OA Volunteers Are Needed at National Scout Jamboree

OA volunteers are needed   National Scout Jamboree July 26 - August 4, 2010 Fort A. P. Hill near Fredericksburg, Virginia If you are interested in volunteering to be on the OA staff (youth/young adult OA volunteer 16 - 25 years old) or OA adult staff (born before July 26, 1984) at the National Scout Jamboree, SIGN UP NOW!  For more information, click HERE to view two videos, visit www.event.oa-bsa.org, and call our Lodge Adviser Rob Carlson at 914-528-9331.

OA volunteers are needed in the following areas at the National Scout Jamboree.

• OA Service Corps  The OA Service Corps will provide assistance to many of the Jamboree programs and activities.  A day for an OA Service Corps member could include serving as an aide to the Chief Scout Executive, filming with Boys' Life, working in a region action center, or one of a thousand other tasks necessary to make the Jamboree run smoothly.  There will be certain exclusive events and activities for OA Service Corps members in the evenings.  Sign up now to continue the tradition of  the OA Service Corps, which has been supporting the National Scout Jamboree since 1950.
• OA's The Mysterium Compass, an interactive experience that will test each Scout's ability to stay cool under pressure as he races from station to station in search of the Mysterium Compass.  It blends life lessons with improvisational actors, theatrical groups, and special effects.  It will combine elements of video gaming with theme-park style immersion.  The Mysterium Compass will require a huge staff of youthful Arrowmen, both youths and adults, to bring Scouting’s message to life.  Some of these roles include game managers, ushers, audio-video and lighting crew, stage managers, special effects operators, actors, lifeguards, and carpenters to build, stage and manage the newest program at the National Jamboree.
  
• College students get a big discount.
  We need both youth and youthful adults to make Mysterium Compass a success.  “Youth” staff members qualify for a major discount!  You must have been born between July 26, 1984 and July 26, 1994, and be registered members of the Boy Scouts of America to qualify.  So, if you are 16-25 years old, your registration fee will be cut in half!  The registration site is accessible through www.MyScouting.org.
• OA Indian Village, which will depict how some North American Indian tribes lived.  The American Indian Craft Zone will house some of the best creaftsmen in the OA as they help Jamobree participants learn beadwork, quillwork, finger weaving, and American Indians games.  As a part of the Merit Badge Midway, the Indian Lore merit badge will also be offered.  If you can do American Indian dances, have dance outfits, make American Indian crafts, or know American Indian history, we want you as a part of the OA Indian Village staff.
  
• The OA recently revealed the following additional program for the Jamboree.  "PACEsetters:  Leaders... for Life" uses PACE as an acronym that stands for Personal Accountability and Commitment to Excellence.  It is intended to encourage Jamboree participants to take personal responsibility for decisions that affect their health and fitness throughout their lives. Do you love sports, physical fitness, teaching others about healthy lifestyle choices?  If so, the PACEsetters want you!  On the PACEsetters staff you will be a part of something truly exciting.  A pacesetter is a person who “leads the pack”, and sets the standard by which others will follow, so, as we embark on a new century of Scouting, we will call our youth participants to be “PACEsetters  – Leaders… for Life.”  If you have an interest in serving on this exciting new initiative, please contact James Platt at drflatt@aol.com.
• For those Arrowmen who are interested in working in other National Scout Jamboree programs such as the Jamboree band, Brownsea Island, the trading posts, or Action Centers, they should follow the same registration process outlined on the National Scout Jamboree promotional web site here.

If you sign up, please contact our Lodge Chief Bobby C. and/or our Lodge Adviser Rob Carlson at 914-528-9331 so Ktemaque Lodge can keep track of who is going.

Section Conclave

Our Section NE-7B Conclave will be on June 11-13, 2010 at Camp Ranachqua at Ten Mile River Scout Camps on 1481 Crystal Lake Road, Narrowsburg, NY.  All youth and adult members are encouraged to attend this weekend full of fellowship, training, and fun.  New Ordeal members and new Brotherhood members are especially encouraged to attend. 

There will be training sessions, sports competitions, shows, movie, patch trading, some other fun activities, and lots of delicious food. 

Register online or download the mail-in registration, training, and medical forms on the Section NE-7B web site.

Click here to get driving directions from your location.  Click here for a map of Camp Ranachqua.

Section Conclave news and possible updates will be on the Section NE-7B web site.

Parking is limited.  Please carpool.  Contact Rob C., Lodge Adviser, for carpooling information.

If you have questions, contact Rob C., Lodge Adviser.

Spring Service Weekend, Spring Ordeal, and Brotherhood Quest

Our Spring Service Weekend will be May 21-23, 2010 at the Curtis S. Read Scout Reservation in Brant Lake, NY.  All youth and adult members are invited.  The Ordeal and Brotherhood Quest will be offered.

THREE forms are REQUIRED to register for the Spring Service Weekend and/or Brotherhood Quest.

Spring Service Weekend registration form (FILLABLE pdf format)

Part A on page 2 "Annual Health and Medical Record" (FILLABLE pdf format)

Part C on page 4 "Annual Health and Medical Record" (FILLABLE pdf format)

SIGNATURE IS REQUIRED on page 4.

These forms may be filled out on your computer using the fillable pdf format by clicking the links above and typing the information onto the text fields.  If you use your computer to fill out these forms, it is helpful to click "Highlight Fields" on the right side of the purple bar in the upper right corner of the form to make it easier to see the required information.

Or one may click on the links above, print the forms, and then complete the forms by hand, if desired.  Please print clearly.

The Spring Service Weekend registration form is also in the Beaver Tracks January - March 2010 newsletter.

Round-trip transportation in the Council van from the Council Service Center in Hawthorne to Curtis S. Read Scout Reservation in Brant Lake, NY is $30, but spaces are very limited.  Send in your registration form and payment early to reserve a first-come, first-served space in the van.  Those who registered and paid in advance to travel to Camp Read in a Council van should arrive at the Westchester-Putnam Council parking lot before 5:00 p.m. on Friday.  All passengers riding in the Council van MUST bring a copy of their Part A on page 2 and Part C on page 4 of their "Annual Health and Medical Record" forms.  Contact Rob C., Lodge Adviser, (914) 528-9331 if you have questions about the Council van transportation.

Ordeal Candidates check in Friday from 9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Camp Buckskin Dining Hall at Read Scout Reservation with your official uniform in your backpack.  All other members check in Friday from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Camp Buckskin Dining Hall at Read Scout Reservation with your official uniform and OA sash in your backpack.  Eat supper before you arrive.  The weekend activities are finished Sunday about 11:00 a.m.

Ordeal candidates should bring all the items listed in the letter they received in April.  Others should bring work clothes, work gloves, water bottle, clothes to dress for the weather (it can get cold or rain), sleeping bag, pillow (optional), and personal care items.  Adults with carpentry or electrical skills should bring their own personal tools.  This year we shall be working on many projects all around camp in preparation for its opening this summer.

Bring about $20 in small bills if you want to purchase Ktemaque Lodge and Order of the Arrow items at the Ktemaque Lodge Trading Post.

All brothers who want to help the candidates experience a quality Ordeal by assisting as an Elangomat should contact Head Elangomat in advance.  Training is available.

Join the Ceremonies team and help the candidates experience an Ordeal Ceremony that they'll never forget!  Contact Tommy R., the Ceremonies Chairman.  Ordeal members and Brotherhood members are welcome to join the Ceremonies team.  Costumes are supplied and training is available.

Our lodge will hold its annual election of lodge officers.  If you are interested in serving in a lodge leadership position, please contact Robert C., Lodge Adviser, (914) 528-9331 by May 8 to discuss the position and its responsibilities, and get answers to your questions.  Then, please notify Robert C., Lodge Adviser by May 14 to be approved if you are interested in running for a lodge leadership position.

Those members who are fairly new to the lodge may not have the faintest clue as to how someone becomes the Lodge Chief.  Some common questions he might ask could be:

What are the qualifications?
Do you have to be a certain rank?
What are the duties?
Do you have to be a certain age?
Do I need my Unit Leader's permission?

Here is a little background information that will assist in the answers to these questions.

All elected lodge officers must be under the age of 21 during their entire term in office.  It is each officer's responsibility to attend all Lodge Executive Committee Meetings (usually held on the 4th Tuesday beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the Council Service Center in Hawthorne) and lodge events.  Lodge officers plan all lodge events as well as develop an annual operating budget.  All officers must make every effort to attend all lodge meetings and functions.  Contact Robert C., Lodge Adviser (914) 528-9331 for more information.

Here is a brief list and explanations of the lodge officer positions:

LODGE CHIEF
He is responsible for the daily operations of the Lodge and coordination of all events and programs through the other youth.  He presides over all of the Lodge and the Lodge Executive Committee.  Most importantly, he must be able to delegate authority, follow up, and remain in control.

VICE CHIEF OF PROGRAM
He is responsible for all of the lodge programs and activities.  He is the head honcho over the Ceremonial Committee and will take over the Lodge Chief's responsibilities in his absence.

VICE CHIEF OF OPERATIONS
His responsibilities are the operations of the five Districts.  He is responsible for the Unit Elections and the Camp Promotions Committees in each district.  He is also responsible for the OA Troop Representative program.

VICE CHIEF OF COMMUNICATIONS
He is responsible for the Lodge records and publications.  He prepares the Beaver Tracks lodge newsletter, maintains the Ktemaque Lodge web site, and promotes participation in OA events and activities.  He also takes the Lodge Executive Committee Meeting Minutes and sends it to the Lodge Executive Committee.  He works with the Lodge Chief to prepare meeting agendas.

VICE CHIEF OF SERVICE
He is responsible for all the service projects of the Lodge.  He works with the Council Camping Committee to prepare camp maintenance projects for the lodge service weekends.

There will be a mandatory training meeting for all officers in the future at a location to be decided..

If you have questions about the Spring Service Weekend, please contact Bobby C., Lodge Chief, or Rob C., Lodge Adviser, (914) 528-9331.

Check back here later for updates.

Lodge Leadership Development

All youth and adult members of Ktemaque Lodge are invited to attend Lodge Leadership Development classes, which will be held on Saturday, March 27, 2010 from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Westchester-Putnam Council's University of Scouting at Pace University in Pleasantville, NY.  Click here for details about the classes, fee, etc.  The Order of the Arrow classes are listed in the "Department of Scouting Service (Order of the Arrow)" section near the bottom of the web page.  Register online for Lodge Leadership Development classes before March 26.

Centennial Celebration Breakfast

Ktemaque Lodge's Centennial Celebration Breakfast
- A Salute to Service in Scouting -
NEW DATE  Saturday, January 9, 2010
9:00 a.m. to 12 noon
Royal Regency Hotel in the Diamond Room
165 Tuckahoe Road
Yonkers, NY

Fee:  $17 per person

Our Program Committee is preparing a great program for our Centennial Celebration Breakfast.  Awards and recognitions will be presented, there will be an OA high adventures presentation, information about the National Order of the Arrow Conference (NOAC), a skit about how the BSA began 100 years ago will be performed, our Lodge leaders will be there and look forward to talking with you, and the food will be delicious!

All lodge members and their family members are invited.  This is a family event, so parents, siblings, and other family members are welcome to attend.

Everyone who completed their Ordeal, Brotherhood Quest, or received the Vigil Honor in 2009 should attend.  Everyone who completed his Ordeal or Brotherhood Quest in 2009 will receive a certificate.

Pre-registration and pre-payment are required.  NO WALK INS!  Registration form and payment MUST BE POSTMARKED NO LATER THAN DECEMBER 18!  The banquet registration form is in the Beaver Tracks October - December 2009 issue and is on the Forms web page.

