EAGC General Meeting Minutes Feb. 15, 2024

Morgera Room, Stratham Fire Dept.

The meeting was brought to order by the President, at 10:00am. Attendance: 32 Members, 6 guests

President Pat N

• Welcomed all and thanked hosts for refreshments.
• Nominating Committee: Pat N, Vicki B, Lee C, Ginny T, and LuAnn F will meet and present in May
• Huge thanks to Nickky and her committee for getting the Membership Survey written (23 iterations) and mailed to members
• Patti E has agreed to present a program to the Stratham “Munch and Learn”

VP Vicki B

• Linda S – Status of 2024 Scholarship
• The instruction booklet for our microphone is missing????

Recording Secretary Lee C.

• Accept Jan Minutes. Motion to accept Kathryn J, seconded by LuAnn, unanimously accepted.

Treasurer Ginny T,

• Current balance $8080.01 Income $12.50 Expenses $40.00
• 2024-25 Committee budget requests NLT 22 Feb
• 38 Surveys returned, results to be shared in March

Communications/LuAnn F and Patti Elwell

• Looking for a member to help with emails
• Facebook: Please share photos and information with Patti E.

Awards: Carmen G

– Committee needs to re-evaluate the award criteria

Civic Beautification/Linda S

• American Independence Museum – meeting in the planning

Design and Programs/Ann H

• May Program “Movies Make Me Bloom” has 6 presenters lined up
• Easter Floral Design Workshop Thursday, March 28th 2-4pm Stratham Muni Ctr, Members free, Guest $5

Environmental & Conservation/Betsy V. and Linda V de C

• Mini-grant poster at Exeter Library, soon to be at Stratham Library. Requests to be rec’d by 4/6, Awarded 4/20
• Display and presentation “Predatory Insects”, plus word search activity

Horticulture Ann H

• Kathryn J Hort Moment “Avocados”.

Hospitality

• June Luncheon June 19th at Abenaki CC, Committee will meet tomorrow with club staff.

Membership Nickky J, Jane J

• Nickky and Jan will not be returning to chair next year – please consider this post

Ways and Means/ Johann StL

• Promise Tree events: Lee C- Presentation of her Asian collections; Vicki B “Meet, Munch and Moot”
• Yard and Bake Sale Stratham Community Center, Room A; Set-up 5/10 2-5pm; Sale 5/11 7a-1p. Planning meeting immediately after this meeting.

No items submitted from the floor.

Follow Up Actions

• Microphone instruction book??
• Banquet menu and cost -Paige

Decisions Made

• 0

Motion to adjourn by Linda VdC, Seconded by Mel M, All in favor. Adjourned at 10:23

Program: “More Blossoms, Less Mowing” by Brian McPherson

Submitted by Pat N.

EAGC Board Meeting – Jan. 4, 2024

Senior Room, Stratham Muni Ctr, Stratham NH
Meeting was called to order at 9:40 am. 12 Members in attendance

President Pat N

• Thanks for all the participation in the Yuletide Fair, Holiday community decorations
• Successful Holiday Luncheon – thanks to Nancy and her Committee
• Member Survey F/U with Membership
• Disperse old “kitchen box” supplies no longer needed. Hot water pot and cups.

Vice-President Vicki B.

• Jan program Garlic
• Programs for 24-25 are set
• Please record your inventory items
• Linda S will coordinate the EAGC Scholarship

Secretary Lee C.

• Nov Minutes: Motion to accept by Vick B, seconded by LuAnn F – Motion carried.

Treasurer Ginny T

• Balance report $9,643.30 as of 12/30/23
• Report on Holiday Fair net – $1,009.00 ( Income $1,625- Expenses $616)

Communication Coordinator LuAnn

• New calendar on website being updated
• Please contact Jennifer for use of social media for increased PR

Awards Carmen G

• Planning Comm. Mtg in March to work on criteria and timing.
• Group tabled idea of monetary awards at present
• How to facilitate use of PR with Jennifer

Civic Beautification Linda S

• Veterans’ Garden – Mel McG will take the lead
• Muni Ctr entry – Lee, Ellen J and Ellen’s daughter will continue
• AIM donated poinsettias – distributed to garden team members
• Wiggins Library, again. Pat will talk with Librarian and seek out DPW POC for $
• Wiggins Historical Society has requested EAGC provide holiday greens – accepted

Design Ann H

• May Meeting “Movies in Bloom” Has 4 volunteers – would like 1 more
• Spring Workshop, March?

Environment and Conservation Betsy V,.

• Jan presentation – Caterpillars
• Mini-Grant application being revised, PR being prepared

Horticulture Ann H.

• Jan Hort article –Linda VdC

Hospitality Nancy D, Paige C

• Holiday Luncheon 2024 will be Dec 5th at WCC. $500 deposit request and accepted
• Paige is working on June Luncheon at Abenaki CC. Request for $1,000 toward food deposit made and accepted. Paige and Ginny will meet with staff later. Plant Sale – consider focusing on house plants.

Membership Nickky J, Jane J

• Member survey discussion

Ways and Means Johann St.L

• Confirm EAGC participation in 2024 Yuletide Fair, Nov 23, 2024, a lte date!
• Promise Tree – Pat N will cover for Jan meeting
  o Betsey’s Yankee Swap a success
  o Need to seek more events to help with socializing
• 50/50 Raffle – put basket near food table in versus passing?
• Yard Sale need dates
  o Do we need new theme? Christmas items/ Kitchen?
  o Plants Sale
  Need to investigate about participation in Bake Sale at Nov 5th . polling sites.

Diane Smith, Program Asst. for Stratham Parks and Rec visited us. Spoke about the new “Munch and Learn” program. Requesting the Club provide a speaker/topic for a 45–60-minute presentation. Food is provided!

Motion to adjourn by Ann H, Seconded by Ginny T. Vote unanimous. Adjourned at 10:55am

Respectfully submitted by,
Lee C, Recording Secretary

Actions Taken
Affirmative votes to send $1,000 check to Abenaki CC deposit, for food, Spring 2024 Luncheon.
Affirmative vote to send $500 check to Wentworth CC deposit for room for Dec 2024 Luncheon
Nickky J will chair committee to develop Membership Survey for Feb meeting
Accepted doing holiday green decorations for Stratham Historical Society
Offer EAGC’s hot water pot at “Sale Table” Donate cups to Senior room

Follow-Up Actions
Linda S contact SST, possible look at expanding to UNH, review criteria
Pat N – secure dates for Yard Sale and Spring Workshop with Stratham admin
Pat – open discussion with Stratham and Exeter re: bake sale at Nov polling sites
Nickky Membership Survey meeting – Survey for distribution at Feb meeting or mail?
Pat N find speaker for Stratham’s Munch and Learn session
Pat N talk with Wiggins Library about parking lot side garden and DPW

EAGC Board Meeting Minutes – November 2, 2023

Stratham, Stratham Municipal Center, Senior Room
Meeting was called to order at 9:40am. 13 members in attendance.

President Pat N.

• Welcome. There is no Dec Board Meeting – Ways and Means may decide to have a Lessons Learned post-fair date.
• Shared that there have been undercurrents of dissatisfaction among members, even long-standing active ones, related to the club being less friendly, environment/meetings being less conducive to socialization. Vicky/VP/Programs stated that she is experiencing a push for more program content. Active discussion followed. Will f/u in Jan.

V.P./ Programs Vicki B

• please update your inventory list. List passed at meeting
• Microphone used at Oct meeting was well received.

Secretary Lee C.

• Sept and Oct Board Minutes passed around for approval. Motion to accept by Carmen, seconded by Nancy D. Accepted unanimously.

Treasurer Ginny T

• Reported checkbook balance of $8,654.70. Income $923, primarily from luncheon
• Awards Committee exceeded budget by $143, Motion to approved expenses accepted unanimously.

Communication coordinator LuAnn F

• Working on finding new program for our websites calendar.
• Send photos of activities to her and Patti /Facebook

Awards Carmen G

• October Awards Program went smoothly. Identified issues with program: challenges getting member involvement, moving program to Sept next year, change criteria (pocket gardens?)

Civic Beautification Linda S

• Team assembled pre-Veterans Day clean-up.
• The Exeter Historical Society decoration contact

Design, Ann H

• reminded board of November 17th 1-5 workshop for the fair and will remind those signed up what they need to bring.
• Will f/u with Wiggins Library on Books in Bloom program.

E & C Betsy V, report submitted

• Nov program is about endangered insects

Horticulture, Ann H

• Hort Moment schedule complete for year

Hospitality, Nancy D, Paige C

• Nancy has 22 luncheon reservations and the cutoff date is November 16. Meal cost is $40.
• Paige reported on Committee meeting for Spring luncheon. PCC out. Discussions on options ranging from members sponsoring tables to changing location to catering to new location, and what to do with plant auction. Room prices range up to $1500. Ginny T is a member of Abenaki CC – that we can use for no fee, plant auction ok.. Board agreed to Abenaki, Ginny will check on June dates available to lock in,

Membership, Meredith S, Nickky J, Jane J.

• Brunch on November 9th for Mentors and Mentees at LuAnn’s home.
• Formalized committee documents and interface process to other committees.
• Discussion over yearbook set-up due to limitations of current software, and future editing to prevent errors/omissions.

Ways and Means, Johann StL

• Chair thanked Susan C. for taking on the Promise Tree. We need to get some events on the calendar.
• Johann and Lee explained fair plans
  o vendor space change, set up for workshop, supply needs, transportation of goods and set up materials.
  o The worker volunteer schedule was passed around at Oct General Meeting, reminder memo will be sent and final appeal at Nov meeting.
  o Pinecone Swag workshop tomorrow, Packaging Amaryllis after Nov Gen Mtg
  o There are EAGC labels available, please price your items.
  o Staging group going to Lee’s after this meeting.
• Promise Tree Susan, out of town
  o general agreement on needing to have more events

Motion to adjourn by LuAnn F, seconded by Jane J. Vote unanimous, meeting adjourned 11 am.

Submitted by,
Lee Cooper, EAGC Secretary

ACTIONS TAKEN:

• Approved over-budget cost for Awards Committee
• Spring Luncheon at Abenaki CC – will confirm dates

ACTIONS PENDING:

• Jan Board – form committee to develop membership survey/questionnaire for recommendations going forward (e.g. #speakers, timing of program, mentoring, pop-up social group/Promise Tree, effect of Covid).
• Inventory update
• New calendar program for website?
• Status of Awards criteria, recommendations going forward.
• Contact Jan C about date for Exeter Historical Society holiday decorations date.
• Yearbook – Do we purchase a new program? Does Max want to continue?

EAGC General Meeting – October 19, 2023

Morgera Room- Stratham Fire Department
Called to order at 10 am by president Pat N 42 members in attendance, plus 4 guests
Pres. Pat N

• Thanked hosting team
• Requests all chairs keep their reports brief, Sept Minutes posted online and available today. Motion made and seconded to accept minutes, unanimously accepted.

VP Vicki B. out of town
Secretary Lee C. Reported May general meeting and September board minutes were being formatted for review and circulation.

Treasurer Ginny reported bank balance of 7,942.42, Monthly report posted at Membership desk.

Communications Coordinator LuAnn F out of town. Patti E in MG class through Dec.

• Requested any photos and info be sent on to them

Civic Beautification Linda S.

• Watch for fall clean up dates

Design Ann H,

• spoke of the November workshop November 18 2 to 6 at the Stratham Municipal Center in conjunction with the Ways and Means Yuletide Fair committee.
• our May program will again be a Books in Bloom themed event.

Environment and Conservation Betsy V

• Short informative and humorous reading on her personal awareness of insects in her environment.

Horticulture Ann H

• Hort Moment – Please visit Carol Chambers informative and beautiful display.

Hospitality Co-Chairs: Carol Mc Hosting; Nancy D. Holiday Luncheon; and Paige C. June Luncheon

• Carol thanked today’s hosts
• Nancy has posted flyer on web for Dec 7 Luncheon, accepting reservations and checks.
• Paige looking at reimagining spring event, committee meeting after today’s general meeting.

Membership Nicky J, Jane J

• Welcomed and introduced 2 new members, Michelle B, and Jenny M
• Announced a Mentor-Mentoree Brunch celebrating the new program Nov 9th at LuAnn’s home

Ways and Means Johann StL

• Yuletide Fair November 18, 9-2 at the Cooperative Middle School. Our big fundraiser of the year – all hands needed. Sign-up Sheets for day of fair workers. Event Co-Chair Lee outlined workshops remaining with sign-up sheets, Oct 27 Pine cone ornaments, Nov 1 Magnolia Pod Angels, Nov 3 – Pine cone swags, and the big flower arrangements workshop Nov 17 1-5. Samples of mini arrangements shown.

Formal meeting closed at 10:25 For Program – Annual Outstanding Garden Winners 2023.

Awards Carmen G.
Carmen introduced her team and described the Awards selection process. Each award was presented by a committee member. A story board of each garden was displayed. Winners were presented with a certificate and a year’s membership in EAGC. Also, a sign is place on site at each garden. Signs were refurbished this year.

Residential Award was made to Elizabeth Niebling of Exeter.
Commercial Award to Inn By The Bandstand (Jamie Lopez) in Exeter.
Lifetime Achievement Award was made to Jack and Carol Femery of Hampton Falls. This was a repeat award in recognition of the continued excellence by these aging gardeners – who do all the work themselves.

Submitted by Lee Cooper, Secretary

EAGC Board Meeting    October 5, 2023 

 Stratham Muni Ctr/Senior Room

Attendance:  Pat N., Vicki B, Lee C, LuAnn F, Betsy V., Johann SL, Linda S, Carmen G, Ann H, Nickky J, Jane Jensen.

Meeting called to order at 9:40am

President/ Pat N

• This will be the site of our monthly Board Meetings for the rest of the 2023-2024 year, unless a member would like to host in their home. The Wiggins Library Room was withdrawn as the library needed it for a children’s reading hour.

VP/ Programs Vicki B

• Discussion about purchasing a microphone for meeting use. The library sound system offered unbalanced sound in the Morgera room. Plan to purchase one for Oct. General Meeting

Recording Secretary/Lee C.

• September minutes not posted as yet, as Lee had sustained a fall.
• Pat N and Vicki B will be posting Missing May and Sept minutes respectively

Treasurer/Ginny T, not present, report submitted

• Current Balance $8,172.64. Expenses $280.22

Communications/LuAnn F

• A potential member contacted us through website concerning the use/updating of the calendar. Will review.
• Patti Elwell is taking the Master Gardener class and will not be at meetings until 2024.

Ways and Means/ Johann StL

• Johann and Lee; Yuletide Fair Nov 18 coming soon! Sign-ups at October meeting.

                We have Spot 7, near entry door 8 in gym; 10’ x 10’ space      

Some craft workshops done, others in progress

Need person to do “staging” at Friday Nov 17 workshop

• Need to revitalize the Promise Tree – especially hosted events to provide time for members to get to know one another

Awards: Carmen G.

• Awards will be announced at the October General Meeting Program, a special lifetime award will be included. A new sign was made.
• This was a very frustrating process this year. Members of the committee didn’t respond to emails for meetings or garden visits, never more than three – and not the same three for each of the 2-3 visits. Disheartening as the chair and not meeting the criteria for the process.
• Discussion of how to improve the situation: more committee involvement, more member garden suggestions, more visits to gardens, possibly change criteria to pocket garden focus, delay viewing of commercial gardens, offer monetary award.
•  

Civic Beautification/Linda S

• Veterans’ Garden – need to organize crew to freshen up for Veteran’s Day.
• American Independence Museum needs to resolve their drainage issues before we can continue with their gardens. Basic cleanup for fall.
• Stratham Muni Center entry – the fall display is done with seasonal items. Everyone agreed it looks great.
• F/U with Jan C for Exeter Historical Society Holiday plans
• Pat N continues with hopes that we can help out Wiggins Library entry way. She will f/u with Librarian and Public Works

Design Ann H

• Design Workshop will be Nov 17 2-5 in the Muni Ctr Room A, we have the room from 1-5. This will be dedicated to doing the arrangements for the Fair

Environmental & Conservation/Betsy V.

• Need 5 minutes for presentation at Oct meeting.

Horticulture Ann H

•  Carol Chambers, will provide the October Moment

Hospitality/reports submitted

• Nancy is finalizing the Christmas Luncheon, info will be posted by the Oct General Meeting
• Paige has gotten feedback from members about the past Spring luncheon. She will be meeting with her committee and interested parties to look for new ideas for our spring event. The cost of venues continues to rise, as does the cost of the catering.
•  

Membership/Nickky J, Jane J

• Membership dues and list are now complete. Marie Doyle has not paid, her entry in book is an error.
• Continue to fine tune the Mentoring program, looking into getting feedback from participants.

Motion to adjourn at 10:42 by LuAnn F, seconded by Vicki B.

Submitted by Lee Cooper, Secretary

Actions and Follow Up

Purchase microphone – already in the budget

Veterans Garden cleanup for Veterans Day

Awards Committee? changes

Wiggins Library entry – spring 2024

Mentor program feedback. Ideas for enhancing “mingling” at meetings

Yuletide Fair focus

Seek Promise Tree events

EAGC General Meeting Sept. 21, 2023

held in the Exeter Congregational Church

Called to order at 10 am by Vice President, Vicki B. Thirty-five members in attendance.
Pres. Pat N – Out of Town
VP Vicki B. Welcomed members and thanked Paige for arranging the meeting location. Future meetings through June are confirmed at the Stratham Fire House Morgera meeting room. Nancy D. was thanked for leading the hospitality team and all were thanked. Thanked the membership committee and Max for getting out the yearbook and asked corrections to be addressed to the membership committee. Summarized the September board meeting. See minutes on website.
Secretary Lee C. Reported May general meeting and September board minutes were being formatted for review and circulation.
Treasurer Ginny reported bank balance of $8,027, $1400 in membership dues.
Environment and Conservation committee cochair Linda VdC reported on their new grant program and shared photos and outcomes.

Vicki introduced the various committee chair persons and asked for them to share information about their committees.
Environment and Conservation Co chairs Betsy V, Linda V

• presented photos and information regarding their new pollinator garden grants.
• their focus was on learning and this year’s focus will be insects.
  Awards Carmen G, new award chair shared some of her insights into the development of the awards program being presented as the October general meeting program.

Civic Beautification Linda S. Spoke for the civic beautifications team, updating information on the current projects of the Veterans Garden, AIM, Stratham municipal entrance enhancement, pending Stratham library refurbishment and the Exeter Historical Society decorations.

Communications Coordinator LuAnn F spoke of our website, monthly happenings just for members and shares her committee of Patti E, Facebook, Jennifer H, publicity.

Design Ann H, spoke of the November workshop November 17, 2 to 6 at the Stratham Municipal Center in conjunction with the Ways and Means Yuletide Fair committee. She also mentioned our May program will again be a Books in Bloom themed event.

Horticulture Ann H, chair spoke of monthly articles for “happenings” being selected for December to June with her committee of nine.

Hospitality Co-Chairs: Carol Mc – Monthly Hosting; Nancy D. – Holiday Luncheon; and Paige C.- June Luncheon chair

• Paige announced her committee is considering new, exciting changes to the June event.

Membership Nicky J, and Lisa C. shared the welcome packet new members receive and spoke of the importance of sunshine provided by Florence W. There are 6 new members.

Ways and Means Johann StL spoke of our two major projects,
Yuletide fair November 19 and indoor yard sale sometime late April of early May. Promise tree chair is Susan C

The members dispersed into committee meetings for the remainder of the meeting.
Submitted by Lee Cooper, Secretary Edits by Vicki B and Pat N

EAGC Board Meeting    Sept 7, 2023 

 Wiggins Library Conference Room

Attendance:  10 members   Meeting called to order at 9:30am

President/ Pat N

• Town of Stratham is in midst of forming new policies on “room usage”. The Morgera Room is unavailable to us this month. Many attempts were made to secure a location for our Sept, meeting – thanks to Paige C for securing the use of the Congregational Church of Exeter. Vicky B will preside at meeting.
• Discussion to make meetings more efficient. Strive to do business at Board Meetings with only necessary committee reports at General meetings.

VP/ Programs Vicki B

• Discussion about purchasing a microphone for meeting use.

Recording Secretary /Lee C.

• May General Meeting minutes missing – will f/u

Treasurer/Ginny T, report submitted

• Current Balance $8,470.64. Taxes have been filed.
• Research done on our 501c7 and discrepancy on our name, Exeter Garden Club rather than Exeter Area Garden Club. There is a line on the tax form to place any “other names” used. The EAGC name is placed there. No further action to do.

Membership/Nickky J, Jane J

• Membership is 57. Suggest use of address labels distributed – adding new member info to handbooks.
• Continue to fine tune the Mentoring program, looking into getting feedback from participants
• Problems with the printing of the yearbook, unsure if page placement issues ours or printer’s. Need closer editing next year.

Communications/LuAnn F

• A potential member contacted us through website concerning the use/updating of the calendar. Will review.
• Patti Elwell is taking the Master Gardener class and will not be at meetings until 2024.

Ways and Means/ Johann StL

• Johann and Lee; Yuletide Fair Nov18 coming soon! Sign-ups at October meeting.

                Some craft workshops done, shell and pine cone pending. Pots for 36 amaryllis nearly done.

Need person to do “staging” at Friday Nov 17 workshop

Need greens and berries

• Need to revitalize the Promise Tree – especially hosted events to provide time for members to get to know one another
• Patti has a club stamp, Betsy will do tags.

Awards: Carmen G., not present

• Awards will be announced at the October General Meeting Program, a special lifetime award will be included. A new sign was made.

• This was a very frustrating process this year. Members of the committee didn’t respond to emails for meetings or garden visits, never more than three – and not the same three for each of the 2-3 visits. Disheartening for the chair and not meeting the criteria for the process.
• Discussion of how to improve the situation: more committee involvement, more member garden suggestions, more visits to gardens, possibly change criteria to pocket garden focus, delay viewing of commercial gardens, offer monetary award.
•  

Civic Beautification/Linda S

• Veterans’ Garden – need to organize crew to freshen up for Veteran’s Day. Need new chairman
• American Independence Museum needs to resolve their drainage issues before we can continue with their gardens. Basic cleanup for fall.
• Stratham Muni Center entry
• Pat N continues with hopes that we can help out Wiggins Library entry way. She will f/u with Librarian and Public Works

Design Ann H

• Successful “Books in Bloom” event. Library loved it – will look at continuing it as a collaborative event. Discussed mentoring folks to encourage participation. Possible club funding to be used.
• Nov 17^th design event for Yuletide Fair arrangements. And mini arrangements.

Environmental & Conservation/Betsy V.

• Committee has met and visited the Mini grant gardens. Posters are ready for the Sept meeting presentation.
• Have their monthly ideas ready

Horticulture Ann H

•  Seeking sign-ups for monthly Hort presentations.
• Seed Library needs seeds.

Hospitality/reports submitted

• Nancy is finalizing the Dec 7^th Christmas Luncheon at The Wentworth. Room fee $500, prices info will be posted by the Oct General Meeting.
• Paige, not present, reported feedback from members about the past Spring luncheon. She will be meeting with her committee and interested parties to look new ideas for our spring event. The cost of venues continues to rise, as does the cost of the catering.

Meeting adjourned at 11am, no motion or vote

Submitted by Lee Cooper, Secretary

General Meeting Minutes  – May 18, 2023

The members gathered at Morgera Room, Stratham F.D.

Meeting was called to order at 10:05am.    35 Members in attendance

President Pat N

• Welcome. Thanks to hosts and setup folks
• Exeter Kids’ Day at the YMCA, Ann H, Ellen J and I attended. Potted up seeds with 70 future gardeners. Received a thank you from Y/Beth Dupell + invite to come again next spring.
• Beth Dupell and her husband used to own the print shop where EAGC had work done. She provided us with the disc with our logo and the Exeter Christmas Grand Marshall banner with our name on it.

VP Vicki B out of town

• Added banner to our inventory
• Linda S – none of scholarship applicants fit our criteria. Suggest we re-visit criteria

Secretary Lee C.

• April Minutes Corrections?   Additions?      NONE 
• Motion to accept by Johann. Seconded by Susan C, Accepted unanimously.

Treasurer Ginny T

• Balance report  $7,111.20
• 2023-2024 Budget, No questions posed. Motion to accept by LuAnn Faber, seconded by Jan B, Accepted unanimously.
•  

Communication Coordinator LuAnn F

• Please visit the website

Nominating Pat N

• The Executive Board has agreed to remain in place 2023-24
• Though many of Committee Chairs are planning to continue – please consider taking on a new challenging role. We need your ideas and enthusiasm.

Awards, Carmen G., Patti S.

• Only four of the gardens under consideration have responded, four others have not responded. Four commercial sites are nominated but have not been contacted as yet. Planning 3 visits over the summer.
• Seeking active participation by committee members

.

Civic Beautification Linda S., Dianna T

• Veterans’ Garden Spring clean-up done. Summer weekly sign-up list passed at meeting
• AIM Linda S – summer sign-up list passed. 
• Stratham Muni Ctr entry – Team is designing an entrance enhancement. Pots will be out soon
• Library entry on hold

Environment and Conservation Betsy V, Linda V.

• Mini Grants have been awarded, the pollinator gardens will be followed through the season.
• Indoor bug identification presentation by Jill. Members returned their plastic bug boxes to share what they found at their homes. Best Bug – Meredith’s bumblebee

Horticulture Ann H.

• Workshop Thursday, May 25, 2-4pm at Stratham Muni Ctr Room A Designing arrangement from trees – twigs, bark, driftwood … or wood containers.
• Hort Moment topic “Tree Mulching, see website.

Hospitality Paige C

• June Luncheon update. Taking checks today, $40/members, $45 guests

Membership Meredith S. Nickky J

• Reminder for folks to send a n updated photo to Max – or ask Max to take one.
• Continue to support the mentoring Program – asking members to volunteer.

Ways and Means Johann St.L

• Thanks to everyone for supporting the April Yard Sale. Gross intake was $1,045.22
• Plant Sale prep info for the June Luncheon Plant Auction.
• Reminded members to start planning workshops for the Nov Yuletide Fair – have events over the summer. Accepting donations of holiday type ribbon, raffia 6 inch clay pot and matching saucers.
• Susan C. explained the Promise Tree program and how it operated to promote fellowship, and bring in income.

No new business introduced from the floor.

Nest meeting June 14^th June Luncheon at Portsmouth Country Club

Motion to adjourn the business meeting by Paige C, seconded by Jan, Vote unanimous. Adjourned at 1037.

Program to follow.

Design Ann H.,

Ann introduced the program “Books in Bloom” – Our Favorite Children’s Book.

            Nine EAGC members have designed arrangements interpreting a favorite childhood book of theirs or their children. Each member related why the book was special and then spoke to how they interpreted it into the arrangement. The arrangements were then put on display at Wiggins Library for two days. Arrangements need to be picked up on Saturday afternoon before closing.

Submitted by Lee Cooper

Actions Taken:
2023-24 Budget approved

EAGC Board Meeting – May 4, 2023

President Pat N thanked hostess and members for yard sale support. No office changes so no need for nominating committee.

Three club members provided a seed planting activity at a YMCA event. Seventy children participated and 6 club rack cards were given out. Beth Dupell provided our parade banner for the table; she also gave us the files for printing our logo. We can use it for future printing needs. It may be cheaper to have our cards and other necessities printed than using home computers.

Vice President away, she has her committee working on the 23/24 program. SST scholarship candidates for this year are unsuitable.. Carmen recommended we look at college students already pursuing suitable paths. Other suggestions: revisit SST, Exeter High School.

Secretary Lee C. April board minutes moved for acceptance by LuAnn and seconded by Betsy. Voted unanimously.

Treasurer Ginny T. Reported balance of $6,531.24. Receipt of $150.00 from the library, yard sale $1,000.56. Receipt of $1,691. New insurance has been obtained through Kane Central for $550 to begin May 10.
Concerns expressed over difference between name of club on tax forms and name currently in use. Exeter Garden Club vs. Exeter Area Garden Club. Discussion ensued regarding looking into formal name change on tax forms. New budget for 23/24 will be voted at May general meeting.

Communication Coordinator LuAnn asked members sending her news to indicate immediate publication if needed, otherwise information will be included in Happenings. She has forms for fund reimbursement you can print from our website.

Awards chair Carmen gave posters soliciting garden recommendation to local town libraries and town offices. There has been a nice response so far. There are 6 gardens to look at. She will be making initial contact to recommended garden owners this month. Will wait for peony bloom for first visit.

Civic Beautification needs a chair. Have individual chair for Veterans Garden, Dianna T. will have initial planting day May 8. AIM chair, Linda S. Clean up is done. Will circulate maintenance sign up sheet at May 18 regular meeting. Stratham municipal center decoration in working state. Dianna T. will design, Linda and Lee will set up. New library project is on hold.

