Jordan Rahn Forever Young Run in 2024 - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Race information: Jordan Rahn Forever Young Run – Saturday, Aug. 24, 5 K at 8 a.m. and one-mile run/walk at 9 a.m.
Where: Veterans Memorial Park, Atkinson.
Registration: Online at www.jordanrahnforeveryoungrun.org
Katie VanAntwerp is race director, and can be contacted at ktvanantwerp@gmail.com.

Lola and Ryan Rahn, Atkinson, stand by the kayak to be awarded to a participant in the 2024 Jordan Rahn Forever Young Run on Saturday, Aug. 24. The 10th annual event is in memory of their son who died in 2013.

The Jordan Rahn Forever Young Run continues to be a celebration of life in memory of Jordan Rahn, son of Ryan and Lola Rahn of Atkinson, and a means to help children in foster care.

The annual event is a result of the tragedy that claimed the young life of Jordan Rahn, who died unexpectedly in October of 2013, at the age of 19 while playing football with friends.

Proceeds from the upcoming 10th annual Run, in memory of the Rahn’s son, will be used to benefit children in foster care, including Foster Hope, which was founded by the Rahn couple in April of 2017. The race was not held in 2020 which makes 2024 the 10th year for the JRFYR.

Katie VanAntwerp, race director, said, “Because we did not have a race in 2020, this makes this year’s race our 10th event and we are hoping that this will be the biggest celebration yet.”

Registration is underway for this year’s Jordan Rahn Forever Young Run which is Saturday, Aug. 24, and Tuesday, Aug. 13, is the last day to register at the lower rate, and the last day to receive a T-shirt with registration. The 5K Race will begin at 8 a.m. and the one mile race kicks off at 9 a.m., both from Veterans Memorial Park in Atkinson.

Prizes include:

-5K Overall Male/Female winners will receive $100 cash.

-One Mile Overall Atkinson Resident Male/Female winners will receive $50 Village of Atkinson gift certificates.

Again this year, a race participant who is 18 years of age or older, will be given the choice of a kayak or $300 cash. There also will be bikes awarded to one boy and one girl who participate in the Run and are 12 years old or younger. A Fit Bit will be awarded to a participant who is 13 to 17 years old. The prizes will be awarded in random drawings and winners must be present to win the prizes.

Activities are planned in Veterans Park after the race. There will be a Post Race Party and Beer Tent in Veterans Park

-Margaritas will be available to purchase for adults 21 years of age and older.

-Live music by Shaun Easton from 8 a.m. to 12 noon.

-Live music by John Heasly from 12 noon to 2 p.m.

-Free kids’ games from 10 a.m. to noon.

-Gaga Ball

-Emily’s Face Painting from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

-Kid’s Inflatables from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

-FOAM Party for kids from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

-Emily’s Face Painting from 9:30 to 12:30 p.m.

-Sol’s Legacy Ministries minis from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

-Miller’s Petting Zoo from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

-Tiny Tail Exotics form 10 a.m. to noon.

-QCCAN Therapy Dogs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

-Tropical Sno Cambridge from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

-Atkinson Booster Club Cookout opens at 10 a.m.

-Fuego Taco from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. or until sold out.

-Sourdough BAE Booth.

All proceeds benefit children in foster care through Foster Hope.

As a result of that first race, Lola Rahn was able to connect with several foster care parents and she and her husband started a foster parent support group, Foster Hope that meets in Foster Hope offices located in the former Atkinson Grade School, 107 South State St. The couple also hosts several appreciation events for foster families.

Foster Hope is a 501-c3 non-profit organization and Rahn said, “Our mission is to educate, inspire and support the foster care community. Educate by providing a place for foster parent trainings, including CPR classes; Inspire by providing a place for our support group meetings; support by being able to meet the immediate needs of a foster family after they receive a child in their home such as providing them with diapers, clothes, cribs and other necessary items.”

More information about Foster Hope is available on Face book page at Foster Hope-Quad Cities Area.

Geneseo Public Library District EVENT CANCELLED

The Lucille Ball presentation, scheduled for 2 p.m. on Wednesday, July 31, at the Geneseo Public Library, has been cancelled due to the presenter's illness.

