MCMGA Board Minutes for May 23rd, 2023

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Present: Linda Goldser, Lorna Schilling, Jack Lazareck, Cynthia Chase, Susan Marcus,
Rich Becker, Mike Rutherford, Marcia McIntyre, Susanne Cavicchi, Christine Semeniuk, Carole Hardy, Marcia McIntyre

Minutes for April were approved.

June meeting to be at a place TBD as a social event and only business as necessary.

IE sale discussed and celebrated. More information on a debriefing to come.

Demo Garden report: Workshops and work were reported.

An attorney has agreed to meet with us at a reduced cost for any board questions.

June 4th Metro celebration of M.G.’s discussed. We’ll have 2 tables to showcase Demo Garden and to sell T-shirts and merchandise.

Upcoming OMGA Conference: Board approved an expense of $100 to send to OMGA as support of the scholarship fund fundraiser. Merchandise will also be sent from our stash for gift baskets.

MCMGA Board Minutes for April 25th, 2023

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Present: Lorna Schilling (President), Cynthia Chase (Vice President), Marcia McIntyre (Programs and Speakers), Rich Becker (OMGA Chapter Representative, IE Plant Sale), Christine Semeniuk (Bookkeeper) Susan Marcus (Acting Treasurer), Mike Rutherford (Administrator G-Suite and Historian), Linda Goldser (Director Demonstration Garden), Carole Hardy (eNews Chapter, Alternative OMGA Rep.), Jack Lazareck, Lisa Kirby, Angela Myatt (Secretary)

Approval of March 28th Minutes
Minutes were approved with the correction of Marcia’s last name.

Susan asked for clarification of the phrase “sliding scale” in reference to OMGA annual fees. Rich explained each member pays for what they choose. The Chapter pays what OMGA requires per individual.

Dam Proud Day
After a short discussion, Cynthia proposed a motion to donate $150 to Dam Proud Day. Mike seconded the motion which was passed. Cynthia encouraged all the Board members to contribute $50, as requested by Gail Langelotto.

Incredible Edible (IE) Sale
Rich reported that pre-sales were going well. Discussion followed on how to “get the word out” about the sale. Rich suggested sharing the QR code on the IE post card at several venues e.g., plant clinics, Farmers Markets etc. Other suggestions included distributing posters at Community Gardens, posting to Neighborhood Associations, NextDoor, Facebook and eNews. Several Board members volunteered to spread the word in their neighborhoods. For example, Mike will distribute the poster he printed in his SE neighborhood. Marcia clarified how many IE post cards were still available.

The pre-sale site will close on May 10th. Pre-sale pick up will be from 10 am to 2pm with the last time slot being 1.30pm. General admission will be from 2-3pm.

Rich confirmed an email had gone out asking for volunteers for the IE Sale.

Merchandise Unrelated Business Income Tax (UBIT)
There was discussion on selling merchandise and how UBIT is related to MCMGA as the latter is a nonprofit. Christine clarified that it is legal for a nonprofit to have a for-profit subsidiary running the website and selling merchandise. If such activities are conducted exclusively by volunteers, then the organization is not subject to UBIT.

Oregon Master Gardeners Association (OMGA)
Rich reported there has not been another meeting since the March Board meeting.

Grapevine
There were differing opinions about Grapevine. Marcia reported that Grapevine and the Washington County newsletter get the highest hits from the Metro Master Gardener newsletter. It was decided the Communications Committee were most qualified to investigate the longevity of Grapevine. Carole said it will be on the May agenda.

Demo Garden
Linda gave a detailed report of all the activities in the Demo Garden. For example: 3.5 lbs. of lettuce and Asian mustard were donated to the St. Francis Center and the ornamental cherry and Oregon grape are in bloom. They are now waiting for the City to turn on the water. The Soil Workshop was over two days, with 23 attending on Saturday and 20 on Sunday. There were several events on Earth Day, partnering with PSU, giving away Mason bee houses (made by Franklin High School students) and seed packets donated by Marcia. Evening “Come Learn” sessions will now be on the third Monday of every month. Marysville Elementary will be visiting on May 25th.

Lorna asked when the video of the Demo Garden Team would be available. When it is, it should be Google Drive and also You Tube.

Rich confirmed the Pergola construction is presently “under wraps”.

Social Activities
There was discussion on how to ensure a good turnout at events like the Soil Workshop and the visit to the Leach Botanical Garden. It was decided that Linda will work with Mike re: the timing and number of reminders for future Demo Garden events. Several factors come into play e.g., absences due to inclement weather and cases of Covid.

Lorna reminded everyone that ideas for social activities are encouraged.

