Newsletter 08/22/2008

Last Meeting Date: 8-22-08

Guests: Marcos Guerero, Corey Wondra and Martha Mayleu Boy Scouts

Fun with the Sergeants:

The Sergeants started the morning by fining late arrivals, Duke Wiggins, Jim Kicklighter and Dennis Reiser.

Guy Gann was fined $1.00 for being on first place team at the AMBUCS Golf Tourney. Jim Seitnater was fined for not knowing about the downtown event. Curtis Mitchell and Pam Brooks were fined for a renewal membership (gone too long). Everyone who did not have an invitation card was fined a buck.

Ward Davis had the TUIT and as usual he had a long list of friends to acknowledge, starting with Larry Sloan who waved from the flower bed. The TUIT also got Brad Thompson, Curtis Mitchell and Steve Harmon but this writer is not sure why. Preston Clark was fined for being seen in the fruit aisle at Dillons. Ward felt that the TUIT would love to go on vacation so he presented it to Stan Macgirvin who is headed to Las Vegas.

Curtis Mitchell bought a fine to brag about the upcoming change at the hospital (renaming and new branding). He also encouraged everyone to attend the celebration, the first Tuesday after Labor Day.

Duke Wiggins announced ice cream would be unloaded Labor Day morning at 7:30 am.

Al Strecker won the drawing for the 2nd slot on the TECH Tournament Foursome. He then had a lively auction for the slot and Brad Thompson bought the ticket with his top bid of $20.00.

Jay Pitzer announced that regarding membership, we all need to carry the AMBUCS TUIT and invite new members. He explained that anyone bringing in a new member will receive apparel from Mainstreet Menswear (AMBUCS). He also suggested recruiting new members at the ice cream booth by getting names and addresses.

Al advised that business cards will be stamped during the next two weeks.

Fred needs more folks to step up for the ice cream booth. Ward Davis asked that anyone who could help with the cleaning of the ice cream booth be there this coming Monday at 5:00 to 5:30 pm.

Program:

Tom Stanton introduced Boy Scouts guests; Marcos Guerrero, Corey Wondra and Martha Mayleu. Mr. Guerrero explained that scouting in Hutchinson is very healthy. He explained that the purpose of their presentation was to illustrate that the Boy Scouts encourage boys with disabilities to be a part of their organization. Martha shared with the group just how important scouting is to her son. She mentioned how it helps his confidence. She also told us how BSA is flexible in their requirements for the disabled boy. Corey then spoke about his son, with Downe Syndrome who is a Life Scout and will soon become an Eagle Scout. Corey explained how wonderful scouting has been for his son. Tom closed the program by explaining that the other boys also learn and grow by have scouts with disabilities in their troop.

Drawings:

50/50 POT WINNER: Lee Gleason – $28

NEWSLETTER QUESTION WINNER: No question published

Newsletter Question for August 29th:

AMBUCS Magazine is published how many times a year? Answer – 4

Newsletter 08/15/2008

HUTCHINSON AMBUCS

Guests: Lynn Kiker Director – Department of Aging and Public Transportation

Karen Vidricksen District 5 Governor

Fun with the Sergeants:

Again this week the sergeants got into most everyones wallet; all no shows at the ice cream booth cleanup evening were fined. Bob Bush could not name Union Valleys mascotcost him $1. Pat Fallon fined because bank employee did not ask about AMBUCS. Bill Long $1, nice job of selling jacket but did not mention AMBUCS. Jim Kicklighter $1, late. Doc Powers had the TUIT; Jay Pitzer fined for not returning Docs calls. Al Strecker paid $1 even though Doc forgot to fine him. TUIT went to Ward Davis.

Jay Pitzer bought a fine to promote Blue Dragon card.

The Board recommended gift of $1,000 to the Prairie Independent Living Resource Center in support of Disability Mentoring Day. Bob Bush moved we suspend the rules and vote. Suspension of the rules was approved and the motion to accept the Boards recommendation was approved. Al reported that at the District meeting, Hutchinson club received Attendance Award.

