Art Work in Observance of Black History Month at RutabagA

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Artist Isaiah (Zay) Williams, Rock Island, is shown by his painting titled “Fury and Peace,” which is included in a display of art work at RutabagA Studio and Gallery in downtown Geneseo. He explained the painting in the photograph was inspired by a scene from the movie “Creed II.”

Williams’ paintings are at RutabagA in observance of February being Black History Month.

In addition to being an artist, Williams is an actor, poet, activist, entrepreneur and designer.

He uses mostly acrylics in his paintings, but also uses a variety of mediums and styles including mixed media.

He added that he “believes God gave him a gift and he wants to use his gifts to not only create, but also inspire others around him.”

Also, in observance of Black History Month, Rutabaga has a collection of art work by Sharon Michaelsen and Joyce Mattan, Geneseo; and by Jeanne O’Melia, Princeton.

RutabagA Studio is open from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Photo by Claudia Loucks

Valentine’s Day Celebration at GHS

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Special deliveries off Crush soda were made to students at Geneseo High School Friday in observance of Valentine’s Day. The cans of soda were delivered “anonymously,” and the recipient was able to return the empty can and pay 50 cents to Student Council to find out who has a “crush” on them. Ready to make some deliveries are, from left, Mickayla Bowles, Jacey Gehl, and Quinn Cherry. The Valentine’s Day events are sponsored by GHS Student Council. Claudia Loucks Photos

Ready to make their deliveries of Crush soda are, from left, Lillian Bellagamba, Caroline Girten, Eleanor Bertelsen, and William Rankins.

Geneseo High School student Annabelle Ropp received a singing telegram on Valentine’s Day from GHS vocalists, from left, Tyler Holtzen, JJ Mooney, Paxton Sherbeyn, Logan VanDeWoestyne, Carter Eastburn, and Dylan Gehl.

Several Geneseo High School students received singing telegrams on Friday, Feb. 14, in observance of Valentine’s Day. Student Council sponsors the event each year when students pay a minimal amount of money to hire groups of student vocalists from the high school choir to deliver Valentine’s Day greetings in song.
Recipients of the Valentine greetings included, Dominic Ritter, surrounded by, from left, Shay Schehl, Taylor Hawkins, Elanor DeBlieck, Beth Mroz, Sophia Clifton, Elizabeth Lane, Kara Sancken, Emilia Schmitt, Clara Huddleston, Jordan Thomas, and Hope Kuster.

Geneseo Park District Is An Exceptional Workplace

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Geneseo Park District received the Exceptional Workplace Award at the Soaring to New Heights Conference.

Information received states the award is administered by the IPRA (Illinois Park and Recreation Association) to recognize agencies that show a commitment to the well-being of their employees. The premise behind the IPRA “Exceptional Workplace” award goes beyond encouraging employees to count calories and add physical activity to their day. It encompasses implementing multiple dimensions of wellness to develop a balanced life.

Andy Thurman, Geneseo Park District Executive Director, said, “The Geneseo Park District has undergone a voluntary evaluation process to showcase our commitment to fostering a well-balanced life for employees from the inside out. This recognition reflects our dedication to supporting six key dimensions of wellness: physical activity, social, emotional, intellectual, spiritual and environmental. Through initiatives like monthly staff challenges, a rotating fun staff video board, and provided healthy snacks and prizes, we continue to enhance workplace wellness. This award reaffirms that our policies and programs create a positive and engaging work-life experience for our team.”

Your Grade of Intelligence - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

Happy Valentine’s Day

Many folks know that Valentine’s Day is named after St. Valentine. The problem is, there were two St. Valentines. Nobody knows for sure if the holiday originated with St. Valentine in Rome, or the other one in Terni, Italy?
In the 1300s, Valentine’s Day officially became a holiday associated with love. It was believed that February 14 was the start of birds’ mating season. Birds and romance had a connection.
Lorna and I became engaged on Valentine’s Day in her classroom at the junior high school in Barstow, IL. On that special day we always celebrate at The Cellar.

Like Father Like Son

Dennie Howell recently got a nice buck with his bow ‘n arrow. Not to be outdone, his dad, Mitch Howell, Colona, got a deer with his shotgun during this past shotgun season. Mitch got his deer on an island on the Mississippi River. Looks like there will be plenty of venison dinners as the winter goes on.

