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Kathy Apple

Feb 27

JCMGA Board Retreat Meeting Minutes – January 2025

By Beet 2025 03 March

Jackson County Master Gardener Association

Board Retreat Meeting Minutes

January 24, 2025

 

Board Members Present:

Barbara Low, President, Winter Dreams Summer Gardens Co-Chair, Member Services WG Chair

Marcie Katz, Past President, Co-Chair Spring Garden Fair WG

Linda Millus, President-Elect

Keltie Nelson, Treasurer, Co-Chair Marketing & Technology WG

Regula Pepi, Assistant Treasurer

Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

Colet Allen, OMGA Representative & Winter Dreams Summer Gardens Co-Chair

Teresa Jarrett, Co-Archivist

Carrie Holmes-Stanton, Co-Archivist

Rebecca Cohn, Member-at-Large

Kaleen Reilly, Member-at-Large

Joanne Daane, Member-at-Large

Mary Schrouder, Member-at-Large

Jory Kaplan, Member-at-Large

Michael Hornbeek, Community Outreach WG Chair

Lucy Pylkki, Spring Garden Fair WG Co-Chair & Marketing & Technology Co-Chair

Jane Moyer, Fundraising WG Chair

Janine Salvatti, Gardens WG Chair

Grace Florjancic, OSU MG Program Coordinator

Absent:

Ann Ackles, Membership Secretary

Guests:

Regina Boykins

Call to Order:  President Barbara Low called the Board Retreat meeting to order at 9:08am.

Retreat Agenda:  President Low facilitated discussion on the following agenda items:

  1. Dropbox & Working Groups for 2025: JCMGA member Regina Boykins, who is the Dropbox Administrator/owner, led a discussion and answered questions on how to access and utilize Dropbox.  President Low emphasized the importance of Working Groups uploading their meeting minutes and other resource documents for archiving and future use.
  2. JCMGA Vision for the Future Regarding Building Construction: President Low asked the Board to discuss what their vision is for the future related to buildings needed by the association.  A possible vision was to “Establish a learning facility dedicated to sustainable horticultural education for Master Gardeners and the community”.  Board Member comments included:
  3. Don’t limit the vision. Think out of the box.
  4. Conduct grant research now in preparation for fundraising.
  5. Utilize the Oregon Construction Contractors Board for resources.
  6. Get answers to all legal questions.
  7. Dream big, make a wish list for buildings, include IT, kitchen, bathroom.
  8. Have a community garden on SOREC property.
  9. 2024 Accomplishments: President Low was complimented on creating the outline of accomplishments by the association in 2024.  The Board brainstormed various ways this document could be used including:
  10. Publishing on the JCMGA website and Facebook.
  11. Article in the Garden Beet.
  12. Send to OMGA.
  13. Make it colorful and fun; put it every place we are.
  14. Highlight the number of volunteer hours.
  15. Send to local mayors and share with community garden groups and schools.
  16. Include in all JCMGA presentations.
  17. Share with the new Master Gardener class.
  18. Add visuals specific to accomplishments and charts.

 

  1. Strategic Plan for 2025 including JCMGA Vision for 3 & 5 Years: President Low walked the Board through each of the 2025 strategic goals and objectives for clarification, common understanding and agreement.  OSU MG Program Coordinator Grace Florjancic provided updates for future planning including a once-a-month presence at the local grower’s market, the need for more volunteers, leadership training, and increasing the number of students for the annual Master Gardener class.
  2. Parking Lot Issues: President Low asked members to keep a list of issues to be addressed later.   They included:
  3. Develop a list of legal questions to be answered regarding the vision of building a classroom (Ex. Do we own the building? Can we rent it out & collect a fee? How do we ensure sole use by JCMGA?)
  4. Develop a JCMGA Glossary of terms.
  5. Create a building rendering.
  6. Utilized the SOREC Farm Manager for some gardening related tasks. Think about hiring a landscape maintenance company for some tasks related to the demonstration gardens.
  7. Schedule another art in the garden event.

Announcements:

  1. The Master Gardener Class of 2025 lunch will be Wednesday, January 29, 2025 from Noon to 1:00pm in the Auditorium.

Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 11:30am.

Next Meeting:

  1. The next regular Board meeting will be held February 14, 2025 from 9:00am to 11:30am.

Respectfully Submitted by Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

Feb 27

JCMGA Board Meeting Minutes – January 2025

By Beet 2025 03 March

Jackson County Master Gardener Association

Board Meeting Minutes

January 10, 2025

Board Members Present:

Barbara Low, President, Winter Dreams Summer Gardens Co-Chair, Member Services WG Chair

Marcie Katz, Past President, Co-Chair Spring Garden Fair WG

Linda Millus, President-Elect

Keltie Nelson, Treasurer, Co-Chair Marketing & Technology WG

Regula Pepi, Assistant Treasurer

Ann Ackles, Membership Secretary

Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

Colet Allen, OMGA Representative & Winter Dreams Summer Gardens Co-Chair

Teresa Jarrett, Co-Archivist

Carrie Holmes-Stanton, Co-Archivist

Rebecca Cohn, Member-at-Large

Kaleen Reilly, Member-at-Large

Joanne Daane, Member-at-Large

Mary Schrouder, Member-at-Large

Jory Kaplan, Member-at-Large

Michael Hornbeek, Community Outreach WG Chair

Lucy Pylkki, Spring Garden Fair WG Co-Chair & Marketing & Technology Co-Chair

Jane Moyer, Fundraising WG Chair

Janine Salvatti, Gardens WG Chair

Grace Florjancic, OSU MG Program Coordinator

Guests:

Ronnie Budge

Ann Kinkley, OMGA Newsletter Editor

Andrew Norwood, Development Director, OSU Foundation

Call to Order:  President Barbara Low called the Board meeting to order at 9:00am.

JCMGA Board Oath:  President Low facilitated the collective Board oath which reads, “I (name), as a member of the Jackson County Master Gardeners Association Board of Directors, promise to do my best to learn, practice, and teach the art and science of gardening in the Rogue Valley, and beyond.”

Additions to the Agenda:  Members requested the following items be added to the agenda: Education speaker for Illinois Valley Garden Club request and call for Spring Garden Fair volunteers.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to add additional items to the agenda.  Motion passed.

Approval of the Consent Agenda:   All filed, written reports under the Consent Agenda were reviewed by members of the Board.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to accept the Consent Agenda as presented.  Motion passed.

Approval of the Agenda:

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the agenda as revised. Motion passed.

Approval of the Board Meeting Minutes from December 13, 2024:

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the December 13, 2024 Board Meeting Minutes as written.  Motion passed.

Finance Report:  Keltie Nelson Treasurer presented the financial statements for December 2024 and responded to questions from the Board.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the financial statements for December 2024.  Motion passed.

MG Program Coordinator Report:  OSU MG Program Coordinator Grace Florjancic provided an update for 2025 community education classes, Seed to Supper program, the Plant Clinic, the Cultivating Companions program, and changes to the SOREC grounds including placement of the new scientist housing.  Grace asked the Board to help brainstorm ideas for increasing advertisement for the new 2025 Master Gardener Training Program as registration is low for this time of the year.

