Neds Job of the Week | Your Very Next Step

Your Very Next Step newsletter for July 2010

www.yourverynextstep.com

“I live in that solitude which is painful in youth, but delicious in the years of maturity.”

– Albert Einstein

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.”

– Lao Tzu

“Your Very Next Step” newsletter, published by Ned Lundquist, is a cooperative community, and everyone is invited, no…encouraged, no…urged to participate.

Subscribe for free. Send a blank email to:

yourverynextstep-subscribe@topica.com.

Send us your comments, questions, and contributions to lundquist989@cs.com.

You are now among 649 subscribers.

Contact Ned at lundquist989@cs.com.

*** In this issue:

*** Travel News

*** YVNS Sport Ned Has Never Heard Of: Rock Paper Scissors World Championships

*** Travel, Outdoor and Adventure Jobs and Volunteer Opportunities

1.) Assistant Child Ski Center Director, Bee Ferrato Child Ski Center, Diamond Peak Ski Resort, Incline Village, Nevada

2.) Trail Crew Leader, Baxter State Park, Millinocket, Maine

3.) Associate Director, Great Basin Institute, Reno, NV

4.) President and Chief Executive Officer, Outward Bound USA, The Bridgespan Group, Golden, Colorado

5.) Development Director, U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association, Park City, Utah

6.) Head Climbing Instructor, Peak Experiences, Inc., Midlothian, VA

…and much more…and it’s all FREE!!!

*** Do you have a travel adventure to share?

Send me your stories and I’ll post in the “Your Very Next Step” and on the YVNS website (http://www.yourverynextstep.com/).

*** Here’s the YVNS Travel News for July:

*** WSJ compares global alliances:

Alliances battle to keep business travelers loyal

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704545004575353221719220624.html?KEYWORDS=airlines

*** Best Time to Book Flights With Mileage Points?

Read more: http://www.frommers.com/community/forum.cfm/tips-tools-deals/air-travel/optimum-time-book-airline-seats-using-frequent-flyer-points#ixzz0tB5CBfWI

*** Exploring Ecotourism:

Stones in the Road by Ron Mader …identifies 8 factors and solutions that have an impact of the level of success of ecotourism initiatives. For example, the author suggests that agencies employ better online and offline communication strategies…

http://www.comminit.com/en/node/209710/306

*** Do you want the good news or the bad news?

New Tarmac Rules Cause Spike in Terminal Delays, Flight Cancellations

http://www.jaunted.com/story/2010/7/15/15524/4214/travel/New+Tarmac+Rules+Cause+Spike+in+Terminal+Delays%2C+Flight+Cancellations

*** 10 Death Defying Rooftop Hotel Pools

http://www.hotelchatter.com/story/2010/6/27/125953/845/hotels/10_Death_Defying_Rooftop_Hotel_Pools

*** Shall We Gather 'Round the Campfire'?:

Zimbabwe's Approach to Conserving Indigenous Wildlife by Carolyn Fischer, Edwin Muchapondwa, and Thomas Sterner …from 2005, this article examines a nationwide programme in Zimbabwe, which directs shares of the profits from hunting and benign tourism toward the local community. Research shows that CAMPFIRE (Communal Areas Management Programme for Indigenous Resources) involved local people not only in benefit sharing but also in decisionmaking…

http://www.comminit.com/en/node/316712/306

*** 20 Reasons to Hate the Airlines

A brief history of the industry's 30-year campaign to nickel-and-dime us nearly to death

http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages/completelist/0,29569,2002620,00.html

*** Jet Lag?

Fly Safe, Fly Smart: How to Beat Jet Lag

Read more: http://www.frommers.com/articles/6887.html#ixzz0tw1Sevkp

How to Avoid Jet Lag – General Travel Tips

http://www.asiatraveltips.com/HowtoAvoidJetLag.shtml

Beating Jet Lag

Make the Most of Your Travels

http://www.gorp.com/weekend-guide/travel-ta-beating-jet-lag-sidwcmdev_115471.html

*** BA, American, Iberia Alliance Gets US Nod

The Journal of Commerce Online

DOT gives final approval for trans-Atlantic cargo, passenger alliance

http://www.joc.com/air-expedited/ba-american-iberia-alliance-gets-us-nod

*** From Dennis Dean:

Ned,

The pinnacle of Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) road racing is there national championship Runoffs, which takes place at Road America, Elkhart Lake, WI in late September. Lots of info here http://www.scca.com/event.aspx?hub=1&event=15558 . It's a marvelous event that I've worked many times. Scheduled to be one of the Assistant Chief Stewards there this year.

The other great SCCA event is their Solo II Nationals, which is an autocross “parking lot” type event. I think it's still billed as the largest amateur motorsports event in the world. On the order of 1200 competitors. See more at http://scca.com/event.aspx?hub=3&event=15171 also in Sept. Some people manage to do both events!

Cheers,

Dennis

*** Here’s what it looks like down at the end of the road and beyond the gate:

Ned –

For a two-minute look at what life is like at the end of the road, check out this video (starring yours truly):

http://www.youtube.com/user/barefootmotors#p/u/3/YJnGTEv6CQI

Barefoot Motors is located in Ashland and produces electric work vehicles. I support their efforts by testing the equipment….and starring in promotional videos.

Enjoy. Walk in Peace – Jack

*** “WildOhio Cookbook”

Wild Game Gourmet Recipes

http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/Home/Wildlife_Cookbooklandingpage/tabid/6470/Default.aspx

*** Less than 10% of Fliers are Logging Onto Wi-Fi in the Air

(From Bernie Wagenblast’s TCN)

http://www.usatoday.com/travel/flights/2010-07-06-airlinewifi06_ST_N.htm

*** Are we on the rebound:

Virtually all major U.S. airlines are posting profits.

Announcing $233 million in net income, Continental Airlines on Thursday (July 22) joined in the chorus of second-quarter profits reported by all legacy carriers but American Airlines. Including American's $10.7 million net loss, the legacy airlines collectively pulled in nearly $1.25 billion in profits for the quarter—the most profitable in years.

http://www.businesstravelnews.com/Business-Travel/Airline-News/Articles/Continental-Cautiously-Joins-In-Quarterly-Profit-Song/

*** Peanuts Will Not Be Banned from Airplanes After All

Earlier this month, the US Department of Transportation announced that they were planning on possibly banning all US airlines from distributing the customary free in-flight peanut snack to passengers. Why? Because every so often, a passenger comes along who is severely allergic to nuts and thus creates problems for the entire flight, medical and otherwise.

Do you know someone with a severe allergy like peanuts who can have a potential fatal reaction if exposed to airborne peanut dust?

If you did, you might have an opinion about this issue.

http://www.jaunted.com/story/2010/6/24/18432/8655/travel/Peanuts+Will+Not+Be+Banned+from+Airplanes+After+All

*** The real deal?

Sabre Preps 'Total Pricing' To Include Fees In Airfare Shopping

http://www.businesstravelnews.com/Business-Travel/Airline-News/Articles/Sabre-Preps–Total-Pricing–To-Include-Fees-In-Airfare-Shopping/

*** The July YVNS sport Ned has never heard of:

Okay, I’ve heard of this game, but never thought of it as a sport.

Rock Paper Scissors World Championships

Rock Paper Scissors is a playground game used to break stalemates and determine teams. This game, which is based mostly on luck, is not just for school kids, and now even has a world championships. The 2005 RPS World Championships was again held in Toronto Canada, and involved 495 competitors from 27 U.S. States, Norway, Northern Ireland, Cayman Islands, Australia, New Zealand, the UK and Canada. The winner received $7,000 canadian dollars, second place received $1,500 and third $500.

Rules

The players count together to 3 counts, most commonly either using the name of the game (e.g. Rock! Paper! Scissors! or Ro! Sham! Bo!) or simply numbers. At the end of the third count, the players simultaneously change their fists into any of three “objects”, which they then “throw” by extending it towards their opponent. The three objects are 'paper', 'scissors' and 'rock'. The objective is to defeat the opponent by selecting a weapon which defeats their choice under the following rules:

•Rock (a clenched fist): wins against Scissors (break them), loses to Paper (gets wrapped up) and stalemates against itself

•Paper (all fingers extended, palm facing downwards, upwards, or sideways) wins against Rock (wraps it), loses to Scissors (gets cut) and stalemates against itself

•Scissors (forefinger and middle finger extended and separated into a “V” shape) wins against Paper (cuts it), loses to Rock (gets smashed) and stalemates against itself.

In International competition, the weapon is thrown on the fourth count (“1 … 2 … 3 … THROW”). This is called “International Style.” In “American Style,” the throw comes on the third count (“1 … 2 … THROW”). Typically, the game is played in a “best 2 out of 3” match.

http://www.worldrps.com/

*** Trail Volunteer opportunities:

*** Bear Creek Lake State Park Adopt-A-Trail

How would you like to help park guests enjoy the great outdoors by adopting one of our trails. We have several trails varying in length from a quarter mile to almost 2 miles. Help us maintain the trail by keeping it pruned, graded, and free of litter.

Bear Creek Lake State Park

22 Bear Creek Lake Road

Cumberland, VA

On site phone: (804) 492-4410

Contact Info: Laura Moss

(804) 492-4410

laura.moss@dcr.virginia.gov

https://ec.volunteernow.com/recruiter/index.php?class=OppSearch&recruiterID=1098

*** The Ice Age Trail:

The Ice Age Trail runs through 30 counties in Wisconsin and is built and maintained by 21 local volunteer chapters.

More than 12,000 years ago, an immense flow of glacial ice sculpted a landscape of remarkable beauty across Wisconsin. As the colossal glacier retreated, it left behind a variety of unique landscape features. These Ice Age remnants are now considered among the world's finest examples of how continental glaciation sculpts our planet.

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a thousand-mile footpath — entirely within Wisconsin — that highlights these Ice Age landscape features while providing access to some of the state's most beautiful natural areas.

The Ice Age Trail Alliance (formerly Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation) is a volunteer- and member-based nonprofit organization whose mission is to create, support and protect a thousand-mile footpath tracing Ice Age formations across Wisconsin — the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. Ice Age Trail Alliance staff and volunteers work cooperatively with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, National Park Service, local governments, businesses and private landowners to shape the Ice Age Trail into one of the premier hiking trails in the United States. Your support as a new member, volunteer or sponsor is always very welcome.

Each year, hundreds of volunteers donate tens of thousands of hours toward making the Ice Age Trail a premier hiking trail. Volunteers are the heart, soul, hands and backbone of the Ice Age Trail Alliance. Thanks to their enormous efforts, over 600 blazed Trail miles exist so far. But a great deal of work remains before the Ice Age Trail is complete.

Ice Age Trail volunteers build trail, bridges and boardwalks, restore and manage prairies and savannas, coordinate fundraisers, lead hikes and field trips, hold monthly meetings, handle local community relations, monitor easements, remove invasive exotic plants, create and post signs and perform a host of other important duties along the Trail.

If you're ready to help out, there are two primary avenues for getting involved: local chapter events and statewide Mobile Skills Crew projects.

Chapter Events

Just about every weekend of the year, you'll find Ice Age Trail Alliance volunteers out working to build and maintain the Ice Age Trail. Often, these volunteers are doing work as part of a project organized by one of the 21 Ice Age Trail Alliance volunteer chapters throughout the state. To find out how to get involved with your local chapter, visit our chapter pages.

Mobile Skills Crew Projects

Another way to get involved is to attend one of our Mobile Skills Crew (MSC) events. MSC events offer a great opportunity to give back to the outdoors while spending quality time in it. Volunteers at MSC events work hard, learn standardized trail building, develop lasting friendships with each other and, perhaps most importantly, have fun.

Each year, MSC leads six or more trail-building events at Ice Age Trail locations throughout Wisconsin. The program’s vision is to build a statewide cadre of volunteers who are trained in advanced crew leadership and trail construction techniques. MSC-trained volunteers, in turn, apply their knowledge and experience to local trail-building projects. This process allows us to continuously refine the Ice Age Trail into one of the premier hiking trails in the United States.

Previous trail construction background is not necessary to participate. And you are welcome to lend a hand for whatever time period your schedule permits, without having to commit to the entire multi-day project. We need in many other areas too, including food preparation, community outreach, publicity, administration and entertainment.

MSC events start on a Thursday morning and conclude the following Sunday at noon. Meals are provided, along with a place to pitch your tent. Bring leather work gloves, water bottles, hiking/work boots and appropriate clothing for the weather. Advance registration is highly encouraged to help plan food and crew needs.

The MSC season typically starts in May and winds down in October. Check out our online calendar for info on upcoming MSC events, or view a printable version of our 2010 slate of projects.

Below are some of the documents associated with Trail project planning, design and construction that illustrate our procedures and commitment to excellence.

Sound like fun? You betcha! Our volunteers work hard, but events are designed to be safe and enjoyable. Many long-term friendships, even marriages, have begun on the Ice Age Trail.

For current volunteer opportunities, visit our online calendar, contact your local chapter or learn about our Mobile Skills Crew trail-building initiative.

For Your Information… For the most recent National Park Service “volunteer year” (10/01/08-09/30/09), 2,281 different volunteers dedicated 58,225.3 hours of their time to the Ice Age Trail. At the $20.25 Independent Sector rate for a volunteer hour for that period, that's a contribution worth more than $1,179,000!

http://www.iceagetrail.org/becomevolunteer.htm

*** Join the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries Team!

•Participate in citizen science activities such as: Habitat At Home, WildlifeMapping, Frog and Toad Call Survey, Breeding Bird Survey, Christmas Bird Count, 4th of July Butterfly Count, and others.

•Become involved in your local community through civic, conservation, and sportsmen's organizations.

•”BE WILD” — “Grow Wild, Live Wild, and Vote Wild” (plant native plants, do your part to conserve natural resources in your life, and vote for sound conservation of our natural resources)

http://bewildvirginia.org/help/

*** Travel/Adventure/Outdoors employment opportunities:

1.) Assistant Child Ski Center Director, Bee Ferrato Child Ski Center, Diamond Peak Ski Resort, Incline Village, Nevada

Located on the beautiful north shore of Lake Tahoe & known for its family friendly environment, uncrowded slopes & stunning views of the Lake. The Bee Ferrato Child Ski Center provides children ages 3 – 7 private & small group ski lessons.

Now hiring dedicated & self-motivated person to assist with planning, directing & coordinating day-to-day operations; including instructor training/scheduling; teaching lessons & generating reports. Season approximately November thru April.

Requires Associates Degree (AA); three years related ski industry experience involving children’s program development/implementation, instructor training & one year supervision; or equivalent. Very good guest service, organizational, communication & training skills. Possess valid Driver’s License; certification as PSIA-W Level II Alpine or equivalent.

Compensation based on experience & certification. Plus free ski/snowboard pass, 50% food & beverage discount, free recreation center membership & ski shop discounts.

Submit District application immediately. On-line version at http://www.yourtahoeplace.com/.

Phone: (775)-832-1130.

2.) Trail Crew Leader, Baxter State Park, Millinocket, Maine

Scope of Work

This position involves skilled work building and maintaining trails in Baxter State Park. This work also involves repairing resource damage and protecting soils and plants from heavy hiker traffic. An employee in this class is responsible for the training and supervision of employees and volunteers (usually six to eight persons) engaged in these activities.

Typical Duties

Trains and supervises crew members in safe and proper use of chainsaws, brush saws, wood and rock drills.

Trains and supervises crew members in the construction of rock waterbars, steps, retaining walls, and rip-rap.

Trains and supervises crew members in the building of bridges over major streams and bog bridges.

Mark trails with paint blazes, rock cairns or signs.

Trains and supervises workers in the safe and proper use of manual and engine powered winches along with rigging to move rocks and logs to building sites.

Orients new volunteers to safe and proper work methods.

Responds to requests for information from hikers.

May also assist in search and rescue operations.

Assists in fire suppression.

Required Knowledge and Abilities

Ability to perform the manual labor required of trail work.

Knowledge of trail maintenance techniques.

Experience in building rock structures.

Ability to hike for long distances, often on steep trails with a heavy pack.

Ability to cope with the hardships of living in the backcountry (for up to a week) and in remote areas for the season.

Ability to operate a chainsaw (training required).

Knowledge of hiking, camping and working in the backcountry.

Knowledge of Baxter Park trails system (can be learned on job).

Ability to teach hiking, camping and work skills to crew members.

Ability and willingness to communicate effectively with other members of the trail crew.

Ability to supervise and coordinate a crew of workers on trail projects throughout Baxter State Park.

Possession of valid driver's license.

Knowledge of first aid procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma

Preferred Qualifications

Two years trail work experience and one year in a leadership role.

Housing Information

Housing consisting of a primitive log cabin which is provided at no cost to the employee, which will be shared with other employees, staff and occasional volunteers, and which may or may not be at the actual work site. The employee furnishes his/her own food and propane. (Propane available through the Park.)

Get an Application (PDF- requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)

Supplemental Questionnaire

Trail Crew Leader Questionnaire – required with Application

The State of Maine does not discriminate against individuals with disabilities in the provision of services, programs, activities, or in employment. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), any qualified individual with a disability is eligible to participate in or benefit from any service, program or activity provided by the State, or any of its departments or divisions. Likewise, the ADA requires equal employment opportunities for qualified individuals with disabilities.

JOB CODE: 9436

PAY RANGE:14

SALARY: Hourly: $12.15/ Bi-weekly: $972.00 (Effective July 1, 2009)

Value of 100% State-Paid Health and Dental Insurance: $356.62 bi-weekly.

Value of 95% State-Paid Health and Dental Insurance: $339.45 bi-weekly (Effective July 1, 2010)

Value of State's Share of Employee's Retirement: 19.96% of base pay.

Minorities encouraged to apply. Baxter State Park is an equal opportunity employer.

Send your application to:

Baxter State Park

Human Resources

64 Balsam Drive

Millinocket, ME 04462

(207)723-9616

http://www.baxterstateparkauthority.com/miscPages/jobsSeasonal.html#TCL

3.) Associate Director, Great Basin Institute, Reno, NV

http://www.execsearches.com/non-profit-jobs/jobDetail.asp?job_id=20537

4.) President and Chief Executive Officer, Outward Bound USA, The Bridgespan Group, Golden, Colorado

http://www.execsearches.com/non-profit-jobs/jobDetail.asp?job_id=20596

5.) Development Director, U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association, Park City, Utah

http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/jobs/job_item.jhtml?id=301400051

*** From Mark Sofman:

6.) Head Climbing Instructor, Peak Experiences, Inc., Midlothian, VA

http://careers.outdoorindustry.org/jobs/3430507/head-climbing-instructor

BTW, for YVNS, you might want to point folks to the career center on the Outdoor Industry Association's site, http://www.outdoorindustry.org/careercenter.html

*** Your Very Next Step is a service of the Job of the Week Network LLC

Edward Lundquist, ABC –

Editor and Publisher

Your Very Next Step

7813 Richfield Road

Springfield, VA 22153

Home office phone: (703) 455-7661

lundquist989@cs.com

www.nedsjotw.com

Subscribe for free. Send a blank email to:

yourverynextstep-subscribe@topica.com.

Your Very Next Step newsletter for June 2010

Neds Job of the Week 06/12/2010

[0] comments

Your Very Next Step newsletter for June 2010

“How old would you be if you didn't know how old you are?”
– Satchel Paige

The next adventure begins with your very next step.

“Your Very Next Step” newsletter, published by Ned Lundquist, is a cooperative community, and everyone is invited, no…encouraged, no…urged to participate.

Subscribe for free. Send a blank email to:

yourverynextstep-subscribe@topica.com.

Send us your comments, questions, and contributions to lundquist989@cs.com.

You are now among 646 subscribers.

Contact Ned at lundquist989@cs.com.

*** In this issue:

*** Travel News

*** Blue Ridge Parkway 75th Anniversary

*** Learn to Paddle

*** Trail volunteer opportunities: Sultan River (WA) Access Trail Work Party

*** Gulf Coast Surveillance Teams – Volunteer Opportunities

*** YVNS Sport Ned Has Never Heard Of: Ottery St. Mary Tar Barrels

*** Travel, Outdoor and Adventure Jobs and Volunteer Opportunities

1.) Coordinator, Administrative: Conservation International, Global Marine Division, Arlington, Virginia

2.) White Water rafting trip guide, Orange Torpedo Trips (throughout the West), Merlin, OR

3.) Job Opportunities at Backpacking Light

4.) Activity Counselor, Aspen Camp of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Aspen, Colorado

5.) Outdoor School Instructor, REI, Various locations

6.) RTL ASSOC – ARCHERY, Cabela's, Hammond, IN

7.) RTL ASSOC – HUNTING, Part-Time, Cabela's, Triadelphia, West Virginia

8.) RTL ASSOC – FISHING, Part-Time, Cabela's, Billings, Montana

9.) RTL ASSOC – MARINE, Cabela's, Rogers, Minnesota

10.) INTERNET GRAPHIC DESIGNER I, Cabela's, Sidney, NE

11.) Fly Casting Instructor, L. L. Bean, Victor, NY

12.) Fly Fishing Guide, Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, Farmington, PA

13.) Executive Director. Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation, Hungry Horse, Montana

14.) ARCHEOLOGIST, Tourism and State Development Rapid City, SD

15.) Coastal Louisiana Restoration Campaign Manager, National Wildlife Federation (NWF), Washington, D.C

…and much more…and it’s all FREE!!!

*** Do you have a travel adventure to share?

Send me your stories and I’ll post in the “Your Very Next Step” and on the YVNS website (http://www.yourverynextstep.com/).

*** There were massive air travel delays over the holidays, from weather to airport lockdowns. Did you experience this? Can you share your story with YVNS? Contact Ned at lundquist989@cs.com.

*** Here’s the YVNS Travel News for June:

*** Air France's 14-Day Reservation Hold Unbundles Ticket Timing

http://www.btnonline.com/businesstravelnews/headlines/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1004096313

*** Is it worth it to pay more and sit up front?

Share your thoughts about first and business class with Ned at lundquist989@cs.com.

*** Flying with pets?

Here's some advice:

http://www.frommers.com/articles/6825.html

How about you? Any interesting pet-travel tales? Send to YVNS via lundquist989@cs.com.

*** US Airways: Merger Probability Is High

http://www.thestreet.com/story/10771279/1/us-airways-merger-probability-is-high.html?cm_ven=GOOGLEFI

*** Perfect for traveling light:

Now introducing the perfect pair of cufflinks for work. 2GB USB Flash Drive Cufflinks (2 GB each, total 4 GB) are not only engravable, but feature functional USB drives making it possible for you to keep all of your must-have presentations and important documents with you wherever you go. Never be without functional fashion again.

http://www.cufflinks.com/silver-2gb-usb-flash-drive-cufflinks.html

*** The all-things-Vegas booking site is now offering rebates for your checked baggage fees, at a rate of $25 per bag, when you book any air and hotel package from now through June 21

http://www.vegaschatter.com/story/2010/6/8/201326/2082/vegas-travel/Go_Ahead_Pack_the_Clear_Heels_Vegas_com_Will_Pay_Your_Baggage_Fee

*** U.S. proposes tougher passenger-rights rules for airlines

http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-airline-rules-20100603,0,2087924.story

*** The DOT Proposes New Airline Rules, Like Paying Bumped Passengers $1,300 http://www.jaunted.com/story/2010/6/3/9611/60579/travel/The+DOT+Proposes+New+Airline+Rules%2C+Like+Paying+Bumped+Passengers+%241%2C300

*** What are your rights?

Delays and Cancellations for Domestic U.S. Flights

Compensation for Flight Delays and Overbookings

http://www.airsafe.com/complain/bumping.htm

*** New rules allow flight cancellations within 24 hours

http://www.freep.com/article/20100602/FEATURES07/100602039/1322/New-rules-allow-flight-cancellations-within-24-hours

*** Delta Furthers Premium Seating On Regional Jets

http://www.btnonline.com/businesstravelnews/headlines/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1004097359

*** In 2007, RTC began spotlighting the most memorable and influential rail-trails across the country as part of the Rail-Trail Hall of Fame.

Trail of the Month

South Dakota's George S. Mickelson Trail

http://www.railstotrails.org/news/recurringFeatures/trailMonth/archives/1005.html

http://gfp.sd.gov/state-parks/directory/mickelson-trail/default.aspx

Check out the first 15 inductees!

http://www.railstotrails.org/news/recurringFeatures/trailMonth/index.html

*** Got your ashes hauled?

Trip insurance may clear the air in the event of volcanic ash disruptions, hurricaes, etc.

http://www.insuremytrip.com/

*** Continental, Citing Merger, Postpones Inflight Internet

http://www.btnonline.com/businesstravelnews/headlines/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1004097261

*** Some commercials are so bad, they are memorably good. And some are just bad.

Some say this is one of those ads. Is it wildly off key? Check it out at this site:

http://www.nothinglikeaustralia.com/index.htm

*** Babes behind bars

http://travel.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=983436

*** Blue Ridge Parkway 75th Anniversary Celebration at Skylark Farm June 13

Celebration for the Blue Ridge Parkway has never been more exciting at the “Round Top” at Skylark Farm! On Sunday June 13th from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., you can experience panoramic viewing of the Blue Ridge where you can see all the way to West Virginia (telescope provided by Charlottesville Astronomical Society members)! Bring your kites or simply enjoy kite flying with members of the American Kite Flyers Association and the Richmond Air Force.

Skylark Farms has wonderful places to enjoy a family picnic, or simply take a stroll throughout Skylark Farm. At the “Round Top” enjoy mountain music by Jimbo Cary, Benny Dodd or Curtis Matthews and their musician friends. Listen to stories of mountain life and Skylark with Lowell Humphries, Scott Beebe and meet local authors of books featuring rural living and traditions.

Do you know how the Blue Ridge Parkway was conceived? Come talk to the experts and visit their display of art works by Carlton Abbott, artist, architect and landscape designer of many Parkway projects including historical design documents. Jeff Trollinger, VDGIF Watchable Wildlife Program Manager, and Board Member for the 75th Blue Ridge Parkway Anniversary, will provide a Power Point presentation of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Sponsors of this Blue Ridge Parkway 75th Anniversary Celebration are Washington and Lee University, owner of Skylark Farm; FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway; Oakland: Nelson County's Museum of Rural History; and the Rockfish Valley Foundation.

Although this event is free to the public, a $5 donation is recommended to provide support. for sponsors. For more information contact FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway (email: Staff@FriendsBRP.org, or website: www.BlueRidgeFriends.org).

*** Learn to Paddle

Paddling America's waterways can be relaxing, rejuvenating, even exhilarating. But it also comes with responsibility for you, your paddling partners, other resource users, and the environment.

Lessons from a certified ACA Instructor, an ACA Pro School, or from our online course, are a perfect way to start. They are educational, fun, informative, and can be completed in a remarkably short time.

Some type of instruction is essential for getting the most out of paddlesport even if it is a 3 hour Quickstart Course. With instruction, you will have more fun, gain confidence, go farther and faster with less effort. Take control of your paddling experience. Take a lesson from a certified ACA Instructor.

Set aside time to learn the basic use of safety equipment and proper stroke technique. In a few days, you can develop a solid foundation of skills, far quicker than if you learn piecemeal from friends, or haphazardly by trial and error.

The typical paddling class atmosphere is fun. By taking a class you meet other people who will be about your skill level, thus you will expand your network of paddling friends.

http://www.acanet.org/

*** Ned is offering free 468×60 pixel .jpg banner ads at the YVNS website for conservation organizations (Ned will decline this offer to organizations that conduct or promote illegal activities). Contact Ned at lundquist989@cs.com for details. Well, actually, those are the details. 468×60 pixel .jpg. or gif. With your url. And it’s free.

*** Trail volunteer opportunities:

Sultan River (WA) Access Trail Work Party

American Whitewater has scheduled a work party with Washington Trails Association for Saturday June 19 from 8:30-3:00 to work on the Sultan River trail into the gorge on the Upper Sultan.

As part of the relicensing for the hydropower project on the Sultan River American Whitewater has worked to restore flows to the Sultan River for whitewater recreation and ecosystem processes. While the new agreement we have negotiated will not take effect until at least 2011, we have some important stewardship work that needs to be done on the trail into the gorge. During test flows to determine the feasibility of providing whitewater recreation a privately-constructed miner's trail was severely damaged in places. It was not designed to sustain the level of traffic it received and we are now working with the Forest Service to identify an alternate route into the gorge that avoids unstable soils and maintains a more gradual grade.

Volunteers should be at the trailhead near Culmback Dam by 8:30 for an orientation and safety briefing (follow directions to the put-in for the Upper Sultan). Washington Trails Association will provide tools, hard hats, and crew leaders. Volunteers need to provide and wear work gloves, work boots, and work clothes (long pants).

If you can help out for the day please contact AW at info@americanwhitewater.org so we can plan accordingly. Following the work party there will be an opportunity to get a run in on the Skykomish.

Thomas O'Keefe

3537 NE 87th St.Seattle, WA 98115

E-mail: okeefe@americanwhitewater.org

Phone: 425-417-9012

http://www.americanwhitewater.org/content/Article/view/articleid/30748/display/full/

*** Gulf Coast Surveillance Teams – Volunteer Opportunities

The National Wildlife Federation, its five Gulf state affiliates, and other partners are establishing Gulf Coast Surveillance Teams to:

•Track and report on the impacts of the oil spill.

•Support wildlife rescue and rehabilitation efforts.

