DR. RAYFORD W. LOGAN DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION "On The Occasion of Out Fifth Anniversary of Education for Citizenship, I extend greetings to all Brothers and thanks for their cooperation in making the previous campaigns a significant part of educational activities among Negroes.
EDUCATIONAL
NUMBER
MAY, 1 9 3 8
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, Inc OFFICIAL DIRECTORY General Officers £ ^ i D , ^ J ^ : h a r l e s H - Wesley, Howard University, Washington, D. C. W Greene ^^J}^^^1^-^101^ - 3 0 4 Griffin St., N. W., Atlanta, Ga. raCCTroVTaMgjJMHT--Sl«to«y A. Jones, Jr., 3456 S. State St., Chicago, 111. FaTTaw R Allen ?^™?nnB™J™I' < 3 3 7 W e s t 1 3 8 t h St., New York City, N. Y. ^ S ™ C E T P R K u m o E ^ - B e r t A - McD°™^ 319 East 48th St., Los Angeles, Calif. SECRETARY—Joseph H. B. Evans, 101 S. Street, N. W., Washington, D. C. ^ T ^ F ^ - P e r c i v a l R - P i p e r ' 1 8 0 3 2 Wexford Avenue, Detroit, Michigan. E ^ l 9 ™ F J ? I L S P H I N X ~ L e w i s ° - Swingler, 390V4 Beale Street, Memphis, Tenn. ™ ° J ? T R P F EDUCATION-Rayford W. Logan, Atlanta University, Atlanta, Ga. 0 ; ° * ™ ^ COUNSEL—Theodore M - B e r r ^ 3 0 8 W e s t 5th Street, Cincinnati, Ohio. LAY MEMBERS EXECUTIVE COUNCH-Ferdinand L. Rousseve, 4636 Willow Street, New Orleans, La. Chnstopher M. Roulhac, Jr., 810 East McLemore St., Memphis, Tenn. Walter S. Scott, Jr., 69 North 21st St., Columbus, Ohio. JEWELS—Henry A. Callis, Howard University, Washington, D. C ; Nathaniel A. Murray, 150 You Street, N. W. Washington, D. C ; Vertner W. Tandy, 221 West 139th Street, New York City, N. Y ; George B. Kelly, 1-113th btreet, Troy, New York. 'Charles H. Chapman — "Robert H. Ogle — *James H. Morton — *Deceased. REGIONAL DIRECTORS—Southern Jurisdiction: Charles W. Green, Vice-President; Horace L. Mosely, 1304 First ™ ' iS." u o m u n g ^ a m ; A l a - ' M - G - f e ^ s o n , Citizens Saving & Trust Co., Nashville, Tenn.; James O. Ellis, Atkins High School, Winston-Salem, N. Carolina; Eastern Jurisdiction: Farrow R. Allen, Vice-President; Belford V Lawson, Jr., 200 11th St., N. W., Washington, D. C ; M. A. Allen, 360 William Street, Buffalo, New York; t. Irving (aray, 610 Columbus Avenue, Boston, Mass; Midwestern Jurisdiction: Sidney A. Jones, Jr., Vice President; Louis Schuster, 1433 E. Long Street Columbus, Ohio, Henry J. Richardson, Jr., 57 N. Illinois Ave., Indianapolis Ind.; Sidney R. Williams, 2947 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, Mo.; Western Juridiction; Bert A. McDonald, Vice-President; F. Melvin Payne, 107 N. Greenwood St., Tulsa, Okla.; Jas. A. Chrysler, 2800 Glenam Place, Denver, Colo.; C. P. Johnson, 2700 Flora Street, Dallas,Texas. CHAIRMAN CHAPTER HOUSING COMMISSION-Belford V Lawson, Jr., 2001 11th St., N. W., Washington D C CHAIRMAN. COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC OPINION—Howard H. Long, 1112 Girard St., N. W., Wash., D C CHAIRMAN. COMMITTEE ON STANDARDS-Henry L. Dickason, Bluefield State Teachers College, Bluefield, W. Va.
CHAPTER '' 2
3. 4. 3. 6
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7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13
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14. ••
16.
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00
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University
Ithaca
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thru
ROSTER
o^je^iT " ' ' ' ' : Active membership 19. UPSILON—University of Kansas, Kans. State Teachers College, EmBETA Howard t 7mver«itv W,,«,l,;„,»,~„ T-. <- D cj j „, , P . o n ?' K a n s - Kans. State College of Agriculture & Applied Sciences, g C: P r d Plum mer 1917 Third It N W W I w ? ' P ' l . "?i,¥ct Manhattan Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas; Pres. Author McLendon; C. Sec. A ! ] N W. Wesley Robinson, 3321 Sherman Ave., Herbert Voorhies: R. Sec. James Tribue, 1101 Mississippi St. 20 GAMMA—Virginia Union University, Richmond, Virginia; Pres. Richard ' ^}~(£hil„lJniv,eI?tb **£•?£ gO h i °o ; P r c s - J o h n W ' Ga«"™7; Sec. T Langston; F Sec. Frederick & Lewis; R. Sec France Brinfcley, , . n n "S ' ^ MA- ^r^n ^ ^ \ , T D , O r, , L Virginia Union University * * • *-H1—Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tenn.; Poes. J. B. English, DELTA—University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; INACTIVE „ , fcl S e c / S ' M ' McDew, Jr., 1017—16th Ave. EPSILON—University of Michigan, Ann Arbor Michigan- Pres C F , —University of Pennsylvania, Temple University, Philadelphia, PertnPoole; Sec. Joseph Jenkins. 1103 E Huron Ave sylvania; Pres. Roger F. Gordon, 1530 French St.; Sec. Ernest Smith, ETA ? — Y a l e University, New Haven, Connecticut; Pres. , , I^DMA 'ATDUA IT<« _ . , „ 2 3 S«C. Dr. R. S. Fleming, 216 Dwight St ALPHA ALPHA—University of Cincinnati. Cincinnati College of PharmETA—Columbia University, St. Lawrance, Brooklyn, C. C , St Johns acy. Miami University, Cincinnati, Ohio; Pres. Dr. C. E. Dillard, 514 C lark 2 6 3 1 University, Brooklyn, New York City; Pres. Raymond O. Hatcher, 320 . : S t ; i f ! < : „ P w ' ! V h e < . L - MoodyKemprl Lane; F. Sec. John W. Manhattan Ave.; Sec. Edward N Byas 2 West I20di St r-Ieming, 636 W. 9th St. 2 4 A BET aIla B TTHET A—University of Chicago, Armour Institute, DePaul University, ' & * , Q ^.'?' f * J College, Talladega, Alabama; Pres Prince Lewis Institute, Loyola University, Chicago, Illinois- Pres Albert B Fu^'' Sec. William J. Roberson; C. Sec. Herbert Pegues, Talladega George, Jr., 3231 Vernon Ave.; Sec. William C. Peek, 5533 Perry Ave. . , , T? „ff: r . , . , . . „ . „ ._, „, . , . , 2 5 IOTA—Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York- INACTIVE ' ^1£}?A. GAMMA—Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island; INKAPPA—Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; Pres. Henry' Parks, , , A ? ™ . E ~ £ * d " f J0"?h G ' LeCount, 42 Westminister S^ 2 5 Jr.; Sec. Edwin Williams, 236 E. 11th Ave.; C. Sec. Begagy T. Benton, ' Arr DELTA—University of Southern California, Los Angeles, 474 Taylor Ave "«*agy Demon, California; Pres.8 Bert A. McDonald, 319 E. 48th St.; Sec. Rufus S. MU—University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota; Pres. John R. , , J . " ^ ' voln^ ^,S^ c r ,c • n i- . r* ,-r - „ 2 7 Lawrence, 556 St. Anthony Ave., St. Paul, Minn.; Sec. John M. Patton. ' ^k fd C A ^ ^ V o T ' - F T °c ^l'1"™?? Berkeley, California; Pre.. dw 854 St. Anthony Ave., St. Paul, Minn. f " f . Aubert, 1601 Tyler St.; Sec. Theodore Smith. 2928 Grove R hardson NU—Lincoln University, Lincoln University, Pennsylvania; Pres. Donald ,o l i w A 7CTA m 'f t 1 » 7 Seventh St.. Oakland, Calif.1 2 8 F. Davis; C. Sec. LeRoy Patrick; R. Sec. William Griggs. Lincoln, Uni' p \ „ William V " ¥ ° W V ' r g i m a S ? . t e , ° P ^''^Z"1"1"^.Y^'f ^ versify. fres. William A. Robinson; Sec. Richard D . Hobson, West Va. State XI—Wilberforce University, Wilberforce, Ohio; Pres. A. Joseph Allen; , 0 A'TD'M'A E T A U J I T r* u -J «. , .^, „ Sec. Elbert Rogers, Wilberforce University. ' 2 9 . ALPHA ETA—Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts; INACOMICRON—University of Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Pres. , A I D U A TTJE-TA IT • • r T T , ~ r „ n 3 William K. Leftridge, 235 S. Freetand St. S. S.; Sec. Howard W. Jordan, °' A L P H A , T " g T A — I V " ' v < ! r S 1 ? ' °{,{"^ 1°"* G % ' I o w l : P r e s - B«mara 230 Burgess St. Oross; Sec. W. E. Hebert, Jr., 815 S. Dubuque St. TI , , , r, , ,, . * * • ALPHA IOTA—University of Colorado, Denver, Colorado; Pres. James DT m „ , D rili""^. RTM -£TM U n Jr c ,f , t y ' i o h n S t " " 1 ^V n , , v e r s ^'„ S r JS""/™ Chrysler, 2800 Glenarm PL; Sec. James T. Sims, 2511 Marion St College Baldwin-Wallace College, fierea, Ohio Oberl.n College Oberlin, 32. ALPHA KAPPA—Springfield College, Amherst College. Amherst, Mass., : P mlS n D F Ul r 2 2 E 1 0 0 t h S t ; SeC C1 re L S"° IV n a ? ° , A - c 'ri ' " ' ' - ' "« Springfield, Massachusetts; Sec. Eric Headley, Springfield CoUeg" Sharpe, 4608 Central Ave. S. E. 33. ALPHA MU—Northwestern University. Evanston, IlUnois; Pres. William C RHC1—Graduate Group, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Pres. Dr. W. P. - Py»nt, 1930 Brown Ave.; Sec. Colbert S. Davis. 3 Jerrick, 1843 Christian St.; C. Sec. Dr. O. Wilson Winters, 28 Curren * - ALPHA NU—Iowa State College, Drake University, Des Moines, Iowa, Arcade; F. Sec. Norristown, Pa.; F. Sec. Dr. Percy I. Bowser, 5344 Race Ames, Iowa; Pres. S. M. Riley, Jr.; Sec. Charles P. Howard, 515 MulSt. berry St., Des Moines, Iowa. SIGMA—Harvard University, Cambridge, Mass., Boston University and 3JJ" A H K A rtr^AfcaS"*! F n i v c n " P r ' c M . i I a w " k e . e - Wisconsin; INACTIVE. Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston, Mass.; Pres. Dr. F. Irving ° " £, L y >"MICRON—Johnson C. Smith University, Livingston College. C Un Gray, 610 Columbus Ave.; Sec. Frederick J. Franklin, 34 Wenonah St* fj ' r- c *V? *- 9 h l r 1 j > t t e ' ™°"h Carolina; Pres Earnest N. Roxburry, Mass. Mattison; C. Sec. Eugene A. Adams; F. Sec. James A. Bond, Jr., Johnson T I N n e TM. ^, C. Smith University. u L ~ University of Illinois .Champaign, Illinois; Pres Richard M. 37. ALPHA PI—Louisville Municipal College, Louisville, Kentucky Pres Haskins; Sec. Charles R. Collins; C. Sec. Orestes B. Johnson, 615 S. Perry A. Lively. 3431 W. Hale A v e ; Sec. Vernon E M i i w ' 17^0 Wngnt at. Dumesnile St.
THE SPHINX Official Organ of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc PUBLISHED FEBRUARY, MAY, OCTOBER, and DECEMBER VOLUME 24
MAY, 1938
THE STAFF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF LEWIS O. SWINGLER 390 V2 Beale Avenue Memphis, Tennessee ASSISTANT EDITOR HUGH M. GLOSTER LeMoyne College Memphis, Tennessee WHO'S WHO EDITOR GEORGE B. KELLEY Troy, New York HISTORY EDITOR JAMES B. BROWNING Miners Teachers College Washington, D. C. FRAT FUN EDITOR DR. O. WILSON WINTERS Norristown, Pa. ART EDITORS JAMES D. PARKS Lincoln University Jefferson City, Mo. FERDINAND ROUSSEVE Art Department Xavier University New Orleans, La. HERSHAL C. LATHAM Memphis, Tennessee CONTRIBUTING EDITORS MILTON S. J. WRIGHT Wilberforce University Wilberforce, Ohio WILLIAM H. GRAY Southern University Scotlandville, La. JOSEPH E. COTTON Memphis, Tennessee CLYDE L. COLE Carver Junior High School Tulsa, Oklahoma GRANT W. HAWKINS Indianapolis, Ind. 1939 CONVENTION EDITOR CHARLES L. FRANKLIN New York City, N. Y. CIRCULATION SPENCER SMITH Memphis, Tennessee ADVERTISING JOHN L. BRINKLEY, Jr. Memphis, Tennessee
NUMBER 2
CONTENTS Page Appreciation To Alpha
2
Alpha's Educational Program
3
Regional Director Gets Results
5
Charts Course For Alpha
5
Sight-Seeing Tour In New Orleans
6
Friendship
6
Education Thru Legislation
7
Who's W h o Among The Chapters ___:
8
Hard Knocks Foundation For Career
8
Does The Negro Really Care?
9
Hits And Misses
10
Fraternity Fun
11
Bro. Lane Rounds Out 20 Years In Alpha
12
Coach Keane Makes Fine Record At Ky
12
Book Reviews
13
Four Chapters Unite For Joint Ball
15
1939 Convention Highlights
16
Significant Alpha News
17
Voice Of The Sphinx
18
CHAPTER PICTURES Alpha OmicTon Lambda Chapter Beta Upsilon Chapter
19 23
Beta Theta Chapter G a m m a Chapter
27 31
Advertising ,
:
44
Entered as second class matter at the Post Office in Memphis, Tenn., as issued four times a year in February, May, October, and December, under the Act of March 3, 1879, and accepted for mailing at the second class rates of postage.
Subscription Pric eâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;One Dollar and Fifty Cents Per Year
Page 2
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A ppreciations
May, 1938
To
Alpha
Organizations Acknowledge Alpha's Assistance THE ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF NEGRO LIFE AND HISTORY 1538 Ninth Street. N. W. Washington. D. C. March 1. 1933 Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Office of the Secretary, 101 " S " Street, N. W.. Washington. D. C. Friends:â&#x20AC;&#x201D;
of February 28th, enclosing check for one hundred dollars, representing a contribution from the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity to the National Urban League. My personal thanks accompany the formal acknowledgment, which is enclosed. This evidence of the Fraternity's good-will is a stimulus to our effort to merit your continued confidence. Sincerely yours, EUGENE KINCKLE JONES Executive Secretary.
We have received your contribution of S100. We thank you sincerely for this manifestation of interest in the scientific effort to set forth that the Negro has thought and felt and attempted and accomplished. Your assistance is keenly appreciated here, and what you have given will be judiciously expended to advance this cause of saving and publishing the records of the Negro that the race may not become a negligible factor in the thought of the world. Thanking you again. I am Very truly yours, CARTER G. WOODSON. Director. , _o
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF COLORED PEOPLE 69 Fifth Avenue New York City March 2, 1938 Mr. Joseph H. B. Evans, General Secretary. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, 101 " S " Street. N. W.. Washington, D. C. Dear Mr. Evans: It w a s most encouraging to us here at the National Office to receive your letter of February 28 with its enclosed check of one hundred dollars renewing the contribution of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity to the work of the N. A. A. C. P. The fight for the Anti-Lynching Bill in the Senate w a s a long and expensive one and your contribution will go far toward helping wipe out the deficit incurred in the Anti-Lynching Fund. Our Treasurer's receipt is enclosed. Ever sincerely, WALTER WHITE, Secretary.
SOUTHERN TENANT FARMERS UNION 2527 Broad Street Memphis, Tennessee April 5. 1938 Mr. Joseph H. B. Evans. General Secretary. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity 101 S. Street, N. W. Washington, D. C. Dear Mr. Evans: I regret very much that an earlier acknowledgment and receipt for the contribution of SI00 made by your fraternity has not been sent to you sooner. I have been out of the office lately and consequently much correspondence has been delayed. We are very grateful to the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity for this aid to our work, and feel that it is deeply significant that this organization is giving its attention to problems such a s ours. I am sending some recent union material which may interest you under separate cover. Again thanking you for your help, I am Cordially yours, H. L. MITCHELL. Secretary. NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE 1133 Broadway New York City March 1. 1938 Mr. Joseph H. B. Evans, 101 S. Street. N. W.. Washington. D. C. My dear Mr. Evans: This is to acknowledge with very great thanks your letter
THE INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE OF AFRICAN AFFAIRS Eight West Fortieth Street. New York March 1. 1938 Mr. Joseph H. B. Evans, General Secretary. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, 101 S. Street. N. W., Washington, D. C. Dear Brother Evans: I am today in receipt of your letter of February 28th in which you inclosed a check for $100.00 being the sum voted for The International Committee on African Affairs at the New Orleans Convention of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. I hasten to express to the Fraternity the deep appreciation of my Committee for this significant indication of the Fraternity's confidence in the work which The International Committee on African Affairs has undertaken. In addition, this substantial contribution is of material help and a very real encouragement. I wish further to express personally my own appreciation of this contribution. Fraternally yours. MAX YERGAN, Director.
May, 1938
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Alpha's Educational Program By DR. RAYFORD W. LOGAN Educational Director To all Alpha men, I propose the following pledge: "I pledge myself to become a registered voter as soon as I am eligible; to vote in all elections that are open to me; to work untiringly until Negroes have helped to break down the Fascist one-party system of the South established by the Supreme Court when it authorized the exclusion of Negroes from the Democratic primary." Fraternally yours, RAYFORD W. LOGAN, Director of Education. EDITOR'S NOTES:—In keeping with the theme of this edition as an Educational Number, the convention report of Dr. Rayford W. Logan, Director of Education for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, is herewith presented. It was delivered at the 26th General Convention at New Orleans, La., December, 1937.
HTO: Alpha Phi Alpha, Assembled in its 26th General Convention. I have the honor to submit below my report as director of education foT the period January 1, 1936—December 27, 1937. My conviction has been from the beginning that I should try to do reasonably well certain definite things instead of undertaking a too elaborate program. Consequently, I have not been able to carry through some very helpful suggestions. I wish to thank those brothers who have been sufficiently interested to submit their ideas and to express my regret at not being able to incorporate them into the program of my office. My second conviction has been that we should keep driving ahead on the program already begun. My objectives, since my election at St. Louis in 1933, have been-' four: 1, a continuation of the old Go-to-High School, Goto-College Campaign by those chapters desiring it; 2, a campaign of education for citizenship; 3, an investigation of the New Deal; and 4, an intelligent program of fellowship and scholarship aid. GO-TO-HIGH SCHOOL, GO-TO-COLLEGE That such a campaign is still necessary in some regions is revealed by a recent report which shows more than 7,000 Negroes in South Carolina who can not read and write. I have not attempted to foster a minutely worked out program upon the chapters. Each locality has its own special problems which no one individual can possibly understand or solve. Moreover, the educational program is the chapter's program. I am no more capable of formulating a single educational program for Massachusetts and Mississippi, Ohio and North Carolina, than I am of determining all of the details for your dances or smokers. For evidence of the extent to which many chapters developed, through their own plans, very effective campaigns, I call your attention to the Sphinx, especially pages 4, 16, 17 and 20, December, 1936; pages 24 and 29, February, 1937; pages 16, 32, and 33, May, 1937; and page 30, October, 1937. In some instances, you will notice, the chapters combined the two forms of our educational program. I wish again to express my thanks to Brother John W. Davis of Houston, Texas, for his able direction of the 1936 campaign.
EDUCATION FOR CITIZENSHIP By this slogan I mean an extensive, intelligent, participation on the part of Negroes in the affairs of government. We must overcome the lethargy of non-participation during a whole generation. That we are beginning to do so is clear from a reading of the Sphinx, especially pages 33, 38, October, 1936; pages 11 and 25, February, 1937; pages 19, 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31„32, 33, and 34, for May, 1937; page 23, October, 1937; page 19, December, 1937. Additional evidence is found in the fact that twenty-two chapters requested that the large display placards be sent them. The Virginia State Teachers Association adopted Education for Citizenship as its theme last year. Professor Monroe N. Work emphasized this, theme in his article on Social Forces for October, 1937. It is entirely appropriate, therefore, that our convention speaker, Brother Myles Paige, should be one who has attained eminent distinction in the field of citizenship. A roll call of Alpha men who are giving a practical application to our educational campaign would cpmpose a group who would make the nebulous forty-ninth state the best commonwealth in America. With apologies to those whom I omit, I ask Alpha men to salute and emulate not only Brother Paige but Brother William H. Towers, member of the Kansas legislature; Brother Charles W. Anderson, member of the Kentucky legislature; Brothers Homer Brown and Marshall Shepard, members of the Pennsylvania legislature; Brother Ernest Green of the Illinois legislature; Brother Vice-President Bert McDonald, deputy district attorney, Los Angeles; Brother Theron B. Hamilton, city assessor of Pittsburgh; Brother John Tyler Smith, the first Negro to be summoned to serve as a juror of the federal court of the Northern Oklahoma District. These are by no means all. But even if all were listed here, they would not be enough. I hope to live to see the day when Negroes, whether Alpha men or not are members of every state legislature in the Union. May my sun not ,set until there are a score of Negroes in Congress, among who will be many Alpha men and all of whom will know that their election resulted in part a t least from Alpha's great revival of political interest on the part of Negroes. Will you help us accomplish this objective ? The debates over the Harrison-Black-Fletcher Bill gave us an opportunity to gear our campaign to a definite program. I urged all chapters to give special emphasis to the discussion of this bill. Alpha men displayed their usual alertness and took their stand among the vanguard fighting for it. Brother Dr. Charles H. Thompson was. the chair-
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May, 1938
man of the National Coordinating Committee for the Equitable Distribution of Federal Aid to Education. Brothers Houston, DuBois and Harvey appeared before congressional committees. As the next step in widening our program I proposed to the Los Angeles convention an initial survey of the South to guide our future policy. This initial survey shows that by 1930, Democratic white primary rules, enacted either by the state or local party authorities, were in force in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Louisianna, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia. In Alabama and Mississippi, which have large Negro populations, there are quite extensive ire restrictions which in effect are directed against the Negro. The restrictions apply to primaries as well as to general elections and are perhaps relied on more than white primary rules as a means of barring Negroes from Democratic primaries. A state-wide rule enacted by the State Executive Committee is in force in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Arkansas. In four states, namely, Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi, the primary election statutes specifically recognize the State Executive Committees as the authorities possessing the to add to the statutory qualifications for participation in party primaries. In South Carolina, Texas, and Viwrinia, the present white primary rules were established by the Democratic State Conventions. The statutes in pecificajly recognize the right of the party to add qualifications, but do not specify the state party conventions as the rule-making agency.
house College, Southern Jurisdiction; Brother Elbert Rogers, University of Illinois, Midwestern Jurisdiction; Brother Elbert Rogers, University of Illinois, Midwestern Jurisdiction; Brother Fred Banks of Colorado, Western Jurisdiction, for study at The Art Institute of Chicago. Brother James Hite of Morgan College and Brother Edgar Clay of Lane College received fifty dollar awards. As the result of a special grant in the fields of medicine, law, engineering, or dentistry, an award of five hundred dollars on the recommendation of a special committee was made to Brother Dr. Warrick W. Cardozo. A special grant of $550 was made to Mr. Donald Murray, the colored law student at the University of Maryland, in whose case the Fraternity had taken an initial interest. For the school year 1937-1938 awards were made as follows:
The survey further revealed that Negroes are awaiting some kind of leadership, but that that leadership in most instances must come from without. I wish to thank the i igator of this survey and Brother Karl Downs for his able direction of the 193G campaign and for many suggestions during the past year.
SCHOLARSHIPS OF $25.00 EACH OUT OF UNEXPENDED BALANCE OF FELLOWSHIPS Brother Leroy B. Allen, West Virginia State College. Brother Gabriel Alexander, Morehouse College. Brother George H. Hamilton, Xavier University. Brother Walter McLean, Wilberforce University. Brother John S. Seldon, Talladega College. During the past two years, then, the Fraternity has awarded $2,850, of which $1,025 has been in scholarships or almost exactly one-half of the total if the Murray award is not included. In compliance with a request expressed at the Los Angeles convention I endeavored to obtain information concerning the present interest in the Fraternity and the achievements of Brothers who have received awards since the Fraternity first began granting them. The most important list did not reach my office until the early days of December, 1937. I am, therefore, unable to make a complete report. Permit me, however, to make a brief statement concerning some of the recent recipients. Brother Himes has been engaged in social work in Columbus, Ohio; Brother Towns is professor of Chemistry a t A and T College of North Carolina; Brother Browning won the prize for the second best article in the Journal of Negro History during 1937. Brother Henry Ryan of LeMoyne is spending the present year studying in France. Brother John Hope Franklin did such commendable work at Harvard that one of his instructors expressed to me the highest praise of him. After serving one year on the faculty of Fisk University he is now working on the degree of Doctor of Philosophy at Harvard. Brother Lockett received the degree of Doctor of Philosophy from Rutgers University. Brother Dr. Cardozo has published a paper, "Immunologic Studies of Sickle Cell Anemia" in the Archives of Internal Medicine for October, 1937. Brother Charles L, Franklin's doctoral dissertation, The Negro (Continued on Page 43)
NEW DEAL REPORT The second report on the New Deal and the Negro apI in the December, 1936, February and May, 1937, issues of the Sphinx. Whereas the first one covered the situation in the nation's capital, the second one analyzed its operation in certain cities of Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York. The Special Investigator visited these communities, sometimes at considerable personal risk, and obtained what is still the only comprehensive picture of the benefits and shortcomings of the New Deal as far as the Negro is concerned. I hope that many Brothers feel as did Brother Martin of Beta Alpha Lambda who wrote (Sphinx, February, 1937, p. 20) that the report "is a masterly effort in the right directionâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;deserving our highest approval. It gives us a clear and vigorous presentation of the whole web of color prejudice in the many government projects." I hope further that many chapters devoted at least a part of a meeting to studying the report, as Beta Alpha Lambda prepared to do. Special thanks is due to the Investigator and to several officials who cooperated with him in gathering the material for the investigation. FELLOWSHIPS AND SCHOLARSHIPS For the school year 1936-1937 a fellowship of $275.00 was awarded Brother John Lockett of Virginia State College to study at Rutgers University, one hundred dollar scholarships were awarded to Brother B. A. Jones, More-
FELLOWSHIP Brother A. K. Nyabongo, The Queen's College, Oxford, England, to complete his dissertation, "The Religious Beliefs, Ideals and Practices of the Ancient Religion of Uganda"â&#x20AC;&#x201D;$500. Brother Brother Brother Brother Brother
SCHOLARSHIPS OF $100 EACH Vurnell Lockwood, Morgan College, Eastern. Rollins Winslow, Fisk University, Southern. Benjamin A. Collier, Shaw University, Southern. Neal A. Simeon, Armour Institute, Midwestern. Leo McGee, Wiley College, Western.
