Board of Directors Meeting Minutes for October 7, 2008
Present: Sara D’Andrea, Robin Grapkowski, Anthea Higgins, Joy Kalfus, Joi Koenig, Philicia Levinson, Sandy Loprete, Jane Martinez, Kathy Mastriano, Shelly Oliver-Hollis, Myriam Scicolone.
A regular meeting of the Junior League of the Oranges and Short Hills was called to order by President Sandy Loprete at approximately 7:45 p.m., in the Junior League office, 105 Main Street, Millburn, NJ.
Minutes from the August 6, 2008 Board Meeting were reviewed and approved as amended.
Kathy and Sandy met with East Orange Public Library. The staff was very thankful for our 95th Anniversary gift of $40,000.
Gina Cariddi and Sandy met with women from “The League,” an organization that partners volunteer service coaches with schools K-12. The League has a curriculum to teach students about community service. Group may incorporate The Littlest Volunteer as a learning tool.
The Cora Hartshorn Arboretum Gala on Oct. 3 was a success. Event honored three JLOSH members including Dorsey Grant, immediate past president of JLOSH and former Arboretum president.
Sustainers would like a monthly email update rather than the regular weekly update.
Anthea reported that Jake’s Ride was well-attended and supported by several JLOSH volunteers. She also noted that Family Volunteer Day at Solomon Schechter School in WO on Oct. 5 “was amazing.” The event featured a reading of TLV and a community-focused children’s project.
Tie-a-Ribbon DIAD will be held on Saturday, Oct. 11. Volunteers will tie pink ribbons, donated by Susan G. Komen for the Cure, on main streets in Short Hills and Springfield to recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month and to show support for JLOSH member Tracy Beveridge.
Philicia reviewed some changes to the JLOSH budget in light of the current economic climate. Sandy, Philicia, Joi and Elizabeth met with Frank Patrone, our financial advisor at PNC Bank. Mr. Patrone made some prudent adjustments to our investments to alleviate the effects of market decline. Our 2008 investment income is projected to be a loss of $3,000, down from an income of $38,000 in 2007. We will look at our upcoming endowment campaign with a thoughtful eye toward the economy; will think of new ideas for fundraisers tailored to the current market.
Philicia met with our tenant downstairs at 105 Main Street to discuss a proposed rent abatement agreement. Philicia will have an update for the Board at our meeting in November. Tennant understands that paying his rent must be a top priority. Discussed the possibility of a subtenant at a future date should that be necessary.
Our financial audit is complete.
Articles for the New View are due to Jane Martinez on the 20th of each month. Jane will send out a new rate sheet to bring back advertising in NV.
Shelly met with Dusty from East Orange Presbyterian Church, the site of our annual Thanksgiving Basket DIAD on Saturday, Nov. 22. Area residents supported by the church’s food and clothing pantry will be the recipients of this year’s baskets. Volunteers should bring cake mix and icing and/or cornbread mix. The sustainer’s annual mitten tree event will be donated to the EOPC pantry.
The Littlest Volunteer Curriculum in all second grades of the Millburn School District begins the first week in November. There will be opportunities for JLOSH volunteers to visit classrooms to help.