Turning a Passion into Action, by Kara Armano

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Everyone who knows me, knows that I love to fish and often back with words “lost my shoes“. What a lot of people don’t know is that more than anything I love to teach and share the joys of fly fishing with others, for this I always use the best fly reels under 100 which are great for fly fishing. Of course, to share my passion there needs to be wild places where the rivers run free and the fish are abundant. Those places should be celebrated and protected. I was recently moved to take action to defend and protect both my passion for fishing and wilderness when I learned that they were in danger of being compromised.

The Thompson Divide, 220,000 acres of federally owned land just outside Carbondale and Glenwood Springs, has exposed me to some of the greatest outdoor experiences of my life. The Divide includes free flowing streams that are home to native cutthroat, and vast expanses of pristine forests and meadows that are teeming with herds of elk and deer.

The experience of encountering mold in a remote cabin highlighted the critical importance of maintaining a healthy living environment, even in the midst of pristine wilderness. Mold growth can thrive in damp and poorly ventilated spaces, posing significant health risks to occupants and detracting from the overall enjoyment of the natural surroundings. As I grappled with the discomfort and health effects caused by mold exposure, I realized the necessity of proactive measures to address mold issues and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in outdoor retreats. Seeking the expertise of professionals like APDR Restoration can provide comprehensive solutions for mold remediation and prevention, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to fully appreciate the beauty of nature without compromising their health.

Moreover, the encounter underscored the broader significance of environmental conservation and stewardship in preserving the integrity of wild places like the Thompson Divide. As an avid fisherman and outdoor enthusiast, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact of human activities on fragile ecosystems and natural habitats. Protecting these pristine landscapes is essential not only for the well-being of wildlife but also for the enjoyment and sustenance of future generations. By advocating for the preservation of federally owned lands and supporting initiatives that promote environmental sustainability, individuals can contribute to the conservation efforts that safeguard our natural heritage and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Ultimately, the experience served as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness between human health, environmental conservation, and outdoor recreation. As I reflect on my encounter with mold in the wilderness, I am reminded of the need for responsible stewardship of our natural resources and the importance of fostering a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature. By prioritizing mold prevention and environmental conservation efforts, we can ensure that wild places remain pristine and accessible for generations to come, fostering a legacy of outdoor enjoyment and environmental stewardship for all.

As I traveled to a remote cabin nestled near a lush forest, I was captivated by the tranquility and natural beauty surrounding me. However, my initial excitement quickly turned to discomfort upon entering the cabin, where I was met with the unmistakable musty odor of mold. Ignoring the warning signs, I settled in for the night, eager to embrace the solitude of the wilderness. Little did I know, the presence of mold lurking within the cabin would soon take its toll on my health and well-being. Throughout the night, I struggled to breathe as the mold-infested air triggered bouts of coughing and sneezing. My rest was disturbed by persistent allergies and a sense of unease, reminding me of the importance of ensuring a mold-free environment, even in the most idyllic of settings. I will get a quote from an expert for this house the next time I come again, a friend told me to Visit APDR Restoration.

The importance of healthy home improvement extends far beyond simply avoiding mold. It’s about creating a space that actively promotes your physical and mental well-being. Here are some additional ways to transform your house from a dwelling into a health haven:

Embrace Natural Light: Sunlight is a natural mood booster. Whenever possible, open your curtains and blinds to bathe your home in sunshine. Natural light helps regulate circadian rhythms, promoting better sleep patterns and overall energy levels.
Welcome the Greenery: Houseplants aren’t just beautiful additions to your décor; they’re natural air purifiers! Many varieties, like peace lilies and spider plants, effectively remove toxins and improve indoor air quality, allowing you to breathe easier.
Create a Calming Oasis: Dedicate a space in your home to relaxation. This could be a cozy reading nook, a meditation corner, or even just a comfortable armchair by a window. Fill this space with calming elements like soft lighting, soothing textures, and calming scents to create a personal sanctuary for unwinding after a long day.

