Spring is here. Time to break out the allergy medication and dust off the tools associated with our outdoor passions. Live concerts, football, and public intoxication make up just a fraction of the activities in which I hope to engage as the weather warms up.

The season of the motorcycle is also upon us. Millions of Americans in the northern part of the country will be getting their bikes out for the first time since last fall to take part in a lifestyle that is a defining trait for many. As the weather warms up, more people take to the road in general.

It will be ten years this fall that I lost a best friend from my childhood. Curtis Klingbeil was only a month into the age of sixteen when he was killed while riding his motorcycle. It was only a couple of days ago that I actually read the reports online as I searched for a picture to share. Alas, the only version of the picture I can find is a small pocket photo I’ve kept in my wallet for years.

Curtis’ story is one of many. I miss him and the potential he had shown as he approached adulthood. He took an interest in mechanics and electronics, none of which I understood when I was his age.

The point of this is to remind you to drive safely as you get out and about. Your attention could spare a life.