Law enforcement partnerships have helped decrease crime in Lima/Allen County.
 
Steve Barker opened our meeting with invocation and pledge, followed by Ralph Ellis on Fellowship. In spite of the rough time the club gave Ralph, he delivered with a well timed moment of silence that we all took to appreciate our daily blessings. Well played, Ralph!

Cindy Wood gave a salute to all veterans present. In addition, she asked club members to be aware of Lima's challenges to veterans as a bedroom community--many veterans and active Reservists go to units all over the state. There are also challenges in accessing services either within existing agencies or in regional offices in Allen County. As community leaders, we need to be aware of the needs of veterans and their families as employees, neighbors, and family members.

Harold Bischoff presented a video about the international service project. Carl Berger then asked for volunteers for the special needs Christmas party on December 13. The Centennial Committee was looking for items, but this notetaker could not type fast enough to document what! Please ask.

Historical moment: where and when was the handicapped accessible trail installed? At Kendrick Woods, and per Bill Timmermeister's expertise, many years ago.

The program was presented by Chief Martin of Lima City police and Sheriff Crish of Allen County. Their topic was shared policing and collaborative efforts. Chief Martin was very complimentary of Sheriff Crish's follow through on campaign promises of increasing relationships. Pairing up officers on crime hotspots, joint training on K-9 units and tactical teams are examples of success for the two units. Another cooperative effort was Operation Shield, spearheaded by Ohio State Highway Patrol. This effort is evidence of all law enforcement working together. Sheriff Crish reiterated this cooperation. He was able to add a Ohio Highway Patrolman to one of his teams. The Sheriff discussed a grant from the Attorney General's office working on the heroin issue in Allen County. This task force has been able to have two deputies and two city police officers working on the drug issues for up to two years.

In January, the Sheriff's office will move to twelve hour shifts, thereby allowing more people on the road at any given time, as an improvement to the community needs.

When asked about the legalization of marijuana, both officers were not in favor, as use of the substance has led to increased crime in Colorado. Another question was regarding the 'militarization' of police departments. Chief Martin brought up the point of his officers having equivalent fire power as the criminals have. For Sheriff Crish, in addition to the equipment, the department can further sell excess items as revenue or use items like boots for corrections officers and underwear for inmates!

Question was asked about the increase of conceal and carry permits. Sheriff Crish and Chief Martin were both in favor of CCW and right to choose.

THE FINAL MAKEUP FOR THE 100th CLUB PICTURE IS DECEMBER 8--don't miss. Jonalee Schmidt was welcomed back after a heart attack, with a Rottery drawing to Badge number BC --Barry Clark forgot his badge number!