The SPHINX | Summer 1990 | Volume 76 | Number 2 199007602

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, I N C I J VOLUME 76

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SUMMER 1990

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l - S I H O U R S H I P . LE.4WKHIP & SERVICE As another school V ear comes to an end, ,1 selecl number of Chapters and Brothers are preparing their entries for the competition in Miami Beach. This issues revisits the winners from 1489 The College Brother of the Year (Jovier Evans) is featured on Page 9 and the College Chapter of the Year (Mu Alpha, Emory University) is on Page II. The past year's top Alumni Brother (Herman "Skip" Mason) is reviewed on Page [3 and the winning Alumni Chapter (Eta Lambda Chapter, Atlanta) is profiled on Page 15.

HI—MEMBERSHIP INTAKE - In Forum, the Chairman of the Fraternity's Committee on Membership, Standards and Extension explores the kev issues surrounding proposed new intake procedures tor Black Creek-letter organizations. \t AhllMIAkhRS - Brother Harold Davis dons a new hat as National Board Chairman for the YMCA. He also serves as Executive Director of the Oakland (California) Housing Authority and National President of the American Baptist Convention.

IN AU'll \ ITHLETES - More and more Alpha Brothers are taking to the slopes and r taking up skiing. l!l—I'Lill'l N 11 ITCH - The University of South Fl<lorida establishes a 5100,000 graduate fellowship in honor of Brother Richard Pride. ;'771'H'IT-IIU HEAT - Col. Paul Patton receives the Rov Wifkrns Award from the NAAC I in recognition ot his support to minority military personnel.

'J— -Mil I N - Brother I larlow Fullwood, Jr. uses his successful fast food franchises as the basc> tor charitable giving in his community.

2 5 — KI.Mj Hill III \\ I |!|!|{| _ Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity is the largest single sponsor ot Martin Luther King Holiday observances in the nation. Thirty-one programs are profiled in this cross-section of Chapter activity. tlllllT rilh COVER: The "Atlanta Attack" captured all four major service awards at the 1989 General Convention in San Antonio. Stories begin on Page 9.

MATURES 3 — T h e General President S p e a k s 5 — F h e Executive Secretary's Desk

COMMENTARY "What Does It Mean To Be G r e e k " Huel Perkins •' Page 31

6 — T h e r e G o e s An Alpha M a n

"The Vital Role of African-American Studies"

3 7 — A l p h a s On The Move 41—Chapter News

James N. Conyers I Page 34

55—Omega Chapter

" I W k (To (The Jfiitnrc: Supreme (Court Politics"

64—Directory of Officers

William

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The Sphinx lUSPS 510-440) The Sphinx is the official magazine ol the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Inc P O Box 53147 rn,n>nr, 11 R/IKSI QQQO D K T . ^ _ , „ .ears Spring. Summer. Fall and Winter Send all edilonal mail and change of a d d r e s s ? S i L ? S i J S Ph Alpha Fraternity. P. O Box 53147 Chicago. IL 60653-9998 Manuscripts or a r l X l H , S ? t both addresses) to Alpha Phi addressed envelopes and return postage9 Editor a s s u m e ! ™ r ^ ' n ' S . W ^ m ^ ^ S " ™ ^ , ^ ^ T O S i S expressed in columns and articles do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of Alpha Ph? Alpha F™emitv ftc and use of am person s name in fiction, semi-fiction, articles or humorous features is to be reoarriert a « t VL n „ j l „ , = ll* „„'.' I n c ,v. a n a u s e °'a"y 0. The Sph,n, „ is never done Knowingly Copyr.gh, ,976 by The !phfnl°A^llT^l F r ^ ^ Reprodu? o'n o r T s e 0 ^ ! o'21 ne written permission, of the editorial or pic ona content in any manner is Drohibiteri The"cm™,VolV.„„„ P , u « u " ' o n 9' use. wnnoui 1914 Organizing Editor Brother Raymond W. Cannon. O r g a n i z i n g G e n e r a ^ . d e n . C h e " ^ M ^ D & ^ S E S e clasl

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Page 1

DRIVE RECOGNIZES NO LIMITS TO LEARNING.

African-American achievers share a common trait: a profound commitment, an inner drive, that lets nothing stand in the way of education. Because they know that education is critical for success.

At RJR Nabisco, we share that drive for educational opportunity. So that every African-American son and daughter can achieve the potential within them.

RJR NABISCO NABISCO BRANDS. INC. PLANTERS LIFESAVERS COMPANY R.J. REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY

Proving Our Commitment...Every Day.

RJR Nabisco: Committed to Education A century of support for minority education-including millions of dollars nationally for scholarships, faculty and facilities-from Richard J. Reynolds' personal gift in 1891 to help establish historically-Black Winston-Salem State University to the company's $4-million grant to WSSU this year A major contributor to the United Negro College Fund since it was created in 1944, and a founding member of its "Million Dollar Roundtable" Dedicated to improving K-12 public education by funding innovative programs through our $30-million Next Century School Fund, which this year awarded many of its first 15 grants to schools with predominately minority student bodies

THE GENERAL PRESIDENT SPEAKS

THE VALUE OF EDUCATION My dear brothers in Alpha, at this point in the year with many brothers completing undergraduate, graduate and professional school, I would like to share with you some of my educational visions for the future. The 1990's will definitely be the decade of great change. The 90's will set the stage for the 21st Century and man's survival in the future. The one area that I feel will be pivotal for change in the 1990's is for the world community to progress in the area of Education. America's progress in the sphere of Education over the last two (2) centuries h a s b e e n p h e n o m e n a l . I have dedicated my professional life to Higher Education. The men of Alpha Phi Alpha owe much to Higher Education.

However, neither you not I should ever allow ourselves to forget that the basis of the Education System is primary education. Those of us with an appreciation of the heritage of the United States cherish public education. We consider it one of our inalienable rights.

Many of the men of Alpha have dedicated their professional lives to public education. I salute you.

General President Ponder As a part of research, which I am conducting and will publish in the near future, I had the opportunity to preview research sponsored by the Chrysler Corporation and its Chairman, Lee Iacocca, for the National Parent Teacher Association. This research emphasized that there must be an agenda for Nationwide Educational Reform. Without good schools, none of our hopes can be fulfilled. The quality of our education will determine the strength of our

democracy, the vitality of our economy and the promise of our ideals. It is through public education that the United States has chosen to pursue enlightended ends for all its people.

My brothers in Alpha, unequal educational provision for our children sends a message of contempt to many poor African American children, one that soon turns to self-despisal. A thousand desperate pathologies â&#x20AC;&#x201D; drugs, violence, early pregnancies and headlong flights into self-ruinous behavior â&#x20AC;&#x201D; are the natural results. We must make a difference. Alpha Phi Alpha can make a difference to guarantee a more productive future for humankind. In this matter as in all matters, my brothers in Alpha, I call upon you to take a leading role and to keep the ideals of Alpha "First Of All".

Fraternally,

Henry Ponder General President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

T H E CONVENTION CALL By virtue of the authority vested in me as General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.; and, in accordance with the mandates of the Constitution & By-Laws of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.; It is my distinct pleasure to issue the Official Call for the assembly of the 84th Anniversarv Convention (76th General Convention) of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. The site of the 84th Anniversary Convention shall be Miami Beach, Florida - with the Fountainbleau Hilton and Towers Hotel serving as the official headquarters hotel for our assembly.

Said 84th Anniversary Convention shall take place during the time period, August 2-8, 1990.

All chapters and members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, I nc. are hereby notified of the time and place of the 1990 General Convention. All chapters are directed to make appropriate plans to ensure that thev are represented in Miami f Beach.

HENRY PONDKK General President The Sphinx/Summer 1990

Page 3

The Mark of a Leader

In the early 1980s GE set out to become the most competitive business enterprise in the world.

It was not just a proclamation, but a commitment to achieve market share leadership in a remarkably diverse portfolio of businesses in the technology, manufacturing and services sectors.

Today, as we begin the 1990s, eleven of GE's thirteen major businesses are either world or national leaders. And though our financial services and communications businesses are too diverse for market

share measurements, they are of scale and potential appropriate to a 54 billion dollar company.

The challenge to maintain world leadership in an enterprise as broad as ours requires competitive excellence in every aspect of every business function.

Most of all, it requires people who thrive on competing with and for the best. People who view todays challenges as tomorrows opportunities.

If you are that kind of person, we'd like to meet you.

GE is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY'S DESK Report New Chapter Officers

Immediately!

The Chapter Officers you elect for the 1990-91 fraternal year can only serve you effectively if they are abreast of current regulations and procedures within the Fraternity. To facilitate that process, file the Director of Chapter Officers form and order your Chapter Guide 1990-91. should receive this packet of materials. The Chapter's copy of the Constitution and By-Laws of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., 1990 Edition, will also be included in the guide packet.

Your Cooperation is Vital Our Constitution mandates that the election of Chapter Officers be held in April for College Chapters and in May for Alumni Chapters.

The names and addresses of these officers are to be reported to the General Office within ten (10) days of the election. The Directory of Chapter Officers form for 1991 is included in this mailing for your use in this matter.

A space is provided on this form to allow College Chapters to designate, if necessary, a "summer address" to be used until a permanent address can be designated during the Fall 1990 school term.

Failure to promptly complete and file this form is the primary cause of a breakdown in communication between the General Office and the various Chapters. The Chapter President should insure that this form is mailed and should feel free to contact the General Office in Chicago to confirm its receipt.

Complete the Chapter Guide Mail Order Form on the reverse of the "Directory of Chapter Officers" form and your Chapter Guide 1990-91 will be mailed to you.

ALPHA ALPHA The Sphinx/Summer 1990

Constitutions Available To All

Brother fames

B. Blanton,

III

The Chapter Guide /1990-91 The Chapter Guide contains all of the administrative forms needed to conduct the affairs of your Chapter during the upcoming fraternal year.

Since these documents are designed for the use of the 1990-91 Chapter Officers, the guides were not distributed at the Regional Conventions as has been the past practice.

You should use the Chapter Guide Mail Order Form (on the reverse side of the "Directory of Chapter Officers" form) to designate which Brother

Any Brother may purchase a copy of the 1990 Edition'of the Constitution and By-Laws by ordering same from the General Office. The books are $1.00 each. Recent initiates may use the form in the Summer 1990 Alpha Spirit to secure their free copies.

The new edition is a comprehensive revised version, replaced the previous edition dated 1984. Included in the new document are amendments adopted in conjunction with the report of the Internal Structure Commission (1987) and all other amendments adopted through the 1989 General Convention in San Antonio, Texas.

Fraternally yours,

James B. Blanton, III Executive Secretary

Boy Scouts Insurance Certificate Mailed Since January 1984, the Boy Scouts of America has provided primary general liability insurance protection for all chartered organizations. (BSA insurance is excess for automobile liability). The policy is renewed annually on March 1. Alpha Phi Alpha should receive a new certificate of insurance each year.

Enclosed with the April 1990 Chapter Bulletin was a copy of the certificate of insurance naming Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. as the holder. At the direction of BSA officials, we mailed a copy of same to each of our local chapters and field staff. Please your copy on file in a secure location.

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Brother E. M. Miller

Brother Miller Honored in Tuskegee Brother E. M. Miller of Alpha Mu Lambda Chapter of Tuskegee, Alabama was honored at the chapter's F o u n d e r s Day P r o g r a m . He was presented a beautiful plaque that cited him for "Distinguished Service" as the secretary of the local chapter for more than 20 years. Having been a member of the chapter for more than 30 years, Brother Miller has taken the lead in reclaiming Alpha Brothers to increase the membership on a yearly basis.

Brother Miller was always present to record the minutes and to assist the president in numerous ways. He always sent out announcements for the monthly meetings. He kept the chapter informed relative to correspondence from the National Office and was very punctual in sending in the annual membership report to the General Secretary at the National Office. Brother Miller is a Life Member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

In addition to keeping accurate records, Brother Miller is very active in community affairs. He is an active member of his church having served on the trustee board for many years.

He is President of the Men's Progressive Club of the Church and has held that office for 27 years.

Brother Frank Motley Brother Miller received his B. S. Degree from Tuskegee University and l a t e r t a u g h t in t h e S c h o o l of Business. He operated a very successful food business for more than 10 years and provided jobs for many Tuskegee students.

He later served as the Personnel Officer for Tuskegee University and was very active in the State a n d National Pesonnel organizations. He served as chairman of the Alabama Chapter of College and University Personnel Association and was also an officer in the national organization.

Although he is retired, Tuskegee University still makes use of his expertise in negotiating labor contracts.

Brother Miller is truly an "Alpha Man on the Go."

Brother Motley Joins Law Services Brother Frank Motley has been appointed Deputy Vice President Council Programs at Law School Admission Services.

Motley, 42, is a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He formerly served as the Assistant Dean and Director of Admissions at Indiana University School of Law in Bloomington, Indiana. He has The Sphinx/Summer 1990

a s s u m e d his n e w d u t i e s at Law School Admission Services February 5, 1990.

Law School Admissions Services, also known as Law Services, operates under the auspices of the Law School Admission Council, an association of 189 law schools in the United States and Canada. Law Services is best known for giving the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) to more than 100,000 prospective law s t u d e n t s each year.

The organization also carries out a number of programs for its governing Council. As Deputy Vice President Council Programs, Brother Motley will oversee several outreach and support programs designed to recruit and retain minorities in law schools.

Brother Motley will be responsible for minority affairs, educational programs and prelaw advising. His work in minority affairs is particularly welcome at a time when the Minority Affairs Committee has a number of projects under way, including a conference for Pre-Law advisors at historically Black colleges.

O t h e r key i n i t i a t i v e s p l a n n e d include a minority outreach program designed to expand the law school applicant pool, a project to produce a m a n u a l for a c a d e m i c s u p p o r t programs, and a project to study minority bar passage rates nationally.

Brother Motley was most recently active with the Nu Nu Lambda Graduate Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc., in Bloomington, Indiana. He became a member of the fraternity in 1967 when he pledged the Eta Chapter at Columbia University in New York.

He is a graduate of Columbia College and the Columbia University School of Law. He was formerly assistant dean at Columbia University and Amherst College in Amherst, Massachusetts.

He also w o r k e d at Western New England College of Law in Springfield, M a s s a c h u s e t t s , w h e r e h e practiced law for several years.

Brother Miller Directs Minority Affairs Mecklenburg County (North Carolina) Manager Gerald G. Fox recently n a m e d Brother A. Leon Miller as Director of the Office of The Sphinx/Summer 1990

Brother A. Leon Miller Minority affairs, effective May 16.

This position will report directly to the County Manager.

Brother Miller has served as Job Training Program Administrator for the Centralina Council of Governments since 1983. He has been instrumental in constructing programs and services for more than 1500 economically d i s a d v a n t a g e d i n d i v i d u a l s a n n u a l l y . He a l s o s u p e r v i s e d employment and training programs for a six-county region including Cabarrus, Iredell, Lincoln, Rowan, Stanly, and Union counties.

As D i r e c t o r of t h e Office of Minority Affairs, Brother Miller will serve as an advocate for the needs of minorities in Mecklenburg County.

He will be responsible for improving access to and availability of necessary services for minority individuals, promoting an understanding of minority needs to the community, and working with the County Manager to investigate reports from minorities pertaining to discrimination grievances.

"I am excited about the challenges inherent to the position," says Miller.

"I hope to open and assist in opening w i n d o w s of o p p o r t u n i t y for t h e County's minority communities â&#x20AC;&#x201D; for all minorities and all of their communities."

Miller holds a Master of Regional Planning degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Fayetteville State University.

He has participated in Focus on Leadership and Leadership Charlotte.

Miller is a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and was named its Man of the Year in 1986.

THERE GOES AN ALPHA MAN There goes a man of high impulse Of princely mien and grace There goes a man of humble

faith A credit to his race There goes a man of conscience vast with will to reach his goal There goes a man of lordly rank Of heroes' stock and soulâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; There goes a man of noble caste Whom hardship cannot break There goes a man in merit clad Whom duty won't forsake There goes a man in cultured verse Who holds a sportsman's creed There goes a man too vigilant To bow to lust or greed There goes a man whose life is spent in service not in scorn There goes a man whose majesty Shines like a May time morn.

There goes a man who is a friend To love and duty truth There goes a man to help

uplift The lives of wholesome youth There goes a man with industry and faith at his command.

There goes the best man in and out For he is an Alpha Man. Page 7

1989-90 Chapter Report of Program Activities Please complete the following questionnaire for the period covering AUGUST 1, 1989 through APRIL 30, 1990 only.

CHAPTER NAME LOCATION

KEY NUMBER

I. PROGRAM ACTIVITIES A. SCHOLARSHIPS (Describe awards, criteria, amounts, etc.)

B. FOUNDERS DAY (Describe events, awards, etc.)

C. OTHERS (Describe fully)

II. CONTRIBUTIONS A. B. C. D.

NAACP National Urban League United Negro College Fund Others:

Amount $ Amount $ Amount $ Amount $ Amount $ Amount $

III. NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS FUND DRIVE

REPORT SUBMITTED BY: IMPORTANT: Return this completed report

IMMEDIATELY

Name

to:

Title

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. P.O. Box 53147 Chicago, IL 60653-9998

Address City, State, Zip Code

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CHOLARSHIR LEADERSHIP & SERVIC' COLLEGE BROTHER OF THE YEAR - 1 9 8 9

Brother Jovier Evans lived up to his promise as a Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholar at Emory University in Atlanta. In recognition to his service to the Emory community, he was named Senior Class Marshall at the prestigious school.

The 1989 College Brother of the Year was honored as a student leader, renowned scholar and a dedicated community service worker. Our honoree is listed in Who's Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities, Outstanding Young Men of America and was recognized by his undergraduate institution for his outstanding leadership and service to the campus and community-atlarge.

We pleased to spotlight the 1989 College Brother of the Year, Brother Jovier D. Evans of Mu Alpha Chapter, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.

A graduate of Cedar Grove High School in E l l e n w o o d , G e o r g i a , Brother Evans is a May 1989 graduate of the prestigious Emory University, receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. While at Emory, he worked tirelessly to improve life for both the campus family and the wider community.

Since his initiation into Alpha Phi Alpha on April 5, 1986, Brother Evans has been a dedicated servant to all fraternity endeavors. He served as President of his Chapter during his junior year, leading the Chapter to the College Chapter of the Year title for the State of Georgia, the Emory All Greek Service Award (chosen from the 14 campus fraternal organizations), and the initiation of eight young men into Alphadom. For the past two years, Brother Evans has served as the Chairman of the Chapter's successful Step for Sickle Cell Anemia Committee - raising more than $2,500 for the Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia. During his senior year, he was the Chaplain of Mu Alpha Chapter - organizing its commemorative activities for the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Holiday.

Brother Evans was also an annual participant in Eta Lambda Chapter's Project Alpha workshops in Atlanta.

He was named the College Brother The Sphinx/Summer 1990

Other campus involvements included being a member of the SGA Budget Committee, the Emory Scholar Advisory Committee, the Emory King Holiday Commission, and the Voices of Inner Strength Gospel Choir.

Brother Evans was also a member of the University Scholar's Selection Committee.

In recognition of his service to the Emory Community, Brother Evans was given the distinction and honor of being the Senior Class Marshall representing the graduating Class of 1989 at commencement exercises.

Brother Evans was a Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholar at Emory and because of his excellent academic career, he was named to several national honor societies, including: Mortar Board; Psi Chi, the national psychology honor society; Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society; and Order of Omega, the national Greek honor society.

Jovier's academic achievements Brother Jovier D. Evans were complemented by his extensive work in the community. He served as an organizer for the King Center's National Student Conference. In addition, he was a volunteer at the Atlanta Community Food Bank and the Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Telethon, to name just a few. Brother Evans also tutored children at the Samuel L. Jones Boys Club and participated in the NAACP membership drive.

Accepted into numerous doctoral programs (including those at Duke University, Northwestern University, of the Year in Georgia and of the University of Texas, and the UniverSouthern Region before being awarded sity of Maryland), Brother Evans is the national title. presently working toward his Ph.D. Brother Evans was the epitome of in Clinical Psychology as a McKnight a campus leader, serving as the Black Doctoral Fellow at the University of Student Alliance's Vice President durMiami. We feel confident that his ing his junior year and becoming its manly deeds, scholarship and love President in his senior year. He also for all mankind shall continue to was a Resident Advisor, a Minority exemplary of the best Alpha Phi Peer Assistant, and a Senior Student Alpha tradition.

Manager of the Emory Student Center.

Brother Evans is now working on his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology as a McKnight Doctoral Fellow at the University of Miami.

Page 9

FORUM M E M B E R S H I P INTAKE:

A Time For Decision

by Brother Napoleon Moses, Chairman, Committee on Membership, Standards & Extension Alpha Phi Alpha, and the fraternity system as a whole, must contend with a skeptical public, a doubting public, a public that tends to question both our motive and our purpose on college and university campuses throughout America.

Alpha must constantly work to combat the "bad apple theory"—the belief that one or two wayward members automatically serve to indict all of us. And one tragedy after another has placed Alpha in the nation's limelight—a position which suggests that not just one apple is bad, but the whole bunch may be rotten to the core.

Whether the suspicion is completely justified is another matter. But one fact is clear: our importance as an effective instrument of education within the university, has indeed, become a matter of considerable debate.

The question Alpha must address is a relatively simple one: What do we intend to do about the question mark which has been attached to our fraternity? What do you—you who have a stake in Alpha Phi Alpha, you who believe strongly in the value of a strong fraternity—intend to do about altering this view?

Each of you can see the crisis—the impending disaster. The time is here that Alpha must prove, conclusively and for all time, that we are of value to higher education, that we can and will continue to make a unique contribution to the modern college and university.

During the 83 years of its existence in America and abroad, Alpha has proved its mettle time and time again.

We fteve demonstrated that we possess a unique, and valuable potential —if that potential | s used wisely.

For many thousands of Alphamen who have preceded us; pur fraternity has been a catalyst of personal development, rich in tradition, purpose, and service. We would lose sight of these traditions at our own peril.

However, the traditions which sustain us are not those destructive ones Page 10

Brother Napoleon Moses found in the rigours and rituals of pledging.

Pledging is like a cancer eating away at the marrow of Alpha. Its tradition is not connected to the idealism and commitment of our founders, but instead, to the tribal mentality of members long ago outlawed by our General Organization. The following example is offered.

Anthropologists and other social scientists continue to chronicle the rituals of the primitive world, particularly inhabitants of South American rain forests and Southern Africa. For example, the African Thonga tribe requires each of its boys to go through an elaborate initiation ceremony before he can be counted as a man. As with most primitive people throughout the world, a Thonga boy endures a great deal to wear the mantle of a man, as does his pledgee counterpart who endures hardships to wear the fraternity colors.

The three month ordeal begins with the adolescent boy being sent to "circumcision school." Here in company with his age-mates he is severely hazed by adult males of the tribe.

The initiation begins when each boy runs the gauntlet between two rows

of men who beat him with belts, clubs, and boards. Later, he is stripped and his hair is cut. Then a man covered in lion manes performs the circumcision while total stillness and silence is demanded of the boy.

During the course of the initiation, the boy undergoes seven major trials: seclusion, beatings, exposure to cold, thirst, eating of unsavory foods, punishment, and the threat of death.

He is beaten for the slightest error.

He sleeps without covering and suffers from illness, isolation, hunger and thirst. He is forbidden to drink a drop of water during the entire period.

Meals are often made nauseating by the half-digested grass from the stomach of an antelope, which is poured over his food. Often, sticks are placed between the boy's fingers while a strong man closes his hand around that of the boy's, practically crushing his fingers. He is told that if he tells anyone about the rituals, he will be hanged and his body burned.

There is more, much more written about tribal initiations for the interested researcher. The point is this: These are bizarre examples of cruelty which have no place in a civilized society or in an organization of educated, civilized men.

Now let me make one thing clear.

I do not, even for a moment, claim kinship to the critics of the tribal society and its right to exist undisturbed.

And as an organization of men predominantly of African descent, Alpha must not divorce itself from its heritage—ever. However, the remarkably similar practices common during collegiate "Hell Week" to those of primitive cultures are serious ones.

During the traditional pledge period on college campuses, pledgees must persevere through a variety of activities designed by older members to test the limits of physical exertion, psychological strain, and social embarrassment. Those who endure are accepted into full membership.

Continued on Page 14 The Sphinx/Summer 1990

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CHOLARSHIP, LEADERSHIP & SERVIC COLLEGE CHAPTER OF THE YEAR - 1 9 8 9

Mu Alpha Chapter received the prestigious Emory Dean's Cup award for 1988-89 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; given to the best all-around fraternity on campus. The same record made them Alpha's finest.

The Brothers of Mu Alpha Chapter would like to extend warm and heartfelt greetings to our Brothers in the land of Alpha. We are proud to say that Mu Alpha has held the shining light of Alpha high throughout our thirteen year existence at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia.

The school year of 1988-89 was filled with many special events that Mu Alpha was proud to be a part of. We are proud to say that we have been active on the national, community, and campus levels. Nationally, we have been involved with Project Alpha: The Black Male and Teenage Pregnancy, one of the many service projects we have jointly participated in with Eta Lambda Chapter. The Chapter has continued in the Alpha Phi Alpha tradition of service by participating in leadership development at Druid Hills High School Genesis Club, Assault on Illiteracy at the Sam Jones Boys Club, the NAACP Membership Drive, Boy Scouts of America, the Inauguration of General President Henry Ponder and National Leadership Forum '89, Alpha National Headquarters Fund Drive, and Risk Management. Mu Alpha was honored to have been the recipient of second place, Atlanta Cluster Competition, 1988 in the Belford V. Lawson Oratorical Contest.

Alpha Phi Alpha has always valued community service, and Mu Alpha has been actively involved in the Atlanta community. Among the activities that this chapter has been involved with onlfie local level are: The Sphinx/Summer 1990

The Mu Alpha Chapter. Emory University. Atlanta, Georgia. the Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Telethon, The Heart Fund, the Christian Children's Fund, tutorial sessions and recreational activities at the Samuel L. Jones Boys Club, Play-day in the Park for Underpriviledged Children and Birthday Magic with Volunteer Emory, American Red Cross Blood Drive, Beautillion '88 whose theme was "Go To High School, Go To College" Martin Luther King, Jr. National Holiday March, Atlanta Community Food Bank, Inc., Jamaican Relief Drive, The Atlanta Hunger Walk, visit to Homeless Shelter, and Bowl for Kids Sake for Big Brothers/ Big Sisters of Atlanta.

Community involvement begins on the college campus and Mu Alpha has actively participated in many campus activities here at Emory University including: the Pre-Professional Lecture Series; the Step-For-Sickle Cell Anemia ($1,600 contribution); Emory King Week '89, which included the Martin Luther King Commemorative Reception and Commemorative Worship Service with Brother Maynard Jackson; Alpha Week, which climaxed with the Miss Black & Gold Pageant; Tony Brown at Emory; and the Emory Inter-Fraternity Council.

During the school year of 1988-89, Mu Alpha is pleased to say that we have guided ten distinguished young men across the burning sands into Alpha land. These men are Reginald Hall, Ronald Smith, and Kevon Lightborne, of the Three Degrees; and Dwayne Jefferson, David Neuwirth, Bryan Woods, Bernard Winfrey, Reed E d m o n d s o n , K e n d a l l Wood, a n d Dennis Hawkins of the Knights of Kwanzaa. These brothers hold positions in various organizations such as the Student Government Association, Emory Scholars Advisory Committee, Freshman Council, the M.O.R.E. Peer Assistant Program, Black Student Alliance, the Glee Club, the Judicial Council, and the Minority Student Programs Advisory Board.

Mu Alpha, in conjunction with the University and the Chapter's newly formed House Corporation, broke ground on April 7, 1989 for its new $250,000 Chapter House on Emory's Fraternity Row. Among those attending the festivities were Past General President Ozell Sutton, then Southern Assistant Vice President Walter Kimbrough, Jr., and Chapter founder a n d m e n t o r B r o t h e r A n d r e w J. Continued on Page 12

Page 11

Continued from Page 11 "Generalissimo" Lewis, II. The house opened in September 1989.

During the past two years Mu Alpha Chapter has been Georgia's Chapter of the Year and we were named the Southern Region's Chapter of the Year in 1989. Notably, we were also the recipients of the prestigious Emory Dean's Cup Award for lust all around fraternity on campus foi the 1988-89 >ihool year. Mu Alpha is also proud to boast that it's Chapter Brother, Jovier Evans, was judged Alpha South' College Brother of the Year.

At the 83rd Anniversary Convention in San Antonio, Texas, Mu Alpha was honored with the distinction of Chapter of the Year for the General Organization. Mu Alpha's Jovier Evans was also honored as Brother of the Year.

The officers who served during the banner 1988-89 year were: President, Mark E. Unthank; Vice President, William Eric Chapman; Treasurer, Khunam S. Hassan; Corresponding Secretary, Mark Fairfax Stevens; Recording Secretary, Vincent Young; Financial Secretary, Jice Stokes; Dean of Pledges, Eugene Williams; Historian/Editor-to-The Sphinx, Richard Brooks; Sergeant-at-Arms, George A. Smith; Chaplain, Jovier Evans; Par-

Mu Alpha was Georgia's College Chapter of the Year for the past two years. During 1989. they captured the award for the Southern Region and the General Organization. liamentarian, Phillip B. Phillips; Director of Educational Activities, Aldous McCrory; and, former Dean of Pledges, William Holly.

In this, our 13th Anniversary year, we pause to reflect on the legacy of Mu Alpha Chapter and our "Tradition of Excellence". Though the battle often

seems lost, the final victory is still ours to embrace; for we are "Men of Distinction," of noble caste whom hardship cannot break. Yes, the struggle continues. But Mu Alpha is proud to know that "we hold ever aloft, noble ideals and aims, carrying out earth and heaven's grand command".