May, 1938
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REGIONAL DIRECTOR GETS RESULTS
"CHARTS THE COURSE" FOR ALPHA
BROTHER M. G. FERGUSON
GENERAL SECRETARY JOSEPH H. B. EVANS
Bearing the distinction of being one of the first men to be appointed a Regional Director, Brother M. G. Ferguson, of Nashville, Tennessee, has been one of the most ardent workers in such a capacity. He was named by Brother Charles W. Greene, First' Vice-President, during the Silver Convention two years ago at Nashville, following the acceptance of the President's recommendation that a campaign of Reclamation, and the program of building a greater Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity be carried on in the several regions through Regional Directors.
Of Washington, D. C, who has been referred to as the "heart" of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternityâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the "life" of the organization. There is one thing certain! Brother Evans, with the cooperation of the President and the General Treasurer, has worked out a fiscal policy that enabled Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity to weather the worst period of a depression that shook the very foundation of our national life. His report at the 26th General Session in New Orleans, La. revealed that Alpha Phi Alpha was in the best financial condition than it has been at any other period within its history. Secretary Evans is in intimate touch with every departmment of the organization. He is the driving power of Alpha Phi Alpha between conventions. His reports are always convention highlights because they ,chart the course of the future for the Fraternity in the light of work accomplished in the past. In New Orelans, he said: "There is much to be done in the years to come but we face the future secure in the knowledge that the finest of cooperation is at hand and brothers everywhere are ready and eager to work for the glory of Alpha Phi Alpha and her son.
Since his appointment, Brother Ferguson has made contact with many chapters in the Southern Region, bringing them more in line with the fundamental ideals and aims of the general organization. He has made an enviable record in reclaiming delinquent brothers. His influence as an Alpha man in his own City of Nashville was indicated a few weeks ago when he inspired the four chapters to sponsor a Joint Banquet Reception. Brother Ferguson is connected with the Citizens Saving & Trust Company of Nashville.
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THE
May, 1938
SPHINX
SIGHT-SEEING TOUR REVEALS OLD
FRIENDSHIP
WORLD BEAUTY OF NEW ORLEANS
By OSCAR BOUISE
On the balmy morning of Wednesday, December 27, 1937 the Alpha Brothers and some of the ladies in their company went on a sight-seeing tour through the city of New Orleans, Louisiana, guided by Brothers Harold Bouise, and A. P. Tureau. After leaving Xavier University, we travelled along Pontchartrain Boulevard to the New Orleans Country Club where the tennis matches of the Sugar Bowl were in progress. Turning out City Park Avenue and passing through the main entrance of City Park we visited Roosevelt Mall, named after President Roosevelt, the municipal Stadium, and the Duelling Oaks, so called because of the many duels fought under this tree in defense of the challenger's honor. Our journey took us past the Fair Grounds where the racing season was in progress, thence to Dillard University and its beautiful campus. From here we visited the Corpus Christi Catholic Church, the largest church for Negro Catholics in the United States, and its parochial .schools maintained by the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament. This Church and School are located in the section of the city known for its predominance of Creole beauty. The School has an enrollment of 21,000 pupils and is located on St. Bernard Avenue. From this point we visited the Valena C. Jones Normal and Practice School. Nearly eighty-five percent of the teachers in the public school system of New Orleans graduated from this school. It has an enrollment of 2500 students, and a teaching load of about 60 to 85 students. It was noted here that the average teaching load is about 75 students per teacher in the colored public schools. Moving along from this point to St. Roch Cemetery, we visited the chapel and the graves, and observed in the chapel many things of interest in the way of tributes paid to the patron saint of the afflicted. One could see ciutches, plaster of Paris reproductions of parts of the human body, small slabs of stone with expressions of "Thanks" etc. in this chapel, as a tribute to this patron saint. From St. Roch Cemetery we journeyed to the sites of the former U. S. Mint, now a federal prison; French Market, and thence to Jackson Square, and thence to the Cabildo, St. Louis Cathedral and the Pontalba buildings. The Cabildo, formerly the buildings housing the colonial governments' administrative officers, is now used as a museum. In this museum we observed, of particular interest, a bust of the late Thorny Lafon, free person of color, philanthropist who donated to New Orleans charity upwards of five hundred thousand dollars. A special guide took the party through St. Louis Cathedral showing us the sites of the graves of their deceased Bishops, Archbishops, and Baron Almonaster, the designer and builder of the three units in the group, namely: St. Louis Cathedral, the Cabildo and the Presbyterre. The buildings on either side of this group were pointed out as the first apartment houses in the United States and are known as the Pontalba buildings. We visited, in the Cabildo, the cell that housed the pirate and buccaneer Jean Lafitte, who, it is said made his escape from this prison to go to France to steal the remains of the late Napoleon Bonaparte and to bring them to Louisiana to be buried. There was shown to the visitors bullet holes on one of the walls in the courtyard of the Cabildo where prisoners faced the firing squad.
There are very few things in life which are so consoling as is the knowledge that someone, somewhere, is actually thinking about one, living over again in his imagination vividly remembered events of the past, hoping that sometime in the future—no matter how distant it may be—what is now merely a memory may once again become a reality. There is nothing so warm and close as a remembered handclasp in which two souls spoke to each other—except that it be the handclasp itself; it is a pulsing reminiscence which may linger for time illimitable—if the act is based upon trust, sincerity and true and undying understanding. There are not many such relationships in this hurrying existence of ours, in which one is incapable of breasting the seas of personal desire, the selfishness and avarice, the "thousand natural shocks that flesh is heir to." These human mergers—in which two personalities lose themselves in one another—are "devoutly to be wished." The world remembers—perhaps with a pang of realization—a Damon and Pythias, a Tennyson and a Hallam; it concludes that an age of enlightment, of individuality, of political upheaval and general unrest, of scientific development and progress—accompanied by the growing necessity of the return of the "survival of the fittest"— has neither time nor place for such sentimental romanticism of chivalric revival. It tends to say, "let the dead bury its dead" and if there must be love, let man love the present, the tinsel of happiness which comes with the so-called success measured in dollars and cents and hypocritical parasites who hang on as long as the spring of gold pours forth a steady stream of its fruit. Yet, deep down within the innermost recesses of its soul—if there be one there—it realizes too well that it is only duping itself; human beings do possess hearts and souls which no physician's operation has yet been able to remove successfully without impairing existence—and it never will. To me, a life of the mere factual present would be a drab existence indeed. It would eliminate reminiscences of the little things which tend to make the present more livable; it would eradicate the visions of the future in which the hope of a recurrence of those cherished events of the past studs the road one must travel with imaginary jewels, makes one prefer to "live as if to live forever" rather than to "live as if, to die tomorrow." And one of the most beautiful of all reminiscences is that of a friendship—a real, honest, and sincere friendship—built on the firm foundations of selflessness and confidence. It is one of the dearest things that God has given to man. BRO. OSCAR BOUISE, Beta Tau, Xavier University, New Orleans, La. From this point we journeyed to the business section, having overspent our time in this interesting sight seeing tour, pausing long enough to glance at the levees on the Algiers side of the Mississippi River from Canal Street. We observed the decks, and many boats from all the ports of the world. Due to lack of time, we were only allowed a moment's glance at the famous "Basin Street", but we all agreed that the Convention had furnished a rare opportunity to those who wished to carry with them a touch of the old New Orleans.
May, 1938
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Ed ucation Thru Legislation Representative Anderson Makes History By STEWARD PICKETT / ^ H A R L E S W. AND E R S O N , JR.; young attorney and first Negro to occupy a seat in the Kentucky Legislature or a Southern Legislature since Reconstruction Days makes enviable record of aehievement d u r i n g present session of 1938 General Assembly. Young legislator has vigorously opposed further efforts of segregation and discrimination; and sponsored legislation for the benefit of his Race. Defeats Bus Segregation Bill and PubBRO. CHARLES W. ANDERSON lie Whipping Post. A bill introduced in the present session of the Ken'ucky Legislature by a mountain Representative to provide a partition for the separation of white and Colored people on buses was successfully defeated after an heroic and vigorous fight lasting 8 weeks of the session by Louisville's Race Representative, Rep. Anderson, who defeated every effort of the sponsors of the bill to bring it upon the floor for a vote and finally succeeding in tabling the measure or killing it. A public whipping post bill designed expressly for Negroes in mis-demeanor cases was defeated in another fight waged by Kentucky's Race Legislator against its enactment. Wins Fight to Repeal Kentucky's Infamous 18 years old Public Hanging Law After nearly 9 weeks of fighting to repeal Kentucky's infamous Public Hanging Law designed expressly to legalize the hanging of Negroes saw the 1938 Session of the Kentucky Legislature repeal a statute placed in the Acts of the 1920 General Assembly providing the penalty of death in rape cases, and that the execution shall be by hanging the condemned before the view of the public. More than 10,000 persons have been known to attend these scenes for the celebration or satisfaction of a morbid curiosity. The successful fight of Mr. Anderson will make it mandatory for all sentences carrying the death penalty to be by electrocution in the State Prison. The repeal of this law was won in the Senate by a vote of 30 to 7, and in the House where Mr. Anderson is a member by a vote of 62 to 4. Wins Fight to Allow Public School Teachers the Right To Marry and Retain Employment The old Louisville law or ruling of the Board of Education prohibiting public school teachers from marrying was up-rooted recently when a bill sponsored by Rep. Anderson passed the General Assembly allowing Public School-teachers with five years teaching experience the
right to marry and retain their employment, and to prohibit Boards of Education in all cities in Kentucky from having rules or regulations in the restraint of marriage or to cancel any teachers' contract because of marriage. Defeats Move of Kentucky Legislature to Send Resolution To Congress Against Anti-Lynch Bill A resolution adopted in the Senate of the Kentucky Legislature to memorialize Congress to defeat legislation of the Federal Anti-Lynch Bill which was adopted by a vote of 30 to 4 was defeated when the Resolution came to the House to be concurred in. Charles W. Anderson, Jr., leading f he fight against the resolution succeeded in killing it in Committee before the white Representatives could bring the bill to the floor for a vote. Introduces Bill to Prohibit Discrimination of Negroes in Employment on Public Buildings and Public Works Rep. Anderson has undertaken the sponsorship of a bill to prohibit the discrimination of Negroes in employment on public work projects and public buildings. This bill is believed the first of its k'nd to be presented to a Southern Legislature, though several Northern states have enacted it. Rep. Anderson in further attacks on the vicious forms of discrimination and segregation is preparing a bill asking for the repeal of Kentucky's separate Coach Law on trains and a separate bill asking for identical coach and parlor service on trains if the other bill is defeated . . . in an effort to improve traveling service for our race. Sponsors Bill for High School Education to Race Boys and Girls in Rural Counties of Kentucky Because many counties in Kentucky do not provide high schools for Colored boys and girls, Mr. Anderson is sponsoring a bill to compel counties to either provide high school service or where there is not a sufficient number of Race students for a high school, to provide maintenance (tuition and fees or board) or the transportation of students to the nearest high school located in another county. Sponsors Bills to Aid Paupers in Courts and Fees Mr. Anderson, in an effort to make the work of the N. A. A. C. P. less expensive in aiding Negroes accused of criminal offenses or felonies, is sponsoring a bill to provide court fees to be paid for by the county in all cases of paupers indicted for felonies, and to provide for records and appeals and payment of counsel fees for members of the bar appointed by the court to defend paupers. (This applies to both white and Colored). Anderson Obtains $5,000.00 Additional Appropriation to Aid Students Pursuing Couraes Out of State at State Expense In the first term of Mr. Anderson's membership in the Kentucky Legislature in 1936, he sponsored a bill to provide $175.00 for each student pursuing graduate education outside of the state or who was compelled to attend school outside of Kentucky because of its separate school law. This bill carried an appropriation of $10,000.00 biennually and was increased during the present 1938 session with an additional $5,000.00 to aid Race students out of the Governor's emergency fund.
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WHO'S WHO AMONG THE CHAPTERS OF ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY
HARD KNOCKS FORM FOUNDATION FOR PROFESSIONAL PROMINENCE
By Jewel George B. Kelly Who's Who Editor
By H. C. SPARKS
ÂŁ"\UR attention is often called to outstanding individual members of our fraternity but little notice is given to the progress of the various chapters which are responsible for the successful continuance of those principles which have made Alpha Phi Alpha what it is today. Among these units is Rho Lambdaâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a graduate chapter, composed of brothers living in Rochester, Niagara Falls and Buffalo. The seat of the chapter is in Buffalo, New York. The membership is made up largely of Alpha men who were initiated in their under-graduate days and who have brought to the group all the enthusiasm, love for the work and the traditions of the Fraternity. Although the chapter has members from the professions and the various walks of life, each one feels that it is his individual duty to work toward the success of Rho Lambda. When the writer first visited Buffalo in 1926, he found a handful of loyal Alpha men struggling to carry on a graduate chapter with at least one-third of its membership 75 miles distant from the seat of the chapter. He noted, however, that notwithstanding the miles which separated the membership, the chapter met in each city at intervals, although such visits entailed great sacrifices for some. As the years have passed since then, each succeeding visit to Buffalo has shown a greater improvement in Rho Lambda Chapter. As additional Alpha men have migrated to Buffalo and Niagara Falls, the membership has increased until today the chapter is composed of about twenty loyal Alpha men all striving for the success of the local chapter and, at the same time, proving their loyalty and love for the fraternity from which they have sprung. An outstanding feature which makes the chapter a success is the willingness of the older men in the chapter to allow the younger men to take an active part therein but at the same time to give their united support. Fortunately the chapter has among its membership men who have been in and around Buffalo for a number of years and are familiar with the needs of the community. This information is largely obtained from the genial and loyal brother who is director of the Buffalo branch of the Urban League. It is, therefore, no wonder that these brothers have, through persistent efforts and loyalty to each other, made themselves recognized as leaders in the civic and social life of the community. The chapter is social during their spare moments and never lets an opportunity pass wherein they can greet and entertain, in some manner, any Alpha man who comes in their midst. Their social program includes the carrying on of events which are outstanding and greatly appreciated by those included as guests. Credit for the success of the smaller social events of the chapter should be shared by the loyal wives of the men of Rho Lambda. These ladies are among the most outstanding and genial of the fair sex of the community. They are always willing to lend their support and donate the use of their homes toward the success of any Alpha Phi Alpha affair. For a chapter which is making consistent progress and is helping to make better the community in which it lives, I give you "Rho Lambda Chapter."
deem it quite an honor to submit to our group a bit of history of one of our most o u t s t a n ding brothers. He is Dr. Charles R. Lewis, popularly known to his friends as "Doc." His rise to prominence in the medical profession reads like an epic. Brother Lewis received his elementary training in the South. There he learned, in the popular slang of the day "to take it." While working hard at such tasks as d i t c h digging, farming, firing boilers, table waiting, and DR. CHARLES R. LEWIS washing dishes, Brother Lewis always looked forward to a professional future. Taking a glimpse at his educational background, we find that he took his premedical work at Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio. There he became very popular as a "rip-snorting" fullback on the varsity football team. Then, to Ohio State University and later to Chicago University for post graduate work. From Chicago, "Doc" went to the Freedman's Hospital. Always eager for knowledge, Brother Lewis took advantage of the opportunity to go to Europe to take up advanced study in surgery. He attended the University of Vienna, the University of Berlin, and St. Thomas Hospital in London. Brother Lewis first gained national recognition when he discovered a case of "Leprosy." This case was so widely publicized that he was asked to prepare a paper exclusively for the Summit County Medical Society. It proved to be exceptionably creditable. At Ohio State University, Brother Lewis first saw the light. This was in 1913. He was elected unanimously to the presidency of Kappa Chapter which thrived under his guidance. In 1935 "Doc", with a handful of other good brothers, notably Dr. John W. Dunbar, Attorney Emmer M. Lancaster, Dr. John B. Walker, and Rev. Daniel Thomas, brought Alpha Tau Chapter, Akron, Ohio, into existence. Quite a tribute to one who has found time to serve his profession, church, and community. THIS IS HIS TWENTY-FIFTH YEAR IN ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY. The bright climax of Brother Lewis' achievement has been the recent discovery of another form of hazardous condition, a reaction that takes place as the result of working with "dry ice." Its freezing capacity is so intense it forms a numbness of the hands and armls, developing into loss of the bone structure a sort of dissolving effect. His work in this connection has been recognized by the local medical society. He has been asked to contribute a paper on his latest work. It is titled, "Agraurilociptosis." Alpha Tau wishes to be the first to congratulate one of its own.
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Does The Negro Really Care? By DR. MILTON S. J. WRIGHT Contributing Editor A few month ago, I read an article entitled, "America Doesn't Give a Damn." This article appeared in one of our nationally known magazines. The author called attention to the fact that America is apparently singing, dancing and clowning while the fundamentals of civilization go to rot. Of course, the article made reference principally to American whites who seemed more intensely interested in the purely social affairs than in the affairs of state. After reading this a r t i c l e , MILTON S. J. WRIGHT there came a thought concerning those twelve or fifteen million people in the United States known as Negroes. Considering this group as a whole, does it give much serious thought to the economic situation that has confronted it in this country throughout the years? The economic status of the Negro is deplorable. But does he really care? Does he care about the fact that he has not been able to build a real economic strong-hold in this country? Is he unconcerned about the fact that from one generation to another the majority of his group have been compelled to look to the white man for his food and keep, and that from general appearances this situation will continue for at least a century longer ? Do Negroes in this country care about the fact that many of the principal industrial plants of the nation are either definitely against the employment of Negroes or are not in the least concerned as to whether or not Negroes are employed as skilled, semi-skilled or even as common laborers? Visit, if you will, the industrial plants in the vicinity of your home town and note how few Negi-o employees are to be found. Does it matter that a large number of even the so-called "hope of the race", high school, college and university students, seem more interested in cocktail parties, fine clothes, truckin' and the like than they are in honestto-goodness thought and study for their own betterment, to say nothing of what the lot of posterity is to be? We have heard parents and educators contend that in these respects Negroes are no different from whites. In such contentions, a mighty big factor is overlooked. White men own and control practically all of the capital and labor in this country and in most parts of the world. They have far more jobs to offer their people than Negroes have. The economic security of white as a group stands as a giant in comparison with that of colored men. Wheth-
er by conquest, exploitation, robbery, or as results of combinations of them all, nevertheless the white man has built for himself a mighty economic structure, which, faulty as it is, demands the respect of all others. With such an economic background and foundation, he can better afford to frolic and clown than the colored brother. For three quarters of a century or more, there has been an extensive program to make the Negro in this country extremely race conscious. This program has taken two major directions: oneâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;to make him think that he is equally "as good" (whatever that means) as any other race of people in the world; the otherâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;to make him realize and admit that he is not so "good" as other races of men. The first of these attempted so to twist his reasoning (or lack of reasoning) that he would believe whole-heartedly in such catch phrases as, "black but honorable", "descendants of the mighty Pharohs"; or "children of the sun." Certain isolated instances of Negroes who had invented this, that, or the other, or who were the first to have done this or that were cited and publicized. Even white people joined in this campaign and spoke and wrote about the "wonderful progress" that the American Negro had made in such a short time. Instead of this spurring the race on to real accomplishment, in too many instances it only served to make a large number of its members sit down and bask in what they thought was their reflected glory. We do not doubt that many of these campaigners, both white and colored, were in absolute earnest in the things they wrote and said in lauding the race, but in a large measure, the psychology of this campaign was to inflate the ego of the group and to make it feel that it was what in reality it was not. The second group of campaigners maintained that Negroes were by nature and nurture inferior in almost every respect. To them the very term "Negro" meant inferiority and carried with it the stigma of being below par. They assured themselves and their listeners that Negroes had- no real claim to any such ancient and rich heritages as the other races. Persons of African descent were born to be "hewers of wood and drawers of water." "Someone had to pick the cotton; someone had to plant the corn; had to be content with any old thing, that's why 'they' were born." This sort of campaign material was used as an antidote to the fore-mentioned campaign. There is no doubt but that this caused at least some little reaction on the part of a considerable number of the race. But not even this succeeded in absolutely awaking and arousing the Negro to fundamental action. The vast majority of the group (those who are employed at all) are engaged in agricultural pursuits, as domestic servants, or as common laborers. Of these a large percentage are illiterate or uneducated. They are completely engulfed in a mighty capitalistic society of which they are an insignificant part. It is a fact that they are American citizens, according to law. There is no law that compels industry to employ every citizen who needs employment a t all times. Economists tell us that (Continued on PagÂŤ 42)
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Misses
By J. Edward (Joe) Cotton TN keeping with traditional usages and good letter form I suppose I'll have to answer Bro. 0. Wilson Winter's letter that was addressed to me in the last i'sue through the " F r a t Fun" columns. So here goes: Brother Doctor 0. Wilson Winters, Frat Fun Dispensary, Norristown, Pa. My Dear Bro. Winters: (Right here starts the usual baloney one hands to another in the course of his letter, but I am going to ask your indulgence to allow me to write mine in short excerpts and I hope that this will hit the spot just the same). One of the most pleasant times that I have enjoyed recently was coming in contact with your Negro legislator on his Southern trip made recently. Bro Marshall Shepard had a rather unique time getting South to keep a speaking engagement. However, he really "went to town" to an over-crowded house. You Pennsylvania boys have a way about you, somewhat different, like Bro. "Loose P a r t s " Jerrick, Bro. "Funny Side" Winters, "Slim Hamilton" and others I could name. Some technique, I say. Education in the Southland has made very slow progress and for some unknown reason it has lost its drawing power, somewhat like some of our churches. Before I go further let me get you straight that I am in no wise attempting to knock churches and schools and if any one is so narrow as to apply these few "splurges" that way, I must say they are weaklings. Now let's push on. Having had the privilege of working in three different states in almost two decades and having put up most of that time with educational institutions, I arrive at these conclusions affecting a Tri-State area that is not common to all areas. Sometime ago the depression when at its lowest, educational systems began hiring what is known as hometown talent first in the instructional division and I believe that has a tendency to lim't ideas of the instructor. Many of these individuals are masters in their given line of work; especially in secondary education, but lack the powers to reach the innermost part of the persons they are instructing. Therefore, a falling off in the interest of furthering one's training. Lack of any knowledge of the various fields whereby individuals of our groups can be gainfully employed naturally dulls the edges of preparation. I found that it is somewhat of a difficult problem to interest a child to go beyond his high school career as reported by the figures covering a wide area. The proportion of high school graduates that further their education is entirely too small. I know that I am probably bringing down the wrath of the "fathers that be" on this "splurge," but I hope that it will start them to thinking. One of the necessary things that needs to be stressed with more pressure is the fulfillment of Booker T. Washington's educational program of preparing the hand along with the mind. We, as a whole, need to learn how to sustain ourselves,
more technical training and advance work in order to handle those chittlerings, hot-dogs, watermelons, chauffeuring and the other menial jobs that we hold, we could hold them better and execute much more efficient service. The age of specialization has crowded out the generalise Well, so much for that, space will not permit more. We'll let you know the reactions in another issue, that is, if I am able. Saw where Brother Jewel Tandy of New York had his plans accepted to construct the Liberian exhibit at the World's Fair next year. Great work, Brother Tandy. Down in Little Rock way, Pi Lambda chapter is going to crown a Miss Alpha Phi Alpha sometime soon. It happens to be the brain-child of Bro. C. Franklin Brown who has been the corresponding secretary of the chapter for some time. I can suggest one good young lady in the person of Miss Jordan. I wouldn't mind being 'king' in attendance to such a "queen." Think it over, Carolina. Brother Frank Stanley really can take some nice pictures as was shown in the last issue. Keep up the good work with Brother Charles W. Anderson and Brother Jimmie Hudson. Well, Brother Winters, you asked in your letter what I was, a boilermaker, sociologist or some other such big name; to be frank, I hardly know myself. However, the same man has kept me on his payroll for about eight years. Am 'tentatively' identified with the Memphis City School System but for how much longer I am unable to say. I hope that this will suffice. And right back at you on all of this, if you mistake anything here for applause, just remember that it resembles applesauce. Have you seen anything of our good brother, Tyus, of Rumford Baking Powder fame? It's about time he was showing up this way. What's become of Brother Tollie Harris of Oklahoma? Missed him at the convention and haven't heard from him yet. Let us hear from you. Brother Evans has been scouting around, and down in old Tennessee he found a very unique electrical sign of Alpha Phi Alpha. He doesn't know that in our town we have a brother that puts out a very nice sign, also. You might be hearing from him in the near future. I hope that I will get the chance to see it sometime soon, if I have to ask Brother Seals to bring it over to Memphis the next time he comes this way. All the space I can get has been used since this is a picture edition and we will all get a little rest during the Summer, and here's wishing you and all the rest a very pleasant Summer and don't be surprised if you look up and see me any old time. I close this answer to your most cordial letter until next time.
May, 1938
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?*ATE*NITV
ruv
DR.O. WILSON W I N T E R S FRAT
FUN
GOOD INTENTIONS I wish to thank the officers and brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha for the honor of life membership they bestowed upon me at the last convention at New Orleans, La. It was indeed kind of you to honor me like that and I am very anxious to let you know that your Fun Editor appreciates it. I have just left my good friend, Brother Dr. Walter Fitzgerald Jerrick and he too duly acknowledges and appreciates the honor that makes us the first set of "rhinestones." I have always been known for my temperance but tonight sitting up in my den at midnight trying to beat the Sphinx editor's dead line of April 15 I am fighting a cold but the Sphinx must go on and I must get my article out before morning. So I have to put aside my temperance at least until I get this written. Should I ? I have a quantity of Leroux and Company 70 proof Rock and Rye before me and I think it will be beneficial to take a wee nip now and then between pecking on the old Underwood. I'll take a slug right now. Understand me now! That's just to help fight the cold. Here goes! Gulp! Gurgle! Gurgle! Gurgle! Say! that sure is good cough syrup. (Remind me to catch another right after Easter). I want to write this article about several things. I'll repeat some business slogans I've seen and heard. I'll tell you some assorted quips, give you some selected radio humor. I will also give you some points on : tory telling. (I must not forget this cold. Shake the bottle well and justâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;gurgle another wee bit and sip of Leroux). Boy oh boys, that stuff has a kick of a Missouri Mule. Do mules come from any place other than Missouri? Eh? Are you still reading?
PHILOSOPHY "By thy deeds shalt thou be known, by thy mortgages shalt thou be shown." "There is a vast difference between being open minded and empty headed."
