BOYNE CITY - The North Country Bicycle Club sponsored a "Ride of Silence" as did hundreds of bike clubs across the country and 23 locations in Michigan to commemorate their fellow riders who have been injured or killed in an accident on the road. All of these rides began simultaneously at 7 p.m. on May l6. In Boyne City, a sizable group of cycling supporters gathered in spite of the inclement weather at 6:30 p.m. for a brief memorial and reminder of the rules of the road as expressed by the ride leader, Donna Moll. While each remembered their own fallen friends, she introduced the community's latest victims, Bill Aten and Brandon Inglehart, who were assisted by their families to meet with the group. Bill and Brandon were the recent victims of a tragic accident that left them seriously injured. All were happy to see that they are recovering.
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The hardy cyclists began the long, slow, cool "Ride of Silence" which followed the shore of Lake Charlevoix, in spite of the temps in the low 40s, a stiff breeze blowing off the lake and a constant cold rain. The riders were joined by the bicycle mounted police patrol from Boyne City and the Charlevoix County Sheriff's Patrol. This was a good reminder that all have rights and responsibilities while enjoying the privilege of using the road system, both cyclists and motorist. Each participant was given a booklet, "What Every Michigan Bicyclist Must Know," published by the MDOT and The League of Michigan Bicyclists. Copies are available at either North Country Cycle Sports or Bike Fix Cycling Center.
