Centennial Memory #92: Tri-State Convention in 1999

To celebrate the DeMolay Centennial, PA DeMolay will be counting down 100 memories worth celebrating that took place within the DeMolay Chapters and Jurisdiction of Pennsylvania.

In 1999, Pennsylvania DeMolay teamed up with New Jersey and Delaware DeMolay for a Tri-State Convention. The Convention was held at the Beach Terrace Hotel in Wildwood, New Jersey.

Here are some of the biggest takeaways from the 1999 Convention

• Brother Rakesh Kumar of Allentown Chapter presided for Pennsylvania as the current State Master Councilor.
• The newly elected State Master Councilor at Convention was Brother, and "Dad", Louis E. GrowMiller of Somerton Chapter. The rest of his officers were Deputy State Master Councilor, Walt Pietrowski; State Senior Councilor, Greg Deal; State Junior Councilor, William Wichterman; State Scribe, Ravi Shah; and State Treasurer, Brett Fisher. The State Sweetheart was Miss Meg Perla, representing Friendship-Bray Chapter.
• "Dad" Dave Glattly, who is currently the Sovereign Grand Commander for the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction of the Scottish Rite, was appointed as the Executive Officer of New Jersey DeMolay.
• The 1999 Convention Yearbook was divided into 3 sections to accommodate all three Jurisdictions represented at Convention.

For other takeaways from the 1999 Convention, refer to the photos below.

Until next time - "Dad" Joe Pullin

Meet the Candidates: Mitch Holmes for State Scribe

Convention is not to far away, so lets get to know the rest of our candidates for Elected State Office. We have two candidates for the office of State Scribe. Our second is Bro. Mitch Holmes of Templar Chapter.

Hello everyone. My name is Mitch Holmes and I am running for the Elected Office of State Scribe. I joined Templar Chapter almost 4 years ago, and since then, its been the best decision I made. The sense of Brotherhood and long-lasting relationships have kept me intrigued and interested in the organization since I have joined. Currently being an Appointed State Officer and Past Master Councilor, I want to get more involved on the state level by becoming an Elected State Officer.

What is your greatest DeMolay experience or accomplishment?
This is a hard question, as there are so many things I can say, but it would have to be when I became Master Councilor of my Chapter. Before I became Master Councilor, our Chapter had two active members, and we were very inactive. Of course, I was sort of nervous because I did not know much about DeMolay and I took a high leadership position with my Chapter. When I took this position, I learned several things about myself. I learned that I was a leader and wanted to do all I can for my Chapter to help it succeed. I got heavily involved with DeMolay to help make it better. With the help of my Advisors and my parents, I was able to bring in members and help revive my Chapter. This drive I have, to do better and help others, is what I want to do for PA DeMolay. Becoming Master Councilor was the reason why I am so intrigued with the organization.

Who are some of your DeMolay influences?

I have several influences that have inspired me in this organization. When I first joined, it was when PSMC Isaac Holtzer was SMC. The first E-town weekend I went to was Grand Master’s Class and I must say that I was impressed with everything. Between the friendly atmosphere, brotherhood, and unification, everything about that weekend influenced me to become more involved with DeMolay. I look at the state officers then, and even now as well, their actions and hard-work make me want to become more involved in DeMolay by helping others to succeed. My other influence was when I first went to KeyMan. It was the 2016 Conference when I first attended, and I did the Ritual and Performance Track. Since that KeyMan, my friends and Advisors who taught that course inspired me to do better and become more involved. Just an FYI, I did not know what ritual was until I attended KeyMan (thanks “Dad” Schaeffer!) These are just some of the influences, but they are the major ones.

What are your goals if elected to serve as a State Officer?

There are several things I wish to accomplish if I were to be elected as State Scribe. Besides working with the State Officer Corps and doing my duties, I want to push all state aspects such as programs and incentives. More recently, the Squire’s program has been approved in Pennsylvania and I would like to personally work with the chapters to help set up a Manor. I also want to help DeMolays with the Knighthood Program and influence others to become actively involved with our state programs issued by the SMC. I also want to work with Chapters and actively help plan prospect events around the state to help boost membership ratings and activity within the chapter level. With my leadership skills and experience of being part of the State Officer Corps, I feel that I can influence and help PA DeMolay to flourish within my term of office. I want to support our Chapters and DeMolay in PA in anyway I can and make others feel what I have felt in DeMolay as well as accomplish everything that I have accomplished. That in the future, PA DeMolay can grow and develop in the future.

Meet the Candidates: Andrew Caroselli for State Scribe

Convention is not to far away, so lets get to know the rest of our candidates for Elected State Office. We have two candidates for the office of State Scribe. Our first is Bro. Andrew Caroselli of Friendship-Bray Chapter. 

