Page 1 SERVING BOTH SIDES OF THE ROAD Summer 2019 Showing Off PTC Amenities Eases Spouse Apprehension Mark Twain’s 1872 book, “Roughing It,” about his Western journeys hard- ly describes Philmont Training Cen- ter’s (PTC) facilities. Yet many spouses hesitate leaving civilization behind and “roughing it” in Philmont Country. Bathrooms may head the list when it comes to concerns about PTC ac- commodations. Fortunately, PTC lucked out when high winds damaged the old bathroom buildings in 2012. They were replaced with new facilities featuring lockable private rooms with a shower, sink, mirror, toilet and changing area. The buildings are centrally located, and Philmont staff keep them meticulously clean. Fami- ly shower units have more room for Click here for a video on PTC housing. those to attend their small children . Staying in PTC’s canvas condos, as be provided so that infants can sleep they are affectionately known, pro- in their parent’s tents. FAQs vides real twin beds with mattresses, Internet and cell phone access are Question: What kind of bedding Nicholas Hutchinson a chair, wardrobe, and electricity for should I bring to PTC? lights and recharging electronics. available, so guests aren’t isolated Participants need to bring their own from the modern world. Spouses Answer: Although daytime highs Is New PTC Director bedding which can add a touch of always have the option of putting can be quite warm, nights in the high home. PTC does have extra blankets down their phone and relaxing on the country of Nicholas Hutchinson has been creation of Scouts BSA. Villa’s Greensward while letting (PTC) can get comfortably chilly. named as the new Director of the to loan out if the nights get chilly. Philmont’s wonderful Counseling staff Nick has a Bachelors of Fine Arts in You should bring a warm sleeping Philmont Training Center, effective Those cool, dry nights have a side take care of their children. bag (rated to 40 0) or sheets and May 15, 2019. Theatre Education with a minor in Speech Communications from Utah benefit - no bugs! You can point out Speaking of Counselors, the PTC warm blankets along with a pillow. Nick is an Eagle who began State University as well as a Master that the tents do not have mosquito family program itself is a great selling PTC does have extra blankets to his career in Utah National of Arts in Theatre Production from netting because there are rarely any. point to spouses concerned that loan out. Parks Council in 2012 as a district Central Washington University. His The cafeteria food at PTC is definitely they’ll be struck caring for kids while Question: How many bears and executive and camp director. From wife, Candace, is currently serving a cut above what Scouts get over in their Scouter is in a conference. other large animals are at Philmont? there he was promoted to the Direc- as a District Executive and Camp Camping HQ. Entrees like chicken During the day, family program coun- Will I get to see them at PTC? tor of Camping in 2018 at Great Salt Director in the Utah National Parks fried steak, pork chops and roast selors will be taking such great care Lake Council with direct responsibil- Council. They served as Wolf den beef, along with DIY salads and a of them that they may not want to go Answer: Philmont has 100-150 ity for the operations of five council leaders for their son’s pack and vegetarian option make for good home at the end of their stay.! bears, 300 elk, and 40-60 antelope properties. He has attended and serve on the committee for their eating in the High Country. Peanut and over 1,500 deer. Deer often staffed many training programs in daughter’s troop. butter and jelly are always available Many spouses make friends fast with can be seen grazing around the PTC the BSA including Junior Leadership so picky kids never go without. others at PTC, especially if they par- grounds. Antelope are often seen Training, , Philmont In his spare time, Nick enjoys play- Weekly ice cream socials and cobbler ticipate in the Silverado program. on the roads into camp, and the Training Center Conferences and ing games of all kinds and painting nights keep everyone’s sweet tooth The Silverados program is for adult buffalo herd browses in the fields National Camping School. miniature scale models. He also satisfied. family members to experience a wide between PTC and Cimarron. Bear loves hiking, backpacking and camp- sighting are very infrequent. Nick has had the unique opportunity ing. He also enjoys visiting the Spouses may also be concerned variety of adventure at around PTC. of developing and changing the national parks of the west, with his about their children’s sleeping accom- A wide range of activities that may Question: Can you ship a box to a camping operations in the Great Salt family. modations. They will be in the same include Villa and Museum tours, local scout on a Trek? Lake Council during the departure of type of tents right next to their history, Indian arts