EDITOR "Why, er, your wife is not inclined to be any too faithful to you sir," said the salesman. "Why do you say t h a t ? " asked the motorist. The salesman replied. "All the way to town while we were riding along your wife kept kicking my foot to attract my attention and she held my hand all the way here." "Oh, yeah?" said the motorist, "she might have kicked your foot, but I held your hand." Come to think of it, I still have that cold and I musent get careless so here is another dose, a sort of toast to Brother Jewel Tandy. Gulp! Gurgle! Gurgle! Phew &V*%\ Let's see what was I talking of. SLoGAns or stories? Do you know% the story of Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs ? Or any other F A I R Y story. Do you fellows believe in faries. I do. I have a pal who also Beliefs in f A I R I e s. He said one followed him 10 blocks one night and then vanished in thin air, just like XXX (how do you snap your fingers on a typewriter). Oh me! Two o'clock and my Rock and Rye is sticking its tongue out at me, making faces. &/% V ?!!&&!! I guess that'll fix it; fresh thing! Here are some slogans. Put this up in your office. "If you believe in Credit, loan me $5.C0. "Some pay when due, some overdue, some never do. How do you d o ? " Gee that stuff Vi is indeed peRcolating V&!!. It makesh you want to & go hotCHA. I wonder if Mr. Brother Howard Long ever go hotcha. He's so digkneefied, you know. But whathsa use. How do you Use a Stomick Pump? I sure am glad I had a guest columnist to write this artickle. That gave Me a % V / rest. I wonDer how he's making ouT. I hoPe $my cold is better when the next Ivy LeAf comes out, I mean the OraCLe no! the sPinks. That's right, I mean the Sphinx. I wish to thank the ofFicers and Brothers for this cold, % no & I mean these stones or this The Rocking Rye, these rhinestones. Hurray for Eta in 1939! Hurray for Etta right now. Hurray for sWingler. Hurray for Everybody! Enter Rock & Rye, exit infLuenza! Good bye job!
"You can always tell a Harvard man . . . but you can't tell him much." A travelling salesman, one night, was walking along the highway and a passing motorist and his wife drove by in a small coupe. Stopping the car alongside the tired hiker they offered him a lift. The salesman with much relief accepted, apologizing for crowding into the small one seat car. The motorist was elderly but his wife was young, pretty, and vivacious. During the drive of some thirty miles there was much gay repartee and laughter. When they reached a large city the motorist stopped at a gasoline station, the salesman got out of the car, thanked the motorist, then calling him out and aside, said: "I thank you for your kindness and your hospitality but I simply have got to tell you something." "What is i t ? " asked the motorist.
DEADLINE NOTICE PICTORIAL NUMBER The Deadline for the Pictorial Number of The Sphinx, to be published the first week in October, has been set for September 12th. Pictures will predominate in this edition. Associate editors are kindly asked to minimize their copy as much as possible, and submit instead "photos" that will give a pictorial representation of Alpha Phi Alpha. Fraternally yours, LEWIS O. SWINGLER Editor, Sphinx Magazine.
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BROTHER J. AUBREY LANE ROUNDS OUT TWENTY YEARS IN ALPHA
COACH KEANE MAKES ENVIABLE RECORD AT KENTUCKY STATE
On March 28, Bro. Dr. J. Aubrey Lane, Chi Lambda Chapter, associate professor of agriculture, Wilberforce University, rounded out 20 years of active membership in Alpha Phi Alpha.
Brother Henry A. Kean, great coach a t Kentucky State College, deserves the Alpha ''doff" for his brilliant record in the field of athletics. He is not only a builder of national championship teams but an all around organizer of athletic activities of his state. Brother Kean finished Central High School in 1913. He entered Fisk University where he became a member of the varsity basketball and football teams. He left Fisk before graduation to enter the COACH HENRY A. KEAN Brother Army. Kean was appointed Second Lieutenant, 350 Field Artillery. After serving one year over sea, he returned to Fisk to graduate in 1930. He was coach and instructor at Simmons High School, West Virginia, one year; Simmons University, Louisville, Ky., one year; Lincoln High School, Paducah, one year; Central High School, Louisville. In 1930 Brother Kean came to Kentucky State College. In the meantime he received his Master Degree from Indiana University in Physical Education.
Initiated as a freshman at Ohio State in 1918, Brother Lane has been associated with Kappa, Alpha Alpha, Xi and Chi L a m b d a Chapters; serving as president of both Kappa and Chi Lambda. At present, Brother Lane is chairman of the XiChi Lambda Building Committee. In addition to his many edDR. J. AUBREY LANE ucational, military and fraternal connections, Brother Lane is chairman of the Faculty Committee on Student Activities. In the field of intercollegiate sports, Brother Lane is one of the best known athletic administrators in the country. For eight years he was chairman of the Athletic Committee of Wilberforce University. His wide knowledge of athletics and his complete grasp of the situation has won him places on the Committees of Publicity and Intercollegiate Competition of the American Tennis Association. The Mid-Western Athletic Association, which he helped form, returned him to office as president for the third time at the last annual meeting. Brother Lane's recent article on Inter-Racial Tennis in the Midwest, released through the American Tennis Association, has been very favorably received. Brother Lane married Miss Selma Shorter of Cincinnati in 1921. Their daughter, Jean Betty, has her father's keen interest in athletics. She is the holder of the county high school record for girls in the 50 and 100-yard dash and runs "anchor" on the championship girls' track team of CeUarville High School. Jean will enter the Department of Physical Education at Wilberforce next Fall. We congratulate Brother Lane on his first 20 years and wish him many more years of active participation in fraternity life.
While a t Kentucky State College, Brother Kean has succeeded in organizing the high schools of the state into an Athletic League of which he serves as Executive Secretary. His record at Kentucky State Football team since he has been coach is as follows:â&#x20AC;&#x201D; WON 1931 1932 1933 1934
7 5 4 8
LOST
TIED
2. 0 2 0
0 2 0 0
(Nat'l. Negro Intercollegiate Champions) 1935 1936 1937
9 3 7
1 3 0
(Nat'l. Negro Intercollegiate Champions)
0 3 0
May, 1938
THE S P H I N X
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REVIEWS
By JAMES B. BROWNING History Editor THE COLLAPSE OF THE CONFEDERACY By CHARLES H. WESLEY (Washington: Associated Publishers, Inc. 1937. Pp 225. Price $2.00) A S a novice in the field of historical research our esâ&#x20AC;˘ ^ teemed General President began by writing a rather long series of scholarly articles for leading publications. This type of intellectual activity was interspersed with travel, service in the great World War, community work and teaching. Dr. Wesley's Negro Labor in the United States was the pioneer treatise on Negro labor problems in this country. It is still widely quoted despite the appearance of two other books dealing with a similar subject and is widely used as collateral reading in both mixed and separate colleges. Alpha men can justly boast that their fraternity was the first Greek letter organization among Negroes to publish a history. It is a matter of common knowledge that this history was written by Charles H. Wesley. The demand for the history like the demand for Negro Labor in the United States has demanded its reprinting. Richard Allen, Apostle of Freedom,, has been hailed by critics as an absorbing narrative of the origin and growth of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, told through the life story of its great founder, and set against the general outline of American history in his times. Dr. Wesley's latest contribution to the field of historical scholarship appears under the caption The Collapse of the Confederacy. Except for the writings of brothers Du Bois and Taylor, this field has been almost completely monopolized by the historians of the dominant group. The author states in his preface that "This study is intended to set forth comprehensively this neglected aspect of American history, and to present an analysis of the causes and a summary of the internal processes by which the Confederacy collapsed." The book is divided into five chapters, and contains an introduction, postscript, appendix, bibliography, and index, embracing two hundred and twenty five pages. In chapter one the author shows quite clearly how the South had ample resources in war supplies and manufactures, but that its inadequate system of transportation and limited enlistments put that section at a decided disadvantage in the momentous crisis which followed. Chapter two reveals the presence of sectionalism within the South. It shows how the plantation system had created an attitude of individualism which made the political leaders unprepared for participation in- a government where men must give as well as take. Turning to the third chapter the reader is presented the spectacle of a militant minority promulgating a war for the protection of their vested interest at the expense of a majority of lesser whites and Negroes. Furthermore, the women of the South are given the "left-handed" criticism of being no more honorable, no more patriotic, than the women of any other typical section. As one reads on into chapter four, he learns the fantastic dream of the people of the Confederate (States for
recognition of Southern independence on the part of England and France because of the interest in Southern cotton. But in a style which is singularly scholarly and interesting the author shows' how Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation proved to be the "ace in the hole" and the effect was non-European recognition of Southern independence. The final chapter concerns the last gasp for breath on the part of the Confederacy. Here the General President presents the paradox of Southerners debating whether or not they shall allow disfranchised and segregated free Negroes a chance to participate in the War. As victory for the North seemed more certain; as days wore on they even considered the question of arming their slaves in a War to keep the slaves in bondage, and finally decided to make use of both the free Negroes and the slaves for military purposes. Dr. Wesley has written a commendable treatise. It is readable, it is scholarly, it is timely. JAMES B. BROWNING, Miner Teachers College. "WHAT OTHER REVIEWERS SAY OF DR. WESLEY'S LATEST BOOK In his Collapse of the Confederacy, Dr. Wesley announces his arrival among the front ranks of contemporary historians." "Wi.h his usual calm and factual approach, Dr. Wesley takes the props out from under the Southern propagandists with devastating finalityâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;it ought to be read by all people who want the truth at long last. THE PITTSBURGH COURIER. "Apart from the excellent and nonpartisan contribution he has made to historical scholarship, he has from an educational point of view, given documentary evidence which should dispel many of the myths and legends regarding the Civil War, myths and legends, which seem in some quarters to be taking on new life in the effort of their sponsors to apply them to some of the social problems of our day." MERKE CEERTI, Prof, of History, Teachers College, Columbia University. "I have long been familiar with it in its earlier form and you may have noted that I refer to, it in my Political and Social Growth of the United States. I am glad that the study with your added material is now more available to the profession. Your work deserves more attention than it has received from most historians." A. M. SOHLElSINGER, Prof, of History, Howard University. "The great suffering and sacrifice of the Confederacy about which the professional Southerners have wailed since 1865, needed to be effectively debunked, because it is the cornerstone of most of the attacks on the Negro
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and the stock apology for disfranchisement, discrimination, segregation and countless inequalities and insults. Dr. Charles H. Wesley of Howard University has effectively debunked this myth in his "Collapse of the Confederacy" which Dr. Carter Woodson's Associated Publishers has just released." PITTSBURGH COURIER, March 5, 1938.
acy" is correct. Mr. Wesley, professor of History at Howard University, claims the South had men, money and facilities but the people would not support the cause. The poor white had no interest in what the politicians, financiers and a few large slave owners were trying to do, he contends. PITTSBURGH, PA. PRESS, March 13, 1938.
"Historians speak of the Southern rebellion as half a nation unified in the war. But Dr. Wesley shows racketeering by the rich, and Jeff Davis so much at odds with his cabinet that in five years he had five secretaries of war, four attorney-generals, and three secretaries of State. And this will give you a laugh: The Confederacy went to war to keep its slaves. With aid from England in the early years of 1861 and 1862 it might have won, but England declined to aid slaveholders and told the rebels to free th e slaves first and then ask for help." AFRO AMERICAN, March 19, 1938.
"Dr. Charles H. Wesley, a product of Fisk, Yale and Harvard, has been fortunate in being left free from administrative work long enough to make a contribution to history. It is not often that a scholar makes more than one important contribution in a chosen field during his career, but Dr. Wesley, while still a young man, can claim as many as three. His "Negro Labor in the United States" —his unpublished treatment of "Emancipation and Apprenticeship" in the West Indies takes high ra?hk for both original treatment and independent research, and his "Collapse of the Confederacy", just given to the public, will startle the world with a new point of view with respect to a long-misrepresented regime. CARTER G. WOODSON, Editor of The Journal of Negro History.
"In the meantime, if you profess to be educated and if you believe that an educated person is one who achieves the techniques of open-mindedness, read "The Collapse of the Confederacy." It is definitely a thought provoking book and if you—by any chance—happen to be an educated southern white man, you must necessarily have achieved the technique of open-mindedness." THE WASHINGTON TRIBUNE, Feb. 12, 1938. "Contrary to popular belief, the South lost the Civil War because sentiment for the cause was lacking, if Charles H. Wesley, author of "Collapse of the Confeder-
ALPHA NOTES PHI BETA KAPPA Brother David H. Blackwell, 18, senior at the University, of Illinois, and member of Tau Chapter, was recently elected to membership in Phi Beta Kappa, national honorary society. He is the first Negro elected to this society at Illinois in 20 years. Brother Blackwell was also awarded one of the three Gregory scholarships by the university, and was initiated into Pi Mu Epsilon, national honorary mathematics fraternity. Brother Lester B. Granger, of the National Urban League Industrial Relations Department, completed recently a survey of the Urban Colored Population of New York City. This study was authorized by act of the Legislature June, ,1937, was begun in September, and concluded March 1, 1938. The Legislature received the formal report on February 14th last and is now considering action on the thirteen bills introduced by the Commission, of which Brother Granger served as Executive Director. Brothers Dr. Dean S. Yarbrough and Attorney William T. Andrews, both of Alpha Gamma Lambda Chapter, served as Research Director and Vice-Chairman of the Commission respectively. Brother Andrews is an Assemblyman from the Twentyfirst Assembly District, New York City.
THE NEGRO IN LOUISIANA, ASPECTS OF HISTORY AND HIS LITERATURE By CHARLES BARTHELMY ROUSSEVE (New Orleans; The Xavier University Press, 1937, pp. 212 Price $2.00) HTHE author points out in his acknowledgements that: "This work, prepared in 1935 is partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts, makes its appearance at this time substantially as it was originally written, save for refinement in the way of several minor alterations and the addition of a few details to bring the content nearer to the present day." Brother Charles B. Rousseve was well prepared to write this account for he was not only an excellent student in his classes in historiography at Xavier University but being a native of the region and a member of the colored Creole group he was able to enter door ways to materials which in all probability would have been closed to an appreciable number of outsiders. The author tells a readable story of Negro participation in the making of one of the most romantic states in the United States. The book relates: the never to be forgotten story of the Negro companions of the first settlers of Louisiana; an account of racial admixture side by side with laws intended to prevent inter-marriage; the gallantry of the Negro soldiers who helped Andrew Jackson win the belated battle of New Orleans; the narrative of economic and literary achievement on the part of Negroes in Louisiana; a revaluation of Negro participation in the reconstruction era which shows colored Creoles helping the northern and southern whites to lay the foundations for public schools, railways and road systems and in the years following the Civil War he summarizes a long and complex period of history in a provocative style and makes a thoroughly pleasing contribution to literature as well as to history. Brother Rousseve has struck off the pioneer work. His book is copiously documented, it contains illustrations which are quite illuminating and a bibliography which will save time for those who are to tread the trail he has blazed.
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FOUR CHAPTERS UNITE FOR JOINT BANQUET BALL AT NASHVILLE
The true spirit of Alpha Phi Alpha prevailed on the evening of April 1, 1938, when brothers of the four Nashville, Tennessee Chapters, Alpha Chi, Fisk University; Beta Omicron, Tennessee State College, Chi, Meharry Medical College, and Tau Lambda, City of Nashville, united their efforts for a Joint Banquet and Ball. They are shown in the spacious Tennessee State College Dining Hall with their wives and sweethearts. Brother C. W. Reeves, Fisk Jubilee singer, rendered "Sylvia," followed by a saxaphone solo by Brother Edgar Green. Selected numbers were also played by the Tennessee State Collegions. Dr. G. N. Adamson, Meharry faculty member, served as toastmaster for this auspicious occasion. The speaker of the evening, Dr. St. Elmo Brady, Fisk University, was presented by Brother M. G. Ferguson, of the Citizens Savings Bank, and National Regional Director of the Southern Region.
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1939 CONVENTION NEWS Brother James S. Watson Honored Brother James S. Watson, Justice of the Municipal Court of New York City and guest speaker at the 1937 Alpha Phi Alpha general convention, was honored at a testimon ial dinner at the Hotel Astor, New York City. More than five hundred associates and friends of the Justice, many of whom were Alpha men, paid tribute to Brother Watson in recognition of his excellent performance as a Justice of the Municipal Court. The keynote of the address was the opinion on the part of all that Judge Watson's service has demonstrated his competence—so much so that they consider the next logical step in his career to be elevated to either the Court of General Sessions or the Supreme Court of New York. For the occasion, Judge Moses H. Grossman was toastmaster. In addition to the guest of honor and Judge Grossman, other dignitaries at the speaker's table were: Sir Gerald Campbell, British consul-general; Pelham St. George Bissell, president-Justice of the municipal cour"; Arthur J. W. Hilly, former corporation counsel under whom Judge Watson served; Magistrate Myles Paige; Justice Myron Sulzberger; Elmer Rice, novelist and playwright, who was an associate of Judge Wateon in the Grossman firm, and Lester A. Walton, United States Minister to Liberia. Brother Watson, we congratulate you!
Brother Elmer Anderson Carter Again Honored On Thursday, March 24, 1938, Brother Elmer Anderson Carter, member, Appeal Board under the New York State Unemployment Insurance Law, was honored at a testimonial dinner at the luxurious Roger Smith. This dinner was sponsored jointly by the Reveille Club and the Greater New York Citizens Committee. More than three hundred associates and friends honored him. Brother William T. Andrews, members of the Assembly of the State of New York, was toastmaster. In addition to lovely Mrs. Carter, the mother of Brother Carter, and charming Mrs. Thelma Carter, the wife of Brother Carter, other persons at the speaker's table were: Dr. Eugene Kinckle Jones, executive secretary, National Urban League; Rev. John LaFarge, S. J., associate editor "America"; Mr. Roy Wilkins, editor, "The Crisis" and assistant secretary, N. A. A. C. P.; Mr. Cyrus Leroy Baldridge; Professor Herman A. Gray, chairman Unemployment Insurance Advisory Council; Dr. Sadie T. M. Alexander, assistant City Solicitor, Philadelphia; Hon. Ferdinand Q. Morton, Civil Service Commission, New York City; Hon. Charles E. Toney, justice, municipal court; Dr. Louis T. Wright, surgical director, Harlem Hospital; Hon. John J. Bennett, Jr., attorney general, state of New York; Dr. William R. Valentine, principal, Bordentown Manual Training School; Hon. Charles Poletti, justice, Supreme Court, State of New York. The Clarence Tisdale Trio rendered a few musical selections. This dinner was given in recognition of Brother Carter's outstanding life as a public servant and private citizen of the City and State of New York—as editor of Opportunity Magazine for over nine years, as a familiar figure rendering unselfish service in the various activi-
ties of public and private life in and about New York State. Brother Carter, we congratulate you on your many achievements in the past and we extend to you best wishes for even greater success in the future! 1939 GENERAL CONVENTION NEWS Alpha Gamma Lambda and Eta Chapters Organize for the 1939 General Convention The Alpha Gamma Lambda-Eta 1939 General Convention Committee, composed of the Executive Committees of these two New York City chapters, held its first meeting on February 17, 1939 for the purpose of making initial plans for the 1939 General Convention, awarded to New York City for the Summer of 1939 during the New York World's Fair. The keynote of the meeting was the expression by the New York brothers of the desire to make this convention the greatest—in achievements, in attendance in social activities, etc.—in the history of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Already plans are being made with the Special Events Department of the World's Fair to arrange a special tour of the Fair Grounds for the visiting Alpha Phi Alpha delegations. On to New York, brothers, for the Alpha convention of the century! The committee realizes, however, that its plans can not be fully realized without the wholehearted support of Alpha men throughout the country. In this connection, it feels that the experience of chapters which have carried out splendid conventions in the past will be of invaluable assistance in laying the ground work for the 1939 General convention; also, it is anxious to get suggestions from other sources. To that end, there is presented below a list of the officers and chairmen of subcommittees of the convention committee. Kindly send your suggestions to the appropriate subcommittees, addressing all communications to 180 West 135th Street, Box 808, c-o C. L. Franklin, New York City. 1939 General Convention Committee Officers Dr. Farrow R. Allen Chairman Herbert L. Bryan Vice Chairman Dr. Charles L. Franklin Secretary Ford Dabney Assistant Secretary Subcommittee Chairmen Place (public meetings, etc.) H. L. Bryan Finance and Budget V. J. Fowlkes Publicity and Publications J. C. Williams Reception, Registration, etc G. Fenderson Convention Procedure :...J. F. Norman Social Activities F. Walker Public Meetings M. DeLeon Reclamation E. Guinier Other plans for the convention are under way. We are are now at a stage where your suggestions will count most; therefore, we urge you to cooperate. In turn, we promise you the Alpha Convention of the Century!
May, 1938
THE
Significant BLINDNESS NO HANDICAP
BRO. JOSEPH S. HIMES, JR.
Among students who received a degree at the winter quarter convocation of Ohio State Uunivesity, Columbus, Ohio, was Brother Joseph S. Himes, blind research director of the Columbus Urban League. Brother Himes, 29 years old, was greatly aided by his mother, Mrs. E. B. Himes, who read to him. He is a graduate of Oberlin College where he earned and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. His sight was impaired in an explosion which took p l a c e before he left high school.
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News
DIRECTS SOUTHERN RURAL SECTION OF STUDY OF NEGRO YOUTH
DR. CHARLES S. JOHNSON
Dr. Johnson is directing the southern rural section of the study of Negro youth being sponsored by the American Youth Commission, w h i c h has its headquarters in Washington, D. C. This section of the study has a staff of 12 persons, including psychologists, field interviewers with sociological training, and statistical analysts. The study will be extended into eight southern rural areas, and will continue for about a year, and will concern itself with the racial factor in the personality de-
velopment of Negro youth.
NEW LINCOLN "U" (MO.) HEAD Supervisor of Negro Schools, Kansas City, Kansas who recently accepted the invitation to serve as the president of Lincoln University, Jefferson City, Missouri. He will fill the position previously held for six years by Brother Charles W. Florence, Dr.. Scruggs will assume his duties July 1, 1938. The new administrator is an Alpha, holding membership in Beta Lambda Chapter, Kansas City, Mo., the Research club, the Monrovian Club, and the Masonic Lodge. He received his A.B. DR. SHERMAN D. SCRUGGS degree at Washburn College, Topeka, Kans.; his Master's degree in 1925 from Kansas University, being the first Negro to receive this degree from Kansas. His thesis, published in a special bulletin by the University, was: "Effect of Improvement in Reading Upon the Intelligence of Negro Children."
Dr. Johnson will deliver the Commencement Address at Meharry Medical College on May 19th, taking as his subject, 'The Physician and Society."
WILL TAKE GRADUATE WORK
Brother Theodore R. Sherrod â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Active member o f Alpha Beta, Talladega College and college scholar in chemistry. He plans to pursue graduate work at the University of Wisconsin in the field of the chemistry of natural products. He is a member of the clas3 of '38.
BRO. THEODORE R. SHERROD
THE
May, 1938
SPHINX
VOICE OF THE SPHINX ALPHA RHO LAMBDA
IOTA LAMBDA CHAPTER Indianapolis, Ind.
Columbus, Ohio
Greetings Brothers in Alpha Phi Alpha: About all I have to tell you about is the Columbus Community Forum, and believe me it is certainly something to talk about. All Columbus is talking about it. Why? It's this way. Last Fall when the chapter was revived, some of the brothers felt that the general public had the idea that the fraternity is purely a social organization. With the thought in mind that something ought to be done to change this opinion, a brother suggested that the chapter have a committee on Public Opinion; its duty being to keep the chapter informed on this matter. Another brother asked, '"Why can't we shape that opinion ourselves?" Then came the idea of the Public Forum. It took. A Forum Committee, of which Brother G. A. Steward is general chairman and Brother John G. Turner director, was appointed to arrange the program. The first speaker, Bro. Joseph Himes, Jr., spoke on "American Minorities in a Time of a Crisis." A very large crowd came out to hear Mr. L. M. Shaw, director of the Bureau of Crime Prevention, speak on "Can Criminals Be Cured?" For the third meeting, March 27, the thinking people of Columbus packed one of the largest churches to hear Assistant Attorney General of Ohio, Elsie Austin, speak on "The Fine Points of Doing Something About It." She dealt with the Civil Rights Bill. Such a large crowd came out that one of the brothers has expressed the fear that the Forum is becoming a social event. For April, Mr. Albon L. Holsey is to speak on "Negro Sharecroppers." Dr. Peter S. Odegarde, professor of political science at O. S. U., will speak on "Forces That Mould Public Opinion." The last meeting will be in the form of a panel discussion on "The Ohio Civil Rights Bill." In connection with this an essay contest on "How to Get Public Opinion Behind the Civil Rights Bill" is being conducted. A great deal of the credit, the largest portion, for the success of the Forum goes to Bro. Turner, who has worked very hard in getting the programs outlined and in putting out a two-page paper on each meeting. He spoke over the radio on Feb. 22 in the interest of the Forum. A condensation of the speaker's remarks appears in the local press a week before the meeting. Much credit also goes to the brothers in the chapter who are willing to forego all social activities in order that there will be sufficient funds for this undertaking. The chapter has also received support from other Greek letter organizations. Last but not least is the fact that we have proved to the public that colored people can be on time. The Forum meets each fourth Sunday at 4:00 p. m.; not about four. At each meeting, Brother Turner walks to the stage, accompanied by the speaker, at 3:57 p. m. People begin to arrive at 3:30 and by 4:00 there is a scarcity of seats. These meetings will be resumed next fall. Fraternally, BARBEE WM. DURHAM.
Greetings and Felicitations from Iota Lambda! The brothers in "ole Naptown" are coming to life in a strange and foreign land. President Grayson, upon his return from "Noo Awleens," brought to us some very illuminating facts. Iota Lambda extends congratulations to all who had a hand in the proceedings of our most outstanding convention. This chapter is doing all possible to make Alpha felt in the State of Indiana. Our program includes far-reaching activities. In an attempt to reach brothers who have various conflicting interests, our program has social as well as serious aspects. During the month of February our activity was a dinner-recital. In addition, to a very lovely repast, for which we are very much indebted to Brother Bannister and his committee, Brothers LaVerne Newsome, Violinist, Norman Merrifield, Pianist, and Arnold "Bing" Bannister, Soloist, rendered various selections in their particular fields. In March, the interfraternity basketball league got under way. Alpha played Kappa, March 25, and Omega, April 1. In spite of the fact that the other two fraternities appeared to have very strong teams, such stalwart satellites as Bros. George DeCoursey, George Gray, "Bing" Bannister, John Mansefield, Grant Hawkins and Norman Merrifield saw action. In a more serious vein, permit Iota Lambda to call attention to some very important strides made by the individual brothers connected with this chapter. First, we doff our hats to Brother Joseph Carroll, who has recently received his Ph. D. degree from Ohio State University; second, we pause to congratulate Brother Grant Hawkins who was recently appointed to a position with the Bituminous Coal Commission; third, Brother Spurling Clark has been elevated to the position of hospital pharmacist at the Methodist Hospital, and fourth, Brother George Gray has been appointed as an accountant with the Housing Unit, with headquarters at the Lockfield Gardens. Last but not least, we take this opportunity to congratulate Brother George DeCoursey. For 'twas he that cupid captured during the Christmas holidays, and was married down in Sunny Florida. Your reporter will be seeing you through the eye of The Sphinx next time. JONATHAN W. GILES. o
DELTA LAMBDA CHAPTER Baltimore, Maryland Dear Brothers: Brothers of Delta Lambda are continuing to take thenplace in the rising sun of Alphadom. By the time you read this the annual formal will have taken place. Plans are being made for a gala function, and every one is looking forward to the "Alpha formal" with great expectations. Not only do the brothers of Delta Lambda have their -place in the social world, but they are also dominating
May, 1938
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ALPHA OMICRON LAMBDA CHAPTER, PITTSBURGH, PENNA.
