The TORCH - December 2020

DECEMBER 2020

THE

THE OFFICIAL NEWS SOURCE OF ------

FIRST OF ALL, SERVANTS OF ALL, WE SHALL TRANSCEND ALL

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

MU LAMBDA CHAPTER

HAPPY HOLIDAY’s From Our Mu Lambda Chapter

MU LAMBDA CHAPTER | 2405 FIRST STREET, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20001| MULAMBDA.ORG

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

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Rudolph Harris Curtis Hunigan Fred Valentine Horace Dawson, Jr. Paul Cotton A. Gilbert Douglas Ryland Harris Mark Jones Andre Lucas Kenneth Hobart Derrick Butts John Mark-Williams Jeremy Triplett Mikael LaRoche Joseph Housey, III Jason Clark

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Mark Ross Louis Ford James Heck Eddie Neal Gerard Williams Garrett Miller Adrian James O. Jackson Cole, Jr. Albert Williams Lucius Brown Marcel Desroches Kellen Moore Jamison Taylor, Jr. Mathew Aaron, Jr. Sean Perkins James Harmon

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Larry Ware Frank King Antonio King Rudolph McGann, Jr. Alvin Reaves, III Ryle Bell Drew Love Colin Campbell Bryant Young Arthur King Charvis Campbell LeRoy Lowery, III Joseph Paul Timothy Fitzgerald Jason Jefferson Samuel Armstrong

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

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In this Issue

Charter Members Past Presidents

Cover 1 Front Cover Picture by Names 2 In this Issue, Charter Members, Past Presidents 3 Executive Board, The Presidents’ Message 4 Committee Chairs, The Vice-Presidents’ Message 5 Hope for the Holidays! CFSA Toy Drive.

Giving Tuesday (S.O.M.E.) 6 Black Ice 7 MAAC Founder’s Day Program 8 Message from Health and Wellness Committee 9 Alpha Week Health and Wellnes Virtual Series 10 2020 Support Our Scholarship Campaign!

13 A covid-fighting tool is buried in your phone.

Turn it on 15 Message from House of Ruth Committee 16 Message from or Chaplin 21 Events, Thanksgiving Holiday Food Donations 22 The Jewel Lounge 23 Literary Society 24 Food, Dessert and Drink of the Month 25 Advertise with us 26 Domino’s 27 Everything Co-op Radio Show 28 AKSTAR Apparel 29 East State Street Band 30 Exit Realty: Brother Albert A. Williams 31 Financial Planning Needs Prostate Cancer a Family Affair 32 The New Mu Lambda Chapter App is Here 33 Chapter App by Publicall Telecommunications 34 Message from the Editor 35 Esprit de Fraternite

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 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

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* Omega Chapter Brothers Footnote (FN)

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Executive Board President John “Tony” Wilson Vice President Mikael LaRoche Recording Secretary Jason Jefferson Corresponding Secretary Samuel Armstrong Financial Secretary Vernon Oakes Treasurer Michael Young Chaplain William “Tony” Hawkins Historian Silas J Woods Archivist James Harmon Intake Coordinator Andre Lucas Assoc. Editor/Sphinx Kenneth A. Williams

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

MU LAMBDA CHAPTER

The President’s Message Greetings Brothers, Happy 114th Founder’s Day to my Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. I am always filled with pride and joy that I made the decision to seek membership in the greatest of all fraternities. And I continue to be humbled that I was given the opportunity to become a member and hopefully have earned the trust the Brothers placed in me to allow me to become a member.

I hope you Brothers feel the same. Make some time to celebrate with each other our most momentous of celebrations.

As the tumultuous year of 2020 draws to a close bring from it the knowledge and compassion that it has taught us and pulled from us about ourselves, family, nation and Brotherhood.

I wish I could say the start of 2021 will start off with wholly changed circumstances with the ending of 2020 but we know better. Yet I am optimistic that 2021 will be a better year.

In the meantime Brothers raise a glass to toast the founding of our illustrious Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc and ready ourselves for the coming year as our work continues for “…tired moments find me a delightful treat …”.

Brother John “Tony” Wilson, President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter

Dir. Ed. Activities Sean Perkins Sergeant-at-Arms Malcolm Carter Parliamentarian Gilbert Douglass Web Master Albert Williams Editor of the Torch Kenneth A. Williams Member at Large LeRoy Lowery III Risk Management Officer Mikael E. LaRoche Immediate Past President Eddie Neal

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

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Committee Chairs

The Vice President’s Message

Auditing Vacant

Greetings Brothers of Mu Lambda.

Brother’s Keeper Carlos DeBose Budget and Finance Vernon Oakes Communication and Technology Albert Williams Constitution Gilbert Douglas DC National Pan Hellenic Council Vacant Fundraising Vacant Golf Tournament Vacant Health & Wellness Alvin L. Reaves, III Membership Kobina Yanka Men Who Cook Garrett Miller Mu Lambda Chapter History Book Silas Woods III Nominating Vacant Programs Joseph Gibbs Public Policy Rudolph McGann Social Joseph Gibbs Community Service Samuel Armstrong Marketing/Promotion Committee Vacant

114 Years, In reflection of my 7 years as a member of this AMAZING fraternity and MIGHTY Chapter here in Washington D.C., I am compelled to start this month’s message with a debt of gratitude. As the global pandemic rages on, the future becomes shaped by our abilities to be dynamic. The last 7 years have defined a new generation in multiple ways, and has shaped me into the man I am today.

Firstly, I want to thank all of the brothers of the chapter who continue to work diligently to create “in a virtual world” a bond of camaraderie, brotherhood, and business. We all have grown familiar with our in person chapter meetings, huge events, galas, dinners etc. The world took a 360º turn at the beginning of this year and brothers have adapted to suit. From the previous administration’s perspective to the current, leadership has continued and the direction of the chapter has continued to move onward and upward toward the light of ALPHA! Each brother has an integral role to play in the movement of our ship and for this I am grateful that we are threading these deep seas and holding firm to our course.

