Tips for Members & Advisors: Make Time for Family

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.

 

Suit Up - but in what color?

Today's post comes from "Dad" Dan Loughin, Assistant Director of the KeyMan Conference. His post is in response to my post of last Thursday. Enjoy! ~ "Dad" Seth Anthony

In a recent blog post, “Dad” Anthony had mentioned that “most men only own one suit – a black one.”  At first, I simply chuckled.  The reason is that not only do I own more than one suit, since I have to wear one every day for work, not one of them is black.  I must not be like most men (and, honestly, if any of you have had the pleasure of meeting me, you’d agree wholeheartedly).

This also got me on this train of thought: why?  Why is it that men will stick with a black suit?  There are a few possibilities, but nothing stands out more than this answer: comfort and safety.  Most men stick with black because that’s what they are used to, and that’s what they believe most other men will do, so they stick with black because they know it’s safe.  I’m here to change your minds with two words: go Navy (and, no, I’m not talking about the college football team).

To understand why I’m suggesting Navy, you need to know what the colors actually mean.  Black is traditionally associated with power, elegance, formality, death, evil, and mystery.  With black, if everyone is wearing it, you lose the power, negated by everyone wearing it.  Tuxedos are black because of the elegance and formality, but we’re talking about a normal suit here.  There’s also a reason why people wear black at funerals.  And with the psychological effect of black, why would you want to portray death, evil, and mystery to those outside of DeMolay?  Blue, which is where Navy falls, on the other hand, is traditionally associated with trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven.  I can attest to this fact.  After I started wearing a Navy suit to work (I’m work in sales), I started producing at a higher rate for the simple fact that people trusted what I was saying.  I don’t sell anything that people don’t want or need, but I still have to convince them as to WHY it’s a good idea to purchase.  And blue goes a long way in building that initial trust. (Disclaimer, however: just because blue builds the initial trust, you can easily ruin it with your words and actions, so please be mindful about how you speak and act.)

Another reason I’m suggesting Navy is for coordination and matching.  Black is far more inflexible than Navy.  Navy is also a softer color than black.  Let me put it this way: “Dad” Anthony mentioned that black suits only work with black shoes.  Navy, on the other hand, can handle both brown and black.  And while you’re limited in the same fashion with shirt color, striped shirts look better with a Navy suit (in fact, I only wear striped shirts with my Navy suit, and no other).  Also, because of the strength of black, you have to be careful what color tie you wear with your black suit, because you could send the wrong message unintentionally.  And the Navy and yellow DeMolay bow tie that is so popular now isn’t as over the top with a navy suit.

Finally, and possibly most important, is that you stand out.  Remember the comments that most men buy a black suit?  If you don’t wear one, you immediately stand out.  Now, while you’re young, you may be shy and want to stick to the background.  Which is fine, but when you become an adult, you’re going to want to stick out in some fashion to get what you want.  Want to get the job?  You’ll be thought of the guy that didn’t wear black, and being thought of AT ALL in the interview process is positive.  Want to impress your crush?  Navy.  You’ll stand out and catch their eye.  Even better, when you’re on your date, no one will confuse you with the wait staff at dinner.

Wrapping up here, I’ll just leave you with some pearls of wisdom.  No matter what anyone says, a suit does not make the man.  A suit is not a costume to make you appear more of a gentleman; you need to act as such all the time.  Same stuff written above applies to charcoal.  Don’t eat yellow snow (I’m just seeing if you’re paying attention).  Only wear your suit when appropriate (i.e.: don’t wear it to the gym). 

Until next time, stay classy! ~ "Dad" Loughin

P.S. - If you are ASKED to wear a black suit by the host or director of an event, you better make sure you wear black.

Hi, Dad!

Today's post comes from"Dad" Dan Kane, of Erie Chapter, who volunteered to write this piece in honor of our recently observed Obligatory Day, "Dad" Frank S. Land Day. Enjoy!

You don’t have to be involved with DeMolay for very long before you learn about a man named Frank S. Land or “Dad Land” for short.  Dad Land is known as the founder of the Order of DeMolay, a Masonic youth group for boys ages 12 to 21,  the story of which is shared with many through Herbert Ewing Duncan’s book titled, Hi Dad!  The root of the story is grounded in the relationship that Dad Land had with a young fatherless boy named Louis Lower. 

Dad Land, having no children of his own, developed a friendship with Louis and served as a mentor to him.  Dad Land recognized that there were many young men who would also benefit from this type of mentorship from a father figure and discussed the idea with Louis and some of his friends.  This event is known as the birth of DeMolay.

