Henry County Fair Welcomes Cooper Alan

CAMBRIDGE, IL (MAR 1, 2024) – The Henry County Fair Board is excited to announce the 2024 Henry County Fair headliner! Cooper Alan is an independent artist who has racked up over 225 million streams, a massive digital presence with more than 14 million followers across all social media platforms, and a touring footprint that has sold over 85,000 tickets. An opening act will be announced at a later date.

The concert takes place in Cambridge, Illinois, at the Henry County Fairgrounds. Gates will open at 5:30PM and the show will start at 7PM. Tickets (on sale now) and more concert information can be found at www.henrycountyfairillinois.com.

About the Henry County Fair: We are excited to celebrate 165 years in 2024! The Henry County Fair is located in Cambridge, Illinois, and has provided entertainment and education to the community since 1859. With livestock shows, carnival rides, food, live entertainment, and much more, there truly is "Family Fun for Everyone" at our county fair!

Please find out more about the fair and the concert by visiting www.henrycountyfairillinois.com or by following them on Facebook @HenryCoFairIL.

Richmond Hill Players Set Extra Auditions Saturday and Sunday

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

Geneseo’s Richmond Hill Players has scheduled extra auditions as there is a need for five males for two shows scheduled this spring and summer.

The auditions are scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 2, and Sunday, March 3. Attendance is required at only one day’s audition.

The shows in need of actors:

“Laura” – a mystery that runs May 30-June 2 and June 6-9 – directed by John Donald O’Shea – rehearsals begin April 22 and there is a need for three males for the play.

-Mark McPhearson: The male lead, an honest, hard-working detective, 30-40 years old, and not afraid of a tough case.

-Shelby Carpenter: Laura’s parasitic fiancé, age close to Laura’s age (30’s), slight Southern accent, a charming, somewhat ineffectual man.

-Danny Dorgan: A Julliard student, in love with Laura, old enough to have a love-interest in Laura, not old enough for Laura to reciprocate.

“84 Charing Cross Road” – a comedy-drama that runs July 11-14 and July 18-21, directed by Jennifer Kingry – rehearsals begin early to mid June and there is a need for two males for the play.

-William Humphries: Mild-mannered employee in the London bookshop; age variable, 20’s to 40’s; has a good deal of onstage business without much dialogue; a few words here and there, and one short speech (a thank-you letter he has written). Speaks with an English accent.

-Thomas: A late arrival in the play, only onstage in the second act, plays a new-hire at the bookshop during the 1960’s (Beatles era, could be a teenager (upper teens). No scripted dialogue, but a few words may be improvised in rehearsals. Would like to cast someone wiling to help backstage. (Good opportunity for high school junior student looking for Richmond Hill Players experience to qualify for one of their scholarships in 2025).

The 2024 Henry County Fair Pageant will be held on Tuesday, June 18 at the Henry County Fairgrounds.

Entry forms for the pageant will be available on Friday, March 1 beginning at 8:00 a.m.  

Contestants must live in or attend school in Henry County (or attended a Henry County high school if currently in college). The age divisions for each group are as follows:

• Little Miss, 5 - 7 on pageant day 

• Jr. Miss, 12 - 14 on pageant day 

• Miss, 16 - 21 on January 1, 2025  

The entry forms will be available on the Henry County Fair Queen Pageant Facebook page and Instagram account, or can be emailed or texted directly if requested. For questions or additional information, please reach out to Pageant Director Kelli Patton, at henrycopageant@gmail.com or (309) 944-7743. 

Space for Food Pantry?

By Mindy Carls
West Henry News

Should the Orion Area Food Pantry continue to have space in a new or renovated village hall? Supporters of the food pantry are expected to present their case during the regular meeting at 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 19.

　At a special meeting on Sept. 29, 2022, Trustee Steve Newman moved to include at least 1,000 square feet for the food pantry. The motion passed on a voice vote.

　At its regular meeting on Monday, Feb. 5, a year and a half later, the village board reviewed the most recent floor plan and cost estimate for a new village hall. The floor plan did not include the food pantry.

