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4/2/2019

March 30 Annual Membership MEETING AND Election

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Annual Meeting
Friends of Lake Norman State Park 
March 30, 2019
Lake Norman State Park Visitor’s Center


President Michael Polzin called the meeting to order at 10:36 a.m.  Board Members in attendance and constituting a quorum were:
Present:  Michael Polzin, Jeff Cooper, Jenni Wyatt, Katie Wurtz, Kathie Kemp, Shannon Johnson, Debbie Page, Vicki Taylor, Ashley Thompson & ex-Officio Advisor Greg Schneider
Absent:   Alison Hemingfield & James Pogue 


Members and non-members recorded their attendance & contact information on an attendance sheet.  We had 17 FLANO members and 9 non-members in attendance.  


Welcome & Introduction to FLANO:  President Michael Polzin


State of the Park:  Park Superintendent Greg Schneider presented a slide show which included the history of LKN State Park from the creation of Lake Norman through the various stages of name changes, park additions and current amenities.  He also reported 2018 accomplishments and current projects planned or in process.  LKN State Park Facts were presented:
  • In 2018, there were 938,744 visitors to LKNSP
  • LKNSP is the 7th most heavily visited park out of 41 NC State Parks and Recreational Areas
  • LKNSP now encompasses 1,941 acres with 3.7 acres added in 2018
  • In 2018, 133 park programs were presented which serviced 1,956 school children & visitors
Current projects include rehabbing and rerouting sections of the Lake Shore Trail which will benefit hikers and increase trail mileage.  Presently, there are only 8 miles of hiking trails.  Future plans include creating trails and linking existing sections of trail.  Bond funds are being used to add sewer and electrical hook-ups to campsites.  7 camping cabins will be constructed.  Trail repairs are in progress and nearing completion on the Itusi mountain-biking trails.


Treasurer & Membership Report: Treasurer Katie Wurtz  
Membership:  As of this meeting, FLANO had 49 members.
Treasury Report:  Membership Donations  $1440, Donation Box Donations $ 913.15, Other/Metal Recycling Funds $359.28, Expenses  $776.53.


Outgoing Board Member Appreciation:  President Michael Polzin extended the Board’s gratitude to outgoing Board members—Jeff Cooper, Alison Hemingfield and James Pogue.  Each was presented with a card and FLANO T-Shirt as a token of our deep appreciation.


Call for Nominations:  After explaining the rotating Board members terms, President Polzin asked for nominations from the floor for Board Members.  Those nominated for election to the Board were: Sheila Riddell, Jim Pogue, Patrick Wurtz, Kathie Kemp and Jenni Wyatt.  All five candidates were elected by unanimous assent.


Election of Vice-President & Secretary:  President Michael Polzin


MOTION by Kathie Kemp to elect Shannon Johnson as Vice-President.  Seconded by Jeff Cooper.  Shannon Johnson elected as Vice-President by unanimous assent.
MOTION by Katie Wurtz to elect Ashely Thompson as Secretary.  Seconded by Shannon Johnson.  Ashley Thompson elected as Secretary by unanimous assent.
Executive Board:  President/Michael Polzin; Vice-President/Shannon Johnson; Secretary/Ashley Thompson; Treasurer/Katie Wurtz
Board Members:  Kathie Kemp, Debbie Page, Jim Pogue, Sheila Riddell, Vicki Taylor, Patrick Wurtz, Jenni Wyatt & Ex-Officio Advisor Greg Schneider
Announcements: President Michael Polzin
Those desiring to join FLANO can sign-up today or online on the website.
FLANO T-Shirts available for $20 each.  
Next Board meeting is Tuesday, May 7, at 6:00 p.m.  
Meeting adjourned at 11:25 a.m.
Minutes submitted by Jenni Wyatt for President Polzin’s approval 3/30/19.

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3/8/2019

MarCH 5, 2019 Board of Directors Minutes

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Board of Directors Meeting
Friends of Lake Norman State Park 
March 5, 2019
Lake Norman State Park Visitor’s Center


President Michael Polzin called the meeting to order at 6:06 p.m.  Those in attendance and constituting a quorum were:
Present:  Michael Polzin, Jeff Cooper, Jenni Wyatt, Katie Wurtz, Kathie Kemp, Shannon Johnson, Debbie Page, Vicki Taylor, & ex-Officio Advisor Greg Schneider
Absent:   Ashley Thompson, Alison Hemingfield, & James Pogue 


