It's snowing as I am putting this together, but still wishing I could go ride. Bike is put away for the winter, but counting the days to spring. 110 days to possible riding weather. Hoping it happens sooner than that though.

It was a good summer lots of riding and happenings around our area chapters. Getting with them was fun in the summer and hope to continue this winter with socials or whatever is going on at the time. New officers are taking place in Chapter G as of the first of the year, Jonelle is stepping down as treasurer and Denis Husnik is taking over. Denis's position as MEC is being filled by Reba Petersen, thank you Reba.

That's all for this month hope to see everyone at the International Bike Show in Minneapolis. Drive safe this winter and if you have to shovel snow, follow the tips Al Hansen has in the following

Larry and Betty Reed
Chapter G directors
651-773-5050

From the Chapter Educator
By Al Hansen

Shoveling, snow blowing or plowing are the usual removal methods. Remember to take it easy and not overdo it. Moving snow can be hazardous, here are a few tips:

Make sure you can do this activity - Because this places high stress on the heart. If you have a medical condition or do not exercise regularly, consider hiring someone to remove the snow.

Dress appropriately. Light, layered, water-repellent clothing provides both ventilation and insulation. It is also important to wear the appropriate head coverings, as well as mittens or gloves and thick, warm socks and good boots. Avoid falls by wearing shoes or boots that have slip-resistant soles.

Try to clear snow early and often. Begin shoveling / blowing when a light covering of snow is on the ground to avoid dealing with packed, heavy snow.

Be sure you can see what you are shoveling / blowing. Do not let a hat or scarf block your vision. Watch for ice patches and uneven surfaces.

Shoveling tips:

Take time to warm-up your muscles. Shoveling can be a vigorous activity. Before you begin this physical workout, warm-up your muscles for 10 minutes with light exercise.

Pace yourself. Snow shoveling and blowing are aerobic activities. Take frequent breaks and prevent dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids. If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath or other signs of a heart attack, stop shoveling / blowing and seek emergency medical assistance.

Use a shovel that is comfortable for your height and strength. Do not use a shovel that is too heavy or too long for you. Space your hands on the tool grip to increase your leverage.

Try to push the snow instead of lifting it. If you must lift, do it properly. Squat with your legs apart, knees bent, and back straight. Lift with your legs. Do not bend at the waist. Scoop small amounts of snow into the shovel and walk to where you want to dump it. Holding a shovelful of snow with your arms outstretched puts too much weight on your spine. Never remove deep snow all at once. Do it in pieces.

Do not throw the snow over your shoulder or to the side. This requires a twisting motion that stresses your back.

Snow blowing tips:

Never stick your hands in the snow blower! If snow jams the snow blower, stop the engine and wait more than 5 seconds. Use a solid object to clear wet snow or debris from the chute. Beware of the recoil of the motor and blades after the machine has been turned off.

Do not leave the snow blower unattended when it is running. Shut off the engine if you must walk away from the machine.

Add fuel before starting the snow blower. Never add fuel when the engine is running or hot. Do not operate the machine in an enclosed area.

Stay away from the engine. It can become very hot and burn unprotected flesh.

Watch the snow blower cord. If you are operating an electric snow blower, be aware of where the power cord is at all times.

Do not remove safety devices, shields or guards on switches, and keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Beware of the brief recoil of motor and blades that occurs after the machine has been turned off.

Never let children operate snow blowers. Keep children 15 years of age and younger away when snow blowers are in use.

Read the instruction manual prior to using a snow blower. You need to be familiar with the specific safety hazards and unfamiliar features. Do not attempt to repair or maintain the snow blower without reading the instruction manual.

Source: American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons website.