Thank You Joella Richard Baker!!!

Get Fit Families' Run and Tri Club Pay Tribute to Our Difference Maker    

- by Your Athletes

Reflecting on the Year in Review article you compiled and published for us in last week's newsletter, it's clear our club has come quite a long way over the past couple of years. The now 328 strong Dawn Crackers athletes have a lot to be thankful for, and to be proud of, individually and collectively.

We feel strongly that the common thread that ties all of our accomplishments together is the time, dedication, knowledge, motivation, and leadership that you bring to the club and to each of us individually. With the group's 2010 Year in Review accomplishments as a backdrop, your athletes, your friends, wanted to express to you what a difference you have made for each of us – as our coach, our mentor, our sister, and our very dear friend.

If there's a single theme that resonates across all of our "Joella stories", it's how you have helped each of us see beyond our self-perceived barriers, and go out there and accomplish so much more than we ever thought possible!  So, to anyone reading this who may not think you're ready to break through your own barriers and reach new heights in your physical, emotional, and spiritual life ... read on.  Make the move in 2011, and give get Fit Families Run and Tri Club a tryout!

Joella, you are our difference maker -- YOU ARE TRULY LOVED! ... enjoy.

Little did I know that taking a spin class a couple of years ago would change my life. That is when I first met Joella.  She has inspired me to run many 5k races, several ½ marathons, and complete two sprint triathlons. Besides the many health benefits, the Dawn Crackers and the club have become a very important part of my social life. This year I plan to do an Olympic Triathlon and a Full Marathon in the fall. I could never have done any of this without Joella! - Kathy Blinn

I finally decided to write to you !!! I'm always afraid because is so hard for me to write in English but I know you will understand me ... I meant to write before the beginning of this new year just to tell you how much my life change after I met you !!! You have been my inspiration and strength for all the things I do and the running club is the best !!! I think about you guys at least one time a day and how disciplined and strong you are !!! You are amazing !!! I remember the very first time I ran and I liked it from the beginning, but of course you can imagine how bad I did !! ... Now that I am training with the best ( you ) I love it !! and [running] is becoming a very important part of my life !!! I almost can say that now I run more than I play my cello !!!  Anyway I just wanted to say that you were one of the best things happened to me last year and I'm thankful for all you have taught me all this time !!! I miss you and I will be more than ready to start again when I come back !!! Hugs !!!  - Gloria Caceres

From a 4:20 marathon in 2009, to a 3:12 (and as of now, Boston Qualified) a year and a half later.  From going it alone, to becoming a regular (albeit sometimes a little too profane) member of the Dawn Crackers.  I've been running for nearly 25 years and rarely have I encountered such a passionate, caring motivational force as Joella.  She's created a team that has fun competing, cares about each other, and keeps moving forward.  She speaks to us as a group, yet takes the time to reach us individually (not easy considering all of our idiosyncrasies). I would be willing to guess that while impressive, the sum total of our collective 2010 achievements are incidental when you consider the depth of the preparation and dedication of "The Boss".

Joella, I sincerely thank you for creating and being the glue for this thing of ours (to steal a mafia reference), for putting big audacious goals in front of me, and yes for giving me a good swift kick when I need it! – jamcarr – (aka Jim Carr)

I can still remember when I wrote down Joella's contact information from the white board in the YMCA 2 years ago.  When I sent the email to her expressing interest in joining a "running group" I could never have imagined the impact sending that email would have on my life.  It is crazy to think about the thousands of miles I have logged with the folks in this group running and most recently on the bike.  The continual running and biking for the health is really just a minor side effect to having been part of this group.   The relationships that I have developed as part of this group are something that has been extremely profound to me, Alexis and our kids.  Additionally, seeing all the new members joining the group and being able to watch the incredible strides all the members make is super cool.  Joella - thank you for everything you have done for Alexis and I.  I will never forget the 9hrs and 51minutes we shared together during Rachael Carson 2010...I will let someone else share in the joy this year!!!  - Rick Colonello