Current Business:    
  • Annual FLANO Member’s Business meeting set for Saturday, March 30, at 10:30 a.m. at 10:30 a.m.  This meeting is open to all FLANO members and will include election of Board members.  Park Superintendent Greg Schneider has offered to lead a 9 a.m. Alder Trail hike preceding the annual business meeting.  The meeting will be held in the Visitor Center auditorium with coffee and snacks provided by FLANO.  Debbie Page emailed a promotion flyer. All Board members are asked to post this flyer throughout the community.   Katie Gradert will email FLANO membership with another reminder about the meeting and also will email FLANO members a copy of the annual meeting agenda.  Debbie Page will create the PowerPoint.  Debbie Page will post in area media outlets.  Jenni Wyatt will post on NextDoor.   Park staff will post flyers throughout the park.  Shannon will coordinate refreshments and Ashley Thompson will provide coffee.  Board Members will come at 9:30 a.m. to help with set-up.  Greg Schneider will create a sign in sheet for the meeting.  Shannon Johnson will have FLANO brochures, forms and name tags at the meeting.
  • Nominating Committee Report by Michael Polzin:   Jeff Cooper sold his house and will be moving in April.  He plans to attend the FLANO annual meeting but will no longer be able to serve on the Board.  The Board is very grateful to Jeff for his contributions to FLANO.  He has been an enthusiastic and visionary Board member.  Jeff will be missed!  Alison Hemingfield and James Pogue have asked to rotate off the Board in March.  These two Board positions will be open for election as neither Alison nor James is able to continue to serve on the Board.  Sheila Riddell and Sarah Pogue have both expressed their willingness to serve on the Board and to have their names placed on the ballot at the March annual meeting.   Kathie Kemp, Jenni Wyatt and Jeff Cooper will rotate off the Board so Board member terms can be staggered.  Kathie & Jenni are willing to serve another two-year term and have their names placed on the ballot at the March annual meeting.  A total of five Board positions are up for election.  
  • Annual Meeting Agenda:  Debbie Page will include the agenda in the PowerPoint presentation & Katie will email to FLANO membership prior to the meeting.  Agenda includes:  Call to Order (President Polzin), Introduction to Meeting (President Polzin), State of the Park (Park Superintendent Greg Schneider), Overview of FLANO with mission statement, goals, past accomplishments and future projects (President Polzin), Treasurer and Membership Report (Katie Wurtz), Call for Nominations, Election of Board Members & Election of V.P. and Secretary.
  • Why Should I Care? Show:  Park Superintendent Greg Schneider, and President Michael Polzin will represent FLANO on the March 28, 2019 show which highlights the work/accomplishments of non-profits.  Debbie Page arranged this wonderful opportunity with Melissa Neader to promote FLANO membership and announce our annual meeting on March 30, 2019.
  • Treasurer Report:  Discrepancies in accounting with NCFSP have been resolved.
  • T-Shirt Update:  Quote received from Alison Hemingfield.  Waiting on quote from Ben Baker to come back.  Katie Wurtz said that FLANO may be able to havet-shirt cost funded by a grant from NCFSP by using profits from t-shirt sales to fund a FLANO project.  Katie Wurtz and Kathie Kemp will get final costs and specifications for the T-shirts.  Then, submit this information to the Board for approval if need to use available FLANO funds for initial costs. 
  • Fishing Line Recycling Containers:  Patrick and Katie Wurtz have rescheduled this event to April 6, 2019 from 9 a.m.-12n.
  • April Stargazing Event:  Greg Schneider or Amy Shepherd will get details of event to post in the Troutman Whistle Stop newsletter.  
  • Group Camp Improvement Project:  The application to apply for an REI grant for this project has been approved and this will be submitted by Katie Wurtz.  The grant application form is due by March 15, 2019.  Shannon Johnson volunteered to help Katie write the grant.  The maximum amount allowed by REI is $6000 which will be the amount requested to purchase materials to use in building group camp improvements. 
  • Habitat Enhancement Lands Purchase:  Vicki Taylor attended a workshop and was able to calculate the impact on water quality if FLANO was able to purchase the 14 acres on Hicks Creek. Protecting this property would prevent approximately one ton of sediment every three years.  This information will helpful in making a request for funds to purchase.  
  • Next Meeting is the Annual Meeting—Saturday, March 30th at 10:30 a.m. in the Visitor’s Center.
  • Meeting adjourned at 7:18 p.m.
  • Minutes submitted to President Polzin for approval on 3/8/2019.

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3/6/2019

Fishing LINE RECYCLING Containers

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Picture







We are building these fishing line containers for several locations around the park. You, your family, or group can get involved with protecting our wildlife by building for your park or fishing hole! Thanks to FLANO member for bringing this project to the group!


Program:
Year of the Fish, Fishing Line Recycling
Cost Estimate: $64

Purpose
Begin and maintain a Monofilament Recycling Program
 
Background
Monofilament poses a huge danger to marine and human life when left in the environment.  Monofilament fishing line can injure swimmers and boaters, foul boat propellers, entangle and poison wildlife, and more. Also, monofilament doesn’t biodegrade – so it last in the environment for up to 600 years. Because monofilament line is designed to be almost invisible in the water, animals will often swim into it and become entangled, or accidentally swallow it. When an animal becomes entangled, the line cuts through the animal’s skin easily. For many animals, this can mean losing a limb, fin, or a lot of blood. These wounds can also easily contract infections such as gangrene, which can cause them to die rather quickly. If an animal swallows fishing line, the animal may starve to death because it feels full, but isn’t actually getting any nutrients. Not to mention – all of this causes the animals to suffer greatly. 
Taken from: (http://nmlc.org/2011/06/monofilament-recycling-program-underway/)

Goals
  1. Heighten awareness about the negative impacts that fishing line debris has on human welfare, marine life, and water quality.
  2. Decrease the amount of fishing line entering and remaining in the natural environment.
  3. Increase the amount of fishing line being recycled.