To this day, all advisors are addressed as either “Dad ____” or “Mom ____.”  I must admit that having boys address me as Dad was awkward at first as I have no children of my own, but it was something that I grew accustomed to hearing within the confines of the club or Chapter Room.
A couple of weeks ago, I entered a fast food restaurant and was immediately greeted by the boy behind the counter taking orders with “Hi Dad Kane!”  I was taken back by hearing this greeting outside the walls of the Chapter Room and with others close by who did not know of the customs of DeMolay.  Then, instead of hearing “number 46, your order is ready,” I heard, “Dad Kane, your order is ready.”  I laughed to myself as I retrieved my order wondering what questions were going through the minds of the others in the restaurant.

As I sat and enjoyed my meal, a sense of humility and honor came over me - humility in that did I live up to the example set by Dad Land? Then, honor, by being recognized by a DeMolay as being worthy to be called “Dad!”

A Tribute to a Fallen Advisor

"Dad" Matt Wills

Today's post comes from "Dad" Matt Wills, Chapter Advisor of Crusade Chapter in Scranton, PA. Earlier this week, we posted a write up regarding the memorial tree that was planted in memory of "Dad" Garfield Beynon, who was an Advisor for Crusade Chapter for several decades. During that dedication, "Dad" Wills offered the following eulogy, in memory of "Dad" Beynon:

"Dad" Beynon never missed a beat,;always getting in on the action, whether it being the mediator to a disagreement of the Advisors and members or wanting to join in on the action in order for him to get his two cents in - no matter what.

It didn’t matter what he was asked of or for, he was always willing, no matter how far out of reach it seemed to be.  He never turned a person, a member, or a brother away - always lending that helping hand, and giving everyone he came in contact with the satisfaction and comfort of always knowing he was there if you needed him. 

So many people would remember his uncanny ability of always being able to tell someone where they could go could go and how to get there, in just a few words, and if you were unsure he would probably map it out for you. His DeMolay boys were "Dad" Beynon’s family, life, passion, and one of life’s prized possessions. When it came to DeMolay it seemed as nothing else mattered.

"Dad" Garfield Beynon

He was so very well known in PA DeMolay, having received so many honors and distinctions; but one sticks out as the most re-lived memory; so much so that no matter how many times we would tell the story, he would always get that deep down laugh and he would have tears in his eyes.  It was the 2000 PA DeMolay Convention, in Camp Hill.  "Dad" Labagh spent quite a few minutes speaking of the many attributes, and qualities "Dad" Beynon had given to DeMolay in his 31 years as an advisor.  After "Dad" Labagh finished speaking about the person who was nominated for the 2000 Advisor of the Year and recipient of Guild of the Leather Apron, he requested that they come to the podium.  Unbeknownst to Dad Labagh, "Dad" Beynon was fast asleep at the banquet table and snoring. Having been getting yelled at to get his attention, we were able to wake him up. He was a bit confused as to why were we yelling at him and all these people were standing looking at us and clapping, as "Dad" Dubeck was yelling Tom wants you at the podium.  Once he arrived at the podium, he was bewildered as to what he did or why he was standing at a podium with it only being him and "Dad" Labagh, as 200 members, and advisors were standing and applauding him. The table that the members and advisors sat at for that dinner and every other dinner was always the furthest one from the podium, unfortunately in this cases he found himself taking the longest walk and not knowing where he was going or why.

"Dad" Beynon will always be remembered for being able to catch himself a quick power nap. He always as he sat down the off switch would kick in.  So, I say to my friend, and to my Brother, "...and until we meet again," in your own frequently quoted wording “we’ll catch ya”.   

Ten Films Every DeMolay Should See

Today's post comes from "Dad" Peter Brusoe, Past International Master Councilor, and all around chipper guy. Enjoy!

Leaving KeyMan University 2014 “Dad” Zack Panitzke (Clap, clap, clap, clap) and I joked around about the idea of having a film minor, or during free time screening a movie that is culturally significant, but perhaps not known by DeMolays.   Indeed, in the car ride back there were films I had seen that “Dad” Panitzke had not, and vice-versa. 

The film minor is probably not happening, but there are a bunch of films out there that DeMolays should see because they are fun,  instructive and span the generations.  The films are not in any particular order, and there are other films that should be on this list.  Do you have films you want to add? Email me at PWBrusoe@gmail.com with your list and your reasons.

