Owings Mills High School PTSA Minutes

Executive Board Meeting Minutes

OMHS PTSA Minutes for May 6, 2009 (unapproved)

CALL TO ORDER: Gary Peisach, President, called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. in the Owings Mills High School library.

ROLL CALL: In attendance were Gary Peisach, Barbara Korenblit, Symone Sutton, Rachel Raphael, Sulena Long, Francine Selzer, Roberta Siskind, Cathleen Spadea, Patricia Moy, Tiyonda Dedmon, Helen Glazer Marcus, Barbara Deitch, Jane Silver, Lori O’Donnell, Joe O’Donnell, Faith Gershowitz, Nancy Narod, and Celeste Flood.

MINUTES (Rachel Raphael): minutes from 4/1/09 were approved.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT (Gary Peisach): At the General PTSA meeting last night (5/5/09), next year’s slate of officers was approved, bylaws (unchanged) were approved, and Gary summarized the PTSA’s finances (budget and plans).

TREASURER'S REPORT (Symone Sutton): No additional income this year. We switched insurance companies so will pay a lower premium, not due until next year. Symone would like to teach an incoming Freshman parent how to operate the treasury.

PRINCIPAL'S REPORT (Cathleen Spadea for Diane Garbarino):

OMHS in partnership with Kaplan will hold an SAT practice session Saturday May 16 from 8-12 for $5 per student.
This week is AP exams and Senior exams. Last day for seniors is 5/15. HSA’s are week of May 18.
MD State Athletic Association awarded Josh Davey for being a 12 season athlete with a 3.9 or better GPA.
Ross Gothelf won the Minds in Motion Award.
There are teacher openings in Math and English due to a retirement and a transfer.
Mr. Murray is in the hospital recovering from surgery.
Ms. Glen returned from maternity leave.
Evacuation drills/ severe weather drills took place this week.

STUDENT REPORTS
Robotics Club (Vlad Busko, President of Robotics Club): Won first place in Regionals and just returned from World Championships in Atlanta! They needed to raise $5K entry fee, and successfully raised $20K with school and community helping contribute. Lockheed-Martin may represent the club with funding and computers.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

HEALTH AND WELFARE (Cathleen Spadea):

Teachers are enjoying their Teacher Appreciation themed activities all week, especially the Parisian Luncheon held today. Secretaries/ Admin. enjoyed their luncheon last month.
New SADD officers were elected; Sloane Soffer is President next year.
NHS letters are soon going out with acceptance information.
Senior information went out.
We are very proud of our Robotics team.
Music Department concerts are this week. Choral Concert Tues.; Band/ Orchestra Concert Thurs 5/7.
NAHS Spring Induction and Art Auction Tues 5/12 6:30 PM, $25.

SCHOOL ACTIVITIES REPORTS

TEACHER APPRECIATION: Gary thanked Barbara Deitch and Jane Silver for their great work planning today’s Teacher Luncheon, and week long activities. Barbara thanked us for contributing and baking. New chairs are needed next year.

PROJECT SAFE (Faith Gershowitz): Thanked the PTSA for their $600 donation. Free after Prom party, open to ALL Seniors, plans to have bowling, DJ, food, Black Jack, Roulette, Pool tables, airbrush tattoos, “Make your own MTV Video”, etc, and a $500 cash Grand Prize.

CLASS LIAISONS: Nancy Narod and Roberta Siskind, Senior Class, thank everyone for their help; prom is set for Tremont Grand. Symone Sutton reported that the Junior class has $7000, and is considering a Friday night senior prom next year to save money. Roberta Siskind reported that the Freshman class had a successful car wash, raising around $400, and are selling sweats and tees.

RELAY FOR LIFE (Jane Silver and Barbara Deitch): Dedicated to memory of Caron Glassman this year; to be held Saturday May 30 (during Senior Week), at Stevenson University. New chairmen are needed for next year.

ARTS BOOSTERS (Barbara Korenblit): Officers have been elected for next year: Stanley Nachimson for President, Angela Hopkins for VP, Linda Nachimson for Treasurer, and Jodi Grossman for Secretary.

SPORTS BOOSTERS (Joe O’Donnell): JV Lacrosse enjoyed a 9&1 season. V Baseball is in playoffs. Softball has been rained out. Tennis booked indoor courts to play (finals) in Greenspring.

NEW BUSINESS (Gary Peisach):

PTSA to honor Caron Glassman with a Senior Scholarship Award in her name.
Outstanding Senior Parent Volunteer Award to be presented at June meeting, with a plaque in the school office.
Bobby Zirkin’s office holds a Rosewood Property Information Meeting 5/18.
Brainstorm ideas for next year, including membership drive/ coffeehouse/ outreach to incoming Freshman parents, sponsorship for PTA envelopes, a phone-a-thon, etc.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: See agenda sheet for a list of activities for May.

Meeting adjourned at approximately 8:40 PM. Next meeting will be held Wednesday, June 3, 2009 at 7:15 PM in the OMHS library, and will include a potluck dinner and installation of officers.

Respectfully submitted by Rachel A. Raphael, Recording Secretary.

