Archives: Press Releases

JUPITER, Fla. (Dec. 7, 2023) – Born on the water and built for those who devote their lives to exploring it, Costa Sunglasses announces a new partnership with the Eddie Aikau Foundation, sponsoring the 39th Annual Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational. One of the most revered big wave surfing events in the world, The Eddie celebrates legendary Hawaiian Eddie Aikau. A champion surfer and heroic lifeguard, Eddie completed 500 successful rescue missions, never losing a life until he lost his own in an attempt to save his fellow crew members on the Polynesian voyaging canoe Hōkūleʻa after it capsized in rough seas.

The official Opening Ceremony of The Eddie is Friday, Dec. 8, at Waimea Bay on the North Shore of Oahu in Hawaiʻi. The contest, held only when wave heights consistently reach 40-feet, has a waiting period from Dec. 14, 2023 to Mar. 12, 2024. The Eddie is at the heart of the global surfing community, and being invited to surf in the storied event is one of the greatest honors a big wave surfer can experience. Costa ambassador Mark Healey, who placed third in last year’s competition, will compete as a 2023 invitee.

For more than 40 years, Costa has been deeply connected to the watery world and the community of adventurers and explorers that come to life on it. Partnering with the Eddie Aikau Foundation is an opportunity for Costa to support the surfing community through The Eddie. Costa will be onsite providing invitees, alternates and event teams with sunglasses and gear from its Untangled™ Collection, gear built from recycled fishing nets. Water silos and reusable drinkware will be on hand as part of Costa’s Kick Plastic® Program, which helps to reduce the amount of single-use plastic finding its way into our waterways. And on Saturday, Dec. 2, Costa participated in a cleanup with the Eddie Aikau Foundation at Waimea Bay Beach Park in preparation for the Opening Ceremony.

“We strive to incorporate community into everything we do at Costa,” said Jed Larkin, Costa Brand Director. “The Eddie is more than a contest, it is a celebration of Eddie’s legacy and the big wave surfing community. We are incredibly grateful to the Eddie Aikau Foundation for bringing us all together through our shared love of the ocean.”

“We place a strong value on community service and supporting ocean-related activities and events here at the Eddie Aikau Foundation,” said Linda Ipsen, President of the Eddie Aikau Foundation & former wife of Eddie Aikau. “We recognize Costa’s unwavering commitment to these same ethos and welcome them on board. Our partnership has already extended beyond the event with help at the beach cleanup and with getting ready for the Opening Ceremony, and we truly appreciate their support.”

The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational honors Eddie Aikau, who was the first lifeguard for the North Shore, home to notoriously dangerous waves. Passionate about Hawaiian culture and the movement to revive the lost art of Polynesian wayfinding, Eddie was selected to be a crew member of the double-hulled voyaging canoe Hōkūleʻa. On Mar. 17, 1978, during Hōkūleʻa’s second voyage to Tahiti from Hawaiʻi, Eddie gave his life trying to save his fellow crew members when the sailing canoe capsized in rough seas. Through the surf contest and other activities, the Eddie Aikau Foundation helps keep his legacy alive and lifts up the importance of Native Hawaiian culture, sharing Eddie’s story and values with the world.

To learn more about what Costa stands for and the inspiration behind what we do, including our best-selling collection of sunglasses built for long days on the water, visit Costasunglasses.com.

About the Eddie Aikau Foundation

The Eddie Aikau Foundation is a charitable organization created to share Eddie Aikau’s life, contributions and accomplishments while promoting education and the advancement of Hawaiian culture. Founded by the Aikau family, the Foundation pays tribute to Edward Ryon Makuahanai Aikau in honor of his love for his family and others, his courage and compassion in saving lives, and his dedication to Hawaiian people and culture. Eddie’s legacy is a pure symbol of the Aloha Spirit. The Foundation’s ambitious goals are realized through advocacy, education and philanthropy. These goals include: advancing education and community service; supporting ocean-related activities and events; assisting in the preservation and perpetuation of Hawaiian history and culture; and encouraging Hawaiians and visitors alike to respect and contribute to the growth and development of Hawaiian culture. The Foundation strives to inspire people to develop a strong sense of pride in themselves, their heritage and their community through Eddie’s remarkable spirit and character. Learn more at the Eddie Aikau Foundation website and on Instagram at @TheEddieAikau.

