The SPHINX | Fall 1985 | Volume 71 | Number 1 198507101 by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity

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editor's review Greetings . . . Let me begin by tackling that most dreaded of editorial chores, CORRECTIONS! In our last issue, we mis-identified the location of the 1984 Alumni Chapter of the Year in our index. While we placed Zeta Psi Lambda Chapter in Alexandria, Lousiana, as a native of the Southwestern Region and initiate of a Brother Chapter in that state, I should have caught the error and correctly tagged the chapter location as Lake Charles, Louisiana. This correct information did appear in the main story. However, there we mis-captioned the lead photo — identifying the Brother on the extreme left of the photograph (see below) as Brother J. Y. Bellard. The Brother shown at the Cleveland General Convention is really Brother Roy Guillorv. I sincerely regret the errors - and thank the chapter for their note of appreciation to me about our coverage in "Alpha Bits", their chapter newsletter. They didn't even mention the goofs therein. That's class! . . . Although there's no presidential election this year, much is going on that can impact upon all Black Americans. The interplay of governing is in full swing, as the Reagan forces attempt to turn back the clock on civil rights and all progressive ideals; and others in power fight to preserve the ideas upon which this pluralistic society was formed. Many of those involved - in Congress, in state legislative chambers, on the Supreme Court, in the president's Cabinet, and elsewhere - are Alpha Men. In this issue's .Focus segment, we profile three Brothers on the front line of this struggle. Special thanks go to Brothers William GraY. Ill, Chairman of the House Budget Committee; Roland Burris, Vice Chairman of the Democratic National Committee; and Ernest N. Mortal, President of the United States Conference of Mayors for their cooperation in the preparation of this feature. Thanks are also due the following for their tangible efforts to assist us in the collection of material for Focus: Ms. Wanda Gates and Mr. Alfred Cain, Administrative Assistant and Media Director-Chicago, respectively, for Comptroller Burris; Ms. Linneda Cates, staff writer for the Office of Public Information, City of New Orleans, who helped with Mayor Mortal's segment; and Ms. Shirley Bloomfield, Press Aide, House Budget Committee, who went beyond the call of duty to secure our color photo of Congressman Gray. I must also mention Brother Thomas Burke, of Rho Chapter (Philadelphia), who was invaluable as a liaison with the office of his pastor (the Congressman). Thank you, one and all. . • Should you find yourself in the Republic of France, check your itinerary to see how close you come to the town of Seclin. There you will find the Jesse Owens Hall of Sports and (we hope) a copy of this magazine in its archives. Monsieur Jean DeMailly, Mayor of Seclin, has been most thoughtful in keeping Alpha Phi Alpha abreast of developments surrounding the inauguration of this grand facility and materials he supplied formed the basis of our Alpha Athletes article. We sincerely thank him for his courtesy. I must also give a thousand thanks to Brother Robert Warren of Washington, DC for his assistance in translating the many news-clippings supplied by Mayor DeMailly into a language vaguely understood by your editor. Brother Warren is a star teacher of French in the DC public schools and his skills were invaluable . . • Legacy features three tributes to the legendary Belford V. Lawson, Jr., Past President and noted civil rights lawyer. The history of Brother Lawson's contributions clearly indicate how millions of persons (in this case Black Americans most prominently) can reap tangible benefit from the efforts of one individual. We appreciate the permission to publish these tributes given by the Lawson family, The Honorable Marjorie Lawson and Brother Belford V., Ill; Attorney Wiley A, Branton, a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and former Dean of the Howard University School of Law; and our own General President Charles C. Teamer, Sr. College Brothers are especially referred to these pages for elucidation . . . The Editor's Award of Merit: During the last several years, no single Brother has been more helpful in our efforts to publish a quality fraternal journal than our stalwart Commentary columnist, Brother Hael Perkins. We certainly appreciate the time he takes from his duties in the Office of Academic Affairs of Louisiana State University to critique, to offer encouragement, and most importantly, to write cogently and passionately for these pages. I can always count on him to be topical and erudite on issues that are of grave importance to us. We, and all who care for our well being and continued progress, must hear the voices of Black America in these times. Thanks, Brother Huel. . . Mark This Date: September 1, 1985 is absolutely, positively, the last date for the receipt of submis-sions for the Fall Issue of The Sphinx. Other future deadlines are November 1, 1985; January 1, 1986; and March 1, 1986. Please adhere to these deadlines. I will! . . . Until next issue . . .

ON THE D R A W I N G BOARD • Distinguished Collegians * Alphas Everywhere • National Headquarters Profile

VIM I Ml 71

UMIIIII I SPRIMi I9S.1

OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. Editor-in-Chief

MICHAEL .1. PRICE Contributing Editors:

James K. Illinium. Ill: ( m m T. Young. Sr.: Hucl Perkins; Charles C. Teamer. Sr.. fix llffirio.

FOf US - The campaign dust has all but settled - and the hard work of governing begins in earnest. Three Alpha Men are in the thick of that process.

LEGACY - T h e legendary Belford V. Lawson, Jr. entered Omega Chapter in February. We present three tributes to this multi-faceted and charismatic leader.

ALPHA ATHLETES - A small town in France dedicates its new sports arena in honor of Brother Jesse Owens.

256827 33 53 57 58 -

The General President Speaks The Executive Secretarys' Desk There Goes An Alpha Man NewsBriefs Alphas On The Move Chapter News Omega Chapter Directory of Officers Chapter Directory

ABOl'T THK C0VRR: The Alpha Brothers pictured have i m p o r t a n t roles to play on the national leadership scene. They are Illinois Comptroller Roland Burris (top left); N e w O r l e a n s Mayor Ernest N. Dutch Modal (top right); and Pennsylvania Congressman William Gray, III (bottom).

Commentary Huel Perkins Page 19

The Sphinx (USPS 5 1 0 - 4 4 0 ) The Sphinx is the official magazine of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc , 4 4 3 2 Or Martin Luther King Or . Chicago. IL 6 0 6 5 3 Published four times a year Spring. Summer, Fall and Winter Send all editorial mail and change of address (send both addresses) to Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, 4 4 3 2 Dr Martin Luther King Drive Chicago, IL 6 0 6 5 3 Manuscripts or art submitted to The Sphinx should be accompanied by addressed envelopes and return postage Editor assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts or art Opinions e x p r e s s e d m columns and articles do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc . and use of any person's name in fiction, semi-fiction articles or humorous features is to be regarded as a coincid e n c e and not as the responsibility of The Sphinx It is never done knowingly Copyright 1 9 7 6 by The Sphinx, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Inc Reproduction or use, without written permission, of the editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited The Sphinx has been published continuously since 1 9 1 4 Organizing Editor Bro Raymond W Cannon Organizing General President Bro Henry Lake Dickason (Second class postage paid at Chicago. IL and additional mailing stations Postmaster Send Form 3 5 7 9 and all c o r r e s p o n d e n c e 4 4 3 2 Dr Martin Luther King Dr . Chicago. IL 6 0 6 5 3

THE GENERAL PRESIDENT SPEAKS he current commitment to replace our General Office facility is the result of committee work and convention ^ ^ ^ ^ decisions dating back to 1978. On December 28, 1978, General President James R. Williams established a "National Headquarters Committee" â&#x20AC;&#x201D; chaired by Judge Sidney A. Jones, Jr., former Acting General Secretary. This committee was charged with surveying the condition of the c u r r e n t building a n d making any recommendations deriving from their findings. At the 1979 General Convention, this Committee reported the need for urgent repairs on the current facility and further recommended that "a continuing study be made of the possibilities of erecting a new national headquarters building . . .", In Chicago, at the 1980 General Convention, the National Headquarters Committee reported satisfactory work on the repairs to our current facility; and added that it had taken no action regarding a new building, due to a plan then under study to include space for the office in the proposed Alpha Tower â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a housing complex for the elderly in that city. Negotiations continued along this line, but the plan to include a General Office facility in the Alpha Tower complex was eventually abandoned.

STRIVING TOWARD THE LIGHT A Summary History of the National Headquarters

Plan

n my travels over the past five months, no subject has occupied more time and energy than our plan to build a new, ^ ^ ultra-modern General Office facility in Chicago. While the attitude among the Brotherhood is overwhelmingly positive, questions remain on a wide variety of issues. To a large extent, this is understandable. The issue of a new "Alpha House" has been foremost in our collective minds for nearly a decade and it is difficult to readily recall the twists and turns of our deliberations. I have made it a top priority to communicate with each of you on this vital issue. This column is only the beginning of a series of informational material to that end. I know that, armed with the facts, you will respond and make the National Headquarters program a rousing success.

During his first year of office, General President Ozell Sutton appointed Brother Wayne Harvey, Chairman of the Alpha Phi Alpha Building Foundation, Inc., to prepare a "Preliminary Architectural Program for Designing of The Alpha Phi Alpha National Headquarters Building. " This study outlined the space and use requirements necessary for such a facility. With the presentation of this report at the 1982 General Convention, General President Sutton (in his report) proposed the adoption of a campaign "to raise $1.5 million for the purchase or construction of a new headquarters." This proposal was adopted by the chapter delegates at the convention. In the summer of 1983, the Board

of Directors authorized the purchase of the tax lien on the "Muhammed Mansion," the personal residence of the late Black Muslim leader. This transaction was first and foremost an investment, although it admittedly gave fraternity officials the option to consider the building as a possible General Office site. Use in this manner was quickly ruled out, and no proposal was ever put forth to this end. I mention it in the context of this column only to put it in its proper perspective. At the 1983 General Convention in New Orleans, General President Sutton presented a three-part proposal for implementing this fund drive, a) that the sum of $1.5 million be raised "to construct or otherwise acquire" a new headquarters; b) that all Brothers be assessed toward this goal, at $100 per Alumni Brother and $50 per College Brother; and c) that Alpha Chapters be made responsible for collecting and transmitting said funds. This proposal was adopted by the assembled chapter delegates; and Brother A. J. Lewis, III (Eta Lambda Chapter, Atlanta, GA) came forth to pay the first $100 toward this goal. General President Sutton concluded, after weighing a number of options, that the construction of a new General Office facility on the site of our present building was a feasible procedure. Thus, he instructed Brother Harvey to prepare preliminary plans along these lines for the consideration of the Board of Directors and, subsequently, the General Convention. At the January 1984 meeting of the Board of Directors, a "Proposed Plan for a National Headquarters" was presented to that body - stipulating that the Fraternity "build" a General Office building at its "present site" (4432 Martin Luther King Drive, Chicago, IL). The proposal further provided that the new building would occupy land "including the present building lot, the adjacent south lot (already owned by the Fraternity), and the contiguous north lot (to be acquired)"; and "that the The Sphinx/Spring 1985

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r/ij's architect's rendering shows the recent design adopted for the General Office to be constructed at 4432 S. King Drive in Chicago. The building, as shown, occupies land currently owned bv the Fraternity.

design of the building (as presented in sketches) preserve the facade of the present building as an entryway . . . with all new construction behind to house the General Office." An artist's preliminary sketch of the proposed building was included with this presentation. The Board of Directors deferred action on the proposal at that time. It voted instead to have the proposal presented at each of the five 1984 Regional Conventions for discussion; and placed the matter on the agenda for its May 1984 meeting. At the May meeting the Board unanimously approved this proposal and recommended it to the upcoming General Convention - authorizing preparation of formal presentation at that time. With prior approval for securing some new facility and for funding same, the 1984 General Convention entertained the questions of the "manner of facility to be acquired and the location of same." The formal proposal to "build" in Chicago at The Sphinx/Spring 1985

"4432 King Drive" was put forth by General President Sutton - and was approved by the convention delegates. Since the close of last year's convention, we have continued to review our plans for General Office construction - to make revisions and to provide detailed specifications as needed. The primary alteration has been to revise the drawings to allow for construction on the two lots (of the three originally proposed) that Alpha Phi Alpha currently owns enabling us to proceed quickly with our plans to acquire a new facility. This final plan was reviewed with the Brotherhood at each of the 1985 Regional Conventions and forms the basis of our continued work to make this project a success. I hope that this summary history of our National Headquarters plan gives each Brother a clear picture of where we've been in this process, where we now stand, and our future direction. Certainly, it should show that a great deal of thought, time and effort has been put into the develop-

ment of our future home - on the part of the various special committees, Past General Presidents, the Boards of Directors, and delegates to the Regional Conventions and General Conventions. In each subsequent issue of The Sphinx, we shall provide the Brotherhood with additional information regarding this project - which should be foremost in all our minds for the near future. We'll discuss, in detail, the design of the future General Office; our fund raising plan; progress of the project; and problems we encounter along the way. In the interim, if you have any questions on the evolution of our design for a new "House of Alpha" you should feel free to address them to me at: P.O. Box 8310, New Orleans, LA 70182. Fraternally,

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. » * • »

CHARLES C. TEAMER, SR. General President 3

1986

ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. General Office 4 4 3 2 S. King Drive Chicago, IL 6 0 6 5 3

DIRECTORY OF CHAPTER OFFICERS

(312) 373-1819

NOTICE: Each chaDter Is required to complete this form, annually, and to submit same to the General Office, as per article IV, Sections 5.1,5.2 and 5 4 of the CONSTITUTION & BY-LAWS of ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. DATE KEY NO.:

NAME OF CHAPTER CHAPTER SEAT (CoH»g» or Urmarslty

• H applicable)

State

City

OFFICERS

THE OFFICERS LISTED BELOW SHALL SERVE A TERM BEGINNING.

Year

Day AND E N D I N G ,

_/_

Month

PRESIDENT:

86 Year

Day

NAME Last

Middle

First

ADDRESS: City

Street and Number

HOME TELEPHONE SECRETARY:

Zip Code

State

. WORK TELEPHONE (

( ) Area Code

)

Area Code

NAME Last

Middle

First

ADDRESS: HOME TELEPHONE .(

)

.WORK TELEPHONE

Area Code

VICE PRESIDENT.

TREASURER

ASSOCIATE EDITOR TO "SPHINX"

CHAPLAIN

EDUCATION DIRECTOR _

HISTORIAN.

DEAN OF PLEDGES

CORR. SEC.

FINANCIAL SEC.

SGT-AT-ARMS

(

)

Area Code

NAME

OFFICE

NAME

OFFICE

Zip Code

State

City

Street and Number

C O N T A C T P E R S O N : List below the officer to whom all official chapter communications are to be addressed NAME

TITLE

ADDRESS City

Street and Number

HOME TELEPHONE (

Zip Code

State

WORK TELEPHONE (

)

Area Code

1 9 8 5 SUMMER ADDRESS: If different from CONTACT PERSON: The address shown below Is to be used for all chapter correspondence beginning

./.

./_ Month

Day

- . -ending. -.J , and

./. Month

Year

Day

85 Year

_ TITLE

NAME. ADDRESS.

City

Street and Number

( HOME TELEPHONE: A r e a

) Code

.WORK TELEPHONE

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State

Zip Code

THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY'S DESK All Roads Lead To Atlanta! as processed through the General Office. The majority of Alpha's convention block (of hotel rooms) will not be available prior to the aftenoon of Friday, August 9. Please make reservations accordingly. You may guarantee your hotel reservation by credit card or by a check in the amount of the first might's deposit. If you choose to send a deposit, please enclose a separate check made payable to the "Atlanta Hilton."

All roads lead to Atlanta - and those of us in the General Office are already busy preparing for your arrival at what will assuredly be the largest convention in Alpha history. Because we do expect a huge convention, we need your cooperation in registering early and paying close attention to registration procedures in order to insure that your stay goes "without a hitch." Please note the following areas of interest:

Delegate Credentials

Pre-Registration For your convenience. Pre-Registration forms were distributed at each Regional Convention and have been mailed to the entire Brotherhood. Each Alpha Brother should use a separate form for registration. Family members and guests may be registered on the form with any Brother. Your complete form should be forwarded with all fees to Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., 4432 Martin Luther King Drive, Chicago, IL 60653. Rate discounts are offered to all persons registering prior to July 1, 1985. In addition, Pre-Registrants are assigned priority seating at the Alpha Formal Banquet and the Ladies Theatre-Luncheon. Convention kits, activity tickets and convention information will be prepared in advance for pre-registrants - and await you arrival to the site. You are encouraged to register early. A Late Fee ($20 for all adults; $10 per child) will be charged for persons registering after July 1, 1985.

College Brothers College Bothers are offered two registration plans - both of which provide for attendance and participation for the duration of the convention. Plan I is the "full-fare" arrangement, providing tickets for the Banquet and all scheduled luncheons. College Brothers who choose Plan I may register for $70 (add $20 after July 1st.) Plan II is the "no frills" plan, allowing College Brothers to be fully The Sphinx/Spring 1985

registered - but including only one (1) meal function - the College Brothers Luncheon. Plan II College Brothers may, however, purchase individual meal tickets for other meal functions. Plan II costs $25; and is available only during the Pre-Registration period.

Pre-Assigned Seating Because of high demand, seating is pre-assigned for the Formal Banquet and the Ladies Theatre-Luncheon on a "first come-first served" basis. Group seating must be requested and paid for at the time of registration.

Air Travel Delta Airlines is offering discounts of 35-40% off their regular (undiscounted) round-trip fares to Atlanta. Call the airline at 1-800-241-6760, and give the Alpha Phi Alpha number U0101, for help with your travel arrangements. Check with Delta also about its other promotional fares, which might (in some cases) provide even greater savings on you convention trip.

Hotel Reservations Hotel room reservation requests must be sent to the Alpha Phi Alpha General Office. Convention registration fees must accompany room requests. The hotel is not authorized to release Alpha Phi Alpha's reserved rooms, at the convention rate, except

Delegate Credentials forms were mailed during May (in the June issue of The Chapter Bulletin). Please return the completed form to the General Office as soon as possible. Delegates will be a p p o r t i o n e d on t h e b a s i s of chapter m e m b e r s h i p , p u r s u a n t to Article II, Section 4 of t h e Constitution.

Job Fair & Exhibit Program More than 50 national corporations are expected to participate in the 1985 Job Fair and Exhibit Program, offering both job interview opportunities and consumer exhibit booths. If you are unable to attend the Job Fair, you are urged to mail your resume to Job Fair, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, 4432 Martin Luther King Drive, Chicago, IL 60653. The Job Fair is also open to the general public.

Special Events In addition to the activities already announced, negotiations are underway to present other special events (including a concert featuring a major artist). Persons who pre-register prior to the announcement of these events will receive a special mailing giving them "first choice" of tickets to attend these special events. We look forward to seeing all of you when Alpha goes to Atlanta . . . AGAIN! Fraternally,

Q&AH+V

ft. /MdZtow

JAMES B. BLANTON, III Executive Secretary

Brother Robert Brown, Jr.

Michigan Corrections Director The state Corrections Commission selected Brother ROBERT BROWN, JR. of Lansing as director of the Michigan Department of Corrections. Brother Brown, 48, has been deputy director in charge of the department's Bureau of Correctional Facilities since November, 1971. The Commission is a bi-partisan body made up of five members appointed by the Governor with the consent of the Senate. The director is responsible to the Commission for the daily operation of the department, and the Commission sets department policy. As director, Brown will supervise a staff of about 5,900 employees. The department operates 13 prisons, 12 minimum-security camps and supervises 15,500 prisoners, 8,500 parolees and 31,000 probationers. The 1984-85 operating budget is $290 million. Brown was graduated from the Lansing Public School system and earned a bachelor's degree in social work from Michigan State University in 1958. After college he joined the Air Force and attained the rank of captain in the active reserves. In 1960 he joined the former Michigan Department of Social Welfare in Detroit where he managed a caseload of recipients of Aid to

D e p e n d e n t Children and other welfare benefits. He started with the department in 1961 as a prison social worker at Cassidy Lake Technical School, a minimum-security prison near Chelsea. From 1962 to 1967 he served as a parole officer in Detroit, returning to the prison side of Corrections in 1967 when he was promoted to assistant deputy warden at the Marquette Branch Prison, a maximum-security facility for men. In 1969 he moved over to the Michigan Reformatory in Ionia to be the assistant deputy warden there, and in 1971 was promoted to the post of deputy director. He also has been administrative assistant to former Corrections Director Gus Harrison. He also is a life member of the NAACP, the MSU Alumni Association, the MSU Black Alumni, Inc. and is on the board of directors of the Youth Development Corp., Inc., Lansing. He is a member of the Trinity AME Church of Lansing. He has also served as President, Secretary and Treasurer of Kappa Delta Lambda in Lansing, and presently serves as Chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee. He joined the fraternity in 1955 at Michigan State University in East Lansing. He is married to the former Joy Tunstall of Detroit.

Hicks heads Optometric Association Brother CLAYTON N. HICKS is currently serving as the President of the National Optometric Association, a post he has held since 1981. Dr. Hicks maintains a private practice in optometry in Columbus, Ohio. He also serves as a clinical instructor at the Ohio State University College of Optometry and as a vision care consultant for the Ohio Department of Public Welfare. He served as a research microbiologist for the Ohio D e p a r t m e n t of P u b l i c H e a l t h Laboratory from 1964 throu 1970. The Association was founded in 1969 by Black optometrists to update and enhance the knowledge of optometry and develop the skills of proThe Sphinx/Spring 1985

THERE GOES AS ALPHA MAN

Brother Clayton N. Hicks

Brother Kenneth V. Hilton

fessional optometrists. The group works to improve the delivery of optometric and other health services to the general public, and especially to the Black community. NO A places special emphasis on guiding Black youth into the profession. Brother Hicks was initiated in Kappa Chapter (Ohio State University) in 1963. Currently a member of Alpha Rho Lambda (Columbus), he served as the chapter's president (1981-83) and is now historian. He will also serve as Chairman of the 1986 Midwestern Regional Convention in Columbus. Dr. Hicks has also served as President of the Columbus Inner City Lions Club (1977-80); the Columbus PanHellenic Council (1975-80); and the Board of Directors, Neighborhood House, Inc. (1979-81). He is a member of Epsilon Psi Epsilon Professional Fraternity of Optometry; American Optometric Association; Ohio Optometric Association; the American Public Health Association; and the UNCF National Advisory Council.

State Boards of Education, United States of America. Mr. Hilton is a graduate of South Carolina State College, Orangeburg. A major in mathematics and physics, he is currently an operations research analyst for the United States Army at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Maryland. Brother Kenneth Hilton has provided leadership and service in a multiplicity of community organizations and projects. Foremost has been his service as a member of the Delaware Board of Education since 1977. He has served as chairman of its finance and resolutions commitees, also its statelocal relations committee, and a member of the Quality Task Force, and the Advisory Commitee for the High School-College Linkage Project of the College Board. He has attended White House meetings on educational issues, testified before the Coordinating Council on Juvenile Delinquency Prevention, U.S. Department of Education. He has served as judge for selecting Delaware's teacher of the year and as a representative on Secretary Bell's Study Group on the Quality of Textbooks and Instructional Materials. Brother Hilton was elected to his leadership position, President-Elect, at the Annual Meeting of the National Association of State Boards of Education on October 13, 1984 at Dearborn, Michigan. He is married to the former Dorotheia Smalls of North Charleston, South Carolina, and has one son. They reside in Newark, Delaware.