Design chair Ann H. Says 9 members will participate in “Books in Bloom “. Will need 3 tables. Members will talk for a few minutes about their arrangements interpreting childhood books. Has plans for shield and reveal resolved. Arrangements will be loaned to Stratham library for a few days following meeting.
Spring design workshop is May 25 at municipal center. Members will create arrangements featuring wood elements. Sign up,will be at May meeting. Lee will not be able to represent club in Ogunquit museum “Art in Bloom” contest. Ann will contact other club members. Lee says museum has totally new exhibits for their 70th anniversary.

Environment and Conservation mini grant gardens are already being prepared for pollinator friendly planting. Ten mini grants were awarded for a total of $1,691.

Hospitality: Carol M, says Paige sent report on PCC luncheon. Plants for auction 10:30, lunch 12:30. Muffins to be provided for early workers. Garden decorative items will be auctioned. Ways and Means will have sign up for auction workers at May 18 meeting.

Membership: one new Member Ellen Johansen, Stratham. Fifty percent membership renewal so far. Nickki and Jane will do chair. Discussion regarding keeping old yearbooks etc.

Ways and Means: Johann said yard sale total was $1,045.22. Will thank property owner for letting us post sign. Discussion of signage ensued. Thank you to Max for auctioneering.

Yuletide fair application and $100 check for largest space available to be sent to EAGFWC.
Discussion of description of our crafts(.?) to remain same. Will look for economical bulbs and containers locally if possible. Need realistic profit accounting. Pat and Lee. will research bulb options.
Meeting adjourned 11:40. motioned by Johann, seconded by Ann.

Action: civic beautification maintenance schedule for AIM
Revisit Scholarship
Vote 23-24 budget at May meeting
Consider tax form change
Awards: initial contact garden owners
May design workshop
Luncheon sign up
Membership renewal
Sign up for plant auction
Apply for Yuletide fair space.

Submitted by Lee Cooper

EAGC General Meeting – April 20, 2023

Stratham Fire Station, Morgera Room

Called to order a 10:08    Attendance 40 Members and 2 guests

President Pat N

• Welcome and thanks to hosting and set up folks
• Presented requests for EAGC participation in Exeter Y’s Kids’ Health event and Exeter Conservation Comm. Alewives Festival. Members want to defer Alewives Festival til next year. Sign-up list for Y event -seed planting.
• Who was the source of our notecards? Informed out of business.
• When did our club’s name change from Exeter Garden Club to EAGC??? Unknown – need to determine how to adjust on tax forms.

Vice President Vicki B

• Vicki is seeking program ideas for 23-24, please contact her
• Vicki wants to know if there is interest in having an evening meeting to attract more potential members – attending members had mixed responses but were open to having a 6pm meeting one time during season, needs follow-up.
• Linda S No scholarship news form SST as yet

Secretary Lee C

• March minutes corrected to include treasurer’s report, including balance of $7,493.42. Motion to accept corrected minutes by Paige C, seconded by Patti E. Accepted unanimously.  

Treasurer Pat N for Ginny T

• Current balance $5,346.19, with income of $432, Expenses of $2,579.23
• Kane Insurance has given us a quote of $550 for our general liability insurance, more than current policy through Cross Ins. Quote includes the exclusionary clause due to our past suits. Thanks to Carol McCubrey for the introduction to Kane.
• Budget vote in May, so advise members to review on website.

Communication Coordinator, LuAnn F

• Website
• Facebook/Patti Newton Gardens is not a good source of native plants
• PR/Jennifer – seeking pollinator photos

Awards Carmen G, Patti S

• Seeks members’ input on beautiful gardens in the area to be considered for the awards Need POC info. All area towns eligible. Using postcards to communicate with garden owners.

Civic Beautification Jan C, Linda S, Dianna T

• Veteran’s Garden Spring Clean-up Volunteers. Sign up for summer maintenance week
• AIM Gardens will be refreshed soon. Waiting for drainage issues to be solved before more work.
• Stratham Muni Center entry pots. Linda, Dianna and Lee are planning to put out soon. Met with Kerry Cronin, new director of Wiggins Library – she has lots of ambitious plans, including a Seed Library – modeled on ours with Exeter Library. I addressed possibility of EAGC working on the library entry gardens. Sign up list for interested folks.

Design Ann H

• The design program in May will feature “Books Make Me Bloom” with five members already prepared to make arrangements. Theme base on a favorite children’s book.
• Design Workshop Theme “Blending Wood with Floral” May 25^th 2-4pm, Muni Ctr. Room A. Sign up sheet available. Members free, guests $5.
• Ogunquit Art Museum has sent invite to participate in their “Art in Bloom”  (member, Lee Cooper took 2^nd place in 2022). Art selection is May 11^th 5:30 to 7pm. Contest is June 23,24,25. There is $75 available to member entry, from funds in Memory of Connie Gilmore. Lee C is willing to assist.

Environment and Conservation, Betsy V.

• There were 12 Mini grant applicants, 9 have been chosen:  $1600 awarded

Hospitality Paige C

• Checks and menu selection for the June 14^th Luncheon at PCC. $40 members, $45 for guests.

Membership, Meredith S, Nicky J, Jane J

• Nicky J will be taking over as chair
• Visitors Ellen Johansen and Amanda Martin
• Membership dues for 2023-2024 are $25, please write separate check for dues.
• Sunshine – Lisa C having back surgery.

Horticulture Ann H

• Jill C did Hort Moment on “Wild Indoors” – insects. She passed out small specimen jars for members to collect an insect found inside their home – bring to share next month.

Ways and Means Johann StL

Promise Tree – sign ups at table

Sale table items available

• Yard Sale Saturday, April 22 9-12
  • Sign up lists for shifts and clean-up.
  • Signage up, notices in papers and Facebook
  • Garden related items, Baked goods and Plant donations needed
  • Set up Friday April 21 2-5pm
  • Final setup 730 Saturday morning
• Plant Auction at June Banquet – start preparing you best plants for event

Motion to adjourn made by Lee C, seconded by Linda V, voted unanimous at 10:40am.

Program Vicki B

Introduced today’s Program “Container Gardening” with Kelly Orzel.

• Very informative and enjoyable 45-minute talk with colorful slide presentation.

Submitted by- Lee Cooper, Recording Secretary:

Action Needed:

Club name change and IRS

Fill in Garden volunteer sign-ups!

EAGC Board Meeting – April 6, 2023

at Lee Cooper’s Home, hosted by Lee C and Ann H
Meeting was called to order at 9:50am. # Members in attendance 12

President Pat N

• May 4th Board meeting to be at Betsy Vershay’ s home
• Nominating Committee formed: Members: Pat N, Vicki B, Lee C, LuAnn F, Ginny T

Vice-President Vicki B. not in attendance due to Covid

• Vicki working to get 2023-24 Program set up before mid-June
• Asked that we discuss having program before business at general meeting. Discussion revealed this had come up before – concern if there is change members will leave before business reports. Stay with current order – tighten up business meeting to finish by 10:30. Patti S offered idea to have some meetings at alternate time, perhaps 5:30 or 6pm to attract a younger working population. We have 62 members but continue to see the same active core – need ideas to involve new members. Mentor program a good first step.
• Linda S – no news on scholarship candidates as yet, will reconnect with SST

Secretary Lee C.

• March Minutes Move to approve by Carmen G, seconded by LuAnn F, voted unanimously.

Treasurer Ginny T

• Balance $10,429. 2023-24 Budget posted, on website, vote at May meetings.
• 2 New members who joined after Jan 1 will have a $12.50 refund – per bylaws.
• Insurance update, Cross premium $600/annual with exclusion clause due to prior lawsuit. An option is Kane Insurance, Portsmouth. Thanks to Carol McCubrey for making the intro at Kane. Our policy expires on May 10. Board directed Ginny to proceed with her best decision on choosing Kane or stay with Cross.

Communication Coordinator LuAnn …. Facebook/Patti

Awards Carmen G … will serve this cycle, but doesn’t want to chair for 23-24

• Committee meeting 4/17, only 6 of 12 members have rsvp’d. Will present process at general meeting + seeking input from all members.

Civic Beautification Linda S.,

• AIM continues to have drainage problems – garden work on hold.
• Stratham Muni Ctr will be doing pots soon
• No action on Exeter Bandstand for this season in consideration of past frustrations with town and no chair
• Wiggins Library has new director. Pat N will meet to discuss possibility of working on the entry gardens.

Design,

• May Meeting Books in Bloom update – 9 members participating. Will meet with them after General meeting. Request for $25 to participants to defer cost of materials. Moved by Patti, seconded by Betsy V, voted unanimously.
• Interest in Ogunquit Art in Bloom? There is still $125 remaining from memorials for Connie Gilmore. Motion to fund $75 made by LuAnn F and seconded by Betsy V to do so. Voted unanimously. Lee Cooper is considering doing it if no other member is interested.
• Change to 23-24 budget to reflect Design expenses moved by Carmen G and seconded by LuAnn, Unanimous vote.

Environment and Conservation Betsy V., Linda VdC

• Strong response to mini-grants – 14 requests, 12 are very strong; 5 in Exeter and 7 in Statham. The committee meets this week to select – ‘chairs asked for additional $700 to their $1500 budget. After discussion, Patti E moved that we adjust budget of $2200, seconded by Linda S, vote unanimous.
• requesting additional funding

Horticulture Ann H.,

• April Hort Moment Linda VdC
  Patti: Seed Library/Exeter library.
• Continues to have no seeds returned. Library initially thought barcoding the seeds, for “return notifications” might be a solution – but too expensive. Library offered $150 donation to EAGC to help defer expenses. Lee C motioned that we accept donation, Betsy v seconded, vote unanimous.
• Contacted by “Pollinator Pathways” group for partnership/volunteers. E&C shared their concerns about our inability to supply volunteers – in addition EAGC’s pollinator garden mini-grants is complimentary to their program. Patti will say “no thank you” for now – we can revisit in a year.

Hospitality Paige called in report

• Meeting with Erin/PCC this morning about June 14th Luncheon at PCC
• Plan to seek similar menu and cost to last year’s event. Plated meal. Will present details at April 20 meeting. Centerpieces are being planned.

Membership Meredith,

• Meredith will not be chairman 23-24, need new chair info on membership forms ASAP. Pat N will approach Nickky J.
• Separate check for membership and luncheon please.

Programs Kelly Orzel “Container Gardens” April Program

Ways and Means Johann St.L

• Yard Sale Update. 9 of 10 tables rented. Need volunteers for cleanup. Prefers all donation, baked, garden items, plants be delivered to Muni Ctr on Friday, April 21 between 2 and 5
• Notices in papers, sign on corner, FD sign.
• Lee C requested help to dig plants for sale.
• Spring Luncheon Plant Auction bring larger more unique plants … bring the multiple and common plants to the yard sale..

Motion to adjourned at 11:38am. By Patti E, seconded Linda S

ACTIONS TAKEN:
No change in order of General Meetings
Treasurer to contact Kane Insurance for option to current insurer/Cross
May/Books in Bloom – voted to give each of the 9 participants $25 to defer expenses
Hort Ogunquit Art in Bloom – voted to allow $75 to one member interested in participating.
E&C – added $700 to budget for 22-23 mini-grants, if needed.
Seed Library voted to accept $150 donation offer from Exeter Library

Submitted by,
Lee C, Recording Secretary

EAGC General Meeting March 16, 2023

March 16, 2023

Call to order 9:55 am
Attendance 31, 2 guests
Membership: Meredith S.  introduced 2 new members and 2 guests.
Maxine is here for yearbook photos or send her one you like as photos in book lost.

Hospitality team was recognized and thanked.
Secretary: no corrections or additions to Feb minutes. Moved Kathy J., second, Max F.

Awards: announcement by VP: Carmen Giebelhaus would like committee members to see latest email and respond.
Design:  Ann H. Circulated plan for May meeting to her program team.
E and C:  Betsy V announced 5 mini grant applications received with deadline April 1.
Vicki B presented an E and C moment.
Horticulture:  Carol C presented March horticulture moment and quiz on Taragon with tasty samples and a few extras for the Promise tree.
Horticulture:  Becky M. Shared Amarylis tips.  Cut flowers last longer, leave 5 inches of stem.  Plant in ground to increase bulb size.  Keep watered and mark location for fall removal.
Ways and Means:  Johann S. Circulated sign up sheet for workers at April 22 yard sale.
Meeting adjourned to program 10:24.

Submitted by Lee Cooper

EAGC General Meeting Feb. 16, 2023

President Pat N. called the meeting to order at 10:10 a.m. There were 24 members and one guest in attendance. She thanked the hospitality committee for the festive holiday table and refreshments. Members were asked to participate in committees and consider running for a board position.
Ginny T. read the treasurers report. Our current balance is $7,918.42. Requests Committee Chairs submit 2023-24 Budgets by March 1.
Civic Beautification Pat N sought input on any continued interest in EAGC’s working on the gazebo in Exeter. It had a special place of affection and pride for members for many years. Exeter has not reached out to us. If there are members who are interested in taking on this site – please contact Pat – otherwise there will be no further action.
Ann H. reported on Agra Wool, an alternative for Oasis, and passed around a sample. It will be used in design workshops.
Patti E. Seed Library at Exeter Library is being restocked. Possibly being relocated in building.
Meredith S. introduced our guest, Kathy Maskell. She thanked Lisa C. for standardizing the name tags and stated Alice I. has become an inactive member.
Johann St. L. announced the Yard Sale will be held April 22 from 8-1. Our table will have garden related items, baked goods, and plants. Additional information will be available next month.
Susan mentioned the sale items on the table made by members and the three Promise Tree outings to Fuller Gardens, Bedrock Garden, and Alnoba.
Max F. unfortunately lost the template for the yearbook and most of the members photos for the publication. She does have a backup PDF file but will need to retake photos or have members send her photos.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:33 a.m. on a motion made by Carol C. and seconded by Susan C.
Program: E&C’s presented a large amount of well displayed information with handouts and POC emails about the importance of using native plantings in our gardens/yards – seeking an 80/20 native over “exotics”. Directed interactive discussion of what members actually have planted in gardens. INFORMATIVE!
Respectfully submitted by Linda S for Lee C
EAGC Budget Board Meeting March 2 @ 930 at Pat N’s. Members are welcome – must RSVP.

EAGC Board Meeting Feb 2, 2023

The meeting was called to order at 10:10 am at Paige Curtis’ home.
Eleven members were in attendance. They included Pat Navin, Paige Curtis, Ginny Tremberth, LuAnn Faber, Linda Van de Car, Johanna St Laurent, Ann Hohenberger, Meredith Steven, Betsy Vershay, Carmen Giebelhaus, and Linda Sadlock

President Pat N
Pat thanked Paige, for hosting. Next month’s meeting will be the budget meeting and will be held at her home in Hampton. Budget requests need to be submitted before March 1st. The April meeting will be at Lee’s, May at Betsy’s, and June at Susan’s.

Vice-President Vicki B.
Linda S notified SST that she is the contact person for this year’s scholarship.
The Program Committee will meet February 16th from 12 to 1.

Secretary Lee C/absent.
December minutes accepted on a motion made by LuAnn and seconded by Linda V. All were in favor.

Treasurer Ginny T
Balance as of December $9,945.90 Balance as of January $ 8,292.34
January income $50 Linda Szabo $35 plus Rye Garden Club $15
Expenses deposit for Wentworth CC and Portsmouth CC $500 each
Program $324.92 Misty Meadows
Printed material for E & C, and programs $163 E & C $15.80 plus $147.20 programs.
Website security $215.64

Ginny will send current budgets to all chairwomen by the end of the month so they can prepare their budget requests, which need to be submitted by the first of March.

Communication Coordinator LuAnn, Facebook/Patti
The board approved a two year Go Daddy hosting expense of $215.76 on a motion by Luann. Carmen seconded it and all were in favor.
Patti posted the mini grants on Facebook and had a great deal of positive feedback. There were many questions about whether the EAGC had a list of natives it could provide both for those applying for the grants and those just looking to help pollinators. There were many emails between Pat, Linda VDC, Betsy, LuAnn, and Jennifer about how best to provide information, and how the E&C will define native plants.

Awards Carmen G No news

Civic Beautification Linda S.,
The holiday decorations were removed from the Exeter Historical Society.

Design Ann
The Committee will meet and plan for May Design Workshop
Ann passed around an Agra Wool block which is a natural floral foam, an organic alternative to oasis. The board approved the purchase of 20 blocks on a motion made by Carmen. Her motion was seconded by Ann, and all were in favor.

Environment and Conservation Betsy V, Linda VDC
The Committee is working on the February meeting presentation, in addition to publicity/posters for the mini grants. The mini grant pollinator pathway program will be kept small with neighboring groups of property in the Exeter/Stratham area.

Horticulture Ann H.
Ann will write the February Hort article.

Hospitality Paige C
Paige dropped the deposit for the June 14th luncheon at the Portsmouth CC. Betsy moved the club cover the $500 expense. This will keep the price per person lower. It was seconded by LuAnn, and all were in favor There will be a plated meal of fish or chicken with a vegetarian option.

Membership Meredith
She expressed her appreciation to Nickky for making over 50 club information packets for current and new members. The new members will also receive a seed envelope designed and filled by Patti. She requested Anne Campbell’s new address.

Ways and Means Johann St.L Promise Tree / Susan C Not Present
The April Yard and Bake Sale will be on the 22nd at the Stratham municipal center from 8-1. Set up for the club and vendors will be the day before from 2-5. The club table will be garden related items and plants only.

Decisions made:
December minutes accepted.
Website hosting expense approved.
Design Committee can purchase agra wool blocks.
Deposit for Spring Luncheon will be covered by the board.

The meeting adjourned at 11:23 on a motion made by Betsy and seconded by LuAnn.

Respectfully submitted by Linda S for Lee Cooper/ Recording Secretary

EAGC General Meeting – January 19, 2023

The members gathered at Morgera Room, Stratham F.D.
Meeting was called to order at 10 a.m. Members in attendance29 + speaker
President Pat N
• Thank LuAnn and the Hosting team
• Comments on Exeter Christmas Parade– good group; sent thank you to Organizer and team
• A big thank you to Nancy Dannecker and her committee for a most enjoyable Holiday Luncheon
• Thanks to Promise Tree Event Hosts: Betsy for her Yankee Swap – recognized Paige’s creative use of her “swap gift” at today’s hosting table. Thanks to Susan C for the holiday Brunch.
Vice-President Vicki B.
– Scholarship contact done by Linda S Scholarship – Linda S

Secretary Lee C.
• Nov Minutes. Corrections or additions? Motion to accept Linda S, Seconded by Katherine vote unanimous.
Treasurer Ginny T
• Balance report – $9,120
• Budget Meeting March 2. Committee Chairs please submit requests by March 1.
Communication Coordinator LuAnn
• There was a problem with system – OK now. Please advise if you have any problems accessing.
Awards Carmen G – No report
Civic Beautification Linda S.
• Jan-EHS Holiday decoration “deconstruct” date tbd
Design Ann H., -No report
Environment and Conservation Betsy V, Linda VdC
• Forms distributed for members to record plants in their yards. This will be part of the Feb program
• Mini-grants 2023 will be for developing a “Pollinator Corridor” in Exeter and Stratham, @ $100-$200.
• Water/Snow presentation with informative display by LuAnn F
Horticulture Ann H.
• Hort Moment – Fungal Gnats posted
• Patti E had stamp made for seed exchange – available for use to committees.
Hospitality Nancy D, Paige C, Carol Mc
• Paige June Luncheon June 14th, details at Feb meeting. Members will be asked to only bring 2-3 nice plants for auction.
• Nancy – Holiday luncheon 2023 – December 7th, deposit set

Membership Nickky J
• Mentor program described and implementing, all new members have a mentor assigned
• Intro 6 new members
• New member packets displayed and available to members.

Ways and Means Johann St. L
• Promise Tree – new leaves in Member’s Packet
o Betsy’s Annual Christmas Swap Dec — success
o Susan C’s Christmas Brunch successful
• Yuletide Fair
o Plan to do as fundraiser in Nov 2023
o Unsold items – charitable purposes, club members, Christmas Luncheon, to Stratham Town Hall
• Yard Sale in April 22. Garden themed items + plants, Vendor tables will be available@ $20 or $30.
Motion to adjourn by Jen, Seconded by Karen. Vote Unanimous. Meeting adjourned at 10:20.
Next Meeting, February 16, 2023

Lee C, Recording Secretary
Program: Herbs to Support a Healthy Immune System
Speaker Wendy Snow Fogg

EAGC Board Meeting – Jan. 5, 2023

Community Room, Wiggin Library, Stratham NH
Meeting was called to order at 9:45 am. 12 Members in attendance

President Pat N

• Thanks for all the participation in the Exeter Holiday Parade as Grand Marshall – We had good participation. Note of thanks sent to Beth Dupell and her Committee for a well-organized event
• Feb Board meeting tentatively at Paige C’s home
• March is Budget Meeting for 2023-24

Vice-President Vicki B.

• Program Committee
• Linda S will coordinate the EAGC Scholarship

Secretary Lee C.

• Dec Minutes: Motion to accept by LuAnn F, seconded by Carol M – Motion carried.

Treasurer Ginny T

• Balance report $9,945
• Report on Holiday Fair net – $1184. Lively discussion ensued – see under W&M

Communication Coordinator LuAnn …. Facebook/Patti

• $90 security insurance payment due for website/5 year

• – Question raised about how many committee members could attend a Board Meeting. Since Board Meetings are open to all membership, there should be no limit. EXCEPT when a member hosts the meeting and space is limited.

Awards Carmen G not present but communicated by email

• Nothing to report

Civic Beautification Linda S., Dianna T.

• EHS Holiday decoration dismantle – Jan C will coordinate
• Stratham Town Hall pot has been moved – Linda S will f/u

Design (Ann H. has Covid),

• May Meeting planning in the works
• Hopes to have a spring design event

Environment and Conservation Betsy V,.

• Committee working on Feb meeting. Asked LuAnn to resend out the “Plants In Your Existing Garden” forms to members for participation in this interactive Feb Program
• New Mini-Grant application will be available at the Feb General Meeting

Horticulture Ann H.

• Jan Hort article –Fungus Gnats on Houseplants by Pat N posted
• Patti/ Seed Library

Hospitality Nancy D, Paige C

• Holiday Luncheon 2022 a success. Requested $500 deposit/not fee for Holiday Luncheon 2023
• Paige is working on June Luncheon at PCC. Fees and plate cost has increased. Board wishes to stay with PCC further discussion at Feb Board Meeting as to how to cost out.

Membership Meredith S, Lisa

• 5 new members this year – total membership at 59
• Newest member is Denise Ankarberg, Design Comm.- a comm member will contact her.
• Discussion of how to recognize new members at meeting
• The New Member Packet was introduced – will be available to all members at the Jan General Meeting

Ways and Means Johann St.L

• Lively discussion of how to move forward as Committee wants to participate in 2023. Linda S motioned that EAGC makes the EAGFWC Yuletide Fair our major annual fundraiser, LuAnn F seconded, Motion carried with one opposing vote.
• Yuletide Fair points of discussion
  o W&M’s chair/comm will determine what items will be accepted
  o Merchandising mistakes – too many offerings, too crowded space, presentation
  o Workshops were the positive aspect – members working in small groups
  o Focus on garden related … branding a specific item to repeat each year… quality product
  o Do workshops earlier – avoid last minute crunch
  o Pat N will send note of thanks for this years event and express hope to come again.
• Promise Tree
  o Dec events, Susan’s Brunch and Betsy’s Swap were successes
• April Yard Sale under consideration for April 22, Exeter school break begins April 21.

Meeting adjourned at 11:15 am

Respectfully submitted by,
Lee C, Recording Secretary

EAGC Board Meeting – Dec. 1, 2022

The members gathered at Wiggins Library, Community Room, in Stratham.
Meeting was called to order at 9:30 am. 15 members in attendance.

President Pat N.

• Jan. board meeting will be in same venue. Feb meeting at Paige Curtis’ home
• Thanks to the folks that brought us snacks this morning – above and beyond!
• EAGC has been chosen grand Marshall of the Exeter Holiday Parade Dec 3. Board members LuAnn and Patti will carry banner, Pat, Lee, Ann and Carmen will participate. Pat will send reminder to membership so any members may join in the parade.

Vice-President Vicki B.

• Out of Town, no new business

Secretary Lee C.

• Nov Minutes: No corrections or additions?
• Motion to accept by Susan C Seconded by Linda V, Unanimous vote.

Treasurer Ginny T

• Balance report $10,716 , replacement check written to ’22 scholarship student; funds will be replaced on closing old account, original check voided.
• Returned check from luncheon resolved, member paid.
• Holiday Fair payments – get receipts in. Gross intake approx. $1700.

Communication Coordinator LuAnn F, Patti E

• New Rack cards were well received at Fair. Paid $12/50 but the format isn’t correct. Will f/u.
• Facebook -Patti E pictures posted of Fair

Awards Carmen G

• Comm working on revision of garden visitation requirements

Civic Beautification Linda S., Dianna T.

• Veterans’ Garden Fall clean up done
• AIM Fall Clean up – one last area to clean out
• EHS Holiday – Jan and crew decorated wreaths and pots on 11/28. Topiaries not done due to difficulty lifting pots from basement and cost of boxwood.
• Stratham Town Hall – new winter display in the works. Need an EAGC sign.

Design Ann H. Lee C.

• Yuletide Fair Workshop was a success – 13 members produced 40 arrangements, dried and fresh and over 28 swags for sale at the Fair. Followed by a massive clean-up of the workspace. Vicki and Johann simultaneously did a mock-up of our display space, dismantled, transported and stored for the Fair. This included members, family and friend volunteers.

Environment and Conservation Betsy V, Linda VdC

• Plan to work with committee members after the holidays on a new mini-grant application and process focusing on pollinator friendly goals. Patti suggested connecting with UNH’s team.

Horticulture Ann H.

• Hort Tips – Pat N apologized for failing to submit Nov Hort Tip – apology accepted and reassigned Jan Hort tip.
• Seed Library – Patti E thanked our local businesses who supplied seeds to the Seed Library on Facebook. Question raised if we should send written Thank You notes to these supporters. Repackaging the bulk of seeds is a project.

Hospitality

• December Luncheon, all set.
• Will be using leftover Fair bulbs as décor/prizes.

Membership Meredith S. Nickky

• New members Mentors, Patti Smith – Marie Doyle, Mary Potvin – LuAnn Faber

Ways and Means Johann St.L
Johann found a piece of jewelry in a paper bag after unloading post Fair.
Owner should contact her to identify piece.

• Promise Tree- Susan, There are still opening at Betsy’s Dec Swap and Susan’s Brunch.

YULETIDE FAIR – Lessons Learned/ Johann and Lee
o Workshops were a success in terms of socialization, involving new members BUT would need to schedule earlier in year – too rushed at end
o There was an excess of product
 Dried hydrangeas and red twig didn’t sell
o Holiday arrangements did better than fall types, fresh better than dried
o Amaryllis bulbs did well, paperwhite fairly, daffodils poorly? presentation? One has to order min. $400 to get a bulk rate. Problems getting proper sized bowls for amaryllis bulbs.
o Christmas/holiday themed shells did well, not fall types
 Hanging types of shells sold well
o Display area was too small, product too crowded. Sales folks frequently blocked view of space.

Profit was difficult to assess; workshop leaders and club members donated so many things it is impossible to derive a true profit or loss of income. All receipts not in but we may clear $1100 -$1200 which is similar in profit to our bake sales at elections and plant auction. Much like the auction, members spent large amounts of money on product. Discussion followed on our mission – Purpose of fair participation: workshops fun and beneficial to getting acquainted and friendship building, community recognition. Recognition of member creativity

Summary, The Board should survey membership whether to continue fair participation in future and if so, ideas for workshops to produce design and garden related items. Board should then advise Ways and Means committee.

Meeting unofficially ended at 11:30 a.m.

Submitted by,
Secretary Lee C.

EAGC General Meeting – November 17, 2022

The members gathered at Morgera Room, Stratham F.D.
Meeting was called to order at 10 am. 47 Members in attendance + 2 guests

President Pat N

• Thank Linda VdC and the Hosting team
• Exeter Christmas Parade is Dec 3rd – We are Grand Marshal. Please contact me for details.

Vice-President Vicki B.

• Check your Yearbooks for Program info

Secretary Lee C.

• Oct Minutes. No corrections or additions. Motion to accept by Vicki B, Seconded by LuAnn F. vote unanimous.

Treasurer Ginny T

• Balance report – $8,618.85

Communication Coordinator

• New Rack cards at Fair
• Spider Plant “babies” donated by local student – results of his successful 1st grade project.
• Facebook/Patti Recognized donors of seeds for the Seed Library on Facebook

Awards Mary-Jo C.

• Introduced Carmen G as new chair

Civic Beautification Linda S., Dianna T. Jan C

• Jan-EHS Holiday decoration sign-ups Tuesday, Nov 29, 2022 @ 9:30
• Dianna-Veteran’s Garden fall clean up done
• Linda S-AIM finishing up fall clean up
• Stratham Town Hall entry seasonal update, including pool floaty candy canes!

Design Ann H., Patti S, Lee C

• Workshop –tomorrow, Nov 18th 1-5 Muni Center. Materials and instructions will be available. Bring containers and any material you wish to donate. You may make and take.