About Costa Sunglasses

As the first manufacturer of color-enhancing all-polarized glass sunglass lenses, Costa combines superior lens technology with unparalleled fit and durability. Costa has made the highest quality, best-performing sunglasses and prescription sunglasses (Rx) for outdoor enthusiasts since 1983, and now its product portfolio includes optical frames. Costa’s growing cult-brand status ties directly to its purpose to provide high-quality products with a focus on sustainability and conservation as the company works hard to protect the waters it calls home. From the use of sustainable and water-friendly materials to its Kick Plastic® initiative, #OneCoast efforts and meaningful partnerships with mission-aligned organizations, Costa encourages people to help protect the Earth’s natural resources in any way they can. Find out more on Costa’s website and join the conversation on Facebook or Instagram at @CostaSunglasses.

BOULDER, Colo. (Dec. 7, 2023) – Backpacker’s Pantry, the family-owned maker of gourmet adventure meals, and Astronaut Foods, the original source for freeze-dried astronaut ice cream, announced today the promotion of Kris Luikart to Vice President of Operations.

With an extensive background of varied management experience, as well as her previous work with Backpacker’s Pantry as a Quality Assurance Manager, Luikart is prepared to step into this role and drive the company to operational success.  As VPO, Luikart will oversee production, supply and demand planning, quality assurance, and warehousing and logistics for the company.

“We are thrilled to elevate Kris to this critical role,” said Duane Primozich, CEO of Backpacker’s Pantry. “Since she joined, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership, deep industry knowledge, and a commitment to operational excellence that aligns perfectly with our company’s values and vision. Kris’s contributions have been invaluable in shaping our operational strategies, and I am confident she will continue to drive innovation and efficiency in her new role.”

The outgoing VPO, Jean Wallace, served in this role for nearly three years and will be retiring. “Jean Wallace has been instrumental in our success, and we are grateful for her dedication, impact, and knowledge at American Outdoor Products. We wish her a very happy and relaxing retirement,” said Primozich

Before working at Backpacker’s Pantry, Luikart worked as the Quality Assurance Manager at Lily’s Sweets. She has extensive knowledge of food processing, food product development, food chemistry, and food quality and safety.

“With great enthusiasm, I embrace the exciting journey that lies ahead in my new role with the incredible team at American Outdoor Products. This company has not only been a great place to work but an inspiring environment that fuels passion and innovation,” said Luikart. “I am genuinely excited to lead our dedicated team towards expanding the horizons of Backpacker’s Pantry and Astronaut Foods, ensuring that our products become trusted companions on countless adventures to come.”

Backpacker’s Pantry products are all USA-made and the brand donates 1% of every sale, every day, to nonprofits around the world via 1% For The Planet. For more information on Backpacker’s Pantry, please visit: https://backpackerspantry.com

About Backpacker’s Pantry

Backpacker’s Pantry is a Boulder-based, family-owned producer of gourmet adventure meals made with healthy and sustainable ingredients. Since 1951, the company has been delivering high-quality freeze-dried meals with an emphasis on taste. To give back to the community we love, the places we adventure and the planet we must protect, Backpacker’s Pantry donates 1% of every sale, every day to nonprofits around the world through 1% For the Planet and is 100% solar powered. Today, Backpacker’s Pantry is sold in over 2,000 stores in North America. For more information and a complete list of products, visit https://backpackerspantry.com.

About Astronaut Foods

Founded in 1974 in conjunction with NASA and based in Boulder, Colorado, Astronaut Foods is the original source for freeze-dried ice cream — an out of this world treat. Today, the company sells freeze-dried ice cream sandwiches and freeze-dried fruit. Astronaut Foods can be found in museums, toy shops, amusement parks and outdoor stores all across North America, Europe, and Asia. Additionally, Astronaut Foods is dedicated to supporting people and organizations whose goal is to push the boundaries of space exploration and discovery. For more information and a complete list of products, visit astronautfoods.com.

About American Outdoor Products

American Outdoor Products (AOP) is a food manufacturer located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Boulder, CO.  Established in 1951, American Outdoor Products remains an independent, privately held, family-owned and operated company distributing products throughout the world. Inspired by a passion for unique cuisine and exciting adventures, the company produces Backpacker’s Pantry, adventure food for the outdoors; Astronaut Foods, out-of-this-world novelty treats; Chef Soraya grab-and-go plant-based meals; and Colorado Spice, all-natural and organic artisan spice blends. To learn more, visit: https://backpackerspantry.com

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PHOENIX – Dec. 6, 2023 – Off Madison Ave, a Phoenix-based integrated travel and recreation marketing firm, today announced the acquisition of Boston-based, award-winning public relations agency CGPR. Off Madison Ave sought a partner to complement its positioning and allow for market expansion. CGPR has a proven track record of introducing consumers to outdoor experiences from active lifestyle brands including adidas Terrex, Canada Goose, ewool, Houdini Sportswear, Keen, LOWA Boots, Nite Ize, Moosejaw and more.