â&#x20AC;˘MRBHBHHS
ALPHA OMICRON LAMBDA CHAPTER in educational, civic and political affairs of Baltimore, "the gateway to the South." The educational field of this section is dominated by Bro. D. 0. W. Holmes, the first colored president of Morgan College; and Bro. Miles Conner, the principal of the Fannie Coppin Nojrjmal School. Bro. Holmes, who was formerly of Howard University, has revolutionized affairs in staid Baltimore since his stay here. Among the younger brothers who are taking their place in the world of affairs are Bros. Rufus Hackett and David Whitfield, two of the more successful life insurance brokers; Fred and Maurice Adams, Maurice Doles, Al Burwell and other young doctors are busy curing the sick; while Bob Young takes care of their mistakes. Bro. Young by the way, is an undertaker. There are brothers galore taking their place at the head of the business and civic affairs. Among these are Bios. W. T. Dixon, Howard Murphy, Furman Templeton, Woodley Lawrence and others. Fraternally yours, ALLEN H. VESSELLS. o T. N. T. (This 'N* That) Did you know that Bro. C. C. Jackson was recently promoted to supervisor of the Playground Athletic League
and to use the words of Bro. Jackson, "With the additional compensation, too." Bro. "Pat" Murphy showed this staid town a brand new one when he "threw" his "Freedom Party" following his divorce from the beautiful Waltye, his wife, recently. Take your time, brothers, the line forms to the right. Cigars are in order. Bro. "Bob" Young is to marry the lovely Alice King in June. Congratulations. Bro. Dave Whitefield is known as a real all-around man. He not only is one of the more successful young insurance brokers of the city, but he is also giving a lot of time to other worthwhile projects as evidenced by his work with the N. A. A. C. P. the local housing commission and the National Negro Congress. If you think this makes him a "dud" just visit one of his parties sometime. Bro. Chester can vouch for them.
BETA EPSILON CHAPTER A. & T. College Greetings, Brothers: 'Tis the voice of Beta Epsilon once again after being absent from the columns of our dear old Sphinx for some time; nevertheless, we have been holding up the standards of Alpha Phi Alpha, in carrying out earth's and heaven's grand command.
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Since our last writing six brothers have been fortunate in crossing the burning sands into the land of Alphadom The neophytes are: Brothers Harold Lash, Molten Zackary, George A. Sadler, Carter W. Foster, Edwin Thorpe and yours truly. The chapter has been making rapid progress in carrying out the program outlined at the beginning of the school year. Two weeks ago we had what was known as "Alpha Week-End," which included our annual formal dance and the crowning of Miss Beta Epsilon, the winner of the popularity contest sponsored by the chapter. During intermission Miss Beta Epsilon was presented a beautiful cup for having sold the highest number of votes. Saturday we enjoyed an elaborate matinee dance given by the Sphinx Club. Our past week-end activities will long be remembered and cherished by the brothers, because there was all the glamour and color connected with it that made it an ideal Alpha week-end. At present there are seventeen brothers in our chapter; as usual we are active in extra-curricula activities, and are leading all fraternities in scholarship. Our Sphinx Club includes the best material on the campus. We are now making plans for our annual Educational Program to be held May 2-8. We hope to present one of the best programs of this type ever to be given here. In closing, the brothers of Beta Epsilon wish you all success, good health, and happiness. Fraternally yours, GARRETT WHYTE. P. S. Beta Epsilon will celebrate its 10th anniversary next Spring. o
•
ALPHA MU LAMBDA Knoxville, T e n n e s s e e The activities of Alpha Mu Lambda experienced no adverse reaction from the initiation of its program for the present year. Some changes were made in the official staff by way of transfers and job exchange. To guide the destinies of the fraternity, the balloting revealed the following results. President, Bro. N. A. Henderson; vice president, Bio. Clarence Graham; recording secretary, Bro. J. I. Seals; financial secretary, Bro. Leonard Jackson; treasurer, Bro. C A. Cowan; chaplain, Bro. Otis Hogue; Sphinx editor, your scribe, M. D. Senter. The sergeant-at-arms was not elected because a few brothers were fertile with excuse making. Bro. N. A. Henderson, known for leadership and work, made his famous inspirational speech: "Well, brothers, we have a year's work ahead of us and there is no better time to begin it than now." Since early December, the brothers have found thenrecreational hour on the hardwood floor very fine for the promotion of fellowship and keeping alive the fraternal spirit. Though the other fraternal teams have answered the call of Alpha for this wholesome sport, in the final intra-fraternal contest, Alpha Mu Lambda bowed as good sports, but with reluctance to the Omegas. With the close of the basketball season the recreational committee makes plans for indoor and lawn tennis and playground baseball. Many thanks to our national secretary, Brother Joseph H. B. Evans. He came to Knoxville on duties connected with the Tennessee Valley Authority and knocked three home runs. In addition to the accomplishment of his gov-
May, 1938
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ernment duties, he accepted the invitation of the PanHellenic Council to conduct its monthly forum, and renewed life in Alpha Mu Lambda, with his great fraternal and inspirational talk, at a feast in his honor, in the rustic dining hall at Brabson's Park. Bro. Evans' talk to the brothers has borne fruits. Delinquent and truant brothers, on the following meeting night, were present with check book and purse. If there are other chapters in need of a specialist in chapter diseases, t r y Brother Evans. He has the right prescription. The Knoxville public turned out to the forum in large numbers. Business and professional men, homekeepers, laborers and the man of the street are praising, in worthy terms, Brother Evans' masterful address, which was delivered at the Mt. Zion Baptist Church. Why make sport of a convict? The Deltas announced their annual jabberwock. Clubs, sororities and fraternities became interested. They were here from as far away as Chattanooga. Stunts, pantomines, skits, contortions, orchestras and what have you, kept the judges and the audience in laughter, amusement and uproars until number fourteen—"The Question Mark." Led by Brothers Irvin and Hogue, singing melodiously "That Lonesome Road" and "Water Boy," the others, clad only in prison stripes, began a rhythmic beat with twelve pound sledgehammers on the huge rocks, upon the stage. Brother Johnson was too severe as a prison foreman. One by one, the prisoners fell out, dusk came, all were out. The lone surviving convict, Bro. Jackson, attempted escape, but the straight shooting of Brother Johnson "felled" him. The audience was spellbound. The judges declared first prize—Alpha Mu Lambda. The Question Mark the title of our stunt, showed the comedy of folly. With immediate plans for our Spring activities, we sign fraternally our chapter's best wishes. Yours fraternally, MONROE D. SENTER.
BETA DELTA LAMBDA Daytona Beach, Fla. The youngest chapter in the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Beta Delta Lambda, was set up by Brother Abram Simpson in Daytona Beach, Florida, during the Christmas season. The following brothers are the charter members of the new chapter: Abram L. Simpson, acting president of Bethune-Cookman College, author of the Alpha Phi Alpha Hymn and a former national officer; James A. Colston, principal of the high school at Ormond, Florida; Harold White McCoo, director of music and Ernest Dyett, director of religious education, Bethune-Cookman College; H. E. Bartley, physician; J. Seth Hills, physician; C. J. Greene, agency director, Atlanta Life Insurance Company; and P. S. Peterson, director physical education, Campbell Street High School, Daytona Beach, Florida. The offices of president, secretary and treasurer were filled by C. L. Greene, James A. Colston and J. Seth Hill, respectively. Brother Greene has been sent since by his company to take over the Birmingham district of the Atlanta Life Insurance Company. Elevated to the presidency to fill out the unexpired term was Harold White • McCoo, formerly vice president. Brother J. Seth Hills has been the continuous host to the fraternity at all of its meetings.
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ALPHA PI LAMBDA CHAPTER Winston-Salem, N. C. Brothers in Alpha Phi Alpha, Greetings: The members of Alpha Pi Lambda chapter are kept very busy trying at all times to keep abreast with issues that present themselves from time to time, and maintain the leadership for A. Phi A. Since the last edition of the Sphinx we have had some very interesting meetings. The February social meeting was held at the home of Brother "Shep" Wright. The hosts for this occasion were Brothers Coaxum and your correspondent. Some discussion was given to the preparation for our educational program to be held next month. This was followed by the "regular social events." Our March social meeting was held at the home of Brother A. H. Anderson. The hosts at this time were Brothers Anderson, Carter and Pitts. Plans were discussed for a social meeting and inviting the wives and sweethearts of the brothers. This met the approval of all the brothers, so we anticipate this event in the immediate future. Brother Hubert Eaton has affiliated himself with our chapter after having received his master in zoology from the University of Michigan this semester. Brother Eaton is an outstanding athlete, especially in tennis and basketball. He has achieved several championships in the game of tennis; an ex-champion of the Junior National; C. I. A. A.; North Carolina champion; and the city champion of Winston-Salem. He was an outstanding man on the basketball court for Smith University a couple of seasons ago. At present he is on the faculty at Lincoln Academy, Kings Mountain, N. C. We are happy to welcome him back home and to this chapter. Brother Leander Hill appeared as guest soloist with the North Carolina Symphony Orchestra here last month. His rendition of "For You" brought the audience to great acclamation for several encoresâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;only a master could have such a gift. Brother J. W. Holmes, who heads the department of English at Teachers College, presented "Taming of the Shrew" to the largest audience that attended Teachers College during the week of plays. Brother Holmes is helping us carry the banner of Alpha Phi Alpha with his literary ability. During the National Negro Health Week, Brother Meroney made a talk over Station WSJS on the subject, "Oral Mouth Hygiene," his voice could have been taken for Edwin C. Hill. So keep your dials set to 1300 and listen for Brother "Bill" Meroney. The seventh annual oratorical contest sponsored by the Alpha Pi Lambda chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity will be held at the Atkins High School. Final preparations are being made for May 6. The general theme this year is "The Negro Faces America's Social Problems." The speakers and their subjects are as follows: "The Negro and His Economic Destiny," Leon Fulp; "The Negro and His Church," Broadus Sawyer; "The Negro and Juvenile Delinquency," Cleester Colman; "The Negro and the C. I. 0.," George Ragsdale; '"The Relations of the Isms to the Negro," Billy Friende; "The Negro and His Educational Problems," Catherine Chester; "The Negro and His Political Rights," Acy Watts; "The Negro and his Health Problems," Horton Nowlin. Three medals will be given to winners of the contest. The medals will be
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gold, silver and bronze. Brother A. H. Anderson, principal of Columbian Heights Elementary School, will preside. Brother G. F. Newell, an instructor in biology a t Atkins High School, outstanding in civic and religious affairs, is in charge of the contest for the seventh consecutive year. There are other brothers who are doing an appreciable amount of good for the chapter and fraternity, but time won't permit me to mention them at this writing. However, we will keep the banner going for A. Phi A. Fraternally, BILL CRAWFORD. o
UPSILON CHAPTER Kansas University Greetings, Brothers: Though Upsilon has been conspiciously absent from these pages this year, it is not because the brothers and the chapter have failed to do our part for Alpha. So let's go back to the beginning of the Fall semester and get a hasty review of our activities. School was started off as usual with a bang, and the Alpha weiner roast which, of course, was a success, both socially and because it netted us 14 new members for our Sphinx Club. Not many weeks had passed before we were able to present two new brothers, Brothers Gilbert Alexander and Earl West. Our social chairman, Clifford Spottsville, received many congratulations on his excellent decorations for the Homecoming Party. And then came the election of officers. Brother Arthur McLendon won the coveted office of president. Other officers were, Ezra Greer, vice president; corresponding secretary, Herbert Voorhies; recording secretary, James Tribue; steward, Ephriam Ewing; king of freshm'en, Francis Herndon and William Spearman, associate editor of the Sphinx. On December 17 Upsilon was 20 years old. In honor of this occasion we gave our annual Founders' Day banquet. Many old Upsilonites were back and those that found it impossible to come sent their congratulations. Early in February our Sphinx Club held open house. This was such a success that the Sphinx Club decided to give another entertainment soon. Later on in the month we defeated the Kappas (as usual) in a great game of basketball starring Ezra Greer and Robert Jordan. The score? Oh, yes, just 39 to 33! So you see, brothers, while we have been absent from the Sphinx, we have always been going forward. It does us proud to announce that Brother Cordell Meeks has been appointed assistant clerk in the Law School of the University of Kansas. Brother Meeks is the first Negro to be appointed to this position in the history of the University. Scholarship, personality and ability were among the qualifications required for this position. We have with us Brother Lloyd Hughes, of Alpha Epsilon, who is working on his Doctorate; and Brother Cordell Norman of Beta, who will soon receive his Masters. We started off the new semester with four new Sphinxmen to add to our very lively Sphinx Club of which we are very proud. In closing Upsilon wishes to congratulate two brothers who were formerly members of Upsilon. First, we want
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to tell Brother Doxie Wilkerson how glad we were to hear that he was appointed to head the summer session at Howard. Also we wish to congratulate Brother Sherman Scruggs on his appointment to the presidency of Lincoln U. at Jefferson City, Mo. It is by such men as these that the banner of Upsilon and Alpha will ever be held aloft. We pledge our loyalty to the new administration and promise that you will hear from us more often in the future. Fraternally yours, WILLIAM SPEARMAN. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;
o
PI LAMBDA ENTERTAINS DEANS AND REGISTRARS IN LITTLE ROCK Louis M. Gray, Chapter Editor The Pi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha served a? host at a unique smoker on March 31, 1938, in honor of the visiting delegates to the National Intercollegiate Association of Deans and Registrars of Negro Schools. The affair was a momentous occasion for several reasons. First, the chapter was honored for the first time with the presence of the National President, Brother Charles Wesley; secondly, the august body consisted of representatives of all the national fraternities. The rooms were beautifully decorated in gold and black. The crepe paper hanging in canopy fashion with emblems of Alpha symmetrically, carefully and thoughtfully arranged, making the decorations superb. Brother I. T. Gillam, principal of Gibbs Grammar School and President of the Pi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha served as master of ceremonies. In his unbiased way, he asked Dean F. D. Wilkinson of Howard University, to speak for his brothers, the Kappas. It goes without saying, Dean Wilkinson was a master of the situation. He left an indelible impression upon the minds of the men when he said in so many words, "Be a man irrespective of the insignia upon your chest." Dr. A. O. Wilson, presiding elder of the A. M. E. Church, madte a brief commentation on the uniqueness of the affair He is identified with the Kappas. Mr. P. L. Dorman, insurance man, came to the front with flying colors for the Phi Beta Sigmas. His philosophy of life was sound and timely. Professor B. A. Lloyd of Philander Smith College, spoke convincingly on modes of living. He truly represented the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Professor Hunter of Scipio A. Jones High School, Basilus of Omega Psi Phi, gave a brief, but thoughtful, dissertation on the avocations of men. Our National President, Brother Charles Wesley, gave the principal address of the evening. It is a timeworn, proverbial saying, that every knee must bow and every tongue must confess the truth, that Brother Wesley literally "shot up the town." He said in part, "That the time has come when men of all fraternities and all walks of life, must come together and think and work for the common good. He was fortunate in having undivided attention as he paraded his philosophy of life. Brother J. R. Booker, attorney at law, gave a toast to Alpha in his masterful way.
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ALPHA DELTA LAMBDA CHAPTER Memphis, Tennessee Greetings, Brothers: It has been some time since you have heard from the boys on "Beale Street," but we are still carrying on. There was quite a representative group on hand at the New Orleans convention and what a time they report. Some of the good brothers are still awed by the wonderful spectacle of so many Creole beauties. Wouldn't be surprised at all if some of them find their way back there very soon. Since our last writing about the greatest thing we have achieved was that we were successful in having returned to our city the editorship of our official organ and electing to the Executive Council one of our undergraduate brothers. Me thinks we have done fine and have quite a lot to crow about. Well, our new staff of officers are getting off to a great start under the leadership of Pres. Hugh M. Gloster, English instructor at LeMoyne College. His program for the year is a wide-awake one. Included in his staff of workers are some of his co-workers, Prof. W. W. Gibson, who heads up our educational program that promises to cover a wide area; Atty. A. A. Latting, professor in the Political Science Department, with Bro. Coach Adkins are his able assistants. Brother Latting has returned from an extensive tour in connection with the school and Brother Adkins has hit the road where he has now matriculated at Ohio University to further his educational ambitions. We wish him much luck. Two recent comers to our fold in the person of Bro. R. Earl Bland and Bro. Atty. Prentice Thomas have made wonderful strides in their respective fields. Bro. Dr. Bland is a surgeon of the highest rank and has gained considerable practice in our city. To our pleasant surprise, Bro. Dr. C. J. Bates, our dentist, came to a meeting although we did have to carry a meeting to him before. Quite a few visitors have passed through our city recently. Our distinguished Bro. Marshall Shepard, a member of the Pennsylvania Legislature, spoke to a capacity house a few Sundays ago, was given a tremendous introduction by our Bro. Dr. Bland. Bro. Shepard, as you know, is the one Southern Democrats walked out on at their national convention a few years ago. As usual he "carried" his audience with him. The "gang" got together afterwards and swapped some beautiful yarns. Added to our list of married brothers is Brother Percy Browne of Geeter High School. He was recently married to Miss Jones, a lovely lady. You know, one of the Jones girls. And that leaves our ranks of single brothers with only a few brothers left. I might say, Bros. Adkins, Brinkley, Mebane, Owens, Russell, Swingler, Tarpley Brothers (almost gone though), Prentice Thomas, Williams and your correspondent are the only ones left to take care of all this flurry of southern belles. We are doing our best, though. At this time Brother Thos. Hayes who injected himself into one too many affairs during the convention in New Orleans is recuperating from illness that has kept him confined to his bed for nearly two months. We hope to have him out again soon. His brother, Bro. Taylor Hayes,
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has kept the firm's business going nicely while Bro. "Tom" was indisposed. Everybody must come and see Bro. Ed Jones' new dream house. I am taking the liberty of inviting you myself. It is one of the local show places on the outskirts of the city. He, his charming wife and daughter add a touch to the surrounding that must be seen to be appreciated. Brothers King, Latham, Morris and Smith of Booker Washington High School, will always be among that number that add dignity by the new cars they are sporting. Bro. King has two. Nice going, I must say. Then there is Bro. White, our lost treasurer, who has been found again, says he has been putting most of his time preparing his new son for Alphadom. Well, I guess that excuse will let him out. Bro. Jesse Williams, our only government employe, is also sporting another "struggle" buggy. Bro Owens, our efficient financial secretary, really has a foolproof system. Well, that's about all the gossip on the various brothers with the exception of myself and I will let you draw your own ideas about me. Our educational program this year promises to be one of the best yet. We have about two weeks of full activity climaxing it with our public program with Hon. Bro. Chas. W. Anderson, of the Kentucky Legislature, delivering our main address on Sunday, April 24. It really promises to be good. We, in conjunction with Pi Lambda of Little Rock, are presenting Miss Alpha Phi Alpha sometime soon. Watch out for her. One of our former good brothers was called home on a sad mission recently in the person of Bro. Arthur Bowles, Jr., of Washington, D. C. Our sympathy goes to Bro. Bowles in the loss of his grandmother, a very fine elderly lady. We all miss her greatly. Our regards to Bro. Jack Humes who is with you. All the space allotted to our chapter has been taken, so with best wishes to all and to remind our General President that he should never come as close to Beale Street as Little Rock and not stop and " g a s " with us. We are hoping that the Summer will bring us together. Fraternally, J. EDWARD COTTON, Corresponding Secretary. P. S. Any corporation president's job, bank executive, or what have you for the Summer, just let me know. I might even consider driving a "dray." J. E. C.
BETA UPSILON Alabama State College Beta is still going strong; doing her1 bit to uphold Alphadom in this vicinity. Our president, Bro. Childs, has just returned from a successful debating tour. He brought us greetings from Beta Mu at Kentucky State College and from Beta Xi at Memphis. Beta Upsilon wishes to thank those Brothers for the kindness shown Bro. Childs. We have just emerged from Winter Quarter examinations with favorable results. Beta Upsilon placed five of its members on the "Scroll of Honor." These members are: Brothers Morris Mosely, Louis Hill, Eddie Mitchell, James Beatty and Edward Caldwell. There were other good Brothers who missed this honor by inches. Beta Upsilon considers this just a step toward her scholastic goal. It will not be long before Beta Upsilon can say that she is represented 100% on the "Scroll of Honor".
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UPSILON CHAPTER, ALABAMA STATE TEACHERS COLLEGE Members of Beta Upsilon Chapter, Alabama State Teachers College, Montgomery, Ala. Sitting left to right, they are: Brothers Caldwell, McCorvey, Childs, Mitchell, Hill, and Jones. Second row: Brothers Mosely, Battle, Beatty, Graham, and Simpson. Standing, left to right: Brothers McGolthan, Smiley, Dunn, Crenshaw, Wright, and Blair. Following the tension of examinations the Brothers of Alpha and their guest, the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, and the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority were soared into the mystic realms of temporary felicity by gliding the light fantastic toe to tunes played by the "Bama State Collegians" a t the Annual Alpha Phi Alpha Ball. Amid the dusky flickering lights the Brothers in their formal garb guided the beautiful damsels across the polished floor of Tullibody Auditorium. Some of the graduate Brothers to return for this gala event were Brother Allen Gooden and Brother Wayman Matherson. The dance was a huge success as Alpha affairs usually are. The Graduate Chapter, Alpha Upsilon Lambda, and Beta Upsilon are combining to observe "Education for Citizenship Week" with a series of programs here at the college. We are planning to make this an unforgettable week in this city. We are hoping that each Chapter's program meets with much success. Beta Upsilon bids you adieu 'til we meet again. Fraternally, EDWARD CALDWELL, Associate Editor.
ALPHA PSI CHAPTER Lincoln University (Mo.) Greetings Brothers in Alpha: The renowned Alphas a t Lincoln University are still widely known for their great achievements. The fraternal spirit that is so requisite in any great organization is abundant in the members here at dear old Alpha Psi. Congratulations to the two neophyte brothers who were recently initiated into this great fraternity. Both are young men of the very best type and serious in their en-
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deavors. Bro. John Harvey who hails from Youngstown, Ohio, and Bro. Morris Fountain who comes from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, were the two fortunate young men to enter into Alphadom. Both are mainstays on the Lincoln U. basketball team and did much toward maintaining a place for the Tigers in the realms of basketball. At the culmination of initiation Thursday night, April 14, the Alphas gathered on the quadrangle and in spite of a light, but continuous drizzling rain, sang the national Alpha Hymn. Aa A P A design made of wire around which cotton was wrapped, was ignited simultaneously with the inception of the singing of the Hymn. This novelty idea, the flaming A P A was the result of the efforts of Bros. John Mitchell, Ferdinand Clark, Richard Johnson and Shelby Freeman. After the celebration on the quadrangle the Brothers attended a banquet given in honor of the Neophyte Brothers, a t the home of Mrs. Cross. Mrs. Cross whom we consider as our Alpha mother was presented with a gift as a token of gratitude for the kindness that she has shown toward the members of Alpha Psi. The Menu: Hot Rolls
Butter Preserves Combination Salad Smothered Chicken Candied Yams Coffee Ice Cream Pie Brothers Talbot, Hartshorn and Cotton, members Beta Zeta Lambda Chapter, recently established here, gave inspiring talks to the undergradute brothers. Banquets and feasts seem to be a common occurrence with the group at Lincoln. The A K A Sorority gave a Buffet Supper and Dance for the Alphas following the Banquet at Mrs. Cross! Friday night the annual Pan-Hellenic Banquet was given in honor of all the Greeks and Neophytes after which every one attended a dance given in the gymnasium. NEWS AT RANDOM The Alphas dominated the Golden Gloves Boxing Tournament held last month in the L. U. Gym. Bro Garland Robinson captured the middleweight title and Bro. Ode "Kid" Taylor the featherweight title. Brother Lionel Newsome center on the Alpha basketball team and Brother Cotton forward on the Faculty team were selected as member of the All-Star Intra-mural team. Sphinxman "Bullet" Hyatt earned the position of guard on this team also. Brother Al Branham, the St. Louis flash is to be commended for the two beautiful songs that he created. "Fight For Dear Old A P Aâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Alpha Psi" is just the type <xf song required to give us the incentive to undertake more arduous tasks. The Sweetheart song written by Brother Branham represents the lovely and divine sentiments of each member of Alpha Psi. Thanks Brother Branham, Thanks! Well! well! the Sphinx Club again walked away with annual Jabberwock given by the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Last year, the skit "Trusting in You" stole the show and the first prize. This year the skit "Italy on Trial" was good enough to turn the trick. We, the members of Alpha Psi are truly proud of the achievement^ made by the Sphinx Club. As a means of encouraging scholarship, the Alphas are procuring a gold key to be given to the Sphinxman who
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obtains the highest standing over a given period of time. A magnificent gold trophy will be given by the Alphas to the most outstanding track star competing in the Annual Track Meet which is to be held here in May. This accomplishment is something that no other organization has attempted to perform. With the coming of graduation, Alpha Psi will be minus of sixteen brothers. We shall miss the services of these men who have striven to keep the name of Alpha ever aloft. Fraternally y6urs, ODE "KID" TAYLOR, First Associate Editor. o
BETA GAMMA LAMBDA CHAPTER Richmond, Va. Greetings, Brothers: Beta Gamma Lambda extends greetings to all brothers in Alpha Phi Alpha. The chapter entered its new year with that energy and enthusiasm typical of Alpha men everywhere. New officers elected were: President, Brother E. M. Burke; vice president, Brother John Moore; secretary, Brother David Graves; assistant secretary, Brother Leslie Hill; treasurer, Dr. G. M. Ramsey; associate editor of the Sphinx, Brother James H. Payne; chaplain, Dr. Ellerson; sergeant-at-arms, Brother Milton Hill. The chapter held a lively banquet at Brad and Bill's Cafe at which time the officers were installed and very ably by Brother Professor Riley who also delivered an inspiring and thought-provoking address at our February meeting. Our meetings have been eagerly looked forward to by the brothers who represent a truly cosmopolitan group of Richmond's leading civic, business and professional men. Our president has consistently scheduled a well balanced program of varied interests. Besides the regular suppers, we have been entertained by home movies, photographed, edited and projected by Brother B. F. Kersey. Beta Gamma Lambda was hcnored in receiving the membership of Brother Archie Richardson, who is assistant supervisor of Negro rural education for Virginia. We doff our hats to: Brother Wiley Hall for the splendid help he is giving to the Negroes of Richmond in finding and opening jobs for them through his position as secretary of the Richmond Urban League. Brother John Moore, who in addition to his duties as professor of Romance Languages at Virginia Union University, finds time to direct the activities of the Union Players, who recently presented one of Brother Moore's "brain children." Brother Howell Nixon and Brother Henderson for their leadership in the Richmond Teachers' Association and Negro Forum. Brothers Ransome and Foster for their new educational achievements. Of outstanding interest to all Alpha men should be the presentation of the Silver Beaver Award from the National Council, Boy Scouts of America, to Brother Charles T. Russell, who is the first Negro within the territory of the Richmond Area Council to receive such an award. Brother Dr. R. P. Daniel, president of Shaw Univer-
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sity, and former member of Beta Gamma Lambda Chapter, introduced the mayor's representative who presented the award. Beta Gamma Lambda wishes you success in your program for the year. Fraternally yours, JAMES H. PAYNE.
