THE REC RAG

NEWSLETTER OF THE Missouri State University

RECREATION & LEISURE STUDIES PROGRAM Alumni & Students


 

PLEASE, IF THERE ARE ANY CORRECTIONS, UPDATING NEEDED,
CONTACT THE EDITORIAL OFFICE ASAP!!!

ALL PHOTOS ARE CLICKABLE TO ENLARGE!!!

 WE WELCOME EMPLOYMENT OR
INTERNSHIP POSTINGS FROM ALUMS, ETC.

 

SEE THESE IMPORTANT RLS WEB PAGES . . .

Recreation & Leisure Studies Website, click here

Faculty Profiles, click here!

 

Send this site to a friend!!!

 

Here are some avid novice geocachers at Springfield's Maple Park Cemetery on the hunt for the gravestones of Springfield Pioneers . . .

Before . . .

After . . . REC 190 Geocachers

 

Commercial Rec Field Trip to Horseshoe Canyon Ranch

 

Britton TuckerBritton TuckerBritton TuckerEric Short & Jason RoyAlum & Climbing Expert, Jason RoyOwner, Barry JohnsonProf. Steve IllumProf. Steve IllumDamon HibbsHorseshoe Canyon RanchHorseshoe Canyon RanchHorseshoe Canyon RanchHorseshoe Canyon RanchHorseshoe Canyon RanchHorseshoe Canyon RanchZach Ebers

 

 

I hope that, if you discover that any of the jobs are filled below, you will let me know immediately.  Editor

Click here for Girls Scouts jobs!

Click here for Boy Scouts of America jobs!

 

Summer Jobs

 

When does the Wyman Teen Leadership Program happen?

Preference is given to applicants able to commit to

the full camp season.

What is the Wyman Teen Leadership Program?

Our program is a year-round, five year leadership program for teens who are high

potential, yet underserved. During the summer, they attend a 24 day residential camp at our

280 acre camp in Eureka, MO.

Why join the team at Wyman Teen Leadership?

Already, hundreds of people have grown, learned, and benefited from working in our innovative

program which combines the best practices in youth development, adventure education,

environmental education, and academic progress. Does this sound like the place for you or

someone you know?

Here’s what our staff have to say about the Teen Leadership Program:

“My experience this past summer was amazing. I owe that to the awesome staff, but most

importantly, the many awesome campers that I was able to interact with.”

“I would definitely recommend others to work at Wyman. It’s one of the most worthwhile things I’ve

ever done. You will make friendships that last a lifetime.”

“This past summer was the best summer I’ve ever had, and I am really looking forward to coming

back. I love my Wyman family!”

What positions are available?

We are currently interviewing for the following summer positions:

Team Leaders (supervisory positions)

Group Leaders (cabin counselors)

Activity and Trek Instructors (Including arts, waterfront, adventure, trek and nature)

Do I get paid for these positions?

Yes! Salaries are based on position and experience.

Paid internships available. Meals and housing are all

provided free of charge.

How can I fill out an application?

Print your application as soon as possible from:

http://wymancenter.org/opportunities/

Mail the completed form to:

Wyman Teen Leadership Program

Attn: Jillian Rose

600 Kiwanis Dr.

Eureka, MO 63025

Contact Jillian Rose at jillian.rose@wymancenter.org  or 636.549.1280

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Check out jobs with YMCA of The Rockies!

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Do you love sports, kids, fun, and want to get $paid$ to have a Blast!

 

What is camp War Eagle?

Camp War Eagle will be on the Missouri State campus November 4-7.  We are Christian Sports and Adventure camp for Underserved and at Risk kids ages 7-17 in NW Arkansas.  We are looking for college students that Love God first and foremost, Love Kids, Love the outdoors, and Love making a difference in the lives of others!!!  Most of our kids come from pretty hard homes and really need a positive role model in their lives and that role model could be you.  About 80% of our kids get a $2000 experience at no cost.  Pretty amazing!!!  Check out our website for more info:  www.campwareagle.org

 

How to find us:

 

Can you guys accommodate internships?

Camp War Eagle could be a great place for you to spend your summer, while getting paid for it at the same time.  For a lot of Students at Missouri State it could serve as a PAID summer internship, especially for any major dealing with kids, social services, ministry, recreation, or sports.   WE will help accommodate almost any situation based on the requirements by your department.  This summer….consider making a difference. Email Jen Watkins at jenwatkins@campwareagle.org with questions.

  

My name is Alden Napier and I am an assistant director for Camp War Eagle, a sports and adventure camp for underprivileged and at risk students, ages 7-17 in Northwest Arkansas. Each year some of our very best staff come from MSU and we are so thankful to you for helping us find willing young men and women who want to directly apply what they’re learning at your institution. We are currently offering internships for recreation and leisure undergraduate students for the summer of 2010.  My team and I will be on the MSU campus offering paid positions to people who enjoy working with kids and making a difference in the lives of others. We are located east of Rogers, AR on Beaver Lake about 3 hours from Springfield.  If possible I am hoping you can help us again by sending out the following email to the students. Also, if you have any other outlets for announcing this opportunity that we should take advantage of, please share them with us.  Again, thank you and let me know if you need any additional information.

 

I look forward to hearing back from you. 

 

Student email:

 

Camp War Eagle will be on the Missouri State University Campus November 17th-20th.  We are sports and adventure camp for underserved and at risk kids ages 7-17 in NW Arkansas.  We are looking for college students who, love kids, love the outdoors, and love making a difference in the lives of others!!!  Most of our kids come from pretty tough situations and all of our campers need a positive role model in their lives. You could be that role model!  About 80% of our kids get a $2000 experience at no cost.  Pretty amazing!!!  Check out our website for more info:  http://www.campwareagle.org/staff.

