Draft 12-12-11
DECEMBER BOARD MEETING
President, Mary Ann Melton, called the meeting to order at1:00 PMwith 9 members present. She started by stating her thank you to all the work board members have done and stating how much she has enjoyed her year as president.
The November minutes were approved as posted on the web sites with a motion by Wayneand a 2nd by Sterlin.
The treasurer reported that the new treasurer has all the records and that he is absent. Most bills for the year have been submitted for payment.
Waynestated four people have signed up and paid for the 2012 class. He has had several calls from people living in TravisCountyand they have been advised that they can sign up only after all interested Wilco people have registered.
MaryAnn stated she hoped to have the financial audit done in early January. Gail made a motion, 2nd by Dave that Dee, Winnie and Geri serve on that committee.
Winnie read the Year in Review and a couple of items were added by those present. MaryAnn then read the list of goals the board originally listed the first of the year and we were all amazed at how much the chapter has achieved during its first full year of operation.
MaryAnn has put together a slide show to run continuously at the annual/December meeting.
Geri reported that a few members (she wishes for more) have been meeting regularly on Tuesday mornings to remove invasive plants fromRiveryPark.Devonwas present at the aquatic invertebrate training. That monitoring will be done once a month at each of two different points at the pond using two different methods at each site. Members must supply their own magnifying glass.
Sterlingreported the Project Wild training was fun. The program will fit well and be helpful to our Kid Education program as it develops.
Diane said she has talked to several people who live in Williamson Country but are members of the Austin MN chapter. We encourage them to transfer.
MaryAnn stated that after a meeting withGeorgetownRecCenterkid program personnel that we will be participating during spring break and for 1-2 hours every other week during summer camp (total of 5 Xs). The Rec Cen is also agreeable to working with us on a Junior Naturalist Program later in the year.
Winnie stated that the Senior Program director at the Rec Cen has agreed to let us do a program in March, April and May. She suggested three possible programs to him.
There was some discussion regarding tomorrow’s pot luck annual meeting preparations.
Mary Ann discussed the annual report she needs to send off toKerrvilleby mid January. The following positions for 2012 are as follows: President Diane Goodwin, VP Gail McAdoo, Secretary Geri Tease, Treasurer Dee Smith, Training coordinator Wayne Rhoden, Historian Winnie Bowen, Advisors Dustin Coufal from AgriLife and Derrick Wolter from TPWD. Other positions will be filled when the new board takes office.
The board consists of the four elected officers, nine standing committee chairmen and two at large members.
Waynestated thatBerrySpringsParkwants to create and develop a trail beyond the I-35 landmark. They will be looking for both advice and help.
Waynealso said that a Fire Wise training session is coming up Jan 10-12 at the AgriLife building. The fee for the Forest Service sponsored event is $50. Proper landscaping around your home as well as common hazards will be covered in the workshop.
At 2: 50 PMwith no further business, Dave made a motion with a 2nd byWayne to adjourn.
Respectfully submitted,
Winnie Bowen, sec’y
11-14-11
NOVEMBER BOARD MEETING
President, MaryAnn Melton, called the meeting to order at1:00PMwith 10 members present.
October board minutes were approved as posted on the websites with a motion by Gerry and a 2nd byWayne.
Pat stated the minimum number have registered for the Project Wild workshop on November 30 The time frame is 9-4 with a brown bag lunch.
Deestated that the invertebrate training for theRiveryParkis scheduled for10 AMSaturday.
The policy for new member certification was approved by a motion by Wayneand a 2nd by Al.
Diane stated the difference between education and advocacy. Education is a good word but avoid using mandate or advocate. She also stated the website problems have been corrected.
MaryAnn brought up that a meeting needs to be set to finish the 1-year action plan. Jim made a motion that the board delegate authority to the committee to pass the one-year action plan. Motion was 2nd byWayne. Motion carried. After checking that the AgriLife room is available the meeting to finish such plan was set for1PM November 22.
MaryAnn stated the Annual Court Interpretation luncheon is December 6 at the AgriLife building. Several M N members will attend. MaryAnn will put touch ups on the display board and we will set up a table for show & tell.
MaryAnn and Wayne reported on the river cleanup at Old Settler’s Park a week ago. Only three members showed to work and the Round Rock volunteers never showed.
MaryAnn talked about our kid initiative. She attended several kid programs at the annual meeting. We discussed the use of Junior Naturalist vs Junior Master Naturalist. She wants to further define our possibilities with Eric Nuner at theGeorgetownParksand Rec.
