december 1964
' &rui4-
^.Iplja • |Jlji JVlplpt JiFratcrnttg, J\m DECEMBER
VOLUME L/4
1964
CONTENTS:
1
DECEMBER
. . SEASON OF LIGHT AND LOVE
ARTICLES 2 3 4 5 6 8 11
CHRISTMAS . . . AND WHAT IT MEANS TO ME A PROPOSAL BY THE NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE THE SECOND EMANCIPATION THE ROLE OF THE UNDERGRADUATE ADVISOR THE LOST SHEEP CONVENTION BANQUET ADDRESS A PHI A REORGANIZATION
DEPARTMENTS 7 10 12 12 13 14 19 22 31 32
FRAT FUN MUSING WITH THE POETS REFRESH YOUR MEMORY EDITORIALLY SPEAKING BOOKS CONVENTION ALPHA WORKSHOP CHAPTER ACTIVITIES BROTHERS IN THE ARMED FORCES OMEGA CHAPTER
C O V E R : Eventhough parents decorate the Christmas tree and place gifts and toys around it for the children, the occasion is as much joy for parents as it is for them. The smile and spark of joy in children's eyes and their general happiness bring great joy to everyone. There is Jean, Lois, Jimmy, Michael and Ophelia, all filled with the spirit of Christmas after a visit from Santa Claus. i^ou will note that Jimmy is holding the Alpha Insignia. Well, this is for a reason. Many Alpha fathers are disappointed because their sons fail to pledge Alpha. A sure way to avoid this heartbreaking disaster is to place the Alpha insignia under the Christmas tree. When your son rushes to the tree on Christmas morning, before he has a chance to pick up his toys, ease the Alpha insignia in his hands and flip on the lights; repeat these words: A Phi A, Kail Ma Za. This assures your wish - he cannot get around pledging Alpha once he reaches college. If you don't believe this, try and see. Let us know how you come out. - Smiles.
Organizing Editor, 1914: Raymond W. Cannon * * * EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: C. ANDERSON DAVIS THE SPHINX: P. O. BOX 1420, BLUEFIELD, W. VA. 24701
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PHONE 325-8777
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS: O. Wilson Winters, Laurence T. Young, Charles Wesley, Stenson E. Broaddus, Robert F. Custis, Charles A. Broaddus, Malvin R. Goode, J. M. Ellison, Belford V. Lawson, Lionel H. Newsom, Frank L. Stanley, Sr., A. Maceo Smith, T. Winston Cole, Kermit J. Hall, W. Barton Beatty, Maceo Hill, L. W. Jeffries, Martin L. Harvey, David A. Dowdy, Floyd Shepherd, Gus T. Ridgel, Samuel A. Madden, L. H. Stanton, Henry Crawford, (Staff Photographer). EDITORIAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE: J. Herbert King, J. E. Martin, Felix Warren, John H. Johnson, Samuel A. Madden, Frank Ellis, Malvin Goode, Marshall H a r ris, Moss H. Kendrix, T. Winston Cole, Lionel - H. Newsom, Belford V. Lawson, Laurence T. Young, Floyd Shepherd, Gus T. Ridgel, L. H. Stanton, Kermit J. Hall. The Sphinx is the magazine (Official Organ) of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., 4432 South Parkway, Chicago, 111. T. Winston Cole, President; Laurence T. Young, General Secretary; C. Anderson Davis, Editor; published four times a year, February, May, October and December. Copyright, 1964 by The Sphinx, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Subscription rate: $2.00 per year. •" Address all communications to The Sphinx, P. O. Box 1420, or 300,Sussex Street, Bluefield, W. Va. 24701. Entered as second-class matter at the Post Office at Bluefield, W. Va., under act of March 3, 1879. Acceptance for mailing at a special rate of postage provided for in Section 1102, act of October 3, 1917, and authorized on July 5, 1918
^becembeA . . . £eado*t ajj Jlujltt and Jlvoe •K-
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Ufarrg (Efjrtatmaa 3Happy NMU f par
*
•
Let eue?-jy home be And gleam with If there are children, Filled with toys
*
•
lighted a Christmas tree; hang the stockings and Christmas glee. Let every hearth be lighted With warmth and friendly cheer; Let father, mother, loved ones; Give praises free from fear. Let friends and neighbors enter With good will to all men, Extend a gladsome greeting For it's Christmas time again. -
DECEMBER 1964
Mamie Ozburn Odum
PAGE 1
Gb/uAtnuiA. . . . and what it *ftea*U, to. me. by Samuel A. Madden Christmas means many things to many people. The meaning to most of us is based upon the memory of earlier experiences and events which have given meaning to this most significant of all the birthdays of the Christian world. Christmas to me means home, and the gathering of the family, colorful decorations in the home, and in the street; children singing Christmas carols and hymns; the gathering of Christmas greens and the Christmas tree; the sending and receiving of Christmas greetings; the lights and colors of red and green pervading all decorations, windows, and merchandising, often against a background of new fallen snow. It is also the memory of the odor of the holiday fruit cake, of holidays from school, of hanging a Christmas stocking and of rising before dawn in the cold and chill darkness of the Christmas morn to discover that Santa had not passed by without filling the stock-
ing with the oranges, nuts, raisins and candy, etc., fireworks being set off and the reading of the story of Christmas, the Gospel According to Luke, from the family Bible. "For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ, the Lord." It is a time of giving and receiving Christmas gifts, of a family gathering to attend Christmas worship services, of the family assembly for the Christmas dinner with turkey, ham, mincemeat pies, and other delights, a time of the visits of the rarely seen aunts, uncles, and relatives from afar. It is the time for the holiday dance, of h u n t -
ing, sleighriding, skating and the building of snow men. It is the fulfillment of a long awaited time and day which is a holiday, free of work, a day of celebration, and of worship and family renewals. It is essentially a happy day and time . . . a birthday. This often long awaited and happy birthday has throughout its history been a day of fulfillment. For the first birthday of the Christ Child was a fulfillment of the long awaited Prophesy of the appearance of the Prince of Peace, of Him who would teach "love of all mankind." Rightfully then we should make this day of fulfillment and promise one of worship and celebration, for it is the most significant of all the birthdays known to man. This fulfillment and promise "of peace on earth" is the great hope of the world. EDITOR'S
NOTE:
Bro. S a m u e l A. M a d d e n is professor a n d h e a d of t h e Division of Field Service, Virginia S t a t e College. P e t e r s b u r g , Va. a n d a d e d i cated b r o t h e r .
Jtt Iftttnrtam "When he first the work begun, Small and feeble was his day; Now the word doth swiftly run; Now it wins its widening way: More and more it spreads and grows, Ever mighty to prevail; O that all might catch the flame. All partake the glorious bliss."
THE PATH OF THE JUST IS AS THE SHINING LIGHT,, THAT SHINETH MORE A N D MORE UNTO THE PERFECT DAY. Proverbs 4:18
DEATH IS SWALLOWED U P IN VICTORY. O DEATH, WHERE IS THY STING? O GRAVE, WHERE IS THY VICTORY? I Cor. 15:54b, 55
PAGE 2
We shall not forget the tragedy of November 22, 1963, neither shall we forget what John Fitzgerald Kennedy stood for - we shall remember what he did in so short a period. He was a symbol of progress - a bright and shining light that led the footsteps of mankind nearer to the path of a more excellent way. His memorial is enshrined in the hearts of coutless millions.
"Tranquil you lie, your knightly Your
virtue
proved,
memory, hallowed in the Land you loved.
"All you had hoped for, all you had, you gave To save Mankind yourself you scorned to save."
THE SPHINX
A PROPOSAL by the National Urban League by Whitney M. Young, J r . 'DOMESTIC MARSHALL PLAN' In 1948, by instituting the Marshall Plan to aid the war-torn countries of Europe, the United States took a step unparalleled in history. Recognizing the special need of the nations shattered by World War II, the people of this country committed some $17 billion in money, machines and technical aid to help our neighbors overseas to take their place again in the community of free nations. This righful action was in keeping with the long tradition of America's moral, political and economic credo. We have long given special, emergency aid to the oppressed, the sick, the handicapped and deprived. In recent years, we have seen this concept put into action through our aid - in employment, education and welfare - to Hungarian and Cuban refugees. We see it annually carried out in the form of emergency help to "depressed" and "disaster" areas, suffering from joblessness or devastation by hurricanes, drought and other misfortunes. The "G. I. Bill of Rights" after World War II was, in a sense, a recognition of the special need of our discharged veterans for education, housing, employment and other benefits. Recently, the National Urban League has attracted nationwide attention with its proposal for a temporary "morethan equal" program of aid for Negro citizens. In the current drive for civil rights, with its demonstrations, marches and sit-ins, this prqposal has confused many white Americans. They ask: Is the Negro not to be satisfied by equality alone? Or, is he seeking, not equality, but preference? In the face of these questions, our history should teach us that what the Urban League proposes is not only directly in the American tradition, but has the arguments of racial justice, economic p r a c ticality and morality - secular as well as religious - behind it. On an economic level, the hard but simple fact - borne out by comparative statistics on unemployment, income, mortality rates, substandard housing and education - is that the past of the Negro exists - in the present Citizens everywhere must realize that the effects of over 300 years of oppres-
DECEMBER 1964
sion cannot be obliterated by doing business as usual. They must know, too, that in today's complex, technological society, a strong back and a will to succeed are no longer sufficient to break the bonds of deprivation, as was the case with minority groups in the past. For, in addition to the ordinary forces affecting one's way of life, the Negro's struggle into America's mainstream has been thwarted by the barriers of discrimination and denial based on the color of his skin. The facts speak for themselves. Today, the average Negro family earns $3,233, as compared with $5,835 for the white family - a difference of 45 per cent. This gap has widened by two percentage points in the last decade alone. It has widened because the Negro started receiving too little, too late. More than 75 per cent of Negro workers are found in the three lowest occupational categories - service workers, semiskilled workers, and unskilled and farm labor - the categories most affected by the geometric growth of automation. These same categories include less than 39 per cent of white workers. By the same token, one out of every six Negro dwellings is substandard, as compared with one in 32 white dwellings. One in every four Negro women with pre-school children is working away from home. Of the school dropouts, 21 per cent are Negro; only 7 per cent of high school graduates are N e groes. Unemployment rates for Negroes are from two and one-half to three times higher than those for white workers. To overcome these conditions the National Urban League declares that the nation must undertake an immediate, dramatic and tangible "crash program" - a domestic Marshall Plan - to close this intolerable economic, social and educational gap, which separates the vast majority of Negro citizens from other Americans. Unless this is done, results of the current heroic efforts.in the civil-rights movement will be only an illusion, and the struggle will continue, with perhaps tragic consequences. In its plea for such a domestic Marshall Plan, the Urban League is asking for a special effort, not for special privileges. This effort has been described
as "preferential treatment," indemnification," "special consideration," "compensatory activity. "These are "scare" phrases that obscure the meaning of the proposal and go against the grain of our native sense of fair play. We prefer that our recommendations be seen as necessary and just corrective measures that must be taken if equal opportunity is to have meaning. They are necessary, because only by such means can the majority of Negro citizens be prepared to assume the increased responsibilities that they will face in a more integrated society. They are just, because such an effort alone can repair the devastation wrought by generations of injustice, neglect, discrimination and indifference, based on race. To put it another way, the scales of equal opportunity are now heavily weighted against the Negro and cannot be corrected in today's technological society simply by applying equal weights. For more than 300 years the white American has received special consideration, or "preferential treatment," if you will, over the Negro. What we ask now is that for a brief period there be a deliberate and m a s sive effort to include the Negro citizen in the mainstream of American life. Furthermore, we are not asking for equal time; a major effort, honestly applied, need last only some 10 years. This crash program must be a cooperative effort by all agencies, institutions and individuals, public and private. The elements of the crash program, or domestic Marshall Plan, would include: Education: For the deprived child Negro as well as white - provision for first class schools, with the most modern facilities and the best and most e x perienced teachers. These are necessary to help him realize his potential and prepare him to take advantage of greater educational opportunity. Necessary also is intensified remedial instruction in the lower grades for culturally deprived and retarded pupils. Schools and colleges must find new ways to seek out Negro youths with u n developed talents. Similarly adult education programs must be expanded and geared to the needs of citizens lackc o n t i n u e d on page 4)
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a
by Bro. E. David Shepherd For the Negro in America today, the concept of a new freedom can be faintly seen on the horizon of opportunity. The American Negro is now at the dawn of his second emancipation. A l most 102 years prior to this date, the Negro was cast into a sea of bewilderment and confusion under the pretense of being a free man. True, the Emancipation Proclamation issued then by President Lincoln marks the beginning of the Negro as a human being in this great country of ours, but the chains of events which were to follow the N e gro in the years that preceded Lincoln's decree made the Negro's first emancipation a paradox of the American concept of justice. To say a m a n is free and not allow him to vote is a lie. To say a man is free and deney him an education is a lie. To say a man is free and not allow him to pursue his living according to the means which God has made available to him is a lie. Fortunately, the Negro has always had among his brethren one who will call a lie a lie and then ask that the truth be spoken in the manner of dealing fairly with all men. In the years
before the Civil War, the voice of Richard Allen rang as crier of Negro discontent, then came Frederick Douglass and W. E. Du Bois, Bro. Martin L. King, and many others. Through the patient cries of these men, the disgraceful treatment of the American Negro has been broadcast to the world. The intervening years, 1863 to 1964, have seen the Negro emerge as a m a n ready to do his part for democracy; as a man ready to stand on his own latent wits and talents. The thoughts e x pressed are not uniquely the credit of this author, they have been spoken with much more finesse than I shall hope to comprehend; they have been written with much more rhetorical eloquence than I shall hope to procure, nevertheless, the sentiment of this article is one which should be possessed by every young American Negro who enters the portals of the Ivy-covered walls of America's many colleges and universities. It is the sentiment of learning and laboring with equal opportunity that has captured the heart of the N e gro today. It is these tools which we see as the key that opens the gate of economic independence, or moreoverly that loosens the shackles which have bound the Negro to the doom of p a u -
perism. No longer is the Negro content to be and appendage of American society which becomes infected and must thereby be removed at the age of 65, or when his back can no longer bear the rigors of the crudest forms of m a n ual labor; no longer will the Negro sit idly by while others dictate to him his share of American Democracy. More than all of the aforementioned, no longer is the Negro content to have only one or two of his brethren reach the land of milk and honey while he remains a puppet in the drama of American life. Even more than this, the Negro has begun to pull, to cry, to achieve, to strike back as an entity as a unit. More than this at the dawn of his second emancipation, the Negro has issued his own decree. In this new decree of freedom, the Negro demands his God-given rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. In this new decree of freedom, the Negro offers himself as a m a n willing and able to help provide the democratic dream which Americans so fervently seek a dream of free men working together to protect and make more perfect a society in which men may live and prosper according to their own initiatives.
