Katie Kutsunis Joins Central Banc, Inc. Board of Directors

John T. DuBois, President & CEO
(309) 944-5601

Geneseo, IL — As of January 1, 2025, Katie Kutsunis has joined the corporate Board of Directors of Central Banc, Inc. Central Banc, Inc. is the holding company of Central Bank Illinois, headquartered in Geneseo, Illinois. It sets the strategic direction and risk management policies for the company within its corporate governance structure.

Katie Kutsunis, a resident of Geneseo, Illinois, is the owner of GWK Enterprises, Inc., a successful chain of six women’s apparel stores called Four Seasons and one gift store called Pegasus Fine Gifts, with the home office located in downtown Geneseo. Her academic credentials include a degree from Augustana College, complemented by her prestigious Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation, underscoring her expertise in financial and business management.

Katie has been an integral part of the Geneseo community through her active involvement in various civic and professional organizations. She has served as the President of the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce in 1998, 2010, and 2024, demonstrating her longstanding dedication to local business development. Additionally, her leadership extended to the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce, where she held the position of President in 2024.

Her remarkable journey in retail and community engagement makes her a perfect fit for the Board, where she will continue to champion retail excellence and foster community relations. John DuBois, President & CEO of Central Bank Illinois., announced the Board appointment, stating, "I am pleased to announce the addition of Katie Kutsunis as a director of Central Banc, Inc., the holding company of Central Bank Illinois.” DuBois continued, “With Katie’s retail and customer/community business focus, we are excited to add her skill set to the Board."

DuBois also announced the retirement of John Greenwood from the Board of Directors of Central Banc, Inc., effective March 31, 2025. “John has served on the Board for over three decades, and his experience and leadership, as the current Board Chairman, will be missed. We thank him for his years of service to the Bank, its shareholders, customers, and staff,” DuBois stated.

Central Bank Illinois is a full-service community bank and financial services provider headquartered in Geneseo, Illinois. Since first opening in 1907, the company has grown to approximately $1.4 billion in assets and expanded to the Illinois communities of Andover, Ashton, Fulton, Oregon, Peru, Princeton, Rochelle, and Sterling, with a limited-purpose branch in Prophetstown.

Member FDIC/Equal Housing Lender/Equal Opportunity Employer

Geneseo Middle School Readers Choose 2025 On the Same Page Community Book Read

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Student readers at Geneseo Middle School have selected the Kate O’Shaughnessy novel “Lasagna Means I Love You” for the 15th On the Same Page Community-Wide Read.

“Lasagna Means I Love You” focuses on a little girl named Mo who ends up in foster care following the death of her grandmother. Mo teaches herself to cook and begins collecting family recipes as she adjusts to her new situation.

Volunteer sixth, seventh, and eighth grade readers select the OSP book each year.

Geneseo Middle School sixth grader Hadley Wyffels shows a copy of “Lasagna Means I Love You, the 15th On the Same Page Community-Wide Read selection.

According to Jeanne Brucher, Geneseo Middle School Librarian, said, “This is a student-led project. Each spring we start with about 20 books, and it takes the student readers until October to narrow to their final selection.”

As a result of the support from the Geneseo Education Foundation, Geneseo Kiwanis, and the GMS Library; there is no cost to participate in the program. Copies of the novel will be available in various locations in the community for community members to take, read, and pass along. Copies may also be picked up at the school office.

Each year, students plan a culminating event to tie to the book. Inspired by the recipes in “Lasagna Means I Love you,” readers are encouraged to participate in two ways. First, GMS students are collecting favorite family recipes for an online cookbook. To see recipes or add you own, click on: https://sites.google.com/geneseoschools.org/gms-osp-fav-fam-recipes/home. OSP will also host a Family Favorites Potluck at GMS from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, April 8, at the Geneseo Middle School. Families are invited to bring a favorite food item to share. The Book Fair also will be open that evening.

For more information about the On the Same Page Program and to watch the student-produced book talk video, visit https://gcsdblogs.org/onthesamepage, or contact program coordinator Brucher at GMS, 309-945-0599.

