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  • Alumni Trek to Philmont - "We still talk about the memories" by Kevin Dowling

Alumni Trek to Philmont - "We still talk about the memories" by Kevin Dowling

February 27, 2011 3:16 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


From the Northwoods

Dear Charles L. Sommers Alumni Association Members:

Northern Tier and the Charles L. Sommers Alumni Association (SAA) are excited to be teaming up with the Philmont Staff Association (PSA) and the Sea Base and Friends Association (SBAFA) to promote the 25th Annual PSA Trek – the Silver Trek -- at Philmont Scout Ranch August 7th through 14th, 2011.

This high adventure experience is a true benefit to the whole family. A real challenge in today’s society is passing the beauty of the outdoors to the next generation. We all, in some way, have benefited from our experiences at one of the BSA High Adventure Bases as a youth or in our adult lives.

As the General Manager of Northern Tier, I cherish the days the crews arrive in anticipation of an experience that they have planned for 18 months. It is even more rewarding to watch these same crew members return from a 5 – 10 day experience in the wilderness. The expressions of confidence seen on the faces of young people right off the trail who are tired, dirty and longing for a shower and sauna portray the real benefit of a Trek.

I personally recall these same experiences as I hiked the trails of Philmont on the 2009 PSA Trek with two of my four children. It is hard to say if the Trek was more beneficial to them or to me but we still talk today about the memories we share. Better yet, the interest the other crew members, adult and youth, took ensuring everyone had a great experience is what clings to my memories to this day. Two years later, that Rick, Jeff, Steve, Lee, Doug, Sharon, Alex, Glenn and Joe still ask about my children and what they are doing is amazing.

Take the time now to bring your family on the 25th Annual PSA Trek in 2011. Go to the Alumni Association Website for details. Time doesn’t slow down and we all have the responsibility to engage youth and adults in enjoying and protecting the great outdoors. It also counts as a trail experience for the Triple Crown Award, a real bonus!

Kevin Dowling
General Manager
Northern Tier Programs

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