February 12th, 2025
Download a PDF of the minutes here
Call to Order
Brad called the meeting to order at 7:03pm, and led us in the Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call -Lane Heatherwick
Lane called the roll. There were 10 directors, and 36 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. Pat made a motion to accept the minutes as published. Hank seconded that motion, and it was passed by all present.
Treasure's Report -Fred Lestina
Fred reported we had income including $4088 member donations, $838 from our Christmas Party silent auction, and $125 in dues. Expenses included $125 for our ad in Engineers and Engines Magazine, and $200 for a Lightpost Banner to advertise our group year-round in Manhattan. Dave made a motion to accept the report as read, it was seconded by Ron, and it was passed by all present.
Old Business
Brad was pleased to report that John Cronin has returned home and seems to be doing well. Jim Baskerville passed away at 82, he enjoyed our show for many years. Monroe is continuing his Lymphoma treatments.
Our joint tour with the CIGC to Fair Oaks was cancelled due to poor weather conditions, and we hope to choose an alternate date later. There is still lots of interest in seeing their education center. Lane also planned a tour to Midwest Aero Restorations in Danville to see the restoration process of the P-51 Bomber Aircrafts on Saturday, February 28.
Dan Lowe spoke on the Tractors for a Cure Cash Bash, being held on March 8. This 501C-3 organization has raised over $600000 towards the American Cancer Association and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. We have sponsored them at $250 for the last 2 years, and Ray made a motion to donate $300 this year. It was seconded by Alan and was passed by all present.
Lane offered an update on the Tractor Drive. He, Jim, and Andy have a preliminary map routed out, leaving from the Spiess farm and weaving to Granger Enterprises in Manteno for a water and cookie break. From there, we will travel several other roads outside Manteno before going into town for a hot lunch at the Manteno American Legion Hall. Lunch will be at your own expense, with choices from a limited menu to speed up the cooking process, and the admission price will be adjusted accordingly. Inquiries are being made about a short tour in Manteno before or after lunch. A final break on the return will be held at Dick Moran’s farm, before returning to Steve’s. The route is approximately 38 miles long, and the ride will be held rain or shine on June 6.
The group welcomed Mike O’Meara from Frankfort as a new member. He has attended our show and is interested in getting involved.
The new tables have been purchased, with 8 being the straight tables and 2 folding for easy handling at the toy shows. The plaques to commemorate our donors will be applied, and Brad brought them in for viewing.
A card was received from the Peotone Historical Society thanking us for our continued support as they fundraise to restore the Peotone Mill.
New Business:
A meeting was held for the Barnyard Tractor Pulls, with minimal rule changes, primarily the adjustment from 1970 and older to 1973 and older.
The Lincoln Toy Show will be held in Romeoville on February 22, it primarily caters to Matchbox and other car toy brands, but we will be selling Raffle tickets and advertising our show there.
The Serena Toy Show will be held on March 1, Sublette on March 14 and 15, and Seneca will be on March 22. Please let Brad know if you would like to help out.
The Manhattan Irish Fest parade will be on Sunday March 8, Bob and Charlie will head this up as usual. Please let them know if you can help pass out fliers or candy.
Andy needs to update the club asset sheet, which covers all our equipment over $500. Please let him know if you have anything stored for the club so he may record it, and at the recommendation of his personal insurance agent, pictures showing the condition of each item are beneficial.
Sandy reported that we will have Pizza 4-U, the 4-H food tent, Papa’s Mini Donuts, and the Taco Truck returning to the food court. She has a new vendor, Black Walnut BBQ coming, and they have offered to donate $1 to the club for every sale they make at the show. She is also working with the Creamery to have an ice cream tent again.
The corn crib already has paint peeling on it, and we are exploring new options to help it last a lifetime. One option is new galvanized Behlen Crib Siding, which is Amish Made. We will be looking into all options and pricing before we make a decision.
Dave Karl mentioned that the Prairie State railroad club may be interested in having us over for s steam-up event at the Plowmen’s Park in Big Rock when the weather breaks. He will bring more details as plans are made.
Adjournment:
Jay made a motion to adjourn the meeting. It was seconded by Chuck and was passed by all present.
Meetings:
February 12, March 12, April 9 Wilton Federated Church 7 PM
