The SPHINX | Winter 1958 | Volume 43 | Number 4 195804304

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Philadelphia PenhAifloahia

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DECEMBER

2 6 - 3 0 ,

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1958

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Some of the pages in this issue have sections cut out of them The best copy available was scanned

ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, Inc. General President: M Y L E S A . P A I G E , 1294 Carroll Street, Brooklyn Western Vice-President:

HAROLD

R. J O N E S , 2831

Southwestern Vice-President: T. W I N S T O N M i d - W e s t e r n Vice-President:

SPHINX STAFF

13, N e w York.

Ellsworth Street, Berkeley,

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

California W.

C O L E , Sr., M . Box 20, W i l e y C o l l e g e , Marshall, Texas

REV. C . A N D E R S O N

DAVIS,

200 Jones Street, Bluefield, W .

Va.

Eastern Vice-President: C H A R L E S A . B R O A D D U S , 34 Spring Street, Trenton 8, N e w Jersey Southern Vice-President: J A M E S

E. H U G E R ,

Bethune-Cookman

College,

Daytona

G e n e r a l Secretary: L A U R E N C E T. Y O U N G , SR., 4432 South Parkway, C h i c a g o General Treasurer: M E R E D I T H

G . F E R G U S O N , 925 Eleventh

Editor-in-Chief, T H E S P H I N X , W .

BARTON

Counsel: ERNEST

Historian: C H A R L E S

N.

MORIAL,

H . WESLEY,

Chairman, A u d i t C o m m i t t e e : W .

Sidney Jones,

15, III.

1821

Orleans

Avenue,

New

Orleans,

FUN EDITORIAL

La.

W.

W.

M c D o n a l d , 79 North O x f o r d

Walk,

5, N e w

York

James C . N e w m a n , M . O . Best B. H a l l , Arizona State College, Tempe, A r i i o n a Harold Jr.,

W.

Jordan,

1301 W .

Clark

Morehouse C o l l e g e , Street,

Urbana,

Atlanta,

Illinois

•

Georgia

•

• •

WESTERN— SOUTHERN—

MIDWESTERN—Frank

SOUTHWESTERN—Edward

L.

L.

Stanley,

Hanley,

Langston

University, Langston, Oklahoma.

J E W E L S — H e n r y A . Callis, 2306 E. Street, N . E. W a s h i n g t o n , D . C . ; G e o r g e B. Kelley, I - I 13th S f e e t , Troy, N . Y . ; Nathaniel A . Murray, 2151 W e s t 21st Street, Los Angeles 18, Calif. O M E G A : Charles H . C h a p m a n , Robert H . O g l e , Vertner W . Tandy, Eugene Kinckle Jones.

CHAIRMEN, SCOLARSHIP TIES—Lionel

AND

EDUCATIONAL

AUDIT

Avenue, Nashville,

J.

Hall,

5000

8

Hawkins, J r .

Fisk

Tennessee

Logan Circle

N. W .

Washington,

D. C .

ON

GENERAL

SECRETARY—

Sidney A . Jones, Jr., 100 N . LaSalle, C h i cago 2, Illinois R E C O M M E N D A T I O N S C O M M I T T E E — Lloyd H .

Williams, Sr. I 19 N . G r e e n w o o d Street, Tulsa, Oklahoma ELECTIONS

CONSTITUTION

COMMITTEE—John

ner, 4 2 4 6 W . N .

HUMAN H.

force,

Market

RELATIONS

Wesley,

Central

417 E. 47th Street, C h i c a g o ACHIEVEMENT A N D AWARDS Tolly

W.

Tulsa

Oklahoma AND

Harris,

W.

326

N.

CREDENTIALS

C.

Cyrus

Cannon,

COMMITTEE— Greenwood

St..

HOUSING

St., St. Louis,

Mo.

727

Wilber-

COMMITTEE—Raymond Palace

Bldg.

Minneapolis,

COMMITTEE—William

CO-CHAIRMAN ton,

Utica

OF

M.

THE

Alexan-

UNDERGRADUATE

COMMITTEE—Walter Institute

Junior

RELATIONS

O F THE

Utica,

Western.)

UNDERGRADUATE

C O M M I T T E E — Frank

Lanvale St., Baltimore, M d .

Midwestern

Washing-

College,

(Southern, Southwestern and

CO-CHAIRMAN

Ellis,

1929

(Eastern and

Region.)

GENERAL PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE . . .

NEW YORK, N. Y.—We are now anxiously looking forward to our 44th Annual General Convention to be held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, December 26th to 30th, 1958. Most elaborate plans have been made by the General Convention Committee and this will be one of the greatest in Alpha history. I hope that every brother who can will attend and enjoy the proceedings and entertainment.

However, I am most anxious that this shall be the most fruitful convention in our annals. This means that the delegates in particular must go to Philadelphia properly prepared to represent their chapters. There will be very important questions to be

Young, A.

Gloster,

Charles

Whetstone,

Myles

Richie.

M.

Wesley,

J.

Saunders

Paige,

Robert

F.

EDITORS—Samuel

Harold

P.

DeBose,

R. Jones, T. Winston C o l e , Sr.

Charles A. Broaddus, James E. H u g e r , C . Anderson

Davis, John H o p e

Frank-

lin, Alonzo G . M o r o n , Ramon Scruggs, Lionel H . Newsom, Stephen J . W r i g h t , Charles V. W i l l i e , CONTRIBUTING J.

Carey,

Clark,

L. H o w a r d

EDITORS —

J. M.

Ellison,

Miles G r a h a m ,

Bennett.