(Continued from page 3)
sponsible Negro organizations and leaders. But, because we are faced with the hypocrisy of "tokenism," where the presence of two or three Negro employes is passed off as integration, we are forced, during the transitional stages, to discuss numbers and categories. We demand, in all fairness, that the Negro not be expected to bear the brunt of unemployment. Housing: Racial ghettos eliminated by providing genuine housing opportunities on the basis of need and financial ability. Programs of redevelopment and relocation, planned to provide both low-income housing and a racial diversity, are needed throughout our communities. This will require the active participation of real estate brokers as well as homeowners. Health and Welfare: Public and p r i vate agencies seeking to provide the best personnel and facilities in low- i n -
come> neighborhoods, and increased counseling services to troubled families. Here, particularly, the churches and schools must combine efforts to help Negro families develop a deeper sense of parental and community r e sponsibility. Finally, qualified Negro citizens should be sought and named to public and private boards and commissions, particularly those which shape employment, housing, education, and health and welfare policies. In achieving this objective, we would develop strong, responsible leadership within the N e gro community. Also, we would prompt private foundations, business and government to reassess the extent and aims of their financial contributions to establish Negro leadership and organizations. The program outlined here has a (Continued on page 9)
ing the basic literary and technical skills. Employment: A planned effort to place qualified Negroes in all categories of employment, at all levels of responsibility. This would mean that employers would consciously seek to hire qualified Negro citizens and would intensify apprenticeship and training p r o grams to prepare new Negro employes and upgrade those already employed. Labor unions, too, must make a conscientious effort to include Negroes in their membership and training p r o grams. Further, where Negroes h a v e not been employed in the past at all levels, it is essential that there be conscious preferment to help them catch up. This does not mean the establishment of a quota system - an idea shunned by r e -
PAGE 4
THE SPHINX
I IE Of I B i l l Ml by Bro. Daniel T. Williams In recent years, the problems of working with groups of young people have received a great deal of attention. Yet there remains a great deal of u n knowns and uncertainties in connection with the development of workable partnerships between such groups and adults who may have occasion to work with them in an advisory capacity. This article is written in an effort to express some thoughts and impressions that have grown out of the writer's experience as an adviser to Gamma Phi chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Among college fraternities, there are wide variations both in size and mode of operation. There is, nevertheless, a common foundation upon which these groups are built that is also shared by many other campus living or social groups not classified as fraternities. The common denominator that binds these groups together is the fact that each of them is organized to operate as a more or less autonomous unit in which the major responsibility for successful operation of the group is carried by the members themselves. A fraternity chapter, in the writer's opinion, is primarily in the business of "growing" people. This expression is used in the same sense that one thinks of growing plants. The growing is actually done by the plant or the individual, but there is much that can be done to provide the environment necessary for healthy growth. The well organized chapter is a pleasant and satisfying place to live. It also provides the close and enduring friendships that are so often mentioned in connection with such groups. Most of the problems of living and working with people occur in the normal course of being in a fraternity, and members learn through first-hand experience the necessary give and take. What are the duties of a chapter adviser? This is a difficult question to answer, since the role is undoubtedly structured in as many different ways as there are advisers and chapters. To a large extent, this is necessary and good. The individual pattern of t e a m work between an adviser and his chapter must be tailored to the personal-
DECEMBER 1964
ities of both parties. The adviser's role can be understood properly if it is first recognized that the job is in reality a sort of an afterthought This statement simply serves to underscore the fact that the entire chapter organization is structured to run without an adviser His role becomes meaningful only when difficulties are encountered and the specifics of his duties must always be defined in terms of the needs of the moment. An adviser's success is directly dependent upon his ability to sense the changing needs of the chapter both promptly and accurately. If he is to accomplish this he must get to know the individual members of the group very well. The process of getting acquainted is, of course, equally important because it provides the members with the opportunity to learn to feel relaxed and at ease with the adviser and to gain a personal sense of the role that he is to play. The adviser must be concerned not only with the chapter as a functioning group but also with the members as 'individuals. Through his continuing informal contracts, he is in an ideal position to serve the members as a counselor and friend on matters of a personal nature. This can often prove to be the area in which he makes his greatest contribution and finds his greatest personal satisfaction. In order to open the way for such opportunities to develop, the adviser must make every effort to gain the confidence of the individual members and to give evidence of his interest in them as people. Although he will inevitably develop closer personal ties with some than with others, he must endeavor to make certain that his availability to all members is not influenced by these ties. A good deal of the time spent with the chapter can be profitably devoted to spur-of-the-moment contacts with individual members. Such informality makes it easy for them to take the i n itiative in the relationship and encourages them to call upon the adviser for the sort of help that he is best qualified to give. Once in a while, the adviser may have to communicate with the group
as a whole. Formal meetings of the chapter are usually suggested as the best vehicle for such communications. In such meetings, informal discussions on a man-to-man basis are not possible. Here the adviser is speaking for the record and must weigh his words carefully. What he says is usually accorded a great deal of weight by the members and can have a very profound effect upon the chapter's deliberations. In his conversations with members, the adviser is constantly presented with opportunities to turn their thinking into new channels and to challenge them to think constructively about the problems that confront them. The objective, of course, is to think with the member and not to "tell" him, but this is often easier said than done. The adviser should not overlook the power of a good example. He is constantly under observation in his work with the chapter, and he must be able to demonstrate at least fair success at practicing what he preaches. Although it is not possible to gain a meaningful measure of the impact that an adviser may have upon his chapter through the example he sets, it is undoubtedly one of his most powerful tools. Up to this point, little attention has been given to the adviser's personal limitations. Yet these are important. First among these are the unavoidable limits upon the time and energv that he can devote to his work with the chapter. For him, as well as the chapter, this is an extra curricular activity, and it must be treated as such. Generally, he must give the majority of his attention to other matters such as his family and his job. He will also have other outside interests. Once a solid relationship has been established, it is probably safer to err a bit in the direction of being available too little rather than too much. There is always a possibility that the adviser who is overly conscientious will become so involved with the chapter that he loses his perspective and thereby greatly diminishes his usefulness. Then, too, an adviser can never afford to become such a fixture in the daily life of the chapter that the members take him for granted. (Continued on page 6)
PAGE 5
E
T H E LOST S H E E P
by Bro. C. T. Nicholas
This article is an introspective peek at Alpha Phi Alpha, it therefore follows that it will be also an introspective look at myself. Our Fraternity is supposed to be over 27,000 members strong. Of this number only some 7,000 actively participate in the affairs of oitr Fraternity. It takes no genius to recogi e that this situation is rapidly approaching disaster proportions. Not knowing the abovestated fact, the natural reaction of any noble Alpha is first surprise, and then indignation. Surprise that this is possible; indignation, that it is permitted to continue. The next logical questions are! How did this happen? What can we do to stop this dangerous trend of non-participation? In attempt to answer the first question we may ask yet another question. Is there any common denominator among this group of non-participants? I think that you will find that the a v erage non-participating Brother's last contact with the Fraternity was through his undergraduate chapter. In short, he did not join a graduate chapter in the first critical year after graduation from college. If he did he soon disaffiliated himself. Why? Primarily I think it to be a problem of dissimilar interests. Secondarily, it is a problem of finance. The recent graduate has very few similar interests with the a v erage graduate chapter, withstanding the fact that they are both Alphas, and the existence of some graduate Brothers who epitomize George B. Shaw's statement that "youth is wasted on the young." Regrettably, this is the e x ception rather than the rule. By and large our graduate chapters will never have to fear the prospect of being lauded as the most progressive group in the country. It is not my intention to assess rights or wrongs to any particular group in our Fraternity. I make these observations because I think most of us have overlooked them. If there is to be an indictment then all Alphadom would have to be indicted. The Fraternity is currently trying to -bring the lost sheep back into the fold through various projects now in operation. I wish to suggest still another possibility - The formation of more intermediate chapters! These would. be especially helpful in large cities. I
PAGE 6
should point out that the author is a member of one of the only two such chapters in existence - Omicron L a m b da Alpha of Washington, D. C. We are a group of "misfits", having passed the stage of undergraduate bliss, but not yet attained the wisdom of the ages. Our membership includes students in
Graduate and Professional schools, r e cent college graduates, service men and just any Alpha who isn't a member of a graduate or undergraduate chapter. Our financial obligation to the fraternity is kept small because of our critical status. We recently welcomed ten (10) new brothers of which two (2) were medical students, six (6) dental students, and two (2) recent college graduates. So we do function and contribute. Today, more and more one hears people (some Greeks) sounding the death knell for fraternities, suggesting that organizations like our own are on their way out. It is true that in recent years fraternities have found some disfavor in some parts of the country. However, by and large, the most vehement criticism of fraternities has always come from institutions that are not affiliated with such organizations, therefore, it seems that such criticism will always be with us. Fraternities and Sororities are most vulnerable partly as a result of physical violence in initiation rites. More and more this is becoming less and less of a problem. However, what is becoming more and more of a problem is the feeling of detachment experienced by undergraduate members. There is a definite need for strengthening of the bond between the undergraduate chapters and the National Organization, never forgetting the other member of the triad, the local graduate chapter. Too much, the relationship between graduate and u n dergraduate chapters has been one of a "big brother" - "little b r o t h e r " type. In most cases, it is as if they were two
different fraternities. As a result when the undergraduate becomes a graduate he finds it hard to establish contact with this group. This coupled with the aforementioned problems makes for a very unsavory situation. I am not presumptuous enough to think that in these few short lines I have defined or solved all the problems of our fraternity. I do hope however, that I have said a few things which needed saying or which have not been said recently. At the end of my self introspection I have uncovered some disturbing facts. However, the same spirit in which I uncovered these facts is the same spirit in which I and all Alpha Brothers can attempt to do something about them. The fact hat you are reading this a r ticle means that you are an active Alpha. Therefore you should immediately think of all inactive Alphas and what we can do to make them active, then go and do it. Lest we falter in our job, let us remember the spirit of the FOUNDING SEVEN. (Continued from paee 5) The adviser-chapter relationship is a team effort toward a common goal. In keeping with this philosophy, it is essential that the members make a conscious effort to adjust to the adviser even as he is adjusting to them. This must be intentionally encouraged by the adviser in various ways, since, it may not otherwise occur to the m e m bers that there is anything they can do to help. Neither is it certain to occur to them that the adviser, too, needs an occasional "pat on the back". Too often, he is thought of by the members as a sort of self-energizing perpetual motion machine that will always keeo going no matter what happens. Not that they don't appreciate his efforts. They do. But they are apt to be amazed to find that the adviser cares very much about what they think of his work. The writer's role of fraternity adviser has proved most challenging - and at times perplexing. Much is demanded of a man who earnestly pursues this role, but much is given him in return. The foregoing discussion is r o t Droposed as a panacea. It will have served its purpose if it succeeds in stimulating the thinking of others who find themselves cast in advisory roles similar to the one described.
THE SPHINX
Qiat Qun
with Brother O. Wilson Winters
THE
NIGHT
BEFORE
With a sleigh full of Christmas and good fellowship
CHRISTMAS
And then in a twinkling A jitterbug
"Twas the night before Christmas, and at each Alpha Tliere was no Convention
and no cause to roam
The luggage was stacked in the closets like Awaiting
home
Chicago, next August,
stampede
tricks,.
I heard on the roof
from each Alpha hoof
As I drew back my head and was turning Down the chimney
too
around
(God help him) did St. Nicholas
He was dressed in a fur coat from head to his foot
six-six
But my chimney was full of white ashes and soot
My son was asleep long ago in his bed
As a paragon of fashion he cared not a hoot
While visions of jalopies danced thru his head
For he looked like Sol Estes well laden with loot
My wife in her snuggies and me, stocking
His eyes how they twinkled!
cap
His dimples how
Were omitting this year our Christmas Eve nap.
'Twas then I decided St. Nick was a fairy.
When out on the laion there arose such a clatter
His droll little mouth, a cute cupid's bow
I ran thru the room to zee what was the
Like he'd run into alum somewhere
matter
Away to the window I flew like a flash
'dontcha
merry!
know!
The stump of his pipe he held tight in his teeth
Up went window blind, high up went the sash.
With such a cute mouth, smoke rings were like
The moon on the bosom of new fallen
He had a broad face and his frame seemed to hurdle
Gave a lustre of high noon to objects
snow, below
When what to my Canadian Club eyes should But a miniature
sled and eight tiny
wreaths
Only close friends could tell he was wearing a girdle appear
reindeer
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf And I smiled when I saw he was stuck on himself
With a pot belly driver so lively and quick I knew in a thrice it must be Saint
A wink of his eye and a a toss of his head
Nick
And my wife quickly knew, she had nothing to dred
More rapid than Bob Hayes these swift reindeer
came
As he snorted and shouted and called them strange
names
He spake not a word but went straight to his work And stuffed all our stockings and turned with a jerk
Now Beatty! Now Jefferies;
Now Morris and Hale
He. laid his finger, I, stuck my thumb, to the nose.
On Felton C!
On Newsom and Cole
With a 'come hither' nod up the chimney
Grandvel J!
he rose
To the top of the porch to the top of the wall
He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a yell
Now dash away, dash away, dash away all!
And away they all flew like a bat out of - Halifax
As dry leaves before the wild hurricane
But I heard him exclaim as he shot out of sight
fly
While Junior is raking and scanning the sky So up to the house-top
DECEMBER, 1964
bound
this strangs cargo flew
Merry Christmas to Alphas and to others - Good
Night!"
(With apology to Clement Clark Moore)
PAGE 7
Banquet Address delivered at the N e w York Convention, A u g u s t 19, 1964 Brother Toastmaster Officers and Men of Alpha Alpha Wives - and Sweethearts I am indebted to you for the opportunity to stand here as your national leader and I am further indebted to Brother Brown for his kind and gracious words of Introduction. The fact is well known that since 1906, Alpha Phi Alpha has charted new paths of leadership for our people. We are especially happy that the New York City Alpha Chapters have under the leadership of Brother Aaron Brown provided a setting and an atmosphere which have made our deliberations both possible and meaningful. I want to extend a special "thank you" to this group - and I want to commend again the officers of the Fraternity, the chairmen and membership of Committees, the Directors and chairmen of Seminars, the 50th anniversary Sphinx Committee- and everyone who has assisted in so many effective ways with this 58th Anniversary Convention. For just a few minutes tonight I would like us to be concerned with The Image of the American Negro - His inner security, his heritage and his pride! The Negro must, I would submit, become increasingly aware of his image as a person - and we must develop consciously develop, pride in our heritage, for only in this way can we d e velop the inner security so necessary for the advancement of a people! Our leading psychiatrists tell us that of every one hundred children born in this country - 13 will never reach emotional maturity - 8 will suffer temporary mental breakdowns - 4 will be committed to mental-institutions - and 1 will become a confirmed criminal all amidst the wealth and prosperity of this nation. Much of this mental illness stems from the failure of people to accept themselves as they really are. We have no control over our birth and its attendant conditions - but we do have control over what we accept to believe - the manner in which we conduct ourselves and the pride which we take in our persons, our institutions, our programs, and our heritage (and we do have a heritage). Our task is to ac-
PAGE 8
b y T. Winston Cole, General President
and hide it deep down within man himself - and so busy will man be flying to the highest mountain, digging into the bowels of the earth, and diving to the depths of the seas that he will never think to look within himself". To have inner security, I repeat one must know and accept himself. He must accept what he is racially, what he is physically, and what he is accomplishment-wise, or status-wise, or any of the many categories into which a life might be catologued. Then, he must improve those qualities about himself which can be improved, and he must accept, as they are, those qualities about himself which cannot be improved. He must have pride in what he is, and pride in what he can become. The one great cleanser which you and I can use to clear away some of the smudges and grime from our glasses of pride is that of example! Because you see, for us as human beings, it is so easy to avoid the personal responsibility, to get lost in the anonymous crowd, to speak in terms of the stereotype! Our pride in our heritage can only become vibrant, and strong and alive for others - after it has become vibrant, and strong and alive for us! Every life has some influence. Who knows - perhaps you or I may be the Moses required to lead the Negro people to a realization of their heritage. As a Negro, be proud of your heritage, as was Langston Hughes as he tried to show through poetry, the contributions made by your people and mine since the beginning of time. As he compares the life of the blackman with mighty rivers, Hughes said, and I quote; "I've known rivers. I've known rivers, ancient as the world, and older than the flow of human blood in human veins. My soul has grown deep like rivers. I bathed in the Euphrates when dawn was young. I built my hut near the Congo, and it lulled me to sleep. I looked upon the Nile, and raised the pyramids above it. I heard the singing of the Mississippi when Abe Lincoln went down to New Orleans, and I've seen its muddy bosom turn all golden in the sunset. I've known rivers, ancient, dusky, rivers. My soul "I'll tell you what we'll do. "We'll take this piece of divinity - integrity - has grown deep like rivers." (Continued on page 9) inner security - call it what you will -
cept who and what we are with dignity and respect for what we are and what we may become. No amount of fashion - of powders and paints - of anger and indignation - of self righteousness and hatred can make an individual secure. Security must come from deep within us - where it has been plated by a merciful God. You perhaps, know the story which is told of the secret of this source of strength. An old Legend of India tells us that once all the inhabitants of the earth were Gods and lived in Serenity and Peace - and then man was created and this serenity and security as a source of strength was shattered and almost destroyed - and the Gods wondered what could be done to preserve the source of tranquility and pride. What shall we do with this priceless heritage! - which man continues to abuse, they wondered; so they decided to call a meeting in order to make a decision! What shall we do with this little piece of the divinity, of integrity, of pride which has been granted us was the issue! How can we prevent man's abuse of this heritage? One of the lesser Gods spoke up and said: "I'll tell you - Let's take this little spark of Divinity and place it on the highest mountain. Man could never find it there to abuse it." "No", answered Bhrama - The Great God Father. "One day man will invent a machine called an aeroplane. He will fly to the top of the highest mountain, and he will find this piece of divinity - integrity, pride - and he will abuse it!" Then a second of the lesser Gods spoke - He said, "Let's take this piece of divinity and hide it in the bowels of the earth." "No", again answered the God Father. One day man will excavate - he will discover this spark of divinity - and he will abuse it. Then a third of the lesser Gods cried. "Let's take this piece of divinity and hide it in the depths of the ocean". "No", answered Brahma. "One day man will invent a submarine. He will dive to the depths of the sea find this piece of divinity and again abuse it". Then the lesser Gods dropped their heads and were silent for they had no further suggestion.
