ADVOCATE STAFF REPORT • May 30, 2009 ST.
LOUISVILLE — Friends of a murdered Utica woman have established what they hope to be a yearly reminder of her legacy of kindness, beginning today. Keri Gardner, who said the late Lynette Ricketts was her best friend, said the Ride for Lynette will be an annual charity event, with proceeds going to a college scholarship for one Utica High School senior and the domestic violence shelter New Beginnings. Ricketts, 40, was killed by her ex-husband, Randy Ricketts, 49, at her home on Jefferson Street in Utica on the night of Oct. 19. He then turned the gun on himself. Gardner discovered the aftermath and said Friday she is bracing for a wide range of feelings. “It’s going to be an emotional weekend, I’m sure,” she said. Registration for the poker run portion of the event will begin at 9 a.m. today and run until the first motorcycle leaves The Loft, 7467 Mount Vernon Road, St. Louisville, at 11 a.m.
Gardner said the ride, which will take place rain or shine, will run about 120 miles with five stops and is expected to conclude around 5 p.m. back at The Loft. A hog roast will be waiting at the finish line for the riders and others who just want to attend for dinner, she said.