SEPTEMBER 2019
THE
THE OFFICIAL NEWS SOURCE OF ------
FIRST OF ALL, SERVANTS OF ALL, WE SHALL TRANSCEND ALL
TORCH
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
CONGRESSIONAL
BLACK CAUCUS WEDNESDAY SEPT 11TH
"Two Alphas (Mu Lambda Chapter President Mu Lambda Foundation's President) and a Sigma (Congressman John Lewis) coming together for the CBC."
TICKETS mlcbc2019.eventbrite.com
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER | 2405 FIRST STREET, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20001| MULAMBDA.ORG
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
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 1 Front Cover Picture by Names 2 In this Issue Charter Members Past Presidents 3 Upcoming Events 4 Executive Board The Presidents’ Message 5 Committee Chairs The Vice Presidents’ Message 6 Message from the Membership & Reclamation Chair Alphaversary and Birthday 7 Reclamation Letter
8 Message From The Chaplain, Omega Chapter 9 Message from the Alpha Wives 10 11 13 14
Mu Lambda Foundation Letter About the Mu Lambda Foundation Combined Federal Campaign The DC ONE FUND
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
AmazonSmile Congressional Black Caucus Reception Mu Lambda 2019 Gala Mu Lambda Recognized by House of Ruth Message from House of Ruth Committee House of Ruth Self-Defense Workshop President’s Volunteer Service Award Letter
Adopt A Block and Certificate of Appreciation Battle of the Brothers Funds Challenge Advocacy Saves Lives Film Screening Brother’s Keeper/Reclamation Brunch Highlights Chapter Planning Retreat Highlights Happy 50th Anniversary Brother Bell Brother Coy Lindsay in Cairo, Egypt Brothers Visiting the Hoover Dam & Grand Canyon
39 AARP Driver Safety Course 40 96th Charter Day Luncheon 41 The Jewel Lounge
42 44 46 47 48 49
Mu Lambda Literary Society Brothers Legal Corner Message From The Health & Wellness Committee Food, Dessert and Drink of the Month Alpha Move Black MEN-tal Health
50 Missing Teeth! A Problem or Not 51 Running Saved His Life
52 Advertise with us 54 Domino’s 55 AKStar Apparel Ad 56 East State Street Band 57 Mu Lambda Brother Rawn James, Jr. 58 Prostate Cancer Awareness Month 59 Brother Willis Lonzer
61 62 63 64 65 66
Exit Realty - Brother Albert A. Williams Financial Planning Needs, The Crone Esquivel Group Butterfly Ball Beta Chapter Golf Classic Double O - Island 5th Annual Phish Phry Eta Eta Lambda 60th Celebration
67 88th Eastern Region Convention
68 Message from the Editor 69 Esprit de Fraternite
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
Charter Members
Past Presidents
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*
Harold Stratton* Howard H. Long* Charles H. Wesley* Frank Adams* R. Frank Jones* James B. Browning* Jewel Henry Arthur Callis* U. Simpson Tate* C.C. House* Verdie L. Robinson* Walter M. Booker* Jack Bind* Millard R. Dean* Frank Davis* Clifton Hardy* Herman Johnson* Howard Jenkins* C.C. House* William F. Nelson* Aubrey E. Robinson* Joseph Waddy* Edward J. Austin* Elgy Johnson* George H. Windsor* James T. Speight* Harold Sims* Eddie Madison* Wilbur Sewell* Charles Thomas* Theodore Taylor* Elmer Moore* William E. Calbert* Osmond Brown* Vernon Gill LeRoy Lowery, III Morris Hawkins* C.C. Jones Vincent Orange Melvin White LeRoy Lowery, III James Haynes Rudolph Harris* Edwin Norwood James McDonald Timothy Fitzgerald Kwame Ulmer LeRoy Lowery, III Eddie Neal LeRoy Lowery, III Joel Grey Eddie Neal - Current
22 Project Alpha/Go To HS Go To College 24 “Build Day” with the Washington Redskins 25 DCPS Makes PARCC Gains for 4th Straight Year
26 28 30 31 33 36 37 38
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
CHARTERED ON MONDAY OCTOBER 1, 1923 WASHINGTON, D.C.
* Omega Chapter Brothers
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Thursday, September 5th Saturday, September 7th Tuesday, September 10th
Wednesday, September 11th Saturday, September 14th Tuesday, September 17th Wednesday, September 18th Thursday, September 19th
Tuesday, September 24th Saturday, September 28th
Tuesday, October 1st
Chapter meeting Dinner at House of Ruth Literary Society Building Basketball Court with the Washington Redskins Congressional Black Caucus Social at “The Park” Alpha Wives meeting Alpha Move at Carter Barron Park Literary Society Executive Board meeting House of Ruth Awards Ceremony Mu Lambda Foundation Board meeting Mu Lambda Health and Wellness Committee meeting Literary Society DC PanHellenic Council meeting Clean the Block Eastern Region Staff meeting AARP Driver Safety Course
Tuesday, October 29th Saturday, November 2nd
Mu Lambda turns 96 Mu Lambda Brotherhood Smoke and Literary Society Chapter meeting Charter Day Brunch Literary Society Alpha Wives meeting Dinner at House of Ruth Literary Society Executive Board meeting Mu Lambda Foundation Board meeting Mu Lambda Health and Wellness Committee meeting Literary Society DC PanHellenic Council meeting Literary Society MAAC Conference
Tuesday, November 5th Thursday, November 7th Saturday, November 9th Monday, November 11th
Literary Society Chapter meeting Alpha Wives meeting Veterans Day
Thursday, October 3rd Saturday, October 5th Tuesday, October 8th Saturday, October 12th Tuesday, October 15th Wednesday, October 16th Thursday, October 17th
Tuesday, October 22nd
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
Tuesday, November 12th Wednesday, November 20th Thursday, November 21st
Saturday, November 23rd Tuesday, November 26th Thursday, November 28th Wednesday, December 4th Thursday, December 5th Friday, December 6th Saturday, December 7th
Saturday, December 14th Wednesday, December 18th Thursday, December 19th
Friday, December 20th Saturday, December 21st Tuesday, December 24th Wednesday, December 25th
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
Literary Society Executive Board meeting Mu Lambda Foundation Board meeting Mu Lambda Health and Wellness Committee meeting Dinner at House of Ruth DC PanHellenic Council meeting Happy Thanksgiving Alpha Phi Alpha turns 113 Chapter meeting Black Ice Event MAAC Breakfast Wreath Laying Ceremony for Brother Nathaniel A. Murray Wreath Laying Ceremony for Brother Robert H. Ogle Mu Lambda’s 96th Anniversary Founders Day banquet Alpha Wives meeting Executive Board meeting Mu Lambda Foundation Board meeting Mu Lambda Health and Wellness Committee meeting Deliver holiday baskets to families Dinner at House of Ruth DC PanHellenic Council meeting Merry Christmas
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Executive Board President Eddie Neal Vice President Garrett Miller Recording Secretary Jason Jefferson Corresponding Secretary Timothy Fitzgerald Financial Secretary Chatman Young 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
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
The Presidents’ Message Greetings brothers, I look forward to seeing you at the September 5th chapter meeting. I assure you it will be a fraternal and fun filled meeting. I take it that most of you have enjoyed your summer break and are ready to return to do the work of Alpha. There are a few changes this fraternal year that I hope you will appreciate and enjoy. We rolled out the new website and the Mu Lambda Chapter App should be ready by the September chapter meeting. We have implemented electronic voting and a chapter directory into the App. With all of the challenges facing the country and the District of Columbia, I need you more now than ever. Every bother can contribute one way or another. Let us first start with paying our 2019-2020 dues – the chapter cannot function or serve the community without your financial support. Second, I need your moral support – a kind smile and helpful advice goes a long way. Third, if you approve of the direction that I am leading the chapter – show me by bringing a brother without a chapter home back into the fold. Fourth, bring your ideas to the chapter – fresh ideas help the chapter, fraternity, and community. I have heard brothers say Mu Lambda does too much – I disagree, I say Mu Lambda is not doing enough in the community. If more brothers in the chapter join our community service efforts we can accomplish more with less manpower. Some seem to think it is about having more bodies at an event whereas it is actually about using our contacts and influence to get the necessary resources to the event. We will have members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) at our September 11th CBC reception. It is a prime opportunity for our Public Policy chair to socialize and see where Mu Lambda and the CBC can work together on like matters. Most know that Mu Lambda has been chosen as a partner of the year by the House of Ruth, an award well-deserved. It is a memorable award because the women we serve decided Mu Lambda was worthy of the recognition. Mu Lambda will be expanding its charity. In addition to serving the women at the House of Ruth, we will be delivering clothing to the men at Community for Creative Non-Violence formerly known as the Mitch Snyder Homeless Shelter and serving at Martha’s Table, Joyful Food Market. I recognize the Torch is long but the length is dictated by the work you are doing in the community. If no work is being done, the pages would be few. Brothers, the Torch is a monthly newsletter – one worthy of pride. Mu Lambda was chartered in 1923 to help the citizens of the District of Columbia. Please take the time to read the Torch in its entirety. Fraternally, Brother Eddie Neal, President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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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 Health & Wellness Derrick Butts Membership Timothy Fitzgerald Men Who Cook Garrett Miller Mu Lambda Chapter History Book Silas Woods III Nominating Frank King
