Members' page | JCC/W Master Gardeners

A motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes of the December 1, 2011, meeting as posted to the JCC/Williamsburg Master Gardeners web site. The motion was approved unanimously by all those present.

The Treasurer’s report posted to the MG web side was approved by those in attendance.

Marilyn provided an overview of the Virginia Master Gardeners Association. The VMGA has a membership over 600 and meets every other month. VMGA conducts the MG College each year at Virginia Tech. Dave Close is the state coordinator for the MG College. VMGA also sponsors a number of significant events during the year, including the event scheduled for Virginia State University in February. VMGA also maintains communications with other MG associations. Marilyn also mentioned the Mid-Atlantic Short Course being held in Newport News, January 30-February 1, 2012.

The MG officers and chairs in attendance were introduced to the new Master Gardens.

Ailene Bartlett has volunteered the use of her wood shop for the birdhouse project. Dan Tevlin will continue to lead that effort. Their new challenge is to fine a source for the wood needed in the construction of the birdhouses.

Beth encouraged project chairs to recruit and develop team members for co-chair positions.

Dennis Wool announced that Barrels & Bins would be meeting today and they are looking for interested volunteers.

After today’s meeting John Giffin and Linda will be in the small conference room to answer questions and demo the new hours tracking system. All 2011 hours should be turned in today or submitted to Dave Banks by no later than January 31.

Anne Odle and Mary Edwards gave a brief overview of the two Therapeutic Gardening projects at Eastern State Hospital. Anne outlined the Greenhouse project and its objectives. Mary explained the Geriatric project and the types of activities. Sign-up sheets were provided for anyone that might be interested in participating in these two projects.

Chere’ Harper announced that the Plant Sale effort goes into high gear beginning Monday, Jan. 9. Anyone interested in a specific area was encouraged to call Chere’. Also, volunteers for transportation of plants are needed.

Jean Millin announced that the Water Steward Program training began on Jan.4. She also announced that the 2013 International Master Gardener College would be held on an Alaskan cruise ship.

Bob Winter gave an overview of the Turf Love/Garden Love project. Garden Love will focus on establishing rain gardens, but participants must first come through the Turf Love project. Installation of a rain garden will involve several meeting with the homeowners and a contract for maintenance of the garden. There will be some financial assistance available. James City County is looking to the Garden Love program to help with TMDL. The goal is to install 300 rain gardens. Master Gardeners will play a vital role in this effort. The first training is scheduled for 9:00 a.m., Feb. 22, at the Human Services Building. Laurie Fox will be participating in the training.

Doris mentioned the volunteer reception being planned for April, at the Human Services Building, in recognition of the contribution made by volunteers. She also mentioned the reception being held January 26, for County officials and administrators highlighting what Extension does for the County and its residents. She thanked the new Master Gardeners.

Following the Business Meeting a graduation ceremony and reception was held for the 2011 graduates of the Master Gardener program.

A motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes of the October 6, 2011, meeting as posted to the JCC/Williamsburg Master Gardeners web site. The motion was approved unanimously by those present.

Members were reminded that it’s once again time for the $15 annual dues. Bob will be accepting checks today. Also, please submit any reimbursements for the current year.

The next VMGA meeting will be held on December 10, at South Boston. Any one that wishes to attend should contact Anglea.

Our organization will be hosting the April 14, 2012, VMGA meeting. Dave Close will be attending. This will be an excellent opportunity for those who have never attended a VMGA meeting to see how the meetings are conducted.

Project Leaders are asked to get their expenses in for reimbursement. Project Chairs are asked to keep a record of all expenses associated with their project, even if they do not submit those expenses for reimbursement.

At this time we do not have a Project Chair for Wood Products. Dan Teflin has been working with the previous Project Chair. He has experience making the bird houses and is willing to continue working with a new Project Chair, but he does not have the equipment need to make the products. If anyone has the equipment and space to do this project, please consider the position of Project Chair for Wood Products.