BETA ALPHA LAMBDA Jersey City, N. J. I do not feel that I can "put over" to you, Brothers of Alpha, the real spirit of ALPHA BETA LAMBDA. However, I must say this: Though we can boast of only fifteen brothers—to the man—we are ACTIVE. Every brother feels and wishes me to inform you that the greatest fraternity on earth—ALPHA PHI ALPHA—has established in Jersey City, its most progressive chapter. Brothers, we are doing things and expect to go places." Throughout the Winter, we have enjoyed the very highest type of social and intellectual programs arranged by our own Brother Arthur W. Boswell, who, as a fitting climax to such, read his own interpretation of "Communism." It follows: "COMMUNISM AS I SEE IT" By Arthur W. Boswtell Karl Marx, the recognized father of this theory, said: "Communism is a declaration of a permanent revolution in which the dictatorship of the proletariat is a necessary transitional step to the abolition of class distinction in general." Marx did not consider Communism the ultimate goal. Lenin, the great Russian, made Communism the ultimate goal; Capitalism, the great barrier to Communism, and the State as the great organ to sponsor Communism. Marx believed in the abolition of the State since it was the organ of class domination. Lenin developed and made more concrete the doctrines of Marx in a manner more applicable to the new conditions of the struggle of the "" proletariat in the period of imperialism. He believed that only through mass revolution could such a theory be put in practice. Like any other system of belief, the rise of Communism is the outcome of its environment, and its acceptance by large bodies of men is no more unnatural than their acceptance of other creeds. It commands a devoted service in the world today of which no man is entitled to underestimate the significance. Those who reject its principles must admit the large degree of truth in the indictment that it brings against the present social order. Neither our methods of production nor our principles of distribution are capable of explanation in terms of social justice. The gain of living is denied to the majority of those who toil. It is in such mood of doubt that the masses meet the idealism of the Communist faith. From this we say that a great good from Communism is its tendency to alter the present social order by concession larger in scope and profundity than any ruling class has so far been willing to make by voluntary act. The compelling strength of Communism is that it has a faith as vigorous and as fanatic and compelling as any in the history of religion. It offers dogmas to those whom scepticism troubles; it brings to its believers the certitude which all great religions have conferred; above all, perhaps, it implants in its adherents the belief in the ul-
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timate redemption. If it is said that like other religions, it destroys and persecutes, it can make the answer— which mankind has always found convincing—that it destroys and persecutes in the name of truth. Communism has made its way by its idealism—not its realism; by its spiritual promise—not its materialistic prospect. It is a creed in which there is intellectual error, moral blindness, social perversity. However, the answer to the new faith is not the persecution of those who worship in its sanctuary, but the proof that those who do not share its convictions, can scan a horizon, not less splendid in the prospect it envisions, no less compelling in the allegiance it invokes. It is a caricature of truth to assume that any plan formulated by man can have universal validity or be final. Communism forgets the complexity of the world. Communists should recognize that an economic mechanism, which may be right for Russia may be wrong for America. Communism, as we know it, reasons too exclusively from its limited environmental setting and hence, is trying an unreasonable reformation of the world. Communism is also at fault in its rigid acceptance of dogmatic atheism. It is not surprising that men brought up in Russia in contact with an orthodox religion supported and controlled by a dying Czar's autocracy should oppose all religion. For, Church and State joined hands in old Russia to crush the masses. Communism destroys and persecutes religion in the name of truth; but, in trying to destroy all that goes under the name of religion, it may in reality, be attacking part of Truth itself. A formula of cooperation is higher than a formula of power through bloodshed. Here again the dogmatism of Communists who, because they once succeeded in winning power through revolution, thereupon preach revolution as the only road to truth, beauty, and happiness to all, is extremely dubious. The technique of violence and bloodshed may inevitably perpetuate various classes rather than annihilate all save one. Such a philosophy is unfair to other classes and tends to build up hatred in the minds of the dorminant and oppressed groups. The reaction against hatred is divisive; it creates classes. Communism seems to have completely ignored the individual in its philosophy just as Capitalism may have gone too far in ignoring social philosophy. If this is true we expect the slow pressure of societal evolution forcing America into collective channels and Russia into more of individualism." Brothers, contributions of this nature have led to a lively interchange of ideas and expressions during the Winter. Affairs of a social nature have also been included in our activities. On April 7, 1938 the brothers were hosts to their friends in the Metropolitan area at a grand recessional ball given at the Renaissance Ballroom in New York City. The costumes of the guests were reminiscent of "yesteryear." Prizes were awarded for costumes and for lucky numbers. The glamorous floor show from several "hot spots of Harlem," kept the guests agog all evening. As BETA ALPHA LAMBDA so desired, our guests left the Renaissance singing the praises of ALPHA PHI ALPHA. Fraternally yours, RICHARD L. MARTIN, Associate Editor.
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ALPHA TAU LAMBDA CHAPTER Graduate Chapter Tulsa, Oklahoma Greetings, Brothers: Your correspondent wishes to grace one "corner" of the Sphinx with "Representative Achievements of Chapter Men Since December." I'll begin with Bro. Tolly Harris, Pan-Hellenic councilman, and one of the founders of this chapter. This brother, in company with Bro. C. L. Cole, motored to Wewoka, Oklahoma, last December and set up a graduate chapter. Next, Brothers Greadington, Combs, Moran, Cole and Harris visited our chapter, Beta Kappa, at Langston University and told those promising Alpha Collegiates of what happened in New Orleans. These Alpha Tau Lambda brothers painted such a vivid picture that they threatened to follow them back to Tulsa. Your correspondent headed a committee which arranged a Founder's Day service at Vernon A. M. E. Church March 20. This was a worthy achievement for the chapter. Bro. Harris reviewed the founding date on this occasion and Rev. W. A. Jennings delivered an inspirational as well as educational sermon. Bro. E. W. Clark, chapter director, was recently voted head of the newly organized Greenwood Chamber of Commerce. This is an organization of a civic nature and gives much promise for the future welfare of the group on this side of town. The next achievement involves Bro. L. H. Williams, Crown Drug Store manager, and former officer in the local chapter. Bro. Williams is chairman of a "paint-up, clean-up, fix-up, plant-up" campaign of the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce. Bro. Robe.-t Fairchild, former correspondent, was campaign manager for the victorious Dr. T. A. Penny, elected Tulsa mayor. Another achievement brings into the limelight Fred Parker, chapter vice president; Jesse Greadington; President A. T. Morgan; Regional Director F. Melvin Payne, and E. W. Clarke, who motored to Oklahoma City and arranged for the organization of a graduate chapter there. Bro. E. W. Woods, chapter director, is celebrating his silver jubilee as principal of Booker Washington High School for 25 years. Bro. H. S. Hugh, active member of Alpha Tau Lambda and author of Personal Opinion, in the Oklahoma Eagle, has been English teacher in Booker Washington for 20 years. Yours fraternally, CLIFFORD JOHNSON, Sphinx Correspondent. o
CHI CHAPTER Meharry Medical College Brothers in Alpha, Greetings: As this bit of news goes to press, we here in Nashville are still reveling over our joint banquet and ball a few
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days ago. On the evening of April 1, the brothers of Alpha Chi, of Fisk, Beta Omicron of Tennessee State, Tau Lambda of the city of Nashville, and Chi of Meharry Medical College united as one host and sponsored the grandest affair ever staged in "The Athens of the South" since the silver anniversary convention of our National Organization in 1935. Covers were laid for 125 brothers and their wives, sweethearts or any other lucky and charming lady for the evening. At eight o'clock we sat to the melodies of the Tennessee State Collegiates and devoured a "spread" consisting of olives, gherkins, radishes, nuts, mints, fruit cocktail, broiled chicken and mushrooms, German spinach, stuffed potatoes, wine jelly, hot rolls and butter, heart lettuce, Alpha Phi Alpha ice cream, Alpha Phi Alpha cakes and demi-tasse. And, brothers, there are no words capable of describing the deliciousness of this menu. One must be present to amply appreciate such wholesome array of food. Besides the music, the program, the beauty of the spacious Tennessee State dining hall with its ferns exact and casually placed hither-thither. To even to begin describing our feminine guests would warrant too many descriptive words and, too, our space is limited and besides the Sphinx only averages forty pages. But to go on: I must mention the very timely and brief program that followed the last course. Bro. Walter S. Houston, of Fisk, introduced the toastmaster, Dr. G. N. Adamson, of the faculty of Meharry and a member of the graduate chapter. Bro. C. W. Reeves of the Fisk Jubilee Singers, favored us with "Sylvia," sung in his own wayâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;if you know what I mean. The chapter presidents were then introduced and followed by a saxaphone solo by Edgar Green. Our own National Regional Director, Bro. M. G. Ferguson, introduced the banquet speaker, Bro. Dr. St. Elmo Brady of Fisk University. Miss Grace Wainwright, a very charming and talented Fisk student, closed the banquet with a vocal solo, "Always and Always," and an encore, "Stormy Weather." At ten o'clock we enmass treked across the campus to the dancing hall where we were later joined by a hundred special guests who were especially selected by our untiring and most efficient social committee. This committee consisted of Brothers G. N. Adamson, L. E. Alexander, R. W. Harrison, R. J. Harrington, W. L. DeBose, I. T. Creswell, M. G. Ferguson, S. M. McDew, C. P. Reed, L. C. Turner with Walter S. Houston, chairman. It is, of course, needless to mention that every one had a memorable time. When this news is read fourteen members of Chi will be but a few days from their "doctor's degree." Brothers who are candidates for their degree of Doctors of Medicine are: Brothers Clarence C. Allen, Scott Barrett, Thomas Bass, Isaac B. English, Wm. H. Henderson, Middleton H. Lambright, Edel F. Mcintosh, Alfred W. Pleasants, Riley A. Ransom, George P. Schanck, Lawrence P. Schumake, Joseph N. Thomas and Luins H. Williams. Brother Paul V. Lindveld is candidate for the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery. To these brothers we wish prosperity and God's speed as they go out into the world to practice their noble science for the betterment of mankind. To the brothers of other chapters we wish a pleasant and profitable Summer. Fraternally, MAURICE F. GLEASON, Associate Editor to Sphinx.
May, 1938
THE
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BETA THETA CHAPTER, BLUEFIELD STATE T. COLLEGE
Members of Beta Theta Chapter, Bluefield State Teachers College, Bluefield, West Virginia. Names from left to right, standing:—Brothers Theartric Price, Clarence Robinson, James Pettigrew, Marshall Harris, William Foy, Lee Roy Perry, LeRoy B. Allen, Robert L. Gunn, C. V. Brock, Joseph W. Perry, Clarence Froe, Philip Reed, and Vannie Woods. Sitting, left to right:—Brothers Paul Waller, Willie Burton, Lawrence Watkins, Robert E. Moore, and Taft Johnson.
BETA THETA NEWS NOTES Bluefield State Teachers College Greetings Brothers: Once again Beta Theta sends greetings to all brothers in Alphadom. We hope that the current school term is closing as nicely for all of undergraduate chapters as it is. for us here at Bluefield State. As this is the last writing a majority of the brothers of Beta Theta are saying adieu to undergraduate frat days, for they are on their way 'out into the world." Only seven will be left to keep the old chapter alive for the next school term but they are true Alpha men of indomitable courage. We are very proud to announce the admission of four neophytes into the bond of brotherhood. The brothers who saw the light of the world on April 1 are: Clarence Robinson, Theartric Price, Clarence Froe, and William D. Foy, Jr. These new initiates have joined the brothers in holding up the name.
As a backward look we can say that Beta Theta has forged ahead in campus activities this year as never before. Our first activity was the selling of Xmas seals for the N. A. A. C. P. We sponsored a Memorial Service to the late Brother W. D. Miller. We rushed messages to the U. S. Senate for the recent anti-lynch bill. During the past week we presented a chapel program for Negro Health Week—the principal speaker was brother Dr. Higginbotham of Alpha Zeta Lambda and the program was worked up by brother Taft Johnson, chapter president for next year. At the present time we are busy figuring out a way to win the 2nd Annual Jabberwock of the Deltas in this area. Brother Charles V. Brock has arranged the skit and its the "Dixie Swing" thanks to the good brothers of Alpha Beta at Talladega, Alabama. Our "Go-to-High School—Gd-to-CoIlege" campaign in conjunction with the Educational Program will reach all high schools within a fifty mile radius of the chapter seat.
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The year's activities will terminate with the Alpha Dance to be given late in May. Final arrangements have not been made at this writing but invitations will be circulated and all brothers who find it convenient to come don't want to miss the affair. Brothers Brock and Allen have just returned from a debate trip through Virginia and North Carolina. They encountered teams at Virginia State College and Johnson C. Smith University. Through the Voice of the Sphinx they wish to thank the good brothers of Beta Gamma and Alpha Omicron for the warm hospitality shown. So with many a hearty wish until the next writing we say so long. Fraternally yours, ROBERT E. MOOSE, Associate Editor to the Sphinx. o
XI CHAPTER Wilberforce University Brothers in Alpha Phi Alpha: Xi Chapter sends greeting to associate chapters throughout the country. Since our last communication Xi has had many enthusiastic meetings and has been occupied with important activities. We feel that our chapter, under the leadership of Brother James F. Dunn, has made a very definite amount of progress from the beginning of this year. Our new officers for the coming year are as follows: President, James F. Dunn; Vice President, Eugene Stanley; Secretary, James H. Robinson; Corresponding Secretary, Albert McKee; Assistant Secretary, Thomas South; Treasurer, William Brown; Sergeant-at-Arms, Maurice Barnett; Associate Editor to the Sphinx, Lloyd Parker; Parliamentarian, Charles Taylor, and Chaplain, Sylvester Cousins. The installation of these officers took place on January 26, 1938. Dr. Milton S. J. Wright, Professor of Economics and President of Chi Lambda Chapter, conducted the ceremonies, after which he gave some very inspiring remarks. We feel rather confident that Xi will continue to attain great heights through the cooperation of these new officers. On January 27, 1938, Xi presented Brother Henry Garcia, a junior in the College of Liberal Arts in an Organ Recital of Popular Music assisted by Brother Hubert Byron, vocalist, in Jones Auditorium for the benefit of Founder's Day. Some two-hundred and fifty persons were in attendence. Everyone left the auditorium with praise for the two artists who had entertained them so highly, and congratulations for the Chapter for having presented such a very fine program. We were represented at the 26th General Convention which was held at New Orleans from December 28 to 31, by Brother James F. Dunn who was then president-elect of Xi. At our last business meeting Brother Dunn gave his very splendid report. The report was so very well presented that all felt that Xi could not have been better represented at the Convention. It showed that he took a particular interest in the convention and that he represented us to the best of his ability. Some fifteen (15) applicants have been accepted for membership into the Sphinx Club under the University's new rule compelling Freshmen to refrain from pledging
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to any Greek Letter Organization until at least their second quarter on our campus. Xi Chapter entered a skit in the Annual Jabberwock which was held on the campus on April 8th by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Xi Chapter has been fortunate enough to win the first prize for three consecutive years. Whether or not she will continue this winning streak remains to be seen. The Sphinx Club's annual program was presented in Galloway Hall at 7:30 p. m. on April 12th. Xi has again been blessed in that one of our most outstanding brothers was chosen in Who's Who in American Colleges and Universities. He was also recently made a member of the Sword and Shield Honorary Fraternity on our campus. This brother, who is known for his oratorical ability, is none other than our own Brother Joseph Neal Moore, Jr. of McGhee, Ark. Brother Moore is a senior in the College of Liberal Arts and has a commendable scholastic record. He is also assistant to the Dean of Men. Xi Chapter has plans on foot to make its annual spring formal the affair of the year. Our prom is to be given on May 27th at Beacom Gymnasium. Plans are also on foot for our Educational Week which will be observed from May 2nd to May 8th. Fraternally yours, LLOYD A. PARKER, Associate Editor to Sphinx. o
ALPHA DELTA CHAPTER Los A n g e l e s ,
Calif.
Activities of Alpha Delta have become increasingly worthwhile and interesting since our new program has been initiated for the year. The Educational Committee presented the first of a series of speakers at the Second meeting in March. Dr. Frank Baxter of University of Southern California. Dr. Baxter gave a very interesting talk on "The Social and Economic Problems of the Nation for the last One Hundred Years." Dr. Baxter is the Professor of English of U. S. C. and Acting Dean of the department. He has also been selected to revise the curriculum of the University to meet with the ever changing needs of society. The number of delinquent brothers as well as those who attend regularly ran the total number of attendance up to approximately one half or over, of the entire number of Alpha men in Los Angeles. This is proof again! that Alpha men are seeking the higher and loftier ideals. Make the meetings interesting and you will be surprised with your results. And unless I miss my guess this arrangement, along with the social feature will undoubtedly stimulate increased interest and the trend will go toward a more consistent attendance. Alpha Delta is very proud of its basket ball team in view of the fact it is the first one for several yoars. The game Sunday, April 3rd, with the Kappas was the first of a three game series. Approximately one thousand persons were thrilled over the spirit and hard fought game, played by both teams. The final score ended 46-34 in favor of the Kappas. The Alpha squad is favored to win the next .two games, according to a few of our sport commentators. Namely Paul Rickman, and Melvin Nickerson. However the loss of the first game made the Alphas very "unhappy". Any way Bros. Jimmy Robinson, James Shifflett, Perry Parks, Feltonberg, and little pledge brother,
May, 1938
THE
Lacefield say "they can't do that to us". They are members of the team. Alpha Delta sends greetings to all the brothers and congratulations upon the fine "Convention Number" of the Sphinx. We are still striving to make Alpha Phi Alpha through Alpha Delta the example of everything worthwhile. E. C. STRONG, Associate Editor.
MU CHAPTER St. Paul-Minneapolis, Minnesota Greetings, Brothers: Since the last issue of the Sphinx went into mails, Mu Chapter has had the pleasure and good fortune of adding these former members of its Sphinx Club to its roster as regular members: Bio. Victor Calloway—'39. Bro. Louis Moore—'39. Bro. Walter Robinson—'39. Two of the above mentioned brothers, Calloway and Moore, are candidates for the Gopher track team. Not to mention that the reliable "place kicker," Horace Bell, is again to be seen in his regular guard position! on the widely feared Golden Gophers. Bro. Bell also annexed the University heavyweight scalp to his belt. Mu Chapter was well represented in basketball during the past season. Coach Bro. Norman Lyght's Phyllis Wheatley Olympian won the Minneapolis city junior championship by defeating the Columbia-Jensen's (a white team) to the tune of 32-26 in the final game of the season. On Thursday, April 28, 1938, Mu Chapter gave its Annual Spring Frolic in honor of the Alpha Wives and Sweethearts Club. Bro. Wm. Campfield, formerly of Mu Chapter, has been added to the faculty of Johnson C. Smith University, as secretary to the President. Bro. Campfield went to Johnson C. Smith from Tuskegee Institute, Alabama, where he had been employed as an instructor of accountancy for the past four years. Prior to that time he held a position with a large New York firm where he was an accountant. The Sphinx Club is very active, and before the end of the present school year, we hope to add the remaining pledges to Mu's roster. To all sister chapters, Mu sends greetings. Fraternally yours, ALFRED J. LEWIS. o
PSI CHAPTER Philadelphia, Penn. Our Educational Campaign— At press time we hadn't fully completed our prepara tion for the observance of "Annual Education Campaign Week." Yet it is practically impossible to think of anything worthwhile educationally without thinking of Alpha and Alpha Phi Alpha men. Brother Arthur Huff Fausett plays an important role in our educational life. He is principal of the Joseph Singerly School, national vice-president of the National Negro Congress, and the Pennsylvania State Director of Education for the I. B. P. O. E. of W. Working with Brother Fausett on the Elk's Educational
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Committee is Brother "Bill" Harris. There is a great field for educational campaigns; there is a great need for leadership. Brother Leonard Logan, too, has shown his leadership ability. At Temple University, he has organized the boys and girls for the purposes of good fellowship and cooperation. Brother "Oppy" Thomas, the only Negro enrolled in Temple's Medical School, Tom Hawkins, and "Big Bill" Harris are supporting Brother Logan's endeavors. "READY, WILLING, AND ABLE" "Peacock's Comeback."— Without great interest, the sports world watched Brother "Eulie" Peacock attempt again to scale the heights in track. He was ready, willing, but so far Eulie hasn't been able to come back. "HOMOGENIOUS GROUPING" Brother Ben Johnson placed third at the track meet at the Convention Hall. Following the meet, Brother Johnson and Brother Mel Walker, of Ohio State, attended a formal given by a local club. Among other brothers present were President Roger Gordon, "Oppy" Thomas, B. Bundy. Representatives of Omega, Kappa, Sigma, and Alpha Fraternities met to form an Interfraternal Athletic Council to promote basketball games. Details in connection with the Council are being worked out at the present time. The Council is composed of twelve members, four representatives from each of the Greek-Letter Societies. Brother M. Washington is the manager of our team. The next big event on Psi's calendar is its Annual Relay Prom. The Relays will bring many people to Philadelphia and, according to all advance reports, will be the beet Relays ever and a preponderance of Colored athletes will vie. Similarly the dance committee promises that this will be the best Relay Prom ever. May each Alpha year get better ever and Alpha and the Sphinx grow forever and ever. Fraternally, WILLIAM B. HARRIS. o
BETA ETA Southern Illinois Normal University Carbondale, 111. Extensive plans are taking shape for our spring semiformal prom which is to take place May 14 in the Little Theatre room in the Old Science building. This affair is being given with the assistance of the local chapter of the Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority. The regular Spring initiation is scheduled for May 18. Some eligible pledges have already voiced their desire to become Alphas. The newly initiated members are to be our guests of honor at the dance. Beta Eta intends to recognize the "Go to High School— Go to College Week" by rendering a program of that nature at Bethel A. M. E. Church May 15. We have received an invitation to compete in the annual fraternity and sorority sing on May 18 for the possession of a trophy, which, if won by the same organization for three consecutive years, becomes the property of that organization. This function is held out-of-doors on the steps of Shyrock Auditorium at twilight. Bro. Henry Ratcliffe is now teaching at Little Rock, Arkansas. He plans to resume his academic work during the Summer term.
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James Price and Samuel Roberts, members of the Sphinx Club, both placed second in the high jump and 880 respectively in the track meet with the Macomb Teachers April 8. From these Sphinxmen and from two or three additional ones we are anticipating some outstanding track work when the season is in full swing. The Dunbar Intramural Basketball team came out victorious, thereby winning the campus championship. We are indeed proud of Bro. Algee and the pledges that participated in this sport. Also the Attucks Bluebirds, coached by Bro. J. Q. Clark, won first place in their tournament. Fraternally yours, VINCENT FREEMAN, Associate Editor. o
BETA XI CHAPTER LeMoyne College Since our last writing, Beta Xi has finally recuperated from some of the cultural pleasures and is now busy making plans for a more dignified phase. In other words, intellectual pleasures. As I stated in my last script our observance of the "Go to High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Go to College Campaign" begins in a very few short weeks, and of course we are very busy in an effort to make this our greatest celebration. Through the efforts and services of Brothers Lewis, Roulhac and Bolton, we are visiting thirteen (13) schools as compared with twelve of last year. Along with the good brothers of Beta Xi on this tour will go that well known trio, the "Moonglow Girls," composed of Misses Annie Westbrook, Martha Home and Elise Doggett. To climax the campaign we will present our annual program before the students, faculty and friends in the college chapel. Several weeks ago the First Annual Play Festival of Southern Colleges which held sway at Wiley College in Marshall, Texas, found a few representatives from LeMoyne, who presented that well known composition by Ester Sagalyn, entitled "Only the Birds." We are very happy and proud to say that this play was produced and directed by our own chapter president and brother, Martin Bolton. Although no prizes were given, I was informed that the LeMoyne players received a wonderful ovation. Well, brothers of Alpha, I guess it's about all for this time. If I by chance think of something more, I'll send it by post script. So until next time, be good and I'll see you soon. Fraternally yours, HENRI TWIGG. P. S. Sorry, but I couldn't think of anything other than myself. o
ALPHA RHO CHAPTER Morehouse College Greetings, Brothers of Alphadom: After being unrepresented in the last few issues of the Sphinx, we return to the front with renewed forces and ambition. The last initiation (December) linked to our mighty chain "Neophytes" James Hubert, Gerone Taylor, David Griffin, George N. Taylor, Wiley W. Martin and James
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May, 1938
Jackson. Without a doubt these brothers, after having crossed the "burning sands," have strengthened our forces. We take pride in saying that again the good 'Ole Alpha spirit has recaptured the souls of thirty-two men. We are proud to say that we are treading the path together to higher aspirations. As a result of the last election, we are contemplating a greater future with the following officers: William Nix, president; Gabriel S. Alexander, vice president, and treasurer; James Hubert, recording secretary; Gerome Taylor, corresponding secretary, Charles Saxon, chaplain; George N. Taylor, sergeant-at-arms, and Wiley W. Martin, parliamentarian and editor to the Sphinx. We pause here to give mention of Bros. George Washington and Butler A. Jones who honorably represented Morehouse College in a debate with an English team a short while ago. We are proud to note that Alpha Rho is still holding its rank in scholarship. The past semester found nine brothers on the honor roll, viz: Bros. Gabriel Alexander (straight "A" average), Earl Pierro, William Bell, Joseph Sanson, Edward Maddox, J. Raymond Davis, Gerome Taylor, Edmund Allen, Lewis Watts. In a get-together meeting on March 10, sponsored by Eta Lambda Chapter, the Alpha spirit was super-saturated into the veins of Alpha men. Having as our guest speaker Brother Noble Sissle, we were royally feted. This meeting served in a great way to bring together the brothers of Eta Lambda, Alpha Phi and Alpha Rho. Since this is the first report we have had in quite some time, we should like to mention the fact that Bros. William Bell, II., and Edward Maddox were our representatives at the past convention in New Orleans and they brought back some valuable information. Bro. Bell is now the scoutmaster of the oldest Boy Scout troop in Georgia, namely Troop 90. Bro. J. Raymond Davis serves as assistant scoutmaster of the same troop. Much honor is due them as their troop recently won the Atlanta District loving cup. Bro. A. J. Lewis, Eta Lambda, is commissioner of the district. Bro. Wiley W. Martin is laboratory instructor of Invertebrate Zoology and Bro. Edmund Allen is laboratory instructor of physics. Bro. Allen is also preparing to defend his championship title in the on-coming Atlanta tennis tournament, while Bro. Gerone Taylor is anticipating capturing for the second time the table tennis championship of Morehouse College. Bros. Earl Pierro, clarinetist, and George N. Taylor, violinist, toured the Carolinas with the Morehouse orchestra a few weeks ago. Bro. Richard Bennett and Bro. George "Chess" Taylor are again in the fold after a period of absence (Bro. Taylor's absence was for several years). Bro. John Beamer having completed his studies here the first semester, has gone to Tennessee in the field of insurance. Bro. J. R. Davis has filled his (Beamer's) place in the Morehouse Quartet. Bro. Maddox is the first National vice president of the newly organized Delta Phi Delta Honorary Journalistic Fraternity. Bro. James Nix is president of the Atlanta University Players. Taking part in the last production were Bros. George Washington, Eugene Grigsby, Edmund Allen, James Nix and William Nix. The University Players are enjoying a highly successful season under the direction of Bro. John M. Ross. Until we appear again, Alpha Rho is striving to maintain the highest ideals of the fraternity. Fraternally yours, WILEY W. MARTIN,
May, 1938
THE S P H I N X
BETA SIGMA CHAPTER Southern University, Scoilandville, La. We of Beta Sigma Chapter are planning big things for our Spring program. In a few weeks we will begin our Annual "Go to High School, Go to College Week." We will be the proud hosts to Brother Rayford Logan. Our program is most complete and includes trips and programs to all the local high schools. We wish you bio hers could be here. Now that football season is over and so many of our local brothers are not making history on the gridiron one would possibly expect for us to let down a little in our leadership in campus affairs, but such is not the case. Bic hers James Marshall, Peters and David are still taking a leading part in the musical activities on the campus. Brothers George Armstrong and Archie Lang are taking an active part in the debating society. Brother Thompson is rlanning to go on a tour with one of the campus' dramatic endeavors in the near future. We are not altogether without our quota or sorrow, however. We are soon to lose Brothers Edgar Thornton, Othneil Thompson, George David and William Yates through graduation. They are planning to stay with us in everything except actual presence. Of course, we a2'e not neglecting the purely social side of our activities. Last month our Sphinx Club entertained the freshmen and new students at a swanky spread in the music studio. Everybody seemed to have enjoyed themselves immensely. Our dance will be in the near future and we are planning a "scrumptuous" affair. Wish you brothers were here. At present the president of the chapter is Brother William Yates instead of Brother J. D. Davis. Well, so long until next time. BROTHER ARCHIE LANG, Associate Editor of the Sphinx. o
GAMMA CHAPTER Virginia Union Greeting from Gamma: We here at Virginia Union University are looking back upon a very enjoyable winter of fraternal life. We hope that all brothers everywhere have enjoyed some measure of this same spirit which has been and still is so characteristic of Alpha Phi Alpha. We are proud to announce that with the publication of the Dean's List for the preceding semester, we found thereon the names of two of the brothers, France M. Brinkley and William C. Calloway. Brothers Booker and Edward McCreary represented Gamma on the Kappa Gamma Chi Debating and Literary Society's debating teams which it sent on Northern and Southern tours. They reported the warm hospitality extended them by the brothers of Nu, Beta, Beta Rho, Alpha Rho and Alpha Omicrcn Chapters. Brothers, Frederick C. Lewis, William' C. Calloway and Spingarn Brinkle are representing "Gamma" in the Public School System at Richmond, they are "Student Teachers" in the high School and are doing excellent work. Outstanding in Dramatics is Bro. DeClue Lankford who plays a very important part in the "tournament" play besides earring out his duties as President of the Dramatic Club. Bro. France Brinkley serves capably as assistant to Bro. Prof. John M. Moore.
