JANUARY 2020
THE
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
20 NO
BACKWARD
STEPS The Mu Lambda Torch January 2019 MU LAMBDA CHAPTER | 2405 FIRST STREET, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20001| MULAMBDA.ORG
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Front Cover Picture by Names 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16.
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
17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32.
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
33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. 44. 45. 46. 47. 48.
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
1 2 3 4 5 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
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* Jewel Robert Harold Ogle* Louis H. Russell* James N. Saunders* Emory B. Smith* Harold C. Stratton* J.H.N. Waring* Charles H. Wesley*
14 15 16 17 18 21 22 26 27 28 29 30 31 34 36 37 38 41 42 43 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 54 55 57 58 60 61 62 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75
Front Cover Picture by Names In this Issue, Charter Members, Past Presidents Executive Board, The Presidents’ Message Committee Chairs & The Vice Presidents’ Message Upcoming Events One Nine Reclamation Day Location Project Alpha Goto HS Goto College Beta/Mu Lambda Alpha Self-defense Hart Middle School Career & College Fair 88th Eastern Region Convention - Bermuda Message from the Membership & Reclamation Chair, Alphaversary and Birthday Reclamation Letter Hazing Allegations or Litigation Omega Chapter Brother Who Entered Omega Chapter in 2019 Message from the Alpha Wives Alpha Wives Holiday Party Mu Lambda’s Holiday Social Brother Walter Robinson 99th Birthday Brother Kenneth Holbert 95th Birthday Congratulations to Brother Coy Lindsay 50 Years or More Brothers Cake Mu Lambda Joins Eta Eta Lambda Mu Lambda Attends OLA & OHL Black Ice Event Food, Dessert and Drink of the Month The Jewel Lounge Founders Day Breakfast 2019 Brother Horace Greeley Dawson, Jr. is awarded the 2019 MAAC Jewel (Vertner Woodson Tandy) Award Locating Mu Lambda’s Charter Members Founders Day Wreath Laying - Jewel Ogle Founders Day Wreath Laying - Jewel Murray MLK Wreath Laying Wreaths Across America About the Mu Lambda Foundation Combined Federal Campaign The DC ONE FUND AmazonSmile World Aids Day 2019 DC Public Schools Message from the Education Committee Callis Academy Certificate of Appreciation Message from House of Ruth Committee President’s Volunteer Service Award Letter Annual Community Service Toy Drive Mu Lambda’s Donation To SOME Holiday Food Baskets Martha’s Table Advertise with us Domino’s Everything Co-op Radio Show AKStar Apparel Ad East State Street Band Mu Lambda Brother Rawn James, Jr. Exit Realty - Brother Albert A. Williams Financial Planning Needs, The Crone Esquivel Group Message from the Editor Esprit de Fraternite
CHARTERED ON MONDAY OCTOBER 1, 1923 WASHINGTON, D.C.
1. Harold Stratton* 1923-1924 2. Howard H. Long* 3. Charles H. Wesley* 1926-1928 4. Frank Adams* 5. R. Frank Jones* 6. James B. Browning* 7. Jewel Henry Arthur Callis* 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* 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 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-
* Omega Chapter Brothers
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Executive Board President Eddie Neal Vice President Garrett Miller Recording Secretary Jason Jefferson Corresponding Secretary Timothy Fitzgerald Financial Secretary Antonio King Treasurer Michael Young Chaplain William “Tony” Hawkins Historian Silas J Woods Archivist Jeremy Triplett Intake Coordinator Andre Lucas Assoc. Editor/Sphinx Kenneth A. Williams Dir. Ed. Activities Sean Perkins Sergeant-at-Arms Frank King Parliamentarian Byron L. Williams Web Master Mark Jones
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
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The Presidents’ Message Rather than celebrating New Year’s at a gala, I sat at home and reflected on 2019. During my period of reflection, I thought about all the good work Mu Lambda does in the community. We have been serving Alpha Phi Alpha and the District of Columbia for 96 years. We bring joy and touch the lives of many. I thought about the work with the ladies at the House of Ruth, preparing food at Martha’s Table, donating clothes to men and women at So Others Might Eat (SOME), preparing a meal for the Alpha Wives, raising funds and feeding families, donating toys to children through Child and Family Services Agency (CFSA), raising money and awareness for March for Babies, partnering with the AIDS Health Care Foundation to raise awareness for HIV and AIDS, and mentoring the young men at Hart Middle School and Ballou High School. I thought about the December celebration of our brothers with 50 or more years in the fraternity, honoring them with a cake at the December chapter meeting. While the 50 plus year brothers are the backbone of Mu Lambda, I also thought about our young brothers who are making their mark in Alpha and Mu Lambda. Without the young brothers Alpha and Mu Lambda would cease to exist. I thought about the end of the year celebrations where some of us were able to attend Brother Dawson’s receipt of the Jewel Award, the Alpha Wives holiday social, Mu Lambda’s holiday social, Brother James Haynes’ birthday celebration, and Brother Kenneth Holbert’s birthday celebration. All things were not good as quite a few of our brothers transitioned to Omega Chapter in 2019. I think about them and will individually miss each of them. Yet, with all of the aforementioned I smiled when I thought about all of the great brothers I will see at the first chapter meeting in 2020. There was a bond of brotherhood in 2019 like none I have experienced in all of my years in Alpha. If 2019 is an indicator of what is to come in 2020, I foresee Mu Lambda doing great things for the community and our brothers. Fraternally, Brother Eddie Neal, President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
Editor of the Torch Kenneth A. Williams Member at Large LeRoy Lowery III General Counsel Brent Radcliff Chief Fundraising Officer George D. McNeal Special Assistant to President Mikael E. LaRoche Risk Management Officer Garrett Miller
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Committee Chairs Auditing Mark Ross Brother’s Keeper Carlos DeBose Budget and Finance Chapman Young Communication and Technology Mark Jones Constitution Byron Williams DC National Pan Hellenic Council Derrick Butts Fundraising Matthew Aaron Golf Tournament Frank King
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
The Vice Presidents’ Message Happy New Year Brothers! I hope that you spent a great deal of time with family, friends and love ones exchanging plenty of love and good cheers. As we start off the New Year, let us take time to reflect on all the good cheer and love we as a chapter spread over the past year. There were so many lives touched by our good deeds. 2019 was a very busy year for Mu Lambda. Looking ahead in 2020, I’m sure we will touch many more lives and continue to make a difference out in the community. I look forward to working alongside each of you this year doing the work of Alpha and strengthening Mu Lambda. I do not have a lot to say this month, as I’m eager to start tackling the events that are already on our calendar. However, I will leave you with this thought, as I closed out 2019 I was shocked to hear that I lost a very close friend. I traveled to Rochester, NY to say my goodbyes. The Next night I received a text that another friend had passed. I now sit thinking that on this coming Friday we will host the Omega service for Brother Barnett. We know that tomorrow is not promised, nor do we know what the future holds, so be sure to always take time to reach out to your family, friends, love ones and frat to let them know that that they are loved and have someone that they can call if nothing else, but to just listen.
Health & Wellness Alvin L. Reaves, III
Onward and Upward 2020!