Links:

On the Same Page Website https://gcsdblogs.org/onthesamepage GMS 2025 OSP Book Talk Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGbOxkMv1nE

The Best Dam Show - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

2025

It sure didn’t start very good with the New Year’s massacre at New Orleans. Just plain senseless. I hope I’m wrong, but let’s pray there are no copy cats out there willing to kill innocent people for some stupid cause.

Go, Bears & Others

Last weekend I was happy to see my favorite sport teams come away with wins. My “Super Bowl” was ‘da Bears beating the Packers. Great game!
So was the Notre Dame women’s basketball team beating North Carolina. They are so awesome. Other fun-to-watch teams were Illinois, Nebraska and Iowa State. All winners in either football or basketball.

Hornpipe Dance

I like to watch military parade marching bands from all over the globe. One that I recently found on the internet was from India. You will see an India Navy band marching and when it stops, about 75 young lady India Sea Cadets do a really neat and nautical performance. I forwarded the video to friend, Tony Petreikis, and he hit the nail-on-the-head.
The music was like that of the old Popeye cartoons. The ladies mimicked many Navy nautical moves like swabbing the decks, etc. Check it out by typing the following: The Hornpipe Dance by Sea Cadets of the Indian Navy 2024 (or 2023, it’s the same routine).

Garrett Petreikis, son of Tony Petreikis, retired local Game Warden, recently caught this northern pike in a Wisconsin lake.  

Speaking of India

One of the foreign students we hosted during the recent Thanksgiving holidays was from India and attending the University of Chicago. She is Mrs. Vartika Singh, 38. She was one very bright young lady. I enjoyed teasing her and she would match my joking. I told her I should say prayers for her poor husband! Anyway, it was nice having her stay with us and also learning more about India.

When I wasn’t Old

When I was a teen, I worked summers pumping gas for pleasure boats at the Rock Island Boat Club. One time I had forgotten my gasoline pump keys. I drove my motor bike (Mo-ped) in a big hurry to get the keys. I switched lanes and a big old Buick hit me from behind. Back then, helmets were rare to be seen. Fortunately, I wasn’t hurt badly and the guy took off.
My poor Mo-ped actually made it home so I got the pump keys and made it back to work. I was very lucky!
You would not believe the drunks that came to the dock. Sometimes they would come in way to fast and scratch the side of their boat. One time a guy fell when he hit the dock. He was so plastered.

Switching gears, remember guys our haircuts back then? The crewcut, mohawk, and flattop were popular. I always got a crewcut at Arnie’s (Anderson) Barber Shop, 2300 block of 5th Avenue in Moline. One time I had a crush on a gal that worked at the LeClaire Hotel in Moline.
I was a substitute letter carrier and the hotel had a mail chute. I had to go inside and empty the mail from the chute. One time I was in a hurry and somehow broke the glass on the inside door. I didn’t get in any trouble. However, one winter I hit a car with my postal vehicle. It was a very minor accident, but I did get my wrists slapped! That was 1961. Oh, one more thing. When I had a mail route in Moline I had to deliver mail in the 5th Avenue Building. I can’t remember exactly how many floors, but I would drop off #3 postal sacks full of mail on various floors as I went to the top floor. Now just think, that would never fly today. It would be so easy to steal mail from the sacks.
The building also had mail chutes and they would often jam from someone pushing bundles of letters in the narrow chutes. Long ago, Moline Postmaster, Wally Babl, and I would have lunch together. Often a waitress, when we were leaving would say, “Thank you, and have a nice day!” Wally would say, “No thank you, I have other plans!” He was funny.

Humor

Don Morrison, North Carolina, is quite the bird guy. A few days ago his obese parrot died. It was a huge weight off his shoulders.

Dale Dobbler, Cambridge, got another deer. Yeah, like he needs another deer head on the wall. Pretty soon he’ll have them mounted on the “outside” of his home. He told me the other day he should invent a beer called, “Occasionally.” So, when asked, Dale can say “I drink occasionally.”

Dale Collis, Galva, went to his doctor. The doctor said, “You have the “Peak A Boo” virus. So, he sent Dale straight to the ICU.

Dale Kiser, Geneseo, recently saw a documentary on beavers. He said it was the best dam show he’d ever seen.

