The Sharks Got ‘em All - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

Geneseo Izaak Walton League

The next monthly meeting of the Geneseo Ikes will be Monday, February 10, 2025, beginning at 7 p.m. The guest speaker will be David Wyffels, Fish Biologist, IL-DNR.
There will be a business meeting and refreshments after Mr. Wyffels presentation.

Boy Scout Troop 100

This is a reminder that the scouts will host their annual breakfast for the public on Sunday, February 16, beginning at 7 a.m. It will be held at the Geneseo Moose Lodge.

Cold legs for Owls

Many owls have long legs. The Great Horned Owl’s legs, for example, can account for half its body length. The reason we don’t notice its bare legs is because they are hidden by the bird’s fluffy body feathers. See what you can learn by reading this column! Not really!!!

Maple City Band

‘Tis a way’s away, but the kind maestro, Alan Kiser, recently gave us the MCB concerts dates for 2025.
They are as follows: June 3, June 10, June 17, July 4th (Friday), and the Maple City “German Band” on July 15. With the exception of July 4th, all concerts start at 7 p.m.
Each year the band has added more and more musicians. Let’s hope there is room for everyone on the stage. Maestro Kiser and the band will provide great music so make sure to check it out.

Ice Fishing Report

Lorna and I went ice fishing last Friday for a few hours. It was a warm day in the high 40s, maybe low ‘50s. Perfect day for ice fishing. The ice was plenty thick at 9 inches. Lorna helped me with the ice fishing gear and then went back to the SUV to read her book.
I fished a few hours and caught 10 bluegills and lost a few. Waxies worked, minnows did not. I fished the main lake at Giant Goose.

It was a "Dan D" outdoors last Friday to do some ice fishing. The fish were biting , too!

Go, Redbirds!

Last Saturday, the Nommensen and Dauw families traveled to Bloomington-Normal to watch the ISU “Red Birds” play Missouri State University.
The game was mostly favorited by MSU, but then with maybe 5-10 minutes to go, ISU “turned ‘n burned” with some much needed 3 pointers to win the game. As you can see in the photo it shows our motley crew cheering on ISU.

The Nommensen and Dauw family enjoyed a great basketball game between Illinois State University and Missouri State University.  ISU won!  

Humor

A fella was fishing off the coast of Florida when his boat tipped over. He yelled at an old beachcomber on shore if there were any ‘gators around here? The old guy said, “Naw. They haven’t been around here in years.”
Feeling safe, the fisherman started swimming for shore. About halfway to shore he yelled, “How did you get rid of the ‘gators?” The old guy relied, “We didn’t do anything. The sharks got ‘em all.”

Quote of the Week

“Growing old is no more than a bad habit which a busy man has no time to form.” - Andre Maurois

 

Park District RESPECT Award to GHS Student Keely Roberts

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Keely Roberts, a student at Geneseo High School, is the recipient of the fourth quarter Geneseo Park District RESPECT Award. Roberts is a member of the GHS Gymnastics Team and was nominated for the award by Gymnastics Coaches Larry and Chris Ward. She is the daughter of Amy and Mark Roberts.

The RESPECT Award includes these qualities in an individual:

-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 written by the Ward couple states: “Keely Roberts is an extraordinary example and carries out the Mission and Core Values of the Geneseo Park District. Keely is a vibrant and energetic person that always leads her students by example. She always comes into the gym and organizes the environment by straightening the plastics or putting the mats in place. She has a bubbly personality, but is very calm and patient with her gymnastics students. Keely takes responsibility for attendance and getting the class started on time. She is helpful from the second she arrives until the second she leaves at the end of class.

She can teach any gymnastics event and is an excellent spotter. She can demonstrate any gymnastics skill as a competitive gymnast, which is pretty incredible.

Keely Roberts

Keely is a successful student at Geneseo High School where is involved in many activities along with golf and gymnastics. She is a strong, quiet leader. She was captain this year as a junior on the gymnastics team. Keely radiates excellence in all areas by working hard and being kind.

Keely is very careful to promote safety in the gym. She asks students to stop any unsafe behaviors and is very conscientious with students with special needs. She talks through discipline issues with her day camp students and gymnastics students with a great deal of professionalism. Keely smiles often and presents a positive force in whatever she is participating in at the moment.

During the high school season, she promoted moving equipment to all of her friends and they all showed up to help the gymnastics team move equipment. This was such a miracle and the result was a record time of setting up equipment.

Keely is remarkable with students with all types of diversity and individual needs. She is patient and understanding with all students. Keely immediately sends out messages to other employees if another coach is needed for the day. She usually has help in ten minutes or less. That shows that she communicates well and others respect her request for help. She is great at communicating to her co-workers, her teammates, and her students. She is direct and precise in what is needed and what is safe for the environment. She has great respect for all others.

She shares opinions and ideas without hesitation, but listens to what others have to say. She collaborates with adults and children very well.

Her love for gymnastics explodes when Keely teaches the sport. She is excited for her students to learn and build new skills. She is always trying new coaching drills and techniques without being told to do so. Keely is very popular with the young gymnasts because they see her example and want to be as skilled as her. They also see her calm teaching style and want to learn more as a result of Keely’s talented approach to gymnastics.

She always has the interests of the Geneseo Park District Program in mind and wants to serve as best she can as a caring professional. Thank you for this opportunity to nominate Keely Roberts for this prestigious award.”

Do Fish Sleep? - By Dan Dauw

Awesome Challenge

Last week I was e-mailing with a friend, Tony Petreikis. He and his wife, Laura, were local Conservation Police Officers. They are retired and livening the good life in Wisconsin. They are big anglers and have set a goal of fishing in all 50 states. That includes fishing the great lakes which they have done so except for Lake Huron.
They have 22 states checked off. I know of another friend, Don Morrison, who lives in North Carolina and is working on playing golf in all 50 states. Knowing these fellows I think they will achieve their goals.

Do fish sleep?

I know a lot of you have wondered that for years. Well, the problem is fish have no eyelids so it’s hard to know if they are dozing off, or ready to take your bait when fishing.

