Greetings Brothers of the Great State of Georgia and beyond Welcome to Volume XX of the Friendship Chronicles The State of Georgia Organization is comprised of 46 chapters providing service in 40 counties and 16 colleges and universities. We are dedicated to empowering the youth, strengthening families, and uplifting the community The purpose of the Friendship Chronicles is to highlight the great work that chapters and brothers are doing across the State
In this edition of the Chronicles, you will see various articles from chapters across the state highlighting programming in the first quarter. Also included are candidate announcements for State and District positions, and Bro. Dr. Chris Pugh’s Rolling Out Magazine article, entitled, “Black Men: Powerfully Reclaiming the Authentic Narratives That Define Us.” The Chaplain’s Corner features the Manhood Monday Call information, along with the Book Spotlight, “Think Like a Monk” with a short summary and review.
I hope you enjoy the continued updates to the Friendship Chronicles As we continue striving in this fraternal year, our theme is ”EXPERIENCING GREATNESS!” Special thank you to Bro Dr John Williams, Director of Public Relations and our State Chaplain, Bro Mohandas Martin, for their work on the Friendship Chronicles and continuing to demonstrate excellence in everything that we do
Bro. David C. Jones
GA State Representative
LEADERSHIP WELCOME
EDITOR’S NOTES
Friends, it is indeed an honor to continue serving! I’m thrilled to continue in collaboration with Bro Martin in the growth of this reinvigorated Friendship Chronicles. My goal as State PR Director is certainly to enrich the brand of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. in the State of Georgia, and engage in dynamic storytelling. After serving as the State Graphic Designer for six years (s/o to Bro Marvin Broadwater, Sr ), I’m excited for this platform to showcase much of the work, and of course, continue developing communications, branding, and PR skills and competencies. I welcome ALL who may be interested in joining the State PR Team and becoming contributors to the FC BIG EMPHASIS on Undergraduate Relations and Professional Development
Stay tuned for all forthcoming publications and communications from the State Organization Special s/o to Bro. Phillip Mayo, our Social Media Lead. Make sure you follow us on all social media platforms (@OmegaPsiPhi_StateOfGeorgia) and stay connected to all the action and progress, as we are “EXPERIENCING GREATNESS!”
Brother Dr. John Williams Editor & Designer
CHAPLAIN’S CORNER
My Friends, welcome to the Friendship Chronicles (FC). The definitive goal of the FC team, is to ensure that the great Brothers of Georgia are completely cognizant of all prominent activities the Brothers are engaging in, throughout Georgia. Brothers, it is known fact that Georgia leads the arenas of Omega. The FC is a significant asset to Sphere” attitude Some inspiration going forward: you don't have. what you don't know. you don't believe. don't sacrifice don't release hate you don't study. you don't start. leader, if you don't follow you don't serve
State Chaplain & Editor
Psi Omega Spr. 98
Brothers of the greatest Fraternity on the face of the Earth, I was reading and pondering on the goodness of life and came across this: “Every thought-seed sown or allowed to fall into the mind, and to take root there, produces its own, blossoming sooner or later into act and bearing its own fruitage of opportunity and circumstance. Good thoughts bear good fruit, bad thoughts bad fruit.” With that being said, I look forward to seeing each of you reading this note on the Monday Manhood Prayer Call.
Brother Mohandas Martin “Dino”
THINK LIKE A MONK: Train Your Mind for Peace and Purpose Every Day
Publisher’s Summary
Jay Shetty distills the timeless wisdom he learned as a monk into practical steps anyone can take every day to live a less anxious, more meaningful life.
When you think like a monk, you’ll understand:
-How to overcome negativity
-How to stop overthinking
-Why comparison kills love
-How to use your fear
-Why you can’t find happiness by looking for it
-How to learn from everyone you meet
-Why you are not your thoughts
-How to find your purpose
-Why kindness is crucial to success
-And much more...
