HUTCHINSON CHAPTER OF AMBUCS

GUESTS: No Guests were present at the Old Fashioned Ice Cream Booth.

THE SERGEANTS SLAUGHTER: Since we did not meet at the Town Club there was no Sergeants time.

THE PRESIDENTS REIGN: President Darren opened the meeting without a bell, but there was an American Flag for the Pledge of Allegiance. As boxes of donuts were passed around, Darren reminded everyone that we will meet back at the Town Club next Friday.

CLUB ANNOUNCEMENTS: Board Meeting next Friday morning (Sept. 14th) at 6:15 a.m. at the Town Club.

PROGRAM: The Ice Cream committee took over to go thru some cost saving techniques, new product available and general procedures for operating the Old Fashioned Ice Cream booth at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. As this is our largest annual fund raiser, it is very important to try to control our waste of product to ensure the maximum amount of profits to be able to provide the funds necessary for our giving budget. If you were not in attendance for the meeting and training, please consult with the manager or assistant manager of the shift you are working to get these very valuable tips for the work you are doing. Our new product developed by the Ice Cream Committee is a Chocolate Dipped Cone. All AMBUC members should give a word of thanks to Jim Jacobs and the rest of the Ice Cream Booth Committee for all of their hard work.

UPCOMING AMBUCS MEETING SCHEDULE & EVENTS:

Sept. 7th thru Sept. 16th Old Fashioned Ice Cream Booth at the KANSAS STATE FAIR

Sept. 14th Meeting will be back at the Town Club. REMINDER TO BOARD MEMBERS Board Meeting at 6:15 a.m.

Sept. 14th PROGRAM: Amanda Bouy (Boys & Girls Club) Grant Writer for New AMBUCS Ice Cream Building

Sept. 21st PROGRAM: TBA

Sept. 28th PROGRAM: TBA

Sept. 29th CASINO NIGHT, mark your calendar now to help with this important Fund Raiser.

Oct. 13th CASINO NIGHT, another opportunity to help the club raise some funds for the Kids.

Nov. 3rd MEMBERSHIP DRIVE STEAK FRY at the Knights of Columbus. Be lining up your guests to attend.

DRAWINGS:

50/50 Pot: No Town Club, no 50/50 pot

Newsletter: No Town Club, no newsletter question, no newsletter drawing

NEWSLETTER QUESTION: Looking back through the archives, the newsletter question is at $10 this Friday.

What flavor of Ice Cream was sold out first at the 2012 Kansas State Fair?

EDITOR: Dennis Reiser

If any AMBUC member has any club news or club announcement that needs to be put into the newsletter, please get me the information in a timely manner.

HUTCHINSON CHAPTER OF AMBUCS

GUESTS: AMBUC guests included Mike McQueen, Chuck Carson, Mimi Meridith, Patty Hendrickson, Stacy Burke, Teresa Tallant, Craig Repke, Duane Heibert along with a couple other ringers invited to play golf on Curtis Mitchells team.

THE SERGEANTS SLAUGHTER: Since we did not meet at the Town Club there was no Sergeants time. One can only hope that the September Sergeant was playing in the golf tournament, as there were plenty of fineable AMBUC moments. (If the September Sergeant was not playing, he could contact this editor, as there is plenty of dirt in my newsletter notes)

THE PRESIDENTS REIGN: President Darren opened the meeting at the Highlands with Duke Wiggins giving the prayer and asking everyone to imagine the American Flag for the Pledge of Allegiance as there was no flag to be found, seems to be a constant theme of offsite meetings. Before proceeding through the meal line, Darren was reminded to have the guests introduced that were invited to play golf in the AMBUC tournament.

CLUB ANNOUNCEMENTS: President Darren announced as a reminder that next week we will meet at the Old Fashioned Ice Cream Booth on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. All members should attend this important meeting, as the Ice Cream committee will present important information and training tips to make our Ice Cream business run smoothly. Fred Conner will also be passing out the gate tickets for the shifts you have signed up for, so please make it a point to attend next weeks meeting.

PROGRAM: The annual AMBUC Golf Tournament was the program of the day. 6 teams/24 golfers spent a beautiful Friday morning on the golf course. Curtis Mitchell captained the 1st place team with a score of 66. Guy Gann captained the 2nd place team with a score of 74. Brenda Jandas team easily outdistanced itself from the pack to bring home the womens division crown with a score of 79. The closest to the pin contest was won by Darren Wicks. The longest putt contests (of which there were two) were won by Jeff Brewer and Duane Heibert. We would like to give a special thanks to our sponsors for this years golf tournament, Luminous Neon (Jeff Brewer), Central Bank & Trust (Pat Fallon), KFSA (Lee Gleason) and Peoples Bank & Trust (John Knipp). Also give a special thanks to Randy Hendrickson and John Knipp for organizing the golf tournament.

MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENT: Jerry Regier asked me to add a note to the newsletter. Hutch Rod Run is looking for volunteers on the weekend of October 5-6-7, 2012. For more information, contact Jerry Regier jerry@hutchrodrun.com or Janet Regier janet@hutchrodrun.com or visit the Rod Run web site at www.hutchrodrun.com.

UPCOMING AMBUCS MEETING SCHEDULE & EVENTS:

Sept. 7th (KANSAS STATE FAIR) – Meeting will take place at the Old Fashioned Ice Cream Booth on the grounds of the Kansas State Fair, 7 a.m.

Sept. 7th thru Sept. 16th Ice Cream Booth at the KANSAS STATE FAIR Work your scheduled shifts as many hands make work light.

Sept. 14th Meeting will be back at the Town Club. REMINDER TO BOARD MEMBERS Board Meeting at 6:15 a.m.

Sept. 14th PROGRAM: Amanda Bouy (Boys & Girls Club) Grant Writer for New AMBUCS Ice Cream Building

Sept. 29th CASINO NIGHT, mark your calendar now to help with this important Fund Raiser.

Oct. 13th CASINO NIGHT, another opportunity to help the club raise some funds for the Kids.

Nov. 3rd MEMBERSHIP DRIVE STEAK FRY at the Knights of Columbus. Be lining up your guests to attend.

DRAWINGS:

50/50 Pot: No Town Club, no 50/50 pot

Newsletter: No Town Club, no newsletter question, no newsletter drawing

NEWSLETTER QUESTION:

Since the AMBUCS will not be meeting at the Town Club until Friday, September 14th, look here in next weeks newsletter for the question.

EDITOR: Dennis Reiser

If any AMBUC member has any club news or club announcement that needs to be put into the newsletter, please get me the information in a timely manner.

HUTCHINSON CHAPTER OF AMBUCS

GUESTS: The AMBUCS were guests of Reins of Hope today, but those in attendance that were not members of the club were Mary Smith, Kristine Dean, Gary Danner, Jim Keever and our guest of honor, Colby Davis.

Kristene Dean is a Certified Instructor for Reins of Hope and has been working part time for them for 9 to 10 years. She really enjoys working with all the riders and volunteers and admits that it is a really great job.

Gary Danner is a volunteer for Reins of Hope. He started volunteering for them about 4 years ago when his daughters special needs class was riding in a class. He admitted that he was a little bit bored the first time he volunteered here as he was referred to as a leader and a feeder, but after talking with his daughter, she told him that his time there was not about you. He said that something clicked, and since then he is happy with his role there and now he has a lot of fun and a lot of laughs.

Jim Keever has been a volunteer with Reins of Hope for 9 years. He started volunteering shortly after his wife passed away to give him something to do. He told me that the Bible says that people should do for others without looking for a return, but admits that he probably gets as much good out of his volunteering as he puts into it. Jim also helps teach Horsemanship at HCC. Jim bought his first horse at the age of 18 and has had horses ever since. He says he probably has more horses now than he should. Jim just celebrated his 89th Birthday in July of this year.

Our guest of honor, Colby Davis, was interviewed by this editor prior to the meeting getting started. Colby said We are going to have fun when asked what we were going to do this morning. When asked if he had anything else he wanted to share for the newsletter, believe it or not, Colby was speechless. Colby later told me that he is a big fan of the arena out here.

THE SERGEANTS SLAUGHTER: Since we did not meet at the Town Club there was no Sergeants time. One can only hope that the September Sergeant was in attendance as there were plenty of fineable AMBUC moments.

THE PRESIDENTS REIGN: President Darren was absent so Vice President Dane took charge. Dane rang the meeting to order by tapping on the trash can. Dane reminded those in attendance that next weeks meeting will take place at the Highlands with breakfast at 7 a.m. and golf at 8 a.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was skipped as there was no flag to be found, so the club went straight to the chow line and enjoyed a wonderful breakfast catered by Knackies. The breakfast was enjoyed with the beautiful sound of rain pelting on the metal roof of the Reins of Hope Arena.

CLUB ANNOUNCEMENTS:

AMBUC GOLF TOURNAMENT: John Knipp announced that there were approximately 20 golfers signed up for the tournament next week. He was actively recruiting golfers to play, so if you are not signed up and still would like to play, contact John as soon as possible.

