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THE SPHINX O F A L P H A PHI ALPHA. T5he Official O r g a n of ?5he A l p h a Phi A l p h a Fraternity. VOL.1
NO. 2
JUNE, 1915,
AN OPEN! LETTER TO THE ALUMNI Dear Brothers of the Alpha Phi Alpha: The Seventh Annual Convention of Alpha Phi Alpha is past, but I hope not forgotten, because of the number of excellent suggestions made and changes wrought by the brothers there assembled. One of the changes which should have a great influence on the future relations of the Alumni to the undergraduate chapters, is that the Alumni tax is to be collected hereafter by the undergraduate Chapters. This will eliminate the old excuse of the Alumni that they are not being kept informed of fraternity affairs through their home Chapters. It will now be the duty of each undergraduate Chapter to keep in constant touch with the Alumni of that Chapter. The secretary of each Chapter is to keep a list of all the Alumni of his Chapter and to see to the collection of the Alumni tax of $1.25 (one dollar for the General Fraternity Fund, 25 cents for the reserve fund), from each Alumni of his Chapter, and $1.00 for The Sphinx. The corresponding secretaries of the various Chapters should begin this work at once. Gather the names and addresses of your Alumni, and send them a statement of their duty, so that the treasury may be enabled to meet a number of pressing bills. Don't stop when you have not secured an answer to your first letter but continue to show your Alumni their duty, both to their Chapter and to the General Organization. Nbw, more than ever before, the success of each individual Chapter will be measured by the amount of Alumni tax raised. I cannot close this letter without making an earnest appeal to our Alumni. The success of the Fraternity is as
much to us as to the undergraduate members. Yes. it is more to us, as we are in a large measure responsible for the advancement it has now made. This being true, we would be held more responsible if the Fraternity failed to keep up with its present excellent standing. The only drawback it now has is the lack of sufficient finance. The majority of us are wage earners and have no excuse for the non-payment of our dues except lack of sufficient knowledge where to send these dues. This will not be so in the future. If the secretary of your Chapter has not located you, send your tax to the Chairman of the Alumni Committee at No. 1, 13th street- Upper Troy, N. Y. He will see that the money is properly placed to your credit, and will send your name and address to the secretary of your undergraduate Chapters. Let every Alumni of Alpha Phi Alpha attend to this at once, and urge each brother with whom you come in contact to do the same. It is also hoped that every Alumnus will subscribe at once for the "Sphinx." It is the official paper of the Fraternity, and this fact alone should make every Alpha Phi Alpha man anxious for its success. The splendid new form of the publication and the excellent articles contained therein should appeal to each one of us. A Fraternity paper cannot run without support, and the support to run "The Sphinx" must come from the members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Fraternallv yours, GEORGE B. KELLEY, Chairman Alumni Committee. NOTICE It is necessary for the Chapters to pay all or a part of their Grand-Tax
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THE 8PIIINX
assessments before the fall, if the working of the Fraternity is not to be hampered. The administration experiences its greatest financial difficulties during the spring and summer. The Chapters can render genuine assistance by remitting promptly. Fraternally,
Mahoney and Johnson, lawyers, of Detroit; Brother Richard Hill, an attorney of Chicago, 111.; Cornelius Henderson, one of the only three Negroes to graduate from the Engineering Department of Michigan, now with the city force of Walkerville- Ontario; Dr. J. H. Alexander, of,Detroit, Mich.; Brother R. A. Reeves has finished his earthly caGENERAL SECRETARY. reer, and crossed the river Styx to join the Celestial Chapter. o Dr. C. C. Middleton, of Savannah. Ga., is of the class of 1912. Together "OUR ALUMNI"—ErsiLON with him are Brother J. H. Hilburn, a In the year of 1904 Brother Callis druggist of Detroit, Mich.. Brother came to Ann Arbor and created an- Robert P. Watts, a public school prinother Chapter to one of the greatest cipal in Blackstone, Va.; Dr. F. B. Fraternities of the Negro race. Every Cooper, a dentist of Portland, Oregon. year since then we have sent out on and J., P. Rodgers, now a Senior in the the world's great battlefield men in the Law Department of Michigan. In 1913 Dr. Herbert Wiggins, of different walks of life bearing someBurton, Ala.; Dr. P. B. Gamble, of where on their anatomy the stamp of Detroit, Mich., left us, but Brother L. Epsilon. So much has been said of the B. Lapsley- who finished, is still with Alumni and so many plans have been us as a junior in the Medical Departformulated to insure their interest that ment. Dr. J. A. Franklin, of Knoxville, we have adopted this plan of telling all members of the Fraternity who and Tenn.. and Brother C. C. Campbell, L. what, as well as where our Alumni L. B., left us in 1914. Brother Campbell is now a secretary of the Y. M. C. are. The first are those of our birth A. at Kansas City, Mo. Time will tell year, Brother Augustus Williams, phar- us of their future. Let us hope that macist- now in Washington, D. C., and they have profited by the examples of Brother E. J. Marshall, now instructor those who have gone before. This article will be without value of chemlistry at Howard University. if those who read it do not prove their The class of 1909. The class of 1910 boasts of Dr. good will by seeking their brothers W. M. Thome, of Charleston, S. C , when they happen to be cast in their Brother George L. Ellison, of Phi Beta vicinity. It is easy to call and wish Kappa fame, instructor in the High them God-speed. This will tend to School Kansas City, Mo., L. E. John- prove that they are not forgotten and son. of the firm of Mahoney & John- to join us together in one chain of son, Detroit, Mich.- W. A. Dodson, De- brotherhood that will at some future troit's only pharmaceutical candy mak- time encircle the globe and make Alpha er, Brother Fred Miller, ex-General Phi Alpha so synonymous with success President, now a successful business that it will become the password into man of Mount Bayou, Miss., and J. R. that greater world toward which we White, a pharmacist of Minneapolis, all are striving. J. A. W H I T E , Minn. Epsilon Chapter. 191 T marked the exodus of our charter members, S. D. Sparks, now a o Senior in the Dental Department and General Treasurer of the organization : GreetDr. W. H. Dickson, of McDonald, Ga.; Brothers in Alpha Phi Alpha, ings : Dr. A. G Pervis, of Charleston, S. C ; Brother B. H. Fisher, lawyer of Toledo, It is with no little pride and satisOhio; C. II. Mahoney, of the firm faction that I have watched the
