To the Graduates: A Letter From Your Hometown

We saw you—long before caps and gowns and graduation announcements.

We saw you when your feet barely touched the floor at the elementary lunch tables. We saw you at Green Machine games under Friday night lights, in packed gyms, on stages, in uniforms, in band tees, in work shirts with name tags. We saw you behind the counter at Culver’s, walking State Street with your friends, driving the same few roads over and over again— because for a while, this was your whole world.

We saw you grow up in a place where people still wave when they pass you. Where your last name means something. Where somebody always knows your parents. Or your grandparents. Or your story.

A place that quietly carried you long before you understood what that meant.

And now—just like that—you’re stepping out of it.

Out of the routines. Out of the familiar. Out of the place that, whether you realized it or not, has been shaping you this whole time.

Geneseo is not a loud place.

It doesn’t demand attention. It doesn’t try to be something it’s not. It shows up in steady ways. Quiet ways. The kind that don’t always feel important until you leave and realize not everywhere works like this.

Not everywhere rallies for its own the way this town does. Not everywhere fills the streets for a parade, packs the stands, or builds something together just because it matters. Not everywhere feels like people are paying attention.

But here— they were.

People noticed the effort you put in, even in the small moments. When you stayed late. When you did something small that turned out to mean something bigger.

This town carried belief in you during moments when you struggled to find it yourself. And that stays with you.

You carry the rhythm of this place. The expectations without words. The understanding that being part of something means showing up for it— event when it’s inconvenient, even when no one asks you to.

You carry the sidewalks of State Street. The noise of a game night. The stillness of a Sunday morning. The feeling of walking into a place and being known without having to explain yourself.

That experience changes you. And it doesn’t leave.

No matter where you go next—whether it’s five miles away or five states away—this place goes with you.

In how you treat people. In how you work. In what you expect from a community—and what you’re willing to give back to one.

And someday—maybe sooner than you think—you’ll find yourself in a place that doesn’t feel quite right yet.

Too fast. Too impersonal. Too unfamiliar.

And without even realizing it, you’ll start looking for pieces of this.

For eye contact. For consistency. For people who mean what they say. For something that feels a little slower, a little steadier, a little more real.

That’s when you’ll understand it: Geneseo didn’t just raise you.

It rooted you.

It gave you something to measure the rest of the world against.

Because this isn’t just where you’re from. It’s part of how you move through the world.

So go—build something, chase something, become something. Go make a life that stretches beyond these streets.

But when you do, carry this place with you—not just in memory, but in how you show up wherever you land.

Because that’s how it lasts.

Not in the buildings. Not in the streets. But in you.

And no matter how far you go, no matter how much changes, no matter how long it’s been—

There will always be a place where your name still means something. Where someone will say, “Oh, I know them,” and smile.

We’ll be here—same streets, same corners, same quiet pride—watching the next group grow up the way you did. And there will always be a place for you here.

Because once a place helps shape you like this, it never fully leaves.

And neither do you.

—Geneseo

GHS Bass Fishing Team Wins Regional Title

Geneseo High School’s bass fishing team competed at Regionals recently, joining a field of 19 boats with two students competing per boat.

GHS students Jace Wainscott and Byrer Uthoff earned a first-place regional finish, bringing home plaques and medals for their performance on the water. Wainscott also received an additional medal for catching the biggest fish of the competition.

The team is coached by Mr. Nick Verbeck.

Geneseo School Board Recap: Retirements, Solar Energy, and Career Education

The Geneseo Board of Education meeting on May 14 featured recognition for longtime educators, discussion surrounding a proposed district solar project, and updates on district finances .

The meeting began with recognition of Pinks’ Bus Service’s 80th anniversary, along with acknowledgment of seven retiring educators who collectively represent decades of service to Geneseo schools. Those recognized included Kathy Buysse, Scott Christensen, Darren Hall, Larry Johnsen Jr., Dean Johnson, Stephen LaCroix, and Bob Thomas.

Consultant Mike Ellis of E-Quantum Consulting was present to answer board questions about the proposed solar project at the middle school. The proposed project carries an estimated cost of approximately $569,000, with projected rebates totaling roughly $227,000. Renewable energy credits could further offset costs with a projected payback period of around 9.5 years.

