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Your Very Next Step newsletter for January 2011

By Ned Lundquist

www.yourverynextstep.com

“Every man should be born again on the first day of January. Start with a fresh page.”

– Henry Ward Beecher

“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.

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Contact Ned at lundquist989@cs.com.

*** In this issue:

*** Travel news

*** January is festival time:

*** Rail Trail of the Month – New Jersey's Sussex Branch Trail

*** Trail and Outdoors Volunteer opportunities:

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

1.) Store Keeper at Brooks Lodge, Katmai National Park, AK

2.) Communications Director, Save Our Wild Salmon, Seattle, Portland or Washington DC

3.) Director of Communications, Outdoor Industry, Boulder, Colorado

4.) Museum Interpreter A – Bassett Hall, Colonial Williamsburg, Williamsburg, Virginia

5.) Product Manager – Accessories, Simms Fishing Products, Bozeman, MT

6.) Executive Director, International Rivers, Berkeley, CA

7.) Executive Director, Yellowstone Association, Gardiner, Montana

8.) Senior Manager, Public Relations, Mountain Hardwear, Richmond, CA

9.) Public Relations Manager, Brooks Sports, Inc, Bothell, WA

10.) Field Staff, Year-round wilderness program, RedCliff Ascent, Enterprise, UT

11.) Executive Director, Hartley Nature Center, Duluth, Minnesota

12.) Lifeguard / Cabin Counselor, Gwynn Valley Camp, Brevard, North Carolina

13.) Director of Communications, Employer: National Business Travel Association, Alexandria, Virginia

14.) Captain, Glacier Park Boat Company, Kalispell, MT

15.) Full-Time Freelance Travel Writer and Editor, American Park Network, New York City

…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 January:

*** 11 Ways to Save on Airfare in Any Season

Saving money on airline tickets isn't just a seasonal concern. Here are tips on lowering the cost from an airborne expert.

By George Hobica

Airfarewatchdog.com

http://www.frommers.com/articles/7090.html#ixzz17twglgZw

Frequent travelers share tips for keeping valuables safe

By Charisse Jones, USA TODAY

http://www.usatoday.com/travel/news/2010-12-07-businesstravel07_ST_N.htm

How to protect your home while traveling

By Sarah Pascarella, SmarterTravel.com

http://www.usatoday.com/travel/deals/inside/2010-11-25-Home-Protection-While-Traveling_N.htm

United Airlines Employing Technology to Cut Down on Lines

Link to article in the Chicago Tribune:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/ct-biz-1222-linebuster-20101222,0,632321.story

For Some Travelers Stranded in Airports, Relief is in 140 Characters

Link to article in The New York Times:

How Airlines Managed Through the Blizzard

Link to article on TheStreet:

http://www.thestreet.com/_yahoo/story/10957402/1/how-airlines-managed-through-the-blizzard.html

IRS Raises 2011 Mileage Reimbursement Rate

The U.S. Internal Revenue Service set the 2011 standard rate for deducting business use of a car at 51 cents per mile, up from the current rate of 50 cents.

Marriott's sustainable seafood push leads to exotic Amazonian fish

Ever heard of the prehistoric paiche?

http://travel.usatoday.com/hotels/post/2011/01/marriott-sustainable-seafood-peruvian-rainforest-fish/137143/1

Naked woman creates ruckus on Delta flight to New York

By Ben Mutzabaugh, USA TODAY

http://travel.usatoday.com/flights/post/2010/11/naked-woman-creates-ruckus-on-delta-flight-to-new-york/132862/1

From TCN:

Shift of Earth's Magnetic North Pole Impacts Tampa Airport

Scientists say the magnetic north pole is moving toward Russia and the fallout has reached — of all places — Tampa International Airport.

Link to article in The Tampa Tribune:

http://www2.tbo.com/content/2011/jan/05/051900/shift-of-earths-magnetic-north-pole-impacts-tampa-/news-breaking/

Link to notice from Tampa International Airport:

http://www.tampaairport.com/about/media/press_releases/2011/20110104-runway-designation-change.pdf

TSA embraces new medical notification cards

Travelers with health concerns can now discreetly alert airport screeners

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40647207/ns/travel-news/

*** 2011 January Festivals:

*** 2011 Sundance Film Festival Announces Films in Competition

January 20-20

Park City, Utah

This year’s 16 films were selected from 1,102 submissions. Each is a world premiere.

http://www.sundance.org/festival/article/2011-competition-film-announcement/

*** The 29th annual Plymouth Ice Festival:

The 29th annual Plymouth Ice Festival storms into Plymouth, Michigan January 21-23, 2011. Formerly known as the Plymouth International Ice Sculpture Spectacular, the official 2011 Plymouth Ice Festival will bring a new name, a new look and several new outdoor exhibits into the heart of downtown Plymouth.