Hilton to lead educator's group Brother KENNETH V. HILTON, active member of Gamma Theta Lambda Chapter, Wilmington, Delaware, has been elected PresidentElect of the National Association of The Sphinx/Spring 1985

There goes a man M^ high impulse Of princely mien and grace There goes a man of humble . faith A credit to his race There goes a man of conscience vast with will to reach his goal There goes a man of lordly rank Of heroes' stock and soulâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; there goes a man of noble caste Whom hardship cannot break There goes a man in merit clad Whom duty won't forsake I here goes a man in cultured verse Who holds a sportsman's creed I here goes a man too vigilant To bow to lust or greed There goes a man whose life is spent in service not in scorn There goes a man whose majesty Shines like a May time I here goes a man who is a friend To love and duly truth I here goes a man in help uplift I he lives of wholesome youth There goes a man with industry and faith at his command. There goes the best man in mid out Tor he is an Alpha Man. 7

A HELPING HAND: The B r o t h e r s of Delta Kappa (Alcorn State U, Lorm a n , MS) donated food items to the county welfare d e p a r t m e n t for distribution to poor families . . . Brother William T. Coleman, former U. S. Secretary of Transportation, w a s hired by SEPTA to survey needed i m p r o v e m e n t s to t h a t Pennsylvania rail system . . . Morris Brown College (Atlanta, GA) recently received a $10,000 check in h o n o r of t h e late Brother George Alexander Sewell, a n a l u m n u s w h o served as College H i s t o r i a n at the time of h i s death. The Sewell Memorial E n d o w m e n t Scholarship w a s established by h i s widow, Mrs. Lillie Sewell, w h o made the presentation to the college. Brother Sewell also t a u g h t at Lemoyne College, Memphis; G a m m o n Theological Seminary, Atlanta, w h e r e h e w a s Dean; a n d Alcorn State University, from w h i c h h e retired as Professor of Sociology and Social Science . . . THOUGHT YOU KNEW: That of the four Blacks c h a i r i n g committees of the U. S. House of Representatives, two are A l p h a Men: B r o t h e r William Gray, III, Budget; a n d Julian Dixon, Ethics (Standards of Official Conduct) . . . A PEOPLE'S PRIDE: "Expanding Horizons Together" w a s the t h e m e of the free, public Black History p r o g r a m sponsored by Theta Psi Lambda Chapter (Somerset, N J ) . Held in c o n j u n c t i o n w i t h the Middlesex County Cultural and Heritage Commission, the p r o g r a m included jazz, dance, choral selections, a r t a n d d r a m a . . . The B r o t h e r s of Delta Xi Chapter (Cent r a l State U, Ohio) p r e s e n t e d "Dr. W. E. B. DuBois: The Struggle for Freedom, Liberty and J u s t i c e " during t h a t school's Black History M o n t h observance . . . Kappa Lambda Chapter (Greensboro, NC) sponsored a n Ecumenical Service o n February 3rd. Rev. Lloyd Green w a s t h e speaker a n d music w a s provided by the Alpha Mixed Choir, directed by Mrs. Barbara Amos. . . . Brother John H. Coleman, President of Iota Theta Lambda Chapter (En8

dicott, NY) p u t forth t h e Alpha perspective in a Black History m o n t h feature i n the B i n g h a m t o n (NY) Saturday Press . . . The Brothers of Theta Sigma Chapter (U of Florida) joined w i t h m e m b e r s of Kappa Alpha Psi a n d t h e Black Student Union to s p o n s o r a n exhibit of the a r t of everyday African life, s h o w n at t h e school's Reitz Union Colonnade . . . DR. KING'S DREAM: Brother Noah Robinson, a p r o m i n e n t Chicago b u s i n e s s m a n a n d t h e b r o t h e r of Rev. J e s s e J a c k s o n , w a s back in h i s h o m e t o w n of Greenville, South C a r o l i n a to s p e a r h e a d Gamma Gamma Lambda Chapter's M a r t i n Luther King observance. The chapter's events included a parade, rally, a n a w a r d s ceremony for gifted h i g h school students a n d the b a n q u e t k e y n o t e d by B r o t h e r Robinson. Brother Fred Bostic w a s c h a i r m a n of the Alpha observances. Greenville Mayor Bill W o r k m a n presented t h e c h a p t e r w i t h a p r o c l a m a t i o n recognizing J a n u a r y 15th as M a r t i n Luther King Day in the city . . . The Iota

Beta Lambda Chapter (Cocoa, FL) held its 7 t h A n n u a l M a r t i n Luther King Banquet on J a n u a r y 12th at the Royal Oak Country Club i n Titusville . . . HERE AND THERE: The Alpha Wives of Washington, DC held t h e i r 3rd I n a u g u r a l Prayer Breakfast on J a n u a r y 21st at the S h o r e h a m Hotel. Proceeds from t h e breakfast benefited t h e Children's Defense Fund and t h e D.C. Council on Clothing for Kids. The guest speaker w a s M a r i a n Wright Edelman, president of the Children's Defense Fund. Mrs. Sadye J a m e s is President of the Alpha Wives and Mrs. Edna McClellan w a s c h a i r m a n of the Prayer Breakfast . . . Brother Elbert Wisner, President of the New J e r s e y Chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha a n d T r e a s u r e r of t h e E a s t e r n Region, recently retired as a civilian staffer in the U. S. A r m y . . . Brother Thomas B. Shropshire, Senior Vice President of Miller Brewing Company, w a s t h e keynoter at the 3 8 t h Annual Dinner of the Urban League of N o r t h w e s t Indiana. He received a key to the city from Gary continued

FAMILY FINANCE

When Black Enterprise sought the ideal family to highlight in t h e upcoming M a r c h 1985 issue's story of Family Financial Planning, Alpha came forth â&#x20AC;&#x201D; thrice. First, Brother Victor L. Marsh a n d family (wife Cheryl a n d son Victor I I ) of Detroit w a s selected to p o r t r a y the familial roles. Brother Marsh, a 1978 initiate of Epsilon Chapter a n d a graduate of N o r t h e a s t e r n

University Law School in Boston, serves as Special Assistant to the Board C h a i r m a n of the Greater OIC of Metropolitan Detroit. Previously, Brother M a r s h w a s a n area representative for the national office of OIC. S e c o n d l y , B r o t h e r Dennis G. Williams, a n Alpha Upsilon initiate w a s selected as the financial plann e r to guide the M a r s h e s to economic success. Brother Williams is president of Trend Financial Plann e r s , Inc. of Detroit. Finally, the article was penned by Brother Kenneth M. Jones, also a n Epsilon initiate a n d a free-lance w r i t e r residing in New York City. He is a frequent contributor to both Black Enterprise and Essence magazines. Most recently, he penned the Focus article on Brother Eugene Jackson in t h e Seventieth A n n i v e r s a r y Issue of the Sphinx (Spring 1984). â&#x20AC;˘ The Sphinx/Spring 1985

B r o t h e r s Austin Oscar Williams, Craig McXinley Joseph, a n d Troy Anthony Stovall a r e t h e 1 9 8 4 - 8 5 recipients of t h e Alpha Phi Alpha Education Foundation Undergraduate Scholarships. B r o t h e r Williams, a s e n i o r chemistry major p l a n s to attend medical school following graduation 1984-85 Undergraduate Scholarship winners from Howard University. He is en(clockwise from top): rolled i n t h e Howard University Craig Joseph; H o n o r s Program, m a i n t a i n i n g a Troy Stovall; 3.82 cumulative G.PA. He holds Austin Williams. m e m b e r s h i p i n B e t a K a p p a Chi Scientific Honor Society, American Chemical Society, Campus Senate and the NAACP. He is also a National Deans' List student, a Phi Beta Kappa Scholar, and the recipient of the Trustees' Scholarship. He is a native of St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. J u n i o r Class Secretary. He is also a Brother Joseph, a Gary, I n d i a n a native attending N o r t h Carolina m e m b e r of the Student Government A & T State University i n GreensAssociation, Pan-Hellenic Council, boro, is a j u n i o r majoring i n BusiDormitory Council a n d Economics n e s s Economics. An h o n o r student Club. at A 6? T, h e m a i n t a i n s a G.PA. of Brother Stovall is a S o u t h e r n 3.89 and, i n addition, serves a s Methodist University j u n i o r enBrothers of Beta Eta Lambda (Ok| continued from previous page l a h o m a City, OK) celebrated t h e Mayor Richard Hatcher, a loving occasion at Allen Chapel AME cup from Brother Clarence Benford Church. Brother Oliver Stripling w a s and Gamma Rho Lambda Chapter, and a p o r t r a i t of himself from t h e named "Man of t h e Year" o n t h a t League . . . Brother Ronald P. Walker occasion . . . The Eta Lambda is president of the National Young Chapter (Atlanta, GA) conducted Adult Conference a n d is a m e m b e r its Founders' Day p r i o r to t h e of the General Board of Social Conm o r n i n g service at Warren Memocern and Board of Christian Educarial United Methodist Church. Past tion of the CME Church . . . Brother General President Ozell Sutton William A. Anderson is P r o g r a m Dispoke on Alpha's civic contrirector of the Earthquake Mitigation butions; Chapter President Larry P r o g r a m at t h e National Science Earvin offered greetings; a n d F<- i .iation . . . Brother I. S. Leevy F a t h e r H. J. C. Bowden, Sr. offered Jc, -.son is C h a i r m a n of t h e Board the p a s t o r a l prayer . . . Beta No of Directors of South Carolina State Lambda Chapter (Charlotte, NC) College (Orangeburg) . . . Brother held Founders' Day at McDonald's Alvin Allen is Treasurer of t h e Cafeteria on December 7 t h . Rev. Mobile (Alabama) Metropolitan Clifford J o n e s w a s t h e guest Chapter of t h e National Pan-Helspeaker for t h e evening . . . The lenic Council . . . The wives of memBrother of Alpha Phi Lambda (Norbers of Iota Zeta Lambda Chapter folk, VA) held a n evening of danc(Compton, CA) recently sponsored ing a n d dining at t h e Lake Wright t h e i r 2 n d A n n u a l Fashion Show Quality I n n . Honored at the a w a r d s and Breakfast at t h e Sheraton La p r o g r a m were: Dr. King E. Davis, Reina Hotel . . . former Norfolk State professor and FOUNDER'S DAY RECAP: T h e

FOUNDATION SCHOLARS

The Sphinx/Spring 1985

rolled i n the School of Engineering. As a n electrical engineering major, he h a s participated in several highly technical r e s e a r c h projects as well as computer p r o g r a m m i n g projects w i t h Rockwell I n t e r n a tional a n d Hewlett Packard. H i s academic achievements (3.66 cumulative G.PA.) include President, Alpha Lambda Delta Freshm a n Honorary; President, SMU Chapter, National Society of Black Engineers; and, recipient of t h e Technical Club of Dallas Award for outstanding academic performance. He also holds m e m b e r s h i p in Phi Eta Sigma F r e s h m a n Men's Honorary, Order of Omega, a n d is o n t h e SMU Dean's List. Most recently h e w a s selected as one of four SMU students to be highlighted by t h e University i n its fund drive for t h e decade ahead. The Undergraduate Scholarship seeks to h o n o r b r o t h e r s from each region for outstanding academic achievement, c o m m u n i t y and frate r n a l service. •

•••••••••^••••••••••••••iB former head of t h e Norfolk Coalition for Quality Education, w h o received t h e H u m a n i t a r i a n Award; Brother Willie Harris, Jr., w h o received the "Alpha Man cf the Year" Award; a n d Dr. J a m e s Satterfield, who received t h e Lyman B. Brooks Award from t h e Epsilon Pi Chapter at NSU . . . Dr. Clifford E. Hardwick III, Director of t h e SavannahChatham County (GA) school system, was the guest speaker at the Founders' Day observance of Delta Iota Lambda Chapter (Columbus, GA), held December 9 t h a t Holsey M o n u m e n t a l CME C h u r c h . Col. James C. Jackson is Chapter President a n d B r o t h e r s Henry Chavers, Solon Bryant, William Battle, Sr., a n d Kenneth Huff served o n t h e prog r a m ' s committee . . . Brother Julian M. Baker w a s n a m e d "Alpha M a n of the Year" by Delta Beta Lambda Chapter ( H a m p t o n , VA) at t h a t Chapter's joint observance with Zeta Lambda (Newport News, VA) . . . •

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FOCUS

A MUM'S LEADERS

Three Alpha Men are among the institutional leaders charged with plotting a new course for America.

BY MICHAEL J, PRICE

lack Americans still, in 1985, experience the peculiar sense of "two-ness" spoken of so often in the Black literary ^ ^ ^ ^ experience. Black American, Afro-American and African-American are more than hyphenated words. In a very real sense, they bespeak hyphenated lives. Nowhere is the presence of this dichotomy felt more strongly than in the realm of leadership. There is a clear tension between a people's demand for responsible leaders "from" the community "to" the larger society; and the equal demand that qualified persons "from" the community be leaders "of" the societal whole (chosen on the basis of merit, without regard to race, creed or color). This is perhaps not an irresolvable problem — but it holds the potential for great unrest, most especially if its very existence is denied. Recognizing this duality does not imply that either role is unimportant. On the contrary, they are both vital in this pluralistic society. Nor should one assume that these two leadership classes are mutually exclusive. Any leader of a distinct sub-group

The Sphinx/Spring 1985

[whether based on race, religion or creed) is, by virtue of that fact, a part of the national leadership pool. Conversely, an official national leader has some fiduciary responsibility to each of these groups, not excluding any to which he or she might belong. But there is a line of demarcation separating these types of leaders, however fuzzy it might be on close inspection. It should be clear that Black Americans need both types of leaders if continued progress is to be attained. While protests can gain the airwaves and bring public attention to the lack of minority participation in a public works project, a mayor or city council leader can change the mix — out of view, but effectively. While marches can lament the double-standard of American justice, judges — on the local, state and federal levels — can add an even hand to the process. And, yet, when the constraints of the "rules" resist right and proper change, a clarion voice from the community can arouse the passion of the nation — accomplishing what the officials can not bring to fruition. During 1984, with national elec-

tions for President, in all congressional districts and one-third of the senate seats, a community leader — Rev. Jesse Jackson — was the dominant voice of Black America. In 1985, with only a few (special) national elections coming up, the spotlight turns to the institutional leaders — on the Supreme Court, in the executive branch, in the national political parties and the halls of Congress. Three prominent members of the Leadership Class of 1985 are members of Alpha Phi Alpha: Congressman William H. Gray, III, (D-PA), Chairman of the Budget Committee of the United States House of Representatives; Mayor Ernest N. Dutch Morial, Mayor of New Orleans, Louisiana and President of the United States Conference of Mayors; and Roland W. Burris, Comptroller of the State of Illinois and Vice Chairman of the Democratic National Committee. These three Brothers will have a strong voice in shaping the future of America — and of Black Americans — as the Reagan-era comes to a close . . . and the country seeks another (and - possibly different) direction. Stories on pp. 13-18: 11

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FOCUS

GRAY ongressman William Gray, III, Chairman of the Budget C o m m i t t e e of the United States House of Represen^ ^ ^ â&#x201E;˘ tatives, has been tagged with a number of adjectives during his relatively short term under the full glare of the national spotlight. Politically, while he's seldom called "conservative" (except by some remnants of the black power movement in his sprawling district in North and West Philadephia), the nation's penpushers almost evenly divide themselves between "liberal" and "moderate". Perhaps that's because Rep. Gray describes himself as "liberal or progressive", while maintaining a good rapport with conservatives. As to his skills, Representative Gray is characterized as "a superb politician", "a consensus man", "a coalition builder", and one "unafraid to take risks". In his words, he's "effective." All of these factors worked to the Congressman's advantage as he began his campaign, in the summer of 1984, to snare the budget assignment. While some waited to see if the party would change its rules and allow then-Chairman James Jones of Oklahoma to serve a third two-year term, Gray was garnering votes. Among them was a Jones' commitment for support, should the incumbent not receive a green light himself. When the Democratic Caucus voted not to s u s p e n d its rules (barring Jones from continuing in the job), Gray was far and away the front-runner. Even insinuations that having a Black out front battling the Reagan forces would send the "wrong message" to Mainsteam America were unable to derail the Gray drive. He was unanimously elected on January 4th. Gray had served on the Budget Committee for his first two years in Congress, quit to join the Appropriations Committee, and rejoined the Budget panel in 1983. Most analysts agree, refreshingly, that race played no part in Gray's election. And, continued on pjge 14

House Kudgel Chairman Kill lira) docsn'l plan In huild a in dams <nr an) nlher public works prnjecD iluriii!! his leniirc â&#x20AC;&#x201D; hill he hopes In keep his finger in Ihc dike lo slem Ihc massiie crnsinn ul social programs slalcd In Ihc Kcagan administration. His success will eliccl Ihc lives ol main persons lor vcars lo come.

The Sphinx/Spring 1985

GRAY Gray is widely known for his interest in African affairs. He authored snccessfnl legislation to set np the African Development Foundation and to increase minority representation in the Foreip Service. One of the first solons to highlight the famine in North Africa, Gray also pushed a ban on I S . corporate investment in South Africa. continued from page 13 while some contend that his election was a matter of being in the right place at the right time, there are some indications that he deftly navigated a few roads and bridges to find the right place. Whatever the scenario, the Congressman was "effective" in his quest for the powerful spot. The power, or at least potential power, in the chairmanship of the Budget Committee is enormous. With the reorganization of the House of Representatives in the 1970's (including the institution of tenure limits on chairmen), the influence of many House panels was diminished. Budget remains at the top of the class; and, with the growing federal deficit, it promises to remain pivotal for years to come. Clearly, Congressman Gray is in a position to yield more power than any Black legislator since Representative Adam Clayton Powell (another Alpha) presided over the House Education and Labor Committee in the 1960's. Congressman Gray is serving in his fourth term in Congress - having successfully challenged in 1978, on his second try, 10-term incumbent Roscoe Nix. In his first term, he served on the Foreign Affairs, Budget and District of Columbia committees; and represented freshmen legislators on the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee. During his second term he chaired the sub-committee on D.C. Government Operations and Metropolitan Affairs, in addition to serving on Appropriations. This 14

term, he again serves on the policy and steering panel. Prior to attaining the Budget job, Gray was perhaps best known to the national audience for his interest in African affairs. Gray-authored legislation to establish the African Development Foundation (to deliver visible U.S. aid to African villages) was the only new program offered by a freshman and passed by Congress in this century. He also sponsored successful legislation to increase the numbers of minority and women officers in the Foreign Service; was among the first legislators to spotlight the famine conditions in Ethiopia and the Sahel; and was a frequent emissary to the continent during the Carter administration. In the last session, Gray authored legislation to ban new investments by U. S. firms in South Africa. The measure, which passed the House but not the Senate, is scheduled to be re-introduced during this session. In civil rights, Gray brought a legal case against a landlord who refused to rent him an apartment. Gray v. Serruto became a precedent-setting civil rights case when a New Jersey court ordered that financial damages be paid by those who discriminate in renting multi-family housing on the basis of race. The Congressman's roots are firmly planted in the Black community. He has been senior minister of Bright Hope Baptist Church in North Philadelphia since 1972 and is the founder and past president of five non-profit housing

corporations which have constructed more than $20 million in low- and moderate-income housing. Gray also helped design the Philadelphia Mortgage Plan, which has produced more than $100 million in residential mortgages for the inner city neighborhoods. Gray was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on August 20, 1942, the son of Hazel Yates and the late Dr. William H. Gray, Jr. - a past Southern Vice President of Alpha Phi Alpha and President of Florida A & M University. He is married to the former Andrea Dash and they are the parents of three sons: William H., IV; Justin Yates and Andrew Dash. As the battle of the budget continues, in 1985 and beyond, Gray indicates that he's prepared to compromise to trim the federal deficit. "I know I'm not going to get any programs passed in this Congress to deal with housing", he said. He adds that "Mr. Recovery" (a parody of the administration line) has not reached his district and that his constituents would benefit from a lower national debt and better economic prospects. Expressing an interest in getting at least $40 billion in spending cuts, Gray maintains that any measure adopted must be fair and equitable. Speaking before the U. S. Conference of Mayors, Gray stated "Our position is that the reductions must not be made simply on the domestic side of spending. Pentagon spending is spending. I think that all spending items are on the table at this time."

The Sphinx/Spring 1985

FOCUS

MORIAL ccording to USA Today, the nation's big-city mayors picked a "seasoned battler" when they elected Ernest ! ^ ^ ^ â&#x201E;˘ N. Dutch Morial to the presidency of the United States Conference of Mayors. To many familiar with Louisiana politics - and Alpha politics - that characterization certainly didn't come as a surprise. Morial was elected Mayor of the City of New Orleans in 1977 and on May 1, 1978 he took office as the first Black Mayor in the history of that city. On March 20, 1982, the voters of New Orleans returned Dutch Morial for a second term. His popularity in the Crescent City remains high, so much so that supporters are now petitioning for a charter change which would allow him to serve an unprecedented third term. The mayor's reputation as a "fighter" stems in part from a series of firsts he has achieved during his lifetime. In 1965-67, he was the first Black U. S. Attorney in the State of Louisiana; 1967-70, the first Black to serve in the State Legislature since Reconstruction; 1973-77, the first Black elected to the Louisiana 4th Circuit Court of Appeals. With Brother A. P. Tureaud, a noted civil rights lawyer, Morial successfully entered suits to eliminate segregation in New Orleans and Louisiana. When state law prohibited teachers from holding membership in civil rights organizations, he successfully challenged the law under the 1st Amendment, his wife Sybil being the sole plaintiff. As Morial settles in the presidency of USCM, an organization of mayors representing cities of 30,000 and more, that image of a politician relishing "combat" has been replaced by that of a statesman seeking "consensus." The new Morial is already winning high praise from his fellow mayors and generating an almost comic sense of bewilderment from the New Orleans press corps (accustomed to "fighting Dutch").

SHtlino in as I'residenl ol Ihe I niled Males Ciinlerenrr of Mayors. Ilutrh Morial has shed his mmbalite image lo emerge as a solid and iiinsiieniious leader of Imeriia's big-rih mayors. His fellow mators. Hipublican and llemiiiralii alike, praise him â&#x20AC;&#x201D; tthile Ihe \ n Orleans press corps ttonders yyhal mirar le has been urnughl in "Iheir" llulrh.

continued

The Sphinx/Spring 1985

on page 16

FOCUS

MORIAL Mayor Morial has led New Orleans through its most extensive period of economic development since the 1860s. Nearly 6,200 new hotel rooms, a new convention center, revitalization of the Mississippi riverfront and a multinational industrial park speak to his success.

continued

from page 15

USCM serves as a major forum for studying urban problems and bringing the needs of the cities to the attention of the nation. Morial admits that, today, the very existence of unique urban problems is often ignored by national powerbrokers and the media. "The administration believes that there are three areas they should be concerned with: federal tax policy . . . defense spending and foreign policy," said the Mayor. "And the cities are left out." Perhaps it is Morial's prodding on that particular theme - the lack of concern for city problems, rather than particular solutions to problems (such as welfare, job training, etc.) that has galvanized support behind him during his brief tenure in the office. Despite the 2-1 Democratic majority in the conference, Mayor Morial has worked hard to involve Republican mayors in setting the group's agenda and tone. This, he believes, gives added credibility to USCM concerns with the White House and, perhaps most importantly, with the public. "We don't want to be frozen off in a corner," he said, "we want to share in the process to minimize the impact" (on the cities) of federal decisions. Mayor Morial has also led New Orleans through its most extensive period of office building construction

and economic development since the 1860's. Nearly 6,200 new hotel rooms and a new $98 million Convention Center have helped boost the local tourist economy. The newly-contracted Rouse-New Orleans Complex, Venture International and the Jax Brewery Development will revitalize the Mississippi riverfront area of the city and bring new commerce and industry to the French Quarter and downtown New Orleans. The new 7,000 acre Almonaster-Michoud Industrial District is attracting corporate and multinational firms from around the nation and the world to the city's first industrial park. Because of his administration's efforts, more than 16,000 new jobs have come to the growing New Orleans economy. Even prior to his election as Conference president, Morial was heavily involved in policy-making at USCM. He served as chairperson of its Task Force on Joblessness and Hunger. He organized committees and developed strategies to address the hunger problems in American cities on a national level, and also organized local public-private partnerships to support New Orleans food banks. He will use his position as USCM head to advance stronger policies for cities and those who live there. He also serves on the Advisory Council

of the National League of Cities, the Steering Committee of the National Urban Coalition and the National Board of Directors of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. In a variety of capacities, Mayor Morial has also given service to many boards and organizations including, but not limited to, the New Orleans Branch of the NAACP, American Bar Association and the National Bar Association. He also served as General President of Alpha Phi Alpha, from 196972; general counsel of Standard Life Insurance Company and director of the mortgage loan department of the Knights of Peter Claver. In other civic duties, he is a member of the Board of Directors of Loyola University, the Tulane University Board of Governors, and Xavier University Board of Trustees. In his new capacity, Mayor Morial has attempted to convince federal officials that, even considering the federal debt, the problems of the cities are important; and indeed essential to the well-being of the nation. "We're all concerned about the security of the nation," he said, "but in having a strong America we must also have domestic tranquility. Without that, there's no need for a strong defense."

