Exploration:
Outer Zone Overnight(TM) is dedicated to the spirit of exploration, and all that exploration provides.
Exploration is the act of searching or traveling around a terrain for the purpose of discovery of resources or information. It is the action of traveling in or through an unfamiliar area in order to learn about it. Exploration is also achieved through analysis of a subject or theme. Outer Zone Overnight(TM) uses a variety of themes as a compliment to the exploration conducted in order to provide further personal discovery.
In this day and age, where satellites have mapped the entire surface of the earth, and most all things have been plotted in some way, shape or form, Outer Zone Overnight(TM) continues exploration by seeking places that are forgotten, abandoned, or just not well-known. These places could reside in what we call either the “Inner Zone” within city limit boundaries, where little known or long forgotten subterranean chambers and tunnels exist, abandoned reservoirs, little known odd city owned properties, etc., or it could be in the “Outer Zone”, outside the city limits, where one might find anything from abandoned watchtowers & prisons, abandoned military installations, abandoned railways, forgotten tunnel systems and highways and country roads, bridges to nowhere in the middle of nowhere, old mine shafts, forgotten public campgrounds that exist on no map, etc.
The “lost” and “forgotten” locations the Outer Zone Overnight(TM) seeks to explore and expose others to yield rich and unique histories and secrets, as well as several physical and mental challenges just to reach these locations.
Exploration of these locations involves three stages, with several sub-stages:
- Research for Discovery (Survey, Article, and Map Analysis)
- Initial Scouting, Data Recovery, and Planning (Site Contact, Documentation, Local Networking, Logistics Mapping)
- Adventure Trek or Overnight Event Execution (Waypoint deployment, Logistical Setup, Safety Provisions, Activity and Education Direction)
If you know of, or have heard of a unique location of uncommon knowledge, one that you’s like to make an expedition to, let us know… we would welcome the opportunity to discuss an O.Z. scout of the location, and possible use of the location for future program training and events.
What is required for an O.Z. scout:
- Credible and Accurate Location information
- Knowledge of the legal jurisdiction and ownership of the location property
- A safety plan that list the closes medical aid available
- All available information on the location and local customs
When an O.Z. sanctioned scout of a location occurs, data is recovered at every opportunity and through every means of data collection available, including photos, video, and interviews with any locals. It is important to find out as much as possible about local customs, laws, property rules, etc., and to make a good positive contact with locals at every encounter. Typically, any money spent on an O.Z.O. scout is stamped with “O.Z.O.” or the organization logo. Efforts are made to spend money on the local economies visited in support of those economies, as much of the “Outer Zone” is in desolate areas where locals may struggle to maintain their existence. We do what we can to make friends in the outer zone.
All data and notes collected are then taken to a planning meeting where senior organization staff will determine with the location scouts if an event and training program could occur at the location. The first considerations are always group safety and respect for the locals of the area. A safety plan with contingencies must exist before any further planning occurs, and this plan must be revisited through every stage of event planning and execution. Only then, will the event theme and activities be selected and planned for, with a revisitation to the safety plan at every change. Only then will the organization provide further logistical and materials support.
No event conducted may bear the O.Z.O. Logo without senior organization staff approval of the data collection efforts, safety plan, theme, and logistical planning. An O.Z.O. event, be it a scout or an overnight, is far more than just saying to others in the organization “This is happening here, meet me there.” If there is not a plan A, B, C and D, it is not an O.Z.O. event.
The organization recognizes leadership that looks to the safety and welfare of group members and participants over any other factor, and this does not occur without full logistical planning efforts and consultation with other organization staff.
As a member leads an event, they are provisionally provided the title of “Event Commander” while organizing the event and executing the event. This provides the member the opportunity to succeed or fail in leadership of the event. They are expected to take the lead, make decisions, and confer with other organization leadership to attain decisions when in doubt. They will have the support of the other organization members and leaders so long as they conduct themselves as a leader worthy of being followed. Organization members will provide them respect as leader so long as it is warranted during the event. Respect is earned, and we hope to help you gain that respect, but it is not an easy road.
Once a member has conducted a successful scout of a location (or several), and fully conducted an approved themed event of no less than six O.Z.O. participants, demonstrating the elements of of a leader who leads by example and looks to the safety of those they lead above all else, the member graduates from being a general member “Scout Operative” to the honorary permanent honorary title of “Commander”. “Commanders are issued a special event heavy-duty dog tag with a logo similar to the following after “their” event is completed. If they have not already earned an O.Z.O. nickname in a successful scout or event action, they will be bestowed one by the other commanders. There is no self ascription of title or rank within the organization. Such things are earned.
*The title is honorary, and implies no special heightened rank in the organization legal structure.
*The legal structure appointments to title/rank within the organization are made by the C.E.O./President, Vice President, and Secretary as recorded in the organization charter.