APRIL 2021
THE TORCH FIRST OF ALL, SERVANTS OF ALL, WE SHALL TRANSCEND ALL
THE OFFICIAL NEWS SOURCE OF ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC, MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
Farewell dear Brother RUDOLPH MICHAEL DELANO MCGANN JR. Beta Chapter Spring 1995 - The Tail and the ROCK!
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER | 2405 FIRST STREET, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20001| MULAMBDA.ORG
Picture by Names 1. Rudolph Harris 2. Curtis Hunigan 3. Fred Valentine 4. Horace Dawson, Jr. 5. Paul Cotton 6. A. Gilbert Douglas 7. Ryland Harris 8. Mark Jones 9. Andre Lucas 10. Kenneth Hobart 11. Derrick Butts 12. John Mark-Williams
13. Jeremy Triplett 14. Mikael LaRoche 15. Joseph Housey, III 16. Jason Clark 17. Mark Ross 18. Louis Ford 19. James Heck 20. Eddie Neal 21. Gerard Williams 22. Garrett Miller 23. Adrian James 24. O. Jackson Cole, Jr.
25. Albert Williams 26. Lucius Brown 27. Marcel Desroches 28. Kellen Moore 29. Jamison Taylor, Jr. 30. Mathew Aaron, Jr. 31. Sean Perkins 32. James Harmon 33. Larry Ware 34. Frank King 35. Antonio King 36. Rudolph McGann, Jr.
37. Alvin Reaves, III 38. Ryle Bell 39. Drew Love 40. Colin Campbell 41. Bryant Young 42. Arthur King 43. Charvis Campbell 44. LeRoy Lowery, III 45. Joseph Paul 46. Timothy Fitzgerald 47. Jason Jefferson 48. Samuel Armstrong
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TWO JEWELS & TWENTY MEN OF ALPHA OUR CHAPTER Mu Lambda is Alpha's eleventh alumni chapter, chartered October 1, 1923, in Washington D.C. The chapter was established, in part, in response to the desire of graduate brothers, many whom were initiated into Beta Chapter at Howard University, to give aid to the undergraduate brothers and continue the work of Alpha. Chartered by 22 distingushed men of Alpha which included Jewel Nathaniel Allison Murray and Jewel Robert Harold Ogle.
CHAPTER LEGACY There has been six members who served as the General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and two whom served as the Eastern Region Vice President. Mu Lambda is equally proud of our current brothers making their mark in the Washington D.C. community and beyond. Our chapter has many entrepreneurs, activists, political leaders, philanthropists, academicians, ministers and so much more. Our diverse brotherhood age range is between the ages of 25 and 98. We all work together to maximize the brotherhood of Alpha by following the Objective, Mission and AIMS of our Fraternity.
FIRST OFFICERS The officers elected at the first meeting were Brother Harold Stratton-President, Brother John Lowery-Vice President, Brother Victor Daly-Secretary, Brother Daniel W. Edmonds-Treasurer, and Brother Nathaniel Allison Murray (Jewel)-Chaplain. Mu Lambda was thus established and was on its way into history!
www.mulambda.org
In this Issue 1 2 3 4 5 6 8 13 14 19 20 21 22 23 24 26 27 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47
Cover Front Cover Picture by Names In this Issue Executive Board, Committee Chairs, Charter Members, Past Presidents The Presidents’ Message The Vice-Presidents’ Message Welcome to the House Spring 2021 Mu Lambda Cleans the Block Calling All Interested Brothers Farewell Brother Rudy McGann Passing of Brother Henry Stewart Message from the Health and Wellness Committee 89th Eastern Region Convention Birthday and Alphaversary Sean McCaskill as Interim Executive Director Brother Major General William J. Walker Georgia Lawmaker Charged With Felony For Knocking On Gov. Brian Kemp’s Office Door Can Democrats end the decades-long impasse on gun control? Armed White men who showed up at a Black family’s home were acquitted Alpha History - Bro. Juluis Harrison Brice Initiation House of Ruth DC The Jewel Lounge Literary Society Food of the month Dessert of the month Drink of the Month Advertise with us Domino’s Everything Co-op Radio Show AKSTAR Apparel East State Street Band Exit Realty: Brother Albert A. Williams Financial Planning Needs Prostate Cancer a Family Affair The New Mu Lambda Chapter App is Here Chapter App by Publicall Telecommunications Message from the Editor Esprit de Fraternite
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Executive Board
Committee Chairs
Charter Members
Past Presidents
President John “Tony” Wilson
Auditing Vacant
Vice President Mikael LaRoche
Brother’s Keeper Carlos DeBose
Recording Secretary Jason Jefferson
Budget and Finance Vernon Oakes
Arthur Curtis* Merrill H. Curtis* Victor R. Daly* Eugene L. C. Davidson* Arnold Donawa* Walter Garvin* William L. Hansberry* Charles H. Houston* Edward Howard* Joseph R. Jones* R. Frank Jones* J Edward Lowery* Clarence H. Mills* Jewel Nathaniel Allison Murray* Norman L. McGhee* FN4 Jewel Robert Harold Ogle* Louis H. Russell* James N. Saunders* Emory B. Smith* Harold C. Stratton* J.H.N. Waring* Charles H. Wesley* FN3
1. Harold Stratton* 1923-1924 2. Howard H. Long* FN2 3. Charles H. Wesley* 1926-1928 4. Frank Adams* 5. R. Frank Jones* 6. James B. Browning* 7. Jewel Henry Arthur Callis* FN1 8. U. Simpson Tate* 9. Claude Ferebee* 10. George O. Butler* 11. C.C. House* 1938-1940 12. Verdie L. Robinson* 13. Walter M. Booker* FN5 14. Jack Bond* 15. Millard R. Dean* 16. Frank Davis* 17. Clifton Hardy* 18. Herman Johnson* 19. Howard Jenkins* 20. C.C. House* 1952-1954 21. William F. Nelson* 22. Aubrey E. Robinson* 23. Joseph Waddy* 24. Edward J. Austin* 25. Elgy Johnson* 1964-1965 26. George H. Windsor* 1965-1967 27. James T. Speight* 1967-1969 28. Harold Sims* 1969-1970 29. Eddie L. Madison* 1970-1972 30. Wilbur Sewell* 1972-1974 31. Charles Walker Thomas* 1974-1976 32. Theodore Taylor* 1976-1978 33. Elmer Moore* 1978-1981 34. William E. Calbert* 1981-1983 35. Osmond Brown* 1983-1986 36. Vernon Gill 1986-1988 37. LeRoy Lowery, III 1988-1990 38. Morris Hawkins* 1990-1992 39. C.C. Jones 1992-1995 40. Vincent Orange 1995-1997 41. Melvin White 1997-1999 42. LeRoy Lowery, III FN6 1999-2001 43. James Haynes 2001-2002 44. Rudolph Harris* 2002-2004 45. Edwin Norwood 2004-2006 46. James McDonald 2006-2008 47. Timothy Fitzgerald 2008-2010 48. Kwame Ulmer 2010-2011 49. LeRoy Lowery, III 2011-2013 50. Eddie Neal 2013-2015 51. LeRoy Lowery, III 2015-2017 52. Joel Grey 2017-2018 53. Eddie Neal 2018-2020 54. John “Tony” Wilson 2020-
Corresponding Secretary Samuel Armstrong Financial Secretary Vernon Oakes Treasurer Michael Young
Communication and Technology Albert Williams Constitution Gilbert Douglas
Chaplain William “Tony” Hawkins
DC National Pan Hellenic Council Vacant