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
The Vice Presidents’ Message Greetings Brothers, I would like to start by saying welcome back and I hope that you had a very restful break. Thursday September 5, 2019, will be our first chapter meeting for the fraternal year. I’m excited and hopeful that we will have a well-attended meeting. Bro. McGann will be in the kitchen preparing one of his delicious meals for the repast. We have a few guest speakers joining us for the evening. I’m sure the spirit of brotherhood will be felt throughout the house. For some of us, the summer break did not exist as we were busy planning events for the remaining calendar year and upcoming fraternal year, serving the women at the House of Ruth, Nathaniel Allison Murray Luncheon/ Reclamation, and our chapter retreat. All well attended events. Thanks again to Brothers DeBose and Fitzgerald for chairing the Luncheon/ Reclamation event, Bro. Armstrong for the pictures, and Bro. Jefferson for assisting with the cooking. Brothers, this is just one example of brothers coming together to accomplish tasks. Well Done! With that said, we still have work to do brothers. The chapter retreat was a great starting point allowing brothers to create collectively ideas that will continue to move the chapter onward and upward. It was great seeing so many brothers participate and work with the committee chairs to complete their upcoming events for the 2019-2020 fraternal year. Again, I say brothers, we have a lot of work to do, but I know that we can accomplish anything with numbers. We have a busy few months ahead starting with the CBC and House of Ruth in September. In October we will be having our Charter Day Luncheon and in December will be having the Winter Gala to name a few. As the events are made available to you via Eventbrite, please purchase your tickets and also reach out to your networks. Again, we can accomplish so much more in numbers. One last thing before I close, I’m looking for a brother to chair the Marketing/ Promotion committee. If you would like to chair this committee, please reach out to me. Be safe and I will see you Thursday September 5th.
Programs Joseph Gibbs
Fraternally,
Public Policy Kelvin Brown
Brother Garrett Miller, Vice-President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
Social Joseph Gibbs Community Service Samuel Armstrong
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
Message from the Membership and Reclamation Chair Greeting Brothers, I had a good time at the General Convention in Las Vegas where Brotherhood was at the forefront. The proposals to raise grand tax and life membership fees did not pass. Since the proposals did not pass, we have to be realistic – we have to bring brothers back into the fold. 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
John Barnett
September 15th
Ronald S. Flowers Matthew Aaron, Jr. Jason Jefferson P. Kobina N. Yankah Sean L. Jones Eddie Neal Guy F. Durant William A. Hawkins, Jr. Lee A. Tyler Hezekiah Smith Garrett J. Miller Timothy L. Fitzgerald Paul Cotton Mikael LaRoche
September 5 September 5 September 7 September 7 September 9 September 12 September 14 September 15 September 15 September 15 September 16 September 16 September 22 September 26
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
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 Chaplain Dear Brothers, As usual, I would like to take this opportunity to share some basic information with you in the event you or a brother you know transitions to Omega Chapter: • • • •
•
•
Call (410.202.2715) or email president@mulambda.org. Every brother is entitled to an Omega service, financial or not. The request should come from the family, not the chapter forcing it upon the family. Part of any brother’s estate planning should be the designation of an Alpha brother to receive his paraphernalia or instructions for his loved ones to contact Mu Lambda for disposition. Official fraternity pins (e.g., official badge, life member pin, twenty-five-year pin, fifty-year pin, etc.) should be given to another brother, the chapter (Mu Lambda) or the General Organization to prevent it from getting into the hands of a nonmember. Notify your family to give Mu Lambda and fraternal documents to Mu Lambda.
I hope you never need the above information, just in case, please share the information with your family so we can honor you in the event of your untimely passing. Fraternally, Brother William A. (Tony) Hawkins Chaplain Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
Omega Chapter Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter Omega Service of Brother Elbert Gadsden Born: May 28, 1925 Omega Chapter: August 20, 2019 Initiated: January 4, 1949 at Xi Chapter Life Member 6451 Funeral will be Thursday, September 5, 2019, at Fort Lincoln Funeral Home Chapel, 3401 Bladensburg Road, Brentwood, Maryland 20772 The viewing is from 12:30 to 1:30 the funeral starts at 1:30 The Omega service is at 1:00 pm Brothers should assemble at 12:15 pm Brother Gadsden was initiated in 1949 in Xi Chapter at Wilberforce University. He was an Alpha Brother for some 70 years and a practicing attorney for decades. His son, Dean Gadsden, has requested that the Words of Tribute be given by Brother Robert M. Brown II.
Farewell dear Brother
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
Message from the Alpha Wives of Washington, D.C. Inc. As the new business year approaches, I want to first wish Mu Lambda a prosperous and amazing fraternal year. The Alpha Wives are equally excited about our upcoming year and all the possibilities that it may bring. An endeavor that we will undertake is to ensure that our membership continues to increase and grow. This is where the brothers of Mu Lambda Chapter can assist. As an organization that has been in existence for 69 years, one of the major goals over the next year is to better document our history, something we look forward to sharing with Mu Lambda as the project progresses. If your spouse is not currently a member of the Alpha Wives, please share this message and encourage her to join us. Please let her know that we are a diverse group in many ways, ranging from our backgrounds, interests, careers, and age demographics. You can also let her know that we are a close-knit group whose primary mission is to support the goals and projects of Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc., Mu Lambda Chapter, through political, civic, educational, cultural, and social activities. For example, if your spouse is interested in providing support to a daycare center for homeless children and their families, homeless women, youth enrolled in regular and after school programs, and people in nursing homes, we welcome her. If she is interested in providing academic and book scholarships to freshman and continuing college students who are graduates of District of Columbia Schools and implementing informative programs on health care and estate and life planning, we welcome her. If she is interested in theater, lectures, art shows, and crafts, we welcome her. If she is interested in supporting Mu Lambda events such as Black and Gold Ball, Men Who Cook, and Mu Lambda’s Annual Congressional Black Caucus Reception, we welcome her. Even if she is just interested in supporting you, we welcome her. Finally, please let her know this is a special invitation to attend our kickoff meeting on Saturday, September 14th beginning with our repast at 12:30 p.m. followed by the meeting at 1:00. The meeting will take place at the Mu Lambda Community House, 2405 First Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001. They may also contact me directly at alphawivesdc@gmail.com. Thanks in advance and looking forward, Sincerely, Claudia J. Postell, Esq. President Alpha Wives of Washington, D.C. Inc. SEPTEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
Mu Lambda Foundation 2405 First Street, N.W. Washington, DC 20001-1019
BOARD DIRECTORS BOARD OFOFDIRECTORS
Vice President
Juan Powell Chatman Young Vice President Treasurer John Barnett Chatman Young Treasurer Ryle Bell, D.D.S.
John Barnett Malcolm Carter AlbertBell, Cheek,D.D.S. D.D.S. Ryle Hon. Horace G. Dawson, Jr., Ph.D.
