THE
WICKED
Running Register
July/August 2015 • Priceless
Est. Jan 2010
Presidential Perspective Michael Harvey
In 1964 Bob Dylan famously penned the lyric, “The times they are a changing’”. In the case of the Wicked Running Club, I am going to paraphrase Dylan and say, “The times they have a changed”. For years the club enjoyed a wonderful relationship with the city of Salem through the Parks and Recreation director (and a founding member of Wicked) Doug Bollen. The relationship was only strengthened by the fact that long time member and former Wicked president Tim Short served as the Activities Coordinator in that very same department. A few years ago, however, Doug left his position with the city to pursue other opportunities, and shortly after that, so did Tim. As many members may be aware, the change in leadership at Park and Recreation has had a direct effect on Wicked and how we operate within the city of Salem, some of which was a bit bumpy. The good news is that things have settled down, and the Wicked Running Club still enjoys a good relationship the city, albeit different. If all is well, then why am I writing about it now you might ask? The answer is simple. When Doug and Tim left Parks and Recreation, we lost more than we initially realized. Not only did we lose our advocates in that department, we lost our voice in city government as well. As a running club, we really can’t complain about changes in race fees,
cost of police detail, or any other host of issues that come up with regards to working with the city if we aren’t participating in the political process and making our voice heard. The Wicked Running Club contributes to the Salem community in many significant ways. Our races bring in hundreds of tourist from out of town who spend their money at local business. Proceeds from Miles Over the Moon go to a local track team each year to help fund equipment purchases. The Frosty Four funds thousands of dollars in scholarships to local college students. These are no small accomplishments. This realization came to light at the September Board of Directors meeting, and the board members all agreed that we need a presences and a voice in local government. We think the best way to accomplish this is would be through a new non-board position, City of Salem Liaison. Like politics? Like city government? Love running and the Wicked Running Club? Want to make a difference? If you answered “yes” to all or most of these questions, The Wicked Running Club needs you. We are looking for someone to fill this position. What the exact duties will be have yet to be determined, but if you think you might be interested, please contact me or any board member and let us know. Who better to help “run” local government than a running club? Go Wicked!
Michael
Race Review by Eileen Spear
The courir-saint-bruno has a 1k 2k 5k 10k and 20k. Really fun, distance for all. Scenic trail style running through a national park about 30mn from Montreal. http://www.courir-saint-bruno. ca/ I ran the 10k. I would give the race 4 cats….only reason it is not 5 is that registration closes out quickly so difficult to get a last minute spot. Organizers great and post race snacks and atmosphere also great.