The word Squire means "a young nobleman acting as an attendant to a knight before becoming a knight himself." The same can be said about the Squires program in association with DeMolay, as they are a sub-organization for members that are not yet of DeMolay age. Squires are for young men 9-11 years of age, with encouragement for them to join DeMolay when they become 12.
Although this is a new concept in Pennsylvania, the Squires program has been around since 1995. It teaches the important lessons of Justice, Truth, and Wisdom. The proper term for a group of Squires is a "Manor," just like members of DeMolay are in "Chapters." Squires hold meetings, participate in fun events and activities, and interact with the DeMolay members. The DeMolays serve as mentors for the Squires, hoping to one day bring them into the Chapter.
What does it take to start a Squire Manor? There are several things needed to form a Manor, but the main thing is interest from all involved. A Manor will only exist with interested Squires, Advisors, and DeMolay members. A DeMolay Chapter serves as a sponsor to the Squire Manor. One DeMolay will serve as the Squire Mentor and at least two DeMolay Advisors should serve as the Advisors for the Manor. A Manor should start with 3 Squires, receiving a Charter after receiving 5 Squires. There are several other requirements needed, which I will provide in a link at the bottom of the blog post.
The Squire program can be a successful addition to DeMolay if run properly. It provides a program that can initiate membership for the Chapter. So far, Pennsylvania has 3 Squires Manors that are recognized by DeMolay International: Liberty Manor, sponsored by Northeast Chapter; Carlisle Manor, sponsored by Carlisle Chapter; and William C. Graham Manor, sponsored by Lorraine Chapter. There have been several other Chapters that have expressed interest in starting a Squires Manor as well. The future of DeMolay is bright with the success of the Squire program.
The overall goal of DeMolay is to build young men into better leaders. We always hear that the key to being a leader is to "Lead by example." How does one accomplish this? Here are some important steps I found that will help us effectively lead by example:
1. Take responsibility. As a leader, mistakes may happen. Laying blame to those mistakes will cause you lose your credibility. The key is to help guide in fixing those mistakes.
2. Be truthful. Everyone's parent has once told them that "Honesty is the best policy." As a leader, if you're not honest with others, they will lose respect in your leadership qualities.
3. Be courageous. If members of a team see that you are willing to take the risk, they will be more likely to follow. Be the first to take the leap.
4. Acknowledge failure. Not every mission is a successful one. Learning from our failures is what makes us better people, and in this case a better team.
5. Be persistent. "If at first you don't succeed, try, try again." A leader doesn't give up too easy. A goal can still be attained even if it's not achieved the first time. The harder you work, the more likely the goal will be attained.
6. Listen and learn. Asking questions is a sign of efficiency, not a sign of weakness. Just because your in a leadership role, doesn't mean you can't listen, take suggestions and ask questions.
7. Delegate based on strengths. Do not take on all the work yourself. Every member of a team has core values. Figure them out and utilize them to reach success.
For anyone going through the chairs in DeMolay, planning to become a State Officer, or in some way will work in an area that involves leadership, I urge you to think about these steps. Be the leader that others need you to be.
Until next time - "Dad" Joe Pullin
Here is the link that I found my information if you'd like to view it.
November is finally here, which means that it's DeMolay Rush Month. DeMolay International has dedicated the entire month of November to promoting this great organization and attempting to bring in new members to DeMolay. This is a way to be proud of the organization that has turned us into the people we are today.
So what are some things that you can do to promote DeMolay in Pennsylvania? The first thing is to wear a DeMolay shirt to school or work. DeMolay International is making every Tuesday a day in which you wear a DeMolay shirt, but why limit it to just Tuesday. Social media posts are another way that can help promote DeMolay. Post a picture of you wearing your DeMolay shirt and post it to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or any other form of social media (maybe even Myspace.) When posting, please remember to use the #IAMDEMOLAY. This is an attempt to make DeMolay a trending topic all over the world throughout November.
So what are your waiting for? Get out there and promote the greatest youth organization around. Start posting and start bringing in new members. Pennsylvania is currently in second place with 73 new members. Lets make our way to first place. We can do it!
Today we have a guest post written by "Dad" Zack Panitzke, Director of Key Man University.
It’s that time of year again. Beginning today, we’re accepting applications to be the 2016 KeyMan University Youth Director.
The application is available [here]. We’ll accept applications until Sunday, December 6, 2015. After that date, we’ll evaluate applications and present the best candidates with a special, open-ended project. No details on the project are available now - you’ll have to apply to find out more!
In order to qualify, you must have attended at least one Key Man Conference in the past. You also must be able to arrive at Patton Campus in Elizabethtown, PA no later than 9 am on Saturday, July 30, 2016 and stay until Saturday, August 6, 2016.