Membership Timothy Fitzgerald
Brother Garrett Miller Vice-President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
Men Who Cook Garrett Miller
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Mu Lambda Chapter History Book Silas Woods III Nominating Frank King Programs Joseph Gibbs Public Policy Vacant Social Joseph Gibbs Community Service Samuel Armstrong Marketing/Promotion Committee Garrett Miller Social Media Committe Jeremy Triplett JANUARY 2020 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4
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Wednesday, January 1st Thursday, January 9th Thursday, January 9th Friday, January 10th Saturday, January 11th Saturday, January 11th Monday, January 13th Wednesday, January 15th Wednesday, January 15th
Happy New Year Chapter meeting (second Thursday) MAAC reclamation (Caged Bird) John Barnett’s Omega Service Serving the Alpha Wives House of Ruth Education Committee Meeting Executive Board Meeting Callis Academy – Georgetown v. Creighton (Capital One Arena) Thursday, January 16th Mu Lambda Foundation meeting Monday, January 20th Martin Luther King, Jr. Day parade Monday, January 20th Education Committee meeting Tuesday, January 21st Callis Academy Thursday, January 23rd Health and Wellness committee meeting (conference call) Thursday, January 23rd Alpha Self-Defense Workshop Saturday, January 25th Callis Academy – School Supply Giveaway (Hart Middle School) Tuesday, January 28th Callis Academy – Georgetown v. Butler (Capital One Arena) Tuesday, January 28th DCNPHC meeting (1734 New Hampshire Ave, NW) Saturday, February 1st House of Ruth (Jason Jefferson’s team) Sunday, February 2nd Mu Lambda Super Bowl party Thursday, February 6th Chapter meeting Thursday, February 13th Health and Wellness committee meeting (conference call) Friday, February 14th Valentine’s Day Monday, February 17th Education Committee meeting Wednesday, February 19th Executive Board Meeting Wednesday, February 19th Callis Academy – Georgetown v. Providence (Capital One Arena) Thursday, February 20th Mu Lambda Foundation meeting Tuesday, February 25th Callis Academy Tuesday, February 25th DC Pan Hellenic meeting Wednesday, February 26th Martha’s Table (Turner Elementary) Saturday, February 29th MAAC conference (McDaniel College) Thursday, March 5th Chapter meeting Saturday, March 7th House of Ruth Thursday, March 12th Health and Wellness committee meeting (conference call) Monday, March 16th Education Committee meeting Tuesday, March 17th Callis Academy Wednesday, March 18th Executive Board Meeting Thursday, March 19th Mu Lambda Foundation meeting Saturday, March 21st Alpha Wives Paint and Sip Fundraiser Tuesday, March 24th DC PanHellenic meeting (1708 S Street, NW) Saturday, March 28th Mu Lambda – Men Who Cook Thursday, April 2nd-5th Eastern Region Convention (Bermuda) Thursday, April 9th Chapter meeting (second Thursday) Saturday, April 11th House of Ruth (Andre Lucas’ team) Thursday, April 9th Health and Wellness committee meeting (conference call) Saturday, April 11th Alpha Wives meeting
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Sunday, April 12th Wednesday, April 15th Thursday, April 16th Thursday, April 16th Saturday, April 18th Monday, April 20th Tuesday, April 21st Wednesday, April 22nd Saturday, April 25th
Easter Executive Board Meeting DC Emancipation Day Mu Lambda Foundation meeting DC Emancipation Day parade and concert Education Committee meeting Callis Academy Martha’s Table (Turner Elementary) Alpha Wives Card and Scholarship party (Silver Spring, MD) Tuesday, April 28th DC Pan Hellenic meeting Saturday, May 2nd House of Ruth Thursday, May 7th Chapter meeting – Election of Officers Saturday, May 9th Alpha Wives meeting Saturday, May 9th March of Dimes Sunday, May 10th Mother’s Day Thursday, May 14th Health and Wellness committee meeting (conference call) Monday, May 18th Education Committee meeting Tuesday, May 19th Callis Academy Wednesday, May 20th Executive Board Meeting Thursday, May 21st Mu Lambda Foundation meeting Monday, May 25th Memorial Day Tuesday, May 26th DC Pan Hellenic meeting Thursday, June 4th Chapter meeting – Installation of Officers Thursday, June 5th Payment plan starts for 2021 Grand Tax and Chapter Dues Saturday, June 6th House of Ruth (Frank King’s team) Thursday, June 11th Health and Wellness committee meeting (conference call) Monday, June 15th Education Committee meeting Tuesday, June 16th Callis Academy Wednesday, June 17th Executive Board Meeting Thursday, June 18th Mu Lambda Foundation meeting Friday, June 19th Mu Lambda’s Juneteenth celebration Sunday, June 21st Happy Father’s Day Tuesday, June 23rd DC Pan Hellenic meeting Saturday, July 4th Fourth of July Thursday, July 9th Health and Wellness committee meeting (conference call) Saturday, July 11th House of Ruth Wednesday, July 15th Executive Board Meeting Thursday, July 16th Mu Lambda Foundation meeting Monday, July 20th Education Committee meeting Saturday, August 1st House of Ruth (Tony Wilson’s team) Thursday, August 13th Health and Wellness committee meeting (conference call) Monday, August 17th Education Committee meeting Wednesday, August 19th Executive Board Meeting Thursday, August 20th Mu Lambda Foundation meeting Saturday, August 22nd Mu Lambda Chapter Retreat Thursday, September 3rd Chapter meeting Saturday, September 5th House of Ruth Thursday, September 10th Health and Wellness committee meeting (conference call)
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continued Saturday, September 12th Wednesday, September 16th
Alpha Wives meeting Congressional Black Caucus Reception at “The Park” Thursday, September 17th Mu Lambda Foundation meeting Monday, September 21st Education Committee meeting Tuesday, September 22nd DC Pan Hellenic meeting Wednesday, September 23rd Executive Board Meeting (fourth Wednesday) Saturday, September 26th Mu Lambda - Clean the Block (House and Anacostia) Thursday, October 1st Chapter meeting Thursday, October 1st Mu Lambda Chapter turns 97 Thursday, October 8th Health and Wellness committee meeting (conference call) Friday, October 2nd Golf Tournament (Woodmore Country Club) Friday, October 2nd Crab Feast (Woodmore Country Club) Saturday, October 3rd Charter Day Brunch Sunday, October 4th Mu Lambda worship service Saturday, October 10th House of Ruth (Tim Fitzgerald’s team) Saturday, October 10th Alpha Wives meeting Thursday, October 15th Mu Lambda Foundation meeting Monday, October 19th Education Committee meeting Wednesday, October 21st Executive Board meeting Tuesday, October 27th DC Pan Hellenic meeting (Alpha Phi Alpha is the host) Tuesday, November 3rd Election Day Thursday, November 5th Chapter meeting Saturday, November 7th House of Ruth Wednesday, November 11th Veterans Day Thursday, November 12th Health and Wellness committee meeting (conference call) Saturday, November 14th Alpha Wives meeting Monday, November 16th 2021 Grand tax and Chapter dues are officially late – late fee applies Monday, November 16th Education Committee meeting Tuesday, November 17th DC Pan Hellenic meeting Wednesday, November 18th Executive Board Meeting Thursday, November 19th Mu Lambda Foundation meeting Monday, November 23rd Brother Walter Robinson turns 100 Thursday, November 26th Happy Thanksgiving Thursday, December 3rd Chapter meeting Friday, December 4th Alpha Phi Alpha turns 114 Saturday, December 5th MAAC Breakfast Saturday, December 5th Wreath Laying Ceremony for Nathaniel A. Murray (N. Hollywood CA) Saturday, December 5th Wreath Laying Ceremony for Robert H. Ogle (Hyattsville, MD) Saturday, December 5th Founders Day banquet 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 Saturday, December 12th Alpha Wives meeting and Holiday Social Sunday, December 13th Mu Lambda Holiday Social Tuesday, December 15th DC Pan Hellenic – Holiday Toy Party Wednesday, December 16th Executive Board Meeting Thursday, December 17th Mu Lambda Foundation meeting Friday, December 18th Deliver holiday baskets to CFSA families Sunday, December 20th Beta Chapter turns 113 Monday, December 21st Education Committee meeting Friday, December 25th Merry Christmas
WELCOME TO
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Beta and Mu Lambda chapters Alpha Self-Defense Workshops for Women The Workshop will review • • • • • •
Situational awareness of your surroundings Proper Striking techniques Grab defenses Chocking defenses Using alternate items as defensive and offensive weapons Review of knife attack defenses
Eventbrite: AlphaSelf-DefenseJAN2020.eventbrite.com Free with College ID. Must register via Eventbrite to attend*
* All attendees will be required to sign a waiver to participate
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2nd through 5th
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Message from the Membership and Reclamation Chair Greeting Brothers, Brother President has charged me with reclaiming a minimum of 50 brothers this fraternal year. The ask is not insurmountable because numerous brothers stated during the convention their intention of returning to the chapter. I cannot do it alone; I would like all brothers to assist me. It is not just about getting brothers back into the fold – we have some challenging days ahead of Alpha and the African-American community. The more brothers we have helping, the more work we can do in the community. Fraternally, Brother Timothy Fitzgerald, Membership and Reclamation Committee Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
Happy Birthday Cole, Jr., O.J. Lucas, Rhett R. Valentine, Fred L. McNeal, George D. Dixon, Mr. Kevin L. Butts, Christopher C Young, II, Chatman K Dawson, Jr., Horace G.