ICE CREAM BOOTH 2012: No announcement was made regarding the shifts that still need to be filled, but one can assume that all the shifts are not spoken for as of yet, so if you have not signed up for your shifts or would like to sign up for another one, I am sure that Fred Conner would be glad to hear from you.

PROGRAM: Ward Davis served as the speaker this morning as a Board member of Reins of Hope. Reins of Hope is a therapeutic horseback riding program which, above all, works to provide individuals with disabilities with a better quality of life. The true therapist is the horse, as its gentle motion stimulates muscles and increases circulation, balance, strength and control. In addition, the riders emotional skills are improved, such as concentration, patience, self-esteem, and interpersonal relationships. Therapeutic riding truly creates a special bond between horse, rider, instructor and volunteers. Reins of Hope is just getting geared back up with classes after having some down time with the heat that we have been experiencing. Reins of Hope is currently serving upwards of 200 students from Reno, Harvey and McPherson counties. Colby began his therapy with some stretching over a stationary barrel horse with Kristene. Colby then walked, with Wards assistance, over to the mounting shoot to mount his therapeutic horse. Colby rode his favorite horse Doc this morning. Colby and Doc took several laps around the arena, with the help of Ward, Kristene, Gary and Jim. Colby even got to wear Jims cowboy hat on a lap around the arena and now will be remembered by those in attendance as Cowboy Colby.

UPCOMING AMBUCS MEETING SCHEDULE & EVENTS:

Aug. 31st (TOWN CLUB CLOSED) Meeting will be at The Highlands, 7 a.m. Breakfast 8 a.m. Golf

Sept. 3rd (ICE CREAM UNLOADING) Our first load of Ice Cream will arrive at the State Fair Booth. The unloading crew (you

know who you are) needs to be there around 7:15 a.m. We have 152 tubs of ice cream coming in. If anyone would

like to join this motley crew, contact Duke at 620-899-2928 or dukewiggins@hotmail.com

Sept. 7th (KANSAS STATE FAIR) – Meeting will take place at the Old Fashioned Ice Cream Booth on the grounds of the Kansas State Fair, 7 a.m.

Sept. 7th thru Sept. 16th Ice Cream Booth at the KANSAS STATE FAIR Work your scheduled shifts as many hands make work light.

Sept. 14th Meeting will be back at the Town Club. REMINDER TO BOARD MEMBERS Board Meeting at 6:15 a.m.

Sept. 29th CASINO NIGHT, mark your calendar now to help with this important Fund Raiser.

Oct. 13th CASINO NIGHT, another opportunity to help the club raise some funds for the Kids.

DRAWINGS:

50/50 Pot: No Town Club, no 50/50 pot

Newsletter: No Town Club, no newsletter question, no newsletter drawing

NEWSLETTER QUESTION:

Since the AMBUCS will not be meeting at the Town Club for the next 2 weeks, look here in future additions of the newsletter for the question.

EDITOR: Dennis Reiser

If any AMBUC member has any club news or club announcement that needs to be put into the newsletter, please get me the information in a timely manner.

HUTCHINSON CHAPTER OF AMBUCS

GUESTS: Ron Macklin, Houston TX Son of Harley Macklin; Kim Moore, United Methodist Health Ministry Fund; Michael Gray, United Methodist Health Ministry Fund

THE SERGEANTS SLAUGHTER: Sergeant Slaughter (Brad Thompson) & Deputy Dog (Jeff Brewer) were back in charge after a short hiatus. Those that were separated from their cash were as follows: Jim Kicklighter, membership renewal; Doyle Ehling, late, birthday, no badge, shortest in the class; Rick Mitchell, laughing at Doyles fines; Mark Treaster, Personal campaign flyers left at the wrong house; Darren Wicks, Presidential Fine & insulting the sergeant before the meeting; All members not helping with the Ice Cream Booth cleanup tomorrow (Aug 18th) were fined; Jim K., Craig J. & Jeff R. were fined for not already signing up to work at the Ice Cream Booth; Anita Warren & Doc Powers were fined for leaving cash on their table for the sergeant to see; The Edward Jones boys in attendance (Dane, Darren & Jay) were fined for Dans radio ad not mentioning AMBUCS; Reta Joy Campbell was fined for arguing with Stan Macgirvin over change from her 50/50 tickets.

Jeff Brewer bought a fine for the rough couple of weeks he has had. Jeff & Pat celebrated their 40th Wedding Anniversary, Jeff celebrated a Birthday, but also Jeffs father passed away. Our sympathies go out to Jeff and his family.

