The Art of Manliness Movember Team

The first week of Movember has come and gone. How are those mustaches coming along? The AoM Team has raised $2,466.50. Here are the top 5 team members:

Michael Miller    $ 580.00
Paul Fournier    $ 300.00
Adam Bradley    $ 200.00
Chuck Balog    $ 295.00
Ryan Gorman    $ 195.00

Our goal is to raise $10,000 by the end of the month. Please help us reach our goal by donating to the Art of Manliness Movember Team.

Support the Art of Manliness Movember Team by Buying a Copy of the Man’s Guide to the Holidays Ebook

If you’re not growing a stache, but you want to donate to the Art of Manliness Movember team, here’s an easy and fun way to help out. Starting today, we’ll donate 50% of the purchase price of every Man’s Guide to the Holidays ebook that we sell to the Art of Manliness Movember team. Click here to buy an ebook right now; you’ll get tons of manly holiday tips and you’ll help raise money for men’s health issues like prostate and testicular cancer and male depression.

Picks from the AoM Archives

The Uncle Buzz Workout: How to Get in Shape Without the Gym

Your Personal Appearance: The Importance of Being a Sharp Dressed Man

Teaching My Son to Be a Man

Around the Community This Week

Denis wants to know what you do to relieve stress when your plate is enormously full.

Killkiddo wants to hear your desert island list. You get one movie, book, album, drink, and weapon. And a volleyball, of course.

B.J. is feeling really burned out at work. Got any advice for him?

Mark started a great discussion on how to change society’s perception of men. Lots of insightful comments.

In the John Wayne Appreciation Club, Yankee Cowboy Bob shared stories of when the Duke took some bad falls while filming his movies but kept on trucking.

Clark started a discussion on how a man should wear a scarf.

Nicholas started a discussion on ways to get out of the doghouse.

Brad posed the interesting question: “How far will humans advance?” Have we hit our evolutionary peak?

Paul started a discussion on morality and deviance-are people born good or born evil?

James! wrote a great blog post about how he scared kids on Halloween.

David wrote a blog post about what it’s like in his new role as stay-at-home dad.

Herb wants to know what you want for Christmas.

Links from Around the Web

Galco’s Soda Pop Stop. If you love good soda, you’ll love this video about Galco’s Soda Pop Stop. Here’s a man who’s passionate about real soda and runs an awesome store with hundreds of interesting and unique brands and flavors. Banana soda? Cucumber soda? Awesome. (Hat tip: Andrew Barbour)

The Gentlemen’s Ten (@The Gentlemen’s Standard) In this excellent article, Glen Antoine Palmer lists the ten things he never saw his dad do, but which he is determined he’ll let his children see him do.

The Black Tie Guide. Every man is at his most dapper when he’s dressed up for a black tie affair. But do you know how to do it right? This website is the ultimate resource on everything black tie, from its history to modern and vintage styles. (Hat tip: Stephen Arksey)

Revising and Reworking a Failed Financial Plan (@ The Simple Dollar) While this post is geared towards financial plans and goals, the ideas in it are applicable to any facet of your life. When things aren’t working out for you, instead of doing more the same, take a step back and see if your approach is completely wrong.

Terry Tate: Office Linebacker This is an oldie, but a goodie. Every office needs an office linebacker. Productivity would shoot through the roof!

Always Say Your Name (@ Social Primer) A simple reminder to introduce yourself when you meet new people. Also has great advice on what to say and not say when you remember a face, but not the name.

Is Barefoot Running Really Better for You? (@ Nerd Fitness) Barefoot running seems to be all the rage right now, but is it really an improvement over running with shoes? Nerd Fitness investigates.

Fathers Gain Respect from Experts (and Mothers) (@ NY Times) It seems for the past century, dads have been portrayed and seen as inept parents. See Homer Simpson, Al Bundy, The King of Queens Guy. But parenting experts are finally giving dads their due. Experts are starting to appreciate the different parenting style dads bring to the picture. It seems fathers use discipline and play to encourage risk-taking and problem solving, both important skills in the development of a child.

Create the Perfect Mustache (@ GQ UK) A fun article for you gents growing your mo’s for Movember.

Cigarbox Nation Who would have thought there’s an entire community dedicated to the cigarbox guitar? AoM reader Shane Speal introduced me to the world of cigarbox guitars and I have to say I’m smitten with it. Definitely want to make one for myself. If you’re looking for a cheap and unique alternative to the classic guitar, check out this site.

• Weekly Link Round-Up: October 31, 2009
• Best of Art of Manliness: October 2009
• Weekly Link Round-Up: November 14, 2009
• The Art of Manliness Movember Contest 2009
• The Weekly Round-Up

Last Chance to Join the Art of Manliness Movember Team!

Movember starts on Nov. 1. So today is your last chance to sign up and join your AoM brothers in a month long effort to grow a manly stache and raise money for men’s health issues. Up for grabs is a sweet Box of Manliness, full of manly booty. There are currently 3 official AoM teams: an American team, a Canadian team and an Australian team, although you don’t have to be from any of those countries to join them. Right now we have 72 men signed up. I’d love to see the AoM Team have 100 members kicking prostate cancer’s ass.

Be sure to sign up for the Community Movember Group; Shaun Daws has been sharing news and updates and has a FAQ section to answer your queries. If you joined another Movember team but want to be included in the AoM tally, leave a link on the other teams page.

Get the Man’s Guide to the Holidays eBook

It’s Halloween today and thus the holiday season is officially upon us. Make the most out of Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the winter season by reading up on the myriad of manly tips and tricks found in our new ebook: Man’s Guide to the Holidays.

Around the Community This Week

Community Highlight of the Week: Topher White wrote a great blog post in praise of the tuxedo that covers what separates a tux from a regular black suit and how to wear one with style.

Starting off where Monday’s post on manly loyalty ended, kpeckham started a discussion on where loyalty ends. If you must choose between loyalty to a friend and loyalty to an honor code, which do you choose?

Bryan wants to know what helps you get out of bed in the morning, especially in the winter.

Ray is looking for suggestions on how to get a kid who doesn’t like being active up and moving.

