POLICIES & PROCEDURES OF DEMOLAY IN WISCONSIN PROMULGATED: JULY 19, 2012 LAST REVISED AND PROMULGATED APRIL

Transcription

1 POLICIES & PROCEDURES OF DEMOLAY IN WISCONSIN PROMULGATED: JULY 19, 2012 LAST REVISED AND PROMULGATED APRIL 9, 2014 Changes to the Rules and Regulations of DeMolay International may alter these policies from time to time. In all cases, these policies are subordinate to the Rules and Regulations of DeMolay International. Table of Contents Topic Page 1. Membership Eligibility 2 2. Dual Membership 2 3. Athletic Activities of Chapters 2 4. Other Organization 3 5. Sweethearts 3 6. By-Laws 3 7. DeMolay International Rule Changes and Chapter Bylaws 3 8. Honors Nominations 4 9. Tax Laws S p o n s o r s Use of DeMolay Logo Chapter Websites Authorized Activities Driving to a DeMolay Function Youth Protection Program Authorization for Medical Care Parents and Others at Degrees, Meetings and Chapter Functions Advisors Dress Code Harassment, Alcohol, Illegal Drugs, Firearms and Other Matters Use of Tobacco Products Use of and Forms of Electronic Communication Behavior of Participants, Coaches, Advisors, parents and Spectators at DeMolay Athletic Contests DeMolay Degree DeMolay Robes Ritual and Regalia: Public Ceremonies Presentation of Ritual Work and Public 14 Ceremonies 28. Past Master Councilor's Regalia Conferral of Honors Comments on the Policies and Procedures 15

2 1. Membership Eligibility. General Membership in the Order of DeMolay shall be limited to young men who: a. Are not yet twenty one years of age. b. Profess a belief in a supreme being. c. Affirm their loyalty to their country and respect for its flag. d. Adhere to the practice of personal morality. e. Pledge themselves to uphold the high ideals typified by the seven cardinal virtues in the Crown of Youth. f. Accept the philosophy of the Universal Brotherhood of Man and the nobility of character typified by the life and death of Jacques DeMolay. These six requirements are based upon the Sacred Landmarks of the Order of DeMolay, published in the front of the DeMolay International Rules and Regulations. Additionally, the Rules and Regulations of DeMolay International specify that an application may be received only from a young man who has passed his 12th birthday and not yet reached his 21st birthday and that he must be recommended by two members of the Order of DeMolay, or by a Senior DeMolay, or by a Mason. All applicants meeting the requirements stated above must be given equal treatment via the balloting procedures as prescribed by the Rules and Regulations of DeMolay International. Age to Apply for Membership - Chapters in Wisconsin may elect to recruit young men at ages higher than the minimum allowed, however they may not reject or refuse to accept an application from a young man of legal DeMolay age who has applied for membership solely on the basis of age. 2. Dual Membership. Dual membership will be permitted with the written permission of the Executive Officer. A DeMolay seeking to hold dual membership shall state in writing his reasons for requesting dual membership, and shall produce evidence that his "home" Advisory Council approves his request. Unless the Executive Officer rules to the contrary, suspension or expulsion from one Chapter is binding upon the other Chapter. 3. Athletic Activities of Chapters. Athletic activities that are covered under our current insurance policy and may be authorized activities for DeMolay Chapters are specified in the Insurance Update issued annually and revised as necessary by DeMolay International. It is necessary to insure that all athletic activities are properly supervised to minimize the risk of injury and exposure to legal action. To accomplish this, the following shall be followed: 2