#10:
The Goonies:  This was a basic staple of any child growing up in the 1980s.  Written by Christopher Columbus (Home Alone, Harry Potter, Mrs. Doubtfire) this film involves a group of kids who go on the search for pirate treasure.  It’s not an epic film, but it’s one that is good for jokes, humor, and a sense of connection that people feel undertaking a journey.  Active DeMolays may recognize Sean Astin of Samwise Gamgee fame. 
DeMolay Lesson:  The quest is best with friends and brothers.
 http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0089218/

#9:
Chariots of Fire:  You’ve probably heard the sound track to this, and perhaps even seen it parodied in slow motion.  This film, based on real events, follows the training schedule of Eric Liddell and Harold Abrahams as they prepare and train for the 1924 Olympics in Paris.  They came from different backgrounds but had the same passion and overcame odds in their training regime. Active DeMolays may recognize Ian Holm of Bilbo Baggins Fame.
DeMolay Lesson:  Keep to your personal convictions,
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082158/

#8:
To Kill a Mockingbird:  Gregory Peck is one of the most talented actors ever. This film adaption of Harper Lee’s Classic novel is an amazing story in personal convictions.  Though you’ve probably read the story and have studied the book in school, Peck’s performance is masterful.
DeMolay lesson:  Be the voice for those without a voice.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0056592

#7: 
Mr. Smith Goes To Washington:  Seven years before the making of “It’s a Wonderful Life”  Frank Capra teams up with Jimmy Stewart for this amazing film.  This film follows Jefferson Smith as he’s appointed to serve in the United States Senate.  As soon as he gets there he faces a tremendous amount of pressure from the old guard, but he stands up and does what’s right for the people back home and becomes beloved.
DeMolay Lesson:  In the face of pessimism, optimism can win out!
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0031679/?ref_=nv_sr_1

#6:
The Emperorer’s Club: This film received mixed reviews. But I liked it.  In some ways it’s an updated version of Mr. Chipps, but there is a good moral lesson in the end.  Kevin Kine gives another masterful performance. 
DeMolay Lesson: Don’t be Shutruk Nahunte.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0283530/

#5:
Tora! Tora! Tora:  This film was not a critical success and it has no major stars except Jason Robards.  This film tells the story leading up to the attack on Pearl Harbor.  It is historical, it is well researched, and it has been credited as being one of the major sources of information most Americans have about Pearl Harbor.
DeMolay Lesson:  Love of Country
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0066473/?ref_=tt_rec_tti

#4:
Midway:  This film should be watched AFTER Tora! Tora! Tora! It recounts the success of the American Navy at the Battle of Midway.  It features an amazing set of actors including Charlton Heston, Henry Fonda, James Coburn, Hal Holbrook, Robert Mitchum, and Robert Wagner. If these names are not familiar with you, they should be they were among the best of our parents’ generation.
DeMolay Lesson:  After getting knocked down, we can get back up again.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0074899/?ref_=nv_sr_1

#3:

Rocky:  This is a film that everyone seems to know, and they can quote “Yo Adrian” and maybe can sing a few bars of “Gonna Fly Now” but when you ask them who Cuff and Link are they gave you a blank stare.   It’s a good movie, and a piece of Americana.  In each of us there is a Rocky that we need to find and tap.
DeMolay Lesson:  Believe in yourself.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0075148/?ref_=nv_sr_1


#2:

Remember the Titans:  This film plays a bit loose with facts and real life events.  But it does capture a moment in time when things like race separated us.  I first saw this film at a DeMolay Leadership Conference because it rained and we couldn’t play sports.   Denzel Washington gives a masterful performance.  Neat fact: The Real TC Williams High School is about a mile or so from the Scottish Rite Building in Alexandria, VA where MATOC was a few years ago.
DeMolay Lesson:  Brotherhood.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0210945/


#1:  

A Man for All Seasons:  This film features an amazing performance by Paul Scofield and won six academy awards.  The story tells the falling out between Sir Thomas More and King Henry VIII of England.  More most choose between his personal beliefs and going along with in-crowd. 
Power house quote:  “I think that when statesmen forsake their own private conscience for the sake of their public duties, they lead their country by a short route to chaos.”
DeMolay Lesson:  Personal integrity is worth more than temporal power.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0060665

"The places you will go are going to be amazing, but please bring the Lorax with you!"

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.

Membership Recruitment - It's no mystery!