•Restore damaged delicate coastal ecosystems in the Gulf of Mexico.

We are looking for people who:

•Have skills in wildlife observation and tracking (whether as bird watchers, naturalists, or sportsmen).

•Are knowledgeable about the Gulf Coast and its waters

•Know many of the species of birds, fish, turtles, marine mammals and other animals that will be at risk from the oil spill.

•Are preferably local to one of the surveillance locations.

http://www.nwf.org/Volunteer/Find-Opportunities/Gulf-Coast-Surveillance.aspx

*** The June YVNS sport Ned has never heard of:

Ottery St. Mary Tar Barrels – tar soaked barrels are lit and carried around the town with local people battling it out for barrel running supremacy. The evening culminates in a huge bonfire being lit by the winning barrel on the banks of the river Otter.

Ottery St. Mary, Devon.

The Tar Barrel tradition is hundreds of years old. The exact origins are unknown but probably started after the gunpowder plot of 1605. Various alternative reasons suggested for burning barrels have included fumigation of cottages and as a warning of the approach of the Spanish armada.

The West Country has a history of torchlight processions and burning barrels and Ottery was only one of the many towns and villages following an annual tradition containing barrels which were rolled in the streets on November 5th each year. Somewhere along the line someone decided rolling was tame and carrying barrels on your shoulders was far more appealing and so the present tradition was born and now Ottery is the only Town in the country carrying full sized lighted tar barrels through the streets.

The procession of tableaux is also an old West Country tradition and is still a popular part of the winter months when most weekends will see a procession of brightly lit tableaux in a great many Towns and villages.

November the 5th each year is the traditional day for the Tar Barrels and only changes when the 5th falls on a Sunday. The procession and fireworks are normally on the Saturday before the 5th of November.

Not just a tradition more a way of life

Those who have visited Ottery St Mary on 5 November, still find it difficult to understand what motivates the townspeople into carrying flaming tar barrels through the streets.

Seventeen barrels are carried during the day. They start in the afternoon and range in size from small for the “boys”, medium for the women and youths, up to “gert big unz” for the men. Traditionally, the barrels are set alight at various public houses and hotels around the town and follow a tight schedule until the final barrel is carried in the square around midnight.

Over a 12 month period, barrels are selected and their internal surface coated with good old fashioned coal tar, available from only one source in the country. Straw and paper is placed inside to help the lighting process and the melting tar does the rest.

The “Barrel Rollers” jealously guard their right to carry barrels. Unlike bygone days, the present day “Rolling” has a high element of control but the fervour and commitment is no less now than in olden days. The motivation is borne from a deep sense of tradition and in many cases this has involved generations o the same family. The Tar Barrels is run for the towns people of Ottery and commercial considerations take second place. Although we welcome visitors, the object of the evening is to perpetuate a tradition, so if you attend it, don't try and change it, just stand back and enjoy one of the spectacles in our country's history.

The Bonfire

Ottery's giant bonfire is an integral part of the annual tar barrels and has many sites throughout its history. It is hard to visualise a bonfire being sited on the Flexton near the town's monument, but it was.

The present site on St Saviours Meadow has been the home for the bonfire in more recent times and alternate banks on the River Otter have been used over the years. most people associate the bonfire with the fairground as they stand adjacent to one another. Many a photographer has caught the magic moment at the fire blazes, complemented by the coloured lights of the big fairground in the background.

Three weeks before the tar barrels, all manner of material is collected from the community to build the bonfire. The sight of the first fully laden tractor and trailer seems to herald the coming of the tar barrels and in turn generates a bout of communal pruning. On the week before the tar barrels the bonfire is finalised and usually stands about 35ft high with a girth of around 50ft.

The Guy for the bonfire has been made by the same family since 1958. Peter Young has prepared him for the last 10 years and his father Archie before him. The committee would like to express their appreciation for their continued support.

On tar barrels day the ceremonial Guy is placed on top of the bonfire and in the evening the Carnival Vice President sets a flaming torch to the base and a spectacle of flame is enjoyed by all.

http://www.otterytarbarrels.co.uk/

Read more: http://www.bugbog.com/english_speaking_countries/united_kingdom/travel_uk_sporting_events.html#ixzz0pofuVKHP

*** Travel/Adventure/Outdoors employment opportunities:

*** From Jack Duggan:

Ned –

Something for your lists….. Enjoy!

Walk in Peace – Jack

1.) Coordinator, Administrative: Conservation International, Global Marine Division, Arlington, Virginia

The Global Marine Division (GMD) within Conservation International (CI) is seeking an Administrative Coordinator to provide financial, operational and administrative support The Coordinator will be responsible for contract development and management, will oversee the day-to-day financial transactions of the division, maintain filing systems, support the GMD leadership team, as well as other operational support such as meeting management and timesheet coordination.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Administer all contracts through the contract development and approval process: Work with program leads on developing external consulting, vendor, and grant agreements and facilitate the contract approval process. Manage and monitor all agreements to ensure that contracts are valid, that spending limits respected and required reports have been submitted and approved.

• Maintain day-to-day financial transactions: Review and prepare vendor check requests, wire transfers, re-classes, reimbursements, in-coming grant registration, and other paperwork to Accounting and ensure compliance with the division's annual budget and the coding system is being used correctly and consistently.

• Maintain operational services within the division: Create and maintain a filing system for the division's financial, legal, and HR paperwork, send and distribute mail, manage and prepare work spaces for newly hired staff, meeting management and logistics coordination, and other duties as assigned.

• Support the GMD leadership team: Prepare expense reports, make travel arrangements, and other duties as assigned.

• Maintain day-to-day HR processes: collect timesheets, review and prepare paperwork associated with hiring or staff changes.

• Other duties as assigned by supervisor

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, accounting or a related discipline with 2 or more years of professional experience

• Working knowledge of grants/contract development and management

• Experience with budgeting, financial systems and financial management

• Strong attention to detail and the ability to operate with considerable independence to effectively establish priorities and work accurately under time constraints

• Superior organizational and communications skills

• Self-directed problem solver

• Demonstrated ability to handle confidentiality of sensitive issues and information

• Flexibility and willingness to work in situations of flux; ability to work in a fast turn-around environment

• Strong work ethic and willingness to take ownership for wide-ranging responsibilities

• Thorough knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Excel and Power Point

• Experience with data gathering, analysis, and reporting

Preferred:

• Previous experience with Oracle financials, GEM, or similar financial or contract management system preferred

• Interest in ocean conservation

APPLICANT SHOULD SEND: Cover letter, resume and references.

Application Procedure:

Conservation International is committed to saving our environment. If you are able, please submit your application electronically! To apply, click here to submit your cover letter and resume. You may also send your application to: Conservation International Human Resources 2011 Crystal Drive, Suite 500 Arlington, VA 22202 No phone calls please. Conservation International is an equal opportunity employer.

Benefits:

You can find out more about CI's benefits on our benefits page.

CI Values:

As we pursue our vision and mission, we are guided by these essential and timeless values:

• Passion: We are inspired by nature and cherish the diversity of life in all of its forms.

• Respect: We respect and trust each other, and we embrace our diversity of cultures, talents, and experiences.

• Integrity: We act with integrity and are accountable for our actions.

• Optimism: We are optimistic about the future of life on Earth and are confident that, with our partners, we will achieve unprecedented conservation results.

• Courage: We tirelessly pursue our vision, taking bold action and persevering through challenges.

http://www.conservation.org/discover/careers/pages/Coordinator_Administrative.aspx

2.) White Water rafting trip guide, Orange Torpedo Trips (throughout the West), Merlin, OR

http://www.orangetorpedo.com/about_us/guide_jobs/

3.) Job Opportunities at Backpacking Light:

Backpacking Light is always on the lookout for talented individuals

with a passion for playing, living, and working in lightweight style.

How to Apply: jobs@backpackinglight.com

http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/jobs.html

4.) Activity Counselor, Aspen Camp of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Aspen, Colorado

Join us for a 10-week summer program, instructing in a specific area at camp.

Activities: arts & crafts, canoeing, challenge/ropes course, computer, hiking, drama, fishing, horseback riding, nature, swimming, tennis, zop line, sailing, soccer.

Room, board, laundry and staff training provided.

Salary Range: $250-350/week depending on prior experience and age

Type: Residential Coed Camp

Contact: office@aspencamp.org

Website: www.aspencamp.org

5.) Outdoor School Instructor, REI, Various locations

• New England

• Washington D.C. (Virginia/Maryland)

• Philadelphia

• San Francisco Bay Area

• Sierra

• Greater Los Angeles (Orange County/Inland Empire)

• San Diego

Job Description: The REI Outdoor School is a place where people can learn the basics needed to embark on a new adventure. We provide the gear and instruction for activities which include: Rock Climbing, Kayaking, Canoeing, Mountain Biking, Road Cycling, Hiking, Natural History, Outdoor Photography and Navigation Outings for both Map & Compass and GPS. Combine your passion with your work! Inspire, lead, and educate!

Join our Outdoor School team where you will find supportive leadership, a committed staff and an engaging work culture.

THE JOB:

The OUTDOOR SCHOOL INSTRUCTOR, is a key member of the Outdoor School Team. Specific responsibilities include:

• Successfully lead REI Outdoor School programs

• Teach in-store educational classes as well as conduct in-the-field programs for REI customers to include delivery of class content, customer service during the outing, and the safety of all the participants

• Maintain equipment and coordinate outing logistics prior to field day

• Coach large groups of people and lead instructional events

• Thorough knowledge in the course content, demonstrating the designated activity or sport with safety and skill

• Partner with store management teams, outreach teams, local business partners as well as local outdoor organizations

• This position reports to the REI Outdoor School Market Supervisor

Qualifications: THE REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimum of 3 years experience in outdoor education with experience teaching and/or guiding outdoor experience.

• Demonstrated outdoor leadership skills to include outstanding teaching and presentation abilities, and exceptional planning and organizational skills

• Proven analytical and problem solving skills

• Commitment to outstanding customer service with the ability to effectively resolve difficult customer issues

• Applicable certification or equivalent experience in technical outdoor education preferred

• Regional knowledge of local outdoor venues and resources is highly desirable

• Knowledge of legal and risk management issues related to outdoor education

• Required Certification in Wilderness First Aid and CPR

• Valid driver’s license with no negative incidents and ability to acquire commercial driver’s license which includes medical screen

• Experience as a Wilderness First Responder (preferred)

• Computer skills using MS PowerPoint, Word, Outlook, and the Internet

THE PERKS:

At REI, we understand that benefits matter – we offer a competitive offering which includes:

– Comprehensive health and well-being programs

– A competitive bonus/ incentive program

– REI Retirement Plan

– Generous gear and merchandise discount

– Paid time off

– Professional growth and development opportunities

AND

A work environment where RESPECT, INTEGRITY, and BALANCE are just a few of our fundamental values!

REI is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

https://www.rei.apply2jobs.com/HVExt/index.cfm?fuseaction=mHvexternal.showPositionDetails&PID=42

6.) RTL ASSOC – ARCHERY, Cabela's, Hammond, IN

http://cabelas.kenexa.com/cabelas/cc/CCJobResultsAction.ss?command=ViewJobDetails&job_REQUISITION_NUMBER=13478

7.) RTL ASSOC – HUNTING, Part-Time, Cabela's, Triadelphia, West Virginia

http://cabelas.kenexa.com/cabelas/cc/CCJobResultsAction.ss?command=ViewJobDetails&job_REQUISITION_NUMBER=13182

8.) RTL ASSOC – FISHING, Part-Time, Cabela's, Billings, Montana

http://cabelas.kenexa.com/cabelas/cc/CCJobResultsAction.ss?command=ViewJobDetails&job_REQUISITION_NUMBER=13421

9.) RTL ASSOC – MARINE, Cabela's, Rogers, Minnesota

http://cabelas.kenexa.com/cabelas/cc/CCJobResultsAction.ss?command=ViewJobDetails&job_REQUISITION_NUMBER=13720

10.) INTERNET GRAPHIC DESIGNER I, Cabela's, Sidney, NE

Cabela's, the World's Foremost Outfitter of hunting and fishing gear has an opening for an Internet Graphic Designer I at the corporate office in Sidney, NE.

Activities & Responsibilities:

Creation of electronic art, screen layouts and typography for internet and email campaigns.

Participate in concept developement and design ideation of visual designs, web layouts and branding campaigns.

Assists in the execution of the graphic production life-cycle from project-turnover to live and-on-website of various projects and visual designs.

Follows Cabela's style guide for use of logos, icons, color palettes and design.

Education & Experience:

1-3 years of experience

Associate degree

Required photoshop

Preferred HTML and Optimization software and Adobe Illustrator

http://cabelas.kenexa.com/cabelas/cc/CCJobResultsAction.ss?command=ViewJobDetails&job_REQUISITION_NUMBER=13447

*** From Mark Sofman:

11.) Fly Casting Instructor, L. L. Bean, Victor, NY

http://bit.ly/cJuAaA

12.) Fly Fishing Guide, Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, Farmington, PA

https://www.hrapply.com/nemacolin/AppJobView.jsp?link=5362&electronic_referral=indeed

13.) Executive Director. Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation, Hungry Horse, Montana

The Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation Executive Director is a full time salaried position with a 40 hour work week. Some travel and weekend availability is required; use of your personal vehicle will be necessary with mileage reimbursement at the standard government rate. This position is based at the Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation office located in Hungry Horse, MT at the USFS Hungry Horse Ranger Station. This position reports to the president of the Board of Directors.

The starting date for this position will be September 1st with date negotiable depending upon experience. The salary is $28,000 – 33,000, depending on experience, with benefits including vacation, sick leave and paid holidays. Other benefits include health insurance and retirement package.

BOB MARSHALL WILDERNESS FOUNDATION MISSION STATEMENT

The Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation (BMWF) assists in maintaining and restoring the trail system of the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex with National Groups, Youth Groups, and individual volunteers. We foster wilderness stewardship skills and education through volunteer opportunities in Montana's premier wilderness area and surrounding wild lands.

ORGANIZATION DESCRIPTION

The Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex (BMWC), located in northwest Montana, includes 1.5 million acres of designated wilderness consisting of the Great Bear, Bob Marshall, and Scapegoat Wilderness Areas. The wilderness complex is considered the crown jewel of the wilderness preservation system and is well known for its incredible scenery, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. As recreational funding allocated to the Forest Service continues to decline, the regular maintenance of trails and management of recreational use has greatly decreased in the BMWC.

The Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation (BMWF) believes that the most effective way to alleviate the negative impact of recreational use is to preserve this wilderness trail system and heighten awareness about wilderness stewardship. The BMWF works towards these goals by promoting volunteerism and educating people about the values of wilderness and the actions necessary to preserve and care for the land.

Working in cooperation with the Forest Service, the Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation coordinates 50 volunteer projects on an annual basis with local and national volunteer groups, youth-at-risk organizations, local schools, bible camps, community organizations, and individuals. Over 400 volunteers participate on our projects each year. Current volunteer opportunities are primarily ongoing trail maintenance projects that require work by volunteers to bring them up to standard and continued work to maintain them. Additional project work also includes campsite restoration projects, seed collection, and noxious weed mapping and treatment projects.

Other than the project work, one of the primary objectives of the Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation is to provide an opportunity for volunteers to interact with their landscape via outdoor and wilderness education while participating on trail maintenance and restoration projects. This is especially true of our many youth and youth-at-risk organization volunteer projects, as it is our hope that with added outdoor education, this will build a wilderness ethic and will encourage volunteers to be more invested with protection and care of their public lands.

To be considered for this position, please submit your resume, three references, responses to supplemental questions and a brief letter that addresses how your knowledge, skills, and experience will support the Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation's mission, vision, goals and objectives to: exec@bmwf.org or mail to Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation, P.O. Box 190688, Hungry Horse, MT 59919, attn: Paul Travis.

Application packets must be in our office by July 9th to be considered for the job.

Job Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

Qualifications may be met by any combination of education and experience that provide the knowledge, skills and abilities listed in the job description. Typically, the Executive Director will have graduated from an accredited college with a major in wilderness management, recreation, natural resource management, outdoor education or closely-related field and have at least two years experience in a supervisory and administrative capacity.

The ideal Executive Director candidate will possess the following:

Knowledge and experience with programs related to Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation's mission, vision, goals and objectives.

Experience with a government agency, outdoor program, or non-profit organization.

Fundraising experience, grant writing and finance management skills.

Proficient computer skills including Word, Excel, Quickbooks, website and database applications.

Additional experience that would be desirable for this position:

Experience in volunteer and outdoor program management.

Knowledge of trail maintenance and construction.

Knowledge of the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, its trail system and management.

Wilderness living skills including Leave No Trace, map and compass, extended trips in the backcountry, etc.

JOB DUTIES include, but are not limited to, the following:

Grants and Agreements:

Research, write and submit grants as appropriate to secure funding for volunteer program and administrative costs.

Manage relationships with grantors including submittal of any progress reports, reimbursement requests and final reports.

Work with the Forest Service to update and approval annual operating agreements to complete required documentation for the Recreational Trails Program.

Employee Management:

Supervise the Program Director including initial training in USFS volunteer project procedure and management, assigned responsibilities and time management.

Oversee the hiring of the seasonal crew leaders in cooperation with the program director.

In the program director's absence, become the point of contact for crew leaders.

Keep files updated on all employees including timesheets, pay stubs and other employee information.

Project Management:

Create volunteer project lists for the upcoming season and grant applications in cooperation with the program director.

Participate in the annual meetings with Forest Service managers to evaluate completed projects and plan for the upcoming season's projects and attend BMWC managers meetings in the fall and spring.

In cooperation with the program director, contact any potential new volunteer groups for recruitment for volunteer projects.

Develop protocol for volunteer contact and information exchange.

Stay informed during the field season on volunteer project details and become the primary contact for the USFS and volunteers in the absence of the program director.

Participate on volunteer projects when possible.

Work with Forest Service representatives in planning and initiation of special projects including the Artist*Wilderness*Connection program.

Finances:

Develop an annual budget for board review and update as needed throughout the year based on grant income and unforeseen expenses.

Perform monthly bookkeeping duties including payroll, bank account reconciliation, accounts payable, and deposits.

File monthly taxes including state, federal and unemployment. Complete any other payroll related paperwork and fees as needed including workman's compensation, retirement, health insurance, etc.

Create annual and quarterly financial reports. Work with tax advisors to troubleshoot any accounting problems and in the filing of annual taxes.

Work with the program director in the management of project funds during the project season.

Work with the board treasurer and attend all finance committee meetings.

Fundraising:

Manage fundraising activities including identification of new projects and management of existing fundraisers.

Serve as the key coordinator for any fundraising functions.

Acknowledge all membership and project giving donations in a timely fashion.

Attend the board fundraising events committee meetings

Attend all development committee meetings and work with committee chair to help develop and manage additional fundraising tools.

Board Management:

Attend BMWF Board Meetings and develop items for the agenda.

Work in cooperation with the board on the development of policies.

Keep board members informed of upcoming events and meetings and distribute meeting minutes.

Coordinate the annual board meeting.

Update the board manual as needed and provide copies to new board members.

Manage and help develop board strategic planning.

Create reports or research information as requested by the board.

Coordinate any advisory, resource or task force committees as they arise.

Public Interface and Outreach:

Work with the program director in the drafting of the newsletter including reporting accomplishments (fall) and recruitment for new volunteers (spring) and articles as needed for other publications.

Write news releases and manage all PR and media for the BMWF in cooperation with the media task force and other media consultants.

Send out information when requested by the public including tax returns and information about our program.

Deliver presentations at public functions for volunteer recruitment or information sharing about foundation activities.

BMWF Business:

Manage any printing and mailing projects.

Oversee computer and technical needs for BMWF office and crew leaders.

Oversee any purchases for gear, equipment, office supplies, etc.

Utilize and manage volunteers in the office and for special projects when possible.

Supplemental Questions:

1.What supervisory skills and experience will you bring to this position?

2. Please discuss your office management skills including any experience in bookkeeping, budgeting, financial management, grant writing and database management.

3. Describe your administrative skills and your ability to plan, organize and handle multiple tasks at one time.

4. Give an example of your ability to communicate orally and in writing. How have your past experiences prepared you for this position in regards to communication skills?

5. Describe how your knowledge, skills and abilities will help you deal with varying viewpoints of volunteers, managers, and diverse organizations.

6. Describe your ability to apply for and administer grants and to plan and organize fund raising events.

7. Describe your experience with wilderness, wilderness stewardship, and organizing volunteer or outdoor programs.

Closing date for applications to be received by our office is July 9th. Applications will be evaluated by committee once they are received. Applicants will be notified by July 16th if they qualify for an interview. The starting date for this position will be September 1st.

APPLY FOR THIS JOB

Contact Person: Paul Travis

Email Address: exec@bmwf.org

Phone: 406-387-3847

Fax: 406-387-3889

http://jobs.prnewsonline.com/c/job.cfm?site_id=1691&jb=6876786

14.) ARCHEOLOGIST, Tourism and State Development Rapid City, SD

Position Purpose: This position investigates, preserves, and protects cultural resources throughout the state by preparing reports on archaeological surveys and sites, maintaining cultural resource inventory and site evaluation activities, and performing administrative work related to archaeological contracts for government agencies and other organizations to safeguard the cultural resources of South Dakota.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of:

archaeology, prehistory, history, and geography;

Plains archaeology and history;

mapmaking, GPS equipment, and GIS software;

archaeological laboratory analysis and excavation methods and techniques;

state and federal regulations that relate to mining, exploration, and cultural resource management.

Ability to:

excavate archaeological sites;

use computers in conducting research;

use office applications;

follow written and oral instructions;

communicate information clearly and concisely;

deal tactfully with the public and organizations;

determine the value of cultural resources and archaeological sites;

inventory archaeological sites, surveys, maps, and related information;

maintain and establish effective working relationships with landowners and construction project managers and workers;

motivate and direct other archaeologists and seasonal personnel.

Comments: Most of the work for this position is by contract with various agencies such as Department of Transportation and Department of Game, Fish, and Parks. Functions will include survey, site mapping, occasional excavation, archaeological lab analysis, and report writing. Considerable travel is involved, and people in this position often work outdoors under rigorous conditions.

http://www.state.sd.us/applications/pr47jobs/JobDescription.asp?ReqNum=100332

15.) Coastal Louisiana Restoration Campaign Manager, National Wildlife Federation (NWF), Washington, D.C

Join us by working a job you're WILD about!

Find a job you’re wild about at the National Wildlife Federation (NWF), the nation’s largest member-supported conservation organization, which is at the forefront of global warming issues, reconnecting our children with nature, and protecting America’s wildlife and habitat.

Position Description

We seek a qualified individual to oversee campaign implementation on a day to day basis, drive national strategy, coordination of multiple working groups, juggling multiple projects, setting priorities. Collaborating with diverse group partners, communicating with regional and national staff. The Campaign Manager's primary responsibility is to implement a multi-organizational campaign plan that integrates policy, field, coalition outreach, paid media, internet and activist outreach to build support for the restoration of coastal Louisiana and ensure the resiliency of its coastal communities. The campaign manager will execute a national campaign plan, coordinating up to six working groups, and responsible for making adjustments to the plan and implementation to leverage available resources to make the most progress possible towards the overarching goals.

The Coastal Louisiana Restoration Campaign Manager responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Overseeing the campaign's successful implementation on a day to day basis. Coordinating the planning and implementation of the various elements of the campaign so they act as an integrated whole. Driving the development of campaign strategy, message, and tactics working closely with policy, communications, field and other working groups. Working closely with Steering Committee to ensure campaign is well-implemented and its results tracked and documented. Working with coalition partners to ensure campaign is as closely aligned as possible with their work and is leveraging additional national and state-based assets. Helping prepare funder updates and assist with funder outreach as guided by Steering Committee. Working with and overseeing 3 direct reports.

Position Requirements

Candidates for this position should have at least eight years of professional post-college experience, including at least five years managing advocacy campaigns, preferably at the national level. B.A. or B.S. in Political Science, Natural Resources or other related field. Post-graduate degrees or work preferred. Qualified applicants must have a strong commitment to environmental issues, excellent verbal, writing and analytical skills and an ability (and desire) to navigate and constructively engage a number of stakeholders charged with oversight and implementation of the campaign.

https://careers.nwf.org/ext/detail.asp?jobid=nwf2041

*** Your Very Next Step is a service of the Job of the Week Network LLC

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Editor and Publisher

Your Very Next Step

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www.nedsjotw.com

Subscribe for free. Send a blank email to:

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Your Very Next Step newsletter for May 2010

Neds Job of the Week 05/24/2010

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Your Very Next Step newsletter for May 2010

“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes.”

– Marcel Proust

“To know the road ahead, ask those coming back.”

— Chinese proverb

The next adventure begins with your very next step.

“Your Very Next Step” newsletter, published by Ned Lundquist, is a cooperative community, and everyone is invited, no…encouraged, no…urged to participate.

Subscribe for free. Send a blank email to:

yourverynextstep-subscribe@topica.com.

Send us your comments, questions, and contributions to lundquist989@cs.com.

You are now among 646 subscribers.

Contact Ned at lundquist989@cs.com.

*** In this issue:

*** American Tortoise Rescue

*** National Trails Day

*** Travel News

*** Mount Whitney

*** Where Ned has been

*** Trail volunteer opportunities

*** YVNS Sport Ned Has Never Heard Of: Australian National Goanna Pulling Championship

*** Travel, Outdoor and Adventure Jobs and Volunteer Opportunities

1.) Supv Bowling Facility Manager, Air Force Materiel Command, Hanscom AFB, Bedford, MA

2.) Writers, Fodor's Travel

3.) Communications Director, Ecology Center, Ann Arbor, MI

4.) Corrals Wrangler, Grand Teton Lodge Co., Grand Teton National Park, WY

5.) Blacksmith, Firth Rixson Ltd., Rancho Cucamonga, CA

6.) Skateboard Instructors, Smuggler's Notch Resort, Jeffersonville, VT

…and much more…and it’s all FREE!!!

*** Do you have a travel adventure to share?

Send me your stories and I’ll post in the “Your Very Next Step” and on the YVNS website (http://www.yourverynextstep.com/).

*** There were massive air travel delays over the holidays, from weather to airport lockdowns. Did you experience this? Can you share your story with YVNS? Contact Ned at lundquist989@cs.com.

*** I really want to see the Northern Lights. But when I am in the northern latitudes next month, I probably won’t be able to see them even though I will be at 58 degrees N or so. Why? Because it will be the third longest day of the year, and with all that “midnight sun” daylight, it won’t be conducive for stargazing, or aurora gazing.

*** Is it worth it to pay more and sit up front?

Share your thoughts about first and business class with Ned at lundquist989@cs.com.

*** Outdoor facilities:

Check out this outdoor toilet in Amherst County, VA, about five miles from the West Virginia borders along the North River in George Washington National Forest.

http://www.yourverynextstep.com/blog/_archives/2010/5/16/4530056.html

*** National Trails Day® is Saturday, June 5, 2010

American Hiking Society's signature trail awareness program, National Trails Day® (NTD), inspires the public and trail enthusiasts nationwide to seek out their favorite trails to discover, learn about, and celebrate trails while participating in educational exhibits, trail dedications, gear demonstrations, instructional workshops and trail work projects.

NTD also provides an opportunity to thank volunteers, land managing agencies, and outdoor-minded businesses for their support in developing and maintaining trails.

http://www.americanhiking.org/NTD.aspx

*** American Tortoise Rescue Celebrates World Turtle Day May 23rd

California Sanctuary Sponsors Day to Honor One of the World’s Oldest Creatures

Malibu, Calif. – May 13, 2010 – American Tortoise Rescue (http://www.tortoise.com), a nonprofit organization established 20 years ago for the protection of all species of tortoise and turtle, is sponsoring its 10th annual World Turtle Day on May 23rd. Featured in Chase’s Book of Annual Events, the day was created as an annual observance to help people celebrate and protect turtles and tortoises and their disappearing habitats around the world. Susan Tellem and Marshall Thompson, founders of ATR, advocate humane treatment of all animals, including reptiles. Since 1990, ATR has placed about 3,000 tortoises and turtles in caring homes. ATR assists law enforcement when undersize or endangered turtles are confiscated and provides helpful information and referrals to persons with sick, neglected or abandoned turtles.

“World Turtle Day was started to increase respect and knowledge for the world’s oldest creatures. These gentle animals have been around for about 200 million years, yet they are rapidly disappearing as a result of the exotic food industry, habitat destruction and the cruel pet trade,” says Tellem. “We are seeing smaller turtles coming into the rescue meaning that older adults are disappearing from the wild, and the breeding stock is drastically reduced. It is a very sad time for turtles and tortoises of the world.” She added that many beautiful sea turtles are losing their lives this month thanks to BP’s uncontrolled oil spill off the coast of Louisiana. “It’s a tragic example of putting profits before preserving our environment,” Tellem said.

Tellem and Thompson note that experts predict the complete disappearance of these creatures within the next 50 years. They recommend that adults and children do a few small things that can help to save turtles and tortoises for the next generation.

• Never buy a turtle or tortoise from a pet shop as it increases demand from the wild.

• Never remove turtles or tortoises from the wild unless they are sick or injured.

• If a tortoise is crossing a busy street, pick it up and send it in the same direction it was going – if you try to make it go back, it will turn right around again.