Archibald

Felton

Rayford

Belford Lawson, W a y m a n W a r d , Atwood, mons, Brown,

Charles

Robert

J.

William

Stanley, J .

F.

Rupert

Rufus

Lane, John

Anthony, H.

G.

Logan,

Hale, Picott,

Sim-

Oscar

C.

Frank

L.

A.

Maceo

A. Smith.

COMMITTEE—Charles State College,

der, 4272 Washington Avenue, St. Louis, M o .

W. COMMITTEE—

Buck-

Minnesota

Miss.

15, III.

D.

Ohio

RELATIONS

COMMITTEE—Bindley

COMMITTEE—

Aaron Brown, 1468 President Street, Brooklyn,

REORGANIZATION

COMMITTEE

RULES

Andrew J . Lewis, III 525 Tatnall St., A t l a n t a , Georgia

New York

Pa.

P U B L I C P O L I C Y C O M M I T T E E — B e l f o r d V . Lawson, Jr.

COMMITTEES

STANDARDS A N D EXTENSION

Philadelphia,

C O M M I T T E E — W . D.

University,

ACTIVI-

H . Newsom, Southern University

Baton Rouge, Louisiana B U D G E T C O M M I T T E E — Kermit Woodland

STANDING

Hugh

Custis.

STAFF

Brooklyn

EDITOR

—

W.

Wesley

Redding,

Avenue, Philadelphia 43, Pa.

A S S I S T A N T VICE-PRESIDENTS EASTERN—John

Jeffries

Hall

ASSISTANT—Oscar

ASSISTANTS Thomas

Ohio

D. H A W K I N S , JR., Fisk University, Nashville 8, Tenn.

C h a i r m a n , Budget C o m m i t t e e : K E R M I T J . H A L L , 5000 W o o d l a n d

Jr. EDITORS

O . Wilson Winters

University, Baton Rouge, La.

Central State C o l l e g e , W i l b e r f o r c e ,

Leroy

Kermit

Ave., N o r t h , Nashville 8, Tenn.

Southern

Beatty,

MANAGING

Fla.

BEATTY, 14 East 28th Street, N e w York, N . Y .

Director of Educational Activities: L I O N E L H . N E W S O M , General

Beach,

Barton

ASSISTANT

voted upon. Your chapter should instruct its delegates in advance. You have a thorough and extensive report of the Committee on Public Policy.

Study it and the recommendations. We will have the report of the Commission on Re-organization of the Fraternity; the Undergraduate Housing; Financing and Group Insurance; the old matter of Reclamation; Undergraduate Program; summer versus winter conventions; whether to return to the old method of election of General President at the General Convention rather than by mail ballots.

I have been immensely gratified by the large number of new graduate chapters, showing revived interest in

old brothers, but discouraged by the activities in some of our undergraduate chapters as well as the apathy in some of our graduate chapters.

Alpha has developed new life and determination to resume its position in the leadership of the fraternal world. Each chapter is obligated to furnish and advise its delegates with the recommendations; and instruct them as to the desires of its members on each question.

You should have before you the recommendations of your Regional Convention. Can we organize these Regionals to be a rallying place for meetings and discussions by the many who cannot attend our National Conventions? Sufficient time and consideration should be given there to all the matters to come before the national convention for final decision.

This will not be a "bossed" Convention, but time must of necessity be limited. College men do not need much of the talk that some may want to expound from the rostrum or the floor of the Convention. This will be a business convention in session and let us conduct ourselves and our discussions accordingly.

This will be an Alpha Convention where every man shall be considered without special favor or prejudice toward any. We will labor together for the glory of Alpha.

(Continued on Page 3)

7ke Sphinx Official

Organ

of

Phi

Alpha

Fraternity,

Incorporated

DECEMBER, 1958

VOLUME XLIII

rr/erni

Alpha

NUMBER 4

k^hriitmas

GOD'S G I F T OF HIS SON Matt. 2:1-11; Luke 2:7-11

By Brother J. M. Ellison Chancellor Virginia Union University Introduction: RICHMOND, VIRGINIA.— Beautiful and instructive is the story of the birth of the Savior of mankind. His advent dramatizes the fullness of God's heart of love. The picture has in it many significant events. They all tell a dramatic story. Wise men are led to his birth place by a star. They come to honor the infant Messiah. They worship Him and present gifts to him.

A light from heaven seems to shine upon the Lord Jesus—the babe of Bethlehem. What a wonderful picture, the center of which is Christ!

The evangelists outline a portrait which will repay patient and sympathetic study. In the dark background appears Herod's evil face. But the light of God's face is sufficient to dispel all the world's shadows. Jesus is the light of the world.

I. The Errand of the Wise Men Imagination has delighted to add to the sacred narrative. Tradition makes the wise men three in number, representative of the periods of life; one ruddy, beardless youth, another in the prime of life, the third hoary with age.

Real knowledge, however, is limited to this—that they were "magi from the East." Magi was the name given by the Babylonians, Persians, and others, to the learned priestly class. The wise men believed that human affairs are controlled by the heavenly bodies. An extraordinary appearance in the sky was supposed to indicate some remarkable event in human history.

DECEMBER, 1958

Ancient historians declare that the J e w i s h Messianic expectation was widespread and shared by many peoples. The wise men thought the "Star" announced the birth of this expected king of the Jews. They represented the Gentile world, which no less than Israel, was in need for a great deliverer.

By astrology they sought to discover the divine purposes. That is to say, these m e n studied the stars. God brought them to the light of the world.

He satisfied their half-conscious desires and permitted them to behold him who was to bring salvation to the Gentiles.