Guy Gann bought a fine for his & Bobbis 82nd Wedding Anniversary (41 years for each of them). Our sympathies go out to Bobbi.

THE PRESIDENTS REIGN: President Darren thanked those that committed to the T-Shirt Project Committee (11 members) and the New Ice Cream Building Committee (14 members). If you have not volunteered for either of these new committees, there is still time, just call or email Darren as these are very critical discussions for the future of the club and could use all the members participation. Darren received an email request from Roger Fritzemeier with PILR that will be passed on through Community Service. Darren also reminded the club of the upcoming meeting schedule that is detailed below.

CLUB ANNOUNCEMENTS:

MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE: Craig Johnson announced that the membership committee thought it was time for another Steak Fry Membership Drive. It is tentatively scheduled for Saturday November 3rd at the Knights of Columbus. More details to come in the weeks ahead.

ICE CREAM BOOTH 2012: Check your calendar as there are still shifts to be filled. If you are not signed up or would like to sign up for another shift, contact Fred Conner, you will make him very happy.

PROGRAM: Todays program was presented by Kim Moore, President, & Michael Gray, Program Assistant with the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund. The United Methodist Health Ministry Fund was established in 1986 to advance health, healing and wholeness throughout Kansas. The Fund was established partially by the proceeds from the sale of Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. Kim & Michael wanted to bring the facts about the Affordable Care Act to the club. The health reform law promises to deliver big changes in the U.S. health care system. Just as a typical piece of legislation can be hard to get the real facts about what it will do, also it is all too easy for misinformation about the law to spread. The health reform law will require nearly all Americans to have health insurance by 2014 or else pay a fine. The law will not allow a government panel to make decisions about end of life care for people on Medicare. The law will not cut benefits that were previously provided to all people on Medicare. The law will expand the existing Medicaid program to cover low-income, uninsured adults regardless of whether they have children. The law will not allow undocumented immigrants to receive financial help from the government to buy health insurance. The law will provide financial help to low and moderate income Americans who dont get insurance through their employer to help them purchase coverage. The law will prohibit insurance companies from denying coverage because of a persons medical history or health condition. The law will not require all small businesses to provide health insurance for their employees. The law will provide tax credits to small businesses that offer coverage to their employees. The law will not create a new government run insurance plan to be offered along with private plans. If you or anyone you know have any questions regarding the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, Kim Moore can be contacted at the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund Office at 100 East First, Hutchinson, Kansas 67504, or by phone at 620-662-8586 or 1-800-369-7191 or at www.healthfund.org.

UPCOMING AMBUCS MEETING SCHEDULE & EVENTS:

Aug. 24th (TOWN CLUB CLOSED) Meeting will be at Reins of Hope, 2216 N. Obee Road, 7 a.m.

Aug. 31st (TOWN CLUB CLOSED) Meeting will be at The Highlands, 7 a.m. Breakfast 8 a.m. Golf

Sept. 7th (KANSAS STATE FAIR) – Meeting will take place at the Old Fashioned Ice Cream Booth on the grounds of the Kansas State Fair, 7 a.m.

Sept. 7th thru Sept. 16th Ice Cream Booth at the KANSAS STATE FAIR Work your scheduled shifts as many hands make work light.

Sept. 14th Meeting will be back at the Town Club. REMINDER TO BOARD MEMBERS Board Meeting at 6:15 a.m.

Sept. 29th CASINO NIGHT, mark your calendar now to help with this important Fund Raiser.

Oct. 13th CASINO NIGHT, another opportunity to help the club raise some funds for the Kids.

DRAWINGS:

50/50 Pot: Dean Brigman won $30.00, even though his phone rang during the Program and had not yet returned to his table. He can thank his brother Terry for noticing the winning ticket.

Newsletter: Ward Davis could have won if he just would have known where the AMBUCS meeting was going to be on Aug. 24th (Reins of Hope). Oh the irony!

NEWSLETTER QUESTION:

Since the AMBUCS will not be meeting at the Town Club for the next 3 weeks, look here in future additions of the newsletter for the question.

EDITOR: Dennis Reiser

If any AMBUC member has any club news or club announcement that needs to be put into the newsletter, please get me the information in a timely manner.

Hutchinson Chapter of AMBUCS

Editor: Duke Wiggins

GUESTS: Mark Rassette our program presenter for today.

