The SPHINX | Spring 1975| Volume 61| Number 1 197506101
VOLUME 61, NUMBER 1
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
FEBRUARY 1975
Follow Meto Miami"
TABLE OF CONTENTS
5 — Brotherhood In Crisis
Brother Hodari Kinamo gives serious consideration to aproblem which we sometimes would prefer to ignore This is an insightful article, written with sincere concern forthefuture of our beloved fraternity
7 — Regional Conventions
Get the latest information on your regional meeting and finalize your plans tobe "where theactionis."
14 — Focus
The spotlight in the academic community is on Brother Frederick Humphries, new president of Tennessee State Univeristy and, naturally,anAlphaMan
21 — Follow Me To Miami!
Everything you want to know about the General Convention and didn't know who to ask! Begin making your plans now -and bring the whole familyalong
25 — Re-Organization
For your convenience, we repeat the questionnaire by the Task Force on Re-organization. Give us your ideas on the needs of Alpha Phi Alpha.
37 — Bridging The Gap
Omicron Lambda Alpha is a "chapter with a mission." Started as Alpha's first intermediate chapter, OLA now functions as an alumni chapter -yet its unique mission inthe brotherhood remains intact
Special Features
A report on the Georgia State Convention can be found on page 6
Page 4 features the story of a birthday celebration for one of the most outstanding men in the history of Alpha Phi Alpha - Brother Raymond Cannon,first Editor-in-Chief of the Sphinx and Past General President The GeneralConvention Callis located onpage 1
DEPARTMENTS
2—The General President Speaks
3—From the Executive Secretary's Desk
18—There Goes an Alpha Man
26—Alphas on the Move
16—Newsline
30—Chapter News
20—Life Membership
38—Omega Chapter
40—Directory of Officers and Chapters
EDITOR'S REVIEW
This year, for the first time, we are including General Convention information in the February issue,rather than in May This will allow all Brothers ample time to make arrangements to attend the Miami convention Regional convention information is also included for your convenience As we prepare to journey to the 69th Anniversary Convention, it seems unbelievable that Brother Fred Atwater will not be in attendance there In his official capacity as Sergeant-at-Arms, Brother Atwater commanded the respect of even the most rambunctious of usas he kept the order. Past Executive Secretary Laurence T. Young, Sr prepared the tribute to Brother Atwater inthe Omega Chapter section.. A special note of thanks to all chapter editors who submitted material for this issue
You knew it — I knew it — and now, the world will know that Alpha's are on the move ! Alpha men are in positions of responsibility in virtually every corner of our nation Please continue to let us know what our Brothers are doing A note about addresses All Brothers should be aware that the Sphinx mailing list is compiled as Grand Tax and Life Memberships are paid. This is our only official address and all changes should indicate current Pass Card or Life Member numbers A complete roster of your chapter members which does not contain this information is of little help, if any, in up-dating addresses
Thus, the crucial point is to see that your full and correct address is registered with this office at the time Grand Tax is paid We are doing everything possible to make the Sphinx, your magazine,the finest of its kind in existence The task of researching, compiling and preparing the wealth of information at our disposal is awesome Certainly, mistakes will be made — but our progress is evident and the Sphinx will continue to move forward with your assistance.. Untilnext issue..
Michael J. Price, Editor
The Sphinx is the official magazine of the Alpha Phi Alpho Fraternity, Inc., 4432 Dr Martin Luther King Dr., Chicago, III 60653 Published four times a year: February May, October and December Send all editorial mail and change of Address (send both addresses) to Alpha Phi Alpho Fraternity, 4432 Dr Martin Luther King Drive, Chicago, III 60653
Manuscripts or art submitted to The Sphinx should be accompanied by addressed envelopes and return postage Editor assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts or art
Opinions expressed in columns and articles do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and use of any person s name in fiction, semi-fiction articles or humorous features is to be regarded as a coincidence and not as the responsibility of The Sphinx It is never done knowingly Copyright 1974 by The Sphinx, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc Reproduction or use, without written permission, of the editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited
The Sphinx has been published continuously since 1914 Organizing Editor: Bro Raymond W Cannon Organizing General President: Bro Henry Lake Dickason
Second class postage paid at Chicago, III Postmaster: Send form 3579 and all correspondence, 4432 Dr Martin Luther King Dr., Chicago, Illinois 60653
As General President of ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC., it becomes my constitutional duty to call the Brotherhood into annual convention—AUGUST 1-7, 1975. This year we shall headquarter at the beautiful Hotel Fontainebleau (and Eden Roc Hotel) in Miami Beach, Florida.
It is hoped that 1975 will be recorded as the year in which General Convention attendance reached the 3,000 mark Having witnessed the tremendous increase in convention attendance over the last two years, there is every indication that we will not only reach that mark but surpass it Last year we had 10,000 financial brothers by convention time; this year we plan to have 12,000 We look forward to again meeting in fellowship with many Alpha brothers and their families
"Alpha's Outreach to Business" .. . is the theme of the 69th Anniversary Convention. In an effort to turn our collective talents to this important subject, we shall attempt to spend less time in general sessions and focus on workshops and programs Some of the most outstanding speakers of the nation have been selected to appear and share their expertise in the areas of recession, inflation, and the problems of Black businesses We shall conduct a "working" convention — the fruits of which will have tremendous social import Among our in-house projects, we hope to report the organization of 100 new chapters since the San Francisco convention There will, of course, be the Equitable Employment Opportunity Exhibits and the Annual Job Interviews
This marks my 25th year as an Alpha man — and I invite you to join me in Miami to celebrate I am also proud to note that I have not missed a General Convention since my initiation, and eagerly look forward to this one "It will be a great convention!"
WALTER WASHINGTON General President
General Convention. Business plans for the 69th Anniversary Convention in Miami Beach are nearing completion - and the local committee has completed an exciting social program for the entire family State Directors. More and more, the day-by-day operation of the fraternity is being directed by State Directors We have seen the resultant increase in attendance at the state conventions — they're becoming mini-regionals We think the Vice Presidents and Assistant Vice Presidents have done a good job in helping to stimulate this growth Brotherhood "Brotherhood" is the foundation of our fraternity True brotherhood occurs at the chapter level No brother would knowingly tear down another brother When one destroys his brother, he destroys himself If one has a problem with a brother, he would go to that brother and tell him about it, but would never speak ill of him to someone outside the fraternity -that would be against the spirit of true brotherhood When a brother is going into business or any other profession, he should have the full support of the chapter And alumni brothers, in particular, should see that the college brother who graduates and is in need of ajob has the support of his older brothers. When a brother is ill, other brothers ought to be the first to answer his call Or, when a brother is retired and needs comradeship, other brothers ought to go to his home and spend some time with him. Younger, active brothers should go and bring older brothers to fraternity meetings This is not a fraternity exclusively for "older brothers" or "younger brothers" — all members are ALPHA men
And, with regard to issues having to do with Blacks in America I would like to request that each brother be out in the forefront. No Alpha man can stand on the sidelines and
not participate wholly in the upward mobility of our people Foundations. The Building Foundation, under Brother J.L Hunt, will be spotlighted at the Miami convention The brothers serving the Building Foundation have done a tremendous job this year in spite of the lag in the housing industry Many college brothers are having difficulty securing housing If any alumni brother can lend a helping hand in this instance - it would be the brotherly thing to do College brothers are not only the future of the fraternity, but they are an integral part of the on-going operation of the fraternity
Education is a cornerstone of Alpha Phi Alpha — and we have received many pledges from brothers to the Education Foundation's Million Dollar Drive The Chairman, Brother Herman B Smith, Jr., will be pleased to accept new pledges as well as payments on those already made.
Budget At its meeting of January 25th in New Orleans, the Board of Directors adopted a budget based on the guidelines of the San Francisco Convention. With constant inflation, it is very difficult to balance any budget The cost of printing has more than doubled, and the general operation of Alpha Phi Alpha has tripled. Please note that our most dramatic increases have been in basic fraternity services, not special projects For these reasons, we ask that you come to Miami prepared to support an increase in Grand Tax The Vice Presidents and Assistant Vice Presidents have studied this matter in detail and are committed to this crucial proposal MEET ME IN MIAMI
Thecost to conduct business at Chicago continues to eat away our "Hello!" National Headquarters has increased dollars!
The issue to face and rectify at our by 33 to 35% since 1972
So, if we are to implement fully and national convention in Miami Beach, Thehigh cost of office supplies, effectively the mandates and Florida, is — why we need to increase postage, printing, publishing, etc., resolutions authorized and approved our GRAND TAXES to $30.00 for severe | y affect our yearly operating by our great Fraternity, wemust be ALUMNI BROTHERS and $15.00 for budget! willing to pay increased GRAND COLLEGE BROTHERS The simple The high handling and transportation TAXES — to continue the membership economics of the matter is — the value charges for distribution of our progress and objectives of ALPHA PHI of the dollar's purchasing power isat Histories, Fraternity pins and jewelry, ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC least 35% less than it was in 1970, and other paraphernalia have gone out j /• /] and we find ourselves confronted with of sight! ^~A-J0 /=/ /yOh^WJL) an unprecedented inflation spiral for The high cost of utilities and main- / ^w^ ^ // the cost of material and services. tenance of National Headquarters in Executive Secretary
Alpha Calendar
MARCH 27 -29 REGIONAL CONVENTIONS: Southern - Charleston, SC Western - San Diego, CA
MARCH 28 -29 . . . REGIONAL CONVENTION: Southwestern - Monroe, LA
APRIL 1 Deadline for material to be submitted for publication in MAY edition of the SPHINX
APRIL 1 Convention packets mailed to all financial brothers
APRIL 25 -26 REGIONAL CONVENTION: Midwestern -Kansas City, MO
MAY 1 General Convention Delegate Credentials must be certified by the Office of the Executive Secretary Each chapter shall submit the name and pass card number of each of its delegates to the General Convention
MAY 1-3 REGIONAL CONVENTION: Eastern -Philadelphia, PA
M A Y 30 Deadline for submitting proposed constitutional amendments to the Office of the Executive Secretary.
JUNE 30 Proposed constitutional amendments will be circulated to all chapters by the Office of the Executive Secretary
JULY 15 Deadline for Pre-Registration without Late Fee for 69th Anniversary Convention
AUGUST 1 69th ANNIVERSARY CONVENTION Miami Beach, FL
BIRTHDAY SALUTE TO BROTHER RAYMOND W. CANNON
On the evening of January 28, 1975, Past General President Raymond W Cannon was preparing to retire when he heard considerable commotion As he proceeded to investigate, he saw his wife standing in the open doorway — and Alpha Phi Alpha men streaming into his home They were from all over Southern California — mostly from Beta Psi Lambda (Los Angeles), Alpha Delta (University of Southern California), and Eta Pi Lambda (Pasadena) and elsewhere Brother Thadeaus H Hobbs, Western Regional Vice President, headed the brothers and presented a birthday cake, about 3 feet long; Brother Clifford Prince, representing Eta Pi Lambda Chapter, presented a gift certificate for $25.00. They all sang "Happy Birthday", and the various brothers extended greetings and best wishes Brother Hobbs made remarks; and likewise, Brothers Clinton Minnis (President of Beta Psi Lambda) and Clifford Prince spoke. Brother Cannon was entirely surprised and almost overwhelmed In responding, he mentioned that he is now 83 years of age, that he entered Alpha Phi Alpha as a charter member of Mu Chapter(Minneapolis April 6, 1912, and that he has been a member of Alpha Phi Alpha nearly 63 years He further stated that he was the youngest member of his chapter and could have graduated at 20 years of age but that he was obliged to remain until he was 21 years of age to receive a degree from a professional college of the University of Minnesota. He further stated that he was elected junior delegate to the 5th General Convention (December 1912) in Columbus, Ohio, and that some of the brothers of his chapter voted to send him because he had never been away from home and they thought the experience would "do him good." That convention unanimously elected him General Vice President Brother Cannon stated that he has held five different general offices in the Fraternity and throughout the years his endeavors for Alpha Phi Alpha and the great work it undertook to perform were both challenging and stimulating; and that he has derived great satisfaction for helping to inaugurate and participate in a great program, rather a movement, dedicated to the uplift of mankind and our youth in particular
Mrs Cannon (who is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority) served coffee and refreshments. Pictures were taken Brother Cannon played on his stereo the record that celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the Sphinx The brothers sang the Alpha Hymn; and as the hour of midnight approached, the brothers departed — leaving Brother Cannon in a state of ecstacy such as only the Good Ole Alpha Spirit can create.
Shown here speaking at the Tribute to Jewel Henry A. Callis, Brother Cannon was the Senior Past General President in attendance at the 1974 San Francisco convention.