Read through the responsibilities and application process below. You might also review the Key Man University online materials. Finding out what you can about the job and the employer is an essential part of any job application process.
Responsibilities
As the Youth Director, you’re responsible to be the face of Key Man University. You’ll get to work with the Directors and the rest of the staff to plan and execute the conference. Before the conference, there are a few specific responsibilities, including:
Develop a unique program to complement the coursework and extracurricular activities at KMU.
Assist with curriculum idea generation.
Write introductory and closing speech material for the beginning and end of the Conference.
Attend regular virtual Director meetings.
During the week, you’ll have a few other responsibilities as well:
Implement your unique program, including instruction, observation, and gathering feedback.
Preside at opening session, closing session, awards banquet, and other public presentations such as activities at the Masonic Village.
Host distinguished visitors during meals.
Supervise all flag raising and lowering events.
Participate in disciplinary discussions involving Key Men and staff unrelated to zero tolerance issues. You will be the youth advocate, helping the young men communicate through the conflict.
Be the “eyes and ears” for feedback from the attendees, including observing all aspects of the program and interacting with the members as they experience the week.
Provide courteous lights out enforcement.
Application Process
So how do you apply to be Youth Director? Follow these steps!
Submit your application by filling out [this form].
If you’re selected, we’ll notify you within one week of the application deadline.
We’ll present you with the challenge project. You’ll have one month to complete it as you see fit - it’s completely open-ended and intended to test you on your planning and coordination abilities.
At the end of the project period, we’ll contact you to schedule an interview. The interview will offer you an opportunity to talk about your project and convince the Directors that you are the best candidate for the job. The interview will be much like a real job interview, because this job comes with real responsibility. You won’t need to wear a suit, but you should look presentable and be ready to discuss your qualifications.
We hope to make a final selection within a week of concluding the interviews. We’ll send you an email and an official invitation by mail.
That’s it! Fill out your application and get it to us as soon as possible. We look forward to reading it!
Today's post comes from "Dad" Bill Sardone, Executive Officer of New York and Grand Junior Councilor of DeMolay International. This piece was originally published in NY DeMolay's Newsletter, "The Bridge." Thanks to "Dad" Sardone for letting us share it with you!
This time of year, members, Sweethearts, and Advisors alike take time to spend with their families. No matter which holiday you celebrate, the end of the year always seems to draw families together. During the rest of the year, sometimes we can neglect time spent with family, especially when we are so involved in things like work, extra-curriculars, and even DeMolay.
As we become more involved in the Masonic organizations, and especially as we rise through the ranks to take on Region and State offices, time spent relaxing with family can seem like a pipe dream. It's important to make family time a priority, even when you're busy with your Masonic Family. Here are a few things some families have tried:
Make Family a Priority. We discussed this in a previous ESD edition, but it bears repeating. One thing DeMolay teaches us is the importance of family. Family should always come first. If you have a family obligation the same day as a DeMolay event, spend time with your family. Your Brothers will understand.
Include Your Family in DeMolay Activities: Invite your family members along to help share in something you are passionate about. Whether it be a fundraiser, a prospect event, or a state event like the Strike It Up State Bowling Event, extend an invitation to your family and show them what you've been up to.
Family Time is Family Time. If DeMolay tends to be the topic of conversation in your house more than anything else, pick a time where your family focuses on other things. Some families use meal times to discuss interests outside of DeMolay. You can get back to discussing details for your Installation later.
Do Things That Interest Your Family. If your family members aren't as active in DeMolay as you are, that's perfectly fine. But if they take the time to come out to your meetings and fundraisers, be sure to take time out to attend events and activities that they are interested in as well.
Never Forget Your Real Family. While DeMolay gives us more "Brothers" and "Dads" and "Moms" than we know what to do with, don't forget your real brothers, sisters, mothers and fathers. You can have a large Masonic Family, just don't forget those who have been there for you before you were initiated.
Remember it's always "God Bless the Mother, God Bless the Father," before "God Bless the purposes of DeMolay." Make room for both families in your life and remember to thank all those who support you, no matter which they are from.
A long running joke here at the PA DeMolay office is the use of the word "art." When "Dad" Matt Blaisdell and I would work together on a project, we'd often have several failed versions or ideas that were totally off the wall. In order to feel like these scraps were useful, "Dad" Blaisdell would refer to them as "art."
Blank sheet of paper tacked to the wall? "Art." Stamping his arm with an address stamper. "Art." Pile of crumpled up designs - why, "That's art of course!"
While we may not be top tier artists (alright, Matt is, but I'm certainly not) there are DeMolays all over the world doing really creative things to bring awareness to our fraternity. I checked out some pieces on artist sites and pulled the ten most interesting items I found. They come from a wide variety of styles and ideas, showing just how creative our DeMolays are. Enjoy!