THE SPHINX
(Continued from page 8) Do you find it difficult to be proud of your humble beginning at this m o ment, ambition gone, your goal obscured by darkness and doubt? Then, perhaps, the conversation of a mother with her son, a mother whose thoughts can be of solace to you, and bring you inner peace and security at this moment. The mother says to her son through the magic of the imagination of Langston Hughes, and I quote again from the richness of his writing: Well son, I tell you, life for me ain't been no crystal stair. It's had tacks in it and splinters, and boards torn up, and places with no carpet on the floor bare. But all the time I've been a climbin' on and reaching landings and turning corners, and sometime going in the dark - where there ain't been no light. So boy, don't turn back. Don't you set down on the steps cause you find it kinder hard. Don't you fall now, for I'se still going honey. I's still climbin' - and life, for me, ain't been no crystal stair." When I was in London, England, a year or so ago, I came across a book of published works called - Black and Unknown Bards - I was very much impressed with this collection of writings, all by members of the Negro race, and for our closing challenge, I'd like to paraphrase a selection by Margarett Walker which she called simply - For My People - and I would say that each of us could seek new realization of pride in our heritage and dedicate our lives and our accomplishments to such developments in all our people. To my people. To my people everywhere singing their slave songs, r e peatedly; their dirges and their ditties and their blues and jubilees, praying their pravers nightly to an unknown God, bending their knees humbly to an unseen power. To my people lending their strength to the years, to the gone years, and the now years and the may be years, washing, ironing, cooking, scrubbing, sewing, mending, hoeing, plowing, digging, planting, pruning, patching, dragging along - never known and never understanding. To my people - playmates in the clay and dust and sand of Alabama, Texas, Mississippi, and Louisiana backyards, playing baptizing and preaching and doctor and jail and soldier and school and mama and cooking and playhouse and concert and store and never really knowing. To my people living the crampled, bewildered years when we went to school to learn to know the reasons why and the answers to and the people who and the places where and the days
DECEMBER 1964
when, in memory of the bitter hours when we discovered we were black and poor and small and different and nobody cared and nobody wondered and nobody understood. For the boys and girls who grew up in spite of these conditions to be men and women, to laugh and dance and sing and play and drink their wine, and have their religion, and have their success, to marry their plavmates, and bear children then die - never ever knowing - never ever understanding. To my people thronging 47th Street in Chicago, and Lenox Avenue in New York and Rampart Street in New Orleans - lost, disinherited, dispossessed, but a happy people filling the Cabarets and taverns and other peoples pockets - for they, too, need bread and shoes, and land and money and something to call their own. To my people walking blindly, spreading you, losing time, being lazy, sleeping when hungry, shouting when burdened, drinking when hopeless, tied, shackled, tangled by invisible chains of slavery. To my people blundering, and groping and floundering in the dark of churches and schools, and clubs and societies, associations and councils and committees and conventions - distressed and disturbed and deceived and devoured by money-hungry glory seeking leeches, preyed on by forces of state - preyed on by fads, and novelty, by false prophet and holy believer. To my people standing, staring, t r y ing to fashion, a better way from confusion, from hypocrisy and misunderstanding - trying to fashion a world which will hold all of the people, all of the faces, all of the Adams and Eves and their countless generations. And it is my wish - further, it is my fervent prayer that God will let a new earth rise! That God will let a new world be born! That God will let a real peace be written in the sky! That God will let a second generation full of courage issue forth! Let freedom loving people come to growth . . . Let a beauty full of healing, and a strength of final clenching be the pulsing in our spirits and our bloods . . . Let the marching songs be written . . . Let the dirges disappear . . . Let a race of men now rise - stand tall, and take control - and it is my wish and further my fervent prayer that Greek Letter Organizations shall have contributed to such a realization. Thank you! DEADLINE FOR MATERIALS FOR THE FEBRUARY ISSUE OF THE SPHINX - JANUARY 11, 1965
(Continued from page 4) simple, practical aim: to provide the Negro citizen with the leadership, education, jobs and motivation that will permit him to help himself. It is not a plea to exempt him from the independence and initiative demanded by our free, competetive society. It makes practical economic sense as a measure to reduce unemployment and welfare costs and to increase our productivity and national income by including Negro citizens in the benefits of our rich society. President Kennedy's economic advisers estimated that our gross national product could be raised 2.5 per cent, were the Negro worker's earnings commensurate with the nation's average. This program makes historical sense as a rehabilitation of the damage inflicted upon the Negro by generations of injustice and neglect. He, too has given his blood, sweat and tears to the building of our country; yet, where the labor and initiative of other minority groups have been rewarded by assimilation within the society, the black American has been isolated and r e jected. The domestic Marshall Plan has profound moral and religious justification. Our country is in dire jeopardy as long as it has within its body politic a socially and economically deprived group of citizens, whether they be actually enslaved or denied the full benefits of equality and freedom by an insidious economic and psychological slavery. In this sense, the crash programs that we propose are not an effort to impose the guilt and sins of a past generation on our present community. This is an a p peal for all Americans, working together, to rid present-day America of its sickening disease and its moral shame. The Negro is in revolt today, not to change the fabric of our society or to seek a special place in it, but to enter into partnership in that society. It is a revolt with which every American should sympathize. Already a few educational and business institutions are working with intensified effort, special consideration, if you will, in solving this problem. We have the material and spiritual resources as a country to meet the challenge and accomplish the urgent task ahead. All we need is the will to act and the spirit of decency and sacrifice which abounds in our land. EDITOR'S NOTE: Bro. Whitney Young is Executive Direcetor of the National Urban League, former dean of Atlanta University School of Social Work and is considered ont of the outstanding Negro leaders in the civil rights movement.
PAGE 9
MUSING WITH THE POETS
:
»••• "I
AM
SICK"
I am sick not of palsy and not with fever. Not of any empty space in my metaphysical shape, I am not psychiatric and have no trouble in my liver, But I am sick. I am of medium height and not quite lean, I do not have conjunctivitis and not even beriberi, Or any other trouble in my physical being. But I am sick. The medical encyclopedia is big enough. It numerates more diseases than you can And I am sorry it is not one of those, Yet I am sick.
think;
I am sick of a modern, sophisticated world Whose ravines of hate yawn wide and deep, And separate man from man in our modern world. These make me sick. Man has exchanged places with jungle beasts, He roars and chatters when he should speak, He resorts to customs instead of reasons. He makes me sick. Men have eyes and ears on the head, But this seems unreal and fantastic to-day. Men have lost their heads and retained their ears and eyes. An so I am sick. With ears and eyes we embibe customs And disdain reasoning with all our hearts Whoever cast away reason to uphold customs? You make me sick.
The world is really very strange today. If you obey its laws you are condemned. And if you defy its laws you are condemned. What a sick world! I don't know what you care about. If you are not sick you must be dead, For I have never seen eyes without a head, As I do today. The black sheep, the brown sheep and the white sheep Together in peace they do lead their lives, But men are flying apart like dry leaves in the wind. They must be sick. May be you're not, but I am sick To find that man has lost his reasoning, And fled to brutality and hate. I think he is sick. May be to be ancient has greater delight, And that's why we journey from today to yesterday To escape the change of the world of today. I am sick. let's stop the earth in its journey 'round the sun, cut off its axis to keep it still, cannot accept the changes that come with the times. am sick of you. Oh! men of this modern times. -- Bro. Edet R. Iwok
LET US LEARN FROM TALES by Bro. Edet R. Iwok
The Trial Of Strength Once upon a time the tortoise became the friend of the hippopotamus who lives in the river and the elephant whose home is in the forest. These friends always laughed at the tortoise because he was small. One day he warned them not to despise him and challenged them to a trial of strength. He unequivocally told the elephant that he could drag him into the river.
PAGE 10
Fence me up with these friendly dogs, But never leave me with those on twos. For they are more bloody than those on fours. This makes me sick.
Then AND If we For I
What a terrible mess and horrible cramp That twentieth century men should live In customs of the eleventh century. I am sick.
ii
Dogs are becoming handsome and intelligent. They nurse our babies and save our lives. But we burn our homes and take our lives. The world is sick.
In the same boastful manner, he swore he could pull the hippopotamus out of the river. The elephant was angry and agreed on a date for the contest. The tortoise went over to the hippo in the river. The hippo only laughed again, this time much louder and longer. Not being able to resist the insult of contesting with the tortoise any longer, the hippo agreed on a contest. The tortoise arranged for both contests to
come off on the same day and at the same time without the knowledge of the other two animals. Early on the day the tortoise went to the elephant's house in the forest and reminded him of the challenge. They started together and reached the edge of the river. Here the tortoise gave one end of the rope to the elephant and splashed into the river with the other. He then met the hippo and gave the other end of the rope to him with the instruction that the hippo should pull hard because he was sure he could pull him out of the water. The tortoise swam to the middle of the rope and pulled it towards one way and then the other, away from either of the animals. The trial of strength (Continued on page 11)
THE SPHINX
(Continued from page 10) had become a trial of wits - a game in which the tortoise excelled. A great struggle began between the hippo and the elephant. The tortoise watched it from a branch of a tree near the middle of the rope. It was his turn to laugh, and he laughed till his ribs shook. After a long struggle the elephant and the hippo became tired and decided to meet the tortoise and settle the matter. When the rope became slack the tortoise quickly jumped into the river and bit the rope in to two parts. He stood there in the middle holding the ends in his hands when the hippo met him and both of them went to the elephant on the bank of the river. They thought that he had pulled against each of them with only one hand, and wondered what the result would have been if he used his whole strength against each of them. The elephant and the hippo readily agreed that the tortoise was the strongest of them all. We have seen without gain-say that wit is strength. Why Do Men Fight? The tortoise and the hyena were once good friends. One day the hyena r e flected: "Why do men fight?" He asked many animals and they could not give him a satisfactory answer. He then went to his friend, the tortoise who asked him to follow him to a place where he could find an answer. Both animals reached a trap which a man had set for animals. They found a squirrel caught in the trap and r e moved it. Then they went to the river a few yards away and found a fishing basket. The tortoise said, "Let us remove the fish caught in this basket and put in the squirrel." This they did. Both of them went back to the trap and put the fish in it. The tortoise then said: "If we hide here we shall see men fight." When the owners of the snares came along they found that they had caught the wrong creatures and a quarrel began. "Why have you put your useless fish in my trap 1 ?" asked the animal trapper. "It is you who took my fish and put your small squirrel in my basket. Who has ever seen a squirrel inside the river before?" And so their tempers rose and they fought and injured each other. Then the tortoise said: "Hyena, you have seen why men fight?1" "Yes, I have, replied the hyena, "jealousy is the cause of men's quarrels." Children rise up against parents, sister against brother, brother against brother, friend against friend, race
DECEMBER 1964
A PHI A REORGANIZATION by Bro. Oscar W. Ritchie I have just finished reading (for perhaps the third or fourth time) "Mores God or Fate," an address by Jewel Bro. Henry A. Callis. For present purposes, the principal considerations in this address are: (1) the rather clearly implied need for periodic evaluations of our Fraternity; (2) the importance of making such evaluations not merely in terms of tradition (or past policies and practices) but in the light of the everchanging society of which we are, can, and should become an increasingly more creatively productive part; and (3) the absolute necessity to continue to initiate young college men into our fellowship to the end that all our lives will be enriched and at least some people, somewhere, somehow, and in some small measure will be better because of the work we have done and the e x amples we have set. Now is is no mere coincidence that this particular article appears while the Internal Structure Committee is diligently working to deal with the implications set forth above and to come to grips with the basic objective of this article. Frankly, the purpose of this article is to influence the Internal Structure Committee and the Brothers of our Fraternity. (Parenthetically, many Brothers, and some formal - even official - pronouncements have verbalized the need or importance of the basic objective which this article is intended to promote.) At this point, three interrelated questions are pertinent. First, what is this objective to be considered? Second, what is the justification for it? Finally, how can this objective be achieved without drastic measures or adverse consequences? Stated simply, Alpha against race, and nation against nation because they are jealous. EDITOR'S NOTE: Bro. Edet R. Iwok arrived in America from his native country, Nigeria. Africa, Dec. 7, 1961 and began his studies at Miles College, Birmingham, Ala. He was initiated into Gamma Kappa Chapter while there. He is now enrolled in the School of Business Administration, Atlanta University.
Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. should h e r e after devote its resources including its interests, efforts, and finances principally (that is to the maximum e x tent practicable) to work among Brothers and men in college. The justification for such an emphasis is really quite elementary. It is this: Greekletter organizations, including our F r a ternity, were founded for and are better adapted to the needs and life e x periences of college students. Like society, these organizations span generations; and, again like society, the older members of the Fraternity mut be replaced. Finally, this can be done on the campuses of the nation. In consequences of the answers to the three questions posed above, the following suggestions are submitted for prompt and serious consideration, and hopefully for some measure of immediate, progressively greater, and continuing implementation: (1) We should re-examine our history, traditions and achievements with a view toward determining how we can best and most speedily impliment our primary objectives and thereby facilitate the process of collective efforts toward integration and the individual enjoyment of it. (2) We should authorize and underwrite the cost of a rigorous, systematic, and comprehensive study of the structures, functions, and operations of our chapters on the campuses of the nation and utilize the findings as bases for projections, planning and improvements. (3) If, for example, this study indicates the need for and the soundness of an extensive housing program, we should provide such housing, even at the cost of retrenchment in certain offcampus activities (meaning Graduate and Convention programs). As an integral part of such a program, provisions should be made for successful management, continuing supervision, sound financing, and optimum upkeep. (4) We should maintain close and continuing contacts, official and u n official, individual and collective, with in-college Alpha men. Through these contacts, we should emphasize the importance of scholarship, the value of fellowship, and the virtue of service. (Continued on page 21)
PAGE 11
1 t l i l o i iÂŤill> S p e a k i n g j REORGANIZATION Is reorganization the great necessity of our fraternity? We have been in the process of change and reorganization over a period of several years. We remember very vividly the Long Report and its final adoption. How well do we recall the debate and the intended accomplishments of this reorganization blueprint. We ask again, how far has the fraternity advanced since the adoption of this report, in terms of a functional program, number of active brothers, deeds accomplished and brotherly endeavor? Q. Where may I secure A Phi A and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Automobile Stickers? A.
I suggest that you write to Bro. Laurence Young, 4432 So. Parkway, Chicago, 111. for Alpha stickers, and that .you write to Delta Headquarters, 1814 M Street, N. W., Washington 36, D. C, for Delta stickers.
Q. Will the editor write an article for The Sphinx from newspaper or magazine clippings sent to him? A. This information has been sent to chapter secretaries several times. The editor will not write such articles. Write your own article, make it brief and to the point, and it will surely be published. Q. Can you use pictures taken from newspapers or magazines? A. Please do not send such pictures, they do not print very well and detract from the other pictures, We would rather have well lined, black and white glossy prints. Q. What methods and procedures are used to organize Alpha Wives organizations? Please ask the president of your chapter's wives organization to send me a copy of their handbook or other information. A.
There is no such handbook furnished by our national organization. If there are Alpha Wives organizations that would like to furnish this friend with such information, please send it to: Mr. Herbert L. Starke, 2349 NW 28th St., Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.
PAGE 12
An inspired movement derful thing, but too often zations they become static ganization and mechanics issues.
for good and advancement is a wonwhen movements grow into organiand more emphasis is placed on orthan upon the purpose and vital
We feel that an evaluation of our purpose in light of our present day environment might prove helpful. Let us hasten to say that purpose is of little value unless all activity is geared to and from that purpose. No amount of reorganization can substitute for dedicated hard work, promotional skill, good ideas, and a bold determination to make them work. There must be dedicated leadership with the time and interest to promote and lead; brave enough to make decisions, even at the risk of popularity, approval or the silly notion of being "liked" by everyone. Let us face the fact that a leader void of inspiration can hardly inspire others. THANKS FOR A GOOD JOB A great asset to any organization is to have members who are willing to go beyond that which is required. Bro. Harold Jones of Berkeley, Calif, has been responsible for the Gamma Phi Lambda Chapter Newsletter for several years. He has done a fine job and deserves a word of thanks. This chapter newsletter is one of the most informative that I have seen, and I am sure that it has proven to be a great asset to the fraternity. Bro. Jones says that the November 30th Newsletter is the last that he will be responsible for. We regret that this is the last and hope that he can be persuaded to reconsider. BROTHER KING - A MOST HONORABLE MAN . . . of course, everyone knows that Bro. Martin Luther King, Jr., Nobel Prize Winner is not a notorious liar nor has he misrepresented the truth in statements relative to the F. B. I. Bro. King is a most honorable man, one dedicated to high ideals and unselfish motives. One of the oldest tricks of deception is to accuse someone else of what you are guilty, or to raise a fuss about an issue of guilt in order to shift the blame or responsibility. Some call this the "unforgiveable sin", but a more common term is to "loud talk" one in order to drown out the truth. THE SPHINX
"If you can keep your head when all about you Are losing theirs and blaming it on you;
.
.
. you'll be a Man
.
. .
!"
Bro. King has proven himself to be a gentleman in the past, and the way in which he handled the recent unpleasant incident showed him to be a superb kind of a man of unusual character.