3 a. Participation by a DeMolay Chapter in any competitive team athletic program must be approved, in advance, by the Executive Officer or his designee. Competitions involving essentially individual, non contact sports, such as bowling, golf, tennis and swimming are exempt from this condition. b. Authorized athletic competitions sponsored b y Wisconsin DeMolay must be supervised by a member of the State Staff and at least two other registered Advisors to insure that safety is of primary concern in all games. c. All practices held by Chapters for authorized competitions must be carefully supervised by the appropriate number of Advisors to reduce the risk of accident or injury. d. It is the policy of the Executive Officer that athletic activities involving DeMolay Chapters are to be promoted for their educational and recreational nature and not solely for competitive purposes. DeMolay athletics must be safe, must be fun, and must involve all members who want to participate. 4. Other Organizations. DeMolay Chapters are encouraged to work with other organizations in promotion of shared ideals. As such, DeMolay members are permitted to serve as escorts, may participate in joint social, civic and fund raising projects, and are encouraged to support public functions of these groups. Participation with other organizations is left to the discretion of the Advisory Councils. 5. Sweethearts. Chapters are encouraged to have one Chapter Sweetheart and are to develop a selection process of their own. Chapter Sweethearts can do much to promote interest of the members and of prospective members in the activities of the Chapter. A State Sweetheart program is also permitted and encouraged. All Sweethearts shall abide by all policies set forth by the State Sweetheart Advisor and the Sweetheart handbook. 6. By-Laws. Chapters should annually review their Chapter By-laws to ensure that all provisions are being observed, and that no provision is in conflict with the Rules and Regulations of DeMolay International. Bylaw changes must be approved by 2/3 vote of the Chapter. All amendments to Chapter By-laws are subject to review by the Executive Officer, and do not become effective until he has provided written approval and authorization to enforce. Advisory Council By-laws, Chevalier Court By-laws and Legion of Honor Preceptory By-laws, if they exist, are also t o be submitted to the Executive Officer for review and approval. 7. DeMolay International Rule Changes and Chapter Bylaws. When changes in DeMolay International policy conflict with existing provisions of Chapter Bylaws, the Bylaws of the local Chapter shall be considered as automatically changed to conform to the Rules and Regulations of DeMolay International. Likewise, any local Chapter bylaw, extant or proposed, which conflicts with the Rules and Regulations of DeMolay International, is null and void. 3

4 8. Honors Nominations. Nominations for DeMolay International Honors (Chevalier, Cross of Honor, Legion of Honor, etc.) may only be submitted to DeMolay International by the Executive Officer. DeMolay Chapter Advisory Councils, Chevalier Courts, Legion of Honor Preceptories, and holders of the Legion of Honor should forward all nominations to the Executive Officer for his approval. Final approval of all nominations are within the sole discretionary authority of the Executive Officer and are not subject to review by any person or body except DeMolay International. The individual under consideration is not to know about the recommendation, and absolute secrecy regarding the submission of nominations to the Executive Officer must be maintained, or the recommendations may be rejected, and nominations to DeMolay International withdrawn. An Advisory Council must fully explain the reasons for nominating an individual for an honor as indicated on the nomination form. The Executive Officer has final authority to accept the reasons or ask for more reasons for granting a nomination. Members of the Legion of Honor residing in Wisconsin, who wish to recommend a Senior DeMolay or a Master Mason to receive the Legion of Honor, may make their recommendation by submitting a complete Honor Nomination Form to the Executive Officer. The deadline for submission of honors nominations to the Executive Officer is March 1st of each year. 9. Tax Laws. All Wisconsin DeMolay Chapters are included under the umbrella of DeMolay International as 501(c)(3) charitable organizations. As such, they are exempt from paying State and Federal income tax, by virtue of a group exemption issued to DeMolay International. However, all Chapters must file a Form 990T, regardless of their gross income, and must meet all applicable IRS reporting requirements. All Chapters currently have a Federal Identification Number (FIN). All new Chapters must obtain one and provide it to the Executive Officer so it can be given to DeMolay International. 10. Sponsoring and Supporting Bodies. Pursuant to the Rules and Regulations of DeMolay International, only an organization composed exclusively of Masons or an Advisory Council may sponsor a DeMolay Chapter. Thus, a Masonic Lodge, a Shrine Club, a Royal Arch Chapter, a Commandery of Knights Templar or a Valley of the Scottish Rite may sponsor a DeMolay Chapter in Wisconsin. An Advisory Council appointed by the Executive Officer may also sponsor a DeMolay Chapter. Other organizations, approved by the Executive Officer, may be Supporting Bodies. Thus, an Elks Lodge (which has at least three Master Masons as members) or a Chapter of the Order of Eastern Star may be a Supporting Body. 4

