started with the RAF in England during WW2. The Brits had better eyesight from eating Bugs Bunny favorite food.
4. Watch out Porky Pig: The average American will eat the equivalent of 28 pigs in their lifetime.
5. Flashlight’s (or “torch” if ‘yer across the pond) safer. A candle burns around 2,192 degrees.
6. Good eat’n, too: Between carp, sunfish, catfish and lake trout, the sunfish has the least amount of contaminates.
7. Same for Dracula? A vampire bat will die if it does not have a meal of blood within 2 or 3 days. I just wonder if Dracula plays baseball does he use a bat?
8. Vibrations: They travel faster and greater distances in water.
9. Skys the Limit: The computers aboard the Apollo spacecraft had less processing power than today’s Smart phone.
10. Civil War weapons: They were not quite as advanced as today, but during the CW the submarine, machine gun and hand grenade saw limited use. Floating mines back then were called, “Torpedoes.”
11. Served our Country: About 179,000 black soldiers served in the Union Army during the Civil War.
12. Civil War Items: Soldiers wore “brogans” (shoes). Some were made poorly and some not. There were no right or left shoes. They could be switched. The “kepi” (hat) was worn by CW soldiers and was patterned after the French. Soldiers carried a sewing kit which was called a “housewife.” When I was in the Navy in the ‘60s (1960s, not 1860s) we were issued a housewife. It was in a small blue packet containing needles and thread.
13. Navy Lingo: The vertical structure on a submarine is called a “Sail.” The vertical structure on an aircraft carrier is called an “Island.” A submarine is called a “boat.” A destroyer ship is called a “tin-can.”
14. Brave President: President Harry Truman fought in WW1. He was a Captain of an Artillery unit.
15. WW1: During that war, the French and English made most of all tanks. They were very slow and tended to break down. The German army did not use many tanks in WW1, but made up for it in WW2.
16. Turkeys: They can see color and like to roost in trees at night to be safe from predators like coyotes. I’m not so sure I buy into this, but it is said a turkey can fly as fast as 60 mph.
17. Animal Facts: Rhinos belong to the same family as horses. Cats have 4 rows of whiskers. An iguana can hold its breath for 28 minutes. Baby squirrels are called, “kittens.” Sheep snore! (wonder who stayed up at night to find that out?) A cow can be lead upstairs, but not downstairs. Probably best not to live in a two story dwelling with a cow. Just say’n!
18. Yum-yum: Flathead catfish prefer live bait, or at least “thinks” your lure is alive!
19. Next voyage: Here are a few nautical facts you can impress the Captain of the cruise ship. An “eel” is a German torpedo. A “long lance” is a Japanese torpedo, and an American torpedo is called a “fish.”
20. Remember the Maine: That was the war cry of sailors when the U.S. Navy ship, Maine, was sunk during the Spanish-American War. Sort of Like, “Remember the Alamo,” and “Remember Pearl Harbor.”

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Luke Jensen, son of David & Hannah Jansen, recently caught this beautiful rainbow trout by Bellevue, IA. His dad, a Moline fireman, is a big time fisherman and is one of us "Fisherman Four" who fish together in Canada. CONGRATULATIONS to Luke Jensen for a nice catch.

This is the second time this year I had to put Gary Dahlquist's photo in this column holding a big fish.  He, his brother, Tom, and myself gave it one more shot fishing on a nice day, December 15th.  The fish weighed                       4 lbs (3.8 to be exact).  We caught some nice crappies, too!

Regular Council Meeting: December 12th, 2023

Removing the Bloat

• Zack Sullivan, Executive Director of the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce gave a summary of the Christmas Walk held on December 9th. Estimated attendance was 10,000 people.

• City applied and received a grant for pickleball and disc golf upgrades in Richmond Hill Park. New fencing will be added into the pickleball courts to segregate each individual court and the disc golf course will receive new baskets for all 18 holes.

• Geneseo FFA chapter gave an annual presentation regarding plot lease renewal. Lease was renewed through 2025.

• The City Engineer (IMEG) held a public meeting on the North State Street Project. This project’s primary objective is to replace the 100+ year old water, sewer, and storm water infrastructure that lies under the North State Roadway (Exchange to Ogden). Phase #1 of the project is scheduled to begin late Spring 2024 and will run from Park to Wells Street down State. The project will also include new street, sidewalk, and decorative lighting along the right of way.

Community Christmas Day Dinner 2023 at First Lutheran in Geneseo – By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The congregation at First Lutheran Church in Geneseo practices hospitality by opening their doors and their hearts to anyone who wants to join them for dinner on Christmas Day.

The church, at 114 East Main St., Geneseo, will host a Community Christmas Day Dinner, with serving from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 25, in the Fellowship Room of the church. There is no charge for the meal and an offering will not be taken.

The Christmas dinner menu includes turkey, ham, potatoes, vegetables, salads, rolls, beverage and dessert.

Janet Larson, who with her husband Jim, are in charge of the annual dinner, said, “We serve nearly 150 people each year and we look for at least that many guests this year.”

In the first year for the Christmas dinner, 17 years ago, there were about 50 people served and Larson said, “We now are doing many more home deliveries. With the growth in attendance, we know we are meeting a need in the community.”

Committee members are able to deliver meals only in the Geneseo, Atkinson and Cambridge area, but people from anywhere are welcome to have dinner at the church, Larson said.

