Master Gardener Volunteer Meeting

July 10, 2025

Opening and Pledge of Allegiance

Pam welcomed all, and our MGV armed service veterans led us in the pledge.

Committee Reports

• Bring One Take One (Exchange Only) – Bob and Marianna Eister: Bob announced the event will take place rain or shine, Aug.9th. Committee members received an email regarding who is working and the directions regarding the event. Please arrive at 8:30am as guests will start arriving by 9:30am. BOTO will start at 10am and include about 5 rounds of exchanges.
• Canfield Fair – Jim Zeleznik: Kristen has a water feature to give to Tom. Gail said they are in need of children’s size umbrellas for display.
• Community Outreach – Thresea Harris: The Veggies and More Monday night events are going well. There were about 20 at the Dorothy Day House tour. Community is having fun attending and learning, and playing educational events. The next tour on 7/14 is at Flying High Grow Urban Farm.
• Education – Karen Gates and Stephanie Hughes: Karen attended the Lavender Farm and said they had beautiful bouquets of lavender to collect. There is an upcoming field trip on July 15^th from 10-12 at Bending Oak Permaculture Farm. The address is 100 Cottage Grove Drive, 44505. If it rains, the event will be cancelled.
• Hospitality – Natalie Fraser and Peg Zeleznik: A sign-up sheet for the BOTO was passed around.
• New and Active Pollinator Gardens – Marilyn McKinley and Gail Siembida: Pinky has been handling the Lisbon Garden at the Columbiana Fairgrounds.
• OSU Extension Grounds – David Burnham and Paula Kohler: David said the committee has been busy weeding, dead-heading, and watering the beds. One order of wood chips has been delivered, with more to come.
• Plant and Pest Clinic – David Sprague: David said they are very busy in the clinic now and gave us examples of questions they have received recently.
• Recruitment and Retention – Marilyn McKinley and Kary Shively: Marilyn announced that a list of people has been contacted to encourage their participation in the MGV program. A table with info on OSU MGV program will be set up at the BOTO and Canfield Fair. An open house is planned for sometime in October.
• Veterans Committee- Chester Kaschak, Carol Kirsch, and Al Leonhart: Carol has ordered 110 wreaths. The cost to sponsor a family is $10.

Administration Report:

• Kristen announced that the Morning with the Masters library talks are going well. We are in need of a host at the July 16^th Boardman library (Linda Dolak is unable to help). Marilyn M. is presenting on Ohio pollinators.
• Columbiana County Fair Sign Up: Let the office know if you can help at the MGV table to give out info about OSU MGV program and to answer gardening questions.
• Canfield Fair Sign Up: Signup sheets were available at the end of the meeting. Kristen discussed expectations if one signs up to help. She has limited fair entrance tickets. If you cannot attend your designated day/time, please return your ticket to the office. Please wear your MGV shirt and ID and plan on helping and sharing time for the bathroom, drinks, etc. Someone has to be there always. There are three shifts during the day: 10-2, 2-6 and 6-9. The event is in building #25. You will receive a parking pass for our OSU Ext. parking lot and must park at the back of the lot as the front is available for community paid parking. Kristen advised us to come early for the parking space and enjoy the fair.
• Threshold Garden Demonstrations –Let the Office know if you can do this.
  • July 23^rd at 10 a.m. Topic: Top 10 ways to improve your garden (can be adjusted if an available MGV has a different topic they’re more comfortable with) Location: Threshold Community Garden, 71 W Taggart St, East Palestine, OH 44413 Setup: Picnic tables and benches @ garden for seating, no PPT required, demonstration-type class
  • August 19^th at 10 a.m. Topic options: Planning for your Fall Garden, or a garden art class – (topic dependent upon MGV preference, $$ is available for purchasing garden art materials if that is an interest in fairy gardens or painted rocks) Location: Threshold Community Garden, 71 W Taggart St, East Palestine, OH 44413 Setup: Picnic tables and benches @ garden for seating, no PPT required, demonstration-type class
• Save the Date:
  • Columbiana County Fair: July 28-Aug.3
  • Veggies and More: Monday Nights, June through August
  • BOTO (exchange only): August 9^th
  • Canfield Fair: August 27- September 1
  • State Conference (Awards): October 9-10 at Secrest Arboretum
  • Wreaths for Our Veterans: Dec 6th

Old Business

• Officer and Chairperson Nominations at the October Meeting
• Registration is open for conference.

New Business

• Lois is looking for volunteers to sponsor the Bug Mobile event on July 19 from 1-4. Donations will help reduce the cost of $800.
• The upcoming 60^th Annual Horticulture Show by the Gardeners of Greater Youngstown is Aug.23&24 at Fellows’ Riverside Gardens. The event is free and will include a youth division. You may consider entering, as ribbons and prizes are awarded in every category. There is a flower arrangement and fairy garden category this year, too. Or just plan on attending and enjoying!
• Stephanie Hughes was in attendance, and she said she was very happy to be back as she missed everyone!
• Natalie Fraser was thanked for all her help as the host at a recent library event.

Closing

• Adjournment – Next Meeting: Aug. 14^th
• Reminder: Vindy Articles are needed! Contact Chevula at 1@osu.edu.

Volunteer Opportunities:

Please see Kristen if you are interested.

• East Rochester Garden Club – Pruning for landscape flowers on 9/16/2025.
• Country Kids and Kritters 4-H – Helping youth start a new pollinator garden.

