The Mountaineers
Each week we bring you a personal story from one of our members. For our member profile this week we talked to...
Name Kathy Fox
Hometown Schwenksville, PA
Member Since 2012
Occupation Retired
Favorite Activities hiking, biking, stewardship, playing in the snow, exploring, backpacking
10 ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:
WHAT FIRST BROUGHT YOU TO THE MOUNTAINEERS?
To connect with people who were involved with what I enjoy doing.
WHY DO YOU LIKE GETTING OUTSIDE WITH US?
Because members are educated on how to be outdoors safely and do it respectfully on our precious resources.
As a member of the Olympia Conservation Committee, I would encourage everyone to participate in at least one conservation activity per year as a way of giving back to the incredible resources that we are gifted with and have the opportunity to enjoy.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOUNTAINEERS MEMORY?
One of my many favorite memories is being involved with the translocation of mountain goats from the Olympic Peninsula in August 2019. Ginger Sarver and I drove goats in a refrigerated truck from Hamma Hamma staging area to Alpenthal ski area parking lot. We camped under the stars, no tent, because the evening was epic. The next morning, a crew from various agencies arrived as well as a helicopter that transported each goat in it's individual crate up into the higher elevations of the Cascades. Ginger prepared an incredible ten minutes video of our adventure which I often share with others.
WHO/WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
Being outdoors is a constant inspiration for me. As soon as I step outside from beyond the walls, I have a sense of the wonder of being part of such a grand and beautiful Universe.
Also, I find that people who I'm on an adventure with always inspire me in one way, shape, or form. I believe it's because we are all outdoors for the same reason, to be enriched and enhanced by the tremendous energy that is transmitted by the Universe.
WHAT DOES ADVENTURE MEAN TO YOU?
Being present with nature without inhibitions that otherwise occupy my mind.
LIGHTNING ROUND
Sunrise or sunset? Sunrise
Smile or game face? Smile
What's your 11th Essential? A clear mind
What's your happy place? Any natural place beyond the walls
Post-adventure meal of choice? Anything vegan, preferably whole food and plant based
NOMINATE YOURSELF FOR MOUNTAINEER OF THE WEEK
Mountaineers come in all shapes and sizes, varying widely in age, outdoor experience, and length of time involved in The Mountaineers. Part of what makes our community so unique is the broad diversity of our membership, and we hope these weekly features highlight who we are and why our community plays an important part in feeling belonging in the outdoors. We are always seeking self-nominations for our Mountaineer of the Week, and we invite you to share your story. Trust us, we want to hear from you!
Want to nominate a friend? Email Skye Michel to make a recommendation.
