Off to the foot races at Balboa Park

It’s Sunday again, it’s somehow the last day of August, and here we are, still kicking.

Our lead story is about how a group of determined runners saved a classic high school foot race in Balboa Park, securing a new sponsor (a brand with the excellent name Brooks) to keep the half-century long tradition going. I was a dedicated runner for many years before turning into a jogger in denial, so I know how determined they can be when there’s something they really want to get nailed down. After all, they’re runners.

We’re also getting a familiar face back in the local political mix, as Ammar Campa-Najjar opts to take a leave of absence from Georgetown University. The Democratic Party candidate plans a rematch against Republican Rep. Darrell Issa.

And if you’ve been bitten by the acting bug and just happen to live in Ocean Beach, have we got an opportunity for you. The makers behind a new sitcom about an OB band (“End of the 8”) are holding a free concert at Winstons on Sept. 11. Locals are invited to fill out a cheering crowd in a few camera shots before being treated to a live performance. 

In a previous life many, many years ago I worked as a television extra for a little side cash, and due to the nature of my reporting work ended up in various reality shows and documentaries for years, and it’s always a treat to find myself grinning in a background scene somewhere. (The one everyone will have heard of, if you’re interested in examining the backgrounds of TV shows, is Veronica Mars.) I’ve been dining out on my near approximation of fame for years, so I absolutely recommend working as an extra. Plus, sometimes they’ll feed you, too.

Thoughts? Opinions? Let us know what you think by emailing news@timesofsandiego.com.