 

Camp War Eagle could be a great place for you to spend your summer, while getting paid for your hard work.  For a lot of students at MSU this opportunity could serve as a PAID summer internship, especially for any major dealing with kids, social services, ministry, recreation, or sports.   We will help accommodate almost any situation based on the requirements by your department.  This summer….consider making a difference. Email Alden Napier with questions.

 

How to find us:

·         We are will be set up inside the Plaster Student Union lobby Tues-Thurs (Nov. 17th -19th) from 10 am to 2 pm.

·         Come to our Camp War Eagle video show highlighting the summer staff experience and answering a ton of questions:  Thurs. Nov. 19th @ 7 pm in PSU 308AB

·         Interviews are Friday the 20th in the Library.  To sign up for an interview, visit our table or come to the video show on Thursday night.  If that is not possible, please call Alden Napier at 479-466-6684.  (Interview is prerequisite for job).

 

We hope to talk to you soon!

 

 __________________________­­­________

Alden Napier Assistant Director

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­__________________________­­________

Camp War Eagle

O: 479.751.8899

C: 479.466.6684

www.campwareagle.org

alden@campwareagle.org

 

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Students Learn and Earn Up to $6,800 This Summer!

Wind Cave

 

Wind Cave National Park is seeking applicants for up to six park guide positions for the summer of 2009.  The salary is $13.18/hour for 40 hours/week.  Positions start approximately May 17 and run until the end of August.  College students currently enrolled in school and plan on returning in the fall can be hired under the STEP program.  Deadline for the park to receive student applications is March 1, 2009. 

Wind Cave

Park Guide Positions Available

The duties include a full range of interpretive programs and activities.  Guides will be responsible for researching, developing, and presenting four different thematic cave tours; staffing the visitor center information desk; developing and presenting interpretive programs; offering information and orientation services in informal settings such as parking lots and outdoor terraces; and assisting with special projects.

This is an excellent opportunity to develop skills needed for college or beyond.  Park guides will learn computer skills (Powerpoint, Word, Excel), create and write interpretive programs, hone research skills, learn proper money handling techniques, and practice public speaking skills.  These positions interact with people from around the country and the world and will be part of a staff of over twenty people.

Schedule and Benefits

Park guides may be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.  They are eligible to earn annual and sick leave, holiday pay, night and Sunday differential pay.  A valid driver’s license is required as is wearing a National Park Service uniform. 

A stipend is available to help defray uniform expenses.  Housing may be available and consists of a shared furnished apartment or house with kitchens and bath.

Park Guide Qualifications

Applicants must meet qualification standards of a GS-0090-04 Park Guide position.  This requires six months of general experience and six months of specialized experience; OR, two years of education above high school with at least 12 semester hours of related course work; OR, an equivalent combination of education and experience.  Related course work or education related to the occupation includes courses in American History, science, and/or public speaking.

Applicants must be interested in and able to meet and communicate with groups of people.  Experience in interpretation, public speaking, environmental education, or caves would be helpful, but is not required.  Personal transportation is desirable, but not essential. 

 

Wind CaveWind Cave

Location Description

Wind Cave National Park is located in southwest South Dakota in Custer County.  It is sixty miles south of Rapid City and six miles north of the town of Hot Springs.  There are many recreational opportunities in the area including hiking and camping.  The Black Hills location is characterized by warm summer days with cool nights.  Spring weather varies from cool and wet to warm and sunny days.

Wind Cave National Park preserves and protects a complex, three-dimensional maze cave system containing rare formations in its over 130 miles of surveyed cave, and 28,295 acres of mixed grass prairie and ponderosa pine forest containing representative animal and plant species.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a resume, Optional Application for Federal Employment (OF-612), or other written application format of your choice.  If you believe that you qualify for this position based on your education, you must submit a copy of your college transcript (s).  Unofficial transcripts printed from a college website that do not include the student’s name or other identifying information are not acceptable.

Background investigations will be required for all park guide positions.

Faxed or e-mailed materials will not be accepted.

Deadline for student applications is March 1, 2009.

Submit your application package to:

Tom Farrell

Wind Cave National Park

26111 U.S. Highway 385

Hot Springs, SD 57747

 

For additional information about the park, visit our website at www.nps.gov/wica.  For additional information about the positions and student hiring contract Tom Farrell at (605) 745 – 1130 or Tom_Farrell@nps.gov.

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Point O'Pines Camp for Girls in the beautiful Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York is seeking energetic, caring people who enjoy working with children in our Team Sports, Fitness, Waterfront & Recreation Departments for the 2009 summer season.  We hire over 150 staff from all over the world to work with our 325 campers.

We pay for round trip airfare, room, board and salary for the summer. Many of the college students we hire use their experience at Point O'Pines to satisfy internship requirements.

We will have a representative on campus Tuesday, February 10th from 3 to 5 in the Plaster Student Union Room 308 A&B and Wednesday, February 11th from 9 to 1.30.  If you have students who may be interested, please have them come see us.

If you have any questions or need further information, take a look at our website: www.pointopines.com or email info@pointopines.com.

Sincerely,


Sherie Alden
Point O'Pines Camp for Girls
info@pointopines.com

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  Click on photo to see Camp Wyman!!!

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Camp Ronald McDonald at Eagle Lake

 

Subject: Practicum Hours/Experience

 

Dear Sirs:

 

I am writing to you in the hopes that you will promote Camp Ronald McDonald at Eagle Lake’s Program Specialist Positions.  We need Program Specialists to plan, implement and organize our program activities.  The positions will provide an individual the experience of working with a variety of populations including Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, autism, PDD, ADD/HD, muscular dystrophy, hearing imparities, and mental health issues.  Past employees from Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, California, Ohio, Illinois, Minnesota and Texas have walked away with skills, knowledge and wonderful memories.  Our positions are the perfect compliment to any Recreation Therapy, Community Recreation or Recreation/Leisure Studies.