　Trustee Mel Drucker said he was tired of Orion taxpayers paying for projects to benefit the Orion school district. A food pantry was worthwhile, but why was it the village’s responsibility to provide space?

　Village President Jim Cooper said the food pantry could buy the existing village hall.

　Trustee Bob Mitton commented on the cost of renovating or constructing a village hall.

　“Is it going to get cheaper down the road?” Trustee Bob Mitton said. He is the chairman of buildings and grounds. “We will never get to the point where everything else is taken care of and now we can do village hall.”

　After the meeting, the food pantry’s Steve Wright commented on the issue. The village hall has provided space for the food pantry since the mid-1980s.

　The food pantry has a small office on the main floor of the current village hall, plus shelves and refrigeration in the basement, Wright said. It does not take up 1,000 square feet.

　In a new village hall, 1,000 square fee would be more than adequate, he said.

　The food pantry board has discussed options, Wright said. They include housing it out of town, or co-oping with another food pantry, such as Coal Valley, Colona, Cambridge or Sherrard, or disbanding. They have not discussed these options with other food pantries.

　The Orion Food Pantry served 334 families in 2023. Seventy percent, or 233, lived in the Village of Orion limits.

Radium Girls Production March 8th and 9th

The Galva Jr/Sr High School Drama Club will perform Radium Girls at 7 pm on March 8th and 9th, 2024 in the High School gymnasium. Radium Girls is written by D.W. Gregory and directed by Jillian Rodseth and Joe Angelo.  In 1926, radium was a miracle cure, Madame Curie an international celebrity, and luminous watches the latest rage—until the girls who painted them began to fall ill with a mysterious disease.

Inspired by a true story, Radium Girls traces the efforts of Grace Fryer, a dial painter, as she fights for her day in court. Her chief adversary is her former employer, Arthur Roeder, an idealistic man who cannot bring himself to believe that the same element that shrinks tumors could have anything to do with the terrifying rash of illnesses among his employees. As the case goes on, however, Grace finds herself battling not just with the U.S. Radium Corporation, but with her own family and friends, who fear that her campaign for justice will backfire. Written with warmth and humor, and called a "powerful" and "engrossing" drama by critics, Radium Girls offers a wry, unflinching look at the peculiarly American obsessions with health, wealth, and the commercialization of science.

Tickets are $8 and are available at the door. Doors open at 6:15. Science sodas, t-shirts, and concessions will be available before the show.

The Illinois Park & Recreation Association (IPRA) proudly announces the election of Andrew Thurman as the 2024 Chair of its Board of Directors.

Heather Weishaar
Communications & Marketing Director
Illinois Parks & Recreation Association
heather@ILipra.org
708.588.2280

La Grange, IL – The Illinois Park & Recreation Association (IPRA) proudly announces the election of Andrew Thurman as the 2024 Chair of its Board of Directors. 

Andrew Thurman grew up in Geneseo, Illinois and graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a Bachelor of Arts in Leisure, Youth and Human Service. His career began at the Lake Bluff Park District, and in 2014, he accepted the position of Superintendent of Recreation at the Geneseo Park District. There, he was very involved in the construction of the John & Carla Edwards Aquatic Center, which received the IPRA Outstanding Facilities and Park Award in 2018. In 2016, he accepted the Executive Director position in Geneseo. Under his leadership, they’ve made refurbishments to the gymnasium, worked collaboratively with local organizations, and introduced numerous free community events, made possible through the Geneseo Park District Foundation's support.

 Andy, his wife Morgan, and their two children love spending time camping, hiking and just being outside. He is also an avid runner, and in 2022, he completed his first half ironman! Andrew serves on the boards of the Geneseo Youth Baseball/Softball Association and the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, he is honored to be a Geneseo Rotarian, contributing to the betterment of Geneseo’s vibrant community.

 Reflecting on his upcoming role, ‘I’m honored to serve as Chair of the IPRA Board. The foundation has been set by those before me, and with a new Strategic Plan and a vibrant, engaging staff we are excited for the future’ – Andrew Thurman, CPRP

 ‘We are thrilled and fortunate that Andy will be serving as IPRA Board Chair this year. With his extensive background and knowledge of the field and the association, he is the perfect leader to help guide staff as we embark on a new strategic plan,’ – Suzi Wirtz, IOM, Executive Director.

