Commentary

Commentary, Influencers / 30.12.2009

Sara Lingafelter came on to adventure scene with the grace of a ballet dancer and the energy of a rock star. I’ve been at this 20 years now and I’ve seen my share of young women and men go about “finding themselves” in the outdoors.  Most “live the dream” by scamming free gear, conning sponsored vacations, alienating family, neglecting friends and forgetting how to bathe, but not Sara. This once Seattle-area lawyer came to the wild world with humility and thoughtful consideration. Sara took the odd shop job,...

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Commentary / 25.12.2009

Wherever you are this holiday season may you find happiness in every moment. There is so much more to life when the exchange of gifts includes the sharing of warm thoughts and well wishes among the billions who cohabit our beautiful planet. Know that as you count your blessings today there are those whose hearts will take comfort in the kindness of your smile, the patience and compassion in your voice and the twinkle of laughter in your eyes. Share your holiday joy! Photograph by James Edward Mills...

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Commentary, Diversity / 26.11.2009

h   This video came across my desk this morning. Here is another wonderful example of modern media that would be hilarious if not for its painfully tragic truth. Blair Underwood does an amazing job of illustrating a social phenomenon that I've experience through much of my personal and professional life. Anyone who spends time recreating outdoors will likely notice the conspicuous absences of minorities, blacks, Latinos, Asians, Pacific Islanders take your pick. People of color are seldom seen hiking, climbing, skiing,  bird watching, whatever. The reasons why are numerous, but...

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Commentary / 04.11.2009

Madison, WI 5:30 CST Dane County Regional Airport, Gate 12 En route to Banff, Alberta Canada by way of Chicago, Seattle, Calgary I love to travel. I’m heading west today to cover the Banff Mountain Film Festival. Five days of adventure movies, literature and lectures in the Canadian Rockies. Who could ask for more? The bustle of airports and long car rides suit me like a second skin. Aside from paying $15 for a checked bag that used to be free and the preflight strip search, the only thing that inevitably gets me a bit crazed is the anxiety I feel when I’m packing. I’m always afraid that I’ve forgotten something, a mission critical document, piece of clothing or equipment whose absence will spoil the flavor of my Joy Trip.
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