Doubtless they were granted the privilege which the devout Simeon enjoyed, because like him, they had come to recognize the need of humanity for some new uplifting force. Simeon was "looking for the consolation of Israel."

II. The Dark Shadow of Herod's Face Even across the Savior's infancy fell the black shadow of human sin. Herod's guilty heart was troubled by the

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inquiry of the wise men. He himself, an alien had no right to the throne of David. He was ever haunted by fear lest he be overthrown. His jealousy of possible rivals had already made his palace crimson with the blood of his kindred. This is the penalty every evil doer suffers; God gives him up to further evil doing. Now, in his old age he would, if possible, anticipate the fury of the Jewish mob that cried, "Crucify Him! Crucify Him!" But in order to accomplish his wicked purpose he hid it and feigned to be in sympathy with the wise men.

"Bring me word, that I also may come and worship him." It is seldom that a mask of devoutness covers a face distorted with evil. Herod has his disciples; there are people who use religious occasions to further their own selfish ends. There are politicians that avow profound regard for the public welfare and then barter that welfare for their own gain.

(Continued on Page 3)

Publication Office: 4432 South Parkway. Chicago 15, III. Address all news matter to Editor-in-Chief: W. BARTON BEATTY, JR. 14 East 28th Street, New York, N. Y. SUBSCRIPTION PRICE — $2.00 PER YEAR

Published four times a year, in February, May, October, and December. Entered as second class matter at the Post Office at Chicago, Illinois, under the Act of March 3, 1879.

Acceptance for mailing at a special rate of postage provided for in Sec. 1102, Act of October 3, 1917.

Individual chapters will be billed for cost of engraving pictures submitted and used.

PAGE 1

L-JW Liraduate

Chapter

[^resident

Speaks

. . .

Brother Spencer E. Turner, Delta Gamma Lambda Chapter CINCINNATI, OHIO. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Among some of our graduate chapters there is a dreadful malady known as "complacency" that is slowly taking root. This sickness can be as destructive as a "malignant tumor" if permitted to grow without immediate treatment. If we are not careful "complacency" may cause the ultimate dissolution of our chapter. I do not like to talk or think in this manner, but I feel this is a cause that warrants alarm!!

My chapter is no exception! During my years in the chapter, I have observed this malady gradually take root.

The "faithful few" are working to protect and uphold the cherished ideals of Alpha Phi Alpha. Each administration is charged or accused of "lack of program" or "no program" yet when a program is planned, many brothers are conspicious by their absence. There is much lip service but very little action. There are numerous complaints about committee assignments, nevertheless, when the responsibility is given the follow-up is very poor. There are some who will not accept jobs that are without "glamour or prestige." In this City Alpha men can be found in many of the responsible positions, yet they contribute little or no time to the program of the Chapter. We need to ben-

efit from the thinking and planning that enabled them to achieve prominence. Then we have big men who do little things so in essence they too, are little. It is my job as president of this chapter to be aware of these problems and to present a program of action that will keep my chapter alert.

On the National level, I would like to suggest several programs that I believe would serve to re-vitalize our great fraternity. The first and I think to be the most important, is reclamation. A National Reclamation Month, with suggested program for graduate chapters, would be the answer to this most important problem. The logical months would be January, February or March. The Office of the Secretary would award certificates of Recognition and Merit to those Chapters reaching a definite quota.

We should have a National Fund Raising Project. A g r e a t deal of thought should be given to this matter in the light of the Universities and their requirements for housing on the campus.

I would like to see our National Educational Program intensified. We are not reaching the high school seniors.

It would be appalling if the figures were known as to the number of "drop

outs" among the young people in our high schools today. Our entire Scholarship and Housing programs should be re-examined and simplified.

Founder's Day Programs should be emphasized and made a must to all chapters.

I am cognizant that these programs exist to a certain degree in many chapters. I am suggesting that these programs be made a part of the National Program and each chapter be held responsible for its promotion. I think the National body should exert more control over chapter programs. I favor a monthly newsletter for every chapter from the Office of the Secretary.

The future of our fraternity lies in our undergraduates, yet it appears as if we have forgotten them or the time of our undergraduate days. In planning for our General Conventions, we have changed to the large beautiful expensive hotels for our entire program.

How many of us during our undergraduate years could afford to travel, register, and reside in a Hilton or Sheraton Hotel? The undergraduate housing program leaves much to be desired.

The Housing Committee should set up (Continued on Page 3)

NATIONAL OFFICERS PRESENT FOR RECENT H O U S I N G AND BUDGET MEETINGS (Left to right)â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Brothers Ernest Morial, General Counsel; L. T. Young, General Secretary; M. G. Ferguson, General Treasurer; Lionel Newsome, Director Educational Activities; Myles A. Paige, General President; Kermit J. Hall, Comptroller; W . D. Hawkins, Jr., Auditor.

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THE SPHINX

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Graduate Chapter (Continued from Page 2)

the necessary papers, requirements, conditions, etc., and authorize the local chapter nearest the City or College Campus to act in their behalf. The entire matter of undergraduate and graduate chapters should be carefully reviewed.

We, as Alpha men, on the local as well as the national scene, "must fall back and re-group" or as it is more frequently stated, must "re-examine and re-evaluate ourselves" so as to keep "the torch of Alpha Phi Alpha forever aloof". We must become aware of this disease that is creeping upon us, and not let ourselves get into "doldrum" and become callous. As long as I am President (and I am writing these "words of wisdom" on the eve of the elections) I shall try to make my brothers aware of this sickness and try to present a program that will perpetuate the very life of our great Fraternity.