They Choose Your Nursing Home - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

84 Charing Cross Road

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

Geneseo Ikes “Fish Fry”

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

Stoolball

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

Olympics, Sure Beats Politics

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

Slow With TV Messages

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

Yeah, I Needed A New Bumper

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

Gnats are a Pain

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

Humor For Seniors

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

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

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

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

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

Quote of the Week

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

• Will Carleton

Sugar Maple Ladies Host Golf Outing - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Forty-two golfers from four area golf clubs, representing 14 area communities, took part in the recent Golf Outing hosted by the Sugar Maple Ladies Golf League. The event was held at Sugar Maple Golf Club, Geneseo, on July 15, a day referred to by many of the ladies as “the hottest, most humid day of summer.”

A total of $2,354 was presented to the Trinity Health Foundation, which is part of the Ladies League’s five-year pledge of $7,500, to “Swing Fore the Cure.”

According to Jean Hahn, who served as co-chairperson of the recent event with Nancy Stover, the funds raised locally will be used to purchase a named infusion chair for the expansion of the Trinity Cancer Center in the Quad Cities, which is designed to make cancer treatments more available locally.

This year’s theme for the outing was “Butterflies and Birdies” – Butterflies symbolize hope.

Cancer survivors who took part in the recent outing hosted by the Sugar Maple Ladies Golf League include from left, Carol Brunner, Barb Specht, Vicki McVietty, Sheila Cromien, Kathryn White, Carole Flowers, Sharon Yoder, Donna Gradert. Phyllis Heckman and Vickie Farrell also are survivors, but are not in the photo. Contributed Photo

In addition to the golf outing, 10 of the golfers, who are cancer survivors, received special recognition. Fused glass butterfly plant stakes were created by 10 members of the Sugar Maple Ladies, under the direction of local glass artist Marie Skiles, and those stakes were presented to the 10 cancer survivors.

Karen Taylor of Sheffield received a prize for the lowest score, one over part; Vickie Farrell, Libby Trego and Jan VanKerrebroeck also were recognized for earning Birdies during the golf round. Winners of special events during the round received hand-made potted plant motif kitchen towels.

The outing included nine holes of golf, a salad luncheon provided by members of the Sugar Maple Ladies Golf League, and an array of gifts given by members and businesses and gift certificates donated by local businesses.

Hahn expressed appreciation to the businesses and listed them: Sugar Maple Golf Club, Trinity Health Foundation, Country View Golf Club, Baker Park Golf Course, BEMER Health & Wellness -Julie Thiel, Kent Johnson (manager GEN-AIR, INC.), Village Florist, Village Home Stores, Pampered Chef (Beth Ford Consultant), Geneseo Chamber of Commerce, Cerno’s Bar & Grill, Culver’s, The Cellar, Dairy Queen, Geneseo Fareway, Four Seasons, State Street Café, Sunrise Café, Wal-Mart.

“It was a very successful event,” she said. “Special thanks to all who had a part in our Outing: Sugar Maple Golf Course, Sugar Maple Ladies League members, employees of Sugar Maple, and the Bag Boys (husbands and other men) who handled clubs and food for our members and guests.”

The special event prize winners at the “Swing FORE the Cure” golf outing hosted by the Sugar Maple Ladies Golf League are, from left, Pat Warren, Sonja Everett, Carole Flowers, Karen Taylor, Joan Windisch and Erna Miller. Contributed Photo

Henry County Democrats Ice Cream Social is Aug. 13

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Jesse Crouch, left; JoAnne Hillman, and Guy Gibson will be helping serve at the Henry County Democrats ice cream social from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 13 in Geneseo City Park. Music will be provided by John Puentes and Mike Prenevost (In-A- Gadda- Da-Vita). In addition to music, the event will include pulled pork sandwiches, hot dogs, chips, ice cream and desserts. Hillman said, “Everyone is welcome, whether they are Democrat, Republican, Independent or undecided. We want Henry County to show Springfield that we can all come together for some music, food and fun and get along.” There will be a “Meet the Candidates” introduction of those people seeking election to the Henry County Board. They are Jim Dooley, Guy Gibson, Terry McDowell, Steve Mizen and Bill Preston.