A Matter of Taste

Okay, bats see with their ears, snakes smell with their tongue and butterflies’ taste through their feet. The female monarch butterfly can taste if a plant is okay for her larvae to eat.
However, the process is not perfect as sometimes she can be tricked into laying her eggs on an invasive plant species causing the larvae to die within a few days.

Yay, Pancakes and the Trimmings

Just a second reminder that the Geneseo Boy Scout Troop 100 will host their “Annual Boy Scout Pancake Breakfast” on Sunday, February 16, 2025, from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Geneseo Moose Lodge. It’s only 7 bucks per adult and kids age 5 & under, free! C-U there!!

Geneseo Museum History Restarts

This was good news. Steve Kastorff, retired teacher, author and lecturer, told me that the Geneseo Historical Museum will be host to various monthly history talks at the museum.
Angie Snook started the programs some years ago and the talks were based more on the Civil War. As time went on, the one hour lectures covered both local and world history events. Besides Angie, she brought in other local speakers to present history related programs.
I’m not sure when the new programs are going to start, but I’m sure the new curator will get the word out. While Angie is retired from her years as the museum’s curator, I’m sure she will continue on the lecture circuit. She is an amazing lady.

Rock Falls Firearm Frenzy

This 50 new gun raffle is presented by Ducks Unlimited & Rock Falls, IL. It will be held at the McCormick Event Center, 205 E. 3rd St., Rock Falls, IL. The event will be on Saturday, February 22, 2025, with doors open at 11:00 a.m.
Each $25.00 ticket includes a chance on the 50 gun raffle, food, beverages and a chance on $3500 cash door prizes. If any questions contact Rodney Schlafer @ events@ducks.org.

Ice Fishing Report

Last Tuesday morning Lorna and I tried our luck on the hard water. We fished the main lake at Giant Goose, Atkinson. There was about 9” of good ice.
We fished for about 2 hours and brought home 13 bluegills. We got some small “dinks” and let them go. Jigs and waxies are what the ‘gills wanted for breakfast.

Bait for Fishing

As most of you anglers know, Carbon Cliff Bait & Tackle is no longer in business. Living in Colona, it was just a “hop, skip ‘n a jump” for me to purchase bait, especially minnows, worms, waxies, etc. I was spoiled!
In Geneseo, you used to be able to get waxies and worms at Farm & Fleet. However, I have not seen their small refrigerator that contained waxies and worms for sale. So, long story short, that leaves two locations in which to get both bait and tackle. That is Porter’s Village Gas Station on Rt. 84 west, Hampton, IL., or E-Z Livin’ Sports Center, 231 1st Ave W., Milan, IL.
Porter’s is about 15 minutes closer to our home than E-Z Livin.’ E-Z Livin’ is a half-hour run from home, but they have a larger array of fishing equipment. The phone # for E-Z Livin’ is (309) 787-2244. The phone # for Porters is (309) 755-3862.

Geneseo DU Gun Bingo

“Bingo!” This event should be fun. The Geneseo Ducks Unlimited are hosting a “Gun Bingo” on Sunday, March 9, 2025. It will be held at The Black Ridge, 123 N. Prospect St., Cambridge, IL.
There will be guns, bingo, games, raffles, fun and auctions. Geeez, can they offer anything more? I think not!!!
The cost is $80 per person and while you might think that’s a bit steep, it includes entry, food, DU membership, 8 games of Bingo prize for each game is a gun or $400 bucks in cash. Food and soda will be provided – BYOB.
All this is limited to 100 individuals. Must be age 18 to play bingo. Doors will open at 11 a.m., Lunch at 11:30 a.m. Bingo at 1 p.m. Too bad they couldn’t add a dunking tank with Dale “Double Barrel” Doubler as the person falling in the tank. I mean, he’s all wet anyway!!!! If you need more information go to: www.geneseodu.org

Indian Navy Cadets Parade Dance

Okay U.S. Navy Vets and everyone else. I want you to go to your computer and type in “The Hornpipe Dance by Sea Cadets/Indian Navy Dance 2024.” Make sure you. click on the “2024” version. One can interpret the dance to tasks by sailors aboard ship. Very cool.

Rude & Tacky

The next time ‘yer in Quebec, keep your hands where they can be seen. Talking with your hands in your pockets is considered rude. If you want to be tacky, yawn in public when in Ecuador.
Lastly, do not relate to your friends that you read, “Dan D Outdoors.” Your grade of intelligence will be considered low.

Quote of the Week

“All men think all men mortal, but themselves!”

