This week’s forecast makes you wonder how the weather will affect travel and plans in general. It reminds me of a story my grandparents shared when I became a teenage driver. They said to never compromise your safety at the expense of being mindful of weather conditions that impact car travel. They know this as they were stuck in their car for three days near Olivia, MN, in the great 1975 snowstorm. The storm drifted over a foot of snow on trains stalled on the railways and made cars literally invisible on the roadways. They survived those three days stuck by the side of the road on a loaf of bread, butter, and a half gallon of milk they had brought with them, trying to make it to my aunt’s wedding. They were lucky that eventually, the plow came along, bumped into their car, and brought them to safety. The outcome could have been much worse. Since hearing that story, I respect the decisions of some not to travel out and those that decide to due to necessary circumstances. If you do end up driving out in a winter wonderland, then make sure you are traveling at a safe speed, and pack warm clothing or blankets along with some food/water. Check the forecast and conditions before your departure and ensure you have plenty of gas should you find yourself stuck until help arrives. Be safe out there!
Kris Jacobson, LNHA, LALD, MBA
JMHS CEO