Submitted by Marie Belfast, Recording Secretary

Master Gardener Volunteer Meeting

June 12, 2025

Opening and Pledge of Allegiance – Mark Williams led us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Committee Reports

• Bring One Take One (Exchange Only) – Bob and Marianna Eister – Marianna announced the flyers are done. The committee met today and there are still available assignments for MGVs to sign up. MGVs should arrive at 8:30 am on August 9th. People will start dropping off their plants at 9:30 and the plant exchange will start at 10 am. We will have tables set up for Recruitment and Retention, Plant and Pest Clinic, and Hospitality.
• Canfield Fair – Jim Zeleznik – Jim told us there will be a planning meeting on Tuesday, August 5^th from 5:30 – 6:30 pm. The theme will be What Are Your Garden Wishes. If you have plants you would like to bring, let Jim know so he can work it into the display planning.
• Community Outreach – Thresea Harris – The last Veggies and More was cancelled. The Paw Paw Orchard may be rescheduled. The Youngstown Botanical Garden tour is scheduled for 6/16 at 6 pm at 528 West Indianola Ave, Youngstown. There is a sign up for this event.
• Education – Karen Gates and Stephanie Hughes – Karen announced a field trip is scheduled for July 5^th from 10 am – 12 pm to go to a pick lavender event in Canton. We will have to carpool. You will need to meet at the extension office, so we can leave by 8:30 am.
• Garden Workshop – Patty Kacenski and Jim Merva – No report.
• Hospitality – Natalie Fraser and Peg Zeleznik – Natalie told us there is a signup sheet to bring baked goods for the Bring One Take One event.
• New and Active Pollinator Gardens – Marilyn McKinley and Gail Siembida – Pinky announced they were working at the fairgrounds in Lisbon today. Marilyn told us the pollinator garden at Waterworth Park in Salem is now being taken care of by Bee City. It is a success story because the plan was to have a group in Salem maintain the pollinator garden.
• OSU Extension Grounds – David Burnham and Paula Kohler – David told us they planted vegetables in the raised planter by the shed. The other planters at the extension office have been planted with different summer flowers. They wanted to give a variety of ideas. David said 400 annuals were planted at the extension, some of them were purchased by the extension and some were donated by MGVs.
• Plant and Pest Clinic – David Sprague – David reported there has been an increase in questions in the last week as the weather has improved.
• Recruitment and Retention – Marilyn McKinley and Kary Shively – Marilyn told us they will start planning for an open house.
• Veterans Committee- Chester Kaschak, Carol Kirsch, and Al Leonhart – Carol said the Wreaths for Veterans is going well. Tractor Supply told her they don’t expect there to be an increase in price for the wreaths. 100 wreaths will be needed for the 100 veterans at the North Georgetown cemetery. Carol told us she has been working with the cemetery to have the flags put down for Veteran’s Day, that were used for Memorial Day. Carol told us they’ve been distributing information in North Georgetown to increase community awareness of the plans. John Schoeni has been assisting because he’s from the area. GD Worth American Legion in North Georgetown will be there for the ceremony. They were encouraged to ask a Junior student from West Branch High School to play TAPS.

Administration Report

• Apparel Order – Kristen told us she expects our order to come in 6 weeks from now and we should receive them prior to the Canfield Fair.
• Save the Date:
  • Veggies and More: Monday Nights, June through August
  • BOTO (exchange only): August 9^th
  • Canfield Fair: August 27- September 1
  • State Conference (Awards): October 9-10 at Secrest Arboretum
  • Wreaths for Our Veterans: Dec 6th

Old Business

• MGV Conference Scholarship- $40 each – Kristen announced the scholarship winners. She said she will need to register for us and each of us will pay our part for the conference to the extension.
  • Bob Eister
  • Carol E. Smith
  • Kathy Costa
  • Karen Gates
  • Stephanie Barkay

New Business

• Officer and Chairperson Nominations at the October Meeting – Kristen will check with anyone nominated to make sure they accept the nomination. There will be an online ballot to vote on the candidates.
• The October meeting will be the 1^st Thursday (October 2), instead of the 2^nd This is due to the MGV Conference.
• Stephanie announced that after the meeting, Eileen Dray-Bardon will present information on the Columbiana County Park District.

Closing

• Adjournment – Next Meeting: July 10^th
• Reminders:
  • Vindy Articles are needed! Contact Chevula at 1@osu.edu.

Volunteer Opportunities:

Please See Kristen if you are interested

• East Rochester Garden Club – Pruning for landscape flowers on 9/16/2025
• Way Station Columbiana – Gardening Tips June 26^th
• Threshold Garden- Variety of demos and hands-on activities needed throughout summer

Submitted by Kathy Costa, Recording Secretary

Master Gardener Volunteer Meeting

May 8, 2025

Opening and Pledge of Allegiance- Chester Kaschak led us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Committee Reports

• Bring One Take One (Exchange Only) – Bob and Marianna Eister – No report.
• Canfield Fair – Jim Zeleznik – Kristen announced the committee will meet Tuesday, May 27 at 5:30 in the office.
• Community Outreach – Thresea Harris –Good Nature Gardener Partners program applications are due May 23^rd. The Veggies and More Tour will start June 2^nd and will be every Monday night at 6 pm. Anyone interested in helping with the Cityscape’s event may still do so, however, they have run out of t-shirts.
• Education – Karen Gates and Stephanie Hughes – Karen announced that you may pick your own bouquets of lavender at Sandy Creek Ventures from 10-12pm on the following Saturdays: 6-21,6-28,7-5 and 7-12. Their address is 9336 Mapleton St. SE, East Canton, OH 44730. If you are interested in doing the trolley tour of Mill Creek Park on May 20 from 3-4 let Karen know asap.
• Garden Workshop – Patty Kacenski and Jim Merva – Patty thanked all who helped with this event. It was very successful.
• Hospitality – Natalie Fraser and Peg Zeleznik – No report.
• New and Active Pollinator Gardens – Marilyn McKinley and Gail Siembida – Merabeth (Pinky) reported they are working at the Columbiana County Fairgrounds weekly, removing thistle and weeds.
• OSU Extension Grounds – David Burnham and Paula Kohler – David said the committee has been busy cleaning, pruning, and mulching the grounds. The old shed was emptied out, and a new shed was set up with all the necessities. He thanked the committee members and requested cardboard of any kind be donated for the next project, which will be discussed in an upcoming email. The Extension grounds look great, and a big “thank you” to this committee was given.
• Plant and Pest Clinic – David Sprague – Questions are flowing into the clinic and David welcomed all to help on Mondays or Thursdays from 9am till noon.
• Recruitment and Retention – Marilyn McKinley and Kary Shively – No report.
• Veterans Committee- Chester Kaschak, Carol Kirsch, and Al Leonhart – Carol reported that for the next two years the North Georgetown Cemetery veterans’ graves will receive wreaths. This year’s event will take place on Dec.6. Donations of $10 per wreath would be greatly appreciated. Donation forms are available in the office.