When I wasn’t Old

Growing up on Fridays I think we mostly had fish sticks for supper. Ha! I guess we wouldn’t go to heaven if we ate meat. It’s kind of funny, but we still go out for dinner on a lot of Fridays.
In my opinion, “Sweet Peas” has great fish and Lorna likes their ribs. On special occasions, it’s a trip to “The Cellar.”
Another food I had in my younger days was chicken pot pies. I didn’t care for them as they had too many peas mixed in.
Way back when, I disliked peas, broccoli and beets. As one gets older tastes can change, but beets are still a “yuk” for me.
I remember we had a next-door neighbor that would leave her house and would always sing. It drove my mom nuts because she said no one’s that happy. Her husband built a boat “inside” their house. He had a mistake in his calculations and could not get it out of the house. He finally got his saw and somehow got it outside.
We had good neighbors although one fella was a newsman for a local TV station and he thought he was a pretty cool dude. He was kind of a jerk.
Growing up we went to Sunday mass at Sacred Heart Church, Moline. I always remember one time the Monsignor chastised some people for coming late to mass. I’ll bet they never came back after that! My mom never cared to go to church, but my dad did. Before I check-out I should go to that same church, just for old times sake.

Sports

Some great games over last weekend. Notre Dame beat Penn State in football and the ND women’s BB team won even though they were without their number one scorer, Hannah Hidalgo. Iowa State pulled out an overtime win beating Texas Tech in basketball. Let’s hope the Geneseo H.S. can do better in basketball. “Some days are diamonds, some days are stone.”

Feed the Birds

Just a reminder that our feathered friends enjoy eating seeds, suet, and water during these snow covered days. I felt sorry for one blackbird that comes to our feeders. It has a piece of string about five inches long that seems to be caught under its peak. It drives the poor bird nuts as it try’s everything to get free from the pesky thing.

Humor

  1. “I’m making a documentary on how to fly a plane. We’re currently filming the pilot.”

  2. When you wear a belt of $100 bills, it’s just a “waist” of money.

  3. Lorna asked if I’ve seen the dog bowl? I said I never knew he did.

  4. Whoever stole the copy of my Microsoft office, I will find you. You have my word.

  5. A friend of mine said he only believes in 12.5% of the Bible. I guess that makes him an “1/8th”iest. (Note: As I am typing this, coyotes are in our backyard).

Quote of the Week

“I want to be forgotten, even by God.”

  • Robert Browning

Celebrate Recovery Program at Geneseo First Methodist - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Celebrate Recovery is described as a Christ-centered recovery program with 12 steps and eight principles and is for anyone with hurts, hang-ups, or habits. The new ministry begins on Thursday, Jan. 23, at the South Campus (224 North State St.) of Geneseo First Methodist Church in Geneseo. John and Jamie Pivovarnik are leading Celebrate Recovery.

The free program is held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursdays for 52 weeks. The first hour of each meeting is large group time with worship and a teaching or testimony and the second hour is gender-specific small group time.

Celebrate Recovery is open to men and women age 18 and older. For more information contact Yvette Biddle, director of Discipleship at Geneseo First Methodist, 309-944-2793.

There is no cost to attend the program and there is no advance registration, interested people are asked to “just show up and feel free to bring a friend.”

John and Jamie Pivovarnik are leading the new ministry, “Celebrate Recovery,” that begins Thursday, Jan. 23, at the South Campus of Geneseo First Methodist Church in Geneseo. Contributed Photo

The Rev. Dr. Chris Ritter, directing pastor at Geneseo First Methodist, said, “We are thrilled to offer the Geneseo community this Christ-centered ministry that has helped countless thousands find new freedom. Celebrate Recovery is for anyone seeking to overcome hurts, habits, or hang-ups that have kept them form living their best lives.”

The Pivovarnik couple, leaders of the program, said, “We believe Celebrate Recovery is for everyone! It’s a Biblical-based program that can lead to victory in overcoming hurts, hang-ups, and habits. Personally, we have come from a place of trauma, pain, addiction, and self destruction and now with Christ at the center, and the tools Celebrate Recovery has to offer, we are experiencing a life of renewed hope, restoration, and redemption. In addition, our family is also reaping the benefits. Our wish is for all in the community to experience the freedom and joy in living a life of true peace.”

FROM THE CELEBRATERECOVERY.COM WEBSITE:

“Celebrate Recovery was founded in 1991 as a ministry of Saddleback Church by Pastor John and Cheryl Baker. John shared with Senior Pastor Rick Warren a vision God had given him for anew Christ-centered ministry where people could find freedom from their hurts, hang-ups and habits. Over the years, thousands of people have gone through the program at Saddleback Church. Many of them have gone on to serve in Celebrate Recovery and other areas of the church. Thousands of churches have started a Celebrate Recovery ministry around the world, and that number continues to grow. Celebrate Recovery is not just growing in churches, but in recovery houses, rescue missions, universities and prisons around the world. It continues to be a growing global movement.”

FREEDOM FROM THE FOLLOWING IS POSSIBLE THROUGH CELEBRATE RECOVERY:

“Abandonment, abuse, alcohol, anger, anxiety, betrayal, codependency, crucial spirit, depression, divorce, drugs, eating disorders, family problems, fear, gambling, grief/loss, guilt, insecurity, internet, job loss, low self-esteem, need to control, nicotine, overspending, people pleasing, perfectionism, pornography, pride, PTSD, relationship, sexual addition, stealing and stress.”

THINGS CELEBRATE RECOVERY IS:

-A safe place to share.
-A refuge.
-A place of belonging.
-A place to care for others and be cared for.
-A place where respect is given to each member.
-A place where confidentially is highly regarded.
-A place to learn.
-A place to demonstrate genuine love.
-A place to grow and become strong again.
-A place for progress.
-A place where you can take off your mask and allow others to know who you are.
-A place for healthy challenges and healthy risks.
-A possible turning point in your life.

THINGS CELEBRATE RECOVERY IS NOT:

-A place for selfish control.
-Therapy.
-A place for secrets.
-A place to look for dating relationships.
-A place to be rescued by others.
-A place for perfection.
-A place to judge others.
-A quick fix.