Quote of the Week

“To be prepared for war is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace.”

  • George Washington

Therapy Dog on Staff at Millikin Elementary - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Even though “Bodey” has been at Millikin Elementary School in Geneseo for a short time, his owner, Jennifer Snodgrass, a special education teacher at Millikin, has already seen the benefits of having him in the building.

“Bodey,” a therapy dog who now spends his days at Millikin Elementary in Geneseo when classes are in session, is photographed with students Mia Dyer, Oliver Holeman; and Jennifer Snodgrass, teacher at Millikin and Bodey’s owner; and students Titus Fahner and Trey Dewey.

“Bodey,” a 14-month-old Mini Newfypoo, who makes his home with Jennifer and her husband, Justin, began attending training sessions in February of 2023 at Legacy Therapy Dogs, where he successfully completed both basic and advanced training. He passed the Canine Good Citizen test and continued his education to become a certified therapy dog. After completing his supervised hours in November, “Bodey” began attending Millikin School with Snodgrass shortly after Thanksgiving break.

Snodgrass said “Bodey” has made a positive impact at Millikin “by greeting students in the morning, providing comfort to those feeling anxious or hesitant about entering school. His presence has been particularly helpful in creating a calm atmosphere, reducing stress, and assisting with emotional regulation among students.”

She said “Bodey” also at times has been present in the gym during morning supervision and at recess…”He has helped de-escalate situations and supports students in transitioning back to class.”

Snodgrass is responsible for “Bodey” throughout the school day, as a result of the extensive training that the two with through together….”We do push into classrooms during the day and ‘Bodey’ attends fifth grade math class daily. If a classroom requests ‘Bodey’ for time in the classroom, we make time work in the schedule. He also does many walks through when I pick up kids from classrooms.”

“Bodey” remains at Millikin for either the entire day or for a half-day, and on Tuesdays, he is at school for a half-day, as he has training on Tuesday nights and Snodgrass added, “So he isn’t too tired for training.”

Throughout the school day, “Bodey” has assisted students needing mental breaks, and has even served as a patient listener during story time, Snodgrass added…”His calming presence has not only been a benefit to the students, but also has had a positive impact on staff. Watching a once-apprehensive child smile while walking ‘Bodey’ down the hall or seeing a distressed student quickly become calm in his presence has been incredibly rewarding.”

It was a friend who inspired Snodgrass to have “Bodey” go through training to become a therapy dog…”A good friend of mine who is a school counselor has a therapy dog in the Chicago land area,” she explained. “She inspired me to have ‘Bodey’ go through the training to become a therapy dog as well.”

She added, “I also see the emotions of many children at school on a daily basis that can be just a little sadness or unsettled to big emotions to where students need to take a break from the classroom setting…I could see how a therapy dog could be beneficial at our school setting.”

“Bodey” has made a significant difference at Millikin, Snodgrass said, and added that she looks forward to seeing how he continues to help students “regulate their emotions and succeed in school.”

Winter on the Farm: What Farmers Do When the Fields are Quiet?

By Curt Jacobs
Geneseo Current

When the last leaf falls, and the fields turn barren, it's easy to assume that farmers just rest for the winter. After all, the growing season has ended and harvest has been completed. But if you think the work stops there, think again.

For farmers, winter isn't a time for hibernation. It’s a crucial season that comes with its own set of responsibilities. Whether they’re in charge of raising livestock, growing crops, or managing equipment, farmers stay busy throughout the colder months.

Livestock Care

During the colder months, livestock require more attention. Farmers check that barns and pens are insulated and safe from the cold. Water troughs need remain thawed, and hay or grain must be provided in higher quantities, as animals burn more calories staying warm.

Veterinary care is also more frequent during winter, as cold weather can lead to health issues for animals, such as respiratory problems or infections. Farmers keep an eye out for any signs of illness and take the necessary steps to care for their animals before problems arise.

Equipment Maintenance

Winter weather allows farmers take advantage of the seasonal slowdown to perform maintenance on equipment. Tractors, combines, and other machinery need to be cleaned, serviced, and repaired, ensuring they're ready to go once planting season rolls around.