Our delicious breakfast buffet will consist of:

• Fluffy scrambled eggs
• Country sausage
• Crisp bacon
• Homemade breakfast potatoes
• Waffles
• Pancakes
• Freshly baked bagels
• Muffins
• Croissants
• Danishes
• French rolls
• Sweet butter
• Assorted fruit preserves
• Freshly brewed coffee
• Decaffeinated coffee
• Assorted teas
• Orange juice
  

Directions to the Royal Regency Hotel in Yonkers:

• Get directions from your location

• Written directions to the Royal Regency Hotel

Order of the Arrow and Ktemaque Lodge items will be for sale.  See Mr. Jess H.  Bring small bills or your check to pay for purchases.

Everyone who wants to become more active in our lodge should talk to our Lodge Chief Bobby C. or any of the Vice Chiefs or Advisers.

Wear your official uniform with your OA sash.

If you have questions, please contact Vice Chief of Program Joel S. or Program Associate Adviser Matthew M.

See you there!

Check here for possible updates.

Dues

The deadline to pay your Ktemaque Lodge dues is December 31.  The dues are $10 for one year or $27 for three years.

Look in the upper left corner of the address label on your Beaver Tracks newsletter to find the year that your Ktemaque Lodge membership expires.  If the printed year is 2009, then your Ktemaque Lodge membership expires on December 31, 2009.  Mail the dues form with your payment to the Westchester-Putnam Council by December 31, 2009.

The dues payment form is in the Beaver Tracks October - December 2009 issue, in the Westchester-Putnam Council office, and it is also on the Ktemaque Lodge "Forms" web page.  Click on "Forms" on the left side of this Ktemaque web page.

Questions about your Ktemaque Lodge membership should be submitted in writing to Bob F., Membership Adviser.

Bob F., Membership Adviser
Ktemaque Lodge, WWW
Order of the Arrow
Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA
41 Saw Mill River Road
Hawthorne, NY   10532-1519

Popcorn Distribution

Ktemaque Lodge needs volunteers, both adults and youths, to assist with Council's popcorn distribution on Saturday, December 5, 2009.  The popcorn sale is a major fundraiser for both our units and our Council.  Youth and adult volunteers are needed to assist with loading the popcorn boxes into unit leaders cars at each of the four pick-up sites.  Scouts may earn service hours.

The distribution begins at 8:00 AM and will end by 1:00 PM.  Come help for any time between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.  The four sites are:

Best Plumbing (loading dock at rear of building), 3333 Crompond Rd., Yorktown Heights, NY

Whalen's Moving & Storage, 39 Kiscona Road, Mount Kisco, NY

RCI, 179 Saw Mill River Rd., Yonkers, NY

Food PATCH, 358 Saw Mill River Rd., Millwood, NY

Click on an address above to get driving directions from your location.

If you can assist the Council and provide cheerful service, please contact Roberto B., Vice Chief of Service at ServiceViceChief@Ktemaque.org or Norm Herman, Service Adviser at nlherman@med.cornell.edu.

Please wear your official uniform and Order of the Arrow sash.  Dress warmly for working outdoors.

Thunderbird Games

Many volunteers are needed to help our OA Service Corps at the Thunderbird Games at Croton Point Park in Croton-On-Hudson.  Ktemaque Lodge shall run two games (Earth Ball Game and Sack Races) for the Cub Scouts on Saturday, October 17 from 12 noon to 4 p.m. and shall be available to help in other ways.  Volunteers are also needed to do skits during the evening program on Saturday beginning at 7 p.m.  Volunteers should wear their official uniform with their OA sash.

All Ktemaque Lodge volunteers must sign in with our Lodge Chief Bobby C. so he will know who participated.  All volunteers will receive a Thunderbird Games patch.  Scouts may earn service hours for rank advancement.

To sign up or to ask questions, contact our Service Vice Chief Roberto B. at ServiceViceChief@Ktemaque.org or our Service Adviser Norm H. at nlherman@med.cornell.edu.

Fall Service Weekend, Fall Ordeal, and Brotherhood Quest

The Fall Service Weekend, Ordeal, and Brotherhood Quest will be held September 25-27, 2009 at Durland Scout Reservation at Clear Lake, 1 Clear Lake Road, in Putnam Valley, NY.

Register in advance (NO WALK-INS) using the 2009 Fall Service Weekend registration forms:

Three forms are required to register for the 2009 Fall Service Weekend.

• Registration form (page 1 of 3)
  
• Medical form (page 2 of 3)
  
• Informed Consent/Talent Release form (page 3 of 3)
  

These three forms are also in the Beaver Tracks July - September 2009 issue, which was mailed to all dues-paid members.

Mail these three forms with the appropriate fee to the Council Service Center postmarked by September 18.  Your check should be made payable to "Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA".  Write "OA Account #1-2371-000-00" in the memo section of your check.  Make sure your  medical form (see above) is submitted with your registration form and informed consent form.  No one will be allowed in camp without one.  These forms are on the Ktemaque Lodge web site's "Forms" web page and is also in the Beaver Tracks July - September 2009 newsletter, which was mailed to all dues-paid members.

This weekend event is held rain or shine.

This map has optional driving directions to Durland Scout Reservation from your location.

Eat supper before you arrive.

Bring about $20 cash in small bills to purchase Order of the Arrow items at the Order of the Arrow Trading Post on Saturday evening, if desired.

Ordeal for Scouts

Scouts who were elected to the OA in 2009 and did not do their Ordeal in the spring need to register in advance (no walk-ins) for their Ordeal during the Fall Service Weekend.  This is the last opportunity this year to do an Ordeal.  Register in advance using the "2009 Candidate Information and Registration Form" that was mailed after April 1, and note especially the list of things to bring.  Mail the registration form, “Personal Health & Medical Record Permission Slip”, and check made payable to the "Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA" to the Council Service Center postmarked by September 18.  Write "OA Fall Ordeal Account #1-2371-000-00" in the memo section of the check.  Eat supper BEFORE you arrive.  The Ordeal will end approximately 11:00 a.m. Sunday.

Everyone should arrive wearing their official uniform on Friday.

Any Scout who was elected in 2009 and did not attend the spring or fall Ordeal needs to be re-elected in 2010 unless he requests, in writing, a waiver due to a medical/family emergency.  Please email the Vice Chief of Operations or Operations Adviser, Alex W.  See the Contact Us web page.

Ordeal for Scouters

Candidates approved in 2009 for participation in the induction process were notified by mail of their selection.  Any of those Scouters who did not attend the 2009 Spring Ordeal need to register in advance for his/her Ordeal during the Fall Service Weekend.  This is the last opportunity this year to do an Ordeal.  Register in advance (no walk-ins) using the "2009 Candidate Information and Registration Form" that was mailed to the approved Candidates in April.  Mail the registration form, “Personal Health & Medical Record Permission Slip”, and check made payable to the "Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA" with the appropriate fee to the Council Service Center postmarked by September 18.  Write "OA Fall Ordeal Account #1-2371-000-00" in the memo section of the check.  Eat supper BEFORE you arrive.  The Ordeal will end approximately 11:00 a.m. Sunday.  Scouters are encouraged to bring tools of their trade that would be helpful in camp maintenance.

What to wear
Everyone should arrive wearing their official uniform on Friday.  Bring work clothes and work gloves.

Any Scouter who was approved for participation in the induction process in 2009 and did not attend the spring or fall Ordeal needs to be re-nominated in 2010 unless he requests, in writing, a waiver due to a medical/family emergency.  Please email the Vice Chief of Operations or Operations Adviser Alex W.  See the Contact Us web page.

Brotherhood Quest

Click here to watch a Brotherhood video ad.  It lasts less than one minute.

If you have been active in the lodge for ten months or more since completing your Ordeal, now is your chance to become a Brotherhood member of our Lodge!  All Ordeal members should complete their Brotherhood Quest.  Completion of the Brotherhood Quest signifies full membership in the Order of the Arrow.

Brotherhood requirements are:

• completed 10 months of unit service as an Ordeal member.

• maintained your registered membership in Scouting

• maintained your registered membership in the Order of the Arrow

• memorized the Obligation, the Order of the Arrow Official Song, the Admonition, the sign of Ordeal membership, and the Arrow handclasp (See the Order of the Arrow Handbook.)
  

• gained a thorough understanding of the Ordeal through which you have passed (See "The Customs and Traditions of the Ordeal" in the Order of the Arrow Handbook.)

The Brotherhood Quest is a way to reaffirm your dedication to the Order and its ideals.  It is also an invitation to get more involved in the Lodge.

Register in advance (no walk-ins) for your Brotherhood Quest using the 2009 Fall Service Weekend registration form", medical form, and informed consent form that are on the "Forms" webpage, and mail with the appropriate fee to the Council Service Center postmarked by September 18.

For the September 25-27 Brotherhood Quest arrive Friday between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. wearing your official uniform and your Ordeal sash.  Bring a water bottle, old work clothes, clothing for the weather, a sleeping bag, and your backpack.

We encourage everyone to attend the entire weekend, but if your time is very limited you may do your Brotherhood Quest on Saturday, September 26 from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Durland Scout Reservation.  Check in at the Jones Cabin on Saturday at 10:00 a.m.  Saturday-only participants should arrange in advance to be picked up Saturday at 9:00 p.m. at the Jones Cabin.  Be sure to check "Saturday only" on your registration form.  The Saturday-only fee includes lunch and supper.

Be sure to mail your registration form, medical form, informed consent form, and payment in advance.

Schedule for Fall Service Weekend, Fall Ordeal, and Brotherhood Quest

Friday, September 25

7:00 p.m.

• Staff (Elangomats, Ceremony Team, Lodge Executive Committee members, and staff adults) arrive to set up.  Check in at the Campmaster Cabin, and receive additional instructions, if needed.
• Everyone should arrive wearing their official uniform and OA sash.
  

8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

• Ordeal Candidates and Brotherhood Quest candidates arrive and CHECK IN at the Campmaster Cabin.
• Park in the parking lot next to the Campmaster Cabin.
• Scouts should leave their gear in their car, and go into the Campmaster Cabin with one parent (or responsible adult) to check in.
• Everyone should arrive wearing their official uniform and OA sash (if they have one).
• The latrine is the smaller building across the parking lot from the Campmaster Cabin.
• After check in, scouts should go to Sperling Center.  Scouts say goodbye to their parents.  Parents leave.
• Scouts bring their gear to Sperling Center, and wait in Sperling Center for their Ordeal or Brotherhood Quest to begin.
  

Ordeal and Brotherhood Quest begins

• When it is time for the Ordeal or Brotherhood Quest to begin, instructions will be given at Sperling Center.

Saturday, September 26

Ordeal and Brotherhood Quest continue.

Those not participating in their Ordeal or Brotherhood Quest will do a service project.

Sunday, September 27

11:00 a.m.

• Scouts are picked up at Sperling Center. 
  

All brothers who want to help the candidates experience a quality Ordeal by assisting as an Elangomat should contact the Program Vice Chief in advance.  Training is available.

Join the Ceremonies team and help the candidates experience an Ordeal Ceremony that they'll never forget!  Contact the Program Vice Chief.  Members who have completed their Ordeal and Brotherhood members are welcome to join the Ceremonies team.  Costumes are supplied.  Training is available.

Questions
Contact our Lodge Chief or Mr. Rob Carlson, Lodge Adviser if you have questions about the Ordeal, Brotherhood Quest, or Fall Service Weekend.  See the Contact Us web page.

Check back here later for possible updates.

National Order of the Arrow Conference

All youth and adult members are invited to attend the National Order of the Arrow Conference (NOAC) on August 1-6, 2009 at Indiana University in Bloomington, IN.  Over 8,000 Arrowmen will come together to have fun, learn new things, and celebrate the best the OA has to offer.  This six-day adventure is unlike any other event in Scouting, and only OA members can participate.

A typical NOAC day covers all aspects of the OA.  In the morning, you can pick your choice of world-class training sessions ranging from Leadership, to Indian Crafts, to Ceremonies, to High Adventure Skills, and more.  The afternoon brings sports, competitions, special events, and more.  After dinner, you get to see an outstanding Evening Show with a new show each night.  After the show, there are open activities, patch trading, and just hanging out with your friends.

To better understand a NOAC, click here to view a promotional video.

