October 9th, 2025
Download a PDF of the minutes here
Call to Order
Lane called the meeting to order at 7:05 pm, 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
Lane asked if everyone had received their minutes, and if there were any additions or corrections. Jerry made a motion to accept the minutes as published. Ron seconded that motion, and it was passed by all present.
Treasure's Report -Fred Lestina
Fred reported we had income including $500 to cover the cost of new plastic folding tables, and $300 from Steiner Tractor Parts to renew their banner on our website. Expenses included $275.89 for supplies for the fall picnic, and $4,000 for our rent on the Showground and Steve’s equipment. Ron made a motion to accept the report as read, it was seconded by Hank, and it was passed by all present.
Old Business
Lane ran the meeting in Brad’s absence and thanked everyone for accommodating our last-minute change in meeting location to the Wilton Township Building, as the church parking lot was being re-coated.
Andy announced that Jerry Haff passed away at 77, he could be seen on our tractor ride and many others in the area on his Minneapolis tractors.
Lane and Jay attended the Peotone Old Mill fest with the Fairbanks engine and burr mill. The Civil War reenactors were there, and there was a great write up in the paper.
Andy, Lane, Alan, and Chuck attended the Central Illinois Green Club plow day held at the Rodney and Joel Schwark farm near Herscher. The plow day had been postponed for a week due to ongoing health issues for Rodney. It rained off and on throughout the day, but never enough to stop the plows. There were 15 tractors, some with 2 or 3 operators trading off. Rodney also served JR’s chicken for lunch.
Chuck gave a review of the Big Rock Plowing Match, stating that the rain did not stop them either. There were 23 tractors running, and it was fun to watch the grandfathers teaching their grandsons the lost art of match plowing. Five Bee’s served a pork chop lunch.
Eric ran our sawmill at the Gaus plow day, and cut new beams for Lane to make another hayrack for use at the show.
It is time to split firewood for use at the shows, there are logs to split at Jerry’s, Lane’s, and Bill Davis’ place. Bob has our log splitter. A workday will be announced once everyone is done in the field.
New Business:
Lane reported that a Case CC Tractor was donated to the club by Carmine Napolitano. It has new tires all around but needs carburetor work. Jack S has it stored at his place.
Steve has 40 acres of corn for us to use to pick what we need to fill the corn crib. Once the field is opened up to pick, Ron will arrange a corn picking day.
Lane reminded everyone that our Christmas Party will be held on Sunday, January 11th at the Wilton Federated Church. It will be potluck again, with the food schedule announced at our November and December Meetings. We will need 2 turkeys and 2 hams donated and cooked.
The tentative date for our tractor drive is June 6, 2026. Please let Lane know if you have any suggestions for the destination.
Wade Satterlee made a donation to cover our new plastic folding tables, in memory of his parents who were longtime members, and his dad was a former president. Wade told how much his dad enjoyed the show, and the camaraderie of the group. Bob did a great job of announcing our parade for many years, and was instrumental in getting the Prairie Gold Rush Minneapolis-Moline national reunion held at our show one year at Dollingers. He also mentioned that shortly before his dads passing, he had mentioned that he felt that the group was in good hands, and has a good future ahead. Plaques will be made for the tables commemorating the Satterlee’s, and any donors towards tables may request a plaque for their donation.
Adjournment:
Mel made a motion to adjourn the meeting. It was seconded by Dave and was passed by all present.
Meetings:
November 13, December 11 Wilton Federated Church 7 PM