Secondly, I would like to extend gratitude to all of the supporters of the chapter.

Mu Lambda always has a microscope being placed on the inner workings of this 97 year old monolith. For each partner, guest speaker, school, Alpha chapter, university, administrator, sorority, non-profit organization, business etc that we have partnered with over the last 7 years to continue to bring service and advocacy to our communities, I would like to extend my sincerest appreciation. The growth and sustainability of Mu Lambda is highly dependent on this external consortium.

Lastly, I would like to thank the executive board and leadership of the chapter for continuing to groom me into a valuable contributor to the successes of this chapter. I am as strong as each person. From the independent management of events, to the keen eye of brother Wilson as president, I am seeing testament of the phrase “IRON SHARPENS IRON”. I want to encourage each committee chairman to find substance in their efforts. I want to continue to support brother’s like brother Hawkins as we usher our brother’s and their families through trying times. This is hard work. But we will SEE IT THROUGH. On this Founders Day, I continue to reflect on my 7, hoping that I am blessed to double on this jewel year, and give 77 years of dutiful service to Alpha and this Chapter. I want to make a call out to the chapter for us to continue our own internal investment in growth. This call to action is for brothers who see themselves as future leaders, and holding roles within the chapter to step to the plate to shadow and work with the committees and members who are currently steering us ahead. Brothers, reflect on your journey, rededicate yourself to our mission and vision, and for 2020 continue to live your life shining in the Light of ALPHA. Brother Mikael LaRoche, Vice-President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

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Hope for the Holidays!

CFSA Toy Drive.

Drive.

Too many of our neighbors don't know where their next meal is coming from. One in six Washingtonians struggle to put food on the table--and as the city continues to battle COVID-19, the need in our community only grows.

This #GivingTuesday, we at SOME have a goal of raising $100,000 to make sure this very basic need is met for our hungry neighbors this winter. Your gift will ensure that anyone in need has a hot, nutritious meal or a grocery bag of essential items waiting for them at SOME. Today, your gift makes TWICE the impact, thanks to a generous donor who will match your gift dollar-fordollar!

Can you help end hunger in DC? Donate: https://www.some.org/give Child and Family Services Agency needs our help again with their toy drive. For the past seven years, we helped CFSA unload toys that were donated to them from community members for the children who are in the foster care system. Everyone is invited.

What: Community Service Toy Drive Where: Child and Family Service Agency (CFSA)

200 I ST. SE

Washington, DC 20003 When: Saturday, December 12, 2020

2:30 pm-4 pm

Contact Info: SOME (So Others Might Eat) 71 ‘O’ Street NW Washington, DC 20001 United States (202) 797-8806 www.some.org

Navy Yard Metro (Green Line) is the closest metro stop.

PLEASE WEAR YOUR MASK If you have any questions, please contact Bro. Tim Fitzgerald @ 301 332 7507 DECEMBER 2020 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5

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Message from the Health and Wellness Committee Greetings Brothers, I pray that this communication finds you all in great physical, mental, and spiritual health amid the continued public health crisis caused by the COVID19 pandemic. I also pray that you were able to safely enjoy a socially distanced, and likely virtual, Thanksgiving holiday with your family. Re-imagination has been central focus and theme for how we have conducted ourselves in our familial interactions, with the Brotherhood, in the ways we worship, and even on our jobs.

The Health and Wellness Committee successfully hosted our second virtual installment of “Let’s Talk Health and Wellness” on November 18, 2020. The month of November is sometimes referred to as Movember, in recognition of men being more vulnerable and comfortable with discussing men’s health related issues, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health, and being more proactive with them.

During this webinar, that was attended by almost 30 people, there were presentations given by Bro. Butts, President of Prostate Cancer Awareness Alliance – DMV, discussing his personal journey and family story related to prostate cancer; Dr. Ross Krasnow, a Urologic Oncologist at MedStar Washington Hospital Center, spoke about testicular cancer; and Ms. Briana Henry, Community Outreach Specialist with the Utopian Institute, shared aspects related to trauma and men’s mental health. The discussions were enlightening and the subsequent questions and conversation from the attendees was engaging and fruitful.

This virtual platform for the Let’s Talk Health and Wellness is planned to occur every other month.

Though, the webinar did conflict with the Executive Board Meeting, the Health and Wellness Committee is grateful for the Brothers who were able to attend.

December is National Handwashing Awareness Week and is recognized the week of December 1-7, 2020.

During the early days of the pandemic, much attention was given to handwashing as one of the ways to help mitigate the transmission of the coronavirus along with social distancing. It would seem that this simple action of personal hygiene would come naturally to most.

However, it does not appear so.

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

MU LAMBDA CHAPTER

handwashing and other facts related to this important aspect of personal hygiene.

1. Do it right: Experts recommend washing your hands with soap and clean water for at least 20 seconds.

Be sure to get a good lather going and clean the back of the hands, between the fingers and under the nails. Dry them using a clean towel. There is a lot of science behind these recommendations, so be sure to follow them each time you wash your hands.

2. Memorize the five steps: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention calls hand washing "a doit-yourself vaccine" and suggests remembering five easy steps: Wet, lather, scrub, rinse, dry.

3. Learn the Four Principles of Hand Awareness: Endorsed by the American Medical Association and American Academy of Family Physicians, the four principles are: 1) Wash your hands when they are dirty and before eating; 2) Do not cough into hands; 3) Do not sneeze into hands; and 4) Don't put your fingers in your eyes, nose or mouth.

Additional facts about handwashing: 1. Handwashing equals happiness: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, handwashing can prevent 1 in 3 diarrhea-related illnesses and 1 in 5 infections, including the flu.