Killkiddo is looking for suggestions on strong and manly names for a son.

John started a discussion about the US military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy.

Yankee Cowboy Bob asked, “What would cause you to look down on someone and consider him less of a man? Or, what have you done for which other people have looked down on you?”

Joseph wants some ideas on how to take one’s political beliefs and turn them into real action.

Mike started a discussion about the way a boy’s natural instinct to fight has been suppressed.

Preston made a list of the things he’s done and will do to become more self-reliant. What have you done?

General Interest Links

Check out one of my new favorite blogs: Nerd Fitness. Steve Kamb presents solid health and  fitness advice for average joes in a way that’s accessible and humorous. A great site.

Build Self-Confidence Like a Leader (@ harvard business publishing) We’ll all serve in some sort of leadership position at some point in our lives. Marshall Goldsmith provides five tips on how you can develop the self-confidence you need to lead others. My favorite tip: Don’t worry about being perfect.

Classic Cinema Online This site is amazing. You can watch old movies for FREE right on your computer. Ever wanted to watch Mr. Smith Goes to Washington? Here you go. Like old Westerns? They have 83 of them you can watch right here.

Men and Women of Industry I stumbled across this cool style blog. I’m totally digging the Game Warden Look. Reminds me of my grandpa.

• Best of Art of Manliness: October 2009
• The Art of Manliness Weekly Round-up: November 7, 2009
• Weekly Link Round-Up: November 14, 2009
• The Art of Manliness: Best of July 2009
• The Art of Manliness Movember Contest 2009

The Art of Manliness Book Now Available on Kindle

For you futuristic fellows who have no patience for old school paper and ink, the Art of Manliness book in now available on the Kindle.

Support the Art of Manliness Book

If you enjoy the Art of Manliness blog, please help a brother out by getting the word out about the Art of Manliness book. Let’s spread the manliness from coast to coast. Here are some ways to lend a hand:

• Ask your local bookstore to carry The Art of Manliness book.
• If you have a blog, write about the book.
• If you enjoyed the book, write a review of the book on Amazon.com.
• Add an overlay to your Twitter avatar to help support the book.

Around the Community This Week

Andrew sets out 10 guidelines for having a proper debate or agrument.

Brian wants to start a weekly “Gentlemen’s Night.” Do you have a weekly night where you get together with your buds? Got any tips for one?

Tim’s going camping and he wants to hear your sugestions for great camping meals.

Jack is looking for advice on how to overcome one’s insecurities.

Preston wants to hear about the fears you have faced or need to face.

Sarge wants to know what “simple living” means to you.

Jack is looking for good books for a man to read before he turns 21.

Kyle wrote a blog post about seizing the day and bettering yourself.

David wrote a blog post reflecting on how to teach respect for authority to his son.

Yankee Cowboy Bob wrote about why he’s a flaming liberal when it comes to gentlemanliness. He’ll explain.

Picks from the Art of Manliness Archives

The 35 Greatest Speeches in History

10 Manly Feats of Strength

How to Pack a Bag When Traveling

General Interest Links

3 Men Who Died From Shaving (@ mental_floss) This is a guest post we wrote at mental_floss on men who have died from shaving.

Wedding Ring Debt (@ frugal dad) What advice would you give this young man on whether he should go into more debt to pay for the wedding rings?

Anvil Shooting (@ you tube) Some middle aged guy in Missouri packs gunpowder into 100 pound anvils and shoots them off 200 feet into the air. Hey, it takes all kinds.

6 Things You Can Do Today to Change Your Child’s Life (@ zen family habits) Being a great dad doesn’t take much. Just a bit of time. Here are 6 easy things you can do to be a better parent today.

Square America Lots of great vintage images here. You’ll seriously spend hours on this site looking at them all.

The Impossible Cool Another site with lots of cool vintage images. Take a look.

The History of Football Helmets Really cool site where you can see the evolution of college and professional football helmet designs.

• The Weekly Link Round-Up: October 17, 2009
• Weekly Link Round-Up: November 14, 2009
• Weekly Link Round-Up: September 19, 2009
• The Art of Manliness Weekly Link Round-Up: Help an AoM Reader Get on Mad Men Edition
• Best of Art of Manliness: September 2009

Signed Copies of the Art of Manliness Book

You can now order signed copies of the new Art of Manliness book through our site. Even if you’re not hankering for our John Hancocks, if you reside in a far flung place of the world where the book is not yet available, this is a great way of getting your hands on a copy. See this page for details.

New Prize Added to the Art of Manliness Community

As you may or may not be aware, by participating in the Community you earn manliness points that can be redeemed for prizes. Since the huhman has captured our then highest prize, a Hawaiiabera shirt, by earning 4,000 points, we’ve added another golden ring for members to aim for. The fine men at the Mountain and Sackett tie company, the makers of the world’s only 100% handmade regimental tie, have graciously donated their handsome ties to the cause. The first 5 men who earn 10,000 points will be richly rewarded with a Mountain and Sackett tie.

As a side note, Mountain and Sackett will be doing another giveaway with us in November. So stay tuned!

Around the Community This Week

Community Highlight of the Week: Philip Rodney Moon wrote a great blog post about “The Five Acquaintances Every Man Should Have.” Do you have these important men in your network?

William would like to hear from members of the military and the family of military members about ways we can help support the troops.

Bryan is looking for advice on how to respectfully resign a leadership position.

Jeff is looking for tips on how to craft an effective elevator pitch.

Yankee Cowboy Bob wants to know why a man should keep a journal.

SamwiseGrangee started a discussion on why listening to and understanding classical music is important and asked for feedback on readers’ favorite composers.

Jamie started a discussion on public education versus alternatives like private school and home schooling.

Scott started a discussion on taking an interest in one’s ancestry and is looking for tips on how to do genealogical work.

Nathan wrote a blog post about how starting a blog where he posts 10 things he’s thankful for every day helped alleivate his depression. It’s an awesome idea, and you can check out his blog here.

Behold the most important painting in the world! In James!’ world at least.