• Edward Young

Murray N. Singbush ~ September 24, 1933 - February 8, 2025

Murray N. Singbush, 91, of Chandler, AZ, formerly of Geneseo, passed away peacefully Saturday, February 8, 2025.  Private family services will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s Association (https://act.alz.org/)

He was born September 24, 1933 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada to John and Blanche Singbush. Murray was a great lover of hockey and his talent led to a position as a defenseman in the farm league for the Montreal Canadiens.  He served a brief enlistment in the Royal Canadian Navy and married his wife, Marilyn, in Vancouver, British Columbia in July 14, 1954.  

Murray moved to the United States in 1957 where he began a career in industrial equipment sales.  He retired from Deere & Company, Moline, IL in 1986 as Manager of OEM Sales, an organization he was responsible for establishing.  He was cited as a pioneer in the development of what became a major diversification program for the company.  Upon retiring, Murray and Marilyn sold the family home in Geneseo, IL and enjoyed many years traveling throughout the U.S., Canada, and Costa Rica.  Murray’s “second retirement” was to Casa Grande, Arizona.

Murray did not want to be remembered for his career accomplishments, but for what he most valued:

• His devoted and adventure-filled, 70 years of marriage to his wife, Marilyn

• His love of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren

• His many friendships

• His 42 years of sobriety 

Murray was preceded in death by his parents, sister Helen, and brother Gary.  He is survived by his wife Marilyn, his children Lynn (Kevin), Kim, Norm (Becky), Robin (Rick), and Ford (Andrea). Grandchildren, Paige, Brittani, Rayce, Quinn, Ryan, Reid, Blake, Lauren, Drew, Broc, J.P., Tony and many beautiful great grandchildren!

Murray strove to live a life of meaning and purpose, not in grand gestures, but in everyday moments that uplifted those around him.

Condolences may be expressed in Murray’s obituary at www.stackhousemoore.com.

Maple City Cruisers Seeking New Members - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

What once was known as the Geneseo Car Club became the Maple City Cruisers in 2006. The group continues to meet and would like to have other car enthusiasts join them.

Meetings are held at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday (Feb. 25) of each month at the Geneseo Moose Lodge. The meeting night is the same night as Taco Tuesday at the Moose and some members of the group arrive early in time to eat tacos.

Jerry Snodgrass, president of the club, said members do not have to own a classic or antique car, truck or motorcycle, and added, “You just need to have an interest in these types of vehicles.”

The group does plan cruises when the weather cooperates and Snodgrass said those trips are usually to restaurants or places of interest.

The big project of the year for the Maple City Cruisers is the car show held in September in conjunction with Trains, Planes and Automobiles event in Geneseo.

Membership includes a “small amount in dues,” Snodgrass said, and added, “Anyone interested in more information about the club is invited to our monthly meeting.”

For more information, call Snodgrass at 309-945-6564.

SOME HISTORY OF THE MAPLE CITY CRUISERS

Prior to 2005 the Maple City Cruisers were known as the Geneseo Car Club and Jerry Snodgrass, club president, said, “In 2005, Dawn Tubbs was executive director of the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce and she encouraged the club to become more organized.”

In 2006, the name Maple City Cruisers was selected and the first car show was held in downtown Geneseo.

Snodgrass said the idea for the car show came from Dawn Tubbs, “not as a Chamber of Commerce show, but as a show that would bring more business to the downtown merchants. Dawn organized getting a steam locomotive and cars here to give rides that year. It was during the first Trains, Planes and Automobiles show.”

Garden Club to Meet Feb. 20

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Garden Club will meet at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 20, at the Geneseo Public Library, 805 North Chicago St., Geneseo.

Josh Spensley, of CE Ford & Sons, Inc., will present the program on lawn care and grasses. He will also answer questions from the group about lawns.

Refreshments will be served by Barb Schlotfeldt and Linda Washburn. Guests are welcome to attend the meeting.

Montez Name Will Long Be Remembered by Wrestling Fans - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Zachary Montez will graduate this spring from Geneseo High School and he will leave behind a legacy in wrestling that will long be remembered.

Montez, the son of Jesse Montez and Sarah Montez, climbed to the top by breaking the all-time career-wins record when he collected his 167th win in the last home dual meet of his career when the Leafs defeated Rock Island 57-14. The previous record of 166 wins has been held by Adam Sheley since 2009.