Hello, my name is Andrew Caroselli and I am running for the Office of State Scribe. I joined Friendship-Bray Chapter over 3 years ago and after my first weekend at Patton Campus I fell in love with DeMolay. My experience with DeMolay has been amazing and joining this organization has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. I still have a good amount of years left until I age out, and having already served as Master Councilor on the chapter level, I want to stay involved and serve on the state level. I want to help give to the members, what DeMolay has already given to me, and then some.

What is your greatest DeMolay experience or accomplishment?

I have had so many great experiences in DeMolay it is hard to count, but one of the best has to be KeyMan University. I have attended KeyMan three times and each one has been very rewarding. I learned how to raise awareness about DeMolay, plan successful events, be an effective leader and so much more. I also got the opportunity to make friends with people that live all over the country and Canada. In just one week, I made relationships that will last a lifetime.

Who are some of your DeMolay influences and how have they inspired you?

There have been many people that have helped me throughout my time in DeMolay, but one of the biggest has to be “Dad” Dennis Hunter. “Dad” Hunter was the Chapter Advisor when I first joined and he guided me through my first couple years in DeMolay and has always been there to help. He convinced me to stick with DeMolay when it wasn’t easy because I was busy with other things, and I'm glad that I did. He inspired me to run for the state line, and if it wasn’t for “Dad” Hunter I would not be where I am today.

What are your goals if elected to serve as a State Officer?

Aside from working with the State Master Councilor and other Elected State Officers which is a given, there are a few goals that I would like to accomplish if I am elected. The first is that I would like to talk to the new members as much as possible and make them feel welcome. To a new guy, simply sitting with them at lunch can go a long way. After I first joined, when I still didn’t really know anybody, I was at my first KeyMan and one of the State Officers at the time sort of took me under his wing. This made me feel welcome and comfortable so that I could meet even more people. On top of this I would like to make sure that DeMolay continues to be a fun organization where everyone can be involved whether you like to play sports or video games. Lastly I would like to visit all the chapters and help in any way that I can. Whether it be by giving ideas on how to improve membership or helping out at an installation. I want to be there to support them.

Meet the Candidates: Brandon Whited for State Junior Councilor

Convention is a little over a month away. Our second of two candidates for State Junior Councilor is Bro. Brandon Whited of Northeast Chapter.

My name is Brandon Whited and I am running for State Junior Councilor. I joined DeMolay at the age of 14 while attending Grand Masters Class in December of 2014. About a year after I joined DeMolay, I was given the opportunity to serve as Master Councilor for three consecutive terms. During my last term as Master Councilor, I received the PMC-MSA and DSA. My home chapter is Northeast and I am currently Senior Councilor. I plan to continue being a valuable asset to my chapter, helping every member in any way possible, and bring my knowledge and experiences to State Office.

What is your greatest DeMolay experience or accomplishment?

Throughout my years as a DeMolay, my greatest experience is receiving PMC-MSA. Receiving this award was an extremely humbling experience and I realize that without my brethren and advisors I could not earn this award. I was very excited when I received the PMC-MSA because I know that I and my chapter have worked extremely hard to complete the various tasks that were necessary. I will continue to work hard with my chapter and help all Master Councilors to the best of my ability, hoping that they too will receive this award.

Who are some of your DeMolay influences and how have they inspired you?

Dad Joe Pullin and Dad Alexander Swift have inspired me in various ways during my time in DeMolay. Upon meeting them I saw a brotherly bond, formed in DeMolay, that would be impossible to break. During every event, they emphasized the importance of teamwork and communication. When I started my first term as Master councilor, they were constantly helping me plan my events and assisted me in the execution of those events. Dad Pullin and Dad Swift are both great role models that have inspired me to always do my best. What are your goals if elected to serve as a State Officer?

If I am provided the opportunity to become a State Officer, I will work tirelessly with the other State Officers as a team to ensure that we will have a productive and successful term. I would like to help other chapters plan joint events together outside of the state weekends to strengthen their brotherhood. I would also focus on having more fun learning activities at Patton Campus and hopefully make learning fun for everyone. Lastly, I would want to focus on membership and the importance of getting new young men involved in DeMolay.

Registration for Convention is due June 10th. Make sure you are there for a chance to vote for the Elected State Officers to represent PA DeMolay for the 2018-2019 year.

Meet the Candidates: Kody Anderson for State Junior Councilor

Convention is soon approaching, and we have more candidates to get to know. We have two candidates for the office of State Junior Councilor The first is Bro. Kody Anderson of Elizabethtown Chapter.