Board members discussed multiple logistical considerations tied to the project, including panel placement, fencing requirements, electrical infrastructure complications, and whether alternate locations near athletic facilities or parking areas may be preferable. District officials also discussed the need to gather additional competitive quotes before moving forward. A formal vote on the project will take place during the June 11 meeting after revised estimates and updated information are reviewed.

District financial updates showed sales tax revenue increasing approximately 17% year-over-year, while the district’s expense budget remains on track.

The board also discussed the district’s ongoing education fund deficit and measures being explored to improve long-term sustainability. District leadership indicated stabilization efforts will likely require a combination of cost-saving measures, staffing adjustments through attrition, and continued operational review rather than a single-year solution.

Additional financial discussion centered around an interfund loan resolution tied to the education fund, with more than $2 million in working cash expected to be temporarily transferred to the education fund before eventually being repaid.

Superintendent reports also included information on an upcoming Career & Technical Education Center dedication ceremony on May 19 at 1:30.

District officials also discussed an intergovernmental agreement with Riverdale, Annawan, and Cambridge that would allow students from those districts to participate in Geneseo’s Building Trades program through the Career & Technical Education Center. Administrators indicated approximately seven non-Geneseo students are currently expected to participate. District leadership emphasized the partnership would not reduce opportunities or available spots for Geneseo students, but instead helps strengthen and sustain the program through broader regional participation.

The board additionally completed or reviewed several routine annual items, including administrative contracts, cafeteria meal pricing, transportation contracts, handbooks, policy updates, and the tentative amended FY26 budget.

The Geneseo Education Foundation was also recognized for donating nearly $62,000 in grants to the district.

Further information on the proposed solar project is forthcoming.

Geneseo City Council Discusses Infrastructure Costs, Rail Plans, and Police Recruitment Challenges




The Geneseo City Council meeting on May 12 featured major discussions surrounding rising infrastructure costs, the future possibility of passenger rail service in Geneseo, ongoing public works projects, and growing concerns over police recruitment and retention.

Former Alderman Roodhouse with Major Johnson

The meeting also marked a transition on the council, as Alderman James Roodhouse concluded eight years of service on the council. Mayor Sean Johnson thanked Roodhouse for his dedication to the city, praising his precision, professionalism, and continued service to the community through his role with the Geneseo School District.

Major John and Alderman Arnold are sworn in

Former Geneseo police officer Chavez sworn in

Mayor Sean Johnson and Alderman Craig Arnold were officially sworn in following their reelection victories, while Michael Chavez was later appointed to fill the vacant Ward 2 council seat. Chavez, a longtime Geneseo police officer, was praised by the mayor for his commitment to the community and public service background.

Chamber Reports Strong Event Participation

Chamber officials introduced new Executive Director Lindsie Akers, who officially began the role May 4. Chamber President Jenna Rushing highlighted Akers’ background in marketing, event management, and communications.

The Chamber also reported strong attendance at recent downtown events. Organizers said Art Walk benefited significantly from the addition of the Farmers Market downtown, while more than 400 tickets were sold for the upcoming Wine Walk. Rushing said 28 businesses are participating in the event.

North State Street Construction Continues

IMEG Engineering discussed progress on the North State Street reconstruction project, noting that sewer work has been completed and crews are now installing the water main. Ogden Avenue has reopened following utility work near the high school.

Officials said the project remains on an aggressive timeline, with hopes of reaching significant completion before the start of the school year.

The city is also continuing work on Well 33, though delays with IEPA permitting continue to slow activation of the new water source.

Sidewalk Project Sparks Budget Concerns

A lengthy discussion focused on the Chicago Street sidewalk project after final engineering estimates came in significantly higher than the city’s original preliminary estimates. Engineers explained the increase was largely tied to ADA compliance issues discovered during final surveying.

Council members questioned why the costs were not identified earlier, while engineers explained that preliminary budgeting estimates are often developed before full site surveying occurs. Mayor Johnson acknowledged the frustration but noted the issue stemmed from final elevation measurements showing portions of the roadway were slightly outside ADA compliance standards.

The council ultimately approved a bid of approximately $184,000 for the construction costs, including spending roughly $42,000 above the original budget estimate.

