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THE SPHINX
O F A L P H A PHI A L P H A . Tohe Official O r g a n of TSfie A l p h a Phi Alpha Fraternity. VOL.1
D E C E M B E R , 1915.
NO. 4
Beta Chapter House's Comfortable and Spacious Dining Room. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.
.. TO THE ALUMNI OF BETA .. CHAPTER For the past three years Beta Chapter has leased a twelve-room house, but the time has come when Beta must own a HOME. The active members after paying their annual assessments for the maintenance of the house, are unable to lay aside sufficient funds for an initial payment. The Alumni must "help. In order to .create a fund for this purpose the Alumni of 1915—fourteen in number—organized and adopted the following plan to which they pledged their support. This is a proposition that calls for support by all Beta men. Only a small sum is asked for yearly. You can easily afford it. We plead with you to support this. Read the rules of organization carefully and see how wisely your contribution will be guarded. The funds will probably be invested in a building and loan
association, so that there will be no risk. We again plead for your support. Yours for a Beta Home, Chas. H. Garvin, M. D., Chairmnn James W. Parker, M. D., SecretarySec. Geo. W. Cook, Treasurer, Howard University Howard H. Long, Secretary for Class 1915.
CONSTITUTION AND " OF THE BETA HOME ARTICLE
I.
BY-LAWS FUND.
NAME.
The fund shall he known ax The Beta Home Fund. ARTICLE
II.
OBJECT.
The Beta Home Fund shall be created for the purpose of purchasing a home
THE SPHINX
Page Two ARTICLE
for Beta Chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.
VI.
ELECTION.
1. The Board of Governors shall have power to elect its own members and officers. except Class Secretaries as herein The Membership of the Beta Home provided (Article V.).' 2. All members and officers of the Fund shall consist of all alumni, honorary or non-resident members of Beta Chapter Board of Governors shall hold office for •Who annually subscribe five dollars five (5) years, except ('lass Secrctaric;, ($5.00). This amount becomes due the whose offices shall be permanent. 3. All nominations for the three first day of January of each year and shall be paid to . the Secretary of the general members of the Board of officers shall be sent to the Secretary by NovemBoard of Governors. ber first of the year of election. The ARTICLE IV. ADMINISTRATION. Secretary shall send to each member of the Board by December first of the yet**The Beta Home Fund shall be adminis- of election all nominations. a. All votes must be returned to the tered by a Board of Governors, which shall consist of three general members Secretary within ten days. b. The member or members receiving and one member elected by each year's' alumni of Beta Chapter, who become the highest number of votes shall be declared elected. members of the Fund. c. Any member of Beta Home fund can send in nominations. d. Vacancies occurring shall be filled ARTICLE V. OFFICERS. by an appointee made by the Chairmen and approved by the Board. The officers of the Board of Governors ARTICLE VII. AMENDMENTS. shall be a Chairman, a Secretary, a Treasurer and a Class Secretary. . Intendments to these rules can be made 2. It shall be the duty of the Chairman to direct the work of the Board and at any time by a three-fourths vote of to execute its laws. He shall sign all the Board, provided the amendment has been submitted to each member of the orders upon the Treasurer. 3. It shall be the duty of the Secre- Board. tary to keep a record of all transactions; BY-LAWS. to receive all moneys of the Fund and transmit same to the Treasurer; to sign T. No moneys shall be paid out or all orders upon the Treasurer, and to perform all other duties usually per- invested except by three-fourths vote of the Board of Governors. formed by such. 2. All matters of importance to the 4. Ft shall be the duty of the Treasurer to receive and distribute upon proper Board shall be referred to the Chairman order all moneys of the Fund He shall who shall instruct the Secretary to subinvest moneys as the Board of Governors mit in proper form to the members of the Board for consideration. shall direct. 3, All financial reports shall be audited 5. It shall be the duty of each "Class Secretary" to keep in touch ?vith the by two members of the Fund who are alumni of the Chapter who arc members not members of the Board of Governors of his class and urge their support to said members to be appointed by the the Fund, and to make reports semi- Chairman of the Board of Governors. annually to the Secretary of the Board, of Governors. Let every delegate and brother who 6. Each officer shall make an annual is going to Pittsburgh read Omicror.'s report in writing to the Chairman of the ARTICLE
III.
MEMBERSHIP.
Board, who shall publish the same.
letter.
