The SPHINX | Summer 1939 | Volume 25 | Number 3 193902503

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Please note: This is Volume 25, Number 3 August, 1939 The volume number is misprinted on the title page

Some of the pages are damaged or missing The best copy available was scanned

COME T O . . .

LOUISVILLE

THE HARLEM BRANCH Y M C A extends its many services to the

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity

IN 1941

Every employee has a consciousness t h a t members and friends of the Association must be satisfied.

FOR THE

The fine food in the CAFETERIA is one demonstration of the better service

NEXT GENERAL . . .

A4A . . . CONVENTION

HOSPITABLE ACCESSIBLE PBOGBESSIVE

435 ROOMS HARLEM BRANCH Y M C A Two Buildings: 180 West 135th St.—181 West 135th St. New York City

CLARK'S TRAVEL BUREAU

(Alpha's Oldest Graduate Chapter)

Offer something new to the Colored Tourist and Traveler. We prepare your route, going and returning, to any place in the United States you may wish to visit. Also where you will be served with the best food and find reliable sleeping accomodations in the cities and towns you will pass through to your destination.

ALPHA PI

Just let us know where you want to go and enclose $1.

Four Chapters To Serve You

ALPHA LAMBDA (Lou.

Mun. College)

BETA MU (Ky. State Colege)

CLARK'S TRAVEL BUREAU 619 SOUTH M A I N STREET CHAMBERSBURG, PENNA.

ALPHA BETA LAMBDA (Lexington, Ky.)

KEYSTONE THE OLD RELIABLE CO. LA JAC BEAUTY PREPARATIONS

Give Kentucky Its First Alpha

BIG CASH EVERY DAY AGENTS LINE AGENTS WANTED Write To

Convention

Keystone the Old Reliable Co. MEMPHIS TENN.

THE SPHINX

Official Organ of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc PUBLISHED FEBRUARY. MAY, OCTOBER, and DECEMBER VOLUME 27

NUMBER 3

AUGUST. 1939

MAYOR OF MEMPHIS

Table Of Contents Page

MAYOR OVERTON

CITY OF MEMPHIS COMMISSION GOVERNMENT MEMPHIS, TENN. July 15th, 1939 Office of the Sphinx, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Memphis, Tennessee.

Dear Sirs: Memphis has been proud to be the home for the publication of the SPHINX magazine. Under the direction of its capable Editor, Lewis 0. Swingler, it has indeed become a fine publication, promoting the high ideals and the fine principles of your Fraternity.

As Memphis is in the center of the great Mid-South it is fitting that the official publication of the largest and most outstanding Negro Greek letter Society should be published in our city; and we have appreciated the fact that it has been published here and hope it will grow with the years.

May I express the sincere hope that the 33rd Anniversary Convention of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity to be held in New York City, will be one of the most successful in the Fraternity's history. There never was a time in history when our country needed more than it does today young men trained to carry on the high ideals and principles of our great nation.

Very sincerely yours, WATKINS OVERTON, Mayor.

Front Cover, Al Branham, Alpha Psi Memphis' Mayor Extends Greetings 1 Convention Call __.

3 N. Y. Convention Program 4—6 Pioneering A New Field 7 N. Y. Greatest Of Host 8 Life Members 9 Greetings From Jewels, Officers 10—14 Greetings From Sphinx Staff 15 Choice—Placement Factor In Job Market 16 Book Reviews 17 Our Marion Sang—Poem -.__.„ 18 When You've Done Your Best—Poem 18 Alpha Phi Alpha Hymn 19—21 Expands Health Program 22 Youth 24 Fraternity Fun 24 Alpha As World Organization 28 Voice Of The Sphinx ; : ; * : ' . ' 3fj Omega Chapter .

Cover 3

Entered as second class matter at the Post Office in Memphis, Tenn., as issued four time 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 Price—One Dollar and Fifty Cents Per Year

Page 2

THE

August, 1939

SPHINX

HERE AND THERE IN NEW YORK—ALPHA'S CONVENTION CITY

mm

Photo by Brother Whibby, N. Y.

369th Infantry at Camp Smith, Peekskill, passes in review, top section. The famous Dunbar Apartments, located at 150th Street at 7th Avenue, is seen in the lower section. It is the home of many noted and nationally known race celebrities

Compliments

CLYDE COLLINS, lite.

Front—McCall - Memphis, Tenn.

PHONE 8-951 1—Office Hours From 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and by Appointment

DR. KITTRELLE'S CLINIC Many Years Experience ALL MODERN METHODS OF TREATMENT INCLUDING X RAY AND H E A T THERAPY Established Consultation In All Branches In Medicine 169 BEALE AVE.

MEMPHIS, TENN.

THE

August, 1939

SPHINX

Page 3

T h e M e s s a g e and Convention Call LET'S MAKE 1939 SESSION GREATEST IN OUR HISTORY

By DR. CHARLES H. WESLEY, General President

TTO the Chapters and Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha:

The New York World's Fair of 1939 is the additional attraction which this convention city ofI am officially informfers. This event in com. ing you that the Thirtymemoration of the 150th third Anniversary Conanniversary of the inaugvention and the Twentyuration of George Washseventh General Convenington as the first Prestion of our Fraternity ident of t h e United is called to assemble in States is an attempt to New York City during the last three working show the kind of a world days of August, in 1939, we shall build tomorrow. with the Eta Chapter It is intended to demonand Alpha Gamma Lambstrate the tools, the mada Chapter as official terials, t h e machines hosts, in accordance with which are now helping the action of the Thirtyto build this world. Befirst Anniversary Convention —• The Twentyyond all of this will be sixth General Conventhe evidence that all peotion—at New Orleans, ple are knit together in Louisiana, December 28bonds of interdependence 31, 1937. The Convenand that isolation is a tion in New York will thing of the past. We as mark the Thirty-third a fraternity are more diyear of our existence unrectly concerned with der the name of "Alpha Phi Alpha." this latter aspect of this spectacle. While we welIt was on October 23, come a material world 1906 that Alpha Chapof tomorrow, we are conter at Cornell Universicerned that this world ty, Ithaca, New York, deshall improve spiritually cided on motion of Jewin its relations that the ell Kelly, to select this DR spirit of the fraternity title for our Fraternity.

- CHARLES H. WESLEY, Ph. D. This was a unique action in our history and is approand the relations of brotherhood shall become realities priately commemorated by us. We return this year to both in the World of Today as well as the World of Tothe state which gave us birth thirty-three years ago. morrow. Our fraternity as an organization and individual Our General Convention met last in New York City in brothers have been active and cooperating in our local 1924 in the Seventeenth General Convention. Another communities and on the national front in bringing in such homecoming now takes place in the greatest city in the a New Day in our life in the United States. This day has world. We believe that all active brothers will desire not yet dawned but we can see the beginnings of a rising to be present and help in celebrating this anniversary sun and we are not discouraged. occasion. While we will not be returning to Ithaca itFrom present indications, it seems that this convenself, we will be returning to the state which gave us tion will be the largest convention in our history. We birth and will be gathering inspiration during these hope that all brothers who can will come to this consessions for our fraternal life of the future. The Convenvention. No one of you who has not participated in an tion Committees under the direction of Brother FarAlpha General Convention can have an adequate and row R. Allen are working hard at the task of preparing comprehensive appreciation for the fraternity. Your chapfor our convention. Their slogan is "Let's make the 1939 ter activities and local personal relations enable you Convention the Greatest in Alpha History.''

Continued On Page 38

Page 4

THE SPHINX

N. Y. C onvention PROGRAM OF the Twenty-Seventh General Convention of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity New York City August 28-31, 1939 Convention Headquarters College of the City of New York Monday, August 28, 1939 9:00 A. M.—11:00 A. M.—Registration of delegates and brothers, Convention Headquarters.

Meeting of the Executive Council.

11:00 A. M.—1:00 P . M.—Opening Business Session. Call to Order, Brother Farrow R. Allen, Eastern Vice President.

Invocation, Brother Rev. Shelton Hale Bishop.

Fraternity Hymn.

Welcome Addresses: (a) on behalf of Eta Chapter, Brother Andrew Tyler, President. (b) on behalf of Alpha Gamma Lambda Chapter, Brother Gerald Norman, Financial Secretary.

Response, Brother Bert A. McDonald, Western Vice-President.

Presentation of the General President, Brother Jewel Vertner W. Tandy.

Introduction of General Officers.

Appointment of Convention Officials.

Appointment of Committee on Rules and Credentials.

Appointment of Special Committees.

Introductions of Jewels, delegates and brothers.

Recess.

2:00 P. M.—6:00 P . M.—Business Session.

Call to Order.

Fraternity Prayer.

Fraternity Hymn.

Report of Committee on Rules and Credentials.

Roll Call and Seating.

Communications and announcements.

Convention Address of the General President.

Introductions.

Report of the Executive Council.

Report of the Southern Vice President, Brother Charles W. Greene.

Report of the Eastern Vice President, Brother Farrow R. Allen.

Report of the Western Vice President, Brother Bert A. McDonald.

Address of the Guest Founder, Brother H. A. Callis.

Introduction of Jewels.

Period of Inspiration and Song.

Adjournment.

8 00 P. M.—Public Session.

Chapel of the City College of New York—West 138 Street and Convent Avenue.

"America".

August, 1939

Frogfram

Invocation, Brother Rev. John H. Johnson.

Music.

Welcome Addresses: (five minutes). (a) On behalf of the City, Mayor F . H. La Guardia. (b) On behalf of the State, Lieutenant Gov. Charles Poletti. (c) On behalf of the Fraternities.

(1) Omega Psi Phi, Mr. Colden L. Brown.

(2) Kappa Alpha Psi, Mr. William Martin.

(3) Phi Beta Sigma, Mr. B. Franklin Vaughn. (d) On behalf of the sororities.

(1) Alpha Kappa Alpha, Miss Orra Jones.

(2) Delta Sigma Theta (To be selected).

(3) Zeta Phi Beta (To be selected).

(4) Phi Delta Kappa, Mrs. Gertrude Robinson.

Response to welcome addresses, Brother T. E. Berry, General Counsel.

The Negro National Anthem—"Lift every voice and sing".

Music.

Presentation of General President by Brother Judge Myles A. Paige, Magistrates Court, New York City.

Convention Address, Brother Dr. M. S'. Davage, President, Clark University, Atlanta, Ga. Introduction of Founders.

Introduction of General Officers.

Alpha Phi Alpha Hymn.

Benediction, Brother Rev. Willam L. Immes.

10:30 P. M.—12:00 M.—Reception—College of the City of New York.

Tuesday, August 29, 1939 9:00 A. M.—11:00 A. M. Committee Meetings.

11:00 A. M.—2:00 P. M.—Business Session.

Call to Order.

Fraternity Prayer.

Fraternity Hymn.

Roll Call.

Reading of Minutes. • Communications and Announcements.

Report of the Regional Directors.

Report of the General Secretary, Brother J . H. B. Evans.

Report of the General Treasurer, Brother P. R. Piper.

Report of the Director of Education, Brother Dr. Rayford W. Logan.

Report of the Editor of the Sphinx, Brother Lewis O. Swingler.

The Alpha Phi Alpha Hymn.

The Fraternal Address—Brother Dr. Channing H. Tobias, Senior Secretary and Member of International Committee, Y. M. C. A. Remarks by Jewels and Brothers.

Period of Inspiration and Song.

Adjournment.

2:00 P. M.—3:00 P . M.—Recess.

August, 1939

THE

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S P H I N X

CITY COLLEGE OF NEW YORK WHERE ALPHA WILL HOLD ITS SESSIONS

Photo by Whibby, New York

New York City College where all sessions of the 27th General Convention of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity will be held August 28-31st, "In order that the proper academic atmosphere may be given." Many social affairs incident to the Convention, however, will take the brothers back to the one and only Harlem.

3:00 P. M.—6:00 P. M.—Business Session.

Call to Order.

Fraternity Prayer.

Report of the General Counsel.

Report of the Committee on Public Policy.

Report of the Foundation Publishers.

Report of the Housing Commission.

Report of the Pan-Hellenic Council.

Report of the Regional Conventions.

Panel Discussion: Theme: "Undergraduate Problems,'' Brother Walter Scott, Leader.

6:00 P. M.—9:00 P. M.—Open.

9:00 P. M.—12:00 M.—Smoker.

Theme: "The Negro and Equality of Opportunity".

Discussants: Brother Dr. Charles L. Franklin, Chairman; Brother Charles H. Houston, Brother Sydney Redmond, Brother Carson D. Baker, Brother Thurgood Marshall, Brother Belford Lawson, Brother Sydney Williams and Brother Ewart Guinier.

Midnight—Cabaret Party.

Wednesday, August 30, 1939 9:00 A. M.—12:00 Noon—Committee Meetings.

1:00 P. M.—6:00 P. M.—Business Session.

1.—Call to Order.

Fraternity Prayer.

Fraternity Hymn.

Roll Call.

Reading of Minutes.

Report of the Committee on Standards.

Report of the Committee on Extension.

Report of the Committee on Delinquent and Unrepresented Chapters.

Report of the Committee on Suspensions.

Report of the Committee on Chapter Constitutions.

Report of the Committee on Appeals and Grievances.

Report of the Ritual and Initiation Committee.

Report of the Committee on the Constitution of the General Organization.

Pago 6

THE

S P H I N X

August, 1939

SEVEN-ACRE COURT OF PEACE, N. Y. WORLD'S FAIR

Model of a section of the New York World's Fair Grounds, showing the seven-acre Court of Peace. The Court of Peace lies beyond the Lagoon of Nations and directly in front of the twin-towered Federal Building.

On the other side are the Halls of Nations and beyond them the individual pavilions of foreign governments. The view is from above the Perisphere looking down Constitution Mall.

6:00 P. M.—10:00 P. M.—Open.

10:00 P. M.—Alpha Phi Alpha Formal. Savory Ballroom.

Thursday, August 31, 1939 9:00 A. M.—10:00 A. M.—Committee Meetings.

10:00 A. M.—1:00 P. M.—Business Session.

Call to Order.

Fraternity Prayer.

Fraternity Hymn.

Roll Call.

Reading of Minutes.

Report of Committee on Distinguished Achievement Award.

Report of Auditing Committee.

Report of Convention Accountant.

Report of Committee on Pins and Badges.

