Highlights from the 61st Annual Conference - San Diego, California
March 3-5, 2009
~ 2009 RANGER OF THE YEAR AWARD ~
John Campbell was selected as NFRA's
John is the Recreation Staff Officer on the Heber-Kamas Ranger District on the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. John was recognized and presented his Award at NFRA's Annual Conference. John received numerous accolades not only from the recreation service partners who nominated him - but also from his internal supporters as well. He was nominated by American Land & Leisure - a concessionaire on the forest. Steve Werner, Vice President of AL&L, stated that John has a keen understanding of how to work for the accomplishment of mutual goals, resolves issues quickly, and most importantly - is open, approachable and fair.
John is congratulated by Gloria Manning, Associate Deputy Chief.
Joining in the celebration of John's award were representatives from AL&L, NFRA, and John's parents, Bill and Marlene Campbell.
Pictured from left to right:
Steve Werner, AL&L;
Bill Campbell;
Marlene Campbell;
John Campbell; and
Dick Kemp, NFRA President.
~ PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE AWARD ~
Gloria Manning, Associate Deputy Chief of the Forest Service, received a special NFRA award - the "Pursuit of Excellence" - acknowledging Gloria's thirty years of loyal dedication and commitment to excellence in caring for the land and serving people. NFRA greatly appreciates Gloria's efforts in developing a productive and mutually beneficial working partnership with NFRA throughout the years. Gloria's deep passion for getting kids and their families into the great outdoors has resulted in two Forest Service programs, "More Kids in the Woods" and "National Get Outdoors Day" which have provided inspiration for NFRA's members. Her kind and thoughtful attitude make it a pleasure to work with her, and NFRA wishes her well with her new areas of responsiblity. NFRA's Incoming President, Lynda Breault presented the Award to Gloria at the Conference.
~ PRESENTATION HIGHLIGHTS ~
Bruce Fears, President of ARAMARK Parks and Destinations, was the opening Keynote Speaker. Bruce is responsible for ARAMARKS's operations at over 50 conference centers, corporate training centers and specialty hotels in educational environments, as well as 14 state parks and other resort operations across the United States. Bruce said they are operating under very unusual times, and that conditions are changing every day. They are bracing for a two year down turn, and are taking defensive steps to survive. Much of their market is from international tourists that help sustain their businesses. Even ARAMARK has had to lay off employees and he said it is very painful. He mentioned the effects on employees, vendors and other businesses that occur when corporations or government agencies are prohibited from holding conventions in locations such as Las Vegas. He said the ripple effect of that kind of decision is huge, and has a negative impact on local economies. Bruce indicated that smaller resorts and camping reservations for the coming year looked good - especially if they are within a days drive of an urban area.