The Mu Lambda Torch - January 2023

TWO JEWELS & TWENTY MEN OF ALPHA

OUR CHAPTER

Mu Lambda is Alpha's eleventh alumni chapter, chartered October 1, 1923, in Washington D.C. The chapter was established, in part, in response to the desire of graduate brothers, many whom were initiated into Beta Chapter at Howard University, to give aid to the undergraduate brothers and continue the work of Alpha. Chartered by 22 distingushed men of Alpha which included Jewel Nathaniel Allison Murray and Jewel Robert Harold Ogle.

CHAPTER LEGACY

There has been six members who served as the General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and two whom served as the Eastern Region Vice President. Mu Lambda is equally proud of our current brothers making their mark in the Washington D.C. community and beyond. Our chapter has many entrepreneurs, activists, political leaders, philanthropists, academicians, ministers and so much more. Our diverse brotherhood age range is between the ages of 25 and 98. We all work together to maximize the brotherhood of Alpha by following the Objective, Mission and AIMS of our Fraternity.

FIRST OFFICERS

The officers elected at the first meeting were Brother Harold StrattonPresident, Brother John Lowery-Vice President, Brother Victor DalySecretary, Brother Daniel W. EdmondsTreasurer, and Brother Nathaniel Allison Murray (Jewel)-Chaplain. Mu Lambda was thus established and was on its way into history!

www.mulambda.org

In this Issue

Front Cover Picture by Names 2 In this Issue

Executive Board, Committee Chairs, Charter Members, Past Presidents

The Presidents’ Message

The Vice-Presidents’ Message

Tribute to Brother Fred Valentine!

Our Strong Arm! Brother Samuel Armstrong

Renaissance - 100th Anniversary Celebration

Community Service

Beta Chapter Turns 115 16 Lyle Love in Washington DC! 17 MAAC Founder’s Day Breakfast 2022 18 Health and Wellness - Glaucoma and Cervical Cancer 22 Celebrating Alpha Phi Alpha - Bro, Austin R. Cooper Jr, 24 Area Events Upcoming 27 97th General Convention Call! 28 Federal Donation Info to Mu Lambda Foundation 31 Literary Society 32 Dessert of the month - Pecan Crusted Cheesecake 33 Drink of the Month - The BROquito 35 Upcoming Events Calendar 36 Advertisements 45 Message from the Editor 46 Esprit de Fraternite

Executive Board

President

John “Tony” Wilson

Vice President Mikael LaRoche

Recording Secretary

Jason Jefferson

Corresponding Secretary

Samuel Armstrong Financial Secretary

Anthony Covington Sr.

Treasurer

Michael Young Chaplain

William “Tony” Hawkins

Historian Joesph Housey, III

Archivist Wesley McClure, II

Intake Coordinator Karl Bruce Assoc. Editor/Sphinx Justice Brown-Duso

Dir. Ed. Activities Sean Perkins

Sergeant-at-Arms Daniel Mushala Parliamentarian George McNeal

Director of Technology

Garrett Miller

Editor of the Torch Mikael LaRoche

Member at Large Joesph Gibbs

Risk Management Officer

Mikael E. LaRoche

General Council Justin Handford

Immediate Past President Eddie Neal

Committee Chairs

Auditing

A.J. Jones

Charter Members

Arthur Curtis*

Merrill H. Curtis* Victor R. Daly* Eugene L. C. Davidson* Arnold Donawa* Walter Garvin* William L. Hansberry* Charles H. Houston* Edward Howard* Joseph R. Jones* R. Frank Jones* J Edward Lowery* Clarence H. Mills*

Jewel Nathaniel Allison Murray* Norman L. McGhee* FN4 Jewel Robert Harold Ogle* Louis H. Russell* James N. Saunders*

Emory B. Smith* Harold C. Stratton*

J.H.N. Waring* Charles H. Wesley* FN3

Past Presidents

1. Harold Stratton* 1923 - 1924

2. Howard H. Long* FN2

3. Charles H. Wesley* 1926 - 1928 4. Frank Adams* 5. R. Frank Jones* 6. James B. Browning*

7. Jewel Henry Arthur Callis* FN1 8. U. Simpson Tate* 9. Claude Ferebee* 10. George O. Butler*

11. C.C. House* 1938 - 1940 12. Verdie L. Robinson* 13. Walter M. Booker* FN5

Social Media Chair Brown - Duso

CHARTERED ON MONDAY OCTOBER 1, 1923 WASHINGTON, D.C. FN1 6th General President 1915-1916 FN2 General Secretary 1915-1916 7th General President 1916-1917 FN3 14th General President 1931-1940 FN4 General Secretary 1920-1926 FN5 8th Eastern Regional Vice-President 1950-1953 FN6 23rd Eastern Regional Vice-President 2000-2001 Executive Director MLK Memorial