OMGA Representative Update:  Colet Allen, OMGA Representative requested possible speakers for an education request from the Illinois Valley Garden Club on the topic of winter gardening tasks.

President’s Report:   President Barbara Low shared the following information with the Board:

  1. President Low reported on the monthly meeting with MG Program Coordinator Grace Florjancic and Farm Manager Jake Hoyman. A new location has been selected for the vegetable garden and an identified tripping hazard will be fixed.
  2. There are no new nominations for life membership at this time.
  3. The brown archive filing cabinets will remain in place. Other archive materials have been consolidated.
  4. Conversation is still underway with SOREC Director Alex Levin regarding a possible half time employee.
  5. There is a new sign-in policy at SOREC. If staffing the Plant Clinic, members must sign in.  The kitchen is now under lock and key.
  6. Regina Boykins has recommended some changes to the Garden Guides. The Board discussed pulling a new ad hoc committee together to do a cover-to-cover review and update of the Garden Guide in preparation for additional publishing needed at the end of this year. Kaleen Reilly volunteered for the committee.
  7. President Low reminded all Board Members that they must be current JCMGA members in order to be on the Board.
  8. President Low was complimented on her compilation of JCMGA accomplishments document. The Board brainstormed how the association might use this information in the future.

Membership Secretary Report:   Membership Secretary Ann Ackles reported that 89 members have renewed membership to date with a few in process.  Out of 14 life memberships, 4 have renewed.  Ann reminded the Board that volunteers for the Plant Clinic and the Practicum need to be currently certified.

Discussion & Business:

  1. Andrew Norwood, Director of Development from the OSU Foundation attended the meeting to present the work of his area and assist the Board with fundraising strategy ideas. Norwood is working toward the goal of assisting the creation of endowments for all extension county programs.
  2. President Low led a discussion on access to Board of Director reports in Dropbox. Currently, members and the public can access these reports.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to limit access to Board of Director reports only to JCMGA members.  

  1. Treasurer Nelson presented the annual liability insurance policy to the Board. It was suggested that Treasurer Nelson meet with the insurance agent to review what coverage is absolutely needed at this time.
  2. President Low led a discussion on possible agenda items for the Board’s winter retreat meeting scheduled for January 24, 2025. Items include discussion of Dropbox and Working Groups, JCMGA vision for the future including construction needs, review of the strategic plan for 2025, and a five-year strategic plan.
  3. President Low requested a Bylaws Committee be formed to review the Board oath, bylaws specific to Voting by Proxy and Membership Secretary duties, and an update to Policy 1.5 Document Archive, Information, and Retention. Kathy Apple volunteered to chair the committee.  Ann Ackles, Jane Moyer, Mary Schrouder also volunteered to be on the committee.
  4. President Low asked for three additional Board Members to serve on the 2025 Executive Committee. Colet Allen, Kaleen Reilly, and Jane Moyer volunteered.  The Executive Committee per the bylaws also includes the President, President-Elect, Past President, Recording Secretary, and Treasurer.
  5. President Low announced plans for providing lunch for the 2025 Master Gardener class on their first day which will be January 29, 2025.
  6. Treasurer Keltie Nelson presented the 2025 JCMGA budget for discussion and approval.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the proposed 2025 budget.  Motion passed.

  1. Spring Garden Fair Chairs Marcie Katz and Lucy Pylkki asked for volunteers to assist with planning and implementation of the fair. There will be a need for a large contingency from the membership.  The first planning meeting will be scheduled soon.

Announcements:

  1. The Community Outreach Working Group is distributing the Cosmic Coir donations.
  2. The Medford Street Fair will be held the last weekend in May.
  3. The Awards Committee chaired by the President-Elect will need to be created at the February 14, 2025 Board meeting.

Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 11:00am.

Next Meeting:

  1. The JCMGA Board Winter Retreat will be held January 24, 2025 from 9:00am to 11:30am.
  2. The next regular Board meeting will be held February 14, 2025 from 9:00am to 11:30am.

Respectfully Submitted by Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

Jan 31

JCMGA December 2024 Board Minutes

By Beet 2025 02 February

Board Members Present:

Barbara Low, President, Co-Chair, Winter Dreams Summer Gardens WG, Co-Chair Marketing &      Technology WG, Chair Member Services WG

Marcie Katz, Past President, Co-Chair Spring Garden Fair WG

Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

Ann Ackles, Membership Secretary

Colet Allen, OMGA Representative & Co-Chair, Winter Dreams Summer Gardens WG

Lucy Pylkki, Member-at-Large & Co-Chair, Spring Garden Fair WG

Janine Salvatti, Chair, Gardens WG

Sandy Hammond, Member-at-Large

Regula Pepi, Assistant Treasurer

Pam Hillers, Archivist

Cassandra Toews, Member-at-Large

Ronnie Budge, Chair, Community Outreach WG

Kaleen Reilly, Member-at-Large

Rebecca Cohn, Member-at-Large

Grace Florjancic, OSU MG Program Coordinator

Board Members Absent:

Jane Moyer, Chair, Fundraising WG

Michael Hornbeek, Student Representative

Keltie Nelson, Treasurer, Co-Chair Marketing & Technology WG

Guests:

Linda Millus, 2025 President-Elect

Teresa Jarrett, 2025 Co-Archivist

Mary Schrouder, 2025 Member-at-Large

Joanne Daane, 2025 Member-at-Large

Jory Kaplan, 2025 Member-at-Large

Linda Holder

Sherri Morgan

Taurie Rubaloff, SOREC Administrative Office Manager

Call to Order:  President Barbara Low called the Board meeting to order at 9:04am.

Additions to the Agenda:  Members requested the following items be added to the agenda: Winter Dreams Summer Gardens update, proposed Governing Documents Committee for 2025, the introduction of Taurie Rubaloff, the new SOREC Administrative Office Manager and archives/Dropbox announcement from Linda Holder.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to add additional items to the agenda.  Motion passed.

Approval of the Consent Agenda:   All filed, written reports under the Consent Agenda were reviewed with the exception of Gardens Working Group report and the Spring Garden Fair report which were not available.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to accept the Consent Agenda as amended.  Motion passed.

Approval of the Agenda:

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the agenda as revised. Motion passed.

Approval of the Board Meeting Minutes from November 8, 2024:  President Low offered a correction on page four.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the November 8, 2024 Board Meeting Minutes as amended.  Motion passed.

Finance Report:  President Low presented the financial statements for November 2024 and the proposed 2025 annual budget which will be voted on at the January 10, 2025 Board meeting for approval.  President Low reminded members that all reimbursement checks need to be cashed by the end of this month otherwise they will come out of the 2025 budget.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the financial statements for November 2024.  Motion passed.

MG Program Coordinator Report:  OSU MG Program Coordinator Grace Florjancic provided overall year end data for the Board’s information.  In 2024 there were 9,300 volunteer hours, 1,010 continuing education hours, 1082 pounds of food produced and donated to Access, and 39 graduates of the Master Gardener training program.

