NOVEMBER 2019
THE
FIRST OF ALL, SERVANTS OF ALL, WE SHALL TRANSCEND ALL
THE OFFICIAL NEWS SOURCE OF ------
TORCH
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
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brotherhood 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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In this Issue
Charter Members
Past Presidents
1 Front Cover Picture by Names 2 In this Issue, Charter Members, Past Presidents 3 Upcoming Events 4 Message from the Health and Wellness Mu Lambda & Beta co-sponsor self-defense class 5 Founders Day Wreath Laying - Jewel Murray 6 Operation Holiday Giveback 7 Project Alpha 8 Goto HS Goto College 9 Founders Day Wreath Laying - Jewel Ogle 10 Mu Lambda 2019 Gala 11 Executive Board, The Presidents’ Message 13 Who Will Be Our Next General President? 14 Committee Chairs & The Vice Presidents’ Message 15 Omega Chapter 16 Mu Lambda Mourns the Death of A Former Project Alpha Participant 17 Message from the Membership & Reclamation Chair, Alphaversary and Birthday 18 Reclamation Letter 19 District of Columbia National Panhellenic Council 20 Food, Dessert and Drink of the Month
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*
1. Harold Stratton* 2. Howard H. Long* 3. Charles H. Wesley* 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* 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* 21. William F. Nelson* 22. Aubrey E. Robinson* 23. Joseph Waddy* 24. Edward J. Austin* 25. Elgy Johnson* 26. George H. Windsor* 27. James T. Speight* 28. Harold Sims* 29. Eddie L. Madison* 30. Wilbur Sewell* 31. Charles Walker Thomas* 32. Theodore Taylor* 33. Elmer Moore* 34. William E. Calbert* 35. Osmond Brown* 36. Vernon Gill 37. LeRoy Lowery, III 38. Morris Hawkins* 39. C.C. Jones 40. Vincent Orange 41. Melvin White 42. LeRoy Lowery, III 43. James Haynes 44. Rudolph Harris* 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-current
21 Palliative Care 22 Message from the Alpha Wives 23 The Jewel Lounge
24 32 39 41 42
Charter Day Brunch Highlights The History Of Mu Lambda - Wesley House Eta Eta Lambda’s 60th Anniversary Gala He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother About the Mu Lambda Foundation
44 Combined Federal Campaign 45 The DC ONE FUND
46 AmazonSmile 47 March of Dimes Thank You 48 Certificate of Appreciation 49 Do you know what is happening in the District of Columbia? 50 Message from House of Ruth Committee 51 Message from the Education Committee 52 Project Alpha Highlights 56 Martha’s Table Highlights
60 1st Alpha Self-defense Community session Beta Self-Defense Training 61 Chamber’s Choice Awards and Gala 63 Mu Lambda donates 10 suits to the homeless 64 President’s Volunteer Service Award Letter 65 Dental Implants, Are They Worth It? 66 Congratulations to the Washington Nationals & Washington Mystics 67 Advertise with us 68 Domino’s 69 AKStar Apparel Ad 70 East State Street Band 71 Mu Lambda Brother Rawn James, Jr. 72 Exit Realty - Brother Albert A. Williams 73 Financial Planning Needs, The Crone Esquivel Group 74 Message from the Editor 75 Esprit de Fraternite
CHARTERED ON MONDAY OCTOBER 1, 1923 WASHINGTON, D.C.
* Omega Chapter Brothers
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Saturday, November 2nd Thursday, November 7th Saturday, November 9th Monday, November 11th Thursday, November 14th Tuesday, November 19th Wednesday, November 20th Thursday, November 21st Saturday, November 23rd Tuesday, November 26th Thursday, November 28th Saturday, November 30th
MAAC Conference Chapter meeting Alpha Wives meeting Veterans Day Mu Lambda Health and Wellness Committee meeting Henry Arthur Callis Academy Executive Board meeting Mu Lambda Foundation Board meeting Dinner at House of Ruth DC PanHellenic Council meeting Happy Thanksgiving Wreath Laying Ceremony for Jewel Nathaniel A. Murray
Wednesday, December 4th Thursday, December 5th Saturday, December 7th Thursday, December 12th Saturday, December 14th Tuesday, December 17th
Alpha Phi Alpha turns 113 Chapter meeting MAAC Breakfast Wreath Laying Ceremony for Jewel Robert H. Ogle Mu Lambda Health and Wellness Committee meeting Alpha Wives meeting DC PanHellenic Council meeting Henry Arthur Callis Academy Executive Board meeting Mu Lambda Foundation Board meeting Deliver holiday baskets to families Dinner at House of Ruth Merry Christmas
Wednesday, December 18th Thursday, December 19th Friday, December 20th Saturday, December 21st Wednesday, December 25th
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Message from the Health and Wellness Committee Halloween, Thursday, October 31st, the Health and Wellness Committee in conjunction with Beta Chapter taught a self-defense class to approximately 60 college males on the campus of Howard University. Brother Neal taught the gentlemen eight self-defense techniques to be used in the event of an attack: How to defend against a punch to the face, how to defend against a hook from a distance, how to defend against a hook in close range, how to defend against a kick to the groin, how to defend against a grab to the chest, how to defend against a bear hug, how to defend against a full nelson grab, and how to get out of a head lock.
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January 2020
The honor of your presence is requested for Dinner & Dancing at the
MU LAMBDA 2020 GALA & 96TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC.