Shetty grew up in a family where you could become one of three things a doctor, a lawyer, or a failure. His family was convinced he had chosen option three: instead of attending his college graduation ceremony, he headed to India to become a monk, to meditate every day for four to eight hours, and devote his life to helping others.
In this inspiring, empowering book, Shetty draws on his time as a monk to show us how we can clear the roadblocks to our potential and power. Combining ancient wisdom and his own rich experiences in the ashram, Think Like a Monk reveals how to overcome negative thoughts and habits, and access the calm and purpose that lie within all of us. He transforms abstract lessons into advice and exercises we can all apply to reduce stress, improve relationships, and give the gifts we find in ourselves to the world. Shetty proves that everyone can and should think like a monk.
What’s Going on Around GEORGIA
ETA OMEGA Ques Provide Holiday Uplift
By: Brothers Matthew Anderson and Jason V. Jackson
Atlanta, GA - Eta Omega’s Social Action Committee (SAC), led by Brothers Matthew Anderson and Hoyt Nunnally, III, spearheaded the Chapter’s 2024 Toy Drive. The SAC partnered with St. Peter Missionary Baptist Church and Cascade Elementary School, who identified 10 families experiencing housing insecurity.
In addition to toys, the Eta Omega also provided clothing donations to the children in those families and a small gift bag for the children’s parents. The Chapter also made a cash donation to supplement a dinner program for the families at St. Peter on December 21. St. Peter liaised with Toys for Tots for additional toys for the families, and the SAC picked-up the toys and delivered them to the Church.
The SAC thanks the ladies of the Atlanta Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., who were on hand to assist in sorting the toys. The SAC also thanks St. Peter Missionary Baptist Church and Cascade Elementary for trusting us with their families, and the Brotherhood for providing support.
DeKAAtur Ques
Annual Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl
By: Bro. Yaseen Muhammad | DeKalb County, GA
On the frigid morning of January 25, 2025, a warming light emanates from Arabia High School in Stonecrest, GA. It is the 39th annual “Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl,” and the Brothers of Kappa Alpha Alpha (KAA) Graduate Chapter proudly march into the school’s hallways to help with this year’s reading competition.
At first glance, the school’s parking lot suggests there’s a state-wide championship game- or maybe (even) a graduation. Cars and minivans overflow into unmarked asphalt, plus all available grass. On this Saturday morning, such casual assumptions are incorrect.
Today’s crowd has gathered to support Dekalb County’s brightest minds in a trivia-based game of reading comprehension and sheer discipline.
The Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl organizes students to face-off with other teams at their respective grade levels: elementary, middle, and high school. Actual teams are comprised of 5 students and a faculty coach.
Armed with hand-held buzzers, students rush to respond and correctly answer questions based on pre-selected readings. At the end of four rounds, the teams with the most correct answers...win 1st place. There is a winner for each grade-level.
Guided by Scholarship, there is no mystery why Omega Psi Phi’s KAA is amid this year’s marquee literacy event. Assigned to Classroom C, Omega Men moderate trivia questions, keep time, and tally final scores. Cheerful Brothers provide hallway directions and give encouragement.
Hours of stiff competition and literary prowess (finally) culminates into the competition-wide awards ceremony. Students, parents, and faculty pack into the school’s auditorium and awaited the highly anticipated results. How refreshing to see Our youth captivated by such endeavors.
Finally, 2025’s winning teams are announced for the Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl. Trophies are held high, and parents rush to embrace their champions. One can already hear the chatter of “wait till next year” spur throughout the crowd. God willing, Kappa Alpha Alpha which is currently lead by Brothers: Basileus Tim Roberson, Vice Basileus Clint Raines, and Social Action Chair Bodae Vogt, will meet next year’s competitors at the school’s front door.
ETA OMICRON & CHI EPSILON (HOXE)
By: Bro. Elijah Macon | Albany, GA
On Monday January 20th, the brothers of Eta Omicron and Chi Epsilon partnered with the ladies of Albany Alumnae and Delta Rho chapters of Delta Sigma Theta for our MLK Day of Service. We served in three different locations on this day: Cordele, Sylvester, and Albany, giving away hot soup, socks, hats and blankets. The brothers also participated in the annual MLK Day Program organized by Bro. Frank Wilson at Shiloh Baptist Church at 10AM with the Walk immediately following. This has become one of our staple service projects and each year it continues to grow larger. We are glad to be able to connect with our expanded service area covering Southwest Georgia and beyond.