National Headauarters Building Fund Schedule of Incentives Level

Alpha Phi Alpha will soon have a headquarters which reflects its history and o u r pride. Every Alpha Brother Should support this campaign in spirit and in financial assistance. If you haven't given, give! If you've given, give again!

T h a n k you for your support!!

Page 12

Individual Gifts 500

Recognition Certificate Optional Pin Certificate Optional Pin Name Permanently Inscribed Contributors Wall Certificate Optional Pin Name Permanently Inscribed Sponsors Wall Certificate Optional Pin Name and Photograph Permanently Displayed

1

$

300 - $

II

$

5 0 1 - $ 1,500

III

$ 1.501 - $ 2.500

IV

$ 2.501 - $ 5,000

V

$ 5,001-$10,000

Certificate Optional Pin Name and Photograph Permanently Displayed in room with three other Brothers (There are 10 such rooms available.)

VI

$10,001-$20,000

Certificate Optional Pin Single Room - Named in Honour of Donor Name and Photograph Permanently Displayed Therein (There are 6 such rooms available.)

Vll

$25,000 AND UP

Certificate Optional Pin Name and Photograph of Donor Permanently Inscribed in Lobby

Corporate Gifts

Recognition

$ 5,000 AND UP

Names Displayed in Corporate area of House

The Sphinx/Summer 1990

s

E

CHOLARSHIP, LEADERSHIP & SERVIC' ALUMNI BROTHER OF THE YEAR - 1 9 8 9

If he's not reading history or writing about it, Brother Herman "Skip" Mason makes a bit of history of his own.

Initiated into the Fraternity on the 14th Anniversary of the assassination of Brother Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., it appears as if Brother Herman "Skip" Mason, Jr.'s life has been. structured around one historical event after another. If he is not reading history or writing about it, he makes a bit of history on his own.

Such was the case at the 83rd Anniversary Convention in San Antonio, Texas, when he became the youngest Brother, at age 27, to capture the title of Alumni Brother of the Year.

Brother Mason, born on July 14, 1962 (Bastille Day) and delivered by Brother Dr. A. M. Davis, is the son of Herman Mason, Sr. and Delons Mason Hughes. He attended the public schools of Atlanta, Georgia and graduated from D. M. Therrell High School in 1980, where he received the City of Atlanta's highest award for a high school senior, the coveted Atlanta Journal Cup for Best All Around Student in his senior class. His senior homeroom teacher was also an Alpha.

His matriculation at Morris Brown College would marked the second generation of his family to attend this Atlanta institution. A member of the famed Marching Wolverines Band (directed by an Alphaman), it was at this historically Black college that he was initiated into Alpha Phi Alpha via Iota Chapter on April 4, 1982.

Three weeks later, as a neophyte, he became President of the Chapter.

Since that moment, his relationship with Alpha Phi Alpha has been strong.

During his tenure as president, Iota Chapter was named Chapter of the Year for the State of Georgia and he received the Chapter's highest award, Brother of the Year. Currently he is Co-Advisor to Iota Chapter and is researching and writing a publication to mark the Chapter's 50th Anniversary in 1991.

His graduate studies were pursued at Atlanta University, where he received a Master's degree in Library The Sphinx/Summer 1990

brother Herman Mason and Information Science and AfricanAmerican History. He is also a graduate of the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library Archives Institute, where he received training in Archival Management and Administration As Archivist/Historian for the AtlantaFulton Public Library, he directs the African-American Studies Archives and is dailv involved in the preservation of African-American documents, photographs and artifacts.

Brother Mason has worked on several major projects, including Spike Lee's School Daze, the Southern Bell Calendar of Black History and he recently compiled the souvenir journal for the Reunion of Negro League Baseball Players.

Brother Mason joined Eta Lambda three months following graduation from Morris Brown College in 1984 and a year later was elected Historian of Alpha's largest chapter. His first major project was the designing of an exhibit during the 80th Anniversary of the Fraternity. The exhibit "Alpha

in Atlanta" was shown at the Robert W. Woodruff Library in the Atlanta University Center and received accolades. Two years later, in lune of 1988, after a year and a half of researching, interviewing Brothers, and writing, he unveiled in a ceremony the pictoral, written history < â&#x20AC;˘'.

Eta Lambda Chapter titled Alpha In Atlanta: A Legacv Remembered, 19201987. In 1989, he completed an extensive annotated bibliography on the writings of Brother Dr Charles Harris Wesley.

His interest does not lie with just the preservation of the Chapter's history. His other activities in the Chapter include participation on numerous committees, including the Reclamation Committee, Chairman of the Registration and Publicity for Project Alpha, leadership Development and the Rushing Committee. In addition, he has served as a Co-Chairman of the Metro-Atlanta Founders Dav Program. For the past several years, he has coordinated the Chapters participation in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Parade.

During the administration of General President Teamer, Brother Mason served on the National Publications Committee, the Ritual Committee and the Convention Newsletter staff Currently he is a member of the I listorical Commission and is Chairman of the Southern Region's Historical Commission.

Brother Mason's love for AfricanAmerican history surged after the airing of Alex Haley's epic Roots in !c*'7 (Alex's late father and his brothei are Alpha men). Since that time Skip has researched his family's history back to 1790, written a book on and produced a documentary on the family.

He is currently serving his second term as President of the African American Family History Association, Inc. His election as head of this organization was featured in Jet magazine in November 1988. He also Continued on Page 16

Page 13

FORUMr

from Page 10

Similarities between collegiate pledging and tribal initiations are found among most, if not all, social fraternities. A scan of newspaper reports illustrates that the seven major trials to be endured by a Thonga initiate have their place in the hazing rituals of Greek-letter societies: Note: The names are not shown to protect the guilty: • Seclusion: Two east coast pledgees were left tied to a railroad track in the desert overnight. They screamed unrelentingly when they heard the sound of a train in the distance. Their prospective brothers somehow misunderstood who was to release them before the train's arrival. Each boy was crushed to death brutally.

• Beatings: Michael Kalogris spent three weeks in a Long Island hospital recovering from internal injuries suffered during a Hell Night beating. He had been administered the "atomic bomb" by his "Big Brothers," who told him to hold his hands over his head and keep them there while they gathered around to slam fists into his stomach and back simultaneously and repeatedly.

• Exposure to Cold: On a winter night, Frederick Bonner, a California freshman, was taken three thousand feet up and ten miles into the hills of a national forest by his prospective fraternity brothers. Left to find his way home wearing only a thin sweat shirt and slacks, Fat Freddy, as he was called, shivered in a frigid wind until he tumbled down a steep ravine, fracturing bones and hurting his head. Prevented by his injuries from going on, he huddled there against the cold until he died of exposure.

• Thirst: Two freshmen in Ohio found themselves in the "dungeon" of their prospective fraternity house after breaking the rule requiring all pledgees to crawl into the dining area prior to Hell Week meals. Once locked in the house storage closet, they were given only salty foods to eat for nearly two days. Nothing was provided for drinking purposes except a pair of plastic cups in which they were instructed to catch their own urine.

• Eating of Unsavory Foods: Fraternity members of a California university watched the eyes of seven pledgees bulge when they saw the Page 14

sickening task before them—eleven quarter-pound slabs of raw liver on a tray. Cut thick and soaked in oil, each was to be swallowed whole, one to a boy. Gagging and choking repeatedly, young Richard Swanson failed three times to down his piece. Determined to succeed, he finally got the oilsoaked meat into his throat where it lodged and, despite all efforts to remove it, killed him.

• Punishment: In Wisconsin, a pledgee who forgot one section of a ritual incantation to be memorized by all initiates was punished for his error. He was required to keep his feet under the rear legs of a folding chair while the heaviest of his "Big Brothers" sat down and drank a beer.

Although the pledgee did not cry out during the punishment, a bone in each of his feet was broken.

• Threats of Death: A pledgee in New York was taken to a beach area of New Jersey and told to dig his "own grave." Seconds after he complied with the orders to lie in the

goals and interests. This is how Alpha started and it is how we must proceed.

Alpha must—not should—but must —teach its members several important facts of life. Included among them are these: To distinguish between that which is important and that which is trivial; to recognize the difference between mere change and real growth; to discover that there is a difference between simple pleasure and true happiness; to teach the difference between good grades and scholarship, the differences between defeat and compromise and rationalization, and the difference between an engraved sheepskin and a true education. Alpha's new membership intake program will do this, and perhaps more.

There is a point that members of every campus organization need to be reminded of from time to time.

Every campus organization must reflect not only the standards of its membership, but the values and pro-

"We must reclaim our position as a center of intellectual endeavor, one that exudes an atmosphere of creativity for serious, studious, maturing young men who share lofty goals and interests. This is how Alpha started and it is how we must proceed." finished hole, the sides collapsed, suffocating him to death before his prospective fraternity brothers could dig him out.

Alphamen everywhere know only too well all the arguments members use to support all forms of hazing, arguments which can be summarized as follows: (1) maintaining tradition, and (2) ensuring commitment. If either one or both arguments are expoused where membership intake is concerned, Alpha Phi Alpha will soon become a social dinosaur.

If Alpha is to position itself for the 21st Century and beyond, we must first and foremost re-establish ourselves as an agent of intellectual attainment, shedding our image of an organization embracing primitive brutality. To place the necessary emphasis upon intellectual pursuits demands that the social function be subordinate to academic purpose. If Alpha is to maintain its place on campus, then we must reclaim our position as a center of intellectual endeavor, one that exudes an atmosphere of creativity for serious, studious, maturing young men who share lofty

file of the university as well.

This is a serious responsibility because what Alpha chapters do on campus is usually regarded as news.

And if it involves an injury or an infraction of some kind, it is not merely news, it is sensational news.

Whether we like it or not, whether we prefer more equitable treatment for fraternities, is of little consequence. That is the way it is, and that is very likely the way that it will continue to be. Alphamen can respond by reflecting above-average effort and achievement on the part of each of its members.

In the final analysis, the gauntlet has been dropped at the feet of Alpha. If we expect a place on today's campus, we must earn anew our place in the academic community. We must prove, beyond doubt, our right to exist.

The question is whether Alpha will accept this challenge to disprove the indictment made upon our fraternity and other similar organizations. As a trail-blazing leadership organization, I am confident that we can and that we will.

The Sphinx/Summer 1990

s

CHOLARSHIP, LEADERSHIP & SERVIC'

5

ALUMNI CHAPTER OF THE YEAR - 1 9 8 9

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r •> n

Eta Lambda Chapter is not only one of the oldest in Alpha Phi Alpha — but it is the largest in the Fraternity, with 285 financial Brothers. The Chapter provides leadership in all facets of local, state and national community life.

Eta Lambda Chapter was chartered in May, 1920, in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Chapter is not only one of the oldest in Alpha Phi Alpha, but it is the largest in the Fraternity with two hundred and eighty-five (285) financial Brothers. Members live throughout the metropolitan Atlanta area.

The Chapter has, over the last twelve vears, spawned four other alumni chapters in metropolitan Atlanta.

Eta Lambda Chapter is involved in many facets of local, state and national community life. The Chapter has been the home to three General Presidents, the most recent being 26th General President Ozell Sutton. The C h a p t e r participates in all state, regional and national programs and activities of the Fraternity.

Many Brothers are active in various aspects of local community and political life. These include: Brother Michael Hightower and Brother Gordon Joynerl, members of the Fulton County Commission; Brother Maynard Jackson, Mayor of the City of Atlanta; Brother Andrew Young, immediate past Mayor of Atlanta; Brother Curtis Atkinson, Deputy Secretary for the State of Georgia; Brother Otis Smith, President of the Atlanta Chapter of the NAACP; Brothers Maurice Jenkins, Larry Epps and Ozell Sutton, all members of the Executive Board of the Atlanta NAACP; Brother Ira Jackson, member of the Atlanta City Council; Brother Horace Ward, who serves as Judge, U. S. District Court, Northern District of Georgia; and, Brother William Alexander, Judge of the Fulton County Superior Court.

The Sphinx/Summer 1990

Brother Louis W. Sullivan serves as the Secretary for the Department of Health and Human Services, and Brother Hamilton Holmes is the Medical Director for Grady Memorial Hospital.

Within the Atlanta University Center, several Brothers serve as Presidents of educational institutions: These include: Brother James Costen, President of the Interdenominational Theological Center; Brother Thomas Cole, President of Clark-Atlanta University; and Brother James Goodman, President of Morehouse School of Medicine.

Several Brothers serve Alpha Phi Alpha at different levels of the Fraternity. Brother Larry Epps is the General Convention Secretary; Brother Robert Willis serves as District Director for Georgia and as national Chairman of the Life Membership Committee; and, Brother Joseph Patterson serves as Treasurer for the Georgia District.

The Chapter has been the proud sponsor of Project Alpha for over six years. This project annually involves 500-600 young Black males. Funding has been provided over the years from the Chapter's Education Foundation, the March of Dimes and the Metropolitan Atlanta C o m m u n i t y F o u n d a t i o n . This f u n d i n g h a s amounted to $42,000.00 over the years. The Chapter has also initiated a conference on Male Involvement in Responsible Decision Making. The initial conference attracted over 500 persons from across the nation—with outstanding speakers and experts on the subjects from Chicago, San Fran-

cisco, New Orleans, Washington, DC, and Atlanta. Funds for the program were realized from several local foundations, corporations and federal agencies.

Eta Lambda annually awards scholarships to three (3) high school students and two (2) College Brothers.

During the last five years these funds totalled over $25,000.00.

The Education Committee of the Chapter conducts a program entitled "A-Phi-Aid." The program consists of counseling college students and others concerning financial aid and scholarship availability.

Eta Lambda is very active with the production of events during Black History Month. Sessions are held each Saturday of February in a shopping mall for two to three hours.

These sessions include Black history quizzes, plays, musical activities, poetry, art displays and general information about Black history. It is contemplated that this program will be expanded to cover additional months.

The Chapter is very active in conducting a Leadership Development/ Citizenship Education Institute.

Some 150 to 200 students have participated in the program each year for the past ten years. The curriculum has four components: Parliamentary Procedures; Public Speaking; Leadership Techinques; and, Group Dynamics. Each year the Chapter also sends several student representatives to the Southern Regional LD/CE Institute at Fisk University.

The Bov Scouts Alliance is an inte-

continued on Page 16 Page 15

E T A L A M B D A , from Page 15 gral part of Eta Lambda's program.

The Chapter supports a Boy Scout Troop at Antioch North Baptist Church. Twenty young men are involved in scouting activities. The Chapter provides human and fiscal resources for the conduct of Boy Scout activities. In addition to the sponsorship of the troop, 15 additional Chapter members are involved in various district and administrative posts of the Boy Scouts, including the Atlanta Area Council Board.

The Chapter is very supportive of the National Headquarters Fund Drive. More than 200 Brothers have pledged and paid over $24,000.00 to this cause.

Eta Lambda Chapter conducts a Pledge Program each year. Aspirants for membership are involved, during the program, with various community service projects. These include "Feeding the Hungry" and "Foster Care for Youth." This program consists of a pledgee being assigned to two or three young people for interactions on various topics concerned with selfesteem, responsibility, milestones to maturity, male-female anatomy, etc.

Pledge groups are also involved with donations of books to libraries at various high schools.

Each year Eta Lambda Chapter conducts a Founders Day program which utilizes a nationally acclaimed Brother as the speaker. The Chapter also worships collectively at a local church on the Sunday preceding Founder's Day. Eta Lambda has established an Education Foundation. The purpose of the Foundation is to receive gifts for the support of programs classified as charitable and/or community service. As a part of the Foundation's activities, the Chapter has agreed to create a corpus of $50,000.00 for scholarship purposes. Thus far, $43,000.00 has been amassed.

The history of Eta Lambda Chapter was recently written by the Chapter Historian, Brother Herman Mason.

The publication of the history was met with considerable success and positive publicity during the past year. Brother Mason was honored as Alumni Brother of the Year for 1989.

The presentation of the Hungry Club Forum is an annual feature of the Chapter. This program, which is organized by the Butler Street YMCA, provides the Chapter with a forum whereby outstanding speakers Page 16

The Eta Lambda delegation, the largest in San Antonio, savors its prize. participates in the observance of King are used each year to discuss various Week by marching in the parade. activities which impact the local comMany Brothers serve on various King munity or the nation. The last speaker Week committees. for the event was Brother Cornelius In addition to the National HeadHenderson, District Superintendent, quarters Fund Drive, Eta Lambda has United Methodist Church. Each year authorized and initiated a Capital the Chapter invites and sponsors the Fund Drive to procure funds to conattendance of 70-100 high school stustruct or purchase a fraternity house. dents for the Forum's luncheon. DurOnce the facility is obtained, it will ing the Forum, scholarship awards find utility for the execution of Chapare presented. ter programs, meetings, family The Father/Son Breakfast is a progatherings, etc. gram of the Chapter whereby Brothers The personal progress and developand their sons or other young male ment of the members of Eta Lambda relatives gather for breakfast the is a priority of the Chapter. We are Saturday prior to Father's Day. This pleased that we not only have, among event is intended to promote a closer our members, Alumni Brother of the union between members ot the ChapYear "Skip" Mason, but we also have ters sons or other male relatives who Brother Maurice Jenkins, the current are pre-teens or teenagers.

Charles Greene Award winner for The Martin Luther King, Jr. celebrathe Southern Region and District of tion is an annual "must" activity for Georgia. the Chapter. Each year the Chapter

MASON, from Page 13 edits the association newsletters and conducts geneaology workshops at churches and schools throughout Georgia.

In 1989, the Georgia Association of Museums and Galleries elected him its first African-American board member. Other volunteer efforts which consume Brother Mason's time include: the United Negro College Fund; the National Council of Negro Women, where he coordinated the Roots/Diaspora Pavillion; the Jomandi Theater Fund Raising Committee; and Xmas in July, a project in which orphan kids are provided with goods and services throughout the year. He is a member of the Westside Community CME Church, where he serves as President of the Usher Board, Coordinator for Black History Activities and Church Announcer.

Recently Brother Mason was selected one of ten Outstanding Atlantan for 1989 and the Fulton County Commission proclaimed September 20, 1989 to be "Herman Mason, Jr. Day" in the county. He has been cited in Outstanding Young Men of Ameri-

can and received the 1989 Distinguished Alumni Citation from the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Education (NAFEO).

Other awards have come from the Lou Rawls Parade of Stars, the NAACP, the Atlanta Employers Volunteer Merit Employment Task Force and the National Council of Negro Women.

Brother Mason has served as a del egate to more than 20 conventions on the state, regional and national level during his eight years in the Frater nity. He can be seen at the General Conventions being photographed with some of the remaining heroes of Alpha, extracting from them more precious Alpha history. However, the experience which changed his Alpha life was meeting the late Historian and Past General President Charles H. Wesley in New Orleans at the 1983 General Convention in New Orleans.

From that moment, it was clear that his love for Alpha Phi Alpha was based on a simple philosophy - "Inspired By Alpha's Past, Committed to Alpha's Present and Prepared for Alpha's Future."

The Sphinx/Summer 1990

:

NEWSMAKERS SERVICE PLUS

_

Brother Harold Davis adds the national chairmanship of the YMCA to duties as President of the American Baptist Church a n d Executive Director of the Oakland Housing Authority.

T h e 25th Chairman of the National Board of the Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) is Harold Davis of Oakland, California. T h e position is that of the chief volunteer officer of the system of 960 YMCAs that operate 2,045 units in 50 states and serve 14 million Americans yearly. T h e Y is one of the largest voluntary organizations in the U.S. Davis, also president of the 1.6 million member American Baptist Churches, is executive director of the Housing Authority of the City of Oakland and a labor arbitrator.

He said of his newest YMCA responsibilities, "I am thankful that this outstanding movement has permitted me to become its national chairman, thereby providing another arena within which I can serve humankind."

Much sought after as a public speaker, Brother Davis is a life member of the NAACP, vice chairman of Children's Hospital Medical Center of Northern California, and a board member of the Y in Berkeley, Calif. H e is active in many other community, professional, and religious organizations, and has received many honors including being named an Outstanding Young Man of America by the J u n i o r Chamber of Commerce.

He holds an M.A. in Public Administration from the University of California, Berkeley and a B.A. in Political Science and Labor Relations from Southern University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He also holds a Doctor of Laws degree from the American Baptist Seminary of the West, in Berkeley. H e is married to Barbara Davis, a s e c o n d a r y school a d m i n i s t r a t o r . T h e y have two children.

The National Board, meeting last summer in Chicago, chose Davis its chairman. He succeeded Sam Evans, a partner of Evans Grain Company in Salina, Kansas. The term of office is two years. Brother Davis had been vice chairman and a member of the executive committee. In 1983-84 he served as President of the National Council of YMCAs. In his statement he emphasized the human service aspect of the YMCA. "Over a period of a century and a half, in many varying circumstances, the Y has demonstrated its unique ability to respond to human service challenges that have been The Sphinx/Summer 1990

YMCA National Board Chairman Harold Dai

marked by diversity as to type, time, and content," he said. "It has been in the vanguard of agencies developing and applying solutions to problems affecting our local, national, and international communities.

"During my association with the YMCA, beginning as a youngster in the Dryades Street YMCA of New Orleans and continuing through a myriad of Y-related experiences, I recall with immense pride the work that YMCAs have done and continue to do to assist persons in becoming well-rounded individuals and group members."

The Y movement, open to all, still includes a handful of YMCAs that began as a separate black Y system.

Dryades is one of those Ys that has maintained its black identity. It has been an influence in the lives of a number of American leaders, including Davis and Atlanta Mayor Andrew Young. T h e first YMCA in the United States opened in 1851, the first black Y in 1853.

A 50-member body, T h e National Board is with the majority of its members YMCA volunteers, generally serving and advising YMCAs and handling joint activities that are beyond the scope of member Ys. Its functions are carried out by a staff of 200 under the direction of National Executive Director Solon B. Cousins. continued on Page 22

Page 17

ALPHA ATHLETES • • • • • • ; :

Alpha men are known for their accomplishments in the academic, political and business world. They are studious, serious, dedicated and hard working. Yes, they also seek and do have fun. One of the pursuits that some of the Alpha brothers are enjoying is skiing, both alpine (downhill) and cross-country. Alpha men ?? Why of

attendants. The actual number ot black skiers there doubled the population of the 5000 who live in Steamboat Springs. The 1990 Annual Meeting/Challenge Cup will be held at Heavenlv Valley, California from March 24 through 31. In 1991 the Summit will return to Park City, Utah where the NBS held the 1985 event.

Alpha i Skiers Sliown in thi* picture, from left to right, are Aljilui Brothers fesse House, (anws Robinson, U/nwood Randolph and Gus Morrison, all members of Black Ski Inc. of Washington, D.C. fesse, U/nwood and Gus are members of Iota Upsilon Lambda Chapter of Silver Springs, Man/land and James is a member of Mu Lambda Chapter of Washington, D.C. These brothers were photographed at the 1989 Summit in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

course. If you had not noticed, the sport of skiing is really gaining popularity among the black population and the Alpha brothers are among those enjoying this outdoor activity.

In the Washington, D.C. area, Alpha men are active participants in an organization known as Black Ski, Inc. Black Ski was founded in 1972 for the purpose of initiating, encouraging and promoting skiing among youth and adults within the minority community. It is one of approximately 50 predominately black ski clubs in the United States that are members of the National Brotherhood of Skiers (NBS).

The NBS clubs are located in 19 states and the District of Columbia and are assigned to one of four regions. One of the primary purposes of the NBS is to coordinate a Youth Development Program and solicit contributions for its Olympic Scholarship Program to develop black Olympic skiers. The NBS holds biennial ski conventions, the "Muck Summits", of its members at major ski resorts in the USA. During the Summits members participate in recreational skiing, races, seminars, happy hours and nightly affairs.

In 1989 Steamboat Springs, Colorado was the site of the largest Summit in which there were 3300 registered Page 18

James and Lynwood traveled in February to Courchevel in Savoie, France as a part of the Black Ski 1990 European trip. During the 11 day trip these brothers skied the crest of the French Alps and "Les Trois Vail ees", the three valleys of Mottaret-Meribel, Les Menuires and Val Thorens.

This was the 8th trip taken by Black Ski to Europe; however this endeavor was by far the clubs largest. I believe that this gathering was probably the largest group of black skiers ever to leave the USA and be seen together in a European ski resort. Sixty three persons went on this trip. Incidently, Courchevel is located in the southeastern portion of France near the Italian border. The headquarters for the 1992 Winter Olympics will be at Albertville, a city nearby.

Meanwhile Jesse House, who currently resides in Marietta, GA spent a part of February with the Southern Snow Seekers of Atlanta skiing the trails in Innsbruck, Austria. Gus Morrison has already skied this season a week each in Vail, Colorado and Killington, Vermont.

So how about it brothers, come join the Alpha Skiers on the slopes.

Lynwood Randolph The Sphinx/Summer 1990

Campua Matcf)

USF Establishes Richard Pride Fellowship Brother Richard F. Pride, Sr., Director of Project Upward Bound and Associate Professor in the College ot Education at the University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida was honored by the university with the establishment o\ a $100,000 Fellowship in his name tor minority students seeking doctoral degrees in Liberal Arts.

"The Richard F. Pride Fellowship" was presented by Dr. Francis Borkowski, President of the university, in recognition of Brother Pride's leadership in the promotion and improvement of the condition of all minorities by cultivating and managing programs to help high school students from lowincome families develop goals and improve academic skills necessary tor college admission.

The fellowship is for tour years, funding one fellow at $15,000 per year, with $10,000 annually for the Institute on Black Life to administer the fund.

Brother Pride has the longest tenure (20 years) among Black American professors on the university campus.

He has assisted more than 2000 students to seek a college education.

Through his efforts he has brought to the university more than $6.2 million

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in federal and private funds to support the Upward Bound program.

Brother Richard F. Pride, Sr.

The four-year Richard F. Pride Fellowship provides $15,000 per annum for minority graduate students seeking doctoral degrees in the liberal arts.

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Brother Pride further exhibited his leadership by establishing the first Black fraternity on the University of South Florida campus, Theta Gamma Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha in 1971.

Brother Pride was initiated into Beta Delta Chapter at South Carolina State College, Orangeburg, SC in 1939 and graduated in 1941. He served in the U.S. Air Force during World War II. He has been a school principal on the elementary, junior and senior high school levels, and county-wide Supervisor ot Schools — all in Tampa, Florida.

Brother Pride was married to the late Eva Laney of Lancaster, South Carolina. They have three children.

His son Richard Jr. (a graduate of Bethune-Cookman College, Daytona Beach, Florida) is an Alpha and was President of the chapter at BCC. His three brothers, Dr. Theodore A Pride, and the late (1974) Fred J. Pride, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Ronald H. Pride, Hampton, Virginia are Alphas who were initiated in Beta Delta Chapter at South Carolina State College, Orangeburg, South Carolina.

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA EDUCATION FOUNDATION. INCORPORATED Announces A new program to encourage academic achievement among college brothers.

Any college brother invited to membership in the honorary societies listed below may request the Foundation to underwrite the fee for induction.

ALPHA CHI • • •

PHI BETA KAPPA ALPHA KAPPA MU PHI KAPPA PHI BETA KAPPA CHI TAU BETA PI MORTAR BOARD

Brother must be jn good standing with his college chapter.

Brother must be financial with the General Organization.

Letter of invitation must accompany request for funds.

Address all inquiries to: Brother Huel D. Perkins, Chairman, Alpha Phi Alpha Education Foundation, Inc. 1923 79th Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA 70807 The Sphinx/Summer 1990

P^ge 19

You will face unique challenges as an FBI Agent Significant work breeds special satisfaction

It could be hours monitoring a court-authorized wiretap in a drug case.

It could be weeks examining business records to investigate white-collar crime. Or it could mean writing a computer program to track organizedcrime suspects. Whatever you do as a Special Agent of the FBI, you will take satisfaction in knowing your work has real meaning.

The mission of the FBI requires a variety of skills. There are Special Agent appointments available for men and

women who have a degree in Engineering, Law, Accounting, Computer Science, or a degree with fluency in a variety of languages, particularly Spanish. The hours can be long. The work can be very demanding. But, you can find more challenge in a day than most peoplef ind in an entire career.

If you are interested in being part of theclose-knitgroupthat sets the world standard for innovation in law enforcement, contactthe Applicant Coordinator at the nearest FBI office.

FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION The FBI is an equal opportunity employer U.S. citizenship required

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THE MILITARY BEAT

Brother Patton Receives NAACP Roy Wilkins Award

The Air Force Colonel is cited for Promoting Equal Rights and Race Relations in Military/Civilian Communities Colonel Paul G. Patton, Commander, Headquarters Research and Acquisition Communications Division, Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland, received the prestigious Roy Wilkins Meritorious Service Award during the 1989 Armed Services and Veterans Affairs Banquet, Detroit, Michigan.

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) presents this annual award to those individuals who, during the preceding year or years, have made the most outstanding contributions to the military and civilian communities through their efforts in the area of equal rights, equal opportunity, race relations and public service.

Colonel Patton has led a life in pursuit of excellence that has make him a positive role model for Black youth and exemplifies the true spirit for which the Roy Wilkins Award was established. He is a highly decorated Vietnam Veteran who has served throughout the United States and overseas. During his combat tour of Vietnam, he served as a Radar Maintenance Officer at Pleiku Air Base, and earned the Bronze Star Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with four stars, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm and the Republic of Vietnam Honor Medal, First Class.

While stationed in Little Rock, Arkansas (1973-1975), Colonel Patton displayed such superb leadership qualities, he was selected by the National Jaycees as an "Outstanding Young Man of America" and was appointed and commissioned an "Arkansas Traveler" by Governor David Pryor.

