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NOAC 1998 Memories:

- Sunday Live
- Monday Live
- Tuesday Live
- Wednesday Live
- Thursday Live

National Convention of Lodge Chiefs and Lodge Advisers

Monday morning marked the first ever National Convention of Lodge Chiefs and Lodge Advisers. This was the first of two session attended by half of the lodge chiefs and advisers from all over the country with the other half meeting tomorrow to get together and share ideas. Josh Feigelson, the former 1995 National Chief was the Lead Cell Trainer for the event.

The program was divided into three sections. The first section of the convention was a detailed text reading of the parts of the Order of the Arrow legend and segments of different ceremonies. These text readings allowed the discussion groups to share and discuss what the Order of the Arrow means to them.

The second portion of the convention was directed towards the program side of the Order of the Arrow. Some key points that were discussed were cheerful service, brotherhood retention and new member orientation. The different discussion groups also went into such topics as lodge structure and planbook design.

Overall, this part of the program allowed lodge leaders to share what works for their lodges and ask for help to their lodge problems. Every lodge leader had several note cards which they used to exchange information such as addresses, email and names so that they can keep in touch with each other after NOAC. Another set of cards allowed leaders to write down ideas to bring back home to implement within their local lodges.

The third part of the convention consisted of a series of presentations. There was a presentation on the new OA Strategic Plan, finance, Service to America, the new  OA Handbook and the brand new Lodge Ideabook from the IMAGINE committee. Besides being briefed on the Ideabook, everyone also received a few copies that give even more ideas for lodges to use back home after NOAC ends. There was also the announcement of the first ever National Key Three Conference, to be held next summer for all Lodge and Section key three members.

Both the current 1998 National Chief and National Vice Chief were on hand to give remarks. Mathew Milleson, the National Chief, closed the event by noting, "We are a part of one organization, with one sash, with one purpose."

In a brief discussion after the event, Josh Feigelson said it was a great session, meeting all of his expectations. The purpose of the convention was to empower lodge leaders to train each other. He hopes it will be the first convention of many more to come.

Everyone present received a limited quantity patch to commemorate their involvement with the event.

Revised 8/07/98.