The expected cost is $650 per Arrowman.  We'll stay in dorm rooms (most are air-conditioned) on the Indiana University campus.  Ktemaque Lodge will travel by bus, stopping enroute at the Cedar Point amusement park in Ohio.

If you are interested in going to this unforgetable event and for more information, click here.  Contact Brandon A. or Mr. Robert C. for further registration and transportation information.

If you are interested in purchasing patches, trading patches are available for $10 and fund raising for $25 (both plus $1.50 for shipping) and numbered sets for $80.

Don't miss going to this National Order of the Arrow Conference, because the next one will be held in 2012.

Ktemaque Lodge's NOAC 2009 patches are for sale.

• $10 trading patches with red border
• $25 fund raising patches with yellow border
• $80 numbered sets with silver border contingent patch

Add $1.50 for shipping.

If you have questions or to order patches, please contact Rob C., Lodge Adviser.

Section Conclave

Our Section NE-7B Conclave will be on June 12-14, 2009 at Camp Tri-Mount Scout Reservation (map to camp) on Boy Scout Road, East Jewett, NY in the Catskills.  Click here to get driving directions from your location.

This is the first Section Conclave for our newly formed Section NE-7B.

There are 3 separate forms that each individual must fill out and return with their prepayment to register for the event:

• Registration Form (general information, registration fee and conclave patch and shirt pre-order)
• Medical Form  Registration is not complete without a medical form.  If you show up at the Section Conclave and do not have a properly filled out medical form on file or in your possession, you will not be entitled to enter the event.  Unfortunately, no exceptions can be allowed on this important manner.
• Training Selection Form (for youth and adults)

These three forms are available in PDF format both separately and in a combined PDF document on the Forms web page and are also on the Section NE-7B web site.

Online registration is available on the Section NE-7B web site.

No walk-ins are permitted.  Everyone must pre-register and pre-pay.

New Ordeal members inducted in May may register with the $25 registration fee and not pay late fees.

The deadline for early registration is May 10, 2009.  Your registration form, medical form, training selection form, and payment must be received by May 10.  After May 10 the registration fees increase (See registration form).  No registration will be accepted after June 11.

Saturday morning training sessions include camp cooking, Native American crafts, I'm Ordeal (for new Ordeal members), Brotherhood and Beyond, Ceremony Team, Managing Time, Priorities, and Resources, and many others.

There will be lots of games, fun activities, and evening programs for everyone to enjoy!

We are very fortunate to have the honor of the National Chief Jack O'Neill and the National Vice Chief Dan Higham attend our Section Conclave as guests.  This is a great opportunity to meet and speak to our national youth officers.

All Section Conclave attendees are requested to bring with them one or more patches to donate to the Section Patch Auction to be held at the Section Conclave.  The proceeds from the patch auction help fund our Section for the upcoming year and is a vital source of income at our Section Conclave.  Patch trading is encouraged at the Section Conclave, but the Section Council of Chiefs has determined that there will be no patch trading during the training periods.

Attendees will be housed in tents with cots.  No mattresses will be provided.  All attendees are requested to bring a mattress, cardboard, or some other item to place on the cot between the springs and your sleeping bag.

All attendees are urged to bring proper shoes or boots to deal with the rugged terrain at Camp Tri-Mount Scout Reservation.  Most walking is either up or down a hill and shoes or boots providing proper support are encouraged. 

Camp Tri-Mount Scout Reservation has bears in the vicinity.  NEVER HAVE FOOD IN YOUR CAMPSITE OR IN YOUR TENT.

Our Section has earned the Quality Section Award.  Quality Section Patches will be available to purchase at the Section Conclave at the Trading Post.  We have reserved this opportunity and privilege for those brothers supporting our Section by attending the Section Conclave.

We expect to have limited quantities of the Section Conclave Patches and Shirts available at the event on a first-come first-served basis.  If you did not preorder the items you may still have a chance to get them at the trading post at the Section Conclave.  Remember this is our first Section Conclave of our new Section.

Check-in Friday from 7:00 p.m. until 12:00 midnight.

Ktemaque Lodge is in charge of the Friday night activities.  VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED to help run these activities.  These helpers need to arrive about 5:00 p.m. Friday.

8:45 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

• Ice Breaker
• Ballon Darts
• Ring Toss
• Bocci
• Wheel of Fortune (about 45 minutes)
• Cracker Barrel (about 30 minutes)

Saturday afternoon activities will include mountain boarding (a cross between mountain biking, snow boarding, and skate boarding), COPE course, soccer, volleyball, ultimate frisbee, archery, waterfront activities, Native American dance competition, and a rifle tournament.

Saturday evening show will be full of audience participation.

After the Saturday evening show, there will be a Karaoke contest and a pie eating contest followed by a cracker barrel.

Let's try to get as many youth as possible to this event (Clayton W. promised a 30 youth contingent) so we can have a well-run program and have a good presence.  Make sure you register now!

Mike K., our Section Chief (and member of Nacha Nimat Lodge) put out a challenge.  If 250 OA members attend this year's Section Conclave Mike has promised to shave his head at the Saturday Night Program, which Nacha Nimat is running.  Sign up and be there when Mike shaves his head!

Sign up in advance for an optional Friday evening dinner held 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Section Conclave news will be on the Section NE-7B web site.

Check back here later for possible updates.

If you have questions, contact Rob C., Lodge Adviser.

Mandatory training for Ktemaque Lodge officers

Mandatory Training for Ktemaque Lodge Officers
Saturday, June 6, 2009
1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Yorktown Church of the Nazarene
1243 White Hill Road
Yorktown Heights, NY

Wear your official uniform with your OA sash.  Bring a pad of paper and a pen.

• Introductions, if needed
• Positions responsibilities
• Back date the entire Lodge year
• Break into Vice Chief/Chairman and Adviser groups
• Get to know one another better
• Details about what to do to fulfill their responsibilities
• One hour leadership training session (based on NLS)
• Eat some pizza
• Questions and answers

If you have questions, contact Brandon A., Lodge Chief, or Mr. Rob C., Lodge Adviser.

Spring Service Weekend, Spring Ordeal, and Brotherhood Quest

Our Spring Service Weekend will be May 15-17, 2009 at the Curtis S. Read Scout Reservation in Brant Lake, NY.  All youth and adult members are invited.  The Ordeal and Brotherhood Quest will be offered.

Mail the registration form, the Personal Health and Medical Record Class 1 form, and your check postmarked no later than May 8, 2009.  These forms are on the Forms web page and also in the April - June 2009 issue of the Beaver Tracks newsletter.

Round-trip transportation in the Council van from the Council Service Center in Hawthorne to Curtis S. Read Scout Reservation in Brant Lake, NY is $30, but spaces are very limited.  Send in your registration form and payment early to reserve a first-come, first-served space in the van.  Those who registered and paid in advance to travel to Camp Read in a Council van should arrive at the Westchester-Putnam Council parking lot before 5:00 p.m. on Friday.  All passengers riding in the Council van MUST bring a copy of their Personal Health and Medical Record Class 1 form.  Contact Rob C., Lodge Adviser, (914) 528-9331 if you have questions about the Council van transportation.

Ordeal Candidates check in Friday from 9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Camp Buckskin Dining Hall at Read Scout Reservation with your official uniform in your backpack.  All other members check in Friday from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Camp Buckskin Dining Hall at Read Scout Reservation with your official uniform and OA sash in your backpack.  Eat supper before you arrive.  The weekend activities are finished Sunday about 11:00 a.m.

Ordeal candidates should bring all the items listed in the letter they received in April.  Others should bring work clothes, work gloves, water bottle, clothes to dress for the weather (it can get cold or rain), sleeping bag, pillow (optional), and personal care items.  Adults with carpentry or electrical skills should bring their own personal tools.  This year we shall be working on many projects all around camp in preparation for its opening this summer.

Bring about $20 in small bills if you want to purchase Ktemaque Lodge and Order of the Arrow items at the Ktemaque Lodge Trading Post.

All brothers who want to help the candidates experience a quality Ordeal by assisting as an Elangomat should contact Head Elangomat James M. in advance.  Training is available.

Join the Ceremonies team and help the candidates experience an Ordeal Ceremony that they'll never forget!  Contact David M, the Ceremonies Chairman.  Ordeal members and Brotherhood members are welcome to join the Ceremonies team.  Costumes are supplied and training is available.

On Saturday the lodge will hold its annual election of lodge officers.  The election will be held in the Camp Buckskin Dining Hall.  If you are interested in serving in a lodge leadership position, please contact Robert C., Lodge Adviser, (914) 528-9331 by May 8 to discuss the position and its responsibilities, and get answers to your questions.  Then, please notify Robert C., Lodge Adviser by May 11 to be approved if you are interested in running for a lodge leadership position.

Those members who are fairly new to the lodge may not have the faintest clue as to how someone becomes the Lodge Chief.  Some common questions he might ask could be:

What are the qualifications?
Do you have to be a certain rank?
What are the duties?
Do you have to be a certain age?
Do I need my Unit Leader's permission?

Here is a little background information that will assist in the answers to these questions.

All elected lodge officers must be under the age of 21 during their entire term in office.  It is each officer's responsibility to attend all Lodge Executive Committee Meetings (usually held on the 4th Tuesday beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the Council Service Center in Hawthorne) and lodge events.  Lodge officers plan all lodge events as well as develop an annual operating budget.  All officers must make every effort to attend all lodge meetings and functions.  Contact Robert C., Lodge Adviser (914) 528-9331 for more information.

Here is a brief list and explanations of the lodge officer positions:

LODGE CHIEF
He is responsible for the daily operations of the Lodge and coordination of all events and programs through the other youth.  He presides over all of the Lodge and the Lodge Executive Committee.  Most importantly, he must be able to delegate authority, follow up, and remain in control.

VICE CHIEF OF PROGRAM
He is responsible for all of the lodge programs and activities.  He is the head honcho over the Ceremonial Committee and will take over the Lodge Chief's responsibilities in his absence.

VICE CHIEF OF OPERATIONS
His responsibilities are the operations of the five Districts.  He is responsible for the Unit Elections and the Camp Promotions Committees in each district.  He is also responsible for the OA Troop Representative program.

VICE CHIEF OF COMMUNICATIONS
He is responsible for the Lodge records and publications.  He prepares the Beaver Tracks lodge newsletter, maintains the Ktemaque Lodge web site, and promotes participation in OA events and activities.  He also takes the Lodge Executive Committee Meeting Minutes and sends it to the Lodge Executive Committee.  He works with the Lodge Chief to prepare meeting agendas.

VICE CHIEF OF SERVICE
He is responsible for all the service projects of the Lodge.  He works with the Council Camping Committee to prepare camp maintenance projects for the lodge service weekends.

There will be a mandatory training meeting for all officers in the future.  Tentatively, it will be held in the afternoon on June 6 at a location to be decided..

If you have questions about the Spring Service Weekend, please contact Clayton W., Lodge Chief, or Rob C., Lodge Adviser, (914) 528-9331.

Check back here later for updates.

AmeriCares

AmeriCares, our lodge's annual community service project, will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2009 from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. rain or shine at 6 Woodbrook Road in Pleasantville, NY.  Come for as many hours as you choose.

AmeriCares HomeFront is a community-based volunteer home repair program that helps homeowners who are physically or financially unable to maintain their properties.  Work is done at no cost to the homeowners.

All youths 13 years old and older, and adults may participate.  You do not have to be an Order of the Arrow member to participate.  Scouts may earn service hours for rank advancement.  Unskilled as well as skilled people are needed.

A free HomeFront t-shirt, snacks, and beverages will be provided to all who attend.

We will be doing painting and yard work.  Wear work clothes.  Bring work gloves and if you want to paint, plastic painting gloves.

Sign up in advance so there will be enough food and supplies.  To sign up or ask a question, contact Tucker W., AmeriCares Chairman or Norm Herman, Service Adviser, at (914) 850-4391.

