Southern Standard

2017 Letter from the Editor

Brothers,

As we’ve started to embark on the year, I ask you to look back at 2017 and reflect on all the great experiences and lessons learn that have made a lasting impression for 2018. For me, I looked at the 2017 National as a great experience while also learning a lot from other Arrowman around the country. For you, it might mean your first lodge meeting where you met Arrowmen from across your council or maybe your first Section Conclave where you met Arrowmen across your state. What ever that growing experience might have been for you this year, like during your ordeal, sit down, and reflect.

For the second year in a row the Southern Region published the Southern Standard to bring you this year-in-review for 2017, a yearbook for the Southern Region. I’m excited to share what the Southern Region has been doing; included are event photos, national and regional event highlights, section conclave reports, and a new lodge highlight section. We hope you will find this report informative and interesting.

Thank you to Harrison, Talon, and the many others who have contributed to this report. The submissions from each section secretary, and event photos from attendees, are much appreciated. This report would not have been possible without your assistance.

Yours in Service,

AJ Valverde Editor-in-Chief Karankawa Lodge 307, Section SR-3 Inducted May 2012 Letter from the Region Key Three

To the Arrowmen of the Southern Region, :

It has been a privilege to serve this year as your Key 3. Though each of us fulfills a different role, we had one shared vision throughout the year to accomplish as a team: to positively impact youth across the Southern Region. From meeting all of you at different events this year to gathering for the National Jamboree at the Summit Bechtel Reserve to delivering training for your chapter, lodge, and section leaders, we have done our best to accomplish that ongoing goal and have witnessed firsthand that the Order of the Arrow is alive and well in the Southern Region!

Truthfully, though, the credit is entirely yours. Our Region boasted over a third of the Operation Arrow staff members at this year’s National Jamboree. The boys in blue were busy for two weeks leading mountain treks, informing participants on Native American culture, and performing all kinds of additional service to the Jamboree. To add to this, over 170 Arrowmen from across the South came together at two NLS/DYLC events to better themselves as leaders. These Arrowmen were able to learn more about themselves and how they can become more effective leaders and mentors both in and out of .

This October, section leaders from across eleven sections converged upon Sea Base to showcase what their sections have to be proud of and to take home knowledge on how to define and accomplish their own visions through their term of office. Several of these servant leaders provided service to Sea Base through cleaning up storm damage to the facility. Even in the face of tragedy, Southern Region Arrowmen organized efforts to rebuild and aid in the wake of Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma this fall. This boots-on-the- ground service above self is what our Order is all about - personal sacrifice for the betterment of others. Were it not for early-acting Arrowmen, many of the disaster affected would not have received the assistance they required in their time of need.

As the year concludes, we look back fondly over what you have all been a part of - building a better tomorrow for yourselves, your lodges, and this world. Thank you for allowing us the chance to serve you, and know that we will always be proud of what you have made possible in 2017.

With profound gratitude,

Harrison Fry Mike White Steve Sawyer

Southern Region Chief Southern Region Chairman Southern Region Staff Adviser Region Communications Team

Southern Region Chief | Harrison Fry Communications Coordinator | Reed Powell Assistant Communications Coordinator | Robert Mancha Southern Region Vice Chairman of Communications | Matt Madderra

Content Southern Standard Clayton Carte, Lead AJ Valverde

Social Media Visual Media Dan Williams, Lead Carter Harwell, Lead

Branding Kyle Kipple

Connect With Us

/OASouth @OASouthern @OASouth 6,240 followers 772 followers 2,257 followers 540 follower increase 472 follower increase 357 follower increase

Visit our website at southern.oa-bsa.org Southern Region Key 3

Region Chief Region Chairman Region Staff Adviser Harrison Fry Mike White Steve Sawyer

Southern Region OA Committee Members

Jason Riley Tim Brown Don Combs Mackie Zewalk

Matt Brown Taylor Bobrow John Williams Matt Madderra

Larry Mobley Devang Desai Justin Abshire Reed Powell

Jason Peoples Chris Phillips Scott Scheffler Chris Snoddy

Charlie Harbin Brett Warner Jakob Helderman Mason Thomas

Matthew Watson Chris Gower Sam Pitts Isaac McDaniel

Aaron Shepherd Jim Cheatham Brian Lux Elliott Gregg

Robert Fudge Greg Yentz

National OA Committee Members from the Southern Region

Ron Bell Dabney Kennedy Mackie Zewalk Chris Grove

Bill Loeble Jack Butler Carey Mignerey Max Sasseen

Jason Wolz Jeff Jonasen Ray Capp Bud Harrelson

Tico Perez Billy Walley Jason Hood Jeff Sedlacek

Matt Dukeman Mike White Michael Thompson Matt Walker

David Garrett Andy Chapman Devang Desai Hunter Jones

Talon Parker Travis Rubelee Craig Davis Southern Region Lodges

A-Booik-Paa-Gun • Aal-Pa-Tah • Ahoalan-Nachpikin • Aina Topa Hutsi • Akela Wahinapay • Alibamu • Aracoma • Ashwanchi Kinta • Atchafalaya • Atta Kulla Kulla • Blue Heron • Bob White • Caddo • Catabwa • Chattahoochee • Chicksa • Chilantakoba • Colonneh • Comanche • Coosa • Cowikee • Croatan • Echeconnee • Echockotee • Egwa Tawa Dee • Ema’o Mahpe • Eswau Huppeday • Hasinai • I-Tsu-La • Ini-To • Iti Bapishe Iti Hollo • Ittawamba • Karankawa • Kawida • Klahican • Loquanne Allangwh • Ma-Nu • Mikanakawa • Mowogo • Muscogee • Nakona • Nawakwa • Nayawin Rar • Netopalis Sipo Schipinachk • Nguttitehen • Nischa Achowalogen • O-Shot-Caw • Occoneechee • Osceola • Pellissippi • Penateka • Quapaw • Quelqueshoe • Quinipissa • Santee • Sebooney Okasucca • Semialachee • Sequoyah • Shenandoah • Shenshawpotoo • Skyuka • Ta Tsu Hwa • Talidandaganu • Tatanka • Tejas • Ti’ak • Tipisa • Tonkawa • Tsali • Tsoiotsi Tsogalii • Tutelo • Uh-To-Yeh-Hut-Tee • Un A Li’yi • Wa- Hi-Nasa • Wachtschu Mawachpo • Waguli • Wahinkto • Wahissa • Wahunsenakah • Washita • Watonala • Wazhazee • Wewanoma • Wichita • Wihinipa Hinsa • Wisawanik • Withlacoochee • Woa Cholena • Yustaga