General Interest Links

Zen Family Habits. Leo Babauta, the man behind the popular blog Zen Habits, has recently started a site dedicated to helping people simplify family life and improve family relationships. If you’re a dad, check out Zen Family Habits and subscribe.

Militaryboots.com is holding a contest to find the world’s most battered, tattered, worn-out pair of boots. Participants must submit a photo of their boots and a story of where their boots have been. The winner gets a lifetime supply of boots. (Hat tip to Dan O’Connell)

Woodworking Magazine held a contest where they asked readers to turn an Altoids can into a working tool. The results are pretty cool and interesting. (Hat tip to roadbelow)

50 Rules to Being a Gentleman (@ king mag) One website’s take on the rules every gentleman should follow.

18 Minute Plan to Managing Your Day (@ harvard business publishing) Looking to get more done during your day? Take the advice of consultant Peter Bregman and start a daily planning ritual. The kicker is you don’t need to spend an hour or even thirty minutes planning. 18 minutes spread throughout the day will do the trick.

• Mountain and Sackett Tie Giveaway: November 2009
• Weekly Link Round-Up: October 31, 2009
• Weekly Round-Up: New Redesign Edition
• Announcing the Winner of the Mountain and Sackett Authentic Regimental Tie Giveaway
• The Art of Manliness Weekly Round-Up: The Community Edition

Fall is in full swing here in Vermont. The fall foliage has almost reached its peak. Kate and I have climbed several mountains in the past few weeks in order to enjoy this spectacular display of nature’s splendor.

The biggest event in September here on the blog was the start of the Art of Manliness Podcast. We’ve received very positive responses so far to this new aspect of the site. Over 8,500 of you have subscribed to the show via iTunes. Thanks for the encouragement and feedback. I’m still pretty green behind the ears, but I’ll be trying to improve each week.

October will be a very exciting month for the Art of Manliness. The Art of Manliness book will be launching this Monday, and we have some cool stuff lined up for that day. Kate and I have been working on the book for over a  year, and we’d love to see it be a monster success and put manliness on the map! Please check back on Monday for more info about the book. Hopefully, what you’ll see will motivate you to go out and buy it!

Wolverine 1,000 Mile Boot Giveaway

Last week we ran a fun giveaway for a pair of Wolverine 1,000 Mile boots. Over 1,000 of you left a comment to enter. We had a good time reading them, well, maybe not the 6 mentions of the lyrics to a certain Proclaimers song. Unfortunately, there could only be one winner, and that lucky man is Jack Wapner. Congratulations, Jack! We hope you enjoy taking your Wolverine 1,000 Mile boots on many adventures.

September’s Most Popular Posts

Every Man Should Be Able to Save His Own Life

How to Unclog a Toilet

The Different Types of Manliness

Dealing with Male Depression

How to Be a Hobo

The Community

The blog isn’t the only part of the Art of Manliness site. If you’d like to connect with other men who are interested in rediscovering the lost art of manliness, make sure to join the Community. We have nearly 5,000 registered members from all over the world. In the Community, you can share manly pics, write a blog post about a manly skill, or take part in one of the hundreds of discussions going on.

Art of Manliness T-shirts

Show off your Art of Manliness pride with one of our 6 manly t-shirts from TankFarm Clothing.

Subscribe

You can subscribe to The Art of Manliness by the following methods:

Join over 23,000 people who receive The Art of Manliness via email by supplying your address.

Enter your email address:

Make sure you confirm your email subscription by answering the confirmation email you get after signing up.

You can also subscribe through RSS.

Every subscriber gets access to our popular Guide to Being a Gentleman eBook.

Be sure to follow Art of Manliness on Twitter. Each day we provide inspiring manly quotes and cool man trivia.

• The Best of Art of Manliness: August 2009
• The Art of Manliness: Best of July 2009
• Best of Art of Manliness: October 2009
• The Best of Art of Manliness: May 2009
• A Good Boot: The Wolverine 1,000 Mile Boot Giveaway

Art of Manliness Contests

With 1,043 comments already, readers are clearly pretty fired up about getting their hands on a pair of Wolverine 1,000 Mile Boots. Who will be the lucky man to bring these sweet puppies home? Get out your rabbit’s foot and be sure to enter if you haven’t already by leaving a comment about where you’d wear these boots, emailing a friend about the contest, or joining the Community Boot Group. The deadline to enter is Monday at 11 pm EST. In the meantime, check out some of the entries to the contest; many are quite humorous and creative.

Art of Manliness Offers

El Grande Kahuna, friend of AoM and maker of the awesomely manly Hawaiiaberra shirt, is offering a new special to Art of Manliness readers. You can now get the original Hawaiiabera shirt, which are normally 64.95 for only $24.95! Hot dang that’s a good deal. Just enter this code when you check out: AOM. If you’ve been on the fence about buying one of these manly shirts, now’s the time to do it.

General Interest Links

Knots and Knotting (@ international guild of knots) Once you’ve mastered the 7 knots every man should know, check out this site and start learning even more complicated and interesting knots. Many of the knots on this site are decorative. Who knew knot tying could be an art?

How Can I Make Preparing for a Baby Less Expensive (@ one caveman’s financial journey) Preparing to welcome home a baby? This article from a guy who calls himself the “caveman” offers 8 tips on how you can save money on your bundle of joy. For example, don’t buy one of those $40 diaper Genies. It’s just an overpriced waste basket.

10 Life and Money Lessons From Immigrant Parents (@ wise bread) A lot of our grandparents and great grandparents were immigrants. They had to stretch every dime in order to make it in their new country. Here are 10 life lessons we can all take from them.

Around the Community This Week

Community Highlight of the Week: If you were inspired this week by our podcast on the Band of Brothers, you should know that one of the legendary men of Easy Company  passed away this summer: Darrell “Shifty” Powers. Shifty was featured in the HBO series “Band of Brothers.” Community member Asa McGuire shared an email that’s been passed around the internet about an encounter a man named Mark Pfiefer had with Shifty and the great shame it is that people like Michael Jackson are given national memorial services, but the deaths of real heroes go unsung. Here’s our little bit to remedy that. RIP Shifty.