CHI GAMMA GAMMA QUES
Omega Brothers Bring Legacy of Omega Psi Phi to CDC Leadership
By: Bro. Edward R. Davis | XGG News Service
ATLANTA, GA – Vail, Roberts, Blaylock, Turner, Carson, Gordon, Smith, and Hamm may sound like an all-star baseball batting order, but they are much more. They are all-stars of science research, data analysis, and communications at the CDC (Centers for Disease Control & Prevention) in Atlanta who happen to be fraternity brothers from metro Atlanta chapters of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated.
Brother Eddie Vail (Chi Gamma Gamma); Brother David Roberts (Chi Gamma Gamma); Brother Dr. Mo Blaylock (Theta Lambda Lambda); Brother Jonathan Turner (Kappa Alpha Alpha); Brother Reginald Carson (Delta Mu Mu); Brother Geoffrey Gordon (Kappa Alpha Alpha); Brother Don Hamm Med (Phi Kappa Kappa); and Brother Tantalous Smith (Phi Kappa Kappa) bring a fraternally-linked commitment to excellence to the nation's leading science-based data-driven service organization.
That these outstanding journeymen at CDC are Omega Men, all speaking the same scientific and data language protecting public health may be an interesting factoid among their colleagues, but it comes as no surprise in the Omega Psi Phi universe.
The are 30 Omegas locally with the CDC who are volunteering across metro Atlanta in community work and professionally contributing to making CDC the global leader in public health. Both Brother Vail MSA, and Brother Roberts, MPH, have been honored with the Chi Gamma Gamma Superior Service Award (Brother Vail in 2024; Brother Roberts in 2023). Chi Gamma Gamma serves North Fulton and Cobb County.
Brother Vail chairs the chapter’s marquee community volunteer partnership with the Reflections of Trinity Food Bank, that in 2024 had teams of Omega Men engaged in food distribution for 36 of the 52 weeks in the year and collectively racking up over a thousand hours of volunteer service. At the CDC, he serves as Lead Administrative Officer. He entered Omega Psi Phi in 1983 at Morris Brown College, Alpha Sigma Chapter.
Brother Roberts serves as the chair of several health initiatives fostering better individual health of fraternity members and their families, and fundraising for the American Cancer Society in the chapter’s service area of North Fulton County and Cobb County. At CDC he serves as the Deputy Branch Chief of the Program Services Branch located in the Division of Cancer and Prevention Control (DCPC), National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (NCCDPHP). And has been recognized as HBCU Excellence at CDC. He was initiated into the fraternity in 2013 through Rho Omega, a graduate chapter in Shreveport, Louisiana. He earned his undergraduate degrees from Grambling State University and his Master of Public Health at Jackson State University.
Brother Blaylock PhD, and Brother Turner MPH are senior microbiologists in the Division of Regulatory Science and Compliance, Office of Readiness and Response. They conduct inspections and evaluate biosafety, biosecurity, and biocontainment of laboratory facilities. Brother Dr. Blaylock is a member of American Society for Microbiology (ASM). He joined Omega Psi Phi in 1995 through the Alpha Gamma Chapter at Savannah State College. He earned his PhD in microbiology at Howard University, the home of the Mother Pearl - Alpha Chapter. Brother Turner in his work at Kappa Alpha Alpha in DeKalb County is involved with Domestic Violence Awareness. He is a graduate of Morehouse College; he joined the fraternity at KAA in 2000.
