Why We Do This: "Dad" Loughin's Story

Dad Pullin recently asked the lot of us Pa DeMolay folk to share our DeMolay journey.  Here’s mine.

Starting at the age of 4, I had been involved in sports in varying degrees. I started by racing quarter midgets (think go kart with a roll cage attached), which I decided to end when I was 9 after the car was damaged nearly beyond repair. When I was 6, I started playing football, and stopped at 13 due to my size. I started playing baseball when I was 11. Our local little league was no different than other little leagues: each year, the coaches held a draft for the 8-12 teams, named after currently MLB teams, and worked with the kids based on their abilities. Some of us pitched, the rest played the field. I wasn’t a half-bad player of the left side of the field – 3B, SS, RF, and CF, and was selected to a few All Star games. Baseball soon turned into my primary activity, no different than a lot of our youth today.

During the 1997 season, when I was 12, I befriended another player on the team named David Slugocki. After having spent many months having conversations about life and what we liked to do for fun, David finally said “Hey, I’m a member of this organization you might like.” Not knowing anything about the Masons at the time (none of my living relatives were Masons, so I thought), I agreed to check it out. We both let our dads know, and my dad got more information from his. Funny enough, my dad knew a lot about Masonic history, as more than half of the men at my church were Masons.

My first experience with DeMolay was a basketball practice in January for the upcoming basketball tournament in March. I kept thinking how awesome it was that some of the older guys were helping the younger ones with basic skills, and weren’t getting flustered as they were trying. I was instantly sold. I received my Initiatory Degree on 3/12/1998, and my DeMolay Degree 15 days later. I was installed as Chaplain a few weeks later. In 2001, I was elected and installed as State Junior Councilor. But after my term, I felt that I had given what was necessary to DeMolay, and decided to step aside for others to lead. Save for 2 sports tournaments, I “retired” from DeMolay in 2003, 2 and a half years before my majority.

My adult career kicked off in 2008. I felt that I had been away from the youth aspect long enough, and felt that my experience with DeMolay as a youth could help the current youth grow as best as possible. That October, I went to Elizabethtown and became Advisor certified.  As my chapter had sadly been closed, I was forced to choose a different one to serve with. I eventually settled on Reading, as several of the Council members at the time influenced my youth when I was an active member. Each year that I renew my Advisorship, I remember the 2 reasons why I keep doing this: youth will always need guidance, and I want to continue to work with the life-long friends that I’ve made throughout my career.

Just like Dad Pullin, I’m going to encourage you all to share your story. Advisor or Youth, I’d love to hear it. If you don’t feel like typing it out, find me one weekend at Patton and tell me. You never know who you’ll inspire with your story.

DeMolay Week: The Best Week of My Life

This blog post is from Brother James McKeown, PMC of Friendship-Bray Chapter and Region H Representative for Pennsylvania DeMolay. 

My greatest experience in DeMolay was KeyMan 2016. This was my second time at KeyMan and one of the best weeks of my life. This week was not only one of the best weeks of my life, but it also changed my life.

During the summer of 2016, I was going through some changes in my life. I just graduated from grade school and I was preparing to enter high school. I was super hyped that whole summer to finally leave my school and experience a change for once. During that summer, I was also Master Councilor of my Chapter. Leading up to KeyMan, I was going through a midterm crisis. My term as Master Councilor really wasn’t going the way I wanted it to, and because of this I was losing interest in DeMolay. I felt like taking a break from DeMolay once my term as Master Councilor was over. I didn’t really feel like going to KeyMan at the time. I just wanted to hang out with my friends and not be bothered by DeMolay, but I already signed up, so I had to go.