Arrangements for home delivery for those who are homebound can be made by calling the church office, 309-944-3196 or by calling Larson at 309-507-2997 by Dec. 23.

“Our church is centrally located and also is an ideal stop for people traveling on Christmas Day,” she added. “The Community Christmas Dinner is a time to celebrate Christmas with family and friends in our community and the gift of friendship is what holds a community together.”

The dinner is a tradition for the Larson couple who have been involved with it since its beginning. The couple, with the help of other church members, were instrumental in planning the first Community Christmas Day Dinner.

“My husband Jim and I have been involved in the dinner every year and our two sons Luke and Ian, and our children were always involved when they lived at home.”

“We want it to be a time of serving rather than concentrating on receiving and those are lessons we wanted for our children,” she said, adding that the theme of this year’s dinner is “Cheerfully Share,” taken from scripture 1 Peter 4: 9-10.

In addition to the Larson couple, others on this year’s committee include Betsy Brudos, Julie and Jeff Kunkel.

Larson said some of the same people have returned each year for the Christmas dinner at First Lutheran.

She said she believes the Community Christmas Day Dinner is something that is needed in the community and the surrounding area “because we are not aware of any other meals offered on Christmas Day. That day can be the loneliest day of the year. We want those people who would otherwise be alone to be a part of our church family on Christmas Day.”

“We pray that this meal will be enjoyed by our friends and neighbors who need to feel the love and hope that God provides.”

“Christ has called us to be in community with others, to tend to the needs of our neighbors,” she said. “Our mission at First Lutheran challenges us all to share Christ’s love to all. One of the most exciting opportunities is to serve our community on Christmas Day by providing a hot meal and fellowship for those who are alone or are in need.”

“By sharing our blessings, we too are blessed,” she said.

CHRISTMAS SERVICES AT FIRST LUTHERAN

Christmas Eve Candlelight, Carols & Communion services are at 4 and 7 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 24.

Christmas Day services – Monday, Dec. 25 – 10 a.m., Carols and Communion.

Janet Larson extends an invitation to the Community Christmas Day Dinner on Monday, Dec. 25, at First Lutheran Church, Geneseo. The event is offered at no charge and deliveries are made to homebound residents in the local area. Photo by Claudia Loucks

It’s Always Something Isn’t It? - By Dan Dauw

Cops

I like to watch the various police shows on TV. One thing the police seem to ask after they list the offense(s) to the crook is the officer will say, “Okay?” I’m still waiting for some bad guy to answer, “Heck no, it’s NOT okay!”

Springfield Armory, Inc.

As most know, this company is no longer at their old location (W. Main St.). Every once in awhile I hear that their old location may become a military museum. I, for one, think that would be awesome.

Above Ceiling, Now Floor Ceiling

I have a small room which I call the “Military Room.” Some years ago a neighbor and I put a suspended ceiling in the room. The other day I opened the door and found the ceiling had caved in landing on the floor. Through the years I stored items in the suspended ceiling. Stupid, yes! At my age I can’t do the repair work. I heard there is a fellow named, “Gavrin J.” but his phone is disconnected. I might have his first name spelled wrong. It’s always something isn’t it?

Two Nice Days

I had all my fishing gear, except for ice fishing, stowed away for the winter. Who would have thought we’d have two warm December days in a row. So, Gary Dahlquist, Geneseo, called me to see if I wanted to go fishing on a private lake. We fished on those two warm days, the 7th and 8th. I didn’t think we’d do very good, but gosh, we caught a lot of bass and crappies. Glad I was wrong! They were not slab crappies (12” or more), but very decent size. Those were my two best days of fishing in 2023. The question now is, do we try to sneak one more day of fishing in much colder temps? Yes, is the answer. Sometime this week. I fished mostly using minnows and Gary used some lures, waxies, nibblets and minnows. I think we could have thrown in the kitchen sink and they still would be caught!

Bargain Ice Fishing Hut

If you are looking for an almost (used once) new 4 man Frabil ice fishing hut, Chris Weisser, Geneseo, has one for sale. Frabil makes excellent ice fishing products. Chris sent me some photos of the hut and it looks in great condition. His phone number is: 309-944-1230.

Go, Cyclones!

A great men’s basketball game a few weeks ago between the Hawkeyes and and the Iowa State “Cyclones!” The final score was 90 to 65. They are still undefeated as of this writing. The Hawkeyes still hold more wins in the state rivalry. And how ‘bout those Bears beating the Lions? Their next opponents are the Browns, Cardinals, Falcons and ending the season with the Packers.

Where Ought Thou Farm Bill?

The 2023 farm bill will be enacted later than intended. Progress within the Senate and House agriculture committees was stalled by disagreements over raising reference prices, an expensive step, and arguments whether to divert some of the bonus $20 billion that was earmarked for USDA conservation programs in the 2022 climate law. The consequences of action are high.

Geneseo Christmas Walk

Once again, this popular event was great last Saturday. Our Civil War campfire had lots of folks warming themselves and learning about the Civil War. I always like to talk to the visitors and was surprised so many were from Rock Island and Davenport. The parade and lighting of the Christmas tree was neat. Hopefully the downtown merchants did well, too.

Humor

What do you get when you cross a pig with a parrot? Ans: A bird that hogs the conversation.

What animal has more lives than a cat? Ans: A frog.

What do you get when you cross Lassie with a rose? Ans: A collie flower.