 

Let me tell you a little more about our organization.  Camp Ronald McDonald is a fully accessible residential camp for kids with special needs.  We are located in the high Sierra on the grounds of beautiful Eagle Lake.  A project of Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern California, the goal of Camp Ronald McDonald is to provide confidence-building experiences to children who are “at-risk”, disadvantaged and/or living with physical or emotional disabilities. Our programs are designed to support each camper’s individuality through the challenges of outdoor group living and teamwork in a supportive environment.

           

Camp Ronald McDonald opened in 1992 under the umbrella of Eagle Lake Children’s Charities.  We served 30 disadvantaged and disabled campers during that first year and began to grow steadily.  In 1997, Eagle Lake Children’s Charity merged with a McDonald’s cooperative of owner/operators in Northern California to form Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern California (RMHCNC).  (The cooperative also helped to build a Ronald McDonald House in Sacramento, providing a “home-away-from-home” for families of critically ill and injured children). 

 

Our facility sits on 35 acres on the shores of beautiful Eagle Lake in the middle of Lassen National Forest.  Our site boasts 9 cabins (sleeping 13 each), two shower houses, dining hall, amphitheater, camp fire pit, beach volleyball courts, fully accessible dock and water front, basketball courts and a grassy playing field. In addition to our beautiful layout and environment, we offer an array of programs adapted to meet the individual needs of each camper.  We staff experienced and well trained specialists in the fields of drama, arts & crafts, outdoor education, sports and waterfront activities.   Camp Ronald McDonald also accommodates special dietary requests while still offering a wonderful variety of nutritious and delicious foods to fuel our campers throughout the day.

 

Please encourage your students to visit our website www.campronald.org for job descriptions and application.  I have enclosed a flyer to post and please feel free to contact if there are any questions.   Deadline for applications is February 27, 2009.

 

If you have any problems with this email and/or attachments, please do not hesitate to contact me.

 

Sincerely,

 

Vicky Flaig

Vicky Flaig, MEd, RD

Director

Camp Ronald McDonald at Eagle Lake

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Summer Jobs at Camp Cobbossee

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Girl Scout Flyer

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Dear College Student:

Want to have fun this spring? How about a summer job? Wildwater, West Virginia’s first whitewater rafting outfitter is offering both!

For fun this Spring, bond on a memorable rafting road trip featuring the best whitewater in the eastern U.S. Check out Your Choices:

The Surgical Strike (Fri PM or Sun AM Rafting Only)

ONLY $69!

The Whole Enchilada

ONLY $89!

If you’ve got some studying to do (and really, don’t you always have studying to do?) and are on your last pack of Ramen, check out the Surgical Strike. This adventure is designed to get you in, have lots of fun, get you out and, at $69, save you a few dollars.

If you and the crew want to make a weekend of it, go with the Whole Enchilada and soak in the West Virginia experience. Enjoy the 5-6 hours on the water with lunch and throw in a couple of nights around the fire, a hearty breakfast, a sweet cookout and maybe some hiking on the side (entirely free, by the way). Eighty-Nine bucks(!) is a good investment for your sanity.

Both trips include safety briefing, gear fitting, professional guides and, most importantly, lots of screaming Whitewater!

Work and Play in West Virginia’s playground! If you come to visit Wildwater as a guest, chances are it you’ll think about working here. If you haven’t visited but love being outdoors and active, Wildwater Expeditions offers a wide variety of employment opportunities each summer in West Virginia. We are always looking for people who are energetic, enjoy being outdoors, have an eye for detail and are hard working. It is also essential that staff members be strong role models for our fun seekers. Our season runs from May until September. This makes for a perfect summer job while on break. You can apply any of the following opportunities:

Guides (no experience necessary)

Office Staff/Reservations

Grounds

Drivers (CDL required)

Call:  1-800-WVARAFT

http://www.wvaraft.com

==============================

Steve,

 

Good to hear from you!  I hope everything is good!  Part time jobs - we look for lifeguards, day camp counselors and park maintenance positions.  We currently have no full-time positions open, but hopefully after we complete our new community center we will have some open in 2010.

 

I have attached my business card as you have requested, let me know if there is anything else I can help with.

 

Sincerely,

 

Gerald Brown, CPRP, AFO

Director of Parks & Recreation

City of Sunset Hills

(314) 842-7265

gbrown@sunset-hills.com

==============================

Hi Steve;  I’m sticking some business cards in the mail yet today.  Great promo!  It doesn’t appear there is a strong TR emphasis?  Has that changed?  Summer jobs?  We have lots of Part time weekend hours and a couple full time openings for Direct Support Staff to work with adults with developmental disabilities.  We are a residential program serving over 300 adults throughout the St. Louis, St. Charles and Marthasville communities.  If you have any interested students, they can apply on-line at emmaushomes.org  .  I worked the summer of 1976 before graduating in 1977, and it “changed my life!”  Dennis Kramme [ KRAMMED@emmaushomes.org ]

==============================

Steve,

 

Good afternoon!  I hope all is well and thank you for the e-mail.  Our company actually has several summer positions available as an Event Manager but those will be closing very quickly and I will note require physical labor and driving a 26’ box truck.  That said I have copied Danielle Scott and Mike Lorraine on this e-mail so they can forward you the overview and information.  It would require the student to move to Nashville or Maine during the duration of the term.  Which I am sure you have a few that may like that…both are beautiful locations for those that love the outdoors. 