The other day, "Dad" Dave Berry, Executive Secretary of PA DeMolay, was waiting for a ride to an event. The ride was several minutes late and "Dad" Berry was becoming impatient. He remarked to me about how it seems that people are getting worse and worse at arriving to places on time or meeting deadlines.
It's a trend that I've personally witnessed in both my professional and Masonic careers. In general, people have become more lackadaisical about arriving to appointments on time or meeting deadlines assigned to them. No longer is "early the same as on time." Rather, you're lucky if people arrive when they say they will - and more often than not, you settle for people being up to fifteen minutes late. Deadlines are hardly that any more, as having materials turned in within a day or two of a due date has become acceptable. It's a sad state of affairs.When I worked at Games Workshop, I picked up a story that applies to this issue perfectly.
A college Broadcast Communications Class was having a final exam, wherein they had to produce a full, half hour television news program. The show was to begin at 6 PM, sharp, and include all of the items that a normal news show contains. The class did an amazing job - the news was timely, with sharp writing; the weather was clear and concise; the interest stories were moving and well planned. The class thought they had aced the final. Sadly, they were mistaken, as each and every one of them received a failing grade. Outraged, they went after the professor asking him why they failed and demanded an explanation. The professor asked them what time the program was supposed to start. One student responded 6 PM. The professor played back the recording of the program, pointing to the timer in the lower, right hand corner of the screen. He asked the class what time was shown. A student responded "6:03:25."
"... and that's why you failed. The six o'clock news doesn't start at 6:03. No matter how good your program is, if you can't start it on time, then no one will watch it."
Consistent, well regulated time management skills are the most important thing a young person can learn today. If you can master managing your own time, you'll already be leaps and bounds ahead of those around you.
The first time I encountered the term "double letter foul" was from "Dad" Brent Richards. He was explaining the proper wearing of DeMolay regalia when he told us not to "double letter." Confused, I asked him what he meant by this. He explained that in the collegiate Greek fraternity system, it was considered bad form to wear more than one garment or piece of jewelry proclaiming your fraternity allegiance at one in the same time. If you were wearing your fraternity hat, you didn't also need to wear a fraternity sweatshirt. It was a simple, unwritten rule to keep people from going over the top.
In DeMolay, there are several ways to commit a double letter foul. For instance, if you are wearing your Chevalier cords, then you shouldn't also be wearing a Chevalier pin. Likewise, if you are wearing a Blue Honor Key, you shouldn't also wear your Founder's Membership Award. By displaying former, we already know that you have earned the latter.
I often see this happen with the multiple wearing of lapel pins and honors. Remember the old rule - one of each! You should wear no more than one honor or award around your neck, on your lapel, on your pocket, and on your hand. Also, as much as possible, they should all be for different things.
As an example, the wearing of an RD Medallion, a PMC Jewel, a Number One pin, and a Chevalier Ring is a perfect way to show that you have earned many awards and honors in DeMolay without going overboard. However, wearing your RD Medallion, Chevalier Cords, PMC Jewel, PMC-MSA, RD Lapel Pin, Chevalier Tie Tack, and Chevalier Ring is extreme and very overboard.
Whenever you are representing DeMolay in public, remember to wear only one DeMolay piece of clothing at a time. If you are wearing that awesome new shirt your Chapter just had created, you don't also need DeMolay shorts and a DeMolay hat. People will notice your shirt and ask you about it. They won't be any more inclined to ask you if you wear three more additional versions of the same logo. If they are interested, they'll ask. If not, they won't.
This issue isn't just limited to DeMolay! I see members of the Masonic Fraternity double lettering all of the time! More people than you may realize notice choices such as these and make judgments about the wearer without even knowing. It's always better to be safe and wear your affiliation in moderation. Be proud of what you have earned, but don't overdo it!
In the last year, bow ties have taken the DeMolay world by storm. They are a quirky, fun alternative to the regular four in hand tie. Even DeMolay International got in on the action with a series of excellent bow ties. Any DeMolay who wants to really show off, now wears a bow tie. So, what's the next step in fashion rejuvenation? Enter, the Pocket Square.
I'm a big of pocket squares, as I feel they add a distinct and dapper look to any jacket. However, just like with bow ties, they require a little finesse to really make right. Check out the handy guide I've posted below on how to fold a pocket square.
In DeMolay, we often talk about the idea of servant leadership. It's a style of leadership that I have attempted to adopt as I have taken on roles in other Masonic organizations. It's served me well, but I recently began to ponder where it came from and its true definition.