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growth of this Organization. I was more than pleased at the determined effort of the last convention to preserve the standard and the ideals of the Fraternity at the expense of numbers We must not be snobs, we must not be selfish, but we must never lose sight of these factors. I wish briefly to call the attention of the Fraternity to a sphere of usefulness which it is more able to engage in effectively than any other body of men in America today, and one which demands its immediate and undivided attention. The Negro race is approaching a unique position in its history. During the reconstruction period the Negro was held up as an object of pity and sympathy. Homes were offered to him, school advantages extended, and an opportunity given to enjoy the rights of citizenship. In a measure we were given an opportunity to work out our own destiny. Released from the House of Bondage, protected, encouraged, the race in fifty years has made more rapid progress than any other in history. But now bitterness has begun to die out between the North and the South, and interchange of travel- and finally intermarriage between the two sections have come. Coincident with this, the Negro, from a poor, despicable slave, something to be pitied, has arisen to a partial realization of his opportunities, and is now becoming a competitor, economically, socially and politically. With competition, jealousy has come, and today the peace of certain sections of our country is disturbed by the clash of arms in an attempt to enforce so-called white supremacy by the rule of the Iron Hand. These people say "Hands off! We. know how to deal with the Negro problem. Let us alone!" But, not satisfied with their un-Godly work, these archenemies of our race come North and dictate what should be the policy here. Three times within three "years my own Alma Mater, founded for the purpose of giving any man information on any subject- has been the site of a battle for the defence of our rights as ? race. Nor is this experience unique. I have been to other universities where worse conditions obtain. So insistent
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and persistent have been their efforts that the once active North has become first less active, then passive, and now indifferent. No longer do the voices of our defenders reverberate in the halls of Congress. Few are the men who, on public platforms, crave sentiment in defending us from the assaults of the enemy. Only occasionally does the press awake from its lethargy to voice honest opinions against some unwarranted, unjust attacks on our race. Hay by day discriminations intended to insult and to degrade us creep in. Today the Negro cannot serve his country without being reminded of his color, and made to feel it keenly. Under the dome of the capitol, for the preservation of which Negro men died, segregation stalks about. The dissenting voice of Chief Justice Fuller is dead. Lynching, arson, violation of the spirit and letter of the 14th and 15th Amendments- the peonage system, Jim Crow laws- and segregation have not decreased one iota. Would-be playwrights and authors are engaged in a nefarious work of incessant attempts to villify, to degrade, and to misrepresent our race before the public. In the spot where Lincoln, Douglass, Sumner, Stevens and a host of other honest, unbiased men stood and fell in the defence of a then defenceless people, today stand; Tillman, Vardaman and Wilson, seeking to undo all that has been done. And herein lies the work of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. We must not do as had been said of more than one organization, "meet, eat, sleep- resolve and adjourn." No more representative, no more intelligent, no more capable men exist in fraternal bond in the world today than we boast of within our own ranks. The times demand men of action, minute men. If we are to justify our existence, if we are to deserve our name, we must awake, shoulder the harness, and meet these as men. The pres ervation of this race demands men, and whole men, now to fill the gaps time has made. We are no longer children to be led bv the hand; we no longer need champions of other races to plead our cause. My experience has been that we have the material, we have the? talent- we have the brains among our-
THE SPHINX
selves. Mine is not the false cry, for I would not be an alarmist. We in the Empire State have been amazed .at the inroads prejudice is making on our personal liberties and privileges, right in New York. And may I digress for a moment to say that the majority of our people are asleep to it- and some of the remaining portion actually invite segregation and ask for separate public institutions. As an organization, and as individuals, we cannot afford to be a party to such wilful surrender of our liberties. We must arouse the slumbering giant Ethiopia. We must fight prejudice, even if it comes in the garb of the church. In states where none exist we must fight to the last inch the formation of separate public institutions on the basis of color, for such a division is artificial, unnatural, and unjust, and on such divisions no nation can rest in peace. We must educate our people to fight every infringement on our rights and liberties. We must keep ever before their eyes the words of ex-Gov. Pillsbury- "When you are ready for your rights you will get them, for when you are ready for them you will take them, and you will not get them until yon do take them." So I call upon the Fraternity for a general assault all along the line against this demon which is threatening our very existence as a race. Then, and then only, may "Ethiopia stretch forth her hand to God" and rise. The outlook with men such as you are to guide is good, gentlemen, but only so if we prove ourselves men. ROSCOE C. GILES.