For now, he is looking to the future of his wrestling career at GHS and to his fourth appearance at the State Wrestling Tournament. When asked about his favorite wrestling memory, he said, “If everything goes as planned, it will be winning an individual state title as well as a team title in the next few weeks.”

Not long after breaking the all-time varsity career wins record at GHS in January, Montez continued his pursuit of breaking records with his fourth straight Western Big 6 Conference Title the next day as he led the Leafs to their 4th WB6 title in six years. (There was no tournament in 2021 due to Covid)

The Leafs won the WB6 Conference title at Sterling with a record 240 points with Quincy coming in a distant 2nd place with 190 points.

The 165-pound Montez was voted the WB6 Wrestler of the Year as he became the first ever 4 x WB6 Tournament Champion. His teammate and workout partner Kye Weinzierl notched career #100 as he won the 175-pound Conference Title with a pin fall in the finals. The Leafs “Terrible Twosome” have a combined season record of 73-2 with 11 tournament titles between them this season.

Montez continued to dominate his opponents as he won his fourth IHSA Regional title and led the Leafs to their third straight Regional team title in Dixon, where he set yet another record as the only Geneseo wrestler to capture 4 IHSA Regional titles and he moved on to a 37-0 record for the season.

Reaching his 100th win in wrestling when in his junior year at GHS in the finals of the first tournament of the wrestling season, Rockford East, on Dec. 2, 2023. He said he was not aware he was at 100 wins and his accomplishment was not recognized until the home meet one week later when Geneseo went against Sterling.

He said, “I was excited to reach 100 wins and join my brother Anthony as a 100-match winner.”

When asked about wrestling being an individual sport, Montez replied, “For me, it’s never been too much of an individual sport. I’ve always had my brother to follow and cheer for me and then all my Blue Line teammates like Kye, Isaac, Tim, Devan, Grady, and Maliki. So, the team aspect has always been just as big as the individual part for a lot of us growing up.”

With just a short time left until the Individual State Wrestling Tournament beginning Feb. 20 in Champaign, Montez will attempt to join his older brother Anthony as only the fourth wrestler in GHS history to qualify to become a four-time State Qualifier – Anthony Montez, Hunter Grau and Adam Sheley are the only GHS wrestlers to qualify for the IHSA State Tournament in all four years of high school.

If Zachary Montez qualified for the state Tournament and places in the Top 6, he will be the first-ever wrestler in GHS history to have placed all four years in high school as he has previously placed 4th, 3rd, and 3rd.

ZACHARY MONTEZ’S LEGENDAY WRESTLING JOURNEY

Zachary Montez began wrestling at the age of four and he explained, “I didn’t have much of a choice as I just followed my brother Anthony. I also played football and baseball growing up and I continued to play football in high school, but chose not to play my senior year so I could focus on winning a state wrestling title.”

The Geneseo standout wrestler shared that he has “grown up watching wrestling my whole life. My brother and I have been in wrestling rooms since before we could even walk. My goal has always been to be the best. So, from the time I started wrestling, I’ve always had to chase the success of my Dad (Jesse Montez also had a storied wrestling career in his days at GHS) and brother which hasn’t been easy. I feel like it’s been an unfair advantage for me to have not just my Dad training me, but also my brother (Anthony)…Anthony has been my biggest fan and pushed me to be better, even better than him. I think that’s probably been one of the biggest keys to my success, my brother Anthony. So, the influence has really helped my success for sure.”

In addition, to their Dad, the Montez brothers had some coaching from their Grandpa, Louis Montez, who shared his coaching knowledge with them as well as he did with his son and their Dad, Jessie Montez. Louie Montez was the Geneseo Middle School wrestling coach for almost 20 years.

When asked to comment about what wrestling means to him and how his coaches have influenced him, Montez answered, “Anthony and I have always had wrestling as our main sport and influence in our lives. Our Dad (Jesse) has trained us for not just wrestling success, but life success. Then our Mom (Sarah Montez) has been the best wrestling Mom we could ask for and has definitely helped with all our success as well. Be a good student, and everything else falls into place.”

He added, “We have been very fortunate to have Coach Murray leading us through our high school careers, but then you add Coaches Rusk, Babcock, Kreiner, Smith, Verbeck and Cropp and I don’t think anyone could ask for more!”

SOME FUN COMMENTS FROM MONTEZ:

-Advice for young wrestlers: “Listen to your coaches, believe in your training, and have fun!

-Favorite food – “Spaghetti.”