2. Beware the twin killers for kids: About 1.4 million children under age 5 die from diarrheal diseases and pneumonia — the two most deadly afflictions for children worldwide.

3. The dirty secret of public restrooms: The CDC also reports that only 31 percent of men and 65 percent of women washed their hands after using a public restroom.

4. Handwash your way to health: Using antibiotics creates antibiotic resistance. Handwashing prevents many sicknesses, so people need less antibiotics.

Therefore, less antibiotic resistance.

5. Sneezes are mini hurricanes: A typical human sneeze exits the body at about 200 miles per hour and emits around 40,000 droplets into the air.

On behalf of Bro. Butts and myself, we are wishing you and your families continued safety and health, as well as enduring God’s favor, during the pandemic and this Christmas season.

Fraternally, Bro. Alvin L. Reaves, III Chair, Health and Wellness Committee Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Mu Lambda chapater.

Below I have a shared information from www.nationaltoday.com about the importance of DECEMBER 2020 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

MU LAMBDA CHAPTER

Alpha Week Health and Wellness Virtual Series – Prostate Cancer during COVID

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Prostate Cancer Awareness Alliance – DMV was formed with a mission of advancing proactive prostate health awareness, education, and advocacy through grassroots efforts and collaboration. Even though we are in a COVID-19 pandemic, Brothers need to continue to be proactive and get checked to know their prostate specific antigen (PSA) numbers.

Please join Brothers from the DC Alpha chapters for this interactive discussion! (This event will be limited only to Alpha Brothers) Date:

Wednesday, December 2, 2020

Time: 7:06pm - 8:15pm (75min)

Location:

Zoom Meeting (Link will be sent to registered attendees, hours before the event)

We will discuss and learn about topics such as: • Effects of COVID-19 in the African American communities • Importance of being proactive with your prostate health during COVID • Prostate cancer is curable – Let’s review some options

Host/Moderator– Bro. Alvin Reaves. III, MD Adventist Health

Keynote SpeakerDr. Richard O. Kennedy (PCAADMV) Medstar Health

Cost: FREE – Brothers must register via Eventbrite to attend* Eventbrite:

http://healthtalkseries_AlphaweekDC_Dec2020.eventbrite.com

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

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2020 Support Our Scholarship Campaign!

The Alpha Wives of Washington, D.C. Present its Support Our Scholarship Virtual Program!

The Alpha Wives of Washington D.C. welcome you to its Support Our Scholarship Virtual Program.

Each year, the Alpha Wives provide scholarships to high school students graduating from D.C. Public Schools.

Normally, the Alpha Wives highlight the scholars at its Annual Scholarship Luncheon Game and Card Party, which serves as the organization’s primary fundraiser for scholarships. However, due to the national pandemic, this year, the Alpha Wives implemented the “Support Our Scholarship Campaign” in lieu of annual live event.

Yes, even during a pandemic, the Alpha Wives have continued a more than 50-year legacy of providing scholarships to minority students in the District of Columbia, which is highlighted in this Virtual Program.

We thank you for your support of this endeavor. Enjoy!

About the Alpha Wives The Alpha Wives of Washington, D.C. have been in existence since 1950. The organization's mission is to support the goals and projects of Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc., Mu Lambda Chapter, through political, civic, educational, cultural, and social activities. Its support to individuals and organizations involve the following: •

Civic: Provide financial and other support to daycare center for homeless children and their families (Bright Beginnings); provide financial support for homeless women (House of Ruth); provide support to Youth enrolled in regular and after school programs (The Bishop Walker School for Boys and The Fishing School); and provides assistance to nursing homes (Stoddard Baptist Home).

• Educational: Provide academic and book scholarships to freshman and continuing college students who are graduates of District of Columbia Schools. Implement informative programs on health care and estate and life planning.

• Cultural: Sponsor theater outings (Arena Stage), Lectures (Health Care Advocacy and Estate Planning), and art showings (handcrafted quilts, jewelry and other art forms).

• Social: Attend and support Alpha Wives events, including luncheons, tea and open houses, holiday parties; and support Mu Lambda events such as Black and Gold Ball (organized and sponsored auction to raise funds), Men Who Cook, and Mu Lambda’s Annual Congressional Black Caucus Reception.

About the Scholars Each year, the Alpha Wives provide scholarships to high school students graduating from D.C. Public Schools and continued this effort during the pandemic. This year the Alpha Wives proudly present three scholars who attended public school in the District of Columbia Continued on next page

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Ah’Niyah Moore is a graduate of Thurgood Marshall Public Charter School in the District of Columbia where she finished her high school career with one of the 10 highest grade point averages in her class. She received a $2,000 award and is attending Lincoln University with the goal of becoming a Social Worker or Attorney. Below is a personal statement written by Ms. Moore where she discusses “Redemption of My Identity.”

Heart racing, adrenaline running and spilling out of control. I can't stay still in this black chair with my legs shaking. Getting up, sitting down, walking around in this tight space, feeling like a bird locked in a cage. Anxiously waiting for the verdict, what will be the consequence?

Going over the last 30 minutes in my mind, thinking about the things that were said and done, Finally, the door opens, and I get called to receive my fate. A long reprimanding speech from the dean and a phone call home, then finally sent back to class. I was labeled as disrespectful, disruptive, and a burden to be around.

That is who I was, and that was the beginning of my journey to become a successful young black lady.

I came to the realization that those characteristics were not how l wanted to be identified. Now I’m sitting here thinking about what I may have done to put myself in this situation. I was younger and had not yet matured or learned how to effectively express myself. I was negligent in my ability to express my feelings without presenting the persona of an angry black youth. I was lost and in desperate need for patience and guidance.

