Maurice Nelson Receives DAR Community Service Award - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Community Service Award is defined as an award “presented to those who perform voluntary community service on a local level.”

   Maurice (Maurie) Nelson of Geneseo is the recent recipient of the DAR Community Service Award from the Geneseo Chapter DAR.

Maurice Nelson, at right, recently was presented with the DAR Community Service Award form the Geneseo Chapter DAR.   Also, in the photo are, from left, Mary Gustafson, Honorary State Regent, Illinois DAR; Cheryl Chamberlain, Community Service Chairman of the Geneseo DAR; and Nelson’s wife, Brenda Nelson. Photo by Claudia Loucks 

   According to Cheryl Chamberlain, Community Service Chairman of the Geneseo Chapter, Nelson and his wife, Brenda, are co-chairpersons of the Geneseo Aisle of Flags in Geneseo City Park when three times each year more than 900 casket flags are put in place and taken down in the park…”Much work and organization go into this to make it beautiful”: Chamberlain said.

   In a letter of recommendation for the DAR Award, the late Glen Anderson said, “The first 50 flags (in the Geneseo Aisle of Flags) flew in the park in 1981, and today there are almost 1,000.  The flags would not be possible without many volunteers gathering at 7 a.m. and returning at 2 p.m. to put up, take down, and pack them away.  Maurie is one of the original committee members of the Aisle Flags and is a driving force to recruit volunteers, and is the contact for adding a flag and storage of the flags.  I wonder if the Aisle of Flags would be what it is if it weren’t for the work and time, he puts in to keep the flags flying.  Maurie is truly deserving of recognition for the DAR Community Service Award for all the ways he serves his community and church with generosity and kindness.”

   The Rev. Laura Kamprath, pastor at First Lutheran Church in Geneseo, also recommended Nelson for the DAR Community Service Award, and in her letter, she stated, “Maurice Nelson is a force for good throughout our community, including in our church family at First Lutheran…For many years he has volunteered to lead the property and grounds ministry….He is at the church almost daily…from mowing the grass to hanging Christmas lights, to cleaning grease traps and descaling coffee makers, to changing furnace filters, and changing light bulbs.  Maurie does it all without failure.  He serves as worship leader…He has worked with others to find ways to honor Veterans in our congregation, to make sure they how much their community appreciates the sacrifices they made…When he’s not busy with one of those tasks, he’s helping out in many others ways.  He offers rides to people who don’t drive.  He helps those recovering from surgery with errands and chores.  He serves his neighbors in so many ways always with a smile.”

   In addition to his volunteer service with the Aisle of Flags, Nelson is a 70-plus gallon blood platelet donor, volunteers in the men’s’ health morning series at Hammond-Henry Hospital, drives the shuttle service at Hammond-Henry, received the Geneseo Hometown Hero Award, and is active at First Lutheran Church in Geneseo.  

   Chamberlain listed the qualifications for Community Service Award as:

  -A contribution to the community in an outstanding manner through voluntary heroic civic, benevolent service, or by organizing or participating in community activities.

  -The activity must have taken place within the past five years with no compensation.

  -Members of the DAR are eligible for this award if the service is unrelated to their DAR activities.

  -The award may not be presented toa recipient more than one time for the same achievement and may not be initiated or approved posthumously.  Approved awards may be presented posthumously.

  -A nominee may not receive more than one NSDAR award for the same accomplishment.

Land Mines and Machine Guns - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

Oh, he won’t Bite!

  How many times I heard that in all my 17 years of carrying mail and dealing with “friendly” dogs. Now I like dogs, but they could be a problem for we letter carriers. I had a few dog bites while some had more and some had less. 
Last month was “USPS National Dog Bite Awareness.”  Sometimes I had to “bite my lip” when a dog owner would come out of their house and assure me that “Fido” was harmless.  “Yeah, right, and the liquid flowing from my calf is ketchup!” One time a big dog jumped its fence and caused a bad bite on a Moline carrier’s face. 
Although most bites were on the leg or ankle.  It was sometime in the ‘60s when the USPS issued each carrier a small spray bottle called “Halt.”  It kind of worked if you aimed it at the dog’s face and there were no strong winds to redirect the spray.
Of course, some dog owners complained. Sometimes mail was held at the Post Office until the dog was tied or was no longer a threat. That probably still holds true today.  Illinois was ranked 4th for USPS dog attacks in 2024.

