MINUTES OF THE HOUSTON AREA ROAD RUNNERS ASSOCIATION MEETING OF MONDAY, JANUARY 15, 1996
The Monday, January 15, 1996 meeting of the Houston Area Road Runners Association ("HARRA") was called to order at approximately 6:00 p.m. at Panhandle Eastern Corporation, Houston, Texas, by Joy Smith, President. The following Board of Directors of HARRA (the "Board"), constituting a quorum were present:
Joy Smith - President Roger Boak - Vice President of Clubs Jerry Smith - Vice President of Communication Andy Stewart - Vice President of Road Race Management Buddy Schorre - Treasurer Chiquita Taylor - At Large Tom McBrayer - At Large Dennis Halpin - At Large * The following Board members were not present at the meeting Donna Rickenbacker, secretary, Lisa D'Angelo, At Large, Stephanie Lucie, At Large, and Joe Meras, At Large.
Also present at the meeting were steve Costello, Camille Yarbrough, Chuck Cofer, Ellias Stabinsky, John MCCleery, Paul Cooley and Steve Sutton.
I. Reports from the Officers.
The first order of business was a report from the following officers of HARRA:
1. Treasurers Report:
B. Schorre indicated that HARRA has $29,406 in cash in the balanced fund for 1996.
2. Communications:
A marathon survey was distributed. Houston Tenneco did not endorse passing out certificates to those finishing the marathon after five hours because of insurance concerns. Tenneco will give out "I Ran" T-Shirts to those finishing after five hours. Tenneco indicated that it was alright for HARRA representatives to greet runners at the finish line that complete the marathon after five hours.
3. Road Race Management Report:
After discussion, upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board unanimously approved a new graded runners' tax rate and scale for renting HARRA equipment to those affiliated clubs sponsoring HARRA championship races. The approved scale is as follows: Number of Runner's Tax Entrants Equipment Rate (.25/runner) 0-499 o o 500-749 50% 50% 750-999 75% 75% >1000 100% 100%
Those nonaffiliated race organizers sponsoring races in the HARRA championship series will continue to pay 100% equipment rental and runner's tax fees.
4. Club News:
R. Boak indicated that HARRA has submitted a check in the amount of $150.00 to Bert McConn, Manager of the food concessions at Memorial Park, to start construction of a "Runners Wall" in the Tennis Center. He plans to complete the project by February 1, 1996.
R. Boak announced that the start of HARRA' s cross country series has been changed to Thursday, April 11, 1996. The series will include six races on consecutive Thursdays. Each race will start at 6:00 p.m.
5. Owen Anderson Lecture:
Approximately 90 people attended the lecture on Saturday, January 13, 1996, at St. Theresa's Catholic Church. The lecture was very well received. A video of the lecture was taped and is available to those who could not attend.
6. HARRA Booth:
HARRA will share a booth at the marathon expo. with the warm up series. Socks and T-shirts will be available at the booth. A list of potential iron foot winners will also be available for review. Members who volunteered at a race must notify HARRA for the race to be counted towards an iron foot award. Application for 1996 renewals and new memberships will be available at the booth.
7. Awards Party:
An awards party for the 1995 championship series is still in the planning stages. Stephanie Lucie is still researching locations and ideas.
II. New Business.
1. Safety Guidelines:
Paul Cooley has prepared a draft of guidelines to be sent to 20 members for review before a final set of guidelines is prepared.
-2 ~---.. An official waiver form from the RRCA will be part of the gUidelines.
2. Scaffolding Equipment: Houston Masters would like to donate scaffolding equipment to HARRA for rent. In return, Houston Masters would like to be recognized with a designation on the scaffolding and in the HARRA newsletter.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board unanimously approved the purchasing of additional and replacement stop watches. The total expenditure is $273.50 ($11.00/each). Part of the money is from deposits withheld when equipment (watches) was broken or lost at races.
3. Nominating Committee: A nominating committee will be formed to find people interested in replacing board members of HARRA. Board positions available in June, 1996 include President, Treasurer and Secretary/Membership. 4. Park Trails:
~~ Due to budget problems, park improvements have been disappointingly slow. Currently, there is not a start date for improvements to memorial park. HARRA is currently researching building a track across from the tennis center to replace to existing blacktop track. The next regular meeting of HARRA is scheduled for Monday, February 19, 1996, at Panhandle Eastern corporation in the Auditorium at 6:00 p.m.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned. The minutes hereinabove described were taken by Chiquita Taylor and transcribed by Donna Rickenbacker. ~~LJ.'1f}~~ Donna W. Rickenbacker, Secretary of HARRA
-3 MINUTES OF THE HOUSTON AREA ROAD RUNNERS ASSOCIATION MEETING OF MONDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 1996 The Monday, February 19, 1996 meeting of the Houston Area Road Runners Association ("HARRA") was called to order at approximately 6:00 p.m. at Panhandle Eastern Corporation, Houston, Texas, by Joy Smith, President. The following Board of Directors of HARRA (the "Board"), constituting a quorum were present:
Joy Smith - President Roger Boak - Vice President of Clubs Jerry Smith - Vice President of Communication Andy Stewart - Vice President of Road Race Management Donna Rickenbacker - Secretary Tom McBrayer - At Large Lisa D'Angelo - At Large Stephanie Lucie - At Large Dennis Halpin - At Large'
* The following Board members were not present at the meeting: Buddy Schorre - Treasurer, Chiquita Taylor - At Large and Joe Meras, At Large.
Also present at the meeting were Steve Costello, Camille Yarbrough, Chuck Cofer, Carole Penning, Luis Gonzales, Albert Mendoza, and Pat Smith.
I. Reports from the Officers.
The first order of business was a report from the following officers of HARRA:
1. Minutes:
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the minutes of the regular meeting of January 15, 1996 were accepted as presented.
2. Treasurers Report:
No report was presented.
3. Communications:
Jerry Smith indicated that the next issue of "Footprints" will be one of our largest and will include the names of 105 Iron Foot winners and 470 HARRA finishers of the 1996 Tenneco Marathon.
4. Club Report:
R. Boak indicated that the cross country events start on April 11, 1996 at 6:00 p.m., run for six consecutive Thursday nights and will range in distances from 3 to 6 miles.
The winners (male and female) of each cross country race will earn the right to wear a "Tour de France" style jersey in the next event. They may keep the jersey until someone else wins. R. Boak announced that the running wall is complete, and will go up on February 20, 1996.
R. Boak indicated that Terlingua would like for HARRA to consider a change in age categories for the One Hour Run, to include the following:
0-20, 21-29, 30-33, 34-37, 38-39, 40-41, 42-43, 44-46, 47-49, 50-54, 55-61, 62-up.