The transition from middle school was drastic and definitely had an effect on how I was perceived by others. This was not something that came easy for me to understand and identify as a freshman in high school.

This was not the reality of my story. The reality consisted of phone calls home, punishment, and discouragement.

This transpired until the second semester of my sophomore year. Then one morning walking through the hallways with my normal anger and frustration, I saw my name in bold letters on my locker. A well put together card drowned out all the other commotion. I opened it to see a special invitation to a group called HBG: Happy Black Girl. This one purple and blue invitation with rhinestones and pretty words changed my life, and for once in a long time, I felt special. I was accepted.

It is now Thursday, and I cannot wait for dismissal from my last period. I keep looking at the clock. The hands seem to be moving in slow motion. I walk in the room and there are four other girls who I have seen around the

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school, but their faces had no names. However. they all have warm smiles and greeted me with respect. It was so abnormal to be around people without any evil intentions and who truly wanted happiness. So, I gave a shy smile and sat down. Little did I know what the future had planned; these random girls would become my lifelong sisters.

The purpose of every HBG meeting was to be around girls that accepted me for who I am and who were willing to help guide me to become the person I want to be.

“Sour Patch”. That was the name they gave me because they accepted my sass and the guard on my heart, but when you finally get past the sour, there is a sweet loving girl. We laughed, cried, argued, and experienced many things together over the years. These girls showed me that it is ok to trust, make mistakes, and ask for help.

Without them and being in this sisterhood, I would not be the young prospering lady I am today.

Now I am identified as a prosperous and determined scholar who sets the standards for my success. Even finding the identity I have now, I know there is still room for me to grow and alter my true identity. My goal now is to find the rest of myself in this college experience and grow into a young black successful woman that inspires others and provides guidance that could be life changing.

Siquan Robbins is a graduate of Friendship Technology Preparatory Academy in the District of Columbia where he finished his high school career with a 3.82 grade point average. He is the recipient of the Dr. Janette Hoston Harris Book Award in the amount of $500 and is attending Morehouse College with the goal of becoming a Marine Biologist. Below is a personal statement written by Mr. Robbins describing his career goal.

“Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.” But what happens when the water in which the fish resides is polluted? Not only can he not feed himself, but the generations that come after him cannot be sustained.

This is the reality I faced growing up in Southeast Washington DC. My name is Siquan Robbins, and the city is being affected by a major water crisis. Washington DC is home to the Anacostia River, an 8.4-mile long river that runs through the lower quadrants of the city. In the earlier years of the city’s foundation, the Anacostia River was Continued on next page

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THE TORCH -----------------------------------------------------------------------------the center of trade, markets, and fishing. Now, the Anacostia River has been graded a “D” in its water quality, and the water definitely shows it. This is part of the reason I am interested in becoming a Marine Biologist. My inspiration for marine biology began when I was 5 years old, and overtime it has become a significant aspiration in my life.

When I was younger, I noticed a piece of plastic floating in a nearby river, and I knew that things like that couldn’t continue to happen. I know it’s rare to hear that a young African American kid who lives in a single parent household, located in an impoverished neighborhood, is interested in being a scientist. But my passion to serve a greater cause and care for our oceans have helped me overcome every obstacle. I used my passion for marine biology to serve as a catalyst for my academic success, getting honor roll every year since 5th grade while taking dual enrollment courses and even taking multiple AP classes where I learned to create arguments that prepare you to advocate for clean water policies in underserved neighborhoods.

Later I then realized that marine biology and oceanography were also very important topics in our environment’s sustainability, and I began to find ways to create solutions for the problems my community is facing. For instance, in my 10th grade environmental science class, I created a filtration system that not only eliminates dirt and bacteria from a water source but even things like trash. Later, as a student of the Academy of Urban Ecology, I helped to create an aquaponics system within my school to fuel the growth of fresh and organic food. I believe caring more for our water systems and the life that inhabits it can greatly improve this planet's condition and also communities around the world, giving urban communities like mine more access to fresh public water sources. As a future Marine Biologist, I will ensure that I use my studies to find an effective solution to the pollution crisis that is affecting

our waterways. I will also apply my research not only to the cities and communities just like mine, but I will also explore ways to solve the global pollution crisis.

Jashawn Evans is a graduate of Frank Ballou Senior High School in the District of Columbia where he finished his high school career with a 3.5 grade point average, as an all-league baseball player, and the oldest of four children. He is the recipient of the first Dr. Rudolph Harris Book Award in the amount of $500, which is funded by Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He is attending Old Dominion University and wants to major in Chemical Engineering with the goal of becoming a Pharmaceutical Scientist. Below is a personal statement written by Mr. Evens of a life-changing event.

At 16, I remember sitting on the porch at my house. The weather was perfect. However, what was a blissful evening turned into a near-death experience. As I sat there, shots rang "bang! bang!". I looked down and realized I had been shot in the leg and later found out that I was caught in the middle of a drive-by shooting. The most unsettling aspect of it all was that I avoided trouble and dodged all of the negativity in my neighborhood. How did I (of all people) get shot? My life took a turn, immediately. Each time I approached my doorstep, the lingering bullet holes are there to greet me and present a constant reminder of what could have been the moment that placed my picture on a t-shirt. There aren't enough medications out there to numb the pain from the traumatic thoughts and the bullet fragments that are still in my leg.

Despite my experiences, I smile each day as I continue to reach milestones and goals that separate

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me from the calamity. By overcoming the challenge of violence in my surroundings, I have had the opportunity to reflect deeply upon my career path. With a vested interest in Chemical Engineering, I would like to make medicine that saves live, which is a need in my community, given the health disparities. As a result of science and medicine, people living in all communities, including distressed neighborhoods like mine, can recover from some of the most unexpected life-threatening events. Becoming a Pharmaceutical Scientist is an ambitious goal and will require hard work, but I am determined to excel.