Where:
The Duke Ellington School of the Arts 3500 R Street Northwest, Washington, DC 20001
Time:
7:06 PM to Midnight
Starting at $125.00
Dress:
Jewel Tables:
Black Tie
Tickets: $1,500.00
FOR TICKETS VISIT: 96mulambdagala.eventbrite.com NOVEMBER 2019 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------10
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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 Antonio King Dir. Ed. Activities Sean Perkins Sergeant-at-Arms Frank King Parliamentarian Byron L. Williams Web Master Mark Jones 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
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
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The Presidents’ Message Brothers, I recently attended an event where our Eastern Region Vice President spoke. His words were resounding and true. He said we are at a time in Alpha history where we are not doing enough advocacy. I ask why in 2019, his statement rings true, which forced me to look at Mu Lambda from a generational perspective. Mu Lambda’s membership extends six generations. Very few chapters have such a broad membership. Generations exhibit similar characteristics such as communication, shopping, and motivation because they experienced similar trends at approximately the same life stage and through similar modes (e.g. online, TV, and mobile). Generation trends are most obvious as people come of age. While everyone is different as an individual, looking at people through a generational lens offers predictability. Three key trends that shape generations are parenting, technology, and economics. Generation GI (born 1901-1926) - Children of the WWI generation and fighters in WWII and young in the Great Depression…all leading to strong models of teamwork to overcome and progress. Their Depression was The Great One; their war was The Big One; their prosperity was the legendary Happy Days. They saved the world and then built a nation. They are the assertive and energetic doers. Excellent team players. Community-minded. Strongly interested in personal morality and near-absolute standards of right and wrong. Strong sense of personal civic duty, which means they vote. Marriage is for life, divorce and having children out of wedlock were not accepted. Strong loyalty to jobs, groups, schools, etc. There was no “retirement” you worked until your died or couldn’t work anymore. The labor-union-spawning generation. “Use it up, fix it up, make it do, or do without.” Avoid debt…save and buy with cash. Age of radio and air flight; they were the generation that remembers life without airplanes, radio, and TV. Most of them grew up without modern conveniences like refrigerators, electricity and air conditioning. Sometimes called The Greatest Generation. Matures (born 1927-1945) - Went through their formative years during an era of suffocating conformity, but also during the postwar happiness: Peace! Jobs! Suburbs! Television! Rock ‘n Roll! Cars! Playboy Magazine! Korean and Vietnam War generation. The First Hopeful Drumbeats of Civil Rights! Pre-feminism women; women stayed home generally to raise children, if they worked it was only certain jobs like teacher, nurse or secretary. Men pledged loyalty to the corporation, once you got a job, you generally kept it for life. The richest, most free-spending retirees in history. Marriage is for life, divorce and having children out of wedlock were not accepted. In grade school, the gravest teacher complaints were about passing notes and chewing gum in class. They are avid readers, especially newspapers. “Retirement” means to sit in a rocking chair and live your final days in peace. The Big-Band/Swing music generation. Strong sense of trans-generational common values and near-absolute truths. Disciplined, selfsacrificing, & cautious. Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) - The save-the-world revolutionaries of the ’60s and ’70s; and the party-hardy career climbers (Yuppies) of the ’70s/’80s. The “me” generation. “Rock and roll” music generation. Ushered in the free love and societal “non-violent” protests which triggered violence. Self-righteous and selfcentered. Buy it now and use credit. Too busy for much neighborly involvement yet strong desires to reset or change the common values for the good of all. Even though their mothers were generally housewives, responsible for all child rearing, women of this generation began working outside the home in record numbers, thereby changing the entire nation as this was the first generation to have their own children raised in a two-income household where to be accepted as a tolerable reality. Optimistic, driven, team-oriented. Envision technology and innovation as requiring a learning process. Tend to be more positive about
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Presidents’ Message Continued authority, hierarchal structure and tradition. One of the largest generations in history with 77 million people. Their aging will change America almost incomprehensibly; they are the first generation to use the word “retirement” to mean being able to enjoy life after the children have left home. Instead of sitting in a rocking chair, they go skydiving, exercise and take up hobbies, which increases their longevity. The American Youth Culture that began with them is now ending with them and their activism is beginning to re-emerge. Generation X (born 1965-1976) - The “latch-key kids” grew up street-smart but isolated, often with divorced or career-driven parents. Entrepreneurial. Very individualistic. Government and big business mean little to them. Want to save the neighborhood, not the world. Feel misunderstood by other generations. Cynical of many major institutions, which failed their parents, or them, during their formative years and are therefore eager to make marriage work and “be there” for their children. Don’t “feel” like a generation, but they are. Raised in the transition phase of written based knowledge to digital knowledge archives; most remember being in school without computers and then after the introduction of computers in middle school or high school. Desire a chance to learn, explore and make a contribution. Tend to commit to self rather than an organization or specific career. This generation averages 7 career changes in their lifetime, it was not normal to work for a company for life, unlike previous generations. Society and thus individuals are envisioned as disposable. Beginning obsession of individual rights prevailing over the common good, especially if it is applicable to any type of minority group. Raised by the career and money conscious Boomers amidst the societal disappointment over governmental authority and the Vietnam war. School problems were about drugs. Late to marry (after cohabitation) and quick to divorce…many single parents. Into labels and brand names. Want what they want and want it now but struggling to buy, and most are deeply in credit card debt. It has been researched that they may be conversationally shallow because relating consists of shared time watching video movies, instead of previous generations. Short on loyalty and wary of commitment; all values are relative…must tolerate all people. Selfabsorbed and suspicious of all organization. Survivors as individuals. Cautious, skeptical, unimpressed with authority, self-reliant.
