July 25, 2006
Greetings fellow members!
TELECONFERENCE A SUCCESS
FOWA held its first phone teleconference board meeting last week. It cost a total of $64, making it much more economical for board members to participate than the former practice of all coming from around the state to meet somewhere. The board voted to continue to meet in person once per year in addition to doing so at the annual conference, and holding teleconference meetings two other times.
Besides quarterly meetings to discuss FOWA business, email is heavily used whenever necessary to maintain close communications.
BRING YOUR BEST IMAGES
A new wrinkle has been added to the FOWA 60th Annual Conference that takes place Sept. 6-10 at Hawk's Cay Resort in the Florida Keys: All registered members can bring up to five of their best images to display during the lunch break on Thursday, Sept. 8. More details about that will soon be emailed to those registered for the conference.
If you haven't signed up yet to be at the conference, wait no longer.
Besides the craft-improvement seminars, attendees will enjoy banquets, cocktail parties, the annual Gala Auction, the popular corporate member Breakout, fishing tournament, interesting speakers such as john bluefeather (not a typo, this hippy-turned-Indian spells his name in lower case, and his wilderness photography is awesome, Billy Causey, Superintendent of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Rodney Barreto, Chairman of the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, and many others. It's a networking opportunity that comes just once per year with Florida's top outdoor communicators and corporate sponsors. Reply back if you don't have the registration form and it'll be sent to you, plus an updated itinerary.
AUGUST 15 DEADLINE
It’s not too late to submit to Doug Kelly, FOWA Executive Director, your story about the Kissimmee area for the 2005-2006 Best Conference Communication. The Kissimmee CVB will judge the best entry and the winner will be announced at the conference at Hawk’sCay Resort (and if present, be given the check for $500!). Those attending the Keys conference will likewise be eligible for this special contest next year and the winner announced at the Homosassa conference.
LEND A HAND WITH FOWA’S FALL FUNDRAISER
As you know, FOWA counts heavily on revenues from the Auction at the Annual Conference. This year's Conference will be well attended and we hope to have the biggest auction ever. The Auction Committee is working to contact previous donors of goods and services, but feel that other members might have contacts and connections we don't know about. FOWA is a 501c3 not-for-profit corporation now and all donations are tax-deductible. Donations of outdoor-related goods and services also reach the 'right' people, as FOWA members are a perfect target market for manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of outdoor products. You might also have connections within the tourism industry at your local Convention and Visitors Bureau. Merchandise, art, guided fishing or hunting trips and accommodations are all within the scope of our needs. FOWA's auction is a great opportunity for donors to be seen by the right people.
Do FOWA a favor and give your contacts a call. See if they're interested in donating and tell them about FOWA. You might even score some FOWA Bucks by signing on a new member!
Donations of merchandise or gift certificates for services should be sent to:
Tommy Thompson
FOWA Auction Committee
24 NW 33rd Ct., Suite A
Gainesville, FL 32607
Any questions regarding donations can be addressed to me at captain@twotree.net or (352) 284-1763
Thanks!
Tommy Thompson, Conference & Auction Chair
MEMBER NEWS
From Herb Allen:
On a sad note: Steve Marusak, founder and president of Cotee Bait Co.
and a corporate member of FOWA since 1989, died peacefully at his home on July 1. Funeral services are scheduled for Friday, 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Peace in New Port Richey.
HIGHLIGHTED MARKET NEEDS
Women In The Outdoors
Women In The Outdoors magazine, National Wild Turkey Federation, 770 Augusta Road, Edgefield, SC 29824
Phone: 803-637-3106
Fax: 803-637-0034
Web site: www.nwtf.org
Our photo needs for the Fall 2006 issue of Women In The Outdoors magazine (deadline for submissions is July 31, 2006) are pictures illustrating
women:
* backpacking with dogs
* white-tailed deer hunting (alone or with a spouse)
* cooking in a Dutch oven
* shooting a shotgun (turkey hunting or sporting clays)
* cleaning gardening/yard tools
We also are looking for shots of:
* dogs outfitted for backpacking
* Dutch ovens
* chocolate (candies and such)
* brewing tea
* fox squirrels
Please send no more than FIVE SLIDES of any one species or subject.