• Write letters to legislators asking them to keep sensitive habitat preserved or closed to off road vehicles, and to prevent off shore drilling that can lead to more endangered sea turtle deaths.

• Report cruelty or illegal sales of turtles and tortoises to your local animal control shelter.

• Report the sale of any turtle or tortoise of any kind less than four inches. This is illegal everywhere in the U.S.

“Illegal vendors at downtown Mercados and Asian live food markets throughout the U.S. are a major problem for turtles, especially the ‘red eared slider’ water turtle. These poor creatures have an almost 100 percent mortality rate due to ignorance about their care,” Tellem says. Tiny turtles need to be kept in warm water, and must eat under water to survive.

“Our ultimate goal is to stop the illegal trade in turtles and tortoises around the world. Our first priority here in the U.S. is to stop pet stores and reptile shows from selling illegal hatchling tortoises and turtles of all species under four inches which is against Federal law,” says Thompson. “We also need to educate people who are unfamiliar with their proper care about the real risk of contracting salmonella from turtles. Schools and county fairs are no place for turtles. Wash your hands thoroughly every time you touch a turtle or its water, and do not bring turtles into homes where children are under the age of 12.”

For answers to questions and other information visit American Tortoise Rescue online at www.tortoise.com or send e-mail to info@tortoise.com; on Twitter @tortoiserescue; or become a friend at American Tortoise Rescue at Facebook.

*** Here’s the YVNS Travel News for May:

*** United And Continental to merge:

What does it mean to you? Share your comments with Ned at lundquist989@cs.com.

*** United And Continental Announce Merger Of Equals

Continental and United today announced a definitive merger agreement, creating the world’s leading airline.

http://www.unitedcontinentalmerger.com/news-announcements

*** United and Continental Airlines are counting on more business travelers — not higher fares for vacationers — to make their $3 billion merger pay. (AP)

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100503/ap_on_bi_ge/us_united_continental

*** Cleveland Hopkins to remain a hub after Continental-United merger — at least for now

http://www.cleveland.com/business/index.ssf/2010/05/continental_and_united_announc.html

*** Airborne volcanic ash and turbofan engines-bad combination:

http://www.cnn.com/2010/TRAVEL/05/16/europe.ash.cloud/?hpt=T2

*** The Cost of Europe's Volcanic Ash Travel Crisis (Time)

http://news.yahoo.com/s/time/20100419/wl_time/08599198316900

*** This is pretty useful:

http://www.jaunted.com/story/2010/2/17/11298/7173/travel/Updated+Again%21+Our+Map+of+Airports+Around+the+World+With+Free+WiFi

*** Mount Whitney:

Hikers dream of “bagging” Mt. Whitney in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, the highest peak in the lower 48 states. While it's a mere four hour drive north of Los Angeles, it's a difficult journey due to the length of the hike (22 miles round trip), the elevation gain (over 6,000 feet) and the thin air (you'll be at 14,497 feet on the summit, although some maps say 14,495 and some 14,505).

The southern terminus of the John Muir Trail (which runs 212 miles from Yosemite Valley), Mount Whitney is just 76 miles west of the lowest point in North America (Death Valley at 282 feet below sea level), and immediately rises just over 2 miles in elevation above the floor of the Owens Valley.

The most popular route to hike to the summit of Mt. Whitney is the main Mount Whitney Trail (MMWT) whose trailhead originates in Whitney Portal at 8,360 feet (and 13 miles west of the town of Lone Pine, California. The hike is about 22 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 6,100 feet.

The steep eastern side of the mountain offers a variety of climbing challenges. The “Mountaineer's Route”, a Class 3 gully to the north of the east face, was first climbed by John Muir. The East Face route, first climbed in 1931, is a classic easy climbing route of the Sierra; mostly Class 3, with the hardest parts at only 5.4. Other routes range up to 5.10 in difficulty.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/richpub/syltguides/fullview/R1XBDD82LB3YF1

*** Trail volunteer opportunities

*** Welcome to the Red River Gorge Trail Crew.

We are a Volunteer Group dedicated to providing access to the beautiful Red River Gorge through a well maintained trail system. We meet the second Saturday of each month for our trail maintenance service outings. With some projects, we trim back brush and paint new markers; other times we use crosscut saws to remove fallen trees. During some outings, we repair the trail tread. With other projects, we build bridges, stairs, and other trail structures while learning traditional outdoors skills.

Some summer outings are followed with afternoon recreation like a paddle or a cool swim in the Red River. All Red River Gorge Trail Crew outings include an evening potluck dinner and fireside social.

Camping is provided for RRGTC Volunteers; some people arrive Friday night to avoid the morning drive while others come in on Saturday mornings. Many folks stay over Saturday night to enjoy the night sky and good company of fellow Volunteers. Sunday mornings sometimes offers a small group hike to unique areas of the Gorge.

During the course of a weekend, there is always a niche to be filled by everyone. The group is well founded in diversity and acceptance; each person goes along as they are and at their own pace. Accomplishing the “goal” at hand is very important, but the pure enjoyment of being out in nature is always paramount. The Red River Gorge Trail Crew offers an opportunity to learn and enjoy the trails of the Red River Gorge with like- minded people while contributing to the preservation of nature; it’s incredibly rewarding.

http://rrgtc.com/

*** The May YVNS sport Ned has never heard of:

Australian National Goanna Pulling Championship

The off-beat all-Australian sport of Goanna Pulling dates back to the 19th century. Contrary to the name, it is a test of strength between two people whereby contestants get down on all fours and are linked by a leather belt over their heads, enabling them to pull backwards, tug-of-war-style.

http://www.goannapulling.com/

http://www.totaltravel.com.au/travel/nsw/northernrivers/grafton/events/festivals/australian-national-1

*** Travel/Adventure/Outdoors employment opportunities:

1.) Supv Bowling Facility Manager, Air Force Materiel Command, Hanscom AFB, Bedford, MA

http://jobview.usajobs.gov/GetJob.aspx?JobID=87471949

*** From Bridget Serchak, who got it from Erica Duecy:

2.) Writers, Fodor's Travel

Fodor's Travel is looking to refresh its pool of writers in several countries for book and web projects. Assignments range from writing single articles about lifestyle topics (food, wine, shopping, spas, nightlife) to updating city and regional chapters (a mix of fact-checking and new writing). Pay ranges from around $250 to $3,500+, depending on assignment scope.

Fodor's is a leading guidebook brand for American travelers with more than 300 titles covering most corners of the globe (www.fodors.com).

Following are destinations with upcoming assignments. Please note that we hire journalists who have local expertise, i.e. most writers work in the specific country/region or live there at least part of the year:

USA

–Oregon (entire state, some assignments focus on food and wine)

–North Carolina

–South Carolina (Charleston and beyond)

–Georgia (Savannah and beyond)

–Massachusetts (Cape Cod area, including Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket)

Europe

–Amsterdam and the Netherlands

–Portugal (entire country)

Asia

–China (Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, and areas of China outside the major cities)

–Japan (Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto, Okinawa, and elsewhere in the country)

–India (entire country)

–Thailand

Central and South America

–Mexico (Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco, Los Cabos, Oaxaca, Veracruz)

–Honduras

–Brazil

–Peru

–Bolivia

–Colombia

Africa

–Egypt (esp for Western Desert coverage, possibly other assignments)

Middle East

–Israel

Feel free to pass this request on to friends, colleagues and journalism listservs. Interested parties should send me a brief email outlining their experience, and attach a resume or a link to their site.

Many thanks!

Erica

Erica Duecy

Restaurants & Hotels Editor

Fodor's Travel, Random House

1745 Broadway, Mail Drop 15-3

New York, NY 10019

(212) 572-6023

*** From Archer H. Christian:

Dear Sir or Madam- Please find below and attached a brief job listing for the Communications Director at the Ecology Center, a nonprofit based in Ann Arbor, MI. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me. Thank you for posting!

3.) Communications Director, Ecology Center, Ann Arbor, MI

Communications Director – Ecology Center, Inc. a dynamic, non-profit, environmental organization based in Ann Arbor, MI is seeking an experienced Communications Director to lead the development and implementation of strategic communication and public outreach efforts in support of market, legislative and educational campaigns in the areas of environmental health, climate, energy, land use and healthy food. The position requires six or more years experience in non-profit communications, organizing, journalism, public relations, or related jobs. Salary commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits. Visit www.ecocenter.org for full job description. Contact: jobs@ecocenter.org.

Archer H. Christian

Hiring Committee

Ecology Center

117 N. Division St.

Ann Arbor, MI 48104

734-761-3186 x107

734-424-1178 (home office: Wed-Fri)

archer@ecocenter.org

www.ecocenter.org

*** From Mark Sofman:

4.) Corrals Wrangler, Grand Teton Lodge Co., Grand Teton National Park, WY

https://vailresorts.taleo.net/careersection/external/jobdetail.ftl?lang=en&job=77401&src=JB-10280

5.) Blacksmith, Firth Rixson Ltd., Rancho Cucamonga, CA

http://bit.ly/cG8orL

6.) Skateboard Instructors, Smuggler's Notch Resort, Jeffersonville, VT

http://www.jobsinvt.com/seek/resultdetail.aspx?jobnum=538697

*** Your Very Next Step is a service of the Job of the Week Network LLC

Edward Lundquist, ABC –

Editor and Publisher

Your Very Next Step

7813 Richfield Road

Springfield, VA 22153

Home office phone: (703) 455-7661

lundquist989@cs.com

www.nedsjotw.com

Subscribe for free. Send a blank email to:

yourverynextstep-subscribe@topica.com.

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Your Very Next Step newsletter for April 2010

Neds Job of the Week 04/14/2010

[0] comments

Your Very Next Step newsletter for April 2010

” If you are walking to seek, ye shall find.”

– Sommeil Liberosensa

The next adventure begins with your very next step.

“Your Very Next Step” newsletter, published by Ned Lundquist, is a cooperative community, and everyone is invited, no…encouraged, no…urged to participate.

Subscribe for free. Send a blank email to:

yourverynextstep-subscribe@topica.com.

Send us your comments, questions, and contributions to lundquist989@cs.com.

You are now among 644 subscribers.

Contact Ned at lundquist989@cs.com.

In this issue:

*** Travel News

*** Trail volunteer opportunities

*** YVNS Sport Ned Has Never Heard Of: Haxey Hood

*** Travel, Outdoor and Adventure Jobs and Volunteer Opportunities

1.) Recreation Specialist, City of Colton, Colton, CA

2.) Recreation Specialist (Outdoor Rec Programmer), Air Force Morale, Welfare & Recreation Center, Barksdale AFB, LA

3.) Land Conservation Manager, Green Spaces Alliance of South Texas, San Antonio, Texas

4.) Recreation Aid (Lifeguard), Virgin Islands National Park, National Park Service, Department of the Interior, St. John, VI

5.) Backcountry Instructor, Paintrock Leadership Challenge, Mann Gulch, MT and Thermopolis WY

…and much more…and it’s all FREE!!!

*** Do you have a travel adventure to share?

Send me your stories and I’ll post in the “Your Very Next Step” and on the YVNS website (http://www.yourverynextstep.com/).

*** YVNS Trivia:

In 1957, Mohawk Airlines flight attendant Ruth Carol Taylor became the first African-American flight attendant in the U.S. Why was dismissed six months later? Answer below.

*** I’m thinking about buying a new Volvo and picking it up in Sweden. Volvo pays for the air fare. Have any of you done this? Sounds like it would make for a pretty neat vacation:

http://www.flyvolvo.com/

*** Here’s the YVNS Travel News for April:

*** Republic Airways Announces Branding Decision

Since Republic Airways acquired Midwest and Frontier last year, we have been working to combine the best features of our two brands. More recently, we asked travelers to help us determine how to move forward to deliver the best flying experience for our customers. Based on that feedback, we’ve concluded that the new single brand for our growing airline will be Frontier.

With that decision comes a promise that together we will deliver a truly different and better flying experience by providing the best care in the air. The new Frontier will be bigger, stronger and priced right. Travelers will enjoy an expanded combined route network, enhanced schedules and better connectivity. With the addition of 15 new markets this spring and summer, we now serve 74 cities across the Americas – offering more opportunities to conveniently fly to the places you want to go. We expect to integrate our reservations systems by November and will implement a phased approach to rebranding our operations to reflect our new identity over the next 12-18 months.

We've also established a new Web site, frontiermidwest.com, to share progress of our brand integration. We encourage you to visit frequently for additional information on the integration of the two loyalty programs.

*** Republic to merge Frontier/Midwest under Frontier Airlines brand

Republic Airways Holdings yesterday unveiled its decision to unite Milwaukee-based Midwest Airlines and Denver-based Frontier Airlines under the Frontier brand, a process it said should be completed by October 2011.

http://www.atwonline.com/news/story.html?storyID=20009

*** Spirit to levy fee for carryon bags; Ryanair pressing forward on pay toilets

http://ct.email.atwonline.com/rd/cts?d=33-87441-798-241-31257-5298921-0-0-0-1-2-166

*** Best Caribbean Islands for Families

http://www.frommers.com/micro/2010/the-perfect-caribbean-island/best-caribbean-islands-for-families.html

*** Have a Happy Meal in a Pagoda: McDonalds Invades Scenic China

The Most Shocking McDonald's Locations in The World

http://www.jaunted.com/tag/Most%20Shocking%20McDonalds

*** Quasar Nautica Expeditions’ M/S Alta strikes a reef and grounds at Puerto Ayora, on the southern coast of Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos, Ecuador.

http://www.adventuretravelnews.com/incident-involving-quasar-nautica-expeditions-ms-alta

*** Continental Airlines to charge extra for exit rows seats

http://www.cleveland.com/business/index.ssf/2010/03/continental_airlines_to_start.html

*** Oh, I get it. It was just a joke!

Alleged Shoe Bomber was Really Just Sarcastic Man Smoking on the Plane

http://www.jaunted.com/story/2010/4/8/0315/38924/travel/

Alleged+Shoe+Bomber+was+Really+Just+Sarcastic+Man+Smoking+on+the+Plane

No Charges for Qatar Diplomat After Mid-Air Bomb Scare

Authorities Say Mohammed al Modadi Told Air Marshals, 'I'm Lighting My Shoes on Fire'

http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/qatar-diplomat-charged-bomb-scare/story?id=10317771

Diplomat from Qatar involved in a security scare on a United Airlines flight last night being sent home

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601090&sid=aNW1nqbj1pHM

Ned Notes: A quick check of major English-language newspaper websites in Bahrain, Dubai and Qatar have no mention of this incident.

*** Wait, I have to pee again:

Simply put, GoGirl is the way to stand up to crowded, disgusting, distant or non-existent bathrooms. It’s a female urination device (sometimes called a FUD) that allows you to pee while standing up. It’s neat. It’s discreet. It’s hygienic.

Home

*** Make Sure You Match!

The name on your ticket and the name on your government-issued ID should match exactly, per TSA Travel Requirements.

http://www.tsa.gov/what_we_do/layers/secureflight/travelers.shtm

*** What Not To Do In Tokyo: The Top Five Tourist Mistakes

http://www.jaunted.com/story/2010/3/30/232342/392/travel/What+Not+To+Do+In+Tokyo%3A+The+Top+Five+Tourist+Mistakes

*** How to Survive (Almost) Anything: 14 Survival Skills

From National Geographic Adventure

http://adventure.nationalgeographic.com/2008/08/everyday-survival/laurence-gonzales-text

*** 5 Pet-Friendly Destinations in North America

http://www.frommers.com/trip_ideas/outdoor_and_adventure/article.cfm?ideaID=OUTDOOR&articleid=6706&t=5%20Pet%2DFriendly%20Destinations%20in%20North%20America

*** Full-body scanners haven’t found any explosives yet, but they are finding all kinds of other good stuff.

http://www.jaunted.com/story/2010/4/5/82714/12866/travel/The+TSA%27s+Full-Body+Scanners+Finding+More+Drugs+Than+Explosives

*** Machu Picchu Opens Following Two-month Closure

Machu Picchu, Peru’s legendary archaeological site officially reopened April 1st following a two-month closure due to flooding.

Machu Picchu Opens Following Two-month Closure

*** Dubai's 124th Floor Burj Khalifa Observation Deck Reopens; Tickets Still $109

http://www.jaunted.com/story/2010/4/5/14949/47389/travel/Dubai%27s+124th+Floor+Burj+Khalifa+Observation+Deck+Reopens%3B+Tickets+Still+%24109

*** Fliers’ Favorite Airport Freebie? Wi-Fi

Link to article in USA Today:

http://www.usatoday.com/travel/flights/2010-04-06-businesstravel06_ST_N.htm

*** Cycling Provides a Break for Some With Parkinson’s

By GINA KOLATA

Published: March 31, 2010

*** Conservation Alliance Contributes $400,000 in Grants to 15 Organizations

Conservation Alliance Contributes $400,000 in Grants to 15 Organizations

*** TSA Cracking Down on Bogus Baggage Claims

High-tech surveillance is saving cash, hassles.

Link to article in the Boston Herald:

http://www.bostonherald.com/news/regional/view/20100404tsa_cracking_down_on_bogus_baggage_claims_high-tech_surveillance_is_saving_cash_hassles/

*** Terry Tripler has compiled an awesome list of airlines and what they’ll do for you if a flight is cancelled.

http://www.rulestoknow.com/aview040610.htm

How Unbundling Fees Make Airlines a Bundle of Cash

By Christopher Elliott

Tribune Media Services

http://www.frommers.com/articles/6719.html

*** Trail volunteer opportunities

*** The Big Basin Volunteer Trail Crew (BBVTC)

The Trail Crew meets the second Saturday of each month at 9:00am in front of Big Basin State Park Headquarters, rain or shine. A typical workday lasts until mid afternoon. Participation is flexible, with most trail crew members working an average of six Saturdays a year.

The Big Basin Volunteer Trail Crew (BBVTC) began with the Santa Cruz Mountains Trail Association (SCMT), founded in 1969 under the guidance of Scout Leader Bob Kirsch, Sempervirens member Tony Look and the California State Parks. (The building of the Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail that year inaugurated Trail Days in the Santa Cruz Mountains).

The Big Basin Volunteer Trail Crew makes it possible for others to safely enjoy the beauty of Big Basin State Park. The BBVTC always needs volunteers dedicated to preserving this environment for present and future generations. Join the BBVTC for a unique perspective of Big Basin, a lively and productive experience with others who share a love of these redwood forests, and the satisfaction of participating in a vital part of the park's ability to educate and inspire the public!

http://www.bigbasintrailcrew.org/

*** Forest Park Conservancy Volunteer Trail Crew, Portland, Oregon

The Forest Park Conservancy coordinates the vast majority of trail maintenance in the park, and offers volunteer work parties each Thursday, and on the third Saturday of each month.

http://forestparkconservancy.org/trails/volunteer-trail-crew-1

*** The March YVNS sport Ned has never heard of: Haxey Hood

Haxey Hood is a strange game played out on 6 January each year on a field between the towns of Haxey and Westwoodside in North Lincolnshire, England. Each team tries to get the hood (usually a piece of rolled canvas or leather) to their own pub. What happens is a huge ruck and scrimmage with however many people have bothered to turn up to play for either side. The game doesn't really have any rules – although women and children don't usually play – or a time limit.

It involves four public houses in the parish, the Carpenters Arms, the Kings, The Loco and the Duke William, and singing three traditional songs in each establishment, Farmers Boy, John Barleycorn and Drink Old England Dry (Canons). The basic rules of the game are these; no one is allowed to run with the hood and no one is allowed to throw the hood, and the game consists of one large rugby type scrum or 'sway' in which the Hood is pushed or pulled or 'swayed' in the desired direction. The object being to manoeuvre the Hood into one of the four public houses in the parish, with the game officially ending when the Hood is touched by the pub landlord standing on the front step of his establishment. The landlord then takes possession of the Hood and proudly displays it for the following year.

http://www.isleofaxholme.net/haxey-hood.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haxey_Hood

*** YVNS Trivia:

In 1957, Mohawk Airlines flight attendant Ruth Carol Taylor became the first African-American flight attendant in the U.S. Why was dismissed six months later?

Ruth Carol Taylor was hired by Mohawk Airlines, becoming the first African-American flight attendant in the

United States. Only six months after breaking one historic barrier, Taylor's career ended due to another discriminatory

barrier: the airline's marriage ban, a common practice among airlines of the day of dismissing flight attendants who became either married or pregnant.

*** Travel/Adventure/Outdoors employment opportunities:

1.) Recreation Specialist, City of Colton, Colton, CA

http://los-angeles-jobs.jobfox.com/hospitality-tourism/spa-recreational-services/recreation-specialist/a9ad5add-b875-4aba-bf70-ad7984db3316

2.) Recreation Specialist (Outdoor Rec Programmer), Air Force Morale, Welfare & Recreation Center, Barksdale AFB, LA

http://jobview.usajobs.gov/GetJob.aspx?JobID=87066994

3.) Land Conservation Manager, Green Spaces Alliance of South Texas, San Antonio, Texas

http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/jobs/job_item.jhtml?id=289800029

4.) Recreation Aid (Lifeguard), Virgin Islands National Park, National Park Service, Department of the Interior, St. John, VI

http://jobview.usajobs.gov/GetJob.aspx?JobID=85625662

5.) Backcountry Instructor, Paintrock Leadership Challenge, Mann Gulch, MT and Thermopolis WY

Backcountry Guides lead 13-day travel experiences with small groups of teens. Trips include 7-days backpacking in remote sections of the Big Horn Mountains in Wyoming. The position is physically demanding. Success requires insightful facilitation and dynamic leadership to promote positive relationships, sharpening of leadership skills, and connecting trip-related challenges to skills needed for success in college, work, and life.

Position begins May 20th and ends August 28th or Sept. 4th.

Responsibilities

Travel with groups along a 7-day, 35-mile backpacking route

Facilitate activity sessions (rock climbing, rappelling, fishing, etc.)

Lead visits to Mann Gulch, MT and Thermopolis WY

Manage risks; comply with safety protocols; involve youth in building a safety-conscious culture

Facilitate structured curriculum

Assist with logistical support (transportation, packing food, issuing gear)

Minimum Requirements

21 years old; some college experience

Experience in working with youth

Experience leading trips similar in scope

Wilderness First Responder (WFR)

Ability to carry a 55-pound backpack over rugged terrain up to 12 hours a day for 7 days

Commitment to Leave No Trace ethics

Clean driving record

Drug-free

How to Apply:

To apply for employment with the C5 Bridges Program,

please send a completed application to:

Zack Terakedis

C5 Bridges Director

zackt@c5yf.org

404-558-3339

Application is available at Employment Application.

Please fill it out completely and attach it to your email.

If you have additional questions, please contact Zack Terakedis any time.

http://c5yf.org/c/c5/content.asp?C=158&ID=1937

“Walking isn't a lost art – one must, by some means, get to the garage.”

– Evan Esar

*** Your Very Next Step is a service of the Job of the Week Network LLC

Edward Lundquist, ABC –

Editor and Publisher

Your Very Next Step

7813 Richfield Road

Springfield, VA 22153

Home office phone: (703) 455-7661

lundquist989@cs.com

www.nedsjotw.com

Subscribe for free. Send a blank email to:

yourverynextstep-subscribe@topica.com.

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Your Very Next Step newsletter for March 2010

Neds Job of the Week 03/29/2010

[0] comments

Your Very Next Step newsletter for March 2010

” If you are walking to seek, ye shall find.”

– Sommeil Liberosensa

“An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.”

-Henry David Thoreau

“A journey is a person in itself; no two are alike. And all plans, safeguards, policing, and coercion are fruitless. We find that after years of struggle that we do not take a trip; a trip takes us.”

– John Steinbeck

“Who lives sees much. Who travels sees more.”

— Arab proverb

(Thanks to Kim Perz)

The next adventure begins with your very next step.

“Your Very Next Step” newsletter, published by Ned Lundquist, is a cooperative community, and everyone is invited, no…encouraged, no…urged to participate.

Subscribe for free. Send a blank email to:

yourverynextstep-subscribe@topica.com.

Send us your comments, questions, and contributions to lundquist989@cs.com.

You are now among 646 subscribers.

Contact Ned at lundquist989@cs.com.

*** In this issue:

*** Travel News

*** Where Ned has been

*** Trail volunteer opportunities

*** YVNS Sport Ned Has Never Heard Of: Sepak Takraw

*** Travel, Outdoor and Adventure Jobs and Volunteer Opportunities

1.) Beach Operations Manager BBC, Boca Raton Resort & Club, Boca Raton, FL

2.) Co-Executive Director, Audubon Center of the North Woods, Sandstone, Minnesota 3.) SEABIRD RESEARCH ASSISTANT, Bering Sea Integrated Ecosystem Research Program, St. Paul Island, Pribilofs, Alaska

4.) ROLLER HOCKEY COUNSELOR, CAMP WAH-NEE , Torrington, CT

5.) Manager of International Public Relations, California Travel & Tourism Commission, Sacramento, California

6.) Summer Internship – Applied Mental Conditioning, Evert Tennis Academy, Boca Raton, FL

7.) Summer of Service Corpsmember, Mile High Youth Corps, Denver, Colorado

8.) Rope Course Facilitator, Friendship Ventures, Annandale, Minnesota

9.) Director of Communications, Mohonk Preserve, New Paltz, New York

10.) Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator, Santa Clara County Open Space Authority, San Jose, CA

…and much more…and it’s all FREE!!!

*** Do you have a travel adventure to share?

Send me your stories and I’ll post in the “Your Very Next Step” and on the YVNS website (http://www.yourverynextstep.com/).

*** There were massive air travel delays over the holidays, from weather to airport lockdowns. Did you experience this? Can you share your story with YVNS?

*** Here’s the YVNS Travel News for March:

2010 Cherry Blossom Festival March 27 – April 11

Plan your visit: Festival highlights

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/special/gog/cherry-blossom-festival-2010/index.html?wpisrc=nl_buzz

The Top Five Places to See Cherry Blossoms…Other Than Washington DC

http://www.jaunted.com/story/2010/3/24/0526/80017/travel/The+Top+Five+Places+to+See+Cherry+Blossoms…Other+Than+Washington+DC

Turn Signal Bike Jacket

Link to article and video on GreenMuze:

http://www.greenmuze.com/green-your/fashion/2252-turn-signal-bike-jacket-.html

Five Airlines Apply To Provide First U.S.-Tokyo Haneda Service In Decades

http://www.btnonline.com/businesstravelnews/headlines/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1004068458

*** Republic Airways plans 'unified' brand, may drop Midwest name

By Tom Daykin of the Milwakee Journal Sentinel

http://www.jsonline.com/business/85502612.html

*** From Rodger Dana:

This is pretty extraordinary.

Bring up the map, mouse over an airport,

instant readout of WX conditions. You can also select just ARTCC

(Air Route Traffic Control Centers) sectors.

http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/zoa/mwmap3.php?map=usa

*** Airline In-Flight WiFi Guide

http://www.jaunted.com/story/2009/12/17/03742/540/travel/Jaunted%27s+2009+Airline+In-Flight+WiFi+Guide

*** Airlines, passengers squabble over baggage fees – washingtonpost.com

Feb 18, 2010 … Why does flying these days come with so much baggage?

www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/…/AR2010021805637.html

*** Women to get dedicated lavatory on many ANA flights http://r.smartbrief.com/resp/uIaUlKAVibdmwBCicfdpCicNnToB?format=standard

*** Japanese carrier All Nippon Airways plans to reserve one restroom for women only on most international flights starting next month. ANA is basing the change on a survey showing that 90% of women like the idea of a single-sex lavatory.

http://www.cnn.com/2010/TRAVEL/02/24/women.only.lavatory.ana/index.html

Japan Airline to Offer Women-only Toilets

*** GPS Guiding Blind Man on Appalachian Trail

Link to Scripps Howard News Service article:

http://www.suntimes.com/news/nation/2087391,CST-NWS-hike07.article

*** From Benie Wagenblast's TCN News:

The Future of Airplane Service: Text chat with other passengers?

Seatback touch-screens can and will offer a variety of services.

Link to video on ZDNet: http://news.zdnet.com/2422-19177_22-405374.html

*** BA, Lufthansa Allow Roundtrip Tickets Combining Fare Classes

Lufthansa and British Airways earlier this month introduced the ability to combine fare classes on the same return ticket, each carrier confirmed to BTN this week. Each airline said its new pricing policies would allow corporate travelers to save money by specifying the flexibility they require for each leg of their trip. For example, travelers can choose a cheap, nonrefundable fare class for the outbound leg but a fully flexible class for the inbound one.

http://www.btnonline.com/businesstravelnews/headlines/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1004077911

*** Allegiant to add second aircraft type as Hawaii beckons

Allegiant Air parent Allegiant Travel Co. will add six 757-200s to a fleet currently comprised entirely of MD-80s in order to “expand its leisure travel strategy” with nonstop flights to Hawaii.

http://www.atwonline.com/news/story.html?storyID=19633

*** Hawaii will be newest destination for budget airline Allegiant

Budget carrier would bring visitors from smaller Mainland cities

By Alan Yonan Jr.

