Get to know us

About Itsa Glass

At Itsa Glass, we celebrate the joy and excitement that glass brings into our lives. Whether you are a seasoned collector or someone who simply appreciates the beauty and practicality of glass, our club is a vibrant community where everyone can share their stories and experiences.

Glass is more than just a collectible item; it plays a significant role in our daily lives and has a rich history in American manufacturing. From the glasses we toast with to the windows we look through, glass connects us in countless ways. This universal material fosters relationships and memories, making every piece of glass a part of our shared human experience.

Our mission is to ignite interest in the heritage of glassmaking in the United States. We place a special focus on the artistry and craftsmanship of American-made glass, inviting both collectors and enthusiasts to learn about its history and significance. By highlighting the fun and unique experiences of glass collecting, we aim to make every discovery an adventure and to inspire a deeper appreciation for this timeless craft.

We welcome new members to join our community, whether your interest lies in the intricate details of glass art or in the simple joy of holding a beautifully crafted piece. Together, we can celebrate and preserve the rich tradition of glassmaking, fostering friendships and collaborations that go beyond the glass itself.

Join Itsa Glass and become a member of Club Enthusiasts, where every story is a part of our collective heritage, and every piece of glass is a link in the chain of our shared human history. Let’s explore, discover, and enjoy the wonderful world of glass together!

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Order of Business

To celebrate and promote the universal connections we share through glass by fostering a vibrant inclusive community of enthusiasts....

A fiduciary overview of 501(c)(7) organizational operations

These goals guide the Board of Directors in their efforts to create a thriving, supportive, and enriching community for all members...

Board members are essential to the success of the organization. Their collective expertise and dedication...

Our strength lies in our individuality. Founded by Newman Millhollon Turner, the team at Itsa Glass brings together...

These roles are crucial for the effective governance and operation of the organization, ensuring...

Our mission

To celebrate and promote the universal connections we share through glass by fostering a vibrant, inclusive community of enthusiasts. Our mission includes supporting the preservation of glass history, particularly through our partnership with the Redlands Historical Glass Museum and providing educational and enjoyable experiences for our members.

Our vision

To create a globally recognized and vibrant community that celebrates the beauty, history, and craftsmanship of glass. We strive to foster connections among enthusiasts, promote education and appreciation, support preservation efforts, encourage participation from all walks of life, and inspire joy and creativity in the exploration and appreciation of glass.

Our team

Our strength lies in our individuality. Founded by Newman Millhollon Turner, the team at Itsa Glass brings together the best talent from various fields. Each member contributes unique skills and perspectives, creating a vibrant and inclusive community dedicated to celebrating the beauty, craftsmanship and practicality of glass. Together, we strive to foster connections, promote education, support preservation efforts, and inspire joy in the exploration and appreciation of glass.

Newman Millhollon Turner

Founder / CLUB PRESIDENT

Kate Weesner

FOUNDING MEMBER / CLUB TREASUER

Ryan Beck

FOUNDING MEMBER / CLUB SECERTARY

Goals: Itsa Glass 501(c)(7) Board of Directors

These goals guide the Board of Directors in their efforts to create a thriving, supportive, and enriching community for all members of the Itsa Glass 501(c)(7) Social Club. By focusing on these key areas, the board ensures the club's long-term success and impact.

1. Promote Community Engagement

  • Objective: Foster a vibrant and inclusive community where members can share their passion for glass collecting and connect with like-minded individuals.

  • Actions: Organize regular virtual and in-person events, encourage active participation in discussions, and build strong relationships within the community.

2. Support the Redlands Historical Glass Museum

  • Objective: Provide financial and volunteer support to the Redlands Historical Glass Museum to help preserve the rich history of glassmaking.

  • Actions: Allocate a portion of membership fees to the museum, promote museum events, and coordinate volunteer efforts among club members.

3. Expand Membership

  • Objective: Grow the membership base to include a diverse range of individuals, from seasoned collectors to casual enthusiasts.

  • Actions: Develop targeted marketing campaigns, offer membership incentives, and leverage social media to reach a broader audience.

4. Enhance Member Benefits

  • Objective: Continually improve the value provided to members through exclusive benefits and opportunities.

  • Actions: Offer high-quality newsletters, host educational webinars and workshops, and provide access to special events and exhibitions.

5. Promote Education and Awareness

  • Objective: Increase awareness and appreciation of glassmaking history and craftsmanship among members and the general public.

  • Actions: Develop educational materials, host public lectures and demonstrations, and collaborate with other organizations to promote glassmaking heritage.

6. Ensure Financial Stability

  • Objective: Maintain a healthy financial position to support the club’s activities and goals.

  • Actions: Implement sound financial management practices, explore diverse revenue streams, and conduct regular financial reviews.

7. Foster Inclusivity and Diversity

  • Objective: Create an inclusive environment where all members feel welcome and valued, regardless of their background or level of expertise.

