The Johnson, Vorhees & Martucci law firm has been a strong supporter and premier sponsor of the Joplin Memorial Run for many, many years. However, this year JVM wants the community to know that JVM does not support the decision to have this event during the pandemic. This event violates the CDC guidelines for mass gatherings. Specifically, as cases of COVID-19 continue to rise in our area and hospitals are reporting more inpatient cases of COVID than ever, JVM has urged the organizers to not move forward with this race.
Please know that JVM continues to support JMR and honor the memories of those hurt or killed in the 2011 Joplin Tornado. JVM also remains committed to encouraging healthy lifestyles and community events. However, JVM does not believe that it honors or respects the memories of those harmed by the tornado or our healthy community goals by needlessly exposing one another to an increased risk of illness or death. JVM has not asked for any sponsorship money back, and JVM does plan to sponsor and encourage community events in the future. But, right now – JVM does not support having this type of mass gatherings. Run on your own, do a virtual race, use a treadmill, etc.
Be safe, JVM will see you on a run next year!