In a subsequent tour of duty at Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts, he contributed significantly to the base and the local community by co-founding a Masonic Lodge. The Lodge provided a positive environment for the young Black Officers and Airmen at Hanscom AFB as well as some of the local townspeople who chose to affiliate with them. (As A Prince Hall Affiliated Lodge, memThe Sphinx/Summer 1990

Air Force Colonel Paul G. Patton

bership was open to all men of good character, regardless of race and indeed one White Airman joined the Lodge). To this day, the Lodge is still contributing to the base and the local community. Colonel Patton also initiated a Lieutenants Luncheon Service whereby each week he would take two or three Black Lieutenants to lunch and talk to them about what it takes to be successful in the Air

Force. As word of these luncheons spread throughout the base, White Officers as well as Black Officers began to seek Colonel Patton's advice which he always gave cheerfully- He documented these conversations in a pamphlet entitled, "Letters to a Nero Lieutenant" which has been published in more than one thousand copies and distributed to Air Force Continued on Page 22

Page 21

D

MILITARY BEAT D Colonel Patton

Continued From Page 21 and Army Officers around the world.

During his assignment at the Pentagon, Colonel Patton was called upon to give a speech to an American Legion Regional Convention in Odessa, Texas. The speech was delivered with such force and veracity, that Governor Mark White commissioned him an "Honorary Texas Citizen." It was also during this assignment that Colonel Patton helped initiate a program whereby Black Officers visited historically Black colleges and universities to help ROTC Cadets make the transition from campus to the military.

During his assignment as Commander of the Communications Group at McClellan AFB, California (19851987), he led his unit to unparalleled levels of achievement. During the disastrous Mexico City earthquake, his unit was the first organization in the Northern California area to establish two-way radio/teletype communications with Mexico City. Using an ingenious combination of personal computers and high frequency radios, his people passed more than three thousand status messages to the large Hispanic Community in Sacramento. Colonel Patton's personal contributions to the Sacramento Community resulted in his induction into the Golden Key National Honor Society as an Honorary member of the California State University Chapter. He was also the first military person to receive a "Certificate of Recognition and Appreciation" from California State Attorney General John K. Van de Kamp for his "Significant Contribution to a Continuation of a Black Legacy with the Sacramento Community."

from the dawn of history to contemporary Black heroes of today. Each year during Black History Month, he is in constant demand as a speaker.

For the last seven years he has crisscrossed the nation responding to invitations to speak. Based on an article he wrote during 1988, a local playwright requested his permission to use material from the article in a play he was preparing.

During 1989, Colonel Patton was the advisor to the Andrews AFB Black History Month Program Committee. His efforts were hailed by the Base Commander as a result of the

the community that nurtured it, more than $100,000.00 in the form of grants and loans. Poise Foundation is the continuation of a dream that Colonel Patton and a group of his childhood friends started in 1968, as an investment club called the Misters.

The Misters grew and spun off in several positive directions. They initiated a youth organization called Urban Youth Action that provides work experience and job skills for teenagers in Pittsburgh. Urban Youth Action was such a successful program, it qualified for support under the United Way Charities Drive and

Brother Patton works hard to make the military environment a non-hostile arena for minority personnel* Jobs Fair, essay contest, luncheon, and dinner dance. The Base Commander termed this year's event "The best he had ever attended." Colonel Patton was also the 1989 Black History Month Luncheon guest speaker for the Mississippi Air National Guard and the Air Training Command Technical Training Center at Keesler Air Force Base.

In parallel with his military career, Colonel Patton has "Kept the Faith" with the members in the civilian community of Pittsburgh, PA where h e was raised and educated. He is an incorporator a n d trustee of Poise Foundation of Pittsburgh. Over the last eight years, this Black owned and operated foundation has returned to

continues to enjoy that status today.

Throughout the years, Colonel Patton has contributed money and time to make the Misters and all their enterprises successful. His other civilian affiliations include: membership in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Sustaining Life Membership in the NAACP along with his wife, the Prince Hall Masonic family, and numerous other business and professional organizations. Colonel Patton is also a member of the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association. In addition, Colonel Patton is a member of the Air Force Association, and the Air Force Cadet/ Officer Mentor Action Program (AFCOMAP).

SERVICE PLUS Continued from Page 17

"As chief of the Oakland Housing Authority, Davis is known as an innovative administrator who inspires clients and staff to strive for self-improvement," said Cousins. "The Y movement looks forward to his dynamic approach."

Colonel Patton returned to the Brother Davis has led the Housing Authority, which is comprised of more Washington, DC area in July 1987 than 10,000 housing units, to offer many non-traditional services. These where he has worked for the last year include loaning executives and offering other services to voluntary agencies and a half as Senior Communications such as the Boy Scouts, the Girl Scouts, the United Way and churches; a special and Computer Systems Officer for projects department, a community service department, an employee assistance General Bernard P. Randolph, Comdepartment and a security and reply department. mander of Air Force Systems ComT h e YMCA is a charitable association dedicated to building healthy body, mand. mind, and spirit. Part of a worldwide movement, it puts Christian principles In addition to these specific into practice through programs that promote good health, strong families, actions, Colonel Patton has been youth leadership, community development, and international understanding. instrumental in illuminating the outYMCAs are open to men, women, and children of all ages, incomes, abilities, standing achievements and signifiraces, and religions at over 2,000 locations in 50 states. Many Alpha Brothers cant contributions of Black people have been nourished by the Y movement.

Page 22

The Sphinx/Summer 1990

F

OCVS A SUCCESS IN SEVERAL CAREERS < '.lino-iiia a c a r e e r in law enforcement, this* collegiate g r i d i r o n star has built a successful business anil now turns bis attention to philanthrophy.

Ilrotlwr

Harlow

Fulhtonil.

Jr.

During his stellar career, Brother Harlow Fullwood, Jr. has continuously demonstrated devoted and singleminded determination to help people while leading his teammates across the goal line -strong leadership traits that have led to his being drafted by both the Baltimore Colts and the Buffalo Bills in the same year, becoming the owner of a three record-breaking Kentucky Fried Chicken franchises, and being a philanthropist who has raised hundreds of thousands for his alma mater (Virginia Union University).

Since starting his business in 1984, Brother Fullwood's p h e n o m e n a l achievements have been highly recognized by Kentucky Fried Chicken.

In "his first year of operation, he was awarded the company's prestigious Five-Star Award - the highest citation given to franchises. He also received The Sphinx/Summer 1990

the State Sales Award, presented to the franchisee who has the highest dollar volume restaurant in each state.

As the 1987 winner in Maryland, he was the first Black in the history of the Kentucky Fried Chicken Corporation to lead an entire state in gross sales.

During 1987 and 1988, he was also the recipient of the Million Dollar Award, presented to the restaurant with gross sales of over $1 million.

There are only 60 KFC franchise operations in the nation who meet this threshold. Fullwood's restaurants have also received the QSC Excellence Award and KFC's Triple Crown Award in recognition of excellence products, fast and friendly service, and cleanliness.

Brother Fullwood strongly believes that he has a responsibility to those who have made his KFC franchises

successful and established the Annual Fullwood Charity Breakfast in March, 1989, to bring together the recipients of his contributions. The annual affair distributes thousands of dollars in cash grants to local non-profit organizations that service the community.

Brother Fullwood says "My wife and I are overjoyed that our financial success as entrepreneurs has given us this blessed opportunity to share God given wealth with friends and supporters."

A native of Asheville, North Carolina, Brother Fullwood earned the B. A. degree in Urban Sociology from Virginia Union University.

There he was an All-American tackle and captain of the VUU Panthers.

Choosing a career in law enforcement, Fullwood joined the Baltimore Police Department. When he resigned to join the private sector, the department presented him with the coveted Distinguished Service Awardâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the highest honor given for service in the department.

As President of the Baltimore area VUU Alumni Association, he helped raised more than $300,000 to provide scholarships for area students bound for Virginia Union. He was later selected to chair the National Alumni Leadership Committee that is assisting in raising $25 million for the "New Beginnings Campaign" for the university.

In 1988, the Rotary Foundationg of Rotary International named Brother Fullwood a Paul Harris Fellow in appreciation of tangible and significant assistance given for the furtherance of better understanding and friendly relations between persons of all races, creeds and colors.

Brother Fullwood is married to the former Elnora Bassett and they are the proud parents of two children: Parquita Fullwood-Stokes and Harlow, III. Brother Fullwood states that his personal philosophy is best described in the words of George Washington Carver w h o said "how far you go in life depends upon your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving, and tolerant of both the weak and the strong, because someday in life you will have been one or all of these."

Page 23

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o you always thought IBMers were a bunch of blue striped suits with buttoned down minds.

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Right from the start you'll get all the responsibility you can handle. Work in small project teams with the newest computer-aided equipment.

Involved in technologies that range from image processing to laser-fiber optics... from robotics and computer controlled instrumentation to electron-beam technology and satellite transmission . Applying the latest technologies... | J and working with some of the industry's ^n brightest people in all fields. & b r You'll earn early recognition and have the, opportunity for

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V

"The thing that gets me going the most is the possibilities, the endless possibilities. This is a company where I can, within reason, call my own shots about my future. Career development at IBM is primarily the responsibility of the individual; the manager is there to facilitate and counsel. Having that degree of control over my own future career is terribly exciting."

John W.Webster Communications & Systems Management Designer Research Triangle Park.NC

to multiple projects. IBMers have the option to move from one area to another.. .to relocate to a variety of sites... and to follow a career track along purely technical lines or into management.

All the while moving up just as fast and as far as your talent will take you because we're a company that promotes from within.

Your education doesn't endi when you get a job at IBM. It just begins. You can take advan-\ tage of both general and job-specific training, ranging from Graduate Work-Study, Resident Study and Special Studies Programs to Technical Sabbaticals.

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And there's more. IBM encourages its family of professionals to exceed their own expectations.

At all levels, IBMers may receive recognition andfinancialawards for outstanding contributions, innovation and technical achievement.

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An Equal Opportunity Employer

Alphas Celebrate The Dream At Sunday service, January 14th, Mrs. Coretta Scott King delivered die "State of the Dream"

address, calling o n King's supporters to carry o n h e r

husband's dream. "Let's be clear that die future d e p e n d s o n us a n d o u r determination to do God's will" she said. "If you take n o t h i n g else away from h e r e today, let it be a conviction uiat you can m a k e a difference." As you can see from this brief overview of Alpha-affiliated observances, die Brodierhood takes diis charge seriously.

ATLANTA, GA - The Martin Luther King Day Memorial Parade drew marchers and onlookers from across the country. Prominent among them were Brother Maynard Jackson, Mayor of the City of Atlanta; Mrs. Coretta Scott King; and, the 1990 Miss America Debbye Turner. Eta Lambda Chapter sponsored a float in the parade, which was followed by a contingent of Brothers from the Atlanta area and beyond.

PURDUE UNIVERSITY - Members of Gamma Rho Chapter at Purdue University and the Acacia Fraternity at Purdue joined together for a special ceremony prior to the all-university candlelight vigil honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. "We are honoring King the man, his works, but most important his dream, so it may live on and become a reality," said Brother Kevin Grimes, President of Gamma Rho and a senior in the School of Management. He added, "Even though we are doing all of this, words cannot express all he has done."

Kent Biery, President of Acacia and a junior in the Schools of Engineering, said the joint ceremony was the first step in remembering King. "There are still racial problems on a college level we need to overcome." Following the Alpha-Acacia ceremony, both joined the candlelight vigil and march sponsored by the Association of Black Students, followed by the annual People's Day program.

NORTHWESTERN

UNIVERSITY

-

The 11th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Forum, one of the most venerable celebrations of its kind, was held on Sunday, January 14, 1990 at the Norris University Center at Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois. Brother Darnell Moore spearheaded Alpha Mit Chapter's sponsorship of the forum, which featured noted scholar Dr. Vincent Harding.

Harding urged the students and others present to use education as a tool for dismantling inequity, not for advancing

the gulf between haves and have-nots.

On the previous evening, the Chapter sponsored a candlelight ceremony in Alice Millar Chapel which featured speakers and choirs from local churches.

OHIO

STATE

UNIVERSITY

-

Thousands gathered at the Veteran's Memorial in Columbus, Ohio on Monday, January 15, 1990. The celebration began with a march from City Hall to the memorial, which featured harmonic voices singing "We Shall Overcome." Members of Kappa Chapter at Ohio State University served as volunteer marshalls for the event. Brother Mark Young was quoted in a front-page article in the OSU Lantern, "Martin Luther King was in our fraternity and we support his dream."

UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA -Zeta Zeta Chapter, University of Oklahoma, held two marches in honor of Dr. King on January 15th. The first march was at 12:30 PM and the second commenced at 5:30 PM, ending with a candlelight vigil. Brother Ravel Richardson is President of Zeta Zeta.

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS â&#x20AC;&#x201D; According to Brother David Jones, President of Theta Eta Chapter at the University of California-Davis, the very first MLK program at the school took place in a tiny room in the Memorial Union. "About 30 people showed up and the people who came were all friends that we'd asked to come and who were doing us a favor by being there," he said. The 1990 program drew the sponsorship of a halfdozen organizations, participants from across the campus community and the attendance of several hundred persons.

The keynote speaker was Mr. Charles Fulwood, former director of communications for Amnesty International. Fulwood opened by noting that it was gratifying to see young African AmeriContinued on Page 26 Page 25

Continued from Pxge 25 cans put on a production such as the King memorial program when the media seems obsessed with portraying them as "simpletons and idiots preying on people in subways and on streets."

AKRON, OHIO - Eta Tau Lambda Chapter, Akron, Ohio, co-sponsored the 6th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Lecture at the Main Library of the Akron-Summit County Public Library on January 14th at 2:00 PM. ABC News broadcaster Ray Nunn, well known for his recent ABC News Special "Growing Up Black in America" which aired in the fall of 1989.

DUKE UNIVERSITY - The Mary Lou Williams Center for Black Culture at Duke University held a "birthday party" for Dr. King on January 15th. Brother Floyd McKissick, veteran civil rights leader, was the speaker for the occasion and the Brothers of Kappa Omicron Chapter enlivened the celebration with a step show.

LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY As columnist William Raspberry keynoted the all-university King Celebration at Louisiana State University, the Brothers of Nu Psi at LSU helped support three days of remembrances.

Activities included a five-kilometer "Freedom Run" and a chapter sponsored Gospel Concert in addition to the January 15th main program. The LSU celebration also included the renaming of the Classroom Building to Tureaud Hall in honor of the late Brother A. P. Tureaud â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the New Orleans civil rights lawyer who successfully integrated the school.

the civil rights leader. Speakers included Zeta Nu President Ted Kemp and Professor Al Joyner. A tape of Dr. King's speeches was played and members of the audience shared their feeling about the man and his dream.

TEXAS A & M UNIVERSITY - The Brothers of Pi Omicron Chapter presented three programs in connection with the King Holiday. On January 15th the chapter presented "Reflections through Literature and Recitation" at noon and a candlelight vigil titled "Passing of the Torch" at 6:15 PM at Rudder Fountain. "Window for Tommorrow" was presented 7:15 following the vigil.

The standing-room-only crowd was reminded of the power of King through personal reflections, poetry and excerpts from his speeches. "When I think of Martin Luther King, I thing of young America" witnessed Brother France Brown. "Because of Dr. King's legacy, this generation has enjoyed unlimited opportunities. When we join gangs and arm ourselves with weapons of destruction and obscenity, we betray Dr. King's struggle."

DARTMOUTH COLLEGE - Theta Zeta Chapter presented a collection of readings from the works of Dr. King at 5:30 PM, following by an all-campus candlelight march. Other campus events featured Nigerian novelist Chinua Achebe, a reception featuring African music, presentation of anti-apartheid films and a campaign called "Celebrate Difference." The campaign, billed as a covenant against bigotry, asks participants to sign a written document asserting a belief in the equality of all people and justice for all. New Hampshire is one of only three states which does not recognize the King Holiday.

KANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY- Mem bers of Kappa Tau Chapter at KSU in Manhattan inaugurated Martin Luther King Jr. Recognition Week with their fourth annual Memorial Walk, culminating with a candlelight service at the school's All Faiths Chapel. The walk began as a Fraternity-only project and is now held in conjunction with the university's commemoration.

Continued on Page 29

AUBURN UNIVERSITY - Following a candlelight vigil sponsored by the Black Student Union and Amnesty International, the Brothers of Omicron Kappa Chapter at Auburn University (Auburn, Alabama) held their annual Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Program. Brother Kenneth Kelly read excerpts from Brother King's "Letters from a Birmingham JaiF and the keynote speaker was Auburn City Councilman Samuel Harris.

EASTERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY Zeta Nu Chapter sponsored its 2nd Annual King Holiday Commemoration with a march and program honoring Page 26

The Sphinx/Summer 1990

in

MS

KING DAY 1 9

s>

90

Principles are still Beacon Ligfhts or our Civil ization Bli Brother "

Frank

L. Stanley

Note: This article was written hy the late Brother Frank L. Stanley. IKtli Genera] President (1955-57) "tion " c l »ward-winniug r : d ' , ' , r a m l rVW"*"' » f t l , e l-imisville Defender, for the January 13. 1972 eclilm nf that publication.

a

Along with a multitude of m e n , women a n d children around t h e world, I too pay tribute to t h e memory of the apostle of n o n - v i o l e n c e , t h e late Dr. Martin Luther King, J r . , whose birthday we celebrate January 15.

Today, the principles for which Dr. King lived a n d died are still the beacon lights of our civilization — i n d e e d the very foundation of our existence.

I am o n e of the fortunate people w h o came to know, admire a n d follow Dr. King at the very beginning of his non-violent c r u s a d e . I had been invited in December 1955 to make a speech at Alabama State College in Montgomery.

This is the state university formerly h e a d e d by a very old friend, the Dr. Council Trenholm. U p o n arriving I found several Kentuckians a n d I was invited by Miss Betty J o h n s o n , a former Central High School librarian, to go hear h e r "very interesting, most e l o q u e n t , a n d promising minister."

T h e minister was Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Following services I was privileged to meet him a n d since he and I belonged to the same college fraternity, h e promised to come and hear me speak that evening at the college. H e came a n d following my address we were able to fraternize a bit together.

"General President Stanley, accompanied by Southern Vice President Swingler and General Secretary Huger, presents a check for $1000.00 to Rev. Brother M. L. King, Jr., Intelligently Militant Alpha leader of Montgomery, Alabama, as a first donation in the Alpha Campaign of "Dollars for Freedom" in Alabama, with Brother Arthur D. Shores of Birmingham, Alabama and others participating. This photo was taken on the front steps of the 100-year-old Montgomery, Alabama Court House where Brother King was on trial. Brothers Stanley and Huger went to Montgomery to stand with Brother King in this trying period."

- The History of Alpha Phi Alpha; A Development in College Life

Shortly thereafter in early 1956 the Montomery B u s Boycott began. Dr. King along with 100 other ministers was arrested. Subsequently, h e was m a d e t h e test case and was charged with conspiracy. As t h e President of our Fraternity, I felt t h e need to come to his a i d , b e c a u s e the only crime h e was guilty of was that of seeking freed o m , n o t only for himself but for all people. S o I went to Montgomery a n d stayed through his trial. Each afternoon I would attend the meetings and afterwards I would go to Dr. King's h o m e a n d visit with his father, wife a n d children. T h e successful b u s boycott was t h e beginning of his national a n d international fame.

In August of 1956 Dr. King won the most coveted award that Alpha P h i Alpha c a n bestow a n d was t h e principal speaker at t h e 50th Anniversary celebration of that fraternity. I was not only able to bestow that h o n o r upon h i m , but I was able to give leadership to the raising of a $ 1 0 , 0 0 0 fund in behalf of his movement.

I made a tape recording of his speech at t h e Semi-Centennial a n d u p o n returning to Kentucky I played it for a n u m b e r of p e o p l e , among whom was Dr. Rufus T. Atwood, then President of Kentucky State College. Dr. Atwood was s o tremendously impressed that h e asked me to intercede in obtaining Continued on Page 28

The Sphinx/Summer 1990

Page 27

KING DAY

A REMEMBRANCE

Continued from Page 27

Dr. King was the next Kentucky S t a l e College C o m m e n c e m e n t speaker. On June 2. 1957, Dr. King addressed the largest crowd ever to attend a Kentucky State College commencement. The crowd overflowed the largest auditorium available. It was my privilege to be asked

by Dr. Atwood to introduce Dr. King on that occasion. In all due modesty in this hour of memorializing our slain leader, here is what I said: " . . . Amidst the integration storms of recent months. Dr. King's clear calm voice has sounded from the bridge, pointing out the shoals ahead—charting a new path of freedom.

His philosophy has become the philosophy of the downtrodden people everyivhere. Perhaps no Negro has ever been the subject of so many writers or command as much respect as he.

"This leader of leaders is a man of reasoned judgment, fearless action, and unwavering devotion to the cause of human dignity. He is a living symbol of nonviolence, passive resistance, justice, love, and mercy. "'•It was he, in this day of great confusion festered by ill-considered acts of hate and wanton disregard for law and order, who met issues never faced by any other leader.

"4nd the inspiring thing is that he did this with an olympian poise unaived by violence, intimidation and reprisal, and undaunted by the fear of change.

"This philosopher, scholar, and humanitarian is an upright Christian soldier on the battlefield of decency and right.

Possessed with a priceless combination of sagacity, great social imagination, immunity to pressure and fidelity to truth, he is motivated by a lofty zeal to serve Cod and man.

"•Hut, like all truly great men oj accomplishment, he is, even at the tender age of 29, unaffected and unassuming. In him, humility

Page 28

•M-

•

Brother Frank L. Stanley and modesty are living virtues. Our world is deeply indebted to this man of impeccable character and cheerful temperment who has performed his chosen tasks with magnificent success under terrific odds.

He has given this broken world oj' ours a better understanding of the spiritual needs of its many diversified people.

"By an unmatched clarity of thinking, inflexible determination, and a ministering spirit of service in action, he has made distinct con-

tributions to Democracy which will never be forgotten.

"By his noble example, freedom has taken on a new meaning.

He has shown the world that full citizenship can only be derived from our actions, our beliefs and our individual willingness to accept the risks of freedom. " As I review this 1957 assessment of my friend, my Brother, and leader, I am more convinced that ever that Dr. King's murder leaves a void which will hardly ever be filled again. He fearlessly and selflessly lived out his beliefs and, indeed, he died for them.

His life and deeds will ever remain the guiding star for all men of good conscience and Christian beliefs. As we memorialize him on the anniversary of his birthday, we more challenged that ever to rededicate efforts to remove racism from the face of the earth and establish once and for all, a society—if you please—in which no one is held back because of the accident of birth, of the color of his skin, or his station in life.

Until we achieve this we will not erect a lasting memorial to this great man, nor will his birthday be officially or nationally proclaimed.

KINDRED SPIRITS In the accompanying article, the late Brother Frank L. Stanley remembers his friend and fraternity Brother - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. His assessment is so poignant that one can easily overlook the fact that Stanley himself was a charismatic leader. He was a crusading journalist and his Louisville Defender, along with other similar papers of this era, kept the AfricanAmerican community abreast of the vital issues of the day (with far less gossip and fluff). In a different time, under different circumstances, the young Brother King could have been a Stanley protege. It is a mark of Stanley's leadership that he scorned ego to deem himself a follower of 29 year old King; and used his offices to provide financial and moral support to Brother King via Alpha Phi Alpha. Above, General President Stanley joins his handpicked keynote speaker for Alpha's Golden Jubilee Celebration — his Brother and leader, Brother Martin Luther King, Jr. The Sphinx/Summer 1990

Letter To Martin Continued from Page 26 LOUISIANA TECH UNIVERSITY The Brothers of Eta Kappa Chapter sponsored a radio program and talk show on KLPI Radio saluting "The Dreamer". The chapter hosted "A Celebration of Martin Luther King fr" and a candlelight march beginning at 6:30 PM on January 15th at LTU in Ruston, Louisiana. The chapter next closed out the school's King Day calendar with a program titled "Beyond the Dream."

TAMPA, FL - Gamma Zeta Lambda Chapter commemorated the King Holiday with a program at New Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church. The program theme was "Achieving the Dream in the Nineties" and Brother (Rev.) Jasper Sanders was the keynote speaker. Brother Darryl Myles was the program chairman.

DOVER, DE - T h e Martin Luther King Jr. Prayer Breakfast was sponsored by Zeta Rho Lambda Chapter at the William Henry Middle School in Dover.

"We want to keep the movement alive.

The youngsters, especially, need to know about Dr. King's leadership, his non-violent movement, his dedication to people and causes," noted Brother Harden T. Watkins, breakfast organizer.

The featured speaker for the breakfast was Rev. Dr. William Rocky Brown III. GEORGIA TECH - The members of Nu Mu Chapter at the Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, paid tribute to Brother King via the "King Week Celebration" held January 7-11, 1990. On Sunday the chapter attended services at Antioch Baptist Church; Monday a forum on the status of Afro-American women was held, featuring female panelists from campus organizations.

Tuesday's focus was on the African American male, with a forum titled "Are You A Man or What?" The fourth event of the week was entitled "Greeks of the Round Table." The purpose of this program was to discuss the accomplishments and setbacks of the Black Greek-letter organizations. The final official event of the week looked at the status of Black Americans as a whole, with a cross-section of students discussing progress toward "The Dream."

Thursday night's crowd was also enterThe Sphinx/Summer 1990

By BENJAMIN F KRAFT Dear Martin: The best seat at the recent 6th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade was in the parade. While riding down the middle of N.W. 62nd Avenue on the back of a pick-up truck for the Alpha Phi Alpha FYaternity, I could see the faces of those who were seeing the parade. There is something about parades that gets people to turn out and get excited, and this one was no exception. Many, many folks came and A Message they were enthusiastic.

To A Youth On the faces were many emotions. The youngest were Who just happy to be there and be part of the excitement. p.

A T U The young at heart responded the same. Many older, Ltarea 10 ne "wiser" persons watched calmly without smiles, without Different waving. Most disturbing were the youngsters who refused to smile or wave even when singled out. One can only wonder at what disappointments in their lives could have created such distrust so early in life.

The most memorable moment for me was when a young brother of 11 or 12 years ran up to the pick-up and said to me, "I want to grow up and be just like you." I'll call him Martin, and his self esteem needs a lot of work.

He does not yet know that he can be himself and be a success.

At least, Martin is still showing a spark of some desire to improve his life.

Many of the young faces turned toward the parade that day had already been rendered expressionless, presumably by the hard life they are living.

There was no trust left, even of a smiling unknown person passing in a festive parade.

Martin's boldness is magnified by the fact that he was in a group of his peers. He must have risked some ridicule from his friends.

Well, I don't know if Martin heard my response in the midst of the noisy parade. If he did not, I hope that somewhere along his way the message of this letter will reach him. As I tried to tell him as the pick-up rolled away, "Martin, you don't need to try to be like anyone else. Just be yourself, and be good at it." That, Martin is within your control. Make the most of your every opportunity!

Dr. Benjamin F. Kraft is Associate of The Faculty at Florida Memorial College. tained by the award-winning dance group "Guess?"

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The USC community celebrated the King Holiday by helping others, both individually and on an organizational level. The Brothers of Theta Nu Chapter led the way with their unique project â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a blood drive sponsored in conjunction with the American Red Cross.

Student participation in the "Help Somebody" campaign at USC was high.

awards ceremony, held at Texas Southern University before a crowd of 1,200, was co sponsored by Alpha Phi Alpha, {Alpha Eta Lambda Chapter) Alpha Kappa Alpha and Anheuser-Busch Inc. Brother Henry Brown, Vice PresidentMarketing Development and Affairs for Anheuser-Busch, presented special awards to Brother (Rev.) Wyatt Tee Walker; Brother Walter Criner, Chair man of the TSU Board of Regents; and TSU President Dr. William Harris.

ORLANDO, FL - Delta Xi Lambda Chapter help its annual Drum Major Awards Luncheon on Saturday, January 13th. Retired Major General Titus Hall was the keynote speaker.

HOUSTON, TX - Martin Luther King Life and Legacy Awards in Houston honored local gospel musicians Hank Neal, Kathy Dailor and Ed Artis. The

CHICAGO STATE UNIVERSITY Brother Bruce Duncan, President of Nu Delta Chapter, represented the frat on the program of the all-university tribute held on January 19, 1990.

HUNTSVILLE, AL - The 5th Annual Unity Breakfast sponsored by Delta Theta Lambda Chapter brought toContinued on Page 30

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Continued from Page 29

gether individuals and organizations from across North Alabama in commemoration of the King Holiday.

Huntsville Mayor Steve Hettinger and Madison County Commissioner Dr. Prince Preyer brought greetings from their respective governments and Rev. Fred L. Shuttlesworth was the keynote speaker. More than 1,300 attendees witnessed MLK Unity Awards to Rev. Robert H. Loshaertos, Executive Minister of the Interfaith Mission Service, and Nurse Jean Dent, a stalwart health care provider.

UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI - Mem bers of Nu Upsilon Chapter awarded the Martin Luther King, Jr. Dreamer Award to Chancery Court Judge Patricia Weiss, one of the state's first Black jurists. The award is given yearly to an individual who has made outstanding contributing to the improvement of race relations in Mississippi.

EMORY UNIVERSITY - Mu Alpha Chapter hosted a Martin Luther King Commemorative Reception in the White Hall lobby of the Atlanta college.

KENT STATE UNIVERSITY - The Brothers of Epsilon Delta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha and the KSU Black United Students were the sponsors of the Martin Luther King Jr. Forum at Kent State University in Kent, Ohio.

Rev. Gregory Palmer, Pastor of Thomas United Methodist Church in Canton and President of the Canton Regional Transit Authority, was the keynote speaker for the affair.

