As the Journal-News reported on May 25th, the Great Miami Rowing Center (GMRC) is established and is "on the water!" During this past spring, 49 students from high schools that included Hamilton, Ross, Lakota, Talawanda, and Mason participated in the GMRC Youth program. In addition, 41 adults participated in "Learn to Row" classes that are open to the community at large, and 6 college students enrolled in a new rowing program at Miami University Hamilton.

This high level of participation in a brand new initiative is evidence that a rowing program on the Great Miami River will succeed and will continue to grow. The section of the river in downtown Hamilton provides a superb venue for rowing and is an untapped asset. The Great Miami has long been a commercial and industrial resource. It also can serve as a valuable sports and recreational attraction for Butler County and can enhance economic activity by bringing new visitors to the riverfront for rowing events.

Your assistance is needed now in this critical phase of the GMRC's development. In order to maintain the positive momentum, we are asking selected businesses and individual donors to help with program capital and operating costs until the funds raised through rower memberships and fundraising efforts make the center self-sustaining. Our goal is $50,000. Please consider making a tax-deductible gift of $100 or more, though gifts of any size are welcome. Stock asset transfers can be arranged. The non-profit GMRC maintains a fund at the Hamilton Community Foundation. The Foundation has been supportive of the initiative and has contributed to the very successful first year of operation.

Rowing is one of the fastest growing sports in America. As a sport rooted in tradition, rowing is embraced by thousands of colleges, high schools and communities across the country. Participants of all ages are drawn to the harmony, teamwork, and physical effort required to power the narrowest of boats across water. You can learn more about the GMRC by visiting our website: www.greatmiamirowing.com

We hope you will decide to help us as we continue the "launching" of a great new program!