pressure. They feel like a generation and have great expectations for themselves. Prefer digital literacy as they grew up in a digital environment. Have never known a world without computers. They get all their information and most of their socialization from the Internet. Prefer to work in teams. With unlimited access to information tend to be assertive with strong views. Envision the world as a 24/7 place; want fast and immediate processing. They have been told over and over again that they are special, and they expect the world to treat them that way. They do not live to work; they prefer a more relaxed work environment with a lot of hand holding and accolades. Generation Z (born 1996 and later) - In 2006 there were a record number of births in the US and 49% of those born were Hispanic, this will change the American melting pot in terms of behavior and culture. The number of births in 2006 far outnumbered the start of the baby boom generation, and they will easily be a larger generation. Since the early 1700’s the most common last name in the US was ‘Smith’ but not anymore, now it is Rodriguez. They have never known a world without computers and cell phones. Have Eco-fatigue: they are actually tired of hearing about the environment and the many ways we have to save it. With the advent of computers and web-based learning, children leave behind toys at younger ages. As children reach the age of four and five, old enough to play on the computer, they become less interested in toys and begin to desire electronics such as cell phones and video games. They know what they want and how to get it and they are over saturated with brands. In closing, I think Mu Lambda has done a good job of coexisting but keeping the above in mind might help us grow in ways we have never grown. Fraternally, Brother Eddie Neal, President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
Millennials (born 1977-1995) - They are nurtured by omnipresent parents, optimistic, and focused. Respect authority. Falling crime rates. Falling teen pregnancy rates. But with school safety problems; they have to live with the thought that they could be shot at school, they learned early that the world is not a safe place. They schedule everything. They feel enormous academic NOVEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12
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Who Will Be Our Next General President? Willis L. Lonzer, III or Roderick L. Smothers, Sr. will be our next General President. They have both served as college chapter presidents, alumni chapter presidents, and Regional Vice Presidents for their respective region. They both hold doctorate degrees. Mu Lambda as an educated chapter must research their records and compare it to their campaign rhetoric to determine who should represent us as the next General President. Just a few thoughts off the top of my head of what I think we should research. I personally do not care about who is a member of their campaign team because that person will not be governing our future. I want to know what campaign promises they made when they were running for their regional position and how many of those promises were kept. If they were unable to fulfill their prior campaign promises, I would like to know the reason. I want to know how they ran their region. What did they add to the region? How was the region functioning before their
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tenure, during their tenure, and how they left it? What type of leaders were they? Are they capable of fulfilling their current campaign promises? Are their philosophies relevant to Alpha now and in the future? How well do they work with others? How will their ideas hurt or improve the fraternity? What were their voting records when they were RVPs – did their votes help or hurt the fraternity? Will their face as the face of the fraternity help or hurt? Are they fiscally responsible? Are their proposed policies fiscally responsible? Are they proactive or reactive leaders? Do they honor their word? How does he plan to deal with the large number of inactive brothers? How did they manage their time and resources as a RVP? I would like to know their prior regions feelings on how they feel the region was run under their leadership. I would like to know how other national board members viewed them. Fraternally, Brother Eddie Neal President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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Committee Chairs
The Vice Presidents’ Message
Auditing Mark Ross
Greeting Brothers,
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 Health & Wellness Alvin L. Reaves, III Membership Timothy Fitzgerald Men Who Cook Garrett Miller 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
I hope that this message finds you in good great health and spirit. We often find ourselves caught up in the day-to-day ruckus and forget to stop and take time and acknowledge just how precious this life is. I say this because we never know what’s instore for us from one day to the next and with November upon us, we’re reminded that the holiday seasons will be also. I was also in the room with Brother President absorbing the message delivered by our Eastern Region Vice President. I concur with the message he presented to those in attendance, we as Alpha Men are not doing enough as it pertains to advocacy. As I think about all the members, not just Mu Lambda, but other chapters throughout the fraternity, intelligent well-educated men of color - there should never be a reason to not do more when it comes to advocacy. Advocating for those in our communities that are most vulnerable so that they may have their voice heard on issues important to them and to also defend and safeguard their rights are things we should do daily. As I digress back to the month of November, I think there is no better time than now to put forth a few more minutes of your time to find that voice for a person(s) who may not have one. I recently traveled to Saint George’s Grenada for a few days and I had time to, yes relax, but also observe the culture of people who have very little to nothing, but walked up to me and asked, “if there was anything they could do, or was I lost?” Maybe, I did look a bit out of place, but the point was, they just wanted to help and asked for nothing in return. I soon discovered that everywhere I traveled on the island exerted the same hospitality. I left the island feeling humbled and blessed to have been able to be approached by strangers who only wanted to offer assistance and to ensure I was okay and enjoying myself. It also left me feeling a desire to want to do more for others. Brothers, as we go forth into the month of November, whether you are devoting time to community service, chairing a committee or working on a committee, please remember there are those that have far less and at times only desire to be recognized as someone who matters and belong. In closing I would also like to wish Brother Kelvin Brown much success on his campaign trail as he moves forward on his political journey. If there’s a brother looking to chair the public policy committee, please reach out to me as soon as possible. Continue the great work brothers! Fraternally, Brother Garrett Miller Vice-President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
Social Media Committe Jeremy Triplett NOVEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14
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Omega Chapter Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Mu Lambda Chapter Dear Brothers, Thanks to all of the brothers who attended at Brothers Cain Hope Felder (October 19, 2019) and James Donaldson (October 26, 2019) Omega Services. I am sure both families appreciated our service as did the congregation that filled the sanctuary at the Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel at Cramton Auditorium. I would like to take this opportunity to extend thanks to the young brothers in Beta Chapter who attended and played a vital role in both Omega Services. The served as ushers for Brother Felder and pallbearers for Brother Donaldson.
Brother Cain Hope Felder
Brother James A. Donaldson
Chapter of Initiation: Beta 1964 Born: Wednesday, June 9, 1943 Omega Chapter: October 1, 2019
Chapter of Initiation: Nu Chapter Initiated: Saturday, October 11, 1958 Born: Thursday, April 17, 1941 Omega Chapter: October 18, 2019
Brother Felder was initiated in 1964 in Beta Chapter at Howard University. He was an Alpha Brother for some 55 years and a distinguished theologian and professor of New Testament language and literature in the Howard University School of Divinity. His Dean of Pledges, Brother Rev. Oscar King of Northwest Unity Baptist Church in Detroit, MI, gave the Words of Tribute.
Brother Donaldson was initiated in 1958 in Nu Chapter at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. He was an Alpha Brother for some 61 years, and a distinguished professor of mathematics and dean at Howard University among many other accomplishments. Brother Ambassador Horace Dawson gave the Words of Tribute.
