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By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
There will be a special Accessibility Swim from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday at the John & Carla Edwards Aquatic Center. The reserved time is for swimmers with disabilities or sensory issues. Special accessibility swimmers are welcome to bring their immediate family members to join them.
The swim is free for Geneseo Park District and Aquatic Center members. There will be a $5 per person or $20 per family charge for non-members.
Joan Windisch, seated; and Jean Hahn, representing the Sugar Maple Ladies Golf League, are hoping area lady golfers will join them on Monday, July 15, at their annual SWING ‘Fore’ the Cure Event at the Sugar Maple Golf Course in Geneseo.
By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
Joan Windisch, seated; and Jean Hahn, representing the Sugar Maple Ladies Golf League, are hoping area lady golfers will join them on Monday, July 15, at their annual SWING ‘Fore’ the Cure Event at the Sugar Maple Golf Course in Geneseo.
All area lady golfers are invited as guests to join the group for a round of golf, luncheon, prizes and raffle drawings. All proceeds will be donated to Trinity’s Capital Campaign “Together for Life,” in the fight against all types of cancers. For more information and to register, contact Jean Hahn at ajhahn.math@gmail.com by Monday, July 1, and call 309-945-5750 to register after July 1 and leave a return call number. Registration Form
By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current
July 4th Fun in the Park
This is the “Big” event in the Geneseo Park and Richmond Hill. It starts with many volunteers putting the “Aisle of Flags” throughout the park. I believe they start putting up the flags at 7 a.m. and taking them down at 2 p.m. It is truly a beautiful sight. At 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Geneseo Kiwanis will be hosting their “Pork in the Park” in the pavilion. They will serve grilled pork chops and patties, coleslaw, chips and a drink. Those cooks do a great job!
Dessert and Music
After chowing down some great food courtesy of the Geneseo Kiwanis, you don’t want to miss visiting the Maple City Band Dessert Tent for homemade desserts and ice cream. Donations are welcome.
What would the Fourth of July event be without some great patriotic music courtesy of Director Alan Kiser and the Geneseo Maple City Band. They will begin at 1 p.m. in the band shelter. If you don’t want to sit on a parkbench, bring your lawn chair.
If any of you can volunteer to help set-up the tent and/or help serving food, it would be greatly appreciated.
Thrill on the Hill
The fun doesn’t end in the park. Richmond Hill is going to continue with lots of food and beverages from 5:3o to 9 p.m. There will be children activities from 6 to 8 p.m. How ‘bout some more music?
The “Jason & John Experience” will perform from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. I’m not sure what “Sushi Roll” is (fish?), but it will be available from 7 to 9 p.m. Face Painting and Hair Tinsel will be available from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Lyn Paris will like that.
To top it all off, the fireworks will begin at dusk. Last year they were awesome. Make sure to give a donation. So “all ‘n all” it looks like a jam packed day.
I talked to Mother Nature and she said if we are all nice, she will wave any rain forcasted.
On June 24th, at the Ikes Park, Geneseo Girl Scout "Daisys" learned about fishing from some members of the Geneseo Izaak Walton League. Photo Submitted
Girl Scout "Mardy" (left) recently caught a fish while learning about fishing on the Canal. Her friend, "Teagan" (right) helped Mardy bring the whale to shore. Photo Submitted
726
This is kind of crazy, but this number shows up many times when shown on TV. An example is if there is a countdown on some sporting event and the clock stops on 726 meaning 7 minutes, 26 seconds. This has been going on for at least a year or two. The number “726” was our house number when we lived in Moline. It’s not just sporting events, but when a number shows up many times it is “726.” Is it telling me to revisit my old homestead? Does it mean that on the 26th day of the 7th month (July) of some year, something good or bad happens? It is just weird. I’ll let you know unless, of course, on that day I’m lowered 6 feet below the grass!
Humor
I’m not so sure I believe in an afterlife, but just in case I am bringing a change of underwear.
I’ve reached old age when Lorna told me to pull in my stomach and I already have!”
Brian Kiser, Tuba Player: “Did you hear my last recital?” Friend Lance Dauw: “I hope so!”
“Why did the guitarist use a fish to play his instrument?” Ans: By Tuna-ing his guitar.
Meredith McNaught has a very expensive guitar for sale. “No strings attached.”
Quote - “Every eel hopes to become a whale.”
German Proverb
By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
The American Red Cross is holding a blood drive on Tuesday, July 2, at the South Annex (back entrance of the Geneseo First Methodist Church (south campus) of the church. The drive will begin at 12 noon and continue until 6 p.m. Donuts donated by Geneseo Donut Shop will be available.
With the extreme heat the area has been experiencing, the Red Cross suggests that those people planning to donate should drink an extra 16 ounces of water or non-alcoholic drink prior to their donation.
It is also recommended that donors increase Vitamin C in their diet by eating fruits and leafy green vegetables, such as strawberries, tomatoes, spinach and Brussels sprouts.
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.
For ease in donating, the Red Cross Donor app can be downloaded from the App Store to make Rapid Pass quick and easy.
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).
Allison (Farrell) Cooney and her dad, Ron Farrell, are photographed on the Trump Turnberry Golf Course in Scotland. (Contributed Photo)
By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
Allison (Farrell) Cooney loves playing golf, and she it is always on her bucket list to play golf in different countries. She recently won a contest that allows her to be doing just that…”But what makes it really special is this time I will be able to be able to do it with my Dad,” she said.
Cooney won the contest that was sponsored by Women’s Golf Digest and Carr Golf, through the social media platform Instagram that will send her and her Dad, Ron Farrell of Geneseo, on a trip to Kerry, Ireland, in July, where they will be playing golf at the Dooks Golf Club and the Waterville Golf Links.
“We won the contest to receive an all-expense paid entry into the tournament,” Cooney said, “But in Ireland, we will be competing against 35 father-daughter duos from six different countries.”
Golf has long been a big part of the Farrell family as parents, Ron and Lisa Farrell, and sister, Ashley, are avid golfers.
After graduating from GHS in 2012, Cooney earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business in Supply Chain Management from Western Illinois University, Macomb, before joining the work force in 2016. She also was on the golf team at Western.
While a student at GHS, Cooney played on the golf team and earned a spot at State in her senior year where she placed in the top 25 golfers.
She was the assistant golf coach at GHS from 2016 until 2023, when she and her husband, Robert Cooney, moved to North Carolina, where they live near Raleigh. She continues to play golf recreationally and said she and her husband play golf together several times a week.
In addition to playing golf, she also volunteers at a local golf course with the First Tee program…”I am helping teach five and six-year-olds skills they can use on the golf course as well as in life,” she said.