OMGA Representative Update:  Colet Allen, OMGA Representative reported on the completion of 2024 OMGA goals and the development of organizational goals for 2025.

President’s Report:   President Barbara Low shared the following information with the Board:

  1. President Low held the monthly meeting with MG Program Coordinator Grace Florjancic. It was noted that the open area where the Creepy Old House stood is being cleared of vegetation with posts being installed to prevent traffic entering the property.  The yard carts, wheelbarrows, and the potting area will be relocated in January.

  2. President Low reviewed the proposed Board meeting dates for 2025. She asked the Board to move the July 11, 2025 Board meeting to July 10th so Board Members can attend the annual Joy of Gardening education event in Corvallis on July 11-12, 2024.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to move the July 2025 Board meeting to July 10, 2025.  Motion passed.

Membership Secretary Report:   Membership Secretary Ann Ackles reported that two membership renewal reminders went out in both the Garden Beet and via MailChimp’s.  As of this date, 45 members have renewed with 8 renewals still to be processed.

Discussion & Business:

  1. Pam Hillers, Archivist, and Linda Holder, past Archivist, presented the legal and historical rationale regarding archiving for JCMGA and the importance of adherence to standards of archiving. Moving forward, it was discussed that the record retention policy for JCMGA will need to be reviewed and updated.

  2. President Low facilitated a discussion of potential agenda items for the Board’s winter retreat scheduled for January 24, 2025. Potential items included Dropbox access, review of our vision to build a classroom and greenhouse, the 2025 organizational goals, and review of the strategic plan.

  3. Ronnie Budge, Chair for the Community Outreach Working Group presented a proposed policy for providing community garden grants for Board discussion and approval.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the proposed policy for community garden grants.  Motion passed.

  1. Member-at-Large, Sandy Hammond presented a request for a price discount for the purchase of 31 garden guides from the Kiwanis Club in Grants Pass that would then be donated in the community.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to sell 31 garden guides to the Grants pass Kiwanis Club at $9.00 each.  Motion passed.

  1. Grace Florjancic, Program Coordinator introduced Taurie Rubaloff, who is the new SOREC Administrative Office Manager. The Board welcomed Taurie to her new position.

  2. President Low announced that Keltie Nelson and Lucy Pylkki will be Co-Chairs for the Marketing & Technology Working Group in 2025.

  3. President Low asked the Board to consider volunteering for a governing documents committee to review a potential revision to the bylaws and review of the records retention policy. The committee would be convened in 2025.

  4. Colet Allen, Co-Chair for Winter Dreams Summer Gardens (WDSG) Working Group announced that 30 landscapers attended the event, 21 landscapers received continuing education credit including five who utilized the recorded sessions. In total, 115 people attended the 2024 WDSG including presenters.  Colet thanked everyone who helped with this event.

     5.Linda Holder, Sandy Hammond, Pam Hillers, and Ronnie Budge, esteemed       leaders who will be leaving the Board at the end of 2024, all expressed their           appreciation and gratitude to the organization. The Board in turn expressed         their gratitude for their many contributions and leadership on behalf of             JCMGA.

Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 10:35am.

Next Meeting:

  1. The new Board meeting will be held January 10, 2025 from 9:00am to 11:30am.

  2. The JCMGA Board Winter Retreat will be held January 24, 2025 from 9:00am to 11:30am.

Respectfully Submitted by Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

Jan 31

JCMGA New Board Orientation Meeting Minutes – December 6, 2025

By Beet 2025 02 February

Current Board Members Present:

Barbara Low, President

Marcie Katz, Past President

Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

Ann Ackles, Membership Secretary

Colet Allen, OMGA Representative

Lucy Pylkki, Member-at-Large

Janine Salvatti, Chair, Gardens WG

Jane Moyer, Chair, Fundraising WG

Michael Hornbeek, Student Representative

Sandy Hammond, Member-at-Large

Regula Pepi, Assistant Treasurer

Rebecca Cohn, Member-at-Large

Kaleen Reilly, Member-at-Large

2025 Board Members Present:

Linda Millus, President-Elect

Teresa Jarrett, Co-Archivist

Mary Schrouder, Member-at-Large

2024 & 2025 Board Members Absent:

Keltie Nelson, Treasurer, Co-Chair Marketing & Technology WG

Carrie Holmes-Staton, Co-Archivist

Joanne Daane, Member-at-Large

Jory Kaplan, Member-at-Large

Call to Order:  President Barbara Low called the orientation meeting to order at 9:10am and opened the meeting with a welcome to new Board Members and individual member introductions.

Per JCMGA Policy 2.3 Board Orientation, President Low led a review and discussion on the following topics:

  1. JCMGA Organizational Chart with Working Groups

  2. Venn Diagram describing the working relationship between JCMGA and OSU.

  3. A description of Working Groups, how they function and their role on the Board of Directors.

  4. A description of committees.

  5. A review of JCMGA governing documents including the Articles of Association, Bylaws, Policy & Procedure manual.

  6. A review of duties and expectations of Board Members.

  7. Kathy Apple provided a review of the legal and fiduciary responsibilities of nonprofit Board Members.

  8. A review of the 2025 Board calendar.

  9. An overview of Board meeting procedures, meeting reports, minutes, and archives.

  10. A review of Dropbox and its function and purpose for the organization.

  11. A review of Robert’s Rules of Order.

  12. A review of Oregon Master Gardener Association.

  13. A review of the 2024 Strategic Plan and draft 3-year and 5-year organizational goals currently under discussion.

A review of the 2025 budget, reimbursement procedures and reading financial reports was tabled until a later date.

President Low reviewed the annual conflict of interest statement and OSU liability form which each Board Member signed.

Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 11:25am.

Next Meeting:

The next Board meeting will be held December 13, 2024 from 9:00am to 11:30am.

Respectfully Submitted by Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

Dec 31

JCMGA Board Meeting Minutes – November 8, 2024

By Beet 2025 01 January

Board Members Present:

Barbara Low, President, Co-Chair, Winter Dreams Summer Gardens WG, Co-Chair Marketing &      Technology WG, Chair Member Services WG

Marcie Katz, Past President, Co-Chair Spring Garden Fair WG

Keltie Nelson, Treasurer, Co-Chair Marketing & Technology WG

Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

Colet Allen, OMGA Representative & Co-Chair, Winter Dreams Summer Gardens WG

Lucy Pylkki, Member-at-Large & Co-Chair, Spring Garden Fair WG

Janine Salvatti, Chair, Gardens WG

Jane Moyer, Chair, Fundraising WG

Michael Hornbeek, Student Representative

Sandy Hammond, Member-at-Large

Regula Pepi, Assistant Treasurer

Pam Hillers, Archivist

Cassandra Toews, Member-at-Large

Ronnie Budge, Chair, Community Outreach WG

Kaleen Reilly, Member-at-Large

Ann Ackles, Membership Secretary

Grace Florjancic, OSU MG Program Coordinator

Board Members Absent:

Rebecca Cohn, Member-at-Large

Guests:

Lynn Kunstman

Kristina LeFever

Patricia Burnham

Arti Kirch

 

Call to Order:  President Barbara Low called the Board meeting to order at 9:00am.