COLUMBUS, GA - The Columbus Iron Works Convention and Trade Center was the venue for the Unity Breakfast sponsored by Delta Iota Lambda Chapter as a vehicle for promoting brotherhood in the community.

Rev. Henry O. Hardy of Chicago, chairman of the PUSH/CBS Negotiation Team, was the guest speaker for the occasion. Brother Hardy brought an inspirational message of self-love and self-help. This year's Unity Award was presented to the Columbus Metropolitan Urban League.

Tampa to pay homage to Brother King â&#x20AC;&#x201D; with a program of gospel music, an art exhibition and a re-enactment of King's famous "/ Have A Dream" speech. Theta Gamma rounded out the activities with a candlelight vigil in an area between the University Administration Building and the University Center.

VIRGINIA TECH - University and student leaders at the Blacksburg, Virginia school honored Dr. King with a banquet on what would have been his 61 st birthday. Brother David Sullivan of Theta Iota Chapter gave Brother King's "/ Have A Dream" speech and received a standing ovation.

COLUMBIA, SC - In an effort to establish a health oriented fund raising even while commemorating the birthday of Brother King, the Omicron Iota Lambda Chapter sponsored the First Annual Martin Luther King 5-K Run/Fun Walk on January 13th. Proceeds from the event were donated to the South Carolina Fire Marshal's "Get Alarm" program, which supplies smoke detectors to the poor and elderly. The state is ranked second nationally in the number of fire related deaths, many of which might have been prevented had smoke detectors been installed.

ST. LOUIS, MO - The 7th Annual Mar tin Luther King Life and Legacy Awards program was held in St. Louis, Missouri in January. The observance is sponsored annually by Anheuser-Busch, Inc. and Epsilon Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

This year's program - held at the Adam's Mark Hotel - was a musical tribute to the civil rights leaders and featured performances by stars of the St. Louis gospel scene, including the O'Neal Twins. Brother Henry H. Brown, Vice President - Marketing Development and Affairs, AnheuserBusch, Inc., termed the program "our way of remembering and celebrating the greatness of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. We at Anheuser-Busch are proud to participate in this observance as we all re-dedicate ourselves to Dr. King's higher ideals of human dignity and equality." Also present was Brother Wayman F. Smith, III, Vice President, Corporate Affairs, A n h e u s e r - B u s c h . Brother David Perine is the President of Epsilon Lambda Chapter.

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDAThe members of Theta Gamma Chapter joined with the USF community in Page 30

The Sphinx/Summer 1990

COMMENTARY What Does It Mean To Be Greek?

By Brother Huel D. Perkins Do Fraternities and Sororities improve the campuses and communities in which they operate? Are their actions in harmony with their lofty ideals?

HUEL D. PERKINS Self-examination aimed at the Greek-letter societies.

This Page

JAMES N. CONYERS A new look at the field of African-American studies.

Page 34

WILLIAM NELSON The Reagan-dominated Supreme Courts undermines civil rights gains.

Page 35

Brother Huel D. Perkins of Louisiana State University is Chairman of the Alpha Phi Alpha Education Foundation, Inc. This article consists of the text of a speech given by him to the Southeastern Interfraternity Conference, February 18, 1989 in Atlanta, Georgia.

So you wear your fraternity pin. So you hold rush week and try to attract those of like minds and like affinities and predilections. So you have a house with a trophy case filled with relics of contests won and almost won. So your fraternity brothers have been elected to state offices, to national offices and even to the presidency of these United States. So you have a sorority with whom you claim alliance and you serenade these girls twice a month. So you give wild parties at the house and celebrate the fact that today is Friday or just any reason to have one. So you wear your sweaters, your pins, your paraphernalia and you stand out as the envy The Sphinx/Summer 1990

of the non-Greeks on campus. You incur the ire of the independents.

You do all this and more. But what does it mean to be Greek?

How did we get to this point anyway? How did we get to the point that the Greeks are the most noticeable body of people on any college campus? You win all the elections.

You know all of the pretty girls. Let us begin at the beginning.

The first Greek letter society in America was Phi Beta Kappa, which was established on the campus of William and Mary in 1776. It began as a social group but very soon became the prestigious organization which it is today with membership based upon academic attainment. As far as we can discern, the first female group was founded at Wesleyan in Georgia in 1851 and became the Alpha Delta Pi sorority we know today.

Now the founding of these groups on college campuses comes to us as no surprise. Man is a gregarious animal. He delights in the commingling of kindred spirits. He finds always smaller groups to which he can relate.

Even on campuses where there are no fraternities and sororities, smaller clubs have sprung up in their places to address this sociological need of mankind. Yes, we naturally find smaller groups of like minds and souls to which we pledge our loyalties and our allegiances. So the establishment of the Greek system on c a m p u s e s was a natural evolution of things.

But what does it mean to be Greek in today's world a n d on today's campuses?

First of all, if you are serious about being Greek, then you are serious about being Greek-like. You have taken the names of Greek letters for. your fraternities. Now go one step further and really be Greek. What were the Greeks like: Continued on Page 32

Page 31

TO BE GREEK? ('ontinned from Fhge -il To begin with, the Greeks were nothing if they were not intellectuals.

The Greeks were the first to tell us what the mind was for. They were the first to ask the big questions and attempt answers to them: How do things come into being, have existence and then pass away? What are the duties and purposes of man on this earth? Is this a cosmos which can be studied? They were the thinkers— probers—trying to find out the "why" of all of this. They made the mind supreme in the affairs of men.

They tried to solve the riddle of life.

They tried to make this planet a better place to inhabit because they had passed this way. If you aren't engaging in some of these activities, you simply are not being Greek. Has your fraternity improved the institution at which it is located? Have you tried to provide the greatest good for the greatest number? Have you left a legacy of scholars, of men who have changed the world, of men who have distinguished themselves in some field of rational endeavor. If you haven't you aren't being Greek. You might border on being a Greek's opposite—a barbarian.

To be sure, the Greeks also played; in fact, they were the first to play and to play on a grand scale. They gave us the Olympics, you know. But—that was not the end-all and the be-all of Greek civilization. They saw these games as a means of stimulating excellence among themselves. They loved contests, they loved prizes— they gave us the Laurel Wreath to recognize superior acheivement. But they loved to think about this world and what was to become of it. I repeat, they liked to think about this world and what would become of it.

How many of you have paused just for a minute to think of where we are headed?

If you haven't given this a thought, let me plant some concerns for you to ponder.

For instance, have you thought about the growing illiteracy problem among us and where it will lead? In Louisiana alone, there are 350,000 men and women who cannot read and write. Their problem, you might say.

I would say to you that it is everybody's problem. I read a report recently entitled The Forgotten Half. It Page 32

said simply that if you don't have an education you don't have a future in this highly scientific and technological world. What are these illiterate people going to do? Are you prepared to help them? Does this sort of thing appeal to you fraternity boys who call yourselves Greek?

Or have you thought about the growing drug problem in our society? Is this fair game for the little fraternity boys? I think it is. This problem may one day engulf the nation and bring it to its knees. You cannot ignore a cancer such as this in our society. It will not go away without some dedicated individuals and specific measures taken to address the situation.

"Greeks must become serious about the things that matter ... because they consider themselves leaders.

Thus, they must tackle problems such as drugs, illiteracy and homelessness."

Or have you thought of the growing problem of single parent homes?

Why h a s this b e c o m e a recent phenomenon? Why does one out of every four marriages end up in divorce? Doesn't it bother you when, on television, 99 out of every 100 athletes interviewed says "Hi, Mom"?

Now there was a daddy somewhere.

Where have all the daddys gone?

And you must be concerned about this problem. It takes two to rear a child in the manner in which he or she should go.

Why am I regaling you fraternity boys with all of the problems of the world? Your mission is social, at least that is what I have read in some of my school papers at LSU. We are a social fraternity—that's what it is all about. Well, as Marcus Aurelius

reminds us in his Mediations: (Book VIII) "Everything exists for some end, a horse, a vine. Why dost they wonder?

Even the sun will say, I am for some purpose . . . For what purpose then art thou? To enjoy pleasure? See if common sense allows this.

You, at some point in your young adult life, must become serious about the things that matter. You must become serious because you consider yourselves leaders. And now, let me turn my thoughts to that concern.

What really is a leader? A leader is a man or woman who controls the actions of people called followers. He or she is a person with the capacity and the will to rally men and women to a common cause. He is a person with influence on people which causes them to listen to him, agree on goals and then go into action to attain these goals. He is ultimately one who is interested in the good of the group and not his own advancement.

Groups of people must be led. It is a social phenomenon. The Israelites besought God to send them a leader in the Old Testament. Plato in his Republic speaks of the ideal leader: one who by training and station and temperament is qualified to lead.

Human beings cannot advance constructively unless they are led.

Now if you wish to lead, and I trust that you are here because you have made that decision, here are some qualities you absolutely must possess: You must have intelligence, integrity, vision, sensitivity, strength and, above all, courage. You must be decisive; you must be able to withstand risks; you must be able to risk being unpopular; you must have unlimited confidence in yourself—and in what you are doing.

In addition, the leader must cultivate certain ideals of the leadership process: The leader does not say "get going"—but "let's go." He is not behind with a whip, but out in front with a banner. A good leader duplicates himself in others; can himself be led. He is not as interested in having his own way as he is in finding the best way. He is a self-starter. He creates plans and puts them into motion—both a dreamer and a doer.

And the leader keeps his eyes on high goals—the enrichment of personality, more abundant living, the improvement of civilization.

Continued on Page 33 The Sphinx/Summer 1990

TO BE GREEK? Continued from Pige -12 But most of all, the leader must be strong enough to really lead. He must have the courage of his convictions. He must be an instrument for change. He must make a difference during his tenure of office or he shouldn't have been there in the first place. For a leader to maintain the status quo of any organization is a waste of time. Why should he have been elected in the first place if he had no plans to move the fraternity forward—to take the group to new and unprecedented heights.

Do you leaders really have the guts to bring change about in your groups on our campuses? That's what is required of really, honest-to-goodness leaders. Let me just try one on for size. Were a black boy who is a topnotch scholar, on the Dean's List, snappy dresser, admired by the females on campus—in short, has everything any fraternity would like to see in a pledge, showed interest in becoming a member of your group— would color alone keep him out? To complicate matters, I will say that his BMOC, star of the basketball team, headed for a pro contract—would he be pledged on any campus represented here tonight? Think about it.

Would his accident of birth keep him from wearing your pin? To be sure, there are black fraternities. But they came into existence because blacks were denied admission into your groups. I belong to Alpha Phi Alpha, the oldest of the black g r o u p s founded on the campus of Cornell University in 1906—founded because seven black men felt ostracized and bound themselves together into a study club to provide mutual assistance as they sought to earn degrees from Cornell. But that was in 1906— what about 1996. Have we made much progress/ Don't tell me that blacks do not want to be a part of your groups. How would you know —you haven't rushed any of them.

Chances are that many would prefer to join all-black groups—but the option ought to be available to them—even if they choose not to affiliate.

Let's look at another touchy problem in fraternities—the problem of hazing. It has been outlawed in just about all fraternities and in just about every state in the union—yet it perThe Sphinx/Summer 1990

sists. Why? It baffles me that a group of educated men can engage in such insane behavior. You must base your acceptance criteria on something other than how much punishment or humiliation a prospective member can take. I know the object is to have him love the fraternity. How many of you would have loved your fraternity less if you had not been hazed? As an older man, let me tell you that I wouldn't have. I love my fraternity for the inspiration which it provides; for the association it brings about; for the friends it has provided. Do you realize that when you pledge a fraternity you are making one of the few choices one makes in life? You choose

"Do fraternity and sorority leaders really have the guts to bring change about in their groups on campus." your fraternity and you choose your wife. Just about everything else is thrust upon you. You don't choose your parents. You don't choose your name. But with your fraternity you choose the best man at your wedding, you choose your children's godfathers, you choose your close friends for the remainder of your lives. Why turn this beautiful opportunity into tragedy by taking someone's life or by maiming them for the remainder of their existence? Membership in a fraternity is simply not worth someone's life. I hope if you remember nothing else here tonight that you will return to your campuses and completely eliminate hazing. What are you trying to prove by making a pledge drink a fifth of Scotch without stopping?

What are you trying to prove by sending pledges on scavenger hunts and having one come back with a gunshot wound for trespassing?

Leaders, this has got to end. I suspect that one day someone will sue one of the fraternities, claim all its assets, and close it down forever.

Don't let the Greek system come to that. Stop while there is still time.

Finally, you leaders must keep before your groups the reason for this all. Fraternities exist on college campuses—but they exist in a framework of academe. You have come to college to get an education— not join a fraternity. When these aims are reversed, that's when the trouble starts. I once wrote that the semester that a brother is initiated into the fraternity is usually his last good semester in college. I have seen too many young men come to my office under academic suspension and identified the affiliation with the fraternity as the reason he would have to sit out a semester or a year.

The fraternity should assist a student in achieving his goal, not stand in the way of his academic objective. Of what good is a brother to his fraternity when, upon leaving the university, he becomes a bum on the street?

All fraternities like to point with pride to their members who have achieved recognition in this world— for this gives the fraternity status, gives it recognition, makes it reknown, allows you to show off at rush parties. No fraternity lists the number of members who have dropped out of school and never received a degree.

That is not what you are all about.

Yet, sometimes, the fraternity is the very reason that a student leaves college without a diploma—he simply partied too much.

Well, what does it mean to be Greek? To begin with, it means being Greek-like—using your mind—being cognizant of the problems of the day and attempting to bring solutions to them; it means being a leader in the truest sense of the world—courageous, sensitive, visionary, strong, confident; it means being agents for change in areas which are resistant and recalcitrant; it means using your organizations for something other than hedonistic, epicurean delights and making a difference in a world that needs to move off dead-center; it means becoming the finest young men that you can become—you are our youth, our hope for the future, our leaders of tomorrow; you are all that we have.

I have been talking about Greekdom and leadership. Let me close with two short verses that will reinforce both of these concepts. The first is on leadership and it comes from the lines form the Chinese philosopher Lao-Tau. He says: Continued an Page 34 Page 33

TO BE GREEK? Continued fromfti<i<>S3 A leader is best When people barely know he exists.

Not good when people obey and Acclaim him.

Worse when they despise him, "Fail to honor people, They fail to honor you."

But a good leader, who Talks a little, When his work is done, his Aim fulfilled.

They will say, "We Did this ourselves."

My final quotation comes from the civilization of Classical Antiquity and specifically from a drama by Sophocles entitled Antigone. It is quite a song to man and what he is capable of becoming. It gives him hope in the face of any problem he might encounter. Listen: Wonders are many on earth, and the greatest of these Is man, who ride the ocean and takes his way Through the deeps, through windswept valleys of perilous seas That surge and sway.

He is lord of all things living; birds of the air, Beast of the field, all creatures of the sea and land He takcth, cunning to capture and ensnare With sleight of hand; The use of language, the wind-swept motion of brain He learnt; found out the laws of living together In cities, building him shelter against the air And wintry weather.

There is nothing beyond his power.

His subtlety Meeteth all chance, all danger conquereth.

For every ill he hath found its remedy, Save only death.

You see, we can do everything in this world we wish to do. That includes leading—with courage— with conviction—our fraternities on our campuses in the Southeast region of this country.

Page 34

The Vital Role of African-American Studies An Afrocentric Analysis of Examining the Discipline of Africalogy

By Brother James Naazir Conyers This essay will address some of the misconceptions about the field of African American Studies. Importantly, I will use terminology such as Black Studies, African American Studies, or Africana Studies interchangeably to refer to the discipline of Africalogy. The word Africalogy means the study of African phenomena from an Afrocentric perspective.

Moreover, I will review and critique four general areas of criticisms that attack the legitimacy of African American Studies being a discipline of study within academies of higher learning.

Recently across the country on college campuses questions of inquiry are being raised such as where are the Black Studies programs that were established during the sixties? Is Black Studies on the incline or decline? My rebuttal is not a peripheral position on this topic but one that recognizes African American Studies on the up swing. The focus of this article is to examine and critique some of the generalized misconceptions about Africana Studies, and to submit an analysis as to the advancement of this discipline referred to as Africalogy. In examining some of the misconceptions about African American Studies some may raise questions such as: (1) What can a student do with a degree in Black Studies?

(2) Is it necessary to discuss the victories and contributions Africans throughout the diaspora have made to humanity when we live in a multicultural society?

(3) Are graduate programs in African-American Studies considered inferior and peripheral to Eurocentric disciplined departments?

(4) African American Studies is a monolithic study of African people and therefore considered interdisciplinary within western academic departments?

Firstly, I would submit that just as a student would use his or her degree in any of the social sciences and humanities, they would consider to use an equivalent degree in Africalogy.

The inference as to the legitimacy of a degree in any subject matter suggests two key problems: (a) African American Studies programs are considered more recreational than academic; and, (b) This questions the integrity and commitment of those scholars who work in the discipline of Africalogy. These allegations are fraudulently made against a constituency of practitioners who identify a location and theoretical grounding in the study of African phenomena from a primary reference, and not from a pedestrian or marginal mode of inquiry.

Secondly, it is necessary to discuss the victories and contributions Africans have made to humanity when living in a multicultural society. My contention is that it is a necessity.

Thus, African-American students on college campuses are not consistently given positive reinforcement about celebrating their Africanity, i.e. Black History Month. With the existence of African American Studies departments and programs, African American students would have the opportunity to recognize that it is important to celebrate February as African American History Month, but more importantly, that the contributions made by Africans cannot be celebrated in one month but self-consciously on a daily basis. Hopefully, this would give African-American students a new sense of self esteem and a new sense of their contributions to humanity and their role in making history.

Thirdly, we consider the notion that graduate programs in African American Studies are inferior to traditional disciplines. I would note that there are good and bad graduate programs of all disciplines across the Continued on Page 35 The Sphinx/Summer 1990

Africalogy Continued from Page 34 country. There are few departmental M. A. programs in African American Studies. The programs at Cornell University and Ohio State University are prolific programs. Importantly, the Temple University program should be raised and recognized as a model tor upcoming graduate programs to emulate offering the only Ph.D. in African American Studies with a M. A. program as well. However, with a small number of departmental graduate M. A. programs in African American Studies these academic units are faced with the challenges of producing quality graduate students with few resources, i.e. xerox copying, graduate stipends, support staff, visiting professorships, college work studies, full time faculty. Hopefully, with the next generation of activists and scholars there will emerge more quality Ph.D. and M.A. programs in Africalogy that will be committed to advancing the concept of a discipline.

tified as a scholar in the discipline not based on racial identity but on an issue and level of consciousness.

The analysis of this argument is twofold. Recently, there have been Africans and Europeans writing on the contributions made by Africans.

Scholars such as Yosef ben Jochannan, John Henrik Clarke, Ivan Van Sertima, Julius E. Thompson, Molefi Kete Asante, C. T. Keto, Kariamu WelshA s a n t e , Delores A l d r i d g e , Selase Williams, Carlene Young, Maulana Karenga, William Nelson, Norman Harris, Warren Swindle, Jacqueline Wade, Robert Farris Thompson, Herbert Apethekr and others who have demonstrated in their scholarship the retention a n d transformations of continental Africa that exist in the African American culture. These contributions are of great necessity. Secondly, there are organizations that are promoting the concept of African American Studies' theoretical grounding within an Afrocentric paradigm, such as the National Council of Black Studies and the African Heritage Studies Association. These organiza-

"African-American studies programs enlighten Blacks and non-Blacks alike concerning the contributions Africans and those of African descent have made to humanity while living in this multi-cultural society."

Fourthly, scholars in African American Studies are recognizing this body of knowledge as a discipline.

Just as there are concentrations in other Western disciplines, African American Studies as a discipline is focused on the study of African phenomena from an African-centered perspective, i.e. Sociology: medical sociologists, historical sociologist, etc. Thus, in African American Studies instead of developing the Eurocentric concept of departmentalization the scholar and student in the discipline of Africalogy would be well rounded to be educated in the social behavioral sciences and the cultural aesthetics. Yosef ben-Jochannon informs us in Pursuit of George James Stolen Legacy that the concept of departmentalization is Eurocentric.

This is why it is important that the scholar of Africalogy is educated wholistically and works from an Afrocentric perspective, and is idenThe Sphinx/Summer 1990

tions are active and making great contributions to the development of African American Studies.

Finally, in recognizing that Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is the oldest Black Greek-lettered fraternity, I recognize this organization to have a part in the advancement of African American Studies going into the 21st and 22nd centuries. It is with these great strides, these victories, this commitment to education and community that African Americans will not only survive but to regain the greatness that our ancestors once held.

Brother James Naazir Conyers is Director of African American Studies and Assistant Professor of African American Studies and Sociology at Monmouth College, West Long Branch, New Jersey. He is a member of Zeta Nu Lambda Chapter in Plainfield, New Jersey.

P

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SUPREME COURT POLITICS

By Brother William Nelson

This court is moving us bock to the days when American citizenship wos synonymous with White privilege and the rights of Blacks were considered irrelevant to the dictates of the Constitution.

Given the anti-civil rights posture of the current Supreme Court, it is difficult to believe that the Fourteenth Amendment remains a legal and valid component of the American Constitution. A conservative 5-4 majority appears to be intent on reducing the scope of Black rights under the Constitution despite the clear stipulation of the Fourteenth Amendment that all citizens should be accorded due process of law and equal protection of the law.

This amendment to the Constitution, coming on the heels of a bloody civil war fraught with racial conflict, w a s i n t e n d e d to specifically a n d categorically prohibit public officials from engaging in activities that fostered overt or covert acts of racial discrimination.

The well publicized efforts by city councilmen in Yonkers, New York to block the implementation of a court ordered housing desegregation plan is an almost perfect example of the kind of discriminatory behavior the Fourteenth Amendment was clearly designed to address. Responding to pressures from their White constituents, the Yonkers councilmen used their public offices to promote policies of housing of segregation that arbitrarily deprived Blacks of equal housing opportunities. Federal District Judge Leonard Sand found the City of Yonkers guilty of housing discrimination and ordered the city to develop and implement a scatteredsite housing desegregation program.

When members of the city council rose up in opposition to housing desegregation, the judge imposed on the councilmen a fine of $500.00 a day.

Judge Sand's action represented a proper and responsible use of judicial authority. Those who violate the law and seek to deprive minority citizens of their constitutional rights Continued on Page 36

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Continued from Page 35

should be prepared to suffer the consequences. It is, therefore, extraordinarily regrettable that the Supreme Court, afflicted with a serious case of legal amnesia regarding the purpose and scope of the Fourteenth Amendment, overturned Judge Sand's order and rescinded the fine imposed against the dissident Yonkers councilmen.

At a time when the nation at large seems to be in retreat on critical human rights issues, the Yonkers decision sends a dangerous message.

The message to local officials is clear: They are no longer expected by the courts to make minority-related issues top priorities in the public agenda. These officials now know they can engage in benign neglect of affirmative action issues without fear of legal repercussions by the Supreme Court. The message to federal district judges, the chief watchdogs of civil

rights issues, is also clear: the Supreme Court will now severely restrict their judicial power to discourage or eradicate discrimination by minorities by public officials.

The Yonkers case brings back painful reminders of the Supreme Court decision in the Civil Rights Cases of 1883. In this instance the Court invalidated civil rights legislation passed by Congress on the grounds that this legislation contravened the requirements of the Fourteenth Amendment for due process of law and equal protection of law. This decision set the stage for the Plessy vs. Ferguson decision of 1896 that opened the door to wholesale racial segregation and discrimination in every facet of American life.

In whirlwind fashion the current reactionary Court is moving this nation back to the dark and dismal days when American citizenship was synonymous with White privelege and the rights of Black citizens were considered to be irrelevant to the dictates of the Constitution. This is, to say the least, a frightening scenario.

It would be a sad commentary on the reckless use of judicial authority if this nation moved "back to the future" in the 21st Century on the wings of Supreme Court rulings that institutionalized White privilege at the expense of the constitutional rights of Black citizens.

William Nelson, Ph.D., is Professor and Chairman of the Department of African-American History at Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio.

T H E N A A C P NEEDS Y O U R HELP! As you know, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People is under siege, with bombings directed al its officials and offices. These bombings, other hate group activities, conflict on college campuses, and the U. S. Supreme Court's assault on affirmative action rudely remind us that "The Struggle Continues. \l this time of great crisis, the NAACP finds itself in dire need of increased financial support. Be assured that the organization will not he intimidated nor will it falter in its efforts to secure freedom, justice and equity for our people.

However, it needs your support, financial and otherwise, like it seldom has.

The NAACP is having to increase its budget by several million dollars on a sustaining basis in order to respond to the increasing crisis at the level required. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, which has supported the organization through past years, is again being called on for support. As Chair of the "-Thousandaire Club" of the NAACP, a new avenue for philanthropic support to this great organization, I am asking that Alpha Phi Alpha support the NAACP during the upcoming Genera) Convention and that each Alpha Chapter give an immediate gift. Your Chapter's donation of $100, $200 or more will do much to sustain our effort to secure larger contributions.

No one knows any better than I that Alpha Phi Alpha is in the middle of a National Headquarters Building Fund Drive. As you remember, this drive was inaugurated during my administration as your General President. Yet, we as Alpha Men cannot neglect the str uggle ami the need that is clearly before us. "If 1 am not for myself, then who shall be for me," says a famous quotation, "But if I am only for myself then what am I." Alpha Phi Alpha can, and must, do both and I urge you to help the NAACP meet this crisis in the African-American experience. We can afford to do no less.

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The Sphinx/Summer 1990

ALPHAS ON THE MQVE

Brother Stephen Conley

Brother Raymond R. Brown has recently retired as a faculty member with the University of Akron's Social Work Department after 34 years of s e r v i c e . He w a s h o n o r e d on December 12, 1990 on the campus at a farewell r e c e p t i o n w h i c h w a s opened to the public and received a p r e s e n t a t i o n for his w o r k from Brother Dr. Wallace Williams, Dean of College of Fine and Applied Arts.

Previously, Brother Brown served 19 years as Executive Director of the Akron Community Service Center and Urban League in Akron, Ohio.

A d d i t i o n a l l y , he w a s t h e Urban Leagues Midwestern Regional D i r e c t o r for n i n e y e a r s u n t i l retirement in 1972.

Brother Brown became the first black to serve on the Akron-Summit County Public Library Board, and in 1968 became the first black to serve on the State of Ohio Library Board.

He has also completed a graduate study fellowship at New York University from the Ford Foundation for Adult Education and is the recipient of an honorary doctorate of public service from Rio Grande College.

He is an active member of Eta Tau Lambda Chapter and has served as Chairman of several committees and is one of its founders also.

Brother Brown has had a tremendous impact on the lives of so many p e o p l e t h r o u g h his impartiality, The Sphinx/Summer 1990

outstanding integrity, character and professional competence. Here is a true Alpha man of manly deeds who has proven that servants of all is the central core of his living. An Alpha salute to this giant but humble Alpha Brother.

Brother Stephen Conley, a member of Eta Psi Chapter at Texas Christian University, is a three-year letterman with the TCU football team (1987 thru 1989). He served as a member of the football team's Leadership Council.

Brother Conley is pursuing a B. S. degree in Nursing and is active with the Student Nursing Association. He notes that the combination of his major and his athletic skills provide him with a unique perspective on the needs of young people. He takes advantage of that insight by tutoring inner-city youth each weekend.

A native of Tyler, Texas, Brother Conley looks forward to completing his final year of studies and passing his state boards.

Illlllllllllll Brother Ricardo Deveaux, President of the Student Government Association at Bethune-Cookman College, has capped off his senior year with additional honors.

During the past term he has served as Treasurer of Psi Chi Honor Society

and was name the school's "Most Outstanding Senior". He also served as Secretary of Delta Beta Chapter.

Brother Havert Fenn has been elected Chairman of the Fort PierccSt. Lucie C o u n t y ( F l o r i d a ) Fire District. The 7-member countywide Fire Board is c o m p o s e d of t w o elected officials each from the cities of Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie, the C o u n t y Commission and one appointee by the Governor of Florida.

The Fire District is an independent taxing body with a budget in excess of $12 million.

Brother Fenn, a St. Lucie County Commissioner, is one of two representatives from that body. Commissioner Fenn is serving his third twoyear term on the Fire Board. He served once while a member of the Fort Pierce City Commission and twice as a County Commissioner.

Brother Leon Gillyard is a sophomore at Bethune-Cookman College majoring in Computer Information Systems. Brother Gillyard boasts a 3.24 gpa (4 point scale). He was an Academic Merit Scholar during 198889 and was on the Academic Dean's List.

A Peer Counselor at BCC, Brother Gillyard is Treasurer of AcShun and is active with Model United Nations.

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ALPHA? ON THE M9VE

Brother Lucas L. Johnson, II

Brother Patrick O'Neal Jefferson is a young Christian brother who has a commitment to helping others and a commitment of academic excellence.

Jefferson believes like the song says that if he can help somebody, then his living will not have been in vain.

Brother Jefferson is a recent summa cum hutdc g r a d u a t e of D i l l a r d University in New Orleans and served as Student Marshall for the class.

Also while at Dillard, he was President of the Senior Class, a member of the Executive Board of the Student Government Association and was a member of the Executive Board for his college chapter of the NAACP. In a d d i t i o n , he is a m e m b e r of Phi Alpha Theta, Alpha Kappa Mu, and President of Alpha Chi National Honor Society. He is also listed in Who's W h o a n d in O u t s t a n d i n g Young Men of America. Jefferson is an Academic Ail-American and listed on the National Dean's List.

Jefferson also helped to start a c o l l e g e c h a p t e r of H a b i t a t for Humanity and was a member of the Trustee-Student Liaison Committee, Honors Day Committee, and several other committees at Dillard. He was appointed by the President of the University to serve on these various committees.

