PETE'S PICK: IT'S BIKE MONTH, LEAD BY EXAMPLE
May is Bike Month, and what better way to celebrate than by showcasing responsible riding in the Roanoke Region? Everyone knows that I am pro cycling. I've written on the subject dozens of times within the past year with no plans to stop anytime soon. The reason, bikes are good. People ride bikes for a number of different reasons, almost all of which benefit the public. Whether is the improvement of a community's health, connectivity, improvements to the local economy, the lessening of pollution to the environment or improvements to the transportation network, biking benefits society. Who doesn't remember the first bike they got, or better yet seeing their child's eyes light up when they take those training wheels off? This is where you come into play. Roanoke's cycling culture is in a transition, going from infancy into adolescence, and it's critical we remember the importance of leading by example.
Find out what more you can do >>>
Get outside! 
Pete Eshelman
Director of Outdoor Branding
Roanoke Regional Partnership
  
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HELP REGION UNITE FOR THE GREENWAY
 Open letter by Jeff Howard,
Board Member Pathfinders for GreenwaysThe future of the Roanoke River Greenway will be decided May 23. On that day, the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) will meet to make a big decision -- how to prioritize $28 million in federal funding for regional transportation projects. One project, among many offered, is to complete the three remaining sections of the Roanoke River Greenway. Construction began on it in 1999 and 12 miles are finished to date, with nine more to complete. The biggest obstacle to completion to date has been funding. Private funding has come -- albeit slowly. State funding has all but dried up. It will take $12.8 million more in funding to get it done.
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WIN IT: JACKSON RIVER SCENIC TRAIL RACE ENTRY
 Join in the fun for the first half marathon along the Jackson River Scenic Trail, sure to be one of the most scenic half marathons in the country. Runners have three race options including the half marathon, a 10K, or 1-mile family run on June 29 in the Alleghany Highlands. Roanoke Outside and Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Tourism are partnering to help you run for free, and even throwing in overnight accommodations. (Enter below and on Facebook for extra entries.)
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SUPPORT TRAILS AT GALLOP 4 THE GREENWAYS
 We're all geared up about Gallop 4 the Greenways this weekend. Come on out for a race that supports a good cause and meet the friendly faces of Roanoke Outside. (We'll have a tent and would love for you to come say hello.) Gallop 4 the Greenways features a 5K, 1 mile walk, and kid's fun run with proceeds going to support the ever-growing network of pedestrian and bicycle trails in the Roanoke Region. At the conclusion of the race, there will be a festival for racers and spectators featuring live music from The Key West Band, food, and more for children and adults. The 5K kicks off at 5 p.m. Saturday, right after the kid's run (so make sure to cheer on the young runners). The walk will also start at 5. Awards will be given to the top finishers. Learn more and register today >>>
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