Administration Report

• There will be a training class in 2026 applications are available and due by December 5^th. An R & R open house will be planned after the fair.
• Apparel Order- Orders will be placed on 5-9. If you haven’t paid for your order, payment must be made before orders are placed.
• Pollinator Palooza – 2 more helpers needed for this event on 5-10 from 8am till 12:30pm. See Kristen
• Pollinator Garden Clean-Up – Let Kristen know if you can help pull weeds in our pollinator garden this upcoming week. (not on a rainy day)
• Good Natured Garden Partners- See Kristen for info.

Old Business

• MGV Conference Scholarship
  • To be considered for the scholarship, you must fill out the application entirely and submit it by May 15th at 5:00 pm. The event is on Oct 9&10 at Secrest Arboretum in Wooster.

New Business – Marilyn McKinley thanked all for the support, love, cards, and flowers at the recent passing of her husband. She was deeply touched, and the kind words have really helped her and were very much appreciated.

Closing

• Adjournment – Next Meeting: June 12^th
• Reminders:
  • Vindy Articles are needed! Contact Chevula at 1@osu.edu.
• Save the Date:
  • Veggies and More: Monday Nights, June through August
  • BOTO (exchange only): August 9^th
  • Canfield Fair: August 27- September 1
  • State Conference (Awards): October 9-10 at Secrest Arboretum
  • Wreaths for Our Veterans: Dec 6th

Volunteer Opportunities:

Please see Kristen if you are interested

• East Rochester Garden Club – Pruning for landscape flowers on 9/16/2025
• Way Station Columbiana – Gardening Tips May 22^nd and June 26^th
• Threshold Garen- Variety of demos and hands-on activities needed throughout the summer

After the meeting, Chevula presented “Writing Basics for MGV” and encouraged us to send ideas to her before writing articles for the Vindy to prevent duplications.

Submitted by Marie Belfast

Master Gardener Volunteer Meeting

April 10, 2025

Opening and Pledge of Allegiance – Al Leonhart led us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Committee Reports

• Bring One Take One (Exchange Only) – Bob and Marianna Eister – Bob announced there will be a planning meeting for BOTO at 5:30 pm on June 12^th. An email will go out to the committee members about the planning meeting. The BOTO will be held on August 9^th at 10:00 am.
• Canfield Fair – Jim Zeleznik – Jim informed us the committee will meet on Tuesday, April 29^th from 5:30 – 6:30pm. The theme is “What are your Gardening Wishes?”
• Community Outreach – Thresea Harris – Thresea told us the Christmas tree was ordered.
• Education – Karen Gates and Stephanie Hughes – No report.
• Hospitality – Natalie Fraser and Peg Zeleznik – Natalie informed us to bring in baked goods on Friday before 4:30pm or early Saturday morning.
• New and Active Pollinator Gardens – Marilyn McKinley and Gail Siembida – No report.
• OSU Extension Grounds – David Burnham and Paula Kohler – David told us they will do general cleaning tomorrow. He also said they were doing a special project next week.
• Plant and Pest Clinic – David Sprague – No report.
• Recruitment and Retention – Marilyn McKinley and Kary Shively – No report.
• Veterans Committee- Chester Kaschak, Carol Kirsch, and Al Leonhart – Carol announced they will be doing the wreath ceremony at the North Georgetown cemetery. A meeting is being planned to meet with the trustees.
• Garden Workshop – Patty Kacenski and Jim Merva – Jim told us he has made a few necessary changes to the assignments. Everyone should have their assignments. We will set up the table and chairs and fill goodie bags at 1:00pm on Friday. On Saturday, we should be there no later than 8:30 am. The doors of the extension will be unlocked at 8:00 am. Kristen told us 23 attendees have registered.

Administration Report

• There will be a training class in 2026; applications are available and due by December 5^th.
• Flying High Series – Volunteers are needed for the Urban Fruit Tree Pruning Clinic at the Hope for Newport on April 19^th and Mahoning Valley Campus of Care on April 19^th. If you can help, notify Kristen.
• Help with the Fabric Frenzy 4/29 & 4/30 – Kristen told us she will need help on April 29^th and April 30^th from 9am – 4pm to help prepare for the Fabric Frenzy on May 2^nd and 3^rd. Please let her know if you are planning on helping.
• Apparel Order – Kristen announced she sent out an email notifying us about apparel we could order. The order is due by May 1^st. If you are interested in ordering anything, please complete the survey at https://osu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_ePcAoXiHtKd61o2 If you don’t want to order any apparel, let Kristen know.

New Business

• MGV Conference Scholarship
  • The 2025 MGV State Conference will be held in Wooster at the Secrest Arboretum. The dates of the Conference are Thursday October 9th and Friday October 10th. The total price of the conference is $75.00. Mahoning County will be offering 5 $40 scholarships to active MGVs and 2 $40 scholarships to the newest classes (2022, 2023, 2024). To be considered for the scholarship you must fill out the application entirely and submit it by May 15th at 5:00 pm.
    • https://osu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_24RFSFWdITGdvcW
  • Columbiana Garden Art Classes – If you are interested in doing a Garden Art class in Columbiana County, let Kristen know. You could do one of the Garden Art Classes that have been done in Mahoning County.
  • Stephanie Hughes shared with us that Nancy Brundage, emeritus MGV, is housebound. Nancy’s birthday is April 11^th, if we want to send her a birthday card. Stephanie would also like to arrange a date, so a group of MGVs could take Nancy a birthday cake and visit with her at her house. Notify Stephanie if you want to be part of the group to visit Nancy. Nancy’s address is 64 Winona Ave. Canfield, OH 44406.
  • Marilyn McKinley’s husband passed away. There is a card for us to sign to offer condolences. If you would like to send her a card, her address is on your contact sheet.

Reminders:

• Vindy Articles are needed! Contact Chevula at 1@osu.edu.

Volunteer Opportunities:

Please See Kristen if you are interested

• Greenford Community Library – Open to any gardening topic, including wildlife, pollinators, seeds, etc. Summer Timeframe for Adults and Children. Noon preferred.
• East Rochester Garden Club – Pruning for landscape flowers on 9/16/2025.

