Geneseo Community Choir Schedules Annual Concert and Invites Singers

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Community Choir of Geneseo will celebrate their 16th annual concert this summer with a theme of “Does It Matter?” The performance is at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 26, in the Geneseo High School Concert Hall.

The Community Choir is open to those entering eighth grade and older adults. Rehearsals are held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Wednesdays, beginning May 29 and continuing through June 19 in the Geneseo High School Concert Hall.

Repertoire includes: “Do You Hear the People Sing?” “Memory,” and “Bridge Over Troubled Waters.”

Anyone interested in singing with the group is asked to contact Pam Edwards, director, at 309-944-6641 or email singplay53@gmail.com by May 3.

Youth entering grades 4-7 are invited to sing in the Children’s Choir which rehearses on June 20, 21, 24, 25 and 26, and will perform with the Community Choir on June 26.

Registration forms are available from Geneseo elementary and middle school choir instructors or by contacting Pam Edwards. The deadline to register is May 3. Repertoire includes: “Play For Me a Simple Melody,” and a “Mary Poppins Medley.”

Combined choirs will sing “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee,” “Sing, Sing, Sing,” “Earth Song,” and “God Bless the USA.”

News from the Geneseo-Atkinson Food Pantry - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Geneseo-Atkinson Food Pantry is much more than a place to distribute food and clothing. The Pantry also offers ongoing classes and events for area residents.

The Matthew 25 Center, named after Biblical scripture, Matthew 25 is the area at the Pantry where instructional classes are held.

The Food Pantry can also receive funds through Birdies for Charity and those funds are used to continue providing resources for those in need.

-Dietitians Class – Hammond Henry Hospital dietitians to provide a free monthly class at the Geneseo-Atkinson Food Pantry. The class is open to the public with the next class at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, April 9. For more information, call 309-944-3165.

-Lunch and Learn – Freedom House will provide a free “Lunch and Learn” about domestic violence survivor resources at the Food Pantry. Information will be available about state and federal programs available to domestic violence survivors. The event is from 12 noon to 1 p.m. on Friday, May 10, at the Food Pantry. It is open to the public and to register email mdevoss@freedomhouseillinois.com.

-Birdies for Charity – Donations to the Geneseo-Atkinson Food Pantry are maximized through Birdies for Charity. The Food Pantry will receive 100 percent of the donation and will be guaranteed an additional bonus promise of at least 5 %. A donation to the Bonus Fund will help Birdies for Charity provide the bonus promise to all participating charities. By including the Bonus Fund in your donation means your contribution has twice the impact. Guess the correct number of birdies that will be made at the John Deere Classic (in July) and win a two-year lease on a Lexus. Checks must be made out to Quad Cities Golf Classic Charitable Foundation /Birdies for Charity. Pledge forms can be requested at the Food Pantry, 309-944-3165, and donations also may be made at https://birdiesforcharity.com/donate?charity=2406.

Henry & Stark County Health Departments Kick Off National Public Health Week, April 1-7, 2024 Celebration!

Raeann Tucker
Director of Health Promotion
March 29, 2024

Each year officials at the Henry and Stark County Health Departments have showcased the many services they provide to protect the health of our communities as a part of National Public Health Week.  This year National Public Health Week will take place from April 1-7, 2024.  During National Public Health Week (NPHW) 2024, the public health community is rallying around a theme of “Protecting, Connecting and Thriving: We Are All Public Health.” 

     Duane Stevens, Public Health Administrator of the Henry and Stark County Health Departments notes, “This year’s theme, “Protecting, Connecting and Thriving: We Are All Public Health,” recognizes the contributions of public health initiatives, workers and milestones, and highlights issues that are important to improving both our nation and our local communities. This week also notes that the places where we are, physically, mentally and societally affect our health and our lives.  As we celebrate the 29th NPHW, we want everyone to know they can make their communities healthier and safer for all.  And we’re focusing not just on what we can do as individuals, but what we can do as communities to protect and improve public health.”

     Stevens adds, “Join us in observing NPHW 2024 and become part of a growing movement to create the healthiest nation in one generation.  During the week, we will celebrate the power of prevention, advocate for healthy and fair policies, share strategies for improving both the physical and mental health of our residents, and champion the role of a strong public health system.”