Report of Budget Committee.

Adjournment.

1:00 P. M.—2:00 P. M.—Recess.

2:00 P. M.—6:00 P. M.—Call to Order.

Fraternity Prayer.

Report of Recommendations Committee.

Report of the Committee on Place.

Report of the Committee on Resolutions.

Election of Officers.

10:00 P. M.—Midnight-Convention Banquet—Y. W. C. A. Toastmaster, Brother Elmer A. Carter, Member of New York State Employment Insurance Appeal Board.

Pep Songs.

Fraternity Prayer.

Music.

Report of the Committee on Cup Awards.

Installation of Officers by Jewel Brother Kelley.

Banquet Address, Brother Clarence M. Maloney,

Assistant Attorney-General, New York State Department of Social Welfare.

Period of Inspiration and Song.

Fraternity Hymn.

"God be with You Till We Meet Again."

SPECIAL CONVENTION NOTES HOUSING—Adequate housing will be available, rooms from $1.50 up, per night. (Rooms at $1.25 would have been available had the Brothers heeded our announcement of many weeks ago and sent in reservations before the dead line).

CLOTHING FOR FORMAL AFFAIRS — The type of formal wear for the formal affairs is left optional with the Brothers. They can wear either tuxedos or the various types of summer formal apparel.

However, in all such cases FORMAL APPAREL must be worn. NO WHITE LINEN SUITS are considered as formal attire.

OTHER CLOTHING—Late August is likely to be moderately warm in New York City, making it unnecessary for Brothers from distant points to bring with them heavy suits or top coats. It is suggested, however, that at least one year-round sui't be brought along.

EXTRA LADY FRIENDS—The Women's Auxiliary of the Convention Committee plans to provide, as far as possible, lady friends for the visiting brothers. In addition, the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority is holding its Convention during the same time as Alpha Phi Alpha. Very likely, the extra lady friends will be plentiful.

August, 1939

THE

Pioneering

Page 7

SPHINX

a

New

Field

METAL ARTS CO. EMPLOYS EIGHT NEGRO SALESMEN T TNTIL recently the existence of a vast commercial market predominantly Negroid in its racial aspect had not been recognized by white business institutions.

Negroes themselves were not altogether cognizant of the strength they represented in terms o f dollars a n d cents.

Here in America were more than 12,000,000 people, whose lives, while inextricably woven with the general business conditions of the country, were separate a n d apart because of the peculiar practice o f racial segregation. As a result of this practice these people have developed methods of self-sufficiency . . . creating a distinctive commercial field within the general industrial life of the nation.

The growing comBRO. AARON L. ALLEN mercial-mindedness of Director Colored Sales Force the Negro is beginning to manifest itself in many respects; especially during this period of economic trials.

Young men and women in college are making studies of

correct business procedures. Today they are beginning to learn methods by which doors of work opportunities here-to-fore closed to them are opened. A fine example of this fact is the story behind the employment of a Negro sales force by Metal Arts Company, Rochester, New York, manufacturer of jewelries.

Nearly four years ago, Brother Aaron L. Allen, while a student at Fisk University, Nashville, Tennessee, made a study of companies engaged in the manufacture and sale of class rings, pins, keys, i ' n v i t a tions, souvenirs, etc. to Negro schools and Greek letter Societies. At that time not a single one of these companies employed Negroes in the capacity of salesman, altho doing i™---_ „ BR0 a large business with - L0NNIE BRISCO Texas these institutions and Representative organizations. Brother Allen, in his study, revealed that from $15,000 to $30,000 in sales were being" made to Continued On Page 38

Members of Metal Arts Sales Force. Left to right, they are:—W. J. Yarbrough, A. B. Fisk, Omega Psi Phi; A. S. Spain, A. B. Fisk, M. A. Michigan, Alpha Phi Alpha; C. L. B!ackwell, Hampton Institute. Top, center:—R. C. Browder, A. B., Fisk, Kappa Alpha Psi. Absent from picture is Salesman Harold Johnston, A. B., Knoxvjlle College. Former salesmen of the company are J. A. Walker, Elmer Kelley, and T. C. Ne3dham, the latter deceased.

Page 8

THE

SPHINX

New York—Greatest

of

August, 1939

Hosts

By JOHN A. MORSELL A S the time approaches for the sounding of the opening gavel in the greatest of Alpha Phi Alpha conventions, it is not amiss to devote a little of the space allotted to the host chapters in this Convention issue of the Sphinx to a few words about the metropolis in which the convention will take place.

Fifteen years have passed since New York City last welcomed the visiting Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha. Tn many respects, they have been fifteen of the most significant years, not only in our country's history but in the growth of our Fraternity and in our personal lives. And, keeping well abreast of the changing times has been that Colossus of Cities, that New World Babylon, that incredibly magnified edition of Main Street, Little Old New York.

Other cities have their civic boosters, their publicity agents, and their advertising campaigns, designed to keep all and sundry informed of their manifold advantages of scenic beauty and economic promise. And no conscientious lover of New York would seek to belittle the accuracy of their claims. But New York has no organized system for advertising itself, nor does it need one. Its attractions are celebrated in song and story, in newspaper headlines and on cinema screens, on the airwaves and in the daily conversation of men in the street throughout the length and breadth of the land.

No press agent, in his wildest fancies, could hope to attain the publicity value of New York's dynamic and peripatetic Little Flower, Mayor LaGuardia; of racket-buster Tom Dewey's round face and thick mustache; of Grover Whalen's eternal gardenia, blooming happily on Flushing Meadows. These, and a hundred others like them, are earning their columns of space by doing a good job of main-

taining New York in its accustomed pre-eminence.

Smiling, and with its face newly lifted by the W. P. A., Grant's Tomb crowns the crest of Riverside Drive, still yielding nothing to the famed Riverside Church across the street. Liberty's torch still fiies aloft in the bay, at once beckoning to newcomers from across the sea, and calling the watchword of freedom to those ashore.

Coney Island, not at all dismayed by its new competitor on Whalenland; the Empire State Building, crowned with a gleaming rep'.ica of Al Smith's derby; the Hayden Planetarium, where the world comes to an end on schedule, four times daily; Fifth Avenue, where ninety per cent of the shopping is of the window variety; the Aquarium, where 10,000 telephone calls for "Mr. Fish" are received on April Fools Day; Central Park; the George Washington Bridge; the Triborough Bridge; the Holland Tubes; the subway; the Bronz Zoological Gardens; these and the other thousands have lost none of their appeal, and will be awaiting your inspection or re-inspection in August.

Even the ghost of the Sixth Avenue "El", it is re'.iably reported, given vent to a supernatural clatter at midnight when the moon is full.

Finally, your correspondent is not being facetious when he suggests that these multifarious attractions of the metropolis will be as fresh sourc?s of interest for many of the natives as they will be for the visiters. For it is axiomatic that New Yorkers often live their lives out without having "seen the sights," unless they are prodded into so doing by their out-of-town friends. It is, therefore, in the exp3ctation that our education, as well as yours, will profit, that we in New York call upon you to make this the biggest, as well as the best, convention in Alpha Phi Alpha history.

HARLEM Play time is gay time for children in New Orleans or New York. This group is pictured playing on the streets of Harlem.

Photo by Brother Whibby, H.

Y.

Page 9 is missing

Page 10 is missing

August, 1939

THE

SPHINX

*

*

GREETINGS TOP ROW Left to right:—Vice-President Sidney A. Jones, Sphinx Editor Lewis O. Swingler, and Director of Education Dr. Rayford W. Logan.

BOTTOM ROW—Left to right:—Councilmen C. M. Roulhac, Jr., Ferdinand L. Rousseve and Walter S. Scott, Jr.

*

*

Page 11

Page 12

THE

SPHINX

August, 1939

G r e e t i n gf s Greetings—Jewel

H. A. Callis

glorious days of years gone by.

Don't fail me. I'll be looking for you. Don't forget the d a t e s . . .August 28-31st. The great New York World's Fair will be opened for your further enlightenment. Why not kill two birds with one stone by planning right now to attend the Fraternity Convention and afterward take in the fair and see world progress at present and in the future.

Fraternally yours, NATHANIEL A. MURRAY, Jewel.

•

Greetings—1st

0

Greetings—Jewel

George

Kelley

Last November, with friends, I visited Ithaca to witness the Cornell-Darmouth annual football game. I travelled again the paths of the campus and the surroundings where Alpha Phi Alpha had its inception. I watched the great throng assemble to view the thrilling contest of brawn and brain between two teams of machine-like men.

I watched particularly the work of that tall, dark man on the Cornell team. . . one who had won the plaudits and praise of all gathered there. Then I compared this gathering with those that the Alpha Pounders had witnessed when they were students at Cornell.

Then we gathered on a small athletic field where we were often compelled to stand because of financial condition. As this gathering has increased in numbers from year to year, so has Alpha Phi Alpha.

We shall soon gather in large numbers in New York City to give to the outside world a vision of cur progress and to ourselves the pleasures of renewing old comradeships and reminisce the incidents of days gone by. Let us forget, when we assemble, all petty and personal ambitions and desires and think only of Alpha Phi Alpha. Let us demonstrate the brotherhood for which we stand and show our gladness because we are a part of the Fraternity, founded by seven humble studenrs at Cornell in 1906.

In our meetings, let us be tolerant with each other.

Let us elect to office the men who will advance the ia.4 terest of the Fraternity instead of considering the personal benefits to be derived from same. Let us select candidates because of their qualifications and then select the brothers best suited for leadership.

GEORGE B. KELLEY, . o '

Greetings—Jewel

N. A. Murray

• y H E New York Convention of the great Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity will soon be in season, the exact date bsing August 28 to 31 inclusive. Every loyal and right thinking graduate and undergraduate brother will want to be there. Why not start to prepare now?

Your Jewel and Founder will be there to enjoy and live again the feelings he experienced when he with six others first organized the Alpha chapter of the Fraternity. '*»• Your Jewel and Founder wants you, the readers of this message, to be in New York August 28, and greet him and live over and over again the grand, great and

o

Vice-President

DROTHERS In Alpha Phi Alpha—Greetings: The occasion of our assemblage here is unique. It was here in New York State that our dear Alpha Phi Alpha was born. It was in New York City in 1924, when Alpha Phi Alpha, in the 17th General Convention assembled, elected me to the office of Vice-President. I have thought it a happy privilege to serve the brothers in Alpha Phi Alpha, for the many years and have labored with serious and unselfish zeal to further the ideals of the fraternity. The basic ideals of the fraternity remain the same, while the advancement, since 1906, has been glorious and the ideals have been greatly magnified through exemplary lives of the brothers.

As we, once again, arrive the sacred dates to account for the past achievements, and legislate for the future of Alpha Phi Alpha, may we not drift into ideal boasting of our greatness, but let us, as brothers, search our hearts for any disloyalty that might prove disastrous to our fraternal ideals.

I am sure that the future progress of Alpha Phi Alpha is the sincere thought permeating the mind of each brother at this convention and also the brothers who are unable to attend.

Our dear Alpha Phi Alpha "Tomorrow" calls for sacrificial and thoughtful planning by you and me. May we also, in pledging again, our allegiance by our presence, at this convention, enjoy the wonderful privileges arranged for our pleasure and the opportunities to fraternize, which is so signal to Alpha Phi Alpha.

Please allow me to thank you for your unstinted cooperation during my term of office and hope for you success in all efforts to transcend.

Sincerely and Fraternally, CHAS. W. GREENE, First Vice-President. o

Greetings—2nd

Vice-President

BROTHERS: It is with sincere pleasure that I greet all of my Alpha Brothers of New York City, as well as visitingbrothers from elsewhere, to our General Convention.

We expect to participate freely and enthusiastically in all of the splendid social activities arranged by our hosts, but in addition thereto, and primarily, the present and future program of our beloved fraternity. Every General Officer and Brother desires to see our fraternity advance and progress, and continue as a leader in its

THE

August, 1939

field, although there may be some difference of opinion as to what should be done, and how it should be done.

It is my fond hope that during the days of the New York Convention we will discuss freely our problems, and make decisions that will be of enduring value to Alpha Phi Alpha.

Fraternally, SIDNEY A. JONES, JR.

Greetings—3rd

Vice-President

T"\EAR Brothers: It is sincerely hoped that by this time every Alpha Phi Alpha man far and near is busily engaged in getting down and dusting off his travelling bags or is pre-occupied in consulting time tables or road maps. In other words, it is the hope that hundreds of Alpha men have decided and are about to put into action their plans to attend the Alpha Phi Alpha convention in New York City from August 28th to 31st, inclusive.

The Administration and entertaining chapters of New York City have about consummated their plans to give you the most constructive and most enjoyable convention in the entire history of Alpha Phi Alpha; so please plan to be on hand so as to enjoy yourself and make your contribution to the "Alpha Phi Alpha of tomorrow". Eta and Alpha Gamma Lambda Chapters most cordially and imploringly invite you to be present. All chapters of the East have pledged themselves to have large delegations present to welcome their Brothers to the first Eastern convention for many years. So, we are expecting you.

If you have not notified the Convention Committee Secretary of your intention to be present or have not made your reservation with the Chairman of the Housing Committee, please do so at once. This will facilitate the operations of the committees and will assure you of obtaining comfortable accommodations at reasonable costs. So long until August 28th.

Fraternally, FARROW R. ALLEN.

Greetings—4th

Vice-President

Dear Brothers: May that great spirit of fraternali'sm which has perpetuated our glorious Brotherhood span the miles between us and convey to our convention the heartiest wishes from us, of the Golden West, for a happy, constructive reunion which will further develop the highest ideals of Alpha Phi Alpha.

Bert McDonald, Western Vice-President.

PRESERVE YOUR COPIES OF THE SPHINX Keep Them In Bound Volumes-Expert Workmanship

TRI-STATE RULING & BINDING COMPANY 271 UNION

MEMPHIS, TENN.

Page 13

SPHINX

CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANT Brother R. B. J. Campbelle, for 16 years business manager of A. & I. State College and now holder of the chair of Accountacy and Commercial Law at the Institution, has just been issued a certificate as Certified Public Accountant after a hectic fight in the courts of Tennessee.

Race Citizens are rejoicing toda^y in the victory which it is said makes Brother Campbelle the first Race man to become a Certified »«<>. R. B. J. CAMPBELLE Public Accountant in Tennessee. He met all legal require. ments and was granted the certificate Friday, March 18, by the Board of Accountancy.