Additions to the Agenda:  There were no additions to the agenda.

Approval of the Consent Agenda:   All filed, written reports under the Consent Agenda were accepted.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to accept the Consent Agenda as amended.  Motion passed.

Approval of the Agenda:

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the agenda as presented. Motion passed.

Approval of the Board Meeting Minutes from October 11, 2024:

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the October 11, 2024 Board Meeting Minutes as written.  Motion passed.

Finance Report:  Treasurer Keltie Nelson presented the October financial statements, the proposed fiscal year 2025 budget, and the current status of Certificates of Deposit (CD’s) for the Board’s review and discussion.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the financial statements for October 2024.  Motion passed.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to roll two CD’s that are maturing soon for another six months.  Motion passed.

In review of the proposed fiscal year 2025 budget, the Board requested an increase in outreach expenditure for JCMGA Booths.

MG Program Coordinator Report:  OSU MG Program Coordinator Grace Florjancic provided an update on community education classes, the Master Gardener Training program, the Plant Clinic, the Seed to Supper program, and the proposed Junior Master Gardener program.  President Low reported on the Practicum program noting the seed team, the curriculum team, the native plants team, and the greenhouse maintenance team have been meeting in preparation for the upcoming Master Gardener education program.

OMGA Representative Update:  Colet Allen, OMGA Representative provided an update on current OMGA business.   The 2024 Joy of Gardening conference was very successful so the OMGA Board is dedicating some of that revenue to lower the 2025 association membership fee from $7.00 to $5.00 per member. Colet noted that the current statewide Master Gardener coordinator is working on a way for Josephine County Master Gardeners to recertify for next year.  At the past OMGA Board meeting, the OSU Director of Development, Andrew Norwood informed OMGA that he would like to reach out to all county chapters to support associations and assist, for example, with fundraising ideas and strategies.  On March 5, 2025, the OMGA Advocacy Group is meeting with state representatives at the state legislature.

President’s Report:   President Barbara Low shared the following information with the Board:

  1. President Low reported that the monthly meeting with MG Program Coordinator Grace Florjancic and Farm Manager Jake Hoyman was cancelled this month as Grace and Jake were both out of town.
  2. The Creepy Old House, the tool shed, and Peggy’s propagation greenhouse have all been removed from the SOREC property.
  3. SOREC has a new office manager who is requesting assistance with reorganizing the office space.
  4. The new Board orientation will be held on December 6th. All Board Members are required to attend in person.
  5. Michael Hornbeek has agreed to be the new Community Outreach Working Group Chair for 2025.
  6. The Marketing & Technology Working Group will still need a new chair for 2025.

Membership Secretary Report:   Membership Secretary Ann Ackles reported that the new online membership renewals have gone out.  Ann also expressed gratitude for support from the Board.

Discussion & Business:

  1. Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with JCMGA & SOREC: President Low presented the revised MOU for the joint purchase and use of the SOREC utility trailer for the Board’s review and discussion.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to accept the revised MOU based on the Board’s discussion and input. Motion passed.

  1. Practicum Design Ad Hoc Committee Update: Jane Moyer reported that not much has happened while waiting for the Creepy Old House to be demolished and the driveway expanded per SOREC plans.  Jane will be meeting with a contractor next week for input.  The Board discussed the need to have the design created by the committee drafted by a qualified drafting service.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to obtain drafted building plans based on the Board’s vision for a new tool shed, classroom, lathe house, and greenhouse with a cost up to $3,000.  Motion passed.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to authorize $8,000 from donations and $4,500 from savings for building a tool shed after design plans have been drafted.  Motion passed.

  1. Kristina LeFever, President/Secretary of the Pollinator Project Rogue Valley, along with Treasurer Patricia Burnham and Vice President Arti Kirch, shared with the Board their process and funding for employing full time and part time employees. The Board is exploring possible part time employment for support of the Native Plant Nursery and demonstration gardens.
  2. JCMGA 2025 Tellers Report: Nominations Chair, Marcie Katz reported on the results of the 2025 Board of Directors election.   The 2025 Board of Directors include:

Barbara Low, President

Linda Millus, President-Elect

Marcie Katz, Past President

Keltie Nelson, Treasurer

Regula Pepi, Assistant Treasurer

Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

Colet Allen, OMGA Representative

Teresa Jarrett, Co-Archivist

Carrie Holmes-Stanton, Co-Archivist

Kaleen Reilly, Member-at-Large

Joanne Daane, Member-at-Large

Rebecca Cohn, Member-at-Large

Mary Schrouder, Member-at-Large

Jory Kaplan, Member-at-Large

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to accept the election results for the 2025 Board of Directors.   Motion passed.

Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 11:25am.

Next Meeting:

  1. The new Board of Directors orientation will be held December 6, 2024 from 9:00am to 11:30am.
  2. The next Board meeting will be held December 13, 2024 from 9:00am to 11:30am.
Dec 01

JCMGA Board Minutes – October 11 2024

By Beet 2024 12 December

Board Members Present:

Barbara Low, President, Co-Chair, Winter Dreams Summer Gardens WG, Co-Chair Marketing & Technology WG, Chair Member Services WG

Marcie Katz, Past President, Co-Chair Spring Garden Fair WG

Keltie Nelson, Treasurer, Co-Chair Marketing & Technology WG

Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

Colet Allen, OMGA Representative & Co-Chair, Winter Dreams Summer Gardens WG

Lucy Pylkki, Member-at-Large & Co-Chair, Spring Garden Fair WG

Rebecca Cohn, Member-at-Large

Janine Salvatti, Chair, Gardens WG

Jane Moyer, Chair, Fundraising WG

Michael Hornbeek, Student Representative

Sandy Hammond, Member-at-Large

Regula Pepi, Assistant Treasurer

Pam Hillers, Archivist

Cassandra Toews, Member-at-Large

Ronnie Budge, Chair, Community Outreach WG

Kaleen Reilly, Member-at-Large

Ann Ackles, Membership Secretary

Grace Florjancic, OSU MG Program Coordinator

Guests:

Lynn Kunstman

Annette Carter

Call to Order:  President Barbara Low called the Board meeting to order at 9:35am.

Additions to the Agenda:  A request was made to add the minutes of the October 4, 2024 Board Retreat to the agenda.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the addition to the agenda.  Motion passed.

Approval of the Consent Agenda:   A request was made to pull the OMGA Report from the agenda.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to accept the Consent Agenda as amended.  Motion passed.

Approval of the Agenda:

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the agenda as amended. Motion passed.

Approval of the Board Meeting Minutes from September 13, 2024:

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the September 13, 2024 Board Meeting Minutes as written.  Motion passed.

Approval of the Board Retreat Meeting Minutes from October 4, 2024:

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the October 4, 2024 Board Retreat Meeting Minutes as written.  Motion passed.