Photos must show women practicing safety and ethics. If possible, each photo should have a written caption with a description of the shot and the names of the people shown. Please send the original (not duplicates) transparencies; 35mm slides are preferred. Contact the editor before sending digital images. The expected return date for photos selected for consideration is usually 3 to 4 months from the time we receive the submission. For use of slides, we can pay $75 for 1/3 page or less, $100 for
1/2 page, $125 for full page and $175 for a 2-page spread. The deadline for photo submissions for the Spring 2006 issue is July 31, 2006.
The NWTF/Women In The Outdoors magazine does not pay research fees, and all submissions, unless approved otherwise by the editor, are sent at the expense of the photographer.
Please include all stipulations in using your images when sending your submissions.
If you are interested in submitting photos, please send them to:
Karen Lee, Editor
Women In The Outdoors magazine
National Wild Turkey Federation
P.O. Box 530, 770 Augusta Rd.
Edgefield, SC 29824
(803) 637-3106
klee@nwtf.net
CURRENT MARKETS
Blue Mountain Arts
Blue Mountain Arts, Inc.
Attn: Editorial Department
P.O. Box 1007
Boulder, CO 80306
Email: editorial@sps.com
Website: http://www.sps.com
All submissions should be addressed to "Editorial Department." "Blue Mountain Arts has published greeting cards and gift books for over 30 years. The majority of our products have uplifting messages with a positive theme. Our greeting cards are known for bringing people together with heartfelt messages and sentiments." Welcomes new writers. Pays on acceptance. Period between acceptance and publication varies depending on the product, but is usually within "a few months." Buys "exclusive rights for all greeting cards. If a work is used only in an anthology, the writer keeps the copyright." No reprints. Responds 2-4 months. "Our greeting cards and books are widely available at Cracker Barrel stores around the country, as well as at many other gift shops and bookstores. Our books can also be purchased online at Amazon or Barnes and Noble." Guidelines online at
http://forums.writersweekly.com/viewtopic.php?p=45277 and http:// , by email, or by mail with SASE.
Current Needs: "We are looking for highly original greeting card submissions. We are also accepting book proposals in non-fiction areas such as self-help, family, relationships, positive living, etc." Pays $300 for greeting cards, $50 if a piece is used only in an anthology. Payment for book proposals is negotiable. "Greeting card submissions should be typewritten, one poem per page, and your name should appear on each page. You must enclose a SASE if you would like a response. Email submissions should be sent as the text of the email, not as attachments. If submitting several poems by email, please send them all in one email. See poetry contest guidelines at http://www.sps.com/k/poetry/contest.htm
Book proposals should include an overview of the book, a biography of the author, and at least a few chapters of the book. We do not accept book proposals by email." Photos/Art: "We do not accept freelance artwork or photography." Hints: "Please take note that the majority of the material we publish does not rhyme. Don't be too specific when writing greeting cards, as it will limit the audience. Try to add original details that make a card sound unique, yet are universally shared. It can often help to have someone in mind when writing (a friend, relative, etc.). Become familiar with our products, but then try to submit something that is different from them in some way. We are focusing on finding new voices and new, creative ways of writing and expressing emotion."
OUT-OF-STATE PUBLICATIONS
Blue Ridge Country
Blue Ridge Country
P.O. Box 21535
Roanoke, VA 24018
P(540) 989-6138
F(540)989-7603
Website: http://www.blueridgecountry.com.
Email: cmodisett@leisurepublishing.com
Cara Ellen Modisett, Editor.
75% freelance. "The guide to the Southern Appalachians." Welcomes new writers. Circ 425K. Bimonthly. Pays on publication. Publishes ms 4-12 months after acceptance. Buys first N.A. rights. No reprints.
Responds 2-6 months. Sample $3 + 9x12 envelope. Subscription $17.95.
