110 Stories - By Elizabeth Hulsbrink

Docudrama by Sarah Tuft
Performed by members of the Geneseo community
By Elizabeth Hulsbrink

Tuesday, September 11, 2001 is a day carved into our memory. Not sketched. Brutally carved. And anyone over the age of about 10 on that day could tell you exactly where they were, what they were doing, and how the world changed when the news of the attacks hit the public.  

Fast-forward to Sunday, September 14, 2025, twenty-four years later, to a local production honoring the victims and giving homage for the survivors.

From the first crash at the Twin Towers to the final goodbye at Ground Zero, 110 Stories, written by Sarah Tuft, offers a raw and moving portrayal of 9/11—told not through news footage or political speeches, but through the real voices of those who lived it. This docudrama, built from actual interviews, weaves together first-person accounts that bring the unimaginable into deeply personal focus.

The cast of characters isn’t made up of officials or celebrities, but of everyday people whose stories are often overlooked: a mother, a photojournalist, an ironworker, a chiropractor, a dog handler, and a homeless man who became an unlikely hero. Each one brought something unique and deeply human to the stage.

One particular character who stood out to me most was the father whose son, of Pakistani descent, was missing. His quiet desperation and restrained emotion were deeply moving. He didn’t need to raise his voice—every word reflected the heavy weight of uncertainty and fear. His story stayed with me, a reminder of the personal pain and quiet strength carried by so many, including families who also faced the burden of cultural bias in the aftermath. 

Another story that resonated with me personally was the mother who couldn’t find her child. Her panic was palpable, and as a parent, I felt her fear deep in my chest. The rawness of her desperation—searching, hoping, not knowing—was heartbreaking. Her story captured the chaos of that day through a deeply personal lens that stayed with me long after the scene ended.

The ironworker’s account particularly stood out to me. It reminded me of the stories my husband often brings home from his own work—tales of courage, hard labor, some laughter (like finding a 40-year-old beer can in a steel beam!) and resilience in difficult conditions. Hearing the ironworker’s experience gave me a new appreciation for the everyday bravery of those who faced unimaginable danger that day.

The dog handler’s story touched me deeply, bringing tears to my eyes as I listened to the incredible tenacity and seemingly impossible endurance of the dog. Through the handler’s words, I could feel the bond between them—the unwavering loyalty and courage that carried them both through unimaginable challenges. It was a powerful reminder of the silent heroes in that tragedy, whose strength and determination often went unnoticed but made a profound difference.

What struck me most was how the play didn’t shy away from the chaos and confusion of that day—many accounts were unfiltered, panicked, even darkly humorous in moments. That balance of emotional weight and raw honesty made it all feel incredibly real.

Each actor spoke from different areas of the stage, creating a tennis-match viewing experience that initially left me feeling annoyed and frustrated—until I realized it was intentional. Kudos to director Jackie Patterson of Geneseo for her creative vision in staging the actors across different areas of the stage, because what first felt disorienting soon revealed itself to be an intentional, powerful choice—mirroring the confusion and chaos of that day. It was a bold move that deepened the emotional impact and pulled me further into the experience.

Perhaps the most powerful aspect of 110 Stories is its refusal to lean into politics. Instead, it honors the human experience—highlighting the compassion, fear, courage, and resilience that united New Yorkers in the face of unthinkable tragedy.

When the program ended, I felt a quiet reserve settle over me—as if speaking aloud would somehow disturb the weight of what we had just witnessed. It felt appropriate to leave in silence, out of respect for the real people whose stories had been shared. That silence became a final act of reverence for the survivors and the lost alike.

In the end, 110 Stories doesn’t just memorialize a tragic day—it breathes life into it, reminding us not just of what was lost, but of the strength that rose from the ashes

Chairman of Harold Neumann Project Flies in Mr. Mulligan

  Paula Neumann Chapa is chairman of the Harold Neumann Project, which showcases the accomplishments of Harold Neumann’s flying career.  Harold Neumann grew up in Geneseo.

   Chapa was invited recently to fly in Mr. Mulligan in Clear Lake, Iowa, and shared this information with me:  “Doug Rozendaal is the proprietor and it was something for me to be able to do with the history of Harold Neumann and this plane.”