For farmers, equipment is an investment, and keeping it running smoothly year-round helps prevent costly repairs in the spring, when time is of the essence. This also includes inspecting fences, irrigation systems, and other infrastructure. Which all may need attention before the next growing season.

Planning and Paperwork

Winter is when farmers turn their attention to planning for the year ahead. With the growing season months away, we take time to map out crop rotations, select seed varieties, and prepare for planting. This is also a period of reflection, as farmers review the previous year's challenges and successes to make informed decisions for the future.

Every winter is a busy time for paperwork. Farmers manage a variety of tasks, including securing loans or grants, reviewing financial records, planning budgets, and organizing tax documents. With so many factors to consider, winter planning and paperwork are essential for keeping a farm running smoothly and efficiently.

Community Involvement

The downtime between fall and spring gives us a chance to get involved. Many farmers attend agricultural conferences, workshops, and networking events to stay updated on trends and new technology in the industry. These gatherings are a valuable way to share tips, discuss challenges, and learn from others in the field. 

Marketing Grain

While the crops are harvested in the fall, the sale of grain often continues through the winter months. Farmers must stay informed about market trends and commodity prices to decide when and where to sell their grain for the best price. This could mean working with local elevators, brokers, or even selling directly to mills and processors. Many farmers also use contracts to lock in prices ahead of time, offering a bit of financial security.

The winter months provide the opportunity to analyze the previous year’s market performance, plan for future sales, and make strategic decisions to ensure they maximize the value of their crops. This requires a good understanding of supply and demand as prices can fluctuate based on global factors like weather events, international trade, and crop yields in other parts of the world.

While the winter months may appear quieter on the surface, farmers are far from idle. From animal care to machinery maintenance, strategic planning, and community involvement, there’s always something to keep them occupied. Their hard work during the winter ensures that when the warmer months return, they’re prepared for the next growing season—and for all the challenges it may bring. So, the next time you see a field covered in snow, remember that behind the scenes, farmers are still working hard to keep our food system strong and sustainable.

Hines Named Park District Recreation Program Specialist

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Nathaniel Hines has been named full-time Recreation Program Specialist for the Geneseo Park District.

Hines has been employed by the Park District since May of 2015, starting work in the concession stand and then expanding his role to include lifeguarding, swim instruction, desk attendant, building supervisor and working in special events, general programs, and countless other areas over the years.

He is a graduate of Western Illinois University, Macomb, where he earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Recreation, Park, and Tourism Administration, with a minor in Human Resource Management.

In his new role as Recreation Program Specialist, Hines will oversee the planning, implementation, and supervision of a broad range of recreational activities and events. His primary working hours will be in the afternoons and evenings, with variations based on program needs.

A statement from the Park District said, “With his diverse experiences and educational background, Nathaniel is uniquely qualified to enhance and expand the recreation programming for our community.”

Geneseo Community Chest Distributes Funds - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Just over $90,000 was collected by the Geneseo Community Chest in its 2023-2024 fiscal year, and $92,700 recently was distributed to various organizations which are:

-Lunchbox, Aisle of Flags, Geneseo Growth & Development; Ag in the Classroom (Farmer Bureau), Alternatives for the Older Adult, Inspire Continuing care, Freedom House, Geneseo Marriage & Family Counseling, Abilities Plus, Boy Scouts, Center for Youth & Family Services, Braveheart Henry County Advocacy, Geneseo Historical Museum, Sol’s Legacy, Henry County Youth Services, Rebuilding Together, Royal Family Kids’ Camp, Girl Scouts, Good Shepherd Foundation, Hillcrest Home and the Henry County Humane Society, Geneseo Shelter.

Bethany Winkleman, vice president of the Geneseo Community Chest Board, expressed appreciation from the Community Chest board to the community for their support and said, “One of the many reasons that our family decided to move back to Geneseo was due to the amazing support, generosity, and true love for this town.  We thank the community for a wonderful 2024 and look forward to funding more needs in 2025!"