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Chapter, Va. Union University
GAMMA CHAPTER, VA. UNION U.
Bro. Bye-Thamia Johnson Moore has scored a hit with the publication of his book "A Golah Boy in America." Bio. Moore is a native of Africa and an aspirant to the Medical profession. In his book he has given a short biography of himself and a very interesting survey of the customs and tradition of his tribe. Bro. Moore is certainly to be congratulated. On March 1, 1938, the brothers donned dresses and paint long enough to go down to the Annual Delta Jabberwock and carry off first prize. The house was brought down by their very ludicrous presentation of a "Follies" chorus. As the time of times in a pledgee's life draws near, we find several worthy aspirants who hope to attempt a crossing of the "burning sands." It shall be our duty to aid and assist them in any way possible and in so doing, we will ever keep in mind the advice given us by Jewel Bro. Tandy at the recsnt National Convention. At present we are planning for our annual dance which promises to be a gala affair. Well, it is time for me to sign off until next time. Fraternally yours, JAMES W. BOOKER. •
o
BETA ETA LAMBDA Oklahoma City, Oklahoma INFANT CHAPTER ENTHUSIASTIC With the rising of the curtain on a newly established chapter at Oklahoma City, Oklahoma — BETA ETA LAMBDA—sends sincerest greetings to all brothers in Alpha Phi Alpha. Beta Eta Lambda was established at Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, March 2, 1938 by Brother Tollie W. Harris, exregional director a.;d assisted by Brother Dr. F. Melvin Payne, Tulsa, Oklahoma, regional director of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. The following chapters of the state were represented: Alpha Tau Lambda, Tulsa, Brothers
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Dr. F. Melvin Payne, regional director, Tollie W. Harris, ex-regional director, A. L. Morgan, president of chapter, J. L. Greadington and E. W. Clark; from Beta Upsilon Lambda, Wewoka, Brothers Dr. D. A. French, president of chapter, W. A. Dobson and Manuel Buckner; Beta Kappa of Langston University was represented by Brothers Samuel Fuhr, president of chapter, William Hale, Virgil Chandler, Elmer Jackson, Francis and Hasko Ellis. The visiting brothers were welcomed by Brother Lucius L. McGee, ex-general president, after which each president responded. Each brother present will long rememeber the occasion of rich fraternal experience. Beta Eta Lambda is the result of much energy and labor on the part of its twenty-two charter members, who are anxious to further fraternalism in the Southwest. We are in a bit of glory, in that, this is the largest new chapter ever to be organized in Alpha Phi Alpha. The officers and members of Beta Eta Lambda consist of twenty-two of the leading men in Oklahoma City and Langston University, who are engaged in the medical, educational and business profession: Brothers Dr. Graveley E. Finley, president; Alexander Dumas, vice president; William Johnson, secretary; Armstead Pierro, assistant secretary; Eugene J. Brown, chaplain; Kenneth Lee Jones, associate editor Sphinx; Leroy W. Dues, sergeant-at-arms; Dr. J. Morton Littlepage, treasurer; Lee Edward Lewis, James L. Bruce, Sercy J. Bailey, Alonza B. William's, Harry M. Harbison, Stephen R. Parker, Henry T. S. Johnson II, Albert V. Alexander, Lucius L. McGee, exgeneral president, Bennie E. Taylor, Raleigh A. Wilson, Elbert Lee Tatum, James E. Taylor, Jr., and F. R. Tillman. Beta Eta Lambda in its youthful stage of existence is directing its energies toward a real constructive program. Plans are being formulated for the Citizenship program, which we plan to wage intensively in the Southwest. Other matters of local community interest are also claiming our attention. We pledge our loyalty to the general officers of Alpha Phi Alpha, we remain Fraternally yours, KENNETH LEE JONES Associate Editor Sphinx. o
NU CHAPTER Lincoln University, Pa. Greetings from the traditional "rolling hills" of Chester County Pennsylvania where old Nu Chapter holds sway. Well Spring is here and old Nu has cast aside its drab cloak of winter and is springing forth, as the spirit of nature, to new heights. Brothers Patrick, Randolph, Tracey, Davis, Briscoe, Bonner, Lanier, G. K. Robinson, Logan, L. W. Robinson, and Griggs have been structual supports upon which much of the success of the Lincoln University Dramatic Club has hinged. Brothers Patrick, Tracey, and Randolph were outstanding actors in a one act play, which took first place at this year's "Cultural Olympics" at the University of Pennsylvania. Nu has not neglected scholastic aspirations for our chapter's president, Brother Johnson, and Brother Bonner attained highest honors on last semester's honor roll, with a supporting cast of over one third of the chapter. The Debating Club has called forth the valuable services of Brothers Patrick, Lantier, and Tracey. Casting a casual glance upon the horizon of sports we find Brothers Taliaferro, Roark, and Griggs training hard for varsity track, while on the tennis courts, Brothers Johnson,
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May, 1938
Reed, and Bonner have promise to hold sway. Brother Turner is the coach of this year's track team. June will bring sorrow into the ranks of Nu when Brothers Davis, Jones, Smith, Malbon, and Henry cast aside their college associations at Lincoln. Perhaps there will be a few teal's shed as these valuable brothers depart, but as they go may we look forward to new blood for we have a very promising Sphinx Club of twenty-four men. Well I guess I could go on and on for ever but I judge it would be a bad policy in this current business recession to monopolize so in drawing to a close may I announce the fact that Nu's silver anniversary year will culminate with an extensive Educational Week Program, a gala social affair on Friday, May 13 th, and our annual Alpha Sunday program on May 15th, a t which time we shall present some noble sons of Alpha to our campus friends, graduate brothers, sweethearts, and parents. Fraternally yours, BROTHER WILLIAM E. GRIGGS, Associate Editor to the Sphinx. o
ALPHA OMICRON CHAPTER Johnson C. Smith University Greetings to Alpha Brothers: It has been quite some time since you have heard from Alpha Omicron. Although you haven't been hearing from us, we have been doing great things. Since you have last heard from us we have added nine brothers to the fold of Alpha Omicron. The following are the neophyte brothers who saw the light of Alphadom last November 24, 1937; Eugene Avery Adams, Jr., Columbus, S. C ; Harmon C. Goins Carthage, N. C ; W. Frank Hammond, Asheville, N. C ; William H. Jones, Brooklyn, N. Y.; Maryland D. Kemp, Macon, Ga.; Turner M. McCottry, Charleston, S. C ; Robert M. Massey, High Point, N. C ; Grantham Simpson, Greensboro, N. C ; and John Thomas Stocking, Jr., Daytona-Beach, Florida. Our chapter at present is composed of seventeen true Alpha Men. It is here that we wish to make a formal announcement of the officers for the year of 1938. For president— Ernest N. Mattison, '39; Vice-president, Franklin D. Woods '39; Secretary, and Editor to the Sphinx—Eugene Avery Adams, Jr. '40; Financial Secretary and Treasurer—James A. Bond, Jr. '38; Chaplain—Robert M. Massey '38 and Sergeant-at-arms—George W. Young '39. Recently the Sphinx club of the Alpha Omicron initiated into its group five men who have proved themselves to be worthy of belonging to that organization. They are: Richard B. Blue, Buffalo, N. Y., Willie Carson Parks, High Point, N. C ; Shelton H. Waters, Pittsburgh, Pa.; Jesse H. Primus, Daytona Beach, Fla.; and Water C. Daniel, Macon, Georgia. The present membership of the Sphinx club is nine stalwart pledges. Already they are outstanding as Sphinxmen. Blue is s prospective member of the tennis team for 1938; Sphinxmen Waters and Daniel are members of the Rho Omicron Sigma Debating Society. Sphinxmah Primus is prospective varsity tackle for the next season's football squad. As a feature of this article, I would like to give a general look into the activities of the Brothers of Alpha Omicron during the present school year. On the gridiron last fall we had Brother Wood as captain of the 1937 squad and also president of the varsity " S " Club, while Brothers Adams, Goins, Jones, Simpson, and Stocking lent their, support for the mainstay of the
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team. On the basketball court we saw Brother Boulware in action quite a, bit. On the tennis court Brother Stocking, varsity member, is holding his own. As presidents of various campus organizations, Alpha Omicron is outstanding. Brother Young is student manager of debate, vice president of the Pan-Hellenic council, and news editor to the campus publication. Brother Hammond is president of the Sociological Club and a competent man in all activities. Brother Bond is president of the Chemistry Club in the Science Department and Brother Kemp is an assistant chemistry instructor. Brother Adams is acting president of the Sophomore Class and is connected with other organizations on the campus. Brother Jones is the present associate editor to the campus publication and he is also a varsity debater. Brother Wood, too, is a varsity debater. Brother Wilson is a member of the University Quintet and also a member of the Carolinans," radio and concert artists who broadcast several times a week over a local station. Recently, Brother Jones, Woods, and Young on a debate trip visited Bluefield and West Virginia State Colleges, greeting the brothers of Beta Theta and Alpha Zeta respectfully. This school year brought one graduate brother and one undergraduate brother to the campus. The graduate brother is Brother William L. Campfield, the recently appointed secretary to the president. He is a graduate of the New York University and a brother from Mu Chapter at the University of Minnesota where he received his master's degree in business education. Brother Edward Murphy formerly of Beta Rho at Shaw University is the undergraduate brother. He is now an active member of Alpha Omicron. We are glad to have them both. There are five brothers of Alpha Omicron slated to graduate in June. They are Brothers Bond, Boulware, Hammond, Massey and Wilson. We feel proud that they are graduating and we trust they will keep up the good work of Alpha Phi Alpha. Recently Alpha Omicron had the honor and pleasure of playing host to Brother Noble Sissle. Brother Sissle, while filling an engagement at a local hotel, found time to drop in on us for a short while, He gave the chapter quite a few inspiring and interesting remarks. Just now everyone is working for the success of our Education for citizenship program. Brother George Young, who is chairman of the program committee, has made some very good plans for the week of May 2-8, 1938. We are striving to make it an enviable success. There are several other committees functioning within the chapter but their activities will be given a t a later date. Since the voice of Alpha Omicron has not been heard for some time, I have tried to give you a general resume of our activities for the present school year. We wish each Brother much success through the summer months and may they hold ever aloft the noble ideals and aims of Alpha Phi Alpha. Visit us when possible. There will be more later. Fraternally yours, EUGENE AVERY ADAMS, JR., Editor to the Sphinx. o
ALPHA CHI LAMBDA Augusta, Ga. Alpha Chi Lambda again has the pleasure to send greetings to the brothers throughout the land.
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We are planning to observe the National "Education for Citizenship" week. The Educational Committee this year is under the capable direction of Dr. L. W. Jonefe who with his co-workers have planned to make this year's activities more impressive than all other observances. As a special feature, an oratorical contest among the high schools of Augusta and the Augusta Area will be staged at the Tabernacle Baptist Church. Climaxing the week a radio broadcast over the local radio station WRDW will be another special feature. Details as to the results of this contest and the information concerning other activities of the week will be forthcoming in a later issue. With a great deal of pride do we note the special activities of individual brothers recently: Brother A. Murray Carter, comptroller of the Pilgrim Health and Life Insurance Company, was listed among those representing the business life of Georgia at a special committee meeting during the sessions of the Georgia State Teacher's and Educational Association which met in Columbus Georgia in April. Brothers Leverte W. Jones and R. L. Loekett, and R. W. White were among the members of the Stoney Medical Society who visited the schools of this city as speakers during the celebration of National Negro Health week. Brother Joel W. Wallace was the very pleasing radio speaker during the celebration of the anniversary of the Bethlehem Community Center of this city. Brothers John M. Tutt and Clairmont A. Williams engineered a very successful field meet on the Haines Institute campus on April 13th. Brother S. Marcus Jenkins, manager of the Augusta District of Pilgrim Health and Life Insurance Company according to a release from the Pilgrim Journal has put over an overwhelming program in the production of new business. Yours truly was one of the speakers on the program of the State Teacher's and Educational Association at Columbus, Georgia. While there is plenty of interesting news among the brothers, we must bend our every effort now toward the success of our educational program and with best wishes to all chapters in their "Educational Week", we are, Fraternally yours, AUGUSTUS C. GRIGGS, Associate Editor to the Sphinx. o
BETA PI CHAPTER Lane College Having started the new year off right, Beta Pi Chapter under the administration of its new officials, is making splendid progress. The four brothers who entered Alphadom during the past initiation are proving to be assets to the Chapter. The Annual Winter Entertainment was enjoyed by the brothers and at its culmination, plans for the "Founders' Day Celebration" were formulated, which in turn resulted in an an enjoyable occasion. My! the little brothers â&#x20AC;&#x201D; M. Beasley and W. Beasley, respectively, who enjoyed the honor of serving at the affair, did a splendid job of it. The celebration brought new inspiration to the Chapter, and the affair closedâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;leaving a bit of happiness within the hearts of the brothers who went away saying "we are glad to be affiliated with such a renown organization." Drunk with the wine of nature as we traveled through the hills, plains, and valleys of Tennessee, we were in-
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fatuated with the fragrance of the flowers, and by the attractive sceneries as we journeyed from town to town, sponsoring our national Go-to-High-School, Go-to-College Campaign. There were two groups of the brothers who made the tour, to the Grammar and High Schools at the following towns: Milan, Humboldt, Alamo, Sommerville, Trenton, Boliver, McKenzie, and Paris. Beta Pi maintains the lead in members on the honor roll for Greek-Letter organizations on the Campus. Beta Pi emphasizes scholarship and manly deeds, and the Chapter is content to know that the Little Brothers are complying with the ideals set before them, by becoming honor students. At the time of th's writing, Beta Pi is preparing for the Spring Initiation, which will be held about the last of April; after which, plans for our annual banquet will be completed. Although our president, Brother W. H. Anderson withdrew from the college, the Chapter, under the leadership of the Vice President, J. D. Abram, continues its work. At the end of this term, Beta Pi will lose some if its most outstanding members who are as follows: Brothers Captain Warford, C. Crooms, C. Bonds, B. Jackson, A. Burrows, the past president, and Brother C. Kirkendoll. Brothers, Beta Pi pauses in profound admiration towards you for your accomplishments thus far. "You have fought a good fight; you have kept the faith; you have almost finished your coursesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Go out into the world, work hard and make good! Hold high the ideals of Alpha Phi Alpha and make the world a better place in which to live; and may success and happiness be yours where ever you go. Fraternally yours, JACOB COBA OGLESBY. Associate Editor, Beta Pi Chapter, o
BETA NU CHAPTER Florida A. & M.
Beta Nu extends greetings to its brothers throughout Alphadom. This chapter has known the fertile growth common to all things in this land of trailers and training camps, and recently consolidated its gains by inducing into the fold four neophyte brother's: Monroe Spencer, Joseph Patterson, Reginald Hughes and Waldense Nixon. The gala celebration of their crossing of the sands climaxed a season of social activity unrivaled in local fraternal circles. In addition to the higher side, Beta Nu has been fortunate in enjoying the guidance of many local graduate brothers who have directed its energies toward social and educational ends as well. We may point with pardonable pride to all-American Brother McMeekins who has capped his athletic achievements by leading the chapter scholastically. Graduate Brother Bell, one of the chapter's most valued advisers has joined his protege McMeekins among fortunes fairhaired boys on learning that his Masters thesis at Ohio State has been selected by them as the one most deserving to be published among those written last year. Plans thus far formulated for National Education Week promise to cap the year's efforts with a most constructive campaign in the name of Progress.
May, 1939 ALPHA TAU CHAPTER Akron, Ohio
Greetings, Dear Brothers: With the appearance of Robin red breast and his cheerful little family here again after a long absence throughout those blustery winter months, Alpha Tau Chapter is busy again setting forth all efforts to enliven the spirit of each brother. The entertainment committee of which brother Charles Nunn is chairman and working tirelessly with him are Bros. Atty. Artee Fleming, Rufus Thompson in a effort to put over another one of the social events of the spring â&#x20AC;&#x201D;that grand formal. Also a point has been scored by our good brother, Dan. iel "Rev" Thomas, who with the aid of "Danny Cupid", so impressed the charming Miss Mayme Clark of Springfield, Ohio that it was far more economical and pleasant for them to take residence in Akron as a partnership for life rather than continue burning up the road every weekend and adding to the already vast total of wealth, of which the Rockefellers control. At last the announcement came that they were united in matrimony and are happily settled down at the home of our chapter President, Bro. Norman Chestnut, who incidentally is a cousin of the bride. Alpha is happy to see you join hands. Dan, "ole boy," "Good luck." Bro. Secretary Rufus Thompson received appointment to the administrative staff -of the Ohio State Employment Service. He left for Columbus, Ohio immediately after the frat meeting. Bro. John Sneed was elected to replace Bro. Thompson as Secretary and incidentally let me remind you that brother John Sneed, former Medical Student at Marquette University, received appointment to the W. P. A. Educational Staff here. Bros. Rev. G. G. Morgan, Pastor of the Centenary M. E. Church will close his year with the Easter services and will trek to Cleveland to the Convention of M. E. Churches, may be to return and may be not. Let us hope he returns to us. He's a real brother and has the spirit. Bro. Charles Nunn is anticipating receiving his Masters Degree a t Akron University this June. Bro. Nunn, a graduate of Ohio State University, is contemplating teaching. At present he is engaged in social work. Brother President Norman Chestnut has issued a supreme challenge to each brother to pay up and prepare to be ready for the next general Convention. We've missed our good brothers from Canton, Ohio, Dr. John Walker and Dr. Joseph Brewer, however they have informed us that business has kept them tied up but in the future they'll be on hand. Bro. Amos Stiggers still continues to "knock out" those excellent grades up at the "U". Keep up the good work. Our Spring initiation is about to "bob up" and two likely candidates are being groomed. Our next issue will perhaps find the confirmed names mentioned. Little Brother Collie McCoombs looms well to be the outstanding choice for a position on the Varsity line at Akron " U " next fall and we're pulling for him in a big way. "Collie" formerly starred for tHitl brilliant all American tackle, Coach Brother Bill Bell down at Claflin College before Bell moved over to Florida A. and M. A recent letter, to our pleasant surprise, finds our most worthy Bro. Robert E. Black who by the way is excellent Secretary of the Urban League out at Little Rock, Ark. making a successful "go of things." His mothsr was a very happy woman when she learned of his radio broadcasts and various speeches blazing his name into
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prominence. He's got what it takes and we expect big things of him. Brothers I must concludes my mission. In the rear of my home some, fifty yards away, the thud of tennis racquets and voices of hilarious young folk have taken my thoughts completely and to the outdoors I must go to join them, "Spring is in the air good brethren." Fraternally, H. C. SPARKS, Assoc. Editor to the Sphinx.
ALPHA ZETA LAMBDA Bluefield, West Virginia Greetings: Alpha Zeta Lambda had its second meeting of the year at the Memorial Building in Kimball, West Virginia, March 22, 1938. The president, Bro. John H. Franklin presided over the meeting. Brother Dr. Martin made a very detailed report on the Chapter H-use investigation. He urged the chapter to act at once, but owing to the financial status of the chapter at the present time actual purchasing of the house was postponed. This in no way means that a chapter house will not be bought. The committee that was appointed to meet with the local undergraduate chapter made a very lengthy and detailed report. This committee was composed of brothers Browne, Franklin, and Higginbotham. The report was appreciated to the highest and the chapter deemed it wise to put forth every effort to better the condition of the undergraduate chapter. The chapter decided in favor of giving its annual Prom in the fall rather than the spring of the year. This idea was advanced by Bro. Martin who gave as his reason the fact that good bands wouldn't be through this section at the time and the committee would like to have more time in order to give a true Alpha Prom. He furtheir stated that other organizations had probably decided on dates to give their proms and the season would, without a doubt, be crowded. This year the yearly campaign will be sponsored jointly with the local undergraduate chapter in this section. It seems as if the true Alpha spirit prevailed during the entire spirited rr.-eeting and at the end of such a very tasty menu, prepared by Bro. Brown was enjoyed. Those taking full part in this were Bro. Lurrie V. Taylor, Thomas E. Branch, Dr. D. T. Murray, Pres. Henry L. Dickason, R. R. Carroll, Dr. J. E. Martin, Dr. R. P. Higginbotham, Leonard H. McClanaham, E. W. Browne, John H. Franklin, Sherman S. Collins, Attorney Stewart A. Calhoun, W. C. Spencer, Dr. P. G. Howard, J. H. Byers, Harold P. Cooper, and Early T. McGhee. Each brother is doing his best in reclaiming old brothers. Fraternally, SHERMAN S. COLLINS.
ALPHA ALPHA LAMBDA CHAPTER Newark, N. J. On March 9th the regular meeting of Alpha Alpha Lambda Chapter was held at the residence of Brother Charles Francis where the Alpha spirit reigned supreme for the evening. The greater portion of the meeting was devoted to discussions and final preparation of our program which we
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hope will surpass anything that we have ever attempted. On May 20th, a socially lethargic chapter will hold its annual Spring Prom a t the beautiful Shady Rest Country Club where the brothers will entertain their many friends beneath soft lights and waving palms. On May 22nd, the Honorable Judge James Watson of New York City will be the guest speaker at our Educational program. Brothers Daniel Wenge and Charles Francis, our great hosts, served a delightful repast to those assembled who were very reluctant to leave at the appointed time. OLLIE T. DALLY. o
TAU LAMBDA CHAPTER Nashville, Tennessee Greetings to all brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha: On April 1st, brothers of Tau Lambda, together with those of the other three chapters in Nashville, entertained in a distinctive and attractively set banquet in the Tennessee State College cafeteria, feting their wives, sweethearts, and guests with hospitality and fraternal spirit consonant with the occasion. Brother G. Norman Adamson was toastmaster and deported himself in a manner creditable to the chapter and to all Alphas. The principal speech was delivered by Brother St. Elmo Brady, whose penetrating analysis of present-day college life will long be remembered. After the banquet, there was a gay tripping of the light (and heavy) fantastic in the beautifully decorated Crystal Ballroom of the college. It was April Fool's day only for the brothers who could not attend. At the regular meeting of Tau Lambda on April 12th, the brothers were treated by Brother Charles S. Johnson to a review of his book, THE NEGRO COLLEGE GRADUATE, just released. This is a very excellent and complete study of all the important phases of the life of this group of American citizens, since the first such graduate in 1826. No college man or educator can afford not to read it. Brother Johnson is distinguished, not only as the leading Negro sociologist, but as one of the best in the field. He will deliver the convocation address at Meharry Medical College at the graduating exercises next month. Tau Lambda is highly pleased to count him among its membership. The chapters in Nashville know how to carry out cooperative enterprises and are planning such a program for the coming ANNUAL EDUCATION CAMPAIGN WEEK. The emphasis will be on better citizenship. Fraternally yours, MARK HANNA WATKINS, Associate Editor.
ALPHA BETA CHAPTER Talladega College Greetings, Brothers: Our annual Educational Campaign for Citizenship is now under way. As a preliminary measure to the national campaign Alpha Beta began April 14. The preliminary measures culminated Sunday, April 17 when Brother Rayford W. Logan of Atlanta University spoke to the college family on "Democracy at the Crossroads." The town folk (both white and colored) turned out in representative numbers to hear Brother Logan. Hits subject was very timely and had its effect on his audience, and gave the people a picture of the actual conditions which a democratic people are facing in a world of turmoil and chang-
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ing political philosophies. Following the lecture the brothers enjoyed an afternoon tea with Brother and Mrs. Rayford W. Logan as guests, at the home of Brother Joseph Fletcher. Other notables were present at the affair. All present had a good time. The Sphinx Club to Alpha Beta gave the brothers a lovely social and dance in honor of the fraternity's 31st anniversary. Everyone was well pleased. Brothers, take it from us, we really are proud of our Sphinxmen. Their spirit and love for Alpha Phi Alpha make potential Alpha men. On April 16 we enjoyed our annual spring dance. The dance was formal, and the music was by "Fess" Whatley's saxo-society orchestra. It was an Alpha affair, brothers. Alpha Beta again announces to all Greekdom three neophyte brothers: Emmett Harrison, Joseph Singleton, Cyril Crocker. Fraternally yours, HERBERT PEGUES, Corresponding Secretary.
