LOOSELEAF LAUREATE: Thanks to Foust — and maybe you?

I’ve been pretty active this summer, often hiking 10-12 miles or more on a weekend, not counting dog walks.

How about you?

Are you looking to raise your activity level? Get in better shape?

How about helping a worthy cause?

Here’s a plan: Why don’t you join me at the CASA Run for the Child on May 21 at Roane State Community College. The Saturday morning event is for a good cause — we’re raising money to train advocates who will work through the court system to help children who have been abused or neglected get the homes and care they need.

You don’t have to run. The 5k is for walkers, and there’s a shorter fun run.

If you are pressed for time, or unwilling and unable to be that active, well, you can simply sign-up for a T-shirt or just make a donation.

Funding is down to charities. We’re looking for all of the help we can get.

As a co-chair of the race committee, I would like to commend one local business that really stepped up for us.

Foust Family Fitness at 209 Roane St. in Kingston has become our lead donor to help with race expenses.

Although many businesses are larger than theirs, they believe in the cause.

The fine people there dug deep and came up with a $1,500 contribution. They have generously helped with the effort in the past and regularly put together large teams to participate.

But this year’s sponsorship is a big deal, and we couldn’t be more grateful.

Now all we need is runners, walkers and other donors to help with the cause.

So, won’t you join me? And bring the kids, because United Way’s Family Fun Day is at the same place after the race.

On another note, I’ve been making a monthly drive-around of Roane County to help stay in touch with the community and its changes.

This week, I explored around Bowman Bend Road, Joiner Hollow and Rockwood.

I poked around Grande Vista Bay — wow, how that has come along — and drove down Kingston Avenue in Rockwood to admire its historic elegance.

May is when the enchanting aspect of our home really comes into its own.

The deep, glowing emerald of pastures, the darker green of leafy trees and the blue skies bedazzled me.

Roane County is a beautiful place.

Let’s strive to keep it that way.