Alabama • • Florida • Georgia • Kentucky • •

• North Carolina • • South Carolina • Tennessee • Texas • Virginia 2016 National Planning Meeting in Review

The National Planning Meeting is held two days after Christmas every year. Section chiefs from across the country come together in Dallas, TX to elect new national officers and begin planning next year’s program of emphasis. In 2016, our leadership did not just plan the National Jamboree but also the first ever OA Hackathon and Wachipi, an American Indian Seminar at Philmont. The planning of a new National Leadership Seminar and Lodge Leadership Development also began. Currently the Order’s top leadership is planning for the 2018 National Order of the Arrow Conference at Indiana University. WACHIPI, Native American Seminar

Philmont Scout played host to Wachipi, an American Indian seminar, June 4-6, 2017. 125 Arrowmen from across the country gathered to learn and celebrate the rich history and traditions of American Indians. The event saw many training sessions, two pow wows, and other activities to enrich the experience for everyone. Each participant created crafts to bring home and enhance their ceremonies and dance teams.

Operation Arrow in Review

During the 2017 National Jamboree the Order of the Arrow launched the largest ever Operation Arrow staff initiative. 450 Arrowmen from across the country came to serve on Trek Guide, Indian Village, Service Corp, Headquarters, and Recreation staff. 200 of those Arrowmen came from the Southern Region. This was historic for the Southern Region bringing the most out of all four Regions to the Jamboree. We look forward to the Order of the Arrow’s participation at the next National Jamboree.

Hurricanes Harvey and Irma Relief

On August 25, 2017 Hurricane Harvey bore down on the Texas Coast, only 16 days later. Hurricane Irma made landfall in Florida. Both storms caused extensive damage throughout the south. In total twelve councils experienced damage, with losing major elements of Camp Sawyer, the southernmost camp in the United States. To help with the rebuilding efforts, Section S-3 sold patches, one lodge served food to victims on the coast, and various lodges in Florida held clean up days and fundraisers. Many are still in need, if you still want to help check out Camp Sawyer Recovery Go Fund Me account; to order a relief patch check out www.SR-3.org.

National Leadership Seminar and Developing Youth Leadership Conference

This year, the Southern Region hosted two courses the third was canceled because of Hurricane Irma. This was a significant year with the launch of the revamped NLS course and whole new adult training course. “NLS challenged my beliefs in quality leadership and taught me great, insightful methods to tackle problems in my everyday life. As a result of NLS, I gained a new view on leadership and following and have translated the teachings into success in our lodge,” said Ricky Zamora of Wewanoma lodge, participant in the November inaugural NLS. Section Officer Seminar

The Southern Region Section Officer Seminar occurred at the Florida Sea base in Islamorada, FL during October. In attendance were all section officers from throughout the Southern Region. The training sessions included a section conclave best practices showcase and a presentation on the LINK national program by Talon Parker, Anthony Johnson, and Harrison Fry. SOS concluded Saturday night with a festive Cuban dinner on the lawn of the Truman Little White House. 2018 National Order of the Arrow Conference

From July 30 - August 4, 2018, join 8,000 Arrowmen from around the country at Indiana University for the 2018 National Order of the Arrow Conference! As the OA’s premier event, NOAC brings Arrowmen together from around the world to share ideas, learn from one another, and most importantly, experience an outstanding conference that is unlike any other event in Scouting. From patch trading with Arrowmen across the country, competing in Native American activities, ceremonies, and training sessions like no other there is something for every Arrowmen to enjoy.

OA High Adventure

The OA High Adventure program is an excellent opportunity for Arrowmen to visit and explore the BSA’s national high adventure bases. Opportunities are available for Arrowmen aged 14-20 at any of the four bases. Advantages of OAHA when compared to traditional treks include the affordable price, longer program lengths, and meeting brothers from across the country. Registration for all of the 2018 programs is open now at adventure.oa- bsa.org.

OA Trail Crew

Ever wanted to visit Philmont? Now is your chance. Spend a week building trails, then spend a week hiking in the Philmont backcountry.

Where: in When: Sessions are two weeks long Who: Arrowmen aged 16-20 Cost: $250

OA Wilderness Voyage and OA Canadian Odyssey

Portage trails where winters are brutal are unlike any other; learn how to construct them and canoe in the Great Lakes.

Where: Northern Tier in OR Quetico Park in Ontario When: Sessions are two weeks long Who: Arrowmen aged 16-20 Cost: $200

OA Ocean Adventure

Beginning in 2017, Ocean Adventure will be working in the Dry Tortugas National Park. Be the first to volunteer for the NPS in the Florida Keys.

Where: Florida Sea Base in Florida When: Sessions are 10 days long Who: Arrowmen aged 16-20 Cost: $500

OA Summit Experience

Construct public-access trails in the New River Gorge National River. This program is specifically for Arrowmen aged 14-17.