Malcolm Carter Marcel Desroches
www.mulambdafoundation.org
September 2, 2019
September 2, 2019
LeRoy Lowery, III
President Lowery, III LeRoy President Juan Powell
202.299.9635
Greetings, You are invited to join with the Mu Lambda Foundation in kicking off the next Congressional Black Caucus legislative Greetings, weekend by attending our 7th Annual reception. See page 16
YouPlease are invited to join with the Mu Lambda Foundation in kicking off the review the work Mu Lambda Foundation does in the th nextcommunity. CongressionalSee Blackpages Caucus11-12, legislative attending 16,weekend 18-27 by and 30. our 7 Annual reception. See page 18 For ways you can assist with the work we are doing in the
Please review the see workpages Mu Lambda Foundation in theYour community. See community 13-15, 17 and does 28-29. contributions pages and 20-32.Foundation are used to help the young, old, to 12-13 Mu Lambda
A. Gilbert Douglass, Esq.
men, women, babies, homeless, battered, and youth needing assistance. Forfinancial ways you can assist with the work we are doing in the community see
Kenneth F. Holbert, Esq. Marcel Desroches
pages14-16 and 19. Your contributions to Mu Lambda Foundation are used To see our most recent community servicebattered, awards,and see pages to help the young, old, men, women, babies, homeless, youth 18 and 26. needing financial assistance.
Albert Cheek, D.D.S. Hon. Horace G. Dawson, Jr., William A. Hawkins, Jr., Ph.D. Ph.D.
Alvin Reaves, M.D.
A. Gilbert Douglass, Esq. John A. Wilson
William A. Hawkins, Jr., Ph.D. Kenneth F. Holbert, Esq. Alvin Reaves, M.D. John A. Wilson
more on those you21.can To For see our mostinformation recent community serviceprograms awards, seeand pageshow 20 and
assist, log onto our website – www.mulambdafoundation.org.
For more information on those programs and how you can assist, log onto our Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to website – www.mulambdafoundation.org. seeing you!
Thank you Lowery for your continued support. We look forward to seeing you! LeRoy LeRoy Lowery
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
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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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
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 SEPTEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
Combined Federal Campaign
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
®
®
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. SEPTEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13
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ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
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 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.
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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! SEPTEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15
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DOOR OPEN | 5PM TICKETS | mlcbc2019.eventbrite.com AT THE PARK | 920 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005
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The honor of your presence is requested for Dinner & Dancing at the
MU LAMBDA 2019 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 SEPTEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17
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Let it be known that Mu Lambda is being recognized at the annual House of Ruth donor appreciation dinner. Every year, at its annual donor appreciation event, the House of Ruth recognizes a community partner that has made a huge difference for the House of Ruth. This year, more than one person nominated Mu Lambda. This award will be issued September 19, 2019, at the appreciation event for the ongoing and wonderful service to the House of Ruth. Founded in 1976, House of Ruth empowers women, children and families to rebuild their lives and heal from trauma, abuse and homelessness. House of Ruth offers comprehensive support for women, children and families. Its consortium of services encompasses enriched housing for families and single women, trauma-informed daycare for children, and free counseling to empower anyone, regardless of gender, who is a survivor of trauma and abuse. Its programs provide individualized support to rebuild safe, independent, and sustainable lives. SEPTEMBER 2019 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------18
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Message from the House of Ruth Committee Greetings Brothers, Brothers Samuel Armstrong, Eric Johnson, Garrett Miller, Kellen Moore, Eddie Neal, and John-Mark Williams served the ladies of the House of Ruth on Saturday, August 10th. We arrived at 3:30 pm to set the table and deliver the meal at the scheduled time of 4:30 pm. The menu was fried chicken, grilled chicken, cabbage, corn, coleslaw, macaroni salad, buttery corn bread, blueberry cobbler, cheesecake, and sweet tea. We had an opportunity to mingle with the ladies. Some were discussing their self-defense training presented Thursday, August 8th by Brothers Butts and Neal. We are looking for assistance for the September 7th meal. Brothers, if you can cook, the ladies would appreciate your favorite dish. Many thanks are extended to Brother Arthur King for his coleslaw and Brother Louis Ford’s blueberry cobbler. The women loved the cobbler and coleslaw. We have not built the food service into the chapter’s budget. We serve the ladies once per month and 12 times per year. We have approximately 150 brothers on the rolls. If a group of 12 different brothers per month prepared a dish, we can feed the ladies well 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 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 prior menus. In closing, the chapter Mu Lambda Chapter is being presented the House of Ruth Community Partner Award. The award is presented to their community partner who has made a huge a huge difference for the House of Ruth. The award will be presented to the chapter on September 19th at their annual donor appreciation event. If you are interested in attending, please let me know and I will provide your name. None of this would be possible without the brothers of Mu Lambda. You have all contributed in one way or another. I appreciate you and the community appreciates you. Fraternally, Brother Garrett Miller Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter SEPTEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19
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House of Ruth Self-Defense Workshop On August 8th, 2019 Brothers Eddie Neal and Derrick A. Butts teamed with the Silver Spring Martial Arts Association students - Alan and Becky - to demonstrate and teach seven House of Ruth ladies selfdefense techniques to protect themselves. This was the second of four training workshops and was, again, well received. Mu Lambda is scheduled to provide the next self-defense workshop this Fall.
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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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Message from the Education Chair
PROJECT ALPHA
Back 2 School Cookout/ Hair Cuts/Do’s 2nd Annual Highlights from Hart Middle School and Ballou High School On August 24, 2019 Mu Lambda in conjunction with Hart Middle School and Ballou High School kicked off the school year with a Back to School get together. Students were given bookbags with school supplies, personal hygiene products, dental hygiene products, food, and snacks. More than 75 students attended the event. Several of the Students from the Henry Arthur Callis Academy at Ballou were in attendance. This event provided an opportunity for Brothers to catch up with them. The young men are looking forward to interacting with us this year. They also invited us out to their football games. Thanks for supporting this event. Please stay tuned for a similar event in February 2020.
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Highlights from Hart Middle School continued
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The KaBOOM! Multi-sport Courts program provides the facilitation and support of an experienced Project Manager as community members embark on a eight to ten week planning process. After selection, all partners will join together for a community Design Day, inviting the youth that will utilize the Sports Court to design their new playspace.
Tuesday, September 10th (8 am to 4 pm) at Hart Middle School, Mu Lambda will be working with the Washington Redskins to build an outdoor playground for the students at Hart Middle School.The Washington Redskins will be providing 50 volunteers and Mu Lambda has agreed to provide 30 volunteers. A basketball court installation company has been hired but you will be assisting with the installation. Mu Lambda volunteers will also be fixing up the courtyard, assembling tables, painting the lines on the football field, preparing the shaded area and other duties as assigned. The Washington Redskins will be providing the food and beverages for the day. Alpha paraphernalia is a must! Volunteers need to enroll for the “build day� at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/help-build-amulti-sport-court-at-hart-middle-school-tickets-65433484313
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DCPS Makes PARCC Gains for 4th Straight Year August 19, 2019 Dear DCPS Community, I am excited to announce today that 2019 marks the fourth consecutive year that DC Public Schools (DCPS) has made progress on the Partnership for the Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC)! The number of DCPS students scoring at a Level 4 or 5 increased by 4.9 percentage points in English language arts (ELA) and 1.9 percentage points in math, outpacing the state average. The test has five performance levels, with a Level 4 or 5 score indicating that the student is on track to be prepared for college and career pathways after high school. Since 2015, the number of DCPS students scoring at a Level 4 or 5 has increased by 15.0 percentage points in ELA and 11.5 percentage points in math.
These PARCC scores speak to more than test results. They represent an elementary school student who is a confident and curious learner, a middle school student who is taking on new challenges, and a high school student who is prepared for post-secondary success. They are the result of educators who plan rigorous and engaging lessons, and families who support their child’s success. Although we celebrate this progress, we recognize that only 39.9 percent of students met or exceed expectations in ELA, and 32.4 percent of students met or exceeded expectations in math. Our PARCC data also shows a persistent Black-White achievement gap. We measure our success as a district in the achievement of all students, and we will not meet our goals until every student is prepared for college and career.
We know that to set up the next generation of innovators, thinkers, and leaders, we must ensure that every student has the skills they need to succeed. I am proud that we saw gains across student backgrounds including for Black and Hispanic students, students with disabilities, and English Learners. Hendley Elementary School (Ward 8), Raymond Education Campus (Ward 4) and Murch Elementary School (Ward 3) each earned double-digit increases in math proficiency. Aiton Elementary School (Ward 7), Eliot-Hine Middle School (Ward 6), Brookland Middle School (Ward 5), and Washington Metropolitan High School (Ward 1) each earned at least a 10 percentage point gain in ELA proficiency with Garrison Elementary School (Ward 2) earning a 32.7 percentage point increase in ELA proficiency!