Guidelines online at http://forums.writersweekly.com/viewtopic.php?t=6154 and http://www.blueridgecountry.com/cu/submit.htm.
Current Needs: "Appalachian history features, particularly baby boomer history. First person outdoor adventure/recreation pieces.
Shorts: mountain festivals; regional food/recipes pieces; mountain-related environmental and travel news. Blue Ridge Country covers the Appalachian regions of VA, WV, NC, SC, TN, KY, GA, AL and MD." Pays $25-$250 for 150-1200 words. Submit query (preferred) or complete ms with cover letter by mail with SASE.
Photos/Art: Pays $40-$150/photo (depending on placement). HINTS: "Study the magazine. Photos: will accept transparencies and high-resolution digital files."
The Heart of New England online magazine
The Heart of New England online magazine
16 Russell Street
Keene, NH 03431
P(603)357-8761
Email: editor@theheartofnewengland.com
Website: http://www.theheartofnewengland.com
Marcia Passos Duffy, Publisher & Editor. 75% freelance. "A weekly online magazine that celebrates the unique character of northern New England -- Maine, New Hampshire & Vermont. Features original articles on the region's travel, food, the arts, northern new England-made crafts/products, and gardening."
Welcomes new writers. Circ. not provided (online only). Weekly. Pays on publication. Publishes ms 2-3 months after acceptance. Buys first electronic rights and article remains online for perpetuity. Accepts reprints. Responds within one month. Sample articles at website.
Subscription free. Guidelines online at http://forums.writersweekly.com/viewtopic.php?p=45279 and http://www.theheartofnewengland.com/writersguidlines.html
Current Needs: "I am looking for travel writers for off-the-beaten path travel stories in Northern New England - about 500-800 (max) words on a place the writer has visited (and loved!) in Maine, New Hampshire or Vermont. Lots of detail, first person account is fine.
Your ties to Northern New England (a resident, frequent vacationer, grandparents live in area, etc.) explained in story. We want a folksy, down-to-earth feel to the piece. Your love of the place you are writing about needs to shine through!" Pays $15 flat fee per story for 500-800 words. 'submit query first with story idea; include your name, address, email address, phone number and short bio" by email.
Photos/Art "Digital photos in JPG file much appreciated (or contact with a chamber of commerce or other organization that can provide a photo for online use if you do not have a photo)." Hints: "Please, stories about northern New England ONLY. New travel writers welcomed and encouraged! We try to rotate among the three states (ME, NH, VT) for balance; we also try to stick with seasonal stories (maple sugaring stories in Feb/March, mud season stories in April, etc.). I also want to stress that I ENCOURAGE reprints! Particularly from articles originally written for northern New England newspapers, etc.
Writers need to make sure that they own the rights to the story (usually if they were on staff at a newspaper, the publication owns the rights)."
Oklahoma Today
Oklahoma Today magazine
120 North Robinson, Suite 600
Oklahoma City, OK 73102
Phone: 405-230-8450
Fax: 405-230-8650
Email: editorial@oklahomatoday.com
Website: http://www.oklahomatoday.com
Steffie Corcoran, Senior Editor (writer submissions); Brooke Adcox, Associate Editor (photography). 80% freelance. "Oklahoma Today provides its readers the best of Oklahoma's people, places, travel, culture, food, and outdoors in an attractive and engaging publication that enhances The Oklahoma Experience." Occasionally works with new writers. Circ. 35K. Bi-monthly. Pays on publication. Publishes ms 6 months after acceptance. Buys "first publication rights, exclusive and worldwide for 120 days from the on-sale date of the issue of Oklahoma Today containing the article. We also reserve additional resell and reprint rights that are outlined in our contract." No reprints. Responds 1-4 weeks. Sample for email request. Subscription $19.95; $29.95 outside of the U.S. Guidelines online at http://forums.writersweekly.com/viewtopic.php?p=44414 and http://oklahomatoday.com/site/editorial/editorialGuidelines.aspx.
Current Needs: 'small stories." Pays $0.25/word for 100-3000 words.