Advocacy: Multnomah County Commissioners
Cynthia reported that Mike and she had met with a staff person of Diane Rosenbaum’s and another meeting is planned. Meetings with Sushila Jaipal, Jessica Vega Pederson, Lori Stegmann and Sharon Meieran are also expected to be scheduled.

Of the five Multnomah County Commissioners the goal is to find one who is interested and willing to engage with constituents representing Multnomah County Master Gardeners.

Cynthia noted that in twenty years no constituents have been promoting or advocating for Master Gardeners to the County Commissioners until now. Due to Dr. Lyles this is now changing. Lorna observed that until now, the Commissioners have been unaware of any funding needs/issues.

MCMGA Insurance
Lorna asked Angela to give an update on MCMGA Insurance as it relates to liability issues associated with construction of the pergola in the Demo Garden. The Chapter’s Insurance policy has a general liability clause of up to $10,000. There was discussion about individual Board members being personally liable. Christine suggested finding out if other Chapters have taken out Directors and Officers Insurance. Susan suggested hiring an attorney. Angela will investigate further and report back.

 

The meeting closed at 8.05pm
The next meeting of the MCMGA Board will be on May 30th, 2023, at 6.30 pm
Draft Minutes submitted by Angela Myatt (Secretary) May 4th, 2023, corrections incorporated March 8, 2023

MCMGA Board Minutes for March 28th, 2023

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Present: Lorna Schilling (President), Cynthia Chase (Vice President), Marcia McIntyre (Programs and Speakers), John Jordan (Fund Raising), Rich Becker (OMGA Chapter Representative, IE Plant Sale), Susan Marcus (Acting Treasurer), Mike Rutherford (Administrator G-Suite and Historian), Claudia Groth, Linda Goldser (Director Demonstration Garden), Carole Hardy (eNews Chapter, Alternative OMGA Rep.), Susanne Cavicchi (Director Communicate!) Marilyn Frankel, Angela Myatt (Secretary)

Approval of February 2023 Minutes:
Motion: Cynthia proposed a motion to approve the February 2023 Minutes with the correction to the spelling of Susan Marcus’s name.

Mike seconded the motion. Minutes so approved.

Membership:
There was discussion on how many clicks were necessary to renew membership via the website. Kaz will be asked to investigate the issue. There are currently 121 perennials and 26 trainees. Membership is down from 180 since Covid. Heidi will continue to check on membership renewals.

Incredible Edibles:
Rich reported there will be a general call for volunteers soon. He is currently looking at how to track pre orders when the email address is entered incorrectly. There followed discussion.

Information on the Sale will be in the April eNews.

Oregon Master Gardener Association (OMGA)
Rich reported there will be an increase of dues, but this will not significantly impact the Chapter because unlike other Chapters. the Chapter has implemented a sliding scale. Discussion followed on OMGA administration and funding issues. Comparisons were made with other similar organizations.

OSU DAM Proud Day April 26th 2023
Marcia reported on DAM Proud Day which is an annual day of giving, featuring programs at OSU. This year Master Gardeners are one of the five selected. Master Gardeners are encouraged to contact Gail Langelotto and LeAnn Locher with their experiences. Discussion followed on whether, and if so, how much, the Chapter should contribute. A decision will be made at April’s Board Meeting. DAM Proud will be featured on the Chapter Facebook and in the Chapter April eNews.

Logo and Merchandise
500 stickers with the new MCMGA logo have been purchased. There was discussion on how to make the logo available and to whom. There was general agreement that the Chapter should oversee the distribution of the logo on any/all merchandise. Now the logo is only accessible to the Communications Committee. Discussion continued on how and to whom, the logo, be it as a sticker or on merchandise, be distributed.

Motion: John proposed a motion to order 300 static cling stickers. Susan seconded the motion; it was passed unanimously.

Pergola
Rich said construction of the Pergola will continue after the IE Sale.

Social Activities
Cynthia reported on the trip to Leach Botanic Gardens on Sunday March 26th. Lisa Kirby led the tour. There was discussion on locations for further such activities, for example, Zenger Farm and the Chinese Garden. Cynthia will remain responsible for arranging social activities until someone else can be found. Carole will ask for interested parties in the next eNews.

Demo Garden
Linda reported on the many planned activities at the Demo Garden starting with the previous evening’s “Come Learn at the Demo Garden”. Six new volunteers have now joined those working in the Garden.

There was discussion on the best way to sign up for classes, including managing the wait list and no shows. Mike will investigate using Google forms. CERVIS (the Master Gardener Volunteer Console) remains an option.

Video Equipment
Cynthia offered to store the video equipment, taking over from Jack.