Closing

• Adjournment – Next Meeting: May 8^th

After the meeting, Stephanie Barkay introduced our speaker, Jason Short of Beaver Creek Wild Life. Jason presented Birding Bonanza.

Submitted by Kathy Costa

Master Gardener Volunteer Meeting Minutes

March 13, 2025

Opening and Pledge of Allegiance: President Pam Baytos led us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Committee Reports

• Bring One Take One (Exchange Only) – Bob and Marianna Eister: Marianna announced Aug 9^th as the date for this event. There is a committee meeting on June 12^th @ 5:30 pm in the small classroom before the regular monthly meeting. The BOTO exchange with be moved inside if it rains. The event will be announced at the upcoming Spring Garden Workshop. Plant and Pest Clinic table and general info table will be set up as well as coffee and drinks.

• Canfield Fair – Jim Zeleznik; Committee members will meet March 31^st 5:30-6:30 in large classroom.

• Community Outreach – Thresea Harris: The first Veggies and More tour is Monday, June 2^nd at 6 pm at Flying High (Greenhouse). Other summer Monday events are in planning stage.

• Education – Karen Gates and Stephanie Hughes: Karen said there is a spreadsheet with PowerPoint info if you need that info. A spring field trip to the lavender gardens in Ellsworth is being planned. Karen has put together a PowerPoint/Video of last year’s field trip to the Fig Tree farm and will present it after the June meeting.

• Hospitality – Natalie Fraser and Peg Zeleznik: Peg announced there is a sign-up sheet available for the upcoming Spring Garden Workshop. Breakfast snacks and lunch desserts are requested (Lunch is being provided by the Extension Office).

• New and Active Pollinator Gardens – Marilyn McKinley and Gail Siembida: no report

• OSU Extension Grounds – David Burnham and Paula Kohler: David said the committee met before the main MGV mtg and they will meet again on March 24^th @ 2pm. The committee would appreciate any plant donations for the OSU grounds. Please notify Paula or David if you have plants to donate to the extension gardens.

• Plant and Pest Clinic – David Sprague: There will be two training meetings for the clinic both sharing the same information. Dates are March 25^th or 28^th from 10am-12pm.

• Recruitment and Retention – Marilyn McKinley and Kary Shively: no report

• Veterans Committee– Chester Kaschak, Carol Kirsch, and Al Leonhart: Carol announced they will meet April 10 @ 5:30pm in the small classroom.

• Garden Workshop – Patty Kacenski and Jim Merva: Jim said there is a meeting on March 20 @ 1:30 pm in the large classroom and he will provide a list of volunteer sign-ups and their descriptions. The event is on April 12. The day before on April 11 @1pm they will set up tables and put together goodie bags. Vindy article was in the paper and we are asked to share the event on Facebook and anywhere else. Flyers are available at the office. Door prizes will be given at the event.

Administration Report

• There will be a training class in 2026 applications are available and due by December 5^th. Applications are available in office and fillable on-line.
• Garden Art Helpers: sign-up sheet in back. Remember to enter your volunteer and educational hours to qualify for a free class.
• Flying High Series: If you are interested in speaking at one of the events let Kristen know. Please note that there is no power or screen so there would not be powerpoints used.
  • May: Transplanting from Growers to Your Garden
  • July: Common Pests in Your Garden (Maybe use the Pest Cards)
  • August: Harvesting
• Salem Historical Society – Native Appalachian Plants in May 2025 – Stephanie Barkay
• MGV Hours Log, if needed: MGV hours sheet was available on back table
• Fruit tree Pruning Clinic: April 5^th at the White House Fruit Farm at 2pm. Other fruit tree clinics will take place in Mineral Ridge (Flying High) and at the Hope for Newport Veggies and More Tour. We are hoping to schedule on at St. Pat’s Orchard.

New Business

• PowerPoint Presentation Class: Let Pam know if you are interested in getting help in making a PowerPoint presentation. If you have a presentation and would like to practice presenting it and/or get advice on your work let Stephanie Barkay know.
• Lawrence County, PA Symposium on Gardening: Kristen announced the event is on April 5 9am-3:30pm. It will be similar to ours and a fee is required. More info on-line. https://extension.psu.edu/your-best-garden-ever-symposium
• CityScapes Event: Lois said there is a breakfast on March 21 at 8am but you must register by March 15 online. Look for more info on their website. https://youngstowncityscape.org/
• Tulip Experience: Whitehouse Market this spring

Closing

• Adjournment – Next Meeting: April 10^th
• Reminders:
  • Vindy Articles are needed! Contact Chevula at 1@osu.edu.

Volunteer Opportunities:

Please See Kristen if you are interested

• MYCAP Senior Center (Northside) – Have new raised beds, want education on how to grow veggies and when to plant. March or April Timeframe preferably in the afternoon.
• Greenford Community Library – Open to any gardening topic including wildlife, pollinators, seeds, etc. Summer Timeframe for Adults and Children. Noon preferred.
• East Rochester Garden Club (Columbiana) – Pruning for landscape flowers on 9/16/2025

After the meeting, Jas Matalik presented a program on permaculture entitled “Regenerative Gardening- Growing the Way Nature Does”. He works in Liberty at the Bending Oaks Facility.

Submitted by Marie Belfast, Secretary

Opening and Pledge of Allegiance –

• Veterans led us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Committee Reports

• Bring One Take One (Exchange Only) – Bob and Marianna Eister
  • Save the Date August 9^th
• Canfield Fair – Jim Zeleznik – No report
• Community Outreach – Thresea Harris – Thresea
  • Veggie and More will start planning in April.
• Education – Karen Gates and Stephanie Hughes
  • Stephanie told us the education kits are ready to be introduced, and they are planning to implement them.
• Hospitality – Natalie Fraser and Peg Zeleznik – No report
• New and Active Pollinator Gardens – Marilyn McKinley and Gail Siembida – No report
• OSU Extension Grounds – David Burnham and Paula Kohler
  • David told us there will be an organizational meeting on the March 13^th prior to the monthly meeting and a pruning clinic later, watch for updates.
• Plant and Pest Clinic – David Sprague
  • They are working on winter projects.
• Recruitment and Retention – Marilyn McKinley and Kary Shively – No report
• Veterans Committee- Chester Kaschak, Carol Kirsch, and Al Leonhart
  • Carol told us a meeting was held today. They discussed possible cemeteries. The committee is looking for a cemetery with 100 Veterans, probably Veterans of WWII or after. If there’s more than 100, there may be donations to provide wreaths for more or could split them between 2 years.
• Garden Workshop – Patty Kacenski and Jim Merva
  • Jim gave us an update on the Garden Workshop. The workshop will be on April 12^th from 9am – 3:30 pm. There will be 1 workshop. Flyers are available so take them and post the flyers in garden centers or other locations; A signup sheet was passed around. The committee had signed up for spots at the committee meeting and there are 26 openings available for MGVs to sign up. Jim said there will be 3 breakout sessions with 3 options each time. The Friday before, we will fill the bags we will give out at the workshop.

