Clarion Call Winter 2008 - Omega Psi Phi Fraternity
Transcription
Clarion Call Winter 2008 - Omega Psi Phi Fraternity
Winter 2008 , Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. mega’s Clarion Call Brother State Senator, Anthony Hill Accepts Florida State Legislature’s Apology For Slavery Interview With The 2nd Vice Grand Basileus, Brother Brian S. Gundy 2008 Undergraduate Summit Atlanta, Georgia BROTHER WILLIE FRANK HINCHEN EDUCATOR AND AN OMEGA MAN OF OUR TIME Contents Omega’s Clarion Call Vol. 1 * No. 4 * Winter 2008 An official publication of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Omega’s Clarion Call is published quarterly (Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter) by Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. at its publications office: 3951 Snapfinger Parkway; Decatur, GA 30035. Omega’s Clarion Call is mailed non-profit, standard mail with postage paid at Decatur, GA 30035 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to: Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Omega’s Clarion Call Contents Pages Grand Officers And Supreme Council Members 1 Former Grand Basilei 2 District Representatives 3 Editorial Board 4 Message From The Grand Basileus 5 Editor’s Commentary 7 Cover Story: Brother Willie F. Hinchen, Educator 8 Brian Gundy “Q And A” Lead In Story To The 3951 Snapfinger Parkway 2008 Undergraduate Summit Decatur, GA 30035 Omega’s Clarion Call deadlines Spring Issue - February 15 Summer Issue – May 15 Fall Issue- August 15 Winter Issue – November 15 DEADLINES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC. 11 Educators 27 Social Action 39 Mandated Programs 49 Human Interest 61 Florida State Legislature Apologizes For Slavery 75 Omega Chapter 77 Omega’s Clarion Call OMEGA’S Grand Officers and GRAND SupremeOFFICERS Council Members Warren G. Lee Jr. Grand Basileus (972) 484-9517 - Office (972) 484-9704 - Office Fax (972) 503-2718 - Home (972) 503-2715 - Home Fax (214) 587-2266 - Cell [email protected] Carl A. Blunt 1st Vice Grand Basileus (602) 263-7500 - Office (480) 502-3669 - Home (415) 468-2829 – Home (Sf) (415) 468-2829 – Cell (Sf) (415) 652-6223 - Cell [email protected] Antonio F. Knox Grand Keeper Of Finance (919) 839-8065 – Home (919) 571-4888 – Work (919) 609-8569 – Cell [email protected] Michael R. Adams. Grand Counselor (225) 925-0208 – Home (225) 346-8716 – Work (225) 892-4010 - Cell [email protected] Rev. Farrell Duncombe Grand Chaplain (334) 288-6634 – Home (334) 322-3640 – Cell (334) 318-6847– Cell (334) 727-4821 – Office (334) 727-4757 – Office [email protected] George H. Grace Immediate Past Grand Basileus (305) 260-8083 – Office (305) 232-1600 – Home (888) 929-7538 – Pager (305) 238-2921 – Fax (305) 936-6435 – Cell [email protected] [email protected] Joseph F. Bowers Jr. Undergraduate Representative (313) 538-9643 – Home (734) 487-3586 – Work [email protected] [email protected] James Mckoy Undergraduate Representatve (704) 852-4070 – Home (919) 423-2242 – Cell [email protected] Walter G. Body Grand Marshal Home 205-942-5735 Work 205-849-4785 Cell 205-410-8745 Email [email protected] Benjamin L. Hart Undergraduate Representative (601) 398-2261 - Home (601) 540-2961 – Cell (601) 979-2571 - Work [email protected] Brian S. Gundy 2nd Vice Grand Basileus (214) 621-7946 - Cell [email protected] Charles A. Bruce Grand Keeper Of Records And Seal (636) 227-3254 - Home (314) 553-3539 - Work (314) 703-6403 – Cell [email protected] 1 Omega’s Clarion Call FORMER GRAND BASILEI OMEGA’S FORMER GRANDAND BASILEI EX - OFFICIO SUPREME COUNCIL MEMBERS George H. Grace - (37th) Immediate Past Grand Basileus (305) 260-8083 – Office (305) 232-1600 – Home (888) 929-7538 – Pager (305) 238-2921 – Fax (305) 936-6435 – Cell [email protected] [email protected] Dr. Moses C. Norman, Sr. (33rd) (404) 696-8519 -home [email protected] 2 James S. Avery (28th) Olmf Board Member (609) 409-1365 - Home (609) 409-1384 – Fax [email protected] Quette – Joan C. Tyrone Gilmore, Sr. (34th) (864) 576-6348 – Home (864) 594-4398 - Fax (864) 809-7707 - Cell [email protected] Dr. Edward J. Braynon, Jr. (30th) Olmf Board Member (305) 932-7433 – Home/fax Contact – Keith (Son), 404- 241-4553 Dr. Dorsey Miller (35th) (954) 755-4822 – Home (954) 753-0864 – Home Fax (954) 332-0366 – Work (954) 332-0368 – Fax (954) 298-4042 – Cell [email protected] Burnel E. Coulon (31st) Olmf Board Member (317) 293-9919 – Home/fax (317) 523-8919 [email protected] [email protected] Lloyd Jordan Esq. (36th) (202) 663-7272 – Office (202) 256-3109 - Cell (202) 419-2838 – Fax [email protected] [email protected] Omega’s Clarion Call DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVES AND OMEGA’S DISTRIC REPRESENTATVES SUPREME COUNCIL MEMBERS Vaughn M. Willis 1st District Representative (203) 287-1941 – Home (203) 789-7111 – Work (203) 537-7307 – Cell [email protected] Horace W. Chase 5th District Representative (731) 668-1799 – Home (731) 695-0238 - Cell (731) 425-2610 – Work [email protected] Willie “Mercenary” Hinchen 9th District Representative Home: 972-274-3195 Cell: 972-979-4770 E-mail: [email protected] Marvin C. Dillard 2nd District Representative (201) 567-9819-home (201) 567-8306-home Fax (201) 220-1897-cell [email protected] Charles J. Worth 6th District Representative (252) 257-0787-home (252) 456-4738-fax (252) 456-2004-work (252) 213-1818-cell [email protected] Glenn A. Matthews 10th District Representative (608) 240-3612-work (414) 562-9479-home (414) 617-9464-cell [email protected] [email protected] Mark E. Jackson 3rd District Representative (202) 829-5256 – Home (703) 601-3929 – Work (202) 491-6011- Cell [email protected] - [email protected] Joseph T. Williams 7th District Representative (334) 727-2566 – Home/fax (334)) 703-0346 – Cell [email protected] Charles C. Peevy 12th District Representative (602) 617-3443 - Cell (480) 219-5269 [email protected] Dewey Ortiz 4th District Representative (614) 692-8257 work (614) 657-7044 home [email protected] [email protected] Jeffrey T. Smith 8th District Representative (800) 842-2638 Ext. 2166 – Office (303) 375-0514 – Home (303) 513-4437 - Cell [email protected] Jonathan N. Griffin Sr. 13th District Representative 011-49-160-331-8028 – Cell (803) 287-2628 – Worldwide [email protected] [email protected] 3 Omega’s Clarion Call Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Omega’s Clarion Call Publication Editorial Board Volume I * No. 2 * Summer 2007 * www.oppf.org Managing Editor Editorial Board Contributing Writers Winter 2008 , Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. mega’s Clarion Call Brother Troy Moore 3951 Snapfinger Parkway Decatur, GA 30035 (214)-769-5245 (c) (972)-554-1141, ext. 286 (o) Email: [email protected] Brother Carl A. Blunt Brother Reginald L. Braddock Brother Charles A. Bruce Brother Charles Johnson, Jr. Brother Warren G. Lee, Jr. Brother Troy Moore Brother Walter T. Richardson Brother George A. Smith Brother State Senator, Anthony Hill Accepts Florida State Legislature’s Apology For Slavery Interview With The 2nd Vice Grand Basileus, Brother Brian S. Gundy 2008 Undergraduate Summit Atlanta, Georgia Brother Dr. Charles A. Christopher BROTHER WILLIE FRANK HINCHEN District Directors Of Public Relations 1st District: Brother Keith Matthews 2nd District: Brother Zanes Cypress 3rd District: Brother Terrence Gilliam 4th District: Brother Christopher Welch 5th District: Brother L. Rodney Bennett 6th District: Michael A. Boykin 7th District: Brother Darron Toston 8th District: Brother Trevis Sallis 9th District: Brother Roger T. Watkins Assistant: Brother Wayne Pollard 10th District: Brother Tim Tyler 12th District: Brother Robert L. Woodson 13th District: Brother Eugene M. Horton, Jr. Brother Federico Waldrond (Korea) International Photographer Emeritus Brother John H. Williams International Photographer Brother Reginald Braddock Assistant International Photographers Brother James Witherspoon Brother Manny McCrea Brother George T. Smith Brother Galvin Crisp Jr. Brother Wayne Pollard Brother D’Wayne S. Young Brother Curtis Lawrence Videographer Brother Curtis Lawrence 4 EDUCATOR AND AN OMEGA MAN OF OUR TIME About The Cover Brother Willie Frank Hinchen served as an educator in the Wilmer-Hutchins Independent School District in Wilmer, TX at WilmerHutchins High School for 30 years before his retirement in May of 2004. As an educator with the School District, he was cast in a myriad of roles with responsibilities uncommon to his contemporaries. “…Willie Hinchen, who joined Omega at Jarvis Christian College in 1972, said pledging the Fraternity is a life long commitment. You stay financially involved and contribute your time and efforts to humanity through the Fraternity…you don’t stop after you graduate…” The Atlanta Constitution December 10th, 1995 Message From The Grand Basileus OMEGA PSI PHI 38th Grand Basileus, Brother Warren G. Lee, Jr. FRATERNITY, INC. Greetings! Years ago, my parents admonished me that “a degree is your key”. In our home, education was a very high priority. Over time, I have seen the emphasis on “getting a degree” diminish. In this issue of Omega’s Clarion Call, we have highlighted Education and educators. Our desire is to re-energize our community’s emphasis on education. Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is an organization of educated men. Therefore, I run the risk of “preaching to the choir” or convincing those who are already believers. Notwithstanding, I believe there is value in refreshing what we believe. I hope you will enjoy this issue and that it will encourage you to send us your stories for future editions. Since we are all leaders, I know we all have a story to tell. I am also pleased to extend an invitation for you to join us in Birmingham Alabama for our 75th Grand Conclave. The Grand Conclave promises to enlighten, empower, and energize your commitment to the organization. We hope to paint the city of Birmingham and the state of Alabama in a sea of purple and gold. Yours in Friendship and Fraternity, Warren G. Lee, Jr. 38th Grand Basileus Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. 5 Omega’s Clarion Call From The Desk Of The Managing Editor: Brother Troy Moore Omega’s Clarion Call Editorial Board Policies Omega’s Clarion Call is one of three official publications of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Like its predecessor, this publication is charged with providing a quality magazine which is representative of the high standards of the organization and contains substantive and informative materials for its readers. Editorial Board Policies And Procedures All chapter articles must be submitted directly to the District Director of Public Relations before the deadline dates. This will allow for editing by the District Director of Public Relations prior to submission to the International Editor. All articles will be submitted by the DDPR’s by email only to [email protected]. A maximum of three articles per chapter will be allowed per publication / edition. All articles must be reviewed for grammatical perfection, correct spelling, and proper tense and syntax. They must also be reviewed for acceptable composition and form, relevance and journalistic style. The articles should address who, what, when, where, and how. They should not exceed one page and they should be single spaced only. Photos should have captions which will properly identify the persons and the event or they will not be used. The Omega’s Clarion Call Editorial Board reserves the right to reject any article or to make any editorial changes deemed appropriate. OCC Delivery In order to insure that a copy of OCC is received, Brothers must have a deliverable address. The “My Page” section of the Fratenity’s official website will allow an instant update of your address. Go on line to www.oppf.org to make any needed changes. Brothers should also check with their local post offices to verify if there are any pending address forwarding requests, mail holding requests or address change requests on file. Brother Troy Moore Managing Editor of Omega’s Clarion Call Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. 3951 Snapfinger Parkway Decatur, GA 30035 6 Omega Partners The Friendship Foundation: The Friendship Foundation Inc. (FFI) professionally manages Omega World Center. The staff of property management professionals has been recognized for its outstanding customer service. The facilities are available for Awards Ceremonies, Business Meetings, Classes, Seminars & Forums and Weddings & Receptions. Omega Life Membership Foundation, Inc.: The Omega Life Membership Foundation, Inc. was established in 1984. It was chartered to aid organizations involved in charitable, educational, scholastic and scientific pursuits. It has supported a number of Uplift and Scholastic projects and initiatives started and endorsed by Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Omega Charities, Inc.: Omega Charities, Inc. is a non-profit organization that provides educational and youth training for young men and community services for the needy throughout the United States. Omega Development Corporation: The preferred usage of the Omega Development Corporation is to be Omega’s primary non-profit entity that partners with other various organizations for the purposes providing good will to humanity. Omega Federal Credit Union: With the potential to have more than 100,000 members, Omega Federal Credit Union has opened many financial avenues for the Fraternity’s members, families and employees. Working with an excellent team of dedicated Board Members and Committees, we now have a competitive, financially secure credit union. Brothers are encouraged to join, save, borrow and take advantage of all the services available. Omega Federal Credit Union will continue to increase its services and welcomes new ideas, input and suggestions to make this credit union the finest in the world at servicing the needs of the Brotherhood. Omega’s Clarion Call Educating The Black American The Brown vs. Board of Education decision was the catalyst that sparked the dawn of modern Black education. At the death of Chief Justice Fred Vinson, Brother Troy Moore the newly appointed Chief Justice, Earl Warren, stated in a landmark decision, that “We conclude, unanimously, in the field of public education the doctrine of separate but equal has no place. Separate educational facilities are inherently unequal”. Since the Brown decision, education for Blacks in America has undergone a dramatic metamorphosis. The Negro Almanac is a reference work on the BlackAmerican. The following statistics have been taken from The Negro Almanac: It states, in 1954, less than 1% of Black students in the South attended schools with White children. By 1968, 20% of Black students in the South attended schools that were more than 50% White, and by 1978, 44% did so. Nationally, in 1978, 38% of Black students were in schools that contained more than 50% of Whites in the student body. These figures underscore two points: desegregation has progressed, and a great deal more needs to be achieved. Not only has desegregation increased over the past three decades, it also has had a positive effect on Black students. Some of the effects are: (1) Academic achievement rose as the Black student learned more. (2) Black aspirations, already high, were positively affected; self-esteem rose; and self-acceptance as a Black American grew. (3) Tolerance, respect, and occasional friendships were the chief characteristics of student and teacher relations in desegregated schools. (4) Virtually none of the negative predictions by segregationists - lower achievement, aggravated selfconcepts of Black children, and growing disorder in desegregated schools - found support in the studies of actual desegregation. The factors that have come about through desegregation have had a profound effect on the education of Black students. From 1960 to 1997, the proportion of Black students receiving a high school diploma has more than tripled for Black females, from 21.8% to 76%, and more than quadrupled for Black males, 18.2% to more than 73%. And, the same holds true for Black students receiving a four year college degree, where for females it has more than quadrupled, 3.3% to almost 14%, and for males the same, going from 2.8% to 12.5%. Our people no longer live in a one dimensional world of education controlled by the ill-intentions of others. If one chooses, he has access to education from the elementary to secondary level without the expectation of fear or intimidation. We are no longer limited to and persecuted by the confines of a separate and allegedly equal education system. Black Americans have evolved to a level of respectability in education that is envied by today’s post modern world. Black America, of course, continues to have education issues that range from lack of access to apathy. In light of the issues and truths that prevail, countless efforts are realized daily within the Black community by individuals who have taken a stand in the pursuit of the educational welfare of young Black America. We have been fortunate to have Brothers in Omega who have also dedicated their lives to the cause of Educating The Black American. 