MCMGA Website
John gave a shout out to Corinne for all her work on the website, now including information on the Bottle Drop and Fred Meyer.

Contacting Multnomah County Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners
Lorna, Cynthia and Mike reported on progress to date. No meetings have been arranged so far. Cynthia noted that Angela Sandino is to be told of any meetings so that she can attend if possible.

Tri County Master Gardeners Meeting on June 4th
Marcia reported that with Lisa Kirby and Amy Espinosa she is working on arranging a meeting on June 4th to which all TriCounty Master Gardeners will be invited. It will be a fun event to cultivate community and an opportunity to meet Lisa and Amy. Possible locations were discussed.

Monthly Communications Committee meetings
Carole reported that the monthly Communications Committee social events at the Kennedy School will be replaced by outdoor events for the foreseeable future.

 

The meeting closed at 8.10pm
The next MCMGA Board meeting will be on April 25th at 6.30pm.
Minutes submitted by Angela Myatt Secretary MCMGA

MCMGA Board Minutes for February 28th 2023

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Present: Lorna Schilling (President), Cynthia Chase (Vice President), Marcia McIntyre (Programs and Speakers), John Jordan (Fund Raising), Rich Becker (OMGA Chapter Representative, IE Plant Sale), Marilyn Frankel, Jack Lazareck, Lisa Kirby, Claudia Groth, Heidi Nichols (Co Chair Demonstration Garden, Membership) Angela Myatt (Secretary)

Approval of January 2023 Minutes
Christine asked for the Minutes to be amended to remove “Co Chair of Demo Garden” from Susan Marcus’ responsibilities. Minutes were approved with that amendment.

Request For Funds
In an email to Lorna, Corinne, on behalf of the Education Committee, asked for input from the Board on the “MCMGA Project Idea Form and the Metro Extension Proposal for the Community Education Project with the All Families Welcome Preschool". As money is already in the budget it was decided there is no need for the Board to discuss further.

Insurance and Liability
It was decided that everyone who works in the Demonstration Garden needs to sign a waiver. There was discussion on the narrative of the waiver.
Later in the meeting Rich reported the foundation for Pergola has now been poured.

Membership
Heidi reported on the status of membership renewals. Discussion followed on possible incentives for renewing and it was decided that those who renewed would be entered into a raffle for one of two books or an MG vest. Agreement was reached on how many reminders to be sent out and when.

MCMGA Stickers
There was discussion on how and when to distribute the new MCMGA stickers. There were several suggestions on where it would be best to use the stickers/logo, for example, on selected Chapter merchandise. John agreed to order the stickers, liaising with Marcia.

Membership Cards
There was discussion on Membership cards and effective distribution thereof.

Rena Hoefling Bequest
There was discussion and many ideas on how to utilize the bequest from long time MCMGA member Rena Hoefling. This led to a general discussion on bequests and donations to the Chapter. No decisions were made at this time.

Multnomah County Budget and Election Update
John gave an update on the current status of both. At the time of the meeting no decision on the budget had been made.

Oregon Master Gardeners Association (OMGA)
Rich gave an update on OMGA membership.

Social Activities
Following on from reports of recent social events in the Washington and Clackamas County Chapter, there was discussion on possible venues and dates for Multnomah Chapter social activities, with emphasis in inclusivity. There were many suggestions including visiting the Leach Botanic Gardens.

2023 Incredible Edibles (IE) Sale
Rich reported he is exploring software which will meet the needs of pre-ordering plants to then be picked up at the event. Discussion followed regarding payment by credit card, checks and cash. The Board agree that the former is preferable for the IE sale.

Fund Raising
John applauded Corinne’s work on the website and suggested that, if possible, the Donate button be more prominent. He also noted the potential for Chapter funds being generated by Bottle Bank donations.

 

The meeting closed at 8.10 pm
Next meeting is Tuesday March 28th 2023 at 6.30pm (Zoom)
Minutes submitted by Angela Myatt (Secretary) March 24 2023
Approved, with correction, at March 2023 Board meeting.

MCMGA Board Minutes for Jan. 3, 2023 (December meeting)

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Present: Linda Goldser, Lorna Schilling, Cynthia Chase, Susan Marcus, Rich Becker, Mike Rutherford, Christine Semeniuk, John Jordan, Jack Lazareck, Carole Hardy, Marilyn Frankel, Heidi Nichols

Minutes from 11/2022 were approved with a correction/update for losses at Demo Garden which have surpassed $5000.

John Jordan discussed future fundraising efforts. More publicity for Fred Meyer donations need to be publicized as that is underutilized by members. Amazon Smile program has been $5 per year (update: that program has been cancelled by Amazon).