     Stevens concludes, “People often do not realize the full impact of the Health Department’s programs and services.  This Public Health Week please take a moment to remember how the Health Department is continuously striving to create healthier communities. Our staff of 50 full-time employees are dedicated to making a difference in the health of 60,000 area residents each and every day. And though the last three years may have tested and challenged our staff; rest assured our vigilance and resolve never ends.”

     For more information on the programs and services available through the Henry & Stark County Health Departments in Kewanee 309-852-0197 (Main Office); Colona 309-792-4011; or Toulon 309-852-3115 or visit our website at www.henrystarkhealth.com or find us on Facebook at Henry and Stark County Health Departments and Follow Us on Twitter and Instagram.

The Staff of the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare gather in front of their Kewanee location and invite all Henry and Stark County residents to join them in celebrating National Public Health Week, April 1-7, 2024. The Health Department is showcasing their many accomplishments in improving our area citizens' health as a part of this year's observance and its theme, “Protecting, Connecting and Thriving: We Are All Public Health.”

Wear Running Shoes to Walmart! - By Dan Dauw

Guest Night

Every few months the Geneseo Kiwanis members have a meeting/dinner for spouses or friends. Lorna and I always try to attend. We never have a problem getting seats as no one seems to sit at our table. Anyway, the “Guest Night” was last Tuesday. The food was excellent and the GHS Jazz Band was the entertainment. They were good, really good! At the end of the band’s performance, Linda Vanderleest did a nice gesture and challenged everyone to chip in a sawbuck for scholarships to the students attending band camp this summer. Oh, my gosh! Did I just compliment Linda? I so need help!!

Steve and Jan Weber

There were no other seats available for Kiwanis “Guest Night” so Mr. & Mrs. Steve Weber and Mr. & Mrs. Roger Bengtson sat at our table. In our conversations, Steve wondered if many read my column? I said I honestly don’t know and that does bother me. Jan Weber pulled out her iphone and showed me seven “likes” on my previous column. I’m just not real savvy with somethings on the iphone, computer, etc. Both Jan and Steve gave me some good advice on how to increase readers. It can be a bit of a challenge each week to come up with interesting things. I try to add topics of humor, fishing, sports, history, coming events, gardening, birds and some odds ‘n ends. If possible, I attempt to stay away from religion and politics. So, am I on the right track or wrong train??? Hit “Likes”or your thoughts at: deboonelr@aol.com

Postage Stamps

Buy them from the USPS and NOT from some phony businesses that advertise low discounts on stamps. They look real, but they are not!

Trout Saturday

Reminder, this coming Saturday, April 6, 2024, is the opening day of the Illinois Trout Season. Here are some of the nearest trout fishing locations: Prospect Park Lagoon, Moline; Hennepin Canal Parkway, Sheffield; and Centennial Park, Rock Falls. The limit is 5 trout per person. The Sheffield location begins at 6 a.m. and the other places start at 5 a.m. Make sure you have both the 2024/25 fishing and trout licenses. By the way, the 2023/24 fishing license expired March 31, 2024. My favorite baits for trout are minnows or lures. If minnows, make sure they are alive and hook the minnow just behind its dorsal fin. Small bobber, split shot and a short-shank #6 hook and ‘yer in business.

Spring Swap Meet

The QC In-Fisherman Club will host their” Spring Swap Meet” on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at the QCCA Expo Center, 2621 4th Ave., Rock Island. The hours are from 8:00 a.m. to Noon. Free admission. So, if you have some fishing, camping and/or hunting items you may be able to buy, sell or trade those type items. No firearms or live ammo allowed. Biscuits & gravy will be available. Let’s just hope my neighbor, Jim Putnam, isn’t doing the cooking! Donations welcome!

Fishy Poem

Roses are red,

Violets are blue,

Fishing is fun,

For me and you;

Trout taste good,

Whether day or night;

Minnows or lures,

I know they’ll bite;

Kathy Mattea

In my opinion, no one sings the old Civil War ballad, The Vacant Chair, better than singer & song writer, Kathy Mattea. So, last week I sent her a letter telling how much I enjoyed her singing and especially her performance of The Vacant Chair. No, I do not expect to hear back from her and that’s understandable. The ballad tells of a CW soldier who never comes back from the war. He will never again sit in his chair for the family dinner. Sadly, as wars continue to this day, I’m sure there are many “vacant chairs” around the dining tables.