As we head into the school year, we are focused on accelerating progress for our students furthest from opportunity. We are committed to ensuring there is a great school in every neighborhood at every grade level through the launch of Ida B. Wells Middle School (Ward 4) and nine new Pre-k classrooms across the district. We are focused on keeping equity and transparency at the forefront of our work through the launch of the Connected Schools initiative, which will make our schools hubs of community resources. We are creating strong programs to set students up for post-secondary success through the launch of the early college programs at Bard DC (Ward 7) and the Early College Academy at Coolidge High School (Ward 4). Our students’ success is a reflection of our community’s investments in our young people. I appreciate all that each of you has done as a family member, advocate, or community leader to support our young people on their path to graduation and instill in them the importance of attending school every day ready to learn. I look forward to continuing this work with you in School Year 2019-2020 and beyond. In Partnership, Lewis D. Ferebee, Ed.D. Chancellor DC Public Schools
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Adopt-A-Block Keeping our city clean and green
Saturday, September 28, 2019 @ 9 am Mu Lambda House & Anacostia Metro Station (across the street) Please bring gloves, rakes, hedge trimmers, and trash bags. Brothers this is a great opportunity for us to fellowship and beautiful our areas. Please reach out to Brother James Harmon or Samuel Armstrong
Adopting a block in the District of Columbia has many benefits: •
• • • •
Martin Luther King, Jr Avenue and Howard Road SE
Improved quality of life in your neighborhood. The appearance of our community contributes to the quality of life we all share. Signs with your group's name letting people know you are committed to making a difference. Meet your neighbors, strengthen your community connections, and build leadership skills. Become a role model to youth. Litter-free, more active communities help discourage rodents and unwanted and illegal activity. Increased economic development. An attractive, clean community is a great asset in attracting new businesses, jobs, and customers. First Street and Bryant Street NW
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KICKOFF JA N UA R Y 22019 02 0 SEPTEMBER MULAMBDA.ORG | MULAMBDAFOUNDATION.ORG
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MU LAMBDA’S “BATTLE OF THE BROTHERS” FUNDS CHALLENGE
WE NEED YOUR HELP! Greetings Brothers, Welcome to the first Annual Mu Lambda “BATTLE OF THE BROTHERS FUNDS CHALLENGE!” On behalf of our Chapter President, we are excited about your participation in this event and look forward to crowning the winning team. In an effort to provide support, this brotherly competition will help raise funds for our Mu Lambda Foundation. Brothers will build teams embarking on a four-month challenge to raise a minimum goal of $5,000 per team. The team raising the most money will win the Funds Challenge Championship. Teams We will have twelve teams vying to be crowned “FUNDS CHALLENGE CHAMPION!” • • • • •
Each team will have a team captain, a max of ten brothers (including the team captain and bonus member), with a minimum of seven brothers. Each team will select a bonus team member from the Foundation and that member will be responsible for raising a minimum of $1,000. The $1,000 will count towards your team’s goal. Each member will be selected in order by the team captain. Team captains will select in the order determined by a lottery. Since this is about brotherhood, fundraising and fun, team captains can trade with another team captain.
Rules We must protect the chapter and foundation’s brand, so a set of rules will be established for the challenge. •
The only rule at this time is the fundraising must be legal and in good taste.
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Advocacy Saves Lives Film Screening by AIDS Healthcare Foundation
Advocacy in all its forms seeks to ensure that people, particularly those who are most vulnerable in society, are able to have their voice heard on issues that are important to them, defend and safeguard their rights, and have their views and wishes genuinely considered when decisions are being made about their lives. The Los Angeles-based AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) is a global nonprofit organization providing cuttingedge medicine and advocacy to over 1,000,000 people in 43 countries and is currently the largest provider of HIV/AIDS medical care in the U.S. AHF funds its mission to rid the world of AIDS through a network of pharmacies, thrift stores,healthcare contracts and other strategic partnerships. Generating new, innovative ways of treatment, prevention and advocacy has been the hallmark of our success. We are currently leading a mass testing initiative to identify and treat the 25 million people who are unaware they are infected. By advocating big goals–such as having 1 billion people tested each year–AHF hopes to eliminate older, more time-consuming methods. Since 1987, AHF has cared for thousands of people living with HIV and AIDS worldwide. As we create and implement new programs in communities across the U.S. and abroad, we expand delivery of healthcare and influence over policy with the aim of saving more lives. Come meet fellow peers who are interested in ending the fight against HIV/AIDS to see this riveting new documentary and learn all about why we do what we do and how you can help! Complimentary food and beverage will be provided. Alpha Phi Alpha formulated a partnership with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation at the Las Vegas convention. Mu Lambda is one of the few chapters selected as a pilot chapter. Along with being a pilot chapter, there is a $1,000 stipend. SEPTEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 30
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BROTHER’S KEEPER/RECLAMATION BRUNCH HIGHLIGHTS The weekend of August 17 and 18, Saturday and Sunday were both busy and productive days for the brothers that attended. I would like to first thank the chairs of the Brother’s Keeper Committee (Bro. Carlos Debose) and Reclamation Committee (Bro. Tim Fitzgerald) for hosting the Nathaniel Allison Murray Brotherhood Brunch also known as the Brother’s Keeper/ Reclamation brunch at the Mu Lambda Chapter house on Saturday August 17. I would also like to thank Bro. Jason Jefferson for helping in the kitchen. The brunch was well attended by our senior brothers, visiting brothers looking for a home, along with current brothers that came to fellowship. It was a fun filled day of fellowship with a hearty meal of hot grits, waffles, bacon, eggs, hash brown potatoes, hot biscuits, frittatas, sausage, fruit, orange juice, apple juice, mimosas, and coffee.
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BROTHER’S KEEPER/RECLAMATION BRUNCH HIGHLIGHTS CONTINUED
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Chapter Planning Retreat Highlights On Sunday, August 18, from 9am – 1:30pm we had our chapter retreat. Again, many thanks to all the brothers that came back on Sunday to partake in the retreat. We had a very productive day starting off with a breakfast buffet consisting of grits, bacon, hash browns, waffles, Danishes, muffins, breakfast bars, fruit, juice, water and coffee. We then had a team building session lead by Bro. Jason Jefferson followed by the purpose of the retreat, chapter vision by Bro. President, the committee org chart presented by me and finally a breakout session by each of the committee chairs. The committee chairs and members returned to the session with current and future event projections and goals that were well received. Thank you again brothers for your dedication!
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Chapter Planning Retreat Highlights continued
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Chapter Planning Retreat Highlights continued
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Happy 50th Anniversary
to Brother Ryle Bell and his wife Carley Bell Celebrating 50 years of marriage on September 14, 2019 SEPTEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 36
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Brother Coy Lindsay taking time from work in Cairo, Egypt to visit the
Great Sphinx of Giza
Brother Coy Lindsay is a Program Specialist with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). USAID is a contract making and grant issuing Agency. The purposes of the USAID is to development projects. During August 2019, he was on a temporary duty assignment in Cairo, Egypt implementing the Presidential Memorandum--Managing Government Records. The memorandum was meant to reform records management to encourage the federal government to modernize, improve performance, and promote openness and accountability. This memorandum is an administrative function that enhances the efficiency of the Agency and its ability to carry out its foreign policy objectives. In this capacity, he is involved with assisting and training the entire Agency on how to more effectively document the Agency actions and decisions.
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Brothers Visiting the Hoover Dam and Grand Canyon During the General Convention
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September 28, 2019 AARP Driver Safety Course
At the Mu Lambda Community House 10am-4pm
Sponsored by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Mu Lambda Chapter $15 for AARP members $20 for non AARP members Your spouse, family members and friends are well come to take the training.