Advertiser Staff Writer

http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/20100306/NEWS09/3060345/Hawaii-will-be-newest-destination-for-budget-airline-Allegiant

*** Where has Ned been:

After returning from Korea last month, the Lundquist Family enjoyed a vacation at the Marriott Ko Olina Beach Club Resort (http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/hnlko-marriotts-ko-olina-beach-club/) on the leeward side of Oahu, and did the kinds of things that tourists do when they come to Hawaii. We walked around the Foster Botanical Gardens; went on a whale watch cruise off Waikiki and saw humpbacks and spinner dolphins and flying fish; took a boat ride out to the USS Arizona Memorial and stood above the 1,177 Sailors still aboard her; and went out to the Polynesian Cultural Center (http://www.polynesia.com/) to see the different cultures that make up Polynesia, their similarities and their distinctive differences. Laura was born in Hawaii, and so we enjoyed some of the things that kamaaina do because they live here, like eat hot malasadas from Leonard’s Bakery (http://www.leonardshawaii.com/), or manapua from Ho Ho Chinese Cuisine (http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/37/410893/restaurant/Hawaii/West-Oahu/Ho-Ho-Chinese-Cuisine-Kapolei).

Our flight to Hawaii started from Washington Ronald Reagan National Airport via Alaska Air non-stop to Los Angeles. I purchased a 30-day membership in the Delta Sky Club so we could relax there before our flight. Alaska is on the other side of the airport from Delta, so we had to shuttle all the way over to the Delta gates and check through security again. We then ensconced ourselves in the Sky Club for a few hours until our flight to Honolulu. We didn’t receive a meal on either flight.

On the flight to Atlanta I sat next to a pastor who was celebrating his 42nd wedding anniversary by bringing the grandkids to Hawaii.

Our Delta flight to Atlanta on the return was delayed three hours because of a mechanical issue with the auxiliary power unit. We had a tight transfer as it was – 50 minutes – for our connection to DCA. When the A330 took off we didn’t know which connection we would be on, or when we would get home, and I had a flight later that day out of the country so I was a bit nervous. When we arrived we raced all the way from the far end of the E concourse to the other end of the A concourse of the world’s busiest airport. The next flight to DC was at 11:20 and we knew we wouldn’t get on. We were “rebooked” on a 4:20 flight, which would have got us into DC at 6, and home by 7 or so. I had to head out Dulles for a flight to Kuwait at 10:15 that evening.

We were on the standby list for the 11:20 departure…in fact, we were number one on the standby list of 78 names. Yes we got on, along with an Army 0-5 coming home from Afghanistan for a week with his family. He got a seat in first class.

(I’m not sure why we were number one. Maybe because the moment our flight from Honolulu was delayed we went on that list?)

When we arrived in DC, three of our four bags arrived with us. My bag (with stuff I needed for my next trip), did not.

That evening I took a cab to Dulles, and checked in for Kuwait and Bahrain. I pulled myself together at the Red Carpet Club, which is a nice perk. I would have used some of my miles to upgrade but UA wanted 30,000 miles AND $450! Sorrrrry, but that’s no good deal.

The flight to Kuwait was maybe half full. I had a huge selection of about five movies, some channels which didn’t work.

At Kuwait, my Star Alliance Elite status didn’t get me into the lounge because my next flight was on Gulf Air, with whom I did not enjoy elite status. But I could pay to stay. I said no at first, pondered my long layover, reconsidered and went back, because I could eat, relax, check email, apart from the throngs milling about below, all for about the cost of dinner.

I arrived at Bahrain and took a cab to my hotel. Just about every hotel in town was booked, and those rooms that were available were subjected to a “special event” pricing that pushed rooms to twice or three times the usual cost, if not more.

Why? Because, as it turned out, the Gulf Air Formula One race was that same weekend.

http://www.formula1.com/races/in_detail/bahrain_824/circuit_diagram.html

I checked into the Novotel Al Dana Resort in Bahrain.

http://www.novotel.com/gb/hotel-3600-novotel-al-dana-resort-bahrain/index.shtml

It was very pleasant, with a view of the water and an inviting pool I didn’t have time to enjoy. The buffet breakfast was very good.

I was picked up at my hotel by LTJG Jenn Womble, who helped me draw my Kevlar vest and helmet from Supply for my foray up north. By mid-afternoon we were at the Navy Air Detachment on the cargo ramp area of the Bahrain International Airport, where we could see the Mercedes F1 team cars ready for air shipment to the next race. I flew a Navy C-12 to Ali Al Salem Air Base outside of Kuwait City along with Rear Adm. Scott Jones and his party.

Upon arrival in Kuwait we taxied to the flight line and I could see huge shelters for aircraft that date back before the Iraqi invasion of Kuwat. The bunkers were impenetrable, according to the French who built them. These shelters were captured along with the base by the Iraqis and used for their combat aircraft. However, the U.S. JDAM “bunker buster” bombs neatly took out each one and they stand their today, opened up and unrepaired, testimony to the power and accuracy of these weapons.

From Ali Al Salem we had an Army H-60 Blackhawk take us the Umm Qasr Navy Base, home of the Iraqi Navy. Along the way I could look down and see the occasional tents of Kuwaitis “camping” in the desert with their sheep, camels, mobile homes and 4-wheel drive vehicles. We flew over military camps like Camp Virginia, Camp Buehring and Camp Bucca, and in the darkness we could see a convoy with many dozens of vehicles with their blinking yellow lights on top winding through the desert.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camp_Buehring

Camp Bucca was until recently a prison.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camp_Bucca

Camp Virginia:

http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/facility/camp-virginia.htm

Ali Al Salem Air Base

http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/facility/ali-al-salem.htm

Umm Qasr:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Umm_Qasr

I stayed at the Iraq Training Advisory Mission at Umm Qasr, a small compound within the Iraqi Naval base here. It is truly a joint operation, with U.S. Navy, Army Marines and Coast Guard, along with Royal Navy and Marines, and contract security specialists from Uganda. I had a chance to go on patrol with the Iraqis. While we didn’t board anyone on this day (the previous patrol boarded four ships), we did stop some fishermen who had placed their nets in the middle of the channel.

The base here is growing, as is the size and proficiency of the Iraqi Navy. A large area is being reclaimed from the Khawr Abd Allah waterway for the base. New ships are being built in the U.S. The port is important to Iraq, as its other main waterway, the Shatt al Arab up to Basra and beyond is Iraq on one side and Iran on the other, and not safe for travel. Umm Qasr is at the border with Kuwait. While the war is over, the Kuwaitis can be forgiven if they are mistrustful.

The people I talked to at Umm Qasr understand why they are here, and the importance of the mission. On simplest terms, it means the Iraqis can take over the security mission for the two major oil transfer terminals in the Northern Arabian Gulf, through which some 90 percent of Iraq’s gross domestic product passes. These platforms have been attacked many times before, through several wars, and are tempting terrorist targets, not to mention right next to Iran and waters patrolled by the IRGCN. But this navy and its capability mean much more. Nations live by maritime commerce. The independence of this navy means the independence of Iraq.

I was supposed to travel down the Khawr Abd Allah waterway to the oil platforms and transfer to USS Russell, where the Desert Hawk helo would take me back to Bahrain. We were to leave at 0600, and Rear Adm. Scott Jones managed to brew some Starbucks coffee and pour it into a “to go” cup for me. (http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?v=photos&ref=profile&id=594469602#!/photo.php?pid=5015058&op=1&o=global&view=global&subj=594469602&id=594469602)

But The Iraqi patrol boat – also carrying Iraqi Marines to swap out with those currently on duty at the oplats – developed engine trouble and had to return. I was being accompanied by several Royal Navy and Royal Marine shipmates. We waited for status and thought we would get underway in time to make the three-hour journey to meet the helo. If I missed the Thursday helo, there wouldn’t be another until Sunday, and so I would be “stuck” on one of the platforms for several days. I’m sure I would have made the most of it, but I’ve done that story, and I needed to get to Bahrain to do the stories I had set out to do.

So I went along with a few dozen U.S. Marines traveling overland by convoy to Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait to catch a flight back home after completing their time in Iraq. (http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?v=photos&ref=profile&id=594469602#!/photo.php?pid=5018294&id=594469602) I’m glad I did it. I’m glad I saw the desert, and it’s bleak sameness (easy to see how convoys like the one Jessica Lynch was a part of could get lost); and the sandstorm that developed, and slamming on brakes to avoid hitting camels. There was no a/c in our vehicle, and I sat on top of something that was hot to the touch. But I didn’t complain, because the Marines have to put up with much worse, all the time.

At Ali Al Salem there is a big “Outbound” tent, and “Inbound” tent, and liaison officer tent, to help people coming and going. That is, if you are supposed to be there. I wasn’t really supposed to be there, per se. So I ended up calling my travel agent in Annapolis, booking a flight, getting a seat on a bus to Kuwait City, stashing my gear for a while, grabbing some chow (Mexican night), getting my lap top and going to the USO to hook up on the wi-fi (unable to do so), get my gear, go to where the bus is departing, explain to the people why I am there, get on the bus, and take a very convoluted drive to the terminal, with the curtains shut the entire time.

At the airport, carrying my gear, including my body armor and helmet, everyone seemed to know where I should go, except the many people who had no idea where I should go. All of them would be wrong. After back and forth, up and down many times, I found Gulf Air’s check-in counters would reopen at 0530. So, I headed to Starbucks, and settled down from 11:30 p.m. until 5:30 the next morning.

As I checked in the next morning I had my Kevlar gear wrapped in plastic. My flight to Bahrain was pleasant. My 14-day visa was no good upon arriving in Bahrain, so I had to get another one. I caught a cab to the Marriott (http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/baher-marriott-executive-apartments-manama-bahrain/), and my driver shook me down for a few extra dinars.

I was a little late checking in, seeing as I was supposed to be there the night before. My room was huge, truly an apartment. Two bedrooms, three toilets, two bidets. That’s more bidet capacity than I’ll ever need. I slept for the rest of the morning. Woke up. Felt tired and slept until evening. Drifted off. Around 11 p.m. I went down to see if I could get something to eat, but the restaurant closed at 11. So I went back to my room and fell asleep until 6:30 a.m. That’s a lot of sleep for me.

The next morning I had breakfast at the Marriott Sky-Walk café, which is on the ground floor, and later Jenn Womble and I had lunch at the Century International Restaurant in Adliya. The food was very good, a fusion of Chinese, Indian and Middle Eastern. Jenn and I also checked out the Gold Market and souk, where I was outfitted in the very sharp attire you see here: http://www.nedsjotw.com/blog/_archives/2010/3/20/4485292.html.

The next day, Sunday (my last day), I turned in my helmet and vest, visited USS Scout and USS Sirocco at Mina Sulman, and conducted several interviews, including Capt. Don Hodge, the commander of CTF 53, and Rear Adm. Sinclair Harris, who commands Expeditionary Strike Group FIVE.

Jenn took me to the airport where I was able to check in with ease, and wait for my flight back up to Kuwait. My gate was next to the smoking lounge. At bording time, there were some men who were absolutely hell bent on getting ahead of me and onto the plane. I had to move out of the way to let one of them get around me, and managed to sort of lose my balance but gave him a body check into the boards when I recovered. The purser had to admonish him (not me) to slow down. Guess who sat next to me? And when we arrived in Kuwait, the plane had not even finished taxiing before he and many others had unbuckled their seat belts and jumped into the aisle to jockey for position. They were all crunched up in an incredible jam as we waited for the busses to take us to the terminal. I sat comfortably until then and watched them all pressed together. I don’t get it. In Kuwait I checked back into the Damsan VIP lunge, but had issues with email again. So I read, ate, relaxed, and then went to the gate to board for Washington Dulles. I had one of those special video screens that came up from the arm rest. It fell off in my hand. So I moved to another row. The plane was half full and was able to relax, sleep, and read my book (Bruce Catton’s On Hallowed Ground).

Back at work on Tuesday, with new 834 email messages awaiting me.

*** Rails-to-Trails Conservancy:

On Thursday, April 1st, join Rails-to-Trails Conservancy as we volunteer with Casey Trees to plant trees in Washington, D.C.'s Eckington neighborhood immediately adjacent to the Metropolitan Branch Trail (MBT). As spring begins to bloom and the trail nears completion, help us bring more green to the neighborhoods along the MBT!

Where: New York Pizza, 2 Florida Avenue, NE, Washington, D.C.

At the corner of Florida Avenue and North Capitol Street, NE

Closest Metro: New York Avenue (Red Line)

When: 8:30 a.m., Thursday, April 1, 2010

Questions? Contact Carol Herwig, Casey Trees Volunteer Coordinator (cherwig@caseytrees.org or 202.349.1907)

Rain or shine! Dress for the weather; wear durable, close-toed shoes and bring your own water bottle. Tools and instruction are provided, along with light refreshments. This event will occur rain or shine unless the weather is severe. Cancellations will be posted on the voicemail at 202.833.4010 by 7:30 a.m. the morning of the event.

After planting is done, join us for an informal walking tour of the trail and learn more about what's in store this spring and summer.

Questions? Contact Carol Herwig, Casey Trees Volunteer Coordinator (cherwig@caseytrees.org or 202.349.1907)

After planting is done, join us for an informal walking tour of the trail and learn more about what's in store this spring and summer.

*** Trail volunteer opportunities

See the full 2010 schedules of Appalachian Mountain Club “Volunteer Vacations”

Get out, get dirty, and give back! Each year the AMC depends on more than 2,500 trail volunteers who contribute their time, energy, and enthusiasm to the Trails Program.

http://www.outdoors.org/conservation/trails/volunteer/trailopps/vol-crews-schedule.cfm

*** The Colorado Trail Foundation

We care for The Colorado Trail. The Colorado Trail Foundation (CTF) is the organization that keeps the Trail in good condition. We organize the Volunteers who built The Colorado Trail and who continue to improve and maintain it. CTF Trail Crews are weekend to week-long summer Trail work efforts with a team of around twenty volunteers accomplishing Trail improvements. Adopt-A-Trail is our program where Volunteer Adopters and Helpers do annual maintenance on a particular segment. The Colorado Trail Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization funded almost entirely by private contributions. Our “Friends” are the giving people who volunteer and/or contribute.

http://www.coloradotrail.org/crews.html

http://www.coloradotrail.org/aat.html

*** DCR Natural Heritage Program Improves Hiking Trails at the Pinnacles

Over 6000 ft of new Virginia Wildlife and Birding Trail (MSP02) trail was added to the Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve's trail system. As part of the Virginia Natural Area Preserve System this preserve offers over six miles of trails which are ideal for hiking, fishing, birding, and wildflower viewing while offering spectacular views. Bill Dingus, Dept. of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), Division of Natural Heritage Southwest Operations Steward, invites hikers to, ” Bring a picnic lunch and take a walk over the suspension bridge that crosses Big Cedar Creek and puts you on the path to trails that lead to the Big Falls, ridge top walks, views of the Pinnacle Rock, and the Clinch River. A wide array of wildlife can be seen; from small woodland invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals to larger creatures such as: Great blue herons, ruffed grouse and whitetail deer, but the things that make the Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve really special are its unique ecological communities and geological features, and rare plants and animals.”

Cameras and field guides are great items to bring along. Two new trails to hike are the Grapevine Hill Trail and The Spring Falls Trail. The Grapevine Hill Trail was constructed with grant funds from DCR's Virginia Recreational Trails Fund. The trail climbs up from Big Cedar Creek, takes you along Copper Ridge, and leads you down to the Big Falls Area. The Spring Falls Trail was constructed with the help of the Friends of the Pinnacle Volunteer Stewardship Committee and leads you through bird rich old fields to the beautiful Spring Falls on Big Cedar Creek.

The Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve is owned and managed by the DCR Division of Natural Heritage. The Natural Heritage Program represents a comprehensive effort to save Virginia's native plant and animal life and the ecosystems upon which they depend through inventory, conservation information, protection and stewardship. As a member of NatureServe, the Virginia Natural Heritage Program contributes to an understanding of global biodiversity and helps to provide for the conservation and recovery of the earth's common, and rare and endangered species and threatened ecosystems, rare plants and animals.

http://www.dgif.virginia.gov/outdoor-report/2010/03/24/#green-tips-for-outdoor-enthusiasts

*** Airport Lounges:

With my newly achieved Star Alliance Gold status, I can use Star Alliance lounges when I travel on Star Alliance trips abroad. Although the United site is not really helpful, this Lufthansa application is quite useful:

http://www.lufthansa.com/online/portal/lh/us/info_and_services/at_the_airport/lounges?l=en&nodeid=1678885&ctest=101312668293

*** The March YVNS sport Ned has never heard of: Sepak Takraw

Sepak Takraw is an exciting fast paced sport that looks like a combination of volleyball, soccer and gymnastics. The sport in popular in Asia, though it is gradually spreading throughout the world.

Each team has three players on the court at one time, played on a court with net height and size similar to those used in badminton. The rules are very similar to volleyball, except that using the hands is not permitted, and each player can touch the ball only once before it is hit over the net. The ball can be returned over the net using any part of the body except for the arm from the shoulder to the point of the finger.

Not being able to use the arms means that there are spectacular jumps and flips to attempt to kick the ball over the net

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sepak_takraw

http://www.sepaktakraw.org/

http://www.topendsports.com/sport/unusual/sepak-takraw.htm

http://www.topendsports.com/videos/tag/sepak-takraw/

*** Travel/Adventure/Outdoors employment opportunities:

*** From Mark Sofman:

1.) Beach Operations Manager BBC, Boca Raton Resort & Club, Boca Raton, FL

Position Summary:

Oversee the total operation and have the ability to fill in when necessary in any position and maintain a cohesive operation at all times

1. Must be able to be the liaison between members, Resort guests, and Club management. It is important that the Manager interact with the members and guests to promote good will, public relations, and stability and also be informational.

2. To aid in implementation of the Premier membership rules and regulations as they apply to this operation while maintaining sensitivity to “political situations.”

3. Must be able to be the “cabana specialist.” In an effort to create a stable identity to the position, all aspects of the cabana operation, including Butler staff, would be managed by the Manager.

4. Assigning all annual and summer rental contracts as well as daily rental consumptions including marketing of the same.

5. Responsible for all revenue generated in connection with the cabana operation including all record keeping, posting procedures and gratuity disbursements.

6. Responsible for all revenue generated in rental consumptions including the marketing of the same.

7. Maintaining cabana charts and tracking daily, weekly, monthly and annual usage and revenue per cabana.

8. The Manager would prepare written confirmations and general member correspondence.

9. Must be personally responsible for all coordination of convention and special event activity. This should be accomplished by working closely with meeting planners and convention sales personnel as well directing the Cabana Butlers with these various functions.

10. The Manager in concert with the Assistant manager or Beach Club Operations will oversee sub departments within the cabana area.

11. The Manager should maintain a professional atmosphere at all times.

12. The manager should hold a weekly staff meeting with the Cabana Office personnel and supervisors of all departments.

13. The Manager should attend weekly department head staff meeting conducted by the Manager of the BBC (Wednesday morning) as well as attend a weekly Managers meeting at the CVT (Thursday morning).

14. Must be able to lift 50 pounds.

15. Perform other related duties as assigned or requested by supervisors/managers.

Required Skills:

Three-year minimum Management experience. Must be able to supervise, direct and manage a staff of 30 to 40 employees at once in multi locations. Computer skills, Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, HIS. Must be able to sit, stand, stoop, or bend for duration of shift [at least (8) hours].

Preferred Skills:

Some college education. Hotel/Resort experience from similar quality and size property would be added plus.

To apply: https://luxuryresorts.ats.hrsmart.com/cgi-bin/a/highlightjob.cgi?jobid=13442

2.) Co-Executive Director, Audubon Center of the North Woods, Sandstone, Minnesota

http://www.execsearches.com/non-profit-jobs/jobDetail.asp?job_id=19986

*** From Pat Valdata:

Hi, Ned.

Here’s a position for the adventurous. Hope all the snow has melted at your house.

Pat

3.) SEABIRD RESEARCH ASSISTANT, Bering Sea Integrated Ecosystem Research Program, St. Paul Island, Pribilofs, Alaska

Research assistant is needed for the seabird telemetry project of the Bering Sea Integrated Ecosystem Research Program at St. Paul Island, Pribilofs, Alaska. The duration for the position is between June 20 and August 30, 2010. Work duties during the nesting season include capturing/recapturing thick-billed murres and black-legged kittiwakes for attaching GPS, data loggers and geolocators, collecting blood and diet samples, doing behavioral observations, and data entry.

Candidates must be in good physical condition, have a strong interest in both seabird and foraging behavior, be willing to live on remote islands, and spend several hours observing birds in cold conditions. Previous experience with ATVs, bleeding and processing of blood samples, handling/capturing birds (noose poles, snare traps), fish identification and behavioural observations is preferred. A stipend of $2,500/month, plus travel costs within US and food expenses in the field are provided. If interested, please send resume, contact information of references (email/phone) and a cover letter to Rosana Paredes at mailto:u92rp@mun.ca.

Applications will be considered until positions are filled, early applications are preferred.

Rosana Paredes, Ph.D.

Post-doctoral Research Associate

Oregon Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit Department of Fisheries and Wildlife

104 Nash Hall

Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR 97331-3803

Phone/fax: (250) 652 0717

E-mail: u92rp@mun.ca

4.) ROLLER HOCKEY COUNSELOR, CAMP WAH-NEE , Torrington, CT

CAMP WAH-NEE SLEEPAWAY SUMMER CAMP SEEKING ROLLER HOCKEY COUNSELOR

Wah-Nee is a co-ed (camper age 8- 15) premier camp located in the Berkshires of northwestern CT. We have a diverse program although our focus is on sports. Looking for spirited, fun, down to earth people with a strong hockey background(we play roller hockey). Our staff has as much fun as our campers do, all in a magnificent country setting overlooking a beautiful lake. Our season runs from June 26 to August 14, (one session). All staff lives in camp for the session. Great memories are waiting to be made! Contact Harvey Mandell (director) at harvcamp@aol.com website; www.wahnee.com

http://www.wahnee.com/wstaff/index.html

5.) Manager of International Public Relations, California Travel & Tourism Commission, Sacramento, California

http://jobs.prnewsonline.com/c/job.cfm?site_id=1691&jb=6512154

6.) Summer Internship – Applied Mental Conditioning, Evert Tennis Academy, Boca Raton, FL

http://www.istadia.com/jobs/myjobsiS0298

7.) Summer of Service Corpsmember, Mile High Youth Corps, Denver, Colorado

Mile High Youth Corps is hiring Summer of Service Corpsmembers. Corpsmembers work on a crew with 8-10 of their peers and complete land conservation projects like tree planting, park maintenance, trail building, landscaping, fire mitigation and noxious weed removal.

Benefits of being a SOS Corpsmember:

– Earn money for college – Corpsmembers receive an AmeriCorps Education Award

– Work outside

– Work with a team of people your age

– Learn about land conservation

– Make an impact on your community

– Gain new skills: great opportunity for individuals interested in: natural resource management; fire management; environmental science; and forest services

There are three key requirements to become a Corpsmember: 1. In the age range – 18-24 years old for; 2. Currently enrolled in high school or have completed a HS Diploma or GED; 3. Interested in working outside, learning about the environment and making a positive contribution to community.

How to apply:

Stop-by our office: 1801 Federal Blvd.

Go online: www.milehighyouthcorps.org

Email: youthjobs@mhyc.net

Call: 303-433-1206 opt. 1, ext. 325

8.) Rope Course Facilitator, Friendship Ventures, Annandale, Minnesota, United States

http://bit.ly/d5iqzl

9.) Director of Communications, Mohonk Preserve, New Paltz, New York

Mohonk Preserve, New York’s largest member & visitor supported nature preserve is seeking a senior management team member to oversee communications program. Candidate has a collaborative management style; minimum 5 years experience in public relations, marketing and communications; supervisory experience. Demonstrated success in organizational branding, marketing or creating a consistent message and in reaching or engaging new audiences is preferred. Experience working with Board members, donors, volunteers, media, the public; has exemplary written, oral, presentation skills; successful meeting deadlines. The Director will represent and promote the Preserve’s mission through newsletter, press release, and speech writing ability as well as website editing and management, and social media networking e.g. Facebook, etc. Excellent computer skills required including proficiency in Microsoft Word and Outlook or similar email applicatio n; strong Internet skills. Bachelor’s degree required (Master’s preferred). Occasional irregular hours, including some weekends or evenings; driver’s license required. Salary: mid-$40s based on exp.

For position details: http://www.mohonkpreserve.org/index.php?jobs-internship

Application Instructions

Hard copy resumes preferred. Submit letter & resume by April 9 to: Executive Director, Mohonk Preserve, P.O. Box 715, New Paltz, NY 12561. Applications also accepted via email to employment@mohonkpreserve.org (Word 97 and above or Adobe PDF only)

http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/jobs/job_item.jhtml?id=176100049

10.) Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator, Santa Clara County Open Space Authority, San Jose, CA

The Santa Clara County Open Space Authority is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated, full-time Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator to organize, coordinate and manage the agency’s volunteer program and outreach and event schedule.

The Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator facilitates the Open Space Authority’s growing community engagement efforts by providing trained, enthusiastic volunteers to various OSA programs. The Open Space Authority provides opportunities for members of the public to volunteer for the agency in the areas of community outreach, interpretive programs, resource management, administration, and for special events. The Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator works closely with other OSA staff members in charge of programs that require the use of volunteers.

Qualifications: The Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator must have and display strong communication skills; have the ability to work with minimal direction and to use independent judgment with the resourcefulness to make sound decisions, give meticulous attention to detail, multitask and handle multiple priorities; have the ability to create programming, recruit and motivate volunteers; be organized and efficient; have experience using Microsoft Office Suite programs, understanding of database systems and the ability to use the internet effectively for research, promotion, recruitment and other tasks.

Typically, a candidate would possess a minimum of 2 years of college coursework with an emphasis on program management or a related field and a minimum of 3 years of experience in supervision and management of volunteer programs. Public agency experience is a plus.

How To Apply : Official Authority Application & DMV Record are required. Please do not substitute a resume for the information requested on the application. First review of applications will occur the week of March 15, 2010. For more information or to download an application, visit our website at www.openspaceauthority.org.

Agency: Santa Clara County Open Space Authority Contact Name: Lauren Crook

Apply to:

6980 Santa Teresa Blvd, #100

San Jose CA, 95119 Contact Email: hr@openspaceauthority.org

Contact Phone: 408-224-7476

“Walking isn't a lost art – one must, by some means, get to the garage.”

– Evan Esar

*** Your Very Next Step is a service of the Job of the Week Network LLC

Edward Lundquist, ABC –

Editor and Publisher

Your Very Next Step

7813 Richfield Road

Springfield, VA 22153

Home office phone: (703) 455-7661

lundquist989@cs.com

www.nedsjotw.com

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Posted in Main Page, Your Very Next Step Newsletter | Leave a comment

Joint Security Area, Pam Mun Jom, looking north into DPRK

Neds Job of the Week 02/15/2010

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Posted in Korea 2010 | Leave a comment

Your Very Next Step newsletter for February 2010

Neds Job of the Week 02/15/2010

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Your Very Next Step newsletter for February 2010

“When you examine the lives of the most influential people who have ever

walked among us, you discover one thread that winds through them all.

They have been aligned first with their spiritual nature and only then

with their physical selves.”

– Albert Einstein

“Accordingly, since nothing prevents the earth from moving, I suggest

that we should now consider also whether several motions suit it, so

that it can be regarded as one of the planets. For, it is not the center

of all the revolutions.”

– Nicolaus Copernicus

The next adventure begins with your very next step.

“Your Very Next Step” newsletter, published by Ned Lundquist, is a

cooperative community, and everyone is invited, no.encouraged, no.urged

to participate.

Subscribe for free. Send a blank email to:

yourverynextstep-subscribe@topica.com.

Send us your comments, questions, and contributions to

lundquist989@cs.com.

You are now among 645 subscribers.

Contact Ned at lundquist989@cs.com.

*** In this issue:

*** Ned visits the “Land of the Morning calm”

*** Travel News

*** OpSki and Sno!!!Jam

*** 2010 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Book

*** Rental Car conundrum:

*** Trail volunteer opportunities – Superior Hiking Trail Association

*** ADOPT-A-MILE – Tahoe Rim Trail

*** YVNS “Sport Ned Has Never Heard Of”

– Chuckwagon Racing

*** Travel, Outdoor and Adventure Jobs and Volunteer Opportunities

.and much more.and it's all FREE!!!

*** Do you have a travel adventure to share?

Send me your stories and I'll post in the “Your Very Next Step” and on

the YVNS website (http://www.yourverynextstep.com/).

*** There were massive air travel delays over the holidays, from

weather to airport lockdowns. Did you experience this? Can you share

your story with YVNS?

*** Ned is offering free 468×60 pixel .jpg banner ads at the YVNS

website for conservation organizations (Ned will decline this offer to

organizations that conduct or promote illegal activities). Contact Ned

at lundquist989@cs.com for details. Well, actually, those are the

details. 468×60 pixel .jpg. or gif. With your url. And it's free.

*** Ned's recent adventure:

I flew from San Diego to LAX on American Eagle. There was a three-hour

layover for my connection. In San Diego, we had to board a passenger in

a wheel chair, then get her off the plane and into the shuttle bus. On

my flight from LAX to ICN I watched the KAL flight to Narita boarding.

After many “last call” announcements, the lady in the wheel chair at the

commuter terminal arrived for Flt 2 just after the flight closed. I

don't know where she was hanging out, but she hopped out of that chair

and was steaming mad. She had to make other arrangements.