NCAA Tournament

Two of my favorite teams, Iowa State (M), and Notre Dame (W) went down in flames last Thursday & Friday. My other favorite is Illinois (M) who beat Iowa State. I had Illinois winning in my bracket until they meet with UConn. I think South Carolina women’s team will win the women’s tournament although I’d rather see UConn take the top spot.

Senior Humor

Ladies, want to seem younger? Try these 3 tips. 1) Wear running shoes to Walmart. 2) Wear a warm-up suit when grocery shopping. 3) Keep a tennis racquet somewhere in your car so it can be seen.

Lorna and I used to see fiber in our carpets. Now we find it in our cereal bowl. Golfers: They say swimming is good for us. But once I find my golf ball, I’m ready to call it a day.

Quote of the Week

Whenever the press quits abusing me, I know I’m in the wrong pew. - Harry S. Truman

Remembering the Pigs on Parade in Geneseo - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Remember when the life-size pig statues made their debut in a parade held in Geneseo in July of 2006, and remained on the scene in front of or inside of local businesses?

The Pigs on Parade was held in July of 2006 in Geneseo and each pig entered the parade on a hayrack….But where are those pig statues now?

The pig project was sponsored by the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce in an effort to draw customers to Geneseo businesses. Several area businesses each sponsored a pig statue, which was decorated to reflect the business by local artists. The pig statues were coated with a clear sealant to protect them from the elements and were on display near their sponsoring businesses until, not sure when, but what we do know is they disappeared, and some have reappeared.

The statue that once greeted people entering the Geneseo Republic office on West First St., is now located inside the offices of Geneseo Current and Dalcon Todd Productions.

DeMaranville said his nine-year-old daughter Anna, has named the pig “Liberty.”

Some residents and some visitors to Geneseo have inquired as to where the pigs have gone?

Even though it isn’t certain as to where the pigs have gone, several people have mentioned that they are in hopes many of the pig statues will reappear this spring and summer.

Katie Kutsunis of Four Seasons and Pegasus was instrumental in bringing the pig project to Geneseo and she served as chairman of the Chamber of Commerce committee organizing the pig sculptures.

The pigs were made of fiberglass so they were often out in the summer and stored in the winter.

Kutsunis said the idea had been seen by her father, George Kutsunis, and his friend, Jerry Deutsch, in another community and they shared with her that it would be fun to create that sense of community in Geneseo.

Business owners were able to purchase a “naked” pig statue and have it decorated to promote their business. Many of the themes of the pig statues were designed by members of the Geneseo Art League.

“We wanted to pick an animal that represented our agricultural environment and we thought a pig statue was a fun way to have a blank canvas for the project,” she said. “At one point, we had a pig passport and people would take a pix of themselves with the pig and if they completed the passport, and had pictures of themselves with all 11 pigs, they were entered to win into a contest to win a Chamber Gift Certificate.”

She said the pigs, which were attached to concrete bases, were on display inside area businesses and outside of the businesses for eight to 10 years.

“They are very lightweight and can easily be moved,” Kutsunis added.

There were 11 pigs introduced at the Pigs on Parade in 2006:

-DHCU Community Credit Union, 1090 South Congress; Artist Mike Schmalz and the sculpture name “ImaMemBoar.”

-Geneseo Republic, 108 West First St., Artist Pauline Swanson and the sculpture name “I.M. Read.”

-Geneseo Chamber of Commerce with sculpture placed in front of Geneseo Art League at 113 North State St., Artist Kathy Williams and the sculpture name “Leaf It Up!”

-Lavender Crest Winery, 5401 US HWY 6; Artist Barb Walters and the sculpture name “D’Vine Swine.”

-All In Stitches, now Mango Merch + All In Stitches, 100 E. Main St.; Artist Jason Dahl and the sculpture name “Pig In Stitches.”

-FORMER Roy’s Taco House, 732 N. College, Hwy. 82 North; Artist Ct White and the sculpture’s name “Roy’s Taco The Town Pig.”

-Crippen Reid & Bowen LLC, 810 South Chicago St.; Artist Kris Love and the sculpture name “Mr. Pig, CPA.”

-Lifetime Eyecare, 112 South Center St.; Artist LeAnn Wildermuth and the sculpture name “Iris “Check yearly, pig sees clearly.”

