December 2014 Volume 37, Number 6

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 f f 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 Philmont of experience and heritage . and the 17 DEER RUN ROAD CIMARRON NM 87714 Our Mission High Country®—Volume 37, Number 6 Philmont Staff Association® December 2014 Board Of Directors Ed Pease, Editor Mark Dierker, Layout Editor John Murphy, President Colleen Nutter, Vice President, Membership Randy Saunders, Associate Editor Tim Rosseisen, Vice President, Service in this issue Bill Cass, Copy Editor Warren Smith, Vice President, Development Dave Kenneke, Staff Contributor Adam Fromm, Secretary Kevin “Levi” Thomas, Cartoonist Matt Lindsey, Treasurer columns

Contributing Editors National Directors 4 from the prez Robert Birkby David Caffey Amy Boyle Bill Cass Gregory Hobbs Ken Davis 12 ranch roundup - document archive Warren Smith Mark Stinnett Bryan Delaney Mary Stuever Stephen Zimmer Catherine Hubbard 12 ranch roundup - 2015 treks Lee Huckstep 22 from the editor High Country® is the official publication of the Dr. Dan Miller Philmont Staff Association® and is published six Steve Rick 39 good campsite times per year as a benefit to its members. Regional Directors © 2014, The Philmont Staff Association, Inc. Northeast All rights reserved. No copyright claimed for Kathleen Seitz articles previously copyrighted or public material. Rick Touchette Permission granted for non-commercial reprinting 6 psa news - copyrights donated or redistribution with proper attribution. Central Mitch Standard 7 psa news - ‘65 rangers High Country®, Philmont Staff Association®, Phil Winegardner PSA® and the official PSA logo® 8 psa news - new year’s at psr are all registered trademarks of: Southern Anne Marie Pinkenburg 9 psa news - 2015 psa trek The Philmont Staff Association, Inc. Doug Wahl 13 seasonal staff scholarships 17 Deer Run Road Cimarron, New Mexico 87714 Western 19 whiteman vega 575-376-1138 Nancy Stickelman Michael Waggoner 20 psr acquires cimarroncita For membership and subscription information, On the cover: Philmont acquires the 23 C4P hits goal visit our website at: Jim lynch, Immediate Past President historic Cimarroncita Ranch Camp. 31 ptc news WWW.PHILSTAFF.COM Mark Anderson, Philmont Staff Advisor Article on page 20. Photo by Bryan 36 philmont history Ex Officio Members Hayek. Emery Corley, Legal Advisor High Country® welcomes articles, photos and Douglas Fasching, Technology Manager other letters for consideration for future issues. . Submission does not guarantee publication. 5 bulletin board The editors and publisher reserve the right to select and edit materials to be published. Randy Saunders, Executive Director 24 87714 pride Dollie O’Niell, Office Manager Send submissions, letters or comments to 38 trail talk “ High Country” at the above address or e-mail: PSA® FELLOWS

[email protected] Bob Harvey Fellow PAUL and MARY JANE HARVEY ® If you would like to receive High Country Glenn A. Fowler Fellow in electronic rather than paper format, please BRUCE BARNES contact the PSA office at [email protected] George A. Bullock Fellow Members Only Access WILLIAM D. BRYCE Contributing Writers ® Opinions expressed in High Country are those of Jan Gimar Lee Huckstep Joe Davis Fellow USER NAME: BUCKCREEK the writers and, unless otherwise stated, BILL CASS David Kenneke Larry Murphy do not necessarily reflect the views of the John A. Maxbauer, Jr. Fellow hil unker hilmont taff ssociation® hilmont Password: phillipsjunction P Y P S A , P ANONYMOUS Scout Ranch, or the Boy Scouts of America.

Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 3 from the president ise you that PSA has some great ideas Saunders in the PSA office and he will for upcoming events both at the Ranch pass those on. In the meantime, have a and around the country - more on those great holiday season and I wish you all Thankful for 2014 in later editions of High Country. The a great end to the year. Service Committee is always looking for new ideas, so if you have some - John Murphy It’s the holiday season and you are to make Philmont the experience of a to share please email or call Randy President probably already busy spending quality lifetime for those that pass through the time with friends and family members, gates. going to holiday events, and running Philmont Management – Their around shopping with everyone else. eagerness to welcome former staff back, We tend to speed up, when we should make weekend events at the Ranch BULLETIN BOARD be slowing down. Take a break and possible, provide slots for summer Upcoming PSA® Events consider all the good things that hap- reunion treks and Autumn Adventure Houston Philmont Christmas Party – Saturday, December 20, 2014 @ 5:00PM pened in 2014. is so appreciated. They graciously pro- Home of PSA National Director Lee Huckstep What are you thankful for this time vide the PSA with office space and that Contact: [email protected] of year? We all get busy with our lives just scratches the surface of how they support us. Thank you John Clark and New Year’s at Philmont – December 31, 2014-January 1, 2015 and if you are like me we sometimes just forget to stop and reflect on what Mark Anderson for all you do. Contact: Randy Saunders at [email protected] has been meaningful and impactful Fall weather - I can’t help it. I am always thankful to get away from the PSA Summer Reunion – July 10-12, 2015 throughout the year. I decided to do Philmont Scout Ranch just that over the weekend. Now, of heat of a Texas summer, especially course, I am thankful for family and when I get the chance to take in the cool PSA Summer Trek – July 12-18, 2015 Philmont Scout Ranch faith, but here is my list of Philmont fall evenings of northern New Mexico. related blessings: PSA – What a thrill it is to be part Thankful for and of this dynamic association. Year after his family - Their willingness to share year, PSA continues to support and the land with the BSA gave me a place serve the Ranch, and if 2014 is any to work three incredible summers in the indication, we are poised for new ad- mountains. Mr. Phillips was impressed ventures in 2015 and the coming years. enough with the conservation values of I am especially thankful for all the new the Boy Scouts that he felt no reserva- friendships I have made in the PSA. tion in turning over such beautiful As we near the end of the year, resources to their care. How incredible let’s remember to keep Philmont and is that? the PSA on our minds. Support them Philmont Staff – What can I say… where you can through attendance at the collection of hard-working people reunions, become a Staff Amigo, serve astound me with their ability to operate on committees, donate to the Annual such a complex organization with lots Fund, send notes of encouragement; of moving pieces. I am thankful for whatever it is that you can offer. 2015 is the part that each staff member plays right around the corner and I can prom-

Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 4 from the prez bulletin board 5 ® psa news logue, but retains the timeless foreword by Joe Davis. The Last Flight of Liberator 41-1133 is Copyrights to Two Books Donated To PSA currently in revision. There is a con- nection between Bill’s current book project and The Last Flight since Captain Former National Director Bill Cass has Blackburn was the superintendent donated the copyrights to Return to the of the four-engine bomber school in Summit of and The last Flight of Albuquerque from which the ill-fated Liberator 41-1133 to the Philmont Staff Liberator (serial number 41-1133) flew Association. Return to the Summit of on a roundtrip training mission to Scouting, a Philmont staff adventure Kansas City. Had he not stayed behind narrative including a 1991 “return” on a in Kansas City for meetings, Blackburn regular expedition, was first published would have been on the bomber when in 1993 by Michigan-based Wilderness it flew into the fateful storm on April Adventure Books. The Last Flight of 22, 1942. Liberator 41-1133 is the detailed analysis The updated second edition of The of a flying accident – one very familiar Last Flight contains several new photo- to the Philmont community since it graphs, including photos of the wreck- is about the Trail Peak B-24 Liberator age itself and of Blackburn during the crash. The contractual agreement with recovery of bodies from Trail Peak. The The Last Flight of Liberator 41-1133, second Wilderness Adventure Books expired at book will be available for sale through of two book copyrights donated to the PSA. the end of 2012 just before both books PSA by the end of the year. went out of print. Previous to that, Wilderness Calling Rangers of ‘65 Adventure Books moved away from narratives of National Park Service Dennis DuBois reminds our readers group, or if you have any contact infor- Rangers, wilderness canoe and back- Return to the Summit of Scouting, one of that he and his team of ’65 Philmont mation for others who were Rangers in packing narratives, and other outdoor two book copyrights donated to the PSA. Rangers are well into the planning 1965, please contact Denny at dennis- stage for a reunion commemorating [email protected] or 703-786-4772. titles to concentrate on Michigan-based both books are significant records of their 50th anniversary – next summer, Or you may contact Randy Saunders at subjects. Philmont history, Bill proposed that in conjunction with the PSA reunion [email protected] or 575-376- Bill had indicated to the PSA Pub- PSA publish new editions of both books and annual meeting at the Ranch. If 1138. Do it today! Thank you. lications Committee that his current as new additions to its growing list of you are a member of that esteemed book project about Trans World Airlines Philmont titles. Captain Harold F. Blackburn was so The second edition of Return to the research-intensive that he did not want Summit was printed as the Twentieth Articles Sought for next Conservation Issue to get involved in self-publishing the Anniversary Edition (actually the third two books or starting the process of printing) and was available for sale Trying her hand at crowdsourcing, Conservation Special Issue Editor proposing the titles to other publish- at Philmont in June 2014. The book Mary Stuever solicits ideas, articles, and suggestions for the upcom- ers. Considering the momentum PSA contains a new introduction, some new ing third special issue of High Country devoted to conservation at the has gained as a publisher and that photographs, and an expanded Epi- Ranch. Please contact her at: [email protected].