Fellowship Weekend and Brotherhood Quest

All youth and adult members are invited to attend our Fellowship Weekend on April 3-5, 2009 at Durland Scout Reservation (formerly known as Clear Lake Scout Reservation) in Putnam Valley, NY.  Flyer.  Click here for a GoogleMap with optional driving directions from your location to Durland Scout Reservation in Putnam Valley.

There will be endless FUN (no work) with movies, games, sports, and abundant food.   Activities being planned are Archery, Axe Throwing, Wiffle Ball, Capture the Flag, and a Geo-caching course.

This year's menu is a Canadian Lumberjack breakfast, a Mexican-inspired lunch, and a Hawaiian Luau Dinner.  Bring any Hawaiian clothing or Hawaiian-inspired items for the Luau.

Mail the registration form, the Personal Health and Medical Record Class 1 form, and your check postmarked no later than March 27, 2009.  These forms are on the Forms web page and in the January - March 2009 issue of the Beaver Tracks newsletter.

Members are encouraged to attend the entire weekend, but you do not have to be there the entire weekend.  If you have another commitment (sports game, party, family event, or other commitment) it is ok.  You may attend when you are available during the weekend.  There are a few members who can attend on Saturday only.  Those members may come Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and check in at the Oak Cabin.  The Saturday-only fee includes lunch and dinner.

Ordeal members who are eligible for Brotherhood may complete their Brotherhood Questrequired.  Use the Fellowship Weekend registration form and medical form on the Forms web page.  The deadline is March 27, 2009 to register for your Brotherhood Quest.  We encourage everyone to attend the entire weekend, but if your time is very limited, you may do your Brotherhood Quest on Saturday, April 4 from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.  Check in at the Oak Cabin Saturday at 10:00 a.m.  Arrange in advance to be picked up Saturday at 9:00 p.m. at the Oak Cabin.  Be sure to check Brotherhood Quest on your registration form.

Bring your own hot cup (labeled with your name), clothing so you may dress for the weather, a sleeping bag, and a pillow (optional).  We will eat and sleep in cabins.

Check-in Friday, April 3 from 9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Oak Cabin.  Arrive wearing your official uniform with your Order of the Arrow sash.  We will stay in the Birch, Maple, and Oak cabins (map showing the location of the cabins).  Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ONLY participants check-in anytime at the Oak cabin.

Pick up Sunday at 9:30 a.m. at the Oak Cabin.

If you have questions about the Fellowship Weekend, please contact Eric D., Fellowship Chairman or Mr. Fred Compton, Fellowship Adviser.

Lodge Leadership Development

Lodge Leadership Development classes will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2009 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Westchester-Putnam Council's University of Scouting at Pace University in Pleasantville, NY.  Click here for details about the classes, fee, etc.  The Order of the Arrow classes are listed in the "Department of Scouting Service" section near the bottom of the web page.  Register online for Lodge Leadership Development classes before March 20.

Fall Ordeal/Brotherhood and Service Weekend

The Ordeal/Brotherhood and Fall Service Weekend will be September 19-21, 2008 at Durland Scout Reservation at Clear Lake, 1 Clear Lake Road, in Putnam Valley, NY.

Register in advance (no walk-ins) using the 2008 Fall Service Weekend Registration Form and medical form - 2 pages and mail it with the appropriate fee to the Council Service Center postmarked by September 12.  Your check should be made payable to "Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA".  Write "OA Fall Weekend Account #1-2371-000-00" in the memo section of your check.  Make sure your Personal Health & Medical Record Permission Slip form is submitted with your registration form.  No one will be allowed in camp without one.  These forms are on the Ktemaque Lodge web site's "Forms" web page and will also be in the Beaver Tracks July - September 2008 newsletter.

This weekend event is held rain or shine.

This map has optional driving directions to Clear Lake Scout Reservation from your location.

Eat supper before you arrive.

Bring about $20 cash in small bills to purchase Order of the Arrow items at the Order of the Arrow Trading Post on Saturday evening, if desired.

Ordeal for Scouts

Scouts who were elected to the OA in 2008 and did not do their Ordeal in the spring need to register in advance (no walk-ins) for their Ordeal during the Fall Service Weekend.  This is the last opportunity this year to do an Ordeal.  Register in advance using the "2008 Candidate Information and Registration Form" that was mailed after April 1, and note especially the list of things to bring.  Mail the registration form, Personal Health & Medical Record Permission Slip, and your check made payable to the "Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA" to the Council Service Center postmarked by September 12.  Write "OA Fall Ordeal Account #1-2371-000-00" in the memo section of the check.  Eat supper BEFORE you arrive.  The Ordeal will end approximately 11:00 a.m. Sunday.

Everyone should arrive wearing their official uniform on Friday.

Any Scout who was elected in 2008 and did not attend the spring or fall Ordeal needs to be re-elected in 2009 unless he requests, in writing, a waiver due to a medical/family emergency.  Please email the Vice Chief of Operations, Joe C. or Operations Adviser, Alex W.  See the Contact Us web page.

Ordeal for Scouters

Candidates approved in 2008 for participation in the induction process were notified by mail of their selection.  Any of those Scouters who did not attend the 2008 spring Ordeal need to register in advance for his/her Ordeal during the Fall Service Weekend.  This is the last opportunity this year to do an Ordeal.  Register in advance (no walk-ins) using the "2008 Candidate Information and Registration Form" that was mailed to the approved Candidates.  Mail the registration form, “Personal Health & Medical Record Permission Slip”, and check made payable to the "Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA" with the appropriate fee to the Council Service Center postmarked by September 12.  Scouters are encouraged to bring tools of their trade that would be helpful in camp maintenance.

What to wear
Everyone should arrive wearing their official uniform on Friday.  Bring work clothes and work gloves.

Any Scouter who was approved for participation in the induction process in 2008 and did not attend the spring or fall Ordeal needs to be re-nominated in 2009 unless he requests, in writing, a waiver due to a medical/family emergency.  Please email the Vice Chief of Operations, Joe C. or Operations Adviser Alex W.  See the Contact Us webpage.

Brotherhood Quest

Click here to watch a Brotherhood video ad.  It lasts less than one minute.

If you have been active in the lodge for ten months or more since completing your Ordeal, now is your chance to become a Brotherhood member of our Lodge!  All Ordeal members should complete their Brotherhood Quest.  Completion of the Brotherhood Quest signifies full membership in the Order of the Arrow.

Brotherhood requirements are:

• completed 10 months of unit service as an Ordeal member.

• maintained your registered membership in Scouting

• maintained your registered membership in the Order of the Arrow

• memorized the Obligation, the Order of the Arrow Official Song, the Admonition, the sign of Ordeal membership, and the Arrow handclasp (See the Order of the Arrow Handbook.)
  

• gained a thorough understanding of the Ordeal through which you have passed (See "The Customs and Traditions of the Ordeal" in the Order of the Arrow Handbook.)

The Brotherhood Quest is a way to reaffirm your dedication to the Order and its ideals.  It is also an invitation to get more involved in the Lodge.

Register in advance (no walk-ins) for your Brotherhood Quest using the "2008 Fall Service Weekend Registration Form" and "Personal Health and Medical Record Form" that are on the "Forms" webpage, and mail with the appropriate fee to the Council Service Center postmarked by September 12.

For the September 19-21 Brotherhood Quest arrive Friday between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. wearing your official uniform and your Ordeal sash.  Bring a water bottle, old work clothes, clothing for the weather, a sleeping bag, and your backpack.

We encourage everyone to attend the entire weekend, but if your time is very limited you may do your Brotherhood Quest on Saturday, September 20 from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Durland Scout Reservation.  Check in at the Jones Cabin on Saturday at 10:00 a.m.  Saturday-only participants should arrange in advance to be picked up Saturday at 9:00 p.m. at the Jones Cabin.  Be sure to check "Saturday only" on your registration form.  The Saturday-only fee includes lunch and supper.

Be sure to mail your registration form, medical form, and payment in advance.

Schedule for Fall Ordeal/Brotherhood and Service Weekend

Friday, September 19

7:00 p.m.

• Staff (Elangomats, Ceremony Team, Lodge Executive Committee members, and staff adults) arrive to set up.  Check in at the Campmaster Cabin, and receive additional instructions, if needed.
• Everyone should arrive wearing their official uniform and OA sash.
  

8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

• Ordeal Candidates and Brotherhood Quest candidates arrive and CHECK IN at the Campmaster Cabin.
• Park in the parking lot next to the Campmaster Cabin.
• Scouts should leave their gear in their car, and go into the Campmaster Cabin with one parent (or responsible adult) to check in.
• Everyone should arrive wearing their official uniform and OA sash (if they have one).
• The latrine is the smaller building across the parking lot from the Campmaster Cabin.
• After check in, scouts should go to Sperling Center.  Scouts say goodbye to their parents.  Parents leave.
• Scouts bring their gear to Sperling Center, and wait in Sperling Center for their Ordeal or Brotherhood Quest to begin.
  

Ordeal and Brotherhood Quest begins

• When it is time for the Ordeal or Brotherhood Quest to begin, instructions will be given at Sperling Center.

Saturday, September 20

Ordeal and Brotherhood Quest continue.

Those not participating in their Ordeal or Brotherhood Quest will do a service project.

Sunday, September 21

11:00 a.m.

• Scouts are picked up at Sperling Center. 
  

All brothers who want to help the candidates experience a quality Ordeal by assisting as an Elangomat should contact Brandon A. in advance.  Training is available.

Join the Ceremonies team and help the candidates experience an Ordeal Ceremony that they'll never forget!  Contact Brandon A., the Program Vice Chief.  Members who have completed their Ordeal and Brotherhood members are welcome to join the Ceremonies team.  Training is available.

Questions
Contact Clayton W., Lodge Chief or Mr. Rob Carlson, Lodge Adviser if you have questions about the Ordeal, Brotherhood Quest, or Fall Service Weekend.  See the Contact Us web page.

Section NE-2C Conclave

Indian(a) Jones and the Raiders of the Last Conclave
Section NE-2C Conclave
August 22-24, 2008
Camp Keowa
Ten Mile River Scout Camps
1481 Crystal Lake Road
Narrowsburg, NY

Section NE-2C invites all Ktemaque Lodge members (youths and adults) to join Indiana Jones in a search for the last conclave.  The Order of the Arrow is reorganizing its Sections and next year Ktemaque Lodge will be in Section NE-7B, so this is the last year for you to attend a Section NE-2C Conclave!  New Ordeal members and new Brotherhood members are especially encouraged to attend Section Conclaves.  Themed meals and events throughout the weekend will highlight scenes from these great movies.  There will be lots of delicious food.  Register online today and we'll see you at the temple of doom!

Registration:

• Register On-Line and pay by credit card on-line on the Section NE-2C web site at www.ne2c.org/conclave.
  

OR

• Mail your registration form and payment.  The registration form is on the Forms web page of the Ktemaque Lodge web site, is in the April - June 2008 issue of the Beaver Tracks, and is also on the Section NE-2C web site at www.ne2c.org/conclave.

Medical form

Medical form MUST be brought with you to the Section Conclave.  The medical form is on the Section NE-2C web site at www.ne2c.org/conclave/downloads, in the Beaver Tracks April - June 2008 issue, and is on the Ktemaque Lodge "Forms" web page.

Fees:

$25.00  Early Bird Registration: Payments received by June 1, 2008
$30.00  General Registration: Payments received by August 1, 2008
$35.00  Late Registration: Payments received after August 1, 2008

Activities:

Archery, Rifle & Shotgun, Water Trampoline, War Canoes, Waterskiing, Mountain Bikes, Pedal Carts, Climbing Wall, Beach Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, American Indian Activities, Tug of War, "Ironman" Triathalon, OA Jeopardy, Lodge Feud, Pie Eating, Seltzer Chugging, Website Competition, Newsletter Competition, Trade-o-Ree, Static Displays, Themed meals, etc.

Additional "spirit" activites include:

• The Founder's Cup interlodge competition
• Goodman 500 (race around camp in pedal carts)
• Iron "Arrowman" Triathalon - War Canoe race, Mountain Bike race, Running race
• Web and Newsletter competition
• Robin Hood competition - Archery, Rifle shooting and Shotgun shooting
• Diving competition (creative dives off water trampoline)
  

Map of Camp Keowa.