7 C O V E STORY Brother Willie Frank Hinchen Educator And An Omega Man Of Our Time Omega’s Clarion Call Brother Willie Frank Hinchen served as an educator in the Wilmer-Hutchins Independent School District in Wilmer, TX at Wilmer-Hutchins High School for 30 years before his retirement in May of 2004. As an educator with the School District, he was cast in a myriad of roles with responsibilities uncommon to his contemporaries. As a staff member of Wilmer Hutchins High School, he taught a number of subjects to include English and Social Studies as well as serving in the position of Varsity Coach of various high school level sports. Recognizing Brother Hinchen’s enthusiasm, innovativeness, positive attitude and love for teaching and his students, the Wilmer-Hutchins Independent School District leadership employed him as Director of Student Services at Wilmer-Hutchins High School, where he served for the last seven years of his career. His talents as an educator shined brightest in this position, as his charge was to directly work with students and parents in navigating through social issues and concerns to include healthy and positive problem solving. Brother Hinchen’s approach to conflict management and resolution of disciplinary issues proved to be a corner stone asset to the School District and the greatest of his talents as an administrator. those same footsteps NBA Slam Dunk champion, Spud Webb is a WHHS graduate. Wilmer-Hutchins High School’s most famous successful graduate is Brother State Senator, Royce West, Esq. Brother Hinchen remains a member of the Association of Teachers and Professional Educators (ATPE) of which he organized the local Wilmer-Hutchins ISD chapter. He also remains a member of the Texas High School Coaches Association. One of the greatest highlights of his career as an educator was being selected as the keynote speaker of the graduating class of Kennedy Junior High-School. Brother Hinchen is a recipient of the James Gates Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award from the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce. He has been active in education related professional organizations, school related community groups and a sponsor for many school activities along with college visits to his students of which 100 have received degrees from Jarvis Christian College. Brother Hinchen meshed exceptionally well with his peers, having presented a frank and outgoing persona that proved reassuring and trustworthy to those with whom he worked and served in the School District. With universally recognized verbal skills and a rich subject matter knowledge base, his colleagues and superiors described him as having a bona-fide creative spirit with unmatched imagination that allowed him to easily make classroom discussion and instruction vivid and meaningful to students and, occasionally, fellow teachers. His physical energy and drive to do a good job, however demanding, remains legendary at Wilmer-Hutchins High School. A native of Carthage, TX and the sixth of seven children, Brother Hinchen is a 1971 graduate of Carthage High School and a 1975 graduate of Jarvis Christian College in Hawkins, TX. There he received a Bachelor of Science Degree in English and Social Studies. He has since been named as a Jarvis Christian College Distinguished Alumni and Heritage Award Winner. Brother Hinchen shares a rare distinction with his siblings. All seven Hinchen siblings are graduates of Jarvis Christian College. He served as the Wilmer-Hutchins High School Coordinator of its annual Career Day. Brother Hinchen described this program as his Baby. The Program was created to show students and parents that former Wilmer-Hutchins High School students have proven themselves in the corporate world and that any future Wilmer-Hutchins High School graduate could walk in Brother Hinchen and his loving wife, Doris, have celebrated nearly 20 years of life together. Doris is a Grambling State University alumnus and is a native of Ringgold, Louisiana. They have four adult children to include Shawnone, Kevan, Chandra, Kimberly and son-in-law, Galen Henry. They have three grand children to include Alexander, Messiah and Addisyn as well 9 Omega’s Clarion Call Brother Hinchen was elected as Ninth District Representative at the District Meeting in Houston, TX in 2007. He is currently serving a second term as District Representative for the 2008-09 fiscal year after having been re-elected at the District Meeting in San Antonio, TX. He has a plethora of credentials in Omega to include: *Immediate Past Ninth District First Vice District Representative *Life Member #2883 *2004 International Omega Man of the Year *Meritorious Service Award, 9th District *Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Scroll of Honor Brother Willie Frank Hinchen and his wife, Doris as the family pet, a two-year-old miniature schnauzer named Michelle. He and his wife, Doris, are faithful members of Antioch Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church in Dallas, TX, where Brother Hinchen works with Greek Ministry and the Youth Ministry. He is also a member of the North Texas Tri-Cities Branch of the NAACP. Brother Hinchen was initiated into Omega in the spring of 1972 by way of Phi Beta Chapter at Jarvis Christian College. Presently, he is a member of Theta Alpha Chapter in Dallas, TX and is a Life Member of Omega, OLMF # 2863. During his tenure with Theta Alpha Chapter, he has served in the capacity of Reclamation and Retention Chairman, Fan Drive Chairman and on various other committees. He was voted Omega Man of the Year in Phi Beta Chapter and Theta Alpha Chapter as well as receiving the Basileus Award in both chapters. In the year 2004, he was named International Omega Man of the Year. One of Brother Hinchen’s most profound moments in Omega was being present to see his legacy enter into the folds of Omega by way of his very own birth chapter, Phi Beta Chapter. 10 *US Hammond Service Award, Theta Alpha Chapter *Past Regional Director of OLMF-Region Nine *Omega Life Membership Foundation *Past chairman, International Retention Committee *East Texas Regional Intake Chairman *East Texas Area State Representative *Four time-Past President of the Lone Star State Ques Organization Brother Hinchen’s extraordinary success as an educator was the result of an uncommon persona who commanded respect from his students and his colleagues not by Mercenary means, but with enthusiasm, an innovative spirit and a genuine commitment to students of WilmerHutchins High School. Now that he has retired from the Wilmer-Hutchins Independent School District, he has begun to focus his efforts in service to Omega. He supports the Grand Basileus’ theme of Three Looks One Focus: Family, Friendship & Fraternity and firmly believes that if Omega is to continuously make a difference in the lives of Black People, it is imperative that the Fraternity selects leaders who are genuinely committed to the concept of building a nation within a nation. Omega’s Clarion Call Interview With The 2nd Vice Grand Basileus, Brother Brian S. Gundy By Brother Troy Moore Section 3 of the Constitution and By Laws of Omega documents the purpose and directives of the office of 2nd Vice Grand Basileus. This Omega man must be an undergraduate at the time of his election and is deemed the third in line of leadership of the Fraternity. The following are the mandated directives for the office of 2nd Vice Grand Basileus: (a) Have general supervision over the Undergraduate Chapters and help direct their activities; (b) Perform such other duties as are assigned to him by the Grand Basileus or the Supreme Council; (c) Monitor and report the state of undergraduate members on a regular basis and provide such recommendations as are appropriate for corrective actions and enhancement activities of the undergraduate members; (d) Chair the Undergraduate Council, composed of the undergraduatemembers of the Supreme Council and each Second Vice District Representative; and (e) Serve as an ex-officio member of all standing committees to provide advice and counsel regarding undergraduate issues and concerns. I had the opportunity to interview Brother Gundy to get his take on what is required of the 2nd Vice Grand Basileus. He was also generous in discussing his background as well as other issues that concern the undergraduate Brothers of Omega. Clarion and Call: Omega has members in every state in the Nation and all over the world. Brother Gundy, what town and state are you from and what high school did you attend? Brother Gundy: I was originally born in Monroe, Louisiana but I moved to Dallas, Texas in the 2nd grade and lived there ever since. I graduated from Lake Highlands High School in North Dallas where I participated in the band as the first Black male Drum Major, Captain of the Step Team, Younglife (Christian Outreach Organization) participant and the Church Youth Choir. Clarion and Call: You attended Grambling State University, in Grambling, LA. What organizations were you affiliated with while at GSU and what years did you attend the University? Brother Gundy: I pledged my allegiance to Omega in the spring of 2003. I was involved in the World Famous Grambling State University Tiger Marching Band as Freshman of the year, Saxophone Section Leader, Drum Major and Student Director. I was also involved in Sweet Sexy Saxes (GSU Band Saxophone Section), Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity as President of the spring 2002 pledge class, corresponding Secretary and Vice President for Membership Education and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. as Gamma Gamma Chapter Chaplain and Social Action Chair (National Undergraduate Social Action Chapter of the Year). Clarion and Call: Many, over the years, have been inspired to pledge Omega for an infinite number of reasons. Who and /or what inspired you to pursue Omega? Brother Gundy: My mother is a die-hard member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and being that my father was not always able to be around; my mother saw a need to surround me with good