Update of IE Sale

Budget was approved to be sent to Membership for an approval vote.

Discussion of meetings with OSU Extension staff and plans for 2023 training and future funding.

MCMGA Board Minutes for Nov. 29, 2022

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Present: Linda Goldser, Lorna Schilling, Jack Lazareck, Cynthia Chase, Heidi Nichols, Susan Marcus, Rich Becker, Mike Rutherford, Christine Semeniuk, Marcia McIntyre, John Jordan, Susanne Cavicchi, Tom Ralley

Minutes for June and September were approved.

Mike Rutherford is working on our G-suite and will start suspending inactive accounts as a security precaution. Accounts can be reinstated easily if necessary.

Linda Goldser reported on the end of the Season at the Demo Garden and also reported on the unfortunate burglaries at the DG. Insurance claims are pending and losses are at least $3800.

New fundraising chair John Jordan reported on plans to modify website to allow for donations not related to membership. He is also looking at an email letter for fundraising.

Rich Becker reported on OMGA including a new advocacy group formed to advocate for MG funding with the State. They are updating goals and bylaws.

Discussion of upcoming meeting with Dr. Lyles Vice Provost of Extension.

Corinne is putting together a presentation of our 2022 activities to showcase our accomplishments.

Heidi Nichols discussed membership dues.

Board voted to maintain membership dues structure as a no minimum dues with $30 suggested and anything above $20 as a donation.

MCMGA Board Minutes for Sept. 27, 2022

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Attendees: Lorna Schilling, Cynthia Chase, Mike Rutherford, Rich Becker, Christine Semeniuk, Carole Hardy, Jack Lazareck, Linda Goldser, Susan Marcus, Marcia McIntyre, Susanne Cavicchi

August meetings were approved.

Communication Committee presented the latest iteration of logo as designed. General consensus is that it's on the right track.

Advocacy committee of OMGA is looking for more volunteers to support its goals statewide.

Future locations for in person meetings were discussed. Tentatively we are looking at April, May and June in person meetings. Locations under consideration are SMILE in Sellwood, Multnomah Arts Center in SW, and Multnomah County Building.

Budget was discussed.

Demo Garden report included the Harvest Festival report. Because of rescheduling, there was a smaller attendance of 36. Giveaway of Vesuvius tomato seeds and presentation of 2022 and 2023 awards. Great food was shared including a watermelon from the dry farming bed and newly churned ice cream.

Linda also shared some numbers about the DG. As of 9/27, 82 volunteers volunteered for 3300 hours, 33 of whom were new to the DG. 2400 Ibs. of produce was donated mostly to the All Saints Food Pantry in the Woodstock area.

MCMGA Board Minutes for Aug. 23, 2022 - no quorum so no votes were taken.

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Guest speaker Clackamas County MG Sherry Sheng attended to discuss the need for local and statewide MG Boards to recruit advocacy volunteers in our chapter.

Demo Garden report on Open Garden event which was a big hit. Discussion of upcoming Harvest Fest and Sparrowhawk native sale coming up. The sale is a fundraiser and because there was not a quorum, it was agreed that a poll of the board would go out to decide where the proceeds would go in the chapter.

Poll went out to voting board members. Vote was 7 yes and 1 no to allocate the proceeds from the sale to the Demo Garden fund.

Harvest Fest plans were discussed.

MCMGA Board Minutes for June 28, 2022

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Minutes from April and May 2022 meetings were approved.

Plans for the Oregon Mini-College were discussed. No sales of our merchandise will happen this year.

Discussion of future chapter meetings at St. David of Wales Church at 2800 SE Harrison (funded by an anonymous donor). Tentative plans are for March, April, May, and October of 2023 as in person speaker meetings.

Open volunteer leadership positions currently include: Secretary, Fundraising, and Education. Any ideas of volunteers is welcome.

Demo Garden reported 40 visitors some who have become volunteers this year. Also a Grant High class visited. A post-partum group is meeting at the garden as well. Public events for the Demo Garden are coming up including a presence at Brentwood Park for a community musical event on July 29th and an Open Garden with Backyard Habitat August 20th. September is our Chapter Harvest Fest on the 11th and on the 29th a joint native plant sale in conjunction with Brentwood-Darlington Neighborhood Association and Black Future Farms and Sparrowhawk Native Plants. Pergola project is still with the city waiting for next steps.

Education committee reports an education project at Rigler Elementary is happening 7/23. The project is a workshop to encourage, teach, and enable gardeners at Rigler Community Garden to plan and plant fall and winter vegetables.