I first heard of Joella and the Dawn Crackers club through Debbie Gallagher. Deb's running had not so mysteriously improved after joining the club and she was dusting me every time out. Shortly after starting with the group, Joella graciously offered to 'take me on as a project'. I wasn't sure what to make of being a project, but I was preparing to run my first marathon and had no idea if it was feasible. Not like I had much choice, but I took the bait - fortunately! That race was a pretty big success for me at 4:06.00, and now I'm into full-on training mode to complete a Half-Ironman as my big goal for 2011. I have a long haul to go, but someday "I will be an Ironman" and I'm betting Joella is going to get me there.  One year ago, before training under Joella's direction, I would have never dreamed it, let alone declared it! I feel incredibly blessed to have connected with such a caring person, knowledgeable coach, and tremendous leader. Thanks JB for everything you do!!!  – Chris Cullen

Strategic leadership is a process, not a position, and increasing numbers of individuals share in the responsibility of its development," say Richard Hughes and Katherine Colarelli Beatty in their book "Becoming a Strategic Leader." Joella's leadership is in her service, not in her position. She has impacted me personally by getting me to do things I didn't think I could do but has also impacted me by her role as a leader. The encouraging words come from her often and we all see how the whole group has taken on the responsibility to encourage each other. That's strategic leadership. And it's working well.  - Pami Dick

Joella is a constant. When things get difficult or I'm not sure what to do, she does. She has answers and inspiration to give, you just need to ask or you just need to listen. It's amazing how much your life can be changed by one individual who has affected so many others. It's not just running or run club that does it, it's what extra Joella puts into it that helps each of us get so much more out of it. I wouldn't be able to physically do what I do today without her and I thank you Joella from the bottom of my heart.  - Jen Do

I began competing in triathlons in 2009.  At the conclusion of my first season, I, some would say, foolishly decided to jump from the Sprint and Olympic distances to take on Ironman Louisville - a daunting task to a neophyte racer like me.  However, that fall I attended my high school class reunion.  I went to school with Scott Baker, and he got me in touch with Joella. Before I knew it I was logging more yards, miles, and hours than I thought I could do.  Not only did she get me physically and mentally prepared for this race, she was there at the end to see me cross the finish line.  Now, my time was less than spectacular, but I don't think I could have gone as far as I did without her help.  Thank you Joella!! I'm looking forward to the new season at setting some new PR's!!  - Rob Ekin

Where to begin? I met Joella in February 2009 soon after the group started. It was exactly one year after I had my 3rd child and I was looking to do something big that year. I had always been an athlete, but I needed a new challenge and I wanted to lose those last few baby pounds, so I decided to train for the Pittsburgh half marathon. A friend of mine told me about the group and one Saturday morning I showed up to run. There were about 6 or 7 other people that day, and back then that was considered a "large" group. From that very first day Joella had me doing things I never thought I could do. I had only planned to run 6 miles that day, but somehow Joella convinced me to run 8, my first 8 mile run EVER!  Needless to say, I was hooked after that and a couple months later I crossed the finish line holding Joella's hand in 1:54:00. She has truly been an inspiration to me and she continues to "convince" me to do things I never thought I could do. I can't imagine what this year will bring, but I'm looking forward to it. Thank you Joella!  

- Pam Fredericks

I first met Joella through the Cranberry Wave Swim Team.  Having distance swimming in common, I liked her from the start!  We would swim together once in a while, and we would cheer for each other at meets.  Our friendship changed one afternoon when I was heading into the fitness room to run on the treadmill and she was heading down into the spinning room.  She called to me from the stairs to try spin.  I decided to give it a try, and I was hooked.  Before the formation of the Dawn Crackers, Joella helped to organize my training to become more efficient and effective.  I have gone from a casual runner, to a focused marathon runner, to a dedicated triathlete in a short amount of time.  Eight marathons and a Half-Ironman later, I am feeling better than ever.  I know that Joella will be with me throughout all 140.6 miles in September.  THANK YOU!  - Jeremiah Friday

In the late winter of 2008 as the Pittsburgh Half Marathon was approaching, Joella so kindly offered to meet a few us at 5:30 a.m. in the Y parking lot to do some interval work.  That was my first introduction to hill repeats after 20 years of running.  As much as I wasn't a big fan of intervals and hill repeats, I learned in a very short period of time that they were a difference maker.  I learned very quickly that Joella was a wealth of knowledge when it came to fitness and was so generously ready to share it.  I know that I have achieved a certain level of fitness due to the continued support of Joella.  As we move into 2011, I have a real challenge for myself and Joella—the POOL. Thanks Coach! – Deb Gallagher

