Billy’s Corner Bar and Grill the home for annual benefit weekend

By Robert Williams

Editor

Vergas streets and those of surrounding communities will come to life Saturday, Aug. 22, during the 17th Annual Ole’s Ride.

The benefit ride for HIA Hospice has set historical milestones the past few years with yearly highs of funds raised to a total accumulation of more than $300,000 donated since its inception.

“I never dreamt in a million years that this would turn into what it is,” Organizer Krissy Barten said.

The ride’s namesake is Richard “Ole” Barten. The proceeds from the inaugural ride went to cover his medical expenses and Ole even took part in the first ride.

Over the years, Krissy has heard reports of the positive effects of Hospice on those in the end of life care and its benefit to their family members.

“It’s life-changing; it really is,” Barten said.

Ole Barten lived his life while combatting cancer until his passing in February of 2011. 

During his final months, he received compassionate care from then Hospice of the Red River Valley, now HIA Hospice.

That care left an impact on his loved ones. Ole’s family initiated this event as a way to support and express their heartfelt appreciation.

Consistent sponsorship from local and regional businesses has also been a major factor in the growth and success of the ride.

“Every sponsor on there is important to us, along with everyone who donates to the silent auction,” said Barten.

The registration, ride, and activities are centered around Billy’s Corner Bar and Grill. Billy’s was a big part of Ole and Krissy’s lives together.

“They are so there for us,” she said. “Honestly, they were the center of every happy occasion in Ole’s and my life. That’s where we celebrated.”

Equally as important is the benefactor of the ride.

“There is nobody who is not affected by Hospice; if it’s not a family member, you knew somebody that had it,” Barten said. “I still think back to when it was Ole.”

Pre-registration and a bike show will be held on Friday, Aug. 21 from 6:30-8 p.m. at Billy’s Corner Bar in Vergas. Bike show voting ends at 8 p.m.

Participants can also register for the ride on Saturday from 10-11:30 a.m.  Kickstands go up and the ride begins at noon.

To participate in the ride, there is a registration fee of $25 per bike, with the option for an additional rider to join for $15. Registration includes a T-shirt, meal and opportunities to win door prizes at each stop along the route. Following the ride, participants can look forward to a silent auction and a live music performance by The Fat Cats.

HIA Hospice: 

Formerly Hospice of 

the Red River Valley

For over 40 years, Hospice of the Red River Valley has provided compassionate care across the region. Now, this legacy continues as HIA Hospice, offering vital support to individuals and families during life’s most challenging moments. While only the name has changed, this transition to HIA Hospice signifies a strengthened commitment to HIAs values and the community, as HIA unites the ways they serve the area—because at HIA Hospice, Hearts In Action means being there when each moment matters most.life-limiting illnesses and their loved ones by addressing their medical, emotional, spiritual and grief needs. 

For more information, call toll free 800-237-4629, email questions@hrrv.org or visit www.hrrv.org.