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.
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*** 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?
*** 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 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
*** 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)
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.
*** 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
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