Last summer Brother Jefferson was very busy and looks forward to being e v e n b u s i e r t h i s s u m m e r . Last summer he was in Washington, D. C. learning about diplomatic service Page 38

careers under a program sponsored by the U. S. Information Agency (USIA), and he studied public policy and international affairs for eight weeks at a junior institute at the Woodrow Wilson School at Princeton University.

Despite his activities, he still found time to attend the 83rd Anniversary c o n v e n t i o n in San A n t o n i o . H e represented the Southwest region as College Brother of the Year.

This s u m m e r Jefferson plans to attend the senior institute for public policy and international affairs at the Lyndon B. Johnson School at the University of Texas at Austin and he plans to serve as an instructional assistant at Dillard University with a program that the university has for Japanese students. After his duties are completed, he plans to attend the 84th Anniversary Convention, resume his duties as convention Sergeant-atArms, and represent the Southwest Region as College Brother of the Year.

Recently, Brother Jefferson was h o n o r e d by the w o m e n of Delta Sigma Theta (Southwest Region) as being the Most Outstanding Scholar at Dillard and he was a semi-finalist for a Rhodes Scholarship to study at Oxford University. Jefferson is very active in his church, his chapter, his community and has been honored by the city of New Orleans, Religious Heritage of America, the YMCA, and Dillard University. Jefferson will a p p e a r t h i s s u m m e r in Black Excellence and Upskill.

He plans to further his studies at the University of Toronto and he attributes all of his success to God and his mother Ms. Louria D. Jefferson.

Brother Lucas L. Johnson II, is a junior at Middle Tennessee State University majoring in Journalism (newswriting and copy-editing). He is also a newswriter and editorial writer for his college newsletter, Sidelines, and has interned with the Tri-State Defender newspaper in his hometown of Memphis, Tennessee.

Brother Johnson writes both prose and poetry, and one of his poems has gained him national acclaim and attention.

Brother Johnson's poem, entitled "The Men Who Gave, Even Themselves", was written in commemoration of the United States fighting men who died in the Vietnam War. Says J o h n s o n , "It is an u n d y i n g theme of patriotism and sincerity that every citizen of the United States of America should pay everyday to those men who served and died in past wars."

"True e n o u g h , " he adds, "these wars and soldiers are in the past, but the reason these morbid memories should be resurrected lies solely upon the price that many of them paid. They gave their most prized possession. They gave themselves."

The poem has been displayed in Tennessee veterans hospitals and published in national publications The Sphinx/Summer 1990

IAUHAS QN THE M9VE

Brother Stanley I. Osborne, Jr. such as The Crisis and The Tennessee VFW News. Work is underway to have the poem displayed in VA facilities across the nation.

Brother J o h n s o n was given the G o l d e n Poet Award for 1989, in recognition of this poem, by World of P o e t r y at t h e c o n v e n t i o n in Washington, DC. He is a member of Gamma Beta Phi National Collegiate Honor Society, Mu Xi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha, and is a Scripps Howard Newspaper Award Winner.

Illlllllllllll Six years ago, the award-winning poet/writer Brother Rayfer Earl'e Mainor took on a "life time commitment" to bring focus on children's needs, especially in relation to issues involving drugs and education.

Rayfer wrote 'A Love Story' in 1984 w h i c h c e l e b r a t e s t h e s p i r i t of c h i l d r e n . It e x p l o r e s a p o s i t i v e relationship between father and child and speculates on how and what we must contribute today to make a better world for our children to live in tomorrow.

For the image which he projects in general and for his works in poetry in particular, Esquire magazine and its Board of Editors have saluted the award-winning poet "as part of a generation of Americans unmatched by any before it in idealism, energy and accomplishment." Rayfer was h e r a l d e d b y Esquire for t w o consecutive years as "an extraordinary American, whose spirit, ingenuity, The Sphinx/Summer 1990

and vitality have impacted our lives and our future."

Whenever the opportunity presents itself, Brother Mainor p r e s e n t s a copy of his 'Love Story' to people and organizations in key positions and with great influence and who can bring about change in and for the direction of children. New York's Mayor, Brother David N o r m a n Dinkins, is one of them. He told Rayfer, "We share a love for children and a deep concern for their welfare.

Children will most definitely be a priority in my administration." When Brother Dinkins was sworn in as Mayor, he d e d i c a t a t e d h i s n e w administration to the city's children, saying that "Kids are Key." The nation's first elected black governor, the Honorable Lawrence Douglas Wilder is another. He wrote to the poet, "I will continue to move Virginia f o r w a r d . I have in fact dedicated the 90's as the 'Decade of Youth and Families.'" And talk show host Oprah Winfrey, who was presented a copy of 'Love Story' declared 1990 "Year of the Child." She will dedicate one program a month on her nationally acclaimed "The Oprah Winfrey Show" to focus on children's issues.

Illlllllllllll Brother Vincent M. Mathews, a member of Eta Psi Chapter at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, is an h o n o r s t u d e n t with a d o u b l e

major in Radio/Television/Film and Political S c i e n c e . T h e M a l v e r n , Arkansas native entered TCU as a National Merit Scholar in 1986.

Brother Mathews boasts a 3.2 gpa (4 point scale) and is active with the International Students Organization.

He was selected to work at the 1988 Democratic National Convention and served an internship in the capital during Fall 1989. He plans to attend graduate school and become a political lobbyist for education and environmental causes.

Illlllllllllll Brother Joseph Noel is a sophomore Political Science major at BethuneCookman College in Daytona Beach, Florida. He is both a BCC and Rotary Club Scholar and was the 1988 winner of the S a n d y Niniger Medal and Scholarship.

B r o t h e r N o e l is S e c r e t a r y of Toastmaster's International and Historian of Model United Nations.

He is also a member of the ROTC, Key Club and NAACP.

Illlllllllllll Brother Stanley I. Osborne, Jr. is a s e n i o r P h i l o s o p h y major at t h e C o l l e g e of William a n d Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. He served as President of Kappa Pi Chapter for the past two terms, 1988-89 and 1989-90.

He is a native of Norfolk.

Brother Osborne also served as P r e s i d e n t of t h e Black S t u d e n t O r g a n i z a t i o n at William & Mary Page 39

ALPHA? O N THE MOVE d u r i n g 1989-90, o r g a n i z i n g a n d h o s t i n g t h e 4th N a t i o n a l Black Student Leadership & Development Conference.

He is active with a host of campus organizations, including the Young Democrats, the Black Greek Caucus, Men's Ensemble and the Ebony Expressions Gospel Choir. His volunteer efforts involve Big Brothers, where he is a peer facilitator, Children of the sun Head Start, Housing Partnerships and Williamsburg Area Tutorial Service.

During 1989, Brother Osborne was selected College Brother of the Year by the State of Virginia and the Eastern Region.

Brother Rodney O. Parks, a junior at A r k a n s a s Tech U n i v e r s i t y in Russellville, Arkansas, has forged a busy college career at his hometown s c h o o l . I n i t i a t e d i n t o Nu Alpha Chapter at ATU on December 7, 1988, Brother Parks served as Chapter Vice President for the 1989-90 school year.

During his sophomore year, Brother Parks was an exchange student to Westfield State College in Massachusetts and was affiliated with Alpha Kappa Chapter in Springfield, MA. Brother Parks was extremely active in campus affairs during the 1989-90 term, serving also as Vice President of the Student Government Association and Vice President of the Young Democrats of Arkansas at ATU. He chaired the Multicultural Committee of SGA and was a member of the Association of Black Students at ATU. In recognition of his accomplishments, he was selected to Who's Who Among Students at American Colleges and Universities.

With a major in Economics and F i n a n c e , Brother Parks p l a n s to pursue either law or business school following graduation.

Illlllllllllll Brother Barry L. Ray, a senior I n d u s t r i a l E n g i n e e r i n g major at North Carolina A & T State University, boasts a 3.19 gpa (4 point scale) and has been on the University Dean's List since January 1986.

Brother Ray, a native of Wilson, NC, is a member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society, Alpha Pi Mu Industrial Page 40

Engineering Honor Society and Tau Beta Pi National Engineering Honor Society. He received the National Engineering Achievement Award and the 1988-89 Alpha Phi Alpha Scholastic Achievement Award.

President of the University Co-Op Club since 1987, Brother Ray is Vice President of Beta Epsilon Chapter and the NC A&T Student Chapter of the NAACP. He has also been active with the University Senate, the University Council of Presidents, PanHellenic Council and the SGA. He chaired the SGA Publicity and Black College Day committees in 1987 and its "Project One Vote" campaign in 1988. He served as a Marshall for the 1986 F o r s y t h C o u n t y , G e o r g i a Brotherhood March and a Delegate to the 1988 25th Anniversary March on Washington.

An award-winning orator, Brother Ray was the North Carolina College Brother of the Year in 1988-89. He was initiated into Beta Epsilon on April 1, 1988

Illlllllllllll Brother Melvin C. Terrell, Vice President for Student Affairs, and a s s o c i a t e professor of c o u n s e l o r education at Northeastern Illinois University, recently received the Scott G o o d n i g h t Award for O u t standing Performance as a student personnel administrator from the N a t i o n a l A s s o c i a t i o n of S t u d e n t Personnel Administrators Region IVEast (Midwest).

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Criteria for the award were strong administrative skills, campus-wide support and stature, innovative response to faculty and students' n e e d s , significant c o n t r i b u t i o n s t h r o u g h p u b l i c a t i o n s to t h e profession, and community leadership.

Terrell received his bachelor of science degree in education from Chicago State University, a master's degree in education from Loyola University in Chicago and his Ph.D. degree in higher education adminis t r a t i o n from S o u t h e r n Illinois University.

Illlllllllllll Brother Lawrence H. Thompson is a sophomore at Bethune-Cookman College majoring in History/Pre-Law. He has attained a 3.7 gpa (4 point scale) and was named to the National Dean's List.

Active with Model United Nations and the NAACP, Brother Thompson was BCC's r e p r e s e n t a t i v e to the Southern Regional Honors Conference held in Birmingham, Alabama in March 1989.

Brother Archie L. Young has been chosen College Brother of the Year 1990 by Delta Psi Chapter at Florida Memorial College, the State of Florida and the Southern Region. He will compete for this honor on the national level at the 1990 General Convention in Miami, Florida.

A senior Criminal Justice major, Brother Young boasts a 3.68 gpa on the 4 point scale. He is a graduate of Murray Wright High School in Detroit, Michigan and was initiated on April 22, 1987.

In his junior year, Brother Young served as FMC Homecoming King, garnered the Best Actor award in the Theatre Player's Guild and was on the National Dean's List.

During 1989-90, his senior term, Brother Young has served as Delta Psi President, President of Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society and Vice President of the Student Government Association.

Brother Young, who plans to attend law school and become a corporate attorney, is also active with the PanHellenic Council and the Michigan State Club.

The Sphinx/Summer 1990

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Brother Fred Langley of Zeta Lambda Chapter, Newport News, Virginia, present* a copy of the biography of Brother Lutrelle F Palmer to Mrs. Michael Williams-Hickman, Principal of the elementary school named in honor of Brother Palmer. The biography, "A lonely Place Against The Ski/", reveals pioneering educator's struggles on behalf of Black teachers and 'students during the years of blatant segregation and discrimination.

NEWPORT NEWS, VA Zeta Lambda Salutes 50 Year Members The Brothers of Zeta Lambda have had a momentous year. The highlights of the year include recognition of our fifty year members. In addition, Zeta Lambda acknowledged the outstanding contributions of acclaimed author and Brother Lutrelle F. Palmer.

The Founders' Day Banquet marked the culmination of a memorable year.

First, we saluted our fifty year members. They were recognized for their service to the community and dedication to the fraternity. We salute the following brothers: William W. Ross, Frank W. Scott, Walter Solomon, Joseph Jones, William Bernard Howard, Clarence C. Johnson, and Otis H. Smith.

Their life experiences have given

our chapter a focus for years to come.

Part of that focus is to continue offering scholarships for high school graduates. Supporting community youth programs for the underprivileged will continue to be a priority for Zeta Lambda. Also, we shall institute tutorial services to the children of the community. The achievements of our 50 year Brothers have generated a glowing light in darkness throughout the community.

Secondly, Zeta Lambda applauded the efforts of distinguished author, Brother Lutrelle Palmer. We presented the biography, "A Lonely Place Against The Sky" to Lutrelle F. Palmer Elementary School. This school was named for Brother Palmer. He was a pioneer for equal pay for Black teachers in Newport News, Virginia. The biography outlined struggle in this effort. In addition, the indignities that Brother Palmer suffered as a humanitarian who was working for equality during the segregation years are also revealed. He was fired from his position as a high school principal as a reprisal for his efforts on the behalf of Black teachers. However, many years after his death, a new elementary school was dedicated in memory of his efforts. Brother Fred H. Langley presented Mrs. Michael Williams-Hickman, School Principal, a copy of the book. This copy will Page 41

reside in the Resource Center of the School. We salute Brother Lutrelle F. Palmer, author, civil rights pioneer, and an Alpha Man! Thirdly, Zeta Lambda celebrated its annual Founder's Day Banquet. It was co-hosted with the Brothers of Delta Beta Lambda, Hampton, Virginia. Brother James Coleman, Jr. delivered our keynote address.

In conclusion, the Brothers of Zeta Lambda have served as trendsetters for change. We look forward to continuing to be at the forefront for the betterment of humanity.

FREEPORT, NY Eta Theta Lambda Repeats Black College Tour The Brothers of Eta Theta Lambda Chapter have again undertaken their annual College Tour, which was held on October 21-29, 1989. For the past eight years, the chapter has sponsored a tour of Black college and universities with the Eta Theta Lambda Education Foundation, Inc. sponsoring the last two tours. The 1989 tour consisted of 122 African American or Latino high school students (50% males) predominately from the Long Island area in New York. These students visited 12 campuses - Morgan State University, Howard University, Hampton University, Virginia State University, South Carolina State College, Fisk University, Tennessee State University, Alabama A&M University, Tuskegee University, Spelman College, Clark College and Morehouse College.

Although the primary purpose of the tour is to acquaint high school students with historically Black colleges and universities, the tour was also structured to assist students attain a maximum test score on the SAT; thus three SAT study skill workshops were conducted in which such issues as "taking the test" and "approaching the test" were stressed, and with a definite focus on mathematics and English. Other programs explored short and long range educational/career goals and the role of school placement services. Lastly, the workshops stressed interpersonal relationships, including sexuality and general conduct expectations throughout the tour.

The College Tours must be considPage 42

ered a high success as witnessed by the remarks elicited at the debriefing session held Nov. 19, 1989 at the First Presbyterian Church in Hempstead.

There were 96 persons in attendance (parents & students) at the debriefing session and the comments were overwhelmingly positive. Many parents expressed a desire for us to expand the tours. Due in part to these comments and other considerations, Eta Theta Lambda Chapter conducted a Spring College Tour from Sunday, April 8 thru Saturday, April 14, 1990.

The brothers of Eta Theta Lambda Chapter wish to express their deep sense of gratitude for the hospitality and graciousness displayed by the College and Alumni Brothers to all tour participants. We are especially indebted to the College Brothers of Beta Chapter - Howard University who were as usual, very fraternal, while the brothers of Beta Delta Chapter - South Carolina State (Orangeburg) were outstandingly gracious to the tour group. In spite of receiving short notification, they turned out in impressive numbers and demonstrated a strong fraternal spirit. Likewise, the small, but close knit group Beta Gamma Chapter Virginia State University has continually looked forward to our visit year after year. Equally outstanding were the College Brothers at Delta Gamma (Alabama A&M) and Delta Theta Lambda Brothers who "rolled out the carpet" and served very graciously as host to the tour group; in addition they sponsored a disco and barbecue for the tour participants. Incidentally, the current Eta Theta Lambda Chapter President, Brother Ernest Williams, crossed the burning sands in 1967 at Delta Gamma Chapter.

Lastly, we would be remiss if we did not express our deep appreciation to the eight female chaperones for their significant contribution to the tour. These ladies are from diverse backgrounds including guidance counseling, nursing, and the public sector. Ms. Pat Francis, wife of Brother Norris Francis, has become a regular on the college tour. We are indeed grateful to Brother John Swann (Washington, D.C.) who contributed his expertise and set the pace for the SAT workshops. The following Eta Theta Lambda Brothers served as chaperones - Charles Goodman, Robert Horton, Douglas Steele, James Durant, Timothy Eatman (Eta Chapter), and the Eta Theta

Lambda leaders were Brothers George Mims - College Tour coordinator, Ernest Williams - Chapter President, Edwin Monteverde - President of the Education Foundation and Eddie Gripper - Treasurer of both the Chapter and the Education Foundation.

FRANKFURT, WEST GERMANY Theta Theta Lambda Observes Martin Luther King Holiday Greetings to all Brothers in Alphadom from Theta Theta Lambda Chapter, Frankfurt, West Germany.

January 13, 1990 was an inspirational evening for all persons in attendance at Theta Theta Lambda's annual Martin Luther King Jr. Observance. Brother Bill Gamble took the audience back in time to the historic March on Washington in August 1963. Brother Gamble, a participant in that march, made the audience feel the same anger, joy, and hope that the scores of people felt on that humid, history-making day. Brother Gamble's speech was an inspirational and truly heartwarming tribute to Brother King. Thanks, Brother Gamble, for sharing your experiences and enlightening our lives. Brother Gamble was not the only Alpha Light shining in West Germany during Black History Month.

Brothers Wayne Andrews, Mel Jones, William Price, and Johnny Wilson were all guest speakers at various programs for Brother Martin Luther King, Jr. and Black History Month celebrations. Hats off to these Brothers for "Keeping the Dream Alive."

As we move further into the month of February, 125 (plus) Brothers and guests eagerly await Theta Theta Lambda's third annual Ski Trip. "Black and Gold on the slopes of the Swiss Alps '90" is guaranteed to be filled with fun and excitement for all participants.

Theta Theta Lambda, recognizing the need for academic excellence, is kicking off its annual scholarship drive. The scholarships to be given away this year will be the largest ever in the history of Theta Theta Lambda. These scholarships will be presented during the 1st Annual European Networking Council Ball on 19 May 1990. Theta Theta Lambda has been bestowed with the honor of hosting this first annual ball, and we The Sphinx/Summer 1990

give our word as Alpha Men that this will be an '06' Success.

The Brothers of Theta Theta Lambda extend their invitation to any Brothers being assigned or visiting Germany to share in our fellowship. Our Light is Your Light, "HOLD ALPHA HIGH." -Andre F. Washington (Suave)

RICHMOND, VA Beta Gamma Lambda Sponsors Project Alpha The Beta Gamma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. sponsored a program titled "A Manto-Man Talk About Teen Pregnancy."

The event was held at the Maggie Walker Building, Richmond Public Schools, Richmond, Virginia, on January 17, 1990.

The facilitators were Brother Dr. Arnold R. Henderson II and Brother Dr. George H. Johnson. Panelists were Dr. Ellwood Boone, Brother Dr. Wesley B. Carter, Brother William A. Carter, Brother Eugene D. Cheek, Mr. Robert B. Peay, Brother Reverend Wilbert D. Talley, and Ms. Viteria Ward law.

Project Alpha in Richmond, Virginia was a tremendous Success.

Discussion leaders were Brothers James Fleming, Eric D. Campbell, Adrian V. Nelson, and Terry C. Williams. The host for the event was Mr. Jerry Browder, Principal, Adult Career Development Center.

The program was a tremendous success, having in attendance fortythree fine y o u n g men giving a n d r e c e i v i n g d u r i n g a full day of activities.

The Committee members responsible for this very professional and successful affair deserve the highest praise. They did Project Alpha proud.

The members were Brothers John E. Nickens, Chairman, Carl I. Bagby, Eric D. Campbell, James Fleming, G e o r g e H. J o h n s o n , Revardo C. The Sphinx/Summer 1990

Pretlow and Wilbur E. McConico.

The program consisted of subject matter centering around human reproduction, transmission of diseases, social development, values, and the legal ramifications of individuals' actions. The material was handled through panel and group discussions with question and answer periods and group reports.

Brother James Fleming shared the evaluations with the group and closing remarks were provided by Brother John E. Nickens, Program Chairman, and Brother Frederick Amy, Sr., President, Beta Gamma Lambda.

H. T. Hill, jr.

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ANNAPOLIS, MP Eta Eta Lambda Remembers The Seven Jewels

The Brothers of Eta Eta Lambda Chapter held their Founder's Day program on December 10, 1989 at the Ramada Inn hotel in Annapolis, Maryland. The activity was a dinner and the histories of the national and local organizations.

Brother Aris T Allen made a beautiful presentation on the History of Alpha Phi Alpha. His presentation was most informative to our guests and uplifting to the brothers of the chapter.

Brother Robert Haygood, one of the charter members of Eta Eta Lambda Chapter, did a very interesting presentation of the local chapter from the chartering to the present.

Brothers in attendance were: John Covert, Ed Johnson, Harrell S. Spruill, William S. Keyes, Rufus Abernethy, Gordon Branham, Charles E. Gibbs, Aris T. Allen, Robert Haygood, Jerry Luck, Robert Brooks and William A. Hayes.

As a direct result of this activity five gentlemen who were part of this activity as guests expressed their desires to become brothers. At our smoker the five gentlemen with interest came with another friend who also wanted to know more about what we are all about. All six gentlemen became Sphinxmen.

This founder's day activity was the most productive one of our short history. The wives and sweethearts supported this activity 100%.

-William A. Hayes

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AKRON, OH Community Service Identifies Eta Tau Lambda

The brothers of Eta Tau Lambda send greetings to the Brotherhood and are pleased to share news of its efforts to be "Servants of All".

On December 2, 1989, Eta Tau Lambda celebrated Annual Founder's Day at the Akron City Club in downtown Akron, Ohio. Brother James R. Williams was the Master of Ceremonies for the program and deftly guided the capacity crowd through the different events. After welcoming remarks by Brother Othello Skinner, Chapter President, Brother David Brown read the history and achievements of the past year of the Chapter. The Black and Gold Singers provided several ear-pleasing songs for the gathering, under the direction of Brother Skinner. Then Brother Robert Bender presented those brothers recognized for the services to the community and the fraternity. Those recognized were Brother William Miller, Service to the Community and Brother Roger Johnson, Service to the Fraternity.

Brother Williams then introduced three notable guests and brothers and spoke of their unique career achievements and asked each to share comments. Those responding were Brother James Crutchfield, Managing Editor, Akron Beacon Journal, Brother William Lewis, III, Director, Black Culture Center, University of Akron and Brother Lenny Wilkens, Coach, Cleveland Cavaliers. Brother Leonard Nichols closed out the program with benediction.

Our Annual Formal was held on Saturday, December 23rd in the ballroom of Holiday Inn, Hudson, Ohio.

It is noteworthy that this is the longest, continuously held event of its type in Northeastern Ohio. Despite the severe and inclement weather, more than 500 persons were Page 43

present and thoroughly enjoyed themselves. One of the highlights of the evening was the introduction of the newest chapter brothers who just completed their pledging requirements. They are Brothers Pierre Irvine, Carl Lewis, Innocent Okolo and Anthony Barnes. Four more to hold the flame higher and become "Servants of All".

On February 11th, our Annual Valentine Party was held in the beautiful Cascade Club at the very top of Holiday Inn in downtown Akron. The brothers, wives and guests enjoyed a delicious meal while listening to soothing mood music played by Pee Wee Herman and his Jazz Band. The Black and Gold Singers, led by Brother Skinner rendered a medley of Stevie Wonder's tunes, with solos

by Brothers David Brown, Ron Brown and Paul Winters. During the singing of the solos, the other brothers; Marvin Rasberry, Bill Lindsey, Patrick Bartee and Tony King provided some soft shoe syncopated movements with finger popping cadences that both suprised and pleased the assembled crowd. A big suprise was the singing of that beautiful ballad "If"

by Brother Patrick Bartee accompanied by Brother Skinner. The crowd gave him a rousing round of applause to show its appreciation.

Brother James R. Williams was the Master of Ceremonies for the evening's program.

On January 14, 1990, the 6th Annual Dr. Martin L. King, Jr. celebration was held at the downtown library in Akron. This event was sponsored by Eta Tau Lambda, in conjunction with the Akron-Summit County Library and the Akron Urban League. Speaker of the hour was Mr. Ray Nunn, Executive Producer of "Growing up Black in America" and an ABC newscaster. In his speech, he cited Brother King's honesty, strength of character and belief in America's greatness rooted in its promise of racial equality. He also emphasized the importance of reaching out in every possible way to our youth, who are our future.

The Project Alpha Committee, under Brother Glenn Stephens, has held its first program of the year for teenage black males. This was Conducted with 32 youth present at the Summit County Children Services Board on Arlington Street in East Akron on February 3rd. The youth participated in four life topic discusPage 44

Eta Tau Lambda Hosts a Range of Service Projects —^—-^————-^^»» sion groups led by eleven chapter brothers. Each youth was treated to a hot lunch and also received an Alpha T-Shirt. The next program will be held in a different part of the city sometime during the next quarter.

Our busy Social Committee led by Brother Paul Winters, is finalizing plans for the Annual Spring Dance to be held the 3rd Saturday in May at the University Club. Brother Winters says a full slate of fun events are planned and the emphasis will be on casual dress. Anyone showing up in a suit and tie will not be allowed in.

It's that time of the year for convention planning and in that regard, Brother President Othello Skinner, along with Brothers Glenn Stephens, Kirk Parker, Charles Walker, Innocent Okolo and Jimmie Thomas attended the State Convention in Columbus, Ohio in February. While there, they set up this Chapter's display items for Chapter of the Year judging. For their efforts, they were awarded first place and this means Eta Tau Lambda was eligible to compete in the Regional Midwestern Convention in April.

The Police Community Dialogue Program, under Brother Charles Walker, is planning for its Annual Youth Recognition Dinner to be held at the Prince of Peace Church on Thursday, May 10th, with Brother William Lewis, III as speaker. The brothers are urged to attend this worthy program to both support and render homage to those youth striving to better themselves.

The lifeline of any organization is its ability to generate a steady flow of new people. Within the past year, this Chapter has been very successful in doing just that; for in addition to the four new neophytes just brought into the chapter; nine other graduate brothers have transferred in from other chapters. These are Brothers Patrick E Bartee; Michael L. Dority; Leon Hudson, Jr.; Keith A. Fisher; Stan Hampton; William Lewis, III; Virgil Sensabaugh, Jr.; W. Ken Starks, II and James Crutchfield. Brothers: take note, meet, greet and welcome them with an Alpha salute at the next meeting.

The brothers of this chapter are constantly pursuing ways to demonstrate their willingness to be "Servants of All". Brother Dr. Ronald P. Brown, Assistant Dean, Kent State University, Ashtabula, Ohio campus, was the featured speaker on Martin Luther King Day at West Junior High School in Ashtabula. His topic was "The Impact of Martin Luther King, Jr." and touched on the highlights of Brother King's career. Brother Brown said it was a very moving experience talking about Dr. King and feeling his audience response. Another brother who is demonstrating his reponse to the Alpha call is Brother Reverend Leonard Nichols, Chapter Chaplain, who was recently appointed by the Ohio State Board of Health, as Consultant on A.I.D.S. Brother Nichols has quietly but steadily earned a high level of respect around the City of Akron and throughout the State of Ohio for his competence and knowledge on how to help people cope with America's latest and most severe scourge disease. Brothers, let us salute those brothers who have and still are responding to the call - First of All; Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All."

-8/// Lindsey

LEWIS UNIVERSITY A "Nil" Beginning for Nu Epsilon The Brothers of Nu Epsilon Chapter at Lewis University, Lockport, Illinois, send warm greetings to all Brothers throughout Alpha land and urge all to hold up the light for inspiration.

The officers for the 1989-90 fraternal year began their term in office this past August and are as follows: Brothers Darwin Jackson, President; Juan Bucio, Vice President; Tony Brown, Secretary; Travis Smith, Treasurer and Dean of Pledges; Selma Watson, Assistant Dean of Pledges and Timothy Powell Finch, Associate Editor-to-The Sphinx. The new President, Brother Darwin Jackson has vowed to promote the chapter theme of "Advancing Scholarship and Building Character".

There are a total of six brothers on the campus of Lewis University. The Line of the "Disasterous Sixx" was born on the seventh day in April of 1988. Under the guidence of Brothers The Sphinx/Summer 1990

James Mitchel, Dean of Pledges and Kevin Hines, Assistant Dean of Pledges, Nu Epsilon is off to a new beginning.

True in our motto of "First of All, Servants of All", the Brothers of Nu Epsilon participated in a "Meals on Wheels" program, which involved taking hot lunches to unable senior citizens. The Brothers were also involved in a clothing drive for a local deprived church.

Activities for the 1989-90 fraternal year began with the recognition of our Fraternity's Founders Day Celebration. Coordinated by Brother Timothy Powell Finch, a "week" of activities were held as follows: Monday, Nu Epsilon held an "Education Day", by which tapes on motivation and Project Alpha were shown to students; Tuesday, a successful Bake Sale was held; Wednesday, the Brothers collected clothes for the homeless and donated them to a local charity house; Thursday the Brothers put on a very handsome fashion show for their ' fellow students; Friday, the Brothers held a social for the students which provided music and refreshments; Saturday, the "Disasterous Sixx" threw down in a very entertaining Step Show and Sunday, a Founders Day banquet was held in r e m e m b r a n c e of our F o u n d i n g Fathers. The banquet was small in numbers but big in spirit. All Brothers attending expressed openly what Alpha means to them over a lovelv prepared dinner.

â&#x20AC;˘

"Meals on Wheels" is one Nu Epsilon Project In January the chapter paid tribute to one of our most distinguished brothers, Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Brothers Darwin Jackson, President of the University's Black Student Union and Travis Smith, President of the Pan- Hellenic Council, addressed students, faculty and guests on the accomplishments of Brother King.