Awards would be presented to the top three in each category. Upon motion duly made and seconded the Board voted against changing the age categories for the one hour run.
5. Road Race Management Report:
A. Stewart announced that the 15K is,:,p.):)out 10% ahead of last year's early registration. He also announced that there would not be any race day registration for the 15K.
6. Elections:
Jerry Smith is heading up a nominating committee to find people interested in becoming members of the HARRA Board for the 1996-1997 season. The elections will be held in June, 1996. The positions currently available include President, Treasurer, Membership and Secretary.
After discussion, the Board voted in favor of splitting the responsibilities of the Membership/Secretary position between two board members, so that one of the current At-Large board members would have the title of Membership Director and the Secretary position would remain the same. The Board would continue to consist of 12 members.
7. Budget:
After discussion, the Board voted to accept the 1996 budget presented by Joy Smith with minor modifications being made with the Treasurers input. II. New Business.
1. Marathon Run Team Concept:
Luis Gonzales and Albert Mendoza presented a program called "Marathon Run Team Concept". It is designed to provide pacers for those training for a marathon. Coaching will not be provided. They were not asking for money or an official endorsement but rather they just wanted to make HARRA aware of their efforts.
2. Awards Party:
S. Lucie presented her awards party findings. The Board opted to table for future discussion.
-2 3. RRCA Convention:
The Board voted to send four Board members to the 1996 RRCA convention in Knoxville, Tennessee on May 9-12, 1996.
The next regular meeting of HARRA is scheduled for Monday, March 18, 1996, at Panhandle Eastern Corporation in the Auditorium at 6:00 p.m.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
~NLcK/ ~ ¢A;O z€. Donna W. Rickenbacker, Secretary of HARRA
-3 MINUTES OF THE HOUSTON AREA ROAD RUNNERS ASSOCIATION MEETING OF MONDAY, MARCH 18, 1996 The Monday, March 18, 1996 meeting of the Houston Area Road Runners Association ("HARRA") was called to order at approximately 6:00 p.m. at Panhandle Eastern Corporation, Houston, Texas, by Joy Smith, President. The following Board of Directors of HARRA (the "Board"), constituting a quorum were present: Joy Smith - President Roger Boak - Vice President of Clubs Jerry Smith - Vice President of Communication Andy Stewart - Vice President of Road Race Management Buddy Schorre - Treasurer Chiquita Taylor - At Large Tom McBrayer - At Large Dennis Halpin - At Large Lisa D'Angelo - At Large * The following Board members were not present at the meeting Donna Rickenbacker, Secretary, Stephanie Lucie, At Large, and Joe Meras, At Large. Also present at the meeting were Steve Costello, Camille Yarbrough, David Glenn, Debbie Smith, Ray Hodges, John McCleery, Bill Hadley and Paul Cooley.
I. Reports from the Officers. The first order of business was a report from the following officers of HARRA: 1. Treasurers Report: B. Schorre indicated that HARRA has $39,545.00 in the balanced fund account. Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board voted to move $10,000.00 into T-Bills. The 1996 bUdget presented for approval at the February 19, 1996, was approved with those minor changes discussed at the February 19, 1996 meeting. 2. Communications: Jerry Smith announced that the deadline for getting information into the May 1, 1996 issue of "Footprints" is April 10, 1996. 3. Club Report: The Cross Country races begin April 11, 1996 at 6:00 p.m. and continue for 5 consecutive Thursday nights at the following locations: 1. April 11, 1996 - across from American General (Allen Parkway/Waugh); 2. April 18, 1996 - Ho Chi Minh; 3. April 25, 1996 - Braes Bayou; 4. May 2, 1996 - near St. Thomas High School; 5. May 9, 1996 - Cambodia Trail; 6. May 16, 1996 - near St. Thomas High School.
The Al Lawrence Running Club is currently leading the spring series after the 10K.
Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board voted to count those HARRA members living in Orange County, Texas, when tabulating individual and team result.
The running wall at Memorial Park is complete. R. Boak indicated that the wall cost $750.00 and that Bert McConn wants HARRA to give an additional $150.00 towards the completion costs (the Board voted in September, 1995, to give up to $350.00 towards such costs). Upon motion duly made and seconded, the Board voted to give a total of $500.00 to Bert McConn for the construction of the running wall at Memorial Park.
4. Road Race Management Report:
The 15K and 10K got an overall evaluation of great.
II. New Business.
1. World Cross Country Races:
It was announced that Jim McClathie will be handling the women's world cross-country races for 1997 and will need volunteers.
2. HARRA Happy Hours: a. Spring Fling - April 12, 1996 - Hosted by Greater Houston Track Club from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Iron Foot awards from fall series will be presented);
b. Summer Fling Hosted by the Al Lawrence Running Club. Date, location and time to be announced; and
c. Fall Fling - Hosted by the Houston Fit. Date, location and time to be announced.
3. Iron Foot Awards:
The Iron Foot awards will be available at the One Hour Run and the Spring Fling.
-2 The next regular meeting of HARRA is scheduled for Monday, April 15, 1996, at Panhandle Eastern Corporation in the Auditorium at 6:00 p.m.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
The minutes hereinabove described were taken by Chiquita Taylor and transcribed by Donna Rickenbacker. ~~ U. LtB~gcJ:ii72 Donna W. Rickenbacker, Secretary of HARRA
-3 MINUTES OF THE HOUSTON AREA ROAD RUNNERS ASSOCIATION MEETING OF MONDAY, APRIL 15, 1996
The Monday, April 15, 1996 meeting of the Houston Area Road Runners Association ("HARRA") was called to order at approximately 6:00 p.m. at Panhandle Eastern Corporation, Houston, Texas, by Roger Boak, Vice President of Clubs. The following Board of Directors of HARRA (the "Board") were present: Roger Boak - Vice President of Clubs Andy Stewart - Vice President of Road Race Management Donna Rickenbacker - Secretary Chiquita Taylor - At Large Tom McBrayer - At Large Dennis Halpin - At Large * The following Board members were not present at the meeting Joy Smith, President; Jerry Smith, Vice President of Communication; Buddy Schorre, Treasurer; Stephanie Lucie, At Large; Joe Meras, At Large and Lisa D'Angelo, At Large. Also present at the meeting were Steve Costello, Camille Yarbrough, Chuck Cofer, Ray Hodges, John McCleery, Tom Shelton, Shannon Fogarty and Ron Morgan.
I. Election and Awards Party.
R. Boak announced that the HARRA board member elections and spring series awards party will be held on Saturday, June 1, 1996 at Becks Prime Cafe at Memorial Park Golf Course Clubhouse. This meeting will take the place of HARRA's regularly scheduled meeting the third Monday in June, 1996. .
