July 30, 2010

Dear Race Fans,

On behalf of the Trenton Rotary Club and the Executive Committee for the 2010 PNC Roar on the River, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for the outpouring of support, encouragement, and generosity offered after our 60th annual event. Twelve months of planning and preparation were derailed by the unusually strong storms that passed through the area just as our kick-off “Taste of the Races” started. While we were devastated by the evacuation that was necessary and the property losses suffered, we are eternally grateful that no injuries or casualties were reported.

The Trenton Rotary Club, chartered in 1937, has assisted with the Trenton boat races since 1974 as a service to the community. During that time it has evolved from two days of boat racing with hot dogs, beverages, and snow cones to a three-day weekend including World Championship outboard powerboat racing, a taste fest, evening concerts, fireworks, classic car shows, family entertainment, and a concession smorgasbord.

However, while much has changed, we have been able to keep the event free and open to all that want to attend. We have done this by partnering with Wayne County Parks, City of Trenton, over 150 business sponsors, and 200 volunteers. To help offset costs, we request a parking donation at the entrance to Elizabeth Park, sell tickets to the “Taste of the Races,” and offer food, beverage, and merchandise sales throughout the weekend. Any profits generated from the boat races are retained by the Trenton Rotary Club to maintain and expand the event or have been donated back to the community or to charities addressing a specific need such as Rotary’s fight to eradicate Polio.

Shortly after the start of the “Taste of the Races” the storms hit requiring an evacuation due to the threatening weather conditions. Since then, several inquiries have been made regarding refunds for the “Taste” tickets. When faced with difficult situations, Rotarians turn to Rotary’s “Four Way Test” which asks 1) Is it the truth? 2) Is it fair to all concerned? 3) Will it build goodwill and better friendships? 4) Will it be beneficial to all concerned? Therefore, after careful consideration and based on detailed records of tickets distributed, we offer the following options:

1. Redemption of purchased 2010 tickets for the 2011 “Taste of the Races” tickets.
2. Refund of purchased 2010 tickets within 90 days.
3. Sponsor tickets are available for redemption option with special benefactor recognition made in 2011 race promotion campaign.

Refund and redemption requests will be honored upon completion of the refund/redemption request form available online Monday, August 1, 2010, or by calling 734-675-0266 ext. 0.

We would like to thank everyone for their support and look forward to seeing you next year.

Sincerely,