THE SPHINX ALMOST HERE. Once more thru-out the country the .hearts of Alpha Phi Alpha men are made to beat faster because the time is rapidly approaching for the Eighth Convention of our fraternity. These conventions have stimulated new interest with respect to our fratei • nity and those whose privileges have been to attend them, have gone away re-invigorated and re-consecrated to tlit idea of upholding the standards of tht fraternity and bringing all the honor and renown possible to rest upon her fair brow. The spirit manifested at our conventions cannot be reproduced, tho the delegates endeavor earnestly to inculcate in their several chapters that which it has been their pleasure to imbibe at the con vention. Since this is a condition, one can easily see how much he would be benefited should he receive first-hand that spirit manifested at our convention. We oft-times preach extensively concerning service. What is service but self-sacrifice? Therefore, if you would be of service to the fraternity, which holds a cherished position in your heart. deny yourself to a certain extent and resolve at all cost to be present, and you will be thrice blessed. We look for the delegates, but we need others to make of the occasion the success that we wish. For instance. The Sphinx has stood gazing over the Libyan sands, for years. To make of that statue a master-piece was not a work of one hand but the work of many hands. So with our convention. To make of it a success will not be the work of a few hands, but of many. Come to the convention and hear and meet with those Alumni members who have achieved in every way a certain measure of success. Come and learn of those Alumni members who can be seen, leaders of the common hord, and acknowledged leaders in a particular sphere, who have enjoyed and participated in the fraternal relation so dear and near to every one. Here's hoping to see you in Pittsburgh December 29th, 30th, 31st. Abram L. Simpson.
Page Three D U T I F U L SONS. The greatest problem that confronts the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity todav is that of holding the active interest of each brother after he has passed into the Alumni ranks. The seriousness of this question is one that we have all realized, but not yet set about to handle. To be sure, each loyal brother feels strongly those ties and happy associations which bind him to his chapter. When once removed, however, from the direct comradeship of " his brothers. whether buried in some remote section of the South, or absorbed in the busy life of a big city, there is usually on hiÂŤ part a diminution of active interest rather than a healthy increase. This fact may be witnessed by the wofully small number of Alumni brothers who meet their annual financial fraternal obligations. There are some readily seen causes for this condition. The fact of a shifting of interest from the college to the world of practical affairs is one. The small part that the Alumni play in administration and legislation is anothe-. Two years ago we launched The Sphinx, designed for * the purpose of r e a c h i n g each brother, especially the Alumni, and focusing attention on our common problems. The Sphinx has succeeded wonderfully well. The next progressive step, however is in order. The fraternity needs a permanent central bureau where Oiir records may be kept, and the location and progress of each brother may b* tabulated by means of the most modern card index system. Oiir fraternity, if it is to be efficient, will, in the next five years, need an executive secretary, who can give all of his time to the work. In the face of these needs, there stands that ubiquitous question of funds. Here is where the Alumni can help. They can heln. first, by meeting their obligations. Our fraternity is now nearlv eisrht vears old. Alumni brothers are building up for themselves good reputations and creditable incomes, and in some cases. handsome ones. Those brothers who are able ought to consider seriously the endowment of our central bureau and the accumulation of funds for the en-
Page Four
THE SPHINX
largement of our fraternal activities. Th< as will work—men who know their duty time has come for those of us who are and will do it. At the past three confortunate in money matters to make ventions which I have attended I have provision in our budgets and in our wills heard the President call for reports of for the maintenance and growth of this certain chapters and the delegates from fraternalism. which has meant so much those chapters fail to respond, absent, to us. An active and conscientious inter out, "socializing," a reproach to himself est, cognizant of our needs, is the basis a deceiver of his chapter and a near of our progress. Action of some tangi- disgrace to the fraternity. ble kind will back up the right kind of Brothers, select the right kind of dele interest. gates—the best you have. Give then As the years roll on, the Alpha Phi definite instruction what to do as near Alpha fraternity calls her ranks to the as you can, and above all, tell them that harvest. the convention is a place of work with All dutiful sons will accept her chal- "a good time" as a side issue. lenge to action. Brothers, I am ashamed, (I write this W. N. Col son. with reluctance), of the conduct of some of the brothers who come here for vacao tion. Details need not be gone into here, but it is quite enough to say that Dear Brothers: we, who are striving to let our light As the Annual Convention draws near shine, although in the majority, feel to which we all look with a great deal keenly the harsh criticism caused bv the of pleasure, I desire to call to your at- misconduct of these brothers. This tention one or two things which I deem however, only serves to bring home to advisable and which I sincerely believe us the fact that we are to be very careful wlould be a great help to Alpha Phi in the selection of men to bring into our Alpha as a whole, were