According to Wikipedia, the idea of servant leadership has existed from time immemorial. From the Tao Te Ching, to the Gospel of Mark, to the doctrines of Islam, the ideas of servant leadership have been a major part of movements for thousands of years. However, the term "servant leadership" was coined in 1970 by Robert Greenleaf, a management executive, in his essay "The Servant as Leader." In it, Greenleaf wrote:
“The servant-leader is servant first… It begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead. That person is sharply different from one who is leader first, perhaps because of the need to assuage an unusual power drive or to acquire material possessions…The leader-first and the servant-first are two extreme types. Between them there are shadings and blends that are part of the infinite variety of human nature.
The difference manifests itself in the care taken by the servant-first to make sure that other people’s highest priority needs are being served. The best test, and difficult to administer, is: Do those served grow as persons? Do they, while being served, become healthier, wiser, freer, more autonomous, more likely themselves to become servants? And, what is the effect on the least privileged in society? Will they benefit or at least not be further deprived?“
Greenleaf's paper ignited the management community and his new style of leadership became quite popular. Others would go on to research his idea and later the 10 Principles of Servant Leadership were established. They are as follows:
Listening: A servant leader puts the emphasis upon listening effectively to others.
Empathy: A servant leader needs to understand others' feelings and perspectives.
Healing: A servant leader helps foster each person's emotional and spiritual health and wholeness.
Awareness: A servant leader understands his or her own values and feelings, strengths and weaknesses.
Persuasion: A servant leader influences others through their persuasiveness.
Conceptualization: A servant leader needs to integrate present realities and future possibilities.
Foresight: A servant leader needs to have a well developed sense of intuition about how the past, present, and future are connected.
Stewardship: A servant leader is a steward who holds an organization's resources in trust for the greater good.
Commitment to the growth of people: A servant leader is responsible for serving the need of others.
Building community: A servant leader is to help create a sense of community among people.
These are great principles to put into effect when you are leading a DeMolay Chapter. They serve as sort of a "road map" of how a leader should behave.
Now, how can you apply these ideas in your life to become a better servant leader?
Yesterday, we referenced a book entitled the 9th edition of the "DeMolay Handbook." This book was the precursor to our current DeMolay Leader's Resources Guide. Over the course of nearly 100 years, these books have contained all of the information a new Brother or Advisor would need to get into the DeMolay program. While not comprehensive, these tomes contain vast amounts of information and knowledge and offer a glimpse into the DeMolay world at the time of publishing. The first edition was published in May of 1959, only a few months before Dad Land died.
I recently came across a very, very early predecessor to this document, dating from around 1927. This book was called the "Member's Record Book" and contained spaces for a DeMolay to fill in pertinent information about his fraternal career. The Member's Record Book was regularly published and mailed to every new member until the mid-1980's, when it became cost-prohibitive. However, of more value to us, today, is the historical context we can pull from this particular piece.
Highlights include graphics and images, including previously unavailable photos of Frank Land and Alexander Cochran (the Order's first Grand Master); details on the early organization and operation of the "Grand Council"; information on early honors and awards, previously unidentified; details on the early Legion of Honor and how it was administered prior to the creation of the Degree of Chevalier; along with a plethora of information on how the early leaders of the group envisioned its place in society.
As a service to all DeMolays, PA DeMolay has made this document available for download. Just click here!
We hope you enjoy this resource and that it can provide a point of reference for DeMolay historians the world over!
"Dad" Labagh came to me last week looking for an article called "Alphabet Soup" that we used to have published on the website. I went in search of the article and had a hard time finding it. Low and behold, it was published on the website, just not in an easy to find place. So, I thought I'd "republish" it here, making it an easier resource to find. (For future reference, the article has been moved and is now published on the Chapter Forms and Resources Page as .pdf file.)
Like many groups, DeMolay is full of abbreviations, acronymns, and "for shorts." This short hand can get pretty confusing, especially if you're new to it. So, here's a key to some of the "code words" you're likely to run into in PA DeMolay. Now you can be "in the know" ... or should we say "in the soup?"
ACR - Advisory Council Registration - refers to either the process or the form.
AHK - Advisor's Honor Key
ALOH - The Active Legion of Honor
AWA - Adult Worker Application, the form that must be filed for every potential adult volunteer in DeMolay.
Atown - Short for Allentown Chapter
BHK - Blue Honor Key
Chev - The Degree of Chevalier
DAD - The "DeMolay Advisor Development" training course, not to be confused with "Dad," a form of address for
male Advisors.
DEO - Deputy Executive Officer
DI - DeMolay International
DSA - Distinguished Service Award
DSMC - Deputy State Master Councilor
DSOP - Director of the State Officer Program
EO - Executive Officer
ES - Executive Secretary
Etown - Short for Elizabethtown Chapter, or for the PA DeMolay office, as in "the Etown office."
FBC - Short for Friendship-Bray Chapter
FLS - First-Line Signer, the first recommender on an application for membership. A "recruiter."