GMS First Semester Honor Rolls

Information Provided by Geneseo Middle School

First Honor Roll
Based on GPA of 3.50 to 4.40

8th Grade

Cole P. Anderson, Paisley J. Arnold, Avery K. Bagby, Jocelyn M. Bagby, Alex F. Balensiefen, Ella M. Bernhard, Daphne M. Bertelsen, Hannah E. Billingsly, Boston J. Brewer, Leila M. Bries, Peyton L. Brodie, Charlee A. Bruce, Annika R. Brumbaugh, Landen M. Burk, Charleigh J. Campbell, Savannah K. Carlson, Helo J. Castro, Ashlynn G. Chamberlain, Leah M. Cooper, Autumn M. Cunningham, Alexander R. Darnall, Gavin P. Davis, William A. Davis, Zachary M. Davis, Davin R. DeBoef, Ellaina F. DeLoose, Henry M. Dwyer, Kyle M. Everett, Sawyer J. Forsythe, Landon A. French, Emily A. Garcia, Eleanor M. George, Maci L. Gorman, Ava L. Graham, Hailey R. Griswold, Owen M. Harris, Karoline M. Hasson, Kenzi J. Hasson, Lyla H. Henry, Emmett W. Hill, Emma J. Hofer, Hunter G. Hoover, Ellie J. Jackson, Owen M. Jacobi, Brynn R. Kinney, Collin P. Kreiss, Madison G. Kuethe, Faith H. Kuster, Michael G. Lawson, Zebin Lin, Rylie J. Lopez, Chloe J. Mance, Wyatt J. Mickley, Kellan J. Miller, Gibson M. Minard, Emma E. Minnaert, Tad R. Moore, Paul M. Nelms, Katrina G. Nerud, Suzanne L. Neumann, Mia G. O’Dell, Isabella A. Ong, Ryder J. Painter, Owen A. Pollock, Henry A. Pratt ,Annie C. Reed, Payton L. Riffe, Eve M. Robb, Isaac J. Ropp, Cormac J. Round, Olivia L. Ruby, Jocelyn M. Russelburg, Novak B. Ryerson, Reese G. Schaaf, Emma R. Schroeder, James W. Seals, Chelsea R. Shamblin, Mark H. Shoemaker, Paige A. Sides, Benjamin C. Simosky, Kinley M. Smith, Jack A. Snook, Milla W. Stewart, Genevieve V. Talley, Ethan B. Temperley, Allison G. Tice, Garrett R. Tranel, Sophia I. Urquiza, Jaxson R. VanAntwerp, Payton N. Vanzuiden, Ella M. Versluis, Khloe R. VonHolten, Charlize A. Wachtel, Lucy C. Walck, Ashlyn M. Werthmann, Lilly M. Wilshusen, Giana M. Wurslin, Levi J. Wyffels, Jett F. Znamenacek

7th Grade

Kynlee G. Adam, Lincoln Babcock, Delia J. Bellagamba, Mason D. Bess, David M. Betcher, Zachary L. Blank, Kobe T. Britton, Drake M. Burton, Liam M. Campos, Eliana H. Charlet, Ryan M. Coleman, Hattie R. Deaner, Sofie F. Diebold, Joshua A. Diehl, Cameron P. Doyle, Ella L. Driskell, Will E. Ehlert, Tatum W. Eiselstein, Jason S. Flondor, Everlee M. Fobert, Alivia N. Gaines, Thomas W. Gaskey IV, Declan J. Gillespie, Sophia G. Gluck, Lily G. Green, Audreyana Grove, Jesus R. Guerrero, Trace C. Hager, Drew M. Hagerman, Huxley O. Haley, Maddison G. Harris, Ethan A. Hepner, Brooke N. Herington, Ella R. Johnson, Aislyn S. Kane, Jayden L. Kelley-Leach, Addison I. Kelly, Korah E. Klotz ,Olivia M. Krause, Norah D. Kuddes, Carter J. Lampe, Bradlee Larson, Hillary M. Lewis, Vanessa M. Logsdon, Wyatt T. Lynch, Zane S. Matheny, Jocelynn E. Matthews, Adrian M. McSparin, Elijah J. Melton, Jaela J. Minnaert, Wyatt L. Murray, Willa K. Newburg, Easton P. Nichols, Kamryn E. Nordstrom, Zak N. O’Dell, Xayden A. Oaks, Hailey R. Olson, Andrew N. Parrish, Aarav P. Patel, Elle M. Patterson, Carter G. Peacock, Baylen M. Poffenberger, Lillian C. Putnam, Justin A. Roemer, Cooper T. Sanders, Jack W. Schaaf, Reese M. Shannon, Kyndall M. Shappard, Seren I. Sharpe, Alexander A. Soukup, Jack D. Sullivan, Scarlett A. Sunstrom, James D. Sutherland, Skilynn N. Tarrant, Myleigh G. Thinglum, Savanna F. Thompson, Charlotte J. Vandersnick, Jolyn R. VanDeVoord, Adler M. VanOpdorp, Lillian G. VanOpdorp, Hudson T. Vorac, Rosella J. Wentz, Peyton E. Wexell, Brooklyn S. Williams, Caden J. Williams, James R. Winkleman, Kyle T. Wirth, Henry V. Woodward, Sesamir H. Yearby JR.

Sixth Grade

Hadley A. Abbott, Amelia J. Anderson, Lincoln X. Anderson, Oliver E. Anderson, Alaina A. Bagby, Ameliyah R. Basley, William F. Battin, Nyali S. Bernier, Bristol M. Boster, Olivia N. Boyd, Braxton R. Brants, Aubree N. Brown, Grant J. Brown, Braeden A. Bunce, Mara S. Castro, McKenzie R. Caulkins, Isabella M. Chavez, Henley A. Cirricione, Oliver M. Conley, Brynn O. Corber, Emmett J. Cunningham, Eli P. Curcuru, Lydia J. Dahl, Aubrey F. DeGrave, Hannah M. DeJohn, Savanna A. DeSplinter, Aliyah C. Dewey, Robin E. Dwyer, Makayla Edlefson, Sara J. Everett, Grace M. Feely, Rosalie A. Fournier, Maxhm Freeman, Gavin K. Galloway, Maxwell D. Gehling, Kieran B. George, Brady R. Griffith, Elizabeth S. Haley, Andrew C. Henderson, Owen A. Henson, Brody J. Hoener, Aaron R. Holman, Charlie Hone, Catalia L. Hor,n Hayes Hubne,r Asher S. Huffman, Wyatt D. Hulslander, Noah J. Hutchinson, Elliot R. Iest, Drayton Ince, Sullivan H. Jackson, William A. Jackson, Reid A. Jacobi, Ember L. Janusz Marlee J. Juchcinski Anna R. Kamprath Georgina L. Kelley, Colton T. Kies, Christopher J. Kleckner, Hailynn R. Krider, Kennedy K. LaFriniere, Kinley M. Lenth, Audrey G. Mance, Thea J. Marolf, Remi R. McKeag, Tanner J. McShane, Hadleigh J. Mendoza, Bennett H. Mickley, Samantha L. Minnaert-Yocum, Kendall C. Murphy, Elicio J. Natario, Gianna W. Parrish, Harper R. Peters, Claire D. Peterson, Sophia K. Pollock, Ava R. Poston, Remington Rahmus, Shae A. Robertson, Simon T. Runty, Connor Schaaf, Keira R. Schultz, Aubry O. Seal,s Colton Seals, Tucker Seals, Braxton D. Sells, Amelia E. Shannon, Selah M. Simenec, Natalia S. Smith, Lila J. Snook, Brandton C. Spensley, Charley R. Spindel, Barrett W. Strode, Lance R. Summers, Connor Switzer, Sienna R. Temperley, Emma C. Tice, Lucas G. VanDeWoestyne, Andrew W. Versluis, Eben L. Von Motz, Kate Vorac, Sophia L. Vroman, Frederick T. Wachtel, Averi E. Weishaar, Matthew C. Werling, Zachary R. Werthmann, Brynn K. Wildemuth, Emmery K. Williamson, Avery L. Wilshusen, Hadley A. Wyffels, Jase Wyffels