The Sphinx/Spring 1985

FOCUS

BURIS espite the searing controversy surrounding his election as one of three Vice Chairmen of the m mmm ^ Democratic National Committee, Roland Burris is happy to have the job. And, he's confident that his election will have positive results for the party, for Black Americans and for all citizens of this nation. After a bout of criticism from supporters of his vanquished opponent, Gary Mayor Richard Hatcher, Burris said "Blacks are calling me from all over the nation saying we are moving forward." First, a bit of history. Burris, one of only three Blacks now holding a statewide elected office in the U.S., challenged incumbent DNC Vice Chairman Hatcher for the party post in January. Hatcher urged the party to continue its recent practice of allowing the organization's 53-member Black Caucus to choose the occupant of this office. Burris announced prior to any voting that he preferred staying in the race before the entire 378member body. Hatcher won caucus endorsement by a 32-25 vote margin, but in voting before the full committee Burris prevailed, 198-148. Reaction from Hatcher supporters, including Texas Representative Mickey Leland (the outgoing DNC Black Caucus chairman) was swift and vitrolic. Chicago columnist Vernon Jarrett gave the following account: "Leland has branded Burns an 'Uncle Tom' and slave-like 'house nigger'. Hatcher followed by calling Burris a 'Judas' and a 'John Wilkes Booth.'" Burns' reaction was to remain calm, diplomatic and dignified qualities which have served him well in the past and which promise to work for the common good in his future efforts. As Jarrett also noted, no foul play was involved in Burris' gain of the DNC job. No party rules were broken, suspended or breached; nor was any overwhelming sentiment of Black Caucus members flaunted, in continued on page 18

lioland Burris hopes to keep Black tmcriians in Ihe mainstream of (he He mm ratii Parlv -â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and help Ihe parlv reiapl iire the allegiance ol the majorilv of Ameriians. liiven Ihe rurrenl racial climate in this roiinlrv . Ihal won't he an easv task, lliirris. however, is Ihe eternal optimist.

The Sphinx/Spring 1985

BURRIS Roland Burris was blasted by the right for his early support of Harold Washington's bid to become Mayor of Chicago. He was blasted from the left for his challenge to DM Vice Chairman Richard Hatcher. Both efforts were successful - and Burris feels confident that they were in the best interest of Black Americans. continued from page 17 that 46% of them had originally supported Burris. In Jarrett's words, "Burris simply refused to let 32 Hatcher supporters stop him from running for Vice Chairman of the Democratic party." Why did Burris want to be DNC Vice Chair? And what can he bring to this office that will benefit Black Americans and the nation? Those who know the Illinois Comptroller say he wanted the job because he feels capable of handling it - pure and simple. He brings to the task the ability to merge grassroots politics from a decidedly Black base - with mainstream power brokering, as he has proven time and time again. In his h o m e state of Illinois, Burris' election as Comptroller made him the only Black in that state to survive a statewide election - in part because he was born and raised in mostly white downstate Illinois. Initially elected in 1978, he led votegetters for all state offices in his 1982 re-election campaign, garnering more than 2.3 million votes. He placed second to Paul Simon (who subsequently upset incumbent Sen. Charles Percy) in the 1984 Democratic senatorial primary. And he has done an outstanding job as the state's top fiscal officer, overseeing a $17 billion budget. This same Roland Burris was the first major Black officeholder to support Harold Washington's bid for Mayor of Chicago. Washington's announcement came in 1982, while Burris himself was campaigning 18

statewide, and while most other Black politicians shied away in deference to the vaunted "Chicago Machine." Burris also switched his support from Mondale to Jackson in the Democratic scramble for votes. Chicago Tribune columnist Clarence Page has characterized Burris' networking skills as "building bridges between ethnic groups and winning elections without compromising his integrity." To carry out his new duties, Burris will call upon all of the experiences gained during his multi-faceted career - as a federal bank examiner, Vice President of Continental Illinois National Bank, Director of the Illinois General Services Administration, and as (for a brief stint) Executive Director of Operation PUSH. Still, the n e w Vice C h a i r m a n faces a monumental task. Conservative Democrats are calling for the virtual desertion of Black concerns in an effort to counter the Reaganites - despite the fact that Blacks consistently give the overwhelming majority of their votes to the party. Some Black leaders, led by Rev. Jesse Jackson, contend that the party must be made more accountable to Blacks because of that support - apparently not seeing, or caring about, the white backlash that more than negates such efforts. Burris is determined to steer the middle ground and, initial criticism notwithstanding, most of the columns, editorials and letters-to-the editor published since the DNC election indicate broad support for at least attempting such a course.

Burris is optimistic about his prospects for success, and for continued progress for Black Americans. He notes that one result of his decision to press forward to gain the Vice Chairmanship was that two Blacks, rather than the symbolic one, gained top office (Sharon Pratt Dixon, initially a candidate for chairman, was elected DNC treasurer). His no-nonsense style is shown when he adds that "We (Black Americans) have been bruised and battered . . . but we have still survived. And survival is the name of the game." As to his new post, he states "I will continue to tear down the walls that divide us, and will continue to build bridges to connect us. We need Blacks representing whites, we need whites voting for Blacks. That's what I'm going to (work for) as Vice Chairman of the Democratic National Party." That task, however, is not the only one facing Roland Burris in the near future. The past president of the National State Comptrollers Association is now President-Elect of the National Association of State Auditors, Comptrollers and Treasurers. In addition, he has indicated that he expects to move up on the statewide Democratic ticket in 1986. Most pundits guess that he'll vie for the nomination for Illinois Attorney General, and he's seen as the favorite at this point. In any case, Roland Burris will be on the national scene for some time to come.

The Sphinx/Spring 1985

COMMENTARY Ethics and Athletics: Are They

Compatible? Huel D. Perkins test scores, to providing a quarterback with a new car every year, to having athletes receive grades in courses which they never attended, to forcing injured players to participate in the "big" game. Minority athletes, especially, are usually the victims of such shady practices. Why do these unethical practices abound? The answer might be found in the American system itself if we look closely enough. At the turn of the century, W. E. B. DuBois wrote these words in his celebrated collection of essays entitled The Souls of Black Folk: "To be poor is hard, but to be a poor race in a land of dollars is the very bottom of hardships." Understanding this passage is crucial to understanding a black boy's attitude toward sports. Socioeconomic conditions must be taken into account when choices of careers are pondered. It is evident to many black youngsters that the surest way out of the ghetto is by way of sports and entertainment. The role models are there for all to see. Where are the black millionaires? Certainly they are not among the college professors. Hence, education becomes the less visible route out of the demeaning conditions in which one finds himself in this country of dollars.

Sport is perhaps the most rule-bound

activity in

which we engage; yet there are more rules broken in sports through devious

means

than in any other activity.

If the recent scandal at a prominent university in the South did nothing else, it served to call to the nation's attention for the onethousandth time that there is something radically wrong with college athletics. Just when we were about to recover from the debate on the celebrated Proposition 48 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; which will be instituted in its original version beginning in 1986 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; we are faced with yet another woe involving point-shaving, cocaine, shoe boxes of The Sphinx/Spring 1985

money, a fraternity's involvement, elimination of a sport by the president of the institution, and possible elimination of this university from the conference in which it now competes. Where will it all end? Violations run rampant through much of sports. They range all the way from altering a high school student's academic transcript, to threatening to bomb the home of the principal who refuses to alter the transcript, to changing admission

The mass media must also be considered a part of this explanation of mass gravitation toward sports by minorities. Televised sporting events attract the largest viewing audiences in this country. Youngsters come to know O. J., and Doctor J., and Reggie J., and Magic J., before they are able to learn any other letter of the alphabet. The hype is overwhelming. The life of a professional athlete becomes insidious. Economically deprived children are attracted to the salaries, the lifestyles, the publicity and the adulation which an athlete receives. And they become caught up in athletics' immoral and unsavory continued on page 20 14

continued from page 19 web of behavior. Who is to blame? In a paper by Professor D. Standley Eitzen given at a recent conference on athletics, he assures us that there is enough blame to go around. He questions the ethics of coaches, for indeed learned behavior feeds on itself. He questions the ethics of college and university administrators when the won-lost record dictates hiring and retention decisions and, indeed, places bread on the table of coaches and their families. He turns to the media again, for they make use of any means possible to promote telecasts and increase audiences. And the athletes themselves must come in for some share of the blame. There must be some things that honest and upright people will not do — even for money. The fact that everybody else is doing it does not ameliorate the situation or give it sanction. Benjamin Mays used to ask the question: "If everyone were going to hell, would you wish to join them?" There must be limits — there must be guideposts. Once a philosopher was asked if it were possible to live in a world with absolutely no moral values. His reply was sagacious: As one travels through life, it is possible to land on different shores. Without values, what do we steer our lives by? Our values are the rudders which guide us through this sometimes turbulent existence. Two ironies come quickly to mind in this examination of sports and

Brother Huel Perkins, a regular columnist in our Commentary section — is Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. Louisiana.

ethical behavior. The first is this: Sport is perhaps the most rule-bound activity in which we engage — three minute rounds, 12 minute quarters, 30 minute halves, exact field dimensions — and yet there are more rules broken in sports through devious means than in any other activity. I need not mention the brutality, the violence, and the blatant cheating which transpire in many sports activities. Television documents them for us every single day. The second irony is this: If indeed the primary purpose of sports participation is to

have young people learn the lessons of life, then sports is providing some very sordid examples of how we must live. What can be done? Is this problem too ingrained to beg a solution? Does America wish to deal with its shame of sports? It appears that the only way to attack the problem is to appeal to the nobler instincts in mankind. Athletes, coaches, administrators, the public must join in an all-out effort to turn sports in another direction. There is danger when an entire nation refuses to be guided by ethical principles. As John Underwood of Sports Illustrated suggests: ". . . it is time for American sport to realize that a stand for sportsmanship and fair play without intimidation or brutality will not tilt the axis on which this planet spins . . . It is a moral issue, not a political one. It must be based on the inner conviction that to win by going outside the rules and the spirit of the rules is not really to win at all." Ethics in athletics lies at the heart of what the Greeks were debating centuries ago: how to make men and women better than they are; how to have men and women act toward each other in a spirit of justice and fair play; how to have men and women come to know the right and govern themselves by it. If America cannot make these distinctions, then it must be prepared to join the other nations in the graveyard of civilization that did not, could not, discern the difference.

There's A World Of Difference At

THE ATLANTA HILTON AND TOWERS. HEADQUARTERS HOTEL FOR THE Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

79th ANNIVERSARY CONVENTION AUGUST 9-15, 1985 A WORLD CLASS HOTEL IN A GREAT AMERICAN CITY. Courtland and Harris Sts., N.E., Atlanta, Ga. 30043 20

The Sphinx/Spring 1985

LEGACY

A Relentless Foe of Racial and Social Injustice F RATER EXTRAORDINAIRE The Obituary of Brother Belford V. Lawson, Jr., 16th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., as prepared for Funeral Services, February 27, 1985, Andrew Rankin Chapel, Howard University, Washington, DC. Edited for The Sphinx by Michael J. Price. ss

JK s Life is action and m\ passion, it is required of ^^Âť a man that he should share the actions and passions of his time, at peril of being judged not to have lived." Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes. Jr Brother BELFORD V. LAWSON, JR., The 16th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., a distinguished attorney, noted civil rights activist, humanitarian, civic, business and fraternal leader, entered Omega Chapter on February 23, 1985, at Southern Maryland Hospital. He was born on July 9, 1901, as one of eleven children to Mr. Belford and Mrs. Sarah Hickman Lawson, in Roanoke, Virginia. Alpha Phi Alpha Omega Rites were held for Brother Lawson on Tuesday, February 26, 1985 at the Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel of Howard University, Washington, DC. Father Jerry Hargrove, Chaplain of the Mu L a m b d a Chapter (Washington), p r e s i d e d at the memorial ritual - with words of tribute offered to Brother Lawson by Brother C. C. House of Mu Lambda and Brother William Ross, Jr., the Fraternity's Eastern Vice President. General President Charles C. Teamer, Sr. and Editor-in-Chief of The Sphinx Michael J. Price represented the General Organization at these services. Funeral Services for Brother Lawson were held on Wednesday, February 27th, at Rankin Chapel. Brother Evans E. Crawford, Dean of the Chapel, was the officiant. Tributes to Brother Lawson were offered by: Herbert O. Reid (Howard The Sphinx/Spring 1985

Brother Belford V. Lawson was characterised as "the quintessence of class, urbanity, stvle, grace, eloquence and wit. " Law School); General President Teamer (Alpha Phi Alpha); Atty. Wiley Branton (the legal profession); Thomas B. Hargrove, Jr. (YMCA); James G. Banks (business); The Hon. Theodore M. Berry, former Mayor of Cincinnati; The Hon. L. Howard Bennett; and Congressman Walter E. Fauntroy.

fter attending Ferris Institute (Big Rapids, MI), Brother Lawson matriculated at the University of Michigan, from which he graduated in 1924. He was the school's first Black varsity football player and there he was initiated into Epsilon Chapter in 1922. As a young continued on page 24

1984 - 85 Chapter Report of Program Activities Please complete the following questionnaire for the period covering AUGUST 1, 1984 through MAY 30, 1985 only. CHAPTER NAME KEY NUMBER

LOCATION

I. PROGRAM ACTIVITIES A. SCHOLARSHIPS (Describe awards, criteria, amounts, etc.)

B. FOUNDERS DAY (Describe events, awards, etc.)

C. OTHERS (Describe fully)

II. CONTRIBUTIONS *A. *B. "C. D.

NAACP National Urban League United Negro College Fund Others:

Amount $_ Amount $^ Amount $_

Amount $ Amount $ Amount $ 'Do not include contributions to theAlpha Million Dollar Fund Drive

REPORT SUBMITTED BY: IMPORTANT: Return this completed report by

September 30, 1985

Name

to: Title Your Regional Vice President

Address City, State, Zip Code

The Sphinx/Spring 1985

He Created The Future of age, such as Alpha Phi Alpha, the accumulated wisdom of great men is a store constantly called upon for nourishment, for guidance, for spiritual uplift in the management of daily tasks. Even on an occasion such as this, I turn to my Alpha Brothers of years past and seek the appropriate words, the precise sentiment. Always, in Alpha Phi Alpha, the answer is there to be found.

A DISTINGUISHED FRATERNAL LEADER A tribute to Belford V. Lawson, Jr., on behalf of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., presented at funeral services on February 27, 1985. By Charles C. Teamer, Sr.

now ye not that there is a prince and a great man has fallen this day in Israel." These were the words of David, the King, concerning the tragic death of a great leader. David wept. All the people wept. David refused to eat that day because a great leader had fallen. These words express the emotions of the men of Alpha, today. Dean Crawford, Mrs. Lawson, Brother Belford III, Friends and Family... My duty, as the General President of Black America's first Greek-letter collegiate fraternity . . . requires that I come today and join with the family and friends of a great Alpha Man Belford V. Lawson, Jr. This I do, on behalf of more than 100,000 men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. We journey here not to mourn his passing, but to celebrate his great and fruitful life. In an organization nearly 80 years

LEGACY nitiated in 1922 into our Epsilon Chapter at the University of Michigan, Brother Lawson was on the national scene by 1923, as a delegate of the General Convention in Columbus, Ohio. At the 1934 Special Convention, called by General President Charles H. Wesley to weigh the impact of the New Deal on Black Americans, Brother Lawson detailed the case of Southern schools which taxed their Black population, but made no provision for their professional and graduate training. Few remember his role in the incorporation of the Alpha Phi Alpha Education Foundation, which began its operation with a scholarship to one John Hope Franklin (among others) and most recently served as Alpha's conduit to present more than one-

half million dollars to the UNCF, MAACP and National Urban League. By 1937, Brother Lawson was General Counsel of Alpha Phi Alpha succeeding Brother Theodore M. Berry, later Mayor of Cincinnati. His distinguished service in this position, in conjunction with Alpha Men like Thurgood Marshall and Charles Houston, is perhaps the most publicized part of his career. t the 31st General Convention, in 1945, Brother Belford V. Lawson, Jr. was elected General President of Alpha Phi Alpha. A favorite Lawson quote from Malraux's "Conquerors" can sum up his great contribution to Alpha - "Man defends and redeems himself only by creating the future." The election of Belford Lawson was a brilliant, shining ray to a new generation . . . saying to the world in a loud, stentorian voice, "Yes, Alpha Phi Alpha and Black America, we have a future, to be coupled with our glorious past." Indeed, when I entered college in 1950, Belford V. Lawson, Jr. held the office of General President of Alpha Phi Alpha . . . and he held it with a dignity and aplomb that made older men say "Well Done"; and younger men marvel and want to emulate this Ebony Knight of the Table Round. continued on page 24

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For half a century, Belford Lawson (seated, second from left) took his rightful place among the giants of Alpha. Four others in the photograph served as General President: Rayford Logan (standing, extreme left); and, seated from left, Jewel Henry A. Callis; Lionel Newson; and Charles H. Weslev. The Sphinx/Spring 1985

FRATER EXTRAORDINAIRE continued from page 21 graduate, he taught at Morris Brown College in Atlanta, Georgia, until he entered Yale Law School. Following two years of legal studies at Yale, and after the exhaustion of his funds, he went to Washington, D.C. where he took up employment at the Supreme Liberty Life Insurance Company. Soon thereafter, he enrolled at Howard University School of Law, where he received the LL.B. Degree in 1932. fter his a d m i s s i o n to t h e District of Columbia Bar in 1933, he was determined to demonstrate that a Black attorney, devoting his full time to the legal profession, could be successful and also help his people. To inspire and motivate other young Black lawyers to pursue full-time law practice, he disdained employment in government or other positions, even during the Depression era, and opened his own law office - where he practiced for 44 years until his retirement in 1977. He held memberships in the Washington Bar Association, the National Bar Association, the Bar Association of the District of Columbia, and the American Bar Association. His law firm was the launching site for many young attorneys, some of whom are now judges and outstanding members of the legal profession. Always eager to elevate the image of the Black attorney, his law firm which included as a partner his wife, a former Juvenile Court jurist and a distinguished attorney in her own right - was the first Black firm to move downtown to Washington's central business district, initially on the "K" Street, then to Connecticut Avenue. Throughout his legendary career, during which he acquired a national reputation as a brilliant and skilled trial advocate, Brother Lawson was a relentless foe of racial and social injustice - with a boundless passion for justice, dignity and equality for members of his race. Early in his career, he was in the vanguard of attorneys handling civil rights and labor cases before the United States Supreme Court. He was the lead attorney in the case of N e w Negro Alliance v. Sanitary Grocery, decided by the court in 1937 - upholding the principle of the "secondary boycott" based on the slogan,

"Buy where you can work." He also argued the case of Henderson v. United States, a case that abolished segregation in railroad dining cars, decided by the Court in 1950. rother Lawson was multidimensional, as evidenced by his varied interests and myriad intellectual pursuits. His distinguished legal career was paralleled by major achievements in business, social, civic and fraternal endeavors. In addition to serving as Alpha's General President for 6 years (1946-51), Brother Lawson was the first Black to serve on the Boards of the Madison National Bank and the Chesapeake and Potomac Telephone Company. After serving as branch president and board president of the Metropolitan Washington YMCA, he went on to become the National President of the YMCA - the first Black to attain this position. He also served on the boards of the American Red Cross and the International Club; was Vice Chairman of the United Negro College Fund; and was a member of the Metropolitan Washington Board of Trade and the Federal City Council. Congressman Fauntroy, in his remarks, highlighted Brother Lawson's work as a role model and counselor in his position as past President and Board Chairman of the Junior Citizens Corporation - where he was committed to reclaiming young lives otherwise destined to be cast overboard as the "flotsam and jetsam" of our society.

Brother Lawson was an advisor, counselor and confidant to high political figures and diplomats. He and his wife were among the early supporters of the late President John F. Kennedy. In 1956, he prophetically declared that Mr. Kennedy would be the first Catholic elected President of the United States. n a d d i t i o n to his vast legal scholarship and renowned advocacy in the legal forum, Brother Lawson was a superb and gifted elocutionist, whose profound oratorical skills transformed the spoken word into a melodic symphony of prose. His eloquent renditions remain the standard for others to seek to emulate. Brother Lawson was continued on page 25

FRATERNAL LEADER continued from page 23 His impeccable dress, his captivating persona, his booming oratory - his beautiful and talented wife, Marjorie . . . symbolized, for us, all that Black Americans could strive for, and would attain when Freedom Rang. efore the victory of Brown v. Topeka, before the March to Montgomery of Martin Luther King, Jr. . . . there was Belford V. Lawson, Jr. saying "We can and we must" continue the struggle. His vision carried us into the '50's ready for the revolution which was to come. The leadership and work of Alpha Men like Martin Luther King, Jr., Andrew Young, Marion Barry, my own Mayor Ernest Morial and others can be attributed to the leadership he inspired in thousands of young Black Americans. In fact, "B.V." nominated "Dutch" Morial for General President of Alpha Phi Alpha. How proud he must be to know that, today, his protege heads one of America's greatest cities and chairs the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Belford Lawson's blazing oratory is most fondly remembered by Alpha Men. In 1985, for the first time in many years, the General Convention of Alpha Phi Alpha will feature an oratorical competition for college men. This is a part of our continuing Leadership Development program, which is designed to nurture in Black Americans today the skills and selfconfidence that we took for granted in our educational lives. Preliminary contests are already underway across this nation, in our state and regional meetings. We can do no less than designate this exercise the Belford V. Lawson, Jr. Award for Oratory. This we shall do, to keep alive for generations to come the spirit of Belford Lawson and to kindle, as he did, another generation of young talented Black men who will gaze upon the Alpha legacy of Leadership and Service and say "We Can and We Must . . Carry On!" Belford V. Lawson, Jr. represented the College of Friendship, the University of Brotherly Love, the School for the Better Making of Men. As Alpha Men, we re-dedicate ourselves to the causes for which he so nobly and eloquently stood.

The Sphinx/Spring 1985

Belford Was Bodacious A SKILLED TRIAL ADVOCATE A tribute to Belford V. Lawson, Jr., on behalf of the legal profession, presented at funeral services on February 27, 1985. By Wiley Branton

elford V. Lawson, Jr., has been described over the years by some very descriptive adjectives of a complimentary nature: — suave - elegant - urbane - eloquent debonair - gracious - handsome charismatic - polished - impressive, to name a few. 1 come there today as a representative of that great and noble calling that Belford Lawson and I shared — the legal profession. In paying tribute to Belford, we also honor his dear wife, Marjorie, who shared both his life and his profession (as a legal team). When Mr. Lawson graduated from Howard Law School more than 50 years ago, Black lawyers were few in number and they were confronted with rigid segregation and discrimination in the courts — in the organized bar — yes, even here in the nation's Capital. Belford launched his private practice during a difficult period, but one would never know that there were any difficulties confronting Belford because he always gave the appearance of owning the world. He was bodacious in his early efforts, seeking fair employment practices long before Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. brought his audacity to Washington; he championed pride and power in Black people before Rap Brown was born; and, he took the position that no one was going to turn him around before the Southern Freedom Fighters ever dreamed of the day when that attitude would form one of their freedom songs. n 1934, Maryland colleges were segregated. Maryland had no law r e q u i r i n g s e g r e g a t i o n in its colleges, nor did the rules of the University of Maryland prohibit the admission of Black students. Mr.