OMHS PTSA Minutes for April 1, 2009 (approved)

CALL TO ORDER: Gary Peisach, President, called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m. in the Owings Mills High School library.

ROLL CALL: In attendance were Gary Peisach, Diane Garbarino, Barbara Korenblit, Symone Sutton, David Sutton, Rachel Raphael, Sulena Long, Francine Selzer, Cathleen Spadea, Patricia Moy, Diane Lahn, Helen Glazer Marcus, Barbara Deitch, Jane Silver, and Joe O’Donnell.

MINUTES (Rachel Raphael): minutes from 3/4/09 were approved.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT (Gary Peisach): Discussed at length plan for a lit LED marquis sign in front of the school, which would cost around $17,000 and require multi-club and multi-year efforts. A majority of teachers polled by Cathleen Spadea were not in favor of the sign if it cut into their $2K wish list money. We could use budgeted “Eagle Pride” money ($1350) and other unspent money into a “Special Account” and vote next year on a “Sign fund” project.

TREASURER'S REPORT (Symone Sutton): Little activity, no new income in March. PTSA paid for one “All A’s” Breakfast (AP paid for other breakfast). Under Misc., PTSA donated $250 to the new Robotics Team. Ms. Wasserman submitted expenses (Health & Welfare) of $544.

PRINCIPAL'S REPORT (Diane Garbarino):

Our team scored well at the Physics Olympics (“Egg Drop”, etc.) at Dulaney HS.
A new Robotics Team (“Project Mayhem”) won 2 awards and was invited to April competition. Had to quickly raise $5K entrance fee.
Mock trial won 3rd place in the Judicial Competition.
Math Club made it to state competition level.
“Grease” play was successful.
Blood drive was today.
Friday is the end of the Quarter.
Capital pre-budget hearing is in April.
Track to be resurfaced in July; No home football games while work is being done.
Gitty Leibtag on leave for family (mother) health issue.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

HEALTH AND WELFARE (Cathleen Spadea):

Junior class is selling Cookie Lee Jewelry as a fundraiser.
Horticulture Club is having a spring plant sale.
Relay for Life is collecting used clothing by the pound; Rachel Deitch & Jenna Silver in charge.
Anatomy and Physiology class is having a “Baby shower” for their imaginary baby due in May; will donate gifts to Reisterstown shelter.
Future Educators is holding a flea market 4/25 to raise money for a conference in Texas in 2010.
Kids Helping Hopkins is holding a new toy drive to benefit the JHH Pediatric Ward.
Coach Pritzker won Coach of the Year. Wrestler Avi Friedman won 2nd state title.
Seniors going to Denmark leave tomorrow.
Avid is promoting better vocabulary by hanging words/definitions in the hallways.
SADD Drug & Alcohol week went well.
Music Adjudication scores are in. All 3 teams made standards.

NOMINATING COMMITTEE REPORT (Helen Glazer Marcus, Barbara Korenblit, Sulena Long): Nominations are open until 4/8/09. Suggested positions are Joe O’Donnell for President, Francine Selzer for VP of Fundraising, Symone Sutton to continue as Treasurer, and Rachel Raphael to continue as Recording Secretary. Open positions are VP of Leadership and Corresponding Secretary. Notification of nominations will be emailed by 4/22/09. Elections are Tues 5/5 (General Meeting) before the spring choral concert.

SCHOOL ACTIVITIES REPORTS

HOSPITALITY/ VOLUNTEER COORINATORS (Jane Silver/ Barbara Deitch): Working on Teachers’ Appreciation Week (luncheon May 6), and Administration Professional Day Wed. April 22. Need donations for raffle prizes as well as food items. Theme is “Around the World” for teachers, and plan is to serve breakfast and offer mini massages.

RELAY FOR LIFE (Jane Silver and Barbara Deitch): This year’s relay is in memory of Caron Glassman. Suggested fundraiser is to collect dimes in water bottles (each bottle holds approx. $100).

PROJECT SAFE: Looking for volunteers to serve as cleanup crew at 5 AM for after-Prom party.

ARTS BOOSTERS (Barbara Korenblit): Spring Arts Festival weekend (dessert reception, Evan Nachimson Band, “Grease” 3 shows) was very successful, grossing $1200 through sale of food, tickets, power cards, photos, etc. Next meeting is 4/14 at 7 PM. Rock Icons Concert May 1.

SPORTS BOOSTERS (Joe O’Donnell): Fundraising is finished for the year, because there will be no home football games this season (due to track work), and it is difficult to have concessions for spring sports. Greg Wendell worked hard on the stadium project, but we lost our sponsor when the economy tanked. Bobby Zirkin has been very supportive of OMHS for budgeting matters.

SAFE HOMES (Barbara Korenblit): Needs new leadership (Chair/ co-chair) to carry on with pledges, panels, and educational presentations.

NEW BUSINESS

Bylaws (good for 3 years) need updating by May 2009. Joe O’Donnell volunteered to re-submit (with no changes) to the MD PTA.
Drive-Cam Research Project (David Sutton): MD Highway Safety and U of MD are conducting a one year study, and have selected OMHS students to participate. Fifteen car installed cameras are available (free of charge) to record significant driving events. March 31st meeting was not well attended; looking for volunteers.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: See agenda sheet for a list of upcoming activities for months of April and May.