ALPHA P H I MEN R E P O R T SURGICAL CASES At the regular monthly meeting of the Freedmen's Hospital Medical Society, held Wednesday, April, 14th. Brothers Norman Harris- Edwin Henry Lee and Charles H. Garvin, active members of the Beta Chapter and members of the Senior medical class at Howard University, had the distinction of reporting surgical cases in which
they had assisted. Brother Harris reported a case of "cyst of the ampulla of the breast, with intracystic papillowa;" Brother Lee reported a case of "sarcoma of the jaw," and Brother Garvin reported a case "recurrent carcinoma of the breast," and illustrated il with lantern slides made from photomicrographs of pathological sections. The photo-micrographs were made by Brother Albert Williams, of Beta. The papers received the highest commendations from the members present. The society is composed of members of the staff of the Freedmen's Hospital, and for students to appear on the program is considered quite an honor. -oCHAPTBRI LETTER.
BETA—HOWARD UNIVERSITY
In the recent trials for places on the intercollegiate debating teams three Alpha Phi Alpha men entered and three were selected out of a possible four. Those qualifying were Brothers William Pollard, Fred Malone and William Temple. In addition, Brother Temple won the $5.00 prize for being the most excellent debater. In the tryouts for places on a 125pound relay team to compete for Howard at a meet to be held in Baltimore, Brother Sampson led. It is worthy of mention that in every senior examination in the "practice of medicine" an Alpha Phi Alpha man has led. Brother Numa P. G. Adams, exGeneral Treasurer, Alumnus member of Beta, and now a member of the faculty at Howard, recently read a very interesting and illuminating paper on "Fraternities at Howard" before the faculty club. The paper has also been read before a joint session of some of the literary societies. It was complete in every respect and showed the Fraternities to quite an advantage. The high regard in which the members of Beta hold their "Chapter Home" can be judged in no better way than
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by the gifts to it by members at Xmas times. Brothers Grinnage and Moore gave a decorated Xmas tree and the following gifts were found on it Xmas morning: A brass A. P. A. door plate given by Brother Milburn, a carving set by Brothers Garvin and Pollard, a silver sugar dish and twelve spoons by Brothers Lunsford and Beamon, a silver mustard pot by Brother Walker, an axe by Brother Stratton, a snow shovel by Brother Brooks, a bath brush by Brother McKelvie, five silver soup ladles by Brother Firse, and :: broom by Brother Brooks. The recent initiates presented the house with a beautiful mahogany chime clock. The clock chimes every fifteen minutes. Brother Curley, an Alumnus member, now teaching at Manassas Industrial School, sent the house a large photo-engravature of Howard campus and buildings. Brother Clarence Richardson, Alumnus- who has been in the Homeopathic Hospital at Albany, N. Y., since Christmas with a fracture of the hipbone, as the result of a railroad accident, recently paid us a visit while on his way home. He presented Beta with a very beautiful silver tea service, engraved with the monogram of the Fraternity, and a dozen and a half sauce dishes. Brother Earl Crampton, secretary of the Chapter, is manager of the "Year Book" of the Teachers' College and he is putting out a year book that has probably never been equaled in a Negro school. There will be a brief write-up of Alpha Phi Alpha, with cuts of the interior of "Beta's Home." The team that debated Fisk University was composed entirely of Alpha Phi Alpha men. A compilation of the marks of all Fraternity men in the College of Arts and Sciences has been made and shows the Alpha Phi Alpha leading. On the evening of March 20. the Alumni members of the Fraternity teaching at Howard entertained Beta Chapter with an informal smoker. The Alumni are Brothers Murphy and Adams, of Beta, Brother Marshall, of Epsilon, Brother Wesley, of Zeta and
Brother Edmonson, of Iota. The evening was spent pleasantly in games and music and speech making. The general theme was scholarship. Among the out-of-town members present were Brothers Curley, Emory Smith and Ralph Young. During the "wee" hours of Thursday morning, April 15th, Beta Chapter "passed eight candidates over the stormy path." The candidates initiated were L. S. Curtis, Contee Cook, Perci" val R. Piper, Thomas B. D. Dyett, Louis R. Middleton, Abraham Armistead. John L. Waters "and E. B. Stone. This initiation is considered one of the most complete Beta has ever held. Brother Young, Alumnus of Eta, and Brother Wesley, Alumnus of Leta, and Brother Alfonzo Cook, Charter member of Beta, were present throughout the ceremony. On the evening of March 14th Beta elected the following officers:— President, Herman Moore; Vice President, William Harper; Secretary, J. B. Walker; Assistant Secretary, J. P. Sampson ; Treasurer, Roland Milburn, House Manager, R. E. Beamon, Steward Harold Stratton, and Assistant Steward Charles Lunsford. . CHARLLES H. GARVIN. RESOLUTION 1 I In order to stimulate interest in our Alumni, and to further explain the purpose of the fraternity, and magnify its true spirit, a decennial fraternity periodical shall be established. That it be called the "Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity." That it contain a general history, and names, addresses and photographs of all General Officers, Founders and Committeemen of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. That it contain in addition a list of the names and addresses of all members of the Fraternity. That each member subscribe two dollars ($2.00) to defray expenses of publication. (Signed) A. L. SIMPSON, L. H. WEAVER. J. H. N. J O N E S . This resolution was referred to the editor of The Sphinx to be printed in each issue until the next convention. .
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THE SPHINX
The Sphinx Published Quarterly by the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Printed at Virginia Union University, Richmond, Virginia. EDITORIAL S T A F F : Lucius L. McGee .Associate Editor in each Chapter.
EDITOK-IN-CNIEF
BUSINESS STAFF
The Printing Committee Editor-in-Chief, Chairman C. S. Johnson (Gamma-). H. C. Stratton (Beta). Subscription- - - - - - -$i.oo per year This publication is intended for members of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fratccmity only. Address all communications to the Editor-in-Chief. DIRECTORY
II. A. Callis, President, 3629 Forest Ave., Chicago, 111. A. L. Simpson. Vice-President' Wilberforce University, Wilberforce, Ohio. H. H. Long, Secretary, 2347 Georgia Ave., Washington, D. C. S. D. Sparks, Treasurer, 608 Fuller St., Ann Arbor, Mich. 1.. P. McGee, Editor-in-Chief Sphinx, Virginia Union University, Richmond. Va. G. B. Kelly- Chairman Alumni Com'te., 1 Thirteenth St., Upper Troy, N. Y.
JUNE, 1915 EDITORIAL
There are quite a few things upon which we wish to speak in this editorial, and we hope you will not criticise us too severely should we per chance border on radicalism. But these things are true, having been gleaned from experience since we began our work as Editor-in-Chief of The Sphinx.