Jump Rope Event Saturday to Benefit Operation Christmas Child

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Shelly Emerick, left, a member of the Operation Christmas Child Church Relations Committee; and Shawn King, director of Children’s Ministry at Geneseo First Methodist Church, are inviting area residents to join them in a Jump Rope Event to benefit Operation Christmas Child. The event is from 10 a.m. to 12 noon on Saturday in the Fellowship Hall of Geneseo First Methodist, 302 North State St.

The event is open to the community and children in fifth grade and younger should be accompanied by an adult. For more information, contact Shawn King at s.king@peopleneedjesus.org.

Those attending will be helping to turn T-shirts into usable jump ropes that will be packed into shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child. It takes three T-shirts to make a jump rope and donations of gently used T-shirts will be accepted, providing they are clean.

The goal for the local outreach is to make 1,000 jump ropes.

Operation Christmas Child is an outreach of Samaritan Purse, an international Christian relief and evangelism organization. The non-profit organization specializes in meeting the critical needs of victims of war, poverty, disease and natural disaster, in order to demonstrate God’s love and share the Gospel.

The OCC ministry uses the shoebox as a tool to open the door for the Gospel and make disciples of all tribes, tongues and nations. OCC started in the United Kingdom in 1990 as an outreach to Romanian Orphans and OCC began in North America in 1993.

Emerick said more than 11,330,126 shoeboxes were filled in the United States in 2023.

Kathleen Repass Shares Her Journey of Donating a Gift of Life - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

There wasn’t a family member or a friend who was in need of a kidney, but that didn’t make any difference to Kathleen Repass of Geneseo. She chose to donate one of her kidneys as a result of listening to a podcast and little hints from God.

That decision was no surprise to those who know the kind and generous Kathleen.

Her story begins with information from the podcast…”I had listened to a podcast called Freakonomics Radio,” she said. “Episode 209 was titled Make Me a Match. It focused on the number of people on the waiting list for a kidney match, (100,000 people in the United States) and the astronomical cost to individuals and the health care system of being on dialysis for continued years.”

She learned that most people are born with two kidneys, “and if we are generally healthy, we only need one,” she said. “Even one healthy kidney is usually not working at full capacity.”

After listening to the podcast, she became more aware of the word “kidney,” she said. “I saw billboards asking for a kidney, I heard of friends and acquaintances with kidney issues and diseases.”

She saw informational advertisements explaining the need for kidney donors…”I prayed every day about the information that I was receiving. Every time I dropped the idea, God sent another hint or message to me about the possibility of donating.”

Once she decided to move forward with the process, each of the required steps moved very quickly and efficiently.

It was July of 2023 when Repass began the process with a health questionnaire through the National Kidney Registry (https://kidneyregistry.org).

“The National Kidney Foundation (https://kidney.org) and the National Kidney Donor Organization (https://nkdo.org) had a wealth of information from every perspective of the process,” she said.

After submitting a blood and urine sample, a series of telephone interviews to explain the process began and the calls also allowed an opportunity for Repass to ask questions.

“The process was very efficient and at each step of the way, I was approved for the next step,” she shared.

In early November of last year, Repass went to Mayo Clinic where she underwent two full days of physical and mental tests and consultations. She was then approved for a donation.

Her kidney availability was submitted to the National Kidney Registry to look for a match.

She explained that was done through a data base that was able to match the traits of her kidney down to genetic markers, antigens, blood type, etc.

“Within a few hours a suitable recipient was identified,” she said.

The procedure was scheduled for January 10 of this year. Repass and her sister traveled to Rochester and stayed in an Airbnb.

The actual procedure took a short time and Repass was in the hospital at 6 a.m. on Jan. 10 and released after lunch the next day, Jan. 11.

She added, “We enjoyed several days together in Rochester. We left to drive home during a brutal blizzard and road conditions of January 12-13. The drive home was the scariest part of the donation process.”

When asked about her emotions before and after donating her kidney, Repass said, “I was just excited and humbled by the fact that I was healthy enough to offer my kidney to someone else. I was fascinated with the process and the skills and research of the health care system to offer this as an effective alternative to people who are in need of a kidney.”

She said she felt “great,” after the surgery and had the usual post-surgery restrictions of not lifting more than 10 pounds for six weeks, and eating well and drinking an abundant amount of fluids.”

The Mayo Clinic checked on her frequently by phone to make sure she was healing, both physically and emotionally.