Darrell Powers

13 March 1923 – 17 June 2009

Forum

Christian is thinking of joining the National Guard. Got any advice for him?

Steve wants to participate in a triathlon. Do have any advice on training, preparation, and mental preparedness?

Jamie wants to know: “Who ARE you?

Sept. 23 officially left us with 100 days left in this year. David wants to know what you’re going to do to finish 2009 well.

While losing one’s job can be a real bummer, some men can turn unemployment into an opportunity to start a business. That’s what happened to Mike, and he wants to hear your stories of unemployment and entrepreneurship.

Peter wants to learn how to surf, but alas, he lives in Canada. Where is a good place to learn the sport? Have you been to a surf school or surf camp that you can recommend?

Blake is looking for advice on what to pack for a ski trip.

Terry recently lost his father. He’s looking for other men who have lost their fathers to share their feelings about losing their model of manhood.

Groups

Michael started a new group, Veterans of Desert Storm/Shield.

In the PhotoGroup, Mark started a discussion on films and other media about photographers and photography.

In the James Bond Appreciation Club, Jamie asked, “Who would YOU cast as the next James Bond?”

In Heavy Metal Fans, Justyn asked, “How important are lyrics in black or death metal?”

In AoM Audiophiles, Michael started a discussion on headphones.

In the Real Shaving Group, Amateur Adventurer asked for advice on where to buy shaving supplies.

In the Man Bags Group, Robert started a discussion about taking care of your man bag.

In the Manly Character Group, Herb wants to hear about good comebacks from great men.

Blog Posts

Todd wrote a post about the unfortunate way we’ve destigmatized stupidity.

Andy wrote a post about the passing of a great man you’ve probably never heard of: Norman Borlaug.

The huhman presented one side of the health care debate and Topher presented another. And Amateur Adventurer argued that health care is not a human right.

Symplectic made a detailed proposal for a new third party: the Farewell Party.

The Yankee Cowboy wrote a post about how you present yourself to others.

• The Weekly Round-Up: September 12, 2009
• The Weekly Round-Up
• Weekly Link Round-Up: September 19, 2009
• Art of Manliness Weekly Link Roundup: 10 Year Reunion Edition
• Weekly Link Round-Up: October 31, 2009

Picks from the Art of Manliness Archives

Lessons in Manliness: Theodore Roosevelt and the Spanish-American War

Do More Than One Stinking Pull-Up

Are the Suburbs Killing Your Manhood?

General Interest Links

100 Things to Do During a Money Free Weekend (@ the simple dollar) We’re all trying to stretch our money further these days. Trent at The Simple Dollar came up with the idea of having “money free weekends.” Basically, you pick one or two weekends a month where you spend absolutely no money. In this article, he gives 100 suggestions of things you can do during a money free weekend.

High Five Nation (@NYT). This is one of the best things I’ve read in awhile. Columinst David Brooks talks about the humility of the World War II generation and how that culture of humility has ebbed away.

Stache Bash.Do you live in the St. Louis area? Do you have a mustache or wish you did? Do you listen to John Oates on your ipod 25 times a day? Then you better makes plans to attend the Stache Bash put on by the American Mustache Institute, the institute that makes all other institutes look like gatherings of sissy schoolgirls.

30 Days to a Better Parent. Over at the Dad of Divas blog, they’re running a 30 Days to a Better Parent series. They’re a week into a the project, but I think it would be easy to catch up. If you’re a dad, I highly recommend taking part.

Tyler Durden’s Guide To Personal Finance (@ man vs. debt) I love the movie Fight Club, so I was happy to see Man vs. Debt extrapolate personal finances lessons from the film. Remember, you are not your khakis.

Car Manuals for Old Cars | The Old Car Manual Project Do you have an old car you’re working or or restoring, but are missing the owner’s manual for it? Check out the Old Car Manual Project. They scan and catalog owner’s manuals for cars going all the way back to the 1920s. Even if you don’t own an old car, it’s fun to check out this interesting piece of history.

A Nation of Wimps (@ psychology today) A great article on how we’re sanitizing childhood and raising less resilient kids. We wrote about not coddling your kids a while back ago and it generated a lot of discussion. Do you agree with the Psychology Today article? Are we raising a Nation of Wimps?

Around the Community This Week

If you haven’t yet, make sure to join over 4,500 manly men in the AoM Community.

Forum

Is intoxication ever an excuse for your behavior?

What is the proper protocol when dating more than one woman?

Johnathan started a discussion on “moments of manhood.” When did you transition from being a boy to being a man?

Dave asked for advice on how to do a written budget.

Amateur Adventurer started a discussion about political correctness.

Mike started a discussion about Kayne West’s jackassery and about other examples of jackassery.

Trey started a discussion about what he feels is the discouraging direction the country is going.

The huhman started a discussion about why men hate going to weddings.

Asa started a discussion about manly tv icons.

Groups

In one of our newer groups, Men of the Dutch Oven, Robert started a discussion on what kind of cast iron cooking gear you own.

In AoM Do It Yourself-ers, James shared a great list of websites where you can get DIY project ideas.

In the Philosopher’s Group, Shaun is looking for a group mottoand wonders “Who is the manliest philopsher?”

In the Writers Group, Topher wants to know what inspires your writing.

In the Evangelists of Manliness Group, I talked about supporting the Art of Manliness by becoming a fan of it on Facebook.

In the Exercise Group, Mark is looking for advice on losing the middle aged gut.

In the Men in the Kitchen, Mike bought up the fact that breakfast has always been thought of as the man’s meal and wants to know what you eat to kick start your day.

In the AoM Boxers, Adam wants to know your thoughts on tonight’s fight betweenMayweather and Marquez.

In the 21rst Century Gentlemen Group, Ricky is looking for modern day examples of 21rst C.G.

Blog Posts

Mike Norris wrote posts on how to make an Old Fashioned cocktail and how to open a bottle of champagne with a saber.

Robert wrote an excellent post about the relationship between warriors and art.

Sam wrote a post about the actor Sterling Hayden.