men. At the top of her list were men of Omega. She made sure that I was involved in programs such as Alpha Iota Iota Chapter’s Talent Hunt, (Plano, TX) where I had an opportunity to see Brothers in action setting a good example for me. In addition to that, at my church in Dallas, North Dallas Community Bible Fellowship, many men of Omega were very influential. Brother Ron Silas (Alpha Iota Iota Chapter), Brother Leslie Smith, our pastor who was initiated by way of Gamma Gamma Chapter at Grambling College and Brother Satisfield, among many others. Finally, the Brothers of Gamma Gamma Chapter, during 11 Omega’s Clarion Call my freshman year and even now, were the cream of the crop on Grambling’s campus and everybody, along with myself, aspired to be like them as well as one of them. Clarion and Call: There has been a number of 2nd Vice Grand Basilei before you. When did you become interested in pursuing this elected position and how did you begin your journey? Brother Gundy: As a neophyte, I did not see the potential that some of my chapter prophytes saw in me, but as I traveled and began to truly experience Omega, it truly helped me learn who I was and what type of organization I had become a part of. In 2004, I had an opportunity to attend the Undergraduate Caucus of the Grand Conclave. It was there, I first met Brother Mo Bamiduro, who was 2nd Vice Grand Basileus at the time. This Brother was really on top of his game as the chair of that meeting. He only tolerated excellence from the Brothers both undergraduate and graduate alike in and out of meeting settings. Seeing an undergraduate Brother controlling such an environment professionally had such a positive impact on me and inspired me to be that type of leader in the Fraternity as well. In fact, I was nominated for a position at that meeting and declined the nomination because I felt that my responsibilities in the band at Grambling State University were too great. However, I told myself that if I ever got another opportunity that I would run for 2nd Vice Grand Basileus. It just so happened that I had one conclave left before I graduated. I ran and I won! their potential ability to gain power, acquire the ability to shine as individuals, and combat those things in Omega that should not be in order to keep the vision that God himself blessed our Founders with. Clarion and Call: Like all positions of leadership in the Fraternity, the 2nd Vice Grand Basileus can also find himself spinning his wheels. What would you consider a goal that you were unable to accomplish? Clarion and Call: The position of 2nd Vice Grand Basileus is challenging, demanding and requires a high degree of political and academic skill. Much is to be accomplished during the tenure of the 2nd Vice Grand Basileus. What do you feel has been your greatest accomplishment during your tenure as such? Brother Gundy: One goal that I feel we were unable to accomplish was bridging the gap between the youth and seasoned Brothers of the Fraternity in totality. I think in this regard during this tenure, we have made great strides towards this goal. However, some Brothers do not realize the gap is smaller than we think. When the youth decide to collectively take the initiative to reach out to all seasoned Brothers they meet and likewise, the seasoned Brothers can then collectively take every young Brother they see and inquire about their aspirations and truly execute uplift without interest in any political gain. If this is done, the gap will close a lot sooner and a lot faster. Brother Gundy: During my tenure, I feel our greatest accomplishment has been educating and empowering the undergraduates of the Fraternity with knowledge that some do not want them to have. Giving them confidence and hope that they too can carry themselves in such a way that exudes courage, intelligence, humility, swag, and a willingness to capitalize on their personal development in Omega and as men in general. Knowledge is power and there are those who do not wish for the undergraduates to have that knowledge because they fear Clarion and Call: The 2008 Undergraduate Summit proved to be a well-organized and well-executed tour de force. You presented to the Brotherhood a 2nd Vice Grand Basileus who was poised, confident and knowledgeable of the subject matter. Delegation of authority and speaking assignments were also successfully executed. A strong number of undergraduate Brother Representatives attended as is required. If you were able to personally discuss and summarize the 2008 Undergraduate Summit with Brothers who could not or did not attend, 12 Omega’s Clarion Call what would they hear? Brother Gundy: They would hear that there is a reckoning in Omega. Nothing new, just a mental pilgrimage for all Brothers back to the basic tenants of which this Fraternity was founded upon because we must all recognize that a great number of Brothers have gone astray from these. All Brothers have a choice, whether to go down the wide and easy road of the owt-rageous bruh or down the narrow and challenging road of the tried and true owt-standing Omega Man who truly thinks diligently, walks uprightly, and acts nobly and always values discretion…TRULY! They would hear about the problems that are detrimental to the well-being of undergraduate life in Omega and the challenges associated with fixing them. Finally, they would also hear the knowledge that it takes to become a successful and wealthy educated Black man who steadfastly indulges himself in his own personal development so that he may help others do the same. That is what they would hear. Clarion and Call: By the time the 2008 Grand Conclave arrives, you would have served your term as 2nd Vice Grand Basileus. It is said that history will determine the greatness or shortcomings of a leader. Do you feel that you were successful as 2nd Vice Grand Basileus? If so or not, what advice would you give to the undergraduate Brother who is scheduled to follow in your footsteps? Brother Gundy: I do feel that I was successful as 2nd Vice Grand Basileus and please understand the three Undergraduate Representatives to the Supreme Council are a part of the office of 2nd Vice Grand Basileus. I must definitely give credit to mine, Brother Ben Hart, Brother Jamar Mckoy and Brother Joseph Bowers. These Brothers are outstanding! In that right, I do feel that we were successful as 2nd Vice Grand Basileus. The advice I would give to the undergraduate Brother who is scheduled to follow in my footsteps would be to first always pray and ask God to guide him and his decisions in all that he is to do. He should listen more than he speaks. When he speaks, he should know what he’s talking about. When he speaks, he should do so as eloquently as possible and ALWAYS PAY ATTENTION! He should engage his people and give them credit for what they do. He should not always look for the spot- light because when things go wrong, they will extend the same courtesy to him. I would also say to him to have a vision and clearly explain it to the masses and he should be prepared to explain how he expects to get them there. This Brother should not just let it be said that he is the third man in charge of the Fraternity. The 2nd Vice Grand Basileus should actually be that man and should carry himself as such with a large amount of SWAGGER and CONFIDENCE. Whatever it is he wants those under him to do, he should make sure he is prepared to do the same for the Grand Basileus because what goes around comes around. If he wants his people to ride with him, he should ride with them (TEAM). Lead by example. Walk the walk and talk the talk because that is the only way to truly be effective. The next 2nd Vice Grand Basileus should not let anybody push him around; however, he should maintain a certain amount of humility. Authority should only be flexed when necessary! The 2nd Vice Grand Basileus should be confident in everything he does, even when he messes up. In addition, when he messes up, he should not be afraid to admit that he was wrong! He should not let politics or any one Brother or set of Brothers keep him from saying the TRUTH, no matter how bad it hurts them or him. He should not make decisions for the sake of politics, but should make decisions for what is in the best interest of the Fraternity at that time and not ten or twenty years ago. Finally, I would tell that Brother to NEVER LET THEM SEE YOU SWEAT! 