Saa&d
FUTILITY There are those who reap where they have not sown, while others sow and fail to reap. Some men create ideas and transform them into tangible activity or mortar and stone. They succeed and do an excellent job but too often, instead of praise, their spirits are killed through jealous nature for no other reason than the fact - they succeeded. Others plagiarize ideas and accept human acclaim for that which they do not deserve. There are those who would never study if they could receive a degree otherwise - they have no thirst for knowledge. A pleasant smile and agreeable actions, too often accomplish as much or more than honest and brilliant efforts. There are those who rise to the height of their ambition without achieving the same, through deception, false praise, and a slap on the back for the powers to be. Some do just enough to get by, and yet, through the frailty of man's evaluation, they stand with those who go beyond the call of duty they care not for excellence. There are those who never exert themselves; they are all things to all men - their tombstones bear their names birth. Others rush and labor, as if success depended upon their tombstones bear the same - they are remembered no
good fellows, and dates of such things more.
There are those who live and move and act for self with one motive - win, attain for self. Others forget self and act upon convictions, willing to face the consequence - have they gained more? This does not prove that life is unjust or that futility awaits those who fail to plan and take self as a partner in all gains and ambitions. What does it mean? You figure it out and surely you will be with wisdom and a more complete person with a deeper understanding for all that mankind was created for. T H A N K S The editor of The Sphinx takes this method of thanking all persons who have contributed in any way toward the success of any part of The Sphinx during the past year. I am deeply grateful to every one who has written an article, furnished information, or assisted with the mechanics of publishing the magazine. Many, many thanks and for you - A MERRY, MERRY! CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY AND PROGRESSIVE NEW YEAR! DECEMBER 1964
"The King Incorporated: Leopold II in the Age of Trusts" by Neal Ascherson. Doubleday and Company, Inc. 310 pages, $4.95. "The King Incorporated" is a biography of the king who ranks with the leading robber barons of the 19th century in his ruthlessness, his busi" ness acumen, and his political legerdemain. When Leopold inherited the throne of Belgium in 1865, Belgium was a small provincial country with no colonies and no ambitions. Leopold, however, had already been casting a serious eye on the Philippines; he had invested heavily and successfully in the Suez Canal, and he was almost ready to spring his great African plan. What he needed was a tool, and that tool turned out to be Henry Stanley, the explorer who had recently found a reluctant Dr. Livingston. Leopold formed the Association Internationale Africaine and sent Stanley out to set up trading stations all over the Congo. The international nature of this organization was merely a gimmick for a power monopoly in which Leopold was joined by three other robber barons: one Dutch, one English and one Scottish. The Germans, the English and the French were also interested in Africa, but Leopold was able, by playing one against the other and by using the weakness of Belgium as his chief asset, to hold on to what was laughingly known as the Congo Free State. Actually, this vast territory became a forced labor camp, and Leopold milked it of a fortune in ivory and rubber and out that fortune in his private coffers. Leopold's personal life was as ruthless as his public life for he ignored his queen when she failed to produce anv sons who lived beyond childhood. This is a carefully researched and extremely well written biography. PAGE 13
CONVENTIONS *
#
•
•
-
W SOUTHWESTERN REGIONAL
.
„£v CONVENTION % ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY
Scene during ihe firft general session
18TH SOUTHWESTERN REGIONAL CONVENTION More than 150 brothers representing 35 chapters and four states assembled in Booker T. Washington High School, Shreveport, Louisiana, March 26-28, 1964, for the best Regional Convention ever held in the Southwest. Highlights included: Addresses by brothers Wayne C. Chandler (keynote speaker for o p ening session), T. Winston Cole, Sr. (public meeting), Anthony Hollins (undergraduate luncheon), and Robert W. Hunter ( b a n q u e t ) ; workshops; social activities; and award winners: Beta Kappa Chapter for best undergraduate scrapbook, Pi Lambda Chapter for best all-'round program of a c tivities for graduate chapters; Bro. Christopher for winning at golf. MIDWESTERN REGIONAL CONVENTION The midwestern Regional Convention convened in the Sheraton-Lincoln Hotel, Indianapolis, Indiana, March 20-21, 1964, with Iota Lambda as host chap1ter. The convention theme was: "First
PAGE 14
V\
*n
Scene during banquet - Bra. Robert W. Hunter w a s banquet speaker
of All . . . We Shall Transcend All" The convention chairman was Bro. Grant W. Hawkins, chapter president, Bro. Joseph T. Taylor. The opening session was called to order at 1:30 p. m. Friday. Welcome addresses were heard, officers introduced and the various committees were appointed. A Cabaret Dance was sponsored by the Pan-Hellenic Council at 9:00 p. m. The second business session was called to order by the vice president, Bro. E. C. Collins on Saturday morning at 9:00 o'clock. The Undergraduate Luncheon was held at 12:00 noon with Bro. Floyd Shepherd as toastmaster. The third business session started at 1:30 p. m. Before the election of officers the convention was addressed by Bro. C. Anderson Davis, editor of The Sphinx Magazine. The Formal Banquet was held at 7:30 p. m. The Banquet Address was delivered by Bro. James L. Cummings. The formal dance followed the banquet. Other addresses delivered during the
convention; Keynote address: "Reclammation or Else" Bro. E. C. Collins "Role of the Older Graduate Bro." Bro. Joseph Taylor "Role of the Undergraduate Bro." Bro. Floyd Shepherd Awards were presented as follows: Outstanding Graduate Chapter Alpha Zeta Lambda, Bluefield, W. Va. Outstanding Undergradute Chapter Epsilon, University of Michigan Outstanding Graduate Brother Gus Ridgel, Gamma Beta Lambda, Frankfort, Ky. Outstanding Undergraduate Bro. Floyd Shepherd, Alpha Tau, University of Akron Thirty brothers were entered into the Midwestern Regional Hall of Fame. Certificates were presented by Bro. A r nold W. Wright.
THE SPHINX
Twenty-five Year Men: Bro. Young reading the citation to Alphas of Eta Lambda at Southern Regional Banquet. First row: Bros. L . M. N e w s o m . Charles Walker, A. C. Banks, W. Bolden, P. Whatley, H e m a n Sweatt, Judge A. T. Walden, E. Alexander, G. Taylor and R. Brisbane. Second row: J. McGhee, H. E. Craig, J. Henderson, M. Amos, T. Fagan, M. Wright. A. J. Martin, T. Johnson, E. Thomas, C. W. Greene, H. Carroll and A. J. L e w i s II.
Some program participants. Southern Regional Conference, Atlanta, Ga. L-R; Bros. Lionel H. N e w s o m , chapter president; C. Anderson Davis. Editor - The Sphinx; Morris DeLisser. director of N A A C P Life Memberships; Eugene Craig, Charles W. Greene. James Huger, Gus T. Ridgel.
CONVENTIONS SOUTHERN REGIONAL CONVENTION The Southern Regional Convention convened in the Waluhaje Hotel, Atlanta, Ga., March 26-28, 1964. Host chapters were: Eta Lambda, Bro. Lionel H. Newsom, president; Iota, Bro. Ronald Sims, president; Alpha Phi, Bro. John Shockley, president; Alpha Rho, Bro. Willis Sheftall, president. The convention chairman was Bro. A. J. Martin. The convention theme: "Alpha's Response to Changing Fraternity Life in America." The opening session was called to order at 12:00 noon, Friday, by Bro. H. A. Collier, Georgia State Director. Welcome addresses were heard, officers were introduced, committees were a p pointed and state directors reported. A Memorial Service was observed for the late Bro. W. W. Whetstone who passed away during his tenure as the Southern Vice President.
DECEMBER 1964
Mrs. Bland Beatty. Pres. of the A l p h a b e n e s of Atlanta presents to Bro. George Smith. Pres. of the Student Body and an honor student at Clark College, a scholarship. Looking o n in admiration are Bro. Lionel H. N e w s o m . Pres. of Eta Lambda and Bro. Hubert Ross. Chairman. Education for Citizenship Committee.
The second business session was held at 4:30 p. m. with Bro. Walter Washington, acting vice president, presiding. The Keynote Address was delivered by Bro. C. Anderson Davis, editor of The Sphinx magazine. The Undergraduate address was delivered by Bro. David A. Dowdy, Southern Vice President. The Alphabettes of Atlanta sponsored a Cocktail Party in the Bamboo Room of the Waluhaje Hotel at 7:30 p. m. and the Pan-Hellenic Dance followed at 10:00 p. m. in the Ballroom. The third business session was called to order Saturday morning at 9:00 a. m. Reports were heard and other items of business were transacted. A survey of the national organization was given by Bro. Laurence T. Young, general secretary. Workshops were as follows: 1. Problems iriVolvecI in Undergraduate Relationships. 2. Local Chapter Participation in the National Program. 3. Problems of Rushing - Probation and Initiation.
An Inspirational Message was delivered by Bro. Morris DeLisser, NAACP Life Membership director. The fourth business session was held at 4:15 p. m. The Formal Banquet was held at 7:30p. m. Bro. T. W. Cole, general president, delivered the banquet address. Remarks were given by Bro. Judge A. T. Walden who was presented a plaque for outstanding services to the community and nation by Eta' Lambda. Twenty-five year certificates were presented by Bro. L. T. Young. The Formal Dance followed the banquet at 10:00 p. m. • • • • * ETA ETA LAMBDA CHAPTER Annapolis, Maryland Eta Eta Lambda Chapter will host the 1965 Eastern Regional Convention in the Historic City of Annapolis M a r y land. Plan to Include the Convention in your Spring Calendar. Watch the February issue for more details. Address all inquiries to Bro. Isaac Johnson, 2020 Forest Drive, Annapolis, Maryland.
PAGE 15
Central Theme:
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"Communication - Excellence . . . Key To Equality"
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CONVENTIONS HIGHLIGHTS OF THE EASTERN REGIONAL CONVENTION, ALBANY, NEW YORK, MAY 8 - 9 Nearly one hundred and fifty Alpha men attended a two day regional convention held in Albany, New York, honoring the late and beloved Jewel George B. Kelly. The two day session was filled with scholarly discussion on two subjects: (1) "Operations Crossroads" and Africa, and (2) Youth and Alpha's Role in Aiding Negro Youth in Our Eastern Communities. On Friday night, May 7, the famed Bro. James Robinson of "T. V. Shakespearian Quiz" renown, delivered a stirring address on the so-called Dark Continent. He shed so much light on the subject that a reception for him afterwards took on the proportions of a state affair. On May 8 a panel discussion moderated by Bro. Frank Ellis discussed the Youth Program in relation to the problems and some possible directions for programming. Panelists were Bro. Marvin Riley, Bro. J e r r y Martin, Bro. Louis Maples, and Bro. Otha Brown. All were experts in areas of youth work, rehabilitation, labor or guidance. The social evening was highlighted with a banquet at which Belford V. Lawson orated and during which Mrs. Kelly, the widow of our late Jewel, was presented a pastel portrait of her husband. Bro. Poyor and Bro. Johnson and the entire Albany group were excellent hosts throughout.
CONVENTION IN CHICAGO by Bro. Sidney A. Jones, Jr. The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity members in Chicago are making plans for the finest convention in the Fraternity's history when the brothers assemble in Chicago in August 8-12, 1965. Brother Bennie D. Brown, former General Secretary of the Fraternity, is General Convention Chairman, and he has assembled and organized various committees to plan and execute every detail of the Convention. Before the close of the 1964 Convention, Brother Brown had secured the beautiful Sheraton-Chicago Hotel, 505 N. Michigan Avenue as the Convention Headquarters. This fine hotel, overlooking Michigan Avenue, as well as Lake Michigan, and being located close to the shopping, theatre, and business districts, offers everything to be desired. In addition to the lovely rooms, suites, and banquet and meeting rooms, there are many attractive restaurants, coffee shops, cocktail lounges and exotic dining rooms to meet every taste. The hotel has a beautiful swimming pool and free swimming and free p a r k ing is provided for every guest. Brothers desiring to make reservations may write directly to the hotel. Rates are: $11 and up, single; $15 and up double; $4.50 per night for undergraduates, four to a room, and $5.50 with three to a room. The registration fee will be $25 for graduate brothers, and $18 for u n dergraduates. Brothers registering for this Convention will get one of the biggest entertainment and pleasure values they ever received. Some of the features will be: Sat., Aug 7, Registration and p r e convention golf tournament; Sunday,
General President Col* spaaka at Soulharn Raginoal Banquet
PAGE 18
Aug. 8, Meet a Date, and Cocktail party; Monday, Aug. 9, Pan Hellenic Dance; Tuesday, Aug 10, Undergraduate Luncheon; A Night in Hawaii, with Brother John H. Johnson, P u b lisher of Ebony and Jet as host. Wednesday, Aug. 11, Debutante Ball and Dance; Thursday, Aug. 12, Formal Banquet and Dance. In addition to the above, the Ladies have planned a luncheon, fashion show and bridge party, and sight-seeing and swimming parties. A five room suite has been provided for round-the-clock use of the undergraduates for hospitality, greetings, fraternizing. Free refreshments will be provided at all times. Many other surprises are planned by and for the undergraduates. Brother Bennett W. Stewart is president of Xi Lambda Chapter and Brother Robert Harris is president of Theta Chapter. Other Committee Chairmen include William M. Wallace, Secretary; Charles F. Lane, Finance-Budget; David L. Daniel, Registration; Charles A. Johnson, Banquet-Dance; Lewis A. H. Caldwell, Souvenir Program; Lewine M. Weaver, Printing; Harold Langrum, Entertainment; Herbert King and Stephen Carter, Hospitality; Dr. Paul V. Campbell, Photography; Lawrence Clark, Transportation; E. L. Baldwin, Jr., and Robert Harris, Undergraduate Relations; Julian Valentine and William Wallace, Pan-Hellenic Dance; Sidney A. Jones, Jr., and Eddie Madison, Publicity. Any information may be received by writing the General Chairman or any Committee Chairman at the Fraternity House, 4432 South Park Ave., Chicago, Illinois.
Bro. Lionel H. N a w s o m praaanii plaque to Bro. Judge A. T. Walden at Soulharn Regional Banquat. Sealed at far right la Bro. Sidney A Jones w h o gava remarki.
THE SPHINX
ALPHA
WORKSHOP
From The General Secretary's Desk BROTHER LAURENCE T. YOUNG Brothers: We are now on the brink of a New Year - a new Administration, - and we all ask for UNITY. We pray that those newly elected to serve Alpha Phi Alpha in 1965 be given a star to steer by, that they will cool the fevers of dissension; that they will unite us, not for personal aggrandizement but for righteousness, then we cannot fail. We pray that they will be given the courage to do the right as they see it, not seeking the favor of men or the applause of others. May the Lord give to our newly elected officers, especially the General President - Brother Lionel H. Newsom, the upward look, the dream He dreamed when He fashioned us in His image. Let them see a sign, let them move from the darkness of a m bition to the radiance of love, - from the narrow valley of self-interest to the broad plateau of Alpha Phi Alpha's common fears and hopes and needs, - and finally to the unwavering acceptance of our BROTHERHOOD.
OUR HISTORIAN: Brother Charles H. Wesley, President of Central State College, Wilberforce, Ohio retires from the post, which he has held with so much honor and dignity, in J u n e 1965. He will become the Director of Research for the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, in Washington, D. C. where he will take up residence. GOLDEN JUBILEE RECORDING: It is surprising the interest the brothers are taking in purchasing the Sphinx's Golden Jubilee Record ( L P ) . During the month of November, over 100 records have been sold to various brothers throughout the Country. The price is $4.00, - they are handled EXCLUSIVELY through National Headquarters, where the entire responsibility rests as it relates to selling and mailing. What a splendid Christmas gift they would make.
J O B OPPORTUNITIES: National Headquarters has been deluged with correspondence and conferences as it relates to job opportunities being offered by many of our industrial plants - such as I. B. M. - International Harvester, and others. We have had conferences with officials from the Social Security Board and Civil Service Commission, urging our young men to take Civil Service Examinations and otherwise qualify and enjoy the unique career opportunities being offered. NEW LIFE MEMBERS: Since the last General Convention, the following good brothers have elected to join that distinguished rank of LIFE MEMBERS of Alpha Phi Alpha: Brothers Clarence L. Reeves, Fred D. (Sgt. at Arms) Atwater. Leander R. Patton, Scott Randolph, Clarence Hayden Wilson, Booker T. Blackwell, Veil R. Wyatt, Clarence P. Horton, Clifford R. Clemmons, and Mays Charles Maxwell. Congratulations. INTERNAL STRUCTURE: The Committee on Internal Structure will meet at National Headquarters, December 27th, 28th, 1965. The Chairman - Brother John D. Buckner would certainly appreciate a return to his office - 4246 W. North Market Street, St. Louis, Missouri - the "Preferential Check List" which was distributed, and which also appears in the October issue of The Sphinx", also comments on the manual "Guide to Chapter Discussion" and other relevant matters. CELEBRATIONS: RHO CHAPTER (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) celebrated its 50th Anniversary on November 25, honoring particularly Brothers DeHaven Hinkson and Kirksey Curd - plus 50 other brothers who were awarded 25 year Membership Certificates. DELTA CHI LAMBDA (Milwaukee, Wisconsin) celebrated Annual Founders' Day, December 6th, honoring Brother William E. Finalyson and others; EPSILON TAU LAMBDA chapter (Hempstead, Texas) celebrated Founders' Day, December 6th, - on which occasion, our newly elected General President, - Brother Lionel H. Newsom delivered the Founders Day address, following which seven brothers were awarded 25 year Membership Certificates.