Get registered today at https://mulambda-aarp-driver-safety.eventbrite.com
Refresh your driving skills and you could save on auto insurance When you take the AARP Smart Driver™ online course, you could be eligible for a multi-year discount on your auto insurance.* Plus safer driving can save you more than just money. The course teaches proven driving techniques to help keep you and your loved ones safe on the road. Additionally, you’ll learn: • Important facts about the effects of medication on driving. • How to reduce driver distractions. • How to maintain the proper following distance behind another car. • Proper use of safety belts, air bags, anti-lock brakes and new technology found in cars today. • Techniques for handling left turns, right-of-way, and roundabouts. • Age-related physical changes and how to adjust your driving to compensate. Why Take the AARP Smart Driver Course? In many states, drivers may benefit from a discount on their auto insurance premium upon completing the course. And you will learn something new along the way. In fact, an evaluation of the course found that 97% of participants changed at least one driving habit as a result of what they learned.
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Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Mu Lambda Chapter
96th CHARTER DAY
Luncheon
Saturday OCTOBER 5TH 1PM - 4PM
Cost: $25 | Tickets: https://ml96thcharterdayluncheon.eventbrite.com
Howard University School of Law Student’s Lounge (The Rhatt) 2900 Van Ness St NW Washington DC 20008 Contact Sean Perkins for more details at sean.perkins1948@gmail.com SEPTEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 40
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The Jewels’ Lounge Mu Lambda Chapter Jewels’ Lounge Welcome to the Jewels’ Lounge where brothers gather, sit amongst the Jewels and reflect upon life in Alpha.
Jewel Callis
Jewel Jones
Jewel Murray
It is a place that allow brothers the opportunity to relax, read The Torch, Sphinx, history book and/or engage in that good ole ALPHA SPIRIT. Brother Silas Woods, III, Historian Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
Jewel Kelley
Jewel Tandy
Jewel Chapman
Jewel Ogle
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Greeting Brothers,
Volume I
The 2018-2019 fraternal year has been dedicated to rediscovering our brotherhood. We serve the community, but we have been neglecting our bond of brotherhood.
Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter
I II III IV V VI
Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter
VII VIII IX X XI
Starting Tuesday, May 7th, Mu Lambda will be rolling out and hosting the Mu Lambda Literary Society, every week at 7:06 pm. The Mu Lambda Literary Society is a Mu Lambda initiative, where we come together as brothers and discuss the two volume Alpha history book over a period of months. It will be a potluck affair facilitated by a different brother each week. Brothers can participate in person or via conference call. We will start with volume 1, chapter 1 of the twenty second printing of the history book and conclude with volume 2, chapter 8. There are twenty chapters in volume 1 and eight chapters in volume 2. This is totally voluntary. If you are interested, participate for the weeks that you can. You are not required to purchase the new history book. Brother Robert L. Harris, Jr. our National Historian and author of Volume II has expressed an interest in participating in some of the sessions.
Chapter XII Chapter XIII Chapter XIV
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Lesson The Origin of Alpha Phi Alpha The Period of Consolidation The First Steps in Expansion Local and National Strivings Permanent Foundations Expansion and Internal Development The Leaven of Self-Examination The War Interlude A Definite Program The Crowning Years Advancement in Spite of the Depression The Widening Social Program Education and War A Militant Liberalism
MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
Date May 7 May 14 May 21 May 28 June 4 June 11 June 18 June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30 August 6
Volume II
Lesson
Date
Chapter XV Chapter XVI Chapter XVII
The Concept of Progress The Golden Anniversary Shaping the Future on the Basis of the Past The Continuing Challenge New Goals for Old Social Purpose and Social Action Back to Basics Achieving Tomorrow: An Agenda for the 80’s Strengthening Internal Capacity for Greater Service Facing Our Future with a Future The Alpha Renaissance: Rekindling the Spirit of Leadership and Community Service Vision 2000: The Light of a New Day Alpha Attitude: A Forward Step‌ Into the Future A Solid Foundation for the New Era of Alpha
August 13 August 20
Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter Chapter
XVIII XIX XX I II
Chapter III Chapter IV Chapter V Chapter VI Chapter VII Chapter VIII
August 27 September 3 September 10 September 17 September 24 October 1 October 8 October 15 October 22 October 29 November 5 November 12
Fraternally, Eddie Neal, President Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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Literary Society continued
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BROTHERS LEGAL CORNER
Having a will is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your family. It can also spell out exactly how you would like things handled after you have passed on.
Get Legal Help with Making Your Will You want to do it correctly the first time and with the least amount of hassle. The best way to ensure that you are putting the right information in your will is to contact an estate planning attorney. The making of a will is an important act. When you die, having a valid will is one of the few ways you can give back to those you love in a proper, legal manner. A properly executed will allows you to specify exactly how you would like your estate handled upon your death, including how and to whom property should be divided, who should watch over your minor children (if any), and who should manage the administration of your estate. While the rules for making a will vary from state to state, certain formalities must be met. Generally, a will is not valid unless it fulfills the following requirements. Legal Age - A person must be of legal age to make a will. Most states consider you to have legal capacity if you are 18 years of age or older, have been lawfully married, or are a member of the U.S. military. Testamentary Capacity - In most states, a person has ‘testamentary capacity” if they have a sound mind, meaning the testator must know that he or she is making a will and its effect; understand the nature and extent of the estate; and understand that he or she is disposing of property and assets.
Intent - A person has intent to make a will if at the time of the signing, he or she intends to make a disposition of property in the event of their death. Voluntary - A will must be voluntarily entered into and signed by the testator. A will executed by a person who was coerced into signing the will, or who signed the will under duress, is not considered to be a valid will.
Proper Disposal of Property - A will must properly dispose of the testator’s property. This includes listing all property and assets and properly distributing them among charities, friends and family according to the testator's wishes. Signed, Dated and Witnessed by Two Other Parties - A will can be handwritten on a single piece of paper or elaborately typed within multiple pages, depending on the size of the estate and preference of the testator. It must also be signed and dated by the testator in front of two “disinterested” witnesses, who must also sign. Disinterested witnesses include those who will not personally benefit under the will (like beneficiaries). Specify your will to your situation. Decide how your estate will be distributed. A will lets you determine how you would like your estate to be handled upon your death. If you die without a will, there is no guarantee that your intended desires will be carried out. Having a will helps minimize any family fights about your estate that may arise. Decide who will take care of your minor children. A will allows you to make an informed decision about who should take care of your minor children. Absent a will, the court will take it upon itself to
choose among family members or a state-appointed guardian. Having a will allows you to appoint the person you want to raise your children or, better, make sure it is not someone you do not want to raise your children. Avoid a lengthy probate process. Wills are still subject to probate proceedings. Probate proceedings can take months. However, having a will does help to speed up the probate process, because your loved ones, lawyers, and the probate court are not left having to divide all of your property for you. You have already explained how it should be divided, and the court will follow your wishes. Probate courts serve the purpose of “administering your estate”, and when you die without a will (intestate), the court will decide how to divide the estate without your input, which can also cause long, expensive, and unnecessary delays. Decide who will wind up the affairs of your estate. Executors make sure all your affairs are in order, including paying off bills, canceling your credit cards, and notifying the bank and other business establishments. Because executors play the biggest role in the administration of your estate, you want to be sure to appoint someone who is honest, trustworthy, and organized (it does not have to be a family member). Disinherit individuals who would otherwise stand to inherit. Most people do not realize they can disinherit individuals out of their will. You may wish to disinherit individuals who may otherwise inherit your estate if you die without a will. Brothers Legal Corner continued on next page
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THE TORCH -----------------------------------------------------------------------------Because wills specifically outline how you would like your estate distributed, absent a will your estate may end up in the hands of someone you did not intend (such as an ex-spouse with whom you had a bitter divorce).
in the living trust automatically goes to the beneficiaries and is managed by the trustee. If you want to change this arrangement, you must do it through the trust forms and documents and not through your will.
Make gifts and donations. The ability to make gifts is a good reason to have a will. In addition, gifts up to certain amounts are excluded from estate tax, so you’re also increasing the value of your estate for your heirs and beneficiaries to enjoy.
Life insurance proceeds that have a beneficiary. In this case, like with the trust, the proceeds automatically go to the beneficiary.