Meeting adjourned at approximately 8:50 PM. Next meeting will be held Wednesday, May 6, 2009 at 7:15 PM in the OMHS library.

Respectfully submitted by Rachel A. Raphael, Recording Secretary

OMHS PTSA Minutes for March 4, 2009 (approved)

CALL TO ORDER: Gary Peisach, President, called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m. in the Owings Mills High School lecture hall.

ROLL CALL: In attendance were Gary Peisach, Diane Garbarino, Barbara Korenblit, Symone Sutton, Rachel Raphael, Sulena Long, Francine Selzer, Cathleen Spadea, Patricia Moy, Diane Lahn, Helen Glazer Marcus, Barbara Deitch, Jane Silver, Joan Hall, Tiyonda Dedmon, Stacey Stern, Lori O’Donnell, Karen Oppenheimer, Jacquie Brager, David Beller, Amy Materland.

MINUTES (Rachel Raphael): minutes from 2/4/09 were approved.

TREASURER'S REPORT (Symone Sutton): Basket Bingo profits were $3,681 (close to our goal), plus an anonymous donor contributed $1,000. Therefore, our budget is on target, with Eagle Pride budgeted money adjusted down (from $1350 to $1280). This includes a projected deficit of $905 (carry over into next year of $2K instead of $3K).

PRESIDENT’S REPORT (Gary Peisach): Although we fell short on membership, between Bingo and the alumni parent (anonymous) donation, we are on target for fulfilling teachers’ wish list suggestions. One idea to consider is a marquis sign ($6K to $7K for manual letters up to $20K for electronic scrolling sign), for which we would have to budget over the next several years. Cathleen Spadea agreed to re-poll the teachers on their desire for or against a marquis sign to advertise events to students and the community.

PRINCIPAL'S REPORT (Diane Garbarino):

Interims went out Tuesday.
Spring musical is March 20-23.
Registration is under way for next year.
Staffing will be increased by 1.4 teachers next year.
English teacher Angela Glenn had a baby girl.
Middle States Evaluation –surveys to parents online and students in class are underway.
Mock trial committee is in the semi-finals, doing great!
Wrestling team is doing great (in state and regional competitions)! Avi Friedman was featured on Fox TV last night and in the newspaper. (Wrestling news presented by Helen Glazer Marcus).

COMMITTEE REPORTS

HEALTH AND WELFARE (Cathleen Spadea):

Music Countywide Adjudication is coming up; permission slips went out.
Next week SADD hosts a Drug and Alcohol Awareness program, including Keith Mills Assembly on Tuesday and the Gymkana Troupe from UM and pizza party for SADD members on Friday.
Faculty Basketball Game was rescheduled from 3/2 to 3/10 because of snow.
Spring sports began this week.

HOSPITALITY/ VOLUNTEER COORINATORS (Jane Silver/ Barbara Deitch): Working on Teachers’ Appreciation Luncheon in May, and Secretary’s Luncheon (for administrators) in April.

SCHOOL ACTIVITIES REPORTS

ARTS BOOSTERS (Karen Oppenheimer): Spring Arts Festival is 3/20 to 3/22, with 3 productions of the musical “Grease” (dessert reception Friday night, pre-show concert with Evan Nachimson Band Sat. night, and matinee show on Sunday). Arts Boosters will be selling concessions and seat cushion rentals.

NEW BUSINESS

PTSA is in need of a nominating committee for next year’s slate of officers, needed by next month (April meeting). Must be announced at least 10 days before the May PTSA meeting.

At 8:00 PM, Barbara Korenblit, representing the Safe Homes Committee, introduced the special guest speaker, Psychiatrist Dr. Sharon Bisco, who spoke on “Teens and Depression: What Parents Need to Know”.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: See agenda sheet for a list of upcoming activities for months of March and April.

Meeting adjourned at approximately 8:45 PM. Next meeting will be held Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at 7:15 PM in the OMHS library.

Respectfully submitted by Rachel A. Raphael, Recording Secretary

OMHS PTSA Minutes for February 4, 2009 (approved)

CALL TO ORDER: Gary Peisach, President, called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. in the Owings Mills High school library.

ROLL CALL: In attendance were Gary Peisach, Diane Garbarino, Barbara Korenblit, Symone and David Sutton, Rachel Raphael, Sulena Long, Francine Selzer, Cathleen Spadea, Patricia Moy, Diane Lahn, Helen Glazer Marcus, Barbara Deitch, Jane Silver, Roberta Siskind, Joan Hall, Tiyonda Dedmon, Angela Hopkins, Andrea Wilson, Nancy Narod.

MINUTES (Rachel Raphael): minutes from 12/3/08 were approved; there was no January PTSA meeting.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT (Gary Peisach):

Thanked the volunteers who are working hard on Basket Bingo fundraiser.
Asked for design suggestions for the ½ page yearbook ad PTSA takes out.
Requested a list of PTSA parents of graduating seniors and their activities (for end of year scholarship).
Suggested new Reisterstown Sportsplex Ice Rink as a possible fundraising activity ($10 for Skate Night admission and rentals, with $3 back to sponsoring group).