More information will be added here as it becomes available.

If you have questions, please contact Clayton W., Lodge Chief, or Rob C., Lodge Adviser.

ArrowCorps5

During the summer of 2008, 5,000 Arrowmen from across the nation will embark on the largest service project in the Order of the Arrow’s history — ArrowCorps⁵.  This is a once in a lifetime experience!  This project is not like any previous OA adventure.  When we work on service projects at 5 national service sites, over 5 weeks, with more than 5,000 Arrowmen, we will all participate in a higher adventure, culminating in a legacy of service at national forests across the nation.

Arrowmen will be building trails, clearing brush, and providing meaningful service at:

• Mark Twain National Forest: Missouri, June 7-14, 2008
• Manti-La Sal National Forest: Utah, June 14-21, 2008
• George Washington and Jefferson National Forests: Virginia, June 21-28, 2008
  
• Shasta-Trinity National Forest: California, July 12-19, 2008
• Bridger-Teton National Forest: Wyoming, July 26 - August 2, 2008
  

Arrowmen are not limited to participation in a nearby project.  In fact, you can attend any project across the country or several of them.  Unlike other high adventure oppportunities with the OA, ArrowCorps⁵ is unique because this will be the first large-scale OA event where adults can take an active role.  Plan now to participate and leave your mark on our national treasures for future generations to see.

Detailed information is being released on the national OA website as it becomes available.

All youth and adult Arrowmen who are registered members of the Westchester-Putnam Council and Ktemaque Lodge and have their council and Ktemaque Lodge's approval, are eligible to participate in ArrowCorps⁵.  Arrowmen over age 14 who meet Philmont Weight Limits for Backpacking and Hiking can participate.  Youth members must be at least 14 years old by June 1, 2008.  Arrowmen over age 18 who meet Philmont Weight Limits for Backpacking and Hiking can participate as staff.  Some participants over age 16 can participate as staff in a limited capacity as Assistant Squad Leaders.  Any Arrowman may sign up for as many sites as they wish, on a first-come, first-served basis.

The ArrowCorps⁵ fee is $250.00 per site for participants who pay their fee by May 1, 2008.  The fee includes eight days of program, 20 meals, safety equipment, insurance coverage, recognition items, and a full day of recreation.  The cost of travel is not included in the site fee.

ArrowCorps⁵ sites that have not reached capacity will continue to accept participants until June 1, 2008.  Following June 1 only the National Office of the Order of the Arrow will be able to grant access.

Final fees of $250 per participant per site are due May 1, 2008.  Fees paid after May 1, 2008 will be $300 per participant per site.

All Arrowmen must register for ArrowCorps⁵ through Ktemaque Lodge if they wish to participate in this once-in-a-lifetime service event.  Contact Bob F., our ArrowCorps5 Coordinator at (914) 528-3708 as soon as possible, for more information on how to register.  You must pay your $100 deposit per person, per site, before the February 1, 2008 registration deadline.  Sign up as soon as possible to get the location you want.  Online registration will accept credit cards.

OA members 21 years old and older may also attend.

ArrowCorps⁵ brochure:  http://ac5.oa-bsa.org/ArrowCorps5_Pamphlet.pdf

Contact Bob F., our ArrowCorps5 Coordinator, at (914) 528-3708 if you have questions.

Lodge Spring Service Weekend

The Ktemaque Lodge Spring Service Weekend will be May 16-18, 2008 at Curtis S. Read Scout Reservation in Brant Lake, NY.  All youth and adult members are invited.  The Ordeal and Brotherhood Quest will be offered.  The registration form and medical form are on the "Forms" web page.  These forms and your payment must be postmarked by May 9.

Round-trip transportation in the Council van from the Council Service Center in Hawthorne to Curtis S. Read Scout Reservation in Brant Lake, NY is $30, but spaces are very limited.  Send in your registration form and payment early to reserve a first-come, first-served space in the van.  Those who registered and paid in advance to travel to Camp Read in a Council van should arrive at the Westchester-Putnam Council parking lot at 5:00 p.m. on Friday.  All passengers in the Council van MUST bring a copy of their Personal Health and Medical Record Class 1 form.  Contact Rob C., Lodge Adviser, (914) 528-9331 if you have questions about the Council van transportation.

Check in Friday from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Camp Buckskin Dining Hall at Read Scout Reservation wearing your official uniform and OA sash.

Bring work clothes. work gloves, water bottle, clothes to dress for the weather (it can get cold or rain), sleeping bag, pillow (optional), and personal care items.  Adults with carpentry or electrical skills should bring their own personal tools.  This year we shall be working on many projects all around camp in preparation for its opening this summer.

Bring about $20 in small bills if you want to purchase Ktemaque Lodge and Order of the Arrow items at the Ktemaque Lodge Trading Post.

All brothers who want to help the candidates experience a quality Ordeal by assisting as an Elangomat should contact Head Elangomat David M. in advance.  Training is available.

Join the Ceremonies team and help the candidates experience an Ordeal Ceremony that they'll never forget!  Contact Brandon A., the Ceremonies Chairman.  Ordeal members and Brotherhood members are welcome to join the Ceremonies team.  Training is available.

On Saturday the lodge will hold its annual election of lodge officers.  The election will be held in the Camp Buckskin Dining Hall.  If you are interested in serving in a lodge leadership position please contact Robert C., Lodge Adviser, (914) 528-9331 by May 9 to discuss the position and its responsibilities, and get answers to your questions.  Then, please notify Robert C., Lodge Adviser by May12 to be approved if you are interested in running for a lodge leadership position.

Those members who are fairly new to the lodge may not have the faintest clue as to how someone becomes the Lodge Chief.  Some common questions he might ask could be:

What are the qualifications?
Do you have to be a certain rank?
What are the duties?
Do you have to be a certain age?
Do I need my Unit Leader's permission?

Here is a little background information that will assist in the answers to these questions.

All elected lodge officers must be under the age of 21 during their entire term in office.  It is each officer's responsibility to attend all Lodge Executive Committee Meetings (usually held on the 4th Tuesday beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the Council Service Center in Hawthorne) and lodge events.  Lodge officers plan all lodge events as well as develop an annual operating budget.  All officers must make every effort to attend all lodge meetings and functions.  Contact Robert C., Lodge Adviser (914) 528-9331 for more information.

Here is a brief list and explanations of the lodge officer positions:

LODGE CHIEF
He is responsible for the daily operations of the Lodge and coordination of all events and programs through the other youth.  He presides over all of the Lodge and the Lodge Executive Committee.  Most importantly, he must be able to delegate authority, follow up, and remain in control.

VICE CHIEF OF PROGRAM
He is responsible for all of the lodge programs and activities.  He is the head honcho over the Ceremonial Committee and will take over the Lodge Chief's responsibilities in his absence.

VICE CHIEF OF OPERATIONS
His responsibilities are the operations of the five Districts.  He is responsible for the Unit Elections and the Camp Promotions Committees in each district.  He is also responsible for the OA Troop Representative program.

VICE CHIEF OF COMMUNICATIONS
He is responsible for the Lodge records and publications.  He prepares the Beaver Tracks lodge newsletter, maintains the Ktemaque Lodge web site, and promotes participation in OA events and activities.  He also takes the Lodge Executive Committee Meeting Minutes and sends it to the Lodge Executive Committee.  He works with the Lodge Chief to prepare meeting agendas.

VICE CHIEF OF SERVICE
He is responsible for all the service projects of the Lodge.  He works with the Council Camping Committee to prepare camp maintenance projects for the lodge service weekends.

There will be a mandatory training meeting for all officers in June.  The date, time, and location are to be decided.

If you have questions about the Spring Service Weekend, please contact Kevin M., Lodge Chief, or Rob C., Lodge Adviser, (914) 528-9331.

Unit Elections

The election period is from January 1 through March 31.

Click on "Election Guide" on the left tool bar on this web page, then read the eight-page Election Guide.  The guide has information on youth and adult membership requirements, the election ceremony, ballot session, how to submit results, and the adult nomination form.

The election results should be sent to Ktemaque Lodge by April 1.  The BSA ID number of those elected MUST be included in the election results.  Results postmarked after April 1 will not allow adequate time for Ktemaque Lodge to send needed information to those elected.  Anyone not receiving their invitation in the mail by May 1 to take their Ordeal should contact the Vice Chief of Operations or the Operations Adviser.

Contact Clayton W., Vice Chief of Operations or Alex W., Operations Adviser if you have questions about elections.

AmeriCares HomeFront Service Project

AmeriCares HomeFront, our annual lodge community service project, will be on Saturday, May 3 from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. rain or shine at 14 Maurice Ave., Ossining, NY.  AmeriCares HomeFront is a community-based volunteer-driven home repair program that provides free repairs to low-income homeowners, thus enabling them to remain in their homes with an improved quality of life.  Volunteers complete necessary repairs at no cost to the homeowner.

The AmeriCares HomeFront Project is an excellent service opportunity for a troop to work together or for individual Scouts and leaders to donate their time and efforts.

Our service project is open to ALL youths 14 years and older and adults, NOT just Order of the Arrow members.  This is a GREAT way for Scouts to earn service hours for rank advancement.

We need YOUR help to make this another successful OA service event.  So please lend a hand in CHEERFUL SERVICE and sign up to work as many shifts as your schedule will allow.  We need people from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for the following shifts:

Shift #1  6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
Shift #2  9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. noon
Shift #3  12:00 p.m. noon to 3:00 p.m.
Shift #4  3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

We need EVERYONE'S help - unskilled as well as skilled people.  We will be removing wallpaper, painting bathroom and den, staining porch, installing new floors in bathroon and kitchen, caulking in kitchen, backyard cleanup, and redoing outside steps.

Leaders, we are asking you to promote this event to your troop, even if you will not be able to attend.

Brothers, we are asking you to remember the Obligation and cheerfully join in Ktemaque Lodge's service project.  It's actually fun!

Scouts, we are asking you to volunteer, have fun, and see the Order of the Arrow in action.  Who knows?  You might soon be a member!

A free AmeriCares HomeFront t-shirt, lunch, snacks, and beverages will be provided to all who attend.  Sign up in advance so enough food and supplies will be there.

Wear work clothes.  Do not wear your official uniform or OA sash.

Bring work gloves and, if you want to paint, plastic painting gloves, if desired.

To sign up or if you have questions about AmeriCares, please contact Tucker W., Vice Chief of Service or Norm H., Service Adviser.

Photos from AmeriCares HomeFront 2006.

Fellowship Weekend

All youth and adult members are invited to attend our Fellowship Weekend on April 4-6, 2008 at Durland Scout Reservation (formerly known as Clear Lake Scout Reservation) in Putnam Valley, NY.  Click here for a MapQuest map with optional driving directions from your location to Durland Scout Reservation in Putnam Valley. 

The Fellowship Weekend is a FUN weekend!  It is a chance to meet your fellow brothers from other troops in our Lodge, have a great time eating lots of delicious food cooked by adults for you, and enjoy lots of fun activities.  We shall sleep in the cabins.

Activities being planned are:

Archery
Hatchet Throwing
Ultimate Frisbee
Football
Dodgeball
ManHunt
Variety of board games
Card games
Movies

The registration form and medical form are on the Forms web page and in the Beaver Tracks January - March 2008 issue.  The deadline is March 28, 2008 to register for the Fellowship Weekend.

Members are encouraged to attend the entire weekend, but you do not have to be there the entire weekend.  If you have another commitment (sports game, party, family event, or other commitment) it is ok.  You may attend when you are available during the weekend.  There are a few members who can attend on Saturday only.  Those members may come Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and check in at the Jones Cabin.  The Saturday-only fee includes lunch and dinner.