Methods
  1. Determine optimal location for PVC collector containers.
  2. Monofilament Recycling Tube Construction
  3. Maintenance

Determine optimal location for PVC collector containers.
  • Spillway at Park Lake, Fishing Peer, and Dock on Park Lake 

Monofilament Recycling Tube Construction
Instructions taken from Fly Fishing International (https://flyfishersinternational.org/Conservation/ProjectsPrograms/MonofilamentRecyclingProject/tabid/283/Default.aspx)

Assembly Instructions
Materials list
  • 4”x30” abs pipe
  • 4” abs 90 degree elbow
  • 4”abs cleanout
  • 4”abs plug(with ½” hole drilled in bottom)
  • 2- Sammy screws 3/8” bolt size for wood or steel
  • 2- 3/8”x 1” hex head bolts
  • 2- 3/8” flat washers
  • abs glue
  • recycling decal, FFF logo decal, club or sponsor decal

Tool list         
  • Hacksaw to cut abs pipe
  • Drill motor with ½ inch drill bit
 
How to Assemble           
  1. Cut abs pipe into 30 inch or 24 inch sections from 10 foot piece.
  2. Glue 90 elbow to one end of pipe, this becomes the top.
  3. Glue cleanout to opposite end, this becomes the bottom
  4. Drill ½ inch hole in center of plug; this is to let water out (use ½ inch twist or spade drill).
  5. Accurately drill a ½ inch hole through the back side of the 90 elbow and ½” hole through the smooth section off the cleanout and the pipe. Be careful to keep the holes in line with the centerline of the pipe.

In the Field
Tools List:
  • Cordless drill motor with Sammy installation tool
  • 24 inch level
  • Tape Measure
  • Pencil or marker
  • 9/16 inch wrench short in length

How to install
  1. Measure the distance of holes drilled in back of tube and carefully transfer to existing post, making sure marks are in line and plumb.
  2. Install Sammy’s with cordless drill and Sammy tool or socket wrench.
  3. Screw 3/8 inch bolt into Sammy through bottom hole first. This helps to support the tube before installing the top screw
  4. Screw the top bolt into the top Sammy through the inside of the tube. This can be a little difficult.
  5. Apply the decals; take a photo and move on to the next tube!

Maintenance
Mail Fishing Line Yearly to: Pure Fishing America (Berkley) accepts monofilament for recycling. Contact Berkley at 1-800-BERKLEY or 1900 18th Street, Spirit Lake, IA 51360-1041.





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2/6/2019

February 5 Meeting Minutes

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Board of Directors Meeting
Friends of Lake Norman State Park 
February 5, 2019
Lake Norman State Park Visitor’s Center




Vice-President Jeff Cooper called the meeting to order at 6:06 p.m.  Those in attendance and constituting a quorum were:
Present:  Jeff Cooper, Jenni Wyatt, Kathie Kemp, Debbie Page, Vicki Taylor, Ashley Thompson & ex-Officio Advisor Greg Schneider
Absent:    Michael Polzin, Katie Wurtz, Alison Hemingfield, Shannon Johnson & James Pogue 


Current Business:    