• The Weekly Round-Up
• The Weekly Round-Up: September 12, 2009
• The Weekly Link Round-Up: September 26, 2009
• The Art of Manliness Weekly Link Round-Up: Help an AoM Reader Get on Mad Men Edition
• Weekly Link Round-up: Week 4 of the 30 Days to a Better Man Challenge

Hutch Returns!

Some of you may remember that AoM’s contributing writer and resident adventurer Chris Hutcheson had planned to scale Mt. Kilimanjaro and help raise money for Childreach International. Well Hutch is back from Africa and reports that while it was the hardest thing he’s ever done, it was awesome and worth it. And as promised, Hutch flashed some Art of Manliness pride at the summit:

Hutch also went on a photographic safari while in Africa. While driving in their Land Cruiser, a large male elephant came up and bumped the side of the car with its tusks. Awesome.

Hutch said he got lots of ideas for AoM articles from his travels, and we can all look forward to seeing them on the site. Welcome home Hutch!

Picks from the Art of Manliness Archives

How to Leave the Perfect Voicemail

When Is It Okay for a Man to Cry?

10 Outdated Men’s Fashions That Still Have the Charm

The Community Round-Up

Community highlight of the week: The Community Round-Up involves a lot of links, and I didn’t want one of them to get lost. James! posted an amazing comic, “The Killing Jar“, that deserves a lot of attention. Thoughtful and powerful. Check it out.

The Forum

Video Games: Yes or No?

Complete this sentence: “Being a gentleman means….”

What are some manly haircuts?

Is there a need for alpha males in today’s society?

Todd started a discussion about your morning routine.

Yankee Cowboy started a discussion on the ways a man builds his reputation.

Danny started a discussion on the walking stick. Do you carry one? Would you ever?

Jeff started a discussion on having kids. Does the good outweigh the annoyances or vice versa?

Jamie started a discussion about how you personalize your work space.

Groups

In the Geeks Group, Arnold started a discussion on the ipod versus the Zune.

In the Travel Group, Peter made a case for why every man should visit Africa.

In the Real Shaving Group, symplectic describes the best shave of his life.

The Philosopher’s Group discussed:

Would the world be better or worse off without religion?

What if God showed up one day?

Blog Posts

Sam wrote a post about Roy Chapman Andrews.

Yankee Cowboy wrote a post about showing manly confidence.

Haymond wrote a post about why he avoids watching television news.

Edmund wrote a post on true leadership and the difference between bosses, managers, supervisors, and real leaders.

• The Weekly Round-Up
• The Weekly Link Round-Up: September 26, 2009
• Weekly Link Round-Up: September 19, 2009
• Weekly Link Round-Up: October 31, 2009
• Art of Manliness Weekly Link Roundup: 10 Year Reunion Edition

Art of Manliness Contests

Congratulations to Daniel Fryar from Colorado and David Jones from Wisconsin for winning the Retribing Giveaway. If you didn’t win, consider picking up a copy of Retribing to help teach a young man you know about the importance of mentorship.

Picks from the Art of Manliness Archives

If you’re new to the site, you’ve missed out on more than a year and half of manliness here at AoM. We have a lot of gems in the archives waiting to be discovered, so I thought I’d start pulling out a few every week to see the light of day.

So You Want to Become a Man

How to Snag a Souvenir Baseball

10 Ways to be a Gentleman at the Gym

Community Round-Up

The Forum

Dave started a great discussion on the attributes of our fathers and grandfathers that we want to emulate and their pitfalls that we want to avoid.

If you could sit down with 5 men, dead or alive, and talk the night away, who would you choose? A great discussion started by Ryan.

Asa is looking for advice on how to give the birds and the bees talk to his son.

Ryan posed the question, “What is patriotism?”

Robert made a list of 10 Manly Charities.

The Yankee Cowboy muses about having old possessions that are hard to throw away.

Caleb needs advice on how to quit smoking.

Thad posed this question, “Has the recession stopped you from going to the barber?”

Romance in the workplace….yay or nay?

Mike started a discussion about the tv show Mad Men. Are you a fan?

Groups

In the Men in the Kitchen Group, Shaun wants to hear about your favorite cooking shows.

In the Book Group, Topher started a discussion about manly characters in literature, and I started a discussion about reading through the great books series.

In the the Beer Appreciation Soceity, Zach asked about your experience with mixing beers.

In the Man Bags Group, Johnathan offers tips on how to pack lightly.

In the Manly Dads Group, Topher started a discussion on dealing with tough dad moments, like telling your kid that the dog died.

In the PhotoGroup, James started a discussion about what cameras you own. And the huhman inquired about how much old cameras were worth.

In the Film Group, Andrew started a discussion on the most overrated movies of all time and James! gave his review of the new flick Inglorious Basterds.

In the Philosophers Group, Shaun posed these questions:

Is it better to get married or stay a bachelor?

When is it okay to use violence?

Blog Posts

David wrote a blog post in which he shared 5 ideas for how to approach issues of our government and politics.

James! wrote a post about his gym.

• Weekly Round-Up: New Redesign Edition
• Weekly Link Round-Up: September 19, 2009
• The Weekly Round-Up: September 12, 2009
• The Weekly Link Round-Up: September 26, 2009
• Weekly Link Round: Week 3 of 30 Days to a Better Man

I’d like to devote this edition of the round-up to one of the features of the Art of Manliness Community: Groups. The Community allows you to create and join groups that revolve around a certain specific interest. Within the group you can join like-minded men to discuss a common interest or theme, pose questions, and offer advice. There are over 200 groups in the Community currently. Below you’ll find a list of some of them; be sure to check out the Groups page to find many more!

Manliness

Evangelists of Manliness

Growing in Manliness

21rst Century Gentlemen

Manly Men of Color

Arts and Culture

Film

Book Group

AoM Audiophiles

AoM PhotoGroup

Musicians

Classical Music Fans

Food and Drink

Manly Art of Baking

The Manly Cup of Tea

Men in the Kitchen

Cocktail Appreciation Society

The Manly Art of Coffee

Beer Appreciation Society

Scotch Connoisseurs

Home Brewing

Dress and Grooming

Sartorialists

Real Shaving

Men with Beards

Manly Hats!

