TheHomeMag, a renowned name in home improvement advertising, has something to bark about. It’s latest endeavor ThePetMag, is a new publication catering to the pet-loving segment of its audience. With this enterprise, TheHomeMag not only acknowledges the evolving interests of its readers but continues to be their faithful companion.
For over two decades, TheHomeMag has been a trusted presence in nearly 10 million households across the United States, providing high-quality, dependable content focused on home improvement. With a readership marked by loyal engagement, it was a natural progression for TheHomeMag to address the interests of its pet-loving audience. Data indicates that over 60% of TheHomeMag’s readers are pet owners, with an average of 1.6 pets per household. This significant overlap presented a clear opportunity to cater to the needs and passions of its demographic.
“The launch of ThePetMag was a significant milestone,” says Tom Bohn, President & COO of TheHomeMag. “We understand that pets are truly the heart of the home. Expanding into the pet space allows us to reach a passionate community of pet lovers and provide valuable content”.

ThePetMag will make its debut as an oversized insert within TheHomeMag, reaching 100,000 of the most engaged homeowners in select U.S. markets. This leverages the strong brand connection that TheHomeMag has cultivated over the years. Following its initial launch, ThePetMag will evolve into a standalone publication, mailed directly to households with pets. The content will be comprehensive, featuring expert advice from pet industry professionals and highlighting brands that offer top-tier products and services. Topics will encompass various categories, including health and wellness, nutrition, playtime and training, and at-home pet care.
ThePetMag is further bolstered by the endorsement of the American Pet Products Association (APPA), a respected organization that promotes responsible pet care and supports the pet products industry. Founded in 1958, APPA’s endorsement adds a layer of credibility to ThePetMag, aligning it with the values of responsible and informed pet ownership.

​

TheHomeMag’s venture into the pet industry is not just about content; it is also about creating a community. It plans to provide a platform for pet owners to connect, share experiences, and discover new products and services that enhance their pets’ lives. This sense of community is something TheHomeMag has always fostered within the home improvement sector, and desires to bring that same spirit into the pet world.
ThePetMag’s launch coincides with the significant expansion of TheHomeMag. Now reaching homeowners in more than ten major U.S. markets, including Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Colorado, Columbus, Cleveland, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Raleigh, Richmond, Tucson, Southwest Florida, and Washington, D.C., the product rollout is notable.

​

Under the leadership of Tom Bohn, TheHomeMag has received significant accolades including Inc. Magazine’s “Best Workplaces,” and undertaking digital transformations for a “tech-enabled” company while maintaining its core values is important. The launch of Inbox Advantage and Marketplace (AskHomey.com), by TheHomeMag has brought a new level of accessibility and convenience for homeowners. This evolution into Advanced Home Improvement Media (AHIM) reflects the brand’s forward-thinking approach.
Integrating ThePetMag into this digital ecosystem aims to create a seamless experience, blending home improvement and pet care to reflect the holistic lifestyle of its readers, expanding its reach to more markets, and continually evolving its content.
For brands and businesses in the pet industry, ThePetMag offers a real tail-wagger: Unique sponsorship opportunities. Launch sponsors will benefit from category-exclusive advertising, ensuring their message reaches a highly targeted audience.
“ThePetMag offers sponsors an unparalleled chance to connect with an audience of pet owners while leveraging TheHomeMag’s 20 years of trust and reach. Our new publication provides category-exclusive sponsorships and prime ad placements, making it the perfect platform to engage with affluent homeowners who are passionate about their pets.” Megan Jordan, VP of Sales Enablement/Sales Development

In 2002, the tranquil town of Cape Coral, Florida, became the launchpad for an ambitious venture that would come to shape the home improvement landscape in America. South African natives Sean and Debbie Campbell embarked on a journey with a vision to create TheHomeMag, a publication that would bridge the gap between homeowners and top-tier home improvement professionals. The couple's unique background played a crucial role in the magazine's inception.

Debbie Campbell's journey from Zambia to Queenstown, and then to Cape Town, was fueled by her excel in the insurance industry. Fluent in both English and Afrikaans, her sales prowess complemented Sean's strategic mind. Their partnership was not just about creating a business but about building a legacy.

​Before they ventured into publishing, the Campbells spent four years sailing the Caribbean and Atlantic Oceans. This period of exploration not only honed their teamwork but also prepared them for their next big adventure. Settling in Cape Coral, they saw an opportunity to create a targeted advertising platform that used the postal system to reach homeowners—a novel idea at the time.
 