January 6 January 7 January 9 January 13 January 19 January 21 January 24 January 30
Hoggard, Paul Hawkins, Jr., William A. Harris, Mr. Rylan R. Ross, Mark A.
January 4 January 4 January 4 January 20
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
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As Membership and Reclamation Chair of Mu Lambda Chapter, I would like to bring greetings to you and extend an invitation for you to return to the chapter. I am proud to be a member of this chapter as Mu Lambda celebrates 95 years of serving Washington, DC since 1923. Since our charter, Mu Lambda Chapter has been an innovator, a builder, and a molder of men making a difference in the lives of many in the Washington Metropolitan area. Mu Lambda Chapter is working diligently to ensure that our programs and social activities continue to impact the community in a positive way by being a catalyst of change. Today, Mu Lambda stands as a beacon of light to the community and a strong source of leadership. Through our Henry Arthur Callis Academy, we continue to facilitate the growth of young males so they understand that leadership is not a burden but a responsibility. Staying true to Alpha’s core: we implement successfully the fraternity’s National Programs: Go-to-High School Go-to-School, A Voteless People is a Hopeless People, Project Alpha and Brothers’ Keeper. These four programmatic efforts are implemented through “out-of-the-box” formats to ensure that Mu Lambda Chapter is reaching the target audience. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Mu Lambda in not a monolithic chapter. It is rich in history, diversity and ready to serve. The membership of the chapter ranges in age 23 to 99. Salaries range from $30,000 to $1,000,000 per annum. The membership is comprised of brothers initiated in 117 different chapters. Fifty-five life members. The lowest life member number is 691, while the highest in the chapter is 13910. Brothers list their race as African American, Afro-Hispanic, Caucasian, Multi-Racial, and West Indian/Caribbean. All brothers have a minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree. Two have Dental Degrees. Three have Medical Degrees. Eleven have MBA Degrees. Twenty-six have Doctorate Degrees. Twenty-seven have Law Degrees. Twenty-eight have Masters’ Degrees as their highest level of education.
I challenge you to reflect and rekindle the fraternal spirit. Our chapter meetings are every first Thursday at the Mu Lambda Community House, located at 2405 First Street NW, Washington, DC at 7:06 pm and the repast starts @ 6:30 pm. Please visit https://issuu.com/mulambdatorch to see what Mu Lambda has been doing. If you have any questions please call me @ 301-332-7507 or email me at timfitz06@comcast.net. Fraternally, Bro. Tim Fitzgerald Membership and Reclamation Chair Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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Reminder to Brothers Regarding Any Pending Hazing Allegations or Litigation December 18, 2019 As a reminder, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. does not condone and strictly prohibits any illegal acts, including hazing in any form, whether physical or mental, as a term or condition of membership in the organization. The Fraternity also does not comment publicly on any pending litigation and requests all Brothers to do the same. This includes comments and discussions on all social and digital media platforms. Instead, please direct any and all questions about pending litigation to Brother Gregory Phillips, Interim Executive Director at our corporate office at gphillips@apa1906.net We appreciate your discretion and cooperation. Brother Daryl D. Parks General Counsel ### Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., headquartered in Baltimore, MD, was founded on December 4, 1906 at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY. The Fraternity has long stood at the forefront of the African-American community’s fight for civil rights through Alpha men such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Adam Clayton Powell, Thurgood Marshall, Paul Robeson, Andrew Young, Edward Brooke and Cornel West. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, Canada, Africa, Europe, Asia and the Caribbean. Visit http://www.apa1906.net and follow on Twitter @apa1906network.
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
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Omega Chapter Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Mu Lambda Chapter
Brother John Barnett Born: Friday, May 22, 1959 Chapter of Initiation: Delta Chapter Date of Initiation: Friday, September 15, 1978 Omega Chapter: Sunday, December 29, 2019
The Omega Service will be held on Friday, January 10, 2020 at 6:00 pm in the Silver Spring Civic Building, Veterans Plaza, 1 Veterans Place, Silver Spring, MD 20910. The Words of Tribute will be given by Brother Barnett’s sons, Brothers John and Amir Barnett.
Farewell dear Brother
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Brothers Who Entered Omega Chapter in
2019
John Barnett
Elbert Gadsden
Evans E Crawford
Paul Webber
Cain Hope Felder
Ron Dellums
Rudolph Harris
James A Donaldson
Lasalle Lefall, Jr
Tyrone Mitchell
William Ridley
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Message from the Alpha Wives of Washington, D.C. Inc. Greetings and Happy New Year from the Alpha Wives of Washington, D.C. We enter this new year, and new decade, with a renewed sense of purpose. At the end of last year, the Alpha Wives hosted its annual Holiday Party at the Mu Lambda Community Center on December 14th, which included good food; live music courtesy of the East State Jazz Band led by Mu Lambda Bro. Ryle Bell; and good fellowship. Special thanks to all who attended. We then came together and wrapped the 50 robes that Mu Lambda Chapter gifted to the women at the House of Ruth on December 21st along with a full course holiday meal. Special thanks to Alpha Wives, Modestine Lowery, Tiara Williams, and Helena Valentine, who assisted in wrapping the robes. What an incredible way to end the year. Over the next few months, we are excited about our upcoming Paint and Sip Party with a Mardi Gras theme in March and our Annual Card Party in April, where both the Alpha Wives and Mu Lambda Chapter will provide scholarships to students attending D.C. Public Schools. We will share more as we get closer to the events. Finally, we enter the new year with a strong sense of gratitude. So often we take our blessings for granted, not realizing that each day on this earth is special and unique and cannot be relived. With that in mind, our goal for this new year is to continue to grow as an organization and in our support for the brothers of Mu Lambda Chapter. Our next meeting is Saturday, January 11, 2020 at the Mu Lambda Community Center, with the repast beginning at 12:30 p.m., followed by the meeting at 1:00. As always, the Alpha Wives request that you share this message with your spouse in the event they want to attend. Sincerely, Claudia J. Postell, Esq. President Alpha Wives of Washington, D.C. Inc.
