Trailspace Blog December 2007
Toyota Trundling Ad Irresponsible
Do not attempt this Toyota ad.
Over the holidays I caught a Toyota ad on TV that disturbed me. In the spot, three people push a very large boulder down a steep hill, destroying a truck below—ostensibly so they have a reason to go out and buy a brand new truck.
Ignoring the ad’s obvious wastefulness (nothing new there), I find it deeply disturbing to see such an inherently dangerous activity promoted. In case Toyota hasn’t heard, in August climber Pete Absolon died in Wyoming’s Wind River Range after being struck by a small boulder pushed off the cliff above. (If you haven’t yet, read “Dropped” in January’s Outside for a full account of that tragedy.)
Yes, I know the Toyota bit is "just" an ad, complete with a “do not attempt” footnote, but it’s still extremely irresponsible and troubling. While no one should be getting their outdoor education from TV advertisements, I can’t see this spot without thinking of the potentially deadly and tragic consequences of another person making the same mistake. I hope Toyota gets some sense and pulls the ad, lest anyone else think this is a good idea and another person gets hurt.
You can see the ad—"Toyotathon Phenomenon Commercial (Rock Drop)"—on YouTube.
1% For the Planet Donation Contest Reminder
Don’t forget to write that gear review. Now through the end of the year, Trailspace is holding a 1% Percent For the Planet donation contest. Here’s how it works:
- Write a valid gear review on Trailspace now through December 31, 2007.
- We’ll randomly select one reviewer out of all the valid entries.
- The randomly-selected winner will tell us which environmental group, out of more than 1,500 in 1% For the Planet’s worldwide network, deserves $250.
- We’ll send that approved environmental group $250 in the winner’s name.
This is your chance to do some good for your favorite environmental cause, on our dime.
Holiday Gift Idea: Volunteer Vacation
Take an American Hiking Society Volunteer Vacation in 2008 and you and your loved ones can visit stunning backcountry locations to construct or rebuild footpaths, cabins, and shelters. In the process, you can meet new people, explore canyons, peaks, and valleys, and enjoy quiet evenings around a fire.
Search the AHS's database of more than 70 projects happening nationwide in 2008. Trips are only $275 ($245 for AHS members). Sign up early and receive 10% off, along with the best selection.
American Hiking Society volunteers also have the opportunity to apply for two volunteer expeditions in Chilean Patagonia, both sponsored by The Patagonian Foundation.
Holiday Gift Idea: American Hiking Society Membership
Consider giving a fellow hiker or backpacker a gift membership in the American Hiking Society. A $30, one-year membership includes subscriptions to American Hiker and Backpacker magazines, along with other member benefits.
For $100 you can give a Special Gift Membership Bundle, which also includes a pair of special edition LEKI trekking poles and an American Hiking Society Nalgene bottle. Gift membership bundles are also available by calling 1-800-972-8608 ext. 207.
The American Hiking Society is the only national organization dedicated to promoting and protecting America’s hiking trails, the natural areas that surround them, and the hiking experience itself.
Holiday Gift Idea: Give a Climber the Gift of Access
Give your favorite climber the gift of access and they’ll score some schwag while supporting the Access Fund, a non-profit organization dedicated to keeping climbing areas open and to conserving the climbing environment.
For $75 new members receive membership in the Access Fund, an organic cotton Access Fund T-shirt from prAna, a North Face Access Fund beanie, a Gregory chalkbag, Sterling Ropes cordelette, Marmot TeaZer Mug, Higher Ground Coffee Access Fund Blend, and a seasonal assortment of Clif Bars. Quantities are limited and a $10 shipping and handling fee applies to all domestic orders. Visit the Access Fund for more info on the Access Fund holiday package.
1% For the Planet Auction: It's Time to Bid
Only two days remain in the 1% For the Planet Member Auction. So it’s now time to make your bids before the auction closes at 8 p.m. (EST) Wednesday, December 5. There are even more donations since the auction opened a few weeks back, and some great deals remain.
A few to consider:
Surf session with Yvon Chouinard and Chris Malloy- Patagonia Micro Puff Zip Vest (men’s medium), R3 Purist Jacket (men’s medium), and Ready Mix Jacket (women’s large)
- Core Concepts Cowboy Pow Full Zip and Have Some Crew Neck
- Mountain Khakis Jackson Hole Getaway
Rock climbing class and wilderness survival clinic- Mexico Week of Rivers/Eco-Adventure Discovery trip
- Clif Bar Mojo/Nectar gift bag with Timbuk2 messenger bag
- And my favorite, a Jack Johnson signed guitar
The 100 items donated by 1% For the Planet members also include gifts for the surfer, fly fisherman, and triathlete, as well as green tees, gift certificates, carbon offsets, coffee, wine, photography prints, furniture, and much more.
Browse the 1% Member Auction items. Bid on an item and you could win a cool, unique, green gift for yourself or a friend. Seriously, how often do you get the chance to surf with Yvon Chouinard?
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