The Henry County Humane Society, Geneseo Shelter, is among the organizations receiving contributions from the Geneseo Community Chest. In the photo are, from left, Taunya McGee, president of the Geneseo Community Chest board; Jamie DeSplinter, board member of the Henry County Humane Society; and Bethany Winkleman, vice president of the Community Chest board. In addition to McGee and Winkleman, other officers of the Community Chest board are Jackie DeSpain, treasurer; and Jenna Rushing, secretary. Photo by Claudia Loucks

SOME HISTORY OF THE GENESEO COMMUNITY CHEST AND HOW TO HELP:

The Geneseo Community Chest was incorporated in 1943 and each year it reaches out to financially aid non-profit organizations that improve the quality of life in the Geneseo area.

The 15-member board of directors of the Geneseo Community Chest each year obtains funds to help support non-profits in the Geneseo area.

When the local Community Chest was organized in 1943, there were nine board members whose task it was to solicit funds to aid charitable, philanthropic and character-building non-profit organizations in the community to benefit its citizens. In 1983, the organization secured 501 (c3) status ensuring that donations made to the organization would be tax deductible.

Since 1983, the board has increased to the current 15 members it has today, all volunteers giving of their time and talents.

Board members meet with organizations to review their needs and then solicit funds through a community-wide campaign.

Community Chest receives its donations from foundations, such as the Geneseo Foundation, the Miller Foundation, local businesses, and from many area citizens. The organization utilizes Birdies for Charity to maximize donations to help fund requests.

The Geneseo Community Chest annually solicits funds.

Donations are accepted throughout the year and information on how to contribute is available at the website: www.//geneseocommunitychest.org.

Deer In The Headlights - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

“Sell the Team, 6 to 3!”

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

Happy New Year 2025

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

Sports

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

When I wasn’t Old

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

Christmas Day

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

Humor

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

    Ans: A collie flower.

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

    Ans: A barking lot.

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

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

    Ans: So the horse would hit the hay.

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

Quote of the Week

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

  • Pliny the Younger

GHS Students’ 2025 New Year’s Resolutions, Part 2 - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Resolutions are from senior students at Geneseo High School, in Ali (Stern) Litton’s Family and Consumer Science and Managing Lifestyle classes. (Not in alphabetical order).

Continued from Part 1 that published yesterday.

Anthony Carter – “My New Year’s resolution this year is to save money so I can later buy an apartment, a new car, food, gas, and bills I’ll have to pay. I also want to be more supportive to others and be friendlier.”

Jordan Thomas – “For the new year, my resolution is to get better at time management, as I have a very busy week between school, sports, work, and hanging out with friends. To get all the things I need to get done and do all the things I want to do, I have to be able to keep my activities in order.”

Addi Snodgrass – “As a senior, my New Year’s resolution is to take on new challenges and push myself to try unfamiliar or intimidating things. With college just around the corner, I’ll be entering a new environment and meeting new people, which means I’ll need to adapt and push myself to try things that feel unfamiliar or daunting. By embracing these opportunities for growth, I’m setting myself up for success as I transition to college life.”

Logan VanDeWoestyne – “My New Year’s resolution is to practice my college theatre auditions. I have a few auditions for schools coming up in January and February that I want to focus on and perfect in order to make it into their programs. One of my other New Year’s resolutions is to find a better job and get better hours to get paid because I do not work enough.”

Lillliana Balluff – “As someone whose dream career is to be a language translator, my New Year’s Resolution is to continue improving my Spanish. I will make it a goal to have at least one conversation in Spanish whether it’s an in-person conversation or over the internet. It’s necessary to talk in Spanish frequently in order to become fluent, so I’ll put in the effort to achieve this goal.”

Kaylee Floming – “My New Year’s resolution is to focus more on myself and less on others. I want to focus more on myself to better my health going into my last semester of senior year. I will accomplish this by spending time doing things that I enjoy and setting aside time designated for me.”

Katie VanDeWoestyne – “My New Year’s resolution is to step out of my comfort zone. As I go to college I want to feel okay about being in different environments, and exploring new things.”

Hayden Veryzer – “My New Year’s Resolution is to improve my study habits by creating a regular study schedule and stay focused on school to better my learning. This will help me prepare and develop the necessary skills needed in college to earn my degree.”