5 Chapters should attempt to involve their Sponsoring and Supporting Bodies in their activities and business. Presiding Officers of Sponsoring and Supporting Bodies, or their representatives, should be extended an invitation to attend any meeting of the Chapter or Advisory Council, Installations of Officers and other Chapter functions. 11. Use of DeMolay Logo. DeMolay International gives the Executive Officer permission to use its logos and emblems within the jurisdiction. Wisconsin DeMolay is part of DeMolay International and should be proud to let people know this. When a DeMolay logo is used, it is the policy in Wisconsin to use the DeMolay International "swoosh" on all external state and chapter communications with the public. The use of the DeMolay International "swoosh" on internal state and chapter communications is encouraged. This conveys the message that we are part of a larger organization of stature. It is permissible, however, to use the DeMolay International "swoosh" without a tagline or with a Wisconsin or chapter tag-line instead of the word "International" when the communication is for internal state or chapter use only. With the approval of the Executive Officer, use of DeMolay logos on merchandise sold or given away in Wisconsin is permissible. Use of a DeMolay logo on merchandise sold or given away outside of Wisconsin requires permission of DeMolay International. Examples follow: 1. When promoting membership to boys and their parents in local communities or on a statewide basis, always use the DeMolay International "swoosh" as this is a communication with the public. 2. When sending a newsletter or notice to the DeMolay and advisor group in Wisconsin about a Wisconsin DeMolay event, use of the DeMolay International "swoosh" is encouraged, but it is permissible to use the DeMolay "swoosh" with the Wisconsin tag-line. 3. Use of the DeMolay "swoosh" with the Wisconsin tag-line is permissible when promulgating the Policies and Procedures of DeMolay in Wisconsin. 3. Giving away a flash drive in Wisconsin with the name "DeMolay" and no tag-line is permissible. 5

6 12. Chapter Websites. Wisconsin DeMolay Chapters are encouraged to have Chapter websites. If a Chapter chooses to have a website, they must follow the following requirements: All Chapter websites must be approved by the Chapter Advisory Council before being posted. The Advisory Council must appoint a r e g i s t e r e d A d v i s o r a s t h e Website Advisor. The Website Advisor's name m u s t appear on the website. The Website Advisor is responsible for the content and appropriateness of the website. A Non Chapter website (such as a Court of Chevaliers website), must also have a Website Advisor who is a registered Advisor, if the website involves Active DeMolays in any way. An e mail contact for the Website Advisor must appear on the website. The website should contain links to both and The website must contain an allegiance statement, as follows: "This website [or "This online publication"] acknowledges the authority and yields allegiance to DeMolay International, of which Frank S. Land was Founder." Addresses, home or cell phone numbers, and other direct contact information should never be posted for Active DeMolays. A dd resses may be posted for Active DeMolays, but only with their approval. Parental approval is needed for posting of any personal information, including e mail, for members 18 and younger. Links should be carefully chosen, and periodically monitored for appropriateness. Links to websites inconsistent with the principles of DeMolay are not permitted. Links to member s individual websites are permitted, provided they give their permission to be linked. It is assumed that our members will maintain their own websites in conformity with DeMolay principles, but it is the responsibility of the DeMolay website owners to ensure appropriateness before linking to a member's website. Under no circumstances may any DeMolay website contain pornography, obscenity (including obscene language), sexual or other inappropriate humor, or material that is racist, sexist, or otherwise inconsistent with the ideals of DeMolay. The Executive Officer, or his designee, has final right to determine appropriateness of material, and inappropriate material must be removed immediately upon notice from the Executive Officer or his designee. In some cases, additional measures may be taken, such as removal of a website or other appropriate disciplinary action. 6

7 13. Authorized Activities. All activities held in the name of a DeMolay Chapter must be authorized by the Advisory Council of the Chapter, and recorded in the minutes of the Chapter meetings as required by DeMolay International Rules and Regulations. A minimum of two registered Advisors must supervise all authorized activities of the Chapter. 14. Driving to a DeMolay Function. The guidelines published in the DeMolay Insurance and Risk Management Guide, issued by DeMolay International, is recommended to all Advisory Councils when determining who should drive on Chapter functions. Advisory Councils may use their own discretion in permitting SAFE drivers who possess a current valid driver's license to provide transportation for Chapter members. Maturity and experience are known to make safer drivers. Drivers must have a safe driving record, and must exhibit safe driving habits. The driver shall insist that all passengers wear seat belts as required by state law. Motorcycles may not be used to provide transportation for passengers to DeMolay functions. However, an individual may use these vehicles to transport himself to and from an activity. Local Advisory Councils have the authority to make the decision to not allow individual drivers to provide transportation if they do not show good driving habits at any time. 15. Youth Protection Program. The Youth Protection Program, provided to every W isconsin DeMolay Chapter, must be used and the video must be shown at least once each term to the Chapter members and advisors. It is also suggested that all new members see the video, as a part of their orientation process. The following Youth Protection Guidelines and Policies are designed to protect DeMolay members, but they also protect adult volunteers from unfounded allegations of abuse. All adults have the responsibility to observe the boundaries between acceptable and unacceptable behavior. DeMolay has taken great care to prevent even the appearance of impropriety between adult volunteers and youth members. Strict adherence to these policies and procedures will help assure that DeMolay chapters will be able to conduct their programs safely. Two-deep leadership At least two members of the adult leadership team shall attend all DeMolay meetings and other DeMolay activities. It is recommended that two members of the adult leadership team accompany DeMolay members on all trips, 7

