Michigan Maple Syrup Association Board of Directors’ Meeting
Tuesday, May 7, 2002

The Board of Director's met May 7, 2002 at the Doherty Hotel in Clare at 6:00 P.M. President Haigh called the meeting to order and began with a round table crop report. Reports varied from low to fairly good to excellent. Pres. Haigh also reported that poor weather affected sales at the Vermontville Festival held the last weekend of April.

The Secretary's report was approved as printed in the Newsletter. The Treasurer's report was distributed and approved. Larry commented about the winter meeting registrations. There was a big walk-in registration. Attendance, however, was about 45 people less than last year.

Larry had no report on NAMSC, as there hasn't been a meeting since last October. Mary Douglass was not in attendance to report on the IMSI. She had just attended the IMSI meeting, which did not permit her return in time for our Board meeting.

Craig Arnold discussed the Fall Tour, which is scheduled for the Boyne City, East Jordan area. Names of potential visits were discussed. There was also discussion about trying to organize the fall 2003 tour in the U.P. This may result in a two-day tour due to traveling time.

Roger VandeBunte discussed the status of the web Site. The person designing the site has not met our timing requirements but has assured Roger that it would be functional by the end of May. Once the site is approved, we will owe the person $2,000. The site would then be hosted for $15.00 per month. Maintenance would be additional. There are many outdated items on the current web site. Roger mentioned items he would like to have added and suggested that Board members be assigned to add and delete important data.

Larry reviewed the dates and location for the NAMSC meeting in October in New Hampshire. Ron Thomas indicated that the bus tour information was in the last Newsletter and that there hadn't been any responses to date.

The topic of Promotion followed. The pamphlet “IT'S SPRING” needs updating and possibly a change in the cover. The Sugarhouse brochure was paid for by the producers listed, but the brochure was not successful. Cathi Bates addressed the cost of shipping of sale items. The current rate is $3.00. Since there have been several price increases in postage, it was moved and seconded that the shipping charge for Association merchandise be increased to $4.50.

There was discussion regarding the 2003 winter meeting. Topics and speakers were reviewed. The Honored member was reviewed. It was decided to put an article in the next Newsletter regarding the criteria for the Honored person and invite members to nominate candidates.

Cathi Bates reviewed the expense of printing and mailing the Newsletter. She has been paying the expenses, and then submitting for reimbursement. This has been a difficult financial arrangement for Cathi. It was moved and seconded that advance funds of $700.00 be given Cathi for printing and postage. Funds would be replaced with actual expenditure reports.

A discussion followed regarding funds in our CD accounts and how they can be used to benefit membership. Suggestions included: 1) More guest speakers at winter meeting, 2) Reduce the price of fall or winter tour, 3) Use a bus trip for 2003 UP fall tour, 4) Host a future NAMSC meeting, 5) Have a web-site demonstration at the winter meeting.

Ron Thomas informed the Board regarding a discussion he had with a candidate running for a State Representative position. Ron and the candidate reviewed the state requirements and fees for producers. The candidate is in agreement that the law should be changed and is willing to work with MMSA to do so. It would be helpful if he is elected.

Larry attended the commodity executive meeting, which meets quarterly. The State early retirement program is heavily affecting DNR. MDA is not being hit as hard. The retirements will greatly affect services.

Next Board Meetings: Saturday, September 28, 2002 at Fall Tour
Wednesday, November 6, 2002 at Doherty Hotel

Meeting adjourned at 9:27 PM

Respectfully submitted,
Jean Maday, Secretary