Eric States – “For my New Year’s Resolutions I would like to work on a few things, the first being my organization skills. With finishing high school and becoming more independent I will need to organize and manage my time better and all that stems from organizing. The second resolution is to manage my finances better, along with heading off to college I will need to take charge of my money and how I am spending it. Along wit these very useful skills to work on in the New Year, my last resolution is to enjoy my last high school year. Being the top dog for the last time I will focus on attending school activities and spending time with my friends.”

Avery Kennedy – “My New Year’s Resolution is to save more money. Saving money will help me build better financial habits for my future. My first step to this will be budgeting.”

Gwenivere Erickson – “My resolution for 2025 is to continue learning about what’s interesting to me and breaking from the stringent curriculum I’ve been put through since I was 6. I don’t want to lose my interest in learning after high school. Instead, I want to reassess what’s important to me. Nothing against the average school curriculum, but I’m bored and losing my own sense of creativity. Here’s to a year of building my own curriculum.”

Emilia Schmitt - “My New Year’s Resolution for the coming year is to finalize college admission and apply to more scholarships. I’ve already been accepted into Culver-Stockton College, but I’ve yet to complete my acceptance to start finding my dormitory and roommate search. Furthermore, I’ve already applied to some scholarships but there are no limitations on how many I could try for. In my last semester of senior year these are the goals that I’m shooting to complete in the time that I have before graduation.”

Katelynn McMahill – “My New Year’s resolution is to become more involved in social media. Although every teenager is assumed to be addicted to social media, it is something that I never felt connected to. With the built-in aversion, I never took the time to think of the benefits that I am now in need of when entering college. In entering this next stage in my life I need to be more involved to not only find new friends in college, but I also need to find a suitable roommate. My older sister and many others have found amazing roommates through Instagram and other networks. I hope to have the same luck and meet someone I can befriend in preparation for college!”

Dru Curcuru – “My New Year’s resolution is to stop eating out, stay caught up on homework, and read more books.”

Elizabeth Carlin – “My New Year’s resolution is to spend less money and gas on getting fast food, snacks, coffee drinks, etc. This is my New Year’s resolution because I spend a lot of my money on useless things that aren’t good for my health or worth buying all the time in the long run. When I need money for bigger and better items I don’t have the funds to pay for it.”

GHS Students’ 2025 New Year’s Resolutions, Part 1 - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

It’s “out with the old,” and “in with the new” for several seniors at Geneseo High School as they share resolutions for the New Year.

Each New Year brings with it the very best intentions by young and old alike for the forthcoming 365 days. In earlier times, when most people lived in rural areas, preparations for the New Year included slaughtering any livestock that could not survive the dark months of winter. Thus, the origin of “New Year’s resolutions,” when people should “slaughter” their weaknesses.

A modern day ritual involves writing down faults that one hopes to be rid of and then burning the paper.

Resolutions are from senior students at Geneseo High School, in Ali (Stern) Litton’s Family and Consumer Science and Managing Lifestyle classes. (Not in alphabetical order).

Ava DeWolfe – “My New Year’s resolution is to overall better myself and my life. I want to become a better and healthier person. I will do this by gaining more strength to improve my health, through working out and eating better, nutritious food. I will bring more happiness to myself and those around me by performing two acts of kindness throughout each of my days. I want to become a better person not only to improve my health, both mental and physical, but also to be a better person for those around me.”

Kailee Williams – “My New Year’s resolution is to be focused on my education, health, and volleyball career. I want to be able to graduate with a good GPA, while also having good grades in all of my classes. Regarding health and volleyball, I want to be able to stay physically healthy and train/play my best for a future college team.”

Abby Wilshusen – “My New Year’s resolutions are to get more involved in my faith and to start a healthier lifestyle. To achieve these things, I am going to listen to a Bible in a year, which only takes up 30 minutes tops. I’m going to get more involved in TEC and within my church. To have a healthier lifestyle, I’m not going to go on some crazy diet but I’m going to be mindful of what I’m eating, and eating things in moderation. I’m also going to try to go for runs and walks to stay fit, and healthy. Another thing is I’m going to lay off drinking to many energy drinks and soda because they’re awful for your heart health and overall just not good for your body. These are my New Year’s resolutions that I am going to strive for,”

Josh Anderson – “My New Year’s resolution this year is to be at home more. I need to be making more memories with my family and taking care of my dog while at home. Resulting in me taking those memories with my family with me to college.”