The "True Spirit" of the Fraternity, once a glowing flame generated by the Light of Xine, is now a flickering light destined to die if not fueled with purposeful Redirection/Rededication. The one time epilogue: "Alpha seeks no man; all men seek Alpha" is no longer applicable in today's competitive society We, as Alphas, cannot live in the past, nor can we claim the accomplishments of those who have paved our way unless we are leaving a legacy for those who are to follow Though our lineage is long and our blood lines are pure, surely the fact that WE EXIST is no reason for us to continue to exist For the young shall inherit it all, provided there is a legacy on which to build And, provided there is guidance as well as a worth-while tradition They will carry the Banners of Alphadom to the far reaches of the universe and men shall sing our praises throughout all times But first, we must analyse ourselves and our goals and redirect our every effort towards rededication to the precepts that were taught us as a Sphinxman and to the values instilled in us as Alphas during our college years
Recently there were two Founder's Day Banquets held simultaneously at separate locations. There are reasons; true But there is no rational excuse for such an occurrence Children feud, but soon forget their differences, while adults carry-on forever There are always a few who will remember There are none who can clearly say why communication, understanding and cooperation are so poor, in spite of the fact that there is an exchange between chapters on an individual basis
Soon there will be an Annual Sweethearts Ball sponsored on hollow tradition, because a few alumni brothers have a social obligation to meet and because a far greater number of college brothers are victims of a loss of traditional continuity to the point where they were never taught the reasons behind the whole affairs The affair, itself, is both a financial burden and a contradiction of our manifested priorities Furthermore, it can never be a success without the full participation and planning of allthe brothers
There is too little effort towards communicating with all brothers in our geographical area And, too little interest in
the personal goals and individual desires of brothers active in the fraternity and of those looking for a chapter home that radiates the familiar fraternalism they once had None of us get a fair return on our investment in the fraternity except possibly at a national convention — and then only if they are part of the central core of the national organization. During the brief, carefree days of college and the circumstances connected therewith -if you'll reflect for a moment -you had fraternity brothers who were your friends As one matures and affiliates with an alumni chapter, more and more the realization is illuminated — all that is left is fraternity, for the closeness is lost
We must rededicate ourselves to capturing the "True Spirit" of the Fraternity — whereby we communicate our goodwill towards all brothers of Alpha and our willingness to offer our time and effort in helping them to reach their maximum potential Thus, we will build a legacy and strengthen the life blood of our house We must form a liaison between the chapters in our community so that our programs can be coordinated without being duplicated And so that we might make a joint effort, thus insuring that all our endeavors are successful Furthermore, we must remember that the roots of Alpha are deeply embedded in the college brothers Without them, we shall surely die Then who shall sing our praises? A concerted effort should be made to make their transition into an alumni chapter an expectation - rather than a decision
The family of man is dissipating; likewise, the House of Alpha Quoting Brother Sydney P Brown:
"GOODWILL is the monarch of this house. Men, unacquainted, enter, shake hands, exchange greetings and depart friends. Cordiality exists among all who abide within."
I am
"the eminent expression of friendship."
—Brother HOPARI KINAMO
Illustration Beta Lambda, Miami, Florida
MARCHING 'CROSS
GEORGIA STATE CONVENTION IS SUCCESSFUL
The Georgia State Convention was held at the Macon Hilton in Macon, Georgia, on January 31st and February 1st - with 11 college chapters and 9 graduate chapters attending The convention was hosted by lota Eta Chapter of Mercer University and Epsilon Beta Lambda Chapter of Macon
The convention was termed a huge success, especially on the college level because of the participation of the college brothers in every phase
Beginning Friday afternoon, there was a social hour, where charming young ladies from Mercer University and Macon served as hostesses; this was followed later by an evening program and the Georgia State "Miss Black and Gold" Contest, where seven captivating young ladies vied for the title This was followed by the Black and Gold Ball
On Saturday morning, the first business session opened with interim State Director Ozell Sutton presiding There was an initial registration report which was followed by chapter reports and committee appointments A memorial service for brothers who had entered the Omega Chapter during the past year was conducted by Brother Father H.J.C.Bowden.
During the afternoon business session, Brother James ("Tiny") Blanton conducted a very interesting and fruitful workshop This is an innovative
feature of the state conventionrecommended by the national officeand it proved to be quite worth-while. Awards were made to the following brothers and chapters:
College Alpha Man of the YearBrother James E Thompson
Alpha Rho Chapter
Morehouse College
College Chapter of the YearAlpha Phi Chapter Clark College
College Chapter Display of the Year lota Chapter Morris Brown College
Alumni Alpha Man of the YearBrother Curttis V Cooper (Sr.) Beta Phi Lambda Savannah, Georgia
Alumni Chapter of the YearEpsilon Beta Lambda Chapter Macon, Georgia
Alumni Chapter Display of the Year -Theta Nu Lambda Chapter LaGrange, Georgia
Georgia Nominee for the Charles W Greene Award -Brother A.J Lewis, II Eta Lambda Chapter Atlanta, Georgia
Brothers Ozell Sutton and Issac H. Miller, III of Alpha Rho Chapter were chosen to represent the Georgia Delegation as candidates for Southern Regional Vice President and Assistant Vice President, respectively It was
decided that future STate Conventions would be held in Columbus, Georgia in 1976; Athens, Georgia in 1977; and Brunswick, Georgia in 1978
That evening the Grand State Banquet featured Brother Reginald Eaves as keynote speaker Brother Eaves (who serves in the Crime Department for the city of Atlanta) delivered an inspiring and challenging message to the listening audience. Following the address, Brother Sutton announced that Miss Cheryle A Johnson, representing the lota Eta Chapter of Mercer University, had been chosen as "Miss Black and Gold - Georgia (1975)." The two runners-up represented Morehouse and Savannah State chapters The brothers then stood to sing the Alpha Hymn; they were lead in the second stanza by Brother Z.C. Clay of Atlanta, who also rendered other selections during the program Brother Nathaniel Veale, National Miss Black and Gold Chairman, made remarks Appreciation was also expressed to the presidents of Epsilon Beta Lambda Chapter (Brother William T Barnes) and lota Eta Chapter (Brother Waldo E Johnson, Jr.) for the hospitality that the visiting brothers received Following the banquet, the Georgia State Alpha Phi Alpha Ball was held
Special thanks goes out to the young ladies of Mercer University and Macon, Georgia, for their strong support (which was evident during all the social functions) and to Brothers Lawton C. Thomas and James E. Dawson, Jr., Convention Chairmen, for their Alpha-listic endeavors in making this convention atotal success.
ALPHAS CONVENE IN LOUISIANA
The 1975 Convention of the Southwestern Region of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., will be held March 28th and 29th in Monroe, Louisiana. Eta Delta Lambda Chapter, host for the convention, is expecting the largest number of brothers inthe history of the region to attend and participate in shaping the direction of Alpha in the Southwest Convention Chairman and host chapter president Charles H Johnson invites the presence of all brothers in the Southwest (Arkansas, Lousiana, Oklahoma, andTexas) to join the brothers of Eta Delta Lambda and the Lousiana Conference of Alpha Chapters at Monroe
Convention headquarters will be the beautiful Monroe Ramada Inn, where all business sessions will be held along with countless activities of a social nature The host chapter is promising "Southern hospitality" of a kind never before experienced
Of course, there will be plenty of work to be done by the members of the Southwestern Region — a region which is experiencing unprecendented growth During the last year, newchapters have been chartered in every state in the region, and the presidents of the state organizations will be discussing plans for increased activity in thefuture
Brothers of the Southwest should travel to Monroe to work for Alpha's continued success to have fun and to renew acquaintances in the Alpha spirit Louisiana and Eta Delta Lambda anxiously await your arrival.
SOUTHWEST!
Region on the MOVE! ! !
These brothers from Eta Delta Lambda Chapter will serve as hosts for the 29th Annual Southwestern Regional Convention in Monroe, Louisiana; they are (left to right): Front Row: Brothers Richard Miles, Abe Pierce, III, Charles Johnson, Walter Allen, Nathan Jones, Milton Jackson and George Muse. Back Row: Brothers Lee Smith, Louis Pargond, Wilburforce Mosley, Michael Jackson, Willie Secrease and Le Von Smith.
SOUTHWESTERN REGIONAL CONVENTION Monroe,
Louisiana
CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS
Activities for the Brothers
Friday
- Fraternity Luncheon
- Fraternal Courtesies (16) Hours
- Rap Session
-Meet Your Date Party
Saturday
- Fraternity Luncheon
- Fraternal Courtesies
- Banquet
- Dance
- Nursery Until
Activities for Wives and Children
Friday
-Teen Luncheon
-Wives' Tour & Luncheon
-Children's Party
- Nursery
- Adult Party
Saturday
-Skating at Skateland
- Ladies' Luncheon
-Visit to Louisiana Purchase Garden and Zoo
-Teen Record Hop
- Banquet
- Dance
- Nursery
THE EAST . . . birthplace of Alpha
Convention Headquarters: Sheraton Hotel 17th & Kennedy Boulevard Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Come to the "City of Brotherly Love"
The lovely ladies of Philadelphia!
Ladies of Alpha Zeta Omicron Lambda
Alpha Beties Rho Chapter
historic CIMHgSTON- HOST TO SOUTHERN REGION
south Carolina
Beta Kappa Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the brothers in the State of South Carolina, the Alphabettes, and a host of children are enthusiastically preparing to host the Southern Regional Convention in Charleston, South Carolina The meeting will convene March 27th at the Francis Marion Hotel (convention headquarters) Beta Kappa Lambda promises that the convention will be a productive and memorable one, centering around the theme "Alpha's Continuing Concern for Brotherhood Through Rededication and Life Membership."
Several social affairs and events, including activities for children, will await your arrival in Charleston Brothers and their families who have paid advance registration fees will (upon arrival at the Francis Marion Hotel) proceed directly to the Advance Registration Desk located in the lobby They will then receive their prepared convention kits, activity tickets and convention information
Brother James C Edwards, Convention Chairman, and Brother Omega F Newman, President of Beta Kappa Lambda, both express confidence that continued-...
10:00 A.M Tour & Luncheon (Pre Bi-Centennial ActivitiesSpecial Attraction: Focus on Black Contributions)
SATURDAY - MAY 3rd
12:30 P.M Luncheon and Fashion Show
6:00 P.M Cocktails
6:30 P.M Formal Banquet 10:00 P.M Formal Dance
Continued from previous page
all in attendance will enjoy the stay in Charleston, a beautiful and unusual old city. Among its many attractions are its famous gardens, superb beaches and many historic homes, all of which retain their age-old charm and beauty Even the location of the city - which is situated between the Ashley and Cooper Rivers - is worth your interest It is said that the two rivers join "to form the Atlantic Ocean." All in all, Charleston is certainly brimming with exciting things to see and do
Of course, the primary reason for coming to Charleston is to carry out the work of the Fraternity This year's theme is a reaffirmation of the Southern Region's commitment to Brotherhood and proposes concrete programs for remaining "First of all. " Join the Southern Region of Alpha Phi Alpha in convention, March 27-29, 1975, in historic Charleston, South Carolina
WELCOME TO CHARLESTON
Working with Brother James Edwards (Convention Chairman) in planning the activities for your stay in Charleston will be:
(Above) Brother W.J. Davis, State Director for South Carolina, Southern Region, 1975
(Above - Right) Brother Omega P. Newman, President of Host Chapter, Beta Kappa Lambda, Southern Region, 1975,
(Right) Mrs. Daniel E. Martin, General Chairman for Ladies and Childrens Activities, Southern Region, 1975
CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS
Public Program
(Thursday, March 27th - 7:30 P.M
Work Sessions
Miss Black and Gold Contest
Dance
Seafood Frolic
Boatride
Ladies Luncheon and Fashions Display
Bait-A-Date Party (Thursday, March 27th)
Brother James C. Edwards, Jr. General Convention Chairman
January 28, 1975
Dear Brothers in Alpha:
The Brothers in the Greater Kansas City area are busy bringing things upto-date and getting plans straight for the 1975 Midwestern Convention Beta Lambda and co-host chapters, Delta Rho, Upsilon and Zeta Gamma are working jointly to assure that all phases of the April 25-26 Regional are productive, enjoyable and in keeping with the Alpha tradition
We invite every chapter in the Midwestern Region to participate in this convention and share in "Channeling Alpha Energy inToday's Society."
All of us in Greater Kansas City extend you a hearty welcome
Fraternally,
Edwin R Byrd
Convention Chairman
MIDWESTERN REGIONAL
Muehlebach Hotel Kansas City, Missouri
PRE-CONVENTION REGISTRATION INFORMATION MIDWESTERN REGIONAL CONVENTION
NAME .PASS CARD NO
HOME ADDRESS
CHAPTER LOCATION
CHAPTER STATUS: NATIONAL OFFICER DELEGATE
DATE OF ARRIVAL
JMBER IN PARTY
REGISTRATION FEES:
BROTHERS $15.00
Mail all checks, inquiries
REGIONAL OFFICER .VISITOR .. 1975
PLEASE MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO:
Alpha PhiAlpha Fraternity, Inc
Beta Lambda Chapter
Brother Charles McGee President Beta Lambda Chapter
The Midwestern Regional Convention of Alpha Phi Alpha will be held April 25-26, in Kansas City, Missouri Convention headquarters will be the Muehlebach Hotel in downtown Kansas City
Business sessions at the meeting will center on the convention theme "Channeling Alpha Energy Into Today's Society" and will address the crucial problems facing our world and proposed solutions to these problems
Col Charles McGee is President of Beta Lambda, host chapter for the convention, and Brother Edwin L Byrd is the Convention Chairman The brothers of the Kansas City area are planning an interesting and fun-filled meeting for all in attendance
College brothers participation reaches its peak in the Midwestern Region - and, as usual, a song test will be a scheduled part of the convention format College brothers from across the Midwest are expected to be in attendance
Planned activities include a hospitality suite, both semi-formal and formal dances, and a special "VIP" room for arriving brothers Leading members of Alpha Phi Alpha across the country are scheduled to participate in the convention program Detailed information on the convention will be mailed to brothers in the Midwestern Region during the month of March Make your plans now to be in "KC in 75."