OMGA Report:  Colet Allen, OMGA Representative responded to a question regarding a memorandum of agreement that was reported by the OMGA Executive Committee.   Colet will request further information and report back to the Board.

Finance Report:  Treasurer Keltie Nelson presented the September financial statements for Board review and discussion.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the financial statements for September 2024.  Motion passed.

MG Program Coordinator Report:  OSU MG Program Coordinator Grace Florjancic reported that the Creepy Old House is now scheduled for demolition over a two-week period beginning October 21, 2024.   The Jackson County Commissioner decision to not allow Josephine County Master Gardener’s to volunteer in Jackson County was shared with the Board.  Grace reported that the “Plant-a-Row” project this year donated 815 pounds of produce to Access.

President’s Report:   President Barbara Low shared the following information with the Board:

  1. President Low reported that the monthly meeting with MG Program Coordinator Grace Florjancic and Farm Manager Jake Hoyman continues to go well, facilitating communication and a productive partnership.
  2. The Winter Dreams Summer Gardens symposium now has 60 registrations including 13 landscapers. The Board discussed additional advertising to boost registrations.
  3. President Low reported on the Board’s Fall retreat and thought the discussion went well.

Membership Secretary Report:   Membership Secretary Ann Ackles reported that the goal for this coming renewal is to get every member to sign all forms online including input on individual member interest areas.  Election ballots for the 2025 Board will go out in a couple of weeks and will include the new graduates.

Discussion:

  1. Alec Levine, Director of SOREC met with the Board to propose a written Memorandum of Agreement for use of the SOREC “dump trailer” recently purchased by SOREC. Dr. Levine responded to questions from the Board.  The Board will review and discuss the agreement at a later date.
  2. Proposal to Preorder New Gardening Shirts: Member-at-Large Kaleen Reilly proposed a preorder, online process for new gardening shirts for the incoming Master Gardener class.  Kaleen would like to pursue this process and will present more details for the Board’s discussion at a later date.
  3. Proposal for a Part-time Paid Position for the Native Plant Nursery: Lynn Kunstman asked the Board to consider a possible part-time paid position to help care for the Native Plant Nursery specifically from May through November.  The Board discussed various ways to do this.  The Board requested more information about options to inform further discussion.
  4. Possibility of Paid Labor in the Demonstration Gardens: Janine Salvatti also presented the need to have paid labor to supplement volunteer labor in the demonstration gardens.  Janine is gathering related information from statewide Master Gardener staff.
  5. Community Outreach Working Group and Marketing & Technology Working Group for 2025: President Low reported that both of these working groups will need new chairs for fiscal year 2025.   The Board discussed having new Member-at-Large positions fill these chair positions.
  6. Practicum Design Ad Hoc Committee Update: Jane Moyer shared with the Board that the contractor who the Board was most interested in has separated from his business partner and formed a new construction company.  Jane stated that a next step might be to just build a tool shed for approximately $12,500 and eliminate the current pod rental for storing tools.

Business:

  1. Nomination Committee: Nomination Committee Chair Marcie Katz presented the following 2025 Board of Directors Slate of Candidates to the Board:

President- Barbara Low

President Elect- Linda Millus

Past President- Marcie Katz (incumbent)

Recording Secretary- Kathy Apple (incumbent)

Membership Secretary- Ann Ackles (incumbent)

Treasurer- Keltie Nelson (incumbent)

Assistant Treasurer- Regula Pepi (incumbent)

OMGA Representative- Colet Allen (incumbent)

Archivist and Co- Archivist- (Vote for 2)

Carrie Holmes

Susan Hoehn

Teresa Jarrett

Members at Large- (Vote for 5)

Joanne Daane

Connie Lyssand

Tami Cisneros

Jory Kaplan

Mary Schrouder

Cathy Millbank

Rebecca Cohn

Kaleen Reilly

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to accept the 2025 Board of Directors Slate of Candidates.  Motion passed.

  1. Approval of the Native Plant Nursery Logo: Lynn Kunstman presented the proposed logo for the Native Plant Nursery.  Use of the logo would also include reference to JCMGA and OSU.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the new logo for the Native Plant Nursery.   Motion passed.

  1. Additional Gardening Shirts for Graduation: Kaleen Reilly proposed purchasing additional gardening shirts in the V-Neck, purple shade for graduation.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve $220.00 for the purchase of additional gardening shirts.  Motion passed.

Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 11:40am.

Next Meeting:

  1. The next Board meeting will be held November 8, 2024 from 9:00am to 11:30am.

Respectfully Submitted by Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

 

Oct 31

JCMGA Fall Board Retreat Meeting Minutes October 4, 2024

By Beet 2024 11 November

Board Members Present (In-Person or Via Zoom):

Barbara Low, President, Winter Dreams Summer Gardens Co-Chair

Marcie Katz, Past President, Spring Garden Fair WG Co-Chair

Regula Pepi, Assistant Treasurer

Ann Ackles, Membership Secretary

Pam Hillers, Archivist

Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

Rebecca Cohn, Member-at-Large

Lucy Pylkki, Member-at-Large & Spring Garden Fair WG Co-Chair

Cassandra Toews, Member-at-Large

Jane Moyer, Fundraising WG Chair

Janine Salvatti, Gardens WG Chair

Sandy Hammond, Member-at-Large

Kaleen Reilly, Member-at-Large

Board Members Absent:

Ronnie Budge, Community Outreach WG Chair

Colet Allen, OMGA Representative & Winter Dreams Summer Gardens Co-Chair

Keltie Nelson, Treasurer

Michael Hornbeek, Student Representative

Grace Florjancic, OSU MG Program Coordinator

Call to Order:  The retreat was called to order at 9:33am by President Barbara Low.

Agenda:  President Low introduced the agenda for the retreat which included:

  1. Review and Discuss the JCMGA 2024 Strategic Plan
  2. JCMGA 2025 Board Nominations Update
  3. Practicum Design Ad Hoc Committee Update
  4. Brainstorm Goals for Three-year and Five-year Plan

Review & Discuss the JCMGA 2024 Strategic Plan:  President Low led the Board through a review and discussion of the four strategic goals for 2024.  Attached is an updated plan based on the Board’s discussion.  The Board clarified their understanding of goals, discussed objective measurements including attendance, member survey feedback, and revenue generation.  The issue of potential paid labor was discussed as a possible need for the near future.  The association is clearly becoming more visible in the community with the increased community outreach activities achieved this year.  It was noted that efforts such as the Honey & Mead outreach participation, the OSU Foundation Student scholarship, the new member continuing education scholarship, and the Fall Festival Plant Sale need to be added to the strategic plan.

JCMGA 2025 Board Nominations Update:   Marcie Katz, Chair of the Nominations Committee provided the Board with an update on the 2025 slate of candidates.   All positions now have members willing to run for the Board.  A final slate will be presented to the Board at the October 11, 2024 for approval of the ballot.

Practicum Design Ad Hoc Committee Update:  Jane Moyer, Chair of the Ad Hoc Committee provided a brief update to the Board.  The Creepy Old House is now scheduled for demolition the first of the new year.  The Board’s previous questions for the potential contractor have been sent however no feedback has been received to date.