14. Jack Bond* 15. Millard R. Dean* 16. Frank Davis* 17. Clifton Hardy* 18. Herman Johnson* 19. Howard Jenkins* 20. C.C. House* 1952 - 1954 21. William F. Nelson* 22. Aubrey E. Robinson* 23. Joseph Waddy* 24. Edward J. Austin* 25. Elgy Johnson* 1964 - 1965 26. George H. Windsor* 1965 - 1967 27. James T. Speight* 1967 - 1969 28. Harold Sims* 1969 - 1970 29. Eddie L. Madison* 1970 - 1972 30. Wilbur Sewell* 1972 - 1974 31. Charles Walker Thomas* 1974 - 1976 32. Theodore Taylor* 1976 - 1978 33. Elmer Moore* 1978 - 1981 34. William E. Calbert* 1981 - 1983 35. Osmond Brown* 1983 - 1986 36. Vernon Gill 1986 - 1988 37. LeRoy Lowery, III 1988 - 1990 38. Morris Hawkins* 1990 - 1992 39. C.C. Jones 1992 - 1995 40. Vincent Orange 1995 - 1997 41. Melvin White 1997 - 1999 42. LeRoy Lowery, III FN6 1999 - 2001 43. James Haynes 2001 - 2002 44. Rudolph Harris* 2002 - 2004 45. Edwin Norwood 2004 - 2006 46. James McDonald 2006 - 2008 47. Timothy Fitzgerald 2008 - 2010 48. Kwame Ulmer 2010 - 2011 49. LeRoy Lowery, III 2011-2013 50. Eddie Neal 2013 - 2015 51. LeRoy Lowery, III 2015 - 2017 52. Joel Grey 2017 - 2018 53. Eddie Neal 2018 - 2020 54. John “Tony” Wilson 2020 -

* Omega Chapter Brothers Footnote (FN)

The President’s Message

Greetings Brothers and Happy New Year,

Usually, the start of a new year is filled with words of optimism and forward-leaning anticipation of what is ahead. For some a chance to “start over” or “do better”. And although that is in the air for us as a Chapter this year also starts with the transition to Omega Chapter long time Mu Lambda Brother Fred Valentine, (Beta Omicron 1955). So the start of the year is a mix of the somber reality of what awaits us all and a time to celebrate a life well lived, coupled with the start of a brand new year. I hope the reality of the cycle of life focuses and energizes you Brothers throughout the year. So here we are at the start of our 100th Charter Year. If I look at what is ahead for this year in regard to the preparations and execution of events to celebrate Mu Lambda’s Centennial and the history of Mu Lambda, I look at his as kind of two races, (mind you I have never run track and hated running as a Sphinxman which my line Brothers could attest to). The race to plan, execute, garner support, collect funds etc. for the Centennial events which have been going on now for over a year is more of a sprint, be it the 100 or 200 yard dash. A sprint when compared to the marathon that the existence of Mu Lambda has been for almost 100 years. A marathon that we are all a part of, that started before we were born, and that we are responsible for continuing and protecting this House. This particular 100 year old house in which dwells “all the noble, the true and courageous”, and is “the school for the better making of men”.

Fraternally, Tony Wilson Brother John “Tony” Wilson, President 2022 - 2023

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Mu Lambda Chapter

FAREWELL NATIONAL

It is with great sadness that we bid fairwell to our Brother Fred Valentine, former major league outfielder with the Washington Senators and Baltimore Orioles. He was called on to Omega Chapter on December 26, 2022 in Washington D.C. He was 87.

Valentine grew up in Memphis, Tennessee, where he excelled at Booker T. Washington High School in both baseball and football. A star quarterback and shortstop, he drew interest from multiple major league organizations out of high school; however, he decided to pursue his education at Tennessee A+I (now Tennessee State University).

At his college football coach’s behest, Valentine chose to sign with the Baltimore Orioles in 1956, despite offers from NFL teams.