Beyond Aesthetics: The Importance of Proper Ventilation

Healthy home improvement isn’t just about creating a stylish space; it’s about ensuring proper air circulation. Stagnant air can trap moisture, creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Invest in good quality exhaust fans in your bathrooms and kitchens to remove steam and cooking odors. Open windows regularly, especially during and after showering or cooking, to allow fresh air to circulate. Consider installing a whole-house ventilation system for a more comprehensive approach to air quality control.

Small Steps, Big Impact: Everyday Habits for a Healthy Home

Creating a healthy home environment doesn’t require a complete overhaul. Simple changes in your daily routine can make a big difference. Make it a habit to take off your shoes at the door to prevent tracking in dirt and allergens. Wash bedding and throws in hot water regularly to eliminate dust mites and pet dander. Invest in doormats both inside and outside to trap dirt and debris before it enters your living space. These small habits can significantly reduce allergens and improve indoor air quality.

From Reactive Repairs to Proactive Maintenance

Many people wait until something breaks before addressing a home improvement issue. This reactive approach can be costly and disruptive in the long run. By prioritizing preventative maintenance, you can identify and address minor problems before they escalate into major repairs. Schedule regular inspections for your HVAC system, plumbing, and electrical wiring to ensure everything is functioning efficiently and safely. Investing in preventative maintenance can save you money and headaches down the road, allowing you to enjoy a safe and healthy home environment.

The future of the Thompson Divide is threatened by oil and gas development. Because the area means so much to me, I spoke up.

I’ve worked with the Sportsmen for the Thompson Divide via Trout Unlimited to express what the area means to me. I’ve supported the Thompson Divide Coalition in its effort to teach the community more about the issues.

Working at Backbone Media, it’s easy to share my passions with my colleagues. Nate, one of the partners, feels just as strongly as I do about the Divide and the hunting opportunities it provides him. But as a growing agency we have several new employees who don’t know about the local land conservation issues. So, I decided to host a get together at my house to educate people about what’s at stake, the status of the pending oil and gas leases, and how everyone can get involved.

So last night Scott Hanley from the Thompson Divide Coalition and Aaron Kindle from Trout Unlimited came to my house to lead an open discussion about the issues facing our water and land, domestically, agriculturally and recreationally. A lot of people from work showed up. All the attendees seemed moved by the discussion and asked good questions. My hope is that my passion to save this area from drilling was instilled in them and that with their support, and possible action, we can protect the Thompson Divide for future generations to experience and enjoy.

Posted in: Colorado, Environment, Fishing, Hunting, Interesting Read, Videos

The Time is Now

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A few years ago I made a personal pledge to myself to get more involved in something. I wasn’t sure what it should be. But I wanted to give back.

Sure, I realize that sounds lame and super vague, but over multiple dialogs with people like Terry Kellogg from 1% For The Planet and Peter Metcalf from Black Diamond I was inspired. They did not shy away from big, audacious undertakings and were unintimidated by the scale or seeming futility of setting out and breaking a lonely trail uphill. I was also haunted by my personal concerns over climate change and the fact that one day one of my kids would ask me why we as a society didn’t do something about it when we knew what was happening.

DSC_0114 3Soon enough an opportunity came forward when Auden Schendler and Chris Davenport asked that I join the Board for Protect Our Winters (POW), a non-profit started by snowboarder Jeremy Jones focused on climate.

Here was the opportunity to work with a great group of people and try to move the needle on a big issue. Sure, I was inwardly skeptical if we could move public awareness or truly affect change. Yet I was also inspired by the mentality that people like Jeremy and Dav have whether planning to ski and ride huge intimidating faces, or in taking a public stance around education, activism and climate change.