-Wells Fargo Bank, IL NA, 121 West First St.; Artist Paul Terpening and the sculpture name “Penny Pig.”

-Four Seasons, At the Crosswalk in downtown Geneseo; Artist Lisa Mahar and the sculpture name “Fashion Faux Pig.”

-The Cellar, 137 S. State St.; Artist Sheilah Wigant McGee and the sculpture name “Pork Chop.”

Katie Kutsunis, president of Four Seasons and Pegasus, stands by “Fashion Faux Pig,” which at one time stood at the crosswalk in downtown Geneseo. Photo by Claudia Loucks

Dalcon DeMaranville, video producer and news editor of Geneseo Current and Dalcon Todd Productions, is shown by the pig statue that once stood in front of the former Geneseo Republic office on West First St., and is now at home in the Geneseo Current offices. Photo by Claudia Loucks

Henry & Stark County Health Departments Offer Easter Egg Food Safety Suggestions

Raeann Tucker
Director of Health Promotion
March 27, 2024

The Henry and Stark County Health Departments recognize that many groups, organizations, and families may be planning festivities to celebrate the upcoming Easter holiday.  Those planning Easter egg hunt should be aware that hard-boiled eggs require some special attention.

     In years past, various instances of food borne illnesses have been associated with the consumption of improperly prepared Easter eggs; therefore, we recommend the following guidelines to help insure a safe and enjoyable holiday.

      * Use only fresh, clean, unbroken eggs that have been obtained from a reliable source and kept refrigerated. 

      * Eggs should be prepared by healthy persons who observe good hygienic practices such as frequent hand washing and proper cleaning of cooking utensils.

      * Eggs should not be allowed to cool in standing water.  They should be placed into the refrigerator immediately after cooking.

      * Hard-boiled eggs must remain refrigerated after preparation and coloring, and used within seven days.

      * It's safe to keep the eggs outside for an hour or two during an Easter egg hunt, but any eggs that are not consumed right away must be returned to the refrigerator.  Also, hide eggs so they stay clear of pets, dirt and other sources of bacteria.  To be extra cautious, cook two sets of eggs: one for hiding and decorating with, and another for eating.

     * Remember, hard-boiled eggs-in the shell or peeled-do not keep as well as raw eggs, so discard any leftover eggs after one week.

     Whether preparing, serving, hunting or decorating with eggs, it's easy for everyone to have a splendid Easter celebration while still staying safe from any "food borne unpleasantness."

Geneseo City Council - Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Geneseo City Council
Committee of the Whole Meeting
Tuesday, March 26, 2024 – 6:00 pm

Removing the Bloat

• Mayor Johnson proclaims the City will observe Junior Achievement Day on April 4, 2024
• Hydrant Flushing is April 1st – April 5th. 2024
• City burn pile opens Friday, April 5th. 2024
• Curbside Cleanup is May 6th – May 9th, 2024
• The City passed a motion to review a proposed purchase power agreement and revenue sharing agreement with RSS for a proposed solar project.

Hey, Wait a Minute! - By Dan Dauw

Todd Sieben

Most of us know Todd as a former Illinois politician and a nice guy. He still likes to help out when he sees a wrong that should be a right. Once in a while his mind does slip a tad. Case in point. When he was in politics, some years ago, he visited a remote village in Henry County. Todd asked the mayor what his two biggest needs were for his little town? The mayor said, “First, we have no doctor.” Todd took out his cell phone, made a call, and told the mayor, it’s all taken care of, a doctor will be here tomorrow. What is your other need? The mayor said, “We have no cellphone reception in our village.”

Andrew Sigwalt

If you know Andrew, you know he is quite the fisherman. Last week he was walking along the canal carrying two small bass. Just then, Jamie Posateri, Game Warden, stopped Andrew to see his fishing license. He said he didn’t have one because the fish are his pets. Andrew said, “Once in a while I take my two pets and let them swim around.” When they’re done swimming I whistle at them and they come back to me. Jamie did not buy a word of it and told Andrew to whistle the fish back. Andrew said, “What fish?”

Claire Crawford

Claire Crawford, Library Director, said when she found a book I was looking for, “I booked it for you!” She also said a lot of math books become sad at the library. Why I asked? Because they just have too many problems. One book wasn’t feeling good so it went to the Geneseo library to get checked out!