The Extension Program has been under review and a report from the Secretary of Education has been published. Doris is looking over that report now. In February or March there will be a social in the Peninsula area for the new Director of Extension, Edwin Jones. Attendance by MGs is encouraged. Doris expressed her thanks for all the MGs have done during the past year.

· John Giffin – Demonstration of New Time Keeping System – Questions and Answers after meeting in Room C.

Next year Turf Love will be promoting rain gardens and decreasing the emphasis on turf. They will focus on using native plants in the landscape. They will be working with a Grant funded program for landscape design featuring rain gardens, nutrient management, commercial work plans, and home owner associations. If you have a space that you would like to use for a rain garden, please put in your request. The January Newsletter will have an article explaining this program.

· Water Steward books for Judy Casone, Gary Streb, Katherine Duncan, Tod Allen, and Joanne Sheffield are in Roger’s car. Please see him after the meeting.

JCC/W MASTER GARDENER ASSOC. GENERAL MEETING
November 3, 2011

Program at 9:00am – Harriet Parsons:

Williamsburg Physical Therapy Group –

Gardening Practices to Save Your Hands, Backs, and Knees

Business Meeting Agenda

The meeting was called to order by the President, Roger Evans, at approximately 10:15 a.m.

Secretary’s Report – Mary Edwards

Treasurer’s Report – Bob Winther

Bob Winter presented a breakdown of the current checking account balance of $21,438.64 (General Account $7,991.17, Reserve Fund Account $9,245.00, Training Class Fund Account $3,481.43, Tree Stewards Account $422.67, Water Stewards Account $298.37).

A motion was made and seconded to approve the Treasurer’s report of November 1, 2011. The motion was approved unanimously by those present.

VMGA Reps. Report – Marilyn Riddle

VMGA is seeking volunteers to help with the web site.

There will be a continuing education program at Virginia State University, February 25, 2012, “From the Field to the Table”.

Piedmont/Blue Ridge Horticultural Society has partnered with the Environmental Studies Department of Shenandoah University to present “Tomorrow’s Landscapes” on April 14, 2012, at Shenandoah University. The registration fee is $99.

A meeting with local government officials is being considered to enlighten them about the contributions made by Master Gardeners to the community.

Dr. Grant has appointed Roger Harris as head of the Agricultural Department at Va Tech as of October 1, 2011.

Admin. Report – Margene Hartsough

By Laws changes previously presented during the September 1, 2010 meeting. Those present agreed that the proposed changes did not need to be read as they have been available on the JCC/Williamsburg Master Gardeners web site. Changes are being made to Article V, Section 4, Article VII, Section 2, and Article VIII, Section 1.

Old Business

· John Giffin gave a demonstration of the new time keeping system. He presented a step-by-step example of signing on and completing the profile information. He also provided a handout. John will be available after the December and January meetings to help individuals that have questions or are having difficulty.

New Business

· Summer Social

Roger asked the group whether there was any interest in having a summer social. The response of the group indicated that there is no interest at this time.

Announcements/Questions

· Chere’ Harper is making arrangements for a meeting of the Plant Sale committee chairs on Monday, November 14. As soon as she receives confirmation of room reservations she will send out an email.

· Roger has hours award certifications for those have not received their certificate. Please come forward after the meeting and retrieve your certificate.

Business Meeting Agenda

The meeting was called to order by the President, Roger Evans, at approximately 10:15 a.m.

A motion was made by John Giffin to approve the minutes of the September 1, 2011, meeting as posted to the JCC/Williamsburg Master Gardeners web site. The motion was seconded by Harriet Parsons and approved unanimously by those present.

Bob Winter presented a breakdown of the current checking account balance of $22,060.56 (General Account $8,613.09, Reserve Fund Account $9,245.00, Training Class Fund Account $3,481.43, Tree Stewards Account $422.67, Water Stewards Account $298.37).