   Information received previously from Paula Neumann Chapa, states, “During Harold Neumann’s flying career of 70 years, he accomplished much more than that farm boy from Geneseo, ever imagined he could.  In 1935, Harold Neumann won the Greve Trophy, the Thompson Trophy (With Mr. Mulligan in 1935) along with the award of America’s #1 Pilot by the National Aeronautical Association.  He is acknowledged in the Smithsonian; he was a barnstormer, skywriter, and a Captain for TWA for 30 years.  From Jenny’s to Jets, this man was not just a pilot, he was a genius.” 

PAULA NEUMAN CHAPA’S STORY OF FLIGHT IN MR. MULLIGAN

HOWARD DGA-6

“MR. MULLIGAN” 

Harold Neumann and Benny Howard in Mr. Mulligan 1935

   “As we taxi down the runway, I am feeling a great deal of wonder as I am not sure if I am going to be able to enjoy the flight or sit with my eyes closed the whole time. Dramamine -check, something to throw up in – check, reminding myself to breath…. Before I knew it, the wheels had left the runway, and we were flying! What a rush! A smooth as silk climb into the sky. My first ever flight in a non-commercial plane, let alone a racer.

   Doug Rozendaal, proprietor of Mr. Mulligan, Clear Lake, Iowa, gave me the Harold Neumann flight as if I were actually in the Thompson Race myself - 235 miles an hour and turning the plane as if actually rounding the pylon. How they flew so close together, racing in and out of each other is beyond me.

   These are large planes maneuvering around a tower, not knowing where the other planes were in the race. It takes a person with focus and patients to be able to do that feat, and Harold obviously was that sort of pilot. As Jimmy Doolittle once said, “I was successful with racing only because I was good at focusing on one thing. I could focus on the race and only the race.”

Paula Neumann Chapa looking out the same window of Mr. Mulligan on her recent flight.

   Being able to look out of Mr. Mulligan and see as far as the eye can see, was like nothing I had experienced before. Fields, lakes, water ways and cities. Another rush I was not expecting. I am reminded of Harold’s first flight in his Jenny. How he felt seeing things from above for the first time. No wonder pilots are drawn to the sky. It is wonderful! Calming and exciting at the same time. Just to fly along without a care in the world. My kind of medicine.

   As we flew, I was also reminded about stories in Harold’s 1939 book about fixing the planes midflight. If something was not right, especially if flying Mike or Ike, Harold would work on the plane…. DID I MENTION WHILE FLYING! It amazes me that someone can think that fast. Multitasking to say the least!

We came around to land and just as smoothly as we took off from the runway, we landed. The kind of smoothness only men like Doug and Harold could provide. I was glad to be on the ground and yet, I was disappointed that what I had been excited for was over.  Just another reason to come back and do it again, Doug said.  And you can bet I will if the opportunity is there.

   It was the night of Doug & Kim’s 3rd Thursday fly in. I was able to meet some wonderful people that just like to fly together and talk with other pilots about planes. The potluck was great as were the people. I brought the Greve and Thompson Trophies from the Geneseo Historical Museum as well as some pictures and old newspaper clippings to share. That was a hit, and it was fun to answer questions about some of the aviation pioneers that I have uncovered through years of looking through Harold’s clippings and notes.

   As they pulled Doug & Kim’s additional planes back into the hangar, I was reminded about the comradery of these aviators that have become friends through the years. I was reminded of stories Harold told of how often a problem would occur and how they all worked together for a solution. The wonderful stories and laughter that occurred as we ate together was something that I will look forward to experiencing more of in the future.

   I may not be a pilot, but I still feel like a big part of this thing called aviation. It has certainly touched my soul as I can only imagine it did Harold’s.” 

Paula Neumann Chapa, Chair, Harold Neumann Project (My Grandfather and Harold were first cousins.) geneseoaviationpioneer.com – webpage

haroldneumannrace – facebook

geneseoaviationpioneer@gmail.com - email

 

 

Geneseo Chamber of Commerce Announces 2025 State Street Market

Zack Sullivan, Executive Director
Geneseo Chamber of Commerce

State Street Market Geneseo, a beloved Midwest autumn tradition, returns to the beautiful State Street in Downtown Geneseo, Illinois, for one day only! Celebrating ten years in 2025, State Street Market been your destination for amazing style, unbeatable savings, and guaranteed smiles!

Don't miss out on the FREE open-air market happening Saturday, October 4th, 2025, from 10 am to 4 pm. Discover a fantastic selection of curated handmade and vintage vendors, enjoy live music, snap some fun photos, savor delicious food, and explore the wonderful shops and restaurants that Geneseo has to offer.