MCMGA Board Minutes for May 24, 2022

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Budget discussion and cuts were made based on information of true expenses of canceled Incredible Edible Sale. Forecasting of possible expenses including logo project was incorporated.

Demo Garden report from Linda Goldser. DG volunteers were involved in 3 events in April and are looking to some future events including Open Gardens tour, Backyard Habitat virtual tour, and a July clinic table. A Weeds class with Integrated Pest Management principles is scheduled at the Demo Garden. (Could someone provide me that date so I can report in approved minutes?)

Harvest Party date is set for 09/10/2022. 

Carole Hardy has been appointed as OMGA alternative Rep by Lorna.

Cynthia reported that work is in process on Land Acknowledgement. 

MCMGA Board Minutes for April 26, 2022

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March minutes were approved.

Discussion of cancellation of 2022 Incredible Edible Sale. No budget decisions were made as starts that were ordered may sell and determination of non-refundable expenses is still unknown.

Discussion of September Harvest Party. Date to be determined.

1 position for Alternative Rep for OMGA has now opened as Jean Krieger has left Oregon. Recruitment is open.

Lorna has requested that DEI committee look into a Land Acknowledgement for our chapter.

MCMGA Board Minutes for Jan 4, 2022 at 6:30p on Zoom

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Attendees: Claudia Groth, Lorna Schilling, Cynthia Chase, Susan Marcus, Christine Semeniuk, Nancy Fine, Jack Lazareck, Elaine O’Keefe, John Jordan, Linda Goldser, Mary Abplanalp, Rich Becker, Susanne Cavicchi

Executive Board 2022

President, Lorna Schilling
Vice-President, Cynthia Chase
Treasurer, Susan Marcus
Secretary, Nancy Fine
OMGA Representative, Rich Becker (appointed)

**MCMGA members voted for the Executive Board and passed the Chapter budget for 2022.

Secretary - Nancy Fine
Nancy requested board members approve November and December 2021 Minutes by email.

Financial Report - Susan Marcus
Susan reported the budget broke even for 2021 in part due to early membership renewals in December. Renewals are preferred to start in January for accounting purposes.

Communication Update - Susanne Cavicchi
eNews deadline is Jan 5. Lorna will announce the new board in the next issue.

Demo Garden Update - Linda Goldser
Spring planning has started. Jan 27 is the first planning meeting.

Incredible Edibles Sale - Rich Becker
Planning is underway. Safety protocols and measures are priority. OSU Ext has requested normal operating plans and contingency plans.

OMGA Representative - Rich Becker
Motion made to vote in new OMGA rep. 7 votes Yes. Motion approved.

Award Committee - John Jordan
Send nominations to John. OMGA deadline is May 15. Chapter can start the process earlier.

OMGA, Mini-College
Mini-College is July 29-30 this year. OMGA seeks volunteers for the organizing committee.

Meeting Dates for 2022

All Tuesdays (generally the 4th Tuesday, but adjusted for holidays)

On Zoom until conditions justify changing
6:30pm to 8:30pm

Next Meeting is Jan 25, 2022 at 6:30pm

Meeting adjourned.

MCMGA Board Minutes for Dec. 7, 2021 at 6:30p Zoom online meeting

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Meeting led by Chapter President, Claudia Groth.

Update on the MG Training Program.

Discussion on the immediate future of the Chapter. 2022 Budget was reduced to minimum operating expenses and projects.

Meeting Dates for 2022

All Tuesdays (generally the 4th Tuesday, but adjusted for holidays)

On Zoom until conditions justify changing
6:30pm to 8:30pm

Next Meeting is Jan 20, 2022 at 6:30p

Meeting adjourned.


MCMGA Board Minutes for Oct 26, 2021 at 6:30p

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This meeting was recorded. Zoom online meeting

Attendees: Claudia Groth, Dave Owen, Elaine O’Keefe, Susan Marcus, Susanne Cavicchi, Corinne Thomas-Kersting, Linda Goldser, Christine Semeniuk, Rich Becker, Lorna Schilling, Mary Abplanalp, Tom Ralley, Marcia McIntyre, Nancy Fine

Announcements: There will be a naming protocol for files other than docs, to be discussed by the Communication Committee.

Secretary - Nancy Fine
Minutes for the last board meeting are in the Review file. Susan made a motion. It was seconded. Minutes were approved.

2022 Chapter Budget - Susan Marcus
Explanation of projected budget deficit - $23,000. There are enough assets, but requires spending saved funds.

Board President, Claudia
The Chapter would be spending with a fundraiser, Incredible Edibles Plant Sale, earning revenue or not. Which projects are we willing to pull back/cancel?
Covid and safety protocols next year are unknown.