Brother Edwin Ft. Byrd Convention Chairman
Midwestern Convention 1975
27th Anniversary WESTERN REGIONAL CONVENTION
The planning committee for the Western Regional Convention has experienced great cooperation from members of both Eta Sigma (college) and Zeta Sigma Lambda (alumni) chapters. (Above - Left to Right) Top Row: Brothers Howard Carey, Dr. Veil R. Wyatt, Larry Sadler, Dr. David Wynn, John Thornton, Robert Covington, William E. Payne and Conley Major. Bottom Row: Brothers Reginald Jackson, Rufus DeWitt, James McCann and Samuel McElroy, Jr.
(At left - Left to Right) Top Row: Brothers Howard Carey, Conley Major, Norris Charles and John Thornton. Bottom Row: Brothers Ray McElroy, Norman Hall and Eric Payne.
Convention News Western Regional Convention
The San Diego Area chapters will host the 27th Anniversary Western Regional Convention of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc — March 27-29, 1975, in San Diego, California Be sure to make plans to attend this convention
Many of the lovely shops, restaurants and fine stores are readily accessible from convention headquarters — the El Cortez Hotel — located in the heart of San Diego, "The City in Motion."
San Diego — America's only international playground There is really something rather distinctive about San Diego - a particular pride - in fact, the ideal place to have a convention. We really expect to have a record of Alphas and their families in attendance at the 27th. This is a very logical expectation when you see what is being planned by the host chapters (with Brother Samuel McElroy, Jr as Convention Chairman) The host chapter presidents are Brother Rufus DeWitt of Zeta Sigma Lambda and Brother Conley Major of Eta Sigma The host Vice President is Brother Thadeaus Hobbs of the Western Region.
Hotel Reservations . . . The hotel accommodations for the Western Regional Convention will be handled by the El Cortez Hotel Catering & Sales Department and coordinated by Brother Reginald Jackson, Registration & Housing Committee Chairman All registrants will be assured of the type of accommodations requested (jQl DEIM Fo r you r convenience ' a room reservation card will soon be mailed to the brothers of the Western Region. When you receive this form, fill it out immediately and return it to the El Cortez Hotel. Reserve your room early.
THE WEST
Advance Convention Registration . . . Pre-registrants will be processed upon arrival Brothers and their families who have paid advance registration fees will (upon arrival at El Cortez Hotel) proceed to the Registration Desk to receive their prepared convention kits, activities tickets and other convention information Please note:
Activities Planned The convention sessions are being planned to give you and your family an opportunity to shop, relax, sight-see and to enjoy the many recreational facilities in San Diego. The host chapter will be sponsoring a gala "Greek Soiree," the Life Members Breakfast and Alpha's Outreach Seminars in Business which will be among the main features during the convention period The Invitational Golf Tournament, the Sportfishing Excursion, the Ladies Luncheon and Fashion Show and several other events (including a schedule of activities for children) are items on the agenda of this convention. BROTHERS ... LOOKFORWARD
BROTHER FREDERICK S
The leadership of Tennessee State University changed hands recently — from Alphaman to Alphaman. In a special session of the Tennessee State Board of Regents on October 2, 1974, Dr. Frederick S. Humphries, 39, was chosen to succeed TSU's outgoing President, Brother A.P. Torrence (who last Apri announced his resignation, effective October 1, 1974)
A native of Apalachicola, Florida, Brother Humphries earned the Ph.D. in physica chemistry, magna cum laude, at the University of Pittsburgh, and the B.S n chemistry, magna cum laude, at Florida A & M University — where he was initiated into Alpha Phi Alpha's Beta Nu Chapter (Tallahassee) As an undergraduate at Florida A & M, he was chosen the "most outstanding" n his class each of his four years A Distinguished Military Science Graduate (ROTC), he served two years as an officer n the U S Army Security Agency
<7
One of the outstanding educators of the country, Brother Humphries served with the Institute for Services to Education (ISE), since 1968, n various directorships - his most recent being that of a Vice President (since 1970) (ISE is a non-profit organization which works cooperatively with educational institutions producing innovative educational materials and techniques in cooperation with faculty and administrators, as well as developing procedures for the installation of successful materials and techniques in the colleges.) His services as a consultant are widely sought With this background, he comes to the presidency of Tennessee State well equipped to meet the challenges of that multi-purpose university, a leader among the 1890 Land-Grant institutions of higher education
Brother Humphries was a Nationa Urban League Fellow (Summer -1966), a Graduate Research Fellow (196064), and a Graduate Teaching Assistant (1959 - 60) at the University of Pittsburgh. His major teaching experience has been in chemistry as an Assistant Professor at the University of Minnesota and Associate and Professor at Florida A & M His other professional memberships include the American Associations of Higher Education, of University Professors, and for the Advancement of Science; the American Chemical Society; Ph Lambda Upsilon (graduate chemistry honorary), University of Pittsburgh; Sigma Xi (graduate science and engineering honorary); Alpha Kappa Mu and Beta Kappa Chi (undergraduate academic and scientific honoraries)
Brother Humphries is married to the former Miss Antoinette McTurner of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania They are the parents of three children, Frederick, Jr., 13; Robin Tanya, 11; and Lawrence Anthony, 4
A brother of noteworthy achievement and service to all mankind?
WHO, WHAT AND WHERE
TOP OF THE PAGE: State conventions top the list of Alpha happenings since our last issue Most meetings have already been held and the Brothers are now preparing to begin the Regional Conventions at various sites
FOCUS on a few of these meets . .. The New Jersey State Convention was held February 1st at the Kings Grant Inn, located in Point Pleasant (NJ). Speakers for the affair included Congressman CHARLES B RANGEL and Mrs Ernesta Procope, realtor and a winner of Black Enterprise's First Annual Achievement Award The presiding officer for the convention was Brother ELBERT WISNER, State Director of New Jersey.
VACAPAF, the state organization of Virginia, held its annual convention at the Sheraton-Coliseum Hotel in Hampton Hosted by Virginia's Tidewater North area (Gamma lota, Zeta Lambda and Delta Beta Lambda), the convention was both interesting and enlightening -featuring workshops and seminars covering a broad array of interests Brother H GRAY GILLEM, SR., is State Director
The Illinois State Convention was hosted by Alpha Mu chapter at Northwestern University in Evanston The General Meeting was addressed by Executive Secretary WILLIAM H. WALKER, and Midwestern Vice President JAMES R. WILLIAMS was the banquet speaker. General President WALTER WASHINGTON also briefly spoke to the assembly (following a convention planning session in Chicago)
Many other meetings were carried on across the country, including the Georgia "mini-regional" held in Macon Brother REGINALD EAVES, Public Safety Commissioner of Atlanta, was the keynote speaker at that affair If the state meetings are any indication, the regionals and, of course, the General Convention should be outstanding events DON'T MISS YOUR REGIONAL CONVENTION!
Brother Reginald Eaves
Supreme Court Justice
THURGOOD MARSHALL presided at the swearing-in ceremony of Walter Washington, first Black elected mayor of Washington, D.C "Paw Paw" ,the employee newsletter of the American Embassy in Lagos, Nigeria, carried a notice to Alpha Phi Alpha brothers in the Lagos area from the members of Eta Epsilon Lambda in Monrovia, Liberia - in preparation for the 1976 General Convention
Good News
Brother HENRY C CRAWFORD, a member of Delta Alpha Lambda and long-time general convention photographer, is reported doing well following his recent hospitalization
A "Great Thinker" is the Chicago Daily Defender's characterization of Brother HUGH WILSON, Vice President of Drexel National Bank in that city The columnist noted that Brother Wilson is part of a talented family, including his three sons who are enrolled in college
lota Upsilon Lambda Chapter in Silver Springs, Maryland, staged a Black History Week Program on February 12, 1975, featuring The Honorable C. Delores Tucker, Secretary of State - Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, as guest speaker A highlight of the program was lUL's presentation of a special award to Mrs Myra Callis, widow of Jewel HENRY A. CALLIS and a prominent scholar and sociologist in her own right
At White House....
Good vibes exchanged at the White House when Brother Lionel Hampton (left) visited with Stanley Scott, special assistant to President Gerald Ford. Washington Atty. Timothy Jenkins looks on at right. Hampton discussed his plan to launch a school of music involving disadvantaged teen-agers.
NEWSLINE
Brother JOSEPH GUNNELL, Alpha stalwart of the first rank, leaves St Louis to assume a new position with the State of Missouri Welfare Division in Jefferson City Best wishes!
The Delta Alpha Lambda NewsReel, a summary of the activities of brothers who hit the spotlight in Cleveland, noted the following brothers: Brother JOHN BUSHMANTE - for an excellent first year of operation with the Blackowned First Bank and Trust of Cleveland; Brother ROBERT JAMESappointed Personnel Director of the Cleveland Transit System on January 3rd; Brother HILTON O SMITH - elected to a one-year term as a Director of the City Club; Brothers MELVIN CROUTHER, JEROME McCLAIN, DAVID WHITEHEAD and GLENN ZELLERS - elected to the Cleveland NAACP Executive Committee; and Brother EDWIN J WILLIAMS - elected Treasurer of the Cleveland NAACP
Change of command Brother A.M. WITHERSPOON has been appointed State Director of North Carolina by Southern Vice President BENNIE J HARRIS The Raleigh resident succeeds Brother WALTER SULLIVAN, the new Dean of Arts and Science of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
ALPHA FIRSTS Brother LIONEL HAMPTON is credited as the first jazz musician to make extensive use of the "vibes." Brother Hampton is now preparing to open a school of music for disadvantaged teen-agers Also, Bill Russell's refusal to accept induction into the NBA Hall of Fame prompted some researchers to note that, contrary to popular opinion, Russell was not the first Black coach in professional sports. That honor goes to Brother FRITZ POLLARD, who led the Akron (OH) Bulldogs to the first National Professional Football Championship in 1920. A Phi!!! CONDOLENCES to Illinois State Representative LEWIS A. H. CALDWELL, whose mother died recently in Chicago
A Man For All Seasons . . . Atlanta's super Mayor, Brother MAYNARD JACKSON, displayed his versatility to the entire country First, he "kayoed" heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali in a fund-raising benefit bout; then he played the gracious host as President Ford (of the USA) delivered the not-sopleasing news about the nation's economic state
The Black Student Union of the University of Utah (Logan) has established the William H. Hale Memorial Fund in honor of the late educator and Past General President of Alpha Phi Alpha A fitting tribute
Brother JOHN H. POWELL, JR., Chairman of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, recently traveled to Europe to study race relations Powell reports that the Europeans have their share of problems in this area
An Alpha Affair? Brother LOUIS MARTIN, Vice President and Editorial Director of the Chicago Daily Defender, was the guest speaker for the third annual breakfast of the Chicago Branch of the Association for the Study of Afro-American Life and History, held February 8th Brother Martin was introduced by Brother JOHN HOPE FRANKLIN, distinguished Historian at the University of Chicago
The Fourth Annual Education Week of GAMMA RHO Chapter at Purdue University was an unqualified success The brothers of this chapter continue to hold high Alpha's committment to scholarship -and have emerged as the leading Black organization on the campus. Brother SYLVESTER BARNES, III is the chapter President
BOTTOM LINE: Brother HOWARD BENNETT is serving as Chairman of the National Citizen's Committee for a Dr Martin Luther King Holiday The committee presented Congress with a petition containing over 1 Vi-million signatures requesting that January 15th (Dr King's birthday) be declared a National Holiday. Hopes are high that the 94th Congress will give favorable attention to this petition Why not write your Congressman and let him know how you feel?
Brother James R. Williams Midwestern Vice President
Brother Maynard Jackson Mayor of Atlanta
Brother John H. Powell, Jr. EEOC Chairman
flilEI
Attorney JULIUS L. CHAMBERS, a Charlotte, North Carolina lawyer and civil rights activist, has been elected President of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund Brother Chambers succeeds Secretary of Transportation-designate William T Coleman in this post Chambers has been associated with the Fund since 1963, when he joined as its first legal intern (1963-64), working primarily on civil rights cases in Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia and Alabama
A native of Mt Gilead, North Carolina, Brother Chambers received the B.A degree (summa cum laude) in history from North Carolina College in Durham He then received a Woodrow Wilson Scholarship to study at the University of Michigan (1958-59), where he received the M.A degree in history He entered the study of law at the University of North Carolina School of Law on a John Hay Whitney Fellowship receiving the Juris Doctor with High Honors in 1962
Following graduation from UNC's law school, he was appointed a teaching associate and taught first year law classes at Columbia University School of Law, where he also completed his work and was granted a Master of Laws degree in 1963.