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Alpha Wives Holiday Party
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Alpha Wives Holiday Party continued
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Mu Lambda’s Holiday Social
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Brother Walter Robinson 99th Birthday
Brother Kenneth Holbert 95th Birthday
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Holbert 95th Birthday continued
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Holbert 95th Birthday continued
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Holbert 95th Birthday continued
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Congratulations to Brother Coy Lindsay on Graduating from George Mason University with a Master's in Public Administration
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50 Years or More Brothers Cake
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Mu Lambda Joins Eta Eta Lambda Celebrating Its 50 Year Brothers
Mu Lambda Attends OLA & OHL Black Ice Event
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Shrimp and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe courtesy of Food Network Kitchen From: Food Network Magazine
Ingredients: • Kosher salt • 8 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti • 4 teaspoons vegetable oil • 2 tablespoons finely chopped scallions (white and light green parts only) • 2 tablespoons minced peeled ginger • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined • 1 bunch broccoli, cut into florets, stems peeled and thinly sliced • 2 cups low-sodium mushroom or vegetable broth • 1 tablespoon cornstarch • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil Directions: 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook as the label directs. Drain and transfer to a large bowl. 2. Meanwhile, heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 2 teaspoons vegetable oil, then add half each of the scallions, ginger and garlic; stir-fry until the scallions are wilted, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the shrimp and stir-fry until just cooked through, about 5 minutes.
Transfer the shrimp mixture to a plate using a slotted spoon. 3. Add the remaining 2 teaspoons vegetable oil to the skillet. Add the remaining scallions, ginger and garlic; stir-fry 1 to 2 minutes, then add the broccoli andcook, tossing to coat, 1 to 2 more minutes. Add 1/2 cup broth. Cover and cook until the broccoli is just tender, 5 to 7 minutes. 4. Whisk the cornstarch and 1 tablespoon water in a bowl, then whisk in the remaining 1 1/2 cups broth, the soy sauce and sesame oil. Return the shrimp to the skillet; add the broth mixture. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring, until thickened, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the pasta and toss to coat. Link: https://www.foodnetwork. com/recipes/food-networkkitchen/shrimp-and-broccoli-lomein-3363727
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eggs with an electric mixer until creamy. Add the sugar and vanilla and beat well. Combine the flour salt, baking soda, and ground cinnamon together in a bowl. Slowly add this mixture to the egg mixture and mix until combined. The batter will be very thick. Fold in the apples by hand using a wooden spoon. Spread batter into the prepared pan. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 45 minutes or until cake tests done. Let cake cool on a wire rack. Once cake is cool serve with a dusting of confectioners’ sugar or with a Cream Cheese Frosting.
Brother Garrett Miller
Black Magic Margaritas
Brother Derrick Butts
German Apple Cake
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2 eggs 1 cup vegetable oil (or Real Butter) 2 cups white sugar 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 4 cups apples - peeled, cored and diced (Granny Smith Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour one 9x13 inch cake pan. In a mixing bowl; beat oil and
Ingredients: • 2 tbsp. black sanding sugar • 2 c. ice • 4 oz. silver tequila • 2 oz. triple sec • 1/2 c. lime juice • Red food coloring • Blue food coloring • Green food coloring • Lime slices, for garnish Directions: 1. Rim two glasses with a lime slice and dip in black sanding sugar. 2. Divide tequila, triple sec, and lime juice between two glasses and stir to combine. Add food coloring until desired black color is achieved. 3. Add ice and garnish with a slice of lime before serving. Brother Drew Love
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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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Founders Day Breakfast 2019
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Founders Day Breakfast 2019 continued
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Founders Day Breakfast 2019 continued
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Brother Horace Greeley Dawson, Jr. is awarded the 2019 MAAC Jewel (Vertner Woodson Tandy) Award Saturday, December 7, 2019, assembled before 50 Mu Lambda brothers and 250 brothers and guests, Brother Horace Greeley Dawson, Jr. was awarded the 2019 MAAC Jewel Award in honor of Jewel Brother Vertner Woodson Tandy. Brother Horace Greeley Dawson, Jr. (born January 30, 1926, Augusta, Georgia) has had and continues to have a distinguished career in education, government, and diplomatic service. In the diplomatic service, he rose to the highest rank – Ambassador Extraordinaire and Plenipotentiary – the position he held as Ambassador to the Republic of Botswana under two U.S. presidents. Since his initiation in Nu Chapter, Lincoln University, Pennsylvania, October 31, 1946, he has affiliated with the local Alpha chapter, wherever he has resided, both at home and abroad, providing service and leadership to the Fraternity and the community in the tradition of Alpha. In Liberia, for example, he was chapter secretary and public relations officer. As a faculty member, he advised undergraduate chapters at Southern University and North Carolina Central University. He is an active member of Mu Lambda and has served the Fraternity for 72 eventful years. Brother Dawson was a charter member of the Fraternity's World Policy Council, a thinktank whose purpose is to expand Alpha Phi Alpha's involvement in national and world affairs, bringing the Fraternity’s perspectives and influence to bear in matters of national and international concerns among decision makers. In 1997, he succeeded Brother Senator Edward W. Brooke, the Council’s first chairman, and has held the position of Chairman ever since.
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literature at Columbia University and received his M.A. the following year. Brother Dawson began his professional career as an instructor in English at Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he remained three years before joining the faculty at North Carolina Central University, where he worked as an associate professor of English and director of public relations, when he resigned in 1963 to join the Foreign Service. He also earned his Ph.D. from the University of Iowa in 1961 and holds honorary degrees from Lincoln and Howard University, the latter awarded on the recent commencement program with President Barack Obama and Cicely Tyson. Brother Dawson entered the Foreign Service, working as a cultural affairs officer in Uganda and Nigeria, and then as the United States Information Agency Director in Liberia. From 1973 to 1977, he held a prominent position as the director of American information and cultural programs in Africa. Subsequently, he became the counselor of embassy for public affairs and the director of American information and cultural programs in the Philippines, where he remained until 1979. That year, he was named ambassador to Botswana by President Jimmy Carter. As ambassador, he worked to end apartheid in South Africa. Returning to the United States in 1983, he remained with the State Department until his retirement in 1989. He then joined the faculty at Howard University and was appointed director of the public affairs program. In 1993, Brother Dawson established the Ralph J. Bunche International Affairs Center at Howard by writing and securing a $3 million program grant, and in 1997 became the director of that program as well. Brother Dawson is a former member of the Peace Corps Advisory Board, Chairman of the Selection Committee for the (Brother) Franklin H. Williams Memorial Internship Program of the Council on Foreign Relations, formerly chairman of the Association of Black American Ambassadors, and Chairman Emeritus of the Senior Board Stewards, Metropolitan A.M.E. Church in Washington, D.C. He is listed in Who's Who in America and several other such publications. He has written extensively on the topics of mass media and international affairs. In all of the positions he has held, Brother Dawson is recognized as a strong advocate for diversity, especially in public service and in international affairs. His publications, including contributions to the SPHINX and his presentations at conventions and in other forums reflect this commitment and especially his desire to promote inclusion and achievement among brothers in Alpha. It is in his role as “a mentor to young men and women of color,” that the University of Iowa recently honored him with its Distinguished Alumni Award for Public Service. Iowa cited as one example, his recruitment for a State Department internship of a young college student named Condoleezza Rice, the 66th U.S. Secretary of State.
