July 11th, 2024
Download a PDF of the minutes here
Call to Order
Brad called the meeting to order at 7:06pm, and led us in the Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call -Lane Heatherwick
Lane called the roll. There were 11 directors, and 52 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. Larry 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
Fred reported we had income including a $2600 sponsorship towards Corn Shelling and Music from Earthrise Energy, a $700 sponsorship from Preban Farm Drainage, $112 from Pedal tractor Raffle Tickets at the Sandwich Engine Show & $147 from tickets at the Tractor Supply Day event. Expenses included $475 towards advertising, $1600 in club expenses, and $698.10 in show expenses. Jean made a motion to accept the report as read, it was seconded by Ron, and it was passed by all present.
Old Business
Brad reported that Seward “Jack” Corson died at 96 years old. He and his son Mark ran our sawmill with John Ross for more than 25 years.
It was reported that Bob, Brian, and John all have horse drawn implements to display at the show this year.
Kyle Lipowski announced that the June 29 event at Bengston’s farm was a success, and they wanted to host another event in the fall.
Brad gave a review of the Sandwich Engine Show, saying that it rained on Friday and the show seems to be struggling. They don’t have nearly as many exhibits or members as they once did. He had help from Russ, Chuck, and Brian with selling raffle tickets.
Charlie said the Manhattan Independence Day parade went well, and lots of folks in the crowd said they were already planning on coming to the show. For the next parade, more walkers with young legs would be greatly appreciated.
It was reported that the flea market would start set-up on Sunday and should be full.
Andy attended the Covered Bridge tractor tour in Rockville, IN and reported that despite more than an inch of rain on Saturday, they had a turnout of 170 tractors between the two days and covered over 100 miles. Several WCTA members attended the ride.
Bob reported that the Tractor Supply Event was a success as usual with a great turnout of exhibitors and attendees. Eugene is looking forward to us coming back next year.
Andy reported that the Woods Bros Threshing machine should be up and running for the show, he replaced a damaged tailings elevator tube with a new one from Bob Homerding and everything turns smoothly by hand. It is greased up and already hauled to the showground.
The club’s John Deere model 60 from Ray Jordan is all ready for the show, Charlie moved the fenders out and Bob made nice steps for it. It will be hooked to the people mover and used for the kids driving a tractor event.
Ron reported that the crib roof has been replaced, and they did away with the troublesome doors on top and instead will remove sheets of tin to fill the crib. Thank you to Ron, Russ, Jay, Mel, Lane, & Bill Davis for their work.
New Business
Jess gave her summary, the showbook is looking great. T-shirts will cost $20 for a pocket t, $15 for unisex, and $10 for calendars. T-shirts will come on Tuesday before the show. She is looking for help with photography during the show, especially on Saturday. She also added that the Peotone Old Mill fest will be held September 15 from 11-4. Brad was on WJOL and she has posted the recording of the interview to our Facebook and YouTube pages, and he would be on WITY’s “Down on the Farm” segment. Both interviews seem to give us great traction.
Show setup is scheduled to start on Saturday, and continue Monday-Wednesday, Sunday setup would only be if it is necessary. Lane has arranged for lunch to be provided each day of setup. He reminded everyone that more hands make for less work. He also mentioned that it was time to give our donation to the Sherriff’s Auxiliary for their help with the tractor drive. Larry made a motion to make a donation, it was seconded by EJ and passed by all present.
Andy reported that the club wobble wheel roller was getting its finishing touches put on at Anzelc’s, and would be getting lettered on its way to the show. He reported that the club was able to profit $550 after paying the bills for it, and it would be ready for the show.
Bob Homerding reported that he went into AHW John Deere to sell them an advertising banner at the show and talked to them about donating a pedal tractor for next year’s raffle. Terry picked up the pedal tractor, and it will be ready for the Will County Fair.
Adjournment:
Eric made a motion to adjourn the meeting. It was seconded by Larry and was passed by all present.
Meetings
August 1 Wilton Federated Church Hall 7 PM
September 8 Picnic Charlie & Jean Kestel Farm 1 PM
Upcoming Events
Sycamore Steam Show Sycamore, IL August 8-11
Will County Fair Peotone, IL August 21-25
Central States Threshermen Pontiac, IL August 29-September 2
Rock River Thresheree Edgerton, WI August 30-September 2