Created specifically for the love of winter, the revamped Plymouth Ice Festival will feature over 100 ice sculptures, live music and entertainment, interactive family shows, winter-themed tasty treats and a variety of additional events to interest all ages. Several new event highlights include the Dueling Chainsaws Speed Carving Show, Forest Avenue Scavenger Hunt, Penniman Ave., Petting Farm & Pony Rides. Many of the Downtown Plymouth merchants will also be holding individualized in-store events offering discounts and giveaways. An estimated 100,000 people are slated to attend the three-day event.

The Plymouth Ice Festival has ranked among the top ice festivals in the United States by promoting ice sculpture as an art form through competitions, demonstrations and seminars with standardized judging and exhibitions.

http://www.plymouthicefestival.org/

*** Homestead Championship Rodeo

January 28-30, 2011

A variety of riding, roping, and racing events.

http://gomiami.about.com/od/culturaleventsinmiami/qt/Homestead-Championship-Rodeo.htm

*** Trail volunteer opportunities:

Volunteer Vacations 2011, Washington Trails Association, Washington State

Volunteer Vacations

Give us a week. We'll make it great.

Looking for a rewarding, challenging and fun vacation? Volunteer Vacations are week-long work parties that connect you with a much-needed trail maintenance project located in a premiere backcountry location of Washington State.

What's the Catch?

For a small fee we will provide you with a week of fine cooking, fun folks and a meaningful project – led by one of our skilled crew leaders. And, we'll also do a little trail work during the day. Projects range from repairing tread and improving drainage, to building structures such as turnpike or puncheon, or logging-out with crosscut saw. You'll share in-camp chores with fellow volunteers, like helping the cook, washing dishes and pumping water. But there will be plenty of time left over to sleep, eat and relax – and enjoy your surroundings.

Before Signing up

Please read more about the format of our trips, including the menu and procedures for submitting application and payment, in our Volunteer Vacation FAQs. Note that due to the popularity of our trips, you need to submit

payment and application within 2 weeks or joining a trip. If a trip is full and you would like to be added to a waitlist, please call us at 206/625-1367

trail_teams@wta.org.

http://www.wta.org/volunteer/vacations

Give someone — or yourself — the gift of exploring awesome outdoor spaces in 2011 with an America the Beautiful — National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass.

http://store.usgs.gov/pass/index.html

Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers, Basalt, CO

Town to Town Tour Adopt-A-Mile

Third annual cross-country ski/showshoe event

Aspen to Basalt on the Rio Grande Trail

Saturday, January 22, 2011

After a one-year break, the 3rd annual Town to Town Tour is back this winter, scheduled for Saturday, January 22, 2011, this time finishing up in charming “Old Town” Basalt. The Tour is a non-competitive cross-country ski and snowshoe event created to bring our community out on one of the Roaring Fork Valley’s great public trails, the Rio Grande, while raising awareness of RFOV and its mission. In 2008 and 2009, more than 360 people, ages 1-80, skied or snowshoed the 18 miles from Aspen to Basalt in this popular community event.

The Tour took a hiatus in 2010 after the downturn in the economy made it difficult to secure enough financial sponsors to guarantee a quality event for the winter. Now, with a ramped-up committee of seasoned volunteers and newcomers, RFOV is planning for another successful event in 2011. A big part of that success will depend on strong fundraising and sponsorships.

“Our goal is to raise $45,000 in sponsorships, to cover all of RFOV’s hard costs (tents, food & beverages, and permits), staff time, and to raise a modest amount for RFOV’s summer trails and conservation programs,” says Development Coordinator Karin Teague. “While this is a big undertaking for us, we see the Tour as a totally unique and much-loved winter event that brings the greater Roaring Fork Valley community together, while giving us an opportunity to educate the public about who we are and the important work RFOV does.”

One of the new sponsorship opportunities RFOV has created is the Adopt-A-Mile program. For $500, businesses or organizations can “adopt” one mile of the Rio Grande Trail, where they can promote their business by engaging skiers and snowshoers with drinks, music, swag, contests—whatever they can dream up—as they pass on the trail.

“Adding the Adopt-A-Mile will bring a fun element to the route, and give sponsors an opportunity to gain more exposure,” says Kathleen Wanatowicz, Tour publicity coordinator. “We developed this program based on feedback from Tour participants—it can be a long event for new participants—so interactive stops along the way will help them along, as well as give sponsors a chance to directly engage with the participants.”

RFOV expects close to 400 participants again this winter. The Tour will begin at Rio Grande Park in Aspen, with an optional mid-course start and refreshment station at Woody Creek. New this year, the finish will be in downtown Basalt, with fantastic food and drink provided by local restaurants. The improvements to the Town to Town Tour will make this great community event even more popular, so mark your winter calendar for January 22, 2011! To become a sponsor, to volunteer, or for more information, call 927-8241 or email rfov@sopris.net.

Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers

PO Box 1341, Basalt, CO

http://www.rfov.org/2011_town_to_town_tour

Volunteer opportunities, The County of Santa Clara, Santa Clara, CA

http://www.sccgov.org/portal/site/parks/parkschp?path=%2Fv7%2FParks%20and%20Recreation%2C%20Department%20of%20%28DEP%29%2Fmain_menu%2FVolunteer%20Here

Volunteer Stewardship Workdays, Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment

Join us for fun activities year-round!

Workday dates, activities, and locations are listed below. Workdays are scheduled and posted quarterly. Please check this site to make sure you have the most up-to-date information since meeting locations may need to change.

See what volunteer workdays look like on our Picasa web page.

Volunteer workdays are sponsored by the State Park Stewardship Unit to help protect and restore natural areas in our state park system. We focus on natural areas that are known or potential sites for species of greatest conservation need.

http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,1607,7-153-10366_10871-162412–,00.html

*** National Rail-Trail of the month:

Trail of the Month: January 2011

New Jersey's Sussex Branch Trail

On an icy January morning, the air is so still you can hear the beat of a hawk's wings in the bare blue sky overhead. Tree trunks creak and groan like an old rocking chair, and winter has put a frozen glaze on the landscape. But you won't mind if you've bundled up for a romp on New Jersey's 20-mile Sussex Branch Trail, where the solitude will have you feeling as crisp as the season.

In fact, winter might be the best season to explore this rail-trail. Its surface is slightly rough and uneven in places, with an off-and-on mixture of gravel, ballast, cinder, dirt and grass. But throw some powder on the ground, and the Sussex Branch Trail becomes a pristine highway of outdoor activity.

New York City is barely 60 miles to the east, yet the change of pace and scenery as you approach northern New Jersey can be startling. One moment you're racing with traffic on Interstate 80. The next minute you're curling through woodlands and farmsteads, winding from Branchville to Byram Township with stops in Lafayette, Newton and Andover. You've traded honking horns for horse corrals and gentle hillsides. So strap on your cross-country skis or hiking boots, or climb up into that saddle, because the Sussex Branch Trail shines when the season shivers.

In terms of elevation gain, you'll notice little advantage starting at either end of the trail, which opened in 1998. You can pick up the path at multiple trailheads and road crossings, or even extend your journey on the 27-mile Paulinskill Valley Trail. But if you're looking for a fitting starting point, head to Branchville, once the western terminus of the Sussex Branch Railroad Company line.

Iron mining first brought the railroad as far north as Andover. Later, a series of creameries drew the tracks farther north into cow country to service the dairy demand. Before the rail line reached Branchville in 1869, those local creameries were limited to producing butter and cheese. After the trains arrived, and with improved refrigeration, area farmers were able to transport their milk to distant markets. The dairy industry quickly took off. By the early 1900s, the Branchville Creamery alone was bottling 9,000 quarts of milk each day, and Sussex County bragged about having more cows than people.

New Jersey's dairy heyday dried out by the 1960s due to increased costs and stricter health regulations. A fire at the Branchville Creamery effectively ended its business in 1962, and other nearby creameries soon closed down as well. Without its customers, the railroad discontinued service in 1966.

Most of the original creameries have disappeared, but some have been renovated for other uses, including one just off the trail a few miles east of Branchville. South of Ross Corner on U.S. Route 206, you'll pass a large building housing several small offices. It was once Becker's Creamery, which operated during the Civil War.

After you cross Route 206, you'll settle into the crunching cadence of your footsteps. Weekdays on the Sussex Branch Trail are particularly peaceful, and you aren't likely to pass more than a few locals walking their dogs. Mostly you'll see signs of the animals that have hit the trail since the last snowfall—deer tracks, tiny paw prints and birds' claw marks—and the long ruts of cross-country skiers. (Black bears are around, but not commonly seen.)

A narrow tree strip hugs the corridor, and the trunk shadows zebra-stripe the snow. And as you approach Lafayette the woodlands grow deeper. A gushing stream ushers you into town, where you'll find several enticing cafés and antiques stores. As you leave the town behind, the pathway doglegs south, backyards peel away, and Highway 15 vanishes from sight and sound.

A series of lakes, often frozen over during the peak of winter, soon opens up to the west. Someone has fashioned an aging, makeshift bench here on the trail; if it's still standing, the spot very much warrants a pause to soak up the scene and listen to the distant honking of Canada geese across the ice.

