2003 Teenage/Junior Nationals: $1000.00 World Team Donation if we host on May 24,25

The Baton Rouge Sports Foundation (whose primary responsibility is to attract national events to Baton Rouge) has guaranteed a $1000.00 World Team Donation if we host the 2003 Teenage/Junior Nationals on the weekend of May 24,25 (Memorial Day weekend). The following weekend is out (May 31, June 1)because of the Womens World Championships.

At the National Meeting I was asked to change this date to June 7,8 (which I can do, but not at the Raddison Hotel- due to another major event on the weekend of June 7,8).

The Raddison has agreed to lower Room Rates to $69.00 IF we host the meet on the Memorial Day weekend. This is definitely a first class venue as all will see who come to the Masters Nationals earlier that month. I've also locked in this site for the Mens Nationals in 2004.

I need feedback ASAP. If we can not host on May 24,25. I will move on to one of three secondary sites that I have scouted out.

We have talked about ways of generating additional money for the organization. This a guaranteed $1000.00 for the Junior World Team. I am also planning the same for the Masters Team (if the Room pick up matches that of the Nationals in Richmond,VA). My only stipulation for the team donation is that the money directly benefit the lifters (uniforms, entry fees, meals, etc.).