Hi, I'm Kody Anderson and I'm a candidate for the office of State Junior Councilor. I joined Elizabethtown Chapter on September 21, 2014. After serving in several appointed offices and as Junior Councilor and Senior Councilor, I served as Master Councilor from January 7, 2017 to June 24, 2017. Following my term, I was appointed Assistant Scribe through the rest of 2017, and as Scribe for 2018. I've earned my Representative DeMolay Award, was a finalist in the RD of the Year Competition in 2017, and earned the LCC Lamp of Knowledge. Elizabethtown Chapter has a special DeMolay of the Year Award that is presented to the member who has provided the most hours of service to the chapter and after two years of being first runner up, I was named the Elizabethtown DeMolay of the Year in 2017 with over 120 hours of service. For the past year, I have been traveling to chapters in the area to help on Installing Teams, often serving as Installing Officer. At Convention, I was appointed Region E Representative, working with Elizabethtown and Riverside Chapters. I'll be a Senior at Donegal Area High School in the Fall. After High School, I plan to go to college to study Accounting. 

What is Your Greatest DeMolay Experience or Accomplishment?

My greatest accomplishment in DeMolay came recently with the opportunity to manage the Dodgeball for Dyslexia 4 Tournament that was held on May 12th. My goal was to grow a program that PMC Evan Crawford, the founder and manager for the first three years, had done a great job with. Through the help of many, our platinum sponsors grew from 8 to 12. Registered teams went from 12 to 14.  Funds raised in 2018 grew from $3,154 in 2017 to $3,940.  This was all possible because of the group of volunteers, chapters and Masonic organizations who worked with me with one goal in mind: raise the most money we could for the Children's Dyslexia Centers while having a lot of fun doing it. 

Who are some of your DeMolay influences and how have they inspired you?

One of my biggest influences in DeMolay is Jake Beers. When I was a brand new member in 2014, Jake was one of the guys I met when I went to my first DeMolay activity. Jake has inspired me to be the best that I can be. He has shown me that hard work and attention to detail is important in planning and executing programs. He’s shown me how to be a brother to every member. He’s always been available to offer advice, help when I’ve needed it, answer questions and assist me in figuring out things. He’s taught me that it’s important to be understanding and patient, and that it’s okay to have a good time while doing more serious things.

What are your goals if elected to serve as a State Officer?

If elected State Junior Councilor my goals will include:

1)  Working with the other Elected and Appointed State Offices to ensure the highest quality of programming.  Every program, every installation and every project we do should be well-planned, well-executed and the best that they can be. 

2)  I want to live up to the high expectations of those who elected me, always doing my very best. It’s not enough to just get a job done, it’s important to plan in advance, be thorough, to set an example that others will want to follow, and to be someone who inspires others to be and do their very best.

3)  I hope that I am able to help the entire team of state officers become more of a team, working toward common successes that will benefit each and every one of our members.

Registration for Convention is due June 10th. Make sure you are there for a chance to vote for the Elected State Officers to represent PA DeMolay for the 2018-2019 year.

Meet the Candidates: Dylan Kirk for Deputy State Master Councilor

It's almost time for the annual PA DeMolay Convention, so why not get to know our candidates for State Office. We have two candidates for the office of Deputy State Master Councilor. Here is our first, Bro. Dylan Kirk of Westmoreland Chapter. 

Hello! My name is Dylan Kirk and I have been a member of Westmoreland Chapter for nearly five years. I've spent the last two years as an Elected State Officer, currently serving as State Senior Councilor. I am 17 years old and finishing my junior year of high school. I am running for the office of Deputy State Master Councilor to further my DeMolay experience and to give back as much as I can. After serving one term as Master Councilor in my home chapter, I believed it was time for me to further my experience and join the state line. In larger chapters, once you become Master Councilor, that’s the extent you can go since you have new members wanting to move into the chairs. So, although I am still active in my chapter, I try to act as a leader to the newer DeMolay members and let them run the chapter. After all, they are the future.

What is your greatest DeMolay experience or accomplishment?

My greatest DeMolay experience or accomplishment would have to be becoming an ESO. It has taught me so many things like planning events, creating and meeting deadlines, time management, and one which I have improved a lot in, being able to speak off the cuff. Along with being an ESO you get to meet so many people, especially the DeMolay members. It’s great to talk to them at events and get to know them, knowing that I could be someone they look up to, that inspires me to be a good leader.

Who are some of your DeMolay influences and how have they inspired you?

I have had so many influences in DeMolay. Several Advisors, DeMolays, past State Officers. They have all influenced me and taught me many things. I don’t think I would be the person I am today without them.

What are your goals if elected to serve as a State Officer?