Where: Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia When: Sessions are 8 days long Who: Arrowmen aged 14 -17 Cost: $250 Thanks, Harrison

This year would not be a success without our Region Chief, Harrison Fry. His countless hours of traveling without hesitation to make lodge and section events hold true to his value of cheerful service. Harrison’s remarkable talent of public speaking made him a star at the 2017 Jamboree and around the Region. Thank you Harrison for your dedication to Brotherhood, Cheerfulness, and Service to the Southern Region this year! Region Calendar 2018

January 12-15 Train-the-Trainer Sam Houston Area Council Scout Office Houston, TX February 22-23 Region Winter Board Meeting Nashville, TN March 2-4 NLS & DYLC Scout Office Atlanta, GA March 4-10 SeaBreak (Brinton Center) Florida Sea Base Islamorada, FL April 13-15 Section 1A Conclave Avondale Scout Reservation April 13-15 Section 1B Conclave Maubila Scout Reservation April 13-15 Section 4 Conclave Camp Miles April 20-22 Section 2 Conclave Sid Richardson Scout Reservation April 20-22 Section 6 Conclave Camp Mack Morris April 20-22 Section 7B Conclave Cherokee Scout Reservation April 20-22 Section 9 Conclave Comer Scout Reservation April 27-29 Section 5 Conclave Anne Springs Close Greenway April 27-29 Section 7A Conclave May 4-6 Section 8 Conclave Camp Orr May 23-25 BSA National Annual Meeting Dallas, TX June 17-23 Philmont DYLC Philmont - Cimarron, NM July 13-15 Section 3 Conclave University of the Incarnate Word July 30 – August 4 NOAC Indiana University Bloomington, IN September 28-30 NLS & DYLC CapitalOne West Creek Town Center Richmond, VA October 12-14 Section Officer Seminar Memphis, TN October 17-19 Region Fall Board Meeting TBD November 9-11 NLS & DYLC Camp Beauregard Pineville, LA December 27-30 OA National Planning Meeting Marriott Solana Westlake, TX

Section Conclaves

2017

The 2017 SR-1A Conclave was held at Salmen Scout Reservation in Mississippi on April 7th-9th. Arrowmen from across South Mississippi and most of Louisiana came together for an action-packed event encompassing the theme “Mardi Gras.” There was a great variety of food, events, and shows based around this great theme. Beginning Friday evening, lodges set up their campsites and then headed over to the dining hall to socialize. Since many lodges traveled long distances to be there, the Friday evening program was a brief show, allotting enough time for fellowship and cracker barrel, while not impeding participants from lodges who had not set up. Many Section SR-1A activities, trainings, and competitions kicked off the Saturday

program. As well as enjoying activities such as football, scavenger Louisiana and Mississippi hunt, gaga ball, and several others, each lodge had their own event

for founder’s festival. A few day-long activities and many competitions around the camp were held throughout the day, Section Chief including ceremonies, dodge ball, and ultimate frisbee. Arrowmen Andrew Sheehan would also immerse themselves in many different trainings which included classes on dance, OA leadership, and how to conduct Section Vice Chief successful Ordeals. Before dinner, we had our Meet the Candidates Jacob VanCoevering session where anyone could ask the candidates questions. After dinner, we held our section officer elections. After having the same Section Secretary officers for two years, we had a whole new group of officers Jimmy Lloyd elected. Many participants attended the founder’s festival on Saturday evening. This final activity brought together many Arrowmen for the last moments of Conclave. This last event left the Attendance greatest impact upon those who stayed up late talking and enjoying 144 Arrowmen their time together. Everyone also enjoyed our three special guests: Forrest Gertin, National Chief, Southern Region Chief, Harrison Fry, Conclave 2017 and Jerry hand, SR-1B Chief. The following morning the section April 7 - 9 wished everyone safe travels on their way home. All together our section came together to have an attendance of 144 participants. Chilantakoba Lodge Although a bit smaller attendance than last year, it was still a great event. In our survey after Conclave we received many great reviews Conclave 2018 in each of our major areas such as trainings and shows. April 13 – 15 Optimistically, we are expecting another at next year’s Conclave Quinipissa Lodge scheduled to be at Avondale Scout Ranch hosted by Quinipissa Lodge in April, 2018. www.oa-sr1A.org

The 2017 SR-1B Conclave was held at Camp Alaflo in New Brockton and was hosted by Cowikee Lodge. The training at Conclave was fantastic with over forty classes offered including camping hacks, American Indian activities, Dutch oven cooking, publications and many more. After a morning full of training was completed, the lodges of Section SR-1B competed in our annual competitions of, lodge ball, Ultimate Frisbee, ceremonies, and everyone’s favorite - Spam toss! Section SR-1B After the fun-filled games, we had our founder’s day consisting of

every lodge setting up a booth with their lodge history on display, a Alabama, Florida, game, and food. and Mississippi The shows at Conclave were some of the best we’ve ever had. The Section Chief games at the show were very fun friendly games that everyone Peyton Peralto enjoyed. At the last show some of our actors did an incredible job of inspiring the Arrowmen.

Section Vice Chief We are looking forward to this upcoming years Conclave! Andrew Simpson

Section Secretary Shelby Kirkland

Attendance 355 Arrowmen

Conclave 2017 April 28 - 30 Cowikee Lodge

Conclave 2018 April 13 - 15 Woa Cholena Lodge

www.sr1B.org

The 2017 SR-2 Conclave was held at Kinsey Scout Reservation in Louisiana on April 21st-23rd. Arrowmen from across North Texas and Western Louisiana came together for a busy event encompassing the theme “Serve.” Participants were reminded of this core principle which many times we take for granted. Beginning Friday evening, participants socialized and caught up with friends, many whom they had not seen for the past year. Since many lodges traveled long distances to be there, the Friday evening program was brief, allotting free time for the participants while not impeding participants from lodges who had not yet arrived. Many activities, trainings, and competitions kicked off the Saturday program. While enjoying activities Section SR-2 such as quidditch, human foosball, gaga ball, and several others, each lodge found time throughout the weekend to work on a chapel at the camp. Each Arkansas, Louisiana, person contributed a small amount of their weekend to create a lasting and Texas impact on the host lodge and camp for many years to come. A few day long activities and many competitions were held around the camp throughout Section Chief the day, including ceremonies, dodgeball, and ultimate frisbee. Arrowmen Slade Young also immersed themselves in many different trainings which included classes from dance, OA leadership, and how you can improve your chapters. Section Vice Chief Many participants attended the Pow-Wow on Saturday evening. This final Brody Humphries activity brought together many Arrowmen for the last moments of