“I donated on a Wednesday, and took my first walk the following Sunday,” she said. ‘The next Wednesday, I returned to my exercise class, Summit for Adults, held at the Geneseo High School Athletic Facility. I did very light movements and exercise, but it was important for me to get back into the routine, and be with my workout friends.”

When asked if she knew who received her kidney, Repass said, “A man from Pennsylvania, named Michael. He had suffered from polycystic kidney disease for decades, and had been on dialysis for years. I received one letter from him telling me that my kidney had begun to work in his body almost immediately. The day after surgery, he had more energy than he had felt in years. We shared our stories of praying for each other.”

Repass was a “non-directed donor” which meant she did not have a family member or friend who was in need of a kidney…”I am O+ blood type and that is a factor for donor kidneys,”: she explained, and added, “I did not have the option to make any requirements of the recipient.”

She explained that being a non-directed donor often enables a chain of donations to occur, because a person who needs a kidney, but does not have a “matched” donor, can receive a kidney that is placed in the “pool” and then their own willing family or friend is encouraged to still donate a kidney to another person.

Her advice to anyone who is considering donating a kidney, “Absolutely talk to someone who has been a donor, go to the kidney websites for more information, and talk to your family and friends. There are many safeguards built into the process in the event that I or a family member needs a kidney in the future.”

There is no cost to a donor for any of the tests or procedures.

“The peace and joy that I have felt since this journey began is incredible, and have made me a more grateful person,” she said.

Geneseo Kiwanis Club Donates to Girl Scouts

The Geneseo Kiwanis Club made a special donation to Girl Scout Service Unit 886 for expenses at their summer Day Camp.  Through this donation, girls have the opportunity to experience the outdoors with hands-on activities like cooking, nature exploration, fishing, kayaking, and much more.  All Girl Scouts want to extend our appreciation for all the Geneseo Kiwanis Club members do to raise funds and support the youth in our community.

Derecho's Affect All of Us - By Curt Jacobs

By Curt Jacobs
Correspondent

Until recently, the term derecho was new to most of us.  The National Weather Service gives the description of a Derecho as a widespread, long-lived wind storm. Derechos are associated with bands of rapidly moving showers or thunderstorms. They have some additional requirements including  a swath of wind damage that extends at least 400 miles,and is at least 60 miles  wide, includes wind gusts of at least 58 mph along most of its length, and also includes several, well-separated 75 mph or greater gusts. The majority of  these storms are found in North America.

The first of these storms to be identified as a derecho was documented in 1877. It traveled from South Dakota to Ohio. Derechos on average occur once every 2 years in Iowa and on average once per year in Illinois. The storm that crossed Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, and Indiana generated hundreds of wind damage reports. Those reports ranged from tree, powerline, structural and crop damages, along with several confirmed tornadoes. In parts of southern Illinois and southern Indiana they were hit twice. Once from the remnants of hurricane Beryl and also the derecho.   

Photo by Curt Jacobs

Several types of crop diseases can be the result of a derecho. Physical damage can range from broken off plants to wind damaged leaves. These leaves become susceptible to fungal pathogens such as leaf blights and could lead to root rot.  Soil erosion and wind can carry spores of pathogens into new areas and create new infections of plants. The timing of the storm can greatly affect the crop, especially during the pollination of corn leading to poor pollination and reduced crops. These are just some of the possible outcomes from a major storm event. 

The derecho in August of 2020 damaged approximately 14 million acres of crops. Total economic losses to agriculture were estimated at $3.8 Billion. It is too soon to estimate the damage that this storm has caused.  It will take months to realize all the damage that has happened.  If you see someone that is cleaning up storm damage, take some time and help out if you are able too. You never know when you may be the next person that needs a little extra help. 

Lucille Ball Presentation July 31 at Geneseo Library - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Leslie Goddard, a gifted, award-winning historian, author, actress and lecturer who has been presenting on topics in American History and women’s history for more than 20 years will be making her debut presentation as Lucille Ball at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, July 31, at the Geneseo Public Library. The presentation is free and open to the public.

Lucille Desiree Ball was an American actress, comedian, producer, and studio executive, and was recognized by Time as one of the most influential women of the 20th century for her work in all four of these areas.