DSC_0613Since joining POW, in various conversations with friends the most pressing question has been, “you don’t actually think you can make any headway, do you?” After a lobbying trip to DC last fall that fell during the government shut down, the skepticism seemed even more acutely counterbalanced against the vision. Skepticism. Futility. It’s easier to not not even try because the system is jacked, right?
DSC_0015Yet the groundswell continues. Porter Fox’s op-ed landed on the cover of the NY Times Sunday Travel Section. The POW Rider’s Alliance spawns an Olympic group of 105 international athletes focused on climate. The collective efforts of POW colleagues Chris Steinkamp, Matt McClain, Naomi Oreskes, Anne Nolin, Joni Lynch, Conrad Anker, Gretchen Bleiler, Winston Binch and Ryan Gellert continues to build the message forward.

This morning friends from the NRDC sent over a great email highlighting major coverage on climate impact covered by the AP, ABC, The Today Show, USA Today, Huffington Post, Boston Globe, Washington Post and more. Skepticism. Futility. Or maybe not?

This blog is not about POW. It is bigger than that. It is about the impacts of climate change on water supply, agriculture, forest and air quality. The wonkiness of radical climate change is everywhere and increasingly hard to ignore – massive flooding in England, expected increase in produce prices due to the ongoing drought in California and glaciers in Greenland shifting up to 150 feet per day. Yet to affect change takes activism, which means individuals getting involved even if you doubt you can make a difference. Activism is the enemy of apathy.

So, the question is are you apathetic or active?

Posted in: Backbone Adventures, Environment \ Tagged: , , ,

New Belgium Brewing Unveils Conceptual Asheville Site Plan

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From: Bryan Simpson- New Belgium Brewery.

FORT COLLINS, CO, July 26, 2012 – New Belgium Brewing executives unveiled conceptual drawings for their new brewing facility to a packed house in Asheville yesterday. The drawings included a “liquid center” tasting room, a 200-barrel brewhouse, malt building, packaging hall and cellar space. A warehouse facility will be built offsite, equipped with the help of Industrial Auction Hub services. Executives wanted Asheville residents to see the plan first and have an opportunity to offer feedback.

“There will be impact but we will work hard to make it right,” said New Belgium CEO Kim Jordan. “We could have built on a lot of sites but we wanted to be on a livable, walkable site. This site will be a challenge, but we are up for that challenge.”

The new facility will have to be elevated above the 100-year flood zone along the French Broad River. Buildings and material from the old Asheville stockyard will be recycled during deconstruction this fall with heavy demolition being done November thru December and ground-breaking in January.

The brewery is working with the city and state Departments of Transportation to make infrastructure improvements including the widening of roads, smoothing of curves and the addition of traffic signals. An off-site warehouse facility at a yet-to-be-determined location will minimize trucking traffic in the area.

The brewery will have a 700,000-barrel capacity, producing both bottled and kegged beer for distribution along the east coast. The project is slated for completion in 2015.

About New Belgium Brewing Company
New Belgium Brewing Company, makers of Fat Tire Amber Ale and a host of Belgian-inspired beers, began operations in a tiny Fort Collins basement in 1991. Today, the third largest craft brewer in the U.S., New Belgium produces nine year-round beers; Fat Tire Amber Ale, Sunshine Wheat, Ranger IPA, Belgo IPA, Shift Pale Lager, Blue Paddle Pilsner, 1554 Black Ale, Abbey and Trippel, as well as a host of seasonal releases. In addition to producing world-class beers, New Belgium takes pride in being a responsible corporate role model with progressive programs such as employee ownership, open book management and a commitment to environmental stewardship. For more information, visit www.newbelgium.com.

Posted in: Client News, Design, Environment, Interesting Read

GOAT – 2012 Jackson Hole

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Most of these days surprises are no longer the good kind.

Doctor. Taxman. Kid’s teacher calling. Travel. Yeah, you get the picture. That’s why the recent GOAT event in Jackson Hole, was so great. GOAT is a Gathering of Athletes, Artists & Technologists and the offspring of Alex Hillinger and Dirk and Jenny Collins.