Administration Report

• There will be a training class in 2026 applications are available and due by December 5^th. MGVs should get the word out so those interested could apply by mail or online. The cost is $225. There will also be an OCVN training class if anyone is interested.
• Pollinator Palooza – May 10^th – Mahoning County Partners will be holding a native plant sale on May 10^th from 9am – 12pm at 850 Industrial Rd, Youngstown. MGVs will be helping with this. This is a new event. If you are not able to be there the entire 4 hours, you can share your time with a partner and split the hours. You would need to communicate with your partner before relieving you, the information they need to take over. You can notify Kristen to sign up.
• Garden Art Set-Up – The 2025 schedule is completed and hosts are needed. At least 5 are needed for each Garden Art demonstration and 9 are needed for the holiday demonstrations. You can notify the office to sign up
• Morning with the Masters Update – The classes are filled with presenters and hosts. The first class at the library had 53 attendees. There are 2 hosts for each class. One of the hosts will take their box of information and flyers. Hosts will assist the presenters by letting them know how many minutes are left with signs. Kristen sent out emails to hosts and presenters.
• Flying High Series – Kristen is looking for MGVs to help with this series of education from April to August at the downtown farm. Contact her for more information
• MGV Hours Log, if needed – This form was developed to keep track of your HOC hours.
• OQC Update – There’s been a problem with the Occasional Quality Cooks training website. It is being worked on.
• Fruit Tree Pruning Clinic will be on April 5^th at Whitehouse Farms by Eric Barrett, Chevula Motswaledi, and David Hull. If you have a class coupon, it can be used for this clinic.

New Business

• Move or Cancel October Meeting – The October Meeting will be on October 2^nd, after a vote from MGVs in attendance.
• State Awards – The State Awards will be at Secrest Arboretum in Wooster on October 9^th and 10^th.

Closing

• Adjournment – Next Meeting: March 13^th
• Reminders:
  • Vindy Articles are needed! Contact Chevula at 1@osu.edu. Send Vindy articles to Chevula.

Volunteer Opportunities:

Please See Kristen if you are interested

• MYCAP Senior Center – Have new raised beds, want education on how to grow veggies and when to plant. March or April Timeframe preferably in the afternoon.
• Greenford Community Library – Open to any gardening topic including wildlife, pollinators, seeds, etc. Summer Timeframe for Adults and Children. Noon preferred.

Master Gardener Volunteer Meeting

December 12, 2024

Opening and Pledge of Allegiance- President Pam Baytos opened the meeting and led us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Committee Reports

• Community Outreach – Thresea Harris and Lois Martin-Uscanowski: Thresea announced our Mill Creek Park Fellows Riverside Garden Christmas tree was decorated on December 4^th. Thresea told us the tree turned out nice and thanked everyone for their help. The tree will be taken down on January 2, 2025, at 12:00 pm.
• Veterans – Al Leonhart, Mike Beaudis, and Chester Kaschak: Mike announced the Wreaths for Veterans Ceremony was held on December 7^th. The ceremony was very nice, and the American Legion presented colors, did a 21-gun salute and played Taps. Carol Kirsch will be taking over the Wreaths for Veterans.

Administration Report

• HOC Help Day Wednesday December 18^th from 9 am to 7 pm Last Effort: Kristen will be available to help any of us who need help with HOC. You may want to bring your own device but there will be iPads available, if needed. Your hours need to be put in by December 15^th and all active members need to be recertified by December 31^st. To recertify, you have to sign off on Child Abuse, Integrated Pest Management, and Standard of Behavior forms. We want to maintain our Platinum status, so we need all active MGVs to recertify.
• Time to trim your trees and shrubs! We need Greenery for 12/17 & 12/18 classes. We need pine, cedar, holly, boxwood and other greenery for our last Garden Art classes. You can bring in your greenery on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday next week. If the office is not open, you can leave it outside. This also counts as Volunteer hours.

Old Business.

• New Chair people – Starting in January: Pam introduced the Chairs and Co-chairs of the committees for next year.
  • Bring One Take One (Exchange Only) – Bob and Marianna Eister
  • Canfield Fair – Jim Zeleznik
  • Community Outreach – Thresea Harris
  • Education – Karen Gates and Stephanie Hughes
  • Garden Workshop – Patty Kacenski and Jim Merva
  • Hospitality – Natalie Fraser and Peg Zeleznik
  • New and Active Pollinator Gardens – Marilyn McKinley and Gail Siembida
  • OSU Extension Grounds – David Burnham and Paula Kohler
  • Plant and Pest Clinic – David Sprague
  • Recruitment and Retention – Marilyn McKinley and Kary Shively
  • Veterans – Chester Kaschak, Carol Kirsch, and Al Leonhart
• Hours need to be completed and entered in to HOC by December 15
• Our Banquet will be January 9^th – Please RSVP to the office by December 23
• State Dues of $15 will be due to the office by Friday January 31