Lorna Dauw

She always encouraged me to pursue a writing career. At least I think that’s what she meant every time she’d show me the door and say, “Don’t forget to write!” She found an easier way to serve left overs. She never clears the table.

Under, “Did You Know?”

When the Civil War broke out, both sides needed muskets. The Governor of Pennsylvania decided that he would supply some of his soldiers with pikes (lances). He and others felt they would make a big difference and the war would end quickly. So, 1,000 of the long wooden poles with sharp blades at the ends would do it. It was said that the line of Confederates watching the Yankees charge was humorous. No Confederates were injured and the lances were stored away for good.

Bait

You can still get live bait at Pankey’s Carbon Cliff Bait & Tackle. Probably sometime towards the end of the year the famous bait ‘n tackle shop will close its doors for good. That will be sad. Last week I talked with Debbie on where one should go to find bait, especially minnows. She suggested the Marathon Gas Station/Convenient Store, 621 State Ave., Hampton, IL. They open at 6 a.m. and their phone # is: (309)755-3862. Remember, so far Carbon Cliff Bait & Tackle will be open until later this fall.

NCAA, Can you just imagine if…..?

What if Nebraska’s Japanese BB player, Tominaga, married Notre Dame’s, BB player Hannah Hildaigo? Can you imagine how much fun it would be watching those two on the same team?

Humor

Dale Tanis told me his ear hurt. I said, “Inside or outside?” So, he went outside, came back in and said, “Both.” Maybe he doesn’t need an MD, but a psychiatrist.

Keith Vandewoestyne went to his local bank for a loan, but he will be paying it all back in 30 years. However, he’s no, dumb Belgian, if he robs a bank he’ll be out in 10 years.

Our son, Lance, has a good friend who is blind. The other day he asked Lance if he could borrow some money? He promised Lance he’d pay him back the next time he saw him. Hey, wait a minute!!!

Quote of the Week

“You must do the thing you think you cannot do.” - Eleanor Roosevelt

Local Bankers Graduate from Future Leaders Alliance

Angie Erickson, AVP-Lending Services, Brandt Hutchcraft, VP-Ag & Commercial Lender and Jo Lea Holevoet, VP -Residential Lending at Farmers National Bank proudly announce their graduation from the prestigious Future Leaders Alliance program offered through the Illinois Bankers Association. The graduation ceremony took place during the IBA’s The ONE Conference on March 7-8 in East Peoria.

The Future Leaders Alliance program is a 14-month leadership initiative designed to foster the professional growth and development of emerging leaders within the banking industry.

Throughout the program, Angie, Brandt and Jo Lea engaged in training sessions covering a range of topics, including Leadership and Influence, Team Building, Coaching, Service Leadership, Collaboration Skills, Financial Marketing, Personal Branding, Legislative Process, Presentation Skills, Accounting for Bankers, Asset Liability Management, Regulatory Hot Topics, Cyber Security, and more.

As part of their commitment to community engagement, they also dedicated time to local community service projects to promote financial literacy and empower individuals to make informed financial decisions.

"We are thrilled to congratulate Angie, Brandt and Jo Lea on their successful completion of the Future Leaders Alliance program," said Callan Stapleton, President of the Illinois Bankers Education Services. "This program was created to support our industry leaders and grow the industry, and we are proud to be able to offer this opportunity to our membership.”

For more information about Farmer National Bank's commitment to leadership development and community engagement, please visit www.farmersnationalbank.bank.

Angie Erickson(left), Brandt Hutchcraft,(middle), & Jo Lea Holevoet(right). Photo Submitted

Henry & Stark County Health Departments & First Choice Healthcare Note Diabetes Alert Day, March 26

Raeann Tucker
Director of Health Promotion
March 22, 2024

The Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare note that March 26th has been designated as Diabetes Alert Day. Nearly 26 million children and adults have diabetes and an additional 79 million are at-risk for developing Type 2 Diabetes.  Obviously, this disease is taking a devastating physical, emotional and financial toll on our country.  Yet, most Americans don't consider diabetes a serious matter.  They feel it is someone else's responsibility; someone else's problem. 

     The Health Department and First Choice Healthcare, along with the American Diabetes Association (ADA), wants to raise awareness about the importance of knowing the risk factors and symptoms associated with diabetes; as well as, its serious and life-threatening complications such as heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney disease and amputation. 