‘I personally am excited to work with him and the entire IPRA Board to develop and achieve the goals necessary to continue advancing this important profession.’

 Established in 1944, the Illinois Park and Recreation Association serves nearly 3,000 park, recreation, and conservation professionals throughout the state, and is a national leader in providing premier education, networking, and resources. For more information about IPRA, its board and mission, please visit the IPRA website: www.ILipra.org.

Andy Thurman. Submitted

Richmond Hill Players Schedule Audition Dates

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Richmond Hill Players will hold auditions for the first three shows of the 2024 season from 1 to 3 on Saturday, Feb. 10; from 3 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, February 11, at the Barn Theatre atop Richmond Hill in Geneseo.

The plays have available roles for 9-10 males and 10-12 females, ranging from late teens through 60’s.

Upcoming auditions are for the plays “Exit Laughing,” a comedy by Paul Elliot, directed by Mike Skiles, with show running April 11-21; “Laura,” a mystery by Vera Caspary and George Skylar, directed by John Donald O’Shea and the show running May 30-June 9; and “84 Charing Cross Road,” comedy-drama adapted by James Roose-Evans from the book by Helene Hanff, directed by Jennifer Kingry, with the show running July 11-21.

For more details about the shows and auditions, visit the RHP website www.rhplayers.com.

Fun Happenings in Annawan to Benefit Parks and Recreation

By Claudia Loucks

On February 17th, entertainment and activities are planned in Annawan to benefit programs offered by the Parks and Recreation Department.

Maddie Mackey, Director of Annawan Parks and Recreation, has scheduled “Felix & Fingers Dueling Pianos” to perform on Saturday, Feb. 17, at the Best Western Banquet Hall, 317 North Canal St., Annawan. Doors will open at 6 p.m. with the Dueling Pianos to begin at 7 p.m.

Tickets for the fundraiser are $40 per person and tables may be reserved by contacting Maddie Mackey at email annawanparksandrec@gmail.com or by phone at 309-935-6264.

There will be cash games and a cash bar beginning at 6 p.m.

Proceeds from the event will be used for Annawan Youth Sports and new opportunities to expend recreation activities in Annawan.

EVERY WEDNESDAY:

A Queen of Hearts raffle is held weekly at Mick’s Bar & Grill, 101 South East St. in Annawan. At 7 p.m. each Wednesday a ticket is drawn until the Queen of Hearts is found on a board. The current jackpot is up to $17,365. If the winner is present at the drawing, he or she will receive 70 percent of the pot, which would be $12,155.50. If the winner is not present, they will receive 60 percent of the pot which is $10,419.

The remaining portion of the pot will benefit the Annawan Parks and Recreation Department to help pay off the Community Center and to pay for the Annual Fun Days festivities in June. If no Queen of Hearts is found that week, there will be a rollover with new tickets sold for the next week.

Anyone with questions is asked to contact Mackey at 309-935-6264.

Maddie Mackey

Londen Fulks Gets Her Chance at Miss Illinois

In recent years Londen Fulks has sat in the audience of the Miss Illinois County Fair Queen pageant cheering on some of her closest friends, but this year she’ll have her chance to walk across the stage representing Henry County in hopes of being selected to reign as the 2024 State Fair Queen. 

Londen is the 19 year old daughter of Jason Fulks and Nicole Fulks and is from Atkinson.  She competed in the Henry County Pageant last June, winning the title just four years after she was named the 2019 Junior Miss Henry County. 

“It has been an absolute pleasure to represent a county that I love so dearly,” said Fulks. “I’ve learned a lot about my community, and I’ve made some incredible memories during my years as queen. I can’t wait to walk across the stage in Springfield and I hope to make everyone proud. “

Fulks will compete for the state title January 12-14 at the Crowne Plaza in Springfield. The state pageant is held in conjunction with the annual convention of county fairs, the Illinois Association of Agricultural Fairs (IAAF).