Second Honor Roll
GPA of 3.00 to 3.49

8th Grade

Kylie A. Achenbach, Jocelyn A. Aguirre, Evan M. Beil, Anna G. Berry, Callen A. Black, Cullen V. Boone, Dia R. Bros, Harrison R. Clark, Eli J. Cotty, Charley A. Courson, Miles G. Curcuru, Christian R. Dawson, Lilyonna L. Decker, Aliyah Jo L. DeKezel, Jacksen K. Doubet, Brenna Dykstra, Elijah S. Erickson, Mason R. Escamilla, Brooklyn M. Francis, Kane M. Fuelling, Alexander M. Gentry, Joie J. Gilbert, Bryce R. Gillespie, Wesley D. Graham, Daegan J. Hansen, Easton R. Hornback, Cooper G. Hudson, Anthony J. Jackson, Perry J. Jacobs, Eli D. Johnston, Delaney T. Killian, Matthew E. Krause, Andrew J. Kreps, Isabella L. Lewis, Liliana R. Marshall, Luke E. McCann, Tylaiha M. Medina, Kellen Q. Minder, Kasen J. Mosier, Julianna M. Nolen, Jackson P. Parker, Cameron J. Proehl, Brooke N. Robinson, Faith H. Schaver, Klaire E. Sikardi, Kais A. Sproston, Kain M. Stroud, Ean R. Tank, Grace L. Toney, Wyatt F. Vroman, Samuel G. Wagler, Molly D. Wannemacher, Aiden M. Weishaar, Jayden A. Westley, Autumn R. Wisely, Alec L. Woods, Maysen J. York

7th Grade

Ruby I. Air, Penelope M. Aukee, Lilith R. Ballard, Natalie A. Beavers, Kenneth M. Bernhard JR., Allison A. Bos, Ellyzabeth J. Bristol, Reegan R. Brown, Harmonie R. Burk, Brett S. Correa, Kellan S. Courtright, Colton M. Crutcher, Finley A. DeSplinter, Grant R. Dietsch, Kieran A. Efflandt, Avery E. Emmerson, Kameron R. Floming, Lillian C. Fritz, Lucas M. Fuelling, Brady H. Garard, Kayden D. Gottwalt, Sean P. Haley, Addyson R. Havill, Evelyn R. Hemphill, Kura L. Henson, Ella A. Hepner, Bennett A. Holke, Maverick X. Hull, Charlize J. Janczak, Lucas A. Jobe, Mason E. Kauzlarich, Kinleigh J. Kiefer, Kellan D. Knackstedt, Conrad J. Knudtson, Lucia E. Lococo, Alexander M. Lopez, Clara P. Mallum, Drayton M. Mapel, Vander E. McAvoy, Lila C. McCallister, Ian J. McCord, Sam Monahan, Adelynn R. Murphy, Hayley L. Newburg, Sara J. O’Dell, Kenryk L. Osborn, Bayleigh N. Painter, Teagan A. Price, Tessa O. Reveal, Carter C. Robb, Macie R. Rotz, Emma E. Schneider, Rykken L. Schweitzer, Braeden S. Scott, Easton A. Sigwalt, Henry J. Staffeldt, Gabriel H. Taylor, Noah W. Tully, Genessa K. Underwood, Easton R. Veloz, Ryker J. Vincent, Trigg J. Vincent, Kaden W. Wagle, Kenna L. Weber, Cole B. Weinzierl, Addison L. Williams, Ryland A. Williamson, Leotho K. Woodruff, Aspen F. Znamenacek

6th Grade

Sophia R. Abrahamsen, Beau E. Bomleny, Kayden D. Burkhead, Avery M. Burton, Grace E. Curcuru, Nolan M. Currie, Asa W. Dawson, Dace B. DeGerengel, Levi O. Delp, Nathan Dwyer, Brandon Figueroa, Kailyn M. Gillespie, Emma J. Gorman, Swayze L. Graham, Kinsley R. Gripp, Everett Haars, Scarlett O. Heller, Drew C. Hopkey, Carl J. Jozwiak, Addison J. Kinnard, Elijah D. Kushmer, Ethan S. Logsdon, Mia E. Marshall, Kellan G. McBee, Aaliyah M. Medina, Tucker S. Mesick, Grant Z. Nelson, Augustin Osborn, Elia S. Patikowski, Connor D. Rosenow, Lilah M. Ruby, Mason J. Saylor, Avery K. Shamblin, Greyson P. Sheffler, Joseph M. Simosky, Payton A. Smith, Noralyn M. Steffes, Myles M. Struve, Dean N. Wannemacher, Adelyn J. Ward, Dru E. Weinzierl, Kinslee D. Westfall, Parker A. Wilcox-Smith, David A. Woods