II. Report from the Officers.
1. Road Race Management Report: A. One Hour Run: The One Hour Run took place on Saturday, March 23, 1996 and did not meet the minimum guidelines prescribed by HARRA. The race failed to have EMT's on site (HARRA requires two EMT's at all championship races). The evaluating committee gave the race a overall good rating. There was a lot of discussion on moving the race to another day of the week to improve the number of participants and on whether or not the race should remain part of the spring series.
A committee was formed at the request of C. Taylor to evaluate HARRA's championship races with emphasis on determining ways to insure that selected races comply with our minimum guidelines. The committee will also review ways to improve the spring series. B. Bellaire Trolley Run 5K:
The Bellaire Trolley Run 5K met all of HARRA's minimum guidelines and received a great overall rating. The only negative comment was that the last l/lOth of a mile appeared to be long. T. McBrayer indicate that the overall distance of the course was accurate but after remeasuring the course agreed that the 3rd mile marker was off.
C. Law Week Run:
The Law Week 8K received a great overall rating. The only negative comments concerning the 8K were that the HARRA logo was not on the entry form, several people felt that there should be an extra day of registration and the 8:20 a.m. start was to late.
2. Membership:
D. Rickenbacker indicated that the HARRA membership database would be modified so that members may choose whether or not to have their names sold to outside advertiser.
3. Trail Update:
S. Costello indicated that the trail maintenance program is .~ still on hold. He prepared a letter for Joy Smith's signature to Councilman Kelley, whose district includes Memorial Park, regarding HARRA's concerns about the continued delays. He encourage everyone to write Councilman Kelley with their complaints.
4. Cross-Country Report:
R. Boak indicated that their were a record 61 runners at the first cross country event held April II, 1996 on Allen" Parkway/Waugh. The next race will take place on Ho Chi Minh on Thursday, April 18, 1996.
II. New Business.
1. HARRA Happy Hours:
a. Spring Fling - April 12, 1996 - Hosted by Greater Houston Track Club from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Iron Foot awards from fall series will be presented);
b. Summer Fling - July 26, 1996 - Hosted by the Al Lawrence Running Club; and
c. Fall Fling - Hosted by the Houston Fit. Date, location and time to be announced.
T. McBrayer announced that HMSA was interested in hosting a happy hour sometime before the 25K (November 12, 1996).
-2 2. Concert Run:
Tom Shelton will investigate the possiblity of holding a race in connection with the summer concert series held at Hermann Park.
3. Change of Officers:
Ed McKinney is the new BARe representative to HARRA. Mark Anderson is the new BARC President.
The next regular meeting of HARRA is scheduled for May 20, 1996, at Panhandle Eastern Corporation in the AUditorium at 6:00 p.m.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:10 p.m. • ~~LJ. y(1L/:-1:a~ Donna W. Rickenbacker, Secretary of HARRA
-3 MINUTES OJ;' THE HOUSTON AREA ROAD RUNNERS ASSOCIATION MEETING )~ MONDAY,JUNE 17, 1996
The June 17, 1996 meeting ofthe Houston Area Road Runners Association (HARRA) was called to order by newly-elected President Steve Costello at 6: 10 p.m. at the Panhandle Eastern Corporation conference facility. The following members ofthe Board ofDirectors were present: Steve Costello - President Roger Boak - Vice President of Clubs Chiquita Taylor - Vice President ofRoad Race Management Jerry Smith - Vice }fresident of Communications Jack Lippincott - Treasurer Donna Rickenbacker - At Large Tom McBrayer - At Large Paul Cooley - At Large Steve Sievert - At Large Also in attendance were Joy Smith, Chuck Cofer, John McCleery and Bill Smith.
President's Report
1) A recommendation was made and approved by voice vote that Steve Sievert, Lisa D'Angelo, and Paul Cooley be appointed At-Large Members ofthe HARRA Board. 2) Bill Smith ofHouston Parks & Recreation had verbally requested that HARRA recognize the three staff members who identified the accused "Memorial Park Rapist". Steve recommended that HARRA wait until the accused is convicted. 3) With regard to renewal ofthe Park Running Trail, Steve mentioned that architect Paul Woodson has not responded to HARRA's repeated requests for information.
Treasurer's Report
~ewly-insta1ledTreasurer Jack Lippincott reported that the duties of Treasurer are in transition and new signature cards will be prepared. There are no pressing problems.
Special Report
Steve Sievert gave a briefsummary ofthe "American Running Report" radio program he is producing for the Prime Sports Network, airing across the southwestern US on 11:13 a.m. Sundays. It was suggested that a story on the upcoming 100-mile relay run could be ofregional interest.
Club Report
Roger Boak reported that nine plaques are being assembled in preparation for placement on the Tennis Center "Running Wall". Other items mentioned were: 1) The Tornados are likely to organize the Fall Series Cross C('mntry Relay, expected around October 6. 2) The sum of$150 has been paid to RunSport to help compensate them for the unexpectedly large number ofBogPerson hats required at the close ofthe Spring Cross County Series. 3) A cross-country "Mini-Tour de Bayou" is envisioned for the period September. 19-0ctober 10, with the timing to be controlled to minimize conflicts with the longer HARRA Fall Series runs.
Communications
Jerry Smith reported that the July-August Newsletter is to be published the week of June 17. Dennis Halpern has withdrawn from preparing the Events Calendar ofthe newsletter, but Ron Morgan has agreed to take his place. Carol Anderson is moving and can no longer prepare the "Meet Our Members" section, and a volunteer to take this column over is being sought.
Road Race Management
Chiquita Taylor reported that it the HARRA road-race guidelines have been upgraded to requirements. The Road-Race Committee will meet later in June to finalize recommendations for a revised handout for race directors. Safety issues will be included in the new list of requirements. Other items discussed included: 1) Bids for Fall and Spring Series road races will be on the agenda for the August 19 HARRA meeting. There are already two contenders for the Fall ten-mile race. 2) The One-Hour Run has been re-reviewed and the decision made to stand by the original evaluation. 3) Joy Smith proposed purchase ofeight additional copies ofthe RRCA handbook "A Guide to Club and Race Administration" at $10 each, for use by Houston-area race directors. The proposal was approved.
Women's IOO-Mile Relay
Joy Smith provided a summary of issues being faced by this run. Of prime concern was the necessity of each runner being a HARRA member, and considerable discussion revolved around possible options to meet this requirement. It was pointed out that issuing a special membership to cover just this run made the most economic sense, as a one-day membership would not purchase a Newsletter subscription, but no decision was reached. Tom McBrayer will handle equipment and timing for the relay, Jill Washburn will organize the "Women's Health Issues" tent, Jeannie McCain will be the volunteer coordinator, and Sadie Greenman will head the food committee. Joy Smith, Chiquita Taylor, and Lisa d'Angelo will coordinate the event, with assistance from iO co-captains (a represemativerrom each HARRA-affiliated club). Steve Sievert is to consider including coverage ofthis event in his radio show. A title sponsor is needed, with a commitment level ofaround $4000. The goal is to better the existing world record (10: 15:29.6, a 6: 10 pace, set by the Dolphin South End Runners in 1980).
