Congratulations!
Miss Alpha West Shakira Abney-Wisdom took 2nd Runner-Up at THE 107th Anniversary/92nd General Convention’s Miss Black and Gold Scholarship Pageant. Photo Credit: GreenHigley
MANLY
DEEDS
SPRING/SUMMER EDITION
V O L U M E I V 2 0 1 3 Table of Contents
Message from the District Director....................................................... Pg. 4 Message from the Editor....................................................................... Pg. 6 Message from the Chapter President.................................................... Pg. 7 65th Western Region Convention......................................................... Pg. 9 Public Program Award Recipients...................................................... Pg. 11 107th Anniversary/92nd General Convention.................................... Pg. 20 Miss Alpha West................................................................................. Pg. 24 2013 George E. Haily Scholarship Recipients.................................... Pg. 30 Young Men of Alpha........................................................................... Pg. 32 A Voteless People Is A Hopeless People............................................. Pg. 33 News Around The District.................................................................. Pg. 34 Message from the District Director-Elect........................................... Pg. 35 AND MORE!
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. ® WESTERN REGION-ROCKY MOUNTAIN DISTRICT 5105 S. Argonne Street, Centennial, CO 80015 30383787710 phone rockymo.dd@apa1906.net
Aaron Crutison, Sr. Western Region Vice President
Dr. Jeriod D. Patterson Rocky Mountain District Director
LiQuan M. Hunt Western Region Assistant Vice President
Elton Kirkwood Rocky Mountain Area Director
Farewell My Good Brothers “Right-on Brothers Right-on Right on for A-Phi-A And if I never see ya again I’m gonna sho'nuff remember this day!” As I end my term as your Rocky Mountain District Director, I want to thank all of the Brothers for their Brotherly love and unwavering support. I am honored to have served as your District Director for the last four years. In my role, I fully enjoyed the responsibility of working with all of the chapters in the Rocky Mountain District, but I will particularly miss Iota Omicron Lambda (IOL) chapter meetings and events. The respect that I received from these Brothers was priceless! Every regional initiative that was passed down was fully supported by IOL. Their support of Manly Deeds, Scholarship, and Love for all Mankind is unquestionable. Watching these Brothers work the booth at Air Force football games renewed my faith in Alpha. As I step back and try to understand their dedication to Alpha, I am amazed and honored that we have these types of Brothers in the house of Alpha. I know that they believe that I helped them at the two Air Force football games that I supported, but they are wrong as they helped me see that Brotherly love and hard work leads to successful endeavors. The money that they raise to do the critical work in the community is certainly appreciated. I will miss being intimately involved with IOL. Delta Psi Lambda’s (DPL) support was excellent, and these Brothers aligned themselves with the vision of District and Region. As soon as I was appointed, they stood firmly at my side to ensure that I would be successful. Every idea that I formulated was gated and then supported. Behind the scene, they supported the District with their treasury and unconditional Brotherly love. I could always count of DPL to sustain the District during critical times. I am extremely proud of my chapter as they were stellar during my term. God blessed me with two outstanding Area Directors. Brother Jackson and Brother Kirkwood are two of my closest friends. I am so thankful that I got the opportunity to know them personally. God places people in your life during certain times to ensure that that you do the most with his blessings. They stood with me to ensure that the quality of service from the District was excellent. Having partners with vision and a work ethic helped elevate our District. I appreciated their unwavering love and support. To be a successful District Director, you must have a great working relationship with chapter presidents. During my term, I worked with outstanding chapter presidents who fully supported the District and Region. They pushed their chapter Brothers to be in compliance with all Alpha’s processes and procedures. I was fortunate to be able to work with great leaders. Brother Ron Celestine and Brother Walter Cooper were excellent listeners during my administration. They continue to my “Boys” even though they live in other states. If you ever have questions about Brotherhood, please spend some time with them. Brother Celestine supported the district financially by purchasing Ads and helping Pi Xi Lambda with their /Founders Henry A. Callis
Charles H. Chapman
Eugene K. Jones
George B. Kelley
Nathaniel A. Murray
Robert H. Ogle
Vertner W. Tandy
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. ® WESTERN REGION-ROCKY MOUNTAIN DISTRICT 5105 S. Argonne Street, Centennial, CO 80015 30383787710 phone rockymo.dd@apa1906.net
Aaron Crutison, Sr. Western Region Vice President
Dr. Jeriod D. Patterson Rocky Mountain District Director
LiQuan M. Hunt Western Region Assistant Vice President
Elton Kirkwood Rocky Mountain Area Director
insurance fees. I truly benefited by having past chapter presidents, area director, district director, and VP to evaluate my ideas before I presented them to the Brothers. Of course, I still have Brother Jones who supported me with everything. His professionalism and friendship was very much valued. He is my “ace boon coon.” I love my wife. She was an excellent 1st lady of the Rocky Mountain District. Every year, she provided excellent ladies’ activities during our District Conferences. God is real, and my wife is proof. To have a life partner who is fully supportive of your passion is a true blessing. “I have loved my work. I have loved people and my play, but always I have been uplifted by the thought that what I have done well will live long and justify my life; that what I have done ill or never finished can now be handed on to others for endless days to be finished, perhaps better than I could have done. ~ W.E.B. DuBois”
Fraternally, Brother Dr. Jeriod D. Patterson Rocky Mountain District Director Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. O: 972-477-8029 C: 303-378-7710
/Founders Henry A. Callis
Charles H. Chapman
Eugene K. Jones
George B. Kelley
Nathaniel A. Murray
Robert H. Ogle
Vertner W. Tandy
Brothers of the 211th House of Alpha, I greet you all humbly! For the past 2 years, I have had the privilege of serving as the Associate Editor to the Sphinx. In my role, I wanted to do by best to uphold the office to the best of my ability. In that capacity, it was important that our chapter establish a living documentation of our history. Local and National Programs that our chapter has done for almost 65 years is a remarkable feat, and with the help of my committee, we were successful in publishing 4 Volumes of History!
