Senate Resolution No. 2496

BY: Senator GRIFFO

COMMEMORATING the 75th Anniversary of Runnings

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize the
achievements of those individuals and businesses that contribute
substantially to the economic vitality of their communities, thereby
enhancing economic well-being of the entire Empire State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 75th Anniversary of Runnings; and

WHEREAS, On December 5, 1947, the very first Runnings store was
established by Norman "Red" Running in downtown Marshall, Minnesota, as
an automotive supply store rooted in selling farm and fleet supplies;
and

WHEREAS, The Running family owned Runnings until 1988, when a group
involving Dennis and Adele Reed purchased the company; the Reeds
expanded Runnings into a retail store, selling clothing, footwear,
sporting goods, lawn and garden equipment, toys, housewares, tools, pet
and animal supplies, and more; and

WHEREAS, Over the company's distinguished history, spanning 75
years, Dennis and Adele Reed grew the once-small storefront into an
empire of 57 stores in eight states, including Minnesota, South Dakota,
North Dakota, Iowa, Montana, New York, New Hampshire, and Connecticut,
with over 2,700 employees; they have expanded across New York, opening
stores in Canandaigua, Rome and Gloversville; and

WHEREAS, The success of Runnings is in direct correlation to the
efforts of its hardworking and dedicated staff, all of whom are
considered integral parts of the success of Runnings; their involvement
is, and always has been, characterized by an impressive commitment, an
unbridled enthusiasm, and an uncompromising standard of excellence in
all endeavors on behalf of the business and the community it serves; and

WHEREAS, It is with great pleasure that this Legislative Body
acknowledges this exceptional business, its contributions to the local
and state economies, and its vibrant role in improving the quality of
life in its community, fully confident that it will continue to enjoy
the sparkling successes it has experienced thus far; now, therefore, be
it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 75th Anniversary of Runnings; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Dennis and Adele Reed.