Change your mind if your life circumstances change. A good reason for having a will is that you can change it at any time while you are still alive. Tomorrow is not promised. Procrastination and sometimes the realization come too late. To avoid the added stress on families during an already emotional time, it may be wise to meet with an estate planning lawyer to help you draw up a basic estate plan. There are some things that you cannot or should not include in your will. Certain property carries rules that govern what happens after you die. These rules are independent of your will, mostly because the nature of these types of properties is to name a beneficiary or avoid probate. Married or joint tenancy property. This type of property grants the right of survivorship to your joint tenant, automatically by law. Therefore, when you die, your share of the property passes directly to the surviving joint tenant, regardless of what your will says. Property in a living trust. One of the ways to avoid probate is to set up a living trust. The property included in a living trust avoids probate; whereas property in your will does not. Additionally, willing property to someone in your will when that property is already delegated to someone by a living trust is inconsistent. The property
Retirement plan proceeds, including money from a pension, IRA, or 401(k). The forms for these plans contain a section for you to include your desired beneficiary. Stocks and bonds held in beneficiary. This is yet another type of property that automatically goes to your named beneficiary. Proceeds from a payable-on-death bank account. The form for this account asks you to name your beneficiary. Avoid leaving funeral instructions when making a will. Usually, the settling of the estate and the probate proceedings do not happen until after the funeral. The funeral arrangements are among the first matters of business after someone dies. Therefore, people may not even notice your funeral wishes stated in your will until after the funeral. Instead of leaving your funeral wishes in your will, talk with your loved ones about what you want. You can even make a separate document that spells out your wishes for the funeral, and give this document to the executor or executrix of your estate. Avoid using a will to escape estate taxes. A will is still subject to estate taxes. Instead of trying to use a will to avoid the estate taxes, explore different types of trusts that may work for your situation. Trusts escape a lot of tax subjection, because the property is not passing directly to the beneficiary, rather to the trust account, over which the beneficiary does not have complete control.
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Be careful with what conditions you put on gifts. Not all of those conditions are legal. Conditions that include marriage, divorce, or the change of the recipient's religion cannot be provisions in a legal will. Therefore, a court will not enforce them. You can put certain other types of conditions on gifts. Usually, these types of conditions are to encourage someone to do or not do something. For example, when making a will, you could say, "to Brother Fitzgerald, if and when he graduates from college." You could also say something like, "to Brother Bell, so long as he uses the property as a fraternity house." Just keep in mind that putting conditions on gifts can complicate things. Think about who will actually enforce these conditions, for how long, and does the enforcer get anything like an executor's fee? Do not arrange care for a special needs person when making a will. Although it is very possible to arrange such special needs for a disabled person, a will is not the place in which to do it. There are certain types of trusts, such as a special needs trust, that specifically address the management of the specific special needs of a disabled person. Avoid leaving gifts to pets in a will. Animals do not have the legal capacity to own property. What many people do instead is they leave the pet with someone who they know will provide it with good care. You can also leave that person any property or money to help out with the care of the pet. Certain states do allow for trusts with an animal as the beneficiary. If this makes you more comfortable, check to see what your state's laws are. However, as long as you believe in the person you are leaving your pet with, you probably do not need a pet trust fund. Fraternally, Brother Eddie Neal Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter
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Message from the Health and Wellness Committee Greetings Brothers, I am excited for this opportunity to serve you as the new Chair of the Health and Wellness Committee for Mu Lambda. I hope to share with you health related topics that are germane to us as men and that might also benefit others in our personal spheres. I will collaborate with Bro. Butts, the former HWC Chair, whose efforts will be instrumental in continuing the fitness and well-being portion of the committee. I encourage the Brotherhood to share with me or any member of the HWC topics that you would desire reading and learning more about during the fraternal year. I’d also encourage Brothers with health related backgrounds to share with me and the committee your area of expertise so that we will know and utilize the rich resources and talents gifted to us in this House of Alpha. Fraternally, Brother Alvin L. Reaves, III
MLHWC Events Brothers of Mu Lambda, the HWC has a number of upcoming events in September that will allow us to incorporate physical activity into our lives. Please support us with these efforts: Sept. 10th – 6:00pm Ladies of the Quad Social Club – (Confirmed) Quad Lounge at Howard Univ This event will last for one hour. Support Request - Need 5 - 8 Brothers to Support Sept. 14th – 8:00am Alpha Move 2019 (Confirmed) Carter Baron Parking Lot - 16th and Colorado Ave. NW 5K Walk/Run (3.2 miles) and/or Cycle up to 20 miles Mostly Flat terrain with some hills, scenic and shaded site in the newly paved Rock Creek Park on Beach Dr. Water and some healthy snacks will be provided. Eventbrite: ALPHAmove2019.eventbrite.com Support Request - Need 10 - 12 Brothers to Support Sept. 26th – 6:300pm Alpha Self-defense for College Students - (Confirmed). Mu Lambda House – 2405 First St, Washington, DC Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. - Beta and Mu Lambda Chapters have teamed together with Silver Spring Martial Arts Association (SSMAA) to provide simple self-defense techniques for college students in the form of an interactive workshop. 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: Alpha_Self-Defense.eventbrite.com Support Request - Need 4 – 8 Brothers to Support
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TUSCAN TURKEY DINNER FOR TWO WITH ROASTED RED POTATOES INGREDIENTS FOR ROASTED RED POTATOES
Roasted potatoes can simply be made with red potatoes, olive oil, and salt. But, to take your potatoes to the next level, here are some of the ingredients you need for this delicious recipe: • 8-10 red potatoes (numbers depending on size) • 2 tablespoons of olive oil • 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder • 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder • 1/4 teaspoon of oregano • 1/4 teaspoon of salt • 1/8 teaspoon of ground black pepper • 1/4 teaspoon of Mexican chipotle chili powder • 1/2 tablespoon of freeze dried or fresh chives • Parmesan cheese from the canister https://thebestblogrecipes.com/ tuscan-turkey-dinner-two-roasted-redpotatoes Of course, if you have your favorite spice mix, you can use that too! The beauty of sides is how many different ways you can make the same dish. This potato is also amazing with other herb butters like rosemary, dill, or basil. If you’re adventurous, a ranch seasoning would also go great with these spuds! It just depends on what you like.
HOW TO PREPARE ROASTED RED POTATOES
These delicious roasted red potatoes are the simplest side starch you can make for dinner. And all it needs is some seasoning before roasting. For the best roasted potatoes, some prep work is required. • Wash your potatoes to remove all the dirt and debris from the surface. • Then cut them all in half. If the potatoes are bigger, feel free to dice them. • In a bowl, toss the cut potatoes with olive oil, your seasonings, and the parmesan cheese and make sure the spice mix and oil coats the
entire surface. • Lay out the potatoes on a baking dish wrapped in foil so that the cut side is up. Now, these spuds are prepped for roasting!
HOW TO ROAST RED POTATOES
When roasting potatoes, it’s important to make sure it’s cooked all the way through. No one likes raw potatoes in the middle! • Place the tray of oiled, spiced, cut side up potatoes in the oven for 15 minutes at 400°. • After those 15 minutes, take out the pan and turn all the potatoes over so they are cut side down. • Put the pan of potatoes back into the oven so it can continue to cook for about 15-20 minutes so they are tender when you poke them with a fork. • They should look nice and crisp by now, with an appetizing golden brown color. • As always, we’ve got you covered if you don’t have an oven, or if your oven is occupied. You can use an air fryer for similar results. • Just put your seasoned potatoes in the basket and fry for about 20 to 25 minutes. • You can use a crockpot for this side too! Using a crockpot is even easier because you don’t have to lay out all the pieces. • Toss in the potatoes, mix in the seasonings, and you can put your potatoes on low to cook for the next 4 hours. They won’t be as crispy as oven grilled, but they sure will taste amazing! Don’t sneak too many pieces, your family’s going to wonder why there’s so little left. I don’t blame you at all though!
Bro. Derrick A. Butts
Sweet Potato Soufflé Ingredients • 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes • 3/4 cup white sugar • 1/3 cup butter, softened (Land Of Lakes) • 2 eggs • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1/2 cup milk
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1/3 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup packed brown sugar 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans 1/3 cup melted butter (Real Butter i.e. Land Of Lakes) Add all ingredients to list
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). 2. Combine the mashed sweet potatoes with the white sugar, soft butter or margarine, beaten eggs, vanilla and milk. Spoon into a 2 quart oven proof baking dish. 3. Combine the coconut, flour, brown sugar, chopped nuts and melted butter. Sprinkle over the top of the sweet potatoes. 4. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 30 to 35 minutes.