Al reminded everyone of Regional Convention in Salina on Sept 25th Sept 27th, and encouraged members to consider attending. You should have received a mailing from the Noon Network Chapter, but contact Al or Scott if you have questions.

D. G. Karen & Al are trying to put together a district fun day for later this year.

Old Business: Jeff Brewer reported on the very successful Golf Scramble last week. 26 potential members joined 20 members for the outing. Members were encouraged to invite their guests to breakfast.

Fred Conner announced that he still needs more volunteers for the Ice Cream Booth at the Fair.

ONLY 3 WEEKS UNTIL THE FAIR, SO SIGN UP NOW!

Program:

Mark Treaster introduced guest speaker, Lynn Kiker, Diretor of Department of Aging and Public Transportation. Lynn gave a very informative talk about the history, services provided and future plans of the department.

Department was founded in 1975 with 1 mill levy.

Services include, information and referral system, in home assistance, Medicare and Medicaid information, evaluate home and access needs.

Councils elders about supplemental insurance, Long Term Care Insurance.

Supports 9 centers in the area, quarterly.

Transportation, support for seniors and people with disabilities.

1999 reviewed grant for transportation study.

2000 established fixed route for RCAT.

Lynn was very proud to announce that the Department of Aging and Public Transportation is now all under one roof. Lynn reported that fuel costs have increased $3,000 a month. Also ridership has increased 12% since March, she feels largely because of gas prices. Lynn reported: 70% of income is from Federal and State and approximately $100,000 is collected in fares. Currently the average is 400 rides per day, tracked by driver and an electronic device on each bus.

Drawings:

50/50 POT WINNER: Bill Long – $25

Drawing for 1st Tech Golf Team Player Jeff Brewer

Newsletter Question: Doc Powers forgot the answer and the question!

Newsletter 08/08/2008

HUTCHINSON AMBUCS

HELP OUT THE SERGEANT:

Did anyone show up at the Town Club last Friday? If you didnt leave your $1 in the planter in the parking lot, bring it with you Friday and fess up.

THE RESULTS OF THE GOLF SCRAMBLE:

1st Place, Guy Gann, Dustin Gann, Jeff Pelischek, Mike Runge, 11 under par, 61.

2nd Place, Brad Thompson, Troy Thode, Mark Yates, Lou Morrales, 10 under par, 62.

3rd Place, Lee Gleason, Ward Davis, Bob Harris, 9 under par, 63. The Team of Bill Long, Vern Powers, Glenn Miller, and Steve St. Laurent also had a 63, but lost in a play off of the combined score for holes 16, 17, 18.

Last Place, Brenda Janda, Patty Hendrickson, Teresa Tallant, Tammy Totland, 8 over par, 80.

Longest drive on Hole #8 for the Men Jarin Berger a guest of Chuck Peterson.

Longest drive on Hole #8 for the Women Tammy Totland a guest of Brenda Janda.

Longest putt on Hole #16 Brad Thompson.

Closest to the pin on Hole #13 Mike Campbell a guest of Greg West.

We had a total of 20 members with 26 guests playing in the tournament, 46 total players, & 12 teams.

Next Friday (8/15), we will start selling tickets and drawing for places on the AMBUC Golf Team playing in the TECH Golf Tournament that will be on September 22.

ANOTHER AMBUC LOOSES A FAMILY MEMBER:

Randy Hendersons father passed away Tuesday evening. No details are known at this time; however Al will have will have more info on Friday morning. Please keep Randy, Linda and their whole family in your prayers.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

At this weeks meeting, Jeff B and Steve H will start selling tickets and drawing for places on the AMBUC Golf Team playing in the TECH Golf Tournament that will be on September 22.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK:

When is National Amtryke Month? Its on the National AMBUC website and you should know how to get there by now.