New Business

• Garden Workshop Topics– Patty Kacenski and Jim Merva: Jim updated us on the plans for next year’s Garden Workshop. If you are interested in presenting a breakout session, notify Jim or Patty. The date of the workshop will be April 12^th, and the title is “Gardening That Works for You”. Jim told us about the following plan for the workshop:
  • One Saturday workshop only, not two consecutive Saturdays.
  • We juggled the schedule a bit to add a third breakout session.  Breakout sessions will be 45 minutes each.
  • Registration is at 9 AM, but the Keynote session will start 15 minutes earlier at 9:30 AM.
  • Besides the breakout presentations done by the MGVs, alternatively there will be AM and PM Garden Art sessions and a walkabout (weather permitting).
  • A “save the date” will go out in January.
  • A flyer will be ready in February.
  • Committee members can sign up for volunteer duties in February.
  • Non-committee members can sign up for volunteer duties in March.
  • A Vindy article is already drafted but will not be finalized until the Keynote and Cap Note speakers are confirmed.
• Morning with the Master- Greeters needed. – Kristen announced we are going to start having Greeters for our Morning with the master’s classes. The Greeters will allow new MGVs to get experience in watching more experienced MGVs doing presentations. Two Greeters are needed to answer questions and give attendees packets on our upcoming programs, flyers and information on how to be an MGV. We may be able to start offering attendees drinks and snacks but are waiting on approval from the library.
• Recertify by December 31^st.
• We enjoyed a Christmas gardening poem presented by Marilyn.
• After the meeting, Kristen presented lead an activity to reflect on ourselves and the MGV program as a whole.
• Adjournment – Next Meeting: Banquet January 9^th!
• Reminders:
  • Vindy Articles are needed! Still contact Eric.
  • State Lunch and Learn started October 8
  • HOC Help Day Wednesday, December 18^th from 9 am to 7 pm
• Salem Public Library is interested in someone speaking on invasive plant in April or May. – Patty Kacenski and Kathy Martin

• Salem Historical Society- May 2025 Native Appalachia Plants. Contact Haley Shoemaker at 330-967-7249 or 306@osu.edu Stephanie Barkay

Submitted by Kathy Costa, Secretary

Master Gardener Volunteer Meeting
November 14, 2024

Opening and Pledge of Allegiance

President Pam Baytos welcomed all, and Chester Kaschak led us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Committee Reports

• Community Outreach – Thresea Harris and Lois Martin-Uscanowski: Thresea announced that our Mill Creek Park Fellows Garden Christmas tree will be decorated on Dec.4 at 10:30am. The theme for our tree is garden related which includes garden tools, seed packets. A few examples were shown at the meeting, if you want your garden tool returned, place an address label on the back of it.

Education – Karen Gates: Karen is putting together a presentation of the fig tree field trip and would             appreciate photos or videos if you were present. Send them to her asap.

New and Active Pollinator Gardens – Gail Siembida, Marge Greenisen, and Pinky Steffen: Pinky             announced that clean up was done and thanked Kathy, Natalie, and Carol for their help.

OSU Extension Grounds – Paula Kohler and Mike Beaudis: Paula thanked the grounds committee for        their help with fall clean-up. She will contact her committee by text for one more clean-up from 1-3pm             the week of November 18^th. Even an hour is appreciated. There are wasps in the shed so please be             careful when opening it. The shed also needs to be cleaned out at a later date.

• Plant and Pest Clinic – David Sprague: The clinic is officially closed now. There will be a clinic review on Nov.19 at 11am followed by lunch.
• Veterans – Al Leonhart, Mike Beaudis, and Chester Kaschak: Our Wreaths for Veterans Ceremony is Saturday, Dec.7 from 10-11am at the Canfield Cemetery 315 E. Main St. Please be there by 9:30am to help. The American Legion honor guard will attend as well. We need suggestions for a cemetery selection for next year. Please let the committee know if you have ideas.

Administration Report: Haley Shoemaker reminded us of the following:

• HOC Help Day Wednesday, December 18^th from 9 am to 7 pm à Last Effort. OQC (Occasional Quantity Cooks) training on the same day.
• Volunteer Opportunities at the end of the minutes.
• Time to trim your trees and shrubs! We need Greenery for 11/21, 12/17, & 12/18 classes! Please drop off at the office and thanks! Record your hours for this, too.
• 2025 signup sheet for Mornings with the Masters Library presentations was available. Let the office know if you are interested in presenting at one of these worthwhile community events.
• Kristen will be emailing the chairpeople to set up one-on-one meetings at the beginning of 2025.
• Please RSVP to the MGV holiday banquet by Dec.23^rd. It will be at A La Carte 6pm Jan.9^th.

Old Business

• Winter Holiday Donation: Sleep in Heavenly Peace. Items will be collected December 12^th at the meeting.
  • new in the package twin or twin XL comforters = 1 volunteer hour
  • new in the package pillows = .5 volunteer hours
  • new in the package twin or twin XL Sheets = .5 volunteer hours

New Business

• New Chairpeople – Starting in January
  • Bring One Take One (Exchange Only) – Bob and Marianna Eister
  • Canfield Fair – Jim Zeleznik
  • Community Outreach – Thresea Harris
  • Education – Karen Gates and Stephanie Hughes
  • Garden Workshop – Patty Kacenski and Jim Merva
  • Hospitality – Natalie Fraser and Peg Zeleznik
  • New and Active Pollinator Gardens – Marilyn McKinley and Gail Siembida
  • OSU Extension Grounds – David Burnham and Paula Kohler
  • Plant and Pest Clinic – David Sprague
  • Recruitment and Retention – Marilyn McKinley and Kary Shively
  • Veterans – Chester Kaschak, Carol Kirsch, and Al Leonhart
• Hours need to be completed and entered in to HOC by December 15
• Our Banquet will be January 9^th – Please RSVP to the office by December 23
• We are hoping to have the new committee lists out at the December meeting, so please sign up if you haven’t already.
• State Dues of $15 will be due to the office by Friday January 31
• Jim Merva and the Garden Workshop committee would appreciate ideas for topic presentations for next year’s workshop.

Closing

• Adjournment – Next Meeting: December 12^th
• Reminders:
  • Vindy Articles are needed! Still contact Eric.
  • State Lunch and Learn starts October 8
  • HOC Help Day Wednesday, December 18^th from 9 am to 7 pm

Volunteer Opportunities:

Please See Kristen if you are interested.

• Salem Public Library is interested in someone speaking on invasive plant in April or May.
• Salem Historical Society- May 2025 Native Appalachia Plants. Contact Haley Shoemaker at 330-967-7249 or 306@osu.edu

submitted by Marie Belfast, secretary.