  • Preparations for the Annual FLANO Member’s Business meeting set for Saturday, March 30, at 10:30 a.m.  This meeting is open to all FLANO members and will include election of Board members.  A 9 a.m. ranger-led Alder Trail hike will be offered preceding the annual business meeting.  The meeting will be held in the Visitor Center auditorium with coffee and snacks provided by FLANO.  Ashley Thompson will provide coffee.  Debbie Page designed a promotion flyer for the event.  This flyer will be emailed to all Board members to post throughout the community.  Greg Schneider volunteered to post the flyer throughout the park.  Debbie Page will create a press release and bring to the March 5th meeting.  Debbie will post in media outlets after  March 5th Board meeting.  Jenni Wyatt will post it on NextDoor.  At the March 5th Board meeting, we will create an agenda for the annual meeting.  Greg Schneider volunteered to do a state of the park update.  Michael Polzin will also give an overview of FLANO’s purposes, goals and achievements to date.  Debbie Page volunteered to put together a PowerPoint presentation with photos taken at our past FLANO events and requested other Board members to email her their FLANO event photos so these could be included.  Michael may want to use this PowerPoint presentation during his FLANO overview or it could be playing in the background during the meeting.  Katie Wurtz will email FLANO membership at least 3 weeks prior to the meeting as, according to our By-laws, this meeting needs to be announced to membership 20 days in advance.
Action Items:  Ashley Thompson will provide coffee for the annual meeting.  Shannon Johnson volunteered by email to help with refreshments.  At our March 5th meeting, Shannon can inventory snacks/water in closet and determine if anything else needs to be purchased for refreshments.  Board Members will be emailed flyer and will post in public spaces to promote event.  Debbie Page will write press release and send to media after March 5th meeting.  Jenni Wyatt will post on NextDoor.  Greg Schneider will post flyers throughout park.  Board Members will email any photos they have taken at past FLANO events to Debbie Page for her to use in creating a PowerPoint for the annual meeting.  Katie Wurtz will email FLANO membership 3 weeks prior to annual meeting date.
  • Nominating Committee Report by Michael Polzin: Jeff Cooper and Jenni Wyatt volunteered to serve on the nominating committee.  Alison Hemingfield and James Pogue have asked to rotate off the Board in March.  These two Board positions will be open for election as neither Alison nor James is able to continue to serve on the Board.  Sheila Riddell and Sarah Pogue have both expressed their willingness to serve on the Board and to have their names placed on the ballot at the March annual meeting.   Kathie Kemp, Jenni Wyatt and Jeff Cooper will rotate off Board so Board member terms can be staggered.  Kathie, Jenni & Jeff (if he is not moving) are willing to serve another two-year term and have their names placed on the ballot at the March annual meeting.  If not needed to fill a seat on the Board, Jenni & Jeff offered to rotate off the Board and serve on a committee.  Update on contact with Melissa Neador (Debbie Page).  
  • Winter/Spring FLANO Events: 
    • Cleanup Day scheduled for Dance Hall or another area on Saturday, February 23, 9-12n.  Volunteers will gather a load to take to recycling center for cash redemption.   Volunteers meet at Visitor’s Center.  Action Item:  Debbie Page will promote on FLANO website and Facebook.  Jenni Wyatt will post on NextDoor.   
    • Update on Stargazing Events: Amy Shepherd has several stargazing events that she would like to schedule next year in conjunction with the Piedmont Amateur Astronomy Club.  She is planning a Star Party on April 12th with a rain date on April 13th.  FLANO members will be needed to man the stations and to recruit new members at the FLANO tent.  Greg Schneider will obtain details & flyer from Amy.      
    • Fishing Line Recycling Containers & Cost of Project:  Katie and Patrick Wurtz volunteered to coordinate this project for FLANO.  March 23rd FLANO members will build and then install the containers at the boat launch, fishing dock & spillway locations.  Action Item:  Katie Wurtz will bring cost of project to March 5 Board meeting and purchase supplies needed for this.  
  • Update on Habitat Enhancement Program Application:  The agency will not accept applications until May 2019.  Action Item:  Vicki Taylor and Greg Schneider will begin working on the application to have it ready for submission in May.  
  • New Business
    • Melissa Neador recently started a website show that highlights non-profits—the work that they do and how to get involved with the non-profit.  Action Item:  Debbie Page will contact Melissa regarding the possibility of featuring FLANO in a broadcast.  This will also be a great opportunity to communicate with Melissa about FLANO and see if she would have an interest in joining or serving.
    • Alison Hemingfield offered to give us a quote on t-shirts at her cost.  Action Item:  Kathie Kemp will contact Katie Wurtz to see if funds were available from NCFSP for an initial purchase of t-shirts.  Kathie will also contact Alison Hemingfield to give her the information she needs to get us a quote on the t-shirts to present to the Board.  
    • Debbie Page informed the Board that we now have 166 followers on the FLANO Facebook page.


Next Board Meeting is Tuesday, March 5th at 6:00 p.m.


Meeting adjourned at 7:05 p.m.


Minutes submitted to Vice-President, Jeff Cooper, for approval on 2/5/19.

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1/12/2019

January 8 Meeting Minutes

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Board of Directors Meeting
Friends of Lake Norman State Park 
January 8, 2019
Lake Norman State Park Visitor’s Center


President Michael Polzin called the meeting to order at 6:10 p.m.  Those in attendance and constituting a quorum were:
Present: Michael Polzin, Jeff Cooper, Katie Gradert, Jenni Wyatt, Shannon Johnson, Debbie Page, Vicki Taylor, Ashley Thompson & ex-Officio Advisor Greg Schneider
Absent: Alison Hemingfield, Kathie Kemp & James Pogue
Visitors: Patrick Wurtz


Current Business:
    