Many of you know that I'm always scanning the internet for great resources or ideas to bring to Pennsylvania DeMolay. Recently, on one of these searches, I came across a fantastic video produced by the State Master Councilor of Indiana DeMolay.

Bro. Sunny Atwal was on vacation, visiting family abroad, during an important workshop weekend for Indiana DeMolay. Rather than just not be there, Sunny produced a short video on his tips for membership recruitment for DeMolays. The information in the video is really presented well and I think every DeMolay (and Mason) could benefit from understanding the principles that Sunny lays out. So, on with the video!

 

Note: Sunny talks about some Indiana DeMolay programs in his video (such as how they administer the PMC-MSA) This varies in Pennsylvania, so be aware.

Did you learn something from Sunny? If so, leave a comment and let us know.

Frat! ~ "Dad" Seth Anthony

Quality Remarks from a Master Councilor

Today’s blog post comes from Bro. Anthony Trento, the newly installed Master Councilor of Freedom Chapter, which just moved to a new location under the sponsorship of New London Lodge No. 545.  These are his remarks to the assembled members and guests after the ceremony.  We present them here as an example of what all Master Councilors should do at their installation:

1. Have a prepared text.
2. Share personal observations about the experience.
3. Share broad plans for the future—a theme, or a goal or two—not a complete calendar review.
4. Say “Thank You” and say it often!

Bro. Eric Dye, State Scribe, Installs Bro. Trento.

"For my first installation as Master Councilor for Freedom Chapter about a year or so ago, I had this great opening joke.  I had worked on this single joke practically longer than any other part of my speech in hopes that, when I read it, it would lighten the mood by giving the audience a small laugh, which, in turn, would hopefully make me feel welcomed, and I would then have an easier time going on through my speech.  By the time I had been called to the altar to give my responses I was too nervous to walk, I was shaking just trying to kneel down.  When I had finally reached the east I was soooo nervous that I had to skip the joke that I had worked so hard on.

The reason I’m saying this is not to say, “HEY I’m bringing back the old joke,”  because again, I am way too nervous for that, but instead, it’s to teach a lesson that through my last term as Master Councilor I had learned the hard way that ”life is what happens when you are making other plans.”
To me this was something new.  I tend to be very hard on myself and precise, and therefore tend to stress when things don’t go as planned.  You can imagine my dilemma.  With things changing around me within this Chapter, the new Lodge, and the new Advisors, I have begun to not only accept this idea but to have put it to work in my new outlook on Master Councilor.

Before I begin I would like to thank all the visitors here today.  It’s wonderful to see this much support for Freedom Chapter and DeMolay.  Also a huge thank you to the advisors and parents of Freedom Chapter.  Without you this Chapter would be next to nothing.  So, Thank You.
Two particular Advisors stand out to me, personally.  Mom Shuler and Dad Tony.  Mom Schuler supports all of the boys 100% and puts everyone else before herself.  I don’t think I could thank her enough but I would like to start by saying, “Thank you.”   Now, Dad Tony, I find him as a great role model for myself and the other boys of this Chapter. He has recently added DeMolay Advisor to his very busy schedule, of which he is also the Worshipful Master of his Lodge. Thank you whole-heartedly from both myself and on behalf of the Chapter.

Now, as some of you may have noticed Freedom is honored to call New London Lodge their new home. Would New London Lodge members Ted Wallace, Armand Frankhart and Earl Hatton please rise?  These three New London Lodge members went above and beyond for our Chapter and do so with every meeting by attending our stated meetings and bringing forward ideas that I will be sure to incorporate in my term plan.  I would like to give a great big thank you for their dedication.  I hope to impress you and make your hard work worthwhile. Thank you.

Change…..  the act or instance of making or becoming different.  Freedom Chapter has gone through a lot of change, some better than others, hence this new Lodge.  As a small Chapter, change affects us the most, but we are still here, growing slowly and achieving greatness. With all of this I thought a great theme for my term would be “focus,” just as Senior DeMolay Walt Disney said, “Times and conditions change so rapidly that we must keep our aim constantly focused on the future.”  So my theme for this year is FOCUS, both personally and as a Chapter.

Now, when I say Focus I don’t mean re-doing everything-- that would be pointless. I’m talking about going back to DeMolay’s roots—focusing on tradition, the old fashioned way, because, if it was successful once, then it should be successful now.  Additionally, I’m taking a whole new look on the MC job, because that’s what it is, a job.