Membership
Donna Rickenbacker reported that the transition to Debra Kempler-Smith has not yet been undertaken. The membership records are now on dBase software, and the intent is to keep the records either on dBase or transfer them to a compatible software.
New Business
/~" 1) It was decided to sell surplus Kid's Run T-shirts for $1.00 to reduce BARRA's inventory. 2) The possibility ofmaintaining a HARRA WebPage was discussed, with the suggestion that perhaps Joe Hartley would be willing to undertake its creation and maintenance. 3) The Al Lawrence Running Club has committed to organizing the July 26 Party in the Park. Houston /-" Masters expressed a willingness to do the same in November. 4) Roger Boak broached the subject ofresurrecting the former practice ofarranging for volunteers to man a HARRA table at area road races to seek new members and help keep old ones.
The next regular meeting ofHARRA is scheduled for July 15, 1996, at Panhandle Eastern Corporation in the conference room at 6:00 p.m.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at approximately 7:30 p.m.
The minutes described above were taken and transcribed by Chuck Cofer and edited by Camille Yarbrough. /~Lf Secretary of HARRA MINUTES OF THE HOUSTON AREA ROAD RUNNERS ASSOCIATION MEETING ~' MONDAY, JULY 15, 1996
The July 15, 1996 meeting of the Houston Area Road Runners Association (HARRA) was called to order by President Steve Costello at 6:05 p.m. at the Panhandle Eastern Corporation conference room. The following members ofthe Board ofDirectors were present: Steve Costello - President, Roger Boak - Vice President ofClubs, Jerry Smith - Vice President of Communications, Chiquita Taylor - Vice President ofRoad Race Management, Camille Yarbrough - Secretary, Debra Kempler Smith - At-Large (Membership), Lisa D'Angelo - At-Large, Paul Cooley - At-Large, Tom McBrayer - At-Large, Donna Rickenbacker - At-Large. Also in attendance were Joy Smith, Reilly Smith, Ron Morgan, John McCleery, Ed McKenney, Tamara Hew, Bill Smith and John Phillips.
President's Report
a) Steve met with Beto Bautista, Rick DeWees, Bill Smith, and a local contractor on July 3 to discuss the status ofthe trail improvement project. Steve suggested that the trail just be resurfaced for now, ideally to be completed by September, rather than wait the 12 to 18 months before construction would likely be started on the entire project, which would include drainage improvements, new exercise stations and miscellaneous items, as well as reshaping and resurfacing the trail. Resurfacing alone could take as little as ten days at a projected cost of $75,000 to /~ $100,000. However, Mr. Smith wants to go with the entire project as originally planned. Steve said he has scheduled an appointment in two weeks with other city officials to pursue the possibility of resurfacing now.
b) Steve met with Ed Sehl from the Memorial Park Golf Course on July 11, to discuss Mr. SeW's ideas on how the golfers and runners and tennis players can be good neighbors. Mr. SeW said that runners who used the golfcenter parking lot were inconveniencing golfers, particularly between 4-8 p.m. on weekdays. Steve said thathe will recommend that BARRA members park elsewhere when he writes his column for Footprints.
The Golf Course operators will be installing 20 feet of additional fencing on the driving range to help protect the park users in the tennis and strytching areas. The City is also considering 'constructing an environmentally compatible, low fence along the northern boundary ofthe driving range to remind park users to beware stray balls. ~ Mr. SeW suggested holding a "get-to-know the golf course" fun run and fund raiser in October on a Tuesday when the golf course is usually closed. The fun run would traverse the entire golf path so that runners could see the newly remodeled course.
c) David Hannah ofthe Houston Methodist Marathon has invited BARRA to jointly contribute funds toward purchase of an infra-red gun to be used by the Houston Police Department to help locate potential criminals lurking in the bushes around the city parks. The gun costs approximately $8000 ofwhich HARRA would pay half. The issue was tabled for a month pending more information. Treasurer's Report
In the absence of Jack Lippincott, Steve Costello reported that HARRA's monthly net revenue for June was $2413.48, and the total for the year was $6278.71.
Clubs Report
Roger Boak reported that the fall cross-country runs are scheduled for September 19, 26 and October 3 and 10. He is recruiting anyone interested in helping lay a course or working at the events.
The Running Wall in the tennis center is still in the works. All the plaques have been turned over for installation, so it could happen any day now.
A new club has been formed at St. Joseph Hospital. They have inquired about HARRA membership and are planning to become affiliated.
Communications Report
.Information for the next Footprints is due to Jerry Smith by August 9. Ron Morgan is now in charge ofthe calendar ofevents. John McCleery has replaced Carol Anderson on the "Meet Our Members" column, and Janet Henry will contribute to the "Running Around Town" section.
~, A proposal was made for a HARRA website to give the organization more exposure. Members have also been providing E-mail addresses on their application and we may want to add these to our data base.
Road Race Management
a) Bid packages for the Fall Series Road Races are being mailed out. The packets contain the new minimum requirements and bid forms. Bids for the fall series will be considered at the August 19 HARRA board meeting. The road race management committee is discussing a theme for the spring series to help tie it together better and encourage more participation.
b) The Women's 100-Mile Relay has generated ipterest from at least 230 runners. The open . women's team which will attempt to set a new world record at the distance has been filled with women who can run 6: 15 or better for the mile. Young high school girls, collegiate athletes and even a few masters women have been signed up for the race. For the masters women's relay 115 people have shown interest. The participation relay has not yet been filled. The Guinness Book of World Records will be contacted to determine what evidence will be necessary to have the results entered.
Steve Costello has surveyed the track at Memorial Park and Don Kinney will paint a 2-inch wide stripe around the track to measure the accurate quarter mile for the relay. Three timing strategies are being considered: Gary Mulvihill will provide computerized results as the primary system; there will be a manual backup; and possibly a video recording ofthe finish. c) Tammy Hew, representing the Tornados Track Club, presented plans for the Cross-Country Relay to be held October 6 at 5 p.m. The Tornados are plarming a fiesta atmosphere complete with Mariachis and pinatas. Prize money will be presented to the top teams in each division. d) Discussion ensued regarding prize money to be awarded at the 20K which would only go to USTAF card holders. This would be in direct conflict with the newly minted HARRA guidelines which specified that prize money must be eligible to all comers at a HARRA championship event. Steve Costello suggested that the problematic requirement be deferred to the road race management committee for further discussion and resolution.