Environment and Conservation Betsy V,. Linda VdC

• Handed out form to members as they wrap up their gardens. This will be part of the program in January.
• Water usage and conservation presentation/Ann H

Horticulture Ann H.

• Pat N apologized for not having Hort article done – reassigned January

Hospitality Nancy D

• Holiday Luncheon still has spaces

Membership Meredith S., Nickky

• Mentor program described and implementing, all new members have a mentor assigned
• Registration forms will be at Fair
• Card for Carol C was passed for signatures
• 2 guests from Rye Garden Club welcomed

Ways and Means Johann St.L

• Promise Tree – Susan C
  o Betsy’s Annual Christmas Swap Dec 12th — spaces available
  o Susan C’s Christmas Brunch Dec 16th — spaces available
• Yuletide Fair trial set-up tomorrow at wkshp – those signed up bring the tables etc.
  Sign-up Sheets for Fair
  Transportation – Need transportation for Lattice, tables, arrangements
  Set-up and clean-up
  Boxes for arrangements
  Pricing to be done by the workshop leaders or the floral arranger
  Unsold items – TBD — charitable purposes, club members, Christmas Luncheon, to Stratham Town Hall. Will f/u at Dec Board Meeting

Meeting adjourned at 11:20 am
Lee C, Recording Secretary

EAGC Board Meeting

November 3, 2022
Members gathered at LuAnn Faber’s home, Hampton Falls, NH. Meeting was called to order at 9:45am with17 members in attendance.

President Pat N.

• Extra Board Meeting Dec 1 at Wiggins Library, 9;30 AM. Follow up on Yuletide Fair and lessons learned. Nancy D. offered to bring snack, members bring own beverage. There is Keurig available – bring own coffee pod.
• Hosting /hosts still needed for Jan, Feb, Mar, April, May. And June which is usually a joint board breakfast.
• Stratham BOS inquired if we were interested in doing a bake sale at Nov. 8th polling site – board passed on this year, will consider 2024.
• New EAGC 4’x2’ banner w 6 grommets and bungee cord presented. No update on manipulating logo shape.
• Several members incurring health issues. Cards to be sent

V.P. Vicki B

• accepted banner into inventory

Secretary Lee C.

• October minutes – Corrections? Additions?
• Motion to accept by LuAnn F. Seconded by Betsy V Accepted unanimously.

Treasurer Ginny T

• Reported checkbook balance of $9,140.90. Our insurance status is still not settled for the future as it is hard to find club insurance. Linda S. Is researching possible companies and additional board members insurance costs.
• A member’s check was returned for insufficient funds resulting in a $50 dollar charge by the bank to our account. The member will be asked to reimburse the club. Pat N will make the inquiry.
• Treasurer is considering using Venmo app for Yuletide fair payments only. The executive board will consider her recommendations after her research is completed.
• 2021–2022 Scholarship winner has not cashed check. Pat N will follow up

Communication coordinator LuAnn F

• Said our new rack cards are being produced by Jennifer who has a family emergency situation to deal with, so she will produce a few cards for fair use only.
• Another claim was made for use of a comic from 2003. Insurance paid $250 claim but will not renew ins. She has thoroughly cleaned our website, but this company has made us an easy target.

Awards Carmen G

• Award winners’ pictures posted on our FaceBook page
• spoke of beginning early to find possible winner gardens and expressed concerns regarding trespassing to view private gardens. She will make recommendations for a committee policy.

Civic Beautification Linda S and Dianna T

• Linda S says AIM wishes to continue our working relationship regarding the flower beds and future landscape plans. She will schedule a fall cleanup of the newly installed beds. Stratham Town Hall display updated.
• Dianna T had an October cleanup of the Veterans Garden and will spruce the garden up for Veterans Day. She hopes to find mums.
• The Exeter historical society decoration will be simplified this year and is scheduled for Tuesday November 29th according to Jan C.

Design, Ann H

• reminded board of November workshop before the fair and will remind those signed up what they need to bring.

E & C Betsy V, Linda V

• will need the full program time for their planned presentation. Vicki was hoping to invite this year’s civic gardener to visit with us.

Horticulture, Ann H

• needs 4 volunteers for 2023 horticultural tips as her 4 members have already committed to 4.
• Seed library received donations of seed packets from Rolling Green and Scammons, and the club received plants from Barkers. Personal cards should be sent and Patti should prepare public recognition for Facebook and our website. The board approved.

Hospitality, Nancy D

• has 30 luncheon reservations and the cutoff date is November 28. Meal cost is $35. Has favors and will think about centerpieces after the fair.

Membership, Meredith S, Nickky J

• reported to new members and all 4 of our most recent members now have mentors. Nicky explained the name
• changed from advocate and described duties being considered. Terms would be 6 months to a year with duties including but not limited to greeting, introducing, explaining things like Promise tree. They would welcome ideas.
• They shared creative card packets given to new members and asked for seed packets to refresh their supply.
• NB Some committee chairs stated that they always write a welcome note to new members of their committee – many attending were unaware of this courtesy practice.

Programs Vicki B

• brought up program speakers wanting to sell books and there was a discussion of not receiving promised percentages so far and maybe adding some requirements to our program contract in the future.

Ways and Means, Johann StL

• Chair thanked Susan C. for taking on the Promise Tree. We need to get some events on the calendar.
• Johann/Lee/Vicki explained fair plans for new vendor space change, set up for workshop need, transportation of goods and set up materials were worked out.
• The worker volunteer schedule will be reproduced and sent to membership as reminder.

Meeting adjourned 11 am
Lee C., Recording Secretary

December 1, 2022 Board Meeting at 9;30 – Wiggin Memorial Library – Community Room

EAGC General Meeting

October 20, 2022

The members gathered at Morgera Room, Stratham F.D.
Meeting was called to order at 10am. Members in attendance 39, including 2 new members+ 6 guests

VP Vicki presiding

• Business meeting to follow program to accommodate the award recipients.

Awards Mary-Jo C.
Awards Chair thanked her committee

• Linda B. Who then announced the Civic Garden Winner “Sustainable Meadow of Hope”, located at the Exeter Chestnut Street Apartments owned by Chinburg Properties. Accepting the award for Eric Chinburg, President/CEO of Chinburg Properties was Lexi Jackson, Property Manager of the apartments. Also recognized were Barbara Beardsley, designer and lead gardener of the” Meadow of Hope”, and her assistant Ann Smith. Ms Beardsley was unable to attend and her letter to the club with her vision was shared.
• MJ then introduced the Residential Garden Winners, Sherri and Kim Brown of 12 Brown Rd., Hampton Falls who shared a few words.
• Winners received framed certificates and EAGC garden signs to display for one year, and I year EAGC membership

Vice-President Vicki B.

• Called business meeting to order at 10:45. Welcomed 2 new members
• Thanked MaryAnne J and her Hospitality team for refreshments.
• Announced the doors would be unlocked at 9 am for future meetings,

Secretary Lee C.

• Sept Minutes Corrections? Additions? NONE
• Motion to accept by Linda V. Seconded by Jan B Accepted unanimously.

Treasurer Ginny T

• Balance report
• Insurance status

Awards Mary Jo C

• Introduced Carmen G as the new Awards Comm Chair

Communication Coordinator LuAnn F

• Asked members to share their photos submitted to website in smallest format, please.

Civic Beautification Linda S., Dianna T. Jan C

• Dianna T announced a Veterans Garden fall clean up date of Tuesday October 25.
• Linda S. Spoke of holiday changes to the Stratham Municipal Center arrangement, and said AIM was in a planning mode.
• Jan C. Said the EHS holiday decorations will be of a simpler design this year and decorating day is November 29th.

Design Ann H., Patti S

• The May “Books Make Me Bloom” program is filled with volunteer members.

Environment and Conservation Betsy V, Linda V.

• This year’s focus will be on water, then plants and bugs, with monthly short talks and a major program presentation at the February meeting.
• A “plants in your garden” form was passed to members to use as they perform fall cleanup and winter bedding of their gardens. The form is to be brought to the February meeting.

Horticulture Ann H.

• Shared today’s botanical specimens brought by members. Members are asked to bring specimen to the November meeting
• She thanked Linda V for this month’s horticulture tip.
• Linda V suggested a committee be considered for the growing number of members who no longer have gardens. Program chair Vicki B referred members to new yearbook for future programs.

Hospitality Nancy D

• Holiday Luncheon – Is taking reservations for the December 8 luncheon at the Wentworth Country Club in Rye. The meal is $35 with 3 meal choices to be selected with registration.

Membership Meredith S. Nickky J

• Will be asking members to sign up to be buddy advocates to new members at the next meeting. There is 1 new member today.
• For members without gardens, there is an April program on container gardening.

Ways and Means Johann St.L

• Johann drew the 50/50 raffle ticket
• Susan C. explained the Promise Tree program and how it operates to promote fellowship, and bring in income.
  Yuletide Fair Updates: Yuletide fair sponsored by the EAGFWC is November 19, 9 to 2. At the middle school in Stratham.
• Workshop on Friday the 18th from 1 to 5 at the Stratham Municipal Center to make gourd, fresh and dried arrangements to sell at the Fair.
• The set up committee will also be organizing the vendor space plan.
• Workshop organizers will be bringing the products of their teams.
• Transportation to and from the fair of all materials and goods will be finalized.
• Betsy V needs more clean pots for amaryllis
• Pat N. Will have 2 more pine cone workshops Nov 11 and 14 from 9 to 12. Sign up passed. No more pine cones are needed but baked acorns would be welcome.

Meeting adjourned at __
Lee C, Recording Secretary

EAGC Board Meeting Minutes

October 6, 2022

Members gathered at Wiggin Memorial Library, Stratham, NH. Meeting was called to order at 9:45am with 12 members in attendance.

President Pat N.

• Meeting venue changed to present location due to scheduled host’s +Covid test, big thanks to Karen Richards for sponsoring room for us with the library.
• Many attendees like this space for convenience and it could be an alternative venue for a hosting Board Member who doesn’t have space for large group. Nancy D., Stratham resident with required library card, will check into availability of this room for our board meetings dates. LuAnn will be contacted re: hosting Nov 3 or moving to new venue.
• Agreed to a December 1 meeting to follow up on Yuletide Fair.
  Vice President Vicki B
• October program is Awards committee presentation
• 2 x 4 Banner with 6 grommets and bungie cords ordered. Pat N. will pick up today.
• Discussion of the pdf file- EAGC logo, provided by Staples – can only be used if one has Acrobat Reader. Vicki was able to convert to jpeg. Both pdf and jpeg files sent to Patti E, and Jennifer H. The company that provided original logo is out of business and no one has any digital file.
• Pat will see if Staples can further manipulate the digital file to remove outlining rectangle and offer logo in “round “shape”.
  Secretary Lee C.
• September 16 general meeting minutes, with date correction. Motioned to accept by Vicki B., seconded by Betsy and voted unanimously.
• Lee read letter of thanks from Ogunquit Art Museum.
  Treasurer Ginny T– absent, report submitted
• Balance sheet attached. Checking – $8,195.90 in new account, People’s account $1,017 with $1000.00 scholarship check outstanding.
• Present insurance company policy not being renewed. Cross Ins seeking for affordable new policy. Linda S. will check with Newcomers club about theirs. Club type policies are difficult to find.
  Communication coordinator LuAnn F
• is making new rack cards to display at public club functions, e.g. seed library, Yuletide fair.
• Copyright infringement issues: Patti E. will check Facebook liabilities. Members should avoid links when sharing.
  Awards absent, sent in report
• October meeting presentation to outstanding gardens
• Carmen G will shadow MJ and become committee chair
  Civic Beautification Linda S and Dianna T
• New fall welcoming arrangement for Stratham Community center entrance from materials contributed by Barkers, Scammons and Susan C.
• Jan C and committee will prepare new Exeter Historical Society holiday decorations sometime during Thanksgiving week.
  Design, Ann H
• May meeting presentation “Books in Bloom” is nearly set and Ann will pursue displaying some of the entries for the Stratham library.
• Committee costs for Yuletide fair are minimal, with containers and most materials being donated. Nov. workshop participants expected to donate a container.
  Horticulture, Ann H
• Members asked to bring cuttings from their gardens to the October general meeting.
• Patti E says Exeter Library seed library is strong on borrowers, with no one returning seeds. Exeter librarian will talk to a group that is regularly depleting the seed supply. Patti will check with Stratham library for future home. Vicki has seeds to package, Patti will consider offering a seed saving workshop. Rolling Green will donate 2022 remaining seeds and Lee C will check with Scammons.
  Hospitality, Nancy D
• They will have December luncheon sign up at the October meeting.
• Luncheon is December 8, 11:30 at the Wentworth golf club. Cost is 35$ to be paid to Ginny T. A 15$ gift swap will be done by birthdate this year.
  Membership, Nickky J
• New member advocate/buddy program has begun. Assigning current member to support new member into club activities.
• Ways and Means, Johann StL
• Design workshop for gourd, dry and fresh arrangement’s is Friday November 18, 1 to 5 at the Stratham Municipal Ctr.
• Table committee will set up mock display area at the Nov 18 workshop.
• Need cash box, Fair set up 7 to 9 am November 19. Sign- up sheet passed and will be at Oct meeting.
• Three vehicles available for transport/ storage of wares:
  Vicki B. Display set up
  Lee C. Arrangements etc.
  LuAnn F. Bulbs

Meeting adjourned 11 am
Lee C., Recording Secretary

November 3, 2022 Board Meeting at 9:30 – TBD either at LuAnn F’s home or at today’s venue.
December 1, 2022 Board Meeting at 9;30 – Wiggin Memorial Library – Community Room

Treasurer’s Report/Ginny Tremberth
Below is a recap of the Activity for the month of September 2022 for the Oct Board Meeting
Income: $125.00 Membership $50
Promise Tree $10 (Mad hatter)
CBD Jars $45
Raffle $20

Expenses: $286.11 Memorial $98.50 (Ogunquit Art & Bloom)
Administration $82.50 (June Installation)
Awards $105.11

We have a balance of $8,195.90 In the TD Bank
$ 17.70 in the Peoples Account (need to verify with Susan)

Total Balance $8,213.60

EAGC General Meeting – September 15, 2022

Stratham Fire Station, Morgera Room

President Pat N called the meeting to order at 10 am with 40 in attendance.

• Welcoming old and new members with VP Vicki B. assisting. 
• -Thank yous we’re made to the Hospitality Committee led by Ginny B.  Pat explained that all members are hospitality members as our meetings and luncheons are structured.
• A thank you was made to Max F. for the new yearbook and her helper Linda VdC.
•  The meeting room doors open at 8:45 for set up for which the club is responsible, 9:30 to 10:00 am is social time with meetings beginning at 10 am.
• Any member to attend a board meeting when they are held the first Thursday of most months at 9:30 am at a board members’ homes, with notice to the hostess in advance.  The next meeting is October 6 at the home of Susan C.
• Explained to the membership of the Boards decision to ask the membership for a vote to amend Article 3 Section 3/Membership Fees of the EAGC bylaws to assign half payment for members joining after January 1 in any given year.  The motion for amendment was moved by Jan B., seconded by Paige C. and accepted unanimously.

Vice President Vicki B.

• Today there is a silent auction of available CBD products gifted to the EAGC by a former program presenter.
• Linda S. Will be heading up the scholarship committee this year.

Secretary Lee C

• President Pat N called for the acceptance of the minutes of the May meeting as presented on our website and in hard copy today at the membership table.  Linda VdC so moved seconded by LuAnn F. The motion was voted unanimously.

Treasurer Ginny T

• reported on income from August and the change to a new bank and initiation of voucher system for requesting funds or repayment. 
• The checkbook balance is $8,409.71.

Pat N – September meeting is always the time to learn about what our committees really do and then take time to break off into committee groups to introduce yourselves and plan for the coming year. Before that — the upcoming Yuletide Fair planners need some time.

Ways and Means Johann StL

Yuletide fair; Lee C and Johann StL and Dianna T.

• The fair is November 19th at the Cooperative Middle School 9 am til 2pm. A sign up to work at the fair will be available at the October meeting.  Lee C thanked the EAGFWC for allowing our club to participate.
• Under the auspices of the Design Committee there will be a large combined workshop to prepare arrangements and other decor for fair sale on November 18 1pm to 5 pm at the Stratham Municipal Center. Dianna T showed her mini gourd arrangements.
• Patti E showed cork ornaments. Workshop Sept 30.
• Pat N showed small pine cone wreaths for table arrangements/candle ring. Workshop October 10 – 2..
• Betsy V asked for clean containers for bulbs, especially larger ones for amaryllis.
• Jill C. Needs holiday card stock with clean back side for making labels.
• Lee C. Reported a summer workshop has produced shell items under the direction of Abbie-Jane.

Committee Reports – each chairman also provided brief description of the committee’s role  (and some competitive lobbying for new committee members).

Awards Mary-Jo C

• “Best committee”! says Mary Jo 
• Will present awards at October meeting.
• Seeking new chair, will stay on to help

Communication Coordinator, LuAnn F

• assisted by Patti E and Jennifer H will continue to cover the website, Facebook and publicity for club functions.

Design Ann H

• Thanked Lee C for her Second-Place popular choice arrangement she made to represent the EAGC in the Ogunquit American Art Museum’s June “Art in Bloom” contest.  It was a first for Lee and the EAGC.
• The design program in May will feature “Books Make Me Bloom” with five members already prepared to make arrangements. Theme base on a favorite children’s book.

Environment and Conservation, Betsy V.

• Presented this year’s focus will be “Water Solutions/Conservation” and pests and bugs.  The committee will present the February meeting program.

Hospitality Nancy D.

• Has arranged the holiday luncheon at the Wentworth Golf Club for December 8. 
• June luncheon chair Paige C is working on a June date and location. TBD

Membership, Meredith S.

•  Reported the club has 57 members and introduced Jane J. A new member today.
• Meredith says “best committee”! to get to know all the members.

Horticulture Ann H

•  Ann H then responds that Horticulture is then “the pinnacle committee of the EAGC”!
• Bring something from your yard, flower, branch – for shared display in Oct, Nov and May
• Would like to plan some summer 2023 field trips – bring her any ideas, just got some info on lavender farms in the area.

Program Vicki B

• referred members to the new yearbook for this year’s programs and asked for future ideas.

Ways and Means Johann St.L

• drew the 50/50 raffle winning ticket, Linda S was Lucky today!

Business Meeting adjourned at 11:10. Broke into committee groups and rotated after 15 minutes.

Submitted by Lee C, Recording Secretary

EAGC Board Meeting – September 1, 2022

The members gathered at Pat Navin’s home. Meeting was called to order at10:03 am after a social and refreshment time. 16 members in attendance.

President Pat N.

• Presented information from the survey circulated in June. 
• There were many questions and comments regarding the demise of our Exeter band stand commitment.  The Exeter DPW “Adopt a Garden” program will be explored and civic beautification committee will revisit our participation in the spring of ‘23.
• The board meeting time of 9:30 am has been reinstated.
• The board recommended a bylaws amendment to cover the split of dues be taken to the membership for a vote at the September meeting.
• The upcoming October 6 board meeting will be hosted by Susan C. And November 3 by LuAnn F. Locations for January 5, Feb 2, March 2 (budget) April 6, May 4 and June 2 meetings are yet to be determined.

Vice-President Vicki B.

•  Reported on updated job descriptions which are on the club website.  New committee chair should review and approve if necessary. Please date updates.
• The club inventory of materials is complete except for the banner which will be replaced ASAP.  Donated aprons have been adapted by Dianna T.

Secretary Lee C.

• The minutes from the June 2 joint board meeting as presented in the club website we’re moved for acceptance by Vicki B, seconded by Betsy V. and approved unanimously by the board members.

Treasurer Ginny T

•  Ginny T/Susan C reported on closing of our former bank account and transfer process to the TD bank in North Hampton which will better meet our needs regarding state requirements, signatures, etc. There is a balance of. $17.70 in the Peoples Bank pending the clearing of one outstanding check.
• August income of $1,030 and a new account balance of $8,374.71. 
• -She is instituting a voucher system for club member transactions.  A copy is on the website, to be copied and used to forward receipts and request funds.

Communication Coordinator LuAnn F.

• A new computer savvy PR person is needed.  Pat N. Will call Jennifer H.
• Another copyright issue has occurred, from a 2013 posting. Our insurer who will send a $250 check to the complainant.  Members are reminded to identify the source of all photos shared to the club.
• Was approached about request Stratham Library for club assistance with gardens. Topic is on hold until Pat N. can clarify expectations.
• The Exeter library asked Patti E.  for participation in diversity festival e.g. pumpkin seed craft, all present rejected project involvement – too busy this fall..  Pat N. will inform Patti E.

Awards Mary-Jo C.

• reported her committee has selected a residential and a civic garden for this year’s excellence awards.  Presentation will be made at the October business meeting.  M.J. will then step down from the Awards chair.

Civic Beautification Linda S., Dianna T.

• reported on the Stratham Memorial Veterans Garden and the AIM garden which are being tended by club members.  The Veterans’ Garden is looking great and maturing. The AIM gardens are weeded, with some loss of plants due to water issues. EAGC’s sign is now at AIM Garden.
• Linda S. and committee have put together a planter at the Stratham Municipal Center entrance with “Special Project” funds which were approved at The June board meeting.  The Stratham BOS extended their appreciation by email.
• Jan C.  will continue to head the Exeter Historical Society holiday projects.

Design Ann H.

• The November 18 workshop will be devoted to preparing holiday arrangements for sale at the November 19 Yuletide fair.  The workshop will include gourd, dry and fresh arrangements presented by Dianna T, Lee C. and Johann St.L and Ann H.
• The May program will be “Books Make Me Bloom” arrangements made by club members based on a favorite children’s book.  A sample photo was shared. 
• The spring workshop is to be determined.

Environment and Conservation Betsy V., Linda VdC

• the committee met in August- as all members chair other committees!  She and Linda VdC will give an update and preview of the committee’s new focus at the October meeting. 
• The E and C committee will present the main program at the February meeting.
• They will be looking for pollinator pathways for grants of $250 and will assure grantees of club committee visitation of gardens.  The grants program will be limited to Exeter and Stratham this year.

Horticulture Ann H.

• Continues to provide the Horticultural Tips.
• Asking members to bring garden cuttings to share at the October, November and May meetings. 
• Plans are being made for a 2023 summer field trip.

Hospitality Carol McC.

• Announced 8:30 opening of door for meeting set up.  We are not responsible for cleanup.
• Nancy D. Is planning our December luncheon with the Wentworth Golf Club.

Membership Meredith S.

• Program chair Vicki B read the 2022/23 programs as presented in the new yearbook available at the September meeting.  She is always interested in hearing about ideas and contacts for programs.

Ways and Means Johann St.L

• reported Susan C. will chair the Promise Tree events.
• Emphasis now is on workshops for our space at the Yuletide fair November 19th.  She is asking workshop chair for reports at the September meeting. Some general discussion followed.
• There will continue to be a sale table and a 50/50 raffle at regular meetings.

Meeting adjourned 11:59 am.

Lee C, Recording Secretary

EAGC Joint Board Meeting

June 2, 2022

The June 2nd, 2022, EAGC board meeting at Susan C.s home began at 11:30 am. There were 15 in attendance.
President Linda S. Welcomed a nearly full board and thanked Susan for hosting and providing beverages, and current board for the potluck luncheon. She explained bylaws review this summer which will include a strategy to even out the numbers of members on committees, and separated Programs and Design. Linda VdeC wishes to add a committee for those without gardens.

Vice President Pat N. Received a thank you note from our scholarship recipient, Zack and shared it with members. Diana T. Said she met Zack at the Exeter H.S. ceremony.

LuAnn F. reported that we will now have an annual fee of $33.48 for our Gmail account.
The May board meeting minutes were moved to accept by LuAnn F. and seconded by Max F. They were unanimously accepted.

Treasurer Susan C. Reported a checkbook balance of $7,435. The check for the program at the Exeter Library has not been returned. Linda will follow up with Patti E.

Civic Beautification: Linda S. Has retrieved the EAGC sign from the bandstand and has permission to place it at the American Independence Museum.

Design: Lee C. Has an update on participation in the Ogunquit American Art museum’s “Art in Bloom” June 24 thru 26. Our arrangement is dedicated to Connie G.

Environment and Conservation co-chairs Betsy V and Linda VdeC talked about the summer review of our mini grant focus and application requirements. The committee will consider pollinator garden requirements and connect with a pollinator garden organization for information. They will consider limiting the area of eligibility for grantees. A suggestion was made to consider requiring periodic photos of projects selected for grants.

Hospitality chair Jill C estimated our luncheon participation at 48 and has received 47 reservations and made food choices known to the Portsmouth Country Club. It is suggested committee members and plant auction helpers arrive at 10:30, plant donators at 10:45 and the auction begin at 11 am with lunch served at 12:30 pm. There is no planned program beyond installation of officers.

Membership: Max will be available to take photos at the luncheon. She needs to receive changes to the yearbook by July 31. Lee C. will draft an update of the club description.

Meredith S. will resume membership chair and says committee has reviewed its goals and will implement a buddy program for new members and perhaps have small new member meetings. There will be more members at the membership table.

Ways and Means: Johann S. says the plant auction has the necessary helpers. Yuletide fair workshop signups will be at the membership table on June 15 luncheon. Betsy V. Initiated a discussion of items we will offer at the fair. She strongly suggests they be garden related. Lee C. Reiterated the application to the EAFCWC included holiday themed wreaths and arrangements, pinecone wreaths and decor, potted bulbs and decorations made with natural elements. The committee will continue to vet items as described. Vicki B will work in our display with Johann and Betsy will order suggested quantities of bulbs and containers will initially be sought from members. Red twig dogwood bundles will be added to the inventory if and as available.

New President Pat N. passed out a survey to determine board meeting times etc.
Lunch began at 12:30 pm.

Submitted by Lee Cooper

EAGC General Meeting

May 19, 2022
President Linda S opened the meeting at 10 am welcoming 36 members and guests. She thanked her nominating committee, Ann H., LuAnn F, Pat N., and Meredith S.

For the slate of officers for the 2022/23 year as follows: President, Pat N.; Vice President, Vicki B.; Communications Coordinator, LuAnn F.; Secretary, Lee C.; Treasurer, Ginny T. Jill C made a motion to accept the Slate as presented and Susan C. seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Committee changes/additions were announced as follows, Civic Beautification-Linda Sadlock AIM, Dianna T. Veterans Garden, Design chair will be assisted by Patti S., Mary Ann J. will assist with Horticulture, Carol McCubrey will chair Hospitality with Nancy D, Abbie Jane A, Linda Sz, and Ginny B. organizing the holiday luncheon and Paige C. the instillation luncheon. Meredith S. will return to chair Membership with Lisa C. Nickky J. and Judy R. will assist at the meetings. Max F. will continue to publish the Yearbook. The following officers, committees need assistance: LuAnn F, Communications, Vicki B. Programs, Johann St L, Way and Means.

Linda reported according to Pat N., the scholarship will be awarded to Zack H. an SST student.
Communications coordinating, assistant Patti E. sent a reminder of 2 programs at the Exeter Library. John Forti will speak on Tuesday the 24th at 6 pm the Heirloom Gardener: Traditional Plants and Skills for the Modern World. Thursday the 26th at 6:30 a nature documentary film My Garden of a Thousand Bees will be aired.

Treasurer Susan C. Presented the 22/23 budget and spoke of fluidity and changing needs. The budget total is $10,225. There was a motion to accept by Vicki B. and seconded by Linda V d C. The budget was passed unanimously.

Awards chair MJC spoke of the committee meeting at her home May 26 to organize the list of gardens both commercial and residential to be considered to for this year’s awards. She said this is her last year as chair and would like an assistant to work with her for the future.

Civic Beautification activities were reported by President Linda S. The Veterans Garden was cleared for the season on May 11th. A list for volunteers to maintain the garden was circulated. AIM activities included a massive cleanup of the garden beds by club members, Yeti owner, and a 6-person volunteer crew from Liberty Mutual. The beds were planted with the new shrubs and mulched. The first perennials will be installed May 23rd at 10 by club members.

Design: Ann H and Lee C. Are working on an interpretative arrangement for Art in Bloom at the Ogunquit American Art Museum June 24 thru 26 in honor of Connie G.

Environment and Conservation: Betsy V shared a “violet” quiz with the membership.

Horticulture: Today’s program will be on Spring Herbs presented by club member Carol C.

Hospitality: Jill C thanked hostess Susan C, and her committee; Johann St. L, Lee C, and Melanie McG for today’s refreshments. She reported the spring luncheon on June 15 is filling up. Members should wear hats.

Membership: members are reminded to fill out renewal forms. Max will do new photos or renew old ones for members for next year’s yearbook.

Ways and Means: Johann thanked members for yard sale assistance which produced $1,082.01 with a penny from the floor! There was a 50/50 raffle and a sale table. Members are needed to assist auctioneer Max F. With this year’s plant auction at the spring luncheon.

