KC Trailblazers

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In September, 1978 an organizational committee met at the Carriage Club. The committee was appointed by the residing President, Stan Miller, of ERC. The committee determined that we would initiate an organization to enhance friendship and goodwill among long term employees and retirees. The organization would also provide a mechanism for mutual self-help of members during their employment and continuing after retirement supported by the $10.00 annual membership dues. In addition, the organization would be used to provide for charitable projects and community outreach programs.

In 1979 the Board of Directors and Officers were appointed by the committee, with annual nominations and elections taking place each October for the upcoming year. Each year the organization has three scheduled events.

An annual dinner meeting for all members is conducted each October. The dinner meeting allows for member voting for new officers and directors and updates on both past and future events. This dinner is restricted to members only since the Corporation graciously pays for it.

In December each year we have a Christmas party, which is held in the ERC cafeteria. A charge of $5.00 per person for each member and their guest is requested to cover expenses for appetizers and drinks. Occasionally a shortfall exists and the Company has made up any shortfall if this amount fails to be sufficient.

In July the Company provides the Trailblazers lunch in the cafeteria and our CEO has given the members a "state of the Company" address. This is always enjoyed, especially by the retirees, as it is their main mechanism to keep in touch with the workings and changes within the Company.

In the past 20 years the Trailblazers have provided temporary assistance to employees, sponsored numerous families at Christmas and provided assistance to local charities. Our goal is to continue with these sponsorships with priority to Trailblazers and current employees.

Each year the Trailblazers try to schedule events or trips the members are interested in. The locations have varied, for example some of the trips we have had were to Hermann and St. Charles in Missouri, Lindsborg and Abilene, Kansas, Eureka Springs, Arkansas and Pella, Iowa. We have also had outings to dinner theaters, Royals baseball, race tracks and local casinos.