PERSONAL: A letter from Brother Lloyd Burrell, (Rho Lambda) Buffalo, New York states that he has been active for 42 years and constantly meets brothers who have longer tenure than his and he states . . . "I am more than ever convinced there should be a commission to study that situation, in an effort to learn why so many good brothers are inactive."
DECEMBER, 1964
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FROM THE EASTERN VICE PRESIDENT Bro. Frank W. Morris The Eastern Region will become the most program oriented section of our great fraternity during 1964-65. We have launched two great and significant programs which will become historically significant for Alpha. The Eastern Region is currently raising the funds to assure a young Negro student selected by a National program, at least one year at an overseas university. Such a first may be the catalyst for broadening the horizons for our youth. Secondly, we are now formulating the actual operation of a "Youth Guidance" Program, a sort of "big brother" approach which will touch the lives of some 500 Negro youngsters throughout the East. Bro. Otha Brown of Norwalk, Connecticut and Bro. William Ross of Philadelphia will head these programs d u r ing 1964-65. You will hear an amazing report on these programs from our
Region at the next Convention brothers. We have been in touch with many of our Chapter and State leaders and are on the move. We have visited with the Brothers in Baltimore, Annapolis and Morgan State College (Beta Alpha) . We are planning a round-up with the New York and New Jersey brothers in December. We attended Rho's 50th Anniversary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and will continue to work at keeping Alpha in the East on the move. I cannot stress to my beloved brothers how important it is for us to keep Alpha's banner high and thus, with one hand on the shoulder of our youth and the other on that banner, let us march towards the freedom and equality we seek for all men. Perhaps the great example of Alpha excellence has been seen in Massachusetts recently. A brother, and "past Eastern Vice President" of Alpha, Edward W. Brooke, was re-elected to the highest elective office held by a Negro in the United States, Attorney General
FROM THE ASSISTANT MID-WESTERN VICE PRESIDENT Bro. Robert L. Harris, Jr. Brothers of the Mid-Western Region: My first duties in office have been to contact every university with an u n dergraduate chapter in the region. I have assured the Dean of Men that A l pha is interested in her undergraduates. My pledge to them was one of excellence for the school year. With your help and the continued support of our hard working Mid-Western Vice President, Bro. Billy Jones, this goal will be realized. I have good news to report concerning Alpha Undergrad expansion in the Mid-West. Two industrious brothers are working diligently to expand Alpha
in their respective areas. Bro. Howard Manning in Rolla, Missouri and Bro. Timothy Johnson in Grand Rapids, Michigan are working towards the realization of two new undergrad chapters before the regional convention in April. I urge my fellow undergraduate brothers to reply promptly to all correspondence because communication is the key to our success. Write other chapters and seek new programs for broader horizons. Through communication, we can strengthen our bonds and solidify our region. The regional newsletters for undergrad communication which were a p proved at the general convention should facilitate our work in this area.
FROM THE ASSISTANT SOUTHERN VICE PRESIDENT Bro. Charles M. Johnson Since my installation into this office, I have had some of the most wonderful experiences any Alpha could have. In pursuing the duties of this office, I have visited chapters thus far in Tennessee, South Carolina and North Carolina. It is my greatest desire to vist each and every chapter in this region during my tenure in office. However, it may be rather impossible for me to do this, but I am asking each chapter to inform me as soon as possible as to the most opportune time to visit. The Southern Region has long been well known for its progression. 'The chapters which I have visited thus far
are continuing this tradition of Alpha and the Southern Region. Many activities and projects of various types are being carried out by the different chapters. Many of these projects will be included in the next newsletter sent out by this office. Any other chapters desiring this information may send a request to this office. It is hoped that every state will have a State Convention, and I am strongly urging each chapter to actively participate in these conventions. Direct contact is the best means of communication for many useful ideas can be shared through these personal contacts. By this time I hope each chapter has outlined its program for the year, and
PAGE 20
Bro. Frank W, Morris, Jr.
of Massachusetts. Over 90 per cent of the electorate were other than nonwhite, yet Bro. Brooke won by nearly three-quarter million votes. , Bro. Dr. Martin Luther King, Nobel Prize winner, is another proud Alpha man and we in the East and in Boston where he was educated and initiated into Alpha will forever claim him as one of us. To our young men the chronicler says, "match these stalwarts," and to our graduate men and seniors we say, "support their progress and the progress of others like them."
Bro. Robert L. Harris, Jr.
Any items of interest concerning your chapter or the fraternity should be sent to this office. With the support of each chapter, I assure you that undergraduate membership in the Mid-West shall increase to new heights.
Bro. Charles M. Johnson
I sincerely hope that some civic p r o j ect has been included in the program. There are a few points which should be emphasized for the betterment of Alpha: 1. Greater use of The Sphinx Magazine by all chapters. This is our best means of communication and it must (Continued on page 21)
THE SPHINX
(Continued from page 20) be used to the greatest extent in promoting Alpha. 2. All chapters should keep a permanent scrapbook of all endeavors. This will be a great asset in the celebration of chapter and national anniversaries. 3. We must remember that scholarship is one of the principles of our fraternity and to strive toward greater academic goals. Make plans now to attend the Regional Convention in Huntsville, Ala. It is hoped that this will be the biggest and best Southern Regional Convention ever. We as Alphas must never fall short of the best in any of our endeavors, and I say to you, "Brothers, continue in the ALPHA MANNER." The position of Asst. Vice President which you have accorded me is one that I hold in greatest esteem. I intend to serve the Southern Region and Alpha Phi Alpha through all possible facilities, with hopes of proving m y self worthy of such a position. My greatest desire is for the men of our fraternity not to sing praises and rejoice in our achievements of the past, but to strive toward greater goals which will benefit all mankind. In spite of the many services which our fraternity has rendered to mankind there are still many services to be performed, and we as Alphas must rise to the cause. We as undergraduates must create a greater interest and participation in Regional and National affairs. Alpha is not a local organization, but one whose voice resounds throughout the world. It is only fitting that all mem-
bers of the fraternity participate in the forming of its policies. Greater participation will not only be beneficial to brothers by respect of brothers well served, but will be beneficial to the fraternity. Despite the fact that undergraduate attendance at the '64 World's Fair Convention increased more than 100% over the previous year, greater undergraduate attendance at conventions is a necessity. For us not to take up the torch could prove disastrous for the fraternity. Efforts will be made to establish a regional newsletter to improve communications between the chapters. All chapters are urged to support the newsletter by sending any ideas and details of upcoming or past events and projects. Also I am requesting that the name and address of the president and secretary of each chapter be sent to: Charles M. Johnson Room 203 Smith Hall Johnson C. Smith University Charlotte, North Carolina Since a greater interest should be taken in the achievements of all brothers, I am also requesting that such information be sent to the above address. In the struggle for Civil Rights, despite the passing of the Civil Rights Bill, we as brothers (particularly u n dergraduates) must pledge ourselves to work twice as hard for its implementation as we did for its enactment into law. In response to Bro. Pres. T. Winston Cole's call for excellence in education, I urge all brothers to put forth their best in their academic endeavors in the true spirit of Alpha men.
Always remember that we as Alphas have a place in the sun, but that it is only through our deeds and services to mankind that it can be maintained. (Continued from page 11) (5) All of us should fashion our conduct, pursue our goals, and render our services with a view toward p r o viding living models for future generations of Alpha Men. No less important, our manners and morals, our personal tastes and social skills should always be worthy of emulation. (6) The proposals set forth above obviously require that individual Alpha men must become more deeply involved and more actively engaged in F r a ternity affairs. Equally important, these proposals require a significant increase in expenditures (by the individual Brother and by the General Organization). I suggest, however, that an economy here, and a sacrifice there, plus our will to preserve our Fraternity, can assure the necessary funds. (7) This seventh proposal or suggestion is basic to all the others. It calls for a return to our original image of Alpha as a Fraternity of College Men, that is men in college. Like it or not, admit it or not, the functional image of Alpha today tends to be that of an organization of college graduates. To survive in this changing world we must modify that image. In the long run, the heart of Alpha must beat on the college campuses of the nation, if it is to continue to beat at all. You and I must surely recognize that should the heart of Alpha on the campus stop beating, the body off the campus will certainly be seized by rigor mortis.
Undergraduate brothers in action - singing during intermission at formal dance at Southwestern Regional Convention.
Alpha D e l e g a t e ! to the American Negro Leadership Conference on Africa, held in October, confer with Mrs. Geraldine Woods. National President. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. The conference w a s highly successful under the leadership of Bro. Theodore Brown.
DECEMBER 1964
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Registration scene In the Washington High School. Regional Convention, Shreveport, La.
Southwestern
PAGE 21
Chapter Activities
M e m b e r s of Beta Kappa Chapter. Langston University. Langston, Okla.
ALPHA MERIT by Bro. Advergus D. James The true basis for the estimation of an organization's wealth is to be found in the enjoyment of its members. The brothers of Beta Kappa Chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., have enjoyed for the past 32 years serving Langston University, our community, our state, our nation, and our world. The men of Beta Kappa are looking forward to a prosperous, purposeful, exalting, school year _ scholastically, socially and fraternally. Beta Kappa is the largest social Greek letter organization on the Langston University campus. With the guidance of its most able graduate advisors, Bro. William Parker and Ernest Holloway, Beta Kappa experienced a most prosperous and rewarding 1963-64 competitive school year. During the past semester, Beta K a p pa held the highest membership and scholastic average among Greek F r a ternities on campus. Because of these high scholastic attainments and other achievements, individual members of
Beta received outstanding appointments and employment last summer. Listed below are only a few of tese: Bro. George Guillory, the first Negro to be employed by the Milk Marketing Association, Tulsa, Oklahoma; Bro. Stewart Gilbert, a "member of the "Operations Crossroad Africa;" Dewey Griffin, Community Lifeguard, Gutrie, Oklahoma; Bro. Robert Anderson, the first Negro to work for the United States Soil Conservation Service, Shawnee, Oklahoma; Bro. Albert Thompson, Laboratory Technician, New Haven, Conn.; Bro. Advergus James, Park Supervisor, Muskogee, Oklahoma.; Bro. John Coleman, the first Negro to work in Research Chemistry at the Halliburton Company, Duncan, Oklahoma; Bro. Kenneth Watson, Recreational Director of Oklahoma City Public Park, Oklahoma City, Okla. Socially - During the past semester Beta Kappa presented its annual "Black and White" ball. This event was held at the Ramada Inn Ballroom off the Route 66 by-pass in Oklahoma City. This occasion was rated by its over
Bro. John K. Coleman, President of Beta Kappa, presents to Bro. William H. Hale. President, Langston University, the portrait of the late Bro. Eugene "Father" Brown, a founder of Beta Kappa. Holding the portrait are Bros. Marvin Fisher and Nathaniel Smith.
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300 guests as the most outstanding display of "splendor" of the school year 1963-64. The latest endeavor of Beta Kappa has been its "Initial Ice Breaker." This social activity of splendor and exaltation was given on October 23, 1964. It was the primary social function given in the new William H. Hale Student Center. The initial Ice Breaker consisted of the coronation and selection of Miss Glenda Watson as Beta Kappa's sweetheart 1964-65, and a ball given in her honor. Citizenship - To the remembrance of Bro. Eugene "Father" Brown a portrait was dedicated. This portrait which will be hung in the lobby of Brown Hall received contributions from the Oklahoma State Conference of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. The portrait was presented to Langston University on October 18; the formal opening of the new facilities. Beta Kappa once again went down in the centennial bracket as donating $101.00 to the Langston University development Foundation. It also made contributions to the John F. Kennedy Library Fund. Scholarship - Eighteen brothers were found on the Dean's list for the past semester. The Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society recognized Bro. Carl Fields and Bro. John Coleman for their scholastic attainment in 1963-64. For the present year it has recognized brothers Stewart Gilbert and James Manns. Also, Bros. Stewart Gilbert, Paul Reagor, John Coleman, Nathaniel Smith, Advergus James, James Manns and Carl Fields were chosen to join the list of Who's Who in American Colleges and Universities for the school year 1964-65. During the summer, the organization functioned in great capacity along n a tional statutes. Beta Kappa, striving for excellence in compliance with the (Continued on page 29)
Bro. John K. Coleman, a senior in the Department of Chemistry, presents a check for $101.00 to President Hale. The check donated by m e m b e r s of Beta Kappa is the chapter's annual contribution to the Langston University Development Foundation.
THE SPHINX
ALPHA KAPPA LAMBDA CHAPTER Roanoke, Virginia
GAMMA NU LAMBDA - Lynchburg, Va. - Sealed, L-R: Bros. Gideon Smith, David Moore, Treasurer; Lawrence Ferguson, President; and Henry Weeden. (Standing) L - R . Wilbert Lewis, Secretary; Allen Thornhill, James Taylor, Benjamin Scolt and Robert Wesley.
The chapter is happy to reflect its program of 1964. In addition to celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Sphinx, the chapter awarded its annual scholarships to Dwight Walker, graduate of Addison High School and now attending Fish University and Chauncey Harmon, graduate of Carver High School, Salem, Virginia and now enrolled at Bradley University. The chapter was represented by Bro. John Dillon at the 1964 Convention. Bro. Dillon spoke very highly of the day the convention program was carried out. The chapter purchased both record albums and wishes here and now to congratulate all those who were responsible for highlighting events of this nature in a permanent state. The Annual Chapter Dance was the highlight of the year with Bros, coming from West Virginia, North Carolina and Virginia. The chapter is sponsoring a bowling team under the name of Alpha Phi Alpha in the new founded league VANG GARD. The team bowls every Tuesday night at the Loudon Lanes, a Negro owned and operated business. Members of the team are: Bros. Henry L. Fulford, Joseph Kyle, William Thomas, William Buckley, John Dillon and John Neal.
P L E A S E S E N D TO THE EDITOR Alpha Kappa Lambda - Roanoke, Va. - Annual Alpha Dance. L-R (Sealed): Bros. "Henry L. Fulford, William Buckeley, James Smaw, John Dillon and John Neal. (Back row) Bros. Alonzo Deskins. Joseph Wiggins, William Thomas, Walker Atkinson, Reginald Clarke, William Johnson, Joseph Kyle and Julian Moore.
For The February Issue Of The Sphinx: A list of those w h o m a d e the Dean's List last semester; Pictures and information about w i v e s and sweethearts of brothers; Pictures of undergraduate chapter s w e e t h e a r t s for 1964-65; and Pictures of chapter associate editors. DEADLINE January 11
MEMBERS OF OMICRON LAMBDA ALPHA, WASHINGTON, D. C
D E C E M B E R 1964
P A G E 23
MOTIVATION FOR YOUTH PROJECT REPORT by Bro. Eddie V. Easley Beginning in October, 1964, the following groups have worked together on the Motivation for Youth Project Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternitv, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and Wilkie House. We have been able to follow through on one of the three major projects outlined in the fall. The projects were: (1) Study Hall (2) Vocational Exploration, and (3) Remedial Reading. Studv Hall We have been able to secure some resource material which is used to a small degree at the Wilkie House Library Room. We were unable to secure sufficient volunteers to operate (with assistance) as often as planned. The Study Hall is ooen, however, on >*>^nHav evenines with assistance from Wilkie House Staff. Resource m a t e r ials are available upon request at other times during the week. Vocational Exploration ' Y o u r Job F u t u r e " - monthly sessions held on the third Saturday afternoon have been consistent. October Introduction of Program. "The What and Why of Vocational Exploration", "Job Opportunities". Attendance - 6 youth - 10 adults. November - Opportunities in Business. "Careers in Telephone Co.", "Auto Repair and Body Shop", "Data Processing". Attendance - 12 youth - 5 adults. December Session not held because of conflicting Christmas activities and interests. J a n uary - Film - "Job Opportunities" Coke Party. Attendance 75 youth 8 adults. February - Civil Service Jobs. Social Security Administration, Internal Revenue, Postal Services and Police Force. Attendance - 35 youth - 12 adults. March - Tour - Iowa Methodist Hospital - Attendance 17 youth - 4 adults. The Motivation for Youth Committee proposes and recommends that each participating group be assigned a specific group of youths to work with on a continuing Big Sister - Big Brother basis. It is felt that such an arrangement and plan will enable us to b e come better acquainted with the youth and to offer more individual services. Remedial Reading We are in the process of securing scholarships to be used for payment of the fee $8.50 per pupil charged for the summer school remedial reading p r o gram offered by the Des Moines Board of Education. This assistance will be offered through the Board of Education.
