Going on hiatus ... but back soon

A heads-up: Sadly, I've gotta take some time away from blogging -- my unpaid weeklong furlough (stupid recession) starts at 12 a.m. Sunday and runs through the following Saturday (Aug. 15); during that time, I can't do any work for the Observer or a trap door opens underneath me and I'm never seen or heard from again.

So ... I'll be back in action Sunday, Aug. 16.

Not quite done yet, though. I hope to get a blog entry up after the BluePoints 5K tomorrow morning. And I leave you on this Friday afternoon with two tidbits:

1. You can save a few bucks at your favorite running store during the Sales Tax Holiday that runs all weekend. Most shoes and clothing items under $100 qualify, and some running-related items (gear, accessories, i.e. stuff you wouldn't wear to the grocery store) less than $50 also is tax-free.

2. If you're looking for a small-town race next weekend (Saturday, Aug. 15), one option is the second annual Tomato Trot, heading out from Unity Presbyterian Church in Woodleaf (near Salisbury) at 8 a.m. The run takes place "out in the country, and runners will be running past tomato fields, cows and a farm," says race director Mallory Hodge. There will also be a Fun Run after the 5K. The run kicks off the all-day Tomato Festival, which features entertainment, food (including tomato sandwiches), a kids zone, a yard sale, a silent auction, a parade, and a "Tomato Queen" contest. Cost is $20 before race day and $25 on race day. Runners will receive a red dri-fit shirt and a coupon for a free lunch if they decide to stay for the festival. Click here to register. For questions or more info, e-mail Hodge at Christchic16@hotmail.com.

Happy running this weekend.