Allison’s Entry in Golf Contest – Why She Wanted to Play Golf with Her Dad in the Event
“At the age of 8 my Dad introduced me to the game of golf and sparked a life long passion. He has always, and will always, be my favorite golf partner. He started as my swing coach, and over time, those roles have reversed. I played college golf. 80 collegian rounds and my Dad never missed a swing. Since those days we've completed our "Spectator Grand Slam" to watch all four of the Men's Majors together. The feat was achieved at St. Andrews where my Dad took me on a golf trip of a lifetime to Scotland. I have since moved away from our hometown to pursue my dream of working in the golf industry. This means fewer rounds of golf together but makes the rounds we get that much more meaningful. Golf is much more than a game to both of us, but a way of life. Watching, playing, working, coaching - golf is always at the center of what we do together. Winning this would allow me to give my Dad just a small piece of what he has given me these past 20 years.”
Sue Sterling (Photo Contributed)
By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
Sue Sterling has been named “Volunteer of the Month” at the Geneseo-Atkinson Food Pantry. She has been a volunteer at the food pantry for ten months and works in the food room assisting guests with their shopping.
Sterling said guests to the food Pantry are amazed at the wide variety of food and personal care items that are available.
She moved to Geneseo in 2021 from Medford, MA, to help her parents.
In her free time, Sterling enjoys reading, book club, bike riding, fitness walking and exploring new places.
She said the best thing about volunteering at the Food Pantry is meeting and working with “such a great group of people – guests, volunteers and staff. They make working a lot of fun!”
Her most memorable experience at the food pantry was at Christmastime, seeing all the wonderful gifts and gift wrapping supplies available to guests and their families. Also, she was able to see first-hand the support that the local community provides to the food pantry with their food, clothing and household item donations.
First Honor Roll - GPA of 3.50 to 4.40
8th Grade
Raidyn P. Allison, Stella R. Allison, Piper M. Andersen, Claudia J. Angelo, Katherine H. Barickman, Landon L. Barnett, Layna Z. Bassett, Luke Z. Bedford, Lillian J. Bellagamba, Evan C. Bender, Tivya R. Bernier, Fritz E. Bolme, Allison M. Boone, Braxton W. Boone, Kanon J. Boster, Makayla R. Bros, Alivia J. Brown, Jaylee A. Brudos, Nolan J. Burton, Rylan R. Carlson, Sophie L. Carter, Lydia G. Carton, Quinn F. Cherry, Taeton P. Chirchir, Ella K. Clementz, Cole T. Clifton, Ellah R. Clifton, Harrison M. Conley, Elijah A. Coppejans, Brayden D. Cox, Mallory A. Daniels, Evelyn M. DeBaene, Emilie A. DeCastecker, Madelyn S. DeJohn, Olivia E. DeSplinter, Bryce M. Diehl, Isla D. Disterhoft, Sophia P. Doyle, Riley J. Dwyer, Camryn N. Ebert, Megan A. Ehlert, Kamee A. Eighmy, Mason W. Emerick, Brycen E. Fahnestock, Andrew M. Feely, Phoenix B. Ferro-Heller, Jasmine M. Foss, Jackson T. Frank, Carter A. French, Gretchen A. Fuelling, Hannah M. Fuelling, Jacey L. Gehl, Gavin M. Gillespie, Karlee C. Hankins, Vance B. Hansen, Kade M. Heilman, Kaylin A. Heller, Cole T. Henson, Skylar M. Hileman, James H. Hill II,I Madelyn M. Holmes, Cameron J. Jansen, Annibelle M. Juarez, Austen C. Kane, Anabella V. Kelley, Noah J. Klick, Penelope A. Kline, Lilah J. Klotz, Mayson J. Lambin, Isabella L. McConville, Raygen M. McKeag, Jillian N. McMahil,l Ian J. McShane, Addison C. McSparin, Catalina J. Meis, Faith N. Mierop, Alice M. Miller, Natalie R. Minnaert-Yocum, Ainsleigh K. Misfeldt, Madison J. Morrison, Keelie M. Mueller, Quin R. Nichols, Micah J. Nicke, Anastasia M. Pitsoulakis, Aleksie F. Possin, William Rankins, Colin M. Roemer, Ida G. Rowold, Ella J. Schaaf, Meghan M. Scheider, Dylan J. Schneider, Brooklyn J. Schnowske, Jaxson J. Seals, Ella R. Shannon, Madelyn E. Sherman, Alyssa C. Simpson, Maycie L. Sims, Stella M. Smith, Addison K. Snell, Sophia G. Snell, Sydney M. State, Addilyn G. Swan, Ella C. Taylor, Keiran L. Thornburg, Luca J. Turigliatti, Kellen E. VanKerrebroeck, Eden P. VanOpdorp, Patrick J. Versluis, Kailee L. Von Motz, Nicole E. Werling, Jayden C. Wheaton, Hannah M. Wildemuth, Sage R. Windisch, Peyton A. Woodruff
7th Grade
Jocelyn A. Aguirre, Paisley J. Arnold, Avery K. Bagby, Jocelyn M. Bagby, Alex F. Balensiefen, Ella M. Bernhard, Anna G. Berry, Daphne M. Bertelsen, Hannah E. Billingsly, Boston J. Brewer, Leila M. Bries, Peyton L. Brodie, Dia R. Bros, Charlee A. Bruce, Annika R. Brumbaugh, Helo J. Castro, Ashlynn G. Chamberlain, Leah M. Cooper, Alexander R. Darnall, Gavin P. Davis, William A. Davis, Christian R. Dawson, Ellaina F. DeLoose, Henry M. Dwyer, Brenna Dykstra, Kyle M. Everett, Sawyer J. Forsythe, Landon A. French, Eleanor M. George, Bryce R. Gillespie, Maci L. Gorman, Ava L. Graham, Hailey R. Griswold, Daegan J. Hansen, Owen M. Harri,s Karoline M. Hasson, Kenzi J. Hasson, Lyla H. Henry, Emmett W. Hill, Emma J. Hofer, Hunter G. Hoover, Easton R. Hornback, Anthony J. Jackson, Ellie J. Jackson, Owen M. Jacobi, Brynn R. Kinney, Collin P. Kreiss, Madison G. Kuethe, Faith H. Kuster, Zebin Lin, Katherine A. Maloy, Chloe J. Mance, Liliana R. Marshall, Wyatt J. Mickley, Gibson M. Minard, Emma E. Minnaert, Tad R. Moore, Kasen J. Mosier, Paul M. Nelms, Katrina G. Nerud, Suzanne L. Neumann, Mia G. O’Dell, Isabella A. Ong, Jackson P. Parker, Henry A. Pratt, Annie C. Reed, Payton L. Riffe, Eve M. Robb, Brooke N. Robinson, Isaac J. Ropp, Cormac J. Round, Olivia L. Ruby, Jocelyn M. Russelburg, Novak B. Ryerson, Reese G. Schaaf, James W. Seals, Blazen J. Sellers, Chelsea R. Shamblin, Mark H. Shoemaker, Paige A. Sides, Benjamin C. Simosky, Kinley M. Smith, Jack A. Snook, Milla W. Stewart, Genevieve V. Talley, Ethan B. Temperley, Allison G. Tice, Garrett R. Tranel, Sophia I. Urquiza, Jaxson R. VanAntwerp, Payton N. Vanzuiden, Ella M. Versluis, Khloe R. VonHolten, Charlize A. Wachtel, Lucy C. Walck, Molly D. Wannemacher, Ashlyn M. Werthmann, Lilly M. Wilshusen, Giana M. Wurslin, Levi J. Wyffels, Jett F. Znamenacek
