Talidandaganu' brings South Korean to Skymont

Skymont has been host to Scouts from Europe, Africa and South America.  This year, for the first time, we hosted a Scout from Asia.  정예경 or Ye Kyung Jung (Rita for those linguistically challenged among us) came over 7,000 miles from South Korea to be with us for the summer.  She spent her days perched a top the tower talking nervous first-timers into taking that first step over the edge and making sure more experienced Scouts stayed safe.  In addition to visiting campsites to spend one-on-one time with units, she attended the weekly Order of the Arrow fellowship, getting to know Arrowmen from around the region.  She spent her time sharing her culture by sharing her friendship with as many Scouts as possible.  Rita’s time at Skymont was made possible by the support of Talidandaganu’ Lodge which resumed a tradition of sponsoring Skymont’s International Scout.  Promoting long term camp is a major priority for the Order of Arrow and what better way to do that then to make it a unique experience?

A Personal Talidandaganu' Account from OA Wilderness Voyage:   Canadian Odyssey

"[O]ne of the most memorable trips of my life . . . ."

"[T]he most fun."

"[T]ruly exemplifies the attitude we are supposed to have as Arrowmen . . . ."

In July 2010, Lodge Secretary Tyler Morris embarked on a journey of a lifetime.  He seized the opportunity to participate in the OA High Adventure program known as Wilderness Voyage:  Canadian Odyssey.  During this adventure, Tyler canoed from Canada to the United States, all while providing critical service and having the time of his life.  To read his gripping account and see pictures, click here.

Universal Registration Form

Have you ever lamented sending in another event registration form for an OA event?  The LEC has listened to you and has developed a one-stop shop for registering for the next five events:  Fall Ordeal, Fall Fellowship, Winter Banquet, Spring Fellowship, and Spring Ordeal.  Fill out this Universal Registration Form, send it in, and rest easy knowing that you're registered in advance.

Information about Next Summer

Usually, there is one major national program of emphasis each summer, like a NOAC, Jamboree, ArrowCorps5, NCLS, etc.  Next summer, there are TWO opportunities.  Both are close to home.  Both are incredible events.  And everyone should attend at least one.  Take a look at Indian Summer 2011 or SummitCorps:  The New River Experience.  See you there!

2011 OA High Adventure Applications

The Order of the Arrow runs four incredible high adventure programs:  OA Trail Crew, OA Wilderness Voyage, OA Canadian Odyssey, and OA Ocean Adventure.  Participants consistently report these experiences are the most rewarding experiences in Scouting--and in life.  Applications for the 2011 season are now available.  Click here!

Updated National Publications

If you're using an old version of the Guide for Officers and Advisors (GOA) or the Field Operations Guide (FOG), download a new, recently updated one!  The Guide for Officers and Advisors is the most important publication for any lodge officer or advisor.  It outlines the role that each person plays and also explains all of the rules the lodge must follow.  The Field Operations Guide is the authoritative guide about the section and national levels.

These publications have changed to reflect recent BSA organizational and title changes, as well as the closure of the region service centers.  The GOA added an inductions committee to the list of basic lodge operating committees.  The mission statement has been updated in the standard lodge rules.  A number of updates have been made to the paragraphs on ceremony teams, approved ceremonies, and call-outs.  The FOG has a new Appendix 3--Ceremony Team Evaluation and Competition and includes a new score sheet.

Grab the documents here!

Welcome New Members!

Welcome to Talidandaganu'! Your unit selected you for the values you embody and we're glad you've joined us. Now's the time to "jump start" your membership - visit OA JumpStart!

Chattanooga Scouting History

The Cherokee Area Council is proud to announce the authoritative guide to Scouting's history in Chattanooga.  For information, click here.