programs, pottery- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Please welcome Nick, Candace, making demonstrations, guided na- Answer: It’s not possible to get mail Shiloh age 12, Kaelen age 9, and parent’s so they can be cared for ture walks, COPE, fishing, and trips to Scouts while they are on a Trek. -day Saints to better meet the pro- easily. Some parents split duties so However, they can get a box or mail gramming needs of all units and the Annaleigh age 4 into the Philmont that one can be in each of their kid’s to nearby towns such as Red River or family. PƧ Angel Fire. Silverados carpool to any at Camping HQ at the beginning and tents for further assurance. Cribs can hike or activity away from PTC. end of their trip. Send it to: By the end of their week, they’ll all be Scout’s Name, Expedition Number reluctant to leave and will join with 47 Caballo Rd National Outdoor Conference the rest of their family saying, “I want Cimarron, NM 87714 Inspires Unforgettable Experiences to go back to Philmont!” PƧ PƧ volunteers tion: , the leg- executives, directors of support ser- and professionals are relentless in endary Scouting paradise in New vices, program directors, rangers, Pat Wrath Named as New their pursuit of outdoor programs that Mexico, which proudly calls itself the camp directors, council presidents are exhilarating, enriching and safe. “world’s largest camp.” and council program vice presidents. Western Region Coordinator Anyone who chairs a committee on Pat Wrath is the new Western Re- That explains the popularity of Here’s the basics: gional Ambassador Coordinator to the National Outdoor Conference council and district camping, conser- WhatWhatWhat:What 2019 National Outdoor Confer- vation, aquatics, COPE/climbing, or take over from Dennis Kampa. Pat held every other year at Philmont shooting sports should also plan to was spotlighted in last Summer’s Scout Ranch. This September, volun- ence Update. teers and professionals from across be there, as should properties chair- WhenWhenWhen:When The conference opens at 1 persons and other volunteers or Pat is in ’s Aloha Council and the country will travel to the moun- p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 25, and professionals responsible for delivery knows the challenges of having to tains of to discover the ends after breakfast on Sunday, of outdoor programs. coordinate activities over long dis- latest methods for delivering unfor- Sept. 29. That’s three-and-a-half tances and where driving is not an gettable outdoor experiences. days and four nights. Reprinted from Bryan on Scouting. option. She brings a wealth of Used by permission. PƧ Philmont knowledge and her own They’ll select from more than 100 WhereWhere: Philmont Scout Ranch in personal enthusiasm to the Coordi- elective sessions, hear inspiring key- New Mexico, which proudly calls nator role. note speakers, check out the latest itself the “world’s largest camp.” Click here for the outdoor gear, connect with fellow Dennis Kampa, our previous west- Scouters, and return home equipped Who’s invitedinvited: Anyone involved in conference ern regional coordinator, will be and energized. outdoor program delivery at any level devoting his time and energies to of the program. That means Scout registration page. helping Philmont with several spe- And they’ll do it all at an ideal loca- cial projects. PƧ Page 2 PHILMONT AMBASSADOR UPDATE Summer 2019 Ambassadors Rendezvous With 3,000 Scouts in Minnesota Every four years there are really im- council Ambassadors to help out,” for presenting portant gatherings: The Olympics, said Tom. NSC Ambassadors Vicki the Philmont the World Scout , the World and Jeff Jurek and Moose Skolarzyk Scout Ranch Cup, and the Camp Ripley Rendez- made the 100 mile trip from the Twin experience at vous. Cities to join the fun. the at Camp Ripley. Alt- In May, the Central Minnesota Coun- “We also got the word out to other hough the 38 cil held its quadrennial area-wide Ambassadors through our Central degrees, wind, “Rendezvous” at the National Guard Region Coordinator, Rob Welander,” rain we had Camp Ripley in central Minnesota. added Tom. “Ken Rudney from may be the The event is open to Scouts BSA near Chicago more the Troops and Crews from heard the call and made the drive all norm for across Central Region Area 1. Five- the way up from . He did a Northern Can- thousand Scouts and Scouters from great job inspiring Scouts with stories ada than North Dakota, Minnesota, South on how he did a Super Strenuous Minnesota Dakota and Wisconsin converged on Trek as a 13-year-old.” Tom’s Philmont flag this time of banner drew Scouts the Camp. Even Canadian Scouts year! We had from Manitoba joined in the activities. Ken not only got to experience the to the display tent. jamboree, he also used the opportuni- fun doing our Located in the middle of Minnesota, ty to learn more about promoting best to promote a great adventure.” Camp Ripley is a 53,000 acre region- Moose Skolarzyk, Ken Rudney and Tom