     Diabetes is dangerous because high blood sugar isn't usually something you can feel.  Many people have no outward type 2 diabetes symptoms at all and can go years without being diagnosed.  That's why it's important to be aware of the type 2 diabetes symptoms and risk factors for diabetes.  Get screened by a health care provider if you have the following type 2 diabetes symptoms: 

* Being unusually thirsty

* Having to urinate often

* Feeling hungry all the time

* Losing weight (without trying)

* Having blurry vision

* Feeling very tired

* Frequent infections

* Cuts and sores that heal slowly 

     If you are over age 45, talk with your health care provider about being tested for diabetes, especially if you are overweight or have family members with the condition.  Regardless of your age, if you are overweight and have one or more of the other risk factors listed, the ADA suggests that you be tested for diabetes now. 

      First Choice Healthcare reminds area residents that our Family Nurse Practitioners in Kewanee, Colona and Toulon can help with the management of non-insulin dependent diabetes management; high blood pressure and high cholesterol. If you don't know your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol numbers; we have services that can help you see where you stand. And for diagnosed diabetics, First Choice Healthcare notes they have low-cost lab services available with a doctor’s order. Testing is available through their clinic offices in Kewanee (309) 852-5272, Colona (309) 792-4011 and Toulon (309) 852-3115. 

GHS Student Teaches Watercolor Greeting Card Class - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Aspiring artists of all ages attended the recent Watercolor Greeting Card Masterclass, a Geneseo High School Art Club Fundraiser taught by GHS senior Kaye Hogue.

Kaye Hogue. Photo Submitted

“Students” in the class ranged in age from eight to adult.

The event was held in the GHS Library Commons and the invitation read: “In the spirit of spring, you will learn how to paint cherry blossom greeting cards. You will leave with five of your own handmade cards and knowledge of watercolor basics.”

GHS art instructors Sarah Degarmo and Kim Windisch assisted Hogue at the class.

Although the Watercolor Class is not the first class the Art Club has offered for the community, Hogue explained that it was different and said, “Other art classes tend to prioritize learning the medium first before dedicating a lot of time to working on a complete piece. In this class, we wanted everyone to have the chance to leave with five greeting cards they liked so we prioritized learning the steps to make one specific subject. We condensed a lot of information into a one-and-a-half hour class so our guests could leave with enough skill and knowledge to pursue the medium further.”

Cost of the class was $25 per person which included all materials – watercolor practice paper, watercolor cards and envelopes and engraved pencils.

In addition to being involved in Art Club at GHS, Hogue also is in band and Scholastic Bowl and she volunteers at the Geneseo Historical Museum. She added,”I love art of all kinds, but am most familiar with watercolor painting. Next fall I will be attending the University of Illinois at Chicago to study Art History and M Museum studies with the hope of one day becoming an art museum curator.”

The fundraiser was held in an effort to raise funds for the GHS Art Club trip to the Figge Museum in Davenport.

Geneseo High School Art Club Hosted a Watercolor Greeting Card Fundraiser at Geneseo High School. Photo Submitted

The recent class was held in an effort to raise funds for the GHS Art Club trip to the Figge Museum in Davenport. GHS Art Club members also will be at the upcoming Geneseo Art Walk on Saturday, April 27, in downtown Geneseo where they will be selling a variety of items they have created to continue to raise funds for upcoming trips to the Figge Art Museum and The Art Institute of Chicago.

Ameilia Seys & Anne Seys. Photo Submitted

Rachel Pratt & Nicole Freadhoff. Photo Submitted

Andrea Hogue, Kaye Hogue, & Sue Fonteyn, Photo Submitted

Cyanotype Print Making Class Scheduled at RutabagA Art Gallery

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Joyce Mattan. Photo by Claudia Loucks

Geneseo RutabagA Art Gallery member Joyce Mattan shows examples of cyanotype art, created by Jeanne Coulter O’Melia of Princeton. O’Melia will teach a class in cyanotype print-making from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 13, at RutabagA, 108 North State St. Cost is $10 per person which includes materials. Participants are asked to bring latex gloves and a smock; pressed flowers, ferns, flat evergreens such as arborvitae, etc.; pieces of lace paper or crocheted dollies, old photograph negatives or x-rays, and anything opaque enough to block out the sun. O’Melia added, “Participants also should bring a good imagination!” For more information about the class, call RutabagA at 309-944-4994. Claudia Loucks Photo

ABOUT JEANNE COULTER O’MELIA

At Iowa State University, O’Melia studied metal work, charcoal and pastel drawings and watercolor. At Augustana, she took metal casting and life drawing and spent one week at The Clearing, Ellison Bay, WI. O’Melia also has taken classes at the Geneseo Art League.