I met Joella through Alice Wiesner as she kept telling me about this amazing woman leading a bunch of runners and triathletes who was also training for her first Ironman as well.  We first met on a rainy day during a group run and have been great friends ever since.  She helped me out a ton in getting ready for my first Ironman and at the end of 2009 I decided to have her be my coach and to help me get to the next level.  2010 was a tough year but to have Joella there by my side and to continue to push and motivate me was phenomenal.  Having her there at the end of the 2010 Ironman Louisville was so special and it was an honor to race with her at Long Course Nationals this year and both earn slots to Team USA where we'll compete against the best of the best this year on a very tough course while representing our country.  Thanks so much Joella for all of your help and for starting up the Dawn Crackers, which has been a huge factor for so many of us in terms of training, motivation, pushing us all to our next level and allowing us to spend quality time with friends.  Thanks Coach!!!    - Jason Jacobs

I first met Joella at a Zelienople Chamber Meeting. Joella impressed me because she talked about getting people healthy through exercise and her Get Fit Families organization. Immediately upon talking to her I felt like I had met someone who would and could push me towards my goals. I made the mistake of mentioning that I had run half marathons before, but wanted to run a full marathon someday. Immediately Joella told me when to start meeting with the group. I started almost exactly one year ago and I can already say that because of her passion for getting other people to achieve their goals, I have already achieved that goal by running the Erie full marathon with a time of 4:17. Thank you for your time and dedication to all of us!   – Amanda Jordan

I met Joella through a mutual friend, Christen Sauer, who works at Trek of Cranberry.  The first day I met her she offered to help me become a better athlete with no questions asked.  I have never met anyone in my entire athletic career, competitive or professional at Nike, who is so giving of her time.  Joella truly wants to see every athlete she works with get better.  That doesn't mean she will sympathize with you if you are having a bad day.  Life is tough, so is training, and so is competing.  Joella's saying," get comfortable feeling uncomfortable" hits home to us all.  Nobody becomes a champion without setting goals and committing to the goal. And, Joella will make you uncomfortable setting the goal. If it was easy, everyone would be doing it!  Much respect Joella!  You have helped me realize that success only comes to those who are willing to sacrifice and journey down the road less traveled.  Today, I am in the best shape of my life.  I couldn't have done it without your guidance!  - Brad Kehm

I got back into swimming after about a five year hiatus, slowly with a friend in the afternoon hours at the Y about four or five years ago. There was a very friendly girl in the locker room one evening that stopped me on my way out and said, "Hey, I saw you swimming out there. We need some butterfliers on our swim team. Leave your email address at the front desk and I'll have you added to our team list!"  That friendly girl's name was Joella. Ever since then, Joella has been an inspiration, a cheerleader, a coach, a teammate, and most importantly, one of the best friends that have ever come into my life.  I consider myself extremely lucky to have her in my life, and know for sure that I am a better person and athlete for having her influence.  Joella believes in us more than we believe in ourselves much of the time, and it takes a very special person to give as much as she does constantly to everyone around her.  I love you, Joella, and I hope to still be running and swimming and spinning with you when we're old and (more) senile! :)              - Jillian Lavelle

I first heard about Joella's group in mid-2009, and after a few emails, I showed up for my first Sunday run. I had a baby in January that year and was looking to shed a few pounds and find some running buddies to motivate me. Joella and the rest of the group helped me to run my first marathon (Pittsburgh), which was always a goal of mine. It was an amazing experience and I went on to run another in October and my first ultra in December. Never did I think I could accomplish so much and if it weren't for Joella's belief in me, I would have never tried. I have made lifelong friends and this group has done more for me than I could ever describe. – Avery Lawson