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BRO. CHARLES L. BIVINS STARS WITH THE CHICAGO BEARS Bro. Charles L. Bivins (49) FB, 212, 6'2", joined the Bears in 1960. A r e serve back again in 1963, he saw most service in a single game against the Colts at Baltimore as he netted 36 yards on 11 attempts. Most of those came on the Bear's final sequence of offensive plays during which Bro. Bivins carried nine of 16 times for 34 yards net, including two first down slashes. Once, he carried the ball four consecutive times for a total of 27 yards. This drive from their 24 to the Baltimore 8, with the Bears leading 14-7, was climaxed by a field goal that clinched the win. Bro. Bivins is a graduate of Morris Brown and was initiated into Eta Lambda, J a n u a r y 22, 1962.
* * * * * BETA MU CHAPTER On the campus of Kentucky State College, Frankfort, Ky., as well as other college campuses throughout the nation, Alpha represents excellence in scholarship, manly deeds, athletics, leadership, and general college activities. The president, Bro. Sterling Neal, is also president of the Sociology Club and of the Senior Class, and secretary of the McCullin Hall Club. Bro. John Huggins is president of the Pan Hellenic Council and Bro. Carson Smith is chairman of the Student Union Board. The following brothers were elected to Who's Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities: Sterling Neal, Donald Hyton, Wendell Whyte and Kenneth Roberts. Beta Mu is represented on the v a r sity football team by Donald Hyton and Ronald Norris. Bro. Hyton was named to the All-Midwestern Conference football team. Beta Mu is usually at the top of the Fraternity Honor Roll, Our grade point average for the first semester, 1963-64, was 2.78 (4 point system). Bro. Doye
GAMA P H I LAMBDA ELECTS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE by Bro. John F. Cooke On November 7, at a meeting cohosted by Bros. Herman Long, Harold Cotton and Charles Minor, Gamma Phi Lambda, Oakland, Calif., elected the following 1964-65 executive committee: President, Bro. Harold Davis; Vice President, Bro. Ted Felton; Recording Secretary, Bro. Olen McKinney; Corresponding Secretary, Bro. Lloyd Vann; Financial Secretary, Bro. Maurice Henderson; Treasurer, Bro. Donald Smith; Associate Editor of The Sphinx, John Cooke; Chaplain, Rogevnald Jackson. Custodian, Bro. Lozelle King; Sergeant at arms, Bro. Jimmie Bruce.
* * * * * THETA THETA LAMBDA CHAPTER by Bro. James E. Williams, J r . Theta Theta Lambda Chapter, F r a n k furt on Main, Germany, passes another milestone in Alpha history as it initiates the first Alpha in continental Eurqpe. Bro. William Edward Hoskins has "crossed the burning sands" at 1920hrs 27 J u n e 1964 at Gibbs Chapel, Gibbs Kaserne, Frankfurt on Main, W. Germany, a dentistry student at Erlangen University, distinguished himself by becoming the first Alpha "made" in continental Europe and the first Neophyte of Theta Theta Lambda Chapter. Brothers who participated in this history making event included Clarence E. Mosley, Elridge W. McMillan, Jr.. James E. Williams, Jr., Jewel Williams. George H. Essex, Jr., Jesse J. Harris, Paul Harper, Talmadge C. Foster, William Greene, Lindley Hamilton. An Alpha Feast and brotherhood smoker was held at Zur- "Schonen Aussicht", Gastwirtschaft - Metzgerei. Ffm-Berkersheim, Am Herrenhof Nr 10, W. Germany, immediately after the iniation. The evening terminated with a stag party at the residence of Bro. Clarence E. Mosley.
DEADLINE FOR MATERIALS FOR THE FEBRUARY ISSUE OF THE SPHINX JANUARY 11, 1965
Blane, a chemistry major, leads the chapter with a 3.62 overall average for five semesters. He was also a recipient of an Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Undergraduate Scholarship for 1963 -64. Bro. Wendell Whyte received the 1963-64 scholarship award from Gamma Beta Lambda Chapter.
THE SPHINX
NU LAMBDA CHAPTER by Bro. Edward L. Smith Nu Lambda, Petersburg, Va., is indeed happy and proud to have with us again Bro. Wallace VanJackson, who returned to the Virginia State College on February 1, 1964, from Lagos, Nigeria where he served for fifteen months as Asquisitions Librarian and Deputy Library Director in the National Library of Nigeria. During this time, ex-patriots worked with Nigerians in establishing what is believed will become the most important National Library in West Africa. Bro. VanJackson brought back to us much information of great interest. Briefly, he reminded us that the wealth of natural resources, the intelligence and vitality of the people and the wholesome outlook on the future make Nigeria the most promising country in the fast-moving continent of Africa. According to Bro. VanJackson, Alpha is represented by American brothers in Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone among Peace Corpsmen, civil servants, the professions and business employees. The time may soon come, he stated, that a Nigerian chapter of the Fraternity will be established. Changing the scene from "overseas' to the "home front" we focus our attention to Bro. and Mrs. Robert P. Daniel who recently attended a White House Dinner given by President and Mrs. Johnson. The Daniel's were greatly impressed by the warm and pleasant atmosphere of the State Dinner given by President and Mrs. Lyndon Johnson for British Prime Minister Sir Alec Douglas-Home and his wife. They, the Daniel's were among 136 guests who attended the Dinner, and were joined by 200 additional guests for the dancing which followed in the East Room.
DELTA NU CHAPTER by Bro. Douglas Hutchins Since this is a newsletter from Delta Nu, Princess Anne, Md., we would not want to talk too much abut the things that are now ancient history. The only thing I would like to say about the beginning of the year is that it was indeed a success. As in the case of the past five or six years, Alphas were appointed to nearly every major position on Maryland State's campus. Just to mention a few; Bro. Lewis Powell, president of the Student Council; Bro. John Knight, president of the Men Senate; Bro. Ambrose Jerald, president of the Panhellenic Council; and Bro. Clarence Turner, vice president of the Y. M. C. A., and all of the
DECEMBER 1964
other offices not held by Alphas are in the capable hands of prospective members. Moving on to a more recent event, we should perhaps mention our "Smoker". This was, without a doubt, the most elaborate smoker ever to be p r e sented on our campus. Our speaker was our own Bro. Dr. Claud C. Marion, head of the Department of Agriculture. We must give credit to our brothers of Gamma Sigma from Delaware State for helping to add to the atmosphere of the evening. Our advisor, Bro. Hytche, took charge of the food preparation. Whether or not the proverb, "The best way to man's heart is through his stomach", is true or not, we did receive thirty letters for entrance into the pledge club. If my mathematical c a l c u l a t i o n s are correct, I would say that this year will witness our membership to be the largest yet. Still later in our news we come to our civil rights movements. Earler this year, Bro. Ed Davis had made an attempt to reactivate a branch of the NAACP on the campus, which he is still in the process of doing, but then this problem of segregation came up and there was nothing left to do but fight it with what we had. Thus, the march on the little town of Princess Anne began. On the first day everything was going on in an orderly fashion. The first sign of violence came from the police force. At that very moment, Bro. Davis and I were up in the front of it all. I had no idea what he had planned to do at that time, though I was hoping it would be done
together. I was soon to find out that a pair of handcuffs could bond two brothers rather closely also, then all of a sudden I was picked out of the crowd - the first to go. - With about seven troopers around me, it was quite difficult seeing what was going on Yet, still out of the dense crowd I felt the handcuff go on another hand, and a comforting arm around my waist. It was not until I was in the trooper's car that my eyes cleared and I spotted the shield - it was Bro. Davis there beside me. The two of us were released that night on a $1,000 bond a piece, but the next day we went back to jail for demonstrating again, this time the bond was only a $100.00. But we used the words of Douglas MacArthur as we left, "We shall return!" On the 28th, Bro. Dick Gregory came down to give us a few pointers and a little inspiration to carry on the fight to the end. The next event on our calendar is our annual visit to the high schools in this area, and our go-to-high-school, go-to-college" program will start on the first of April.
If any Brother failed to receive the "Golden Jubilee Edition" of The Sphinx please let us know about it. We have a few copies that we would be glad to send you. A number of copies were returned because of incorrect address, possibly your copy was in that number.
DELTA OMICRON LAMBDA - Maryland Slaie College. Prlncefl Anne. Md. Sealed. L-R: Bros. Marion, McCain. Treasurer; Hytche, President; Holliday, Evans. Secretary; and Laws. Standing. L-R: Bros. Vaughn. Dowdy. Turner, Briggs, DeVane, Harris. Associate Editor to The Sphinx; King, Moore and Crossling. The w i v e s and sweethearts party w a s held at the Holiday Inn in Salisbury. Md. A contribution will be made to the NAACP. The chapter will take part in the annual Go-to-Hlgh School. Go-to-College campaign and will visit approximately fifteen high schools. Delta Nu chapter works with us on this program.
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ETA CHI LAMBDA - Rockland County, N. Y. - L-R: Bros. Clarence Branch, Jr., Laurence H. Holland, Edward J. Vincent, Walter C. Blount, Jr., Robert W. Woods, Jr., Harry B. Dunbar, President; Robert W. Jones, Russell Sisco, Albert Holland, Eugene Deloatch.
ALPHA ZETA LAMBDA - Bluefield. W. Va.. celebrated the Golden Jubilee of the Sphinx Magazine at the Alpha House, Sunday, April 12, 2:00 p. m. Presiding w a s Bro. J. A. Shellon. Music was under the direction of Bro. C. D. Reece, Head of the Department of Music, Bluefield State College. The anniversary address w a s delivered by Bro. C. Anderson Davis, editor of The Sphinx. Special honors were given to twenty-five year brothers. The chapter's t w o fifty year brothers were given special citations, Bros. J. Claude Kingslow and J. A. Shelton. A full course dinner was served preceding the program. Alpha wives, guests, and brothers of Beta Theia, Bluefield State College, participated in all of the activities. The picture above shows a group discussing the Sphinx magazine and admiring the Anniversary Cake. Bro. J. C. Kingslow, a fifty year brother, shows a plaque w o n by Alpha Zeta Lambda, presented by the Midwestern region for the most outstanding chapter. Sealed far right is the chapter's other fifty year brother, J. A. Shelton.
S o m e of the m e m b e r s and guests of Alpha Zeta Lambda share the Sphinx Golden Jubilee Birthday Cake, being served by Mrs. Bernice Martin, president of the Alpha Wives. This w a s during the social period, after the dinner a'nd program celebrating the Sphinx 50ih Anniversary.
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DELTA TAU SALUTES A BROTHER by Bro. Eugene Williams Delta Tau Chapter at Saint Paul's College, Laurenceville, Va., is in its twelfth year of service to Alpha Phi Alpha. The brothers of Delta Tau, "striving to hold ever aloft noble ideals and aims", initiated a proud and happy neophyte on the night of December 14, 1963. The new brother is Bro. Leslie Smith, Jr., a sophomore from Suffolk, Virginia. Our new brcth<=r has a'i~ht the spirit of the chapter and congratulations are due him. At the end of the first semester of 1963-64, he had achieved the second highest position on the Dean's List, spcrt'ng an average of 2.75 on the 3.0 system. Aside from his academic honors, Bro. Smith has achieved distinction and recognition in various leadership positions on campus. He is a member of the NAACP, chairman of its Education Committee, member of the Student-Facult" Council, the Associated Men's Council, Associate-Editor of the Student Journal and chapter secretary of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. We salute Bro Smith as he climbs onward and upward following the guiding light of "manly deeds, scholarship, and love of all m a n kind." In keeping with the aims and ideal' of Alpha, we look forward to a vear of greater achievement. The members of Delta Tau, Bros. Eugene Williams. Earl Mabry, Herbert McNeal, Freddie Smith, and Leslie Smith, Jr., stand ever ready to hold high the banner of Alpha Phi Alpha for we are "first of all, servants of all, we shall transcend all."
THE SPHINX CHAPERONES ALPHA'S ANNUAL SPRING FORMAL AT MANGER Delta Alpha Lambda - Cleveland, Ohio: A three-hundred pound gold sphinx head, chipped from ice, chaperoned dancers from the Maceo Smith Bandstand when the Delta Lambda Chapter staged its annual spring formal in the main ballroom of the Manger Hotel. Sphinx heads were everywhere because the theme for the grand ball was the 50th anniversary of SPHINX, the National Fraternity Magazine. Large profile sphinx heads approved the dashing gents and gracious ladies from the wall of the ballromm. Gold tablecloths with large sphinx heads in the center adorned the tables. Gold and black matches, with sphinx, which is also the Alpha symbol, were given away as souvenirs. Even the invitations were gold with a large black sphinx on the front.
THE SPHINX
EPSILON CHAPTER A reception for the visiting Tuskegee Institute Choir was held on the campus of the University of Michigan. The initial impetus for this project came from Epsilon Chapter, but in order to broaden the base of support for this endeavor, Alpha Kappa Alpha and Delta Sigma Theta Sororities and K a p pa Alpha Psi Fraternity acted as cohosts. The four groups also sponsored a "Get Acquainted Social" for the visitors. The choir gave a public performance and was well received by the community. The members of Epsilon chapter took particular pride in the rendition of two excellent solos by Bro. Soloman Green of Gamma Phi. The audience concurred in our judgement of Bro. Green's performance by its enthusiastic applause. In alternate years, Epsilon Chapter has sponsored an "Alphagras" in connection with the campus-wide carnival type activity known as "Michigras". This year we will cooperate with the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority in entering a float in the Michigras parade. The Brothers are looking forward to the reinvigoration which the Regional Convention is expected to provide the chapter. The delegation will be carrying materials relating to the chapter's program for the year. By exchanging materials and ideas, the chapters in the Midwest and all chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha can continue that growth which has made this Fraternity the foremost in the land. Epsilon hereby pledges to always do its part in maintaining that top position. With that aim in mind, Epsilon closes by sending fraternal regards to all Brothers.
GAMMA PSI CHAPTER by Bro. Octavius Rowe This year is proving to be a very active one for Gamma Psi Chapter, Saint Augustine's College, Raleigh, North Carolina. The brothers of Gamma Psi are diligently doing their part in fraternity activities and especially in personal achievements, thus showing to the campus that Alpha is truly a living fraternity of men dedicated to objectives of brotherhood and the better making of men. The brothers of Gamma Psi have adapted as their theme this year, "We shall overcome." Since the establishment of this chapter on this campus, November 7, 1947, Gamma Psi has fewer members than ever in the chapter this year, due to graduation. There are seven members now, referred to as the "Seven Sons of Alpha." These brothers are: Theodore Brown, Octavius Rowe, John Larkins, Erick Maye, Charles Simpson, William Miles, and Richard Peterson. Recently we observed our 17th Anniversary of Gamma Psi Chapter. On our anniversary, we presented an Alpha (Soiree) Evening Party. In its endeavor to make known to the unacquainted students that Alpha is indeed an active fraternity on this campus, Gamma Psi presented to the campus fall probation fifteen Sphinxmen, with aspirations to carry them across the burning sands into Alphaland. Gamma Psi projects for the year include; obtaining an Alpha house, building an Alpha water fountain plot on
Epsilon'* Fall Smoker - Bro. Elmer C. Collins, talks Informally with undergraduates at t h e University of Michigan's Smoker. In background to the left. Bro. Reginald James of Mu Lambda. Washington. D. C , talks with Bro. Thomas J. Bass of Theta Zeta Lambda, A n n Arbor. Michigan.
DECEMBER 1964
the college quadrangle. Also, the brothers will observe Alpha Week, starting December 1 to December 4, 1964. Speakers for the occasion include: General President, Lionel H. Newsom of Barber Scotia College, Concord, N. C ; Bro. Floyd McKissick, Chairman of the Congress of Racial Equality; and Bro. James A. Cheek, President of Shaw University, Raleigh, N. C. One brother of Gamma Psi Chapter is currently studying in Paris at the University of Lonne. He is Bro. Cardell Black, French major, who hails from Detroit, Mich. He was granted an International Fellowship to finish his last year of undergraduate study in Paris. We truly salute Bro. Black for u p holding the burning and everlasting torch of Gamma Psi Chapter here at Saint Augustine's, Raleigh, N. C. Truly Alpha Phi Alpha leads the way in whatever categories we find in college life. We have walked silently, laying a foundation for others to follow. The achievements have been numerous and we wish to acknowledge only a few. Recently, Bro. John Larkins was inducted into the Alpha Kappa Mu National Honor Society for his high scholastic achievements. Bro. William Miles was listed in Who's Who in American Colleges and Universities" for his scholastic achievements. Also, he is a Woodrow Wilson Fellowship recipient, President of Beta Kappa Chi, Science Honor Society. Truly, it's great to be an Alpha.