Support Our Scholarship Campaign Donors The Alpha Wives of Washington, DC thank all who donated to the “Support Our Scholarship Campaign”. Your contributions will assist us in keeping our more than 50-year legacy of providing scholarships to minority students in the District of Columbia.

Mary Ann Armour Josephine Baker Dr. Ryle Bell Mrs. Magalene L. Bowling Nancy Browne Mrs. LaVera Burnim J’urel Caudle Mr. and Mrs. A. Gilbert Douglass Mrs. Debra Jones Flowers Gloria Grant Charlotte Hollomon Dr. Deanna Ford Horton Joseph Housey, III Modestine Lowery Ms. Addie L. Martin Claudia Postell, Esq. Judith Roberts Alice Scipio Mr. and Mrs. LeVert & Bonnie Seabron Mrs. Ernest P. Smith Mrs. Ann Cecile Tolliver Mr. and Mrs. Fred & Helena Valentine Martha Vaughan Tiara Williams Vivian Williams

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A covid-fighting tool is buried in your phone. Turn it on.

Millions of Americans now have access to free, anonymous coronavirus exposure notifications. Too bad so few people use them.

By Geoffrey A. Fowler Technology columnist Washington Post November 24, 2020 at 7:56 p.m. EST

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The alerts use software built by Apple and Google into iPhones and Android devices to detect when people (or the phones they’re holding) get into close contact with each other. That might sound like a privacy invasion, but they figured out how to track encounters between people in a way that’s anonymous — and doesn’t store your location — by using the Bluetooth wireless technology in phones.

Exposure alerts worked for the governor of Virginia, Ralph Northam. He and the first lady tested positive for the coronavirus in September, and because they had it working on their phones, staff members exposed to them got notified. And they’re picking up steam: In its first few weeks, Colorado’s system was activated by a million residents, or 17 percent of its population.

So why aren’t our phones a big part of America’s coronavirus response?

For starters, each state’s local health department has to develop and operate its own system (though they’ve recently begun making them work across borders).

Privacy concerns about similar-sounding — but actually very different — contact-tracing apps have needlessly scared people away. And frankly, Apple and Google buried the settings and apps you’ll need, bungling what could have been the year’s most-helpful tech launch.

You don’t have much to lose, so you might as well turn exposure alerts on. It takes less than five minutes to set up, and this guide will help.

How do I get coronavirus exposure alerts where I live?

As of Nov. 24, 16 U.S. states and territories, plus D.C., support coronavirus exposure alerts. For instructions, click on the link next to each region — that will take you to a website made by local health authorities:

Here’s a phone alert you wouldn’t want to miss: “You have likely been exposed.”

The coronavirus surge is upon us, and your phone might be able to help. About 100 million Americans now have the ability to get pop-up notifications from local health authorities when they’ve personally spent time near someone who later tested positive for the coronavirus. But exposure notifications only work if you and the people around you turn them on. Yes, you!

There’s early evidence this anonymous smartphone technology works — but so far isn’t helping very many Americans. In August, I wrote about the first of these state-sponsored alerts, Virginia’s Covidwise app. In the three months since, only 488 people have used the state’s app to send alerts about a positive diagnosis to others.

• Alabama: GuideSafe • Colorado: CO Exposure Notifications • Connecticut: Covid Alert CT • Delaware: Covid Alert DE • Guam: Guam Covid Alert App • Maryland: MD Covid Alert • Michigan: MI Covid Alert • Minnesota: COVIDaware MN • Nevada: Covid Trace • New Jersey: Covid Alert NJ • New York: Covid Alert NY • North Carolina: SlowCovidNC • North Dakota: Care19 Alert • Pennsylvania: Covid Alert PA • Virginia: Covidwise • Washington, D.C.: DC Can • Wyoming: Care19 Alert Continued on the next page

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THE TORCH -----------------------------------------------------------------------------And these states have either announced their intent to launch services or are running limited tests: • Arizona: CovidWatch at the University of Arizona • California: COVID Notify at University of California campuses • Hawaii: AlohaSafe Alert • Massachusetts • Oregon: Oregon Exposure Notification at Oregon State University • Washington I’ll update this list as more come online. Nations around the world are also using similar Bluetooth technology for notifications, including Switzerland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and England.

My state is not on that list. Can I get notified when exposure notifications become available?

Listen out for announcements from your local health department. If you have an iPhone, this might also help: Go to Settings, then Exposure Notifications and make sure Availability Alerts are turned on. States can use this system to push out notification to your phone when their systems go live. (This requires you to have location services turned on, so your phone can tell where you are.)

Do I need to download a separate coronavirus app?

That depends on where you live and what kind of phone you have. Most states have made their own exposure notification apps that walk you through the steps of turning on alerts and — should it be needed — entering in your own positive test result. In some other places, including Colorado, Maryland and D.C., there’s no app required for iPhones. Instead, you might get a push alert on your phone suggesting you turn on alerts, which is known as the “notifications express” system.

If you missed that, you’ll need to go to Settings, then scroll down to Exposure Notifications and turn them on. (This won’t work for all states.)

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

MU LAMBDA CHAPTER

On an iPhone, go to Settings and follow these steps to activate exposure alerts in places that don’t require a separate app. (If your state or territory does require an app, Apple will direct you to find it in the App Store.) If you’re using an Android phone, search for your state’s app in the Google Play Store. (Geoffrey Fowler/The Washington Post)

How do exposure notifications work?

You set it and forget it until you, or someone you’ve been around, gets a positive coronavirus test. That’s all you really need to know. Every once in a while you might get a notification just to remind you the system is still running.