Waynestated that 4 have signed for the 2012 class. Discussion followed for a media blitz in all local papers in January with articles and pictures vs just small hidden blurbs.
Jim invited all to the Audubon meeting this evening.
MaryAnn stated we need to query members who may have worked for companies that give grants to various non profits and pursue any possibilities.
With no further business Al made a motion, 2nd byDee, to adjourn.
Respectfully submitted,
Winnie Bowen
October BOARD MINUTES 10-10-2011
Vice President, Dee Smith, in the absence of president, MaryAnn Melton, opened the October board meeting at1:00PM.
The September board minutes were approved as corrected with a motion by Diane, 2nd by Sterlin.
Deestated that he and Dave had updated the Quicken treasurer report on the computer.
Al passed around a cumulative list of volunteer and AT hours for everyone to check. The chapter has put in 1254 volunteer hours and 410 AT hours.
Deepassed around the signup sheet for various volunteer opportunities coming up.
Diane reported that the Rivery project now has been organized and that Geri Tease is taking over the coordination effort for that project. Jim is going to do the birding segment and will monitor once a week for a year to receive accurate counts. He also will move his monthly bird walk through the rec center fromSan GabrielParkto the Rivery. Other activities at the Rivery include invertebrate count, removal of invasive plants and a wild flower count of kinds of plants and when they bloom.
Betty reported Project Wild is in place for November 30. There have been some glitches on the website for registration with some being successful in the endeavor and others rejected. The training session will count for 6 AT hours.
Deementioned that the details for the park and Rec Cen activities are scant. Jim is on that board and will try to get more information at their next meeting. There was some discussion about doing a few projects well versus spreading ourselves too thin and doing poorly. Although we wish to expand our services we need more involved people to do so and need to move slowly in such endeavors.
Dee and Diane reported that the nominating committee has come up with the following slate for next year: Diane Goodwin, president; Gail McAdoo, vice president, Geri Tease, secretary; and Dee Smith, treasurer.
Jim reported he has been approached about having an article done in the monthly Focus Magazine. Wayne has been interviewed for the same in the View Magazine slated to be printed in January.
There was considerable discussion about our November and December meeting days as they fall right at the holidays. It was decided to bring to the general meeting about
eliminating the November meeting and moving the December meeting to December 13. Winnie had Donna reserve the AgriLife room for December 13 as a safety measure until the general members vote on the change.
Winnie reported that the AgriLife room has been booked for 2012 for Thursday afternoon meetings in January, March, and May and evening meeting for February, April and June and for evening meetings July through December. Before this meeting ended she also had Donna book the room for the 2nd Monday afternoon of each month for the board meetings. In February, because of voting, the board meeting will be on the Tuesday following the 2nd Monday.
Betty reported that theHelpingHandsHealingLandproject is well under way. People will meet October 22 at Dennis Perz’s home to assemble seed ball kits that will be distributed to schools and organizations for children to make the seed balls. The Native American Seed Company is assembling wildflower seeds specific to theBastroparea as it has a different eco-system that neighboring areas.
Al reported that with the economy and cut backs, there will be a fee for most ranger programs in the parks and for programs presented by AgriLife and Extension services. Free is going to become extinct.
At 2:15, with no further business to discuss, Al made a motion, 2nd by Sterlin, to adjourn.
Respectfully submitted,
Winnie Bowen, sec’y
SEPTEMBER BOARD MEETING 9-12-11
President, Maryann Melton, called the meeting to order at1:00 PMwith 12 members present.
The August minutes were approved as posted on the sites with a motion by Dee, 2nd Diane.
Dave stated the bank balance is $ 2153.60
MaryAnn asked Diane to present the draft for certification of students after completing the class.
Much discussion followed with many views expressed. After 45 minutes it was decided to form a committee to consider all that had been said and to redraft the proposal. Diane, Dave and Ben agreed to serve on this committee and present a redraft at the October meeting.
Wayne presented a budget estimate for the new class expenses. The class fee of $150 just about covers expenses. Gail mentioned that the $10 fee for each background check should be included and Winnie questioned that perhaps the speaker fee might have to be increased. It is possible that the future class fee will have to be increased. MaryAnn will check with Donna to see if she has a list of the last background check done. Needed to be renewed every 3 years we need to keep good records on this. Background check form will be included in the registration packet.
The class dates are March 6–May 15, 2012. The class on the week of the chapter regular meeting will be a field trip on Saturday to avoid any time conflict. Wayne will post the class information on the websites shortly.