Farewell dear Brothers
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Mu Lambda Mourns the Death of A Former Project Alpha Participant Brothers, Several months ago, I stood before the chapter and discussed my experience of playing basketball with the young men at Hart Middle School. I also shared with you that unbeknownst to me, a neighborhood youth had just been murdered days before. The young men and I had an enjoyable game of basketball and at the conclusion of the game, I gave them $20 to buy refreshments on their way home. It saddens me to report to you that the young man in the lower-left corner with the dark t-shirt is the same young man referenced in the news article below. I will never forget any of the young men but I ask you (my brothers), can we do more to save our young black men? A 15-year-old girl has been charged with the murder of a teenage boy who was stabbed aboard a Metro train
in Washington DC. Police say 15-year-old Jaquar McNair was stabbed inside an Orange Line Metro train near the US Capitol on Friday. The boy succumbed to his injuries. The stabbing occurred on a Friday at the Capitol South Metro station, about a block from the Cannon House Office Building, where some House members have offices.Police said the attack arose from a dispute among a group of teenagers. They said McNair was taken the hospital and underwent surgery. The girl, whose name has not yet been released, was arrested on a charge of assault with the intent to kill. The charge was upgraded to First Degree Murder following McNair's death. Eddie Neal, President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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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 Malcolm D. Jackson Drew Love William Thomas Rawn James Bryant Young James McDonald Wiley Bowling Louis Cook
November 6 November 7 November 13 November 14 November 26 November 27 November 29 November 30
William Thomas Mario Beatty Aaron Cheese Kelvin McClinton Jabari Hawkins Walter Robinson Malcolm D. Jackson Joseph Housey William Thomas Mario Simpson Christopher Butts Guy Durant Eric Herndon Timothy Fitzgerald Sulaiman Almaroof Frank King Coy Lindsay Garrett Miller Alexander Pullen Keone Thomas Rudolph Scipio Lucius Brown James Haynes Carlos DeBose Jamaal Crone
November 1 November 4 November 5 November 9 November 9 November 9 November 11 November 11 November 12 November 12 November 13 November 15 November 16 November 18 November 19 November 19 November 19 November 19 November 19 November 19 November 22 November 24 November 27 November 29 November 30
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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-six 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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Message from the DC NPHC Committee Meeting Host - Alpha Phi Alpha OLA Chapter at Howard University School of Dentistry Alpha Chapters - ML, OLA, OHL ML Bro. - Antonio King, Albert Williams Meeting began 7:06pm Roll Call Financial Secretary • Invoice went out to all chapters for DC NPHC Due $125 • Late fees after Nov. 19th Treasurer • See packet for info Social Media Report • 972 followers • Will introduce new items to the eBoard to increase access Reporter • Events are in the Newsletter • Need to send photos NLT - Nov. 15th to be included in the upcoming newsletter Presidents • APA ML 1st • • •
Time Visitors ML - Al Williams Sigma Gamma Rho Zeta Phi Beta
Presidents Report • Vacancies • Scholarship • Moral and Amenities • Nomination Committee •
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Presidents Meeting in Dec. 2019 - looking to get response back on availability. Will have date by Nov. Meeting. Asked for new Delegate to stand - there will be a new Delegates meeting next month. All Delegates need to register at the end of the meeting.
1. Need to increase Community involvement in the DC Areas 2. Sickle Cell Research - large numbers in the African American community
3. Have been updating the website 4. Dcnphc.org - Latest updates • • • • • • •
Showed the pages of the website and presidents message. Natural History Page of the DC NPHC Executive Board section & eBoard will display head shots Members only page to download the monthly packet - Password will be sent to all Delegates Updating the - About DC NPHC Page - too All updated to be completed by the next Chapter meeting dcnphcwebmaster@gmail.com for all comments and change request - Need another two weeks to get site correct.
1st VP Reports • Dec. 1st - Application for Draping DC - Need to send back Compete to get recognition for activities in DC. • Scoring is in the documents • May begin collecting Donations Now. • Collect Items needed in the community • • • •
We all need to support other D9 events. Need volunteers for Draper DC. Submit events to dcnphc1930@ gmail.com Regional Draper event for all 11 NPHC orgs in the area is in Feb. 2020.
Under Grad Relations • Great meeting with UDC By Laws • Packet includes copy of drafted By-Laws. Looking for feedback on the by-laws. • Looking to host a parliamentary training session each month. • Looking for committee members to support. • Deadline/timeline to update the by-laws will be presented next month.
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set at $7,900 and expenses are expected to match. Thuy asked about money for community service.