Like many Black players in his era, Valentine

endured Jim Crow segregation in the South while playing in places like Wilson, North Carolina. Minor leaguers frequently received gifts from local businesses for stellar play. When Valentine went to collect his rewards, he was instantly reminded of the inequities he was fighting to escape.

“When I won something,” Valentine said in Bob Luke’s Integrating the Orioles, “which I did often, I couldn’t go in the front door. I’d have to go around back. If it was a meal, they’d box it up for me.”

Valentine persisted in the minors, receiving a call-up to Baltimore in 1959. He caught his big break in 1964 when the Senators purchased his contract from the Orioles He played with the Senators through 1968, even earning MVP votes in 1966. the 1970 season playing for the Hanshin Tigers in Japan.

In retirement, Valentine worked with a group of former major leaguers to establish the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association in 1982. He remained active in many charities, including the Firefighters Charitable Foundation, where he was an annual guest at their dinners and golf outings. He will be missed!

OUR STRONG ARM BRO.

Congratulations to Brother Samuel I Armstrong on receiving the 2022 MAAC Jewel Award during the MAAC Founders’ Day Breakfast. This year’s award was in honor of Jewel Eugene Kinckle Jones.

The objective of the Jewel Award is to recognize a brother within the MAAC who exemplifies the character, qualities, commitment and service to Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and to the

community, as did the honored Jewel.

Since initiation into Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated through the Chapter of Mu Lambda in Spring of 2003. Brother Samuel I. Armstrong has held close to his heart the foundations and principles set forth by our Beloved Jewels. Continuing the legacy Brother Armstrong has proven his commitment to Alpha’s mission “develops leaders, promotes brotherhood and academic excellence, while providing service and advocacy for our communities.” Holding several key leadership roles in Region, Area, and Chapter, curating local and out-of-state Alpha programing, interacting with community members, mentoring young men and Brothers.

Brother Armstrong has currently serves in vital positions including Area VI Associate Director, Mu Lambda’s Corresponding

Secretary, and the Chairman of the Anthony L. Cheatham Leadership Development Institute-South (ALC LDISouth) for the Eastern Region after serving 15 years as a Committee member.

During the Coronavirus pandemic ALC LDISouth moved to a virtual setting considering the safety and well-being of Brothers and the young men who attended the leadership conference. Despite skepticism Brother Armstrong led efforts to return to an in-person conference during June 2022. Working alongside internal and external stakeholders Brother Armstrong assembled a team of Brothers and mentors and engaged parents and students to ensure a successful program where 35 young men (also known as Ambassadors) were welcomed from Maryland, Virginia, Washington,DC, and Kansas to Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. Brother Armstrong urged moving ALC LDI-South to the PAAC for the first time in 39 years to encourage participation from a wider pool of young men in need of intervention from the Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated. This year’s program included lawyers, doctors, educators, business leaders, military and government professionals, members of the Philadelphia Police Department, community policing advocates, and more. The Ambassadors who attended the leadership conference conveyed their appreciation and advised the impact of the programming on their lives was extremely life-changing.

Brother Armstrong also serves on Mu Lambda’s Henry Arthur Callis Academy committee. This committee is responsible for mentoring high and middle school young men throughout Washington, DC. Currently mentoring at Ballou High School, Hines Middle School, and Kramer Middle School. Kramer Middle School is the latest addition to mentoring efforts. Brother Armstrong believes intervention at the middle school age is vital to

disrupting the pipeline to prison through interaction, conversation, exploration and determination.

In 2021, Brother Armstrong was appointed to serve as Area VI Associate Director. He serves alongside the Area Director ensuring the six chapters in Area VI collaborate in an efficient and effective manner. In the absence of the Area Director Brother Armstrong has filled the role of Chief Dean during IMDP Spring 2022 overseeing the transition from certified candidates to Brothers of this great Fraternity.

InJanuary 2022 Brother Armstrong planned and executed an Area wide community service event where over 60 Brothers volunteered at Capital Food Bank providing over 500 meals to hungry families and individuals throughout the Washington, DC Region who otherwise could not provide for themselves. Also serving as March of Dime Chapter Captain Mu Lambda raised roughly $10,000 of which he personally raised upward $3,000. This accomplishment was recognized with the Greek Week Challenge Champion from the March of Dimes Greater Washington DC organization.

We salute our STRONG ARM!

