"Bright Lights for Charlie" Press Conference

Published on September 06, 2022

A press conference announcing “Bright Lights for Charlie,” a bike ride and fundraising event to benefit the family of Charlie Criniere, who lost his life in a hit and run bike accident on View High Drive last Saturday, was held Tuesday, September 6 at 10 a.m. at Longview Lake Beach.

Speakers included:

• Frank White, Jr. – Jackson County Executive
• Tony Miller – Jackson County Legislator and Land Use Committee Chair
• Athol Barnes – Pastor, Grace Point Baptist Church
• Jeremy Van Deventer – Event Organizer
  
  

“My heart goes out to all of those who knew and loved Charlie, especially his wife and children,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “With over 150 miles of hiking, biking, walking and equestrian trails in our parks system, we value and prioritize safety. Jackson County partnering on this bike ride is one way to show our support for Charlie’s family and to amplify the voices advocating to decrease the dangers of walking and biking for everyone.”

Charlie Criniere was a middle school math teacher for the Grandview School District.  He was also a Deacon at Grace Point Baptist Church and a loving husband to Megan Criniere who is currently homeschooling 9 of their 10 children. 100% of the money raised through the ride will benefit Charlie’s family.

The “Bright Lights for Charlie” Bike Ride, named in honor of Charlie’s children and students, represents the beginning of a campaign for cyclists to be SEEN. The bike ride will be held Saturday, September 17, starting at 8 a.m. at Longview Lake Beach, 11101 Raytown Road. Routes will vary from 10 miles to 100 kilometers. In lieu of a registration fee, donations will be accepted. For more information, contact Jeremycvandeventer@gmail.com.