The Board has started the process of determining the structural stability of the Chapter facility.

This analysis will be the foundation for determining our course of action with regards to the future of the House.  The question we are seeking to answer is:  Can the facility's current structural state (the exterior walls and foundation) withstand another 100 years?  Once completed, the Board will move forward with a formal RFQ to be sent to architectural firms.  Throughout the process, we will do our very best to keep Alumni apprised of our progress.

This entire process, unfortunately, will take a great deal of time.  We ask that all alumni brothers be patient as we move through this process in determining the future of our facility.

If you have any questions about the facility, or other board operations, please reply to this email and we will reach out to you to discuss your areas of concern.

Terry D. Keiser ('64), professor of biological sciences and chair of the department of biological and allied health sciences at Ohio Northern University, has been named the 2008-2009 president-elect of the Ohio Academy of Science.

Keiser is a fellow of the academy and has been active in the organization for more than 40 years. He was a member of the Junior Academy Council for 30 years and served as vice president of the natural resources section. He also has been published in the academy's journal.

A 1964 graduate of Ohio Northern, Keiser joined the faculty in 1967. Beginning his career as instructor and then professor, Keiser currently serves as chair of the biological sciences department, chair of the University Council and special trustee on the University's Board of Trustees. He was instrumental in establishing both the ONU Tidd-Oakes Farm (a 300-acre wetlands restoration project just 12 miles from campus) and the ONU Metzger Nature Center in Tuscarawas County, Ohio. Keiser also serves as the Nature Center's director.(Soure:  www.onu.edu)

The 4th of July holiday gives us all an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made for this country so that we may enjoy the freedoms we all cherish.

In my personal reflection, I can't help but recount tales from Ohio Alpha's storied past.  The era of World War II, when many brothers were called to serve their country and defend freedom.  The recent conflicts in the Middle East, when again brothers were called to serve this country.  Our chapter has weathered many storms, and come through them in a much better position.

I have also spent some time reflecting on the individuals who have helped shape Ohio Alpha.  George Hindall, Dick Leagre, Frank Lyons

(I'm sure there are Brothers I am omitting, and for that I do apologize).  I want to add Hal Hodson's name to that list.  I recently had an opportunity to spend time with "Huck" at his home on a Saturday afternoon.  In our conversation, the Fraternity discussion came front and center.  We talked about the House before the renovation, after the renovation, and where the House will be in the future.  One thing became very clear to me, Huck still holds a special place in his heart for Alpha.  Hell, he was the largest contributor to the Building of the Heart Campaign (if anyone needs proof).

Coming away from my visit, I thought "Wow, how lucky is Ohio Alpha to still have an alum with such strong feelings after nearly 60 years away." 

 

Thank you, Hal.  Thank you for your time.  Thank you for your insights.  And, thank you for still caring about Ohio Alpha.

As always, if you ever have any questions or concerns, please reach out to me directly.  My phone number is 440-396-8475 and my email address is chrisstone@columbus.rr.com.

HFF

Chris