 

Here is our website www.CompassRoseEvents.com and I have attached our services guide for general information.  Either Mike or Danielle can send you the position overviews; I can’t seem to find it when I need it.

 

I hope your cabin is coming along nicely.  I saw the pictures a few months ago and it looked nice.  All of my updated contact information is listed below.  I do have something else I would like to speak with you about.  I will reach out to you via phone for that.  It is a possible event in September for Cox Health.  I have a meeting with them in a few weeks and should know more to speak with you by the end of next week.  Not sure if what I am thinking is a fit bit but I will give you a call when I have my ducks in a row.

 

My business card is in the mail to you.

 

Regards,

 

Brian

 

Brian Long

Project Manager

Compass Rose Events

 

Phone:  (636) 352-5226

Fax: (207) 633-2923

 

BLong@CompassRoseEvents.com

 

www.CompassRoseEvents.com

==============================

Steve,

Summer job-wise we are hiring for resident camp right now.  We do have a full time job out of the Springfield office for a membership consultant.  Those positions go out into communities and recruit girls and leaders and then support the volunteers throughout the year.  Occasionally they plan and implement programs as well.  It is really our entry level executive position – both Brigitte and I started out that job. 

 

Any one interested in summer camp jobs would contact Carolyn Imhoff at cimhoff@girlscoutsmoheartland.org

 

Stefanie

==============================

We have plenty of summer jobs available including day camp counselors, inclusion camp counselors, aquatic staff, front desk, concession workers, and park laborers.  Unfortunately, no f/t positions available at this time.  If there is still someone in need of an internship, we can discuss that as well.

 

Teresa Proebsting
PARC Director

THE HEIGHTS
8001 Dale
Richmond Heights, MO  63117
314.655.3650 direct dial
314.267.7120 cell
314.645.0502 fax

"We will be known forever by the tracks we leave".
American Indian Proverb

==============================

Hi Steve,
 
I am currently working for Student Convervation Association or SCA.  www.thesca.org  They are always looking for interns and part time positions.  It would be great for Recies.  A lot of national parks and forests are receiving stimulus money and new jobs are opening up.  If you have any more questions, please feel free to e-mail or call.
 
816-830-3406, bruegger_shawn@hotmail.com

Shawn Bruegger

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Missouri Department of Conservation Openings, click here.

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Missouri Department of Natural Resources Openings, click here.

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U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Openings, click here.

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Positions posted with Kansas Recreation & Park Association, click here!

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Steve,

I have attached a flyer to this email that has the job opening as well as contact information and our web address.  Students can also go to our website and find out lots more information about our camp and can find the summer staff application there.  The website is www.campsummittx.org.  Please let me know if you have any further questions.

Campfully Yours,
Jessica Miller
Assistant
Camp Director


Camp Summit
17210 Campbell RD
Suite 180-W                                                                 

DallasTX 75252                                                                        

www.campsummittx.org
j.miller@campsummittx.org
972-484-8900 ext. 103

The mission of
Camp Summit is to provide barrier free outdoor experiences that promote personal growth and foster independence for children and adults with disabilities.

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Click here for positions listed with SLARC!

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TRAGSL Jobs in TR . . . Click here!

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Recreation Therapy of The Ozarks (RTO) . . . Click here!

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Travel/Tourism/Meeting Planning/Event Management Jobs, Click here!

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Here's a place you can post your interest in a job!

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 MWR Employment click here!

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A Note from Tim Eberle . . ., Leadership Ranch, Republic, MO

Hi Steve,

Right now, I don't know of any jobs, but  I do periodically hear of some, so I'll keep an eye out.

I'm not sure what your department's concerns or interests might be, but there are huge problems within the challenge course industry.  Control of it has passed to two professional organizations that run it all as there personal business, extorting money, limiting access, raising costs, and generally parasitizing camps to where camps are just getting out of challenge courses.  I've been mired in this mess for over 5 years now.  It has raised prices, pulled money out of communities, and created safety risks, all to boost their egos and profits.  It will affect any of your students interested in challenge courses.  It is all very calculated, while saying it's all about safety, etc.  Throw in some incompetence on top of ego and greed, and we all have to live with where we are now.  It is a huge detriment to communities.  I can't tell you how many times I've heard experienced professionals mockingly refer to them as brain surgeons or rocket scientists.

I've done this for 25 years now.  As a very proactive individual, and a course owner for 16 years, I'm very familiar with what is going one.  Who wouldn't want to be on the ownership side of a monopoly?  We are all left to deal with the down side of what monopolies do to those who depend on it.  After 25 years in this field, $250,000 and much sacrifice, I am very well acquainted with what is going on.  Education is the only way to affect it.  I fear what is yet to come, as I see what they now want to do.

 A classic example is excluding 30 years of professional experience and research (about 6,000 days worth), then saying I don't meet the minimum level of 200 days of experience.  This, while saying the process is "designed to be exclusive".  Then you have to pass an interview, can be kicked  out any time for any reason (after they've taken your $3000 fee), turn over all financial information, turn over all clients names, work for them for free, and sign a confidentiality clause.  Of course, when people get kicked out for things like "not being in the field for the right reason", their entire business is picked up by one of the good old boys.  Your students, and our community, all communities, deserve better than this.  Camps are sick of it and are very verbal about it.  Exclude any form of competition, and prices go up.  It was voted on at an ACCT meeting, to "keep people out", and PRCA enacted the same rules.

 WEA people mentioned these conflicts (PRCA vs. ACCT), conference attendees complained about it, and foreign attendees complained about it.  I can't give my clients a straight answer.  When I call insurance providers and both professional organizations to get information, I get different answers from all of them.  It's a disgrace, but that's what these established leaders give us.  Complain at your own risk as they blackball dissent or even questions.  We all deserve better than this.  It would be so simple but for the ego and greed.  It would be good to educate your students to this reality.  Is this the way professionals want this field to go?