  • Annual Business Meeting:  By acclamation, the date for the Annual FLANO Member’s Business meeting is set for Saturday, March 30, at 10:30 a.m.  This meeting is open to all FLANO members and will include election of Board members.  Park Superintendent Greg Schneider offered to lead a 9 a.m. Alder Trail hike preceding the annual business meeting.  The meeting will be held in the Visitor Center auditorium with coffee and snacks provided by FLANO.  
    • Action Items:  Debbie Page will create a flyer announcing the meeting and hike which she will email to Board members.  Board members will print off copies of the flyer to distribute in the community to promote the meeting.  Ashley Thompson will check to see if Starbucks will donate coffee for the meeting.  Debbie Page will post event on website and on Facebook.  Katie Gradert will email announcement of meeting to FLANO members at least 30 days prior to the meeting.
  • Board Member Terms:  Staggered terms were discussed for the officers/board members to prevent everyone from rotating off the Board at the same time.  Jenni Wyatt will rotate off the Board as secretary.  Jeff Cooper will rotate off the Board as vice-president.  The offices of secretary and vice-president will be up for election.  Jenni and Jeff can ask for their names to be included in the election for a two-year Board member position.   Alison Hemingfield and James Pogue will be contacted to see if either wishes to remain on the Board.  James Pogue has a new job and is moving to Charlotte so this may impact his availability to serve as a Board member.  After the meeting, Jenni Wyatt wrote out the remaining Board member names on slips of paper.  President Michael Polzin drew one to determine which other Board member would rotate off this term.  Kathie Kemp’s name was drawn.   Kathie Kemp will be encouraged to put forth her name for election as a two-year term Board member.  Her contributions to FLANO have been greatly appreciated and she is a highly valued member of the Board.
  • Nominating Committee:  According to FLANO By-Laws, President Michael Polzin will create a nominating committee.  Michael asked for volunteers to serve on this committee.  Jeff Cooper volunteered to serve on this committee.
    • Action Item:  Please let President Michael Polzin know of your desire and availability to serve on the nominating committee.
  • Treasurer’s Report
    • Katie Wurtz distributed the End-of-year Financial Report.  See attached file.
    • Katie Wurtz gave the End-of-year volunteer and event report.  See attached file.
    • Katie Wurtz distributed membership update report. FLANO now has 48 members.   See attached file.
  • Board Meeting Dates:  The Board will meet on Tuesday, February 5, and Tuesday, March 5, at 6:00 p.m.
  • Winter/Spring FLANO Events: 
    • Clean-up Day scheduled for Dance Hall or another area on Saturday, February 23, 9-12n.  Volunteers will gather a load to take to recycling center for cash redemption.   Volunteers meet at Visitor’s Center.  
    • Stargazing Events:  Amy Shepherd has several stargazing events that she would like to schedule next year in conjunction with the Piedmont Amateur Astronomy Club.  She is planning a Star Party on April 12th with a rain date on April 13th.  FLANO members will be needed to man the stations and to recruit new members at the FLANO tent. 
      • Action Items:  Any Board member with connections to get a free or discounted bounce house for the event, please contact Amy Shepherd.  Greg Schneider will get details and flyer for this event from Amy.    
    • Fishing Line Recycling Containers:  Katie and Patrick Wurtz volunteered to coordinate this project for FLANO.  March 23rd FLANO members will build and then install the containers at the boat launch, fishing dock & spillway locations.  
      • Action Items:  Katie Wurtz will bring material cost for this project to February Board meeting and, after Board approval, purchase the supplies.
  • Phillips Tract Purchase & Clean Up:  Greg Schneider reported on the purchase of the Phillips Tract.  The park has closed on the Phillips Tract, adding 3.7 additional acres along Norwood Creek to the park which will help protect this watershed.  The tract has part of a small Piedmont Levee Forest on it (the only example of that forest type in LANO) and also has seven hemlocks on the slopes above the creek.  (There are only two other hemlocks known in the rest of LANO.) The tract has lots of debris and trash on it.  Depending on what is needed and done on the February 23rd Clean-Up Day at the Dance Hall property, volunteers may also be assigned to this tract for clean-up on that day.  
  • Invasive eradication:  Greg Schneider expressed the need for eradication of invasive plants in the park including kudzu and privet.  This is something that could involve physical removal and chemical removal.  This might be a good summer project to enlist volunteer help.  The replanting of native species could also be labor intensive and another opportunity for volunteer help.  
  • Habitat Enhancement Program:  Vicki Taylor described her involvement with the Duke Energy Shoreline Management Workgroup.  Duke charges fees for dock permits.  These fees support the Habitat Enhancement Program which was a negotiated item to protect water quality and shoreline in the FERC relicensing process with Duke. The funds that have been collected for the Habitat Enhancement Program currently exceed what has been requested.  Recent awards were between $13,000 to $100,000.  They accept applications between May 1 and July 31 each year.  Vicki asked the Board for project suggestions to apply for this grant money. 
    • Greg Schneider proposed two projects.  The first would be to purchase native species to replace the invasive plants that are eradicated.  These native plants can be very expensive.  Greg also proposed the purchase of a tract of land adjacent to Hicks Creek.  He brought a map printout to show the Board.  This 14.25-acre tract could be divided at a small creek with the park purchasing the majority of the property but leaving a large developable lot off Old Spring Lane or the park could purchase all of it.  The property includes undisturbed Messic Mixed Hardwood Forest and Dry Messic Oak-Hickory Forest. This property has been identified for water quality protection.   It might also be possible to enlist another non-profit might to partner in purchasing this land.  The application for these projects could be submitted by FLANO or the park.  
      • ACTION ITEMS:  Greg Schneider and Vicki Taylor will pursue the application process and the needed documentation.  They will identify possible partnerships for this project.  They will determine whether the application should be submitted by FLANO or the park.
  • Credit Card Payments:  Katie Wurtz reported that the best way to handle this would be to solicit credit card payments on a laptop or tablet at FLANO events.
  • BioBlitz Update:  More than 300 additional species were identified at BioBlitz.  Prior to this around 600 species had been documented.
New Business
  • Katie Wurtz suggested that the barn wood that is being collected from demolished buildings be sold as a fund raiser.
  • Jeff Cooper reported that Friends of the Mooresville Library has donated about hundred books to our Little Library.  Debbie Page will post this on our donor appreciation web page.  
  • Katie Wurtz will check with NCFSP to see if they will loan us funds so we can order t-shirts that we could sell at our March business meeting.  
Next Board Meeting is Tuesday, February 5, 2018 at 6:00 p.m.
Meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m.
Minutes submitted for approval by President Michael Polzin on 1/11/2018.