TREASURER'S REPORT (Symone Sutton): Latest budget reflects December and January combined. Major expenses were $250 to SADD’s Adopt-a-Family, some Bingo expenses (license) and PTSA dues paid.

PRINCIPAL'S REPORT (Diane Garbarino):

OMHS is in process of Middle States Evaluation (Assessment of 12 standards for accreditation), and will need input from parents (link to survey on OMHS website) and students (will complete surveys during English classes next week).
Registration process began this week, with a video shown to students. Discuss and help your student make course selections for next year.
Report cards will be distributed February 9th.
Mr. Murray was diagnosed with cancer, and began his first chemotherapy treatment today.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

MEMBERSHIP (Sulena Long): December/January only brought in a “trickle” of new members; we are below estimated memberships (at about 80% of last year), but hope Basket Bingo fundraiser generates big revenues. We are considering ways to boost membership, such as summer socials, invitations to incoming freshman parents.

HEALTH AND WELFARE (Cathleen Spadea):

New brown and gold stripes in the gym look spirited.
Basket Bingo (Feb. 7) is being promoted in the school with emails and announcements.
Grades were uploaded and done by teachers online for the first time, and went smoothly and more efficiently. Distribution Feb 9.
Snow Ball Dance is Saturday February 14th at school, 8 PM.
Mock trial won their first two matches. Next trial is an elimination round.
Faculty basketball is scheduled for March 2nd.
SADD is holding a Gianni’s Pizza fundraiser for Drug, Alcohol, and Tobacco Awareness month (March).
Arts Boosters is selling merchant cards for $5.
Rehearsals began for spring musical “Grease”. Arts Festival Weekend changed to March 20-22, with a meet-and-greet (photo shoot with car and cast) on Friday night, a pre-show concert by Evan Nachimson’s band Saturday night, and a Sunday matinee.
Thespian Society hosts a Jazz Coffee House on February 20th at 7 PM.

SCHOOL ACTIVITIES REPORTS

SAFE HOMES (Barbara Korenblit): A psychiatrist, Dr. Sharon Bisco, is scheduled to speak on teen depression immediately following the next PTSA meeting March 4, at 8 PM in the lecture hall.
PROJECT SAFE (Roberta Siskind): The meeting was snowed out, but committee chairs are in place and organized. Contact Faith Gershowitz (410-363-4153) or Karen Levy if interested in helping out.
CLASS LIAISONS: (Nancy Narod for Senior class): Qdoba Nite planned; seniors in good shape financially for their prom. (Roberta Siskind for freshman class): Sold sweatshirts, had a restaurant night, planning a car wash.

BASKET BINGO is this weekend, Saturday 2/7/09, 1-4:30 PM at Hannah More School. Gary Peisach reviewed status and committees for this weekend’s big PTSA fundraiser. Bingo cards are assembled, baskets full of great prizes are made, and programs are printed. The event has been well promoted in school and in the community. We saved over $1,000 this year by opting not to use Longeberger baskets. There will be 15 regular games, 4 additional games, a 50/50 “Split the Pot” game, and 3 Raffle baskets. Pizza, drinks, and baked goods will be sold.

OTHER NEWS:

Music department is looking for instruments for tax deductible donation.
Scholarship packets went out for seniors. Deadline is 2/25 by 9AM.
Guidance department is looking into offering SAT/ACT sessions with Martha Gannon, at approximately $200 for four 2.5 hour sessions.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: See agenda sheet for a list of upcoming activities for months of February and March.

Meeting adjourned at 8:35 PM. Next meeting will be held Wednesday, March 4, 2009 at 7:15 PM in the Lecture Hall, with speaker on Teens and Depression from 8-8:45.

Respectfully submitted by Rachel A. Raphael, Recording Secretary

OMHS PTSA Minutes for December 3, 2008

CALL TO ORDER: Gary Peisach, President, called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. in the Owings Mills High school library.

ROLL CALL: In attendance were Gary Peisach, Diane Garbarino, Barbara Korenblit, Symone Sutton, Rachel Raphael, Sulena Long, Francine Selzer, Cathleen Spadea, Lori and Joe O’Donnell, Patricia Moy, Diane Lahn, Helen Glazer Marcus, Barbara Deitch, Theresa Bradshaw, Roberta Siskind, Joan Hall, Tiyonda Dedmon, Karen Oppenheimer, Vicki Almond (rep. for Senator Zirkin).

MINUTES (Rachel Raphael): minutes from 11/5/08 were approved.

TREASURER'S REPORT (Symone Sutton): There was very little activity for the month of November, (few expenses and little income). There were two winners of the Best Buy $50 gift cards for the PTSA membership drive, to be announced tomorrow.