6th Grade
Kynlee G. Adam, Penelope M. Aukee, Lincoln Babcock, Lilith R. Ballard, Delia J. Bellagamba, Kenneth M. Bernhard JR., Mason D. Bess, David M. Betcher, Zachary L. Blank, Kobe T. Britton, Reegan R. Brown, Harmonie R. Burk, Drake M. Burton, Liam M. Campos, Eliana H. Charlet, Ryan M. Coleman, Colton M. Crutcher, Hattie R. Deaner, Finley A. DeSplinter, Sofie F. Diebold, Joshua A. Diehl, Cameron P. Doyle, Ella L. Driskel,l Kieran A. Efflandt, Will E. Ehlert, Tatum W. Eiselstein, Kameron R. Floming, Jason S. Flondor, Lillian C. Fritz, Lucas M. Fuelling, Alivia N. Gaines, Brady H. Garard, Thomas W. Gaskey IV., Sophia G. Gluck, Lily G. Green, Audreyana Grove, Drew M. Hagerman, Huxley O. Haley, Sean P. Haley, Maddison G. Harris, Addyson R. Havill, Emily F. Hayes, Evelyn R. Hemphill, Kura L. Henson, Ella A. Hepner, Ethan A. Hepner, Brooke N. Herington, Canon W. Hudson, Maverick X. Hull, Ella R. Johnson, Aislyn S. Kane, Jayden L. Kelley-Leach, Addison I. Kelly, Korah E. Klotz, Olivia M. Krause, Norah D. Kuddes, Carter J. Lampe, Gwendolyn R. Lee, Hillary M. Lewis, Wyatt T. Lynch, Zane S. Matheny, Jocelynn E. Matthews, Vander E. McAvoy, Adrian M. McSparin, Elijah J. Melton, Tristan R. Melton, Jaela J. Minnaer,t Wyatt L. Murray, Brylee J. Nelson, Willa K. Newburg, Easton P. Nichols, Kamryn E. Nordstrom, Zak N. O’Dell, Hailey R. Olson, Kenryk L. Osborn, Andrew N. Parrish, Aarav P. Patel, Elle M. Patterson, Carter G. Peacock, Lillian C. Putnam, Carter C. Robb, Macie R. Rotz, Jensen H. Rubitsky, Cooper T. Sanders, Jack W. Schaaf, Emma E. Schneider, Rykken L. Schweitzer, Braeden S. Scott, Reese M. Shanno,n Kyndall M. Shappard, Seren I. Sharpe, Hunter T. Short, Ayden M. Smith, Alexander A. Soukup, Dryden B. Stokes, Jack D. Sullivan, James D. Sutherland, Skilynn N. Tarrant, Gabriel H. Taylor, Myleigh G. Thinglum, Savanna F. Thompson, Charlotte J. Vandersnick, Adler M. VanOpdorp, Lillian G. VanOpdorp, Kenna L. Weber, Cole B. Weinzierl, Rosella J. Wentz, Peyton E. Wexell, Addison L. Williams, Brooklyn S. Williams, Kyle T. Wirth, Leotho K. Woodruff, Henry V. Woodward, Sesamir H. Yearby, JR.
Second Honor Roll - GPA of 3.00 to 3.49
8th Grade
Robert R. Armstrong, Cyrus J. Babcock, Mickayla J. Bowles, Greyson F. Claerhout, Brynn K. Coats, Brinnley P. Coppejans, Lydia M. DeKezel, Van M. DeSplinter, Jack B. Drouin, Madison S. Fontenoy, Jeremiah J. Frere, Zoe J. Friedline, Jack C. Gehling Evelyn S. Gernant, Kane J. Hamer, Andrew J. Hamerlinck, Eva J. Hansen, Aiden C. Hawkins, Aundrea J. Haynes, Anadiyah M. Karn, Mikenzie J. Langdon, Ethan J. Leetch, Taylor R. Lohberg, Rayne P. Mangin, Tanner L. Massingill, Isaiah J. Melton, Evan M. Orwig, Jadynn B. Pollard, Arianna L. Robbins, Macey M. Rosholm, Titus J. Schweitzer, Kadence M. Shappard, Jaydn K. Shipman, Luke J. Snodgrass, Kyla K. Strode, Cole J. Tully, Chase M. VanDeWoestyne, Korionna M. VanZuiden, Ryan J. Waterman, Parker L. Weisser, Olivia H. Yost
7th Grade
Kylie A. Achenbach, Cole P. Anderson, Evan M. Bei,l Arie B. Blancarte, Cullen V. Boone, Alden C. Brown, Savannah K. Carlson, Knox D. Causemaker, Autumn M. Cunningham, Miles G. Curcuru, Zachary M. Davis, Davin R. DeBoef, Lilyonna L. Decker, Jacksen K. Doubet, Chazz J. Eng, Emily A. Garcia, Wesley D. Graham, Cooper G. Hudson, Clare R. Hulsbrink, Eli D. Johnston, Delaney T. Killian, Matthew E. Krause, Andrew J. Kreps, Michael G. Lawson, Isabella L. Lewis, Rylie J. Lopez, Luke E. McCann, Tylaiha M. Medina, Kellan J. Miller, Ryder J. Painter, Owen A. Pollock, Coralie J. Randall, Violet E. Runty, Faith H. Schaver, Julia R. Schnaufer, Emma R. Schroeder, Klaire E. Sikardi, Alydia M. Smith, Kais A. Sproston, Gage R. Steffes, Ean R. Tank, Grace L. Toney, Wyatt F. Vroman, Aiden M. Weishaar, Preston C. Wood, Alec L. Woods
6th Grade
Kaelyn J. Ash, Lyrin A. Barnes, Natalie A. Beavers, Allison A. Bos, Mason F. Brooks, Kellan S. Courtright, Jaxon T. DeCastecker, Grant R. Dietsch, Giovanni A. Escobar, Everlee M. Fobert, Jesus R. Guerrero, Bennett A. Holke, Charlize J. Janczak, Maddux K. Kennedy, Kinleigh J. Kiefer, Cohen M. Krantz, Hunter T. Lambin, Vanessa M. Logsdon, Alexander M. Lopez, Clara P. Mallum, Connor J. Maloy, Gage A. Mariman, Shayla A. Monahan, Adelynn R. Murphy, Hayley L. Newburg, Garrett V. Nicholson, Hunter J. Olson, Baylen M. Poffenberger, Teagan A. Price, Tessa O. Reveal, Mason L. Schaapveld, Michael Sichling JR., Easton A. Sigwalt, Mylee M. Sim, Aubrey L. Skinner, Mason P. Smith, Preston T. Snell, Henry J. Staffeldt, Madeline S. Thornburg, Noah W. Tully, Genessa K. Underwood, Easton R. Veloz, Ryker J. Vincent, Trigg J. Vincent, Caden J. Williams, Ryland A. Williamson, Aspen F. Znamenacek
By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
Norma Lodge(left) being driven by Brynn Wildemuth(right).