Baltutis used the large Phimont from the NSC Ambassadors. Tom commented that this was an al center with state-of-the-art facilities Philmont map to encourage Trek Participation at Ripley Rendezvous. He also brought along his computer important opportunity because it to support the training needs of mili- to show Philmont’s videos and had reached many levels of Scouts re- tary and civilian agencies. venture program featured firearms Because High Adventure is the main his display board with photos of his garding Philmont High Adventure demos, displays of fishing, hunting theme of the event, the Philmont Philmont experiences which added programs. “During the morning, we The main Ripley Rendezvous attrac- and camping, rocket launches, and a exhibit fit right in. his personal touch. tion is hands-on high-adventure expe- Voyageurs Reenactment Camp to were talking to older scouts who had riences like climbing, rappelling, run- keep Scouts engaged throughout the Neighboring Although the weather was less than been to Philmont or had plans for a ning obstacle courses and zip-lining weekend. At the Action Center there (NSC) Ambassador Tom Baltutis ideal, their Philmont display was shel- trek in 2019 and 2020. In the after- through the forest. were demonstrations of EMS skills, worked with Central Minnesota Coun- tered inside an Army Base-X tent noon, we were talking to 11- and 12- military equipment displays, and out- cil Staff to set up the Philmont dis- which kept them all dry. Tom brought year old scouts about how they will Simultaneous with these, a high ad- play. his new Philmont flag banner so that be the leaders of their Troop in a few door skills training. years. They’ll be the ones who will “I knew the Ripley Rendezvous was the tent was highly visible to all at the Midway area. be pushing to go to that Philmont high definitely too big an event for one adventure camp they first heard about person to cover, so I recruited fellow Moose observed. “It was a great day at the Ripley Rendezvous.” PƧ

Ambassador Profile Julia Farr Teams Up, Carries the Message to Nation’s Capitol Julia Farr, one of the Ambassadors to the National Capitol Area Council, knows it takes a group effort to cover a big area. She along with Danielle Ballantine, Jason Bacheler and Arden Dougan form a dynamic team with a year-round schedule of promotions. Starting in January at their OA Lodge Banquet through December at the Trainer’s Edge Conference, they keep Displays at OA events encourage active Scouters to promote Phimont constantly promoting Philmont when- to their Troops. ever they can. Kristin Chioma was also part of the team until she moved to Boston. Julie explains their strategy. “We Opportunities Abound to share promotional materials among Ambassadors to focus more on OA Reach Scouts, Scouters High Adventure and OA Trail Crew opportunities at OA events. We focus Scouts are active people. So to get • Conclaves more on NAYLE and PLC opportuni- the word out to them about Philmont, • OA Winter Events ties at NYLT and Wood Badge cours- well, you have to get out to them! • OA Area and Regional Confer- es, and we focus on PTC conferences Julia Farr is all smiles as she poses with her favorite landmark at at all events.” District Roundtables are but one way ences Philmont Scout Ranch. to spread the message. These are Another approach is to get to know She believes personal contact is the usually attended by Scouters who Campmasters in your Council. These key to recruiting others. “I find shar- thrilled when her son joined Scouting Julia is indeed an ardent Ambassador. as a Tiger Cub. She took the oppor- probably have heard about Philmont experienced Scouters probably have ing photos, talking to people one-on- “I have had incredible experiences Treks, but may less familiar with been to Philmont and would be glad one, and making personal invitations tunity to expand her Scouting knowledge and brought him along with the PTC family program as a Philmont Training Center (PTC) and to hand out literature to Troops on have been most successful.” She youth and serving on PTC program Individual Opportunities. Cub Leaders weekend campouts. You might also explains that sharing her experiences whenever she attended PTC. He progressed from Cowpoke to Deputy, staff along with my Eagle Scout older at Roundtables may not know that provide them and the camp with a and letting Scouters know they can brother, as well as being an attendee they and their families can attend PTC display to bring to camp. bring the whole family to Philmont is a Sidewinder, Trailblazer I and II and Mountain Man, which means that he at many PTC conferences (including even at this early stage in their Scout- great recruiting method. Philmont Leadership Challenge) and ing careers. You can also check with your Council and Julia attended a lot of confer- Camping Committee about setting up The National Capital Area Council is ences. As an older Scout, her son as a PTC conference faculty member. Other