Pedestrian Bridge Costs Rise

The council also revisited concerns regarding the proposed pedestrian bridge near Richmond Hill. Engineers explained that updated Illinois Department of Natural Resources floodway requirements forced major redesign changes, including raising the bridge nearly six feet to eliminate any measurable floodwater rise during major flooding events.

Officials expressed frustration with what they described as inconsistent state-level regulatory interpretations and increasing project costs. Mayor Johnson said the city remains in a difficult position because the current crossing area lacks a safe pedestrian route.

Further discussion on bridge costs and potential grant support is expected later this month.

Passenger Rail Discussion Expected This Summer

City Administrator Brandon Maeglin reported that IDOT is expected to visit Geneseo in the coming months to formally discuss the long-discussed passenger rail proposal that could bring a rail stop to the city.

Officials said the city would eventually need to decide whether it is willing to commit to building and maintaining a rail depot if the project moves forward. Mayor Johnson emphasized that while the concept is exciting, the long-term financial obligations could significantly affect future city capital planning.

Council members also discussed gathering additional public input before making any long-term decisions regarding the project.

Police Recruitment Becoming Increasingly Difficult

Mayor Johnson and Police Chief Casey Disterhoft described growing challenges in recruiting police officers, calling the current hiring environment one of the most difficult they have seen.

Officials said departments across Illinois are competing for a shrinking pool of applicants, with some agencies offering large signing bonuses and other incentives. The city recently formed an ad hoc committee to explore ways Geneseo can remain competitive in both recruiting and retaining officers.

Additional Updates

Additional updates during the meeting included:

  • Work beginning on full rehabilitation and painting of the North Water Tower

  • Delivery of the city’s new jet truck for sewer maintenance

  • Upcoming ribbon cutting plans for the Richmond Hill Park stage project

  • Approval of a $50,000 revolving loan fund request for DeSplinter Electric to assist with parking lot improvements following reconstruction of its tornado-damaged facility

April FFA Update: Budding Our Way into Spring

By Jacey Gehl

The chapter has had a busy yet successful spring season with plentiful success in competitions, development of leadership and career skills, celebrations of member accomplishments, and glimpses into the growth we’ll see in the coming year. 

District 1 Parliamentary Procedure and Conduct of Chapter Meetings

Our two teams recently got to compete in District 1 Leadership Development Events: Parliamentary Procedure and Conduct of Chapter Meetings. Both teams earned second-place finishes in their respective contests and will advance to the district competition on May 7th. Talk about leadership being developed!

The Parliamentary Procedure team includes Chairperson Hannah Wildemuth, Floorperson 1 Dawsyn McDonald, Floorperson 2 Annabelle Betcher, Floorperson 3 Jackson Frank, Floorperson 5 Jacey Gehl, and Floorperson 6 Ella Schaaf.

Parliamentary Procedure teaches students how to properly conduct meetings using Parliamentary Law and Robert’s Rules of Order. During the contest, members demonstrate their ability to handle motions, debate, voting procedures, and other official meeting business while working together as a team under timed conditions. 

The Conduct of Chapter Meetings team consists of President Faith Kuster, Vice President Ashlynn Chamberlain, Secretary Delaney Killian, Reporter Faith Schaver, Treasurer Lili Marshall, Sentinel Molly Wannemacher, and Advisor Henry Dwyer.

The Conduct of Chapter Meetings contest focuses on opening and closing ceremonies, officer duties, teamwork, and knowledge of FFA history and procedure. Members are evaluated on their accuracy, professionalism, and ability to perform the responsibilities of their officer position.

Chapter FFA Banquet

The chapter held its annual FFA Banquet on April 17, recognizing members for their dedication, leadership, and accomplishments throughout the year. The evening celebrated student success in competitions, Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs), leadership activities, and community involvement.

Special recognition was given to graduating seniors Bella Bailey, Peyton Kies, James Matthews, Dawsyn McDonald, Isaac Nixon, and Bee Scheider for their years of commitment and service to the chapter. We cannot thank them enough!

Workhorse Award

The Workhorse Award was presented to Cheyenne Hopkey. This award recognizes a member who consistently works behind the scenes to support the chapter through hard work, dependability, and dedication. Whether helping at events, assisting teammates, or volunteering whenever needed, Cheyenne has consistently demonstrated leadership through service and commitment.