The Brotherhood Quest will be offered.  Registration is required.  Use the Fellowship Weekend registration form and Class 1 medical form on the Forms web page.  The deadline is March 28, 2008 to register for your Brotherhood Quest.  We encourage everyone to attend the entire weekend, but if your time is very limited you may do your Brotherhood Quest on Saturday, April 5 from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Durland Scout Reservation.  Check in at the Jones Cabin Saturday at 10:00 a.m.  Arrange in advance to be picked up Saturday 9:00 p.m. at the Jones Cabin.  Be sure to check Saturday only on your registration form.

Bring a water bottle, clothing so you may dress for the weather, a sleeping bag, and a pillow (optional).  We shall sleep in the Schutt Cabin and Jones Cabin (map showing location of cabins).

Check in Friday from 9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Jones Cabin.  Arrive wearing your official uniform with your Order of the Arrow sash.

Pick up Sunday at 9:00 a.m. at Jones Cabin.
 
If you have questions about the Fellowship Weekend, please contact Brandon A., Fellowship Weekend Chairman or Fred C., Fellowship Weekend Adviser.

Lodge Leadership Development at the University of Scouting

On Saturday, March 29, the Westchester-Putnam Council's University of Scouting will be held at Concordia College located at 171 White Plains Rd. in Bronxville, NY from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

For the first time our lodge is an official College of the annual university.  We will be offering nine different courses taught by brothers in our lodge.  The courses extensively cover most aspects of the Order of the Arrow (OA) and will be informative and interesting.  All Order of the Arrow members (youth and adult) are strongly encouraged to attend this valuable event.  Whether you are a new member or not, there are courses for everyone, including adults, that will go over the organization as a whole as well as dive in to more specifics.  This is a perfect opportunity to learn more about and get involved in our great lodge.

Members (youth and adult) who want to be more active in our lodge or have a lodge leadership position are especially encouraged to attend.

Council has extended the deadline to March 22 to register online for the Order of the Arrow courses at the University of Scouting on March 29.  REGISTER ONLINE on the Westchester-Putnam Council's web site.  To register, go to the Council's University of Scouting web page at 
www.wpcbsa.org/Training/UniversityScouting.asp.
Please register early.  Late registrations will not be accepted and walk-ins will not be permitted.

A registration fee of $20.00 will cover refreshments throughout the day, lunch, materials, a certificate of participation, and a commemorative patch.

The Order of the Arrow courses are:

Elangomats:
This course is designed to explain the role of the Elangomat in the Ordeal process.  It will train members who want to become Elangomats, as well as polish the skills and remind those who have done it before what it really means and the importance of the role even after the Ordeal.

OA 101:
Ideal for new brothers or those simply curious about the Order of the Arrow.  This session will clarify the seemingly complex structure of the OA and different leadership levels and opportunities.  It will explain the induction principles and sequence to help becoming a member easier.

OA and the Troop:
If active in the OA or just the BSA, this session will explain the relationship between the OA and the troop by going into the role of the OA Troop Representative and unit elections.

OA and the Cub Scouts:
The OA does not exclusively involve the Boy Scouts.  Leaders will be familiarized with the role the OA plays in Cub Scouts, specifically camping and advancement.  OA involvement will also be discussed in Arrow of Light ceremonies and other leadership skills to implement these things.

Ceremonies:
The Order of the Arrow is an organization filled with tradition and ceremonies.  This course will look into why there are ceremonies, important factors and the role of the ceremonies team.  This course is designed for those interested in becoming a member of the ceremony team and will provide techniques and opportunities to become active in the lodge and brothers curious about the ceremonies they were exposed to.

Communications:
Beaver Tracks, Ktemaque Lodge's newsletter and the lodge web site will be explored as well as the communication infrastructure of our lodge.  Those with questions, ideas/suggestions, and who would like to help with the lodge's communciation system are encouraged to attend.

Role of the Adult:
This will teach the role of the Adviser in the Order of the Arrow and go over the interactions and expectations of the youth and adult in the OA.

Event Planning:
Designed for all Arrowmen, the different events and their purposes will be covered, what goes into planning them, as well as steps and skills to planning a successful event in any level of the Order of the Arrow.

Trail to Brotherhood:
This course will create a better understanding of the Journey to Brotherhood, through examination of the views of both the individual Ordeal members and the lodge leadership.

Click here to see a map and get optional driving directions from your location to Concordia College.  Click here to see a campus map.

Please contact Brandon A. or Mr. Fred C. if you have questions about Lodge Leadership Development or the University of Scouting.

Banquet

Ktemaque Lodge Banquet
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Cortlandt Colonial Restaurant
4 Old Albany Post Road
Cortlandt Manor, NY
$25 per person

Our Program Committee is preparing an interesting and fun evening.  Awards and recognitions will be presented, there will be an OA high adventures presentation and information about ArrowCorps5, our Lodge leaders will be there and look forward to talking with you, and the food will be delicious!

All lodge members and their family members are invited.  This is a family event, so parents, siblings, and other family members are welcome to attend.

Everyone who completed their Ordeal, Brotherhood Quest, or received the Vigil Honor in 2007 should attend.

Pre-registration and pre-payment are required.  NO WALK INS!  Registration form and payment MUST BE POSTMARKED NO LATER THAN DECEMBER 18!  The banquet registration form is in the Beaver Tracks October - December 2007 newsletter and is on the "Forms" web page of this web site.

Dinner (buffet)
    Assorted cold salads and dressings
    Cheese tray
    Vegetables and dip
    Bread and butter
    Chicken marsala
    Eggplant parmesan
    Baked ziti
    Meatballs
    Chicken fingers
    French fries
    Rice
    Steamed vegetables
    Ice cream sundaes
    Cake
    Pitchers of soda on all tables
    Coffee/tea/decaf

Program
    6:30 p.m.    Check-in
                     Pre-gathering
    7:00 p.m.    Opening Ceremony and Introductions
                     Invocation/Philmont Grace
                     Dinner (buffet)
                     State of the Lodge address
                     Awards and Recognitions
                                New Ordeal Members
                                New Brotherhood Members
                                New Vigil Honor Members
                                Leadership in Service Award
                                Lodge Chief's Special Award
                                Founder's Award
                     National OA Events/Awards/Activities
                     Chief's/Adviser's Minute
                     Closing Ceremony

Wear your official uniform and your Order of the Arrow sash.

Order of the Arrow and Ktemaque Lodge items will be for sale.  Bring cash or a check to make purchases.

Directions to Cortlandt Colonial Restaurant at 4 Old Albany Post Road in Cortlandt Manor, NY:

From the Taconic State Parkway go west on Route 202/Route 35.  In almost 3 miles turn right onto the Bear Mountain State Parkway.  In 3 miles turn right onto Highland Avenue.  In 0.4 miles the Cortlandt Colonial Restaurant will be on your left at the intersection of Highland Avenue and Dogwood Road.  For your convenience, click this map link to get a map of the restaurant's location and optional driving directions from your location to the restaurant.

Information about the Banquet is in the Beaver Tracks October - December 2007 issue and on the second page of the Banquet Registration Form on the "Forms" web page.

Updates (if needed due to inclement weather, hazardous road conditions, etc.) will be added to this Ktemaque Lodge web site.

If you have questions about the Banquet program, please contact Brian C., Vice Chief of Program or Matthew M., Program Adviser.

If you have questions about Banquet registration, please contact Bob F., Membership Adviser.



"Leadership in Service Award"

Information about the Leadership in Service Award.

Dues

The deadline to pay your Ktemaque Lodge dues is December 31.  The dues are $10 for one year or $27 for three years.

Look in the upper left corner of the address label on your Beaver Tracks newsletter to find the year that your Ktemaque Lodge membership expires.  If the printed year is 2007, then your Ktemaque Lodge membership expires on December 31, 2007.  Mail the dues form with your payment to the Westchester-Putnam Council by December 31, 2007.

The dues payment form is in the Beaver Tracks October - December 2007 issue, in the Westchester-Putnam Council office, and it is also on the Ktemaque Lodge "Forms" web page.  Click on "Forms" on the left side of this Ktemaque web page.

Questions about your Ktemaque Lodge membership should be submitted in writing to Bob F., Membership Adviser.

Bob F., Membership Adviser
Ktemaque Lodge, WWW
Order of the Arrow
Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA
41 Saw Mill River Road
Hawthorne, NY   10532-1519

Popcorn Distribution

Ktemaque Lodge needs volunteers, both adult and youth, to assist with Council's popcorn distribution on Saturday, December 1, 2007.  The popcorn sale is a major fundraiser for both our units and our council.  Youth and adult volunteers are needed to assist with loading the popcorn boxes into unit leaders cars at each of the four pick-up sites.  Scouts may earn service hours.

The distribution begins at 8:00 AM and will end by 1:00 PM.  Come help for any time between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.  The four sites are:

Best Plumbing (loading dock at rear of building), 3333 Crompond Rd., Yorktown Heights, NY

Whalen's Moving & Storage, 39 Kiscona Road, Mount Kisco, NY

RCI, 179 Saw Mill River Rd., Yonkers, NY

Food PATCH, 358 Saw Mill River Rd., Millwood, NY

Click on an address above to get driving directions from your location.

If you can assist the Council and provide cheerful service, please contact Tucker W., Vice Chief of Service or Dr. Norman Herman, Service Adviser at nlherman@med.cornell.edu.

Please wear your official uniform and Order of the Arrow sash.  Dress warmly for working outdoors.

Fall Ordeal/Brotherhood and Service Weekend

The Ordeal/Brotherhood and Service Weekend will be September 14-16, 2007 at the Clear Lake Scout Reservation in Putnam Valley, NY.

Register in advance (no walk-ins) using the 2007 Fall Service Weekend Registration Form and mail it with the appropriate fee to the Council Service Center postmarked by September 7th.  Your check should be made payable to "Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA".  Write "OA Fall Weekend Account #1-2371-000-00" in the memo section of your check.  Make sure your Personal Health & Medical Record Permission Slip form is submitted with your registration form.  No one will be allowed in camp without one.  These forms are on the Ktemaque Lodge web site's "Forms" web page and also in the Beaver Tracks July - September 2007 newsletter.

This weekend event is held rain or shine.

This map has optional driving directions to Clear Lake Scout Reservation from your location.

Eat supper before you arrive.

Bring about $20 cash in small bills to purchase Order of the Arrow items at the OA Trading Post on Saturday evening, if desired.

Ordeal for Scouts
Scouts who were elected to the OA in 2007 and did not do their Ordeal in the spring need to register in advance (no walk-ins) for their Ordeal during the Fall Service Weekend.  This is the last opportunity this year to do an Ordeal.  Register in advance using the "2007 Candidate Information and Registration Form" that was mailed after April 1, and note especially the list of things to bring.  Mail the registration form, Personal Health & Medical Record Permission Slip, and your check made payable to the "Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA" to the Council Service Center postmarked by September 7th.  Write "OA Fall Ordeal Account #1-2371-000-00" in the memo section of the check.  Eat supper BEFORE you arrive.  The Ordeal will end approximately 11:00 a.m. Sunday.

Everyone should arrive wearing their official uniform on Friday.

Any Scout who was elected in 2007 and did not attend the spring or fall Ordeal needs to be re-elected in 2008 unless he requests, in writing, a waiver due to a medical/family emergency.  Please email the Vice Chief of Operations, Clayton W.  See the Contact Us webpage.

Ordeal for Scouters
Candidates approved in 2007 for participation in the induction process were notified by mail of their selection.  Any of those Scouters who did not attend the 2007 spring Ordeal need to register in advance for his/her Ordeal during the Fall Service Weekend.  This is the last opportunity this year to do an Ordeal.  Register in advance (no walk-ins) using the "2007 Candidate Information and Registration Form" that was mailed to the approved Candidates.  Mail the registration form, “Personal Health & Medical Record Permission Slip”, and check made payable to the "Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA" with the appropriate fee to the Council Service Center postmarked by September 7th.  Scouters are encouraged to bring tools of their trade that would be helpful in camp maintenance.

What to wear
Everyone should arrive wearing their official uniform on Friday.  Bring work clothes and work gloves.