Historian Silas J Woods
Fundraising Vacant
Archivist James Harmon
Golf Tournament Vacant
Intake Coordinator Andre Lucas Assoc. Editor/Sphinx Kenneth A. Williams Dir. Ed. Activities Sean Perkins Sergeant-at-Arms Malcolm Carter Parliamentarian Gilbert Douglass Web Master Albert Williams
Health & Wellness Alvin L. Reaves, III Membership Kobina Yanka Men Who Cook Garrett Miller Mu Lambda Chapter History Book Silas Woods III Nominating Vacant
Editor of the Torch Kenneth A. Williams
Programs Karl Bruce
Member at Large LeRoy Lowery III
Public Policy Rudolph McGann
Risk Management Officer Mikael E. LaRoche
Social Joseph Gibbs
Immediate Past President Eddie Neal
Community Service Samuel Armstrong Marketing/Promotion Committee Vacant Social Media Committee Vacant
CHARTERED ON MONDAY OCTOBER 1, 1923 WASHINGTON, D.C. FN1 6th General President 1915-1916 FN2 General Secretary 1915-1916 7th General President 1916-1917 FN3 14th General President 1931-1940 FN4 General Secretary 1920-1926 FN5 8th Eastern Regional Vice-President 1950-1953 FN6 23rd Eastern Regional Vice-President 2000-2001 Executive Director MLK Memorial
* Omega Chapter Brothers Footnote (FN) MU LAMBDA TORCH 2021
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The President’s Message Greetings Brothers, Welcome to our new Brothers who have just completed our initial membership development process who are now duly initiated members of our glorious fraternity. This is a joyous time for us as a chapter and for the fraternity as a whole. Sadly this time is tempered by the recent loss of a relatively young brother in our chapter who has transitioned from Mu Lambda Chapter to Omega chapter. This makes me reflect on the privilege and honor of having so many good men being a part of my life who are my Brothers. I feel very fortunate and proud. The expansion of our personal circles is phenomenal and with it comes the occasional losses. “Goodwill is the monarch of this house. Men, unacquainted, enter, shake hands, exchange greetings, and depart friends. Cordiality exists among all who abide within”, captures for me again this moment in my Alpha and life’s journey. We are a strong and resilient chapter, part of a strong resilient and purposeful fraternity. I thank you Brothers for all that you do for me, each other and all of mankind. Brother John “Tony” Wilson, President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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The Vice President’s Message
April Showers Bring May Flowers..... and like clockwork, 2021 has given us a few storms to weather. With a heavy heart, I type this message to the brothers of the Chapter, friends, family members, and supporters of this MIGHTY CHAPTER. We have to say farewell to another of our beloved brothers called to our Chapter of SWEET REST. Our Brother “Rudy” McGann has been a staple in the Mu Lambda House & served as our hospitality chair for multiple chapter administrations. He transitioned into the Omega Chapter on the 29th March 2021 while at the hospital with his family. A mild-mannered man of unwavering support and service to this Chapter - Rudy exemplified ALPHA as a dedicated father, attorney, Howard Alumnus, and son of Beta Chapter; I can personally say that I have lost a good friend. Most of us can recall a moment where we shared in the passions of our good brother. A broiled lamb chop, creamy tomato soup, or possibly a fish prepared to perfection, a smoked beef brisket, or a sweet delectable to end a chapter meeting. Brother McGann put his foot down in the Chapter’s kitchen as he selflessly served us for over four years as “chief minister of meals.” I’d be remiss if I didn’t take this opportunity to write on the joys of serving with this great brother. From Voter Registration campaigns to simply peeling cucumbers, I am grateful to have had nine years to get to know him and his family. I have had the pleasure of visiting his home on multiple occasions as he is one of the brothers who was within walking distance of our chapter house. I will honestly miss his calls during Howard Homecoming week to come share libations, but most importantly, to allow me to provide speakers for his annual gathering. A gentle giant, Mu Lambda has lost a true gem. As I have asked before, brothers, please be each other’s keeper! Our chapter network surrounded our Brother Rudy McGann and his family, and for that, I am thankful. It is this connectivity that I desire for ALL BROTHERS OF MU LAMBDA. Call, text, visit, email each other! Let us not wait until the first Thursday of the month to be present and a keeper of the fraternal creed of fellowship & brotherhood. This pandemic has been an emotional tax on us all & I encourage us all to lean on the shield for support. Brothers, we are stronger together. I appreciate and love you all. To our neophytes - WELCOME to your brotherhood - WELCOME to a lifetime bond. WELCOME TO MU LAMBDA. Fraternally, Brother Mikael LaRoche, Vice-President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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WELCOME TO THE MU LAMBDA
HOUSE
OF
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC.
Spring 2021
WALIOPANDA 19 (ASCENDED 19) MU LAMBDA TORCH 2021
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Mu Lambda Clean’s the Block
Spring is here officially, daylight savings is back in place, squirrels & birds are out of hibernation & Mu Lambda is out in full force. After a year of being away from the majority of our public gatherings the chapter came together on Saturday 20th March, to clean the streets surrounding our chapter house.
21 brothers strong, masked, gloved and armed with trash bags in hand, the chapter took to First St NW, Bryant St NW & North Capitol to fill over 10 industrial trash bags of liter & debris from the sidewalks, and front steps of welcoming neighbors. A successful service to our community: it is expected that we remain active as the weather warms up, with more opportunities to be visible in the neighborhood to come soon! Thankful to all the brothers who attended & SERVED Brother Mikael LaRoche, Vice-President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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Calling All Interested Brothers: Brothers: MU LAMBDA TURNS 100 ON OCTOBER 1, 2023! We are currently seeking brothers to serve on the centennial committee. If you are interested please reach out to Brother Jason Jefferson at jasjeffer@gmail.com or 301-337-9584.
