Saturday in Review

Over 900 Arrowmen from all over the United States arrived at Lifeway Ridgecrest Conference Center during a three and a half hour period. Arrowmen from as far away as Hawaii and New York gathered to make friends, learn about Native American Indian culture, and enjoy the many planned events.

After keys were issued and bags were unpacked, Arrowmen put their feet up in their hotel-like accommodations and perused the first issue of The Dream Catcher, the event newsletter. Once they were well settled, many Arrowmen took the opportunity to trade patches outside the Spilman offices or grab a submarine sandwich in the cafeteria. The American Indian Activities Committee provided a Native American outfit and craft display for participants to browse and enjoy. The Activities and Recreation Committee provided sports opportunities like basketball, volleyball and miniature golf.

While some Arrowmen were eating, others were working on the scavenger hunt arranged by the Activities and Recreation Committee. To complete the hunt, Arrowmen had to successfully locate eight buildings at the conference center, the last of which was the Nibble Nook Ice Cream Parlor. Once the parlor was located, each Arrowman received a red ticket that could be redeemed for an ice cream cone.

By the time most people had completed the scavenger hunt, it was time to eat dinner and get ready for the opening gathering. The doors opened at 7:40 p.m., and a steady stream of Scouts flowed in until the gathering began. The entire auditorium was filled and the lights were dimmed. The gathering kicked off Indian Summer inspiring Arrowmen for the coming week.

In the evening, tribes gathered around Ridgecrest to form their clans. Some decided it would be a good time to turn in their tickets at the Nibble Nook for ice-cream--even though it was 61 degrees and pouring rain. Patch traders were out in force and clans started creating coup sticks. After the clan meetings, the excitement began to subside as Arrowmen retired to their rooms. Indian Summer 2003 is underway!

Revised 08/03/2003.