The Sphinx/Spring 1985

Lawson was one of the organizers of the New Negro Alliance and he shared a strategy view that the bias of the people running the University of Maryland could be challenged in court. With the backing of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, he threatened legal action. Richard Kluger, in his revealing book "Simple Justice", indicates that Mr. Lawson's threat pressured Charles H a m i l t o n H o u s t o n into authorizing Thurgood Marshall to file the case of Donald Gaines Murray against the University of Maryland. A favorable decision was won and one more barrier against segregation was removed. Unfortunately, Belford Lawson was left out of the lawsuit.

LEGACY On May 17, 1942, Elmer Henderson, who is here today, was enroute from Washington to Birmingham on the Southern Railroad. Although he had a first class ticket, he was denied dining car service because there were some white passengers sitting at the table normally used for serving "colored" people. Mr. Henderson declined the offer to have his food sent to his Pullman car and subsequently retained Belford V. Lawson, Jr. to challenge the Interstate Commerce Commission's approval of the railroad's segregation practices. With the financial backing of Alpha Phi Alpha, the case went all the way to the Supreme Court of the United States with the arguments on Mr. Henderson's behalf being made by Belford V. Lawson Jr., and Jawn Sandifer. Other lawyers appearing on the brief with them inc l u d e d : Marjorie M. M c K e n z i e (Lawson), Charlotte R. Pinkett and Aubrey E. Robinson, Jr., of Washington, D.C.; Sidney A. Jones, Jr. and Earl B. Dickerson of Chicago; Josiah F. Henry of Baltimore; William M. McClain and Theodore M. Berry of Cincinnati; George H. Windsor, then of Greensboro, N.C.; and, one Edward W. Brooke with no listed city appearing on the opinion.

Solicitor General Philip Perlman and~his principal assistant, Philip

Elman, wanted the Justice Department to go on record as opposing the I.C.C. regulations and, therefore, support Mr. Henderson's position. Although Attorney General J. Howard McGrath had no record of helping black people advance in civil rights, he approved the action of his Solicitor General. The Supreme Court gave Mr. Henderson, and all of us, a victory on June 5, 1950 when it held that no person may be subjected to any undue or unreasonable prejudice or disadvantage in any respect whatsoever in interstate commerce. Belford Lawson had won his case, and ano t h e r barrier of segregation w a s removed. oday, there are black lawyers holding top jobs in the judiciary, as partners in law firms and in legal positions generally. These things did not just happen. I suspect that many of us are standing on the bodacious shoulders of men like Belford V. Lawson, Jr. Thank you Marjorie and Belford III, for sharing your husband and father with so many of us — for the common good of all.

FRATER continued from page 24 a charismatic person, who was the quintessence of class, urbanity, style, grace, eloquence and wit. Although he walked among the mighty and the noble, he was equally at home with the meek and humble. Brother Lawson is survived by his wife, The H o n o r a b l e Marjorie McKenzie Lawson; his son, Brother Belford V. Lawson, III, an attorney with the Federal Communications Commission; two brothers, William and John Lawson, of Chicago; and, two sisters, Ms. Sadie Lawson, of Roanoke, Virginia and Mrs. Julia Lochard, of Chicago. Brother Belford V. Lawson, Jr. was the consummate lawyer and freedom fighter, who was unalterably committed to the social betterment of all humankind and the elevation of the human spirit. The weapons in his arsenal were courage, scholarship, wisdom and excellence. He lived! 25

ALPHA ATHLETES French City Salutes Jesse Owens can accommodate nearly every sport imaginable. In keeping with its populist message, the complex is available to all, including the handicapped - featuring wheelchair ramps and elevators between the levels. Its other amenities include equipment rooms, cloak rooms and a cafeteria. Speakers at the inaugural ceremonies noted that the complex was being named for Jesse Owens to signify the people's opposition to racism and intolerance, and to affirm the ideals of justice and freedom for all (as symbolized by Owens). The construction of the monument to Brother The Jesse Owens Hall of Sports in Seclin, France was dedicated on February 2, 1985. Owens is both fitting and ironic. The irony is that "BERLIN, 1936 - The M. Jean Demailly, Mayor the all-white Lawrence noise from the boots of Seclin and Regional County Council (in Owens' resound throughout the Councillor and M. Nelson native county in Alabama ) Paillou, President of the stadium. In this capital has blocked placement of city of Nazi Germany, French Olympic Committee. a monument to Owens on where the Olympic games Located in the the courthouse lawn in are taking place, a Black Mouchonniere quarter of Oakville, Alabama. With American athlete accom- the city, the edifice sports land donated by a local plishes an exploit which an ultra-modern facade Black Masonic lodge, an will only be equalled 48 featuring vaulted ceilings alternate memorial was fiyears later in Los Angeles. and large bay windows. nally unveiled in 1984, Jesse Owens wins 4 gold The complex is designed with the following inscripmedals. This was a real af- for use by all of the people tion: "He inspired a world LLurnuour APHA MEN I front to the sinister of the city, especially the 1Q3G OLYMPIAD enslaved in tyranny and peddlers of the theory of young people of the brought hope to his fellow THE "SPHINX Aryan superiority. The schools and sports associman. From the cotton tall, handsome and strong ations. It can serve some OCTOBER PICTORIAL NUMBER 1936 fields of Oakville to the blond takes a blow to his 4,000 athletes, quite an acclaim of the whole all-white virility." accomplishment for a city Cover of The Sphinx (October, world, he made us proud of 14,000. 1936) salutes Jesse Owens to be Lawrence Countians." Original in the area, the A French publication reand fellow Alpha Olympians The Lawrence County called this historic event to Jesse Owens complex has following the Berlin Games. Council notwithstanding, two levels. The first is mark the inauguration, on Other medalists were Ralph that message of universal comprised of three trainFebruary 2, 1985, of the Metcalfe (gold and silver) love and brotherhood still Jesse Owens Sports Com- ing rooms - a dance hall, a and Dave Albritton (silver). lives around the world. plex in Seclin, France. The room for martial arts and Owens' 10.3 second mark in It is nowhere more evicombat s p o r t s (boxing, pavilion, heralded as a the 100 meter dash broke the dent than in the Hall of wrestling), and a gymnas"Cathedral of Athletes," previous record held by Sports, Seclin, France. tics room. The second was inaugurated with five Brother Eddie Tolan. Jesse Owens - our Olymspeeches and a wide array floor is dedicated to a pic hero - would be proud! of personalities, including omni-sports room which 26

The Sphinx/Spring 1985

Brother Julian M. Baker 11111111111111 Brother JULIAN M. BAKER of

Hampton, Virginia, was named "Alpha Man of the Year" by the members of Delta Beta Lambda Chapter. The award, the highest honor that the Chapter can bestow, was presented to Baker at the Annual Founders' Day Program, celebrated jointly by the Hampton and Newport News Chapters of the fraternity. Baker, a native of Gatesville, North

Carolina, was recognized for his outstanding contributions in the fields of education and civic affairs and for his dedication and service to his church and to the fraternity. A retired teacher with more thai thirty years of service in the Newpo News Public School System, Baker is an officer or a board member of several business, professional and civic organizations. Among these, he is Manager of the Newport News Teachers Credit Union League, Manager and Treasurer of the Federal Credit Union and member of the Trustee Board of the Queen Street Baptist Church, H a m p t o n , Life Member and Treasurer of Delta Beta Lambda Chapter, and Life Member of the NAACP. Baker also is a Past President of the Eastern Star Lodge #13, A.M. and F. Masons and Past President of the Virginia State Industrial Arts Association. The citation accompanying the award presented to Baker read in part, "The work he does, the positions he holds, the responsibilities he bears, reveal the true spirit of an Alpha man. As servant of all he transcends all." IIIIIUIUIUI Brother WAYNE

BALDWIN,

Chicago, Illinois native and senior music major at Alcorn State Universi-

Brother John Hendricks, left, presents the Presser Scholarship to Brother Wayne Baldwin.

The Sphinx/Spring 1985

ty, Lorman, Mississippi, was recently awarded the prestigious Presser Scholarship in the amount of $1,000. Brother Baldwin is the son of Mrs. Dorothy Bush and Dr. E. D. Baldwin of Chicago. A member of Delta Kappa Chapter, he is a 1980 graduate of P. L. Julian High School in Chicago. Baldwin received the scholarship due to his outstanding academic achievements, not only in the field of music, but in other subjects as well. The Presser Scholarship is made possible by the Presser Foundation of Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania to a music major at or after the end of the student's junior year. The foundation is dedicated to the improvement of music and music education. Brother Baldwin was selected unanimously by the music faculty at Alcorn for the award. Presenting the award during the Annual Honors Program Ceremony was Brother John I. Hendricks. Brother Hendricks is Director of the Division of Education and Psychology at Alcorn State University. He is a former chairman of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Election Commission. Illllllllllllt

Brother CHARLES M. COFFIN, JR., the President of Eta Iota Lambda Chapter, Athens, Georgia, has been selected for reassignment to the prestigious Air Force Logistics Management Center, in Montgomery, Alabama at Gunter AFS. He will work as a Program Manager in the Contracting Directorate, and will be responsible for analyzing, researching, and providing solutions to Base Level Contracting problems raised by the Pentagon and other major commands in the Air Force. Brother Coffin is currently closing out a superb tour of duty as an Assistant Professor of Aerospace Studies at the University of Georgia's AFROTC Detachment 160. During his three year stay, he was instrumental in Det 160's ranking of number one in the Southeast Area for two years in a row and their receipt of the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. Additionally, his performance as Commandant of Cadets, Recruiting Officer and Safety Officer was rated "excellent" by the Air Force Inspector General during his visit in January 1984. He also received two Superior Recruiting Awards and was selected as the Com28

Church has also been outstanding. Brother Coffin is the father of four future Alpha men: Taron, Terrance, Rennie and Royce. Brother Coffin is truly and literally an Alpha Man on the Move.

Illllllllllllt

Brother Charles M. Coffin, Jr. pany Grade Officer of the QuarterSoutheast Area, for the period of January-March 1984. Furthermore, he enhanced his professional military education by completing the Air Command and Staff Course, which is designed to prepare mid-level officers for increasing roles of responsibilities in the Air Force. Finally, HQAFROTC selected him to be featured in a national minority recruiting advertisement and as the focus of a feature story for the nation's oldest Black newspaper, The Philadelphia Tribune, concerning his Air Force career. A native of Philadelphia, Captain Coffin was initiated into Beta Epsilon Chapter, North Carolina A & T State University in April 1974, where he subsequently became the chapter's first life member and received his B.S. in Business Administration. He also holds an M.B.A. from Southern Illinois University-Ed wardsville. Since arriving in Athens in 1982, he has truly made his mark on the chapter as he has been chairman of the Career Awareness Day Program for two years, advisor to Zeta Pi, VicePresident, President, delegate to state, regional and national conventions, Man of the Year-1983, and Charles Green Award recipient in 1984. Brother Coffin's outstanding leadership has transcended beyond professional and fraternal boundaries, as his community work in the PTO, Cub Scouts and Ebenezer Baptist

Brother ELMER C. COLLINS was appointed by Ohio Governor Richard Celeste to the state's Special Education Advisory Board. He joins a largely Republican panel, on which at least four of the members must be the parents of handicapped children and four others must have shown an interest in the problems of the disabled. Brother Collins, the son of a black father and Cherokee mother, still remembers the difficulties he faced as a college student and as one of the first Blacks to get a master's degree from what was then Western Reserve University in Cleveland.

Brother Elmer C. Collins After teaching in the Cleveland schools for 18 years, Brother Collins was promoted to principal in 1960. He was promoted again to an administrative post in 1965 and worked as the director of state- and federally-funded programs until he retired in 1977. After his retirement, he spent five years supervising a federally-funded program for Indian education in five cities around the state. Brother Collins, who has lived in a Euclid highrise with his wife, Mary, for 11 years, still carries himself like the physical education teacher he The Sphinx/Spring 1985

once was. His square shoulders and stocky build are evidence of frequent rounds at the city-owned Briardale Golf Course and workouts at a nearby health spa. Brother Collins applauds the progress that has been made for the physically and mentally handicapped in public schools, like installing ramps for the wheelchair-bound. To prepare for his work on the state panel, he has toured programs at several area schools. "They're doing good things," he noted, "that should have been done a long time ago."

funded by the U.S. Department of Education, is sponsored by the Council of Chief State School Officers and the Institute for Educational Leadership in Washington, D.C. It is designed for senior state education agency executives to further the exchange of federal and state perspectives of major educational policy issues and to meet the continuing professional development needs of senior state education agency executives. Dr. Cotman, Midwestern Vice President of Alpha, will be placed for a sixweek executive assignment with the Commission of Excellence in the U.S. Department of Education focusing on personnel and information network development and computer-based education activities.

ficial scorer of the Miller/Sowega Invitational Basketball Tournament (Albany State's Invitational Basketball Tournament) for the past two years. He has also served as the official socrer for the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) Track and Field Championship Meet for the past three years. Moreover, he is a voting committee member of the National Association For Women Sports and the Black College Sports Information Directors of Americal All America Committee. Jackson, former the Sposrt Informa-

Brother EDGAR J. HAMILTON, president of Xi Lambda, in 1984, became the first black supervisor and Deputy Superintendent of the Educational Services Region of Cook County. This achievement demonstrates the continued gains blacks are making in education.

Brother Ivan Louis Cotman Brother IVAN LOUS COTMAN, A s s o c i a t e S u p e r i n t e n d e n t for Rehabilitation and Disability Determination, was selected to participate in the 1984-85 State Education Agency Executive Policy Fellowship Program. Dr. Cotman has served with the Michigan Department of Education since 1973. He is a former elected member of the Detroit Board of Education and served as vice chairman of the Region 3 Board from 1970 to 1973. He is responsible for the largest bureau in the Michigan Department of Education, composed of Michigan Rehabilitation Services and the Disability Determination Service, representing a staff of approximately 1,300 in 40 offices throughout Michigan. The State Education Agency Executive Policy and Fellowship Program, The Sphinx/Spring 1985

Illlllllllllll Brother WALLACE JACKSON was named Sports Information Director at Alabama A & M University, Normal. The Atlanta native entered the University of Georgia in 1973 and received an ABJ Degree from the nationally ranked Henry W. Grady School of Journalism and Mass Communications. He has served as the of-

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Brother Wallace Jackson tion Director of Albany (Georgia) State College, brings a wealth of talent and experience to the Alabama A&M University program. During his tenure at Albany State, one of his biggest accomplishments was getting three women basketball players at Albany State selected to the National Association For Women Sports All America Team in 1983. For an encore, his hardworking promotional efforts led to three more selections in 1984. In both years, Albany State led the nation in number of players being selected by the poll. More recently, at the conclusion of his stint at Albany State, six football players from the Rams' SIAC championship team were named to the all conference squad as first team members. 29

Brother Eddie Jones, II ttUHIItlltll

Brother EDDIE JONES, II, President of Iota Delta Lambda Chapter in Chicago, was one of ten managers h o n o r e d at the Administrative Managers Meeting of the IBM Corporation, held in Dallas, Texas, September 23-25, 1984. IBM. headquartered in Armonk, New York, brought together more than 1000 managers world-wide for the first ever such meetingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;to give input and to receive information from top executives regarding the company. The meeting ended with the selection of IBM's Top Ten managers, saluted for excellence. Brother Jones was the only Black manager cited for this award, which included a $2500 cash prize. Illlllllllllll Brother STEVE LOWE (Gamma Iota Chapter, Hampton Institute), a junior Business Management major from Shaker Heights, Ohio, will be at the helm this upcoming pledge period. Brother Lowe, one of the eighteen new initiates to cross into Alphadom this past Spring of '84 will be taking on the leadership role of Dean of Pledges. "I feel very positive about the position," said Lowe. "I hope to lead these potential Alphamen into an experience which will hopefully help them to learn to use their resources and strengthen their weaknesses." 30

Being a neophyte as Dean of Pledges comes under a great deal of pressure and time, according to Brother Lowe. During this year's pledge period Brother Lowe hopes to institute a host of programs for the pledgees on line. Those including a leadership lab, Public Speaking classes, Seminars on Etiquette, Time Management, Greek Awareness sessions as well as projects in conjunction with other pledge lines. Two changes which Brother Lowe hopes to incorporate in this year's pledge process is the "seriousness of everything" that's trying to be impressed upon the potential Alpha men. Brothers than come in and distract the pledgees from the whole purpose of the class is unnecessary. "Those Brothers who come in and add to the discussion, I feel would make a much better impression upon the pledgees I think," said Lowe. Lowe also hopes to include a "spesh night" program which would allow the Brothers to get to know the pledgees and their numbers on line.

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Brother RAY LUNDY of Theta Delta Lambda was recently the recipient of the NAACP Community Service Award for 1984. The award was presented at the Annual Awards Banquet held at the El Paso Rodeway Inn on November 30. The Keynote Speaker was The Honorable Myra McDaniel, Secretary of State for the State of Texas. Col. Lundy has a long and distinguished record of zealous support of many El Paso organizations including the NAACP, the El Paso Black Caucus, the Sun City Lion's Club and the United Negro College Fund. He is a proud alumnus of Morehouse College and Meharry Medical College. He is presently Chief of the Hematology-Oncology service at William Beaumont Army Medical Center in ElPaso, Texas. The Brothers of Theta Delta Lambda and the citizens of El Paso salute Dr. Lundy!

mimittuti Brother LORENZO MANNS, Administrator for the C o l u m b u s , Georgia Juvenile Court, was elected

President of the Muscogee County Board of Education on January 21, 1985. Brother Manns, who served as First Vice President of the board prior to this election, is also the first Black to serve in this position. A member of Delta Iota Lambda Chapter in Columbus, Brother Manns served many years, with distinction, as the Fraternity's State Director for Georgia.

â&#x20AC;˘Illlllllllllll On the 6th of November, 1984, Brother HERBERT MYERS, in a county-wide election, was elected to Port Everglades Commission, District 1. Brother Myers was successful in defeating the incumbent Commissioner, who had defeated him in a prior election to the same office. Port Everglades, located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is one of the largest ports located not only in Florida but also in the United States. Brother Myers was born in Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, Florida on April 8, 1932. He is married, and he is the father of five children and grandfather of four. Brother Myers is a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha. In addition, he has been a classroom teacher with the Broward Public School System for twenty-five years.

Illlllllllllll Brother BOBBY R. PHILLS, a life member of Alpha Nu Lambda Chapter of Tuskegee Institute, Alabama, recently returned from a five week business trip to three African countries. Brother Phills, who is the director of the George Washington Carver Agricultural Experiment Station at Tuskegee Institute, visited Kenya, Rwanda, and Somalia as head of an agriculture team whose purpose was to design agriculture programs for refugee self-reliance in Northwest Somalia. The trip was financed by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and contracted to the New Transcentury Foundation, a private volunteer organization that has developed agricultural projects t h r o u g h o u t Africa. Tuskegee Institute had a subcontract with Transcentury to develop The Sphinx/Spring 1985

Brother Bobby Phills the agriculture component of the refugee project. The major aspect of the trip was to develop ways of assisting refugees that had fled the drought and wartorn country of Ethiopia into Somalia. While in Somalia, Brother Phills developed' several small farm programs which in time will allow the refugees to become agriculturally selfsufficient and thus be able to more effectively merge into the Somalian society. Farming is the chief occupation of the refugees who are presently forced to live in camps having populations as high as 40,000 people. Since desirable arable land and a good water source are severely limiting, agriculture productivity must be at its maximum. Brother Phills, a plant breeder and horticulturist by trade, was able to make recommendations on the best types of crops for growth under drought conditions. Sweet potato, a crop known for its drought tolerance, was high on the list of suitable crops, especially since it is readily consumed by humans and animals. Brother Phills holds a B.S. degree from Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana in Horticulture; an M.S. and Ph.D. degree from Louisiana State University in Plant Breeding and a post-doctorate from Cornell University in Plant Breeding and Genetics. The Sphinx/Spring 1985

In 1979 and 1980, Brother Phills was selected as the most outstanding faculty member in the School of Agriculture and Home Economics. Brother Phills is one of the top ranking Blacks in the American Society for Horticulture Science. He currently serves as chairman of the L. M. Ware Outstanding Teacher Award Committee and the Education Committee. This marks the first time in the 80-year history of the organization that a Black has served as chairman of these committees. Brother Phills is the Educational Director of the chapter and has directed the essay contest in the country schools as well as sponsored Career Awareness Education Projects. The Education Committee will award scholarships to two high school seniors in May 1985. Five years ago he organized the Alpha Phi Alpha Community Mixed Doubles Bowling League which is still going strong. Despite Brother Phills' active professional career, he still finds time to devote to family life. He is happily married to Mary L. Phills and they have two "all-American" boys, Bobby R. II, and Dwayne Armand.

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Brother CHARLES PRICE was elected to a six-year term as Montgomery C o u n t y Circuit Judge, without opposition. Judge Price graduated from Carver High School in Montgomery in 1959 and upon graduation served in the United States Army for six y e a r s three years with the Green Beret Special Forces and three years with the 82nd Airborne Division. Judge Price remains in the United States Army Reserve where he presently holds the rank of Major. After graduation from Virginia State University in 1969, Judge Price enrolled at George Washington University Law School, where he graduated with honors in 1972. After a stint interning for the Department of Justice in Washington, D.C., he served as an Assistant Attorney General for the State of Alabama from 1973 to 1975. He served as Acting District Attorney of Excambia County, Alabama, from 1974 to 1975, and Deputy District Attorney, Montgomery County from 1975 to 1978. During his practice of law in Mont-

Brother Charles Price gomery from 1978 to 1983, Judge Price was appointed an Assistant Municipal Judge in the City of Montgomery in 1979. He was elected the President of Montgomery County Trial Lawyers Association in 1982 and on April 4, 1983 was appointed Montgomery County Circuit Judge by Governor George Wallace. Judge Price is married to Bernice P. Price, who is an Assistant Professor of Humanities at Alabama State University, and has a daughter, Susan, who is a senior at Princeton and son, Charles Price, II, who is in the second grade. Judge Price is a member of Mt. Pleasant AME Zion Church, in Hunter Station. He is affiliated with numerous professional organizations including the National Bar Association in which he is a member of the National Judicial Selection Committee.

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"Herr Smith's voice has made him a citizen of the world. "â&#x20AC;&#x201D;German critic; "When you hear jimmy Smith sing, you are hearing our heritage."â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Lagos, Nigeria. Those are but a few of the many compliments bestowed upon Brother JIMMY SMITH. Dr. Smith, a native of Lexington, Kentucky, is one of the world's most eloquent baritone con31

Revival. He became the first Black music director in the history of the school.

Brother Jimmy Smith cert singers. He began his prestigious career at Fisk University, where he was a member of the world-famous Fisk Jubilee Singers. He sang in the Holy Land as the guest of a personal and family counseling center. In Toronto, Canada, he received a standing ovation at the historical First Baptist Church of Toronto, established in the 1820s by escaped slaves. In 1975 and 1978 he sang for the Baptist World Alliance in Stockholm, Sweden and Indianapolis, Indiana, respectively, for their annual World Conference. Further, he sang in the Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris, France, the Vatican in Rome, Hong Kong and Mexico City. In the United States, he sang at the NAACP Convention when then-Vice President Mondale stated, "Jimmy Smith is a great singer. I really enjoyed hearing him at the NAACP Convention." He may be the most famous for his rendition of the National Anthem, which he has performed for such notables as Ted Kennedy, Art Linkletter, and members of Congress. Dr. Smith received standing ovations in Canada for his rendition of their National Anthem. The Religious Activites Committee of Gardner-Webb College, Boiling Spring, North Carolina, chose him as their music director for their 1982 Fall 32

Illlllllllllll Brother GLENN P. THOMAS, II, a member of Gamma Iota Chapter, Hampton Institute, serves as Assistant Vice President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity from the Eastern Region. Brother Thomas, a junior political science major from Richmond, Virginia, now holds the position of the second highest ranking brother in the Eastern Region. According to Brother Thomas, the position requires a lot of work. "It's a position that's very powerful if used right. It's a challenge and I enjoy being able to get involved in the fraternity on the national level," said Thomas. This year, Brother Thomas has focused his position on bridging the gap between graduate and undergraduate brothers. Brother Thomas has outlined his office with a three point planâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the first being "Project Alpha," a national program which would work in conjunction with the March of Dimes to administer literature to black youths on the facts of life. The second plan is a Leadership Program which would focus on blacks being trained in the art of parliamentary procedures, not just in athletic roles, but developing in other areas. Thomas hopes to expose these programs on the campus as well as the community, in hopes of achieving a "better camaraderie." The third and final plan Thomas hopes to implement is a "Think Tank," which would basically be a gathering of his advisors who would

assist him in his office as AVP. Thomas was elected Assistant Vice President on April 14, 1984 at the 52nd Eastern Regional Convention held in Norfolk, Virginia. He was nominated by Thomas G. Allston, who also held the position of Assistant Vice President. "I was nominated not wholly on my experience as an Alpha, but my skills as a leader," said Thomas. "I've gotten to meet a lot of Brothers who've told me what the brotherhood is all about. It's all about those things and more, such as exemplifying the best in manhood. . .making Alpha a business," said Thomas. Thomas hopes to expose chapters who pledge by brutal means, and to incorporate learning the Constitution and being on ""one accord."