Contributed Photo

In the 1950’s, she captured the hearts of television audiences across the nation. Off-screen, she and her real-life husband launched their own television studio and pioneered new technologies. Unbeknownst to her viewers, however, the day-to-day struggles of living your life on TV took a toll on the couple’s marriage.

A former museum director, Leslie Goddard holds a PhD from Northwestern University as well as master’s degrees in museum study and in theater.

She is known nationally for her work in bringing women’s history alive through her portrayal of famous women such as Eleanor Roosevelt, Jackie Kennedy, artist Georgia O’Keefe, actress Bette Davis, and Chef Julie Child and others. She also has portrayed Betty Crocker, lectured on the history of the Barbie doll and on the life of airline stewardesses in the 1960’s in her portrayal as “Pan Am Betty.”

Goddard presents more than 400 performances and lectures each year to public libraries, professional associations and colleges/universities. She has served on the board of the Illinois State Historical Society, the Illinois Association of Museums and the Civil War Round Table of Chicago.

She is the author of three books on Chicago history: “Remembering Marshall Field’s,” “Lost Chicago Department Stores,” and “Chicago’s Sweet Candy History.”

Contributed Photo

International Thanksgiving Fellowship Program July 23 Ice Cream Social - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Andrea Hogue, left, and Margaret Hitzhusen, board members of the Geneseo International Thanksgiving Fellowship Program, are in charge of the July 23 Ice Cream Social at Geneseo City Park.
Desserts and ice cream will be served, beginning at 6 p.m., with music by the QC’s Big

River Brass Band beginning at 7 p.m.

Dessert donations are needed for the ice cream social and anyone interested in donating a baked item or in making a monetary donation is asked to contact Hogue at 309-945-2537

The 40-member BRBB plays in the style of European brass bands and draws literature from classic crass band repertoire, and classical, jazz and pop arrangements.

Since 1960 the Geneseo International Thanksgiving Fellowship Program has arranged home stays and professional educational appointments in the Geneseo and surrounding areas, including the Quad Cities, for short term international visitors and students. The GITFP board also works with International House in Chicago to arrange for interested guests and pairs them with hosts in our communities.

The Geneseo International Thanksgiving Fellowship Program returned last year with 10 guests, after a three-year hiatus as a result of the pandemic.

There is a need for host families for Nov. 27-Dec. 1 of this year. Questions and application information is available from Marcia Helke at 309-944-4486 or at gitfp60@gmail.com.

Andrea Hogue shared some comments about her family’s experience in hosting with the program and she said, “In our experience in the four times hosting, our family has made bonds that have lasted years with German, Chinese and Japanese students and young professionals. We hear from them regularly. It helped my kids understand the world is bigger than just us in our community.”

Margaret Hitzhusen added, “It gives us an opportunity to learn about other cultures and to showcase our wonderful community.”

Galaxy Vacation Trip - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

Long Range

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

License Renewal

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

Galaxy Vacation Trip

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

Geneseo Ikes Fish Fry

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

Geneseo Ikes “Ham ‘n Bean Supper”

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

Bad Fall

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

Civil War

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

Humor

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

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

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

4) Yesterday a bird bit me. “Owl.”

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

Quote of the Week

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

• Jacqueline Kennedy

Blue Stars DCI Come to Geneseo

By Elizabeth Hulsbrink
Geneseo Current

Strolling down Ogden Street on a clear Thursday morning, the sound of the loudest metronome could be heard blaring over the Geneseo High School football stadium speakers, while the hum of five charter busses, four semi-trucks, and about 120 marching band members took to the field for practice. But these were no ordinary marching band members… these were the Blue Stars Drum & Bugle Corps from La Crosse, Wisconsin.

Celebrating their 60th anniversary, the 2024 Blue Stars presented Universal, a program which beautifully contrasts the universal language of love with a depiction of the cosmos. Brass, percussion, color guard, and visual elements all take the audience out of the stands and into space. Musical selections in this program include excerpts from Steven Wilson (The Harmony Codex), Yoko Kanno (Inner Universe), Juris Karlsons (Oremus and Adoratio), Tomas Kaco (Nocturne), Hoagy Carmichael (Stardust), Sza (Saturn), Kendrick Lamar (All the Stars), Ultravox (I Remember), and Coldplay (Yellow).