“I’ve been working primarily on interview and perfecting my speech,” said Fulks. “I have loved getting the chance to talk to past Henry County queens about their experiences at state and it’s made me that much more excited for this weekend. I can’t wait to make forever friends and memories.” 

Fulks is contestant number 20 of the 73 young women competing in this year’s pageant. Each contestant will have a four-minute interview with the panel of judges, and will also compete in evening gown, swimsuit, and speech categories. 

The top 16 finalists will be announced on Sunday, January 14. Each finalist will re-compete in the evening gown, swimsuit, and speech categories. They will also be judged on three pop questions. The new state queen will be chosen and crowned that evening. 

She is currently a freshman at Iowa State University majoring in animal science on a pre-veterinary track with a minor in ag communications. She plans to attend veterinary school and pursue a career as a production and small animal veterinarian. She is currently a member of the Pre-Veterinary Club, International Agriculture Club, and the Vet-Science Team. She has been on the high honor roll, received an award for the highest GPA in FFA, and was a recipient of the Geneseo High School Ag Alumni Scholarship.

Londen Fulks - Submitted

Scooter’s Coffee Opens First Location in Geneseo, IL New Store to Celebrate with Grand Opening Event on January 12th

Geneseo, IL January 3, 2024 - Scooter’s Coffee, best known for its amazingly fast drive-thru, specialty coffee, and baked-from-scratch pastries, added a new location at 1000 S. Oakwood Ave. Geneseo, IL. To celebrate, the drive-thru location will be hosting a Grand Opening on Friday, January 12, 2024 where customers can buy one drink to get one free when they pay with the Scooter’s Coffee mobile app.

With the app, customers earn three “Smiles” for every dollar spent to collect toward free drinks for their loyalty. To scoot through faster, customers can also link a credit card to the app and select “Pay/Earn Smiles” from the home screen. Then, if they choose to tip, customers can select a custom amount or percentage prior to scanning their app.

To scoot through even faster, Mobile Order Ahead is also available. Ordering ahead allows customers to order their favorite drinks and food, pay ahead, and pick up quickly at the drive-thru window. The Scooter’s Coffee app is available for download on the App Store or Google Play.

The drive-thru location is owned and operated by Donald C. Peterson Jr. Jeremy Music, Kris Pickens, & Rob Bowers.

Scooter’s Coffee is a drive-thru franchise that has been serving world-class coffee for 25 years and has nearly 750 locations in 30 states across the nation. With commitments to build new stores in 30 states, the company plans to open many additional locations in 2024. Its signature drink is the Caramelicious, and the menu features an array of specialty espresso beverages, energy Infusions, hot and cold brewed coffee, fruit smoothies, baked-from-scratch pastries, and savory breakfast options.

Connect with Scooter’s Coffee via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter and share your favorite moments by tagging @scooterscoffee using the hashtag #BeAmazing.

About Scooter’s Coffee Founded in 1998 by Don and Linda Eckles in Bellevue, Nebraska, Scooter’s Coffee roasts only the finest coffee beans in the world at its headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska. In more than two decades of business, Scooter’s Coffee’s success is simple: stay committed to the original business principles and company’s four core values, which are Integrity, Love, Humility and Courage. The Scooter’s Coffee Brand Promise, often recited to franchisees, customers and employees is: “Amazing People, Amazing Drinks… Amazingly Fast!®” It represents the company’s business origins from 1998 and reflects a steady commitment to providing an unforgettable experience to loyal and new customers.

Scooter’s Coffee is at the dawn of a strategic growth phase in the Midwest and nationwide. The U.S. coffee market is an estimated $48 billion a year recession-resistant industry, and Scooter’s Coffee is striving to become the #1 drive-thru coffee franchise in the nation. Visit ownascooters.com to learn more about the benefits of owning a franchise of a well-established company.

For more information, visit scooterscoffee.com, facebook.com/scooterscoffee, ownascooters.com or call 877-494-7004.

Laugh Your Way into the Holidays with "Somewhere South of the North Pole" Christmas Comedy Sketch Variety Show

KEWANEE, Illinios—Get ready for an uproarious evening filled with laughter, music, and holiday cheer as Tom Akers presents "Somewhere South of the North Pole," a Christmas comedy sketch variety show. Mark your calendars for Friday, December 15th, at the Midland Golf Club, where this festive extravaganza promises to entertain audiences of all ages.