My goals if elected to serve as DSMC are to help unify the state and spend time with the West, helping them grow stronger. I want to contribute to individual growth, this is something that has been somewhat lost in DeMolay. Many members are just in DeMolay to have fun, which is great, but that’s not the only purpose of DeMolay. So I hope to encourage teaching the virtues of DeMolays and bettering members.

Meet the Candidates: Sean Reitze for State Master Councilor

Convention is right around the corner, which means that its time to elect our officers for 2018-2019. Here is our second candidate for State Master Councilor, Bro. Sean Reitze from Pilgrim Chapter.

My name is Sean Reitze, and I am running for the office of State Master Councilor for PA DeMolay. I have been a member of Pilgrim Chapter since May 14, 2013. In that time, I have served two terms as Master Councilor, received my PMC-MSA twice, and recently had the honor of receiving the Chevalier. Outside of my DeMolay life, I will be entering my junior year at West Chester University as a Communications major with minors in Computer Science, Spanish, and Leadership. In my free time, I enjoy listening to music, photography, and playing games on my Xbox 360.

If elected, what will your biggest area of focus be?

If elected State Master Councilor, my biggest area of focus would be working to create regular regional events, such as go-karting, bowling, dances, or other fun events. With Chapters working together, it makes it possible to have one awesome event, instead of spreading efforts out too thin. Collaboration is the key to success with our Chapters — everyone within a region has the power to plan and execute something that benefits not only their members, but also bring new friends into our Order.

What is your greatest DeMolay experience or accomplishment?

My greatest DeMolay experience in recent memory was my second time visiting Venango Chapter — to help obligate their first five members. It marked the start of new beginnings in Oil City, and it was amazing to see all of the hard work from many dedicated individuals come to fruition. I also had a great time meeting and getting to know the new members of Venango Chapter afterwards (even though they beat me in a few games of pool).

What do you see of your DeMolay legacy after serving as State Master Councilor?

After serving as State Master Councilor if elected, I would want my legacy to be looked back on as someone who worked to create unforgettable events, who made a difference, and seen as a team player. While it’s essential that we have memorable programs and events, it’s incredibly important to me that everyone feels valued and has their voices heard. The beauty of DeMolay is the fact that it is an organization for youth, run by youth. Each voice has something new to contribute to the dialogue, and I will acknowledge and respect each member’s voice equally. Following my time as an Active DeMolay, I plan on staying involved with PA DeMolay in the capacity of an Advisor and eventually hope to serve on the state staff. To me, DeMolay is a lifetime commitment — I want to be able to give back to DeMolay what it has given to me.

The registration deadline for Convention is June 10th. Make sure you are there for your chance to vote for your Elected State Officers. See you in Gettysburg! 

Meet the Candidates: Tyler Moyer for State Master Councilor

Convention is right around the corner, which means it will be time to vote for our Elected State Officers to serve for the 2018-2019 year. Here is one of the candidates for the office of State Master Councilor, Bro. Tyler Moyer from Pilgrim Chapter. 

While I’ve been a member of DeMolay for nearly eight years, it has been these last two years as an Elected State Officer and maintaining an active role in my local Chapter, that I’ve learned the most about DeMolay and what it truly means to be a member. As I progressed through the ESO line, I learned that the office of State Master Councilor is designed to give members an ultimate chance to give back to their brothers. My goals are simple, to make sure that each of us leaves the year with an understanding of what it means to be a DeMolay and how to do it. Also, to prepare us so that we can move into the next century running full-steam ahead; prepared to grow and develop our Chapters, but most importantly grow and develop ourselves.

If elected, what will be your biggest area of focus?

If elected State Master Councilor, my focus will be to create a positive learning environment for our members to build themselves through focused workshops at weekends and personal development time at our State functions. Our goal will be to see that the individual members and State go through three stages: education, development, and growth. If we receive the education and develop our skills, then we can see the benefits of growth; in ourselves, our chapters and our State. I’d be happy to tell you my exciting 3 step plan for next year, feel free to ask me.

What is your greatest DeMolay experience or accomplishment?

I think that my greatest DeMolay accomplishment/experience would have to be being the 2016 KeyMan Youth Director. While that position was more of an administrative role, I think that it gave me an insight into what being SMC would be like and what I would want to do with that opportunity. It taught me a lot about how to best balance the learning that is going on throughout the week with the fun that I had planned. Yes, I absolutely believe that our DeMolay program should be full of fun, but I also see the importance of education, and that’s what I hope to make sure we balance throughout the year.

What do you see of your DeMolay legacy after serving as State Master Councilor? 

We all want to be remembered for something. Whether that be as a great ritualist, athlete, or something else. I would love for my legacy to be based on being a motivator of change to help realign the focus of our program for others to build off of and make their legacies.