Conclave. This last event left the greatest impact upon those who stayed up Section Secretary late dancing, talking, and enjoying their time together. That sole item would go on to inspire many activities centered around that Pow-Wow for this next Connor Schee year. The following morning the section wished everyone safe travels on their way home. All together our section came together to have an Attendance attendance a little over 500 even for being so far away from our section’s 501 Arrowmen central area. In our survey after Conclave we received many great reviews in each of our major areas such as training and activities. Overwhelmingly, Conclave 2017 participants would recommend other Scouts to attend next year’s Conclave April 21 - 23 scheduled to be at Sid Richardson Scout Ranch hosted by Netopalis Sipo Caddo Lodge Schipinachk. Arrowman left the weekend with a contagious attitude looking forward to next year, and the many lodge events ahead. Conclave 2018 April 20 - 22 Netopalis Sipo Schipinachk

www.sr-2.org

Section 3 held its Lone Star Fellowship June 30 - July 2, 2017 at the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, TX. The six key areas that comprise our entire weekend include administration, competitions, experience, fellowship, shows, and training. Each Conclave Vice Chief did an exceptional job in giving our Arrowmen the best possible time at the 2017 Lone Star fellowship. The administration team was a critical component in checking over 400 Arrowmen in and out. This year our administration team sold Section SR-3 Section SR-3 merchandise for the first time; they did an outstanding job building on our new brand. Our competitions team had an all Texas time high of participation in American Indian, ceremonies, lodge program, and recreational sports - each category was equipped with Section Chief the most knowledgeable judges. For the second year in a row we Brett Randall gave out the Golden Arrow to the lodge with the most competitive team. The experience team worked to really enhance our guest experience by having a Texas-size ice cream social and VIA luncheon Section Vice Chief with National Vice-Chief Talon Parker, Southern Region Chief Daniel Oaks Harrison Fry, SR-7A Chief Anthony Peluso, former SR-7B Chief Brandon Kelly, and former SR-1A Chief John Williams. Later our Section Secretary lodge-a-palooza featured all lodges handing out carnival food! The AJ Valverde 2017 theme was “Together we can.” Our shows team did a great job intertwining our theme with pure entertainment. The Saturday show ended with an emotional speech given by our 2017 Section Chief Attendance Tanner Maris changing the theme from “Together we can” to 411 Arrowmen “Together we will” challenging Arrowmen to make an impact each and everyday. The training team renovated the way we train by Conclave 2017 conducting “TED talk-style” training session titled “The Power of June 30 – July 2 One,” “Smile,” and “Living Our Admonition.” We found that Arrowmen University of the Incarnate young and old appreciate the innovative way of training. Our service Word project this year was a blood drive to help the San Antonio blood bank, the drive was held most of Saturday with Arrowmen pouring in throughout the day. After requesting feedback from participants, we Conclave 2018 found that the majority of first year members say that the LSF serves July 13-15 as their base structure for knowledge in the Order and what it has to University of the Incarnate offer. Word Section 3 is looking forward to the 2018 Lone Star Fellowship after

such a successful 2017 event. www.sr-3.org

Section S-4’s 2017 conclave was very exciting: we had many games and time for Native American dances and drumming. There was also a ton of time to have a powwow which made for an extremely fun Saturday night. There were also many trainings from social media to American Indian craft making; there was a training for everyone to enjoy. There were plenty of events going on throughout the day for people to check out! Our lodges’ King’s Cup displays as well as a small Indian village were running for a majority of the time. There were also many competitions going on throughout the day from lodge ball to tug of war. There were also many competitions for individual and Section SR-4 group dancing as well as drumming.

Florida This year’s conclave was hosted by the brand new Uh-To-Yeh-Hut-

Tee Lodge #89. The event was hosted at Sand Hill Scout Reservation on April 21 – 23, 2017. We even had our very own Region Chief, Section Chief Harrison Fry, attend this wonderful event. We can’t wait to see what’s Gregory Yentz in store for the next Conclave, here at Section S-4! Section S-4’s Conclave for 2018 will be one for the ages. Osceola Lodge has been Section Vice Chief working hard to bring you the amazing experience that a Section S- Thomas Driscoll 4 Conference should always be. This year, Conclave will be held at Camp Miles in Punta Gorda on April 13-15, 2018. Section Secretary Adrian Aponte This year, the section officer team and host lodge have been working together to create a section Conclave for the record books. With competitions, trainings, games, and powwows, every Arrowman will Attendance have something to enjoy. This year’s theme for Conclave will be 804 Arrowmen “Brothers, we are ready!” We are ready to show everyone how much fun we will have and how they should never miss another one of our Conclave 2017 events. We are ready to show everyone in the Region that Section S- April 21 - 23 4 is the best section! We are seven lodges, one section, one team, and one goal! Be on the lookout for more promotional materials and Uh-To-Yeh-Hut-Tee information as we approach this exciting event! Lodge

Conclave 2018 April 13 - 15

Osceola Lodge

www.sectionS4.org

On April 28-30, 2017, SR-5 welcomed over 1,000 youth and adult Arrowmen from across the section to celebrate the 65th anniversary Dixie Fellowship hosted by Muscogee Lodge at Camp Barstow in Batesburg, South Carolina. This was a special Dixie introducing new training ideas, quest events, and an ongoing list of fun activities that provided a perfect weekend for fellowship and fun for our Arrowmen. With the introduction of the Dixie Grand Fair, we modeled the 2015 N.O.A.C. Founder’s Festival to give the scouts a unique introduction to Dixie as they entered the camp visiting booths from each lodge, Section SR-5 sponsored guests, games, activities, patch trading, O.A. High Adventure and Operation Arrow promotion, a cracker barrel and so