The event kicks off with a delightful social hour from 6 pm to 7 pm, offering guests the opportunity to indulge in delicious food and drinks available for purchase from the bar. As the clock strikes 7 pm, brace yourself for a memorable two-act show that's sure to spread the joy of the season.

"We wanted to create an evening that captures the essence of the holidays – laughter, heartwarming moments, and fantastic music. 'Somewhere South of the North Pole' brings together comedy sketches and musical performances to create a one-of-a-kind experience," says Tom Akers, the creative mind behind the show.

Adding to the festive spirit, the audience will be treated to sensational musical performances by Lewis Knudsen and The Nice List. These talented musicians will infuse the evening with melodies (and laughs) that will resonate long after the show concludes.

This PG-13 rated event welcomes individuals of all ages to join in the merriment. A suggested donation of $10 is encouraged, with all proceeds benefiting Crossroads Cultural Connections, a nonprofit organization committed to enhancing the local community socially, culturally, and economically through live music initiatives.

"By attending 'Somewhere South of the North Pole,' not only will you have an incredible evening, but you'll also contribute to a worthy cause. Your support will help Crossroads Cultural Connections continue their meaningful work in the community," adds Akers.

Don't miss this opportunity to dive into the holiday spirit with laughter, music, and giving back to the community. Join us at the Midland Golf Club on December 15th for an evening that promises to leave you full of joy and goodwill!

Event Details:

What: "Somewhere South of the North Pole" Christmas Comedy Sketch Variety Show

Where: Midland Golf Club, 3536 Midland Rd, Kewanee, IL

When: Friday, December 15th

6:00 pm to 7:00 pm: Social Hour

7:00 pm: Show Begins

Admission: Suggested donation of $10 (All proceeds benefit Crossroads Cultural Connections)

Age: PG-13 (Open to all ages)

2023 Lucia Nights Schedule

Friday December 8:

Hours are from 6 to 9 p.m. on December 8 and 9

• Soup and Chili Supper at the Bishop Hill Community United Methodist Church will begin at 4:00 p.m. until they run out. A free-will donation is appreciated to cover the meal cost.

• Christmas Tree Lighting at 6 p.m. in the village park, with the Galva High School Choir providing the music.

• Peoria Cooperative Academy Madrigal Singers will be performing at the Bishop Hill Methodist Church from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

• The VASA National Archives will have a closing reception for their exhibit, with storyteller Brian “Fox” Ellis sharing Swedish and Pioneer Christmas Stories from 6 to 8 p.m.

• Hammer and Pick will be playing music at the Steeple Building, starting at 6 p.m.

• At the Bishop Hill Fire Station, Barry Cloyd will be performing from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and Coffee Creek will be performing from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.

• Galva High School Choir will be caroling from building to building.

• Josh Christianson and Friends will be singing and leading Christmas Carols outside of J Goard Pottery from 6 to 9 p.m.

Saturday December 9:

• Soup and Chili Supper at the Bishop Hill Community United Methodist Church will begin at 4:00 p.m. until they run out. A free-will donation is appreciated to cover the meal cost.

• Horse drawn carriage rides at the Krans Kafe from 6 to 9 p.m. A carriage ride cost $5 per person. However, children under the age of 1 are free.

• Peoria Cooperative Academy Madrigal Singers will be performing at the Bishop Hill Methodist Church from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

• The VASA National Archives will have a closing reception for their exhibit, with storyteller Brian “Fox” Ellis sharing Swedish and Pioneer Christmas Stories from 6 to 8 p.m.

• Hammer and Pick will be playing music at the Steeple Building, starting at 6 p.m.

• At the Bishop Hill Fire Station, Barry Cloyd will be performing from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and Coffee Creek will be performing from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.

• Wethersfield High School Choir will be caroling from building to building.

• Josh Christianson and Friends will be singing and leading Christmas Carols outside of J Goard Pottery from 6 to 9 p.m.

