The first Very Important Arrowmen Luncheon of the 1998 NOAC was held Monday at noon in the Sun Room at Iowa State Memorial Union. This "invitation only" luncheon gives Lodge Chiefs and a new Arrowmen from their lodge the opportunity to have lunch with several prominent members of the Order of the Arrow National Committee, including the National Chief and Vice Chief.
| Another very distinguished guest was Mr. Ted Goodman. He is the son of Order of the Arrow founder, E. Urner Goodman. | |
National Vice Chief, David Petrush, explained that the VIA luncheon is the most exclusive event at NOAC. Many of the young met in the room had looks of astonishment when they realized the importance of the event.
David went on to remark that the lodge chiefs gathered at the luncheon are making the OA program a reality back in their home lodges. "If it were not for each of you dedicated and talented leaders, it would not be possible to reach as many Scouts and Scouters as the program does," he said.
"The young Arrowmen gathered here are truly the future of our Order," David continued, addressing the new Arrowmen present. "You will become the leaders of tomorrow. Let the spirit present at this conference move you to a higher level of service and commitment in your lodge and unit back home".
Later on in the program, the gentlemen from the IMAGINE committee handed out copies of the Lodge Ideabook to all present. They also mentioned that 29 of the thousands of Ideabooks they are handing out have a gold sticker inside of the front cover. This winning sticker entitles you to one of several prizes.
The room quickly erupted into an excited checking of book covers, and there were three winners at the luncheon. One youth won a free NOAC T-shirt from the Trading Post. Another one of the young VIA winners won a NOAC backpack. The third young man won a free trip to Sommers Canoe Base located in the heart of the Boundary Waters in Ely, Minnesota.
Overall, the event was a real success. The food was even better than the cafeteria food in the dorms. There will be another Very Important Arrowmen Luncheon on Wednesday. Invited participants should be sure to check their invitations and show up on time, so they don't miss out on this once in a lifetime opportunity.
Revised 8/03/98.