A New Era of Leadership

As TheHomeMag grew, it became clear that innovative guidance was needed to take the company to the next level. Enter Tom Bohn, President & COO, whose extensive experience in high-growth leadership across various industries brought fresh perspectives and strategic vision. Bohn saw immense promise in TheHomeMag and was eager to expand its reach and capabilities.

"When I was first recruited to TheHomeMag, I instantly saw the potential," Bohn recalls. "I knew the brand and what it stood for, but more importantly, I saw a pathway to exponential growth. Here is a home improvement media company in 69 markets with salespeople on the ground—no one else can say that.”

Under Bohn's leadership, TheHomeMag has undergone significant transformation, leveraging advanced technologies to enhance its offerings. "We are constantly looking to innovate for both home improvement businesses and homeowners," Bohn explains. "By leveraging AI and other advanced technologies, we aim to dominate the multimedia community, connecting homeowners with trusted local contractors and providing a seamless, interactive experience."

In just a year and a half, Bohn has spearheaded the acquisition of ten franchise markets, far surpassing the initial goal of one to two per year. This rapid expansion reflects the company's forward-thinking approach and Bohn's effective leadership.

Part of this transformation involved filling gaps in knowledge and expertise. Bohn brought in industry veterans like Matt Hickman to elevate current print products while focusing on digital innovations. "I needed someone to own and elevate the current products, and Matt lives and breathes print," says Bohn. This strategic hiring allowed TheHomeMag to maintain its stronghold in print while expanding into digital platforms.

​The company also recognized the potential within its existing talent pool. Underutilized staff members were given new opportunities, leading to significant progress. "Our Director of Marketing, once a utility player, is now running our marketing and PR, making strides we’ve never seen before," Bohn shares. This internal promotion strategy has infused new excitement and energy into the company.

The future of TheHomeMag is promising, with aggressive growth plans that aim to double its size over the next five years. Bohn is confident about this trajectory, believing the company is just beginning to tap into its prospects while attracting significant interest from potential investors, a rarity in modern publishing. "We are seeing double-digit growth in both top and bottom lines year after year," he notes. "Over a five-year arc, we will double our financial size. Our focus is to extend beyond being an incredible partner to home improvement professionals to dominating other areas."
 

This expansion includes developing an AI-driven national platform that homeowners and clients have come to love. The leading-edge concept of TheHomeMag's Marketplace is to connect homeowners with certified professionals, offering a seamless and reliable experience. "It's not just a directory; it’s a gateway to quality, reliability, and expertise," Bohn emphasizes.
 
With the invention of its Marketplace platform, TheHomeMag has set a new benchmark. Leveraging high-tech artificial intelligence, Marketplace allows homeowners to effortlessly visualize a myriad of design options that enhance coordination with builders and designers, resulting in precise cost estimates. As more homeowners opt to refine their existing homes, Marketplace stands out, providing an unparalleled tool that streamlines the renovation experience.

Future plans also involve diversifying into areas like pet living and lifestyle, recognizing the increasing integration of pets into modern homes. "Love where you live is not only about the brick and mortar but also about other features like your pets. Pet living and lifestyle will complement our trajectory," Bohn explains.

​As WORKHOUSE celebrates its 25th anniversary, we take a moment to honor and appreciate the remarkable individuals who have been part of our journey. Since our inception, we have become a beacon for creative communicators, carving out a niche as a public relations powerhouse. The agency has been recognized for its exceptional contributions across diverse communication sectors, demonstrating a consistent history of promotional prowess. To every team member who has contributed to our legacy—whether you were here at the beginning or joined us along the way—your creativity, dedication, and passion have been the bedrock of our success. You brought your unique sparks to our collective fire, helping us achieve extraordinary results for our clients and setting new standards in the industry. Your contributions have not only propelled WORKHOUSE to new heights but have also left an indelible mark on the industry. As we look to the future, we remain committed to fostering an environment where creativity thrives. Our success is a tapestry woven with the threads of your hard work and unwavering commitment. To our past and present, thank you for your contributions. Here's to celebrating shared achievements and to many more years of success and creativity.