8 outings and DeMolay chapter activities. Additional leadership may be required depending on the size of the group and the event. Safety rule of four Chapters should implement the "safety rule of four" which requires that no fewer than four individuals (always a minimum of two adults) go on trips and outings. If an accident occurs, one person stays with the injured and two go for help. No unauthorized ceremonies or organizations Only ceremonies published in the DeMolay Ritual, or the Monitor of Ceremonies, or those approved in writing and in advance by the Executive Officer for DeMolay in Wisconsin may be performed. "Secret" activities, unofficial organizations and unsanctioned ceremonies outside of DeMolay are not authorized by DeMolay International and are not permitted as part of any DeMolay activity. Hazing is not permitted Hazing is not a part of DeMolay ceremonies and is not permitted. Activities in private homes Activities involving DeMolay members and adult volunteers in private homes should not be conducted without the approval of the chapter's Advisory Council and notice provided to the members parents, and then only while adhering to the two-deep leadership policy. Respect of privacy Adult volunteers must respect the privacy of DeMolay members in situations such as changing clothes or taking showers and intrude only to the extent that health and safety requires. Adult volunteers must also protect their own privacy in similar situations. Adult volunteers must always change clothes and shower separately from DeMolay members. Separate accommodations Persons over 21 must sleep in separate quarters from persons under 21, except in extreme emergencies when the health or well-being of a DeMolay member may be at risk. Do not house DeMolay members with adult volunteers (other than their own parents) or house younger DeMolay members with significantly older DeMolay members. Always attempt to house youth members with other youth of the same or similar age. Co-ed activities Co-educational activities require adult volunteers of both sexes, separate accommodations for male and female participants and guidelines that clarify standards of conduct. 8

9 Females must sleep in separate quarters from males. Female adult volunteers should sleep in separate quarters from females under 21. Drugs and alcohol The use or possession of alcohol or illegal drugs, or the abuse of over-thecounter or prescription drugs, or any other substance for non-medicinal purposes, by members or adult volunteers, during DeMolay activities is not permitted. Illicit media Sexually oriented videos, magazines, photographs, games or other media are not permitted as part of any DeMolay activity. Physical contact Adults will avoid unnecessary physical contact with DeMolay members, such as (but not limited to) placing hands on legs, tickling, wrestling, and patting backsides or buttocks. Proper attire required Adults must not permit activities involving group nudity, such as "skinny dipping, or public exposure, such as mooning, etc. Photos and videos Photographs and videos of DeMolay activities must be representative of the values of the organization. Positive role models Adult volunteers must never tell off-color jokes or stories to DeMolay members. Adult volunteers should be conscious of their responsibility to be positive role models. Discipline Discipline used in DeMolay should be constructive and reflect DeMolay s commitment to teach and emulate respect and responsibility. Corporal punishment is never permitted. No one-on-one contacts Individual adults must not be isolated with individual DeMolay members. If a conversation between an adult volunteer and a DeMolay needs to be confidential, the adult volunteer should speak with the DeMolay member in an open setting where they are out of hearing range, but still can be seen by others. Avoid rooms with closed doors, closed tents, motor homes, vehicles or other secluded locations where you cannot be fully seen by others. Recognize the signs and be responsive If a DeMolay member or youth involved in a DeMolay activity complains or comments about an experience he or she has had with an adult that may suggest or infer physical abuse, sexual molestation, or any other type of inappropriate activity, the youth should be taken seriously. Adult volunteers should remember that the youth is not likely to articulate his or her concern in an adult manner. It may take the form of declining to associate with a particular adult for no apparent reason or abruptly leaving the activity. 9