Shortly down the trail, you'll reach the one break in the corridor: a 1.1-mile detour along the shoulder of Old Branchville/Newton Branchville Junction Road. It's a bit narrow at points, so you'll have to be mindful of traffic. Follow the road as it angles up a hill to the west and becomes Hicks Avenue in Newton. The rail-trail picks up again on your left and leads you to Sparta Avenue. At that intersection, you'll easily spot the kiosk and trailhead across the street on Strickles Pond Road.

From there, the peacefulness of the rail-trail climaxes. Crows caw and flutter in the naked treetops, and their shadows dash back and forth across the trail. You'll pass through rock cuts and steep slopes and notice how elevated the railroad berm has grown. The corridor feels most wild and sequestered along this segment heading through Kittatinny Valley State Park. Then, as if to wake you from a winter dream, the trail comes within range of Route 206 once again as you head into Andover. Lake Aeroflex and the Aeroflex-Andover Airport are off to the east, and you'll feel the vibrations of business life more closely again.

South of Andover, you continue on to the trail's terminus at Waterloo Road in Byram Township (there is a fairly rough and rocky section near Cranberry Lake). When you reach the end in Allamuchy Mountain State Park, you can shake the snow from your boots and shed a few layers. But however you choose to unwind and recharge from your trip, rarely will a thaw feel more satisfying than after a snowy stint on the Sussex Branch Trail.

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

*** Travel/Adventure/Outdoors/Conservation employment opportunities:

1.) Store Keeper at Brooks Lodge, Katmai National Park, AK

Job Location:

Katmai National Park on the Alaskan Peninsula – Katmai National Park, AK, United States

Job Description:

The primary activity at Brooks Lodge is bear viewing and sportfishing. Brooks accomodates 64 guests at a time and requires excellent customer service in every position to ensure that our guests expectations are not only met, but exceeded.

The Approximate Season Dates for Brooks Lodge: May 20 – September 18, 2010

Store Keeper: responsible for:

•Retail store operation at the lodge. Oversee the rental program. Good customer skills a must. Reconciliation of guest charges.

•Familiar with retail operations and sales. Ten key, extensive cash handling, credit cars, and cash register.

•Inventory control, pricing using guidelines set by the Park Service, stocking, display, and daily reports.

•Must possess a well rounded knowledge of fishing, hiking and general outdoor activities.

Ability to lift 50 lbs.

Job Requirements:

Katmailand's goal is to have an efficient operation with a friendly and attentive staff. We consider each employee an important representative. We are looking to employ people who are friendly, cheerful with visitors as well as with fellow employees, can work as a team, are self-starters and hard workers. Each employee is highly visible to our guests and therefore we insist that each employee present a neat and clean appearance. Our standards are high and we expect employees to meet those standards.

How To Apply:

Because of the difficulty with interviewing, checking references, documentation, labor laws and travel costs we do not hire foreign workers. Please do NOT apply if you are not a U.S. Citizen or a U.S. National.

1.View and print out the Katmailand Seasonal Employment Application

2.Complete your application

3.Mail to: Katmailand, Inc., 4125 Aircraft Drive, Anchorage, AK 99502.

~ or ~

Email to: jobs@katmailand.com

~ or ~

Fax to: (907)243-0649.

Contact Information:

Contact: Human Resources

4125 Aircraft Drive

Anchorage, AK, United States 99502

Phone: (907) 243-5448

Fax: (907) 243-0649

Email: jobs@katmailand.com

Website: www.katmailand.com

http://www.resortjobs.com/do/details/937

2.) Communications Director, Save Our Wild Salmon, Seattle, Portland or Washington DC

Save Our Wild Salmon is a nationwide coalition of conservation organizations, sport and commercial fishing associations, businesses, and taxpayer and clean energy advocates working to restore abundant, sustainable wild salmon to the rivers and streams of the Pacific salmon states. Our priority is a national campaign to restore endangered salmon and steelhead in the Columbia/Snake River Basin by removing four dams on the Lower Snake River in Washington State.

The Coalition has offices in Seattle WA; Portland OR; Boise ID; and Spokane WA.

SUMMARY: Full-time staff position responsible for developing and implementing the Coalition's communications strategy, including: coordinating communications and media activities, traditional and new, of SOS and campaign partner groups; organizing and making reporter, writer and editorial board contacts; overseeing and expanding on-line and social media; directing message creation, training and discipline; overseeing earned media; organizing editorial board visits, media outreach and press events; and producing materials. The communications director works with SOS staff, board and consultants to ensure that messages, materials and media further SOS and campaign strategies and policies. This position is a busy and challenging job.

REQUIREMENTS: Bachelors degree in a related discipline and minimum of five years experience in media or communications for conservation, political, or other advocacy organization. Position requires excellent written and oral communication skills, experience with reporters and writers, project management experience, demonstrable experience in web communications and social media, quick learning and writing, and attention to detail. Strong collaboration skills, excellent time management and flexibility to manage competing priorities are essential. Some background in Congressional and government relations is helpful. Experience may substitute for education.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop, implement and manage communications strategies in traditional and new media. Assure coordination of national and regional media activities.