As Master Councilor you are being counted on constantly to make the Chapter stronger than the past year.  This year I’m going to focus more on the Chapter and less on the idea of Master Councilor.  I’m going to act as a Representative of the Chapter and less as the final say to something.  I’ve started this by including not only the members of Freedom, but also Freedom’s Advisors AND New London Lodge members in creating the design of my term plan – or should I say OUR term plan. While looking back to our DeMolay traditions and working as a team with the positive influence from these wonderful new Lodge members and their spouses,  Freedom Chapter has a great foundation to grow and become stronger than ever.  Some say history repeats itself.  Well, PA DeMolay has had 90 years and is still thriving, and that seems like a good part of history to repeat. As Mark Twain says, “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.”  So… guys, let’s get started."

Jump Starting Your Car

DeMolays travel. A lot. One of the dangers of all of this travel is having something go wrong with your vehicle. Often, that something is a dead battery, for one reason or another. There has been more than one occasion were a DeMolay found his car battery had gone kaput while he was in a meeting and needed a jump afterwards. I'm always surprised by the number of DeMolays (and adults) who don't know how to jump start a car with a dead battery. Thankfully, the Art of Manliness is here to help with an awesome video on how to do it in just a few steps.

Also, there's a little Easter Egg is this video that should pop out to all of the members of the fraternity. Enjoy - and I hope you learn something!

 

Frat! ~ "Dad" Seth Anthony

Introducing Bro. Nicholas Capes

Today's post comes from Bro. Nick Capes, of Illinois DeMolay, who will be assisting "Dad" Panitzke and "Dad" Loughin  in running the Key Man Conference this year. Check it out and get to know him!

Greetings brothers! My name is Nicholas Capes and I am excited to be this year’s Youth Director of the new Key Man University!

As some of you may know, I am currently the State Master Councilor of Illinois. My upbringing through DeMolay was fairly quick. I joined DeMolay in March of 2010 and became an appointed state officer 8 months later. Four months after that, I was elected State Junior Councilor by my brothers and set along the fast track of learning years of DeMolay material in a matter of one. During my time as State Junior Councilor, I also served as Master Councilor of my home chapter, David M. Wheeler Chapter. That same year, I was elected Deputy State Master Councilor.

Being both the Master Councilor of my chapter and the Deputy State Master Councilor of my jurisdiction was definitely one of the hardest times of my life. A mere three years and two months after I joined the order, I was elected State Master Councilor for one of the most prosperous Jurisdictions in DeMolay International, and it was a great achievement. It definitely goes to show that anything is possible when you put your heart and soul into it.

As you have been reading, this year’s Key Man is being overhauled. We are hoping to bring individualized experiences to all of you. If you have attended Key Man before, I recommend you come again and enjoy what the new Key Man University has to offer. If you know me personally, you know I am energetic and sometimes crazy, so imagine what Key Man 2014 is going to be like with me as Youth Director!

As always, I hope you are enjoying your time in DeMolay. I invite all active DeMolays to attend KMU, as I am sure there is something you will learn. There is nothing better than a week spent with your brothers. And don’t forget, sweethearts are allowed to attend now too!

If you have any questions, I am available by email me at n.capes@ildemolay.org, or you can message me on Facebook. I am always looking for new ideas so don’t be afraid to offer some advice! We are here for you, which means we need your input. Let us make this the best Key Man ever!

Nicholas Capes
Youth Director, Key Man 2014

Tie Tips for Everyone

The Art of Manliness just put out this awesome neck tie infographic that I had to share with everyone. Enjoy! (You can click the image to get a bigger version for reading.)

Frat! ~ "Dad" Seth Anthony

 

Choosing your KMU DeMolay Major

 

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!

 

Introducing "Dad" Loughin

Today's post comes from "Dad" Dan Loughin, of Reading Chapter, who will be assisting "Dad" Panitzke in running the Key Man Conference this year. Check it out and get to know him!

Allow me to introduce myself.  I am “Dad” Loughin, and I am proud to serve as the Assistant Director of the Key Man conference this year.

As some of you know, I have a good history with DeMolay.  I joined Ches-Mont Chapter, which met in Conshohocken, in 1998.  The town is as hard to pronounce as it looks.  I served as Master Councilor of my chapter in 2000.  For the 2001/2002 Convention year, I served as State Junior Councilor.  In 2007, I joined Reading Chapter’s Advisory Council, and in 2010 I started my tenure as Chapter Advisor.  As you can imagine, I have been very busy in the DeMolay world.  I’ve even risked my head for the good of the order (if you want to know about that, ask!)