The registration deadline for Convention is June 10th. Make sure you are there for your chance to vote for your Elected State Officers. See you in Gettysburg! 

Convention 2018 in Gettsyburg

Who's ready for Convention 2018? PA DeMolay Convention is the annual meeting for the members and advisors of Pennsylvania to get together for fun and fellowship during the summer. The members get a chance to vote for their Elected State Officers, receive awards and scholarships for their hard work throughout the year, and, the most important element of a DeMolay Convention, have lots of fun with their friends from across the commonwealth. This year, Convention will take place in Gettysburg at the Eisenhower/Aspire Hotel and Convention Center from July 20th-22nd, 2018, and it promises to be like no other.  

For those arriving early on Friday, there will be an optional activity at All-Star Sports, which is conveniently located next to the hotel. The fun includes go-karts, mini golf and laser tag. Later on, the Friday night activity is a Civil War style escape room at 1863 Escape. You and your team will have one hour to solve the challenge and escape the room.

Saturday morning will be the annual business session where we will elect the officers that will serve Pennsylvania DeMolay for the 2018-2019 year. During the luncheon, awards and scholarships will be given to well deserving recipients; including RD of the Year, Most Visitations, Membership Awards, and Outstanding Chapter. In the afternoon there will be a special Photographic Scavenger Hunt that will take you to various battlefield sites. After dinner, an experienced tour guide will take groups of DeMolays and Advisors on a ghost tour of haunted areas of Gettysburg at Gettysburg Ghost Tours. The weekend will be complete with the installation of our next Elected State Officers on Sunday morning. 

Register now for Convention 2018! You will not want to miss out on this fun-filled event that only comes around once a year.

For the convention packet and all of the registration materials follow the link below

https://pademolay.org/pa-demolay-convention/ 

Until next time - Dad Joe Pullin 

   

Meet the Candidates: Jacob Reilly for State Scribe

Convention is just around the corner, so lets take a few minutes to meet the candidates for Elected State Office. Members will get the chance to elect their officers during the Business Session the Saturday morning of Convention. They were all asked to provide a biography and an answer to the three questions below.

My name is Jacob Reilly, I am running for State Scribe 2017-2018 term of Pennsylvania DeMolay. On March 2013 I proudly joined al-Aksa DeMolay located in Altoona, Pa. Since I joined, I have helped the Councilors of my chapter to the best of ability. On September 26, 2016 I became Master Councilor of al-Aksa Demolay, with the intent to increase membership and attendance to events and meetings. I earned the Past Master Councilor Meritorious Service Award, Representative DeMolay and Lamp of Knowledge. I am a Junior at Central High School in Martinsburg Pa, proud member of the FFA and National Honor Society and engaged in Central High School Soccer. I belong to the Boy Scouts of America of Troop 57 in Roaring Spring Pa. I am currently working on my Eagle Scout Project, hoping to have it completed by September of 2017. 

What are your goals if Elected to serve as an Elected State Officer?

My goal if elected as State Scribe is to keep proper records of the events. I plan to work with the State Master Councilor to make his term successful. I plan to help chapters across Pennsylvania to increase communication and strive to maintain membership and help members improve their leadership skills.

What is your greatest DeMolay experience or accomplishment?

My greatest Demolay experience is when I joined I helped restore al-Aksa DeMolay back to its proper form and the way every DeMolay chapter should be functioning and helping its membership increase throughout the years.

Who are your DeMolay influences and how have they inspired you?

My Greatest DeMolay influence is my father, Dad John Reilly. He has been my mentor since the day I joined DeMolay, giving me advice on leadership, ritual, and he has helped me love DeMolay as much as I do now. Also the Past Master Councilors of al-Aksa DeMolay and Past State Master Councilors of Pennsylvania have influenced me a lot throughout my DeMolay career.

Meet the Candidates: Timothy Nevil for State Treasurer

Convention is just around the corner, so lets take a few minutes to meet the candidates for Elected State Office. Members will get the chance to elect their officers during the Business Session the Saturday morning of Convention. They were all asked to provide a biography and an answer to the three questions below.

Hi guys, its Tim Nevil for those of you who might not know me, and I am a member of Elizabethtown Chapter. I was born in 2001 to my dad Martyn Nevil, current deputy director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and my mom Julia Nevil, who is the DME coordinator for the Orthopedic Institute of Pennsylvania. I have been raised in Middletown, which is a small town that sits between Hershey, Harrisburg, and Elizabethtown. I have attended Middletown Area School district my entire life and will be entering my junior year of High School. I am involved in many organizations around the school including marching band mini-thon and my High School radio station. My future goal in life is to attend college for a degree in Public Health. In 2014, I joined DeMolay as a part of Elizabethtown chapter and served as Master Councilor from June 2016 to January 2017, in which I received my PMC-MSA along with receiving my RD prior to my term. At Keyman 2016, I was selected as the keynote speaker for the week.