Tim

============================== 

Hi Steve-

We are not currently taking interns for the summer, but we are taking applications for the fall semester.  Does that help?

 

Nancy Lillich ( Nancy.Lillich@coxhealth.com )

Group Exercise Manager

Cox Fitness Centers

417-269-5147

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TR Job Announcement

============================== 

Hello Steve:

 

I haven't talked to you for some time so I will update you on what is going on in my life.

 

I left Great Wolf Lodge in May of last year where I was the Director of Aquatics.  I went to work for the City of Overland Park where I have worked seasonally in a variety of positions since I was 14 and also completed my internship with them.  The City built a new community center ( Matt Ross Community Center) and I am the Supervisor of the Community Center.  We opened in August of 2007.  I am responsible for the daily operations of the community center which includes room reservations, workout facility, basketball courts, membership desk and a child watch area.  I have around 38 employees and 5 assistant supervisors. 

I will most likely be hiring again in the summer time.  Our website is www.opkansas.org

 

On a more personal note between switching jobs and opening a community center my husband and I welcomed a baby boy Jackson on November 23rd.

 

Talk to you soon,

Renee Reis (Hunter), eenerh2002@yahoo.com

Hey there! Lots and lots going on here.  Pretty excited about most of it.  On top of being 1/2 way through my MBA and lovin` it.  Back in July, started my own business on the side that is going well, Conditioning Concepts Fitness Training Systems (www.conditioningconcepts.net). It is a sports conditioning personal training business. I contract through a couple of gyms here locally. As far as my full-time I am still at Jefferson Memorial Hospital. I am currently the "Super Coach" over about 50 Service Excellence Advisors for customer service (group of "voluntold" front liners at the hospital), working with one local program called Get Healthy Desoto on their task force for a healthy and active community. Starting up a Healthy and Active Community Initiative for where I grew up down the road in Festus (www.getfitfestus.com   ..... coming soon). It will be a local health dept., YMCA, city admin and JMH partnering together. Still working with a planning committee for St. Louis Association for Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehab. 

 

On the personal side my oldest is 5 year old Drew!  Getting ready for Kindergarten in Aug., and my youngest 22-mo. Keaton. Jenny is still working for the State Hospital in Farmington MO as Rec Therapist and getting to be a successful realtor!!  (despite the sucky market......) I just completed my second-half marathon two days ago (gostlouis.org) for GO! St. Louis.  Have two more scheduled in the next 6 months.  

 

As far as positions open, I am hoping to have a cardiac rehab part-time open soon for an exercise professional. Will for sure let you know. If anyone is ever interested in a VERY well-rounded Wellness Internship in the St. Louis area, I am game. Trying to make Wellness at JMH a Service Line not just a program offered to employees. I am tied in with most every cardiac rehab/wellness program in the St. Louis area . Will send any opportunity your way.  

 

Hope is all going well and talk to you soon.  Sorry for rambling on, just got back from class tonight and all wound up!!

 

Yours in health,

 

Andrew Held ( andrewheld@charter.net )

314-435-2024

"the only place that success comes before work is in the dictionary." --Vince Lombardi

=============================

Sportservice is always accepting applications to work in concessions.   Anyone can apply at the Springfield Cardinals Retail Store during business hours.  Let me know if I can do anything to help.  We also accept interns.   A better email address for me is lendicot@dncinc.com.  This is my work address.  Thanks.  Lori (Endicott)

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Here is a random "employment" link, unrelated to recreation, that the editor is posting . . . just to browse if you like.  Who knows where it may lead you?

 

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National Salary Study of Outdoor Recreation Planners

 

Thinking about traveling to Europe or elsewhere international this year?  Better airfares with airline consolidators!

 

RLS Guest Speaker, by Senior Brian Wilfong

Sarah Whitten Williams(Click on photo) Sarah Whitten Williams `02, research for SDC, recently spoke to RLS students.  She talked to us about how to conduct research and different ways there are to get your end result.  There is different information to gather: demographics, geographics, psychographics, and the behavior of people.  Research can lead you to a sound media mix needed to reach your target market.  Roughly, the typical process is: 1. Define what you are looking for. 2. Select your methodology. 3. Build a questionnaire. 4. Collect your data.  5. Process your data. 6. Analyze your data. 7. Present your results.  Sarah grew up in Kansas, Missouri, Texas, California and more.  She lives in Hollister, Missouri today.  She graduated from Reeds Spring High in `98.  There she was involved with Vocational Industrial Clubs of America (VICA), and worked part-time for the local Pizza Hut.  While at Missouri State, she worked at Battlefield Mall.  She completed her internship at Independence Center in Independence,  Missouri in marketing with Jason Mummert `99 as her mentor.  Her first title at Silver Dollar City (SDC) in Branson, Missouri is promotions coordinator. The promotions manager and she put together promotions for all SDC attractions (i.e. Silver Dollar City, Celebration City, White Water, Showboat Branson Belle and Grand Village). They basically did sweepstakes and discount promotions. Another part of her job was marketing for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular which took up most of her time.  If any students are interested, Summer/Fall would be the best time to do an internship with SDC since they are closed Jan.-Mar.  The number for Human Resources is 417-338-8122.  She would suggest calling HR to inquire about any possible openings.  Anyone who is interested in doing a marketing related internship could send their resume to her at, and she will forward it on. Sarah says, "The RLS faculty and students were just wonderful!  It was always fun, but I still learned so much.  I loved the video projects 'Dr. Kermit' had us do." In Marketing 485 ("Marketing Yourself") she says she learned all about networking, dressing for success, and various other subjects that are important when working in the business world. "I learned a lot from that class, and would highly recommend it." At the meeting, Sarah said, "I've changed departments at Silver Dollar City.  I'm now working in the Corporate Research Department helping with various projects for all of the properties which the corporation owns including Dollywood, Stone Mountain Park, Dixie Stampede and the attractions here in Branson.