6 psa news Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 psa news 7 New Years at the Ranch 2014-15 PSA Trek: Destruction and New Philmont and the Philmont Staff Association are teaming up to welcome former Beginnings staffers back to the Ranch to celebrate the incoming new year. Come out to Philmont and join your Phil-friends for fellowship at this special time.

Lodging: Available at Philmont December 31 through January 1: by Lee Huckstep with Phil Yunker thunderous crash of concrete, logs and • Roofed housing at PTC (duplexes, multiplex rooms, etc.): $30.00 per person one large cast-iron stove. I went to the per night. On the night of Thursday, June 17, 1965, dining room door, opened it and faced a mighty flood swept down the Agua – instead of the vestibule leading to Meals: Fria in Philmont’s South Country, bat- the kitchen – a raging torrent of water • Dinner on December 31 is being provided free of charge by Philmont. tering the Fish Camp buildings stand- washing by. The pantry and kitchen • Build-your-own Omelet Breakfast on January 1 is being provided free of ing in its way. As Phil Yunker, the Fish were gone, but the roof still hung on, charge by the Philmont Staff Association. Camp Director, recalls it from the letters intact, cantilevered over darkness.” **These are the only meals that will be available at Philmont.** he sent home shortly afterwards: The light of the next morning re- “The water had undermined the vealed the Agua Fria to still be a mighty New Year’s Eve Events: foundations of the kitchen enough that force, and that other buildings, such • “What’s going on at Philmont” remarks by Ranch Management. we moved what we could out of the as the servant’s lodge, had been swept • Satellite television, games, karaoke, billiards tournament, and fellowship at kitchen and closed it off. As we waited away as well. The damage to buildings Silver Sage Staff Activity Center. by the fire in the living room the whole and campsites was so extensive that • Bring your musical instruments for a jam session. lodge seemed to groan, windows in Fish Camp was closed to campers the the kitchen broke, and the kitchen and remainder of the summer. New Year’s Day Events: pantry washed away with a grinding, The closure of Fish Camp neces- • Football games on TV in the Silver Sage Staff Activity Center. • Philmont 5K run/walk and day hikes to be determined by weather condi- tions. • Activities and events in the area, including skiing at: Angel Fire www.angelfireresort.com/winter/ Red River www.redriverskiarea.com Taos Ski Valley www.skitaos.org

Roofed housing is expected to fill up quickly. Get your registration and money in today to reserve a room.

Are you staying nearby and just want to join us for the New Year’s Eve cel- ebration? Please let us know so we can make sure we cook enough dinner for everyone!

To make reservations: Contact DeeDee Montoya at (575) 376-2281 ext. 1135 or denise.montoya@scout- ing.org. The destruction at Fish Camp left in the wake of the 1965 Agua Fria flood

Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 8 psa news psa news 9 Staff members Phil Yunker and Bugger Brown in 1965 after the flood.

itinerary planning fun. child, sibling, parent, grandparent, The Trek will be preceded by the grandchild, niece, nephew or in-law of PSA Annual Reunion July 10-12. You PSA member who meets the eligibility can easily do both these events. Details requirements above. The waters of the Agua Fria the morning after the flood as seen from the porch at Rayado Lodge. for Reunion registration will be pub- sitated the establishment of another 1. Spend the night of Saturday, July 11 lished at a future time. Register now – several persons have South Country camp. The site selected in the Philmont area. already registered. For further informa- was Apache Springs, and so began a 2. Report to the Welcome Center at 8 The Trek eligibility requirements are tion contact: new Philmont staffed camp. a.m. on Sunday, July 12. as follows: Fifty years later, Apache Springs is 3. Hit the trail on Monday, July 13. Doug Latimer at [email protected] still there, and nature has done much 4. Come off the trail on Saturday, July (1) Be a member of the PSA or Trek- to repair the scarred landscape of Fish 18. eligible family member, Lee Huckstep at [email protected] Camp. You can enjoy these camps again 5. Depart Philmont Sunday, July 19. by joining the 2015 PSA Trek. (2) Be a member of the BSA, Dave Romack at [email protected] The cost is $475 per person and you We have 60 Trekker slots to fill. We can register by sending your check to have had no trouble filling these slots (3) Have a completed Philmont medical Cancellation policy: (1) Cancella- the PSA, 17 Deer Run Road, Cimarron, (and more) in past years and in 2015 form, tion prior to the registration deadline of NM 87714, or you can register on-line we will fill them all. Don’t dawdle and June 1, 2015 will receive a full refund. at www.philstaff.com beginning in wait, because your slot will be sold and (4) Be 14 years old OR completed 8th (2) Cancellation after the registration January, 2015. If you register by mail, you will be left weeping at the Wel- grade and be at least 13 years of age deadline will not receive a refund. please include a slip of paper with the come Center as your friends head to the prior to participation. Monies paid can be used for another names, ages and gender of your eligible bus drop-off points. PSA or Exchange Program event prior family members. (See below.) This As always, your crew will be free to (5) Be in good physical condition. to the end of 2016 or can be contributed helps to identify Youth Protection and design its own itinerary, subject to the to the General Fund. (3) In exceptional tenting issues early-on. PSA’s itinerary planning guidelines. Remember, you are encouraged to cases, the Executive Director AND Vice By registering early, you can form your bring your Trek-eligible family mem- President for Service can authorize full The basic Trek information is as fol- own crew or join the crew you want-- bers. Trek-eligible family members refunds for cancellation after the regis- lows: before it fills up – and be a part of the include your spouse, child or step tration deadline.

Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 10 psa news Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 psa news 11 ranch roundup PSA Awards $50,500 To 61 Seasonal Staff Members Philmont Document Archive Expanded by Jan Gimar

Through PSA members’ support of the Campaign4Philmont, Annual Fund, and After years of work, approximately labeled and organized in a single sea- PSA Store purchases, the Seasonal Staff Scholarship Fund in 2014 totaled $50,500. 100,000 crew, PTC & staff photos taken son (it takes about 30 seconds to scan This fund has been distributed to 61 seasonal staff members representing a broad during the years 1988-2013 are now one negative). Also in 2013, the website range of staff experiences and collegiate aspirations. These scholarships, rang- viewable on the Philmont website: interface that displays the photos was ing from $500 for first-year staffers to $1500 for those with three or more years of http://philmontscoutranch.org/Muse- designed and built. During the summer service, are designed to recognize academic performance and encourage further ums/PhotoArchive.aspx of 2014, an NPS staff member wrote staff service. All applicants must be members of the PSA, eligible for future staff For many years, Philmont Museum two programs. The first program or- service, enrolled as a full-time student, and demonstrate need. The scholarship employees have worked over the phone ganizes an entire year of labeled scans committee evaluated 94 applications and is pleased to announce the following to locate archived photos of former into folders by program and arrival day recipients: [R= 2013 recipient] Philmont staff and participants. It’s a (the structure seen on the website). The challenging process for staff to locate second program creates a tiny thumb- Amy Allbritton R Matthew Breeding an archived photo of someone they’ve nail and larger watermarked copy of Western State Colorado Univ. 2017 Sam Houston State Univ. TX 2016 likely never met. each photo in a specified year. Geology Chemistry/Physics In 2009, NPS staff began a longterm Bryan Hayek, Philmont’s Marketing 2nd Yr Staff; in 2014 1st Yr Staff; Ranger in 2014 process of digitizing the Philmont Manager and the driving force behind negative archive, which reaches back the project, expects it will take four or Taylor Anderson Philip Devine through 1966. Staff are working back- five more years to scan the remaining William Smith College, NY 2015 Univ. of Mary Washington, VA 2016 ward, beginning with 2006 negatives. In 20 years of photos. Economics & Environmental Studies Geography 2013, 30,000+ negatives were scanned, 3rd Yr Staff; Cons. Sustainability Spec. 1st Yr Staff; Cons. GIS Technician in in 2014 2014