Books

  Last month we flew out to Boston and Cape Cod for a week. On the last day we visited the USS Constitution and Museum in Boston. It was really nice. While there I bought a book entitled, The Book of Old Ships.”  I thought it would be a good read, but for me, I was glad to finish the book. The author was way too confusing plus one had to have a knowledge on the nomenclature of ships from about the 14th to 19th century. 
For Father’s Day our son, Lance, sent me a really good book entitled, “The Forgotten 500” by Gregory A. Freeman. It’s about one of the greatest rescue missions of WW2. One of those books you just cannot set down.

Fourth of July

   Just a reminder the Maple City Band will present some really good patriotic music in the Geneseo’s Band Shell starting at 1 p.m. Of course, you have to stop at the Kiwanis building for “Pork in the Park.”  After which you must stop at the Maple City Band Dessert Tent for great desserts. All donations are welcome. I wish we could be there, but we have a family reunion to go to in Iowa.

Aircraft carrier in Kewanee

  Ha! Well, not physically, but on Monday, July 28, I will present a program to members of the Henry County Genealogical Society. It starts at 1:30 p.m. at the Kewanee Library, 102 S. Tremont, Kewanee, IL.  I think you will find it interesting.

Keep away Garden Raiders

   It’s not just deer who raid our vegetable and flower gardens. Lately I’ve heard a lot of grumbling about other opportunists who have a late dinner under cover of darkness. Trouble is, besides us and deer, rabbits, chipmunks, racoons and daytime squirrels enjoy lettuce, beans, tomatoes, flowers, etc. Even electric fences can sometimes not work. Some raiders can find a way to get their stomachs full at our expense. Maybe land mines and machine gun nests is an option, but that might be a bit overboard.

 Fishing

  We’ve been having some nice bluegill meals lately. One fish related to the sunfish is the pumpkinseed. The few I’ve caught so far have been bigger than any bluegill, sunfish or red-ear.  They are really a beautiful fish and good eating, too!
The crappies and channel cats are now in deeper and cooler water. So far, I’ve been catching the ‘gills in the shallows.  Red worms do the trick.

Humor

  Lorna is threatening to throw me out of the house because of my obsession with acting like a news anchor. More on this after the break.  

Quote

   In order for a war to be just, three things are necessary. First: The authority of the sovereign. Secondly: A just cause. Thirdly: A rightful intention. - St. Thomas Aquinas

Rebuilding Together Will Host Hands-On Ramp Build for Volunteers

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   Rebuilding Together Henry County is calling on local residents to “roll up their sleeves and join a hands-on volunteer opportunity designed to educate and empower community members.

Rebuilding Together Henry County volunteers include, from left, Hal Clark, Jack Gowan and Steve Durian.  Contributed Photo

   The organization will host an Informational Ramp Build at 8 a.m. on Saturday, June 28, at the Rebuilding Together headquarters, 101 N. Church St., Atkinson.

   The instructional event is open to both new and returning volunteers interested in learning the fundamentals of building wheelchair-accessible ramps.

   Sarah Snyder, executive director of RTHC, said, “Whether you’re an experienced builder or someone simply looking to make a difference, no prior construction experience is required.”

   “This is a great way to get involved with our mission of making homes safer and more accessible for our elderly and disabled neighbors,” she added.  “We’ll provide everything you need, from training and materials to donuts and coffee!”

   Participants in the Hands-On Opportunity will:
  -Gain insight into how the ramp program works.
  -Learn hands-on building techniques from seasoned volunteers.
  -Assist in constructing part of a ramp on-site.
  -Connect with other community-minded individuals.

   Snyder said most tools and supplies will be provided, but those planning to attend are asked to bring handheld drills and impact drivers if they have them. 

   She said, “The event also is a valuable opportunity for volunteers to see the real-world impact of their contributions in building independence and accessibility for those in need.”