13 2008 Undergraduate Summit Atlanta, Georgia Brothers Building Bridges To The Future 2008 Undergraduate Summit Omega’s Clarion Call 2008 Undergraduate Summit In Atlanta, Georgia Omega held its 10th Annual Undergraduate Summit in Atlanta, Georgia from 01-23-08 to 01-27-08. The Undergraduate Summit is held each year to address the concerns of undergraduate Brothers as well as how those concerns relate to graduate Brothers. The Summit is organized in the form of Plenary Sessions and a number of Advisory and Breakout Sessions that discuss specific issues and topics that are of concern to the undergraduate Brotherhood. Plenary Session I Omega’s Book Collage Omega’s Director of Communications, Brother Charles Johnson, Jr, officially opened the Summit with comments and introductions by 38th Grand Basileus, Brother Warren G. Lee, Jr. and 2nd Vice Grand Basileus, Brother Brian S. Gundy, conducted the Formal Ritualistic Opening and Roll Call. Brother Charles Johnson, Jr. Omega’s Director Of Communications Brother Charles Johnson, Jr. presented the 2008 Undergraduate Summit Book Collage. The Review included the following books: Brother Warren G. Lee, Jr., 38th Grand Basileus Brother Brian S. Gundy, 2nd Vice Grand Basileus Leadership & Self-Deception Subject Matter & Discussion: Ignoring truth – Refusing to recognize the truth, usually because to do so would be painful or difficult. Tending to glorify self – cherishing self – indulgent beliefs about one. Self-Betrayal – An act contrary to what one feels he should do for another. When one betrays himself, he begins to see the world in a way that justifies his self-betrayal. When we see a self – justifying world, our view of reality becomes distorted. The Five Dysfunctions Of A Team Subject Matter & Discussion: What behaviors must one change or develop? What action will he take to grow? There are 2008 Undergraduate Summit 15 Omega’s Clarion Call five factors to consider. They are Inattention to Results, Avoidance of Accountability, Lack of Commitment, Fear of Conflict and Lack of Trust. In overcoming the five dysfunctions of Team, one must Increase Trust focusing his time and energy on things that matter, not politics. One must Engage in Conflict, putting critical topics on the table for discussion and minimize politics. Make a Commitment to move forward without hesitation. Hold One Another Accountable by publicly declaring what is needed to succeed, who needs to deliver what and how everyone must behave to succeed. One should Focus on Results. Reward only those behaviors and actions that contribute to results. PowerNomics Subject Matter & Discussion: There are Three Major Impediments To Black Competitiveness. One should note Maldistribution of wealth and resource power. He should also be mindful of Inappropriate behavior patterns as well as a Lack of a national plan for empowerment. There are Keys To Empowerment. They are An Empowerment Culture, A Group Vision and Ethno-Aggregation & Vertical Integration. Methodology: Education, Strategic Planning and Group Economics. Resources: Manpower, Capital and Land. The Dream Giver Subject Matter & Discussion: One must recognize his calling and depart from his comfort zone. He must enter the boarder land of doubt and fear where his faith will be tested. His surrender and consecration to GOD is paramount. He should also resolute himself to the notion that Goliath has a history of being an obstacle on the journey to the Promised Land. 2008 Undergraduate Summit Outcomes, Methodology along with a few Key Questions to included: How We Gonna Get There?, Do you have a personal mission statement?, Is your chapter a Learning Organization? and How do We Do it? Brother Dr. Vroman Wright Strategic Planning is Key and the chapter must consider its Strengths & Weaknesses. It must prepare itself for any Opportunities & threats. Taking A Problem Solving Approach to any setback, distraction obstacle is paramount. Brother Dr. Wright summarized by stating a solution/plan is strategic if it uses strengths to take advantage of opportunities, while eliminating weaknesses to ward off threats. Former Grand Basilei Round Table Discussion Plenary Session II Chapter Strategic Planning Brother Dr. Vroman Wright conducted a Strategic Planning For Students seminar that focused on a number of directives that were designed to aid the undergraduate chapter in its quest to become successful. Directives included the Relevance Of Strategic Plans, Expected 16 35th Grand Basileus, Brother Dorsey C. Miller answers questions during the roundtable discussion 2008 Undergraduate Summit 2008 Undergraduate Summit Omega’s Clarion Call Plenary Session III Prayer and Spirituality Grand Basilei enters the Plenary Session Brother Quincy Shannon speaks during the Session 36th Grand Basileus, Brother Lloyd Jordan, Esq. The 2008 Undergraduate Summit featured a Grand Basilei round table discussion that included 28th Grand Basileus, Brother James S. Avery, 30th Grand Basileus, Brother Dr. Edward J. Braynon, Jr., 31st Grand Basileus, Brother Burnel E. Coulon, 33rd Grand Basileus, Brother Moses C. Norman, Sr., 35th Grand Basileus, Brother Dorsey C. Miller, Jr., 36th Grand Basileus, Brother Lloyd Jordon, Esq., 37th Grand Basileus, Brother George H. Grace and 38th Grand Basileus, Brother Warren G. Lee, Jr. The Grand Basilei discussed issues that affect the Fraternity and their possible solutions. They also commented on Omega’s history along with its present and future. Questions were fielded from the floor in the spirit of Brotherly conversation, Friendship and Fraternity. Brother Archange Antoine speaks during Session The third Plenary Session began with a well presented Prayer and Spirituality Session that included power point presentations from Brother Quincy Shannon and Brother Archange Antoine. The session was an enlightenment of where the minds, hearts and souls of the Brotherhood should be in the spirit of Life, Love and Justice. State of the Undergraduates Address Second Vice Grand Basileus, Brother Brian S. Gundy, gave the 2008 State of the Undergraduates Address. The Summit’s theme was Undergraduate Preparation for Domination, Faith, Friends and Fidelity. 2008 Undergraduate Summit 17 Omega’s Clarion Call 2008 Undergraduate Summit mittee and District with undergraduates is represented. The Office of Undergraduate Development has taken on a new and different responsibility. Its new vision is an efficient mega support base for all undergraduate Brothers in Omega. Two independent contracted employees at IHQ have replaced the O.U.D. staff member. It should be noted that the salary designated for the previous staff member was divided in half for the two independent contractors who are 2nd Vice Grand Basileus, Brother Brian S. Gundy and Brother Jamar McKoy. Brother Brian S. Gundy delivers the State of the Undergraduates Address Brother Gundy began the address with an explanation of what exactly should be dominated. He expressed that it is very important that we as an organization place ourselves in a position of visible leadership of our people. We should promote good, positive and upright Christian leadership guided intricately by God our Father. The two Undergraduate Consults have been charged with traveling to every undergraduate chapter in Omega in order to build and maintain positive partnerships with IHQ. This includes problem solving, critical thinking and providing solutions. The duo is also charged with meeting and / or communicating with graduate chapters to ensure that there is open communication that allows mentoring and support of undergraduate chapters to take its natural course. In order that undergraduate and graduate Brothers better understand the undergraduate leadership structure, Brother Gundy discussed the Functions of the Undergraduate Administration. It has been established that the Undergraduate Administration is a subordinate Administration of the Fraternity. The Undergraduate Administration is Constitutional and functions with the 2nd Vice Grand Basileus as Chair. In line after the 2nd Vice Grand Basileus are three Undergraduate Representatives to the Supreme Council. In line after each Undergraduate Representative are 2nd Vice District Representatives for a total of 12. The Undergraduate Administration also serves as a functioning chapter of the Fraternity. The chapter’s leadership structure consists of a Basileus, Vice Basileus, Editor to All Fraternal Publications, Keeper of Finance and chapter members that include the Fraternity’s 2nd Vice District Representatives. Within the infrastructure of the chapter, every International Com- 18 Undergraduate Brothers attending Plenary Session III Chapter Advisor Brother Curtis Baylor of George Mason University, Washington, D.C. serves as Chairman of the Fraternity’s Chapter Advisors and is anticipated to travel and conduct workshops throughout the Fraternity. The goal of the Chapter Advisor Chair is to establish a new level of accountability for chapter advisors. This includes a 2008 Undergraduate Summit 2008 Undergraduate Summit Chapter Advisor Certification Program. A mandatory annual meeting of all undergraduate chapter advisors is now required. Any chapter advisors who chose not to attend will be recommended for replacement. Undergraduate Liaison Brother Lee Willis of Houston, TX is the Undergraduate Liaison and a former 2nd Vice Grand Basileus. His roll is to communicate plans, goals, vision, and intentions to the graduate constituency of Omega. He is anticipated to travel to National Undergraduate Events and will have a platform at National and District Fraternity events from which to disseminate this information. Omega’s Clarion Call Undergraduate Public Enemy #2 Ill educated-knowledgeable, uninvolved undergraduate advisors who lack the ability and the time to bond and mentor undergraduate Brothers in a correct and positive way. Undergraduate Public Enemy #3 Undergraduate Brothers and Brothers in general who do not want anything better for themselves or the Fraternity. Undergraduate Public Enemy #4 Seasoned Brothers in the Fraternity who mentally do not want undergraduates to prosper. Where Is The Uplift? Omega has set forth a Relevancy Initiative to build good relationships, adhere to compliance, engage in mentorship, and pursue education and empowerment. The Undergraduate Development Center hopes to see all Brothers as agents of change. Ronald McNair Undergraduate Luncheon Undergraduate Brothers attending the State of the Undergraduates Address The Undergraduate Development Center The Undergraduate Development Center seeks to change the paradigm of Omega. It seeks to identify problems and fix them as well as attempting to change the Fraternity’s thinking in order to save the future of the Fraternity. The Center has identified at least four harmful Public Enemies of undergraduate life in Omega: Undergraduate Public Enemy #1 Older, un-financial prophytes who remain out of touch with the current direction of the Fraternity and continue to hang out with their undergraduate neophytes. 