Membership
HARRA needs to purchase software for Debra Kempler-Smith's computer in order to move the membership files from Donna Rickenbacker's computer to hers. It was moved and seconded that a D-Base software package be purchased at a cost ofapproximately $500. The motion passed with unanimous approval.
Other Business
Ed McKenney passed around a copy ofthe Texas Newsletter ofthe Road Runners Club ofAmerica which he writes. He said that 10 Miles for Texas will host the RRCA National Championship for men and women on November 2. Ed encouraged early sign up for the 15K National Championship in Peachtree City, Georgia on October 12th. The Southern Regional meeting of the RRCA will be held on the Friday before that race, as well as a coaching seminar with Roy Benson. The Texas state meeting will be held on Saturday before the Houston Methodist Marathon. Also, any club wishing to participate in the RRCA newsletter contest must enter by September 30.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at approximately 7:15 p.m. MINUTES OF THE HOUSTON AREA ROAD RUNNERS ASSOCIATION MEETING MONDAY, AUGUST 19, 1996
The August 19, 1995 meeting ofthe Houston Area Road Runners Association was called to order by President Steve Costello in the Panhandle Eastern Corporation conference room. The following members of the Board of Directors was present: Steve Costello - President, Roger Boak - Vice President of Clubs, Jerry Smith - Vice President of Communications, Chiquita Taylor - Vice President ofRoad Race Management, Jack Lippincott - Treasurer, Debra Kempler-Smith - At Large (Membership), Tom McBrayer - At Large, Donna Rickenbacker - At Large, Steve Sievert - At Large, Paul Cooley - At Large. Also in attendance were Mike Daniel, Ed McKenney, John McCleery, Bill Smith, Bill Hadley, Walt Sklenar, Will Lindgren, Randy Carlso, Wesley Robin, Alex Galbraith and Ellen Earle.
President's Report
Steve reported that his suggestion to resurface the Memorial Park trail as a temporary measure, before the-long term project which would also include drainage and other improvements, was declined by the Parks office. A recent survey showed 14,000 vehicles a day passing through Memorial Park. This information has been made available to the Mayor's office and may help move the City offdead center on the park improvements project. Additional trail improvements proposed were better lighting and 911 call boxes placed each half mile along the trail. Steve will meet with the City again on September 3.
The request from the Houston Marathon to share expenses for an infra-red gun to be used to detect potential villains hiding in the park bushes was tabled for a second month pending additional information.
Treasurer's Report
Jack Lippincott reported that HARRA's monthly net revenue for July was -$1,696.84 and the total for the year was $4,581,87. Additional funds are expected from the Women's Relay and membership dues.
Clubs Report
Chiquita Taylor suggested that all clubs be represented at the HARRA Happy Hours and that the day be changed from Friday to Thursday to increase attendance.
Communications Report
Footprints is scheduled to be sent out the second week ofSeptember. Information for the next issue is due to Jerry Smith by the first week of October. Road Race Management
The Gallery Furniture 20K to be held October 20, 1996 will again be the HARRA 20K championship and will also serve as the USATF 20K championship for open women. About 100 150 women are expected to participate in the USATF event and will be separated into a different staging area from the rest ofthe field. Qualifiers for the national competition must have run one of the following distances in these times or better: lOK--39:00, 15K--1:00:20, 10 Miles--1 :05:01, 20K- 1:22:09, 25K--1:44:21, 30K--2:06:55, Marathon--3:03:19. Prize money will be awarded to the top 10 and the top 3 masters.
The 25K will be held November 17, 1996. Cash awards will be made to top male and female finishers and awards presented to top 10%. The 30K scheduled for December 8, 1996 has a new course this year starting and finishing at the new First Colony Mall. Ten Miles for Texas will be held November 2, i 996 and will also serve as the USATF ten mile championship for males and females, open and masters. The course will be slightly changed from last year.
The Women's Relay Open and Masters teams have been filled with an additional group ofwomen signed up for a second open team. The course has been certified and the race is showing a profit. Radio and TV coverage is planned.
Membership
.~\ A computer, printer and software will be purchased for membership use.
Other Business
Houston Marathon sign-up party will be Monday, September 9. Clubs wishing to set up a table need to contact BARRA for space. Volunteers are needed.
The Brazosport Area Road Runners Association is the latest club to join BARRA. It has 106 members and hosts the Run for the Arts 10 mile race to be held December 21, 1996.
Steve Sievert reported that ~_kid's race is plmmed for t.~e Saturday before the Marathon as p::!rt of the Mayor's Cup.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned. The minutes were taken by Mike Daniel and transcribed by Camille Yarbrough. Clubs Report
Roger Boak announced that the series of4 fall cross country runs, known as "Practice for the Tour de Bayou", will begin September 19 at 6:00 p.m. with a 4 mile run in Herman Park starting at the statue of Sam Houston. Subsequent runs are scheduled as follows: 9/26 6:00p.m. Ho Chi Minh, starting at Memorial park rugby/soccer field, 6 miles; 10/3 6:00p.m. Shepherd Street Bridge, north side, 5 miles; 10/1 06:00p.m. Cemetery on Allen Parkway, 6 miles.
Roger will hold a meeting with all club representatives on September 30 at 6:00 p.m. at the Panhandle Eastern conference room to discuss the upcoming fall series points system. Attendees should be the persons who make out the race rosters.
Upcoming parties at the park will be held September 19, hosted by Houston Fit, and November 7, hosted by Houston Masters, both dates are Thursdays. All Clubs are urged to have representatives at the parties.
Communications Report
Information for the next issue of Footprints is due to Jerry Smith by the first week of October.
Jerry Smith reported that Geoffrey Barr, a BARRA member who works with Uniglobe Travel, has r-~. proposed that BARRA become an affinity group ofUniglobe Travel. Uniglobe would coordinate travel to out-of-town races for groups and individuals ofHARRA members and about 1% of the travel cost would go to HARRA. Steve Costello asked that a contract be sent to him and all board members for review and telephone vote. A motion was made, seconded and approved to handle the issue as Steve requested. Members should provide a list of races to which they would most like to travel.
Road Race Management
Chiquita Taylor reported a positive cash flow of $2000 from the 100 mile relay, $1000 of which is earmarked for Debra Kemp1er-Smith's student run program and some monies to be seeded for next year's event.
BARRA will sponsor another Kid's run, possibly a relay on the Memorial Park track in the spring.
A committee to plan a men's 100 mile relay was formed, initially consisting of Ron Morgan, Jerry Smith, Roger Boak, Steve Sievert, David Glenn and Randy Carlson. It was suggested that a health fair should be appended to the event to include sponsors such as St. Joseph's Hospital.