TheHomeMag has launched its first national television campaign, marking a significant leap in its approach to connecting homeowners with trusted professionals. This series of eight commercials, produced by Pilot Moon Films and Infrared Creative, highlights TheHomeMag’s innovative platform, AskHomey.com, through a blend of humor and strategic messaging.
​
Directed by Joel Malizia and Dace Allison, with Joe Dorsey as producer and executive producer, the commercials star Scott Adams and Carrie Lauren as a couple navigating the common frustrations of home improvement referrals. The first spot, titled “We’re Listening,” depict the couple’s experience with a traditional directory service that indiscriminately shares their information, resulting in a deluge of unsolicited contacts. This scenario humorously highlights the pitfalls of conventional referral services. AskHomey.com intervenes, ensuring privacy and a direct connection to top-tier professionals.

The campaign continues with “Sending Leads to Just You,” where the chaotic experience of widely shared personal information is contrasted by AskHomey.com’s approach, which directs the homeowner’s details to a single professional at a time. This method offers a more personalized and focused experience, emphasizing TheHomeMag’s commitment to user privacy and control.
​
In a subsequent spot titled “Don’t Get Stalked,” the campaign humorously depicts the anxiety of being overwhelmed by numerous contractor responses. TheHomeMag’s solution, AskHomey.com, simplifies the process, providing a secure and streamlined way for homeowners to find top-rated professionals without the stress of unsolicited contacts.

​Joe Dorsey, the campaign’s producer, emphasized the importance of parody in the commercials. “We wanted humor to be central in these ads. TheHomeMag’s mascot, a giant house with arms, provided the perfect opportunity to inject fun while highlighting the real advantage of AskHomey.com—putting control back in the hands of homeowners,” he explained.

​TheHomeMag has been a trusted name in the home improvement industry for over two decades. Recently, it has become a tech-enabled company with the launch of Marketplace by TheHomeMag (AskHomey.com), a comprehensive platform designed to enhance user experience and expand market reach. This transformation includes features such as Home-y, an AI-powered assistant available 24/7, and a Certified Partner Program that rigorously screens professionals, backed by TheHomeMag’s $2,000 guarantee.

Tom Bohn, President & COO of TheHomeMag, explained the broader vision behind the campaign.  “We didn’t just want to join the digital age; we wanted to redefine it. Our digital transformation was about taking the qualities that made us successful in print — trust, quality, and community focus—and enhancing them with the capabilities of today’s technology.”

Television campaigns are a key component of TheHomeMag’s broader strategy which is to draw attention to its suite of offerings. Marketplace represents a significant investment in technology aimed at improving the customer experience. This platform provides homeowners with access to a wide range of professionals, complete with detailed profiles, photos, and videos of their completed projects. The AI-powered assistant is available 24/7 making it easier for homeowners to find the right service providers for their projects. This technology-driven approach is designed to address some of the most common pain points in the home improvement process, such as finding reliable contractors and managing multiple quotes.
By combining the strengths of its print legacy with digital tools, the use of television commercials are a next step testament to the company’s ability to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing environment. 
​
To see the TheHomeMag commercials, visit their YouTube channel here.

Commercial Credits: Campaign Production Companies: Pilot Moon Films & Infrared Creative, Directors: Joel Malizia & Dace Allison, Producer: Joe Dorsey, Executive Producer: Joe Dorsey (Infrared Creative), Contact Information: Joe Dorsey, Director of Photography: John DeMaio, Cast: Scott Adams (Husband), Carrie Lauren (Wife)

In an era where home improvement projects are becoming increasingly significant, TheHomeMag has teamed up with national research firm MRI-Simmons to launch their first annual home services survey. This report provides a comprehensive look at home spending trends, motivations, and the evolving priorities of homeowners. As high mortgage rates deter many from moving, the insights from this survey are timelier and more relevant than ever.

Staying Put and Enhancing Homes
The survey reveals that a significant 40% of homeowners have undertaken more home improvement projects due to rising interest rates, which have made moving or purchasing a new home less feasible. Tom Bohn, President and COO of TheHomeMag, emphasized this trend, stating, “What our survey showed is that 82% of homeowners have no intention to sell in the next 12 months, so they are overwhelmingly looking to stay put for now, and increase the value of their property through renovations and upgrades.”

​Financial Commitment to Home Projects
Homeowners are investing heavily in their homes. National surveys have found that those who undertook at least one project in 2023 spent an average of $9,500—a 12.5% increase from 2022. Younger homeowners, particularly those aged 27 to 42, spent nearly $700 more than the overall average, reflecting a growing trend of improving current homes rather than purchasing new ones. This financial commitment underscores the importance of maintaining and enhancing the livability of existing properties.

