September 13, 2026
Download a PDF of the minutes here
Call to Order
Brad called the meeting to order at 1:07pm, and led us in the Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call -Lane Heatherwick
Lane called the roll. There were 11 directors, and 59 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. Jerry made a motion to accept the minutes as published. Bud seconded that motion, and it was passed by all present.
Treasure's Report -Fred Lestina
Fred reported we had income including $553 from raffle ticket sales at the Will County Fair, and $244 from merchandise sales at the fair. Expenses included $715 for 800 save the date cards and 3000 pedal tractor raffle tickets, and $551.16 in appreciation dinner costs. David made a motion to accept the report as read, it was seconded by Jean, and it was passed by all present.
Old Business
After an excellent potluck lunch, Brad thanked everyone for their contributions to the annual picnic.
Brad reported that John Cronin is doing well but is still not getting out much. He appreciates visitors anytime they are in Joliet. Charlie reported that Roger is not doing well and has a broken arm.
Despite foul weather, we still put on one of our best shows. The attendance was hurt by the weather, wildfire smoke, and the heat; but we had lots of great comments from all of the attendees and are on track for another great show in 2027.
Sycamore’s show was also affected by rain and had lower attendance as a result. They sent over a thank you card in appreciation of the use of our duck races for their kids’ area. They also included pictures of it in action and of the sign they had thanking us and directing their visitors to our website.
Jerry gave a report on our booth at the Will County Fair. This is the first event for our 2027 show season, and it gives us a great start. We sold $244 in merchandise, $553 in raffle tickets, and received $787 in tips from running the golf carts to the parking lot. He thanked Bob, Russ, Lane, Steve, Chuck, Jim, Ron, Jeff, Jay, Glenn, Russ, Mike, Charlie, Jack, Bob, Alan, Ray, Ralph, Jimmy, and Sharon for their help.
Central States Threshermen’s had slower attendance on Thursday and Friday due to the heat but had a good crowd the rest of the weekend.
Brad reported that he attended the Rock River Thresheree for the first time, and thought it was a great show with lots of things to see that many shows in our area do not have like their Rock and Dirt area which is a big sandbox for old construction equipment to play in.
Brad attended Bill Burnham’s M&W Power Expo show, where he demonstrated all of his M&W equipped tractors. There was corn picking, shelling, and plowing. Max Armstrong was also in attendance as usual and complimented our Website and Facebook pages.
Andy, Lane, and Chuck attended the CIGC plow day at the Schwark farm in Herscher. This was the first plow day held since Rodney’s passing, and his son Joel said it was rewarding to hold it again in his dad’s memory.
Andy is still working on updating our asset list for insurance purposes. Anyone who is storing items for the club should speak to him so that he can make an appointment to document what is stored at different locations.
New Business:
Alan Heatherwick has made the decision not to seek re-election and retire from the board, Al has served as our President, and a director for over 20 years. A standing ovation was given in recognition of his many years of dedication to the club. Kyle Lipowski was nominated to run for his slot, and with no other nominations made Jerry made a motion to accept Kyle to fill the slot on the board. Ron seconded the motion, and it was passed by all present. A motion was made by Chuck to retain the same officers for the next year. It was seconded by Charlie and was passed by all present.
Brad thanked Whitmore Ace in Plainfield for the Mums that were donated for the centerpieces and raffled off as door prizes. He also thanked Charlie and Jeannie and their helpers for setting up and providing us with a nice place for the picnic to be held again.
Lane wanted to thank all the directors for all their extra efforts that go on behind the scenes.
Jess reported that we have received many reviews on Google from the show this year, most of which were 5-star reviews. We received lots of great comments, and praise for the show. She also reminded everyone that the group is made up of volunteers, and how great it is to see everyone working well together for the good of the group.
Mike O’Mera returned home to Ireland for a threshing show his father is involved in. The event is a fundraiser for the church and has a showcasing of antique machinery at work and food vendors. He bought pictures of our show to share with them.
Adjournment:
Jess made a motion to adjourn the meeting. It was seconded by Dennis and was passed by all present.
Meetings:
October 8, November 12, December 10 Wilton Federated Church 7 PM