First: In our editorial in the last number we attempted to show the necessity of supporting the General Organization. Under the caption: "The Great Question," it was plainly shown that the present mailing system is unsatisfactory; and moreover, that byeach member doing just a little thing —such a small thing, so easily and quickly done, that is: sending in his subscriptions, $1.00, and a statementletter expressing a desire for the continual publication of The Sphinx, in compliance with the Postal Laws and Regulations, by April 1st—we could secure second-class postage rates, and by so doing the present expense publication could be curtailed by approximately $5.00 an issue. Probably vou say that that's a small sum. Well, maybe so, but it means $20.00 per year more than the apportionment, which amount we don't have, and that's not a small thing. Equally regretful is the fact that not a single Chapter has complied as such to this urgent request. It is quite strange that delegates of various chapters bring the most favorable reports to the conventions; reports full of enthusiasm, and bubbling over with A. P. A. spirit, yet these Chapters don't find time to send in their Sphinx's subscription. and a statement to the effect that the undersigned names have paid their subscriptions, and desire the continued publication of The Sphinx. Now, don't rush over this hurriedly and think it minor or foreign. But think of it in an appreciative manner. It means that Chapters have been unduly and inexcusably negligent in this matter, whereas as if they would only comply it would mean once done, done forever. And why is it that each Chapter will not comply with this request 2 Second: Some Chapters are yet too sleepy to be awakened by any bombardment of correspondence sent from this office. I have written to all the Chapters at least twice since Januaryand to several, more times, and yet 110 reply has come from those most letharic ones. If you ask me who they are I would decline being too personal, but in the meantime scan the Chapter letters and you can get an
THE SPHINX
idea of some of our complaints. Now.. this should not be so. Remember that when this office is compelled to write a Chapter several times before it can receive any reply, and in some cases no reply, there is an excessive and unnecessary postage bill made in this office upon the treasury. So let us urge each Chapter to remember that one word in our work of editing our organ which carries as much weight as any other we have, namely, "Sphinx Co-operation." Now, for this organ to be pleasing to all> it must not be the product of any one person, but a combination of philosophy, wit and humor coming from all the Chapters and as many Alumni as possible for each issue. Each Chapter wants to know what is going on in the other Chapters. Each Alumnus and Honorary members want to know what is being done in the organization in general. How can it be known 2 Only thru this organ. Then let the Associate-Editor of each Chapter always be alert and keep this office posted with good Chapter news. o
SUGGESTIONS FOR T H E SUMMER
This issue finds us about to go out into another summer's vacation. Some are going out having completed their school career and will enter upon their various professions in different parts of the country. Others of us are going to return to complete our work to reach our goal, to press to our prize More than this, some are changing from active to Alumni members. Now, we all know the needs of our fraternity, and can see opportunities of improvement; so the question is: What can I do to help my Chapter especially and the fraternity in general this summer? Well, in fact each member can answer this question for himself, and it should be answered with deeds rather than words. However, a few suggestions will not be out of place. First: Wherever there are three or