"Query letters and/or complete manuscripts may be sent electronically, or through U.S. postal mail. Please include a bio and copies of your clippings. If you would like your manuscript returned, please include a SASE." Photos/Art: "High resolution digital images of Oklahoma. Right now, we're looking for Route 66 images." Pays $50- $200 for stock photos; $50-$1500 for photo assignments. Photographer guidelines online at http://oklahomatoday.com/site/editorial/editorialGuidelines.aspx
Hints: 'read our magazine. Read Oklahoma newspapers and any other Oklahoma publication you can get your hands on. Keeping up with what goes on in our state is the best way to write stories that we can use. Include a biography of yourself and clips of previous work, so we can see what experience you have.
Realize that the editors receive many manuscripts and that yours will be reviewed as soon as time allows. Don't necessarily expect your first piece in the magazine to be a feature; start small and suggest items for departments such as Across the Range. Even Letters to the Editor are good ways to 'get some ink.' Read the writing and reporting guidelines and familiarize yourself with the magazine before you submit a piece."
CONTRIBUTORS BEWARE
From Bob Bass:
I sent an article to Living Aboard Magazine last year that they said they were going to publish. They even requested a picture of me which I sent, for the magazine.
After the publication date, I sent several e-mails to the editor about payment for the article. She never answered any of the e-mails and never paid me for the article. Now I see they want more articles in the Market edge.
EVENTS
Sol y Luna Kayak Fishing School Announces Fall 2006 Class Dates
Get Hooked on Paddle Fishing at the Sun and Moon Kayak Fishing Resort in Matlacha, FL
Media Note: You are invited to the Sol Y Luna Kayak Fishing School "On-the-Water" Media Day- Tuesday, August 22, 2006. Press activities include paddling instruction, kayak fishing instruction and concludes with dinner at the Sun and Moon.
Summer 2006 --"Learning to cast a fly or artificial lure effectively enough from a stealthy kayak for a fish to mistake it for the real thing is exciting to say the least", says Sol y Luna Instructor, Capt. Greg Bowdish. Considered a "Destination Outdoor School", Sol y Luna has brought together the most experienced and knowledgeable group of instructors currently participating in the sport to teach paddling techniques and kayak fishing. In a fast paced era where time is at a premium and fuel prices are at an all time high, people are looking to fill their life with enriching outdoor experiences that allow for active participation and immersion in a destination's offerings. Today's outdoor enthusiasts want to be involved in the environment. Paddle anglers are seeking new experiences on the water while learning how to pursue saltwater gamefish such as redfish, snook and tarpon.
Kayak fishing is being recognized as an opportunity to slow down, relax and thoroughly explore the challenges in learning the techniques of fishing with fly and artificial lures. At Sol y Luna Kayak Fishing School students will discover the increasingly popular, healthy and fast growing sport of paddle fishing in the heart of the tropical mangroves around Charlotte Harbor and Matlacha Pass.
For those looking for an in-depth exploration into the art of fly and artificial lure fishing from kayaks and paddling instruction, Sol y Luna offers two classes this fall: October 28-29 (Fly Fishing) and November 11-12 (Artificial Lures). This program is designed to teach basics to those new to kayak fishing as well as help paddle anglers with a little more experience sharpen their skills. Unique to fishing schools, Sol y Luna Kayak Fishing School is the first and only of its kind in the country. Classes are taught, "On-the-water"
with emphasis on "fun while learning". Student’s choice of instruction can also be accommodated in Sol y Luna’s full fleet of Ocean Kayaks, the leader in kayak fishing. Students are also welcome to bring their own kayaks.
Sol y Luna Kayak Fishing Class tuition is $350.00 per student. This includes a welcome dinner prepared with fresh local seafood and introductions Friday evening before class at the Sun and Moon Inn, an Ocean Kayak and Angler's Outlet gift bag, lunch for both days, kayak/ paddle/PFD rental, paddling techniques, casting and fishing instructions, fly and artificial lure selection, reading the water and seasonal specifics for targeting saltwater gamefish. All experience levels are welcome and class size is limited to ensure individual attention. Sol y Luna Kayak Fishing School offers personalized instruction with a 4:1 participant to staff ratio.