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Bro. Rudolph McGann Jr. MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
OMEGA CHAPTER SUNDAY, MARCH 5, 1995 - MONDAY, MARCH 29, 2021
“Fairwell, dear Brother, transcendentare thou, Thy spirit shall dwell with us now. We cherish thy mem’ry, thy good name we’ll revere to thy glory, thy honor, brother, dear.” MU LAMBDA TORCH 2021
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. MOURNS THE PASSING OF BROTHER HENRY A. STEWART
leading the development of a strategic approach to health communications, overseeing the execution of the strategy, and measuring results. His role focused on AARP’s work and resources on health issues, such as Medicare, Medicaid, brain health, wellness, and prevention. “Brother Henry Stewart was an outstanding Brother and an exemplary member of our dear fraternity,” said Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. General President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III. “His drive for excellence was clear through his personal and professional accomplishments and his fraternal spirit was palpable as reflected by the lives that he positively touched. We will miss our dear Brother.” Prior to his leadership roles at the General Office, Brother Stewart was the founder and Principal Strategist of the Emerson Street Strategy Group, Senior Vice President of Weber Shandwick, Deputy Executive Director at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Campaign for High School Equity, and Senior Liaison for External and Community Affairs at the National Education Association (NEA) among others. Brother Stewart earned his bachelor’s degree in Economics and Political Science from Morehouse College and was also a former minister at Emory United Methodist Church in Washington, D.C.
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. mourns the death of its former Assistant Executive Director of Marketing and Public Relations and former Editor-of-the-Sphinx, Brother Henry A. Stewart. Brother Stewart, a Spring 1999 Alpha Rho Chapter initiate, a Life Member of the Fraternity, and a member of Omicron Lambda Alpha (OLA) Chapter, transitioned to Omega Chapter on Sunday, March 14, 2021.
Within his OLA alumni chapter, he formerly served as vice-president and president of the chapter. We extend our deepest condolences to the Stewart family, Morehouse and Spelman College alumni, Alpha College and Alumni Chapter Brothers, as well as all others who knew and loved him. Farewell, dear Brother. Transcendent art thou.
Brother Stewart, who served in his role at the General Office from June 2017 to November 2019, was an award-winning senior communications executive, last serving as Director of Integrated Communications Strategy for AARP, where he was responsible for MU LAMBDA TORCH 2021
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Message from the Health and Wellness Committee Greetings Brothers, I hope that this Health and Wellness communique finds the Brotherhood well as we enter the first days of spring here in the DMV. Many look forward to this time of the year, a time to leave behind the cold and doldrums of the winter months. Spring signifies new birth, a revival of sorts, the blossoming of new life as we experience the broad palette of spring colors and sweet fragrances wafting through the air. It’s a connectedness with nature and an enjoyment and anticipation of warmer weather and longer, brighter days to come. As more and more of the population becomes vaccinated, perhaps a greater connectedness with nature and one another will ensue. As we consider the burgeoning of springtime, I would like to highlight two significant health observances that are recognized during the month of April: National Donate Life Month and National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD). African-Americans constitute only approximately 13% the U.S. population, however, African-Americans comprise the largest group of minorities in need of an organ transplant. This demographic comprises roughly 30% of individuals awaiting transplantation according Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health. Due to a higher prevalence of vascular disease, such as diabetes and hypertension, African-Americans suffer a higher degree of organ failure. For African-Americans with organ failure awaiting transplantation, only a modest group, approximately 25%, actually received organ transplants in 2019. Similarly, only a small proportion of organs donors (12%) were from AfricanAmericans. Organ donation is not a topic that is frequently discussed in our community, it is sometimes seen as one of the “taboo” areas of discussion. Similarly, discussions regarding healthcare preferences, in the circumstance of a serious illness, can be a difficult conversation to have and is one that is often avoided in the African-American community. April 16 of each year is designated as National Healthcare Decisions
Day (NHDD). This date was intentionally chosen to recognize NHDD as it is often said that there are only two things certain in this life, taxes (April 15) and death (NHDD April 16). If you have not taken the time to consider and to complete an advance directive (healthcare proxy, medical power-of-attorney, healthcare surrogate, resuscitation preferences) to define the extent of treatment that you would desire in an end-stage or terminal medical condition or in a situation of a persistent vegetative state, now is the time to do so. “It’s never too late, until it’s too late”. The two healthcare observances referenced above may seem disparate in their scope, organ donation and advance care planning, however, the central theme to both relates to gifts: the gift of life through organ donation and the gift of personal responsibility through advance healthcare decision making, thus, sparing your family and friends of the onerous burden of medical decision making on your behalf. For additional information on organ donation and advance care planning: April is National Donate Life Month - Donate Life America The Conversation Project - National Healthcare Decisions Day — April 16 PREPARE (prepareforyourcare.org) Fraternally submitted, Brother Alvin L. Reaves, III, M.D. Co-Chair Health and Wellness Committee
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BIRTHDAYS Arlester Brown Athel Q. Liggins Garnett Wood Derrick P. Thomas Ryle Bell Drew M. Love Christopher R. Emanuel Clyde Blassengale Colin H. Campbell Jeffery S. Fleming John Mabry Anthony T. Moore Kent A. Benjamin Walter Whitley O. J. Cole, Jr. Robert E. Richardson Franklin R. Ampy Fred L. Valentine
April 1st April 1st April 1st April 1st April 1st April 4th April 4th April 6th April 8th April 9th April 9th April 9th April 12th April 12th April 14th April 18th April 21st April 30th
Arlester Brown Franklin P. De Laine, Sr. Jamison B. Taylor, Jr. Sean D. Plater Jeffery S. Fleming Alexander C. Pullen Tony Wilson Vincent B. Orange, Sr. John D. Williams Joshua J. DuBoise John Mabry DeAngelo M. Copeland Adrian V. James Kwame O. Reed
April 1st April 3rd April 3rd April 5th April 5th April 9th April 9th April 11th April 12th April 17th April 22nd April 22nd April 25th April 28th
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GENERAL PRESIDENT LONZER, ALPHA PHI ALPHA BOARD OF DIRECTORS APPOINTS BROTHER SEAN L. MCCASKILL AS INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Baltimore, MD – Today, the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Brother Sean McCaskill as the Interim Executive Director. Effective March 1, 2021, McCaskill will lead the operational execution of fraternal priorities and oversee the corporate headquarters. Brother McCaskill, initiated at Xi Sigma Chapter on April 7, 1990, is no stranger to Alpha Leadership having served as both the District Director of the Pennsylvania Association of Alpha Chapters and the 26th Eastern Regional Vice President. He is currently an active member of the Alpha Omicron Lambda Chapter in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. “Brother McCaskill is a great coach,” said General President, Dr. Willis L. Lonzer, III. “He loves our Brotherhood and will play a pivotal role in providing our Board with key insights, as well as providing leadership by facilitating the formation of a cohesive team environment at the General Office that helps to improve our service to our Brotherhood and the communities we serve around the world.” In addition, Brother McCaskill is one of America’s emerging voices of the 21st century focused on saving our youth. He is an educational consultant, leadership coach, and entrepreneur. “Everything must begin and end with the motivation of your staff; show us an organization that is successful, and I will show you an organization where the employees are motivated. Show us an organization that is not successful, and I will show you an organization where the people lack motivation,” said Brother McCaskill. “As the Interim Executive Director, I have committed to the General President and every member of the Board of Directors that I will work diligently to motivate, coach and lead our staff to deliver at the level of excellence Alpha expects. I am excited to help execute our shared vision to Elevate Alpha by increasing the support we provide to