“CGPR represents a strategic addition to our company. Their expertise bridges travel with active lifestyle, deepening our roots in the travel and outdoor recreation space,” said David Anderson, co-founder and chief executive officer for Off Madison Ave. “The rich experience Chris and her team bring in marketing consumer lifestyle products is a natural fit for our agency.”

“Together, we market the products and places that make for epic adventures,” added Roger Hurni, co-founder and chief creative officer for Off Madison Ave. “Put simply, we inspire people to Go. See. Do.”

“Our two agencies share a passion for the outdoors. We recognize the immense mental and physical benefits getting outdoors brings to today’s topsy-turvy world,” said Chris Goddard, president and founder of CGPR. “This is an opportunity to evolve our services, extending our reach by collaborating with the best in the business. It’s definitely a case where one plus one equals three.” Goddard will continue to serve as President of CGPR, operating as a division of Off Madison Ave in the Boston, Massachusetts area.

Off Madison Ave and CGPR clients will benefit from a full suite of expertise and capabilities across behavior design, public relations and social media strategy, crisis communications, creative campaign development, media planning, digital media, production and branding services.

The acquisition coincides with two milestone anniversaries, as Off Madison Ave celebrates its 25th year of business and CGPR marks 30 years of operations this year. CGPR is the fifth merger and acquisition by Off Madison Ave since 2005. This specific investment takes the agency’s expansion global and strengthens its leadership across travel and recreation marketing channels. The deal was facilitated by Barney who was responsible for introducing CGPR to Off Madison Ave. The terms of the deal were not released.

About Off Madison Ave

Now in its 25th year of operation, Off Madison Ave provides holistic marketing that inspires people to visit cities, attractions, and the great outdoors. Founded in 1998 in Phoenix, Arizona, Off Madison Ave’s service offerings include integrated marketing campaigns, behavior change campaigns, brand development and brand transformation, as well as reputation management. Clients include WD-40, Arizona Office of Tourism,Grand Canyon Conservancy, Maricopa Association of Governments, Arizona Game & Fish, Arizona State Parks & Trails and more. Off Madison Ave is also a proud partner in the Worldcom Public Relations Group.

About CGPR

CGPR provides strategic communications for the consumer active lifestyle category, with a special focus on outdoor brands that intersect fashion with technology. Clients have included adidas Terrex, Houdini Sportswear, LOWA Boots, Nite Ize, Outdoor Retailer, PrimaLoft, UYN Sports, and W.L. Gore & Associates, among others. Celebrating 30 years of operations, CGPR creates long-term relationships with clients by delivering insight across media relations, affiliate marketing, influencer engagement, event management and corporate communications.

 

 

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PARK CITY, Utah (Dec. 6, 2023) – U.S. Ski & Snowboard, the national governing body of Olympic skiing and snowboarding, is elevating its merchandise program in an exclusive partnership with Backcountry, the leading specialty retailer for outdoor gear and apparel.

“We are incredibly excited to partner with Backcountry,” says U.S. Ski & Snowboard President and CEO Sophie Goldschmidt. “Backcountry has a rich history in the outdoor industry and we are delighted to engage with the brand in new and unique ways, while offering a quality U.S. Ski & Snowboard collection.”

Backcountry’s apparel design team has revamped the U.S. Ski & Snowboard merchandise collection with new hoodie and t-shirt designs that embody the spirit of the U.S. Ski & Snowboard organization with modern graphics and silhouettes. The collection will feature lifestyle and fan merchandise, such as the Stripe Team Hoodie ($69.00), Big Air Snowboard Long-Sleeve Crew ($34.00), and Big Air Ski T-Shirt ($29.00). The U.S. Ski & Snowboard merchandise is available exclusively on the Backcountry website at https://www.backcountry.com/usskiandsnowboard. The new U.S. Ski & Snowboard merchandise store launches today and apparel will be available for immediate purchase.

“Our collaboration with U.S. Ski & Snowboard marks a significant milestone for Backcountry,” says Backcountry chief product officer, Colby Black. “This partnership goes beyond merchandise. It signifies a commitment to excellence, innovation, and a shared passion for winter sports. Together, we are proud to launch an exclusive collection that reflects the essence of both our brands and offers customers a curated experience.”

