The first campout of the year is always an opportunity to see the latest changes to our tribe - the kids have grown a foot it seems like over the summer, and there are new faces. We are sad that the Hadley's, longtime Kiowa members, are no longer camping with us, but were also happy to welcome back Kiowa alumni and former Chief Chuck Bosworth and his family! This campout also marked the beginning of Roy Smith's (aka Big Thunder) tenure as Chief, accompanied by his strong-arm money collector, Guido!
The Cornfest campout at the Elks Youth Camp in Umatilla is always fun, and this year was no exception! The kids had fun with archery, swimming, and of course pumpkin carving. What made the weekend even more enjoyable was the great weather, including something we have not had in a long time - a full moon!
Of course, the main event at The Cornfest is The Aims Walk, during which the kids walk to each Aims station and recite the Aims in order to advance to the next station, and ultimately, the council bonfire ceremony. As Federation Fire Keeper this year, I'm happy (and relieved) to say that the bonfire was a success, and we didn't burn down the facility! Here's 45 seconds of video; this fire got really big and extremely hot!!! Also note the full moon above the fire toward the end of the clip - check it out:
Next up, Doe Lake - get your pinewood cars ready to race!!!
Yatahey!!!
Chief Bald Eagle, Federation Fire Keeper