Popular Home Improvement Projects
Among the top home improvement projects completed over the past 12 months, landscaping and bathroom remodeling lead the list. Other popular projects include garage organization, closet systems, roofing, and converting rooms into home offices. Additionally, many homeowners invested in gutters, swimming pool maintenance, window replacements, and adding outdoor living spaces such as decks, porches, or patios. These projects highlight a desire to both enhance functionality and boost property value.

Prioritizing Quality Over Price
One of the key insights from the survey is the emphasis on quality. A substantial 85% of respondents prioritize quality over price when it comes to home improvements, indicating a long-term approach to enhancing their homes. Furthermore, 91% of homeowners are always on the lookout for new ways to improve their homes, with 45% planning to remodel within the next 12 months. This focus on quality is driving long-term value rather than quick fixes aimed at selling properties quickly.

​Community and Local Business Support
A surprising revelation from the survey is the strong preference for supporting local businesses. About 79% of homeowners prefer to purchase products from companies that advertise or sponsor events in their community. Bohn observed, “I think this is an indication that people are starting to once again prioritize community and want to invest holistically in where they live.” To facilitate this, TheHomeMag has launched Marketplace, a new platform that connects homeowners with certified home improvement professionals. Available at AskHomey.com, the platform also features an AI chatbot to inspire and visualize home improvement projects. Currently in 17 markets, a nationwide launch is planned for later this summer.

Engaging and Influential Content
Based on results, TheHomeMag appears to be an integral resource for homeowners, guiding their home improvement decisions. The survey reveals that 95% of readers engage with the print issues, with 82% reading at least three of the last four issues, and 83% having been readers for over a year. Moreover, 44% of readers discuss content from TheHomeMag with others, demonstrating its influence and reach.

Impact of Advertising
Advertising plays a crucial role in informing homeowners about products and services. The survey found that 93% of respondents believe advertising helps keep them up to date with necessary products and services. Additionally, 85% of homeowners make purchases based on quality, not price, and 79% prefer to buy from companies that engage with their community. This high level of engagement underscores the effectiveness of TheHomeMag’s advertising in reaching its target audience.

Philadelphia, PA – On Friday, 21 June 21, 2024 at 3PM EST, alumni, students, and supporters of the University of the Arts (UARTS) will gather at Hamilton Hall steps for a rally demanding immediate action. The rally aims to secure a freeze on UARTS' assets and initiate a formal investigation into the university's recent closure. 
​
Participants will call upon the Pennsylvania Attorney General to launch an official investigation to uncover the truth behind these actions and to ensure accountability. The decision to hold the rally follows widespread concern and outrage within the UARTS community regarding the abrupt closure and the handling of its assets.

The rally will commence with a march from Hamilton Hall to City Hall, where attendees will raise their voices for justice and demand transparency from UARTS administration. The event will feature performances by musicians, artists, and dancers, showcasing the creativity and passion that define the UARTS community.

"We are standing together to demand transparency and accountability from UARTS," said Workhouse, CEO, Adam Nelson, a University of the Arts alumnus (Theatre, 91’) whose agency is providing pro bono Public Relations support. "Freezing UARTS' assets is crucial to safeguarding the interests of students, faculty, and the broader community affected by this closure."

All members of the UARTS community, supporters of the arts, and concerned citizens are encouraged to attend, spread the word, and rally their friends. This event serves as a pivotal moment to demonstrate the power and unity of the UARTS community in the face of adversity.

Event Details:

• Date: Friday, June 21, 2024
• Time: 3:00 PM
• Location: Hamilton Hall steps, 320 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA (Broad + Pine Streets)

About UARTS: The University of the Arts (UARTS) is a leading institution dedicated to the education and advancement of artists, musicians, and performers. With a rich history of fostering creativity and innovation, UARTS plays a vital role in shaping the future of the arts community.

For more information, please contact WORKHOUSE via email [email protected] // Office # +1 212. 645. 8006 // Mobile # +1 917.930.5802

"Fighting Focal Dystonia: Workhouse x João Carlos Martins Majestic Musical Comeback” was conceived & produced by agency Founder & CEO Adam Nelson

The 30th Annual Communicator Awards and the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts (AIVA) have recognized Workhouse with the Award of Excellence in Social Impact for their campaign "Fighting Focal Dystonia: Workhouse x João Carlos Martins Majestic Musical Comeback” conceived and produced by agency Founder & CEO Adam Nelson.