Incheon International Airport claims to be the best airport in the

world. I couldn't find a reason to doubt that claim. It's big,

spacious, clean, bright and functional. It's about an hour's drive from

Seoul. You can take a train, but I took a shuttle from the Dragon Hill

Lodge at Yongson.

I passed through immigration and customs without fanfare and arrived in

the arrivals hall to find Pam waiting with a sign with my name on it. I

would have picked her out, anyway, because she was the only blonde, and

I recognized her from her Facebook page.

I spent Tuesday at the Joint Security Area at the DMZ with a USO tour.

I stood briefly in North Korea, and was at tinme surrounded by heavily

mined areas. At one point, our escort said “If it's mowed, it's not

mined.” I got to go down into one of the four known tunnels the North

Koreans have built, presumably to infiltrate forces into the South. The

North said the tunnel must have been some old coal mine. If we've found

four, I'll bet there are 40.

We took the KTX train to Miryang where we changed to a local for Chinhae

(or Jinhae as it is now called).

On Wednesday I visited the South Korean Naval Academy; ROKS Sejong the

Great (DDG 991); the U.S. Naval Facility at Chinhae; and the ROK Naval

Headquarters in Busan, all before returning by KTX to Seoul. I visited

Commander Naval Forces Korea in Seoul on Thursday, as well as the PAO

shop at USFK. Thursday night was a Surface Navy Association Join-Up at

the Black Angus Yongsan. On Friday I met up with Cochrane shipmate

Roger Pacheco and his wife Miok for lunch and some shopping in the

Itaewan district, then a visit to the Korean War Museum

(https://www.warmemo.or.kr/eng/intro/message/message.jsp;

http://www.lifeinkorea.com/Travel2/79;

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_Memorial_of_Korea).

This museum recognized all of Korea's wars. There was a huge play area

on the first level for children, which can be seen and heard almost

everywhere in the museum. To me it seemed like a reminder that the

future is our children, but that they must know and understand the

terrible past.

Later that evening Phillip Raskin and I met up for dinner. We had

kal-bi at a newly opened Korean restaurant, then repaired to the 3 Alley

Pub (http://3alleypub.com/) for a night cap, and where Phillip met up

with his ex-pat pals before I returned to the Dragon Hill Lodge.

I took the shuttle to the airport in time to see the lights of Seoul

then the sun rising. The ride to Incheon is about an hour, and it is

mostly built up the entire way.

My flight was delayed by six hours, so I bought an adapter plug and

found an outlet and sat on the floor. Incheon International Airport has

free wi-fi throughout. It is a big, spacious and sensible airport.

Once you figure out the map, you can find anything. My flight was

delayed, so I explored the whole thing. We did depart at the

rescheduled time after another bag check and pat down search just before

the jetway. My patter-downer was cute, so I didn't object.

Because delays were anticipated, I think many passengers may have

changed their flights because the 777 was not even half full. I had

three seats to myself so I was able to stretch out for a nap after

watching “9” and having dinner. I also watched “On the Waterfront” with

Marlon Brando. Food was okay. They put squid in everything. About

four hours before arrival at Dulles we were diverted to Chicago O'Hare

because IAD was closed for snow. Can't say I was surprised. We cleared

customs at O'Hare and KAL was very thorough in getting people onto

shuttle buses and off to the hotel, the Radisson at Schaumberg, Ill.

The hotel is owned by a Korean, and they had Korean-speaking staff.

(But I learned that many of the passengers were traveling from China,

Vietnam and the Philippines, and had connected at Seoul.) We had a

voucher for dinner. We would be leaving the hotel before breakfast, but

the next morning I discovered they opened the restaurant early to

accommodate us. Again KAL was great in getting us checked in. Security

was pretty quick, but I found that there is no place to get a cup of

coffee after security in the O'Hare International Terminal. By the time

we were boarding it had started snowing and we had to be deiced. We

took off on time, and were served a snack (you would never get that on a

Chicago-Washington flight on a U.S. airline these days). We landed at

about 11:30 ET. The landing was great, but the runway was solid white.

Our gate wasn't available, and we waited for almost 90 minutes to get up

to the terminal. I did find a cab (my biggest concern). The roads were

awful (there were snow plows that had run off the road), and I tipped my

driver $20!

*** From Larry Bearfield, proprietor of Fern's Country Store in

Carlisle, Mass, and creator of the OpSki program for the military

community (excerpted from Fern's Pickle Barrel E-News):

Last weekend, Robin and I took time to attend a Military ski event out

in the Berkshires. Called Sno!!!Jam, it's a weekend for Military

personnel that we were involved with in a past life when we invented a

program called Operation Ski & Snowboard (OpSki). essentially we worked

with ski resorts worldwide to develop lift ticket and lodging discounts

for qualified military personnel – a small market of about 11 million.

Weekend on-mountain fun, family events at resorts like Copper Mountain,

Squaw, Steamboat, Attitash, Berkshire East were part of the offerings.

It was a phenomenal program. All privately run – which astounded The

Pentagon when we were called to Washington to help them understand how

we could develop a program with no government help. Then the dot-com

bust hit before we were able to finally ink the big deal. Timing's

everything in life.

Meanwhile, because of the exposure, ski resorts worldwide continue to

offer the Military Discounts we helped establish. That's fulfilling. And

on-mountain events like Sno!!!Jam here and the USAF Academy's SnoFest at

Keystone continue.

We went to the event out in the Berkshires because of the many lasting

friendships we made. It's not about the skiing. Primarily a US Navy

event, other services have attended, including the Air National Guard

Unit that were part of the rescue in The Perfect Storm as well as Army,

Marine and Coast Guard personnel. “Locals” like USS Constitution crew

members attend as well as folks who flew in from as far away as San

Diego! What was especially fun was that we had several Fernites From

Afah Chapter Presidents in attendance. We collected on the beers they

owed us for their appointments.

But here's the point of all of this. Regardless of your political

persuasion, when you spend time with these men & women you can't help

but be inspired by their zest for life, positive can-do attitude, their

unwavering commitment to what they do and the intense loyalty they hold

in their hearts for their friends. We all wish that we didn't have a

need for a military force but that's a fantasy. And when we need them –

these are the professionals that I want on my side. We all have our

daily grind – but you have to admire what they volunteer to do.

http://www.fernscountrystore.com/

(Fern's is the official country store of the JOTW network. Stop in and

tell them you heard about Fern's from JOTW and get a free cup of coffee!

Larry, I'm going to post this in the newsletter.)

Hey Ned,

I'd be happy to share the editorial from our recent Ferns Country Store

Pickle Barrel E-News with your loyal readers! However, YOUR readers

should know that when we developed OpSki you were active duty at the

time and you were instrumental in helping us launch the program. It was

pretty 'out-of-the-box' for most of the military folks we were trying to

work with. Probably due to the fact that it was one of the first times

all branches were brought together in a cooperative effort. But you

helped penetrate some of the key naysayers which paved the way for us.

And when you were CO of the Naval Media Center your intro of us to the

Navy Marine Corps News staff resulted in the first and only on-mountian,

slope side production of the weekly news. Operation Ski & Snowboard was,

without question, a tremendous success with thousands of military

personnel and their families were able to enjoy the benefits of our

OpSki program – – without costing the taxpayers one dime! Ultimately,

when the dot-com bust hit, we were no longer able to sustain the

program. And unfortunately, no one was willing to pick it up to continue

it.

By the way, your readers are also welcome to subscribe for our free

Pickle Barrel e-news: http://www.listcast.com/x?oid=24464m

Best,

Larry

*** Here's the YVNS Travel News for February:

No laughing matter:

*** One-On-One With U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood: DOT

Targets Tarmac Tribulations

The U.S. Department of Transportation on April 20 will enact rules that

require U.S. airlines to allow passengers to deplane if a tarmac delay

reaches three hours. U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood spoke

with BTN senior editor Jay Boehmer to discuss their implementation and

the Obama administration's travel priorities. From Business Travel

News.

http://www.btnonline.com/businesstravelnews/headlines/frontpage_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1004061241

*** The Top Ten Gross Things People Do On Airplanes

http://www.jaunted.com/story/2009/11/23/125/82595

This list is tame. You got anything grosser that you have seen?

*** Twitter Joke Led to Terror Act Arrest and Airport Life Ban

Link to article in The Independent:

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/twitter-joke-led-to-terror-act-arrest-and-airport-life-ban-1870913.html

*** Following the release of Up in the Air, the Telegraph picks 10 of

the most memorable movies about air travel.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/picturegalleries/7019071/Up-in-the-Air-10-films-at-30000-feet.html

*** From Famous Kitchens to the Skies:

How Singapore Airlines Develops Their Menus

http://www.jaunted.com/story/2010/2/8/04719/39326

*** An Air New Zealand contest for cougars is drawing objections coming

from New Zealand's Rape Prevention Education, which insists that the ad

for the contest-not the contest-is degrading to women and insulting to

male rape survivors. And we have not yet heard from animal rights

activists, being as the ad shows “meat hungry cougars” on the prowl.

http://www.jaunted.com/story/2010/1/21/143241/550/travel/Is+Air+New+Zealand%27s+Racy+%27Cougars%27+Ad+Really+All+That+Bad%3F

*** AeroTrain is Open to Passengers at Dulles International Airport:

http://www.metwashairports.com/dulles/flight_information_3/maps/aerotrain_4

*** In the lick of time:

In the “Did they really do that” category comes this bit of not so

subtle word play from Spirit Airlines. Furthering its middle school boy

locker room sense of humor, the airline follows its MILF-themed “Many

Islands, Low Fare” witticism with “Many Unbelievably Fantastic Fares”

http://www.adrants.com/2010/02/spirit-airlines-goes-muff-diving.php

*** From George Hobica:

“I was on a plane recently, first class, on American, where the guy

sitting next to me shook his glass as the flight attendant was passing

by and said “More ice”–the FA said, “What's the magic word” and the guy

said, “Oh, you mean I'm supposed to say please? I just want more ice”

… and she said, “You want more ice, it's up in the galley. Go get it

yourself.”

http://consumerist.com/2010/01/passenger-and-steward-fight-over-ice.html

*** Free Airport Wi-Fi Takes Off

Link to column in USA Today:

http://www.usatoday.com/travel/columnist/baskas/2010-02-10-free-airport-wi-fi_N.htm

*** Florida Airport Changes Name, Increases Business

Link to story on WFTV-TV:

http://www.wftv.com/countybycounty/22412815/detail.html

*** 2010 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia Book is Now Available!

The new 2010 Freshwater Fishing in Virginia (Fishing Regulations) book

has been published, and a copy can be obtained at the upcoming fishing

and hunting shows, all license agents and Department offices. VDGIF

Fisheries Division Director, Gary Martel, notes, “This publication not

only contains the fishing regulations, but an extensive 'Let's Go

Fishing' section, with information about major sport fish, public

fishing lakes, major fishing rivers, and the trout stocking program.

Also, you can find information about fish citations, state records,

angling education programs, exotic species, and more.” The Freshwater

Fishing Regulations section, including the complete Trout Fishing Guide,

on our website have also been updated for 2010.

http://www.dgif.virginia.gov/outdoor-report/2010/02/10/#wild-events-you-dont-want-to-miss

*** Rental Car conundrum:

Got any tricks for saving money or getting better deals on rental cars.

One suggestion is to go to off-airport operations, or less known brands.

I disagree on both.

Is it best to book your car when you book your flight? Or shop around?

What do you think? Send rental car comments to Ned at

lundquist989@cs.com for inclusion in the February issue of “Your Very

Next Step.”

*** From Cindy Starks:

Hi Ned —

I went back to CT last July to visit my Mom, and I got prices for rental

cars from Hertz, Avis and Enterprise. To rent a car for a week from

both Hertz and Avis was going to be more than $600. From Enterprise, a

little more than $200. I had a great car and a great experience. I

plan to use Enterprise again when I visit CT in March.

Cindy Starks

*** From Mark Marymee:

Ned: I just took a trip to California last Monday (Jan. 25) for a job

interview. Needed to rent a car for one day. Wanted to find the least

expensive “economy” rental I could find. Went to Orbitz.com, saw Avis

and Hertz both at approx. $120 per day; but Alamo was $21. With an

additional $24 in local taxes, fees, etc., my one day rental came out to

$45. And Alamo is on-site at the Auto Rental Center at San Francisco

International.

Best,

Mark Marymee

West Bloomfield, MI

*** What do you think about taking your dog on a long hike or

backpacking trek in the back country?

*** Trail volunteer opportunities

Volunteer Opportunities – Superior Hiking Trail Association

We need Trail Volunteers for group hikes… These are our SUPERIOR

HIKEVENTS, Saturday mornings through the hiking season.

Hike leader… simply help organize & administer the logistics of

parking, shuttling, etc.

Be a 'sweep' (hiking last to be sure no one is left behind)… do it

alone or as a couple or a family.

Lead or help lead a group backpacking trek

We need Trail Volunteers for maintenance

Come to Saturday work hikes… pitch in with a small group… do tasks

of your ability.

Special group opportunities… projects for scouts, students or other

special groups you work with.

http://www.shta.org/SHTA/Volunteer.php

*** Castle Rock Hike with Phil Stoffer

Saturday, March 06, 2010

10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Join Bay Nature and geologist Phil Stoffer for an exploration of Castle

Rock State Park in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Phil Stoffer, on staff at the U.S. Geological Survey, knows the Santa

Cruz Mountains about as well as anybody. And Castle Rock, with it's

large sandstone exposures, is a great place to take a walk with a

geologist! We'll see Castle Rock itself, Goat Rock, a waterfall, tafoni

formations, and (we hope, rain depending) lots of wildflowers along the

way. If the cliffs are dry, we'll also likely see rock climbers in

action.

Bring water, lunch, a hat, and be sure to dress in layers. RSVP

information is below. This hike is limited to 25 people. We'll send an

email confirmation with directions to the meeting place to everyone who

signs up.

Cost: $8 per car parking fee

Location:

37.232417,-122.099197 (Castle Rock State Park)

Google Map (always check directions with organizer)

Event Contact:

Bay Nature Hikes

hikes@baynature.org

(510)528-8550

http://baynature.org/events/castle-rock-hike-with-phil-stoffer

*** ADOPT-A-MILE – Tahoe Rim Trail:

For more than 20 years volunteers have been planning and building the

Tahoe Rim Trail. Even though most of the work has been done by

volunteers there have been many other costs associated with the

completion of the trail.

Individuals, families and organizations can help to ensure the

continuing legacy of the Tahoe Rim Trail by adopting your own mile! As

an Adopt-A-Miler, you have the opportunity to support the trail, and

give back to something you love – the environment!

An Adopt-A-Mile is also a wonderful way to recognize a family member

For a $5,000 contribution, you will have recognition at the two

trailheads that access the mile, a lifetime membership and a beautiful

16″ x 20″ framed photograph taken from your adopted mile. The major

financial support for the past 20 years has come from our

Adopt-A-Milers.

Over the next few years, our goals are to develop more access to trails

and day hikes, move all of the road portions of the trail to

single-track trail, and to establish a permanent maintenance program.

Your tax deductible donation to Adopt-A-Mile will help us achieve those

goals.

http://www.tahoerimtrail.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=101&Itemid=41

*** Upgrade:

I am contacting you with a matter which is very troubling to me.

I registered up for the “Earn Premier Executive Status” promotion

(MPS269). My MileagePlus # is 00085535323.

I then flew two roundtrips on United. Both flights were from Dulles,

even though there were more convenient and lower priced options from

Reagan nation, which is a much better airport for me.

Both flights were booked as roundtrips through my company's corporate

travel agent.

Three of those flights showed up on my mileage summary as H class, which

qualifies. The round trip to Boston, however, shows H class to BOS and

W class on the return.

I never had any indication that this final flight was somehow booked on

another class. So my expectation was that I qualified for the

promotion. It wasn't until I checked to see if my status had changed

that I noticed that the return flight on the IAD-BOS-IAD trip was

showing a different fare.

I feel I lived up to the requirement of the promotion, and would like to

have my Premier membership upgraded to Premier Executive.

(Here's the response I got from United)

Hello Mr. Lundquist,

Thank you for being a loyal Premier member.

I apologize, but the terms and conditions of the Fast Track offer,

MPS269 are very clear in that all segments must be flown in H class or

above to qualify for the promotion. As a result, I am unable to honor

your request to be elevated to Premier Executive status.

I hope you understand and will continue to use United for your future

travel needs. Your business is important to us.

Andy Jewitt

(I then contacted United Media Relations, and asked them how many

Mileage Plus Premier members registered for the upgrade promotion, took

the flights, and qualified for the upgrade, and how many (like me)

attempted to qualify but failed.)

Hello Ned –

I am not able to answer the questions at the detailed level that you

have asked because that is something our competitors would love to know.

That said, I can tell you that it is a very successful program, meaning

many of our members have participated and taken advantage of it, as they

have with similar programs in past years.

The purpose of it is to give our customers who are just shy of their

desired status an opportunity to achieve it, as we know many folks may

not have traveled as much as they historically have during the

recession.

The travel agent sees the fare class that he/she books you in and the

promotion does say H class or above, so I am not sure what we did wrong

here. Nonetheless, I am more than happy to give you Premier Executive

status again should your travel plans change and you choose to give us

your business.

Thanks,

Robin Urbanski

United Press Office and Subscriber to JOTW

*** The “Iron Silk Road”

KORAIL

http://info.korail.com/2007/eng/eng_index.jsp

In order to reduce air resistance, the head part of front and back of

the high-speed railroad is designed after streamlined shape of a shark,

plus the characteristic of Korean culture which is the soft curve.

Bottom of the vehicle where lots of air resistance exist, all devices

are covered with coverlets. Even the crevices between cars and small

sills of windows and surface of the cars are minimized as possible.

*** The February YVNS sport Ned has never heard of:

Some people call chuckwagon racing a sport, for us it's a way of life.

http://www.agt.net/public/msranch/

A half mile of hell… http://www.wpca.com/

Want to work in this business? Read on:

Here is some information about the job.

The job is typically a young person's job because of the physical

aspect. The room is shared accommodations with other ranch hands. At

the ranch we have a trailer similar to a mobile home with a few separate

rooms along with washroom facilities and a kitchen area. The

accommodations on the road consist of a holiday trailer shared with the

other ranch hands and two semi trucks with sleepers on them. The trailer

has a stove, fridge and microwave.

For breakfast the guys fix their own, although we buy cereal, coffee and

stuff for them. Lunch is usually left-overs from the night before and

supper is a good meal we usually provide in the house.

Between February and May we will be training around the Okotoks-Calgary

area. My ranch is there. In June we will be moving everything to

Grande Prairie and we will be there for the first competition. Once the

season starts we move to a different town every week.

One person will be staying at my ranch to look after the horses left

there. We try to alternate this person so everyone travels. We will be

hiring until we fill six positions.

The work is seven days a week and the hours are as follows.

One person will get up early and feed at 6:00 AM. We take turns doing

this. Everyone is in the barn ready for work at 8:00 am. We train about

half of the horses in the morning. Some of the guys will help with this

“truck training”. We exercise the horses four at a time at a slow pace

using the trucks and cutom made training rack attachment. When the

horses are out of their stalls some of the guys will have to clean the

stalls, refill the water pails and feed grain/hay. This usually takes

until 11:00 am. Once that group of horses is complete, we restock the

grain bins or haul a bale of straw. Usually there are many little things

to do. We put the horses in for lunch first and then we eat. After lunch

we start on the other half of horses. The same routine is in place. The

only difference is that we need all of the guys to help because we train

this group on the chuckwagon. Check out the website below for some

photos of that if you are not familiar. This takes all afternoon and

around 5:00 pm we start cleaning the stalls, feeding and getting

everything ready. We finish this at around 7:00 and we put the horses

away for the night and we go eat. Either before or after supper

(depending on when we finish) we brush the horses and tend to them with

any medicine. The night usually ends around 9:30 and the crew is off.

The spring part is a very tough schedule because it never usually

changes.

From June on, we are on the road. We travel every week to a new rodeo,

sometimes all the way across the province. Travel days are long because

when we get to the new town we have to set up our barns, build the new

corals, get the horses in and feed them. On race days we follow the same

feeding, barn cleaning and grooming schedule but we don't usually train.

The races typically start in the evening and we finish with the horses

very late. Usually you will have a few hours during the afternoon to

yourself to catch up on sleep, shop or what ever. We race 57 days

between June and September. A non race day is about the same but we

train the horses in the morning. We hook the horses to the wagons and

run them on the track. This is not every day but we usually do train a

couple days a week.

We travel to 12 different cities and the workers are expected to drive

one of the vehicles. We travel in a group so when we arrive we can all

set up the portable barns we use to house the animals. Travel days are

usually long. It is always the case that the horses come first. We make

sure they are comfortable and fed before the crew goes to bed.

We do let the guys have time off and we encourage it but we like the

days scheduled so we are not short handed. The guys are on their own for

those days. Once we are on the road it is a lot more fun. The job is fun

but it is a bunch of work and the wage is not high for the hours we

work. It is simply something you will love or not.

Keep in contact if you are interested. Check out our posting on the job

bank at www.jobbank.gc.ca

*** Hypothermia Lurks in Dangerous Combination of Warm Air and Cold

Water

Hypothermia is a medical emergency that occurs when your body loses heat

faster than it can produce heat, causing a dangerously low body

temperature. Normal body temperature is around 98.6 F (37 C).

Hypothermia (hi-po-THUR-me-uh) occurs as your body temperature passes

below 95 F (35 C).

When your body temperature drops, your heart, nervous system and other

organs cannot work correctly. Left untreated, hypothermia eventually

leads to complete failure of your heart and respiratory system and to

death.

Hypothermia is most often caused by exposure to cold weather, or

immersion in a cold body of water. Primary treatments are methods to

warm the body back to a normal temperature. Signs and symptoms of

hypothermia include:

. Shivering

. Clumsiness or lack of coordination

. Slurred speech or mumbling

. Stumbling

. Confusion or difficulty thinking

. Poor decision making, such as trying to remove warm clothes

. Drowsiness or very low energy

. Apathy, or lack of concern about one's condition

. Progressive loss of consciousness

. Weak pulse

. Shallow breathing

A person with hypothermia usually isn't aware of his or her condition,

because the symptoms often begin gradually and because the confused

thinking associated with hypothermia prevents self-awareness.

First-aid care:

. Be gentle. When you are helping a person with hypothermia, handle him

or her gently. Limit movements to only those that are necessary. Don't

massage or rub the person. Excessive, vigorous or jarring movements may

trigger cardiac arrest.

. Move the person out of the cold. Move the person to a warm, dry

location if possible. If you're unable to move the person out of the

cold, shield him or her from the cold and wind as much as possible.

. Remove wet clothing. If the person is wearing wet clothing, remove it.

Cut away clothing if necessary to avoid excessive movement

. Cover the person with blankets. Use layers of dry blankets or coats to

warm the person. Cover the person's head, leaving only the face exposed.

. Insulate the person's body from the cold ground. If you're outside,

lay the person on his or her back on a blanket or other warm surface.

. Monitor breathing. A person with severe hypothermia may appear

unconscious, with no apparent signs of a pulse or breathing. If the

person's breathing has stopped or appears dangerously low or shallow,

begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately if you're trained.

. Share body heat. To warm the person's body, remove your clothing and

lie next to the person, making skin-to-skin contact. Then cover both of

your bodies with blankets.

. Provide warm beverages. If the affected person is alert and able to

swallow, provide a warm, nonalcoholic, non-caffeinated beverage to help

warm the body.

. Use warm, dry compresses. Use a first-aid warm compress (a plastic

fluid-filled bag that warms up when squeezed), or a makeshift compress

of warm water in a plastic bottle or a dryer-warmed towel. Apply a

compress only to the neck, chest wall or groin. Don't apply a warm

compress to the arms or legs. Heat applied to the arms and legs forces

cold blood back toward the heart, lungs and brain, causing the core body

temperature to drop. This can be fatal.

. Don't apply direct heat. Don't use hot water, a heating pad or a

heating lamp to warm the person. The extreme heat can damage the skin or

induce cardiac arrest

*** Travel/Adventure/Outdoors employment opportunities:

Camp Cascade – Counselor, Vail Cascade Resort & Spa, Vail, CO

OUR VISION:

Sharing passion, building relationships, and creating lasting

memories…The Ultimate Vail Experience!

OUR MISSION:

Vail Cascade Resort & Spa is Vail's premier full-service resort and

conference destination, providing unsurpassed hospitality experiences

for our discerning group and leisure travelers.

OUR VALUES:

Have fun, enjoy what you do and celebrate our successes

Be 100% responsible and keep all commitments

Act with integrity and treat all people with dignity, empathy and

respect

Encourage open and candid communication

Respect individual efforts to achieve a balanced life

Promote continuous learning, self-development and champion diversity

Associates are empowered in the relentless pursuit of outstanding guest

service, quality and innovation commitment to profitability

OUR CULTURE:

Destination Hotels & Resorts fosters a creative, entrepreneurial and

energetic work environment where people come to work and have fun.

We value passionate people who love to be challenged and desire the

freedom to contribute to the overall success of the organization.

Your role will be integral to the success of our company.

We strive to create a work place culture that values family, work life

balance and community.

We help develop our associates and provide support for them to grow

their careers with DH&R.

Our associates are proud to work here!

Responsibilities for this Position

Vail Cascade Resort & Spa is a Rocky Mountain landmark and has been a

symbol of comfort, adventure, elegance and impeccable service in Vail,

Colorado for over 20 years.

Nestled riverside on Gore Creek, at the base of Vail Mountain, the

Cascade offers 292 inviting guestrooms, 65 condominiums and 11 private

residences, all including the amenities of a world-class resort.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

To promote and deliver courteous, efficient, and memorable Guest Service

to all members and guests.

To supervise all children's programs and have full knowledge of child

care functions as they pertain to our members and guests.

To promote club memberships, activities, and amenities within our

facility.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Ensure appropriate supervision of children according to state, legal and

safety guidelines

Must be able to supervise children for at least 12 hours

Ensure that all projects support the vision and direction of our child

care program as outlined by direct report

Take the initiative and responsibility to provide weekly status update

to direct report on all projects

Able to work a flexible work schedule

Report to work within 30 minutes when on-call

Receive authorization from direct report before working off premises

Ensure that all brochures, schedules, activities information, and

related collateral regarding child care is maintained daily

Cleanliness and tidiness of child care facility

Clear and direct communication with all other departments and assistance

in other areas when needed

Greet all members and guests

Direct all members and guests to the appropriate location in the

facility

Answering all inquiries about our child care programs, the facility and

amenities

Full knowledge of spa and club functions and activities

Cover breaks for other Club and Spa areas and assist when needed

Answer overflow of telephone calls in support of front desk and spa

reception areas when needed

Must have accuracy in reporting

Commitment to providing excellent child care and customer service

Ability to demonstrate sound judgement in the area of child care and day

to day operations of the Club & Spa

Job Requirements

Must be a citizen of this country or possess a valid work permit.

QUALIFICATIONS

==============

ESSENTIAL:

1.High School graduate

2.Child care certification

3.Minimum of six months experience in child care

DESIRABLE:

1.Working knowledge of computer programs: Microsoft Windows, Word, and

Outlook

2.1 year experience in child care and customer service role

3.College graduate

SKILLS

========

ESSENTIAL:

1. Must be able to handle pressure situations including life threatening

situations with confidence and composure

2. Must be detail oriented with good organizational skills

3. Must have good guest and associate relations skills

4. Must be able to speak, hear, and understand the English language

5. Must be able to read and write the English language

6. Must be able to stand for at least 6-8 hours

7. Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds

8. Must be able to handle multiple tasks in a fast paced environment

DESIRABLE:

1.Strong leadership abilities

2.Competent in written and verbal communication

3.Competent in problem solving in all guest/memberships

Technical Requirements:

Must live in the local area or within commuting distance.

Compensation: Wage $11.00 per hour

http://jobs.hospitalityonline.com/129866/

*** Executive Director, Tahoe Rim Trail, Lake Tahoe

http://www.execsearches.com/non-profit-jobs/jobDetail.asp?job_id=19794

*** Group Tour and Administrative Assistant, Eastern State Penitentiary

Historic Site, Philadelphia, PA

Eastern State Penitentiary was once the most famous and expensive prison

in the world, but stands today in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling

cellblocks and empty guard towers. Known for its grand architecture and

strict discipline, this was the world's first true “penitentiary,” a

prison designed to inspire penitence, or true regret, in the hearts of

convicts. Its vaulted, sky-lit cells once held many of America's most

notorious criminals, including bank robber “Slick Willie” Sutton and Al

Capone. Tours today include the cellblocks, solitary punishment cells,

Al Capone's Cell, and Death Row. A critically acclaimed series of

artists' installations is free with admission. Eastern State

Penitentiary Historic Site is located at 22nd Street and Fairmount

Avenue, just five blocks from the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It is open

every day, year round (guided tours only from December 1 to March 14).

Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site is a small organization (eleven

full-time employees) but is growing quickly. The organization prides

itself on innovative approach and excellence in programming, ambitious

outreach, and an upbeat and respectful office culture. Find more

information about Eastern State Penitentiary at www.easternstate.org.

Reporting

The Group Tour and Administrative Assistant reports to the Assistant

Program Director for Operations and Special Events.