MESSAGE FROM THE ASSOCIATE EDITOR Manly Deeds Newsletter Committee Bro. Aaron R. Green, Editor Bro. Adrian M. Green Bro. Andre Brooks Bro. Demond Harper, Sr. Bro. Gregory Diggs, Ph.D Bro. Javon Brame Bro. Harry T. Waters
View ALL Four Chapter Newsletters on ISSUU.COM! Search: MANLYDEEDS1949 Winter Edition Vol. I Spring Edition Vol. II Winter Edition Vol. III Spring/Summer Edition Vol. IV
In my opinion, Delta Psi Lambda and the brothers that make up the chapter embody a culture of excellence, brotherhood, and pride in community activism. Since I transitioned into this illustrious alumni chapter, our brand has continued to grow each year. In that same breathe, I must say I have grown as a person, brother and most recently, husband. They say that you are the company you keep. If that is true, I have yet to reach the apex of such great men as Delta Psi Lambda. These men set the standard of not just what it is to be a brother, but what it means to be a man, a family man, a man of God, and men of integrity. As I look back upon the last 4 Volumes of Manly Deeds, I reflect upon the growth and substance we have been able to create, and I hope that it has represented our beloved chapter in the best light. As Alphas, we must continue to push forward. As Alpha Men, we must continue to mentor our black boys. As Alpha Brothers, we must continue to hold each other accountable. As African Americans, we must continue to help each other, continue to serve as the voice to the voiceless, and continue to elevate our community. Fraternally Submitted,
Bro. Aaron R. Green, Editor
What a Year! What an incredible fraternal year that we have been through. My thoughts to you would be incomplete without my personal thanks to you, my Brothers. Let me begin my thanks by acknowledging so many of my Brothers who stood by me during my time of personal need, when my mother passed. It was indeed gratifying to see a small sea of Black and Old Gold supporting me. I especially thank Brothers Charles Gilford, Jeriod Patterson, Steven Jones, Adrian Green, Phillip Heath and my LBs Alex Malone and Deandrea Thomas who were active pallbearers. I also wish to thank Brothers Harry Waters and J. Vaughn-Harris who were the family's honorary pallbearers. You Brothers went above and beyond to honor and support me and my family. Your selflessness will never be forgotten by me or my family. Of course this is the same spirit that I encountered while I was working to enter this esteemed house in 2010 when my Father-in-law passed. This is indeed a passionate house, and indeed "Goodwill is the Monarch of this House". Away from my familial thanks I am so thankful and proud of the work that this chapter did during the 65th Western Region Convention. My brothers were definitely in the house. Your hospitality is now legendary for a convention. I have received nothing but positive comments and email about your work to "fill in the gaps" and to step up where needed. You definetely helped Delta Psi Lambda stand out as a premier chapter here in the Western Region of Alpha. As I reflect on the Western Region Convention, one of the highlights for me came during the address of our 29th General President, Brother Milton C. Davis. As you know Brother Davis is literally "an old school country lawyer". He came to Denver and did what anyone who has the highly distinguished legal mind that has made him known to the world. He put Alpha and Alphas (collectively and individually) on trial as to whether or not we were living up to the aims that we proudly proclaim; Manly Deeds, Scholarship and Love for all Mankind. To put it mildly, "He brought it". During his case he spoke with candor and a reverence for the great work that Alpha has done over the years. However he challenged the actions some of our Brothers. What are some of us doing in the name of Alpha? He questioned how could we have love for all mankind, yet have cases of hazing against us. He asked how could scholarship be one of our aims, yet we have an admission GPA of 2.5. Brother Davis challenged us all to do more in the name of Alpha. He stated that while it is nice to give out $1000.00 scholarships, but why arent we doing more. He spoke further about hazing, and how it belittles the work of Alpha. Finally he challeneged us to live lives that our Jewels would recognize as lives well lived. In closing, he brought the house to its feet when he challenged us to "Leave some evidence, that you were an Alpha". I left that room renewed that the work of Alpha must be measurable and meaningful. On the local level I have been so very pleased with what I have seen in my Brothers work. I have
witnessed camaraderie that has warmed my heart. I saw a Brother that has been renewed in his spirit of Alpha. So much so that he sought help to become financial again, through brotherly support. I witness one of most heartfelt Omega ceremonies for our dear Brother Brett Head. I also witnessed the outpouring of LOVE for our newest Alpha widow Mrs. June Head. I am also touched by the loving-kindness shown in the support for the Western Region Miss Black and Gold, Miss Shakira Abney-Wisdom. Our support along with the talent, grace and scholarship of our Miss Abney-Wisdom will carry her on to a well earned victory. I am also impressed with the quality of woman that our brothers sought out to represent our brotherhood through the Miss Black and Gold process. Miss Abney-Wisdom took an opportunity to be of help with one of our programs. She got an opportunity to interact with our boys in our Young Men of Alpha program. The boys got to hear and learn first hand about how to respect women. Finally, I would like to give you my heartfelt thanks for the opportunity to lead the 211th House of Alpha once again. I recognize that you have options in your leadership. I hope that in re-electing me you have expressed confidence in the path of our chapter. If I have not earned your vote, I ask for your ideas and effort to lead Alpha in a positive direction: Onward and Upward.