• At the Colony School, there will be an Old-Fashioned Barn Dance, with Sangamo Stemwinders performing and Gail Hintze calling. Beginners are welcome and no partner is necessary.

Lucia Nights are sponsored by the Bishop Hill Arts Council, Bishop Hill Heritage Association, Bishop Hill State Historic Site, Bishop Hill Old Settlers’ Association. VASA National Archives, Bishop Hill Volunteer Fire Department, and numerous local businesses. Special thanks to all the volunteers who made this festival possible! This event is also partly funded by the Illinois Arts Council Agency, a state agency, Barbro Osher Pro Suecia Foundation, and American Rescue Plan Funds from Henry County, approved by the Henry County Board.

2023 Lucia Nights in Historic Bishop Hill

11-27-23
Bishop Hill, IL

Historic Bishop Hill invites you to join our 2023 Lucia Nights (Festival of Lights) celebration on Friday December 8 and Saturday December 9 from 6 to 9 p.m. This Swedish tradition is based on a legend of Saint Lucia, Queen of Light. During a famine in Sweden, on the longest and darkest night of the year, Lucia appeared wearing a long white robe and encircling her head was a crown of candles. Legend has it that Lucia appeared on a ship laden with food. When the ship was unloaded, both it and Lucia vanished. Girls in Sweden today wake their families on December 13th carrying a tray of Lucia buns while dressed in a white robe and wearing a crown of candles.

Lucia Nights begins in Bishop Hill with the Lighting of the Park Christmas tree at 6 p.m. on Friday, December 8. The public is invited to bring edible ornaments to hang on the tree. Throughout the evening, businesses and museums will have Lucia Girls to greet guests. Around the village, each building will have a single candle in each and every window, and sidewalks will also be illuminated by candles. Restaurants are open both evenings. Special Christmas gifts will be on sale.

On both evenings, Bishop Hill will be hosting a wide variety of free Christmas activities. At the Steeple Building Museum, Hammer and Pick will be playing a variety of Christmas and folk music from 6 to 9 p.m. The VASA National Archives will have a closing reception for their A Sampling of our Samling exhibit. Also at the Archives, storyteller Brian “Fox” Ellis will share a medley of Swedish and Pioneer Christmas stories and songs from 6 to 8 p.m. At the Bishop Hill Fire Station, Barry Cloyd will be performing a variety of music from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., with Coffee Creek performing from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. The Peoria Cooperative Academy Madrigal Singers will be singing at the Bishop Hill Methodist Church from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Both Friday and Saturday, the Bishop Hill Community United Methodist Church will host its annual Soup and Chili Supper, beginning at 4:00 p.m. A free-will donation is appreciated to cover the cost of the meal. In addition, the Galva High School Choir and Wethersfield High School Choir will be going from building-to-building singing Christmas carols. Finally, Josh Christianson and Friends will be singing and leading Christmas Carols outside of J Goard Pottery from 6 to 9 p.m.

On Saturday, December 9 only, at 7 p.m., there will be an Old Fashioned Barn Dance at the Colony School. The Sangamo Stemwinders will be performing. All dances taught and called by Gail Hintze. Beginners are welcome and no partner is necessary. Also, the Krans Kafe is hosting horse drawn carriage rides from 6 to 9 p.m. A carriage ride cost $5 per person. However, children under the age of 1 are free.

Lucia Nights is sponsored by the Bishop Hill Arts Council, Bishop Hill Heritage Association, Bishop Hill State Historic Site, VASA National Archives, Bishop Hill Old Settlers’ Association, Bishop Hill Volunteer Fire Department, and numerous local businesses. This event is also partly funded by the Illinois Arts Council Agency. Barbro Osher Pro Suecia Foundation, and American Rescue Plan Funds from Henry County, approved by the Henry County Board.

For more details, call 309-927-3899 or view www.visitbishophill.com.

Swedish Vocal Quartet Performing in Bishop Hill

John Taylor
john.r.taylor@gmail.com
(309) 299-4999

BISHOP HILL, Illinois—The Swedish vocal quartet, Kongero will perform a live concert Sunday, November 26th at Bishop Hill Creative Commons, located at 309 N. Bishop Hill St, Bishop Hill, IL. The family-friendly show will begin with a potluck dinner at 6PM, with music starting at 7PM, and is open to guests of all ages. A $20-30 donation is suggested.