ALPHA LAMBDA CHAPTER Louisville. Ky. Alpha Lambda Chapter of Louisville, Kentucky, the first graduate chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, observed its 27th anniversary with a banquet April 8. Bro. M. G. Ferguson, regional director, of Nashville, Tennessee, was the guest speaker. He was accompanied to Louisville by Brother I. T. Creswell, treasurer of Fisk University. President R. B. Atwood, of Kentucky State College, accompanied by Mrs. Atwood, were also present. Brother Atwood delivered a brief address. Brother H. A. Kean, accompanied by Mrs. Kean, was present. Coach Kean, great athletic director at Kentucky State, was introduced by Brother Frank L. Stanley. Other speakers were Brothers W. H. Walker, Lyman Johnson, president of the local chapter. The roll call of charter members, a significant moment at the reception, was made. Brother J. 0. Blanton, charter member, served as master of ceremonies. He was assisted by Brother Lee L. Brown, secretary of the local chapter. Letters and telegrams from General Officers, and former members and charter members were read. Among the messages read two came from the Bethume-Cookman College, Daytona Beach, Florida, where Brother Abraham Simpson, former member of this chapter, is serving as acting president. Listed among the charter members, the names of Bros. J. H. Hubert, New York Urban League; W. P. Welch, Wilberforce University; John T. Clark, secretary of the St. Louis Urban League; Fenton Johnson, Chicago, 111., and Eugene Kinckle Jones, who assisted in the organization of Alpha Lambda Chapter. The widow and sons of a deceased charter member, Brother D. L. Lawson, sent flowers in memory of his name. During all of these years, Alpha Lambda has always been active.
ALPHA ZETA CHAPTER West Virginia State College Greetings, Brothers: With the recent addition of ten young men to our chapter roster, Alpha Zeta grows better and stronger. The
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new brothers are: Henry Brown, Robert Craig, Virgil Davis, Jerome Edwards, Charles Minor, James Preston, William R. Reed, Ladd Sawyer, Bennie Taylor and Philip Waring. We now have a membership of thirty-four active Alpha men. Alpha Zeta was honored April 13-14-15 by the presence of Brother Joseph H. B. Evans who wfas on the campus in connection with Garden Week of the Agricultural Department. Brother A. W. Curtis, director of agriculture a t the college, and Brother Lester Baker, president of the Morrill Agricultural Club, sponsored Brother Evans' appearance here. Brother Evans was entertained with a gala buffet luncheon on the 13th at the home of Bro. Eddie James, attended by some sixty Alphas connected with Alpha Zeta and Alpha Iota Lambda Chapters. An enjoyable and inspirational evening was spent by all brothers present. Bro. Eugene Sills recently returned from Howard and Virginia Union where he debated with the college debating society. Bro. Philip Waring was also in Washington the past week as a representative of the school at the National Youth Council. Athletically, the frat basketball team is preparing to battle Omega in Charleston Easter Monday. Bro. Bennie Taylor, incidentally, was chosen all Mid-Western guard this year. Brothers McCarthy, Minor, and Murray were tapped for membership in Alpha Delta Sigma Honorary Scholastic Society. A new arrival to the campus is Brother Torris Toney from Beta Xi who is helping with our work here. Plans are now going forward for the chapter's annual Mother's Day program and prom. Careful preparations are being made to insure the success of both of these affairs. More about them later. Fraternally, W. T. ALEXANDER. o
ETA LAMBDA CHAPTER Atlanta, Georgia Greetings, Fraters: Greatest Meeting of the Decade . . . They're still talking- about the inter-chapter meeting of Atlanta Alphas March 10, when Eta Lambda entertained those who had crossed the burning sands and were residing in the Gate City . . . The Nursery Rooms of the University Homes housing project were thronged with Apes of the host chapter, Alpha Rho and Alpha Phi and brothers not connected at present. BROTHER NOBLE SISSLE PRESENTâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;The spirited and enjoyable meeting got off to a great start under the influence of Ork Leader Frater Noble Sissle presentation and serious talk on the times. Said Brother Sissle among other things: "Become more race and success conscious in whatever field of endeavor you find yourself . . . The crisis of our times is grave; the group must take advantage of every opportunity to go forward to security." Nobly responded to by Frater J. 0. Slade, the "ork" leader rushed to Sunset Casino, Atlanta's West Side pavillion, and filled a successful engagement. The inspirational program was interspersed with piano music, speeches, eats and all the rest that flavors a good old Alpha meet. Among others appearing on the program were: Prof. B. T. Harvey, veteran retired football coach and Congressional committee testifier, Eta Lambda Vice Prexy; Dr. Rayford W. Logan, director of education campaign; Charles W. Greene, first vice president; William Fowlkes,
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Walter Smith, the presidents of undergraduate chapters, and others . . . THE NATION FETED HIM—Frater William E. B. DuBois was the object of national fete on Atlanta University campus the occasion of his birthday, February 23. The battle-scarred sociology professor appeared jubilant and expressed happiness over the accomplishments of his lifetime. His deliverance, "A Pageant in Seven Decades— 1868-1938," was a masterpiece, as has been DuBois' life and work. In presenting to Atlanta University the portrait bust of Dr. DuBois by the noted sculptor, Alexander Portnoff, Dr. Logan eloquently said: "At seventy, Dr. DuBois can behold one dark nation, whose modern existence began in the very year when he was born, forcing the masters of the universe to recognize its equality. May another seventy years bring the independence of the four million brown men of India, and still another three score and ten see the complete liberation of two hundred million black men in Africa, the West Indies, South, Central and North America. When that day shall come, dark men from all over the world will make a pilgrimage to Atlanta University to render homage to the man who helped to convince them, almost against their will, that God did not ordain them to be hewers of wood and drawers of water." FRATER N. B. HERNDON ENTERTAINS—The April meeting of the chapter proved a headliner at the home of Atlanta Life president, Brother Norris Herndon. Important in every respect, the sitting was equally enjoyable. The education campaign looms outstanding in the local realm. WM. FOWLKES, Jr. Editor to the Sphinx. o
ALPHA XI LAMBDA CHAPTER Toledo,
Ohio
On February 17 the Alpha Xi Lambda Chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity held a dinner for the benefit of the pledges in the Student Union Building on the campus of the University of Toledo. The affair was of such success that the chapter has decided to make this a monthly affair. At the meeting of the 17th, Dr. J. Nathan Becker, professor of economics, was the guest of honor. At the March dinner meeting held on the 29th, Professor Burtch, assistant professor of sociology, was the guest of honor. The purpose of these meetings has been to afford a means of fraternalization between graduate brothers, and undergraduate brothers and pledges, and further to serve as a means of inspiration of those who have yet "to encounter the struggles of living." Four stalwart neophytes saw the "light" at an initiation held March 5. They were: Brothers Victor English, Jr., William Jones, Harold Strickland and Charles Doneghy. These four brothers are undergraduate students at the University of Toledo. Brother Jones is a junior in the College of Education. He is a star member of the varsity basketball and baseball teams. Last semester Brother Jones was the top-ranking athlete scholastically. Brother Strickland is a junior in the College of Arts and Sciences, He is president of the Youth Council of the N. A. A. C. P., and the Inter-denominational Youth Conference of 1938. Brother English is a sophomore in the Pre-med School. Brother English is a member of the University track team. Brother Doneghy is a sophomore in the School of Arts and Sciences. Brother Dr. Alfred D. Blanhet recently transferred to this chapter. He has dental offices both in Monroe and
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Detroit,. Michigan. Brother William T. McKnight, president of the local chapter, has been kept busy traveling over the state as president of the State N. A. A. C. P. looking out for their interest. Brother William Thomas, member of Kappa Chapter, who recently received his masters degree in Social Service Administration from Ohio State, is working on his Ph. D., has returned home and was a recent visitor to one of the chapter's meetings. Brother Roy Shelton, secretary of the chapter, is the proud father of a daughter, Barbara Louis Shelton. Brother Joseph Doneghy was recently elected to the Board of Management of the Indiana Avenue Branch of the Y. M. C. A. Franklin McWilliams, a pledge from Tennessee State, has recently returned home.
OMICRON CHAPTER Pittsburgh, Pa. Greetings to All Brothers: Brother Donald Dammon debated before the Student F'aculty Association. He is also a very outstanding student at the University of Pittsburgh and other activities. Bro. Howard Bolden is the highest ranking Negro student at Duquesne University. He made the highest grade in the Music School of all the ones—White and Colored—enrolled in the school. Bolden is also one of the assistant directors of the Duquesne Band. Brother Frank Bolden, was elected to the National Honorary Fraternity of Phi Sigma. Bolden is graduate assistant of biology a t the University of Pittsburgh. At the present time he is working on his Ph. D. in Biology. He also spoke at various universities, including Duquesne, Carnegie Tech, and Pennsylvania College for Women on Interracial Problems. If intelligence was the criterion of merits, these two brothers by blood as well as by bond, would be the criterion of merits. Brother Melvin Goode has been appointed New Boys' Work secretary at the Center Avenue Y. M. C. A. Already, since he has been on the job great wonders have been performed at the "Y" in the Boys' Department. Many brothers in the fold will always remember Bro. Goode for his fine oratorical ability. In my last news to the "Sphinx" I related that Bro. Goode was the proud father of a baby girl, but I am also happier at this time to admit my mistake by saying it is a fine baby boy. "Mel" said the fraternity will be perpetuated through his son. The vacancy that was left by Mr. Goode leaving the Juvenile Court has been filled by Bro. James Albritton. "Jimmy" has had much experience in this type of work and is doing a creditable piece of work in dealing with delinquent boys. Brother Orville Fleming is spending the Easter vacation back home in Rankin and in Pittsburgh. He is attending the Medical School at Howard University. His scholastic attainment has been so high that he ranks in the upper fifth of the Sophomore class. Brother Walls, also of Rankin, is graduate-assistant in Chemistry at Howard University, while he is doing his graduate work. The following brothers will have completed their college training this coming June: Bros. Howard Jordan, president of the chapter; Donald Dammon, George Poe, these from University of Pittsburgh. Bros. George Mason and Howard Dammon will be graduated from Duquesne University.
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Your humble servant and writer of the "Sphinx," Bud Leftridge, is still trying to solve the problems of the recreation set-up by establishing centers throughout the City of Pittsburgh through the WPA Education and Recreation Project. Your humble servant at present is director of Negro activities for the WPA Education and Recreation program in the city. What I hear around the townâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;That 1. Brother Henry McCullough is shopping in all the large stores for furniture and household articles. A little bird told me that Miss Gladys Guster is "Pro's" reason for such ambition. 2. Brother Jordan's interest is still centered at West Virginia State College. Jordan has it "real bad," and has been persuading the boys with automobiles to make the long trek to W. Va. 3. Brother Bryan Fenderson stages that the best tires in the country can be found on the back wheels of his Packard, yet and still Bryan and the boys always find them flat when they get ready to go anywhere. Helen Phillips is still the love interest of the smooth dashing debonnaire Fenderson. 4. Brother George Mason is around town singing that he is a "Vagabond Lover." The brothers believe that Brother Mason is in dead earnest making those long trips to Sewickley. George says that everything is "SOLID." 5. Brother George Poe is nonchalantly strolling about town not admitting anything but Spring is giving away the young man's fancy. 6. Brother Max Thompson is still the head man at the Unemployment Compensation Bureau. We wonder when Max is going to New York again to see his "flame?" Thompson, with his Society Brand and Hickey Freeman suits, is rivaling Adolph Menjou for being well groomed. 7. The Pledge Club is doing a nice piece of work, and is comprised of men with fine talent. Sphinxman Johnny Woodruff, the National and Olympic champion of the 880-yard dash, is, we consider, the fastest human being, not only in his track ability, but in his social attributions as well. Johnny ran at Notre Dame Saturday, not so long ago, at South Bend, and was back in Pittsburgh at 5:00 P. M., Sunday to keep his appointment. A distance of over 400 miles covered in such a short space of time is some running to the writer's mind. 8. Pledge Brother Mellon occupies the first chair in the newly-organized Y. M. C. A. Conceit Orchestra. Omicron Chapter ranked second at the University of Pittsburgh in scholastic attainment. Congratulations are in order to the boys for making such goods marks and keeping Alpha in front. With best wishes to all the brothers in the fold, I remain, Fraternally yours, WILLIAM "BUD" LEFTRIDGE. o
ALPHA SIGMA CHAPTER Wiley College Marshall, Texas Greetings, Brothers: So far in these random notes about the working of Alpha Sigma, we've been telling about what goes on behind the scenes, what makes the chapter tick, and how we are striving to help our race as well as the world in which we live. To date, though, we haven't mentioned the trouble we occasionally have. Writing, after all, is just
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about as precautious as engineering or bridge construction and at times a bit more exciting. Fraters Newell Robinson and Leonard McClain, who crossed the burning sands last quarter, are splendidly carrying the colors of A. Phi A. in campus activities and are having their troubles too. Both being handicapped by illness in the early part cf the track season, are now rounding into shape and out to repeat their success of last year in the coming track meets. Brother Robinson is a three-let'er man and is qualified to represent us in the field of athletics. Brother McClain is a two-letter man, starring in basketball and track. It was our pleasure to have enjoyed the company and acting of a number of brothers from LeMoyne, Dillard and various cities in the Southwest, who represented their schools during the meeting of the Southern Dramatic Association, which convened on our campus. Many commendable remarks were made of their acting by the critics. Here's hoping our Education for Citizenship Week will reach more Negroes, and the programs to be presented will better the nation. Fraternally yours, CURTISS SPROTT. o
BETA RHO CHAPTER Shaw University Greetings, Brothers: Again Beta Rho greets you with the true Alpha spirit. Since our last publication of the Sphinx we have been able to complete the repairing and furnishing of our fraternity room. This month has been a very busy one for B?ta Rho. We entertained the members of the Beta Rho Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha on April 2, at the Arcade Hotel. A very pleasant evening was enjoyed by all who were present. Our program of "Education for Citizenship" was a great success. Some of the main features of the program were: A radio address over station WPTF, by Brother Dr. Robert P. Daniel, president of Shaw University, Tuesday, April 5th, at 7:15 P. M.; an address by Brother Claude R. Trotter, president of Beta Rho Chapter, Wednesday, April 6th, at 12:00 noon, in the University Chapel; a sketch "Showing How Negroes Are Systematically Disfranchised" in the University Chapel Friday, April 8th, at 12:00 o'clock noon; an address by Brother Harold L. Trigg, inspector of Negro High Schools in North Carolina, Sunday, April 10th, at 4:30 o'clock in the University Chapel. We have further plans for the rest of this month and the month of May. One of our outstanding plans is the annual Spring dance. Our Spring invitation will be April the 30th, at which time Sphinxmen Lewis VanDoran Graves will be initiated into Alpha Phi Alpha. Our chapter this year will lose three b r o h e r s by graduation: namely, Brother Benjamin A. Collier, winner of the Alpha Phi Alpha scholarship for last year, Harvey O. Freeman and Moses Newscme. Fraternally yours, MOSES NEWSOME, Editor to the Sphinx.
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TAU CHAPTER University of Illinois Tau Chapter heartily felicitates Sphinxmen Hayes, Martin, Taylor, Seaberry and Williams, whom we hope, by the time of this publication, will have "crctesed the burning sands," and entered into the Kingdom of Alphadom. These men have valiantly come up to the mark, and because of their persistent zeal our predictions of them in this new realm are inestimable. When we think of the typical "sharp stud," we know it is personified in Bill Martin; when it's athletics, it is exemplified in Coach "Potts" Hayes; speaking of scholarship, can we forget Seaberry and Clarence Taylor? And Fred Williams— what a man for perseverance! My! My! My! These new hopefuls join the brothers of Illinois Tau in greeting all brothers and friends of Alpha Phi Alpha. At this time Tau is privileged to honor its worthy member, Brother David H. Blackwell, who has just acquired the highest honor society on the campus—Phi Beta Kappa. And being true to his colors (sometime ago he made the Math honorary group) he graduates in June— three years, mind you. Dave's only nineteen, and will begin work on his masters next year. .His only problem is trying to "fall in luv," and judging from what we hear about Danville, it won't be long. Here's more power to you, Dave, the best is yet to come. And what about our "firebrand," Otho M. Robinson? He is a go-getter if ever! He's doing a great work and can't come down. Not Othie! He has sworn himself to the Negro's cause, and the problem has become a disease to him. Robinson has addressed practically every organization on the campus concerning discrimination in this proximity. The Daily Illini has graciously cooperated by publicizing all his noble actions in this connection. (Let us hope that it only learns of his "noble actions"). And Robinson's talks have not only amounted to theory, for many of the eating houses have opened their doors to the Negro student. Alpha is glad to push every forward step of one who has manifested such courageous devotion to the cause of his people. Several brothers' names are on the tentative list of candidates for the masters degree. These are Brothers Clark, Garret, Robinson and Dumas. However, be not alarmed, the emphasis is on the "tentative"—their fingers are still crossed. Our good Brothers Campbell and Pelkey are holding 'em down in the Law School. Let's hope that this statement isn't reversed in June. You'd better slow down, Brother Campbell, and let Fisk stay in Nashville and keep Illinois in Champaign. This year promises to be a very progressive one for Tau. We are putting all forces together in order to procure a new forte next year. We are negotiating for a new chapter house and are watching every penny in order to push the project along. It is imperative that we get new quarters for the coming semester. We appeal to Alpha Phi Alpha in this worthy endeavor. We are indeed grateful to those brothers who supported this matter at the National Convention. It is gratifying to know that our stalwart brother and president, Bill Haskins, will be here next year to carry on his grand leadership for the chapter. His doctor's thesis will hold him in Champaign another year. Thank God for the doctorate! Therefore, all brothers who are graduating, or returning from leave of absence (Brother
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James Henry, Wilberforce) can seek their respective positions with confidence—knowing that Brother Haskins will lead Tau in true Alpha spirit to the fulfillment of its highest aspirations. Fraternally submitted, MORRISON A. DUMAS, Editor to the Sphinx.
ALPHA UPSILON LAMBDA CHAPTER Montgomery, Alabama Brothers in Alpha Phi Alpha, Greetings: Alpha Upsilon Lambda has been on the up-grade ever since she received such glowing reports from the convention which the chapter attended en masse with the exception of Brothers Simms and Fevvs. Brother Simms is pining so over the fact that he passed up a topnotch attraction that he asked 'Bama State's ace news commentator, J. M. Reynolds to pinch hit for him in this letter to the Sphinx. So, brothers, here goes: The thing which is uppermost in the minds of the brethren here is the coming Education for Citizenship Campaign. A mass meeting with a capable orator is planned for Sunday, May 8, with a capable out-of-town brother in the speaking role. Heard on this same progiam will be the prize winning essay on citizenship to be written by members of the College Department of 'Bama State in the annual essay writing contest. A novelty attraction of the same week will be a quiz on everyday problems of citizenship to be conducted during one of the devotional periods of the high school of 'Bama State. A prize will be awarded the one who answers the most questions correctly. On the night of March 26, six Alabamans who havte dis'inguished themselves in the vocations of their choice in communities scattered all over the central part of the state were led across the burning sands of the desert and into the sacred shrine of Alpha Phi Alpha. These fortunate neophytes are: Dr. Floyd Ross, physician and surgeon of Montgomery. Dr. Ross is one of the most aggressive and popular young medics of the city, and enjoys a lucrative practice. He is a graduate of Howard University. Prof. T. J. Mayberry of State Teachers College. Brother Mayberry is a graduate of Talladega College and has credits at the U. of Pennsylvania towards his M. A. earned last year. Three principals of county training schools are represented on the list in the persons of K. B. Young of Atmore, W. O. Robinson of Renfroe, and A. Curtis Fair of Greensboro. All three of these brothers are making a name for themselves in their respective communities as educators and are graduates of Knoxville, and State Teachers College. Brother Renfroe spends his Summers studying at the University of Chicago, and Brother Fair will be remembered by many as an exceptional pianist who made his debut with the original 'Bama State Collegians. Brother Manly Banks is a State graduate of last Spring and is serving as assistant principal at Perry County Training School of Greenville, in this, his first year out of college after a brilliant collegiate record. Alpha Upsilon Lambda presents these new brothers to Alpha Phi Alpha with pardonable pride as newcomers who will quickly catch step with the onward march of Alpha and soon become potent forces in her progress. Certain activities of individual brothers deserve comment. Bro. Trenholm returned from Chicago March 17
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where he has completed all residence requirements and much of his research study for his doctor's degree in education at the University of Chicago. The popular State Teachers College prexy made use of a substantial scholarship received last year for his further study. Bro. J. G. Hardy, coach and director of Alumni Relations of 'Bama State, successfully terminated a popularity drive last month that netted over two thousand dollars for the institution as gym equipment fund. Bro. Simms is taking a leading role in propagating a recreation program for the race in a program supported by NYA. Bro. T. Smiley is closing out a highly successful year as coach and director of receational activities at the Booker Washington Public Junior High School. It is rumored that Bro. A. Campbell, expert mechanician and ladies' man, will soon trod the path of matrimony, leaving the excess female population of the community to Brothers Fletcher and Simpson. Recently the following brothers have visited the city on various occasions: H. W. McCoo of Bethune-Cookman, Dr. Reid Jackson of Dillard, Pres. F. D. Patterson of Tuskegee, Pres. Bell of Alcorn, and others. Brothers McCoo and Jackson were passing through, but Brother Patterson was main speaker at the local Business League Banquet, and Bro. Bell was Founder's Day speaker at State Teachers College. The brothers are planning their final meeting of the year for next month and will entertain all graduating brothers of Beta Upsilon as special guests. Always 100% for Alpha. Alpha "Upsilon Lambda, J. M. REYNOLDS, Guest Editor to Sphinx.
ETA CHAPTER Isles of Manhattan NEW YORK CITY, N. Y.
Brothers in Alpha:— Eta Chapter has gone far since you last heard from us. First we have had basketball. The team, under the guiding hand of Brother J. Coleman Williams, has vanquished Kappa twice; once lost and once beaten Sigma; and dropped to Omega. The Franklin B. Vaughn trophy cannot be awarded, due to a tie as regards the league standing. Brothers who have brought basketball glory to Eta include B. Wright, Henderson Brisbane, "Jo Jo" Carly, "Dolly" King, "Chicken" Day, "Lanky" Jones, Guy, Huddy Oliver, "Slim" Foster, "Leeney" Garner, and Ralph Garner. Ford Dabney is chairman of the rushing committee, and is rendering yeomen service. The following brothers are chairmen of their respective committees:—Clarence Holte, Athletic; Roland Jones, Audit; Fred Day, Personal Progress; Maurice Hicks, Education; Basil Booker, Scholarship; Cornelius Campbell, Social; Vester Fowlkes, Housing; and Charles E. Dallas and Vester Fowlkes, Pan Hellenic representatives. While touching the social sside, let us welcome the brothers to Eta's Formal to be held at the Savoy on the night of May 11th. The committee is working hard and the affair promises to be a gala one that will surpass all
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May, 1938
former ones. In passing congratulate George Fenderson who is now a proud father as well as a good brother. Preparations for the convention are being made and when the last good-bye will have been said you will be forced to agree that what we are doing will not have been done in vain. Eta has had visitors from near and afar. Track meets brought Brother Ralph Metcalfe and his lovely wife to New York to show a Sphinx man as a champion high jumper. Brother Mel Walker come once in awhile accompanied by Brother Eulace Peacock. When 'Pea" and Ben Johnson get their heads together, all sensible men take their girl friends out of circulation. "Ben" is doing OK. Brother Coleman Williams has admit'ed that he has a lovely wife and has gone housekeeping. Lest we forget:—Brother Richard Junius ("Dick" to you) Thomas has taken unto himself as lovely a wife as can be found in 48 states, and is definitely out of circulation. (Did I hear some sound of rejoicing?) Your humble servant watched his activities for years with fear and trembling and sighed with relief when he stuttered, "I Do." The better "three quarters" has the situation well in hand. The activities of the brothers have been well-rounded and in keeping with the highest ideals of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Fraternally yours, J. BARKSDALE BROWN. o
ETA IN EDUCATION By J E F F BEAVERS Having taken cognizance of the need of the Negro youth of New York City, Eta Chapter's Educational Committee, in cooperation with the Harlem Branch Y. M. C. A. is making plans to concentrate its efforts on vocational guidance which is considered as a phase of "Education for Citizenship." The program, as tentatively outlined, will take the form of a three-day conference on vocational guidance. Two large mass meetings are contemplated, one at the opening and the other at the close of the Conference. The real work of the Conference, however, will be done in small group discussion which will be led by persons chosen from those doing something unique in the guidance field and will be arranged on the basis of particular guidance. Activities:—1—Preparation for work. The necessity for more training after high school and the selection of a course of study that will prepare for a particular vocation; 2—Acquaintance with the World of Work. Information will be disseminated about occupations and about all the social and economic forces that play in and around occupations; 3—Personnel—which is concerned with the intergration of the individual after he gets a job and is important to his keeping a job. Teachers and guidance people in the public school system will be invited to attend as observers. Personnel directors of a number of industrial and business eestablishments will also be invited to tell the youths what they want and require. Finally, an outstanding Negro who has achieved in some particular vocation in spite of handicaps will be present to give the youths an extra bit of encouragement.
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LAMBDA CHAPTER
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BETA CHAPTER
Virginia State College
Howard University
Brothers in Alpha, Greetings: "Always something new from Africa", said a famous Roman. So it is with Brothers in Alpha Phi Alpha in general and with Brothers of Nu Lambda Chapter in particular. The undergraduate Chapter was responsible for a visit to the College community of Brother Belford V. Lawson, Jr., Eastern Regional Director, on February 20. Brother Lawson delivered a great message and challenge to the college youth on the struggle of the Negro people in America—one instance being the anti-lynching fight—for freedom equality and justice. After the public meeting, Brother Lawson met the Brothers of the under-graduate and graduate chapters and very clearly outlined the new program of Alpa Phi Alpha as it has been developing in recent years. This, indeed, was informing, challenging, and inspirational. At the meeting, March 20, 1938, of the Virginia Society for Regsearch, Brother James Hugo Johnson, Dean of the College, was unanimously re-elected president and was requested to write the history of the said organization. Brother Harry W. Roberts, Head of the Department of Sociology, reported on his survey of Negro farmers in two Virginia counties last September. He was elected a member of the Society. At the same meeting Brother Doxy Wilkerson, formerly of Virginia State College and of Nu Lambda Chapter and now of the Department of Education, Howard University, gave an exceptionally fine report on the study of Negro education which he is pursuing under the auspices of the Federal Bureau of Education. The Conference of State Supervisors and Teacher Trainers of Agricultural Education in the Negro Schools, convening at Howard University, March 29, April 1, honored Brother George W. Owens, Department of Agriculture and president of Nu Lambda, for his splendid service to Agricultural Education. He has been credited with being the founder of that great organization among rural Negro youth—the N. F. A., the New Farmers of America. The Brothers are looking forward with joy to the return of Brother Reuben McDaniel, who is on leave of absence pursuing his doctorate in mathematics on a fellowship granted him by that Institution. One of the items on the program of social activities for the spring term is the staging of a welcome dance to the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity in their annual State Convention to convene in Petersburg, May 13, 14. The dance will be given by our Chapter in cooperation with graduate Chapters of Greek letter organizations. Fraternally, HARRY W. ROBERTS, Editor to the Sphinx.