SERGEANTS PLAYGROUND: The Ward & Colby Show was back again. I guess Mr.s. Thompson & Brewer were just a kinder, gentler interruption last week. Tim D paid for not going to church for many weeks. Jeff B paid because wife failed to buy a lemonade from Colbys Lemonade stand. Preston Cs entire table was fined for not paying attention during the sergeants appointed time. Jeff R paid for mumbling his introduction of our guest speaker. Curtis M paid a membership renewal tax. Dan P purchased a fine to invite everyone to be at the 30th and Highway 61 intersection at 10:00 this morning (as I write this it is now 10:30) to dedicate the John Neal Memorial Highway. Seeming to have lost control, the Sgts rang out and set down.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: An Ice Cream Booth cleanup day is scheduled for Saturday, August 18th, at 8:00AM. We should be done before noon. All members are invited, particularly our new members who may not be familiar with our booth. We are located directly east of the KTVH Broadcasting Building on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Enter at 20th and Poplar and look just past the Administration Building for a bunch of hard-working, fun-loving members that need your help.

Off-site meetings scheduled for this month: August 24th we will meet at Reins of Hope, 2116 N. Obee Road at 7:00AM. Breakfast will be served by Knackies, followed by a program and/or tour of the facility. August 31st will be our annual golf tournament at the Highlands. Cost to play golf is $40 per person. Breakfast will be served at 7:00AM. See Randy Hendrickson to sign up. Next Friday will be the last time to sign up to play golf with your friends. Great time to invite a potential member.

Darren W. reminded everyone of the 2 task forces he established several weeks ago. The first was to study the grant writing process to be used for funding the Ice Cream Booth. The second was to prepare a presentation for the American Legion on we intend to approach T-shirt sales at the NJCAA Mens National Basketball Tournament. He expects every member to volunteer to be on one of these two task forces. Those who dont volunteer will likely be assigned to one at Darrens discretion. Darrens cell phone # is 620-664-4590, and his email address is darren.wicks@edwardjones.com. Sign up has been brisk, but next week is his deadline for completing the volunteer part of the sign up, so lets get with it or expect a contact.

PROGRAM: Jeff R did a better job of introducing Mark Rassette the second time around. Mr. Rassette is the executive director of both the Hutchinson Arts Center and the Hutchinson/Reno Arts and Humanities Council. These are two separate entities that combine to share his talents in supporting and promoting the Arts and Humanities within Hutchinson and surrounding communities in Reno County. Our own Jim offered high praise for Marks efforts in the downtown area. From the Sculpture Walk to the Main Street benches, his efforts make this area more inviting. From artists, to musicians, to theatrical outlets, the HRAH supports and motivates all efforts to keep the arts alive. They also are a clearing house for events within the area. If you are looking for something different for an evenings entertainment, click on www.hrah.org and check out their events calendar. The Hutchinson Art Center is widely recognized as very unique for a community of 40,000 persons. They have their own private collection that is displayed on a rotating basis and sponsor monthly exhibits at both the Center and the Hutchinson Public Library. After handling several questions, Mark excused himself to prepare for tonights event, the Art Association Member Show Reception, the associations highlight event of the year. Stop by the Center at 405 N. Washington from 5:00 to 7:00 this afternoon to enjoy the event.

DRAWINGS: The 50/50 pot of $18 went to Harley Macklin. The newsletter drawing went to Brenda Janda. I have no idea if she got her money or what she might have done with it since she never answered my voicemail. Next Fridays question for $5 is where is our meeting on August 24th?

NEW EDITOR: I received my get out of jail free card from our big boss, Mr. Hymer. That means you will enjoy the writing talents of Dennis Reiser for a while. I only hope the sergeants are as kind to you as they have been to me. Dennis will now get to enjoy his cold breakfast as I enjoy my warm one.

Hutchinson Chapter of AMBUCS Editor: Duke Wiggins

GUESTS: Program presenters for today: Richard Hollowell, representing the Cosmosphere; Linda Schmidt, representing the Underground Salt Museum; and John Deardoff representing the City of Hutchinson.

SERGEANTS PLAYGROUND: Brad T and Jeff B teamed up to relieve members of their funds this morning. Doug Foss was fined twice for being sassy to the sergeants, which is a nice way of saying he couldnt resist opening his mouth. Ward & Colby were fined at Colbys request. He tried to set the fine at $1 for each fine they collected of the last 2 months, but Ward quickly snuffed that. John K and Ward D (again) were fined for wearing their annoying purple shirts. Paul B paid for looking guilty. Don G and Steve C paid because the always leave early, something about having to get to work. Tony P was fined for being at the wrong place and the wrong time. Even guest John Deardoff was fined for something, but Jeff R quickly anteed up his $1.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: Off-site meetings scheduled for this month: August 24th we will meet at Reins of Hope, 2116 N. Obee Road at 7:00AM. Breakfast will be served by Knackies, followed by a program and/or tour of the facility. August 31st will be our annual golf tournament at the Highlands. Cost to play golf is $40 per person. Breakfast will be served at 7:00AM. See Randy Hendrickson for more details.