In a world where music mesmerizes and melodies mend, the legendary Brazilian pianist and conductor, João Carlos Martins, embarked on a magnificent musical odyssey. Our Workhouse campaign celebrated his remarkable journey, from the grandeur of Carnegie Hall to the grit of life's trials, and his triumphant return to the spotlight. It all began with a viral video that resonated with millions, evolving into a worldwide symphony of resilience, harmony, and inspiration. Click here on the Winner’s Gallery to view the honorees

“Workhouse and Adam Nelson has been selected as a winner in the 30th annual Communicator Awards for my concert at Carnegie Hall as a conductor and pianist. The focus was my flight with focal dystonia for musicians, a rare disease. His work on this project was really fantastic and I tried to deliver emotion to the audience during my performance. Thank you very much again for this award.” - Maestro João Carlos Martins

Synopsis: Sixty years after his Carnegie Hall debut, João Carlos Martins, celebrated as one of the foremost interpreters of Bach in the 20th century, embarked on an astonishing encore performance. This concert commemorated the anniversary of his 1962 Carnegie Hall debut, under the sponsorship of none other than Eleanor Roosevelt. The New York Times lauded him as "one of the most important pianists in the world," and his career had been an extraordinary crescendo until a series of tragic accidents and neurological challenges threatened to silence his music forever.

Despite these monumental setbacks, João Carlos Martins never relinquished his passion for music. He staged comebacks, underwent numerous surgeries, and ultimately found a new calling in conducting. He established the Bachiana Chamber Orchestra and the Bachiana Youth Orchestra, providing a lifeline for budding musicians from underserved backgrounds. His commitment to democratizing classical music earned him accolades, including the highest Brazilian government award for a classical artist.

The turning point in his odyssey arrived with the creation of bionic extender gloves, a marvel designed by the ingenious industrial designer Ubiratan Bizarro Costa. These gloves granted João Carlos Martins the ability to play the piano once more, a moment of heartwarming and emotional resonance captured in a viral video that touched hearts across the globe.

To foster awareness about focal dystonia for musicians, Workhouse produced a press conference in collaboration with the World Health Organization. Eminent scientists and experts illuminated the challenges faced by musicians and the importance of their mental well-being.

​Workhouse produced a film screening of "João o Maestro," a biographical feature film directed by Mauro Lima, transporting audiences deeper into the maestro's life. A Q&A session with João Carlos Martins himself offered a glimpse into his odyssey and his enduring love affair with music.

A historic, heart-tugging commercial produced by Workhouse celebrated João Carlos Martins' 60th Anniversary return to Carnegie Hall, capturing the essence of his remarkable narrative. It resonated with audiences as it echoed in the digital expanse of Times Square.

The Workhouse campaign secured a constellation of feature stories, joining the chorus in heralding João Carlos Martins' triumphant return to Carnegie Hall.

João Carlos Martins' Carnegie Hall comeback featured a program that paid homage to his profound love for Bach and his Brazilian heritage. NOVUS NY joined him for a concert that encompassed Bach's Brandenburg Concertos, Heitor Villa-Lobos' Bachianas Brasileiras, and a world premiere by Brazilian composer André Mehmari.

The Workhouse campaign reverberates with the remarkable resonance of João Carlos Martins' resilience and artistry, celebrating a true titan in the tapestry of classical music. His odyssey shines as a beacon of hope and inspiration, a harmonious reminder that music can heal, uplift, and unite people, even amidst life's most challenging movements.

With over 3,000 entries received from across the US and around the world, the Communicator Awards is the largest and most competitive awards program honoring creative excellence for communications professionals. The competition celebrated its 30th anniversary this year with a pledge to honor timeless communication. Winners who received the competition’s highest honor, the Award of Excellence, include Disney, The White House Historical Association, Mastercard, George P. Johnson Experience Marketing, AARP, Veritas, IBM, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Hearts & Science, PBS, Havas, PepsiCo and many others. Please visit the Communicator Awards Winners Gallery to view all the winners this season. Firms including: GE Digital, Spotify, Condè Nast, Disney, Accenture Song, Superfly, Fast Company, Digitas, and many others. See aiva.org for more information.