Diane reported that she has had a meeting with Eric Nuner from Georgetown Parks and Recreation and the supervisor of Environmental Services who maintain the Rivery pond. The service people only visit the site once a month and are looking for help maintaining the site. Possible activities include cleanup, removal of invasive plants, interpretative signage. Dee asked if we could have a presence at the site with a MN sign or tag on to other signage. The board did not take any action on approving the site as a chapter project until further information and meetings with the city people involved.
MaryAnn reported on Kids Projects. She has had conversation with Eric Nuner about hooking into kid programs already on the calendar at the rec center. A committee will meet with him and other involved persons to see where we can fit in and help with nature programs for children already involved. The Rec Center magazine is printed twice a year.
Betty reported that she has had contact with Kiki Cori, administrator of Project Wild. A workshop has been set for November 30 at AgriLife 8-5PM. The class is 6 hours (9-4) plus lunch. She would like between 15-30 people. The cost is $25 per person. Several ideas for lunch were explored and it was the consensus that a brown bag lunch would satisfy everyone. After discussion regarding the fee Wayne made a motion for the chapter to subsidize the cost at the rate of $10/person. Barry seconded and the motion carried.
MaryAnn asked those attending NPSOT and the special meeting with Sue Wiseman to report on the Helping Hands project underway to help restore burned areas from the terrible recent fires.
Betty explained the project started out to help Bastrop and then grew like Topsy to include all the fire areas in Central Texas. The committee is looking for donations to cover materials to have children make seed balls. Both the clay and seeds are expensive. Once funds and materials are available, they are looking for volunteers to assemble packets to be given to schools and youth groups to make the seed balls. Gail and Dee both attended a symposium in Fredericksburg and stated the seeds were $29 from a seed catalog. This brought on discussion of different eco-systems as Bastrop’s is quite different than other areas, Sterling suggested that we pass the hat at the chapter meeting for funds for this project. Gail suggested the treasury match what is collected but the consensus was that this could be dangerous with other anticipated chapter expenses. We will wait further developments and information of this project.
A3:00PMwe took a brief stretch break before continuing on.
Wayne handed out copies of the 5-year plan that the committee drafted. Diane explained to the board the process and the committee’s input was combined and consolidated for the end result.
After reading the draft Dee made a motion, 2nd Sterling, to accept the plan and to present it to chapter members at the monthly meeting.
Diane passed copies of the 1-year Action Plan. Because of time restraints, action on the plan was tabled until next month.
MaryAnn announced that according to the by-laws the past president is chair of the nominating committee. Ben agreed to do so. MaryAnn appointed Diane and Pam (2011 class) to serve with him to come up with a slate for next year. Dave made a motion, 2nd Pat, to accept this committee.
Considerable discussion followed regarding who the board members at large should be and who should appoint them. When all was said and done we will follow the bylaws and have them appointed by the president and try to include one member from the new class. Dee recommended that we encourage new members to serve on committees.
Winnie brought that since AgriLife and A & M sponsor us, the possibility of having our monthly meetings at the AgriLife facility, Discussion followed. Winnie will check availability of the facility.
Wayne suggested we survey members to find out their preference of meeting time afternoon vs evening. MaryAnn will prepare and email such survey. Finding a day will follow.
Wayne reported on a meeting with the new Round Rock Rangers who are looking for help with nature and educational projects. They have set a clean-up day at Old Settlers Park for November 5 with hopes of combining with some volunteers so we can interact and learn exactly what they are looking for and where we may be able to help. Sterling mad a motion, 2nd by Gail,to approve and participate on November 5.
At 4 PMDave made a motion to adjourn, 2nd by Dee.
Respectfully submitted
Winnie Bowen, sec’y
BOARD MEETING 8-8-2011
President, MaryAnn Melton, called the meeting to order at1:00 PMwith 9 members present.
The July minutes were approved as posted on the websites with a motion byWayneand seconded byDee.
Dave reported the bank balance remains the same: 2170.50. He received a check for $10 from AgriLife’s Donna today as overpayment of copies made. Dave reportedDeehad set up an accounting program and taught Dave how to use it. It was also noted that Crakajack has not been paid for the last order of nametags as Walt had not gotten the bill to the treasurer.
Waynestated he is working on a budget for next year’s class so he can come up with a fee that will cover all expenses. He does not think Master Naturalists will be involved with the 10% recovery fee for A & M but will check to make sure. He feels the time is coming when we will have to pay speakers either a fee or mileage to come from A & M for the classes. He will have the registration form ready to post on the web in September. He has a tentative schedule for the 2012 class and hopes to work in more field trips.