Kongero is a highly esteemed, world touring Swedish Folk'appella group singing powerful, evocative, haunting music and consisting of the four female folk singers -- Lotta Andersson, Emma Björling, Sofia Hultqvist Kott, and Anna Wikénius. Kongero was formed in 2005 when the original members all attended a Nordic folk music conference. By chance, they started singing together and found that their voices and harmonies blended perfectly. Since then, they have performed at many of the major folk music scenes and festivals and at several a cappella and chamber music festivals as well as doing tours all over Europe, Asia and The Americas. They also do church concerts, school concerts, tours, perform at business events, and conduct well-received workshops in traditional Swedish vocal music and vocal harmonies.

Kongero’s repertoire consists of traditional and original songs and tunes arranged by the members. Kongero tells tales of life, with moving love songs, dramatic medieval ballads, witty ditties, and spirited dances. Their music is characterized by tight harmonies, inciting rhythms and the clarity of their beautiful voices. With confidence, technical skill, irresistible playfulness, and brilliant arrangements, they create a unique sound that brings the traditional music from the past and into the present. They call their genre Swedish Folk'appella.

In addition to the evening concert, Kongero will host a free workshop from 1:00pm to 2:30pm, at the 1855 Dairy Building located at 410 North Erickson St, Bishop Hill IL. Participants will learn Swedish folk and Christmas songs and may have an opportunity to sing along with the group at the evening performance. This workshop is presented by the Bishop Hill Heritage Association as part of Bishop Hill’s annual Julmarknad (Christmas Market). For more information about the workshop and Julmarknad activities, please call 309-927-3899 or email bhha@mymctc.net.

For more information please visit XRoadsCC.org.


Geneseo Chamber Announces Halloween Fun with Witches Weekend and Scarecrow Row

October 12, 2023
For more information contact:
Zack Sullivan, Executive Director
Geneseo Chamber of Commerce
309-944-2686

A pair of upcoming fun and free Halloween events are happening in Geneseo Illinois: Witches Weekend and Scarecrow Row. The fun kicks off with Witches Weekend on October 26-28. During Witches Weekend, shoppers and guests are invited into Geneseo businesses to celebrate the Halloween season and enter to win over $300 worth of prizes and Geneseo Chamber Gift Certificates that can be used at over 100 Geneseo-based businesses.

The popular Witches Night Out celebration will be on Thursday, October 26 from 4pm-7pm at participating Witches Weekend stores. Stop in to enter for prizes, dress up in a fun Halloween wardrobe, and enjoy Geneseo with friends. Participating locations can be found not only Downtown, but all over Geneseo.

Many stores will also have door prizes and great deals during this kickoff to Witches Weekend including UpLoved, Wildflower Vintage & Thrift, Raelyn’s Pub & Eatery, Pegasus Fine Gifts, Four Seasons, Geneseo Brewing Company, Village Florist and Gifts, Pumpkins & Baby Bugs - A Baby Boutique, MIVA, and more to be announced. The Witches Weekend event will run through Saturday, October 28th. This means you can shop throughout the weekend in order to get the best deals and keep entering to win! Witches Weekend winners will be drawn Monday, October 30th.

Then, on Saturday, join businesses and families in the Geneseo City Park to continue the Halloween spirit with Geneseo’s Scarecrow Row! If you’d like to make a scarecrow for display, stop by the Smith Studio and Gallery, located at 124 S. State St. in downtown Geneseo, and pick up your FREE wooden scarecrow starter frame and information sheets. Then, get busy! Get creative! Bring your finished scarecrow to the Geneseo City Park on Saturday, October 28th between 9:00 am -10:00 am where all the scarecrows will be exhibited on “Scarecrow Row.” EVERY scarecrow will receive a special ribbon, with Geneseo Chamber Gift certificate prizes being awarded to the top three Scarecrows on display.