EPSILON CO-SPONSORS NEGRO HISTORY WEEK - Bro. Emmext Hagood presides at the opening session of the Negro History Week Observance. Prof. Robert Harris (seated at right) Univ. of Michigan Law School. Spoke o n the topic: "Law and Politics: Are t h e y useful tools In t h e struggle for racial equality?". Dr Albert H. Wheeler (seated In center) of the University of Michigan Medical School, w a s presented a citation for his work with local civil rights organisations. Miss Laura Moseley. A K A Sorority, made the presentation.
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GREATER DELTA PHI by Bro. Johnny Tolliver Delta Phi Chapter, located at Jackson State College, Jackson, Miss., commenced this school term with the largest fraternity on the campus with a current membership of twenty-one a b led, devout, and popular (with the girls) brothers. Truthfully, our chapter excels the other fraternities on our campus in scholarship, achievement, and social activities; and never before has the fraternal spirit reached such an apex as it has this year. We are confident that this year will embrace our most successful year in the history of Delta Phi. Our program and budget has been adopted for the year. We plan this term to still publish our Christmas magazine, "The Yuletide", of which we plan to send our neighboring chapters a copy, one to each regional office, and national headquarters. Our rush party has already been a success, and along with the publication of this magazine, which was a success on our campus, will result in a burgeoning of our image here on the campus. Tentatively, we also plan to sponsor a tri-chapter Sweetheart Ball, jointly with the other two chapters in the state. This would really be an ecstatic culmination of this current school year, and we sincerely contemplate the cooperation of Delta Kappa Chapter at Alcorn A & M College, and Gamma Upsilon Chapter at Tougaloo College. We are in the process of making plans of entertainment for the brothers who will attend the State Convention of Alpha Phi Alpha, which will be held on our campus this year. These events will highlight Delta Phi's 1964-65 school year, along with our myriad campus and civic activities. We extend our sincere wishes for a year of success and achievements to other chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha F r a t e r n ity, Inc., and, especially, to The Sphinx. "Auf Wiedersehen" from Delta Phi.
* * * * * BETA NU KEEPS ON STRIVING by Bro. William L. Gaston All of the members of Beta Nu, Florida A & M University, take this opportunity to greet all Alpha Men everywhere and to wish you God speed as you continue to strive for "scholarship, manly deeds, and love for all m a n kind." Beta Nu chapter continues to standout in its ability to lead and to exhibit academic proficiency. Brothers whom we have chosen to lead us are: President, Clarence Thomas; Vice President, Samuel Lloyd; Recording Secretary, Everett Fleming; Corresponding Secre-
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tary. Council Miller; Treasurer, Noble Nissle; Associate Editor to the Sphinx, William L. Gaston; Dean of Pledgees, Samuel Aaron; Assistant Dean of Pledgees, Ronald Thompson; Historian, Kenneth McFarlin; Parliamentarian, Henry E. Cotman. We are tremendously proud of the services that are being rendered by the twenty-four members of our organization. Elaborating on the subject "The strong get stronger and the weak fades away.". The men of Beta Nu are strong!! And we are using our increasing powers to help others to strive for academic excellence, manly deeds, and love for all mankind because we are the atomic structure from which these qualities originate. Among the campus positions held by undergraduate Alpha men are: ROTC Battalion Commander and Staff, Senior Class President, President of Social Board, Assistant Social Director, Chief Justice of Traffic Court, Chief Justice of Honor Court, President of Pre-Medical Club, President of Mathematics Club, President of Chemistry Club, and President of FBLA Club. The chapter has maintained first place in academic standings among Greek-letter organizations on the campus since its origin in 1932 and Beta Nu will continue to achieve and strive toward excellence forever. * * * * * THE AWAKENING ALPHAS by Bro. Herman C. Bagley The Alpha Omicron Chapter of J o h n son C. Smith University, Charlotte, North Carolina, is beginning to come to life. Wonderful things have happened over the past several months. Bro. Leon Vanderhall, Biology m a jor and star tennis player from Highpoint, N. C , had the highest scholastic average of any athlete oyer a four year period. Bro. Vanderhall is now doing graduate work at Temple University in Pennsylvania. Bro. Dick Gregory honored us with his presence in Charlotte in October. For his work in the field of Human Rights we presented him with a silver cup. The brothers of Alpha Omicron gave the second annual coronation of Miss Alpha Phi Alpha on October 9, 1964. Our choice this year was Miss Barbara Crawford, a sophomare beauty from Cowpens, S. C. The coronation was attended by all the brothers of Alpha Omicron and some from Beta Nu Lambda. The guest speaker was Bro. John Davis, the President of Beta Nu Lambda. Bro. Charles Henry Clay White II, a Political Science major, from New
Bern, N. C. was elected president of the student body. Bro. White is also president of Alpha Omicron and is very active in community affairs. Bro. Charles M. Johnson, a Chemistry major from New York, was elected assistant vice-president of the Southern Region for the year 1964-65 at the last General Convention. Bro. Johnson is an honor student at Johnson C. Smith. University. The brothers of Alpha Omicron r e ceived the award for having the prettiest and most meaningful float in the homecoming parade on October 24, 1964. The float was chosen because it exemplified best the theme for homecoming: "Education through Vocational Excellence", and for its originality. Bro. Bobby Wilson, a junior and Biology major, from Winston-Salem, N. C , designed the float and the dress worn by the queen. The float was widely acclaimed by all who viewed it. Our queen added a special touch of elegance. For the first time in the history of our chapter we have undertaken an educational project. Bro. James A. Ray, a Social Science major and honor student from Abbeville, S. C , is the chairman of this project. The brothers donate one night a week to tutoring culturally deprived children in various community centers. We felt by doing this we are serving a helping hand where it is most needed. We hope that this project will inspire other brothers who are not contributing in any way to the welfare of their chapter and their fraternity.
* * * * * AWARD WINNER Wilbert L. Smith, a Field Underwriter in this office and a graduate of Tougaloo College, has won the coveted Career Conference Award for new Mutual Of New York underwriters. Mr. Smith joined our organization in August, 1963 and immediately established his preeminence in the insuring of the most lives of any of his colleagues who joined Mutual Of New York anywhere in the country in their first year.
THE SPHINX GOLDEN JUBILEE RECORD ALBUM May be purchased from The National Headquarters (See information
on back
cover)
THE SPHINX
rection of the work as it progresses, including changes in his budget and time schedule. Formal acceptance of the funds for the research was made by Bro. George W. Gore, Jr., to whom Research Corporation's check in the amount of $2,500 was transmitted.
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Brother J. E. Jackton
Brother Herbert W. Jone»
ETA OMICRON LAMBDA by Bro. P. R. Hough Eta Omicron Lambda Chapter, Rock Hill, S. C , sends best wishes to each of you. May this year be a year that all of your aspirations are realized, and every effort be fruitful. We should be especially proud to be affiliated with such a great organization as Alpha Phi Alpha and special praise should be given to the Golden Anniversary Committee. Here's hoping that their effort will bring many a stray brother again into the fold of A Phi A. Though we have been absent from the pages of The Sphinx, we have been working unceasingly to hold high the banner of A Phi A. Eta Omicron L a m b da will be host to the Regional which will convene early next year. With the following brothers at the helm: J. E. Jackson, president; Willie L. Cain, vice president; E. M. Smith, recording secy; Eddie Jackson, corresponding secy: Horace Goggins, treasurer; P. R. Hough, associate editor The Sphinx; W. B. White, chaplain; P. L. Felder, Dean of Pledgees, Hugh Holcombe, parliamentarian, we face the future with high hopes. • » * * * BRO. JONES AWARDED GRANT Bro. Herbert W Jones, professor of physics at Florida A & M University, is the recipient of a Frederick Gardner Cottrell grant-in-aid in the amount of $2,500 from the Research Corporation Division of Grants, New York City. The grant will aid the FAMU p r o fessor's research program entitled, "The Detection of Helium by Stepwise Resonance Radiation." Made by the Research Corporation board of directors on recommendation of the advisory committee, the grant is intended as a contribution to the academic and scientific program of Florida A & M University. The grant carries no connotation of an agreement whereby the university or the personnel who may participate in the research undertake responsibilities to Research Corporation. Bro. Jones will have complete freedom to make changes in the emphasis or di-
DECEMBER 1964
CONGRATULATIONS by Bro. E. David Shepherd Congratulations to Bro. Gussie L. Daniels, a '64 graduate of Texas Southern University, who will enter Yale University to start graduate work in economics. Thanks to a $3,800 fellowship given by Yale University. Best wishes to Bro. Robert Burns, a '64 Morehouse graduate, who will enter a Seminary School in Philadelphia this fall. Texas Southern University can look forward to an eventful year starting this fall with Alpha men, James Douglas and Leon Hardy, president of the student council and co-captain of the football team, respectively. The University of Illinois Navy ROTC Drill Team should really look sharp this year with Bro. Sidney Jones, III as its commander. Good luck and our wholehearted support goes to Bro. Robert Harris as he prepares to succeed the personable Bro. Floyd Shepherd as our Midwestern Assistant Vice President. Best wishes go to Bro. Leon L. Dixon as he prepares to begin Ph. D work in mathematics at the University of Iowa this fall. Bro. Ashland Brown reports that the brothers of Gamma Rho Chapter, Puddue University, will have their own "House of Alpha" this fall. Special congratulations and thanks go to Bro. C. Anderson Davis and his staff for the time, honored memento of our dear A Phi A - The Fiftieth Anniversary Edition of The Sphinx magazine. *
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GAMMA PI LAMBDA by Bro. Julian C. Spence Again this spirited chapter in the "All-American" city of Galveston, Tex., on the strand of the Great Gulf Coast, has another first added to its laurels. The Alphabettes and Sweethearts were again entertained by their respective shipmates, who so royally undertake this as one of their annual affairs. This chapter can boast as having been the first predominately Negro group to use the facilities of one of the famous "Jack Tar" establishments. The Biracial Committee has been instrumnetal in helping to retain Galveston as an "All-American City" along with the many council members, merchants and civic leaders, by completely
opening the doors to all the public and many private facilities. Naturally, Alpha Phi Alpha is well represented. Our presence at Jack Tar was welcomed and all courtesies were extended us. The decor of the "Oak Room" was of traditional red and white in its entirety. Upon arrival we sipped cocktails and munched hors d'oeuvres until the dinner chimes were pealed. What could have been more appetizing than the four course meal we enjoyed, which consisted of cold Vichyssoise, Chef's salad, cornish hens stuffed with wild rice, trimmed with stewed apple slices; peas, hot rolls and coffee. Following the Entree' was peppermint parfaits. Hats off to Bros. Charles Scott, R. H. Stanton, Jr.. President Frank Windom and Jack Sweatt for such a well planned evening. Now I can understand why they say, "If the Alphas can't do it, it can't be done." We are proud of our active group, our financial brothers at the University of Texas Medical School, who fellowshipped with us, and our present group on observation that is preparing to cross the sands to Alphadom. (Continued from page 22) decorum of the institution was elected "Outstanding Undergraduate Chapter of the year. At the national convention, Beta K a p pa was presented the first-place trophy for its outstanding scrapbook. This trophy is to be added to the trophy previously acquired at Shreveport, Louiniana, at the Southwestern Regional Convention. Group as well as individual accomplishments once again launched Beta Kappa into a "Status-quo First" orbit. Conforming with our motto "First of all, Servants of All, we Shall Transcend All," the brothers of Beta Kappa are taking part in practically all campus activities. Brothers who have been elevated to positions of esteem for the school year of 1964 and 65 are: Bros. Carl Fields, president of the Aggie Club and the Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society; William Garrett, superintendent of the Sundav School and president of the Baptist Student Union; Nathaniel Smith, president of the Math Club and Student Religious Activities Organization; Paul Reagar, president of the senior class, and defensive captain of the football team; David Forrest, offensive captain of the football team; Advergus James, president of Future Business Leaders Association; James Manns, president of the Junior Class; John Williams, president of the Y. M. C. A.; George Brown, president of the S. N. E. A; Stewart Gilbert, president of the Student Senate and J o h n Coleman vice-President.
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Bro. Albert Ferguson, Sr., Theta Delta Lambda, El Paso, Texas, presents the first annual scholarship awards t o J a m e s Moultrie, Jr. and Mrs. Ehhel Williams (receiving the award for her son. Welbon Williams). Back row, L-R: Bros. Clayton L. Rivers, Arlhur L. Hart, Robbin E. L. Washington and Cordell Olive.
DELTA UPSILON L A M B D A - Shreveport. La. Seated. L-R: Bros Alphonse Jackson, Jr., J a m e s S. Holt, III. Leonard C. Barnes. Louis Pendleton, Harry Norrls, E d w i n Holt and Leonard Wilmer. (Standing) L-R: Bros Jerome T. Powell. Edward L. Green. Jr., James C. Leary, Walter C. Walker, McKinley Nash. Jack Strong. Murphy Nash and Roosevelt Shields.
ALPHA SIGMA LAMBDA RECOGNIZES STUDENTS by Bro. Earnest L. Wallace Alpha Sigma Lambda Chapter, Dallas, Tex., realizing the need for more guidance, greater challenges, and financial aid for high school students r e cently launched a special emphasis p r o gram aimed at the top students in the Dallas Area High Schools. The p r o gram was launched by an awards luncheon where 57 of the top students in the Sophomore, Junior, and Senior classes of the High Schools were honored with special recognition and $1,000 in scholarships and aid were given. The announced program included for the Senior Group, a planned followup for the purpose of giving additional scholarships if they excel in college. It is planned also to keep them aware of educational opportunities in scholarships, educational institutions, and employment. The Sophomore and Junior group will be known as the "Alpha Merit Group". There will be a planned guidance program wherein the group will be given tests for determining best aptitudes and opportunities. There will be planned seminars and conferences related to professions, employment needs, and opportunities. Field Trips will be made to area businesses as an encouragement for determining future direction and interest. This group will also be made aware of scholarships on a national level and will be eligible for future Alpha Scholarships. The general program is being directed by the Scholarship Committee of the Chapter headed by Bro. Theodore Wallace, Ass't Principal of the J. N. Ervin School - Dallas. The special luncheon was under the direction of the Special Projects Committee, Bro. Earnest Wallace, Principal, T. C. Hassell School - Dallas, Chairman. Bro. O. J. Fountaine, Teacher at the Lincoln High School - Dallas, is President of the Chapter.
YOUR CHANGE OF ADDRESS IS IMPORTANT TO US Returned copies of The Sphinx are very costly and cause a lot of extra work and time. Please send your correct change of address to the editor or General Secretary. Whenever your address we need to know about it.
Honorable J. Erik Johnson, Mayor of the city of Dallas, presents a $500.00 Alpha Scholarship award to Robert L e e D r o n e of Booker T. Washington Technical High School.
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Bro. 6 . J. Fountains. President of Alpha Sigma Lambda, presents to Dr. C. F. Tolas, a MOO scholarship grant for John M. S a n ford, a freshman at t h e University of Wisconsin and a former honor student of Lincoln High School in Dallas.
changes,
THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION. DEADLINE
FOR FEB.. 1965 ISSUE JANUARY 11
THE SPHINX
BROTHERS IN THE ARMED FORCES At the Annual Bioenvironmental Engineering Symposium held at Brooks Air Force Base, San Antonio, Tex., September 29 to October 2, three Alpha men from different parts of the country found they were the only gentlemen of color in attendance at the gathering of some 200 scientists and engineers from all over the world. From Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio, came Bro. Elmon M. Elmore, a nuclear health physicist at that installation. He is a member of Theta Lambda and a graduate of Central State College. From McClellan Air Force Base, Sacramento, Calif., came Bro. Charles Thorpe, a chemist at the Regional Environmental Health Laboratory, Sacramento, and a graduate of North Carolina College. From Fairchild Air Force Base, Spokane, Wash., came Captain Charles C. Kidd, a Bioenvironmental Engineer in the United States Air Force. He is a
graduate of Case Institute of Technology and the University of Michigan. The three brothers enjoyed themselves very much while in San Antonio. Thanks to the hospitality of Bros. Ernest Lawson, Rowland J. Martin, Everett Jennings and R. Stiles, Jr. of Delta Phi Lambda. LT. PHILLIP R. COOPER, Fort Bliss, Tex., recently completed the Air Defense Artillery Officer Orientation course at Fort Bliss, Texas, and is now serving as a Battery Executive Officer. He is a graduate of Howard University, Washington, D. C. ARMY PFC HAROLD V. JACKSON, Birmingham, Ala., recently completed a German language course conducted by the Seventh U. S. Army in Germany. He is a pharmacy specialist in the 56th Medical Battalion's 595th Medical Company near Karlsruhe, Germany. Bro. Jackson is a graduate of Tennessee A & I University, Nashville, Tenn.