brothers and the impact we collectively make in our communities.” Brother McCaskill attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) on a football scholarship where he was a four-year letterman in football and two-year letterman in track and field. Upon completing his undergraduate studies, he remained at IUP and earned his master’s degree in Sociology. As a result, he has successfully worked in the social service field for more than 20 years and has gained an even further wealth of knowledge and experience in providing individual and family therapy, treatment plan design, prevention, team building and organizational leadership development. “As a former Eastern Regional Vice President, I am sure that Brother McCaskill is up for the task as Interim Executive Director,” said Brother Dennis Kemp, 25th Eastern Regional Vice President. “I feel confident that he will do a good job.” Brother Robert “Bob” Willis, the 20th Southern Regional Vice President, echoed Brother Kemp’s sentiments. “I think we are very fortunate to have a person as qualified as Brother McCaskill to serve as the Interim Executive Director,” said Brother Willis. “He did a good job as Eastern Regional Vice President and the staff at the General Office can count on his knowledge of the fraternity.” FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 17, 2021 Contact: Colin Campbell, Ph.D., Director of Marketing & Communications colincampbell@apa1906.net (443) 467-6011
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Congratulations
Brother Major General William J. Walker Theta Psi Lambda '85
By Paul Sonne, Marianna Sotomayor and Aaron C. Davis March 26, 2021 at 2:12 p.m. EDT Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) has tapped the commander of the D.C. National Guard to become the next House sergeant-at-arms, selecting the first African American for the post that is responsible for the chamber’s safety, as Congress overhauls its security arrangements in the wake of the Capitol riot. Pelosi asked Maj. Gen. William J. Walker to take the job in recent days, according to people familiar with the discussions. The previous holder resigned in the wake of the insurrection on Jan. 6, which saw proTrump rioters storm the Capitol complex and threaten
lawmakers in one of the nation’s biggest security failures since the 9/11 attacks. Walker, a former special agent and top career official at the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, as well as a longtime Guardsman, was leading the D.C. Guard during those events, and has since criticized the Pentagon’s leadership for restricting his powers ahead of the event and taking too long to allow him to send available Guardsmen to the Capitol. He said the delay left him “stunned.” Top Defense Department officials have denied those accusations, saying they moved as quickly as possible, continued on next page MU LAMBDA TORCH 2021
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---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------given that the Capitol Police, the force responsible for securing Congress, had not asked the military to prepare a backup force in advance. Walker’s statements in the days since the riot have rankled the Pentagon leadership but have earned him respect among many Capitol Hill lawmakers. In addition to criticizing the restrictions placed on him and the leadership’s reaction time, Walker said during his March 3 testimony that top Army generals had raised concerns about the “optics” of National Guard forces arriving at the Capitol after Capitol Police made an urgent request for help on Jan. 6. In a statement on Friday, Pelosi said Walker’s experience would be an “important asset” to the House in light of the Jan. 6 attack, and noted that the House must “strengthen our institution and keep our Capitol community, and all who visit, safe.” “Throughout his long, dedicated career in public service, General William Walker has proven to be a leader of great integrity and experience who will bring his steady and patriotic leadership to this vital role,” Pelosi added. “His historic appointment as the first Black American to serve as Sergeant-at-Arms is an important step forward for this institution and our nation.” In a statement, Walker said he was “honored and excited for the opportunity to continue to serve this great nation.” An experienced officer who has deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, Walker is a registered Republican, according to voter registration records reviewed by The Washington Post. He was selected to lead the D.C. Guard by President Donald Trump, who ousted Walker’s predecessor. Trump installed Walker at 12:01 p.m. on Inauguration Day in 2017 — changing leadership in the middle of an event deemed a national special security event, and when more than 5,000 troops from dozens of states were in the Capitol under his predecessor’s command. Unlike in the 50 states, where governors control the Guard, the D.C. National Guard answers to the president, who delegates command control to the Army and defense secretaries. President Biden will be responsible for appointing Walker’s replacement. Walker was commanding the D.C. Guard during the federal government’s response to unrest in the District last June after the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis police custody. The use of the military during that response drew complaints from D.C. officials who viewed the reaction as running roughshod over the District.Two helicopters from the D.C. Guard also descended upon protesters in what was seen as an unnecessary use of military tactics against peaceful civilians. The incident is the subject of a Defense Department Inspector General investigation, the results of which have yet to be released. Walker said during
the March 3 hearing that a subordinate officer gave the orders regarding the helicopters, but he said, as commander of the D.C. Guard, responsibility was “ultimately still me.” Pentagon leaders carried out Trump’s wishes to militarize the area around the White House by inviting nearly 4,000 members of the Guard from states outside the District to fall under the D.C. Guard’s command and help clamp down on protesters. The maneuver was unprecedented, drawing on an obscure law changed after 9/11 that allows governors to voluntarily send Guardsmen across state lines for counterterrorism missions. It had never been used to amass troops for a potential clash with civilian protesters. Installing Walker in the job could signal that congressional leaders intend to rely more heavily on National Guard soldiers to augment security at the U.S. Capitol — possibly for years to come. A review of security operations initiated by Pelosi, and led by retired Army Lt. Gen. Russel Honoré, has recommended that Capitol Police respond to Jan. 6 by hiring nearly 900 additional officers, as well as undertaking other physical security enhancements. Officials briefed on the still ongoing drawdown of National Guard soldiers say that Walker has been an ally of Capitol Police requests to have additional Guard soldiers at the Capitol while the police force can be bolstered, and possibly more regularly after that to prepare for special events. If confirmed by a majority of the House, Walker will be tasked with all security and logistical planning of the House chamber, its wing of the Capitol and all associated office buildings. A senior Democratic congressional aide, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal dynamics, said the leadership expects Walker to be voted into the position. The Senate swore in its new law enforcement leadership team Monday, which is made up of all women for the first time in its history. Karen Gibson, a retired Army lieutenant general who served as director of intelligence for U.S. Central Command, became the Senate’s sergeant-at-arms. Gibson had worked with Honoré on making recommendations for future security arrangements in the wake of the riot. Walker will be tasked with Honoré’s report and making implementations where he can, according to the senior aide. Many of the recommendations fall on the Capitol Police, however, and require legislative funding, changes that committees need to consider before a floor vote, the aide said. Link: https://www.washingtonpost.com/ national-security/capitol-riot-walker-nationalguard/2021/03/26/acd08b20-8e47-11eb-aff64f720ca2d479_story.html