I got to KeyMan and I was still not excited about being there. I was put in the Ritual Track. I already met half the guys in my group because of the Patton weekends, but the other half were all from Canada. The week started out a little slow. I was enjoying the courses and what I was learning, but I wasn’t having a lot of fun. It started to pick up around Tuesday. I started to get to know the people in my group during the activities we participated in, the times we were eating, and the times we were supposed to be sleeping. I was bonding with these people who I just met or only met a few times. I went to KeyMan the previous year, but I didn’t really bond with the guys in my group. We started to work together as a team. I’ve been on a lot of teams before, but not a team that was this close together. Everything we did together was fun. We had to perform the Opening and Closing of a Chapter and The Ceremony of Light for the end of the week project. I’ve been on tons of ritual teams over my DeMolay career, but not a team that worked so smoothly and so in sync. It kinda felt like we could read each other's mind while performing. People say that ritual makes us unique, but it can also bring us together and help us grow. The week came to a close and I made sure to keep in contact with everyone.

The week might not have been the best and most fun week ever, but it honestly changed me. It made me care about DeMolay again and motivated me to finish my term as Master Councilor with a full head of steam. Without this week, I'm probably not the person I am today.

KMU Course Selection: Events and Program Planning

The following is a blog post highlighting a specific department that will be offered at KeyMan University this summer. Today's post is written by "Dad" P.J. Shuey, who will be of the Department Chairman for the Events and Program Planning Department. 

So you’ve decided that you are going to attend the PA DeMolay Keyman Conference this year, but you need to decide which department to spend the week with. You might wonder what a week with the Events and Program Planning department might look like. Well I’m here to tell you that it is packed with learning, experience, and fun.

By the end of the first day you will have learned everything you need to know about planning a first class event.  On day two you will be putting those new skills into practice. Throughout the week, the Events and Program Planning department is responsible for organizing a number of activities and events for other campers. For example, we will be organizing Jacques Heroes which is a morning exercise activity for anyone who would like to come. We also have the opportunity to plan events during free time. You will have total control over what these activities would be and how to carry them out, and the staff from the department will help you with anything you will need. 

One of my favorite things that the Events and Program Planning department gets to do is plan the end of the week event. This event is usually a charitable activity or presentation. The EPP department is responsible for planning, promoting, and executing this event for the whole conference. It is an authentic experience for working in your chapter and planning an important event. It is one of the most rewarding projects at Keyman. If you spend the week with Events and Program Planning, you will go home with confidence and actual experience in planning exceptional events. 

To sign up for KeyMan University, visit the website at keyman.pademolay.org. 

KMU Course Selection: DeMolay Education

The following is a blog post highlighting a specific department that will be offered at KeyMan University this summer. Today's post is written by "Dad" Tom Moyer, who will be of the Department Chairman for the DeMolay Education Department. 

Are you just beginning your journey within this amazing youth organization? 

In the DeMolay Education department at Key Man University, you will have an opportunity to learn about DeMolay as you haven’t been able to before. You, along with fellow newer members, will focus on honing your DeMolay skills and knowledge, as well as preparing you to grow both as a DeMolay and as a citizen of your country. You'll learn the ins and outs of the organizations, including honors and awards, the offices and their responsibilities, and the overall operations of how the organization works.

When I first joined DeMolay, I struggled with public speaking, memorization, and being able to organize my thoughts into actions. With the help of my Advisors and my family, I was able to overcome these challenges and give back to DeMolay by being a Jurisdictional Officer, and eventually, State Master Councilor. I now continue to serve this order and look forward to giving back to those who helped me by helping mold the future DeMolay leaders. Maybe you don’t consider yourself to be a leader, but by the time your through with this department at KMU, you will. 

DeMolay is different from other organizations in that we regularly change over leadership with most chapters using 6 month terms for their Master Councilors. While you may not currently be thinking about becoming a master councilor, the opportunity may present itself throughout your DeMolay career. I’ve attended over ten different Key Man conferences since 2005 aside from meeting hundreds of brothers, I’ve met some high quality friends who have helped me grow both in DeMolay and in my private life, and you will too.

    

Why not start your DeMolay career off with a week that is packed full of fun, comradery, and growth?  Sign up for DeMolay Education today!

To sign up for KeyMan University, visit the website at keyman.pademolay.org.