In addition to his duties of advising General Presidents of the Fraternity, he is a member of Mu Lambda’s My Brother’s Keeper program ensuring the needs of senior brothers in Mu Lambda are properly addressed. He is also a board member of the Mu Lambda Foundation. He also provides advice to Mu Lambda and Beta chapter brothers on careers in government with emphasis on international affairs and foreign diplomatic service. Brother Dawson attended Lincoln University before being drafted into the U.S. Army during his freshman year, serving a two-year tour of duty in Europe and the Philippines. Brother Dawson returned to Lincoln University to finish his studies, earning his A.B. (with honors), and went on to study English and comparative JANUARY 2020 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 34
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Brother Horace Greeley Dawson, Jr. Jewel Award Highights
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Locating Mu Lambda’s Charter Members Two Mu Lambda charter members were also founding members of the fraternity, Jewels Nathaniel Allison Murray and Robert Harold Ogle. According to Brother Kobina Yankah, the grave of Jewel Murray was discovered by Brother Daniel Craddock of Gamma Xi. The grave of Jewel Ogle was discovered by Brothers of Beta Chapter (Faheem Majeed, Roderick Thompson, and Kobina Yankah). Brother Yankah memorialized the finding of the grave site with a picture of the then unmarked grave. He states Skip Mason gave a tip to Brother Antonio Barnes who had the newly initiated brothers, follow-up on the tip. He states they discovered the grave in May 1999, presented a report to the convention in Houston to get funds for a marker but nothing materialized. He states the following year, they presented a report to the MAAC that took up the fundraising efforts that lead to the new marker being placed at the grave site. He states it is his belief that Jewel Murray was moved from another cemetery to Harmony but was placed in an unmarked grave. He states Harmony had the records but it was Skip Mason who discovered he was at Harmony. He states it fell on him and his line brothers to determine the actual site from the map Harmony provided from their records. He further states he and Brother Craddock were roommates attending UCLA thus he could not make the Eastern Region Convention’s ceremony in 2002 where he and his line brothers were presented an award for locating Jewel Ogle’s grave site.
Lambda charter members and have a wreath delivered to their grave site every charter day. After we locate all of the charter members, we hope to locate the burial site of all of Mu Lambda’s past presidents and also honor them with an annual wreath at their grave site on Mu Lambda’s charter day. Brother Kenneth Williams has begun the process of locating the burial sites of Mu Lambda’s past presidents. Brother Mikael LaRoche oversaw the wreath-laying ceremonies for Jewels Murray and Ogle. He prepared the narrative for the official ceremonies that were carried out at the respective grave sites. He coordinated the efforts to ensure the wreaths were at both grave sites. In addition, he secured the wreaths and coordinated the efforts so that the brothers in California were able to lay the wreath at Jewel Murray’s grave site on Saturday, November 30th and Jewel Ogle’s grave site on Saturday, December 7th. Jewel Murray’s exact location is Pierce Brothers Valhalla Memorial Park, 10621 Victory Boulevard, North Hollywood, California 91606. Ascension Mausoleum Level D, Space/Row 20. Jewel Ogle’s exact location is National Harmony Memorial Park Cemetery, 7101 Sherriff Road, Landover Maryland 20785. He is buried in the Herbert Section, Lot 63, Grave 7. Fraternally. Brother Eddie Neal, President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
It is our goal to identify the burial place of all Mu
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Jewel Nathanial Allison Murray Wreath-Laying Ceremony
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Jewel Nathanial Allison Murray Wreath-Laying Ceremony continued
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Jewel Nathanial Allison Murray Wreath-Laying Ceremony continued
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Jewel Robert Harold Ogle Wreath Laying Ceremony
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Brother Martin Luther King, Jr. Wreath Laying Ceremony
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Wreaths Across America When Morrill Worcester was a 12-year-old paperboy, he won a trip to DC and visited Arlington National Cemetery. The sacrifice of the heroes lain to rest there made a lasting impression on young Morrill, that he carried with him into adulthood. Years later, in 1992, as the owner of the Worcester Wreath Company of Harrington, Maine, Morrill had an excess of wreaths. He remembered his experience at Arlington and made arrangements to have the wreaths taken to the cemetery to be laid upon the graves. This became a tradition each year, that was carried out quietly until 2005 when someone put a picture on the internet and it went viral. In 2008, that silent small excess number of wreaths became Wreaths Across America. This year, on December 14th, thousands of volunteers laid wreaths at 2,100 sites around the world. The U.S. Soldiers' & Airmen's Home National Cemetery is our nation’s first national cemetery. It was established in July 1861, for the burial of U.S. soldiers and officers. The first burials in this cemetery were made on August 3, 1861. The cemetery is currently nearly 16 acres in size and is the resting place for 21 Medal of Honor recipients. Currently, 14,000 veterans are buried here. The cemetery came up 1,000 wreaths short on December 14th. Leaving no hero behind, Maine sent the extra wreaths down on Saturday, December 21st. A small number of volunteers braved the below-freezing temperatures to make sure the last heroes were honored. Mu Lambda's Brother Mark Jones was among those volunteers. As a wreath is placed upon the grave, the hero’s name is spoken aloud. It is said that a person dies twice, once when their life has ended, and again when their name is no longer spoken. Speaking the name of the fallen keeps them from dying that final time. Next year, Wreaths Across America will take place on December 19th. The U.S. Soldiers’ & Airmen’s cemetery is mere blocks from our Mu Lambda's house. As many of our Brothers are Veterans, Mu Lambda will again plan on participating, or possibly even sponsoring, this important event. Let us not forget that if it were not for these brave heroes, we would not have the freedoms that we oftentimes take for granted. Fraternally, Brother Mark Jones Webmaster Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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MU LAMBDA FOUNDATION, INCORPORATED
mulambdafoundation.org The mission of the Mu Lambda Foundation, a 501(C)3 organization, is service to mankind, the promotion of scholarship, and the enhancement of knowledge and achievement of males of all ages. Our deepest purpose as an organization is to be the catalyst in communities by helping to support the health and well being of people. To prevent and alleviate human suffering while enabling people to realize their full potential by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. The Foundation is the charitable arm of Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the first African American intercollegiate fraternity, was founded in 1906 on the campus of Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. The Foundation’s charitable activities include the Henry Arthur Callis Academy, a mentoring program for male students in grades 9 – 12; Project Alpha, an anti-teen pregnancy program oriented to males; work with the DC Food Bank; partnering with the District of Columbia Public School system programs, including Boy Scouts and Youth Court; assisting at the Ronald McDonald House and The House of Ruth, where we serve meals to residents on a monthly basis; and college scholarships for needy youth. The Foundation has donated over $310,000 in scholarships over the past 20 years. The Henry Arthur Callis Academy is conducted at Frank Ballou Senior High School in Washington, DC. Meeting monthly with up to 20 students, the Foundation members and Ballou staff address college preparedness, mentoring, job shadowing, college visits and social interactions. The Foundation has a five-year strategic plan that will create opportunities to positively impact rates of success of local African American male youth along their trajectory from positive academic and social experiences in middle and high school, high school graduation, college entrance, and college completion. When executed, our strategic plan will provide a full range of Academy experiences and activities for African American young men in grades 9 - 12.