 

Job Description:

Student Intern

 

GOAL OF POSITION:

To provide students in the field of Parks and Recreation with an opportunity to apply their academic study with real world experience and fulfill their university requirements.  To enhance the operations of the Olivette Parks and Recreation Department and residents with the assistance of interns. 

DUTIES:

The intern will assist staff and management in planning, coordinating and operating recreation programs and services.  Areas include: community center management, front desk, programming, special events, concessions, day camps, sports leagues, field maintenance, park maintenance and park and facility rentals.  Will also plan and implement a recreation program.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Intern should be a senior or graduate student majoring in Parks and Recreation at an accredited institution.

TIME FRAME:

Number of hours required by the college or university.  Typically 35-40 hours per week for 10-14 weeks.  Hours may vary throughout the internship, requiring some evenings and weekends. 

BENEFITS:

Negotiable. 

CONTACT: 

Tracey Kent, Recreation Coordinator

Olivette Parks and Recreation

9723 Grandview Drive

Olivette, MO 63132

Phone: (314) 994-2403

Fax: (314) 991-1346

Email: tkent@olivettemo.com

 

MPRA Education Calendar, click here!

 

FIELD TRIP:  GARDEN OF DREAMS & HONEY BRANCH CAVE

 

  Garden of DreamsGarden of Dreams REC 320 Spring 2008 at Honey Branch Cave Garden of Dreams  Garden of Dreams  Garden of Dreams  Garden of Dreams 

  Garden of Dreams CabinGarden of Dreams

 

NRPA, click here!

 

Words from an alum . . . John Hardin `00 . . . I hope everything finds you well in Springfield, MO.  I have taken a different job and relocated to Arlington, Texas.  I am now a professional pitching instructor and coach for the Arlington Wizards Baseball Academy.  It is owned and operated by former major league baseball player Cecil Espy.  He played for the Pirates, Reds, Rangers, Dodgers.  It is a blast.  I give private lessons, am a roaming pitching coach with all of our teams, and will be the head coach of my own team next year.  And to my surprise, I have to eat every bad word that I have ever said about classes because... I actually am using it all in the real world.  We make our own brochures, flyers, and business cards on the computer.  I would never have guessed when we made those brochures in REC 390 that I would ever do that again.  If you get a chance give me an e-mail I am at deerboy65622@yahoo.com      Good luck in Missouri! 

 

ATTENTION ALL RECREATION AND LEISURE STUDIES STUDENTS
Your student organization, RLSA (Recreation & Leisure Studies Association) is recruiting members.  We have a lot of great events planned for you this year including social and professional activities.  Becoming a member will provide you with numerous advantages, opportunities both this year and in the future.  Stop by the RLSA Office (under the stairwell next to KGSX 118), talk with a member, pick up a calendar of events.  Looking forward to seeing you all!  Sincerely, RLSA Leadership.

 

Tom Johannsen, Owner

Competitive Audio

Springfield

Inventory and Inventory Control

by Senior Beth Pennington

Tom is the owner of a local car stereo shop, Competitive Audio.  This establishment has been around for fifteen years.  This business does installations on a variety of cars.  The business started with an emphasis on car stereos and has grown to installing about accessory needed for your car.  As of now they install the most tinting installations in all  Springfield.  Local car dealerships are down in inventory due to the economy at this time.  Income and inventory also differ in the month of the year it is.  May is known to be the peak month because many people want to buy a new car and get installations for the upcoming summer season.  Through Tom’s hard work and dedication, his business is a success.

 

REC 190 Potluck Supper Photos . . .

REC 190 Potluck Supper  REC 190 Potluck Supper  REC 190 Potluck Supper  REC 190 Potluck Supper

 

PROMOTION FOR ALUM MARNATTI BRADDY `95

Kim Marnatti Braddy is now the executive director of the Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce.  She is still handling the Convention and Tourism Division.  CONGRATULATIONS KIM ! ! ! 

PRESIDENTIAL DOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOWSHIPS . . . are highly prestigious and competitive $25,000 annual awards for graduate study at the University of Idaho.  They are awarded only to students beginning their doctoral programs in Fall 2002. Individuals entering doctoral programs in any discipline are eligible to apply.  The stipend is $18,000.  Nonresident tuition is waived.  The remaining $7,000 is to be used for graduate and course fees, health insurance, other program-related expenses (books and travel to professional meetings).  Information.  Steve Hollenhorst, Professor and Department Head, Department of Resource Recreation and Tourism, University of Idaho, College of Natural Resources, Moscow, Idaho 83844-1139.  Phone: 208-885-7911.  Fax: 208-885-6226.  Email:  stevenh@uidaho.edu .  Website: http://www.its.uidaho.edu/default.aspx?pid=35977 .

Have fun earning volunteer hours . . . Therapeutic Riding of The Ozarks (TRO) needs enthusiastic volunteers to work with children with disabilities in a unique horseback riding program.  We will train students to work with both the children and horses.  Info:  Council of Churches,  862-3586, Kent Crumpley.

 

Alum news from Brett Williams `89 . . . 