1965 N E G R O HISTORY W E E K CELEBRATION FEBRUARY 7 - 14 OUR 1965 L A N D M A R K S : 1. A century of Negro Freedom, 1865 - 1965 2. A Half-Century of Scientific Negro History, 1915 - 1965 Material for Negro History Week is ready for distribution now Order from: The Associated Publishers, Inc. 1538 Ninth Street, N. W. Washington, D. C.
ALPHA SICMA LAMBDA - Senior-Junior-Sophomore Honor Students of the Dallas area attend a special luncheon in their honor
700 times a day ,&*,,*
Bro. J. T. Stewart of Grambling College, La., Southweit Vice President, presents a $100 check to Bro. William Savannah, President of the Bishop Alpha Chapter, as a revolving loan fund for the benefit of the undergraduate chapter and its members. Dr. M. K. Curry, President of Bishop, (right) and Dr. Carl Kossack, speaker for the Awards Luncheon (second from left) look on.
DECEMBER 1964
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PAGE 31
GD m e g a
BRO. HENRY PAGE WEEDEN To grow to manhood in the nineteenth century and to mature in the twentieth and to live by the highest principles in these growing periods r e quires perception, youthfulness of spirit, integrity, and determination. The late Dr. Henry Page Weeden possessed these characteristics in full measure. He was born in Hampton, Virginia, the only son and oldest of the five children of the late Mary E. and the Reverend Henry Page Weeden. He enjoyed fond memories and lasting friendships from a happy boyhood in H a m p ton and Charlottesville, Virginia. He was justifiably proud of his scholastic achievements. In order to complete his undergraduate work at H a m p ton Institute and earn his professional degree at Howard University he had to work to sustain himself and pay his fees. No honorable job was too lowly. He began by shining shoes and he worked in hotels. He became familiar with the watering places of the eastern sea-board and the Bahama Islands. He thus realized his ambition to become a dentist and he remained a first-class one up to the day he died. Bro. Weeden practiced dentistry in Lynchburg, Virginia for over fifty years. He was loved and respected by his patients who waited for him at his office until his final illness. Tributes from the Lynchburg Dental Society and the Old Dominion Dental Society attest to their esteem of his proficiency in his profession. He was a member of the Old Dominion Dental Society and a charter member of Chi Delta Mu. Bro. Weeden was a leader in cultural and civic affairs. He took an interest in all activities promoting music and fine arts. He was at one time Chairman of the Board of Hunton Branch Y. M. C. A. He was a member of the Bi-racial Committee which was established to work for harmonious p r o gression toward first-class citizenship for all in the community. He was an active member of the Revelers Club and the Hampton Club. For more than forty years he was an active and keenly interested participant in all of the projects of his fraternity - Alpha Phi Alpha.
PAGE 32
(Ehapter
BRO. CHARLES T. HOLLO WAY, M. D.
BRO. EDWARD B. BURROUGHS, M. D.
by Bro. Walter L. Salters
by Bro. Walter L. Salters
Bro. Dr. Charles T. Holloway was a d ministered Omega Chapter Ceremonies on November 10, 1964, at his residence in Charleston, South Carolina. Bro. Holloway was a practicing physician in Charleston for the past 29 years. He was a native of Marion, S. C , where he was born J a n u a r y 23, 1909, the son of Charles Taylor and Lillie Goddard Holloway. He completed Avery Institute in Charleston and did his undergraduate work at Lincoln University, Penna. in 1930. He completed his medical studies at Meh a r r y Medical College, Nashville, Tenn., in 1935. He was valedictorian of his graduating class in high school, college and medical school. His internship was done at the Kansas City General Hospital in Kansas City, Mo. He had a year's residency at Provident Hospital in Chicago, 111., before returning to Charleston and opening his practice at 61 Morris Street. Brother Holloway was a member of the Charleston County Medical Association; the Palmetto Medical, Dental and Pharmaceutical Association, the Charleston County Medical Society, the S. C. Medical and American Medical Associations. He was a member of the Masons, Shriners, and Elks, as well as other educational, civic, and social organizations including the Athenians and Owls Whist Clubs. He was a member and trustee of Cenetary Methodist Church. Funeral services were held Wednesday, November 11, 1964, at 3:30 P. M. Bro. Holloway lived and demonstrated beyond all doubt his belief in and affirmation to the Fatherhood of God and Brotherhood of Man. By his dedication to Alpha Phi Alpha and its ideals, he became an inspiration to all whose lives he touched.
Bro. Dr. E. B. Burroughs of Beta Kappa Lambda Chapter, Charleston, S. C , passed into Omega Chapter at his residence, 62 Hanover Street, on October 18, 1964. He was a practicing physician in the city of Charleston for the past 45 years. Ritual ceremonies were administered at Old Bethel Methodist Church on October 20, 1964, at 9:00 P. M. Bro. Burroughs was born in Cheraw, S. C , the son of the late Reverend and Mrs. Edward B. Burroughs. He was graduated from Avery Normal Institute here in Charleston, Claflin University, Orangeburg, S. C , and Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Mass. His training also included thestudy of pediatrics at Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tenn. and at Children's Hospital, Chicago, 111. Shortly after his graduation from medical school he began the practice of medicine and pediatrics here in Charleston. Bro. Burroughs established the first Negro Babv Clinic at the Old McClellan Hospital in Charleston. He was a member of the Charleston Medical Association, The Palmetto State Medical Association and several Educational, Civic and Social Organizations. For twenty years he was a medical examiner for the Boys and Girls Scouts of America, and for eighteen years he served as school physician of Charleston School District Number 20. Bro. Burroughs helped to organize the first football team of Avery Institute. He was also a past trustee of Claflin College and a faithful member, trustee, and choir director of Old Bethel Methodist Church here in Charleston. His survivors include his wife, the former Miss Sadie Lovejoy of Mobile, Ala., two daughters, Miss Jeanette L. Burroughs of Washington, D. C , and Mrs. Emma Joan Reavis of Dorchester, Mass.; two grandchildren, three sisters and several nieces and nephews. Bro. Burroughs will be truly missed by his community, many patients, friends and especially the Brothers of Beta Kappa Lambda.
Bro. Weeden never lost his youthfulness of spirits. He loved his family and his friends. It was mutual. Affectionately, they called him "H. P." and "Dick". He had three daughters by first marriage: Mrs. Lula Jacobs and Mrs. Mary Tracy of Denver, Colorado who survive him and the late Mrs. Iola Johnson of Los Angeles, California, who died two years ago. He dotes on his seven grandchildren. He has a younger daughter, Mrs. Paula Wilder, of Baltimore, Maryland. He is
also survived by three of his sisters. This loss is shared by his beloved wife, Polly, with whom he shared so many of his social, civic, and professional interests. (Continued on inside back cover)
THE SPHINX
A L P H A P H I A L P H A F R A T E R N I T Y , INC. D i r e c t o r y For T h e Year 1964 JEWEL HENRY A. CALLIS. 2306 E Street. N. E., Washington. D. C. OFFICERS General President - Bro. T. Winston Cole . General President-Elect - Bro. Lionel H. Newsom General Secretary - Bro. Laurence T. Young . _ Editor - "The Sphinx" - Bro. C. Anderson Davis General Treasurer - Bro. Leven C. Weiss _ General Counsel - Bro. James H. McGee Dir of Educ. Activities - Bro. Oscar W. Ritchie
Wiley College, Marshall. Texas Barber-Scotia College. Coricord, N. C. 4432 South Parkway. Chicago, 111. _ . Box 1420, Bluefield, W. Va. 2920 Kendall. Detroit, Michigan __ 1526 W. 3rd St.. Dayton. Ohio 4778 Lakewood Road. Ravenna. Ohio
VICE PRESIDENTS Eastern - Bro. Frank W. Morris. Jr. _ _ 11 Wayne St.. Dorchester. Mass. Midwestern - Bro. Billy Jones ... _ 342A Broadway, East St., St. Louis. 111. Southern - Bro. W. Dewey Branch ___ 2801 - 14th Ave., North, Bessemer. Ala. Southwestern - Bro. Jacob T. Stewart _ _._ P. O. Box 365. Grambling, La. Western - Bro. Oscar V. Little 5835 Ernest Ave., Los Angeles, Calif.
(Dnirq;i CChnptrr (Continued from page 32) And this vital, active man did not neglect the matters of the spirit. He was deeply religious and was a longtime faithful supporter of the Eighth Street Baptist Church of Lynchburg, Virginia. Bro. Weeden passed into Omega, F r i day, December 4. Funeral Services were held Monday, December 7th at the Eighth Street Baptist Church, Lynchburg, Va.
ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENTS Eastern - Bro. E. Vincent Merry . Midwestern - Bro. Robert L. Harris, Jr. _ _ 1321 South Avers Ave.. Chicago 23, 111. Southern - Bro. Chas. M. Johnson Rm 203, Smith Hall, J. C. Smith Univ:. Charlotte, N. C. Southwestern - Bro. Rufus Caine. Jr. _ ... Arkansas A N & M College. Pine Bluff, Ark. Western - Bro. Paul N. Johnson STANDING COMMITTEES (Chairmen)
Budget and Finance - Bro. Kermit J. Hall 100 Fairview Ave.. Yeadon. Penna. Election - Bro. LeRoy Patrick 233 Mayflower St., Pittsburgh. Penna. Standards and Extension - Bro. Edward T. Addison 2217 - 10th Ave.. Los Angeles, Calif. Housing - Bro. William M. Alexander 4772 Washington St.. St. Louis, Mo. Historical Commission - Bro. Charles H. Wesley Central State College. Wilberforee. Ohio CONVENTION COMMITTEES (Chairmen) Rules and Credentials - Bro. Ernest N. Morial 1821 Orleans Ave.. New Orleans, La Recommendations - Bro. Lawrence S. Lack-ay 2225 W. Boston. Detroit, Mich Achievements and Awards - Bro. Taliaffero W. Harris 326 Greenwood, Tulsa, Okla. Time and Place - Bro. Brent T. Pendleton 1301 Shepherd Lane, Cincinnati, Ohio Grievance and Discipline - Bro. A. Maceo Hill 1769 Clifton Ave., Columbus, Ohio Resolutions - Bro. Charles W. Greene 1389 Mozlev Place. SW, Atlanta. Ga Constitutional Amendments - Robert T. Custis ._ 39-65 Fiftv Second St . Woodside N Y Internal Structure - Bro. John D. Buckner 4246 W. N. Market St.. St. Louis, Mo' REGIONAL DIRECTORS Eastern Region Massachusetts - Bro. James Howard __ 105 Greenwood St., Boston Mass Rhode Island - Bro. Ralph Allen , _ 179 Doyle Ave., Providence. R I Connecticut - Bro. W. Decker Clark _ 66 Dry Hill Road. Norwalk, Conn' New York - Bro. Marvin A. Riley 2190 Madison Ave., New York. N Y Pennsylvania - Bro. Allan Durrant 40 W. Upsal St.. Philadelphia Pa uelaware - Bro. Frederick Franklin _ Delaware State College, Dover Del Marvland-Washineton - Bro. Frank J. Ellis _ . 3727 Dolfield. Baltimore Md' Virginia - Bro. Alfred C. Fentress __ _ 715 E. Princess Ann Rd„ Norfolk. Va. Midwestern Region Indiana - Bro. Montague Oliver I l l E. 19th. Gary, Indiana Northeast Ohio - Bro. Charles Nunn 10926 Pasadena Ave.. Cleveland Ohio Central Ohio - Bro. Oliver Sumlin 2724 Hoover Ave.. Dayton Ohio Northwest Ohio - Bro. Robert Stubblefield _ 1340 W. Woodruff, Toledo Ohio « ? * ? £ " Hlmois - Bro. Harold Thomas 1731 Gatv Ave.. East St. Louis, Illinois west Missouri and Kansas - Bro. Edwin Byrd 2533 W. Paseo Dr., Kansas City Mo Wisconsin - Bro Hoyt Harper _ _ 5344 N. 64th, Milwaukee, Wisconsin Southeast Ohio - Bro. Paul Turner 2335 Gardendale Dr., Columbus 19, Ohio Westernr Michigan Bro. William Boards. Jr. 680 W. Van Buren St.. Battle Creek Mich v2I, ™ " I U l n o i s " B r ° - J- Herbert King _ 4728 Drexel Blvd., Chicago, Illinois East Missouri Bro. Clifton Bailey _ 3338A Aubert Ave.. St. Louis 15 Mo sTffv," B |: 0 - Ernest B rRussell _ 2927 Amherst St.. Des Moines, Iowa o Holl K^L* £ ° o ' ° \ „ ° w a y Sells _, 699 N. Crescent Ave.. Cincinnati. Ohio Kentucky - Bro. Herbert Olivera Kentucky State College. Frankfort, Kentucky Regional Secretary - Bro. James T. Adams 4247 Boston Ave., Detroit. Mich. Southwestern Region Oklahoma - B r o . Vernon L. Fosbee 569 N. 9th Street, Muskogee Okla Louisiana - Bro. Anthony M. Rachal, Jr. _ 6727 Congress Drive, New Orleans La' Arkansas Bro. James A. Vault 2012 Commerce St., Little Rock. Ark Alabama - Bro. Kirkwood Balton Georgia - Bro. Henry Collier Florida - Bro. James H. Green Mississippi - Bro. T. J. Ranee North Carolina - Bro. G. H. Vaughn South Carolina - Bro. Luke Chatman lennessee - Bro. George W. James B™' w m l L ^ ' V Bro' S r S 1 C o r b i a r o . cantonn Dias
n
Southern Region
—
1303 Main St., Birmingham, Ala. 1527 Mills B. Lane Ave., Sacannah, Ga. 1539 W. 23rd St., Jacksonville, Fla. 407 Washington St., Brookhaven, Miss. 1708 Shady Ave., Winston-Salem, N. C. — P. O. Box 1311. Greeneville, S. C. 1527 E. 3rd St., Chattanooga, Tenn.
Western Region 330-22nd Avenue, East, Seattle,' Washington 2401 W. Cherry Lynn Road, Phoenix. Arizona 949 Broderick St., San Francisco, California
BRO. FRANK V. PLUMMER Alpha Phi Alpha throughout the n a tion mourns the death of Bro. F r a n k V. Plummer, who passed into Omega, Wednesday evening, December 2, at U. S. Veterans Hospital, Chicago, 111. F u neral Services were held Tuesday, December 8, Monumental Baptist Church at 11:00 a. m. Bro. P l u m m e r - a "near jewel" - was one of the "first" initiates in Alpha Phi Alpha - at Alpha Chapter, Cornell University, Ithaca, N. Y., October 26, 1907. REQUIESCAT IN PACE Rest eternal, Gra,nt unto him. O Lord May his soul, and the souls of all the Faithful departed rest in peace And let the light perpetual shine upon him. Amen.
P L E A S E S E N D TO T H E EDITOR For T h e F e b r u a r y Issue Of The S p h i n x : A list of those w h o m a d e the Dean's List last s e m e s t e r ; P i c t u r e s and information about w i v e s and s w e e t h e a r t s of brothers; Pictures of undergraduate chapter s w e e t h e a r t s for 1964-65; and P i c t u r e s of chapter editors. DEADLINE J a n u a r y 11
associate
Second Class Postage P A I D At Bluefield. W. Va.
THE SPHINX P. O. Box 1420 Bluefield, W. Va. â&#x20AC;˘ Return Requested
A Wonderful Christmas Gift! PURCHASE Your Sphinx Golden Jubilee Record Album TODAY! GOLDEN JUBILEE
NEW DIRECTIONS CHORAL ENSEMBLE
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From:
The National Headquarters Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. 4432 South Parkway Chicago, Illinois
PRICE $4.00
S CARROLL B I X HAN AN
Send check or money order with your order. CHAPTERS PURCHASING FIVE (5) OR MORE RECORDS IN ONE ORDER MAY RECEIVE THE RECORDS FOR $3.50 EACH SONGS INCLUDED Side 1 Hand in Hand - Emancipation Hymn, Oh Sweetheart Dear, Ode To The Sphinx, Alphabet Song, Rose of A-Phi-A. Side 2 Sweeter As The Years Go By, Alpha's On The Go, Good 0 1 ' Alpha Spirit, We're Alpha Men, Hail We're Alpha Men, Sons of A-Phi-A, When The Alphas Go Marching Along, The Alpha Hymn. Also on the record is a dedication and narrative telling of the history of the Alpha and the Golden Jubilee of The Sphinx. This record album has been prepared for your convenience, the promotion of our fraternity, your entertainment and historical purposes. Chapters, regional and national officers are asked to assume the responsibility of helping sell these records. It is hoped that our brothers will realize that $4.00 is a very low price for this record album and that a lot of work and planning has gone into it. You will help Dear ole Alpha by purchasing the album as well as receive an outstanding item well worth your mohey. Similar records are much higher priced. PLEASE DON'T FAIL TO PURCHASE YOUR GOLDEN JUBILEE RECORD ALBUM IMMEDIATELY This record will make a wonderful Christmas or birthday gijt