“Creating artwork in a variety of media continues to be a major joy of my life!” she said. “Whether in clay, painting, papier mache, sculpture or cyanotype prints, life experiences fuel my imagination and are reflected in my artwork. I enjoy life drawing.”

She uses pen and ink in her travels, at concerts and in church, or at footraces and biking events, and she added…”I have filled dozens of sketch books. Some drawings become cyanotype prints or acrylic paintings. Watercolors are always plein air. When working with clay, I usually make figures, animals or containers. I have also made two small ceramic finger labyrinths. Papier mache becomes people or animals.”

In 2012, she moved back to her childhood home on a farm north of Princeton and she said, “I’m discovering old photos and toys I played with and art work I made as a child. It’s a whole new source of inspiration!”

Jeanne Coulter O’Melia - Submitted Photo

Holocaust Memorial Exhibit 2024 at RutabagA Art Gallery with Saturday Reception - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Members of the RutabagA Art Gallery in downtown Geneseo at 108 North State St. are hosting the Holocaust Memorial Visual Arts Exhibit from Thursday, March 21, through Monday, through April 1.

Entries in the annual Meyer and Frances Shuneman Holocaust Visual Arts Contest were created by students in grades 6-12 at area schools.

The opening reception for the exhibit will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday at RutabagA at which time the winners of the contest who attend the reception will be introduced.

The exhibit will remain at RutabagA through April 1, and the public is invited to view the art work during regular gallery hours which are from 10:30 a.m. through 3 p.m. on Thursday through Saturday.

The contest is sponsored by the Jewish Federation of the Quad Cities, Quad City Arts, and the Yom Hashoah (Holocaust Remembrance Committee). The art work reflects the events and impact of the Holocaust.

Michaelsen said there were over 75 entries in this year’s contest which is held in conjunction with an essay contest. The winners will be recognized at the Yom Hashoah service to be held at 7 p.m. Sunday, May 5, at the Galvin Fine Arts Center at St. Ambrose University, Davenport.

Allan Ross, executive director of the Jewish Federation of the Quad Cities, said, “I want to thank the students who put so much effort into their visual art entries, and the teachers that encourage them to do so. The history of the Holocaust and the lessons learned are extremely important subjects that need to be taught in every school, especially in today’s challenging and often divisive world.”

Sharon Michaelsen, president of the RutabagA Art Gallery, shows the art work by Kate Walsh, of Bettendorf and a student at Jordan Catholic School in Rock Island that won first place in the annual Meyer and Frances Shuneman Holocaust Visual Arts Contest sponsored by the Jewish Federation of the Quad Cities, Quad City Arts, and the Yom Hashoah (Holocaust Remembrance Committee). Photo by Claudia Loucks

“Lise’s Yellow Dress” is the art work designed and created by Lilly Jones, an eighth grade student in Orion. The dress is from her interpretation of Lise’s dress in the book “Number the Stars” by Lois Lowry, which introduced her to the Holocaust and Danish Resistance. Her entry won Honorable Mention in the Holocaust Visual Arts Contest. Photo by Claudia Loucks

Steve Taets appointed Community President at Farmers National Bank Geneseo

Prophetstown, IL - With Bill Dale’s retirement from Farmers National Bank on December 31, 2023, Steve Taets was appointed Community President at the Geneseo location. Dale remains on the bank and holding company boards.

Taets graduated from St. Ambrose University with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics. He joined the Geneseo bank in 2013 as a Lender and has 17 years of overall banking experience. Steve resides in rural Coal Valley with his wife Kendra and their three children. He enjoys being active in the family farm he grew up on and spending time as Treasurer for the AG Alumni in Geneseo.

Founded in 1902, Farmers National Bank is a community bank with over $850 million in assets and serves customers from locations in Geneseo, Prophetstown, and Morrison. Taets noted that FNB remains committed to its customers and communities with fully staffed locations and people that are ready to serve you and your banking needs. We strive for the highest level of service with a personal touch.