Fraternally,
Bro. Claude Harris
Message from the CHAPTER PRESIDENT
PASSPORT TO EXCELLENCE 65th Western Region Convention April 10 - 14, 2013 Denver, CO Host Chapters Delta Psi Lambda - Iota Omicron Lambda - Omicron Tau - Pi Xi Lambda
Pictured: Fall 2012 Initiate Bro. Ben Sanders III (Delta Psi Lambda) is pinned by 34th General President Mark S. Tillman at the 65th Western Region Convention during the Neophyte Pinning Ceremony Hyatt Regency Denver Tech Center
PUBLIC PROGRAM “A PASSPORT TO EXCELLENCE SALUTING OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY LEADERS”
Wednesday, April 10, 2013 Hyatt Regency Denver Tech Center 7:00 p.m. ~ Colorado Media Award Recipients: Jeff “Brother Jeff” Fard Rosalind “Bee” Harris Bertha Lynn TaRhonda Thomas James “Dr. Daddio” Walker James Tucker ~ Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Award of Honor Recipient Mayor Wellington Webb ~ Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Award of Merit Recipient George Hailey
Jeff “Brother Jeff” Fard A native of Northeast Denver, Jeff S. Fard, better known as Brother Jeff, is a multimedia journalist, historian and community organizer who lectures nationally. He speaks to youth, social organizations, and professionals on a variety of topics including; cultural identity, history, diversity, self-empowerment, economic development, health disparities, and the uniting power of art. In 1994 he founded Brother Jeff’s Cultural Center— located in the historic Five Points District in Northeast Denver—a space committed to fostering growth, strength, and voice in the community. He is also the publisher and editor of the award-winning publication, 5 POINTS NEWS. In 2000, Brother Jeff began organizing nationally to help reduce the disproportionate HIV and AIDS rate in the African-American Community. He serves as an advisor to; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and several other governmental and non-governmental organizations committed to eliminating HIV. Brother Jeff currently serves as a board member for the Center for African American Health and is the past Board Chair of the Denver Foundation, the nation’s oldest and Colorado’s largest community foundation. He has received numerous honors for his work including being recognized by the late Steven Graham and the Community Resource Center as a “Legendary Leader of Colorado’s Nonprofit Sector.” He is the father of six, including his twin sons, our fraternity Brothers, Aaron and Adrian Green.
Rosalind “Bee” Harris
Publisher Rosalind Juanita “Bee” Harris was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Bee Harris has attended the Davenport College of Business, the Patricia Stevens Career Schools, and the University of Nebraska at Omaha. In 1980, she relocated to Denver, Colorado with her two sons. From 1980 through the mid 1980 she worked for a number of companies as a graphic artist. In 1987, Harris became the owner, publisher, and art director of the Denver Urban Spectrum, a free monthly paper which covers stories of interest to people of color
and has a distribution of 25,000 in the Denver area. Her work helps connect people through her social network, ConnectMe. In 2000, Harris founded the Urban Spectrum Youth Foundation, a journalism program for youth ages 13 to 17. The Urban Spectrum Youth Foundation is designed to educate and train at-risk middle and high school students in the field of journalism. The foundation focuses on literacy and computer training for youth. The Denver Urban Spectrum and the Urban Spectrum Youth Foundation have received honors in journalism from the Colorado Association of Black Journalists including the Overall Excellence Award. Following Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Harris founded Spectrum of Hope, a nonprofit organization that focuses on displaced citizens in the Denver area. Harris is an engaged member of the Denver community. She is an active member of the Colorado Black Chamber of Commerce, and serves on several boards including the Denver Metro Convention and Visitor’s Bureau.
Bertha Lynn Bertha Lynn, anchorwoman of 7NEWS at 11 a.m., is one of Denver’s most recognized, respected and honored broadcast journalists. Bertha has been bringing the news home to Coloradans for 30 years. Bertha is very active in the Denver community. She currently serves as a trustee for Regis University and is a member of the Denver Art Museum’s African American Outreach Task Force. Bertha has been educated in some of the world finest institutions including the University of Urbino in Urbino, Italy, the Sorbonne in Paris and her alma mater Washington State University. Bertha is an award-winning broadcast journalist, her awards include: National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Heartland Chapter Silver Circle Inductee, Emmy as Host of MetroBeat TV “People to Watch” for Interview/Discussion Program, Emmy Best News Anchor and Emmy Best Morning/Noon News, Colorado Association of Black Journalists President’s Award, CABJ Journalist of the Year for Broadcasting, CABJ Grace Under Fire Award, CABJ Trailblazer Award, CABJ Legacy Award (renamed Bertha Lynn Legacy Award), University of Denver Distinguished Communicator Award, Girl Scouts Mile Hi Council Women’s Leadership Circle Award, Rocky Mountain News and Hyatt Hotels Woman of Distinction, and Knights Of Peter Claver and Women’s Auxiliary Outstanding Community Service Award. Bertha is married to Denver District Court judge Larry Naves. They are the parents of three children.