GHS First Semester Honor Rolls

Information Provided by Geneseo High School

First Honor Roll - GPA 3.50 to 5.40

Class of 2025

Luke W. Abrahamsen-Collins, Mason W. Anderson, Kamden J. Ariano, Shane M. Bagby, Liliana J. Balluff, Brooklyn K. Banta-Hall, William W. Baum, Sophia J. Bellagamba, Aaron A. Betcher, Brianna N. Bowles, Jackson C. Brumbaugh, Elizabeth C. Carlin, Amelia G. Carlson, Anthony B. Carter, Avery R. Catour, Tyler A. Chamberlain, Marley J. Cherry, Sophia M. Clifton, Emma Tea Cocci, Dylan P. Cotty, Dru A. Curcuru, Isabella M. Curcuru, Elanor W. DeBlieck, Grant D. DeShane, Ava K. DeWolfe, Alayna R. Duckett, Grace R. Durian, Katelyn R. Durnell, Kendall J. Ellerbrock, Gwenivere S .Erickson, Allison N. File, Kayden L. Fouts, Kayci L. Freeman, Chloe K. Fulcher, Dylan J. Gehl, Caroline P. Girten, Christian R. Haney, Cody V. Hensley, Lindsay J. Herington, Tyler D. Holtzen,Sydney A. Hoover, Keaton M. Hudson, Hayliegh-Jane L. Huglin, Malloree K. Humphrey Lily E. Johnson, Matthew E. Johnson, Max C. Johnson, Logan P. Jones, Preston R. Jones, Hope A. Kuster, Aislan C. Leetch, Julia R. Lewis, Kruiz J. Ludwig, Kayton G. Malzewski, Annalise L. Maxwell, Katelynn M. McMahill, Zachary M. Montez, Lilyann M. Mooney, Madelyn M.Mooney, Jackson M. Moore, Elizabeth C. Mroz, Jacob A. Nelson, Sydney A. Nelson, Kyah H. Newell, Bryce F. Nixon, Kale M. O’Bryan, Colin P. Orwig, Owen S. Parker, Jennifer J. Parsons, Austin M. Pearce, Lauren A. Powell, Dylan J. Randolph, Allison L. Reade, Cooper R. Ries, Jeslen L. Rink, Keely M. Roberts, Benjamin M. Robinson, Cavence L. Rokis, Rachael J. Roodhouse, Marian Sanchez Sigala, Kara Y. Sancken, Shay A. Schehl, Emilia R.Schmitt, Timothy J. Sebastian, Paxton A. Sherbeyn, Emma G. Skovronski, Dylan C. Snell, Payton N. Snider, Addison L. Snodgrass, Avery A. Snook, Dyllan L. Staffeldt, Eric D. States, Nathanial G. Stees, Lillian G. Taylor, Jordan L. Thomas, Leo Underwood, Kathryn C. VanDeWoestyne, Logan G. VanDeWoestyne, Bryson K. VanHoutte, Joseph E. Venneberg, Joseph K. Versluis, Hayden J. Veryzer, Stormie R. Wancket, Gavin J. Wates, Blake T. Welge, Dylan W. Whipple, Sabine J. Whitmer, Allison S. Wille, Kailee S. Williams, Abby E. Wilshusen, Braelyn A. Wyffels

Class of 2026

Hailey L. Achenbach, Zara A. Andersen, Isabella R. Angelo, Natalie R. Aukee, Eliana L. Barickman, Calvin R. Bell, Christopher J. Berry Jr., Greta A. Bolme, Grant M. Bomleny,Brooklyn R. Bos, Erin S. Bowers, Bryson A. Boxell, Ava R. Brewer, Aidan M. Bries, Reid R. Brodersen, Isabella G. Brooks, Aiden D. Brudos, Liberty A. Brumbaugh, Jessica A. Cartwright, Jocelyn R. Cechowicz, Jordan R. Cechowicz, Brody R.Clementz, Jack A. Cooper, Jameson C. Coppejans, Erika G.Cotty, Samuel S. Curcuru, Matthew D. Darnall, Anna G. Davis, Ava C. DeSplinter, Keira R. Disterhoft, Margaret S. Elder, Landon A. Favri, Jonathan T. Freadhoff, Taber L. Fulks, Anabella R .Goethals, Cora I. Gorman, Bradley E. Hartman, Jarett J. Hasson, Hayley R. Henry, Lucas J. Herstedt, Christopher J .Hill, Payton J. Hofer, Carter J. Holke Abigail L. Holman, Alexandria K. Hull, Luise Jacobi, Adam C. Johnson, Kameryn R. Keegan, Andrew T. Kelly, Erik J. Kelly, Owen M. Kelly, Catherine J. Lehman, Karen A. Lester, Emma G. Loehr, Hannah M. Loehr Tavion, B .Mangin Brock, B. Marshall, James D. Matthews II, Jackson T. McAvoy, Aden L. McCann, Dawsyn T. McDonald, Hannah G. McGee, Cameron A. Melchert, Janey C. Neumann, Wyatt J. Neumann. Gavin C. Nicholson. Serina R. Nimrick, Eliana C. Oaks, Reyhan S. Onder, Lucille J. Peters, Taylor R. Peterson, Landry M.Possin, Jordan M. Ramirez, Elizabeth J.Rapps, Madison M. Reade, Cy V. Sammons, Chase R. Sanders, Bee K. Scheider, Remy A. Sharpe, Mya N. Splear, Leland J. Stickle, Hannah M. Stone, Tucker W. Tarkington, Paislee C. Tuggle, Jay P. VanHerzeele, Quinntyn W. VanHyfte, Callie E. VanKerrebroeck, Ashton J. Veloz, Cameron L. Walker, Madeline G. Wells, Kjerstin S. Wildemuth, Kathryn M. Wilson, Claire S. Yenor

Class of 2027

Alejandro J. Aleman, Elena R. Anderson, Lilliana E. Anderson, Keaton J. Ariano, Mia A. Balensiefen, Jacob R. Berry, Eleanor E. Bertelsen, Annabelle E. Betcher, Nathan E. Billingsly, Erik W. Bjorkman, Grant K. Bjorkman, Taylor E. Boone, Ethan J. Brown, Isabella M. Brown, Lillian M. Brown, Jaydon H. Burrage, Grace E. Carlson, Kolby R. Causemaker, Callie M. Copeland, Evelyn F. Dahl, Manuel De San Juan Ayala, Sally-Ann W. DeBlieck, Claire A .DeGrave, Katelyn H. DeRycke, Carter L. Dickey, Remlee C. Dwyer, Leah M. Falk, Taefyl A. Freeman, Tyler J. Gerstel ,Hazel E. Harris, Emily L. Haverback, Jakob B. Hodges, William P. Holley, Adam Jackson, Lambeau J. Janczak, Maddox A. Jansen, Mckenna G. Johnson, Micah D. Johnson, Scarlyt T. Johnson, Grace J. Kaiser, Lydia K. King, Mckenzie L. Krug, Aria L. Mayo-Bechtel, Jack V. Mickley, Madilyn E. Minnaert, Reese A. Minnaert, Mark H. Nelms, Tyler J. Nelson, Lainey M. Norville, Esref E. Onder, Samuel J. Ortiz, Eli D. Palmer, Viola A. Pettit, Lauren M. Piquard, Abby R. Poston, Carson R. Pratt, Natalie M. Reisner, Dominic T. Ritter, Landon B. Rogers, Sydney G. Rosas, Hayley A. Rubitsky, Brooklyn A. Ruby, Connor A. Runty, Ayla M. Schultz, Nyna E. Schweitzer, Brylee A. Sheffler, Brooke E. Shollenberger Reid A. Simpson Brooklyn R. Smith Molly R. Snyder, Paizley S. Stewart, Ayame F. Stroh, Claire J. Swanson, Joseph M. Thoene, Jeel Vakharia, Jiya Vakharia, Emma G. Vandeveer, Delaney D. Vroman, Lucille R. Wachtel, Kendyl C. Wassenhove, Justin R. Williams, Kylee N. Wisely, Robert C. Wolfe, Rebekah J. Zimmerman

