Executive Board Meeting Minutes

The meeting was called to order at 9:05 A.M. Members present: Dan Sokoloski, Alan Fitzgibbon, Arlene Hubner, Peggy Meinzer, Shirley Waggoner-Eisenman, Becky Dus, Charles Spencer and Richard Boland.

Website: Becky Dus reported that she had not been able to meet with Lisa. Becky and Dan will meet later to follow up on the progress of website development.

Programs: It is felt that the mailing time of the newsletter should be adjusted in order to eliminate gaps in time between meetings of the board and the general membership and programs following the business portion of monthly meetings. The program for the May general meeting will be a walk-through and orientation to the Talking Tree Trail. There was discussion concerning the June meeting as to whether or not to have a speaker for the recognition banquet or keep it more social. It was suggusted that the owner of Curb Appeal in Southport be invited to speak.

It was decided that a change should be made in the date of mailing the newsletter for the purpose of pairing the board meeting and the general meeting. The newsletter should summarize information and data that come from these meetings to better inform the membership of activities leading up to the next pair of meetings. Such change should result in better coordination of activities and enhancement of knowledge of association activities.

Peggy reported a lull in the mailing of "get well" notes. Hopefully a good sign. Dan suggested a column about members in the newsletter in addition to sending cards. Information should be sent to Becky and Peggy.

Charlie Spencer: Help is needed on the Hot Line. This represents our main purpose and needs to be attended to by experienced members. June will be one of our busiest months in terms of client calls. Psycho-Social Rehabilitation meets on Wednesday, Maritime Day at the State Ports Authority will be on Sunday; plant sale in the afternoon of the general meeting, life on the farm on the 27th and plant sale. Good progress is being made on the development of the Tree Trail. Requests for programs are being received from public libraries.

Recognition Dinner and Christmas Party: Arlene and Ann Duke will chair these events and are in detailed planning mode.

Input from the board is welcome. Kathy Walters was consulted concerning her help with the recognition activities and will request MG Volunteer help as needed.

Gardening By the Month: Shirley - An additional printing of the book is needed. The board approved an additional 175.

Dan wants material developed to promote the Association during presentations in a variety of settings. This would include power point, brochures, business cards, etc. A call will be put out at the general meeting for persons who would serve as a committee to put together a promotional package. There is a resource person on staff who can give guidance.

The meeting was adjourned at 10:15 A.M.

Respectfully submitted,
Richard Boland, Recording Secretary