Newsletter 07/25/2008

HUTCHINSON AMBUCS

GUESTS:

Dr. Bruce Klosterhoff, our program for today

FUN WITH THE SERGEANTS:

Sgts Knipp and Hendrickson worked their magic again this week. Noticing an abundance of black shirts in the group today, they declared today Black Shirt Friday and fined Al S, Preston C, Chuck P, and Randy Hendrickson. Also included was Greg W, whose navy blue shirt apparently qualified. President Al returned from the National Convention with a few trinkets to sell. The theme of the convention was Magic, so Scott P paid $1 for a whistle, Pat Fallon got a Big Red Nose, Tim D and Jim K both got motorcycle manuals. Rumor has it that there may be more exciting items to sell at upcoming meetings. Randy Henderson ratted on Mark T for being at the Legislative Forum last week and answering many questions, but not mentioning AMBUCS. Mark came right back at the sheriff for doing the same thing. Dan P returned with the TUIT, who was quite disappointed with the time spent with Dan. Apparently Dan got his travel itineraries mixed up. He is going to the Greek Isles this coming week without the TUIT. Dan fined Darren W, Jay P, Diane S, and Doyle E for various oversights, then passed it on to GUY GANN. How exciting! Instead of nude beaches, the TUIT gets to spend the week being a ball marker. Maybe Sgt Knipp can take a poll on whether Guy will keep it additional week to use at the golf scramble.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

President Al gave a brief report on the National Convention. The meeting was well attended, supporting the theory that future conventions be held in areas where local chapters are located, instead of big-time convention destinations. Spring Roundup Awards were presented to Pat Fallon for introducing Dave Burton to AMBUCS and Randy Hendrickson for signing up Michelle and Darran Slack. As a result of concentrating on increasing membership, the club earned Blue Chip honors for the second year in a row. The club was named an Honor Chapter, missing the Superior designation by just a few points. Jeff B reported on the status of the Annual Golf Scramble scheduled for August 8th at the Highlands. 29 golfers are registered to date, so we could use a few more players. Please make sure you advise Jeff or Steve if you have donations for prizes. The Fair is almost upon us, so work sign up schedules are going around at each meeting. The committee is asking each member to step up for 4 slots. Sign up early to have your choice of days and times.

PROGRAM:

Dr. Bruce Klosterhoff recently retired from the Horizons Mental Health Center and was encouraged by his wife to find something to fill his time besides sitting around at home. Being aware of a physician placement service, he applied and was located in Auckland, New Zealand for several months last fall. He shared some of the pictures taken while there, and filled us in on some basic info about the islands. The first thing he discovered was that the world is round and Australia is not a ferry ride to the east, but about 1,400 miles. There went the planned one day outing to the land down under. New Zealand is two islands populated by around 4 million people congregated in a few large cities, of which Auckland is the largest. The population consists of about 15% native Polynesian and 85% descendents of Great Brittan. Over the last century these two very diverse cultures have learned to co-exist in harmony, while preserving each culture’s uniqueness. With lots of water available readily available, popular recreational activities mostly revolve around water sports (sailing, swimming) and being active in the outdoors. Popular sports include cricket, rugby, Australian football, and soccer, although the Klosterhoffs did find a professional basketball game to attend. Their economy is fairly diverse and includes lots of ranching (sheep, deer). Dr. Klosterhoff was very interested in viewing how the socialized medical services function. The system is a combination of government supported insurance and private insurance. The reality seemed to be that the poorest of residents relied on socialized services, while those who could afford private insurance did so. Those with private coverage received service much quicker and had access to more services and high tech equipment, things we take for granted under our current system. Overall, the Klosterhoffs found the people to be very open and helpful and the geography to be quite beautiful.

DRAWINGS:

The 50/50 drawing resulted in Peggy M becoming $17 richer. Dwight W answered the question of the week correctly the website lists 22 members as being Big Hats.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK:

Who is the current AMBUCS National President, and in what city does he/she reside? Go to our website, find the link to the National AMBUCS website and click on it. While youre out there, take a look at their newly upgraded site.

Newsletter 07/18/2008

HUTCHINSON AMBUCS

GUESTS:

Rita Joy Campbell of Executive Realtors, guest of Larry Sloan, and our newest member to be sworn in at the next meeting. Vicki Foss, representing the Ulster Project in Hutchinson, guest of John Knipp. And Colby Davis, guest of Ward.