Class of 2028

Raidyn P. Allison, Stella R. Allison, Claudia J. Angelo, Cyrus Babcock, Katherine H. Barickman, Landon L. Barnett, Luke Z. Bedford, Lillian J. Bellagamba, Evan C.Bender, Tivya R. Bernier, Fritz E. Bolme, Braxton W. Boone, Kanon J. Boster, Alivia J. Brown, Jaylee A. Brudos, Nolan J. Burton, Rylan R. Carlson, Lydia G. Carton, Quinn F. Cherry, Taeton P. Chirchir, Cole T. Clifton, Ellah R. Clifton, Harrison M. Conley, Elijah A. Coppejans, Brayden D.Cox, Mallory A. Daniels, Evelyn M. DeBaene, Emilie A. DeCastecker, Madelyn S. DeJohn, Olivia E. DeSplinter, Bryce M. Diehl, Isla D. Disterhoft, Megan A. Ehlert, Kamee A. Eighmy, Mason W. Emerick, Brycen E. Fahnestock, Andrew M. Feely, Phoenix B. Ferro-Heller, Jasmine M. Foss, Jackson T. Frank, Carter A. French, Hannah M. Fuelling, Jacey L. Gehl, Gavin M. Gillespie, Karlee C. Hankins, Kade M. Heilman, Kaylin A. Heller, Cole T. Henson, Skylar M. Hileman, Cameron J. Jansen, Annibelle M. Juarez, Austen C. Kane, Anabella V. Kelley, Lilah J. Klotz, Josephine B. Kubicek, Rayne P. Mangin, Isabella L. McConville, Raygen M. McKeag, Ian J.McShane, Addison, C. McSparin, Catalina J.Meis, Faith N. Mierop, Natalie R .Minnaert-Yocum, Ainsleigh K. Misfeldt, Keelie M . Mueller, Micah J. Nicke, Anastasia M. Pitsoulakis, Aleksie F. Possin, William Rankins, Arianna L. Robbins, Macey M. Rosholm, Ida G. Rowold, Ella J. Schaaf, Meghan M. Scheider, Brooklyn J. Schnowske, Jaxson J. Seals, Ella R. Shannon, Alyssa C. Simpson, Stella M. Smith, Addison K. Snell, Sophia G. Snell, Sydney M. State, Addilyn G. Swan, Ella C. Taylor, Keiran L. Thornburg, Luca J. Turigliatti, Kellen E. VanKerrebroeck, Eden P. VanOpdorp, Patrick J. Versluis, Kailee L. Von Motz, Nicole E. Werling, Hannah M. Wildemuth, Sage R. Windisch, Peyton A. Woodruff

Second Honor Roll - GPA 3.00 to 3.49

Class of 2025

Joshua W. Anderson Jr., Rachael L. Bauer, Camden F. Baumgardner, Mason J. Bealer, Gage K. Buckallew, Madisyn P. Buysse, Dylon R. DeBoef, Erica A. DeDecker, Jenna D. DeKezel, Connor J. Douglas, Emma G. Drockelman, Alan C. Eastburn, Kierra A. Eighmy, Addison R. Espe, Isabella G. Fletcher, Kaylee R. Floming, Cole R. Freeman, Brady J. Hamer, Taylor L. Hawkins, Savannah E. Holley, Leandro O. Ingoglia, Avery M. Kennedy, Owen M. King, Bailey L. Koning, Rylan P. Lambert, Chloe E. Medler, Nickalus D. Morris, Amber M. Newell, Dylan M. Pankey, Jack W. Polowy, Kaleb D. Rahn, Antonio R. Ramirez, Xzavier D. Reuter, Tristan S. Robinson, Ava D. Rusk, Rylie M. Rusk, Nile W. Ryerson, Ava R. Sedam, Ryan T. Shanley, Callaghan Sheehan, Bryson D. Splear, Charlie E. Stetter, Jacob C. Taylor, Carter J. VanOpdorp, Jaylyn E. Wakenight, Angelicze P. Wendland, Kaylee F. Wood

Class of 2026

Harrison J .Air, Bella M. Bailey, Fiona K. Bailey, Lincoln M. Barnett, Grady A. Bernahl, Brennan A. Brown, Kamron L. Burris, Rylen M. Chambless, Joei J. Christopherson, Mylee R. Clark, Liam J. Coleman, Noah M. Darif, Tyler R. Dowdal, Kaydee A. Eighmy, Quinnland J. Einfeldt, Perry N. Farley, Breckan A .Gomez, Jessa N. Gramling, Dalten B. Grimes, Jacob D. Holley, Alfredo E. Jimenez, Cedric J. Kehoe, Peyton R. Kies, Charlotte M. Kroll, Devan M. Lagaisse, Alegna S. Lopez, Emma A. Massingill, Owen M. Maxwell, Jaiden M. Minnaert, Isaac J. Nixon, Landon B. Nordstrom, Mahi P. Patel, Shrey Patel, Michael D. Peterson, Meya R. Pollock, Haile J. Porter, Hayden S. Schaaf, Nina E. Schmedding, Mckinsey J. Sharp, Alexander E. Snyder, Maddie L. Steinert, Izabella R. Stewart, Kwin VanKerrebroeck, Kye L. Weinzierl, Evelyn G. Wendland, Kayleigh M. Wooden

Class of 2027

Mackenzie L. Air, Flynn M. Arnett, Alexandra J. Bagby, Payton R. Boone, Evan J. Brooks, Wyatt W. Bruce, Brendan M. Cooksey, Phoenix R. Corlew, Aiden J. DeCap, Griffin C. DeWolfe, Andre P. Diediker, Madelyn J. Farnum, Adam A. Flondo,r Ethan R. Galloway, Lilyann M. Garza, Tyler R. Gross, Kylei R. Hammond, Kiersten M. Hancock, Jayden A. Harrington, Keely E. Henry, Cheyenne E. Hopkey, Megan P. Hursman, Trenton J. Kennedy, Matthew A. Kerschieter, Aksel B. Kincaid, Jack A. Kreiss, Gannon J. Marckese, Zackery A. Nanninga, Carson R. Peters, Maddison J. Rakestraw, Sydney M. Rasmussen, Lillian M. Roodhouse, Finnegan A. Schaad, Kie J. Smith, Lilly G. Stubbs, Easton A. Swan, Emerson J. Swan, Kaden J. VanAntwerp, Jensen D. Vroman, Connor M. Webster, Landon D. Weimer, AvaLynn G. Westfall, Jayden A. Wexell, Ryder J. Whitney, Alexis J. Williams