PRINCIPAL'S REPORT (Diane Garbarino):

Concerning staff changes, Ms. Leiptag returned to school Monday after 6-8 weeks out for family illness. Mr. Mann, the new athletic director, has been ill and cannot continue his duties; Mr. Bryan Bandurchin is the acting athletic director.
Interims come out 12/8. Winter music program is 12/9. Thursday 12/11 is Financial Aid night and parent-teacher conference night (4:30 to 6:30); PTSA will have a membership table.
High School Assessments (HSAs) will be administered in January.
Tennis courts and multi-purpose work has begun, scheduled for spring completion! The track resurfacing should be completed by summer! Work on the baseball diamond is finished.
School re-accreditation (done every 7 years) is on track, with surveys soon to go out to parents, student and teachers.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

MEMBERSHIP (Sulena Long): Membership is down from last year, with about $4,000 collected in membership and donations to date. November membership drive brought in roughly $400 for the month.
BASKET BINGO (Francine Selzer): So far around 15 prizes and donations have been collected, but we need a lot more! Flyers should be distributed in January. Bingo committee members will meet in January.
HEALTH AND WELFARE (Cathleen Spadea): Interims go out next week. Traffic Safety Week was very successful. Adopt-A-Family is underway. Each homeroom has been assigned specific food items. All 60 families have been adopted! Wrapping Night is Tues. 12/16. Rachel Raphael agreed to shop for the PTSA’s adopted family ($250 budgeted).

SCHOOL ACTIVITIES REPORTS

CLASS LIASONS: Senior Class Advisor (Roberta Siskind): Senior class is doing well with the gift card fundraiser; cards are now ready for pick up. Seniors are selling tee-shirts and sweatshirts. Freshman Class Advisor (Roberta Siskind): Freshmen held their first steering committee meeting. They are selling sweatshirts, and planning a spring car wash fundraiser.
ARTS BOOSTERS (Karen Oppenheimer): Purchased their first piece of

theater equipment, an amplifier for the sound system.

SPORTS BOOSTERS (Joe O’Donnell): Bull Roast was very successful. Although fewer tickets were sold, they raised as much money as last year.
SAFE HOMES (Barbara Korenblit): A psychiatrist is scheduled to speak on teen depression at the next PTSA meeting March 4.

NEW BUSINESS

REPRESENTATIVE FROM BOBBY ZIRKIN’S OFFICE (Vicki Almond): The Maryland State Senator is sponsoring the Stadium Seating funding.
FUNDRAISING (Gary Peisach): “Aisle 19” will be a new PTSA fundraising initiative, where members shop (discounted shopping and free to join) at over 600 online stores, and 2-3% of the proceeds go directly to our PTSA.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: See agenda sheet for a list of upcoming activities for month of December and January.

Meeting adjourned at 8:25 PM. No January meeting. Next meeting will be held Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at 7:15 PM in the school library.

Respectfully submitted by Rachel A. Raphael, Recording Secretary

OMHS PTSA Minutes for November 5, 2008 (approved)

CALL TO ORDER: Gary Peisach, President, called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. in the Owings Mills High school library.

ROLL CALL: In attendance were Gary Peisach, Barbara Korenblit, Symone Sutton, Jacqui Sutton, Rachel Raphael, Francine Selzer, Cathleen Spadea, Lori and Joe O’Donnell, Dave Pyser, Patricia Moy, Angela Hopkins, Wendy Lansing, Daniel Resnick, Faith Gershowitz, Tiyonda Dedmon, Sharon Schwartz, Diane Lahn, Helen Glazer Marcus, Barbara Deitch, Jane Silver.

MINUTES (Rachel Raphael): minutes from 10/1/08 were approved.

PRESIDENT'S REPORT (Gary Peisach):

In-school membership drive was held last week, with Guy Pritzker making announcements on Eagle TV several times. Two students of PTSA member families will be randomly drawn and awarded a $50 gift certificate to Best Buy as an added incentive to join. Response has been slow, with only 10-12 new members joining recently, despite our efforts.
We are below our goal for memberships and donations, with about $3,700 collected out of budgeted $5,600.
Past president Marcie Koteen approached Gary with a new fundraising suggestion, involving Internet shopping incentives to our group.

TREASURER'S REPORT (Symone Sutton): There was very little activity for the month of October, (few expenses and little income).

PRINCIPAL'S REPORT: Diane Garbarino could not attend, so there was no Principal’s Report tonight.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

HEALTH AND WELFARE (Cathleen Spadea for Cindy Wasserman):

Second quarter began today, and report cards will be distributed 11/17.
HSA reports come out next week.
Seniors are working on college applications.
Junior ring ceremony will be held 11/11; Fall play 11/21 to 11/23, Sports Boosters Bull Roast 11/14.
Teachers gave suggestions for school beautification and improvement money allocation. Their strongest responses were for a scrolling marquee sign, and classroom door signs.
A meeting for parents of seniors will be held tomorrow night to discuss graduation, yearbook ads, cap and gown, etc.

