We are about to kick-off what looks to be another successful year for the Shawnee Lodge. Looking back to the Fall Reunion, we faced many challenges, mainly the weather, something most of us have never been faced with before. I was impressed with how everyone dealt with the situation. All the outgoing and incoming Chapter Chiefs handled the situation well and all of the Chapter members were very cooperative, making the weekend a success. Almost 4,000 Shawnee Lodge members were in attendance, including the almost 900 inducted into the Order of the Arrow and the 200 who sealed their membership by earning Brotherhood, making it a good end to a great year, but even better, a fantastic start to a new year!

My self and the new Lodge Officers are very excited and we have already been working very diligently to make this year a great success. The Lodge Winter Fellowship Banquet is now in the deep planning process. Our Lodge Ceremonial Team Seminar is also making progress. Information is available in this issue. Our One Day of Service is sure to be another great success this year, but only with your help. One of my biggest goals this year is to develop a new O.A. Program at Summer Camp. As all of you know, there is nothing offered just for Arrowmen at summer camp, well, that’s going to change! Your Lodge Corresponding Secretary Matt Nahlik and Treasurer Joe Burkard are leading the efforts to develop this weeklong program. Finally, O.A. Summer Camp is coming back this year at S bar F. Don’t miss out on another opportunity to spend a week at the greatest place in the world!

As a lodge, we are going to continue to improve upon our Troop Rep. and Extended Elangomat programs. With the continued improvements made to these programs, we will see easier communication and well informed members. Our Lodge Officers are also going to become more involved with our chapters, creating a strong link between the lodge and chapters.

Back in September, 200 Shawnee Lodge members participated in the Section C-5C Conclave at Camp Warren Levis. I would like to thank all of our members who attended and made this weekend memorable. One of the highlights of the weekend was the section elections. I’m proud to say that our very own, Jack O’Neill was elected the 2008 Section C-5C Chief. If you see him at our lodge functions, be sure to congratulate him on a great accomplishment.

Lastly, I hope all of you are looking forward to a phenomenal year! Don’t miss out on the programs and events the lodge and your chapters offer. I expect to see everyone at the Lodge Banquet.