Brother Carson is a former Delta Mu Mu Omega Man of the Year; the highest chapter award an Omega can receive. Delta Mu Mu serves North Fulton County. He has held local, regional, and national leadership positions, including serving as part of the National Tribunal that governs the fraternity’s anti-hazing policy. At the CDC he serves as Deputy Branch Chief of the Division of HIV Prevention, National Center for HIVAIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention. He joined the fraternity in 1987 at Elizabeth State University, Lambda Gamma Chapter.
Brother Gordon is the lead information technology specialist in the Customer Engagement Office of the Office of the Chief Information Officer, where he serves as a subject matter expert in networks, network protocols, and specific functions available to labs modernization. He was initiated in 1986 through the gateway of Pi Gamma Chapter at Norfolk State University into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
Brother Hamm and Brother Smith serve as Director and Deputy Director, respectively, of the Logistics Property Management Services Office of the Office of Safety, Security and Asset Management at CDC. They provide operational oversight for CDC-wide property and transportation policies and procedures. Brother Hamm was initiated into the fraternity in the Tau Psi Chapter at North Carolina Central University in 1981. Brother Smith came to Omega in 1980 by way of the Theta Delta Chapter at Northwestern State University.
This Black History Month, the CDC proudly salutes Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and each of the African American fraternities and sororities, all of which have made invaluable contributions as working Americans to the CDC, the country, and the communities they serve.
PHI KAPPA KAPPA QUES
When Your Profession and Passion Align with a Mandated Program: Derrick J.
Jackson's
Journey to the 2024 Governor’s Award for Arts and Humanities
By: Bro. Isaiah Bell, Ed.D.
Brother Derrick J. Jackson, a distinguished trombonist, educator, and curriculum innovator, has been honored with the 2024 Governor’s Awards for the Arts and Humanities. This prestigious accolade, announced by Governor Brian P. Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp, celebrates individuals and organizations that have significantly contributed to Georgia's cultural landscape.
Jackson's artistic journey spans over 25 years, marked by notable achievements in both performance and education. His dedication to the trombone has earned him widespread acclaim, while his innovative approach to arts education has enriched the lives of countless students, fostering a deep appreciation for music.
As a student, Jackson was awarded the Talent Hunt Scholarship, recognizing his exceptional musical abilities early on. This scholarship was pivotal in his development, providing opportunities to refine his craft and pursue his passion for music.
In addition to his personal achievements, Jackson has made significant contributions to the Phi Kappa Kappa Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. He has served as both the Talent Hunt Chairman and Co-Chairman, playing a crucial role in identifying and nurturing young talent. His leadership in these positions has helped many aspiring musicians gain the support and exposure they need to succeed.
As a member of the Phi Kappa Kappa Chapter, Jackson embodies the Fraternity's values of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift. His commitment to these principles is evident in his work, where he continually strives to inspire and mentor young musicians. His involvement in the fraternity also highlights his dedication to community service and leadership, further cementing his role as a pillar of the arts community in Georgia.
The Governor’s Awards for the Arts and Humanities celebrate the diverse and vibrant cultural fabric of Georgia. Jackson's recognition is a testament to his enduring impact on the state's creative industries. His contributions have not only elevated the standard of arts education but have also ensured that the arts remain an integral part of community life. Through his efforts, Jackson has helped to create a more inclusive and dynamic cultural environment, where the arts can thrive and inspire future generations.
PHI KAPPA KAPPA QUES
When Your Profession and Passion Align with a Mandated Program: Derrick J. Jackson's Journey to the 2024 Governor’s
Award for Arts and Humanities
Jackson's award reflects his unwavering dedication to the arts and his ability to inspire others through his work. His achievements serve as a beacon of excellence, encouraging others to pursue their passions and contribute to the cultural richness of Georgia. As he continues to innovate and lead in the field of arts education, Jackson's legacy will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the state's cultural heritage.