This year’s corps is made up of students aged 16-21 from all around the United States. The audition- based group relies on donations and scholarships in order to travel the country for rehearsals, shows, and competitions, from Wisconsin to Texas and everything in between. They are currently in the top 12 in DCI and are award-winning World Class Champions.

On Friday, July 12 from 12:30-3:30 Blue Stars held clinics with the Geneseo High School marching band, The Sound of Geneseo (TSOG). Then after a quick competition elsewhere, the full group returned to GHS for a 9:30pm final run-through of their entire show. It was out of this world!

For more information about the Blue Stars, visit their website at bluestars.org.

Geneseo Historical Museum to Note 50th Anniversary at Garden Party - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Area residents are invited to a Garden Party to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Geneseo Historical Museum. The party will be from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 10, in the memorial gardens of the museum at 205 South State St., Geneseo.

Light refreshments will be served.

Melanie Rice, curator/director of the Geneseo Historical Museum, will serve as hostess. Rice was named to the post with the retirement of Angie Snook, who was named curator in 1996, but her involvement with the museum’s place in history started nearly 20 years earlier during her time as a volunteer and board member.

In addition to the Garden Party, the museum currently is featuring an exhibit of wedding dresses from the last century.

Rice said there are 103 wedding dresses in the exhibit which will be displayed at the museum through Aug. 31.

The museum is open to visitors from 10 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, or by appointment by calling 309-944-3043.

Information about the GHM from 2010 records state that the history of the museum dates back to 1972 when the Geneseo Historical Association's first museum consisted of two rooms in the caretaker’s home at Richmond Hill Park. Interest in the project was widespread and donations and membership grew quickly.

Vast amounts of memorabilia and artifacts came pouring through the doors. By 1976, the museum’s rooms were bursting at the seams and it was apparent the museum needed a new home.

Fortunately, the Geneseo Public Library (on State St.) had just moved into a new location and made the historic Hammond Library, built in 1898, available to the Historical Association as a permanent museum and it remained in that location for the next 20 years.

The story began to change in 1996 when once again, the museum was full and the association’s board became concerned about the future of the lease arrangement they had enjoyed with the library. An effort was launched to explore alternatives.

Once again, fortune smiled in the form of another building which was just coming on the market – a huge, Italianate structure almost directly across from the street of the location of their location. Not only was it much larger, but it also was of historical importance. The first of its bricks had been laid in 1855, just 20 years after the arrival of Geneseo’s first settlers. What had been, since the days of the Civil War, two joined homes were divided into four apartments early in the 1900’s. With 27 rooms and 9,000 square feet of usable space, this handsome mansion could easily display the museum’s existing treasures, with room to spare for an expanded office, storage and other amenities.

The memorial gardens at the rear of the Geneseo Historical Museum will be the setting for the upcoming Garden Party to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the museum. (Photo By Claudia Loucks)

History notes have it that “the structure and appointments (some of them original) were all in excellent repair.”

A TIMELINE – “RICHARDS – THEDE HOUSE’ – “THE GENESEO HISTORICAL MUSEUM”

-The north home (of what is currently the GHM) was built in 1855 by George Richards and Ann Cora Gilmore Richards. Mr. Richards served as president of the city board 1861-62 and joined the newly- formed Presbyterian Church as a charter member in 1863. They had one daughter, Georgian. George Richards was born in Vermont and listed in 1840 as one of Genesee’s early settlers. They were also part of the group of abolitionists to form the colony. The home was on the Freedom Trail for run-away slaves, and a hiding hole is still displayed in the basement of the home.

-Second home built around 1867 by two brothers – Hiram and George Wilson who were born in New York. At the time they were both associated with the First National Bank of Geneseo. George and his wife occasionally gave memorable social affairs, such as their daughter Emma’s wedding reception.

-James McBroom, another well-known businessman, was the next owner from 1921-1957. During this time period the home became four (later five) apartments.

-In 1957, Phyllis Gates, a nurse for Dr. Young bought the home. She saw that the “McBroom” home was lovingly cared for. Even with it being apartments, she maintained the grand interior and the home’s integrity. Its garden area was a show place. Mrs. Rosalie Thede inherited the beautiful home form her mother. She remained the owner until Nov. 1, 1996, when the Geneseo Historical Association purchased the home for the present museum.

-June 1, 1998, the museum opened its doors to the public.