events that attract Scouters are a permanent Philmont Display at local one of the largest around, serving came back to PTC to attend NAYLE I want to share my excitement for or long-term Scout Camps over 57,000 youth and 18,000 volun- Philmont and encourage all Scout • University of Scouting or Pow and be on NAYLE Staff. He went on teers in 20 districts spread across to became an Eagle scout and is now leaders, especially new leaders, to Wow Leaders can be eager to northern Virginia, Maryland, the Dis- create awe-inspiring memories with • Council Coordinated Committee learn more about the Scouting pro- a certified paramedic/law enforcement trict of Columbia and even the US officer. their families at Philmont!” PƧ Event gram. m Some places to meet them Virgin Islands. Julia became an Am- • College of Commissioner Ser- are bassador in 2012 when the Council vice/Science • Cub Resident Camp appointed her and two others to fill • District and Council Recognition this important role. Ambassador Ranks Dinners • District and Council It was a natural fit because Philmont “Be Prepared” by checking with event • Cub Day and Overnight Camps is in Julia’s blood. Her father would Continue to Grow organizers about their programs to • Webelos Woods take his entire family to PTC when he Our goal of having a Philmont Ambassador in every council gets closer see if your display is appropriate. You It’s vital to provide information about attended training. Her Family Camp as we continue to welcome new members to our group. Please wel- don’t want to spend your time stuck in adventures include being Mountain come these new members! We hope to see them soon at the Ambas- a corner with no one to talk to. family activities at PTC to Cub Lead- ers. When they see the activities that Woman. “My first back country expe- sador I Seminar at PTC in July. There’s still time to enroll! PƧ It is also very important to reach their children and spouses can enjoy, rience in the 1980’s still resonates Scouts themselves, especially those in they are more likely to consider PTC when I share my stories about rock Troop leadership positions. You can as a family vacation rather than a climbing and rappelling at Cimar- Name Region Council inspire them to consider a Philmont another Scout training mission. roncito, pole climbing and star gazing Trek during their upcoming Troop high at Crater Lake, blacksmithing and Michael Anderson WR Utah National Parks Council adventure planning meeting. One “Rule of Thumb” in advertising is singing around a campfire at Black that it takes at least seven contacts to Mountain and enjoying a chuck wagon Gwen Goodrich CR Greater St. Louis Council Consider being out with Scouts at make an impression on a consumer. meal and roping at Miranda,” recalls these events: So consider that it will take as many Julia. Michael Martens WR Las Vegas Area Council touches to get people excited about • District Philmont. Fortunately, Philmont is a Later as a young mother, she was David Raihle CR Chippewa Valley Council • Council Camporees great product to sell! PƧ Page 3 PHILMONT AMBASSADOR UPDATE Summer2019 Provides Backbone of Philmont Country

The Sangre de Cristo Mountains (Spanish for "Blood of Christ") are the southernmost subrange of the . They are located in south- ern and northern New Mexi- co in the . The moun- tains run from Poncha Pass in South- , trending southeast and south, ending at Glorieta Pass, Cimarroncito’s terrain provide challenging ascents. (Philmont Photo) southeast of Santa Fe, New Mexico. The mountains contain a number of Focus on the Backcountry fourteen thousand foot peaks in the Colorado portion, as well as all the peaks in New Mexico which are over Cimarroncito Rocks! thirteen thousand feet. Elevation 8,156 ft. 6 – Activity Stop The name of the mountains may refer Description 8 - Overnight to the occasional reddish hues ob- 10 – Overnight served during sunrise and sunset Photo use licensed under CC BY-NC-ND Cimarroncito is located in a broad 14 – Activity Stop valley. Most of the campsites are when alpenglow occurs, especially 18 – Overnight when the mountains are covered with Aspenglow, the reddish hue on the mountains at dawn and dusk, north and west of the main cabin. All 20 – Overnight inspired the naming of the Sangre de Cristo Range. are excellent. The rock climbing and snow. Although the particular origin of rappelling are up the ridge to the Keith Nelson, Associate Director of the name is unclear, it has been in in New Mexico, as well as very little water and has an annual east of camp. Camping remarks “Philmont’s third- use since the early 19th century. Be- precipitation of seven to eight inches party rock climbing trainers and in- fore that time the terms "La Sierra some smaller wilderness areas, such Activities as Latir Peak Wilderness. The Great (180 to 200 mm). This region is also spectors love our programs for the Nevada", "La Sierra Madre", "La Sier- Sand Dunes National Park and Pre- home to the Culebra