• Serve as contact with reporters and writers, particularly national reporters. Cultivate and maintain reporter relationships. Track reporter/writer contact by other SOS staff and campaign leaders.

• Assure creation and implementation of national and northwest editorial board plans and activities; cultivate and maintain editorial writer contact.

• Coordinate and build SOS and campaign presence in social media.

• Develop content for and expand communications uses of SOS and campaign web sites.

• Prepare and oversee preparation of talking points, press releases, backgrounders, op-eds, media packets, and other media materials.

• Work with SOS partner organizations, their leaders and communications staff to maximize media penetration.

• Direct and evaluate effectiveness of campaign messaging in conjunction with staff and campaign leaders. Ensure message consistency and discipline in media and materials.

• Support media spokespeople. Assure identification of effective messengers, work with outreach staff to recruit messengers, and assure necessary support.

• Identify proactive and reactive media opportunities: work with outreach staff to coordinate fast, strategic response to news stories, editorials and web postings, including critical ones. Assure rapid factual response to media supporting and opposing our campaign.

• Monitor coverage of our campaign and related issues, and distribute relevant coverage to our campaign leaders and other SOS staff.

• Develop and implement national media events and tours to further campaign goals.

• Manage most communications contracts and consultants, including setting priorities, managing workload, and assuring accountability.

• Manage SOS communications budgets.

Salary range is $40-50,000, depending on experience and location. Portland and Seattle are preferred locations due to presence of other SOS staff; Washington D.C. will be considered for the right applicant. We offer full medical, dental and vision benefits and generous vacation leave. Save Our Wild Salmon is an equal opportunity employer. Resume and cover letter to Kristie Miller, kristie@wildsalmon.org. Applications will be considered as received; the position is open until filled, and early application is encouraged. No calls please. Websites: www.wildsalmon.org; www.workingsnakeriver.org.

http://careers.outdoorindustry.org/jobs#/detail/3777736

3.) Director of Communications, Outdoor Industry, Boulder, Colorado

A recognized leader and primary spokesperson for the Outdoor Industry is seeking a Director of Communications to oversee all corporate communication, marketing, and branding efforts. This executive level position will lead the communications team in developing collateral which reflects the needs of membership and supports the strategic direction. This includes the marketing coordination and logistics of all publications, promotions, website platforms and trade events. He or she will also be responsible for coordinating support for department members to ensure all functional areas have the resources needed to complete their goals. Additional responsibilities include overseeing the marketing budget, developing timelines, and estimating projections for future growth.

Requirements:

– 8+ years experience directing a successful communications and public relations department

– 8+ years experience in marketing, planning and management

– 8+ years strong supervisory experience, with ability to coach, mentor, and train

– Excellent presentation, communication, writing and negotiation skills

– Strong interpersonal and management skills

– Experience in the outdoor industry considered a plus

– BS/BA degree; Masters degree or equivalent preferred

Email resume to resumes@generatorgroup.net.

Enter job requisition code BHJOB3190_1801 in the subject line.

http://careers.outdoorindustry.org/jobs#/detail/3828439

4.) Museum Interpreter A – Bassett Hall, Colonial Williamsburg, Williamsburg, Virginia

Interprets 18th- through 20th-century history and the restoration of Williamsburg at Bassett Hall

Interprets effectively using primary and secondary source information, objects, historic sites, environment and communication

Provides exceptional guest service

Qualifications Basic knowledge of 18th- through 20th-century Williamsburg including the restoration of Williamsburg

Friendly and open disposition with demonstrated ability to initiate conversation with guest and anticipate their needs, questions and problems

Ability to (1) present and maintain a warm and enthusiastic demeanor iwth guest and co-workers, (2) deal with public one-on-one and in large group situations, (3) treat guests and co-workers with tact and diplomacy, (4) balance the needs of the guest and the needs of the organization, (5) read and assimilate information, (6) adapt to a changing work environment, (7) work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays, and (8) perform various functions such as standing, lifting, walking and climbing in varying light conditions

Highly desired: Current or previous interpretive experience at Colonial Williamsburg. Interpreter Bs are encouraged to apply.

http://www.cwemployment.org/cwf/jobboard/JobDetails.aspx?__ID=*A2F171C7335CEEDD

5.) Product Manager – Accessories, Simms Fishing Products, Bozeman, MT

This role will work as part of the Product Development Team and will be responsible for the development, commercialization and product/fiscal management of assigned Simms accessory categories.

Categories assigned will include: Belts; Gloves; Fly boxes; Lodge Line; Wading staffs and neoprene accessories.