-In 2009, a special addition to the museum was built for meetings, programs and children and adult classes. In April of 2010, the new “Stees-Keppy Education Addition” opened.

-In Oct. 2012, the “carriage house” project was started on the Center St. museum complex and it opened in July of 2013. The educational building for both young and old exhibits old carriages and sleights, Dan Patch horse racing memorabilia, Hennepin Canal racing boats, early agricultural tools and equipment, Native American displays and the children’s log cabin.

-The three-level carriage house opened its doors to the public in October of 2013.

Even though she will not be at the museum on a daily basis, the popularity of the programs she began while serving as curator will continue with programs she has scheduled for the next two years.

Snook was named curator in 1996, but her involvement with the museum’s place in history started nearly 20 years earlier during her time as a volunteer and board member.

She was instrumental in the purchase of the Italianate house for the museum, which had been located in the original Geneseo Public Library building on State St.

“As president of the Geneseo Historical Museum, I knew that house would be the perfect setting for the new museum,” she said.

The museum board submitted a bid to purchase the home and when that bid was opened by Rosalie Thede, owner of the home, Snook recalled Thede said, ‘That is what my mother always wanted.’”

In November of 1996 the Thede home became the Geneseo Historical Museum’s permanent home.

“We were working on a fund to pay for the new museum,” Snook said. “Don Stocks was the curator at that time and somehow found a way to save $113,000 during his 25-year tenure. The late Marie Lodge, a museum board member, gave the Historical Association a $100,000 loan “to get the museum up and going,” Snook said.

During the museum’s move from the “old library” to its new home, Stocks became ill and died.

Kelly Wolf Appointed New Henry County Tourism Director

July 12(Cambridge, IL) - The Henry County Tourism Bureau is pleased to announce the appointment of Kelly Wolf as the new Tourism Director. Kelly brings a wealth of experience in tourism and hospitality to the team. We are excited to have her on board and look forward to her contributions in promoting Henry County as a tourist destination.

Kelly, originally from Geneseo, has more than 15 years’ experience, primarily gained in Houston, where she contributed to various aspects of the city's tourism industry. Along with her extensive background, Kelly holds a bachelor's and master's degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Purdue University. In her most recent role as the RISE (Research in Illinois to Spur Economic Recovery) Grant coordinator she developed the 2024 Strategic Tourism Plan for Henry County.

After the Henry County Tourism Bureau became inactive in 2021, the county worked with stakeholders and local government officials to form a new Henry County Tourism Board. The goal was to reintroduce a new Henry County Tourism Bureau that provides a stronger engagement of all tourism related stakeholders in the county. The plan not only aims to take advantage of the existing resources and attractions, but to also explore new opportunities for growth and to attract a larger number of visitors.

"We're excited to have Kelly on board," said Tourism Bureau Chair Gary Bradley, adding "she did a tremendous job of working with the bureau to put together the tourism plan, and we think she'll do an even better job of implementing that plan over the next few years, helping each community and Henry County in our efforts to maximize the economic impact the tourism sector can have on our local communities. "

Kelly will collaborate closely with partners from the Henry County Tourism Bureau, the Henry County Economic Development Director, and neighboring tourism communities.

"It's a great privilege to be able to contribute to Henry County's tourism efforts. Having grown up here, I'm excited to bring back the knowledge and experience I've gained to support the community's growth."

Kelly said, "I'm looking forward to collaborating with colleagues and partners across the county and surrounding areas to further enhance Henry County's tourism landscape."

The Tourism Bureau is excited to see where Kelly will lead the organization and looks forward to the positive impact she will have on our region.

Kelly Wolf. Photo Submitted

Taylor Zvonic Receives Park District RESPECT Award - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Taylor Zvonic, Day Camp Manager for the Geneseo Park District, recently received the District’s RESPECT Award:

-R – Recreational, Health & Wellness Opportunities.

-E – Excellence.

-S – Safety.

-P-Positivity.

-Equitable – Creating an environment of inclusion for the whole community.

-C – Communication.

-T – Teamwork.

The letter of nomination for Zvonic, written by Nathaniel Hines, Recreation Program Manager for the Park District, states: “As the Day Camp Manager, Taylor has consistently demonstrated qualities that make her an outstanding leader and a true asset to our organization.”