Comments about projected spending:
- Be conservative, reduce spending.
- If in-person activities or events are not possible, it will save a lot of money.
- Risk factor is low for lost revenue. IE Sale can be cancelled quickly with little loss.
- We are trying to reinvigorate Chapter membership. 2 years of no activities. We are reaching out to the community.
- The projected budget is a manageable risk. IE Sale happens around midpoint.
- What we spend has increased a lot. Projects for 2022 is $40,000. It would wipe out the savings account. Equivalent amount would be needed the following year.

Board President recommends each group cut 15-20% of projections to reduce the deficit. Every committee gets less. Invest in our Chapter but be conservative for the future.

Discussion from all board and committee members present to reduce or clarify projected budget amounts.

Treasurer made note of projected budget changes:
Merchandise - $3000 (reduced from $6000). Chapter made $335 in row covers without promotion. Christine noted a need for a broader conversation about merchandising, using the new logo, Shopify. Recommends a finance position for online sales.

OMGA - Elaine O’Keefe noted that OMGA is holding Mini-College in July 2022.
OMGA dues $5/person (with option to ask for waivers). About $500

Demo Garden - Linda Goldser reduced amount for supplies.
Leave ‘utilities’ (water bill) in the DG budget as per agreement with PP&R. Note that signage amount (to complete project) will be available again in 2022. $150

Education - Corinne Thomas-Kersting noted some expenses for classes at the IE Sale will not be used if IE Sale doesn’t happen.

DEI Advisory Group - Dave Owen, Elaine O’Keefe, Nancy Fine, Susan Marcus, Jack Lazareck.
Projected amounts are for consultants, educational materials, honorariums for BIPOC Advisors.
Consultant is crucial to advise a small organization, bring about culture change. Intention for this to expand to the greater Chapter.

IT Website consultant - Kaz Otomo. Very reasonable cost estimate at $35/hr. Estimating $45/hr next year. May need some revisions on the website in Jan.

New logo - Jo Wirtheim to complete new logo in 2021. No need for budget in 2022.

Translation services - DG, Education Committees. Request increase from $850 to $1000
Education Committee will check UC-Davis Extension, others for translated materials. OSU Extension ‘Grow Your Own’ Publication will be offered in Spanish.

Member Services - Fund some outreach events, communications with Chapter.

Suggestions - send postcards highlighting the Chapter FB, social media. Announce classes, Demo Garden activities, etc. for the public.

Wrap up of Budget Discussion
Many but not all members are comfortable with this deficit for 2022, but not for each of the next 3 years.
Committee members reduced the budget deficit from $23,000 to $18,000.
After 1st Quarter, reassess, and reduce numbers if activities aren’t returning to normal.
Treasurer to prepare new 2022 Budget for voting Board members.
Chapter members to vote in January.
Voting to be conducted by online voting.

Nominations - Vice President, Dave Owen
Dave to report on nominations, recommendations to the Board.

eNews - Mary Abplanalp, Susanne Cavicchi. Send in items by Nov 3rd.

Meeting Dates for 2021

All Tuesdays (generally the 4th Tuesday, but adjusted for holidays)

On Zoom until conditions justify changing

6:30 pm to 8:30 pm

Next meeting is Nov 23, 2021

Meeting adjourned.

MCMGA Board Minutes for Sept 28, 2021 at 6:30p

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This meeting was recorded Zoom online meeting

Attendees: Weston Miller (OSU Ext Metro MG Program), Claudia Groth, Susan Marcus, Elaine O’Keefe, Tom Ralley, Christine Semeniuk, Corinne Thomas-Kersting, Jack Lazareck, Linda Goldser, Lorna Schilling, Marcia McIntyre, Mary Abplanalp, Rich Becker, Susanne Cavicchi, Nancy Fine

Presentation by Weston Miller on MG Training in 2022
There were technical issues, so it was shared without slides. Board President, Claudia, had connection issues.

Training

● Training is mostly online modules from Gail Langellotto. 8 wks. of topics. Also 15 min presentations and Q+A on Zoom with Weston, presenters.

● Equity and Inclusion classes will be required. This includes customer service training.

● 2022 Class: 60pp. Mixed class for Multnomah and Washington Counties is 30pp. Clackamas County class is 30pp.

● This class format aims to improve content quality and MG experience.

Outdoor workshops

● Workshops are planned for the Learning Gardens Lab - MCMGA, PCC Rock Creek - WCMGA Education Garden. They will be limited to 25 participants max. Group size is determined by individual locations and Chapter, Program agreements.

