Hats off to Linda Pearson, the United Way of Moore County's relentlessly positive executive director, for spearheading last week's successful and fun fundraiser, the Tour de Trike. The spectacle featured nearly 50 community dignitaries -- many of them wearing hilarious costumes -- squeezing onto child-sized tricycles and racing them 100 yards along Broad Street in downtown Southern Pines.

Despite the threat of storms, Pearson and her volunteers decided to press on, rain or shine. Mother Nature cooperated. Skies cleared and the sun came out just in time for the big fun.

The event raised more than $7,000 for the organization that represents 20-some local charities. With the United Way's annual campaign getting ready to kick off in just a few weeks, the tricycle race was a great way to get folks into the giving spirit. During these difficult economic times, it is even more important that folks make a contribution this year.

Caring communities don't happen by accident. Ours has been built on the backs of people like Linda and her cadre of enthusiastic volunteers. Here's hoping this year's United Way campaign is as successful as the trike race. Keep up the good work, Linda.