The Kiwanis Club Doo-Dah Parade is an annual activity in the Geneseo Music Festival weekend. This year it also became a family birthday celebration for Norma Lodge, who will be 99 years old on July 20.
Lodge’s family members of all ages, from children and grandchildren to great-grandchildren, walked in this year’s Doo-Dah Parade held Friday, June 14, in downtown Geneseo. They wore T-shirts that read “Norma’s 99.”
The “birthday girl” can be seen riding in a gator, being driven by her great-granddaughter, Brynn Wildemuth, and the band members providing the birthday music are Lodge’s great-grandchildren.
Families who took part in the event included Lodge’s daughter and son-in-law, Steve and Lynette Wildemuth and their son Dirk Wildemuth and his wife, Megan, and their children; Wildemuth’s daughter Heidi Fleming and her husband, Adam Fleming and their children; and Lodge’s daughter Mary Gorman and her daughter Chrissy Weir and her children, and the children of Gorman’s son, Tom Gorman.
Nearly 25 members of the Lodge family took part in the parade to celebrate the milestone birthday of Norma Lodge.
By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
The 116-voice adult Geneseo Community Choir and the 26-voice Children’s Choir will celebrate their 16th annual concert entitled “Does It Matter?” at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 26, in the Geneseo High School Concert Hall, located at the south end of Geneseo High School, 700 North State St.
Repertoire includes “Do You Hear the People Sing,” “Memory,” and “Bridge over Troubled Waters.”
The Geneseo Children’s Choir will sing “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.”
Special performances will be presented by Addison Dykstra (2024 GHS graduate), and Isabella Haney (2024 GHS graduate and recipient of the Community Choir Scholarship).
Brass ensembles, a hand bell choir, guitarists, percussionists and dancers will be featured at the program.
Tickets are $5 for K-12th grades, $7 for 18 years of age and older; and children under five years old are free.
By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
Hammond-Henry Hospital Auxiliary scholarship recipients were introduced at the auxiliary’s annual ice cream social held in Geneseo City Park.
The Auxiliary awarded 22 health career scholarships, totaling $40,500, to area students. This year’s number of scholarships was increased by eight.
In the photograph taken at the Auxiliary’s annual ice cream social are, from left, Kathleen VanDeRostyne, Volunteer/Auxiliary Supervisor; Linda DeSmith, scholarship committee member; Tracy Johnson, Adah Smutzer, Sarah Barrett, Keeli Frerichs, Karen Patterson; in back, Reagan Erickson, Courtney VandeVoorde, Emma Stone, Emma Dunker, Hannah Stelby, Brandon Gallagher, Lisa Betsworth, scholarship committee member; and Jan Sellman, scholarship committee chairperson.
Kathleen VanDeRostyne said, “A big thank you to all who came to the Ice Cram Social despite the gale force of winds, and many thanks to the community members who continue to support all of the Hammond-Henry Hospital Auxiliary fundraisers. Contributed Photo
By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
Steve Scherer is retired as the Geneseo High School band director, but in no way is he retired from the world of music.
He recently served as grand marshal of the 2024 Geneseo Music Festival Parade held on Father’s Day, a fitting role as music continues to be a major part of his life.
Zack Sullivan, executive director of the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce and event organizer for the Geneseo Music Festival, commented about the selection of Scherer as grand marshal and said, “Steve retired a few years ago as band director at Geneseo High School after decades of inspiring band students and sharing his gift of music with so many.”
“Steve's retirement and contributions to the community marks a well-deserved honor, which is fitting to take place during the Geneseo Music Festival as Grand Marshal of the annual Father’s Day Parade in Geneseo,” Sullivan added.
After retirement as GHS band director, Scherer took a nine-month piano technician course and is certified to tune and repair pianos. He also is part of the music team (praise band) at Grace United Methodist Church in Geneseo.
Grandchildren also are a big part in Scherer’s life and at 7:30 on Monday though Friday mornings, he can be found at the home of his daughter and son-in-law, Allison and Bronson Good, where he entertains grandsons, Adler, 4, and Rowan, 2, and their 10-week-old sister Leonora, while their parents get ready for work.
In addition, Scherer and his wife, Jane Scherer, have a son, Jack, Chicago; and a daughter, Diana, who lives in Cardiff by the Sea, located outside of San Diego.
Steve Scherer(left) as Grand Marchal of the 2024 Geneseo Music Festival Parade.
He also spends time with his parents, taking them to all of their scheduled appointments. His father, Dick Scherer, is a resident in an apartment at Allure of Geneseo; and his mother, Annette Scherer, lives in the nursing home at Allure.
In 2021, after 34 years as a band director, Scherer stepped down as a band director. He was drawn to music in his childhood and said when he and his brother each received a Panasonic tape recorder for Christmas, he was fascinated with the technology and started recording all kinds of sounds for fun…”The next year we received a portable record player and two 45rpm records each. I would listen and marvel at how realistic the tones of each instrument sounded. At the end of fifth grade, when we could try out instruments for band starting the next school year, I knew I wanted to play one. I chose drums and percussion and I never stopped playing and still play today.”
He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Western Illinois University, Macomb, and a Master’s Degree from the University of Illinois in 2001. His first teaching job was in Bedford, IN.
He then took an adventurous break from teaching and moved to Austin, TX, to play and tour professionally in a rock band. Nine years later he and his family moved to Geneseo to raise their family.