   For more information or to RSVP, volunteers are encouraged to email ssnyder@rebuildingtogether-hc.org or rthcpres@gmail.com.

   “Rebuilding Together Henry County has been a vital part of the community for over 30 years, improving hundreds of lives through critical home repairs and accessibility modifications.  The upcoming event on June 28 is just one more way the non-profit continues to build stronger, safer communities – one ramp at a time.”

Geneseo Historical Museum Featuring Military Exhibit - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current


The current exhibit at the Geneseo Historical Museum, “In Service and Sacrifice,” is a tribute to the men and women who have served in the armed forces - highlighting some personal stories behind the uniforms.

   The exhibit goes past the history of wars, and focuses on the different branches of military with some individual history. 

   The displays on both the first and second floors of the museum, at 205 South State St. in Geneseo, showcase military uniforms with explanations of what they represent.

   The photos included with this story are a sampling of the numerous displays at the museum, and information is included with each photo.  Note that the current museum exhibit includes more displays and information than the photos with this story.

   Melanie Rice, Museum Director/Curator, said “Every uniform tells a story, not just of the conflicts, but of courage, sacrifice and service!”

   Regular hours at the museum are from 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday and by appointment and by calling 309-944-3043.  In addition, the museum has added summer hours:   from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturdays, from June 21 through Saturday, Aug. 30.

PHOTOS WITH STORY

  -The late Bob DeBoever, who served in the United States Marines and did much to grow the Geneseo Aisle of Flags.

  -The Viet Nam Display – Vietnamese women’s dresses and a military dress uniform.

  -Melanie Rice, Museum Director/Curator is shown by the uniform worn by John Sparks who was a WW I Mechanic in Quentin Roosevelt’s 94th Aero Squadron.  Quentin Roosevelt was the son of President Roosevelt.

  -W.A.V.E.S. – During World War II, a branch of the Naval Reserve to enlist women, WAVES is an acronym for Women’ Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service.

  -Mothers of World War II – One of America’s most famous Patriotic mothers was Alleta May Abel Sullivan.  Her five sons were in the Navy, the Sullivan brothers, died when the ship, the USS Juneau was sunk off the Solomon Islands in 1942.  The Sullivan family was from Waterloo, Iowa

  -Second Floor Military Room – Numerous displays

Sugar Maple Ladies Golf League Hosting Event to Benefit Trinity Health Foundation

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   Members of the Sugar Maple Ladies Golf League are inviting area lady golfers to join them on Monday, July 14, at their “Swing ‘Fore’ the Cure.” event to benefit the Trinity Health Foundation.

   All area lady golfers are invited to a round of golf at the Sugar Maple Ladies Golf Club, 19283 East 1600th St., Geneseo.  The day includes golf, luncheon, prizes and raffle drawings.    Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. on July 14 with a 9 a.m. shot gun start.  There will be a salad luncheon, raffle and prizes after golf.

   Cost is $28 per person for green fees with cart in addition to a suggested donation of $25 to the Trinity Health Foundation ($25 checks should be made payable to the Trinity Health Foundation.)  Green fees are due on the day of the event, payable to Sugar Maple Golf Club. 

   Registration is due by Tuesday, July 1, by sending registration information to Lynda DeMoss, 920 Kadel Ct., Geneseo, IL 61254 or by calling 309-945-3897 or by email at ldemoss920@gmail.com

   In the event of a rainout, the luncheon and raffle drawings will be held as planned.

   The 2024 event raised a total of $2,400 for the Trinity Health Foundation.

   The upcoming 2025 event is being held in honor and in memory of two long-time members of the Sugar Maple Ladies Golf League, the late Sharon VanKerrebroeck and the late Judy Walters.

   The Route 6 Supper Club, located at Sugar Maple Golf Club, will be closed to the public for lunch on July 14 so the Ladies Golf League can use the facility for their luncheon.   

I’ve Got a Leak in My Sink! - By Dan Dauw

Youth Fishing Derby Results

  Here are the results of the June 7th “Geneseo Ikes “Youth Fishing Derby.”  There were 119 kids that were entered in the Saturday event.

