DeMolay Ohio holds annual conclave

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KENT — Ohio DeMolay held its annual Conclave at Kent State University July 19-22. At the annual gathering the young men of Ohio DeMolay elected and installed new officers to lead the organization for the ensuing year, conferred honors upon Advisors and Members who had been recognized by DeMolay International, and enjoyed a weekend of fellowship and recreational activities crowned by the Grand Ball. Nine local members and three local advisors of Van Wert Chapter were in attendance for the festivities.

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 aged 12 to 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. The Order of DeMolay was founded in 1919, and millions of young men have been a part of the fraternity.

Van Wert’s Robert Laing, son of Dr. and Mrs. Kevin Laing, was replaced by Mark Chong of Columbus as state master councilor. Laing was the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes outstanding service to others in his home, school, church, chapter, community and country. Laing also received a jewel recognizing his service to DeMolay and his status as past state master councilor, and a scholarship from the Eastern Star of Ohio. Laing was the first ever from Van Wert to serve as state master councilor of Ohio DeMolay.

A.J. Thomas, son of Mr. and Mrs. Keith Thomas, was installed to serve as state marshal for the next DeMolay year. Robbie Trittschuh, son of Mr. and Mrs. Steven Trittschuh, was installed to serve the Ohio State Council as first preceptor. Trittschuh also received the Past Master Councilor Meritorious Service Award. Additionally Jon Lisa, son of Rocco Lisa and Carole Motycka, was selected to serve as state communications officer for the Fifth District of Ohio DeMolay. Nick Motycka, son of Mr. and Mrs. Trent Motycka, was awarded recognition for the best performance in the initiation ceremony for the First District. Van Wert Chapter was awarded for membership performance. Dr. Kevin M. Laing was awarded recognition for being “Advisor of the Year”.

Any young man who has interest in becoming a member or finding out more about DeMolay should contact Dr. Laing or any of the members of Van Wert Chapter.