Allison Wille – “My New Year’s resolution for 2025 is to successfully complete my first semester of nursing school while working as a CNA. Going along with that, I also hope to stop procrastinating and make school easier for myself.”

Preston Jones – “My New Year’s resolution for 2025 is to work harder on my grades. I want to work on getting my work completed on time and being able to do it well. I also wish to study more so I can do better on tests and quizzes. For this New Year I hope to have better grades and a better understanding of my classes.”

Carter Eastburn – “My New Year’s resolution is pretty basic and cheesy, but it’s important to me that I can learn and get better. My resolution is to improve myself both physically and mentally. That includes finding the motivation to work out, eat healthier, eat regularly, and stop trying to find that motivation in someone else.”

Brooklyn Banta-Hall – “My New Year’s resolution is to not procrastinate and just get things done before the last minute. Soon I will be out of high school so I will need to keep up on things so I can be reliable; In 2025 will not procrastinate and get more things done.”

Jaidah Cribbs - “For 2025 my first New Year’s resolution is to save money to be able to afford big purchases like a new car, an apartment, or buy a new phone. My second resolution is to not eat out at fast food restaurants a lot and work on eating healthier along with working out more. The third New Year’s resolution is to be more organized with my room and when I schedule things to do. My final New Year’s resolution is to go on an airplane for the first time and go to at least three states, along with stopping my procrastination on getting my CNA certificate to go to schools for Nursing. With this being said I am hoping to be successful in the goals that I have set for myself.”

Chloe Medler – “My New Year’s resolution for 2025 is to do better with not procrastinating. I want to do better with not putting things off like laundry and doing homework. I want to become more organized as I get older so then that way I can get things done quicker and not wait until the last minute to do it.”

Jack Polowy – “My New Year’s resolution for 2025 is that I want to better myself by getting back into working out and to become more organized. I hope to become more healthy from working out which can help better my physical and mental health. I also hope to become more organized before I go off to college; I think it will help me get better at doing things and finding the things I need.”

Alex Moe – “My New Year’s resolutions are to find a better relationship with God. I want to be a conference pitcher for our high school baseball team. I want to be stronger and more athletic. I want to go to college and play baseball and become a main pitcher. I want to be more productive for work.”

The rest will publish tomorrow!

Breaking Free: How Non-GMO Hybrids Can Empower Farmers in Tough Times

By Curt Jacobs
Geneseo Current

For small and mid-sized farmers, the current economic landscape is more than challenging—it’s personal. Every dollar counts, every yield matters, and every decision impacts not just the farm, but the family and the legacy tied to it. In this environment, planting non-GMO hybrids offers a practical and profitable way to regain control and improve resilience.

Save Money Where It Matters Most
 Non-GMO seeds are more affordable than GMO varieties, meaning less of your hard-earned money goes toward upfront costs. Additionally, non-GMO farming often requires fewer expensive herbicides and pesticides. When every expense on the farm feels heavier than ever, these savings add up quickly and can make the difference between breaking even and turning a profit.

Put More in Your Pocket with Premium Markets
 There’s a growing demand for non-GMO crops from consumers who want transparency in their food. Many buyers are willing to pay premiums for non-GMO grain, creating a unique opportunity for farmers to earn more per bushel. Unlike many farming practices, planting non-GMO hybrids doesn’t just cut costs—it can increase income, giving you a much-needed edge in a competitive marketplace.

Proven Yields Without the Extra Costs
 Some farmers worry that non-GMO hybrids can’t compete with GMOs in yield, but the results speak for themselves: non-GMO hybrids are delivering competitive—and in some cases, superior—yields in real-world conditions. In organic systems, yields exceeding 267 bushels per acre aren’t just theory—they’re happening. Plus, with non-GMO seeds, you’re not locked into someone else’s traits. You have the freedom to choose genetics that fit your fields, your soil, and your farm.

Take Back Control of Your Farm
 One of the biggest frustrations for small and mid-sized farmers is feeling trapped—by rising costs, by market demands, by contracts with big seed companies. Non-GMO hybrids break that cycle. They give you more independence to make decisions that fit your needs, not someone else’s agenda. Companies like Prairie Hybrids support farmers with personalized service and expert recommendations to help you succeed on your terms.