10 Intervention When an adult observes another adult volunteer or significantly older DeMolay relate to an active DeMolay in a manner that is not clearly objectionable, but possibly may be misconstrued as abuse or harassment, he or she should respectfully warn the observed person to avoid conduct that may be misunderstood, and should then alert the Advisory Council Chairman of the occurrence. Parental notification of activities Parental notification of official DeMolay activities should communicate the date, place, and beginning and ending times for the activity. Parents are always welcome and should be encouraged to participate in DeMolay activities. Reporting of Violation of Policy or Abuse Any adult who witnesses or becomes aware of any violation of policy, instance of abuse or any behavior that may put any young person at risk has an obligation to report the incident or behavior to the Executive Officer for DeMolay in Wisconsin immediately. 16. Authorization for Medical Care. All Chapters must keep an active file of up to date authorizations for medical care, which shall accompany the supervising advisor(s) on long distance trips. These authorizations are essential for obtaining needed emergency medical treatment. No authorization may be more than 12 months old. Chapters are urged to update the authorizations at the beginning of each calendar year. 17. Parents and Others at Degrees, Meetings and Chapter Functions. The Rules and Regulations of DeMolay International permit the father, mother, stepfather, stepmother, or legal guardian of a DeMolay and any other adult individual permitted by the Executive Officer to visit a tiled Chapter or witness any of the ritual. The purpose of this regulation is to alleviate parental concerns about their children participating in secret ceremonies (of which there are none). This is not optional. Parents have a right to attend every tiled meeting and function of the Chapter at which their child is present. In Wisconsin, any other adult individual permitted by the Executive Officer includes any adult family member, schoolteacher or administrator, local government or law enforcement official, or member of the clergy. Additionally, any other adult over the age of 21 years may be admitted with the consent of a Chapter s Advisory Council. Brothers of members are not permitted to attend inductions or tiled meetings unless they are members of DeMolay or are at least 21years of age. Sisters of members must be at least 21. In Wisconsin, Sweethearts or other women under age 21 may be admitted to Chapter meetings during the business portion of the meeting or during the drama portion of the DeMolay Degree. 10

11 18. Advisors. Advisors are to advise, not dictate nor direct. Wherever possible, "Let the boys do it." Where it becomes necessary for an Advisor to correct a statement or decision of a DeMolay member, particularly a Master Councilor, this should be done in private if possible. Every Chapter shall have a Ritual Advisor, who shall provide counsel and advise to new DeMolay members in learning their obligations and to DeMolays who participate in the Initiatory and DeMolay Degrees, as well as the public ceremonies of DeMolay. Every Chapter is encouraged to have at least one female Advisor on the Advisory Council. If the Chapter has a Chapter Sweetheart, the Chapter is encouraged to have a female Advisor as the Sweetheart Advisor. Regardless of Masonic or other membership, no one may serve as an Advisor for a DeMolay Chapter in Wisconsin unless he or she is at least 21 years of age. The minimum age for a Chapter Advisor is 25, unless waived by the Executive Officer. Generally, a member of DeMolay or other youth organization who attains senior or majority status should take some time away from the DeMolay Chapter or other organization before becoming an Advisor. There is a difference between being "one of the guys" and being an Advisor. However, the Executive Officer will usually rely on the Chapter Advisory Council to use its discretion when admitting a young (or any new) Advisor to the Advisory Council. An Advisor may only serve on one Advisory Council. If an Advisor is serving on two or more Advisory Councils, the Executive Officer shall determine the Advisory Council on which the Advisor shall serve. 19. Dress Code. The proper dress for all DeMolay events in Wisconsin (stated or special meetings, installations, initiations, athletic or social events) is within the discretion of the State Officers in the event of a state event or the individual Chapters in the event of a chapter event. Dress for meeting should reflect the high ideals of DeMolay, remembering that sloppy clothing reflects on the organization. For public functions such as installations, coat and tie are suggested, but a neat shirt and trousers may be acceptable. Street shoes, not athletic shoes, are appropriate. A less formal dress code is, of course, appropriate for informal events. The dress code should be conveyed when notifying DeMolay members of the event. 11