  • Actions: Promote diversity in membership, ensure representation in leadership roles, and cultivate a culture of respect and inclusivity.

8. Support and Recognize Volunteers

  • Objective: Acknowledge the contributions of volunteers who are vital to the success of the club.

  • Actions: Develop volunteer recognition programs, provide training and development opportunities, and ensure volunteers have the resources they need.

Roles of the Board's President, Treasurer, and Secretary

These roles are crucial for the effective governance and operation of the organization, ensuring that it fulfills its mission and meets its fiduciary responsibilities.

President

Role Description: The President of the Board serves as the chief executive officer of the organization, providing overall leadership and direction to the Board and the organization. This role involves overseeing the operations, ensuring the implementation of the Board's policies and decisions, and representing the organization to external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Leadership: Provide strategic direction and leadership to the Board and the organization.

  • Meetings: Preside over all Board meetings, ensuring they are conducted effectively and efficiently.

  • Representation: Act as the primary spokesperson for the organization in public and to external stakeholders.

  • Oversight: Monitor the implementation of Board decisions and policies.

  • Collaboration: Work closely with the Treasurer and Secretary to ensure the smooth operation of the organization.

  • Support: Provide support and guidance to other Board members and committee chairs.

Treasurer

Role Description: The Treasurer is responsible for the financial oversight of the organization. This includes managing the organization’s finances, ensuring accurate financial record-keeping, and providing financial reports to the Board.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Financial Management: Oversee the organization’s financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting.

  • Record-Keeping: Ensure accurate and up-to-date financial records are maintained.

  • Reporting: Prepare and present financial reports at Board meetings.

  • Compliance: Ensure compliance with financial regulations and reporting requirements.

  • Budgeting: Assist in the preparation and monitoring of the organization’s budget.

  • Advisory: Provide financial advice and guidance to the Board and executive team.

Secretary

Role Description: The Secretary is responsible for maintaining the official records of the organization, ensuring effective communication within the Board and between the Board and the organization’s members.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Record-Keeping: Maintain accurate records of Board meetings, including minutes, agendas, and other documentation.

  • Communication: Facilitate communication within the Board and with the organization’s members.

  • Documentation: Ensure that all official documents and records are properly stored and accessible.

  • Meeting Preparation: Assist in the preparation and distribution of meeting agendas and materials.

  • Compliance: Ensure the organization complies with relevant legal and regulatory requirements regarding documentation and record-keeping.

  • Support: Provide administrative support to the President and other Board members as needed.

Role of Members Invited to Sit on the Board

Board members are essential to the success of the organization. Their collective expertise and dedication ensure that the organization remains focused on its mission, operates efficiently, and achieves its strategic objectives.

General Overview: Board members play a critical role in the governance and strategic direction of the organization. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that the organization fulfills its mission and operates effectively. Board members bring diverse skills, perspectives, and experiences to the table, which are essential for making informed decisions and driving the organization forward.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Governance and Oversight:

  • Mission Alignment: Ensure that the organization’s activities and strategies are aligned with its mission and goals.

  • Policy Development: Participate in the creation and approval of policies that guide the organization’s operations.

  • Compliance: Ensure the organization complies with all legal and regulatory requirements.

  1. Financial Stewardship:

  • Budget Approval: Review and approve the annual budget and financial statements.

  • Financial Oversight: Monitor the organization’s financial health, including reviewing financial reports and ensuring proper financial controls are in place.

  • Fundraising: Support and participate in fundraising efforts to ensure the organization has the necessary resources to achieve its goals.

  1. Strategic Planning:

  • Vision and Strategy: Contribute to the development and approval of the organization’s strategic plan.

  • Evaluation: Regularly assess the organization’s performance against its strategic goals and make adjustments as needed.

  1. Advocacy and Representation:

  • Ambassadorship: Act as an ambassador for the organization, promoting its mission and work within the community.

  • Networking: Leverage personal and professional networks to support the organization’s initiatives and objectives.

  1. Board Participation:

  • Meeting Attendance: Attend and actively participate in all board meetings and relevant committee meetings.

  • Preparation: Come prepared to meetings, having reviewed all materials in advance.

  • Decision-Making: Engage in thoughtful and informed decision-making processes.

  1. Support and Supervision:

  • Executive Leadership: Provide support and supervision to the executive director or CEO, including participating in performance evaluations.

  • Mentorship: Offer guidance and mentorship to staff and volunteers as appropriate.

  1. Continuous Improvement:

  • Board Development: Participate in ongoing board training and development activities to enhance governance skills.

  • Self-Assessment: Engage in regular self-assessment and evaluation to improve board performance and effectiveness.

Personal Attributes:

  • Commitment: Demonstrate a strong commitment to the organization’s mission and values.

  • Integrity: Act with integrity and in the best interest of the organization at all times.

  • Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other board members, staff, and volunteers.

  • Leadership: Exhibit leadership qualities and the ability to inspire others.