Brother Garrett Miller
Pineapple Jalapeño Smash With the dog days of Summer upon us and Lazy Long Labor Day weekend round the corner, I couldn’t think of a better cocktail than a vodka sweetened with pineapple juice, tart lime and the kick of jalapeños all muddled together and strained over ice. Let’s get at it! Ingredients • • • • •
6 1-inch pineapple chunks 1 fresh jalapeño sliced thin (3 pieces) 1/2 lime juiced 3 ounces pineapple juice 1.5 ounces Titos Vodka
Muddle the pineapple chunks, jalapeño, and lime juice in a heavy bottomed shaker until juiced. In goes the 3 oz of pineapple juice, vodka and ice. Shake vigorously. Strain into an old fashioned glass filled with ice and garnish with reserved jalapeño slices and a wedge of pineapple. Sip poolside with your favorite BBQ or seafood boil. That’s it Bruhs! Cheers & Happy Labor Day, Brother Drew Love
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Mu Lambda is having it’s 2019 Alpha Move - for the Community and Friends on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 - FREE Location: Carter Baron Parking Lot - 16th and Colorado Ave. NW Time: 08:30am - 11:00am (2.5 hours) - Registration Check-in will open at 08:15am. 5K Walk/Run (3.2 miles) and/or Cycle up to 20 miles - Mostly Flat terrain with some hills Scenic and shaded site in the newly paved Rock Creek Park on Beach Dr. Water and some healthy snacks will be provided.
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Black MEN-tal Health Greetings Brothers, I admit, when I was approached to contribute a “mental health” article to the Torch, I found myself faced with a certain level of anxiety; which is a feeling rooted in fear. I was not sure of the commitment and was afraid I would not have the ability to contribute to the lives and wellbeing of the Brothers of Mu Lambda through my writing. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I thought about the clients I work with on a daily basis. I thought about my own Black Man-ness. I thought about experiences in my life and how they impacted my sense of self as I desperately tried to navigate a world which did not know what to do with me. My educational and professional aspirations, at times, made me feel isolated from my family, the friends I grew up with, and even other Black men. I reflected on barriers, seen and unseen, which became significant in understanding the ways I behaved. I remembered the individuals in my life who poured into me and helped me see more clearly who I am becoming. I remembered what it felt like to acknowledge the power I hold and the space in which I continue to need support. I learned the traumas I denied, the feelings I suppressed, and the types of validation I sought, held me captive. I walked through the world with a tough exterior all the while praying and hoping no one would really be able to see into the stressed, insecure, frightened, and lonely me. I eventually came to understand my mental health was of utmost importance. In the acceptance of my own journey and in the knowledge of a vocation I approach with humility, I hope to use this space to encourage each of you to take notice of your own mental health and seek the support of professionals, the Brothers in this chapter and anyone else who is invested in your wellness. My prayer
is to use this column as a place for transparency, motivation, and information. I am sincerely humbled to be able to journey with you through this contribution. I want to highlight the relationship between our thoughts, our feelings, and our behaviors. Known as the “Cognitive Triad,” many of us are not aware of this relationship but see its manifestation in our life in multiple ways; usually through behavior, both healthy and unhealthy. The Cognitive Triad illustrates we may feel a particular way, which causes us to have specific thoughts, which then may prompt us to act in a specific
We prove to “them” we can make something of ourselves but in doing so our accomplishments still do not seem to be enough. We continue to feel inadequate, insignificant and think the anecdote is doing more; bigger and better. We do not realize we may be responding to and reinforcing those same negative core beliefs from earlier stages in our lives. We are trying to prove to “them” in order to prove to “ourselves” we are capable, adequate, significant, and worthy of love and respect. On the other hand, some of us may experience these thoughts and feelings with such intensity we go about drowning them out; quite literally. Since September is National Recovery Month, acknowledging many of us have turned to alcohol and various forms of drugs as a means for avoiding (behavior) our thoughts and feelings; primarily about ourselves, is relevant.
way. Many of us are blinded in the realm of identifying our feelings and challenging our thoughts. As Black men, many of us were raised to suppress our feelings. We were taught showing emotion was “soft.” We were also taught we, as Black men, would remain at the bottom of the social ladder, never to really make much of ourselves. So, what happens when we suppress our emotions and are taught to think of ourselves in certain ways?!? It depends! Some of us choose to move toward high levels of achievement (behavior) while not necessarily understanding our achievement is linked to a “negative core belief” (negative thoughts) about ourselves.
In space of this column we will directly speak to the barriers, behaviors, relationships, and inner critical thoughts driving mental health issues within the Black community and specifically with Black men. Many of us have ignored our own needs in this area for too long and its bending us to a point of breakage; whether we choose to acknowledge it or not. Most importantly we will explore what we can do to pivot toward living a rich and meaningful life in which we care for the hearts and minds of one another while letting ourselves be cared for. Let me be the first to offer my support. If you have questions or would like basic information about counseling, therapy, and other mental health concerns, please contact me at jac@croneesquivelgroupllc.com. Your Brother in Alpha, Brother Jamaal A. Crone
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MISSING TEETH! A PROBLEM OR NOT? Most adults have a full complement of thirty two teeth. It appears that the jaws of human beings are beginning to shorten skeletally as many no longer have third molars (wisdom teeth) while others have no lateral incisors, thus decreasing the number of a full complement. The upper jaw, or maxilla of an adult, normally has sixteen teeth and the lower jaw, the mandible, also has sixteen. These teeth are arranged in a specific manner and come together or “occlude” in a specific way. When teeth do not occlude as designed, the condition is called “malocclusion” or bad occlusion. If the lower jaw is much smaller than the upper jaw, the condition is call retrognathism. If the lower jaw is much larger than the upper jaw or positioned more anteriorly than the upper jaw, that condition is called prognathism. Malocclusion may be a result of developmental anomalies where the jaws do not develop as they should, or that the size of the teeth and the jaws are not compatible, a condition describe as having a father’s teeth and a mother’s jaws, finger sucking as a child, delayed eruption of teeth or several other reasons.
The cure for this condition usually results in orthodontic treatment.(Braces) The Orthodontist is the dental specialist who corrects these problems oftimes with the aid of an Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon, if tooth extraction or jaw repositioning is necessary. Crowded teeth also make cleaning a problem and may lead to significant periodontal (gum) disease and cavities. The inability to masticate properly may also lead to gastric problems such as GERD, digestive problems and even hiatal hernia issues. Orthodontic treatment is usually predicated on the fact that if you place lateral pressure on a tooth, the area of bone where the pressure is felt will shrink or resorb and the tooth will move in the direction of the pressure. The space left behind where the tooth moved from, will fill in with bone to compensate for the tooth movement and restableize the tooth. The most common reason for malocclusion, however is the loss and lack of replacement of teeth. When a tooth is lost, there is a space left where it came from. Nature, then, in attempt to close the space, causes the teeth on either side of the space to try to close that space by moving towards the void. This often creates malocclusion or a coming together of teeth that is not the preferred one. If an upper tooth is removed and not replaced, the opposing lower tooth begins to extrude in an attempt to fill in the space. The same is true of the removal of a lower tooth; the upper tooth extrudes to try to fill in the space. Teeth adjacent to the space also try to lean forwards or backwards to close the same space and the original occlusion is then destroyed. The longer the space exists, the more the adjacent teeth will move. This leads to problems with closing of the mouth and causes the individual to begin to move the jaw in eccentric positions to allow for comfortable closure, problems with chewing and swallowing and even problems with speech and the enunciation of certain sounds. It is therefore important to replace teeth when they are extracted if one is to maintain good occlusion and function. While most people suffer no severe consequences from having an incomplete set of teeth, some develop severe oromyofacial pain syndromes, which may manifest themselves as constant headaches, clicking sounds or pain in the ears on opening and closing, cheek and tongue biting and a host of other maladies. Should you have specific questions related to Dentistry, they may be submitted to the Editor of the Torch and will be addressed in the following issue. Brother Ryle A. Bell
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Alpha Phi Alpha Brother Who Had A Heart Attack At Age 29 Opens Up About How Running Saved His Life The following was written by Sam Prewitt a Spring 2006 initiate of the Omicron Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha in Columbus, OH.