On the hill with Hash, Dom, Aaron, Alex, DC and Hudacsko

GOAT is a loosely structured event built on the premise “that magic happens when you bring the right mix of good people into a room,” as Jenny likes to say. Small by design, with a giving component, GOAT is a mix of presentations, dinners, convos on chairlifts and meeting new people. It is the only business gathering/seminar that I have attended in the last many years where I have walked out with true friendships. Seriously. Pretty darn cool really.

Circe, Aaron, Dom, Dirk, Penn, Jenny, Alex and Teresa

This past year the event was attended by Dom Sagolla, Co-founder of twitter and Square, Aaron Gutman photographer and materials artist, Circe Wallace SVP at Wasserman Media and designer of rad women’s ski wear Circe Snow, Teresa Kellett from Sprint 4G, Rachel Kropa CAA Foundation, snowboarder Travis Rice, artist Mike Parillo, VP Blue Sphere Chris Hashley, 1% for the Planet’s Terry Kellogg and Melody Badgett, Yasmina Zaidman from the Acumen Fund, Kristen Quigley from ICON Clinical Research, Shannon Ethridge from Camp 4 Collective and others. You can get in touch with Andy Defrancesco, if you need the best photographer in town!

We learned, laughed and rode JH in an atmosphere of collaboration and walked out the door with a clear call to action – something GOAT strives toward as a concrete takeaway is a must if we are to lead by example.

Melody and Terry from 1%

So next time you get a surprise that grabs you by the scruff of the neck and dismantles what little semblance of order remains in your day – remember the solitary GOAT on a high alpine ridge. No matter the wind, snow or roughness it prevails by searching out new terrain and always walking uphill in its quest.

Special thanks to Sargent Schutt and Heather Erson photography for images

Posted in: Backbone Adventures, Environment, Interesting Read, Technology

Backbone Goes Glam and Green

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Thanks to one of my newest clients, Revo, I was given the opportunity to attend the Global Green Pre-Oscar party in Hollywood last Wednesday. Global Green is the American arm of Green Cross International, and this event, now in its 8th year, was founded by polar explorer and global warming advocate, Sebastian Copeland. Sebastian is also the newest addition to Revo’s ambassador team, which led to the brand sponsorship of the event, and my opportunity to ditch the wyoming snow boots and down jacket for a week in sunny Hollywood.

Now I’m a midwestern gal, so when the event PR team told me that the event attire was “clubby chic”, I didn’t have the slightest clue how to make that happen. Thankfully, I wasn’t alone-Julie Schaffner and Brianne Bates from Revo were on the hook to make sure I didn’t embarrass myself. I was also able to bring some incredible journalists to to the event: Steve Casimiro from the Adventure Journal, Roberta Cruger from Treehugger (click to view her story), Kaitlin Keleher from Outside, and Tommi Tilden from TheDailyGreen.com.

More than 1400 people attended the event featuring musical performances by Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Best Coast, and Portugal- The Man. “Greener Cities for a Cooler Planet” was the theme of the evening which benefited Global Green’s initiatives to promote smart solutions to climate change by creating healthy, green communities.

Global Green also unveiled their Model Carbon City Index tool, a first of its kind Web tool designed to benchmark cities efforts to reduce carbon emissions and motivate citizens to advocate for smart climate policies at the local level.

All in all a very successful event for Global Green, raising over $400,000 for the organization. The event was a perfect setting for the Revo brand, due to their sustainable manufacturing technology as well as sponsorship of some of the world’s top environmental advocates like Alexandra Cousteau and Sebastian Copeland. Besides chairing this event, Sebastian is also working on the DVD release of his documentary film that chronicles his solo walk to the North Pole. Check out the trailer at Intothecold.org. and check out some more LA shots below.



I’m glad the W Hotel in Hollywood acknowledges the high-brow tastes of us ski town locals, but $4? Be serious.