TaRhonda Thomas TaRhonda Thomas joined the 9NEWS Team in July of 2007, after working as an anchor and reporter for NBC12 in Richmond, Virginia. The Baton Rouge, Louisiana native began her career at KWBJ-TV in Morgan City, Louisiana. She also spent three and a half years at KOAA-TV in Colorado Springs. TaRhonda is a graduate of Louisiana State University, and she enjoys going back to the Pelican State of Louisana as much as possible, to visit her parents. In 2008 The Colorado Association of Black Journalists named her “Broadcast Journalist of the Year.” In 2009 she won her first Emmy award for political reporting. In 2010 she received the Kaiser Permanente “Thrive Award” for excellence in reporting on health disparities facing minorities. And in 2011, she beat out journalists from across the country to win three national awards from the National Association of Black Journalists. She enjoys reading, shopping, exercising and spending time with her husband and three children. Ms. Thomas is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.
Dr. Daddio 760 AM James “Dr. Daddio” Walker, is a Pioneer of Black Radio. He was the first owner of an urban radio station, West of the Mississippi river - “Power 1510 KDKO”. He gave true recognition to the black community for its accomplishments and made the community proud of its heritage. In the 1970s KDKO was a place where a lot of “kids” came down to learn about radio, community service and actually perform public service announcements under the watchful eye of Dr. Daddio. Kids with names like, “Wellington Webb”,” Hiawatha Davis” and, “Cleo Parker Robinson.” Walker’s proudest accomplishment was acquiring KDKO Radio and providing jobs for more than 30 people and allowing them an opportunity to display their talents. He enjoyed the title of owner and was proud to provide a broadcasting service to the community. Mr. Walker was committee member to the Democratic National Committee (DNC), and a member of the DNC’s Rules & Bylaws Committee. In recognition of his service, James Walker has earned numerous community honors and awards. Mr. Walker still finds a way to benefit our community as a powerful voice for the community on 760 AM radio.
Brother James Tucker Born in New Madrid, Missouri James Tucker began his crusade for justice while earning an undergraduate degree in history and political science from Rust College. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the Army, a career commitment that included three years of active service and 17 years in the National Guard. He also earned his, Master’s degree in 1985 from Tuskegee University and received an Honorary Doctorate from Colorado Technical University. He also taught at Harrison High School in Colorado Springs for 23 years. Tucker was instrumental in forming the Colorado Springs annual Juneteenth celebration. His efforts at improving the quality of life in communities of color have been recognized by numerous non-profit organizations such as; Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc., and The El Paso County Ministerial Fellowship. The Colorado House of Representatives presented him with a commendation for outstanding ser-
vice by educating the readers of the African American Voice about issues that impact the community. In May 2007, Tucker received the Vernon E. Jordan Community Leadership Award from the Urban League of the Pikes Peak Region for outstanding leadership. Dr. Tucker is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Mayor Wellington Webb Wellington E. Webb is the first African American Mayor of Denver, Colorado. The Webb family came to Northeast Denver, where he became active in sports as a graduate of the city’s Manual High School. He obtained his B.A. in sociology from Colorado State College at Greeley in 1964 and his M.A. in sociology from the University of Northern Colorado at Greeley in 1971. In 1977, Webb was selected by President Jimmy Carter to serve as regional director of the U.S. Department of Health Education and Welfare. In 1981, Colorado Governor Richard Lamm appointed Webb to his cabinet as executive director of the Department of Regulatory Agencies. In 1987, Webb ran for and was elected Denver city auditor where he served until 1991. Wellington Webb’s 1991 bid for mayor included his “Sneaker Campaign”, in which he walked door to door throughout a majority of Denver, introducing himself as a relatively unknown candidate. He not only won that election, but he served as mayor of Denver for 12 years, from 1991 to 2003. The Wellington E. Webb Municipal Office Building, completed in Fall 2002, was named in honor of Mayor Webb. It houses some forty municipal agencies and divisions from the City and County of Denver, as well as the office of the District Attorney. He is married to Wilma Webb, a prominent member of our community in her own right, and they have four children. Mayor Webb is a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
Brother George Hailey George earned a BS in Vocational Agriculture from Fort Valley State University in Fort Valley, Georgia. While attending Fort Valley State University he worked three jobs on campus, its dairy, farm and dining hall. George’s campus involvement and desire to help others led him to become a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. After graduating from Fort Valley State University, George started his career as an Industrial Arts Teacher at Buena Vista High School, Buena Vista, Ga. One year later he joined the Army and was trained to become Field Radio Repairmen. After three years of military service he was hired by Martin-Marietta Co. as an Electronic Technician.
He was subsequently trained and worked as a data processing programmer. After six years with Martin-Marietta, George was hired by International Business Machine (IBM) Corporation as a data processing programmer. He retired from IBM in 1989 after 23 years, holding positions in programming and management. George is an active Life Member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and a member of Delta Psi Lambda Chapter in Denver, CO. He is the founder and current Board Member Emeritus of the non-profit George E. Hailey Scholarship Endowment Fund. George holds office positions and memberships in other community non-profit organizations, including Scotts United Methodist Church.
Pictured: Brothers with Miss Alpha West during the convention (top). Brother Link and Gater at the Black and Gold Banquet (bottom left). Father and Son Bro(s). Art and Andre Wilson (bottom middle). Rocky Mountain District Director with WVP/GP Crutison, AVP Bro. Hunt and Miss Alpha West (bottom right)
Pictured: Fall 2012 Initiates from Delta Psi Lambda and Omicron Tau with other Fall 2012/Spring 2013 Initiates of the Western Region during the Neophyte Pinning Ceremony at the Convention in Denver, CO
Pictured: Bro(s) Brooks, Harper (DPL) and Malone (IOL) top left. Bro(s) Gater and Shankle witih Bro. Milton C. Davis, the 29th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha (top right). Bro. Miller next to the Alpha Ice Sculpture during the Black and Gold Banquet (bottom).