they adopted. brotherhood. In such cases, personal All must agree with me that Alpha Phi feeling must be put aside and selection Alpha is not a perfect organization, but made squarely upon merit, if we wish our you will readily admit that it is making organization to prosper. rapid strides towards this end, even Now, I have long since felt that wc though hampered by many difficulties To verify this, one has but to trace the are somewhat narrow in this fact that history of the fraternity. The sacred we only invite the ladies of the city in trust falls upon us who are members to which we hold our Convention to our do all we can as individuals and as Annual Reception. In my opinion—and Chapters, both in public and private life, I am sure others feel the same way- • to intensify in ourselves, to exempli fv it would be far better to invite the and to extend the principles upon which leading people of both sexes. I believe Alpha Phi Alpha is founded and to this would leave a better feeling towards which we have subscribed with an oath. us. I believe also, that a public session I direct your attention first of all to of the Convention, at which such topics something you have heard over and as might be of interest to the public and often, but it cannot be over emphasized: to our interest for them to know would This is the selection and instruction of be discussed, would go a long way in delegtes. I mention "selection" and dispelling the uncertainty which some "instruction" because one is just as im- hold about us. portant as the other. We select but fail I simply suggest these things, hoping to instruct, hence in many cases the several chapters will take them up, disdelegate leaves without anything definite cuss them, and let the General Convention in his mind as to what he is to do or know through your delegates your desay at the convention that might help cision. the fraternity. Each Chapter should Tn conclusion let me say that, if life send its full quota of delegates and last. I shall be present when President Brothers see to it that such men are sent Callis calls the Eighth Annual Convert
Page Five
THE SPHINX tion to order at Pittsburgh on December 29th, 1915. Fraternally yours, C. M. Cain, "Nu." Atlantic City, N. J. o
ALPHA PHI ALPHA AT TUSKEGEE. As long as Brother George VV. A. Scott, of ÂŁ.ta remains at Tuskegee to tel the story of the memorable conventions held at Philadelphia and New York, there will always remain a feeling oi respect for the labors of the pioneers. Brother Scott has long since been recognized as the leader of Alpha Phi Alpha at Tuskegee; for his experiences with the fraternity during the earlier days. coupled with his constant zeal for the cause, make him a valuable asset, not only to the local group, but also to the General Organization. The Brethren at Tuskegee are working to keep alive the grand old principles which have made possible the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity of 1915. Brother Wilbert R. Howell of Kappa has given excellent service in the Division of English ; his work for the present is in History and Economics. The extension of the work in Commercial Geography is to be largely attributed to the efforts of Brother George W. A. Scott, Brother Nelson D. Ricks, the faithful representative of Mu, and Brother Henry Boger of Kappa are making much of their op portunity in building up a strong Agricultural department at Tuskegee. Too much cannot be said of Brother James A. Dunn, of Kappa, assistant in the Division of Architectural and Mechanical Drawing. The group can always find ? cheerful welcome around Brother Dunn's fireside. Mrs. Dunn and little Miss Dunn deserve a large share of our thanks, for we know that our well-meaning Brother would assume the proportions of the "little men" were he deprive 1 of such blessings. Brother Charles E Burch of Xi has recently become a member of the Academic Faculty of the Institute. The brethren have done much to make his work pleasant.
Within a few days the Eighth Annual Convention will be in session at Pittsburgh. It is our hope that wise and careful legislation will characterize our meetings and that the bonds of brotherhood and the principles of Alpha Phi Alpha will be greatly strengthened. Let us never lose sight of those mighty moral and spiritual forces upon which our Fraternity is founded. Fraternally yours, Charles Eaton Burch. Brothers, Greetings: It has often been suggested, and with much truth, that the inactivity and apparent lack of.interest on the part of our Alumni, constitute one of the main hinderances to the rapid growth and development of our Fraternity. The question then naturally presents itself,, why should this state of affairs exist? Surely we are not adherents to Adam Smith's policy of "Laissez-faire." Men who win in this day and time are those who dare to face the keen competition of a hard cruel world; those who plan and direct their efforts to the accomplishment of some definite end, What reason can be assigned why we have not an Alumni Chapter in each of the larger Eastern and Middle West cities? The Brothers are in the various cities engaged in their respective professions. Some kind Brother must assume the responsibility and get them in line for work. Now is the time to awaken jn each Alumnus a new interest and quicken in him a sense of his duty and the obligation which he owes to the Fraternity. It is only as we fully realize our duty to the Fraternity that it can accomplish the end for which it is designed. It is just and equitable that the main support for Alpha P h i ' Alpha should come from our Alumni, while as a. matter of fact, the Fraternity is almost wholly run and supported by the undergraduates. While we undergraduates. will admit that the road for the first few vears is rough and rugged for our Alumni Brothers who are out in life yet your experience as an undergraduate will compel you to agree with us that (Continued on Pare Seven.)