Winnie thankedWaynefor all the time he commits and does to make the class a success.
MaryAnn asked what we wanted to do for Sonny Arnold who is retiring this month. Ben mentioned that Michelle had emailed that Sonny would be honored at the state meeting. After discussion it was decided to make a gift of $100 in a personalized card using the group picture that was taken at our charter meeting last July and to make the gift directly to Sonny rather than lumping it in with all the other chapters. Ben made the motion with a second by Gail.
Jim Rodgers is retiring this month also from theWilliamsonCountyParksand Recreation Department. Waynesaid that he had already been showered with all kinds of kudos and gifts. After much discussion Ben made a motion to make Jim an honorary member of the Goodwater Master naturalist Chapter.Waynewill create a certificate to be awarded to Jim at our December pot luck meeting.
MaryAnn stated that she would like to get the Tenner program started before the end of the year. She shared a proposal from the Tenner committee. Dave suggested field trips be included when possible.Deesuggested that after a Tenner program had been given to have a couple people at the next meeting to do a bit of a refresher. It was decided thatDee, the program chair, would schedule Winnie to start the program with her wildflower program. Ben made the motion and the second by Gerry.
MaryAnn stated the red Poppy registration is not yet on the website. Winnie stated she would see either Marcy or Carrie the next day and would check the status.
MaryAnn reported the Diane and Walt have come up with a start on a policy for those who don’t finish the initial certification requirements in the 15 months allowed. Since both are out of town any discussion was tabled until September.
MaryAnn stated she wants to get a start on the 5-year plan before the end of the month. We have talked about this for 5 months now and everyone either wants to get started and get it done or scrap it. August 26 was set 1-5 PM. MaryAnn secured the room for that afternoon.
There was a discussion on how to get members of the 2011 class to attend meeting.Waynewill email the mentors asking that they email and encourage their mentee to come to the next meeting. Many of that class are working and we need to poll them to see if that is the reason they are not attending meetings. Winnie suggested once the guidelines for certification are written, she suggested they be e-mailed to all members of that class.
MaryAnn mentioned the state meeting is October 21-23, but that registration is not until September. She is going to try to get a block of rooms at Mo Ranch for us.
Waynestated he had received a letter from Wade Crimbring and Reshard Durdley stating they are the new Round Rock park rangers. They would like to have a meeting to see how we might fit into their program.
It was decided to keep the 2012 class on Tuesday afternoons. On the chapter regular meeting day we will have it so all can attend, andWaynewill try to schedule a field trip the Saturday of those weeks.
With no further business Winnie made a motion, seconded bySterlingto adjourn at2:45so a a special off the record meeting could take place to take care of a problem that has risen.
Respectfully submitted,
Winnie Bowen, sec’y
JUNE BOARD MEETING
6-13-2011
President MaryAnn Melton called the meeting to order at 1:00PM with 11 members present.
May board minutes were approved as posted with a motion by Sterlin and a second by Diane.
Dave reported a bank balance of 2128.50.
Wayne reported on the 2011 class wrap up. One person has a make up to do and one person reported he thoroughly enjoyed the class but was doubtful about being able to certify. Evaluations revealed all were happy with the class. Discussion followed on how to improve class next year with perhaps more field trips, shorter than 4-hour sessions, pros and cons of daytime, evening or Saturday classes and the possibility of breaking the class time and including a light lunch at noon time.
Winnie stated she was unhappy with the short regular meeting before the class started , feeling that it sent the wrong message to the new people regarding what our normal meetings are like and a feeling of being cheated for the older members. Our last real meeting was in February and so it has been four months since we really have been together. Gail reported that in her previous chapter the theme was Food, Fun, Fellowship at their meetings with people being able to socialize during a light meal.
Sterlin suggested we might have more information on mentor responsibility, maybe have a short training session on what is expected. Winnie suggested that mentors be assigned earlier and that maybe a half-hour meeting of mentor and mentee at the very beginning of the first class day might set the stage for good communication.
MaryAnn listed the upcoming events for the year that people might be interested in volunteering for and questioning if we might want to be involved as a chapter project in some. She talked about the bat interpretation orientation held earlier in June. Discussion seemed to think that the bat interpretation should be individual volunteer rather than a chapter project. Some discussion as to whether events such as Red Poppy Days is appropriate –those in favor think it good publicity and recruiting opportunities.
Wayne announced that Berry Springs Park will have a pot luck and work day on October 11, 2011.