In conclusion, Derrick J. Jackson's recognition as a 2024 Governor’s Awards for the Arts and Humanities recipient is a well-deserved honor that highlights his significant contributions to the arts and education. His work exemplifies the transformative power of the arts and underscores the importance of fostering a vibrant cultural community. Through his dedication and passion, Jackson has not only enriched the lives of those he has taught and performed for but has also strengthened the cultural fabric of Georgia, ensuring that the arts remain a vital and celebrated
ETA OMEGA Chapter’s Health Initiative: Procuring an AED and Ensuring Proper Training for All Brothers
By: Brother Wm. Reeder
Atlanta, GA - In recent years, the health and safety of Brothers attending Eta Omega Chapter events has become a growing priority. Eta Omega’s Health Initiatives Committee, which is led by Committee Chair Bro. Dr. Earl Thurmond, started with taking blood pressures of the Brothers before and after the monthly General Body Meeting. Further recognizing that emergencies can strike at any time, the Health Initiatives Committee took a significant step toward enhancing the wellbeing of the Brothers by purchasing an automated external defibrillator (AED) for use at events held at the Chapter's meeting location.
The decision to procure an AED came after careful consideration of the potential risks that could arise during Chapter Meetings and other hosted events. As an organization committed to ensuring the safety and support of its community, the Eta Omega Chapter realized the importance of being prepared for situations where swift medical intervention could make a lifesaving difference. Sudden cardiac arrest, which is sometimes called “(SCA”, can happen without warning, and having an AED on-site can increase the likelihood of survival by as much as 70% when the AED is used promptly.
The Health Initiatives Committee, which focuses on promoting health, wellness and safety among both Brothers and the larger community, spearheaded the effort. After assessing the needs of the Chapter and the potential risks of not having immediate access to defibrillation equipment, the Committee took decisive action. The Committee recommended that the Chapter purchase an AED that would be available for use at all events hosted at the Chapter’s meeting location.
By the end of 2024, the Health Initiatives Committee’s efforts bore fruit when the AED was successfully purchased and made available for use. It was a gift from Eta Omega’s Fall 2021 line, the Chapter’s most recent initiates. Acquiring the AED not only aligned with the Chapter's broader commitment to health but also demonstrated a proactive approach to safeguarding the wellbeing of all attendees, from Brothers to their guests. The presence of the AED serves as a vital safety net, ensuring that those present at any event have access to life-saving resources should an emergency arise.
ETA OMEGA Chapter’s Health Initiative
Procuring an AED and Ensuring Proper Training
Recognizing that acquiring the AED was only one part of the equation, the Health Initiatives Committee also organized a training session for all chapter members to ensure that everyone would be equipped to respond effectively in an emergency. On Saturday, December 21, 2024, weeks after purchasing the device, Brothers of the Chapter gathered to attend a comprehensive training event designed to teach proper AED usage.
The training session was led by certified instructors who walked participants through the operation of the AED, emphasizing the critical steps involved in using the device during a medical emergency. The session also covered CPR techniques, as it’s often necessary to perform chest compressions in conjunction with AED use. By the end of the session, participants had a solid understanding of the life-saving capabilities of the AED and how to apply them in a real-world situation.
For the Chapter, this initiative represented more than just the acquisition of medical equipment; it embodied the Chapter’s commitment to the health and safety of the Brothers and a broader sense of responsibility. The training ensured that, in the event of a cardiac emergency, Brothers
DeKAAtur Ques
March in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade
By: Bro. Clarence Pittman | Decatur, GA
Recently, KAA brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and other D9 members were among hundreds who marched in the NAACP Dekalb County Branch’s 23rd annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade outside the Mall in the city of Stonecrest, Georgia.
The new Dekalb County CEO Larraine CochraneJohnson, along with other community leaders, spoke and uplifted this Stonecrest community during the Parade symposium. And clearly, the NAACP County Branch members were key coordinators, producers and marchers. Other key marchers included the elected County officials such as the District 2 Commissioner Michelle Long Spears, Superior Court Clerk Debra DeBerry and team, and Stonecrest Mayor Jazzmin Cobble.
This year’s theme: “Still I Rise,” highlights a fundamental aspect of Dr. King’s legacy, who is the most important leader of the Civil Rights era and perhaps the most significant, most admired hero and political figure in American history.