SCHOOL ACTIVITIES REPORTS

ARTS BOOSTERS (Barbara Korenblit): IHOP Night tomorrow 11/6 from 4-10 PM. Next Arts Boosters meeting 11/11 at 7 PM in the Library. They will be selling concessions during the Fall play 11/21 to 11/23.
SPORTS BOOSTERS (Joe O’Donnell): Bull Roast Friday 11/14, their major fundraiser, will have catering by Poulet, a live band, and a silent auction.
PROJECT SAFE (Faith Gershowitz): Co-chair will be Karen Levy. This year’s after-prom party will be at King’s Point Bowling Alley. Next meeting 12/10 at 7:30 PM at OMHS. Contact FaithG@RSFChart.com.
NORTHWEST ADVISORY (Dave Peyser): We had a good turnout for the budget hearing meeting 10/14, with 6 of 20 presenters representing OMHS. Next meeting (Legislative Forum) will be 11/12 at Milford Mill Academy 7 PM. He also discussed a possible future exit ramp for I-795, which would increase traffic on Tollgate Rd. by our school.
JUNIOR CLASS LIAISON (Jacqui Sutton): Preparations are taking place for the Junior Ring Ceremony. Winter Fundraiser to be announced. Noodle Night raised around $200 to $250.

BASKET BINGO (Gary Peisach): This year, our big PTSA fundraiser will be held at Hannah More School Sat. Feb 7, (snow date 2/21) from 1 to 4:30 PM, and will be run by committee chairs (no single chair). Francine Selzer and Gary will be Bingo Coordinators. Five operating committees include Ad Book (Symone Sutton), Prize Baskets (Francine), Game Day (Gary), Publicity (Barbara Korenblit), and Food (Rachel Raphael). We encourage students to attend. There will be door prizes, raffles, special games, etc. Everyone needs to solicit businesses we know (request 2 per person) for a prize item or ad book contribution.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: See agenda sheet for a list of upcoming activities for month of November.

TRAFFIC SAFETY PRESENTATION (Cindy Wasserman): 8:30 to 9:00 PM. Upcoming schedule of events for OMHS Traffic Safety Week (Monday November 10th to Friday November 14th) were discussed, including crashed car display, first-hand accounts from trauma victims, Safety Bug, Grim Reaper, Traffic Safety Fair, etc.

Meeting adjourned at 9:00 PM Next meeting will be held Wednesday, December 3, 2008 at 7:15 PM in the school library.

Respectfully submitted by Rachel A. Raphael, Recording Secretary

OMHS PTSA Minutes for October 1, 2008 (Approved)

CALL TO ORDER: Gary Peisach, President, called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. in the Owings Mills High school library.

ROLL CALL: In attendance were Gary Peisach, Diane Garbarino, Barbara Korenblit, Symone Sutton, Jacqui Sutton, Rachel Raphael, Sulena Long, Francine Selzer, Denise Cotto, Cathleen Spadea, Lori and Joe O’Donnell, Wendy Lansing, Elise Jaffe, Karen Oppenheimer, Pam Solomon, Renee Kimmel, Roberta Siskind, Harriet Brilliant, Dave Pyser, Nancy Narod, Tiyonda Dedmon, Patricia Moy, Angela Hopkins.

MINUTES (Rachel Raphael): minutes from 9/3/08 were approved.

PRESIDENT'S REPORT (Gary Peisach):

Basket Bingo, which accounts for half of PTSA revenue, still needs a chair.
Arts Boosters needs volunteers to help with “Reflections”; last year there were no submissions.
Alan and Heidi Kauffman agreed to work on re-qualifying OMHS for the National PTSA School of Excellence Award.

TREASURER'S REPORT (Symone Sutton): Membership and donations total just over $3,000 to date. Expenses for September were $102.

PRINCIPAL'S REPORT (Diane Garbarino):

This Saturday Seniors will take SAT tests; A Connect Call went out tonight.
PSAT Testing for college bound Juniors is 10/15; Cost $13 due Friday.
Tuesday 10/14 a pre-operating budget hearing will be held at Randallstown Elementary School. Sign in 6:30, and meeting at 7 p.m. Two main concerns are staffing (guidance and art departments), and equipment (cameras and computers) for our school. We have been successful in the past at having our needs met when well represented by student and faculty presenters at this meeting.
This year is a self-study accreditation year, and next year an evaluation year (every 7 years) for school survey and improvement plan.
10/16 is Parent Conference Night by appointment with teachers.
Next week is HSA Testing for 11th and 12th graders.
Next week is also Spirit Week, with a pep rally planned for Friday and Homecoming Game Friday night. Powder Puff game is Tues. night 10/7.
Caron Glassman (dedicated parent of former OMHS students) died recently, as did Mrs. Peters, the mother of a new OMHS student.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

MEMBERSHIP (Sulena Long): We are roughly just over half of membership goal dollars compared to last year. We would like to have a membership drive in October (advertised on Eagle TV) with a prize drawing for homeroom with the most members.
BASKET BINGO (Francine Selzer-organizer): Thanks to Gary for the solicitation letter for prizes for Basket Bingo to be held Feb. 7. We need help with various committees such as prizes, game cards, food, set up and clean up, etc.
HEALTH AND WELFARE (Cathleen Spadea for Cindy Wasserman): Prep for HSA and SAT testing is underway. End of semester grading is taking place. New mums were planted outside, and school is being painted. SADD Gianni's order arrives tomorrow 10/2. Penny War (to raise money for Tri-M and the winning class) starts tomorrow and runs next week.