FUN WITH THE SERGEANTS:

Sgts Knipp and Hendrickson had a light load to impart this week. Bob Bush suggested to Sgt Knipp mid-week that a good, cheap fine would be a re-up tax on him. That was collected, along with an additional $1 for being dumb enough to suggest that the Sergeant levy a fine on oneself. Pat Fallon got hit with a re-up tax even though he has been rather regular recently (in attendance, that is) At least he didnt end up with the TUIT this time. Preston C was not granted a waiver just because VP Rick M chose to start the meeting at 7:00, not 7:07 when Preston arrived. Did anybody see Mark Treaster in the HutchFest parade? The Sgt did, and not one sign or handout said anything about AMBUCS. More campaign expenses for Rep Treaster. Jay P was fined for discussing BUSINESS at an American Business Club meeting, and this editor had to pay because he cant write and eat at the same time, so just chooses to make things up. Last, but certainly not least, Vern Doc Powers will celebrate his 84th birthday on Monday the 21st. Another chance for a group sing.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Dont forget to sign up for the annual Golf Scramble on August 8th. A signup sheet is going around at each meeting, but you can contact Jeff Brewer or Steve Harmon to register yourself and guests. So far they have enough for 7 teams, but the more the merrier. Deadline for registration is Monday the 4th of August. We will meet at the Highlands at our regular breakfast time (thats 7:00 for Mr. Clark, with golf to follow. Plan to spend the morning with the best civic group in town.

PROGRAM:

Vicki Foss has been a part of the Ulster Project ever since she and her family hosted a teen from Ireland. She just fell in love with the program and has even accompanied a group of US teens to Ireland one summer. Patricia Mccooe is the adult in charge of this years team, and on behalf of team members Jonny Hampton and Phillip Hamill, gave a review of this years activities and an overview of how the Ulster has affected life in Northern Ireland. The program is in its 9th year of exchanging young men and women from the US and Northern Ireland for a month each summer, giving both sides an opportunity to observe the similarities and differences in their living environments. For generations Northern Ireland experienced separation by religious affiliation. Protestant and Catholic families did not live in the same district, did not socialize or attend the same schools, and violence was an everyday occurrence. As a result of this project, young people are breaking down these barriers and discovering a way to live in harmony. The US teens get to experience the close-knit family life in Ireland, a function of the importance church and limited mobility in Ireland. If you are interested in becoming a host family for next years team, contact Vicki, or John Knipp. Thanks to Vicki and the Ulster Project for a great program.

DRAWINGS:

The 50/50 pot was won by Guy Gann, who felt no pressure to donate it to the Ulster Project.

The Newsletter Question of the Day opportunity went to Steve Conard, who had no idea what the question was, much less the answer.

THIS WEEKS QUESTION:

According to our website, how many Big Hat Members does our club have? You will find the answer by clicking on Members Only, logging on, and counting the Big Hats. How easy is that? If you dont know how to log on as a member contact Bob Bush or myself.

Newsletter 07/11/2008

HUTCHINSON AMBUCS

GUESTS:

Rita Campbell of Realty Executives, guest of Larry Sloan & Aaron Powers, guest of Tony Powers

FUN WITH THE SERGEANTS:

Sgts Knipp and Hendrickson had a slow week. They picked up $1 from Peggy McConnaughy for showing up late. Also fined President Al for his e-mail to the Budman. It seems we have a web coordinator instead of a webmaster now that Bob B has taken that responsibility cause our web site is so easy even a cave man can do it. Sgt Knipp tried to ring out before recognizing Brenda J, the carrier of the TUIT for the last 2 weeks. She reached a new high (or low, depending on how one looks at it) by expanding the scope of finable actions to almost anything. She fined the REAL Sheriff Randy H for not being recognized by whoever was driving the POLICE car she passed. She fined this editor for not giving a heads up to a former Krause employee who now works for Good Samaritan. She fined Darren W, Jay P, and Dan P for not keeping her informed on market opportunities. And she fined Doyle E for not recognizing her when she pulled over for a recent Elliott funeral procession. She then paid her $1 and passed the Wicked Washer to DAN P, who mumbled something about taking it to the Greek Isles. The TUIT looked real excited as it left the meeting for another nice trip with Dan, this time to the nude beaches instead of the frozen tundra of Alaska.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

President Al and President-Elect Scott will be leaving this week for Rogers, AR to attend the National Convention.