A curated list of over 60 vendors and mobile boutiques will be set up along historic State Street in Downtown Geneseo from 10am-4pm. Shop vintage, handmade, and handpicked goods from all over the Midwest region.

Make a day of it! Enjoy excellent shopping and dining city-wide all day long. This year you can expect to see many of past market vendors returning alongside some new names setting up for their very first market. This is a great day to make Geneseo, Illinois a shopping and dining destination. Geneseo is conveniently located in the heart of the Midwest on Interstate 80 at Exit 19 in Illinois, and is easily accessible by Interstate 80; Interstate 280; and Interstate 74.

Live music and Fun! Right at the center of State Street Market you will find LIVE MUSIC happening the entire market time. Paxton Sherbeyn will perform at State Street Market from 10am-1pm, Bugz Benson will play at the Food Court from 11am-2pm, and Chloe Mae will take the hayrack stage from 1pm-4pm. Food trucks will be setup for market guests and picnic tables and blankets will be spread out for a safe and fun outdoor dining experience. Geneseo’s brick and mortar stores and restaurants will also be open and ready for all of your local shopping and dining needs.

For more information about the 2025 event, follow State Street Market Geneseo on Facebook and Instagram: @statestreetmarketgeneseo #statestreetmarketgeneseo

Questions? For more information, call the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce at 309-944-2686 or via email at geneseo@geneseo.org.

Klavine Motor Co. (Museum) to Mark 100th Anniversary at Geneseo Location - By Claudia Loucks

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Dan Klavine in his shop. Photo by Claudia Loucks

Klavine Motor Co. has been in the family for 107 years, and on Oct. 1 will mark a milestone of being located in the same place for the last 100 years.

   Dan Klavine, the third generation Klavine who now owns and operates the business said no special celebration is planned. 

   The company remains in its original location, at 119 South Center St.  where it moved in 1925, although it has grown from its location at the back of the building to now occupying the front as well.   Dan Klavine estimates “seven rooms,” on the first and second floors, not counting the basement and attic.

Dan Klavine holds an antique wrench which is one of the many antique tools at Klavine Motor Co.  The large clock on the wall is from the former Northside Elementary School building on Russell Ave., in Geneseo.  Photo by Claudia Loucks

 

   The business is so much more than a “Motor Co., showcasing countless cases of memorabilia, old tools, motors, engines, and “everything in-between,” Klavine said.  

   Dan has been involved in the family business since childhood, although the official year of him starting work is 1977.  He recalls being at the shop when he was in grade school, and he also was involved in the family business when he was a “coop” student at J.D. Darnall High School (now Geneseo High “School.”)  

  He shared a memory of he and his dad, Roy “Joe” Klavine building a go-kart together.

Dan Klavine, owner and operator of Klavine Motor Co. in Geneseo, is photographed in front of the building at 119 South Center St.  Photo by Claudia Loucks

   Both Dan’s grandfather, Joe A., and his dad, Roy Joe, have passed away, his grandfather died in 1981, and his dad in 2019, and he isn’t sure what will happen to the business when he decides to retire.

   “My son, Brandon, is not interested in working in the business,” he said.

   Klavine Motor Co. was the first such in Henry County to offer refrigeration and repair service and the second to fix car air conditioners in Geneseo.

   Joe A. Klavine, who was born in 1899 and grew up on a farm in Edford Twp., was the founder of the business in 1918. 

   After tiring of farming, he went to work for the railroad and later became interested in car repair, opening his own shop in 1918 in Osco, near the family farm.

   It was one of his customers who encouraged him to open a shop in Geneseo, which he did in 1925 in the location where it remains today.

   At one time the building was a buggy factory and some of the bows and seats remain there, although now the upstairs is used primarily to store old parts and some family antiques, “and junk,” Dan added. 

Klavine is standing by the antique horse-driven road cart housed at the shop.  Photo by Claudia Loucks

  In the front of the shop are numerous glass cases, filled with memorabilia, ranging from toy tractors, to items from Geneseo stores and yet another case holds memorabilia from the Klavine business.  On a wall in the building at the front hangs a pendulum clock which at one time was located in the original Northside School building.

   During World War II, Klavine Motor Co. serviced an area that reached from the Quad cities to New Boston, Knoxville, Princeton, Rockford and Clinton, Iowa.  The company covered commercial refrigeration repair throughout northwest Illinois.

   “Most of my customers now bring their work to the shop,” Dan said.