Micro-basin Rock climbing, rappelling, and respect we give to the sport and the ra", and "The Snowies" (used by Eng- serve lies on the southwest side of the which has a rich agricultural history in bouldering. pristine condition of our physical lish speakers) were used. According features. Vendors and visitors from to tradition, "Sangre de Cristo" were mountains in Colorado. the state of Colorado. Water the industry truly appreciate that we the last words of a Catholic priest who Subranges Taos Mountains Purified water is plentiful. introduce many thousands of young was killed by Indians. Sometimes the The Sangre de Cristo Mountains are The Taos Mountains span the western Nearby Camps people to climbing who never would archaic Spanish spelling "Christo" is have had the notion or experience used. divided into various subranges, de- lobe of the range from Costilla Creek Hunting Lodge is just over a mile to otherwise. scribed here from north to south. Use in the north to Tres Ritos in the south. the south. Land management and recreation of the terms "Sangre de Cristo Range" They include the highest point in New “The Philmont seasonal staff opens overview and "Sangre de Cristo Mountains" is Mexico, Wheeler Peak, at 13,161 feet TrailsTrailsTrails many doors for the young trekkers inconsistent and either may refer to (4,011 m), which is part of the Head north through Aspen Springs as they traverse our backcountry, Much of the mountains are within either the northernmost subrange, the Wheeler Peak Wilderness. Other nota- to Ute Gulch Commissary for food and it’s always neat to see which various National Forests: the Rio southernmost subrange, or the moun- ble peaks include Pueblo Peak, which pickup, or bear south through Hid- doors they chose to walk through. Grande and San Isabel in Colorado, tains as a whole. at 12,305 feet (3,751 m) rises dramati- den Valley and Window Rock for I’ve learned time and again to never and the Carson and Santa Fe in New cally above Taos Pueblo, and Latir one of the best hikes at Philmont. underestimate the drive and passion Mexico. These publicly accessible Sangre de Cristo Range Peak, at 12,708 feet (3,873 m). Wil- South goes to Hunting Lodge and in someone’s heart. I’ve seen the areas are popular for hunting, camp- The Sangre de Cristo Range, the liams Lake is located below Wheeler either Clarks Fork (south) sparks we ignite at Philmont grow ing, hiking, mountain biking, back- largest and most northerly subrange Peak in the Wheeler Peak Wilderness. or Cyphers Mine (west). Northwest into incredible lifelong goals and packing, climbing, and cross-country of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, heads toward Sawmill Canyon. accomplishments. We really do and downhill skiing. Taos Ski Valley lies just to the west of runs directly along the east side of the Wheeler Peak. Much of the central Itineraries Stopping at Cimar- ‘change lives’ and I get to see it The mountains include two large wil- Rift, extending southeast EVERY DAY.” PƧ portion of the Taos Mountains are on roncito derness areas, the Sangre de Cristo from Poncha Pass for about 75 miles Taos Pueblo land. As viewed from Wilderness in Colorado and the Pecos (120 km) through south-central Colo- rado to La Veta Pass, approximately Taos, they are locally called "Taos 20 miles (32 km) west of Walsenburg. Mountain." They form a high ridge separating the The southern portion of the Taos ‘Cito Thrills With Cliff Hanging Fun on the west from the Mountains, between Palo Flechado watershed of the Arkansas River on Pass and Tres Ritos (U.S. Route 64 By Matthew Baide, PhilNews Staff the east. and NM Route 518), is lower and less Writer, PhilNews dramatic than the northern section, Crestones Cimarroncito is a place to experience with its high point being Cerro Vista, the ‘awesome, awe-inspiring, general The Crestones are a group of four 11,939 ft (3,639 m). The Fernando athletic beauty’ that is rock climbing. 14,000+ foot (4,268+ m) peaks Mountains are a small subrange lying “We practice climbing rocks, we climb () in the Sangre de Cristo in this section, just south of US Route rocks, we smell rocks, we practice Range above Crestone, Colorado. 64. climbing plastic rocks, we think about Spanish Peaks Cimarron Range climbing rocks, we talk about climbing rocks,” Camp Director Jada McGirt The Spanish Peaks are a pair of The Cimarron Range lies across the said. mountains, West Spanish Peak, Moreno Valley to the east of the Taos 13,626 ft (4,153 m), and East Spanish Mountains. It is a lower range, with its The camp has six climbs and seven Peak, 12,860 ft (3,920 m), located in highest point being Baldy Mountain at rappels. There are climbs and rappels southwestern Huerfano County, Colo- 12,441 ft (3,792 m). Philmont Scout that are easy, and then there are the rado. The Spanish Peaks were desig- Ranch lies on the east side of the difficult climbs. Itinerary 15 is the nated a National Natural Landmark in Cimarron Range. climbing special trek, and at the end 1976 as one of the best-known exam- of the trek, they climb at Cimarroncito. ples of igneous dikes. The mountains Rincon Mountains The most popular climb is ‘hang these can be seen from as far as 133 mi This is a minor subrange, significantly from your toe hitch.’ It is a slab climb (214 km) to the north from Colorado lower than the rest of the Sangre de and a chance for Scouts to practice Springs, 50 mi (80 km) to the west Cristos; it lies east of the southern- mock leading, which is when they from Alamosa, Colorado, 65 mi (105 most portion of the Taos Mountains. km) to the south from Raton, New climb up the rock and practice climb- Santa Fe Mountains ing ahead of their protection. (Philmont Photo) Mexico, and 85 mi (137 km) to the east from La Junta, Colorado. Rounding out the Sangre de Cristo There is a bolt about every six feet on Mountains are the Santa Fe Moun- the rock. The climber climbs up the rock training this year was far superi- Program Counselor Jeff Schritzlinger Culebra Range tains, which include all peaks south of rock, and at each bolt they place a or,” McGirt said. “Just the ability to enjoys the bouldering gym the most The Culebra Range runs almost due NM Route 518. This group lies near quick draw, which is a piece of pro- talk about advanced climbing tech- at Cimarroncito. He has three years north and south, with its northern limit Santa Fe and surrounds the Pecos tection. There is always a belayer at niques, talking about anchors, setting of climbing experience from working at La Veta Pass in Colorado, and its Wilderness, which protects the source the bottom with an anchor at the top natural anchors with the staff, teach- at a climbing wall at Ohio University. southern limit at Costilla Creek, just watershed of the . The for safety during this because it is just ing mock leading, it’s pretty fantastic.” “I can give actual instruction on climb- south of Big Costilla Peak in New peaks include , 13,102 ft practice. ing, I can set routes, I can climb The staff was trained for three days, hard,” Schritzlinger said. “I can actual- Mexico. Its highest point is Culebra (3,993 m), as their highest point. Oth- “You can’t do that anywhere else in with every staff member having prior ly instruct on the actual climbing tech- Peak at 14,047 ft (4,282 m), which is er notable peaks are Philmont and it is really hard any- climbing experience. Program Coun- nique and play games with Scouts notable for being the only (12,622 ft) (3,847 m) and Jicarita where else in the Boy Scouts to be selor Megan Sechler has been climb- and stuff.” in Colorado which is on private land. Peak (12,835 ft) (3,912 m). The Pecos able to do that,” McGirt said. “It is ing for about seven years, climbing in Climbers wishing to ascend Culebra Wilderness is crossed by many trails fantastic.” Every crew that has come Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Flori- He likes climbing Dirt.0 the most must pay a fee and the number of and is popular for backpacking and for through and participated in the climb da. This is her first year working at because it is a vertical face which climbers per year is limited. It is also fishing in its high alpine lakes. has enjoyed it, and only about 50 Philmont. makes it more challenging. The climb- the most southerly fourteener in the U.S. Rockies. Standing to the east of [Wikipedia contributors. "Sangre de crews during the summer will experi- “I love seeing the youths faces when ing program has developed a lot Cristo Mountains." Wikipedia, The ence it. since it started and hopefully will the main crest are the two prominent they go, ‘dude, check out this rock,’” continue to develop into the future. Spanish Peaks (West: 13,626 ft Free Encyclopedia . Wikipedia, The The second most popular climb is Sechler said. “What isn’t there to like (4,153 m), East: 12,860 ft (3,920 m)). Free Encyclopedia, 11 Dec. 2018. about Cito? We have this gorgeous “Philmont has stepped into the future Web. 20 Mar. 2019.] Dirt.0, and both of the most popular this year,” McGirt said. PƧ These peaks were important land- climbs are 5.8 difficulty, which is the view, about 200 people coming marks on the mountain branch of the through here a day, always busy.” PƧ most difficult beginner range. “The Santa Fe Trail. The bioregion receives Page 4 PHILMONT AMBASSADOR UPDATE Summer 2019 Chaplin’s Corner: Presence Staff Promotions, Changes From PhilNews by Fr. Don K. Hummel Through shared frustration and exhilaration. Philmont may be timeless, but Staff Fran RomeroRomero, Catholic Chaplain On dust-dry paths and bare-rock summits, is always on the move. Along with a assistant camping new PTC Director, here are a few From the lofty mountain peaks’ purple grandeur, Through the shaken-down, arm-in-arm comradeship of the registrar, is mov- trail more changes that have taken place. ing down the To the lush, secret dusty-emerald valleys. Let’s wish them the best of luck in From silver sage carpeted wildflower meadows, You are