PBS Transitions to New Leadership

[Emil]

Dear Pacific Bulb Society Members,

We are sorry to let you know that Robin Hansen has stepped back from her position as PBS President, due to extenuating circumstances. Under her careful guidance, PBS has held its course—through a pandemic no less!—and is thriving. On behalf of the membership and the Board, I would like to thank and commend Robin for the time and energy she gave to the Society. In recognition of her service, the Board has extended Robin a lifetime membership. 

Robin had intended to complete her term through the end of this year, but with her recent resignation, Bridget Wosczyna (who was Vice President) acted as Interim President.

The Board held regular elections at their meeting this past weekend, and there were several changes to the Board and its Officers. 

Bridget has been elected President for a term of two years and will continue to manage the Bulb Exchange.

The Board made two other appointments at the meeting.

As Bridget's election to President left a vacancy in the Vice President office, Society member Mark Akimoff volunteered to join the Board and step into this role, and was affirmed at the meeting. Mark is a plantsman who runs Illahe Rare Plants, a nursery in Oregon. He is appreciative of the wisdom and knowledge he has gained from PBS over the years, and is excited to give back. Welcome Mark, and thank you!

Jan Jeddeloh advised us earlier this year that she would withdraw as Seed Exchange Manager at the end of 2023. In her stead we have appointed Lisa Zankowski, the proprietress of Shoal Creek Succulents in Illinois. Lisa has been a longtime follower of PBS and has a professional background and expertise with plants, seeds, and plant shipping. Welcome Lisa, and thank you! Jan will be working with Lisa to transfer the operation as smoothly as possible. Thank you Jan, for your efforts as Seed Exchange Manager!

Arnold Trachtenberg will continue to serve as Treasurer and I will continue as Secretary. Robin will continue to edit our journal, The Bulb Garden.

If you wish to follow Board proceedings, please keep an eye on the website, where we intend to begin to post the Minutes. Historically these have been published in The Bulb Garden, but we feel that the printed paper is better saved for primary content, while having the Minutes in a digital repository is a more organized approach.

Sincerely,
Emil Friend
Secretary