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four Alpha Phi Alpha men gathered together in spirit and love there the Fraternity shall be also- When it is practicable, let the brothers have little get-togethers, and mingle more frequently. "Talk Alpha Phi, think Alpha Phi Alpha- and labor for the broad principles for which Alpha Phi Alpha stands." While together exchange ideas concerning the workings of sister Chapters, and if there is anything in other Chapters which you deem unworthy why carry it back to your Chapter and present it. Moreover, be true fraternity men. Help each other; if you know that a brother is "in straits" dont keep away from him nor put forth special efforts to "dodge" him. But rather lend a helping hand and "get him on his feet." Surely this vernacularism is not strange to quite a few of us who are engaged in menial employment during the summer窶馬either are the conditions. Now, don't go to a city and make no effort to find out whether there are any A. P. A. men there or not. Ascertain from any source whatsoever their addresses- and call on them, not that you want them to give you something, but that you are brothers, have a common interest, alnd a specific in life, namely: our motto. Again, remember your Oaths; let them guide you; forget them not, and finally remember what you represent; who you are and for what you stand. Maintain your good morals, watch your company, "shun the very appearance of evil-" and all will be well for you, for the Chapter and for Alpha Phi Alpha. Hoping you a happy and successful summer.
Don't be surprised to see the Editor at your door any time during the summer. He hopes to have personal interviews with several brothers this summer whom he has not seen before.
Each Chapter which has not done so- will file with this office its directoryalso the names of the officers for next year, immediately.
THK Sl'HINX
CHAPTER LETTERS.
GAMMA—VA. UNION. A signal instance of the social advantages of organized fraternal union may be observed during this season of the year when the College teams are intervisiting. Recently Gamma has welcomed here Brothers Matthews and Stone, of Beta; Brother Muir, of Nu, manager of the Lincoln base ball team, and Brother Cain, also of Nu. The occasion for such personal contact has not been without its effect. They, for instance, know personally twenty more brothers, and we know at least four. At a recent election of officers of the Athletic Association, the student body evinced its regard for the ability of certain men for responsible offices by electing as President of the Association Brother J. S. Johnson, as Secretary Brother H. D. Shaw, Assistant Secretary Brother W. A. Hall, Manager of base ball, Brother V. D. Johnston. The present Manager and Captain of the 1915 base ball team are Brothers Buckner and Daniel, respectively. The tennis team, including the manager, composed entirely of A. Phi A. men, has recently returned bearing a victory from Saint Paul. Brother G. W. Buckner, class 1915, has been chosen by the C. I. A. A. for one of its officials. Brother C. A. Lindsay,' class of 1915, has been asked to deliver the Annual Address before the students of Va. N. and I. I., Petersburg, Va. A recent investigation of the scholarship of college men here showed an advantage of 10 per cent, for A. Phi A. men over non-Fraternity men. Gamma will lose 6 members by graduation. o
EPSILON—UNIVERSITY O F MICHIGAN Among the many interesting features of our Chapter life since our last writing was our spring initiation, which was as usual very interesting for the
candidate. Any one doubting this may ask Brother J. A. Dian, who was the victim. The most important happening, however, was the annual banquet which was visited by our Alumni and presided over by our president. Many interesting speeches were made after a very elaborate repast of French dishes and drinks of a mild but enticing nature. Each Chapter was remembered as we smoked the pipe of peace and drank the cordials of harmony. Brother Roxbury, an Honorary member, and Brother J. H. Hilburn were in attendance' and gave us many words of advice and good cheer. Brother J. A. White gave them an appropriate welcome in response. Brother J. P. Rodgers gave a very vivid hi.r tory of Epsilon and closed his remarks with an outburst of feeling which made us feel the placidity of our brotherhood. Brother Raiford told us tritely of the benefit he had gained since being a member of the Fraternity. This benefit shows that there is a decided good in Fraternity life. Brother S. D. Sparks' words will never be forgotten by those who heard him. Wishing much success to our sister Chapters, we remain as ever Epsilon. J. A. W H I T E . o ZETA—YALE
UNIVERSITY.