Thank you Bro. for All that you do to RAISE THE LIGHT OF ALPHA HIGH!

MU LAMBDA IS SERVICE

Annual Toy Drive

On Saturday, December 10, the brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Mu Lambda Chaptergathered at the DC Child and Family Services building (CFSA) for the annual Toy Drive.

Brothers unloaded and organized toys and books for children ranging from toddlers to teenagers

We are kicking off this fraternal year with the official Chapter MLK Day of Service community service activity hosted by Area

VI (DC Alphas) on Monday 1/16/2023 @ 9:00 AM!

Meeting Point- Sousa Middle School, 3650 Ely Pl SE. Washington DC 20019 United States)

Brothers will assist the Mission Continue in transforming the inside of the school. We will decorate/paint areas of the school with HBCU (pennants, slogans, nalia, etc. in addition to other service activities!

SAVE THE DATE

Celebrating the Life of Bro. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr with the Mu Lambda Foundation!

Sunday 1/15/2023 10:00 AM-Noon Busboys and Poets 625 Monroe Street Northeast Washington, DC 20017

Fraternally, Bro. Jeffery Taylor Mu Lambda Community Service Chair (301) 335-9699

BETA CHAPTER TURNS 115

The brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Mu Lambda Chapter would like to extend a hearty congratulations to our Beta Chapter Brothers on their celebration of 115 Years of Service to Howard University. Marked by the traditions of the chapter, 2022 saw Beta welcome brothers from

Alpha Chapter, Mu Lambda and many other surrounding chapters who decided to join the chapter for its annual rededication ceremony.

The Brothers of Beta Chapter along with their alumni also came together in fellowship via Zoom to continue in the spirit of Manly Deeds, Scholarship and Love for All Mankind.

Congratulations! Brothers... Happy 115

By - Brother M. LaRoche

LYLE LOVE IN DC

Mu Lambda Brother Guy Durant, married Sharon Williams (Sister of Xi Omega chapter) of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated on Friday, December 23rd, 2022 at approximately 3pm in Chantilly Virginia.

During the Reception the Sorors of AKA sang the AKA hymn to Sharon in a circle and the Alpha Brothers present sang the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated hymn to me in the presence of my bride in a circle as well.

Our Wedding colors were Christmas themed but we included Black and Gold elements (including my Tuxedo) and we also included some pink and green colors in the wedding and reception as well.

This was my first time ever being married. I am 58 years young. Well wishes can be emailed to

GuySharonForever@gmail.com

We appreciate Mu Lambda Brother Gilbert Douglas and his wife Charlotte attending as well.

Health & Wellness| BROs KEEPER

GLAUCOMA AWARENESS MONTH

Glaucoma is a leading cause of vision loss and blindness in the United States. Glaucoma has no early symptoms — that’s why half of people with glaucoma don’t know they have it. Glaucoma has been nicknamed the “sneak thief of sight” because it often goes undetected and causes irreversible damage to the eye. There are usually no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. Many people have glaucoma but are not aware of it, making it a very scary, silent eye disease.

As the disease progresses, vision seems to fluctuate and peripheral vision fails. If left untreated, vision can be reduced to tunnel vision and eventually, total blindness. The only way to find out if you have glaucoma is to get a comprehensive dilated eye exam. There’s no cure for glaucoma, but early treatment can often stop the damage and protect your vision.

Anyone can get glaucoma, but those at higher risk include:

• Everyone over age 60, especially African Americans over age 40

• People with a family history of glaucoma

CERVICAL HEALTH AWARENESS

Cervical Health Awareness Month 2022

More than 14,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with invasive cervical cancer each year, but the disease is preventable with vaccination and appropriate screening. The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 4,000 women died from the cancer. However, cervical cancer cases and related deaths have dropped significantly in the past 40 years because of lifesaving tests like the Pap smear, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). According to the American Cancer Society, cervical cancer is most frequently diagnosed in women between the ages of 35-44 and rarely in women younger than the age of 20.

Brotherhood is real

It grows a boy and a man into a man It shows through Brotherhood

That you are loved

For who you are and can be It’s the support the unconditional love The kindness

The calls and conversations Through good times and bad Brothers are here and there For you and with you Supporting you Holding you Lifting you up Showing you and us That we are here for you

We are here for each other The common ground of brotherhood Without our brothers, What do we have? With brothers what do we have Each other The support The mechanisms The belief that it’s possible that we can achieve the impossible Dream!