“I have learned countless lessons on Allison Dietz R how to work as a team, manage risk, The Toney Family Scholarship TREKS AVAILABLE FOR 2015 handle difficult situations and take ini- Univ. of Colorado-Denver 2014 (Dec) tiative on various projects. The work I MA in Communications It now appears that Philmont will exhaust its waiting did this summer…..helped me to bridge 5th Yr Staff; Backcountry Manager in list for 2015 treks, leaving slots available for next sum- the gap between my undergraduate 2014 mer. The available slots are primarily in August, though studies and my love of Philmont.” there will be a few in June and July. If you are interested Padraic Elliott Bradley Auker Tallahassee Community College, FL in sending a crew to Philmont next summer, you must Millersville Univ. PA 2017 2014 (Dec) act quickly. Go to [email protected] immediately to Secondary Education (History) Biology (Associate’s Degree) reserve your space. 1st Yr Staff; Staff in 1st Yr Staff; Conservationist in 2014 2014 “I have learned more about GIS (map-

12 ranch roundup Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 seasonal staff scholarships 13 making software) this summer than in Alexander Kramme “This scholarship means the world to General Studies any of my formal classes! The possibil- Whatcom Community College-WA me. I’ve learned so much from everyone 1st Yr Staff; Prog. Counselor Fish Camp ities are truly endless with this incred- 2017 [at Philmont] and even about myself. in 2014 ible software. I have a ton of ideas on Biology So many staff members believe in me how Philmont could distribute info via 1st Yr Staff; Ranger in 2014 and what I can do….that means so Jonathan Schafer web map.” much.” Bowling Green State Univ.-OH 2016 “This summer, I took a position re- Geology Shaun Frankow lated to my major and realized while Samuel Moore 1st Yr Staff; Ranger in 2014 Marquette Univ., WI 2017 working at Philmont that I am in the P. James & Judith A. Delaney Staff Mechanical Engineering right major. I love what I do here at Scholarship Carlo Sivilotti 2nd Yr Staff; Rayado Ranger in 2014 Philmont and am excited to learn more Ft. Lewis College-CO 2018 Swarthmore College-PA 2018 at school that I can bring back next Business Engineering Jonathan Goode R year and share with more Philmont 2nd Yr Staff; Ranger in 2014 1st Yr Staff; Medical Re-check Staff in Univ. of Alabama 2017 staff members.” 2014 Environmental Science “You’re always working, but how many 2nd Yr Staff; Ranger in 2014 Jacob Lee R people can wake up and walk out their Rachel Solomons Alma College-MI 2015 front door to such a view?” Florida State College 2018 “As a Rayado Ranger, I was the happi- Biology Liberal Arts est I have ever been yet I was working 3rd Yr Staff; PTC Prep Cook in 2014 Joel Neuhart 3rd Yr Staff; Prog. Counselor Crooked harder than I ever have! There is some- Morehead State Univ.-KY 2016 Creek in 2014 thing special about being on Philmont Deanna Madagan Dr. Marshall E Hollis Family Scholar- staff and spending a summer in God’s Univ. of Virginia 2017 ship Javan Stalls Country. IWGBTP!” Kinesiology Biomedical Sciences Trinity Univ.-TX 2017 1st Yr Staff; Wrangler in 2014 2nd Yr Staff; Ranger in 2014 Biochemistry/ Molecular Biology Cassandra Hansen 1st Yr Staff; Ranger in 2014 Willamette Univ., OR 2016 Michael Martinez Katherine Peterson Environmental Science New Mexico State Univ. 2018 Brandeis Univ.-MA 2016 “The people here at Philmont, includ- 3rd Yr Staff; Ranger Trainer in 2014 Mechanical Engineering MA in Anthropology ing my bosses, care about my chal- 5th Yr Staff; Groundskeeping Foreman 3rd Yr Staff; Camp Dir. Indian Writings lenges, both in the job I work and the Victoria Highley in 2014 in 2014 education I work to achieve. Because Western Washington Univ. 2017 of this scholarship, I will be able Physics Abigail Miller Gage Reigelman to choose the experiences I want to 1st Yr Staff; PTC Group Leader 1 in Louisiana State Univ. 2016 Stephen F. Austin State Univ.-TX 2014 have….rather than get stuck doing 2014 Elementary Education (Dec) something that lends nothing to my 1st Yr Staff; Camping Outfitting Ser- Geographic Information Systems education.” Ashton Jones R vices in 2014 4th Yr Staff; Conservation GIS Coord. Missouri State Univ. 2017 in 2014 William Struble Wildlife Biology Debbie Mitcham Univ. of Nevada, Reno 2016 2nd Yr Staff; Prog. Counselor French Auburn Univ.-AL 2016 Aubrey Ritterhouse Geology Henry in 2014 Psychology McClennan Community College-TX 1st Yr Staff; Prog. Counselor Ring Place 1st Yr Staff; Welcome Center in 2014 2018 in 2014

Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 14 seasonal staff scholarships seasonal staff scholarships 15 2nd Yr Staff; Logistics Staff in 2014 courses aren’t covered by [my Univer- sity] scholarship and need to be paid “I attribute all of my success to my out-of-pocket. However, these courses experience here at Philmont because I will directly help better my service to was surrounded by people who value Philmont.” sharing their talents and time with others. I now share these same values. Benjamin Herries I could not imagine where I would be Missouri Univ. of Science and Technol- now if I did not spend [that first] sum- ogy 2015 mer at Philmont.” Geological Engineering 1st Yr Staff; Prog. Counselor Clear Alisha DeVore Creek in 2014 Oklahoma State Univ. 2017 Animal Science/Pre-Veterinary Matthew Hill 1st Yr Staff; Wrangler in 2014 Univ. of Illinois 2018 Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering Kayla Drummond 1st Yr Staff; Ranger in 2014 Lula Mae Love Memorial Scholarship Shawnee State Univ., OH 2015 Cassidy Johnson R Special Educ. Intervention Specialist Western Kentucky Univ. 2016 1st Yr Staff; PTC Small Fry Director in Photojournalism 2014 2nd Yr Staff; Photo Manager in 2014 William Troske Music Ministry Univ. of Michigan 2017 2nd Yr Staff; Prog. Counselor Black Mt. Phillip Foster Lucas Koch Chemical Engineering in 2014 Pittsburg State Univ., KS 2018 Univ. of Wisconsin at Steven’s Point 1st Yr Staff; Ranger in 2014 History 2017 Katharine Aoki 1st Yr Staff; Ranger in 2014 Natural Resource Law Enforcement Bonnie Warrick Wellesley College, MA, 2017 2nd Yr Staff; Prog. Counselor Apache Concordia Univ.-TX 2017 Religion Daniel Goering Sprgs in 2014 Business 1st Yr Staff; Prog. Counselor Abreu in Rockhurst Univ., MO 2017 1st Yr Staff; Ranger in 2014 2014 Biochemistry/Spanish “I applied for three different jobs at my 2nd Yr Staff; Ranger in 2014 school’s rec center…..and got all three Dylan Wilhelm Dominic Baima because of my outdoor experiences [in West Texas A & M Univ. 2017 Eastern Illinois Univ. 2016 David Gouge Scouting and at Philmont]. This schol- Engineering Technology Marketing Univ. of Florida 2017 arship will help me on my journey [to 1st Yr Staff; OA Trail Crew Foreman in 1st Yr Staff; News and Photo Services Mathematics become a physician’s assistant].” 2014 in 2014 2nd Yr Staff; CHQ Dining Hall Ass’t. Mgr. in 2014 Peter Lampley Aaron Anderson Alex Brehmer Sewanee, The Univ. of the South-TN Univ. of Northwestern-St. Paul, MN Central Michigan Univ. 2017 “I want to take courses outside the 2016 2014 (Dec) Logistics and Marketing University (EMT/Firefighter). These American Studies

Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 16 seasonal staff scholarships seasonal staff scholarships 17 1st Yr Staff; Ranger in 2014 Alexander Mott Sarah Rollings Amelia Trenga R Appalachian State Univ.-NC 2017 Eastern New Mexico Univ. 2014 (Dec) Baldwin Wallace Univ.-OH 2015 Victoria Mack R Architectural Design History Criminal Justice Univ. of Minnesota-Twin Cities 2015 1st Yr Staff; Wrangler in 2014 1st Yr Staff; Villa Tour Guide in 2014 3rd Yr Staff; Camp Dir. Hunting Lodge Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineer- in 2014 ing/ Ecological and Environmental James O’Rourke William Shrader Engineering Hillsdale College-MI 2017 Georgia State Univ. 2017 “I see the relationship between my 3rd Yr Staff; Ranger Trainer in 2014 Economics Environmental Science/ Political Sci- education and Philmont to be entirely 1st Yr Staff; Prog. Counselor ence linked in a very positive way. In my Jeffrey Maiden Cimarroncito in 2014 2nd Yr Staff; Motor Pool in 2014 opinion, this is the perfect summer job Kansas State Univ. 2015 (Fall) for me. Every summer…has been better Food Science “I’ve had a LOT of fun at Philmont, “I always thought of Philmont as ‘just than the last.” 1st Yr Staff; Prog. Counselor Carson but I’ve also learned a lot about life. another Scout camp.’ Now I know how Mdws in 2014 Every summer I work at Philmont, I re- wrong I was.” Kristen Wieber examine and re-affirm my educational Univ. of Tennessee 2017 Thomas Menteer goals…..Thanks to the PSA scholar- Samantha Smith Therapeutic Recreation St. Louis Univ.-MO 2018 ships, I was given the financial boost Alma College-MI 2016 1st Yr Staff; Prog. Counselor Fish Camp Mechanical Engineering I needed to continue toward a 4-year Biology/ Art in 2014 1st Yr staff; CHQ Dining Hall Staff in degree.” 1st Yr Staff; PTC Craft Center Staff in 2014 2014 Ellen Wright Jacob Phelps R The Lyle Potts Memorial Scholarship “[At Philmont] the work is hard, but it Paradise Valley Community College- Bennett Sorensen Purdue Univ.-IN 2016 is well worth it when it comes to the AZ 2016 Pitzer College-CA 2017 Chemical Engineering company, fun, views, and weather….. Pre-Engineering Molecular Biology 2nd Yr Staff; Prog. Couns. Head of all the staff are phenomenal. My 5th Yr staff; Logistics Staff in 2014 1st Yr Staff; Environ Educ/ ROCS Instr. Dean in 2014 primary goal in college is to make sure In 2014 that none of my parents’ sacrifices were Samuel Richards in vain.” Baker Univ.-KS 2015 Road to Whiteman Vega Permanently Closed Biology Jay Minton 1st Yr Staff; PTC Kitchen Prep Chef in As part of the United States Forest Ser- life were created by the bulldozer crew Univ. of Oklahoma 2014 (Dec) 2014 vice’s effort to eliminate nonessential as part of the project. USFS personnel, Environmental Geology roads in the national forests, their staff with an assist from Mother Nature, will 4th Yr Staff; Conservation Coordinator “The greatest impact on me this sum- has been working with Philmont and re-seed the land in order to hasten its in 2014 mer came from the many different peo- others to eliminate one of the two roads reversion to a natural state. ple I met on staff. A thousand different which provide access to Whiteman Access to Whiteman Vega will now Joseph Mocharnuk faces with a thousand different stories Vega. As a consequence, in mid-Octo- be exclusively via the existing road Univ. of Chicago 2016 to tell…..Hearing how everyone else ber, Philmont’s road and maintenance through the meadow. Because that English/Public Policy & Economics pursues their dreams gets me excited to staffs used bulldozers to degrade the road is also used by local cattle growers 2nd Yr Staff; Prog. Counselor Beaubien do the same.” compaction of the service road from to access windmills, it was determined in 2014 the upper ridge, approximately three- that it was the one which should be quarters of a mile. Thirty-seven water maintained for the future. diversions and several tanks for wild-

Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 18 seasonal staff scholarships whiteman vega 19 Philmont Acquires Historic Cimarroncita 1908 to increase ridership. The line cantly in Philmont’s goal of spreading Ranch Camp operated until the early 1940s, when it campers further apart from each other, was abandoned and the rails removed giving them more of a wilderness-type At its October meeting, the national adobe trading post, a one-room school- and recycled for use in defense manu- experience, and several of the high Executive Board of the Boy Scouts of house from the days of the Santa Fe facturing during World War II. mountain meadows will be ideal for America approved the purchase of the Trail, and various outbuildings. Minnette “Minnit” Thompson (later Leave No Trace components of ROCS historic Cimarroncita Ranch Camp It seems especially appropriate that Minnette Thompson Burk) acquired and Rayado. The water rights are (CRC). With all conditions of pur- the property in the early 1930s and significant and the fishing along the chase now having been met, the sale opened The Cimarroncita Ranch Camp Cimarron will allow major expansion is expected to close by the end of the for Girls. It flourished and developed of this program – both during the sum- year. The 2678+ acre property, just east a reputation as one of the finest camps mer and in the “second season.” And of Ute Park and bounded primarily by of its kind. After three generations of perhaps most importantly, the facilities US 64, the Colin Neblett State Wild- management by Minnit and her heirs, lend themselves extremely well to use life Area and Philmont Scout Ranch, the camp ceased operations in 1995. by the Philmont Training Center, both also includes both underground and Philfolk will recognize among its alum- as instructional space and as recreation- surface water rights, two miles of the nae Julie Phillips Puckett and Gretchen al facilities for participants in the PTC Rockenfeld, together with many others family programs. Cimarron River with outstanding fly Interior of one of the spacious dining rooms. fishing, several reservoirs, Ponderosa with a Philmont connection. A more extensive planning/devel- forests, aspen groves and high moun- Philmont acquire Cimarroncita in the Philmont ranch management opment process will commence im- tain meadows. Views of the area, and same year that it opened its newest completed a thorough review of the mediately upon closing and will likely especially of Baldy Mountain, are spec- staffed living history camp, Metcalf property and buildings prior to the take several months to develop, then tacular. The base camp, which includes Station, devoted to the history of rail- purchase, to determine whether (and if several years to implement. However, the principal residence designed by roading in the Cimarron area. Cimar- so, how) Cimarroncita could enhance some of the trails and campsites will be legendary New Mexico architect John roncita, as we know it today, began as the Philmont experience and Philmont incorporated into itineraries beginning Gaw Meem, sits at approximately 7400 a resort, one of many constructed by program. The location is ideal for a bus in the summer of 2015. So – as if you feet and climbs to over 9700 feet above railroads in the American West. The turnaround to replace the one at Bear ever needed an excuse to come back to Sawmill Canyon. Its hunting program land that currently comprises CRC was Canyon which will be closed, and trails Philmont – “come on down” and see includes elk, turkey, deer, bear, coyote used by Native Americans as sum- on the property are easily linked to the latest historic property to join the mer hunting grounds, and later by the those on Philmont in the Sawmill area, Philmont portfolio. United States Army Cavalry for graz- and Vista Grande. It will help signifi- ing along the river. It was part of the Beaubien-Miranda Land Grant, and it was the development of the land by the successor owner- ship that resulted in construction of the camp as it is currently known. As the Lodging buildings on the Cimarroncita property. St. Louis, Rocky Mountain and Pacific Railway reached from Raton through and mountain lion. The property also Cimarron to Ute Park, a tourist destina- includes a 22 bed lodge, a dining hall tion with lodging, dining and dancing with commercial kitchen, a restored facilities was built at Cimarroncita in View across the Cimarroncita property.