That move was 30 years ago and Scherer first taught beginning band in Pleasant Valley, IA, for a year, before becoming the Director of Bands at Rock Island High School.
In 2002, his predecessor in Geneseo, Victor Bianchetta, retired, and Scherer applied for the position and was hired.
By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current
Oh, Canada
If you don’t want to read about my trip to the northern wilderness of God’s country, then read something of more quality.
There were four of us anglers, Dennis & David Schoening, David Jensen, and myself, that left Eldridge on Friday, June 7, to Bear Claw Wilderness, Ontario. The camp just turned new ownership a few days before we arrived. For several years we all went to Bluffy Lake Resort, but there was a mix-up so we ended up in a new location on Wabaskang Lake.
It was less than an hour’s drive north of Dryden. We stayed overnight at a motel in Dryden. My room was $375. Ugh! We arrived at the camp the next day about 11 a.m. We had excellent lodging and our cabin had running water, bathroom, etc. Very nice! The new owner, “Toby,” his son, Max, and two others, Brian, and a lady, were all super friendly. Of course, our main objective was to catch and eat “Walleyes!”
We compare everything to Bluffy Lake because it is an outstanding walleye lake. In that respect, this new location fell quite short. We did have 4 walleye meals which included the awesome “David Schoening’s Walleye Chowder.” To die for!!
One day the three guys portaged to Lost Lake (Catch & Release only) where they caught nearly 100 walleyes, northerns, yellow perch and I think a “smally.” If you take away that day, the fishing was slow for walleyes. Not horrible, but not even close to the catches of the past Bluffy Lake adventures.
We were not alone, as it was tough going for other boats, too! We saw eagles, ducks, ground hogs, and a cow moose. When Mrs. Moose picked up our scent, she quickly went back into the forest.
Ground Hogs
One day I kept hearing a noise from under our cabin. It turned out there were three ground hogs having a party under the cabin. Camp worker, Brian, set out live traps and caught three in a matter of minutes. One was actually in our bathroom and how he got there is a mystery.
White Fish
Dennis caught a 20” fish we had never seen before. It kind of looked like a sucker or carp. We let it go and found out it was a white fish. I guess it would have been okay to eat.
Eaters
The slot limit on walleye was anything up to 18.” We caught and released some 18 - 21 inchers, and sometimes it was hard to catch “eaters.”
We did catch some nice yellow perch. They had spots we found on them, but they were okay to eat. We’re still alive!
Bait
We used worms, minnows and jigs. In Dryden I bought a $100.00 worth of nightcrawlers at Clark’s Bait & Tackle.
Worms were the bait of choice. Remember, you cannot bring worms across the border. Speaking of the border, we lucked out both coming and leaving Canada. No lines. Of course, the border guards are not the friendliest folks, so skip any kidding with them.
Master Cooks
I don’t cook! I don’t know how to and at 82 I’m useless behind a range. Fortunately, the two Schoening guys and David Jensen are really into cooking. I must have gained 10 pounds. Great food!
Handicap
I won’t harp on this, but it was hard on me getting around with my cane. It was a steep place to get to and from the boats, but the camp guys, Brian and Max, hauled me to our cabin in an ATV cart. Sometimes I tried to make it by myself, and Dennis, and the two Davids helped me. Those guys were “soooo” helpful. I should also mention that Dennis did most of the driving “to and from” Canada. He said he likes to drive. We enjoy solving the world’s problems. He used to be my boss with the Postal Service so we hashed around the “good old days!”
In Two Years
We now go to Ontario every two years. I’m not too sure I will be around in 2026, but I guess that’s up to the Big Fisherman in the sky above. If not, I have great memories of the trips to Canada since 1966.
Quote of the week
“I know of no way of judging the future, but by the past!” – Patrick Henry
From the City of Geneseo:
Due to forecasted dry conditions and to protect the City's water infrastructure, Mayor Johnson has proclaimed a Tier 1 Water Response, effective June 19, 2024. This move follows the unanimous passage of the Water Emergency Response Ordinance by the City Council on June 27, 2023.
The City Council has authorized the construction of a 5th water well for Geneseo, a project that is currently underway, estimated to be completed in November of this year. The process of completing a 5th well has been longer than anticipated, with challenges in identification of a productive water well site, EPA permitting, and land acquisition for the final selected site. Engineering for a 6th deep well is also in the City’s capital improvement plan.
Mayor Johnson points out that the most notable part of moving to Tier #1 from the City’s standard water conservation program, is that the use of lawn irrigation systems and lawn sprinklers is now allowed for only 2 days per week, per the below schedule:
Addresses Ending in an Odd Number: Tuesday & Saturday from 4am – 9am
Addresses Ending in an Even Number: Thursday & Sunday from 4am – 9am
The use of low-volume hand held applicators, such as a garden hose with a low-flow nozzle, along with hand-held watering using containers for flowers and other landscaping is permissible at any time.
The City will continue to re-evaluate the water response status based on environmental conditions and City pumping abilities as conditions change. The City would like to thank the community and its water customers for their continued assistance in this initiative.