Upon being refused the certificate at first he filed suit for a writ of Mandamus, which was denied by Chancellor Jas. B. Newman on demurrer of the Board. He appealed to the Tennessee Supreme Court. Here the Chancellor was reversed and the writ was ordered issued by that august body. It is said that his signal triumph opens the way generally for other Certified Public Accountants to be licensed in the South.

Brother Campbelle is a graduate of A. & I. State College, has studied at Howard University and during the World War was a Sergeant-Major in the 365th Pioneer Infantry. He is a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity—Charter member of Tau Lambda Chapter in Nashville, Tennessee and is a thirty-second degree Mason.

He resides at 3109 Centennial Boulevard with his wife, Mrs. Margaret R. Campbelle, Jeanes Supervisor of Dickson County, and his two children, Roy Jr., and Margaret, students in Pearl High School of that city.

CHAPTER ROSTER The Chapter Roster, including the Directory of General Officers, is replaced in this edition of the Sphinx wi'th display copy of advertisers. Publication of the Roster will be resumed with the CONVENTION NUMBER.

'ECONOMIC LIFE OF THE NEGRO' Preponderance of copy in connection with the General Convention makes it necessary to hold over the second installment of the "Economic Life Of The Negro", by Dr. Milton S. J. Wright, until the publication of the Convention Edition.

THE

Page 14

Greetings—General

Secretary

rro

MY Brothers in Alpha Phi Alpha: The approaching Convention to be held in New York City certainly is planned as one which will give old brothers and new brothers an excellent opportunity to catch the spirit of Alpha Phi Alpha and to know the men from all parts of the country who have helped to make this the greatest Negro college fraternity in existence.

All of my recent correspondence has contained a note urging you to come and join with the brothers in four days of genuine fellowship coupled with some hard work.

I have met on several occasions with New York brothers who are assisting in the plans for the Convention and I am impressed by the fact that the program will provide opportunity for brothers to know one another better and to learn from each other some of the things which have been done to make the work of local chapters outstanding contributions to the community life.

There are 1,803 financial brothers at the time of this writing, and I am quite sure that we shall pass the 2,000 mark by the time of the Convention.

Sincerely and fraternally yours, JOSEPH H. B. EVANS, General Secretary. o

Greetings—Director

of Education

T-'O ALL Brothers: The coming convention has a special significance for me because it was at the New York Convention of 1924 that I renewed, after six years in Europe, my affiliation with Alpha Phi Alpha. The fifteen years that have elapsed since then have convinced me that membership in Alpha Phi Alpha is a sound investment in congenial fellowship and the acquisition of expert knowledge of our racial problems. Join us then in New York and bring your contribution to this congeniality and this study of our problems in the World of Tomorrow. In the meanwhile I extend to Brothers throughout the nation my warmest thanks for their unfailing courtesy, hospitality and cooperation.

Fraternally, RAYFORD W. LOGAN. o

Greetings—Councilman

Roulhac

HTO THE Brothers in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity: Dear brothers, 1939 has given us many new inventions, opportunities and prospects. This year we have two World Fairs, one in the West and one in the East.

Alpha has made it possible for us to see one of these Fairs. Not only do we have an opportunity of seeing a great fair, but we also have an opportunity of being one who witness the greatest convention in the history of Alpha. Here is a chance to see many old friends and brothers. Brothers whom we brought across the "burning sands", brothers who brought many of us across and most of all brothers whom we haven't seen for many a year. Here is a chance to convene and see the progress of Alpha through the many years.

So, brothers, don't forget this is the day and age of progress and together we will make history. Let's meet at City College on August 28 and have a convention that will not only make history, but will show the true Alpha spirit. I'll be there. Will I see you there? Here's hoping.

C. M. ROULHAC, JR.

August, 1939

SPHINX

Greetings—General

Counsel Berry

DROTHERS of Alpha Phi Alpha—Greetings: The 1939 convention of Alpha Phi Alpha, because of precedents already established and the local setting of this meeting, promises to be the greatest in our history. We have much to challenge the verities of our motto, ideals and purposes. New problems, social and fraternal, will test our resources and objectives.

Of course New York with all the metropolis has to offer extends a gracious and generous invitation and welcome. But the future progress of our fraternity is a call to all brothers to unite at this convention to re-affirm our faith and loyalty to the cause and help in formulating the plans that will shape our fraternal and social destiny.

Let us see the light anew at New York August 28th to August 31st.

Fraternally yours, THEODORE M. BERRY General Counsel. .—-o

Greetings—Councilman

W. S. Scott

Greetings From Brother Walter S. Scott, Jr. Greetings to the Delegates and visiting Brothers to the 27th General Convention of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. This Convention, held in the shadows of the N. Y. World's Fair, "The World Of Tomorrow," should presage a new era in Fraternalism that of greater national Undergradute participation. During our deliberations let us all—Undergraduate and Graduate—put aside our individual and group interests, and let our prime consideration be the future of our great Fraternity. Then we shall have truly prepared the way for Alpha Phi Alpha in the World Of Tomorrow.

Walter S. Scott, Jr., Lay Councilman. o

Greetings—General

Treasurer

The New York Convention to some of us brings reflections of 1924 when we last met in New York. What does 1939 hold in store for us? I am as anxious to attend this Convention as if it were my first. The thrills and expectations of going to the metropoli's of America, I hope, will attract many hundreds of Alphas from every chapter wherever one might be located to accept the gracious invitation extended by our best chapters.

I shall be pleased to meet you in New York on August 28 next.

Fraternally yours, Percival R. Piper. o

Words of

Appreciation

T~\EAR Brother Evans: I am deeply appreciative of the action taken at the Midwestern Regional Convention of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity in regard to my illness. I received the telegram and wish to convey my thanks to the group for the thought which prompted the action by the body. I am glad to say that I am improving and feel that in a few months I shall again be strong enough to resume my usual activities.

Sincerely yours,

EUGENE KINCKLE JONES.

August, 1939

THE

Page 15

SPHINX

GREETINGS FROM SPHINX STAFF MEMBERS

WMHHi

Sphinx staff members. Left to right, top row, they a r e : - J e w e l George Kelley, Brothers S. M. Smith, J E.Cotton, William H Gray, Jr., James B. Browning; second r o w : - B r o t h e r s 0. Wilson Winters, and Milton S. J. Wright; Third r o w : ^ Brothers Clyde L. Cole, and Charles L. Franklin, Jr.; bottom r o w : - B r o t h e r s Grant W. Hawkins, H C. Latham, Sr., Lewis 0 Swingler and Hugh M. Gloster. Brothers John L. Brinkley, Jr., and James D. Parks are absent from the picture.

Centered is Omega Award presented to Sphinx Editor Swingler by Epsilon Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity for meritorious work in the field of journalism.

Page 16

THE

SPHINX

August, 1939

OFFICES OF ATTORNEY JOHN DAVIS, ST. LOUIS, MO.

Outstanding Attorney In St. Louis

Brother John Davis, one of the Race's outstanding young attorneys, is herewith presented along with three views of his well appointed offices. Top section, left end, associate's private office, right, private office, bottom, reception room. Brother Davis is president of the St. Louis, Branch, N. A. A. C. P. and a member of Epsilon Lambda Chapter.

THE CHOICE AND PLACEMENT

FACTOR IN THE JOB

MARKET

By ROBBIE TURNER DAVIS What line of occupation shall I follow and where can I get a job are two paramount questions in the minds of every American youth today. The 'what can we do about it' angle is the challenge to every adult leader.

Fraternities and sororities were among the first to take up this challenge. For many years there have been concerted efforts on the part of both to guide youth both educationally and vocationally. However, with the unusual supply of job seekers we are realizing that the job market is a business and more will have to be done about it than a week of effort to direct a youth into the occupation that he seems best fitted for with practically no market for the finished product. In the following article we will attempt to tell you about what the COLLEGIATE PERSONNEL CENTER is doing as its solution to the challenge.

The COLLEGIATE PERSONNEL CENTER is an organization made up of persons interested in the welfare of

the Negro youth of the country who are graduated from our colleges each year. It is the outgrowth of an ever increasing need for a central organization to' serve as a clearing house for the employer in search of efficient personnel and the employee in need of a job. j In order to do the most effective work in gathering together all persons interested in this effort the Guidance Guild was formed. The Guidance Guild is a subsidiary of the COLLEGIATE PERSONNEL CENTER and has as its aim the collection and compilation of information concerning the Negro college graduates of the country. The Guild is divided into Junior and Senior members. Junior members or seniors, graduate students and others seeking initial vocational placement or desiring a change or advancement in their position. Senior members are those persons who have successfully completed a college degree Continued On Page 18

August, 1939

THE

Page 17

SPHINX

By James B. Browning History Editor

THE COLLAPSE OF COTTON TENANCY, SUMMARY OF FIELD STUDIES AND STATISTICAL SURVEYS 1933-1935

By Charles S. Johnson, Edwin R. Embree and W. W. Alexander (Chapel Hill: The University of North Carolina Press, 1935, Price $1.00)

groups are naturally criminal and who wish to support their statements with the findings and interpretations of a specialist in the field of criminology.

AFRICAN HEROES AND HEROINES

By Carter G. Woodson (Washington, D. C : The Associated Publishers, Inc., 1939.

Brothers believe it or not, it has taken me four years to get around to this provacative study in which one of our outstanding brothers had a big hand, and several lesser brothers played parts in the supporting cast.

All of this goes to show what can happen if you do not stay on your toes in this business of keeping up with "the Jones" in the field of research.

Periodically, some distinguished contributor to a prominent periodical tells us in vivid language that the sharecropper is but a figment of the imagination of the "uplift" boys whose main concern is finding out what progress the Negro has made so as to be sure that his future advances will be "nipped in the bud."

These authors show quite clearly that there is little hope for the tenant farmer, that the credit merchants are notoriously unfair, and that the New Deal was a big help to the planters and merchants, but the poor sharecropper, white and black, were left holding the proverbial bag.

In only one instance does your reviewer disagree with the powerful triumvirate which produced this work, and that is where they imply (P. ) the Negro before 1865 was unable to do any other than the routine labor of the southern plantation or its equivalent.

Brothers if your children seem to be ashamed of their African heritage, and if you as an undergraduate brother, find it embarrassing to have yourself associated with Africans, then read this book and learn of the notable achievements of the African Negroes in many activities, and of how Africans lost to whites, but not without honor.

Brothers, if for any reasons you have been inclined to be ashamed of your African blood, then read this book and thank God that you are of common ancestry with the Negroes of South Africa who have produced such great personages as— . o INVISIBLE EMPIRE, THE STORY OF THE KU KLUX RLAN 1871

By Stanley F. Horn, (Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company, 1939, Pp. VIII 434.

CRIME AND SOCIETY, AN INTRODUCTION TO CRIMINOLOGY By-Nathaniel F. Cantor. (New York: Henry Holt and Company, 1939, PP439.

From the view-point of the non-specialist in the field, the book presents many fascinating details such as many prisons do not have enough work to keep the prisoners busy (p- 137), a private citizen may arrest a criminal (p. 67), the economic, rather than the racial, or other interpretations of history is the most valid in the field of criminology (p. 67).

This book should be read by all brothers who want to know how to combat the argument that certain racial

Brothers, here is a striking example of how a man can use interesting material and make it dull reading, of how a student of history can violate some of the elementary methods of organization and how one can cling tenaciously to outworn ideas which one should abandon. Thank God that you are living today and not yesterday. Suffice it to say that this author actually thinks that the Ku Klux Klan was trying to do good in frightening the living daylights out of Negroes whose only crime was being black. o .

THE SHADOW OF THE PLANTATION

By Charles S. Johnson (Chicago: The University Chicago Press, 1934, PP214.

of

Almost six years have passed since this book was published. If you haven't read it, it might interest you to see what two Critics had to say about the work.

The New York Times reported that, "—that book was done with accuracy and thoroughness", and the Saturday Review of Literature said that "—Every page of his text is enlivened and made convincing by long quotations from the mouths of his Macon County, Alabama, folk."

Page 18

THE

ALPHA'S POET

August,

OUR MARION SANG

Author of this beautiful poem, "Our Marion Sang" and "Awakened" another piece of poetry published in the February Number, 1939, has done considerable writing in verse and some of his compositions have appeared o n t h e pages of leading publications of the race. His outstanding recent publication is his book of poems, "Negro Voices," an anthology of contemporary verse published by Henry Harrison, Poetry Publishers of New York.

Brother Ragland is also * ^crit\on specialistchemist, and is professionally engaged as such in Lawrenceville, Virginia.

J. FARLEY RAGLAND

The Choice And Placement In The Job Market

SPHINX

Factor

Continued From Page 16 and who are now pursuing some vocation or other successful Negroes who have manifested an interest in the guidance of Negro youth and who desire to assist them in the choice of a vocation by advice or example.

The following are among the persons who through membership, correspondence, or personal interviews have given their stamp of approval to COLLEGIATE PERSONNEL CENTER and the Guidance Guild; Bernard E. Squires, Executive secretary of t h e Omaha Urban League; Eva Estelle Thomas, Assistant Dean of Women, Hampton Institute, Hampton, Va.; J. Harvey Kerns, Director, Department of Negro Welfare, Community Chest, Cincinnati, Ohio; Dr. George B. Lennox, President Negro Chamber of Commerce, Omaha, Nebraska; Lewis 0.

Swingler, Editor of Sphinx Magazine and of the Memphis World, Memphis, Tenn.; Elmore Williams, Manager, the Peoples Finance Company, Kansas City, Mo.; Annie Elese Moore, Director of Music, Douglass Junior High School, Oklahoma City, Okla.; Dr. Joseph E. Dibble, Board of Directors, the Urban League of Kansas City, Mo.; Dr. Royall B. Fleming, Night Superintendent, General Hospital No. 2, Kansas City, Mo.; Forest S. Smith, Executive Secretary, Y. M. C. A., Kansas City, Mo.; Professor John A. Hodges, Principal Sumner High School, Kansas City, Kansas; The R. T. Coles, Vocational School, Earl Thomas, principal, Kansas City, Mo.; Dr. Malaku Bayen, Editor, The Voice of Ethiopia, New York City; Bishop John A. Gregg, 5th Episcopal District, of the African Methodist Church; Dr. Wesley E. Jones, President, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Omaha, Nebraska; Dr. S. D. Scruggs, President Lincoln "University, Jefferson City, Mo.; James L. McLemore, President, Board of Curators, Lincoln University, Jefferson City, Mo.; Dr. Ruth Harris, Principal Stowe Teachers College, St. Louis, Mo.; Francis E. Williams, Principal Vashon

The eventide of Easter day— Gamboling shadows leap and play; 'Neath Resurrection's cloudless dome A thousand eager footsteps roam.