Under the guidance of Alumni and Chapter founding fathers, Brothers Greg Spinks, Robert Watkins and undergraduate advisor Cothan Pack, Nu Epsilon is clearly on its way to carrying out the ideals of our dear fraternity.

-Timothy

Powell Finch

The Sphinx/Summer 1990

The Alpha Haute in minefield. West Virginia, home to Alpha Zeta Lambda Chapter, toas placed on the National Register of Historic Placet in January 1990. Constructed in 1908, the chapter purchased the house in 1962. Brother C. Anderson Dai'is, Editor-in-Chief, produced the 50th Anniversary Issue of The Sphinx from this venue.

BLUEFIELD, WVA Alpha House Obtains Historic Designation After numerous landmark achievements, the brothers of Alpha Zeta Lambda Chapter now can truly call their home a landmark. Their house, which lies among the rolling hills of southern West Virginia, on the northside of the city of Bluefield, was included in January on the National Register of Historic Places. It is the first home in Bluefield to receive such a designation.

Brother Adolphus Young Jr., West Virginia's state director and AZA chapter secretary, proudly made the announcement at the March chapter meeting. The house lies near the center of 16 acres of land. It was purchased in 1962 by the AZA Housing Foundation at a cost of $11,000.

Because of its location in the thenNegro section of the community, the $85,000 home and accompanying land was acquired at a bargain price.

Brother Dr. Peyton R. Higginbotham, who will be celebrating his 70th anniversary in Alpha (Beta 1920), is current president of the Housing Foundation.

The house was dedicated in September 1963 when former General President Brother Bedford V. Lawson gave an address at the ceremonies.

In the early years the house was the official home of The Sphinx and operations for the West Virginia NAACP. From 1962 to 1965 Brother C. Anderson Davis served ably as both Editorin-Chief of the Sphinx and was State President of the NAACP. The Alpha House became the hub of Greek activity and the local civil rights movement. When Brother Edward "Duke" Ellington - who was initiated through AZA in 1955 - gave his last concert here in 1966, a breakfast was held at the house in his honor the next day (December 13, 1966). It was here that many brothers from Beta Theta Chapter at Bluefield State College, Xi Theta at Concord College, Alpha Zeta at West Virginia State College and Theta Iota at neighboring Virginia Polytechnic Institute were initiated into the fraternity.

The much sought recognition was spearheaded by chapter president, Brother Dr. Marvin W. Rogers, who was initiated into AZA in 1983. He was assisted by Brother Donald Ross.

Rogers took care of acquiring the necessary information and filling out the proper forms, while Ross met with officials from the West Virginia Department of Culture and History and took them on a tour of the prestigious facility.

For those brothers who are unfamiliar with the former "Home of the Sphinx," here's a little background. The house was constructed in 1908. It has 12 rooms and eight Page 45

fireplaces throughout its four levels.

There is a private driveway and the bedrooms have plaques of dedication for chapter brothers of years gone by.

It was from here also that the historic Golden Anniversary Edition of The Sphinx was published in 1964. Today, because of the cost of maintaining so large a structure and due to a decline in use, many repairs are now needed. Through placement on the National Register, the house now qualifies for various federal grants for renovations and repairs. Most of these, though, are matching grants and part of the money must be raised by the owners. Still, the future is bright as the chapter has been working to reactivate Beta Theta and Xi Theta chapters. Brothers are encouraged to let the brothers in the Bluefield area know when they might be visiting so that they can see the facility which is bringing more pride to Alpha and restoring pride in West Virginia.

-Donald Ross

PONTIAC, Ml The Fifth Alpha Phi Alpha Scholarship Banquet The Iota Rho Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, sponsored their Fifth Annual Scholarship Banquet, Friday, April 6, 1990 at 7:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. in the Roma Hall Banquet facility of Bloomfield Hills. Entertainment was provided by Jimmie McKee and Company. The three distinct purposes of the Annual Banquet are as follows: (1) to present local role models; (2) to memorialize deceased brothers; and, (3) to present scholarships to promising students.

Role models are chosen annually from various professions. The first year, the chosen profession was the legal field. The attorneys proposed as role models were Milton Henry and Elbert Hatchett. The second year, the chosen profession was the medical field, with Roy V. Cooley, William E. Hill, Harry L. Riggs, and Henry L. Jenkins as proposed role models. The third year, the chosen profession was the education field, and the educators proposed as role models were Ernest L. Russell and Archibald Mosley.

And the fourth year, morticians were chosen as role models, and the proPage 46

posed persons were Melvin Cobb and O'Neil D. Swanson.

Entrepreneurs were chosen this year as role models, and the proposed entrepreneurs are Frank A. Baker, Lou Murray, Andrew Pettress, Robert Taylor, William Picard, and Harvey Gates. The program is designed for the family, so your children may see, hear and learn how others traveled the road to achievement.

The second purpose of the Annual Banquet is to memorialize deceased Brothers who have left a legacy for others. The first three Annual Banquets memorialized Thomas Gracey, who served successfully as Pontiac's first black Assistant Police Chief. His achievement created an opportunity for the hiring of a successive Black Police Chief. The Gracey legacy is an invaluable legacy that proves Pontiac youths can achieve self-actualization.

The p r e v i o u s A n n u a l Banquet memorialized Brother William Orville Ross, a n d the Banquet this year addressed his life achievements again. He was a trained and qualified entrepreneur, who owned and operated a very profitable business. Here was a local Brother achieving success in business, and Pontiac youths must be encouraged and shown that they can do the same.

The third purpose of the Annual Banquet is to present scholarships to promising students capable of making contributions to the community.

The first two scholarships were awarded in June 1986 to Roderyck Black, who enrolled at Yale University; and to Margaret Billings, who enrolled at the University of Dayton.

The second year, scholarships were awarded to Royalla Nelson, who enrolled at Oakland University; and to Darlene Petway, who enrolled at Howard University. The third year, s c h o l a r s h i p s w e r e a w a r d e d to Rayfus W. Jones, Jr., who enrolled at Michigan State University; and to Jordan Lee Warren, who enrolled at Lawrence Institute of Technology.

The fourth year, scholarships were awarded to Rayfus W. Jones, Jr., who enrolled at Michigan State University; and to Jordan Lee Warren, who enrolled at Lawrence Institute of Technology. The fourth year, scholarships were awarded to Darrin Woods, who enrolled at Harvard University; and to Anthony Mullen, who enrolled at a University in Florida.

Two scholarships are awaiting two very deserving students again this

year. If you know any such promising persons, please have them apply with the Pontiac Iota Rho Lambda Chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

FAYETTEVILLE, NC Epsilon Rho Lambda Assists Flood Victims The Brothers of Epsilon Rho Lambda send greetings to all Brothers throughout the land of Alpha. This year has been and continues to be exciting and productive in the true spirit of Alpha under the leadership of Chapter President Brother Robert Owens. As a result of a successful project to "reclaim" inactive Brothers in the previous fraternal year, Epsilon Rho Lambda began its 1989-90 fraternal year with a significant increase in membership and attendance at chapter meetings. The project to reclaim "inactive" Brothers was spearheaded by Brother J. V. Parham and culminated with a Black and Gold Ball in April 1989 with over 400 Brothers and guests attending.

After a brief summer hiatus, the fall of 1989 brought a new challenge to the Brothers of Epsilon Rho Lambda. The October 15 edition of the Fayetteville Observer stated it very succinctly, "Neediest Get Little Aid for Flood Losses". A month earlier, flash floods caused $10 million dollars in damages with 150 homes and businesses being affected in a predominately Black community in the city of Fayetteville. The city was made eligible for low interest loans from the Small Business Administration but not declared a national disaster area which would have made grants available to the victims. Unfortunately, most of the victims could not meet the income requirements to qualify for loans, so ironically, the program was of the least help to those with the most need. When this situation was brought to the attention of the Chapter by Brother LawerThe Sphinx/Summer 1990

ence Johnson, who was involved in the rescue and recovery efforts, the Chapter stood true to the Alpha motto of "First of All, Servants of All" by deciding to adopt the Colden Campbell family who were victims of the flood. For the Campbell family, the flood meant the loss of or damage to all their belongings. In the immediate aftermath of the flood, thev did not even have heat for their home, and since they were renters the Campbell family did not have available to them any assistance in trying to rebuild their lives. With the chapter's donation of $250, Mrs. Campbell was able to purchase a space heater and some basic necessities to provide them some comfort in trying to cope with their losses.

On December 3rd Epsilon Rho Lambda observed the 83rd Founder's Day in a joint program with Epsilon Zeta. The observance began with a Sunday morning worship service at the John E. Wesley United Methodist Church with Brother Lawerence Johnson delivering the morning message. The celebration continued in the evening on the campus of Fayetteville State University with program featuring Brother D. Hector McEachem. Brother McEachern is the Director of Personnel at Wachovia Bank and Trust Company, in Winston Salem, North Carolina.

In a paraphrase of Charles Dickens, Brother McEachern stated that this was the best of times and the worst of times for Black people. Brother McEachern stated "For as Black people, we have achieved more than ever before, but there are also more Black in poverty than ever before . . . more Black on Black crime . . . more teenage pregnancies." In order to resolve these problems Brother McEachern stated that "the world needs you awake, confident and helping . . . not complacent and complaining." The program also included musical selections from Monikue China and Michael Marshall, two students from the Cumberland County schools.

In addition, the Brothers of Epsilon Rho Lambda honored three Alphamen with certificates of appreciation.

Brothers William Bell, Rudolph Jones and D. Hector McEachern were cited for their significant and unselfish contribution in promoting the cause of Alpha. However, the evening would not have been complete without the Alpha Ensemble's rousing The Sphinx/Summer 1990

Almv: Beta I h'lta I amMa Corresponding Secretary folm I.. I luger (I) and Brother and Mrs. Earl McCrary III (Treasurer) at the Black 6 Gold Hull. Behnv: Chapter President and Mrs. AS Williams (I) lake a break with Bali Chairman and Mrs. Ralph Solomon.

rendition of the 'Twelve Days of Christmas". The program was concluded with the playing of all greek melodies and then the singing ot the Alpha Hymn.

The Brothers of Epsilon Rho Lambda wish everyone a successful 1990.

-Bobby C. Wi/im

DAYTONA BEACH, FL An Energetic Program For Beta Delta Lambda Brother Alfred Williams was installed as President of Beta Delta Lambda in May of 1988 and took office in September. Brother Williams embarked on a very energetic program which encompassed our four major projects (Founders Day Pro-

gram, Citizenship Education/Leadership Development Workshop, Annual Black and Cold Ball and Scholarship Awards), and support of a scout troop, tutoring and baskets at Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Our speaker for the Founders Day Program was Brother Patrick F Bartee, winner of the Belford Lawson Oratorical (the national contest held annually at the National Convention) contest in 1988. Brother Bartee is a member of Delta Beta Chapter at Bethune-Cookman College. He gave an outstanding address on "The African American Male Vanishing Species". Brother Ralph Solomon chaired the program.

In February, Brother i,cnc Motley developed and chaired an outstanding Citizenship Education/Leadership Development Workshop. Brother Motley had speakers from the FAA, Education, Social Services and Beta Page 47

Delta Lambda Brothers. Approximately 40 high school students from local high schools attended. The workshop was held on BethuneCookman campus and afforded the voung people a chance to see a college. They were taken on a tour of the college.

The Black and Gold Ball was a huge success. We filled the Ballroom erf the new Marriott Hotel on the oceanfront in Daytona Beach. Brother Ralph Solomon chaired this affair and is to be commended for a jobwell-done. The Alphabettes decorated the Ballroom and had it looking great. Proceeds from the Ball are used tor our scholarship program.

We awarded two scholarships in lune, 1989, and plan to award three in 1990.

Brother James Huger (Brother Huger was our Fraternity's first Executive Page 48

Secretary), Community Development Director, Daytona Beach, established a Unity and Sharing Project along with the Greek Letter organizations last Thanksgiving to issue baskets to low and moderate income families in our area. Beta Delta Lambda participated in this project.

1988-1989 was a busy year, however, Beta Delta Lambda plans to do more during 1989-1990.

-Roland M. Bnmm

NASHVILLE, TN

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Tau Lambda's Commitment To Excellence Greetings and salutations to the brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha from your brothers at the Tau Lambda chapter located in the heart of Nashville, Ten-

nessee. On December 8, 1989 Tau Lambda welcomed new brothers who were initiated and inducted into Alphadom. Brother Robert Belton, professor of Law-Vanderbilt Law School, Brother John Claybrooks, representative - Nationwide Insurance Company, Brother Odell Horton, Jr., assistant attorney general - office of the State Attorney General, Brother Jimmy Larkin, architect - Larkin Group, Brother Denny Marshall, mortgage loan representative - First Federal Savings Bank of Tennessee, Brother Vincent Sessoms, production operator - Bridgestone Tire, USA, Brother Karl Pulley, assistant district attorney general - Office of the District Attorney General, and Brother James Pulley of Pulley's Graphic Centre crossed the Alpha line.

After welcoming the eight new members Tau Lambda added its support to the Council of Community Service and RIF (Reading Is Fundamental) by participating in the "Book 'Em" project. The project's goal was to collect 20,000 new books for distribution to school age children to encourage reading. Tau Lambda brothers Charles B. Henderson, Derrick W. Dowell, Bernard McCree, Bernard Turner, and Keith A. Young offered their time and assistance by collecting and wrapping the books during their two hour period. The brothers worked with the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity of Middle Tennessee State University. Ann Holt, TV anchor for the ABC affiliate in Nashville and her family were spokespersons for the project.

Continuing its support to educational excellence, Tau Lambda sponsored an Education Foundation Luncheon.

The luncheon was held as a benefit to raise money for the United Negro College Fund, Meharry Medical College, American Baptist College, community concern programs as well as funding for two scholarships for high school graduates, male or female from the metro schools. The December luncheon raised over $3,000.

"Each One Must Teach One" was the theme for Tau Lambda's Black History Observance. The celebration was held at historic First Baptist Church, Capitol Hill on Sunday, February 25, 1990. The focus for the evening addressed the need to promote more vigorously the history of African-American culture; to measure present conduct by this history, and to instill self-awareness and selfThe Sphinx/Summer 1990

pride in black youths. The Reverend Dr. Wallace Smith, pastor of First Baptist, Capitol Hill delivered the resounding address to hundreds of observers from the community who also enjoyed an exhibition of works by local black artists. The celebration was further enhanced by the majestic . voices of the Allegro Chorus of i. Greater Bethel A.M.E. Church and . the Princely Players. Profound interpretative readings were rendered by Miss Nyasha Justice and Haydee Searcy, students in metro magnet schools. The Alpha Phi Alpha brotherhood extended the philoso1 phy of its ongoing program to emphasize in the Nashville community the concept of each one helping those in the community who need to learn for survival's sake.

As strength and unity continues to grow with Tau Lambda, the chapter also recognized the need for permanent housing. On April 4th the brothers closed on its new home located at 1216 Ashton Avenue in Nashville. The brothers are proud of their new residence and invites the warmth and spirit of all brothers!

On the campus of historic Fisk University the chapter's March meeting was held. The culminating element at the meeting was State Representative Lois DeBerry (D) Memphis, Speaker Pro Tern of the Tennessee House of Representatives as the guest speaker. Rep. DeBerry is one of many such speakers who has been invited by Tau Lambda to speak before the Brotherhood on various issues of political, economic and social importance this year. Tau Lambda was very fortunate to have this highest ranking African-American member of the Tennessee legislature address the membership.

Rep. DeBerry's speech centered on the topic "Man in the Mirror" during which she urged the Fraternity to continue to view itself as a catalyst for change and to realize that the impetus for change has to start with the man in the mirror. Rep. DeBerry indicated that the struggle for civil, political and economic rights for our people is a continuing one and stated that victory depended on the individual and collective resource of the Brotherhood. As evidence of the continuing struggle, Rep. DeBerry pointed to the recent drop in the number of college graduates, the rising rate of the homeless, the disproportionate number of AIDS cases affecting AfriThe Sphinx/Summer 1990

Beta Nu Lambda Chapter, Charlotte, North Carolina, in conjunction with the March of Dimes, conducted its Second Annual Project Alpha Seminar during 1989 at Johnson C. Smith University.

can-Americans and other minorities, the devastation caused by the sale and use of drugs in our communities, and the staggering number of African-American males who constitute a disproportionate percentage of the prison population. Rep. DeBerry attributed these social conditions to the contempt and lack of compassion that this nation has demonstrated toward the members of its minority community, but indicated that we must, in the final analysis, take the destiny of African-Americans in our own hands.

On the issue of self-determination, the guest speaker concluded by urging the Fraternity to continue to remain in the forefront of addressing and eradicating conditions which cause harm and detriment to our communities. She said if the Fraternity continued to view itself as the "Man in the Mirror" and to show its commitment to moving the struggle of our people to the next level, she was confident that victory would be certain. The standing ovation extended to Rep. DeBerry was a true testament to the fact that we, the Brothers of Tau Lambda, certainly do agree and will do our part in continuing the struggle.

"Alpha's Paradise - A Classic Extraordinaire" was the fanfare at this

year's Yellow Rose Ball. Presented with the flair and style only the brothers at Tau Lambda could produce, the event was held at the S t o p fer's Hotel in downtown Nashville.

The formal evening attracted over 1,000 guests who enjoyed the versatile musical talents led by Mr. Ben Kirk, assistant director of music at Tennessee State University. His band mesmerized the guests with sounds ranging from the big band era to contemporary soul.

In closing, the brothers clearly exemplify the dedication to cultural enrichment, education advancement, and high standards and distinctions of truly being Alpha men!

CHARLOTTE, NC Project Alpha in Charlotte Beta Nu Lambda Chapter in Charlotte, North Carolina last year conducted its Second Annual Project Alpha Seminar. Total attendance exceeded 85 males. The Seminar was held on the campus of Johnson C. Smith University.

A multifaceted approach was used which included presentations from Page 49

The Annual Christmas Party for the Alphabettes was held at the beautiful home of Brother Demetrice Lyles. The house was decorated in a grand manner for the Christmas season.

The officers for 1989-90 are: Miles Robinson, President; John Robinson, Vice President; E. M. Miller, Secretary; Robert Lawson, Associate Editor-to-The Sphinx; Willie Bray, Historian; James Upshaw, Dean of Pledges; Charles Phillips, Sergeant-at-Arms; Aubrey Ford, Educational Director; Milton Davis, Parliamentarian.

-Robert E. Lawson

COLUMBIA, SC Omicron Iota Lambda On The Move!!

Alpha Nu Lambda honors (from left) Brother Ollie Williamson, Alpha Man of the Year; Brother E. M. Miller, Distinguished Service Award; ami, Mr. Liston Burns, Distinguished Service Award. At far right is Chapter President Miles Robinson.

Health Experts, a Lawyer, and a Minister. Our main speaker was phenomenal. Gil McGregor (radio voice of the NBA Charlotte Hornets team) gave a compelling address to the kids. The message; stay in school, avoid teenage pregnancy, and absolutely no drugs. He left each young man with the idea that they were important and could determine their own levels of success.

Brothers led small group sessions designed to inspire goal setting and critical thinking amount the youth.

Print and broadcast media coverage capped off a great event for our Fraternity.

-Larry

D. Logan

TUSKEGEE, AL Alpha Nu Lambda Sponsors Scholarship Dance The Brothers of Alpha Nu Lambda extend heartfelt greetings to all Brothers throughout Alpha Land. We urge all of you to continue to serve as models for black males in your respective communities. President Miles Robinson hit the ground running as soon as he returned from the 1989 National Convention. The program for the year was planned according to the dictates of the convention. The membership is now involved in executing these plans.

Page 50

The outreach committee assembled a number of boxes of food and delivered them to needy families for Thanksgiving. In December, the committee members took several senior citizens on a food shopping tour and allowed them to purchase food items for Christmas.

The chapter sponsored its Annual Founders Day Program on December 10, 1989. Mr. George Clay, a member of the Alabama House of Representatives, was the guest speaker. He delivered a very inspirational address thai outlined how Alpha men as well as other Greek letter organizations can help the black youth of our communities.

The Distinguished Citizen Award was presented to Mr. Liston Burns, who has served as a Scout Master for one scout troop for 35 years. The Alpha Man of the Year Award was presented to Brother Dr. Ollie Williamson, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Tuskegee University, for his services to the fraternity as well as his participation in community and church activities. Brother E. M. Miller was presented the Distinguished Service Award for serving as the Chapter secretary for more than 20 years.

The chapter is sponsoring a Scholarship Dance in May that should net about $2,000.00. Two scholarships will be given to two graduating seniors from the Macon County Schools.

Warmest greetings are hereby extended to all brothers in Alphadom from the brothers of Omicron Iota Lambda Chapter in the capital city of Columbia, South Carolina. We are proud to say that we have held high the shining light of Alpha throughout our three and a half years experience.

Officers for the 1989-90 fraternal year are as follows: Brothers Ralph Johnson, President; Rodney D. Robinson, Vice President; Harold M. Hamilton, Corresponding Secretary; Jesse Bellinger, Recording Secretary; Phillip Johnson, Financial Secretary; Ronnie Adams, Historian; Leroy Gadsden, Parliamentarian; Willis Bentley, IV, Dean of Pledges; Arthur L. Pinckney, Associate Editor-to-The Sphinx; John Green, Director of Education; Bennie Wilson, Chaplain; and Phillip Johnson, Sergeant-at-Arms.

Brothers in Omicron Iota Lambda Chapter have experienced considerable success in the achievement of our goals during the past years. Thus, we are all eager to continue to excel as we progress onward and upward.

Members of our chapter have diligently volunteered their services to the Greater Columbia Assault on Illiteracy Program (AOIP). These volunteers meet with students from schools within Richland County School District Number One twice a month to assist in preparation for the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) and the Basic Skills Assessment Program (BSAP).

Since its inception, the Omicron Iota Lambda Chapter has had three successful pledge classes. The first line was held in the Fall of 1987. The The Sphinx/Summer 1990

line was called "Genesis" and three ambitious men crossed the burning sands and saw the light of Alpha Phi Alpha. They were Maurice Snipe, Arthur L. Pinckney, and Rosvelt Martain. The second line, "Nexus", was held in the Summer of 1988 and four pledgees were initiated. The members of this class included Dedrick Moulton, John Brown, Jesse Bellinger, and Charlton Whipple. Finally, our third pledge line was called "The Gamma Line". And, on February 25, 1990, Joseph Thomas, Anthony Green, Teddy Hart, Hercules Prince, and Leon Spencer were initiated into the Fraternity.

In the area of educational activities, our chapter in 1989 organized an Oratorical Contest to challenge the minds of our youths. With the support from the school's administrators and staff, parents, and students, we have held two successful contests â&#x20AC;&#x201D; February 1989 and 1990.

Moreover, our chapter has also sponsored two Fellowship Breakfasts. Brothers from the surrounding Alpha chapters (Undergraduate and Alumni) in the Columbia area were invited and had the opportunity to fraternize and become better acquainted with each other.

Our chapter sponsored its first Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 5K Run/2K Fun Walk on January 13, 1990. The event was a great success. There were 70 walkers and runners that participated. Moreover, we raised $1,000 from the event which all proceeds were awarded to the South Carolina Fire Marshall's Association to assist with enhancing the safety of low income housing. We pledge to continue this program throughout the coming years in hopes that it will benefit some charitable organization.

Among other things, our chapter has been actively involved with seeking o u t inactive b r o t h e r s a n d encouraging them to reactivate with the National Fraternity and to join our chapter. Once names of inactive brothers are presented to the chapter, the President sends the brother a letter inviting him to the next meeting.

In keeping with the tradition of "Love for all Mankind," Omicron Iota Lambda was bestowed the honor of receiving an award for community service.

The Columbia Urban League, Inc. recognized the chapter for the things we have done to improve the quality of life for others in the Columbia area.

The Sphinx/Summer 1990

The Brothers of Alpha Upsilon Lambda Chapter in Montgomery, Alabama are shown at the s of the national civil rights memorial in that city. The monument honors those who tape their lives in the struggle against segregation.

Chartered in 1986, our chapter is at the threshold of greatness in the Columbia and surrounding communities. We have a short history, yet an aggressive vision. We have formulated an active plan and propelled forward with ever increasing insistency. Thus, we aspire to nothing short of the excellence on which this organization pivots.

In closing, Omicron Iota Lambda is striving upon the words of the great, late Brother, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., "If we could help somebody as we pass along, then our living shall not be in vain."

-Arthur L. Pinckney

MONTGOMERY, AL Montgomery Chapters Celebrate Founders' Day The Brothers of Alpha Upsilon Lambda, Beta Upsilon, and Omicron Alpha Chapters of Montgomery, Alabama observed Founders' Day on Sunday, December 3, 1989, at Alabama State University. Keynote speaker was Brother Paul B. Mohr, Sr., Senior Advisor for Academic and Minority Affairs, The Alabama Commission on Higher Education.

Acknowledging the Fraternity's national theme "Alpha Phi Alpha's

Role into the 21st Century," Brother Mohr cited education as always being the hallmark of the Fraternity.

He said starting with the Fraternity's initial themes of "What are the Possibilities of the College Man?" and "What does College Life Mean?", the Fraternity has evolved through three periods of educational consciousness. He said the second evolution took place in the 1920's with the "Go to High School, Go to College" program which encouraged Black youth to remain in school. He identified the third evolution as the Fraternity's "Education for Citizenship" program of the 1930's which encouraged Brothers to become more civic-minded.

Brother Mohr said Alpha Phi Alpha's role into the 21st Century is to continue being society's servant by perpetuating education and being society's critic of injustice.

Musical selections were provided by Alpha Upsilon Lambda's Alphaires and neophyte Brothers Sige Burden, Clarence Mann, Clarence Noble, Eddie Tolbert, and Alvin Tuck. Special recognition was given to Brother Felix E. James, Sr. for 50 years of service to the Fraternity and to Brother David F. Winston, Sr. for 25 years of service. Brothers Albert E. Fews and Rufus A. Lewis were also given a special salute for being charter members of Alpha Upsilon Lambda chapter. Brother John L. VarPage 51

nado was recognized for being selected Alpha Man of the Year by the Alabama State Association. Also, Alpha Upsilon Lambda's immediate past president, Brother Willie J. Anderson, was honored for his outstanding leadership of the chapter for the past two years.

Steering the program was Brother Jethro Wilson, current president of the Alpha Upsilon Lambda chapter.

This very special Founders' Day program was followed by a reception for the Brothers and their ladies.

-Lytle E. Alien 111

ORLANDO, FL

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Drum Major Awards Commemorate Dr. King's Life On January 26, 1990, Brothers of Delta Xi Lambda Chapter, Orlando, Florida, held their Fourth Annual Observance of the Birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with their Drum Major Awards Luncheon. Held at O r l a n d o ' s O m n i I n t e r n a t i o n a l Hotel, outstanding citizens were presented awards for their accomplishments in the areas of scholarship, business, community service, civic affairs, and social justice.

The speaker for the occasion was Major General Titus C. Hall, USAF (Retired) who is a brother and who currently is Chairman of TC Hall And Associates and Starsat 112,000 Inc. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; A program designed to raise targeted students' SAT scores. He gave a relevant, revealing and inspirational address for the occasion.

At the January meeting, brothers of the chapter hosted a visit of Florida State Director John C. Rawls, w h o was accompanied by State Treasurer Brother Adrian Allen. Brother Rawls offered sage advice and guidance to the brothers of Delta Xi Lambda for their planning of the 1990 Fall Florida District Conference, which the chapter will host. Brother Cleyroy Campbell is chairman of the conference committee.

Among new brothers affiliating with the chapter at the January meeting were Brother Robert Myers, from Kappa Epsilon Lambda Chapter, Prince George County, MD, who has served as Sergeant-at-Arms for the General Conventions for many years, and has been appointed by Brother John R. Kelley as Sergeant-at-Arms Page 52

Major General Titus C. Hall, USAF (Ret.), was the keynote speaker for the 4th Annual Drum Major Awards Luncheon, the Kin$ Holiday observance in Orlando, Florida.

for the Southern Region; and Brother Henry Roberts, from Delta Beta Chapter, Bethune Cookman College, Daytona Beach, Florida.

As a token of their love and esteem, and as Valentine's Day mementoes, the Orlando Chapter of the Alphabettes resolved in February to present their loved ones of Delta Xi Lambda with gifts of wrist watches with an Alpha insignia affixed thereon.

Brother Leonard Ingram currently serves as President of the Delta Xi Lambda Chapter.

-Samuel

L. Hoard

Etiowa Obot, Senior Medical Student, Greg Kay, School Teacher, Herum Edwards, Probation Officer, Gerald Garrett, Commissioner Board of Pardons and Paroles, and Danny Watkins, Engineer. The new Brothers have shown a desire to roll up their sleeves and go to work, a characteristic observed during their probation.

Actually, the team work and support they showed for each other inspired the entire Fraternity to take on some of our old challenges with more fervor. We began the 1989-1990 fraternal year with an outstanding Smoker and Rededication program in September. Several inactive Brothers were so moved by the inspirational program that they pledged their personal and financial recommitment to the Fraternity.

The enthusiasm continued on through our Founders' Day Program, Christmas Raffle, and our Pre-Super Bowl Party, the biggest fundraiser of the year. Actually, our Pre-Super Bowl Planning Committee was composed mostly of the new Brothers.

The affair was the most successful ever. As a matter of fact, all of projects have had the most involvement from Brothers anyone could remember in years. So to our new Brothers "The Magnificent Seven", we welcome you and know that each of you will have many productive years in Alphadom."

SHREVEPOKT, LA

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Delta Upsilon Lambda Hosts District Meeting

GALVESTON, TX Gamma Pi Lambda Welcomes the "Magnificent Seven" The Brothers of Gamma Pi Lambda are still trying to find words that describe the seven young men recently initiated into our Chapter.