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Georgia Lawmaker Charged With Felony For Knocking On Gov. Brian Kemp’s Office Door Nick Visser Senior Reporter, HuffPost Thu, March 25, 2021, 10:07 PM Georgia state Rep. Park Cannon (D) was arrested and charged with felony obstruction on Thursday night after she protested the signing of a restrictive new bill that will dramatically limit access to voting for communities of color. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution first reported that Cannon, a Black woman who has served in the Georgia House of Representatives since 2016, was detained by Georgia State Patrol officers after she attempted to witness the signing of the law. The Republican-led Georgia legislature passed the measure on Thursday, which will impose new identification requirements on those who vote by mail, limit the use of drop boxes for absentee ballots and make it illegal for voting groups to give food or water to people standing in line to cast their ballots. Clips from a live-streamed video show Cannon knocking on the door of Gov. Brian Kemp’s (R) office after speaking with Georgia State Patrol officers. The officers then place her under arrest. Cannon said late Thursday she had been released from jail, adding she was “not the first Georgian to be arrested for fighting voter suppression.” “I’d love to say I’m the last, but we know that isn’t true,” Cannon wrote on Twitter. “But someday soon that last person will step out of jail for the last time and breathe a first breath knowing that no one will be jailed again for fighting for the right to vote.” In a statement, the Georgia State Patrol said Cannon was “beating on the door” to the governor’s office and had been warned several times that she should stop. “She was advised that she was disturbing what was going on inside and if she did not stop, she would be placed under arrest,” the agency said in a statement. Cannon was arrested and taken to Fulton County Jail, where she was charged with two offenses: felony obstruction of law enforcement and a misdemeanor of preventing or disrupting General Assembly sessions or other meetings of members. “She was doing her job as an elected official,” state Rep. Erica Thomas (D)
told the Journal-Constitution after the arrest. “She was asking where the governor was and where the bill was being signed.” Fair Fight Action, the voting rights group founded by former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams, said the day was a reminder of the state’s “dark past.” Link: https://news.yahoo.com/rep-park-cannonarrested-020742504.html
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Can Democrats end the decades-long impasse on gun control? Mike Bebernes Senior Editor Thu, March 25, 2021, 10:37 AM What’s happening The recent mass shootings in Boulder, Colo., and the Atlanta area that led to a total of 18 deaths have reignited the debate over gun control in Washington. President Biden on Tuesday called for Congress to pass an assault weapons ban, a ban on high-capacity magazines and the elimination of loopholes in background checks for gun purchases. “This is not and should not be a partisan issue. This is an American issue. It will save lives. American lives. And we have to act,” he said. Biden’s comments, along with similar statements from other prominent Democrats, carried a familiar message to the one pushed by gun control advocates after each mass shooting. The United States has by far the highest rate of gun deaths of any developed nation — 41,000 in 2020 alone — but Congress hasn’t passed any meaningful restrictions on gun ownership in more than 25 years. As popular as many gun control proposals are with the public, attempts to enact them have consistently
stalled amid fervent political opposition from Republicans and a lack of unified support among Democrats. Earlier this month, the House of Representatives passed two bills that would expand background check requirements for gun sales, a provision that is supported by 92 percent of voters. The bills seem to have slim odds of advancing through the Senate, however. Republicans appear unified in opposition, meaning all 50 Democrats would have to vote to eliminate or amend the filibuster for the measures to pass. Moderate Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia, who has sponsored background check bills in the past, has said he opposes these specific bills because they go further than he would like. Why there’s debate Many political observers say the latest mass shootings are destined to spark the same cycle that has been repeated time and again in recent years in which impassioned pleas for gun control run up against political roadblocks and eventually fade without any changes happening. The fact that even modest reforms like background checks can’t advance shows that more ambitious plans like an assault weapons ban have next to zero chance, they argue. Others say it’s more likely that gun rights will actually be expanded in the near future by Republican state legislatures or the conservative majority on the Supreme Court. Despite all these factors, some gun control supporters see reasons for optimism. They argue that advocacy groups like Everytown for Gun Safety and March for Our Lives have gained considerable power in recent years continued on the next page
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---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------at the same time as the National Rifle Association, the country’s largest gun rights group, has faced allegations of corruption and a bankruptcy filing. Some experts say it’s possible that enough Republicans could be persuaded to support limited restrictions like a slimmed-down background check bill or “red flag” laws that bar certain people from buying a gun in specific circumstances. Others see opportunity for lawmakers to reduce the number of gun deaths without getting stuck in the same intractable cycle that has gone on for decades. Biden could make some changes to enforcement policies through executive action, for example. Another group believes that Democrats might find more bipartisan support for laws that focus on promoting gun safety and preventing the most common forms of gun deaths, such as suicides and handgun homicides, rather than mass shootings. What’s next Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has vowed to bring the two House background check bills to the floor for consideration, but a Republican filibuster could prevent the proposals from advancing to a final up-or-down vote. Perspectives There’s room for a less oppositional approach to reducing gun deaths “Frankly, liberal opposition to guns has often been ineffective, and sometimes counterproductive. … The left sometimes focuses on ‘gun control,’ which scares off gun owners and leads to more gun sales. A better framing is ‘gun safety’ or ‘reducing gun violence,’ and using auto safety as a model — constant efforts to make the products safer and to limit access by people who are most likely to misuse them.” — Nicholas Kristof, New York Times Democrats’ proposals wouldn’t make a significant impact even if they did pass “Progressives like to present themselves as data-driven pragmatists, but they are fixated on scary-looking black rifles that are as a matter of easily verifiable fact rarely used in homicides. … The stereotypical NRA member of the left-wing imagination (middle-aged, white, suburban or rural, conservative, bigoted, egg-bound) isn’t a public danger — he’s a cultural enemy, one who presses all sorts of aesthetic and social-status buttons.” — Kevin D. Williamson, National Review