Presently the senior partner in the law firm of Chambers, Stein and Ferguson, Brother Chambers entered law practice in Charlotte in 1964, again specializing in civil rights litigation He is a member of Alpha's Beta Nu Lambda Chapter, Pi Gamma Mu Honor society (social science), Phi Alpha Theta Honor Society (history), Order of the Coif (national honorary legal society), Order of the Golden Fleece (university of North Carolina honor society), and Prince Hall Masonic Lodge Affiliated with the North Carolina, National, and American Bar Associations, he serves on the Board of Directors of the Southern Regional Council and the American Civil Liberties Union as well as the Board of
Governors of the University of North Carolina He is also a trustee of North Carolina Central University, his alma mater.
Chambers' extraordinary leadership potential was recognized as early as his law school days at UNO when he held the position of Editor-in-Chief of the North Carolina Law Review As President of the Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Chambers became the leader of the continuing fight to secure full civil liberties for all and (as has been the case over the last few years) to prevent the erosion of many of the gains made by civil rights movements of the past Julius Chambers - an ALPHA man - brings a wealth of expertise and enthusiasm to this crucial position
Brother Chambers is married to the former Vivian Giles of Kannapolis, North Carolina. They are members of the Friendship Baptist Church in Charlotte and the parents of two children, Derrick LeVonne and Judy LaVern.
ENTERS INDUSTRIAL SOCIETY
Brother ARTHUR BEAL COOPER, JR. was inducted into the Illinois State University Chapter of the American Society of Safety Engineers on November 14, 1974 He is the first Black student to be accepted into that chapter and is probably one of the first in the entire organization. Brother Cooper, who is an Elementary Education major at ISU, found that joining the Society was not an easy task His initial application was rejected because he was not an Industrial Technology major However, after doing further work in his minor field, Occupational Safety, and adding ayear of work experience at the Metropolitan Sanitary District of Chicago's South-
west Plant, he again petitioned for membership - and was accepted Safety Engineering is fast becoming a vital area in industry, affecting the health and lives of thousands of workers (many of them Black) employed in industrial factories Brother Cooper's acceptance into the American Society of Safety Engineers is, indeed, a step in the right directionand one to be applauded
Brother Cooper, known throughout the Midwest as "Coop", is a charter member of Eta Tau Chapter at Illinois State University He is afamiliar sight at state and regional conventions; if you have seen one of those Alpha "Playboy" buttons, you've probably met "Coop."
Cooper is now employed as an assistant to Mr Lewis L Legg, Coordinator of the Environmental Health and Safety office in Chicgo. He has been recommended for an externship with State Farm Insurance Company following his December '75 graduation from ISU."Coop" is an ALPHA man!
Finding success in the radio and television field is a hard nut to crack Major white-controlled corporations seem virtually impenetrable, and the Black companies are flooded with talent because of this fact Nonetheless, some do make it and CHARLES WOODHOUSE wants to be among that select number Unlike many brothers featured in There Goes An Alpha Man, Brother Woodhouse is not at the top of his mountain - but he scaled one "hill" in the long climb toward his goal That achievement
came when he snared a spot as a Disk Jockey for WOJO-FM in Evanston, Illinois, one of the most popular radio stations in the Chicago area
A member of Theta Chapter in Chicago, Woodhouse (known as "Shaft" and a host of other monikers) makes the rounds of private parties and frat and sorority affairs DJing with a "professional flair." Landing the program on WOJO provided "Mr. C" with the professional on-the-job training needed to pursue his goal to fruition As is often the case in the entertainment field, Woodhouse's position at WOJO is tenuous at the moment - due to the station's projected changeover to a Spanish-language format. But, "that's show biz", and Woodhouse is determined to transcend all So, if you happen to tune in to a radio station (any radio station) and hear the jive rappings of a DJ called "Mr C", stop and listen - for it just might be an ALPHA man, Brother Charles Woodhouse.
The Sphinx / February 1975
ALPHA PHIALPHA - FOR LIFE
Greetings Brothers in Alpha:
WE HAVE THROWN AWAY THE GOALS!
Alas, in these days of "Management By Objectives" the Life Membership department announces that it can't cope with chapter enthusiasm. We set a goal of a thousand life members and soon achieved that. Then, we raised the objective to two thousand — and, to twenty-five hundred participants in the life membership program — and we topped 'em, too. We set a goal of 300 new before Miami (just announced that goal in the last Sphinx) but we had 359 new participants, including 216 fully paidfrom 112 chapters (including 13 college chapters) by January 1st. We just can't set goals that you can't top; therefore, we give up. WE HAVE THROWN AWAY THE GOALS FOR 1975.
SO, WHAT'S NEW?
Now we read in the Sphinx where General President Washington called for each chapter to set a minimum goal of 50% of its members as Alpha Life Members. At your regional convention the Life Membership Promotion Secretary, "Tiny" Blanton, will call for every active chapter to be active in promoting Life Membership. He has set the goal at three thousand participants in the Life Membership Program by the time we reach Miami. Now, I know you will not let them down because you have never let me fail to achieve any set goal. Back the General President and build up your chapter membership; then, join Charles Keels of Zeta Omicron Lambda in Philadelphia, Bob Willis of Atlanta and Col. McGee of Kansas City in making your chapter 50% life members. Or, back "Tiny" and organize to contact every man in your chapter area who is not in the Alpha Life Membership Program. Give each man a personal invitation to beat the new price deadline and to become an Alpha Life Member before the fee increase on July 1, 1975.
LET'S GET THOSE 3,000 BY MIAMI!
Here is where we stood on January 1, 1 975:
MARK YOUR CALENDAR NOW 10TH ANNUAL ALPHA LIFE MEMBERS' FELLOWSHIP BREAKFAST Tuesday, August 5,1975 7:30 A.M Fontainebleau Hotel Miami Beach, Florida 2,632 66 (Omega) 2,056 PAID IN FULL 2,698
Does your regional convention have a special feature for life members? Fraternally,
JOHN D. BUCKNER, National Chairman Life Membership and Reclamation
69th ANNIVERSARY CONVENTION
• r/«<ju±{ J-7, J97.5
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MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA ...As Alpha's Diamond Anniversary rapidly approaches (when we'll celebrate 75 years of service to mankind), the brothers of the Greater Miami area are busily preparing to be your hosts at the 69th Anniversary Convention of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., which will be held August 1 - 7, 1975, in Miami Beach. A tourist's dream, Miami Beach offers a luxurious setting fora week of family fun and serious deliberations on Alpha's strategy for meeting its increasing challenges.
Over 3,000 registered brothers andtheir families are expected to be in attendance at this convention - as the Fraternity tackles one of the most important problems of today and launches "Alpha's Outreach to Business." The General Convention Committee, in conjunction with the Host Chapters - led by Brother Earl E Allen (Convention Chairman), promises that your stay in Miami Beach will be both pleasant and extremely rewarding Take heed of our motto: "Follow Me To Miami Beach!!!"
Hotel Reservations... Headquarters for the 1975General Convention will be the Hotel Fontainebleau and the Eden Roc Hotel All reservations will be handled by the Reservation Director of the Hotel Fontainebleau For your convenience, a room reservation card for the convention will soon bemailed to the entire active membership Please fill out this form (immediately) and return it to the Fontainebleau - no postage is required Your accommodations will be among the finest available. The arc-shaped Fontainebleau isahotel, beach resort, country club, health spa, and convention center -located inagiant Miami Beach complex The hotel has hosted well over 5,000 conventions and is waiting to serve thebrothers of Alpha Phi Alpha. The luxurious Eden Roc Hotel will serve as the co-convention hotel Reserve your room EARLY Activities Planned.. Theconvention sessions are being
'FOLLOW ME TO MIAMI BEACH"
The Fontainebleau
GENERAL CONVENTION ...75
The Eden Roc,
planned to facilitate the business of the Fraternity and to allow you and your family ample time to explore Greater Miami, "The Magic City." Business sessions focusing on education, business and finance will be held during the day Activity should be at a high pitch as two candidates are chosen to appear on the mail ballot for the (1976) election of a new General President. As usual,the convention will also feature the Job Recruitment Program and the ever-popular Life Members Breakfast. A full schedule of activities for children (teens, pre-teens, and nursery) and a variety of social activities await your arrival in Miami Beach Ladies will be treated to the luncheon-fashion show, excursions to the race track and Vizcaya (an Italian palace in Miami), get-acquainted receptions and more All in all,the convention will be loaded with "things to do." Don't feel bad if you can't see it all it's awonderful excuse to return!
Advance Convention Registration. For your convenience, please PreRegister, if possible. A $5 "Late Fee" will be assessed to brothers who register after July 15, 1975 Along with insuring that the Committee is able to adequately prepare for everyone attending, Advance Registration will allow you to spend less time at the registration desk and more time enjoying the city Convention kits, ac-
tivities tickets and convention information will be prepared in advance for pre-registrants and await your arrival at the hotel.
Delegate Credentials In accordance with the Constitution and By-
Laws of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., all chapters must submit to the General Office the name and passcard number of each of its delegates to the General Convention — on or before May 1, 1975 Official forms for this purpose will be provided by the General Office.
Convention Travel Travel arrangements may be made through the Henderson Travel Service, Atlanta, Georgia, or individually In addition, many chapters feature charter flights which are open to others in the area Please inquire in your area or region for this information Henderson Travel Service will also coordinate the postconvention cruise to the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Jamaica
Don't Miss It The 69th Anniversary Convention looms as one of the largest and most important in recent years — and it guarantees lots of FUN! General President Walter Washington notes that the General Convention is the height of fraternal activity This is especially true when you consider the magic and wonder of fabulous Miami Beach BE AMONG THE 3,000 plus! "Follow Me To Miami Beach" in 1975
CONVENTION INFORMATION
HOTEL ROOM RATES: Singles - $22.00; Twins - $29.00; Triple - $35.00 Parlor and 1 bedroom Suites: $70.00 to $90.00; Parlor and 2 Bedroom Suites: $100.00 to $120.00 Children under 12 years sharing rooms with parents -no charge
REGISTRATION FEES: Graduate Brothers: $50.00 - College Brothers: $30.00 IF PAID AND RECEIVED IN THE OFFICE OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY ON OR BEFORE July 15, 1975 Registration thereafter and at the Convention: Add $5.00 to the listed fees Registration fees do not include those tours, meals,golf tournament oractivities where a fee charge is indicated Extra: Formal Banquet tickets:$15.00 each Life Members Breakfast: $5.00 College Brothers Luncheon: Cost included in registration fee WOMEN AND CHILDREN'S REGISTRATION FEES: Women: $35.00Children: $30.00 - Nursery Service: $30.00 Fees include tickets for tours, luncheon and activities except the Formal Banquet, and where fee charges are indicated Baby sitters will be available for night-time activities Nursery services provide for registered nurse, counselors, lunch, snacks, games, arts, crafts, entertainment, TV viewing, filmstrips, and story-telling Parents are expected to call for their children promptly at the closing hours listed each day Play clothes and sweaters -necessary Formal Banquet and Reception: $15.00
INVITATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT: Sunday, August 3, 1975 Entry Fee: $15.00; includes Green Fee, Electric Cart or Hand Cart and Transportation DAY-AT-THE-RACES (Caulder): $7.00
SPECIAL INFORMATION: Brothers or Alpha wives seeking special information about Miami Beach should write to Brother Earl E Allen, Convention Chairman, 5701 N.W. 6th St., Miami, FL 33127.
Monday -August 4, 1975 9:00 A.M -5:00 P M thru Wednesday -August 6, 1975
NURSERY SERVICE FEE $30.00
Return to:
Ernest N Mortal, Chairman
Reorganization Task Force
c/o Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, 4432 Martin L King Drive Chicago, Illinois 60653 Inc
RE-ORGANIZATION COMMISSION PREFERENTIAL CHECK LIST
Any initiated Alpha is eligible to complete this preferential list
Indicate your preferences by checking any and all items below that you feel will improve the fraternity. Feel free to write any other suggestions or comments.
BASIC ORGANIZATION:
• Retain present Organizational Structure
PRESIDENTIAL AUTHORITY:
• Retain
Other:
• Increase • Decrease
OFFICE OF EXECUTIVE SECRETARY AUTHORITY:
• Retain
• Increase • Decrease
• Change Title to "Executive Director"
Other:
OFFICERS:
• Establish "Office of President-Elect"
• Eliminate Tenure Restrictions
• Retain current number of Vice Presidents and Assistant Vice Presidents
• Reduce or Q Increase number of Regional Vice Presidents
• Reduce or FJ Increase number of Regional Assistant Vice Presidents
• Create "Office of National Vice Presidents" How Many? D 1 • 2 • 3 Alumni? Q College? • Both? •
• Create "Office of District Representatives"
Other:
YOUR COMMENT(s) ON ANY OR ALL AREAS:
ELECTIONS — VOTING:
• Retain or • Change present Method of Election of General President
• Retain or • Change present Method of Election of Regional Vice Presidents and Assistant Vice Presidents
G Elect All Officers At General Convention Other.
