Call to Order

Brad called the meeting to order at 7:05pm, and led us in the Pledge of Allegiance

Roll Call -Lane Heatherwick

Lane called the roll. There were 7 directors, and 16 members and guests present.

Secretary's Report -Andy Rousonelos

Brad asked if everyone had received their minutes, and if there were any additions or corrections. There were several copies available. Ron made a motion to accept the minutes as published. Alan seconded that motion, and it was passed by all present.

Treasure's Report -Fred Lestina

In Fred’s absence, Brad read the treasurer’s report. We had income from dues of $325, donations of $210, concession income of $200, the garden tractor pull brought another $60, and the 50/50 raffle added $60. For expenses, we paid $785 for show directories, which we will get back as we sell them. We paid $64.80 to the Farmers Weekly Review, Jean received $322 for postage and office expenses, and we gave the Will County Sheriff Auxiliary $500 for their help with our annual tractor drive. Jerry Kinsella made a motion to accept the report as read, it was seconded by Russ, and passed by all present.

Old Business

Brad reported that the Dyersville toy show had great weather, so there was a good crowd in attendance.

The plan is to fill the corn crib Saturday, November 11. Lane has contacted Steve to let him know of this plan.

The 2025 Feature tractor was discussed next. John Cronin suggested that we consider Caterpillar ag equipment. Others came up with Massey Harris, and David Brown/David Bradley. The possibility of crawler tractors damaging the grass also came up, and it was decided that the crawlers have their own section assigned. Ron made a motion to use Cat, Massey and David Brown all as one feature. Dave Karl seconded his motion, and it was passed by all present.

The FFA kids “tractor pull” was brought up, but it needs more discussion.

Lane read a letter from Rich Lorenz’s family wishing to make a sizable donation to the Club. They said he always enjoyed being active with the club and wished us continued success. Many thanks go out to the family, Larry Lorenze, Rose Kleine, Jerry Lorenz, and Kathy Johnson.

New Business

Brad reported that the club was offered a Joliet Corn sheller to purchase. It is a small 4-hole, Joliet corn sheller in very good condition. The seller Douglas Bee thought it should be back in Will County. Ron, Brad, and Charlie drove to Maple Park to look it over and they decided that we should buy it, and Mr. Bee offered to deliver it after he was done with harvest. Lane suggested that it could be mounted on a small trailer and used at our show.

The club has been compiling an inventory of club assets, where they are stored, and assigned a value to each. Andy will input this list into the computer.

Jess reminded us that Manhattan is hosting a holiday light parade on December 2nd. Brian O’Sullivan volunteered to coordinate this.

Jess is also working to preserve the WCTA history. She received a box of old show books from Connie Schuler, which she is digitizing. The pins and plaques are included in this. Do we want to bring back the show books? Many expressed in favor.

Lane announced that June 8th will be the possible tractor ride.

Adjournment:

Pat made a motion to adjourn the meeting. It was seconded by Dave Smit and was passed by all present.

Meetings

December 14th Wilton Federated Church Hall 7 PM

January 14 WCTA Member Christmas Party Wilton Church Hall 1 PM

The Christmas Party is for Members and their friends and family only. For this even, we ask attendees to bring a dish to share based on the first letter of your last name: A-F salads, deviled eggs or rolls; G-M hot potatoes or stuffing; N-S vegetable side dishes; T-Z desserts. The Club will provide Pop, water, coffee, and table service. If you have questions or need to coordinate a silent auction donation, please contact Brad Eike 815-378-3674 or email WillCountyThresh@gmail.com Silent Auction donation item ideas: baked goods, gift cards, memorabilia, gift baskets, event tickets, crafts, private tours, unique items or experiences.

Upcoming Events

Mendota Toy Show Nov. 12th

Newark Toy Show Nov. 19th

Bloomington Toy Show Nov. 24 – 26th