“It will escape no one’s notice that the perpetually frustrated co-sponsor of the gun-show-loophole bill, Joe Manchin, is also one of two Senate Democrats publicly defending the filibuster. Maybe the new outrage will help move him off the dime.” — Ed Kilgore, New York Democrats know that they have no chance of advancing gun control “Mr. Schumer surely knows the bills have no chance to get 60 votes in the Senate. But holding the votes will please progressives, and if there’s new gun violence Democrats might benefit politically.” — Editorial, Wall Street Journal Democrats have shown they’ll use whatever means possible to force through their agenda “As we've seen with the COVID-19 emergency, Democrats are not going to waste an opportunity to strip away rights they find inconvenient.” — Nolan Finley, Detroit News The Supreme Court is likely to reject any substantial reforms “Former President Donald Trump campaigned as a staunch defender of Second Amendment rights, and it would not be surprising, to say the least, if the three justices he appointed to the high court share that view to some extent.” — Editorial, Orange County Register The NRA’s troubles create room to change the political calculus “There are some things that are different that may give reform advocates some reason for optimism. The NRA, which has opposed reforms in the past, is in a weakened state, mired in bankruptcy, lawsuits, and investigations.” — Sean Collins, Vox The political momentum is shifting in favor of gun control “Covering this closely, I see the public and the media really has this notion that it’s hopeless, it’s going nowhere. Where I’ve been observing the opposite. It’s been bubbling up and really that political playing field has completely shifted.” — “Columbine” and “Parkland” author Dave Cullen to CNN
The cycle of failure on gun control shows no sign of ending “We mourn, we are furious, we wonder about motivations and then it happens again. And again. And again. We live through horror after horror and little changes.” — Helaine Olen, Washington Post
Democrats aren’t committed enough to gun reform to get it done “Absent [a] change in heart, all gun legislation will be doomed — not just background checks but the rest of the proposals for Congress that President Biden ran on, including a new assault weapons ban, a ban on online gun and parts sales, and the repeal of the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act, which shields gun manufacturers from lawsuits over the use of their guns in criminal activity.” — Osita Nwanevu, New Republic
The background check bill may be that thing breaks the filibuster
Link: https://news.yahoo.com/can-democrats-end-thedecades-long-impasse-on-gun-control-143755079.html MU LAMBDA TORCH 2021
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Armed White men who showed up at a Black family's home were acquitted. Now, they want an apology By Eliott C. McLaughlin, CNN Updated 6:18 AM ET, Sat March 27, 2021
(CNN) An African American mother says she won’t sit down to talk with two men who came armed with about 13 other White people to her North Carolina home last year looking for a missing teenage girl -- and she doesn’t care that a court acquitted them. Still, lawyers for the two men say they not only want the families to come together and sort out what they believe is a misunderstanding, but their clients also want an apology from Monica Shepard and her teen son, Dameon, as well as from their family’s lawyers, for comments they feel painted their clients as racists. A “Kumbaya” moment seems unlikely. As the criminal cases against Jordan Kita and Austin Wood unfolded, the Shepards filed a civil lawsuit likening the group to Ku Klux Klan night riders and demanding, among other relief, more than $25,000 in damages, legal fees and “training concerning the history of racism and mob violence” for those who came to their home in May. The case’s developments highlight the canyon between perceptions in an incident that reminded many of the nation’s troubling history on race relations. Following the May 3 encounter in Pender County, a short drive northeast of Wilmington, many tuning in to the story labeled the White men bigots, the mob racially driven. Neither was true, the attorneys say, and they blame the Shepards and their legal team for perpetuating that perception.The attorneys acknowledge that their clients, Kita and Wood, were armed, that Kita was wearing his law enforcement uniform outside his jurisdiction and the pair were among 15 people who went
to the wrong home in the middle of the night wanting to know the whereabouts of a missing girl. They’re also aware of the history of racially charged mob violence in the South, but the lawyers told CNN that the facts show the group’s actions were merely the product of concern for the missing girl -- and the Shepards should apologize now that the details have emerged. Neighbors and police gather after the group arrived at the Shepards’ home in Pender County on May 3. Yet Monica Shepard remains unmoved by pleas the episode was a reconcilable misunderstanding. The Shepards’ lawsuit -- filed by the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law in January, before state Judge Chad Hogston acquitted the two men -- accuses “the mob” of trespassing, brandishing weapons and harassing and intimidating the Shepards. A news release alleges the group “committed racialized terror when they approached and menaced a Black family in their North Carolina home.” “I’ve said this before: It’s about accountability,” the mother told CNN. “You can’t just form a mob and go around being vigilante citizens. There’s laws against that. I’m not interested in sitting down. It’s all about accountability at the end of the day.” Online tip led to Shepard’s neighborhood, lawyer says Kita was a deputy with the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office. Wood was his neighbor. Hogston acquitted both men February 18, following a trial that spanned more than 10 hours and 14 witnesses, said Wood’s attorney, Woody White. Wood had been charged with going armed to the terror of the public. Kita was fired after being charged with forcible trespass, breaking and entering and willful failure to discharge duties. The pair teamed up May 3 after Kita’s sister -- a cousin whom his parents reared and whom he considers a sibling -vanished. The biracial 15-year-old was troubled, possibly suicidal, and the Kitas, including dad Timothy and mom Mary, were frantically searching for her, family attorney James Rutherford said. Despite being out of his jurisdiction, Kita wore his New Hanover County deputy’s uniform and firearm during the visit to the Shepards’ home around 10 p.m. Pender County authorities, including at least three law enforcement officers and an off-duty fireman who deployed a drone, joined the effort, which moved from a wooded area to a nearby subdivision, Rutherford said. When a 10-year-old heard on a chat in the online game, Fortnite, that the girl might be at a boy’s home in Pender County’s Avendale neighborhood, the group headed for the middle-class, mostly White enclave where the Shepards live, the lawyer said. Though they were at the wrong house, Kita and Wood didn’t know the Shepards’ race before approaching the door, White said. Read more about this story at https://www.cnn. com/2021/03/27/us/north-carolina-mob-demand-apology-dameon-shepard/index.html MU LAMBDA TORCH 2021
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Mission
House of Ruth empowers women, children and families to rebuild their lives and heal from trauma, abuse and homelessness.
Vision: Much More Than Housing
House of Ruth offers comprehensive support for women, children and families. Our continuum of services encompasses enriched housing for families and single women, trauma-informed daycare for children, and free counseling to empower anyone, regardless of gender, who is a survivor of trauma and abuse. Our programs provide individualized support to rebuild safe, independent, and sustainable lives.
https://houseofruth.org MU LAMBDA TORCH 2021
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The Jewels’ Lounge Mu Lambda Chapter Jewels’ Lounge Welcome to the Jewels’ Lounge where brothers gather, sit amongst the Jewels and reflect upon life in Alpha.
Jewel Callis
Jewel Jones
Jewel Murray
It is a place that allow brothers the opportunity to relax, read The Torch, Sphinx, history book and/or engage in that good ole ALPHA SPIRIT. Brother Silas Woods, III, Historian Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
Jewel Kelley
Jewel Tandy
Jewel Chapman
Jewel Ogle
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Greeting Brothers,
Volume I
Lesson
The 2019-2021 fraternal year was dedicated to rediscovering our brotherhood. We serve the community, but we have been neglecting our bond of brotherhood.
Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter
The Origin of Alpha Phi Alpha The Period of Consolidation The First Steps in Expansion Local and National Strivings Permanent Foundations Expansion and Internal Development The Leaven of Self-Examination The War Interlude A Definite Program The Crowning Years Advancement in Spite of the Depression The Widening Social Program Education and War A Militant Liberalism The Concept of Progress The Golden Anniversary Shaping the Future on the Basis of the Past The Continuing Challenge New Goals for Old Social Purpose and Social Action
Since Tuesday, April 21, 2020, Mu Lambda hosted the Mu Lambda Literary Society, every week at 7:00 pm. The Mu Lambda Literary Society is a Mu Lambda initiative, where we come together as brothers and discuss the two volume Alpha history book over a period of months. It was facilitated by a different brother each week. Brothers participated via Zoom. We started with volume 1, chapter 1 of the twenty second printing of the history book and conclude with volume 2, chapter 8. There are twenty chapters in volume 1 and eight chapters in volume 2.
I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X XI XII XIII XIV XV XVI XVII XVIII XIX XX
It was totally voluntary. You were not required to purchase the new history book. Brother Robert L. Harris, Volume II Jr. our National Historian and author of Volume II participated in the sessions. Chapter I Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter
II III IV V
Chapter VI Chapter VII Chapter VIII
Lesson Back to Basics Achieving Tomorrow: An Agenda for the 80’s Strengthening Internal Capacity for Greater Service Facing Our Future with a Future The Alpha Renaissance: Rekindling the Spirit of Leadership and Community Service Vision 2000: The Light of a New Day Alpha Attitude: A Forward Step… Into the Future A Solid Foundation for the New Era of Alpha
Fraternally, John Wilson, President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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Sweet potato fish cakes with Japanese-style slaw • 750g whole sweet potato, peeled • 1kg skinless snapper fillets, pin-boned, cut into 2cm pieces • 3 spring onions, 2 finely chopped, 1 shredded • Sunflower oil, to shallow-fry • 100g daikon, shredded • 1/4 savoy cabbage, shredded • 2 small avocados, cut into thick wedges • Mint leaves, coriander leaves and pickled ginger, to serve GINGER & SOY DRESSING • 2 tbs light soy sauce • 2 tbs pickled ginger juice (from jarred pickled ginger) • 2 tsp sesame oil SESAME FURIKAKE • 2 nori sheets, crumbled • 1/2 tsp sesame oil • 2 tsp toasted white sesame seeds 1. To make the fish cakes, prick sweet potato all over with a fork and enclose in plastic wrap. Microwave
2.
3. 4.
5.
6.
7.
on high, turning halfway, for 12 minutes or until tender. Coarsely mash with a fork, spread onto a tray and freeze for 20 minutes or until completely cooled. Place fish and 1 tsp salt flakes in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Add sweet potato and finely chopped spring onion, then pulse to combine. Shape 1/3 cup (85g) sweet potato mixture into 7cm rounds, transfer to a tray and chill until needed (fish cakes can be stored, frozen between sheets of baking paper in an airtight container, for up to 3 months). For the ginger and soy dressing, whisk ingredients in a bowl until combined (dressing can be stored, chilled in an airtight container, for up to 3 weeks). For the sesame furikake, combine all ingredients in a bowl (sesame furikake can be stored, at room temperature in an airtight container, for up to 1 month). When ready to serve, heat 2cm oil in a frypan over medium-high heat. In batches, cook fish cakes for 3 minutes each side or until cooked through. Remove with a spatula and drain on paper towel for 2 minutes. To make the Japanese-style slaw, toss shredded spring onion, daikon, savoy cabbage, avocado, herbs, ginger and half the sesame furikake in a bowl. Arrange fish cakes on a serving platter with salad and dressing alongside. Sprinkle fish cakes with salt flakes and remaining sesame furikake to serve.
Brother Derrick A. Butts
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Orange Fluff Cake INGREDIENTS: • 1 ½ cups sifted cake flour • ½ cup white sugar • 2 teaspoons baking powder • ½ teaspoon salt • 5 tablespoons butter, melted • cup fresh orange juice • 1 teaspoon grated orange zest • 6 egg yolks • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 6 egg whites • ½ teaspoon cream of tartar • ½ cup white sugar • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar • 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice • 2 teaspoons grated orange zest DIRECTIONS:
1. Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Have ready an ungreased 10-inch tube pan with a removable bottom. Don’t use a nonstick surface
pan. 2. Sift the flour, 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder and salt into a medium bowl. Form a well in the center and add the melted butter, 1/3 cup orange juice, 1 teaspoon orange zest, egg yolks and vanilla. Beat for 1 to 2 minutes with an electric mixer. 3. In a large glass or metal mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Fold 1/3 of the whites into the batter, then quickly fold in remaining whites until no streaks remain. 4. Pour batter into the ungreased tube pan. Bake for 60 to 75 minutes, until the top springs back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Immediately invert and let the cake hang upside down until completely cool. 5. Turn right side up and run a sharp knife around the edge to separate the cake from the pan. Remove sides. Run a knife around the center tube and under the cake; remove the pan bottom. Turn the cake right side up on a serving plate. 6. To make the glaze: In a small bowl combine the confectioner’s sugar, 2 tablespoons orange juice, and 2 teaspoons orange zest. Spread over the top of the cake, letting some drip down the sides. Let stand at room temperature until glaze has set about one hour.
Brother Garrett Miller
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Rosemary Passion Chilli
Sensuous with a slow build up and a hint of spice. The Rosemary Passion Chilli is made with Vodka, passionfruit puree and Tabasco. Sawant, also the bartender at Le Cafe says: “Our Rosemary Passion Chilli is a well-balanced cocktail with a sweet, spicy and sour flavour. Unlike the expected, every sip of this delightful elixir is a variation of sweet, spicy and herby. It always keeps you guessing and on your toes – you never know which hint of flavour you’re going to taste in the next sip!” Recipe Vodka – 50ml – – – – – – –
Rosemary Spring – 3 springs Passion fruit puree – 60ml Tabasco – 3 Drops Lime Juice – 15ml Muddle the rosemary and add everything in a shaker and shake with Ice Serve in a martini glass. Garnish the drink with a burnt rosemary spring.