A suggestion was made to place some of the Reserve Funds in an interest baring account. Bob indicated that we could look into this suggestion. The banks are paying very low interest at this time.

Those present voted to skip the reading of the proposed by-laws changes. The proposed changes are available on the JCC/Williamsburg Master Gardeners web site.

Get with John Giffin for questions. We are compiling a laundry list of problems/changes. Someone suggested that a training session should be scheduled. John will look into scheduling a session.

· Project Chairs – We are looking for individuals interested in Project Co-chair positions. The co-chair would assist the Project Chair and perhaps step-up to the Project Chair position in the future. Also, we are looking for a co-chair for the Project Chairperson.

· Jack Kniest has used window sashes and he is offering them to Master Gardeners for the construction of cold frames. If anyone is interested, Jack can be reached at (757) 592-6444, and his address is 426 Airport Rd. near Waller Mill Park.

· Carol Fryer reminded everyone that the next MG training classes would begin in January, 2012. They will need mentors and class managers. If you are interested in filling either of those positions, please contact Mary Liz Sadler. Flyers advertising the classes are available.

· Blanton Elementary School has their garden ready and they are in need of plants. If you have any to spare, contact Lisa Stefanick.

· Peg Crews needs help on the Help Desk for the winter. They have made arrangements so that this can actually be done from your home. If you can help, please contact Peg Crews.

JCC/W MASTER GARDENER ASSOC. GENERAL MEETING
September 1, 2011
Program at 9:00am – Harriet Parsons:   Trees--Sue Liddell, MG, Trees of Williamsburg, Tall Treasures

@15-minute break
Business Meeting Agenda
The meeting was called to order by the President, Roger Evans.
A motion was made to approve the minutes of the August 4, 2011, meeting as posted to the JCC/Williamsburg Master Garderner web site. The motion was seconded and approved unanimously by those present.
Bob Winter presented a breakdown of the current checking account balance of $22,039.80 (General Account $8,592.33, Reserve Fund Account $9,245.00, Training Class Fund Account $3,481.43, Tree Stewards Account $422.67, Water Stewards Account $298.37).

VMGA Reps. Report – Angela Cingale

Marilyn Riddle needs volunteers to work at the Virginia State Fair. The hours would be 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Volunteers may sign-up for the hours they are able to work. Volunteers are needed to greet visitors, answer questions, and dispense brochures. All workers would have free admission to the fair. Please call Angele Cingale if you are able to help at the fair.

International Master Gardener College is October 11-14, in southern West Virginia. It may never be this close for many years. Please consider attending.

The Shenandoah Valley MG Association is sponsoring “CULTIVATING COMMUNITY FOOD SYSTEMS” on September 24, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Rockingham County Admin Center, Harrisonburg, VA.

A seminar titled “WATERWISE LANDSCAPING: GOOD PRACTICES=GOOD WATER QUALITY” is scheduled for October 22, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. sponsored by VMGA and the Franklin County Master Gardeners.

Angela is looking for Monarch Butterfly caterpillars. If anyone has them in their yard, please get in touch with her. A butterfly tagging and release is scheduled for September 17, at the Botanical Gardens.

Internal Ed Report: Harriet Parsons

A Tree Walk conducted by Dr. Ware, is scheduled for September 15, at 10:00 a.m. at the Crim Dell Amphitheater. A sign-up sheet is available up front or you may send an email to Harriet.

For our December meeting we will have a video presentation by Doug Tallamy titled “Bringing Nature Home.” Community TV, channel 47 will be showing this same video during the month of September.

On September 21, at 5:30 p.m. at the DeWitt Museum, Andrea Wulf will be discussing her book “The Founding Gardeners”. Today’s edition of the Washington Post had a good article on Ms. Wulf’s book.

Admin. Report: Margene Hartsough

Margene read through the By-Laws changes that have been recommended by the Board and explained why these changes are appropriate. The changes will be voted on at the November General Meeting.