Greetings from Beta Chapter: Beta is winding up a successful season of achievement with plans for the greatest and best spring prom yet to be held—that is tantamount to saying that the impossible is about to be accomplished. For all who attended Beta's spring prom last year and swayed to the inimitably smooth strings of Brother Noble Sissle's Orchestra will long remember that gala event and will readily agree that that was the dance of dances. The top of tops. But I implore you, brother, in fact, I beseech you, not for a moment to think that Beta is solely and only "swing conscious". Beta has been is, and will continue to work, and work hard on Alpha's program. Under the leadership of President Edward Plummer, and under the direct and capable management of brother Johnnie Robinson, the chapter house a t 1917 Third St. is fast becoming a show place for the whole city. The floors have been painted and waxed. The walls have been repainted and work for the painting of the outside will soon be underway. At the meeting held last Wednesday, April 6th candidates were selected, and new members for the Sphinx Club were chosen. The various committees are all functioning as they should and Beta is really moving forward. Brother Belford Lawson, who takes a very active part in all fraternity activities in spite of his extensive law' practice, on March 28th of this year brought honor and fame to himself and to Alpha by so ably, intelligently, and convincingly arguing before the Supreme Court of the United States in the case of the New Negro Alliance versus The Sanitary Grocery Co., Inc. that he received the decision. The full significance of this decision cannot yet be determined, but it is to be remarked that Negroes are already being hired as clerks in the Sanitary Grocery Stores in the Negro districts. The Education for citizenship program is being seriously and systematically undertaken. Speakers from the ranks of the brothers are being recruited to talk on various phases of citizenship at various civic and Educational centers throughout the city. This program will culminate on Mother's Day with Beta conducting the services in the Howard University Chapel. Best wishes and good luck to all, Beta reasserts her allegiance and affiliation with all the chapters and brothers of Alpha. Sincerely and Fraternally, GEORGE E. CANNADY.
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DOES THE NEGRO REALLY CARE? (Continued from Page 9) capital cannot get along so well without labor and vice versa. But we know that, to a great extent, labor is dependent upon capital for even the primary necessities of life. Who represents capital in the United States and for the most part, throughout the world ? Foolish question. Almost any high-school kid knows the answer. How many Negro capitalists, worthy of the name, do you know? Oh yes, we know that there are a few Negro bankers, manufacturers, insurance brokers, whoesalers, retailers, publishers, etc. who own and control some capital. We know further that the estimated purchasing power of Negroes in this country in 1929 was four billion five hundred dollars. *1. But in spite of all this and more, is it not true that the Negro is economically dependent upon the white man ? Is it not true that he is in a large measure a parasite? Even thoug-h you insist upon using the common dictionary definition of the term "capitalist" will the dark-complexioned American be able to command any kind of rating as a capitalist in comparison with his pale-faced fellowcitizen? To how many workers, men, women or children can the so-called black capitalist give employment? In most cases, he is fortunate if he is able to net a return large enough to keep the proverbial wolf away from his own door. We admit that there are cases in which he is able to and does hire and pay from five to twenty-five workers, or perhaps more. There are some few cases in which even a hundred or two hundred employees are hired at reasonable wages. But add the number of all such workers together, if you will, and note how insignificant your total will appear when compai-ed with the total number of Negroes, ten years of age and older, who are gainfully occupied in this country. In 1930, only 59.2 per cent of those in the fore-stated age group were employed at all. Of this percentage, 36.1 per cent were engaged in agricultural pursuits, 28.6 per cent in domestic and personal service and 18.6 per cent in the manufacturing and mechanical industries. One might with perfect safety estimate that not more than fifteen per cent were employed by Negroes. During the past six years, practically all of these percentages have dropped considerably. In the course of the Great Depression, Negroes were thrown on the relief rolls by the thousands. It was then in particular that the hackneyed howl of "first fired and last re-hired" was heard from the pulpit, public platform, classroom, street corner and read in periodicals from one end of the country to the other. "Highups" and "Low-downs" alike blamed this situation principally upon race prejudice. "They, (meaning white people) will not give our people a chance to work;" "They are taking from us even the menial jobs that for more than a century have been commonly known as "Negro jobs." "A chance! A chance!" has been the everlasting cry. The unscrupulously merciless wave of depression, which is no respecter of persons, race, nor nationalities was sweeping down upon society and all groups and classes were feeling its sting in some way or other. Was it any more than natural that a parent should seek first to rescue his own flesh and blood before he sought to save his neighbor's child from the mad deluge? As a group, they cry for a chance to work; a chance for â&#x20AC;˘ 1 . Harris. Abram Lâ&#x20AC;&#x17E; T H E NEGRO AS CAPITALIST p. 179.
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economic security. But have they not already had and do they not still have opportunity or "a chance" ? It is true that Negroes in general have never earned big salaries nor wages. It is also true that race prejudice has almost constantly raised its hideous fangs to obstruct the economic progress of the group. Innumerable odds have been against this race of people. But in spite of these things, they have, in some manner or other, managed to hang on to life and have apparently liked it. To the writer, however, a very pertinent question is: "What has the Negro done with the little chance he has had ? Has he not been far more interested in the superficial and intangible than the fundamental and tangible? Has not his mind been more set upon "keeping up with the Joneses," or becoming what he thought was "more and more like the white folk" in outward appearance than upon building a sound and firm economic foundation ? Since the emancipation of slaves in this country, Negroes have earned or acquired in one way or another billions of dollars in cash, land and general property. Even their total net aggregate cash income alone over that period has been no mere pittance. Yes, the Negro has possessed at least a measurable portion of the world's economic goods and even today he owns and controls enough capital, if put to proper use, to be able to take a considerable percentage of the group out of the bread lines and off the relief rolls. The writer knows personally (and no doubt the reader does too) scores of Negroes in this country whose annual net incomes vary from $1,000 to $15,000. Even those whose incomes are smaller could, through intelligent spending, contribute much toward the economic security of the group. More and better factories, machine-shops and the like could be established so as to offer more employment opportunities. It seems as though the race has been subscribing to the wrong economic policy. Too large a proportion of the group has been trying to ape the wrong characteristics of their white fellow citizens. They have noticed their white neighbors only when they (their neighbors) came out dressed for the social affairs, or "mi lady" or "mi lord" when entertaining at tea, bridge, poker, etc. To the darker brother, these particular things seemed glamorous and great, so he decided that he must do them himself. He thought' very little, if at all, about just how all of these splendors had been made possible. The thought of longtime planning, thinking and sacrifice (real sacrifice) never crossed his mind. These latter phases had not impressed nor caught his fancy as the other had, so he decided that "if the white man can do these things, so can I." With practically no experience nor knowledge of economic planning and hence with no firmly established economic foundation, he sat about to build for himself first of all a "Negro Four Hundred." Pleasure before Business, or in reality Pleasure and Show-off became his chief business. The Negro became, and is today to a large extent, society struck. All roads led to Light-heartedness. Let us briefly view the current situation. Too many men and women in the respective fields of endeavor wish, pray and they frequently even work for higher salaries or wagesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;not primarily that they may be able to further some sound and well-thought out economic plan for the economic security of the individual or group, but rather in order that he or she may be able to put on a better outside show. He must have the latest model automobile; his wife must have fine fur coats and evening gowns just like, if not better than those owned by the Van Horn;
May, 1938
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he must be able to give formal dinner parties precisely like those given' by the Morganbilts. Mrs. Park Avenue uses a $10 cold cream and a $2.50 soap to keep her complexion just right, so Mrs. Sugar Hill, or Mrs. South Parkway must use those same kinds, for no other kind agrees with her skin; white clubs, fraternities and sororities have club houses and give periodic social functions that cost hundreds of dollars, so Negro organizations must do likewise in order to keep apace. And so on and on ad infinitum with such foolish, thoughtless aping. There are at the present time hundreds of boys and girls in our educational institutions, who are too poor to pay their tuition, board, etc., to say nothing of being able to buy books and other necessities, but they pay willingly and anxiously from $30 to $60 to join social fraternities or clubs. They will gladly put in their respective $5 or $10 for a big dance even though they have not even the slightest idea whence next quarter's or next semester's tuition, book money, etc. will come. Not long ago, the writer attended a private, invitational (free) dinner dance which cost the host organization five hundred and sixty dollars. The affair lasted four hours. On their printed invitations was a list of the members of this organization. A survey of the known incomes of the group varied from $75 to $175 a month with a mean income of $101 a month. Pathetic! My reader may choose here to remind me that social life and pleasure are fundamental factors for a healthy society. I am well aware of that fact, and I insist that "Jack" should have some play. But my main contention is that "Jack's" play should not cost him more than he earns from his work. One can play better and with a great deal more effect and results after one's work is done and done well than he can before his work is done. Generally, one can work better, feel better, think more clearly and live more wholesomely when he knows that as results of hard work, real sacrifice, clear thinking and' constructive planning, he has been able to give himself and family at least a reasonable amount of economic security and has been able to make some contribution to the general welfare of society. Of course, life is also enjoyable when one does not have to spend so much of his time dodging bill collectors. The Negro will remain a weakling, a ne'er-do-well, a beggar, a mere pawn in the economic structure until at least an appreciable percentage of the group learns to give much more study and attention to the sound and fundamental factors of his economic well-being and far less to the superficial and the pseudo. He must learn to balance his budget, and of course that means that he must first have a budget. He must give up (at least until he can really afford them) his silks, satins, furs, etc., go back to the ground, don his overalls, roll up his sleeves and begin to tear out the flimsy, shaky, sandy foundation that will weather the storms. He must learn to plan well the management of his households, farms, stores, banks, etc. And most of all, he must learn to do without extra trimmings until the primary necessities of life are securely provided for. "One cannot eat his pie and have it." If the Negro continues to spend his last dollar to go "Stomping at the Savoy" while other more essential and fundamental factors for his welfare go lacking, he will find himself continuing to hold a constant place at the very bottom of the economic structure. In short, he will remain an economic dependent in society. Can it be possible that he is content with his present economic status
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and outlook? Has he no ambition to rise? Or do the words of the blues writer express his sentiment: "Been down so long, gettin' up don't cross my mind." Will he "always sow while others r e a p ? " Does the Negro care? o
ALPHA'S EDUCATION PROGRAM (Continued from Page 3) Labor Unionist of New York, was published by the Columbia University Press in 1936. These results justify in no uncertain way our policy of making the awards; they also afford ample proof of the wise selection of the Committee on Awards. VISITS TO CHAPTERS It was my great privilege to attend meetings with a considerable number of chapters. They were: Beta Tau which I helped to set up at New Orleans; a joint meeting at Petersburg of Gamma, Beta Gamma Lambda, and Nu Lambda, at which ten chapters were represented; Epsilon Lambda, St. Louis; Mu Lambda, Washington; Omicron Lambda, Birmingham; Pi Lambda, Little Rock; Alpha Delta Lambda and Beta Xi, Memphis; Alpha Nu Lambda, Tuskegee; Alpha Chi Lambda, Augusta; Beta Lambda, Kansas City; Alpha Chi, Nashville. I was frequently able to combine my engagements so that these visits were made with a minimum of cost to the chapters. OTHER ACTIVITIES During the past two years I addressed public meetings under the auspices of chapters in Augusta, Nashville, and Montgomery. I talked with individual brothers in cities too numerous to mention. These chapter meetings and individual conferences permitted me to explain in detail the plans of my office and to learn the wishes and thoughts from brothers over a wide area. It might not be amiss for me to point out that your director of education was the coordinator of the only Federal Public Forum in which Negroes bad their own unit of relief and non-relief workers. RECOMMENDATIONS 1. I recommend that the Fraternity concentrate its efforts upon the same four objectives. 2. Specifically, I recommend that the October issue of the Sphinx contain a report from each chapter of its educational campaign. 3. I recommend the publication of a book, out of the revolving fund, that will bring up to date the investigation of the New Deal and the Negro. 4. I recommend two one hundred dollar scholarships to undergraduates in each jurisdiction. 5. I recommend a special award in aeronautics of five hundred dollars open to undergraduates and graduates, for the school year 1938-1939, or earlier if practicable. 6. I recommend an, annual fellowship of seven hundred fifty dollars to be awarded in whole or in part. 7. I recommend a contribution of five hundred dollars to the John Hope Memorial Fund in Atlanta University. I can not close this report without expressing my hearty appreciation of the cooperation that I have received from the general officers, chapter officials, and individual Brothers. Fraternally yours, RAYFORD W. LOGAN, Director of Education.
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T H E S P H I N X
M a y , 1938
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CHAPTER 38
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49 50.
ROSTER-Continued
£ i? ? ? ° — M ° r e h o u s e College, Atlanta University, Morris Brown College, Atlanta, Georgia; Pres. William Nix; Sec. Charles Saxon; C. Sec. Gerorne H. Taylor, Morehouse College. ALPHA SIGMA—Wiley College, Bishop College, Marshall, Texas; Pres. i w ^ " Bo s " e 1 1 : Sec. Wesley J. Marshall; C. Sec. Lewis R. Hurt, Jr., Wiley College. ALPHA TAU—University of Akron, Akron, Ohio; Pres. Norman O. Chestnut, 276 Euclid St.; Sec. Rufus L. Thompson, 647 Edgewood Ave. ALPHA UPSILON—City College Detroit, Detroit, Michigan; Pres. Nathaniel H. Leach, 2334 McDougall; Sec. Colonel Smith, 5511 McKinley. ALPHA PHI—Clark University, Atlanta, Georgia; Pres. Edward M c Gowen; Sec. John T. Mims, Clark University. ALPHA CHI—Fisk University, Nashville, Tennessee; Pres. Ralph W. A T D S T ' D I ^ ' , R o b e r t M - Hendrick, Fisk University. c H~ ,A PSI—Lincoln University, Jefferson City, Missouri; Pres. James F. Goble; Sec. Mallalieu S. Woolfolk; C. Sec. Roger Duncan, Lincoln University. B E A - T ALPHA—Morgan College, Baltimore, Maryland; Pres. Herbert RE-rl rJci-T. ' •*• Hyland Reid, Morgan College. • i ii —University of Nebraska, Creighton University, Municipal SUniversity, Omaha, Lincoln, Nebraska; Pres. Merle Herriford, 1035 S S £ t -: Sec. G l i n « T. Bradford, 2519 Maple St. Omaha, Nebraska. Bb I A GAMMA—Virginia State College, Ettrick, Virginia; Pres. Jack H. Robinson; C. Sec. Walter C. Blount, Jr.; R. Sec. Waid S. Phelps, Va. State College. zF1^ d De E; L STcAc— S t a t e College, Orangeburg, South Carolina; Pres. Ronald £tj;' - Albert H. Manning, State College. BETA EPSILON—Agricultural and Technical College, Greensboro, . ° 5 h Carolina; Pres. Stanford L. McKethan; Sec. Mercer Z. Ray, A. « T. College. BETA ZETA—Samuel Huston College, Austin, Texas; Pres. Jackson L>. Smith, Jr., Samuel Huston College; Sec. LaVon E. Smith, 1314 Bob Harrison St.
51, 52. 53. 54. «« 56. 57. 5g_ 59. 60. 61. 62. 63. 64. 65.
BETA ETA—Southern Illinois Teachers College, Carbondale, Illinois; Pres. Arnold C. Banister, Jr., 412 S. Illinois Ave.; Sec. Gaffney Taylor, Colp, Illinois. BETA THETA—Bluefield, State Teachers College, Bluefield, West Co'lte"^ ' • J o M p h W - P e r r y ; S e c - L e R °>' B - A U e n - State Teachers BETA IOTA—Western State Teachers College, Kalamazoo, Michigan; P , T , (5 ack . 1 f y L E - Woodf°rd1 H N. Park St.; Sec. John T. Tapley. 133 1 w . Michigan. BETA KAPPA—Langston University, Langston. Oklahoma; Pres. Paul L. Strong; Sec. James E. McCann. Langston University. BETA MU—Kentucky State College, Frankfort, Kentucky; Pres. Grover nr5S-»"£;,, Sel: ;.. W - Burghardt Turner, Kentucky State College. ?FF.A , N U—Florida A. ec M. College, Tallahassee, Florida; Pres. A. L. McMeekin; Sec. Amos L. Parrish, Florida A. 42 M. College. BETA XI—Le Moyne College, Memphis, Tennessee; Pres. Martin D S C T ? ' ™ C T ! K£ h i a .., S, -.L Se£ - Harvey P. Williams, 598 Walker Ave. BETA OMICRON—Tennessee A. Bi I. State College, Nashville. Tennessee; Pres. L. C. Turner; Sec. William M. Hafford, Tenn. A. * I. State College. BETAc PI—Lane College, Jackson, Tennessee; Pres. Artis N. Burrow; K- £* - J°e S. Merry; C. Sec. Samuel W. Seals, Lane College. BETA RHO—Shaw University, St. Augustine's College, Raleigh, North Carolina; Pres. Benjamin A. Collier; R. Sec. Clarence T. Tobias; C. bee. George D. Marshall, Shaw University. BETA SIGMA—Southern University, Scotlandville, Louisiana; Pres. n c r i T i i , i l ; S e c ' E d * a r T - Thornton, Southern University. BETA TAU—Xavier University, New Orleans, Louisiana; Pres. Peter W. Clark; Sec. Walter Morial, Xavier University. B f J A UPSILON—State Teachers College. Montgomery, Alabama; Pres. J ™ ' L. Mitchell; Scc. Louis C. Simpson, State Teachers College. B g l A PHI—Dillard University, New Orleans, Louisiana; To Be Set Up. BETA CHI—Philander Smith College, Little Rock, Arkansas. To Be Set Up.
CHAPTER R O S T E R - G r a d u a t e 101. ALPHA LAMBDA—Louisville, Ky., Pres., Lyman T. Johnson, 2627 Madison St.; Sec, Lee L. Brown, 1012 W. Chestnut St. 102. BETA LAMBDA—Kansas City, Mo., Pres., Dr. A. C. Wilson, 2219 I racy; C. Sec, James A. Jeffress, 2732 Highland. 103. GAMMA LAMBDA—Detroit, Mich., Pres., Dr. William L. Postles, 503 b. Warren Ave.; Sec, Grover D . Lange, 607 Adams Ava. B. 104. P , E t T , A LAMBDA—Baltimore, Md., Pres., Furman L. Templeton, 1402 McCullough St.; Sec, Clarence C. Jackson, 2325 Madison Ave. 105. EPSILON LAMBDA—St. Louis, Mo., Pres., Dr. J. Owen Blache, 2945 Lawton Ave.; C. Sec, Joseph C. Chapman, 4222 W. North Market St. 106. ZETA LAMBDA—Newport News, Va., Pres., T. Roger Thompson, 841 Hampton Ave.; Sec, Attorney R. H. Pree, 2411 Jefferson Ave.; Asst. aec, Charles H. Jones, 1125—40th St. 107. THETA LAMBDA—Dayton, Ohio., Pres., Dr. C. R. Price., 476 S. Broadway; Sec, Theodore C. Carter, 16 Sweetman St. 108. ETA LAMBDA—Atlanta, Ga., Pres., Theodore M. Alexander, 982 Ashby Grove S. W.; Sec, NeUon C. Jackson, 247 Henry St.. S. W. 109. IOTA LAMBDA—Indianapolis, Ind., Sec, Grant W. Hawkins, 2627 onnver Ave. 110. KAPPA LAMBDA—Greensboro, N. C , Pres., William E. Beaver; Sec, Benjamin H. Crutcher, A Be T. College. 111. M U LAMBDA—Wash., D - C - P r M - . J » m « B. Browning, 151 "V" St., IN. W.; Sec, George W. Peterson, 604 D St., N. W. 112. N U LAMBDA—Ettrick. Va., V. Pres., George W. Owens; Sec, James B. Cephas, Va. State College. 113. XI LAMBDA—Chicago, 111., Pres., Luther S. Peck., 3560 S. Parkway; bee, Laurence T. Young, 6542 St. Lawrence Ave. 114. ° £ K C £ O N , LAMBDA—Birmingham, Ala., Pres., Arthur D. Shores, KhU No. 1, Box 755, Bessemer, Ala.; Sec, H. Lovell Mosely, 1304 First Court, W. 115. oJ. LAMBDA—Little Rock, Ark., Pres., Dr. J. B. Jordan, 610'/ W. 2 9tn bt.; Sec, C. Franklin Brown, 1019 Cross St, 116. RHO LAMBDA—Buffalo, N. York, Pres., Alfred D. Davis, 121 Northland Ave.; Sec, Robert A. Burrell, 732 Brisbane Bldg. 117. I J G r 5 ^ LAMBDA—New Orleans, La., Pres., William E. Belton, 2216 at. Klulip St.; Sec Ferdinand L. Rousseve, Xavier University. 118. TAU LAMBDA—Nashville, Tenn., Pres., William D. Hawkins, Fisk University; Sec, James R. Anderson, 1027—18th Ave. N. 119. UPSILON LAMBDA—Jacksonville, Fla., Pres., Charles S. Long, Jr., bdward Waters College; Sec, H. James Greene, Edward Waters College. 120. ST^H. LAMBDA—Raleigh, N. C , Pres., Dr. Robert P. Daniel; S e c , Walker H. Queries, Jr., Shaw University. 121. CHI LAMBDA—Wilberforce, Ohia, Pres., Milton S. J. Wright: S e c , Raymond O. Dickerson. Wilberforce University. 122. PSI LAMBDA—Chattanooga, Tenn., Pres., Booker T. Scruggs, 1909 Blackford St.; Sec, George A. Keys, 1211 Poplar St. 123. t^-P^. ALPHA LAMBDA—Newark, N. Jersey, Pres., Dr. Ferdinand w/n- U » m s ' , l ? 1 Bloomfield Ave., MohtcWr, N. J.; Sec, Arthur C. Williams, 136 Lincoln St., Montclair. BBTA 124. ^F1^ LAMBDA—Lexington, Ky., Pres., Edward M. Chenault, 226 PW. 6th St.; Sec, Dr. Henry A. Merchant, 126 DeWeese St. A H A 125. i T „ G A , M M A LAMBDA—New York City, Pres., Dr. Farrow R. Allen, 337 W. 138th St.; S e c . Ewart G. Guinier, 327 Putnam Ave., Brooklyn, N. Y.
Chapters
126. ALPHA. DELTA LAMBDA—Memphis, Tenn., Pres., Hugh McGloster, 711 Edith St.; Sec, Abner B. Owen, Jr., 598 Williams Ave.; C. Sec, J. bdward Cotton, 348 N. Manassas. 127. ALPHA EPSILON LAMBDA—Jackson, Miss., Pres., Everett R. Lawrence Tougaloo College, Tougaloo, Miss.; Sec, Alan T. Busby, Box 176, Alcorn, Miss. 128. ALPHA ZETA LAMBDA—Bluefield. W. Va., Pres., John H. Frnklin, Kimball, W. Va.; Sec, Edward W. Browne, Box 576, Kimball, W. Va. 129. ALPHA ETA LAMBDA—Houston, Texas, Pres., John E. Codwell, 3420 Dennis Sr., Houston, Texas; Sec, Fred A. Jackson, Prairie View College, Prairie View, Texas. 130. ALPHA THETA LAMBDA—Atlantic City, N. J., INACTIVE — Address—C. M. Cain, Artie Ave., YMCA. 131. ALPHA IOTA LAMBDA—Charleston, W. Va., Pres., Earl J. Reason, Jr., 611 Shrewsbury St.; Sec, J. Kermit Hall, 1332 Washington St. E. 132. ALPHA KAPPA LAMBDA—Roanoke, Va., Pres., Dr. Elwood D. Down. mg, 236 Patterson Ave., NW; Sec, Dr. George A. Moore, 160 E. Vine St. 133. ALPHA MU LAMBDA—Knoxville, Tenn., Pres., Dr. N. A. Henderson, 123 E. Vine St., Sec, J. I. Seals, 209 Deaderick Ave. 134. ALPHA N U LAMBDA—Tuskegee, Ala., Pres., W. Henri Payne; Sec, Hollis F. Price, Tuskagee Institute. 13 5. ALPHA XI LAMBDA—Toledo, Ohio, Pres., William T. McKnight, II., 738 City Park Ave.; Sec, Roy L. Shelton, 1019 Palmwood Ave. 136. ALPHA OMICRON LAMBDA—Pittsburgh, Pa., Pres., Henry D. Pnmas, 8360 Bricelyn St.; Sec, Wilbur C. Douglass, 518 Fourth Ave. 137. ALPHA PI LAMBDA—Winston-Salem, N. C , Pres., Walker E. Pitts, 1117 E. 11th; C. Sec, William R. Crawford; F. Sec, Dr. E. Shepard Wright, Bruce Bldg. 138. ALPHA RHO LAMBDA—Columbus, Ohio, Pres., Dr. H. Sherman Manuel, 275 S. Grant Ave.; Sec, Louis H. Schuster, 1348 E. Long St. 139. ALPHA SIGMA LAMBDA—Dallas, Texas, Pres., A. Maceo Smith, 2913 Thomas Ave.; Sec, C. Paul Johnson, 2700 Flora St. 140. ALPHA TAU LAMBDA—Tulsa, Okla., Pres., Archie L. Morgan, 643 E. Marshall PI.; Sec, J. Tyler Smith, 124 N. Greenwood St. 141. ALPHA UPSILON LAMBDA—Montgomery, Ala, Pres., Cohen T. Simp. son; Sec, J. Garrick Hardy, State Teachers College. 142. ALPHA PHI LAMBDA—Norfolk, Va., Pres., W. T. Mason; Sec, Thomas W. Young, 721 Chapel St. 143. ALPHA CHI LAMBDA—Augusta, Ga„ Pres., A. Murray Carter, 1108 —12th St.; Sec, Joel W. Wallace, 1112 Philip St. 144. ALPHA PSI LAMBDA—Columbia, S. C , Pres., , Sec, Harry B. Rutherford, 1330 Gregg St. 145. BETA ALPHA LAMBDA—Jersey City, N. J., Pres., Dr. W. Harold Branch, 190 Duncan Ave.; S e c , John B. Frazier, 57Va Jewett Ave. 146. BETA BETA LAMBDA—Miami. Fla., Pres., Dr. Felix E. Butler, 366 N. W. 14th St.; Sec, Frederick L. Johnson, 159 N . W. 10th St. 147. BETA GAMMA LAMBDA—Richmond, Vs., Pres., E. M. Burks, 806 N. 6th St.; Sec, David Graves, 622 Judah St.; Asst. Sec, Lester Hill, 1600 Everette St. 148. BETA DELTA LAMBDA—Daytona Beach, Fla.. Pres., Charles J. Greene, Sec, James A. Colston, Rigby Junior High School, Ormond, Fla. 149. BETA EPSILON LAMBDA—Wewoka, Okla., Pres., Dr. D . A. French, 201 S. Seminole; Sec, William A. Dobson, Box 216, Lima, Okla. 150. BETA ZETA LAMBDA—Jefferson City, Mo., TO BE SET UP. 151. BETA ETA LAMBDA—Oklahoma City, Okla., Pres., Dr. G. E. Finlev; Sec. William Johnson, % Alexander Dumas, 704 N. E. 4th St., Okla. City, Okla.
FRATERNITY PRAYER (O Lord) "May the true spirit of Fraternity rule our hearts, guide our thoughts, and control our lives, so that we may become through Thee, servants of all." (Amen.)