Greetings:— Zeta Chapter first of all wants t< congratulate the Editor and his staff for the most excellent Journal, The Sphinx, which has come to us this year. Already the move of the General Convention in the change of form and issuance of our official organ has been justified. Already the unifying influence of the heart to heart talks in the first issue have been felt in every Chapter. Zeta is willing to lend her aid and cooperation to any move that will maintain the high standing to which The Sphinx has been raised. Congratulations, Mr. EditorApril 30th saw the completion of the spring initiation of Eta. Only those
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who have tasted of the joys of Alpha Phi Alpha and know that they are good can appreciate the greatness of the occasion that has resulted in the addition of eight new men to our Chapter. Zeta is now. under the leadership of Brother John Anderson, and through the harmonious cooperation of all the members, in its most profitable stage during its existence. Four of the men came in March and helped to prepare the way for the other four who came in April. Perry T. Johnson, Jr., a graduate of Oberlin College and William M. Ashby- graduate of Lincoln University are the men chosen from the School of Religion, as is also the Rev. Father H. O. Bowles of the St- Lukes Episcopal Church of New Haven. John F . Williams, a graduate of the New Haven High School, and for two years Captain of the debating teams there as well as winner of the Annual Gold Medal, is the man chosen from the Scheffieid Scientific School. A. Clement M'acNeal, a graduate of Talladega, is chosen from the Collegiate Department. Zeta feels herself highly honored to confer the rights of honorary membership in A. P. A. upon Dr. R. F. Fleming, a graduate of the New York Dental School and the leading dentist of New Haven. The Hon. James ALightfoot, A. Howard and graduate and member of the Nutter & Lightfoot Law Firm of Atlantic City, and the Rev. Dr. B. W. Arnett, a graduate of Wilberforce and of Columbia, and the pastor of Bethel A. M. E. Church in New York City- These men have gained for themselves national renown, and bring with them to Zeto and to Alpha Phi Alpha in general great distinction. Zeta wishes especially to mention among its active members Brother William M. Ashby. Mr. Ashby put on the market this winter, a book that has stirredthissection froeao Fs.ci mth stirred this section of the country by its sanguinelogical and rational treatment of the race question. Mr. Ashby has offered a solution that refutes the many superficial and unsatis-
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factory solutions that -law-makers would impose upon us. Every A. P. A. man , and every Negro who has in him the spark of that which is high and right should read "REDDER BLOOD," the novel by William M. Ashby, of YaleAt the Spring Iniation an elaborate banquet was given in honor of the newly elected brethren at the quarters of Zeta. As the entire membership was present both Honorary and Activean occasion long to be remembered was had. A. Wayman Ward acted as toastmaster to the toasts given to Men of Alpha Phi Alpha. Brothers Allen, and Bishop spoke of the past and present men. Brothers Tolliver and Smith spoke of the" men out of school with particular reference to the Law and the Ministry, while President Anderson spoke especially of the newly-chosen men, each of whom responded with the glow and fervor that characterizes the A. P. A. man. The affair closed with the Greek from the Frogs of Aristophanes, and "Bright College Years." Several members of Zeta accompanied the Sociological class on its ansual trip to N'ew York, and while there took in the Round Table Debate between New York and Howard. W. Edward Manning, a Non-Resident member of Zeta came down from New York to take part in the spring initiation- Brother Manning is the leading sign painter in New York. Brother R. F. Fleming is now the possessor of a handsome machine. Zeta enjoys a joy ride occasionally. Brother Allen is recovering from an attack of the Grip. Brothers Williams and Caple opposed each other in a most interesting and stirring debate on the Responsibility of Germany for the Present War. They settled the affair for all time: "Germany is guilty." Brother Elliott has at last finished his thesis on the "Negro Church in America." Special copies of it are being made by the Department of Missions to be placed in the Missions Library together with some very valuable books which Mr. Elliott has presented to the University.