Old Business

Roger reviewed the positions that have been filled and those still available. He also explained that the Board voted to combine the Mobile Master Gardener and the Speakers Bureau positions.

Filled Positions
1.         Publicity – Angela Cingale and Toni Webb
2.         Short Term Coordination of the County Fair -Richard Stratton, Gigi Burrows and Eric Bramfitt

Empty Positions
Mobile Master Gardener/Speakers Bureau

New Business

Due to Hurricane Irene there may be members of our organization that need help with yard clean-up. If you need assistance or know of someone that needs assistance, please get in touch with Roger. Also, let Roger know if you are available to help.

Announcements/Questions

A clean-up day has been scheduled at the Historic Triangle location on September 8, 2011, beginning at 9:00 a.m.

Mary Liz Sadler announced that judging for the Colossal Sunflower Contest will take place on September 10, at the Colonial Williamsburg Farmer’s Market. Saddler

The E2 Project training has been completed. Kari will be sending an email to those interested in helping with this project. The email will give the days and times. Also, if you are interested in the Growing Up Wild workshop, please send Kari an email.

Jean Millin announced that applications for the Water Steward class are being accepted beginning today. If you are interested, get in your applications quickly. Three speakers will be coming from Va Tech to teach this class.

Jerry Babski reminded everyone that now is the time to start propagating plants for the annual Plant Sale. Last year Col were very popular. He is looking for unique types of col for next year’s sale.

John Giffin recommended that everyone start practicing in the new hours reporting system. When you first sign-in the system will ask you three questions. You can answer the questions or not, if you don’t answer the questions, the system will ask you every time you sign-in.

Next Meeting October 6

JCC/W MASTER GARDENER GENERAL MEETING

August 4, 2011

Barbara Lombardi, Photographer, CWF Photography in the Garden presented the program “Photography in the Garden”

The meeting was called to order by President, Roger Evans at 10:00.

The minutes of the June 2, 2011, meeting were read by Secretary, Mary Ellen Edwards, and approved.

The Treasurer’s Report was given by Bob Winther. The report included the balance of the checking account, and the segments of that balance, i.e. General Account ($9827.29), Reserved Fund Account ($9245.00), Tree Seward Fund Account (422.67), and the Water Steward Fund Account ($298.37).

Internal Ed Report – Angela Cingale

A Hypertufa workshop will be held on October 20, 2011 at the Presley’s at 10:00 a.m. The workshop is limited to 20. A sign-up sheet was provided for those interested in attending. A brief explanation of hypertufa was provided.

Another workshop is being offered on Terrariums. A sign-up sheet was also provided for this workshop.

Projects – Beth Fugate

Beth introduced herself to those in attendance. She is in the process of developing an email group for the Project Chairs. As soon as that is completed she will be contacting the chairs. She asked the chairs to be patient as she knows she will need their assistance.

Beth also mentioned the positions that are not yet filled (Publicity, Mobile Master Gardener, Speakers Bureau, and short term coordination for the County Fair activities).

Cooperative Extension Rep – Doris Heath

The General Assembly awarded one million dollars to Extension. Doris has surveyed agents to determine where the greatest need existed within the planning zone. They have indicated that the highest priority should be given to the JCC agent position. Doris is communicating with officials at the local level is she what funding is available. She hopes to fill the position with the next 12 to 18 months.