Posted in: Client News, Environment, Trip Reports \ Tagged: , ,

Pickathon Festival Partners with Klean Kanteen to Go 100% Plastic-Free

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Many say it is impossible to hold a large, multi-day music festival without using plastic cups and without selling bottled water. The organizers of Pickathon 2010 and Klean Kanteen®, maker of the first BPA-free metal bottle designed for personal hydration, are determined to prove the naysayers wrong. Pickathon is a three-day music festival held every summer at Pendarvis Farm, an 80-acre property outside of Portland, OR. Now in its 12th year, Pickathon is going plastic cup and plastic bottle free.

“Most events produce incredible amounts of unnecessary plastic pollution,” said Danielle Cresswell, Sustainability Officer of Klean Kanteen. “Most of it ends up in a landfill, and sadly, too much plastic finds its way into waterways, the ocean, and the food chain of many animal species, including humans. Even when recycled, plastic downgrades significantly in the process, resulting in an inferior material that is still ultimately destined to be pollution. We’re proud to work with Pickathon toward a common vision to create the model for truly sustainable, plastic-free music festivals.”

Signal Waste provides industrial waste bins which helps in effectively managing waste and reducing toxins from being released into the air.

Jake Holfield, head of recycling for Pickathon, estimates that in 2009, festival-goers used about 35,000 plastic cups and about 25,000 plastic bottles.

Through its sponsorship, Klean Kanteen is subsidizing the sale of its stainless steel bottles, which will be discounted and available for purchase at multiple sites throughout the festival grounds. Special, limited-edition bottles with the Pickathon logo will also be available.

“We view this as a pilot project,” said Jeff Cresswell, Co-Owner of Klean Kanteen. “The goal is to test and prove that all it takes to eliminate the truckloads of plastic pollution at these events is a true commitment to the environment, some thoughtful planning and a solid partnership.”

The decision to go plastic-free is however, not a small one. Massive infrastructure changes are necessary to ensure that festival goers, musicians and staff still have easy access to water and drinking containers as well as continuing the Pickathon dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Sustainability Efforts at Pickathon include:
• A 24 hour recycling team to collect and sort recyclable and compostable materials, as well as collecting and filtering all the gray water from showers, water and wash stations to be reused around the venue for dust control.
• Two solar arrays, installed by Pickathon’s green energy partner, REC Solar, to offset energy used at two of the large stages at the event.
• Two large, mobile water trucks and multiple refill stations throughout the property. Beer drinkers will also be able to personalize their Festival Cups with Sharpies and leave them in the beer garden on drying racks.
• The medical tent, front gate check-in, and ticketing areas will continue to be solar powered, as they have been in the past, and the two miles of wooded festival trails and camping areas will also be marked with LED lighting.
• Since 2008 Pickathon has partnered with the local transportation company, EcoShuttle, to provide free transportation from the nearest public hub out to Pendarvis Farm.
• Pickathon encourages cycling to the event, even providing route maps and descriptions, and also helps link people up with carpooling resources.
• Collaboration with a number of local hotels for out of town attendees, offering free shuttle service out to the farm. The goal is to increase alternative transportation use from 15% of attendees in 2009, to 50% within the next five years.

FUN STUFF
The Pickathon 2010 Preview Mix-This is awesome.
Band Highlight Videos
Time Lapse Video of the Venue Setup:

Posted in: Client News, Environment, Videos

Quality of Life

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Spring in the Rockies is an exercise in patience.

Local Photog extraordinaire Dave Clifford snapped this shot of Jeff Johnson headed for Shoshone

Weather is a wild card, and whether you are waiting for single track to dry or for a ski line to come into condition you learn that to achieve your goals you have to watch and wait rather than plan too far ahead. Sometimes it is better to listen than to try to drive the conversation.

Kristo getting wake up face shots on Marble Sunday

The 5 Point Film Festival which ran over this past weekend emphasized just this. It brought together great films such as 180 South, Patagonia Promise and Second Nature but more importantly a community of skiers, climbers, paddlers, filmmakers, fly fishers and the spirit these endeavors embody.