There are so many things that I could write about!  Last year was a year of "firsts" for me.  I did all kinds of things that I never thought I could do or had previously tried to do on my own and failed.  Before I would take on a new race, distance or sport I would always do a reassurance check with Joella.  She always said, "I would never let you do something that I didn't think you were ready to do".  That is always in my mind even up to my last big race, the ultra marathon.  From the time I stood at the start line of my first half marathon to standing in the water about to start my first full triathlon in Meadville to the first few minutes of the ultra, I always tell myself, she wouldn't let me do this if I wasn't ready - I'm ready, I can do this. She is the reassurance that I need, and look for when I'm not so sure of myself.... and she is the first person that I want to call or text when I am done with a race.  Without Joella, I would not have accomplished the things that I have in 2010, and I can't thank her enough for all that she does for me and this group!  - Angela Marchiori

Wow – where to start?!  Last year after finally deciding to join the YMCA, I thought I would try a mini-spin class. I had no idea what I was getting myself into!  After the first class, I said I was never going back - but I did.  Joella encouraged me to stay a little longer several times, and eventually I worked my way up to the hour class, and then the 2 hour class, and then I rode outside with the group. I plan to do the MS 150 in the spring.  When I asked what the run club was about, she encouraged me to come and give it a try (even though I had never run in my life). After the first time, I said I was never going back – but I did.  I ran my 1st half marathon and 5k last year.  She also encouraged me to give swimming a try – even though I didn't know how to swim with my head in the water.  After swallowing half the pool at my first lesson, I said I was never going back - but I did.  Because of Joella's encouragement, support, guidance, and friendship, I have accomplished things I never thought possible!  Thanks coach.  Love Ya!  

- Stacy McCandless

If you would have told me 3 years ago that I would be running as fast as I did in my early 20's, I would have laughed so hard that I would have peed my pants.  One year later, I pooped myself in the 2009 Pittsburgh Marathon, in which I qualified for Boston, after training with the group.  Since then I have had PR's in ½ marathons and qualified for Boston again, while placing 3rd overall for Women in a small marathon in Maryland last March.  I still have 4 minutes to shave off of my 3:35 marathon time from 1993, but I can feel it coming; and it is not because I am some mid-life prodigy; it is because of all the training and advice that Joella has provided me.  – Susan Moury

Where do I begin? As one of the first members of the Run Club, I could go on and on how Joella has helped me over the past 2 years. When I lose my confidence, she is there for me and always says the right thing to help me find it again. When I begin to lose focus, she gives me the tools to find my way back on track. Whenever she hears me use the word can't, she is quick to correct me and tell me that I can. And as always, she gives me the tools and guidance that I need to achieve my goals. Joella is an AMAZING person who is always there for everyone and ALWAYS, even with everything on her plate, takes the time to answer each and every question I have. I have learned so much from her over the past 2 years and have not only gained an awesome trainer, but have also gained an amazing friend. I have learned so much about running and so much about myself as a runner and now approach things with more confidence thanks to Joella. I know I still have so much more to learn but am excited because I am in the best hands. Thanks Joella for your time, guidance and friendship. You are a remarkable individual!!! - Erin Nicotra

I don't know where to begin with the long list of ways Joella has made a difference in my life.  She has been a coach, a mentor, a sounding board, an inspiration and a friend. She had pushed me to try things I wouldn't have dreamed of two years ago.  She kept me moving during my injuries (even when I was feeling sorry for myself) and is slowly making me at least like the pool.  Thanks to Joella, I am setting some goals for myself that I wouldn't have ever dreamed possible. – Krista Novak

I met Joella approximately six months ago and at that time, never thought I could run more than one mile without stopping.  She ran with me, not one mile without stopping, but three!  Basically, she had more faith in me than I had in myself.  I have since run a 5k, a half marathon and look forward to many races and learning how to swim.  Joella leads by example and is proof that NOTHING can stop you if you are determined!  I am happy to call her my coach and friend.  Thank you Joella!!!  – Nanette Paracca

My wife and I had trained for marathons in the past and had even paid for training through different programs.  When we first ran with Joella's running club (not named the Dawn Crackers yet) we both asked.... "So she does all this for free?!"  We were both amazed that the response was "Yes" and that was BEFORE running was increased to twice a day and biking, which all increased as the group grew.  Through Joella's training plans both of us have achieved personal records in basically all of our distance runs.  More importantly, we both have been inspired by Joella's commitment and dedication.  Even through all of the personal challenges that she has faced, Joella is always there providing guidance and motivation to everyone else.  It makes it a bit easier to get up at 5AM on a pitch dark January morning in the cold and snow and run when you know that she will be there to ready to go.  Joella is truly a person who leads by example and inspires all of us to achieve our goals. – Sam and Kris Poloyac

