13th Annual Ole’s Ride Raises more than $30,000 for Hospice of the Red River Valley

VERGAS (KDLM) – The 13th Annual Ole’s Ride, a motorcycle ride throughout the Lakes Area benefiting Hospice of the Red River Valley raised $30,319.

The event, held Aug. 27, now in its 13th year, has raised $208,044 to help provide hospice care to patients and families in Vergas and the surrounding area.

The event is held in memory of Richard “Ole” Barten, who lost his battle to cancer in February 2011. Hospice of the Red River Valley cared for Ole during his last months, and the family holds the event to give back. “We are so very grateful to our community and all the generous people who participate, donate and volunteer,” Kris Barten, Ole’s wife and event organizer, said. “Without every person involved and the generosity of the Vergas community, this event would not be possible.”