Yuletide Fair workshop leaders shared descriptions of their crafts. Abbe Jane showed her holiday shells, Linda Sz shared her pins, Diana T. described gourd arrangements for Thanksgiving tables. Johann exhibited a eucalyptus ornament, and Jill and Betsy will organize gift bulb materials for the November meeting workshop to produce our bulb gift wares.
Promise Tree: Jill C and Jan C will host a Mad Hatter party July 21. A signup sheet is available.
The meeting adjourned to Carol C’s Spring Herb program.

Respectfully submitted,
Lee Cooper

EAGC Board Meeting

May 5, 2022

EAGC board meeting May 5, 2022, hostess, Betsy V.
President Linda S welcomed board members at 1:15. She thanked the nominating committee of Ann H., LuAnn F., Pat N., Meredith S. for preparing the slate of officers to be presented to the membership at the May meeting. The Slate is President Pat N., Vice President Vicki B., Communication Coordinator, LuAnn F., Secretary Lee C., and Treasurer Ginny T.

Changes in committee chairs include Civic Beautification: AIM, Linda S.; Veterans Garden, Dianna T.; Jan Cowan, Exeter Historical Society. Hospitality: Meetings, Carol McC,; holiday luncheon, Nancy D.; June luncheon, Paige C. Membership: Meredith S. and Lisa C.

Linda reported that AIM will soon have a new director. Karen is currently working with their Yeti contractor to obtain plants and organize beds according to the committee approved plan submitted to the AIM last fall. Friday a crew from Liberty Mutual will be doing cleanup of grounds under EAGC and Yeti direction.

A by-laws review committee is being assembled to consider the club’s changing needs. Linda V de C wishes to be included to represent those who have limited garden space.

Vice President Pat N. Has secured information in support of scholarship candidate Z. A check will be presented to him but will be made out to Great Bay Community College, his chosen school. Members will try to attend the presentation.

Patti E reports the Exeter seed library is in good shape. The check sent to support the library’s Forti program was too late for our inclusion. We will request a return and consider additional support requests in future.

The minutes of the April meeting were moved for approval by Ann H. And seconded by Betsy V. Approved by a unanimous vote.

Treasurer: there is a checkbook balance of $6,603.77. The board reviewed the budget proposal for 2023/24 and recommended a $200 increase in special projects and changes to design, and horticulture budgets.

Awards committee will have a meeting May 26 to plan their garden tours.

Civic Beautification: Veterans Garden chair Dianna T. met with Donna W, outgoing chair, and an email went to past maintenance crew members for spring cleanup on Wednesday May 11 at 9:30 am.

President Linda S. has recommended installing and maintaining containers of flowers for the Stratham town center and Library entrances. She is waiting for approval from the BOS. We will be setting up the Morgera room for meetings in future and dates for the coming year’s meetings have been given to the town clerk’s office. Pat N. will continue to interface with town officials.

Design: Ann H. Spoke of the planned visits to the Ogunquit American Art Museum in preparation to participating in their planned flower painting interpretation event June 24 thru 26. She and Lee C. Will be collaborating to produce an entry in memory of Connie G. Patti S. Will assist the design chair in future.

Program: Vicki B. would like a co-chair. Ann H. will assist.

Environment and Conservation: Betsy V. Spoke of pollinator mini grant focus changes emerging. One question is to consider including private gardens.

LuAnn F has received a request from Riverwoods regarding arboretum tours.

Hospitality: Jill C. Reports the June luncheon signups are going well. The activity begins with the 11 am plant auction with lunch at 12:30 followed by installation of officers by Ann C.
Johann will ask Ginny T to handle the money at the auction.

A June 2 joint board meeting is being considered. Jill will arrange it.

Ways and Means: Johann presented the draft of her final yard sale report, with future recommendations. Lee C asked for input on the Yuletide fair project space size and on scheduling workshops for our sale items to be produced.

Respectfully submitted,
Lee Cooper

EAGC General Meeting

April 21, 2022

The EAGC April 21, 2022, meeting began at 10 am in the Morgera Room at the Stratham Fire Department.
President Linda S. Welcomed members and guests. She then announced the slate of officers for 2022/2023 which will be voted on at the May meeting. The slate is: President, Pat N., Vice President, Vicki B, Communication Coordinator, LuAnn F., Secretary, Lee C., Treasurer, Ginny T.

Vice President Pat N. Reviewed the status of our scholarship award and asked members for input on criteria selection. After some discussion, it was recommended the scholarship be given to the most qualified applicant and his school. The criteria need to be reviewed and updated.

Communication Coordinator LuAnn F was asked by the RB/LBH garden club to invite our members to attend their John Forti heirloom garden program June 14. It was noted we are already helping to sponsor such a program with the Exeter Library on May 24.

Treasurer Susan C. Said our finances remain in good shape with a $6100.00 balance in the checkbook.
Civic Beautification co-chair Paula F. Has given the bandstand flower boxes to the town of Exeter, as they have taken over responsibility for the bandstand decoration in the future.

Design Chair, Ann H. Reminded members to sign up for the May 18, 2-4 Tussle Mussie workshop at the municipal center.

Horticulture: The May program will be on herbs, presented by club member Carol C.
Membership: Our newest member, Mary Ann J., was introduced by Meredith S.
Ways and Means chair, Johann St.L reminded members to sign up to help with the April 30 Yard Sale.
The speaker drew the winning 50/50 raffle ticket.

Committee member, Lee C introduced a new project for fall fundraiser. We will be participating in the EAGFWC sponsored Yuletide fair at the Cooperative Middle School in November, with a space to sell holiday decorations. A series of workshops is being planned for members to make such items. Volunteers are welcome to lead workshops between now and November.
Thirty-six members were in attendance.
Submitted by Lee C.

EAGC Board Meeting

April 7, 2022

The EAGC board met at 1pm in the home of Vice President, Pat N. On April 7, 2022.
President Linda S. Welcomed members. Treasurer Susan C. Gave out the preliminary budget and asked the board to look it over and respond with any additional needs. Our finances are in good shape as we have not spent intended funds on several projects. Members mentioned the need for the board to have a special project account for use at the board’s discretion. Linda will resend the budget committee notes to Susan and the board.

Linda told the board there were no volunteers for the nominating committee so she will form a committee and meet. There is an issue with finding a vice presidential candidate as it implies a four-year commitment, and the club members’ ages make that an issue. The bylaws committee needs to address this issue asap.

Linda mentioned there was no response from the AIM regarding help with their gardens. Our committee’s recommendations were sent to the director and the plans were delivered in January. Linda will follow-up with an email regarding their intentions.

Vice President Pat N. Reported there are no suitable scholarship candidates at the SST. The scholarship committee needs to review and revise our scholarship criteria considering changes in environmental sciences and areas of study.

Communication Coordinator: Patti E. received seed donations from Rolling Green nursery and 2000 packets from the pollinator grant program for our seed library. The board discussed a request from the library to support their Forti program. The board discussed the content of his program as it relates to our needs. A motion was made by Jill. C. and seconded by Susan to support the program with a donation. The motion passed by majority vote.

Treasurer Susan C. Is still pursuing bank policies with our present bank.
The 2023 budget committee draft as passed out will be finalized for the April 21 meeting for a vote of approval by the membership.

Civic Beautification changes were reported and discussed. Paula F. Co-chair is leaving the area and this puts our decorating with and maintenance of flowers at the Exeter Bandstand in question. Board members mentioned the issues we face in maintenance of this project with an aging membership and the recent change in attitude of Exeter officials in supporting the project. The consensus was that we discontinue this project for the foreseeable future. Pat N. and Ann H. will meet with the Exeter officials and pending clarification from town officials of their intentions, Jill C. Moves we do not put up and maintain flower boxes at the bandstand this year. The motion was seconded by Vicki B. The vote was unanimous.
The Stratham Veterans Memorial Garden needs a chair to organize and schedule maintenance as Donna W. has resigned due to health issues.

Design/program: Ann H. Reported the Ogunquit Me. Art Museum has asked us to participate in their June design contest. Ann would like the garden club to provide funds for expenses of committee members who will represent the club in traveling to and from Ogunquit on several occasions and who will design and produce an arrangement according to the museum’s requirements. Ann and Lee C. will be coordinating their efforts. The museum function is in late June and may be a fun outing for club members. A motion was made by Vicki B to provide $100 in support of participation, seconded by LuAnn and voted unanimously. It was suggested the funds be used in recognition of Connie Gilmore and use funds donated in her memory.,

Horticulture: Carol C. Will present our May program.

Hospitality: Jill C. Announced the June luncheon will be $40 for members and $45 for guests. There is a $400 room rental at the Portsmouth country club. The event will be indoors with a plated meal, installation of officers, and the plant auction featuring our own auctioneer, Max F. This year the auction will be organized by the Ways and Means committee. Jill C. Is stepping down from hospitality chair and she suggested some reorganization of the responsibilities might be considered for the future.

Membership needs a new chair. Registration Forms will be submitted to the Communication Coordinator. The cut off for payment of dues was discussed and a 1-time exemption of payment in June 2022 for those joining after January 1, 2022, was moved by Linda V. and seconded by LuAnn, unanimously voted.

Ways and Means chair Johann St. L announced approval by Stratham selectmen for our use of community space at the town hall on Sat April 30 for our indoor yard sale. The club will have two or three tables to sell baked goods and garden related items and plants. Fifteen tables will be available for rental by the public at $30 per table. Rental applications will be made to Treasurer Susan C using a P.O. box. Lee will explore signs at fire house and Foy’s in Exeter. Patti will do Facebook. Jennifer H. will be asked to contact online sites to advertise. Johann will contact newspapers.

Decisions made:
A donation will be made to the Exeter Library for the John Forti program from the balance remaining in the Program budget.
Civic Beautification will not be planting, installing, or maintaining the flower boxes at the Exeter Bandstand this year.
One hundred dollars from the donations to the club in Connie’s memory be used to fund the Art in Bloom program at the American Art Museum in Ogunquit, ME
Membership will be extended until June 2023 for people who joined the club after January 1st, 2022.

The next board meeting is May 5th at Betsy’s.

Submitted by Lee Cooper

EAGC General Meeting

March 17, 2022

President Linda S. Opened the meeting at 10 a.m. with a welcome to new members and a request for volunteers to contact her for the nominating committee.
Treasurer Susan C. Gave a brief report of recent income and status quo of the checking account.

Awards chair Mary Jo C. requests possible garden award candidates to be sent to her.
Civic Beautification co chair Paula F. suggested we review our commitment to the Exeter bandstand flower boxes. She also announced that she is moving to PA and Donna Wilson is stepping down as chair of the Stratham Veterans Memorial Garden maintenance group. Co chair Jan C. Will continue to oversee the Christmas decoration commitments.

Ann H has a Design workshop scheduled for May 18 at the Stratham municipal center.
Vicki B gave the horticulture report with pictures of native Viburnums as helpful Spring blooming shrubs with pollinator and bird benefits and colorful appeal in all seasons. She mentioned a new “Brandywine” non native variety as another option.

Environment and Conservation co chair reiterated there is a moratorium of all grants.
Hospitality chair Jill C. sent a reminder that the June luncheon will be Wednesday June 15 at the Portsmouth Country Club. She also asked that Linda S. thank Dianna T. and her committee for today’s table décor and refreshments.

Membership chair Max F. introduced two guests and there was a total of 28 in attendance.
Ways and Means chair Johann St L. raffled today’s plant centerpiece for the Promise Tree and thanked members for their sale table donations. The committee is reconsidering having an indoor yard sale in late April or May.
The meeting ended at 10:17 am with Vicki B. Introducing Brian Burris of “ Two Bees Produce”, today’s speaker.

Submitted by Lee C.

EAGC General Meeting

February 17, 2022

The meeting was convened at 10 am with President, Linda Sadlock, welcoming members and guests. The meeting was held in the Morgera Room of the Stratham fire house. There were thirty in attendance.

Linda S. announced that the Nominating and Budget committee would be meeting in March to begin planning for the new year.  If interested in joining, please let Linda know. Linda also offered a green goddess soup at the end of the meeting to help us bring out our “inner goddess” and the recipe will be available on the website.

It was noted that there is now an organic saffron farm in Vermont. Calabash Gardens is the first black, worker and women owned farm in the Northeast to produce high quality, organically grown saffron! Saffron is grown from crocus bulbs that flower in the fall and can be grown in your own garden as well.

Vice President:  Pat Navin, no report

Communications Coordinator: LuAnn Faber, no report

Recording Secretary:   Lee Cooper absent, no approval of previous minutes conducted

Treasurer:  Susan Canada, no report

Awards:  Mary-Jo Chadwick and Claire Mc Grail no report

Civic Beautification:  Paula Francese and Jan Cowan no report

Environment & Conservation:   E&C will be picking a native plant to present on each month. This month, LuAnn spoke about Agastache, also known as Anise Hyssop. It is a native plant that is very attractive to pollinators and grows in almost any soil except moist soil. It grows in 2-3 foot clumps, and self-sows. Its purple flowers are a great cut flower and licorice-flavored leaves make an excellent tea.

Horticulture:  Ann Hohenberger no report

Hospitality:  Jill Compton provided a lovely houseplant table setting for hospitality. A delicious spread of food was provided by Jill and her committee members Ann Hohenberger, Jan Cowan, Carol McCubrey and Carol Chambers. Jill reminded everyone that she is looking for assistance with the annual luncheon. 

Membership:  Max Forward welcomed new member Alice Iverson to the club, and guest Lizbeth Fisher.

Ways & Means:  Johann St. Laurent – some sales were made at the Promise Tree table. Thanks to members who have made a donation of an item or service to the Promise Tree. Thanks to member for making purchases. Donations are always welcome.

Design & Programs:  Vicki Burns welcomed speaker James Brewer. Mr. Brewer is a landscape architect who moved to New Hampshire from England and conducts garden design consultations and primarily large garden installations. We enjoyed his beautiful photos and fun gardening stories.

The next general meeting will be held Wednesday, March 17 in the Morgera Room at the Stratham Fire Station.

Submitted by Patti Elwell

EAGC Board Meeting

February 3, 2022

The meeting was convened at 1:21 by President, Linda S. There were eight in attendance: Linda S., Pat N. Johann, Betsy, Jill, Ann H, LuAnn, and Linda V.

A budget meeting will be held on March 3rd. Attending will be Susan, Linda S. And Johann. Other members who would like to participate should contact Linda S.
The Nominating Committee for next year’s board will meet in March. Linda S. and Pat welcome members to suggest board members and/or attend the meeting.

Pat. N. reported on the proposed purchase of a 2’x4’ banner. The banner’s cost, $40. Adding grommets and bungie cords would add $24.95. Linda V. Made a motion which was seconded by Betsy to make the purchase. The motion passed unanimously.

Scholarship – Pat reported that Ann DeMarco has one candidate who is working on plants. She inquired if we would be open to awarding funds to a student in Environmental Sciences. We asked for more details on what that involves. Ann will send that info along when she receives it. Student names will be forwarded for consideration by EAGC. An offer to tour the school was put off until next year.

Recording Secretary – A motion to accept the minutes of the last meeting was made by Betsy seconded by LuAnn and approved unanimously.

Treasurer – Susan reports a balance of $7324.28. An audit of last year’s accounts was completed by Ginny T. A couple of items required further documentation which has been provided.

Awards & Civic Beautification had nothing to report.

Design & Programs – EAGC will host James Brewer on February 17th at the regular meeting. Other garden clubs will not be invited. Linda S. Will present the March Horticulture Moment — Green Goddesses. Ann suggested that we might arrange a trip to the Art in Bloom being held at the Ogunquit Museum on June 24-26. It was suggested that this might be a good project for EAGC to host at a future time.

Environment & Conservation – Betsy and Linda V. Reported that the committee has decided to proceed with the Exeter Pollinator Corridor Grants even though the Exeter Library did not receive the hoped for honorarium. With Patti’s assistance they will work with the Exeter Library to publicize the grants which will be offered in amounts up to $100 to plant native pollinator plants in the Town of Exeter.

Hospitality – Jill reported that she has been in discussion with the Portsmouth Country Club regarding the June luncheon. They have increased their room fee, which could be reduced if a member of EAGC was also a club member. LuAnn was asked to send out an email to our members to see if anyone is indeed a golf club member. The luncheon would be on Wednesday, June 15. It was decided to proceed with the plant auction for this year.

Membership – We have a new member this month – Margaret Potvin of Rye.
It was also mentioned that Connie Gilmore’s obituary will be in newspaper later this month. There will be no service.

Ways & Means – Johann reported that there are not many new items on the Promise Tree.

The meeting was adjourned at 2:26.

Submitted by Linda V.

Decisions Reached:
-To purchase a 2’x4’ banner including grommets and bungie cords.
-To have LuAnn canvas members to see if anyone is also a member of the
Portsmouth Country Club.

EAGC General Meeting

January 20, 2022

Call to Order: The meeting was called to order at 10:00 by President Linda Sadlock. There were drawings for the beds at the American Independence Museum. Volunteers to help with the project are welcome.

President: Linda welcomed everyone to the meeting. The Nominating Committee for next year’s officers will soon be meeting. Please contact her if you are interested in serving on that committee.

Vice President: Pat Navin has looked into ordering a new banner for the club. She has contacted Ann DiMarco at the Seacoast School of Technology regarding scholarship candidates for the coming year.

Treasurer: Susan Canada reported a balance of $7098.28.

Environment and Conservation: Linda Van de Car reported that E&C will not be recommending the usual Mini Grants this year. The Exeter Library is hoping to receive a grant and asked us to partner with them to create a “Pollinator Pathway” in town. Awards would be given to local residents who plant or expand appropriate plants.

Membership: New members Nickky Jackson and Margaret Potvin were welcomed to the club.

Ways & Means: Johann St. Laurent reminded members that there were items for sale at the Promise Tree table and also a 50/50 raffle.

Program: Vicki Burns introduced our speaker, Sarah Marcoux from the UNH Extension Service. Sarah’s program was “Herb Gardening.”

Adjournment: The business portion of the meeting adjourned at 10:35.

Respectfully submitted,
Susan Canada

EAGC Board Meeting

January 6, 2022

The meeting was convened at 1:22 by President, Linda S. There were nine in attendance: Linda S., LuAnn, Pat N., Susan, Vicki, Betsy, Linda V, Jill C., and Johann. The need for a new banner was discussed. Pat N. will check into the price for a heavy-duty plastic, 2×6 banner and report back.

LuAnn discussed a solicitation from the Native Plant Trust in Framingham, MA for our club to join their Plant Conservation Volunteer program., whose purpose is to monitor & manage rare and endangered native plants in New England. LuAnn will find out what at membership entails in terms of cost and members’ time and will report back to the board.

Linda S. reported on an invasive species program she attended and will give the speaker info to Vicki for possible speaker.

Patti’s proposal that EAGC participate with the Exeter Library as a community partner in its application for a grant from HHMI Tangled Bank Studios and PBS Nature. The grant involves a $1,000 honorarium, 2000 regionalized pollinator-friendly wildflower seed packets for distribution, and a variety of informal and formal pollinator-focused educational activity tools. The library would use funds to bring in two speakers for gardening related events, perhaps with the event being co-sponsored by the Garden Club. The grant will be awarded on Jan. 14. A orevious email vote of the board approved our participation.

Recording Secretary – A motion to accept the minutes of the last meeting was made by LuAnn, seconded by Pat, and unanimously approved.

Treasurer – Susan reported a balance of $7,448.22, with revenue coming from dues and the Promise Tree. A $125.95 expense was incurred for holiday decorations for the Historical Society.

Design & Programs – Vicki reports that our viewership of the Microgreen video for the next meeting is unknown at this time, but she will pay UNH Extension based on the number of us who tuned in. She will also find out if a recording is available to all club members. An Extension speaker has committed to speak on herbs at the Jan. 20 meeting, with all attendees being masked. As the fire station is open at this time, we agreed to hold the meeting in person, pending changes to fire station policy.

Environment & Conservation – Linda V. and Betsy proposed a new plan for mini-grants for this year only. They want to offer $100 grants, to Exeter residents only, for starting or adding to residential pollinator gardens, with the hope of starting a Pollinator Corridor in Exeter. This would tie in with the Seed Library’s participation in the Exeter Library’s grant application. Patti would coordinate this with the library.

Hospitality – Jill explained that there were 43 holiday luncheons paid for at $35 each, resulting in a small profit of $129, since we were not charged the bartender’s fee. Jill will book the same facility for next year. We have a soft hold on the Portsmouth Country Club for the June Luncheon. The deposit has not been paid. Since we will be masked for much of the next general meeting and fewer members will likely be attending, a smaller amount of refreshments will be required. It will be BYOB, as usual.

Membership – Max will be unable to attend future board meetings due to another commitment. We have a new member this month: Nickky Jackson of Exeter.

Ways & Means – The Promise Tree needs more promises. Linda S. will be offering a variety of soups and LuAnn will make more “wonder wallets.” Linda S. discussed the possibility of a bunco activity. Johann will set up our Sale Table at the next meeting. She will be meeting with Jill and other board members who have experience with the plant auction, since this is a new responsibility for her committee.

Nancy Peterson and her husband have moved west to be with their son. We will try find her new address, so we can formally say goodbye.

The meeting was adjourned at 2:24.

Submitted by LuAnn Faber

EAGC General Meeting

November 18, 2021

The EAGC November 18 meeting was opened by president, Linda S. welcoming 33 members and one guest speaker at 10:20 am.

Communication coordinator, LuAnn F. spoke of making the club website more user friendly and asked members if she could remove “recipes” which takes up a large amount of space. Members were generally negative so the recipes will be made printable, and members are asked to print their favorites in the event they are removed. Members can continue to send input on gardening things, and they will be included in “happenings” to share.

Treasurer Susan C. Gave checkbook balance, after a memorial donation, as $5,980.01.

Civic Beautification: Jan C. Said annual decorating of the Exeter Historic Society will be Monday, November 29 at 9:30 am. She has 9 helpers. Green cutting at Lee’s needs helpers and will be Saturday November 27 or Sunday November 28.

Design workshop December 8 will be finishing large and small pinecone wreaths as Pat N. explained. The time is 2-4 at the Stratham Municipal center. Participants should wear comfortable clothing, bring band aids for fingers and pinecones and other embellishments to add to the prepared wreaths.

Environment and Conservation co-chair Betsy announced a 1-year hiatus of mini grant presentations so the committee can review criteria used for awards.

Horticulture chair Ann H showed photos and spoke of Joe Pye weed including stories of origin of the native plant’s name.

Hospitality chair Jill C. has a signup sheet for the December 9 holiday luncheon. It is to be at 11:30 at the Wentworth Country club in Rye, NH. There will be a $15 gift exchange. She also thanked Abbie Jane and her committee for today’s beautiful table of refreshments.

Johann S. Showed the promise tree blooming with leaves, including one for homemade soup, and shared that today’s sale table included handmade cozies, tea holders and mini wallets as well as other offerings. She said there is still space to sign up for the December 20 cookie swap though the white elephant swap is filled.

The meeting adjourned to today’s program at 10:47 am.

EAGC Board Meeting

November 4, 2021

The EAGC November board meeting at the home of Lee C. was begun at 1:20pm by President Linda S.  She spoke about the Memorial service for Edie W.  The club’s donation recipient suggested by her family is Special Olympics.  Linda requested a motion to fund the seed project, and 50$ was motioned by Susan C. And seconded by Mary-Jo C. And voted unanimously.

Communication Coordinator LuAnn F. spoke of an update needed for our website and asked for suggestions to simplify it.  Things like “recipes” are no longer used for example.  Membership will be asked for input and assistance.  She also updated job descriptions on the website and asked committee chairs to review and update.

A motion to accept the October board meeting minutes taken by Pat N. was

Made by LuAnn F. and seconded by Betsy V. was unanimously approved.

Treasurer Susan C. reported a checkbook balance of $6813.01 and said the audit was pending.  

Vice President, Pat N. talked about the design workshop scheduled for December 8 at the Stratham Municipal Center.  She described the process of making pinecone wreaths and decorating mason jars for the holidays.  Members will be asked to bring what supplies they may have.  Lee C. May have a fresh peony display to share. According to Ann H, the Thursday November 19th meeting program will feature Jillian Arquette, owner of Fruition Flowers in Newmarket, NH.  Her talk is titled “The Importance of Local Flowers”.

Environment and Conservation co-chair Betsy V. Announced the committee has decided to take a year off from giving mini grants.  They plan to explore options to make the program better, including revising the application.  She said she has already researched a sampling of garden clubs across the country offering similar programs and we are more demanding than most.  Co-chair Linda V de C. said there is a lot to mull over including grant amounts awarded.  However new boundaries and encouraging native pollinators are already showing some success.

Hospitality chair Jill C. announced the Holiday luncheon at the Wentworth country club on December 9th will feature a plated meal with choices of beef, cod, or vegetable entrees for $35.  Fifteen-dollar gifts will be exchanged.  Mary-Jo C. suggested a mixer activity be included.  The number expected is 40 members.

Ways and Means chair Johann St.L. said we have a date of December 13 for BetsyV’s swap shop party for 18 members and Susan C. volunteered to host a cookie swap December 20.  Signup sheets will be at the November 19th meeting at the Stratham Fire Station Morgera meeting room.  Johann encouraged members to bring leaves for the promise tree of items to sell.

The meeting adjourned at 2:30 pm.  The next meeting will be hosted January 6, 2022, by Susan C.

Respectively submitted,

Lee Cooper

EAGC General Meeting

October 21, 2021

The meeting began at 10 am in the Morgera Room of the Stratham fire house, the new meeting location.  

President Linda S. Welcomed members and guests.

Vice President Pat N. Thanked her hospitality committee for today’s beautifully decorated table of refreshments.

Awards co chair Mary Jo C. Thanked her committee for recent input, including looking now at fall gardens as potential award caliber gardens next summer.

Civic Beautification co chair Donna W. Thanked her committee for their dedication to maintaining the SHP Memorial Veterans garden throughout the long summer and fall seasons. She mentioned each week’s caretakers should remind the next week’s caretakers.

Design and Programs:  there will be a design workshop December 8 at the Stratham town hall. More information will be forthcoming.

Environment and Conservation co chairs Betsy V and Linda VdC presented native plants as this year’s topic.  Linda encouraged members to plant more natives and shared information and photos of her garden natives, of which her favorite is Rudbeckia. Photos, specimen and lists of native plants were displayed for members to peruse on the Horticulture Table.

Becky M offered milkweed pods for members to take.  Betsy V will take any left to the fish and game who are collecting pods.

Horticulture and Herbs:  today’s horticulture moment presented by Pat N included tips on getting rid of pests in potted plants, such as fungus gnats.  Solutions for eliminating unwanted pests will be on the EAGC website.  

The horticulture table was filled with beautiful and unusual specimens brought by members.

Hospitality chair Jill C announced the holiday luncheon will be December 9 at the Wentworth Country Club.  She also thanked today’s hospitality committee.

Membership chair Max F. Said there were 27 members present and introduced a new member who joined today.

Ways and Means:  Lee C. Reported Promise Tree activities have made $814.81 since June.  She reminded members to peruse the sale table, buy 50/50 raffle tickets and offered today’s beautiful white pumpkin centerpiece for sale at 15.00.

Vicki B program chair introduced today’s speaker at 10:30.

Submitted by Lee C, Recording Secretary

EAGC Board Meeting

October 7, 2021 Home of Max F., Membership Chair

Attendance: Linda S., Pat N., LuAnn F., Patti E. Mary Jo C., Paula F., Vicki b., Linda V de C., Betsy V., Jill C., Max F., Johann StL.

The meeting was brought to order by the President, Linda S. at 1:24 pm – after everyone had time to tour and enjoy Max’s new home, gardens and view. Light refreshments were served.

President/Linda S

• American Independence Museum (AIM), Exeter; the AIM Director, Emma Stratton had approached EACG for assistance with its gardens. AIM had lost its last volunteer gardener. AIM is mid-point in a huge project resolving water drainage away from the building which resulted in destroying most of the longstanding landscaping. AIM has some assistance from Yeti Landscaping for plants and mulch and also, a member of DPW will help with moving heavy items. There is a shed with electricity and tools on site. There are some foundation plantings and several large pots along walkways. A call was put out for any interested members, LuAnn F. took pictures for initial review, six members visited the site on September 30th and met with Emma/director and Sabina Ion/pr took some photos. Measurements of gardens were taken, and Karen W. will draw up the site mapping. Ann will look into historical native plantings.
  Active discussion followed on the level of involvement that EAGC is able and/or able to commit to this project.
  Jill C. moved to accept the special committee. Max F. seconded it. All were in favor. Current group of interested members will move forward to assess the scope of project. This topic will go to General Meeting for further discussion and action.
• Edie W. Information on a memorial for Edie will be posted on the website, and EAGC will donate $50 per family’s preference. Memorial October 17th 2-4 at Great Common Island in Portsmouth, NH. Info to follow.
• Connie G. has broken an arm, not able to cast. She is staying with her daughter.
• Worms – there have been requests for composting worms from outside the club. Info on obtaining worms will be posted on webpage with suggested donation to The Promise Tree.

VP/Pat N

• Three of the EAGC aprons were “found”. Joanna/Ways and Means now has these.
• Banner is still missing.