I first met Joella a year ago at one of her spin classes.  For some reason, once you meet Joella the next thing you know she has you running and swimming and suddenly you are a proud member of the Cranberry Dawn Crackers!  Joella has been such an inspiration not only to me, but to so many people. Through her I have met wonderful people and made many new friends. She has a special gift of inspiring you to do your best. We all know Joella recently tore her calf muscle while coaching some runners on the indoor track.  A spin class was scheduled right after she injured her leg.  She must have been in quite a bit of pain yet she insisted on conducting that class.  I will never forget the sight of her sitting on the floor in the spin room with her leg packed in ice.  Somehow she managed to conduct that class never missing a beat, encouraging her group to spin faster. She continued holding her spin classes the following weeks - spinning with one leg!  Unbelievable!  Now that's what I call getting comfortable with being uncomfortable. What a lesson to us all. Talk about a positive attitude.  I saw this quote somewhere and it reminds me of you:

"Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely, in an attractive and well preserved body.  But rather to skid in sideways, body thoroughly used up, and totally worn out and screaming "Woo Hoo - What a Ride!" or in her case "One Full Turn Up!"

Thank you Joella for all your encouragement, coaching, and friendship.  - Wendy Reuter

I met Joella at the Grandparents Day Race 2 years ago.  I started running with the Dawn Crackers a year and a half later.  The difference she has made with my racing and my community involvement is just staggering.  She has made me believe that it's all possible.  Everyone has self doubt, I think I may have more than most, but somehow Joella puts a spin on it and makes it work for me.  So it is written (said by Joella) - so it shall be (and is). I love her dearly for the difference she has made in me, not just my running but my interest in others and their successes.  I take a little of her with me always. – Dannielle Ripper

I met Joella many years ago.  We have run many of the same races.  She has always been positive and supportive to the entire running community.  Late in 2009, Joella said I should run with the Dawn Crackers, and she would coach me on some areas where I needed improvement.  My left arm was always swinging out and my arms were too tight!  Joella helped fix those items.  Buffalo Creek 2010:  I had a hamstring that was so tight that I thought I might not be able to run. I asked Joella for help, and of course she did!  I got on the floor and she stretched me out and I was able to run my P.R. on that course, 1:22.58.  I know my P.R. was a direct result of Joella's training and assistance.  Thanks Joella.  Looking forward to spring marathon training! - Emmett Santillo (The old one!)

I'm one of those loners that are self-motivated and am competitive within myself. However, as the years pass and children became my main priority, my athletic standards lowered significantly.  Three years ago I met Joella in the kid's pool at the Y.  We exchanged our marathon tally. I gave her my email and ever since she and the newsletter serve as my guardian angels that constantly give me a reality check for what am I doing to accomplish my goals and a kick in the butt to raise my expectations and goals.  I completed my 11th marathon last year after a 3 year break, and a 2nd season of triathlons after a 20 year break!  I don't know that I ever would have swum in open water again if it wasn't for Joella and "Tri Club" part of the Dawn Crackers (I'm not a Dawn Cracker as everyone knows!). Thanks Joella.  - Lori Scott

I never could have imagined that in the course of one year of knowing you, Joella, you would help me go from a few 5ks to completing races of 5 miles, 10 miles (2x), 15 miles, 30k, 1/2 marathon (2x) and full marathon (2x) as well as swimming a total of 63 miles.  Just take a look at how you have grown the Dawn Crackers from a small group of runners to over 325 (how do you keep everyone's names straight?)!!  The astonishing things happening in this group are due to your unfailing encouragement, tremendous fund of knowledge, enthusiasm, kindness and energy giving everyone the happiness and confidence to soar.  Along the way there are friendships that will last a lifetime, most precious of all. Thank you, Joella, from the bottom of my heart.  We will all be YOUR loudest cheerleaders as you get ready for Worlds!!