● MG Program is planning an outdoor venue for orientation to volunteer activities. What’s available? Online help desk, Demo Garden for Multnomah County.

3 Tuition options

● Tuition is reduced from $495 to: $200 (reduced fee), $250 (standard) $300 (pay-it-forward). Tuition still doesn’t cover the cost of programming.

● No scholarship process.

● No new books.

Activities

● Form to apply. Besides details, It will question - is it serving or reaching out to new or underserved communities?
Ex: Higher on list - Fix-it-fair. Lower on list - regular activities that don’t reach new audiences.

Discussion

● Question about program vs. partner designation. To be decided between Gail, Weston, Marcia (Statewide and Metro MG Program).

● Question about donating a seat or slot for BIPOC students, historically marginalized groups? Weston - There will be limited slots. Best way to fill slots is probably using relationships to recruit people with partner organizations. (Ex: Black Futures Farm, OFB-Oregon Food Bank, VA-Veteran Affairs)

● Weston: If a Chapter or individuals want to make donations to the Agricultural Research Foundation Account, this qualifies for the pay-it-forward model. It’s tax deductible.

Additional considerations from Weston

● Weston is submitting a funding and support proposal to OSU:
Request for stable funding from OSU- $51,000. Chapters need to raise $20,000 per year to support the effort. (Washington and Multnomah split cost.)

● Multnomah Chapter needs to support $10,000.

● Meeting next week with the Interim OSU Ext Director. Weston will assert this is OSU Extension’s highest profile program in the Metro area.

● Funding is only secured until June 30th 2022.

● Metro funding is not available for MG Program.

● OSU Ext needs to cover 2 positions + Weston’s position.

● Weston acknowledges the request for BIPOC support.

● Also messaging from the program to the public. 1500pp filled out an interest form for the MG program in 2020.

● LeAnn Locher is leading promotions. She’s sending interested persons to the appropriate educational service that OSU provides. (Ex: Gail’s Home Horticulture Certificate Course).

● Seeking ideal candidates - Garden educators to serve the public.

MCMGA Board Meeting continues

Claudia rejoined the meeting due to technical issues.

Announcements

Please use the following name format when filing documents and reports in the Chapter Drive: Title Year/month/day Ex: MCMGA Board Minutes 2021.09.28

Secretary - Nancy Fine
Minutes were distributed prior to the meeting.
Jack made a motion to pass the minutes. It was seconded. Minutes unanimously passed.

Treasurer - Susan Marcus
Budget Discussion for 2022

● OSU Ext Donation - Regarding the scholarship application, the intention is to direct outreach for underrepresented people in community organizations and similar groups.
Board President proposes OSU Program Donation Support $7500 (not to the OSU Foundation)
Discussion about offering this support now or waiting until funding runs out. Weston will take Chapters’ support now to OSU management for the next funding cycle.

● Merchandise sales, New Logo

MCMGA Board Minutes for August 24, 2021 at 6:30p

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This meeting was recorded Zoom online meeting

Attendees: Claudia Groth, Susan Marcus, Corinne Thomas-Kersting, Jack Lazareck, Elaine O’Keefe, Christine Semeniuk, Marcia McIntyre, Mary Abplanalp, Susanne Cavicchi, Linda Goldser, Lorna Schilling, Dave Owen, Tom Ralley

Secretary - Nancy Fine
Secretary was N/A. Susan took Minutes.

Treasurer - Susan Marcus
Budgeting process is going according to schedule. Contact Susan or Christine for info.

Communications budget items are computers and website updates. Do we need to add an additional category? Board Vice President, Dave, is in favor of increasing the Communications budget for items like software.

Linda asked how to handle unforeseen expenses. Example: water bill - Portland Parks and Rec has not billed for water though they stated it would be billed. DG needs water in the budget, but the amount goes unused.

Inquiry about a $1000 donation to a nonprofit. Are we going to do that? Normally donate excess plants from IE sale to Oregon food bank. In lieu of holding the IE sale we made a cash donation last year. Dave will research possible groups that we can donate to - disadvantaged and marginalized groups.

Policy & Procedure Update

Board President, Claudia, noted changes to the policy and procedure policy.

Corinne made a motion and Susan seconded the motion. All present board members voted in favor.

DEI Toolkit
Group didn’t receive feedback from anyone but said that Claudia’s introduction was well done.

Comments: It’s a great document. Suggestion to put a date at the bottom so it can show revision dates. Comment: Next step is to institutionalize it. Get members in the habit of referring to the toolkit as we do any projects, events, etc. Question if anyone has an objection to sharing the document with other organizations? No one objected. Comment: sharing would be good. Maybe share it with Wash and Clackamas counties?