Class of 2028

Piper M. Andersen, Layna Z. Bassett, Logan L. Betcher, Allison M. Boone, Makayla R. Bros, Sophie L. Carter, Dawsyn E. Ceurvorst, Greyson F. Claerhout, Ella K. Clementz, Brinnley P. Coppejans, Lydia M. DeKezel, Gracyn P. DeShane, Sophia P. Doyle, Jack B. Drouin, Camryn N. Ebert, Gretchen A. Fuelling, Jack C. Gehling, Andrew J. Hamerlinck, Eva J. Hansen, Kalienna N. Herberg, James H. Hill III, Caimbrie O. Jozwiak, Anadiyah M. Karn, Noah J. Klick, Penelope A. Kline, Mayson J. Lambin, Taylor R. Lohberg, Isaiah J. Melton, Jason J. Milem, Alice M. Miller, Madison J. Morrison, Quin R. Nichols, Evan M. Orwig, Jadynn B. Pollard, Colin M. Roemer, Dylan J. Schneider, Emma T. Sebastian, Madelyn E. Sherman, Maycie L. Sims, Kyla K. Strode, Chase M. VanDeWoestyne. Jayden C. Wheaton

Food Pantry Sees Large Increase in Number of Families Served - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Residents may notice a large bright and shiny red van in the area and wonder who owns the vehicle. The Geneseo-Atkinson Food Pantry (GAFP) is the new owner of the 1999 Ford van, a gift from the congregation at Grace United Methodist Church in Geneseo…And a welcome gift, according to Mike Sigwalt, director of the food pantry.

Sigwalt shared that the pantry has been realizing a steady increase in the number of families served, since he became director in 2021.

“Looking at our last fiscal year, October 2023 through September 2024, and comparing that to the prior fiscal year, we had experienced an average increase of 57 percent in the number of families served,” he said. “By the end of Sept. 2024, we had set a new record of 278 families served.”

Mike Sigwalt, director of the Geneseo-Atkinson Food Pantry, explained the above chart: “When we implemented our ‘open geography’ we monitored where our pantry were coming form so we could gauge the impact of this decision,” he added. “The chart shows where the pantry guests are coming from.”

When Sigwalt began his position at the food pantry in August of 2021, there were 47 families served, in comparison to the 387 families served in November of 2024, which is a record month so far.

And the number of families served by the local food pantry has continued to increase, Sigwalt said….”So far this fiscal year, October through December 2024, we have served an average of 350 families per month, which is a 64 percent increase in the number of families served over the same period in the prior fiscal year.”

GAFP has actively worked with area retailers to “rescue food” for use in the food pantry and Sigwalt explained, “With the increase in the number of families we serve, we have increased the number of retailers we work with to ‘rescue food. We have been modestly successful in expanding the amount of food we’ve rescued from retailers. We had been averaging rescuing about 3,300 pounds of food each month. The increase in the retailers we work with has resulted in an average increase in the amount of food rescued.”

In December of 2024, the local pantry rescued 8,200 pounds (four tons) of food and Sigwalt said that large of volume is not anticipated each month, “but we are expecting to recover about 5,000 pounds of food each month.”

“As the family volumes have increased, the amount of food we need to secure has also increased,” he added, explaining that in the past the food pantry staff has used their personal vehicles for the food rescue, but those vehicles are increasingly becoming too small for the amount of food needed to secure.

“In addition to food rescue, we also go to the area food banks to pick up food and the amount we order is frequently limited by the amount we are able to carry,” he said. “Having the new van will help us in our continual quest to obtain sufficient food for our pantry guests.”

In expressing his thanks for the church donating the van to the food pantry, Sigwalt said, “Grace United Methodist Church’s generosity is really greatly appreciated! For in-town food acquisitions, it has not been uncommon for us to have to make more than one trip to secure all the food. Additionally, as we’ve expanded our search for additional food retailers to work with, we have several which are located out side of Geneseo, and it wouldn’t be practical to make more than one trip to these locations. And we’ll be able to order more through our food banks.”

DOES THE FOOD PANTRY SERVE MORE THAN ATKINSON AND GENESEO?

The Geneseo-Atkinson Food Pantry has long been required to serve families outside of the immediate area, Sigwalt said, and explained, “A particular grantor we work with requires us to serve every person who comes to the food pantry, regardless of where they reside. We have always strived to create a welcoming environment at GAFP…Hunger does not recognize geography, neither should we.”

“We have helped people obtain food who happened to hit hard times at ‘Exit 19 on I-80’ as they traveled from Utah to New York. We have served countless homeless people. We have helped a number of people who are in need of assistance simply because it’s the compassionate thing to do.”

The pantry director added that a number of the grantors and government agencies the GAFP works with increasingly requires them to serve everyone who comes to the local pantry doors seeking assistance…;”More specifically, there are some rules from River Bend Food Bank which would seem to imply we should accept all who come to our doors.”

As of Jan. 1, the Illinois Department of Human Services has mandated that the food pantry: “no longer collect a photo identification card, a piece of mail, residency documentation, or any other such similar documents for The Emergency Food Assistance Program eligibility.”

Sigwalt said he is aware of rumors on social media and other channels that suggest the GAFP is serving more people outside of the immediate are that they are serving families living within the Geneseo School District…”The rumor is based on concerns regarding our lifting geographic restrictions for people receiving food and clothing from GAFP,” he explained. “It is true, we have lifted geographic restrictions. This was done primarily for a grantor requiring we do not turn anyone away who requires food from our pantry. Since we had been serving the homeless and transient people requiring assistance, requiring a specified geographic service area for food distribution seemed superfluous and the process ran contrary to many of our agreements with our upstream partner agencies.” (See chart).

“The blue and orange show the GAFP families served, respectively,” he said. “As the chart shows, about 79 percent of the families served are from Geneseo and Atkinson. Significantly, the data demonstrates we have not been ‘neglecting’ Geneseo or Atkinson families as seems to have been recently rumored. In fact, the number of Geneseo and Atkinson families we serve has continued to increase.”