Have a great time and bring back those awards. Guess that leaves Rick M in charge of the next meeting. Come and make sure he gets the meeting started on time. Guest Rita Campbell completed her membership application and will become our newest member. Hey Rick, have you memorized the installation ceremony yet?

Jeff B reported on the status of the Annual Golf Scramble scheduled for August 8th at the Highlands. Fees will be $43 per person, which includes a cart to share, 2 mulligans, and a Highlands gift certificate for a future round of golf for $15. Breakfast will be served at 7:00, with tee times beginning at 8:00. The driving range and practice greens will be available at no extra charge Turn your reservation and/or teams into Jeff or Steve H by August 4th. Sign up sheets are available at each meeting or from Jeff and Steve. Dont miss this great opportunity to bring friends to complete your foursome, and let them see what a fun bunch of AMBUCS we are.

PROGRAM:

Dave Burton, one of our newest members, shared his vocation with us. He is one of the few licensed and certified athletic trainers in the state of Kansas. He has been employed for 2 years by Pinnacle Sports Medicine and Orthopaedics and serves as the Head Trainer for Hutchinson High School athletics. He graduated from Fort Hayes State and received his masters from the University of Northern Iowa. and served as the Head Trainer and Chairperson for the Training program at the University of Colorado for 16 years. During his tenure at U of CO, he worked with Bill McCartney, who built the Buffalos into a national football power, winning a share of an NCAA Division 1A National Championship in the mid-90s. He also served in a similar capacity for the University of Washington before coming to Hutchinson to join Pinnacle. He managed to annoy both KU and K-State fans with several stories. The goal of his program at Pinnacle is to evaluate, treat, and train high school athletes on how to prevent injuries. He stressed that he loved his job and believes God was leading him each time he made a career move. We are fortunate to have him in Hutchinson working with our young athletes and as an enthusiastic AMBUC.

DRAWINGS:

The 50/50 pot was won by Darren W. The newsletter question stumped Scott P, AGAIN. Thats 2 weeks in a row.

He wont even get a chance next week, since he will be in Rogers, AR at National.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK:

What adjective is used to describe the Big Hat Club according to our web site?

Newsletter 06/27/2008

HUTCHINSON AMBUCS

GUESTS:

Dane Power, guest of Dan Power (his Dad and his boss) & Mary Hemmings of Hutchinsons Historic Fox Theatre, guest of Darren Wicks

FUN WITH THE SERGEANTS:

Once again Mr. Knipp and Mr. Hendrickson played the roles of Mr. Mean and Mr. Rotten. The Mitchell Brothers (Rick and Curtis) were fined for being late. Those who worked the Casino Night last Saturday were recognized; those who did not were fined. Once again, it pays to volunteer. John then looked in his bag of tricks and pulled out his list of politically correct definitions for common, everyday words. In keeping with this editors high standards, most of them did not bear repeating. However, one did stick in my mind. The politically correct definition of a 50 cent hooker is a low cost provider. Might have been useful in the 1800s. Thanks to the sergeants for more knowledge imparted. The TUIT traveled with Mr. Macgirvin this week and he managed to stick Eric S, Dan P, Paul B, and Jeff B

for $1 each, than passed it on BRENDA. Be on the lookout a blonde bearing gifts the next two weeks.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

The Community Service will hold a short meeting at 6:00 on Friday, July 11th, prior to the 6:15 Board meeting. This unusual scheduling is a result of our cancelling next Fridays meeting (July4th). So sleep in, but if you feel like visiting the Town Club on the 4th, please shove a note with your name under the door for Mr. Knipp. Jeff B reported that the annual Golf Scramble is shaping up nicely. I have been requested to insert this whiney reminder that the Social Committee has NO BUDGET FOR THE YEAR, so donate something you might like to win if you could just play golf.