-What are you looking forward to most after wrestling season: “Making my decision on where I will continue my academic and athletic career.”

Special Exhibit at Smith Studio & Gallery

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Photography by Artist Craig Miller of Coal Valley will be featured through March at the Smith Studio and Gallery, 124 South State St., downtown Geneseo. The Studio and Gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and closed Sunday and Monday.

David Smith, owner-operator of Smith Studio, said, “This Coal Valley artist is exhibiting photographs that capture street images from the world he artistically observes. Craig has always had an eye for the offbeat that can be found in any community. This exhibition is a review of some of the best of his ‘Street Photography’. The images capture the whimsy and beauty that can be found by just taking a walk in a neighborhood.”

Smith shared that the artist will sometimes print a photograph just as it was taken, without any changes…“On other occasions he will change the photo, playing with its qualities in Photoshop to bring out the special assets he sees in the image he has captured. These alternations can be slight in appearance or they can be radical to the point of recreating the picture.”

The exhibit is free and Smith added, “Bring the children! It allows you to get a glimpse into the wonderful artwork being created in Geneseo and the Quad City area.”

Geneseo Park District Receives Distinguished Accredited Agency Award - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Congratulations are in order to the Staff and Board of the Geneseo Park District!

The Geneseo Park District has been recognized as an Illinois Distinguished Accredited Agency by the Illinois Association of Park Districts (APD) and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (PRA).

This is the third time the Geneseo Park District has received the award.

The purpose of the award is to improve the quality of life for Illinois residents and to recognize those agencies that provide exceptional Park and Recreation services to their community through a voluntary, comprehensive, professional accreditation process.

Information received from the Park District states, “Successful completion of the Distinguished Park and Recreation Accreditation process is a testament not only to the agency, but the staff, board and community with the ultimate result of improved quality of life, making Illinois the best place to live, work, and recreate,” said Suzi Wirtz, IPRA Executive Director.

Successful completion of the Distinguished Park and Recreation Accreditation process has these benefits:

-Recognition that the recreation agency provides exceptional Park and Recreation services to their community.

-Increased operational efficiency and effectiveness.

-Opportunity for updating and clarifying policies and procedures.

-Meet professional standards for facilities and services.

-Acknowledges elected officials as effective and efficient guardians of the public interest in parks and recreation, and of the public resources provided for recreation opportunities.

-Acknowledged as employing qualified professionals.

-Recognized as a leader in the State of Illinois in the field of parks and recreation.

Andy Thurman, Geneseo Park District Executive Director, said, “The Staff and Board of the Geneseo Park District is extremely proud to receive this award for the third time. Going through this rigorous process every five years is a testament to our commitment to excellence. The hard work and dedication over the past five years to uphold these standards and continue operating at such a high level have been tremendous. Our staff has effectively managed the records for the standards, ensuring that the Park District maintains the exceptional level of service our community expects and deserves.”

Information from the Geneseo Park District states that the GPD started the accreditation process in 2011 and received the first Illinois Distinguished Accreditation Award in November of 2012. Since that time, the Park District has continued its commitment to exceeding the highest standards in the park and Recreation profession. Because of the Board and Staff’s commitment, the Geneseo Park District was able to earn 492.58 points out of a base of 500 points. The score exceeded the minimum 440 points required to pass.

Art For The Canal

The deadline is March 29th. Get your creative cap on now!
Contact the Geneseo Art League for more details.
geneseoartleague125@gmail.com

Lil Poms Perform at GHS Boys’ Basketball

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Geneseo High School Maplettes were joined by more than 100 “future Maplettes” for the Lil Pom performance at the GHS Boys’ Basketball game vs. Orion held Feb. 8 at GHS. The dancers performed to music from “Dance the Night.” The routine was choreographed by GHS juniors Ava Brewer, Jack Cooper, Anna Davis, Paige Eastburn, Meya Pollock, Nina Schmedding, Kinsey Sharp and Maddie Wells. The Maplettes are coached by Lydia Reyburn, Michelle Fryear and Yvonne Wayne. Photos by Claudia Loucks

Grechyn Hintgen and her sister, Graysen, Hintgen, were among the dancers in the performance at the boys’ basketball game on Feb. 8

Ava DeWolfe, left, gets a hug from “future Maplette” Grechyn Hintgen.

Les Hoste’s Art Work in RutabagA Window

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Geneseo artist Les Hoste shows one of his watercolor paintings that currently is featured in the window of RutabagA Studio and Gallery at 108 North State St. in downtown Geneseo.

