I arrived at the ExpoCentre around 4:50 p.m. for
the late afternoon social held by the 'Crows. I was
greeted with my choice of free pizza, popcorn, soda and
beer. As I munched on a slice of pizza and sipped on my
ice cold bottle of Dasani water, I see the familiar
faces of my Section 113 neighbors. Over the past two
seasons, these people have become like family. So, it was
great to see them again after four months
apart.<br>Jeff Mitchell, The Voice of the ScareCrows, served as
the social's MC. He started by introducing the Crows'
staff. None of the coaches were in attendance. Littler
is in Billings to attend a wedding, Rudrud is in
Minnesota scouting future talent, as is Kollar, who is in
Europe.<br>Mitchell then talked about the USHL as well as showing a
video about the USHL. He then mentioned that the 'Crows
had entered into an agreement with KTOP-AM to
broadcast all 61 regular season games, to the delight of
the 60-70 in attendance. <br>Next to the podium was
Greg Schuh, who talked about season tickets and the
some different ticket promotions they were working on
for this season. He also said the season ticket sales
are on a pace to break last season's number! Schuh
also talked about the new merchandise and about the
'Crows Nest store that will open on Oct. 1. at West
Ridge Mall. It will be located on the upper level, next
to Sears.<br>Up next was Jim Berlew, who is the
director of sales. (I really liked this guy!) He talked
about the total entertainment package the 'Crows would
bring to the fans, other than just the hockey game. He
said that there are plans to make the season opener
like no other Topeka has seen! LISTEN TO THIS...The
Expo's parking lot will open around 4 p.m., where there
will be a carnival-like atmosphere complete with
interactive games, food, and live music! After the game there
will be a free concert. Berlew also mentioned that the
Capital-Journal is behind the new 'Crows 110%, and cjonline would
broadcast the games over the internet through the
ScareCrows' "official" website.<br>And then, last but not
least, Butch Johnson took the podium. He talked about
how the entire staff will work hard everyday to make
sure the 'Crows are successful both on and off the
ice. He also talked about the possibility of building
a 500-seat practice facility for his team that also
would help foster the Jr. ScareCrows program and give
them a place to practice and play. The facility would
also be a place for a figure skating program. And the
most important part...It would be a place ALL Topekans
could use YEAR ROUND to skate.<br>The social wrapped up
with a highlight tape of the Lincoln Stars, to the
music of Motley Crue's "Wildside". It gave me
goosebumps! <br>I've never been so ready for a hockey season
to start as I am this season!