As twilight zephyrs softly sigh A throng of throbbing hearts draw nigh.

Emancipation's rugged shrine— The prophet of a Cause divine; Beneath a proud Crusader's hand The World beheld a Black man's stand— From out of rising Africa's breast A queenly Broivn Girl's lyrics blest; A "voice of centuries" in test Transcendant 'mongst a Nation's best.

The gates of justice opened wide— Dark prejudicial ei'ils died; The vibrant bells of freedom rang When our ebon goddess sang.

A happy, glad, enraptured throng; A people's message raised in song;— "Let freedom ring from shore to shore, And justice be for ever more."

Fond genius in her chosen span Sees not the face of mortal man, True virtue does its blessing lift In worthy heart it leaves its gift.

By J. Farley Ragland

WHEN YOU'VE DONE YOUR BEST

By L I N W O O D D . GRAVES There is no need to cry when you've done your best, For the best is all you can do, And the person that frowns when you've done your best Is less than the least you do.

It's foolish to hide when you've done your best For the best is a noble deed, And if any man scorns you then He's lower than the mountain weed.

There's no need to wonder when you've done your best, About what the world might say, For the best is all the tvorld can know.

So what higher debt can you pay?

There's but one thing to do, when you've done your best, For the best is all God wants of Thee; So smile my friends when the best is done, For your reward is surely to be.

High School, St. Louis, Mo.; Elsie Mountain, Executive Secretary, Y. W. C. A. of Kansas City, Mo.; H. T. Kieling, Industrial Secretary, Urban League, Kansas City, Mo.; Margaret Bicknell, Director of Guidance, LeMoyne College, Memphis, Tenn.; Ellsworth J. Evans, Principal, Wayman Crown School, St. Louis, Mo.; George Ragland, Supervisor, Universal Life Insurance Co., Oklahoma City, Okla.; Mu Omega Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority; Upsilon Chapter, Iota Phi Lambda Sorority; the Omaha branch of the National Association of College Women and hosts of others.

THE

August, 1939

Page 19

SPHINX

National Alpha Phi Alpha Hymn Mus!C A r r a n g e d by J O H N J. ERBY— 24 XI Chapter, W i l b e r f o r c e , Ohio.

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Page 22

THESPHIN X

Expands H e a l t h BROTHERS HOLD UNIQUE POSITIONS DIRECT "FREE CLINICS ON WHEELS"

By WILLIAM H. GRAY, JR., Contributing Editor B R O T H E R S of Alpha Phi Alpha have occupied unusual positions in t h e launching of Louisiana's inovated program of socialized medicine established under the administration of the recently resigned Governor Richard W. Leche.

Governor Leche, whose retirement from the governor's seat was closely followed by a political storm in the Bayou state, and successor to the Huey P. Long machine, pointed with pride to the effective free dental system inaugurated under his administration on the eve of his much heralded resignation.

Many informants in Louisiana's inner circles readily admit that the vast extension of this much publicized dental program has been perpetrated through the tireless efforts of Brother Dr. Andrew E. McDonald. Brother Dr. McDonald, supervisor of Colored Dental Clinics, has been ably assisted by Brother Dr. Andrew J. Young, one of Louisiana's most capable Negro dentists. These men have been responsible for administering to the countless needs arising among the State's 776,000 Negro population. The general economic destitution of large numbers of the Negro group of the section, harassed by the disparaties of share-cropping and payless vocations, have qualified many for this service. The task of administering relief clients in the more populous areas of the State has been a tremendous one. Because of the naturally limited facilities provided in comparison with the apparent needs, Brother Dr. McDonald and his colleagues have been faced with a great problem in mapping out itineraries along which the elaborate trailer-clinics might proceed in order to reach effectively the great masses of Negroes in rural communities. These dental surgeons, motivated by the traditional spirit of transcending racial and social barriers and mores have expanded greatly this worthy program among the race, and merited themselves high commendation from State and local health officials of the commonwealth.

Each dentist is accompanied on his hazardous mission of mercy by a dental hygenist as clinic assistant. Brother Marcus Neustadter, Jr., an honor graduate of Dillard University and a charter member of Beta Phi chapter at that institution was the first to be appointed in this capacity. He serves as Dental Hygenist for Brother Dr. Young. Dr. Malcolm McDonald, brother of the supervisor, is dental assistant on the Number One trailer in the set-up.

Dr. J. B. Thompson, was recently named to the colored staff in a move to expand the program even farther. It is believed that this increase in staff was brought about through revelations made by Brother Dr. McDonald, that greater facilities were needed to meet the increased demands being exacted on the Negro division of the Dental Health Service. In addition to the complete dental service

August, 1939

Program

rendered gratis to both state and national relief clients and farm security home owners, the division is frequently called upon to give demonstrations and educational lectures both within and without the State.

Dr. McDonald and Dr. Young, are both ably fitted for the work they are doing. Dr. McDonald has long established himself as a versatile scholar and successful practitioner. Born in New Orleans, he was educated in the public schools of the Crescent City and Oakland, California. He graduated from Xavier University and then entered Marquette University's College of Dentistry, where he graduated in 1923. Brother McDonald practiced in Chicago and Milwaukee before establishing i n New Orleans, where he practiced until his appointment a s the first colored member of the Louisiana State Hospital Board's staff in 1937.

Prior to this appointment Brother McDonald won prominence as a scholar, counsellor and writer. He spent one year abroad studying at the Liverpool Dental Hospital in England and the Bordeaux School of Dental Medicine in France. He later founded a Vocational Advisory Studio in New Orleans, which received wide acclaim. In connection with this work, he wrote numerous monographs on careers. He is also author of White Heat, and New Lease on Life, treatises on vocational counselling; and he is a former editor and publisher of "The Dental Champion." Aside from being an active member of Sigma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha, he is affiliated with numerous organizations. He is a member of the Knights of St. Peter Claver, the New Orleans Dental Association, and was formerly a member of the staff of the FlintGoodridge Hospital.

Brother Dr. Young has likewise enjoyed a remarkable career. He attended the elementary schools of New Orleans. He graduated from Howard University's Dental School in 1920. He began practice in his home city of New Orleans in 1922 and had established an excellent practice prior to his appointment to the State Dental Clinic. o

ALPHAS IN NEW YORK (To the tune of "The Side Walks of New York"

Hail boys! Hail to dear old New York town!

Alpha men from North and South And Miles and miles aroun'.

Young and old together; Happy, jolly and gay, Hail to dear old New York; Hail to dear old A. Phi A! Hail boys! Hail our great Convention town!

Queen of hospitality, She surely wears the crown.

Hail our dear host chapters, Stalwart men and true.

A Phi A, it thousand strong, Gives its salute to you.

MSJW, Chi Lambda.

August, 1939

THE

SPHINX

Poge 23

LOUISIANA'S HEALTH PROGRAM INCLUDES THESE CLINICS

""THESE Free Dental Clinics on wheels have raised the health standard of the 776,000 Neg'ro people of Louisiana and are a part of the Public Health Service initiated in the Bayou State by former Governor Richard W. Leche. And the success with which this program has proceeded is due in large measure to tireless efforts of the dental surgeons shown in the above picture. Top section presents Brothers Newstadter, and A. J. Young. In the lower section is seen Brother Dr. Andrew McDonald, left, with Dr. Malcolm McDonald. (Ar.icle on next page.)

PRAISED FOR WORK HTHE establishment of a graduate chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha in Baton Rouge on the 25th of February presented a fitting opportunity for brothers of the Bayou State to pay tribute to Brother Dr. B. V. Baranco.

The official sanction for this chapter was a climax to years of tireless effort and work on the part of Brother Baranco to effect such an organization for his community.

Brother Baranco is one of Baton Rouge's most useful citizens. He is one of the South's leading dentists and possesses an unusually largte clientele. He is a member of BRO. DR. B. V. BARANCO the Board of Directors of one of Louisiana's most sue-

cessful insurance companies and is a motivating factor in the religious and social life of the city. Brother Baranco is recipient of a natural inclination for leadership.

His father, B. V. Baranco, Sr., was a ranking leader in the fraternal, social and political life of the Pelican State.

Dr. Baranco graduated from Meharry, where he first saw the light of Alpha Phi Alpha.

The Brothers of Alpha Iota Lambda, the newly formed unit of Alpha, were unhesitant in acclaiming the work and ability of Brother Baranco and his unanimous election to the presidency to head the ambitious program outlined by the neophyte chapter is indicative of their tribute of confidence to this stalwart brother. o The average speed of express subway trains in New York city is 25 miles per hour and for local subway trains 15 miles per hour, both including station stops.

There are 8,408,129 telephone calls a day throughout New York city.

Reprove thy friend privately; commend him publicly. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Solon.

THE

Page 24

FISK'S NOTED ATHLETE

SPHINX

August, 1939

ALPHA CHI'S PRESIDENT

BROTHER WALTER N. BOAGS BROTHER B. FRANKLIN MURPHY W f E will long remember Brother B. Franklin Murphy acclaimed by the Fisk University Athletic Department as the Most Outstanding Athlete on the campus for the past four years. We are proud of Brother Murphy, not only in the respect of this achievement, but because he is a true Alpha man, a student, scholar, and an unselfish friend. In all phases of athletics, whether it be fraternal, intramural, or collegiate, Brother Murphy participated whole-heartedly to obtain victory through clean competition. For participation in athletics at Fisk he has received sixteen awards and medals.

Brother Murphy received his A. B. degree from Fisk in June. He plans to enter Meharry Medical College in the Fall. This is the kind of a brother we are trying to send out into the world, and Alpha Chi is proud of Brother Murphy and his achievements.

AN ADDRESS MADE BY GEORGE R. ARTHUR TO CHICAGO BROTHERS T HAVE been asked to speak on the subject of Youth.

I should like to call it "Youth and Alpha Phi Alpha". It seems to me that Alpha Phi Alpha should have in Chicago among its various other committees, one in the interest of the Youth of the city. W e are putting our emphasis on young men in college; giving them scholarship grants and advice.

But, with the increasing importance of youth and the part youth plays in the world of today and the world of tomorrow, Chicago's Alpha Phi Alphas should have a committee, the personnel of which would be capable of selecting facts concerning the present needs of youth and analyze and interpret them in order that Alpha Phi Alpha throughout the world might assume its rightful place in the vanguard of Negro organizations having an interest in the preservation of Negro Youth.

The fraternity should have representation in various conferences concerning youth which are now being pro-

A LPHA CHI is proud of its President, Brother Walter N. Boags, who hails from Charleston, S. C. Brother Boags has been leading Alpha Chi in the true Alpha fashion, and with colors flying toward the "Balfour Cup." This brother has been very active in student affairs on Fisk campus. Some of which are: Varsity Football, Y. M. C. A. business manager of class, Student Council, President of S C A (1937-38), Men's Senate, historian of Alpha Chi, fraternity and class volleyball, Captain of Fraternity softball team (1939), member of the Inter-Fraternity Council, and member of the Intra-mural Athletic committee for three years.

Brother Boags acclaims being President of Alpha Chi as his greatest achievement. He realizes that the fraternity is a part of the college community, and is, therefore, working and planning to make Alpha Chi a definite contributor to the well being of Fisk. moted by the various youth movements of the city, state, and nation. The National Convention of the Fraternity should seriously consider the appointment of a national commission for the same purpose, because, as it is now, never does one hear in the national convention, state or local meetings on youth problems, the voice of Alpha Phi Alpha raised in comment, advice or in any way participating in questions relative to the present status of Negro Youth. It seems to me that one of the most important matters before the local and national meetings of the fraternity in this year should be this question as to what responsibility Alpha Phi Alpha should assume in helping to make the best contribution possible to the advancement of Negro Youth. I would suggest, therefore, that in their appointments, the presidents of both Xi Lambda and Theta chapters, Chicago, should consider the appointment of a youth committee with members from each chapter represented.

STATISTICS 4,300,000 criminals in the United States collect in crime yearly fifteen billion dollars. That of each 100 persons

THE

August, 1939

ALPHA DOINGS AROUND OFFICE OF THE SPHINX

Page 25

SPHINX

REAL ESTATE b INSURANCE BROKER

DROTHERS A. D. Shores and W. H. Hollins for several years felt that their group needed t h e service of a first class real estate and g e n e ral insurance business, so, a few weeks ago offices were open to render this service.

Brother Shores is an Attorney at law and will serve as vice presi'dent of the company and Brother Hollins, a law student, will be the company's President.

BROTHER W. H. HOLLINS

HTOP picture â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Brother Attorney Thurgood Marshall, prominent member of the N. A. A. C. P. legal staff, poses with Lewis O. Swingler, Sphinx Editor, Lieut. G. W. Lee, author and business man, and Utillus Phillips, president of the Memphis N. A. A. C. P. Branch, during a recent visit to Memphis.

Behold the Lightâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;In the bottom picture are shown four of five neophyte brothers who crossed the burning sands as members of Beta Xi Chapter, LeMoyne College.

Left to right the are: Sphinxman Silas Perkins, Brothers James Barker, Joseph Westbrook, William 0. Speight, William Lewis, and Benjamin Jones.

ELECTED PRESIDENT OF JEFFERSON COUNTY TEACHERS ASSOCIATION

YOUTH arrested last year, 53 or more than 50%, has been arrested at least one time prior to their last ari-ests; 30% of them had been in prison before; out of every 1,000 whose records were filed with the F. B. I., 515 were 30 years of age; 304 under 25 years; 174 under 21 years of age; and this last number of 17'/, of the total number of persons arrested in 1936 were under 21 years of age.

These young people accounted for 11% of all murders, 27% of thievery, 24", of rapists; 39% burglars; IS' , of auto thieves, and 26'/, of robberies.

This parade is certainly a pitiful self-condemning sight.