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Brother DARRYL THORNTON, a senior from Marlin, Texas, is the second Black police officer to be hired in the history of the North Texas State University police department. Brother Thornton, a member of Eta Epsilon Chapter, serves as Assistant Vice President from Alpha's Southwest Region. Brother Thornton previously served as a NT public service officer, but he notes the difference between the positions. "My job as a public service officer was to assist visitors and NT officers on campus. I could write parking tickets, but that was the end of my jurisdiction," he said. "An NT officer goes through the same training and must have the same qualifications as any other law enforcement official. Our powers are the same." Brother Thornton also believes that his position will allow him to help other Blacks at NTSU.

The Sphinx/Spring 1985

EAST new york

Paul Sargeant, President and Secretary, respectively, have discussed plans for organizing a pledge club. The chapter has made its annual contribution to the United Negro College Fund.

Syracuse Brothers travel to Buffalo Iota Kappa Lambda Chapter of Syracuse, New York, sponsored a bus trip to Buffalo, New York on the 18th of November to witness a football game between the Buffalo Bills and the Dallas Cowboys. The group of 47 persons, under the leadership of Brother Melvin Askew, was well awarded for the trip for they saw the Bills pull a surprise upset over the Cowboys by a score of 14-3, the Bills first victory of the season. Tne group was also a part of the 79,457 fans who, in 36 degree weather, saw rookie Greg Bell spring for an 85-yard touchdown run just 21 seconds after the game started. This was the longest run against the Cowboys in their history. Bell went on to gain 206 yards in 27 carries, the fifth highest total for a rookie in NFL history. After the game, the group dined on a delicious smorgasbord dinner in the T-House of the Trenholm East Inn. Brothers Charles Timberlake and

Virginia Teamer visits Hampton General President Charles C. Teamer recently paid a visit to the campus of Hampton University to address a group of college men attending the Gamma Iota Chapter Get Acquainted Smoker. Before visiting t h e c a m p u s , however, Brother Teamer was the guest of Delta Beta Lambda Chapter, Hampton, which hosted a luncheon in his honor. Brother Teamer spoke to the Chapter members about his plans for the fraternity after assuming the fraternity's leadership in January. He encouraged Chapter members to make their views known by participating fully in the work of their local Chapter and by attending state, regional and national conventions.

At Hampton, (L to R)â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Brother Glenn Thomas, Eastern Region Vice President; Brother Charles C. Teamer, Sr., General President; Brother Remus C. Rhodes, 111, President, Delta Beta Lambda Chapter; and Brother Edward N. Jones, Regional Director, Tidewater South, Virginia.

rhode island Providence Alphas help at tax time Greetings to all our Brothers in Alpha. We know it has been quite a while since we appeared in the Sphinx .. .but we, the Brothers of Mu Theta Lambda Chapter of Providence, Rhode Island, are still upholding the high aims of A-Phi-A. 1985 will be an active year for us. We have just completed a successful fundraising social affair, as well as a substantial donation to the United Way's Food Basket Drive for the needy. Later this month, we will be conducting our annual volunteer income tax assistance program. We remain committed, as all Alpha Chapters do, to serving the community. So again, greetings and remember, "Be thy brother's keeper."

Virginia state u Beta Gamma places four in Who's Who Greetings to all the brothers from the High Court of Beta Gamma Chapter. Beta Gamma Chapter has, as every other year, a calendar full of events for the 1984-85 academic year. From the community perspective, our frequent visits to the Petersburg Convalescent Home have brought many smiles and tears of happiness to both the residents and the brothers as well. The staff at the home looks forward to our periodic visits, as do the occupants. This is one way that the chapter says "old but not forgotten by Beta G a m m a . " On the educational front, we continue to render our services to area high schoolers in all subjects. Additionally, with our alumni chapter, Nu Lambda, we have worked diligently on our own "Go to High School, Go to College" program. With the help of Brother Edward Smith, Admissions director, recruiting efforts have become successful. Beta Gamma has made contributions to both the United Negro Col34

A Beta Gamma step performance on the campus of Virginia State University.

lege Fund and the NAACP. This past year we have become life members of the NAACP. Chapter officers for the 1984-85 school year are: Bryant E. Murphy, President; Robert Dash, Jr., Vice President; Charles L. Spain, Jr., Recording Secretary; Stanley R. Wright, Treasurer; Ricky A. Johnson, Corresponding Secretary; Carl R. Weber, Jr., Financial Secretary; Stephone F. Coleman, Sergeant-at-Arms; Anthony Britton, Historian; and James L. Childress, Chaplain. Yearly, the honor of Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges is bestowed upon students exhibiting outstanding merit and accomplishments. For the past year, we have had four brothers to be selected. They are, Brothers: Robin Alexander Clifton, Stephone Frederick Coleman, Rickie Vernell Garland, and Charles Langley Spain, Jr. Also during this past year, Beta Gamma Chapter was named the 1983-84 State Chapter of the Year and Eastern Regional Chapter of the Year. Warning, brothers: A maximum effort to retain these titles will be put forth again. Lastly, Beta Gamma Chapter announces its preparation for a Beta Gamma Reunion to be held during the month of May, 1985. For all brothers who were initiated at Beta Gamma, we ask that you participate in the reunion. Thus far, we have received positive feedback from well over two hundred Beta Gamma initiates. If you are interested, contact:

Brother Ricky A. Johnson, 441 Roundtop Ave., Apt. 5, Petersburg, Virginia 23803, (804) 733-7740, or Brother Charles L. Spain, P.O. Box 141, Virginia State University, Petersburg, Virginia 23803, (804) 526-9790.

massachusetts Seven Jewels honored in Boston Epsilon Gamma Lambda, Nu Xi Lambda, and Sigma Chapters of Eastern Massachusetts held their annual Founder's Day Program and Dinner in the Museum of the National Center for Afro-American Artists. In an effort to support the institution within the Black community of Boston, the brotherhood decided to hold their December 9, 1984 affair in the Roxbury-based cultural center. Brother Perry Smith, Vice President of Epsilon Gamma Lambda Chapter, offered a word of prayer. Brother John H. McMullen, Jr., President of Epsilon Gamma Lambda Chapter, welcomed the fifty brothers and their guests to the event. After the brothers and their guests dined on the delicious food which was catered by Elegant Caterers, Inc., a black Boston company, and imbibed beverages, they listened to a very provocative speech by Brother Melvin Miller, Esquire. Brother Miller is a local attorney and The Sphinx/Spring 1985

the editor and publisher of the Bay State Banner. T h e Bay State Banner is

Boston's only Black newspaper. Brother Miller was presented a plaque from Epsilon Gamma Lambda Chapter. The plaque was awarded in recognition of his scholarship, manly deeds, and love for all mankind. Brother McMullen awarded our "Man of the Year" plaque to Brother Perry Smith. Brother Smith has provided faithful service to Epsilon Gamma Lambda Chapter as well as wise counsel to the under-graduate brothers of Sigma Chapter. Remarks were provided by Brother Gregory A. Cook, President of Sigma Chapter and by Brother McMullen, President of Epsilon Gamma Lambda Chapter. After each brother introduced himself to the body, the brotherhood joined hands and lifted their voices in a rendition of the Alpha Hymn. Brother Franklin Morris, former Eastern Regional Vice President, led the brotherhood in song and prayer. The Founder's Day Program and Dinner has become an integral part of fraternal life for Eastern Massachussetts Alphas. Consequently, it has become a most rewarding and enjoyable event for all who attend.

new york Zeto Zeta Lambda supports Family Dimensions, Inc. Zeta Zeta Lambda Chapter is a Queens County, New York graduate chapter. Established in 1954, this chapter boasts a proud history of community services. The members of the chapter were motivated by the national policy and assisted the education committee, chaired by Brother Eric Headley, in developing a choir festival which has been in operation for over 9 years. It is a main source of community involvement. This project has involved various denominational young people's choirs. It enables minority students with vocal talent public exposure, which is a valuable experience. The education committee that conducts and complements the choir festival has been given an added area of responsibility this year. It is entitled "Family Dimensions, Inc." It is an efThe Sphinx/Spring 1985

Brother Wesley A. Parrott, president of Zeta Zeta Lambda Chapter receiving the IBM Corporation check from Brother Amos M. Gailliard, ]r., to benefit the chapter's involvement in Family Dimensions, Inc.

fort to unify the community on the move to save its children. It involves the combined efforts of the church, fraternal orders, headstart centers, civic associations, day care centers, parent-teachers associations and ministerial alliance. It has grown out of outreach efforts on the part of community-minded people who are committed to establishing a viable community alternative to the unncessary foster care placement of black children in the child welfare system. The child welfare system has not served the best interests of black children. The incorporators of Family Dimensions feel that children and families can best be helped in their own homes, within the perimeters of their own communities. Family Dimensions, Inc. was formed for the purpose of generating relevant parental educational programs, adoption of homeless black children and the development of support groups in our churches, school programs and all other places where parents and children meet. Zeta Zeta Lambda Chapter is a fraternal order that is assisting in the implementation of this program. Although they have been quite suc-

cessful in getting young people and adults to participate yearly in their choir festival, they have taken on the additional burden of the Family Dimensions, Inc. Brother Herbert Baldwin, Vice President of Zeta Zeta Lambda Chapter, a member of the Board of Directors and also the presiding chairman of Family Dimensions, Inc., is ably assisted by Brother Amos M. Gailliard, Jr., acting as the consultant for the IBM Corporation of Tarrytown, New York. Brother Gailliard has been instrumental in obtaining a grant in the amount of $1,850 from IBM Corporation, (December 1984) to the Family Dimensions, Inc. The grant was requested to assist in utilizing professionals and semi-professionals in conducted seminars in over 25 sites in Queens. These seminars will be conducting seminars in over 25 sites in as: Theatrice Gentry, Ph.D.; Samuel Brown, MSW; Crosby Inman, MSW; Martha Oliver, MSW; and others as approved by the Board of Directors. Brother Gailliard is the present chairman of the social activities committee and the past president of Zeta Zeta Lambda Chapter. Funds from the annual dinner dance, promoted 35

by the social activities committee, November, 1984; choir festival, promoted by the education committee, April, 1984; and chapter dues are used to assist this program implementation along with other chapter and fraternal goals. These funds are administered by the education committee.

howard university Beta wins 7th straight Greek show

Greetings to all of Alphadom from the Brothers of Beta Chapter. We're sure you'll be glad to hear that 77 years after its installation, Beta continues to hold the shining light of Alpha high. The academic school year 1984-85 exemplifies this fact. The year got off to a strong start as the Brothers of Beta called for a meeting of all Greek-letter organizations on Howard's campus, in an attempt to improve the quality of relationships. The meeting was relatively successful, and proved once again, that we are some of the most progressive Greeks on campus. Later that month, we held a paraphernalia display in the student center, striving to make more students aware of what the fraternity is about and what we try to do. Dr. Russell Adams, chairman of the D e p a r t m e n t of A f r o - A m e r i c a n Studies, was the guest speaker at a forum we sponsored on "The Political Impact of Jesse Jackson's Presidential Candidacy. " This affair was well attended and very enlightening. Beta upheld its commitment to community service, as we participated in "Adopt-a-Block," a neighborhood clean-up program. The end of September featured our biannual "Send One Your Love" activities (also held during the week of Valentine's Day), in which students are able to have carnations delivered to someone special, along with a personal message. This undertaking is always well received by the student body. In October, the traditional Homecoming month, the work of Alpha was very prominent. Brother Evans Crawford, Dean of Howard's School of Divinity, addressed students on 36

'â&#x20AC;˘The Role of the Black Church in America," another in a series of forums, lectures, and seminars that we put on for the betterment of the student population, as well as ourselves. The Homecomeing Greek Show once more, was a testimony to the fact "can't nobody step like an Alpham a n . " For the seventh consecutive year, the Brothers of Beta Chapter were crowned the champions. The very next day though, displaying our diversity, we showed two films in the student center as a cultural addition to Homecoming. We capped off the week with "Distinction Stands Alone," this year's theme for our annual cabaret. Our final endeavor for the month of October was our annual Halloween party for local elementary school children. On election day, we proudly participated in service at the polls, helping and assisting wherever we could. In our constant efforts to be "servants to all," we collected more canned goods and non-perishable foods than any other student organization for "Project Harvest," a food drive for needy people that takes place every year around Thanksgiving. In honor of this great fraternity's 78th birthday, we held a candlelight vigil on December 4, with many brothers in attendance from surrounding chapters. The late, great, Brother Martin Luther King, Jr. was held in fond remembrance on his birthday. "A Tribute to Dr. King" was the first project we engaged in for the spring semester. Two films on King's life were shown, in addition to having several brothers give their feelings on one of our greatest brothers ever. And finally, at the end of January we participated in a program entitled "Four Shades of Alpha" with our sisters of AKA, Lambda Zeta Chapter, held on their campus at American University. This program was held to inform the small Black student body there on the works of the two organizations. In addition to all of the above, projects that we do throughout the year include a tutorial program at a neighborhood elementary school, "Small Fry" outings for more elementary school children; and lately we've been participating in the marches at the South African Embassy, protesting the policies of apartheid. On the drawing board for the remainder

of this semester is a dormitory lecture series, a career day for school children, and a university-wide film series. And we are also proudly preparing to host the Youth Leadership Institute conference, in which we played an integral role last summer. Finally, amidst feelings of joy and sorrow, Beta Chapter will lose 13 brothers this spring to graduation. However, the remaining brothers will continue to serve the Howard University/Washington, D.C. communities with an intensity and brightness that can only be reflective of an Alphaman, for the light of Beta will always shine brightly.

metro boston Reflecting on 1984

The men of Sigma Chapter extend fraternal greetings to all of our distinguished Brothers in Alpha. Sigma, the metropolitan chapter in the Boston area, includes Brothers from M.I.T., Boston University, Northeastern University, the University of Massachussetts, and Brandeis University. It has been a while sence we have reported to The Sphinx, and we wish to update the Brotherhood on our activities during the last year. On January 20, 1984, Sigma Chapter presented a public tribute to our late Brother Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Boston University's Marsh Chapel. The keynote speaker, Brother Dr. Allen Counter, president of the Harvard Foundation, addressed his audience on the theme, "The Dream Still Lives." Musical entertainment was provided by the New Covenant Singers, a local gospel group. Other projects initiated during the year included some fundraising toward the United Way, tutoring children at the local Jefferson Park Writing Center, and the supply of manpower in aid of Brother Mel King's mayoral effort. In mid-October, the Brothers researched and distributed copies of Presidential campaign platforms in an effort to spur voter awareness. Sigma Chapter also sponsored a happy hour at Brother John Bynoe's Professional and Businessmen's Club in an effort to reclaim graduate Brothers (in particular, those The Sphinx/Spring 1985

young men attending graduate school in the area). On April 20, 1984, three young men completed an arduous march onwards and upwards towards the light. These gentlemen, now proud Brothers of our Fraternity, are Antone Raneo-Wilson, Kirk Allen Wornum, and Gregory Tyler Wright. The unique qualifications of these gentlemen are benefitting the whole of the chapter. Two of our Brothers in particular are in the forefront of advancing the Fraternity's work. Brother Jeffrey Anthony, a senior in biology at Boston University, is president of that school's Inter-Fraternity Council, and has worked tirelessly towards the cause of uniting black and white fraternal organizations towards a singular cause. Brother Gregory Cook, a junior in mathematics/electrical engineering at M.I.T., is treasurer and acting president of that school's Association of Student Activities. Brother Cook is presently negotiating the inclusion of Sigma Chapter in M.I.T.'s Inter-Fraternity Council; an inclusion which has never been granted to any group not in ownership of a house. The Brotherhood has also found

time to host four social events over the last year. The most popular and recent of these was the annual "Seven Cents Jam," held on November 30 in honor of our Seven Jewels and Founder's Day. The party was highlighted by a precise and engaging step show, performed in a manner befitting Alpha men. The Brotherhood was also in attendance for the December 9th Founder's Day Program sponsored by Epsilon Gamma Lambda and Nu Xi Lambda Chapters. Officers for the year include: Greg Cook, President; Willard Stanback, Vice President/Dean of Pledges; Greg Wright, Treasurer; Antone RaneoWilson, Recording Secretary; Kirk Wornum, Corresponding Secretary;, Jeff Anthony, Educational Director; Nate Whitmal, Parliamentarian/Historian/Editorto-the-Sphinx; B. Keith Thomas, Chaplain; and Maurice Joseph, Sergeantat-arms. Sigma Chapter is sponsoring a reunion of Sigma alumni in conjunction with the 1986 Regional Convention to be held here in Boston. Please write us for more information. The Brothers of Sigma Chapter wish all Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha and their families a safe and prosperous New Year.

FINE DINING AN ATLANTA TRADITION 79th Anniversary Convention Alpha Phi Alpha Franternity, Inc. August 9-15, 1985 The Atlanta Hilton

new york A successful year for Endicott/Binghamton

Greetings to all Brothers in Alpha Land. The Brothers of Iota Theta Lambda Chapter in Endicott, New York had an active and successful year in 1984. Our year began with a Sweetheart's Dance that was held to benefit our Annual Scholarship Fund. A lot of hard work by the Brothers made the fund-raiser a huge success. Brothers Herb Watkins and Lloyd Lewis co-chaired our first Mother's Day Program at Trinity AME Zion Church. Brothers Watkins and Lewis spoke on the importance of giving thanks to our Mothers for the Greatest Gift, "The Gift of Life," and of our Mothers' historical role in the Black Family S t r u c t u r e . O t h e r Brothers participated in the program by singing in the choir. The chapter presented the church with a donation of $145.00 and provided red and white carnations for the Mothers attending the program. On July 23, the Brothers hosted the 15th Annual Iota Theta Lambda Community Picnic. The picnic is free to everyone in the community and many Brothers and Sisters in the area take advantage of this occasion to meet new residents and renew old acquaintances and catch up on the "happenings." The Alpha Picnic has been widely acclaimed for being one of the few events in the community where any and all groups come together for a full day of eating and recreation. Brother Eugene Sharpe, III did his usual outstanding job of chairing the Planning Committee. On November 17, 1984, Brother Sharpe, Central New York State Director, and Brother Maynard Ferguson, Area II Coordinator, hosted the Central New York State District Meeting. The decision to call the meeting came as a result of concern for better communications of the Fraternity's goals and policies to the chapters in Central New York and to discuss other relevant topice in open forum. Topics covered included: The Model Pledge Program, Undergraduate Academics, and Paperwork Submission to National Headquarters. Brothers in attendance were from as far away as New York City (Zeta Zeta X7

Lambda), Alpha Chapter, Pi Beta and Iota Theta Lambda. Also in attendance was Brother Clifford Clemmons, New York State President, who re-emphasized comments made by others regarding The Model Pledge Program. Brother Clemmons also discussed preliminary plans for the New York State Convention to be held in October. Our Founder's Day Program was held on December 1, 1984 in conjunction with Pi Beta Chapter (SUNY, Binghamton). Our keynote speaker was Brother W. Decker Clarke. Brother Clarke's speech on the theme of "The Struggle Continues" was electrifying and informative in that he challenged the audience and the Brotherhood to become more active politically and strive harder to cause positive changes in the Black Community. Many of the Brothers will remember Brother Clarke from his many years of participation in Alpha affairs and most recently as Chairman of the Alpha Jobs Fair at the last General Convention held in Cleveland, Ohio. During the program, Brother Andre Woody announced that Melissa Powell of Binghamton was the winner of our 1984-85 Scholarship Award. The scholarship is awarded annually to a local high school graduate in the amount of $750.00. Melissa is currently matriculating at Elizabethtown College in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania where she is a Communications major. Brother Anthony Kendall (Pi Beta) delivered an outstanding special tribute to Jewel Brother Henry Arthur Callis. This was particularly significant since Brother Callis spent several years of his young adulthood in this area and was a graduate of Central High Shcool in Binghamton. Brother John Coleman received the Outstanding Chapter Brother of the Year Award. Additionally, Brother Coleman also received a special award from the Brothers of Pi Beta Chapter for his untiring efforts during the past several years to from that chapter. We also welcomed Anthony Parker as a new Brother in the chapter. The program was carried out under the leadership of Brothers Robert Hunter (Iota Theta Lambda) and Owen Brown (Pi Beta). On February 10, 1985, Brother Herbert Watkins received the Outstanding Achievement Award for Academic and Business Excellence from Delta Sigma Theta Sorority (Apalachin Alumnae Chapter.) 18

u of Pennsylvania Psi continues the spirit of Alpha Greetings, Brothers of Alpha. We, the brothers of Psi, sincerely hope that each of you are in the best of health and spirit. We have been very busy this semester carrying out the aims and ideals of our great fraternity. On October 21, we presented a gospel concert at Bright Hope Baptist Church, where our own Brother (Congressman) William Gray serves as pastor. Guest choirs from colleges and universities throughout the city participated. Brother Hughe Maghee III organized and planned this unforgettable program. Among our guests was the honorable Brother Dr. William Ross, Jr., Eastern Regional Vice President. On December 9, we held our annual Founder's Day Smoker. Brother Waverly Easley, President and Chief Editor of the Philadelphia Tribune, the oldest Black newspaper in the country, was our speaker. We presented Brother Easley with a plaque in recognition of his service to the city of Philadelphia and to our fraternity. Moreover, the brothers of Psi are extremely proud of an award we received recently. Of the 28 fraternities and 9 sororities on Penn's campus, Psi received the school's highest award for community service. In January, the brothers of Psi sponsored a panel discussion on "The Principles of a Non-Violent Protest." This forum was done in commemoration of Brother Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In February, Brother Andrew Young was the keynote speaker at our black history month public program. This was a citywide event sponsored by Psi. Psi is moving with a powerful thrust under the strong and effective leadership of our President, Gregory Williams; Vice President, Admad Pelzer; Treasurer, Terrell Chambers; Dean of Pledges, Paul Jones; Parliamentarian, W. Wilson Goode, Jr.; Chaplain, Darnell Shephard. We are leaving an Alpha spell on the "City of Brotherly Love," as we continue in the true spirit of Alpha.

