Meeting June 9, 2011


North Yarmouth Business Association
Toddy Brook Golf Club Meeting Room

Minutes

Attendance Thaddeus Day, Margie Hansel, Andy Walsh, Bruce Crockett, Marilyn Matthews, Michael Babin, Janice Selig
Presentation Margie Hansel is Co-Owner with her husband Turner of Hansel’s Orchard, a “Pick Your Own” apple orchard on Sweetser Rd in North Yarmouth. Originally part of the Toddy Brook Farm owned by Captain Sweetser, the orchard has 135 trees that have been there since the 1930s. Due to the diligent stewardship of the Hansel family, the apple crop is unique and hearty. Margie explained the tasks necessary to produce a great apple harvest from pruning late January to weekly spraying operations throughout summer. She also discussed the problems that can befall an apple orchard and seriously affect a crop, such as mites, scab and insects. They maintain their own beehives, work generously with cooperatives and food pantries, and provide byproducts like applewood for smoking fish or meats. Hansel’s Orchard is open Wednesday afternoons and weekends beginning just after Labor Day each year.
Introduction Members each gave one minute intro of their firms. Newly attending was Bruce Crockett from Complete Tree Service. Bruce outline the tree, maintenance, and wood business he does in the local area, and intends to become a member.
Discussion With the end of our year approaching, talk of any needed change of officers was brought up. Dale Burnell was not in attendance, but all other officers agreed they would remain in their positions. Pending agreement from Dale, a motion was made to maintain the existing slate of officers, however a quorum was not in attendance therefore this item will be addressed at the July meeting. 

Marilyn Matthews agreed to ask Susan Copp to be one of the site administrators to be trained by Tina Burnell, Thad Day and Janice Selig agreed to train as backup. Thad has completed the website intro and it is now posted on the site. Andy Walsh’s daughter took photos for the site which Andy will send to Tina Burnell.

We discussed Thad Day’s renovation of office space, which markedly reflects the NYBA goal. Thad belongs to the group, member Eric Bowdoin, Bowdoin Excavation, did the digging, member Janice Selig provided alternate parking for Thad, member Marilyn Matthews insured the building! The new section will be handicapped accessible, a new conference room will be built, and Thad has leased space on the second floor to two therapists. Our business community is growing!

Thad also encouraged attendees to try to make the next Town meeting. Important topics will be the Memorial School Project, the Budget, and the fees being assessed by Cumberland for parks and recreation programs.

Reports Treasurer, Andy Walsh reported balance in our account of $930. We have one outstanding obligation to Tina Burnell of $100. Marilyn Matthews advised that dues renewal invoices  were emailed/mailed to all members on May 18th. To date 11 members have renewed. On 6/9/11 reminder emails were sent to remaining members. 

Minutes of the meeting held May 12, 2011 were reviewed and approved.

Andy Walsh of Fat Andy’s Hardwoods will be the speaker at next meeting to be held July 14, 2011.

An NYBA Social Hour will take place at Toddy Brook Golf Club on Thursday June 16th at 5:00pm! We encourage ALL members and guests to come and meet each other! Come spread the word about how NYBA can help your local business grow!

Meeting adjourned at 8:05 AM

Respectfully submitted: Marilyn Matthews, Secretary