MaryAnn stated that she and Jim Hailey will be doing three bird informational meetings in Hutto this summer: Nesting Birds on 6/23, Fall and Winter birds 7/21 and Hawks and Owls 8/18.
MaryAnn showed activity boxes for programs so one can pick it up and go and have all the info and materials needed for the presentation.
Diane sought ideas of how we want to handle people who do not get certified in the allowable 15 months. The goal is to work individually with those who have problems meeting the commitment. MaryAnn commented the goal is to have a procedure in place for how people can certify if they miss the original window. Diane also put out a plea for information and articles for the newsletter.
MaryAnn and Wayne both reported on the cost of having brochures printed. We have several which are ready for printing and distribution at various events. Due to cost, it was suggested that we have the chapter brochure professionally printed and informational brochures printed either by AgriLife or in-house. Board members made suggestions and corrections for the present chapter brochure.
MaryAnn reported she had an email from Susan Blackledge re: the Texas Amphibian Watch taking place in June through the rest of the year. Dates and times is posted on the TPWD website.
The 5-year masterplan and goals is on hold until July as Walt is out of town.
MaryAnn reported that one transfer in to the chapter has requested to be removed.
Wayne reported the background check forms are ready for mailing and will check on the one form holding up the process.
Diane presented a wrap-up account of Archeology day. Discussion followed re: creating a form that will be filled out after each such event. That goal to be put in the Goal and Planning session.
MaryAnn suggested we start opening our general meetings to the public. Dave made a motion to do so with a second by Sterlin. We’ll start in June as the Control Burn speaker should be interesting to a lot of people.
At 2:55 Dee made a motion to adjourn, second by Pat.
Respectfully submitted,
Winnie Bowen, sec’y
MAY BOARD MEETING 5-9-11
President MaryAnn Melton opened the meeting at 1:00 PM with 14 members present.
Diane reported that during Earth Week there were 8-9 unmanned tables at the Georgetown library. She replenished supplies on our table daily. The MN table had a tri-fold poster board as well as brochures. She also has assembled a list of websites that have flyers pertinent and available to us. She will post the list on the site.
HUTTO LAKE PARK: Ben reported that the Hutto Lake Park opening was well organized. There were 13 chapter members who participated. Gail reported that the community and children were involved in the park development. Mike Hemker, the park manager, gave Master Naturalists good coverage and kudos for our participation. Walt noted that the park activities were not posted on the Hutto website. He suggested that perhaps in the future we need to notify the area HOAs to get information out to the residents. He also noted there was a lot of interest expressed in the park and the events of the day. The majority of the youngsters were interested in fishing. When preparing flyers we should seek free printing with us recognizing the printer that does the job.
TAYLOR ZESTFEST: Betty reported that they had a great display board for their first Master Naturalist display table at this festival. They had pictures of the Taylor prairie restoration at the Taylor Regional Park and the opportunity for visitors to make seed balls. Their location would have been better if it had been nearer to the kiddy play area.
GRANGER LAKE FEST: MaryAnn reported that the festival was not at the lake so any angler program would not have been appropriate. She also noted that before an event we need to know our audience and that we should have booths for adults and children and use the appropriate one for each event.
Walt stated that we need to have a volunteer coordinator for each chapter event to remove the burden from only one or two people.
Diane stated that Native Plant Week will be held at the library in the fall, probably in October and will consist of unmanned booths the same as was done for Earth Week.
Initial certification time frames have not been definitely established yet. Diane and Walt will work on the criteria.
We need to have volunteer opportunities in all areas of the county.
Walt is to come up with the 5-year planning format and set dates to get this process started. He will email those who have volunteered to serve on that committee.
Dave will talk to Al about a letter to get the 501c3 business established at various frequently used stores.
The minutes of the April meeting were approved with a motion by Wayne and a second by Sterlin.
In preparation of starting a JMN program next year Walt volunteered to contact TPWD about getting them to come to Georgetown to conduct a Project Wild training session. Sterlin’s motion was seconded by Diane.
MaryAnn stated that bat training is available for volunteers to work the McNeil bridge in Round Rock at dusk during the summer. She will contact the person, Diane, regarding a date for the training. Dee’s motion was seconded by Dave.
Diane stated that the April Newsletter is up on the website as well as AT opportunities and the meeting minutes. Some of the site’s problems have been solved, some continue to exist.
MaryAnn will send the file for certification certificates to Wayne as the last class in next week, May 17.