Behind the scenes, your phone is constantly sending out little Bluetooth chirps. There’s not actually a sound, but the chirps contain an anonymous, constantly changing code that can be picked up by other phones you come near. The signals are also used to approximately measure distance. The stronger the Bluetooth chirp, the closer two phones are to each other. Your phone is also listening for the chirps coming from other phones, keeping a rolling 14-day log of all the phones you come near. You do have to leave Bluetooth turned on, at least when you’re around other people. Don’t worry. In my tests, all this chirping and listening isn’t much of an additional drain on your battery. But it does require you to leave your phone turned on to at least sleep mode.

How do you get alerts?

If you’ve had the alerts turned on and end up getting a positive test, you should tell your local health department. The authorities will give you a unique code, or key, to enter into your phone. Entering the code sends out a kind of bat signal, letting other phones know to check if, and how long, you were in contact. If there was close contact — usually within six feet for 15 minutes or more — then the phone will pop up an alert recommending a course of action, including getting a test. (Some systems, such as one being tested in Arizona, will let you know if you’ve had as little as five minutes of exposure.)

Which phones does it work with?

You’ll need a phone that can run recent software updates from Apple and Google that enable coronavirus notifications.

• For Apple iPhones: The iPhone 6S (from 2015) and newer will work, so long as it is running iOS 13.5 or newer.

• For Android phones: You’ll need Android version 6, which is supported on phones dating back to the Samsung Galaxy S5 (from 2014).

For more information on this article and the information provides goto: https://www.washingtonpost.com/ technology/2020/11/18/coronavirus-app-exposurealerts/

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

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Message from our Chaplin ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC.

Omega Chapter Thursday, November 19, 2020

Farewell dear

Brother Initiated Date: October 1, 1968 Initiated Chapter: Mu Lambda Chapter

Lee A. Tyler Brother Lee A. Tyler entered Omega Chapter on November 19, 2020 after contracting COVID-19. He was initiated in the Mu Lambda Chapter on October 1, 1968 and had completed 52 years in Alpha. Brother Tyler was 99 years old and was Life Member No. 2495. His daughters Nancy and Nicki informed us of his passing.

Obituary: https://www.marshallmarchfh.com/obituaries/Lee-Tyler/#!/PhotosVideos Services video: https://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/41325 See his 2019 write-up on the next page.

Farewell dear Brother

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

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Brother Lee Tyler 2019 interview reprinted

Mu Lambda’s Visit With Brother Lee Tyler Sunday, November 10th, Brother LeRoy Lowery and I visited with Brother Lee Tyler. Also, in attendance were Brother Tyler’s daughter, Nancy Tyler, and one of his masonic brothers.

Brother Tyler is 98 years of age, born Thursday, September 15, 1921. He was initiated through Mu Lambda Chapter, Tuesday, October 1, 1968. He has 51 years in the fraternity, is Life Member 2495 and continues to pay his dues to Mu Lambda.

He was the Dean of the Spring 1984 line - Wendel P. Gardner, Jr.; Jerry E. Hargrove, Jr.; Frederick W. Jones; William M. Joyner; Anthony Lee; LeRoy Lowery, III; and William R. Spaulding. He is a former WM of John F. Cook Lodge Number 10 where he remains financial.

Those in attendance at Mu Lambda’s 2018 Charter Day Brunch might recall Brother Tyler receiving his 50-year pin during the brunch. Brother Tyler is of sound mind and never complains. He receives a color hard copy of the Torch every month. It was an enjoyable Sunday, we arrived promptly at 1 pm, stayed about four hours watching football and chatting about old times in Mu Lambda. We laughed loud and often.

Brother Tyler is just one of our brothers 90 years of age or older. I have reached out to our Brothers’ Keeper Chair, Brother Carlos DeBose, seeking to have Brother Tyler and all of our 90 plus year of age

brothers (Walter Robinson, Sr.; Willie McGee; Arlester Brown; Kenneth Holbert; Horace Dawson, Jr.; Hezekiah Smith; Franklin De Laine Sr.; and Garnett Wood) in attendance at our December chapter meeting.

Fraternally, Brother Eddie Neal President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

MU LAMBDA CHAPTER

Message from our Chaplin ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC.

Omega Chapter Monday, November 23, 2020

Farewell dear

Brother Initiated Date: November 9, 1940 Initiated Chapter: Beta Chapter

Walter K. Robinson Brother Walter K. Robinson entered Omega Chapter on November 23, 2020.

He was initiated in the Beta Chapter on November 9, 1940 and had completed 80 years in Alpha. Brother Robinson was 100 years old when he passed. https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/tuskegee-airman-dies-on-100thbirthday/2487055/ See his 2019 interview on the next page.

Farewell dear Brother

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

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Brother Walter K. Robinson, Sr. 2019 interview reprinted

Brother Walter Kenneth Robinson, Sr. Documented Original Tuskegee Airman

Brother Robinson was born November 23, 1920 in Baltimore, Maryland to Dr. John C. Robinson, Sr. (Physician) and Clara Robinson (registered nurse). He had two siblings, John C. Robinson, Jr., five years his senior, and a sister who died at the age of nine. He married the former Edmonia Bailey and had one son, Walter Kenneth Robinson, Jr. He attended Howard University majoring in Political Science, pledged Beta Chapter the second semester of his freshman year in 1939 and crossed his sophomore year in 1940. He states there were nine brothers on his line, remembering Brother James Bowman as one of the nine. In addition, his biological brother, Brother John C. Robinson, Jr. was Beta’s president 1939, 1940 and 1941. After his sophomore year, he took the Airmen’s exam at Baltimore’s City Hall in 1940 and was inducted in 1943 as a Cadet. He states he had to wait until there was a class of 40 before he could attend.