Dandyism

Family and Relationships

Manly Dads

Family Man

Romancers

Chivalry

The Man and the Woman

Professions

Ars Medica

Teachers and Educators

Graphic Design

The Armed Forces

Oilfield Warriors

Writers

Actors

Media

Business Owners/Entrepreneurs

Lawyers and Law Students

Age

Gentlemen Under 18

Men Over 50

College Gentlemen

Generation X

Religion and Philosophy

Christian Men

Catholic Men

LDS Men

Jewish Menschen

The Philosophers

Putting the Man in Humanist

Gentlemen Atheists

Sports and Fitness

AoM Boxers

Runners

Exercise

Martial Arts

Fishermen

Parkour

Baseball

Rugby

Football

Velo Men

Geographic Location

Join a group from your home state (there are also groups for specific cities) and plan a meet-up to get together in the flesh……

The States

Alaska

Arizona

California

Colorado

Hawaii

Idaho

Illinois

Indiana

Kentucky

Maine

Massachusetts

Michigan

Minnesota

Nebraska

New Hampshire

North Carolina

North Dakota

Ohio

Oklahoma

Oregon

Pennsylvania

South Carolina

Tennessee

Texas

Virginia

Washington Men

Wisconsin

International

Manliness in the UK

Australian Gentlemen

South American Gentleman’s Soceity

Canada

• Weekly Round-Up: New Redesign Edition
• The Weekly Round-Up: September 12, 2009
• Join the New Art of Manliness Community
• The Weekly Round-Up
• Weekly Link Round-Up: September 19, 2009

Art of Manliness Contests

Last week we ran the Beau Ties Ltd. of Vermont bow tie giveaway. It looks like the bow tie might be coming back in style because there were over 600 of you who entered to win one. Well, we randomly selected a person from the the list of comments and the lucky winner is: Scott Shields. Congratulations Scott! You’ll definitely be looking dapper with your new bow tie. Those of you who didn’t win, but entered, never fret. You’re not walking away empty handed. The gents at Beau Ties Ltd. of Vermont have sent you an email with a 20% discount code. Enjoy!

Art of Manliness T-Shirts

As you may be aware, awhile ago AoM teamed up with Tankfarm Clothing to produce a line of sweet Art of Manliness t-shirts. By popular demand, another color has been added to the line-up. The Bull Moose flag tee can now be had in both white and black. Bully!

Around the Community This Week

The big news out of the Community this week is that thehuhman became the first member to pass the 4,000 man point mark and earned himself a free Hawaiiabera shirt. For those of you aren’t a part of the Community, members can earn “man points” by participating. You earn points for posting to the forum, leaving comments for others, uploading videos and photos, and creating groups and events. When you earn 1,000 points you’re eligible for a free AoM T-shirt. When you earn 4,000 points, you’re eligible for the Hawaiiabera shirt. Thehuhman is prolific in the community. He’s done a fantastic job of making everyone feel welcome. The community would not be the same without him. So thanks huhman for all your contributions!

Also, I’d like to thank El Grande Kahuna from Hawaiiabera for sponsoring the free shirts for our super community members. We really appreciate it. In honor of thehuhman earning the first Hawaiiabera, El Grande Kahuna is giving  an exclusive discount code to Art of Manliness subscribers. The code will get you an awesome Hawaiiabera for $39.95 plus FREE shipping. Pretty dang cool. In order to get the code, you must subscribe by RSS or email. The discount code will be at the bottom of the RSS post or email.

In addition to thehuhman kicking butt and taking names in the Community, we had another active week full of great discussions and interesting media uploads related to all things manly. Let’s take a look at some of them.

Johan Henningsson put together an epic video tribute to great men set to music and the recitation of “If” by Rudyard Kipling. Very touching and inspiring.

Find more videos like this on Art of Manliness

I’m thinking of starting a podcast. Leave some feedback if you’re interested about what you’d want to hear.

Symplectic wrote an excellent essay about the difference between American men and Australian men and why the need for American men to feel cool gets in the way of their manhood.

Haymond Lam posted a great original poem called “When We Were Kids.”

Thomas White muses on the decline in craftsmanship.

Robert Disque wrote an interesting post about Military Music Traditions.

Peter Sawyer started the AoM Fitness Experiment where he’s encouraging you to share your nutrition and fitness goals and check in every day to keep yourself accountable.

Mark Gilford added several videos about the Mankind Project. If that’s something you’re interested in, check them out.

Ian Dundrillion has added a second album to his Beard Archive. Also, make sure to check out his Mustache Archive (part II).

Robert Black asks the Men in the Kitchen Group for tips for a beginning cook.

Shaun Daws asks in the Philosophers Group:

What is the measure of success?

Is patriotism/nationalism in decline?

Bren Denis Aman wants to know your best home remedies.

Football season is right around the corner, so it’s only natural that the Football Group would be discussing Fantasy Football.

Matt Warnock asks  the Film Group about what are your 10 “must see” movies?

Kevin D. Wolski asks the Book Group for their recommendations on graphic novels.

After watching I Love You Man, Nicholas Boylan was inspired to start seeking some new man friends. What advice would you give him?

Mike Norris shared his advice on how to shake hands like a man.

Leo M. Mulvihill has written an excellent series of articles about suits and dressing well. Be sure to check out his tips on:

The Difference Between Canvassed and Fused Suits

Fitting and Altering a Suit

Basic Suit Colors for an Interview Suit

Suit Buttons

Quality Men’s Shoes

Finally, Ryan started quite possibly the most awesome discussion thread in the history of the community: Time to man up- what would you pick when the zombies come. When the zombie hoards come what would be your 1) main weapon, 2) back up weapon, 3) third weapon, 4) vehicle, 5) person to repopulate earth with or watch your back, 6) theme song, 7) battle cry, and book.