GENERAL CONVENTIONS, REGIONALS, and STATE CONFERENCES:
• State Conferences — Meet Annually
• Regionals — Meet Annually
• Retain present Annual Convention
• Meet Every 18 Months
Alternating Summer andWinter Conventions
: ] Meet Only In Even Numbered Years
• Retain • Lengthen or • Shorten General Convention
n Retain or • Change Director of General Conventions
• Transfer Functions of Director of General Conventions to Office of Executive Secretary
G Retain or • Change present Number of Delegate Rpresentatives to General Conventions
Other:
SPHINX MAGAZINE:
• Retain or • Eliminate "Editor of Sphinx" as Elected Officer
D Assign Publication and Editorial Duties to Office of Executive Secretary
• Retain • Increase or • Decrease the Number of Issues of the Sphinx Magazine
• Substitute Quarterly Newsletter for Summer Issue of Sphinx
n Solicit Advertising
Other:
CHAPTERS:
• Intermediate Chapters
• Retain or • Change Greek designations of Alumni Chapters
• More Than One (1) Alumni Chapter Per City
Other.-
REGIONS — DISTRICTS:
• Retain or • Change present Regional Structure
• Increase or • Decrease Number of Regions
• Create Districts and Eliminate Regions
Other:
GRAND TAX; BUDGET and FINANCE:
• Retain or • Change present Rebate to Regions
: ; Rebate to Chapters
• Increase or • Decrease GrandTax
• Increase Life Membership Fee
• Place Restrictions On Eligibility for Life Membership
• Reduce Convention Costs
• Pay Grand Tax direct to EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Other.
ALPHAS on THE MOVt>
Send profiles of your outstanding brothers (College and Alumni) to Alphas on the Move, c/o The Sphinx for this continuing feature
Brother WILLIE L CLARK, JR was appointed a division chief in the U S Department of Labor's LaborManagement Services Administration (LMSA) A three-year employee with LMSA, Brother Clark was named Chief - Division of Regulations and Administrative Rulings in LMSA's Office of Federal Labor-Management Relations. This section of LMSA has responsibility for determining proper bargaining units for Federal employees, supervising the conduct of representation elections and reviewing charges of unfair labor practices At the time of his appointment, Brother Clark was engaged as a Federal labor-management specialist in the same office He also served with the National Labor Relations Board for six years, both as a law clerk and a field attorney
Though a native of Waynesboro, Georgia, Brother Clark is presently a resident of Silver Spring, Maryland, where he is a member of lota Upsilon Chapter He is the holder of a B.S degree in Political Science from Morehouse College and an L.L.B from Howard University He is also a member of the District of Columbia Bar and the Board of Directors of the Christian Federal Credit Union in Washington, DC
A member of Chicago's Xi Lambda Chapter, Brother Coleman is the holder of a B.S degree in Sociology from Loyola University It was noted that his autobiography—"Whatever I Can't Have" (published by Regensteiner Company)-is used as a supplementary text in public schools
Coleman and his wife, Joyce, have one son, Chris, age 4 Brother Coleman was a prominent figure in the 1974 General Convention in San Francisco where the Senior Vice President of Container Corporation of America, Mr. Richard Bittenbender, accepted Alpha Phi Alpha's Equitable Opportunities Award on behalf of the firm
Brother JAMES L. COLEMAN, Manager of Corporate Recruitment and Training Division of Container Corporation of America, was featured in the Speaking of People section of the January edition of EBONY Speaking of People, a regular feature of the magazine, spotlights Blacks in positions of responsibility in all phases of the business world
Brother JOHN L. COPELAND, Cum Laude graduate of Benedict College, Columbia, South Carolina, Chairman of the Foreign Language Department of Brien McMahon High School, Norwalk, Connecticut, has led his department to a ten year accreditation by the New England Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools The Department of Foreign Languages at Brien McMahon High School consists of 14 fulltime teachers, 2 student teachers, 2 teacher aides, 2 interns, and a full-time secretary. The school has an enrollment of 2,500 students with 55% of them enrolled in foreign languages. Six levels of French and Spanish, four levels of German, Italian and Latin, two levels of Spanish for Spanish-speaking students, and three levels of English as a second language are offered
Brother Copeland received the B.A Degree (Cum Laude) in French and Spanish from Benedict College, the M.A Degree in French and Spanish
from New York University, and the Sixth Year in Spanish from Colgate University; and, as a Fulbright Scholar he received the Diplome from the Sorbonne, University of Paris. Recently he received a Certificado from the University of Madrid, Spain During the summer, Brother Copeland travels extensively - having toured Europe six times He has also toured Africa, Asia, Mexico, and the Caribbean Brother Copeland is a former negotiator for the Norwalk Teachers Association, the Connecticut Education Association, and the National Education Association He was selected by the Norwalk Board of Education to conduct a study of the Atlanta, Georgia Public School System and the School System of Puerto Rico He holds membership in the Modern Language Association, the American Association of Teachers of French, the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese, the Connecticut Association for Bilingual Bicultural Education, Pi Delta Phi French Honorary Society, Sigma Delta Pi Spanish Honorary Society, Alpha Kappa Mu National Honor Society, and the Afro-American Educators of Norwalk He is a charter member of Gamma Pi Chapter (Benedict) of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and served as its first secretary Brother Copeland is Alpha's Life Member No 99
Brother RUNDELL V. EDISON, was appointed Principal of Jefferson Elementary School in Lawton, Oklahoma A member of Eta Xi Lambda Chapter, he received his B.A degree from Langston University in Langston, Oklahoma, in 1966, his Masters from
Brother James Huger elected to County Board in Florida
Brother Rundell Edison new high school principal in Oklahoma
Brother John Copeland outstanding foreign language educator
Brother S.T.E. Pickney first Black Mayor in Florida town
Southwestern College in Weatherford, Oklahoma, and his Administrative Certificate from the University of Oklahoma. Brother Edison joined the Lawton School System in 1967 as an elementary teacher and in 1970 became a visiting teacher.
He is active in many organizations, including the Oklahoma Education Association and the Langston University Alumni Association; he is Chairman of the Social Committee of the local chapter
Brother Edison's wife, Eunice, is also an administrator in the Lawton School System The Edisons have two children, Gregory (6) and Rhonda (2)
Chapter), Brother Hill currently serves as President of Alpha Mu Lambda Chapter in Knoxville
Brother MICHAEL EDWARDS received the Master of Arts degree from Roosevelt University in Chicago at commencement ceremonies on January 20, 1975 Brother Edwards, who earned his degree in Public Administration, worked his way from staff assistant to his present position as Executive Director of the Compliance Contract Division of Model CitiesChicago Committee on Urban Opportunity
Edwards, 26, received his bachelors degree from George Williams College, where he majored in physical education He became interested in public administration while enrolled in classes taught by Brother Erwin France, Director of Model Cities-CCUO
The young member of Xi Lambda Chapter received a joyous graduation "present" when his first son, Germaine, was born on the day before commencement exercises His wife, Jennifer, is a teacher
Brother EDWARD O. HILL, mathematics and science instructor at Beardsley Junior High School in Knoxville, Tennessee, was elected Chairman of the East Side Branch of the YMCA in that city Brother Hill has served on the Board of Trustees of the organization for 10 years He is a past Vice Chairman of the East Side Branch and is District Director from the Southern Region for the YMCA's Men's Clubs
Initiated into Alpha Phi Alpha at Knoxville College (Gamma Omicron
Brother (Dr.) JAMES E HUGER, Business Manager at BethuneCookman College, has been unanimously elected Chairman of the Volusia County Council, a position that has never before been held by a Black elected official
Being the first Black to be elected to a top post in the County is nothing new to Dr Huger; last year, he served as the County Council's Vice Chairman and was elected to a second term last November Prior to that, he was the first Black ever to be elected to the Daytona Beach City Commission, where he served three terms
Dr Huger, in accepting the new position, stated "I pledge to the Council, the staff, the news media and citizens, the kind of leadership that will make Volusia County the best County in Florida and, indeed, the whole USA With God's guidance, your help, and the cooperation of the citizens of the County, we will work toward the day when men of all races, creeds, color and national origins, will live together in peace and brotherhood God bless each one of you." he told fellow Councilmen.
Brother Huger, Life Member No 72, has been a dedicated servant of Alpha Phi Alpha for over 35 years, including stints as General Secretary (1952-57) and Southern Vice President (195860) He is a member of Beta Delta Lambda Chapter in Daytona, Florida
Brother THOMAS M. LAW, President of Kansas City (MO)'s Penn Valley Community College, was elected Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the American Association of Community Junior Colleges. Brother Law is the first Black board member in the Association's 74-year history
Life Member No 1630 - Brother Law is a member of Beta Lambda Chapter in Kansas City
Brother FREDRICK S HUMPHRIES, assumed duties as President of Tennessee State University in Nashville on January 1, 1975 A graduate of Florida A & M University and the University of Pittsburg, Dr Humphries was formerly Vice President of the Institute for Service to Education, a primarily Black organization that conducts research on curriculum development in Black colleges
Brother Humphries was initiated into Alpha Phi Alpha in 1954 at Florida A & M (Beta Nu Chapter)
Brother DAVID MOORE, a student at Bethune-Cookman College in Daytona, Florida, was one of the first two recipients of the Mary McLeod Bethune Medallion The Bethune Medallion is presented to those students who exhibit outstanding leadership qualities and make valuable contributions to the community and Bethune-Cookman College
A senior pre-medical major, Brother Moore is a member of the Board of Trustees of the college and President of the Student Government Association David is the son of Dr Richard V. Moore, President of Bethune-Cookman and Chairman of Alpha's National Committee on Grievance and Discipline. Brother Moore is a member of Delta Beta Chapter at BCC
Brother S. T. E. PICKNEY was sworn in as the first Black Mayor of Eustis, Florida, on January 7, 1975 He was elected to the Eustis Board of Commissioners in 1973 and earlier this year he was voted by the Board to become the first Black Mayor in the history of Eustis - and possibly of Florida's Lake County
Brother Pickney has been a resident of Eustis since 1958. Since that time, he has served as principal of Eustis Vocational High School, I.R.E High School (Wildwood) and Carver Heights High School (Leesburg) With the advent of integration, Pickney was named co-ordinator of all school principals in the Leesburg area He presently serves as County Co-ordinator of Migrant Education and Visiting Teachers Program
Brother Pickney and his wife, Mrs I B Pickney, have been married 27 years and have 6 grandchildren Their son is a school teacher in Orlando and
their daughter lives in Ohio, where she is employed by Proctor and Gamble as a technician
A Tallahassee native, Brother Pickney earned the B.S degree at Florida A & M University and the M.S degree at Tennessee State University He is presently a member of Beta Delta Lambda Chapter in Daytona, Florida
Brother JOHN H STROGER, JR a Commissioner of the Cook County Board, was appointed a member of the Executive Committee of the OliveHarvey College (Chicago) Community Advisory Board
Brother Stroger, a practicing attorney in Chicago, is a graduate of Xavier University and DePaul University School of Law He is Chairman of the Public Aid Committee of the Cook County Board of Commissioners and is a member of the Home Rule Commission of Cook County
Life Member No 1231,he is a member of Xi Lambda Chapter in Chicago
Brother C SUMNER "Chuck" STONE, has been named the M Lyle Spencer Visiting Professor in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communication at Syracuse University for the Spring 1975 semester Brother Stone, who is a writer for the Philadelphia Daily News and a nationally syndicated columnist (Universal Press Syndicate), is also host of a television program, ON TARGET, which is aired on WKBS-TV in Philadelphia
Chuck Stone enjoys a reputation as one of the most versatile and talented men in America today He has authored several books, including: Black Political Power in America, The Poetry of the Black Revolution, and Tell It Like It Is, and has collaborated in several others, including Contemporary Black Thought and The Best of the Black Scholar.
Brother Stone has accumulated vast experience in both politics and foreign affairs, serving as a Special Assistant to Representative Adam Clayton Powell and as Education Research Specialist for Representative Robert N. C Nix of Pennsylvania He was Associate Director of the American Committee on Africa in New York in
The Sphinx / February 1975
1960 and Overseas Representative for CARE in Gaza (Egypt) and India during 1956-57
One of the top journalists in the country, he was White House Correspondent and Editor for the Washington Afro-American (1960-63) and Editor-in-Chief of the Chicago Daily Defender (1963-64) He also served as a commentator on NBC's "Today Show" during 1969-70 Educational institutions across the nation have vied for Stone's services. From 1970-72 he served as Director of Minority Affairs for the Educational Testing Service in Princeton, New Jersey. Among the schools at which he
has lectured or taught are The AntiochPutney Graduate School of Education at the Philadelphia Center, Trinity College (Connecticut) and Columbia College in Chicago
Brother Stone is currently a member of the Board of Trustees of Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut; the State Board of Colleges and University Directors (Pennsylvania); the National Conference of Black Political Scientists; Fellow and Founding Member of the Black Academy of Arts and Letters; Contributing Editor of "The Black Scholar" Magazine; and, a host of other civic and educational organizations.