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11/20/2018

November Board of Directors Minutes

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Board of Directors Meeting
Friends of Lake Norman State Park 
November 6, 2018
Lake Norman State Park Visitor’s Center


Vice President Jeff Cooper called the meeting to order at 6:06 p.m.  Those in attendance and constituting a quorum were:
Present:   Jeff Cooper, Jenni Wyatt, Vicki Taylor, Debbie Page, Ashley Thompson & ex-Officio Advisor Greg Schneider
Absent:   Katie Gradert, Alison Hemingfield, Shannon Johnson, James Pogue, Michael Polzin & Kathie Kemp
Visitors: Amy Shepherd, Patrick Wurtz


Current Business:
  • Committee recruitment update: Jeff Cooper stated to date no one has volunteered in response to the committee letter that was sent to FLANO membership.  However, he noted that about 10 people had indicated on their membership forms that they were interested in membership & sponsorship.  Board consensus was that we should invite these and other FLANO members to a meeting in January with the opportunity to hear about and join one of these committees.


  • September 30, 2018 Get Fit Feedback: Debbie Page reported that 50 plus families attended the event.  Next time will plan to have registration on both ends.  Will also try to calendar a date earlier in the year so sponsors can be notified and advance planning can be done. FLANO tent had activity.  Brochures given out and new members signed up.  


  • September 29, 2018 NLD Trail Building Feedback: Amy Shepherd reported that there were 76 volunteers present for trash pick-up and Bridge trail rehab.  The dilapidated portions of the boardwalk were removed, disposed off-site and boardwalk repaired.  FLANO tent had activity.  Brochures given out and new members signed up.  


  • October 16, 2018 History Presentation Feedback: Greg Schneider reported that we had 39 participants at the talk even though the weather was dismal.  We spent about $60 on the popcorn machine rental, popcorn fixings and popcorn bags.  Jenni donated cups/napkins and Michael Polzin donated the hot apple cider.  Served the snacks/water bottles left from Bio-Blitz & Get-Fit event.  Katie got a donation of Starbucks coffee.   FLANO brochures given out and new members signed up.  


  • Membership Update submitted by Katie Gradert: 10 new members in September & 5 new members in October


  • FLANO volunteers to participate in REI event on 11/10/18 from 9-12n in the shoreline cleanup with REI: Patrick Wurtz presenting in Katie’s absence—meet at Visitor’s Center—Great time to do this as lake is down.


  • FLANO volunteers to participate with REI and Tarheel Trail Blazers in Mountain Bike Trail maintenance on 11/11/18 from 9-12n at Visitor’s Center: Patrick Wurtz presenting in Katie’s absence.


  • Fishing Line Program: Patrick Wurtz volunteered to dispose of all fishing line/lures collected in the appropriate disposal containers if this program is instituted at the park.  This will be an event/activity to be considered and calendared in the spring.


  • FLANO membership by credit card payments with mobile device at events:  Jenni Wyatt emailed David Pearson and Jim Richardson requesting the ability to take PayPal credit card payments on a mobile device to make joining FLANO more convenient at events when most people do not have cash or a checkbook to pay the membership fee.


  • Little Library Update: Greg Schneider reported that this library is located in the campground next to the display case in front of the wash house.  Board members may drop books at the Visitor Center for the library.  Katie has paid the fee for the library to be registered.


  • Next Board Meeting:  The December 4, 2018 FLANO Board meeting was cancelled.  Our next Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 8, 2018 at 6:00 p.m.  At this meeting, we will schedule Board meetings and annual membership meeting through April 2019 and also plan winter/spring events and activities. 




New Business:


  • Dance Hall Clean Up Day:  Greg Schneider requested another volunteer work day to clean up the dance hall area and hopefully gather a load to take to the recycling center for cash redemption.  Volunteers will meet on Saturday, February 23rd at the Visitor’s Center.  Work day is scheduled from 9 a.m.-12n.  
  • Stargazing Events:  Amy Shepherd has several stargazing events that she would like to schedule next year in conjunction with the Piedmont Amateur Astronomy Club.  She is planning a Star Party on April 12th with a rain date on April 13th.  She will need help manning the stations.  These events will be great opportunities to recruit members for FLANO.  Any Board member who has connections to get a discounted or free bounce house for the April 12th event, please contact Amy Shepherd.​
Next Board Meeting is Tuesday, January 8, 2018 at 6:00 p.m.  


Meeting adjourned at 7:00 p.m.
Minutes submitted for approval by Vice President Jeff Cooper on 11/7/18.

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10/22/2018

Lake Norman State Park Adds little free library

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LNSP Maintenance Supervisor Greg Johnson constructed a great little lending library from barn wood and tin that park staff salvaged from a couple structures awaiting demolition. 
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The library has been set up in the campground and registered with Little Free Lending Library, https://littlefreelibrary.org/. Friends of Lake Norman State Park paid the $40.00 fee to register the library and is stocking it with books for visitors to LNSP to enjoy!

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10/4/2018

StonestreeT To Give Talk on Lake Norman history on October 16 at 6:30 p.m.

