On
Saturday evening, Indian Summer officially began with the legend of the Order as told by Meteu in the Ordeal ceremony.
The region chiefs, national vice chief, and national chief were introduced and
each installed in their respective positions. National Chief Nick Digirolamo and National Vice Chief Rich Moore welcomed the participants and briefly explained what was in store for them
in the coming week.
A highlight of the gathering was a reenactment of the original "Ritual for the First Degree of the Wimachtendienk," the first induction ceremony performed by E. Urner Goodman and Carroll A. Edson at Treasure Island Scout Camp more than 75 years ago. Many elements of the original ceremony still exist in our modern-day ceremonies.
The
program vice chiefs (PVC) were formally introduced to all participants along
with a short description of their responsibilities. Bobby Johnson is leading the Inductions and Ceremonial Events committee where he oversees the ceremonial performance and inductions management training sessions. Nick Williams, the Activities and Recreation PVC,
is organizing and leading activities such as the Mountain Man Rendezvous on Tuesday night. Brian Love and the Support Services committee is responsible for The Dream Catcher
(the on-site publication), the live Indian Summer website, and the Tech Services committee providing the shows for the week. Jim Ross, the American Indian Activities PVC, is responsible for all American Indian events and training, including the two pow-wows during the conference.
As the evening progressed, many styles of Native American dance were performed by some of the best dancers in the country. These Arrowmen performed in several different styles including Old Style, Traditional, Fancy, and Grass.
The closing portion of the current Pre-Ordeal Ceremony was performed and a video of participants arriving and unpacking provided great entertainment. The show closed with a challenge to all Arrowmen to "seize the day!"
Revised 08/03/2003.
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