He is a Documented Official Tuskegee Airman (DOTA) – one who trained at the facility. He has over 200 hours in single engine planes (PT-13, BT-6 and AT-6). He began training at Tuskegee Institute for Basic Ground School, and after three months, continued in Pre-Flight, Primary, Basic, and Advanced Flight. During Primary Training, he severed his Achilles tendon, requiring six surgeries and 352 days in the hospital. They discussed removing his leg at one point because the wound would not heal. One day his wife took a pair of tweezers and removed the sutures from his ankle which also removed the infection allowing his ankle to heal and returning him to full duty in February 1945, where he completed his training. While there, World War II ended and he left the military November 8, 1945.

After leaving the military he returned to Baltimore to his wife and took the police, fire and postal exam. He passed the postal exam and started as a Clerk in 1945, commuting from Baltimore to DC until 1959 when he moved to DC. He rose through the ranks as a Station Manager over 37 stations and second black Manager of Delivery and Collection for D.C. before retiring from the Postal Service in 1981.

He attributes his good health at age 98 to his rigorous military training where he ran five miles a day.

Brother Neal - What was the word they used to describe your race?

Brother Robinson - Colored. Black did not come until the 1950’s. Bowie Race Track as recent as the 1970s still had colored and whites on the water fountain.

Brother Neal - How did you hear the war had ended?

Brother Robinson - My mother called and told me.

Brother Neal - Why did you go to work for the Postal Service instead of working for a major airline?

Brother Robinson - Airlines were not hiring black pilots at the time. The Postal Service paid higher salaries than most jobs. The salary was higher for a postal employee than what teachers made. I commuted from Baltimore until 1959. I paid $5 per week for a pass that allowed unlimited travel from Baltimore to D.C. It was extra to travel on weekends.

Brother Neal - Did you use the Negro Motorist Green Book during your times of travel?

Brother Robinson - No. I didn’t know about that guide.

I would call the Afro American and Pittsburgh Courier and they would give me a list of hotels to stay.

Brother Neal - Since you and Brother Charles E. McGhee (Iota Upsilon Lambda) were both Alpha men, how was the interaction?

Brother Robinson - Brother McGhee is a very nice and energetic brother. I didn’t know him at the time.

We met when we both joined the East Coast Chapter Tuskegee Airmen.

Brother Neal - What special information would you like to share with the brothers?

Brother Robinson - I thank Brother Gilbert Douglass for bringing me to Mu Lambda. I don’t get out much anymore. I am a member of the East Coast Chapter Tuskegee Airmen Speaker’s Bureau. Our programs include the Youth in Aviation Program that I would like you to advertise with the brothers.

Tuskegee Airmen refers to the men and women who were involved in the “Tuskegee Experience,” the Army Air Corps program to train African Americans to fly and maintain combat aircraft. The Tuskegee Airmen included pilots, navigators, bombardiers, maintenance and support staff, instructors, and all the personnel who kept the planes in the air. We had white instructors until the guys from the 99th came back and became our instructors.

These are the notes from a telephone interview conducted Wednesday, January 30, 2019. Check out Brother Robinson’s YouTube video at: https://youtu.be/ZI6L2w9kK1c Fraternally, Brother Eddie Neal, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter

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Alphaman David Dinkins, NYC’s first black mayor, pass away at 93

Farewell dear Brother

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

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Message from the House of Ruth Committee

Brother Garrett Miller delivering food for the women at the House of Ruth in D.C. DECEMBER 2020 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

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Thanksgiving Holiday Food Donations Thursday, December 3rd Chapter meeting Friday, December 4th Alpha Phi Alpha turns 114 Sunday, December 6th House of Ruth (Alvin Reaves’ team) Thursday, December 10th Health and Wellness committee meeting (conference call) Saturday, December 12th CFSA Toy Drive Wednesday, December 16th Executive Board Meeting Thursday, December 17th Mu Lambda Foundation meeting Friday, December 18t Deliver holiday baskets to CFSA families Sunday, December 20th Beta Chapter turns 113 Monday,December 21st Education Committee meeting Friday, December 25th Merry Christmas

David N. Gaston Ronald S. Flowers James F. McDonald Lavert C. Seabron Rawn M. James Brett M. Hood Sylvester C. Booker Vernon Oakes

December 2 December 3 December 6 December 7 December 10 December 13 December 14 December 18

Happy Birthday Mark A. Ross Ryle Bell Rylan R. Harris William D. Thomas Kenneth A. Williams Kenneth F. Holbert James E. Harmon, III Marcel J. Desroches, Jr. Jimmy L. Floyd Louis A. Ford James R. Haynes Darrell M. Chase Jeremy Triplett Colin H. Campbell Kelvin E. Brown

December 4 December 5 December 6 December 11 December 12 December 13 December 15 December 17 December 18 December 19 December 21 December 22 December 22 December 25 December 31

Fraternally, Thomas Davis MAAC Executive Director

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

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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

DECEMBER 2020 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

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Greeting Brothers,

Volume I

Lesson

The 2019-2020 fraternal year has been 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 21st, Mu Lambda has 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 will be facilitated by a different brother each week.

Brothers can participate via Zoom.

We will start 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

This is totally voluntary. If you are interested, participate for the weeks that you can. You are not required to purchase the new history book. Brother Robert L. Harris, Volume II Jr. our National Historian and author of Volume II is Chapter I participating in the sessions.

Chapter II Chapter III Chapter IV Chapter V Chapter VI Chapter VII Chapter VIII

Date Apr 21 Apr 28 Apr 28 May 5 May 5 May 12 May 19 May 26 Jun 2 Jun 9 Jun 16 Jun 23 Jun 30 Jul 7 Jul 14 Jul 21 Jul 28 Aug 4 Aug 11 Aug 11

Lesson

Date

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

Aug 18 Aug 25 Sept 1 Sept 8 Sept 15 Sept 22 Sept 29 Oct 6

Fraternally, John Wilson, President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter

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Sweet-and-Smoky Cedar-Planked Salmon

INGREDIENTS • 2 tbsp. light brown sugar • 2 tsp. smoked paprika • 1 tsp. grated lemon zest • Kosher salt • Freshly ground black pepper • 1 2 1/2-pound skin-on salmon DIRECTIONS 1. Soak a large cedar grilling plank (about 15 inches by 7 inches) in water, 1 to 2 hours.