His display includes various scenery settings in addition to a painting of three ducks. RutabagA Gallery is open from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

Hoste is a versatile wood worker and water color artist. Retiring as a tooling engineer more than 10 years ago, he has continued his passion of creating items from wood, from end tables and doll furniture to cabinets, ornaments and more. Photo by Claudia Loucks

Farmers National Bank Announces New Board Member

Prophetstown, IL- Scott VanOpdorp has been appointed to the Board of Directors of Prophetstown Banking Co. and Farmers National Bank. Prophetstown Banking Co. is the holding company for Farmers National Bank, a community bank with over $850 million in assets and four locations in Prophetstown, Geneseo, Morrison, and Mount Carroll. VanOpdorp joins current board members Carey Bauer, William Dale, Kim Gehling, Tricia Mickley, Garett Plumley, Brad Toone, Donald Vogel, and Jeffrey Woodworth.

Scott VanOpdorp, CFO(left) is shown with President Garett Plumley

A native of Geneseo, VanOpdorp earned a Bachelor and Master of Science in Accounting at Northern Illinois University and is a Certified Public Accountant. Scott began his career in public accounting, entered the banking industry in 2006 and joined Farmers National Bank in 2010 as Assistant Vice President Accounting and Compliance. Since 2017, he has served as Chief Financial Officer and was named Vice President in 2018. Scott and his family live in Geneseo, where he is active in coaching youth sports including travel softball, baseball and bowling.

Deer Me, Time For A Drink - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

Love Pancakes & Trimmings

The Geneseo Boy Scout Troop 100 will host their 52nd Annual Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, February 16, 2025, from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
This breakfast fundraiser will be held at the Geneseo Moose Lodge. Besides delicious pancakes you get sausages, fruit, eggs, orange juice, milk and coffee.
It is a big event so get there early in case they might run out of an item or two. Well, not hardly, but just saying! It’s only $7.00 per person with kids age 5 & under, free!
Keep in mind that all proceeds stay here locally enabling scouts with their various projects.

Kiwanis Pancake Day

Time for some more pancakes and trimmings? Well, stop by the Geneseo Moose Lodge, Sunday, March 2, 2025, for the Geneseo Kiwanis “Pancake Day.”
This event is from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Kiwanians will be serving up pancakes, sausages and all the trimmings. Carry-out meals will also be available.
The cost is $7.00 per adult and children, age 10 and younger, just $3.00. Proceeds go to help serve the Kiwanis projects of the greater Geneseo area.

Record 2024 Soybean Crop

According to a report from Tony McCombie, State Rep., Dist. 89, our Prairie State had a harvest soybean record crop of 688 million bushels. The Illinois Soybean Association reported Illinois farmers had harvested beans from 10.75 million acres of Illinois land.
It works out to a yield of about 64 bushels per acre. Illinois is one of the largest concentrations of food-related businesses in the world. Soybean products can also be used to make products such as soy-based biodiesel fuel.

Deer me, time for a Drink

One of my former and good USPS bosses, John B., sent me a couple of photos of some whitetails he recently had in his backyard. He said he doesn’t feed deer, but does have a heated fountain which offers water for deer and I suspect birds, too!

Deer & Walleye

Two bucks battle it out in John B's backyard.

For Christmas our daughter gave me a 1941 published booklet on the Illinois Game and Fish Regulations. It showed that deer hunting was illegal.
So, I looked it up on the computer when deer were allowed to be hunted in Illinois. It was not allowed until October 1-15, 1957, and bow & arrow only. Only 220 deer were harvested.
In 2023, Illinois deer hunters were allowed to use a single-shot rifle and only certain calibers allowed. Ha! So, leave your .22 at home!
An Illinois hunting license in 1941 was $1.50. An Illinois fishing license that same year was .75 cents. A few places in the booklet it mentioned certain fish species. It showed walleye spelled, “Wall-eyed Pike.” Walleye and northern pike are two different species.
I remember The Cellar used to list “walleye pike” on their menu. I pointed out the mistake to server “Cindy”, and she promptly hit me over the head with a bread roll. No matter how they spelled it, it sure tasted good!

Another buck seemed to say, "Guys, you can fight

Michael Madigan

Remember this former Illinois House Speaker? I always thought he had more power than the governor. He’s going through some battles with prosecutors on bribery schemes and other deals.
So, do you think he’ll serve time? Don’t hold your breath! The crooked pathway to and from the Windy City and Springfield is a worn one!

