ABA header
June/July 2008

Tuesday, August 5
Early Networking 6:30 to 7 p.m.

ABA meeting 7 p.m. at the Library
66 Front Street (downstairs, via side door)
Meetings are free of charge, and are open to all business owners, executives, and managers

After Hours Networking &
Ice Cream Social sponsored by the ABA

Presentations/Speakers:

  • Cheri Vallone from Interfaith Hospitality Network will be presenting about her organization, which mobilizes community resources and volunteers to help families who have lost housing through illness or job loss.
  • Dianna Hopper will lead a panel discussion on “Balancing Work and Home.”

If any members are interested in giving a presentation at future ABA meetings, please contact the officers at officers@ashlandbusinessassociation.com.

Proposed Zoning Changes
Proposed changes to Ashland's zoning laws could significantly affect home-based businesses. The “Zoning Committee” has been meeting since April 2008 with a noted land-use attorney to develop a new draft of the by-laws for later approval by the Planning Board at public hearings and Town Meeting.

A public meeting to discuss this draft is planned for Tuesday, August 26, 2008, at 7:00 p.m. at the Ashland Community/Senior Center, on West Union Street. if you have any questions, contact Town Planner Stephen Kerlin at 508-881-0100-ext 651. As more details become available, we will do our best to keep you informed.

Upcoming ABA Sponsored Event:

Thursday, October 2nd: ABA Golf Tournament at Marlborough Country Club
– The planning committee members are Bob DePeron, David Teller, Ed Furey, Teri Wysor, Peter Klay, Steve Levine,
Katie Vinter, and Lindsey Douglas. They can use some more volunteers. You do not have to be a golfer to work on this project. For more information contact Bob DePeron at VP@AshlandBusinessAssociation.com

Upcoming Community Sponsored Events:

Saturday/Sunday, August 23 & 24, from 12 to 4: Advertising Opportunity! Motorcycle stunt team sponsored by the Ashland Police Department -- a two-day event at the Middle School with 300-400 visitors per day expected. Funds raised go to the Ashland Child Safety program taught in the schools. Vendors can participate for $50 for one day or $75 for two days. Bring your own table. If interested, contact Bob Lindsey at 508-233-9844 or tsrel@rcn.com.

Membership Committee
Dianna Hopper, chair of the Membership Committee, needs a few volunteers to help grow our member base and increase member participation. Contact Dianna at Dianna@ashlandbusinessassociation.com.

New Member
Join us in welcoming Carolyn McGee of Ashland Pet Concierge.

Quote
"Sometimes if you want to see a change for the better, you have to take things into your own hands."
-
Clint Eastwood