ATLANTA 79th ANNIVERSARY CONVENTION AUGUST 9-15,1985 THE ATLANTA HILTON

hampton university Gamma Iota tops in scholarship The Brothers of Gamma Iota Chapter, Hampton, University, are involved in a variety of campus, as well as community, service projects. The Brothers kicked off the year with their annual "Jump-Rope-Athon" in conjunction with the American Red Cross. Over 100 people participated in this fun-loving project. The program was headed by Brother Todd Roundtree. On October 3, 1984, the brothers, in conjunction with their sorority sisters Alpha Kappa Alpha, held a health seminar in which various speakers were asked to speak to college students on such health topics as lung cancer, heart attack, planned parenthood and many others. Brochures were also distributed. Each Saturday the brothers are also active in a tutorial program for grade school students who are having trouble in their studies. The chapter recently presented a $500 scholarship to Hampton University and President William R. Harvey, awarded by the Virginia Alpha State Association to the college in honor of Gamma Iota's academic leadership in the state. Gamma Iota Chapter, the largest Alpha undergraduate chapter in the nation with 42 financial members, received for Hampton the Annual VACAPAF Scholarship Award by The Sphinx/Spring 1985

possessing both the highest cumulative grade point average among its members (2.934) as well as having the highest academician (3.49). On November 11, 1984, the Brothers were honored with the presence of General President-Elect Brother Charles C. Teamer, Sr. Brother Teamer spoke to the brothers on the topic of leadership into Alpha. This year's chapter is headed by the following officers: President - Benjamin J. Carson, III; Vice President -Wayne A. Neal; Recording Secretary -Joseph Gobern; Corresponding Secretary - John R. Gaines; Treasurer - Randall B. Pollard; Dean of Pledges -Stephen S. Lowe; Assistant Dean of Pledges - Kevin Cummings; Parliamentarian - Paul C. Harris; Sergeant-atArms - Ivan M. Allston; Historian -Glenn P. Thomas, II; Education Coordinator - Thomas J. Kirby, Jr.; Editor-tothe-Sphinx - Jeff Little; Court Coordinator - Andre U. Sapp; Chaplain - Anthony A. Rynum; and Graduate Advisor - Thomas C. Allston, III.

The program also included a brief history of the College and Graduate Chapters. These brief histories were given by Brothers Arthur L. Roach and Eric Jackson. There were awards given to Brothers Arthur L. Roach, Lancelot Thompson, and others. The coordinator for the program was Brother Rob Stubblefield and the President of Alpha Xi Lambda Chapter, Brother Jimmy Gaines. The Chapter continues its efforts to serve the Toledo Community with the Alpha Tower Complex, promoting educational excellence in our youth, staying abreast and performing with dignity to help others and never forgetting the true meaning or aims of our fraternity. Other chapter activities are: a workshop projecting awareness as related to getting scholarships for youth; Annual Scholarship Banquet for male high school graduates of Toledo; and our Formal Dance.

purdue university

MIDWEST ohio Alpha Xi Lambda talks with 50 year Brothers

The Founder's Day of Alpha Xi Lambda (Toledo, Ohio) was celebrated on Sunday, December 9, 1984 in the Faculty Lounge on the beautiful campus at the University of Toledo. The theme for this occasion was "Reminiscing With Our Fifty Year Brothers." Each brother in this classification made up the major part of the program. These brothers spoke about the past, present and the future, as related to personal experiences with Alpha. One of the speakers was the only living founder of this chapter, Brother Herbert Goodloe; and the others were Brothers Raymond Bennett and Fred Page. The total number of years representing experience in years in Alpha was 178 including all three brothers. These reflections so ably given by each brother were received and appreciated by all in attendance. The Sphinx/Spring 1985

4th Annual Ebony & Ivory Weekend

Fraternal greetings to our illustrious Brothers in Alpha. The Brotherhood of Gamma Rho Chapter has upheld the great name of Alpha with much success in the 1984-85 school year. September 6-8, 1984 marked our fourth annual Ebony & Ivory Unity Weekend. On September 6, our extravaganza began with the annual rally which featured faculty, state and local officials, and the presidents of Alpha Phi Alpha, Phi Kappa Tau, Sigma Phi Epsilon, and Acacia fraternitiesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;who spoke on the theme "Eradicating the Last Vestiges of Segregation." That evening, the men of the participating fraternities and the ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sigma Kappa, and Alpha Chi Omega sororities partook in a closed social and party to ring in the unity spirit. On September 7, the main event of the weekend, the Ebony & Ivory Step Show took place consisting of 40 members. It was our largest performance in the history of Ebony & Ivory. On September 8, the participating fraternities and sororities got together for a Block Party which was open to the entire campus and

community. There was plenty of food, fun, and dancing in the street. That evening our annual Unity Dance took place followed by an Ebony & Ivory unit breakfast which brought our weekend to a close. We would like to thank the following chapters and Brothers for their support: Nu Delta - Chicago State University; Nu Rho - I.I.T.; and Brothers Carl Butler, Dairy 1 Scott, and Jaabbar Madyun. During the month of September our annual voter's registration drive began and it was our most productive ever. Working with the mayor of West Lafayette and a state representative, we registered nearly 200 voters (that's about 25% of the black population on campus). We were commended by the mayor for our service. The month of September was also a first for the presentation of our Gamma Rho Sweetheart Court. The court consists of 30 beautiful young ladies. Our biggest service project of the year came in the month of December with the Lou Rawls Parade of Stars Telethon. Working closely with UNCF, the Brotherhood sponsored a party in Indianapolis, Indiana on December 28, 1984 to raise money for the telethon. The party was a great success even though we had to turn away about 200 people due to overcrowding. The following day, the Brothers volunteered their time to answer telephones, work as runners, and verifiers for the Telethon in Indianapolis. Also, we had a chance to make an on-air contribution in the amount of $300 to the UNCFâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;which was the largest contribution made by a black Greek undergraduate organization. The 1984-85 chapter roster of Gamma Rho Chapter is as follows: Damen Banks - sophomore in building construction technology; Larry Branch -junior in pharmacy; Darren Cherry -senior in accounting; Derrick Dandridge - sophomore in aeronautical e n g i n e e r i n g ; Michael DuValle -sophomore in engineering; Darryl Farrow - senior in industrial management engineering; Paul Flournoy -sophomore in industrial management; Ed Harris - junior in industrial management; Earl Manning - junior in building construction technology; Kevin Mott - senior in chemical engineering; Tracy Roberson - junior in electrical engineering technology; Dean Shaw - senior in electrical engineering; Alton Shields - senior in in39

dustrial management engineering; Michael Sykes - senior in electrical engineering; Kevin Terrell - senior in electrical engineering; and Mark Winborne - junior in interdisciplinary engineering. In closing, the Brothers of Gamma Rho invite all chapters to correspond with us regularly.

Illinois Xi Lambda hosts Dlack & Gold Ball Xi Lambda Chapter (Chicago, Illinois) held its Annual Black and Gold Ball on Saturday, March 2, 1985 at Chicago's Palmer House, from 7:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. Proceeds of the black tie affair went towards the Chapter's scholarship and building funds.

ball state university

Alphaland. We should not forget, Brothers, we must continue building upon the ideals and principles which our wise founders used in starting Alpha and have helped keep Alpha on the rise. We can make Alpha stronger; Brothers, with all the wise and talented men that abide within our fraternity. The doors of Theta Xi are always open and the spirit of Brotherhood lies within " 0 6 " !

missouri Spring dance in Jefferson City The brothers of Beta Zeta Lambda in Jefferson City, Missouri had their biannual spring dance in May. The dance was well attended by the brothers and their guests. A special table was reserved for the wives of Alpha men in Omega Chapter. Special honors were given to Brothers Busby, Pullam, and Pawley, III, whose combined years in Alpha represent more than 150 years.

Chicago state u Nu Delta Brothers brighten the eternal light A warm greeting goes out to all of our Brothers in Alpha from the Brothers of Nu Delta Chapter, located on the campus of Chicago State University, and chartered June 11, 1977. Nu Delta enthusiastically kicked off its 1984-85 campaign led by incumbent President, Brother Vance Bonner. Nu Delta has been off and running in the 1984-85 campaign by continuing to uphold the lofty ideals and aims of our beloved fraternity. In September, Nu Delta rendered its services by participating in the 1984 NAACP Tag Day. In October, Nu Delta sponsored the Second Annual "Greek Rap" which brought together the Greek-letter organizations on campus to discuss various projects that would have cultural and social significance at CSU and the surrounding community. Through the entire month of October, several Brothers manned the phones during the 1984 CSU Alumni

Holding Alpha's legacy high... The Brothers of Theta Xi want to let you know that we're here upholding the lofty ideals of our beloved founders. In doing so, we recognized our great fraternity's 78th year of existence by holding a Black and Old Gold Ceremony and Dance, which was truly an Alpha affair. As 1985 rolled in, a Memorial Service was held for our renowned Brother, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and " D a d d y " King. Still, "our struggle continues." Brother King once said, "We must learn to live together as Brothers, or we'll perish together as fools." And by enforcing King's beliefs, we held our annual Ebony and Ivory weekend with Alpha Tau Omega to promote unity among all upon Ball State's campus. The light continues shining as the "Alpha Family" (Alphas and AKA's) combined to celebrate their different anniversaries for crossing into /in

Beta Zeta Lambda's Biannual Spring Dance: Shown are (seated, left to right): Brothers Alan T. Busby, Arthur Pullam, T.D. Pawley, 111. Second row: T. Byant, Mclvin Rogers, Reginald Archer, S.M. Talley, George Enlow, John Taylor, Silas Christian. Back row: ]ames Washington, William Rice, Carl Smith, Owen Abrahams, T.\. Cooper, Ronald Nelson, Moses Harrison. T h p S n h i n v / S n r i n p 1985

Phon-A-Thon. Brothers Vance Bonner and Marcel Barnett led the way as we won top honors for raising funds. We are also proud of the fact that Brother Ron Lynch, the lone participant from the Track Team, took second place. Brother Lynch is an outstanding neophyte and has been a tremendous asset to our chapter. On October 27th, Nu Delta sponsored its annual Children's Halloween Party at CSU. The Brothers had their hands full as over 300 children attended the function. On November 17th, the Brothers participated in the 11th Annual Senior Citizens' Pre-Thanksgiving Day Dinner, and provided service to over 500 senior citizens from the Chicago Metropolitan Area. A few days later, Nu Delta (1984 Illinois a n d M i d w e s t S t e p p i n g Champs) performed at the Second Annual Greek Step Down and mesmerized the audience with another one of their "blazing" performances prior to the Thanksgiving holidays. In December, Nu Delta sponsored an Adopt-a-Senior-Citizen Program at which presents were donated by Brothers and fellow students. A warm feeling was generated as the tenants received their gifts and graciously thanked the Brothers for their kindness. On January 27, 1985, Nu Delta held its Formal Smoker at the prestigious DuSable Museum of Afro-American History. There were approximately 25 young men interested in joining "The World's Greatest Fraternity." The Smoker was run in a smooth fashion as Brother Darren Bolden served as the Master of Ceremonies. In attendance were Nu Delta Founders, members of the charter line, visiting brothers from Xi Lambda, Theta, and Nu Rho Chapters, the Regional Director, alumni brothers initiated through Nu Delta, and of course the active brothers of Nu Delta which includes several transfer brothers. The Smoker was highlighted by guest speaker, Brother Abraham Bolden, Sr., who received a standing ovation for his inspiring and exhilarating speech. The Brothers left an impression that will not be easily erased. Moving to chapter news, Brother Tony Johnson has initiated a Chapter Investment Club, which allows Brothers to invest in the stock and The Sphinx/Spring 1985

mutual fund market. Chapter Editor Johnson has also started a monthly newsletter, appropriately named "Alpha Bits," which keeps all Brothers initiated through Nu Delta informed about current events in the chapter. Finally, congratulations are in order to Brother David Dixon (1-14-78) who received the Airman of the Year Award from the 126th Civil Engineering Flight Air National Guard; to Brother David Holliday (1-29-83), who received his commission as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army; and to Brother Darren Bolden (5-8-82), who was selected into the 1985 Edition of Who's Who Among Students.

u of missouri - rolla Epsilon Psi celebrates 20th Anniversary Greetings, Brothers of Alpha. The Brothers of Epsilon Psi Chapter, located at the University of MissouriRolla, bid each and everyone good tidings for the new year! As always, the Brothers of E-Psi are holding Alpha high and striving for .excellence in all endeavors undertaken by the chapter.

We sponsored our first A-WalkAthon in which chapters of Missouri participated in a marchdown and all proceeds went to the United Way Campaign. The following night we again held our "Miss Epsilon Psi Pageant," with twelve lovely contestants. We used twelve young ladies because we placed their pictures on a twelve-month calendar and sold the calendars as a fund-rasier for the chapter. We made approximately $1500.00 off the sale of the calendars. The evening turned out splendidly and everyone in attendance enjoyed themselves. Epsilon Psi celebrated twenty years here at UM-R and held a Homecoming Reunion, October 26 and 27. The Alumni of the chapter celebrated this joyous occasion with the college brothers and everyone is looking forward to many more years. Rounding out the year, we celebrated with our annual Founder's Day Banquet and Ball to commemorate the Jewels, as well as the founders of our chapter. Brother Harold Willis also celebrated his first year as an Alpha man. We are also proud to announce the graduation of Brother Howard Collier in Engineering Management. We wish him much success. In closing, the Brotherhood is looking forward to a bright and prosperous new year as we march onward and upward toward the light.

ARE YOU A

50 YEAR + BROTHER? If so, we'd like to give special recognition to you at the Atlanta General Convention. The Salute to 50-Year Brothers Reception will be held on Sunday, August 11, 1985. SIGN UP NOW!! Please complete the coupon below and return it with your General Convention Registration Form to: General Office, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., 4432 South King Drive, Chicago, IL 60653. Name Date of Initiation Chapter of Initiation

Present Chapter

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SOUTH georgia Eta Iota Lambda is alive and well in Athens! The Brothers of Eta Iota Lambda of Athens, Georgia, are pleased to send the warmest fraternal greetings to our brothers in Alpha. We are proud of our numerous contributions to the fraternity and community during the past year*We appreciate the sacrifices made by our brothers, for the work of Alpha was made more bearable as a result. This year's Eta Iota Lambda officers are: Brothers Charles M. Coffin, Jr., President; Verner L. Kidd, Vice President; Joseph Walden, Recording Secretary; Hugh Goodrum, Corresponding Secretary; Walter V. Jackson, Financial Secretary; W. Ed Wilker, Treasurer; James E. McCoy, Chaplain; Robert E. Harrison, Editor-to-the-Sphinx; James H. Alford, Dean of Pledges; Fletcher Gideon, Parliamentarian; and John W. Townsend, Jr., Sergeant-at-Arms. A reflection on 1984 is highlighted by our successful efforts to grow from 15 to 28 members as reclamation has certainly not gone unchecked here in Athens, Georgia. We successfully

At the annual Founders Day Program of Eta lota Lambda Chapter, nine high school students were recognized along with Dr. John W. Townsend, jr., who was the 1984 Alpha Man of the Year, and Capt. Charles Coffin, jr., who is the Charles Greene Award recipient for sustained fraternal and community service. With Chapter President Coffin (c.) are high school students, who were honored, (l.-r.) Darryl Hood, Sean Hudson, Eric Rucker, Kimberly Clarke, Tonya Nelson, Bryant Keith Gantt, Dexter Haynes and S. L. Mitchell, 111.

reclaimed Brothers Asa T. Boynton, Russell H. Studevan, Ivery D. Clifton, John W. Gulbreath, John H. Douglas, Milton Hill, Peter C. Johnson, Melvin Lattany, Randall M. Merritt and James E. Sykes and we welcomed Brothers Don R. Weston and Ron Lowe as recent college graduates from Zeta Pi, University of Georgia. All of these brothers have brought the Alpha Spirit with them and they have done a super job. We are also proud of our attendance at all of the fraternity's conventions,

Brothers and wives at the Eta lota Lambda Christmas Affair, from left: Brother Asa Boyton and I velyn; Charles Coffin and Jackie; Russ Studevant and Yvonne; joe Walden and Harriett; Verner Kidd and Gwendolyn.

our significant support to the Million Dollar Fund Campaign, Save Fisk Campaign, and guidance provided to our brothers at Zeta Pi, University of Georgia. Founder's Day was celebrated December 2, 1984 at the Hill's First Baptist Church. Brother Townsend chaired this program and as usual, did a superb job. Instead of a guest speaker, our four remaining living founders, Brothers Hugh Goodrum, Milton Hill, Walter Jackson and David H. Nunnally, Sr., were asked to reflect on the events leading up to our chapter chartering in 1959. Also featured on this program was the presentation of awards to twelve distinguished high school students and the naming of Brothers Townsend and Coffin as "Man of the Year" and Charles Green Award recipient, respectively. Special recognition (and best wishes) to Brothers Goodrum and Hill who retired this year; Brother Nunnally, for his selection as Ebenezer Baptist Church's "Man of the Year"; Brother Harrison, for becoming Director of the Athens Education Opportunities Center; Brother Ed Turner, President of the local NAACP chapter; Brother Melvin Lattany, world class track star in the 100 and 200 meter events; and Brothers Russell Studevan and John Culbreath, first Black school principals of Clarke Central High and Burney-Harris Middle Schools, respectively. The Sphinx/Spring 1985

Finally, the social highlight of our year was our Christmas Party at Brother Kidd's beautiful home. Brothers, you haven't been hosted until you've been hosted by Brother Kidd and his lovely wife, Gwendolyn. Usually, a successful year such as ours requires faithful support and patience from the ladies of Alpha men. We were no exception—our Alphabettes did a super job. Special thanks to Susie Townsend, Beatrice Goodrum and Patricia Wilker. Eta Iota Lambda is working hard to hold high the light of Alpha!

florida Epsilon Pi Lambda holds Founders' Day The Epsilon Pi Lambda Chapter observed its 78th Founders' Day Anniversary on December 16, 1984 at Covenant Baptist Church—with the president, Brother Fred Smiley, presiding. The address was given by the Rev. Dr. William Simmons. Brother Simmons is pastor of Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church and is the assistant director of Student Services Institute of Black Culture at the University of Florida. His subject was: "Who Are You? You Are Somebody!" He gave a very scholarly, informative address. He was presented by Brother Reuben Williams. Other brothers appearing on the program were the Rev. Thomas Harris, Thomas George, Warren Hope, John Livingston, Riley Preston, Frank Washington, and Herbert Coleman. Mrs. Peachie Jackson played the medley of Greek Hymns. The Rev. O. Van Pinkson, pastor of Covenant, made remarks. Brothers Robin Courtney and William H. Jackson presented the awards. The following members of Covenant received certificates for dedicated services: The Rev. Esick Williams, Mesdames Belle Bennett, Grace Mays, Sarah Smith, Lucinda Hart, Deacon Elijah Sims and Benjamin Bryant. Brother Marion Lenon also received a certificate. The Psi Chi Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. presented a certificate to the Alphas. The Alphas presented a plaque to the church with all of the recipients' names on it. The Snhinx/Sorin2 1985

alabama Alpha Nu Lambda honors three on Founders' Day Alpha Nu Lambda (Tuskegee, Alabama) started the fraternal year with a well-planned reclamation meeting at the home of Chapter President Jack Bailey. Forty-six brothers attended this meeting where plans and recommendations of the executive committee were adopted for the year. This special reclamation effort influenced the return of six brothers, and several who recently moved to the communities united with Alpha Nu Lambda. The Fraternity's program highlight for the year was the Founders' Day service, chaired this year by Brother Milton Davis, Alpha Phi Alpha's General Counsel. The college brothers of Gamma Phi Chapter at Tuskegee Institute were co-sponsors of the program. In addition to that aspect of the service which recognized the founding philosophy of the Fraternity's Seven Jewels, humanitarian and public service awards went to three local citizens who have in various ways played leadership roles in making life better for mankind. The F o u n d e r s ' Day Program honorees included an engineering student at Tuskegee Institute and two

former members of the Macon County (Tuskegee) Board of Education. Brother Charlie E. Hardy, a past president of Alpha Nu Lambda, was lauded for heightening the call for accountability during his six years on the local school board. A graduate of Alabama State, where he was initiated into Alpha Phi Alpha, Hardy has received numerous awards for advocating the needs of others in community projects. Consuello J. Harper, also a former member of the Macon County school board, is director of the Montgomery, Alabama Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC) program. Long active in social, civic and political rights activities in Macon County, hundreds of citizens are better positioned in life—because of Mrs. Harper's leadership in OIC. A native of South Carolina, Rickey Scott was cited for the unusual and constructive model, the college brothers decided, he exemplifies as a college student. Despite the demands of his engineering program, Scott is a regular volunteer in programs at the local high school and the Veterans Administration program. A Navy veteran, Scott promised a career as president of an institution that "helps people remedy their deficiencies." Manly deeds, scholarship and love for all mankind are manifested in the full year's activities, but an Alpha Nu Lambda year is incomplete without the scheduled involvement of the

Founders' Day at Tuskegee (I. to r.): Brother jack Bailey, jr., President Alpha Nu Lambda Chapter; Mr. Ricky Scott; Mrs. Counsuello J. Harper; Brother Charles Hardy; Brother Rev. James Davis; and Brother Milton Davis. 41

Alphabettes—the wives and sweethearts of chapter members. Santa brought the Alphabettes gifts at the traditional Christmas Party, they were entertained in royal fashion at Victoryland Race Track for Valentine's Day, and a Spring "surprise" is under consideration; and, of course, they will co-host and form the inner circle at the Alpha Ball, that will be chaired by Brother Bob Lawson.

south Carolina Alpha Psi Lambda celebrates its Fiftieth Anniversary The Brothers of Alpha Psi Lambda (Columbia, South Carolina) are revved up and off to a fast start. They are determined not to allow the historical significance of this golden anniversary year to go unnoticed. The planning committee, under the leadership of Brother W. J. Davis, is coordinating many varied activities during the year. Kicking off the year was an article of general interest which appeared in the local paper. The focus of this article was the brothers in the chapter who have been Alpha men for over 50 years. They are Brothers E. E. Franks, Jr., T. S. Martin, Bruce Bailey and I. P. Stanback. Continuing with the celebration, the brothers and their guests enjoyed their annual Fish Fry at the frat house under a very pleasant August sky. On September 28, the brothers and their guests swayed to the music and dined high on the hog as they enjoyed the annual Golden South Seas luau. Both of these affairs were social successes because of their good attendance. On Saturday, November 24, Alpha Psi Lambda was featured on "Awaren e s s " with J. P. Neal as the host. The Alpha House was shown with many of the brothers in attendance and engaged in many of the activities that normally take place there. Three of our 50 year Brothers—Martin, Franks and Bailey—were interviewed by the host, J. P. Neal. Brother I. P. Stanback, who is also a 50 year member, was not able to participate in the program because of his health. The Golden Anniversary Observance of the chapter was continued during our annual Founder's Day 44

Breakfast on Saturday, December 1. Our Founder's Day speaker was Brother I. S. Leevy Johnson, attorney. Brother Johnson spoke briefly of the fraternity's beginning and the reasons which brought it about. He mentioned that it is important for Blacks to become involved in the political process so that they would get in strategic positions where important decisions are made. He reminded the brothers that we have an important role in helping young Blacks to become serious about their education and the future role they must prepare for themselves. The year's activities in 1984 were culminated with a public program at First Calvary Baptist Church on Sunday, December 2. Brother McKinley Washington, who is a member of the South Carolina House of representatives, was the speaker. He reminded the audience not to "forget their Egypt, that the struggle continues." He said that just as the Seven Jewels saw the need to unite at Cornell University in 1906, Black people still have the need to unite today for their best interest. On Friday, December 21, the Alphabettes sponsored their annual Christmas party at the frat house.

alabama Montgomery Alphas look back on 50 years The Brothers of Alpha Upsilon Lambda C h a p t e r , M o n t g o m e r y , Alabama, extend a warm, fraternal greeting to all of our brothers in Alphadom. We here in the "Cradle of the Confederacy" are striving to maintain and promote the aim, purpose, and goal of Alpha Phi Alpha. We closed the year with the election and installation of officers for the 1984-85 fraternal year. All officers were re-elected for a second term. Our noble and distinctive Brother Leotis Peterman, who also serves as a Southern Regional Director, declined his position as corresponding secretary because of his many demanding responsibilities. This was understood and accepted with regret by the brothers. Assuming the leadership are: President, Joseph E. Holley; Vice-President, Tyrone C. Means; Recording Secretary, Samuel L. Jackson; Corresponding

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Newly initiated members of the Alpha Upsilon Lambda Chapter (Montgomery, Alabama). Pictured from left to right are Brothers Freddie Brown, Charles Price, Wesley Ashley, Jim Moore, Melvm Ellis, Oliver Sutton and fames Sumpter.