For more information and media inquiries, please email Andrea Green at andrea.green@rygr.us.

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About U.S. Ski & Snowboard

U.S. Ski & Snowboard is the Olympic and Paralympic National Governing Body (NGB) of ski and snowboard sports in the USA, based in Park City, Utah. Tracing its roots directly back to 1905, the organization represents nearly 200 elite skiers and snowboarders competing on 10 teams: alpine, cross country, freestyle moguls, freestyle aerials, snowboard, freeski, nordic combined, ski jumping, Para alpine and Para snowboard. In addition to the elite teams, U.S. Ski & Snowboard also provides leadership and direction for tens of thousands of young skiers and snowboarders across the USA, encouraging and supporting them in achieving excellence. By empowering national teams, clubs, coaches, parents, officials, volunteers and fans, U.S. Ski & Snowboard is committed to the progression of its sports, athlete success and the value of team. For more information, visit www.usskiandsnowboard.org.

About Backcountry

From the one-on-one expertise of Backcountry Gearheads to its epic selection of the best in  both style and performance, Backcountry has been a leading outdoor retailer since 1996. Dialing in your gear closet, exploring your backcountry, recharging with après—Backcountry elevates the entire outdoor experience. In 2018, Backcountry began building its own Gearhead-inspired products; the fast-growing Built By Backcountry ski, bike, climb, hike, fly fish, and après lines include collabs with trusted brands like GORE-TEX, Pertex, and ALLIED Down. After 27 years as a successful online retailer, Backcountry opened its first brick and mortar location in Park City, UT and has since expanded its retail footprint to include nine stores from coast to coast, offering a seamless omnichannel experience for its consumers. For more information, visit www.backcountry.com.

 

 

 

 

Washington, D.C. (Dec. 6, 2023) — With recently released economic and participation data showing ongoing rapid growth in outdoor recreation, public lands need improvements and additional financial support to help manage those new levels of use, according to Outdoor Alliance (OA), a non-profit that works on behalf of the human-powered outdoor recreation community to protect public lands and waters. A first-of-its-kind package of legislation championed by OA and introduced in the House in recent weeks could foster some of those improvements, and voicing direct public support to legislators in December may help it pass.

Outdoor Alliance and its partners have been working for years to develop and pass a package of recreation policy to improve outdoor recreation on public lands and waters. In recent weeks, the U.S. Senate and House each have introduced complementary packages of outdoor recreation policy: America’s Outdoor Recreation Act (AORA) in the Senate and the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act in the House.

The public can help move this legislation forward by contacting their representatives in December to support it. Outdoor Alliance has established a quick-action form to help people send personalized letters to their lawmakers.

With a U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) report last month showing outdoor recreation in the U.S. generating $1.1 trillion in economic output (2.2% of GDP) and 4.98 million jobs — the largest numbers ever recorded and a more than 18 percent increase from the year prior — these bills take important steps to expand and improve outdoor recreation opportunities, according to OA and its partners, a coalition of nonprofits representing different types of outdoor recreation.

The highlights include the Biking on Long Distance Trails Act (BOLT) to identify and create more long-distance bike trails, the Protecting America’s Rock Climbing Act (PARC) to safeguard Wilderness climbing, the Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation Act (SOAR) that will improve recreational permitting for outfitters and guides, and permanent direction for the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership and FICOR.

“Millions of Americans get outside each year, and the EXPLORE Act will improve management for climbing and mountain biking, enhance how agencies manage outdoor recreation, and invest in parks where they are needed most with the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership,” said Louis Geltman, VP of Policy and Government Relations at the Outdoor Alliance.

To learn more, please visit www.outdooralliance.org.

About Outdoor Alliance

Outdoor Alliance is the only organization in the U.S. that unites the voices of outdoor enthusiasts to conserve public lands. A nonprofit coalition comprised of 10 national advocacy organizations, Outdoor Alliance’s members include American Whitewater, American Canoe Association, Access Fund, International Mountain Bicycling Association, Winter Wildlands Alliance, the Mountaineers, the American Alpine Club, the Mazamas, the Colorado Mountain Club, and the Surfrider Foundation. By working with its member coalitions and helping mobilize the involvement of individuals to protect public lands and waters, OA helps ensure public lands are managed in a way that embraces the human-powered experience. Outdoor Alliance — conservation powered by outdoor recreation. Learn more at OutdoorAlliance.org.

 

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