Did you know, cardiovascular disease is responsible for about one of every three deaths in the United States? On average, coronary artery disease (CAD) will take a life every minute this year. But heart attacks usually only happen to old people right? Since the average age for a man’s first heart attack is 65, I ignored the statistics. I ignored the fact that according to statistics: • Black Americans are at greater risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke than White Americans. • Black women (49%) and Black men (44%) have higher rates of heart disease than White men (37%) and White women (32%). • Between the ages of 45 and 64, Black men have a 70% higher risk and Black women have a 50% greater risk of developing heart failure than White men and women. • The earlier onset of heart failure means higher rates of hospitalization, earlier disability, and higher rates of premature death (death before the
•
age of 65) for Black Americans. The annual rate of first heart attacks and first strokes is higher for Black Americans than White Americans.
If that’s not enough, I ignored the fact my Father had 3 heart attacks and a stroke. I ignored the fact that I was diagnosed high cholesterol in the 8th grade. Worst of all, even though I was very active, in shape, and in overall good health at 26 years old, my doctor told me six simple words that I will never forget…“You won’t live to see 30.” My first thought when the doctor told me that was, “Yeah right!!!” I was always taught that doctors are good for saying completely ridiculous things to try to scare you into taking medicines you don’t need and racking up bills. But in 3 short years, I would find out how wrong I was and how right the doctor ALMOST was. Running Saved His Life continued on next page
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As scary as those words were I did attempt to make some slight changes. I started running in a running club. Even though I hated running, the real reason I joined was because I figured I could meet some cool new people, along with getting in shape.
Start slow – Whatever you do, don’t think you can just up and do two, three or maybe even four miles because you see your friends doing it. Be realistic. Start with a mile, and then work your way up. Remember Rome wasn’t built in a day.
However, after months of running, finishing with good times, and finishing ahead of the pack, I still felt tired, and worn down after runs. I always thought to myself, why couldn’t I ever get in shape like the others?
Download a App – This is how I actually started running. I downloaded couch 2 5k and it was amazing. It allowed me to start slow, and work myself up all while tracking my progress. I highly recommend this.
But I found out why the hard way one weekend. After starting one of our weekly runs, I noticed I was slower than usual. People in the run group who usually finish last were passing me. Confused and filled with pride I continued to try to push myself but my body said no and I had to stop. I couldn’t catch my breath, I was pouring down with sweat, and my body was sore. I felt like I just ran a marathon.
Join a club – Funny thing is when I joined #runwiththewinners, I never really went for running. I wanted to make some new friends! Well I did that and then they held me accountable for showing up! Funny how that worked out!
I called my girlfriend, (now my wife) and told her something was wrong. After that call, I had a since of accomplishment and decided to close my eyes to try to rest up and maybe get myself together. If I would have fallen asleep in that moment that could have possibly been the end for me. Thank God for my fellow runners, they called 911 and kept me conscious until the EMS arrived. When I went to the hospital, the doctor figured out it was a heart attack. A heart attack? Really? I was only 29 years old! Those things don’t happen to young people right? Well, not only was it a heart attack it was a massive heart attack. I had a 95% blockage in my right coronary artery, and had to get an emergency stent. According to the doctor, if I hadn’t been running as much as I was, then it would have been a lot worse and happened earlier. If I didn’t start running, that doctor from 3 years ago would have been right. All those times I went running when I didn’t want to, for pushing myself when I didn’t feel like it and for strong relationships within the running club saved my life.
Run and Walk – If you haven’t run in a while, its pretty hard to go straight thru a running set without walking. Instead of beating yourself up for stopping, just start with intervals. Try running for 30 secs, then walking for 2 mins. It works wonders! Trust the treadmill – I can’t even believe I’m saying this because I hate the treadmill! But…it has it advantages. It allows you to run at your pace and build yourself up. Give it a try! Life is precious so make sure you aim to be Heartstrong. That means cook instead of going to that fast food place. That means go workout, even when you don’t feel like it. That means think about what you love, who you love and what you are passionate about and make changes to stick around for them. Those are the things in your heart that you need to protect, and what being Heartstrong is all about. So remember, protect your heart, and everything in it. Be Heartstrong. Link: https://www.watchtheyard.com/alphas/hearthealth-alpha/ Link: https://www.watchtheyard.com/alphas/hearthealth-alpha/
So now with my second chance at life, and successfully making it to a healthy 32-year-old man, I encourage people to be Heartstrong. That means make one decision that could possibly save your life. My Heartstrong decision was running. Physical activity is very important in preventing heart disease. If you don’t know where to start, consider these five tips on how to start running: SEPTEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 52
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Contact us at ads@mulambda.org
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BROTHER
MALCOLM CARTER 6-B-87
OWNER & FRANCHISEE Domino’s Domino’s Domino’s Domino’s Domino’s Domino’s Domino’s Domino’s
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AKSTAR APPAREL STORE
WWW.AKSTARAPPAREL.COM Shop Online Today and get 10% off your next purchase by using discount code RepTheAK
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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 SEPTEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 57
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BRO. WILLIS L. LONZER, III Nominee for General President 47 W Polk St., Suite 100-346 | Chicago, Illinois 60605-2000
September 1, 2019
Dear Brothers of Mu Lambda, I wanted to take an opportunity to briefly reintroduce myself to the men of Mu Lambda Chapter. As a native of Richmond Virginia, where I grew up and my dad challenged me to not only pursue a college degree, but to advance with a sense of responsibility to our people. Eventually, I matriculated to Delaware State University, an HBCU, pledged Alpha Phi Alpha, and graduated with a degree in chemistry poised for a budding career in the medical field. Almost 30 years later, I reside in Chicago where I am a dedicated family man who is married to one of the smartest and baddest AKAs, my beautiful wife Pamela Lonzer and I have two adult sons and one beautiful daughter who is a rising senior in high school. Professionally, I have built a successful career as a business executive in leading international pharmaceutical corporations. Also, I am a man of faith and a member of the Greater Institutional AME Church also located in Chicago. I have also served our fraternity zealously on every level through the collegiate to alumni levels and have been able to demonstrate an ability to build strong teams, to marshal our brothers through initiatives and challenges and to deliver results for our Brotherhood. As a nominee for General President, I am confident and prepared on day 1 to serve and lead our Brotherhood. If you elect me, I am: 1. Ready to run Alpha operations like a business to get results 2. Ready to improve the customer experience for Brothers and improving the return on investment for Brothers 3. Ready to build a team of expert Brothers to help drive our initiatives and to be relentless on delivering results to our Brotherhood. Brothers, as we move forward, I look forward to engaging each of you and talking about the plan to take Alpha to the Next Level! Fraternally,
Willis L. Lonzer, III Nominee for General President SEPTEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 59
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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 SEPTEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 61
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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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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. SEPTEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 62
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The Inaugural “Butterfly Ball “ is a Fundraiser for the Consortium Leadership Foundation’s Harris Scholars Program. The late Dr. Janette Hoston Harris would have celebrated her 80th birthday on this day in 2019. Our theme, “Let Love Rule,” speaks to the love Dr. Harris had for her husband and her city Washington, DC. Dr. Harris loved to paint butterflies, so during this inaugural event, our theme immersion is the beautiful colors of the Butterfly. Attire is upscale, chic, and colorful.(Website taketheleadclf.org)
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Beta Chapter Alumni Association 2019 Howard University Homecoming Golf Classic!! Friday October 11, 2019 Mitchellville MD @ Country Club at Woodmore. Includes green fees, cart and catered lunch. Prizes and awards presentations immediately following round, during lunch. 100% of the proceeds from the Golf Classic will be donated to the Beta Chapter Alumni Association Endowed Scholarship Fund at Howard University. This is a great opportunity for you and your organization to receive exposure and help to support Howard University students. Ticket and Sponsorship Information Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bcaa-2019howard-homecoming-golf-classic-tickets-60909905166 SEPTEMBER 2019 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 64
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MU LAMBDA CHAPTER
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2nd through 5th
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Message from the Editor Greeting Brothers, My message is simple this month!
BRO. KENNETH A. WILLIAMS EDITOR OF THE TORCH torch@mulambda.org
VOTE
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
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.