Fundraising • Net Profit from Skate Party $1,789.88 • Nov. 23rd - Basketball Turkey Ball • Dec. 7th - Holiday Toy Drive • Planning events for Valentines Day - Dates are TBD • Planning for St. Patricks Day Raffle tickets • Looking for all chapters collectively to sell $2,500 worth of tickets. Memorials and Amenities • See the packet • Recommended that we meet the Greek Anniversary date for all Delegates • Asked to make document available on Google Docs. • Looking to move away from the Yahoo Groups Audit • Closed out the FY 2019 year • Talked about repeat finding that need to be corrected with Presidents receipts • All expenses and funding has been accounted for. • Recommended a corrective action plan be put in place Next Meeting - Nov. 19th - at Delta Sigma Theta Announcements • OLA Holiday Party • D9 Film Festival in Feb. 2020 Tickets go on Sale in Nov. 2019. National Panhellenic Conference Memphis, TN • Use the new #strongerasonedcnphc • #united Bro. Derrick A. Butts DC NPHC Delegate Alpha Phi Alpha - Mu Lambda
Budget -
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Cacio e Pepe with bacon (Zucchini Noodles)
in the cheeses. Toss to combine thoroughly and then plate into two bowls. Top each bowl with a few more cranks of black pepper and crumble over a piece and a half of bacon in each bowl. Garnish with additional parmigiano reggiano cheese. Brother Derrick A. Butts
Apple Harvest Pound Cake with Caramel Glaze
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apples and walnuts using a spoon. Pour into the prepared pan. 3. Bake for 1 hour and 20 minutes in the preheated oven, until a toothpick inserted into the crown or the cake comes out clean. Allow to cool for about 20 minutes then invert on to a wire rack. 4. Make the glaze by heating the butter, milk and brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar, then remove from the heat. Drizzle over the warm cake. I like to place a sheet of aluminum foil under the cooling rack to catch the drips for easy clean up. Brother Garrett Miller
Yields - Dinner for two Prep Time - 10 mins Cook Time - 10 mins • 3 strips of bacon • 1 large garlic clove, minced • 1 pinch of red pepper flakes • 3 medium zucchinis, Blade C • freshly cracked black pepper, from a grinder • 1/4 cup grated pecorino romano cheese • 1/4 cup grated parmigiano reggiano cheese + more to garnish INSTRUCTIONS Place a large skillet over medium heat and coat lightly with cooking spray. Add in the bacon and cook for 3-5 minutes and then flip over, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Once done, remove and place on a paper-towel lined plate. Remove all of the oil from the bacon except for 2 tbsp. Add in the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds. Then, add in the zucchini noodles and toss to cook, for about 2-3 minutes. Season the zucchini with about 5 cracks of the pepper and add
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
2 cups white sugar 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil (Wesson) 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 3 eggs ½ cup of Sour Cream 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon salt 2 medium Granny Smith apples - peeled, cored and chopped 1 cup chopped walnuts 1/2 cup butter 2 teaspoons milk 1/2 cup brown sugar Add all ingredients to list
1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9 inch Bundt pan. 2. In a large bowl, beat the sugar, oil, vanilla and eggs with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt; stir into the batter just until blended. Fold in the
Vodka Cranberry Lemonade Punch
Ingredients: • • • • •
8 8 8 4 1
ounces cranberry juice ounces sparkling lemonade ounces vodka ounces pineapple juice cup frozen cranberries
Directions: Combine the cranberry juice, lemonade, vodka and pineapple juice in a pitcher filled with ice and stir. Divide among punch glasses and garnish with the frozen cranberries. Brother Drew Love
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Palliative Care What You Should Know
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
To learn more about palliative care, go to getpalliativecare.org
Palliative Care (pronounced pal-lee-uh-tiv) is specialized medical care for people with serious illness. This type of care is focused on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. The goal is to improve quality of life for both the patient and the family. Palliative care is provided by a specially-trained team of doctors, nurses and other specialists who work together with a patient’s other doctors to provide an extra layer of support. It is appropriate at any age and at any stage in a serious illness, and it can be provided along with curative treatment.
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WHERE DO I RECEIVE PALLIATIVE CARE?
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WHO PROVIDES PALLIATIVE CARE?
Palliative care can be provided in a variety of settings including the hospital, outpatient clinic and at home.
Palliative care is provided by a team including palliative care doctors, nurses and other specialists.
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DOES MY INSURANCE PAY FOR PALLIATIVE CARE?
Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover palliative care.
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HOW DO I KNOW IF PALLIATIVE CARE IS RIGHT FOR ME?
Palliative care may be right for you if you suffer from pain, stress or other symptoms due to a serious illness. Serious illnesses may include cancer, heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, Alzheimer’s, HIV/AIDS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s and more. Palliative care can be provided at any stage of illness and along with treatment meant to cure you.
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HOW DOES PALLIATIVE CARE WORK WITH MY OWN DOCTOR?
The palliative care team works in partnership with other doctors to provide an extra layer of support for you and your family. The team provides expert symptom manage-ment, extra time for communication about your goals and treatment options and help navigating the health system.
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HOW DO I GET PALLIATIVE CARE?
You have to ask for it! Just tell your doctors and nurses that you would like to see the palliative care team. You can start with the Provider Directory on GetPalliativeCare.org. That’s where you can find palliative care in your area, quickly and easily.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM PALLIATIVE CARE?
You can expect relief from symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, constipation, nausea, loss of appetite and difficulty sleeping. Palliative care helps you carry on with your daily life. It improves your ability to go through medical treatments. It helps you better understand your condition and your choices for medical care. In short, you can expect the best possible quality of life.
Copyright 2019 © Center to Advance Palliative Care. All rights reserved.