We can reach the mountain top for our brother

For whatever it is for you, my brother Because as brothers Because we are brothers We will walk together Talk together Build on one another My Brother!

ALPHA love ‘06

by

Brother Daniel Mushala, Mu Lambda ‘21

CELEBRATING A-PHI-A

By - Brother Austin R. Cooper Jr.

Seven men of vision

One-hundred-sixteen years ago, seven students founded Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on the campus of Cornell University.

The seven young men of vision were: Henry Arthur Callis, Charles Henry Chapman, Eugene Kinckle Jones, Nathaniel Allison Murray, Vertner Woodson, Robert Harold Ogle and George Biddle Kelley. Each of the seven recognized the need for a strong bond of brotherhood among African descendants in the United States.

Alpha Phi Alpha is the first intercollegiate Greek-letter Fraternity established for Black men.

Alpha in my blood

My introduction to the fraternity was through my father, the late Brother Austin R. Cooper Sr.

An Episcopal priest, my father was very active in the community of Cleveland, Ohio, where I spent my formative years.

His brother and my uncle, the late Brother Clement Theodore Cooper, was also an Alpha, here in Washington, D.C.

My father pledged at the Gamma Psi Chapter of Saint Augustine’s University, Raleigh, North Carolina. My uncle “crossed the burning sands” at the Nu Chapter at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania.

So, you see, Alpha Phi Alpha is quite literally

in my blood. And as my father used to tell me and others, “Oh, Austin has a choice of fraternities, but just one.” However, choosing a fraternity was truly a no-brainer.

Other childhood idols included numerous distinguished members at the time, including, but not limited to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, U.S. Senator Edward W. Brooke, U.S. Representative Adam Clayton Powell, scholar, singer and activist Paul Robeson, author and humanitarian W.E.B. DuBois, former United Nations Ambassador Andrew Young, and music legend Duke Ellington.

Becoming an Alpha

When I arrived on the campus of Saint Augustine’s University in August 1979, I immediately noticed that the men of the Gamma Psi Chapter were focused on two things: education and scholarship. The Alphas were known as the campus scholars and Gamma Psi Brothers had some of the highest-grade point averages on campus.

They were involved in all campus activities, including student government. Gamma Psi was known for various community engagement efforts, such as voterregistration efforts leading up to the 1980 presidential campaign between former Presidents Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan.

I completed the pledge process as a sophomore and December 5, 1980, remains one of the proudest days of my life as I officially became a member of Alpha Phi Alpha. My father was present that evening and pinned me.

“Servants for All”

Today, forty-two years later, the fraternity remains an important part of my life. I am a member of the Mu Lambda Chapter of Washington, D.C.

of which my Uncle Theodore belonged for over fifty years.

As a member, I serve on the education committee, where one of our community engagement activities includes monthly mentorship meetings with young men at Ballou Senior High School in Southeast. These young men are our future and I am confident that such one-on-one interactions, which resumed last month after a two-plus year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will have a positive impact on their lives.

You see, when done properly, mentorship works both ways for the mentor and mentee. My Alpha Brothers and I are inspired by them just as much –

and possibly more. We seek to strive to be reliable and long-term sources of inspiration, guidance, and support for these young men.

And at the end of the day, community service and human kind, around the world, remains a core mission of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., 116 years later. “First of All, Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All.”

Washington Informer

https://www.washingtoninformer.com/ celebrating-alpha-phi-alpha-fraternity-inc/

Austin Cooper Jr. is managing editor of Our House -and has been a member of Alpha Phi Alpha since 1980. He serves as the President of Cooper Strategic Affairs, Inc. The firm provides legislative, political and communications counsel in Washington, D.C.,

Mission

House of Ruth empowers women, children and families to rebuild their lives and heal from trauma, abuse and homelessness.

Vision: Much More Than Housing

House of Ruth offers comprehensive support for women, children and families. Our continuum of services encompasses enriched housing for families and single women, trauma-informed daycare for children, and free counseling to empower anyone, regardless of gender, who is a survivor of trauma and abuse. Our programs provide individualized support to rebuild safe, independent, and sustainable lives.

https://houseofruth.org

Adopt-A-Block

Keeping our city clean & green

Residents, businesses, and the government all play a role in keeping DC clean, safe, and healthy. Only by involving all residents and each community can we create a District as beautiful as we know it can be.