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Stonestreet to give talk on Lake Norman area history at Lake Norman State Park

The Friends of Lake Norman State Park (FLANO) is hosting a special history presentation by the fireplace at the Lake Norman State Park Community Building (204 Group Camp Lane) on Tuesday, October 16 at 6:30 p.m. 

Well-known educator, columnist and author O.C. Stonestreet will present highlights of the fascinating history of Lake Norman, LNSP and Iredell County. 

The event will also feature a brief park introduction by Park Superintendent Greg Schneider and an introduction to FLANO, formed this past April, by President Michael Polzin.

 At this free event, Stonestreet will have a book signing opportunity for his works, including They Called Iredell County Home: Interesting People Who Were Born or Lived in Iredell County, N.C. and Tales from Old Iredell County.  Enjoy popcorn and hot cider by the fire while learning more about our wonderful community! 

ABOUT FLANO

The Friends of Lake Norman State Park association, created in April of 2018, is a nonprofit organization operating as a Chapter of the Friends of State Parks, Inc. incorporated under North Carolina state law with IRS 501(c)(3) status and tax ID 58-1634155.

The purpose of the association is to support Lake Norman State Park including park lands and trails; develop and promote public awareness; provide support and resources for the maintenance of programs, facilities and recreation; advocate for ecological conservation and preservation; and address environmental issues.   These purposes are exclusively nonprofit, charitable, and educational.

Membership is open to any individual, group, or corporation who supports the purposes of the association.

Website: https://www.friendsoflakenormanstatepark.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FriendsofLakeNormanStatePark/

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10/1/2018

Membership NEWSLETTER

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​Friends of Lake Norman State Park Membership Update


Greetings everyone.  Hope you all have been enjoying the summer and have made it out to Lake Norman State Park to take advantage of this wonderful community asset!  I’m Michael Polzin and I am the President of the Board of the Friends of Lake Norman State Park (FLANO).  Since our initial meeting back in March, a great deal has happened and I wanted to update you on all of our progress.  Key accomplishments to date include:
· Our group submitted for and was approved by the North Carolina Friends of State Parks as a fully sanctioned FSP Chapter along with approximately 35 other Friends groups throughout the state.
· We have set up various financial management tools including currency and online payment systems, bank accounts, and a post office box to manage membership fees and donations in support of Park improvements.
· We have developed a great logo (see attached) thanks to the great efforts of one of our Board members – Kathie Kemp.
· We have a beautiful full color brochure about the group thanks to the combined efforts of Kathie Kemp and Debbie Page who designed the brochure and Alison Hemingfield whose company had several thousand printed for us for free
· We have developed and launched an excellent web page thanks to Debbie Page.  If you haven’t already, check it out at www.friendsoflakenormanstatepark.org
· We have participated in several community events such as a Bike-a-thon at the park, Troutman’s Party in the Park, and an event with REI.
· We now have 22 paid members and have raised almost $1000 to be used for Park improvements.
Not bad for just 5 months and this is only the beginning.  The first big project we are going to help support is a complete renovation of the Group Campground.  It’s a high priority project for the Park Rangers and it will bring in more visitors to the park.  We are also considering new initiatives on trail development/maintenance as well as a recycling program to collect discarded fishing line that can harm the wildlife in the Park.
 
At this time we are looking to continue to expand our membership and make ourselves better known to residents of the area and to local businesses.   To that end, we have recently established two committees. The first is the Out Reach committee.  This committee will develop programs and identify local events that we can use to get out the word about the park and our group.  For example, one event that we recently supported was the Bio-Blitz the Park held this past weekend.  This event brought in local wildlife and plant experts so that the Rangers could better catalogue all the species residing in the Park.  It was a great way to get out and explore the park!
 
The second committee is the Sponsorship committee.  This committee will focus on getting in contact with local business (big and small) with the aim of getting those businesses to donate money and/or equipment, or allow us to partner with them on events.   We have had some great support already thanks to the good people at REI and we know that many other businesses would be interested in getting involved as well.
 
We are looking to get some additional people to get involved with these committees and help take our group to the next level.  We aren’t asking for a huge time commitment as we all have busy enough lives already, just a few hours here and there to attend committee meetings and participate in executing some of the events/programs that you would be helping to develop.  If you would be interested in getting involved, please let us know which committee you would like to join.  If you prefer not to be on a committee but are interested in volunteering to help in other ways, please let us know that as well.
 
We are very excited about what this group has achieved thus far and are looking forward to making continuing contributions to our favorite local attraction - Lake Norman State Park.
 
Thanks to you all for your interest and I hope to hear from many of you soon.
 
Sincerely,  
 
Michael Polzin, President    

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9/25/2018

SEptember Board of Directors Minutes

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​Board of Directors Meeting
Friends of Lake Norman State Park 
September 25, 2018
Lake Norman State Park Visitor’s Center

President Michael Polzin called the meeting to order at 6:11 p.m.  Those in attendance and constituting a quorum were:
Present:  Michael Polzin, Jeff Cooper, Katie Gradert, Jenni Wyatt, Kathie Kemp, Debbie Page, Ashley Thompson & ex-Officio Advisor Greg Schneider
Absent:   Alison Hemingfield, Shannon Johnson, James Pogue & Vicki Taylor
Visitor:  O.C. Stonestreet

Current Business:

Introduction of new Board Member:  President Michael Polzin welcomed Ashley Thompson to the Board and introduced her to the other Board members.  Ashley was appointed by the Executive Committee to fulfill the term of Jeff Pelchat who resigned from the FLANO Board on 8/23/2018.  Ashley Thompson confirmed her willingness to serve on the Communications/Outreach committee.