What are your goals if elected to serve as an Elected State Officer?

My goal as State Treasurer is to represent the members of the state. My goal for charity is to work alongside the state sweetheart and create statewide charity challenges and initiatives. I will be an active member for all brothers statewide by coming to all events and meetings that I can possibly make of every chapter. We are all in this fight together. It was once said that "We will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." I will make sure that as your friend and brother, I will never be silent in your defense.

Who are your DeMolay influences and how have they inspired you?

My DeMolay influences would have to be brother Jake Beers, and brother Tyler Moyer. Each for many different reasons. Brother Beers has been there ever since I joined DeMolay and has always been willing to support me if I needed. Brother Moyer helped provide an extra layer of support and on numerous occasions helped with challenges for charity and membership. Both of these brothers have been incredible leaders on the state level and inspire me and push me to be the best leader that I can be. 

What is your greatest DeMolay experience or accomplishment? 

My greatest DeMolay experience was attending Keyman University and being selected as the keynote speaker. The keynote speaker was just a minor accomplishment, especially because it was earned by everyone in my track. As a group, we faced some adversities that we never would have expected, but we fought and overcame those adversities. This showed me the true drive that everyone in my group and DeMolay has. It showed me that in our darkest hours, we will always rise higher and stronger than ever before.

Meet the Candidates: Sean Reitze for State Junior Councilor

Convention is just around the corner, so lets take a few minutes to meet the candidates for Elected State Office. Members will get the chance to elect their officers during the Business Session the Saturday morning of Convention. They were all asked to provide a biography and an answer to the three questions below.

Hello Pennsylvania DeMolay! My name is Sean Reitze and I am a member of Pilgrim Chapter. I am 19 years old and a student at West Chester University. I am majoring in Computer Science and minoring in Communication Studies and Spanish. As my major may suggest, I have an interest in technology and hope to bring that interest to PA DeMolay as I am running for the office of State Junior Councilor. Since joining DeMolay in May of 2013, I have earned my PMC-MSA for both terms of office as Master Councilor and I have served as an Appointed State Officer for two years. In my free time, I enjoy photography, travel, socializing, and throwing my free time away on social media and Netflix.

What are your goals if elected to serve as an Elected State Officer?

If elected, one of my goals involves enhancing communication across the State. We cannot be strong without communication between our State Officer Corps, Executive Officer, EO Staff, and all our Chapters. I would also like to utilize technology and social media to our advantage as they are becoming more integral to our lives. Social media can help bring DeMolay to a wider audience: we can help PA DeMolay grow in membership and remain relevant today.

Who are your DeMolay influences and how have they inspired you?

My greatest DeMolay influences include Dad Knapp and Dad Berry. They exemplify dedication to the Order and their support has shaped me to become the DeMolay I am today. I enjoy working with them; they motivate me and push me to be the best I can be.

What is your greatest DeMolay experience or accomplishment?

After a great deal of thought through all the events I have attended over the past four years, I would have to say that my greatest DeMolay experience would be the 007 Weekend at Patton Campus last term. A brilliant idea manifested into an excellent event with proper execution – this made it my most memorable Patton weekend to-date. 

Meet the Candidates: Dylan Kirk for State Senior Councilor

Convention is just around the corner, so lets take a few minutes to meet the candidates for Elected State Office. Members will get the chance to elect their officers during the Business Session the Saturday morning of Convention. They were all asked to provide a biography and an answer to the three questions below.

My name is Dylan Kirk and I am running for the office of State Senior Councilor. I am a Past Master Councilor of Westmoreland Chapter. This fall I will be entering my junior year of high school. Throughout my four years in DeMolay, I have earned several awards including my lamp of Knowledge and my Representative DeMolay Award. Some of my interests are baseball, hockey, and movies, my favorites are: the Cars trilogy, Saving Private Ryan, The Sandlot.

What are your goals if elected to serve as an Elected State Officer?
If elected to State Senior Councilor, I hope that I will be able to bring new ideas to help improve PA DeMolay. I also hope to help the individual chapters, a goal of mine is to visit each chapter at least once, so that we, as state officers, can have better communication with the chapters to help them improve as well.

What is your greatest DeMolay experience or accomplishment?

Although I have had many great experiences, varying from chapter events, to becoming a state officer. I’d have to pick going to the Naval Academy in Annapolis Maryland. I was Master Councilor of my chapter at the time and I chose to do that for My Government Day. It was a great experience that I will never forget.

Who are your DeMolay influences and how have they inspired you?