12 20. Harassment, Alcohol, Illegal Drugs, Firearms and Other Matters. For the protection, safety and welfare of DeMolays, Advisors, parents, sweethearts, adult volunteers and others present at DeMolay activities, there shall be no physical, verbal or sexual abuse of anyone at any DeMolay activity. The possession or use of alcohol, illegal drugs, pornography, obscene materials, or the hazing of any kind at any DeMolay function is prohibited, including travel to and from any function, whether or not the event is public or private. Firearms, whether in the possession of young people or adults are prohibited at any DeMolay function, unless the individual is a law enforcement officer required to carry such weapon. This policy applies to all DeMolays, Senior DeMolays, Advisors, parents, sweethearts, adult volunteers, guests and anyone else present at any DeMolay function. Violations of the foregoing policies may result in suspension or expulsion from membership or termination of the privilege to participate in or attend DeMolay functions. 21. Use of Tobacco Products. Use of tobacco products at DeMolay functions is prohibited. This policy applies equally to DeMolays and Advisors, and includes cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, snuff, etc. Regardless of the presence of a public smoking area, DeMolays and Advisors should refrain from smoking in the presence of DeMolay members who are not of lawful age. The actions of a DeMolay or Advisor should not lead anyone to believe that the DeMolay or its leadership endorses the habit of smoking or using tobacco products. 22. Use of and Forms of Electronic Communication. DeMolay Chapters and individuals may use electronic means of communication to supplement phone contacts and other forms of communication. , websites and social media (such as facebook) are acceptable m e thods of communication. Some members may not have access to such forms of electronic communication. In such cases, other forms of communication should be used for regular monthly meeting notices, calendars and newsletters. E mail, websites and social media communications should never be considered as private. Material sent o r d i s t r i b u t e d electronically should always be consistent with the ideals of DeMolay. Advisors, Members and all others involved with DeMolay are cautioned that, even if sent or published by error, a communication of offensive, rude, or crude material to or about anyone may result in suspension or expulsion from membership, or termination of the privilege to participate in or attend DeMolay functions. 12

13 Distribution of pornographic or obscene material or use of vulgar language (including initials) by anyone is not appropriate for DeMolay members, Advisors or anyone connected with DeMolay. Anyone receiving or viewing inappropriate material from anyone, should immediately inform the sender/publisher that distributing/publishing such material is inconsistent with the principles of DeMolay. The sender/publisher should be informed that he is opening himself to charges of unbecoming conduct which may result in suspension or expulsion from membership, or termination of the privilege to participate in or attend DeMolay functions. Offenses should be reported to the Advisory Council and the Executive Officer for appropriate action. These policies are applicable to e mails, websites, social media, blogs and all other forms of electronic communication. 23. Behavior of Participants, Coaches, Advisors, parents and Spectators at DeMolay Athletic Contests. Wisconsin DeMolay has a low tolerance relating to the behavior of players, coaches, Advisors, parents and spectators. Games will be stopped if individuals display inappropriate behavior or interfere with the game. Violators may be subject to disciplinary action. Inappropriate behavior includes, but is not limited to: Directing obscene or vulgar language at anyone, for any reason. Taunting, ridiculing or threatening anyone, for any reason. Throwing any object to distract or gain attention that in any manner creates a safety hazard for anyone. Any other conduct unbecoming the standards of behavior consistent with the principles of DeMolay. Forfeitures of athletic contests may be recommended by officials to deter potential situations. The game is just a game. Character development is the primary purpose of all DeMolay competitions. All participants shall be supported and encouraged. 24. DeMolay Degree. There is a tradition in some Chapters that the candle lighter part, as called for by the DeMolay Degree ritual, be portrayed as a hunchback, or as a foot dragging, groaning character with other physical or mental disabilities. The practice of this portrayal is inappropriate and must not be used. The role of candle lighter is still permitted. Participants in the Degrees of DeMolay will walk as they are able, and the portrayal of all characters will be with dignity and decorum. Take care not to inadvertently offend anyone with a disability, especially a young man who is or is about to become a brother. Our precept of courtesy and our lessons of fidelity and toleration demand nothing less. 13

