To answer the question as to how many runners attend our jazz festival? In the beginning we offered reduced priced tickets to runners but sold few,if any. Then we offered free admission to our Saturday night's concert at LeClaire Park providing the runner wore a number, or whatever, around their neck to prove they ran in the race. Our reasons?
1. That runners might listen, like the music, and become traditional jazz converts.
2. That runners might buy a couple of beers and a sandwich to help our concession sales.
3. That runners might take a non-runner companion who would pay the full admission price.
The results? Maybe a few runners that fit the number two category.
Fact # 1. If questioned, the majority of people in Davenport really think that Bix was a runner.
Fact # 2. While taking my drivers test this year, the woman who was to administer the test, glanced at my licence plate (BIXNME) and exclaimed, "Oh, you run in the race!" Fortunately, I held my tongue, passed the test, and went home and kicked my dog.
(Only, I don't have a dog but if I did I'd name him Runner.)