Wayne noted that seven of the new students have made every class. Several have missed only once class but still will have completed the required 40 hours. Only one is in doubt of finishing. He has checked with other area MN classes for possible make up times, but most have completed their classes. Some of the new class members have been doing volunteer time. Wayne will order a cake for commencement of the 2011 class.
Our regular meeting will be a week early as it will follow the last day of class. It will be an ice cream social and will MaryAnn will send out an email with details.
Wayne stated that he had been contacted by Mark Klym about doing a program for Williams elementary school on May 25 during their science fair. He is going to do beneficial insects. He has been unsuccessful in making contact with him to see what else he might need.
MaryAnn has had an email from Jim Rodgers about signage information regarding snakes, good and bad, to discourage visitors to Berry Spring Park from killing all snakes that are seen. She will help him with that and offered anyone else interested to also help.
Gail mentioned for future discussion that she thinks four hours classes are too long. She would like to see a 10-12 class, lunch break and a 1-3 class. She also stated she thinks having the regular meeting beforeclass time gives the wrong impression to new students and short changes regular members. The opportunity for the two classes to mix was a good idea but in reality did not work.
With no further business to come before the board the meeting was adjured with a motion by David and seconded by Walt at 3:10 PM.
Respectively submitted,
Winnie Bowen, sec’y
APRIL BOARD MEETING 4-11-11
President, MaryAnn Melton, opened the meeting at 1:05 with 12 members present plus Derrick, our TPWD advisor present. The first order of business was to approve the February and March board minutes. Al with a second by Diane made the motion to approve the February minutes as written and posted. Dee with a second by Gail made the motion to accept the march minutes as written and posted.
Dave was absent but Dee gave Gail all the audit documentation. Gail questioned where the log book was as Dave does not seem to have it. Winnie stated that apparently an October check has not cleared. She will check further with the bank and notify Crackajack of her findings. Ben questioned if the Quicken program had been purchased and Dee stated he had it and will get it set up for use.
Al had a copy of the final paperwork for our 401c3 status. The secretary will maintain the original and the treasurer and AgriLife will maintain copies.
MaryAnn brought up membership status for those who have not completed the needed hours for certification. State recommends we have a policy for dealing with these situations. After much discussion it was determined that since the state does not have any specific policy that Diane and Walt will work on an application form to follow after the specified time has run out so we can know why the commitments were not meet and what plan the individual has to complete them.
Diane reported that Archeology day was a wild success with 250 children attending on Friday and over 1000 people on Saturday. About 10 MN were on the grounds in various capacities for this event. The state as requested in such cases that one person be delegated leader and that that person only report the people impacted, acres and trails etc covered. Everyone else is to report his hours only. Walt suggested that we might want to think about one or two signature booths/projects that we might want to do in the future.
MaryAnn reported that 180 people turned out for the Hutto Trash Off event and that our MN collected four large bags of trash as part of the 16 tons collected.
Gail suggested that we delegate a person to prepare a short blurb after each event with information for the scrapbook so we can keep up to date.
Diane stated the website has been upgraded and that has caused additional problems.
Wayne stated there have been a couple of class schedule changes but all is going well. He handed out a new class rooster list. He volunteered to keep and maintain a master email list. Wayne also stated that the HLMN chapter has requested to join our group at the Gault site for makeup for some of their members. He is checking the space limitations at the site. Wayne also stated he has all the new class photo releases and gave them to the secretary.
MaryAnn stated that many of the inquiries from the state website did not pan out for us this year. She also reported that the request for help at the Red poppy festival did not fall within our guidelines so no volunteer time could be counted.
Diane is going to check with the library regarding Earth Week un- manned displays. It was also suggested that we might think about doing things at other libraries in Wilco.
MaryAnn said the opening of the new park in Hutto will be May 7. They have asked us for 9-12 people to help with the Angler program and to man bird watch stations. Gail made the motion with a second from Ben that we participate in this event as a chapter. It was noted that Granger Lakefest is the same day and that this year we will forgo that event.
MaryAnn reported from the two-day New Chapter training: The Tonkawa (Bell Co) chapter would like to partner with us in the future in some event, suggest criminal background checks be done before the class even starts in case there is a problem with anyone, some chapters refunds $50 to member after they have certified, commencement vs graduation, holding classes in different cities promote ownership in chapter, breaking down the big note book makes it easier to carry, the book Sand County Almanac makes a good gift, take photos of speakers for scrapbook, budgeting for speaker expenses if a good idea, state has brochures that can be customized, grant writing training, can do a 2-day fundraiser a year without paying taxes, opening meeting to public can be a recruiting tool. Walt added that the state is working on a system where one can log hours in on line. He also stated that not signing the liability waiver is not an option. The waiver is not negotiable and the state pays any fees.