Theta
CHAPTER NEWS
EAST
Virginia
For approximately 15 years, Delta Nu Lambda Chapter has been inactive. Brothers of the Danville, Virginia, area lost about five of their stalwart brothers to Omega Chapter around that early period. Thechapter then began fading into inactivity with the remaining brothers taking up the yoke of community service to function busily in the numerous civic and business activities that were necessary to carry on in the spirit of Alpha . ..and eventually died Danville remained the viable community that ithad been, but Alpha as an organization was not present —only the spirit remained
On December 22, 1974, at the prior insistence ofBrother Ernest L Morse, Assistant Director of the Southern Area ofDistrict VII, Eastern Region, of A P A, a meeting of men of the Danville area was assembled Brothers of neighboring areas, Blue Ridge NorthVirginia and Epsilon Omicron Lambda of the Southern area, assembled along with District VII Director Henry Gray Gillem, Sr., and VACAPAF Secretary James Pierce to give support to the brothers of Delta Nu Lambda Chapter at its reactivation meeting
District VII - VACAPAF is proud to report (with submission of dues for eight brothers) that Delta Nu Lambda Chapter "was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found!" There are a number of other brothers ofthe area who have committed themselves to reactivation and will bemeeting with the chapter in January There are others of surrounding areas who will be recruited and reclaimed this following year We have been promised a viable and active chapter "for Life" in the near future Their Life Membership Drive was initia'ted by Brother Jerry L Williams, Sr.,
prominent Virginia Attorney and stalwart Alpha brother, who was pinned by Brother Gillem with his own Life Membership Pin
VACAPAF President Gillem expresses the spirit of this occasion through this quote:
"What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his neighbors, saying unto them, "Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost."
St Luke, 15
new jersey
Kappa Theta Lambda (whose members reside mostly in Bergen and Passaic counties) waschartered in 1973 bya small group of energetic and concerned brothers who recognized the great potential for the development of a strong and viable chapter in an area containing many current and potential Alpha men
The group chose as its first mission the reclamation of local brothers who had become inactive Secondly, the chapter set up a pledge club for potential Alpha men who had expressed interest in being initiated into Alpha
The first initiation ceremonies were conducted by the chapter on Saturday, May 18, 1974 The chapter was honored byhaving Brother Wisner on hand tohelp initiate the following new members: Dr Arthur O Chaney,Jr., who resides in Paramus and practices medicine in Hackensack; Mr. Lynwood O Jackson, who resides in Teaneck and is a detective in the Bergen County Sheriff's office; Dr. Albert L.Small, who resides inHillsdale and practices dentistry in Hackensack; and, Mr James William Turner, a medical
student at the New Jersey Collegeof Medicine in Newark
Following the initiation ceremonies, the brothers enjoyed awonderful dinner party with their wives and sweethearts atthe home of the host for the afternoon and evening, Brother Dr J Edison Brown of West Orange
Kappa Theta Lambda Chapter is currently comprised of 16 brothers: the 4 who were initiated and 4 who have been reclaimed during the year
The Chapter's major activities for 1974, in addition to the initiation, were as follows:
(1) Purchased a Life Membership in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People - of which $125.00 was paid
(2) Contributed $100.00 to the Legal Defense andEducational Fund
(3) Contributed $5.00 per chapter member to the SEHA L Drought Fund for Africa
During 1975, the chapter's commitments include the following:
(1) Payment of $125.00 on NAACP Life Membership;
(2) Contributions to the Legal Defense Fund and the Negro College Fund;and,
(3) Sending one under-privileged boy and one under-privileged girl to summer camp
The chapter is continuing its program of reclaiming inactive Alpha men and anticipates conducting another ceremony during the year to bring into the fold several other potentially excellent Alpha men who have expressed interest in pledging
The officers of Kappa Theta Lambda are:
President Brother Carey Jenkins
Vice President and Dean of Pledges
Brother O Jackson Cole
Treasurer Brother
Carlos Peay, Jr
Secretary Brother
Thomas D Ashley
Virginia
On December 7, 1974, the Tidewater South (Virginia) Area chapters sponsored a Civic Awards Banquet and Ball to benefit the Norfolk State College Scholarship Fund
Brother William T Syphax, newly elected Rector of Virginia State College in Petersburg and Eastern Coordinator for Alpha's "Commission on Business Encouragement," was the principal speaker at the banquet — held in honor of high achievers in civic and humanitarian affairs
Other activities included a gettogether for the Alpha Wives and a staff meeting of the Virginia Association of Chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity (VACAPAF), hosted by the Assistant Director for Tidewater South, Brother George W.C. Brown, Jr. Chapters in the Tidewater South Area include: Alpha Phi Lambda (Norfolk), Epsilon Nu Lambda (Portsmouth), Epsilon lota Lambda (Suffolk) and Epsilon Pi (Norfolk State College)
MIDWEST
indiana
In the Le Petit Palais Room of the Atkinson Hotel, before an overflow crowd of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity brothers and their guests, Brother Leon Bradford was named Alpha "Man of the Year" by lota Lambda, Chapter Brother Bradford received a standing ovation from his fellow brothers as he accepted the award from John H Warrick, Chapter President
"Alpha Phi Alpha - A Selfish Siren" was the topic of the keynote address delivered by Brother Bennie J Harris, Chattanooga (TN) Trial Judge and Southern Regional Vice President of Alpha Phi Alpha
An impressive memorial ceremony was performed by the Men of Alpha in honor of their brothers who have passed on into Omega Chapter.. and dedicated to the memory of Jewel Dr Henry Arthur Callis (the last of the seven founders of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity) who joined Omega Chapter on November 12th of last year
Life Members, Life Membership Subscribers and their wives and guests, was part of the chapter's continuing effort to boost "Alpha Phi Alpha for Life."
Earlier, on December 13, 1974, the chapter celebrated the 68th Anniversary of the Fraternity and the 27th Anniversary of the chapter at a Founder's Day Program attended by over 90 brothers During the program, an impressive candlelight service memorialized the transfer of the following brothers to Omega Chapter:
JewelHenry Arthur Callis
Bro James Christy Bro JamesH Hewlett, Jr
Bro Kenneth W Clements Bro Juan Nabors
Bro Louie G Evans Bro Clarence L Sharpe
Bro William A George Bro Charles 0 Webb
Top billing during the Founder's Day program was given to the presentation of chapter awards Special awards were presented to:
Bro Nolan Ellison "Achievement in Education"
Bro Quinn Montgomery "Alpha Seniority" (1974)
Bro Omar Leatherman "Alpha Seniority" (1971)
Bro Perry Jackson "Alpha Seniority" (1915)
Bro N.K Christopher "Alpha Seniority" (1916
Bro Hatcher Day & Bro Jasper Day
"Alpha Father (1935) and Son" (1971)
Guiding Delta Alpha Lambda for this fraternal year are the following officers:
Bro Kenneth Norris President
Bro Omar Leatherman Vice President
Bro Andrew Venable Corresponding Secretary
Bro William Travis Recording Secretary
Bro Glenn Zellers Financial Secretary
Bro Jerome McClain Treasurer
Bro Elmer Collins
Editor-to-Sphinx
Bro Hatcher Day Clfaplain
Brother George Connally and DAL's Travel Committee (who coordinated last year's jam-packed charter flight to San Francisco) are currently making plans for a group travel package to the 69th Anniversary Convention in Miami Brothers in Ohio and across the Midwest should look for news as the plans are finalized. "Fly Me To Miami!"
ohio
Delta Alpha Lambda Chapter in Cleveland, Ohio, held its second annual Life Member Party on Saturday, February 1, 1975, in Euclid, Ohio The affair, which was attended by fully-paid
INDY lota Lambda President John Warrick presided over the chapter's Founder's Day Program along with Brother Joseph Taylor, Program Chairman. Pictured at the event are (left to right): Bro. Bennie Harris, Southern Regional Vice President of Alpha Phi Alpha and keynote speaker at the banquet: Bro. Leon Bradford, who was cited as the chapter's "Alpha Man of the Year:" and chapter President Warrick, lota Lambda, the oldest chapter in the State of Indiana, has been chosen the host for the 1976 Midwestern Regional Convention.
Illinois
Eta Tau Chapter at Illinois State University was chartered on October 9, 1971, in an impressive ceremony held on the campus of Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois Since that time, the chapter has rapidly established a reputation as one of the most outstanding in all of Alphadom
The brothers of Eta Tau are considered leaders in the ISU community and constantly strive to project Alpha's image as community servants Through its Community Service Committee, the chapter participates in various youth programs in the city of Peoria Other programs include a tutoring and counseling program and a food drive for needy families, although the latter has experienced recent difficulties due to the tight money market In 1974, Eta Tau was host for the Illinois State Convention, which was attended by many brothers in the state and throughout the Midwest
The "pride" of Eta Tau is their recently occupied fraternity house, known as "Eta Tau Manor." Located at 1006 N School Street, Normal, Illinois, the "Manor" is a center of chapter activities and serves to foster togetherness among the brothers After a dedicated effort by chapter members—which was encouraged and assisted by Eastern Illinois Regional Director Bill Ridgeway, Alpha's Building Foundation Chairman J.L Hunt, Midwestern Vice President James R Williams and former Midwestern
Assistant Vice President Steven L Jones (a former chapter member) —
Eta Tau was able to secure the facility which meets and surpasses all of the fraternity and university housing requirements There are now 21 brothers residing in the house, which has a living capacity for 42 The chapter's future in Eta Tau Manor is unsure for the 1975-76 school year since at least 10 brothers will leave via graduation or student-teaching — but the brothers of Eta Tau note that they refuse to try to initiate brothers merely to retain the house Eta Tau's corresponding secretary states, "We make brothers, not members."
With the "spirit of 1906" firmly in their hearts and minds, the brothers of Eta Tau continually plan to make worthwhile contributions to the community With their next function planned for March 22, 1975 YOU and all
brothers are invited to visit "Mighty HT" - Eta Tau Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc
georgia
The brothers of Zeta Pi Chapter at the University of Georga in Athens declared November 18th thru 23rd —"Alpha Week."
The idea behind highlighting the entire week with chapter activities was to promote a sense of unity between the ranks of the several Black Greek organizations on the predominately white campus while furthering the active image of Zeta Pi (Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity) as well. Also, the brothers wanted to increase the awareness of the entire University community of the Black Greek situation and thereby point out its relevancy
On the night of (Monday) the 18th, the brothers began "Alpha Week" with a talent show A small, but enthusiastic number of individuals participated, resulting in a fun-filled as well as entertaining experience for all. We were off to a good start!
The following Tuesday brought on "Black Greek Solidarity Day." The Presidents of each of the Black Greek organizations on campus were invited to participate in a forum giving the histories of their respective
organizations and chapters Also on Tuesday, all members of each Black Greek organization wore their fraternity or sorority jerseys identifying them with their respective organizations.
On Wednesday, Attorney Kenneth Dious, a native Athenian and the first and only Black attorney practicing law in the Athens area, was the scheduled speaker in a program held outside the student union building Attorney Dious is a recent graduate of the University's Law School and is a member of the Eta lota Lambda Chapter in the city of Athens.
With Thursday came the staging of a dynamic Greek Show given by the brothers and two aspiring initiates; following was their treasured initiation into the ranks of Alphadom
Friday was the climactic ending of "Alpha Week," with our annual Black and Gold Ball held that night It was a magnificently grand affair! The Queen
"Miss Black and Gold" (who was meticulously picked from a bevy of 22 delightful young ladies — was crowned in the glorious splendor of the evening The queen's court and seven young ladies designated "Alpha Sweethearts" were also chosen
Needless to say, Zeta Pi's "Alpha Week" was a grand success for all concerned.
morris brown
During the past school term (197374), lota Chapter at Morris Brown College in Atlanta, Georgia, has made various contributions to the community and Morris Brown One of these contributions was awarding a Five Hundred Dollar ($500.00) Scholarship to the school which was distributed among the top five (5) freshmen based on academic excellence, lota has presented scholarships similar to this one in the past, but this was the most outstanding and one where much publicity was given
Other contributions the chapter made in the community as well as the college campus were successful too At the Miss Morris Brown College's Coronation, the brothers of lota were called upon to assist in the decorating and escorting the various queens To improve the social lives of the student body, lota sponsored parties, beer blasts, picnics, and many other social activities
Again, lota was called upon to assist the Coordinator of the newly formed Cooperative Education Program in promoting the program at Morris Brown But probably the greatest contribution lota made was during Dr Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Celebration March The brothers, with great pride, served as Parade Marshalls in celebrating the birthday of their deceased brother
The brothers of lota have shown the true meaning of Alpha They have proven to be the most respectful men on campus as well as being the Number One fraternity KEEP IT UP BROTHERS!
florida
Judge Edward Rogers of West Palm Beach, Florida, was the guest speaker at the Founders Day celebration of Beta Beta Lambda Chapter in Miami Judge Rogers chose an Alpha slogan, "A Voteless People is a Hopeless People" as his theme and urged Alpha men to take the initiative in 1975 to improve human conditions by utilizing the ballot
Another highlight of the affair was the naming of Beta Beta Lambda's "Alpha Man of the Year." The words of the chapter's president, Brother George Koonce, illustrate the value of this coveted title In presenting the award he stated,
"Each year we search our hearts, minds, and souls to seek out that brother who, in our fraternal opinion, distinguishes himself in a community of great men. The task was awesome. However, in sifting through archives of our celebrated chapter, we found a common thread that linked one brother to every activity in a continuous manner. In our brotherly judgment, this 'Servant of All' represents the nerve center of our effective communicative process; and is an indispensable factor in the day-to-day operation of Beta Beta Lambda. He has very skillfully organized his professional responsibilities to compliment his fraternal obligations so as to provide for the smooth transaction of chapter affairs. This brother devotes himself totally without fanfare or public recognition to the myriad of mundane
tasks totally and absolutely essential to the successful operations of an Alpha chapter. His phone is constantly busy with inquiries from the brotherhood concerning information about the fraternity and chapter activities, i.e., passcards, meeting places, life membership, and the famous line about a Sphinx magazine or an announcement that was not received. Our honoree, always with a sense of duty and brotherhood responds promptly and positively to demands placed upon him.