KMU Course Selection: Brotherhood and Membership

The following is a blog post highlighting a specific department that will be offered at KeyMan University this summer. Today's post is written by "Mom" Kelley Otto of Carlisle Chapter and "Dad" Peter Brusoe of our Nationals Capital, who will be two of the Advisors leading the Brotherhood and Membership Department. 

BaM! What does the Brotherhood and Membership (BaM) Department do at Keyman? We are building new DeMolay communities, promoting brotherhood, and enhancing our membership! 

How do you build a DeMolay Chapter? The foundation starts with is yourself.  We need to give you the skills to be a better brother and share the comradeship we experience in DeMolay. BaM looks at what we can do to improve ourselves as Brothers, using trust building exercises, problem based learning, and interactive activities. We also share with you some of the rich history of our order focusing on tradition and sharing the stories about famous DeMolays and brothers.

To the foundation, you add walls and rooms, which are other members in our Chapter. We look at how to promote brotherhood in our chapter. We provide strategies and ideas to ensure that all members, regardless of age or interest, are engaged with the chapter. Presentations and group projects help us to develop these skills. DeMolay awards and honors will also be reviewed. 

Now we have the foundation and walls, what about the roof? Yes, your Advisors, who always have you covered. We will work on how to talk to adult and work with them to plan prospect parties and other events. The department Advisors will help you put everything together that we discuss for the week so you can take the new ideas back to your Chapters.

But that is only one home, what about a community? Promoting our organization in the community is a key to growing our Chapter. We discuss different community events and presentations to help build our ties. Masonic organizations will be presented in a new way. Elevator speeches will be developed in our classes.

Come join us to learn how to build your DeMolaly community. BaM looks forward to working with you in August!

To sign up for KeyMan University, visit the website at keyman.pademolay.org.

KMU Course Selection: Interpersonal Development

The following is a blog post highlighting a specific department that will be offered at KeyMan University this summer. Today's post is written by PA DeMolay's Director of the Sweetheart Program, "Mom" Angela Lennox, who will be the Department Chairman for the Interpersonal Development Department.

WARNING: After completion of this course you will be DANGEROUSLY prepared to make DeMolay EXPLODE in your local jurisdiction. Please proceed with EXTREME CAUTION!

You walk into a Chapter room, and you see a handful of members from the local Lodge. How do you approach them? How do you show that you know how to present yourself, and can socialize with them, just as you socialize with your Brothers around you? How do you switch from that role to the role of friend, acquaintance, or leader? Interpersonal skills are present every single day, in every interaction you have with anyone. Memorizing words can be easy. Everyone can learn quickly how to write an agenda. Approaching someone, making eye contact, and keeping a conversation with others may not be as easy. Humans are social creatures that actively seek out interactions with others. Developing and refining the social skills we use each day is extremely important and will make a difference in your experiences in school, at home, and in DeMolay.

The Interpersonal Development Department is going into it’s second year as a department at KeyMan, and is designed to evaluate, teach, and strengthen the skills it takes to effectively work with other people. The skills that we focus on include interpersonal skills, goal setting, and leadership techniques. Before we can work effectively as a team, we must understand and polish ourselves. We will explore topics such as assertiveness, decision making, and other skills in the beginning of the week, with a focus on learning about how we think and act as individuals.

Throughout the week we will take these individual skills and discover how to apply them into social skills and use our personal strengths and weaknesses to benefit our local chapters and jurisdictions. These valuable skills are not only applicable to DeMolay, but also at school, home and everyday life.  We have designed your learning experience based around “real-world” scenarios that will provide you the opportunity to analyze, practice, and improve your skills. We will rely heavily on individual and group participation, but the only requirement is that you take what you learned throughout the week and apply it to your interactions and experiences with others in DeMolay and your personal life.

Our goal is not to strictly talk “at” you. We are not looking to lecture and drill skills into your brains. Instead, each day you will participate in various individual and group activities, with a ton of opportunities to openly talk, discuss, and debate with the Advisors and other members of the department. Each activity is designed to assist you with personally developing the social skills you already use and will continue to use daily.