Master Gardener Volunteer Meeting

October 10, 2024

Opening and Pledge of Allegiance

• President Pam Baytos welcomed all and Mike Beaudis led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. We took a moment to remember MGV Eileen Novotny who recently passed away. She will be missed by all.

Committee Reports

• Community Outreach – Thresea Harris and Lois Martin-Uscanowski: Thresea announced that the Fellows Riverside Gardens MGV Christmas tree will be decorated the week after Thanksgiving. The date and time haven’t been decided yet. Thresea was acknowledged for her leadership in the successful summer Veggies and More events. Everyone that attends gains a lot of knowledge and has something to share.
• Education – Karen Gates: There was a field trip recently to a fig tree farm locally and several MGVs attended. They learned about the purple hardy figs and the sweeter white figs. Samples of homemade fig jam were very much enjoyed and appreciated by all.
• New and Active Pollinator Gardens – Gail Siembida, Marge Greenisen, and Pinky Steffen: Gail announced that in Lisbon they are working on clean-up of the pollinator gardens.
• OSU Extension Grounds – Paula Kohler and Mike Beaudis: Mike reported that there was a recent cleanup last week. Hydrangea blossoms will be saved for future upcoming craft classes. Please let the committee know if you want any other items saved before trimming begins. There was some concern about chemicals being used to treat the lawn on the OSU grounds. Kristen said that the Lawn Ranger Company comes routinely to maintain lawn.
• Plant and Pest Clinic – David Sprague: The clinic is winding down and the last day is Oct.31.
• Recruitment and Retention – Bob Eister and Bob Ferguson: Bob E. reminded us to please submit bios and your photo for the directory if you haven’t already done so.
• Veterans – Al Leonhart, Mike Beaudis, and Chester Kaschak: Mike said the placement of veterans Christmas wreath event is on Dec. 7 at 10 a.m. at the Canfield cemetery on Route 224.

Administration Report

• MGV Apparel is at the office, please pick it up.
• HOC Help Day Wednesday October 23^rd from 9 am to 7 pm – Kristen announced that HOC help day is open to all MGVs and interns to come in for help with HOC between 9 am to 7 pm if you need assistance. Kristen will be available to assist anyone who needs help. Letters were sent to anyone who had not met the required hours. Please come in for help if you need assistance. 50% of the MGVs have already met the required hours for this year. Unfortunately, hours for May and June of 2024 are missing for MGVs and interns that had been entered into HOC.
• Volunteer Opportunities on the back. – Please check the back for opportunities available for volunteer hours.
• Don’t trim your trees and shrubs yet! We need greenery for the Garden Art Series for the Holiday Containers and Holiday Centerpieces. If you have pine, fox head, cedar, hydrangea heads, or any other plants with greenery or branches with berries please wait to trim them for the classes if possible. Branches 2 feet in length are needed, if possible. Volunteers are needed to assist with Holiday Containers on November 13 and November 21. If you want to volunteer for this, notify Kristen and bring gloves and pruners with you.
• Morning with the Masters is changing – Kristen announced these will be free programs held at Mahoning County libraries on gardening topics. We are partnering with the Mahoning County library for education from February to November of 2025. The library is the host and will do the advertising. The education is to be 45 minutes with 15 minutes available for questions. You can notify Kristen to print handouts for your presentation. You are permitted to take MGV flyers. There will be no sign-in sheets for the education. We are not permitted to take the name and contact information of attendees. It is expected that 10-30 people may attend. When doing a class, wear MGV attire. Power point can be used for a class and you’ll need to put the power point on a flash drive to do the presentation. You can partner with another MGV or intern for presentation. Notify Kristen if interested in doing a presentation at a library.

Old Business

• Winter Holiday Donation: Sleep in Heavenly Peace. Items will be collected December 12^th at the meeting. These items are for children and can have children’s prints on them.
  • new in the package twin or twin XL comforters = 1 volunteer hour
  • new in the package pillows = .5 volunteer hours
  • new in the package twin or twin XL Sheets = .5 volunteer hours
• Earlier Meetings in the Winter – meetings will remain the same
• October 24^th @ 6 pm watch party – Please RSVP. Pizza will be available.

New Business

Nominations for Committee Chairs – Kristen told us, anyone nominated will be notified of the nomination for their approval. To finish the nominations, Kristen announced that she will leave the nominations open for 2 weeks, until October 24^th. Kristen will send out the voting and committee selection via email.

Nominations for committee co-chairs were taken from the floor:

BOTO – no nominations taken from the floor

Canfield Fair – Jim Zelernik

Community Outreach – Thresea Harris

Education – Karen Gates and Stephanie Hughes

Garden Conference – Jim Merva and Patty Kacenski

Hospitality – Peggy Zelenik and Natalie Fraser

Pollinators – Gail Siembida, Pinks Steffen and Marilyn McKinley

OSU Grounds – Paula Kohler and David Burnham

Plant and Pest Clinic – David Sprague

Recruitment and Retention – Bob Eister Carol Smith

Veterans – Al Leonhart, Chester Kaschak and Carol Kirsch

Closing

• Adjournment – Next Meeting: November 14^th
• Handout was given to us on Adaptive Gardening by Bob Eister.
• Reminders:
  • Vindy Articles are needed! Still contact Eric.
  • State Lunch and Learn starts October 8
  • HOC Help Day Wednesday October 23^rd from 9 am to 7 pm

Volunteer Opportunities:

Please See Kristen if you are interested.

• YMHA Starting Gardens. Please let Kristen know if you would be interested to help.
  • Lowellville Park- W. Wood Street., Lowellville, OH 44436
  • Norton Manor- 1400 Springdale Ave, Youngstown, OH 44505
  • Vasu Manor- 137 Roosevelt Dr., Campbell, Oh 44405
• South Range School would like help with a school apple orchard. Please let Kristen know if you would be interested to help.
• Boardman Schools would like help learning to graft fruit trees. Please let Kristen know if you would be interested.
• Salem Historical Society- October 2024 or May 2025 Native Appalachia Plants. Contact Haley Shoemaker at 330-967-7249 or 306@osu.edu

Submitted by Marie Belfast and Kathy Costa

Master Gardener Volunteer Meeting

Opening and Pledge of Allegiance

• Pam welcomed everyone and Chester Kaschak led us in the Pledge.
• Al Leonhart announced that the Vindy newspaper had a wonderful article about Chester, his life and service to our country, and all the activities that he continues to volunteer in and support for our military and our community including MGVs. Congratulations to Chester.

