The Rotary of Macomb meets Tuesdays at noon at the First Presbyterian Church.
December 2, 2025 President Seth Minter officially commenced the 21st meeting of the Rotary year at the Western Illinois Museum. The occasion featured a special program and guided tour of the museum was presented by Sue Scott, Executive Director of the museum. The invocation was delivered by Todd Rodeffer.
Attendance was reported by Steve Knowles: 25 members attended in person, which represented 47% of the club’s membership. Four guests were also present, Sue Scott, our speaker, December’s Junior Rotarians: Drew Watson and Addison Clow, and Rotary Exchange Student Thea Granheim from Norway— bringing total attendance to 29.
Six Rotarians contributed “Happy Money” in recognition of recent significant events.
President Seth informed members that there will be no meetings on December 23, 2025, and December 30, 2025, to allow everyone to enjoy the holidays. The upcoming meetings promise to be both entertaining and informative: on December 9, 2025, the MHS Madrigal Singers will perform, and on December 16, 2025, Anne Lepter and Patrick Downing from WIU will present a program about the Goldfarb Center for the Performing Arts. Members were also reminded of the Salvation Army bell-ringing events scheduled for December 11 and 13, 2025, with times to be announced. The Rotary Annual Scholastic Bowl is set for Saturday, January 10, 2026; further details will be provided. Also, President Seth read a thoughtful note from Debby Dallefeld regarding her Rotary membership.
Additionally, President Seth announced that the club will donate $500 each to eight major food banks in McDonough County. He emphasized the importance of supporting those in need, especially during the holiday season. The Community News Brief article on the Shoes for Kids program that was published Tuesday has already prompted donations for the Shoes for Kids program, and together with club contributions, approximately $1,500 has been raised to date.
Todd Lester then introduced the meeting’s guest speaker, Sue Scott.
Sue shared the history of the building housing the museum, noting its origins in a partnership among the City of Macomb, Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Museum in 2000.
There were renovations done which led to its opening in 2002. Through additional grants and community support, the building was acquired in 2019 and has recently undergone a $250,000 renovation, funded largely by donors, local businesses, and grants.
Increased community involvement has significantly boosted attendance.
Sue highlighted that these renovations reinforce the museum’s mission to connect people through history and demonstrate the value and function of preserving such buildings. She encouraged members to promote the museum within the community, as visiting the building and increased attendance at programs can generate enthusiasm and interest.
The meeting concluded with a guided tour by Sue, showcasing artifacts and farm equipment currently on display at the Western Illinois Museum. Attendees expressed appreciation for her expertise and the engaging historical insights she provided.
Interested in speaking at Rotary or becoming a member, contact Tom Stites at [email protected].
