From the Greater Excellence in Education Foundation:
Greater Excellence in Education Foundation is hosting its 2nd Annual Digital 5K Run to raise funds for technology for students in need to ensure equal learning opportunities for all students.
On Saturday, September 10 from 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm, the Greater Excellence in Education Foundation (GEEF) is hosting its 2nd annual Digital 5K Run and Walk. The proceeds from this event will benefit technology for students in need in Harford County Public Schools. Last year’s inaugural event engaged over 200 attendees and provided 17 tablets with keyboards to students in need.
This family-oriented night time event will leave you glowing from head to toe! Individuals and groups registered by August 25 are guaranteed to receive a Digital 5k t-shirt, glow necklace and glow bracelet to get you started in lighting up the night. Glow face painting will be available. Whether you are an avid runner, first time 5K’er, or just want to take a fabulous night time stroll on the Ma & Pa Trail, you set your own pace for the run. Costumes are encouraged, so come wearing your most outrageous neon getup and receive a special glow item.
“We are not only excited about hosting an event that celebrates Harford County as a community of learners”, said Deb Merlock, President of the Greater Excellence in Education Foundation, “but the money raised from the event will give students who are economically challenged the same technology tools their peers use every day in their home to raise the level of learning,”
The Digital 5K course will have designated parts of the course with glow zones and lighting effects. Come for the 5k, but stay for the glowing after party! Dance the night away under the black lights and lasers with a DJ spinning Top 40 hits. Food trucks will be there for an additional price. You won’t want this fun one-of-a-kind night to end!
The Digital 5K run will start by weaving through the Equestrian Center complex before hitting the Ma & Pa Trail towards Annie’s Playground. Runners will hit the turnaround point on the trail, and head back towards the Equestrian Center with a turnaround to the return to the finish line. Finish line timing is provided by Elite Race Management.
More information and registration at www.geefinc.com or www.eliteracemanagement.com/geef5k.
I’ll participate and donate money to this worthy cause if you can promise me that I don’t have to listen to Deb M. speak. Besides, haven’t we outlawed torture in our society. 🙂
Mary, there is nothing like a meaningful, well thought-out and pertinent comment. I have been trying to recall exactly how it is that, out of the goodness of your heart, you, Mary, contribute to our community, students or anyone else. For 12 years, Deb has poured her heart and soul into the Greater Excellence in Education Foundation. In so doing she has helped innumerable Harford County students reach new limits.
Wasn’t doubting her service or dedication. Was accurately pointing out that her self-absorbed, aimless, ramblings weaken the credibility of a great cause. And her constantly making jokes about how she mispronounces teachers’ names (instead of investing a few minutes- before the event to learn the pronunciation) is downright lazy, self-centered, and disrespectful). Since so many folks agree with this assessment, you may want to consider how many more students could “reach new limits” if you took responsibility for that as an overseer and adjust responsibilities accordingly. GEEF is good; Could be great; your call.
Your first post came off as pretty mean spirited, both to Deb M. and her cause. You’re withholding your support as “ransom” for her not to speak? Your second post seemed to continue the personal attack. I have never heard her speak, so I can’t say I’m one of the “so many folks [who] agree with this assessment.” You are saying she is dedicated but apparently not a good speaker? That does not seem like a very good reason to deny support to a “great cause.” Maybe she truly has some sort of learning or speaking challenge? Maybe you could help her realize and correct the fact that she’s (apparently) the reason GEEF is good, but not great.
Worked w Deb in previous capacity. Not spectacular. Sorry but maybe there needs to be a more dynamic representative.