Membership
Seventy-five I-day memberships and twenty 1996 memberships were generated at the 100 mile relay. Membership information is up-to-date as of September 15 except for 1997 renewals because the stickers are not yet available. Software is currently being rewritten to be user friendly before membership duties are fully transferred from Donna Rickenbacker to Debra Kempler-Smith.
Other Business
The HARRA wall in Loopers at Memorial Park Tennis Center should be completed any day now.
Steve Costello reported that plans are being created for a real 8-lane track, complete with a building for Memorial Park, which is proposed to be built in a large open area due east ofthe existing track. This project would be funded by private donations.
Joy Smith asked for volunteers to act as a jury of appeals, offidill tim~rs, help with hospitality, airport pickup, course tour, training run partners, and otherwise assist elite women runners arriving to participate in the Gallery Furniture 20K USATF Championship for open women to be held October 20.
Debra Kempler-Smith said that there has been a lot of interest by members in purchasing HARRA clothing items. She will present a proposal to the board for her company to handle merchandising ofthe HARRA clothing.
Steve Sievert gave an update on the 2-mile, non-competitive kid's race planned for the Saturday, January 11, the day before the Houston Marathon. This event is part of the Mayor's Cup Youth Fitness Program and will include 1500 randomly selected sixth, seventh, and eighth graders from HISD and Aldine ISD who have qualified by completing the school-administered health and fitness program provided by RRCA and HARRA.
Discussion broke out on the subject ofHouston Fit crowds in the park and in River Oaks. Generally it was said that the influx to the running community was welcomed but that safety issues were a concern with the large numbers. Lisa D'Angelo explained that the groups were broken down into smaller ones and safety was stressed at all times. It was suggested that they be encouraged to acquire reflective gear for early morning running.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:40 p.m.. b-~ ~ 0',."'// _I. -., // 4-(:. / ~ IJ.;.-,A' \ ~.L---'-- . // . C ' Ie Yarbrough ~/ Secretary of HARRA U ,~, MINUTES OF THE HOUSTON AREA ROAD RUNNERS ASSOCIATION MEETING MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 16,1996
The September 16, 1995 meeting ofthe Houston Area Road Runners Association was called to order by President Steve Costello in the Panhandle Eastern Corporation conference room at 6:05 p.m. The following members ofthe Board ofDirectors was present: Steve Costello - President, Roger Boak Vice President of Clubs, Jerry Smith - Vice President of Communications, Chiquita Taylor - Vice President ofRoad Race Management, Jack Lippincott - Treasurer, Camille Yarbrough - Secretary, Debra Kempler-Smith - At Large (Membership), Tom McBrayer - At Large, Lisa D'Angelo - At Large, Steve Sievert - At Large, Paul Cooley - At Large. Also in attendance were Joy Smith, Mike Daniel, Ed McKenney, John McCleery, Bill Smith, Bill Hadley, Wesley Robin, David Glenn, Ron Morgan, Randy Carlson and John Phillips.
The meeting began with a special presentation by Foresight Security Systems representative Keith Johnson on the Spider Alert Network, a proposed security system for Memorial park users. The system consists ofa small transmitter to be carried or worn by the park visitor (runner) and a series of receivers, strategically located in the areas requiring coverage, to be monitored by security personnel. A runner needing assistance would activate the transmitter alerting security personnel to the runners location in the park, enabling a quick response. Transmitters would be leased out on a monthly or annual basis. Mr. Johnson suggested that HARRA would be the concessionaire. He said the system was estimated to cost about $100,000 for installation and require a minimum of 1000 users to be financially feasible, the cost to be borne by HARRA and/or the city Parks Department. Foresight has met with the city but received no commitment from them, instead being referred to HARRA. Steve Costello requested a written proposal for the system which he will discuss with city officials. He added that the concept is good but the cost is out ofHARRA's league.
President's Report
Steve reported that no progress has been made on the trail improvement issue, but discussions with Bill Smith are ongoing. Mr. Smit.~ is trying to tie park improvements with a city-wide bike trail which will pass through part of Memorial Park. Mr. Smith met with the Memorial Park Advisory Board on September 16, recommending that the bike path be placed on the north side of Memorial Park adjacent to the running trail. The Advisory board did not approve the plan. Steve said that city council members need to be flooded with faxes and letters indicating our concern about the parks improvements. He will draft a form letter aRd make it available to everyone in the near future.
HARRA'S membership in the Citizen's Environmental Coalition is up for renewal. It was moved and seconded not to renew. The motion passed.
Treasurer's Report
Jack Lippincott reported that HARRA's monthly net revenue for August was $4542.39 and the total for the year was $9124.26. The increase reflected income from the 100 mile relay. MINUTES OF THE HOUSTON AREA ROAD RUNNERS ASSOCIATION MEETING MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 1996
The October 21,1996 meeting ofthe Houston Area Road Runners Association was called to order by President Steve Costello in the Panhandle Eastern Corporation conference room at 6:00 p.m. The following members ofthe Board ofDirectors was present: Steve Costello - President, Roger Boak Vice President of Clubs, Jerry Smith - Vice President of Communications, Chiquita Taylor - Vice President of Road Race Management, Jack Lippincott - Treasurer, Camille Yarbrough - Secretary. Debra Kempler-Smith - At Large (Membership), Tom McBrayer - At Large, Lisa D'Angelo - At Large, Steve Sievert - At Large, Donna Rickenbacker - At Large. Also in attendance were Joy Smith, Mike Daniel, td McKenney, JOM McCleery, Bill Smith, Suzanne Swift, David Glenn. Ron Morgan, Randy Carlson, JOM Phillips, Mick Midkiff, Walt Sklenar and Pat Smith.
President's Report
Steve reported that the letter writing campaign to city council from HARRA members and park users seems to be generating some movement by city councilmen to get more information on the status ofthe project. Be met with Rick DeWeese and Bill Smith on October 2 and leamed that they are processing paperwork for acquisition of materials for trail improvement. Cost estimate is $65,000 for a 4-inch thick, 8-foot wide trail. It was suggested by Bill Smith ofthe Parks Department that a member of the BARRA board sit on the Memorial Park Advisory Committee so that the group would be more in touch with the needs ofthe park users.
The proposal for BARRA to become an affinity group with Uniglobe Travel for the purpose of organizing group trips to out-of-town races was brought to a vote and unanimously approved by the board. A BARRA member will be appointed to liaison with Uniglobe and help select travel destinations. I
Steve called for three nominations for the 1996 RRCA National Volunteer Award. The volunteers must each have contributed at least 2000 hours of volunteer service to their club through the years. Out of six names submitted the board voted to nominate Tom McBrayer, Bill Smith and Sadie Greenman to RRCA.