Darren W. reminded everyone of the 2 task forces he established last week. The first was to study the grant writing process to be used for funding the Ice Cream Booth. The second was to prepare a presentation for the American Legion on we intend to approach T-shirt sales at the NJCAA Mens National Basketball Tournament. He expects every member to volunteer to be on one of these two task forces. Those who dont volunteer will likely be assigned to one at Darrens discretion. Darrens cell phone # is 620-664-4590, and his email address is darren.wicks@edwardjones.com.

An Ice Cream Booth cleanup day is scheduled for Saturday, August 18th, at 8:00AM. We should be done before noon.

PROGRAM: Our three guest presenters have teamed up to promote the extension of the % county sales tax when it comes up for vote some time in 2013. As three of the largest beneficiaries of the tax funds, they have a vested interest in providing information to the voting public. John Deardoff led off by outlining the history of the tax. It was approved in 1993, renewed in 1997 and again in 2008. The Citys share is approximately $2 million annually. It is earmarked by statute for the citys road and maintenance fund, with a percentage going for property tax reduction. Linda Schmidt indicated that the $100,000 the Underground Salt Museum receives annually since 2008 has allowed them to operate, and recently to improve their marketing program. Richard Hollowell echoed her comments that it allows the Cosmosphere to operate one of the best space campership programs in the world. As a tea, they encouraged us to consider voting in favor of renewing the % sales tax when it comes up sometime in 2013.

DRAWINGS: The 50/50 pot of $18 went to Randy Hendrickson, who did NOT donate it to the City of Hutchinson. The newsletter drawing would have gone to Dan P because he knew the answer (with a little help) but did not know the question. Pot increases to $15 for this Friday. This weeks question is How any members are expected to volunteer to serve on one of the two task forces established by President Darren?

Hutchinson Chapter of AMBUCS

Editor: Duke Wiggins

GUESTS: There being no outside program this week, no guests were expected.

SERGEANTS PLAYGROUND: Sheriffs Ward and Colby announced that this was their swan song; their last dance, the final countdown. They both appeared a little worn down from trying to enlist new ways to recognize members and raise money for the kids. As usual, the lates were punished Dan P, Randall H, and Paul B were on that list. Pat F paid for driving his mustang in some parade. Don G paid $2 for being large and wearing glasses. Jay P paid $2 for not paying attention and running all over the room while the sergeants were in charge. Earlier this summer Ward issued a challenge to Colby to try to put names and faces together by the end of their term. Since the purpose of their job is to raise money for the kids and Colby was short of dollars bills, if he didnt recognize you, you paid the fine. Dennis B, Anita W, Jim J and Craig J all left the meeting one dollar short. All of us have enjoyed Ward and Colby. They will be a hard act to follow, Mr Reiser

ANNOUNCEMENTS: The annual golf tournament will be held on August 31st at the Highlands. Cost will be $40 per player which includes green fees and carts to share. We will meet at 7:00AM and breakfast will be served. The Ice Cream Booth Committee met this morning and scheduled at Clean Up day for August 18th, at 8:00AM. The more help we get, the quicker we get done. Ward is a member of the Reins of Hope Board and thanked the club for everything we do for them. He also invited the club to breakfast on August 24th to fill the other slot when the Town Club is closed. Watch for more details to come.

OPEN FORUM DISCUSSION: President Darren spent the remainder of the meeting presenting what he sees as the two major challenges we will face this year. One is following through on completing an application for a grant to replace the current booth at the fair. Local fundraising professional Amanda Buoy has been schooling him on what it takes to apply for a grant from a major foundation. We must have present a Pert & Gant Chart outlining the timeline for completion. Second we must submit a detailed blue print for the project. The third requirement is an actual cost worksheet, including in kind services indicating our clubs commitment to the project. He wants a special task force of 10-15 persons to oversee this project. The second major challenge we face is studying our fund-raising projects. Our membership is shrinking, down 20 members over the last several years. Our two major projects (the fair booth and the NJCAA Tournament T-shirt sales) have netted less money over the last several years. The 10 year average net income for the Ice Cream Booth is $18,118 per year. The same computation for the NJCAA T-shirt booth is $6,216. Both of these are trending downward over the last several years. Also, with the new 24 team, single-elimination format desired by the NJCAA, our costs could skyrocket while our exposure to the teams during the tournament may be limited. The 2011 net profit from this project was $400. We must be ready this fall to present the American Legion our plan for meeting this challenge or we stand to lose these funds. Darren wants another task force of 6-10 members to come up with this plan. He is making himself available for volunteers to serve in these areas. Call (620-664-4590) or email (darren.wicks@edwardjones.com) him to volunteer or to ask questions and provide input. We have our work cut out for us, so lets face this challenge and overcome it.