In full recognition of the thousands of chapters around the continent, I personally and very honestly believe that the distinguished brother is by far the most knowledgeable chapter secretary in all of Alphadom. And, on behalf of the eighth largest chapter in Alpha Phi Alpha, we recognize — with fraternal pride — as Alpha Man of the Year, Brother FRANKLIN CLARK."
Brother Clark, Life Member No 910, is approaching the twenty year mark in active service to the brotherhood He was initiated at Delta Psi Chapter at Florida Memorial College, and was also secretary for that chapter immediately after his initiation
tougaloo
On January 15th, Gamma Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity presented "A BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE TO MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR." The program consisted of recordings of Dr King's speeches: "I Have A Dream" and "Non-Violent Approach," with music provided by the Tougaloo Gospel Choir Brother Thurgood Price lead the devotion, reading scriptures from Ecclesiastes 3:1-12, and Brother Charles Banks (Assistant Vice President of the Southern Region) spoke on the occasion
Ms Lou Holloway, Associate Professor of History at Tougaloo College and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, addressed the solemn assembly of students and community members Ms Holloway's speech was entitled:
" And the others said, 'Lord Have Mercy!:' The Response of Black Women Artists to Martin Luther King's Assassination."
Using the words of Gwendolyn Brooks, Mari Evans, Nikki Giovanni, Margaret Walker, Nina Simone and Alice Walker, she reawakened the anger, the confusion, horror and utter anguish we felt on April 4, 1968 We relived the incident that many of us have tried to displace over the past seven years
This reawakening was perhaps the greatest tribute anyone could have given to our late leader Ms Holloway's speech (soon to be published in Presence Affricaine) returned many of our values to their proper perspectives. The audience and the brothers left feeling that they had, indeed, paid tribute to a great man
tennessee
Mr Booker T Scruggs, II, Instructional Coordinator of Special Services' "Upward Bound Program," University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, recently delivered the keynote address for Psi Lambda and Eta Phi Chapters' Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity's Founders Day Observance In relating an overview of his impressions of Alpha's meaning to the Black community, Mr Scruggs stated that the history of Alpha is consistent and reflective of the past and present needs of the Black community He cited the need for broader community interest and involvement in the attainment of improved socio-economic standards thru: Academic Education, Leadership, Political Awareness! Humanitarism and Achievement Orientation Scruggs stated that there is a pressing need to educate and develop more Black professionals and technicians in fields other than the Social Sciences—in combating the problems of juvenile delinquency, housing discrimination and drug abuse, the burden of responsibility especially rests with Black leaders to give their community direction and leadership; and, that the Black community must continue to register and vote in order to alleviate some problems and voice their concern through the electorate process, especially at the local and state level.
Special recognition also was given in the program to Dr J M Bynes and Rev J B Barber, two of the original founders and charter members of Alpha's Psi Lambda Chapter
SOUTHWEST texas
Alpha's Kappa Sigma Lambda Chapter was founded in the KilleenFort Hood, Texas, area during the period August - November 1974 The brothers listed below are charter members:
'Brother (MAJ)CharlesA. Green President
"Brother (LTC)EarlRodneyBrooks Vice President
Brother(LTC) AcieMcGhee, Jr Secretary
Brother(LT)James Kirkwood Treasurer
Brother(CPT)StanleyEvans Chaplain
Brother(LT)MichaelColeman. Editor-to-the-Sphinx
Brother(CPT)MarionD Wimberly Parliamentarian
Brother(LT)WalterLane Sergeant-at-Arms
Brother(LT)MichaelBuster Dean of Pledges
Brother(MAJ)James Poole Historian
Brother(LT)RobertN Balenton Member
Brother(LT)KerryM Brown Member
Brother(LT)RobertE Harris Member
Brother(LT)CecilPoole Member
Brother(LT)WillardRobinson Member
Brother(LT)Daniel Taylor Member BrotherAlexanderVernon Member
"Life Member
As an integral part of our first article, we wish to include a photograph and brief biographical sketch of our first chapter president and chapter secretary
Major Charles A Green is a native of Cincinnati, Ohio He received his B.S degree from Central State University, Wilberforce, Ohio, in 1961, and subsequently a Masters of Art from Central Michigan University, Mt Pleasant, Michigan, in 1974.Heispas t President of Theta Delta Lambda, El Paso, Texas, and former member of the Texas Council of Chapters He is married to the former Carol J. Patton of Cincinnati (OH) They and their three sons are now residing in Copperas Cove, Texas, where Mrs. Green is a homebound school teacher Brother Green is presently assigned to headquarters Modern Army Selected Systems Test Evaluation and Review (MASSTER) at Fort Hood, Texas
Lieutenant Colonel Acie McGhee, Jr., is a native of Boomton, Alabama He received his education in WestVirginia, culminating with a B.S in Education from West Virginia State College, in 1954 During his undergraduate years, he held positions as President, Secretary, and Treasurer of Alpha Zeta at West Virginia State
Brother McGhee was the primary individual instrumental in the founding of our new chapter Brother McGhee presently resides in Killeen with his wife, Louise (President of the local Alumni Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta), and their three children: Cornell, Rena, and Myron
Oklahoma
Eta Xi Lambda, the Lawton/Ft Sill Alumni Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha, recently installed its officers for the year 1975, with Brother LTC (RET) Browder A. Willis administering the oaths
Installed as President for the second year was Brother LTC Remus C Rhodes, III; Vice President - Brother LTC Robert W Salley Secretary for the third year is Brother Major Eldridge W McMillan, Jr.; Assistant SecretaryBrother CPT Archer R McPhaul; Treasurer - Brother LT Floyd E Rogers; Dean of Pledgees -Brother LT James Macon; and, Editor to the Sphinx -Brother LT Juan P Gray
Brother LTC Rhodes made many complimentary remarks at the first meeting of 1975 on how well he was pleased with his staff of 1974 and the support they rendered during his first tenure as president of Eta Xi Lambda Chapter Additional comments concerned the success and services of the chapter as a whole for the year 1974, because the chapter was involved in many community affairs and was well represented nationally among its members — including Brother Major Eldridge W McMillan, who was selected as the most outstanding alumni brother in promoting the Life Membership Program, and Brother Dr Jesse R Wright, who was selected runner-up for the most outstanding alumni brother Local chapter awards was given (at a banquet) to certain brothers for their achievements and services rendered to the fraternity both locally and nationally for the year 1974 Receiving awards were Brother CPT Lloyd N. Hill (for the services he contributed locally) and the Chapter President, Brother LTC Rhodes (for his participation and services nationally).
Perhaps the highlight of the year is the establishing of an under-graduate chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha at Cameron University, located in Lawton, Oklahoma On December 6, 1974, thir-
Mr. Booker T. Scruggs, II served as the keynote speaker for the joint Founder's Day observance held by Psi Lambda and Eta Phi chapters in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Major Charles A. Green was elected the first President of Alpha's newly chartered Kappa Sigma Lambda Chapter, located in the Killeen-Fort Hood, Texas, area.
teen young men from Cameron were initiated into the Fraternity through the Oklahoma University Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha These young men are now waiting to receive their charter Farewell was rendered to several brothers who have recently departed the chapter: Brother CPT Lloyd N Hill, Brother Lewis Gray, and Brother Alfonso Beatty.
texas
Epsilon Tau Lambda Chapter in Prairie View, Texas, lives up to the ideals of Alpha Phi Alpha by participating in community affairs Accordingly, the chapter financially supported Brothers Clyde Christopher and
Gamma Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Tougaloo College, Tougaloo, Mississippi, presented "A BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE TO MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR." on January 15th. Pictured at the event are: (standing • left to right) Bro. Oliver Rice, George Owens, President of Tougaloo College, Bro. Ronnie Carter, keynote speaker Ms. Lou Holloway of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Bro. Thurgood Price, Mr. K.C. Morrison, Bro. Robert Donnell, and Bro. Willie Perkins. (Kneeling - left to right) Bro. Isaac Perkins, Bro. Charles Banks the Southern Regional Assistant Vice President, and Bro. Eddie Whitehead.
Jacob Boyer in their successful campaigns for public office
The budget for the current year was increased to provide an additional One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) scholarship for an outstanding Prairie View student, regardless of financial needs; the chapter provides the same scholarship for an outstanding student who needs financial assistance.
The rapport between the graduate and undergraduate chapters had a great beginning at the graduate chapter's regular meeting, where the members of the undergraduate chapter were guests There was an atmosphere of true Alpha spirit and brotherhood—that we hope will exist throughout the year
The Founder's Day Program was jointly sponsored, and brothers from
both chapters appeared on the program
An inspiring and thought provoking address was delivered by Brother Hector Grant of Huston-Tillotson College
He emphasized the necessity of transforming situations for the betterment of mankind rather than conforming To do so, we must have liberated mind and behavior
Brothers Jacob Boyer, H T Jones, Raymond Carreathers (President) and T P Dooley represented the chapter at the annual convention.
New officers for the current year are:
James Johnson President (replacing Carreathers, who is taking a leave of absence to study toward his Doctorate Degree)
Carl Moore Vice President
Clifton Harvey Secretary
Jiles Daniels:Corresponding Secretary
Griff Kendrick Financial Secretary
H R Turner Treasurer
Vernon Black Parliamentarian
T R Solomon
Historian T P Dooley Editor of Sphinx
I T Gordon Chaplain
H.T. Jones Sergeant-At-Arms
texas
The brothers of Delta Rho Lambda (San Antonio, Texas) celebrated a series of activities starting with a Founder's Day breakfast Speaker for the occasion was Brother Rev Prenza L Woods, Associate Program Director, Southwest Texas Conference, United Methodist Church Brother William Hays, Jr., gave a tribute to the national founders and the founders of Delta Rho Lambda Chapter - Brothers Bernard Adams, U J Andrews, John McDonald, Reginald Pickard, Roland J Martin and John Warren Others appearing on program were the chairmen, Brother John Warren, Master of Ceremonies Andrew Richardson, and the president, Brother John D McDonald
Hell Week was highlighted with the initiation of two Alphamen, Brothers Lanier Byrd and Robert Kelly
The two weeks of activities were climaxed on the day after Thanksgiving, when Alphas gathered from near and far for the Eighth Annual Toy Dance — one of the most brilliant and elite social affairs in central Texas
Several hundred guests braved the coldest night of the year to attend the dance at Villite Assembly Hall, where they felt more than rewarded for their efforts While it was cold outside, nothing but warmth prevailed inside from the hospitality of the hosts (who plied their guests with delicious food and drinks), the magic glow of festive holiday decorations throughtout the ballroom, and the warm cordiality of the guests, who rallied to the cause by bringing the largest and most beautiful collection of toys since the inception of the project some seven years ago All of the toys went to make Christmas happier for economically - deprived families who otherwise might have been forgotten The beautiful table covers - all done up with the A P A insignia - were the handiwork of the charming and enterprising wives of the
Alphas. Serving as project chairman was Brother Reginald Pickard.
The year of 1974 came to an end with the installation of new officers:
President John McDonald
Vice President. . . . Richard E. Calhoun
Secretary Timothy Nicholson
Asst Secretary Claude Wilson
Financial
Secretary Andrew Richardson, III
Treasurer Randolph Harris
Executive
Lay Members
U.J Andrews
Allen F Melonson
Historian Alvon Armstead
Sergeant-at-Arms Frank Evans
Director of
Education
Ernest Stevenson
WEST
san
diego
Eta Sigma Chapter is a Metropolitan Chapter located in San Diego, California Chartered in December, 1971, it has had its setbacks and momentous frustrations in its efforts to become a viable chapter Instrumental in the char-
tering and survival of Eta Sigma is alumni brother and Regional Director Samuel McElroy, Jr.
