Monday, August 17, 2009

Sometimes You Just Have to Laugh at Yourself

One of my teammates passed this along to me and then I got several other forwards of it from various parts of the country. Proof that the web is viral, especially for something this funny. Hope you enjoy this video... (I think it was filmed in Portland, OR)

Saturday, August 15, 2009

We're Having a Party for MS Research!

At long last, we're having a party at the office, and it's for a great cause. This fall I'm going to be riding my bicycle in a fundraising event for Multiple Sclerosis (MS 150). We need your support! Attend the party or donate online. Please help support us in this mission.

We'll be showing The Triplets of Belleville and making smoothies on a bike powered blender! Who wouldn't give money for that! Help us raise money for the fight against MS.

Event Info: August 27, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. (doors @ 7:00 p.m.) Donations will be accepted, LARGE and small.

:::EVENT FLYER:::

Can't come but still want to donate? Visit our MS 150 page.

Thursday, August 13, 2009

5 Ways to Avoid Being Struck by Lightning

More than a couple of times as a kid, I was stubborn to come in for shelter during a lightning storm. I just came across some useful tips for those of us who ride in lightning prone areas. Here are some tips to limit your 1 in 3000 chance of being struck in your lifetime by lightning, specifically for cyclists:

1. Obey the "30/30" rule. When lightning is seen, count the time until thunder is heard. If it's 30 seconds or less, seek shelter immediately. Storms can move at 50 mph (80 kph). Stay protected for 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder because lightning can occur 10 miles (16 km) from the storm center.

2. Get inside. The safest places are a substantial building or a car with a metal roof. As the National Weather Service advises, "When thunder roars, go indoors."

3. Get down. If you're caught in the open, get into a ravine or ditch. If there are none and bolts are hitting all around, get away from your bike and make yourself small by squatting on the balls of your feet or kneeling with your toes touching the ground. Experts say this posture may prevent lighting from passing through your heart. Get down right now if a thunderstorm is near and you feel your hair stand on end.

4. Avoid lone trees and isolated stands of trees. Low bushes are safer shelter.

5. Avoid metal objects. This includes fences, guardrails and especially anything tall such as flagpoles and power stanchions. It also includes your bicycle. Even carbon bikes still have some metal.

** Reposted from roadbikerider.com