Brainstorm Goals for Three-year and Five-year Plan:  President Low led a brainstorming session on possible goals for the next three years and the next five years.

The JCMGA three-year plan might include:

  • Growers and Farmers Markets – once a month
  • Include a “Busy Homeowners Garden” (Chaos Garden)
  • Leadership Training
    • More Board Training including Working Groups
    • Only have In-Person Board Orientation Training
  • Encourage all SOREC programs to meet with us for monthly/quarterly meetings
  • Encourage SOREC Programs to come together publicly
  • Networking with other groups
    • potential volunteers
    • getting out into the community
  • Practicum classroom, lathe house, and tool shed built
    • Business sponsors
  • Expanding our matrix to collect hardcore data to make better decisions

The JCMGA five-year plan might include:

  • Build new Greenhouse #1

Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 11:30am

Next Meeting:    Regular Board meeting, Friday, October 11, 2024 from 9:00am to 11:30am.

Respectfully Submitted by Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

 

Oct 31

JCMGA Board Meeting Minutes September 13, 2024

By Beet 2024 11 November

Board Members Present:

Barbara Low, President, Co-Chair, Winter Dreams Summer Gardens WG, Co-Chair Marketing &      Technology WG, Chair Member Services WG

Marcie Katz, Past President, Co-Chair Spring Garden Fair WG

Keltie Nelson, Treasurer, Co-Chair Marketing & Technology WG

Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

Colet Allen, OMGA Representative & Co-Chair, Winter Dreams Summer Gardens WG

Lucy Pylkki, Member-at-Large & Co-Chair, Spring Garden Fair WG

Rebecca Cohn, Member-at-Large

Janine Salvatti, Chair, Gardens WG

Jane Moyer, Chair, Fundraising WG

Michael Hornbeek, Student Representative

Sandy Hammond, Member-at-Large

Regula Pepi, Assistant Treasurer

Pam Hillers, Archivist

Cassandra Toews, Member-at-Large

Ronnie Budge, Chair, Community Outreach WG

Kaleen Reilly, Member-at-Large

Board Members Absent:

Ann Ackles, Membership Secretary

Grace Florjancic, OSU MG Program Coordinator

Guests:

Lynn Kunstman

John Miles

Call to Order:  President Barbara Low called the Board meeting to order at 9:30am.

Additions to the Agenda:  President Low added formation of this year’s Budget Committee to the agenda.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the addition to the agenda.  Motion passed.

Approval of the Consent Agenda:

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to accept the Consent Agenda as presented.  Motion passed.

Approval of the Agenda:

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the agenda as amended. Motion passed.

Approval of the Board Meeting Minutes from August 9, 2024:

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the August 9, 2024 Board Meeting Minutes as written.  Motion passed.

Finance Report:  Treasurer Keltie Nelson presented the latest financial statements for Board review.  She noted recent approved expenses, that were not budgeted for, have seen placed in “projects” in the financials in order to keep track of them.

Budget Committee:  President Low asked for volunteers for this year’s Budget Committee.  Preparing next year’s fiscal budget begins in October.  Keltie Nelson as Treasurer will chair the committee along with Jane Moyer, Regula Pepi, Lucy Pylkki, and Barbara Low.

MG Program Coordinator Report:  OSU MG Program Coordinator Grace Florjancic was unable to attend.  President Low referred Board Members to Grace’s written report in DropBox.

Josephine County Master Gardener Update:  John Miles was a former member of the Josephine County Master Gardener Association and is now a member of Jackson County Master Gardener Association.  John was invited to give the Board an update on the status of Josephine County.  A September 19, 2024 County Commissioners meeting will include discussion of what next steps might look like regarding the now closed extension center programs.  There is a recall election of one of the Commissioners and the other two Commissioners are up for reelection in November.

President’s Report:   President Barbara Low shared the following information with the Board:

  1. President Low reported that during the monthly meeting with MG Program Coordinator Grace Florjancic, it was noted that SOREC Director Alex Levin believes that use of the new utility trailer falls under a previously signed Memorandum of Understanding between SOREC and JCMGA and that a fee would be charged to JCMGA for use of the trailer. The Board questioned its previously decision to help pay for the new utility trailer if this is the case.  More research and discussion are needed on this issue.
  2. A website professional consultant was hired to assess and update the security and other issues on the JCMGA website.
  3. President Low participated in an OSU Level-Up Series on “Giving It Away: Growing Produce You Can Take to the Food Bank” on July 9,   She talked about our program here which to date has given 314 pounds of produce to Access.
  4. The DropBox training was held on September 11, The recording of the session will be linked on the JCMGA website.
  5. The Board’s Fall Retreat will be held October 4, 2024 from 9:30am to 11:30am. Possible topics include review of the Practicum classroom building design, strategic plan, building membership, a possible three-year strategic plan, and the vacant President-Elect position.

Membership Secretary Report:   Membership Secretary Ann Ackles was unable to attend today.   President Low reported that 17 Josephine County Master Gardeners have become members of our association.

Discussion:

  1. Member-at-Large Kaleen Reilly presented the sample T-shirt with the Board approved design. She asked the Board to reconsider the tag line underneath the design.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the proposed wording “Friends of JCMGA™” under the design.  Motion passed.

  1. Practicum Design Ad Hoc Committee Update: Jane Moyer presented a revised bid from Pacific Breeze Construction with a contract to begin initial work totaling $20,300.  The Board raised several questions concerning the contract, a request to itemize the $20,300, the need to talk first with SOREC Director Alex Levin, and whether the contract needs review and approval by the county attorney.  New member John Miles offered suggestions and said he would review the information from Pacific Breeze Construction and provide further input all based on his professional background in construction.
  2. Nomination Committee: Chair Marcie Katz updated the Board on building a slate of candidates for the 2025 Board.  Some nominees have come from the MailChimp that went out to the membership.  The Committee called members in the directory and secured three nominees for the archivist position, and more than five nominees for member-at-large positions.   The Committee has not secured a President-Elect nominee as yet.  The Board briefly discussed the concept of co-presidents.

Business:

  1. Approval of Revised “Assignment of Non-Exclusive Rights” Document. President Low presented the revision based on the Board’s previous discussion and responded to questions from the Board.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the revised document “Assignment of Non-Exclusive Rights”.  Motion passed.

Announcements:

  1. Fall Festival Update: Lucy Pylkki and Marcie Katz, Co-Chairs for the Fall Festival provided an update to the Board.   Of seventeen vendors who were approached, only four responded.  Marcie suggested that next year this event simply be a Native Plant sale and not a festival.
  2. Honey & Mead Festival: This festival is scheduled for September 21, 2024 and is still in need of a few volunteers.

Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 11:30am.

Next Meeting:

  1. The next Board Retreat is scheduled for October 4, 2024 from 9:30am to 11:30am
  2. The next Board meeting will be held October 11, 2024 from 9:00am to 11:30am.