Their backgrounds and vocations are as varied as the many talents they bring to the Fraternity. They are George Shannon, Store Manager, Vernon Johnson, Senior Medical Student,

The Delta Upsilon Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. awarded the "Alpha Man of the Year" plaque in its annual Founder's Day Services held at the Zion Baptist Church in Shreveport, LA. This year's recipient was Brother Chris Gabriel, President of the local chapter and an independent agent of Allstate Insurance Company. Presenting the award was Brother Charles Neal, Chairman of the Founder's Day Celebration.

The Louisiana District meeting of Alpha Phi Alpha convened in Shreveport, LA. The conference was hosted

by Delta Upsilon Lambda Chapter.

The state conference was the largest held in the state with over 161 brothers registered. Brother Joseph The Sphinx/Summer 1990

Byrd, President of the Louisiana District, congratulated Brother Harold Hunt, Chairman of the District Conference for the chapter, for a job well done. Brother Adrian Wallace, Southwestern Regional Vice-President was also in attendance.

LITTLE ROCK, AR A Dynamic Pi Lambda Leads and Serves The Brothers of Pi Lambda Chapter of Little Rock, Arkansas would like to extend greetings to all the Brothers of the House of Alpha. Pi Lambda was founded on March 3, 1926. From its very early existence, Pi Lambda has supported voter registration, "Go to High School; Go to Col-

lege," and many other fraternal programs. As we enter a new decade, Pi Lambda will continue to lead as others will follow. Pi Lambda is currently under the leadership of Brother Herbert Scott, our creative and energetic President.

Over a period of 17 years, Pi Lambda has donated over $35,000 to NAACP, Urban League of Arkansas, United Negro College Fund, YMCA and Sickle Cell Anemia.

Pi Lambda is a life member of the NAACP and currently leases property to the NAACP in which the state headquarters is located.

Pi Lambda is proud to boast the fact that former General President Ozell Sutton was initiated into the chapter in 1951.

On December 10, 1989, Pi Lambda celebrated Founder's Day by attending morning worship service at St. Mark Baptist Church in Little Rock, Arkansas and with an afternoon program at Bethel A.M.E. Church in North Little Rock, Arkansas. The afternoon program featured Brother Dr. Jerry Jewell. Brother Jewell is Arkansas' only Black State Senator.

The Brotherhood then awarded Brother Herbert Scott, our illustrious President, with the coveted 1989 Pi Lambda Alphaman of the Year Award.

Brother Scott earned this honor because of his local, state, regional, and national involvement with the fraternity. The chairman of our Founder's Day program was Brother Charlie Reed.

On December 29, 1989 at the State House Convention Center, Pi Lambda The Sphinx/Summer 1990

Delta Upsilon Lambda President Chris Gabriel, left, receives the Chapter's "Alpha Man of the Year" award from Founder's Dai/ Chairman Charles Neal. Below: Louisiana District Director â&#x20AC;˘clor Joseph Byrd (left) congratulates Brother Harold Hunt (center) for his outstanding service as Chairman of the District Conference recently held in Shreveport. Southwestern Vice President Adrian Wallace, right, echoes the sentiment.

He Pi Lambda Chapter House, in Little Rock, Arkansas is a valuable community resource, housing the state headquarters of the NAACP and offering tutorial programs to local youth.

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presented its 39th Annual Debutante Ball. Thirty-five young ladies made their debut into society at this gala black-tie affair. This event is the largest formal social event in the state of Arkansas. The General Debutante Ball Chairman was Brother Jerry Powers, who again for the second consecutive year performed a splendid job. Mrs. Yana Scott served as chairwoman for the Alphabettes.

Pi Lambda, with its diverse membership, set up a speakers bureau to act as role models in elementary and junior high schools throughout the Greater Little Rock area.

Pi Lambda brought in the New Year by hosting the 1st Annual Community Friendship Breakfast attended by matriarchs of the local community.

We at Pi Lambda try to represent through our daily activities and the implementation of our social programs, the aims of manly deeds, scholarship, and love for all mankind. Pi Lambda truly lives by the Fraternal motto: First of All, Servants of All and Transcending All and will continue to hold the light of Alpha high by moving onward and upward toward the light . . . Until next issue . . . PWK

TUCSON, AZ Eta Psi Lambda Promotes Academic Achievement The Brothers of Eta Psi Lambda extend fraternal greetings to all the Brothers throughout Alphadom. The Chapter has consistently upheld the Alpha tradition of "First of All".

Brother Steven Freeman, past President and Brother Charles Todd, present President, have kept the chapter on course in its efforts to enhance the Alpha image within the community.

The chapter has one major fund raiser annually. The 1989-90 fund raiser was "A Night at the Tuscon Greyhound Race Track". Over 100 Page 54

Brothers, families and guests enjoyed the excellent barbeque dinner and wagering on the dogs. It was a successful affair.

Eta Psi Lambda is mounting an aggressive Reclamation Program. The chapter was chartered in March 1962; of the 12 Charter members there are still 5 residing in Tucson. A number of brothers from all over the country are relocating in Tucson and the chapter wants to get them back on active roles.

Brother Johnnie Zander, one of the charter members, entered the Omega Chapter in 1989. At the request of his widow, Mrs. Jessie Zander, the chapter held the January 1990 meeting at the Zander home and dedicated the 1990 chapter programs to his memory.

The 11th Annual Symposium "Go to High School; Go to College" for Black Seniors, Juniors and Sophomores of the High Schools of greater Tucson was held in February. This symposium covered not only motivation techniques, but involved University of Arizona and Pima Community College officials who started graduating seniors in the fall 1990 registration procedures. There were 112 students in attendance, many parents, community leaders and college and university students. Brothers Henry Ryan and Ralph Fowler were Co-Chairmen.

Eta Psi Lambda is one of the smallest graduate chapters in the fraternity. However, the chapter had the first member, Brother Felix L. Goodwin, in Alpha to contribute $5,100.00 to the National Headquarters Building Fund Drive.

The Chapter held its 17th Annual High School Awards Luncheon at the University of Arizona in April. The luncheon honors all graduating Black male High School seniors with a 3.0 or better grade point average. Fifteen seniors were honored at the affair.

The students, parents, siblings, school administrators, counselors and community leaders were invited to participate as guests of the chapter.

Brothers Richard Davis, Ranier Collins and Ralph Fowler coordinated the activities of the luncheon.

Eta Psi Lambda in conjunction with the Jack & Jill Club of Tucson hosts Beautillion biannually. It is named "Men of Tomorrow". The young men are selected from local high schools, Pima Community College and the University of Arizona.

Plans are being formulated for the 1990 Beautillion. Brother Richard Davis is the Chapter Chairman., Brother Steven Freeman, ArizonaNevada Area Director and Brother Felix Goodwin attended the ArizonaNevada Spirit Conference held in Las Vegas in February. Attendees were present from Arizona and Nevada.

The brothers also attended the Western Regional Convention in April at San Jose, California.

The 1989-90 chapter officers are: President, Charles Todd; Vice President, Ranier Collins; Recording Secretary, Tyrone Copeland; Corresponding Secretary, Richard Davis; Treasurer, Ralph Fowler; Dean of Pledges, Steven Freeman; Director of Education, Clyde Phillips and Editor-to-The Sphinx, Felix L. Goodwin.

The Sphinx/Summer 1990

Omega Chapter ARRINGTON, Robyn J. (Dr.)

DURDEN,James W.

Brother Robyn J. Arlington, a Detroit physician specializing in obstetrics and gynecology for nearly 50 years, entered Omega Chapter in December 1989. He was an honors graduate of Storer College in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia and West Virginia State College and graduated cum laude from Meharry Medical College in 1939. He began his Detroit practice in 1942 and forged an exemplary medical career. Brother Arrington was also an active civic and cultural support in the Detroit community.

He is survived by his wife, two sons, a daughter and several other relatives and friends.

Brother James W. Durden entered Omega Chapter on January 21, 1990 in Leesburg, Florida. He was an attorney and assistant public defender in Lake County, a member of St. Paul AME Church and the Lake and Sumter County, Florida and National Bar Associations.

t't BENJAMIN, T. Garrott (Sr.) Brother T. Garrott Benjamin, Sr. entered Omega Chapter in March 1990 at the age of 90. He had previously been a dentist in St. Louis for 50 years, retiring in 1975. He subsequently resided in Indianapolis, Indiana, where he was a member of the church pastored by his son, Brother (Dr.) T. Garrott Benjamin, Jr. Brother Benjamin Sr. graduated from Talladega College and Meharry Medical College.

BENNETT, Noah Harold Jr. Brother Noah H. Bennett, Jr. entered Omega Chapter on March 28, 1990 at Duke Hospital in Durham, North Carolina.

Brother Bennett was a graduate of Florida A & M University.

He was a high school teacher for three years before joining the Afro-American Insurance Company in Jacksonville, Florida. In 1941 he joined the North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance C o m p a n y , w h e r e he became a m e m b e r of the Board of Directors and retired in 1977 as Senior Vice President, Chief Actuary.

Brother Bennett was active with the John Avery Boys Club and was a recipient of the Boys Club of America Bronze Keystone Award for Distinguished Service. He served as Scoutmaster for Troop 137 of St. Joseph's AME Church and was a member of the regional executive committee of the Occoneeche Council; member of the national council of the Boy Scouts of America and received Scouting's Silver Beaver Award.

He was a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha and the NAACP. Brother Bennett is survived by his wife, Mrs. Alam Wynns Bennett; one daughter, Dr. Noma B. Anderson; three sisters and one grand-daughter.

tft COOK, Simon A. Brother Simon Alfred Cook, a charter member of Epsilon Iota Lambda Chapter in Suffolk, Virginia, entered Omega Chapter on January 13, 1990. A native of Bennettsville, SC, Brother Cook had retired from the U. S. Postal Service. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, a son and three sisters.

t* The Sphinx/Summer 1990

DURRANT, Randolph Allan Brother R a n d o l p h Allan Durrant, distinguished pharmacist, scholar, d e d i c a t e d community worker, staunch advocate of NAACP, proud father and family man shall be remembered for his kindness, leadership, and loyalty.

Allan was born March 12, 1903 in G o u y a v e , in t h e Parish of St. John's, Grenada, West Indies. He was the son of R a n d o l p h A l l a n a n d Beatrice D u r r a n t . A l l a n ' s family relocated in Panama in 1913. In 1925 they settled in Philadelphia. Allan became a Citizen of the United States of America on September 19, 1936. On Sunday, January 28, 1990, he ended his earthly pilgrimage. He will live on in the hearts and minds of his family, friends, and a host of persons whose lives were touched by his care, guidance, and example.

In 1934, he married Adelaide Banks and they had two sons, Allan and Regan. She pre-deceased him, having been married for over 50 years. Although his physical health had not been good in recent years, Allan was fortunate to marry Mary Irwin in 1985 and was able to enjoy his final years in a loving, caring environment.

Allan a t t e n d e d Lincoln Preparatory School and Temple University School of Pharmacy. Upon graduation in 1932, he received the Dr. Henry Fisher Gold Medal for Meteria Medica, the Temple Pharmaceutical Society Gold Medal for the Society member with the highest scholastic standing, the Alpha Zeta Omega Gold Medal for the second highest average in all branches, Honorable Mention for the John R. Minehart Gold Medal for the second highest average in senior year, and Honorable Mention for the Dr. James C. Attix Prize for the second highest average in Chemistry.

He was a devoted member of St. Simon's Episcopal Church, and later transferred to Calvary Episcopal Church. Besides maintaining a full schedule professionally and fraternally, he served as Accounting Warden and Vestryman for nine years.

For his Outstanding Service to the Church, he was awarded a Plaque and made Vestryman Emeritus of Calvary Episcopal Church in June of 1989. Also, Allan had the distinction of being the First Negro to serve on the Executive Council, Diocese- of Pennsylvania. Through his instrumentality, he won for women in Calvary Church, the right to vote in Vestry Election.

Allan was a practicing pharmacist from 1932 to 1980. After getting his degree, he worked seven years for Aikens Drug Store. Then, he owned and operated his own Drug Store from

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1939 to 1959 in West Philadelphia and was highly regarded by the entire neighborhood. It was indeed their loss when he was forced to close the Drug Store due to redevelopment. After his retirement, he became staff pharmacist for Giuffre Medical Center from 1975 to 1980.

He was an active member of The Philadelphia Seminar. I le enjoyed the intellectual stimulation and growth that was offered by the noted guest speakers at their meetings. Allan enjoyed a good discussion.

He was accepted into membership of the Viri Viginti Club of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in April, 1960. In January, 1969, he was installed as President and served in that office until September, 1980. During his regime, he stimulated the spirit of camaraderie by proposing a Sweetheart's Party; he initiated the remembrance of members' birthdays and anniversary dates by cards sent to each. Also, their history records that Allan's Presidency seems to have fostered the resurgence of the old spirit, the joy of being together. The members are indebted to him for forging the bridge between the spirit of the founding fathers and the broadening influence of today's membership.

Allan (Life Member #73) was initiated into Rho Chapter, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on May 14, 1934. During his fifty years plus, he served as Secretary and President of Rho Chapter, Regional and National Chairman of the Rules and Credentials Committee, various C o n v e n t i o n s Committee Chairman and Regional Sage. His wisdom, wit, and knowledge often kept the brotherhood at awe. On reflection, his concept of the Founding Jewels' Philosophy is as follows: "You must come prepared to take your place in your community, your city, and your nation. You must excel in whatever field of endeavor you are involved in. You must be proud of your achievements and pass something on as a heritage for those ivho follow. You must compete on an equal basis and be judged by a single standard; and, on the way up the ladder of success, you must take someone up with you."

Allan's life was full of spirit and generosity shared with all that got to know him.

Gates Taylor and the late Dr. Gwendolyn Gates Hewlett, were born.

Dr. Gates was a consultant and examining dentist in the Public a n d Parochial Schools for 30 years. He served as President of the National Dental Association from 1940-1942.

He also served as secretary of the Executive Board of the National Dental Association. As a member of the OdontoChirurgical Society, Dr. Gates served in all elected offices, and as secretary for 30 years. In 1971, he was very instrumental in the formation of a new dental organization, the New Era Dental Society, a merger of the Odonto-Chirurgical and the William A. Jackson Societies.

He was a life member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Rho Chapter, for over 60 years. He served as secretary for 15 years, as treasurer for 6 years, and as chaplain for 5 years. In 1988, he was honored by the Fraternity as one of two surviving charter members of Rho Chapter.

The Gates' home was a place of refuge and encouragement for many young people. There they participated in many activities, including a teenage orchestra which rehearsed in the basement.

Not only was Dr. Gates active in his church, fraternity, and profession but also in his community. He was the first Black Scout Master of the Boy Scouts of America in Darby, Troop No. 3 and he served as a member of the Troop Committee for 20 years. A founder of the Scholastic All Stars and the Wayside Racquet Club, Dr. Gates was also a charter member of the NAACP in Darby, and served as recording secretary for many years.

Dr. Gates will be remembered by many who say he gave them so much by his spiritual guidance and concern for Christian principles, and his example of Christian living in his family life, church, professional and community service.

He is s u r v i v e d by his d a u g h t e r , Mabel Gates Taylor, granddaughters Maria Hewlett Gittens, Pamela Hewlett Wills, and Patrice Ann Johnson, three great-granddaughters, five great-grandsons, first cousins Frank Saunders and Elaine Carlos, a host of friends and associates.

"Give rest, O'fesus to your servant with your saints"

GATES, Leroy W. R. Brother LeRoy W. R. Gates was born August 21, 1899 in Washington, D.C. and departed this life, January 22, 1990.

Mrs. Mabel P. Jackson, his mother, Mr. Fred W Jackson, his step-father, and he moved to Darby, Pennsylvania in 1908.

His Christian education began at the early age of 8, when he joined the Sunday School at the Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church in Darby and took an active part in all activities. In 1911 at the age of 11, he joined the church and continued his involvement in manv areas.

Dr. Gates served as assistant superintendent of the Sunday School for 21 years. In 1940, he was appointed superintendent of the Sunday School and served with distinction for 39 years.

Under his leadership a Parent-Teacher Association, an active Cradle Roll Department, Graded Sunday School Lessons for teachers and pupils, Homecoming Day, and Memorial Services for deceased Sunday School superintendents and teachers were instituted. Additionally, Dr. Gates served as Area Superintendent of Sunday Schools for 15 years and as Associate Vice President of the Delaware County Sabbath School Association for many years. In 1943 Dr. Gates became a trustee of the Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church, serving actively for 36 years. The then pastor, the Reverend H. Holland Fields, Jr., conferred on him the title, Trustee Emeritus.

Dr. Gates was educated in the public schools of Darby, graduating from Darby High School in 1919. He attended Temple University, graduating from its School of Dentistry in 1925. In 1928, he began his practice in Darby. He retired from active practice in 1985.

While a student in dental school, he met and married the late Mabel Drew Gates. From this union, two daughters, Mabel

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GREENE, Solomon H. Brother Solomon H. Greene was born May 4, 1931 to Mr. and Mrs. Solomon Greene of Tuskegee, Alabama. He was the oldest of five children, two of whom are living, Mrs. Annie Gaskin and Mrs. Josephine Thacker. Two aunts survive to cherish his memory, Maggie Lawton and Rebecca Golden, six sisters-inlaw, seven brothers-in-law, as well as several nieces, nephews and friends.

He attended the public schools of Tuskegee until losing his vision. He s p e n t two years at the School for the Blind, Talladega, Alabama. He finished Tuskegee Institute High School and College with honors on scholarship, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Science. He received a scholarship to attend Howard University on a graduate level where he earned a Master of Arts in Sociology.

In 1968, he began working with the Anniston Army Depot as a Computer Programmer. Later he transferred to Redstone Arsenal as Coordinator for Alcohol and Drug Abuse Awareness.

He was involved in several social organizations including Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Knights of Peter Claver, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, National Federation of the Blind, Transportation Board of Huntsville, Tuskegee Alumni Club, and the Alabama Democratic Party.

Further, he was an active member of St. Joseph's Catholic Community, Huntsville, Alabama, and St. Jude Catholic Church, Montgomery, Alabama.

He married Louise Bland in 1964. To that union two children â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Solomon H., Ill and Sandia Greene â&#x20AC;&#x201D; were born.

He departed this life Friday, January 19, 1990.

The Sphinx/Summer 1990

HANKERSON, Henry E. Brother Henry E. Hankerson was a son, brother, uncle, educator, advisor, innovator, Christian, and friend.

Dr. Hankerson was born in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida on October 14, 1941, the fourth son to Mrs. Willie Pearl and the late James Hankerson, Senior. He was educated in t h e p u b l i c s c h o o l s of Ft. Lauderdale and was a 1959 g r a d u a t e of D i l l a r d Comprehensive High School.

His o t h e r e d u c a t i o n a l training includes: A Bachelor of Science (1963) in Elementary Education from Florida A & M University; an N D E A Teacher Training Certificate (1966), Florida State University; a Master of Education (1969) in Early Childhood Education from the University of Illinois; and a Doctor of Philosophy in Education ( P r o g r a m in C o n t i n u i n g E d u c a t i o n a n d C o m m u n i t y Development - 1972) from the University of Michigan.

Dr. Hankerson began his career as a classroom teacher, in 1964, at the Rock Island Elementary School in Ft. Lauderdale.

While with Broward County Schools, he worked as a Reading Specialists, Teacher Trainer, and GED Tester with the Adult Basic Education Program.

From 1967-1972, he was employed by the Flint Community Schools, Flint Michigan. In Flint Dr. Hankerson was a class room teacher, Reading Specialist, Diagnostic Prescriptive Specialist, Teacher Trainer, and GED Tester with the Adult Basic Education Program. the State Funded Compensatory Education Program - Section 3.

It was while living in Michigan that Dr. Hankerson began his college teaching career. He served as Instructor/Coordinator of the Child Care Associate Program (1972-73) at Charles Stewart Mott Community College, Flint, Michigan. He moved to Ohio State University in 1973 where he was Associate Director, Head Start TAMS (1973-74), and Associate Professor of Early and Middle Childhood Education with additional duties as Project Director of the Developmental Delayed Infant Education Outreach Project (1974-75).

For the past 15 years, Dr. Hankerson's base of operation has been Howard University's School of Education, Department of Curriculum and Teaching. Since 1975, he has been an Associate Professor, Early Childhood Education; from 1977 to 1983, he was Director, Undergraduate Teacher Education; from 1983 to 1988, he was Chairman of the Department of Curriculum and Teaching; and, on August 1, 1986, Dr. Hankerson received his Graduate Associate Professorship appointment., Dr. Hankerson leaves a legacy of hard work. He was a consultant of local, state, and national renown. He provided technical assistance and management systems in curriculum, teaching, program, and materials & development. He was a Consultant for the Maryland State Department of Education, Flint Community Schools, University of North Carolina - TADS Project, Institute for Educational Management, Columbus ( O h i o ) M e t r o p o l i t a n Area C o m m u n i t y Action Agency, Administration for Children, Youth and Families, University of Oregon Extension Project, University of Illinois Extension Project (Behavior Modification).

Of his many awards and honors are: "Outstanding Young Men in America 1978;" First Runner-Up Professor of the Year, 1980-1981" "Professor of the Year, 1980-1981, School of E d u c a t i o n , " O u t s t a n d i n g A l u m n i Award-1985 (FAMU); Indefinate Appointment as "Commissioner" for the National Academy of Early C h i l d h o o d Education Programs; a n d membership on NAEYC's Early Childhood Teacher Education Guidelines Commission.

The S p h i n x / S u m m e r 1990

Dr. Hankerson's Dissertation was titled, "A Study of An Educational Strategy for Community Development: The Role of Para-Professional Corps for Socially Disadvantaged Children," During his career, a listing of his research/publications/papers/ addresses would take n u m e r o u s pages. Highlights of his published works include the booklet, "Understanding Growth and Development in the Three, Four and Five year Old Child" published for Head Start Technical Assistance and Management Systems and the textbook, "Promoting Pre-School Curriculum and Teaching", Wyndham Hall Press, 1987.

With a cheery smile and a helpful hand, he wandered into an unknown land. He slipped away on March 13, 1990. He leaves to mourn his mother, Mrs. Willie Pearl Hankerson; five brothers: James Jr., Johnny, Wesley, Willie James and Harlough; five sisters: Oretha, Rosa, Delores, Ruby, and Joan; four brothers-inlaw: Alonza, Levi, Ned, and James; three sisters-in-law, Delores, Earnestine and Ethel; a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins, and friends; a n d , many followers and s u p p o r t e r s in the education communities in Michigan, Ohio, the District of Columbia, and across the nation. He was preceded in death bv his father, two brothers, and a sister.

"1 have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I Innv kept the faith.II Timothy 4:7

HAWKINS, Darryl A. Brother Darryl A. Hawkins, a 27-year old Marrietta, Georgia dentist, entered Omega Chapter on January 20, 1990. He was a g r a d u a t e of Morehouse College and Fairleigh Dickinson University School of Dentistry, where he was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha. Survivors include his parents, one brother, his grandmother and other relatives and friends.

t't HICKS, Ralph Alexander Brother Ralph Alexander Hicks was born on June 20, 1927, in D a y t o n a Beach, Florida, and entered Omega Chapter on August 11, 1989.

Brother Hicks served in the U.S. Army during World War II and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Morehouse College, a Master's degree in Education from New York University, a n d a M a s t e r ' s in Public H e a l t h from C o l u m b i a University in New York City.

During his professional career he was a Health Educator for the City of New York, Alameda C o u n t v and California Departments of Public Health. His 25 year career with the California State Department of Public Health included positions as: Coordinator of the Tuberculosis Control Program, Assistant Chief of the Bureau of Mental Retardation and Disabilities Services, Assistant Chief of Regional Centers Operations, Assistant Chief of the Developmental Disabilities Program, Assistant Chief for Program Development, Assistant Chief for the Maternal and Child Health Branch, Chief of the Policy and Support Branch for Licensing and Certification, and Chief of the Genetic Education and Counseling Section.

Brother Hicks was the a u t h o r and co-auth or of several publications in various notable Public Health journals. He retired in February 1988 from the position of Special Assistant to the Chief, Division of Laboratories of the California State Department of Public Health.

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Brother Hicks was a member of the American Public Health Association, American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), and he was a financial s u p p o r t e r of the Democratic Party, both nationally and locally. He was a longtime financial contributor to New York and Columbia Universities and was a forty year financial contributor of Morehouse University.

He was Past President of Kappa Omicron Lambda Chapter of Solano Countv, California, and most recently was Chair of the Scholarship Committee for African-American males in the county. He was also Past President of the Vallejo Advocates Social Club and a member of the Board of Directors of North Bay Center for the Developmentally Disabled.

Brother Hicks was a member of the Church by the Side of the Road in Berkeley, California, for over 30 years.

He was married to his devoted wife, Benetta, on August 15, 1971. In addition to his wife, he is survived by three daughters, Patrice Mosely, Vanessa Pilate, Pamela Pilate, and one son, Felton Pilate, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.

The Omega Service for Brother Hicks was held on August 15, 1989, at the Friendship Baptist Church in Vallejo, California.

t*t HOPE, Alvin Kirkley Brother Alvin K. Hope, a retired educator and businessman in Mobile, Alabama, entered Omega Chapter on February 21, 1990. A graduate of Alabama A & M University, he retired from the Mobile County School System in June of 1989 to manage the family-owned construction business, Hope Associates. He is survived bv his wife, one son and one daughter, his parents and a host of relatives and friends.

t* JONES, James Randall Brother James Randall Jones transcended into Omega Chapter Monday night, January 29. Omega services were held Saturday, February 3, 1990.

Brother Jones was born to the late Zola Wiggins Jones and James Monroe Jones, Jr. in Americus, Georgia.

At an early age, he joined Campbell Chapel A.M.E. C h u r c h of A m e r i c u s . T h e family later moved to Atlanta where he attended the public schools and Morehouse College from which he received the Bachelors of Science degree. He then entered Meharry Medical College and received his Doctor of Medicine degree. He did his internship and residency at Fordham Hospital in New York City. He served his country as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force.

He served as College Physician for The Fort Valley State College and was in private practice in Fort Valley for more than 30 years. He was a staff physician at Peach County Hospital where he had also served as Chief of Staff.

He was a member of Saint Peter A.M.E. Church where he served on the Board of Trustees, President of the Cathedral Choir, a member of the A.D. Watson Choir, and the Male Chorus. He was also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the Citizenship Education Commission, the Evening Optimist Club, the Fort Valley State College Community Choir, and the End Zoners Club. He also held a life membership in the

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NAACP, was a member of the National Medical Association, and the Georgia State Medical Association.

His immediate survivors are brothers and sister—Ulysses W. Jones of Camden, New Jersey, Mrs. Zola J. Brown of Atlanta, and Mr. and Mrs. Richard K. Jones (Thelma) of Louisville, Kentucky; an a u n t — M r s . N. Marguerite Butler of Atlanta; nieces—Dr. Mazola H. Brown, Richelle Jones, and Mr. and Mrs. Reginald Nelson (Lorraine); cousins—Dr. Pearlie C. Dove, Mrs. Gwendolyn J. Atkinson, Mrs. Barbara J. Mitchell, Nanella J. Warren, and Robert B. Jones; a host of other relatives and friends.

JONES, Judge I. Brother J u d g e I. J o n e s , a p i o n e e r i n g b u s i n e s s m a n on Chicago's South Side, entered Omega Chapter in December 1989. He attended the University of Kansas, then transferred to and graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Pharmacy. Brother Jones a n d his late brother Chauncey, established the successful Jones & Jones Pharmacies, Inc. at 57th & State Streets in 1924. He was a member of Xi Lambda Chapter in Chicago, St. Mark United Methodist Church and the Cosmopolitan Chamber of Commerce. In 1985, he and his wife moved to Detroit where they resided at the time of his demise.

t* LANE, David Everett Brother David E. Lane, the first African-American to manage a low-income project for the Boston Housing Authority and a charter member of Roxbury's Freedom House, entered Omega Chapter on February 18, 1990 at the age of 91. Brother Lane graduated from Northeastern University in 1925 and received a m a s t e r ' s d e g r e e from Boston U n i v e r s i t y in 1935. After graduating from college, he worked several years as an auditor with the federal government. Following his stint with the housing agency, he established his own public accounting practice in 1955.

He is remembered for his deep commitment to helping bring about social justice. In the 1930's, before Roxbury's Ward 12 was d o m i n a t e d bv A f r i c a n - A m e r i c a n s , B r o t h e r L a n e ran unsucessfully for state representative. He later played a strong role in helping elect Brother Edward W. Brooke to the posts of Massachusetts Attorney General and U. S. Senator.

LISTON, Hugh Hoskins Brother Hugh H. Liston, a former employee of the U. S. Postal Service, St. Louis Housing Authority and the city's Human Development Corporation, entered Omega Chapter on January 12, 1990 in Bethesda, Maryland. After serving with the above agencies, he was appointed Executive Director of Tower Village, Inc., a large convalescent care facility for the elderly. He remained at that post until he retired in 1988. He then moved to Bethesda, Maryland, where his wife is an executive with AT&T.

t*t

T h e S p h i n x / S u m m e r 1990

MALONE, Ralph Patrick Brother Ralph Patrick Malone entered the Omega Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity on Tuesday, April 26, 1989.

Brother Malone, son of the late William and Ruth Glenn Malone, was born on August 18, 1930 in Henderson, North Carolina.

A product of the Durham, North Carolina School System and North Carolina Central University, Ralph enjoyed a l o n g c a r e e r in h i g h e r education. He was a former coach and Registrar at Howard Junior College in Ocala, Florida, and since 1965, he had served as the Director of Career Planning and Placement at the Fort Valley State College. He was also a veteran of the Korean Conflict.