Responsiblities

The Group Tour and Administrative Assistant will:

Be the main contact for all groups planning visits to the site including

daytime tours and tours to the organization's Halloween event Terror

Behind the Walls. This will include scheduling tours via phone and

email, mailing written confirmations and maintaining the group tour

databases.

Schedule all site rentals of 15 or fewer people. This includes

wedding/engagement photography, still photography, film shoots and

paranormal investigations.

Have primary responsibility for greeting and giving direction to office

visitors in addition to responding to general inquiries via mail, email,

or telephone.

Manage supplies for the administrative staff and help maintain the

appearance and organization of shared work and storage spaces.

Maintain a calendar shared by the organization. Weekly staff meetings

will inform the Group Tour and Administrative Assistant of activities

happening throughout the organization.

Aid the administrative staff of the historic site as needed. These tasks

may include, but are not limited to, assisting with mass mailings,

collating, filing, scheduling meetings and special event preparation.

Gain a broad understanding of Eastern State Penitentiary's history,

although s/he will not lead historic tours.

Qualifications

Candidates must be energetic, friendly, highly organized, able to work

independently and collaboratively and have a firm understanding of

Microsoft Office programs and the Internet. Although creativity and

initiative will be important, attention to detail and careful planning,

multitasking and time management skills are the most critical strengths.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills as well as the ability

to communicate pleasantly and effectively with supervisor, other staff,

and the general public are imperative. Maintain full confidentiality of

any and all conversations, data records, files and other information

where access is limited. Other computer skills and familiarity with

Eastern State are preferred. Bachelor's degree or four years equivalent

experience required.

Salary and Benefits

Salary is in the mid to high 20's, plus fully subsidized highly

competitive healthcare package and guaranteed retirement benefit

contribution following a six-month trial period.

To Apply

Interested parties should email cover letter & resume to Brett

Bertolino, Assistant Program Director for Operations & Special Events at

bb@EasternState.org, with the subject line reading: Group Tour and

Administrative Assistant. No phone calls please.

Go to Easternstate.org for more information on Eastern State

Penitentiary.

http://www.easternstate.org/hiring/group_tour_administrative.php

*** Staff, Matagamon High Adventure Base, Katahdin Area Council, Boy

Scouts of America, located at the northeast corner of Baxter State Park

on Grand Lake Matagamon, 27 miles northwest of Patten, Maine

Opportunities to serve the Boy Scouts of America by being employed as a

staff

member for Maine High Adventure are available to qualified and motivated

people.

Each position is challenging and involves considerable responsibility.

The experience

can provide opportunities for personal growth and rewarding human

interaction.

* The minimum age for MHA employment is 18 for most positions.*

* Each staff member must be registered with the BSA or agree to become

registered.

* Each staff member is expected to practice the principles of the Scout

Oath and Law while employed

with MHA.

* Each staff member is expected to set an example of excellence in

Scouting which includes the wearing

of the MHA/BSA uniform.

* Summer employment is offered from approximately June 1 until August

22.

* Salary is based on position responsibility and applicant

qualification.

* References are important! Have a member of your local council

professional staff write a letter of

recommendation on your behalf, or use the MHA reference form.

* Review the brief job descriptions below.

* Mail your applications early!

* Contact MHA via phone or email for application packet, or download

below.

* Keep MHA informed of address or circumstance changes during the

application and employment process.

* Mail your completed application to the address below.

* There may be openings for one or two staff members 16-17 years old.

SUMMER POSITIONS AVAILABLE

POSITION – BRIEF JOB DESCRIPTION

* Base Director*: Has total responsibility for successful base operation

including providing leadership

to staff of 25 to 30.

* Base Operations Manager*: Supervises base staff and program support

operations: staff feeding,

commissary, trading post, transportation, and maintenance.

* Chief Guide* (Trail Staff Supervisor): Supervises trail staff and

program related logistics. Responsible

for training, evaluation, and directing trail staff, and planning

trip itineraries.

* Outfitter: Manages trail equipment and trail food aspect of program.

Oversees issue, return, and repair

of trail equipment. Also manages trading post (store).

* Cook: Responsible for staff feeding and kitchen related aspect of

program. Manages menu, budget,

and health/sanitation requirements.

* Guide (Trail staff): Accompanies crews on trail. Responsible for crew

orientation, skill instruction, and

environmental/historical interpretation. Lead safety person on treks.

* Driver: Transports crews and staff by power boat and 15 passenger van

with canoe trailer. Also responsible

for vehicle, equipment, and facility maintenance.

* Assistant Outfitter: Assists and serves as back up for Commissary

Supervisor.

* Assistant Cook: Assists and serves as back up to Cook.

* Operations Specialist: Rotates jobs to back up other positions around

base.

*These positions are usually filed by returning staff members

ALL STAFF ARE SUBJECT TO DUTIES OUTSIDE

THEIR PRIMARY JOB DESCRIPTION AS NEEDED. ALL STAFF ARE ALSO

RESPONSIBLE FOR SHARING BASE AND PROGRAM

MAINTENANCE TASKS. ALL POSITIONS REQUIRE SOME FORM OF RECORD KEEPING

OR DOCUMENTATION.

Compensation varies with position responsibility. In addition to a

competitive weekly salary, employees

receive room and board, various staff uniform items, and one day off

per week.

JOIN THE MAINE TEAM!

http://katahdinareabsa.org/content/4185/Serve_on_Camp_Staff/

*** Public Affairs Specialist, National Park Service, Department Of The

Interior, Grand Teton National Park, WY

http://jobview.usajobs.gov/getjob.aspx?jobid=85814319

*** Costumed Guest Engagement Facilitator/Interpreter(1st Person),

Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, Fishers, IN

http://connerprairie.myexacthire.com/ViewJob-21089.html

*** Business Development Officer, Wild Mob, Brisbane, Australia

Wild Mob is a not-for-profit, non-political business launched in 2008

that organizes volunteers for wilderness conservation projects in some

of Australia's most iconic destinations.

See more about us at: http://www.wildmob.org

We are currently seeking a highly motivated and hands-on Business

Development Officer to be responsible for recruiting volunteers to take

part in our projects.

You will liaise directly with Universities, schools and other potential

prospects including international volunteers with the aim of selling

conservation holidays.

Ideally, you will have previous experience in both sales and marketing,

and hold a minimum manual open driver's license. Environmental and/or

conservation qualifications will also be highly regarded as will

excellent organization and communication skills.

If you are self-motivated, possess initiative and have a passion for

selling with a true sense of adventure then this is a great opportunity

to join a vibrant, young, volunteering business.

For further information please apply directly to: sarah@wildmob.org.

Corporate Communications Coordinator, Sabre Holdings, Fort Worth, TX +2

locations

Sabre Holdings connects people with the world's greatest travel

possibilities by retailing travel products and providing distribution

and technology solutions for the travel industry through our three

companies: Travelocity, Sabre Travel Network and Sabre Airline

Solutions. Headquartered in Southlake, Texas, Sabre Holdings has

approximately 9,000 employees in more than 55 countries. Our teams

around the world work together to support travelers, travel agents,

corporations, government agencies and travel suppliers. Our team members

are people who take initiative, are resourceful and innovative, and are

passionate about what they do. In return for their hard work and

dedication, Sabre Holdings provides our employees with countless

learning and growth opportunities, a healthy work-life balance and a

fun, yet productive, work environment.

The Corporate Communications Coordinator will support employee

communications activities as described in the description below. This

person should have experience developing written material for a variety

of audiences – and various communication vehicles including email,

presentations, intranet articles, etc.

However, the focus of this position will be on delivering visually

creative solutions for internal use including email, the intranet, video

and other channels. Ideally the candidate will have graphic and web

design skills and preferably desktop video editing. They should also

have experience using the corporate intranet as an interactive

communications tool, and have experience with Microsoft SharePoint.

EDUCATION: Requires a bachelor's degree, preferably in communications or

design-related field.

EXPERIENCE: Minimum 3 years of related experience

http://www.ihispano.com/job/employer/818537/view/detail/results

*** From Mark Sofman:

Public Relations Manager, Stowe Mountain Lodge, Stowe, VT

http://www.cytiva.com/dest/DetailDest.asp?dest9250

Nordic/Staff Instructor, X-Country Center, Sundance, UT

https://jobs.utah.gov/jsp/utahjobs/seeker/search/viewReferralInfo.do?src=gsm&joid=2200971974

Head Coach Alpine Skiing, Osseo Area Schools, Maple Grove, MN

http://jobsearch.educationamerica.net/index.phtml?a=v&j=592317

Ski Check, The Canyons, Park City, UT

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE – Service guests with their ski and snow board storage

along with providing information about The Resort and surrounding areas.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

* Provide superior service to our customers (internal and external)

at all times. Follow The Resort's etiquette guidelines.

* Check skis and boards in and out for complimentary overnight

storage.

* Provide guests with information about services available at The

Canyons ad the surrounding area.

* Assist with general clean up.

* Take and assess guest complaints, comments or special requests and

direct them to the appropriate person or department for resolution.

* Perform other tasks as assigned.

WORKING RELATIONSHIP – This position reports directly to the Guest

Services Manager and Guest Services Coordinator.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

* Exposure to inclement weather conditions.

* Repetitive lifting of skis and snowboards is required.

QUALIFICATIONS

* Positive enthusiastic attitude.

* Ability to converse clearly and comfortably with a variety of

guests.

* Strong organizational skills.

* Repetitive lifting of skis and snowboards is required.

* Ability to work in all weather conditions.

http://www.nationjob.com/job/CAYN637

Ski Instructor (2010-2011 season) Sugarbush Resort, Warren, VT

http://www.jobsinvt.com/seek/resultdetail.aspx?jobnum=49021

Manager, Tourism Business, Singapore Tourism Board,, Ministry of Trade

and Industry (Singapore), NY, NY

The Singapore Tourism Board, a statutory board under the Ministry of

Trade and Industry (Singapore) is tasked with the mission to promote

Singapore as a compelling travel destination and hub for business in the

international markets of USA, Canada, Mexico and Central America

(Americas). We are currently seeking interested candidate to apply for

the position of:

The suitable candidate will be responsible for the following:

Strategic Responsibilities

-Be part of team to develop branding and communications strategy

to position Singapore as top-of-mind leisure and business destination

-Keep abreast of market research and media trends to develop new

business/communication strategies.

-Lead short-term and long-term market development efforts to

increase visitorship to Singapore from US and Canada.

Brand Development & PR responsibilities

-Lead the branding and communications efforts and initiatives to

maximize media coverage of Singapore through different medium (e.g.

Print, Broadcast and Online)

-Lead and conceptualize creative marketing & communication

initiatives, particularly in the digital space

-Develop key messages for overall positioning of Singapore as

top-of-mind leisure and business destination

Business Development & Marketing Responsibilities

-Collaborate with key partners such as airlines, tour

operators/travel agents (TOs/TAs), media, government, hoteliers, event

organizers, etc., for initiatives in promoting and marketing Singapore

as a tourist destination.

-Develop and launch tactical programmes generating maximum ROIs

Requirements

The candidate should possess:

-3-5 years relevant working experience, preferably in tourism

marketing and branding business

-Prior PR / marcoms experience would be an added advantage

-Strong knowledge of Asia not a pre-requisite but would be an

added advantage

-USA work visa

-College /University Degree

-Strong analytical skills and the ability to think and communicate

clearly

-Good written and spoken communication and comfortable with public

presentation

-Proficiency in Microsoft word, excel and especially powerpoint

For more information on Singapore Tourism Board: www.stb.com.sg and

www.visitsingapore.com

Send cover letter and resume to: jean_salvador@stb.gov.sg

http://jobs.prweekjobs.com/careers/jobsearch/detail/jobId/22016333

Windsurfing Instructors, TJM Travel Ltd., France & Spain

Teach windsurfing abroad this Summer! As a Windsurfing Instructor you

will be responsible for teaching watersports activities to groups in

Spain & France between May – July.

Working to RYA/TJM guidelines, maintaining safety standards. Equipment

maintenance. Following Health & Safety procedures. Ensuring

accommodation (toilets/showers) are clean & tidy. Assist in the

promotion of the company by maintaining a good appearance & good

customer relations.

Requirements

Must be RYA qualified windsurfing instructor & have min RYA level 2

powerboat & First Aid Certificate.

http://www.watersportstaff.co.uk/job-details_65849.aspx

“Your work is to discover your work and then with all your heart to give

yourself to it.”

– Buddha

*** Your Very Next Step is a service of the Job of the Week Network LLC

Edward Lundquist, ABC –

Editor and Publisher

Your Very Next Step

7813 Richfield Road

Springfield, VA 22153

Home office phone: (703) 455-7661

lundquist989@cs.com

www.nedsjotw.com

Subscribe for free. Send a blank email to:

yourverynextstep-subscribe@topica.com.

Posted in Main Page, Your Very Next Step Newsletter | Leave a comment

Your Very Next Step newsletter for January 2010

Neds Job of the Week 01/10/2010

[0] comments

Your Very Next Step newsletter for January 2010

“Finally we shall place the Sun himself at the center of the Universe.

All this is suggested by the system of procession of events and the

harmony of the whole Universe, if only we face the facts, as they say,

“with eyes wide open.”

– Nicholas Copernicus

The next adventure begins with your very next step.

“Your Very Next Step” newsletter, published by Ned Lundquist, is a

cooperative community, and everyone is invited, no.encouraged, no.urged

to participate.

Subscribe for free. Send a blank email to:

yourverynextstep-subscribe@topica.com.

Send us your comments, questions, and contributions to

lundquist989@cs.com.

You are now among 641 subscribers.

Contact Ned at lundquist989@cs.com.

*** In this issue:

*** Your Travel New Year's Resolution

*** Guided Tour or “On your own?”

*** Off season faves

*** Up Helly Aa

*** Travel News

*** Fifth Freedom

*** Trekking poles

*** YVNS “Sport Ned Has Never Heard Of”

– Land diving in Vanuatu

*** Travel, Outdoor and Adventure Jobs and Volunteer Opportunities

1.) Naturalist, Allen Marine Tours, Sitka, Alaska

2.) Instructor, Pok-O-MacCready Outdoor Education Center, Willsboro,

New York

3.) Grant Writer, Montana Outdoor Science School, location negotiable

4.) Ecologist – Natural Resource Damage Assessments – NEPA, Sequence

Systems, Denver, Colorado

5.) Guide/Driver, Sockeye Cycle Co., Skagway, Alaska

6.) Full time Assistant Innkeeper, Stonewall Jackson Inn~B&B,

Harrisonburg, Virginia 7.) Front Desk Supervisor, Jasper Mountain Park

Lodges, Jasper, Alberta, Canada

9.) Public Affairs Specialist, Natural Resources Conservation Service,

Department Of Agriculture, Albuquerque, NM

11.) Spa Therapist, The Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa, Emirates Hotels &

Resorts, Wolgan Valley, Australia

12.) Senior Program/Water Park Director, YMCA of Columbia South

Carolina-Metro, Columbia, SC

.and much more.and it's all FREE!!!

*** Do you have a travel adventure to share?

Send me your stories and I'll post in the “Your Very Next Step” and on

the YVNS website (http://www.yourverynextstep.com/).

*** Travel, Outdoors and Adventure New Year's Resolutions!

What's your travel and adventure New Year's Resolution? Got something

you want to do? Someplace you want to go to? A mountain you need to

climb?

*** From Mark Sofman:

Don't know if 2010 is the year for it, but I surely want to go fishing

in Yellowstone National Park.

*** From Lisa A. Kilday :

Hi Ned,

My New Year's resolution is to do a self-supported multi-day bike ride.

Even if it means camping!

Would you mind including a link to my column at the Examiner? I write a

lot of stories on travel (mostly budget) and endurance sports. I am

always looking for tips.

http://www.examiner.com/x-19867-DC-Sports-Travel-Examiner?showbio

Thanks and Happy New Year,

Lisa A. Kilday

(703) 622-3664

http://www.examiner.com/x-19867-DC-Sports-Travel-Examiner?showbio

*** Non-New Year's Resolution:

Ned –

I quit making New Year's resolutions some years back. Seemed an

artificial requisite for approaching life deliberately. I keep lists of

projects that span days, weeks, months and years and am satisfied if I

“move the ball forward” on life's playing field.

Which brings me to the real reason for this missive. Though I'm no

longer active in media/information/public relations, I enjoy reading The

Very Next Step and keeping up with the industry. (Truth be told, I put

ripples in the pond of social order here in southern Oregon with local

articles, political maneuvering and appearances at public meetings.)

What is most useful to me, however, is the concept of the Very Next

Step. Whether it is the slow recovery of my home (we became empty

nesters in September) or the continued conversion of the old cabin to a

shop, considering the Very Next Step in a deliberate way makes progress

inevitable. Sometimes the Very Next Step is to sit down and look the

situation over. Sometimes it's wandering around with a tape measure, an

exercise I call “measured thinking.” Sometimes it's thinking like a

mechanic, realizing that one part of the problem must be dealt with

before the next. Applied to everyday life, the concept of the Very Next

Step is both calming and rewarding, and I thank you for that.

As for travels and adventure, my wife and I plan to travel the great

State of Oregon this year and see the Wonders of the Northwest. I've

been all over the state, while my wife had traveled Washington state

extensively before we married and took me many interesting places while

we were courting. My turn.

I'll keep working on making our home here in the hidebound hills more

comfortable, and enjoy some armchair travels with the cast of Very Next

Step. And I'll try to whittle that project list down to something less

than 400.

Walk in Peace – Jack

*** When visiting a new place, do you sign up for the guided tour, or

strike out on your own?

Send your advice to Ned at lundquist989@cs.com for the next issue of

Your Very Next Step. Subscribe for free by sending a blank email to

yourverynextstep-subscribe@topica.com. Read the newsletter at

www.yourverynextstep.com.

*** Have you noticed how many roadside rest areas are closed to save

money?

*** Off season.From Bruce Blake:

Hi Ned –

Thanks for including me below.

Here's more:

What's your favorite “off season” destination?

I really enjoy going to Europe “off-peak”.

There are no crowds, the prices are much better, flights are plentiful,

and you won't have to worry about staying somewhere where there's no AC

as you might during the madness of high summer in the more heavily

touristed spots.

Walking to various sites is more fun when the weather is crisp. Sitting

by the fireplace in a cozy pub to warm up for a bit with your favorite

beverage, map and guide book can also add a bit of old world charm to an

otherwise uneventful location or occasion.

Besides, you probably aren't going to London or Paris for the beaches,

right…? But do check opening hours if there's a museum or other

attraction you MUST see, as these are often open with limited hours from

late fall to late spring.

*** There were massive air travel delays over the holidays, from

weather to airport lockdowns. Did you experience this? Can you share

your story with YVNS?

*** Up Helly Aa:

The abiding influence of the Vikings, who arrived in Shetland just over

1000 years ago, is celebrated on the last Tuesday of January every year,

by the largest fire festival in Europe – “Up Helly Aa”.

Actual participants must have been a resident in Shetland for five years

before they can take part in a squad and the procession.

Up Helly Aa is a tradition that originated in the 1880s. Since then the

festival has been an annual occurrence in the Shetland calendar. The

festival is cancelled by exception, the following dates record when and

why:

1901 Death of Queen Victoria

1914 to 1919 First World War

1940 to 1948 Second World War

Their have also been postponements as listed below:

1900 2 weeks due to influenza

1936 2 weeks due to death of George V

1965 1 week due to the death of Winston Churchill

After a torch-light procession of up to a thousand “guizers” through the

streets of Lerwick a full-size replica Viking longship is ceremonially

burned. The “guizers” and onlookers then repair to local halls for a

night of revelry, dancing and partying.

Summer visitors can get a flavour of this mid-winter extravaganza at the

Up Helly Aa exhibition in Lerwick where the regalia, props, costumes

and a replica longship are on display.

The villagers spend four months building the ship, or galley as it is

called, and as it goes up in flames in the winter night the crowd sings

'The Norseman's Home'.

For safety reasons, spectators must refrain from distracting guizers

when they are carrying burning torches. Who doesn't like parades,

Vikings, bag pipes and fire??

http://www.shetlandtourism.com/pages/up_helly_aa.htm

http://www.uphellyaa.org/

*** Ned is offering free 468×60 pixel .jpg banner ads at the YVNS

website for conservation organizations (Ned will decline this offer to

organizations that conduct or promote illegal activities). Contact Ned

at lundquist989@cs.com for details. Well, actually, those are the

details. 468×60 pixel .jpg. or gif. With your url. And it's free.

*** Here's the YVNS Travel News for December:

U.S. imposes 3-hour limit on tarmac strandings

Washington Post

New rules also require airlines to provide adequate food and water for

passengers within two hours of the delay.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/?nid=top_gog

Airport Kiosks do Nearly Everything but Check Luggage

Link to article in the Los Angeles Times:

http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-briefcase5-2009dec05,0,3607899.story

The Transportation Communications Newsletter is published electronically

Monday through Friday.

To subscribe send an e-mail to: i95berniew@aol.com

AOL Also Likely to Eye Sale of MapQuest — Is Microsoft a Possible

Buyer?

Link to article on All Things Digital:

http://kara.allthingsd.com/20091119/aol-also-likely-to-eye-sale-of-mapquest-is-microsoft-a-possible-buyer/

*** Web Application Gives Air Travelers Chance to Rate Airport Security

Procedures

Link to article on NextGov:

http://www.nextgov.com/nextgov/ng_20100104_3443.php

Link to news release from On the Spot Systems:

http://www.onthespotsystems.com/press/

*** Mark Sofman says:

Remember that ultimate gig in Australia?

Check this out: http://tinyurl.com/yemapgz

*** Nuvigil from Cephalon, could become the first medicine specifically

approved by the Food and Drug Administration to combat jet lag.

You Can Watch Live as Boeing's 787 finally takes flight

Link to article in The Herald:

http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20091214/BIZ/712149905/1005

Link to site: http://787firstflight.newairplane.com

*** Dulles Chaplin Walks Miles Helping Travelers, Airport Workers on

Christmas Eve

Link to column in The Washington Post:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/12/24/AR2009122403092.html

Link to Washington Dulles International Airport Chapel:

http://www.airportchapels.com/wst_page4.html

*** Highway Signs Stir Up a Snicker

No Amish here, folks point out.

Link to article in the Columbia Daily Tribune:

http://www.columbiatribune.com/news/2010/jan/02/signs-stir-up-a-snicker/

*** U.S. fliers sample “exotic” service on fifth-freedom routes

http://www.usatoday.com/travel/flights/2009-12-07-foreigntravel07_ST_N.htm

(Via SmartBrief:

http://r.smartbrief.com/resp/tzuojurODtzyaUfCcWhscNxcJZ)

FIFTH-FREEDOM ROUTES

Among major foreign airlines' “fifth-freedom” routes:

. Philippines Air: Las Vegas-Vancouver

. Korean Air: Los Angeles-Sao Paulo; Los Angeles-Tokyo

. Air New Zealand: Los Angeles-London Heathrow

. Kuwait Airways: New York JFK-London Heathrow

. South African Airways: Washington Dulles-Dakar, Senegal

. LAN: Toronto-New York JFK

. Air India: Newark Liberty-Frankfurt; Chicago O'Hare-Frankfurt

. Air Tahiti Nui: Los Angeles-Paris Charles De Gaulle

. Jet Airways: Newark Liberty-Brussels

The term “fifth freedom” stems from the nine air-rights “freedoms” that

countries typically negotiate in their bilateral aviation agreements.

Some of the so-called freedoms are more straight-forward than others.

The first freedom, for instance, simply grants the right for a nation's

airlines to fly across the airspace of another. For example, the U.S.

aviation pact with Canada gives U.S. carriers the first-freedom right to

fly across Canada on their way to Europe or Asia.

The fifth freedom, which allows the unusual U.S. flights coveted by

airline enthusiasts, is somewhat more complicated. But, in simple terms,

it allows the a carrier of one country to sell tickets on a flight

between two other countries as long at least one leg of the journey

begins or ends in the carrier's home country.

For example, Kuwait Airways has fifth freedom to carry passengers from

New York to London because its part of a Kuwait Airways service that

continues on to its home nation of Kuwait after the stop in London.

But because some nations' flight agreements are more restrictive than

others, fifth-freedom flights are not allowed between just any set of

countries. Because the complexity of overlapping aviation pacts often

restricts options for fifth-freedom routes, they tend to be fairly

unusual.

*** What do you think about taking your dog on a long hike or

backpacking trek in the back country?

*** Trail volunteer opportunities

Enjoy the beauty of the Hank Aaron State Trail and make a real

difference by volunteering with the Friends of Hank Aaron State Trail.

Through the Friends, many volunteer opportunities are available for any

schedule to help maintain and improve the Trail.

The Trail is ideal for bicyclists, walkers, runners, and skaters, and

currently provides a 7-mile continuous connection via dedicated trails

and marked streets between the lakefront and Milwaukee's west end. The

Trail starts at Lakeshore State Park near the Henry W. Maier Festival

Grounds, winds its way through the Historic Third Ward and Menomonee

River Valley, past Miller Park, and ends in Doyne Park. Both ends of the

Trail link to Milwaukee County's 96-mile Oak Leaf Trail, making it

possible to bike from Lake Michigan, along several trails across the

state, and eventually link to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and

Military Ridge State Trail.

http://www.hankaaronstatetrail.org/volunteer-opportunities.html

*** Trekking poles:

I've threatened to get these many times. Some of my friends swear by

them.

What do you think? Gimmick or essential gear?

*** From Jim Stewart:

Ned asked for my thoughts on the need for trek poles. A well-balanced

and robust person like Ned likely would not know the difference with or

without poles. Not being the same as Ned, I have knees that tend to

swell after downhill trails and I make occasional slips on rough trails,

I have found trek poles to be an indispensable aid to hiking. The

makers can quote what their research has shown on overall decrease in

knee stress; I can just say they help me – a lot. A bonus off the trail

has been their use to prop up my backpack or use to hold up a trail tarp

shelter. Bottom line for me is that trek poles are essential gear, for

Ned, they could be a gimmick.

Jim Stewart

(All true. Jim has even used his poles to safely remove a 13-rattle

rattler from the rocky trail in front of our Scouts.)

*** Plan ahead:

Hi Ned,

This email is timely since I'm current at 38,000 feet returning to

Toronto from a Nevada (work) & California (play) excursion.

I definitely like to plan ahead, and seek out the less travelled path.

The great thing about travelling is to meet the locals and eat and drink

like they do. One tip that I'm going to start implementing is if the internet

is available, why not spend a couple extra hours on the plane scouting

out new options before you land.

Cyrus Mavalwala, ABC

*** The January YVNS sport Ned has never heard of:

Land Diving in Vanuatu

Combining risk with religion is all the rage on Pentecost Island in the

South Pacific nation of Vanuatu. Land diving is a springtime ritual:

males tie their feet up to liana vines (when they're at their most

elastic), then swan-dive 35 meters. The goal: to have their shoulders

touch the ground (and not die)-doing so, they say, ensures the earth's

fertility. If it sounds like bungee jumping, it was the inspiration:

Land diving footage captured by David Attenborough and the BBC in the

1950s led to the bungee's popularization.

http://www.forbestraveler.com/luxury/worlds-craziest-sports-slide-6.html?partner=playlist&thisSpeed=25000

*** Travel/Adventure/Outdoors employment opportunities:

1.) Naturalist, Allen Marine Tours, Sitka, Alaska

Requires public speaking ability and experience using PA systems.

Develop tour narrative and conduct natural history presentations for

groups of up to 100 passengers. Assist passengers boarding &

disembarking; provide safety and emergency orientation; and work as a

team member to distribute snacks and maintain impeccably clean vessel at

all times. Biology and natural history background helpful.

In Sitka, we conduct a variety of tour programs, including: the Sea

Otter & Wildlife Quest (3 hour cruise), the Jet-Cat Wildlife Quest &

Beach Exploration (3 hour cruise & wilderness hike), and the Bear Cove

Cruise & Salmon Hatchery Tour (2 hour cruise & walking tour). Our tours

are designed to explore, observe and learn about the natural history and

wildlife of coastal Southeast Alaska, and to provide insight into the

history and cultures of the people who live here.

We presently operate eight vessels based in Sitka. They are high-speed,

waterjet-powered vessels (built in our own Sitka shipyard) that have

been specially designed to enhance our guest's comfort and tour

experience. Depending on size and passenger capacity, each vessel

operates with a 2-5 person crew. Crew hired prior to the start of our

regular season participate in our comprehensive, paid-training program.

Many of our crew and support staff return to work with us season after

season. Some work in similar “outdoor adventure” jobs, in other parts of

the world, during the winter months.

http://www.allenmarinetours.com/contact/jobs/openings/sitka.html

2.) Instructor, Pok-O-MacCready Outdoor Education Center, Willsboro,

New York

High Adventure, Team Building, Living History, and Earth Science on 300+

acres of pristine wilderness. Live, work, and play in Adirondack Park!