Pictured: Bro. John Moreland after his Ecumenical speech with District Director Dr. Patterson and Western Region VP and Immediate Past Acting General President Aaron Crutison, Sr. (top left). Twin Bro(s). Aaron and Adrian Green with their father, Jeff Fard during the public program (top right). Soror Alires Almon brings greetings on behalf of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. during the conventions public program.
Photo Credit #repost via #AlphaEast -- Over 2,000 men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. gathered in Austin, TX for the 107th Anniversary/92nd General Convention. Brothers from all over the nation were welcomed by the city of Austin in great style. Although nationals has come and gone we are reminded to keep moving Alpha forward and may the true spirit of fraternity rule our hearts, guide our thoughts, and control our lives so that we may become servants of all. #alphacon #nationals #austin #texas #AlphaWest #AlphaMidWest #AlphaSouth #AlphaSouthWest #AlphaEast #brotherhood #alphaphialpha #1906 LIVE FEED VIA @DENVERALPHAS FACEBOOK PAGE
107th Anniversary/92nd General Convention Austin, TX June 26 - 30, 2013
Despite the 107 degree temperatures it was ICECOLD in Austin, TX June 26-30, 2013 as the brothers from all 5 regions convened for the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated 107th Anniversary Convention/92nd General Convention of our dear fraternity. Austin is known as the Live Music Capital of the World – a diverse and culturally rich city that has a little bit of something for everyone. The brothers of Delta Chapter (Huston-Tillotson University), Epsilon Iota Chapter (University of Texas-Austin), Mu Nu (Texas State University-San Marcos) and Gamma Eta Lambda Chapter showed everyone a good time. As we convened to handle the business of Alpha it was General President Mark S. Tillman’s charge for us to come together and chart a course for what lies ahead, to reinforce the trust with each other, and have success while making an impact. During this convention, we made some historic decisions and moved the house of Alpha forward.
This convention was a great experience and was not just consumed with all work and no fun. This convention also allowed for time for the brothers to enjoy the city and most brothers had an opportunity to enjoy the well-known 6th Street which is the heart of Austin’s live entertainment scene. In addition brothers also attended the Miss Black & Gold Pageant where our own Ms. Alpha West competed, The Hobart Jarrett Debate Competition, Collegiate Scholars Bowl Competition, National Collegiate Step Show where our own General President took us back to the days of his probate show and stole the show with a step that made the crowd go wild. There were also many parties and hospitality receptions hosted by the brotherhood and our corporate partners. The brothers had a great time and we are looking forward to coming together again for our 93rd General Convention in Charlotte, NC in 2015.
Fraternally,
Bro. Stephan Gater
Pictured: Brothers were welcomed at the Austin Hilton, which served as the host hotel for the duration of the 107th Anniversary/92nd General Convention in Austin, TX.
Pictured: Bro(s) Adrian Green, Stephan Gater, Andrew Tingan (IOL), and Ben Sanders III during the convention (top). The Detla Chapter Alpha Plot in Texas (bottom left). Bro. Andre Stott and his wfie enjoying their time together during the convention (bottom right). Photo credit: Bro. Adrian Green/Stephan Gater
Shakira Abney-Wisdom
Photo Credit: GreenHigley
west
MISS ALPHA
As a little girl, I remember dancing in front of the televi-
sion during celebrity performances at award shows, mimicking double axles and the grace of ice skaters, and floating across the living room floor during Miss America pageants. I grew up relatively comfortable in my own skin; my parents encouraged the growth of my natural talents and abilities from the time I was young. Because of their support, I never worried about “not being able;” I only saw possibility in the future. Because of the determination my family—particularly my mother—instilled in me, I have been able to accomplish almost all of my childhood goals and some I never expected. Among those unexpected accomplishments are the successful completion of my Master of Arts degree in a year, getting a position as a teacher of record for Denver Public Schools and becoming both Rocky Mountain District and Western Region Miss Black and Gold. During my undergraduate career, the Miss Black and Gold pageant was a big deal on campus; I was interested, but was unable to pursue the interest. After moving to Denver an opportunity to participate presented itself, so I pursued it. I didn’t know what to expect, but I was certain that I wanted to become Miss Black and Gold; not for the sake of having a title, but so that I could partner with the men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and support the work taking place in Denver, and to be in a position to connect the organizations with which I am associated around a cause that has become so incredibly important to me: the development of children, African American children in particular, into scholars and critical citizens. Winning the title at the local level was an awesome moment, one I was certain to cherish for the rest of my life. So, I was surprised and excited when I learned of my chance to compete at the regional level. Participating in the pageant during the regional convention was surreal; I was able to get a deeper understanding of the scope of Alpha. While, as a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, I understand what it means to be a part of an international organization, it was very inspiring to see how members from all walks of life, and age groups interact, the interconnectedness and love for the Fraternity, and how the Miss Black and Gold pageant was a part of it. The breadth of my perspective and understanding of Alpha expanded yet again when I went on to compete at the national convention. I was able to fully grasp the importance of Miss Black and Gold; she doesn’t represent her chapter or city. Regardless of where she lives, she serves to be the complete embodiment of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. But the impact of Miss Black and Gold is not limited to the pageant