As you read in “Dad” Panitzke’s post, you should be aware by now that we are changing the Key Man Conference to a University style learning area, dedicated to teaching you what you want to learn.  This is the direction that we felt we needed to take, as DeMolay grows ever closer to a more individualized organization.  Do you like presenting Ritual?  Great!  We have a Key Man program for you.  Do you like service projects?  Great!  We have a Key Man program for you.  Do you want to be a leader in your chapter?  Great!  We have a… Do you see where I’m going?

Even if you’ve been to Key Man before, we want you to come back.  You’ll have a completely different experience than the last time you were here, I guarantee it.  Speaking of the change, you might what know that when I was an active member, we had a completely different conference.  There were 2 tracks, one for new members to DeMolay, and one for Junior and Senior Councilors.  There wasn’t much customization beyond that.  As you can imagine, this is quite the departure.

As DeMolay is for any young many between the ages of 12 and 20, we want any DeMolay between those ages to attend.  We promise that you’ll have a great week, and that your week will be nothing like another attendee’s.

I will be present at many of Pennsylvania’s events, so if you have a question on anything Key Man related, feel free to ask!

All the best,

“Dad” Loughin

Key Man Becomes KMU Under New Leadership

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?
 

Celebrating Independence

Today's post comes from "Dad" Peter Brusoe of Nation's Capital DeMolay. Enjoy!

“The government of the people, by the people and for the people.”

As DeMolays, we hear these words every time the Installing Officer presents the school books at the altar during an installation.  As a history buff, I sort of assumed that everyone knew where these words came from.  And then I was at the Lincoln Memorial with a couple of DeMolays and they were reading the Gettysburg Address and said “Oh wow, that’s like what’s in the installation ritual.”  This phraseology is pretty famous, and captures the essence of what a Democratic Republic is and should be. This phrase is so enduring that the Republic of France uses the same phrase in their constitution.

When the installation ritual was being written the memorization of the Gettysburg Address was a standard part of a public school education.  In the time since the ritual was written memorizing The Gettysburg Address has been removed in favor of other pedagogical goals.  I attended the 150^th anniversary, or the 7 score and 10 year ago anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg and I was reminded of another part of our DeMolay ritual – the 7^th preceptor.

The 7^th Preceptor talks about young men dying for their nation and helping to secure the rights and civil liberties we enjoy.  There is not an induction ceremony that goes by that I do not tear up a bit after the presentation of that virtue.  In hearing historians, Park Rangers, civil war re-enactors and reading museum exhibitors discuss the battle at Gettysburg, and other civil war battles, you hear the age of the soldiers involved and you think that those are young men that if they were living today would be DeMolays.  The graves over in Gettysburg are filled with men we would be able to call our brothers.

This week marks the 150^th anniversary of the battle, if you have not had a chance to, sit down and do some reading about Gettysburg.  Or if you feel like you know enough about the civil war, learn about another battle in our nation’s history, from the Battle of Bunker Hill in our revolutionary war, to the battle of Fallujah in the Iraqi war.  Young men, of DeMolay age, acted bravely because their national called them to duty.

This Thursday we celebrate our American Independence. As we enjoy our hot dog and a parade, lets make sure we remember and honor those who have secured those blessings which we now enjoy.

Some recommended books:

The Killer Angels
http://www.amazon.com/The-Killer-Angels-Classic-Novel/dp/0345348109

Gettysburg: The Last Invasion
http://www.amazon.com/Gettysburg-Invasion-Allen-C-Guelzo/dp/0307594084/

General Lee’s Army Victory Collapse
http://www.amazon.com/General-Lees-Army-Victory-Collapse/dp/1416596976/

Team of Rivals
http://www.amazon.com/Team-Rivals-Political-Abraham-Lincoln/dp/0743270754/

Blue Eyed Child of Fortune
http://www.amazon.com/Blue-Eyed-Child-Fortune-Letters-Colonel/dp/0820321745

A Creative Jolt

Coming from a creative workplace and mindset, I have always scoped out books, the internet and other places for different ways to keep me motivated on a certain project. I've come to learn that a lot of these techniques can be used to motivate the creative person inside of you - to help you reach a goal.

Check this link out from one of my favorite creative blogs to get an idea how to give yourself a little jolt of creativity!

http://99u.com/articles/16136/7-ways-to-boost-your-creativity

"Dad" Matt Blaisdell

Convention Update from the Youth Directors

This year’s convention will be held at the Bayfront Sheraton and Convention Center in Erie from July 19-21, and it's going to be a blast! We'd like to give everybody an idea of what’s going on during Convention 2013 to get you excited about coming. 