Bill Dale(left) & Steve Taets(right) Photo Submitted

It’s Tough, But Someone Has To Do It - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

Living Lands & Waters “Barge Party”

This is one big and fun event! Lorna and I have volunteered at the “BP” several times and it is nice meeting all the friendly people. Right now, I do not have all the particulars, but mark the date on your calendar. It will be held on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at the Beacon Harbor Visitor Center, 101 Beacon Harbor Pkwy, East Moline, IL, 61244. Parking w/shuttle will be at the John Deere Harvester Works (follow signs). Unfortunately for me, I will be in Canada on a fishing trip. Ha! It’s tough, but someone has to do it. There will be a really nice dinner and entertainment included in the price of the ticket.

Lorna and her sister, Elneta, will be working the name tag tent. Tickets must be purchased ahead of time. I will have a reminder as we get closer to the event.

Passport to Local Adventures

There are 7 local museums that are participating in the “2024 Museum Hop, A Guide to Area Museums.” Here is how it works. If you visit any of the following listed museums and get your museum passport stamped (At least 3 different museums), you will qualify for a $100.00 drawing held on Sept 15, 2024.

The participating museums are:

  1. Henry County Historical Society/Museum.

  2. Mercer County Historical Society/Essey-Noble Museum.

  3. Neponset Historical Society/Museum.

  4. Princeville Heritage Museum.

  5. Sheffield Historical Society/Museum.

  6. Stark County, IL, Historical Society/Museum.

  7. Warren County Historical Society/Museum.

Please mail the stamped page(s) of at least 3 different museums you visited and postmarked by September 1, 2024, you will qualify for the drawing.

Send to: Stark County, IL, Historical Society, PO Box 524, Toulon, IL 61483.

What is also nice is the handy little passport contains some information about each museum plus location and hours the museums are open. Donations are always welcomed. So, if you love history, antiques and learning about the wonders of our part of Illinois, come visit our museums.

Fen

The dictionary describes a Fen as an area of low, flat, marshy land, swamp; bog. Well, it is quite a bit more than that. It is very “rare!” Terry Brock, Cambridge, IL, is “the” authority on Fens. At the March meeting of the Geneseo Izaak Walton Club meeting, Terry gave an excellent presentation on the Fen.

The most interesting part of all this is that there is a Fen just east at the Ikes Park. At one time it covered a great deal more extending to Route 82, perhaps more. The Geneseo Ike’s Fen is a very wet place. It is at least over 6 feet deep.

It is a mixture of organic peat and sandy soil that is saturated with calcium rich surface and groundwater seeping from the base of the wooded sandy slope just above it. The Fen has ecological significance due to its contribution to plant diversity, water quality and wildlife/fish habitats. In Illinois, less than 1% of original marsh and Fen wetlands remain. Actually, there are very few places in our country that harbors such a unique place. There is so much more to tell about the local Fen, but space does not allow it. The Geneseo Izaak Walton League is going to “step up to the plate” and do some work on the path leading to the Fen.

24 – 40 Good Fish’n

Three weeks ago, on a Tuesday morning, Gary Dahlquist and I spent the morning fishing for crappies. We fished from shore on a private lake in Henry County. We each caught 18 crappies and I got one bass. Now we did not expect that same good luck on Tuesday, March 12. While the temperature was nice, the strong winds made us wonder if we made the correct decision.

Oh, yes! We made the right call that morning. We fished from 9:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Gary caught 40 nice crappies and I got 24 including a bass. Gary caught a 3 lb. bass and a minute later he hooked on to an even bigger one, but it slipped off as he was bringing it to shore. I sure never thought we would catch much because of the 20 knot waves rolling over the lake. Who can figure?!

Silly Humor

Lorna and I call each other at least five times a day. It’s not as romantic as it sounds. She calls me so I can find my phone, and I call her so she can find hers.

Airplanes seem to be taking hits these days. On my last flight the pilot announced, “We’ll be on the ground in 15 minutes. Anyone needing to get off before that, talk to a flight attendant.”

On that same flight one of the flight attendants said over the intercom, “We’ll be on the ground in 10 minutes. Sooner if you all lean forward.”

Quote of the Week

“That is a good book which is opened with expectation, and closed with delight.” - Amos Bronson Alcott