THE SPHINX
Page Six
The Sphinx Published Quarterly by the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Printed at Virginia Union University, Richmond, Virginia. EDITORIAL S T A F F Editor-in-Chief - - Lucius L. McGee Associate Editor in Each Chapter. BUSINESS STAFF T H E PRINTING COMMITTEE
Editor-in-Chief, Chairman C. S. Johnson (Gamma) H. C. Stratton (Beta) Subscription
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- $1.00 per year
(This publication is intended for members of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity only.) Address
all
communications Editor-in-Chief
to
the
DIRECTORY H. A. Callis, President, 209 Sheridan Road, Chicago, 111. A. L. Simpson, Vice-President, Morris Brown University, Atlanta, Ga. H. H. Long, Secretary, 204 Chandler St., Worcester, Mass. S. D. Sparks, Treasurer, 608 Fuller St., Ann Arbor, Mich. L. L. McGee, Editor-in-Chief, of The Sphinx, Va. Union University, Richmond, Va. G. B. Kelly, Chairman Alumni Committee, 1 Thirteenth Street, Upper Troy, N. Y. DECEMBER, 1915.
EDITORIAL. Brothers, we have come to our las edition of The Sphinx this year According to the mandates of thGeneral Organization at the Seventl Annual Convention, we have now pub lished our four (4) editions. Am altho they-have not always come out on
time, the editor feels that the fault is not upon his shoulders. In the editorial of the first edition tlii.i question was asked: "Is the Sphinx keeping alive the true and tried Spirit of our Alumni and forming a communicating cell between them and their .respective chapters?'' At that time I refrained from answering that question But nowl I think it is safe to say that, with the help of the Associate-Editors, something has been accomplished along that line. From time to time suggestions have come to this office and have been fraternally received and given due consideration. However, chapter correspondence and immediate replies to official letters sent from this office to various Alumni have not been fairly dealt with at times. Often such has caused inexcusable delay. For instance, you will see that some chapters have not had a single letter published in The Sphinx â&#x20AC;˘this year, and others only one. Of course all this could have been avoided But since it did happen, all must be well anyway, and we are still the same true brothers in Alpha Phi Alpha. I want to thank each Associate-Editor for his aid and support. I further extend much congratulation to the various brothers who, when called upon, have complied with such mas'.rful and spirit-arousing articles. Without their co-operation J could not nave made much advance. I zrA largely indebted to the E^Edi'.or and the Business Manager for *'ie information and advice they have given me, especially the Ex-Editor whose support has been unending. So this edition closes the year's work We have done what we could. At all times all may not have been pleased; all may not have received your copy; remember that in your latter complaint you failed to notify us as to your address The work of the year you have: encouch your opinion in your reports with recon:-
THE SPHINX mendation to better. Bring them to the Convention and convince the delegates and officers of the validity of the same.
O N TO PITTSBURGH." Every chapter has selected its dele gates and in a few days these will be journeying toward Pittsburgh for th( Eighth Annual Convention, Decembci 29, 30 and 31. But probably sonn. admonition to both, chapters and dele gates is not out of place just here. To the Chapter: Elsewhere in this edition you will find; in a contributed article these two words "selection" and "instruction.' The writer thereof put some emphasis on the instruction side; and rightly so Herein lies a very important matter Delegates are to represent the chapters. Therefore each chapter should instruct its delegates along certain general lines For instance, each chapter should have centered on something which it has worked out in fine, and thinks is worthy of adoption, and which it, thru its dele gates, is going to recommend to the General Convention. Each chaptei should be firm on one side or the other of important questions which are certaii to come up in the Convention, and instruct its delegates to vote accordingly This will help to keep politics out of tht Convention. To the Delegates: You are being sent to the Conventior not for Christmas holidays, pleasure, not for fun and frolic. Your chapter is sacrificing its means to be representei and is entrusting its honor and powei in your hands. It is therefore urgentl} necessary that you be on time at every session and remain thru it. East yeat our meetings in the morning were called
Page Seven for 9:00 o'clock, and yet sometimes al 10:00 o'clock there were not ten delegates to answer to roll call. Consequently we were compelled to cut short some of the program so well planned by Theta, and what is more, our last hours weve so crowded that we hardly knew where we were. All entirely uncalled for. Again, have your report ready and in the proper form when it is called for; and remember that "activity" is the slogan of the Convention in session. Every delegate as well as some few visiting brothers will be named on some committee. When it comes time for you to meet, don't be absent, but be at your post. This is the only way to have a successful Convention. As to the social side,Omicron has arranged that, so don't rearrange it please. On to Pittsburgh! On to Pittsburgh!