2. Heat grill to medium. Combine sugar, paprika, lemon zest, and 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper in a bowl. Season salmon with salt and rub spice mixture all over Kesh side.

3. Place salmon on soaked plank, skin side down. Grill, covered, to desired doneness, 25 to 28 minutes for medium.

cup bundt pan with cooking spray.

2. Beat brown sugar, Stevia in the Raw, oil and eggs until combined. Beat in pumpkin.

3. Add flour, pumpkin pie spice and baking powder; beat on LOW just until mixed.

Pour into prepared pan.

4. Bake 60 to 70 minutes until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

5. Let stand 15 minutes.

6. Run knife around sides of pan to loosen cake; remove from pan to wire rack. Cool completely, about 1 hour.

7. Meanwhile, combine caramel and bourbon in a small bowl. Drizzle over cooled cake and sprinkle with pecans.

Brother Garrett Miller

Grinch Cocktail Recipe - A Perfect Homage To Our Favorite Mean One

Brother Derrick A. Butts

Bourbon-Spiked Pumpkin Pecan Bundt Cake

INGREDIENTS: CAKE • 1 cup brown sugar • ½ cup Stevia in the Raw • 1 cup canola oil • 3 large eggs • 1 (15 ounce) can 100% pure pumpkin puree • 3 cups all-purpose flour • 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice • 2 teaspoons baking powder • Sauce: • 1 cup caramel ice cream topping • 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey or apple juice • ½ cup chopped pecans Directions 1. Heat oven to 325 degrees F. Spray 12-

8 ingredients Condiments 1 Simple syrup Baking & Spices 1 Sanding sugar, Green Drinks 1 splash Ginger ale 5 oz Pineapple juice Beer, Wine & Liquor 1/2 oz Cherry vodka 1/2 oz Coconut rum 1/2 oz Curacao, Blue Other 1/2 ounce Midori

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

MU LAMBDA CHAPTER

Grinch Jello Shots

INGREDIENTS • FOR THE LIME-SUGAR RIM • 2 tbsp. lime juice • 1/4 c. Red and green sanding sugar • FOR THE LIME JELL-O LAYER • 1 c. water • 1 packet lime Jell-o mix (3-oz.)

• 4 oz. vodka (or tequila), chilled • FOR THE STRAWBERRY JELL-O LAYER • 2 c. water, divided (place 1 c. in fridge to chill) • 1 packet strawberry Jell-o mix (3-oz.)

DIRECTIONS 1. Make the lime-sugar rim: Dip the rim of each shot glass into the lime juice, then press into the sanding sugar to fully coat. Set cups aside to dry.

2. Make the spiked lime Jell-o: Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Once bubbling, stir in packet of lime Jell-o mix, stirring until completely dissolved.

Turn off heat.

3. Pour in vodka or tequila (or whatever your preferred alcohol is), mixing until thoroughly combined. Pour into a large measuring cup, small pitcher or another glass so it’s easier to pour into the shot glasses.

4. Pour the lime Jell-o mixture into each of the shot glasses, filling them all two-thirds of the way up. Place the shot glasses into the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to set. (It’s okay if they’re not fully set, but they can’t be totally liquid when you start the next step.)

5. Make the strawberry Jell-o: Boil 1 cup water in a medium saucepan. Once bubbling, add the strawberry Jell-o mix, stirring until completely dissolved. Turn off heat, then add remaining cup cold water, stirring until combined.

6. Pour Jell-o into a measuring cup, or another easy-to-pour vessel, then fill each shot glass to just below the sanding sugar rim. (If the Jell-o hits the sugar rim, it will start melting the rim.)

7. Place Jell-o shots in the fridge for at least 1 hour to set. Serve cold, like the Grinch’s heart (pre-stealing-Christmas).

Brother Kenneth Williams

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

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Contact us at ads@mulambda.org

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

MU LAMBDA CHAPTER

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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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

MU LAMBDA CHAPTER

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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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

MU LAMBDA CHAPTER

THE BORN ORIGINAL BRAND WWW.AKSTARAPPAREL.COM

Join the family and get 10% off A Mu Lambda Face Scarf Cover (use the code: JOIN) Purchase Link: https://www.akstarapparel.com/Mu-Lambda-Face-Scarf-Cover-p203836125

Owner: Brother Kenneth Williams

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

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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 DECEMBER 2020 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 30

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

MU LAMBDA CHAPTER

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

DECEMBER 2020 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 31

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

MU LAMBDA CHAPTER

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 DECEMBER 2020 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 32

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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC

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Message from the Editor “DON’T QUIT” When things go wrong as they sometimes will, When the road you’re trudging seems all uphill, When the funds are low and the debts are high, And you want to weep but you have to sigh, When care is pressing you down a bit, Rest if you must, but don’t you quit.

Life is queer with its twists and turns As everyone of us sometimes learns, And many a failure turns about When he might have won had he stuck it out.

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.”

Brother Henry L. Dickason, 5th General President

Don’t give up though the pace seems slow You might succeed with another blow.

Oft the goal is nearer than It seems to a faint and faltering man, Often the struggler has given up When he might have captured the victor’s cup.

And he learned too late, as the night slipped down, How close he’d been to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out, The silver tint of the clouds of doubt; And you never can tell how close you are It may be near when it seems so far.

So stick to the fight when you’re hardest hit It’s when things seem worst that you must not quit.

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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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.