Report for Monday, July 31, 2000

Well, we all just returned from the second show of the conference, the History and Recognition Show. At this event, the National Order of the Arrow Committee presented approximately 35 Distinguished Service Awards (DSA) to deserving Arrowmen. This is the only Scouting award that can be given to a youth, adult, and a Scouting Professional, and is awarded for outstanding service on a Sectional, Regional or National Level. The full list of recipients can be found on the National OA Website.

Immediate Past National Chief, Will Parker, receiving the Distinguished Service Award

Mr. Maher was a bit cranky earlier today. He went to the show tonight and was inspired to reach greater Scouting and OA heights (as were we all). It seems that a journal written in 1915 by a scout at Treasure Island Scout Camp (Edward Evans) was unearthed. This scout was inducted into the Order of the Arrow in the year 1917 at Treasure Island by E. Urner Goodman himself. This document was the central point of tonight's show. It filled many gaps in the understanding of the early history of our Order, and filled us with the Spirit of the Arrow and Scouting in general.

Both shows were excellent. Marty is glad to see both older and younger Arrowmen having a good time, and learning how other Lodges do things in the training sessions. He is looking forward to a good remainder of the week, and a safe trip home.

Some of our contingent went to see "Staging the Vigil" in the morning. This training session was provided for those wishing to evaluate their own Lodge's Vigil Honor induction experiences. After careful evaluation, it has been determined that Shu-Shu-Gah Lodge's Vigil experiences are extremely effective, and represent many of the great ideas presented at the training session.

Scott Schmidt, Northeast Region Chief at the VIA Luncheon

Ian, Vinny and Colin attended the NOAC Trade-o-Ree, and in the greatest shock since finding Stu Nemkowitz yesterday, the two biggest patch enthusiasts walked out empty handed! Needless to say, they were very disappointed.

Timmy and Colin were fortunate enough to be invited to attend the Very Important Arrowmen luncheon with the National Chief, National Vice-Chief, the Region Chiefs, and several members of the National OA Committee. Arriving late, Tim was there just in time to hear the Jordan Hitchens' (National Vice-Chief) speech. Colin sat with Jordan, and was able to meet Lodge Chiefs from the other various Lodges across the country.

Will, Phil, and James attended the OA Troop/Team Representative Training Session to learn how to best implement this exciting new program in Shu-Shu-Gah. They learned how to recruit OA Representatives, and keep them active in Lodge and Chapter activities.

Many of our youth members (all except Colin and Ian) went bowling today as well, and had a great time.

Of course, the day would not be complete without a few Belly Cheers!

After the show, several of our members felt the need to visit their favorite post-show hangout... that's right... Krystal Burgers. The manager looked like a "deer in headlights" as the Shu-Shu-Gah gang once again rolled into his establishment. In an amazing marketing attempt, he suggested that we try the Wendy's or McDonald's next door instead. He also suggested that White Castle's were better than Krystal's. The jury is still out on this one. A doughty group led by Andrew set out to experience the new McPizza. It is unanimous ... DO NOT EAT McPIZZA! Ronald should stick to beef on a bun.

Our Lodge Adviser surfaced once again this evening, both before and after the show. Initially he offered to give us a backstage tour of the shows arena, but was unable to fulfill this promise after the show was over. Tonight's sighting brings the total amount of time spent with Stu up to 20 minutes since the beginning of the conference.

For today's final thought from the contingent, CLICK HERE!

Today's Krystal Burger Count: 60 (230 total)
For more information on Krystal Burgers, Check out their Website.