Committee Reports

• Bring One Take One – Ryan Emmet-Luchansky and Debbie Tominey: Debbie thanked all MGVs that helped make the BOTO a great, successful event. A thank you note from Ryan was passed around as well.
• Canfield Fair – Jim Zeleznik: Jim thanked all 50-60 MGVs who stepped up to make our exhibit and work at the fair. It was truly a group effort.
• Community Outreach – Thresea Harris and Lois Martin-Uscanowski: Thresea thanked all MGVs who interacted with the community at the Veggies and More Tour Monday night garden events. She said our Fellows Riverside Gardens Christmas tree will be decorated the week after Thanksgiving. Please decorate a garden tool for the tree.
• Education – Karen Gates: Karen announced that the trip to Perma Culture Bending Oak was canceled and rescheduled for Tues.Sept.24 at 2 pm. Please email Karen if you want to go. (kg1023@gmail.com). Karen is waiting for more information to plan a trip to the fig farm nearby. The information was sent out on 9/16.
• Hospitality – Peg Zeleznik, Natalie Fraser, and Rhonda Harris: Peg said food for the Morning with The Masters is next on the committee’s agenda and thanked Natalie for our meeting’s delicious cookies.
• New and Active Pollinator Gardens – Gail Siembida, Marge Greenisen, and Pinky Steffen: Pinky announced that the next grounds cleanup is Thursday, Sept.19 at 9am in Lisbon.
• OSU Extension Grounds – Paula Kohler and Mike Beaudis: Paula thanked all on the grounds committee for their help. When the days cool down the work hours will increase from 2 hours to 3 or 4. After the first frost, a cleanup will be needed. More to come for this committee.
• Plant and Pest Clinic – David Sprague: David said the clinic will continue through October. The clinic volunteers recently had a nice get-together for lunch.
• Recruitment and Retention – Bob Eister and Bob Ferguson: Bob E. said they are focusing on getting bios and photos from this year’s interns. Please send photos to Bob and bio info to Pat Murphy.
• Veterans – Al Leonhart, Mike Beaudis, and Chester Kaschak: Al announced that the Veterans Wreath Project is on schedule and Chester was honored on 9-11.

Administration Report

• MGV Apparel is at the office, please pick it up.
• Nominations for Committee Chairs at the October Meeting – During the October meeting, there will be nominations for chairs of our committees.
• HOC Help Day Wednesday, October 23^rd from 9 am to 7 pm – Kristen will be available all day from 9 am – 7 pm to help anyone who needs HOC help. You can bring your computer or use the Extension office’s iPad.
• If you have any photos from any of the events, please send them to Kristen or Candace so that we can save them.
• Volunteer Opportunities on the back.
  • Kristen told us the library mini-series has started. Kristen asked MGVs to notify her if you are interested in presenting a topic at one of Mahoning County Libraries. This will phase out the Morning with the Masters.
• Don’t trim your trees and shrubs yet! We need greenery for Garden Art Series for the Holiday Containers and Holiday Centerpieces. If you have pine, fox head, cedar, hydrangea heads or any other plants with greenery or branches with berries please wait to trim them for the classes if possible.

Old Business

• Winter Holiday Donation – A vote was taken to pick one of the causes for us to make a Christmas Holiday donation. The causes are listed below. Sleep in Heavenly Peace received the most votes. Kristen will contact them for more specific information about donations. It is optional for MGVs to donate.
  • Children’s Hospital (Books)
  • Sleep in Heavenly Peace (Twin Bedding)
  • MCAP Diaper Drive (Diapers)
  • Pregnancy Help Center (Diapers and Formula)
  • Veterans Haven (Canned or Packaged Meat)
  • Vincent DePaul (Soup Kitchen)
  • The Community Kitchen (Soup Kitchen)

New Business

• Earlier Meetings in the Winter? – The vote was tied on changing the meeting time. Please vote here: https://osu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eez5hT3gAlRtpGe
• State Awards – Marilyn provided information printed information on the State Awards.
• Raising State Dues in 2025 – $15 instead of $10. This is set by the state.
• October 24^th @ 6 pm watch party – There will be a Zoom on the winners of State Awards for the State. It was suggested we could bring a covered dish.
• Paula told us there are plants left from the fair. Please take them home.
• Beth told us dried flowers are needed for her presentation on November 13^th.
• MGVs should look for the State OSU MGV Lunch and Learn series. It starts October 8^th. Please visit: osu.edu/mgvlearn
• Pam announced that after the meeting Kristen will do an informative presentation titled All Eyes Are Needed: Spotted Lanternfly.

Closing

• Adjournment – Next Meeting: October 10^th
• Reminders:
  • Vindy Articles are needed! Still contact Eric.
  • Beth Sanders is looking for donations of pumpkins and dried flowers for her speaking event. If you have any, please contact Beth at 330-369-3385.
  • State Lunch and Learn starts October 8
  • HOC Help Day Wednesday October 23^rd from 9 am to 7 pm

Volunteer Opportunities:

Please See Kristen if you are interested.

• Library Mini – Series for the Fall: Open to any gardening topic. Please let Kristen know if you would be interested to help.
• YMHA Starting Gardens. Please let Kristen know if you would be interested to help.
  • Lowellville Park- W. Wood Street., Lowellville, OH 44436
  • Norton Manor- 1400 Springdale Ave, Youngstown, OH 44505
  • Vasu Manor- 137 Roosevelt Dr., Campbell, Oh 44405
• Birds of Flight Native Pollinator Garden. Please let Kristen know if you would be interested to help.
• South Range School would like help with a school apple orchard. Please let Kristen know if you would be interested to help.
• Boardman Schools would like help learning to graft fruit trees. Please let Kristen know if you would be interested.
• Salem Historical Society- October 2024 or May 2025 Native Appalachia Plants. Contact Haley Shoemaker at 330-967-7249 or 306@osu.edu

Submitted by Marie Belfast and Kathy Costa