SCHOOL ACTIVITIES REPORTS

SAFE HOMES (Barbara Korenblit): Met tonight before the PTSA meeting. A proposed topic is Teen Depression, perhaps for the March PTSA meeting. Maryland passed a law with stricter penalties for parents who serve alcohol to minors under 21 ($2,500 for 1st offense, $5,000 for 2nd offense).
SPORTS BOOSTERS (Joe O’Donnell): Bull Roast to be held at Hannah More November 14. The new fence is working well, and Sports Boosters has been able to collect admission for games. Season Passes for Sports Boosters members are available for purchase through Jeff Mann. Powder Puff will cost $1 per person admission to be split evenly between the Junior and Senior classes.
ARTS BOOSTERS (Karen Oppenheimer): Car wash was successful and raised around $600. Fuddruckers Nite is Monday 10/6, 5-8 PM. Fall concert is Tues 10/14 at 7 PM with Arts Boosters meeting before at 6 PM. Patrons are needed for booklet at programs throughout the year. AMC Bowling cards are available at no charge (bowl one game free, with $1 per card benefiting Arts Boosters).
CLASS LIAISONS: For 9th grade, we have 3 new volunteers: Elise Joffe, Roberta Siskind, and Wendy Lansing. For 10th grade, Tina Mazer will be liaison, and for 11th grade, Denise Cotto and Symone Sutton will serve as liaisons. Jacqui Sutton, 11th grader, reported that Juniors have practiced for Powder Puff, and tee-shirts are coming next week. For 12th graders, Nancy Narod and Roberta Siskind reported on a successful Qudoba night last week, and gift cards are on sale until Friday 10/3.

NEW BUSINESS

8TH GRADE OPEN HOUSE: Thursday 10/23 at 6:30 PM, PTSA volunteers will greet at the front door. Cake and food will be provided in the lobby, and various clubs will be represented.
CARON GLASSMAN MEMORIUM: PTSA would like to honor Caron Glassman's memory; suggestions were made for a plaque in her name to honor parent volunteers, a student scholarship in her name, etc.
EAGLE PRIDE: Ideas were discussed for building beautification projects, such as mirrors, banners, an eagle mascot costume, outdoor message board, etc.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: See agenda sheet for a list of upcoming activities for month of October.

Meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. Next meeting will be held Wednesday, November 5, 2008 at 7:15 in the school library.

Respectfully submitted by Rachel A. Raphael, Recording Secretary

OMHS PTSA Minutes for September 3, 2008 (Approved)

CALL TO ORDER: Gary Peisach, President, called the first PTSA meeting of the 2008-2009 school year to order at 7:30 p.m. in the Owings Mills High school library.

WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS: In attendance were Gary Peisach, Diane Garbarino, Barbara Korenblit, Lori and Joe O'Donnell, Francine and Natalie Selzer, Cathleen Spadea, Symone and Jacqui Sutton, Dana Feldman, Tiffany Bradshaw, Karen Oppenheimer, Angela Hopkins, Roberta Siskind, Nancy Narod, Sherri Kassimir, Helen Glazer Marcus, Michael Fine, Stacy Stern, Tina Mazor, Betsy Peisach, Diane Lahn, Rachel Raphael, Elise Joffe, Harriet Brilliant, Jane Silver, Donna Millman, Sulena Long.

MINUTES: As this was the first meeting of the new school year, there were no minutes to read or approve.

PRESIDENT'S REPORT (Gary Peisach):
• The PTSA Executive Board officers met several times over the summer and put together a proposed budget for the '08-09 school year, for approval at the Back to School night next week (9/11).
• The 9th Grade Orientation last week went well. At that event, Gary encouraged PTSA membership and the need for involvement of incoming parents, as many of our Senior parents will graduate and leave vacant positions.
• We need to increase PTSA membership this year! Last year less than 20% of our parents joined. This year, as an added incentive, (thanks to Rachel Raphael), those who join the PTSA can receive a 20% discount on Waldies, our new corporate sponsor.

TREASURER'S REPORT (Symone Sutton): Reviewed the proposed '08-'09 budget, which projects a budgeted deficit of about $900, but with a carry over balance of over $2,000 to more than cover us. We budgeted $2,000 for Teachers' Wish List this year and $100 to the new Arts Boosters. We need lots of help with Basket Bingo, our biggest fund raiser. The budget was tentatively approved tonight.

PRINCIPAL'S REPORT (Diane Garbarino):
• 9th grade Orientation 8/21/08 was successful; parents and students enjoyed the student-led tours and found them helpful.
• Class of 2009 is the first class that must meet HSA requirements to graduate. OMHS has the lowest percentage of non-passing students in the NW area.
• 9th and 10th graders received the Student Handbook today. 11th and 12th graders will receive them tomorrow. Parents must sign and return two pages.
• 12th graders are buying parking permits, approx. 61 spaces available.
• Thursday 9/11 is Back to School night; PTSA will have a table in the lobby.
• OMHS was featured in the newspaper “Classroom to Community Express” in recognition for their AP involvement and 5th place ranking.
• OMHS welcomes a French foreign exchange student, Pauline Yusman, 11th grader, this year.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