20 psr acquires cimarroncita Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 psr acquires cimarroncita 21 BUY PHILMONT TRAIL MEALS FOR Campaign4Philmont Hits $1.4M Goal YOUR OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES The Philmont Staff Association’s third

major capital campaign has reached THE PHILMONT COMMISSARY OFFERS SURPLUS 2014 TRAIL MEALS ANYONE TO its goal of $1.4 million in pledges, with WHO HAS A NEED FOR READY TO EAT MEALS $1.2 million already collected and the remainder pledged to be paid in 2015. Sales are open from September Sold to Out Although there have been several capi- tal projects of smaller scale throughout the PSA’s history, the last twenty years traditions, and culture – through the You may purchase any quantity of meals you need by simply emailing [email protected] to obtain a have seen major capital campaign 2014 ordering package. The package will include an order form with pricing, r a form for submitting you credit Seton Library and Philmont Museum success for the PSA Staff Dining Hall card information and menus of what each meal contains. Ordering information is also available on the and elsewhere, the Ranch’s Santa Fe ($300,000 – a “cost-share” program with Philmont website. The information is located under the Resources tab and then select Surplus Sales. Trail initiative includes a number of ranch management for the $600,000 Most surplus meal orders are shipped within 5 business days from receipt of the order. Unless special shipping is requested the order will be PSA members in key roles…and much shipped by UPS Ground and the freight charges will be added to your order. UPS Ground delivers the meals in 3 to 5 days most locations in the project) and the Silver Sage Staff Activ- USA. more. ity Center ($1 million – completely So it was no surprise that, when it funded by the PSA). became evident that Philmont’s needs Those campaigns focused on facili- exceeded its resources, the PSA would ties which were directly related to the be asked to partner with the ranch in Philmont staff – but as those campaigns meeting needs beyond those just strictly helped transform the PSA into a larger, “staff-related” (and some would say stronger, and more effective organiza- that any investment in the ranch is For the second consecutive year, Philmont’s tion, its role at the Ranch broadened as “staff-related” because everything that well. While remaining true to our mis- Traders has been named one of the top 100 outdoor retailers happens there touches staff as well as sion of member support and keeping in the country. Visit them at toothoftimetraders.com and see participants). In this case, those needs former staffers in touch with each other why. became the four components of the and with the ranch, the PSA was also Campaign4Philmont. They were: clearly evolving into a full partner with the Ranch Committee and ranch man- • A new advisor’s meeting room, to agement – a key component in the sta- replace the old storage facility that had from the editor bility and vitality of the ranch, its pro- been used as the AMR for decades. The grams, and its people. PSA members The October issue of High Country included an article about the highly successful much larger room is part of the Hard- and leaders are now regularly called 2014 PSA Treks, together with a number of photographs. While we identified the esty Casa Central, which also includes on to join various Philmont task forces, participants in most of the photos, we missed two, which we include here, with offices for the Philmont Chaplain two former PSA Presidents serve on our regrets for the oversight. On the cover, left to right, front Eliana Jolkovsky, program (something they’ve never had Dave Jolkovsky; left to right back row Preston Johnson III, Preston Johnson II. the Ranch Committee and other Ranch before) and space for the Camping HQ In the “Notch” photo on page 6, left to right, Eliana Jolkovsky, Deems Burton, Committee members are engaged in Director. The PSA’s portion of the cost Preston Johnson II, Dave Slowey, Bill Watson, Paul Carter, Gail Hinshaw, Dave PSA programs, the PSA has become a of this project was $100,000. Jolkovsky, Ann Jolkovsky, Blake Carter, Blaine Carter, Preston Johnson III. major component in the preservation • Period-appropriate (and as Mark and advancement of Philmont’s history, Both photos courtesy of Dave Jolkovsky.

Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 22 from the editor C4P hits goal 23 Anderson is fond of saying, “prison- makes funds available to encourage campaign’s expenses total about 5% of grade”) backcountry furniture. With all staff to return for additional years at the funds raised, a very good cost/benefit the emphasis Philmont places on “do- ranch. With a majority of this year’s ratio. Any of the remaining adminis- ing it right” in our living history camps, 1100-member summer staff being first- trative funds not expended when the most still use (run-down) twentieth- year employees, the trend toward less books are closed will be transferred to century tables and chairs, a glaring dis- at PTC. As the population ages and tenure creates a challenge in ensuring the scholarship account. $100,000. traction from the clothing, equipment, the BSA works harder to reach Scouts continuity and quality. The scholarship Scores of volunteers were involved and program which comprise numer- and Scouters with ability challenges, program helps make it possible for staff in the campaign, under the direction ous backcountry camps. $200,000. the need for accessible bathrooms and to consider returning for “that one last of the Campaign4Philmont Commit- • Accessibility upgrades and facilities easier access to meeting facilities has year” and bolster stability and mainte- tee: Mark Anderson, Dale Apley, Dave dramatically increased. When we built nance of quality tradition at the Ranch. Bates, Rice Brewer, Denny Dubois, the Silver Sage Staff Activity Center, This year alone, more than $50,000 was Bishop Gerald Gettelfinger, Mark Grif- every step of the planning process kept awarded in PSA scholarships – and fin, Fr. Don Hummel, Joe Leisz, Matt accessibility in mind. That thinking there were many more applicants than Lindsey, Jim Lynch, John Murphy, will now be applied to PTC as well. recipients. $500,000. Lazar Palnick, Ed Pease, Laura Lampe $500,000. • Administrative expense. So as not Rosseisen, Randy Saunders, Bill Spice, • Scholarships for seasonal staff. One and John Thomas. Of special note was of the fastest-growing programs of the the leadership provided by Bill Spice Philmont Staff Association has been and Padre Gettelfinger for the advisor’s its seasonal staff college scholarship meeting room/chaplain offices; current program (see article, page 13). The PSA PSA President John Murphy and imme- diate Past President Jim Lynch whose major gifts will be recognized with the Where are YOU showing your 87714 Pride? “President’s Porch” at PTC; the late Bill McKown whose estate gift was the larg- est of the campaign and which will be As our readers are aware, High Country publishes occasional pho- recognized by Philmont with a building tos of the world travels of various named in his memory next summer; Phil-gear, usually accompanied by a and Laura Rosseisen who took charge brief explanation – and a shameless promotion for you to buy Phil-stuff of the scholarship component midway from the PSA. through the campaign and brought it to to affect the regular operating budget a successful conclusion. Share your 87714 sightings with us for future use on the website, in High of the PSA and the programs it pro- Also of significance was the gener- Country or both­! E-mail HIGHCOUN- vides to our members, the decision osity of donors who not only contrib- [email protected] with your sight- was made to incorporate the cost of uted to the scholarship fund, but did so ings, and if for some inexplicable rea- son you don't have your 87714 sticker running the Campaign4Philmont into in amounts sufficient to permanently yet, contact the PSA to purchase some the campaign itself. To date, approxi- endow the scholarships they created. at eminently reasonable prices. Shop for T-Shirts (and other cool 87714 mately $60,000 in expenses for printing, They include Bryan Delaney, Denice Wally Meyer showing off his 87714 pride at gear) at www.philstaff.com. publishing, postage, recognition and and Scott Toney, Dr. Marshall Hollis, Lambeau Field in Green Bay, WI. other administrative-related costs have Russell Smart, and Lyle Potts. Three been paid from C4P funds, meaning the other possible endowed scholarships

Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 24 87714 pride C4P hits goalf 25 are still under consideration by friends est gratitude of the PSA and the future Robert J. LaFortune Raymond Burett Susan Barriball of the PSA. A total of 432 people generations of Philmont staff and Bruce Lanier, Jr. John Craig John & Nadine Baxter donated to the Campaign4Philmont. participants who will benefit by their Steve Lauer Whit Culver R. Clifford Berg They are listed below, with the deep- generosity. John Lichtenegger Rev. James DeLair Marshall, Justin & Lauren Berger Meg & Erick Loven Dawn Ebach Larry & Linda Blair Chris Manheim Father Ed Erb Stephen Braunlich Jason Mascitti George Garmany, Jr. Steven Brown Pinnacle Level Donors John T. Moore David Caffey Julie Mascitti William Garrison Charles H. Brown, III Bill McKown The Rolley Foundation James Cash Vincent Matthews Dennis Gilpin Andrew Brownell Murphy-Payne Charitable Trust Bill Ryan William Cass John McConnell Kenneth Goertz & Sallie Brad Cannon The Gold Family Rev. Joseph J. Schuck The Chapman Family John McMahon Page-Goertz Karl Cheng Nancy Chazotte Russell Meals Robert Guglielmone Nathan Coney Baldy Level Donors Tooth of Time Level Donors John & Janice Clark Dr. Daniel F. Miller Jack Harris Sid Covington Dave Bates Raymond Bartlett Thomas Clement David Mitchell Roger Heyser Allen Croom Bryan Delaney Scott Beckett Keith Cooke Thomas Olson, MD Dale Hiatt Robert Crume Express UU Bar Ranch Michael Brady James W. Crawford, Jr. Joy Pendley-Griffin Steven Hickle Robert Denlinger Gerald Gettelfinger Gary Brunsman Raymond Czech Jack Person The Hubbard Family S. C. Dickerson Marshall Hollis Emery & Jayne Corley Richard & Elaine Davies Peter Pharr David Lentz Matthew Dukeman Lee Huckstep Fred Cribbett Kenneth P. Davis David Phillips William MacDonald Chip Elliott In Memory of Lyle Potts Hal Davis Linda Davis John Ragsdale Mike McAdams Thomas Ervin Darrow Kirkpatrick Double Vigil Golf Classic Charles DuBois Michael & Anna Rounds Thomas McKenzie John Everhart Andrew Koo Dana Edwards Dennis & Marla DuBois Mark Sagers Gordon McKinnie Edward Fisher Bill & Jackie Lockwood David Fromm Sherri & David Durica Barbara Saunders Ned & Diane Miller Irwin Freiberger Jim & Jane Lynch Steve Hall Bruce Dvorak David Setzer James W. Mills Adam Fromm Jim MacGillivray Father Steve Hoffer J. Bruce Embury Sam Sibley Judge Richard Mills Robert Fudge Dr. & Mrs. Brian Osgood Matthew Lindsey Father Raymond Fecteau Warren Smith Doug Minnich Barbara Garcia Lazar Palnick Steve & Kris Matthews Lowell Flickinger Bill & Sandra Spice Tony Money Mary Gilbert Edward Pease Greg McEwen Thomas Florer Mitch & Christine Standard Matthew & Jennifer Painter Paul Gold Jim Ryffel Catherine Mirick Bill & Paula Fromm William Stansfield Cynthia Pisor-Zapel Robert Grove Russell Smart Steve & Diane Nelson Keith & Lois Jean Gallaway John Sucher Stewart Rounds Zachary Hanks Rowland Smith, III Kenneth Parks Robert Allan Gibbs Matthew Terribile Michael Seitzinger Jodi Harris Dr. John & Reena Thomas Mark Rom Jan Gimar Susan Thrasher Harrison Smith Rogge Heflin Scott & Denice Toney Tim & Laura Rosseisen Michael Griffin Dean & Bonita Tooley Michael W. Smith Jeffrey Higbie Michael Waggoner Robert F. Smith Gary Hale Robert Trenga Dave Taliaferro James Hinkle Philip Yunker Frances & Michael Sulgrove William Harken Donald Wilson Richard Thom Adrian Holmes Troop 285 San Antonio, TX Thomas Hedderick Phil Winegardner Matthew Wafer Morris Hoover Phillips Level Donors Benjamin Heyser Will Woods John Weyer Erich Howard Park Foundation Urraca Level Donors John & Emy Hinnant Dean White Jarrett Hudnall Dave Romack John Anderson Michael Hoffman Trail Peak Level Donors Father Donald Hummel Paul Anderson Chuck Hoover Ray Batchelor Rayado Level Donors In Memory of Lloyd Knutson Black Mountain Level Donors Anonymous Janet & Larry Horwath Paul Beames George Alexander Reggie Jayne Robert S. Allen Patricia Blinn Carolene Huguenin Scott Begin James Atkins Preston Johnson Clarence Baldwin Todd Bohlen Robert & Juli Jackson Kevin Belknap Glenn Ault Rick & Debra Kagawa Peter Cates Amy Boyle Frank Jones Cortland Bolles Elizabeth Bamberger William M. Kanche, Jr. John Henson Rice Brewer Dr. Bob Klein Kent Brown Steven Barrett Paul Kapfer William McWhiney Karen & Jack Butler Gene & Sue Klingler

26 C4P hits goal Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 C4P hits goal 27 Paul Kendra Kenneth Wible Mark Holcomb Frank Reigelman Charles Berlin Bill & Donna Kiel Robert Wicker Kevin & Diana Honnell Timothy Riedl Patricia Brunker Matthew Laudone David Wilson Blaine Houmes Ronald Riesinger Glen Dickens Katherine Leach Kenneth Wood Paul Hudson Jennifer Rigdon-Teter John Ewanowski Joe Leisz Thomas Yarboro Mark Johnson Ron & Madge Rogers Donald Fidler Deborah Liebermann Brad Jones Tom Sadlo Christopher Gale Mahlon Lineaweaver Wilson Mesa Level Donors John Kee Vickie Sanders James Gregg John Makowski Nathan Abele Alan Kelso Kathleen Seitz Gordon Gross Paul May Bruce Barre W. Russell King Bob Sirhal Matthew Harry Michael Mazzocco Jonathan Berg Bradley Kinsman Bryan Spencer Ami Hazell Michael McGlone Terry Bohlen Jeffrey Knoll Katie Stallman Chad Heflin George Michaels Gerald Brown Paul Kramer Keith Stivers Ray Henderson John J. Mills Rhett Burleson Randy Larsen Becky Stone Warren Higgins Ron Morton Baldwin Burr Rick Lassiter Richard Stone Betsy Huddleston Tom O’Brien John Calcaterra Thomas Ledbetter Mark Svoboda Patrick Jackson Marc Paige Donald Carlson David Liebmann Douglas Trevett Steve Livengood Reagan Parr David Combs Keith Lingle James Van Hecke Linda McKnight Jennifer Philp David Cooper Steven Lozinski Lois Voigt Bob Miller Roland Pool Thomas Coughlin Marlene Lugg Perry Wakefield Ryan Miske Rachel Ricklefs Mark Daly Patrick Malloy Mary Walcutt Jean Mitchell Gary Robinson R. Dean Davenport Brenda Manning Billy Walley Clark Neider Donald Rodgers Buddy Davis Carl Marchetti, MD Bob & Carolyn Walters Colleen McLaughlin Nutter Keith Rucker Robert Dealaman Erica Marrari Theresa Wandstrat Todd Olinger Randy Saunders Patrick Dennis Bing Martin William Ward Mike Popham James Savard Joseph Dworak Edward Martin Billy Warf Royce Read, MD Donald Schaffer Jed Fogle Robert Martin Sara Warren Marguerite Redford Lanny Schnipper Matthew Galchus W. Fritz Maxwell Charles Warshaver Erika Snow Robinson George Segelken Joseph Gallagher Samuel McClure Thomas Washburne Robert Saint Edward Shea Stuart Gleichenhaus Owen & Julia McCulloch George Worley Rev. Leroy Schultz William Shriver Alan Godwin Pamela Holley McElduff Roberta Zapple David Short Steve Silbiger Jeff Goldsmith Peter McGinn Howard Stephan Albert “Pete” Silldorff David Graham Danny McMurphy Supporters Searle Swedlund Michael & Elizabeth Smith Matthew Greulich Forrest McVicar Michele Allen Allison Vinson George Soltis Mark & Janet Griffin Michael Meenehan Jodie Anderson Martin Weir Kevin & Nancy Stickelman William Griffin Christopher Miller Michelle Barrentine Charles Wetter David Stowe Father Michael Hanifin Jay Minton Walter Bates David Wier Glenn Talbott Jane Harris Buddy Morse Steven Baty Christopher Wilcox William Thomison Roger Hemminghaus Bill Nalle Kevin Beehner Scott Tritt Thomas Hendershott Charles Nutter Troop 50 Fort Worth, TX Wesley Heyser Emile P. Oestriecher, III HOUSTON AREA PSA CHRISTMAS REUNION Steven & Cynthia Truemper H. Kent Hills Matthew Pepper On December 20, Lee Huckstep, together with Doug and Sharon Latimer, will John Van Dreese A. Zach Hirsch, Jr. Anne Marie Pinkenburg host a Christmas Reunion at Lee’s home located at 517 Hawthorne, Houston, Bob Walton Roddie Hobbs James Poole 77006. The Reunion will last from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and will feature beverages, a J. Oscar Wells Robert Hodges Paul & Mary Ellen light supper, and Philmont-related video entertainment. Guests are welcome. For Kevin Hogan Quigley Don Wendell more information, e-mail Lee at [email protected].

Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 28 C4P hits goal C4P hits goal 29 ptc news

Wood Badge Flag Flies at Zastrow Again

After an absence of several years, the The Longhorn Council Wood Badge flag flew at Zastrow again course had thirty participants and in September 2014. Longhorn Council sixteen staff. The course director was Wood Badge Course #133 spent three Jack Harper, former Philmont ranger days at Zastrow as part of their course. and now an active Scouter in the Fort The first three days were spent at Worth, Texas area. Under Jack’s leader- Rayado Ridge Leadership Camp. ship, this Wood Badge course was the SO MANY CHOICES For decades, Wood Badge train- first to utilize Rayado Ridge Leadership on how to receive High Country. ing occurred at Zastrow. According to Camp (RRLC) and Zastrow for a Wood The Other Side of the Road by Mark Badge course. Participants enjoyed ALL OF THEM GOOD. Griffin, the second Wood Badge course the chance to reflect on the important One of them green. offered in the United States was held at history of Zastrow and be part of a Philmont at Hunting Lodge in 1948. new era of training in Philmont’s south Print or digital? Color or black and white? Early or traditional delivery? This first course was such a success country. Congratulations to Jack and that the Wood Badge Lodge was built all of the participants and staff for a job But instead of choosing, how about taking “all of the above”? at Zastrow and courses were held there well done. from 1949-2002.The Zastrow course If you convert your paper subscription of High Country to digital, you will became the Wood Badge model for receive: courses all over the nation, “making If your council is interested in hosting a Wood Badge course at Philmont, please • Each issue via downloadable PDF email attachment a week before the Zastrow and Philmont in the minds of contact Andrea Watson at the Philmont release of the paper edition. many, the ‘home’ of American Wood Training Center. • Each online issue is in full color (the paper edition is in black and Badge.” white). • The opportunity to buy a bound (paper) annual edition (pictured above) for $5 (less than our cost).

So – convert and you will receive the color online early version and every December you will be given the opportunity to purchase the paper edition of all copies from the previous year bound into a book, for a total of $5. There you have it: Print and digital. Color and black and white. Early and traditional delivery. For 5 bucks.

Convert now by contacting the PSA office at 575-376-1138 or psadirector@ philstaff.com.

THANK YOU! Woodbadge Course 133 from Longhorn Council at Zastrow this past summer.

Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 30 ptc news 31 Creating Organizational Excellence – can’t help but enjoy the wide range of New Conference at PTC in 2015 will STEM-related activities. To support this initiative, the BSA developed the Nova Highlight Philmont’s Operation Awards program so that youth mem- bers have fun and receive recognition for their efforts. In conjunction with Philmont Scout Ranch has long been customer surveys to create a continu- this exciting BSA initiative, Philmont considered a center of excellence for ous improvement program that creates Training Center has two STEM experi- the delivery of outdoor programs and organizational excellence and they ences to choose from in 2015! training in the Boy Scouts of America. will experience the magic of a back STEM-tastic Scouting – Inspira- June 8-12 2015, the top leadership of country camp and learn how staff are tion, Imagination and Innovation the BSA will have the opportunity to prepared and trained for their role. This June 21-27 or September 13-19: learn how Philmont works and apply conference structure will be similar to This week-long STEM conference is topics like Leadership, Strategy and In- the Disney Institute teaching model: designed to help you and your council novation; Operational Excellence; and participants will study a topic and then integrate STEM programs and activities ing the natural science world taking the Right People Make the Difference see it in action at a Philmont location. into your current programming. day trips into Philmont’s backcountry. in their local councils. Facilitators for this exciting new confer- There will be many opportunities to Daily you will travel to and from loca- This unique session will blend ence will include BSA national volun- experience hands-on activities to share tions across Philmont, exploring and training on four disciplines that build teers and professionals including Chief with your units; these activities will be experimenting in the New Mexico wild. healthy organizations, with the op- Scout Executive Wayne Brock, Deputy accompanied by discussion on how to Discover the mechanics of COPE ad- portunity to see and experience those Gary Butler, implement, modify, and incorporated ventures, chemistry of the prairies flora principles in action at Philmont. This and National Council board members them in and for your programs. Excite- and fauna, and habitat of the Philmont course will provide participants access Nathan Rosenberg and Joe Landy. This ment, roadblocks, funding, recruitment, waterways and ecosystems. Climb to to see behind the scenes of Philmont. conference is designed for Council and training, resources, and tracking will new heights as you challenge your They will observe how Philmont uses Area Key 3s and has limited space. be topics addressed by this conference. skills with rock formations; climbing, Sign up to attend online at www.philm- rappelling and identifying the composi- 2015 STEM Opportunities at Philmont onttrainingcenter.org. tion of the landscape. Sign up now for #Awesome!—STEM Explorations this intense five day adventure. Sign up Training Center in Philmont’s Backcountry (14-20 age to attend online at www.philmonttrain- youth only) ingcenter.org. Why STEM? The spirit of innovation many professionals and educators in June 21-27: Spend a week explor- , can help us overcome challenges and these fields believe the United States ensure a prosperous and secure future. should do more now than ever to en- Visual Storytelling Photography Workshops We live in a time of great opportunity, courage students to enter STEM-related and to seize this opportunity, we must fields. at Philmont position ourselves at the cutting edge STEM is part of an initiative the Boy of scientific discovery and technologi- Scouts of America has taken on to en- Imagine thousands of Scouters armed at Philmont Training Center June 7-13, cal innovation. courage the natural curiosity of youth with still cameras and video recorders, 2015. Yet our country is falling behind members and their sense of wonder hunting great Scouting stories to share Photography is a great way to sto- in science, technology, engineering about these fields through existing pro- via social media sites. That’s the vision ries and the BSA has a terrific story to and mathematics (STEM). This is why grams. From archery to welding, Scouts for the Visual Storytelling conference tell. In fact, cameras and Scouting have

Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 32 ptc news ptc news 33 NEW to the Web, and techniques for passing Shooting Sports Complex Under on what they learn. This conference is Construction at PTC intended for those who have at least some experience with still photography Thanks to a generous donation from and/or video, and have a passion for JB and Ann Hodgdon and the Hodg- showing the story of Scouting. don Family Foundation, PTC’s shoot- This exciting conference is a ing sports program is undergoing an been together since the organization’s partnership between the BSA and incredible program expansion. Located earliest days. The first photograph in Canon. Canon provides an incredible on West Cito Road, just west of high- a BSA publication was a 1911 Hand- amount of equipment and instructional way 21, this new complex will serve book advertisement for an easy to use expertise to help each participant feel Training Center and Camping head- camera called the Brownie. Now Scouts prepared to leave ready to build an quarters guests year-round. carry cameras everywhere they go! The army of Scouting storytellers and get As PTC family programs and received and am grateful he took part Visual Storytelling Workshop is de- the word about our great movement Philmont second season programs in shotgun shooting at camp.” signed to help Scouters tell the Scouting to those who haven’t yet come aboard. continue to expand, the chance to offer This new shooting sports complex story with today’s tools and technology. Register today at www.philmonttrain- a more robust shooting sports program will allow additional program experi- Attendees will learn the basics of ingcenter.org! is an exciting opportunity! The goal to ences, not previously possible at PTC’s multimedia storytelling, how to publish build this state of the art new facility old range including rifles, shotgun, became even more real when a par- handguns, sling shots, expanded ticipant from the 2012 PTC Silverado’s archery programs and BB/pellet guns. Looking to become BSA National Camp program made the following comment, In addition to the expanded range “As a mother of a Boy Scout, I worried options, the complex will include a School certified? about my son learning to use a gun in centralized training building, parking his Scout program. Now after taking area, bus turnaround and restrooms. A Take a camp school course at Philmont! part in shooting sports here (PTC), I big thank you to JB and Ann and their understand the safety and training he incredible generosity. The purpose of the BSA’s National March 21-27, 2015: Boy Scout Resi- Camping School program is to provide dent Camp National Camp School. Sec- 2015 PTC Promotional Materials Now adults with a learning experience and tions offered include: Resident Camp training related to the operation of Administration, Camp Ranger and Available council camps. These key nationally Camp Ranger retraining. Are you looking for information to give Additionally, we will send a DVD trained staff members will, in turn, September 13-19, 2015: As part your friends about PTC? Contact PTC containing videos about the Philmont train and supervise other staff person- of the PTC Fall Conference, sections and request a packet of our brand new Training Center and other Philmont nel in their council camping program. will include Climbing Director, COPE promotional materials! These materials programs. Are you going to a local And what better place to receive Director, COPE & Climbing Program include Scouting event? You can also request to this top-notch national BSA camp cer- Manager, and Trek Leader. • 2015 PTC Conference Brochures borrow banners about PTC and other tification than at Philmont? Philmont If you are planning to attend Na- • PTC Posters Philmont programs from the Camp- hosts several courses during the spring tional Camp School in 2015, consider • Family Program Brochures ing Headquarters office. To request and fall each year. March 13-15, 2015: attending a course hosted by Philmont. • National Advanced Youth Leader- promotional materials, please contact Day Camp National Camp To register, please contact your local ship Experience (NAYLE) flyers [email protected] School for all day camp administrators. council. • Philmont Leadership Challenge or call (575) 376-2281. (PLC) flyers

Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 Volume 37, Number 6— December 2014 34 ptc news ptc news 35 philmont history prepared for winter, his men suffered continuing southward until he reached from the extreme Colorado cold. Then Pueblo, Colorado. Crossing the Raton food supplies ran low. In desperation Pass, they finally reached the Canadian A Land of Pioneers the party straggled across the Rockies River in eastern Colfax County and into the San Luis Valley where they crossed through Union County on their erected a stockade. But then the Span- way toward Arkansas. and Robert Livingstone sailed to Paris iards appeared. Placed under arrest, Haphazardly organized and poorly ostensibly to purchase New Orleans, the expedition marched to Santa Fe and directed, Long’s party accomplished where they were able to buy not only eventually south to Chihuahua City little in the way of exploring or map- the mouth of the Mississippi, but also before it was finally allowed to return. ping. Collecting a few botanical and the entire Louisiana Territory stretch- Although often described as a geological specimens, they also climbed ing westward to the Rocky Mountains. failure and its leader criticized for be- Pike’s Peak for the first time. Long is With the opportunity to nearly double ing “lost,” the Pike Expedition opened best remembered for his description of the size of the country, Jefferson ap- up the entire southwest to the United the Great Plains; perhaps developed proved the extensive acquisition. States. His accurate reports of the San- after wandering across eastern Col- Plans immediately went ahead to gre de Cristos and the New Mexican fax County, he wrote that the “Great explore the new territory. While the settlements of the area, paved the way American Desert” was “wholly unfit more famous trek of Lewis and Clark for many other American expeditions for cultivation and of course uninhab- was occurring in the north, several and the eventual opening of the Santa itable by a people depending upon smaller, less successful explorations Fe Trail. agriculture for their subsistence.” To were carried out in the south. To learn A less successful expedition soon his way of thinking, the region was the vague boundaries of Louisiana and followed under Major Stephen H. valuable only as a “range for buffaloes, Excerpted from Out in God’s Country: A the nature of what he had acquired, Jef- Long. Departing Nebraska in 1820, he wild goats, and other wild game.” History of Colfax County, New Mexico ferson sent William Dunbar and George reached the Rockies via the Platte River, By Larry Murphy. Foreword by Hunter from Natchez, Mississippi up Carlos Gutierrez the Washita River through the present Available at toothoftimetraders.com state of Arkansas in 1905. The follow- for $9.95 ing year Thomas Freeman led a second group 600 miles up the Red River until Although a handful of American and he met a contingent of Spanish soldiers French trappers already had reached and was forced to return. Santa Fe, few non-Mexicans probed Even before Freeman had returned, the Southwest before the United States a far more important party headed by acquired Louisiana in 1803. As long Zebulon M. Pike had left the Missouri as enfeebled Spain controlled the vast River. Successfully avoiding the Span- area west of the Mississippi, President iards, he ventured up the Arkansas Thomas Jefferson, like his two prede- River, continuing westward to explore cessors, devoted little attention to it. the “Mexican Mountains” in search of But in 1800 France secured possession the Red River’s headwaters. of Louisiana and threatened to close the Soon the Lieutenant began en- Mississippi River to Americans. countering difficulties which plagued Then Jefferson acted. James Monroe the remainder of the journey. Poorly

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1960s the ripe age of 47, just got hired for my dream job…by an Eagle Scout! It’s still Ken Davis (61-63, 65-66, 80, 91, 95), a paying dividends!.” After Philmont, member of the PSA’s Board of Direc- he graduated from law school, entered tors, has been appointed to the Presi- Coast Guard JAG, then Navy JAG, dent’s Advisory Council of Oglethorpe served in Iraq (where he received the University, his alma mater in Atlanta. Bronze Star) and Italy. He has been Contact: 6320 Phyllis Lane, Alexandria, married 17 years, has three sons in VA 22312. 703-941-9018. davisken- Scouting, was a Transatlantic Council [email protected]. Cubmaster and to Nor- mandy, France. Now active in Circle Metcalf Station in the Summer of 2014 1970s Ten Council, he will be the advisor for In June of 1907 the Cimarron and Northwestern Railway started laying track from a 2015 Philmont Cavalcade. Contact: Cimarron to the Ponil Country. For the next 23 years engines and cars moved timber Rick Touchette (71-72, 74-77), a mem- 7612 Querida Lane, Dallas, Texas 75248. and people from various camps and mills to the markets of Cimarron and beyond. ber of the PSA’s Board of Directors, 214-444-4243. newberry@alumni. By 1930 the timber resources had played out, and the rail lines were abandoned and and executive director of the Albany utexas.net. removed. Diocesan Cemeteries, has been selected Jump ahead to June of 2014, and the walls of the North Ponil Canyon once again for a three-year term as Region 2 Chair 2010s echoed with sounds of “steel striking steel”, as scouts and staff began rebuilding the of the National Catholic Committee on rail line at Metcalf Station. Scouting representing New York state Tristan Wagner (10-14) after graduat- Philmont had long recognized that the railroad history of the ranch had never and Puerto Rico. Contact: PO Box 916, ing from Johnson County Community been given due credit for the significant role it played in the early development and Coeymans, NY 12045. 518-858-6388. College (learning pastry and baking), is commerce of Colfax County. The first sketches and plans of Metcalf Station were de- [email protected]. now in a Chef Apprentice program and veloped as early as 2007 by then-Associate Director of Program, John Van Dreese. cooking up a storm. Contact: 2830 Har- Career moves and economic conditions contributed to a deferment in the develop- 1980s rison Street 2S, Kansas City, MO 64109. ment of the program until 2013. Then, under the leadership of David O’Neill (current 785-393-5394. [email protected]. Associate Director of Program), the project once again gained momentum and came Brad Newberry (85-86) reports “At edu. into fruition for the summer of 2014. This past summer, campers and staff hammered in over 1400 spikes to lay 700 feet of track. Participants were able to visit the “Rail Office” and “Company Store.” PSA Member Awarded Silver Compass The Office clicked and clacked as scouts and scouters used Morse Code on a tele- Andrea Watson, Associate Director of Program and Director of the Philmont graph key, and learned about the life of railroaders and their contribution to develop- Training Center, has been awarded the Silver Compass by the national council ment of the country. Other program features include a blacksmith shop, working of the BSA. The award is rarely given and is awarded on recommendation of pump car, Museum, and evening campfire with period songs and history. the national staff to BSA professionals for service and performance above and Future plans include the laying of several miles of track and construction of an beyond the responsibilities of his/her position. It is the highest recognition authentic depot and water tower. Make your plans now for a 2015 Trek and the op- which is provided to BSA professional staff. High Country adds its kudos for portunity to rebuild a part of Philmont History. this extraordinary recognition of the work done by one of our own. Contact: [email protected]. - Dave Kenneke

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