Meeting Minutes, Jan 4, 2009

Members present: Ellen, Don, Lori, Dee, Becky, Gene, Steve

Treasurer’s report: $11,348.91

Dam Run

Duane Peterson from the City Parks & Rec had informed the club that if the Dam Run is held this year, the course would have to be changed due to road construction.  After considerable discussion, it was felt by the majority of members present that it would be best to cancel the race for this year.  (After the meeting and with further discussion with Duane Peterson, it was determined that the City was most interested in proceeding with the run - on an alternate course if necessary.  A re-contact of club members confirmed that the club will cooperate with the City and co-sponsor the run again this year on an altered course.)  Please put this event on your “volunteer opportunity” schedule!

Thanksgiving Day 5K

There was considerable discussion on possibly changing the location of the Thanksgiving Day 5K due to concerns about overcrowding in the Visitor’s Center and inadequate parking.  Club members who worked the event in 2008, however, reported no major problems or complaints.  Gene reported on costs involved in moving the event to campus, including building rental, police charges, facilities fees, etc and it was determined they were prohibitively high.  He had also checked into rental of Abe & Jake’s and Liberty Hall.  Both facilities were available and may be considered in the future.  It was voted to leave the event at its present location at least another year.  Other suggestions included use of paper cups as well as water bottles at the aid station (unless there are freezing conditions), adding more younger age categories, and age grading in the masters category.  Another request offered was that child care be provided.  Discussion determined that due to liability, need for more volunteers and need for additional space, this was not a feasible option at this time.

There was discussion regarding sponsorship of the Thanksgiving Day 5K. Garry  Gribble’s Running Sports has contacted the club about an exclusive sporting goods sponsorship.  More details will be obtained and the matter presented to our next club meeting.

Discussion then moved to a worthy recipient of a donation from our Thanksgiving Day 5K proceeds.  Suggestions included donating to a scholarship for area high school runners, donating to an RRCA program, and donating to the local high school cross country programs. The majority of those present felt they wanted to donate to the Lawrence High and Free State High cross country programs.  After calculating an amount we felt we needed to retain in the club treasury, the club voted to approve donating a total of $3000 for the cross country program.  It was noted that the cross country programs have long wanted to start up a junior high program and if they so choose, they can use this money for that purpose.  Dee will contact the coaches and make arrangements for the payments.

Gene reminded all that it is membership renewal time.  He also encouraged submission of original articles, photos, published articles of interest to runners,  book reviews, etc. for use on the website,

The meeting was adjourned.

The new MARA Grand Prix schedule has been announced and, as always, runners wanting to attend some of these out of town races are urged to contact club members for car pool info. 

Races coming up soon which some members will attend include:

• January 17 Topeka – Auburn Half Marathon
• January 25 Groundhog Run in KC
• February 14 Psycho Wyco trail run at Wyandotte County Lake Park
• as well as the Love 2 Run 4-miler in KC also on February 14.

submitted by Lori Cackler and Dee Boeck