In 1969 Ralph was united in holy matrimony to Sylvia Jones.

To this union two children were born.

Mr. Malone worked untiringly in several organizations. He was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity where he had served as Secretary; he was a member of the End Zoners Club; p a s t P r e s i d e n t of t h e C a r e e r P l a n n i n g a n d P l a c e m e n t Association; Local Chairman of the National Heart Fund; Board Member of the Thomas Public Library and a member of the Peach County Chamber of Commerce.

A man with strong religious convictions, Ralph transferred his membership to St. Luke's Episcopal Church when he came to Fort Valley. There he was a member of the usher board and past Senior Warden and a member of the Vestry.

He leaves to cherish his memories his devoted wife, Sylvia J. Malone; one son, Todd D. Malone of Macon; one daughter, Terri M. Brown, of Gaithersburg, Maryland; one daughter-inlaw, Keela W Malone of Macon; one son-in-law, Adam Brown of Gaithersburg, Maryland; one grandson, Master D'Mistris Brown of Gaithersburg, Maryland; two brothers, William P. Malone of Durham, North Carolina and Thomas E. Malone of Potomac, Maryland; two sisters, Mrs. Edith M. Johnson and Mrs. Ann Kelly of Durham, North Carolina; a mother-in-law, Mrs. Vanisha M. Jones of Farmville, North Carolina, six sistersin-law; five brothers-in-law; 4 nieces; 2 nephews; and a host of loving relatives and caring friends.

collected books pertaining to the African-American experience.

Ralph loved music with jazz being the form he most admired.

His record collection was quite expansive.

Born February 17, 1957 to Delores and Ralph Morton, Sr., Ralph attended Cupples Elementary School and by fifth grade had transferred to the gifted programs at Walnut Park and Wade M i d d l e School. He w a s also in t h e h o n o r s p r o g r a m at Southwest High School.

In the summer of 1975 Ralph entered the University of Missouri at the Columbia campus u n d e r the Project Start P r o g r a m . R a l p h ' s c o l l e g e y e a r s w e r e filled w i t h n e w experiences, friends and hopes of becoming a journalist. Ralph graduated in May, 1979 with a Bachelor of Science degree in journalism. The years in between included joining Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and becoming the Columbia Chapter President. He was also an active member of the Black Greek organizations' Panhellenic Council.

In March of 1980 Ralph began work with Southwestern Bell and later AT&T Corporation. In 1985 Ralph was transferred to Kansas City, Missouri, where he lived until his death. In Kansas City Ralph was active with the local 4-H Club, producing its newsletter; Missouri Lottery Real Winners Program as a freelance writer; and he also wrote a television public service announcement for the local Big Brothers program.

In addition to his work at AT&T, Ralph had his own company, Bohemian Club Productions, a music production and artist management company.

Ralph is survived by his mother Delores, father Ralph, sister Angela, brother-in-law Durant Conley, nephew Durant Vicent, both grandmothers, eight uncles, five aunts, several great aunts and many other relatives and friends.

"Am I the only colored by with a dream?

Certainly not. It is the dream that keeps us alive . . . I wonder if I'll live before 1 die."

Excerpts from work

by Ralph V. Morton March, 1981

t*t NELSON, Robert W. (Dr.) Brother Robert Wales Nelson, M.D., entered Omega Chapter on February 3, 1990 in Los Angeles, California. He was a graduate of Howard University and its School of Medicine and had practiced as a physician and surgeon in the Los Angeles area for over 34 years. He is survived by four daughters, four sisters, a brother and a host of other relatives.

t't

McBRIDE, Richard Brother Richard McBride of Jacksonville, Florida entered Omega Chapter on January 14, 1990. He was employed for 37 years as an auto mechanic instructor for the public schools of Florida and recently retired from Florida Community College at Jacksonville. He was a member of Grant Memorial AME Church, where he was Scoutmaster and a member of the Mass Choir.

He is survived by his wife, daughter, son, 3 grandchildren and other relatives and friends.

t*t MORTON, Ralph Vincent Jr. There is much that can be said about Brother Ralph Vincent Morton, Jr. Many know that he was truly an artist. He took great pleasure in writing and authored many short stories, a novel and several letters. Ralph was also an avid reader and

The Sphinx/Summer 1990

PATTON, Leander R. The life of Brother Leander Raphael Patton was dedicated to public service. Son of the late Leander D. and Lucinda Patton, Dr. Patton was born in Marion, Alabama. He graduated from Lincoln High School in Marion and served four years in the United States Army before receiving his Bachelor of Science degree from Alabama A. and M. College in 1946. He did further study at Tennessee A. and I. State University in Nashville and took courses in financial administration and computer concepts for management, but he never ventured far from his alma mater where he gave nearly forty years of service before retiring in 1985.

Prior to his promotion to Vice President for Business and Finance in 1971, Dr. Patton had served in several positionsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; National Youth Administrator, Veterans Coordinator, Financial Secretary, and Business Manager-Treasurer. At his retirement,

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he listed among his greatest achievements the "direction of the construction of fourteen or more permanent buildings on campus" and the assistance he gave to students who could not pay their tuition when it was d u e . "Perhaps my greatest pleasure," he said, "was believing that I was helping people."

His service to Alabama A. and M. was not limited to students. Through the years he toiled with the State Legislature concerning its appropriations to Alabama A. and M. He served as president of the National Alumni-Normalite Association (NANA) from 1968-1970. When NANA named him Alumnus of the Year in 1976, the State Legislature had already named the L. R. Patton Building in his honor in 1971. Both honors attested to the breadth and quality of his services. Following his retirement, Alabama A. and M. University awarded him an honorary Doctor of Laws degree.

Dr. Patton's services extended into the community. Through the years he enjoyed membership on the Boards of Directors for Christmas Charities, the Council Federal Credit Union and the Huntsville Housing Authority. He was a member of such diverse groups as the Mayor's Advisory Council, the HuntsvilleMadison County Chamber of Commerce, the Governmental Relations Committee and New South Coalition. He served as p r e s i d e n t of t h e N o r t h A l a b a m a C h a p t e r of P u b l i c Administrators and was a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Brother Patton was an active member of First Baptist Church where he was a deacon. He was chairman of the Trustee Board from 1984-1987. He served on the Building and Planning Committee for the construction of the edifice on Blue Spring Road and was a member of the Board of Directors of the Child Development Center at First Baptist Church.

Dr. Patton shared his many achievements with his devoted wife, Mrs. Eliza Pulley Patton.

In addition to his wife, those who share the memory of Dr. Patton's life of service include his brother, Cleophus Patton of Washington, D.C.; his five sisters, Mrs. Levina King of Birmingham, Mrs. Queen Lewis of Detroit, Mrs. Rochester Knight of Mobile> Miss Elsie Patton of Atlanta, and Mrs. Murlean Keith of Birmingham; six brothers-in-law, Thomas Lewis, Blanchard Knight, Allie King, Lawrence Keith, John L. Pulley and Roland A. Pulley, three sisters-in-law, Mrs. Annie Mae Patton of Mobile, Mrs. Dorothy Patton of Washington, D.C. and Mrs. Hilda Patton of Los Angeles; numerous nieces, nephews, godchildren, friends and Alabama A. and M. Alumni and constituents who regarded him with respect and admiration.

REAVES, Joseph L. Brother Joseph L. Reaves, Manager of Market Development for the Philadelphia Gas Works, entered Omega Chapter on March 20, 1990. Brother Reaves joined PGW in 1987 as an assistant to the Vice President for Public Affairs. A year later he was promoted to the position he held at the date of his death.

There, he oversaw the department's staff functions, including market planning, advertising and promotions, training and appliance merchandising. Before going to PGW, Brother Reaves spent 17 years with AT&T, where he started in 1970.

Brother Reaves gained his B. A. degree from St. Joseph's College in 1974. He served in the U. S. Naval Reserve for 10 years. A member of Rho Chapter, Brother Reaves was fundraising chairman for PGW's United Way campaigns and was Financial Secretary for the Philadelphia Chapter of Frontiers International.

Brother Reaves is survived by his wife, Margaret; a son, David; a daughter, Sydney; his parents, Brother and Mrs. James (Vivienne) Reaves; and a brother, Alan Reaves.

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RICHARDS, Joseph Hendrick "There is a time to be born and a time to die," says King Soloman, but there is an interval between these two times which is of infinite importance in defining the life and mission of a person who sojourns on this earth. The coincidence of the dates of the birth and death of Brother Joseph Hedrick Richards extends beyond our human powers of comprehension, but we recognize the hand of God at work in the events and activities, the dreams and hopes of one who lived among us for seventyeight years.

The cycle of the life of Joseph H. Richards which began on June 15, 1911 and ended exactly seventy-eight years to the day on June 15, 1989 in Bessemer, Alabama was the saga of a life that began with a mission and ended with a mission accomplished.

One of the six children of Dave and Amanda Richards, J. H. was born in Bessemer, Alabama and spent his early childhood there with four brothers, all of whom preceded him in death and one sister, Janie.

He came to the "Alabama A. and M. Institute" campus as a teenager in the University Laboratory High School from which he received his high school diploma. He then completed two years of college at A. & M. before transferring to Talladega College and then to Alabama State University from which he g r a d u a t e d with a B. S. d e g r e e . He later matriculated at Columbia University, receiving upon graduation the M. S. degree in Secondary Education (Science) and Secondary Administration. He extended his educational experiences through numerous workshops, institutes, courses, travel and conferences.

In June of 1936, he married Ethel Garner whom he met while they were students at Alabama A. & M. Fifty years later in June, 1986, they renewed their vows in a ceremonial affirmation at the First Missionary Baptist Church which was witnessed by friends and relatives from far and near.

J. H. assumed many roles and won much honor and acclaim for his participation in the life of Huntsville and Madison County. Epsilon Gamma Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., inducted him into its Hall of Fame as an example of one such h o n o r conferred u p o n him for his distinguished service to the community."

He was an Educator: "Prof Richards" was an endearing term used by hundreds, possibly thousands of young people who received educational training under his tutelage either as a classroom teacher, coach or principal during the 45 years of his educational service. He served as principal of William H. Councill High School and as principal of William H. Councill Training School during most of his teaching career. He was a pioneer in the initiation and implementation of a school for Veterans returning from World War II and became one of its first i n s t r u c t o r s . He w a s a m e m b e r of the M a d i s o n C o u n t y Education Association, the Alabama Education Association, the National Education Association and the Retired Teachers' Association on the local, state and national levels.

He was a Christian Brother. When he was only 12 years of age, he joined the Petty's C h a p e l AME Zion C h u r c h of Bessemer, Alabama. In Huntsville, he joined the St. John A.M.E. Church and served faithfully, continuing in spirit and support throughout his illness. He was chairman of the Trustee Board, a member of the Finance Committee and an active participant in the plans and procedures for the construction of the new edifice on Church Street.

He was a Lodge and Fraternity Brother. J. H. rose in the ranks of the Masonic Lodge to that of a 32째 Mason. He was a member of the Sweet Home Lodge, No. 179, R. E. Nelms Lodge, No. 977 and Mack Harris Post 307 of the American Legion. He was a brother in the Delta Theta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. for many years.

He was a Coach. Not only was J. H. a coach, but he was a mentor to many young men and women who played on his T h e S p h i n x / S u m m e r 1990

teams at schools and community organizations throughout the city and county. His athletic involvements obtained for him a membership in the Athletic Boosters Club which inducted him into its "Hall of Fame" in 1977.

He was Businessman. Along with his wife and business partner, Warren Q. Scott, he owned and operated two business establishment in the Northwest Huntsville area for a number of years.

He was a Soldier. J. H. spent four years of active duty (19411945) in the service of his country in the United States Army in World War 11.

He was a Scoutmaster. A pioneer in Scouting for Black boys in Huntsville and Madison County, J. H. worked with the Tennessee Valley Council of Boy Scouts. For this affiliation, he received the Silver Beaver Award, the highest award given in Scouting for distinguished service.

Joseph Hedrick Richards' influence on the lives of people and institutions will long be remembered, for his was indeed a life which demonstrated loyalty to duty, the power to be useful, the sensitivity to appreciate and the heart to love.

His memory will forever be cherished by his devoted wife, Ethel, and his other survivors, one sister, Mrs. Janie Shepherd of Birmingham, Alabama; two nieces, Mrs. Ruby Richards of New York and Mrs. Delia M. Bryant of Montgomery, Alabama; three great n e p h e w s , Father Maurice Shepherd of New Haven, Connecticut, Marshall Richards of New York and Addre Br>. i t , Jr. of Montgomery, Alabama; a great great niece, Alicia Bryant of Montgomery, Alabama; a foster daughter, Mrs. Marie Love Cutwright; two foster grandchildren, Juan and Maria Bartlett and one foster great grandchild, Bianca, all of Huntsville, Alabama.

Dr. James P. Shavers moved to Newport News in 1947, and had practiced dentistry on the Peninsula for the last thirty-four years. Active in his profession, he was a member of the National Dental Association, President of the Old Dominion Dental Association, which awarded him the Virginia Dentist of the Year Award in 1979, and the President's Award in 1982, President of the Norman Lassiter Dental Association, the Virginia Dental Association, and the Peninsula Dental Society.

It is said that a man is as great as the truth he speaks and the help he gives. Dr. Shavers gave his time and energy to his community through his service as Vice-President, District Advisor, and member of the Executive Board of the Peninsula Council of the Boy Scouts of America, member of the Board of the Hampton Roads Boys' Club, member of the Board of Zoning Appeals for the City of Newport News, member of the Board of Mental Hygiene for the City of Newport News, Life Member of the NAACP, and a member of the Trustee Board of Carver Memorial Presbyterian Church.

Jim's wisdom and sense of camaraderie made him a valued member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Zeta Lambda Chapter, the Beta Lambda Boule', Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, the National Association of Guardsmen, Inc., Norfolk Chapter, and the H.M. Club of America.

James P. Shavers had a passionate interest and involvement in the lives of young people. He had a knack for making each person he knew feel that his relationship with them was special. His love and pride in his family was evident in his every expression. The life of each person he touched is more significant because of his influence. This is trulv the measure of a man. Carl Sandburg once said, "A tree is best measured when it is down." A giant tree has fallen in our midst and left his indelible mark in the forest of our memory.

t*t t*t SHAVERS, James Polk SMART, Albert Davis (Dr.) A slow gentle smile A soft-spoken voice A glint in his eye An easy-going Texas style This quiet dignity was'the essence of a gentle man Known to many as "Gentleman Jim".

It is rare that a man leaves an indelible memory with each person whose life he touches. Jim Shavers, who entered Omega Chapter on March 7, 1990, left such a mark on the lives of many - as a husband, father, grandfather, brother, scholar, teacher, soldier, friend, and community leader.

Brother James Polk Shavers was one of eleven children born in De Kalb, Texas to Laura Garland and Robert Stanley Shavers.

His memory is cherished by his wife, Lorraine Finch Shavers; his daughter, Pamela V. Shavers-King; his granddaughter, Mario Finch King; one brother, Col. Iverson E. Shavers of De Kalb, Texas, and five sisters: Mrs. Millie S. Collins of De Kalb, Texas, Mrs. Mattie S. Johnson of Nashville, Tennessee, Mrs. Myrtle S. Downs of Detroit, Michigan, Mrs. Mildred S. Kington of Baltimore, Maryland, and Mrs. Jenna V Benton of De Kalb, Texas, and a host of nieces and nephews.

Jim graduated from Garland High School as valedictorian, earned his B.S. degree from Texas College, and his D.D.S. degree from Meharry Medical College. A firm believer in the value of higher education, he pursued special studies at Hampton Institute, The Sorbonne, France, The University of Di Jon, France, The University of Nance, France, and the University of Heidelberg, Germany.

A decorated veteran of World War II, James Shavers served in the European Theater of Operations as a Captain in the United States Army. As a member of the Army Corps of Engineers, he fought valiantly in the "Battle of the Bulge," and was awarded the prestigious Croix de Guerre for bravery, by the French Government.

T h e S p h i n x / S u m m e r 1990

Brother Albert D. Smart e n t e r e d O m e g a C h a p t e r on December 12, 19S9 in Tallahassee, Florida. He was employed by Northern Illinois University as Professor of Marketing, a post he formerly held at Albany State College. Brother Smart was a 1956 graduate of Tennessee State University. He earned the MBA degree from Atlanta University in 1957 and the Ph.D. from the University of Illinois in 1969.

t*t STEWART, Bennett Michael Brother Bennett M. Stewart, son of the late Congressman (and Brother) Bennett M. Stewart, entered Omega Chapter on February 1, 1990. The younger Brother Stewart was ,\n executive with the Internal Revenue Service before initiating his own business in Tacoma, Washington. His career was short-circuited by a massive stroke, which bound him for a decade prior to his demise. In addition to his mother, Brother Stewart is survived by his daughters, a sister and a brother, and a host of collateral relatives and friends.

t*t STOREY, Richard L. Brother Richard Storey of Chicago Heights, Illinois entered Omega Chapter on March 26, 1990 from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Brother Storey was a student at Western Illinois University in Macomb and a member of Eta Eta Chapter there. He is survived by his mother, Linda; his father, S. L.; and two brothers, Anthony and Ronald.

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BINNS, Silas 0. (Dr.)

TURNER, Daniel Brother Daniel Turner entered Omega Chapter on February 18, 1990 at Muskogee Regional Hospital, Muskogee, Oklahoma.

A native of Franklin, Louisiana, Brother Turner graduated from Xavier University. After joining the U. S. Army Air Corps, he spent the next 20 years assigned to various bases in Germany, Africa and England as well as the U. S. After his last overseas tour, he returned to America where he retired at ClintonSherman Air Force Base in 1963.

Moving to Muskogee, he taught one year at Manual Training School. Then he began a second career with the State of Oklahoma. He began at Taft State Hospital; the other positions he held included Business Manager and Superintendent of Oklahoma Children's Center and administrator for Tulsa DHS for the last seven vears prior to his retirement in December 1984. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Evelyn, a daughter, Diane R. Williams and other relatives and friends.

t+t WRIGHT, Willis L. (Dr.) Brother Willis L. Wright, a resident of Selma, Alabama, entered Omega Chapter on February 13, 1990. Brother Wright earned the B. S. degree from Alabama State College, the M. S. degree from New York University and the Ph.D. from Michigan State University. After teaching in Alabama, he served as Professor of Education and Chairman of the Department of Secondary Education at Southern University. He further served as President of Concordia College in Alabama.

A 1940 Gamma Chapter initiate and member of Zeta Lambda Chapter, Newport News, Virginia, Brother Binns entered Omega Chapter in June of 1987.

FLOYD, Hugh Alvin Brother Floyd, a member of Zeta Lambda Chapter, was initiated into Epsilon Alpha Chapter in 1957. He entered Omega Chapter in February of 1988.

HARRIS, Nelson Arthur Brother Nelson A. Harris entered Omega Chapter on February 11, 1990. He owned Nelson Harris & Associates Architectural Firm in Chicago and Youngstown, Ohio and was nationally known for designing and specializing in building churches and apartment complexes.

JORDAN, Daniel L. A 1953 initiate of Zeta Lambda Chapter who was still affiliated with that Chapter, Brother Jordan (Life Member #4063) entered Omega Chapter in January of 1988.

THOMAS, Joseph G., Sr. Brother Thomas, the retired head of science for the Baltimore Public Schools, entered Omega Chapter in January 1990.

WINSTEAD, John S. Brother Winstead, a member of Zeta Lambda Chapter, entered Omega Chapter in August of 1988. He was a 1958 initiate of Zeta Lambda.

t*t

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OMEGA CHAPTER NOTICES ANDREWS, Barry B. Brother Andrews was a member of Omicron Alpha Chapter at Auburn University-Montgomery in Montgomery, Alabama.

TRANSFERS TO

Omega Chapter All chapters and Brothers are urged to submit the names of Brothers transferred to Omega Chapter during the past year - so that proper tribute may be offered at the General Convention. .SS#.

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Chapter of Initiation T h e S p h i n x / S u m m e r 1990

1991

ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. General Office P.O. Box 53147

Chicago, IL 60653-9998

DIRECTORY OF CHAPTER OFFICERS

(312) 373-1819

NOTICE- Each chapter is required to complete this form, annually, and to submit same to the General Office, as per Article IV, Sections 5.1, 5.2 and 5.4 ' of the CONSTITUTION & BY-LAWS of ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC.

FILING DEADLINES: College Chapters - By May 10, 1990 / Alumni Chapters - By June 10, 1990 DATE_

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90 AND FNDING THE OFFICERS LISTED BELOW SHALL SERVE A TERM BEGINNING IMPORTANT: Please indicate the two (2) officers who are to receive official correspondence for the chapter by checking the box at right.

PRESIDENT: VICE PRESIDENT: SECRETARY: TREASURER: CHAPLAIN: HISTORIAN: DEAN OF PLEDGES: COORDINATOR - NHBF: ASSOCIATE EDITOR OF "THE SPHINX": DIRECTOR OF EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES:

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OFFICER:

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Henry.A Callis, M.I).

Charles H. Chapman

Eugene Kinckle Jones

George B. Kelley

Nathaniel A. Murray

Robert II. Ogle

Vertner W. Tandy

GENERAL OFFICERS GENERAL PRESIDENT - Henry Ponder, Office of the President, Fisk University, Nashville, TN 37208-3051 IMMEDIATE PAST GENERAL PRESIDENT - Charles C. Teamer, Sr., 4619 Owens Boulevard. New Orleans, LA 70122 EXECUTIVE SECRETARY - J a m e s B. Blanton, III, P.O. Box 53147, Chicago, IL 60653-9998 GENERAL TREASURER - J a m e s M. Trent, 4523 Woodgate Way, Mitchellville, Ml) 20715 COMPTROLLER - Louis W. Buck, 12712 Norwood Lane, Ft. Washington, MD 20744 GENERAL COUNSEL - Julian W. Blackshear, Jr., 208 3rd Avenue, North (5th Floor), Nashville, TN 37201 DIRECTOR-GENERAL CONVENTIONS - W. Mingo Clark, 2026 Winchester Rd.. Huntsville, AL 35810 VICE PRESIDENTS EASTERN - Warren A. Scott, 23 Spectrum Drive, Newark, DE 19713 MIDWESTERN - Halloway C. Sells, 2330 Victory Parkwav. Suite 804, Cincinnati, OH 45206 SOUTHERN - John R. Kelly, 40 Barbara Drive, Gulfport, MS 39503 SOUTHWESTERN - Adrian L. Wallace, Rt. 13 - Box 372, Lake Charles, LA 70611 WESTERN - G. Bernard Brown, 5932 Condon Avenue, Los Angeles. CA 90056 ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENTS EASTERN - Albert E. Lucas, P.O. Box 4342 - Yale Station, New Haven, CT 06520 MIDWESTERN - Michael S. Wotorson, 2621 East 30th, Kansas City. MO 64128 SOUTHERN - Samuel H. Howard, II, 1425 Blair Bridge Rd. - Apt. 320, Austell, GA 30001 SOUTHWESTERN - Robert G. Rudolph, Jr., HSU Box 7601, 1100 Henderson St., Arkadelphia, AK 71923 WESTERN - Kenneth M. Wynn, 10636 Woodley - Apt. 74, Granada Hills, CA 91344

Alpha Phi Alpha Education Foundation, Inc. Huel Perkins, Cliiiiniitui 1923 79th Avenue Baton Rouge, LA 70807 J a m e s B. Blanton, III, Seen tun J a m e s M. Trent, Treasurer Julian W. Blackshear. Jr., Counsel Jim Dave Wilson Roland W. Wesley Clarence Christian Raymond C a r r e a t h e r s John W. German Henry Ponder, Ex Officio

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. GENERAL OFFICE P. O. Box 5 3 1 4 7 Chicago, IL 6 0 6 5 3 - 9 9 9 8 Telephone: (312) 373-1819 James B. Blanton, III, Executive SecretaryMichael J. Price â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Assistant Executive Secretary Editor-in-Chief, The Sphinx Darryl R. Matthews, Sr., Director-Marketing/Membership

Alpha Phi Alpha Building Foundation, Inc. David H. Wagner, Jr., Chairman 1225 East 5th Street Winston-Salem, NC 27101 J a m e s B. Blanton, III, Secretary J a m e s M. Trent, Treasurer Julian W. Blackshear, Jr., Counsel Albert Holland Allen F. Killings Robert E. Simmons J a m e s E. Gilleylen Herbert Marshall Henry Ponder, Ex Officio

NATIONAL COMMITTEE / COMMISSION CHAIRMEN AWARDS Friink Gilbert B23 Rocky Way Drive Florence, SC 2950!

CONSTITUTION Kniniett VV. Bashful 5808 l.af,ive Street New Orleans, I.A "0122

LIFE MEMBERSHIP Robert A. Willis 3604 Revere Road. SW Atlanta. GA 30331

PUBLIC POLICY George A. Hendrix P. 0. Box 4074 Portland, OR 97208

RULES AND CREDENTIALS Tophas Anderson. Ill 15222 Ridgewell Drive Houston. TX 77002

BUDGET AND FINANCE Joe N. Norman 3720 Whilheld Road Winston-Salem NC 27105

ELECTIONS Joe C. Thomas 787 Carsten Circle Ifcmcia. CA 94SB

PUBLICATIONS William E. Nelson. Jr. 2572 Burnabv I Irive Columbus, OH 43209

SENIOR ALPHA AFFAIRS Wavne C. Chandler 2913 Northeast 18th Oklahoma City. OK 73111

BUSINESS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Percy Pollard 8 Monroe Drive Mahwan. NJ 07430

ENDOWMENT AND CAPITAL FORMATION Samuel II. Howard 211HI West End Avenue - Suite 78(1 Nashville. TN 37207,

MEMBERSHIP, STANDARDS AND EXTENSION Napoleon W Moses P. 0. Box 1403- MSI I Mississippi Stale. MS 39702

RACIAL JUSTICE Mill (in C. Davis 304 North Mam Street Tuskcgcc. Al. 30083.1724

SPECIAL PROJECTS TBA

Al E. Richardson 218 Manor Court Pittsburgh. PA 15241

GRIEVANCES AND DISCIPLINE Levan Gordon 900 E. Slocum Street Philadelphia, PA 19150

Ozell Sutton II.In lock l.omand Trail, SW Atlanta, GA 30331

TIME AND PLACE William R. Bennett 3590 Concord Drive Bcachwood. OH 44122

COLLEGE BROTHERS AFFAIRS Norman H. w Towels 3243 Arlington Avenue, Suite 177 Riverside. CA 92506

HISTORICAL COMMISSION Lionel II. Newsom 6345 Bridgeport Drive Charlotte. NC 28215

NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS BUILDING FUND Walter II. Criner, Sr. 9219 Petersham Houston. TX 77031 NATIONAL PROGRAM COMMITTEE l.trov Lowery, Ill 1721 Portal Drive. NW Washington, DC 20012 PERSONNEL Augustus M. Witherspoon 2701 Rothgeb Drive Raleigh. NC 27009

PAST GENERAL PRESIDENTS Moses Melvin Morrison* Roscoe Conkling Giles* Frederick Miller* Charles H. Garvin* Henry Lake Dickason* Henry Arthur Callis* Howard Hale Long*

W. A. Pollard* Daniel IL Fowler* Lucius L. McGee* Simeon S. Booker* Raymond W. Cannon 2008 Virginia Road Los Angeles. CA 90010

B. Andrew Rose*

Charles H. Wesley* Rayford VV. Logan* Belford V. Lawson, Jr.* A. Maceo Smith* Frank L. Stanley, Jr.* Myles A. Paige* William H. Hale*

RECOMMENDATIONS Virgil R. Chandler 4220 Pratt Slreel Omaha. NK 08111

T. Winston Cole, Sr. 124 SW23rd (.ainesville. FL 32607

Lionel H. Newsom

James R. Williams 1733 Brookwood Drive Akron, OH 41313

Ozell Sutton

0:145 Bridgeport Drive Charlotte. NC 28215

1040 Loch Lomond Trail. SW Atlanta, CA 30331

Ernest N. Morial* Walter Washington

Charles C. Teamer, Sr.

Alcorn State University Lornian. MS 39090

4619 Owens Boulevard New Orleans. LA 70122

*OMEGA CHAPTER

Page 64

The Sphinx/Summer 1990

Were dedicated to [â&#x20AC;˘JlV/illTlttilKlliAllI

sensible enjoyment At Anheuser-Busch, we've committed ourselves to brewing only the finest beers for more than one hundred years.

And we've put much of that same zeal into creating OPERATION ALERT: a series of effective programs that help to educate, inform and work for the issues involved in the responsible consumption of all alcoholic beverages.

Beer is to be enjoyed. And with your help, we can keep its consumption safe and sane.

Together we can help America Know When To Say When.

For information contact: Anhtuscr-Busth Companies, Dept. of Industry and Consumer Affairs One Rus,h Place, St. Louis, Missouri o.HI 3.

ANHEUSER-BUSCH COMPANIES

l h e Sphinx U S P S 510-440 4432 S. Dr. M a r t i n L u t h e r King, Jr. Drive C h i c a g o , Illinois 60653

Second Class Postage Paid Chicago, Illinois

POSTMASTER: If this magazine is undelivered please send Form 3579 to The Sphinx, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., 4432 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, Chicago, IL 60653.

Alplm(MDof

Support The National Headquarters Fund Drive!

Greater Miami is a choice vacation spot with year-round tropical weather, miles of sun drenched beaches, cosmopolitan flair and multi cultural diversity. You can combine business with pleasure!

84<h ANNIVERSARY CONVENTION • ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. AUGUST 2-8, 1990 • FONTAINEBLEAL HILTON RESORT & SPA • MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA