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 11 directors, and 50 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. Ron seconded that motion, and it was passed by all present.

Treasure's Report -Fred Lestina

Fred reported we had income including a $400 in show banner sales, and $70 from show magnets, and $396 from raffle tickets sales at the Peotone auction. Expenses included $2,078 for the 6 month premium on our insurance. Ron made a motion to accept the report as read, it was seconded by Jean, and it was passed by all present.

Old Business

Brad was pleased to return this month, healing up well with his new knee. He also reported that John Cronin is doing well and appreciates visitors anytime they are in Joliet. He is also praying for good weather during the show.

We had lots of help for the Manhattan 4th of July parade, and handed out lots of flyers and 3x5 cards. Many people in the crowd were asking for them. The weather was great and there was lots of people in the crowd to watch. The Beecher 4th of July parade did not fare as well, it started to downpour as soon as the parade got going. Thanks to all of our volunteers for both parades!

Brad reported that the calendars have been printed, and the showbook will be printed in time for the show.

Stewart Spreading has stepped up to sponsor the tractor pull sled now that Ozinga has discontinued sponsorship of it.

Eric reported that the Sawmill was set up at Steve’s and will only require a few small adjustments before showtime. If this placement works well for the mill, the new sawmill shed will be constructed there.

The TSC Tractor Discovery Day at the new Monee store went well. Eugene came from the New Lenox Store to help out. There was lots of help, and good tractor representation. Many tickets were sold and it was thought to be good PR in the area. Thanks to everyone who helped out!

Lane announced that the 2027 Tractor Drive will be held on June 5, 2027. We will also be donating $500 to the Will County Sherrif’s Auxiliary, in recognition of their help with the ride again.

The Office Trailer and Dolly Madison trailer have been moved to Steve’s and will be put into place soon. The Office has been pressure washed and looks great, thanks to Bob, Russ, and Ron.

Thank you to Bob, Russ, and Jim for getting all of the road signs up for the show.

New Business:

Brad reminded everyone that showtime us upon us, and it is time to get busy. Hiller’s Shed has been unloaded so setup can begin. Lunch will be provided for all of the helpers during show setup as usual.

There will be a 12’x18’ flag on loan for us to fly at the show, we are working on getting a crane company to come and fly it so it can be seen from miles around. There are many smaller flags that will be placed around the showgrounds as well.

Binding wheat will be held on Saturday, July 11. Please come out and help if you can, there are plenty of hayracks on loan and 2 racks have front racks on them as well for easy loading. Thanks to Mike, Bob, and Lane for their contributions to the bundle wagons.

Show teardown will be held Sunday July 19 after the show closes, and Monday July 20. Any remaining teardown will be announced from there. Last year nearly everything was finished by late afternoon Monday.

The Civil War Reenactors are on track to return to their usual spot and will lead off the parade again on Saturday and Sunday.

The 4-H food tent will be cooking the Thursday appreciation dinner again, and we are trying to not over or under cook amounts of food this year. Lou and Cathy are spearheading the dinner again. Desserts are always welcome!

Sandy reported that all 7 food vendors are signed and ready, and she was able to find a new sweet corn vendor who will bring in fresh sweet corn daily.

Kim reported that she still had some spaces left for flea market and craft vendors who want to come in off the street with their wares.

Chuck will be the Parade Czar this year, getting everyone lined up and organized.

Jerry has arranged for morning flag raising ceremonies at the show, with Lincolnway JROTC, Manteno & Manhattan American Legions coming to conduct them.

Sandy also reminded everyone that Friday and Saturday there will be hot breakfast in the food tent at 7:30 from the Teardrop restaurant.

Lastly, everyone was reminded that all their hard work all year leads up to this week. We are on track for a successful show thanks to our dedicated group of volunteers.

Adjournment:

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

Meetings:

August 13, October 8, November 12, December 10 Wilton Federated Church 7 PM

Member Picnic - September 13 Charlie & Jeannie Kestel Farm 1 PM