Other key parade participants included: The Cross Keys High School Marching Band, Save Our DeKalb County Animals (SODA), Jakequeline “Jake” Walls with Freedom Riders van, Gabrielle Rogers and team with the DeKalb Section of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), Ashley Triplet the Ultimate Pageant Ms. Georgia, Top Ladies of Distinction (TLOD), The Stonecrest Garden Club, The Dazzling Gems Majorettes, Conservatory of Dance, and the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County, Inc. For this event, the KAA Chapter brothers were led by basileus Tim Roberson, vice basileus Clint Raines, and SAC chair Bodae Vogt.
Some in city of Stonecrest may feel troubled during these challenging materialistic modern times because of modern issues that appear to be the same past issues. However, the synergistic vibes felt and seen on this Parade Day among residents of different cultures, skin colors, and ages strongly illustrated traits and skills towards actively narrating a more quality lifestyle for now and the immediate future.
DR. M. CHRISTOPHER PUGH
Guest
Contributor in Rolling Out Magazine
Black Men: Powerfully Reclaiming the Authentic Narratives That Define Us
For Black men, what is love without respect? It’s a hollow sentiment, a tool for manipulation, obsession, and abuse. Respect is not merely a virtue; it is the foundation upon which love stands. For men, especially those of our image, likeness, and culture, respect is not optional; it is mandatory. Without it, our identity becomes vulnerable to those who exploit and distort our essence for their own gain.
Black men are tasked with a formidable challenge: owning and highlighting our image for the sake of self-respect. In a world where deception often overshadows truth, men must stand steadfast. We must breathe, speak, and embody truth even when surrounded by those who seek to undermine us.
But here lies the problem: too many voices, those who are neither of us nor for us, have claimed ownership over the narratives that define Black men. They manipulate our habits, emotions, and images in an effort to control our image. When others control how we are perceived, they risk dictating how we perceive ourselves. Ironically, many of these same voices neither desire our company nor understand our value.
Why is a Black man’s presence unsettling to some? Because his very existence exposes insecurity, ambiguity, and discomfort. His truth, a truth grounded in reality and fact, as defined by the 1828 Webster’s Dictionary, is a threat to those who thrive on deception. For them, acknowledging a man’s truth is tantamount to admitting their incompetence, manipulation, or malice.
These same voices are celebrated, albeit, for crafting narratives about men they neither know nor care to understand. Their distorted depictions create avatars, fictional representations of “Black men”, that serve as scapegoats and profit engines in a game where families and communities are the ultimate casualties.
The game is insidious. Many don’t even realize they are players. They fail to see how the distortion of men’s images benefits those who perpetuate these narratives. Take, for instance, the term “real man.” It’s a phrase weaponized by deceivers to mold men into tools of convenience and entertainment. “A real man would,” they say, finishing the sentence with their own desires, regardless of the danger or degradation it imposes on the man. Rarely do they acknowledge that a real man lives his purpose, regardless of external discomfort or ridicule. What is the antidote to this game? Self-respect. When men understand how others profit from their distorted image, they reclaim their power. Self-respect becomes a cultural imperative.
And what is culture? It is both a chosen way of life and our response when choices are stripped away. Culture reveals character—the essence of who we are both publicly and privately. When men prioritize character and culture, they dismantle the avatars used to distort their identity.
Yet, living with purpose comes with its challenges. As men shine their light, they will inevitably encounter shade. The world may ridicule, dismiss, or vilify their presence; however, the world cannot ignore their truth. The assignment for men is clear: make your presence known, felt and appreciated. Live transparently and embrace your purpose, even in the face of opposition.
To those who respect and uplift men, we salute you. Your support is a beacon of hope in a world intent on erasing our worth. In return, we commit to being honest and steadfast. We will provide and protect without neglecting ourselves. We will honor our assignments with integrity and courage.
Because love without respect is not love at all. It is a weapon of mass distraction, a means to control and demean. Respect, on the other hand, is the key to freedom. It is the creed by which men must live.
