February 15, 2026
I've had some interesting responses to my remarks about passing the torch and here is some clarity.
Passing The Torch, Part II
For me, True West has always been personal. I bought my first issue as a kid in Kingman, and it never really let go of me. So when the opportunity came along in 1999, I did something only a history nut would do: I called a few friends, we pulled together the necessary resources, and we purchased True West—along with its sister title Old West and the full bundle of publishing assets—out of Stillwater, Oklahoma, then moved it to Cave Creek, Arizona, where it has prospered ever since.
I’ve had great help from a ton of people who believed in the mission: to keep our love of American history alive. And, to reiterate, I have had the time of my life doing it!
Now it’s time to find the next history nut—with the passion, the fresh energy, and a deep respect for this story-rich magazine—to take the reins and guide True West into its next chapter.
True West was founded in 1953, and the road to 100 years is right around the corner. We don’t need a caretaker. We need new blood and new ideas—someone who honors the heritage, loves the readers, and wants to build what comes next.
Do you—or someone you know—have what it takes to take True West to the century mark?
Ken and I are looking for someone who can take the magazine to the next level. I hope if you are interested, you have someone with the ponies to carry it off, just like I did 27 years ago.
"Large numbers of strangers can cooperate successfully by believing in common myths."
—Simon Sinek
Woah! I knew this day would eventually come. Pass the torch and sit back and relax. Oh, wait. That’s something I’m not sure you can do. But try. Love ya.
ReplyDeleteErik J. Wright comes to mind but I would sure hate to see you go BBB! Maybe Josh from the Wild West Extravaganza? Mark TW Maniac 235
ReplyDeleteOld west history has fascinated me.since.i was a child. I am 48 now. I have no idea how to run a magazine and am not openly volunteering myself but I know that this publication can not die. I will help any way I can. True West was around when I was a child.and needs to be around foray more generations of children ( and afults) who feel that sense of wanderlust that others dont. Plus my last name is Bell. Lol. NMT, thank you Bob Bose Bell and everyone else at True West.
ReplyDeleteThe odds of finding two crazy individuals to pull this off seems as unlikely as finding another authentic Billy the Kid tintype. Having said that I wish you both the best, what you did with the magazine couldn't have been done without a devoted passion. We fans, will never truly understand the sacrifices and stress you went through over the years to provide us with the best American historical magazine on the market. Maybe you'll find another dynamic duo, but the odds of finding the right amount of crazy, passion, artistic ability, and cash seems a daunting task. I hope it happens for you- you deserve it. I'll throw a prayer your way!
ReplyDeleteBradley Ross, you are a profound bastard. That is so touching. Thank you.
DeleteThe tune “Nobody does it better comes to mind” …but of course there will be a next chapter!
ReplyDeleteRide on for now BBB with guns a blazing🔥☄️🔥.
After that, un pequeno tiempo muerto en PP ??
"un pequeno tiempo muerto en PP ??" Is that "A little time left for a dead PeePee?"
ReplyDeleteThe rest of us get to retire, and you do too, but you will be sorely missed. True West is a fantastic magazine, and I look forward to it every month, along with this daily blog. What's next? Will you still do illustrations for True West if asked? Will you write and illustrate another of your own books, or do more individual artwork? Or continue to do your blog, travel more, go see the kids and grand kids more? Because I can't see you sitting still for long.
ReplyDeleteThank you Gold Lady. Yes, I have big plans for new books and more artwork. Thanks for asking.
ReplyDelete