experience; it’s really about the work that happens in the community. Getting to perform community service alongside other regional winners, especially service that supports work around developing self-esteem and a college-bound mindset in young girls, was very humbling. As regional titleholders, we were in a position to inspire young girls to cultivate their talents and go after their dreams, a lesson that is imperative for all young people to understand. Not only is Alpha bigger, but Miss Black and Gold is bigger; the impact on college campuses and in communities. Although I was fortunate to move on to the highest level of competition within the pageant, I was not competing for fun or to be seen; every time I stepped on stage, I thought of my students who discovered I was in a pageant (or, as they say: “You’re a beauty queen”) who didn’t have a strong sense of self love or awareness. When I explained to them how this pageant was different because the focus is on academic accomplishments and civic engagement, not my looks, their level of investment and interest shifted; I do believe they understood the lessons I instill in them are the tenants and principles by which I live. I gave all I could for them because they inspire me to be better every day and deserve someone who will stand in the gap for them. It may seem like a small effort, but I believe that my presence in the Miss Black and Gold pageant system has shed light and brought a level of awareness to the incredible need that exists in our communities to rally in support of our children and making sure they have all that is required for them to be successful. My goal as Miss Alpha West is to make an impact, not just in Denver, but throughout the Western Region. My scholars are my motivation because I know and love them; however, scholars everywhere possess the ability to make an incredible impact on the lives of others and it is our responsibility to equip them with the tools to do so. I believe we all must make manifest the purpose and greatness within to construct a better tomorrow; we do this by initiating transparent conversations, building and maintaining relationships through which we can share the wisdom earned from our life experiences, that others might be able to avoid making the same mistakes we did. Sometimes the best way to pay it forward is to expose the path that leads to success.
Thank You Shakira for representing our region, district and chapter with poise, class and dignity! We are PROUD of you!
Pictured: Miss Alpha West competes in Austin, TX for the National Miss Black and Gold crown where she placed 2nd Runner Up! (Top Left) Photo with 34th General President Mark S. Tillman. Brothers from DPL and others from the Western Region with Miss Alpha West (bottom). Photos courtesty of Bro. Jason Douglass Lewis
Chairing the 2013 district Miss Black and Gold
Scholarship Pageant was a lot of work. The hard work and dedication that all of our contestants, pageant volunteers, and brothers put into it made all the difference and I want to extend a heartfelt thank you. I had never put together a pageant before so it was relatively new territory but in college when I was the president of the Omicron Tau Chapter we held our first pageant and it was a success. Years later in building off of that experience and seeing other chapter and regional pageants the pieces were put together and I leaned on the brotherhood for support. To our district contestants Valencia Hill-Wilson, Marialuisa Burgos, Jazmine Gonzales, and Shakira AbneyWidsom thank you for your commitment to excellence and modeling what dignity, grace, beauty, and poise really means. You are all winners and it was a pleasure being able to get to know you all. At the conclusion of our district pageant, Miss Shakira Abney-Wisdom moved on to our regional pageant and competed for the title of Miss Alpha West, won, and just recently competed for the national Miss Black and Gold title at our 107th Anniversary/92nd General Convention in Austin, TX. Shakira represented the Western Region and our very own Rocky Mountain District taking 2nd Runner Up. Shakira went above and beyond her duty as our Miss Black and Gold. She attended the annual MLK Marade, was present and gave words of wisdom during our Young Men of Alpha mentoring program and has set in place a platform that will leave a lasting impression on our community. Miss Alpha West we salute you and thank you for all that you do. From the beginning of this process last fall to now we appreciate the sacrifices you have made and the determination to a beacon of light for young girls who will remember that Miss Black and Gold is not just a beauty pageant, but a platform and a voice to make a difference. Humbly Submitted,
Adrian M. Green Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Delta Psi Lambda Chapter 2013 Miss Black and Gold Scholarship Pageant, Chairman Omicron Tau Chapter Advisor
Social Media Buzz!! @DENVERALPHAS
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2013 GEORGE E. HAILEY SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS!
