Newsletter 01/22/2010

Hutchinson Chapter of AMBUCS Editor: Duke Wiggins

Guests: Mark Johnson- JIC Co, Inc, guest of Scott Potucek. Rick Newton City/County Drug Task Force, guest of Randy Henderson

Sergeants Playground: Last week it was announced that we had a new flag and pole donated by Boy Scout Troop 303. Sgt Knipp decided to test just how many members were listening vs. being asleep during the announcement. The following were apparently asleep: Darren W; Dean B; Larry S; and Jeff B. Realizing that this could take all morning, Sgt Knipp recognized President Scott, who had been waving his hand frantically the whole time. Since he made the announcement last week, he was well aware of the donors. People pay attention when the Prez speaks. Duke W paid the fine for whoever misspelled Jeff Tolberts name in some newsletter back when. Congratulations to Doug F, who ratted him out. Jay P used his Membership Moment to train us on how to use an invitation card effectively.

TUITS Time: Sgt Knipp carried both the BIG and Little tuits last week. Both Stan M and Steve H ignored the Tuit during the week, paying $1 for not caring. He passed the Little tuit on to DOUG HOFFMAN, so watch out for Imperial Vending delivery vehicles this week.

Presidents Message: Branding Irons were passed out to Doug F, Larry S, and Jay P for singing up 1 new member each during Fall Branding this year. Preston C will receive his when he decides to show up again. Thanks to their offering the hand of AMBUC fellowship, our chapter was recognized as being 9th in the nation for bringing in new members during Fall Branding. Announcements: Jay P announced that Big Hats will host Steak Night 2 (date TBA at Fridays meeting) at the Knights of Columbus Recreation Area (1200 West 15th). He challenged each member to bring at least 1 guest and break Steak Night 1s record of 8 new members. Once again there will be no charge for steaks and potatoes. Members will once again be asked to provide a side dish or desert. Watch future newsletters for more details. Next Fridays meeting is the day before the annual KU/K-State Basketball matchup. Lets all wear our colors and support our teams. Only those wearing their colors will count toward the team total. The team with the most supporters gets to follow the guests and sergeants through the line. Next Fridays meeting will be hosted by the BIG HATS. The program will feature Pastor Mark Conard of the First Methodist Church. He will present a program on his various mission trips to Africa.

Program: Randy H introduced Rick Nelson, who explained how the City/County Drug Task Force functions. This is a 5 person task force operating with only 3 members at this time. Their task is to investigate drug violations and maintain a database of violators to allow for quick cross-referencing. during investigations. They spend much of their time in vehicles, following up on tips from Confidential Informants. These persons range from former drug violators to concerned citizens who provide information for a variety of reasons ( ranging from revenge and territorial disputes to neighbors concerned for their safety) The most prevalent drugs found in this area are marijuana, crack cocaine, and methamphetamines. It can be home- grown locally, but much of the areas drugs come through Wichita. Another major task for this group informational, such as this mornings meeting getting the word out on the seriousness of the problem in this area.

Drawings: 50/50 went to Doug Foss. I’m sure he spent the $22 on something nice for lovely wife Jill. Newsletter: Dave Shulers name was drawn, but he had already left. Pot goes to $10 next week. This weeks question is: Last falls Steak Night resulted in how many new members?