Tri-state bike ride to raise money for EMTs

Mon September 08 2008
Posted Sep 8, 2008
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Lindsay Blake, Staff Writer, lindsay.blake@nonpareilonline.com HAMBURG - Emergency Medical Technicians hold a special place in Steven Middaugh's life. Just six years ago, Middaugh was in a bicycle accident where local EMTs took him first to Grape Community Hospital in Hamburg and later to Creighton University Medical Center. Middaugh was not wearing a helmet and had severe enough injuries that he had to relearn how to read, write and speak. "EMTs hold a special place in my heart," Middaugh said. "They were instrumental in my accident." To show his appreciation and support, Middaugh created the Missouri-Iowa-Nebraska-Tri State bicycle rides in 2007 to raise money. Two routes were offered, one long and one short. Seventy-five riders participated in last year's MINTS RIDES and nearly $2,000 was raised to benefit nine EMT squads along the routes. "I was thinking we'd maybe get 60 to 65 riders last year," Middaugh said. "But I was ecstatic to see how many came out and felt we had a great number for the first time." Because of last year's success, Middaugh will hold the 2008 MINTS RIDES on Sunday, Sept. 14, beginning at the fire hall in Hamburg. The 76-mile signature ride will leave Hamburg and continue on to Rock Port, across the Missouri River to Brownville, Auburn and Nebraska City before returning on the Bluff Road to Hamburg. A shorter 36-mile ride will travel along the Bluff Road north to Thurman and will return along the same route. Middaugh said he would like to keep hosting the event each year as long as the roads hold up. "Unfortunately, everyone in their life will need an EMT," Middaugh said. "This is one way to support those who will someday help us." SEPT 14th 2008 Riders may pre-register but are welcome to register on the day of the ride at 7 a.m. Cost of the rides with a shirt is $24 and $19. The Hamburg Rescue Squad will serve breakfast at the fire hall on Main Street before the rides begin. Pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage and beverage will be served. Cost to eat will be $4.50 for adults and $3 for children. Door prizes will be handed out throughout the ride. For more information on the 2008 MINTS RIDES, go online to www.mintsride.org.