“One of Taylor’s standout qualities is her ability to create a sense of community within the Day Camp. She goes above and beyond to create a welcoming environment where every camper feels valued. Taylor’s dedication to ensuring that each child’s experience is positive and enjoyable speaks to her commitment to the well-being of our campers. When looking at the Day Camp, you would be hard-pressed to find anyone who cares about the institution more, or who has contributed more to it……The experiences that she leads in facilitating clearly have a lasting impact on our campers that will last a lifetime.”

Zvonic is a 2022 graduate of Geneseo High School and will be a junior at Bradley University in Peoria, where she is majoring in Kinesiology and Health Sciences.

Girl Scout Day Camp

Geneseo Girl Scout Service Unit 886 held their annual Girl Scout Day Camp the week of June 24-28, 2024.  The event was held at the Geneseo Cole Cabin and was attended by 97 local Girl Scouts and was made possible by the help of over 40 volunteers. 
Throughout the week, girls took part in outdoor experiences including hiking, crafts, outdoor cooking, traditional Girl Scout skills, songs, games, archery, bike riding, kayaking and fishing (supported by the Geneseo Izaak Walton League chapter).  Through Girl Scouting, and their experiences at day camp, girls grow in their confidence and leadership. 
Many of the girls who now volunteer in High School and college started as young elementary school campers 14 years ago.  Through day camp, girls learn to respect and care for the world around them.  They build lasting friendships and try new adventures.  The week was a huge success, and the girls wish to thank the Geneseo Community Chest and the Geneseo Kiwanis Club for their support of this camp week. 
Girl Scouting doesn't just exist during this one week at camp.  Girl Scouts are active in local Geneseo troops all year long as they learn new skills, give back to our community, and have fun together.  All girls are welcome and we encourage interested girls to join us this next school year!

Village Home Stores Welcomes Former Owner of Appliances Unlimited Kewanee to Sales Team

As Appliances Unlimited in Kewanee Illinois closes doors, former owner Amanda Forrest joins the appliance sales team at another small business just a few miles away.

July 2024(Geneseo, IL) - In the Spring of 2024 it was announced that Appliances Unlimited in Kewanee, Illinois would be closing their doors. A member of the team at Village Home Stores reached out to the owner Amanda Forrest to see if she would have interest in working at an appliance dealer just a few miles down the road. Forrest, who purchased the Kewanee small business 19 years ago, met with the owners of Village Home Stores to discuss this transition. It was agreed that another small business would be a great fit for her and her customer base.

- Amanda can still source quality kitchen and laundry appliances for her Kewanee-area customers at a competitive price while offering a great customer experience.

- She will be able to help customers in-person in an award-winning showroom.

- Amanda will also be available for customers who prefer to shop from home online with added assistance via phone or the Village Home Stores website’s text/webchat feature.

- She will still be able to operate in a sales environment that cares for the purchaser long after the purchase with access to staff service technicians for warranty work and repairs.

“After spending some time at their business, I feel that they are the best option to replace the sales and service that we have offered. They have a beautiful showroom and are dedicated to the industry that I come from with their pricing standpoint, customer service dedication, and all around positive experience.” -Amanda Forrest

Amanda has decades of experience in the sales and service of home appliances. She will begin immersive product training for key Village brands: Maytag, Whirlpool, and KitchenAid mid-July as she visits the World of Whirlpool facilities in Chicago, Illinois and then begin on the Village Home Stores sales floor in Geneseo on August 1st.

Village Home Stores is a second generation small business that has served the region since 1984. They offer appliances, appliance service, cabinetry, countertops, lighting, window treatments, flooring, and wall surfaces as well as complete kitchen and bath remodels. You can see their portfolio of work online at houzz.com/pro/villagehomestores and watch their weekly TV show locally every Sunday morning at 10:30am on WQAD News Channel 8 or stream anytime at youtube.com/villagehomestores Village is open Mon-Fri 9a-5p and Saturdays from 9a-noon. Open online anytime at villagehomestores.com

Amanda Forrest. Photo Submitted

A Pig that Does Karate - By Dan Dauw

Fun time on the Fourth

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

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

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

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

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

Reminder Concert Fans

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

Vintage Farm Equipment Show

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

Humor of Lance & Dan D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quote of the Week

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

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

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