Now hiring creative instructors and interns for the Spring of 2010. Long

term positions available.

http://www.coolworks.com/profile/pok-o-maccready-outdoor-education-center/outdoor-jobs

3.) Grant Writer, Montana Outdoor Science School, location negotiable

http://www.execsearches.com/non-profit-jobs/jobDetail.asp?job_id=19672

4.) Ecologist – Natural Resource Damage Assessments – NEPA, Sequence

Systems, Denver, Colorado

http://denver.olx.com/ecologist-natural-resource-damage-assessments-nepa-iid-64260624

5.) Guide/Driver, Sockeye Cycle Co., Skagway, Alaska

http://www.cyclealaska.com/history.html

*** From Mark Sofman:

6.) Full time Assistant Innkeeper, Stonewall Jackson Inn~B&B,

Harrisonburg, Virginia

I am looking for a mature full time person or couple assist in the

operation and management of this thriving 10 room Inn. While I am

looking for an experienced assistant(s) Innkeeper, a mature

inexperienced person(s) with good allied experience to train would be

considered, however, they must have the aptitudes and personal qualities

that match the profile of successful B&B Inn Keepers. A two week

volunteered work sample/probationary period is required as part of the

post interview successful application process. This will insure that the

applicant and the Inn will have an informed basis for any employment

contract and compensation package that is negotiated.

On-site lodging is required and is provided as part of the compensation

package in a new apartment on the first floor of the Inn. Free Lodging

will be provided to all applicants who are doing their voluntary work

sample during the probationary period. If hired, monetary compensation

will be in the form of a salary at the management level for assistant

Innkeepers, or at a training level for inexperienced innkeepers. Salary

levels will be negotiated depending on your interview and work sample

qualifications and will be competitive with the going rate for B&B

cottage industry.

Initial work sample duties involve mastery of housekeeping procedures,

taking telephone and on-line reservations, serving breakfast on our

outdoor patio/deck, checking guests in and out, interacting with and

assisting the guests, helping with luggage, giving directions and/or

making reservations at one of the local restaurants, concerts, or

University functions. Working smoothly with our Inn keeping Interns, my

Administrative Assistant, and myself as the Owner/Innkeeper as a

Hospitality Team Member is critical. In general, you will be presented

with typical Inn keeping task performance situations with all the

different team members,

As you can see from our website (www.StonewallJacksonInn.com) , as the

owner I am the only on-site Experienced Innkeeper and Manager of this

beautiful Inn located in the Gateway to downtown Harrisonburg. If you

have dreamed about working in upscale surroundings with other

well-trained and easy going staff, this may be a dream-come-true for

you. But as the entire hospitality team interacts with the Guests, we

want only smiling faces that project “I love this job!” & I want to make

you happy!

So, the initial qualities you need are;…to be well-groomed, neat,

clean, good health, agile, energetic, and eager to work; be able to lift

40lbs, negotiate 3 flights of stairs easily, clean with attention to

detail, have a “green thumb”, make windows shine, and feel at home doing

all the tasks of a well run Inn and be a responsible team player. If you

wish to apply, please send me your portfolio which would consist of: an

appropriate resume, a helpful narrative personal history and description

of your situation, why you think you would like living and working at

this B&B,. A picture would be helpful, but is not necessary. I will

respond to all such applications with a telephone interview. Remember,

you must be willing to volunteer a non-paid, “try-out” two week

work-sample at the Inn at your convenience, working with our great

Hospitality Team . Then, if selected you will be offered and employment

contract.

We have a beautiful place and have a winning Hospitality team. If you

are mature, like responsibility and have the “Right Stuff”, we would be

happy to have you as an Inn Keeping team member. We enjoy what we do.

You won't get rich, but you will have a good job and lots of fun! Be

advised that, being an Inn Keeper is a position and professional career,

not just a job. If you have the dream and the “Right Stuff” The

Stonewall Jackson Inn can make things happen for you!

http://regionalhelpwanted.com/Search/detail.cfm?SN=252&ID=25448082&jexp=3

7.) Front Desk Supervisor, Jasper Mountain Park Lodges, Jasper,

Alberta, Canada

http://www.mpljasper.com/imagedir/File/FDSupervisor%2008.pdf

9.) Public Affairs Specialist, Natural Resources Conservation Service,

Department Of Agriculture, Albuquerque, NM

http://jobview.usajobs.gov/GetJob.aspx?JobID=85026250

11.) Spa Therapist, The Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa, Emirates Hotels &

Resorts, Wolgan Valley, Australia

Emirates Hotels & Resorts is the premium hospitality division of the

Emirates Group, our vision is to offer the kind of experience that

exceeds the expectations of even the most seasoned world traveller. To

do this, we focus on three key ingredients: service, luxury and

location.

We believe that our levels of service must be second to none, we believe

that luxury means more than material things and we believe that

locations are as important as the resort themselves.

The Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa, our first Australian Resort, due to open

October 2009,is set in the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area

with unbeatable views of the mystical Blue Mountains and promises guests

a once-in-a-lifetime wilderness experience.

Spread out at the foot of towering sandstone cliffs, this luxurious

homestead-style resort is set amongst 4,000 acres of protected

conservation reserve area. Up to 90 guests are catered for in 40

free-standing suites each with private swimming pool and a main

homestead with luxury facilities and stand-alone Timeless Spa.

One of the world's few resorts neighbouring a World Heritage Site, the

Wolgan Valley project is the living embodiment of Emirates' dedication

to conservation, aimed to ensure the protection of endangered Australian

wildlife.

The Position:

To provide a full range of personalised and professional relaxation and

treatment services to guests. As the primary contact within the spa, the

job holder will be required to carry out health, beauty and spa

treatments in consultation and agreement with individual guests. Assess,

advise and provide comprehensive consultation and home recommendations

on treatments and a wide range of health and beauty products to

customers.

Job Outline:

.Carry out consultations and provide the full range of services offered

by the spa, and ensure that a creative, flexible, and proactive approach

is taken in the provision of the “wellness” services and treatments.

Actively promote the spa services, and sales of product ranges which are

retailed within the hotel/resort with integrity, honesty, and skill.

.To represent the image of Emirates Hotels & Resort services, its

ideals, and its policies by maintaining a groomed and professional

appearance in dealing with all visitors. At all times assist in the

promotion of the hotel/resort through guest contact and to ensure a

friendly, informal and polite relationship between guests and other

staff. The job holder should be up to date with all standards and

procedures maintained by the resort.

.Ensure that waste levels of products and materials are minimal thereby

keeping in line with the units overall expense budget.

.Be aware of the impact of treatments and services on the health, well

being, appearance, and medical conditions of guests. This aspect of the

individual services will need to be provided by maintaining the history

of any guests for any repeat visits by guests.

.A Proactive approach to ensure the guests experience is memorable by

participating in guest activities, as required, within the scope of

responsibilities.

Salary & Benefits: We offer our employees competitive remuneration

packages, as well as access to fully furnished accommodation. In

addition to this you will have free use of all staff facilities

including staff meals, gymnasium, swimming pool, outdoor BBQ area,

tennis court and basketball court. Within the Emirates Group you will

have career development supported by multi-million dollar training

facilities in Dubai, and e-Learning program's for those seeking a

long-term future in the Company

Experience and Qualifications: Degree in Health, Beauty or Fitness from

a recognised institute with a minimum of 4 years work experience as a

qualified therapist. In depth knowledge of the practices relating to the

physiology of treatments, health and beauty treatments, and all aspects

of health and safety. Additional written and spoken languages will be

preferred but not essential. The job holder should be organised and have

a structured approach to guest services. A thorough knowledge of

advanced First Aid is essential.

Must have the legal right to work and live in Australia. The Company

will not provide or assist with obtaining a work permit.

To Apply: To express your interest in the current vacancy or future

career opportunities please apply on-line by clicking below, and

complete our application form. We will then consider your application

and contact you should we wish to shortlist you for interviews. Should

you not receive an invitation for an interview within 5 weeks please

assume that on this occasion you have been unsuccessful. We will retain

your details for 12 months unless advised otherwise and re-consider you

for future opportunities as they arise.

https://ekgrpapplications.emirates.com/CareersOnlineApps/JOB_VACANCIES/JobVacancies.aspx

12.) Senior Program/Water Park Director, YMCA of Columbia South

Carolina-Metro, Columbia, SC

http://www.ymca.net/national_vacancy_list/?key=15483&city=&state=&title=communications&posted=&job_code=&salary=

“The universe is like a safe to which there is a combination, but the

combination is locked up in the safe.”

– Peter de Vries

*** Your Very Next Step is a service of the Job of the Week Network LLC

Edward Lundquist, ABC –

Editor and Publisher

Your Very Next Step

7813 Richfield Road

Springfield, VA 22153

Home office phone: (703) 455-7661

lundquist989@cs.com

www.nedsjotw.com

Subscribe for free. Send a blank email to:

yourverynextstep-subscribe@topica.com.

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Your Very Next Step newsletter for December 2009

Neds Job of the Week 12/06/2009

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Your Very Next Step newsletter for December 2009

“Let your mind start a journey thru a strange new world. Leave all thoughts of the world you knew before. Let your soul take you where you long to be…Close your eyes let your spirit start to soar, and you'll live as you've never lived before.”

– Erich Fromm

The next adventure begins with your very next step.

“Your Very Next Step” newsletter, published by Ned Lundquist, is a cooperative community, and everyone is invited, no…encouraged, no…urged to participate.

Subscribe for free. Send a blank email to:

yourverynextstep-subscribe@topica.com.

Send us your comments, questions, and contributions to lundquist989@cs.com.

You are now among 638 subscribers.

Contact Ned at lundquist989@cs.com.

*** In this issue:

*** Guided Tour or “On your own?”

*** Travel News

– Has the Stripper-mobile traveled a pole to far?

– Five Ways To Score Better Airlines Seats For Holiday Travel

– Complaints Against Airlines Fall Sharply

– Is It the End of the Line for London’s Iconic Tube Map?

– Frommer's Top Destinations 2010

*** Trail ethics

*** Trail volunteer opportunities

*** Trekking poles: What do you think?

*** YVNS “Sport Ned Has Never Heard Of”

– Camel wrestlers take their humps

*** Ned reviews US Airways and US Airways Express (Okay, this is an encore presentation)

*** Ned reviews the Peabody Hotel (ne the Excelsior) in Little Rock

Here’s a couple of places to visit, if you can:

– Bula'bula Arts – Australian Aboriginal Art Centre, Central Arnhem Land, NT, Australia

– Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument

*** Report-a-Poacher in Alberta

*** Travel, Outdoor and Adventure Jobs and Volunteer Opportunities

1.) Internships, The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, Boulder, CO

2.) Adventure Guide, Highland Center, Appalachian Mountain Club, Bretton Woods, NH

3.) Caretaker Vacancies on the Appalachian Trail in Maine, Maine Appalachian Trail Club

4.) Communications Coordinator, Alberta Conservation Association, Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada

5.) Roving Ranger, Baxter Park Campground, Baxter State Park, The State of Maine, Millinocket, ME

6.) Membership & Development Director, New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, Mahwah, NJ

7.) International Affairs Specialist, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department Of The Interior, Arlington, VA

8.) Forestry Technician (hotshot/handcrew), USDA Forest Service, AUGUSTA SPRINGS, VA

9.) Executive Director, Massachusetts Association of Conservation Districts, Massachusetts

10.) Field Team Leader (14 positions), Northwest Service Academy – Mt Adams Center, Trout Lake, WA

…and much more…and it’s all FREE!!!

*** Do you have a travel adventure to share?

Send me your stories and I’ll post in the “Your Very Next Step” and on the YVNS website (http://www.yourverynextstep.com/).

*** When visiting a new place, do you sign up for the guided tour, or strike out on your own?

Send your advice to Ned at lundquist989@cs.com for the next issue of Your Very Next Step. Subscribe for free by sending a blank email to yourverynextstep-subscribe@topica.com. Read the newsletter at www.yourverynextstep.com.

*** Guide or no guide, I’ll tear ‘em apart (with apologizes to the Cowardly Lion):

Depends on the point of my touring and the time I have.

I had no time to take the Westminster Abbey tour, but to stand in that

magnificent edifice and gaze down at Winston Churchill's marker was

sufficiently awesome and humbling, considering the millions of feet – and

whose feet – had trod those stones before me.

Striking out on my own with a map to sightsee for feature articles dozens of

interesting places in Japan was often more of an adventure than merely

boarding a train. It was also rewarding, considering I was writing a tour

guide for military and civilians to use.

On the other hand, there is something to be said for taking a guided tour,

such as the incredibly helpless feeling one might have sitting in the front

row on the upper deck of a bus hurtling through space in Paris streets

taking in the sights by wheel of the Cathedral of Notre Dame and the Louvre!

I do prefer my own touring – thank you, huge folding maps and Fodor guides –

because you can linger where you will and leave when you have seen enough.

But given another chance, I will take the Abbey tour next time!

Gwyneth J. Saunders

*** I shoulda been a cartographa:

I'm a map junkie – I prefer to scope out the place via maps or guidebooks or Google Earth ahead of time and then strike out on my own. I should have been a cartographer/geographer…..

Mark Sofman

*** From Angie Anderson:

Hi Ned!

When I go to a new place, particularly one where I am not a fluent speaker, I go on one of those hop on/hop off bus tours. I usually get a several day pass.That way, I get an overall view of the city and some sense of direction. Then I go back on my own and discover things that interest me and my transportation is available for a few days. Paris, London and Madrid offer great tours like this. I would guess that the same might be true of larger cities in our country. Maybe next time I go to Philly, I'll do the same…it's in my back yard, but I've not done something like this in the US. Wonder why?

Maybe sometime, you can have readers share Couchsurfing stories. I have a few that are delightful!

Travel often, and safely!

Cheers,

Angie Anderson

Lancaster County, PA

(My daughter and I recently heard you speak in Harrisburg and were thrilled to meet you in person!)

*** Third Option:

Do I strike out on my own or take the easy tourist option? Neither

Option 1: I swore, decades ago, never to take another “tourist tour.”

Why?

The reason is in this bit of conversation gleaned from a running five hour dialogue between two clodhoppers from Iowa (I was an Iowan at the time, too and probably a clodhopper as well.) sitting behind me while while taking the obligatory one-day bus tour of Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein and Switzerland: “Look, DeWain, them there apple trees look just like the ones back in I'wa.” “Look, Maudeen, them there Guernseys is jest like the ones the Hoopers own.”

Option 2: I'm directionally challenged and easily distracted. Alone, one can get lost in the Louvre or British Museum or the flea market in Athens never to be found again.

Option 3: So, the BEST next step is to find yourself a wealthy (ca. 1980s) multinational corporation that still provides first class airfare for its workers traveling abroad, and make friends with your counterparts in other countries. They'll be pleased to escort an interested American — note the modifier; it's really, really important — on a private — again, the modifier — tour of THEIR world. The best sites with the least number of folks from home; the best restaurants; the best secret shopping; the best of the best in their world.

Oh, for the glory days.

Mike Scott

*** When in Rome:

Ned:

Assume you are talking about recreational or tourist type trips.

We (wife & I) prefer doing it ourselves. Always have (like backpacking

in Italy, etc.) but we are also now getting to the age (early 70s)

with health and energy concerns. Hence, we would now seriously consider

tours/cruises–something we have always regarded with some distaste,

We also 'discovered' some tips: e.g. in Italy, take the Panoramic

Buses–not the express; the former take twice as long, but you meet

the real people of the country side you are traveling through. On the

latter, well, freeways all look alike!

Also, e.g. in Rome, my wife dictated we would pick the furthest away

point of what we planned to see that day, bus to that point, then walk

back to the accommodation.

Maybe a follow up or section on what people dislike about tours

would be worthwhile.

Also, of course it depends on the destination….safety can be a

concern in some spots as you well know!

Cheers

tom carney Texada Island B.C. Canada

(Is there another kind?)

*** It depends:

Great question. A constant traveler, I'll give my two cents:

As with everything in life…IT DEPENDS! On how much there is to see, how long you are visiting for, etc. In general, I'm happy to go with a cheap walking or bike tour…particularly the increasingly frequent ones in which the cost is technically free and the guides work solely for tips. Those can be great for orientation, for quick synopsis of “check in the box” (you can always go back to ones you really like), and for exercise.

Happy travels,

Dan Huvane

*** Vectoring in on 96 and 97:

i travel around the globe, and prefer to hike out on my own and discover the wonders and niches of the new place. i will be going soon to Malta and tunisia, making them the 96th and 97th countries I have trotted. Just 95 to go to get to every country on earth. A tour in a civilized city is better than trying to figure out how to vector the histories and archeological/anthropological sites most efficiently, but in wild country, it is preferable to go on one's own or with friends.

marion ds dreyfus

*** Something old and something new:

Hey Ed,

Here's my advise:

Everything depends on timing:

If it's a micro visit (only a day or part of a day) — hit a local museum

If you have a couple of days, I like to take a 3 hour tour of the area to get my bearings and to decide what to see/do. Tips from the guide often help pinpoint areas of interest, or areas that I would not have considered.

If I have the luxury of a longer visit I head out on my own–the discovery is part of the fun.

Cheers,

Tomi Holt

Tomi Holt Enterprises Public Relations

*** Gotta see them Jack-a-lopes!

I strike out on my own. It is so much more fun to discover things/places as opposed to being led there…

If I do not have any prior knowledge of a place, I head to a post card kiosk to get a sense of the “must see's”.

W Enright

*** From Gloria Walker:

Hi Ned,

When visiting a new place I generally strike out on my own because I've done some research into where I'm going and what I want to see. On occasion I've done a guided tour of a specific site in order to take advantage of all the information presented by the guides. In Florence I took guided tours because there was so much to learn about what I was seeing and the guide was an art historian who was wonderful. In Bangkok and Vietnam I've visited different places, usually with someone who knew the area, but toured the sites on my own. Many times what's on the guided tour isn't what I want to see and visiting on your own is much more of an adventure.

Cheers!

Gloria

*** Travel the trail less touristed:

Ideally, some of both unless I've had the time to do alot of research beforehand.

I hate those “stupid American tourist” buses you often find in Euro capitols, but some are actually worthwhile in terms of what you can see, time saved, and costs relative to non-themed & guided public transport that would take you to the same places.

And once you have a good overview, you can then delve into the places that interest you with that much more knowledge and awareness.

That said, a good map, an open mind, and comfortable walking shoes will almost always take you to those same places (not to mention others that will probably be even more interesting by being less touristed), and often more quickly and cheaply.

So make a friend, ask questions, and meet the locals. After all, if you didn't want to, then why did you even go…?

Bruce Blake

(The road less touristed. I like it.)

Indeed.

Viva Via Vuoto! 🙂

*** Favorite off-season place to be:

(What’s your favorite “off season” destination? Send to Ned at lundquist989@c.com.)

*** Ned is offering free 95×600 pixel .jpg banner ads at the YVNS website for conservation organizations (Ned will decline this offer to organizations that conduct or promote illegal activities). Contact Ned at lundquist989@cs.com for details. Well, actually, those are the details. 95×600 pixel .jpg. And free.

*** Here’s the YVNS Travel News for December:

*** Has the Stripper-mobile traveled a pole to far?

http://www.vegaschatter.com/story/2009/11/13/115141/40/vegas-travel/What_s_So_Wrong_With_The_Stripper_Mobile_Aside_From_The_Obvious_

*** Five Ways To Score Better Airlines Seats For Holiday Travel

http://www.jaunted.com/story/2009/11/18/8915/4211/travel/Five+Ways+To+Score+Better+Airlines+Seats+For+Holiday+Travel

*** From Bernie Wagenblast’s TCN newsletter:

Complaints Against Airlines Fall Sharply

Critics say the reason isn't better service; it's that frustrated passengers have given up voicing grievances.

Link to Tribune Newspapers article:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-tc-biz-trav-complaints-1121-nov26,0,421005.story

Link to Air Travel Consumer Report from US DOT:

http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov/reports/2009/November/200911ATCR.PDF

Is It the End of the Line for London’s Iconic Tube Map?

Link to article in the Guardian:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/artanddesign/2009/nov/26/london-tube-map-design

*** Frommer's Top Destinations 2010. As in years past, they represent a mix of emerging spots, under-appreciated cities, and places we think you need to experience before they're overrun by tourist crowds. Click through to find out where the Frommer’s authors, editors, and readers are looking forward to visiting next year.

Ned has been to six of the ten. How many have you been to?

*** Trail Ethics:

YVNS wants to hear your perspectives and expectations on trail and camping ethics. What is appropriate behavior? A lot of people go far off the beaten path to do as they please, only to find somebody else there who complains about them. Others make a considerable effort to go far off the road to carry their coolers of beer, then lightening their load considerable by leaving their beer cans where they drank them (okay, maybe throwing them some distance first). Some want to enjoy a peaceful walk on a crisp autumn day only to be shot at by hunters. Some want the solitude of camping in the wilderness only to find themselves parked next to an R/V with floodlights, stereo, and a noisy generator. Some go camping with the family to find themselves camped next to an all-night party with sex, drugs and rock and roll.

This next issue of YVNS will look at differing view of proper behavior and outdoor etiquette. We'd like to hear your thoughts on the issue, and examples where you have been in unusual or unacceptable situations, and what you did about them.

Send your contributions to Ned at lundquist989@cs.com.

Here are some interesting views on the subject:

*** Ethics & Low Impact Camping

As backpackers hiking in the back country, we practice the Outdoor Code, and follow the principals of “Leave no Trace.” My backpack has a tag on it with these reminders from Philmont Scout Reservation with survival tips, the Outdoor Code and the principals of 'Leave No Trace.”

Philmont Wilderness Pledge

Philmont is a magnificent wilderness camping area with an immense network of trails and camps tied together by service roads designed for service and protection of both campers and land.

Since 1938, thousands of young people have enjoyed the great scenic beauty of Philmont's mountain terrain and experienced the unique and memorable programs of its staffed camps. However, in the past, a number of inconsiderate and impolite Scout campers employing improper camping methods have marred certain areas of this magnificent land. Consequently, Philmont asks all campers and their advisers to commit themselves to good Scout camping and genuine wilderness understanding.

Each camper and adviser will be asked to sign the Philmont Wilderness Pledge, which declares that he or she will do everything possible to preserve the beauty and wonder of the Philmont wilderness and facilities through good Scout camping. It is expected that Philmont campers will carry this pledge to all camping areas that they might visit throughout America.

Wilderness Pledge

The major areas of emphasis involved in the Philmont Wilderness Pledge are:

Litter and Graffiti

Each camper should make sure that all trails and campsites are left neat and clean, including Camping Headquarters shower and tent areas.

While litter can be picked up, graffiti often permanently defaces BSA property and detracts from the Philmont experience. Do not contribute to this problem.

Wildlife

Respect Philmont's wildlife and livestock. Follow all guidelines regarding food handling and trash disposal. Never feed or harass wild animals.

Water

You are in a land where water is scarce and very precious. Conservation and wise use of water have been practiced since the first person entered this land. Use water properly; never bathe or do laundry or dishes in or near a spring or stream. Do not disturb or throw rocks in springs, or touch any solar pumps. They are easily damaged and the flow of water can be disrupted. Everyone needs water, and you should leave each spring and stream as clean as you found it.

Trails

Pledge to respect Philmont trails. Do not cut green boughs or trees, or mark on them. Do not cut across switchbacks, and do not alter or change trail signs.

Campsites

Each crew is responsible for leaving a neat and orderly campsite, whether it be in Camping Headquarters, staffed camps, or non-staffed camps. Your campsite should be left litter-free with its latrine and sump clean. Fires, if permitted, must be left DEAD OUT and then cleaned of debris before you leave. Do not trench tents; pitch them on high ground. You should respect the feelings of those crews camping near you and those that will come after you.

Philmont serves over 20,000 Scouts, Venturers, and leaders each year. Consequently, some trails and camps are subjected to heavy use. Nevertheless, it is not the wear of so many pairs of boots that mars Philmont. It is the carelessness and thoughtlessness of inconsiderate campers. It is our sincere hope that through your commitment to the Philmont Wilderness Pledge, Philmont will always remain a beautiful and clean place to enjoy high adventure.

Artifacts

Philmont is a natural outdoor biological, geological, archaeological, and historical laboratory and museum. Countless varieties of rocks, plants, and animals are found here, as well as abundant evidence of past human habitation from prehistoric Indians (arrowheads, pot shards, grinding stones, etc.) to old mining camps (bottles, cans, equipment, cabins, etc.).

Specimens of plants, animals, or artifacts, such as mentioned above, are to be observed and left where you discover them, not collected and removed from Philmont. Reports of discoveries are helpful in reconstructing Philmont's archaeological and historical past. These should be put in writing and left at the Philmont Museum.

http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/HighAdventure/Philmont/Hikers/wilderness.aspx

*** Leave No Trace

Plan Ahead and Prepare | Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces | Dispose of Waste Properly | Leave What You Find |

Minimize Campfire Impacts | Respect Wildlife | Be Considerate of Other Visitors

http://www.lnt.org/programs/principles.php

*** Ethics & Low Impact Camping

http://www.backpacking.net/ethics.html#thetrail

*** What do you think about taking your dog on a long hike or backpacking trek in the back country?

*** From Hwee Suan Ong:

my colleague's sister did this as a school project. she wrote the song and produced the video herself. i thot she is awesome.

*** Trail volunteer opportunities

*** Become a Crew Leader with Volunteers for Outdoor Washington:

VOW trains volunteers to be stewards of the environment, and partners with land managers to build trails, restore habitat, and preserve Washington State's rich heritage.

http://www.trailvolunteers.org/

*** Help save the trees from invasive weeds on the Capital Crescent Trail in Maryland:

Help save the magnificent native trees along the Capital Crescent Trail. English ivy vines cover the trees, slowly killing the trees from the base upwards. The vines also harbor a bacterial leaf scorch that affects a wide variety of native and ornamental trees. Other invasive vines completely engulf the trees, shading them out and overburdening them with added weight, causing the trees to topple. Volunteers work on this trail every week, rain or shine. The Coalition for the Capital Crescent Trail is an all-volunteer organization, with no paid staff and depends upon volunteers for all of its trail building and educational efforts.

http://www.cctrail.org/Volunteer.htm

*** Mountain bikers are people, too:

Mountain Bike organizations also seek to improve and maintain trails:

Santa Barbara Mountain Bike Trail Volunteers

http://www.sbmtv.org/

*** Trekking poles:

I’ve threatened to get these many times. Some of my friends swear by them.

What do you think? Gimmick or essential gear?

*** Outdoor Gift Idea: an AMC trail sign

I saw this on the trailspace.com website.

http://www.trailspace.com/blog/2009/12/03/amc-trail-sign.html

Every year the AMC's White Mountain Trail Crew replaces weathered or out-of-date trail signs with new ones. The old signs are collector's items, having guided thousands of visitors for many years along celebrated paths throughout the Whites. All proceeds from the auction will support AMC's trail efforts in the Northeast.

The auction is closed for this year, but might make a gift to plan on next year, especially if you've been up on those trails.

http://www.outdoors.org/conservation/trails/auction/index.cfm

*** The December YVNS sport Ned has never heard of:

Camel Wrestling Championship. January, 2010. Selcuk, Turkey

http://www.bigloveturkey.com/culture/festivals-camel-wrestling.asp

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camel_wrestling

*** A place you should visit:

I stumbled across this artists cooperative and museum and was impressed enough to want to buy some of the Australian aboriginal art. Check this out for yourself:

Bula'bula Arts – Australian Aboriginal Art Centre

Ramingining is a small, remote community in Central Arnhem Land located some 400 kms east of Darwin and nearly 30 kms from the Arafura Sea. The tract of land upon which Ramingining township is built, is owned by the Djadawitjibi people of the Djinang group.

Their principal creative being is Garrtjambal, the Red Kangaroo. Travelling from the south-east in the Roper River region across the mainland and over to Milingimbi, Garrtjambal links all the land-owning groups in the region.

The name Bula'bula was selected in 1989 by local artists for their co-operative as it refers to the message embodied in the song-cycle of Garrtjambal's journey from Roper River to the Ramingining region. More literally, Bula'bula translates as the tongue, or voice of the kangaroo.

http://www.bulabula-arts.com/Site/

*** Here’s a place to visit, if you can:

Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument

http://www.fws.gov/midway/monument.html

*** A travel memory from JOTW 26-2001:

*** Well, three nights in the New York Hilton, and I’ve got enough shampoo and conditioner to last two weeks! Soap for a month! I always leave the shower cap so it doesn’t look like I’m cleaning them out…I don’t like the straight lye they give you at some hotels in Europe. And those European hotels often have little skinny towels that absorb nothing. Sometimes the shampoo is also the soap. You get a little foil packet of “Shower Douche” or something like that (here, that word means something else), which is dreadfully useless. And their electricity is all wrong. Any of you JOTW readers also “collect” the shampoos and stuff at hotels?…certainly not…And hotels in general, why do they put the towels in the shower? And what is “French Milled Soap?”

*** And these notes from JOTW 26-2001 Add 1:

*** New York Hilton? I pipe my gripe.

Alright, I confessed to taking those little shampoo bottles. And, after

my first mini-pot of coffee, I might occasionally hold the other bag

(not the decaf) in case I need another pot sometime during my stay. I

had no idea they would charge me. Seems the second pouch of coffee is a

mini-bar item. My hotel bill had a $10.28 charge, and it was for the

coffee since I make it a rule never to unlock the mini-bar in my room.

I also used the phone to make toll-free calls to log onto the Internet.

No problem. I called the hotel Customer service” number, and they said

to just dial 9 first. But, I had no idea that after a while they double

the charge of the call, or triple it.