Of all the great people I have met and gotten to know in DeMolay, whether they are from my chapter or the state, many of them have taught me valuable lessons. Two of my greatest DeMolay influences are Adam Neubauer and Isaac Holtzer. Adam recruited me into DeMolay and was my mentor, at least I saw him that way, before the bro tie program. Isaac became State Master Councilor shortly after I joined. While he was SMC, he still participated in chapter events and I was able to observe his leadership style in the chapter and on the state level. I was able put that towards my own leadership skills, especially with being a state officer.

Meet the Candidates: Brian Martin for State Senior Councilor

Convention is just around the corner, so lets take a few minutes to meet the candidates for Elected State Office. Members will get the chance to elect their officers during the Business Session the Saturday morning of Convention. They were all asked to provide a biography and an answer to the three questions below.

Hello everyone, my name is Brian Eduardo Martin. I'm the first DeMolay and Mason of my family. I’m from Carlisle, PA and I'm a PMC of Carlisle Chapter. Some of my hobbies include golfing, fishing and hunting. My favorite superhero is Batman. My accomplishments include obtaining my PMC-MSA, DeMolay Varsity letter, RD and earning the Degree of Chevalier.

What are your goals if elected to serve as an Elected State Officer?

If I’m elected to serve Pennsylvania DeMolay as your State Senior Councilor I would like to help chapter's increase visitation amongst each other. I would also like to help find new ways to get DeMolay out there to the public to boost membership.

Who are your DeMolay influences and how have they inspired you?

My biggest DeMolay influence will not change. My influence is Bill Sardone. I look up to him ever since the day I met him. The passion for DeMolay that he exudes is what I stride for. I hope that exuding that passion to the younger DeMolays will make them love this organization as much as I do.

What is your greatest DeMolay experience or accomplishment?

My greatest DeMolay accomplishment to date is serving as State Scribe for Pennsylvania DeMolay. It taught me time management. This helped me become a better State office in learning how to juggle school, DeMolay and work. It also helped me get around Pennsylvania to meet new brothers that have yet come to a State weekends and or from another state. 

Meet the Candidates: Tyler Moyer for Deputy State Master Councilor

Convention is just around the corner, so lets take a few minutes to meet the candidates for Elected State Office. Members will get the chance to elect their officers during the Business Session the Saturday morning of Convention. They were all asked to provide a biography and an answer to the three questions below.

For those of you who may not know, my name is Benjamin Tyler Moyer; yes it really is Benjamin. I’ve been a member of DeMolay since KeyMan 2010 and have always thoroughly enjoyed it. During my time, I served as the Master Councilor of my Chapter multiple times, earning my PMC-MSA along the way. Last year I was elected to serve as your State Junior Councilor and over the course of the year I tried to become as active as possible. It was, and still is, my goal to be there as much as I can for our members, because it is through you that DeMolay will prosper.

What are your goals if elected to serve as an Elected State Officer?

If elected, it will be my goal to continue bringing new ideas to the table and to be a very visible State Officer. Coming to as many activities that are held on the Chapter level as possible. When I first became Master Councilor my brother told me that it should be my goal and it is my duty to try to leave the Chapter in better shape than when I joined it. That’s what will be my big goal for the next few years on the State level.

What is your greatest DeMolay experience or accomplishment?

My greatest DeMolay experience actually occurred last November. It was the Regional Game Truck Party that I had planned for my Chapter. I personally feel that it was the best event I’ve ever planned. We had close to 40 attendees; DeMolay’s and prospects. Having that be a success is what has reignited my fire for planning more Regional events in the future.

Who are your DeMolay influences and how have they inspired you?

My DeMolay influences would definitely have to be the State Master Councilors that I came up under. It was and is through their leadership that I learned what a leader is and I learned how I should act and lead as a State Officer. 

Meet the Candidates: Jacob Beers for State Master Councilor

Convention is just around the corner, so lets take a few minutes to meet the candidates for Elected State Office. Members will get the chance to elect their officers during the Business Session the Saturday morning of Convention. They were all asked to provide a biography and an answer to the three questions below.

If by some strange circumstance we haven’t met yet, my name is Jake Beers and I am hoping to serve as the 83rd State Master Councilor of Pennsylvania DeMolay. I joined Elizabethtown Chapter on July 10, 2011. In 2014, I became Master Councilor with the goal of revitalizing and re-energizing my Chapter. Since then, I have worked with all of the Master Councilors that have come through my Chapter, serving as Scribe for two-and-a-half years and Treasurer for the last six months. I was appointed State Treasurer in August of 2014 and have since served as State Junior Councilor and Deputy State Master Councilor. As State Junior Councilor, I worked to create new Patton Campus weekends that would excite members and allow Pennsylvania DeMolay to grow in ways not yet seen. As Deputy State Master Councilor, it has been my duty to help the corps in whatever way needed, whether it was in planning events, advising, or anything else. In my time as a DeMolay, I have earned the Representative DeMolay Award, Elizabethtown DeMolay of the Year twice, Scribe’s Efficiency Certificate, and the Degree of Chevalier.