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Gods Gift Of His Son

(Continued from Page 1) Christ is the touchstone of human character. In one, His presence kindles lofty purpose and brings to light latent nobilities. In another, whose heart is hard and selfish, His presence may intensify evil desires. The wise men welcomed the new King as God's precious gift. They paid Him homage with their gifts. Herod was troubled

by His advent and sought to slay Him. None understood Christ then as we may now. To refuse allegiance to Him is to acknowledge spiritual kindship with Herod.

III. The Christ We Adore It was only an helpless babe in his mother's arms that met the wise men's gaze. What was he that they should bow in reverence before him? Every new human soul is a messenger from God, a fresh inlet of divine love, another medium through which God reveals himself. Who can see the innocence, the joyful trust, the sweet simplicity of early childhood without recognizing the truth that "of such is the Kingdom of Heaven?" Alas, that ever the heavenly glory which encircles the child-life should be darkened by the earth-clouds of sin!

It is natural and fitting that we observe the birthdays of our loved ones.

To give them presents it to say, "I am DECEMBER, 1958

The 1958 Convention Call To All Brothers In Alpha Phi Alpha Greetings: In compliance with Article VII, Sections I, 2 and 3 of the Constitution of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, and as your General President I hereby issue the official call for all Alpha men to assemble in the Sheraton Hotel, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, December 27-31, 1958 for the purpose of conducting the business of our great Fraternity through the 44th General Convention.

Our 43rd General Convention held in Los Angeles, California, August 21-24, 1957 was a summer convention and by scheduling meant that the business of the 44th General Convention would cover unfinished business of 1957 and the full business of 1958. In other words the 44th General Convention will consider the Fraternity's program, business and other unfinished matters encompassing an 18 month period.

All things possible are being done by the three (3) local chapters in Philadelphia to make this 44th convention one of the greatest conventions in the history of Alpha Phi Alpha, Incorporated.

Fraternally yours, MYLES A . PAIGE General President

glad that you are here." But there is one birthday, the celebration of which is wider than the limits of any family, nation or race. Around the world there are those who rejoice upon Christmas Day and call to mind the beginning of the human life who was indeed a messenger from God, who came to earth "trailing clouds of glory." He came as God's supreme gift to humanity. In Christ we see that ideal toward which we are bound ever to strive.

Conclusion: The great lesson of the gift of Christ to our world is that God is in humanity. This we know because of Him whose birthday Christmas celebrates.

We honor the birthdays of our friends by gifts to them. They are tokens of our love. The heart goes with them, else they are meaningless. What shall we give to Christ on His birthday? The wise men opened their treasures and offered unto Him gold and frankincense and myrrh. Shall we set apart for Him a portion of our money? Yes, but only as a sign that all our money is His, and that we shall use it all for Him. Shall we devote to him a portion of our time? Yes, but only as a sign that all our time is His, and that we shall spend it in His service. This ii the gift we will bring Him on His birthday—even ourselves, the gold of all our posesssions and talents, the frankincense of our hearts' richest devotion, the myrrh of our self-sacrificing toils and pains. This is the best cele-

bration of Christmas, to give to Christ ourselves. This is the birthday gift He desires from us, even ourselves.

Prayer: O heart of God, humbly we bow at Thy lowly manger, bringing the treasures of our hearts. We seek what others do not see and hope for, things unborn because they are held in secret stedfastness by a light that goes before.

Grant, O Lord, that we may learn a holier wisdom than even the stars can teach, and worship Thee when hearts that love are made glad. For His sake and His Spirit, we pray. Amen.

•

President's Message

(Continued from Cover Page) Serious consideration must be given to our national program. Are we going far enough or too far in extending our program to the many general problems of the race and the nation—integration and citizenship at the polls? Shall we reaffiliate with the American Council on Human Rights or other such organizations?

Of great concern is our educational program. Should our scholarships be more confined to our needy undergraduates and their programs?

My Brothers, these are the years of destiny and "our web of fate we spin."

Come to Philadelphia and make this the greatest Convention of all.

Fraternally, MYLES A. PAIGE General President PAGE 3

PtPftam

FORTY-FOURTH

GENERAL

CONVENTION

Alpija p|t Alpfja Jraterttttij, Inr. December 2 6 - 3 0 , 1958

«• HOTEL SHERATON

PRE-CONVENTION Friday, December 26, 1958 1:00 P.M. REGISTRATION — Delaware Valley Suite, Rooms A and B 3:00 P.M. MEMBERSHIP MEETING — Alpha Building Foundation, Inc. — Independence Room 6:00 P.M. EXECUTIVE C O U N C I L MEETING A N D DINNER — Constitution Room 10:00 P.M. A L P H A SMOKER — Hall of Flags GENERAL C O N V E N T I O N Saturday, December 27, 1958 9:00 A . M . REGISTRATION — Delaware Valley Suite, Rooms A and B 10:30 A . M . FIRST BUSINESS SESSION — Pennsylvania Room Presiding — Brother Kermit J . Hall, General Convention Chairman Invocation—Brother Daniel J . W i n g e , Chaplin, Zeta Omicron Lambda Welcome on Behalf of Host Chaptes: Psi Chapter—Bother Leroy Colquitt, President Rho Chapter—Brother R. Allan Durrant, President Zeta Omicron Chapter—Brother Robert E. Moose, President Responses: General President—Brother Myles A . Paige Representing Vice Presidents — Brother James E. Huger Presentation of Jewels, General Officers and C o m mittee Chairman—Brother Myles A . Paige Appointment of Contention Committees and Officers —General President, Brother Myles A . Paige Report of Committee on Rules and Credentials — Brother Andrew J . Lewis, III, Chairman Announcements — Brother Kermit J . Hall General Convention Chairman 11:30 A . M . Memorial Services — Brother A . W a y m a n W a r d , Xi Lambda 12:00 Noon Keynote Address—Brother Sidney A . Jones, Jr., Former A c t i n g General Secretary and Chairman, Committee on General Secretary 12:30 P.M. Adjournment SATURDAY, DECEMBER 27, 1958 1:30 P.M. SECOND BUSINESS SESSION — Pennsylvania Room Presiding—Brother Charles A . Broaddus, Eastern Vice President Invocation—Brother Daniel J . Winge, Chaplain Zeta Omicron Lambda Chapter 1:40 P.M. General President's Address—Brother Myles A . Paige 2:10 P.M. Reports of Regional Vice Presidents and Assistants: Western—Brother Harold R. Jones Midwestern-—Brother C. Anderson Davis Southern—Brother James E. Huger Southwestern—Brother T. Winston Cole, Sr. Eastern—Brother Charles A . Broaddus 3:00 P.M. Reports of General Officers:

PAGE 4

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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

General Secretary—Brother Laurence T. Young General Treasurer—Brother Meredith G . Ferguson Editor of the Sphinx—Brother W . Barton Beatty, Jr. Director of Education—Brother Lionel H. Newsom Preliminary Budget—Brother Kermit J . Hall General Counsel—Brother Ernest N. Morial Historian—Brother Charles H. Wesley Auditor—Brother W . D. Hawkins, Jr..

Announcements—Brother Kermit J . Hal, General Convention Chairman 5:00 P.M. Adjournment 9:00 P.M. A L P H A CABARET (Formal) — SHERATON GRAND BALLROOM SUNDAY, DECEMBER 28, 1958 10:00 A . M . REGISTRATION — Delaware Valley Suite, Rooms A and B 10:00 A . M . COMMITTEE MEETINGS A . Budget Hearings Room 534 B. Recommendations Room 537 C . Standards and Extensions Room 531 D. Reorganization Room 528 E. Undergraduate Housing Room 533 F. Constitution Room 526 G . General Secretary Room 524 H. Election Commission Room 525 I. Committee on Awards Room 538 J . Public Policy and Program Room 527 K. Convention Secretarial Staff Room 530 L. Convention Secretary Room 541 M . General President's O f f i c e Room 545 N. General Convention Chairman's O f f i c e Room 547 O . Press O f f i c e Room 540 P. Convention Finance Committee Room 522 Q . Hospitality Lounge Connie Mack Room R. Ladies' Lounge Room 546 S. General Secretary's Office Room 548 2:30 P.M. PUBLIC MEETING—IRVINE A U D I T O R I U M —UNIVERSITY O F PENNSYLVANIA — Brother O .

Wilson Winters, Chairman President—Brother Myles A . Paige, General President National Anthem Invocation)—Brother Richard T. S. Brown Introduction Mayor of Philadelphia—Brother Raymond Pace Alexander Greetings: Honorable Richardson Dilworth Pan-Hellenic Organization Musical Selections Presentation of Jewels, General Officers and C o m mittee Chairman—Brother O. Wilson Winters Introduction of Speaker — Brother Walter L. Gordon Address — Brother Thurgood Marshall, Special Counsel, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People Presentation of Alpha A w a r d of Merit—Brother Myles A . Paige Announcements — Brother Kermit J . Hall, General Convention Chairman Fraternal Hymn Benediction—Brother A . Wayman W a r d , Lambda

THE SPHINX

Prcyram (ccHtiHued) M O N D A Y , DECEMBER 29, 1958 9:00 A . M . THIRD BUSINESS SESSION—East Ballroom Presiding—Brother C . Anderson Davis, Mid-Western Vice President Invocation—Brother Richard T. S. Brown 9:10 A . M . Reports of Committees: Standards and Extension — Brother Aaron Brown, Chairman Election Commission —Brother Bendley C. Cyrus, Chairman Undergraduate Housing—Brother William Alexander Human Relations—Brother Frank L. Stanley, Sr. Reorganization Commission — Brother Raymond Cannon Committee on General Secretary—Brother Sidney A .

Jones, Jr. Announcements—Brother R. Allan Durrant, Assistant General Convention Chairman 11:45 A . M .

Adjournment

12:00 Noon A L P H A L U N C H E O N A N D UNDERGRADUATE SESSION—Pennsylvania Room ( C O N V E N T I O N PICTURE) Presiding — Brother Harold W . Jordan, Assistant Southern Vice President Invocation—Brother C. Anderson Davis 12:10 P.M. Introduction of Undergraduate Speaker — Brother John W . McDonald, Assistant Eastern Vice President Undergraduate Address—Brother James C. Newman, Assistant Western Vice President Musical Selection 12:30 P.M. Introduction of Jewel Hen,ry A . Callis — Brother Edward L. Hanley, Assistant Southwestern Vice President Fraternal Address: Jewel Henry A . Callis 1.00 P.M. Alpha Hymn — Brothers Charles Scott and James East, Leaders Announcements—Brother R. Allan Durrani, Assistant General Convention Chairman 1:15 P.M.

Adjournment

2:00 P.M. FOURTH BUSINESS SESSION—West Pennsylvania Room Presiding—Brother T. Winston Cole, Southwestern Vice President Report of Committees Continued: Committee on Constitution — Brother John D. Buckner Public Policy and Program — Brother Belford V. Lawson, Jr. 3:00 P.M. W O R K S H O P SESSIONS Workshop I Undergraduate Relations and Problems —Constitution Room Leaders: Brothers Frank Ellis and W a l t e r Washington Workshop II National Program of Alpha Phi Alpha —Independence Room Leader: Brother Belford V. Lawson, Jr. 5:00 P.M.