Henry Arthur Callis Academy activities include: 10 College Readiness Courses 1. Organization and Study Skills for College 2. Selecting, Applying to, and Financing College (Parents encouraged to attend) 3. Presentation Skills and Public Speaking 4. Selecting a College Major 5. Responding to Racial Profiling, Stereotyping, and Racism in Society 6. Health and Nutrition 7. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving 8. Financial Literacy 9. Professional Attire and Grooming 10. Etiquette and Social Skills in Professional Settings Mentoring/Job Shadowing • Each Scholar is mentored throughout the Academy and beyond • Scholars shadow their mentor at the mentor’s place of employment for the purpose of exposing the Scholar to the mentor’s professional role and responsibilities College/University Visit • Scholars spend a day at a local college or university and shadow college students as they attend classes and navigate the college environment Social Events & Positive Interactions • Scholars participate in social events and interactions that are positive, healthy, empowering, and affirming Black & Gold Gala Scholars are recognized at the annual Mu Lambda Chapter Black & Gold Gala each year. “This is our first task – caring for our children. It’s our first job. If we don’t get that right, we don’t get anything right. That’s how, as a society, we will be judged.” - Barack H. Obama 44th President of the United States Project Alpha is conducted monthly at Charles Hart Middle School in SE Washington, DC. Mu Lambda Foundation continued on next page
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THE TORCH -----------------------------------------------------------------------------Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and the March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation began collaboratively implementing Project Alpha in 1980. This project is designed to provide education, motivation and skill-building on issues of responsibility, relationships, teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases for young males ages 12-15 years. Designed to provide young men with current and accurate information about teen pregnancy prevention, Project Alpha consists of a series of workshops and informational sessions.
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BOARD OF DIRECTORS LeRoy Lowery, III President Juan H. Powell Vice-President Chatman K. Young, II Treasurer
The goals of Project Alpha programs are:
Ryle A. Bell, D.D.S.
1. Sharing knowledge by combating ignorance and fear with factual information. 2. Changing attitudes by providing motivation toward positive changes in sexual behavior. 3. Providing skills by creating a sense of empowerment and self-esteem.
Malcolm B. Carter
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: Provides education for young males 12-15 years old on sexuality, fatherhood and the role of males in relationships. • •
Motivates young men to make decisions about their goals and values, and act in ways that support their decisions. Builds young men's skills through roleplaying. Utilizes appropriate male role models and mentors.
CURRICULUM The Project Alpha curriculum focuses on five key topics: • • • • •
Responsibility, Respect and the Role of Males in Relationships Adolescent Pregnancy and Fatherhood Protecting Yourself and Your Partner Sexually Transmitted Diseases Intimate Violence in Relationships
Albert C. Cheek, D.D.S. Hon. Horace G. Dawson, Jr., Ph.D. Marcel Desroches A. Gilbert Douglass, Esq. W. Anthony Hawkins, Jr., Ph.D. Kenneth F. Holbert, Esq. Alvin Reaves, M.D. John A. Wilson For additional information, to donate funds or to volunteer your services contact us at our headquarters: Mu Lambda Foundation 2405 First St., NW Washington, DC 20001-1019 or send an email to llowery@mulambdafoundation.org
Because Hart Middle School is a feeder school for Ballou Senior High School, we work with the same students from grades 6 though 12 preparing these young men for college and beyond. Our strategic plan calls for expansion of these programs to additional schools throughout the District of Columbia. Lend your support to the work of the Mu Lambda Foundation by donating to either the Combined Federal Campaign, the DC One Fund or directly to the Foundation through our website at www.mulambdafoundation.org JANUARY 2020 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 44
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®
Combined Federal Campaign
®
$TCPF 5VCPFCTFU Mu Lambda Foundation’s Combined Federal Campaign Number is: 66770 Please ask your family and friends to consider Mu Lambda Foundation as their charity of choice. The contribution goes toward servicing the community. September 9, 2019 is the Opening of the Online Pledge Portal. January 12, 2020 is the last day to give. ®
®
1˝
I am a current CFC donor and would like to continue my pledge into the next year. Do I have to complete 1.75˝ a new pledge form? Minimum size allowed. Please noteto thatindicate Combined Federal type to is which they wish to Donors must complete a new pledge form each year the Campaign charities removed at this size and no other small font type may designate a contribution. Please consider Mu be Lambda Foundation as one of your charitiesRecommended of choice. used. minimum size with type.
Can federal retirees sign up to have CFC contributions withheld from their retirement annuity? If yes, can this be done online? Combined Federal Campaign Brand Standards *Created by our design partners, Hirshorn Zuckerman Design Group, Inc., HZDG.com. Yes. Federal retirees may participate in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) by making either a onetime contribution (credit/debit card or e-check) or through monthly deductions from their annuities. Both of these methods can be used on the CFC Pledging System. Is it possible to make a one-time donation to CFC by Credit Card? Yes. One-time gifts using credit/debit cards can be made on the CFC Pledging System. Can new hires give when they join a federal agency even if it is not during the campaign? Yes. 5 CFR §950.102(a)(1) states new federal employees must be provided information about the CFC at their orientation and must be allowed to make a pledge within 30 days of starting duty. Can a federal employee donate to a local charitable organization in a neighboring CFC campaign zone? Yes. Can a federal contractor contribute to the CFC campaign? Federal contractors working in Federal facilities may make one-time contributions (credit/debit card or e-check) through the CFC. This can be done on the CFC Pledging System. Will participating charitable organizations receive the names of donors who have contributed to their organizations? It is the responsibility of the Central Campaign Administrator (CCA) to provide the names of donors who wish to have their names released to the designated charitable organizations. JANUARY 2020 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 45
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The DC ONE FUND
Campaign begins the first week of October 2019 and runs for approximately 10 weeks. Please support Mu Lambda through the DC One Fund
Mu Lambda Foundation’s DC One Fund Number is: 9199 Why should I donate through DC One Fund? The DC One Fund is a convenient tool for you to make a donation to Mu Lambda Foundation through payroll deduction. If you itemize deductions on your taxes, this is a simple way to track your donations. Also, please remember that every donation of any dollar amount makes an impact in our community. Can I do a one-time donation? Yes, you can. Go to www.dconefund.org and select the “pledge now” button, login, and then you may donate using the one-time payroll deduction option or the credit card option. How do I find my agency’s coordinator? Send an email to dconefund@dc.gov with your agency’s name and someone will respond to you with the name, email and phone number of your agency’s coordinator Can I give $25 or less to Mu Lambda Foundation through DC One Fund? No. United Way of the National Capital Area, which is the lead administrator of the DC One Fund drive, will not send donations of $25 or less to an individual charity. If an employee wants to designate funds to his or her charity of choice, the total annual contribution must be at least $26. Donations of $25 or less will be treated as undesignated contributions. Undesignated contributions are used to pay for the annual financial audit of the DC One Fund and other administrative costs. The United Way’s Community Impact Fund is supported by the remaining undesignated funds. Can I change the amount of money allocated to Mu Lambda Foundation? Yes. Please go to the DC One Fund donation site, select the “pledge now” button, login, and from there, click “edit” on the donation summary page. Can I do a one-time donation? Yes, you can. Go to DC One Fund and visit the “pledge now” tab located at the bottom of the page, login, and then you may pledge using the one-time payroll deduction option or the credit card option. JANUARY 2020 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46
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ANOTHER WAY TO SUPPORT THE MU LAMBDA FOUNDATION
What is AmazonSmile? AmazonSmile is a simple and automatic way for you to support the Mu Lambda Foundation every time you shop, at no cost to you. When you shop at smile.amazon.com, you’ll find the exact same low prices, vast selection and convenient shopping experience as Amazon.com, with the added bonus that Amazon will donate a portion of the purchase price to your favorite charitable organization.