“One side benefit has emerged by tracking the demographics of our pantry visitors,” he added. “We have been able to identify the ‘food deserts’ existing in the area and we have been working with River Bend Food Bank, the University of Illinois Extension, and other area agencies to develop potential solutions for these’ food deserts’.”

(“Food deserts” are communities lacking grocery stores and also lack a food pantry serving their community).

Sigwalt provided examples: “We do not want families to travel excessive miles for pantry food, and through our collaborative efforts with our agency partners, we may be able to finally address some of the underlying catalysts for area food-insecurity.”

 

Grace Church Gives Church Van to Food Pantry - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Geneseo-Atkinson Food Pantry now has a van, a gift from the congregation at Grace United Methodist Church in Geneseo.

According to food pantry and church staff, the vehicle will be put to good use.

Karen Doy, who is president of the Missions Committee at Grace Church, and who also serves on the food pantry board, shared how the idea happened to give the van to the food pantry…”At the November board meeting of the food pantry, Mike Sigwalt, director of the food pantry, shared that there are a record number of guests using the pantry. He also mentioned that due to the increased workload, River Bend Food Pantry is no longer picking up from Silvis Wal-Mart, Jewel-Osco and Aldi grocery stores. River Bend offered local food pantries could pick up what they wanted and what they would e able to pick up.

Doy added that the additional amount of food would really help meet the local food pantry’s large demand

She said she and Sigwalt talked after that November meeting….”I felt that it was not feasible for the Pantry employees’ vehicles to be utilized due to traveling distance and quantity of food. Geneseo donations also often require multiple trips due to the size of personal vehicles.”

Mike Sigwalt, left, director of the Geneseo-Atkinson Food Pantry, accepts the keys to the van in the photograph from Brian Humphries, president of the Grace United Methodist Church Board of Trustees; and Karen Doy, president of the Missions Committee at Grace Church and also a board member of the food pantry. The van was donated to the food panty from Grace Church. Photo by Claudia Loucks

HOW GRACE CHURCH CHOSE TO DONATE THE VAN:

As president of the Missions Board at Grace Church, Doy attended a Grace Church Council meeting where she learned that the church was no longer using the church van and a question was asked as to whether the van should be sold.

“No decision was made at that time,’ Doy said, but it was at that time when she emailed Brian Humphries, who serves as chairperson of the Board of Trustees at Grace Church, to ask if the church would be interested in selling the van…”I explained why it would help the Pantry. It was through discussions of the boards involved that a decision was made to donate the van to the food pantry.”

Brian Humphries shared that the decision to donate the van was made by the Church Trustees with final approval made by the Grace Church Council...”Use of the van has decreased greatly since Covid. So, while the van was still in good running condition, it made sense to allocate this resource where the need was greater.”

The 1999 Dodge van purchased new by the church in 1999 and its current mileage is 70,000.

“While the van has been used sporadically in the past few years, we felt that it would be used more frequently by the food pantry,” Humphries said. “After all, vehicles need to be driven to stay in good working condition…”I’m so glad we were able to contribute to the food pantry by donating the van which will, in turn, benefit the community.”

Other church members who were involved in making the donation happen include Steve Wildemuth, who made sure the van was in good running condition.

Doy added, ”Steve and I met Mike Sigwalt on a Saturday to test drive the van and Mike thought it sounded, looked and drove like a wonderful Christmas present.”

Kirk Hodgson of Pinks’ Paint and Body Shop in Geneseo, was responsible for removing all exterior decals as well as seats and seat belts, at no cost.

And Mike Sigwalt’s appreciation was evident with the big smile he had when given the keys to the van…”Having the van will help us in our continual quest to obtain sufficient food for our pantry guests. Grace United Methodist Church’s generosity is really greatly appreciated! For in-town food acquisitions, it has not been uncommon for us to have to make more than one trip to secure all the food. Additionally, as we’ve expanded our search for additional food retailers to work with, we have several which are located outside of Geneseo (specifically Silvis and Kewanee) and it wouldn’t be practical to make more than one trip to these locations. And we’ll be able to order more through our food banks.”

 

Miss Henry County Fair Attends State Pageant

Cambridge, IL - Johnna Fulcher, 20, of Geneseo, is no stranger to competition. As a young girl, she fell in love with the game of soccer, playing all through high school and eventually becoming the team captain for Black Hawk College’s Women’s Soccer team. But Fulcher will be trading in her cleats next weekend for an evening gown and a pair of heels as she competes in the 2025 Miss Illinois County Fair Queen pageant.

The upcoming competition will be Fulcher’s second ever pageant experience. Her first being the Miss Henry County Fair queen pageant, which she won on her first attempt in June.

Johnna Fulcher

“Sitting in grandstands watching the Henry County Pageant was a bit of a summer staple for me,” said Fulcher. “Year after year, I’d go to watch my friends compete and eventually I thought I should give it a try too. I never would have predicted that I’d be the one winning the crown, but I’ve had such a wonderful time being Miss Henry County Fair.”

Fulcher spent her summer reigning over the Henry County Fair, which took place June 18 through the 23. She also traveled to many surrounding county pageants to meet and congratulate their new queens. However, Fulcher says the most rewarding part about being queen has been spending time in her community.

“I’ve loved being able to volunteer throughout the community,” said Fulcher. “There have been so many events I’ve been able to help with and I’ve loved witnessing how Henry County comes together to support one another.”

Fulcher will compete for the state title Jan. 16-19 at the Crowne Plaza in Springfield. The state pageant is held in conjunction with the annual convention of county fairs, the Illinois Association of Agricultural Fairs (IAAF).

“I’m really looking forward to the state pageant and experiencing this once in a lifetime opportunity,” she said. “It’ll be really fun to bond with other queens from different counties and I know whatever the outcome is, I’ll learn so much from this weekend.”

Fulcher is contestant number 60 of the 74 young women competing in this year’s pageant. Each contestant will have a four-minute interview with the panel of judges, and will also compete in evening gown, swimsuit, and speech categories.

The top 16 finalists will be announced on Sunday, Jan. 19. Each finalist will re-compete in the evening gown, swimsuit, and speech categories. They will also be judged on three pop questions. The 2025 Miss Illinois County Fair Queen will be chosen and crowned that evening.

Fulcher is the daughter of David and Margo Hone, of Geneseo. She is currently a sophomore at Black Hawk College, planning to continue her education at Carl Sandburg College to become a dental hygienist. She is currently a member of the Black Hawk College Student Athlete Leadership Council and InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. She is in the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, is an honors student at Black Hawk College, and was selected for the All-Regional Soccer Team Award.

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.”

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.”