Treasurer's Report
Jack Lippincott reported that HARRA suffered a paper loss for the month of September. Expenses from the 100-Mile Relay continued to come in although most the income was booked in August. Income from equipment rental from races in September was not in until the first of October. Clubs Report
Roger Boak declared the "Practice for the Tour de Bayou",which ended October 10, a success with a total of 60 non-repeating participants and an average turnout of 33.25 persons per race: ,. A small but enthusiastic group and only 2 twisted ankles".
Three new running clubs have paid their HARRA dues: Texas Running Club, St. Joseph' s Hospital and Brazos Area Road Runners Association.
Communications Report
The November-December issue of Footprints will be in the mail the last week of October and will include the 20K results as well as more ads.
Road Race Management
Chiquita Taylor explained the Spring Challenge, a participation award system designed to increase participation in the Spring series races. Two levels of awards are available: Level 1 includes only runners who participate in all 5 races ofthe series and who are eligible for the grand prize drawing; Level 2 includes runners who have participated in a minimum oftwo races, with each race earning /~ the runner a chance to win a level 2 prize to be supplied by the Spring series races. Prizes would be awarded at the road relay at the end of the series.
The Cross Country Relay was described as an excellent effort. Comments included praise for the great mariachi band, and concern that the EMTs, although present, were not easily identifiable. The hand-off zone was a zone of collision for some runners due to the speed of the downhill runners.
The men's 100 Mile Relay is scheduled for August 23, 1997 and will probably include an open, masters, veterans, and other team. A series of 1 Mile races leading up to the relay is being considered.
Mick Midkiff, race director for the Tomball Country Classic, asked the board whether a 12K distance would be acceptable in place of the 15K. This distance would make it possible for the race to be considered by the USATF Association for the 1997 National Masters 12K Championship, since the 15K has already been awarded. Discussion ensued but there was no serious feeling against such a change.
Race directors from the 20K were in attendance but the 20K evaluation had not been finalized at meeting time. Informal comments were complimentary, but suggestions were made to separate the water table areas from the mile markers and to add an additional water stop and get the results out a little faster.
Membership
Applications for current and 1997 membership will be available at all warm-up series races. Roger Boak is working on the transfer of membership files from D-Base to Access. There are 1800 current members and 900 expired members. There was discussion about sending out reminders to expired 1996 members in the new year.
Other Business
Steve Costello showed drawings ofthe proposed 8-lane track for Memorial Park. This project would be funded by private donations.
Ed McKenney reported on the Southern Region RRCA meeting held in conjunction with the Peachtree Classic RRCA lSK Championship. The 1997 annual meeting will be held in Colorado Springs and Steve Scott has been invited as the keynote speaker. RRCA will have a certification program for coaches. HARRA road race guidelines were held up as a standard all race directors should follow.
Debra Kempler-Smith discussed the status of the Student Run Houston Program. Houston Masters plans to donate funds to BARRA for students at Sam Houston High School who are training for the Downtown SOOO. The funds, estimated at $SI per child, will buy each participant in the training program a t-shirt, a pair of new shoes, race entries for practice races and for the Downtown SOOO. Davis High School has three SK runners, and seven students training for the marathon who wIll be funded by HARRA at a rate of$86.S0 per person, the increase due to the higher cost of the marathon and warm-up series entries. .
Debra Kempler-Smith made her proposal to the board for her company to handle merchandising of HARRA-logo clothing. Ten percent of sales would go to HARRA paid on a quarterly basis. The clothing line would include a white coolmax singlet, shorts, sports bra, polo shirt, denim shirt, and low profile cap, as well as other discretionary items. The board voted in favor of the proposal.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at/:40 p.m.. ,/// .#//.." ,..; ,. (/';.-. MINUTES OF THE HOUSTON AREA ROAD RUNNERS ASSOCIATION MEETING ~, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1996
The November 18,1996 meeting of the Houston Area Road Runners Association was called to order by President Steve Costello in the Panhandle Eastern Corporation conference room at 6:05 p.m. The following members of the Board of Directors were present: Steve Costello - President, Roger Boak Vice President of Clubs, Jerry Smith - Vice President of Communications, Chiquita Taylor - Vice President of Road Race Management, Camille Yarbrough - Secretary, Debra Kempler-Smith - At , Large (Membership), Tom McBrayer - At Large, Lisa D' Angelo - At Large, Donna Rickenbacker At Large, and Paul Cooley - At Large. Also in attendance were Joy Smith, John McCleery, Bill Smith, Suzanne Swift, David Glenn, Ron Morgan, Randy Carlson, Mick Midkiff, Walt Sklenar, Bill Hadley, Richard Gruen, Jamie Rickenbacker, Jane Bla.'1d and William VeSpe.
President's Report
,Steve Costello met with parks officials and again discussed the urgency for trail improvements. He was told that as soon as bids have been finalized for materials the parks staff will rebuild the trail. A rough estimate for timing would be sometime after the marathon. A notice will be posted at the park showing date improvements will begin and soliciting donations. Alex Galbraith and a parks staff member viewed the trail together looking at critical areas which are supposed to be repaired immediately.
Several dates have been proposed by Ed Sehl for a Tuesday evening run on the golf cart paths through the Memorial Park golf course, but no date has been selected. The idea of a golf course run was first brought up at our July 15 meeting.
Treasurer's Report
None.
Clubs Report
Roger Boak reported that 639 current HARRA members finished the 20K out of a total 2475 finishers. There were 92 teams of which 39 were from Houston Fit. Ten For Texas had 515 HARRA member finishers. Up-to-date runner of the year results will be at the park soon.
Communications Report
Jerry Smith encouraged anyone with interesting or unusual stories about people who are planning to run the Houston Marathon or the Downtown 5000 to contact Megan Mastal at (713) 752-1900. Megan is with Hill and Knowlton, a public relations firm which is trying to come up with some feature ideas for marathon promotion. Jerry and Joy Smith, Chiquita Taylor, and Debra Kempler-Smith have written a letter to Runner's World with a copy to RRCA to inform them of the ground rules HARRA used for the 100 mile relay and the requirements by the Guinness Book of World Records for world record status. This letter was precipitated by a comment printed in the Runner's World December issue from the Syracuse Chargers Track Club, former record holders in the 1DO-mile open women's relay, who commented that not all relay runners in the Houston race were members ofthe same club, when in fact they were all members ofHARRA on race day.
Road Race Management
The 20K race was given an overall great rating as it had met all the minimum requirements. Chiquita Taylor had unofficially commented on the race at the previous HARRA meeting. Race director Walt Sklenar said that his club had put forth its best effort of all time, and complimented Gallery Furniture, who helped out even more than usual, and Joy Smith for her assistance with the invited women.
Ten for Texas met most of the minimum requirements. Main criticisms were that direction banners to the start were felt to be inadequate; police protection was needed on North Panther Creek Drive; and a mile marker was nested in a water station. The 25K evaluation was not yet available, but generally guidelines had been met despite uncooperative weather which caused 5 runners to require hospital treatment. All 5 went home okay.