 – Anne Semmler

I heard about Joella before I met her as I'm sure many of us have.  I was there when she started the run club and I must say I would never have expected it to grow at the rate and magnitude that is has.  What I enjoy most is seeing new people come and watch them accomplish goals that many of them never thought they could.  Joella's leadership developed a group of people that generate more encouragement than any group I have ever associated with both professionally and socially. I was more encouraged last year than I have been in a long time.  Having been a long time runner and having trained wrong for so many years, I found myself plagued with injury.  However, this year I completed the Rachel Carson Ultra and ran my best marathon in years.  Even though I was injured once again during the marathon, I am encouraged knowing that I am on the right track in my training and I foresee another PR in my future. - Bob Stanionis

I moved here about 2 years ago in the midst of training for my first marathon, forcing me to leave my training partners and knowledge of biking and running trails, which was very upsetting to me.  Shortly after that the run group formed and I found out that Joella also biked and swam.  I don't think I could have asked for a better fit for me!  I have met so many great friends in the club and the amount of encouragement and inspiration is astounding.  Joella has really created something wonderful. She has also helped me step up to my next level of performance and I'm sure I'll be well prepared for my first Half-Ironman this spring.  Of course, creating all of the workouts is a great plus but I think what really motivates me is seeing her dedication to everyone in the group, and to her family and herself.  Her own story is also very inspiring and I strive to have her mental and physical toughness.  I'm also blessed to have her as a dear friend. 

– Alice Wiesner

Joella is a ROCK.  From the first long run in Zelienople I could sense this about her leadership and personality and was drawn to it.  Personal challenges, training related injuries, bad days, blow a race...no regrets - keep plugging toward the goal.  Achieve something wonderful and you are sure to win her praise followed by and 'THE NEXT GOAL IS?' Driving up to support us in the wee hours of the morning to Erie - AMAZING.  I strayed away for months at a time before and was quickly welcomed back.  Joella believes in each one of us and accepts us where we are and seamlessly understands where we should be.  Her love and enthusiasm for the kids this summer was outstanding to witness as a mom.  You have certainly become a role model to my daughter. Thanks for the vision of this group - proud to be a Dawn Cracker!!!    - Dianne Zalenski

Coach, we know your personal strength and athletic power are only overshadowed by your sincere modesty and kindness for everyone around you. You'll be the first to want to deflect credit onto your athletes, your "disciples", your friends. It needs to be acknowledged there are many in the group who help out and provide support, share the load of leading run, spin and swim sessions, and consistently share their genuine encouragement to everyone. They know who they are, and for them we are also very appreciative.

We would be remiss if we didn't also send out a huge shout out to Zachary and Scott!  Guys, without your sacrifice every day, allowing your Joella spend so much of her time and energy with her athletes, the magnitude of her impact on our lives and race performance wouldn't be what it is. Thanks guys for sharing her, that means a lot to all of us!

The club has continued to grow and evolve since the small core group had the inspiration to get it started a couple years ago. This group is full of simply fantastic people, and we've formed a genuine culture around your values and your leadership style - demonstrated each workout, each day, each season – and applied individually to one athlete at a time!

Joella, we are your Get Fit Families Dawn Crackers walkers, hikers, runners, swimmers, cyclists and triathletes.  With your inspiration and direction we are looking forward to accomplishing even greater goals in 2011 – TOGETHER!!!

I finally decided to write to you !!! Im always afraid because is so hard for me to write in english but I know you will understand me ...I meant to write before the beginning of this new year just to tell you how much my life change after I met you !!! you have been my isnpiration and strentgh for all the things I do and the running club is the best !!! I think about you guys at least one time a day and how disciplined and strong you are !!! You are amazing !!!

I remember the very first time I ran and I liked it from the beginning but of course you can imagine how bad I did !! ...now that I am trainning with the best ( you ) I love it !! and is becoming a very important part of my life !!! I almost can say that now I run more than I play my cello !!! Anyway I just wanted to say that you were one of the best thing happened to me last year and I'm thankful for all you have taught me all this time !!!I miss you and I will be more than ready to start again when I come back !!!Hugs !!! Gloria !!!

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