Adjournment

9:00 P.M. Interfraternal Reception (Formal) — Philadelphia Museum of A r t , 26th and the Parkway

DECEMBER, 1958

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 1958 9:00 A . M . FIFTH BUSINESS SESSION — Pennsylvania Room Presiding — Brother JamesE. Huger, Southern Vice President Invocation—Brother A. Wayne W a r d Committee Reports: Audit—Brother W . D. Hawkins, Jr. Chairman Final Budget Report — Brother Kermit J . Hall, Chairman Nomination of General Officers Announcements — Brother Kermit J . Hall, General Convention Chairman I 1:45 A . M . Adjournment 12:00 Noon V O T I N G POLLS OPEN — Delaware Valley Suite, Room D 2:00 P.M. FINAL Business Session—Pennsylvania Room Presiding — Brother Harold R. Jones, Western Vice President Reports: Workshops: I Undergraduate Relations and Problems— Brother Frank L. Stanley, Jr. II National Program of Alpha Phi A l p h a — Brother Clifton R. Jones Committee on Time and Place for the 1959 Convention—Brother J . Rupert Picott, Chairman Committee on Awards—Brother Tolley W . Harris Recommendations — Brother Lloyd H. Williams, Sr., Chairman Report of Election Commission—Brother Bradley C. Cyrus, Chairman Other Special Committee Reports Announcements — Brother Kermit J . Hall, General Convention Chairman 5:00 P.M. Adjournment 6:00 P.M. Cocktail Reception—Pennsylvania Ballroom 7:00 P.M. Alpha Banquet (Formal) — Sheraton Grand Ballroom Presiding—Brother O . Wilson Winters, Toastmaster Invocation—Brother A . Wayman W a r d Introduction of General Officers—Brother Myles A .

Paige Installation of Officers for 1959—Brother Charles H. Wesley, Historian Introduction of Undergraduate Speaker—Brother William D. Coverdale, Jr. Undergraduate Address — Brother Leroy Colquitt, President, Psi Chapter Banquet Address—Brother Belford V. Lawson, Jr. Presentation of Awards—Brother Myles A . Paige A . Undergraduate Award B. Alpha A w a r d of Honor Closing Remarks — General President, Brother Myles A . Paige Announcements — Brother Kermit J . Hall, General Convention Chairman Alpha Hymn—Brothers Charles Scott and James East Benediction—Brother C . Anderson Davis 10:0 P.M.

A L P H A F O R M A L D A N C E — G r a n d Ballroom WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 1958

10:00 A . M . EXECUTIVE C O U N C I L M E E T I N G — Independence Room

PAGE 5

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ITS

GOING

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — "It's Going To Be Great In '58" is the slogan the General Convention Committee has been working under since it was decided that the Brothers would meet in the Quaker City.

"Great" is exactly the word for the welcome that will be forthcoming to men of Alpha when they convene at the Sheraton Hotel for the 44th annual convention.

Brother Charles Broaddus, Eastern Vice-President, and Brother Kermit J. Hall, chairman of the convention committee extend in the name of all Philadelphia Brothers greetings t o the Brothers and give them assurance that their stay in Philadelphia will be one to be remembered . . . Your families included.

The important considerations that will face the delegates and members during the business sessions are known to all Alphamen.

A number of special events will be of interest to the men and their ladies during their stay with us.

On Sunday, December 28, a great public meeting will be held at Irvine Auditorium on the campus of the University of Pennsylvania. Fraternity, state and city dignataries will participate in this important event. Brother Thurgood Marshall, head of the Legal Department of the NAACP will be the principal speaker. In these days of crisis in civil rights, the man who has truly marshalled the legal forces of democracy will be a person to hear.

During the program the fraternity Achievement award will be presented to a personage of national prominence.

A program of special interest to the ladies, in addition to the brilliant entertainment being planned by local auxiliaries, will be the reception Monday evening at the Philadelphia Art Museum given by the Inter-Greek Council. Brother William E. Griffin is chairman of the active group, and it has given him and all Brothers a warm feeling to see the interest displayed by the sororities and fraternities in this program to welcome A Phi A. The Art Museum, setting high at the head of the Parkway, is one of the most beautiful buildings in the nation. In the classic Greek style, it houses a great collection of art.

PAGE 6

TO

BE

GREAT!! tr

The convention business and social program is generally known. For the early comers to Philadelphia two items.

On Friday, December 26 there will be an old-fashioned smoker for the firstcomers. It will be a relaxed evening of pleasure and fellowship.

On the same evening the Philadelphia Cotillion Society will present its tenth annual fantasia, "Island of Fire" at the Convention Hall. This brilliant display of pageantry and talent by young people is a "must" for visitors to the city. The honoree of the Society to receive the Diamond Cross of Malta is Mrs. Daisy Bates of Little Rock., Ark. Brother Turner C. Johnson, Jr., chairman of the Entertainment committee, promises the smoker Friday, and the cabaret Saturday evening will be tops. Brother Johnson, a member of the Medical Staff of Mercy—Douglass

CONVENTION

Hospital, and his committee have been working hard on these projects.

The same degree of excellence is pledged by Brothers R. Allen Durrant and Robert Moose, for the banquet and dance Tuesday evening.

Streamlined registration techniques, hospitality booths at the railroad stations and the airport, will make it easy and convenient for Brothers and their families to "sign in."

