MINUTES FROM THE HOUSTON AREA ROAD RUNNERS ASSOCIATION
BOARD MEETING
OCTOBER 23, 2006
The following people were in attendance: Bob Hoekman, Paul Cooley, Anna Helm, Jon Walk, Tom McBrayer, Randy Carlson, Roger Boak and Annie Hadow.
Anna called the meeting to order at 6:05.
HMSA 25K: Paul Cooley demonstrated to the Board that the 25K is prepared to meet all HARRA race requirements.
Tom McBrayer brought up release form issues related to a potential lawsuit in a small town race in Texas. Do we need to update our required release form to include runner’s acceptance of responsibility for his or her own health and safety? Dr, Hoekman added that we may want to reconsider sign in policies at the Tours de Bayou.
Cross Country Relay Recap: all appeared to go smoothly at the event.
10 Miler Recap: all appeared to go smoothly with the exception of one water stop, which ran out of water for a brief time, but the situation was resolved quickly.
Tour De Bayou: Roger reported that the events are going fine, with 3 out of 4 complete. We are averaging 73 finishers per stage.
Just For Kids Run: Anna asked the Board how we would like to handle the Just For Kids Run. Randy suggested that we require all clubs to participate. Tom suggested that one club should spearhead it, get sponsors etc. After a brief discussion, the Board concluded that the race is a no go for 2006. Randy agreed to look into sponsorship. If we are successful in securing sponsorship, then we can work on finding a group or individual to take over directorship.
Footprints: Jon reported that he is waiting for the proof for the November issue. He is working on gathering stories for December right now. He is trying to profile HARRA members and to focus interest on HARRA events, clubs, and people in future issues.
Membership Report: No report.
Treasurer’s Report: Audrey e-mailed financials to the Board. She was unable to attend the meeting.
Website: Anna reported for Sarah that there are still a few glitches which Sarah is working to correct.
PIM: Anna reported for Jack. The program is in full swing. Attendance has been good this session and there have been several good speakers. The goal race is in 2 weeks.
VVIP: Anna reported that Cheryl has worked hard getting the list compiled. Her next step is to get gift cards for the winners.
Clubs: Roger informed the group that the Memorial Park Conservancy needs help with trail work. He suggested that we consider having trail work contribute toward Ironfoot or VVIP as incentive. The upcoming projects, which will use grant money, include a wilderness trail, disguise of drain pipe along the trail on Memorial Drive, lights in the tunnel to the Arboretum, and a wooden bridge in the triangle between Memorial Drive and Woodway.
Memorial Park Conservancy: Annie reported for Deb Taylor that there would be a field trip on November 10 to take a look at a few of the erosion problems on the trails. Any trail users are welcome. It is on a Friday, at noon.
CPR/AED: Dr. Hoekman reported no medical issues with the Cross Country Relay or the 10 Miler. The City of Houston has returned the FR2 defibrillator previously donated by HARRA. The City does not have the capability to update and support the unit. Dr. Hoekman has reprogrammed the FR2 and it will be used in the CPR/AED program. HARRA has purchased two new FRx defibrillators. Dr. Hoekman is searching for an update card for the two original Forerunner defibrillators. Communications have been improved with the addition of several more two way radios and a source of replacement batteries has been located.
Marathon Kids: Anna reported that 40 of the 90 volunteers were from HARRA and overall the event went smoothly.
Water Fountain: The Parks Board has decided to fund the water fountain, which a private donor had previously offered to fund.
Allen Parkway Bridge: Randy informed the group that major plans are in the works for this. It has been tough to fix due to the flooding.
There was no additional business to discuss. Anna adjourned the meeting at 7:55