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November ,

Earlier Sunsets

and

Thanksgiving Traditions

by Michelle Avola-Brown, Executive Director,
Naples Pathways Coalition
always have mixed feelings about the fall An after-Thanksgiving tradition I always look forward to is
time change. I love the extra hour of sleep, the annual Iron Joe Turkey Ride & Walk with something for
I especially the first week. I think my coffee everyone. When you've had your fill of leftovers and shopped 'til
even tastes better with an extra hour of sleep! you dropped, air up your tires, lace up your shoes, and join us at
But the trade-off is the early evening darkness Eagle Lakes Community Park on Sunday, November 30.
that takes some getting used to. Although I (11565 Tamiami Trail E, Naples, 34112).
know it’s coming, those first few evenings when The start times are staggered, so only the long-distance riders
dinner time feels like bedtime surprise me every year. need to arrive early. You can grab a light breakfast and coffee at
The shorter days catch many drivers by surprise this time of the park before heading out on a 5, 10, 20, 40, or 62-mile ride
year too. Kids walking or biking home from after-school sports or enjoy a 2.5 or 5 mile walk. The 5 miler and walk are entirely
and clubs can be tough to see, especially after dusk. Youth may not inside the park on a scenic pathway - great for families with
realize they are harder to see, so we need to be extra alert when children and anyone bouncing back from a health issue or injury.
driving in the evening. An extra bonus – kids ride and walk FREE!
Those of us who enjoy an after-dinner walk or bike ride in this There will be conveniently located rest stops and on-road help
glorious weather need to be sure we are visible too. After dark, it's if anyone gets a flat. At the finish, stay for the fun after-party with
wise to wear a white or fluorescent-colored shirt and socks. Dark- a hearty spread from Jason's Deli, music, beer and soft drinks,
colored clothing makes you nearly invisible at night. White or great raffle prizes, a photo booth, and more. What better way to
neon-colored socks are helpful because our eyes notice things that cap off the holiday weekend than with some exercise, delicious
move. Reflective arm and ankle bands are also a must for the same food, and a great time with new and old friends? Bring your
st
reason. A reflective leash and collar will help your four-legged friends and family – you don't want to miss the 21 Annual Iron
friend be visible on your evening stroll too. Joe Turkey Ride! For more information or to register,
After sunset, be sure your bike has a functioning headlight and visit https://bit.ly/IJTR2025.
taillight, and both are visible for several hundred feet. (Did you Naples Pathways Coalition is a 501C3 non-profit advocacy group
know, just like motor vehicles, bicycles are legally required to use dedicated to improving safety for people who walk, run, and bike.
lights from dusk to dawn?) We recommend using your front and Event proceeds help support our mission and our two keystone projects:
rear lights in blinking mode during the day to increase visibility, developing the Paradise Coast Trail and stopping distracted driving
but only your taillight should be flashing at night. The headlight through our Hands-Free Florida campaign.
should be a constant beam. Make sure your bike has plenty of
reflectors, too.

For more information, please visit www.NaplesPathways.org and www.HandsFreeFlorida.org
If you have any specific questions, email me at Michelle@NaplesPathways.org
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