MCMGA Board Minutes for February 28th 2023

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.