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Message from the Alpha Wives of Washington, D.C. Inc. November is often viewed as a month of thanksgiving. It is also designated as National Gratitude Month. As we move into this season of thanksgiving, let’s recognize that practicing daily gratitude gives us a deeper connection to ourselves, the world around us, and to our Creator. As an organization, the Alpha Wives are grateful for the opportunity to serve the local community by providing scholarships to DC students. We are grateful to support the many efforts of Mu Lambda Chapter, and we appreciate Mu Lambda’s support of our programs. At the November meeting, the Alpha Wives will reinstitute its Speaker’s Series. Special thanks to Mu Lambda President, Bro. Eddie Neal, who will serve as our first speaker in a discussion on wills and trusts. Also, in December, we will host our Holiday Social and book drive, and in March 2020, we will host our very first Mobile Paint and Sip Party. More details to follow. In the October 2019 issue of the Alpha Wives newsletter, we highlighted Alpha Wife Etta Green, who has been a part of the organization for 38 years. She was introduced to the Alpha Wives through her husband, Chester Green, who was a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha, having served 65 years, and other wives who attended church with her at Michigan Park Christian Church in Washington, D.C. During the interview, she humbly described editing three publications for the White House as well as writing talking points for Presidents Johnson, Nixon, Ford, Carter, and Reagan, under whom she retired. She states that President Nixon loved her notes for the President’s Commission on the State of Women so much that he actually read them word for word. Also, on October 19th, members of the Alpha Wives joined members of Mu Lambda Chapter at a gala hosted by the Eta Eta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha, Fraternity, Inc., as they celebrated 60 years. Finally, our next meeting is Saturday, November 9, 2019, beginning with our repast at 12:30 p.m. followed by the meeting at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will take place at the Mu Lambda Community House, 2405 First Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001. Please share information about our organization with your wives, who may contact me directly at alphawivesdc@gmail.com. Sincerely, Claudia J. Postell, Esq. President Alpha Wives of Washington, D.C. 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
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Charter Day Brunch Highlights
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Charter Day Brunch Highlights continued
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Charter Day Brunch Highlights continued
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Charter Day Brunch Highlights continued
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Charter Day Brunch Highlights continued
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Charter Day Brunch Highlights continued
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Charter Day Brunch Highlights continued
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The History Of Mu Lambda - Wesley House
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Mu Lambda Brothers Attend Eta Eta Lambda’s 60th Anniversary Gala Saturday, October 19 th , Alpha Wives Charlotte Douglass and Claudia Postell along with Brothers Gilbert Douglass, Timothy Fitzgerald, Kenneth Holbert, Jason Jefferson, Garrett Miller, Eddie Neal, and John Mark Williams visited the brothers of Eta Eta Lambda Chapter (Annapolis, Maryland) to celebrate their 60 years of chartering. Brother Holbert took time out of his schedule to entertain the ladies with some of his smooth dance moves. A special thanks to Brothers Carlos DeBose and Joseph Gibbs for sponsoring the tickets of our senior brothers. Mu Lambda has the belief that to get the true appreciation of the fraternity, brotherly bonds and acts of kindness must extend beyond our Mu Lambda affiliation. I wish the brothers of Eta Eta Lambda years of continued success. The brothers of Eta Eta Lambda may not recall but Mu Lambda purchased a table to its 50 th Anniversary Gala at the Double Tree Hotel in Annapolis and its Founder’s Day Celebration last year at Two Rivers Community Center in Odenton, Maryland. Mu Lambda has consistently supported Eta Eta Lambda’s boat rides and crab feasts. It is my hope that Mu Lambda’s unselfish support of other chapters will allow all to see that Alpha Phi Alpha is bigger than any chapter. Fraternally, Brother Eddie Neal President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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Eta Eta Lambda 60th Anniversary Gala continued
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He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother Sunday, October 27th was a cold rainy morning. I returned home early Sunday morning from attending the DC Chamber’s gala the night before. I rose, tired and weary – dreading my drive to Brandywine. In route to the location, there were severe showers. I said to myself, maybe that’s a sign I should have stayed in bed. I finally conceded that I had to honor my word. I agreed to attend the crossing ceremony of Brother Kenneth Williams’ son while he was out of town and unable to attend. Driving through the cold and rain – I recited the following. When I arrived in Brandywine – the sun came and the temperature rose. Our family trees are not the same; we both have a different mother And yet I’d proudly tell the world that this man is my brother. It’s like we’ve lived our lives together, though we meet for the first time. As this powerful sense of brotherhood makes everything seem fine. Spectators stand and look with awe as we do our secret shake. Never realizing that this clasping of hands DOES NOT a brother make. We are brothers in a deeper sense than they can comprehend. For when our bond has just begun, theirs is about to end. When we were searching for the light, as all Sphinx men must do. They stood aside and laughed out loud and said “I wouldn’t do that, would you?” And yet when we had crossed those sands, and the light we could finally see. They stood aside and whispered softly Oh how I wish it were me! I know the decision I made was wise, of this I’m sure and have no doubt. Each day in my life will have blue skies for I’m an ALPHA from here on out. And never again will I be lonely for I have brothers everywhere. In cities of population two, I even have a brother there. There is nothing in this whole wide world that we wouldn’t do for one another. I’m sure I’d even give my life to save that of my brother. But there are still those in darkness who cannot understand why I share the burden which belongs to another man When asked “Why weigh yourself down with the load of another?” I simply smile at them and say, he ain’t heavy, He’s my Brother!!! Fraternally, Brother Eddie Neal President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
Senior Brothers Richardson and Holbert are guests at October 5, 2019 HUD Retired Ladies’ Gala celebrating 10th Anniversary of Luncheons at Camelot by Martin’s Upper Marlboro, Maryland.
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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. The goals of Project Alpha programs are: 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. 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
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BOARD OF DIRECTORS LeRoy Lowery, III President Juan H. Powell Vice-President Chatman K. Young, II Treasurer John Barnett Ryle A. Bell, D.D.S. Malcolm B. Carter 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 NOVEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 43
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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. NOVEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 44
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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. NOVEMBER 2019 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 45
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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.
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Hello to all the wonderful men. I wanted to take a minute to say THANK YOU to all the Alpha Phi Alpha Team Captains that helped with the March for Babies campaign this year. Please take a minute to view this special message and share with your brothers. Thank you Alpha Phi Alpha Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=irozUsq2k18&feature=youtu.be In addition, I wanted to share the March of Dimes and Zeta Phi Beta Prematurity Awareness Program toolkit. Please let me know if you have any questions. Have a blessed day! Sincerely, Jennifer S. Abell Senior Development Manager Greater Washington DC Market 1550 Crystal Drive, Suite 1300 Arlington VA 22202 T (571) 257-2310 M (301) 659-4112 MARCHOFDIMES.ORG
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Do You Know What is Happening in the District of Columbia? Friday, October 4th, Brothers LeRoy Lowery, Garrett Miller, and Eddie Neal, attended the DC Chamber of Commerce State of the District and Region Conference. The DC Chamber’s President and CEO is a Mu Lambda past president, Brother Vincent Bernard Orange, Sr. Brother Orange remains financial with Mu Lambda. One of the most important messages taken from the conference was the DC Chamber of Commerce’s focus of ADVOCACY. The DC Chamber will advocate for economic and regulatory competitiveness to support growth and retention of start-up businesses. The DC Chamber will expand its advocacy efforts for using the District’s resources. The DC Chamber will advocate for policies that help eliminate racial bias in banking and other lending operations. The DC Chamber will advocate for policies that ensure DC residents are able to benefit from the District’s strong job base. The DC Chamber will advocate for policies that ensure that growing establishments do not relocate to other parts of the Washington metropolitan area. The DC Chamber will advocate for a tax regime that would provide a stable, predictable, and competitive tax environment for all types of businesses in DC. The DC Chamber will advocate for more streamlined processes for doing business in DC. The DC Chamber will advocate for education policies that will help each DC public or charter school achieve high school graduation rates of 80 percent or higher.