The Sphinx/Spring 1985

Secretary, Wendell Saxon; Financial Secretary, W. H. Coston; Treasurer, Frederick D. Burks; Chaplain, James A. Nuckles; Editor-to-the-Sphinx, Willie H. Womack; and Dean of Pledges, Willie Anderson. The City of Montgomery and the local branch of the NAACP were fortunate to have its National President, Benjamin Hooks, here in honor of the NAACP's 75th Anniversary Celebration which was held at the Montgomery Civic Center on June 23 at 6 p.m. Our chapter purchased a life membership in the NAACP, having been for many years a staunch supporter of the NAACP's programs and its dedication in the field of human rights. In other community activities, Alpha Upsilon Lambda Chapter presented Fairview Medical Center with a check for $6,000. The check was presented to Fairview Medical Center Administrator, Sylvestor L. Reeder, III, by AUL President Joseph Holley. Our fraternity sponsored an Extravaganza with Erskine Hawkins and the Birmingham Heritage Band. The money will be used to purchase new wheelchairs and to renovate the main lobby of the Center. This year's scholarship winners in the high school division were George Michael Coleman, gpa 3.5, attending the University of Alabama, m a j o r Economics; Hayward Johnson, gpa 3.3, attending Auburn University, majorâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Aeronautical Engineering; Joseph Lacey, Jr., gpa 3.35, attending Georgia Institute of Technology, majorâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Electrical Engineering. All are graduates of Robert E. Lee High School, and received $500 each. Yearly, we sponsor a student to the annual Youth Leadership Conference at Benedict College in South Carolina. The student was Edward Willis, Jr., a senior at Jefferson Davis High School. Founders' Day was celebrated jointly with Beta Upsilon and Omicron Alpha Chapters on Sunday, December 2, 1984 at 5 p.m. in the George W. Trenholm Hall on the campus of Alabama State University. Our speaker was Brother U. W. Clemon, United States District Judge for the Northern District of Alabama, the first Black to ever sit as a Federal Judge in the State ot Alabama. Brother Clemon delivered a stimulating keynote speech entitled "Iluminating the Future With the Light of the Past." He began by reflecting on fifty The Sphinx/Spring 1985

Fairview Medical Center Administrator Sylvester Reed, III, accepting $6,000 check from President Joseph Holley, third from left, of Alpha Upsilon Lambda.

years of Alpha Upsilon Lambda in Montgomery, Alabama (1934-84). He reminded us that the light which has brought us safely thus far is growing dim. He challenged the men of Alpha to come forward and by the sweat of our brow rekindle the flame. He challenged us to do it because our history and tradition required us to do it; and it is the right things to do. In keeping with our Fraternity Motto "First of all; Servants of all; We shall transcend all," special recognition must be given to Brother Charles Price, who was elected Circuit Court Judge of the 15th Judicial Circuit of the State of Alabama. Recognition and congratulations are due another outstanding brother who was appointed by Governor George C. Wallace to serve as a trustee on the Board of Jacksonville State University. Brother Tyrone Means, a Montgomery attorney, was one of two Blacks appointed to serve as board members of this predominantly white universiSpecial recognition was extended to the four charter members of our chapter during our Founders' Day Celebration. They are: Brothers C. Johnson Dunn, Albert E. Fews, J. Garrick Hardy, and Rufus A Lewis. Five brothers were recipients of Certificates of Service for having served 25 years or more. These brothers were: Lytle E. Allen, III, Carl H. Cooley, Marvin Daniels, Thomas C.

Ervin, Samuel L. Jackson, William Martin, and Jethro W. Wilson. Brother Willie J. Anderson directed our pledge activities this past fraternal year and on February 28, 1984, we welcomed seven new brothers into Alphadom. These include: Freddie Brown, Charles Price, Wesley Ashley, Jim Moore, Melvin Ellis, Oliver Sutton, and James Sumpter. We know these brothers will hold high the name of Alpha Phi Alpha. On July 14, Alpha Upsilon Lambda closed out a most active social year with its annual picnic at Windcreek State Park near Alexander City, Alabama. This well attended occasion was enjoyed by all and topped off with a delectable barbeque.

alabama a G m Delta Gam ma boasts scholars The brothers of Delta Gamma extend a hearty greeting to all our brothers in Alpha. The fall semester of 1984 has been a productive one for us here at Alabama A&M University, and this report will entail some of those events in which we participated. In the area of community and educational service, the brothers conducted a tutorial program for many of the elementary and middle school 45

students in the HuntsvUle area. During this time, we established a "big brother" type of relationship with the students, and found ourselves enjoying the session as much as they. Another high point of the semester was the annual Miss Black and Gold Pageant. This year's winners were the lovely Ms. Katrina Nettles from Montgomery, who was crowned Miss Black and Gold for 1984-85 and her court: Miss Alpha Phi Alpha - Ms. Paula Gibbs; Miss Delta Gamma - Ms. Mia Colvin; and Miss Sphinx - Ms. Anjalita Traylor. Following the pageant, a reception was held in honor of the new court, and all of the lovely young ladies who participated in our illustrious event. During the following weekend, the ladies of the court participated in the Magic City Classic Parade in Birmingham. Several brothers from Delta Gamma attended the Alabama State Convention that was held on the 2nd and 3rd of November. We are proud of our brothers who were awarded certificates of scholastic achievement, thus proving that Alpha continues to hold scholarship in high esteem. Those receiving recognition for their scholarship were: Brothers Ronald Comer, with a cumulative grade point average of 3.92; Stanley Stallworth, with a 3.92 cumulative g.p.a.; and Keith Malone with a cumulative grade point average of 3.87. To climax the semester, Delta Gamma presented its annual Alpha Week. The week commenced with the 78th Annual Founder's Day Program, which was held at the St. John's A.M.E. Church; and a stirring message that was delivered by our distinguished Brother Paul B. Mohr, president of Talladega College. Though the entire week was a success, the highlight of the week was the celebration of the birthday of Alpha Phi Alpha which was held on December 4 (of course) in the university cafeteria. The entire cafeteria lent an ear as we sang the Alpha Hymn in perfect harmony. We, the men of Delta Gamma, will continue to "hold ever aloft high ideals and aims" in our untiring efforts to uphold the standards of our fraternity that we love so dearly; and c h a l l e n g e all of our b r o t h e r s throughout the land to do thus, and through us "The Light" of Alpha will always shine brilliantly. 46

The Brothers of Alpha Chi Lambda (Augusta, Georgia): Seated, left to right—Brothers Lewis Johnson, Eddie Robertson, Wymond E. Smith, Willie G. Marshall, Henry Brigham. Standing, left to right—Brothers Clarence Canada, Emory Russell, Marion D. Griffin, jr., Edgar C. Ray, Robert Calhoun, Willie farmon, Leo Jackson, Sr., John Kelly, jr., and Bert Thomas.

georgia Alpha Chi Lambda: 25 years or more

Alpha Chi Lambda Chapter of Augusta, Georgia started celebrating its 50th Anniversary (1935-1985) early—by honoring thirty brothers on Founders' Day who had 25 or more years in Alpha. Special awards were given to our Founders' Day speaker, Brother Attorney John Ruffin, affectionately known as "Mr. Civil Rights," and Brother S. J. Jenkins, often respectfully referred to as an "Elder Statesm a n , " a charter member of Alpha Chi Lambda. Other honorees were Brothers Lee Beard, Henry Brigham, Sr., Allen N. Brown, Sr., William Brown, Charles Butler, Harkness Butler, Robert Calhoun, J. B. Ellis, Herbert Evans, John Floyd, Charles W. Francis, Henri Freeman, Albert Greenlee, James Hinton, Silas Ingram, Johnnie Jackson, Harvey Johnson, Horatio V. Lamar, Willie G. Marshall, Edward M. Mclntyre, William Patterson, A. C. Redd, Lloyd Reese, Sr., Emory L. Russell, Sr., Augustus Thurmond, J. Philip Waring, John Watkins and Tracy Williams.

When we say "Brothers on the Move," we at Alpha Chi Lambda say it best with: Brother Doctor Allen N. Brown, a recipient of the Family Practice Award for outstanding continuous service to the medical profession; Brother Colonel Humphrey Peterson who assumed command of the U. S. Army Communications and Electronics Board—the first Black officer in history to become chairman of this board; Brother Bert Thomas, the new Director of Emergency School Aid Act Block Fund for the Richmond County Board of Education; Brother Attorney Harry James, III, elected President of the local branch of the NAACP; and Brother Henry Brigham, who was elected County Commissioner of Richmond County. On December 31, we held our annual Black & Gold Ball at the AugustaRichmond County Civic Center. A great affair, a big success!

ATLANTA AUGUST 9-15, 1985 The Sphinx/Spring 1985

south Carolina S.C. State Conference held in Florence The South Carolina State Conference of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity was held October 26-28, 1984 at The Heritage in Horence, South Carolina —hosted by the Delta Kappa Lambda Chapter. About 150 undergraduate and graduate brothers met and held discussions of the theme, "The Status of the Afro-American Male." The conference o p e n e d with registration from 5 to 8:15 p.m., followed by The Miss Black and Gold Pageant. Nine beautiful ladies from across the state of South Carolina competed for the title. Palmer Elizabeth Johnson of Morris College, Xi Epsilon Chapter, was named second runner-up. First runner-up honors went to Louie M. Brown of U.S.C., who was sponsored by the Theta Nu Chapter. Glenda Green of Winthrop College, Xi Phi Chapter, captured the

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title of Miss South Carolina Black and Gold—1985. Gina Bright, the outgoing Miss South Carolina Black and Gold, was on hand to pass down her crown. According to Delta Kappa Lambda President, Joseph Heyward, this year's pageant was one of the largest ever. The Saturday session opened with A. M. Witherspoon, Vice President for the Southern Region, giving an overview on the structure of the Fraternity. He then went on to discuss leadership characteristics and styles. Witherspoon is a biology professor at the University of North Carolina. He cited during an interview that the Afro-American Male has many problems facing him today. Some of the problems can be attributed to the educational system. Witherspoon said the educational system gives Blacks a poor background for upward mobility. He further stated that some teachers pre-judge black students and will not give them an opportunity to be in a faster moving class. Witherspoon feels students should have a standard curriculum and that teacher ability should be assessed by how

CLtpha Phi CMpha Fraternity, Inc.

BE THY BROTHER; KEEPER

memphis state u A decode for Kappa Eto

M a i n t a i n i n g irneirnDership is a job fij r all of us, If you k n o w a . B r o t h e r w h o s i n a r t i v e , o r w h o m you h a v e n i seen a r o u n d in a w h i l e , give hi mi a rail o r d r o p h i m a note,

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P The Sphinx/Spring 1985

well their students learn. He also cited that students should repeat courses until they learn the material. The second session dealt with Parliamentary Procedures, followed by the noon luncheon that featured the traditional Oratorical Contest. The activities for the remainder of the day consisted of a presentation on AfroA m e r i c a n H i s t o r y , a Protocol Workshop and a Necrology Service for deceased Alpha brothers. State Representative Frank Gilbert (D-Florence) culminated the day's events by presiding over the 8 p.m. Awards Banquet. Honored for their many years of service to Alpha Phi Alpha were Houston Person and George G. House—two of the three living charter members of Delta Kappa Lambda. Together they share 98 years in Alphadom. The third charter member, Archie Holms, lives in Fort Lauderdale, Horida. House is a retired principal of North Vista Elementary School in Florence. Person is a retired Horence County Agent of the Agriculture Department. George Sargent, State Conference Chairman, presented certificates to committee heads at the banquet. Peter Felder, State Director of Alpha Phi Alpha, rendered closing remarks. The Conference ended on Sunday with brothers attending worship services at Cumberland United Methodist Church in Horence.

Since 1906

The Brothers of Kappa Eta Chapter, Memphis State University, would like to extend fraternal greetings to the brothers of Alpha who are always holding the light high for all to see. We also offer a standing invitation to the brothers visiting our fair city to come by the Alpha House at 3807 Norriswood and fraternize with the brothers. Expanding the ideals of Brotherhood, the chapter welcomed four new brothers into the fold of Alpha. These young aspiring men, known as the "Fabulous Four," are Roderick J. Martin, a music major; Robert M. Finney, Electronic Technology; Steven L. Hooks, Electrical Engineering; and 47

u of central florida Xi Iota keeps the light shining Xi Iota Chapter in Orlando, Florida sends fraternal greetings to all those whom the light shines upon. The year 1984 has ended and the Brothers were glad to close it with a bang and look forward to staying alive in 1985 as the most active Greek organization at the University of Central Florida. The Xi Iota Chapter continues to grow as it successfully conducted another pledge line consisting of four The Stepping Brothers of Kappa Eta Chapter, Memphis State University, Memphis, Tennessee. young men who call themselves "The Four Seasons." They consist of Tony Gregory P. Henderson, an Electronic The month of February also was a Brackins (Spring); Grancis Davidson Technology major. month of great importance to Kappa (Summer); Antione Ferguson (Winter) With the coming of Thanksgiving Eta, which was founded February 2, and Anthony Taylor (Fall). We are the brothers, working along with 1975. The brothers celebrated with a glad that these young men have P.U.S.H and Coors, distributed founders' day program that will be entered the "House of Alpha," for turkeys to the needy and donated remembered for some time in the they have done so with class. In addifood baskets to some of the local churfuture. Brother Green presented the tion to the new brothers, there were ches in the city. history of the chapter and Brother Finseven more gracious and beautiful The brothers ended the 1984 year atney spoke on the history of Alpha. "Yellow Roses" added to the chapter. tending a press conference promoted Each brother played an important part On December 8, the Xi Iota Chapter by three of the local radio stations in in the successful program, performing held its first "Miss Black and Gold" Memphis. The conference dealt with in the manner of true Alphas. Afterpageant which was an outstanding the selling of a local Black radio station wards, the brothers and the Golden success. Ms Cynthia Faith Moore, an to a company based in St. Louis. This Roses enjoyed a reception that rivaled Allied Law major from Memphis, new company would change the forthe program. Tennessee was crowned Miss Black mat of our local station, which has and Gold for the 1984-85 school year. The officers for the 1984-85 term are served the Black community since For Thanksgiving, the brothers 1945 and continues to contribute to Brothers Danny Williams, President; donated canned goods and non-perthe needs of the Memphis communiLeroy Prout, Jr., Vice-President; ishable items to the "Meals on ty. Alpha Phi Alpha was the only Clarence Terry, Treasurer; Sherman Wheels" program, which distributed fraternity present at the conference. Ford, Secretary; Stanley Green, Corthe food to families for Thanksgiving We hope that our efforts, along with responding Secretary; Frank Robinson, dinner. On December 29th the United the other concerned parties, will Historian; Vernon Jackson, Parliamenprove successful. Negro College Fund held its Annual tarian; Carl Johnson, Jr., Dean of Lou Rawls " P a r a d e of Stars During the month of January, the Pledges; and Fred Jones, Sergeant-atTelathon" and the Xi Iota Chapter brothers paid tribute to the late Anns. was proud to be the only organizaBrother Martin Luther King, Jr. by Special congratulations to Brothers visiting the Lorraine Hotel. Brother tion from the University of Central Michael Bates and Donnell Alexander Clarence Terry, acting chaplain of the Florida to help by manning the for their greatest accomplishmentâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; chapter, provided us with warm phones, being runners, accounting, Graduation From College. Brother Bates words worthy of the solemn occasion. and contributing financially. has a B.A. degree in Architectural Brother Frank Robinson, Historian, Technology and Brother Alexander During the month of January the gave a stirring account of the history has just completed his second brothers distributed literature on of Alpha and the accomplishments of master's degree. crime prevention to neighboring comBrother King. Afterwards, the munities for the National Urban Kappa Eta will always continue to brothers gathered to sing the Alpha League to educate families about promote the aims and goals of Alpha, Hymn and Prayer. ways to reduce crime in their area. and we strive to spread the light On February 9, the brothers sponforever, over the city of Memphis. In closing, we invite all chapters to sored one of the twelve teams in the correspond with us regularly. We, the Special Olympics. Our team placed in Brothers of Xi Iota, are in support of the finals of the basketball competiall your endeavorsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;for goodwill is tion and later were treated to a the monarch of our house. "McDonald's Attack." 48

1 In- Sphinx Spring 1985

Insurance Regional Office in Winter Haven, Brother Bell was one of the driving forces behind the chartering of this chapter and served as its initial president, which has earned him the title among the Brothers as our President Emeritus. Brother Bell is a regular participant at our state and national conventions. A Life Member, he has earned the respect of Brothers throughout the state of Honda as well as that of our current State Director, Brother J. C. Rawls, for his vast knowledge of the workings of Alpha. Truly, "There goes an Alpha Man." Until next issue. . .

Brother Lynwood Bell of Mu Zeta Lambda at the chapter's Founders' Day program.

florida News from Mu Zeta Lambda

Greetings to all members of the House of Alpha from Mu Zeta Lambda Chapter (Polk County, Florida). We are in the midst of another fraternal year busily going about the workings of Alpha. We are pleased to announce the addition of Brother Alphonse Stewart who hails from St. Louis, Missouri, pledged at Morris Brown College in Atlanta and moved here via job transfer. We welcome his addition because from day one Brother Stewart has actively pitched in and is a definite asset to our program. Our Social Action Committee, chaired by Brother Lorenzo Robinson and working in conjunction with Bernie Little Beer Distributors, Inc., received permission from the Polk County School Board to present a program at 11 high schools thoughout this county aimed at combatting the problem of alcohol abuse. The presentation centers around a film, entitled "When to Say When," that will help people to recognize their personal limits in alcohol comsumption, for their own safety as well as that of others. On Sunday night, November 25, 1984, at Bethel A.M.E. Church in Lakeland, Florida, our chapter's Alpha Male Chorus, under the direction of Brother Jack Johnson, The Sphinx/Spring 1985

presented its third annual musical concert, with all proceeds going towards our scholarship program. The Brothers performed a variety of numbers that included songs of faith, Broadway show tunes, classical, a song of dedication, Negro spirituals, and gospels. This outstanding performace helped us present our largest amount to date in scholarships to area students at the end of the 1984-85 school term. Our annual Founder's Day Observance was held on the evening of December 2, 1984 at the Abbey Restaurant in Lakeland. This year's theme was "Facing the Future With An Eye On the Past." This program, chaired by Brother Jack Johnson and emceed by Brother Ernie Ivey, featured Mrs. Cathryn Briggs, a retired area school principal, as the keynote speaker; and culminated with the chapter award presentations. Brother Bob Holland, our chapter president, received the Most Outstanding Alpha Man award; Brother Donzell Floyd received the Most Dedicated Chapter Worker award; and Mrs. Jean Johnson (wife of Brother Jack Johnson) received the Most Dedicated Alphabette Worker award. Special awards were also presented to President Holland for service beyond the call of duty and to Brother Lynwood Bell, for meritorious service since the chapter was chartered. Brother Bell, one of the 16 charter members of this chapter, pledged at Delta Beta Chapter, Bethune-Cookman College, in the fall of 1972. After graduation and subsequent employment at the State Farm

SOUTHWEST texQs A Founders' Day of shoring

Sunday, December 2, 1984 was a very special occasion for the Brothers of Theta Delta Lambda (El Paso, Texas), as we gathered for the celebration of Founders' Day. The day began with participation in worship services at the Second Baptist Church of El Paso, which coincidentally approached its Centennial festivities. After enjoying a dynamic sermon by the Reverend John E. Redic and remembering the Seven Jewels of Alpha in prayer, we adjourned for a short respite in anxious anticipation of the evening's activites. After a brilliant Southwestern sunset, we gathered with beloved family and friends at the Fort Bliss Golf Club to enjoy a night of very special proportion. After introductory comments by Brother President Wellborn Williams, a superb verbal and pictorial history of our renowned A-Phi-A and The Seven Jewels was presented by Brother Michael Jacques. Brothers of TDL and guests alike were touched and impressed by the strong sense of history and achievement of our fraternity and its Founders demarcated in this rendition. The officers and brothers of the chapter were then introduced, as this segment of the program ended with the traditional singing of the Alpha Hymn. 49

This year's Founders' Day was a dual celebrationâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;as we remembered those who molded Alpha, as well as those less fortunate children in our community, with our annual Toy Party Project. Each brother and his guests brought play items which were collected and presented to Ms. Dorcas Jones of the Tigua Daycare Center of El Paso. The presentation is always an emotional and satisfying moment, knowing that our efforts in this spirit of giving would make many Christmas mornings in impoverished homes throughout our city better by unanticipated bounty. What more fitting augmentation to this Alpha day than by this act of love and service to mankind. The evening ended with good food and good music as we danced our way into this joyous s e a s o n . . . F o u n d e r s ' Day 1984â&#x20AC;&#x201D;a rousing success. Hasta luego!

u of central arkansas Theta Psi remembers Dr. King The Brothers of Theta Psi would like to extend their greetings to all brothers who make up this great fraternity. Theta Psi is located on the campus of the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, Arkansas. In its eleventh year of residency in Conway, the chapter was founded December 19, 1973 by ambitious young men "The Late Eight": Herbert Scott, Richard Scott, Gary Brown, Deotis Fleming, Walter Credit, Robert Balenton, Wendell Armstrong, and Robert White. Theta Psi is very actively involved in the community of Conway and supports a variety of campus programs. We have given special parties for the mentally ill children and have taken them out to enjoy a football game. Each year in March, the chapter gives scholarships to students attending UCA in the amount of $300. The scholarship is set up in the honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. On Tuesday, January 15, 1985, the chapter held a display, march, and memorial to recognize Dr. King's birthday. Theta Psi held the title of 1984 Arkansas Alpha Chapter of the Year. 50

The officers for the 1984-85 year are as follows: Vincent Burke, President; Craig Freeman, Vice President; William Gilkey, Secretary; Reginald Brown, Treasurer; and Mike Varner, Dean of Pledges. The chapter has fifteen members who are actively involved in the fraternity and other campus organizations. Theta Psi is looking forward to another successful year and upholding and working in the true spirit of Alpha.

texas Son Antonio brothers bring joy to the young The La Villita Assembly Hall in San Antonio, Texas was the site of the 17th Annual "Toys for Tots" Dance on November 23, 1984. It is no secret that over 50 members of Delta Rho Lambda Chapter pulled together to insure the success of this event. The gold invitations, printed in black script, brought nearly 900 guests for the most beautiful charitable occasion staged annually in the Alamo City. Some 800 toys were donated by the guests. The striking beauty and stunning attire of the wives, sweethearts, and female guests produced an unequaled festive atmosphere for the assembly hall. Delta Rho Lambda's President, Brother James Lewis, was overheard joyfully expressing that "Each year, this effort gets better and better" and he wants to know, "Can we, in fact, improve upon it?" The formal invitations to the dance recorded the names of the current chapter officers as follows: President, Brother James R. Lewis; Vice President, Brother Robert L. M. Hilliard; Secretary, Brother William Johnson; Corresponding Secretary, Brother Walter Smith; Financial Secretary, Brother Andrew Richardson, III; Treasurer, Brother Richard E. Calhoun; Chaplain, Brother Ralph Green; HistorianlEditorto-the-Sphinx, Brother Robert L. Wilson; Director of Education, Brother David Williams; Sergeant-at-Arms, Brother Albert Thompson, Jr.; Executive/Lay Members, Brothers William Hays and James L. Pickett; and President-Emeritus, Brother U. J. Andrews.