FSL - Frank Sherman Land, founder of DeMolay.
FMA - Founder's Membership Award
GLA - Guild of the Leather Apron ("Advisor of the Year")
GMC - Grand Master's Class, a state-wide induction held every 2 years in honor of the Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvania.
GW - Short for George Washington Chapter
HLOH - The Honorary Legion of Honor
ICS - International Congress Secretary
IMC - International Master Councilor
ISC - The International Supreme Council, also just "DeMolay International"
KeyCru - The Keystone Crusader, PA DeMolay's official newsletter
KMC (KMU) - The PA DeMolay Key Man Conference (Key Man University)
LCC - Leadership Correspondence Course
LOH - The Legion of Honor
MATOC - The Mid-Atlantic Tournament of Champions ritual competition
MCC - The Masonic Conference Center, Patton Campus in Elizabethtown
Obs Card - An Obligations Card, given for demonstrating knowledge of the DeMolay Obligations
PICS - Past International Congress Secretary
The Pike or "Pikers" - Chester Pike Chapter and its members.
PIMC - Past International Master Councilor
PMC - Past Master Councilor
PMC-MSA - The Past Master Councilor's Meritorious Service Award
PSMC - Past State Master Councilor
PMYF - The Pennsylvania Masonic Youth Foundation
RD - The Representative DeMolay Award
RUARD - A "catchy" way of asking "aRe yoU A Representative DeMolay?"
SJC - State Junior Councilor
SMC - State Master Councilor
SSC - State Senior Councilor
SScr - State Scribe
ST - State Treasurer
ZKey - The Zerubbabel Key
Chapter Officers - These abbreviations are commonly used to designate Chapter Officers. In most cases, you can add an "S" in front to designate the corresponding State Officer.
We’ve spent the last several weeks promoting Key Man University, to great success, but I recently realized that we haven’t said much about Convention 2014. While the registrations are now past due, I do want to give some updates on the program for those who are going to attend. Convention 2014 has several significant changes from last year’s Convention, mostly to accommodate extra celebrations for our 90th Anniversary.
Beginning on Friday afternoon, July 18, 2014, attendees are invited to attend a private tour and show at the Reading Museum and Planetarium. While this activity is optional, we got such a great deal on it that we were able to include it in the price for Convention for everyone registering for the appropriate package. The planetarium show will be on Black Holes and their effect on space, so you won’t want to miss it!
Friday evening will start with an awesome all American traditional BBQ, consisting of hot dogs, hamburgers, country fried chicken, corn on the cob, baked beans, red potatoes, and more! Following the meal, members and Advisors will take a quick trip over to the Works at Wyomissing, where they will enjoy unlimited non-ticket video games from 6:30 to 10:30 PM. Each person will also receive a $5 gift card, good for ticketed games, food, or to apply towards go-kart racing at the attached go-kart track. Attendees will return to the hotel by 11 PM, with an 11:15 PM curfew.
Saturday is going to be a big (and long) day, so prepare yourself! Breakfast kicks off at 8 AM, with a full buffet, including eggs, bacon, potatoes, pastries, biscuits, and other cold items. We start the morning with the business session. Yes, that’s right, the business session will be happening first thing in the morning, rather than the afternoon. The business session should roll right into our Awards Luncheon, which will end with an address from a very special Key Note Speaker (which we’re keeping under wraps for now!) The menu will consist of a stuffed chicken breast, with cornbread stuffing, roasted potatoes, a vegetable blend, dessert, and other trimmings. Our goal is to have the luncheon done as early as possible, but we’ve padded the time just to be sure.
Beginning at 2:30 PM, active DeMolays and Advisors will be divided into two groups for workshops. The dress for these workshops is business casual, so if lunch ends early, there will be time to change. Active DeMolays will have a ritual workshop, while the Advisors will have a round table discussion with “Dad” Labagh, our Executive Officer.
At 3:10 PM, the workshops will wrap up. Advisors who are members of the DeMolay Legion of Honor are invited to attend the Legion of Honor Secret Vow. Starting at 4:00 PM, active DeMolays, Advisors, members, and friends, are invited to attend conferral of the DeMolay Legion of Honor. We are asking that each Chapter be represented by at least one DeMolay or Advisor at this event (members of the conferral team or recipients do not count.) A conferral of this sort has not been done at Convention in more than 10 years (in fact, it was the last time we were in Reading that we did it!) Please take this opportunity to witness a most impressive ceremony. Those not attending the Ceremony will have some free time.
As soon as the Legion of Honor Ceremony wraps up, everyone will enjoy a dinner of roast turkey, with stuffing and gravy, mashed potatoes, vegetables, dessert, and more. Dinner will be served to each upon arrival and dress is casual (for those that may have changed during free time.) The plan is to have dinner wrapped by 6:30 PM so that everyone will get a break and have an opportunity to change before the official start of our big 90th Anniversary Ball.
