Gila Log - March 2006

LLD Training
Training that keeps it FUN
Russell Folk

As Lodge Chief, I have worked to make changes for the betterment of our lodge over the course of my term. One of the key changes I made was to start an annual Lodge Leadership Development (LLD) Training Conference. Last year we started and while attendance was low, the quality of the program was unmatched.

This summer, June 3rd, we are going to have our second annual training. This course is open to all Lodge Officers and Advisers, all Chapter Officers and Advisers, and all Committee Chairmen and their Advisers. More than open, it’s highly encouraged. It’s an action packed day meant to teach you and your co-workers how to do your jobs most effectively. Trainers throughout the Lodge will work closely with you to help prepare you for the year to come.

Every officer in the Order has an opportunity to make a difference; we want to help you be the most effective in making that difference. With the help of our trainers, your incentive and ambition, we have been granted the chance to make this coming year the best Gila Lodge has ever experienced!

So, mark your calendars–June 3, 2006–and write down your ideas. You’re invited to the greatest training conference in the area!

Have you ever wanted to do something special, unique, extraordinary? There is an amazing program that is just outside our backyard in a place known as “Scouting Paradise”. There are no words that are able to describe the grandeur of the land and no words can do justice to the significance of the program. The place is Philmont Scout Ranch. The program is the Order of the Arrow Trail Crew.
          To most Scouters there is a strong urge to experience the high adventure base of Philmont in Northern New Mexico. Its amazing sights, countless activities and breathtaking vistas that are so sought after by scout groups that it is extremely difficult to get a trek at the ranch. The OA Trail Crew program was started just over 10 years ago by the national OA committee to provide an opportunity for Arrowmen to experience the base while strengthening their understanding of the true meaning of our Order and the words Wimachtendink, Wingolauchsik, Witahemui.
          The OA Trail Crew program is two weeks long, consisting of one week of trail building in the northern Philmont area and another week of trekking a route which the crew members plan. Crew members are between the ages of 16 and 20 and come as individuals from across the country. Crews start out at base camp where they are guided by two OA Trail Crew Foreman who work as a part of the conservation department. After arriving at the worksite the crew members learn the importance of trail building and maintenance. But the lessons taught go far beyond the trail work. Throughout the entire session participants learn to test themselves and each other to find the true meaning of unselfish service.
          After their time building trail the crew visits basecamp before the start of their trek. A Trail Crew trek is like no other at Philmont. The crew’s participants get to plan their trek and decide what they want to go, see, and do throughout the ranch. Along with having the luxury of deciding the nature of their expedition the members of the crew are fortunate to have their foremen demonstrate valuable lessons along the way.
          I speak for many who have experienced the program when I say that it is the best opportunity available to arrowmen that scouting has to offer. Some argue that it is the single most gratifying experience in their entire scouting careers. This program, along with the other High Adventure programs offered through the Order of the Arrow, are a chance of a lifetime and should not be passed up by anyone. Spots in the 2005 summer are still available, so apply now!

For more information visit: adventure.oa-bsa.org/

Mt. Baldy --> Highest Peak in Philmont 12,441 ft

		On This Page:	Lodge Leadership Development Trail Crew
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