Any Scouter who was approved for participation in the induction process in 2007 and did not attend the spring or fall Ordeal needs to be re-nominated in 2008 unless he requests, in writing, a waiver due to a medical/family emergency.  Please email the Vice Chief of Operations, Clayton W.  See the Contact Us webpage.

Questions
Contact Kevin M., Lodge Chief or Mr. Rob Carlson, Lodge Adviser if you have questions about the Ordeal, Brotherhood Quest, or Fall Service Weekend.  See the Contact Us web page.

Brotherhood Quest

Click here to watch a Brotherhood video ad.  It lasts less than one minute.

If you have been active in the lodge for ten months or more since completing your Ordeal, now is your chance to become a Brotherhood member of our Lodge!  All Ordeal members should complete their Brotherhood Quest.  Completion of the Brotherhood Quest signifies full membership in the Order of the Arrow.

Brotherhood requirements are:

• completed 10 months of unit service as an Ordeal member.

• maintained your registered membership in Scouting

• maintained your registered membership in the Order of the Arrow

• memorized the Obligation, the Order of the Arrow Official Song, the Admonition, the sign of Ordeal membership, and the Arrow handclasp

• gained a thorough understanding of the Ordeal through which you have passed (See "The Customs and Traditions of the Ordeal" in the Order of the Arrow Handbook.)

The Brotherhood Quest is a way to reaffirm your dedication to the Order and its ideals.  It is also an invitation to get more involved in the Lodge.

Register in advance (no walk-ins) for your Brotherhood Quest using the "2007 Fall Service Weekend Registration Form" and "Personal Health and Medical Record Form" that are on the "Forms" webpage, and mail with the appropriate fee to the Council Service Center postmarked by September 7th.

For the September 14-16 Brotherhood Quest arrive Friday between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. wearing your official uniform and your Ordeal sash.  Bring a water bottle, old work clothes, clothing for the weather, a sleeping bag, and your backpack.

We encourage everyone to attend the entire weekend, but if your time is very limited you may do your Brotherhood Quest on Saturday, September 15 from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Clear Lake Scout Reservation.  Check in at the Jones Cabin on Saturday at 10:00 a.m.  Saturday-only participants should arrange in advance to be picked up Saturday at 9:00 p.m. at the Jones Cabin.  Be sure to check "Saturday only" on your registration form.  The Saturday-only fee includes lunch and supper.

Be sure to mail your registration form, medical form, and payment in advance.

If you have questions, contact Kevin M., Lodge Chief, or Rob C., Lodge Adviser (914) 528-9331.


Schedule for Fall Ordeal/Brotherhood and Service Weekend

Friday, September 14

7:00 p.m.

• Staff (Elangomats, Ceremony Team, Lodge Executive Committee members, and staff adults) arrive to set up.  Check in at the Campmaster Cabin, and receive additional instructions, if needed.
• Everyone should arrive wearing their official uniform and OA sash.
  

8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

• Ordeal Candidates and Brotherhood Quest candidates arrive and CHECK IN at the Campmaster Cabin.
• Park in the parking lot next to the Campmaster Cabin.
• Scouts should leave their gear in their car, and go into the Campmaster Cabin with one parent (or responsible adult) to check in.
• Everyone should arrive wearing their official uniform and OA sash (if they have one).
• The latrine is the smaller building across the parking lot from the Campmaster Cabin.
• After check in, scouts should go to Sperling Center.  Scouts say goodbye to their parents.  Parents leave.
• Scouts bring their gear to Sperling Center, and wait in Sperling Center for their Ordeal or Brotherhood Quest to begin.
  

Ordeal and Brotherhood Quest begins

• When it is time for the Ordeal or Brotherhood Quest to begin, instructions will be given at Sperling Center.

Saturday, September 15

Ordeal and Brotherhood Quest continue.

Those not participating in the Ordeal or Brotherhood Quest will do a service project.

Sunday, September 16

11:00 a.m.

• Scouts are picked up at Sperling Center.

Section NE-2C Conclave    "Conclave Royale"

A Section Conclave is an annual weekend event where the ten lodges in our section get together for a fun-filled weekend full of delicious food, fellowship, training, games, competitions, entertainment, and Native American events with the ten Order of the Arrow lodges in our section.  It's fun!  Some members' greatest Order of the Arrow memories are from Section Conclaves.

Section NE-2C and Ktemaque Lodge invite you to join us on the mission of a lifetime with James Bond at the "Conclave Royale".  Themed meals and events throughout the weekend will highlight one of the greatest movie series of all time.  It will be lots of fun and there will be plenty of delicious food cooked by adults for you!

Click here to watch a Section Conclave video ad.  It lasts less than one minute.

"Conclave Royale" will be held on August 24-26, 2007 at the Clear Lake Scout Reservation at 1 Clear Lake Road in Putnam Valley, NY.  Register in advance.

Check in Friday at 8:00 p.m. or earlier as your duties require.  Leave Sunday at 2:00 p.m.

All members (Ordeal members, Brotherhood members, and Vigil Honor members) are invited to attend.  New Ordeal members and new Brotherhood members are especially encouraged to attend.

Our Ktemaque Lodge #15 is in Section NE-2C, which is comprised of ten lodges in the New York metropolitan area.  Three lodges are in Connecticut, two are in New York state, and five are in New York City.

For the first time in nearly a decade our lodge has the privilege of being the "Service Lodge".  Hosting a conclave is a tremendous undertaking and your help is needed!  Contact Norm H., Conclave Adviser (914) 850-4391 to get in on the action and lend a hand in cheerful service!

Planning is going along smoothly and a lot is being planned for you during this weekend.

Friday night there will be Casino Royale with cards and games, and a cracker barrel.

Training will be held on Saturday morning from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon.  There are eighteen topics divided into three time periods.  You may choose the three topics that you want to attend.  The training topics are about leadership, new Arrowmen, ceremonies, Ordeal, Elangomat, OA Troop Representative, Unit Elections, communication, etc.  The complete list of training topics is on the Section NE-2C web site.  Click here for training cells information on the Section NE-2C web site.

Saturday afternoon will be filled with activities, such as marshmallow blow guns, rock climbing, rappelling, prusiking, archery (free shoot), fishing contest, scavenger hunt, pie eating  or hot dog eating contest, a triathlon for individuals or teams with running, boating, swimming, Native American Pow Wow, and Native American ceremonial teams will have individual coach and team evaluations.

Saturday night entertainment shows will include a Weekend Recap, DJ, slide show, and an idea game show, such as "Are You Smarter Than a Lodge Chief?"  There will also be a Patch Auction and a cracker barrel.

Sunday morning will be the Section meeting and elections.  Ktemaque Lodge's Alex L. is running for Section Chief!  Come support him!

There will also be Catholic and Jewish services and a Scout's Own Service.

We shall be sleeping in cabins.

Participants will get a patch.

Online registration is available on the Section NE-2C website at www.ne2c.org/conclave/.  After submitting the online registration information, mail your payment and your Section Conclave Class 1 Health & Medical Record form to the Westchester-Putnam Council.  Your online registration is not complete until your payment and Section Conclave Class 1 Health & Medical Record form are received at the Westchester-Putnam Council.

The registration form and the Section Conclave Class 1 Health & Medical Record form are on the Ktemaque Lodge's "Forms" webpage, on the Section NE-2C website at www.ne2c.org, and in the April - June 2007 issue and July - September 2007 issue of the Beaver Tracks newsletter.  Ktemaque Lodge is OA Lodge #15.

The registration fee is $25 if postmarked by July 1, $30 if postmarked from July 2 - August 15, and $35 if postmarked August 16 or later.

More information as it becomes available will be posted here and on the Section NE-2C web site.

See you there!

Contact Clayton W. Conclave Coordinator, or Norm H. Conclave Adviser, at (914) 850-4391 if you have questions.



Section NE-2C Conclave - Planning Meetings

Section NE-2C Conclave Planning Meetings are held monthly on the first Thursday beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the Council Service Center in Hawthorne.  All are welcome to attend!  Please contact Conclave Adviser Norm H. (914) 850-4391 if you have questions.

Lodge Spring Service Weekend

The Lodge Service Weekend will be May 18-20, 2007 at Curtis S. Read Scout Reservation in Brant Lake, NY.  All youth and adult members are welcome.  The Ordeal and Brotherhood Quest will be offered.  The registration form and medical form are on the "Forms" webpage.

Those who signed up and paid to travel to Camp Read in a Council van should arrive at the Westchester-Putnam Council parking lot at 5:00 p.m. on Friday.  Contact Rob C., Lodge Adviser, (914) 528-9331 if you have questions about the Council van transportation.

Check in Friday from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Camp Buckskin Dining Hall at Camp Read wearing your official uniform and OA sash.

All brothers should bring work clothes and work gloves.  Brothers with carpentry or electrical skills should bring their own personal tools.  This year we shall be working on many projects all around camp in preparation for its opening this summer.

All brothers who want to help the candidates experience a quality Ordeal by assisting as an Elangomat should contact Head Elangomat David M. in advance.

If you have questions about the Spring Service Weekend, please contact Clayton W., Lodge Chief, or Rob C., Lodge Adviser, (914) 528-9331.

Brotherhood Quest

The Brotherhood Quest will be offered during the:

• Lodge Fellowship Weekend on April 13 - 15, 2007 at Clear Lake Scout Reservation in Putnam Valley, NY.
  
• Lodge Spring Service Weekend on May 18 - 20, 2007 at Read Scout Reservation in Brant Lake, NY.
  
• Lodge Fall Service Weekend on September 14 - 16, 2007 at Clear Lake Scout Reservation in Putnam Valley, NY.

Lodge Community Service Project

AmeriCares HomeFront, our Lodge's community service project, will be on Saturday, May 5, 2007 from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. rain or shine at 240 Red Mill Road in Cortlandt Manor, NY.  It is located near the intersection of Lexington Avenue and Strawberry Road in Cortlandt Manor.  AmeriCares HomeFront is a community-based volunteer home repair program that helps homeowners who are physically or financially unable to maintain their properties.  Volunteers complete necessary repairs at no cost to the homeowner.

Come for as many hours as you can.  Scouts may earn service hours for rank advancement.

Open to all youths 14 years old and older and adults, not just Order of the Arrow members.  Carpenters, plumbers, and electricians are needed.  Unskilled people are also needed.

Lunch, snacks, beverages, and a free HomeFront t-shirt will be provided to all who attend.

We shall be painting inside and outside the house, replacing windows, fixing up the bathroom plumbing, renovating the deck and stairs, replacing the front doors, replacing screen doors, installing exterior lights, installing a ceramic tile kitchen floor, and digging the flower beds.

Wear work clothes.  Do not wear your official uniform or OA sash. 

Bring work gloves and, if you want to paint, plastic painting gloves, if desired.

Park on MacArthur Boulevard.

This is the only community service project authorized by the Lodge Executive Committee to fulfill one of the requirements for the "Leadership in Service Award".  You must work a minimum of 6 hours on this project.  The Leadership in Service Award may be earned by OA youth and adult members only.

Sign up in advance so enough food and supplies will be there.

To sign up or ask a question, please contact Tucker W., AmeriCares Chairman, Zach G., Vice Chief of Service, or Norm H., AmeriCares Adviser at (914) 850-4391.

Photos from AmeriCares 2006.

Fellowship Weekend

Our Fellowship Weekend will be April 13-15, 2007 at Clear Lake Scout Reservation in Putnam Valley, NY.  Click here for a MapQuest map with optional directions from your location to Clear Lake Scout Reservation.  The Fellowship Weekend is a fun weekend!  It is a chance to meet your fellow brothers in our Lodge, have a great time eating delicious food, a movie is planned for Saturday night.  All youth and adult members are welcome.  The registration form is on the "Forms" webpage.

The Brotherhood Quest will be offered.  Registration is required.  Use the Fellowship Weekend registration form.

Check in Friday from 9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Jones Cabin.  Arrive wearing your official uniform with your Order of the Arrow sash.

Bring old work clothes, a water bottle, clothing so you may dress for the weather, and a sleeping bag.  We shall sleep in the Schutt Cabin and Jones Cabin (cabin location map).