Brother Kenneth Williams
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Contact us at ads@mulambda.org
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BROTHER
MALCOLM CARTER 6-B-87
OWNER & FRANCHISEE Domino’s Domino’s Domino’s Domino’s Domino’s Domino’s Domino’s Domino’s
Pizza-2950 Donnell Drive, District Heights, 20747 - 301-568-8883. Pizza-6254 Central Avenue, Seat Pleasant, MD 20743 - 301-333-5900. Pizza-4269 Branch Avenue, Temple Hills, MD - 301-839-0330. Pizza-6426 Branch Avenue, Temple Hills, MD - 301-449-3030. Pizza-9509 Livingston Road, Ft. Washington, MD - 301-248-3030. Pizza-10367 Southern Maryland Blvd, Dunkirk, MD - 410-286-0700. Pizza-14604 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD - 301-952-1133. Pizza-9546 Crain Highway, Upper Marlboro, MD - 301-599-4100.
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Everything Co-op, is a radio show that airs on WOL, Radio One’s premiere talk show station out of Washington, DC. The show features people who have influenced or participated in the advancement of the cooperative business model to change lives.
Hosted by Brother Vernon Oakes Listen every Thursday on WOL 1450AM or our website at http://everything.coop from 10:30am - 11am
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THE BORN ORIGINAL BRAND WWW.AKSTARAPPAREL.COM Join the family and get 10% off A Mu Lambda Face Mask (use the code: JOIN) Owner: Brother Kenneth Williams
Get your mask here!
https://www.akstarapparel.com/Accessories-c38266472 MU LAMBDA TORCH 2021
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Albert A. Williams
Realtor - D.C. & Maryland
EXIT First Realty 2139 Espey Court, Suite 1, Crofton, MD 21114 Bus: 301-352-8100 | Fax: 301-352-0700 | Cell: 202-210-1539 Email: aaaaAAwilliams@exitfirst.com
www.exitfirstrealty.com MU LAMBDA TORCH 2021
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Please Contact Brother Matt Aaron for Your Financial Planning Needs Matt Aaron, CFP® Aaron Financial 908-548-2745 Matthew.aaron.jr@nm.com Website: Aaronfinancial.nm.com Matt is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and the founder of Aaron Financial. Matt and his team provide a comprehensive financial planning experience to a diverse set of clients across the country. • • • • • • •
Budgeting Insurance Planning Investment Planning and Wealth Management Retirement Planning Education Planning Estate Planning Business & Employee Benefits
Matt holds a BBA from Howard University and has earned both a certificate in financial planning from Georgetown University and the prestigious CFP ® designation. Matt is a national spokesperson for the Certified Financial Planning Board.
Prostate Cancer a Family Affair Many of you are aware that I am a prostate cancer survivor. I know some of you have also traveled the journey. I was diagnosed and treated in 2016 and remain cancerfree. Thankfully my doctors caught it early before it had the opportunity to spread. I was vigilant well before my diagnosis with regular checkups mainly because my dad and uncle had previously been diagnosed. As men, and as black men in particular, we tend to wait much longer than we should to see the doctor. We all know brothers who have health challenges but put off making a call to the doctor. But cancer doesn’t wait.
My dad and I share our journey in our new book, Survivors’ Stories, Prostate Cancer, A Family Affair. Get more information on our journey and purchase the book at www.derrickbutts.com and then let’s talk. Speaking Engagements – I would be more than happy to schedule time to talk with your church, Men’s/Health group, and/or organization about being proactive with your prostate health and to share my journey. Please have them email me at info@derrickbutts. com to begin the discussion. Thank you Brothers for your support! Brother Derrick Butts
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Get the Mu Lambda Chapter App This official Mu Lambda Chapter App is for members of the chapter to find out about our events, chat with Chapter members, View Chapter Documents, View Chapter Directory, View our monthly magazine (The Torch) Pay Chapter Dues and much more. The ability to effectively communicate with Chapter members will help us continue to develop leaders, promote brotherhood and academic excellence while providing service and advocacy for our community.
Available for members only MU LAMBDA TORCH 2021
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Message from the Editor LET US RECITE THIS IN REMEMBRANCE OF BROTHER RUDY MCGANN
BY WILLIAM ERNEST HENLEY Out of the night that covers me, Black as the pit from pole to pole, I thank whatever gods may be For my unconquerable soul. BRO. KENNETH A. WILLIAMS EDITOR OF THE TORCH torch@mulambda.org ALPHA QUOTE TO SERVE BY... “THINK Alpha Phi Alpha, TALK Alpha Phi Alpha, PROMOTE Alpha Phi Alpha, and LABOR for the broad principles of idealism for which Alpha Phi Alpha was created, so that humanity shall look on us as a body worthwhile.”
In the fell clutch of circumstance I have not winced nor cried aloud. Under the bludgeonings of chance My head is bloody, but unbowed. Beyond this place of wrath and tears Looms but the Horror of the shade, And yet the menace of the years Finds and shall find me unafraid. It matters not how strait the gate, How charged with punishments the scroll, I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.
Brother Henry L. Dickason, 5th General President
GOOD WILL IS THE MONARCH OF THIS HOUSE COMMITTEES SHOULD SUBMIT ALL ARTICLES AND PICTURES TO THE TORCH EDITOR 5 DAYS AFTER THE CONCLUSION OF YOUR EVENT. BROTHERS SUBMITTING ARTICLES AND ADVERTISEMENTS SHOULD SUBMIT EVERYTHING BETWEEN THE 15TH AND 31ST OF THE MONTH. ARTICLES MUST BE SUBMITTED IN A WORD DOCUMENT FORMAT. PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL ARTICLES SUBMITTED ARE SUBJECT TO EDITING BY THE EDITOR. PLEASE ADHERE TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND SUBMIT YOUR INFORMATION TO TORCH@MULAMBDA.ORG
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THE TORCH ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
,
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
Esprit de Fraternite Brothers, It is that time of year again. The fraternity’s fraternal year runs January 1st to December 31st. Mu Lambda’s 2020-2021 fraternal year runs September 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021. The chapter does not meet during July and August. It is now time to pay your 202-2021 dues which will cover you from January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021. Ways to make payment: 1. 2. 3. 4.
You can pay your dues on mulambda.org by clicking the dues tab at the bottom left of every web page. Bring a check to the chapter meeting. You can pay on the Mu Lambda App Mail it to: Financial Team Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter 2405 First Street, NW Washington, DC 20001
Alpha
is a life long commitment
An Alpha Phi Alpha man’s attitude should not be “how much can I derive from the Fraternity” but “how much can I do for the Fraternity?” In proportion to what he does for his Chapter and for Alpha Phi Alpha will a member receive lasting benefits from the Fraternity to himself in the way of self-development by duty well done, and the respect of the Brothers well served. A member’s duties should be: 1. Prompt payment of all financial obligations, the prime requisite for successful fraternal life. 2. The doing of good scholastic work in his chosen vocation, thereby accomplishing the real end of a college course. 3. The reasonable endeavor to participate in general college activities and social service and to excel therein. 4. The proper consideration of all things with appropriate attention to the high moral standard of Alpha Phi Alpha.
Rest if you must, but don’t you quit.