Greenhand Degree Recipients

The Greenhand Degree is awarded to first-year FFA members who have demonstrated involvement in agricultural education, participation in chapter activities, and a commitment to learning about the FFA organization. To earn the degree, members must meet requirements including having plans for a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE), understanding the FFA creed and motto, and becoming actively involved in chapter events and leadership opportunities. The degree marks an important milestone for new members as they begin building their leadership, personal growth, and career success within agricultural education.

This year’s Greenhand Degree recipients were:

  • Ashlynn Chamberlain

  • Henry Dwyer

  • Camryn Ebert

  • Mason Emerick

  • Faith Kuster

  • Lili Marshall

  • Ella Schaaf

  • Faith Schaver

  • Molly Wannemacher

  • Levi Wyffels

Molly Wannemacher was recognized as the chapter’s Star Greenhand, an award presented to an outstanding first-year member for exceptional involvement and achievement.

Chapter Degree Recipients

The Chapter FFA Degree recognizes members who have shown significant growth in leadership, agricultural knowledge, and participation in FFA activities beyond the Greenhand level. Members earning this degree have demonstrated a deeper commitment to the organization through involvement in competitions, community service projects, chapter events, and Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) programs. To qualify, students must meet requirements related to agricultural education coursework, earnings or hours worked in their SAE, and active participation in chapter functions. Receiving the Chapter Degree reflects a member’s continued dedication to developing leadership skills, strengthening agricultural understanding, and contributing positively to the chapter and community.

Recipients included:

  • Ella Clementz

  • Aidan Daly

  • Emilie DeCastecker

  • Riley Dwyer

  • Jackson Frank

  • Jacey Gehl

  • Jack Gehling

  • Kaylin Heller

  • Kali Herberg

  • Cheyenne Hopkey

  • Jillian McMahill

  • Maycie Sims

  • Hannah Wildemuth

Jackson Frank was named the chapter’s Star Chapter Member for his outstanding leadership, participation, and contributions throughout the year.

State Degree Recognition

During the banquet, seniors Dawsyn McDonald and Peyton Kies were recognized for being recommended to receive the Illinois State FFA Degree, one of the highest honors awarded by the Illinois FFA Association.

The State Degree recognizes years of dedication to agricultural education, leadership development, FFA participation, and Supervised Agricultural Experience programs. The degrees will officially be awarded during the Illinois State FFA Convention this summer.

The chapter also presented Honorary Chapter Degrees to Troy and Val McDonald in appreciation of their continued support of the FFA program and its members.

2026-2027 Chapter Officers

The newly elected chapter officers for the upcoming year are:

  • President — Annabelle Betcher

  • Vice President of Growing Leaders — Kolby Causemaker

  • Vice President of Strengthening Agriculture — Jacey Gehl

  • Vice President of Building Communities — Jackson Frank

  • Reporter — Emilie DeCastecker

  • Secretary — Hannah Wildemuth

  • Treasurer — Maycie Sims

  • Sentinel — Kaylin Heller

They are so excited to serve our chapter in the coming year!

Section 3 Public Speaking Contest

Members also competed at the Section 3 Public Speaking Contest hosted by Bureau Valley High School.

In Creed Speaking, participants recite and interpret the FFA Creed while answering questions about its meaning and purpose. Faith Kuster earned first place in the varsity division, while Ashlynn Chamberlain placed second in the junior varsity division.

Prepared Public Speaking requires members to research an agricultural topic, write an original speech, and present it before a panel of judges. Kolby Causemaker placed second in varsity prepared speaking, and Camryn Ebert earned first place in the junior varsity division.

Extemporaneous Speaking challenges contestants to prepare and deliver a speech on an agricultural issue within a limited amount of preparation time. Dawsyn McDonald placed second in varsity extemporaneous speaking, and Jacey Gehl earned first place in the junior varsity division.

Dawsyn, Kolby, and Faith will be moving on to the District Competition!

State Livestock Career Development Event

Henry Dwyer, Lydia Carton, and Kolby Causemaker competed in the Reasons Division at the State Livestock Career Development Event.

The livestock judging contest requires students to evaluate and rank classes of livestock animals based on industry standards for structural correctness, muscling, balance, and overall quality. In the Reasons Division, contestants must also verbally defend their placings before judges, demonstrating communication skills and agricultural knowledge.

Kolby Causemaker earned an impressive fourth-place finish individually in the state competition!


