Diversity

Banff, Commentary, Diversity, Photography / 29.10.2014

When Madison photographer Eric Baillies asked me to sit for a portrait I was immediately flattered. A talented artist who has dedicated his craft to the creation of tintype prints he graciously offered to capture my picture on an emulsified metal plate. “I'd like to make an image with some of your climbing gear,” he said. “Glasses come to mind.” When I arrived in his production space at Winnebago Studio I also had with me my favorite ice ax. Last used to summit Mount Baker in 2012 along with my...

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Adventure Activism, Destinations, Diversity, Environmental Protection, Expedition Denali, Fly Fishing, Life Out Loud, Outdoor Recreation, Slideshow, The Adventure Gap / 21.10.2014

Often the guidance we need to create a brighter future can be seen through the fading images of the not-so-distant past. And by coming to a better understanding of where we have been we can set a path toward where we most want to go. Less than an hour’s drive from Downtown Denver, Colorado I discovered a carefully preserved memory of yesterday that has now become a dream of tomorrow. Founded in 1922 Lincoln Hills is an outdoor recreation facility under the care and administration of African-American entrepreneurs. Originally...

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Adventure Media Review, Diversity, Expedition Denali, The Adventure Gap / 19.10.2014

[caption id="attachment_2062688" align="aligncenter" width="488"] photo by Carolyne Richardson Sutton[/caption] Under the weight of my backpack I resisted the urge to break into a full sprint as I walked with purpose down Pearl Street. Prone to sweat profusely with even the least physical exertion I moved through the crowd on the mall, dodging other pedestrians at a moderate pace but as quickly as possible. Though I was prepared to give my presentation at the Boulder Bookstore without the benefit of slides, at least one member of the audience who arrived early...

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Diversity, Fly Fishing, Healthy Living, Influencers, Outdoor Recreation, Stand Up Paddling, Urban Revitalization / 29.09.2014

There is nothing more wonderful than the delight of an enthusiastic child. Of the all children who came out to Hunts Point Riverside Park to try Tenkara Fly Fishing for the first time Adrian, age 8, was by far the most over joyed with the prospects of getting a bite. “I really want one of these,” he said holding out his loaner fly rod. “I want to catch fish.” Adrian picked up the basic skill required to cast his line out over the Bronx River. A first time angler from...

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Adventure Media Review, Diversity, Environmental Justice, Expedition Denali, National Parks / 01.09.2014

Fifty years ago this summer in 1964 Charles Madison Crenchaw became the first African-American to climb to the summit of Mount McKinley, the tallest peak in North America. Also known as Denali this peak represents the highest physical point that anyone can achieve in this country. And as metaphor of freedom, this seminal moment in history beautifully illustrates the references to mountains alluded to in Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a dream” speech. "This will be the day when all of God's children will be able to...

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Adventure Activism, Business, Diversity, Outdoor Recreation / 28.08.2014

In a Washington, DC hotel room I resigned myself to the image in the mirror. Years ago I swore among other things that I would never work a job that required me to wear a tie. And as I dressed for an appointment at the prestigious National Press Club in denim jeans, a long sleeve shirt and a blazer I finally abandoned my last attempt at conformity. I slipped loose the top button of my collar, grabbed my camera bag and made for the elevator. Still known in...

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