GREETINGS.
(Continued from fifth page.) our course is no less rocky and that courage, fortitude, and incessant struggle are the virtues which will eventually enable us to successfully stem the tide of collegiate difficulties and anchor safely in the haven of professional calm and prosperity. Alumni, let us have your support and hearty co-operation to make Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity one that is far-reaching in its influence for good. The Brothers in Detroit are holding their own. Brother Chas. A. Roxborough, Honorary Bpsilon and Detroit College of Law '14 has become known as Detroit's most popular and successful young lawyer. He now selects his cast s and the older lawyers here wonder how He does it. There's a reasonâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Alpha Phi Alpha. Brother E. T. Beck, M. D.. U. of M., Honorary Bpsilon has one of the largest practices in the city. Doctors J. H. Alexander, P. B. Gamble, J. L. Henderson, A. B. Persley, all
Page Eight from Bpsilon are practicing successfully in Detroit. Brothers C. H. Mahoney and L. E. Johnson, attorneys, Bpsilon, have built up a large practice among Detroiters as law partners. Brother B. H. Junior, Beta '09, D. C. L. '13, in addition to His law practice is conducting successfully at 300 Antoine Street, a Ladies' and Gents' Furnishing Store. "The Junior System" is well-known around Detroit. Brother W. A. Dobson, Bpsilon, is Detroit's well-known pharmaceutical candy maker. Brother C. L. Rowlette, Gamma-Beta successfully passed the Michigan State Bar Examination recently and has his office at 276 Antoine Street, where Brother C. H. Lewis, Gamma, is also located. Brother Cornelius Henderson Bpsilon, U. of M., a Civil Engineer, i associated with Wakerville Dredging Co Brother J. W. Moore, Xi, is a Junior in 1A C. of Medicine. Brothers N. D Oyerinde A. B. B. D., and A. A. Button, Gamma, are here preparing to resume their studies next summer. Brothers Ulysses Cary and J. H. Hilburn are proprietors of Excelsior Pharmacy, corner Antoine and Columbia Streets These brothers are known here as "The Chemists" who can compound prescriptions exactly as the doctor orders. A Brother can always be found at the Excelsior Pharmacy. Brother J. P. Rod gers, Law '15 U. of M., was recently married to Miss Jackson, one of Detroit'.; finest young ladies. He will return tÂŤ Alabama to practice. We wish him a' the good luck. Brother H. B. Taliaferro, Union '15 is a Senior in D. C. L. One admirable feature about Alpln Phi Alpha men is that they always work together in their business and profes sional undertakings. This is the real Alpha Phi Alpha spirit. I wish to congratulate the Editor-inchief and his staff for the gener 1 improvement on the last issue of The Sphinx, our official organ. This in itself should stimulate in every Alumni and undergraduate a desire to exert every influence possible to make each year of the history of our Fraternity grander
THE SPHINX and nobler than the preceding. H. B. Taliaferro. o
CHAPTER LETTERS ALPHAâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;CORNELL
UNIVERSITY.