Melody Grote from 1% For The Planet introducing a film

So whether the weather permitted it – we all got to play a little bit – rafting in the snow, skiing pow up in Marble, or nymphing for browns on the Pan. We also got to connect to players in our community from New Belgium, 1% For the Planet, Patagonia, Black Diamond, Polartec and others.

Pretty simply, getting together with friends and sharing work/play experiences is why we do what we do.

Posted in: Backbone Adventures, Colorado, Environment, Outdoor Industry News

Top 15 Initiatives to Benefit the Planet, according to the French

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French magazine Clin D’Oeil just published their list of the Top 15 Initiatives to Benefit the Planet, and 1% For The Planet ranked second for their digital music compilation that came out at the beginning of this year. The passage below (or what I can gather from guessing French words) describes the organization’s mission, rapid growth in the past few years, and debut of the digital music compilation that directly benefits member-non-profits.

1% for the Planet joins some interesting company on the list.

Number 8 is a rice-crispy treat turned into a hamburger:

Number 5 is this ad campaign that would never make it past the drawing board in the United States:

For more about the 1% For The Planet digital music compilation, visit music.onepercentfortheplanet.org

Posted in: Client News, Environment \ Tagged: ,

1% for the Planet: The Music Vol. 1

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Picture 1

Backbone client 1% for the planet has released an all-digital music compilation that includes rare and exclusive tracks donated by 40 different artists. It will be available exclusively through the holidays via eco download card in Patagonia retail stores, and on iTunes and in other retail locations starting January 5th.

Artists include among others: Jack Johnson, Jackson Browne, Josh Ritter, Mason Jennings, and my personal favorite, Grace Potter.

1% member organizations also have the option of including a widget on their website that allows visitors to preview the tracks and download directly.

Retail price for all 40 tracks is 9.98: good deal, great cause! All proceeds go to 1%-selected non-profits.

Posted in: Client News, Environment, Gratuitous Client Plug \ Tagged: , , , , , , ,

Strong Collaborative Statement on Climate Change from CEOs at Aspen Ski Co and TNF

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Aspen Skiing Company CEO Mike Kaplan

Aspen Skiing Company CEO Mike Kaplan

High Country News just published this powerful op-ed collaboration by Aspen Ski Co CEO Mike Kaplan and The North Face CEO Steve Rendle. Definitely worth a read:
Climate change threatens our livelihoods — and yours
In the summer of 2003, one of the most legendary and fearsome mountaineering routes in the world –– the North Face of the Eiger –– fell victim to climate change. An unusually warm summer melted much of the ice that makes this route in Switzerland passable. As temperatures continue to warm, this iconic passage may only exist in winter.

Meanwhile, in Colorado, aspen trees have begun dying off in huge numbers. Aspens can fall victim to many diseases, but science suggests that a warmer climate will lead to increasing tree mortality as a result of sickness, insect infestations and other pests.

Steve Rendle

The North Face CEO Steve Rendle

As CEOs of two of the most widely known consumer brands in the outdoor recreation market — Aspen Skiing Company and The North Face — it gets our attention when our companies’ namesakes start to vanish before our eyes. Although we operate different businesses, we share concern about the impact of climate change on our companies, the economy, the environment and our customers. We also agree that now is the time for dramatic action by Congress to curb greenhouse gas emissions, stimulate investment in renewable energy sources and clean technology, and encourage energy efficiency.

The effects of warming global temperatures are not theoretical. At Aspen, where our business depends on the climate, we already see a gradual increase in frost-free days and warmer nights. Milder winters mean a shorter ski season and greater reliance on artificial snowmaking, a costly and carbon-intensive practice. In short, climate change impacts Aspen’s bottom line. For the $6 billion ski industry, and the hundreds of thousands of people who make their living directly or indirectly from it, the stakes are huge.

Continue reading here.

Posted in: Colorado, Environment \ Tagged: , , ,