Recording Secretary/Lee C. out of town – Pat N. taking minutes.
-Minutes from the June 22, 2021, meeting were accepted following a motion by Pat N. which was seconded by Betsy V. All were in favor.

Treasurer/Susan C, not present, report posted

• Current balance $6,917.91 ($180 apple social and $75 PT sale table at Sept 16 meeting).
• Ginny Tremberth has agreed to do our audit with Susan C.

Communications/LuAnn F and Patti Elwell

• Facebook: Please post “like” when you visit- this will increase its visibility online. Mini-grants were posted. Thanks were expressed to Patti E. for all the club posts.
• Seed Library: Patty E. and Diane A. are busy making sure seeds are up to date and labelled. It is still a challenge to track who uses the seed library due to confidentiality/ privacy issues the library must follow. Patty requested $50 to be used for small seed envelopes and labels – Communications budget has no funding for this. Pat N will donate labels she has. Jill C. moved we allow $50 for purchase of supplies. LuAnn F. seconded. All were in favor. Vicki B. suggested, in future, we add a “special projects” line item to the budget for requests such as this.

Awards: Mary-Jo C.

• Nothing new
  Civic Beautification/Paula Francese
• Expressed thanks to everyone who participated in keeping our club sites beautiful.
• Bandstand: The flowers at the bandstand were removed earlier than usual due to problems with the irrigation system. DPW was not responsive to our calls reporting insufficient or no water getting to the boxes. Linda S. reported that historically – geraniums were donated by a member with a garden center, EAGC planted, maintained and wintered – a no cost item for town and club. Currently, EAGC spends $450+ annually on the plants. Frustrations and much discussion followed on how to proceed in the future. Further contact with DPW/Greg Bisson and getting on the agenda for a selectmen’s meeting to determine the town’s position.
• Linda S. added that she had followed up on having a sign at the Veterans Garden. The town and folks involved with this garden prefer to keep it as a solemn remembrance site – so no EAAGC sign to be placed.

Design and Programs/Ann H and Vicky B. Ann emailed her report to all Board Members

• Scott Campbell, Asst. Dir. Wiggins Library, has suggested John Forti, Dir. Bedrock Gardens, as a shared speaker. John has a new book and was recently featured on NH Chronicles. Fee is $500 plus mileage. Unsure if this would be at our meeting date or the WL’s schedule. Vicki will follow up.
• November meeting with Jillian Arquette-Gallager local flower grower (supplies Cymbidium Orchid in Exeter) and beekeeper.
• Looking into a December Promise Tree Workshop – details pending.

Environmental & Conservation/Betsy V. and Linda V de C

• Committee to meet. Have decided their programs will be more single focused, simpler and upbeat.

Horticulture & Herbs/Ann H – written report emailed to all

• Carol Chambers, will provide the May meeting program.
• Suggestions from committee included having a hands-on workshop (e.g., pruning, dividing plants). Possibly a walking tour of Riverwoods Level 2 Arboretum.
• A Committee Member will submit monthly Hort Tips. Assignments have been made – Feb and Aug still open.

Hospitality/Jill C.

• Venue: We had our Sept meeting at the new venue, Stratham Fire Station, and it went smoothly. Jason Pond is our point of contact. He sets up the room at 830 and will reset the room when we are done.
• The water there is unpalatable. Discussion – followed by decision to no longer provide beverages at the meeting.
• No Beverages: There is no longer storage for our large bin. Bin and Coffee Pot offered as Promise Tree items. Announcement about bringing own beverage will be in meeting reminder.
• No coffee or set up – so no need for hospitality crews at arrive before 9am for food set-up. Social time is 9:30.
• Luncheons: Cost of our December and June luncheons will be increased. December luncheon at Wentworth CC is under contract will be $35 or $40. Prefer to keep June event at PCC – no contract yet. Options there are to increase price or decrease food and service – neither seems like a good option to those present.

Membership/Max F

• Please pass along all info about members’ illness or change of situation to Max.

Ways and Means/ Johann StL

• Positive news. LuAnn F.’s Apple Event $190. Sept. Sale Table $75. Hospitality Bin $20. Linda S.’s Dig pending.
• Suggested possibly doing “self-service” 50/50 raffle at meetings

Decisions Made:
AIM committee endorsed
Memorial donation of $50 for Edie granted
Fifty dollars approved for Seed Library supplies

Meeting Adjourned at 2:54pm

Submitted by Pat N./VP

EAGC General Meeting

September 16, 2021, 10 a.m., Morgera Room, Stratham Fire Department

President Linda S. Opened the meeting with explanation of new meeting location, and invited new Membership chair, Max F. To give welcome remarks. Max said we have 58 members including 2 returning members, 3 new members from Spring, and one new member from today. Thirty members were present. There is one major correction in yearbook received today: board meetings will be at 1 pm this year. Max also informed the group that greeting needs should be made known to Florence W., who will continue to send cards.

President Linda S, informed members of a request from the director of the American Independence Museum in Exeter for assistance with their gardens. She is in the process of exploring a collaborative garden effort and has a signup sheet today for interested members.

Vice president, Pat N. reported on inventory and made a plea for members to look for our banner, which is stored in a cardboard cylinder somewhere!

Treasurer Susan C. reported the end of year checkbook balance was $6,238.39, and present balance in $6,664.51 with proceeds from various Promise Tree functions over the summer.

Awards co-chair, Mary-Jo. C. announced eligible gardens will be considered in towns contiguous to Exeter plus Brentwood and Greenland. Members should keep an eye out for likely candidates and inform Awards committee members.

Civic Beautification co-chair Jan C. reported the planters at the bandstand have been removed early as there was an issue with watering.

Ann H of Design and Programs reviewed upcoming events.

Patti E. reminded everyone the seed library is in the Exeter Library and to please “like” EAGC posts on Facebook.

Co-chairs of Environment and Conservation Betsy V and Linda VdC gave a presentation of the projects of mini grant recipients which were less than stellar this year. Mini grants range from $100 to $400 and are awarded in the spring and reviewed in August. The grants totaled $1,800. The committee plans an extensive review of the grant criteria for this year.

Hospitality today was provided by Ginny T, hostess and helpers, Ginny B, Patti S and Joyce H.

Ways and Means chair, Johann St. L. reported Promise Tree earnings already this year of $764.81. Members are asked to think of a possible annual memorial garden tour in honor of Edie W. Johann also requested ideas for continuing Promise Tree events.

The meeting adjourned at 10:37 a.m., to the annual committee planning.

Respectfully submitted,
Lee Cooper

EAGC Executive Board Meeting

August 6, 2021

The EAGC Executive Board meeting of August 6, 2021, convened at 1 pm at the home of President Linda S.

Attendance:  Pat N., Lee C., Susan C., LuAnn F. and Linda S.

Minutes of August 3, 2020, were moved for approval by Susan C and seconded by Pat N.  Approval was unanimous.

Reports of Officers:  the board discussed membership status regarding their address and participation in the club committees. The Yearbook has gone to the printers and will be distributed at the September coffee.

The treasurer reported a checkbook balance at the end of the year was $6,233.33 and is now $6,439.33.

Old Business:  Susan C. Reported no change in the status with Peoples Bank.  She has a letter from the State of NH confirming we do not need to be “registered “. Going forward she will try to get Pat N., Vice President’s signature included on the bank account. EAGC maintains a 501(c)(7) status. It is not a charitable organization and cannot accept taxable donations.  Communication Coordinator LuAnn F. will add this information to the EAGC website.

The job descriptions of committees have not been completed.

Inventory: MaryJo, awards chair, has some stationery, and the club banner is still missing.  Linda S. will search another storage area at the town center.

The Civic Beautification committee reported reasons for the lack of an EAGC sign at the Stratham Veterans Memorial Garden.  The consensus is that it is a sacred place, and no recognition sign is warranted as town officials and printed information clearly recognize EAGC dedication to the beautification and maintenance of the site.

New Business:

Linda S. Rewrote the script for the installation of officers and she will forward a copy to the Communication Coordinator, who will add it to the website.

Susan C. will contact Ginny T. regarding the audit.

The EAGC functions will continue to follow CDC guidelines for COVID-19.

Decisions:

The board unanimously accepted the request from the members who maintain the Stratham Veterans Memorial Garden that no sign is needed.

Meeting adjourned 1:56 pm

Next full board meeting is October 7, 2021 at 1pm.

Submitted by Lee Cooper, Recording Secretary

EAGC Board Meeting

June 22, 2021 – Stratham Municipal Center

The meeting began at 10:08 with President Linda S. welcoming 13 members and going forward with 2021/22 schedules and planning. She brought up the scheduling of future board meetings usually held in October, November, January, February, April, May, and June. An alternate to a morning meeting was discussed with a suggestion of a 1 to 3 pm time. A sign-up sheet was passed for hosting said meetings.

Linda brought up the need for an EAGC sign for the SHP Veterans Garden. LuAnn is researching the source of our Exeter sign. The Stratham town office will be shown appreciation as in the past. The meeting room will be set up will be by town personnel in future. Our club banner is still missing, and Betsy says it is in a tube.

The seed exchange at the Exeter Library is overflowing and a review of needs should include exploring other sites, according to Patti. EAGC has been approached by a nurseryman for support of a possible plant recycling center. LuAnn is communicating with him.

Vice President: Pat N. reported there are 2 possible scholarship candidates at the SST for 2022. The school has not been able to locate the 2020 scholarship recipient and the uncashed check is now void. That award will be removed from our website. LuAnn suggested we consider approaching the Student Conservation Association for candidates. Job descriptions were handed out to the Executive Board and general board members to review and update ASAP for inclusion in the new member packet and perhaps the yearbook. The club property inventory is still incomplete and will be on the website with missing items highlighted.

Communication Coordinator: LuAnn is looking into needs for logo items and how to replicate as needed. Vicki has stationary for 2021/22 needs. Patti E. may have logo thumb drive. Sunshine cards, etc. will be taken on by the membership committee.

Recording Secretary: The May 6 board minutes were moved for acceptance by LuAnn seconded by Betsy, and unanimously approved by the 13 attending members.

Treasurer: Susan C. Discussed registering with the State as a club per bank request. Our status does not meet State requirements as we are only a 501(c)(7) organization. Exploring a new bank or credit union was discussed. Presently she will continue to try to work with the People’s Bank.
Receipts for the SAVERS project totaled $204.29. Paid dues from 51 members so far totaled $1,280, plant auction totaled $752 from 32 of 45 members and 5 of 6 guests. Checkbook total is $6,233.32 including voided scholarship check.

Environment and Conservation: Betsy and Linda reported thankyous from mini grant recipients and that they are redesigning the application to encourage future diversity of applicants.

Horticulture and Herbs: Ann H reported the offer of a program for the May meeting by Carol C. She will set another July Fourth design challenge for members.

Membership/yearbook: Max needs yearbook information by the first week in August. Meredith reported all but a few members renewed. Photos are needed for some for the yearbook.

Design/Program: Vicki and Ann reported there will be two design workshops per year and all programs are scheduled except February. There are no joint meetings scheduled.

Ways and Means: Johann reported on promise tree activities. There will be a July 9 members only garden tour of 3 gardens including Pat S. in Seabrook and Linda S. And Pat N in Hampton.
Lee C will have a garden party in late August or early September depending on weather conditions.
The meeting adjourned at 11:55.

Submitted by Lee C, Recording Secretary

EAGC General Meeting

May 20, 2021 – Stratham Hill Park Pavilion

President Linda S. Called the meeting to order at 10:10 am welcoming 23 members and 4 guests to the first in-person meeting of 2021.

The recently reviewed bylaws changes were presented and a motion to accept was made by Linda VdC, seconded by Vicki B, and voted unanimously.

President Linda S. then explained slate of officer changes per bylaws change and presented the new slate with the Communications Coordinator position to be filled by LuAnn Faber.  Patti E. Motioned to accept the slate as presented seconded by LuAnn F. and voted unanimously.

Treasurer Susan C. explained the budget due to the awkward year of non-spending and little fundraising.  Minor allocations are in the budget for some committees, but remains of budget reflect spending based on prior year’s activity.  Mimi B motioned to accept the budget as presented seconded by Patti E. And voted unanimously.

President Linda S. Thanked Florence W. for her many years as Corresponding Secretary.

Vice President Pat. N. asked committee chairs to forward her any changes in committee description.  She also explained the absence of an SST scholarship award for 2021 and it was mentioned last year’s recipient has yet to cash her check.

President Linda S. Called for a motion to accept the April minutes and Betsy V. motioned and Linda VdC seconded.  The minutes were accepted unanimously.  

Civic Beautification co-chair, Paula F. Asked for one more volunteer for the next day to help with the planting and cleanup of the Exeter Band Stand, Lynda B volunteered.

Environment and Conservation co-chair Linda V dC announced the funding to some degree of all 9 mini grant applications and the need to take a serious look at the grant criteria for the future.  Two applicants have sent thanks for their grants.

Hospitality: It was reported that there will be 48 members and guests accommodated at 6 tables of 8 at the June luncheon.

Membership chair Meredith S. Introduced  4 guests and reminded members to send their membership renewal forms and checks to her.

Ways and Means chair, Johann St. L talked about signing a card for Edie wishing her “Flower Power”.  There are plants for Promise Tree purposes from Paula F. to purchase today.  Johann then asked for input on Edie’s Idea of a garden tour this summer for members only.  Four members offered their gardens and Lee C offered to host a second garden party at a date to be determined.

Betsy V reported for MJ C. Awards Chair that she welcomed ideas for committee description changes.

The meeting adjourned at 10:30 to a design arrangement workshop prepared by Program chair Vicki B. And Design chair Ann H.,  which was a huge success and very much enjoyed by all guests and members.

Submitted by,

Lee Cooper

EAGC Board Meeting

May 6, 2021

President Linda S. Opened the meeting with a welcome for the 11 board members present. She then reported for Vice President, Pat N. That there will be no scholarship given to an SST student this year as the 2 candidates being considered did not meet EAGC criteria. Linda then called for a motion on the previous meeting minutes. Linda VdC motioned and Betsy V. Seconded acceptance. There was a unanimous vote.

Treasurer: The proposed 21/22 budget is being emailed to members for consideration ahead of the May 20th meeting. There are concerns regarding a possible $2,000 deficit due to this year’s Covid 19 restrictions preventing normal fund-raising activities. Budget committee members were Susan C, treasurer, LuAnn F, Jill C., Pat N., Vicki B., Ginny T., and Linda S.

Awards chair, M-J C. Questioned the status of committee descriptions since they are not in the yearbook. They are on the website and will be updated after the proposed changes to the bylaws are approved. The VP will follow up with committee chairwomen.

Civic Beautification: Paula F. Reported satisfactory transactions with Exeter DPW regarding watering of the bandstand planters. She recommends not buying the plants too early as they are a chore to maintain. She plans to use the 20/21 volunteer list for bandstand maintenance. She will ask for any needed extra volunteers at the May in person meeting. She is concerned that the club members maintaining the SHP veterans memorial garden be recognized. Donna W. And her committee are happy to continue to maintain the site. An EAGC sign may be needed.

Design: Ann H. Reported she is working with Vicki B. To secure flowers for the members to use in arrangements at the May 20 meeting. They are meeting with Trader Joe’s on May 12th and hope to have the number of members and guests attending by then. Members were asked by email to contact Vicki B.

Environment and Conservation: Betsy V, and Linda VdC. Reported 9 mini grant applications and all were funded for a total of $1,800. They plan to work with their committee to revamp the application to attract more small businesses and to encourage more local interest.

Herbs: Linda B. Is reported to be delighted with the combining with Horticulture as recommended.

Horticulture: Linda VdC is preparing the “May Moment” for our website in advance of the May meeting.

Hospitality: Jill C. Reported 44 paid reservations for the June luncheon and plant auction, including 7 guests. Her committee decided to cap reservations at 48 due to space for adequate table separation. Webmaster, LuAnn F. will send a reminder to members for plants and preparation instructions for plant donations. Jill C. Reminded the board of subsidies for luncheon costs and possible future budget changes. The December luncheon down payment is due to the Wentworth Golf Club. She will use her 20/21 volunteer list for 21/22 hostess duties.

Membership: Meredith S. Thanked Linda S. for revising the membership application. She is not certain how members will be contacted. Possibly an email will be sent. There is a concern for the expenses involved in mailing and return envelopes. New member gifts are being prepared by Dianna T.

Ways and Means: Promise Tree Chair Johann St.L has new items for sale as emailed to members. The proposed Dahlia project is moved to July.

President: Linda S. Resumed her reporting with the only vacant executive board position of Communications nomination of LuAnn F.
The bylaws committee: Linda S., Jill C., LuAnn F., Susan C., and Pat N. will present the proposed bylaws changes to members via an email prior to the May meeting.

Decisions made: A vote was taken by the board to leave the yearly membership fee at $25. Motioned by Paula F. and seconded by Linda VdC. All were in favor.

We adjourned at 11:00 a.m.

Respectfully submitted, Lee Cooper

EAGC General Meeting

April 15, 2021

President: Linda S. Opened the meeting at 10am. She announced the budget and bylaws committees met this week to finalize presentations for members to consider. The 2019 bylaws committee plus Pat N. was reconvened to consider possible changes identified by the board.

Vice President: Pat N. Is working on a gift tree with the Exeter DPW.

Recording Secretary: The March minutes and attendance were moved by Susan C. and seconded by Linda VdC. Unanimously approved.

Treasurer: Susan C. Reported a $125 expense for videos and that she met this week with the budget committee to prepare for the May meeting. There is a checkbook balance of $6,624.44.

Awards: MJ C, will not be available for June.

Civic Beautification: Paula F. Needs volunteers for the Exeter bandstand refreshing and planting of flower boxes. She is working with Rolling Green’s annual specialist to present an eye-catching color scheme with no dead heading required. Exeter DPW will have a new person in charge of watering which will perhaps need monitoring.

Design: Ann H has announced a virtual design challenge featuring daffodils. Paula F. Donated arranging books which Ann has available to borrow.

Environment and Conservation: Linda VdC has 3 mini grant applications from repeaters. Web Mgr has one new applicant to refer for the new application form. More applications are usually received late in April.

Horticulture: Pat N. Is working on the horticultural moment for this month.

Hospitality: Jill C has received about a dozen checks for the June 16th luncheon so far. She hopes for 30. Guests are welcome. The plant auction will not yet be the responsibility of Ways and Means. She will be using last year’s hospitality calendar to assign monthly duties for next year. Those with conflicts are asked to trade with other members. Johann announced a gift of plants from her sister in laws garden for the auction. Diggers will be needed in near future. Several members volunteered.

Membership: Meredith S. Is waiting for the update of the membership form reflecting committee changes. The fee remains $25.00 per year.

Program: Vicki B. Announced the May meeting can be in SHP at the pavilion to encourage more participation. She is working with Design chair Ann H on a flower arranging workshop. Members may be asked to bring their own containers and holders (oasis) etc. and the club will provide flowers. Lee C. May be able to provide greens. A microphone will be procured. Members can bring their own drinks. Ann H has arranging videos to share with those interested. Committee members will donate extra pots for overflow arrangements to give to community organizations if need be. There will be no joint meetings with Rye and Hampton clubs this year.

Ways and Means: Johann StL has photos of the recent SAVERS fun drive. Twenty-one people participated. There were 2 pickup trucks and one car/trailer filled to the brim with bags and boxes of donated goods which brought in $203.81. Weight was broken down by category. Johann was applauded for her extensive efforts. She said delivery was the most involved part.

Web Manager/ FB: Patti E. Was complimented for her posts. She has received wide ranging responses to our FB page. She said the Seed Exchange has been given 3 large shoeboxes of seeds by the Brentwood Stout Oak farm. Dianne A continues to frequently monitor the seed exchange site at the Exeter library.

The meeting adjourned at 10:30 am to a power point activity of Kelly Ann Mendez video by Vicki B. with lively member participation.

Submitted by, Lee C.

EAGC Board Meeting

April 1, 2021

The EAGC April 1, 2021 board meeting convened by Zoom with 14 members attending.

President Linda S opened the meeting at 10:05 am after a lively social session.  She said there is no budget committee report ready yet.  Previous board meeting minutes were unanimously approved after being moved by LuAnn and seconded by Vicki.

Vice President: absent

Recording Secretary: absent

Treasurer: absent

Awards: no news

Civic Beautification:  Paula F. Reported she is awaiting a response from Rolling Green regarding annuals for the Exeter bandstand project.  Patti E will see person in charge tomorrow.

Design:  Ann H. Received thanks for sharing photos by email.  She would like to have a spring workshop but will settle for a virtual activity.

Environment and Conservation:  Betsy V.  Has still only 2 applicants for mini grants but usually expects the bulk of applicants at the end of April.

Horticulture:  Pat N. Will provide April input for the website.

Hospitality:  Jill C. Has 30 positive responses for the June 16 outdoor luncheon and the Portsmouth Country Club.  The minimum is 25.  She has 15 members planning to supply plants for the auction.  After much discussion, the 14 board members attending indicated a desire to continue with the luncheon plans with one member dissenting.  Jill will send an email requesting 30$ checks be sent to her with a deadline indicated.  Guests will be welcome as usual.  The plant auction will be revised as needed for more Covid safe practices.

Membership:  Meredith S will be mailing membership renewals in May again and will include necessary slate of officers/bylaws change information for members to approve.  The budget will also be included for acceptance.  Max F. asked members to be advised to prepare for updated photos to be taken at the luncheon for the yearbook.  This information will be included in the membership mailing.

Programs: President Linda S. announced no in person meeting for April or May at the Stratham Municipal Center due to attendance restrictions.  She will reserve the SHP pavilion for May as an option.  April will be a virtual presentation by Kerry Ann Mendez.

Promise Tree: SAVERS fund raiser going very well with 16 members participating.  Johann will accept donations at her home through April 10th.  She has 3 pickup trucks for the April 13 delivery of donations.

Web Manager:  LuAnn is working on a creative description of the club in the form of a “rack card,” which will be available at the seed exchange at the Exeter library.

Committee reports over, the board engaged in a lively discussion of proposed Executive board and Committee revisions.  President Linda S. Said her hope is to increase participation of the general membership while decreasing the # of committees and nature of offices to reflect present club function.

The nominating committee recommended the Corresponding Secretary become Communication Coordinator and the Web Manager be moved to that position. She will also oversee Public Relations and Facebook.  The corresponding Secretary duty of sending cards would become the responsibility of the membership committee.

She said the present board appears to be too heavy with 1/2 the membership involved but general membership not as active in committees as would be desirable.

Herbs and Horticulture would be combined, and Ann H is ok with this responsibility.  Monthly presentations could be shared alternating.  The committee might become responsible for making the twice annual luncheon favors.

Hospitality should perhaps be relieved of the fund raising of auction and raffle and those functions moved to the Ways and Means committee.

Ways and Means new chairperson is Johann St L. She has demonstrated creativity and organization with the Promise Tree and most recently with the SAVERS fund raiser.  She will need new committee members.

President Linda S. Said members may be asked to join 2 committees in the future, but this was not recommended by those present.

Awards and Civic Beautification will not be combined.  Yearbook will be under membership.

Mary Jo described how being a board member has enhanced club experiences.

The active discussion of board participation continued.  Linda will organize her recommendations in an email.  Mary-Jo will update her responsibilities and send them to LuAnn to finalize changes before the membership renewal letter is sent.  Pat N. will help with the new job descriptions.  Updated committees and descriptions will allow members to better consider their choice for club participation.  We have creative members and Linda has a goal of fewer speakers and more club participation.

There is an opening for Membership chairperson.  Meredith will remain on the committee.

That’s all folks!    

Respectfully submitted, Lee Cooper

EAGC General Meeting

March 18, 2021

President: Linda S welcomed members at 10:04 am. She shared that budget and nominating committees were formed and would be making presentations to the board at the April first meeting. She asked members to consider returning to meeting live for the April 15 meeting as many members have completed or are near completion of the Covid 19 vaccination process. She will explore this option further for the April board meeting.

Corresponding Secretary: Florence W. Has offered to step down to offer involvement in club business to a newer member. Interested members should notify the nomination committee.

Recording Secretary: President Linda S. Asked for motion to approve February minutes and attendance. Motion made my Susan C. Second by Betsy V. And unanimously approved.

Treasurer: Susan C Reported there is $6749.44 after some expenses were paid for the speaker, website, and holiday gifts.

Awards: M-J C. Polled her committee and their response to a 2021 awards activity was hesitant to NO, so postponement to summer 2022 will be revisited by the committee in May. The club has 3 wooden signs approaching replacement status.

Civic Beautification: Plans for gardens and bandstand are no doubt underway.

Design: Ann H. Continues to work with program chair for April or May presentation options. She continues to cheer members with email photos.

Environment and Conservation: Linda V d C announced there are two repeat applicants for this year’s mini grants and an expectation of more near the end of April. Flyers will be sent to members upon request, and some will be placed at the seed exchange site, by Diane A.

Herbs: Lynda B. Is stepping down as chair so interested members should inform President Linda S.

Horticulture: Ann H. Continues to send emails for club connections and articles to the web manager. She will provide an update of plans at the April board meeting.

Hospitality: The June 16th luncheon and plant auction plans are underway.

Membership: Meredith S. Suggests mailing membership renewal forms again this year and if remote meetings continue the mailing could include budget and slate of nominations. There are 17 members in attendance today. She is stepping aside from the committee chair due to retirement.

Public Relations: Jennifer H. Was thanked for the great Exeter Newsletter and Stratham Talks magazine articles and presentations for the mini grants program.

Ways and Means: Promise Tree co- chair Edie W. Reminded members of our collection for SAVERS project now underway. She said Johann St. L will be accepting drop off at her home the week of April 12 and will need 3 volunteers with large vehicles or trucks for the delivery date. Claire McG will still offer a PT Dahlia activity at a weather suitable time in May. There was discussion of a members only garden tour activity for June.

Web Manager: LuAnn F. Discussed emails and where to find website information.
Facebook: Patti E. Was thanked for her great posts on behalf of the garden club. She reported 500+ likes to our FB page and that the seed exchange is up and running thanks to Diane A. who is maintaining the site at the Exeter Library.

Program: Vicki B. is looking at design-oriented programs by Kerry Ann Mendez for April while her pandemic special is still available. Her price now is 125$ vs 400$ per presentation. Live April and May programs will be re-explored.

The meeting adjourned at 10:40 to a lively discussion/question of Kerry Ann Mende’z virtual presentation “Radical Perennials”, led by Vicki B.

Respectfully submitted,

Lee Cooper

EAGC General Meeting

February 18, 2021

Vice President: Pat N. Advised the town of Stratham is considering tree gift. Mention was made of town gift funds budgeted if needed for tree.

Recording Secretary: President, Linda S. Asked for a motion to approve minutes as presented on website. Motion to accept was made by Susan C. and seconded by Linda VdC. Vote was unanimous.

Treasurer: Susan C said no changes to checkbook.

Awards: MJ C asked for budgeted amount for awards and was referred to the website.

Design: Ann H. Said due to a lack of ability to shop for flowers she was challenged in thinking of possible design activities.

Environment and Conservation: Betsy V. and Linda VdC. Information on NH fir trees has been emailed to membership. Mini grant information has been released to public including article in the Exeter Newsletter. The committee thanked Betsy M. For her Perennial of the year article on the website.

Hospitality: Jill C. and committee have arranged to return our annual luncheon to June 16th at the Portsmouth Country Club. To be held in their outdoor space. Signup will be offered in April to give members adequate time to consider attending and to determine if there will be enough signups to have the luncheon. Helpers will be arranged for digging and preparing plants for the annual auction.

Membership: Meredith S. Continues to reach out to members who may not be able to join Zoom meetings. Eighteen members and one guest attended today’s meeting.

Ways and Means: Promise Tree co-chair Johann St. L. Presented Savers fundraiser project for the club to consider. Members would be asked to donate clothing and textiles (sheets, towels), and household goods such as small kitchen appliances. Value would be determined by weight of bags and boxes. An email will be sent to the membership to consider participation.

Web Manager: Jill C. Represented LuAnn F. In requesting approval of the expenditure of $167.76 for a GoDaddy 2-year website security expense. Jill C. Moved the expenditure and Vicki B seconded. The vote was unanimous.

Facebook: Patti E. Is meeting at present with the Exeter Library head to discuss being a site for the Girl Scout seed exchange project. Diane A. Is assisting her. Vicki B. Explained the project.

President: Linda S. Adjourned the meeting at 10:20, to today’s Armchair Garden Walk presented by guest presenter Wendy Fogg.

Decisions made: GoDaddy website security renewed.

Respectfully submitted, Lee C. Recording Secretary

EAGC Board Meeting

February 4, 2021

President: Linda S. Opened the Zoom board meeting at 10:07 thanking members for sharing Covid-19 vaccination information and mentioning members needing cards for contact and cheering.

Vice President: Pat N. Brought up celebrating Arbor/Earth day by planting a community tree. She will explore possible needs with Stratham DPW and talk to Patti E regarding known sites. This could favor club public relations.
Scholarship candidates will be screened by schools.

Treasurer: Susan C. Reported a checkbook balance of $7,386.40. And no new expenses.