Awards – Barbara and Art Gustafson

250 Hour Award
Peg Crews absent
Gary H. Driscole absent
Laura V. Hill absent
John Johnson absent
Bruce Kline absent
Mary Mills absent
Jeanne Muller absent
Mary Ann Wittle Present
Janice R. Wolford Present
Fran Zinn absent

500 Hour Award
Annette Bell absent
Carolyn Gaertner Present
Mary J. Gilman absent
Helen Kidder absent
Barbara Landa Present
Kathy Lykins absent
Frank Messina absent
Sheila Nigro absent
Anne Odle absent
Mary Lib PuIler Present
Barbie Siegle absent
Dan Tevlin Present
Linda Wever Present
Dennis Wool Present

1000 Hour Award
Suzanne Brown Present
Reba Hazelwood Present
Peggy Krapf absent
Jeanne Millin Present
Lyn Natanski absent
Anne Nielsen Present
Mary Liz Sadler absent

2000 Hour Award
John Giffin Present
Linda Lucas Present

3000 Hour Award
Arthur Gustafson Present- rec’d at MG College

5000 Hour Award
Barbara S. Gustafson Present- rec’d at MG College

Old Business

Empty Positions

Roger reiterated that the following positions remain unfilled and they are all very important to the success of the organization.

1. Publicity

It is vital to get information to the public about our programs. This position does not involve a major time commitment.

2. Mobile Master Gardener

John Giffin has been doing this duty since July 1, 2010. He has been doing the job for a year. He indicates that it does not take a great deal of time. The position mostly involves storing the materials and getting them to MGs when they need them.

3. Speakers Bureau

This is a coordination position. Roger has already received two requests for speakers.

4. Short Term Coordination of the County Fair

This is a seasonal position to work with Doris Heath to coordinate MGs to work various posts at the County Fair (barrels and bins, judges, etc.)

New Business

Reimbursement Form Change – Bob Winther

The new Reimbursement Form will be used from now on. This is a changeable .pdf document. Those seeking reimbursement should complete the form, print, attach receipts, and mail or give it to the Treasurer, Bob Winther. The biggest change is that all reimbursement requests must be approved by the Project Chair. This can be accomplished by ink signature or attached approval email from the Project Chair.

Time Keeping Change – Linda Lucas

Beginning January 1, 2012, a new time recording system will be used by all of Extension. W/JCC has agreed to test the system between now and the beginning of the year. In the meantime, continue to record your hours on the existing system. You will be receiving an email from Dave Close explaining how to log-in and establish your password. All are encouraged to sign-on to the new test system and play around.

Linda previewed the sign-in process and establishing a Profile.

Doris Heath explained that this system will be used state wide. She stressed how important it will be to record all your hours. State officials will use this system to see the active projects and how many hours are being worked when they need that information.

Announcements/Questions

Plant Sale – Chere` Harper

The location and dates for the Plant Sale have been approved. The location is the Interpretive Center at Freedom Park. The dates are April 27-28, 2012. As mentioned earlier we do need publicity for the sale.

Landscape Love – Anne Nielsen

Registration opened Monday. This past spring 48 visits were made.

Donna Sanders is leading the Jamestown Team, but another team leader is needed.

Barrels and Bins – Dennis Wool

They have lots of barrels available. The large barrels are $65 and the small white barrels are $50.

Super Turf Saturday – Bob Winter

Super Turf Saturday is this weekend at the Williamsburg/James City County Community Center, beginning at 8:30 a.m. and lasting for three hours. There will be three speakers and trade show vendors.

Next General Meeting will be September

James City County/Williamsburg
Master Gardeners

MG Members Pages

VCE Guide (pdf)

JCC/W MG Newsletter (pdf)

2012

February

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007

2006

2005

2004

2003

JCC/W MG Bylaws

Master Gardener Meetings -- 2012

All meetings are at the Williamsburg Library at 9:00 am unless indicated otherwise.

Business Meeting Agenda

Old Business

New Business

James City County/Williamsburg Master Gardeners

MG Members Pages

VCE Guide (pdf)

JCC/W MG Newsletter (pdf)

2012

February

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007

2006

2005

2004

2003

JCC/W MG Bylaws

Master Gardener Meetings -- 2012

All meetings are at the Williamsburg Library at 9:00 am unless indicated otherwise.

Business Meeting Agenda

Old Business

New Business

James City County/Williamsburg
Master Gardeners