MEMBERSHIP (Sulena Long): We need to increase membership from the 20% of families that joined last year. Encourage families and businesses to join. We will push for memberships at Back to School night.
BASKET BINGO (Francine Selzer-organizer): We still need a chairperson, but Francine will organize committees. The date is February 7 at Hannah More School (Snow date February 21), 1-5 p.m. Flyers went out to middle and high schools. Letters for corporate donations should start going out now!
HOSPITALITY/VOLUNTEER COORDINATORS (Jane Silver & Barbara Deitch): are already working on donations for Teachers & Secretary's Luncheons. Eighth Grade Orientation, a PTSA sponsored event, to be held Thurs 10/23 at 6:30 pm, needs a chairperson.
WEB SITE /eNEWS (Helen Glazer Marcus): Visit OMHSPTSA.org to find updated school calendar, minutes and other useful information. If you wish to receive the e-news (monthly) subscription, contact Helen at info@OMHS.org. Lori O'Donnell will assist Helen this year and take over next year as WebMaster.
HEALTH AND WELFARE (Cathleen Spadea for Cindy Wasserman):
SADD meeting was held today in the beautiful new lecture hall, with nearly 200 students attending!
The school has begun a recycling program; bins are located in classrooms.
Reisterstown Festival will be held this weekend, and our marching band will perform.
34 faculty members have joined the PTSA so far.
OMHS will hold another big Traffic Safety week this year.
Fence for stadium program was approved and is going up. OMHS is on top of the list to receive tennis court and track resurfacing for 2010.
CULTURAL ARTS/ “REFLECTIONS”: National program honoring dance, literature, music, poetry (the Arts), will be taken over and promoted by the new Arts Boosters club.

PTSA OPERATIONS

TELEPHONE SQUAD: Diane Lahn and Joan Hall have it covered.
GIANT/SAFEWAY BONUS: The position is open for a coordinator to promote this program and collect card numbers to earn our school and PTSA contributions from these food chains.
PUBLICITY: Position is open for a chair to promote our school to the press.

PTSA CLASS & FACULTY LIAISONS

The position for 9th grade class liaison is open. Tina Mazer agreed to represent the 10th graders. Symone Sutton is available as liaison for the 11th graders. Nancy Narod and Roberta Siskind for the 12th graders (Class of 2009) reported on upcoming car wash, restaurant night (Qudoba 9/16), and Caribou coffee to be sold at Back to School night.

Jacqui Sutton, Junior Class representative, reported on Class of 2010 upcoming activities like a car wash 9/13 at the Safeway Shell station, and restaurant night, planning for Junior prom.

SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT TEAM: Position is open for team to meet daytime, 3rd Thursday of each month at 2:30 p.m. and review the plan, make recommendations.
PROJECT SAFE: Faith Gershowitz and Karen Levy have agreed to co-chair this after prom party event.
SAFE HOMES (Barbara Korenblit): Begun 1 ½ years ago, parents agree to sign a contract pledging a drug-free, alcohol-free environment for their children. This OMHS program won a “Top 12” award last year. The group hosts educational and social gatherings. The new contract is simplified and more realistic this year. Please complete a survey for Safe Homes.
SPORTS BOOSTERS (Joe O’Donnell): Meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month, and raises money (through concessions and membership) for sports supplies, uniforms, new stadium, etc. Minimum level to join is $50. This year sporting events cost $5 for adults, $3 for students, and $1 for students wearing OMHS clothing.
ARTS BOOSTERS (Karen Oppenheimer): New parent organization whose goal is to raise funds to support the Arts programs at OMHS. First meeting is Tuesday 9/9 at 7 pm in the library. Car wash is Saturday 9/20 at the Safeway Shell station, 1-4 pm. Fuddrucker’s Night is 10/6, 5-8 pm. IHOP Night 11/6, 4 pm until closing.
EAGLE PRIDE: Open for a committee chair.

REGIONAL LIAISONS

NW ADVISORY COUNCIL: Dave Pyser will again hold representative position.
REISTERSTOWN, OWINGS MILLS, GLYNDON (ROG) REPRESENTATIVE: Francine Selzer has agreed to this position.

NEW BUSINESS

• NATIONAL PTA SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE: Two parents have expresses an interest in re-qualifying our school for this honor.
• VOLUNTEER FAIR: Open position.
• ANNOUNCEMENTS: See agenda sheet for a list of upcoming activities for month of September.

Meeting adjourned at 9:30 p.m. Next meeting will be held Wednesday, October 1, 2008 at 7:15 in the school library, at which time we will break into groups to brain storm ideas for Basket Bingo, Project Safe, Eagle Pride, etc.

ADDENDUM: PTSA MEETING 9/11/08 AT BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT

PRESIDENT’S REPORT: Gary Peisach presented goals and past accomplishments of the OMHS PTSA, and encouraged membership. He also presented (on behalf of Symone Sutton, Treasurer) the proposed 2008-2009 budget. The budget was approved.

MEMBERSHIP REPORT: Sulena Long, Membership Chair, also urged PTSA membership and its importance.

SPORTS BOOSTERS: Marcie Wendell discussed the current plans and goals of this group, and encouraged membership.

ARTS BOOSTERS: Karen Oppenheimer described the purpose and goals of this new parent organization, open to all.

Respectfully submitted by Rachel A. Raphael, Recording Secretary