DRAWING: The 50/50 pot of $20 went to Paul Brown. There was no time for the newsletter question. The question for August 3rd is How many members paid a fine because Colby could not put their names and faces together? He did a very good job.

Hutchinson Chapter of AMBUCS

Editor: Duke Wiggins

GUESTS: Jackie Rice, Director of Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters, our speaker for today. Matt and Valerie Brock, with daughter Addie and Michelle Miller, Addies physical therapist were guests of Doug Foss.

SERGEANTS PLAYGROUND: Ward and Colby Davis were missing this morning. So, Brad T appointed Stan M to act as Colby and collect fines. It soon became apparent that Stan does not move as quickly and gracefully as Colby and is a whole lot less funny. However, Colby left a list of those whose names should be called on his behalf. At the top of that list was President Darren, who paid several times before the dance was over. Also mentioned were Larry S, Jay P (twice), Tony P, Bob Bush, Randle Haltom, and Scott Potucek. Doc Powers paid to hear the club sing Happy Birthday to him, and Jeff R paid not to hear the club sing Happy Anniversary to him.

AMTRYKE PRESENTATION: This morning we had the privilege of presenting a childs amtryke to Addie Brock, the daughter of Matt and Valerie Brock. She and our Doug Foss met at Pinnacle Rehabilitation where both were undergoing physical therapy. Doug saw her as a good candidate for an amtryke, and her therapist Michelle Miller agreed. She met all the requirements and took possession of her amtryke today. We learned quickly that Addie comes in with an agenda of her own and sticks with it. With the help of Michelle, her Mom, and Mr. Foss, she got on her tryke, but decided she would ride it once she got it home. Dan Power got several pictures for the club. This is why we are AMBUCS!

ANNOUNCEMENTS: President Darren reviewed the action of this mornings Board Meeting. The financials for May and June were reviewed and the budget for 2012-2013 was approved and recommended to the membership. Most of the morning revolved around our two major fund raising projects, the Ice Cream Booth at the fair, and t-shirt sales at the NJCAA National Basketball Tournament. Both projects fell short of our goals for the year, and both are looking forward to major changes in the near future. We are in the process of planning and raising funds to replace the Ice Cream Booth. The NJCAA has proposed a new format for the 2013 tournament, featuring up to 24 teams and a single elimination. This will affect the way we buy and market our t-shirts. The American Legion is faced with putting this new format into a working model, and we will be a part of that process.

Due to the urgency of these important projects, this Fridays program will be an open forum discussion on how we approach these tasks. Please be prepared to attend and participate in this meeting.

There will be a meeting of the Ice Cream Booth Committee at 6:15 on Friday the 27th of July.

PROGRAM: Jeff Roberson introduced his program for this morning, Jackie Rice, the Director of Kansas Big Brothers & Big Sisters. From her office at 930 N. Main in Hutchinson, she promotes the Big Brothers and Big Sisters programs throughout Kansas. The national organization began activity in 1904 by Ernest Coulter a New York City court clerk who noticed that more and more boys were appearing in his court. Many had no male role models in their home and no one with whom to share experiences. From that humble start, the organization has grown both in the United States and internationally and impacted the lives of hundreds of thousands of young people throughout the world. The program is a mentoring program and can be based on community level as well as through local schools. The impact in Kansas is rather staggering as over 6200 young persons were served last year. In Reno County 260 felt the effects last year. Her waiting list of littles seeking bigs usually runs in the 80 to 100 range. If you wish to know more about Big Brothers & Big Sisters of Kansas, Google kansasbigs.org.

DRAWINGS: The 50/50 drawing netted $24 for the lucky winner, Dan Power, who donated it to BBBS The Newsletter Question pot has reached $45. Tony Powers name was drawn, and since Tony had to leave the meeting early, President Darren made an executive decision and donated it to the BBBS. The pot goes back to $5 for the next meeting. The question for next week is How old is Doc Powers?

Hutchinson Chapter of AMBUCS

Editor: Duke Wiggins

GUESTS: Jim Remar, President of the Kansas Cosmosphere & Space Center, our guest speaker for today.