Georgia, South Carolina, much more! All of this and an exciting Friday night opening show gave way to start the historical 65th Dixie Fellowship. Guests such as and North Carolina past section officers to the National Vice-Chief, Talon Parker, brought fun and spirit to spread amongst the lodges as they would Section Chief spend all weekend competing to earn the Section Spirit Award. Jakob Helderman Saturday brought a new day of fun and adventure with unique Section Vice Chief training sessions hosted by each lodge. Topics included camp Cole Taylor promotions, O.A. High Adventure information, planning events and fellowships, and the growth of O.A. spirit. Following training came Section Secretary the competition of the Quest for the Golden Arrow. Arrowmen competed in events such as ultimate frisbee, American Indian affairs, Robert Bolton, Jr. war canoe and cross-country races, shooting shorts, Scout skill challenges, and administrative events bringing every Scout the Attendance opportunity to have the experience of a lifetime! In the afternoon, 1,110 Arrowmen Arrowmen gathered in the assembly field to take part in the nomination process on the election of a new section chief, vice-chief Conclave 2017 and secretary at the Saturday night campfire. Lodges continued to April 28 - 30 grow in spirit as the day went on and kept growing as everyone gathered in the amphitheater to enjoy a Saturday night show and Muscogee Lodge election.

Conclave 2018 For the last time at the 65th Dixie Fellowship, Arrowmen gathered April 27 - 29 again Sunday morning to enjoy a Scout’s Own chapel service, awards Skyuka Lodge and the swearing in of the new section officers. This was the conclusion of a successful Dixie until we gather again in 2018 at the www.sr5.org Anne Springs Close Greenway in Fort Mill, South Carolina.

This year’s Conclave was held in Lebanon, TN at Boxwell Scout Reservation. The service lodge, Wa-Hi-Nasa, put on a great weekend as this past Conclave was unique in several ways. The promotion for Wa-Hi-Nasa’s Conclave was widespread and very effective. They began promotion at the 2016 Conclave in Arkansas by handing out distinctive poker chips magnets for the “All In” theme. These were part of a special prize incentive to be received when presented at check-in. The total number Arrowmen in attendance was 631. Friday night was filled with a variety of games and activities such as Section SR-6 volleyball and inflatables that got each Arrowman engaged and interacting with fellow lodges. There were so many things to do Kentucky, Mississippi, which appealed to many Scouts, no matter the age range. The VIA and Tennessee Dinner was unique in that it hosted the lodge chief and adviser along with four to five guests from each lodge. The dinner had more attendees than ever and was successful in getting lodges to start Section Chief building relationships between individuals. The Quest Games were Zach Callicutt also a tremendous success as they broke the mold of typical Quest Games of the past. This year, it was divided up into nine separate Section Vice Chief individual lodge challenges that rotated until completion and was David Thornton then followed up by head-to-head competitions such as three-way tug-o-war and potato sack races. Saturday evening’s campfire had a Section Secretary large turnout and was complete with lip sync battles and an impressive performance by a Native American drum group from Ben Gilbert Texas. There were also some intense ceremony competitions as well as bead working and regalia making classes. A pow-wow held on Attendance Saturday showcased several talented Native American performers 631 Arrowmen with dances and songs from the drum. The service lodge did an excellent job of supporting each area of the conclave program and Conclave 2017 provided excellent service for the other lodges during meals and with April 28 - 30 camping arrangements. They were very thorough in planning out the conclave and did well to keep the events in a localized area. Our Wa-Hi-Nasa Lodge areas of growth and improvement would be with our training such as Brotherhood 2.0. This is being addressed in the upcoming 2018 Conclave 2018 Conclave with new and innovative ways to conduct each training and April 20 - 22 how to sign up for them. Ittawamba Lodge

www.oasection6.org

The 2017 SR-7A Conclave was a blast! Celebrating our 20th birthday, we kicked off Friday night with a huge celebration and show! National Chief Forrest Gertin and Regional Chief Harrison Fry gave speeches, and lodge chiefs got in on the fun with a “Minute to Win It” challenge. Saturday, the day started smoothly with training sessions in the morning. Multiple areas offered various training sessions, and Forrest Gertin helped to lead our main training session for Troop Representatives. After the training sessions, all areas were open for participants! The museum, which was located by the Service Project Section SR-7A and the road into camp, had many items on display celebrating the birthday of the section, in addition to the items already on display by

Virginia Blue Heron. The Service Project this year consisted of donating blood to the Virginia Blood Service, and helping sort potatoes for a local

group. Next, ceremonies hosted their own evaluations, with judges Section Chief from all over the country coming to help better the section's Anthony Peluso ceremonies teams. Then, the Expo had vendors from all across the Tidewater area highlight what they had to offer! The VA Department Section Vice Chief of Game and Inland Fisheries showcased their skills in hunting down Seth Greiling poachers, and the various equipment they use to do so. Maddy Ryan, a NASCAR driver, displayed her racing car, and answered questions Section Secretary from Arrowmen and NASCAR fans alike. The OA High Adventure area Gabriel Plichta displayed the many aspects an OAHA crewmember learns from his time abroad at one of the exciting OAHA camps. A bluegrass band also performed in the High Adventure area, to the enjoyment of Attendance many. As the day progressed, the battle for the Golden Arrow waged 1,170 Arrowmen on, as many Lodges fought to win the coveted arrow. Trough trials and tribulations in Tug-of-War, Volleyball, Ultimate Frisbee, fire Conclave 2017 building, and other competitions, Tutelo Lodge #161 came out on April 28 - 30 top! As the evening grew near, it was almost time for the Saturday show, where awards are given out, as well as section elections took Blue Heron Lodge place. Anthony Peluso successfully ran for reelection, and Seth Greiling and Gabriel Plichta winning Vice Chief and Secretary, Conclave 2018 respectively. After the Saturday show, a local band performed to April 27 - 29 hungry Arrowmen, who dined on the food of their lodge and the Shenshawpotoo Lodge lodges in the section.