Can I use my existing Amazon.com account on AmazonSmile?
Yes, you use the same account on Amazon.com and AmazonSmile.
On your computer:
1. launch your internet browser and go to smile.amazon.com. 2. Log into with your Amazon account information. 3. Select Mu Lambda Foundation as your charitable choice. Everytime you make a eligible purchase a portion will go to the Foundation.
On your cellphone
1. If you have the Amazon App installed you should remove it. To do this, tap and hold the app icon until it starts to jiggle. Tap the cross at the top left of the icon and confirm that you want to delete it. Don’t worry, this will not delete your Amazon account or any of your settings. 2. Now from your cellphone internet browser go to smile.amazon.com. 3. Once there Tap the ‘share’ button at the bottom of the screen. 4. Tap the ‘Add to Home Screen’ icon. You may need to swipe to the left on iPhone to see this or scroll down on Android. 5. You will now have an Amazon Smile icon on your home screen which will replace your previous Amazon App.
Supporting the Mu Lambda Foundation doesn’t add any extra cost to your purchases! JANUARY 2020 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 47
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World AIDS Day Video Recap!! View Now
Highlights
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Dear DCPS Community,
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second half of the school year. On January 30, we will celebrate Standing Ovation where we recognize outstanding educators, leaders, and school staff from across the district who are transforming outcomes for students. The teams at Ballou and Anacostia High Schools will continue their Redesign work, implement their new school models — with a focus on projectbased learning and a case study approach — and introduce new career pathways in School Year 2020-2021. We will continue our cluster model to provide schools with aligned support on topics including technology, engagement, and special education.
Thank you for all that you do to support the students and school communities of DC Public Schools (DCPS). We know that our schools are strongest when we work in partnership with our families and our communities and I want to thank you for contributing your time, attention, and perspective as we continue our work. I am grateful that members of our community continue to invest in our students from neighborhood leaders to former First Lady Michelle Obama — who paid a recent visit to Randle Highlands Elementary School — in ways that complement the investments we are making to support students inside and outside I hope that you have the opportunity to spend of the classroom. the holidays with your loved ones and that you take time to rest and recharge as we enter We have so much to be proud of as we look back 2020. I wish you and your family a happy on the past year. We enrolled more than 51,000 holiday season and a happy new year! students, showing that more families continue to choose DCPS. Nine out of 10 families rate In partnership, their child’s public school positively and a record number of DC residents view our system Lewis D. Ferebee, Ed.D. positively. Student achievement continues to Chancellor rise, including four consecutive years of PARCC DC Public Schools growth and nine consecutive years of growth in Advanced Placement (AP) pass rates.
(left to right) Deputy Chancellor Amy Maisterra, Chancellor Lewis D. Ferebee, Deputy Chancellor Melissa Kim
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Message from the Education Committee On Tuesday, December 17, 2019, Brothers Samuel Armstrong, Malcolm Carter, James Isreal, LeRoy Lowery, Eddie Neal, Sean Perkins, and Kobina Yankah met with the young men for Mu Lambda’s Henry Arthur Callis Academy at Ballou High School. Brother Malcolm Carter once again provided the pizza and soda for the young men. Henry Arthur Callis was a founding member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and Mu Lambda’s seventh chapter president. The Henry Arthur Callis Academy encompasses the fraternity’s Project Alpha and Go To High School To College curriculum. We currently have 44 young men enrolled in the program: 17 twelfth graders, three eleventh graders, nine ninth graders, 10 eighth graders, three seventh graders, and two sixth graders. Of the 44 young men enrolled, 14 were in attendance. December is one of the busiest months for many of the students who play sports and work parttime jobs. Those in attendance were: Omarion Butler, Tavon Faunteroy, William Fields, Delbert Lisenby, Jah-Marii Gray, Jaelen McMillian, Melvin McMillian, Trey Redmon, Kahlieve Robinson, Zamari Silver, Terrontae Stephens, Brandon Taylor, Taion White, and Phillip Williams. Those enrolled but absent were: Robert Aikens, Stewart Arnold, Daniel Barnes, Gewaun Boomer, Ronald Brooks, Sahmar Coleman, Leon Corbin, Cyrell Ellis, JaShawn Evans, Durell Ford, Christian Harrison, Jalonnie Hawkins, DeAndre Jackson, Kamari King, Savion Lomax, Anthony Martin, Deonte McGriff, Ralph Nickens, Demondre Phillips, Jaz Pratt, Antonio Ratliff, Tremar Richardson, Mahchi Robinson, Joseph Taramalio, Armon Thorton, Jayden Watson, Ryan Wheeler, Vincent Wingfield, Mykel Woodbury, and Dereon Wyatt. The December curriculum consisted of the Introduction of participants and brothers, Repast, Reflection on the Senior Experience and Senior Clearance, and identifying the college of acceptance. It was a very interactive session where the seniors told about their Senior Experience and the middle school students and brothers had many questions. While many of the seniors listed their college of choice and schools they received acceptance letters, Jah-Marii Gray, bravely stated that he does not think college is for him and that he would like to be a comedian. The brothers were supportive of his decision and vowed to match him with an Alpha brother, Lamont King, who is a comedian, for mentoring. The Education Committee meets the third Monday of every month at the house to formulate the calendar of activities for the program. Brothers interested in serving are encouraged to attend the meeting or session at Ballou High School. The current member of the Education Committee are Brothers Samuel Armstrong, Kent Benjamin, Fabien Holder (Beta’s Vice President), James Isreal, Sean Perkins, and Alvin Reaves, III. The next session will take place Tuesday, January 21, 2020, 3:30 pm at Ballou High School. If you have never attended, when you enter the building tell security to direct you to Dr. Perkin’s room. In addition to the regularly scheduled session we plan to have the young men and brothers attend the following free events: Monday, January 13th Wednesday, January 15th Monday, January 20th Tuesday, January 21st Saturday, January 25th Tuesday, January 28th
Education Committee meeting Basketball – Georgetown v. Creighton at Capital One Arena Martin Luther King, Jr. Day parade Callis Academy at Ballou High School School Supply Giveaway and free haircuts at Hart Middle School Basketball – Georgetown v. Butler at Capital One Arena
Fraternally, Brother Sean Perkins Director, Education Committee Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter JANUARY 2020 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 50
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CALLIS ACADEMY HIGHLIGHTS
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Callis Academy Highlights Continued
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Callis Academy Highlights Continued
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Message from the House of Ruth Committee Greetings Brothers, Brothers Samuel Armstrong, Karl Bruce, Joseph Gibbs, Joseph Housey, Jason Jefferson, LeRoy Lowery, Eddie Neal, Mike Young, and I served the ladies of the House of Ruth on Saturday, December 21st. The December menu was chicken, fish, macaroni and cheese, collard greens with cabbage, corn bread, chocolate cake, strawberry cake, banana pudding, chocolate covered strawberries, chocolate covered cherries, vanilla ice cream, water, and sweet tea. The ladies were also provided individual roses. Following the dinner, we presented 50 holiday gift bags. Each lady was presented with a holiday gift bag containing a bathrobe, back pack, and wash clothes. We have renewed our partnership to serve the ladies again in 2020. Brothers voted for the chapter to sponsor the dinners during the odd months (January 11th, March 7th, May 2nd, July 11th, September 5th, and November 7th). Teams of brothers will sponsor the even months (February 1st (Jason Jefferson’s team), April 11th (Andre Lucas team), June 6th (Frank King’s team), August 1st (Tony Wilson’s team), October 10th Tim Fitzgerald’s team), and December 6th (Alvin Reave’s team). We prepare hot nutrition packed meals. If you are unable to attend and serve the dish, we arrive at 3:30 to set the table and serve dinner promptly at 4:30 pm. Fraternally, Brother Garrett Miller Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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Dear Eddie Neal, Congratulations! We are pleased to let you know that you have been approved as an official Certifying Organization for the President's Volunteer Service Award. The ability to bestow Presidential recognition to your volunteers is a tremendous honor. Recognizing the great work and commitment of your volunteers can deliver a powerful message, one that encourages others to take action. To get started, follow the simple steps below: • Create account with your username (president@mulambda.org) by clicking the button below. • Once you enter your account, please review all of your profile information to confirm everything is accurate and correct. The information provided here will be our primary means of contacting you with important information and updates. • Once you have confirmed the information in your profile is accurate and up-to-date, you are set to begin recognizing your volunteers! If you’re looking for more information, click here to download the Participating Organization User Guide, or visit the 'Resources' tab under your profile for this guide that will explain your role and help you get the most out of our website. We applaud your commitment to volunteer service and are here to help you along the way. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact us utilizing the 'Contact Us' link below. Yours in service, The PVSA support team
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MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
Annual Community Service Toy Drive Brother Joseph Housey, III, chaired the annual Community Service Toy Drive for Mu Lambda at the Child and Family Services Agency (CFSA) in SE Washington, DC. The initiative collects and distributes over 4,500 gifts and toys to families through CFSA to ensure the children have a memorable holiday. On a warm Saturday, December 14th afternoon, Mu Lambda brothers unloaded the trucks of donated toys, organizing them into age and other preferences to be further shared by CFSA to children and families in need. The act of kindness has not gone unnoticed by CFSA as we work to continue to cherish our longstanding relationship.