35th Grand Basileus, Brother Dorsey C. Miller, Jr. 35th Grand Basileus, Brother Dorsey C. Miller, Jr. served as the keynote speaker at the 2008 Ronald McNair Undergraduate Luncheon. Brother Miller, Jr. did prepare a speech, but delivered an unforgettable impromptu speech about the state of Omega as well as the state of our Country. 2008 Undergraduate Summit 19 Omega’s Clarion Call Brothers attending Undergraduate Luncheon 2008 Undergraduate Summit Brothers attending Breakout Session The Effective Career Strategies Breakout Session was conducted by Brother Tim White who discussed the importance preparing one’s self for entry into the working world. This included an overview of effective resume’ building that sells the man as well as what he has accomplished. Breakout Session Effective Chapter Budgeting Brothers attentive to the Keynote Speaker Plenary Session IV Breakout Session Effective Career Strategies Brother Dr. Vroman Wright Brother Tim White 20 Brother Dr. Vroman Wright and 38th Grand Basileus, Brother Warren G. Lee, Jr. conducted a session on Effective Chapter Budgeting. The purpose of the session was to provide an overview of the budget process and share some experience based guidelines on how to budget to ensure that an undergraduate chapter is successful in its programs and activities. 2008 Undergraduate Summit 2008 Undergraduate Summit 38th Grand Basileus, Brother Warren G. Lee, Jr. Omega’s Clarion Call Brothers attending the Educational and Financial Growth Session 37th Grand Basileus, Brother George H. Grace along with Brother Tony Grant, Grand Keeper of Finance, Brother Antonio F. Knox and Brother James Means, conducted the Educational and Financial Growth Breakout Session. The Session’s purpose was to convey to undergraduate Brothers the importance of one’s educational and financial status as he presents himself to the post-collegiate corporate world. Brothers attending the Chapter Budgeting Session Breakout Sessions Educational and Financial Growth 37th Grand Basileus, Brother George H. Grace Managing one’s credit early could be the key to financial and career success. This is especially true in a day and age where employers and insurance companies assess an applicant’s suitability by his credit score. An undergraduate Brother can begin to manage his credit, which usually begins with student loans, credit cards and other credit accounts, by securing a copy of his credit profile from the major credit reporting agencies. Once a credit report is in hand, the process of identifying and correcting any negative issues or mistakes can begin. One of the most popular sites to secure one’s credit profile and score is FreeCreditReport. com. The Brothers conducting the Session stressed that how an undergraduate Brother handles his credit worthiness will set the pace for his future ability to find employment, seek an apartment lease, car loan, home mortgage, credit cards and other credit necessities. 2008 Undergraduate Summit 21 Omega’s Clarion Call Properly managing one’s finances and credit can lead to positive financial growth for a lifetime. 2008 Undergraduate Summit Lock Box Luncheon Grand Keeper of Records and Seal, Brother Charlie Bruce Brother Tony Grant Plenary Session V Overview of the New Lampodas Club Grand Keeper of Records and Seal, Brother Charles A. Bruce hosted the Lock Box Luncheon, which focused on the Lock Box and the My Page user operations. The session served as an orientation on how to effectively and productively use the on line technology of the Fraternity. The Lock Box is a web based online payment forms system for processing dues and non-dues related payments. Payments can be made online or mailed to the bank’s lock box address for manual processing. My Page is an online self-administrative database for updating a Brother’s address, contact telephone numbers, email address and photos. Upon login, a Brother can view, edit and print information. A Brother can also update records within his District, depending on his position within his chapter. Brother Keith Neal, International Lampodas Club Chairman Brother Keith Neal, along with Brother Joe Williams and 35th Grand Basileus, Brother Dorsey C. Miller, Jr. conducted an overview of the New Lampodas Club. Brother Neal led the discussion stressing the success of a number of chapters who were presented with the opportunity to engage in the newly proposed process. A number of chapters successfully completed the process and were present during the presentation. 22 Brothers attending the Lock Box Luncheon 2008 Undergraduate Summit 2008 Undergraduate Summit Omega’s Clarion Call Chapter Advisor’s Panel Discussion Grand Basileus Breakfast Brother Charles Johnson, Jr., Communications Director of Omega 38th Grand Basileus, Brother Warren G. Lee, Jr. A Chapter Advisor’s Panel Discussion was conducted during the 2008 Undergraduate Summit and was moderated by Brother Charles Johnson, Jr., Director of Communications for Omega. Presenters included Brothers Curtis Baylor, Russell Leday, Newton Jackson and Jim Harper. The purpose of the session was to discuss the state of the Fraternity’s chapter advisors and explore & implement ways to improve relationships with undergraduate Brothers. An Address To The Body spearheaded the formal closing of the 2008 Undergraduate Summit on Sunday morning by 38th Grand Basileus, Warren G. Lee. 31st Grand Basileus, Brother Burnel E. Coulon, one of a number of guest speakers Brothers attending the Chapter Advisor’s Panel Discussion 2008 Undergraduate Summit 23 Friendship Is Essential To The Soul Making A Difference In The Lives Of Black People Three Looks - One Focus - Family, Friendship & Fraternity Brothers Of Omega Building Bridges To The Future Education, on the other hand, means emancipation. It means light and liberty. It means the uplifting of the soul of man into the glorious light of truth, the light by which men can only be made free. To deny education to any people is one of the greatest crimes against human nature. Frederick Douglass Omega’s Clarion Call Educators Nu Omicron Brothers By Brother Dr. James Bethea Educators year 2001, he became an assistant principal at M.S. 232 in the Bronx, NY where he currently holds this post. Brother Hooks believes educators should instill core values in students such as responsibility, honesty, trust, determination, perseverance and respect for self and others. He mentioned his lifelong goal is to continue to serve as an educator, father and friend to his students. Brother William Edward Cooper was initiated into the Gamma Epsilon Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. in the spring of 1993. He graduated from Hampton University with a BA in Political Science in May of 1994. Brothers of Nu Omicron Chapter Queens, NY- Nu Omicron Chapter has it’s roots in education dating back to the early 1970’s when the Nu Omicron Chapter Early Childhood Education Center (ECEC) was established. To date, the ECEC continues to be a shining jewel in Southeast Queens as hundreds of children receive educational services at the ECEC. The ECEC’s illustrious status can be partly attributed by the hard of work of the ECEC Board Members. The ECEC board is comprised exclusively of Nu Omicron Chapter Brothers in education whose primary role is to work in conjunction with the Director of the Center to ensure its constituents are receiving the most optimal level of quality. Most interesting about these Brothers, but not surprising, is while they work tirelessly in the overall sustainability of the ECEC, they also are making significant impact at their respective schools. Brother Anthony Hooks was initiated into Omega by way of Delta Gamma Chapter in the fall of 1982. He received a B.S. in Psychology from Fayetteville State University in 1983. Brother Hooks received a M.S. in Secondary Education from City College, NY in 1993. In 1996, he obtained an advanced