For Seniors

I decided to take an aerobics class for seniors. I bent, twisted, gyrated, jumped up ‘n down and perspired for a good hour. However, by the time I got my sweats on, the class was over.

Humor

Why was the snowman looking through the carrots? Ans: He was picking his nose.

What do you call rubber bumpers on yachts? Ans: Shark absorbers.

Why won’t sharks eat clowns? Ans: Because they taste funny.

Quote of the Week

“I fear explanations explanatory of things explained.”

• Abraham Lincoln

GHS Junior Kye Weinzierl Notches 100th Win at Wrestling Conference Finals - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The 2024-2025 Geneseo High School wrestling season is a season to remember for team members and coaches.

In less than two months of the current season, three wrestlers have reached the 100-win-mark, and most recently, Kye Weinzierl, a junior at GHS, joined the two seniors who hit that goal, Tim Sebastian in December, and Devan Hornback in January.

Weinzierl, son of Brad and Jami Weinzierl, reached the elite group at the Western Big 6 Conference Finals held Jan. 31 in Sterling, when he wrestled Deanthony Simpson of Moline.

The 175-pound Weinzierl said a memory he has of that night “was when I walked off the mat and my teammates, coaches, and family all congratulated me. All of the Geneseo fans had 100-2in signs and it meant a lot to see al of that support.”

Kyle Weinzierl not only claimed a championship at the Western Big 6 Conference wrestling meet, he also reached his 100th-win. Submitted Photo

When asked his thoughts about wrestling being an individual sport, Weinzierl agreed, but added, “Wrestling is an individual sport, but having a great supporting staff of teammates is what makes you better everyday. I have been blessed with amazing teammates who are always there for me and each other.”

He began wrestling when he was in preschool and continues to be involved in the sport as well as in football and baseball.

“I chose to wrestle because I have a lot of energy and love to push myself day-in and day-out,” he said.

It’s evident with his success that wrestling is a very important part of the young athlete’s life and he said, “Wrestling means a lot to me. I have made so many great friends from it over the years and love the challenge of pushing myself every day to become a better person on and off the mat. Our coaching staff has impacted my career a tremendous amount. They are there for me during my highs and lows and they push me to be better every day.”

Weinzierl shared a favorite memory from his many years of wrestling was “going to tournaments every weekend with my Dad when I was little.”

He has qualified for the State wrestling competition in both his freshman and sophomore years at GHS…In my sophomore year, my goal was to place and I came up short,” he said. “Coming up short has fueled me to push myself and get better every day.”

His advice to younger wrestlers is “Stay with it, it’s not always easy but the work will pay off eventually.”

When asked about his favorite food, he answered, “Steak.”

He also shared when the wrestling season is over, he looks forward to “playing baseball, lifting weights and eating a lot of food.”

Geneseo’s Friday Night Victorian Walk Becomes a Saturday Christmas Walk Tradition

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Christmas Walk tradition continues not only in Geneseo, but also with a Geneseo family who was instrumental in the Walk’s beginning.

The late Linda Kutsunis, who with her husband, George Kutsunis, founded Four Seasons and Pegasus Fine Gifts stores in Geneseo, is one of the people who was involved with the Walk in its infancy, 39 years ago, and who helped make it the success it is today.

The couple’s daughter, Katie Kutsunis, has taken over the reins of the businesses as her mother has passed and her father is semi-retired.

Katie Kutsunis also has continued in her mother’s footsteps in working to make the annual Christmas Walk a success, and she said, “Geneseo’s Christmas Walk has evolved over the years and has expanded; it just keeps getting better and better.”

In checking with Zack Sullivan, executive director of the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce, as to whether or not the Christmas Walk happened during the Covid pandemic, it did indeed happen, and he said, “Yes, the event happened during Covid, in 2020, as a hybrid live and virtual event. We did the Lighted Parade city-wide, but the tree lighting was done virtually.”

Linda Kutsunis

In an interview six years ago with the late Linda Kutsunis, she shared how her volunteer work began with the Christmas Walk. She said the event had been in existence for a couple of years when a good friend of hers, Judy Deutsch, who was on the Chamber of Commerce board at that time, told her the Chamber was looking for someone to take over chairmanship of the Walk and encouraged Kutsunis to fill that spot, and Kutsunis said, “yes.”