Local accommodations, many on the water and within easy paddling distance to class, are convenient with a list posted on the Sol y Luna Kayak Fishing School Website. The host site for the October and November class dates is the Sun and Moon Kayak Fishing Resort on the island of Matlacha in southwest Florida. More about this charming bed and breakfast located right on Matlacha Pass is available on the Sol y Luna Kayak Fishing School website. On Friday evening before each class there will be a welcome dinner following check-in at the Sun and Moon. Capt. Greg Bowdish will introduce himself and the staff to students and share an interesting overview of the program for the next two days.
Capt. Greg Bowdish is one of the most respected kayak fishing guides in the country. A true southern native and gentleman, Capt. Greg has been fishing for over 25 years and is a U.S. Coast Guard licensed captain, FFF Certified Fly Casting Instructor, Outdoor Writer and full-time Flats Fishing and Kayak Guide out of Cape Coral, Florida.
He is also on Pro-Staff with Ocean Kayak, Echo Fly Rods, and Airflo Fly Lines. Capt. Greg and the staff at Sol y Luna have taught kayak fishing and paddling techniques across the country and their kayak fishing classes bring both an educational, as well as an entertaining approach to the sport.
On the heels of the Florida Park's Department announcement to link up a designated "Blue Trail" all the way around the state and recent “Blueway Festivals”, Sol y Luna Kayak Fishing School is promoting this unique recreational opportunity to traveling kayakers, anglers and all outdoor enthusiasts, and shares the commitment to build on the state's attention to promoting outdoor lifestyles, paddlesports, fishing and environmental awareness.
Special sessions of the school can be arranged to accommodate corporate and team building outings, fishing and paddling clubs and group trips.
Members of the press attending Sol y Luna Kayak Fishing School Media Day- Please contact the School Administrator at (727) 656-3400.
Deadline to notify school administrator is August 12, 2006.
Contact: Chrystal Murray
Sol y Luna Kayak Fishing School
1158 Tookes Road
Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
Phone: 727-656-3400
http://www.kayak-fishing-school.com
Chrystal@Onshoreoffshore.com
JOBS
Photographers, videographers, writers etc. needed for the Navy Reserve The message is ready to be sent with the following file or link
attachments:
http://www.careerbuilder.com/Jobseeker/Jobs/JobDetails.aspx?psa=1&sc_extcmp=JS_JobAlert_Title&Job_DID=J8A3SV70T7KDHY3KVD0&ipath =PS
Serving part-time in the Navy Reserve allows you to pursue the advantages of civilian life while enjoying the camaraderie, challenges, and many benefits the military offers. Whether or not you have prior service in the military, as a Navy Reservist, you will proudly serve your country as you increase your overall opportunities for success. In exchange, you’ll be rewarded with benefits designed to help you succeed in both your military and civilian lives.
Arts and Photography in the Navy Reserve Capture the takeoff of an F/A-18 from 10 feet away utilizing your Hi8 video cam. Chronicle the exploits of fellow Sailors in 1,500 words or more. Draw on all your strengths to create a better future. The Arts and Photography field in the Navy Reserve offers you the unique opportunity to express your creative ability as you gain invaluable experience working alongside an elite group of military professionals.
If your interest or experience lies in photography, writing, music, illustration, or design, the possibilities are endless. You might operate state-of-the-art photography equipment for a military news conference, create graphics for a high-profile presentation, design layouts for a Navy magazine, or write a feature article that’s picked up by your hometown newspaper.