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Annual Community Service Toy Drive continued
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Mu Lambda’s Donation To SOME
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Mu Lambda Feeds 518 People Holiday Food Baskets Mu Lambda assists grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. This year Mu Lambda assisted three families (18 people) through the Grandparent Caregiver Program (GCP), selected by the Child and Family Services Agency (CFSA). The grandparents provide a home for their grandchildren, preventing them from entering foster care. Brothers contributed individually to make the holidays special for the families. For those who contributed, your donations provided a well-balanced meal to families in need. The boxes contained fruit, vegetables, and protein: Turkey, ham, bacon, eggs, milk, water, mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, macaroni and cheese, cranberry sauce, rolls, apple juice, apple pie, pancakes, bananas, oranges, carrots, potatoes, onions, soda, peanut butter and jelly, and snack packs for the children. Brother Neal and I delivered the baskets on Christmas eve. The families were extremely appreciative and extended many thanks to the brothers of Mu Lambda. The first family had children attending Hart Middle School and Ballou High School. Continuing with the spirit of helping families in need this holiday season, part of the money donated by brothers was donated to the Capital Area Food Bank to provide 500 meals. Fraternally, Brother Timothy Fitzgerald
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Mu Lambda partnered with Martha’s Table Adopt a Market. Joyful Food Markets currently support 53 elementary schools in Wards 7 & 8. Brothers Samuel Armstrong, Aaron Cheese, and Eddie Neal volunteered Wednesday, December 18th at Turner Elementary School to serve approximately 175 families. Mu Lambda agreed to volunteer bi-monthly due to other Mu Lambda community service activities. Martha’s Table, in partnership with the Capital Area Food Bank and DC Health, launched Joyful Food Markets to increase access to and encourage consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables east of the Anacostia River. Joyful Food Markets are pop-up monthly markets held in elementary schools in Wards 7 and 8 in Washington, D.C. School families are invited to shop at no-cost for a variety of beautiful high-quality produce, including bananas, apples, greens, and sweet potatoes, as well as basic shelf staples such as pasta and beans. Schools are transformed into joyful environments with music, dancing, and colorful tables filled with baskets of fresh produce and healthy non-perishable food. In addition, the markets feature kids’ activities and recipe samples designed to get children excited about healthy eating and cooking. In addition to delivering food to the children, singer-songwriter, Raheem DeVaughn, was onsite hosting a toy drive and wanted to convey to the Mu Lambda brothers that he appreciates our service in the community. Fraternally, Brother Samuel Armstrong Chair, Community Service Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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Martha’s Table continued
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Martha’s Table continued
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Contact us at ads@mulambda.org
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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
6426 Branch Avenue, Temple Hills, MD 301-449-3030 2950 Donnell Drive, District Heights, MD 301-568-8883 6254 Central Avenue, Seat Pleasant, MD 301-333-5900 4269 Branch Avenue #54, Temple Hills, MD 301-839-0330 9509 Livingston Road, Fort Washington, MD 301-248-3030 10367 Southern Maryland Blvd, Dunkirk, MD 410-286-0700 14606 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 301-952-1133 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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AKSTAR APPAREL STORE WWW.AKSTARAPPAREL.COM
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Mu Lambda Brother Rawn James, Jr. A graduate of Yale University and Duke University School of Law, Rawn James, Jr. has practiced law for over a decade in Washington, D.C, where he lives with his wife and their two sons.
Learn more at www.rawnjames.com
Places where you can purchase his books JANUARY 2020 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 71
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MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
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
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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
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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.
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V • 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.
The Crone Esquivel Group, LLC The vision of The Crone Esquivel Group, LLC is to connect, care, and be compassionate to all seeking wellness. Understanding relationship is foundational to improved clinical outcomes, the Crone Esquivel Group, LLC strives to support clients through connectedness, care, and compassion, while coaching and counseling to create “effective new emotional paradigms” leading to wellness. Our approach to therapy is a modern and unique approach that allows individuals, couples and families focus on long-term relationships, sustainable mental health and overall wellness. Our areas of expertise include working in various settings ranging from community mental health, College Counseling Center, as well as private practice with transition-age youth, working professionals, LGBTQ+, First Generation Immigration and families
www.croneesquivelgroupllc.com
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Visit the “Contact Us” tab to schedule a 15 minute consultation. JANUARY 2020 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 73
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Message from the Editor Greeting Brother of Mu Lambda, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!! We start this new year off with sad hearts. 2019 was an excellent year, but we bared too many losses. Here today and gone tomorrow. I encourage each of you Brothers to reach out more, communicate more, and visit more this year. Take a moment to speak to each other, introduce yourself, and, most of all, re-build or build relationships with your family and brothers. How much time do any of us have before the creator calls any of us home? Don’t wait and make excuses! 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.”
Take a step out of your environment, your crew, or click and begin to build a stronger bond we were supposed to develop as Brothers. Call a brother you don’t usually speak with outside of meetings, events, or programs. When a brother’s wife calls your Chapter for help or with a need for that particular brother, she should not be a stranger to the Chapter or hesitant. She should be confident to know that brothers will act in some way. A brother in need should never doubt that his brothers will stand for him and deliver. And if we as a chapter or Fraternity are unable to be there for our own, then what type of Brotherhood do we have in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.? How can we be better Alpha Men in 2020 than we were in 2019?
Brother Henry L. Dickason, 6th 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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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 2019-2020 fraternal year runs September 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020. The chapter does not meet during July and August. It is now time to pay your 2019-2020 dues which will cover you from January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2020. You chapter dues and grand tax, if you are not a life member, are due before November 15, 2019, or a late fee will be applied. Ways to make payment: 1. You can pay your dues on mulambda.org by clicking the dues tab at the bottom left of every web page. 2. Bring a check to the chapter meeting. 3. 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.