Hello, this is Brett Williams ( bretalic@ipa.net ) from Nevada, MO.  I graduated in `89 with a private and commercial rec degree.  I don't know if you remember me, but I was 6'3" with red hair.  We went spelunking one time with a class.  I also went on the trip to Las Vegas with for a resort convention. I found your website and wanted to say hello.  I now live in Nevada and work for 3M corporation, of course not using my college degree.  I tell my wife all the time about the good times that we had there in the department.  Even though it has been 12 years, it still seems like yesterday.  p.s.  I have two boys, Isaac 4years and Ian 8 months.  (Brett completed his internship at a ski resort in Colorado.)  

Graduate Assistantship . . . in Outdoor Recreation Resource Management (RRM), State University of New York, College of Environmental Science & Forestry (ESF).  Prospective masters, doctoral students interested in social & ecological management of outdoor recreation should apply.  Topical areas of interest include but not limited to visitor management, wilderness management, park & facility planning, conflict management, sociological & psychological components of the visitor experience.  RRM is housed in Faculty of Forestry at ESF.  Students are encouraged to integrate courses from other ESF departments, Syracuse University, and Cornell University.  Assistantship (to support the teaching program) includes a tuition waver. Assistantships range from $8,000 to $18,000/yr.  Funding is available for up to 4 semesters (masters), six semesters (PhD) depending on performance evaluations,  available State funding each year. ESF ranked among top 4 forestry schools in the U.S. & has a 90-year tradition of excellence in forest management, environmental science with alumni including Bob Marshall.  We're situated in the rolling-green glaciated hills of Central New York, adjacent to the six million-acre  Adirondack State Park, the Finger Lakes, Thousand Island areas.  Contact: Dr. Chad Dawson (315-470-6567, cpdawson@esf.edu Dr. Rudy Schuster (315-470-4863), rschuster@esf.edu .  Web Site: www.esf.edu .

Walnut Street Inn Owner Visits RLS . . . Gary Blankenship owns the Bed & Breakfast located at 900 E. Walnut Street here in Springfield a few blocks away from Missouri State University.  The B&B has 12 rooms.  Each room features a private bath, in-room phones and data ports, cable television, entertainment/info packets, and comes with a full gourmet breakfast.  The price of the rooms range from $89-169 per night. Gary’s in his 10th year of owning the Walnut Street Inn.  Nine employees that work for him . . . housekeepers, innkeepers, a cook and a manager.  Gary has a very low employee turnover rate.  Gary’s main customers are business travelers who usually occupy the rooms Sunday thru Thursday.  On weekends the B&B is usually filled with honeymooners, parents, and people attending weddings.  The customers’ ages range from 35-55.  Gary spoke to students in RLS this year.

MARYLAND HEIGHTS RECREATION INTERNSHIP

THE CITY

The City of Maryland Heights, Missouri was incorporated in May 1985. Located in northwest St. Louis County, the City has a population of 25,400 residents, increasing during the day to over 90,000 as a result of its major concentration of businesses, offices, hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues.  The City is a statutory city with a City Administrator form of government. There are six departments: Police, Public Works, Finance, Parks and Recreation, Planning and Zoning, and Building and Code Enforcement. The City employs 200 full-time employees and has a budget of over $40 million.  INTERNSHIPSThis program is for undergraduates pursuing a degree in Parks and Recreation or a related field. Interns will work with the Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation and will be exposed to the operations of the entire department (planning, programming, budgeting, registrations, supervision, etc.) including, but not limited to Maryland Heights Centre, Aquaport, Sportport, Eise Memorial Park and Vago Park over the course of the internship. Attendance at Parks Commission meetings, staff meetings, and professional meetings will also be a part of the assignment.  COMPENSATIONInterns will earn $360 per week, working 40 hours per week for 12 weeks ($4,320). No benefits will be provided other than training and appropriate reimbursement of out of pocket expenses such as on-the-job travel.  QUALIFICATIONSApplicants should have completed all undergraduate course work.  APPLICATIONTo be considered, applicants must submit the following:  A letter of interest addressed to the Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation, Maryland Heights Centre, 2344 McKelvey Road, Maryland Heights, MO 63043, resumé, letter of reference from a college advisor or professor.  Applications should be submitted at the earliest possible date. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Employment begins the first week in June and will continue through August, unless other arrangements are made.  The City is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

 

 

 

Jim Woods 76' ( jwoods@mvpolys.com ) It’s has been awhile.  I have retired from both the military and law enforcement and picked up a Master of Education along the way.  I am finally putting my education to work as a 61 year old.  I’m working in the Twin Falls, Idaho School District in a therapeutic recreation environment.  Our school is annexed to the high school and the Alternative High School.  We’re working with kids who have been suspended from the system due to an emotional diagnosis.  We place them in a very positive cognitive self-change environment that challenges them to accept responsibility for what they do and let go of the things they can't control.  We have a capacity for 16 students and we have 11 staff so it’s a high accountability program.  I’m doing psycho-social rehab with them in a recreational mode.  Mornings are dedicated to academics and afternoons to cultivating social skills and community ed.  To be accepted into our program, they have to be in the juvenile corrections system, be diagnosed as E.D., and have at least two major DMSR IV issues.  Most of them are Bi-Polar/PTSD/ADHD diagnosed.  Even though it has been 30+ years since SMS, I find that I draw daily on things that the faculty taught us.  I thank you guys for all you do.  Sometimes it takes a little while to sink in . . . LOL.  I also run a polygraph business for some extra cash . . . go figure!  I retired 3 years ago and work two jobs to stay retired.  It has to be a sickness . . . .