Besides the formal aspects of convention procedures many of the local Brothers are planning to entertain their friends in their own homes; other Philadelphians are looking forward to greeting their friends from out of town.

It's going to be just that — "Great In '58".

S^eaSoni

Ljreetinai

HEADQUARTERS

NEW SHERATON HOTEL Philadelphia, Pa. Make Hotel Reservation Early — Tear Out and Mail To Lloyd B. Carswell, General Manager SHERATON HOTEL 1725 Pennsylvania Blvd.

Philadelphia 3, Pa.

SHERATON - PHILADELDHIA Single Rooms

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Television and Radio in Every Room.

Date

A.M. P.M.

Arriving

Date Departure

Address

City

_

For further information regarding

State

housing accommodations

write to

Brother Norris Durham, Chairman Housing Committee 1421 No. 58th Street — Philadelphia, Pa.

THE SPHINX

ilHakina

\-Jur 44th-

By the General Secretary Brother Laurence T. Young WHAT IS A CONVENTION? A convention is a body of delegates, or representatives periodically convened for a common purpose. WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF A CONVENTION? The purpose of a convention is to arrive at a general agreement as the basis of any custom or usage which has as it's sanction in customs and usages. WHAT ARE THE DUTIES OF DELEGATES AT A CONVENTION? The duties of delegates at a convention are to actively participate in all proceedings; to have in their minds the purpose of the organization they represent, and to let nothing or nobody interfere with the prosecution of such purpose.

(general

(convention

NOW, — in order for us, as Alpha Phi Alpha men to fulfil our duties at this 44th General Convention, we MUST hold aloft in our minds these premises, which can only lead to the one conclusion, viz, the advancement of Alpha Phi Alpha.

It is quite necessary that we, as delegates, or just members of the convention, place some stress on the social aspect attached thereto, — BUT, that is not the purpose of the convention, — BROTHERS, let's not fail to see the forest for the trees. The social activities serve as a "break", a relief against the rigors of the many business sessions, and NOT AS A SUBSTITUTE. At these business sessions, the future of Alpha Phi Alpha, though chal-

REGISTER NOW AND SAVE TIME AT THE CONVENTION 1. Complete Registration Form and mail to Brother William H. Brown III, Chairman of Registration Committee, 410 S. 15th Street, Philadelphia 46, Pennsylvania.

2.

Registration Fees: Undergraduate $10.00; Intermediate and Graduate $15.00. vation for Banquet Guest $6.00 each.

Reser-

3. Brothers registering in advance will find Convention Kits prepared and ready for them upon arrival.

4. Make checks payable to 44th General Convention Committee.

IfvleaninaPul

.

lenged, is being guided,—our obligations and vows are renewed;—our purpose is being re-defined in keeping with our present day economic structure. — So, our delegates are to answer these challenges, our "raison d' etre", and thereby justify and fortify us.

Let's put "teeth" in our well geared machinery, and let all the nation realize that Alpha Phi Alpha is a force to be considered, and is an integral part of the whole.

Let's merit the "break", the social activities to be had in conjunction with the occasion, and not instead of, — and let us leave every business sessiqji, and finally leave the Convention having attended all the business sessions, with the words of St. Paul ringing in our ears; "I have fought a good fight; I ha^ve nished the race; I have kept the faith."

IMPORTANT COMMITTEES MEET AT NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS: National Headquarters of Alpha Phi Alpha, in Chicago, Illinois, was the scene of four important Committee meetings November 7, 8 and 9, 1958: The CONVENTION COMMITTEE, the COMMITTEE ON BUDGET and FINANCE, — Kermit J. Hall, Chairman; The Reorganization Committee, Raymond W. Cannon, Chairman and the Alpha Phi Alpha Building Foundation Committee, William M. Alexander, Chairman.

A first mortgage loan in the sum of $12,000.00 was a p p r o v e d by the Building Foundation Committee, for the benefit of Kappa Chapter, at the seat of Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, for the purchase of a fraternity house, on Fraternity row, thereat.

February Deadline Date

January 10, 1959 PAGE 7

FRATERNITY cJLookina Jrn

Li BROTHER O. WILSON WINTERS

Alpha Phi Alpha—Christmas 1958 — By the time you read this column it is possible and even probable that either you or both of us will be or shall have been at the 44th General Convention at Philadelphia.

My son, now 16 years old, taller than I by six inches, heavier by 20 pounds and deeper in voice by two octaves looks over my shuolder and asks how do I know anybody will read this column or am I talking to the editor who must read it to print it.

At any rate, yau can consider this article as the key to the city. You sometimes wonder why anyone would need the keys to a city — as "wide open" as some of them are.

But here we are and I think it my duty to help you enjoy the convention.

There are some things you should do and some things you should not do.

First of all don't leave Mama home; bring her along. It makes no difference whether or not you bought her that Mink stole you promised her. The Convention will be at the Sheraton Hotel and most everything will be right there, inside. A new Dior dress with the latest hemline length, a new girdle and close knit sweater will cause much more attention than Mink. However, if she just cannot make it this year, do not worry. The Hospitality Committee has created an escort b u r e a u unmatched in recent convention history.

There will be featured attractions in size, shape, height, depth, color, (color variations), personality, coquetry, profundity, and pleasing obesity. Escort assignments are binding for one day only. Repeating same assignments permitted. The committee assumes no responsibility for escort assignments not made by them. Don't give fictitious names, your date can read your name on your badge. And when and how.

PAGE 8

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you dance will disclose your marital status. But if Mama does come and desires a fling because you show measurements of 34-44-40 while she is still 34-24-38 like the middle page Jet magazine girls, we have a large assortment, a motley array of male escorts for her after you dance one duty dance you usually do at dances.

