Going To Burlington

In October, twenty-four members of the Association took a bus trip to Burlington Vermont so we could attend the Annual NAMSC & IMSI Conference. We had a great time getting to know each other, and some of the things we learned... well you just had to be there to appreciate it.

We started our trip with about ten of us getting on the bus in Clare and then it was on to Mason to pick up the rest of the crew. When we crossed into Canada over the Blue Water Bridge, we had to spend a moment or two with the border patrol. They wanted to know if we were all citizens of the US and if we had any weapons on board. We passed that one free and clear.

At the conference, there was a lot to do; tours to sugar bushes and industries, technical sessions covering many topics like the lead issue and small spiles, and a fantastic dinner cruise on Lake Champlain. There was a lot of fun, and many opportunities to learn. Most of the companies you would expect were at the trade show and sharing their newest and best equipment.

On the trip home, we spent the night at Niagara Falls and enjoyed watching the Falls in their evening colors. We all enjoyed the trip so much that on the way home we made the decision to charter a bus trip to the next meeting, which will be in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Debbie Thomas has taken the responsibility of getting the tour put together. The group that went this year is hoping that many more will join us for next year's trip to the NAMSC/IMSI Conference. Watch for more details in later editions of the Newsletter.
Thank you Mary Douglass for putting together the trip.