You cannot make change if you cannot get a seat at the table. Brother Orange ensures Mu Lambda is informed and that we have a seat at the table. He also kept us abreast of matters impacting the District of Columbia when he was a Ward 5 Councilman. The District has become an attractive place to live in recent years and has experienced strong population growth. While that might be a good thing for some, many residents are not experiencing the positives of the growth. Not only is DC a particularly expensive place to live, bit it offers the weakest paths to upward economic mobility for children who live in low-income households. Children in DC actually experience lower future incomes when they are older. The conference ended with a very powerful panel consisting of The Honorable Mayor Muriel Bowser, Mayor of the District of Columbia; The Honorable Anthony Williams, former Mayor of Washington, DC; The Honorable Sharon Pratt, former Mayor of Washington, DC; and The Honorable Angela Alsobrooks, County Executive Prince George’s County Maryland. Fraternally, Brother Eddie Neal President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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Message from the House of Ruth Committee Greetings Brothers, Brothers Garrett Miller and Eddie Neal served the ladies of the House of Ruth on Saturday, October 12th. The October menu was baked salmon, rotisserie chicken, green beans, garlic mashed potatoes, hot buttered rolls, red velvet cake, vanilla ice cream, water, and sweet tea. The ladies were also provided individual red roses. Many thanks are extended to the Alpha Wives for sponsoring the October dinner for the ladies. We are seeking sponsors for the November 23rd meal. If you can cook, the ladies would appreciate your favorite dish. If you cannot cook and are willing to donate the funds or the ingredients, we will work with you to turn it into a wonderful meal for the ladies. We have not built the food service into the chapter’s 2019-2020 budget. We serve the ladies once per month and 12 times per year. If a group of 12 different brothers per month prepare a dish, we can feed the ladies without burdening the chapter or individual brothers. It does not have to be an elaborate dish – just make sure it is something you would serve a good friend or someone you care about. We do not and will not feed the women scraps. If you are unable to attend and serve the dish, arrangements will be made to serve the dish. We arrive at 3:30 to set the table and serve dinner promptly at 4:30 pm. We aim to serve the ladies a different balanced meal each month. All meals are hot and served on the premises. Please review prior issues of the Torch for a listing of the previous menus.
Fraternally, Brother Garrett Miller Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
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Message from the Education Committee The Education Committee met Monday, September 30, 2019, to formulate the calendar of activities for the program. Brothers Samuel Armstrong, Kent Benjamin, Fabien Holder (Beta Vice President), James Isreal, Sean Perkins, and Alvin Reaves III, participated in the meeting. On Tuesday, October 15, 2019, Brothers Samuel Armstrong, Kenneth Brown (Ballou employee), DeAngelo Copeland, James Isreal (Hart employee), Eddie Neal, Sean Perkins (Director of Education Activities and Ballou employee), and Calvin Ruffin (Ballou employee) met with the young men for Mu Lambda’s Henry Arthur Callis Academy first meeting of the fraternal year. Brother Malcolm Carter provided the pizza and sodas for the young men. The Henry Arthur Callis Academy encompasses the fraternity’s Project Alpha and Go To High School Go To College curriculum. We currently have 41 young me enrolled in the program: 17 12 th grade, three 11 th grade, nine 9 th grade, eight 8 th grade, three 7 th grade, and one 6 th grade. Of the 41 young men enrolled, 27 were in attendance for the first session. Of the 41 enrolled, 16 are returning to the program for their senior year, nine are returning from the Hart Middle School – Project Alpha program, and 16 are new participants to the program. Those in attendance were: Robert Aikens, Stewart Arnold, Daniel Barnes, Ronald Brooks, Omarion Butler, Sahmar Coleman, Cyrell Ellis, JaShawn Evans, Tavon Faunteroy, Durell Ford, Del Lisenby, Jah-Marii Gray, Anthony Martin, Deonte McGriff, Jaelen McMillian, Demondre Phillips, Jaz Pratt, Antonio Ratliff, Mahchi Robinson, Zamari Silver, Joseph Taramalio, Brandon Taylor, Jayden Watson, Ryan Wheeler, Taion White, Phillip Williams, and Dereon Wyatt. Those enrolled but absent were: Gewaun Boomer, Leon Corbin, Christian Harrison, Jalonnie Hawkins, DeAndre Jackson, Kamari King, Savion Lomax, Melvin McMillian, Ralph Nickens, Tremar Richardson, Terrontae Stephens, Armon Thornton, Vincent Wingfield, and Mykel Woodbury. Fraternally, Brother Sean Perkins Director, Education Committee Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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PROJECT ALPHA Highlights
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More Project Alpha Highlights
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More Project Alpha Highlights
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
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More Project Alpha Highlights
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
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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 and 8. Brothers Samuel Armstrong, Kent Benjamin, Timothy Fitzgerald, Mikael LaRoche, Eddie Neal, and Keone Thomas volunteered Thursday, October 17 th at Stanton Elementary School to serve approximately 175 families. Mu Lambda has tentatively 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. Fraternally, Brother Samuel Armstrong Chair, Community Service Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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On Oct. 24, we had four women attend our 1st Alpha Self-defense session open to the community for $10/person. Sixt people paid. The self-defense techniques were greatly appreciated. Our next Community Alpha Self-defense will be in February 2020. Please encourage your spouse, daughters, or girl friend to attend. Brothers Butts, Neal, Desroches, and Desoches's son supported the training for this event.
