CMGA Officers

Billy Baxter, President

Billy graduated with the Fairfield County Class of 2002 and assumed the role of Treasurer in 2004. He recalls that he often had to help his father (also a Master Gardener) with gardening chores on the family's small farm in Mississippi. After retiring, his renewed efforts in his own garden drew many compliments - and requests for advice - from his neighbors.

John Carlson, Vice President

After retiring in early 1992, John completed the Master Gardener requirements in the Haddam 1993 class. His interest in gardening began during WWII when the suburban northern New Jersey town he grew up in relaxed the zoning restrictions to encourage growing vegetables and raising chickens. The joy of that experience never left and he has gardened wherever he's lived since. Previously, he served a three-year period as membership Chairman. He remains active in the production of CMGA's Annual Symposium and enjoys answering gardening questions from anyone.

Sandy Myhalik, Treasurer

After two years as CMGA Secretary, Sandy took a year off but has been pressed back into service as our new Treasurer. She completed the Master Gardener program at the West Hartford Extension Center in 2003 and recently earned her Advanced Master Gardener certification. Sandy graciously opened her Farmington garden on the first Master Gardener Tour last year , and she has worked on projects at the Farmington Library, Noah Wallace School, and the Habitat for Humanity House in Farmington. She also grows and shows orchids, taking “Best of Phalaenopsis” in the West Hartford show this year and 4 blue ribbons in other areas.

Barbara Mitchell, Secretary

Barbara completed her MG Certification in the Fairfield County Class of 1996 and her Advanced MG Certification in 2003. She has been active in the Fairfield office activities and with Bartlett Arboretum. As a new resident of Avon, Barbara is starting anew with her gardens, is actively supporting Elizabeth Park, and looks forward to being closer to all of the CMGA activities.