The Accessory Product Manager will also identify opportunities and develop Simms business plans for new accessory product categories: Eyewear, Accessory Tools and others as necessary. The Accessory Product Manager will work under the direction of the Global Director, Product Development and work across the Simms organization to maximize sales, delivery and margin.

Successful candidates will have:

A Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent and a minimum of two years experience in the development and commercialization of accessory products.

Simms Fishing Products

101 Evergreen Drive

Bozeman, MT

59715

To apply for this position, please email your resume to cdecker@simmsfishing.com.

http://www.simmsfishing.com/site/employment.html

6.) Executive Director, International Rivers, Berkeley, CA

International Rivers seeks a passionate, proven and creative Executive Director to lead the world's pre-eminent river basin advocacy organization.

Celebrating its 25th year, International Rivers is the leading international advocacy organization working to defend healthy rivers and the rights and livelihoods of the communities that depend on them. We oppose destructive large dams and the development model they advance, and encourage better ways of meeting people's needs for water, energy and protection from damaging floods.

With an international team of 26 staff in the US, Africa, Asia and South America, International Rivers' new Executive Director will be responsible for developing the vision, strategy, tactics and capacity of International Rivers; raising the funds necessary to carry out our mission; developing and maintaining relationships with the organization's many international partner organizations; building effective teams across our culturally and geographically diverse staff; and launching new initiatives that further our mission.

The position is located in Berkeley, CA.

Salary will be commensurate with experience; excellent benefits. International Rivers is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Applications are due by January 15, 2011. A letter of interest, date of availability, salary requirements, resume and a writing sample should be sent via email to: edsearch@internationalrivers.org.

The full job description can be downloaded at http://www.internationalrivers.org/en/job-posting/executive-director.

7.) Executive Director, Yellowstone Association, Gardiner, Montana

The Yellowstone Association, a non-profit membership-based education organization that promotes the preservation and support of Yellowstone National Park, seeks a dynamic Executive Director. The Yellowstone Association (YA) funds and provides educational products and services for Yellowstone National Park and is the National Park Service's primary partner in providing educational programs, exhibits, and publications for park visitors and has furnished over $24 million in support for Yellowstone since its inception in 1933. The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of the Yellowstone Association and provides overall leadership and operation of the organization while executing on the Board’s vision and mission for the organization. This is a full-time, exempt position located in Gardiner, Montana.

Specifically, the Executive Director’s responsibilities include:

Leadership, Planning, and Supervision

Providing informed and visionary leadership for the organization, including the creation and execution of a long-range strategic plan to fulfill YA’s educational mission

Representing the organization in the Greater Yellowstone community, including developing and strengthening productive relationships with members, donors, the National Park Service, and others critical to the organization’s success

Preparing and overseeing a goal-oriented annual budget with a focus on financial capacity and long-term security

Prudent management of YA resources within its approved budget according to current laws and regulations

Overseeing operation, design, marketing, delivery, and quality of all YA programs, products, and services, including retail stores throughout the park

Supervising the hiring and firing of staff and selecting, training, and developing employees, including establishing appropriate compensation and benefit levels and ensuring that all staff are meeting objectives in an efficient and team-oriented approach

Setting and maintaining a high-level of professionalism and accountability throughout YA

Board Relations

Maintaining productive working relationship with Board that includes regular reporting on progress toward organizational goals and objectives

Working closely with Board Chair to identify key issues for YA and setting appropriate agenda for board meetings

Ensuring the implementation of all board policies

Fundraising

Overseeing all fundraising activities, including ensuring growth in member support

Leading stewardship efforts with major donors and Yellowstone Society members to ensure continued support of YA

Oversee all other fundraising projects as the Board dictates

Qualifications, Skills, and Characteristics:

Proven track record of excellent organizational and people management

Solid financial management skills and familiarity with accounting procedures

High-level partnership and relationship building skills, including the ability to strengthen and grow relationships with leadership and staff, volunteers, and other key stakeholders

Track record of success with fundraising or relevant experience in strategic relationship building strongly preferred

Previous experience working with a Board of Directors

Collaborative team-builder and motivator

Genuine passion for YA mission

Strong results- and goal-orientation

Ability to deliver under firm deadlines

Creative, innovative approach, including the ability to present new strategies and concepts

Highly strategic, able to anticipate future consequences and trends, and position organization favorably

The ability to solicit input and feedback from a wide range of stakeholders and to make informed decisions and judgments

Calm, confident demeanor and the ability to maintain grace under pressure and manage challenging situations toward a positive outcome

Exceptional oral and written communication skills

Dedication to maintaining high standards for quality and professionalism in all work

The ability to adapt to changing priorities and circumstances with flexibility

BA required, advanced degree preferred

Compensation:

Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience and includes an excellent package of employee and health benefits.

