Turning a Passion into Action, by Kara Armano

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.

Active Interest Media’s Jon Dorn talks about multi media content and remote journalism

Here is another snippet from AIM’s Jon Dorn taken from Backbone’s Big Idea Day.

Jon speaks to the relevance of channel-specific content curation and growth of satellite technology in terms of remote (really truly remote) location journalism.

If you get mesmerized by Jon’s sunglasses tan it is because he rode his bike from Steamboat Springs to the SLC Summer OR Market with the SmartWool crew.

The SmartWool ride is a great annual event. This year’s riders including Mark Satkiewicz, Lance Armstrong, H Mavis Fitzgerald, Steve Rendle from VF, OIA’s I Ling Thompson, writer Aaron Bible, SmartWool’s Steve Metcalf, Andy Clurman and Eric Zinczenko from Active Interest Media, , Elizabeth Averbeck from SNEWS and  journalist Ben Cramer.

Cool event, terrific crew and a reminder that relationships and working with exceptional people is at the heart of active lifestyle biz.

 

 

 

The Millennial Generation

This summer, we tasked our intern James with exploring the “Millennial Generation.” Born approximately from 1978-1994, the millennials are the first generation to come of age in the new millennium. In 10-15 years, millennials will make up the majority spending group in the U.S. and will begin to find themselves in positions of political influence. Why should we care? What do millennials mean for your and your brand?

A millennial himself, James was well-suited to delve into the psyche of his generation. Here’s what he came up with:

 

On a completely related but way funnier note, Stephen Colbert weighed in on the Millennials last night. Check it out:

The Colbert Report Mon – Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c
Millennial Generation Soup Campaign
www.colbertnation.com
Colbert Report Full Episodes Political Humor & Satire Blog Video Archive

Extra Innings: Video, Print, Social

PR is like baseball. Hours of semi mundane fundamentals that truly make up the strength of a team and then some rare and overly exciting moments that determine success or failure. At Backbone we are diligent about the fundamental and executional aspects of our job. We do our research, watch and listen, focusing on the fundamentals, all the while waiting for a chance to come up big in extra innings. It is that extra effort that makes the difference.

Here’s a quick summary of three extra innings/projects that we have been affiliated with recently that span video, print and digital.

Teresa Kellett from Sprint and Dom Sagolla from Chaotic Moon were recently featured on Fast Company’s 30 Second MBA. We all met at the GOAT, a Gathering of Artists, Athletes and Technologists in Jackson over the last few years. Fun to see their opinions on the culture of creativity.

Peter Metcalf from Black Diamond Inc. sent us an early holiday present: Utah’s Wasatch Range: Four Season Refuge. For anyone who has climbed, hiked or skied in the Wasatch this book conveys the vital nature this patchwork of public and private land has on the Greater Salt Lake area. Published by Utah based photographer Howie Garber with articles from Mayor Ralph Becker, Brooke Willams, Representative Jim Matheson and Andrew McLean, the book combines thoughtful essays on the delicate balance of the central Wasatch and the perils of loving a place to death. Don’t be fooled by the stellar wildlife photography and germane coffee table feel; a close read of the content prompted Snowbird to refuse to sell the book at their resort even though it is in the heart of Little Cottonwood canyon.

Howie Garber’s book Utah’s Wasatch Range: Four Season Refuge

With the USA Pro Cycling Challenge rolling through Aspen, Something Independent partnered with Whole Foods to interview Backbone on a Local’s Take on race day. Check it out! And congrats to Tejay who took home the stage at Crested Butte on Tuesday!

In the House: Ashley from Orbitz

We have lots of fun folks stopping in and out of the Backbone offices these days- our clients, their athletes, our media partners, friends, family, dogs, and a few randoms who are lost and looking for the yoga studio down the street. Our door is always open!

This week, Ashley O’Neill from Orbitz stopped by to see us and meet with our media team about Orbitz’s new design/layout and capabilities. Since we manage more than a handful of premier destinations these days, this is key info. Thanks for coming to see us in person, Ashley!

Backbone MEDIA

In 1997, when we started Backbone we debated to call it Backbone Media or Backbone PR. As there were only two of us and it was deadlocked we turned to mediation. For mediation we used two systems, one was the 8 Ball which we used more as a new business prognosticator. For yes/no questions we relied on the tried and true system of justice: rock, scissors, paper.

I threw scissors and won and we became Backbone Media.

Scroll forward to today and it proves that sometimes it is better to be lucky than good. The late ’90’s saw the rise of PR and now we all live in a paid/earned/owned impression format that melds social, media planning and buying and new school PR.

As barriers have broken down, connectivity has grown. This is best evidenced by the blurring of traditional media (pure editorial) and the dark side (PR) and the fact that many big brands are media companies on their own right.  Witness, JLD recently writing a piece in Backcountry magazine, Jonathan Georger sitting on a social panel for Aspen Chamber Resort Association and Nate Simmons being on Outside TV, not once but twice recently.

As Backbone’s services continue to expand there is no longer clear delineation between marketing channels. Integration and (for lack of a better word) leverage of all things marketing is the new norm. The mix now requires more quantifiable market research, app development, digital buys/optimization and of course PR.

Which is why if someone thinks you will throw rock you throw scissors.

Shake your Bootie

This video about Teva saving a Santa Barbara Zoo penguin’s booty with a bootie, is a great feel good story (read more here).

But, you know you’ve hit YouTube gold when your video gets remixed. It’s no Double Rainbow but be forewarned, “Penguin With a Funky Shoe” is pretty damn catchy.

First Ascent Vinson Massif shot by Kent Harvey

We are pretty fortunate in this industry to work with a lot of very passionate and talented folks that continue to push the envelope in their respective fields.  There’s been more than one occasion that I’ll be going over athlete reports or expedition updates and have to sit back and just enjoy the amazing shots and video that are captured and appreciate the hard work and risk that went into accomplishing these feats.  This understanding takes on a different aspect when it’s your spouse that is putting himself or herself in harm’s way.  This happens to be the case with our own Amy Harvey.  Check out the latest expedition her husband Kent Harvey just completed with the First Ascent guide team in Antarctica…


Kent Harvey, director/cinematographer http://khfilms.com

Contour is Cranking

Our friends over at Contour have so much cool stuff going on these days it’s hard to keep up. First of all, they introduced the first camera to integrate HD video with GPS tracking. Now you can watch your video while tracking location, speed and altitude – cool! Just a few scant weeks later, Contour announced there was a hidden Bluetooth chip in their GPS camera that connects wirelessly to your iphone or other mobile device to create a live viewfinder for the camera. No more missed shots! This announcement garnered Contour tons of accolades at the annual Consumer Electronics Show including a CES Innovations award, a Best of CES award from CNET and a 2011 CES Hot Stuff Award from Stuff Magazine.

Along the way, Contour has also caught the attention of some big time players in the entertainment industry….like the NFL. Check out the below video of Michael Vick wearing a Contour camera during recent practice for the Pro Bowl.

But at the end of the day, what’s best about Contour cameras is their ability to capture those epic moments in your life. Even (or especially) if it’s an epic FAIL. Thanks to Holly’s bf Ryan for this little gem.

I’m glad to report that Ryan’s Contour camera survived this crash without a scratch, and Ryan’s back is feeling ok – with the help of lots of aspirin.