Bright Friends – Brighter Future (VB)

This morning, together with 51 other November Project cities, we showed up before the break of dawn for our morning workouts wearing paint on our chest and shades on our face. The end of summer is drawing near, and the morning sunlight is getting later and later. Alas, sunglasses adorned our beautiful mugs as a sign of togetherness and community. The people of November Project come in all shapes, sizes and colors; kinda like our shades. Some are funky, colorful and wild; while others are classic, modern, and chill. No matter what, they all do the same thing, serve the same purpose, and look totally awesome when brought together. The future is BRIGHT for this movement. So bright, you better wear shades!

On the bright future topic, we sadly said goodbye to two of our great NPVB friends. Scott Ward is a well known name in the running community and his SWRC propaganda can be found on cars, water bottles and shirts everywhere. This man is the definition of community support and connection. He has created numerous club challenges and other events aimed at bringing anyone and everyone together. His wild selfies and crazy race singlets are only a glimpse into the amazing person that is Scott Ward. He may have a REALLY hard time waking up in the morning, but you can guarantee his love of November Project runs deep. We’ll miss you friend.

We also say goodbye to our dear friend Kathleen Hogan who is leaving us to bring brains & brawn to the people down south. KK may not be the loudest or craziest at the workouts, but that’s because she is working so hard busting her ass each morning. Kathleen and Taylor always seem to be Hoisteeing in the corner, covered in sweat and grass clippings. She can also be found most Wednesday evenings and some Friday mornings (eh hem) throwing down miles with our friends at the Norfolk Run Club. We know you will continue to spread your badass spirit wherever you go and hope you’ll visit us soon!

~Love Jill

The first thing I thought when I saw Kathleen was holy crap she is fast. Then I found out she was getting her doctorate from EVMS and I thought holy crap she’s so smart. Once I actually got to talk to her and know her I found out that not only is she smart and fast, but hilarious, kind and a great person. She shows up and works her ass off and encourages others to do the same. I’m going to miss her shenanigans with Taylor, but I know Texas is gaining another star.

I knew of Scott before I ever met him. He was this mystical local running celebrity that was fast as hell and somehow seemed to be at every race. His love for the running community shows through every thing he does. Scott’s charitable nature and the amount he gives to others is unmatched. The 757 is not going to be the same without him.

~Cory

Kathleen, You will definitely be missed when you leave. You are such a big part of November project and I am genuinely sad to see you go. You always had the best attitude and the biggest smile on your face no matter how hard the workout or shitty the weather conditions. I wish you the best of luck in all that you do. Please know that if you ever decide to go on vacation and leave the big state of Texas, NPVB will be here.

Scott, What can I say about a guy who loves to put his face on things? He must be crazy! You are all that and then some sir. A crazy supporter of friends, run clubs, and the community at large. The whole community will definitely feel your absence when you go, and it is a hard pill for me to swallow. I have personally appreciated all the support and love you have given me (and NP) and I wish there was a way for me to pay you back. I wish you the best of luck in your next chapter, cheers my friend!

~Bernard