PROGRAM:

Darren W introduced Mary Hemmings, Executive Director of Hutchinsons Historic Fox Theatre. Mary visits us at least annually to keep us updated on the coming attractions and the continuing growth in programs for all ages. The 2008-2009 season will be highlighted by this years Gala on Saturday April 18, 2009 with a live performance by Grammy award-winning Blood, Sweat, and Tears. Other performances include the Glenn Miller Orchestra on Valentines Day 2009, a live theatre presentation of To Kill a Mockingbird, and political comedian Mark Russell. Returning this season will be the Fox Family Series on Sunday afternoons and the By the Bus program, which provides students with opportunities to experience live theatre. Recent awards bestowed upon the Fox and its programs include making the list of the 8 Wonders of Reno County, the list of the 8 Architectural Wonders of Kansas, the National Register of Historic Places, the State Register, and is considered a regional landmark. The Fox partners with many local and area programs including the ArtisTree, the Hutchinson Symphony Association, the Hutchinson Theatre Guild, Phyls Studio of Voice, the Salt Minors, and the Sweet Adelines. Mary has been with the Fox for 6 years and with the help of her Board has built a very successful, thriving institute for the arts in Hutchinson. What a great example of looking the naysayers in the eye and just gitten her done.

DRAWINGS:

The 50/50 pot contained $27 and now belongs to Scott Potucek

The Newsletter Question of the Day opportunity went to—-Scott Potucek, who left the money on the table. Next meetings question is What is the date of this years Golf Scramble? Hintits on the web site calendar.

Newsletter 06/24/2008

HUTCHINSON AMBUCS

NEWSLETTER for Friday, June 20, 2008

GUESTS:

Marci Kauffman of Tech, Inc and Amanda Buoy of the Boys & Girls Club of Hutchinson, our program for today.

FUN WITH THE SERGEANTS:

Once again Sgt Knipp called on Randy Hendrickson to be the toilet-carrying deputy. The front-page headline in todays Hutchinson News referred to Kansass new integration laws and how many Kansans had lost their government sponsored health insurance as a result of the recent changes. So just for fun, the Sgt decided to see if members could answer questions from the test given to immigrants to determine their eligibility for visas in the U.S. He posed several of those questions to Paul Brown, Esq. (attorney at law). After Paul answered 3 questions correctly, it was decided that this game was not going to play well (collect fines) and the Sgt moved on to something else. Scott Potucek (the manager of plant safety for Sunoco) paid for a harrowing experience reported by Sgt Knipp as he tried to recycle some paper. It sounded as if he was allowed to wander around Sunocos recycling area without proper PIP (personal injury protection). Scotts boss, Jim K, was quite impressed. Also, Guy G was cited for driving around 60 mph on Avenue A Street. Apparently seeing our AMBUC sheriff did not slow him down one bit. BUDMAN Bush returned with TUIT and fined the following errant members: Steve C, Steve H, Terry B, Guy G, Greg W, Curtis M, Jim S, Don G, Pat Fallon, Diane S, Brad T, Chuck P, and Stan M. The Sgts made copious notes, so if you were not at this meeting, expect double fines this Friday. Hows that for encouraging meeting attendance.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

The two motions placed on first reading were addressed for action. The first motion proposed a $300 contribution to the Early Education Center to help fund a communication device for a client, contingent upon their raising the remaining funds to make the $2,800 purchase. The motion passed. The second motion proposed a $1,000 contribution to Sundance Rehabilitation for their programs aimed at both children and seniors with disabilities. The motion passed. The membership was reminded of the Casino Night project scheduled for Saturday, June 21st. Thanks to those who volunteered to participate in this $1,000 fund-raising project. Bob B, who will be managing our web site this year, asked all members to log on to hutchambucs.com and review their individual member information. Any needed changes should be reported to Bob.