Members are encouraged to attend the entire weekend.  There are a few members who can attend on Saturday only.  Those members may come Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and check in at the Jones Cabin.  The Saturday-only fee includes lunch and dinner. 

We encourage everyone to attend the entire weekend, but if your time is very limited you may do your Brotherhood Quest on Saturday, April 14 from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Clear Lake Scout Reservation.  Check in at the Jones Cabin Saturday at 10:00 a.m.  Arrange in advance to be picked up Saturday 9:00 p.m. at the Jones Cabin.  Be sure to check Saturday only on your registration form.

Pick up Sunday, April 15 at 9:00 a.m. at Jones Cabin.

If you have questions about the Fellowship Weekend, please contact Rob C., Lodge Adviser, (914) 528-9331.

Unit Elections

The election period is from January 1 through March 31.  Click on "Election Guide on the left tool bar on this webpage, then read the eight-page Election Guide.  The guide has information on youth and adult membership requirements, the election ceremony, ballot session, how to submit results, and the adult nomination form.

The election results should be sent to Ktemaque Lodge by April 1.  Results postmarked after April 1 will not allow adequate time for Ktemaque Lodge to send needed information to those elected.  Anyone not receiving their invitation in the mail by May 1 to take their Ordeal should contact the Vice Chief of Operations or the Operations Adviser.

Contact Nick F., Vice Chief of Operations or Alex W., Operations Adviser if you have questions about elections.

Lodge Leadership Development Conference

The Lodge Leadership Development (LLD) Conference will be held on Saturday, March 31, 2007 at Concordia College, 171 White Plains Road (Route 22), Bronxville, NY in conjunction with the University of Scouting.  The LLD registration form is on the "Forms" webpage.

All Ktemaque Lodge members are invited to attend.  Everyone currently serving in a lodge leadership position and those who are thinking about serving in the future should attend.

Fee is $10 if postmarked before March 20, $12 if paid after March 20.  Fee includes lunch, refreshments, materials, and a patch.

Arrive at 8:00 a.m. and check in at the Order of the Arrow table.  Training sessions include AmeriCares, Ceremonies, Communications, Elangomats, How to get involved, OA Troop Representative, and Unit Elections.

If you have questions, contact Clayton W., Lodge Chief or Rob C., Lodge Adviser, (914) 528-9331.

Council Klondike

Volunteers are needed at the Council Klondike on January 26-28, 2007 at Camp Smith in Cortlandt Manor.  Contact Nroman H. (914) 850-4391 to volunteer.

To: all OA members in the Manitoga District
Re: Council Klondike on January 26-28, 2007

    The Manitoga District is organizing the First Aid station at the Council Klondike.  Dr. Norm H. has suggested that we outfit OA volunteers to represent actual accident victims from a mock helicopter crash.  We need volunteers from the OA to sign up ASP prior to December 31, 2006.
    Please contact Dr. Norm H. at nlherman@med.cornell.edu or myself at rlkast@yahoo.com.  WE NEED TO COMPILE A LIST OF VOLUNTEERS!  If you are interested you need to contact us so that your name goes on the list.  If you want to come for the day there is a small fee of $10.00 to pay for food.  If you want to come for the entire event you will need to sign up with your troop to reserve a bunk spot.
    This is a catered event so all the meals are taken care of.  This Klondike is going to be an event not to be missed, the planning has been ongoing for a year.
    After the outdoor activities there will be entertainment with a DJ and movies in two separate halls for entertainment.
    Thank you.
    Yours in Scouting,
    Rick K.

Banquet

Ktemaque Lodge Banquet
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Seven Stars Restaurant
945 East Main Street
Shrub Oak, NY

Registration and pre-payment postmarked no later than December 18 were required!  NO WALK-INs!  Use the banquet registration form on this Ktemaque website on the Forms webpage, in the Beaver Tracks newsletter, or on the Council website.  The Council office has some copies of the registration form, also.

All Order of the Arrow members and their family members are invited to our annual Lodge Banquet.  Everyone who completed their Ordeal or Brotherhood Quest in 2006 should attend.

The Program Committee is preparing an interesting and fun evening.  Awards and recognitions will be presented, there will be an OA high adventures presentation, the Lodge leaders will be there and look forward to talking with you, and the food will be delicious!  Everyone who wants to become more active in the Lodge should talk with Clayton W., Lodge Chief or any of the Vice Chiefs or Advisers.

Program:

Check-in
 
Pre-Gathering
Opening Ceremony / Introductions

Invocation / Philmont Grace

Dinner

State of the Lodge Address
Awards & Recognitions

New Ordeal Members
New Brotherhood Members
New Vigil Honor Member
Leadership in Service Award
Lodge Chief's Special Award
Founders Award

National OA Events / Awards / Activities Update

Chief’s / Adviser’s / Scout Executive’s Minute

Closing Ceremony

Order of the Arrow and Ktemaque Lodge items will be for sale.  See Mr. Jess H. during the banquet.  Bring cash or a check to make purchases.

Wear your official uniform with your Order of the Arrow sash.

Directions to Seven Stars Restaurant, 945 East Main Street, Shrub Oak, NY:
From the Taconic State Parkway go west on Route 6.Turn left (south) onto Route 132 (Barger Street).  Turn right in about 200 feet onto East Main Street.Seven Stars Restaurant will be on your left at the intersection of Route 132 (Barger Street) and East Main Street in Shrub Oak.  There is a Shell gas station and a Getty gas station across the street from the restaurant.  This Google map has optional driving directions from your location to the Seven Stars Restaurant.

If you have questions, please contact Brian C., Lodge Vice Chief of Program at (914) 528-9331 or Matthew M., Lodge Adviser of Program at mjem25@msn.com.

Dues

The deadline to pay your Ktemaque Lodge dues is December 31.  The dues are $10 for one year or $27 for three years.

Look in the upper left corner of the address label on your Beaver Tracks newsletter to find the year that your Ktemaque Lodge membership expires.  If the printed year is 2006, then your Ktemaque Lodge membership expires on December 31, 2006.  Mail the dues form with your payment to the Westchester-Putnam Council by December 31, 2006.

The dues payment form is in the Beaver Tracks October - December 2006 issue, in the Westchester-Putnam Council office, a link to the form is on the Westchester-Putnam Council's website, and it is also on the Ktemaque Lodge "Forms" webpage.  Click on "Forms" on the left side of this Ktemaque webpage.

Questions about your Ktemaque Lodge membership should be submitted in writing to Bob F., Membership Adviser.
Bob F., Membership Adviser
Ktemaque Lodge, WWW
Order of the Arrow
Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA
41 Saw Mill River Road
Hawthorne, NY   10532-1519

Fall Ordeal/Brotherhood and Service Weekend
September 15-17, 2006
Clear Lake Scout Reservation
Putnam Valley, NY

Get your work clothes together and get ready for a fun filled Ktemaque Lodge Service weekend.  On September 15-17, 2006 the Ktemaque Lodge will hold its annual Fall Service Weekend at the Clear Lake Scout Reservation in Putnam Valley, NY.  An exciting weekend has been planned for your enjoyment.  All Order of the Arrow members are cordially invited.

General information

Register in advance (no walk-ins) using the 2006 Fall Service Weekend Registration Form and mail with the appropriate fee to the Council Service Center postmarked by September 8th.  Check should be made payable to the "Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA".  Write "OA Fall weekend Account # ????-??? " in the memo section of the check.  Make sure your Personal Health & Medical Record Permission Slip form is submitted with your registration form.  No one will be allowed in camp without one.  These forms are on the Ktemaque's website's "Forms" webpage.  Click on "Forms" on the left menu.

This weekend event is held rain or shine.  Parents are assured that the health and safety of the participants is the number one priority.

Map with optional driving directions to Clear Lake Scout Reservation from your location.

Eat supper before you arrive.

Bring about $20 cash in small bills to purchase Order of the Arrow items on Saturday evening, if desired.

Ordeal for Scouts
Scouts who were elected to the OA in 2006 and did not do their Ordeal in the spring need to register in advance (no walk-ins) for their Ordeal on the Fall Service Weekend.  This is the last opportunity this year to do an Ordeal.  Register in advance using the 2006 Candidate Information and Registration Form on the "Forms" webpage, and note especially the list of things to bring.  Mail the registration form, Personal Health & Medical Record Permission Slip, and check made payable to the "Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA" to the Council Service Center postmarked by September 8th.  Write "OA Fall Ordeal Account# ????-??? " in the memo section of the check.   Eat supper BEFORE you arrive.  The Ordeal will end approximately 11:00 a.m. Sunday.

Brotherhood Quest
If you have been active in the lodge for 10 months or more, the Fall Service Weekend is your chance to become a Brotherhood member of our Lodge!  If you have continued to faithfully serve your fellow Scouts, it is now time to seal your membership in the Order by becoming a Brotherhood candidate.  If you are committed to cheerful service to others, this is the next step towards that goal.

The next Brotherhood Quest is at the Fall Service Weekend on Sept. 15-17.  The requirements are simple:

• Ten months' service as an Ordeal Member.
• Registered active membership in Scouting.
• Registered active membership in the OA.
• Memorization of the Obligation, the OA Song, and the Admonition.

The Brotherhood Quest is a way to reaffirm your dedication to the Order and its ideals.  It is also an invitation to get more involved in the Lodge.

Register in advance (no walk-ins) for your Brotherhood Quest using the "2006 Fall Service Weekend Registration Form" and "Personal Health and Medical Record Form" that are on the "Forms" webpage, and mail with the appropriate fee to the Council Service Center postmarked by September 8th.

Ordeal for Scouters 
Candidates approved in 2006 for participation in the induction process were notified by mail of their selection.  Any of those Scouters who did not attend the 2006 spring Ordeal needs to register in advance for his/her Ordeal on the Fall Service Weekend.  This is the last opportunity this year to do an Ordeal.  Register in advance (no walk-ins) using the "2006 Candidate Information and Registration Form" on the "Forms" webpage.  Mail the registration form, “Personal Health & Medical Record Permission Slip”, and check made payable to the "Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA" with the appropriate fee to the Council Service Center postmarked by September 8th.  Scouters are encouraged to bring tools of their trade that would be helpful in camp maintenance.

What to wear
Everyone should arrive wearing their official uniform and OA sash (if they have one) on Friday.  All Brothers should bring work clothes and work gloves.

Any Scout who was elected or Scouter who was approved for participation in the induction process in 2006 and did not attend the spring or fall Ordeal needs to be re-elected or re-nominated in 2007 unless he requests, in writing, a waiver due to a medical/family emergency.  Please email the Vice Chief of Operations, Nick F.  See the Contact Us page.

Questions
Contact Mr. Carlson or Mr. Fenty if you have questions about the Ordeal or Brotherhood Quest.  See the Contact Us page.

Friday, September 15

7:00 p.m.

• Staff (Elangomats, Ceremony Team, Lodge Executive Committee members, and staff adults) arrive to set up.  Check in at the Campmaster Cabin, and receive additional instructions, if needed.
  
• Everyone should arrive wearing their official uniform and OA sash (if they have one).

9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

• Ordeal Candidates and Brotherhood Quest candidates arrive and CHECK IN at the Campmaster Cabin.
• Park in the parking lot next to the Campmaster Cabin.
• Scouts should leave their gear in their car, and go into the Campmaster Cabin with one parent (or responsible adult) to check in.
• Everyone should arrive wearing their official uniform and OA sash (if they have one).
• The latrine is the smaller building across the parking lot from the Campmaster Cabin.
  
• After check in, scouts should be driven to Sperling Center.  Scouts say goodbye to their parents.  Parents leave.
  
• Scouts bring their gear to Sperling Center, and wait for awhile in Sperling Center for their Ordeal to begin.

Ordeal begins

• When it is time for their Ordeal to begin, scouts will be given instructions at Sperling Center.

Saturday, September 16

Ordeal continues

Sunday, September 17

11:00 a.m.

• Scouts are picked up at Sperling Center.