To know its trend we should know its cause and study its appeal. This should be the task of Alpha Phi Alpha.

BROTHER WILLIAM BOLDEN

DROTHER William Bolden is a product of the Birmingham public schools and Alabama State Teachers College. He is to be remembered as the smiling drummer with the 'Bama S t a t e C ollegians during the days Erskine Hawkins was attending school at Alabama State.

He taught science in t h e Jefferson County School System for six years. In nominating Brother Bolden for President the speaker said, "Mr Bolden is a man who does his own thinking."

Page 26

THE

SPHINX

August, 1939

f * A T E * N I T V rUAf DR.O.WILSON FRAT

How to Enjoy an Alpha

FUN

Convention]

J~\EAR Friends, And you are my friends if you read this column for it inveigles the editor to keep me on hi's pay-roll. They tell me that you are going to New York to the Alpha Convention. They tell me that you, too, are interested in the "Alpha Phi Alpha of Tomorrow" which is the theme of this convention. Let me, in my capacity of an Alphaite of yesterday and today, give you a few instructions and general information on "How to enjoy an Alpha Condon." There are four things necessary for your consideration: Preparation, Transportation, Acclimation and Observation.

Under preparation, the first thought is what to bring ?

And my first answer is if you have "one", brings "it".

It is necessary to use this ambiguous language because this letter is addressed to both men and women. So "one" means husband or wife; and "it" means "him" or "her".

If any other appellation is suitable, apply it also. If you are fiancee-ing bring "that" too but prepare to marry on arrival because of the crowded conditions and scarcity of rooms, separate accommodations might be hard to obtain.

A minister will be proffered before your rooms are assigned to you.

Transportation problems can be solved by the publicity given the schedules and rates that have been established to spur attendance at the World's Fair at New York.

When you're grooming your pretty Buicks, Packards and Cadillacs don't be too ecstatic over them. New Yorkers go in for Duesenbergs, Imperials, Rolls Royces; autos run second to "glad rags" in New York.

Acclimation will be simple if you keep one thing uppermost in your mind. You will be in New York City, the most amazing, all enveloping, and intriguing city in the world. Accept it as it is, its bluster, its grandiosity, its sophistication. Adjust yourself to Father Knickerbocker's habits for five days and your visit will live long in your memory whether you come from Spodunk, Iowa or Chi'ttling Switch, Georgia or Ambrosia, California; don't try to remake or rebuild New York, they are working on it all the time. The people who live there or one half of them are former neighbors from your home town. But they have changed. So, you too must change—for five days!

When you look for food (I mean you rural brothers and sisters) be prepared to eat broiled food, steaks, chops and many dishes of European and Pan American origin.

Yes, it is possible to get fried pork chops, black eyed peas, and hog maws—anything from the hog chittlings in to mountain oysters out. But the smart New Yorker frowns upon such plebian dishes. If you don't have an "angel" card you can't eat at Father Divine's. That sauce you will find on your lettuce is not an accident, eat it; it is Russian dressing. And that isn't bird shot between those crackers, that's caviar and the fishy taste is natural.

Don't sniff at that green stuff it is broccoli or Swiss Chard and is the aristrocratic cousin of turnip greens.

Watch your calories! You folks who are trying to stave off adiposity repeat these lines when you look at a menu,

WINTERS EDITOR "Two minutes in the mouth, two hours in stomach, and a life time on the hips."

If you're socializing, get your cues from the social secretary of the convention. Remember the words of the distinguished Chinese philosopher "Free love turns out to be the most expensive." And don't forget the historic quotation of that famous Vienese physician, "An hour with Venus often forecasts a decade with Mercury."

Observations—Seek out convention personalities, study them, learn about their domestic and fraternal hook-up.

There are twenty-seven dominant convention personalities of interesting personal and convention history a few of whom I will point out to you. The tall Adonis-type man with a black Morocco brief case under his arm is Brother Prof. Doctor Reverend Charles Wesley, president of the Alpha Tribe. You can't miss him he is tall, very good looking, light skinned, smooth black hair with a curly tuft falling lightly over the left eye. The A. M. E. Church needing some one to represent the province of Cuba at their next general conference had to draft Brother Wesley as the most Cubanesque type as a delegate to represent them.

That tall fellow with blue eyes and twinkling ones at that is one of us. You thought he was one of the Columbia University professors visiting our convention, didn't you ?

Isn't he dignified? Yet he has a keen sense of humor; is friendly, well read and a good physician. That lady with him with long sweeping eyebrows and charming southern bred, ingratiating smile is his wife. She conducts a charm school for young colored society girls at her home. Oh, yes, that is Dr. and Mrs. B. A. Rose of Dayton, Ohio.

For many years it has been said that Alpha was fortunate in garnering the brains of the collegiate world but that in the corralling an overwhelming share of homeliness (that's a kind way of saying "ugliness") was thrown in with the batch. It was also whispered that the Egyptian sun had steadily shown down upon and not any too kindly on a majority of us and that the sable mantle had shown very slow evidence of lifting its veil from Alpha men.

That's an unmitigated lie. Come to Eta Chapter. Come to New York to the convention. Don't ask for me or Jerrick, or Isaacs or Sheppard or Gordon or Wright. Look up Brother Piper, seek out Cardoza, Sidney Jones, Ted Berry, Felton Clark, Raymond Cannon, Elwood Downing, and I'll guarantee you blue eyes and flaxen hair in profusion.

If you want teasing, tantalizing sepia tones, I'll have on tap a Lawson, a Callis, a Bill H. Gray, or a Bert McDonald.

If you demand Creolean types, up comes a Rousseve, a Rayford Logan or a Bindley Cyrus. If you want to see pure unadulterated "brains" I will poi'nt out to you Howard Long, Joe Evans, Jewel Kelley. If you inisist on a reincarnation of Beau Brummell, look for Brothers Wayman Ward, Frank Stanley, Farrow Allen, Guinier, Anderson, the pride of Kentucky's legislature, and Henry J. Richardson, the scourge of Indiana's legislature. For cleverness, look for J. Edward Cotton; for modesty, look for Brother Swingler, Henry Lake Dickason and "Hoss" Greene from Atlanta. And to think, this list is from a

August, 1939

THE

"Hits and Misses"

SPHINX

Page 27

well where it is. So what about it Brothers, let's make it a permanent address. Beale Street is as good as any.

By J. EDWARD (Joe) COTTON As time moves slowly onward toward the great Convention in New York City, we note that there "will be in attendance several thousand friends and well-wishers who have no connection with the fraternity, either in a "wifely" manner or sweetheart way, and from all evidences, the big city will be quite crowded. I am looking for a large representation of Alpha men there—quite a number of things to take up. So, let's get the "ole tinlizzies" in shape so we can make it.

Limited amount of news this issue—too hot to concentrate but will mention a few things I think might be of interest.

I want all to know my "Ole Lady'' (College roommate to you, younger jitterbugs) has finally decided to marry.

I speak of Brother Scott Myles Brown, III of Institute W. Va., who in the latter part of May was married to a lovely Miss of Columbus, Ohio. Nice going Scotty. Hope to see you i'n New York. Regards to Bill Spriggs.

And speaking of W. Va., I received a letter the other day from an old friend wanting to know if I were the same ole J o e Cotton he used to know a few years ago in school. Had been reading my stuff and said it sounded like me—as if anybody else could write such nonsense but me. I am going to refer him to Brother Dickinson, Pres. of Bluefield Teachers College in his own city. Any recent low-down, Brother Dickinson might supply it.

Where is Bro. "Drummer" Scott?

One of the things I would like to see done at the coming Convention is the establishment of a permanent office for the Publication of the Sphinx. Since being actively engaged in some of the work for the past few years, I can see where such an enterprise rolling from place to place can gather very little moss. And not because I am a member of the staff it seems to have done pretty

Frat Fun cross section of that stratified rock that comprises the imperishable Sphinx of Alpha Phi Alpha.

Come on to New York, please come and follow these directions. Bring a copy of the Sphinx with you and pick out the notables I mentioned. They will all be there; in person. You can see them, hear them, feel them. Get in touch with me and I'll introduce you to scores of others —all selected and classified. You will easily recognize me because I shall be wearing either a blood red gabardine suit, saddle yellow high top shoes, cane and beret.

The only other fellow with a beret will be Brother Eugene Kinckle Jones—don't get us mixed.

I know you will enjoy this greatest of all Alpha conventions August 28—31 at Eta Chapter, New York City.

You will see there a prototype of the "Alpha Phi Alpha man of tomorrow."

Brother Milton S. J. Wright of Wilberforce University gave a very interesting account of the "Economic Life of the Negro" in the last issue of the Sphinx and shows that he has made some considerable study along these lines, however sometime in the future I would like to elaborate on some of his findings. This so-called study that I have made on "Education and The Negro of the South'' reveals a lot of Economic angles that would probably be somewhat of an aid to those "doctors" who propose remedies for the Negro. Sometimes I would like to gab with you.

Must bring this to a close but before doing so must say I must be losing ground where Olga is concerned. It isn't clicking as it used to. But I'll still be in there fighting.

Look out for me C. Franklin.

The first person I expect to see in the event I do manage to reach New York will be "Shorty" Atwater.

So Shorty be on the lookout for me and my gang.

Here's wishing that all can get to the big city before the summer is over and that all Brothers will find a way to attend the Convention. Try hard Brothers, and Thelma, somewhere on the way or there I would be pleased to see you.

HE PROMISED TO BE THERE P R O M I N E N T planter of Mound Bayou, Miss., 52-year-old All - Colored town of the Delta, was the t h i r d general president of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. He served during the year of 19 11.

During his tenure of office, Brother Miller was a student at Michigan University, having shortly been inducted into the fraternity as a membel of the newly organized Epsilon Chapter.

Three years ago when the Sphinx Office was transferred to Mem FREDERICK H. MILLER phis, Tennessee, and immediately thereafter announced a "policy" of reclamation, Brother Miller was one of the first Alpha men to come back into the fold through the influence of this office. Today he is an active member of Alpha Delta Lambda Chapter, Memphis, and prom. ises to be on hand to join his brothers in New York City this month,

Page 28

THESPHINX

August, 1939

Alpha as a World Organization VISION OF THAT DAY CLEARER WITH SETTING UP OF BETA PSI Background For London Chapter Is Explained In September 1932, it was my privilege to take ship to England for the purpose of studying Sociology at the University of London on a Yale University Fellowship. While there I caught a vision of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity as a world organization of Negro College men. It was not an idle dream or fantasy nor was it born in a single night. Rather, it was the fruit of long observation and reflection. I hac! been a resident in England a year. During that year I became intimately acquainted with a number of the finest Negro students that it has been my privilege to meet outside of the bonds of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. They were British subjects, chiefly from the various countries of Africa and from the West India Islands. What was the composition of this group and what was its needs?

HARRY W. ROBERTS Editor's Notes—The 25th Anniversary Convention, held in Nashville, Tennessee during the closing days of 1935, was marked by a stirring plea on the part of Brother Harry W. Roberts, of Virginia State College, Ettrick, Va., for the establishment of an Alpha Phi Alpha Chapter in London, England. The setting up of Beta Psi, London, England, in 1938 is the answer to that plea. For t'le benefit of the hundreds of younger brothers who have been inducted into the organization since the Silver Anniversary Session and the still larger number of brothers who were not present in Nashville, the address of Brother Roberts is herewith given (in part) in order that there may be a clearer understanding of the background from which emanates Alpha's just claim to international influence throug'i Beta Psi Chapter at London.

Brother president and brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, greetings: I deem it a great pleasure and honor, and a privilege to be afforded this opportunity to present to you in person a matter that weighs heavily upon my heart. Three different national organizations with which I have connections are meeting between Dec. 28th and Jan. 1st. It was at the eleventh hour that I decided that the matter which I have to present to you was so weighty as to claim my first and whole attention to the exclusion of these other interests.

Having made my decision at such a late hour, I was compelled to hastily write down on paper some of the things which I should like to say to you.

The smaller number of men who come from the West Indies are recruited from two main sources. Part of this number come from the ranks of the sons of successful professional and business men and of government civil servants; the other part is composed of men, who, because of their scholarly attainments have won scholarships to the British Universities.

Of the African students, some few come from East Africa, one or two from South Africa; but a large number from the countries on the West Coast of Africa; in addition, there are several students from the great country of Abyssinia, that is now waging a heroic struggle for the maintenance of its independence. Some of these Africans, are sons of chiefs, called kings in the early days of British Imperialism. Those who are not sons of chiefs, are sons of successful merchants, professional men, and government civil servants, including those who by sheer ability have lifted themselves from the ranks.

They are par excellence, the flower of Africa and her future leaders.

They are by birth, by education, by their economic and social standing Africa's future rulers.

There are always from

fifty

to

one hundred of these men distributed among the Universities and colleges of England and Scotland; the larger number among the Universities of Liondon, Oxford and Cambridge in the order named. Thirty or more of these students reside in London, and all make that city the center of their social activities.

In addition to these students in the universities and colleges, there are several Negro professional men— substantial citizens — practicing in London who have social standing in the white as well as in the black world of London. They hold degrees from Oxford, Cambridge, London and the Universities of Edinburgh. What have these men and, particularly, the students in the way of organized life outside the class room ? There are two Negro organizations which they may join: one of these is the League of Colored People, upon the executive council of which I had the pleasure to serve for two years. Of this organization Brother President Dr. Wesley was one of the founders. This organization, interested largely in the welfare of Negroes in London, appsars now to appeal more to the West Indian students than the Africans. The other organization is the West African students Union, which as you may gather from its name, is interested chiefly in the students from and the problems of West Africa. Without belittling the value of these organizations, they tend in a measure to perpetuate among students who come from various parts of the British Empire, that provincialism and separatism, which it is the policy for all imperialist governments to foster—this policy being to divide and rule. There is no organization among them of the nature nor on-e with the aims of our Fraternity.

There is a tendency for the students from the Gold Coast to think that the students from the Gold Coast have special interests peculiar to themselves, for the South African student to think simply in terms of South Africa and for the Abyssinian to see only the problems of Abyssinia.

The bane of Africa, as reflected in the thinking of her reprtesentative youth, is division. Therefore, they need that great ideal of our fraterni-

August, 1939 ty which is brotherhood. These students from the West Indies and Africa come thousands of miles to spend from three to eight years in a university located in a foreign country.