Jim suggest we develop a speaker’s bureau.
MaryAnn brought up how to implement creating our long and short term plans. Jim suggested a JMN class, but MaryAnn stated there are no statewide resources. Jim said he saw a textbook in the valley. Winnie suggested a retreat for the committee. Walt vehemently disagreed. Diane suggest a compromise with a beginning all day session followed by Walt’s 4-hour sessions.
The room was apparently need so we adjourned at 3:10PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Winnie Bowen, sec’y
MARCH BOARD MEETING 3-14-2011
President, Mary Ann Meltonbrought the meeting to order at 1:07 with 11 members present.
Wayne reported that TPWD has not responded to emails, calls, so he will do that program for the new class. Mary Ann and Walt will help him with a segment each. Mentors have not yet been assigned for the new class members.
Walt and Mary Ann plan to attend the New Chapter Training Session in Kerrville the end of March. (Al has a conflict>)
MaryAnn reported that the March and April regular meetings will be held the first one-half hour of the new class session and will be short. The regular May meeting will be held at 3PM on May 17—the last day of class and a week before the normal regularly scheduled monthly meeting.
Winnie stated she thought the coffee for the new class days should be paid for by the chapter, and all agreed. There was some discussion about buying a coffee urn for use at the church. However, Walt stated there are coffee pots at that facility and we should be able to use them. He will check to make sure this is the case.
Wayne has most of the background check applications and is anxious to mail them off. He will check with David Skinner and Pat Clendenden to see when their checks were last done and if needed add them to the list. Since Dave is getting ready to leave town he gave a check to Mary Ann to use n his absence.
Bonnie reported that 8 members showed up for the prairie restoration seed planting in Taylor and that the process went quickly and well. Gail will send pictures to MaryAnn for posting on the web sites. The agent relayed a lot of grass information to the group while working.
Discussion took place regarding the goal list that was assembled during the regular meeting. Wayne was nominated and accepted to chair a power point library of programs that can be given anytime anywhere. A flash drive will be a good way to store these programs. Sterlin stated he would like to have a power point training session so all who wish can learn how to use the program. Wayne, Walt or MaryAnn could all teach it.
Discussion regarding a Junior MN class. Mary Ann stated there is no sanctioned class, but that several chapters have developed their own. Sterling stated that at the annual meeting someone from College Station had such info. Will check this out.
There was a lot of discussion of 5-year, long range, short range and 12-18 month goal programs. Walt volunteered to facilitate a strategic plan committee to come up with such plans. He stated that such effort is a team effort. Winnie suggested we set a dead line of 6 months to accomplish this task. Gail made the motion, seconded by Sterlin that walk be the chair and that Al, Ben and Dee who are absent be given a chance to also serve on this committee. Mary Ann passed a paper for those interested in serving to sign.
MaryAnn tackled the calendar next with known upcoming events in the county. Diane made a motion with a second by Gerry to participate in Hutto’s Trash Off day in early April.
Gerry made a motion with a second by Sterlin to participate in Earth day.
Sterlin made a motion with a second by Gail to do a booth for Taylor’s Zest Fest in early May.
Dave made a motion with a second by Wayne to have a booth at Granger Lake Fest in early May.
Walt made the motion with a second by Dave to have a booth and to help at Family Camp at Berry Spring Park in September.
A motion was made by Gail and seconded by Dave to participate in Chisholm Trail in October.
Mary Ann stated she understood the Red Poppy Festival in April is full, but will check to make sure. Gerry made a motion and seconded by wane to allow MaryAnn to book festival space that has an entry fee up to $50.
Wayne will be teaching at the Spring Fling in Taylor on March 26.
Both Valerie and Lennie have developed activities for Archeology Day at Berry Spring Park on March 25-26.
Sterling made a motion, seconded by pat to Adjourn at 3;15.
Respectively submitted
Winnie Bowen, Sec’y
FEBRUARY BOARD MEETING
2-14-11
President MaryAnn Melton called the meeting to order at 1:00PM with 9 members present. She reported that there are 10 people registered for the March class and that nearly all the instructors are confirmed. There was discussion that we need to get a bit more publicity to increase the size of the class. Catalogs were circulated to find and decide on honorariums for the instructors and meeting speakers. At the end of the meeting it was voted to order logo knapsacks.