Don't buy picture cards from the fellows who approach you outside the hotel. There are no photographs of our escort girls. Indeed none like those being sold outside. Oh No! Ice breaking humor helps mightily at conventions. Sometimes it gets you bids to some of the late ritzy parties given by the social arbiters of a city.

Perhaps some of the following gems would please you: Confucius says—"He who thinks by the inch and talks by the yard should be moved by the foot." * * * Mother to high school son:—"How do you know he meant for you to see a mechanic?"

Son:—"He said I had a screw loose somewhere." * * *

FU (convention

Special — Too late for classification or (proofreading).

The Chamber of Commerce announces that your delegate badge will admit you to any of our golf coarses, hotells, horsepitals, p a w n shoppes, hare dressing, and other beauty saloons.

Our leading night clubs are currently featuring Ella Fitspatrick, Count Basin and the famous Duke Hellington.

I suppose by now you are expert in breaking the ice but it is that Stayhome brother about whom we are concerned. This convention will be historic. It will be a milestone in the progress of Alpha Phi Alpha for the brothers of Psi, Rho and Theta Omicron Lambda have worked hard to make it so. Not all Alpha will be in Philadelphia Christmas 1958. Some are in fraternal hibernation. But it will make us happy if the convention is graced by the presence of Brother Judge Edward Gourdin of Boston, Brothers Dr. Ira Davis and Richard Moore of Florida, Brother Lyman Johnson of Louisville and honor getting Brother Alex Galvin of Ithaca, among others.

carry forward phases.

Some Good In Arkansas PINE BLUFF, ARK.—Well, we're still here—and kicking, but high! We hope to augment the 1959 roster with some of the good delinquents floating in the ether around this chapter seat.

The 1958 roster: R. Frank Bryant; M. C. Burns; Harry L. Cross, Jr.; Earnest Deas; Geleve Grice; R. C. Haynie; George Howard, Jr.; Carl E. Hyman (in absentia); O. E. Jackson; Van W. Johnson; B. F. Lever; J. E. Marshall; J. F. McClellan; D. C. Parker; H. L. Parker; W. H. Phillips, Jr.; H. M. Proffitt; U. S. Reed; R. F. Russell; O. T. Shannon; C. D. Spearman; S. B. Toilette; A. W. Terry, Jr. (in absentia).

Committee chairman for the year now closing: Citizenship: Brother Howard; Constitution: Brother Russell; Membership: Brother H. L. Parker; Urogram-Social: Brother D. E. Parker.

Newcomers to the official family, 1959: Phillips, Corres, Secretary; Russell, Parliamentarian; Deas, Chaplain; Spearman, Sergeant-at-arms. Returned incumbents: McClellan, P r e s i d e n t ; Bryant, Vice-President; Jackson, Secretary and Assoc. Editor to the Sphinx; Cross, Treasurer.

We have just emerged from the

Autumn Ball which is now an established institution eagerly anticipated in the social life of the community, if we are to accept the comments of our guests at face value. The "Czars of Rhythm" were "right" for the occasion. The summer social this year was a "Splash Party." Though precautions were taken against inclement weather, Fair Nature smiled upon the occasion and those declining to frolic in the pool were able to participate in social games. A delicious barbecue culminated the evening's activity.

Two public meetings highlighted the activity of the Citizenship Committee —one prior to the summer primaries and one prior to the November general elections. They were highly successful as regards both attendance and participation. Naturally, many citizens want to know, "for whom and for what shall 1 vote?" We held firmly to a non-partisan "Voters' Information" meeting each time, but there is no doubt that virtually all in attendance were able to ascertain somehow the information they desired. Invitation was extended all candidates in primary elections to "come and tell their story," which, almost to a man, they did eagerly. This work we propose to

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in two

Fraternity Fun

(Continued from Page 8) spots before them? It serves you right, you should be here in Philadelphia.

You know the fellow who says you can't take it with you must never have tried to travel very far without it. But at a convention you forget these trivialities. You see, instead, the more interesting and educational side of fraternal life. You see the display of collegiate grandeur, you feel the pulsating emotions of fellow Greeks, you hear—yes I am sorry to say, you hear the same old points of order, unreadiness, personal privilege, viewing with alarm and pointing with pride. You listen to the matchless oratory and spontaneus wit of oft spoken speeches.

But it is Alpha, traditional Alpha that creates the comparative lure that nature imparts in the salmon that journeys back to the fountain head to spawn.

Welcome to Philadelphia, city of Brotherly Love. We promise parliamentary law, matchless oratory and spontaneus wit but we can't guarantee any spawning.

ALPHA PHI ALPHA BUILDING FOUNDATION COMMITTEE MEETS AT NATIONAL (Left to right.standing)— Brothers John M. Patton, Burt Mayberry, Sidney A. Jones, Jr., W .

permanently

HEADOUARTERS

E. Shortridge, William

M. Alexander, Chaiiman.

(Seated) — Brothers Lloyd H. Williams, Bindley C. Cyrus, Clayton F. Lee (undergraduate) Report of committees activities will appear in the February 1959 issue of the Sphinx Magaine by Past Presdent Frank L. Stanley.

PHILADELPHIA WELCOMES YOU!!

;'•

ft

INDEPENDENCE MALL—A new creation of the National Park system. Independence Hall in the foreground.

BETSY ROSS HOUSE—Where the first American flag was designed.

Five minutes from the Sheraton.

Ill

**mf ART MUSEUM—At the head of the Parkway, just about ten minutes drive from the Sheraton Hotel.

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