They are far from the wholesome, guiding, sustaining and controlling influence of their native instructors which aid in developing mainly character. Character is an ideal of our Fraternity. These students need the ideal of manly character enshrined and incorporated in an institution and held before their eyes as it has been held up before our eyes, as an essential element of a succesful life. These students are young men from eighteen years of age and upward and like our own students face the danger of totally misconceiving the purpose may suffer from the absence of an adequate stimulus to inspire them to worthy achievement. Thousands of Negro youths in America, both within and without our fraternal bonds have been inspired to intellectual achievement by reason of the fact that knowledge as an ideal has been enshrined by our fraternity in its program, its organization, and most beautifully in the lives of its eminent scholars. What it has done for the Negro youth of America, it can do for the Negro youth of Africa and the West Indies. The Negro student in London needs a bond that will unite him into a great fraternal fellowship, a bond that is strong enough to transcend geographical and cultural barriers, that will give them a group consciousness, a sense of unity and fellow-feeling—the prerequisite to collective or group action. This is the need that I saw August 1933 and occasioned my written request to the last General Convention convened at St. Louis, Missouri for permission to set up a chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity in London.

The second question that may be raised is it Feasible? The Benevolent Order of Elks have established a branch in London. And in the fall of 1933 I had a group of undergraduates, men, who were definitely interested in the establishment of a branch of our fraternity in London. In short, in answering this question, I should like to repeat the popular saying that, "Where there is a will there is a way."

Is it desirable that we establish a branch in London? I think it is preeminently desirable because of the time in which we live. What more opportune time than this could we

THE

SPHINX

extend the rule of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity across the seaa ? We are now living in a period of great transformation, a time that is witnessing world repercussions—the rise and fall of empires, a time when the nations, races, and peoples of the world are putting up a most terrific struggle to survive, when the English and American whites are working for the ascendancy of the English speaking peoples, when on the continent they are talking of the United States and the concert of Europe, when the Japanese are talking of Pan-Asia, and when minority groups, like the Jews, while skillfully holding their own in the western world, are nevertheless steadily building for themselves a national home in Palestine, and are carrying back to the Eastern Jew, the culture of the west; a time when men become class conscious, are organizing themselves around their class interests; and we see an international labor movement carrying on a relentless struggle to overthrow the existing order of things, and to establish a world state of workers under the battle cry "Workers of the world Unite." It is a time when the white world is united and bound together by international treaties, a consciousness of common interest, bound together by myriads of bonds of which the airplane, the telegraph, the telephone, the radio, steamship, railroads, motor highways, cultural, learned and social societies are but visible expressions. And these instruments of communication which unite and bind men together, which give them a knowledge of each other, an enlightened feeling of essential oneness, and without which collective action is impossible, are all in the hands of the white people. The lack of such instruments in the hands of the Negro peoples of the world accounts in no small measure for the gross ignorance and consequent ineffectiveness, and the lack of any concerted effort on the part of three or four hundred million Negro peoples in the world in the Italo-Ethiopian conflict. So that if the American Negro today were faced with a similar situation as the Jew in Germany, he would, by virtue of his lack of contact with the millions of Negroes in other parts of th e world, have to suffer alone, even in many cases without their sympathy.

I have already informed you as to the quality and type of men whom we would bring into our bonds. They

Page 29 are the elite, the present and future leaders of the Negro world. Only the cream of the race gets to England, and our Fraternity if established there would be the first and only one; and therefore, could select without competition the best from the best.

SPHINX VISITORS The Editor Takes This Means to acknowledge the visits of a large number of brothers to the office during the past year. Altho space is not available for publication of all names, Sphinx Office visitors have come from every section of the country. Come again, brothers.

r

When In Memphis Visit—

THE ELK'S REST 401 Beale St.

Phone 8-9702

Your Pleasure Spot On Beale Street

THE

Page 30

August, 1939

SPHINX

I.R B.R B.R B.R B.R B.R B.R B.R B.R B.R B.R B.R B.R B.R B.R

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I VOICE OF THE SPHINX â&#x20AC;˘w.r> *.r> a.r> H.I* H.K. ~WG- <I.M ^I.H a.ÂŤ < a . g ~ * R ^ ^ . l r ~ < v ^ ^ M ' - < ? ^ ^

EPSILON CHAPTER OBSERVES ITS 30TH

ANNIVERSARY

Epsilon of the University of Michigan Epsilon Chapter of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, celebrated its thirtieth anniversary at a banquet in the Dunbar. The Dunbar was beautifully decorated with the colors and symbols of the fraternity.

Brother Armstead Pierro, the M. C, gave a short history of the founding of the chapter. In a jovial manner he introduced each brother and in turn each brother introduced his company.

Our hats are off to Brother Robert Baker who is respon ible for the glorious evening and a gala affair.

The entire affair was "tops'', the song was sung at midnight with the "charming queans" bringing the rhythm in a background of beauty and comfort.

"ON TO NEW YORK? WE'LL BE THERE!!"

Fraternally yours, JULIAN RODGERS.

Zeta Lambda

Chapter

NEWPORT NEWS, VA. Zeta Lambda Chapter this year planned a program designed not only to interest the members, but the general public as well. The main feature was the sponsoring of a public forum to be addressed by outstanding leaders of the nation.

On Thursday evening, April 20, the brothers repaired to a local night club and enjoyed a "Stag Dinner" prepared by the chapter's social committee, headed by Brother W. A. Miller. A genuine good time in true Alpha fashion was experienced by all the brothers present.

Brother T. Roger Thompson is principal of Booker T. Washington Elementary School and is doing an excellent job.

THE

August, 1939

SPHINX

PagŠ 31

DELTA LAMBDA CHAPTER, BALTIMORE, MARYLAND

Front row, left to right: Brothers: Dr. Bruce Alleyns, D. J. Whitfield, Secretary; Dr. Miles W. Conner, Rev. K. E. Downs, visitor; C. C. Jackson, Jr., President; Dr. Maurice Alams, Raymond Carpenter. Back row, left to right: Brothers: Woodley Lawrence, Dolbert Hardin, Dr. Douglass Shephard, Rufus Hackett, Furman L. Templeton, Walter T. Dixon, Treasurer.

Brother Stephen Howe, new Physical Education teacher at Huntington High School, has just about revolutionized athletic activities there. His success has been brilliant.

Other Huntington High teachers are Brothers W. A. Miller, G. Wesley Raney, Jr., Charles Jones, Clarence Johnson, and W. A. Robinson.

Brother O. H. Smith is an undertaker.

Brother Gansey Edward Ellis is now a Service Station owner.

Brother L, A. Fowlkes, dentist, is not only prominent in his home city, but active in many state-wide movements.

Signed, John R. Picott, President Charles Jones, Secretary. o

Omicron Lambda

Chapter

BIRMINGHAM, ALA. Greetings Brothers: Our biggest job during this season of the year, is studying ways to keep cool, however, the brothers of Omicron Lambda are pushing forward in spite of the heat. Brother Cleophus Haygood is working on his M. A. Degree at Columbia University. News from Brother Fred (Red) Curtis stating he enjoyed a successful year

at the University of Colorado and will be home, after a trip to New Jersey.

Brother H. L. (Hog) Mosely, is all smiles since he has taken unto himself a better half.

Brother C. J. Greene proved to the Atlanta Life Insurance Company that he could not only hold their second largest district, but, he is threatening the home office district which is in the first position.

Special greetings to Brothers Emery H. Jennings and Wm. (Bill) Hale of Langston University, Phil Waring of W. Va. State.

Brother A. D. Shores made himself felt keenly by the Negroes of Birmingham by filing a petition for Writ of Mandamus, against the Board of Registrars for not -registering Negroes because of their color.

In the business field, Brother Wayman Mattherson has opened a first class barbecue shoppe. i Brother Wilbur H. Hollins and Arthur D. Shores have gone into the Real Estate and General Insurance Business.

Too much praise cannot be given Brother T. M. Alexander of Atlanta, Ga., for the fine contribution he is making in the general Insurance field. The skill in which he operates his business is a credit to the race.

Yours fraternally, WILBUR H. HOLLINS, Editor to Sphinx.

Page 32

THE

Beta Beta Lambda

Chapter

MIAMI, FLA. Greetings Brothers: Again the voice of Beta Beta Lambda, the southernmost chapter, speaks. Brother Dr. F. Eugene Butler who was initiated back in 1910, is a successful physician as is Brother Dr. S. H. Johnson. Brother Dr. Ira P. Davis, in addition to dentist practice, is prominent in civic affairs; especially active in the veteran association. Other successful dentists on our rosters are Brother Drs. W. H. Murrell and A. W. Goodwin.

Brother Fred L. Johnson is cashier-bookkeeper at the Liberty Square government housing project; Brother S. M. Moseley is the principal of one of the local high schools which is the largest in the state. Other brothers in the teaching profession are: Leo A. Lucas, J. K. Johnson, Anthony E. Gardiner, Nathaniel A. Colston, and S. O. Cohen. Brother E. W. F. Stirrup, Jr., is taking time off from his studies at Northwestern University Law School to assist his father in the real estate business; while Brother John D. Johnson has just entered the University of Michigan Law School. Brother Nathaniel Muse, not shown in the photograph, has transferred from Beta Nu Chapter at Florida A. & M. College, where he has just graduated.

August, 1939

SPHINX

Your correspondent will be seeing you in New York at the Convention.

Fraternally yours, ANTHONY E. GARDINER.

Beta

Iota Lambda

Chapter

BATON ROUGE, LA. Dear Brothers: Beta Iota Lambda, on e of Alpha's youngest, is very active in Louisiana in spite of the fact that it has been silent in these columns.

Before the advent of Beta Iota Lambda, Alpha Phi Alpha was suffering a drastic slump in the vicinity of Baton Rouge. The formation of a second graduate chapter in Louisiana brought the infusion of a new spirit.

Beta Sigma, young, feeble, and inexperienced, took on new courage and its assertion on the campus of Southern University is sensed very vigorously. This is due, undoubtedly, to the presence on the campus of four members of Beta Iota Lambda: Brother Dr. J. S. Clark, who recently completed his first year as President Emeritus of Southern University after a quarter of a century at the helm; Brother Dr. Felton G. Clark (Doctor of Philosophy), scholar, executive, and master-thinker, whose first year as President of Southern University was distinctive

August, 1939

THE

SPHINX

Page 33

PROMISING FUTURE IN MEMPHIS FOR ALPHADOM

The Present and Future of the Fraternity appears safa and promising in Memphis, the city overlooking the Mississippi River on the Chickasaw Bluff, with this fine galaxy of Alpha Brothers and their sons. Left to right seated, they are: Brothers Dr. A. A. White, house physician at Terrell Memorial Hospital; Attorney A. A. Latting, leading lawyer in Memphis, and teacher of political science at LeMoyne College; and Prof. Walter W. Gibson, instructor of science at LeMoyne College. Standing, left to right are: Brothers Robert L. Prince, manager of the Memphis District of the Universal Life Insurance Company; and H. C. Latham, teacher at Booksr T. Washington High School, and Assistant Art Editor of the Sphinx. All the sons are juniors.

and colorful; Brother William H. Gray, Jr., in charge of the extension department of Southern University and President of the state Interscholastic Athletic and Literary Association—an instrument for the dissemination of culture and good-will over the state; and Brother VicePresident Russell W. Smith whose two decades of Alphadom places him in a class by himself—a paragon of the Hellenic spirit.

During the early months of Beta Iota Lambda's existence, two neophytes crossed the burning sands to behold the glorious, guiding light of Alpha Phi Alpha. The new brothers are respectively Professor Russel M. Ampey, associate professor of the biological sciences at Southern University and Rev. James Hudson, college pastor of Leland College (Baker, La.) of which Brother Rev. Dr. J. Alvin Bacoats is president.

Socially Beta Iota Lambda has been anything but inactive. Although the chapter gave no formal, there were a number of grand Alpha get-to-gethers. There were two

events in the social calendar for Baton Rouge that were essentially and predominately Alpha. Brother Charles W. Thomas, professor of English at Southern University, celebrated the anniversary of his election to the exclusive honor fraternity of Phi Beta Kappa. Brother Thomas entertained in a unique manner, using an Oriental motif out of which developed a program distinctive, cultured, and far from boring.

But the big news of Beta Iota Lambda was the 'passage'.

Brother Harrison D. Lawless, Jr., Master of Arts in Elementary Education (Columbia University), ranking teacher in the Baton Rouge Public School System, and Field Executive of the Istrouma Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America, took unto himself a bride—the lovely Marjorie Dumas, daughter of the famed Dr. A. W. Dumas, Sr., of Natchez, Mississippi.

Yes—Beta Iota Lambda is out there and will be there \vli2n the roll is called in New York.

JAMES H. BOSWELL, Secretary.

Page 34

THE

SPHINX

August, 1939

ALPHA CHI THROWS "HAT IN RING" FOR BALFOUR CUP

In all phases of campus life Alpha Phi Alpha men have taken prominent roles. The ideals of Alpha Phi Alpha have always been to guide toward gentlemanlinessâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;victory or .lefeat. Thus, Alpha Chi is doing its bit in aiding the future leaders in Negro life to make those adjustments that are essential to purposeful living.

Each commencement means the passing on of the ignited torch of Alpha Phi Alpha at Fisk to undergraduate brothers, and Sphinxmen. We proudly accepted the ignited torch from the following brothers who recently said farewell: Brother Ralph W. Amerson, from Vallejo, Cal., with a major in Economics; Brother Leroy F. Anderson, Charleston, S. C , with a major in History; Brother Robert M. Hendrick, Jr., Asheville, N. C, with a major in Chemistry; Brother H. LaMonte Mitchell, Dayton, Ohio, with a major in Sociology; and Bro.her B. Franklin Murphy, Buffalo, N. Y., with a major in Chemistry. These brothers have so whole-heartedly supported Alpha Chi that we are certain they will hold ever aloft the ideals of our Dear Fraternity.

Possibly the greatest achievement of Alpha Chi and by far greater than any achievement of any other organization on the campus was the awarding of a scholarship of $75.00 t ) an undergraduate student. Miss Grace Young of Dayton, Ohio, who is a sophomore is the recipient of this award. Alpha Chi is trying to set an example for Alpha chapters everywhere. That is the donation of scholarships. The funds for this scholarship were raised by means of a popularity contest. Miss Mary Jane Greene of Kansas City, Mo., was winner of the contest and title, "Fisk's Most Popular Coed." The awarding of a scholarship has been adopted as a yearly feature of Alpha Chi's program.