Additional Information - cityofgeneseo.com - "Water Response"
First Honor Roll - GPA 3.50 to 5.40
Class of 2024
Jacob Adamson, Hayes Apt, Karson Banister, Braden Boone, Brooke Boone, Reagan Bopes, Emily Bopes, Russell Brown, Carter Bull, Gwen Burbridge, Rafe Burton, Thomas Carlin, Lonnie Catour, Saryna Ceurvorst, Trenton Chamberlain, Drake Chambless, Randy Chasek, Morgan Claerhout, Taylor Clark, Alexis Clementz, Daniel Coleman, Isaiah Conrad, Lynn Cotty, Morgan Cousins, Alexander Davis, Riley Davis, Emma DeBaene, Sophie DeCock, Olivia Dickey, Kelsey Dillie, Noah Disterhoft, Kaitlyn Dreifurst, Tyson Duda, Nathan Dunker, Mallory Dwyer, Addison Dykstra, Brielle Ettore, Kevin Farrell, Nolan Femali, Bretton Ferguson, Allyson Ford, Jason Foss, Abigail Frank, Jenna Freadhoff, Alyssa Gentry. Hayden Gray, Imogene Green, Garrett Hall, William Hamerlinck, Isabella Haney, Sarah Hansen, Caleb Hartman, Christopher Hayes, Bryce Henderson, Ethan Herstedt, Kathryn Hogue, Caiya Holke, Kodie Hudson, Carter Huizenga, Kobe Hull, Austin Hull, Luke Johnsen, Claire Kehoe, April Kelley, Mia Kelly, Aaron Kuster, Drew Laxton, Macy Litherland, Kylie Maertens, Corinne Mallum, Megan Malmstrom, Landon Marshall, Olivia Marshall, Kay McAvoy, Megan McClanahan, Isabella McDaniel, Brianna McGill, Patrick Miller, Adalai Mills, Connor Minnaert, Connor Mitchell, Hayden Moore, Samuel Mosbarger, Jeron Neal, Molly Neumann, Carleigh Norton, Madison Ochs, Logan Palmer, Alysia Perez, Carmella Pettit, Reed Preston, Elizabeth Ramp, Jacob Rapps, Jackson Reade, Ashley Rickey, Madeline Roberts, Leah Roemer, Ryley Rowold, Thomas Sahr, Alex Sahr, Kaden Salisbury, Bryce Sanders, Cooper Schaad, Grace Schilling, Madison Simms, Owen Skovronski, Tristen Smith, Sidney Spindel, Hayden Spranger, Joshua Steines, Paige Swain, Reese Swanson, Tyler Tafoya, Tanner Tarkington, Madison Thompson, Ella Traphagan, Amelia Vandemore, Joseph VanDeWoestyne, Taylor VanHoutte, Jackson VanHyfte, Kade VanOpdorp, Emma Veloz, Camdyn Villanueva, Skylar Wainscott, Adam Weller, Cole Williams, Ashlyn Williamsen, Cole York, & Kirsten Zimmerman
Class of 2025
Kamden Ariano, Shane Bagby, Liliana Balluff, Brooklyn Banta, Rachael Bauer, William Baum, Sophia Bellagamba, Aaron Betcher, Jackson Brumbaugh, Gage Buckallew, Madisyn Buysse, Elizabeth Carlin, Avery Catour, Tyler Chamberlain, Marley Cherry, Sophia Clifton, Dylan Cotty, Isabella Curcuru, Dru Curcuru, Elanor DeBlieck, Erica DeDecker, Ava DeWolfe, Connor Douglas, Emma Drockelman, Alayna Duckett, Grace Durian, Katelyn Durnell, Kendall Ellerbrock, Gwenivere Erickson, Addison Espe, Allison File, Mariella Fischer, Kayci Freeman, Chloe Fulcher, Dylan Gehl, Caroline Girten, Alessandro Grande, Brady Hamer, Christian Haney, Lindsay Herington, Tyler Holtzen, Sydney Hoover, Keaton Hudson, Malloree Humphrey, Leandro Ingoglia, Matthew Johnson, Lily Johnson, Preston Jones, Logan Jones, Avery Kennedy, Hope Kuster, Julia Lewis, Kruiz Ludwig, Annalise Maxwell, Katelynn McMahill, Nickalus Morris, Elizabeth Mroz, Sydney Nelson, Jacob Nelson, Kyah Newell, Bryce Nixon, Kale O Bryan, Colin Orwig, Owen Parker, Jennifer Parsons, Austin Pearce, Dylan Randolph, Allison Reade, Keely Roberts, Benjamin Robinson, Rachael Roodhouse, Ava Rusk, Marian Sanchez Sigala, Kara Sancken, Shay Schehl, Emilia Schmitt, Timothy Sebastian, Taylor Smith, Payton Snider, Addison Snodgrass, Avery Snook, Dyllan Staffeldt, Eric States, Lillian Taylor, Jordan Thomas, Kathryn VanDeWoestyne, Logan VanDeWoestyne, Carter VanOpdorp, Joseph Venneberg, Joseph Versluis, Dylan Whipple, Allison Wille, & Kailee Williams
Class of 2026
Zara Andersen, Isabella Angelo, Natalie Aukee, Eliana Barickman, Calvin Bell, Greta Bolme, Grant Bomleny, Erin Bowers, Bryson Boxell, Ava Brewer, Aiden Bries, Reid Brodersen, Isabelle Brooks, Liberty Brumbaugh, Jordan Cechowicz, Jocelyn Cechowicz, Mylee Clark, Brody Clementz, Jack Cooper, Erika Cotty, Samuel Curcuru, Anna Davis, Ava DeSplinter, Keira Disterhoft, Tyler Dowdal, Quinnland Einfeldt, Perry Farley, Landon Favri, Jonathan Freadhoff, Anabella Goethals, Breckan Gomez, Cora Gorman, Hayley Henry, Lucas Herstedt, Christopher Hill, Payton Hofer, Carter Holke, Jacob Holley, Adam Johnson, Andrew Kelly, Owen Kelly, Erik Kelly, Catherine Lehman, Karen Lester, Hannah Loehr, Emma Loehr, Tavion Mangin, Brock Marshall, Emma Massingill, James Matthews, Jackson McAvoy, Dawsyn McDonald, Hannah McGee, Cameron Melchert, Wyatt Neumann, Janey Neumann, Isaac Nixon, Reyhan Onder, Lucille Peters, Landry Possin, Elizabeth Rapps, Madison Reade, Olivia Sallach, Cy Sammons, Chase Sanders, Hayden Schaaf, Bee Scheider, Remy Sharpe, Alexander Snyder, Hannah Stone, Tucker Tarkington, Paislee Tuggle, Rafael Uguina Cuevas, Jay VanHerzeele, Quinntyn VanHyfte, Callie VanKerrebroeck, Ashton Veloz, Kye Weinzierl, Madeline Wells, Kjerstin Wildemuth, Kathryn Wilson, & Claire Yenor
Class of 2027
Mackenzie Air, Alejandro Aleman, Lilliana Anderson, Elena Anderson, Keaton Ariano, Mia Balensiefen, Jacob Berry, Eleanor Bertelsen, Annabelle Betcher, Nathan Billingsly, Grant Bjorkman, Taylor Boone, Lillian Brown, Ethan Brown, Isabella Brown, Jaydon Burrage, Grace Carlson, Kolby Causemaker, Brendan Cooksey, Callie Copeland, Phoenix Corlew, Sally-Ann DeBlieck, Claire DeGrave, Carter Dickey, Andre Diediker, Remlee Dwyer, Leah Falk, Madelyn Farnum, Taefyl Freeman, Tyler Gerstel, Hazel Harris, Keely Henry, Cheyenne Hopkey, Lambeau Janczak, Maddox Jansen, Mckenna Johnson, Micah Johnson, Trenton Kennedy, Matthew Kerschieter, Lydia King, Mckenzie Krug, Aria Mayo-Bechtel, Jack Mickley, Andrew Miller, Reese Minnaert, Madilyn Minnaert, Mark Nelms, Tyler Nelson, Lainey Norville, Esref Onder, Eli Palmer, Viola Pettit, Lauren Piquard, Carson Pratt, Natalie Reisner, Dominic Ritter, Hayley Rubitsky, Brooklyn Ruby, Connor Runty, Ayla Schultz, Nyna Schweitzer, Brylee Sheffler, Brooke Shollenberger, Reid Simpson, Brooklyn Smith, Molly Snyder, Ayama Stroh, Claire Swanson, Jeel Vakharia, Jiya Vakharia, Kaden VanAntwerp, Delaney Vroman, Lucille Wachtel, Kendyl Wassenhove, Connor Webster, Cade Wolf, Robert Wolfe, & Rebekah Zimmerman
Second Honor Roll - GPA 3.00 to 3.49
Class of 2024
Jillian Beneke, Raelyn Bjorkman, Anna Calabria, Garrett Carlson, Brayden Combs, Jill Corso, Bryce Duncan, Neal Gaskey, Jayden Ginther, Weston Graham, Nolan Griffith, Lucas Kaiser, Emmalee Kennedy, Owen Lively, Carson McDaniel, Cooper McKeag, Cole Miller, Landon Miller, Lauryn Newkirk, Celina Pena, Giavanna Ritter, Katlyn Seaman, Dylan Shipman, Morgann Steinert, Autumn Stephens, Jacob Stout, Isabel Stroud, Ella Toom, Logan Vroman, & Blake Webster