___ www.sr7A.org

Section SR-7B once again hosted the largest Conclave in the nation this year with 1,487 participants. The Cardinal Conclave was hosted at Camp Raven Knob in Mount Airy, North Carolina. Arrowman filled the massive dining hall on site for our Friday night campfire activities as an evening rainstorm hovered over the mountainous camp. Even with downpour our spirits were higher than the clouds as the section officers filled the room with song and laughter. Each lodge showed their spirit with themes ranging from bananas to super heroes. The next morning Arrowmen lined the roads of camp for an SR-7B original called OAX or Order of the Arrow Experience. Over 60 Section SR-7B exhibitors lined the roads in camp sharing camping skills and opportunities for Arrowman to participant in. Simultaneously, the Red North Carolina Cross was holding a blood drive on site and Arrowmen gave 40 units of blood collectively. In the same vicinity across the way, Arrowmen participated in dance, ceremonies, and singing competitions. In the Section Chief afternoon, lodges gathered outside the dining hall during Quest for Sean Alewine the Golden Arrow. One of the most contested events at Conclave that lodges spend months leading up to Conclave preparing for. Section Vice Chief Events offered in Quest for the Golden Arrow this year included a Program canoe relay race, tug of war, frozen t-shirt race, four-man push ups, Alex Schultz and a spam toss between lodge chiefs and lodge advisers. Throughout the day, Arrowmen participated in our Conclave Service Section Vice Chief project in providing care packages for Hurricane Matthew victims. Training Section SR-7B packed over 1,000 care packages to send as relief. Participants also donated 2,000 pounds of food during the event for Simon Harris the local food pantry in Greensboro, North Carolina. The evening show marked the winding down of the days festivities with a Section Secretary meaningful and inspirational show in Camp Raven Knob’s state-of- Nicholas Anderson the-art campfire amphitheater. Outgoing officers participated in an egg roulette and AIA awards were distributed. Our evening ended Attendance with a final party we call Carnival. Music filled the dining hall from a local area band. Inflatables, lawn games, and ice cream outside the 1,487 Arrowmen dining hall gave Arrowman a night they couldn’t forget. Finally, our Sunday morning show marked the end of our Cardinal Conclave with Conclave 2017 the distribution of section awards and the swearing in of our new April 21 - 23 officers. Wahissa Lodge

Conclave 2018 April 20 - 22

The 2017 Section 8 Conclave was hosted by Quapaw Lodge at Camp Rockefeller. There were just over 500 members in attendance. Attendees were greeted with a large group of staff and a gear trailer system that streamlined the check-in process. After check-in on Friday night a welcome Cracker Barrel was held in the dining hall to bring everyone together and set the tone for the weekend.

On Saturday morning training sessions were offered with an emphasis in ceremonies, dance, history and traditions. In the Section SR-8 afternoon the quest for the golden arrow was kicked off. Each lodge competed for the golden arrow through a series of competitions.

Arkansas and Oklahoma This involved quest games like human foosball, egg toss, and an OA trivia contest. The other facet of the quest was designed to test lodge

effectiveness in areas such as newsletters, websites, and the where Section Chief to go camping booklet. Additionally, in the afternoon, workshops David Ashley were held and run by each of our by Section 8 lodges. Workshops revolved around regalia, beadwork, and old-style cooking. Camp Section Vice Chief Rockefeller had many areas open and operating including the Benedict Trudeau shooting sports complex and the climbing tower. There was organized patch trading and a patch auction. Lodges had the Section Secretary opportunity to present ceremonies for evaluation in the interest of Cameron Cranford the betterment of induction ceremonies.

The evening activities included a pow wow, regalia evaluations, and Attendance a dance competition. Sunday morning chapel was offered after 506 Arrowmen breakfast. The annual business meeting concluded the 2017 Conclave where new officers were elected: Section Chief David Conclave 2017 Ashley, Section Vice Chief Benedict Trudeau, and Section Secretary May 5 - 7 Cameron Cranford. We also selected our 2017 Section 8 Award of Merit recipient: Noah Smith. Quapaw Lodge

Conclave 2018 May 4 - 6 Wachtschu Mawachpo Lodge

www.srsection8.org

Section SR-9 held the 2017 Heartland Gathering in April with over seven- hundred Arrowmen in attendance. Camp Frank G. Lumpkin, located centrally in the section, was a great location with excellent weather throughout the weekend. The event was a success thanks to all the Arrowmen from Chattahoochee Lodge who worked tirelessly to prepare for the event. This year, the section rebranded its Conclave as the Heartland Gathering. This reflects our belief of SR-9 being the “Southern Heartland” as it is the social and economic center of the South. The theme this year was “Remember the Admonition.” We urged attendees Section SR-9 to remember the ideals of being an Arrowman to better serve their respected communities. We hoped to inspire future leaders who can Alabama and Georgia help set the standard of selfless service and kindness toward one another. At Gathering, each lodge presented their take on a signature training session. The lodges each offered a class on their lodge’s Section Chief strength and the results were outstanding. A popular favorite was Austin Thrift “Waguli Stick 101,” an interactive class covering the basics of the game Waguli Stick, a local favorite created by one of our lodges. Other lodge Section Vice Chief signature sessions included running a council and prepping Austin Clark for a Philmont trek. The lodge signature sessions added a new element to section training, and the lodges are excited to continue teaching them. A popular feature of the SR-9 Conclave is the variety of athletic Section Secretary Quest Events which included Frisbee, wixchixin, tug-of-war, and a new Joseph Barnes edition: lodge ball (dodge ball). Other events included ceremony evaluations, where we saw great participation within all lodges, and Attendance American Indian activities where the dance ring was busy all afternoon judging the section’s best dancers and drummers. Former National 773 Arrowmen Chairman Ray Capp was the keynote speaker at our VIA luncheon and got to meet lodge leadership as well as new Arrowmen. The section also Conclave 2017 donated $1,000 to the local Habitat for Humanity center. On Saturday April 21 - 23 night, the celebrations ended with the closing show, and the fifth annual Chattahoochee Lodge Tailypo festival. This event features lodge booths, the Cracker Barrel, and lots of fun games and contests. The event also features the section pie- eating contest and the SR-9 lip sync battle. After a great 2017 event, Conclave 2018 Section SR-9 looks forward to hosting the 2nd annual Heartland April 20- 22 Gathering on April 20-22, 2018 at Camp Comer. Coosa Lodge