My third gripe is the concierge who, when asked about a close-by

restaurant for a reasonably priced light meal, sent me to a place called

Tino's. “Make sure you tell them the Hilton sent you.” When we

arrived, we were seated. We ordered a bottle of mineral water and

decided that the entrees were very pricey. So we settled on a nice

appetizer or a salad for each of us. “Is that all,” the waiter kept

saying, as if nothing like this had ever happened before. He was

incredulous. He went and reported the gross transgression to the Capo,

who summoned the Capo di Capo, who came over and said, “We have a

problem. We're a fine dining establishment. We can't have people

coming in here and ordering cake, and a cup of coffee.” I replied that

we had not ordered cake, but that we had asked the hotel to recommend a

nice place close to the Hilton where we could get a light meal that was

reasonably priced and this is where he sent us.” This did not matter,

as they simply could have people coming in and ordering cake, or a

salad. I laid it out. He had two choices. Serve us, or settle the

bill. He refused to serve us. I state for the record that it was late,

the restaurant was not very busy, and even our salad or appetizer would

have been more than $10 each, and they would have made a few bucks.

My friends from IABC Delaware, Irene Monley and Nancy Sherr, and I had

sushi in a little Japanese restaurant a few doors down, decorated with

fishing rods and completely empty, which is why we were seated on the

second floor all the way in the back. Upon returning to the hotel, I

wanted to report the discrepancy to the concierge, but his watch was

over. I told a few people in the bar about what had happened, and one

of them had said he had eaten at Tino's the night before (recommended by

the concierge) and a few of the people in the party wanted to split an

entree and were told that it wasn't allowed and that the wait staff had

been very rude.

Ned says: Only use one pot of coffee. Double check about the charges

for toll free calls if you are going to be connecting online for any

time. And don't eat at Tino's. After saying this in a somewhat public

way, I expect some guy named Victor to come to my house, but shame on

them, and shame on the hotel for recommending that place. And shame on

Victor for showing me and my family disrespect.

*** From JOTW 26-2001 Add 3:

*** Travel update

I’ve had several trips lately that were pretty good. Flights on time,

comfortable and maybe even get an extra bag of pretzels if I was nice to

the flight attendant. But you have good days and bad days, and last

Wednesday was one of those days. Here are my notes:

I took the Metro instead of driving to the airport today as there was

yet another colossal traffic delay today. The “Mixing Bowl” interchange

between Interstates 95, 395 and 495 and the Woodrow Wilson Bridge where

the Washington Beltway (95/495) crosses the Potomac River between

Virginia and Maryland, are notorious bottlenecks. Anything can cause a

massive jam in both directions, but occasionally you get a mess that is

truly memorable. Once I had to take a distant and slow detour to avoid

the Wilson Bridge because some guy was threatening to jump off of it.

He finally did. But it was too late to prevent one of the worst traffic

jams in DC history. It was worse than gridlock. I’ve seen gridlock,

and gridlock’s not half bad.. And who could forget the time truck full

of gunpowder overturned at the Mixing Bowl, causing backups in all

directions and evacuations of homes for several miles around. Today’s

super-snafu was an overturned tank truck carrying liquid tar. All over

the road!

This trouble was avoided, but my turn was coming.

My flight from Washington’s Reagan National Airport was okay. It was

listed as a snack flight. I got one bag of pretzels. That does not

constitute a snack in my estimation.

I grabbed some lunch in Charlotte because I knew there would be no

service aboard the commuter jet to Little Rock. Still no problem. It

began while I awaited the departure of my connecting flight to Little

Rock. This flight was supposed to be aboard a 50-seat Regional Jet,

departing from the commuter Terminal D, a small but cramped facility.

More like a cluster of temporary buildings. The Little Rock flight was

delayed arriving, but I felt that I had a pretty good margin of error to

still arrive in time for the meetings and reception I had scheduled for

later that day. When the aircraft did arrive, the gate agent announced

that the pilot was reporting problems with the aircraft’s air

conditioning, a fact she later gave added emphasis when she said that

the pilot refused to fly the plane unless the air conditioning was

fixed.

I felt this was a good test of the new airline industry assurances that

they will be forthcoming on the status of delays. In this case, she

blamed the pilot. The departure was delayed again several times before

they suggested we go check with the customer service desk to arrange for

alternate routing.

We had to head back towards the main terminal. At the service desk,

those of us waiting to be rebooked guessed where we would be routed.

Atlanta, on Delta, one guy suggested. I thought Pittsburgh. The faces

of the agents betrayed no optimism. The people ahead of me were sent to

Kansas City. I got Nashville. Instead of getting in mid-afternoon for

my meeting today and reception, I’m now due in around 8:15. I called

the Excelsior Hotel and told them I’ll be arriving later. They reminded

me I already had a confirmed late arrival. I thanked them but wanted

them to make sure they knew I was still coming and would be late.

I go back to the trailer home terminal “building” containing gates D14

through 20. This is one of the US Airways Express gates. We’re talking

the gates for Florence, SC; Wilmington, NC; Charleston, WV; Jackson, MS

or NW Arkansas. I want to see if the plane is fixed and there was hope

for an earlier and direct flight. The atmosphere in that room was

oppressive. When they opened the doors for flights it let the noise and

the heat and humidity in. And half the time the alarms went off on the

doors. I enjoyed the people watching as I weighed the odds of my

luggage meeting me in Little Rock. The gate agent makes another

announcement for the Little Rock passengers. “We don’t know what the

problem is besides the air conditioning.” I still wait for the “C”

word. I sit next to three elderly ladies fanning themselves with their

ticket envelopes and across from two young doe-eyed girls, the older

(not by much) of which is wearing a tight top that says “Hottie.” At

3:20 p.m., they announce that the Little Rock flight is now cancelled,

and I proceed back to the customer service desk for a new boarding pass.

The airline was nice enough to give me a 22-unit phone card for my

inconvenience.

The good news is that my flight to Nashville is aboard a 737. The bad

news is the connecting flight to Little Rock is aboard a Beechcraft

1900, a small airplane that makes up for it by being noisy and

uncomfortable.

On the flight to Nashville I discover a few of my colleagues are also on

this flight, and were from Washington to Charlotte although I never saw

them until now. I hear Eleanor Miller on the cell phone letting

everyone know about our delay, including the office, the rental car

company, the hotel and our hosts in Little Rock.

The flight to Charlotte was listed as a snack flight. The flight to

Nashville is not a snack flight, but I ask the flight attendant for two

bags of pretzels (actually some kind of “premium blended snack mix”) and

she gives me three.

In Nashville, we have about a two-hour wait. I had to get something to

eat. My friends, it turns out, had been given $7 food vouchers at

Charlotte and had eaten. I was not offered this, but I was given a 22

unit MCI WorldCom phone card in case I had to call the hotel to let them

know I would be late.

Hopes rise as we see a real jet at the gate we’ll be departing from.

When it came time to leave, however, if you looked hard, you could make

out the little commuter plane hiding behind the fuel truck.

The Departure monitor showed a ten-minute delay. I thought this was the

airline’s way of preparing us for something worse. Then, it turns out

they had 24 passengers booked on a 19-seat plane. They offer a ticket

and a later connection from Nashville to Dallas and on to Little Rock

that would get in at midnight. Since my day was already screwed up, I

gave it some thought. They then told us that if we had a full load of

passengers that the bags would have to follow later. This was a new

threat I hadn’t heard before. On the plane, the diminutive gate agent

came on to tell us that the pot had been sweetened to a free ticket and

a hundred dollars. “What about two free tickets?” asked a passenger.

“How about a Lincoln Town car?” I say. The gate agent went back out to

parley. The pilot turned around and told us that they would have to

pick a passenger to get off, and then there would be no compensation

offered.

This time a much bigger, sterner looking gate agent came on, read the

verdict and directed the “lowest fare paying passenger” to get off, and

go to Little Rock by way of Atlanta. “Will I get the ticket?” the

passenger asked? I never saw her again.

Good news, I saw my bag make it on the plane.

We arrived in Little Rock at about the end of my 19-seat aircraft

endurance. My bag was waiting for me when I got to the baggage claim

area and our rental car check out was a breeze and we were able to find

the Excelsior Hotel with just a few miscues. I informed the desk clerk

that I was checking in. I gave him my credit card, and he asked me for

my name. I thought that was one reason I handed him the credit card.

He told me they had no rooms. I told him I had a confirmed late

check-in and that I had called the hotel mid-afternoon to let them know

my flight was late. I asked to speak to the manager who was not much

more help. I told him I had a confirmed late registration and that I

had called to report my late arrival from Charlotte. There was no

pathos. He said they had a hotel we could stay at that was ten miles

away, or they could give us a room with a fold-out bed.

Okay, I said, expecting a big knock-down in the price (wrong). In the

room, I find the couch, but it’s new and the bed is strapped in. I

called the desk but there was no answer, so I go down there and arrange

to have housekeeping bring a knife so I can get the bed open. Some

sheets, blankets and pillows would be appreciated, too.

Meanwhile, the damn Coke machine won't accept my nice, flat dollar bill.

I have to go to another floor. I'm getting happier by the minute. But

the sleeper sofa isn't too uncomfortable and I sleep okay.

*** If you recall the fiasco in the NYC Hilton charging me for those

little bags of coffee, I avoided that problem in Little Rock by having

no coffeepot in the room. Which brings me to this question?

Can you get a real cup of coffee in Little Rock?

On Thursday morning, I decided to get my 20-minute workout by walking

around Little Rock looking for a nice cup of strong, black coffee.

Never mind that it was raining. I set out, walking past the Old State

House and down what I though was one of the main streets. Broadway.

Turns out this was one of those Funky Broadways. I saw the Alpha Plasma

Center, next to the Ace Check-cashing, then the Minuteman Hamburgers.

This is known as the Arkansas Trifecta. I looked for the inevitable

liquor store that would complete the cycle, but didn’t see it. Crossing

the street, there was a bronze plaque. “On this site was erected the

first Minuteman Hamburger stand in 1947.” This must be Little Rock’s

answer to Plymouth Rock or the Alamo. Hallowed ground. I took off my

hat for a minute of reverence, then moved on. I really needed coffee.

I turned towards the big buildings. They were big enough so that you

couldn’t see their tops in the mist. No Starbucks. No Seattle’s Best.

Nothing. What about the smart people. They drink coffee. I briefly

wonder if there was a brain drain when Governor Clinton took his friends

to Washington, but I ruled that out.

Finally, I see “Your Mama’s,” but it wasn’t open. Then the Blue Plate

Special. I was their first customer of the day. One of the women there

was grinding something that looked like carrots. Yes, they were open,

and yes, they had coffee. I watched her pour the transparent brew into

my Styrofoam cup. Oh no, she said, “We ain’t got nothing like that

here,” when I asked about Starbucks. I thought briefly about following

up on her new “Wild Child” tattoo that she had screaming from her left

arm, but my discretion suddenly overcame my impulsiveness. I took my

coffee out into the rain and walked back past the hotel and down by the

riverfront. No fishermen, I noticed. In fact, I realized that I hadn’t

seen any homeless people. Maybe they took their plasma check, cashed

it, and had a Minuteman burger, then went home.

*** Before I went downstairs to meet my colleagues, the phone rang.

“Ms. Shirley?”

“No,” I said. They hung up. It rang again.

“Ms. Shirley, is that you?”

“No.”

“Who is this?

“What room are you calling?”

Click.

Phone rings again. I pick it up. “Ms. Shirley?”

“Yes, Honey?” I reply.

“We’ll meet you in the lobby.”

“Okay, darling. I’ll be right down,” I say in my best Ms. Shirley

accent.

Click.

We both won.

*** Report-a-Poacher:

The Alberta Conservation Association Report A Poacher (RAP) Program and is delivered in partnership with SRD.

Report A Poacher

Created in 1990 as a community-based program, the Report A Poacher (RAP) Program provides Albertans with an opportunity to help protect Alberta’s wildlife, fisheries and the habitat in which they live by providing a toll-free phone number (1-800-642-3800) in operation 24 hours a day, seven days a week to report suspected illegal activity.

In addition, RAP promotes both the value and importance of conserving Alberta’s wildlife and fisheries and a positive image of resource users.

http://www.ab-conservation.com/go/default/index.cfm/programs/report-a-poacher-and-compensation-programs/

*** Travel/Adventure/Outdoors employment opportunities:

1.) Internships, The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, Boulder, CO

http://www.lnt.org/aboutUs/internships.php

2.) Adventure Guide, Highland Center, Appalachian Mountain Club, Bretton Woods, NH

The year-round Adventure Guide is responsible for the delivery of all Highland Center programs and activities as well as other specialty programs at AMC destinations. The Adventure Guide will act as an interpretive and informational resource to guests at the Highland Center, providing high-quality customer service during non-program times. The Adventure Guide will hold a leadership role in the AMC programs department, assisting in training, supervision, and evaluation of seasonal Adventure Guide staff. The Adventure Guide will report to the Adventure Programs Manager and work with fellow staff and volunteers to develop and implement high quality educational and recreational programs for guests and visitors. The position is a year round, non-exempt hourly position reporting to the Adventure Programs Manager. This position comes with a very competitive benefits package including but not limited to: paid vacation, paid holidays, retirement program, health insurance, and paid sick time. Compensation will be based on experience.

Responsibilities

•Deliver outdoor and indoor education and/or recreation related programs in and around the Highland Center throughout the day, on topics ranging from natural and cultural history to backcountry safety and resource conservation

•Lead outdoor programs, including but not limited to: ½ day to full day and overnight hikes in the area in all types of weather.

•Deliver special programs, including but not limited to:

◦Themed weekend events at the Highland Center.

◦Family Adventure and 50+ Adventure Camp Programs

◦Holiday week premium programming during holiday vacation weeks.

◦Day long and multi-day overnight trips in the backcountry for groups.

◦Interpretive programs at the Bretton Woods Resort.

◦Teambuilding programs for groups

◦Outdoor skills programs including: map & compass, orienteering, camping, firemaking, and Leave No Trace.

◦Winter-specific programs including: Nordic ski clinics & tours, snowshoe clinics & tours, and winter camping/survival.

•Deliver short informative presentations daily to guests at breakfast and dinner.

•Assist in developing and maintaining passive educational materials, including program manuals, on-site libraries and games, self guided activities, posters and displays.

•Act as an interpretive resource for guests, visitors, volunteers, and staff when on duty.

•Prepare and submit all program reports and assignments as instructed. Cross-train in order to support other departments at the Highland Center, including front desk staff.

•Act as a leader in the Highland Center Programs Department, assisting in the training, supervision, and evaluation of seasonal staff.

•Assist with new program development, including designing weekend workshops and writing lesson plans for daily programs.

•Perform all other duties within the AMC as assigned.

Employment Standards

•At least 2 years of related program leading experience, including solid backcountry skills and experience, and demonstrated ability to lead groups in the outdoors.

•Practical and academic background in environmental education, natural history, or recreation is required.

•Strong leadership experience is required.

•Experience with curriculum or program development is required.

•Certification in WFR is required; WEMT is desirable. Ability to develop and lead all programs at all AMC destinations is required.

•Physical ability to travel to all AMC destinations in all weather conditions is required, carrying loads of up to 40 pounds in a backpack, hiking on unimproved trails.

•Strong organizational and written/verbal communication skills.

•Excellent guest service skills and a demonstrated commitment to AMC goals. W

•Willingness to work weekends, holidays, and evenings.

Benefits of Working With the AMC

The AMC offers a great benefits package! Here is a partial list that highlights some benefits offered for our regular full-time employees. Benefits may vary based on position.

•Group Health Plan, 75 percent employer paid.

•Group Life Insurance, 100 percent employer paid

•Long-Term Disability Insurance, 100 percent employer paid

•Vacation, three weeks accrued each year

•Holidays, 13 paid holidays/year

•Use of AMC Facilities, free and discounted rates

•Free AMC membership

The Appalachian Mountain Club is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes diversity in the workplace.

To Reply: Please send resume and cover letter to:

Sara DeLucia, Adventure Programs Manager

Highland Center at Crawford Notch

Route 302 Bretton Woods, NH 03575

603-278-3827 email: sdelucia@outdoors.org

http://www.outdoors.org/about/employment/adventure-guide-highland-center.cfm

3.) Caretaker Vacancies on the Appalachian Trail in Maine, Maine Appalachian Trail Club

Piazza Rock

Gulf Hagas

Abol

Horn's Pond

Caretaker Job Description:

To teach Leave No Trace principles to groups and individuals

To model and promote environmentally sensitive practices to the hikers on the AT

To manage high use camping sites on the AT

Specifically, the Caretaker will:

Live at camp sites near the AT

Meet, greet, register and provide information to hikers on the Appalachian Trail

Impart Leave No Trace information on backcountry practices on where to camp, how to protect water sources, water treatment, dish washing, fire regulations, etc.

Deliver educational presentations at campsites to hiking groups

Maintain a composting privy system and general site maintenance

Ridge run – hike north and south of the caretaker’s camp site on overnight trips – to perform the same tasks at other areas

Requirements:

A desire to teach Leave No Trace knowledge, skills and ethics

Responsible and enthusiastic individual with backpacking experience

Excellent communication and people skills

Good physical condition – able to hike with a 40 lb. backpack

Desire to live and work outside

Comfortable working and living alone

Reliable transportation and own arrangements for days-off housing

Dates: The position’s start dates vary from late May until early July. The end dates vary from early September to mid-October. Caretakers and Ridgerunners work either 10 days on/4 days off or 5 days on/2 days off. All positions work on weekends and holidays, days off are mid-week.

The MATC is a volunteer, not-for-profit, public service organization responsible for management, maintenance and protection of the Appalachian Trail in Maine.

Pay: Ranges from $10-$12/hour depending upon experience. Back packing and camping gear are provided for the season.

To Apply: Send your resume, cover letter and references to: Bill Millis/421 Azalea Lane Sidney/ME/04330; or by email to wemillis@gmail.com; phone (207) 465-7038. Applications accepted until the positions are filled with preference given to those received by January 15, 2010.

Winter employment, National Park Service, various locations

Winter employment with the National Park Service offers opportunities in the Western, Southwestern, Midwestern, Southeastern, and Mid -Atlantic regions, which all have active winter seasons. Among the parks offering wintertime employment are Death Valley, the Everglades, Joshua Tree, and the Virgin Islands.

http://www.jobmonkey.com/parks/html/nps_job_descriptions.html

4.) Communications Coordinator, Alberta Conservation Association, Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada

http://jobs.iabc.com/c/job.cfm?site_id=65&jb=6231735

5.) Roving Ranger, Baxter Park Campground, Baxter State Park, The State of Maine, Millinocket, ME

Scope of Work

This is maintenance, public relations and personal services work responsible for meeting the public and performing various tasks necessary to properly maintain and protect land, buildings, facilities and the natural resources within Baxter State Park at a specific campground, gatehouse, visitor center or surrounding areas. A person in this position will provide flexible and instant coverage for personnel who have illness, medical appointments, family scheduling conflicts – personnel who resign mid-summer to accept other positions, full-time employment or are terminated.

Typical Duties

Cleans toilets, patrols for litter.

Performs minor and routine maintenance on campground facilities.

Assists campers to find assigned sites.

Collects visitor use fees and accounts for same.

Patrols trails in vicinity of campground.

Trains/supervises other employees in connection with the operation of the campground.

Prepares facilities in the spring for season.

Drains water lines, puts shutters on for winter.

Assists visitors in deciding appropriate activities.

Assists Baxter Park Ranger I in other functions as assigned.

Assists in search and rescue operations and fire suppression.

Required Knowledge and Abilities

Considerable training and knowledge of people/resource management.

Considerable experience in camping, fishing, hiking, backpacking and other pedestrian recreational activities.

Ability to perform manual labor tasks, such as splitting and stacking wood, carrying injured persons in difficult terrain.

Ability to communicate effectively with Park visitor and fellow employees.

Ability to learn the use of a two-way radio system.

Ability to learn minor repair and maintenance procedures.

Ability to evaluate information from visitors in order to recommend appropriate recreational activities.

Knowledge of recreational opportunities and facilities in Baxter Park.

Knowledge of and familiarity with equipment required for different recreational activities in Baxter Park.

Ability to hike.

Knowledge of first-aid procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent and one (1) year experience in park maintenance and operation or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications

Three years/seasons of training/education/experience in recreation management or related field; AND one season of practical work experience in the operation of a wilderness recreation facility; AND considerable work experience which involved significant direct contact with the public.

Housing Information

JOB CODE: 9425

PAY RANGE: 12

SALARY: Hourly: $10.74 Bi-Weekly: $859.20 (Effective July 1, 2006)

Value of State-Paid Health and Dental Insurance: $310.74 bi-weekly.

Value of State's Share of Employee's Retirement: 18.54% of base pay.

Get an Application (PDF- requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)

Supplemental Questionnaire-required with Application (HTML)

Minorities encouraged to apply. Baxter State Park is an equal opportunity employer.

Send your application to:

Baxter State Park

Attn: Human Resources

64 Balsam Drive

Millinocket, ME 04462

(207)723-9616

6.) Membership & Development Director, New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, Mahwah, NJ

http://www.nynjtc.org/job-openings

http://www.nynjtc.org/files/MemDevDir.FINAL_.pdf

7.) International Affairs Specialist, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department Of The Interior, Arlington, VA

http://jobview.usajobs.gov/GetJob.aspx?JobID=84778997

8.) Forestry Technician (hotshot/handcrew), USDA Forest Service, AUGUSTA SPRINGS, VA

https://www.avuedigitalservices.com/casting/ai/control/blueViewVac;jsessionid=a13a53d930d521b960feedd24ccfbe1881312af560e3.e38PaNaKcheMbi0Ma3yTaxiLa34Pe0?vacancyIds=220164589

9.) Executive Director, Massachusetts Association of Conservation Districts, Massachusetts

http://www.execsearches.com/non-profit-jobs/jobDetail.asp?job_id=19500

10.) Field Team Leader (14 positions), Northwest Service Academy – Mt Adams Center, Trout Lake, WA

NWSA Mission: This position is in partnership with the Northwest Service Academy (NWSA), an AmeriCorps program of ESD112. NWSA's mission is to preserve and restore the natural environment, and to develop community leaders through service and community partnerships. www.northwestserviceacademy.org

Project Location: 2453 Hwy 141, Trout Lake, WA 98650

Position Summary: The Field Team Leader position is often described as the hardest job you will ever love. It requires the ability to work well with people, the aptitude to learn and teach new skills and the willingness to put the needs of the group ahead of your own. The Mt. Adams Center (MAC) employs a co-leader model with 2 leaders on every 6-person team. Leaders are responsible for creating a strong and collaborative team that can complete projects in a safe and efficient manner.

Leaders must be able to communicate well and be capable of creating respectful relationships with peers. Given that teams live and work together for the duration of the season, Leaders must also be able to uphold the standards of the program at all times and separate their personal lives from the professional.

This position is an opportunity for personal and professional growth. The initial 3 months of the program is dedicated to training and preparation for the main project season (Jun-Oct). Leaders participate in trainings on Wilderness Advanced First Aid, defensive driving, outdoor living skills, team management and professional communication. 6 weeks of the training will be spent in California gaining trail construction and maintenance skills. By the end of training, Leaders will be assigned a partner and a project site for the season. The next 6 months of service include member training, implementing projects and providing oversight. During this period the teams will operate independently from the MAC.

Team Summary: Mt. Adams field teams are composed of four members and two Team Leaders. Teams will be engaged primarily in trail restoration and construction projects but may also participate in additional projects which may include campground maintenance, native habitat restoration and forest fuel reduction. Teams work and travel throughout Washington, Oregon and California over the course of their term. Successful leaders enter the program with an open mind and eagerness to learn. Below are examples of field teams (all teams are subject to change for the 2010 season):

The Pacific Crest Trail Team works from northern California to northern Washington doing trail work exclusively on the PCT. Throughout the season, the team hosts volunteers and work with them on the trail.

The Mt. Hood Team works in the Zig Zag Ranger District of the Mt. Hood National Forest. The team lives in a historic Forest Service cabin and works on a variety of trails in a front country setting.

The Gifford Pinchot (GP) Team splits its time working on the Pacific Crest Trail and its feeder trails in both the Mt Adams District and the Cowlitz District of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

Residential Summary: Teams are either based out of the Mt. Adams Center in Trout Lake, Washington or at other satellite locations. Satellite teams will spend the majority of their term away from the Mt Adams Center, either camping at project sites for weeks at a time or living in housing located near their project site for the entire term. These teams may stay at the Mt Adams Center intermittently during training days or between projects. All team members assist with residential chores such as meal preparation, cleaning and recycling, both at the center and at camping sites.

General Responsibilities (to include, but not limited to):

1. Provide leadership and direction while serving alongside team members on projects.

2. Serve as a vital communication link between the Mt. Adams Center staff, project sponsors and field team members.

3. Troubleshoot logistical and personnel challenges with the support of the Mt. Adams Center staff.

4. Coordinate project and spike camp logistics with the support of the Mt. Adams Center staff.

5. Organize project related paperwork, including time sheets, project reports and receipts.

6. Encourage and empower team members' personal and professional growth through their service and member development activities.

7. Communicate program policies and procedures to members as needed and assist with program evaluation and development.

8. Facilitate and participate in regular meetings and trainings with team members and Mt. Adams Center staff.

9. Promote a sense of community, collaboration and cohesion among team members.

10. Develop, participate in, and motivate a diverse, hardworking team.

11. Assist in the planning and coordination of Mt. Adams Center events and service days.

12. Analyze projects and train members in appropriate safety practices.

13. Assist with residential chores such as meal preparation, cleaning and recycling, both at the center and at camping sites.

14. Complete and submit all necessary NWSA/AmeriCorps paperwork and reports in a timely manner.

15. Attend and complete all NWSA/AmeriCorps training and service requirements including orientation, trainings, team meetings and national service days.

16. Wear an NWSA uniform and/or appropriate identifiers and required safety gear while performing service or attending official events.

Position Requirements:

1. Capable of handling physical nature of the projects, from lifting up to 50 pounds to working on your feet outdoors in rugged terrain for 8+ hours a day.

2. Capable of safely driving a four-wheel drive vehicle.

3. Ability to work, communicate and interact well with people of various populations in a positive professional manner.

4. Open minded and eager to learn and teach a wide array of skills and procedures.

5. Participate in all aspects of the residential program, including living at the established site(s), completing household chores and helping create a positive, healthy living environment.

6. 21 years of age or older, at beginning of service term.

7. U.S. citizen, national or lawful permanent resident.

8. Possession of a high school diploma or equivalent, or commit to earning one prior to receiving an education award.

9. Ability to commit to the full term of service for which they are applying.

10. Must successfully pass a fingerprint criminal history background check provided through NWSA and/or Project Sponsor Agency.

11. Regular and reliable attendance.

12. Have not previously served two terms in an AmeriCorps*State or National program. Members may serve up to three terms in a National Service Program, but only two terms may be within an AmeriCorps*State or National program. Members are only eligible for an education award for their first two terms of service, regardless of the type of term (full or part-time) and regardless of the successful completion of that term.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Valid driver's license, with a clean driving record.

2. Demonstrated leadership ability.

3. Evidence of successful experience with similar programs and/or job functions. These may include: working with groups of youth or adults, facilitating programs of outdoor education, recreation, experiential learning, volunteer service or environmental issues.

4. Demonstrated ability to work with diverse groups of people.

5. Desire to gain outdoor recreation and leadership skills.

6. Highly motivated self starter.

7. Personal/professional experience in backcountry wilderness travel.

Member Benefits Include:

1. A total taxable living allowance (before taxes) of $11,400. Please note: each month a program fee of $476.00 is deducted from this amount to cover food, training and field trip expenses.

2. Upon successful completion of a term of service, eligible members/leaders receive an education award of $4,725.

The education award can be used to repay qualified student loans, for further education in an accredited institution of higher learning, vocational or trade schools. The education award is taxed in the year that it is used.

3. Loan forbearance (after successful completion of a term of service, AmeriCorps will pay the accrued interest on qualified loans, which is taxable).

4. Basic medical insurance (covers members only, not dependents; vision and dental not included).

5. Child care allowance for those who qualify.

6. Residential living accommodations are provided for this position, which may include bunkhouses, Forest Service housing, and front and backcountry campsites.

7. Wilderness Advanced First Aid Certification.

8. Chain saw Certification (class A and B).

9. Pro-deals on outdoor gear.

Transportation Information:

1. Organizational vehicle is available for service activities.

How to apply:

Step 1 – Complete your application in one of the following two ways:

Online at the AmeriCorps website AmeriCorps Application www.americorps.gov/Default.asp

If you do not already have a username and password, you must Create A Profile

https://my.americorps.gov/mp/login.do

-Once you have logged in, create an application by clicking “Applications” under the “My AmeriCorps” menu.

-To apply to this specific position, click “Search Listings” under the “My AmeriCorps” menu and search for program name Northwest Service Academy-MAC.

-Select the position listing and click “Apply Now” at the bottom of the page.

Step 2 – Send resume and cover letter to Amanda Green at mac@esd112.org.

Questions? Contact Amanda Green at 509-395-3465.

For more information please visit http://mtadamscenter.org/open-positions.cfm.

Application Deadline: Will occur as qualified applications are received.

NWSA Center: Mt. Adams Center

Interviews: Will interview as qualified applications are received.

Type of position: Field Team Leader

Service Dates: February 22, 2010 – November 22, 2010

Length of Term: 1700 hours

www.northwestserviceacademy.org

http://www.trailbuilders.org/resources/joblist.html

“A journey is best measured in friends rather than miles”

– Tim Cahill

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