In our earlier conversation, Kutsunis said she never regretted saying “yes” to the Walk and she began the challenge by soliciting help from the late Clyde Walter, who at that time was Director of the Chamber.

They developed a committee and met nearly every week.

Linda Kutsunis spearheaded the Walk efforts until 1991 when she opened Pegasus, and relied more on her Walk Committee. The group planned many fundraisers, including bringing a circus to town on summer to raise money for the then “Victorian Walk.”

In my interview with Linda Kutsunis before her death, she described the Victorian Walk as a time of hoop skirts and high-laced shoes…a team of horses and buggies and bicycles built for two….and her quote at that tine, “Even though it has become the Christmas Walk, it remains a magical time of year.”

The things that made America special and great have been forged, nurtured and cherished in small towns just like Geneseo, including events like the Christmas Walk.

The Christmas Walk was known as the Victorian Walk until 2008 when it became the Christmas Walk, and Linda Kutsunis referred to both events as a “unique experience.”

The first Victorian Walk in Geneseo was held during the pre-Christmas season of 1985, the brainchild of Ann Ruble, who, with her husband, ran the Décor Shop in downtown Geneseo. Ruble had seen what was being done in the Village of East Davenport and after talking to some of the participants there, she decided a similar event on a slightly larger scale would be a natural fit for Geneseo.

For many years Geneseo’s Victorian Walk was held on a Friday night in December, and the date was later changed to Saturday to accommodate people.

In the beginning years, Geneseo received funding from the Illinois Tourism for the Victorian Walk, but that money slowly dwindled down to nothing.

The cost of the Walk is now covered by sponsorships and donations and the dedicated volunteers and loyal sponsors continue to make the Walk a magical time in Geneseo.

Kutsunis said the Victorian Walk was never meant to be a “money maker,” but rather a gift from the community to the people in the community and to the visitors who come each year from miles around. The Christmas Walk is an opportunity to showcase our wonderful Geneseo. It’s another day and another age in Geneseo.”

A CONVERSATION WITH KATIE KUTSUNIS

Katie Kutsunis said, “My Mom, Linda Kutsunis, loved the time she spent volunteering and leading the Christmas Walk Committee. I am honored to be a part of this event every year. My Mom loved Christmas and this event is the perfect way to celebrate this time of year.”

She credits the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce for the success of the Walk, and said, “The Geneseo Chamber of Commerce works so hard to plan an event that showcases our shops and restaurants and gives visitors a beautiful and fun way to enjoy a small town holiday experience.”

She added, “The business community really comes together to roll out the red carpet for the Geneseo Christmas Walk and we invite everyone to plan on attending and joining in the festivities.”

Katie Kutsunis shows some of the Christmas decorations at Pegasus Fine Gifts. The theme of the 2024 Christmas Walk was “Too Many Santas.” Photo by Claudia Loucks

The new holiday Christmas Tree, located on the corner of the boulevard at State and Second Sts., recently was introduced to the community, and Kutsunis said, “The City of Geneseo will showcase the new holiday Christmas Tree which is a gorgeous new addition for our beautiful town. Everyone should plan on taking a picture in front of the new iconic addition to Geneseo.”

The lighted parade is a huge attraction of the Walk, and immediately after the parade, people can browse the shops and see the living windows.

Kutsunis said, “Geneseo is truly magical at the holidays and the Geneseo Christmas Walk is the pinnacle of the holiday season,” Kutsunis said.

This story was previously published in the January 2025 edition of the Current Scene

Family Fun Night on Feb. 14 to Benefit Concordia Lutheran Academy

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Concordia Lutheran Academy “Squad” has planned a Valentine’s Day event for the entire family. The second annual Family Fun Night: Euchre Style will be held on Saturday, Feb. 14, at Concordia Lutheran Church, 316 South Oakwood Ave., Geneseo.

The “Squad” is bringing back this Midwest classic to Geneseo, just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Area residents are encouraged to take their love, a friend, and the kids. There will be a Lasagna Dinner, with serving beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 14, with a euchre tournament for the adults. Child care will be provided from 6:30 to 9 p.m. where the younger set will have snacks, play games and watch a movie.

Anyone needing child care is asked to register at https://forms.gle/PedUAP9g2b7E8xUz6.

Cost for the evening is a free will donation and all proceeds will directly support the Concordia Lutheran Academy, a private school for students in Kindergarten through fifth grade.

For more information, call Concordia Church office at 309-944-3993.