New Hamburg Board of Trade Executive Meeting

April 9, 2008

Present: Paul Knowles, Tim Bender, Nigel Gordijk, Ed Lemont, Tom Hinz, Lynne Mackie, Larry Zehr, Doug Brenneman, Terry McIntosh, Audrey Cook

Absent: Dave Seyler

1. Motion made by Larry to accept the minutes of the March 13 executive meeting, second Tom. Motion carried.

2. Paul asked for a short discussion on membership displays at the General Membership meeting. After some discussion it was obvious that all present felt the displays were informative and useful.

3. Finance report from Lynne. To date $13,320.92 has been received in membership fees as well as $5,940.00 in Bridge Bucks following letters sent by Paul. This gives us a current bank balance of $22,311.29.

4. Website: Nigel presented three different homepage designs to the executive. A decision was reached on one of the three that was attractive and could be easily read. On website 2 for members Nigel distributed questionnaires to the executive and asked for their input on what information should be posted for members. All felt this website should be working as soon as possible. Motion to approve website Lynn, second Tom.

5. Quidditch Tournament. Paul reports that the park has been reserved and plans are progressing.

6. The 150th Anniversary Committee is similar in makeup to the Canada Day committee in that it consists of members of various groups throughout New Hamburg. Following a short discussion it was decided that the Board of Trade could run a food tent that day but a decision would be made at a later date. Doors Open will be busy as well throughout the town with information and displays on local heritage.

7. Advertising in Visitor Magazine was discussed and it was moved by Tom, seconded by Terry that we will look at this for their next issue. The executive would like to see our website complete so that any advertising we do can show this address.

8. Our Canada Day liaison Tim, reported that plans for the day are progressing. Any ideas for further ways to make dollars can be referred to him. Duck tickets will be available to members at the May general meeting. Larry will look into the possibility of buying some ducks similar (but different) as the ones used in the race and selling them on that day.

9. At the present time we do not have a liaison with the Downtown Business Association. Tim has volunteered to be that contact person.

10. Paul distributed a sign-up sheet for the golf tournament. Plans are progressing well.

New Business:

11. We have been approached by the Rural Route Studio Tour to advertise in their booklet this summer. Moved by Lynne, second Doug, we will not advertise this year. Carried.

12. There has been a return of $8,060. in Bridge Bucks to Paul. We now have a maximum liability of $3,940 in circulation. A motion was made by Terry to destroy all but $4,000. of the bucks, second Lynne. Carried.

13. It was moved by Terry, second Nigel, that the prizes for the duck race at this year's Canada Day is to be paid in Bridge Bucks. Carried/

14. Gaia's Gardens will continue to care for the welcome to New Hamburg sign and we will pay for the service. They have been very kind to do this work and keep it looking cared for.

15. The flood reached the basement of 121 Huron St. and destroyed some Board of Trade items in our storage area. However, none of the damaged items appeared to have any value they were mainly in the order of old brochures and out of date materials. The Christmas lights had a bath, but survived.

16. The Shopper's Drug Mart project at the corner of 7/8 and Peel was discussed and it was suggested that any individual who wishes may speak to their Township Councilor or go to the Township meeting on Monday Apr. 14 to hear further plans. The Board of Trade, as a whole, is intended in general to support old and new business and economic development in our town.

17. Tom asked about the satellite schools the universities and colleges are putting up in local communities. Could New Hamburg benefit from one of these schools? To be discussed further.

18. Paul gave us a reminder that guests are welcome at our next General Meeting. Lori Lupton of Pelee Island Winery will be our guest, and there will be an introduction to wines, and wine tasting with the meal.

19. Motion to adjourn at 8:PM by Doug, second Ed. Carried.