Class of 2025
Luke Abrahamsen-Collins. Mason Anderson, Camden Baumgardner, Mason Bealer, Brianna Bowles, Amelia Carlson, Anthony Carter, Jaidah Cribbs, Kaylee Floming, Elijah Ford, Kayden Fouts, Brayden Franzen, Zachary Goffe, Taylor Hawkins, Jessica Hodshire, Savannah Holley, Hayliegh-Jane Huglin, Max Johnson, Ayden Kane, Owen King, Bailey Koning, Elizabeth Lane, Aislan Leetch, Kayton Malzewski, Zachary Montez, Lilyann Mooney, Madelyn Mooney, Amber Newell, Dylan Pankey, Jack Polowy, Lauren Powell, Kaleb Rahn, Antonio Ramirez, Cooper Ries, Tristan Robinson, Cavence Rokis, Nile Ryerson, Ava Sedam, Olivia Seei, Callaghan Sheehan, Paxton Sherbeyn, Emma Skovronski, Nathanial Stees, Charlie Stetter, Leo Underwood, Hayden Veryzer, Jaylyn Wakenight, Gavin Wates, Abby Wilshusen, & Braelyn Wyffels
Class of 2026
Grady Bernahl, Brennan Brown, Aiden Brudos, Kamron Burris, Rylen Chambless, Joei Christopherson, Liam Coleman, Grant Collins, Jameson Coppejans, Matthew Darnall, Emma Dreifurst, Kaydee Eighmy, Margaret Elder, Cara Ettore, Boone Forsythe, Taber Fulks, Aidyn Gernant, Dalten Grimes, Bradley Hartman, Maria Hartsock, Jarett Hasson, Jacob Holley, Alexandria Hull, Alfredo Jimenez, Kameryn Keegan, Peyton Kies, Charlotte Kroll, Alegna Lopez, Jackie Milem, Jaiden Minnaert, Gavin Nicholson, Shrey Patel, Taylor Peterson, Michael Peterson, Meya Pollock, Jordan Ramirez, Annabelle Ropp, Nina Schmedding, Mya Splear, Izabella Stewart, Leland Stickle, Kwin VanKerrebroeck, Nick Vyas, Cameron Walker, Evelyn Wendland, & Kayleigh Wooden
Class of 2027
Flynn Arnett, Alexandra Bagby, Erik Bjorkman, Nathaniel Boone, Payton Boone, Evan Brooks, Wyatt Bruce, Evelyn Dahl, Aiden DeCap, Griffin DeWolfe, Alexandra Duncan, Jaxon Ernst, Adam Flondor, Ethan Galloway, Lilyann Garza, Tyler Gross, Kylei Hammond, Kiersten Hancock, Joseph Haser, Emily Haverback, Jeremiah Helm, Jakob Hodges, Megan Hursman, Adam Jackson, Scarlyt Johnson, Zachary Johnson, Grace Kaiser, Jack Kreiss, Delaney Lagaisse, Daniel Medrano, Jordyn Miller, Elijah Mosley, Carson Peters, Eric Polowy, Maddison Rakestraw, Brooke Robinson, Landon Rogers, Sydney Rosas, Finnegan Schaad, Kie Smith, Thomas Steele, Lilly Stubbs, Joseph Thoene, Emma Vandeveer, Vera Vincent, Jacob Walline, Landon Weimer, Avalynn Westfall, Jayden Wexell, Ryder Ryder, Justin Williams, Alexis Williams, & Kylee Wisely
By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
Mariah Hutchinson, left, co-emcee for the Geneseo Music Festival Queen Pageant; Kelsey Dillie and Addison Dykstra, Music Festival 2024 queen candidates, visit with Tiffany Stees, vice president of the Geneseo Women’s Club, at the salad supper held Thursday, June 13, in Central Schoolhouse Inn. Each year the Geneseo Women’s Club hosts the salad supper event for queen candidates, their mothers or guests and members of the pageant committee. The Queen Pageant is sponsored by Geneseo Rotary Club. Photo by Claudia Loucks
Hanna Stroud, left, 2023 Geneseo Music Festival Queen, visits with Cathy Rothschild, Geneseo Rotary Club pageant chairman, at the recent salad supper hosted by the Geneseo Women’s club and held in the Central Schoolhouse Inn. Photo by Claudia Loucks
Guests at the Geneseo Women’s Club recent salad supper included Sara Stroud, front left, who was crowned queen of the Geneseo Music Festival in 1995; Hanna Stroud, daughter of Sara Stroud, and who was crowned Geneseo Music Festival queen in 2023; and in back, Rhonda Peterson and her daughter, Jillian Beneke, who was named a runner-up in the 2024 queen pageant held Friday, June 14, in Geneseo City Park. Photo by Claudia Loucks
By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
Addison Dykstra, center, daughter of Curt and Sara Dykstra, was crowned queen at the 2024 Geneseo Music Festival Queen Pageant held Friday, June 14, in Geneseo City Park. Members of the court are, from left, Molly Neumann, second runner-up, daughter of Landon and Sharon Neumann; Kylie Maertens, first runner-up, daughter of Brice and Angela Maertens; the queen; Jillian Beneke, third runner-up, daughter of Jason Beneke and Rhonda Peterson; Madison Thompson, fourth runner-up, daughter of TJ and Marisa Thompson. The pageant is sponsored by the Geneseo Rotary Club and the queen receives a $500 scholarship. Each runner-up also receives a scholarship from the Rotary Club. Contestants not in the court are each given a $25 gift certificate from Geneseo Rotary. Photo by Claudia Loucks
Shae Robertson, center, was crowned princess at the first Geneseo Little Miss Music Festival Pageant held Friday, June 14, in Geneseo City Park, prior to the Queen Pageant. Members of the Little Miss court are, from left, Irie Boone, second runner-up; Breckyn Granell, first runner-up; the princess; Lillian Rowold, third runner-up; and Eden Ebert, fourth runner-up. Photo by Claudia Loucks
By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
Prior to Pageant(above)
Geneseo Music Festival Queen Pageant committee members Madeline Possin, back left, and Jean Pritchard, back right, provide some last minute help with hair styles to pageant candidates, Madison Ochs, front left, and Amelia Vandemore. Photo by Claudia Loucks
Music at Pageant
Geneseo High School vocalists, under the direction of Pam Edwards, left, provided piano accompaniment for the high school vocalists who sang at intermission of the Queen Pageant held June 14 in City Park. The vocalists are, at left from Pam Edwards, Cody Hensley, Tyler Holtzen, Cy Sammons, Paxton Sherbeyn, Perry Farley and Landry Possin. Photo by Claudia Loucks
Escorts visit with candidates
Music Festival queen candidates Madison Thompson, at left, and Kylie Maertens, visit with pageant escorts Hayden Moore, second from left, and Sam Mosbarger. Photo by Claudia Loucks
Emcees with Ashley’s daughter Tille
Music Festival Pageant co- emcees Ashley Moore, left, and Mariah Hutchinson pose for a photo with Moore’s daughter, Tille Moore, prior to the pageant festivities June 14 in City Park. Photo by Claudia Loucks
By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
Members and guests of the Geneseo Garden Club will meet at 1 p.m. at 1 p.m. on Monday, June 17, at Hornbaker Gardens, 22937 1140 North Ave., Princeton.