To Apply:

Yellowstone Association has engaged Koya Consulting to help with this hire. Please email a cover letter and resume to Molly Brennan at executivesearch@koyaconsulting.com.

Yellowstone Association is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from people of color, persons with disabilities, women, and LGBT applicants.

About Yellowstone Association: The non-profit Yellowstone Association educates Yellowstone National Park visitors by offering trip planners, books, videos, and guided classes through Yellowstone Park by it’s field institute. The Yellowstone Association is located in Yellowstone National Park and promotes preservation of Yellowstone National Park through its educational Park Store bookstores, publication of books, and funding provided to Yellowstone through membership and sales of educational materials to park visitors. Since 1933, the Yellowstone Association has been the National Park Service’s official partner in education in Yellowstone National Park. For more information, please visit: http://www.yellowstoneassociation.org.

About Koya:

Koya Consulting is a national retained search and consulting firm that works exclusively with non-profits and social enterprises. We deliver measurable results, finding exceptionally talented people who truly fit the unique culture of our client organizations. For more information, please visit: www.koyaconsulting.com.

http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/jobs/job_item.jhtml?id=316000020

*** From Mark Sofman

8.) Senior Manager, Public Relations, Mountain Hardwear, Richmond, CA

http://bit.ly/eYWABU

9.) Public Relations Manager, Brooks Sports, Inc, Bothell, WA

http://bit.ly/h4oB8I

10.) Field Staff, Year-round wilderness program, RedCliff Ascent, Enterprise, UT

RedCliff is an extraordinary program with research based outcome studies to back it up. The effectiveness of the program and the significant changes made by students and families, as born out through the research, has a direct correlation to the quality of staff employed at RedCliff. Therefore, we search out the best.

If you prefer a hike in the backcountry to a walk in the park, or waking to the wind in the trees over the sound of an alarm, then this career might be for you.

If you have any questions concerning employment with redcliff ascent or would like to talk to someone live feel free to contact Tana in our Human Resources department by phone at: (435) 592-4422 or by email at jobs@redcliffascent.com

Contact Us

Interested in becoming a member of our staff? Contact our recruiter at:

Apply online for our Field Staff Position.

RedCliff Ascent Recruiting

Attn: Tana

709 E. Main Street

PO Box 1027

Enterprise, UT 84725

Phone: (435) 592-4422

Phone: 1-888-588-HIKE

Fax: (435) 878-2860

Email: jobs@redcliffascent.com

The above address is for recruiting inquiries only. Please direct any other inquiries to our corporate office.

Apply to Redcliff Ascent

You may also fill out our online application if you decide you are interested in becoming a member of our team.

Welcome to the RedCliff Ascent employment site. For over a decade, the staff at RedCliff has helped thousands of teenagers and their families find a new beginning.

http://www.wildernesswork.com/apply_online.php

11.) Executive Director, Hartley Nature Center, Duluth, Minnesota

http://www.hartleynature.org/downloads/ED-JobAd-Final12-11.pdf

12.) Lifeguard / Cabin Counselor, Gwynn Valley Camp, Brevard, North Carolina

Founded in 1935 – Gwynn Valley is a summer camp for boys and girls with a farm, wilderness, and traditional program that nurtures the child while fostering a connection with the land and the simple joys of childhood. We introduce a variety of programs to children in a noncompetitive and accepting environment. The camp property is located near Brevard NC, in the Appalachian Mountains. The property sits on 320 acres of mostly wooded land held in a conservation easement with a small lake, large creek and access to the French Broad River. With a working farm and 1890's grist mill the children are involved in maintaining, harvesting, and preparing vegetables and field crops grown on our camp farm. www.gwynnvalley.com

Lifeguard:

You will assist the Waterfront and Assistant Waterfront Director with teaching a creative program, as well as create a safe environment for our campers. Direct responsibility for planning program is the Program Leaders responsibility, however as a Lifeguard you will be expected to offer suggestions and assist teaching children in a specific area. You will also Lifeguard at our pool, lake, creek, and on the French Broad River while leading activities as varied as Creek Hikes, Zip Line, Kayaking, Rafting etc.

Cabin Counselor:

Live in a cabin with a co-counselor and 8-10 campers in Main Camp. Responsible for the physical, psychological and emotional safety of the children. Some tasks in the cabin include waking children up and putting them to bed at night, personal hygiene for campers, consistent discipline, homesickness issues, and communication with your co-counselor. Teach for 2 hours daily in one of the ten program areas. Each summer we have openings for male, female, & married couples for a 9 week program. (+ 1 week of staff training)

Job Requirements

Gwynn Valley’s staff is what makes each summer a success. We hire creative, fun, inspiring individuals who demonstrate a desire to work with younger children and who have strong character, leadership skills, and experience to teach in our program areas. Our staff is made up of people from all over the world and these diverse cultures are an important part of Gwynn Valley. Countries such as Scotland, England, Ireland, France, Poland, Ukraine, Russia, Brazil, Japan, Australia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and New Zealand have been represented at camp. In addition, we have staff from many US States.