Awards: Mary Jo C. Says club signs will soon need to be replaced.

Design: Ann H. Reported no program secured for May at present.

Environment & Conservation: Betsy V. Said mini grant application information has been shared for release. Balsam fir, this month’s evergreen information, has been sent to co-chair Linda V d C for a photo inclusion and will be forwarded to our website for members to see.

Hospitality: Jill C. Has confirmed annual June luncheon and plant auction plans with her committee for June 17th at the SHP pavilion with catered food. A phone call during her presentation from the Portsmouth County Club, our usual luncheon site, brought on a discussion of their outdoor service area with which some members are familiar. For ease and relaxation at the luncheon Jill will explore their Covid-19 preparation and service of food and bring information to her committee for consideration. There was a discussion of the need to perhaps have some members organize and oversee the digging and preparation of plants for the auction to encourage participation and ensure a variety of offerings. Members would perhaps be called. It was mentioned that apartment dwellers could perhaps contribute garden or flower accessories to auction.

Membership: Meredith S. Needs help with outreach to seldom seen members and those not comfortable with Zoom meetings. Information on some members was shared and Vicki B offered to remotely assist members with the Zoom process.

Program: Vicki B. Has had nice response to her sharing of last month’s films. She suggested looking into ways to disperse the information through educational resources. The February program presenter is Wendy Fogg of the Misty Meadows Herbal Center in Lee, NH. She will present an armchair garden walk through slides.

Public Relations: Jennifer H. Has sent mini grant information releases to our four usual sources and heard back from two. She will follow up with the other two soon.

Promise Tree: Johann St.L reported no new ideas for P. T. events as most require indoor group participation. Claire McG offered to give small group dahlia preparation and planting sessions at an appropriate time in late May. It was suggested that she offer time slots to limit group size.

Web Manager: LuAnn F. Moved to pay our annual website hosting expenses, seconded by Betsy V. and the vote was unanimous. LuAnn will give Gmail access to Pat N to share Tea card designs with members.

Linda S. reminded the board there is no meeting in March in lieu of the budget committee meeting.
Decision made: Annual renewal of website expense approved.
The board meeting ended at 11:02.

Respectfully submitted, Lee C., Recording Secretary

EAGC General Meeting

January 21, 2021 via Zoom

President: Linda S. At 10:02 a.m. welcomed over 20 members to our first regular meeting of 2021 by ZOOM. She has received a “thank you” from a member for the cards and paper white gift. Several members have been ill or not able to get about and efforts will continue to provide contact.

Vice President: Pat N. Presented possible difficulties in reviewing SST scholarship candidates, if there are any, with school access restrictions caused by Covid-19. Future Farmers of America was mentioned as an alternative source of candidates.

Treasurer: Susan C. Announced a checkbook balance of$7386.40. Small expenditures of under $200 have been made for club paper white bulb gifts to members and decorations for the Exeter Historical Society at Christmas 2020.

Environment and Conservation: Betsy V. Reported it is early for mini grant application information to be distributed for publication.

Civic Beautification: Jan C. Said she has cleared the historical society of decorations.

Hospitality and Membership: Jill C. And Meredith S. Reported on the presentation of paper white bulb gifts to all but 4 club members which were made and delivered by their committee of 6. Four out of state members received holiday greeting cards.

Jill C. Asked for input on our annual Spring luncheon and plant auction. She will pursue outside locations for our regular Thursday, June 17 meeting date. Members volunteered names of several caterers she could contact. The pavilions at SHP were discussed as possible locations and Linda S. will approach Stratham town officials for possible use.

Program: Vicki B. has programs for February and March and Kerri Mendez for April.
Ways and means: There is no need for major fund raisers at this time.

Web Manager: LuAnn F. Reported she will need under $300 for hosting services and website charges.

Facebook: Patti E. reported humorous cartoon garden related postings on our Facebook page receive the most “hits”. She also described a Girl Scout project we might be interested in, sponsoring for the Scout’s New Hampshire contact. The project involves seed exchange boxes. Members mentioned favorable interest so Patti will do more research and possibilities presented to the board at the Feb 4 meeting. Sponsorship recommendations would need to be presented to the full membership at the February regular meeting.

Yearbook: Max F. Will be contacted for plant auctioneer duties.
The meeting adjourned at 10:34 to the program on “tea cards” presented by Pat N. Following her presentation Vicki B. led a discussion of two films on soil, previously watched by members. The two films were “Kiss the ground” and “Living Soil”.
Respectfully submitted, Lee Cooper, Recording Secretary

EAGC General Meeting

November 19, 2020 via ZOOM

Nineteen members attended our first Zoom meeting.
President: Linda S. advised members of a thank you letter from the Stratham board of selectmen for our care of the Veterans Memorial Garden at Stratham Hill Park.

Treasurer: Susan C.: There is a balance of $732.56 in our account. That includes $21.50 from the 50/50 raffle and $56 from Promise Tree items in September.

Awards: Mary Jo C. thanked her committee for establishing criteria regarding what towns will be eligible. No awards activities are planned until the group can travel together. Volunteers will pick up club signs from previous winners.

Civic Beautification: Jan C. announced a November 30th 9:30am meeting to decorate the Exeter Historical Society for the holidays.

Environment and Conservation/Horticulture: Linda V d C, Ann H said this month’s tree is the Christmas tree and an article has been posted on our website.

Hospitality: Jill C.: Committee held a Zoom meeting to discuss a way to give a small gift to every member this holiday. They will apply to the executive board for funds if needed. Members are requested to send or call greetings to Connie G. As she is not computer connected and needing contact.

Programs: Vicki B. presented options for Zoom or virtual presentations by the presenters she has secured for this year. Options are to watch a virtual program ahead of a meeting and have a discussion at the meeting or have a live presentation on Zoom. Recommendations for the remainder of this year’s programs will be given to the board at the December meeting.

There were no actions requiring a vote at this meeting which adjourned to discuss the virtual presentation watched ahead of the meeting.

Lee C, Recording Secretary

EAGC General Meeting

October 15, 2020

President, Linda Sadlock began the meeting @ 10:17 am by reading a thank you and report from Treasurer, Susan Canada.  She asked for members’ help in some policies, which was recommended by the auditor.

Awards:  Mary Jo C. talked about updates for award rules and asked for suggestions to be sent to her by Nov. 1.  The awards committee is still looking for suggestions of residential gardens to consider.

Civic Beautification:  Jan C. announced the bandstand cleanup was done and that Historical Society decorating is tentatively scheduled for November 30, 2020.

Design:  Ann H. announced we may have a virtual design workshop.  For a fall challenge, send her pictures and she will make an album to share.  The theme will be shared by email.

Horticulture:  Pat N. presented information on forcing bulbs.

Hospitality:  Jill C. thanked today’s hostesses and mentioned how we might handle refreshments safely in future.

Membership:  Meredith S. thanked those who helped in delivery of handbooks and said there were 26 people at the meeting.

Programs:  Vicki B.  announced she will try to have speaker and zoom for those who do not feel safe.  It is possible to swap programs to accommodate maximum safe attendance. Dianna T.  will check her plan of the town office meeting room and get a count of maximum safe number for attendance in case we need to reserve ahead.

Environment and Conservation:  Jill C. announced that evergreen trees will be this year’s focus.  She gave a quiz to membership regarding characteristics of evergreens.  A prize was awarded to LuAnn F.

The meeting adjourned at 11:20.

Submitted from notes taken by Vicki Burns

Lee Cooper, Recording Secretary

EAGC General Meeting

September 17, 2020

EAGC General Meeting

August 6, 2020

EAGC General Meeting

January 16, 2020

President Susan Canada welcomed 33 members and 6 guests to the first meeting of the year and thanked our hostess, LuAnn Faber and assistants; Anne Campbell, Carole Chanasyk, Jill Flanders and Ginny Tremberth. Susan announced Connie Gilmore is recovering from surgery and would welcome cards and perhaps visitors soon.
The Civic Beautification committee needs someone to chair the Exeter bandstand project. The position was filled by volunteers Paula Francese and Jan Cowan.
The Environment and Conservation project was chaired and presented by Mary Ellen Morse. She recommended a tree website to members called Echo Enchantment. The birch was this month’s tree and the display included Birch syrup, cookies and showed Native American uses, including medicinal ones documented in 1672.
The Promise Tree blossomed with a “Monty Don” program on January 31st hosted by Linda VandeCar at Susan’s; vegetable seeds and painted rocks for sale.
Linda V. passed a sign-up sheet for the February 11 Exeter Polls bake sale. Workers are needed as well as food items. Contributions should be delivered between 1 and 4 pm on Monday Feb. 10 either to Susan Canada or Jill Compton.
The meeting concluded with a program on Backyard Birds by Steven Hale, Phd. Members enjoyed guessing the identity of photos of birds found in N.H. and learning about their habits and how to identify them.

Respectfully submitted, Lee Cooper

EAGC Board Meeting

January 2, 2020

President Susan Canada opened the January board meeting with thanks to Hostess Diana Thompson and helper Ann Hohenberger.
Treasurer Jill Compton reported a checkbook balance of $7,910. The Promise Tree has brought in $923 since July 1. The December lunch broke even. There were 36 in attendance. The venue is booked for next year’s event.
Civic Beautification: Donna Wilson needs a co chair to take over the Exeter bandstand responsibilities. It is hoped an Exeter member will help out.
Design chair, Ann Hohenberger and Lee Cooper presented financial commitment needs for the April program. Program chair will be consulted and any additional funding needs brought back to board.
Environment and Conservation: Birch trees are the next meeting topic. Mini grant requests are needed, particularly from Stratham and towns other than Exeter. Information will be on website soon. Members are encouraged to approach possible candidates.
Herbs: Susan thanked Lynda Broadbent for the wonderful
Christmas luncheon.
Horticulture: members are reminded to bring examples for the display table January 16.
Hospitality: there maybe a need for coffee. Mimi Brett reported a successful collaboration with the Hampton club at the November meeting.
Membership: Meredith Stevens would like to contact new members to assist with membership as it would be helpful for her and for new members to become acquainted. Board members responded positively to her suggestion.
Promise Tree: Claire McGrail has offered a Dahlia worship sometime soon. Linda VandeCar is planning a “Afternoon with Monty Don” workshop with Susan hosting.
Ways and Means: Still in need of Chair and co-Chair. LuAnn Faber and Linda VandeCar will chair the February 11 bake sale at Exeter polls. Susan and Jill offered to provide drop off services on Monday the 10th. Members encouraged to bake cookies, small breads, and other baked goods. There will be a 50/50 raffle. Stratham polls are reported to no longer allow fundraising activities. The annual yard sale is planned for the last week in April.
Web Manager: LuAnn announced an operating calendar has been added to the website and that “Go Daddy” helped resolve our back end problems.

Respectfully submitted: Lee Cooper

EAGC Board Meeting

November 7, 2019

Susan Canada called the meeting to order at 10:12am after social time.  There were 17 people in attendance.

Vice President: Linda received a thank you note from our scholarship recipient and some potential candidates for next year.

Corresponding Secretary: Sending welcome to club to two new members.

Treasurer:  Susan has filed the tax return.

Awards: No news; Susan thanked for great presentation and people agreed that having no speaker for that meeting was nice.

Civic Beautification:  Thanks to volunteers.  Dec 2 is holiday decorations for Historical Society at 9am.  We need a lead for the Bandstand tasks and an Exeter resident would be best.

Design: 15 people are signed up for workshop on 11/20 and they will make Centerpiece for 11/21 meeting.  Lee Cooper is organizing the April meeting.

Environment & Conservation: Oaks will be covered at next meeting and our Mini-grant posters will be brought for display.

Herbs: Susan reported that reservation has been made for Christmas luncheon.

Horticulture:  We enjoyed the many displays and will do again for 11/21.

Hospitality:  All set

Membership:  We have 56 members now.  Read a thankyou from a new member

Programs:  Vicki to send completed speaker contracts to Jill for audits.

Promise Tree:  Cookie Swap on Dec 5 from 1-3 at Lee Cooper has space left; Jill’s placemat painting is full; Wine and Cheese social was success; October earnings were close to $300; Dec 16, 11-1, will be Swap Shop at Betsy’s; if an event must be cancelled, it is up to the hostess to notify attendees.

Public Relations:  Article about Awards was in paper.  Speaker info will be in next paper.

Ways & Means: Have committee but NO LEAD.  There will be a bake sale at Exeter elections.  Need to find Banner in large tube.

Website:  Having space issue and working with GoDaddy to understand why at limit.  Discussion about changing to different host and difficulties of transition.          

Completed at 10:58am.

Respectfully submitted Vicki Burns, for the Recording Secretary

EAGC General Meeting

October 17, 2019

President Susan Canada opened the October 17 meeting of the EAGC at 10:45 a.m. after Awards were presented by Mary Jo Chadwick to this year’s residential and commercial Civic Beautification Awards winners.  The residential award went to Mr. and Mrs. Andriola of Greenland and the commercial award to Squamscott View Apts., Exeter, along with a town/sewer cooperative.

Susan thanked our hospitality team led by Pat Navin. Treasurer:  Jill Compton reported a checkbook balance of $7,005.71

Civic Beautification:  Susan reported for Donna Wilson that the Exeter bandstand cleanup was all set and that Dec 2 at 9 a.m. would be the decoration of the Exeter Historical Society.  If anyone wants to help they should email Donna.

Design committee:  Ann Hohenberger announced there will be a design class November 20 so arrangements may be shared at the Nov 21 meeting. Environment and Conservation:  Linda VandeCar and Betsy Vershay presented the topic for the day:  maple trees with a display and handouts.  Linda spoke about house invaders.

Herbs:  Linda Broadbent announced the Dec 12th luncheon sign up would be available as soon as cost was determined. Horticulture:  Ann Hohenberger announced the single item display table was a big success and will be a regular meeting feature.  Carol Chambers gave a talk and demonstration on Sage, which grows perennially in zone 4 thru 10 and has many medicinal and culinary uses. Samples for tasting were available at meetings end.

Hospitality:  Jill Compton announced Mimi to coordinate hosting of next meeting with our guest club, Hampton. Membership:  Meredith Stevens announced 37 members attending with several guests and one new member.

Programs:  Vicki Burns announced Nov. 21 program “The Garden Tourist” with Hampton Garden Club as guests. Promise Tree:  Johann St. Laurent announced a Nov. 1 wine and cheese event, a Nov. 14 coloring event and cookie swap Dec. 5, plus other sale items at table.

Public Relations:  Mimi Brett asked members to tell her of EAGC articles in the news that they might see.  The mini grant awards were in the Exeter Newsletter.

Ways and Means:  still needs chair.  Bake sale at Exeter polls is next fundraiser and there may be a late day snack sale at the Stratham polls as well. Web Manager:  LuAnn Faber requested yearbook changes be sent to her for posting. Yearbook:  Susan thanked Max Forward for her great job.

Respectfully submitted,  Lee Cooper

EAGC Board Meeting

October 3, 2019

The EAGC board meeting of October 3, 2019 was opened by President, Susan Canada as she thanked Linda VandeCar and Meredith Stevens for hosting and introduced new member Claire McGrail.
VP: Linda Sadlock reported on our 2019 scholarship winner and that there is a possible high school candidate for next year.
Treasure: Jill Compton reported $11,500.71 in the checkbook.
Awards: Mary Jo Chadwick reported 5 people will be given awards at the Oct 17 meeting and that making awards has taxed the budgeted amount. A suggestion was made to increase next year’s amount to reflect current expenses and the board voted to approve the additional amount spent this year.
Civic Beautification: Donna Wilson needs two more people for the Exeter bandstand clean up.
Design: Susan announced fall workshop Wed. November 20. Participants may share their designs at the Nov. 21 general meeting.
Environment and conservation: Linda VandeCar and Betsy Vershay were thanked for the mini grant presentation and they announced this year’s topic of study to be deciduous trees of NH, beginning with Maple.
Herbs: Linda Broadbent announced Carol Chambers will present the program at the Oct. meeting and that sign up for the Thursday December 12 luncheon will be out at the Oct. meeting.
Hospitality: Jill Compton needs co hostess for the April 2 board meeting at the home of Donna Wilson.
Membership: Meredith announced 54 current members. She plans to have more greeters at the Oct. meeting due to the number of guests and award recipients attending. She is sending yearbook corrections to LuAnn for dissemination, including the Thursday Jan 16th meeting day.
Program: Vicki Burns sent information on making contracts for Speakers and contacting UNH. In November we host the Hampton Garden Club in a joint meeting and the board needs to discuss future speaker payments, etc.
Promise Tree: Johann St. Laurent and Edie Wyrick announced the first social on the Calendar with Jann Bova and Anne Campbell hosting a wine and cheese tasting November 3 for 15$.
Public Relations: Mimi Brett shared she has had very pleasant contacts with the Carriage Town News.
Ways and Means: Still needs a chair/co chair. Board discussed yard sale changes including a vendor price increase to 30$. Also discussed was selling end of day snacks at the Stratham polls. LuAnn Faber and Linda V will chair voter bake sale in Exeter and Dianna Thompson and Linda Sadlock will continue with the yard sale.
Web Mgr: LuAnn Faber announced a possible web site price increase due to our storage of photos. She will look into alternative storage costs vs price increase.
Yearbook: Thanks to Max Forward for a great job.

Respectfully submitted,
Lee Cooper, recording secretary

EAGC General Meeting

September 19, 2019

President, Susan Canada opened the meeting at 10am welcoming 40 members and 3 guests with remarks of the summer meeting at Prescott Park and announcing today’s agenda to introduce new board members and then adjourn to committees for annual planning and organization.

Board members and comments:

Vice President:  Linda Sadlock, chair Scholarship Committee, Budget Committee

Corresponding Secretary :  Florence Whicher

Recording Secretary:  Lee Cooper

Treasurer:  Jill Compton, made deposit for December luncheon, reviewed finances with Linda Sadlock over summer, nearly $7,000 in Checkbook

Awards:  Mary Jo Chadwick,  needs co-chair to help visit gardens through next summer and make awards next October

Civic Beautification:  Donna Wilson. Needs co-chair

Design:  Ann Hohenberger, Connie Gilmore co-chairs

Environment and Conservation:  Linda VandeCar and Betsy Vershay, reported $1800 awarded in mini grants to: The Greengard Center for Autism; Janice Randall, intersection of Drinkwater and High St., Exeter;  Rye Beach Little Boars Head Garden Club; Tenant’s Council of Exeter Housing Authority; Folsom Acres Condo Association; Star Island Corporation; Yoga Life Garden, Exeter.

Herbs:  Linda Broadbent announced Holiday luncheon will be Wednesday, December 12.

Horticulture: Ann Hohenberger

Hospitality:  Jill Compton

Membership:  Meredith Stevens, reported 52 members, 1 rejoining, and introduced guests

Program: Vicki Burns

Promise Tree:  Johann St. Laurent, Edie Wyrick

Public Relations:  Mimi Brett

Ways and Means:  Susan Canada

Web Manager:  LuAnn Faber

Yearbook:  Max Forward

Susan adjourned meeting to committees at 10:35 am.

Respectfully submitted,  Lee Cooper

EAGC General Meeting

May 16, 2019

At 10:00, Susan Canada started the formal meeting.  There were 44 people in attendance.  Susan discussed the memorial services for members Betsy Appleby and Nance Jordan.  She welcomed all and thanked the hospitality group.  Betsy led the hospitality this month and thanked all members for stepping up with the absence of Nance.  Susan then asked if there were any questions on the bylaw changes posted on the website for member review.  The vote on the amended bylaws passed.  She then listed the slate of officers for next year and that members’ vote also passed.  Susan thanked all members for making it a smooth year.

The following topics were covered:

Vice President:  Linda was not available, and Jill told of their visit to SST to review the one candidate in plant science.  They felt he was qualified and will give the Ruth Dubenitz Memorial Scholarship to him on May 30^th.  We will not be awarding the EAGC Memorial Scholarship this year.  We need to discuss how to expand our scholarship search for additional candidates.  Susan mentioned that Linda has emailed job descriptions and would like any updates sent to her.

Correspondence Secretary:  no news

Recording Secretary:  Susan thanked Vicki for her year in this position.

Treasurer: There are a few changes so please review for the membership vote on the budget at the Annual Luncheon.  She reported that late spring is very busy with checks coming in for Membership, Yard Sale, Annual lunch and Plant Sale.  It is helpful to have a clear indication on the Note line of the check.

Awards: Committee is starting to work and needs suggestions for commercial and residential gardens to view.  Please think about joining us on the hunt and viewing of these gardens.

Civic Beautification:  Donna passed around 3 clipboards to sign up for help with plantings and cleanups at Churchills, Bandstand and Veterans Park.

Design: no news this month.

Environment & Conservation:  We have butterflies for sale for $10 (Promise Tree) and get 3 to watch and release.   See Promise Tree signup for our book on this year’s presentations.  Linda summarized the seven mini grants that will be awarded from the good pool of applicants.

Hort moments:  Maxine brought in colorful lettuce and said to not forget that you can mix veggies into your flower garden for color and cuttings.  Swiss Chard gives some interest.  Noonan’s Outpost in West Newburyport is where she got her lettuces.  Becky Mitchell talked about the plant auction and how to assure that your plants and pots look good.  Please make sure you provide the name and a description to help viewers and auctioneer.  Maxine added that whimsical garden decorations, pots or tools should be considered to augment the many plants.  A member mentioned that boxwood blight is spreading into NH.  The Topbuxus product is recommended for this issue.  Vicki mentioned that the invasive Garlic Mustard is in bloom now and should be pulled or at least have the blooms removed.  A typical plant yields 600 seeds but a vigorous plant could yield 7000 seeds. 

Hospitality:  If you did not sign up for a hospitality month, I will call.  Please come to the luncheon on Tuesday, June 18^th as we would like to see all our members at this fun event.  You do not need to bring a plant as anything garden related is great.  You do not need to purchase.  We would like to chat with you.

Membership: We have two guests and one new member today.  Please fill out the membership form and include your $25 payment.  There are forms on the table.  This is due by June 1 this year.

Ways and Means:  Yard Sale was a great success.

Promise Tree:  Butterfly kits for sale; Landscape Luncheon on Monday 5/20; Maxine garden visit 5/21; Woodman Museum Tour on June 5; wonderful Note Cards for sale; seeds for sale.

Website – no updates

Yearbook:  New date for needing all information is June 1.

At 10:45, Ann introduced Penny O’Sullivan for talk on Spatial Garden Design.  Penny talked to our club 8 years ago and there were requests for a repeat invite.  Penny covered several landscape design ideas and focus points.

At 11:50 the lecture and questions were completed, and the meeting was concluded.   

Respectfully submitted, Vicki Burns, Recording Secretary

EAGC Board Meeting

May 1, 2019

The meeting was called to order by Susan at 10:00. Present were Susan Canada, Donna Wilson, Linda VandeCar, Ann Hohenberger, Florence Whicher, Lee Cooper, Jill Compton, Mimi Brett, Betsy Vershay, Max Forward, LuAnn Faber, Ann Schieber, Anne Campbell, Dianna Thompson, and Meredith Stevens.

President   Susan thanked members who attended Nance’s service last week, as it meant a lot to Brian and Michael. It was moved that $100 be donated in Nance’s memory to the American Heart Association. Motion was seconded and passed. Jill will send. Susan also thanked today’s hostess, Linda V., and her assistant, Florence.

Betsy Appleby’s service will be Sat., May 4 at 2 pm at the Stratham Community Church. Susan will speak at the service and members who aren’t working at the Yard Sale are encouraged to attend.

Approval of the proposed Bylaws revision was moved, seconded and passed with one change: the word “audit” in Article IV, Section 7 will be changed to “financial review.”

We will be voting on the Slate of Officers at the May general meeting. Some changes have been made: Vicki Burns will be taking over the position of Programs and Lee Cooper will be assuming Recording Secretary duties. Donna Wilson has volunteered to take over Nance’s Hospitality job and Mel McGrail will be handling the Veteran’s Garden.

Susan circulated an informational flyer for the Exeter Library’s Plant Swap on Sat., June 1.

Sign-up for hostesses & assistants for next year’s Board meetings was circulated.

The Board will hold its June Potluck/meeting on June 6 at 9:30 at Susan’s home. An email will be sent regarding food.

Vice President   Jill reported that she, Linda S. and Jan Cowan attended the scholarship candidate round-up at SST yesterday and identified a very qualified candidate for our Ruth Dubenitz Memorial Scholarship. It is Oliver Foss of Stratham, who will be attending SUNY-Cobleskill. A total of $2275 was raised in Ruth’s honor this year, $1550 from Ruth’s family. We’ll award a $2000 scholarship and move the remaining $275 to the Memorial Fund.

Linda S. is requesting that all Chairpersons provide her with updated job descriptions.

Corresponding Secretary   Florence has sent a card to Connie & will send one to Brian Jordan.

Treasurer   The proposed budget reduced Programs from $1200 to $1000 based on this year’s Programs expenses of $862. Vicki can request more funds from the board next year if she needs it. The proposed budget for next year is balanced at $8400. Our current balance is $8768.21.

Civic Beautification   Donna went to Churchills to find out about the status of the bandstand project in Nance’s absence. She plans to plant the flower boxes the week after Mother’s Day. The whereabouts of the boxes is unknown. Dianna will contact Brian to try to track them down and get Nance’s Civic Beautification records. Sign-up sheets for maintenance of the bandstand & Vet’s Garden is half-filled.

Design   Ann H. thanked Donna, Susan, Dianna and Lee for a job beautifully done at the last meeting. The town of Exeter will be charging us a discounted non-profit fee for use of the Senior Center in the future.

E&C   Will be addressing freshwater at the next general meeting. Ten Mini-Grant applications have been received and will be reviewed by the E&C Committee after this meeting. Some of the applications were not filled out completely or at all, meaning Linda V. had to call many of the applicants for more info.

Herbs   A check for $250 is needed for the Wentworth Country Club for the Holiday Luncheon. Jill will send it.

Horticulture   Max will be doing the Hort Moment this month.

Hospitality   The committee met to finalize plans for the June Luncheon & Auction. A third entrée has been added this year at an additional cost of $2 per person. Our choices will be beef, fish, or vegetarian. The cost to attendees is still $25 as the club will subsidize the overage. There will be no raffle, other than the E&C basket. The centerpieces will be given away at each table. Everything else will be auctioned. Containers with plants and houseplants are encouraged as some of us are no longer gardening in our yards. We’re working towards a better turn-out this year. Guests are welcome.

Membership   Meredith needs renewals submitted by June 1, including completed membership forms.

Programs   Ann thanked us for her 9 years on the Board and said Vicki has plans well under way for next year. Our joint meeting with Rye next March 19 will host Kelly Orzel, who wanted 90 minutes for her presentation. We decided one hour is enough. Next April is reserved for the Member Meeting, and Sept. & Oct. meetings are reserved or organization & awards. Penny O’Sullivan will speak this month.

Publicity   Mimi has sent an article re O’Sullivan to the papers and an article has been published in the Exeter Newsletter about the Yard Sale.

Ways & Means   Fourteen tables are reserved for the yard sale. Helpers are reminded to wear a flower & EAGC ID & bring an apron with pockets. Coffee & water will be sold. The library is loaning us tables & the custodian will set them up for us. Susan will also bring some tables. E&C will bring mini-grant posters. Two paid ads were placed in the paper and signs are up in 3 locations. No response has been received from Scouts about helping. Dianna will contact Wonderland about picking up remainders on Sat. Jill will handle 50/50 raffle and bring $300 starter money. Drop off for members is Friday from 3-6.

Promise Tree   Lee reports that Vicki has a May 20 Party scheduled, Max is having a Garden Party on May 21, and butterfly kits are available at the next meeting.

Yearbook   Max needs info from everyone by June 1.

Meeting adjourned at 11:40.

Respectfully submitted, LuAnn Faber

EAGC General Meeting

April 18, 2019

At 10:00, Susan Canada started the formal meeting. There were 28 people in attendance. She welcomed all and thanked the hospitality group. She summarized the business and budget meeting held during the last month.
The following topics were covered:
Vice President: Will be reviewing Seacoast School of Technology students, for the Ruth Dubenitz Scholarship and EAGC Scholarship award, on May 1 with ceremony in late May. For the scholarship in memory of Ruth, private donations were matched up to $500. Linda will be sending out job descriptions to be reviewed and updated.
Correspondence Secretary: Betsy Appleby service is May 4, the same day as our yard sale.
Treasurer: Jill reported that funds are at $6228.21. She summarized the Budget meeting held and will send budget out before next board meeting for review. Membership vote on the budget is at the Annual Luncheon. She reported that late spring is very busy with checks coming in for Membership, Yard Sale, Annual lunch and Plant Sale. It is helpful to have a clear indication on the Note line of the check.
Awards: Nothing to report yet.
Civic Beautification: Please see clipboard on the back table for signups to the Bandstand and the Veterans Garden. We will send notices.
Herbs: Nothing this month. Hospitality: Sign ups were passed around for next year’s months and will be at meeting. Please consider being lead. June luncheon is JUNE 18 at 11am and $25. Watch web for details. Please consider bringing a guest and know that purchasing plants is not a requirement of the luncheon. We would like to see better membership attendance. Hampton and Rye joint meeting will both be with us next year.
Membership: The full membership form is requested from everyone. The form is on the web. Please send your form and check to Meredith so that she can tally. Meredith read the birthday members
Public Relations: Using the Stratham Magazine.
Ways & Means: Yard Sale: passed around the signup sheet.
Promise Tree: Butterfly kits for Sale and Linda V. described last year’s efforts; Landscape Luncheon on 5/20; Woodman Museum Tour; garden and Bird Books for sale; seeds for sale.
Yearbook: New date for needing all information is June 1.
Environmental & Conservation: If want booklet on our topics this year, it is $10 and any funds remaining will go to the Promise tree. The National Geographic magazine is making its way through the club members and please sign up at the table for your chance to read this great article on our oceans and the plastic problems.