PRAYERS & CONCERNS:

Doug Foss lost his mother yesterday, so please continue to keep Doug and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

PROGRAM:

Those of us who have been around for a while will remember playing a board game based on accumulating property and improvements and charging rent to others who might visit your property. Well, the game is still around and its still called Monopoly. Marci Kauffman and Amanda Buoy presented their joint project to raise funds for both programs. Their game will be called Hutchopoly, and will be sold for $25. Local businesses and organizations are being asked to sponsor property spaces, chance and community chest cards, property deeds, etc. in exchange for advertising that will appear on the playing board and various pieces of the game. The project appears to be a WIN-WIN situation, not only raising funds to replace government programs that are being cut, but promoting community awareness. They encouraged the AMBUCS to participate as an organization, as well as individual business owners and operators. Their goal is to have the games available for sale at the Kansas State Fair, but this will require commitments from sponsors to cover the required investment. Thanks to Marci and Amanda for an excellent program and a great project to promote Hutchinson.

MEETINGS:

There will be a meeting of the Ice Cream Booth Committee on June 27th at 6:15AM at the Town Club. We will be discussing costs and pricing for the 2008 fair.

DRAWINGS:

The 50/50 drawing raised $44, with $22 going to the lucky ticket-holder, Fred Conner. Fred donated his take to the Boys and Girls Club. The question of the week is to name the USERNAME and PASSWORD for the AMBUCS membership web site. If you name is drawn and you answer the question correctly, you take home $10.

Newsletter 06/13/2008

HUTCHINSON AMBUCS

NEWSLETTER for Friday, June 13, 2008

GUESTS: No guests this week. A big do better notice to all!!!

FUN WITH THE SERGEANTS:

Sgt Knipp asked Rudy Hendrickson to carry the toilet this week and a fine job he did. They first made their way to Treasurer Don G who sent us all nice e-mail statements for May. However, most everyone reported receiving TWO e-mails and TWO statements. Nice try, but ineffective way to raise funds. Next, since June 14th (tomorrow) is Flag Day, our industrious Sgt went to the internet and came up with several bits of trivia concerning the U.S. Flag. For instance, how many stripes does our flag have? The answer is 13, one for each of the 13 original colonies. Tom H failed and paid a $1. Dennis R could not name the year the 50th star was added (1960) and paid his $1. And since today is Friday the 13th, we got to play trivia on this subject. Brenda J could not guess or pronounce the technical term for fear of Friday the 13th. I didnt even try to make a record of the correct answer. Doyle E failed to guess how many times Friday the 13th on the 2008 calendar. The answer is 1, but varies from none to 3 year to year. Peggy M paid for being late. The TUIT is still being carried by BOB BUSH, so beware the BUDMAN again this week.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Our Casino Night is set for Saturday, June 21st, at the Town Club. Those working the project plan to show up in white over black dress at around 7:30PM. The project should wind up around 11:00PM.

At the Board Meeting this morning the presentation of 3 Amtrykes was approved, and the membership added their approval at their meeting. Recipients are Marcella McLaughlin, submitted by PT Carol McBride; Rafael Jimenez, submitted by PT Dianna Goebel; and Ebben Miller, who needs an upgrade to a larger tryke, submitted by PT Andrea Veenis. Reported out by committee and the Board was a contribution of $300 to the Early Education Center for a communication device for a client expected to cost $2,800, disbursement dependent upon their ability to raise the rest of the funds. Also, $1,000 is recommended for Sundance Rehabilitation for their programs aimed at both children and senior citizens. Both of these recommendations will be up for second reading this Friday, so please make an effort to be in attendance to cast your vote.

PRAYERS & CONCERNS:

Please continue to keep Jerry Dalton and his family in your prayers. His father is back home and doing better, but concerns on his health continue. Also, Doug Fosss mother has been under Hospice care for the last several weeks and continues to be very weak, so keep Doug, Jill and the whole family in your hearts.

PROGRAM:

Randy Hendrickson introduced our own Doyle Ehling to fill us in on what a funeral director does and what is newsworthy in the mortuary business. Two trends jumped out early in his presentation. The first is pre-planning and all that entails. An increasing number of people are taking the time to work with their loved ones in planning for their final celebration of life and desired resting place. This can involve funding for the cost, but that is not required. The big advantage of pre-planning is taking the load off their loved ones at a time when they are under stress and not prepared to make to required decisions. Several AMBUCS related how effective pre-planning had been as they went through this time of crises. The second trend is the bigger the better concept that is affecting all forms of business from manufacturing to service. Although Doyles employer, Elliott Mortuary, remains family owned and operated , others in Hutchinson are parts of major corporations and have combined with cemeteries and crematoriums to provide a turn-key experience. Doyle enjoys the family environment at Elliotts and supports the familys desire to remain independent, while providing the latest in services to their clients. Thanks to Doyle, and if you enjoyed the program, let Randy H know and he can feature other AMBUCS and their chosen vocations.