   Klavine Motor Co. sells welding supplies which Dan said keeps the farmers visiting the shop, and they also recharge paint ball guns.

   When asked how much longer he plans to operate the business, Dan answered, “Until I know it’s time to leave.”

 

Whitewalls - By Dan Dauw

By Dan Dauw
Geneseo Current

When I wasn’t old

  1) Remember when soft drinks were called “soda pop?”
  2) What happened to “Royal Crown,” “Cream Soda” and “Squirt?”
  3) Trash cans were metal and no wheels.
  4)  Houses were built with a single garage and no garage door opener?
  5)  I-80’s speed limit was 65.
  6)  Police carried revolvers, not semi-automatics.
  7)  The Royal American Show came to Davenport every year via train.
  8)  Every kid wanted a Lionel or American Flyer RR train.
  9)  Records were 45, 33 1/3, and 78.
  10) T-shirts were plain white, no logos, statements or political words.
11) Most Christians went to church on Sundays.
12)  Whitewalls were on most car tires. 

No Degree

  The recent assignation of Charlie Kirk had some news reporters mentioning he had no college degree. And the point is? Seems to me the young fella accomplished quite a bit without a college degree. Sadly, his time on Earth was cut short by a devil.  

Khadga

  There was an interesting article in the Iowa Farmer Today publication on a family business called “Heritage Bison Ranches.” 
They have herds based in northwest Iowa and near Sisseton, SD.  The bison are 100% free of antibiotics and growth hormones. The bison roam on prairie grasslands and are also fed corn. The closest place to purchase bison meat is CSI Manufacturing, Cambridge, IL.  It is excellent, lean meat. However, it is more expensive than beef.

The Role Ag plays on the Road

  Last week I wrote about the need to drive carefully on the roadways especially during harvest time. From gravel roads to highways, our highway systems play an important role for agriculture. 
Besides, roads and bridges, railroads and waterways help support agriculture. Again, drive carefully when farm machinery meets the road.  

‘Da Bears

   After watching the Bears vs. the Lions game, I do believe it is going to be a l-o-n-g season. Grant you, Detroit is a good football team, but a 31 point lost difference was hard to swallow. The Cowboys come to Soldier Field next Sunday, Sept 21. “Yipee, Coyote!”  

Fishing Report

   I’ve gone fishing twice lately, but not with much luck.  There are anglers I’ve talked with that are doing good, especially channel cats.
Another fella was telling me he caught a muskie and some smallmouth bass in the Green River. The “smallies” like that shallow river and the fish adjust to it.
For me, I’m going to wait for cooler temps and maybe a slight breeze would be nice, too! 

 Humor

  What did the pickle with a big ego say? Ans: “I’m kind of a big dill.”
If money doesn’t grow on trees, then why do banks have branches?
I opened-up a new restaurant called, Peace and Quiet. Kids meals start at $150.00. 

Quote

  “All persons by nature desire to know.” - Aristotle

Grace Church Congregation Has Mission Outreach at Church

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

  It isn’t often that an entire church congregation can participate in a mission “trip,” but that is exactly what happened on Sunday at Grace United Methodist Church in Geneseo. 

   Karen Doy, chairman of the Mission Committee at Grace Church, and her team organized several tables of school supplies to be sent to Midwest Mission.  

   Sunday, Sept. 14, was designated as Mission Sunday at the church when Doy explained, “We decided to bring the mission field to our church.”

   At the close of the church service, the congregation was invited to take part in the project and directions were provided for building the student school supply kits.  The group made it a fun time by forming an assembly line in filling the kits.  

   “All of the necessary supplies were provided, having been donated by church members or purchased by the Mission Committee,” Doy said.  “We thought if most people built one kit before leaving church, we would have 100 kits built in no time. We made it a fun time by providing donuts to those who participated.”

   Each kit includes three one-subject spiral notebooks, one 12-inch ruler, six unsharpened

pencils, one two-inch pencil eraser, one box of 12 colored pencils, one box of 24 crayons,

and one pair of scissors.

   The supplies are contained in individual handmade one-handled bags, made by 100-year-old Grace Church member Norma Lodge and several other church members. The pattern for the bags was supplied by Midwest Mission.

   The completed kits will be delivered to the Midwest Mission in Pawnee, IL.

   It is never certain where the student supply kits are sent, Doy said and added, “The student kits may end up in Ohio, Texas, Haiti, Ukraine, or somewhere else in the world where there is a need.  Last year we think some of them made their way to Honduras.”  