Whether you consider yourself a “social butterfly” or you feel more comfortable sitting by yourself at a party, Interpersonal Development is the right fit for you! Come to develop your skills, and leave knowing you have improved yourself as a person. We look forward to seeing you in August! 

To sign up for KeyMan University, visit the website at keyman.pademolay.org.

KMU Course Selection: Ritual and Performance

The following is a blog post highlighting a specific department that will be offered at KeyMan University this summer. Today's post is written by PA DeMolay Executive Officer, "Dad" Gregory Schaeffer, who will be the Department Chairman for the Ritual and Performance Department. 

The Ritual and Performance Department wants YOU to join us at KeyMan University!  On staff are 3 Senior DeMolays, who are all veterans of DeMolay Ritual, and will guide you through a week-long journey of learning, teamwork, and brotherhood.

Are you a new DeMolay who doesn't have much ritual experience?  No problem!  We start off by covering the basics of DeMolay ritual and public speaking.  We'll help you find the most effective way to memorize speeches (each person is different); we'll show you how to navigate the floor work and understand how a Chapter room should be set up.  We'll help you learn your Obligations.  And you'll get to work in a fun environment with other DeMolays, working together to learn and perform new ceremonies.

Are you a DeMolay who is nervous about public speaking?  We were too... we will give you individual attention throughout the week, to understand your strengths and weaknesses, and help you exit KeyMan as a more confident speaker.  This will help you not only in DeMolay, but at school, and for your future career!  You'll also get to work with Jurisdictional Officers throughout the week who will be like older Brothers, helping you 1-on-1.

Are you a DeMolay who is an experienced ritualist, and is looking for more knowledge?  We'll help you learn how to coach DeMolays in your home Chapter, to improve the quality of their ritual.  We'll teach you about ritual competitions, and how to maximize your scores.  You'll get to see the original 1st Edition of the DeMolay Ritual, read through some of those passages that the DeMolays had in 1919, and participate and discussions and debates about the history of the ritual, and what its role is in a modern DeMolay setting.

No matter your current skill level, we can promise a fun week, where you will come away excited about the ritual, and a more experienced public speaker.  We look forward to seeing you at KeyMan 2017!

To sign up for KeyMan University, visit the website at keyman.pademolay.org.

KeyMan University

For the 32nd year, Pennsylvania DeMolay will host the annual KeyMan Conference, known for the last 4 years as KeyMan University. The week long DeMolay experience will take place at the Masonic Conference Center - Patton Campus in Elizabethtown, PA on August 6th to 12th, 2017. Members and sweethearts are encouraged to join us for what is known throughout DeMolay International as a premier DeMolay leadership program. So why should you attend? Here are several reasons why you will want to be in Elizabethtown in August.

10. The Directors of KMU, "Dad" Dan Loughin and "Dad" Matt Blaisdell, have put together a stellar staff roster to help teach members and sweethearts everything they need to know during the week.

9. Participants will enjoy a week long stay at Patton Campus. For those who have never been to the campus, the facility consists of several meeting size rooms, dorm room style accommodations, a state of the art Multimedia Center, a cafeteria, and plenty of outdoor space to play all kinds of games and sports.  

8. Patton Campus has a half Olympic size pool that participants will have opportunities to enjoy. Assigned time frames for the pool will be reflected on the schedule.  

7. For the sports fanatics, there will be assigned time to let off some steam, with sports such as dodgeball, flag football, kickball, volleyball and basketball. Not a fan of sports? Not to worry, there are plenty of other things to do on campus, including a closet full of board games and a few chess tables in the atrium. 

6. One of the things that makes KMU special is the emphasis on service through our various service projects that will be built into the week. More details on this will come in a later post. 

5. Each participant will be placed into a department, which will be the emphasis for their learning experience through the week. New members will be placed in the DeMolay Education department. Other departments include Ritual and Performance, Chapter Leadership and Operations, Communications and Media, Events and Program Planning, Brotherhood and Membership, and Interpersonal Development.