On Oct. 31st, Bro. Neal worked with Beta Brothers, at Howard University, to teach self-defense techniques to 50 attendees. Training was well received. Future Alpha Self-defense Workshops - Nov. 2019 • House of Ruth - During the second or third week of Nov. Waiting for coordination/ confirmation from HoR Director. (In Process) • Beta/Mu Lambda Self-defense for College Students - Nov. 21st at the Mu Lambda House 6:30pm (Confirmed) NOVEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 60
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Chamber’s Choice Awards and Gala Saturday, October 26th, Mu Lambda President (Eddie Neal), Mu Lambda Foundation President (LeRoy Lowery), Washington DC Alpha Wives President (Claudia Postell), and Washington DC Alpha Wives Historian (Modestine Lowery), attended the DC Chamber of Commerce, Chambers Choice Awards and Gala at the National Building Museum. The Chamber honored five award recipients: Economic Impact Award – DC United – Audi Field; Impact Award – Events DC; Business of the Year Award – Kith/Kin; Business Leader of the Year – Mark Ein; and the Lifetime Legacy Award – The Honorable Eleanor Holmes Norton. It was truly an evening of celebration, recognition, networking and entertainment. It was a time to “Seize the Moment for Success” and build on the DC Chamber’s eighty-one years of being the “voice of business” in the nation’s capital. There was a standing ovation for Congresswoman Norton. Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, now in her fifteenth term as the Congresswoman for the District of Columbia, is the Chair of the House Subcommittee on Highways and transit. She serves on two committees: the Committee on Oversight and Reform and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. Congresswoman Norton continues to lead the campaign for DC Statehood, her commitment to DC knows no boundaries. It was not all dinner and dancing – Brother Lowery and I networked and interacted with a few business leaders whom we are tapping for future endeavors. Fraternally, Brother Eddie Neal President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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DC Chamber of Commerce Gala continued
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Mu Lambda Donates 10 Suits to the Homeless The Mid Atlantic Association of Alpha Phi Alpha Chapters (MAAC) conducted a community service project seeking suits for homeless men in transition. Brothers were asked to donate dry cleaned suits in good condition. Participation in suits for the homeless men in transition is a great opportunity to lift less fortunate men during the holiday season and is aligned with the fraternity’s mission of service and advocacy in our communities. Mu Lambda’s contribution was made possible by the generosity of Brother Rylan Harris who donated the suits of our dearly departed brother, Rudolph Harris. I am sure the donated suits will be appreciated. I took the liberty of enclosing pictures of the suits to show appreciation for Brother Rylan Harris’ generosity.
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
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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DENTAL IMPLANTS, ARE THEY WORTH IT? Dental implants have been in dentistry for hundreds of years and have been as basic as trying to replant a tooth that had been knocked out to more sophisticated attempts at replacing avulsed teeth and are very much “worth it!”. Today’s implants have developed mostly from the work of Swedish dentists in the 1940’s. Those implants were classified as subperiosteal implants. The periosteum is the structure that covers the bone but itself is not bone. It comprises soft tissue, blood, nerve and lymphatic vessels which aid in nourishing the bone and dental structures. The earliest of modern day implants were placements of metal root structures between the periosteum and the bone. They had limited success but did not guarantee long term retention of the metal root structure nor a firm bond without mobility of the implant.
They have replaced adhesives and more cumbersome forms of attaching structures to the body. The dental implant is as lay persons would say the “best thing for dentistry since sliced bread.” They allow for replacement of missing teeth in a manner which may obviate the need for adjustment of other teeth. They have decreased the amount of bridgework which necessitated the preparation of teeth adjacent to the missing tooth or teeth and limited the need for many dental impressions and laboratory work. They have made a tremendous difference to the practice of modern day dentistry and revolutionized the process for the replacement of missing teeth. Brother Ryle Bell
Today’s implants are classified as osteo or oseointegrated implants. They are embedded into the jawbones and bone grows into and around them allowing for good root stability. After years of experimentation, metal that allowed attachment of bone to their surfaces was developed. Sometimes that metal was coated with hydroxyl apatite a substance that facilitated bone apposition and attachment and thus, stability of the implant. These implants are now commonplace in dentistry and have been found to be extremely successful in replacing missing teeth. The process for placing an implant is relatively simple. It involves the selection and placement of an appropriate sized metal post, which simulates the root. A hole is drilled into the bone, the implant is placed into the hole, usually being screwed in to place. The root post may be porous, which allows for subsequent bone growth through the pores, thus locking the implant in place, or posts covered with hydroxyapatite material that allows attachment to the hydroxyapatite. The net result is a metal post embedded in the bone that allows for natural bone apposition and not rejection. Some processes allow for closing the surgical site for three to six months to allow for bone integration, while others seek to place a crown or cap with the tooth structure visible in the mouth immediately. The process where the implant site is closed requires reopening at the proscribed time followed by placement of the crown or cap portion. Once an implant is integrated into the bone, it will last a life time unless undue stress is placed upon it. If this occurs, bone loss may result and the implant root may loosen. Implants are now routinely used as roots for missing teeth for partial or complete dentures, for single or multiple teeth replacement and even for attaching facial prostheses necessary after head and neck surgery. NOVEMBER 2019 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 65
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Congratulations to the Washington Nationals & Washington Mystics
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
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
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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AKSTAR APPAREL STORE BLACK FRIDAY SALE - NOVEMBER 29TH USE CODE: BLKFRIDAY19
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 NOVEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 71
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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 NOVEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 72
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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
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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. NOVEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 73
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Message from the Editor Welcoming my son Devon into the house of ALPHA!
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, 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. Your 2018-2019 payment covers you from January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2019. 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 4. Payment arrangements are acceptable but all payments must be concluded no later than November 15, 2019.
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.