Qualifications:

Minimum of 19 years old.

Current Lifeguard Training. Waterfront Certified preferred.

Current First aid and CPR for The Professional Rescuer.

Strong desire to work with children.

Be a positive and supportive member of a community.

Ability to put others needs ahead or your own.

Salary: Lifeguard / Cabin Counselor $240+ per week (d.o.e.) room, board, laundry.

Dates: June 2 – August 14, 2011

Apply online: http://www.gwynnvalley.com/employment/

http://careers.naspa.com/c/job.cfm?vnet=0&t735=&t730=&max=25&site%5Fid=190&jb=4889590

13.) Director of Communications, Employer: National Business Travel Association, Alexandria, Virginia

The National Business Travel Association seeks an individual to lead the development and execution of the Association's member and external communication strategies. This position serves as the primary liaison with NBTA's strategic PR firm and is in charge of leading efforts to draft and promote all communication from NBTA. Coordination with government affairs, the Executive Director and President to draft, refine, and finalize positions on industry issues. Serve as primary contact for media outlets and maintain positive relationships with industry media professionals. Develop proactive outreach strategies in coordination with PR firm that support the positioning of the Association to represent the global business travel community.

Responsibilities include: Preparing position statements, speeches and presentations; writing, editing and formatting electronic newsletters, member communications, press releases; media relations, media tracking, social media strategy and management, web writing and editing; planning and managing media relations for association events, including our major convention in August; drafting letters on behalf of NBTA leaders for placement in industry, business, and consumer publications; maintaining a high level of industry knowledge and familiarity with current trends in corporate travel.

Position reports to SVP of Operations

Job Requirements

Qualifications: 7-10 years experience in Communications/PR environment; bachelor's degree in related field. Masters degree preferred. Experience with basic and advanced public relations techniques. Experience with all of the following: speech writing, press release writing, web writing, creating marketing copy, and copy editing. Knowledge of travel industry/transportation issues preferred. Experience in legislative affairs a plus. Bilingual a plus. Prefer candidates who are familiar with and active in industry organizations and associations. APR certified is a plus.

The National Business Travel Association (NBTA) is a solid growing association located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria. NBTA offers an excellent benefit package, and competitive compensation in a pleasant modern office setting.

Qualified candidates should send a cover letter and resume with salary requirements to info@nbta.org or fax to 703-684-0263. No phone calls, please. http://www.jobtarget.com/link.cfm?c=LY2bRoWwvUAy

14.) Captain, Glacier Park Boat Company, Kalispell, MT

Employment Alert: Now accepting applications for summer 2011!

A bank teller turned boat builder started a family legacy in Glacier National Park. What started in 1938 as a two-boat operation, Glacier Park Boat Company has grown to include five locations throughout the Park. Seasonal boat captains staff historic wooden boats that carry from forty-five to eighty passengers from the first part of June until the end of September. Captains are trained to drive the boats and give professional commentary informing visitors of the historic, cultural and geographic aspects of America's Little Switzerland. Applicants need no prior captain experience, must be 18 years of age, possess current CPR and first aid certificates, and pass physical exam and drug test. A desire to learn how to operate these historic boats and people skills are a must! Pay starts at $9/hour, with increases for experience. Housing is family-style and is included in the compensation package; employees provide their own food. To begin the application process, email your resume to Denise VanArtsdale (denise@glacierparkboats.com).

Glacier Park Boat Co.

P.O. Box 5262

Kalispell, MT 59903

(406) 257-2426

E-mail: info@glacierparkboats.com

*** From Bridget Serchak:

15.) Full-Time Freelance Travel Writer and Editor, American Park Network, New York City

American Park Network, a leading publisher of visitor guides to national parks and public lands, seeks a hard working, self-directed writer and editor to help with the production of our park guides and write articles and compile information for our website and e-newsletter. Responsibilities of this temporary freelance position will include editing and updating guide content, pitching and writing articles for our website and e-newsletter, identifying and posting items to our online calendar of events, and enhancing our Twitter and Facebook content. We’re looking for an energetic self-starter who is proactive, and has great writing and interpersonal communication skills and a strong work ethic. Ideally, applicants will have an interest in travel, parks and the outdoors. The position is based at our Manhattan headquarters and will last from January with mid-April, with the possibility for transition to a full-time position. To learn more about American Park Network, visit OhRanger.com *beta*. For consideration, please send a resume, cover letter, compensation history and writing sample to jobs@americanparknetwork.com.

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