Published May 27, 2003 01:28PM
May 23, 2003 – Carbondale, Colo. CLIMBING Magazine is pleased to announce the hiring of John Viehman as the new Publisher. Mr. Viehman has extensive magazine publishing and media experience, most recently as the Publishing Director for Rodale’s Wilderness Travel Group, which, during his tenure included BACKPACKER, ADVENTURE TRAVEL and other outdoor magazines; Anyplace Wild and Trailside public television series; Backpacker.com and other web businesses; and Backpacker and Trailside books. Before joining Rodale in 1985, Mr. Viehman was Publisher and Editor of CANOE magazine, the predecessor of CANOE & KAYAK magazine, which, along with CLIMBING, is part of Primedia’s Action Sports Group of media properties. “As the magazine celebrates its 33rd birthday, it’s a real thrill to hold the reins of such a prestigious brand,” Mr. Viehman notes, “and it’s an honor to continue the legacy of climbing pioneer Michael Kennedy. He left me some big double boots to fill here. The dedication of the staff is impressive and I’m anxious to join such a high-energy, talented group of people. My feeling right now is that the sky literally is the limit here. Of course, I’m not overlooking the chance to do all this from the rarified air of the Rockies… tough duty, for sure.” Associate Publisher Julie Oldham believes Mr. Viehman will be a catalyst for growth. “John is a publishing expert with a thorough understanding of the outdoor industry. He is committed to reaching out to the climbing community and industry to better understand this niche market in order to determine their goals and challenges, and develop innovative ways to meet them. With his vast media experience in print, television, live events, online and ancillary products, John brings an unprecedented level of sophistication to our business.” Primedia’s Action Sports Group VP of Operations, Bob Mignogna, comments: “John has a track record of creating tremendous growth for his businesses by stimulating the entire marketplace, both consumers and advertisers, with products they devour. He has the background, integrity, management style and vision to elevate the climbing industry’s number one media brand to even greater levels of success. CLIMBING magazine and the industry it serves are sure to benefit from John’s vision, experience and executive talent.” Mr. Viehman will be relocating to Carbondale shortly after starting in early June and is looking forward to attending the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2003 with his staff.