Success begins with one neighbor and one community deciding to make a difference. Anyone can participate: individuals, families, churches, businesses, schools and other groups and organizations.

• 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.

Adopting a block in the District of Columbia has many benefits:

FEDERAL DONATIONS TO MU LAMBDA

Brothers, it is that time of year when we begin to think in the spirit of giving and giving thanks. In that spirit, the Mu Lambda Foundation participates in two key funding programs through which federal and District of Columbia employees can share the gift of the giving.

The Combined Federal Campaign - CFC (https://www.opm.gov/combined-federal-campaign) is a resource that allows U.S. government employees to make regular payroll deductions in support of the Mu Lambda Foundation and its charitable and community service programs.

The DC One Fund (https://os.dc.gov/page/dc-one-fund-each-one-give-one) provides an opportunity for employees of the District of Columbia to do the same. All donations through these funds are tax deductible and deducted from your paycheck regularly. What could be an easier or better way to support the programs you care about?

As open season begins for 2023, you may plan your weekly, biweekly, or monthly contributions to the Mu Lambda Foundation by contributing to charity number 66770 in the CFC, and number 9556 in the DC One Fund.

Let’s make 2023 the best year yet for supporting youth and abused women in the DC area. Thank you for your continued support.

Bro. Kent Benjamin

The Mu Lambda Foundation meetings are bi-monthly on the third Thursday of the month.

Next meeting is Thursday, January 18, 2022

Next meeting is Saturday, January 7, 2022

Greeting Brothers,

The 2019-2022 fraternal year was dedicated to rediscovering our brotherhood. We serve the community, but we have been neglecting our bond of brotherhood.

Since Tuesday, April 21, 2020, Mu Lambda has hosted the Mu Lambda Literary Society, every week at 7:00 pm. The Mu Lambda Literary Society is a Mu Lambda initiative, where we come together as brothers and discuss the two volume Alpha history book over a period of months. It was facilitated by a different brother each week. Brothers participated via Zoom.

We started with volume 1, chapter 1 of the twenty second printing of the history book and conclude with volume 2, chapter 8. There are twenty chapters in volume 1 and eight chapters in volume 2. It was totally voluntary. You were not required to purchase the new history book. Brother Robert L. Harris, Jr. our National Historian and author of Volume II has participated in the sessions, and all sessions are chaired by our own Bro. Ryle Bell.

Volume I Lesson

Chapter I The Origin of Alpha Phi Alpha Chapter II The Period of Consolidation Chapter III The First Steps in Expansion Chapter IV Local and National Strivings Chapter V Permanent Foundations Chapter VI Expansion and Internal Development Chapter VII The Leaven of Self-Examination Chapter VIII The War Interlude Chapter IX A Definite Program Chapter X The Crowning Years Chapter XI Advancement in Spite of the Depression Chapter XII The Widening Social Program Chapter XIII Education and War Chapter XIV A Militant Liberalism Chapter XV The Concept of Progress Chapter XVI The Golden Anniversary Chapter XVII Shaping the Future on the Basis of the Past Chapter XVIII The Continuing Challenge Chapter XIX New Goals for Old Chapter XX Social Purpose and Social Action

Volume II Lesson

Chapter I Back to Basics Chapter II Achieving Tomorrow: An Agenda for the 80’s Chapter III Strengthening Internal Capacity for Greater Service Chapter IV Facing Our Future with a Future Chapter V The Alpha Renaissance: Rekindling the Spirit of Leadership and Community Service Chapter VI Vision 2000: The Light of a New Day Chapter VII Alpha Attitude: A Forward Step… Into the Future

Chapter VIII A Solid Foundation for the New Era of Alpha

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

LE CARAMEL CAKE

INGREDIENTS

CAKE:

• 3 CUPS WHITE SUGAR

• 1 & 1/2 CUPS BUTTER

• 5 LARGE EGGS

• 3 & 1/2 CUPS ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR

• 1/2 TEASPOON BAKING POWDER

• 1/4 TEASPOON SALT

• 1 & 1/2 CUPS WHOLE MILK

• 1 TEASPOON VANILLA EXTRACT

ICING:

• 1 (16 OUNCE)

PACKAGE BROWN SUGAR

• 1 CUP BUTTER

• 1/4 TEASPOON SALT

• 2/3 CUP EVAPORATED MILK

• 1 (16 OUNCE)