This year, I graduated from Lower Dauphin High School in Hummelstown as a member of the National Honor Society, French National Honor Society, and History Honor Society. I was involved in Lower Dauphin’s music program as first-chair euphonium in Concert Band and Low Brass Section Leader, both in my junior and senior years. In the fall, I will be attending West Chester University seeking a degree in Mathematics with a concentration in Statistics. I am an avid football and NASCAR fan, as well as a sports fan in general. My favorite football team is the Jacksonville Jaguars and my favorite driver is Kevin Harvick. In the future, I would like to work as a Sports Statistician.

What are your goals if elected to serve as an Elected State Officer?

If elected State Master Councilor, I want to achieve three main goals. First, I want to encourage members to take charge of their Chapters and their Order as a whole. In my time as an Elected State Officer, I have seen Pennsylvania DeMolay shift in demographics towards a younger base of members. A fixture of my term will be encouraging these new members to take some leadership role in their Chapters - be it a Councilor role, Committee Chairman, or anything else - and their State. Second, I want to improve Chapter-to-State communication. This year, Chapters will have greater ability for communication with their Elected State Officers and Executive Officer’s Staff than ever before. More information on how this will be achieved will be announced at Convention. Third, I want to spread DeMolay to more people than ever before this year. For PA DeMolay to grow in members, influence, and recognition, we must introduce more people to the Order. Chapters and members alike will be encouraged to visit lodges, other Chapters, other Masonic Youth Organizations, and areas within their communities in the name of spreading DeMolay.

Who are your DeMolay influences and how have they inspired you?

I have always looked at “Dad” Dave Berry as my mentor and inspiration throughout my DeMolay career. So often, he does a large portion of the work for PA DeMolay or is very instrumental in various facets of the Order. Rarely, though, does he receive or ask for credit, putting DeMolay ahead of himself. I also look to the PSMCs throughout my DeMolay career, especially those I have worked with, and take from each of them their best qualities and attempt to emulate those qualities.

What is your greatest DeMolay experience or accomplishment?

My greatest DeMolay accomplishment was receiving the Degree of Chevalier last November. At face value, the Chevalier would obviously be my greatest accomplishment, but my reasoning goes far beyond this. The Chevalier is given to reward those who have worked to better their Chapter, with only their Chapter in mind. I felt so honored to be rewarded by my Chapter, knowing that they appreciated what I had done to aid the Chapter in my time as a DeMolay. I hope that I can continue to be worthy of this honor in my time as State Master Councilor and the years to follow.

Reasons to be at Convention 2017

Convention 2017 is roughly a month and a half away. Are you registered yet? If not then what are you waiting for? If you're looking for more reasons why you should be there, then look no further. Here are the top ten reasons why you should be at the PA DeMolay Convention in Breinigsville, PA. 

10. Members will have the chance to participate in Ritual Competitions, from the Flower Talk to Ceremony of Light. 

9. You'll have the chance to stay at a fancy hotel, the Holiday Inn of Allentown, for the entire weekend. 

8. The hospitality suite will be a nice place to relax with plenty of food and drinks, hosted by the members and Advisors of Allentown Chapter. 

7. You'll get your very own copy of the 2017 PA DeMolay Convention Yearbook, with pictures and memories that remind us of the year's activities and adventures.

6. Friday, there is a optional opportunity to play Laser Tag at Lehigh Valley Laser Tag. The cost is only an additional $17 with registration. 

5. Also on Friday, participants will go to a Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs baseball game (the Triple A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies). There will be a firework presentation, and the first line signer on the most petitions from last Convention to this Convention will throw out the first pitch at the game.  

4. Your chapter will have the chance to receive awards during the business session and luncheon. Awards include Outstanding Chapter, RD of the Year, Visitations, Publications and many more. 

3. You'll get the chance to vote on your Elected State Officers for the 2017-2018 term. This includes the election of the State Sweetheart as well. 

2. After the luncheon on Saturday, participants will enjoy the rest of the night at Dorney Park and Wild Water Kingdom. A traditional picnic dinner will also be provided at the park.

1. Convention gives you the chance to see friends from the entire state of Pennsylvania for a great brotherhood atmosphere. 

Are you convinced yet? Registration is due June 1st, so don't wait too long. Hope to see you in the Lehigh Valley area this summer.

Until next time - "Dad" Joe Pullin