Horticultural Moment: Linda V. provided a discussion on various covers for winter protections. These included collapsible ones from Amazon, burlap, and why to do it yourself.
Second Horticultural Moment: Becky Mitchell discussed that a successful Plant Auction is to have plants that look good. If dividing Hostas, do so before the leaves uncoil. If digging up several for the Plant Sale, look at them before bringing and keep ones that are not looking so great to replant yourself. Think about nice house plants that you could root and plant. Please do good ID for the plant and add some words for Maxine to say as auctioneer. Call if you have any questions.
At 10:35, Ann introduced our four club members who demonstrated different floral design techniques.
Donna did candlestick arrangement and wreath with silks flowers.
Dianna did an Edible arrangement.
Susan did a fresh flower full arrangement for Easter.
Lee did a Japanese inspired by Ikebana arrangement.
At 11:30 the meeting was concluded.
Respectfully submitted.
Vicki Burns, Recording Secretary

EAGC Board Meeting

April 4, 2019

Susan Canada called the meeting to order at 10 am after social and refreshment. Susan thanked all for attending and discussed the Nominating Committee task. She stated that the usual is to serve for 2 years but talk with her if you want to leave the position. Ann Campbell would like to step down as lead of Awards but stay on the Committee. Vicki is transitioning to Programs, complete 2nd year of Recording Secretary unless someone wants the position.
Treasurer: Discussion of Scholarship in Ruth Dubenitz’s name. The family will match private donations up to $500 and we think we will have over this amount collected. Any additional money in Ruth’s name is needed before May 1. We will give the Ruth scholarship this year. We also allocated $1000 in budget for EAGC Scholarship. If two candidates are worthy, then both can be given. Otherwise, hold the club scholarship for future. Susan suggested that when donations are made in a member’s name (and not specified to a specific club function), these should go into the scholarship fund. She suggested a name change to EAGC Memorial Scholarship.
Vice President: Linda Sadlock will look at making the Bylaws change for the scholarship change. She mentioned that May 1 from 3-5 pm is when the selection process happens, and she welcomes help.
Treasurer: The checkbook balance is $6108. We had the Budget committee meeting and have the budget prepared for review. The budget will be presented at the May meeting. Short overview of budget given and some copies distributed.
Awards: no info
Civic Beautification: will start in May; stay tuned.
Design: Completed great design class with 9 members and awesome teacher. Discussed their April design meeting briefly with concern for who has key for 8:30 am setup.
Environment & Conservation: Mini Grants are arriving and could people take additional flyers to post. Deadline is May 1 and we have 3 so far. Next year’s topic will not be so big or gloomy.
Herbs: nothing this month
Horticulture: See posting on website. Linda V has April and Maxine has May.
Hospitality: Sign up for luncheon will be at April meeting. Bring plants at 10:30. Please consider making a potted plant ready to use or gift. Discussed how to get better turnout of members. Note day of week change to TUESDAY JUNE 18th. Think about bringing other “garden stuff” that is near new/lovingly used. Maybe some garden art that does not sing to you anymore.
Membership: Want everyone to fill out form clearly. Believe we should get form annually to identify any changes. The form is on the website.
Programs: Please pick March over May for the Rye Joint meeting as our May program is busy with membership forms and Annual Luncheon signups.
Public Relations: Ann to send writeup for May speaker: Penny. Also need Yard sale info for posting. Discussed Facebook Marketplace and Nextdoor Neighbor as free internet advertising. Discussed if Annual Luncheon & Plant Sale should go out wider than our club and typical invite to Rye and Hampton clubs.
Ways & Means: Yard Sale date is Saturday May 4 with setup Friday May 3. Please price your items and do not just make everything $1. Prices can be in $0.25 increments as no other change. Know that shoppers want to bargain down. May contact scouts, boy and girl, about help with setup. Will advertise for more vendors at $25/table. Can drop off items at Susan’s house if not here for weekend event. EAGC members working at the sale should wear an apron with pockets to hold money. EAGC workers should bring and wear some flower to identify as working our area. Dianna and LuAnn will work on suggested pricing guidelines to post to web. Dianna repainted the signs with new dates. Patti posted event to our Facebook page. There is on online yard sale group in Facebook for possible additional advertising.
Promise Tree: New rule is to pay when sign up and team is trying to make that happen. We need more events.
Website: Please send any issues or postings to LuAnn.
Yearbook: Need all information by July 1. Maxine is gone in September and needs someone to do pickup of booklets for September meeting. Several volunteered. She also mentioned that she needs to find a new printer. Suggestion was to check out Top Hat in Exeter.
Completed at 11:25 am.
Respectfully submitted
Vicki Burns, Recording Secretary

EAGC General Meeting

March 21, 2019

At 10:00, Susan Canada started the formal meeting. There were 30 people in attendance. She welcomed all and thanked the hospitality group. She thanked Linda for running the meetings while she was gone. She reviewed the typical tenure of officers and said that the nominating committee would start soon. Susan also mentioned that some members are in condos, so think about potted plants for patios or windowsills when bringing your donations to the Plant Auction.
The following topics were covered:
Vice President: is looking at SST students for scholarship. In memory of Ruth Dubenitz, someone will match up to $500 in private donations.
Treasurer: Jill reported that funds are still in excess of $6,000.
Recording Secretary: Vicki announced that she found the BeeWax Wraps and will work with LuAnn to put sign-up on website.
Design: The April program is 4 arrangers that will demo and they are keeping secret for now. The Ikebana workshop for next Wednesday had one cancellation so someone can join.
Environmental & Conservation: National Geographic from June 2018 is here and please sign up to take a copy and cross out your name when you return it. Last year, we made a booklet on Pollination and all excess proceeds went to Promise Tree. We will do this again this year for $10 with any excess going to Promise Tree. Please see sign ups. Did summary of Wind display.
Herbs: See our display on borage. The Holiday Brunch on 12/12 has been booked.
Horticultural Moment: please see the website posting
Membership: Meredith introduced new member Diane. She introduced guests Grace from Exeter and Christine who came due to interest in bees.
Public Relations: Susan mentioned the good article on mini grants.
Ways & Means: There is a sign up sheet for the May 4 Yard Sale day and it would help the nerves of the organizers to see people signing up. See the back table.
Promise Tree: Bunco was a success. April 1 Betsy event is full. Mushroom Luncheon is full. June 5 is a Woodman Museum outing. Signup sheets are available at the table and descriptions are on the website.
Website: All seems fine but please call LuAnn if any issues.
At 10:15, Ann introduced Jess Waters from Half Acre Bee Keeping Company. Jess developed interest in bee keeping 5 years ago while attending school in Boston. She did Urban Bee Keeping. She and her husband Andrew started their company after winning at a UNH function to support entrepreneurs. They are teaming with farmers to place hives and sell shares to people for the honey produced. They monitor, maintain and harvest. They will also evaluate your home for a hive. There are 200 species of bees in New England and most are native and stingless. Many are nat size. Her talk would focus on the European Honey Bee. This is the most prolific of all honey bees with a colony of 20-50,000 bees. A colony has ONE Queen; worker bees that are infertile females; and drones that are males. Worker bees typically collect in a 3 mile radius of the hive. Bees were seen in carvings from Egypt form 2500 BC. Honey Bees were the symbol for the King of Lower Egypt. Honey is medicinal. In medieval times, Monastery, Convents and Churches were bee keepers. Most people think for Mead and pollination, but they were harvesting the wax for candle making. Monochromatic gardening and transportation for pollination stress bees. Avoid Neonocotinide in some pesticide as this will hurt bees. Not as many wild honey bees (who use hollow of tree) due to habitat loss. Honey from China is banned because of antibiotics used there but be careful as it is shipped to other countries and could be relabeled (honey from some South American countries has been tested as originating in China). Colony Collapse is scary as 1 in every 5 bites of food is because of the honey bee! Some high food source plants for Honey Bees are dandelions, goldenrod, and borage. Late blooming flowers are important. Bees like White, yellow, violet and blue for flower colors. They will seldom go to red flowers. If you find a tired bee, you can offer sugar water that is equal parts water and white sugar (nothing but white sugar). Worker bees only live 3 weeks and drones are kicked out of the hive in the fall. The NH Honey Bee company, a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, is a great place to get products.
At 11:30 the meeting was concluded.
Respectfully submitted
Vicki Burns, Recording Secretary

EAGC General Meeting

February 21, 2019

At 10:05, Linda Sadlock started the formal meeting. There were 24 members in attendance. She welcomed all who made it out on the cold day and thanked the hospitality group. She gave an update on members with medical issues. The following topics were covered:
Vice President: reported that the Seacoast School of Technology had two scholarships candidates. Shared this with the Rye Driftwood Garden Club Scholarship representative.
Treasurer: reported current funds at $6043.78; read nice thanks from Library for our donation in memory of Betsy Appleby; an email will be sent for the budget meeting in March; the annual luncheon was moved to Tuesday June 18th and will be $25 for members and guests; provided check for $117 to pay for two year malware subscription for the website.
Design: March 27th is free workshop with tea and learning Ikebana is available for signups.
Environmental & Conservation: Trying new summary presentations to capture essence of posters and handouts in case members did not get to see them during the social. Each member gave short talk on the pollution of the ocean. It was quite doom and gloom. Some facts to share: by 2100 the sea level will be up 11.5 feet from today due to global warming; 40% of US lives in flood plains; 70% of our oxygen is from ocean plants; kelp beds dying around Isles of Shoals are reducing food and ‘homesites’ for marine life; kelp is the largest plant in the ocean and grows 2’ per day.
Horticultural Moment: please see the website posting
Promise Tree: There are Bird and Garden books for sale on back table; there are four upcoming events; please pay when sign up of send check (payable to EAGC) to a Promise Tree committee person. Signup sheets are available at the table and descriptions are on the website.
At 10:35, Ann introduced Patti Elwell from Rolling Green Nursery. Patti was president of EAGC from 2012-2014. Highlights of her talk included: see rareseeds.com; wash used containers in 9 parts water to 1 part bleach; use only seed start mix; packets can last a couple years but viability may be less; read your packets; do not overwater; plant in small cups and have next sizes available for repotting in small step sizes; thin seedlings by cutting NOT pulling as hurts roots; seeds bolt if light too far away; wind can be simulated by running hand over plant tops as the movement encourages them not to gain height but become sturdy; at 3 weeks, use 25% solution of Organic Kelp fertilizer as formulated for seeds; 1 gallon milk containers make greenhouses or frost covers in beds; take plants outside for 1 hour on 1st day, 2 hours on 2nd day, 3 hours on 3rd day …. For 10-14 days – this is hardening off; rotate your plants in outdoor beds; use cheap toilet paper to mark top of row and alternate carrot and radish and cover with dusting of dirt leaving wet toilet paper edges exposed; learn about companion plants.
At 11:35 the meeting was concluded.
Respectfully submitted
Vicki Burns, Recording Secretary

EAGC Board Meeting

February 7, 2019

President   Susan was absent.

Vice President   Linda Sadlock called the meeting to order at 10:04 a.m. She welcomed the 10 attendees (names are italicized).   She thanked LuAnn for hosting and Ann for providing the refreshments.

LuAnn recommended the by-laws (posted on the website) be reviewed, revised and updated.  She will chair a committee consisting of Linda S, Jill (has the job descriptions) and Max.

Linda will contact SST in Exeter regarding potential scholarship candidates.

Corresponding Secretary   Florence Whicher  Linda will ask her to send cards to four members who are dealing with medical issues.

Recording Secretary  Vicki Burns was absent.  Linda S. took the minutes.

Treasurer     Jill Compton   There is $ 6.219.86 in the treasury.  A detailed account from July is attached. (See below.)

Jill read a lovely thank you note from the Wiggin Library in Stratham in recognition of our donation of $100 made in memory of Betsy Appleby.  Since the donation was doubled (as requested in an email) to equal past gifts, LuAnn moved, and Linda Van de Car seconded the amount be increased.  All were in favor.

The $200 allocated for the Stratham Municipal Center last year has not been spent.  It was suggested that we consult with a representative of the center before we make a purchase to make sure it is needed, useful and substantial.

There was a discussion about posting the budget on line, an internal audit, double verification at fund raisers and establishing an annual endowment.  These will be included in the agenda for the March budget meeting.

Awards– Anne Campbell   No report

Civic Beautification- Nance Jordan and Donna Wilson   Nance is following up on the removal of holiday decorations in Exeter.

Design    Connie Gilmore and Ann Hohenberger

There will be four members doing a live arrangement presentation at the April meeting.

Ann has paid $10 to reserve the facility for the Ikebana Workshop by Martha Hamilton. It is tentatively scheduled for March 27^th 1-3.   Susan’s home will be the back up if the date does not work for the presenter.

Ann will write a letter to the Exeter BOS informing them of what the club does for the town “to set the record straight”.  Once written, it will be reviewed and authorized by the board to make sure all the money spent on the bandstand, historical society, independence museum and mini-grants be included.

Environment & Conservation    Linda Van De Car and Betsy Vershay

The mini grant information was given to Mimi for publicity.

There will be a four-part (plastic, fishing, trash and global warming) presentation about salt water at the meeting.  Linda purchased five copies of a National Geographic regarding this topic and will make them available to members.

Herbs Lynda Broadbent   No report

Horticulture    Ann Hohenberger

 The “hort” moments are covered until June. Linda Van De C will do April.

Hospitality     Susan held a meeting with Jill, Donna, Ginny B and Ginny T.  Jill has become chairperson and has already booked the Portsmouth Country Club for the annual luncheon.  It will be Tuesday June 18^th from 10:30 with coffee (we can bring a sweet) and end at 2.  The deposit was $250, the cost for a buffet will be $27.84 per person and we need to guarantee 30 attendees.  Max will begin the auction at 11:00.  Jill recommended the club subsidize this event and make the cost $25 for members and guests.  Linda Van De Car moved to accept this recommendation.   LuAnn seconded.  All were in favor.

Membership    Meredith Stevens

Programs     Ann Schieber

Patti will be presenting at the next meeting.  In the past, she has not accepted an honorarium.  Her EAGC postings on Facebook were noted.  To thank her for her dedication and commitment to the club, a motion was made by Max and seconded by Nance to give her a gift a certificate to attend the June luncheon.  All were in favor.

Public Relations    Mimi Brett

Ways & Means     Carole Chanasyk and Dianna Thompson

                       Promise Tree – Lee Cooper, Johann St. Laurent, Edy Wyrick

Members will be reminded to pay when they sign up for an event.

Lee is considering organizing a “cleanup Betsy’s garden” in the spring.

Meredith is considering a raffle.

Linda S will have garden books available for sale.  She will also host Bunco on March 15^th.

Web Manager   LuAnn Faber   There were major problems with the website that LuAnn successfully negotiated after hours on the phone, computer etc.  We needed a PHP update for $103.  The website data was migrated to a new website and the old website was disconnected. Members will notice no difference. Going forward everything will be backed up each two weeks and there will be free updates.   A secure website (https) would be $240 annually. The board did not feel this was needed. The GoDaddy hosting fee is $9.99 a month or $120 for two years.

GoDaddy charges an $85 annual fee to detect and remove malware.  Following a discussion, Max moved and Linda Van de Car seconded that we purchase that service.

Yearbook    Max Forward   No report

 Decisions made:

Betsy Appleby’s memorial donation was doubled

The club will subsidize the $2.84 difference in the price charged for the luncheon

Patti will be given a gift certificate for the luncheon

Subscription to remove malware approved

We adjourned at 11:30 on a motion by Max which was seconded by LuAnn.

Submitted by Linda Sadlock

 

 

EAGC Board Meeting

January 3, 2019

 President  Susan welcomed everyone and called the meeting to order in the home of Jill Compton @ 10:05 a.m.  She thanked Jill and Mimi for hosting and announced Betsy is home at last.

Those 17 in attendance are italicized.

Susan will be away next month and Linda will “take charge”.  The February board meeting will be at Connie’s.  No board meeting in scheduled for March but there will be a budget meeting.  Susan will host the April board meeting.  She will send an email to the board with those changes.

The joint meeting with Rye Driftwood Garden Club will be Tuesday January 15^th at the Rye Congregational Church.  Susan will send out a reminder  to the general membership.  Ann will send her the RDGC hostess contact information and Susan will organize the refreshments.

Vice President   Linda Sadlock

Corresponding Secretary   Florence Whicher

 Recording Secretary  Vicki Burns was absent.  Linda S. took the minutes.

Treasurer     Jill Compton    There is $ 6534.90 in the treasury, compared to almost $9000 last year.  One hundred and forty five dollars was from the Promise Tree.  The subsidy  for the December luncheon was $334.71.   Ninety dollars of that was for a vegetarian luncheon.  She will talk to Lynda about that and suggested we consider a third menu choice going forward.

Following a discussion about donations received in memory of Sue Bowman and Betsy Appleby,  Jill moved we donate $50.00 to the Wiggin Library in Stratham in Betsy’s name.  Max seconded the motion and all were in favor.  Jill paid a bill from Churchill’s for holiday greens and was informed they will no longer bill for merchandise and the discount will be reduced from 20% to 10%.  Lee suggested we use Scamman’s  Home and Garden in the future.

Awards  Anne Campbell

Civic Beautification  Nance Jordan and Donna Wilson   Nance received a thank you note from the director of the Exeter Historical Society for the holiday decorations.

Design    Connie Gilmore and Ann Hohenberger  were thanked for the holiday workshop.  There were approximately 12 attendees.  Mimi requested photos.

Ann mentioned the Exeter Board of Selectman is considering implementing a fee schedule for the Senior Center.  Other options would be the Stratham Municipal Complex,  Historical Society and library.  Susan also offered her home.  However, considering all the club does for the town of Exeter, an exemption might be requested so we can continue to us the Senior Center.

Lee proposed an Ikebana hands-on workshop on for about a small group. She will follow up with Ann and Connie.

Environment & Conservation    Linda Van De Car and  Betsy Vershay  The mini grant application will be updated and publicity will begin soon.

Herbs Lynda Broadbent

Horticulture    Ann Hohenberger  LuAnn will a provide a “hort” moment in January and Max in May.

Hospitality     A chairwoman is needed.  Susan will contact the committee to provide refreshments for  the January coffee.  The job description for this position needs to be reviewed.  There were several suggestions/recommendations made regarding the supplies, responsibilities,  use of committee members and the need to send information for the yearbook.  Preparations need to begin for the June luncheon.

Membership    Meredith Stevens  Ginny Bulmer will be in charge of membership at the joint meeting in Rye.

Programs     Ann Schieber reviewed the upcoming programs.

Public Relations    Mimi Brett requested information and photos for and from events/happenings.

Ways & Means     Carole Chanasyk and Dianna Thompson  Members were reminded to save “stuff” for the yard sale on May 4th.  LuAnn will post the information on craigslist.  Dianna will contact Foy Insurance.  We might have to pay  for more publicity.  There will be a 50/50 but no cookies.  Only water and coffee will be sold.

                        Promise Tree – Lee Cooper, Johanna St. Laurent, Edy Wyrick

The mushroom field trip was a success.  A mushroom luncheon is being considered.  Lee is considering organizing  a “cleanup Betsy’s garden” in the spring.

Web Manager   LuAnn Faber

Yearbook    Max Forward

We adjourned at 11:10 on a motion by Linda.  Max seconded and all were in favor.

Submitted by Linda Sadlock

 

EAGC General Meeting

October 18, 2018

Susan Canada called the meeting to order at 10:10 after social and refreshment. There were 44 people in attendance (6 guests for Awards).

The Awards Committee presented the Residential Award to Joe Fisher. The Commercial Award went to Graham Tire & Auto and Deshenes Landscape Service. Matt & Dan Deshenes gave small talk on project. The Community Award went to Judy Sheldon for her continued work at the Exeter Library. Judy was president of this club from 1992-1993 and gave a short talk about the Library effort. She had Blue Indigo seed pods to share.

Susan then thanked Hospitality and all that came today. An update on Betsy Vershay and Connie Gilmore was presented. Everyone got to look under their chair for who got the monthly prize.

Budget: Jill Compton gave report on funds
Civic Beautification: Bandstand will be dismantled 10/22 see signup; Veterans Garden Report – watch for emails
Design: All about flowers; 1st workshop in December
Environment & Conservation: Please see the Fire Poster display and quiz later
Herbs: See Parsley goodies at back table
Horticulture: Deer Proofing your garden: brief summary by Linda and see website for details
Membership: Recognized visitors and one new member
Programs: There was a timing conflict with Awards and Speaker so we will reschedule the Forage for Food talk for later
Public Relations: ads for the local papers
Ways & Means: Bake sale for election day 11/6 and Yard Sale on May 3rd
Promise Tree: Trip to Woodman Museum in Dover NH was small and did not see everything so may repeat. November 11 is trip to Mushrooms and we will meet at Park & Ride in Hampton – see the website. There is a silent auction for great house plant on back table. Linda has two plants left for sale, raspberry & blueberry – need garage storage for winter. Ann is planning a walking tour in Exeter.

Fire Quiz was held before closing meeting at 11:10am.

Respectfully submitted,
Vicki Burns, Recording Secretary

 

EAGC Board Meeting 
October 4, 2018

Susan Canada called the meeting to order at 10:10 after social and refreshment. There were 14 members in attendance. An update was given on Betsy Vershay and Connie Gilmore. The donation discussion was tabled till a future meeting.

Susan mentioned that we got dinged for leaving the kitchen messy after the meeting but stated that it was messy when we arrived, but we need to make sure it is perfect when we leave the facility. She then asked for reports from the various groups.

Awards: wants to do 3 awards again this year
Civic Beautification: watch emails for dates to dismantle bandstand
Design: Thinking about 11/14 but could do Christmas workshop; watch emails
Environment & Conservation: Mini Grants were on posters at first meeting and next meeting is Fire
Horticulture: Linda will present next month
Membership: 2 guests at last meeting and 1 joined. Ginny is joining the membership group.
Programs: Are as listing in yearbook.
Ways & Means: Bake Sale Nov 6th at SST 7am-12; watch emails for volunteering and where to bring baked goods. Yard Sale date is May 3 with setup Friday May 2.
Promise Tree: Tour on 10/10 to Woodman Museum in Dover NH only has 3 sign-ups. Linda still has blueberry and raspberry plants for sale for Promise Tree.
Website: LuAnn reported that there are some issues with GoDaddy, our provider. Discussed security https vs what we use as http. Discussed difficulty of change. Decided to discuss again later.

Susan agreed to send out the Board meeting locations and hostesses as it was months ago that it was sent.
Completed at 11am.
Respectfully submitted,
Vicki Burns, Recording Secretary

EAGC General Meeting
September  20, 2018

Susan Canada called the meeting to order at 10:10 after social and refreshment. There were 38 in attendance. An update on Betsy Vershay, who fell and broke her hip, provided rehab location as Rockingham County Rehab in the Singer building. Member Marilyn Ayles also fell and is recovering at home. Susan asked that cards be sent and that members call or visit. A flyer from the Durham Garden Club was passed around to notify us of an invite to their 9/25 meeting on “Ecology & Botany of Star Island”. Everyone got to look under their chair for who got the ceramic Pumpkin prize.

Susan then introduced the officers for the year, thanked hospitality and all that came today. She said to make sure you see the mini-grant displays at the back of the room. Susan explained that our first meeting is an introduction of all our groups so that new members might know where they can volunteer. After the introduction and report by the groups, we would break into our groups to discuss plans for the year. New members should visit groups they are interested in joining.

Awards: given for commercial and residential gardens
Budget: Jill Compton gave report on funds
Civic Beautification: Bandstand report; Veterans Garden Report, need water and weed help 10/22-10/28; also need help with Veterans Garden before 11/11 ceremony.
Design: All about flowers; 2 workshops and April meeting
Environment & Conservation: explained about the coffee punch; discussed mini grants and that we awarded funds to 10 of the 15 applications this year; see the back table displays for before and after pictures.
Herbs: hope to do monthly displays and organize the Christmas Luncheon
Horticulture: share with club monthly a horticulture moment; This month: take time to enjoy things as they fade, so many clean up gardens too early and disturb habitats, think of landscapes as whole ecology. There is a predator for the red lily leaf beetle and they will get more information.
Hospitality: Organizes members to bring in food and does the June luncheon
Membership: Introduced 6 new members and 2 guests. We currently have 54 members.
Programs: organizes the programs for the year. Gave a short description of each month. November is joint with Hampton and at EAGC location. January is joint with Rye at their location.
Public Relations: ads for the local papers
Ways & Means: Fundraiser for club and will do Yard Sale again and in April. Start a box at home with things to donate for the yard sale.
Promise Tree: Also fundraiser as all proceeds go to the club. This is a great way to meet others in the club and participate in fun activity. First one this year is trip to Woodman Museum in Dover NH.
Website: LuAnn has been working to make the site easier to navigate. If you have any issues with log on or finding items on the site, please contact her.
Yearbook: Gather information of events and members to produce our annual yearbook.
After summary, about 11:10 am , groups found a spot to meet and discuss the year. By 11:40, some groups were done and started with pickup to signal the end of our meeting. The doors were locked at 12:20pm.

Respectfully submitted,
Vicki Burns, Recording Secretary

EAGC Board Meeting
June 7, 2018

Betsy Vershay and Jill Compton called the joint meeting to order at 10:15 a.m. at the Stratham Municipal Center. New board members Vicki Burns, Meredith Stevens, Lee Cooper and Johann St. Laurant were introduced and welcomed. Current board members Florence Whicher, Carol Chanasyk, Anne Campbell, Nance Jordon, Linda Sadlock, Dianna Thompson, Connie Gilmore, Ann Hohenberger, Lynda Broadbent, Linda van de Car, Jann Bova, Mimi Brett, LuAnn Faber, Betsy Appleby, Susan Canada, Edie Wyrick, Max Forward were present. Jann Bova and Mel McGrath who are leaving the board were thanked.

A sign-up sheet for hosting next year’s board meetings was passed.

Anne C had a word about Sue Bowman’s death on June 1st. She spoke about Sue’s work/commitment/involvement in/to/ and for the community. She provided information about Sue’s Celebration of Life Services on Sunday. Dianna moved we donate to the Saint Vincent de Paul Food Pantry in Sue’s memory. Her motion was seconded by Max. Betsy moved the donation be $100, which Jann seconded. All were in favor of both motions.

Florence will send a welcome card to our new members. She did send a card to Hazel who had back surgery.

Susan reported there is $6525.88 in the treasury. Thirty three members renewed and paid for the luncheon. She received $20 in cash and does not know who or what it is for. The fiscal year ends on the 30th.

Nance said the bandstand looks nice and had a release form from the town of Exeter for those who are working on town property. There is one spot left for maintenance on the Labor Day weekend.

Linda Van de Car thanked Edie for a successful year and all those who purchased the pollinator book. She gave an update on the butterfly chrysalis. E & C will have two baskets at the luncheon. One will be raffled. The other will be for the member who brought their coffee cup to the most meetings. There will be no summer party.

Lynda’s trip to Maudslay State Park in Newburyport was not scheduled due to her illness. Max invited members to use her car park pass if they want to visit the park and save $10.00.

Ann has seven horticultural members and would like more to join her and Connie. Connie and Ann were thanked for the wonderful Asian design workshop and tea ceremony. Connie is in awe of Ann and wants her name to appear first in the board positions. They are all set for the April meeting with live flower arrangements/demonstrations.

Anne C will install the board at the June 20th luncheon. Betsy A. reports all is going as planned with nice food and the “wonderful” and “not so wonderful raffle” baskets.

Jann assured there will be a smooth transition as she leaves the chair of the membership position. There are three new members: Donna Richardson, Barbara Herron and Jennifer Howard have joined the club.

Mimi was thanked for her publicity efforts. She reminded the board members to submit information.

Carole reminded all her garden was open for visitors and invited everyone to attend after the meeting. She and Dianna are planning for next year’s yard sale,

LuAnn was thanked for all her efforts to keep us informed. Mention was given to Patti’s Facebook EAGC notices.

Max will take new photos and updates for the membership directory anyplace anytime. She just needs an updated committee list which Jill volunteered to provide. The deadline for submission is mid-July.

The meeting was adjourned at 11:15 a.m. and we all enjoyed brunch provided by the current and outgoing board.