This dance will be the real deal, having a “Great Gatsby” theme, and playing host to the Diablo Sandwich Band, an 8 piece ensemble that can play hits from today and yesterday. During the dance, our new State Sweetheart will be crowned as well. The dance is jacket and tie or “Great Gatsby” themed dress, so plan appropriately. This should complete a fun filled day!
After all of this excitement, we will be wrapping our Convention up on Sunday morning with the Installation of State Officers and remarks by our new State Master Councilor. The meal will consist of another breakfast buffet, with plenty of food for all. You certainly won’t leave Convention hungry!
The PA DeMolay and More Store will be open for several hours during the event, as well as a hospitality suite operated by Reading Chapter. What more could you ask for?
While I’m sure there will be hiccups, and that being in a jacket and tie all day on Saturday won’t be fun, the overall event is going to be fantastic and I look forward to greeting everyone in Reading in a few short weeks!
Today's post is from a special guest - "Dad" Peter Brusoe, Past International Master Councilor. Thanks, "Dad" Brusoe for your article!
Graduation season is upon us! Last week American University (www.american.edu) held their college graduation, this weekend my undergraduate, the University at Albany (www.albany.edu), holds theirs. It is truly an exciting time as colleges and universities honor their students for all of the hard work done to earn their degrees. Pomp and circumstance will soon be the bane of every university musician. One of the surest ways to tell graduation season is upon us, however, is the appearance of Dr. Suess’s "Oh the Places You Will Go" in gift shops and special stands set up at your favorite neighborhood bookstore.
"Oh the Places You Will Go" is a powerful story. It motivates the reader by talking about the brain in your head, your feet in the shoes, taking your mountain and climbing it. They then proceed to go to far off lands in the mystical and magical world that is Dr. Suess. There’s a strong admonition about avoiding the waiting place and not making excuses. It’s a great book, the elementary school student I read to during my lunch hour loves it. Yet, if I were to add a few footnotes to "Oh the Places You Will Go" it revolves around the companionship and responsibility.
Life is a journey and like most journeys it is not meant to be taken alone. We learn this in DeMolay. In our induction ceremony a new member journeys with the Senior Deacon and the Stewards. In the DeMolay drama while Jacques DeMolay is the star of the drama, it is Geoffroi de Charny who stands beside him. The Lord of the Rings is an epic six book drama. Yet, if Frodo did not have the Fellowship of the Ring, or Sam and the other Hobbits the book would have been called Your Guide to Mordor. If there was a time machine I would convince Theodor Geisel - Dr. Suess – to change the title to be "Oh the Places You Will Go Because of the love of your parents, the amazing teachers you had, and your other mentors and guides." The problem is that it does not rhyme that well. For those who are graduating or for those who will be graduating take the time to express appreciation to those who have helped propel you to the success you now enjoy. We hear in the flower talk how our mothers do the trouble healing, thoughtful and considerate things that only mothers seem to know how to do. Fathers do the amazing inspiring things that all sons need. We should make sure that we are doing our most to thank them for the guidance and support they give.
"Oh The Places You Will Go" is it fails to talk about the responsibility that comes with success. At graduations we hear that a degree is conferred with “The honors, duties and responsibilities there unto pertaining.” At the Legion of Honor Ceremony we hear that the door open wide to you for additional service, at DeMolay we hear that we need to translate our lives into ones of service. The Evangelist Luke records in his Gospel Account that to whom much is given much is expected.
To find a book that addresses that, one needs not to go far, rather, just look down the book shelf to The Lorax. It is a good choice for college graduates, and perhaps mandatory reading for all students. The Lorax talks about the decimation of The Truffula Trees by the Oncler and his compatriots. The Lorax, like an apocalyptical Old Testament prophet, comes back time and time again to warn the Oncler about the dangers of his activities. At the end what was a paradise is transformed into a dystopian ecological wasteland. The Lorax disappears and writes the words
UNLESS
The Once-ler ponders what this word means and then comes to the conclusion of this:
“UNLESS someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better.” The Oncler drops the last remaining seed of the Truffula Trees into the hands of the boy and girl waiting to go fix the mistakes of the preceding generation.
This, my brothers, is our greatest challenge. As we travel to whichever place we will go we must bring our passion and dedication with us and we must care. If you are a newly installed Master Councilor, take your chapter to new heights, and care very much. When you see something in your community that needs fixing – graffiti or trash- be the person who cares an awful lot to make the world a better place. If you are a recent college graduate or high school graduate take the education you have amassed over 13 or 17 years to make our world a better place.
