This month marks the two-year anniversary of the death of 12-year-old Jake Boysel, who was struck and killed by a motorist while he rode his bike along Calle Real.
The story, although tragic, has developed a silver lining in the Santa Barbara community, which has rallied to promote bicycle safety awareness.
Some might remember the memorial bike ride just weeks after the Sept. 8, 2006, accident, in which more than 100 supporters rode through downtown Santa Barbara to De la Guerra Plaza to listen to public figures speak on bike safety measures.
On Friday morning, friends, family and administrators gathered at San Marcos High where Jake would have been a freshman this year.
Easy Lift Transportation, a local nonprofit charity serving frail seniors and people with disabilities, produced large vehicle stickers that will be placed on all its fleet of 20 vans.
San Marcos principal Norm Clevenger, activities director Aaron Solis and La Colina Junior High principal David Ortiz were in attendance along with Jake’s mother, Karen Boysel.
Jake’s close friends placed the first “Jake” stickers reminding the public to “Drive Safe-Bike Safe-Be Safe.” The stickers will act as a rolling reminder to the public as well as a tribute to Jake.
Ernesto Paredes is executive director of Easy Lift Transportation.