VW DeMolay members attend conclave

KENT — Ten young men from the Van Wert Chapter Order of DeMolay traveled to Kent State University to attend the annual state convention, or “conclave”, of Ohio DeMolay.

During this gathering, which took place July 14-17, young men from all over the state participated in the annual business meeting, the conferring of honors, and several fun events. 
Van Wert Chapter attained recognition from the executive officer for its successes in membership for 2011 for the second year in a row. Those Van Wert Chapter members in attendance were invited to a special party hosted by the executive officer, where they had the opportunity to enjoy a large selection of miniature golf, batting cages, a driving range, and bank-it basketball.

Van Wert Master Councilor Jordan Dettrow, as well as Jon Lisa and Robbie Trittschuh, who serve as junior and senior councilors, were recognized for their extra efforts in membership this past year. Bob Laing, a past master councilor of Van Wert Chapter and past chairman of Northwest Ohio, was elected to serve as state master councilor, the highest ranking officer in the state of Ohio, for the 2011-2012 state term. He has served on the State Council for the past two years.

Laing, the son of Dr. Kevin and Barbara Laing, has outlined an ambitious and innovative schedule for the year.
A.J Thomas of the Van Wert Chapter was selected to serve Ohio DeMolay as the state chaplain. Thomas is also a past master councilor of Van Wert and is the son of Keith and Jill Thomas.

The remainder of the Ohio State Council of officers includes: Mark Chong (Columbus), deputy state master councilor; Nick Bolyard (Columbus), state scribe; Andy Moser (Cleveland), senior deacon; Sam Cohen (Columbus), junior deacon; and Matt Hare (Cleveland), marshal.

It was announced at DeMolay State Conclave that Van Wert native Nate Simson is a recipient of the Ohio Eastern Star scholarship to assist in his college expenses this fall at Ball State University. Simson’s parents are Jay and Lynn Simson.

DeMolay is an organization dedicated to preparing young men to lead successful, happy, and productive lives. Basing its approach on timeless principles and practical hands-on experience, DeMolay opens doors for young men ages 12-21 by developing the civic awareness, personal responsibility and leadership skills so vitally needed in society today.

DeMolay combines this serious mission with a fun approach that builds important bonds of friendship among members in more than 1,000 chapters worldwide. DeMolay alumni include Walt Disney, John Wayne, Walter Cronkite, football Hall-of-Famer Fran Tarkenton, legendary Nebraska football coach Tom Osborne, news anchor David Goodnow and many others. Each has spoken eloquently of the life-changing benefit gained from their involvement in DeMolay.

Any young man interested should contact Bob Laing at 419.203.7575, Dr. Kevin M Laing at 419.238.9980, or Master Councilor Jordan Dettrow at 419.203.9740.