February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1

Permit 8 ® CIMARRON NM T h e M a g a z i n e o f t h e P h i l m o nt S ta ff A ss o c i at i o n® PAID U.S. POSTAGE

Non-Profit Organization high countrY check us out! www.philstaff.com ® Mission unites (PSA) Association Staff Philmont The and present— staff—past Philmont the adventure, purpose of serving the the for Ranch Scout Philmont of experience and heritage Boy Scouts of America. and the 17 DEER RUN ROAD CIMARRON NM 87714 Our Mission High Country®—Volume 36, Number 1 Philmont Staff Association® February 2013 Board Of Directors Ed Pease, Editor Mark Dierker, Layout Editor Jim Lynch, President in this issue Scott Toney, Vice President, Membership Randy Saunders, Associate Editor Tim Rosseisen, Vice President, Service Dave Kenneke, Staff Contributor John Murphy, Vice President, Development columns Kevin “Levi” Thomas, Cartoonist Ray Czech, Secretary Jack Person, Treasurer 4 from the prez Contributing Editors Robert Birkby David Caffey National Directors 5 from the editor Bill Cass Gregory Hobbs Ray Batchelor Warren Smith Mark Stinnett Bill Cass 30 ranch roundup Mary Stuever Stephen Zimmer Ken Davis Mark Griffin 32 i-camp High Country® is the official publication of the Lee Huckstep 37 trail talk Philmont Staff Association® and is published six Steve Rick times per year as a benefit to its members. Steven Zimmer 39 good campsite

© 2012, The Philmont Staff Association, Inc. Regional Directors All rights reserved. No copyright claimed for Northeast articles previously copyrighted or public material. Adam Fromm Permission granted for non-commercial reprinting Kathleen Seitz 8 psa news - nye@the ranch or redistribution with proper attribution. Central 10 psa news - regional reunions High Country®, Philmont Staff Association®, Catherine Hubbard PSA® and the official PSA logo® Chris Manheim 11 psa news - 2012 canoe voyage are all registered trademarks of: Southern 14 psa news - 2013 celebration trek The Philmont Staff Association, Inc. Bryan Delaney 16 2012 annual giving report 17 Deer Run Road Mark Leinmiller Cimarron, 87714 20 2013 psa annual mtg/reunion 575-376-1138 Western Amy Boyle 22 ptc news - spanish woodbadge For membership and subscription information, Michael Waggoner visit our website at: 24 psa elections Bill Mckown, Ranch Committee Representative 25 casting for recovery WWW.PHILSTAFF.COM Ed Pease, Immediate Past President Mark Anderson, Philmont Staff Advisor 26 philmont history - vtc in ‘63

Ex Officio Members 28 philmont history - dragoons in nm ® High Country welcomes articles, photos and Emery Corley, Legal Advisor 35 good reading letters for consideration for future issues. Douglas Fasching, Technology Manager On the cover: The 75th Anniversary Submission does not guarantee publication. participant Arrowhead patch which will The editors and publisher reserve the right to be used all this summer. See story on other select and edit materials to be published. Randy Saunders, Executive Director page 20. Send submissions, letters or comments to Julia Mcculloch, Office Manager 6 bulletin board “ High Country” at the above address or e-mail: [email protected] PSA® FELLOWS 6 under the zia Bob Harvey Fellow 31 87714 pride If you would like to receive High Country® PAUL and MARY JANE HARVEY

in electronic rather than paper format, please Glenn A. Fowler Fellow contact the PSA office at [email protected] BRUCE BARNES

George A. Bullock Fellow Members Only Access ® Opinions expressed in High Country are those of WILLIAM D. BRYCE Contributing Writers the writers and, unless otherwise stated, Dave Bates Cathy Hubbard Lee Huckstep Joe Davis Fellow USER NAME:SIXMILEGATE do not necessarily reflect the views of the BILL CASS Doug Latimer Chris Manheim Warren Smith Philmont Staff Association®, Philmont John A. Maxbauer, Jr. Fellow cout anch or the oy couts of merica Password: elkhorn Mark Stinnett S R , B S A . ANONYMOUS

Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 3 from the president

To start my first column of 2013, I’d like half of the year, until donations came in the satisfaction of knowing they help housing per person for that weekend. to congratulate the almost 400 crazy later. To avoid having to secure these keep the PSA from having to spend It is a fun time to relax and enjoy the PSA members who came together to loans (and therefore spending some of resources on loan costs that otherwise Ranch with other PC members. meet our Annual Fund goal by the last our annual budget just to service debt), could go to help Philmont. But they In closing, I invite anyone who day of 2012! I ask my rhetorical ques- the PSA formed the President’s Circle also get a token of appreciation for thinks that the PC membership fits in tion again. to bring in some large donations in the their financial leadership, like a set of their budget to join. Contact Randy at “Are we crazy to fund the PSA this first three months of the calendar year. coasters, or 4 glasses with the PC logo the PSA Office at psadirector@philstaff. way?” Since its inception in 2006, the Presi- emblazoned on it. The only other thing com or by calling 575-376-1138. We ap- I think for an organization like dent’s Circle has obviated the need for they get is an invitation to come to preciate all our donors, those that give ours, it really is the only way to oper- short term loans of any kind. the Ranch in mid to late October for a with their time and talents as well as ate—it keeps our budgets tight, the Second question – Who? We wel- special weekend of tours, and events their treasure – and we look forward to board accountable, and most impor- come anyone to join. In the beginning, just for them and their families. Keep- seeing you this summer at the Ranch! tantly it maximizes our support to we solicited some larger donors to get ing with our ethos of paying our way, Philmont. Now it is on to 2013—with the Circle going. The idea was that attendees pay a $75 fee for food and -Jim Lynch another week long reunion celebrat- once you join the President’s Circle ing 40 years of the PSA and 75 years of (PC) you stay in for at least a few years. Philmont! Many of our charter members are still from the editor One of the first things the PSA has members. But all of our members are done every year since 2006 is crank up welcome to participate. • Apparently, the PSA membership supports the Board’s decision to expand the the President’s Circle. Many people Third question—What is required to range and reach of High Country with special issues produced on occasion. The have asked me over the years about be a member of the President’s Circle? August 2012 special issue (our first ever, but on-line only) resulted in a number the President’s Circle. What is it? Who To be in the PC requires a donation of (mostly on-line) responses, mostly from seasonal staffers who appreciated the can join? What is required to become of at least $1000.00 in the first three issue about photography and writing, treating it as a sort of “yearbook” of their a member? What incentives do Presi- months of the calendar year. Many of summer at the Ranch. We’re glad it was so well received and are already in the dent’s Circle members get? It is not our PC donors give more than the mini- planning stages for a similar issue this summer. an “invitation only” group. As with mum. But as you can see, having 40 or everything in the PSA, we try to keep 50 PC members really moves the needle • We have been overwhelmed, though, by the number of responses to the special everything as open and transparent as as far as filling up our checkbook early issue on conservation at the Ranch – and to the enthusiastic reception it received. possible—but with all of these ques- in the year. Our hope is to some day As you might expect, an issue of that size and scope required an extraordinary tions I think it is time we responded (soon!) have enough members of the effort by our volunteers led by Mary Stuever, but the reaction of our members has here in my column to let everybody President’s Circle so that it completely persuaded us that we need to do more of this sort of thing, and we are already in “in” on the President’s Circle. funds all operating expenses of the the planning stages for doing so. Ideas/suggestions are welcomed. First question—Why? The PSA gets PSA. Doing so would then allow us to most of its donations in the last month assure our members that every penny • We realized after going to press that not all of the photo credits for images of of the year. The 19.73 Club has helped, they donate in the Annual Fund goes the Annual Meeting and Reunion in Tulsa were included in the December issue. but our income stream is still skewed to directly into support for the Ranch, Our apologies – and our thanks – to Robert Dorsey (cover photo), and to David late in the year. Our expenses, how- with none needed for administrative Phillips, Robert Dorsey, and Douglas Fasching (photos used in the article) who ever, are fairly steady—and historically, expenses of any sort. provided them to us. They greatly enhanced the story, and provided our member- the PSA was forced to take out short- Last question—What incentives do ship a better understanding of the scope of the generosity of Waite and Genevieve term loans to get us through the first PC members get? Most of all they get Phillips.

Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 4 from the prez from the editor 5 BULLETIN BOARD Upcoming PSA® Events

PSA Florida Reunion – February 2, 2013, 10:00am to 4:00pm Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, near Gainesville, FL Contact: Randall MacDonald at [email protected]

Coral Reef Sailing Adventure – February 17-23, 2013 Florida Sea Base

PSA Madison Reunion – March 8-9, 2013 Madison, WI Contact: Cathy Hubbard at [email protected]

PSA Board and Committee Meeting Weekend – April 12-14, 2013 Contact: Randy Saunders at [email protected]

Spring Midwest Reunion – April 27, 2013 Sam and Charlene Craig’s home – St. Louis County, MO Contact: [email protected]

PSA Celebration Trek at Philmont – July 13-19, 2013 Philmont Scout Ranch

PSA Annual Reunion – July 14-20, 2013

PSA Autumn Adventure Trek – October 13-18, 2013 Philmont Scout Ranch Contact: Steve and Cynthia Truemper at [email protected]

Under the Zia: Out and About in New Mexico

February 1-3 and 8-10. Red River. Enchanted Circle Challenge – an 83 mile scenic drive with prizes for best photographs. 877-885-3885.

February 1-3. Abiquiu. Walking the Sacred Way – a spiritual retreat at Ghost Ranch. www.ghostranch.org/walking-the-sacred-way/. 505-685-4333

February 7-11. Red River. Evenings. Mardi Gras in the Mountains – daily parades, live music, Cajun cookin’. 800-754-1708.

February 8-9. Angel Fire. 9AM – 4PM. Angel Fire Shovel Race Championships. 800- 633-7463.

February 9. Eagle Nest. 7AM-2PM. Eagle Nest Lake State Park Ice Fishing Tourna- Dawn painting “en plein air” outside of ment. 575-377-6784. Gunnison, CO. Photo by Jonathan Houck.

6 bulletin board Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 go green 7 New Year’s 2012 celebration at Philmont

As 2012 came to a close, Philstaff, past festivities. There were board games, and present, gathered at Philmont puzzles, ping pong, a chess tourna- to celebrate New Year’s Day. About ment, and TVs showing the New Year’s 50 people, mostly local Philstaff and Eve programs from Times Square. Tim their families, shared dinner at the O’Neill won the annual pool tourna- PTC Dining Hall on New Year’s Eve. ment. There was also a spread of snack There were a few that ventured in from foods for everyone to munch on. Over afar. Steve and Kris Matthews and 50 people armed with noise-makers their boys; Bruce Leinweber and his were on hand to count down the end of daughter; Joyce Newsome and her son; 2012 and the beginning of 2013. Special and Gene Schnell came out to Philmont thanks to Owen and Julia McCulloch to ring in the New Year at the Ranch. for organizing the activities. Mark Anderson gave a Ranch update New Year’s Day was cold. The following dinner. thermometer did not even warm up The Silver Sage Staff Activity Center to 30 degrees as low clouds and ice was the scene for the New Year’s Eve dominated the mountains. The PSA Philmont’s professional staff and families serve New Year’s Eve dinner to guests.

provided made-to-order omelets for (we suspect because the holiday fell breakfast. Our newest omelet cook, in the middle of the week, making future Philstaffer Colleen McCulloch travel a challenge), 2013 was rung in (age 11), prepared delicious plates for at Philmont with just as much spirit hungry folks with her “smiley face” as any other year. It’s not too early to utensils. Following breakfast, there was make your plans to come to Philmont a 5K run/walk, organized by Kirsten for New Year’s 2014. Anderson Loar. About 20 people participated, which helped put a lot of resolutions on the right foot. John Celley and Tristan Loar won the race. There were three dogs in the run, as well as two 15-month old boys riding in a stroller. Afterward, there were hot drinks on hand to warm everyone up. From there, people participated in different activities for the rest of New Year’s Day: skiing, hiking to Lovers Leap, watching football on TV, and just relaxing and taking naps. Even though Future Philstaffer Colleen McCulloch helps the Dense fog and bitter cold greeted Philmont on New Year’s Day 2013. this New Year’s gathering was smaller PSA make omelets on New Year’s Day. .

Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 8 new year’s celebration new year’s celebration 9 psa® news Regional Reunions Unusual events on 2012 Canoe Voyage PSA/SAA North Country Rendezvous On March 8 and 9, PSA and Sommers Alumni Association (SAA) members are invited to a reunion in Madison, WI for a weekend of music, laughter and fellowship. Friday, March 8, Tom Munch is giving a house concert at the home of Cathy Hub- bard in Middleton, WI. There will be new and old music all night long; snacks will be provided. Saturday morning, there will be plenty of activity options: Canoecopia is an out- door exposition and a gear enthusiast’s dream. There are exhibits and lectures to meet any outdoor interests. You can find information on this very fun event at Canoecopia. com. The NPR radio show “Whad ya Know” (not much, you?) is recording that morn- ing and tickets can be purchased at notmuch.com for $10.00 each. Saturday evening will be a dinner with both PSA and SAA former staffers at Quaker Steak and Lube in Middleton, WI. We would love to have you join us for the break from winter! Please keep your eye on the PSA web site for details as they develop, and please contact Cathy Hubbard at [email protected] or 608-836-6672 or 608-770-0903 with ques- tions and to register. There is no cost to the event, but donations for Tom’s concert are appreciated, and you will be responsible for the cost of your dinner on Saturday night. Alumni from Philmont and Sommers Canoe Base pose for a group photo prior to their voyage.

Spring 2013 Midwest Reunion by Lee Huckstep Charles L. Sommers Wilderness Canoe Base. This route is about 90 miles and Save the date and plan to attend! Come prepared to see old friends, meet new Unusual events – encounters with is mostly in the Quetico Provincial Park ones, and share your love of Philmont. Bring your whole family. PSA Executive wolves, being checked by a Canadian of Ontario; only the last few miles are Director, Randy Saunders, will be in attendance with news from the Ranch and game warden, being intercepted by the in the Boundary Waters of the United prizes. We’ll get started around 4:00pm and continue until we’re done talking and US Border Patrol, and perfect weather States. singing. – were hallmarks of the fourth Canoe The Ely-Atikokan route is not often Voyage August 22 to 31, 2012, spon- When: Saturday, April 27, 2013. sored by the Exchange Program of the Philmont Staff Association, Northern Where: Sam and Charlene Craig’s home in St. Louis County near Creve Coeur Tier’s Sommers Alumni Association Park at 13135 Greenbough Dr., St. Louis, Mo 63146. (SAA) and Florida’s Sea Base Alumni Food: Meat (brats, hot dogs, and hamburgers), buns, and tableware provided. and Friends Association (SBAFA). Cost is $5.00 Single Person/$10 Family. In addition to the unusual events, the Voyage itinerary is noteworthy: the Please bring an appetizer, snack, side dish, or dessert along with lawn chairs, Voyageurs paddled from Atikokan, photos, stories, a camera, and any musical instrument that you can play. Accom- Ontario, the location of the Northern modations are available for overnight guests. Tier’s Donald L. Rogert Base to Ely, Voyageurs paddling between portages. Contact Sam Craig at (314) 398-3891 or [email protected] to RSVP or to MN, the location of the Northern Tier’s get accommodation info.

Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 10 psa news Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 psa news 11 partment: they enjoyed cinnamon rolls, brownies and cornbread. Both crews experienced the best weather in the history of the exchange program. Canoeing conditions were idyllic. Mike Lewis, Crew 1, stated that “the most enjoyable part of the Voyage was the beauty of the remote wilderness and that, even though this experience was challenging, it was worth the time and physical effort to make it a suc- cess.” Crew 1 participants were Kimberly Bielawski, Bryan Craft, Daniel Hippe, Adam Lewis, Michael Lewis, Randy Saunders and Charlie Saunders. Their interpreter was Brian Bittner. Crew 2 participants were Alex Voyageurs taking a refreshing dip into Louisa Falls. Nepple, Rick Touchette, Doug Latimer, paddled because of the logistical dif- has numerous wolves, they are nor- Lee Huckstep, Randy Howerton, Al Former Ranger Adam Lewis catches dinner. ficulties in shuttling people from Ely mally heard – at night, howling from a and Mary Person. Their Interpreter was to Atikokan. These difficulties were distance – and seldom seen. For Crew Colin Taylor. and the Sommers base – not known as resolved by the Northern Tier staff pro- 2 Voyageurs, this was the highlight of The next Canoe Voyage will be in a hotbed of illegal immigration -- Crew viding shuttle service to the Voyageurs their Voyage. They also encountered a 2015. 2 was stopped by a US Forest Ser- at no cost. moose in the wild. vice boat carrying US Border Patrol As for the unusual events, Crew Crew 2 was also treated to a rare agents. The Voyageurs were required 2 sighted wild timber wolves on two visit by a Quetico Park game warden to produce their passports, which separate occasions. While the Quetico and “canoe technician” (The guy who required emptying packs in a canoe in paddles the game warden through the the middle of a lake. The Voyageur’s park.) The Quetico game wardens are passport numbers were collected, to be seldom seen. However, on a late after- reported to passport control in Ely. Any noon on Lake Agnes, the Quetico game Voyageurs who did not later check-in at warden and canoe technician entered passport control in Ely have likely been the crew’s campsite, inspected fishing arrested by now. licenses, got assurances that barbed Crew 1 did well in the fishing hooks were being crimped (barbless department. Late August fishing is nor- hooks are required in the Quetico), mally slow, but they did well enough to gave a little fishing advice and then left. supplement three evening meals with Crew 1 was not to be left out of the This wolf is posing for the camera as the crew smallmouth bass and northern pike. Not exactly a hot tub, but Doug Latimer (left) is unusual events: between the US border paddles by. Crew 1 also did well in the baking de- relaxing in the falls.

12 psa news Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 psa news 13 Philmont will provide free tent Remember, you are encouraged to 2013 PSA Celebration Trek accommodations the night of July 12. bring your Trek-eligible family mem- Meals on July 12 or breakfast on July 13 bers to join the celebration. Trek-eligible Trekkers have bragging rights to hav- must be reserved and purchased in ad- family members include your spouse, ing trekked on the 50th Anniversary of vance. (Details concerning meal pricing child or step child, sibling, parent, Philmont. and reservations will be made available grandparent, grandchild, niece, neph- The cost is $450 per person and you closer to the Trek date.) The remainder ew or in-law of a PSA member who can register by sending your check to of your meals are included in your fee. meet eligibility requirements above. the PSA, 17 Deer Run Road, Cimarron, As always, your crew will be free to Register now – many persons have NM 87714, or you can register on-line design its own itinerary, subject to the already registered. For further informa- at www.philstaff.com. If you register by PSA’s itinerary planning guidelines. tion contact: mail, please include a slip of paper with By registering early, you can form your Doug Latimer at latimerdk@veri- the names, ages and gender of your eli- own crew or join the crew you want-- zon.net gible family members (see below), and before it fills up – and be a part of the Chris Manheim at chris@manheim- your phone number, e-mail address itinerary planning fun. solutions.com and mailing address. The information The Trek eligibility requirements are Lee Huckstep at lee.huckstep@kbr. about ages and gender helps us identify as follows: com by Lee Huckstep with Doug Latimer Youth Protection and tenting issues Cancellation policy: (1) Cancella- and Chris Manheim early-on. (1) Be a member of the PSA or Trek- tion prior to the registration deadline of We have 102 Trekker slots to fill (75 eligible family member, June 1, 2013 will receive a full refund. You’ll want to trek at Philmont in 2013 slots for 75 years of Philmont, 27 slots (2) Cancellation after the registration to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of for 27 years of PSA Treks) and while (2) Be a member of the BSA, deadline will not receive a refund. Philmont and the 40th Anniversary this may sound like a lot of slots, we ex- Monies paid can be used for another of your Philmont Staff Association. pect to fill them all. Don’t dawdle and (3) Have a completed Philmont medical PSA or Exchange Program event prior Because of these outstanding reasons wait, because your slot will be sold and form, to the end of 2013 or can be contributed to celebrate, we have chosen to call the you will be left at the Welcome Center to the Annual Fund. (3) In exceptional 2013 PSA Trek, July 13 to July 20, the as your friends head to the bus drop-off (4) Be 14 years old OR completed 8th cases, the Executive Director AND Vice “Celebration Trek.” points. grade and be at least 13 years of age President for Service can authorize re- You need to be a part of the Celebra- The basic Trek information is as fol- prior to participation. funds for cancellation after the registra- tion Trek because: lows: tion deadline (5) Be in good physical condition. 1. You will earn the special Philmont 1. Spend the night of Friday, July 12 in 75th Anniversary Arrowhead. (See the Philmont area. cover photo.) 2. Report to the Welcome Center at 8 Thinking of Bringing the Family to PTC? 2. You will earn the PSA award patch a.m. on Saturday, July 13. for the Celebration Trek. (See photo ac- 3. Hit the trail on Sunday, July 14. companying this story.) 4. Come off the trail on Friday morn- The scope of family programs (all included in every pro- 3. You will get to have fun with old ing, July 19. gram at PTC, including the PSA reunion) is impressive. friends and make new friends. 5. Attend the PSA Annual Meeting Check it out at: http://www.philmontscoutranch.org/ 4. You will get bragging rights to Friday afternoon, July 19. filestore/philmont/pdf/PTCFamily.pdf having Trekked on the 75th Anniver- 6. Depart Philmont Saturday, July 20. sary, the way some of our Celebration

Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 14 psa news psa news 15 Annual Giving again exceeds goal 19.73 Club Matthew and Jennifer Painter Robert Birkby Stephen Anthony Doug Palmer Nelson Block Watching the PSA website in the last week of a calendar year has become a specta- Raymond Bartlett Troy Phillips Terry Bohlen tor sport as a pattern of last-minute on-line giving has emerged. In the final few Raymond Batchelor Gina Rezner Cortland Bolles weeks of the year, the website posts daily reports on progress toward the year’s David Berry Jennifer Rigdon-Teter George Boyett fundraising goal. Watching the number of gifts and the amount given climb to- Jason Boyle Jay Rivara Amy Boyle ward – and, so far in every year, exceed – the annual goal has provided entertain- Eric Carlson Mark Rom Joseph Bradley Cary Coglianese Laura Rosseisen Richard Brammer ment for many. Robert Cooney Tim Rosseisen Rice Brewer Despite reports from various sources that charitable giving in the United States Fred Cribbett Keith Rucker Bill Brier appears to have declined in 2012, the friends of Philmont once again exceeded the Raymond Czech Jim Ryffel Charles Brown fundraising goals required to maintain the high quality of operations which have James DeLair Tom Sadlo Douglas Brown come to characterize the association. In 2012, the PSA received $120,709 from 434 Matthew Dukeman Randy Saunders Gary Brunsman Dana Edwards Gary Scott Sarah Burgess individual donors – numbers which do not include gifts to the Campaign4Phil- Douglas Fasching William Shriver David Caffey mont, the PSA’s current capital campaign. Many donors gave to both. Benjamin Feril Sam Sibley John Calcaterra Annual giving to the PSA comes from three primary sources: the President’s Kevin Frederick Chrystene Speed Scott Calkins Circle (in the first quarter of the year); the Annual Fund (in the second half of Allan Gibbs Rod Stipe Brad Cannon the year, but also including the year-round 19.73 Club); and other miscellaneous Jan Gimar Scott and Denice Toney Thomas Cantarine Thomas Giugni Michael Waggoner James Cash sources (unsolicited gifts, individual projects such as auctions and raffles, etc.). Bill Grogg Bob Walton William Cass The President’s Circle is the subject of this issue’s “From the President” column Scott Hall Dan Westbrook Nancy Chazotte (see page 4) and a brief explanation of the 19.73 Club can be found on page 19. Zachary Hanks Phil Winegardner Michael Christopher The PSA did not conduct an auction or raffle this year. The goal for the Presi- Alan Hart Mark Wray John and Janice Clark dent’s Circle was $42,000 and it raised $48,197. The goal for the Annual Fund was Carl Hart Stephen Zimmer Thomas Clement Ryan Hawk David Combs $72,000 and it raised $72,512. A total of 78 people are now members of the 19.73 Steven Hentzelman Annual Fund Donors Keith Cooke Club, a program which continues to show growth year over year. Benjamin Heyser Nathan Abele Thomas Cooper The total annual giving goal for the PSA in 2012 was $114,000. We raised a Aaron Higby Vincent Accardi John Copley combined total of $120,709. Vice-President for Development John Murphy, and the Clyde Keller Steve Aguirre Thomas Coughlin members of his development team, went on-line to thank all those who support Joe Leisz Michele Allen Sid Covington Stacey Locke Mark Anderson Deborah Cowden the PSA in any way they can. Philmont and the Philmont staff are better because Chris Manheim Alexander Andrus James Crawford of the work supported by PSA annual giving. Eric Manneschmidt Jeff Ash Robert Cylkowski Christopher Manning John Bacon Mark Daly President’s Circle Carolene Huguenin Chris Rautman Larry Marcy, Sr. Vickie Bakken Hal Davis Dick Austin William and Jackie Lockwood Dave Romack Larry Marcy, II Clarence Baldwin Kenneth Davis Gregory Ayers James Lynch Stephen Shea Jason and Julie Mascitti Eddie Baldwin Bruce Day George Damewood Daniel Miller Russell Smart William Matthews Douglas Barndt Robert Dealaman Bruce Davis James Mills Rowland Smith Paul May Tim Barnes Bryan Delaney Scott Engle Bob Monaghan John Thomas William McCleery David Bates Sean Devlin Patrick English John Murphy Scott and Denice Toney John McDonald Robert Baumann Douglas DeWitt Keith and Lois Jean Gallaway Tom O’Brien Scott Tritt William McWhiney Paul Beames Glen Dickens Barry Gossett Scott Ontjes Waite and Genevieve David Meyer Scott Begin Mark Dierker Paul and Mary Jane Harvey John Orrison Phillips Foundation Bob Monaghan Justin Berger Rod Dippel Jim Heath Lazar Palnick Debra Wallace Richard Munger Rey Bergquist Dennis DuBois Mark Holcomb Edward Pease John Wiebke Richard Newton Charles Berlin David Ebrite Lee Huckstep Peter Pharr Grant Williard Kristi Noble David Bert Jay Eidson

Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 16 psa news psa news 17 Michael Englert Steven Hickle Larry McCollough Douglas Roberts David Shaver Dean Tooley Julia Erbacher Warren Higgins Robert McDermott Thomas Roberts Edward Shea Gerald Travers Harry Evans Kent Hills Greg McEwen Doug Robinson James Shiner Travis Traylor John Ewanowski Robert Hodges Peter McGinn Erika Robinson Albert Silldorff Robert Trenga James Fleming Steve Hoffer Steve McInnis Gary Robinson Ronnie Sims Russell Tucker Lowell Flickinger Kevin Hogan John McIntyre Ross Robinson Terry Slade Alex Tyms Jed Fogle Kevin Honnell Michael McKay Gerald Roche Christopher Smejkal John Van Dreese Benjamin Foote Janet Horwath Thomas McKenzie Charles “Rock” Rohrbacher Harrison Smith Mark Vander Meer Adam Fromm Blaine Houmes Bill McKown John Rorke Michael Smith Gerald Voros David Fromm Catherine Hubbard Danny McMurphy Keel Ross Warren Smith Douglas Wahl William Fromm Joey Hudson David McNeel Bruce Russell Bryan Spencer Aaron Walker Michael Funke Scott Johns Richard McNeel Bill Ryan Darlene Sprague Billy Warf Mark Furey Preston Johnson Russell Meals Jason Rziha Katie Stallman Ryan Washam Matthew Galchus Lee Johnson Bradley Merkling Mark Sagers William Stansfield George Waters Christopher Gale Larry Jones Wally Meyer Robert Saint Kevin and Nancy Stickelman Levi Webb Joseph Gallagher Douglas Kaderabek George Michaels Lou Salute Victor Stiebel Martin Weir Barbara Garcia Walter Kailer John Mills Ed Sanchez William Stiles Oscar Wells William Garrison Paul Kapfer Doug Minnich Len Scheel Mark Stinnett Richard Wertz Gerald Gettelfinger Philip Keating Catherine Mirick John Scherer Keith Stivers John Weyer John Gibbins Alan Kelso Andy Moore Ed Schlichtenmyer James Stolle Bruce Whitaker Dennis Gilpin Anthony Kiel John Moore Eugene Schnell Becky Stone Bruce Whittle Jim Glover William Kiel David Moskal Daniel Schoenekase John Sucher Kenneth Wible Andrew Goesl Ray Kinerd Roger Moyer Thomas Schonberger Bob Sudomir Robert Wicker David Graham Bradley Kinsman Robert Myers David Schweer Charles Sullivan Warren Williams James Gregg Gene Klingler Alex Nepple Mark Schweer Gerard Sullivan Mike Willoughby Fred Gregory Steve Kostka David and Terri Kenneth Schwenke Shannon Szymczak Wayne Woods Michael Griffin Kurt Kowalski Norwood George Segelken Carlos Tanner Philip Yunker William Griffin Robert LaFortune Shelley Taylor Odille Rusty Seifert Matthew Terribile Gerald Grossman Bruce Lanier Emile Oestriecher Kathleen Seitz Brigitte Therivel Robert Grove Calvin Lassere Thomas Olson David Setzer William Thomison William Gundlach, III Doug Latimer Kevin O’Neil Gary Hale Jessica Latimer Dan Ownby Join the 19.73 Club and help the PSA Help Philmont Chad Hall Thomas Latimer Ashley Pagnotta Steve Hall Thomas Ledbetter Irene Palnick An easy way to help the PSA’s Annual PSA of nearly $240 – a significant dona- Robert Hallahan Mark Leinmiller Reagan Parr Fund – and thereby help Philmont – is tion. Edward Hamner David Lentz Richard Penland through the automatic giving program Payments continue until such time Michael Hanifin David Liebmann Jack Person Eric Hansen Matt Lindsey David Pfahler known as the 19.73 Club. It’s simple as the Member notifies either the PSA or Andrew Hardin Keith Lingle David Phillips – and it is really making a the credit card to discon- William Harken David Lown Jennifer Philp difference. tinue further donations. Barry and Vicky Harper Jane Lynch Charles Pint Members of the Club In less than three years, Jack Harris William MacDonald Alex Posluszny authorize a monthly charge the 19.73 Club has grown Jane Harris Jim MacGillivray Clay Pruitt Thomas Hedderick Patrick Malloy Gerry Quinlan against their Visa or MasterCard in to 78 Members. Please consider joining Warren Heffron Daniel Marks Marcus Rautman the amount of $19.73. Each month, them. Further information is available Rogge Heflin Doug Marks Mark Ray the Member’s credit card makes an from Executive Director Randy Saunders Alan Hejnal Ronald Marr David Reasoner automatic payment to the PSA in that at: [email protected] or by call- Kirk Henderson Steve and Kris Matthews Marguerite Redford amount. The result: for pennies a day, a ing the PSA office at 575-376-1138. Thank Eric Henry Fritz Maxwell Douglas Rennels Richard Hensley Michael Mazzocco Lee Ritter Member can make an annual gift to the you!

Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 18 psa news psa news 19 40th Anniversary week-long PSA Reunion ing unique New Mexico locations, chal- this event, contact Reunion Chairman lenging themselves on the high ropes Bryan Delaney at bryan_delaney@ 2013 is a very special year for Philmont the PSA’s founders will be among our COPE course, and much more! hotmail.com – or if you would just like Scout Ranch. The 75th anniversary of gathering, too. More information will be forthcom- to learn more about the week and how ’ 1938 gift of his New Since our reunion will be at PTC, ing to you about the 2013 PSA Reunion you can be part of it, contact the PSA Mexico ranch to the Boy Scouts of this will be an ideal venue for your conference in the April issue of High office at: [email protected]. America will be celebrated by campers family vacation. There are programs for Country and on our website, www. We look forward to seeing you at and participants attending Philmont children and spouses, as well as family philstaff.com. If you would like to HOmE in July! and the Philmont Training Center gatherings in the evenings. Tent cities volunteer to help plan and organize throughout the year. at PTC accommodate you and your 2013 is also a special year for the family. Tents are large two-person wall Philmont Staff Association. Founded in tents on wooden or concrete floors with How to Register for the PSA Reunion @ PTC 1973 “at the confluence of the Rayado electricity, lighting, a wardrobe, and PTC is very excited to host the PSA Reunion from July 14-20, 2013. To register and the Agua Fria”, the PSA turns 40 two twin beds. Each tent city has rest- online for this event: years old this year. This is also an occa- rooms and hot showers. There is also a sion to celebrate, and that celebration Laundromat on the PTC campus. Meals 1) Go to www.MyScouting.org. will occur at Philmont Scout Ranch. are provided at the PTC Dining Hall. 2) If you do not have a “MyScouting” account, follow the steps to create one by The PSA Reunion will be a week-long Family members from infants to first clicking the button on the right hand side labeled “Create an Account”. conference at the Philmont Training grandparents can come and enjoy 3) Log on to www.MyScouting.org Center, July 14-20, 2013. Mark these themselves: dates on your calendar and make plans • Family members will participate in 4) On the left hand menu, click the “Event Registration” tab. to attend this special event. programs catered to their specific age 5) Click under event registrations “Philmont Training Center.” Similar to the past two PSA week- groups. 6) Click “Register for the 2013 Philmont Training Center Courses.” long conferences (2005 and 2010), • While they have fun during the day, 7) Carefully read the instructions on the event registration page and the click the the 2013 reunion week will include you will still get to spend mealtimes “register now” button. opportunities to gather and fellowship and participate in evening activities as 8) On the next page, in the required field “Council Name”, select - NATIONAL as former Philstaff, make new friends, a family. COUNCIL 999 **(This will not register you as a member of the Boy Scouts of share old memories, and make some • There is a full service nursery America)** new ones. Our home for the week will available for infants to 2 year-olds, and 9) Then in the required field “Current/Primary Scouting Position”, select - be the Philmont Training Center, with the Small Fry Center is dedicated to “Other” from the drop-down menu. In the space to the right, enter - “PSA” its first class facilities and outstanding providing excellent care for 3 to 5 year- 10) Follow the prompts and complete your registration. programs. The Colfax Colloquium re- olds. 11) Be sure to select Week 6: Philmont Staff Association Reunion (July 14-20) turns to the reunion, featuring speakers • Depending upon age, the ac- 12) You will have to submit a $50 deposit to confirm your registration. All confer- covering topics from Southwest history tivities range from hiking, archery and ence and family fees are due 30 days prior to the start of the reunion. Please do and culture to outdoor skills and crafts- rifle, pony rides, horseback riding, not hesitate to contact the Philmont Training Center at any time for assistance manship. In addition to these seminars, games, sports, and overnighters in the there will be service projects, hikes, backcountry! registering for the PSA reunion. You can reach the PTC office at TrainingCenter@ Philmont art and literature, and much • Children 14—18 can choose to go on PhilmontScoutRanch.org or (575) 376-2281. more. The PSA’s Annual Meeting and a Mountain Trek, where they spend a Silver Sage awards will highlight the week on the trail and get to experience Conference Fees (Fees include materials, meals and lodging): agenda on Friday, July 19. Be sure to be the backcountry. Conference attendee: $495 Ages 14-20: $295 at Philmont for the decade-era photos • Spouses get to fill their week with Spouse or other adult: $350 Ages 6-13: $195 on the Villa lawn (on Friday). Some of activities like hiking, handicrafts, tour- Mountain Trek: $380 Ages 5 and under: $95

20 psa annual meeting/reunion Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 psa annual meeting/reunion 21 ptc news Buy a Buckle: Support Staff Scholarships Spanish Wood Badge 2012 2013 marks the 75th an- In late July 2012, the Philmont Train- staff spent months of planning and niversary of Philmont ing Center had the unique opportunity preparing, which included translating to host the BSA’s first ever Spanish the current Wood Badge syllabus into Scout Ranch and the Wood Badge course, facilitated by Spanish. 40th anniversary of the the National Council. The course was The majority of the training experi- Philmont Staff Associa- designed to illustrate to volunteers and ence was spent at PTC with an over- tion. So, of course, the professionals from across the country nighter in the Trail of Deer area. One of PSA will be selling lim- how similar courses could be executed the most interesting parts of the week ited edition belt buckles in their local areas. Additionally, the for Philmont was the chance to do a full to commemorate the oc- PTC Spanish Wood Badge course also shakedown for the participants where casion – and the proceeds provided Scouters from Costa Rica rangers, using a translator, taught the from the sales will go to and Mexico the chance to take part in participants to camp Philmont style. In the seasonal staff scholar- the most advanced training available addition, one of PTC’s staff members, ship fund. Orders may be placed online at www.philstaff.com or to Scout leaders in the Boy Scouts of Eddie Toro from Puerto Rico, learned by calling the PSA office at 575-376-1138. Buckles will be shipped America. 28 participants and 15 staff the entire history to members gathered at PTC to spend a give the participants and staff a tour in beginning June 1, and will be available for purchase in the 2013 week in Scouting’s premier training their native language. calendar year ONLY. course. The Spanish Wood Badge course at Baden-Powell designed it so that PTC was truly a mountain top experi- The buckle design includes the Fish Camp cabin, at the conflu- Scouters could learn, in as practical a ence. It proved once again that Wood ence of the Rayado and the Agua Fria, where the PSA was born. way possible, the skills and methods Badge is a great force for world brother- And, with each buckle purchased, buyers will receive a coin made of Scouting. It is first and foremost, hood, for though it uses the local tradi- of the corresponding metal (pewter, bronze, two-tone) which also learning by doing. The members of tions in each country, it emphasizes the commemorates both anniversaries. Those who buy the sterling the course are formed into patrols and international principles of the Scouting silver buckle will receive a set of all three coins. these into a troop. The Wood Badge movement.

Prices are:

Pewter: $25 Bronze: $30 two-tone: $65 Sterling Silver: $675

Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 22 ptc news buy a buckle 23 2013 PSA election schedule Philmont to Again Co-Sponsor

Pursuant to the By-Laws of the ship) may contact Randy Saunders, “Casting for Recovery” Philmont Staff Association, the follow- Executive Director, at psadirector@ ing schedule has been adopted by the philstaff.com or 17 Deer Run Road, For the 4th year, Philmont Scout Ranch recreational activity with both physical Board of Directors regarding the 2013 Cimarron, NM 87714. will co-sponsor “Casting for Recovery,” and emotional benefits. election for the Association. Officers a fly fishing retreat for breast cancer •Help participants go forward and Directors for the term January 1, 2013 Philmont Staff Association Elec- survivors across New Mexico and the optimistically with new knowledge 2014, to and including December 31, tion Schedule Texas Panhandle. Other co-sponsors are and new friends. 2016, will be elected by vote of the the Express UU Bar Ranch and the NM • Provide an experience that promotes membership. • December 2012: Notice of Elections Council of Trout Unlimited. coping and problem-solving Those who wish to be considered for published in High Country and put on Dates are August 23-25, skills. a position on the Board of Directors or PSA website 2013. Participants will be •Focus on wellness and em- as an officer of the Association, or who • April 13, 2013: Nominating Com- selected at random from powerment rather than illness wish to recommend others for these mittee reports to the president at the the eligible applications and helplessness. positions may contact Mark Leinmiller, board of directors meeting received. There is no charge If you know someone Nominating Committee Chairman, at • June 2013: Candidate biographies to participants. who would benefit from [email protected], or by mail published in June High Country The program began in 1996 in Man- this program, or if you are interested at Philmont Staff Association, 17 Deer • July 15, 2013: Deadline for any ad- chester, Vermont and has since spread in providing financial support, go to Run Road, Cimarron, New Mexico ditional nominations from the general across the United States. It was found- www.castingforrecovery.org. Please 87714. membership to be received at the PSA ed on the principles that the natural indicate that you are interested in the Recommendations must be received office world is a healing force and that cancer “New Mexico Retreat.” Or you may by the Nominating Committee not • July 20, 2013: Ballots mailed to survivors deserve one weekend – free call Janice Clark at (575) 376-2014 for later than March 15 in order to receive membership of charge and free of the stresses from further information. consideration. Persons who would like • August 20, 2013: Ballots tallied by medical treatment, home, or workplace to serve on PSA committees (which are Executive Director and two members – to experience something new and appointed by the President and which appointed by the President. challenging while enjoying beautiful do not require election by the member- surroundings within an intimate, safe, and nurturing structure. Fly fishing techniques provide a gentle exercise for joints and soft tissue mobility, impor- tant to rehabilitation following surgery. The program, which will be held at the Express UU Bar Ranch will: • Be a 2 ½ day retreat for 14 women, at no cost to the participants. • Provide fly-fishing instruction and breast cancer information in a setting that helps lesson isolation, providing

Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 24 psa elections casting for recovery 25 philmont history

own place” – one of the new duplexes grease was ready for any fresh catch. Fifty Years Ago: The Volunteer Training overlooking the pond. Jeri worked with 10-13 year-old Gayle’s duties that summer includ- girls, then known as “Muchachas.” Center in the Summer of 1963 ed serving as liaison to the Wood Badge Their days were full and active: horse- courses, supporting the Wood Badge back riding, archery, picnics, crafts, staffs and ensuring that they had what- movies at night, and square dancing. ever they needed, when they needed it. Between activities, she would read in One of the bonuses from that position the Gazebo, also a favorite space for the was being routinely invited to the Phillips family and their friends when Wood Badge feasts at the end of each they visited. And, like generations of course – a special treat for him and Jeri Philstaff then and since, Gayle and Jeri since the menus at VTC were the same would take days off and head for the every week. He would later take Wood high country. Gayle had been a ranger, Badge (at Zastrow) himself and serve something that never really leaves once on Wood Badge staffs. His duties also instilled, and Jeri was a good sport, included taking VTC participants and learning quickly about “roughing it.” families who wanted to try their hands VTC staff free time would be at trout fishing. They would take spent in Springer at the movie theater, one of the Greenbriar wagons VERY visiting the various ghost towns in early in the morning so they could be northeast New Mexico, or browsing back before the first morning sessions through Mrs. Ward’s “JUNK & STUFF” 1963 VTC Adult Staff - left to right - Mrs. Pucket - Office, Mrs. Vann - Nurse, Robert Vann - Driver, started. While his charges were fishing, store in Cimarron. Between sessions, Lula May Love - Office Manager, Otto Love - Mayor of Tent City, Opal Bowden - Ladies Program, Gayle prepared the fire so that the hot all hands pitched in to prepare for the Gene Bowden - Director, Audrey Jordan - Ladies Program, Max Jordan - Program Director, Annie Webb - Housekeeping, Bud Webb - Maintenance, Jeri Reams - Girls 10/13 Program, Gayle Reams - Program, Mary Watson - Small Fry, Head of Food Services

The summer of 1963 saw Gayle and Director. Jeri Reams employed on the adult staff They were married in Lubbock, of VTC (the Volunteer Training Center, Texas three days before the start of the now known as PTC) at Philmont. summer 1963 season and were intro- Gayle had worked in the camping duced to each new group that summer, department for several years, and be- simply as “the newlyweds.” Their first fore the season started, he would lead month of married life, they lived in the Mountain Men groups until the regular former Villa maid’s quarters, known as group leaders arrived. In the year prior “the loft,” adjacent to one of the confer- to the 1963 season, Gayle wrote Dick ence rooms (the Villa was then the site Potter inquiring about the possibility of of all training sessions at VTC). Many working at VTC and bringing his wife- of the training sessions began and to-be. Jeri was hired to be the leader ended with singing or games, or both, of the girls groups, ages 10-13. Gayle so privacy and quiet was a rare com- was hired as the Assistant Program modity. Later, they moved to “their Gayle Reams helps a crew with shakedown on the Villa lawn in 1962

26 philmont history Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 philmont history 27 next group’s arrival. The women and Camp” using supplies from the Ranch done. matter worse, my horse broke loose. It girls helped clean and prepare housing and Trading Post at the back of the Jan. 7. – Started with 4 men for Fort was so dark I could not find him. At quarters; the men and boys would do property, housing some of the outdoor Union to get commissary stores. We last morning came but not the horse. the same for the tent cities and the con- program groups there. And why the took 15 pack mules. Snow is from 3 By diligent searching and carrying my ference rooms. Together they would back of the property? Aside from the to 20 feet deep. Dug a portion of our saddle, I found the horse at about 11 tackle any other projects that were obvious reason that a Scout Camp on road. Advanced 20 miles through deep o’clock. At that time, I mounted and necessary that week in order to make the Villa lawn would have been decid- ravines where in places only the tops of went on. Found my road. Arrived at the VTC perfect for the next guests, and edly out of character, the Villa lawns the pine trees are to be seen. Camped Rayado. once the chores were done, there would in those days were all irrigated in the at night. Built a large fire and got be something special. Martha Lee’s traditional 19th Century way – by close to it and then tried to sleep but I Feb. 19. – At Kit Carson’s house last buffet in Trinidad was a favorite, as flooding from irrigation ditches on a thought I would freeze. Would lie 15 night. He related to me numerous were Fort Union, Santa Fe, and Ernest regular basis. or 20 minutes, get trembling from cold, adventures and hair breadth escapes he Thompson Seton’s home. His widow, Much has changed at the Philmont get up closer to fire, and be literally had had. He is small-sized with blue Julia Seton, would talk with Philmont Training Center over the past 50 years, burning on one side and freezing on the eyes and sandy hair, but has a heart of staff about Lobo, the famous wolf that including the transition from an all- other side of the body. Got through the the first magnitude. He is ever ready changed Seton’s thinking about con- volunteer leadership team to leadership night, burnt my clothes and blankets to sacrifice his all for a friend in need, servation, and showed them the hide comprised of BSA professionals (the trying to keep warm. Two mules died and his name is a terror to the Indians. – now a part of the Seton Memorial last volunteer director of the Volunteer from cold during the night. Last year he drove 6500 sheep over the Jan. 9. – Spent last night at Mora. mountains to California. He is now the Library at Philmont. Training Center was Unit 41 – Gene A large flouring mill is here. It is built Indian Agent for the United States in And then, as now, staff learned to Schnell, in 1985). the same as those in the United States. New Mexico. He was a hunter at Bent’s “scramble; be flexible” depending on One thing has not – the commitment Arrived Fort Union after crossing a Fort from 1883 to 1841 and later guided the needs of the moment, expected or to provide the absolute best in Scouting plain 18 miles wide and having the cold Fremont across the plains and over the otherwise. One week, the Boy Scout and Scout training for all those who north wind almost cutting through a Rocky Mountains. He told me of the session was so large that there would venture to the Villa grounds and the person. It was bad traveling.” time that Godey and he put to flight 30 not be nearly enough platform tents. Philmont Training Center. Indians who had killed some Mexicans Solution: build an entire “Boy Scout And from Bennett’s journal the fol- and stolen the two women in the camp. lowing winter: One husband escaped with the horses A Dragoon in New Mexico and found Col. Fremont’s camp, but “Feb. 17, 1854. – Started for Rayado. not before the Indians had captured Ed. Note: One-hundred sixty years ago, upon the scene without, the mountain Night came on and found me in the most of the horses which they had fol- during the winter of 1852-1853, a Com- which over-hangs us and towers almost midst of the mountains. Snow was lowed. Godey and Carson followed the pany of the US Army’s First Dragoons to the skies, is clothed in its garb of piled on piles. Still snowing and a trail, charged the Indian camp at full was stationed at Rayado to protect the white snow and dark evergreen foliage. cold wind was blowing furiously. Tied speed. The Indians naturally thought Santa Fe Trail. An account of life in the The drooping branches of these trees my horse to a tree, built a fire, and lay more men were following these two First Dragoons is captured in the personal cast a somber hue upon the rocky clefts down. At dark a large body of wolves so they fled, leaving 3 of their number journal of James A. Bennett. The selection upon which the trees are rooted. The came around and set up a dismal dead. Space doesn’t permit me to tell that follows tells the story of their ride from long dismal howl of wolves is heard. In howling. I could see their eyes glisten all that Kit told me. Returned home Rayado to Fort Union in early January, to fact, viewing winter in its stern reality in the dark. They came so near as to very sick from something I ate. requisition supplies. brings thoughts of home, friends, and snap at my horse’s heels. I suppose youthful associations to mind. Now the fire was all that kept them away -from Forts and Forays: A Dragoon in “Jan. 1, 1853. – Cold and dreary day. commences another year. It may be from me. A pleasant situation: I had New Mexico, 1850-1856, by James A. The winds whistle loudly by us. Snow my last, surrounded as I am by danger. nothing to eat; surrounded by wolves; Bennett beats against the windows. As I gaze One only knows. His Will, not mine, be bound in by snow; and to make the

Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 28 philmont history philmont history 29 ranch roundup were released in the Wheeler Peak area naday, founder of the BSA’s Hornaday in an attempt to reestablish them in an awards, helped restore the population. original habitat. Apparently it worked, In 1936 a statewide campaign was Dancing on talus because in 2003 and 2004 forty-six of mounted by Arizona Boy Scouts to save by Dave Bates which seemed oblivious to our pres- them were moved from the Wheeler bighorn sheep. ence. Leave No Trace reminds us to Peak area to other locations. Because bighorns cannot move The most recent edition of the Philmont respect wildlife by not causing them to Twenty-five more were relocated through deep snow they prefer drier Field Guide makes no mention of alter their behavior, so we elected not from the Wheeler Peak area in 2006, 53 slopes where the annual snowfall is less bighorn sheep. No Bighorns (Ovis to go any closer. She probably looked more in 2008 and 31 more in 2012. A than 60 inches. They are well adapted canadensis) had been seen on Philmont at us with disdain for our awkward few bighorns evidently wandered over to climbing steep, rocky slopes where since the late 1980s, but the Field Guide stumbling over talus and knew she had into Philmont’s Baldy country. they seek cover from predators. Young is now in error. Bighorns have again nothing to fear from our slow down- The horns of bighorn rams can lambs are often hunted by coyotes, bob- been spotted high in the Baldy coun- ward progress. weigh up to 30 pounds, from which the cats, and golden eagles. Even mature try. On September 21, 2012, my wife, In 1978 five bighorns were relocated name bighorn was derived. The sheep bighorns may fall prey to bears and Susan, took this photo of a bighorn ewe from the Pecos Wilderness to Cimarron weigh up to 300 pounds, originally mountain lions. They are considered a idly traversing talus slopes well above Canyon, but by the late 1980s they were crossing into North America over the good indicator of land health because timberline on Baldy. Mark Anderson infrequently seen. The New Mexico Bering land bridge from Siberia and they are sensitive to many human- subsequently verified that some crews Department of Game and Fish indicat- appearing in Native Americans cre- caused environmental problems. Ewes reported seeing bighorn on Philmont ed that the one remaining bighorn was ation myths. Two hundred years ago generally bear one and sometimes two last summer. moved from Cimarron Canyon to New bighorn sheep were found throughout lambs in May. We were able to get fairly close Mexico’s Manzano Mountains in 1999. the United States, Canada and northern So – on your next climb of Baldy (within about 75 feet) of this bighorn In 1968 and 1970 twenty-nine Bighorns Mexico with a population estimated at Mountain watch for bighorns. Their over two million. By 1900 their popula- agility to traverse rocky slopes will tion had plunged to several thousand. make it seem that they are dancing on Conservation efforts by William T. Hor- the talus.

Where are YOU showing your 87714 Pride?

As our readers are aware, High Country publishes occasional photos of the world travels of various Phil-gear, usually accompanied by a brief explana- tion – and a shameless promotion for you to buy Phil-stuff from the PSA. Lee Ritter and his wife Eliz- abeth recently welcomed their first daughter Sophia Caroline and wanted a great cooler to go on road trips with her. The 87714 decal on the front of the Ritter’s new cooler which they bought for road trips with their new daughter Sophia Caroline.

Share your 87714 sightings with us for future use on the website, in High Coun- try or both­! E-mail [email protected] with your sightings, and if for some inexplicable reason you don't have your 87714 sticker yet, contact the PSA A bighorn sheep on the slopes of Baldy Mountain. to purchase some at eminently reasonable prices. Shop for T-Shirts (and other photo by Susan Bates cool 87714 gear) at www.philstaff.com.

Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 30 ranch roundup 87714 pride 31 i-camp

The Land of Ten Lakes about the very remote possibility of a a show during takeoffs and landings. breach of the reservoir’s dam at night Okay, it’s not the land of ten thousand similar name in Webster, Mass. (though led Philmont managers to close the Lake Doris and Lake Aspen lakes where the Northern Tier High that body of water’s true name is Lake downstream Rocky Mountain Scout Adventure Base makes its home. It’s Chaubunagungamaug), Webster Lake Camp to overnight camping, with You are a true guru of Phil-geogra- just a land of ten lakes. But Philmont is Philmont’s largest. It’s likely the relocation of the NAYLE and other pro- phy if you still know the whereabouts still boasts a couple of jewels and a few most observed as well, as thousands grams to the new Rayado Ridge Camp of Lake Doris and Lake Aspen, since obscure backcountry bodies of water, of Scouts ride past it each summer on in the southeastern corner of the Ranch. they’ve somehow disappeared from albeit some only occasionally, that bus trips to or from the Cito Turn- recent Philmont GIS maps of the North at least provide sufficient subject for around. Originally constructed for Deer Lake Country. The two small lakes lie a bit this column. Welcome to the lakes of water storage for irrigation, the lake east of Miranda Camp. Lake Doris is Philmont: fulfills that same purpose today. A trail One has to climb a little higher in the northernmost and is actually on camp located about a half mile west the backcountry to reach Philmont’s Ute Creek just south of the joinder Cimarroncito Reservoir of the lake now enables a few crews to second-largest body of water. At least, of its uppermost forks. Lake Aspen actually camp there. The lake is named it’s the second-largest during summers sits alone west of the streambed a bit Largely due to the looming mass of for a previous owner, George Webster, with good runoff following winter farther south. Both can still be located adjacent Cathedral Rock and panoram- whose ranch Waite Phillips purchased snows. Deer Lake inhabits a large bowl on Google Maps and still appear on the ic vista that the two provide together, to become part of Philmont. on the eastern end of Deer Lake Mesa USGS topos – why not Philmont’s? the Cito Reservoir easily wins the above nearby Harlan Camp. A some- most-photographed lake at Philmont The Philmont Reservoir what unknown and underappreciated The Lake at Ute Meadows contest. Nestled amid beautiful pines Philmont asset, Deer Lake offers its oc- on the west and south and the tow- The seldom-visited Philmont casional campers a quiet, isolated, and Why this lake doesn’t have a real ering cliff to the north, the lake sits Reservoir serves as the primary water supremely peaceful mountain camping name is a bit of a mystery, since it lies literally at the crossroads of the Ranch. source for base camp and the training experience. in close proximity to the two afore- The only blight on its otherwise idyllic center. The lake owes its existence to mentioned named lakes in the Baldy setting is the rather drab concrete dam an old dam across the North Fork of Devil’s Wash Basin Country, but the lake at Ute Meadows and spillway on the east. Rumor has Urraca Creek directly below the Tooth Camp has no name of its own on any it that an intrepid explorer will find of Time and just west of the Stockade. We’re stretching a bit to call this map located by this author. At an a cave near the water’s edge on the That North Fork offers a difficult but a lake, but we won’t get to ten if we elevation of 9200 feet, it’s the highest northern shore. Phil-fishermen can rewarding hike from the intersection of don’t. Deer Lake’s neighbor in its own lake found on Philmont. Located on only look longingly at the pristine wa- the Schaefer’s Pass-Miner’s Park trail bowl at the other end of the mesa, the northernmost fork of Ute Creek, it’s ters – no fishing or swimming allowed, eastward to the reservoir, a two-mile Devil’s Wash Basin appears on most fed by ice-cold waters flowing directly as this is the water supply for the Vil- stretch of narrow high-walled canyon maps as an intermittent lake. But when down from the upper reaches of Baldy lage of Cimarron. that opens just before the lake’s loca- the water is there, it’s one of the most Mountain. tion. It’s a little more easily reached beautiful places at Philmont. Nestled Webster Lake by a stroll up the service road from snugly in a small basin (more like a cra- Crater Lake the Lover’s Leap Turnaround past the ter) and ringed by tall pines, its resident Not to be confused with a lake of Stockade Trail Camp. Recent concerns wild geese and ducks can put on quite It’s substantially smaller and prob-

Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 32 i-camp i-camp 33 ably a little less inspiring than the summers of good rains, one to three good reading more famous lake of the same name in lakes will appear in Hidden Valley. Al- Oregon, but Philmont’s Crater Lake is though there are usually more than one a special place for all Philfolks. Home when they do show up, we’re counting Keeping the past alive to one of Waite Phillips’ hunting lodges them as one because, well, you can’t and way station for the Phillips family always count on there being more than 40 years as a passionate student of the on their horseback journeys to their one – or any at all. In dry summers, region. Rayado Lodge (Fish Camp), the lake these “lakes” are little more than grass- But what makes Zimmer’s latest offers its own great view of the Tooth filled depressions in the meadows of book, People of the Cimarron Coun- of Time. In years past, it played a the valley floor. But when they fill with try, so special is not its scholarship prominent program role as the site of runoff water during times of moisture (though it has that, too) but its human- lumberjack logrolling for the Continen- – that’s why Hidden Valley is such a ity. As the title makes clear, this book tal Tie and Lumber Company program. favorite hike of Philmont veterans. You is about the people of the country. It just never know when you might come is a collection of more than two dozen The Lakes In Hidden Valley around a bend in the trail and happen biographical essays, many written by upon that unexpected special jewel of a Zimmer, others carefully selected from You’ll look in vain for them on any sky-blue alpine mountain lake. a historical record that goes back more Philmont or USGS map, but if we’ve than a century. The essays appear in had a good snow year and a couple of –Mark Stinnett chronological order (more or less) and those written by others have addi- FROM THE PSA BOOKSHELF tional material written by Zimmer that provide context and fill the gaps. The The number of titles in the PSA’s Philmont library continues to grow and now book is also generously illustrated with includes the following: historical photographs, some of them from private collections never or only tales From the High Country…$12 rarely seen before. A Review of Stephen Zimmer’s People The net effect of Zimmer’s care is More Tales From the High Country…$12 of the Cimarron Country a book that is not merely a collection head for the High Country…$12 of discreet biographical essays about by Warren Smith Born at the Confluence…sold out people, but a coherent, integrated biography of a place. That coherence the Other Side of the Road…$12 It’s possible, even likely, that Stephen is what makes this book a revelation carry On! The Joe Davis Story…$16 Zimmer knows the history of the Ci- even for those who think they know the marron Country better than any person i Wanna Go Back: Tales of the Philmont Rangers…$16 Cimarron Country. The familiar stories alive today. His academic and profes- of , Kit Carson, and the Life and Times of Jack L. Rhea…$17 sional credentials make a case few can Waite Phillips are all the more resonant PSA Backcountry Cookbook…$20 match: A graduate degree in history alongside the less familiar stories of from the University of New Mexico, O.P. McMains and Brownlow Wilson. To order, visit the PSA website or contact Executive Director Randy Saunders at 25 years as director of museums at Philmont staffers, or those who know [email protected]; 575-376-1138. Volume discounts available. Philmont, author of dozens of articles the more recent history of the Cimarron and at least three books, and more than Country, will delight in the affectionate

Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 34 i-camp good reading 35 profiles of “Chope” Phillips, Jiggs Por- nearly a century-and-a-half ago, and trail talk ter, Boss Sanchez, Rod Taylor, and R.W. who is also profiled in this book. Her Hampton. By including their stories, death was a reminder to many that an 1970s In Memoriam and showing us how these people are era was quickly fading away. Our links Jeff McElroy (76-81) was elected Dis- keeping the traditions of the country to the lives and the lessons the people trict Judge for the district of Taos and Brad Kinsman (47-49) and Clar- alive, Zimmer helps us see what Wil- of that era might teach us are becoming Colfax counties, New Mexico, in the ence Baldwin (47-49) advise us of liam Faulkner famously said: “The past increasingly tenuous, their voices more general election of November 6, 2012. the death of their friend and former is never dead. It’s not even past.” difficult to hear over the din of modern Contact: 15 Rova Drive, Taos, NM Philmont staffer Oscar Daniel “Dan” As this book entered the final stages life. 87571. [email protected]. Ferguson (47-52) in October of 2012. of production, one of the remarkable Thankfully, Steve Zimmer listened Clarence worked with Dan at Fish persons profiled in this book, Gretchen carefully to their voices. And now, Ron Reisinger (73-74) after Philmont Camp (aka Agua Fria Base Camp) Sammis, died at her beloved Chase thanks to People of the Cimarron married his wife Karen. They have as a guide in ’47 and again at Fish Ranch, just north of Cimarron. She Country, we have the opportunity to twin daughters Amelia and Carolyn Camp (then Rayado Base Camp) in was the last surviving descendant of hear some of the unsung heroes of this and he serves as an Area Director of ’49, when Clarence was CD and Dan Manley Chase, who founded the ranch country speak to us still. InterVarsity Christian Fellowship (with was ACD. Brad’s friendship with emphasis on international students). Dan began in the summer of 1949 Will Rogers was perhaps the best-known American humorist of the early Twen- He still enjoys downhill skiing, US and when he also worked at Rayado, but tieth Century, a friend of Waite Phillips and a visitor to Philmont. Among his foreign travel, and reading. Contact: as with many of us, they lost contact best-known aphorisms: 4347 SW Fraser Avenue, Portland, after leaving the Ranch. Then be- OR 97225. 503-314-3252. riesinger@ cause of the PSA, they reconnected · Always drink upstream from the herd. comcast.net. at a Philmont reunion and rekindled that friendship, which soon grew · If you find yourself in a hole, stop digging. 1980s to include their wives, children and · Never slap a man who is chewing tobacco. George Bach (88-93) has joined the fac- grandchildren. They visited often · Never miss a good chance to shut up. ulty of the University of New Mexico at Dan’s home in Montana, as Brad School of Law as an assistant professor and his wife traveled there regu- teaching constitutional law, employ- larly to visit his sister. His obituary ment law, evidence, federal jurisdiction, concluded: “Dan had three loves: clinic and practicum. Contact: UNM his wife Lou and family; the Scout- School of Law, MSC11-6070, 1 Univer- ing Program and what it could do sity of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM for youth; and the out-of-doors, 87131-0001. particularly Philmont Scout Ranch at Cimarron, NM, where he spent six Jonathan Houck (88-91), in the Novem- summers living and working in the ber 2012 election was elected to the po- high country.” sition of County Commissioner, District 2, in Gunnison, Colorado. Contact: 421 The is an igneous North Boulevard Street, Gunnison, CO intrusion of dacite porphyry formed 81230. 970-641-4550. jonathanhouck@ in the Tertiary period of the Cenozoic hotmail.com. era some 22-40 million years ago… today!

Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 36 good reading trail talk 37 another good campsite Rayado Ridge Training Facility

The first construction at the new Rayado Ridge Training Facility.

The “newest” backcountry camp at Philmont really isn’t new at all. The Rayado Ridge Training Facility scheduled to open for the summer of 2013 is actually being constructed on the grounds of the old NJLIC (National Junior Leader Instructor Course), on a ridge about one - half mile west of Rayado. This was the original site (circa, 1950s through 1970s, before the campsites were moved upstream PSA Life Member Doc Thompson lives in Ute Park and is a licensed Orvis adjacent to Rayado proper. guide. His piscatorial prowess is evident in the photos of the Rainbow Trout The new facility will become the home of NAYLE (National Advanced Youth and Sockeye Salmon – but High Country especially likes his tackle box. Leadership Experience), and is also slated to be the new home for Philmont’s famous Woodbadge Courses.* The camp design is utilizing several of the features that remain from the Still seeking Phil-Names original camp including campfire and chapel sites. The camp will have eight patrol camps with “Phil-Turn” style ramadas, an activity pavillion, leadership lodge, and a Dave Kenneke’s “Another Good have borrowed from Philmont geog- low-level challenge course. Campsite” column in the December raphy or history or traditions to name Although the photo above shows the beginnings of the camp during a snow- 2012 issue mentioned former staffers their offspring. Dave asked for emails storm on the last day of 2012, a clear day on the ridge offers commanding views he knew who had named a daughter and received several. If you would like of , Stonewall Pass, and the rugged beauty of Rayado Canyon. “Miranda” based on Philmont’s beauti- to contribute to the story he is writing, ful mountain meadow of the same please contact him at dave.kenneke@ (*Another Great Way to Get Back to Philmont and Give Back To Scouting!) name. That prompted musings about scouting.org. Thank you. – Dave Kenneke what other former Philstaffers might

Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 Volume 36, Number 1— February 2013 38 trail talk good campsite 39