On the night of November 27th, ten men took the oath of allegiance to support, both mentally and physically, the ideals of Alpha Phi Alpha. The initiation was one of the most successful ones ever held by this chapter. It may rightly be said that the success was due to the fraternal spirit existing between the brothers prior to the event, the manifestation of intense interest and manly execution of assigned duties coupled with the able assistance given by Brother R. H. Ogle, one of the founders of the organization. The initates were: Albert Irving Cassell, Victor Reginald Daly, Frank Guignon Downing, Abram John Jackson, Jr., Clarence Arthur McCoy, Ray B. Potter Waller, Owen Meredith Waller, William H. Seabrook, Harry Ray Wooten, Geo. H. Fletcher, Hon., Rev. Thos. H. Amos, Hon. On the nig(ht following the "Neophites" were tendered one of the best banquets the chapter has ever had. The banquet was held at the residence of Rfrs. Collier, a woman who saw the birth of this organization, and who has always been a staunch and loyal supporter. The following program was rendered: Thos. H. Amos, Jr Toastmaster Welcome Moses H. Dorsey Response Harry R. Wooten "Our Ideals" Dudly A. Johnson Alpha Phi Alpha J. R. Westheimer Reminiscences C. H. Chappman Stunt A. P. Chippey Presentation to Mrs. Collier by P. T. Rayford. "Prattles." Just before the beginning of the speeches a telegram was received from
THE SPHINX
Page Nine
Rev. Thos. H. Amos, Honorary member wishing the brothers a well spent evening. Brother W. H. Seabrook is a member of the Freshman Track team and has already received his numerals. He is one of the two Negro students represented as such, to receive numerals, the other being Brother J. C. Thomas, Jr. Brother V. R. Daly is a member of the Freshman Cross Country team. Brother G. H. Fletcher is one of rthaca's leading citizens, and an ardent supporter of Alpha Phi Alpha. He will be a great asset to the chapter in many ways. Many of the new brothers are already obtaining orders for their pins. A. P. Chippey. o
BETA—HOWARD UNIVERSITY. "Beta Calendar." It appears that Beta will have another exceptionally brilliant year. The boys left the mark with the crack of the gun and the Alpha Phi Alpha spirit has been running well ever since. September 22.—College Department opened and found thirteen members located in their respective rooms of the Chapter House. We are especially glad to have Brother Robinson, of Bpsilop Brother Carter, of Alpha, and Brother Lander, of Nu' with us this year, all of whom have caught the Beta spirit and are soon to affiliate. September 26.—Brother Henry Collins, an Alumnus of Nu, and former football star of Lincoln, visited Beta. He is now teaching at Kittrell College. October 1.—Dining room was opened at the Chapter House with sixteen regular boarders. The boys are especially pleased wth the efficiency of the new steward, Brother Stratton. The Medical School opened with eleven Alpha Phi Alpha men in the Freshman class. Thev have elected Brother J. B. Walker as president. The Law School also opened and our varsity debater of last year Brother D. Malone, was elected president of the Junior class. The Senior class of the College of Arts and Sciences elected Brother L. S. Curtis as president.
October 3.—We had our first regular Sunday morning meeting at 9 o'clock at which time our Alumni brother, Rev E. B. Smith, who is now pastor of Lincoln Temple Church, took charge of the meeting. In addition to Brothers Harris, Garvin and McRay, who were already internes at Freedman's Hospital since June. Brothers James Parker and Edwin H. Lee began their terms as internes on this date. Brothers Thomas C. Brown and Martin L. Crawford are internes at Kansas City General Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri. The only members of the 1Q15 Medical class who have taken the District Board. are Brothers Harris and Garvin, and both passed. Brother McKelvie passed the Georgia State Board a few weeks, ago. October 6.—We had our first regidar meeting; twenty-five brothers were present to answer to the roll call. October 11.—We were very agreeably surprised to have Brother "Pluto" Lungsford stop with us for a few days, while on his way South to convalesce, after his illness during the summer. October 16.—Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and Delta Sigma Omicron Sorority gave a joint reception in honor of Brother and Mrs. Numa P. G. Adams, who w e e married recently. Brother Adams, an Alumnus of Beta, is assistant professor of Chemistry here at Howard, while his wife is a charter member of Delta Sign a Omicron Sorority. October 18.—The first Athletic Asso ciation meeting of the year was called to order by President Brother J. H. Brooks, at which meeting Brother E. B. Stone was elected manager of the Base Ball Team. October 20.—At this, our second regular meeting, it was decided to let the first eighteen who had paid, of the man,clamoring to room in "The House," be permanentlv situated in the various rooms of "The House." October 30.—Union was defeated by Howard's football team. There are seven Alpha P/hi Alpha men on thei varsity team, with Brother Beaman as captain. November 6.—Brother Clarence White