Age Group 2-5: 1st Aliah Barker, 2nd Connor Flaherty, 3rd Sawyer Simpson, 4th Chloe Garrison, 5th Brautlee McKee, 6th Deklan Fleming.
Age Group 6-9: 1st Gracie Flaherty, 2nd Maddie Flaherty, 3rd Alexll Valencia, 4th Cohen Heller, 5th Beckham Arnold, 6th Micah Medina.
Age Group 10-12: 1st Kenzie Jenis, 2nd Bentley Blaser, 3rd Walter Newberg, 4th Noah Hutchinson, 5th Jordan Johnson, 6th Beckett Clendenin.
Age Group 13-16: 1st Faith Kuster, 2nd Carter Robb, 3rd Hannah Wildermuth, 4th Zachary Blank, 5th Maci Gorman, 6th Alex Henry.

Sorry if there are any mis-spelled names. Sometimes it’s hard to read the printing on the register slips. Sorry I did not get this information sooner, but I was on vacation. Thank you goes to all the kids, parents, and volunteers for providing a fun morning.  

 Cape Cod

   We returned from a nice week at Boston and Cape Cod.  We went with our daughter, DeeDee and son-in-law, Dave. That daughter of ours is something else. She had every detail planned out. We rented a van as Dave had to use an electric scooter and I had to use a walker. We used wheel chairs at both Midway and Logan airports. Midwest Airlines were very helpful for we handicap. I also like that passengers can sit where they want, no assigned seats.

  From the airport we drove two hours (DeeDee did all the driving) to Cape Cod. My mother and step-father lived on the ‘Cape for many years and we would visit them along with our kids. 
We stayed at the Best Western Motel at West Yarmouth.  We visited some neat museums and harbors.  One commercial fishing boat came in loaded with “skates.”  They are related to the shark and stingray, but have no poison barb. They’re considered good eating.
  One of the many highlights was whale watching which is always a must when visiting the ‘Cape. We took a sightseeing boat out of Barnstable.  
It takes over an hour to reach where the humpbacks were feeding. We saw 11 whales and some gray seals. To see these giant whales is just totaling amazing.  The seas were a little rough, with cold temps and rain, but all worth it, for sure! 
We visited some old-time friends, Louis and Louise Dmeo, while on the Cape. Some years ago they won the Connecticut Lottery (23 Mil).  They moved from a nice home to an amazing dwelling at 5.1 Mil. They are both in their low ‘90s, and while they have their ailments, they are both sharp of mind. It was lots of fun visiting with them, but as we waved good-by I felt sad knowing all of us probably we won’t see each other again.
  When in Boston on the last day we visited the USS Constitution and Museum. Of course, seafood is a must and we had to have lobster rolls.  There is more to tell, but you may be yawning by now. Suffice to say it was a great time and again, a big “Thank You” to our daughter who did an amazing job making all the reservations, driving and so on. 

How ‘Yer Garden Grows

  I hope your garden is doing well.  Our tomatoes, spinach, onions and beans are really looking great. The same holds true in our flower gardens. Mother Nature has, so far, given us some good moisture at the right times.  Let’s hope our area farmers benefit from the needed rains.

Maple City Band & Others

  Here are the remaining concerts. Great music and great food social!!!!

July 1: Maple City German Band
July 4th: Maple City Band
July 8: Miracle Bluegrass
July 15: Maple City Band
July 22: German Big Band
July 29: Big River Brass Band

 Humor

  Yesterday I called my landlord and I said to him, “I’ve got a leak in my sink!” He said, “Go ahead, I’m not judging!”

Local Girls Win Miss World Festival Queen Pageants and Still in Competition

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   Breckyn Granell, left front, daughter of Adam and Kristen Granell of Geneseo; Hensley Powell, daughter of James and Kara Powell, Kewanee; Marissa Nelson, back left, daughter of Brenda and Joel Nelson, Geneseo; and at back right, Mollie Parr, daughter of Tanahya Parr and Brett Parr, Geneseo, were crowned queens in the 2024 Miss World Festival held in Kewanee.

   Marissa Nelson will compete for Miss Illinois 2025; and Mollie Parr will compete for Miss Illinois Teen 2025, on June 28 in Marion, IL. 