Action Item: Toolkit needs contact info so people can email or call someone about DEI support.

Land Acknowledgement
Board president will send out the land acknowledgement from OSU Ext. Metro DEI group.

OMGA - Elaine O’Keefe
OMGA sent Claudia the website link as the best place to stay up to date on OSU COVID policy.

As of this Friday, Governor Brown mandates masks inside and outside in events and groups of 10 or larger.

Next OMGA meeting is online, September 10th in the afternoon. Elaine is looking for someone to attend in her place. She will confirm date and time. Board Vice President, Dave, offered to attend the meeting for Elaine.

Comment: OMGA survey was sent after attending mini college but the survey didn’t offer a place to offer constructive criticism, so not much use.

Education Update - Corinne Thomas-Kersting
Current education project - second batch of free seed kits have been collected. They put together 60 seed packets and have distributed 20+ so far. Low cost project. It could possibly be customized for kids or for a specific culture or language. Translations in multiple languages.

Should this be budgeted at the Chapter level? Inquiry for it to be made with less plastic, which Dave is researching.

Educate committee will add a link to the DEI toolkit to their forms. Committee plans to start in person meetings again in February 2022.

Trench gardening seminar. Tabling events - booth and activities for adults and kids - at neighborhood events, repair fair, etc.

Extension Request

Extension requests all the counties to sponsor the intern training. (Chapters do classes and seminars, and Extension holds workshops). MG training will be mostly online.

OSU Extension Representative, Marcia - Training is being coordinated statewide. Some in-person workshops will occur outdoors. They’re seeking Chapters to support this effort and training similar to the past. Multnomah County has done a great job of this. Focus on training interns to handle diagnostics.

4-5 classes are typically offered at the IE Sale. This cost should be budgeted by Education.

Communications Update - Susanne Cavicchi

eNews deadline is Sept 8th.

Susanne should connect with Cory Haussmann/neighborhood associations. Claudia will send her contact info.

DG brochure update. Cara Finlayson is updating hours/days of being open on the brochures. It doesn’t need to be reprinted. They have about 400 brochures.

New logo might continue development into next year. Claudia will contact Jennifer Simpson, Merchandise coordinator, about using the new logo on merchandise.

YouTube channel is up and running. Next steps are to publicize it and populate it with videos.

Corinne and Claudia are working on a video. The YouTube channel will be announced in the September eNews. We need to encourage members to subscribe to our channel so they get alerts when new videos are posted.

We need to decide how we’re going to get Instagram up and running.

Demo Garden Update - Linda Goldser
1,500 pounds of produce donated to date this year.

HPSO grant is finalized and the report is sent in. Project is done. All expenses are in. Signage in four of the perennial beds. Additional signage costs to be estimated in the budget.

DG survey received an 11% response rate. General consensus was to get DG reports on a monthly basis sent via email. No report since April. Claudia has a problem with demo garden sending a separate newsletter. Claudia sees it as part of the Chapter communications. Linda asked how DG info would be conveyed to all of the non-master gardener entities. Suggestions to post it on Facebook and the website (and Instagram when that gets started). We should absolutely have the same demo garden news that we put in the eNews.

Comment: Tom supports Linda in that demo garden news is sent out to a bunch of non MG folks. It’s important that we continue to connect and reach people outside our master gardener circle.

Long discussion about how to reach those folks.

Decision to send them an email with a link to the DG news on our website. Also post the link on Facebook.

Member Connect

Awards
Tom sitting in for John. Longevity awards. Suggestion to award other items. Ex: mug

Revised schedule for awards so that it coincides with the gardening year. Process now starts in June and July with awards decided in August and given out in the Fall. So we won’t give out awards this year as we move to a new schedule.

Directory
Heidi requests what we’re including in the directory and she will get it done. Do we just list names and numbers, or do we also want to know dates of events, meetings, etc? Heidi will create a pdf in a 8.5” x 11” format so people can print it out. Won’t include 2020 interns unless we get that info from Marcia.

Fund Raising
Incredible Edible Sale is May 7th, 2022.

Plant stakes
Ordering 4,000 stakes costs $134. 7000 stakes costs $200. Need to decide what to put on the plant stake.

Decision to list website address and tag line. Claudia to coordinate printing 7000 plant stakes.

Meeting Location
Budget for meeting space in 2022. Everything stays online through March of 2022 but we might return to in person meetings after that.

Meeting Dates for 2021

All Tuesdays (generally the 4th Tuesday, but adjusted for holidays)

On Zoom until conditions justify changing

6:30pm to 8:30pm

Next meeting is Sept 28, 2021

Meeting adjourned.