Hornbaker Gardens was established in 1987 as a destination center tucked among 40 acres of peaceful property. Through the years, it has developed into botanical gardens, an arboretum, selling hundreds of plants along with containers and other garden items. Visitors can spend their time walking through the gardens and viewing the large variety of hostas, daylilies, fairy gardens and more. Contributed Photo
By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
Winners in the Youth Excellence division of the second annual Geneseo Fine Arts Exhibit sponsored by RutabagA Studio and Gallery in downtown Geneseo are, from left, Pauline Pustejovsky, third place with her watercolor “Song in Bloom;” Madison Reade, first place with her acrylic of “Le Plat Naturel;” and Christine Pustejovsky with her Chinese Ink “A Smug Kitten.”
Sharon Michaelsen, at right, was awarded Best of Show with her pastel titled “Kyle;” Marcia Fox won second place with her carved and painted wood titled “Red Fox in Fall Colors:” and Gloria Burlingame, center, won third place with her oil pastel, “The Farmer’s Wife.” The exhibit will be on display during regular RutabagA gallery hours, from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Thursday through Sunday, and during open hours at The Cellar, 5 to 9 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday, through Sunday, July 7. Unless a piece is market NFS (Not For Sale), all are for sale and all sales go directly to the artist. RutabagA retains no commission.
The Pustejovsky family took three awards at RutabagA’s Second Fine Arts Exhibit judging which was held Sunday, June 9, at The Cellar, and the Pustejovsky family includes, from left, Pauline Pustejovsky, Joseph Pustejovsky won Honorable Mention for his photo of “Water in the Desert;” and Christine Pustejovsky. The exhibit was open to all area artists, high school age and older. The judge for the event is Annette Lezotte, who teaches art at Black Hawk College, Moline.
Lexi Gordon is photographed with her winning 3-D entry, “Atomic Sculpture.”
Pat Halverson, left, received Honorable Mention 2 in the Fine Arts Exhibit for her oil painting, “A Quiet Pond;” and Kathy Williams is shown with her winning photography entry “Daddy/Daughter Dance,” Maharah Jones received Honorable Mention 3 for her acrylic entry, “Red Tulips,” but was not present for the photo.
By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
Hanna Stroud entered the Geneseo Music Festival Queen Pageant to carry on a family tradition.
She was crowned queen of the 2023 pageant held last June in City Park, a title her mother, Sara (Terronez) Stroud, also won when she graduated from GHS in 1995.
The pageant is sponsored each year by Geneseo Rotary Club and is open to graduating GHS senior girls.
Hanna Stroud, daughter of Brian and Sara Stroud, was crowned queen of the 2023 Geneseo Music Festival Queen Pageant. This year’s pageant is at 7 p.m. on Friday, June 14, in Geneseo City Park. Photo by Claudia Loucks
Hanna said her initial reason for entering the pageant last year was “because my mother did it when she was in high school and won. I wanted to keep the tradition of at least participating in the pageant and I ended up winning which was pretty special.”
Another reason she shared was because “it seemed like a fun opportunity to possibly get some money for college and a great way to become involved in the community.”
She admitted that prior to pageant night, she was a bit hesitant…”I am an introvert and had never done a pageant before. I was convinced to do the pageant last year and I am so thankful. It not only made me realize that I should do things outside of my comfort zone, but also that I don’t have to have had experience or be super outgoing to participate. Everyone was super supportive of all of the girls and the whole weekend was so exciting!”
When asked about her thoughts and memories of last year’s event, Stroud said, “The experience as a whole was amazing. It sparked connections with people that I hadn’t talked to in a while and I even met new people.”
She shared memories of pageant night and said she was “full of emotions. There was nervousness, excitement, and happiness all at the same time. When we walked out on stage for the first time and I saw everyone watching, it felt surreal. I knew that everyone was there to support me, but it can be hard to get up in front of people and be vulnerable about yourself, but it was totally worth it.”
She said she “loved every second of it and the emotions are what makes it even more fun. It also is good practice for other scenarios in life like job interviews or presenting at a press conference. It relates to other aspects of the life and that is another bonus!”
The queen and court make appearances at other events during the Music Festival weekend spending time with people in the community and visiting with them…”The City Park was filled with vendors, pop-up tents and so much to see,” Stroud recalled.
Many small businesses owners also are in the park offering food items and there is live music. Stroud said,”Seeing people gathering at the different activities was refreshing when we know how busy life can get. The Music Festival weekend is now one of my favorites in Geneseo!”
Stroud was a student at the University of Iowa in the last school year and she said, "I loved it! I joined a couple of clubs and made new friends. I love Iowa City itself and definitely will be visiting there next year.”
She is transferring to Black Hawk College to study nursing and she said, “I could not be more excited for this year and I can’t wait to see what God has in store.”
