2004 Northeast Region Chief Interview
 Soon
after Ed Lynes, the 2004 Northeast Region Chief, was elected, the National OA Web Site
Staff asked him to answer some questions about the OA and his experiences. Let's take
a look at what he had to say.
How do you feel to be a national officer? What do you find most exciting about
the role?
The chance to become a national officer with in the Order of the Arrow is absolutely
incredible; I feel deeply honored that my fellow Arrowmen of the Northeast Region
would extend me this opportunity. The most exciting part of being a Region Chief
is the chance to deliver the National Leadership Seminar program within the great
Northeast Region.
What are you most looking forward to?
In the coming year, I am eagerly anticipating the chance to meet Arrowmen from
across the country. As I participate in the Order's hallmark programs - OA Trail
Crew and Voyage, the NLS and National Order of the Arrow Conference - I hope to make friends that last
a lifetime.
What are your earliest memories of the OA?
I fondly remember the 1998 National Conference. The chance to attend a NOAC only
two months after induction inspired me and caused me to realize the incredible effect
our Order has on the lives of thousands.
What makes you proudest to be an Arrowman?
The pride I get from being an Arrowman is rooted in the sense of enjoyment I
see around me. Here at the National Planning Meeting, there are 47 very excited
Section Chiefs working with top adult advisers to plan a National OA Conference.
That same enthusiasm for the NOAC is carried back all over the country and infectiously
spreads to all 185,000 members of our Order. The smile on the face of a new Arrowman
as he receives his sash and admonition never ceases to impress upon me the great
impact we have in the Order.
What is the coolest thing you have done in Scouting?
As I mentioned earlier I attended the 1998 NOAC at the age of 13. Attending the
Conference was truly a turning point in my life. The chance to experience the Order
on such a large scale made me realize how unbelievable the organization is.
What awesome things have you done in the OA?
In 2001 I was privileged to attend the National Jamboree as a member of the Order
of the Arrow Service Corps. The experiences from the two weeks I spent working with
my brothers in Virginia have provided me countless memories and some incredible
friendships I treasure even to this day.
What makes the OA so cool?
The coolest part of the OA is our ability to affect change, through youth leadership.
I know of no other organization so dedicated to developing the leadership of young
men through practical experience, and I think it is reflected in the great programs
we run from a local to national level.
Do you have any closing thoughts?
I like this quote:
I exist as I am, that is enough, If no other in the world be aware I sit content,
And if each and all be aware, I sit content.
-Walt Whitman
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