Alpha Sigma

Chapter

WILEY COLLEGE Time marches on, and so does Alpha Sigma Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

Graduation in June claimed some of our best loved and most outstanding brothers, namely: Curtis Sprott, Jesse Widemon, Harland Osborne, Lewis Hurt, Wilbur Byrd.

These brothers will long be cherished in the memory of Alpha Sigma, having contributed much to the uplift of the chapter.

Alpha Sigma observed "Education for Citizenship"

Week May 1-7. We were honored to have Brother Attorney A. A. Latting of Memphis, Tennessee to deliver the main address Sunday, May 7, "Fighting for Citizenship."

He was accompanied by Brother Lewis 0. Swingler, National Editor of Sphinx and Editor of the Memphis World, who introduced him to the faculty, student body, citizens of Marshall, Texas, and many visiting friends.

The Alpha Kappa Alpha Regional was recently entertained by a breakfast given by Alpha Sigma. This affair was a very unique occasion.

Alpha Sigma is contemplating great things in 1939-40.

Fraternally yours, James C. Wallace, Jr., Secretary

August, 1939

THE

SPHINX

Page 35

ALPHA SIGMA CHAPTER, WILEY COLLEGE

The "Light Of The World" insignia used by brothers of Alpha Sigma Chapter during their annual observance of "Education for Citizenship Campaign" has evoked enthusiastic praises from Wiley's faculty and student body during the past two years. Guest speaker this past spring was Brother Attorney A. A. Latting, of Memphis, who first "saw the light" at Alpha Sigma when he was engaged in educational work in Texas ten years. Brother Latting was presented to the college by Sphinx Editor Lewis O. Swingler.

Shown in the picture, left to right, front row, are:â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Herman H. Clay, Jesse J. Widemon, Curtis B. Sprott, Proncell F. Anderson, and Lewis R. Hurt. Second row: Reuben Mini?, Joel C. Harris, Robert T. Riley, Jas. T. Sprott, and James C. Wallace, Jr. Third row: Fred T. Long. Back row: Vattel E. Daniel, Harland W. Osborne, Prince T. Young, Nolan H. Anderson, and Walter B. Ford. Not present in picture are Joseph S. Alexander, Wilbur Byrd, Howard Mason, Harold K. Logan, Freeman P. Hodge, and Kelso B. Morris.

Beta Sigma Chapter SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY Beta Sigma proudly acclaims the program of this closing school term; the brothers are beyond a doubt true representatives of Alpha. The program drawn up in September was carried out to its fullest extent with the aid and coopei-ation of each brother.

Education for Citizenship week with the theme "A Voteless People is a Hopeless People" was rendered very effectively. Brother Dr. J. S'. Clark, President Emeritus of Southern University, was the speaker for the initial program, Sunday evening, April 23, 1939. On Wednesday Brother Dr. J. A. Bacoats, President of Leland College, was the guest speaker and in the final program, Friday, April 28, Brother Lewis 0. Swingler, Editor of the Sphinx, was the principal speaker; he succeeded in creating interest among the students, in that his speech embraced a subject relative to the Negro Youth.

Climaxing the week Friday evening, April 28, in the University's Gymnasium was the Annual Alpha prom; "A Black and Gold Fantasy." The beautiful decorations, lights and unusually good music made it an evening not to be forgotten.

Thursday, April 27, 1939, in a formal initiation Brothers Hailey, Harris, Hibler, Harrington, Bashful, Stevenson and Kelly were successful in crossing the burning sands into Alpha land. These neophyte brothers promise added strength to Beta Sigma.

Thursday evening, May 4, Brother J. William Hall, baritone soloist, in a joint recital showed tendencies to be a great artist. Following the recital the brothers gave a smoker m honor of Brother Hall. The enjoyable affair was interspersed with short speeches of appreciation and encouragement, refreshments and music.

Having just about successfully completed another school term the brothers made plans for vacation. Many plans were made to attend the New York Convention.

Beta Pi LANE COLLEGE Greetings Brothers: Beta Pi has made her last salute for the school year of '38-'39 and brothers it has really been a banner year for Beta Pi. Our education for citizenship Campaign was a success. The Chapter has made liberal contribution to the college. Our Pre-Mother's Day Program took the city of Jackson by storm. It has been rumored that the mayor of the city wants to change the City's name to "Alphason".

Brother Beck has been acting Dean of the college and he has done a splendid job. Brother LeRoy Tyus, a former member of Beta Pi, was on the campus for a few hours and as usual a fashion plate. Brother John Bowden returned to the campus for the spring quarter after a successful year as a schoolmaster. The (Apes) were well represented in the Glee Club this year by Brothers Nunn,

Page 36

THE

ACHIEVEMENTS CITED

SPHINX

August, 1939

Alpha Iota Lambda

Chapter

CHARLESTON, W. VA. ' Z E T A Lambda Chapter is proud to present to Alphadom L. F. Palmer, officially named by the Times-Dispatch one of Virginia's outstanding citizens.

The Times-Dispatch has begun the policy of announcing an annual Honor Roll. The paper expressed its purpose thus: "To single out a limited number of citizens who have shown conspicuous c o u r a g e , ability, intelligence, or tenacity during the twelve months immeditely preceding. Persons in every sphere of activity are considered eligible for inclu-

BROTHER L. F. PALMER

sion, provided they have been pre-eminent in that sphere.

It will be our endeavor to name to the Times-Dispatch Virginia's Honor Roll only those who have achieved above and beyond what is expected of them. To gain a place on the roll, it is not sufficient merely to do a job well. It must be done superlatively well.''

"LUTRELLE FLEMING PALMER, principal of the Huntington High School in Newport News, is a public employee who has done his work so superlatively well that its good results have extended far beyond the bounds of his own field of employment. During the 18 years in which he has been its principal, Huntington has become one of the leading Negro High Schools of the South, and it now represents a model achievement in the field of secondary education for Negroes."

Cleaves, Harris, Haugh, Meacham, T. R. Spann and Hawkins. Then brothers, came May 26, the day that made more history for Beta Pi and Alpha Phi Alpha. We held our Annual banquet in the college Refectory which was decorated beautifully in colors of A Phi A. Our large A Phi A insignia, was placed on the outside of the building. The main address was delivered by Brother A. A. Latting and one of the nation's foremost editors, none other than Brother Lewis O. Swingler. Brother Swingler introduced Brother Latting in true Alpha style. Unfortunately for us, Brothers here at Beta Pi, we had to tell the young ladies that Brother Swingler is a bachelor.

After the banquet we journeyed on to the beautiful Collier's Lake, and had a very enjoyable evening. We had seven brothers who bid Beta Pi goodbye this year by graduation. They were: brothers Fant, Spann, Pettis, Gray, Forte, Abram, and Helm. We will Brother Johnny Culler, (The Chattanooga Kid), to Alpha Rho. Brother Dr. Lane, President of Lane College, has been very busy this year working on the college's half million dollar endow-

Alpha Iota Lambda is happy to extend greetings and best wishes to brothers in Alpha at a time when all are looking forward to a grand reunion at the National Convention in New York City.

During the past year, the chapter under the able and inspired leadership of it:; officers together with a cooperative membership, has continued to progress civlcly as well as fraternally. It is with a degree of pride to note, that Alpha men continue to hold their rank in the civic, social and political life of Charleston and vicinity.

In early May we were pleasantly surprised with a visit

by Brother Joseph Evans, General Secretary. Brother Evans had at that time just completed a tour of the deep south, and was feted with a smoker at the home of Brother A. W. Curtis at Institute. Brother Curtis is Director of the Department of Agriculture at West Virginia State College.

Brother Rayford W. Logan, Director of Education, was the guest of Alpha Iota Lambda May 13. At a smoker which proved to be the largest attended meeting of the current year, Brother Logan discussed from his rich field of experience, the many problems facing Negroes, educationally and economically, and offered a number of suggestions relative to the local conditions of our raoial group.

The following day, May 14, Brother Logan addressed the Charleston Branch of the N. A. A. C. P. The hearts of Alpha Iota Lambda were saddened by the untimely passing of our beloved Brother, Joseph R. Jones on May 2G. Brother Jones was held in high esteem throughout this section as was indicated by the large delegations representing various organizations i'n attendance at his funeral. Brother Rev. Vernon Johns delivered the eulogy. Truly, Alpha has lost a loyal son.

The summer season finds Brother Andrew H. Calloway, Assistant County Superintendent of Schools, at Ohio State University. Brother Earl J. Reason, chapter president, is enrolled at Wittenberg University, while Brother Fred Page is continuing his graduate work at the University of Pittsburgh.

We are sure all brothers will join us in extending congratulations and best wishes for the success of the recently opened "Will-O-Bend" beach and club, owned and operated by Brothers David A. Scott and "Billy" McCoy of Charleston, West Virginia.

Brothers Julius M. Gardner, United States Housing Authority Architect; Kermit J. Hall, Assistant Director of the Bureau of Negro Welfare for the State of West Virginia; Eddie L. James, produce salesman and Brother Rev. Vernon Johns will represent Alpha Iota Lambda at the National Convention.

ment fund. Brother Dr. Lane is a true Alpha man. The outlook next year is good. The Chapter is expecting to be led next year by Brother W. Samuel Beasley, as President. To add more strength to Beta Pi, both in achievements and number, will be the following neophyte brothers: Travis, Dobbs, Stone, Draper, Richardson, Haugh, Cleaves, Lightfoot, Massey, Harrison, Nunn, Cleveland, and Cromm, and Horton.

Fraternally yours, Verleen G- Wheeler, Editor to the Sphinx.

August, 1939

THE

Beta Gamma Chapter VIRGINIA STATE COLLEGE Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha: Beta Gamma Greets You! With the close of the school year Beta Gamma closed a successful program of varied activities. On Sunday afternoon, April 23, the chapter presented in an address to the college community Brother Rayford Logan, the Director of Education. On the following Friday evening the local Alphas entertained at their spring formal dance with Hartley Toots and orchestra beating out the swing.

The dance was held in the college gymnasium, beautifully decorated as a garden scene. Huge bunches of grapes (purple balloons) hung from the enormous grape vines above. The effect, coupled with the gorgeously gowned girls, was nothing short of entrancing.

Earlier this same week five initiates became neophytes upon entering the folds of Alpha Phi Alpha. The newly inducted brothers were: Wilbur Wyatt, Sinclair Jeter, Edward Shelton, Simon Cook and Cooley.

In the track meets, Brother William Symms, last year's champion, placed third in the broad jumping event. Fencing here at the college was carried forward by brothers William Smith and Donald Thigpen. Brother Jetter, ' neophyte, has won no little acclaim in debating and was awarded a gold key for his attainments.

Recently the chapter refurnished its fraternity room, including in its new holdings a combination radio-phonograph set.

When Alpha Phi Alpha convenes in New York Beta Gamma will be represented by Brothers William Smith and William Symms.

Many other men will make every effort to attend the convention.

Beta Gamma will resume its work in September with thirteen fewer members, who donned caps and gowns and stepped out to carry the name of Alpha to greater heights.

Graduating brothers were: Hugh Hill, John Byrd, William A. Jones, Henry Lipscomb, Hugo Ownes, Robert Robinson, David Holmes, Jack Pettigrew, Simon Cook, Norman Perry, Walter Jones, Irving Hackett and Victor L. Washington.

Beta Gamma bids all brothers success in all endeavors; let us all strive to carry the name of Alpha Phi Alpha to even greater heights.

Fraternally, William H. Baugh, Associate Editor to Sphinx.

SPHINX

Pcrae 37

gave a most inspiring address in Charleston and also at the school. The evening was closed with a reception. The efficiency and success of the program is to be accredited to brother Eugene Sills.

Alpha Zeta has initiated in the school program the award of a trophy which is to promote scholarship among Freshmen students. This trophy is awarded to the Freshman students having the highest average for the year. Alpha Zeta was proud to present this trophy to Miss Yevonne Jackson, whose average was 2.9 (out of a possible three point). Alpha Zeta is also happy to say that brother John Cuyjet was next to the top with 2.8. This trophy was presented to Miss Jackson by Brother Rayford W. Logan.

It was indeed a pleasure to have Brother Joseph H. B. Evans to honor us with his presence while touring in West Virginia. A smoker at the home of brother Curtis was given in his honor.

The school year was closed with the Senior Farewell Bonfire. The parting sentiments of each of the fifteen graduating members. The Sphinx club provided a very interesting program of songs, instrumental music, and delicious refreshments. When the hour of departure came there was present that feeling that cannot be explained when for the last time in college days they sang the chapter and national hymns.

The year 1938-1939 closed and wa s placed among the memories of one more glorious and memorable year. ' Brother John F. Cuyjet, Historian, o

Alpha Theta Lambda ATLANTIC CITY, N. J. Under the careful guidance of Brother Ferdinand C. Newton, assisted by a group of the younger grads, Alpha Theta Lambda chapter has been re-established and sends greetings from the City-By-The-Sea. The chapter has a membership of many of the leading men of this sectfon of the state, and has carried on an active program during the past year.

A motorcade to Lineo'i where they wore the guests of the brothers at Nu, several social events, a beneficial visit

by Brothers Jerrick and Winters of Philadelphia, and Brother Allen of New York City, were among memorymaking events.

o

Alpha Zeta Chapter WEST VIRGINIA STATE COLLEGE Alpha Zeta was very active this year on the West Virginia State College campus and upheld the precepts and ideals of Alpha Phi Alpha. Some of the banners that waved were, first, the Annual Prom May 25, which was the'most uniquely and splendidly conducted. Its theme was that of the World's Fair. Its construction was directed by brother John Fountain, assisted by brothers John White and John Cuyjet.

That same weekend found Alpha Zeta Chapter celebrating Mother's Day, at which time we had the pleasure of presenting Brother Rayford W. Logan. Brother Logan

The chapter is busy with its summer social program and also with helping your scrivener, the executive at the YMCA, in looking after the brothers, and others, here looking for summer work. The Brothers are also planning to send delegates to the National Convention in New York City. Brothers Dart, Spencer and Lockkett have been named to attend as delegates.

