The Show with a Capital “T”

Pen show patriarch Terry Mawhorter is beloved for his two pen shows, but it is his principled nature that inspires loyalty.

- BY BARRY GABAY

Pens seem to be in Terry Mawhorter's genetics. When he mentions his hometown, Toledo, Ohio, he follows it by saying, "Home of Conklin Pen Company," an early 20th century manufacturer noted for its high quality and beautiful celluloid. [ed.: The modern-day Conklin Pen Co. is owned by Yafa Brands, Inc.]

At an early age, Terry joined Boy Scouts of America (currently known as "Scouting America"), and Scouting has remained a lifelong passion and dedication. The values he learned in Scouting have governed much of Terry's approach to life, primarily preparedness and helpfulness. After moving through the ranks, he remained active and, immediately after college graduation, became a Neighborhood Commissioner. Later, he expanded his work with Scouting and was appointed a Visiting Advisor for his area.

Terry visited troops and discussed ways they could improve. He enjoyed the interaction and seeking solutions to problems individual troops were experiencing. Studying problems and formulating solutions suited Terry's personality, as well as his college major: at his university's business school, he had focused on “Personnel,” now called Human Resources. That field was Terry's career during all of his corporate life.

The First Pens