PACKAGE CONFECTIONERS; SUGAR, SIFTED

• 2 TEASPOONS PURE VANILLA EXTRACT

DIRECTIONS

1. PREHEAT THE OVEN TO 350 DEGREES F (175 DEGREES C). GREASE AND FLOUR THREE 9-INCH CAKE PANS.

2. MAKE CAKE: PLACE WHITE SUGAR AND BUTTER INTO A MIXING BOWL. BEAT WITH AN ELECTRIC MIXER ON MEDIUM SPEED UNTIL LIGHT AND FLUFFY. ADD EGGS, ONE AT A TIME, MIXING WELL AFTER EACHADDITION.

3. COMBINE FLOUR, BAKING POWDER, AND SALT IN A SEPARATE BOWL. ADD FLOUR MIXTURE IN BATCHES, ALTERNATING WITH MILK, BEATING BATTER BRIEFLY AFTER EACH ADDITION. ADD VANILLA EXTRACT; BEAT UNTIL BATTER MAKES RIBBONS WHEN FALLING FROM THE BEATERS. DIVIDE BATTER AMONG THE PREPARED CAKE PANS.

4. BAKE IN THE PREHEATED OVEN UNTIL A TOOTHPICK INSERTED IN THE CENTER COMES OUT CLEAN, ABOUT 30 MINUTES. COOL ON A WIRE

RACK FOR 5 MINUTES. RUN A TABLE KNIFE AROUND THE EDGES TO LOOSEN. INVERT CAREFULLY ONTO A COOLING RACK. LET COOL, ABOUT 30 MINUTES.

5. MAKE ICING: COMBINE BROWN SUGAR, BUTTER, AND SALT IN A SAUCEPAN OVER MEDIUM HEAT. STIR UNTIL BROWN SUGAR IS DISSOLVED, ABOUT 3 MINUTES. ADD EVAPORATED MILK AND CONTINUE STIRRING. BRING TO A GENTLE BOIL AND LET BUBBLE FOR ABOUT 4 MINUTES, STIRRING CONSTANTLY TO AVOID STICKING. REMOVE FROM HEAT AND ALLOW TO COOL, ABOUT 5 MINUTES.

6. MIX CONFECTIONERS' SUGAR AND VANILLA EXTRACT INTO BROWN SUGAR MIXTURE USING AN ELECTRIC MIXER UNTIL ICING CARAMELIZES AND THICKENS TO THE DESIRED CONSISTENCY.

7. SPREAD ICING ONTO COOLED CAKE LAYERS. STACK LAYERS; ICE TOP AND SIDES.soften for 15 minutes before serving.

A REFESHING CUCUMBER MARTINI

INGREDIENTS

Cucumber Martini -2 shots Wiz Khalifa’s McQueen and the Violet Fog Gin -1/4 cucumber -bar salt -1/2 cup Sweet n Sour mix

Directions

(1) wet the rim of on martini glass with lemon (2) Turn glass upside down and line glass rim (3) muddle 1/4 cucumber after removing skin and dice

(4) add sweet & sour mix with with muddled cucumber, add 2 shots of the Wiz Khalifa’s gin (5) add ice shake all contents well then add to prepared glass

DRINK RESPONSIBLY!

Brother Rob Thomas

Thursday, January 5 Chapter Meeting Saturday, January 7 Alpha Wives Meeting Wednesday, January 18 Eboard Meeting

Thursday, February 2 Chapter Meeting Saturday, February 4 Alpha Wives Meeting Wednesday, February 16 Eboard Meeting Thursday, February 16 Foundation Meeting

Thursday, March 2 Chapter Meeting Saturday, March 4 Alpha Wives Meeting Wednesday, March 15 Eboard Meeting

Wednesday, April 13 -16 Eastern Region Convention Thursday, April 6 Chapter Meeting Saturday, April 8 Alpha Wives Meeting Wednesday, April 19 Eboard Meeting Thursday,April 20 Foundation Meeting

Thursday, May 4 Chapter Meeting Saturday, May 6 Alpha Wives Meeting Wednesday, May 17 Eboard Meeting

Thursday, June 1 Chapter Meeting Saturday, June 3 Alpha Wives Meeting Thursday, June 15 Foundation Meeting Wednesday, June 21 Eboard Meeting Monday, June 19 Juneteenth Day