About WORKHOUSE
Workhouse is one of the country’s leading public relations and integrated creative agencies. Celebrating 25 years of service this year, the agency provides forward-thinking public relations, social media, brand promotion, creative consulting and, modern-day marketing. Clients have included The Rolling Stones, The Charlie Chaplin Estate, Hugh Jackman, Francis Ford Coppola, Lou Reed, Matthew Modine, David LaChapelle, The Anthony Quinn Estate, CBGB, Max’s Kansas City, Interview Magazine, Galleries Lafayette, Porsche, Ford Motor Company, UnitedMasters, Virgin, Jazz at Lincoln Center, International Emmy Awards, Assouline Editions, Rizzoli International Publications, Moose Knuckles, TheHomeMag, Tony Shafrazi Gallery, Chase Contemporary, Versace, and Avroko. Workhouse offers untraditional services across a broad spectrum of entertainment, culture, fashion, and lifestyle spheres. Visit http://www.workhousepr.com

Read:
Los Angeles Magazine: "How Adam Nelson Became the Class Clown of Creative Communications” (July, 2023)
https://lamag.com/contributor-content/how-adam-nelson-became-the-class-clown-of-creative-communications

Interested media contact Kat Carlson, WORKHOUSE, +1 212-645-8006 // [email protected]

The Hermes Creative Awards, globally recognized for excellence in marketing and communications, has honored Adam Nelson, Founder & CEO of Workhouse, with the prestigious 2024 Career Achievement Award. This esteemed accolade acknowledges Workhouse's 25-year anniversary and his indelible impact on the marketing and communications industry. Nelson dedicated the award to his childhood hero, Evel Knievel, whose audacious spirit has been a significant influence on his professional approach.

"In the turbulent arena of human bravado, where men court danger with the fervor of poets, there strode Evel Knievel, a maverick draped in leather and legend. With each leap, he unleashed a tempest of rebellion that echoed across the vast expanse of the American dream," said Nelson. "Knievel enraptured us with adrenaline and awe, drawing a global mass with each a tantalizing test. His boldness resonated with me at a young age, shaping my understanding of risk and reward in business. Each jump, a thunderous proclamation of defiance, each crash a tumultuous crescendo of chaos and catharsis. From the forgotten byways of Middle America to the glittering stages of the Strip, his flair for the dramatic and ability to capture the imagination of millions is something I've aspired to emulate in the mad marketing campaigns Workhouse creates,” Nelson expressed.

The Hermes Creative Awards, governed by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (AMCP), is an international competition recognizing outstanding work in the industry. The awards celebrate the creative prowess of professionals involved in the concept, writing, and design of traditional and emerging media. This year, over 6,500 entries were judged, representing numerous countries and demonstrating the global reach and influence of the awards. A list of Platinum and Gold Winners can be found on the Hermes Creative Awards website at www.hermesawards.com.
​

Opinion Editorial by Chris Johns

There is a place I go when I am overwhelmed by worry. I often go solo, but today, on the eve of winter, I follow the howl of coyotes and climb the hill behind our home with my grandson, Freeman, bundled in a backpack for kids. We enter the tawny hills of Missoula, Montana’s Northern Conservation Lands. The parched landscape looks like an abstract watercolor painting viewed through orange gauze. Wildfire smoke is rolling in and casts an eerie glow that obscures Stuart Peak and the Rattlesnake Wilderness Area before us. The air smells like a wet-wood campfire.

A red-tailed hawk, its broad, rounded wings extended in benediction, glides to our left. Above, a rumbling air tanker carries 3,000 gallons of fire retardant. It passes to the right of us – headed east to a blaze in the Blackfoot River Valley. A Firehawk helicopter joins the chorus and cruises directly above us. Freeman leans back and waves at the aircraft.

He waves. I worry. I worry about the health of the planet that gives us so much. I worry about rampant misinformation and attacks on well-intentioned, well-informed authorities. I worry about political and cultural polarization.
​

In classrooms at the University on Montana and Oregon State University, I share stories seldom told from places such as Rattlesnake Creek and the Blackfoot River. I encourage aspiring journalists to search for relevant untold stories and tell them with depth, accuracy and empathy. I emphasize the importance of eschewing shallow narratives that perpetuate partisan divides and unduly amplify extreme ideology. I share with them the richness that comes from being curious and open to diverse points of view.

My students are listening. One is writing a story about two young international students: Russian and Ukrainian. The women choose to rise above politics and war and be roommates and friends at Oregon State. Another student is writing about the intricate relationship between moss and salmon in the Pacific Northwest. Fall semester, at the University of Montana, I team-taught a class that produced a poignant 56-page magazine on Montana’s mental health crisis.
​