DRAWINGS:

The 50/50 drawing raised $44, with $22 going to the lucky ticket-holder, Vern Doc Powers.

The newsletter question was correctly answered by Fred Conner, who left $10 richer. The pot goes back to $5 for the coming meeting.

Newsletter 06/06/2008

HUTCHINSON AMBUCS

NEWSLETTER for Friday, June 6, 2008

GUESTS:

Our only guest this morning was Kelly Curry who teaches at Graber Elementary and will be our program. However, Larry Sloan is kinda like a guest, since we havent seen him at a meeting for one long time. Its great to see you up and motivating again and the lovely cast is a real good reason to wear shorts for a while.

FUN WITH THE SERGEANTS:

John Knipp began his rein of terror by fining everyone in attendance that has NOT been an officer during last year or the current year. Cheap way to build fines, but a great reminder that we all need to step up as leaders in this organization. Thanks to all who have served so ably. Some idiot left his Big Hat at last weeks Big Hat Friday Meeting and in order to keep the auction under control, this editor bid $5 to buy it back. Rick M and Eric S paid for being late, and Jim K failed to add an AMBUC logo to his home for sale sign. One of our newest members, Jerry Regier, carried the TUIT last week. The only member he saw was Jim S, who was not present to pay his fine. Sgt Knipp made a note for the future, and Jerry passed the Tuit on to BOB BUSH. Be sure to contact Bob every time you enjoy a BUD this week.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Our next fundraiser will be Saturday, June 21st for 7:00 to 11:00PM at the Town Club. We will provide a Casino for the Hutchinson Young Professionals. They expect around 150 to be in attendance, and we can help replenish the Big Hat treasury to the tune of $1,000 for its contribution to establishing our new website. Fred C and Duke W will be in charge, so expect a first-rate fun time. Jeff B and Steve H are working toward scheduling our annual Golf Scramble on Friday, August 8th. Keep you ears open as one of our most popular projects unfolds during the next several weeks.

Please keep Jerry Dalton in your prayers. His father is very ill, and Jerry was with him in Wichita this morning.

PROGRAM:

Randy Hendrickson introduced Kelly Curry, our program for this morning. Around this time last year, Kelly visited with the club about raising funds to purchase a therapy dog for use in her classroom at Graber Elementary School. At that time Graber had a number of children with autism, with several being in her class. We had placed one of our first therapy dogs at Graber, and the results had been positive. The club provided $700 to help Kelly achieve her goal, and she promised to give us a report at the end of this school year. The dogs name is OReilly (after commentator Bill OReilly), and he accompanied Kelly to the meeting. He is a mixed breed, mostly golden retriever. He and Kelly bonded immediately, and he follows wherever she goes. He loves to play and is very good with the children. They like to read to him and include him in their activities. While he has only been on the job for a few months, Kelly has seen the overall level of behavior improve within the classroom. OReilly has a very unique diet; he loves to eat crayons, both at school and at home. Kelly reports that she has a very colorful back yard as a result of OReillys diet. Kelly and OReilly will be going to the penitentiary in Ellsworth for additional training in a few months and she is looking forward to integrating OReilly in next falls classes. Sounds like we made a good investment.

DRAWINGS:

This editor got so enamored with the dog that he failed to note the 50/50 pot winner. I do know the amount was $23. So many questions were asked of Kelly that we did not have time for the newsletter question. So, for this Friday you can take home $10 if yourname is drawn and you can identify the newly elected President, First VP, Second VP, Secretary, and Treasurer of our club. Check out the website (http://www.hutchambucs.org/) if you dont know who your leaders are.