• The Art of Manliness Weekly Roundup: Graduated Law School Edition
• Join the New Art of Manliness Community
• The Weekly Link Round-Up: October 17, 2009
• The Original Hawaiiabera Giveaway
• Reminder and Update: Enter A Tailored Suit Custom Dress Shirt Giveaway and Get a 20% Discount

This week we announced the release of the 30 Days to a Better Man eBook. Thanks to everyone who’s bought one so far. If you’d like to be able to print off and read our popular 30 Days to a Better Man series in an easy to read PDF, click here and download it. For just $2.50, you’ll get a 90 page book with text and worksheets designed to make you a better man.

Art of Manliness Contests

The Beau Ties Ltd of Vermont Giveaway. If you need any proof that the bow tie enjoys a wider audience than nerds and professors, behold the 552 and counting comments on this giveaway. The bowtie is back baby. The contest ends on Monday, so enter today. Everyone who enters will be emailed a discount for 20% off a purchase from Beau Ties Ltd.

Around the Community This Week

A central aspect of the Art of Manliness Community is the opportunity it gives men to offer and receive advice from other men. Maybe you have some life experiences that could help another man who is struggling in a certain area or about to embark on a new venture. There were a lot of questions put out there this week from men looking for wisdom from the collective man mind, so I decided to devote this week’s round-up to them. What advice would you give to a man that:

• Is starting a new phase of his life and is about to join the NROTC and begin his life at college?
• Feels stuck in a rut?
• Is trying to decide what kind of military or law enforcement job he should pursue after college?
• Has moved to a city and is looking for inexpensive ways to make  friends and meet new people?
• Wants to be more bold and confident?
• Wants to buckle down but feels like his head is in the clouds?
• Has trouble getting motivated to study for classes?
• Wants to grow a manly beard?
• Wants to dress appropriately for a company event?
• Is looking for ways for dad to be involved with feeding a baby?
• Is looking for advice and support in losing a loved one?

Links From Around the Web

Six Supposedly Feminine Skills That Every Man Should Master (@ primer) Specialization is for insects. A man should know how to do anything and everything, even skills traditionally associated with women. Primer takes a look at six of these supposed feminnine skills that every functioning adult male should know how to do.

Ode to Grandparents (@ code name insight) Did your grandparents pass on useful skills to you? Code Name Insight makes a list of valuable skills he learned from his grandparents. They include things like shooting a gun, enjoying the wilderness, and not letting food scraps go to waste.

Simple Ways to Cool Your Home and Save Big (@ mother earth news) Looking to cut down on energy costs this summer? Check out these easy tips you can implement today.

Top Ten Lessons from the U.S. Navy: What entrepreneurs and executives can learn from sailors (@ usni)  A nice write up on the lessons a man can glean from how the navy operates it’s aircraft carriers. My favorite: Accountability and Continuous Improvement.

• Mountain and Sackett Tie Giveaway: November 2009
• The Art of Manliness Weekly Roundup: Man Cookbook Edition
• Outback Steakhouse Gift Certificate Giveaway Winner!
• The Weekly Link Round-Up: September 26, 2009
• Art of Manliness Weekly Round-Up

Long time AoM reader Leo M. Mulvihill has a chance to score a walk on role to the AMC series Mad Men. But he needs our help. Click here and give him 5 stars. You can vote once a day until August 11. So vote early and often. I think it would be pretty dang cool if we can help Leo win this. Just look at him! He looks like he just walked out of 1960.

Speaking of Mad Men, I’m a fan of the show. The costuming and sets are fantastic and the writing is killer. The characters on the show are a reminder of what happens when manliness turns into prickishness. While it’s okay to imitate the style and swagger of the men at Sterling Cooper, don’t imitate their character.

Links From Around the Web

Mad Men Yourself.com Alright, I promise this will be the last Mad Men reference today (I promise they’re not paying me a dime-I just like the show). To promote the new season, AMC has created Mad Men Yourself.com. You can create a swanky little avatar for your Facebook profile. Nothing really useful, but fun to do if you’re just mindlessly surfing the web.

Why men in ads are dumb, goofy, or completely inept (hat tip to Jack Donovan) The depiction of men in the media is a disgrace. They’re always stupid or childish and women are always smart, mature, and rolling their eyes at their idiot husbands. This article in the Globe and Mail investigates why advertisers do this and shows that maybe it’s not working they way they thought it would.

Victory Mail of the Second World War (@ a continuous lean) I enjoy studying World War II,  and I love learning new details about life during this pivotal time in history. That’s why I was stoked to find this article about Victory Mail in my feed reader from A Continuous Lean. Learn how the army handled the huge influx of mail from soldiers’ families. Very cool.

Money Rule #8: Take Care of Your Things (@ the simple dollar) Trent at The Simple Dollar continues his series on money rules to live by. This week’s rule is to take care of your things. Be like grandpa: use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without.

Around the Community This Week

Will started a discussion on how to promote clear and intelligent rhetoric, a skill that has obviously stopped being taught to people in our modern age. Which prompted Will to pose another question, “What should we be teaching in schools?”

Manley is looking for good, non-mainstream, manly music that can be downloaded for free.

Brian started a discussion on the merits of using credit cards versus cash. Which do you prefer?

Peter wants to make an effective but cheap and simple home gym. What kinds of things should he build and buy?

Nick wants to know your thoughts on wearing  a hat with long hair. Yay or nay?

I asked about your first shave. Like me, many men hid the fact that they started shaving from their parents. None of us know why we did.

Robot Fighter lives in Britain but has a hankering for American cereals. His friend can bring him back some of our tasty boxes of breakfast goodness. Which do you recommend?

Ian Dundrillon has started the Art of Manliness Beard and Mustache Society photo album. If you have a beard or a mustache, add your ugly mug to the album.

In the Philosopher’s Group, Shaun posted some new questions:

Physical characteristics aside, can men be distinguished from women?

Devil’s Advocate #2: A hypothetical religious man feels it is his duty to steer people from their erroneous beliefs in order to save their immortal soul. What is your opinion of this man and his mission?

In the Men with Beards Group, Brad started a discussion about the trials and troubles of beards. Why do people make such a big deal out of a very natural thing?

In the Men in the Kitchen Group, Shaun wants to hear what’s for dinner tonight.