Brothers of Eta Sigma are working members of the Regional Convention planning committee One of the chapter's commitments is an increase in its membership by convention time. Through the diligent work of Brothers Conley Major, President; Eric Payne, Dean of Pledges; and the supporting membership, this commitment should easily be met
The chapter's social calendar saw the members attending a Halloween Boat Dance in the Fall, responding to a long-standing Kappa Alpha Psi bowling challenge, designing and tailoring uniform chapter attire for casual occasions, and participating in fundraising activities Eta Sigma was also co-host for the Annual Christmas Dance, the highlight of the Christmas season in San Diego, which was attended by the Regional Vice President and many out of town brothers and friends
The brothers of Eta Sigma Chapter invite brothers from throughout all Alphadom to attend the upcoming Western Regional Convention in our beautiful city just north of the Mexican border
HThe members of Eta Sigma Chapter served as co-hosts with Zeta Sigma Lambda Chapter for Alpha's annual Christmas Dance in San Diego, California. The two chapters will also co-sponsor the up-coming Western Regional Convention March 27th thru 29th. Shown at the Christmas affair are : (standing • left to right) Bro. Samuel McElroy, named "Alpha Man of the Year" at the event, Bros. Norman Hall, Vince Moran, Sam Thomas and Preston Staten of Eta Sigma Chapter, and Bro. Thadeaus Hobbs the Western Regional Vice President; (kneeling - left to right) a visiting brother from Seattle, Washington, and Bros. Ray McElroy and Eric Payne of Eta Sigma.
bridging the gap
Illustration by Orticke
Sixteen years after a child enters primary school, society declares him a working man Barring unforseen circumstances, and with monumental sacrifices on the part of a dedicated few, this man, provided he attends an acceptable institution of higher learning, is labeled a professional.
During the latter half of adolescence, the post high school years, he becomes a part of a new, exciting, elite community, the college campus Although completely on his own, perhaps for the first time, he confidently ventures forth in preparation to compete with the giants in the economic cosmos, the world about him At the completion of this first phase of specialization, the attainment of a baccalaureate degree he chooses either to become a full-time member of the working class, or go on to graduate studies. In either instance, he has achieved and is accepted by the majority as having proper credentials
What happens when he must leave? On campus the association with peers provided a warm feeling of security, a sense of belonging and a healthy spirit of competition. For the most part graduation day brings with it an end for many of these associations Unlike many of the organizations, the fraternity has provided for thousands that bridge to span the space from college days to working days.
Of all the training grounds available for self-improvement, of the many organizational affiliations open to us, few if any equal in the personal interest shown for its membership as does the common bond of brotherhood. No closer can the bond be found than in the House of Alpha Phi Alpha
Omicron Lambda Alpha, for nearly a quarter of a century, has held place in this organization For all of its existence,
OLA has been home for Alpha men in the Washington, D.C., area OLA was chartered for brothers in "tradition" — and as such was, for several years, a transient chapter in which a member remained active for 4 years maximum, or for the duration of his professional school training During recent years, however, that trend has changed and a stable membership has emerged
For the past two years, Omicron Lambda Alpha has been guided by President Phillip N Orticke, Jr., a full-time law student at Georgetown University and an employee of the U.S Department of Transportation Brother Orticke does not move by blood alone, but with the nectar of Alpha flowing in his veins Under his leadership, Omicron Lambda Alpha's membership has increased with initiates and reclaimed brothers; the Life Membership program of the chapter has now more than half the active roster involved
Omicron Lambda Alpha takes pride in discounting the tale, "Fraternalism is dying on Black campuses." Not only is OLA's membership composed to a significant degree of professional and graduate students, but we enjoy, in addition, a very close working and competitive relationship with neighboring college chapters, Howard University's Beta chapter, in particular
Within the community, Omicron Lambda Alpha extends the outreach philosophy espoused by the national organization. Not only from chapter organized activities, but on individual bases as well, OLA members are working to build a better community through such efforts as income-tax clinics for indigent residents, low-income housing rehabilitation projects; "Big Brothers;" tutorials. From local politics to community organizations, the members of OLA are involved
This spring, as we have each year since 1952, OLA will conduct a pledge period for interested candidates We in OLA pride ourselves in our selectivity and are ever confident that our choices represent the highest quality for all of Alpha This year's pledge committee is spearheaded by Brother Byron Grayson, customer representative, C & P Telephone Company. He is assisted by Brother Robert Lilly, personnel department staff member of Howard University During this year's annual smoker, brothers and guests were treated to an inspiring piece of Alpha nostalgia by Brother Dr Walter Booker, past Eastern Region Vice President and responsible individual for OLA's existence
In its 23 year history, OLA has been home for scores of graduates in such professional schools as Law, Medicine, Dentistry, and Business.The 1975 roster contains in addition to students, teachers in the D.C public school system; administrators and professors in area universities; practicing attorneys; owners of small businesses; senior and mid-level management officials for local and federal government agencies and private industry OLA is a good company of men, and it's good to return to it if circumstances force you to part, temporarily. Such is the case with Brother Dr. Willie Ruff, who, after two years of post-graduate studies in Washington state, returned this year to Howard University's College of Medicine and OLA
Here in the Nation's capitol with its many diversions, the temptation, and often, a genuine need to disassociate oneself with any cause or group (particularly in the formative years of a career) is heightened Omicron Lambda Alpha offers a program that allays that temptation The members of OLA are involved and suggest that true involvement is a vital element for sustaining the life of a chapter
Albert T Reliford Associate Editor to the Sphinx
EGA CHAPTER
Brother LEON ALEXANDER SWEENEY, of Neptune, New Jersey, one of the most respected educators in New Jersey and a man who lived in the epitome of the Alpha Phi Alpha tradition, died November 7, 1974, at the age of 41 at Monmouth Medical Center, Long Branch, New Jersey
Brother Sweeney, a past resident of the Zeta Epsilon Lambda Chapter of the New Jersey Shore Area, was Assistant Superintendent of the Matawan Regional School District Among his duties were those of Director of Federal Projects, Director of Special Services and Director of Reading
Inaddition to his duties in the Matawan system, he taught a class for adults in special services, was Adjunct Professor of Psychology at Brookdale Community College, Lincroft (NJ), President of the Board of Directors of the Harbor School (for neurologically impaired children), Red Bank (NJ), and a member of the Association for Children with Learning Disabilities.
Brother Sweeney was also active in a variety of civic groups He was Vice President of the Matawan Teachers and Administrators Association, on the Board of Directors of the Monmouth-Ocean Teachers Credit Union, a member of the United Teachers Association and the American Association of School Administrators and served in the Lions and Rotary Clubs
He also found time for sports - and was a licensed owner of standard-bred horses, racing them for the past two years at Freehold Raceway. He belonged to the U.S. Trotting Association.
Brother Sweeney was responsible for many innovative educational programs, among which were the Harbor School, a pre-school for the handicapped, special classes for perceptually impaired and expansion of career education programs
His genius did not go unrecognized The Bayshore Chapter of the National Council of B'nai B'rith presented him with the Hannah E. Solomon Award in 1969; in 1971, he received the Outstanding Educator Award in Matawan and (the same year) the New Jersey Outstanding Educator Award of the Association of Children with Learning Disabilities Just prior to his death, he received the 1973-74 award from the Academy of American Educators
Brother Sweeney, who received his B.S degree in Education from Cheyney State College (PA) and his M.S degree from Kean State College (NJ), was also a member of the Frederick Dempsey Post 266, American Legion, Neptune, New Jersey He served in the Army during the Korean War and was awarded the Korean Service Medal, UN Service Medal, Civil Defense Service Medal, and Good Conduct Medal
The brothers of Zeta Epsilon Lambda served as his pallbearers - and the chapter conducted a moving memorial service for him
He is survived by his wife, Janice, a son (Michael) and two daughters (Sherri and Jacqueline), and his parents, who along with his many friends and relatives mourn their untimely loss
• Services were recently held in Middletown, Ohio, for Dr. WILLIAM D PATTON, 57, ageneral practitioner of medicine affiliated with the Middletown Hospital.
While a student at Fisk University, Brother Patton became an Alpha through Alpha Chi Chapter and had the honor of being listed in "Who's Who in American Colleges and Universities," he graduated in 1941 In 1944 he completed his medical training at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee
He served for several years as secretary of the staff of Middletown Hospital and as a member (for 1 7 years) of the Board of Health -being its president from 1964 to 1966
Interested in youth, he was physician for Middletown High School's athletic teams and named by them an honorary member of their Varsity Club
Brother Patton was a member of the Human Relations Council of Middletown His community honored him in 1973 when it staged a civic salute where he was recipient of the Governor's Award for Community Activities and listed in "Who's Who in Ohio."
Affiliated with the American Medical Association and the National Medical Association, Brother Patton also served on the Butler County Welfare Advisory Board and the Board of Trustees of the Doty Home for Crippled Children
LEON ALEXANDER SWEENEY
EDWIN KENNETH McDONALD (Sr.), M.D.
Brother EDWIN KENNETH McDONALD (Sr.), M.D., departed this life on Thursday, January 2, 1975, at 9:35 a.m Born on May 7, 1892, in Birmingham, Alabama, Brother McDonald was the oldest son of the late John Henry and Ella McDonald His childhood education was obtained in the Birmingham Public School He attended Mile Memorial College in Birmingham and Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee After receiving his B.S. degree in Chemistry from Fisk, in 1917, he attended Northwestern University Medical School (Illinois) and was one of the first of his race to receive a Medical Degree from Northwestern, in 1923
After graduation from Medical School and subsequent internship at Provident Hospital (Chicago), Dr McDonald conducted a very successful practice, specializing (for over 50 years) in Pediatrics in the Chicago area He did post graduate medical training at Cook County Hospital (Chicago) and received a Fellowship for additional study in Pediatrics at the University of Chicago in 1931,with related clinical training in Children's Memorial Hospital (also in Chicago)
Certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, Brother McDonald was elected a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics on October 15, 1971 He served as associated attending Pediatrician at Provident Hospital and was also Conductor of the Children's Heart Clinic there.
Brother McDonald was a life member of the NAACP and active with the Chicago Urban League, serving on its Civic Committee
Three times Brother McDonald served as President of Alpha's Xi Lambda Chapter in Chicago He was a former President of the Cook County Physicians Association and a member of both the National Medical Association and the American Medical Association He was a former Vice President of the Chicago Fisk Club, and was one of the founders of the Jubilee Temple A.M.E. Church in Chicago.
Brother McDonald's widow, Joanna, was a schoolmate at Fisk Univeristy and a former faculty member of Virginia Union University She and their children (a daughter and three sons) and grandchildren - along with a host of friends and relatives -are left to mourn his loss
• Brother CORNELL W. HAWKINS, a member of Delta Alpha Lambda, Cleveland, Ohio (Omega Chapter -January 4, 1975)
• Brother CHARLES ("Chuck") NESBITT of Cambridge, Massachusetts; a member of Epsilon Gamma Lambda Chapter (Omega Chapter -November 22, 1974)
The Sphinx / February 19 75
FRED D. ATWATER
Yes, Brother FRED D. ATWATER has joined a host of his brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha — in OMEGA Chapter Born in September of 1904, Brother Atwater passed at 9:45 a.m on January 28, 1975, in Harlem Hospital (New York City) Alpha memorial services were held February 8th, in Brunswick, Georgia, for this 50-year brother: Life Member No 194
The name of FRED D ATWATER is synonymous with the "CONVENTION HALLS OF ALPHA PHI ALPHA." Those thousands of brothers who regularly participated in General Conventions over the years, will ever hold in their minds the picture of Brother Atwater going about his official functions as Sergeant-at-Arms, trying to keep and maintain order in session — and we can all hear-that bigVoice of his bellowing: "ORDER, BROTHERS."
To have known Brother Atwater was to have admired and cherished all that a true man could offer making himself worhty of that calling
It is hardly conceivable to speak of the dead and think of Brother Atwater at the same time His many years of activity in Alpha Phi Alpha - from college days to Life Membership days - make him, in a sense, of legendary proportions; so we speak of him glowingly, not because he is dead but because he lived and made those of us who are left behind beneficiaries of his well-lived life
All Alpha Phi Alpha mourns the passing of Brother Fred D Atwater, and rejoice in the knowledge that he has truly wrapped the drapery of his couch about him, and now lies down to pleasant dreams MAY HE REST IN PEACE
Lawrence T. Young, Sr.
ALPHA PHI ALPHA
FRATERNITY, INC.
GENERAL OFFICE
4432 Martin Luther King Drive
Chicago, Illinois 60653
Jewels, Omega Chapter: Henry A Callis, M.D
Charles H Chapman Eugene Kinckle Jones George B Kelley Nathaniel A Murray Robert H Ogle • Vertner W Tandy
Officers
General President — Walter Washington Alcorn A and M College, Lorman, Miss 39096
Executive Secretary — William H Walker 4432 Martin Luther King Dr., Chicago, III 60653
General Treasurer — Leven C Weiss ..4676 W Outer Drive, Detroit, Michigan 48235
General Counsel — Albert Holland, Jr 31 Hickory Hill Rd., Tappan N Y Hfstonan — Charles H Wesley 1824 Taylor Street, N W., Washington, D.C 20011
Comptroller — Chas C Teamer 2601 Gentilly Blvd., New Orleans La 70122
Director-General Conventions — Kermit J Hall 100 Fairview Ave. Yeadon Penn 19050 Vice Presidents
Eastern — Charles P Howard, Jr 1500 American Building, Baltimore, Maryland 21202
Midwestern — James R Williams 1 Cascade Plaza, #1908, Akron, Ohio 44308