4. There will be opportunities to work on LCC's throughout the week. Participants can also start working on their Representative DeMolay Award. 

3. FOOD!  

2. Participants will get to meet other members and sweethearts from their Jurisdiction as well as others. KMU is a DeMolay International known program, with participants traveling from Virginia, Maryland, New York, Canada and others to participate in our program. 

1. The week long fun that will be had at KMU will surely provide stories and memories that can be shared for years to come. It will also provide lessons that can, and should, be taken back to your home chapter.   

I hope this motivates members and sweethearts to join us for what is guaranteed to be a great DeMolay experience. Registration is open now, so go to keyman.pademolay.org to register now.

Until next time - "Dad" Joe Pullin

KMU Update: Have You Met Mitch!

Hello Brethren,

My name is Mitchell Holmes and I am from the best chapter in Pennsylvania (lol), Templar Chapter. If you haven’t heard already, I am the next Key Man University Youth Director for the 2017 Conference! I am very excited to work with all the applicants and staff for next year’s Conference!

I am 15 years old and in 10th Grade. In my chapter, I am currently the Master Councilor. In DeMolay, I have been awarded with the Lamp of Knowledge, Representative DeMolay, and I applied for my PMC-MSA Award.

This year at Key Man, I am excited to say that we will have our very first talent show, in which applicants have the option to show fellow friends their unique talents. Along with this, we will be having our second annual class competitions. Each class can compete for a prize that will be given at the end of the week. In addition, we will be having sweetheart competitions to the class competitions.

Key Man will be a fun week! I encourage all of you to come to this fantastic fun week! Should you have any questions or concerns about the Key Man experience, please do not hesitate to contact me or the Key Man Staff. Keep an eye out for applications, as they will be coming out soon!

I look forward in seeing you at KMU!

Ancora Imparo!

Bro. Mitch Holmes

Key Man Youth Director 2017

Brotherhood at it's Finest

"Brotherhood is the very price and condition of man's survival."

Carlos P. Romulo

DeMolay International is recognizing today's date, November 17th as Brotherhood Day. What does brotherhood mean to you?

The term brotherhood refers to a bond that cannot be easily broken. It means having a friendship that will last the length of time. In DeMolay, brotherhood is one of the sole purposes of the organization. We build friendships with people we otherwise may never have gotten to know. We as DeMolay's are expected to work together, have each others back, and support each other. 

To me, brotherhood is a group of people that will always be by your side. Because of DeMolay, I have close friends who I consider my brothers all over the world. I've had brothers from my home chapter who have helped me solve several problems as a team. I've had friends from across the state, including Harrisburg, Pittsburgh and Erie. I've even had the privilege of meeting friends from all over the world. I've worked with DeMolay members from New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, Texas, Tennessee, Utah and Canada. Brotherhood and DeMolay go hand in hand. 

Take advantage of that bond. A lot of the members that attend KeyMan University had the chance to meet DeMolay members from jurisdictions other that Pennsylvania. Get to know them and stay in touch. You may find a bond worth keeping. Continue the brotherhood that has made DeMolay great for nearly 100 years. 

Until next time - "Dad" Joe Pullin

Happy Brotherhood Day

#IAMDEMOLAY

    

Apply to become KMU Youth Director!

Hello, readers! Today is the day that we start accepting applications for Youth Director for KeyMan University for the 2017 academic year.

KeyMan University will be August 6 through August 12, 2017, at Patton Campus in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania. We're looking for someone who can fit the job requisition, which can be found here. The responsibilities of the Youth Director can be found here.

After you've read both of those files, and you feel like you're the candidate we're looking for, apply at keyman.pademolay.org/youth-director-application and we'll review your application. But act quickly; we're only accepting applications until November 15, 2016!

Application Process

So how do you apply to be Youth Director? Follow these steps!