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Brothers Smith and Tribbette spent Easter out of the city. The first one at his charge in Washington, and the latter with the Scientific School's trip throughout the state and in New YorkZeta is sending in several new subscriptions to The Sphinx. s A. WAYMAN WARD. o IOTA—SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY Last February the College of Fine Arts saw fit to give an exhibit of paintings by students in that college. Brother Herring was represented and was fortunate in receiving one of the first prizes for the best landscape with figures out of doors. Brother Herring also sold a larger number of pictures than any student who exhibited. Brother Joseph Saunders has just been awarded first prize of $20.00 by the Onandaga Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution for tlv. best essay submitted. His subject was i "Thomas Jefferson's Contribution to the Constitution of the United States." There were sixty competitors, all white except Brother Saunders. Brother Joseph Trigg is one of the faithful varsity men of the University, serving on both the football team and the rowing crew. He is a deserving owner of his block letters. Brother Graham Burwell, who was duly initiated last fall, then a Freshman, promises to be a record breaker on the track the coming season. At the Freshman-Sophomore meet last fall, he stood highest in three events: 100 yard dash, 220 yard dash and broad jump, thus winning a higher score for himself than any other individual competitor. Brother Randall Hampton, an Alumnus of Cornell and formerly an Active member of Alpha Chapter, and who for the past two years has served as Professor of Botany and Horticulture at A. and ML College, Greensboro, N. C.i is now taking a special course in driving and painting in the University. He iias distinguished himself Ly the ease and grace with which he can
draw living fish. Professor Scott, head of the Department of Painting, says that it is rare to find an artist with the ability to handle living fish as Brother Hampton does. Brother Oliver Green- formerly an Active member of Alpha Chapter, is now in Syracuse University studying Forestry- He has become affiliated with Iota as an active member. Brothers Bacon and Saunders, who have labored diligently thru college for several years, have reached the end of the road, and are expecting to pass from beneath the vale of their dear old Alma Mater in June, to try their fortunes in the great wide world, and to "bring home the bacon" for Alpha Phi Alpha in future years. R. H. HAMPTON. o MU—UNIVERSITY O F MINNESOTA Brother R. T. Scott, a graduate of University of Minnesota, '14, was recently united in marriage to Miss Camille Ford, of Minneapolis. The members of Mu Chapter tendered Brother R. T. Scott a stagg party in honor of his last days of bachelorhood at La France Cafe, Minneapolis. Brother Gale P. Hilyer. Mu, was recently admitted to the bar in Minnesota. Attorney Hilyer is now identified with one of the leading white legal firms in the Northwest. Attorney Hilyer is a native of Washington, D. C.. and a graduate of Howard University. After spending six years in the University of Minnesota he decided to make his residence in the Northwest. Mu Chapter points with much pride to the achievement of Brother Hilyer, who was its former president. Brother R. J. C. Brown can still remember the name Chicago. Mu Chapter, tho much reduced in respect to numbers, still hopes to have a Chapter house within the year. R. W. CANNON. o XI—WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY The team which will represent Wil"
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berforce in the Intercollegiate debate with Lincoln April 30 is composed of Alpha men. They are Brothers A. Simpson, H. Sheppard and C. Spivey. At a recent initiation two men were made by Xi Chapter. Brother E. A. Adams, A. B., a graduate of Biddle University, is a Middler in the Theological Seminary, and Brother R. S. Brown is a senior of that department. Both are of true Alpha calibre. Xi Chapter will lose three brethren by graduation in June. Brother A. Simpson, our president, and Brother E. Taylor get their degrees from the college. while Brother R. S. Brown finishes his course in Theology. Dr. Darnell, a thriving and progressive physician of Xenia, Ohio, has become an Honorary brother of Xi. Preparations for our annual banquet are being made from day to day. It is our intention to make this event. which will be given in the first part of May. one of the classiest in the history of Wilberforce. It is a suggestion from Xi that all songs of general interest to the Fraternity be printed in booklet form for distribution in the various chapters. L. A.McGEE. 0
PIâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;WESTERN R E S E R V E S. A. S.
AND C.