The 1997 Spring Series bids were presented and approved by a unanimous board vote. Mick Midkiff presented the bid for the Tomball Country Classic to be held on February 22, with a new distance of 12K and a new start time of 8:00 a.m. Baker Hughes mailed in their bid for the 10K to be held March 15. Jane Bland and Richard Gruen represented the Law Week 8K, and said their race will start at 8:00 a.m., 20 minutes earlier than previous years. Camille Yarbrough presented the Bellaire Trolley Run bid for the 5K. No bids were made for the Hour Run and the Bayou Bash.
The men's 100 Mile Relay, scheduled for August 23, 1997, will prepare a budget for approval at the next board meeting. St. Joseph's Hospital is being offered title sponsorship.
Donna Rickenbacker discussed plans for the HARRA road mile championship. The race will serve as a means to generate income for future park trail improvements. The course will be a straight mile on Memorial Drive, probably starting somewhere near Waugh Drive and finishing near Sabine Bridge.
Membership
Debra Kempler-Smith reported that eight new memberships were signed up at the 25K packet pick up. A poster ofHARRA membership benefits has been prepared by Jerry Smith and will be enlarged to set up at events. Bill Hadley suggested HARRA make up a demographics chart to show who our runners are. Other Business
Jerry Smith introduced Jamie Rickenbacker and William Vespe who will be working with the new HARRA web page on the Internet. Jamie has developed the initial page and established the domain name, HARRA.org , on the international database. The cost for $100 for 2 years to maintain the domain name was approved by the HARRA board. Jamie agreed to host the domain, while William Vespe will maintain the page which will eventually carry race dates and results, HARRA membership applications and information, HARRA logo apparel sales and other HARRA-related items.
Chiquita Taylor reported that several incidences of indecent exposure by the same person have taken place under the Waugh overpass on the Memorial Drive side of the bayou trail.
Donna Rickenbacker asked for a status report on the possibility of a HARRA member sitting on the Memorial Park Advisory Board. Steve Costello replied that the advisory board is planning a revision of its bylaws, and when they are finalized and accepted by the city then the matter of a BARRA member on board will be considered. Donna also wanted to know what would happen in regard to the individuals nominated as our outstanding volunteers at the last meeting. Steve said that they would be sent a certificate from RRCA, and suggested that in future we do more to acknowledge our local volunteers.
Complaints were voiced about the level of service at Loopers and the fact that often no one is available to take purchases in the early morning. The HARRA wall in the tennis center is still not yet completed. Roger Boak will follow up with Bert McConn.
Steve Costello announced that his company will participate in the Student Run Program with Stephen F. Austin students, and encouraged all running clubs to take on the challenge.
Mick Midkiffreported on business at the Gulf Association ofUSATF. President Dave Bethany and membership secretary Eric Porter have been accused ofa number of infractions. Mick called for the president's resignation, due to his breach oftrust, in the organization's November 2nd meeting. Mr. Bethany refused to resign so Mick felt it necessary to alert the national organization.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:48 p.m.. MINUTES OF THE HOUSTON AREA ROAD RUNNERS ASSOCIATION MEETING MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 1996
The December 16, 1996 meeting ofthe Houston Area Road Runners Association was called to order by President Steve Costello in the third floor Panhandle Eastern Corporation conference room at 6: 10 p.m. The following members of the Board of Directors were present: Steve Costello, Roger Boak, Jerry Smith, Jack Lippincott, Camille Yarbrough, Lisa D'Angelo, Donna Rickenbacker, and Steve Sievert. Also in attendance were Joy Smith, John McCleery, Mike Daniels and Andy Stewart.
President's Report
Three areas of the Memorial Park trail have been patched with some of the Parks Department's excess trail material as an interim improvement until major improvements can take place. The city council will meet January 8 and is expected to approve some $293,000 for materials for citywide parks and recreation improvements including the projected $75,000 cost for the Memorial Park trail. Work on the trail could begin as early as mid-January.
Treasurer's Report
Net income for the month was $1052.93 including $2000 in restricted donations already allocated to the student nin program. Jack Lippincott reported that our Treasury bills have matured and, since interest rates are compressed at this time, perhaps another investment strategy could be explored. It was suggested that 3-month and 6-month investments be considered rather than 90-day investments to get a better return on the money.
Clubs Report
Roger Boak reported that 905 current HARRA members have participated in the fall races to date, comprising 26-27% oftotal finishers in the fall series. All four ofthe races have been completed by 175 HARRA members.
Communications Report
Jerry Smith said that Will Vespe will have a new HARRA web page design in the next few weeks.
The Texas state meeting ofRRCA will take place on Saturday afternoon, January 11, at the Houston Marathon expo. Don Kardong, current president ofRRCA, and Carol McLatchie, women's chair ofLD racing, will be the featured speakers.
Regional coaching workshops led by Roy Benson will be set up to train _people to be coaches. One club in each RRCA region will be selected to host the workshops. Road Race Management
The 30K race was rated as an overall fine effort as it had met all the minimum requirements. Constructive criticism included the need to relieve congestion at the first water station. Andy Stewart reported that 1908 runners toed the start line.
The 25K was declared a great race for the Houston Masters. More volunteers needed at water stations and fewer loops on Memorial Drive were the main comments aside from bad weather jokes.
Terlingua Track club's bid for the One Hour Run was approved by the board. The run will take place Wednesday, March 5, at Kincaid track. Two heats will begin at 6:00 p.m. and 7: 15 p.m.
The men's 100 Mile Relay, scheduled for August 23,1997, may have its records challenged by a similar relay in Wisconsin on the same day. Donna Rickenbacker has prepared a draft proposal for the One Mile Race to be held one week before the relay in August and to consist ofeight to ten heats including one noncompetitive heat.
Membership
HARRA will have a table to renew and sign up members at the Marathon Expo to be held January ,~ 10-12. The Expo will be open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday at the George R. Brown Convention Center. A sign-up sheet was passed around during the meeting for members to volunteers for working 4-hour segments at the HARRA table.
Other Business
The Student Run program had six participants in the 30K and 35 in the Jingle Bell Run. The Student Run kids will be given a discount of$5 for the Downtown 5000 and $10 for the marathon.
There was some discussion about the equipment rental fees as they applied to the Houston Marathon which seems to believe it should be exempt.
Banners with club logos or other information can be purchased through Debra Kempler-Smith at a 50% savings.
Concern about the food concession at Memorial Park was expressed. Bert McConn, who holds the concession, has possession of some of the HARRA awards plaques which were to be mounted on the display wall in the tennis center. Roger Boak will contact McConn and retrieve the plaques.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m..