The Football Group has started a fantasy football league. Join up!

In the Book Group, Peter started a discussion on the best books written in the last 10 years.

In the Putting the Man in Humanist Group, Jeff started a discussion on the positive attributes of the world’s religions.

In the Romancers Group, Ian is looking for advice on writing a killer love letter.

Joseph wrote a blog post on whether healthcare should be a for profit venture.

Symplectic wrote a blog post on the value of a college education. Is it really all it’s cracked up to be?

Andrew wrote a sweet poem called “The Man.”

• Weekly Link Round-Up: September 19, 2009
• The Weekly Round-Up
• The Weekly Round-Up: September 12, 2009
• Growing a Manly Beard
• The Art of Manliness Weekly Roundup: Graduated Law School Edition

Last night was Kate’s ten year high school reunion. It was at the Oklahoma Aquarium. There was food, drinking, dancing, and some badass sharks. Kate was in charge of putting it on and she did a bang up job. Everyone had a great time and I’m really proud of her.

Let’s take a look at some links.

General Interest Links

Once Upon a Time, A Real Leading Man (@NYT). There’s a Cary Grant film festival going on in NYC, and this article talks about how they just don’t make movie stars like Grant anymore. “Kael noted in 1975, during his lifetime, that it was impossible to imagine Grant in the macho action and crime films that were beginning to dominate Hollywood. It’s equally impossible to imagine him in the soggy, misogynistic, stealth-macho geekfests that pass for romantic comedy now. Watching him is to be reminded of a time when intelligence, grace and self-containment were their own rewards. The 21st century, so far, hasn’t deserved him.”

Masculinity’s Delayed Adolescence (@The Culture Warf). By comparing the metaphorical adolescence that men seem to be stuck in today with actual adolescence, Matt Higgins develops an interesting analogy to explain the current state of men. Do men need a Masculinism movement like the Feminism movement?

Around the Community This Week

Manley (Yup, that’s his real name) started a discussion on where you go to get away from it all, to find solitude and sanctuary.

Our resident adventurer, Chris Hutcheson, so identified with the Rudyard Kipling poem If, that he got an If tattoo on his arm. Check out the sweet pic.

Woody is taking the plunge into house buying and is looking for advice from those who have gone through this process.

Brian makes a case for bringing the vest back into fashion. Are you in?

Gryphon shared his tips on how to save and handle money responsibly. Add your own tips to the discussion.

Andy started a discussion on a manly skill we don’t think of very often: accepting generosity.

Cowboy Bob wrote a blog post about dealing with depression.

In the Manly Camping Group, the Conochokid wants to know if there are other men in the Community who are into primitive or survival camping.

In the Baseball Group, John started a discussion about the trade deadline.

And as always, don’t forget to check into the Philosopher’s Group for great questions posted by Shaun like:

Is killing in self-defense morally permissible?

Should the West be doing more to help the Third World?

Shaun has also started a new series called “Fix This,” where he poses a problem and and asks for your opinions on how the problem should be fixed. The first in this series is:

Homelessness-how can it be remedied?

• The Weekly Round-Up
• The Weekly Round-Up: September 12, 2009
• Art of Manliness Weekly Link Roundup: Cake and Mates of State Edition
• Weekly Link Round-Up: October 31, 2009
• The Art of Manliness Weekly Link Round-Up: Help an AoM Reader Get on Mad Men Edition

This weekend is the annual D-fest music festival in Tulsa. Kate and I are going tonight, and I’m pretty stoked about the line up. Two of my favorite bands will be playing: Cake and Mates of State. Many of you have probably heard Cake before. They sing “Going the Distance” which is probably played at every sports event in America. But there’s definitely more to Cake than than one song. Check out Comfort Eagle. I think it’s their best album. Mates of State is a husband and wife duo that has a sound that’s hard to describe. It’s definitely mellow and chill and sort of nostalgic.

Alright, let’s take a look at some links:

Jayson at Revolutionary Man posted a great article on the purpose and value of men’s groups. He followed that post up with a good rundown on how to start a men’s group. If you haven’t already, make sure to subscribe to Jayson’s blog. He’s a fantastic writer and puts out interesting and useful content for men.

Trent at The Simple Dollar has a fantastic series going on called “Trent’s 14 Rules of Money.” The most recent rule was “Stop Trying to Impress Other People.” Couldn’t agree more.

Leo Babatua at Zen Habits has put out another e-book called Essential Motivation Habits. If you feel like you’ve been in a rut lately, definitely pick up the book. Lots of great info in it.

According to a survey of British women, mechanics have the manliest occupation. Hmm… maybe it’s time you learn a manual skill.

The Saddleback Leather Company Briefcase Giveaway

If you haven’t entered the Saddleback Leather Company Briefcase Giveaway, do it today! Entering is easy. Just leave a comment on the post, email the contest to your friends, or join the Man Bag Group in the AoM Community. Deadline to enter is Wednesday.

Around the Community This Week

Brian asks What’s Your Favorite Cologne? Lots of good suggestions from readers.

I started a discussion about fears unique to men. Are there fears that are unique to the male experience?

Robert asks the community how to be a mentor. It’s tough transitioning from being the mentee to being the mentor. What advice would you give a man who suddenly finds himself the mentor of a young man?

Andrew wants to know “how do you hold your pants up?” Are you a belt or suspenders man?

In the Manly Dads Group, Brad seeks advice on getting ready to have kids.

The men in the Film Group are discussing what upcoming movies they are looking forward to seeing.

In response to this week’s article on best guns for home defense, Shaun Daws asks in the Philosopher’s Group whether  killing in self defense is morally acceptable?

Other questions posed in the Philosopher’s Group include:

Should couples wait until marriage to have sex?

Is there such thing as an original thought?

• Congratulations to the Winner of the Saddleback Leather Company Briefcase Giveaway
• Congratulations to Saddleback Leather Company Man Bag Giveaway Winner
• Saddleback Leather Company Man Bag Giveaway
• Briefcase Essentials: The Saddleback Leather Company Giveaway
• The Art of Manliness: Best of July 2009