SERGEANTS PLAYGROUND: Colby (you just call my name) Davis and father Ward, rang the bell and began collecting funds for the kids. Rita Joy was the first target, who I heard asking $1 or $2, which is a sure opening for a stupid tax. She paid $2. Tim Davies paid for a quick trip to Oklahoma 2 years ago. Larry Sloan paid for not recognizing Colby. Then there was the missing Board of Directors meeting regularly scheduled for the second Friday of the month. Since Dane P was acting president he and all his board members present paid for forgetfulness, including Dave S, Rita Joy, Doug, Dennis and Duke. Dwight and Brad paid for being themselves. Mark T paid for praying in a church parking lot. Rita Joy paid $1 more to announce that her daughter, Sommer Tokihro, has completed her masters as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor. Seems like it runs in the family.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: Fred sent around the State Fair sign-up sheets. He has scaled down manpower requirements to a bare minimum, and the committee is requesting that each member fill 3-4 hour shifts. This years fair will run from Sept 7th thru Sept 16th.

There will be a Board of Directors meeting Friday 20th at 7:00AM. If you see President Darren, please advise him.

PROGRAM: Jeff Roberson introduced Jim Remar, President of the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center, who was asked to bring an update on the current programs and future direction of Hutchinsons largest year-round tourist attraction. Attendance continues strong, with 150,000 attending last year, 97,000 of which were from outside Reno County. This year they are celebrating their 50th anniversary since opening on the Kansas State Fairgrounds in a borrowed facility. Today they are located at 11th and Plum streets on the campus of HCC and house one of the finest collections of space artifacts in the United States. KCSC has a very strong relationship with the Smithsonian Institute, and provides many thousands of hours through their Spaceworks division in inspecting and restoring exhibits that are to be relocated. Since the space program ended with the completion of the Shuttle flights, Jim feels that KCSC needs to look at the commercial side of space flight and plan their new exhibits around this aspect of future space flight. The IMAX theatre will undergo a significant upgrade this fall. It will be converted to digital output, providing the ability to bring the new world of digital programming right here to Hutchinson. Should be a great economic draw for the community. In ending, Jim encouraged all to support the upcoming sales tax vote, as the Cosmosphere receives much of its operational funding through this tax. Thanks to Jim for a great program.

DRAWINGS: The 50/50 drawing went to Jeff Roberson, who contributed the $22 to the Cosmosphere. The newsletter drawing revealed that Randy Hendrickson did not read his newsletter and knew neither the question nor answer. Next weeks question for $45 is How many shifts is each member expected to work at this years fair?

MEETING: Friday July 6, 2012 EDITOR: Tom Hymer

WELCOME GUESTS: Doug Buning, guest and son in law of Harly Macklin. Skip Wilson presenter for todays program. .

SERGEANTS: Ward and Colby took control of the meeting by fining anyone in their path. There is a new law of nature, if Colby calls you by name, you throw a dollar in the toilet. Ward and Randal had a discussion about Wards bill, Brenda was guilty of winning the 50/50 pot, John got a cell phone call, Stan Macgirvin was just being himself, Ward did some business with Larry, Tim was late a couple of months ago, Fred and Terry left some meeting early, Colby noticed that Bob was irritated, or b[$$+t0fs, Mark for talking, Rick for winning the Chamber drawing, all of them contributed to the cause.

ANNOUNCEMENT: Jay Pitzer said that he has been contacted to host two casino events, Cause for Paws on September 29TH and Holy Cross October 13TH. Jay stressed the fact that each of the these events will require about 25 members and a show of hands showed this amount of support.

PROGRAM: Skip Wilson presented todays program on the Boys and Girls Club. Skip has been the director for 22 years and the agency here in Hutchinson is the 2nd largest in the nation, the largest is located in Hutchinson, MN. In Hutchinson there are 1,300 member kids. The program is based on vision leaders to fulfill a mentor role. The purpose is to prevent truancy, vandalism, drug and alcohol use, and to provide vocational training skills. Training is available for plumbing, welding, auto body repair, and other skilled labor. An interesting fact is that at Westar most of the linemen are in their 60s while the average of new linemen is 16. Boys and Girls Clubs is nation-wide, the success of the Hutchinson club is a model copied by many other clubs.

50/50 DRAWING: Harley Macklin won the 50/50 pot of $26 and donated it the Boys and Girls.

NEWSLETTER DRAWING: Harley Macklins name was drawn, but he couldnt answer the question. For $40 the newsletter question for Friday the 13TH is how many kids are members of the Boys and Girls Club in Hutchinson.