My DeMolay Brother
Remember the Onceler
For every day we can care
our brotherhood is to share
In our home and nation
regardless of our station
From helping & caring others
to honoring our fathers & mothers
The future belongs to us
So come, let’s not fuss
For today we must do more
that is our noble chore.
Remember brothers, unless we care nothing is going to get better.
A little while ago, I wrote a blog post about the origination of the term "key" as it relates to our awards in DeMolay. The long story short is that the keys were used for pocket watches. Since writing that post, I've taken a bit more interest in watches and clocks and thought I'd share some of my findings here.
Many DeMolays pride themselves on being above the "fashion" curve so to speak. Our members generally know how to dress better than most of their friends and they have more experience with wearing a suit and dealing with formal settings. However, one of the "dying" arts in men's fashion is understanding the need and wearing of a good wrist watch.
Now, many of you are probably saying "But, "Dad" Anthony, I don't need a watch. I have a magical device in my pocket that does everything a watch can and much more - my phone!" While it's true that your phone can do all of the things a watch does, there are some advantages to wearing a watch, plus there is statement to be made with your choice as well.
Why would you choose a watch over a phone? The folks over at Arcadia NYC, a business that sells watches, offer the following reasons:
"Think of just how many occasions where it is rude or just impossible to look at your smartphone but totally acceptable to casually or discreetly glance at your wristwatch; The theater, a date, a concert, a meal with family or friends, an airplane, a business meeting, a job interview, while driving, and on and on and on. Add onto that the fact that watches are a beautiful, decorative accessory that is one of a very few that are totally socially acceptable for virtually all men and women if the design is appropriate – it gives a person a chance to express themselves in a way they may not be comfortable with using other forms of jewelry/adornment.
There are also professions that basically require that you have a watch – doctors, nurses, anyone who has to take someone’s pulse, needs a second hand to do it with. Therapists prefer to be able to discreetly keep track of that famous 50-minute hour without constantly looking obviously at the clock on the wall. Teachers can’t say to their students to keep their cellphones put away and then pull theirs out every 10 minutes to check their lesson plan scheduling. Drivers should know better than to be distracted with their cellphones while driving; but your wrist is almost attached to the steering wheel."
So, obviously there are still some very good reasons to wear a time piece on your wrist. Before you dismiss the idea of wearing a watch and go back to checking your phone, give the idea a chance. You might be surprised how wearing a watch makes a statement about you!
Perhaps later, I'll write an article about choosing a wrist watch... hmmmm....
Hello, Pennsylvania ~ "Dad" Loughin here with exciting news and KeyMan University Update!
Dad Panitzke and I, with a little help from the dedicated staff at the Youth Foundation, have nailed down the majors for Key Man University. They are, in no particular order:
Ritual
Brotherhood & Membership
Chapter Leadership
Communications & Media
Event & Program Planning
Personal Development
These new majors are essentially replacing the "track" system we’ve had in the past. Major selection is on a first-come, first-served basis. You’ll be choosing your major on the conference application, which is making its way around the Commonwealth now. You’ll have to rank all 6 from most preferred (rank 1) to least preferred (rank 6). Since the applications are out now, you might be best served to apply sooner rather than later [HINT]. You may also want to ask your Chapter Advisor for help filling out your application, since they’ll need to sign off on your attendance [HINT].
So, how is the conference going to work? You’ll have 6 core classes for your major covering a variety of topics in depth. You’ll have a chance to take a few classes from the other majors to either fill in a minor, or to get a taste of everything. You could also take some of the special interest classes that aren’t offered specifically for a major, but which will be equally informative.
The tracks aren’t the only things that are changing. The layout of the staff is as well, to accommodate the need for more guidance. In years past, we’ve had 2 dedicated staff members per chapter. We’ve added a third advisor to help you out through the week. The former "Chairman" is now a Department Chair, who will lead the development of most of the courses that you will be taking during the week. The remaining two advisors will be Academic Advisors, whose primary task is to aide you along the way with whatever you need. You may also see them teaching a class or two.
Along with these changes, we’re keeping some of the more popular aspects from previous conferences. We’re still participating in a Masonic service program at the Masonic Villages across from Patton Campus. We’ll still have tons of pool and gym time. We’re still offering opportunities to complete RDs and LCCs, earn proficiency cards, and learn ritual parts. "Dad" Richards is still going to lead a world-class chapel service. And, most importantly, we’ve still got Patton’s famous chocolate milk.
As both "Dad" Panitzke and I have mentioned in our previous posts, we want as many of you to come to Key Man this year as possible. But remember, major selection is on a first-come, first-served basis, and we may not be able to put you into the major you want if you register late. You should apply early and often. So let’s start seeing applications in Elizabethtown!