Better for the Land and Your Family
 Your farm isn’t just a business—it’s your home and your future. Non-GMO farming supports healthier soil, fosters biodiversity, and reduces chemical use. That’s better for the environment, your family, and the generations that will work your fields after you. It’s not just sustainable; it’s practical stewardship that benefits everyone.

A Smarter Path in a Tough Economy
 For small and mid-sized farmers, every decision is a balancing act. Non-GMO hybrids provide a clear path forward: lower costs, higher earning potential, competitive yields, and greater independence. In today’s weak farm economy, planting non-GMO isn’t just a choice—it’s a strategy for survival and success.

Take the step. Choose non-GMO hybrids and build a stronger, more resilient future for your farm and your family. If you would like to talk about options Selected and Produced for your farm, please reach out to Curt at Maplewood Ag. Call or text 309-314-3603.

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

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

When I wasn’t Old

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

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

Christmas Walk

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

Christmas Cards

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

Humor

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

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

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

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

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

‘da Bears

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

Quote of the Week

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

  • Pearl Buck

One More Thing

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

Hammond-Henry Welcomes Dr. John Dooley and New Pain Management Services at Geneseo Hospital

Geneseo IL - The Board of Directors and Administration are pleased to announce that Dr. John Dooley will offer pain management services at Hammond-Henry Hospital in Geneseo, beginning January 7. Dr. Dooley’s office will be in the Surgical/Pain Management Clinic, located on the second floor of the hospital. Those interested in scheduling an appointment now are encouraged to call 309.944.1595. No referrals are necessary.

A public open house will be held for Dr. Dooley on Tuesday, January 14 from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Hospital Dining Room. All interested are welcome to attend.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Dooley as he brings more than 36 years of expertise in pain management,” said Colton Anderson, Director of Physician Recruitment and Clinic Services. “He is committed to improving our patient’s quality of life by helping to alleviate their pain. He provides a full spectrum of pain management interventional techniques and brings a world of knowledge with him to this position.”

John B. Dooley, MD, is licensed to practice in Iowa, Illinois, and Florida. Dr. Dooley treats common conditions such as joint pain; extremity pain; neck, thoracic, and lumbar spine pain; and all forms of chronic pain (not acute post-surgical pain.)

Primary services include upper and lower extremity joint injections; spinal epidural steroid injections; radio frequency nerve ablation of the spine; cancer or osteoporosis vertebral fracture treatments; and medication management for pain, including cancer and opioid use disorders.

Dr. Dooley received his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Iowa, Iowa City, in 1984, and completed his post-graduate training fellowship in Critical Care Medicine from University of Iowa Hospital, Iowa City, in 1988. He completed his residency in anesthesiology at Hartford Hospital, Hartford, CT in 1987. Dr. Dooley was also appointed by then-Governor Terry Branstad to serve as a State of Iowa Hospital Licensing Board Member in 2015.

In addition to serving Hammond-Henry Hospital’s Pain Management Clinic, open on Tuesdays, Dr. Dooley also works with Anesthesia and Pain Consultants, PC, Davenport, IA, and as Medical Director and Medical Review Officer for the Alcohol & Drug Dependency Services of Southeast Iowa. At Hammond-Henry, Dr. Dooley will hold clinic hours on Tuesday morning and complete procedures on Tuesday afternoons.

LST-325 - By Dan Dauw

When I wasn’t Old

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

Notre Dame Ladies BB

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

LST-325

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

Christmas Walk vs. Mother Nature

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

Illinois Flag

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

Humor

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

    Ans: Frostbite.

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

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

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

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

Quote of the Week

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


Merry Christmas

Dave Smith no Longer Hammond-Henry Hospital CEO

The Hammond-Henry Hospital Board of Directors have announced that Dave Smith is no longer the organization’s Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.  

Jodie Criswell, Chief Financial Officer, has been named interim CEO.  Criswell has been with the organization for 14 years.  

The Board of Directors is seeking other candidates to fill the permanent role.

We will have more information when it’s available.