Page Ten an Alumnus of Beta dined with us and pave a Violin Recital at the Howard Theatre on this evening. Brothers Daniel Hill and Dorsey of Nu visited us for the week-end on their way back to school, after winning in debate at the Philadelphia Y. M. C. A. November 17.—Brother C. B. Curley formerly of Beta was present at our third regular meeting and stayed with us three days, while attending a teacher's convention in the city. Brothcr Curley has been elected Assistant Principal of Manassas Institute. Brother J. H. Hayes, formerly of Gamma, was also present at this meeting and expressed his intentions of affiliating with Beta. Brother Shelton of Nu visited us for . a few days. November 23.—The latest initiates presented "The House" with a beautiful hall rack. Brother Garvin presented a desk, a tennis net for the court and some chairs Brothers Parker and McKelvie gave a lamp for the reading room. A beautiful filing cabinet was donated to the Chapter by a few Beta enthusiasts. This cabinet is made of Tiard oak wood and is o.f sufficient size to contain not only our chapter records but also those of the general organization. Our recent Alumni members have compiled a card catalogue to remain permanently in the Chapter House. It contains the names and addresses of all Beta's active and other members. Through the efforts of Brother Milburn, we were presented with a large group picture of the Beta •members as a Xmas gift from Mr. Warren, our official photographer. For all these gifts we are exceedingly grateful. Dir. Hudson Oliver, who is having such wonderful success with his practice in Asburv Park, N. J., motored to Washington in his new car and was a frequent visitor of Beta, his old home. 'November 25.—The Howard-Hampton game, although a defeat for Howard, was an exceptional example of true sportsmanship. The Alpha Phi Alpha bovs played their usual good game and made a creditable showing for themselves and their Fraternitv. Professor Wesley. (Zeta Alumni)
THE SPHINX now teacher of French at Howarr', deserted the bachelors on this day of Thanksgiving. Dr. Gene Allen, (Beta Alumni), an ex-captain of Howard's football team, now a practicing dentist in Philadelphia visited us while in this city. November 26.—The usual Thanksgiving Formal Dance was held in the Chapter House on this evening. This year's dance was indeed the most elaborate affair of its kind ever held at "The House." There were sixty-seven present, including three chaperons. Flowers, taxicabs, stiff hats and white kid gloves w-e^e very much in evidence on this occasion. While the gentlemen were showing the ladies our home, the parlors were being cleared of furniture for the dance. At 11:30 P. M. refreshments were served by four liverymen in the various rooms of ".The House." At 12:30 A. M. the guests again returned to the parlors for another hour of dancing. The success of the whek affair is due to the efficient management of Brother Beaman and the excellent co-operation of the brothers. The memories of this function will linger long with Beta men. November 30.—At this, the fourth regular meeting. Brothers H e r m n n Moore and Pollard were. elected delegates to the Annual Convention at Pittsburgh. We received a letter from Brother Tavernier—who is studying law at Boston University—announcing the intention of the graduate members about Boston of applying to the general organization for the organization of a chapter in Boston. We also have received several communications from Brother Long, who is studying at Clark University. Brothers Crampton and Clair are studying at Boston University School of Theology. o GAMMA—VA. U N I O N UNIV.
%
Gamma happenings since the last communication have been of exceeding interest.. First, the chapter was sur-
Page Eleven
THE SPHINX charged with the usual energy found pjresent prior to an initiation. Every brother saw to it well that every regulation was executed by the five goats seeking admission into the pale of Alpha Phi Alpha. As is our custom, on the night before the initiaton. a pre-initiatory supper was given in the University dining room, Friday evening, December 3rd. At this gathering, fear inspiring songs with appropriate threats of direful happenings were sung to each goat. Besides the active members of the chapter, the following brothers were present: Brothers Dr. J. E. Jones and Professor J. W. Barco, Honorary; Brothers Professors W. N. Colson, J. M. Sampson, G. W. Buckner, C. A. Lindsay, V. E Daniel, Alumni; Brother J. M. Saunders Iota Alumnus. The Initiation, as 'such, took place Saturday night, December 4th. After being conducted over the last jaunt of terror, and having received the last impression of true Alpha Phi Alphaism, the following men were hailed as brothers: T. D. Canada. '10. N. T. Harris, '18 T. W. Johnson, '18, R. J. Tones, '14 and J. H. tolson, '19. During the past month, Com ma has been favored with visits from Brother Anderson of Zcta Chapter and Brother Tin con of Iota. Midst the arduous duties of class room work, everv Gamma man is making his influence felt in the student activities of the University. Below" arc given some of the positions entrusted to Alpha Phi \1nha men: Brother J. S. Johnson is President of the Athletic Association. Brother C. S. Johnson is President of the Unper Classmen's Council. He has also iust completed a successful managership of the department of football He had as his assistant. Brother A. D Manning. Brother W. A. Hall has been elected manager of football for TQI6. He is also our delegate to the Convention. Brother V. D. Johnston is manager of baseball. Brother A. Bayton is President of the College Department and Captain of the