   Their Little Sister Queens, Breckyn Granell and Hensley Powell, will be given crowns and will serve as Miss Illinois Jewels at the event.

   Jeanna Moore, of Kewanee, Executive Director for the Miss World Festival Queen Pageants, said, “Historically, the Miss America program only allowed prelim pageant winners to compete and over the years rules have changed.  They have allowed Festival Queens to attend and compete At Large.  The main focus for the Miss America Program is based on the young ladies CSI which stands for Community Service Initiative.  Marissa Nelson, who is competing in the Miss Illinois program, has chosen Serving Our Veterans as her CSI and Mollie Parr, who is competing for Miss Illinois Teen, chose Mentoring Our Youth as her CSI.”

   “The biggest accomplishments both young ladies have made has been stepping out of their comfort zones and into public speaking about something they are passionate about,” Moore added.

   The Miss World Festival Queen Pageants will celebrate the 37th year on Aug. 2 of this year and entries for the 2025 Miss World Festival Queen Pageant are being accepted.  More information is available from Moore at 309-540-8588; or Director Stephanie Smith at 309-883-9031; or Co-Director Kailey Senner on Facebook.  The Pageant Facebook page is Miss World Festival Queen Pageants.  Contributed Photo

 

Geneseo Historical Museum Hosting Walking Tours - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

  This summer the Geneseo Historical Museum is hosting “Stepping Through History “Legends and Landmarks,” Walking Tour.

Melanie Rice, Director/Curator of the Geneseo Historical Museum, holds a flyer announcing the walking tours the museum currently is hosting, Stepping Through History “Legends and Landmarks.”  Claudia Loucks Photo

   The tours offer a unique blend of storytelling, sightseeing, and local lore that brings Geneseo’s rich heritage to life.  Led by Steve Kastorff, people on the tour will visit iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and architectural marvels, each with a story to tell.

   The tours begin and end at 118 East 1st St., Geneseo, (Sweet Marie’s Ice Cream Shop) west alley bench, weather permitting.

   The tours are schedule for June 20 and 21; July 17, 18, and 19 and Aug. 14, 15 and 16.  For information on booking a tour, visit the museum website – geneseohistory.com or call the museum at 309-944-3043. 

   There is no charge for the tours, although free will donations are accepted for the Geneseo Historical Museum. 

 

Historical Perspective of Jazz to be Presented June 25 at Geneseo Library - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Those who like jazz and want to know about its history are encouraged to attend the program “Traditional Jazz:  A Historical Perspective of Jazz” to be presented at 2 p.m. on June 25 at the Geneseo Public Library.

   John Cooper, a jazz artist and composer, is the feature and his 45-minute presentation will include jazz music interspersed with a brief history of jazz techniques used by the various instruments.  Those who may not even like jazz, may enjoy the program.

   Cooper was a professor of music at Western Illinois University with a Master’s Degree in Music Composition from Bowling Green State University and a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Music Composition form New York University.

   He has performed as principal trumpet with the Marquette Symphony and has his own jazz quartet.  He also is a composer, releasing his first solo recording “Watching for Watchung Plaza,” which received critical acclaim from the Detroit Free Press.  He has dedicated much of his time and talents to the Western Illinois University Performing Arts Society by writing and composing shows for the Youth Performing Arts Series.

  His philosophy for playing trumpet is to develop an effortless approach, without tension to enable the student to make progress safely and quickly, Cooper said.

   The upcoming presentation will engage listeners through playing pieces common to the New Orleans era of jazz.  Cooper also will describe the role of each instrument in the ensemble, and a demonstration of the various techniques used by the different instruments played in jazz will be given.

   The audience is encouraged to ask questions of any of the musicians during the lecture portion of the performance.

   Jazz is best enjoyed in a live performance; and audiences commonly applaud soloists and clap rhythmic ally during performances.  In this way the audience “feels” the music. 

   The presentation at the Geneseo Library seeks to develop a connection with the audience members and help them understand the special nature of Jazz.  Traditional jazz is timeless, and its appeal can span generations.

   The program at the library is made possible through a grant from the Illinois Humanities Councill, a state agency.  Illinois Humanities is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the Illinois General Assembly, through the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency, as well as by contributions from individuals , foundations and corporations.