Dude Ranch Programmer Visits RLS, by Junior Dustin Sparks

Jason Roy `02, recreation programmer at Horseshoe Canyon Dude Ranch, visited RLS this year.  Jason graduated in `02 after doing his internship with the ranch.  He was planning on moving out West after he graduated but while working at the ranch he had opportunities to network himself and meet a lot of people, so he ended up staying there.  The ranch, located near Jasper, Arkansas has new 13 log cabins.  The main draw at the ranch is horseback riding, but caving, rock climbing, skeet shooting, Frisbee Golf, and float trips are also available.  Word about the ranch is spreading quickly across the nation, so there are tentative plans to expand the camping area to accommodate more visitors in the future.  Mainly families stay at the ranch during the busy season, the summer, and they usually stay up to a week.  The cost for them to stay is around $3,000 for the week, but that price includes everything they need to have an enjoyable time.  Internships are available at the ranch for wranglers, guides, and children’s programs.  Jason said that the most important aspect of working at the ranch is being able to work well with the people.

EASY TO CONTACT FACULTY:  Dr. Keith Ernce, director ( keithernce@missouristate.edu ); Dr. Hugh Gibson, Outdoor/Adventure Recreation ( hughgibson@missouristate.edu); Dr. Tommy Burnett, Administration of Recreation ( tommyburnett@missouristate.edu ), Dr. Steve Illum, Tourism/Commercial Recreation & Office of Leisure Research ( steveillum@missouristate.edu ); Dr. Yating Liang ( yatingliang@missouristate.edu ).

LOOKING FOR A RESORT HOTEL SALES & MARKETING JOB, LIVING IN/NEAR NYC?

Contact Mr. Gerard Sclafani ( gsclafani@rosewoodhotels.com ).  Gerard is a former student of Dr. Steve Illum's when Steve was teaching in Niagara Falls.  Take a look at this beautiful Italian-owned and developed property in The Grenadines called Carenage Bay!  Fun property to sell!  Upscale!  Tell Gerard that Steve suggested you contact him, please.

TOURISM MARKETING STUDENTS NEEDED . . . A half-time research assistant position for students pursuing a Ph.D. degree at Texas A&M University, Department of Recreation, Park & Tourism Sciences in tourism marketing.  Open to students beginning the doctoral program at TAMU.  Earn a $1,100/month stipend, receive medical insurance, have all tuition & fees paid.  Scholarship available in addition to stipend, other benefits.  More info!  If interested, contact Marguerite Vandyke, Graduate Admissions Coordinator at mvandyke@rpts.tamu.edu or (979) 845-7324, or Dr. Petrick at jpetrick@tamu.edu or (979) 845-8806. Prospective candidates for the position must meet admission requirements for the doctoral program and Graduate School requirements for receiving an assistantship.

Wes Bair & Jim MentisJim Mentis & Wes Bair, Co-Founders of the Recreation and
Leisure Studies Program at Missouri State


  Wes & Jim
To all our alum friends out there,

Mentis:
I taught for 25-1/2 years at Missouri State and retired in 1988. I continued to teach the Practicum course in the Program until the early 1990s. These days, you’ll find me walking every day for an hour either at North Town Mall, McDonald Arena, or in my neighborhood, depending on the weather. I enjoy visiting my son and his family in Rolla. He’s on the faculty at the University of Missouri there. I was traveling to Boulder, Colorado quite a lot when my grandson played football for University of Colorado. I went out there for his games. I travel to Ohio every year to visit my brother and see some of Ohio State’s football games. I visit Fayetteville, Arkansas and the University of Missouri, Columbia every year to see their football games too. I attend all Missouri State football and men’s and women’s basketball games whenever I can. I also see a good share of local high school games in Springfield. I served as the immediate past president of Springfield Football Quarterbacks’ Booster Club. I do quite a bit of reading, and enjoy weekly visits to public libraries to find books. I certainly don’t hurt for things to do. I keep very active. Occasionally, I will think of my former students’ names, and will remember them in class. We had some good times together. I’ve looked over your "Rec Rag" newsletter, and alum pages on this Internet thing. I remembered all of my students on there. It sure brings back so many good memories and feelings. I was really impressed with all your achievements and accomplishments, in spite of all of us who did our best to teach you what little we knew. Steve Illum, here, says you can reply to my article by just sending a message to me through him at steveillum@missoruistate.edu . He’ll make sure I get what you send if you do. It would be great to hear from you. 

Bair:
I’m still in the Department. My teaching responsibilities are no longer in recreation, but in physical education. I teach the physical education methods class to elementary classroom teachers. I also teach the activities of bowling and golf. I continue my fitness regimen as does Jim Mentis, but also somehow find a lot of time to play golf. I look forward to retirement about two years away. Jim and I truly enjoyed getting the RLS major started. It’s a Program that we needed. The faculty that we brought in are doing an outstanding job.

Jim Mentis `47

Here he is folks!  The one! The only!
JIM MENTIS (1947)

 

Barbara Bowden `83 Success Story, by Senior Austin Thompson

Barbara Ducey Bowden(Click on photo) Barbara Bowden is a Florissant, Missouri-born sun-seeker. Barb was a guest speaker in RLS this year.  After graduating from St. Mary’s academy, class of ’79, Barbara took on a degree in Recreation and Leisure Studies at Missouri State University. There, her usefulness began to blossom. She was elected the secretary of Sigma Lambda Sigma while effortlessly keeping the house and its events in flawless order. Barbara was involved in adaptive aquatics, volunteering her know-how and spare time to the Red Cross. Her freshman year, Barbara partook in the Magic Kingdom College Program offered by the Disney Corporation in Orlando, Florida. During her time there Barbara was involved in a natural affair; an affair which quite possibly pulled at her interest with such an intriguing yank that she would eventually find herself back in the cusp of Florida’s wayward arm. It was the balmy nights and the lofty palms swaying in the sea blown breezes which cuddled her spirit. She returned to Missouri with a longing for the Florida flare.