Walking in a Winter Wonderland

While many of us grumble about cold cars, others skip vehicles all together, using their own foot power to get themselves to and from campus each day – even in the middle of winter.

Whether for reasons of good health, environmental impact or just fun, several faculty, staff and students ride their bikes or walk year-round. Librarian Erika Rux, who recently moved a few blocks from campus to reduce her vehicle dependence, even pushes her two boys in a bike trailer or pulls them on a sled to Cobber Kids on her way to work.

“Most days we can feel good about the benefits we see in our financial savings, the environmental benefit of reducing automobile exhaust and, of course, the health benefit of moving our bodies,” she says.

Religion Associate Professor Dr. Stewart Herman bikes to work from Fargo, N.D., for the relaxation and fuel savings, making a tank of gas in his car last up to three weeks.

“I find it reflective and peaceful to put 20 minutes of bicycling between hectic home and hectic work,” he says.

Rux is also happy about the example she’s setting for her children.

“I hope they will grow up thinking carefully about their own energy consumption and will learn to make choices that are healthier for them and for the environment,” she says.