[916 baseball team. Brother U. G. Wilson holds the Presidency of the University Debating Club and of the College Literary Society the Kappi Gamma Chi. The writer is Press Agent and Advertising Manager of all sports for 191516. G. W. Brown. EPSILONâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;UNIV. O F
MICHIGAN
It was with great pleasure that we brothers of Bpsiloii greeted the last issue of The Sphinx. Altho it was somewhat late, it was the concensus of opinion among the brothers that the character and signify of its make-up offset its tardiness. We have entered into our work this year with the true Alpha Phi Alpha spirit. Wishing our chapter to stand foremost in all respects, we began the year by refurnishing our living room and placing better furniture in the rooms. at a cost of several hundred dollars to us. Our living room now contains a new table, a new set of chairs, a settee. an upright piano, and a victrola. Brother Oscar W. Baker, a prominent lawyer of Bay City, Michigan, exemplified to us that our graduates really have the cause of the fraternity at heart by donating to our Chapter House a victrola of the one hundred dollar type. Brothers Leon S. Evans, Emmet M Morton. A. A. Taylor, F. P. Raifoiv S. D. Sporks. F. D. Mickey. L. B. Lapslev, D. J. Grimes, J. Asa'White, J. R Crossland, A. L. Evans, A. J. Pope, I. R Mahone, and B. C. Styles have returnc I this vear fully determined to uphold the standard of Alpha Phi Alpha in all respects. Cupid has been very busy in our chapter the last year. Brother D. J. Grimes was married last Mav to Miss Agatha A. Moore. Brother J. Asa White was married last June to Miss Ada White. And on the 24th of November last. Brother J. R. Rodgers was married to Miss Leitha Jackson, of Detroit. Michigan. Of our last year's graduates. Brother A. B. Persley, a graduate of the Medical Department, is doing extremely well in
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THE SPHINX
so short a time, in Detroit. He has All chapter's will kindly send the since the 24th of June, built up an ex- names of delegates and visitors to Omitensive practice, and now owns one of the cron's Committee on Rules and Credenlargest and best automobiles owned by tials. as early as possible. any Negro in Detroit. Brother J. P. Rodgers, a graduate of To Delegtes and Visitors1, the law department, has hung out Ills If possible, state the time of your shingle in the city of Montgomery, Ala- train arrival in order to insure the bama, and even now lias enough work presence of an escort from Otnicron. to keep him very busy. The Banquet Pee will be $1.25. Six We are all busy and looking forward group pictures will be takenâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;assessment to a great time when we meet in Pitts- for which will be fifty cents. burgh, in December, at our annual conIt is requested that all kinds of comvention. munications will be directed to the We held our annual freshman ban- Y. M. C. A. Headquarters before the quet on the 24th of October. At that Convention convenes or while il is in time we had with us many of our grad- session. uates, who gladdened us and inspired us Oiuicron extends to all associated with bright and interesting talks. chapters her best wishes for continued Brother J. A. Franklin, who graduated success; and trusts that should she be from medical department in the class of unfortunate in not entertaining another 1914, is practicing at Evergreen, Ala Convention in the near future, she will liama. at least endeavor to bear good tidings Brother Herbert Wiggins, of Brewton and inspiring sentiments to other Alabama, announces the arrival of a Conventions. bouncing baby boy. J. P. Dancy. Brother M. E. Morton, of Lowndes boro, Alabama, announces to us, the 0 addition to his family of a little baby girl. RESOLUTION B. C. Styles. o In order to stimulate interest in our Alumni, and to further explain the OMICRONâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;UNIVERSITY OF purpose of the fraternity, and magnify PITTSBURGH. its true spirit, a decennial fraternity periodical shall be established. In response to the inquiries concerning That it be called the "Alpha Phi the programme of the Eighth Annual Alpha Fraternity." Convention, to be held at the seat of this That it contain a general history, chapter, I wish to announce that in view and names, addresses and photographs of the fact that no definite plans have! of all General Officers, Founders and been received from the Secretary, the Committeemen of the Alpha Phi AlConvention for the time being will be pha Fraternity. modelled after the two previous ones. That it contain in addition a list of Our headquarters will be at the the names and addresses of all memColored Y. M. C. A. Building, 1847 bers of the Fraternity. Center Avenue. Boarding and lodging That each member subscribe two places will be assigned to all officers and dollars ($2.00) to defray expenses of delegates upon their arrival in Pitts- publication. burgh. (Signed) A. L. SIMPSON, All visiting undelegated brothers may L. H. WEAVER. be provided for by communicating with J. H. N. J O N E S . the Chairman of the Reception Committee, Brother A. Di. Stevenson, Y. M This resolution was referred to the C. A. Building. Nominal rates will editor of The Sphinx to be printed in prevail. each issue until the next convention.