Brother Robert C. Kelly served as Master of Ceremonies for the short program presented during intermission. The highlight of the occasion occurred when Brother Robert Wilson made tribute to and presented a plaque to Brother James L. Pickett, Immediate Past President. He was cited for outstanding leadership in 1983 when the chapter was designated as outstanding chapter of the State of Texas, outstanding chapter of the Southwest Region; and named the most distinguished chapter in Alpha Phi Alpha. In a totally surprising moment for Brother Pickett, Brother Wilson asked Brother Pickett's lovely wife, Patricia, if she would please escort her husband to the platform. He was almost speechless when he learned that he was being honored with a plaque. On December 1, 1984, the Holiday Inn North was the site of the 1984 Founders' Day Observance. The theme: "Legends. . .Legacy," was expertly carried out under the direction of the Founders' Day Committee Chairman, Brother E. Earl McCloud, Jr., assisted by committee members Brothers Albert Thompson, William Mathis, Walter Mathis and Andrew Richardson, III. Brother Reverend Hector Grant, Pastor, St. Paul United Methodist Church, offered "Thanks." The highlight of the program was the portrayal of the lives of the Seven Jewels through the professional lives of our own brothers: Jewel Brother Henry A. Callis, by Brother Robert L. M. Hilliard; Jewel Brother Vertner W. Tandy, by Brother Michael E. Herndon; Jewel Brother Robert H. Ogle, by Brother William Smedler; Jewel Brother Charles H. Chapman, by Brother Robert L. Wilson; Jewel Brother George B. Kelley, by Brother Allen Melonson; Jewel Brother Nathaniel A. Murray, by Brother Calvin Kennedy; and Jewel Brother Eugene K. Jones, by Brother Barry W. Bruce. The chapter founders are Brothers Levi Jackson, II, Bernard Adams, U. J. A n d r e w s , John D. M c D o n a l d , Reginald Pickard, Roland Martin, James E. Taylor and James Wright. On December 22, St. Paul United Methodist Church was the site of the chapter's Fourth Annual Christmas Party for Underprivileged Children. Several Brothers and their wives assisted in providing toys for 60 The Sphinx/Spring 1985

children, food, refreshments and entertainment. Because of the Annual Toy Dance, additional toys were distributed to Project Free, Ella Austin Community Center, Bethel Day Care Center, Miller's Child Development Center, and Mt. Zion Day Care Center. For the past 17 years, Delta Rho Lambda has insured that thousands of underprivileged and needy children experience a good Christmas where otherwise their Christmas was not guaranteed.

WEST Stanford university Nu Sigma is stepping out In its first visit to The Sphinx, Nu Sigma Chapter bids fondest fraternal greetings to all Alphadom. In an effort to truly become servants to all, we have adopted an extensive schedule for the current school year. Some of our past accomplishments include a reception for Brother Dick Gregory which was held in October when Brother Gregory spoke on the campus; a donation of food for a campus-wide celebration of Kwanzaa; and a social function where the student body could interact with brothers from Nu Sigma Chapter and from chapters in the surrounding Bay Area. Projects still underway and those in the planning stages include: two blood drives co-sponsored with the American Red Cross; the painting of the Black Community Services Center building on campus; two senior citizen dinners; an Easter Egg Hunt; an extensive tutorial program; and many fundraisers, the funds from which to go to a scholarship fund for a deserving college-bound youngster. Our service projects are directed primarily towards the citizens of the city of East Palo Alto, an autonomous minority community in the vicinity of Stanford University. Individual brothers at Nu Sigma Chapter have added personal accomplishments which enhance the contribution of the organization. Brother Joseph Lynch, President of the chapter, recently completed studies in The Sphinx/Spring 1985

Salamanca, Spain, and will attend Law School in the coming year; Brother David Porter, a senior in Industrial Engineering, is leading the Stanford student body as President of the Associated Students of Stanford University; Brother Stephen Randall was instrumental in mobilizing a n u m b e r of community groups, culminating in the chapter's tutorial program; Brother Dr. Bruce Barker, a recent graduate of U.C. San Francisco Medical School, is serving the first year of his General Surgery residency. Brother Thurmon Deloney recently received outstanding marks on his Ph.D. qualifying examination in Electrical Engineering; Brother David Fleming, a Senior in Electrical Engineering, is serving on local and regional boards of the National Society of Black Engineers; Brother Craig Spearman is approaching a promising career in the field of Law; Brother Michael Guthrie, who just returned from a term at Howard University, will receive his psychology degree in the spring; Brother Kenneth C h r i s t m a s , an Economics a n d Psychology major, is approaching a

career as a model; and Brother James Woodard, a senior in Industrial Engineering, is making the bonds of Alphadom a little bit stronger by personally meeting every brother in the fraternity. It is through efforts such as these that the brotherhood of Nu Sigma intends to spread the Light of Alpha not only throughout the immediate Stanford area, but throughout the entire United States and ultimately the world.

calif ornia L.A.'s the Place Beta Psi Lambda Chapter, Los Angeles, California, has engaged in several activites recently to raise funds for its Scholarship & Housing Program and for the United Negro College Fund. In November, an "Evening in the Caribbean" Dance and Show was presented which raised over $2,000. Brother Eddie Addison was chairman 51

the committee composed of neophyte brothers. Also on the committee were Brothers Gordon Washington, Charles Henderson and Clayburn Peters. These neophyte Brothers were assisted by Brother Horace Austin. Free beer was provided by Budweiser at a party held on December 29, the night of the Telethon, to raise money for the UNCF. Beta Psi Lambda has a new slate of officers for 1984-85. The officers are Brothers Arthur Lewis, President; Cedric Holloman, Vice President; Henry Melton, Recording Secretary; Carl Mason, Corresponding Secretary; George Allen, Financial Secretary; Raymond Andrews, Treasurer; Francis Richardson, Education Director; Horace Austin, Editor-to-Sphinx; William Dailey, Parliamentarian; Marvin Wallace, Dean of Pledges; Charles W. S m i t h , Sergeant-at-Arms; John Graham, Chaplain; Homer Mason, Counsel; Charles Pitman, Custodian; and Thomas Robinson, Historian. The hopes to regain its position as The Planning Committee for Beta Psi Lambda's "Evening in the Caribbean" fundraiser in chapter Los the largest chapter in the Western Angeles is shown making plans for the event. Pictured (from left): Arthur Lewis, Chapter President; Region Eddie Anderson, dance chairman; and Pepe Fernandez, producer and director of the show and dance. this year and has planned a large slate of activities. The annual Sweetheart's Ball was held on of the event and Brother Pepe FerThe chapter also contributed $1,000 February 9, 1985 in Santa Monica. nandez provided the musical enterto the UNCF as Brother John Patton Gamma Xi Chapter of UCLA will tainment and show. A gala time was appeared on television to present the select the Queen and her court. Chairhad by all who attended and danced money. Brother Patton was initiated man is Brother Arthur Williams. to truly authentic West Indian music. into the Chapter in 1984 and headed

Delta offers fare discounts to Atlanta General Convention Delta Air Lines, in c o o p e r a t i o n with Alpha Phi Alpha, is offering a special d i s c o u n t which affords at least a 40/35%* d i s c o u n t off Delta's r o u n d trip, u n d i s c o u n t e d d a y coach fares for a t t e n d e e s traveling o n Delta to the 79th A n n i v e r s a r y C o n v e n t i o n . To take a d v a n t a g e of this discount, follow t h e s e simple s t e p s : 1. Leave for d e s t i n a t i o n b e t w e e n specified travel d a t e s . 2. Stay n o longer t h a n 15 d a y s . 3. P u r c h a s e of tickets will d e t e r m i n e the p e r c e n t a g e of the discount: 45 d a y s prior to d e p a r t u r e = 40%* d i s c o u n t 7 d a y s prior to d e p a r t u r e = 3 5 % * d i s c o u n t 4. Call this n u m b e r , 1-800-241-6760, for y o u r reservations 8:30 a . m . - 8:00 p . m . Eastern Time - Daily. REFER TO FILE NUMBER U0101. This special d i s c o u n t is available only t h r o u g h this n u m b e r . If y o u n o r m a l l y u s e t h e services of a travel a g e n t , h a v e t h e m place y o u r reservations t h r o u g h o u r toll free n u m b e r to obtain t h e s a m e a d v a n t a g e s for y o u . Delta also h a s a variety of o t h e r p r o m o t i o n a l fares, s o m e of w h i c h m a y r e p r e s e n t a n e v e n g r e a t e r s a v i n g s . C h e c k w i t h Delta for t h e best d i s c o u n t a p p l i c a b l e to y o u r itinerary. * Applies to Delta round trip day coach fares in the Continental previously discounted. 52

U.S. and Puerto Rico which have not

been

The Sphinx/Spring 1985

Omega Chapter* Laurence T. Young, Sr , Editor

Brother CHARLES B. ARMSTRONG, SR. entered Omega Chapter March 25, 1985 on arrival at Mercy Hospital, Chicago, Illinois as the result of gunshot wounds, inflicted by a depraved assailant in an altercation in premises commonly known and described as 2600 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. Brother A r m s t r o n g was born in Nashville, Tennessee, July 22, 1923. He served in the U.S. Army from 1943-1945 and later attended Fisk University, graduating in 1950 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He was a member of Chi chapter, later transferring to Xi Lambda Chapter upon his moving to Chicago in 1965. He was the founder of the South Suburban News in Harvey, Illinois, which later became the Chicago Metro News when he moved the paper to Chicago. For several years Brother Armstrong taught in the Public Schools of Chicago, and was active politically as well as in civic projects — an avid defender of the faith. Obsequies — a celebration of his life were conducted by the Reverend Gregory Ingram — at the A. A. Rayner Funeral Parlors in Chicago on March 30, 1985. He is survived by his wife Ruth and five children; Margalynne, Judith, Patricia and Peter; and a grandson Justin — plus many, many collateral friends and relatives. Brother DR. GEORGE H. BENNETT died on Saturday, February 16, 1985. He was born in Philadelphia and he was a resident of Teaneck, New Jersey since 1955. He received his early education in the public schools of Haddonfield, N.J. and earned his bachelor's degree at Virginia State College, his master's degree at the University of Michigan, and his doctorate at New York University. Dr. Bennett, had served as the Executive Director ot the Examining Board of the Manhattan and Bronx Surface Transit Operating Authority (MABSTOA); Senior Officer at the United Nations Institute for Training and Research in charge of fellowships and later Chief of Programs and Project Administration; Assistant to the Vice President for International Affairs and Exhibits, New York World's Fair 1964-1965; Director of the AsiaAfrica Department, Institute of International Education (HE) in NYC; UNESCO Education Specialist and Consultant in Manila to the Government of the Philippines; Veterans Administration in New York City as Chief of Guidance and Counseling Centers at the City College of New York and New York University and as VA area Supervisor of Vocational Rehabilitation and Education for New York and Puerto Rico. Dr. Ber.nett was initiated into Beta Gamma Chapter at Virginia State College. He was a Life Member, No. 754 and a WWII Army Veteran. While a resident of Teaneck, he had served as a member of the township's Advisory Board on Community Relations, and the Teaneck Rent Board. Services were private and arranged by Volk Funeral Home, Teaneck, New Jersey. T h e S p h i n x / S p r i n g 1985

Brother R. FRANK BRYANT entered Omega Chapter November 29, 1984 at Jefferson Regional Medical Center, Pine Bluff, Arkansas following a brief illness. Brother Bryant's educational background includes elementary and secondary training in the Public Schools of Pine Bluff; he received his Bachelor's degree from A.M. & N. College, and his medical degree from Meharry Medical College, Nashville. Brother Bryant's activities include membership in many national and local medical associations; Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity — Past President of Jefferson County Med-Cai Society and Arkansas Medical, Dental and Pharmaceutical/Association; Pine Bluff Chamber of Commerce; member of St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church. Funeral rites were conducted at St. Peter's Catholic Church Friday, December 2, 1984, with Father Clemet Mathis, officiating. He is survived by his wife, Alice; two sons, R. Frank Jr. and Andrew; two daughters, Patricia and Regina, many collateral relatives and friends.

$1 MP

Brother T H O M A S M. CLARKE entered Omega Chapter March 26, 1985 at Michael Reese Hospital, following an extended illness. Brother Clarke was born in Bryan, Texas, January 10, 1899. He received his elementary and secondary education in Muskogee, Oklahoma; following graduation he entered the United States Army and served in France during World War #1, after which he entered the University of Kansas, where he earned a Bachelor of Art degree. Brother Clarke moved to Chicago in 1924 following his marriage to Irma G. Frazier of Kansas City, Missouri. Upon moving to Chicago he entered the Chicago-Kent College of Law where he received his Doctor of Jurisprudence degree. Brother Clarke was an active volunteer and leader in numerous organizations: President of Cook County Bar Association; Board of Directors of Randall House; President Xi Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha; commander of Giles Post of V.F. W. and many other national and local organizations. He was a staunch member of St. Margaret's Episcopal Church where he served in numerous capacities. Mass of the Resurrection was conducted by Canon David Harris at St. Margaret's Episcopal Church, March 31, 1985 — interment at Lincoln Cemetery. Brother Clarke is survived by his wife, Irma; a sister, Frances;

two brothers, Albert and Chandler; a step mother, Norma; several nieces and nephews, plus collateral relatives and friends.

Brother FRANK EARL DAVIS e n t e r e d Omega Chapter December 10, 1984 in the New Honover Memorial Hospital, Wilmington, North Carolina, following an extended illness. Brother Davis was a dedicated Greensboro, North Carolina physician, and medical leader. He was a native of Wilmington and served the Greensboro Community and the medical profession with distinction for 42 years. Brother Davis was a 50year member of Alpha Phi Alpha, former president of the Greensboro Medical Society, college physician at North Carolina A and T. State University for 29 years. He was a graduate of Wayland Academy; Virginia Union University; Meharry Medical College, and the New York Post Graduate School of Medicine. Funeral rites were conducted at Bethel A.M.E. Church in Greensboro by the Reverend I. W. Knight. He is survived by a daughter, Shirley; and two grandchildren, in addition to his devoted wife of 54 years.

Brother NEWTON LAFAYETTE GREGG — churchman, statesman and community leader — entered Omega Chapter October 23, 1984 at Humana Hospital, Greensboro, North Carolina, following a brief illness. Brother Gregg was a graduate of Johnson C. Smith University, Charlotte, North Carolina; and the Agency Management School of the Life Insurance Agency Management Association. He had a very successful career with the North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company serving as Manager — branch office — in the Greensboro District. Brother Gregg held membership in the NAACP; the Greensboro Men's Club; the Mayor's Committee for the Handicapped; and Kappa Lambda Chapter. Final rites for the repose of his soul were held at St. James Presbyterian Church in Greensboro, North Carolina, with the Reverend Lloyd Green, Jr., officiating. Brother Gregg is survived by his wife, Lucille; a brother, Junius; many collateral relatives and friends.

Brother CRISPIN HALL, SR., 83, of Troy, New York, retired civil engineer with the New York State Department of Transportation, entered Omega Chapter November 27, 1984, in his home after a long illness. Born in Barbados, West Indies, Brother Hall received his bachelor's and master's degrees in civil engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Brother Hall was an active member of Trinity Episcopal Church, where he served for many years as a lay reader and

member of the choir and vestry. He was also formerly Church school superintendent and, at the time of his death, was warden emeritus. Brother Hall was a Charter member and past president of Beta Pi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He also served as secretary of the Troy Branch NAACP. Survivors include his wife, Lucille; a daughter, Bettie Brinson, a son, Brother Crispin Hall, Jr.; a sister and three grandchildren. Omega services were conducted by Beta Pi Lambda Chapter November 29 at the Mason Funeral Home in Troy. Funeral services were held in Trinity Episcopal Church on November 30, 1984.

Brother MARQUE LESLIE JACKSON, M.D. entered Omega Chapter December 15, 1984 in Atlanta, Georgia; he was born September 20, 1900 in Anniston, Alabama — where he completed his elementary and secondary education. Brother Jackson did his collegiate work at Morehouse College, Atlanta, Georgia and his medical work at the University of Chicago. He practiced medicine at Harris Memorial Hospital, and was on the staff at several of the Hospitals in Atlanta. Brother Jackson was active in many professional, civic and social organizations, including the National Medical Association; Life Member of Alpha Phi Alpha; Sigma Pi Phi; the Y.M.C.A.; the N.A.A.C.P.; the Morehouse College Club, and he was an ardent member of the Friendship Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, where the final obsequies were held December 17, 1984, with the Reverend William V. Guy, officiating. Brother Jackson is survived by his wife, Ruth; two daughters, Yvonne and Marquelyn; many grandchildren, collateral relatives and friends. Brother WILBUR P. JONES entered Omega Chapter, December 9, 1984, at the age of 76, after a bravely fought battle with cancer. Born December 27, 1907, in Union Springs, Alabama. Brother Jones was a faithful supporter of the Eta Iota Lambda Chapter, Athens, Georgia. Service to mankind epitomized our beloved brother and the city of Athens most appropriately recognized Brother Jones on September 25, 1984, by proclaiming "Wilbur P. Jones Day" and honoring him with a testimonial dinner attended by over 700 black, white, rich and poor citizens of Athens. Proclamations from President Reagan to the requested singing of the fraternity hymn highlighted the affair. Brother Jones was a man who believed in helping others. He was the Executive Director of ACTION, Inc., and was cofounder, manager and treasurer of Bethel Church Homes. He served on the Clarke County Board of Education, Athens Housing Authority, the Grand Jury Commission, the City of Athens Personnel Board, the Mayor's Committee on Hiring the Handicapped, the Advisory Committee of Athens Vocational Technical School, and was chairman of the board of Hope Haven School for the Handicapped, as well as serving as a member of a number of state and national organizations. He worked behind the scenes for equal treatment for Black and minority citizens, promoting equal voting rights, equal hospital treatment, better recreational facilities, paved streets in Black neighborhoods, equal employment opportunities, and opportunities to serve in government. Omega Chapter services were performed at his gravesite on December 12, 1984. T h e S p h i n x / S p r i n g 1985

Brother KENNETH LOWELL JOHNSON, SR. entered Omega Chapter September 1, 1984 at Jefferson Regional Medical Center, Pine Bluff, Arkansas, following a brief illness. Brother Johnson was born July 8, 1915 in Brooklyn, New York. He received his elementary education in Xenia, Ohio; he earned a Bachelor's degree at Wilberforce University, Ohio in Health and Physical Education; he received a Master's degree in Physical Education from Springfield College, Springfield, Massachusetts — and a doctor's degree in Health Education and Physical Education at Boston University. Brother Johnson was an active member of Delta Sigma Lambda Chapter (Life Member). He was a devout Catholic member of many Local and National organizations. The Mass of Christian Burial was conducted by St. Joseph's Catholic Church September 5, 1985 — conducted by Fr. Thomas A. Mullally. He is survived by his wife Evelyn; a son, Kenneth, Jr.; a grand son, and many collateral relatives and friends.

Brother BELFORD V. LAWSON, JR. (See Legacy Section, this issue.) Brother BOOKER T. LEWIS e n t e r e d Omega Chapter September 19, 1984 in his home at Panama City, Florida, following a brief illness. He was born in Pike C o u n t y , M i s s i s s i p p i ; he received his elementary education in the Public Schools of Jackson, Mississippi; his Baccalaureate degree from Knoxville College, Tennessee; and a Master's degree from Columbia University, New York. He was an ardent member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church. Brother Lewis worked in the Bay County Public School system as an instructor in Health and Physical Education; he was also a bail bondsman and a member of the Bay County Chamber of Commerce, and the Florida Sheriff's Association. Obsequies were conducted at St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Panama City September 24, 1984 with Pastor Jackson E. Jones, officiating. He is survived by his wife, Flossie; a son, Kenneth; a daughter, Nellie; a sister, Mary, and many collateral relatives, and friends.

Brother O. O. MORRIS, age 92 entered Omega Chapter January 16, 1985 following an extended illness in his home in El Cajon, California, where he had resided for seven years. Brother Morris will be remembered as a Y.M.C.A. man for his entire life time. He has a long history of Alpha Phi Alpha, initiated at Xi Chapter, Wilberforce — later became a Chapter Member of Theta Lambda Chapter, Dayton, Ohio, then finally Xi Lambda Chapter in Chicago. He was dedicated to the YMCA movement for over 60 years, during which time he gave of his time and efforts to the YMCA in Dayton, Ohio; St. Louis, Missouri, and Chicago, Illinois; He T h e S p h i n x / S p r i n g 1985

was appointed Executive Director of the Chicago YMCA International Affairs until his retirement in 1975. While in California, he became an active member of the El Cajon Salvation Army Senior Citizens Group. Memorial Service was held January 17, 1985 at the Salvation Army Center and burial was in National Cemetery in San Diego, California. He is survived by his daughter, Yvonne; a son-in-law, Edward; a nephew, Brother Morris M. Hatchett; and a foster son, Brother Clifton E. Bailey — many collateral relatives, and friends. Brother Morris was born in Danville, Virginia, and was a graduate of Wilberforce Univeristy.

Brother EDWARD LLOYD SIMON entered Omega Chapter September 24, 1984 in his home — Atlanta, Georgia, following a brief illness. He was born July 4, 1908 in Memphis, Tennessee; educated in the elementary school of LeMoyne Institute, a n d did s e c o n d a r y a n d collegiate work at Atlanta University. Brother Clark remained active with his Alma Mater, serving as President of the National Alumni Association for many years; member of the Board of Trustees of Clark College since 1958 and Chairman of the Board since 1968. Brother Simon was a devout and concerned member of the First Congrational Church, which institution he served in many capacities. His career in Insurance began in 1934 when he joined Atlanta Life Insurance Company, where he served until his passing — as Chairman of the Board of Directors. He was an active member in many local and national organizations — the recipient, of many awards from civic, social, religious and educational organizations. Funeral services were conducted by the Reverend Marvin Morgan of the First Congragational Church, Atlanta, Georgia. He is survived by his wife, Jewel; a son Edward, Jr.; a daughter, Charlene; and many collateral relatives and friends. Brother THURLOW EVANS TIBBS e n t e r e d Omega Chapter October 20, 1984 at h i s h o m e in Montgomery, Alabama. He was the son of Dr. Roy W. Tibbs, a noted Professor of Music at Howard University, Washington, D. C. — his mother was known professionally as Madame Lillian Evanti. Brother Tibbs received his elementary and Secondary education at Howard University, Washington, D. C. He was a member of Beta and later Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha; he was a member of the Central N. W. Civic Association, in which his uncle, the late Brother Nathaniel Murray, had been a founder. In keeping with his work and interest in African Affairs — Brother Tibbs founded and operated the Africa House in the early 1960's which promoted cultural understanding between the United States and the African Nations. Final rites were held at the Church of the Good Shephard in Montgomery with the Reverend Donald Farrow officiating. He is survived by his wife Anna; a son Thurlow, Jr.; a daughter, Diane; a cousin, Timetta; and many friends.

— where he was described as a warm, dedicated physician who was completely loyal to Provident. Brother Whitfield was an active member of Xi Lambda Chapter; a life member of the N.A.A.C.P.; member of the Century Club of the Washington Park Y.M.C.A.; Charter member of "Bravo!" chapter of the Chicago Lyric Opera Company — and a loyal member of Greater Bethesda Baptist Church, where he served as Trustee. Funeral rites were conducted at Greater Bethesda Baptist Church January 9, 1985, with the Reverend A. Lincoln James, celebrating. He is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Maurice Patterson and Mrs. Gwendolyn Kenny; a niece, Pamela — several grand nieces and nephews; many cousins — collateral relatives, and a host of friends.

Brother LAWRENCE ALEXANDER WHITFIELD, M.D. entered Omega Chapter January 4, 1985 — following a brief illness. He was born in Bloomington, Illinois — received his early education in Alton, Illinois; later he attended the University of Chicago — where he received his medical degree and a Phi Beta Kappa key simultaneously. Brother Whitfield served as attending physician for 30 years at Provident Hospital,

TRANSFERS TO

Omega Chapter A l l chapters and Brothers are urged t o s u b m i t the names of Brothers transferred t o O m e g a Chapter d u r i n g the past year — so t h a t proper t r i b u t e m a y be o f f e r e d at t h e General C o n v e n t i o n .

SS#.

Name Last Chapter of A f f i l i a t i o n