___ www.sr-9.org

Lodge of the Year

2017 Spotlight

Sebooney Okasucca Lodge #260 of the Andrew Jackson Council #303 based out of Jackson, Mississippi is a truly dedicated member of Section SR- 1A. From their service to their spirit, brothers of Sebooney Okasucca Lodge exemplify the meaning of the Obligation. Sebooney Okasucca Lodge is always working towards recruiting members as they consistently bring the largest contingent to every SR- Sebooney 1A event. In addition to its service to SR-1A, Sebooney Okasucca Lodge Okasucca Lodge provides numerous service hours and financial support to their Council. Sebooney Section SR-1A Okasucca is very dedicated to helping their local Lodge of the Year camp, Hood Scout Reservation, which is ranked in the top ten BSA summer camps in the United States. Sebooney Okasucca Lodge's dedidcation to SR-1A is shown by their many recent accomplishments as a www.bsa-jackson.org lodge. Sebooney Okasucca earned the Southern Region We Support Camping Award, and various awards from our native conclave. Overall, Sebooney Okasucca Lodge is a truly integral part of SR-1A.

Yustaga 385, based in Pensacola, Fl., the largest lodge in the section, has earned the designation of Best All Around Lodge seven out of the last eight years. That competition is based on year-round performance and not simply conclave competitions. The lodge is a key supporter of Spanish Trail Scout Reservation and has spearheaded many projects and Yustaga Lodge improvements over the last several years including kitchen improvements, outfitting several campsites with new tent Section SR-1B platforms, installing a life size chess game, constructing a ga- ga ball pit and much more. A recipient of the Region’s “We Lodge of the Year Support Camping Award” in 2015 and 2016, the lodge has applied again for 2017. They have averaged over 3200 hours of Lodge Chief service the last three years to both Scouting and local Bradley Payne communities including flag placements during holidays, local trail clean ups, natural disaster relief, clean ups, and Lodge Officers many more through the efforts of its four chapters. The lodge Houston Hartley consistently ranks in JTE scoring and is proud of the fact that Tyler Rickman they average a 33% attendance rate at conclaves and over 30% Lance Blum attendance rate at lodge activities. The lodge is hosting its eighth annual Yustaga Native American Weekend which is promoted to local Cub Scouts, and Girl Scouts as www.yustaga385.com an educational, historical, hands on opportunity to learn from local Native American representatives. In the fall of 2017, the lodge was honored to be the first beta test of the new LLD program that will be rolled out to the entire nation at the 2018 NOAC. Yustaga will celebrate its 70th anniversary in 2018 and looks forward to continuing its legacy of service and leadership development for many years to come.

For the past several years, Netopalis Sipo Schipinachk has produced many great leaders to the section as well as national levels. Through their hard work and Netopalis Sipo dedication to promoting a better program at their Schipinachk Lodge lodge they have seen an increase in membership and a slow rise in those converting to brotherhood. This Section SR-2 lodge has been awarded the National Service Award in Lodge of the Year 2015 and has maintained a Silver JTE Lodge for the past two years and has hopes of making it to Gold at Lodge Chief the end of 2017. From being a promoter for the OA Connor Schee High Adventure program Netopalis was the among one of the largest contributors in sending youth to Lodge Offficers these programs. Netopalis continuously finds Nick Chavez themselves solving the problems many others have Keegan Murray quickly and offer to help improve the section as a James Hamrick whole. Through their hardworking members SR-2 Will Schnieder sees the capability and believes they will only continue Jonathan Bell down this successful path.

www.Netopalis209.org

This year Section SR-3 Started the Annual Lodge-of- the-Year Award to be earned by one of our nine Wewanoma Lodge lodges. Wewanoma was the inaugural winner, advancing further than any other lodge because of Section SR-3 their huge increase in lodge participation. Wewanoma Lodge of the Year for the second year in a row won the Golden Arrow, earned by the lodge who participated in the most Lodge Chief competitions and whom places in each competition Ricky Zamora they compete in. With great momentum in

participation Wewanoma was one of two lodges in the Lodge Officers Jacob Esparza Southern Region to receive the E. Urner Goodman Sammy Gutierrez Camping Award. Gabriel Rodriguez Each year Wewanoma conducts a council-wide event David de la Garza called “POW WOW.” This year the event brought more than $13,000, with the money raised Wewanoma

gives back in Summer camp scholarships and donates www.wewanoma272.com supplies for Camp Perry. Ricky and his team are dedicated to cheerful service, after Hurricane Harvey struck part of our section his team organized and cooked over 1,000 meals for Harvey victims on the

Gulf coast.

Section S-4 has 7 amazing lodges, and annually they compete to become the “Best All Around” lodge. O-Shot-Caw Lodge Reigning champion O-Shot-Caw Lodge was once again recognized as the best lodge in the best section. Section SR-4 Then lodge chief Wyatt Engleman remarked “this Lodge of the Year recognition by the other chiefs in the section is just remarkable” on winning Best All Around Lodge. After hosting our conclave in 2016, and donating an Lodge Chief Wyatt Engleman extraordinary $53 per member to their council, Wyatt knew he would have a hard time topping that. He Lodge Officers along with his officers, decided to double down on the Josh Semander lodge’s efforts to support camping in the council, and Andres Guerrero renewed their camperships, as well as added a major weekend. Wyatt and his team were able to maintain their spot at the top, earning JTE Gold and www.o-shot-caw.org the Southern Region’s National Service Award. O-

Shot-Caw has received the National Service Award 12 times, making them the most recognized lodge in the nation!