Noah Johnson Clarence Allen III Langston Williams Houston McCann Alexander Neal Malik Taylor
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. – Awards Scholarships to Area High School Students Held May 3, 2013 at University of Denver, The Daniels College of Business – The Fritz Knoebel School of Hospitality Management
Eleven students from the Greater Metropolitan Denver area received the Delta Psi
Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., “Harold S. Brown Scholarship Award”. This annual event was also sponsored in part by The Center for Multicultural Excellence at the University of Denver and the George E. Hailey Endowment Fund. Funds for the scholarship are given from the 501c (3) Tax-Exempt George E. Hailey Scholarship Endowment and Fundraising events of Delta Psi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. The students receiving the $500.00 stipends each were Clarence Allen III (Highlands Ranch High School); Antonio Hill Jr. (Overland High School); J’Quan D. Howard (CEC Middle College of Denver); and Noah Johnson (George Washington High School). The students receiving the $1,000.00 Scholarship award each were DVonte Johnson (George Washington High School); Ariel Manzanares-Scisney (Lakewood High School); Houston W. McCann (Gateway High School), Alexander H. Neal (Denver School of Science); Malik K. Taylor (Montebello High School), Dion Williams (Cherokee Trail High School); and Langston A. Williams (George Washington High School). The Keynote speaker for the awards Program was Mr. George William Hoey, Co-chair of the Student Affairs Diversity Committee at the University of Colorado – Boulder. The theme of keynote speech by Mr. Hoey was; “Preparing for the Demographic Shift – Strong Black Leaders Needed for the 21st Century”. Of the several themes covered during his speech, Mr. Hoey encourages each award winner to have high goals and being willing to put forth the effort to achieve their goals. The Master of Ceremony for this event was Brother Ben Sanders III. Brother Dr. Jeriod Patterson who also serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the GEH Endowment Fund, and Brother George E. Hailey for whom the endowment fund is named presented certificates and award letters to the winners. The evening was also enhanced by the music provided by the group The Old Souls. Brother Vince Ellerby, Vice Chairmen of the GEH Endowment Fund, gave concluding remarks. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African-Americans, and was founded at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. Since it’s founding on December 4, 1906, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has supplied voice and vision to the struggle of African-Americans and people of color around the world. Fratenally,
Bro. Steven L. Jones
On February 23, 2013 the Delta Psi Lambda chapter of
At the end of the session gift cards were raffled away to a Alpha Phi Alpha held a youth program at the United Church few of the young men in attendance. The attendees were left asking for us to convene over the summer for a BBQ. The of Montbello under the title of Young Men of Alpha. The brothers of Alpha will oblige. young men met with the brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha to speak about issues that affect us as minority men and to The Young Men of Alpha is a community service project of provide guidance and mentorship. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Locally; the program is adPresenters that day were Brother’s Ben Sanders who spoke ministered through the Delta Psi Lambda (Denver Alumni) Chapter. Young Men of Alpha is under the umbrella of an on the true meaning of swag and Brother Steve Jones who Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. national program titled, spoke on time management. The young men were served Go to High School Go to College, established in 1922, and refreshments and a meal while in attendance. concentrates on the importance of completing secondary and collegiate education as a road to advancement. StaThe Young Men of Alpha also met on May 25, 2013. The topics covered at the session were respect for women, pride tistics prove the value of this extra impetus in making the difference in the success of young African-American men, for community, and pride of culture. Brother’s Michael given that school completion is the single best predictor of King-Stockton and Kevin Wright were among the presentfuture economic success. Through the Go-to-High-School, ers. Go-to-College educational initiative, young men receive information and learn strategies that facilitate success. We The event was well attended by local community youth are targeting Young men ages 12-18, but no young man will and the brothers of Alpha. The brothers were challenged by be turned away. many thought provoking questions from the youth, as they were truly engaged in the topics being presented. The Young Men of Alpha meet at the United Church of Besides the local you and the brothers of Alpha, the event Montbello the last Saturday of the month from 10am till was also attended by fathers and local activist Brother Jeff, 1pm. If you are interested please contact Brother Demond father of brother’s Adrian and Aaron Green. Harper at (303) 246-4132 or denveralphas1906@gmail.com
Fraternally, Bro. Demond Harper
Project Alpha Now Faith Christian Center hosted the Youth Male
and Female Sexual Responsibility event in conjunction with the recently established Youth Male and Female Sexual Responsibility Program N2MEC (Intimacy) target age group is 12 – 18, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., - Delta Psi Lambda Chapter of Denver on November 3, 2012. After opening remarks by Mrs. Harper, a short film was shown by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. called Project Alpha, which provided several situations of high school students and the inter-relationship of student behavior and male and female sexual responsibility. The film is designed to stimulate follow-up conversation in separate breakout groups of males and females youth, to discuss the situations portrayed in the film. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and the March of Dimes began collaboratively implementing Project Alpha in 1980.
Brothers during the Young Men of Alpha program along with Miss Black and Gold 2013 Photo Credit: Jeff Fard (BrotherJeff.com)
A Voteless People Is A Hopeless People
While the 2012 Presidential Election is over, Alpha
Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and Delta Psi Lambda continue on with our efforts in voter registration. Delta The event was attended by over 50 local youth and Psi Lambda Chapter has again this year been approved entertainment was provided by local dance and singing as an Authorized Organizer and Agent to conduct voter groups. The event was well attended by the Brothers registration drives in the state of Colorado for 2013. of Alpha Phi Alpha and a special mention to the new- A voter registration drive was held on May 8, at Gateest initiates of the Delta Psi Lambda chapter for all of way High School in Aurora; in addition to Delta Psi their hard work before and after the program. Lambda have a voter registration table at the May 27, Memorial Day Parade held in Commerce City. Fraternally, In January during the installation of our new General Bro. Demond Harper President Brother Mark Tillman, I am pleased to report; I was also sworn in as the National Chairman for our National Program, “A Voteless People Is A Hopeless People”. During the Fraternities National Convention in Austin Texas to be held in late June; more information will be provided on the national programs related to this committee, “A Voteless People Is A Hopeless People”, will be driving for the 2014 midterm and 2016 Presidential Election. Bro. Steven Jones National Chairman – A Voteless People Is A Hopeless People
Respectfully Submitted.