Brother Lyndon Hoffman Caldwell, of Iota Chapter, Syracuse, scored a decided hit at Saint John's A. M. E. Church on the evening of Monday. April 19. Brother Hoffman is a pianist of celebrated ability. Brother Ouinn Montgomery, a Freshman at Case School of Applied Science, was one of the best guards on his class basketball team. He was instrumental in helping his team win the interclass championship at Case. In a recent issue of the "Case Tech," the weekly paper of the C. S. A. S.. an article unfortunately referred to some well known colored boys of Cleveland in a very offensive manner. When the matter was called to the attention of college president and the editor of the paper, by the president of "Pi," imme-
diate and complete apologies were received by us from both parties. We believe that all matters of this kind should be handled in a prompt and decided manner. We are about to initiate several Honorary members into our local Chapter. A. G. EVANS. o R H O CHAPTER University of Pennsylvania and Mediico Chirurgical College. Through inadvertence, the news of the Rho Chapter was omitted in the February jssue of The Sphinx hence we crave the indulgence of a little more space. We are glad to report that since the last convention, we have added six members, whose initiation occurred January 30. So that we now number 22. On February 7th, a very inspiring sermon was preached to the Chapter by the Rev. Logan, the popular rector of Saint Simon's Episcopal Church. The Reverend lauded the organization, and exhorted us to make it a power for good in Philadelphia. The evening of March 22nd was of real benefit, when the Chapter gave a reception for its new members. The cream of the evening was the discussion, following Brother W. F. Jerrick's address on "Culture." His definition of culture was so rich that I here append same. "Culture is the investment of the surplus of all our attainments for the betterment of humanity." The occasion also gave all of the brothers an opportunity to express their views on Chapter and Fraternity affairs, and our hearts were made glad because of the noble thoughts and high sentiments expressed. Brother C. V. Freeman, affiiliated Alumnus member from Mu Chapter, is taking a course at the Philadelphia College of Pedagogy. Brother G. E. Robinson. M. D.. has been appointed to the staff of the Douglas Hospital. It is a pleasure to report that Brother W. C. Redd, chairman of the executive committee, is doing good work as a Sunday School teacher at I the Sunday Morning Breakfast Associa-
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tion. This is an institution supported entirely by charity, and represents about 1500 men of every clime and raceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; the poor unfortunates of society. Brother Redd is to be congratulated for his spirit of self-sacrifice, and the Rho Chapter endorses his work. We are glad to report that the "signs are not wanting," that we will have a Chapter house soon. We have a fine proposition under consideration now, and we are sanguine that by next school year, we shall be the happy possessor of a fine Chapter house. We take this opportunity , Brother Editor-in-Chief, to congratulate you on your good efforts as exhibited by the 'February issue of The Sphinx. We shall endeavor to join with the other Chapters in assisting you in your efforts for a Greater Sphinx. T H E O . T. NICHOLS. o PERSONALS
called to the pastorate of the Friendship Baptist Church, Lillie, La., and will be effectively connected with Homer Industrial and Bible Training Institute at Homer, La... Brother C. M. Cain, Mu Alumnus, had the honor of acting as proxy fo" Dean Johnson as a representative of Lincoln University at the annual meeting of the Colored Intercollegiate Athletic Association, which convened at Va. Union Saturday, April 24th. All the representatives to this meeting are faculty members and Dean Johnson is secretary-treasurer of the Association. This office Brother Cain filled creditably. He was the guest of the Editor-in-Chief. Brother R. C. Giles, Alpha Alumnus, is the first Negro student to reach the Senior class at Cornell University College of Medicine. This has been done in the face of requests for his resignation, unlimited prejudice, and numerous obstacles on account of his color. 0
Brother H. Binga Dismond, Theta, continues to smash records on the cinder path. His most recent feat was at Purdue, Lafayette. Ind. A colored weekly says: But the greatest of all was the work of H. Binga Dismond, who ran the quarter in 54125, not only winning with ease but setting a new record at Purdue and lowering the one held by Davenport, the former star of all quarter-milers at the University of Chicago. Brother Edward M. A. Chandler. Beta Alumnus, A. B. Howard, A. M., Clark University, has recently won a $300.00 fellowship in chemistry at the University of Illinois. Brother Chandler begins his work for a doctorate in chemistry in September. Brother W. T. B. Williams, of Hampton, Va., an Honorary member of Gamma, was fraternally entertained recently while at Tuskegee by the brothers there. Gamma extends her appreciation to them for their hospitality. Brother H. C. Collins, Alumnus of Mu, is at Oberlin. Brother H. A. Rogers, Gamma, A. B., Leland University, and a Senior in the seminary of Va. Union- has been
Associate Editors will, in the future, be more careful with their articles. Rhetorical and orthographical corrections are consuming unnecessary time on the part of the proof readers. Also use some form of legal size paper, and write on one side only, thus saving a recopying. 0
Associate Editors will please send their Chapter's news for the 3rd edition to this office by October 1st. Newly elected Associate Editors will govern themselves accordingly. Don't forget, October 1st. o April 1st has passed. What about your tax? 0
Beta loses 14 members by graduation in June.
Stephen Lane Folger OFFICIAL J E W E L E R to Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. 180 Broadway, N e w York ^ g ^ C l u b & College Pins & Rings.