14 Any action, movement or performance, which causes laughter or snickering (whether in candidates or members) or is designed to create fear among the candidates, fails to properly convey the message of the Degrees of DeMolay. No cast member should be treated or handled in a manner which might cause injury. In accordance with Youth Protection policies and the preservation of proper modesty and dignity, all performers must wear street clothes, or, at minimum, a pair of dark shorts, under their DeMolay Degree costumes. With ladies and parents attending our degrees this practice is even more important, and in fact, essential. All elements of the degree should be designed to maintain dignity and the utmost decorum during the conferral. 25. DeMolay Robes. DeMolay robes are a part of the official regalia of the Chapter and are subject to the rules of DeMolay International. Chapters may not wear DeMolay robes in public, except at a public Installation of Officers, without written dispensation of the Executive Officer. Under no circumstances are Chapters to wear DeMolay robes in any parade, unless specifically authorized by the Executive Officer. Each Chapter may decide for itself whether robes will be worn at Stated Meetings. 26. Ritual and Regalia: Public Ceremonies. The public ceremonies of DeMolay may be presented on any appropriate occasion. Such occasions might be at a Chapter Installation of Officers, an Obligatory Day Observance, before an organization at a worship service. Care should be exercised by the Advisory Council to see that these ceremonies are not "over used" by being presented at too many functions. 27. Presentation of Ritual Work and Public Ceremonies. The Order of DeMolay is a young men's organization. It is intended that all ritual work and public ceremonies (except where specifically stated in the ceremony) should be performed by DeMolays who have not yet reached age 21. Since most Chapters do not have an Installing Team, they should consider inviting the State Master Councilor and State Councilors to handle the Installation. Advisors or Senior DeMolays should participate in the Installation only as a last resort. The Flower Talk should always be performed by an Active DeMolay. It is better to ask a young man from a neighboring Chapter to give the Flower Talk, than have it given by an Advisor or Senior DeMolay. While Advisors or Senior DeMolays are not forbidden from doing the Flower Talk or other ritual parts, this should not be done on a regular basis. Part of the growth process in DeMolay comes when a young man is provided experience performing ceremonies in front of h i s family and peers. Advisors should make use of every opportunity to help Active DeMolays develop selfconfidence and poise in the ceremonies and ritual work. The should be no open ritual books in the ceremonies of DeMolay with the exception of one prompter operating from the sidelines. 14

15 28. Past Master Councilor's Regalia. A Past Master Councilor is one who has completed a term as Master Councilor by serving until his successor has been elected and installed. The Past Master Councilor's Jewel, PMC Pin, and other regalia designed for Past Master Councilors, are items of personal jewelry. Anyone who has the right to the title is also entitled to receive, purchase, and wear the emblems of a PMC. An Advisory Council may, in accordance with DeMolay International Rules and Regulations 322.8, permit the Chapter to spend Chapter funds to purchase a PMC Jewel, pin or other appropriate award, as a gift to a retiring Past Master Councilor. (This expenditure of funds must then be approved by regular vote of the Chapter.) The Rules and Regulations specify that the jewel, pin or other token may not be awarded as a gift of the Chapter if the PMC has failed to confer the Initiatory and DeMolay Degrees from memory, at least once. This is the only control that an Advisory Council may exercise over PMC regalia. This does not prevent any Advisor or parent from purchasing or presenting such a token at an installation or Chapter meeting it only restricts the Chapter from paying for it. 29. Conferral of Honors. Honors granted by DeMolay International (Chevalier, Cross of Honor, Active and Honorary Legion of Honor) are the highest DeMolay accolades, which DeMolay members, Senior DeMolays, Master Masons, and Advisors can receive. These Honors are normally conferred at the Honors Day, usually held on the first Saturday in October. All honors conferral teams confer the work from memory. The Executive Officer may authorize conferrals at other times, as well. 30. Personal Representative. If the Grand Master of DeMolay has appointed a Personal Representative for Wisconsin, any references in the Policies and Procedures to the Executive Officer shall mean the Personal Representative appointed by the Grand Master. 31. Comments on the Policies and Procedures. Persons having comments on the Policies and Procedures are encouraged to convey them to the Executive Officer either directly or through the Deputy Executive Officer or a District Executive Officer. The Executive Officer will consider such comments and may amend the Policies and Procedures at any time. 15 Allan E. Iding Executive Officer DeMolay in Wisconsin 9212 Wilson Blvd. Wauwatosa, WI aiding@wi.rr.com