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Happy Holidays to my Friends of the
North American Frontiersmen. My resolution for the New
Year is to stay healthy enough to get on the ground as
many times as possible. I hope to see many of you as we
continue our journey.
I would like to congratulate Bill
Armstrong as he takes the reins as the new Rocky Mountain
Factor. Also, we have had several advancements. Sharon
Dodge—Woodsman Degree; Dan Miller—Woodsman Degree; Jay
Webb—Woodsman Degree, Christopher Ayres—Apprentice,
and Marites Ayres—Apprentice. These folks have all
become accomplished in skills that have largely become
forgotten by mainstream outdoors men and women. Sometimes
I think we tend to take for granted the massive amount of
learning, time, and determination that it takes to arrive
at the point where they are today. All of you have done
well and deserve the greatest respect. You certainly have
mine.
Instead of rehashing rendezvous past,
it might be productive to talk about plans for 2014. Bill
Armstrong has indicated that it might be possible for him
to host the National in his area. That would be
outstanding event to look forward to. Jay Webb is scouting
for suitable sites in the mid-West. Captain Tom continues
to advocate for monthly encampments here in California. We
had several last year. They are fun, quick, and easy to
prepare for. If possible, try to make a few this year.
Time on the ground is the most valuable teacher that we
have. If we have a place that is reasonably private, where
we can shoot, have a camp fire and practice our skills and
enjoy the companionship of our Brothers and Sisters, we
are good to go. Keep your eyes and ears open for suitable
sites.
That is about all I have to report at
this time. I hope to see and visit with many of you in
2014. You are the Best of the Best, and I count myself
honored to be among you.
“Keep your eyes on the skyline and
your nose to the wind.”
George Thompson, “Short Step”
Chief Factor
NAF # 5
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