personally and intimately present. their new roles. road to admin as To ice-blue water teeming with glistening life and energy. In the sudden, unexpected trail turn, That reveals that life- Team Leader, From whispering pines and shimmering aspens, transforming, Chuck Enloe, long-time Administration To limitless vistas that see into forever. Never-be-the same again glimpse and Housekeep- Your divine face. Philmont cowboy, -You are powerfully and richly present. has been promot- ing. In cool, crisp morning’s light, We boldly, hopefully reach And touch - ed to livestock John Celley, director of conservation, Scorching, oven-hot midday foreman to re- Surprise explosion of unrestrained thunder and lightning, And we know profoundly. place recently resigned in December to take a new With the drenching afternoon showers and hail, You are mystically, eternally present. retired Ben Var- position in Wisconsin. He played a And soothing soft evening breezes around a languid camp- We listen, gas. key role in Philmont’s fire recovery fire. With the ear of the hear. efforts. We see, Heather Bermu- You are lovingly and reassuringly present. With the eye of the soul. dezdezdez,dez recent sea- Michael Johnson, IT manager, re- In the eagles’ soaring, gliding flight, Those who have not, sonal staffer in signed to assume a new position Or cheerful squirrel and chipmunk chatter. Cannot. MPS and the with a national tech company. He’ll In harmonious hymn of bear, antelope, deer and . Those who have, backcountry, has continue to live in Cimarron and Or ink-dark, starlit symphony of evening vespers. Are certain. signed on as a work from his home there. - You are gracefully and gently present - You are Presence. personnel assis- PƧ Under strain and sweat of packstrap, tant in the Camp- PƧ ing Office. Out of Eden Project Walking with Intention

The Philmont experience is filled with new people, places, and programs that will enhance Scouts’ lives for many years to come. For over 80 years, more than a million participants and staff members have had the op- portunity to share their Philmont expe- riences through letters, pictures, sto- ries, and journals. Much like the news cycle of today, the ever-changing landscape of the internet has trans- formed how we share our experiences and stories. Quick posts, likes, and Public Domain: creative commons, wikimedia “trending” articles often fill the voids of time that were once spent in deep/ intentional thought, observance, and Paul Salopek (left) and Scout Christopher Sherman (yellow Hat) talk with some reflection. residents (and a camel) during their adventure. Photo by Chris Sawyer. Prevailing summer patterns cause regular afternoon storms at Philmont and high mountains of the Southwest. While many news outlets follow the and places along the trail and enjoy re Journal to make entries as they navi- “trending” model, there are still -experiencing their journeys through gate across the ranch. Their time at thoughtful organizations that focus on the lens of our participants. Philmont will be defined in many ways Afternoon Forecast: authentic journalism, impartial report- that they will discover and redefine ing, and real issues that are being During Philmont Treks, Paul reminds over the course of the summer, but faced by people around the world us of how journaling can help each of what they do with their life is the true Rain, Naturally! today. Their hopes are to inform/ us be “more observant, more atten- discovery that will take discipline and Thunder Ridge didn’t get its name for Trekkers to don raingear and hastily educate the public, create collabora- tive, and more in the moment” as we continual refinement. Philmont hopes nothing. Nor do Philmont Rangers set up camp. Those familiar with the tive action, and be a catalyst for navigate our walks in life. During his that each Scout will use their time an teach the importance of getting off pattern know the importance of change to improve the quality of life intentional walk, he is recorded opportunity to be intentional about high ridges during the mid-afternoon breaking camp early, hitting the trail, for people/places in need. One of the “milestones” every 100 miles where how they spend each day, treat each just for fun. Philmont veterans know getting to their next camp and set- leading nonprofit organizations with he documents his location, a photo/ person, and plan their next steps in that the daily summer forecast in the that focus is the Pulitzer Center on video, and a sound recording of what life. Sangre de Cristo mountains is “good Crisis Reporting. he is feeling and thinking at the time. chance of afternoon thunderstorms,” The Pulitzer Center is currently work- He has challenged all of us to stop PƧ and they keep their raingear handy. and record milestones this summer ing on a project with National Geo- and says that when a few have been From May to September, the weather graphic Fellow, Paul Salopek. In 2013, Paul began a seven-year journey