 

Zack Sullivan of the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce Graduates from Institute for Organization Management

Karyn MacRae
iom@uschamber.com

June 6, 2025 - WASHINGTON, D.C.— Institute for Organization Management, the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is pleased to announce that Zack Sullivan, IOM, Executive Director, of the Geneseo Chamber, has graduated from the program and has received the recognition of IOM. Awarded to all graduates of the Institute program, the IOM Graduate Recognition signifies the individual’s completion of 96 credit hours of course instruction in non-profit management.

In addition, participants can earn credit hours towards the Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) or Certified Association Executive (CAE), certifications. Nearly 1,000 individuals attend Institute annually.

“Institute graduates are recognized across the country as leaders in their industries and organizations,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, the U.S. Chamber’s vice president of Institute for Organization Management. “These individuals have the knowledge, skills, and dedication necessary to achieve professional and organizational success in the dynamic association and chamber industries.”

Since its commencement in 1921, the Institute program has been educating tens of thousands of association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members and become strong business advocates. Institute’s curriculum consists of four weeklong sessions at four different university locations throughout the country. Through a combination of required courses and electives in areas such as leadership, advocacy, marketing, finance, and membership, Institute participants are able to enhance their own organizational management skills and add new fuel to their organizations, making them run more efficiently and effectively.

Institute for Organization Management is the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. It is the premier nonprofit professional development program for association and chamber professionals, fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business organization representing companies of all sizes across every sector of the economy. Our members range from the small businesses and local chambers of commerce that line the Main Streets of America to leading industry associations and large corporations.

Market Outlook Seminar to feature Chip Nellinger, Blue Reef Agri-Marketing

Chip Nellinger, Blue Reef Agri-Marketing, will be the featured speaker on Tuesday, July 1 at 6:15 p.m. at Lavender Crest Winery, 5401 US Highway 6, Colona.  Dinner will be served followed by the local grain market update from Tom Parchert of River Valley Cooperative.  Reservations are required and must made by June 24 to guarantee your attendance. 

Chip Nellinger is the President and Risk Management Consultant of Blue Reef Agri-Marketing. He was raised on a grain and livestock farm in North Central Illinois, and graduated from Northern Illinois University with a B.S. in Economics. After graduation, he spent four years on the floor of the Chicago Board of Trade in International Commercial Grain Hedging. Chip has spent 28 years as a licensed commodity broker and 20 years as a licensed crop insurance agent. He is a commodity analyst on US Farm Report, Ag Day, RFD-TV, WILL and WNAX radio. Chip is a 19-year cancer survivor. He has three grown sons – Sam, Jake and Chase, and a granddaughter named Kodi.

Cost for the single session is $35.00 (if not pre-registered cost will be $40.00).  To make reservations, please call the Henry County Farm Bureau (309) 937-2411, Rock Island County Farm Bureau (309) 736-7432 or Mercer County Farm Bureau (309) 582-5116. 

The Market Outlook Seminar Series is sponsored by the Henry, Rock Island and Mercer County Farm Bureau Marketing Committees, in conjunction with: Gold Star FS, COUNTRY Financial, BankORION, COUNTRY Crop Insurance, Central Bank, Compeer Financial, Big River Resources, River Valley Cooperative, Wyffels Hybrids, Hertz Farm Management, Blackhawk Bank & Trust.

Results of Dean Olson Memorial Pedal Pull

Submitted By Diane Olson

Forty one 5- 10 year olds took part in the pedal pull at this year's Music Festival on Saturday afternoon.  The free event is sponsored by the Geneseo FFA in memory of Dean Olson who started the event and organized it for many years.  Trophies are donated by Steve Clementz, and Vern Mariman volunteers his retired auction truck and serves as announcer.  Pictures below feature the winners of each division.  FFA Members and the Music Festival Queen and court cheered on the participants and passed out trophies.  A good time was had by all.