On Friday, there will be registration and check in. After you register, you will have the choice of optional activities; this year we are looking at mini-golf and the Erie maritime museum (both in walking distance of the hotel). You can also go visit Erie Chapter, which will be holding a hospitality suite of their own. They will also hold a meeting for everyone to attend that Friday so that DeMolays can earn some Visitation Merit Bars (although travel points will NOT count for the Visitation Competition.)

A picture of the newly updated Erie Chapter club room.

After all of the optional activities, we will have dinner. We will then go over to Presque Isle State Parkfor a few hours. While there, you will be able to walk the beach, swim, play sports, and just hang out. On Saturday we have workshops, ritual competitions, and the honors luncheon followed by the business session, (which includes Elected State Officer / State Sweetheart nomination and elections and the presentation of awards.) After the business session, we will go to Splash Lagoon, which is one of the largest indoor waterparks in the country. Apparently, they just added a brand new wave pool to the facility! On Sunday we will have breakfast and the installation of new State Officers.

Now, you may be asking yourself, why should I go? All I have to say is "why not!" Convention this year will be fun from start to finish; the hotel is beautiful, plus it is an opportunity to see your brothers from all over that state. The facility is only 5 years old and both sides of the hotel have a gorgeous view. One side has a view of the bay and Presque Isle and the other has a view of the city and marina. The rooms themselves are spacious and have 2 queen beds, a bay window, a bench, a desk going the length of the wall looking out the window, a closet, a flat screen TV, and a large bathroom. To get the Convention Center you must go down to the lobby and up a separate set of elevators and then walk across a seven-story high sky bridge made of glass (with gorgeous views.) So, with all the activities going on and the beautiful hotel why wouldn't you want to go?

The cost this year is going to be $250, but for every petition a member first line signs, they will receive $50 off their Convention cost. That means if you bring in 5 members, you get Convention paid for in full! We hope to see you all at the 2013 Pennsylvania DeMolay Convention!

P.S. Don’t forget sun block and bug spray! Also, follow us on twitter for updates and information about convention @ErieConvention.

 

See you in Erie!

Brothers Matt Traverso and Michael Donahue 

Leadership Lessons from Vatican City

Today, we have a special guest post from "Dad" Peter Brusoe, of Nation's Capital DeMolay. Enjoy!

As DeMolay Leaders, we can learn a lot about leadership by observing political leaders, business leaders, and yes, even religious leaders. Regardless of one’s personal perspective of the religious role of the Papacy, the Pope is a leader of over a billion people. The recent Papal
Conclave provides for us as leaders several important lessons.

1) Know when to ask for help: Catholics around the world were shocked that Benedict the XVI stepped down as Pope. That had not happened in the past six centuries. Hailey’s comet comes more frequently! Benedict the XVI looked ahead at the work that needed to be done, the time commitments that were required versus his own physical limitations and he knew that he needed help to address these issues. Too often in DeMolay we are too afraid to ask for help, or to admit when we need help.

2) Let the new guy lead and get out of the way: It tends to be in any leadership position that people look to the predecessor and often compare the new leader to him. This is extremely unfair to the new leader because it defines him in context of his predecessor. But if the old leader is still around and able to say “well, I would have handled it this way.” It makes it extremely awkward. Imagine for a moment that you don’t like what Pope Francis says, and you run to the Pope Emeritus to try to get a different answer. If the Pope Emeritus gives you an answer more to your liking it severely undermines the new Pope. Benedict XVI knew this, and after the Papal Helicopter took off, he has spent his time praying, writing and studying and not talking, later to spend his time praying and living a quiet life of reflection and prayer. I’m not saying as a "Past" anything that you need to go become a monk, but as past leaders we need to be respectful of the new leader, giving him support and making sure what we say does not
undermine him.