recorded, “you get to see the world conditions in the American Southwest unfold before you, in a stop - motion cause afternoon storms to rise, walking around the world in an effort Philmont Ambassador to retrace the migration of our oldest fashion, you get to see the small Newsletter seemingly by magic. However, natu- changes happening before your eyes.” ral forces at work are to blame. ancestor’s – from their birthplace in Editor: Tom Baltutis Ethiopia to the Middle East, Asia, What could some of those milestones [email protected] The reason: The North American North America, and on to the southern look like for you and how might they Monsoon. tip of South America. On his Out of unfold into something more? Jim Ellis (National Coordinator) [email protected] This weather pattern is one of five Eden Walk “he is engaging with the major stories of our time – from cli- • Motivating our participants to other global seasonal rain phenome- overcome challenges and helping Rob Welander (Central Region) na called monsoons. The others mate change to technological innova- ting up before the daily monsoon tion, from mass migration to cultural them work together to succeed. hoacphilmontambassdor occur in Australia, South America, strikes. @gmail.com Africa and Asia. The word monsoon survival – by walking alongside the • Being caught in a thunderstorm itself comes from the Arabic mawsim The North American Monsoon Sys- people who inhabit these headlines and watching the weather clear. Pad Wrath (Western Region) meaning “season” or “time of year.” tem produces most of the annual every day. Moving at the slow beat of [email protected] his footsteps, Paul is seeking the • Watching the sun sink into the And it’s aptly named because almost rainfall over the southwestern United horizon from a favorite spot. every day during summer season at States. quieter, hidden stories of people who GW Bell (Southern Region) rarely make the news.” • [email protected] Philmont, it rains in the afternoon. The overarching trend is that as tem- Hiking up Sawmill Canyon or Working as an educational partner, over a snow-covered Baldy Dave Lyons (Northeast Region) Starting in early July, hot desert air peratures warm globally, monsoon Mountain. rises over the Mexican Plateau and rainfall will increase. While this may the Pulitzer Center identified Philmont [email protected] American Desert Southwest as these help relieve the Philmont area from Scout Ranch as an ideal place to tell • Laughing and telling stories dur- areas heat up every day. This rising future droughts, other weather pat- Paul’s story due to our excellence in ing dinner at a trail camp. This newsletter is published quar- youth development, interpretive pro- terly for the benefit of Philmont air causes an area of high pressure terns and the varied southwestern • know as a subtropical ridge to form landscape means that both periods of gramming, and extended day trekking. Enjoying moments of complete Ambassadors in the spirit of the over the area where severe drought and consistent storms Philmont’s physical location alongside solitude and reflection. Scout Oath and . Eve- Utah, Colorado, Arizona and New can occur. the Santa Fe Trail is also a unique • ry effort is made to provide accu- component of the partnership. Deeply thinking about how you rate and complete information. Mexico meet. One of these seasonal weather varia- might make a difference in the However, the newsletter publisher The rising air brings in low level tions last year caused the dryness Since 1938 Philmont has shared the world. does not guarantee that there will moisture from the Gulf of California. that led to the fires that plagued rich history of commerce and conflict • Realizing that you have fully be no errors, nor does it make Additionally, upper level moisture much of the west. On the other that unfolded on the heavily traveled seized each moment in these claims, promises or guarantees from the Gulf of Mexico blows in, hand, increased rainfall during 2018 trade route. Similar to Paul’s jour- New Mexico mountains. about the accuracy, complete- transported by high level easterly in other areas caused widespread naling efforts, back in 1846 Susan ness, or adequacy of the contents winds. flooding in Australia, Africa, North Magoffin slowly documented her ad- In the absence of “trending” likes and of the newsletter and expressly Korea, Nigeria, Japan, India, Sri ventures across the plains, through posts in the backcountry, Paul encour- disclaims liability for errors and All this moisture condenses in the Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago, and the forts and into the oldest capital ages Scouts to slow down and fully omissions in the contents of this mountain elevations forming the after- Viet Nam as well as in parts of the city of the American southwest. We embrace their “milestones.” Scouts newsletter. noon thunderstorms and causing U.S. PƧ continue to share stories of people can use the Passport to Adventure