Jobs in this field include:
* Journalist
* Lithographer
* Musician
* Photographer’s Mate
* As part of this occupational specialty, you could:
* Serve as one of the Navy's professional photographers
* Operate state-of-the-art photography and video equipment
* Shoot portrait photography or aerial photography or perform
photographic copying
* Scan and/or edit digital, still, and video images
* Operate darkroom and laboratory equipment for film/print production
* Serve as a reporter by gathering and communicating news about people, places, and activities in the Navy
* Play in a Navy band
* Prepare illustrations, original art, and graphics using various art media including pencil, pen, airbrush, inks, and paints
* Prepare technical drawings and audiovisual materials, including charts, slides, and graphs and operate projectors
* Operate personal computer/desktop publishing systems
* Design layouts, set type, and make plates for printing
* Operate printing presses
Advanced Training & Certification
Advanced training in photojournalism or digital editing is available to Reservists who display a high level of talent and motivation. This could lead to earning Department of Labor certification as an illustrator, draftsman, or silk screen cutter.
Your training may also prepare you for a future career, or enhance your current career, as a still/studio photographer, TV camera operator, photojournalist, film editor, offset press operator, or illustrator.
To learn how you can pursue an Arts and Photography job in the Navy Reserve, contact your local Navy Reserve Recruiter today.
Contact Information
1-800-USA-USNR
CONTESTS
Canon National Park Photo Contest
June 1 – Sept. 20, 2006
You are invited to share your best national park memories with us!
http://photoworkshop.com/canon/nationalparks/index.htm
2006 NATJA Awards Competition now open!
The 2006 North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA) Awards Competition is now open! Four grand prizes and 39 first prizes from exciting destinations all over the U.S. and beyond will be awarded.
The competition brought in over 550 entries last year and expect even more this year.
There are 21 writer/author categories, four photography categories, four CVB/destination categories and seven editorial categories. Three writer/author and 1 photographer grand prizes will be awarded to entries that the judges deem best overall. Grand prizes include a one- week stay for two at the Avila Beach Hotel in Curacao, a seven-night stay at any Club Med in North America, seven nights at the Laughing Waters Guest Ranch in Montana and lastly, a seven-night prize from Sierra Madre Express.
First prizes typically include three-night stays for two people. All prizes are valid during calendar year 2007 and many have hidden extras, such as breakfasts, dinners, spa treatments, or extra nights.
Certificates, worthy of framing, will be awarded to each winner and runner-up in all 24 categories. While the trip prizes do not apply to the CVBs or publications, a grand prize will be awarded to best overall for both. The grand prize will include one free registration to the 2007 NATJA Conference & Marketplace.
Deadline for submissions is October 1, 2006. Winners will be announced in December and prizes distributed after the first of the New Year.
There are no restrictions on the number of entries. To guarantee an impartial process, judges are journalists or journalism faculty members with no vested interest in NATJA other than enjoying good travel journalism.
Entry forms can be found at . Entry fees are discounted for NATJA members. Please contact NATJA if you have any questions or would like more information.
The North American Travel Journalists Association is the premier professional association of writers, photographers, and editors dedicated to redefining professional development for the travel industry. For more information on the organization or how to join, please visit .
Press Contact:
Hillary Dunn
NATJA
310-836-8712
hillary@natja.org
CORPORATE CORNER
Gerber Legendary Blades
Gerber Legendary Blades signs agreement to purchase Brunton
Portland, OR July 5, 2006—FISKARS, the parent company of Gerber Legendary Blades, announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to purchase the Sweden-based Silva Group including its US subsidiary, The Brunton Company. Brunton is recognized as a leading manufacturer of navigation equipment, personal lighting, sports optics, portable power and camping accessories.
“This acquisition is consistent with previous steps we’ve taken to provide the outdoor enthusiasts with the essential gear they need to fend for themselves as they pursue their activities.” said Jason Landmark, President of Gerber. “We’ve been impressed for some time by their quality and wide array of outdoor products and see it as a natural extension of the Gerber line” added Landmark.
Gerber Legendary Blades is a global manufacturer and marketer of high- grade innovative and branded essential outdoor gear including knives, tools, lights, accessories, packs and hydration. For more information, visit Gerber online at or contact Customer Service at 800.950.6161.
Contact: Mark Schindel
14200 SW 72nd Ave.
Portland, OR 97223
800.777.6805 ext. 1231
mschindel@gerberblades.com
FYI
Waterproof sports camera that straps to your wrist.
Cool!
http://goprocamera.com