Geneseo FFA Coverage is proudly sponsored by Valley Insurance.

Geneseo School Board Preview: Solar Proposal, Staff Changes, Meal Prices and More

The Geneseo Board of Education is set to meet Thursday, May 14 at 5:30 p.m. at the district office, with agenda items ranging from solar energy planning and cafeteria meal prices to staffing changes, vocational partnerships, grants, and end-of-year recognitions.

One of the evening’s major discussion items will involve a presentation and Q&A regarding solar energy opportunities for the district. Mike Ellis of E-Quantum Consulting is scheduled to speak with the board regarding a proposed solar project tied to Geneseo Middle School.

According to board materials, the proposal outlines a potential 201.84 kW solar installation capable of producing an estimated 270,633 kWh annually and offsetting approximately 37.6% of the middle school’s energy use. The proposal estimates a total project cost of approximately $569,000 before incentives. However, federal direct-pay tax incentives and Illinois renewable energy incentives could reduce the district’s estimated net cost to roughly $115,000. (Find solar plan details here.)

The board will also consider proposed cafeteria meal price increases for the 2026-27 school year as the district works toward federally required Paid Lunch Equity pricing targets.

Under the proposal:

  • Elementary lunch prices would increase from $3.10 to $3.20

  • Grades 6-12 lunches would increase from $3.30 to $3.40

  • Adult lunches would increase from $4.75 to $5.00

  • Student breakfast prices would increase from $2.25 to $2.35

  • Milk prices would remain unchanged at $0.50 per carton

District officials note the recommendations are based on federal Paid Lunch Equity requirements under the Healthy Hunger Free Kids Act. (See lunch price details here.)

Several agenda items focus on personnel and staffing ahead of next school year. Board materials include anticipated teaching assignments, extracurricular sponsors, coaching positions, internal transfers, and student teacher placements for 2026-27. Proposed assignments include positions tied to National Honor Society, Dance Marathon, Special Olympics, vocal music, science, and athletics. (See details here.)

The board is also expected to review proposed ESP (Educational Support Personnel) handbook and policy changes for the 2026-27 school year. Proposed revisions involve overtime procedures, time sheet submissions, sick leave requests, bereavement leave documentation, insurance language updates, and wage schedule adjustments. (Details available here.)

Another notable topic involves vocational and career education partnerships. The board is expected to review intergovernmental agreements tied to Geneseo’s vocational center programming, including partnerships with Cambridge and Annawan school districts. The agreements would allow eligible students from participating districts to attend Geneseo vocational courses, subject to enrollment capacity and available space. (Details available here.)

Financially, the district’s May financial report shows monthly expenditures totaling approximately $2.9 million, including both payroll and board bills. Board materials describe expenditures as “typical expenditures for this time of year.” (See report here.)

The district’s education fund cash balance has continued to decline through the fiscal year, with the report showing the education fund balance at approximately $57,105 at the end of April. Other operating funds, including operations and maintenance, transportation, and debt service, remain substantially higher.

The meeting will also include several recognitions and celebrations.

The board plans to recognize Pinks’ Bus Service for 80 years of partnership with the district. Superintendent Dr. Laura Delgado’s report notes that Pinks’ has transported Geneseo students since 1946.

Several retiring educators and staff members will also be recognized, including:

  • Kathy Buysse

  • Scott Christensen

  • Darren Hall

  • Larry Johnsen Jr.

  • Dean Johnson

  • Steven LaCroix

  • Bob Thomas

Dr. Delgado’s report additionally notes that the final student attendance day for the 2025-26 school year will be May 22 with an 11:30 dismissal, while the first student attendance day for the 2026-27 school year is scheduled for August 12. (See the report here.)

Board materials also include a lengthy list of Geneseo Education Foundation spring grants supporting classroom and extracurricular initiatives across the district. (Details can be found here.)

Some of the larger grants include:

  • $9,900 for a Cirque Amongus circus arts program

  • $7,596 for marching band trumpets

  • $6,120 for middle school science and math calculators

  • Robotics and STEM-related classroom equipment

  • Literacy and guided reading resources

  • Communication tools and adaptive learning materials

The meeting is open to the public and will be held at the Geneseo CUSD #228 District Office located at 648 N. Chicago Street.

Find complete meeting information here.