1. Submit your application online by going to this link: keyman.pademolay.org/youth-director-application
2. We will contact you within a week of your application to let you know if your application is accepted and to set a time for the interview.
3. We will present you with a small project to prepare. This is completely open ended and shouldn't take long to complete. We'll ask you to present this during the interview.
4. The interview will be conducted via Skype. This interview will be carried out in the manner of a real job interview. We're not asking you to dress in a suit, but you will need to be presentable.
5. We are planning to make our final selection by Grand Master's Class in December and will contact each of our applicants to let them know of our decision.

That’s it! Fill out your application and get it to us as soon as possible. We look forward to reading it!

Dan Loughin

2017 KMU Director

Getting to know the KMU16 Jurisdictional Officers

At Key Man University, members from the Communications and Media Department hosted the KMU blog. Here is one of the articles that they posted in case you missed it. 

In my latest KeyMan University blog, I’ve decided to uncover a little more about our Jurisdictional Officers. I achieved this by questioning a majority of them regarding their favorite superheros, and the reasons that went into their choosing.

Joseph Bell, Brian Martin, and Cole Benfer:

Joseph, Brian, and Cole all selected Batman as their favorite superhero. Joseph’s reason was that Batman was the first superhero he read about, and it has stuck with him to the present day. Brian had chosen Batman because he is just a mortal man that had mastered martial arts, and though he is mortal he risks his life to defeat evil. Cole’s own reasons were that Batman, out of his own volition decides to serve justice and bring discipline to criminals.

Jacob Beers and Andrew Santilli:

Both Andrew and Jacob agreed in that their favorite superhero was Iron Man. Andrew’s reason being Iron Man has expertise with technology and Andrew himself shows an interest in technology. Jacob’s own reasoning was that Iron Man makes use of his vast fortune in an attempt to help others.

Garret Corso:

Garrett’s favorite superhero is Tinkerbell. Garret’s reasoning was that Tinkerbell has wings and though small she rises above expectations of her, which is one of the requisites of being a member of DeMolay.

Cade DeLisle:

Cade’s favorite superhero is Captain America and his reasons are that Captain America is patriotic, caring, compassionate, and strong.

Eric Dye and Samuel Levin:

Eric’s and Samuel’s chose Daredevil as their favorite superhero. Samuel’s reasoning is that even though Daredevil is a flawed person he is still capable of making the world a better place. Eric’s reason is that Daredevil is a very good listener, which makes for exceptional crime fighting capabilities.

Matthew Flaherty:

Matthew’s favorite superhero is Antman. Matthew’s reason for this is that Antman can shrink down and observe people living their life.

Gabriel Jones-Gallardo:

Gabriel’s favorite superhero is Nightwing; His reason for this is Nightwing used to admire Batman and wanted to be like him, however, he has since then changed his views, but still decided to emulate the Dark Knight. Gabriel is much like Nightwing himself, he used to admire someone and wanted to be just like him, later however, he decided he wanted to be his own man.

Sean Reitze:

Sean’s favorite superhero is Thor. Sean’s reason for choosing Thor is that he has a “cool hammer.”

Alejandro Rodriguez:

Alejandro’s favorite superhero is Storm. Alejandro’s reason is Storm is very passionate about her teammates.

David Ticknor:

David’s favorite superhero is Superman. David’s reason for this is that Superman can fly.

Raymond Wright:

Raymond’s favorite superhero is Green Lantern. Raymond’s reason is that Green Lantern’s powers grant him the capability to do anything he puts his mind to as long as his will remains strong.

Among us KeyMen, the Jurisdictional Officers are looked upon as idols and by extension superheroes, and its nice to have a better understanding of some of the thoughts that go into their own personal tastes. This is especially true in regards to understanding their own favorite superheroes, with reasons that might echo our own reasons for thinking of them in the same light.

~David L., Editor-n-chief for the 2016 Communications & Media department.

All above images and the characters depicted in them are registered trademarks of their respective brands; DC Comics, Marvel Comics, and Disney Studios. 

Presidential Debate at Patton Campus!

The following blog post was written by the members of the Communications and Media Department at Key Man University. Here are their thoughts. 

On Thursday night at 7:00 PM in the multimedia room, several members of the KMU16 staff will be holding a mock presidential debate. “Dad” Peter Brusoe from the Brotherhood and Membership department will be personifying former Secretary of State and Democratic Presidential nominee Hillary Clinton. “Dad” Dennis Hunter of the DeMolay Education department will be portraying Republican candidate and businessman, Donald Trump. Lastly, “Dad” Dan Loughin will be representing the Libertarian Party candidate and former governor of New Mexico, Gary Johnson. This debate will hopefully show examples of how a proper debate should be handled; with an emphasis on facts and the discussion of important issues, rather than going on with insults and bickering. Though from an entertainment stand point, I do hope its not too overly factual and that we can enjoy some good natured jabs. Regardless of their political affiliation, I wish the best of luck to each candidate.

I do wonder however if “Dad” Brusoe will take his role a little too seriously, and clear his browser history prior to the start of the event.

~Noah B., Senior Editor of the 2016 KMU Communications & Media Department.

UPDATE: Due to unpopular(Brusoe) opinion, we’ve been inclined to mention that Green Party Presidential nominee, Dr. Jill Stein, will be represented by “Bro” Eric Baker in the debate as well.

UPDATE: We’ve been informed that the debate will be taking place at 7:00 PM Thursday evening, rather than the originally posted 9:00 PM. We hope that you can adjust your schedules accordingly, and still join us for this event.

To see more blog posts from the members of KMU check out the KMU website at https://keyman.pademolay.org/blog/

2016 KMU Movie Preview, Suicide Squad

Suicide Squad, a can’t miss action thriller.

On Friday August 5, 2016; Suicide Squad will be coming out in theaters across the nation. This film focuses on some of the man villains of DC Comics universe, rather than their hero counterparts. This alone is drawing the interest of many people, myself included. In Suicide Squad villains Harley Quinn and Joker are recruited by the government, and sent to destroy said government’s enemies. Another villain, Deadshot, who specializes with firearms, is the one that I am particularly looking forward to seeing, because according to his backstory he never misses a shot. I for one am fascinated by the concept of Suicide Squad and am incredibly excited to see it, because as I said it will focus on the villains, and I think  that this factor along will make the movie enticing to all that love DC Comics, and even those who don’t.

~David L., Editor-n-chief of the 2016 KMU Communications & Media Department.

Suicide Squad(2016), is a film production by DC Entertainment, and is distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. All rights and trademarks are reserved by Warner Bros. Pictures.

2016 KMU Youth Director Announcement

The directors of Key Man University are proud to announce that the 2016 Youth Director has been appointed. After the interview process was complete, Tyler Moyer, Past Master Councilor of Pilgrim Chapter, was selected to serve as Youth Director for this year's conference. Here is a message from Tyler himself.

Greetings Brethren and Friends,

I am Tyler Moyer and this year I have the privilege of serving as KeyMan University's 2016 Youth Director. This year, I’m working to bring several exciting new things to the program, which of course I can't disclose right now. I will be working alongside the Directors and doing everything possible to make this week a memorable experience for everyone.

I joined DeMolay five years ago, actually at a KeyMan Conference. Since then, I've attended each KeyMan, and each time I've had a better experience; making new friends, expanding on my knowledge and much more. Also during those five years, I've served as my chapter's Master Councilor three times, for which I received the Past Master Councilor’s Meritorious Service Award. Along the way I also earned my Representative DeMolay Award and Founder's Membership Award. 

Over the next few months, I’ll post more information about the program. I want to see all of you in Pennsylvania at Key Man this August. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask; you can email me, or Facebook message me and I'll be sure to get a response back to you as soon as possible! 

Ancora Imparo, brothers!

Key Man University will be held at Patton Campus from July 31 to August 6, 2016. We look forward to seeing as many of your members attend the conference.

So You Want to Be the Key Man Youth Director

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!

1. 
   Submit your application by filling out [this form].
2. If you’re selected, we’ll notify you within one week of the application deadline.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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!