certificate in Special Education. Brother Hooks began his educational career in 1991 working as a Special Education Teacher at I.S. 164 in Manhattan, NY and remained there for 10 years. In the 28 In October of 1994 he began his career in education as a 6th grade teacher at PS/IS 308, a K-8 school for the gifted and talented students in the BedfordStuyvesant area of Brooklyn, NY. In May of 2000, he received his M.S. in Instructional Technology from the New York Institute of Technology. In May of 2003, he received his MS in Educational Administration & Supervision from Fordham University. In 2003 he was selected to join the New York City Leadership Academy, an initiative undertaken by NYC Mayor Mike Bloomberg to recruit and train a new generation of school principals, from a pool of over 900 applicants. In 2004, he became the Principal of PS/IS 298. In 2006, he became the principal of MS 534 in the Bedford-Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn, NY. Brother Cooper believes that ALL children can learn and become productive citizens in an environment that is nurturing and dedicated to their advancement. Brother William Mingo, Jr. was initiated into Omega by way of Nu Omicron Chapter in the spring of 1998. Upon graduating from High School, Brother Mingo’s first tour in higher education was at Nassau Community College, where he graduated with an Associate Degree in Business Administration. He attended Delaware State University and received a B.S. Degree in Chemistry and subsequently received a M.A. in Chemistry Education from New York University. He later Educators Omega’s Clarion Call Educators received an Administrative Certificate from the College of Saint Rose. Brother Mingo Jr. has been in education for eleven years. His career in education began in the New York City Public Schools (Brooklyn, NY) as a Chemistry Teacher. He remained there for five years and decided to return home to his High School Alma Mater, Roosevelt High School. He worked at Roosevelt for five years, three years as a science teacher and two years as an assistant principal. Brother Mingo Jr. is currently working as an educator for the Sewanhaka School District. Brother Mingo Jr. believes education is one of the purest gifts that can ever be given. Every child has the ability to learn. Educators have the privilege of developing stimulating lessons that can intrigue the minds of our students. He goes on to say our children are unique in their personalities, cultural experiences and values. Different students prefer different learning environments and have different learning modalities. Therefore, educators must provide a variety of learning approaches so that these needs can be recognized and fostered. Understanding the different ways that children learn, interact with and process information, can help us modify the way we teach so that all students have the ability to compete and succeed in our global community. We must make a conscious effort to include guardians and our community in the education of our students. We must show an interest in every child and be aware that we have an obligation to inspire excellence without exception. Brother Edward Thomas was initiated into Omega by way of Nu Omicron Chapter in the spring of 1998. He graduated with a B.A. from Morehouse College in 1993 and a M.S. from Queens College. He will complete requirements for his Ed.D in Administration and Supervision at St. John’s University in August 2008. Brother Thomas began his educational journey in 1994 at Holy Cross High School, as a Social Studies teacher. Shortly thereafter he received opportunity to teach at Educators Elmont Memorial High School, a Nationally Recognized School of Excellence. For the last eleven years, Brother Thomas has served in various capacities at Elmont such as Class Advisor, Varsity Track Coach, Mentor, and Dean of Students. He’s currently the Assistant Principal at Elmont, where he’s held the post for the past 3 years. Additionally, Brother Thomas is the present Chairman of the Board for the ECEC where he manages a budget of three million dollars, supervises a staff of 20 employees, and ensures quality educational services are delivered for 100 pre-school students. Brother Thomas believes that ALL children can learn and educators must meet them where they are and help them rise to our expectations. Brother Rhamon Daley was initiated into Omega by way of Nu Omicron Chapter in the spring of 2001. He attended North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and received a B.S. in Elementary Education in 1999. Brother Daley has been in education for eight years. His career in education began in the New York City Public Schools working in grades 4-8 as a Mathematics Teacher. He’s currently an 8th grade Math Teacher at the Sojourner Truth School in Harlem, NY. Brother Daley believes that education is achieved, not received. Along with this way of thinking, the educator must possess a genuine concern for students, seek to establish a mutual respect with the student as well as continually adopt and implement new methods of instruction due to the constantly changing student population. Armed with the belief that education is achieved as well the aforementioned skills, the educator will be able to guide the student toward taking ownership of their academic achievement and instill a desire to do well. The Brothers of Nu Omicron Chapter not only salutes it members for their tremendous work, but all of the Omega Men who continue to fight the good fight in educating our most precious resource, our children! 29 Omega’s Clarion Call Brother Byron D. Orey Educator, Mentor, Researcher and Service Provider Brother Byron D’Andra Orey was born in the heart of the Mississippi Delta in Clarksdale, MS and subsequently grew up in Jackson, MS. He attended Mississippi Valley State University, where he pledged Omega in 1986. He currently serves as the Vice Basileus of Delta Gamma Gamma Chapter in Lincoln, NE. Brother Orey is currently a tenured Professor at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln where he teaches in the Department of Political Science. In the spirit of Lifting as we Climb, he has served as a mentor to both undergraduate and graduate students. As a C+ student at Mississippi Valley State, Brother Orey recalls his former Accounting Professor’s advice, Pay now, play later; or play now, pay later. He currently uses this motto when mentoring young students of color. Brother Orey has served as a mentor in the Ronald E. McNair summer program for undergraduates. He has served as a mentor with this program at both the University of Mississippi and at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. On one occasion, Brother Orey invited an undergraduate mentee, from a small Historically Black University, to publish as a co-author in a leading academic journal. That experience paid off, as that student has since received a Law degree and is now contemplating following Dr. Orey’s footsteps as a teacher at the university level. Recently, he served as the mentor for two young members of the Fraternity, both of whom have successfully completed their undergraduate degrees. One of them, Brother Potso Byndon, is in the final stages of completing his Master’s degree in History and will soon be entering a Ph.D. program. According to Brother Byndon, Dr. Orey’s teaching and research inspired me to further my education to the graduate level, where his methods have been essential to my educational process. From the research front, Brother Orey’s goal is to help end racial discrimination in all facets of life. He is currently working on two books, The Dangers of Black Conservatism and The Role of Race and Gender in State Legislatures. A portion of his work from The 30 Educators Dangers of Black Conservatism was recently featured in the Fall 2008 Oracle. In addition to his ongoing research, he has published over twenty articles in the area of race and politics. Broadly defined, his research focus is rooted in racial progress here in the United States and throughout the Diaspora. Such interests have led him abroad, where he has conducted research and/or lectured in Ghana, Africa, the West Indies and Oxford University in Oxford England. He has also lectured at New York University, Yale University, Emory University’s Law School, Williams College and Spelman College. During this historic Presidential-Election year, Brother Orey has been featured in articles appearing in Black Enterprise, on National Public Radio (NPR) and local television talk shows. In addition to his teaching and research, one of Brother Orey’s passions has been his community service. While in Mississippi he worked with grass root organizations to help mobilize support to defeat the Confederate flag in a state-wide referendum. Since coming to Nebraska, he has worked with Project Manhood to help mentor elementary-age males (primarily males of color) sponsored by Beta Upsilon. One of his most joyous efforts at service has been his effort to help free two political prisoners (as reported by the BBC and Amnesty International), Wopashitwe Mondo we Langa (formerly David Rice) and Ed Poindexter, both former Black Panthers. Brother Orey has honored the request of Mondo by delivering a series of lectures to prison inmates. Brother Charles W. Finley 2007 John M. Davis Achievement Recipient By Brother Fred E. Shuford, Jr. and Brother Charles W. Finley Brother Charles W. Finley, Basileus Emeritus of Upsilon Nu Chapter, Richmond, Virginia was recently selected as the winner of the John M. Davis Distinguished Educational Achievement Award for 2007 from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools-Council on School Accreditation and Improvement.