July 26 - 30 97th General Convention July 2023 Chapter Vacation August 2023 Chapter Vacation

Thursday, September 7

Chapter Meeting Saturday, September 9 Alpha Wives Meeting Thursday, September 14 Foundation Meeting Wednesday, September 20 Eboard Meeting Saturday, September 30 Centennial Celebration

Sunday, October 1

100th Charter Day Thursday, October 5 Chapter Meeting Saturday, October 7 Alpha Wives Meeting Wednesday, October 18 Eboard Meeting Thursday, October 19 Foundation Meeting

Thursday, November 2 Chapter Meeting Saturday, November 11 Alpha Wives Meeting Wednesday, November 15 Eboard Meeting Thursday, November 23 Thanksgiving Day

Thursday,December 7 Chapter Meeting Monday, December 4 Founders’ Day Saturday , December 9 Alpha Wives Meeting Thursday, December 14 Foundation Meeting Wednesday, December 20 EBoard Meeting Sunday, December 25 Christmas

Domino’s

Domino’s

Domino’s

Domino’s

Domino’s

Domino’s

Domino’s

Domino’s

Everything Co-op, is a radio show that airs on WOL, Radio One’s premiere talk show station out of Washington, DC.

The show features people who have influenced or participated in the advancement of the cooperative business model to change lives.

Hosted by Brother Vernon Oakes

Listen every Thursday on WOL 1450AM or our website at http://everything.coop from 10:30am - 11am

Please Contact Brother Matt Aaron for Your Financial Planning Needs

Matt Aaron, CFP® Aaron Financial 908-548-2745 Matthew.aaron.jr@nm.com Website: Aaronfinancial.nm.com

Matt is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™

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• Budgeting

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• 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.

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This official Mu Lambda Chapter App is for members of the chapter to find out about our events, chat with Chapter members, View Chapter Documents, View Chapter Directory, View our monthly magazine (The Torch) Pay Chapter Dues and much more. The ability to effectively communicate with Chapter members will help us continue to develop leaders, promote brotherhood and academic excellence while providing service and advocacy for our community.

Message from the Editor

THANK YOU, My Brothers....

Happy New Year, and welcome to 2023. Of the 1116 Years of Manly Deeds, Scholarship and LOVE FOR ALL MANKIND, Mu Lambda has served for 99 of those years in Washington D.C. It continues to be an honor to serve this historic chapter as both the Vice President and Editor of the Torch this fraternal year and for this LEGACY of excellence.

As we rededicate our lives to Alpha for another fraternal year, i would like to encourage every brother to work hard to build ALPHA, Mu Lambda, Washington D.C., our families, communities and the world we occupy temporarily; leaving it better than we met it - for generations to come.

Fraternally,

BRO. MIKAEL LAROCHE EDITOR OF THE TORCH TORCH@MULAMBDA.ORG

ALPHA QUOTE TO SERVE

BY...

“THINK Alpha Phi Alpha, TALK Alpha Phi Alpha, PROMOTE Alpha Phi Alpha, and LABOR for the broad principles of idealism for which Alpha Phi Alpha was created, so that humanity shall look on us as a body worthwhile.”

Brother Henry L. Dickason, 5th General President

Bro.

LaRoche Editor in Chief

GOODWILL IS THE MONARCH OF THIS HOUSE

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 2022-2023 fraternal year runs September 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023. The chapter does not meet during July and August.

It is now time to pay your 2022-2023 dues which will cover you from January 1, 2023 to December 31, 2023.

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. You can pay on the Mu Lambda App

4. Mail it to:

Financial Team

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Mu Lambda Chapter 2405 First Street, NW Washington, DC 20001

Alpha is a life long commitment

An Alpha Phi Alpha man’s attitude should not be “how much can I derive from the Fraternity” but “how much can I do for the Fraternity?” In proportion to what he does for his Chapter and for Alpha Phi Alpha will a member receive lasting benefits from the Fraternity to himself in the way of self-development by duty well done, and the respect of the Brothers well served.

A member’s duties should be:

1. Prompt payment of all financial obligations, the prime requisite for successful fraternal life.

2. The doing of good scholastic work in his chosen vocation, thereby accomplishing the real end of a college course.

3. The reasonable endeavor to participate in general college activities and social service and to excel therein.

4. The proper consideration of all things with appropriate attention to the high moral standard of Alpha Phi Alpha.

Rest if you must, but don’t you quit.