Respectfully Submitted by Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

Sep 30

JCMGA Board Meeting Minutes – August 9, 2024

By Beet 2024 10 October

Jackson County Master Gardener Association

Board Meeting Minutes

August 9, 2024

 

Board Members Present:

Barbara Low, President, Co-Chair, Winter Dreams Summer Gardens WG, Co-Chair Marketing &      Technology WG, Chair Member Services WG

Marcie Katz, Past President, Co-Chair Spring Garden Fair WG

Keltie Nelson, Treasurer, Co-Chair Marketing & Technology WG

Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

Ann Ackles, Membership Secretary

Colet Allen, OMGA Representative & Co-Chair, Winter Dreams Summer Gardens WG

Lucy Pylkki, Member-at-Large & Co-Chair, Spring Garden Fair WG

Rebecca Cohn, Member-at-Large

Janine Salvatti, Chair, Gardens WG

Jane Moyer, Chair, Fundraising WG

Michael Hornbeek, Student Representative

Zoom Technology Failure Therefore the Following Board Members Were Unable to Attend:

Sandy Hammond, Member-at-Large

Rob MacWhorter, President Elect

Regula Pepi, Assistant Treasurer

Pam Hillers, Archivist

Cassandra Toews, Member-at-Large

Ronnie Budge, Chair, Community Outreach WG

Kaleen Reilly, Member-at-Large

Grace Florjancic, OSU MG Program Coordinator

Guests:

Alice Ingraham

Kendyl Berkowitz

 

Call to Order:  President Barbara Low called the Board meeting to order at 9:40am.

Additions to the Agenda:  A request was made to add discussion on the plants donated by the Josephine Master Gardener Association.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the addition to the agenda.  Motion passed.

Approval of the Consent Agenda:

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to accept the Consent Agenda as presented.  Motion passed.

Approval of the Agenda:

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the agenda as amended. Motion passed.

Approval of the Board Meeting Minutes from July 11, 2024:

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the July 11, 2024 Board Meeting Minutes as written.  Motion passed.

Finance Report:  Treasurer Keltie Nelson responded to questions from the Board regarding the financial statements for July 2024.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to accept the July 2024 financial statements.  Motion passed.

MG Program Coordinator Report:  On behalf of OSU MG Program Coordinator Grace Florjancic, President Low reported that the welcome luncheon for members of the Josephine Master Gardener Association went well with several members expressing interest in volunteering in various ways with Jackson County.  The Cultivating Companions grant implementation continues to go well with positive feedback.

President’s Report:   President Barbara Low shared the following information with the Board:

  1. President Low reported that the monthly meeting with MG Program Coordinator Grace Florjancic and Farm Manager Jake Hoyman covered discussion of the trailer agreement, demolition of the Creepy Old House now set for mid-August, and plans to widen the SOREC entry driveway to three lanes.
  2. A tour of updates to the JCMGA website was tabled however President Low noted that the Fall Festival & Winter Dreams Summer Gardens (WDSG) pages have been updated and registration for WDSG begins Monday, August 12, 2024.
  3. President Low also noted that the website needs serious updating to its security and structure.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to authorize Treasurer Keltie Nelson to contract with a professional website consultant to assess and make recommendations regarding the JCMGA website.  Motion passed.

  1. The 2024 Class Graduation date has been changed to November 9, 2024 due to a scheduling conflict with the previous date.
  2. The JCMGA Orchard Demonstration Garden will be taken out due to the location of the planned SOREC building for students. The Board discussed possibly taking scions from the orchard, moving the trees to a different location, donating the trees, or simply letting them go.
  3. President Low attended the OMGA Joy of Gardening annual education conference noting that the conference was well planned and had 230 attendees. She encouraged members to attend next year.
  4. Dropbox training in the auditorium will be on a Wednesday at 5:30pm with possible dates being August 22nd, August 28th, and September 18th. President Low will coordinate the final date with Regina Boykins.

Membership Secretary Report:   Membership Secretary Ann Ackles contacted two past JCMGA members that had recently rejoined.  One member reported that she had not received the renewal notice.  It was suggested that renewal flyers be posted around the demonstration gardens to help remind members to renew.   Membership Secretary Ackles provided JCMGA membership directories to attendees at the welcome luncheon for members of the Josephine County Master Gardeners.  Ann has set a goal of 100%-member participation in next year’s renewal and completion of the interest form.

Josephine County Master Gardener Association:  Jane Moyer reported on the effort to collect equipment, materials, and supplies at the request of the Josephine County Master Gardener Association.   A complete inventory will be documented.   In regards to the donated plants, proceeds from the sale of these plants will go to the general operating fund of Jackson County.  Members of Josephine County who would like to join Jackson County will have their membership fee waived for this year.  If Oregon State University charges members of Josephine County a fee for joining Jackson County, the Board will consider covering this cost.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to store the equipment, materials, and supplies obtained from the Josephine County Master Gardener Association and return all if the association reorganizes within three years.

Motion passed.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to refund the cost of the rental truck ($248.30) to obtain the materials from the Josephine County Master Gardener Association to Kathy Rogers. 

Motion passed.

Discussion:

  1. Practicum Design Ad Hoc Committee Update: Jane Moyer presented three bids received for construction of the classroom, tool shed, and lathe house.  The three bids were 1) Shed Guys – $58,123 (no permits, no electrical, no concrete, no plumbing, etc.); 2) Pacific Breeze Construction – $207,800; and 3) Dovetail Design & Construction – $240,900.   The Board discussed the three bids and also funding ideas.   It was suggested that the membership be informed of the project.  Janine Salvatti offered to write a monthly article regarding the demolition of the Creepy Old House and the proposal to build a new classroom, tool shed, and lathe house.
  2. President Low presented a draft Winter Dreams Summer Gardens video release form that would allow JCMGA to use the recorded education videos from the symposium in other venues. Language changes were discussed.  A revised draft will be presented to the Board at the next meeting.
  3. President Low shared with the Board that President-Elect Rob MacWhorter needs to resign his position on the Board. The Board discussed the need to fill both the President and President-Elect positions for the 2025 Board election.  The Nominations Committee will meet soon to address the issue.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to accept the resignation from Rob MacWhorter as President-Elect.  Motion passed.

Business:

  1. Master Gardener Clothing Fundraiser: JCMGA member Alice Ingraham shared the proposed design for the printing on the donated t-shirts.  The Board discussed ideas of what should be printed on the shirts as well.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the clothing design with “Master Gardener” printed below the design.  Motion passed.

Announcements:

  1. Fall Festival Update: Lucy Pylkki, Co-Chair for the Fall Festival reported that the $400 fee for use of SOREC grounds has been approved.  Vendors can now apply online for the festival.
  2. Honey & Mead Festival – Tabled until the next Board meeting.
  3. JCMGA Board Fall Retreat – Tabled until the next Board meeting.

Presentation:   President Barbara Low presented the State Growing & Belonging Award to Kendyl Berkowitz for her work in securing the grant to construct pathways in the Lavender Garden for disability access and the Cultivating Companions grant program.

Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 11:30am.