3) Things take time: American Presidential elections are generally over quickly. Master Councilor elections are over even faster. International Master Councilors elections a little longer, but not too terribly long. The Papal election? It was pretty long. In the middle of St Peter’s Square you had the worldwide media camped out, talking heads were theorizing about everything and anything to do with the election. One news source I read somewhat religiously went through and provided the accusative tense of the Latin of the first names of all the cardinals. With all of that going on the election was not rushed, and the process was deliberative. Too often we want things done now, and we must have immediate results. Yet, sometimes we need to have patience and to let things run their natural course. (unless it’s paperwork or registration forms, those need to be in early)

4) No great or important undertaking begins without first a prayer: We hear this several times during the DeMolay ritual, and without giving away too much of a surprise, in many rituals of various Masonic groups. We saw this in Vatican City as well. After Jean-Louis Cardinal Tauran announced the new pope and Pope Francis was to give the City and the World blessing, he stopped and asked the people crowding in St Peter’s square to pray for his predecessor. Goose bumps could only begin to describe the feeling of hearing so many people pray the basic prayers we teach to first communion students. Then the new Pope asked the people to pray for him. And the crowd that was so loud 30 seconds before was quiet to hear a pin drop. As leaders, regardless of what faith tradition we observe, there is something to be said for prayer or silent
meditation to help collect your thoughts and for guidance.

5) Don’t count your chickens until the eggs hatch or don’t believe the hype: A lot of people do papal prognostication. Forrest Maltzman and a team from George Washington University even wrote an academic article Vox Populi, Vox Dei, Vox Sagittae (The Voice of the People is the Voice of God is the voice of Arrow ) analyzing different factors that go into the election. The Italian Bishop’s Conference assumed that Cardinal Scola from Milan had won the election, and had sent him a Congratulations email on his election as Supreme Pontiff. Oops! It’s always best to wait and verify the information rather than go off on hype or rumors.

6) Humility is a good thing: It should be in the natural progress of any Catholic boy’s youth to consider one of three ambitions. 1) Play football for Notre Dame, 2) Get a basketball scholarship to a Jesuit School, 3) Become Pope. For Pope Francis, No. 3 happened. Not only is he the leader of over a billion Catholics, he’s also hit the top of the promotion list for the church. The Papacy comes with some pretty nice perks. One of those includes a car. When all of the cardinals were headed over to an event the Pope eschewed the car, but went on the same bus as everyone else. When the cardinals pledged their obedience and support rather than taking those pledges sitting on an elevated platform, Francis took them standing on the level with his brother cardinals. As DeMolay Leaders we should make sure that we stay humble and remember that we are equals and brothers. Perhaps the single greatest line in any piece of DeMolay Ritual comes from the installation service, when we are reminded from the ranks we emerged and to the ranks we shall soon return.

7) Take care of your obligations to others: On the first day after you've been elected Pope, what do you do? If you’re Pope Francis you head to the boarding house that you were staying in and pay the bill in full. He didn't send a functionary, but went himself. The boarding house offered to forgive his bill, but he paid it in full. As leaders we need to make sure that if we have obligations to others that we fulfill it.

8) It’s good to break with tradition: The Catholic Church has a bit of reputation of being a traditional institution. I’ve been trying to convince our Coffee Hour Committee to go with Dunkin Donuts over Krispy Kreme for the past six years; change doesn't happen overnight. Popes tend to be Italian, and if not Italian, at least European. Yet, this election we went with someone from the Americas. Pretty exciting! Then with the names, 37 papal names have occurred more than once. John being the most popular at 21 times, Gregory at 16 times, Benedict at 15 or 16 times depending if you count Benedict X. Other names less frequently, including Pope Saint Hilarius (who reigned from 461-468), and of course the best name in the universe, Peter (reigned from 33-67). The new Pope went with Francis. Too often in DeMolay we are limited by our traditions and the phrase “we never did it that way.” We need to be open to and willing to accept new challenges and ideas. If the Papacy can break with traditions in leadership and customs, surely we can break with traditions in what our chapters do.

Kingdom of DeMolay Update

Today we have a guest post from Bro. Robbie Smith, who is on the PA DeMolay Committee for the Kingdom of DeMolay. He writes:

The Kingdom of DeMolay will be back up and running for current members as of 1/7/12. We ask that new members stay tuned, as your admission into the Kingdom will be soon. The staff has moved the Kingdom to better servers for better connections and in game physics. Everything will run a lot smother now, except for the few minor bugs that need worked out. Any bugs should be reported to KingdomOfDeMolay@gmail.com.

The next Round Table will be held on January 15, 2013. Anyone who attends will be given a free in game Flying Dragon. Please come and bring your ideas, comments, questions and concerns.

Dress to Impress

Last week, I posted a quick overview of how to dress for DeMolay events. After I published the article, "Dad" Zack Panitzke sent me a link to a great overview of some other men's fashion information. All information is copyright to the original poster.

Check it out! You can click any image for a larger view!