Sarasota Coalition on Substance Abuse, Inc.

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PRESS RELEASE

  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                                APRIL 25 2006

  Media please contact:  Curt Lavarello, Executive Director                                            941-922-SAFE [7233]

SUNSET BIKE RIDE TO RAISE FUNDS FOR SUBSTANCE ABUSE

"Dollars will go directly toward increasing the awareness of the harmful effects of substance abuse here in Sarasota County"

The Sarasota Coalition on Substance Abuse [SCoSA] will host its 3rd annual SUnset Bike Ride on Siesta Key, Saturday May 13th, 2006 [4 pm].  The ride is expected to draw riders not only from Sarasota, but from across the state and will feature two exciting routes.  Riders can choose between a 4-mile family ride and a 17-mile endurance ride, both of which are sure to include plenty of views of one of Florida's most scenic sunsets.  This year's ride is sponsored by the Sarasota Coastal Credit Union.  Other events taking place that day will be a beach barbeque, the Grey Flannel Silent Auction and live music by the Schmitz Brothers, one of Sarasota's hottest musical bands.

"Substance abuse negatively impacts each and every resident of Sarasota County", states Curtis Lavarello, the organization's Executive Director.  The Coalition's last study concluded that the economic cost just in Sarasota County was over 200 million per year, when you factor in crime, health care and loss of productivity in the workplace.

New at this year's event will be the School Team Challenge, in which a school team of 10 teachers, students, parents or staff can enter the ride for a reduced fee and compete for a club pizza party.  A raffle will also be held with two lucky winners taking away grand prized of a brand new Fuji Captiva 7-speed Beach Bike, donated by Midnight Pass Bike & Kayak and Dino's Pizza.  Tickets for the raffle can be purchased in advance at either Gold's Gym or the Sarasota Coastal Credit Union, both on Bee Ridge Road.

"This ride is so popular because of both the cause and the location", stated Lavarello.  "We anticipate over 200 riders that day, so those desiring to ride should pre-register online at www.SCoSA.org. 

Additional Info:  Call the Sarasota Coalition on Substance Abuse at 922-7233.

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