The public will be invited to come to the City Park to view the scary, exciting and weird creations. From 10:00 am-12:00 pm candy and Halloween treats from Geneseo businesses will be distributed to children visiting Scarecrow Row. Families are encouraged to come to the park dressed in their Halloween costumes. A free Halloween themed photo booth will be set up at the Bandshell, providing a fabulous photo opportunity. Scarecrows will be on exhibit throughout this special Halloween Saturday until 4pm.

For more information, contact the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce at 309-944-2686.

Cambridge Methodist Fall Review Oct. 7 Features Area Crafters

By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current

The Fall Review at the Cambridge Methodist Church originated 33 years ago and continues to be the major fundraiser for the church.

This year’s Review is from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 7, at the Cambridge Church, 120 West Exchange St., and in the Community Hall, adjacent to the church.

For more information, call the church at 309-937-2018.

The event will feature a country breakfast, served from 7 to 9 a.m. in the church. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and carryout orders are available at 11:30 a.m. The lunch menu includes “Red Delicious” ham loaf, cheesy potatoes, almond green beans and dinner rolls. The ala carte luncheon menu will feature all plate lunch items in addition to chicken salad served on rye bread or croissant, potato soup, pumpkin pie, white chocolate raspberry cheesecake or turtle cake.

This year more than 30 crafters have registered to take part in the Review, including people from the Quad Cities and surrounding areas and from as far away as Ft. Myers, FL.

Committee members require original work only, no commercially produced items.

The Review also features frozen foods, bakery and gourmet shops.

Visitors to the gourmet shops will find an assortment of jams and jellies, fudge, relishes, pickles, mustards and mixes. New items are pickled green beans and jalapeno strawberry jelly.

Homemade cinnamon rolls, fruit-filled pies, cookies, and specialty breads including the popular Swedish Rye will be available in the bakery shop.

In the “Frozen Food Shop,” visitors will find the popular “Red Delicious” ham loaves, cheese tortellini soup, apple dumplings, lasagna for two, Swedish meatballs, and fruit pies.

Linda Denison, a member of the Review committee, said, “Members grow, pick and prepare items They hand craft jar toppers, test recipes, decorate the buildings and meet en masse to make frozen food products.”

The history of the Fall Review can be traced back to 1989 when the church held its first Review in the form of an all-church sponsored consignment craft show. The event was such a success that it became a tradition and grew into the church’s top money-making event. Las year’s Review raised about $20,000.

Denison said the purpose of the Fall Review “is to raise much needed money for mission and ministry priorities of our church. All profits from this year will be used for ministries within our church and community.”

“Our church mission statement is ‘Loving God, Loving Others, Serving Both.’ Whatever we profit from the Review, we use to support our church programs, as well as the grade school program ‘Caring Hearts’ that helps families in need, our local food pantry and to Back Pack Blessings program for Cambridge students who receive weekend food packages.”

“The Review not only is our major fundraiser, it has become a rewarding labor of love in serving others,” Denison said. “Many church members work all year to prepare for it. It’s a labor of love for the entire congregation.”

Linda Charlet, a member of the Fall Review Committee at the Cambridge Methodist Church, shows the frozen homemade fruit pies that will be offered for sale at the annual Fall Review on Oct. 7 at the church. The event will feature 10 varieties of fruit pies. All proceeds from the Fall Review are used for local missions.

Butch Patrick aka Eddie Munster From The Famous Munsters TV Show to Visit Geneseo Satuirday. August 12 For “Spook the Loop” Event!

Butch Patrick, who portrayed Eddie Munster in the popular Munsters TV Show, is coming to Geneseo on Saturday August 12! For one day only, Shoot the Loop is rebranding itself into “Spook The Loop”.

There will be a meet & greet opportunity with Butch, a Shoot the Loop event at the City Park, and Lynn Allen will perform at the Central Bank Pavilion in the evening, sponsored by Hanford Insurance Agency.

This is going to be a huge day in Geneseo. Save the date – Saturday August 12 in Geneseo, IL. Spook the Loop feat. Butch Patrick!

Spook the Loop is made possible thank to the efforts of Geneseo Shoot the Loop, the Geneseo Public Library District, and Sheilah Wigant-McGee Originals.

Check out these neat contests and classes related to “Spook the Loop!”