Column: The outdoors is there for everyone

MAINE SUNDAY TELEGRAM • April 18, 2021

I never used to think of myself as an “outdoorsy” person. But two things have changed my mind. The first is a drag queen on Instagram known as Pattie Gonia (a play on “Patagonia,” the outdoor retailer and a part of South America known for its natural beauty). Her aims are twofold: the first, to make environmentalism and appreciation of Mother Nature (aka, “Mother Natch”) glamorous and gay, and second, to make “the outdoors” a friendly, welcoming place for all. The second thing to change my mind is, of course, my beloved dog Janey. I have come to the conclusion that I am happiest when I am out in the field with Janey. ~ Victoria Hugo-Vidal