Five and Six Year Old Results: 3rd place Kashen Rahmus, First place Cody Edlefson and 2nd place Beaux Puls

Resluts of Seven and Eight Year Olds:   2nd place Adalynn Rahmus, First Place Judd Steele, and third place Camille Wildermuth

Resulta of the Nine and Ten year olds: Second place Breckyn Granell, First Place Wyatt Edlefson, Third Place Akif Onder 

 

Music Festival Queen Pageant 2025 and More

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Any one of the 15 young ladies in the Geneseo Music Festival Queen Pageant could have been crowned 2025 Music Festival Queen at ceremonies held Friday in Geneseo City Park, but guidelines are in place to select the queen and four runners-up. Isabella Curcuru, daughter of Jillian and Marc Curcuru, was crowned queen. Members of the court are from left, Sophia Clifton, second runner-up, daughter of Sonya and Tim Clifton; Caroline Girten, first runner-up, daughter of Tricia and Bill Girten; the queen; Ava DeWolfe, third runner-up, daughter of Tara and Ben DeWolfe; and Jaidah Cribbs, fourth runner-up, daughter of Brittany Jones. The pageant is sponsored by the Geneseo Rotary Club and the queen receives $500 scholarship money. Each runner-up also receives scholarship money from the Rotary Club. Contestants not in the court are each given a $25 gift certificate from Geneseo Rotary. Photo by Claudia Loucks

Eden Ebert was, center, was crowned Princess of the Little Miss Princess Pageant held prior to the Queen Pageant Friday in Geneseo City Park. Members of the Little Miss court are, from left, Adi Smith, third runner-up; Irie Boone, first runner-up; the princess; Shae Robertson, the 2024 Little Miss Music Festival Princess; Tille Moore, 2025 second runner-up; and Winter Farber, fourth runner-up. Photo by Claudia Loucks

Madeline Possin, left, committee member of the queen pageant committee, and the 2024 Music Festival Queen Addison Dykstra at the 2025 pageant in City Park. Photo by Claudia Loucks

Mariah Hutchinson, left, and Ashley Moore, emcees at the Music Festival Queen Pageant, visit with Addison Dykstra, 2024 Music Festival Queen. Photo by Claudia Loucks

A group of Geneseo High School vocalists provided musical entertainment at the intermission of the Queen Pageant. They are Carter Eastburn, Perry Farley, Jonathan Freadhoff, Cody Hensley, Tyler Holtzen, Landry Possin, Cy Sammons, Paxton Sherbeyn and Ethan Sundeen. Pam Edwards was their accompanist and she also provides the background music at the pageant. Photo by Claudia Loucks

Aaron Betcher, left, and Kruiz Ludwig, at right, 2025 GHS graduates, were escorts for the 2025 Queen Pageant. They are photographed with pageant judges Sue Brunsma, Elizabeth Schulte and Lisa Henderson. Photo by Claudia Loucks

Catherine Rothschild and granddaughter Tille Moore just prior to the Music Festival Queen Pageant in City Park. Tille was chosen second runner-up in the Little Miss Princess Pageant, also held Friday in City Park. Photo by Claudia Loucks

Jean Pritchard, center, a member of the Queen Contest Committee and a Rotary Club member, helps two of the queen candidates just before they line up for the start of the pageant. They are Madelyn Mooney, left; and Isabella Curcuru, at right. Photo by Claudia Loucks

Applications Being Accepted for Geneseo Woman’s Club Scholarship in Honor of the Late Patti McNaught

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   The Geneseo Woman’s Club is offering a scholarship in honor of the late Patti McNaught, who was a 50-year member of the Woman’s Club before her death in 2022.

   Applications are being accepted for the $500 scholarship to be used to help pay for college expenses.  Applicants will need to provide proof that they are a graduate of Geneseo High School, currently enrolled in a college or university where their major is music education, and that they have completed at least two years.   The scholarship will be awarded directly to the recipient in the form of a check from the Geneseo Woman’s Club.  Application deadline is July 1 and those students who qualify may apply through this link: 

https://forms.gle/Bk4dWtHcvpvDdcqQ7

   The late Patti McNaught was involved with music in Geneseo from 1969 until her death in 2022.  She taught elementary music at Millikin Elementary School, accompanied the junior high and middle school choirs, taught piano lessons for more than 40 years, and accompanied many students for solo and ensemble contests.