Next Meeting:

  1. The next Board meeting will be held September 13, 2024 from 9:00am to 11:30am.

Respectfully Submitted by Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

Aug 31

JCMGA Board July 11, 2024 Minutes

By Beet 2024 09 September

Jackson County Master Gardener Association

Board Meeting Minutes

July 11, 2024

 

Board Members Present (In-Person or Via Zoom):

Barbara Low, President, Co-Chair, Winter Dreams Summer Gardens WG, Co-Chair Marketing &   Technology WG, Chair Member Services WG

Marcie Katz, Past President, Co-Chair Spring Garden Fair WG

Rob MacWhorter, President Elect

Keltie Nelson, Treasurer, Co-Chair Marketing & Technology WG

Regula Pepi, Assistant Treasurer

Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

Ann Ackles, Membership Secretary

Pam Hillers, Archivist

Colet Allen, OMGA Representative & Co-Chair, Winter Dreams Summer Gardens WG

Lucy Pylkki, Member-at-Large & Co-Chair, Spring Garden Fair WG

Rebecca Cohn, Member-at-Large

Cassandra Toews, Member-at-Large

Ronnie Budge, Chair, Community Outreach WG

Janine Salvatti, Chair, Gardens WG

Jane Moyer, Chair, Fundraising WG

Michael Hornbeek, Student Representative

Kaleen Reilly, Member-at-Large

Grace Florjancic, OSU MG Program Coordinator

Board Members Absent:

Sandy Hammond, Member-at-Large

Guests:

Alice Ingraham

Call to Order:  President Barbara Low called the Board meeting to order at 9:30am.

Additions to the Agenda:  A request was made to add discussion of the budget for the 2024 Fall Festival.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the addition to the agenda.  Motion passed.

Approval of the Consent Agenda:   President Low noted that the Design Ad Hoc Committee’s name has been changed to Practicum Design Ad Hoc Committee.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to accept the Consent Agenda as presented.  Motion passed.

Approval of the Agenda:

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the agenda as amended. Motion passed.

Approval of the Annual & Regular Board Minutes from June 14, 2024:

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the Annual & Regular Board Minutes as written.  Motion passed.

Finance Report:  Treasurer Keltie Nelson responded to questions from the Board regarding the various bank accounts held by JCMGA.  It was noted that JCMGA must have a plant sales license since the association sells plants to the general public.  Past President Marcie Katz and Member-at-Large Lucy Pylkki are planning the 2024 Fall Festival and requested a budget from the Board.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve one thousand dollars for the Fall Festival budget from expenses saved in the current budget.  Motion passed.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to accept the June financial statements.  Motion passed.

MG Program Coordinator Report:  OSU MG Program Coordinator Grace Florjancic reported that since there is no funding for the Josephine County Master Gardener program, Master Gardeners from Josephine County would like to participate in various activities with JCMGA.   A welcome potluck for Josephine County Master Gardeners will be held on August 4th from Noon to 3:00pm.  It was also reported that the Cultivating Companions grant is going well and is close to finishing in Medford and Shady Cove.

President’s Report:   President Barbara Low shared the following information with the Board:

  1. President Low reported that the monthly meeting with MG Program Coordinator Grace Florjancic and Farm Manager Jake Hoyman went well this month. Discussion revolved around the joint purchase of a utility trailer, new furniture, and the OWL technology.
  2. MG Program Coordinator Grace Florjancic received a letter from OSU regarding our OSU Zoom account. OSU is updating security so there will no longer be shared accounts.  A new account has been set up for the President of JCMGA.
  3. President Low shared with the Board the new website page for the demonstration gardens. It was noted in discussion that the “Fig Garden” should be changed to the “Fig Grove”.
  4. President Low also noted security and other updates that are being addressed with the JCMGA website.
  5. President Low would like to schedule Dropbox training that will include Regina Boykins and will likely be scheduled on a Wednesday around 5:30pm.

Membership Secretary Report:   Membership Secretary Ann Ackles reported that two past JCMGA members have rejoined.  The revision to the online membership renewal form continues.

Discussion:

  1. Practicum Design Ad Hoc Committee Update: Jane Moyer reported that two bids have been submitted to date for construction of the new tool shed, lathe house, and practicum classroom.  A third bid is expected within a week.  Permission has been given to sell the folding chairs previously stored in the Creepy Old House (COH).  A final cleaning of the COH will be conducted soon. A number of items have been selected from the COH for repurposing including the sink, shelves, lights, and water heater.
  2. Practicum Updates: The Board approved the purchase of a new water heater at the June Board meeting however the repurposing of the functioning water heater from the COH has made the new purchase unnecessary.  The second donation of coir blocks will occur soon.  A discussion ensued regarding distribution of coir blocks to school gardens, community gardens, and Sanctuary One.
  3. Strategic Plan Revision. President Low asked the Board for comments or questions regarding the revisions to the 2024 Strategic Plan.   There were no questions.

Business:

  1. Utility Trailer: Janine Salvatti, Chair of the Gardens Working Group and Jane Moyer, a member of the Gardens Working Group, presented their discussion and recommendation for joint purchase of a utility trailer with Southern Oregon Research & Extension Center (SOREC).  The Board discussed ensuring the shared purchase and shared use of the utility trailer be put in writing with SOREC.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve a joint purchase of a utility trailer with SOREC for 25% use with a JCMGA cost contribution of two thousand dollars from the current budget and one thousand dollars from savings.   Motion passed.

  1. Master Gardener Clothing Fundraiser Proposal:  JCMGA member Alice Ingraham proposed a clothing fundraiser with donated shirts and donated artwork for t-shirts that could be worn by the general public and that would include a design and possibly a message such as “Friends of JCMGA”.  Proceeds of the sale of the shirts would go to JCMGA.  The Board would like to see a final proposed design for approval.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to support the development of a design for a Master Gardener shirt with donated shirts and request that the final design be reviewed by the Board for approval at the August Board meeting.   Motion passed.

  1. Proposed Policy Regarding Master Gardener Educational Scholarships: Community Outreach Chair Ronnie Budge reported on the history and process to develop a proposed policy that would offer educational scholarships to Master Gardeners.

MOTION:  It was moved and seconded to approve the proposed JCMGA Policy 3.9 Master Gardener Educational Scholarship.  Motion passed.

Announcements:

  1. Colet Allen, OMGA Representative, shared with the Board that a record number of attendees have registered for this year’s OMGA Joy of Gardening conference scheduled for July 12-13th.   Last year there were 140 attendees.  This year there are 250 attendees registered.
  2. Regarding the 2024 Fall Festival, Marcie Katz and Lucy Pylkki noted that after contacting all the other Extension Center programs, only the 4-H program agreed to participate. The Fair will be held September 28th from 9:00am to 2:00pm.   Only the Extension Center parking lot will be utilized for the Fair with approximately 10-15 vendors, plant sales, and a food truck.

Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 11:10am.

Next Meeting:

  1. The next Board meeting will be held August 9, 2024 from 9:00am to 11:30am

Respectfully Submitted by Kathy Apple, Recording Secretary

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