Respectfully submitted,
Linda Sadlock, recording secretary

EAGC General Meeting Minutes
May 17, 2018

Betsy and Jill called the meeting to order after refreshments at the Stratham Municipal Complex at 10:00 a.m. Jill welcomed everyone, thanked hospitality and made announcements.
Four members, LuAnn, Betsy, Jill and Anne, attended the UNH awards program. Anne spoke about Ruth and presented the Ruth Dubenitz scholarship to Patrick Howard, a returning UNH student.

On a side table the arrangements from Wednesday’s design workshop were on display. That workshop began with a tea ceremony and moshi, which is ice cream with sticky rice.

The board of officers for 2018-2019 was announced. Sukey moved to accept the slate. Carole seconded. All were in favor.

The budget for 2018-2019 was presented. Linda Van de Car made a motion to accept it which Dianna seconded. The motion was passed unanimously.

There is $5600 in the treasury following disbursement of $2500 in mini-grants.

The liners for the bandstand were planted yesterday with red and white petunias. Planting at the bandstand will be Wednesday May 23rd at 9:30 a.m. Volunteers need to sign a liability form when working in Exeter. There are a few openings for maintenance at both the bandstand and the Veteran’s Garden.

Linda V. distributed the pollinators’ booklet to those who ordered them. She announced there were 15 mini-grant applications due to better publicity and an increase in the grant amount. Ten were awarded. Five were in Exeter, two in East Kingston, one in Kensington and two in Nottingham.

Ann presented a “hort” moment on Aucuba Japonica which has a purple bloom. She also recommended members “get potting” for the plant auction. The luncheon will be at the Portsmouth Country Club on June 20th.

Carole thanked everyone for the yard sale success and the missing apron was returned.
A new member was announced. A guest was introduced and she won the herb plants that were raffled off by Betsy. Jann announced a program in Gilmanton which she will have posted on the website.

Ann mentioned some of the programs for the coming year. There are two openings. Please send her suggestions

The Promise Tree needs donations.

Jamie Colen from Fuller Garden’s program about “Dispelling Myths about growing Roses and Other Garden Plants” began at 10:30 a.m.

We adjourned at 11:35 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Linda Sadlock, recording secretary

EAGC Board Meeting Minutes
May 3, 2018

Betsy Vershay and Jill Compton called the meeting to order in the home of Carole Chanasyk at 10:02 a.m. In addition to Carole, Florence Whicher, Anne Campbell, Nance Jordon, Donna Wilson, Linda Sadlock, Dianna Thompson, Connie Gilmore, Ann Hohenberger, Lynda Broadbent, Linda Van de Car, Jann Bova, Mimi Brett, and LuAnn Faber were also present. Carole and Mimi were thanked for hosting.

The Ruth Dubenitz $2000 scholarship will be presented to Patrick Howard by Anne C at the UNH Thompson School Awards Ceremony. Jill, Betsy and LuAnn will also attend. A sign-up sheet for the 10:00 a.m. June 7th old/new board meeting brunch at the Stratham municipal center was passed around. Linda Van de Car requested an increase in the mini-grant budget. Since 2011, there have been 64 grants awarded for a total of $9,568.00. This year there was an increase in award amounts and thanks to publicity there are 14 applicants. Jill suggested the money come from the $500 not spent on the scholarship and the $500 not used last year on mini-grants. LuAnn agreed and made a motion. Jann seconded. All were in favor.

According to Anne C, Sue Bowman came home on her birthday. Members are asked to send a card and call in advance to arrange a visit. Jill will send an email to the membership about her recovery.

In Susan’s absence, Betsy reported there is $8404.88 in the treasury. There was $1373.67 from the yard sale. Considering the dues and luncheon costs, there should be $9400 at the end of the year minus the mini-grants. Given the previous motion to increase the mini-grants, Linda Van de Car requested an increase in the 2018-2919 E &C budget to $2000. LuAnn moved and Jann seconded. There was no further discussion and all were in favor of the increase.

Nance passed around three sign-up sheets for the summer work schedule and planting.

The Asian design workshop will be on May 16th from 2-4 and will include a tea ceremony.

E & C will have the 12 ordered booklets on pollinators ready for the general meeting. They will also meet Tuesday to review the mini-grant applications and decide on the recipients. The checks will be mailed by Thursday.

Lynda is planning a trip to Maudslay State Park in Newburyport when the rhododendrons are in bloom.

Connie will have a “Hort” moment for the website.

In Betsy A’s absence, Jill spoke about the June 20th luncheon. She advised members to prepare their plants and label them for Max to auction. It was suggested that next year we have our June luncheon without a plant auction.

Jann is willing to work with the new membership chairwoman Meredith Stevens.

Betsy announced the next program will be Jamie Colen from Fuller Gardens.

Mimi was thanked for her publicity efforts. She reminded the board most of the publicity is free and at the discretion of the editor.

Dianna mentioned she paid $32.50 for an ad in the paper to promote the yard sale. She also noted we made $90 from the 50/50 raffle, $40 from the cookie sale and $400 from table rentals. She noted there is an EAGC apron missing.

LuAnn will put a note about that in the website blast. She will also remind members to pay in advance for the luncheon. On another note, she provided interesting statistical information about inquiries on our website. Most of the inquiries are from strangers.

A summer a trip to The Butterfly Place in Westford, MA is planned.

The meeting was adjourned at 11:30 a.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Linda Sadlock, recording secretary

Following the meeting, Mimi announced a meeting Tuesday May 8th at the Wiggin Library at 4:00 on Village to Village. This organization, started in Beacon Hill, enables seniors to stay in their own homes as they age with services provided as needed.

 

 

EAGC General Meeting Minutes
April 19, 2018

Betsy called the meeting to order after refreshments at the Stratham Municipal Complex at 9:55 a.m. There were 32 in attendance. She welcomed everyone, thanked hospitality and made announcements.

The June 20th luncheon will be subsidized by the club and cost members $20.00. The Rye Driftwood and the Hampton Garden Club will be invited to join us. The cost for guests is $30.00. There will be several plant sales in the area: Hampton May 19th at the town hall, Rye Driftwood May 18-19th at the 481 Central Road and the Newton Greenhouse.

Betsy announced we had three guests.

Mel reported the Ruth Dubenitz Scholarship will be presented to an UNH student at their May 4th awards dinner.

Betsy A. passed the sign up sheet for the luncheon attendance and coffee hostesses for next year.

According to Susan there is $8749.18 in the treasury. She also reminded members to look for garden bucks in with their name tags.

Max will take photos with her cell phone for the directory.

Dianna and Carole will be ready to set up for the Yard Sale tomorrow at 3:00 p.m.

Jann read the names of the guests.

Becky reminded members, now is the time to divide plants for the plant sale. Please include the name of the plant on the label along with its requirements regarding sun, soil, moisture. Include bloom color, time of bloom and size at maturity. This will help place them in the proper category for the auction.

Linda V. announced the end of the pollinator season presentation by wearing a beautiful butterfly tee shirt. The deadline for mini grants is May 1st. Ann H. had a display about oak trees that supply nutrients and hospitality to over 400 critters. She also announced the design workshop for May 16th.

Jill passed around Nance’s sign-up sheet for the bandstand and Veteran’s Garden.

The member program was presented at 10:25 a.m. with Lynda Broadbent singing a song under her umbrella. LuAnn presented “How to Care for Composting Worms”. Becky Mitchell showcased books relating to garden history. Carol Chanasyk demonstrated how to make a hydrangea wreath. Pat Navin demonstrated how to get your tools ready for the spring planting season. Carol Chambers presented a display on “Dill” featuring some yummy recipes. Lynda closed the program with another song.

Following that, Jill raffled off some donated items from the presenters.

We adjourned at 11:45 a.m.

There was also a follow up announcement about the Stratham Recreation Department’s May 22nd trip to the Wright Museum of World War II with lunch at the Grill Café. The cost is $27 for residents and $45 for non-residents. The bus leaves at 8:15 a.m. and returns at 3:15 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Linda Sadlock, recording secretary

 

 

EAGC Board Meeting Minutes
April 5, 2018

Jill Compton and Betsy Vershay called the meeting to order in the home of Linda Van de Car at 10:04 a.m. In addition to Linda, Susan Canada, Anne Campbell, Nance Jordon, Donna Wilson, Linda Sadlock, Ann Schieber, Carole Chanasyk, Dianna Thompson Connie Gilmore, Ann Hohenberger, Lynda Broadbent, Edie Wyrick, Betsy Appleby, LuAnn Faber and Max Forward were also present. Linda V. and Ann H. were thanked for hosting.

Jill announced she declined an invitation to participate in “Art in Bloom” at the Ogunquit Museum. The event will be June 22-24 and the art work was to be chosen by the museum and assigned. She also mentioned the daffodil show at Tower Hill on May 5th and 6th. There will be an open house at the home of the daffodil lady, Dianne Mrak 72 Bay View Road Dover, NH Mother’s Day from 9-3. For those interested in visiting Celia Thaxter’s garden. There is information and dates at www.shoalsmarinelaboratory.org Another open house at Riverwoods arboretum is planned.

The Slate of Officers and the budget for 2018-2019 was distributed. The sign-up sheet for hospitality was also passed among the attendees.

The Hampton, Rye Driftwood and possibly Little Boar’s Head garden clubs will be invited to attend our annual plant auction and luncheon on June 20th. The price will be $30 and members will receive a $10 discount. Susan will check the invoices from previous luncheons for the exact cost.

Ann C. will conduct the initiation of officers and Max will be the auctioneer.

Susan will follow up on the gift for the Stratham Municipal Center and will have a recommendation at the next board meeting.

There will be 6 presenters for the April general meeting.

There is currently $1505 donated in Ruth’s memory. The club will add additional money so we can present a $2000 scholarship to a second year student at the May 4th dinner at the UNH Thompson School.

Betsy V. sent a card to Florence who is recovering from surgery and one to Sue Bowman who is in rehab.

There is $9459.90 in the treasury. We started the year with $6273.00. The budget will be voted on at the general meeting.

Ann C. said the awards committee was under budget.

In Nance and Donna’s absence, Jill will pass around the sign-up sheet for civic beautification.

Connie will present a design workshop with an Asian theme.

Linda V. reported on the mini grants. There will be a May first deadline. To date, they have four applications and 4 more are possible, thanks to the article in the Carriage Town News. Members requesting a copy of the E & C Pollinators and Pollination: The Year in Review booklet need to pay $5.00 for a May delivery.

Lynda is planning a trip to Maudslay State Park in Newburyport when the azaleas are in bloom.

Ann H. will continue with a hort demonstration each month.

Betsy A. passed the menu from the Portsmouth CC for luncheon suggestions. She will meet with her committee to discuss table decorations, raffles etc. soon.

Ann mentioned some of the programs for the coming year. We will host the Hampton GC in November.

Carole and Dianna went over some of the details for the yard sale. LuAnn will resend the email about this fund raiser and what is expected from the membership. There will be a 50/50 raffle in addition to the coffee and cookies.
Linda S. will host bunco on April 10th for the PT. She will also provide composting worms to Rolling Green Nursery for two workshops. The proceeds will go to the PT.

Instead of a garden party this summer, a trip to The Butterfly Place in Westford, MA is planned.

The meeting was adjourned at 11:40 a.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Linda Sadlock, recording secretary

 

EAGC General Meeting Minutes

February 15, 2018

The theme for the coffee was the Olympics. The table was decorated with colored rings, white hydrangea and international flags. Garden bucks were given to members as they picked up their name tag at the membership table.

Jill and Betsy called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m. at the Stratham Municipal Complex. Jill thanked the hostesses and had a garden quiz. Betsy raffled off a rain gauge. There were 30 in attendance.

The March meeting will be Wednesday the 14th with the Hampton Garden Club in the evening. Arrangements will be made for carpooling, etc. E & C will bring their pollinator display to the joint meeting. There will be no board meeting in March but the nominating, scholarship and budget committees will be meeting. Jill asked and received two more members for the nominating committee. One more member also offered to give a 10 minute presentation at the April meeting, so there will be five.

The yard sale will be April 21st. Members are reminded to save and price items.
There was a nice article in The Carriage Town News.
There is $9484.51 in the treasury.

Before Ann presented the speaker, she announced some local programs and passed around the evaluation forms from the November presentation and asked those who attended to complete it.

At 10:30 a.m., Ann introduced Patti Elwell, member and past president, who spoke about “Harvesting & Drying Flowers and Herbs”. Patti explained how to dry fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices using a dehydrator, microwave, oven or large book. She demonstrated how to harvest, clean, dry, store, use, and decorate with them. She emphasized the healing, calming and health benefits of teas. She explained what is edible on a plant, what to do to prevent mold when preserving and how long to keep seasonings. Patti raffled off bulbs, plants, seasoned salt, etc. She spoke until 11:30 a.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Linda Sadlock, recording secretary

 

EAGC Board Meeting Minutes
February 1, 2018

Jill Compton and Betsy Vershay called the meeting to order in the home of Donna Wilson at 10:10 a.m. Mel McGrail, Linda Sadlock, Susan Canada, Anne Campbell, Nance Jordon, Donna Wilson, Linda Van de Car, Jann Bova, Ann Schieber, Carole Chanasyk, Dianna Thompson and Max Forward were also present.

There was a discussion about the recent speaker. Her presentation was too long and not in keeping with the title. Going forward they will be allotted about an hour. Jill gave Ann two completed surveys from the November presentation.

The Promise Tree is disheveled and leafless. Jill spoke with Connie about this and mentioned some of her comments. The tree will be kept as it is until Susan can find a suitable replacement. However, there will be a suggestion box next to the tree and events will be posted on the website calendar.

Jill proposed members be issued Garden Bucks and that the club should subsidize $20.00 of the luncheon cost. Dianna moved to give members $10 garden bucks in February, which will be good for 2018. Jann seconded and all were in favor. The luncheon subsidy will be considered as we get closer to the date.

Susan will follow up on the gift for the Stratham Municipal Center. Two hundred dollars for new chairs like the black ones already purchased was recommended.

Jann advocated we issue membership cards again. Dianna will contact Exeter Copy and More (ECM) for folded EAGC stationary cards with envelopes and membership cards. She will also inquire about updating the sandwich board sign that Mel has. The bill will be sent to Susan.
Jann also recommended the by-laws pamphlet be updated. They were in 2012 and a now available on the website.

Jill has 4 presenters for the April meeting and would like one more. She will ask Becky and at the meeting.

There is currently $1405 donated in Ruth’s memory. Jill contacted Ann DeMarco at SST and there are no candidates for a scholarship at this time. She had a few suggestions and will get back to Jill. In the meantime, Mel will contact UNH.

A Nominating Committee will be formed but there are no plans for a membership drive.

There is $9219 in the treasury.

Nance cleaned up the Historical Society holiday decorations.

Linda will continue with the pollinators presentations.

Ann asked for program recommendations with contact information.

There will be an article in Stratham Magazine. Betsy passed around an article with a photo of the yard sale that appeared in a recent Carriage Town Newspaper.

The meeting was adjourned at 11:25 a.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Linda Sadlock, recording secretary

 

 

EAGC General Meeting Minutes

January 18, 2018

Jill and Betsy called the meeting to order after refreshments at the Stratham Municipal Complex at 10:00 a.m. There were 33 in attendance.

Jill reminded us that if school is closed, there will be no meeting. She also thanked Lynda for arranging the lovely Christmas luncheon.

Betsy drew the name of the free raffle, which was a small yellow planter.
Jill asked for more reluctant volunteers to present six 10 minute demonstration at our April meeting. LuAnn offered to speak about vermicomposting.

Susan has received $1305.00 in Ruth Dubenitz memorial donations. She suggested we increase the amount and offer a scholarship in Ruth’s name. There is $9214.00 in the treasury.
Carole reminded everyone to save yard sale items.

Mimi submitted an article to Stratham Magazine regarding the mini grants and will submit one about the yard sale. Please send her any details for future articles.
Jann introduced a guest.

Betsy A thanked who provided refreshments and reminded those who are on the list for next month.

Linda Van de Car asked those in attendance to check out the Environment and Conservation presentation on pollinators. She showed the difference between butterflies and moths by changing from a bright color to a drab color. The committee will compile a summary of their presentations for distribution in April. She also spoke about ways to feed birds and squirrels during the winter using pine cones, fruit, peanut butter, etc. for a Hort moment.

Nance read a thank you note from the Exeter Historical Society for the holiday decorations.
Ann passed around the handouts from last month’s presenter and asked those who attended to complete an evaluation form.

At 10:20 she introduced Lauren Chase-Rowell who presented 10 principles of “Outdoor Sustainable Rooms and Ecological Landscape Design. She spoke until noon.

Respectfully submitted,
Linda Sadlock, recording secretary

 

 

EAGC General Meeting Minutes
November 16, 2017

There were 47 attendees at our meeting.

Jill Compton & Betsy Vershay welcomed everyone, and shared with the group that Ruth Dubenitz’s memorial service will be this Saturday at the Exeter Cemetery. Ruth chose our garden club in lieu of flower donations, and we have received $250 to date.

Our Holiday Luncheon will be on Thursday, December 14th at the Wentworth Country Club. The garden club is subsidizing the cost for members. It will be $20 for members, $30 for non-members. Everyone is asked to bring a $15 wrapped gift.

Betsy Vershay is having her amazing Swap Shop Christmas party at her house on Monday, December 18th. The cost is $10, and there are only 2 spaces left.

Anne Campbell, Sue Bowman and Mary Jo Chadwick presented this year’s Civic Beautification Awards:
St Vincent DePaul won for business. They are located on 35 Lincoln St. next to Arjays Hardware in Exeter.
The Pridham Garden on 23 High St. in Stratham won the Residential Award.
A special Honorary Award was presented to David Donsker in Terri’s memory.
All award recipients invited members of the garden club to visit their gardens.

Nance Jordan has asked for help with Holiday decorating at the Historical Society.
Please contact her regarding time and date. nancyjordan@live.com

Linda Van de Car reported the Environment & Conservation committee will be focusing on pollinators this year. They will have handouts throughout the year, and at year’s end, will create a booklet about this very important topic.

Ann Hohenberger presented the beautiful Fall arrangements created at the Design workshop yesterday. She also gave a “Hort Moment” on boxwoods, and the Aucuba plant.

Ann Schieber introduced our guest speaker, Emily Chakarian, presenter of “Winter Gardening and Putting Your Garden to Bed.”

Respectfully submitted,

Linda Sadlock, Recording Secretary

 

 

EAGC Board Meeting Minutes
November 2, 2017

Presidents Jill Compton and Betsy Vershay called the meeting to order in the home of SusanCanada at 10:03 a.m. The names of the 18 in attendance are italicized.

Following a discussion about meeting minutes, it was decided that there will be a notation of the General Meeting i.e. attendance, decisions made, etc. in the following Board Meeting minutes. Once they are corrected, the minutes will be sent to LuAnn Faber for inclusion in Happenings on the website.

The joint meeting with the Rye Driftwood Garden Club was reviewed. Unfortunately there was landscaping and parking lot issues but that does not explain low attendance by our members. It was decided that a brief questionnaire regarding club communication, etc. and will be prepared for the January meeting. A suggestion box and a member at large were also mentioned. Holiday gifts for members who are shut in were considered.

The club will contribute $10 towards the cost for each member who attends the Holiday Luncheon. The cost for a member will be $20 and a guest will be $30. There have been no requests for us to participate in community service projects.

Vice President Mel McGrail-no report

Corresponding Secretary Florence Whicher sent out appropriate cards.

Recording Secretary Linda Sadlock-no report

Treasurer Susan Canada noted there is $7786.82 in the treasury. To date $245 was raised from the Promise Tree and there are two current and one pending event.

Awards Anne Campbell and Sue Bowman-no report

Civic Beautification Nance Jordan and Donna Wilson There was a good crew to dismantle the bandstand. The boxes are still in place and will be used for holiday decorations. A sign-up sheet for decorating the Historical Society was passed and arrangements will be made with Independence Museum. Nance will send thank you notes to those who helped with the maintenance of the bandstand and will send photos to Mimi for publicity.

Design Connie Gilmore and Ann Hohenberger There are 9-10 signed up for the design workshop. The arrangements will be displayed at the General Meeting the following day.

Environment & Conservation Linda Van De Car and Edie Wyrick In an attempt to encourage applications, there will be some changes in the administration of the Mini-Grants. The amount will be increased to $100-$400. Applications will be accepted from March until May 1st. The money granted will be sent out by May 15th. Publicity will be geared for March. The application will be revamped to make sure a plan and/or plant list is provided. A photo will be requested when the garden is planted and a reminder to do that will be sent with the grant check. The committee will be open to special cases after the application deadline.

Herbs Lynda Broadbent had the sign-up sheet for Holiday Luncheon available.

Horticulture Ann Hohenberger will have a “hort” moment at the meeting.

Hospitality Betsy Appleby will inventory supplies and exchange keys with Betsy Vershay.

Membership Jann Bova reported a former member rejoined.

Programs Ann Schieber-no report

Public Relations Mimi Brett reviewed the publications she uses and will continue to include an invitation to attend and join EAGC in her articles.

Ways & Means Carole Chanasyk and Dianna Thompson-There are several tables already reserved for the April 21st yard sale

Promise Tree – Susan Canada, Mel McGrail, Connie Gilmore There are three upcoming events

Web Manager LuAnn Faber is doing a great job.

Yearbook Max Forward-Birth date and month were included this year.

Our hostess and her assistants were thanked and we adjourned at 11:19 a.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Linda Sadlock, Recording Secretary

 

EAGC General Meeting Minutes
October 19, 2017

Call to Order: The meeting was called to order at 10:00 by Co-President Betsy Vershay.

Welcome: Betsy welcomed the members of the Rye Garden Club to our annual joint meeting which was attended by 78 members from both clubs. She thanked the two Hospitality Committees for the delicious refreshments.

Announcements: There were several announcements regarding upcoming events: Design Workshop on November 15; Two Promise Tree events – Halloween Party on October 27 and Cookie Swap on December 6; Civic Beautification will be dismantling the plantings at the Bandstand soon; Christmas luncheon will be on December 14. Betsy also noted the Mini-Grant poster displayed by the Environment and Conservation Committee. Jann Bova introduced four guests attending the meeting.

Program: Co-President Jill Compton introduced Liz Barbour, owner of the Creative Feast. She is a cooking instructor and the author of Beautifully Delicious, Cooking with Herbs and Edible Flowers. Liz is also a frequent guest on WMUR’s Cook’s Corner. Today’s topic was about incorporating flavor into our meals by using herbs and edible flowers. The members sampled her Herb and Flower Salad and a Garden Herb Soup.

Respectfully submitted,

Susan Canada, Acting Recording Secretary

EAGC Board Meeting Minutes
October 5, 2017

Presidents Jill Compton and Betsy Vershay called the meeting to order in the home of Dianna Thompson @ 10:05 a.m. Those 16 in attendance are italicized.

There was a discussion about Ruth Dubenitz and her current medical condition/accommodations and the request for get well cards etc. Jill will follow up and give recommendations.

The logistics for the joint meeting with Rye Driftwood Garden Club were discussed. There will be no raffle, promise tree or signup sheets. Some announcements and save the date will be made.

We will not be participating in the Portsmouth or Exeter Festival of Trees but will consider making a donation of $100-$200 for the Exeter event.

LuAnn and Carole will switch hosting board meetings in January and May. Mimi will assist with LuAnn and Edie with Carole.

The April program will be 4-5 members who will present a 10 to 15 minute garden related demonstration or performance. The $25 allowance will be available for supplies for each participant.

Vice President Mel McGrail – no report

Corresponding Secretary Florence Whicher – no report

Recording Secretary Linda Sadlock – In Linda’s absence, an attendee will be asked to take the minutes at the board meetings. Minutes at the general meeting will be taken as needed.

Treasurer Susan Canada There is $8050.82 in the treasury. She received a thank you note from the Audubon Society for the donation made in Terri Donsker’s memory.

Awards Anne Campbell and Sue Bowman The recipients have been informed and will be recognized at the November meeting. The commercial award will go to St. Vincent de Paul’s food pantry. They also have a memorial garden worth visiting at 53 Lincoln Street in Exeter. The residential recipients are Cathy and Sherm Pridham at 23 High Street Stratham. There will be an honorary award presented to David Donsker to acknowledge Terri’s garden. Mimi will work on publicity highlighting the awards. The committee will pick up the signs from past awardees.

Civic Beautification Nance Jordan and Donna Wilson   Nance passed a sign-up sheet to dismantle the bandstand on the 17th and/or 18th. The caterpillars are enjoying the petunia flowers and the ivy is damaging the cement. Both will be addressed with the appropriate people.

Design Connie Gilmore and Ann Hohenberger – no report

Environment & Conservation Linda Van De Car and Edie Wyrick They will bring the mini grant poster to the joint meeting.

Herbs Lynda Broadbent  The Christmas luncheon on December 14th will be announced at the next meeting for members to save the date.

Horticulture Ann Hohenberger – no report

Hospitality  Betsy Appleby   Dianna is hostess for the joint meeting. She will inventory the supplies, shop and make the event special. Members will be reminded to bring their coffee cups to meetings again. There was a discussion about purchasing an item to be offered as a free raffle drawing at meetings.

Membership Jann Bova – no report

Programs Ann Schieber   Hampton Garden Club is considering a program on Tasha Tudor for November 2018. Tasha was a gardener, cook and illustrator. Programs for this year will be on target for approximately $1000.00.

Public Relations    Mimi Brett will have an article about the club in the next edition of the Stratham Magazine.

Ways & Means Carole Chanasyk and Dianna Thompson – Linda asked if she could contact Patti about selling composting worms through Breakfast Hill Nursery to benefit both.

Promise Tree – Susan Canada, Mel McGrail, Connie Gilmore
Susan said more events than items are needed for the Promise Tree.

Web Manager   LuAnn Faber requested feedback from the Board regarding postings and help from Max to record hits on the website links. Members will be asked for permission before illnesses/injuries /surgery etc. are posted on our website.

Yearbook Max Forward – It’s done!

Respectfully submitted,

Linda Sadlock, Recording Secretary

EAGC General Meeting Minutes

September 21, 2017

Jill & Betsy welcomed all to our first gathering of the year, and to 2 new members, Audrey Belle-Isle from Rye, and Mary Jo Reynolds from Stratham. Hospitality was also thanked for their yet-to-be eaten treats. Jill presented fun and informative Fall Facts throughout the meeting, with no test afterwards.

Applelicious Afternoon was a great success in August at LuAnn Faber’s home.

Susan Canada, Treasurer, presented the Treasurers Report.
• We have paid all our bills, mini-grants and the scholarship and are in great shape.
• Currently we have $7,995, which Susan feels is too much. There was a discussion about doing more for members, increasing the amount of money given for mini-grants, and reducing the money we carry in our account.
• The Promise Tree continues to be a wonderful fundraiser, and a great friendship builder. Susan acknowledged Connie Gilmore for bringing this fun activity to our club.

Max Forward, Yearbook Chair, handed out our new yearbooks, and asked everyone to check their listing and to give her corrections if necessary. Members were asked to look at the committees they signed up for. Jill & Betsy asked that Chairs use their committee members, and that committee members be available when asked.

LuAnn Faber, Website Chair, urged members to use it, and to especially look at the new monthly features, such as the Hort Tips. Many of the pages are open to the public, but many features are reserved for members only. LuAnn stressed that if anyone is having trouble using the website, contact her. She is more than happy to help members. Our website is now our main method of communication.

Dianna Thompson, Chair of Ways & Means, shared that we are having a yard sale in April, and to save treasures we no longer want until then.

Mimi Brett, Chair of Public Relations, has placed an article about our club in the October issue of Stratham Magazine.

Betsy Appleby, Chair of Hospitality, said we had a great plant auction and luncheon in June. Next year our date will be June 20th from 11-3.

Becky Mitchell presented a much awaited Hort Moment regarding dividing plants, and how to do cuttings of scented geraniums. She advised members not to use bone meal as it is processed much differently now than in years past, and it now attracts rodents and dogs – not welcome guests in our gardens.

Becky has posted some Fall garden suggestions on our website, and urged members to check them out. Today she spoke of ordering bulbs, and why not to put our gardens to bed yet as perennials are still putting down roots.

Herbs will be presenting monthly displays, and is working on our festive Christmas Luncheon.

Linda Van de Car, E&C Chair, invited members to see the mini-grant display her committee created. It’s our 7th year of giving grants, having given 64 grants, for over $10,000. There was a discussion as to changing our criteria for applying for a mini-grant to encourage more participation. Members were asked to give thought as to how we can expand this fun and community building endeavor of the club.

Ann Hohenberger, Chair of Design, said design classes will meet the day before a General Meeting so results can be displayed at the meeting. There will not be an “Artful Arrangers” program this year.

Nance Jordan & Donna Wilson, Chairs of Civic Beautification, thanked all for their help in tending the Bandstand and Veterans Garden. The Veterans Garden still needs help on weeks Oct 9th & 23rd. Please contact Donna if you can help.

Anne Campbell, Chair of Awards, said they will be presenting this year’s awards in November.

Respectfully Submitted.
Melanie McGrail