Skyuka Lodge #270 of the Palmetto Council #549 based out of Spartanburg, South Carolina is a truly dedicated member of Section SR5. From their service to their spirit, brothers of Skyuka Lodge exemplify the Skyuka Lodge meaning of the Obligation. Skyuka Lodge works continuously to promote brotherhood around our Section SR-5 section. In addition to its service to SR5, Skyuka Lodge Lodge of the Year provides numerous service hours and a great deal of financial support to Palmetto Council. In September Lodge Chief of 2017, Skyuka Lodge hosted its first annual Cub Cole Taylor Scout Shootoree which resulted in over 700 Cub Scouts, parents, and leaders in attendance. Skyuka Lodge Officer Adddison Fox Lodge’s dedication to SR5 is shown by their many Tatum Goins recent accomplishments as a lodge. In 2017, Skyuka Max Robinson Lodge received a Gold Level Journey to Excellence Noah Rose award, the Southern Region We Support Camping Will Rose Award, and various awards from our native conclave, the Dixie Fellowship. Overall, Skyuka Lodge is a truly www.skyukalodge.org integral part of SR5.

On August 18, 2017 Pellissippi Lodge 230 of the Great Smokey Mountain Council celebrated their 75th lodge anniversary. Pellissippi celebrated its 75th at their annual Fall Fellowship at their home camp, Camp Pellissippi Lodge Buck Toms. It was attended by many of the lodge’s Arrowmen both young and old. Pellissippi has been Section SR-6 one of the most outstanding lodges in SR-6, and has Lodge of the Year produced some of the best leaders in the section. Many of the lodges key volunteers have received the Lodge Chief Section 6 Service Award for their outstanding service Nathan Holland to their lodge and the section. Strong lodges like Pellissippi will continue to provide valuable leadership Lodge Officer Anthony Phillips throughout our Orders second century. Jesse Mullins Congratulations to Pellissippi on 75 years of Eli Smith brotherhood and service. Gene Farmer

www.pellissippilodge.org

Tutelo Lodge #161 is a lodge in SR-7A that has stood out. This past Conclave, Tutelo won the Golden Tutelo Lodge Arrow, which is a sports competition, and the Lodge of the Year Award, which is used to exemplify a model Section SR-7A lodge within the Section. Tutelo has also been at the Lodge of the Year forefront of ceremonies, with teams winning National Awards back-to-back at NOAC and at section

Lodge Chief ceremonies evaluations. Tutelo has also worked to Edward Blount help make and continue the Section's Ceremonies Weekend, which has special guests from across the Lodge Officers nation to help better sectional Arrowmen on J.D. Castleman ceremonies. The lodge has also won multiple sports Tom Baker competitions, at both the section level and the Takoda Cashion national level. Tutelo provides service to Camp Sam Bystrek Powhatan and Camp Ottari, which are Tutelo's home Kevin Reedy camps. The lodge also fills the ranks of camp staff Ken Lyons every year with OA members, and conducts successful call-out ceremonies to troops during the www.tutelo161.org summer camp season.

___

Section SR-7B has chosen to shine our spotlight on Croatan Lodge of East Carolina Council. Croatan Lodge continuously strives to improve their program Croatan Lodge and grow as a Lodge with every passing Conclave. They have long history of winning the Section’s Honor Section SR-7B Lodge Award for a number of years. Croatan Lodge Lodge of the Year also has a very strong American Indian program and takes home the most AIA awards each Conclave. Lodge Chief Croatan chooses their AIA program as their innovating Matt Hodges program for this upcoming Conclave and was showcased in the Section’s monthly newsletter. Each Lodge Officers NOAC, Croatan Lodge represents our section in Luke Hult numerous AIA competitions and often brings home Hunter Hairston first place. Croatan Lodge is being led this year by Kyle Ferguson Robbie Bass Lodge Chief Kyle Ferguson and Lodge Adviser Harvey Issac Kirkman Hoopes. Caleb Miller

www.croatan.org

Quapaw Lodge served as the host Lodge for the 2017 Conclave. In doing so, the lodge provided Quapaw Lodge the Conclave Vice Chiefs. Dilan Culley was the Service

CVC, Alex Li served as CVC for Quest, and Noah Smith Section SR-8 served as Host Lodge Conclave Vice Chief. Quapaw Lodge of the Year also coordinated the trading post for the event. In

Lodge Chief addition to the above, Quapaw Lodge also won the Noah Smith Golden Arrow Award. This award is given to the Lodge by SR-8 for overall performance at conclave and Lodge Officers specifically in quest games. Quapaw Lodge excelled in Alex Li the competitions and brought home the coveted Grant Dawson Golden Arrow award. During Conclave Lodge Chief Phillip Roberts David Ashley was elected to Section Chief and Lodge

Vice Chief Noah Smith won the Section Award of www.quapawbsa.org Merit. Overall, the 2017 Conclave was a monumental event for Quapaw Lodge 160, they will continue to be a force in planning and executing conclave. They are now looking forward to making an impact on the 2017

NOAC.

Alibamu lodge has obtained the title of SR-9’s best all- around lodge for 6 years in a row! Over the past few years, Alibamu has provided a great amount of support Alibamu Lodge to our local council and its camp. Whether it is something small like helping at a Cub Scout Section SR-9 Camporee or something big like building a volleyball Lodge of the Year court or redoing Camp Tukabatchee’s swimming docks, our lodge is always willing to provide help in Lodge Chief any way that we are needed. If there is a council event Logan Bozeman happening, there will be OA sashes present. Our lodge takes pride in who we are and is always striving to be Lodge Officers the best that we can possibly be! Addison Broom Ryan Holtzscher

Austin Kelsey

www.alibanuorg

___