NEWS AROUND THE DISTRICT
Pictured: Brothers from Iota Omicron Lambda (Colorado Springs, CO) in action during the 2013 March for Babies event (top).Bro. Fowler & Citizen of the Year (bottom left). Photo credit: Bro. R. Fowler
Message from the Newly Appointed Rocky Mountain District Director-Elect “Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Develops Leaders, Promotes Brotherhood and Academic Excellence, While Providing Service and Advocacy For Our Communities.” Our mission statement guides the actions of the Fraternity, spell out its overall goal, provide a path, and guides decision-making. It provides the necessary framework or context within which the Fraternity's strategies are formulated. I am truly humbled to be elevated to the position of leading the great Rocky Mountain District! I must first give thanks to Brother Doctor Jeriod Patterson for leading this district to the firm ground on which it stands today. I know that leading any organization is a thankless job, but we must all stand and applaud the tireless work over the last four years of Brother Doctor Patterson! I also want to thank our Western Region Vice President-Elect, Brother Russell Flye, for his confidence in appointing me to this esteemed position. I, along with the Brothers of this district, will work hard to carry out the Vice President’s vision to move this region forward. To the Brothers of Delta Psi Lambda, Iota Omicron Lambda, Pi Xi Lambda, and Omicron Tau, you are the heartbeat of the Western Region. I ask that you continue to think outside the box and lead with new and innovative ideas! I know that one of our challenges will continue to be the reinvigoration of our college membership. The demographics of the area may be a challenge, but certainly not insurmountable. Continuing the early mentorship of young men in our communities will surely pay dividends in the long run. One of our many strengths in this district is strong mentorship. Senior Brothers, we need you! I applaud the Senior Brothers for allowing the younger Brothers to ascend to the mantle of leadership, but we still need you actively involved. You have within your repository that good ‘ol Alpha Spirit! Please continue to share your wealth of wisdom upon which we will continue to grow. I am proud of the teamwork exhibited within the Rock Mountain District. We need to continue to work together, share best practices, and uplift each other. With the work going on within this district, there is absolutely no reason we should not be competing at the highest levels for regional and national awards. Let’s make it happen! Chapter Presidents, as a part of this leadership team, I ask you to be proactive. You have been entrusted to lead your respective chapters; this is not a passive responsibility. Alphas are men of distinction. We need to continue to be men of distinction within our communities. There is much work to be done, and we have been called to do it… To quote our own Brother Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr., “Everybody can be great...because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” Created Through Necessity Forged Through Adversity Held Together by Brotherly Love This is Alpha Phi Alpha! Much Fraternal Love! Brother Willard E. “Will” Bell, Sr. Rocky Mountain District Director
NPHC FOUNDERS DAY CELEBRATION
The tantalizing aroma of a southern style brunch excited fraters and sorors from the nine major African-American fraternities and sororities and their guest as we filed into Blossoms Restaurant at Heather Gardens adorned in their organizations colors. The restaurant was beautifully decorated, and sunlight flooded through the wall of windows that framed a picture perfect view of the golf course. Glynis Thompson, the President of the Denver chapter of the National Pan Hellenic Council (NPHC), kicked of the celebration of the 83rd anniversary of the founding of the National Pan Hellenic Council with an electrifying welcome. During the event, a snippet of each organizations hymn was played and the members of the organization stood in honor of their organization. The highlight of the event was the honoring of a member of each of the organizations. Each honoree was selected for their work in their respective organization and in the community. Our very own Brother Demond Harper was the honored. A small band of Alpha brothers of Delta Psi Lambda Chapter gathered to celebrate the achievement of Brother Harper and a good time was had by all. On May 10, 1930, on the campus of Howard University, in Washington DC, the National Pan-Hellenic Council was formed as a permanent organization with the following charter members: Omega Psi Phi and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternities, and Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta and Zeta Phi Beta Sororities. In 1931, Alpha Phi Alpha and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternities joined the Council. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority joined in 1937 and Iota Phi Theta Fraternity completed the list of member organizations in 1997. The mission and purpose of the NPHC is “Unanimity of thought and action as far as possible in the conduct of Greek letter collegiate fraternities and sororities, and to consider problems of mutual interest to its member organizations.� Fraternally, Bro. Andre Brooks
Pictured: NPHC Founders Day Award Recipients (top). Brothers show support for Bro. Harper receiving his award for ourtsanding leadership in the community! Photo credit: Bro. Brooks/Harper
“We Party Hard We Study Late BUT MOST OF ALL WE GRADUATE!” Congratulations to Bro. Aaron Jackson (top) Omicron Tau Chapter Bro. Jasire Conner (left) Delta Psi Lambda Chapter
UPCOMING EVENTS IN THE COMMUNITY
Iota Omicron Lambda / Delta Psi Lambda
Golf & Picnic Event SATURDAY, JULY 13, 2013 US AIR FORCE ACADEMY
THE BROTHERS OF THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN DISTRICT EXTEND OUR SINCERE THANKS TO OUR IMMEDIATE PAST DISTRICT DIRECTOR BRO. DR. JERIOD D. PATTERSON FOR YOUR UNWAVERING SERVICE AND DEDICTION TO OUR DISTRICT. YOU HAVE ELEVATED US TO A HIGHER LEVEL AND WE ARE GRATEFUL TO CALL YOU OUR BROTHER. YOU HAVE SET THE BAR HIGH FOR ALPHA EXCELLENCE, AND WE WISH YOU WELL ON YOUR NEXT VENTURE IN ALPHA, AND IN LIFE!
DELTA PSI LAMBDA IOTA OMICRON LAMBDA OMICRON TAU PI XI LAMBDA
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERITY, INC. ® DELTA PSI LAMBDA CHAPTER PO Box 200296 Denver, CO 80220-0296 DenverAlphas1906@gmail.com www.denveralphas.net Copyright © 2013 All Rights Reserved