 

Find Out Why Women Wear Hats at Sept. 19 Library Program

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

  For centuries women have adorned their heads and framed their faces with hats and head coverings.  What was the reason?

   That question will be answered at 2 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 19, at the Geneseo Public Library when Elizabeth Carlson, known as “Ellie,” will present a program on hats through the years.

   Carlson is a historian and performer who gives lectures, workshops, and programs to groups on various topics including “Women’s Underwear (The Rise and Fall of it),” what it was like to be a schoolteacher during Laura Ingalls Wilder’s time, what it was like to be at Woodstock, and Women’s Suffrage.

   She began taking children’s theater classes at the age of 11 and continued to work in theater through high school and college.  She has performed or served in various capacities at Drury Lane, Chicago Opera Theater, Candlelight dinner Playhouse and Second City Children’s Theater.  Combining theater and history in graduate school led Carlson to museum work.

   She previously has presented several programs at the Geneseo Library and information received states that she “is a crowd pleaser…Her programs can be somewhat whimsical, especially those calling for first-0person interpretation, like the program she calls ‘Regretting Mr. Wright,’ about the married woman who fell in love with Frank Lloyd Wright.  Another of her characters travels to her presentation in a time machine.”

   The information from the library includes, “Anyone who owns a hat from long ago is asked to dust it off wear it!  Then be prepared to share the story behind it.  Ellie encourages audience participation.”

   On a special note, at the conclusion of the program on Sept. 19, Carlson will be serving decorated sugar cookies that look like little hats.

 

Kaleidoscope Caravan to be at Geneseo Library Sept. 20

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   Tom Chouteau and his Kaleidoscope Caravan will be at the Geneseo Public Library from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20.  The Kaleidoscope on wheels will be parked outside of the library and visitors are encouraged to stop by and experience a mirrored, kaleidoscope environment inside the colorful school bus.

    “My mission is to place kaleidoscopes and mirrored environments out in front of the public eye in the best way possible so that those who view them may have their lives enhanced and refreshed,” Chouteau said.

   Chouteau is a native of Davenport, Iowa, and has been creating kaleidoscopes for 30 years.  He has received numerous awards and has led dozens of workshops on the subject of kaleidoscope creation.

   Information from the Geneseo Library states, “People of all ages have been taught by Tom how kaleidoscopes are put together, what makes them work, and the many varieties of mirror tunnels and images that can be created.  Tom has taught after-school classes in the Iowa Quad Cities, has demonstrated at local organizations and clubs, and directed senior citizens and teen classes at area libraries.

   He purchased the bus, now the Kaleidoscope Caravan, from Midcoast Fine Arts in 2025 for $1. The 1985 Chery Thomas School Bus was converted by Midwest Fine Arts to be a First Fine Art experience for third graders of the Quad City Metro Area.  It was named “The Art-O-Mobile.”

   The agreement we made when I purchased it, was that I would use it for educational purposes,” Chouteau said.  “I worked on the Caravan in a sporadic way.  One year, I’d work on the brakes, the next year, installing mirrors, and, maybe the next, painting the exterior.  My whole challenge was to be able to take it to schools, campgrounds, fairs, and parties.  But now I’m starting to feel that, maybe, I should have it say in one place most of the time.  Have people come to visit, at least, until I’m able to really get the get-up very sound…kind of like the Wizard of Oz!”

    Information from the library also stated that the Kaleidoscope Caravan is for both adults and children.  Oftentimes, the adults must be coaxed to leave!  The interior is lit up with florescent black lights and painted details that kind of place you into an unfamiliar world.  Sort of like Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland!”

   One of Chouteau’s creations, the Blue Note, is a large kaleidoscope located inside the Geneseo Public Library.  It has a secure stepladder for children to use to look through it. 

ADDED INFORMATION ABOUT KALEIDOSCOPES:

   A kaleidoscope is an optical instrument with two or more reflecting surfaces (or mirrors) tilted to each other at an angle, so that one or more (parts of) objects on one end of these mirrors are shown as a symmetrical pattern when viewed from the other end, due to repeated reflection.  These reflectors are usually enclosed in a tube, often containing on one end a cell with loose, colored pieces of glass or other transparent (and/or) opaque) materials to be reflected into the viewed pattern.  Rotation of the cell causes motion of the materials, resulting in an ever-changing view being presented.

   The kaleidoscope was invented by a Scottish scientist named Sir David Brewster.  In 1815, he was doing experiments with light and discovered how mirrors could create these repeating patterns.  Two years later, in 1817, he officially got a patent for his invention.

   Brewster’s first design was a simple tube.  It had pairs of mirrors at one end and clear disks at the other.  In between these, he placed small beads.  These beads were what created the colorful, shifting images.

   Brewster chose a skilled lens maker to be the only person to produce his new invention.  The kaleidoscope became a huge hit!  In just three months, over 200,000 kaleidoscopes were sold in London and Paris.  People loved them so much that Carpenter couldn’t make them fast enough.

   On May 17, 1818, Brewster allowed manufacturers to start making kaleidoscopes too, so more people could enjoy them.  Even though it was first meant to be a scientific tool, the kaleidoscope quickly became a popular toy.  Brewster had hoped to make a lot of money from his invention, but a small mistake in his patent application meant that others could easily copy his design without paying him.

Lil Leaf Cheerleaders Perform at GHS Football Game

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Geneseo High School varsity cheerleaders led the “Lil” cheerleaders through their performance at the Sept. 12 football game held at Bob Reade Football Field at GHS.  Photos by Claudia Loucks

   Blake Fritz, left; Grechyn Hintgen and Jensen Fritz were among the nearly 90 “Lil” cheerleaders, in kindergarten through fifth grade, who entertained football fans with the chants they learned at a recent Lil Leaf Cheer Clinic.   Their performance was held Friday night in conjunction with the Green Machine’s football game against Rock Island, when Geneseo dominated the night with both freshman and varsity wins. 

 

Women’s Health Series Luncheons Begin Sept. 25

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

   Knowledge can lead to many benefits, according to members of the Community Benefits Committee at Hammond-Henry Hospital in Geneseo.

   Jan Sellman, left, and Linda Storm, representing the Women’s Health Committee at Hammond-Henry Hospital, invite area residents to the Thursday, Sept. 25, program of the Women’s Health Series, sponsored by Hammond-Henry Foundation Community Benefits Committee.  The program, “Pre-Diabetes,” will be presented by Chad Martens, MD, of Hammond-Henry Hospital Geneseo Medical Group in the Geneseo Community Center, Activity Rom.    Photo by Claudia Loucks

    The Women’s Health Series is sponsored by the committee which is an extension of the Hammond-Henry Hospital Foundation.  Jan Sellman and Linda Storm serve as co-chairpersons of the committee.

   The 2025-2026 program series begins its season on Thursday, Sept. 25, with a program, “Pre-Diabetes,” to be presented by Chad Martens, MD, of Hammond-Henry Hospital Geneseo Medical Group. 

   The monthly health series luncheon meetings are from 12 to 1 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of each month, from September through May, with the exception of December, at the Geneseo Community Center Activity Room, 541 East North St., Geneseo.  Cost is $12 per person, payable at the meeting.

   Reservations are due by Thursday, Sept. 18, and may be made by calling the Hospital Foundation office, 309-944-9112, or by email at hhhfound@hammondhenry.com.  As a caterer is being used, walk-ins are not guaranteed a meal and reservations are required to secure a meal.  Guests are welcome to arrive at the luncheon events any time after 11:15 a.m.

   The series of programs began in 2003 in an effort to help educate the community, according to Katie Orwig, Hammond-Henry Hospital Foundation manager.  Program topics are selected by members of the Community Benefits Committee. 

   “At that time, the sessions were for both men and women, and men are still welcome, but it seems that we focus more on women’s topics because they are the primary caretakers of the family,” she said.

   The women’s sessions led to establishing a men’s health series in 2013 where health topics for men are presented four times each year at 7 a.m. in the hospital conference room.

   In addition to the programs being educational, Orwig said they are also a social time.  “Beyond what they learn, they also view the time as a social outing and look forward to visiting with other people who attend,” she said.

   “The programs are a means for us to let people know about services offered at Hammond-Henry,” Orwig said.  “I have often heard remarks such as, ‘I had no idea that was offered at the hospital.’…I also think the people who attend the programs are in a more comfortable setting to ask questions of the presenters.”

   “It is a fun way to learn,” she added.

   Orwig said feedback is gathered at the programs, asking those in attendance to submit ideas.  These ideas are reviewed by the committee and a list of topics is chosen for the upcoming year…”We have never run out of topics,” she said.

   The 2025-2026 programs:

  -Sept. 25 – Pre-Diabetes.
  -Oct 23 – Swallowing/Speech Therapy.
  -Nov 19– (THIRD WEDNESDAY) – Chiropractic Care/Dry Needling.
  -Dec – No Program
  -Jan 22, 2026 – Balance and Vertigo.
  -Feb 26 – Incontinence.
  -March 26 – Bemer.
  -Apr 23 – Orthopedic Surgeon.
  -May 28 – Infusion.

The Little Black Dress Program Sept. 17 at Geneseo Library

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

  It’s versatile, dependable and affordable – that Little Black Dress, but how did it become such a fashion staple?

  The answer to that question and more will be included in a program, presented by Leslie Goddard, at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 17, at the Geneseo Library.  

  Guests will learn how Chanel helped dissociate the color black from mourning, how Audrey Hepburn helped establish the dress as a woman’s staple, and how it was reinvented by everyone from Betty Boop to Prada.

   Goddard holds a PhD. From Northwestern University and Master’s Degrees in museum studies and theater.  In this area, she is not known for her education, but for her portrayal of many historical figures such as Jackie Kennedy, Lilly Pulitzer, and Lady Bird Johnson. 

   Goddard is a lifelong resident of the Chicago area and   has written three books on Chicago history.  She has been lecturing and performing on topics in history for more than 20 years, and her programs have been seen by audiences in a dozen states.

 

Next Step Vending Business in Geneseo

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Jen and Kris Keegan are owners and operators of Next Step Vending.  There is no store front for their business, but they are located off Chicago St. in Geneseo, with business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday Through Friday.   For more information, call the business at 309-945-7472.  Contributed Photo

Jen and Kris Keegan looked to the future when they opened Next Step Vending in Geneseo.

   The couple was looking ahead for their next step in life after retirement and that is how they chose their business name, Next Step.

   Next Step Vending is a business that specializes in Vending Machines, coffee stations, and open markets.  The Keegan couple bought into the Naturals 2 Go franchise utilizing a lot of their machines, and Kris Keegan added, “But we have access to all makes and models to fit anyone’s needs.”

   Owner Kris Keegan said, “Our machines are set up to the client’s needs and wants.  Our base machine is refrigerated and can carry up to 60 different products.  We can offer chips, candies, cold foods such as wedge-style sandwiches, and even sodas out of the same machine.”

   He added, “We are not tied to any specific brand of drink, we can offer any brand.  If they need peanut free, sugar free, or healthy options, we are able to fulfill their needs.”

   When asked why he started the business, Kris Keegan replied, “I was intrigued by the idea and looked to lower the life stress and escape the 9-5.”

   He hired a broker to locate small business ideas as he had been searching for passive incomes…”When this one came across my desk, it just seemed to fit,” he said.

   After initiating the business in August of last year, Kris and Jen Keegan went to Savannah, GA, for training in September, 2024, and Keegan added, “with the first machine hitting the ground just before the end of 2024.  We are adding machines to our fleet every month.”

   When asked, “What was the biggest hurdle you had to overcome,” he answered, “As much as I like learning new things, learning a new industry was a little bit of a challenge.  But the one biggest hurdle was landing the supplier contacts to bring my products into the mainstream.  We have access to hundreds of different products and currently carry over 200 products in stock.”

   Next Step Vending is the Keegan’s second business.  In early 2024, they purchased an apartment building in Geneseo, “Next Step Rental Properties LLC.”

 

Native American Culture Program Sept. 12 at Geneseo Library

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current


  Native American Indian Rudy Vallejo will share his Native American culture through song and dance at 2 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 12, at the Geneseo Public Library.  Weather permitting, Vallejo will put his tent up outside the library.

   Vallejo did not grow up with the Kickapoo tribe, but often visited his family there.  When he was nine years old, his grandfather gave him the Indian name, “Shoip-she-0wah-no,” which means “Vision of a Lion.”  The name is of Potawatomi origin, as is his tribe.  Kickapoo means “he who moves about.  Potawatomi means “people of the fire.”

   There are two other Kickapoo tribes in the U.S., the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas and the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma.  There also are Kickapoo in Mexico, where Vallejo’s father was from.  His mother’s family was of the Prairie Band of Potawatomi Nation from Kansas.

   Vallejo’s maternal grandmother and grandfather (of Kickapoo descent) were sent to boarding schools designed to “take the Indian out of the Indian” and given the western names of “Susie and Frank.”  Vallejo acknowledges the severe struggles encountered by Native children who were forced to abandon their culture and language and he thinks it’s important to “overcome those times and keep going.”

  Information from the Geneseo Library included: “Sharing native culture and history during events such as the one at the Geneseo Library allows Native Americans opportunities to do that.”

   Vallejo has been teaching the Eagle Dance to young and old for years in order to preserve and promote Native culture and history.  He treasures the memories of his grandmother…” My grandmother inspired me to follow in her footsteps and carry on the tradition of dancing, and we need to teach our young people these values and traditions before we pass away and they are lost forever.”

   The Eagle Dance is an honor dance traditionally performed in honor of the elders of the tribe.  Vallejo explained that real feathers are used in the dance, but are received from the National Eagle Repository in Colorado.  Because it is illegal to pick up Eagle feathers from the ground, native Americans can apply for them through the repository.

   “There are 12 feathers on an eagle’s tail,” Vallejo explained.  “The two middle feathers are the straightest. They are called the chief feathers.  The two feathers on the outside are known as the dance feathers.  These are the ones we wear on the dance roach when we perform the eagle dance.”

   “The remaining eight feathers stand for what Native Americans, and all Americans, should be,” he added.  “These traits are honesty, truth, majesty, strength, courage, wisdom, power and lastly, majesty.”

  In order to prepare for the dance, Vallejo has to dress accordingly.  On his head, he wears a head roach:  which is a traditional headpiece fashioned of porcupine skin with red, white and blue feathers atop.  And he must abstain from consuming alcohol.  They must handle the eight eagle feathers with care so as not to drop them.  In the event that they drop a feather on the floor, the drum would stop playing and a veteran would pick it up and return it to the dancer.

   At one time, Vallejo said Indian tribes could trade eagle feathers for a horse.  His grandfather taught him how to clean eagle feathers by dipping them twice in a river.  Today, he still goes to the Mississippi River to clean the eagle feathers he owns.

   Members of federally recognized tribes are allowed to own eagle feathers because of their great cultural and religious significance.  However, even eligible Native Americans must get a permit to receive and own them.  They are allowed to wear, use, inherit, and give eagle feathers to other Native Americans, but they cannot give them to non-Natives.

Celebrating 10 Years of the Vintage Farm Equipment Show in Atkinson

This year marks a special milestone for one of Henry County’s most beloved traditions—the 10th Anniversary of the Vintage Farm Equipment Show, happening Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Bridge Park in Atkinson, Illinois.

For show organizers and participants, this isn’t just an event—it’s a way of honoring the past while inspiring the future of agriculture. For over 50 years, community members have gathered around tractors, cars, and farm equipment that tell the story of rural life. And for the last decade, Atkinson has been home to a show that blends history, family fun, and heartfelt remembrance.

Honoring Our Tractor Friends

One of the most unique traditions of the Atkinson show is its annual memorial display. Each year, tractors and items are exhibited to honor show participants who have passed away. Over the years, the show has lost 28 of its tractor friends, and this tradition ensures that their stories—and their love of agriculture—live on.

For the 10th anniversary, this memorial will take center stage, reminding us that this show is about more than machines—it’s about people, families, and community.

Supporting the Next Generation

The show also raises awareness and funding for seven Henry County Agricultural Museums and supports the Young Collectors Group, which encourages kids to learn, participate, and carry forward the legacy of farming.

It’s not just about looking back—it’s about growing the future of agriculture.

What to Expect This Year

Visitors to the 2025 Vintage Farm Equipment Show can enjoy:

  • A shaded, park-like setting with modern restrooms, just 1.5 blocks from downtown Atkinson

  • Old-fashioned ice cream served by J.C. Old Fashioned Ice Cream

  • Guest presenter Dan Dauw, a living history speaker, who will give two presentations (10 a.m. and 11 a.m.) on the fascinating history of aircraft carriers

Plus, the kitchen will be serving food from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (or while supplies last).

Event Details

📅 Saturday, September 13, 2025
🕗 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
📍 Bridge Park, 19030 E 2120 Street (Rock Island Avenue), Atkinson, IL 61235
🎟️ Free admission – everyone is welcome!

A Celebration of Heritage and Community

As the Vintage Farm Equipment Show celebrates its 10th year, it continues to be more than just a display of tractors and farm machinery. It’s a community gathering, a way of honoring those who came before us, and an opportunity to inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders.

So mark your calendar, bring your family, and join Atkinson in celebrating 10 years of history, heritage, and hometown pride.