Dee stated the financial audit is finished. After discussion Diane made a motion, seconded by Ben, to purchase Quicken. Dee will help Dave install and set up the program for future use.
The January board minutes were approved as posted on the sites.
A facility for the Angler Education on March 12 is not yet finalized. MaryAnn is continuing to run down a couple of possibilities that will also provide a rain option. After discussion Dave made a motion, second by Gail, that MaryAnn can spend up to $50 if necessary to secure a facility for the event.
MaryAnn stated that New Chapter training is scheduled in Hunt, TX for March 30-31. That time will count as AT hours. MaryAnn and AL are planning to attend.
MaryAnn and Dee reported on a meeting with Hutto Parks and Recreation Director. Trash Off day will be held the first week in April and a tree planting on March 12. Extending the Brushy Creek trail is a possible future event. MaryAnn has created a master bird list for the park.
MaryAnn would like to create a calendar of events of Williamson Country annual events. Many things were named and all are to bring in specific dates to the general meeting. The library is having a spring break art day on March 14. Before we can commit communication needs to be made with the library to see if space is available. Then we must decide if and what we might want to do as a chapter. MaryAnn will make the contact.
Archeology Day is March 25-26 at Berry Spring Park. MaryAnn will contact the park, the museum and a member who may have made a commitment to see what is expected of us for this event.
There was discussion about booth materials ie: canopy, table, chairs. It was decided to hold off any purchases until an event is coming up.
Meeting adjourned at 3:00PM
Respectfully submitted,
Winnie Bowen, sec’y
BOARD MEETING 1-10-2011
President MaryAnn Melton called the meeting to order promptly at 1:00PM with 12 members present.
Wayne reported on the upcoming class. 9 are presently registered with one other check on the way. One member is from Austin as CAMN’s class is full. He requested that the hospitably committee supply the refreshments for the first day of class when a sign in sheet will be passed for future classes.
He reported on the instructors lined up for the classes. Background check applications will be filled out on the first class day.
Walt will keep track of vol hours for the new class.
MaryAnn will assemble a picture roster of all members and class participants. Wayne stated that Bob Whitney had stated when one signs on for the class that it is understood that pictures re: chapter activities may be posted on the website and or posters.
Journals for the new class members will be 5 X 7 spiral-bound with the MN logo on the cover.
Assembly of text books probably will be the week before class begins & will be announced as help will be needed. Honorariums probably will be coasters.
Considerable discussion took place re: signs for the AgriLife facility. Walt volunteered to make a double sided sign for the street and entrance and signs for doors.
Dave reported our bank balance is $472.51 and that monies for the new class have not yet been deposited. MaryAnn will go to the bank to sign in place of retiring president Ben Marrou.
MaryAnn requested that the annual financial audit be done in January. The audit committee consists of the V P, secretary, one other member and Derrick, our advisor.
Much time was spent on goal setting and brainstorming for the following year. Also for thinking about 3-5-year long range planning. Walt stated such plans help a group prioritize objectives. Many good ideas were presented and some of them were: create on-going projects that vary in content and that are county-wide, develop interpretive programs, present display table to public at various civic and city functions. (Poppyfest, Zestfest, Hutto Ole Time Days, Spring Fling etc) Prepare programs that can be presented to the public on some sort of a regular time table, as monies become available we need to think about a table and Easy-up tent. Create a book club of naturalist books within the chapter and other small group interest activities, develop tenner programs, assemble a reference book list, develop a signature annual fund raiser.
It was agreed that we all come to the table with various skills and interests and that our activities should reflect that.
Sterlin elaborated on his angler training at TPWD. This time of year is a good time for training as other outdoor activities are lessened in winter months. TPWD is willing to present the chapter the 3-4 hour training. Class size is limited to minimum/maximum numbers of 15-30. This program could be ideal for our location and available facilities and could involve people. Al made a motion, second by Gail, to pursue training , possibly on March 12 so new class members could have the opportunity to attend. The church would be ideal because if inclement weather we would have access to the gym. Walt will check availability of the church.
MaryAnn explained about Twin Springs Park. One needs to be train to get into the park. The park is approximately 2 miles west of Williams Drive HEB off #3405. The park covers 170 acres and presently has only a in-progress walking trail. Sterlin took a training there and worked on the trail the previous week. MaryAnn has had contact with the proper people and will arrange a training for interested chapter members.
Before adjourning at 3PM, MaryAnn thanked Ben for his leadership and the chapter accomplishments during our first year.
Respectively submitted,
Winnie Bowen, sec’y