History Presentation scheduled for Tuesday, October 16th from 6:30-8:00 p.m. at the Community Building:  Historian, author & columnist O.C. Stonestreet was introduced to the Board as our speaker for this event.  He brought samples of his columns and one of his books for the Board to review.  He briefly discussed the proposed content of his presentation.  O.C. plans to talk for 40 minutes and then open the floor for discussion.  A schedule for the evening was planned.  Greg Schneider will open with a welcome and brief overview of park amenities.  Michael Polzin will give an overview of FLANO goals/achievements to date and then issue an invitation for those present to join FLANO.  Greg Schneider will present the Heroism Award to Rich Goad.  O.C. will give a 40-minute talk and PowerPoint presentation followed by a 20-minute question/answer period.  O.C. will be provided with a table for book signing and sales.  Refreshments will be served before and after the event. 
ACTION ITEMS:  Michael Polzin volunteered to provide the spiced cider.  Katie Gradert will ask for decaf Starbuck coffee donation and find a rental popcorn machine.  Left-over water/snacks from Bio-Blitz will be used.  Katie Gradert will obtain equipment needed for the PowerPoint presentation.  Michael Polzin, Katie Gradert, Jenni Wyatt & Jerry Wyatt will help with set up of room, FLANO table and refreshments.  Park Staff will have a fire in fireplace that evening or instruct FLANO how to do this. Debbie Page, Kathie Kemp & Ashley Thompson will man the FLANO table before and after the event.  Katie Gradert and Ashley Thompson, Jenni Wyatt & Jerry Wyatt will clean up after event.  Debbie Page will write a press release and publish it in area media outlets. Debbie Page will design a flyer for the event.  Jeff Cooper offered to have a flyer printed to distribute in the area.  Board members unable to attend tonight’s meeting are urged to help promote and participate in this FLANO outreach event.  

NLD Trail Building Event on Saturday, September 29, 9 a.m.-12n
ACTION ITEMS:  Jeff Cooper will set up the FLANO tent and man it from 8:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m.  Jerry & Jenni Wyatt will man the tent from 10 a.m.-12n.

Get Fit, Sunday, September 30, 2-4 p.m.
ACTION ITEMS:  Debbie Page will be there early to set-up with Get Fit sponsors.  Ashley Thompson and Jenni Wyatt will man the FLANO tent.  Jerry Wyatt and the Polzin family will lead Alder Trail hikes.  

Back-Country Clean-up Day & Bio-Blitz  Greg Schneider reported on the success of both events.  Eleven volunteers and three park staff participated in Back-Country Clean-up Day.  Over 500 pounds of trash and electrical wire were removed from the park.  $337.06 in funds were donated to FLANO from the recycled metal proceeds.  76 volunteers participated in Bio-Blitz.  All the numbers of the species collected have yet to be entered in the database.  It appears that there will be around 500 more species identified and added to the species list at Lake Norman State Park.  Greg expressed his appreciation to FLANO for helping with the event and preparing/serving meals to the volunteers.  Special thanks were extended to Shannon Johnson and Debbie Page who planned meals, shopped for groceries, donated and prepared food, and provided serving dishes, etc.  They far exceeded the park’s expectations and served with excellence.  A very special thanks to both their husbands too!

Treasurer’s Report:  Katie Gradert distributed copies of the quarterly report to Board members.  This also included the number of hours worked  at FLANO volunteer and outreach events.

Committees Email Letter Update:  Michael Polzin and Jeff Cooper reported that the letter is ready for distribution.
ACTION ITEM:  Katie Gradert will email this letter to FLANO members.

Joy Shuck personally donated an event tent to FLANO
ACTION ITEM:  All Board members, if you haven’t already done so, please email and thank Joy Shuck for her generosity.

Group Camp Update:  Katie Gradert submitted grant proposal to Joy Shuck at REI.  Joy responded that, if approved, the grant funds would not be available until May 2019.  Greg Schneider was willing to wait until funds are available.   
ACTION ITEM:  Katie will communicate to Joy Shuck that this time frame is acceptable and will continue to pursue REI grant funding.   

T-Shirt Update:  Katie Gradert & Kathie Kemp reported that cost of t-shirts greater than anticipated and do not want to deplete FLANO reserves.  Several options were discussed including pre-ordering t-shirts, having individuals front the cost of the shirts or asking NCFSP to front the cost.
ACTION ITEM:  Katie Gradert will contact NCFSP to see if they will advance FLANO the funds to purchase t-shirts and then pay back NCFSP when t-shirts are sold.  
Next Board Meeting is October 9, 2018 at 6:00 p.m.  

Meeting adjourned at 7:21 p.m.
Minutes submitted for approval by President Michael Polzin on 9/25/18.


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