Our present roster is as follows: Adolphus Baytori, C. M. Cain, Attorney William A. Dart, Dr. Richard M. Fowler, R. T. Lockett, Attorney James A. Lightfoot, Arwin Hamm, Dr. Leroy P. Morris, Clarence Jacobs, Dr. H. Donald Marshall, Ferdinand C. Newton, Nathaniel Spencer, C. Theodore Valentine, Dr. W. Oscar Harris and Austin Martin.

R. T. Lockett, Associate Editor.

Pago 38

THE

CONVENTION CALL Continued From Page 3 to become acquainted with only one fraternal point of view. In the General Convention, one catches a national point of view. He meets brothers and makes contacts which are often important for him in future years. We would urge you to attend the convention if it is at all possible. You will be a better Alpha man by so doing.

There are many problems in our organization which call for consideration and action. We need your help in seeking a solution for them. Chapter-house financing calls for consideration in the light of requests which come to us. Student loans are deserving of our thoughtful deliberations. The status of our undergi-aduates in the General Organization, chapter initiations, graduate and undergraduate relationships, the educational program and similar questions require our attention.

The present and future program of the fraternity may need reconsideration. The racial program which we have sponsored is being questioned by some few members of the fraternity. Do we not need to reaffirm our objectives and reinterpret our purpose to be First of All in order to be Servants of All? Did the Founders intend that we should have this type of program? If they did not, are we in error in supporting such a program? Can we reconstruct a better one in New York? Many such issues and incidental questions will be before us, which vitally affect the interests of the Fraternity and it is imperative that we should have the inspiring presence and wisdom of a large cross-section of the fraternity. Let us plan to have representation from every active chapter and brothers present from inactive chapters.

And now, by virtue of the authority vested in me as General President, and pursuant to the action of the Thirty-first Anniversary Convention, I herewith officially summon the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity to assemble in its Thirty-Third Anniversary Convention, August 27-31, 1939, in New York City. Then, on t o ' N e w York where we shall help to build the Alpha Phi Alpha pf Tomorrow while we join also in building the World of Tomorrow!

Sincerely and Fraternally you-s, CHARLES H. WESLEY, General President.

SPHINX

August, 1939

Brother Allen did not become disheartened. Determined in spirit, he continued to make "contact" with these companies; the same firms in many instances. Metal Arts Company, sizing up the situation as explained by Brother Allen, decided to give it a trial. No "strings were attached" to the proposition. The young Fiskite was given the full status of a salesman, with financial backing to work in the territory he himself had designated as a starting point. It was up to him to make goodâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;to blaze the trail for others. Failure, perhaps would have muffled another opportunity of this kind for years to come. But Brother Allen did not fail.

Today Metal Arts Company, within a period of three years, have employed seven full-time Negro salesmen, and three part-time representatives. The entire force consists of a Director of Sales who is A. L. Allen, a graduate of Fisk University. Other salesmen represent some of the leading colleges of the country. Brother Lonnie F. Briscoe, LeMoyne College, travels in Texas and Louisiana; W. 0.

Yarbrough, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, graduate of Fisk University, i s a North Carolina representative; C. L. Blackwell, Hampton Institute, former dean of Thyne Institute, travels in Virginia, West Virginia, and District of Columbia, Brother A. S. Spain, A. B. Fisk, M. A. University of Michigan, Arkansas and Oklahoma; Harold Johnson, A. B. Knoxville College, Virginia and Maryland; and R. C. Browder, Florida, Georgia and Southern Alabama. He is a graduate of Fisk University, and a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity.

"The Metal Arts Company, one of America's finest manufacturing jewelers, i s makers of U. S. Cadets Insignia, the U. S. Congressional Rings; official jewelers for Fordham University, Fisk University, Meharry Medical College, Lane College, A. & I. State College, Central High School, Louisville, Ky.; Wiley College, Dillard University, Southern University, Pearl High School, Nashville; Howard High School, Chattanooga and many other schools and colleges.

It is fitting and proper to say that the Metal Arts Company is celebrating its 26th year in the industry and solicits the patronage of Negro schools, colleges, lodges, churches, fraternities, and sororities through a well train. ed corps of Negro salesmen. A company that practices fair play, with no discrimination in any phase of its business regardless of race, creed or color.

NEW FIELD Continued From Page 7 Greek-letter organizations alone. These facts, coupled with his knowledge of salesmanship, led him to write several manufacturers of jewelries. This was the beginning of a "New Frontier of Employment" for trained, young Negro men.

Quoting from a signed article by Brother Allen in the February, 1939 edition of "The National Educational Outlook," he said, in part:â&#x20AC;&#x201D; "Out of more than 30 or 40 replies, all of which took the stand that they had a well trained staff of college trained salesmen and, even though they did a lot of Negro business, they did not see a necessity of changing their present force just to give a Negro a job. Some of the answers were, "if you are able to finance yourself in traveling from town to town, soliciting business, we will be willing to supply your customers," This was just another nice way of saying that Negro employment was not wanted, for one can well understand what it would mean to finance such a business."

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Memphis, Tenn.

Since 1903 Makers Of

QUALITY CLOTHES Write Today For Samples Of Our New Fall and Winter Lines. Expert Tailors, Make Suits To Order!

A HOUSE WITH A NATIONAL REPUTATION

THE

August, 1939

Nu Lambda

Chapter

To The Brothers in Alphadom throughout the World, Greetings: That those who sit in darkness might see a great light seems to be the great motivating purpose in the lives of the Brothers in Nu Lambda, during recent months. For the dominant activity of the Brothers has been that of extending their influence into many fields of interest and among persons, many of whom are far removed from college life. As servants of all should we not transcend all ?

Not one of us has been more conspicuous in this line of endeavor than Brother John M. Gandy, president of the college. From February 26 to March 2, Brother Gandy attended the Association of American School Administrators in Cleveland, Ohio, where he contributed his views on the Gaines Case and the Supreme Court in a series of meetings on the subject. Because of his interest in the people of the State he was appointed Chairman of the Committee on Special Negro Aspects of the Marginal Populatisn Problem. Accompanied by Brother Harry W. Roberts, Head of the Department of Sociology, he attended on March 31, the meeting of the Marginal Population Committee of the State Planning Board in Richmond, o

Alpha Eta Lambda

Pew 39

Alpha Xi Lambda

Chapter

TOLEDO, OHIO

ETTRICK, VA.

,

SPHINX

Chapter

PRAIRIE VIEW, TEXAS Dear Brothers in Alpha: Now that the summer has arrived, Alpha Eta Lambda chapter has turned its attention to activities appropriate to the season. These activities got under way early in July with a Beach Party at Galveston, attended by the brothers, their wives and sweethearts. Coming together as a body to Houston, a motorcade of Prairie View and Houston brothers and their guests wended their way to the scene of the outing just after nightfall. Nature provided a perfect night for such an event—warm and clear with a typical Texas moon; and the Island City provided one of the finest beaches to be found anywhere along the Gulf Coast. Supper and breakfast were served on the sands while gentle music of the surf made an ideal natural orchestra for the occasion. All were agreed that it was a delightful and memorable nocturnal outing.

Congratulations and felicitations are due brother Allen E. Norton, who has recently entered the happy state of matrimony. Brother Norton has taken as his bride Miss Frances Ellison, the talented and charming daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Ellison of Houston. Miss Ellison is a graduate of Prairie View, class of 1939, where she made quite a reputation for herself as a leader in student activities and as a musician. Here's wishing for Brother and Mrs. Norton a perpetual honeymoon.

Members of Alpha Eta Lambda who have thus far expressed their intention of attending the New York Convention in August are Brothers G. L. Harrison, F . A. Jackson, and the undersigned. It is expected that this number may be increased before the convention is called to order. We are hoping to see many new brothers and renew many old acquaintances there. Until which time, au revoir.

George W. Morton, Chapter Editor.

Greetings Brothers in Alpha: Having been absent from this publication a year, t think it would be well to declare ourselves alive. We now operate under the following regime:—Brother Victor English, President; Brother Emerson Bush, Vice-President; Brother Harold C. Strickland, Secretary; Brother Joseph Doneghy, Treasurer; and Brother Charles Doneghy, Assistant Secretary and Associate Editor to Sphinx.

These men are all students in the University of Toledo with the exceptions of Brother Bush, who is a pharmacist, and Brother J. Doneghy, who is a graduate and a probation officer in the city. During his vacation Brother Doneghy attends Chicago University working on his master's degree.

Last school term a number of our men were prominent in athletics about the University. Brother Bill Jones, who graduated in June was Director of Intramural Activities for the whole year. In track, Sphinxman Jake Chandler did us the honor of scoring the most points of any man on the track team and earning his letter. Brother English, a track man, did well also—earning his letter and out-pointing many of the squad members. Sphinxman Charles Peoples was unfortunate during the early track season, sustaining a leg injury which prevented him from earning his letter. These three are expected to return to the track squad and do great things next year. The University Brothers did very well, as was expected of them, in their scholastic work. Th e Sphinxmen, of which there are ten, did well also and promise to be good material for Alpha selection.

A successful Alpha-Sphinx smoker-meeting was held on June 17th in Brother English's home, the Sphinxmen doing the entertaining and serving. Summer activities between the two groups were planned. At this meeting our chapter voted to send Brother President Victor English as senior delegate and Brother Thomas as alternate delegate to the General Convention in New York this month.

Fraternally yours, CHARLES E. DONEGHY, o •

Psi Chapter PHILADELPHIA, PA. Greetings Brothers: Psi' Chapter, of Philadelphia, says to all Alpha men, hello! We of Psi, though inactive during the Summer months, are actively engaged in making plans for representation at the great Alpha Convention, in the great Metropolis, New York City.

Since the last issue, Psi has made some fine contributions to the wealth of Alpha scholarships. At the commencement exercises of Temple University, Psi was proud indeed as two of her noble brothers were recipients of the degree of Ed. D. The brothers receiving their Doctorates were: Brother James Duckey, and Brother Preston C. Johnson, a charter member of Psi, and former member of faculty of Bluefield St. Teachers College.

We look forward to that few weeks from now when we can join hands with the dear brothers, under the shadows of Grover Whalen's great carnival and sing praises of our great fraternity and the Alpha of Tomorrow.

Page 4ff

THE

SPHINX

August, 1939

THE SPHINX OFFICEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;ON FAMOUS BEALE STREET, MEMPHIS

Home of the Sphinx Magazine, official publication of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Brothers, when in Memphis, or passing through, always make this your headquarters.

Alpha Beta

Chapter

TALLADEGA COLLEGE DROTHERS of Alphadom: Greetings to all men of the fold. We are extending you our most sincere congratulations and bsst wishes for a successful past and a glorious future.

Alpha Beta has been well represented in all fields of activity in and around our school and community. In our efforts to be of some service, we were ever keeping high ami aloft the noble ideals and aims of our dear Fraternity.

The Banner of Alpha Phi Alpha has been well represented in the scholastic world, by two of our brothers, capturing the honors of "College Scholar", in their various fields of concentration. Brother Prince Edward Wilso'nj in History and Brother C. Louis Crocker in Chemistry. In the various other fields, laurels need be made to Brother William Andrew Jackson for receiving first place in the Annual Little Theatre playwriter contest, to Brother Sidney Harris for his splendid show on the gridiron.

Also Brother Jackson. Brother Albert Brown for his ability on the basketball court and the rest of the brothers, for establishing such a remarkable record around our fair institution in all activities.., We heartily Welcome Neophyte Brothers Sidney S. Harris, Brother Leon Samples, and Brother Richard A. Wilson.

We hope that these men will continue to carry on and maintain the principles and ideas they stand for.

Graduation, the "grim reaper," served us quite a blow.

We lost eight men; Brothers Herbert Peques, Edward Long, Prince Wilson, Stanley Ish, Ellis Toney, Wallace Moore, William Bryant and C. L. Crocker. The members of Alpha Beta congratulates all the brothers for successfully completing their requirements and wishes for each an everlastingly successful future.

We extend to all the graduating brothers our congratulations and wish for a very successful future.

It is the ever constant idea and ambition for the remaining men in Alpha Beta to carry on. Looking at the wonderful work that has been done and that ever feeling of pushing forward we are determined to go on.

We extended the bounds of our Sphinx Club by taking fourteen well meaning ambitious and well deserving Freshmen into the Fold. These men we know will prove of exceptional value to the Fraternity as a whole.

Here's wishing a very successful trip to the Conference, a pleasant and successful stay and return. Let us go with the determination to make this the greatest conference of the age, and return determined to make our chapter the Greatest in the Fold.

Fraternally, ERMAN W. EDGECOMBE, Corr. Secretary.

JOINS OMEGA CHAPTER DRO. Joseph R. Jones, who departed this life May 26, 1939, Charleston, West Virginia, was one of Alpha Iota Lambda's outstanding members and former chapter president. B r o t h e r Jones was a graduate of Howard University Medical School, and was p r o m i n e n t l y known in medical circles throughout the country. At the time of his passing, he was assistant in charge of health for the county schools, treasurer of the Charleston Business and Professional Men's Club, and ac- LATE DR. JOSEPH R. JONES tively engaged in the civic, social and political life of the community.

DEATH VISITS BETA ETA LAMBDA CHAPTER JLJANY youthful Oklahomans, with tear dimmed eyes, heard the final rites for Brother Alonza Bernard Williams, 28, who died Wednesday, July 12, 1939, at the family. residence, 1039 Northeast 7th Street, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, which was held at the Avery Chapel A. M. E. Church, Monday, July 17th, at 1 o'clock, with Rev. William David Miller delivering the eulcg'y.

Resolutions were offered by the church at large; he having served in the Sunday School and as President of the Allen Endeavor League, and by the Beta Eta Lambda Chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., which were read by Brother Lucius L. McGee. The obituary, characterizing the life and personality of the deceased, was read by Brother Lee Edward Lewis.

Honorary pallbearers were members of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraterity, Inc., who impressively rendered the fraternity hymn at the church.

Surviving Brother Williams are his wife, Mrs. Geraldine Armstrong Williams, mother and father, one brother, grandmother, a number of other relatives and a host of friends. Burial was at Trice Hill.

KENNETH LEE JONES, Associate Editor Sphinx.

FRATERNAL MEMORY Of all Brothers who have transferred

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Compliments of

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