Recruiting new members is one the most vital parts to DeMolay. It's also one of the hardest. I can remember when I was a State Officer thinking "Yeesh, all we ever seem to talk about is membership. Can't we discuss something else once in a while?" Like many DeMolays, I knew how important memership was, but I wasn't quite sure how to go about fixing the problem. The last thing I wanted was some Advisor breathing down my neck about why I wasn't bringing any of my friends into the organization. As I became older and involved with the Masonic Fraternity, I found the message much the same. But, how I was supposed to get my friends interested?
Then, like a lightening bolt, I hit on the recruitment technique that has done wonders for me over the past few years and it's one of the easiet out there - tell them what they want to hear!
Wait, wait, wait - you're thinking that I'm telling you lie or make things up. That's not what I'm saying at all. For instance, I had a friend express interest in joining Freemasonry. I asked him about why he wanted to join. He talked to me about his perceptions of the Fraternity and how it did so many good, charitable deeds. He wanted to be involved in an organization that did those kinds of things. As we talked, I made sure to reinforce those aspects of charity to him, discussing all of the programs that Freemasonry offers that help our local communities. Before I knew it, he was joining my Lodge and sitting in the chairs.
But, this man already expressed interest. How does one get someone interested who knows nothing at all about the organization? Again, listen to what interests them. If a guy loves basketball, then talk up the PA DeMolay basketball tournament and how much fun you have there. If a guy is really into drama or acting, tell him about this awesome play you saw when you joined DeMolay. Making a connection between what we do and what interests a perspective member is the easiest way to get them interested in joining.
As is often said, without new members, our organization will cease to exist entirely in 9 years. All it takes to exten its life is you and your friends having a good time and enjoying what DeMolay has to offer. I know you can do it - so go recruit a member!
Hey there PA DeMolay fans. I want to apologize for the less-than-regular updates over the last week. It's been a bit busy in my world and the Blog just didn't make the top of the list of things to get done. But, fear not! For, I'm back and ready to blog some more (I mean, we are at darn near 500 posts on this thing!)
I know many DeMolays have become interested in how to tie a bow tie. So, I dug up the video from the Art of Manliness Blog and thought I'd share it with you here as a good way to get back into the groove. Enjoy!
While trying to come up with a good topic for today, I came across this infographic about success in life and extra curricular activities. Studies continue to show that activities outside of school, such as DeMolay, provide key life skills to those involved and better prepare members of the job market and real life. Check it out: (Click to make the image larger)
As you can see, by almost every measure, being involved with an organization such as DeMolay will increase your standing in society and give you a leg up. Taking a leadership role will take you even further. The next time you're trying to recruit a new member, have the advisors use this information to talk with his parents, as they might be interested to learn what DeMolay can do.
Today's post comes from "Dad" Zack Panitzke. "Dad" Pants, as he is often referred to, is taking on the challenge of directing the Key Man Conference for 2014. Today, he writes to introduce himself and the concept of the 2014 Conference. It sounds like it's going to be an amazing experience, so plan to attend now!
Greetings PA DeMolay! Dad “Pants” here. For those of you who don’t already know why an advisor from south of the Mason-Dixon is directing the Key Man Conference, I’ll give you a quick intro.
I’m originally from Erie Chapter and was active with PA DeMolay in the early 2000s. Since then, I’ve moved around a bit, but I’ve been serving as the Assistant Director of Convention in PA since 2009. In the meantime, I’ve also found a home at Edwin Albert Mroz Chapter in Falls Church, VA.
You may have already noticed the update to the Key Man page on this website. This year, “Dad” Dan Loughin and I are leading the charge toward a new concept for the conference: Key Man University, or KMU for short. Key Man University is all about giving you total control over your DeMolay learning experience.
KMU will offer you the ability to build your own experience one class at a time. When you register, you’ll be asked to select a major. Want to learn about how to be a better Ritualist? Choose the Ritual and Public Speaking major. Trying to put together a great term plan for your Chapter? Take on the Event and Program Planning major. How about beefing up your Chapter’s public interaction? Join the Communications and Media major.
Within the major program, you’ll find plenty of opportunity for customization. Say you’re a Senior Councilor looking to use your term as Master Councilor to work on your Chapter’s degree conferral. You can take the Event and Program Planning major, merge it with classes from Ritual and Public Speaking, and assemble a great conferral from introductions to refreshments.
I’m very excited to work with an all-star faculty to bring Key Man University to PA DeMolay. Registration and major selection are on a first-come, first-served basis. Will I see you there?
The word Squire means "a young nobleman acting as an attendant to a knight before becoming a knight himself." The same can be said about the Squires program in association with DeMolay, as they are a sub-organization for members that are not yet of DeMolay age. Squires are for young men 9-11 years of age, with encouragement for them to join DeMolay when they become 12.
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