(SACS CASI) in Virginia. The award was conferred at the SACS CASI Annual Conference in Orlando, FL in December. Educators Omega’s Clarion Call Educators Brother Finley retired from the Virginia Department of Education in 2004, where he served most recently as the Assistant Superintendent for Educational Accountability. He served the Department in various capacities for 28 years. For nine years, he served as the Department’s representative to the Virginia SACS CASI Council. After more than 34 years of work in public education, he retired from the Department of Education at the end of September of 2004 as one of the highest ranking and most respected officials in the department. He was only the fourth African-American to be appointed to a position of assistant superintendent in the history of the department. In retirement, he continues to work with the Department in a part-time capacity in the Office of Policy and Communications. He has been actively involved in civic affairs in the City of Richmond, VA and has held numerous offices as well as having been honored for his work. He was initiated into Omega by way of Nu Psi Chapter, Virginia State University in December of 1966 and is a charter member of Upsilon Nu Chapter. His fraternal awards and honors include District KRS, Area Supervisor, Undergraduate Liaison and Deputy District Marshall (Twice). Chapter offices held since 1971 include Dean of Pledgees, Keeper of Records and Seal, Assistant Keeper of Records and Seal, Basileus (10 times) and Basileus Emeritus. District Awards: District Graduate Basileus of the Year (1974, 1981), District Omega Man of the Year (1982), District Scroll of Honor (1986, 1997), District Certificate of Meritorious Service (1980), District Representative's Outstanding Service Certificates (1980, 1981, 1986), District Representative's Appreciation (Gary Clark, 1997), Certificate of Achievement for Service as Deputy District Marshall for the 71st Third District Conference (Robert H. Lewis, 2004), 40-Year Award (2006). Chapter Awards: Outstanding Service (2000), Innovator for Program Development (1992) Meritorious Service (1985), Omega Man of the Year (1981, 2005), Omega Man and Citizen of the Year (1973). Brother Finley attended Shenandoah Conservatory of Educators Music, Winchester, Virginia and received his bachelors and masters degrees from Virginia State University. In addition, he completed postgraduate study in school administration and supervision at Virginia Commonwealth University. He began his career in education teaching as an elementary school classroom teacher and later a band and choir director at the elementary, high school and college levels. Omega Leads The Way In Elementary Education By Brother Mandel E. Holland In metropolitan New York, educators often disagree about the best way to educate our children. However, they all seem to concur that there is a significant shortage of Black men in education, especially on the elementary/primary level. One Omega Man is not only an exception to the rule he is a standout. Bronx born Brother Corey W. Reynolds (2 BAA 99) was a Dean's List Honoree for six consecutive semesters at Seton Hall University before graduating in 1994 with a B.A. in English Literature. Upon graduation, he headed into corporate America as an Accounts Receivable Coordinator for a renowned Labor Law firm. However, his volunteer work with the local youth bureau became his passion. He found himself counting the hours until he could leave his lucrative day job to delve into the long and arduous work of mentoring the young people of White Plains, NY. After two years in corporate life, Brother Reynolds decided to dedicate more of his time and passion to the development of young lives. In 1996, Brother Reynolds returned to school after being awarded a full scholarship via the elite Intern Fellowship Program at Fordham University’s Graduate School of Education. He graduated with a M.S. Ed. in Elementary Education a year later and became the first Black male teacher at the Lee F. Jackson Elementary School in Greenburgh, New York; a school named after the grandson of Omega Icon, Brother Dr. Luther P. Jackson, former Virginia State University Professor, Civil Rights Leader, and the only man to serve on the Committees for both the Dreer and Gill history books. 31 Omega’s Clarion Call After a short time at Lee F. Jackson, Brother Reynolds was named First Grade Lead Teacher and TeacherMentor for Instruction and Classroom Management to new and seasoned staff. In these roles, he co-authored the first grade math curriculum and the New York State Standards-based math and reading assessments. Brother Reynolds returned to school and received a M.S. Ed. in School Administration and Supervision in 2005, graduating with a perfect 4.0 grade point average. Upon his principal’s retirement, Brother Reynolds was named Acting Principal at Lee F. Jackson by the Superintendent of Schools, and appointed Assistant to the District Math Coordinator. Soon after, Brother Reynolds was offered the Assistant Principal position at the Park Early Childhood Center, a National Blue Ribbon School, in Ossining, New York in July 2006. He is responsible for the supervision of 130 staff members, 700 students, and serves as the Summer School Principal. A man of Brother Reynolds’s youth and dedication is a shining example of a community caretaker. He has told me that, Teaching…is something that is greater than just a job; it is a calling. Brother Reynolds is ensuring the future of our people and our world and he does it with an exuberance that is both contagious and laudable. When asked if he loves his job, he smiled as he replied, do I love my job? No, I adore it! Brother Kirk Lattimore Louisville Kentucky Award Winning Educator By Brother Al Cornish Brother Michael Shoulders, Brother Kirk Lattimore, 2007 Winner, Bruce ThetaTheta Omega to R Bro. MichaelEssay Shoulders,Contest Bro. Kirk Lattimore, 2007 Essay Contest Herring, Winner, Bruce Herring, Omega Chapter Basileus Bro. Warren Shelton Warren Shelton Chapter Basileus Brother ro. Kirk Lattimore Louisville Kentucky Awarding Winning 32 Educator By Al Cornish, Chapter Editor Educators Louisville, KY - It almost seemed from the very beginning of his professional career that Brother Kirk Lattimore was destined for greatness. He has over the past six years received numerous awards and recognition for his accomplishments as an educator leading Crosby Middle School in the Jefferson County Public School System (JCPS) in Louisville, Kentucky. Just two short years after being promoted to Principal, in 2001, he received the very prestigious $25,000 National Milken Educator Award. The award provides public recognition and financial rewards to elementary and secondary schoolteachers, principals and other education professionals who exhibit and foster excellence in education. In 2002, he was awarded the JCPS Outstanding Middle School Principal of the Year Award. In 2004, he was named the Kentucky PTA Educator of the Year. In 2006, his school was the first JCPS school to be named a Kentucky School to Watch. His school was one of three in Kentucky and one of 27 nationally selected. His school also consistently meets and exceeds its accountability goals on the Kentucky Commonwealth Accountability Testing System. State Education Commissioner, Gene Wilhoit said Brother Lattimore was chosen because of his undaunting commitment to students who are the center of everything he does. After graduating from Plainfield High School in 1982, Brother Lattimore went on to attend Hampton University in Hampton, VA. He graduated from Hampton with a B.A. in Biology in 1986. In 1987, he moved to Louisville and began an illustrious career teaching science at Western Middle School. While teaching at Western Middle, he continued his education and graduated in 1990 with a Masters in Secondary Education from the University of Louisville. From 1991 to 1995, he taught Biology and Anatomy at Moore High School. In 1994, he obtained a Rank I in Administration from the University of Louisville. The following year he became an assistant principal at Atherton High School. After serving three years as an assistant principal at Atherton, he served one year as an assistant principal at Male High School. In 1999, he was promoted to Principal of Crosby Middle School and the rest is now Kentucky and Louisville History. Educators Educators Omega’s Clarion Call In addition to his schoolwork, Brother Lattimore still finds time for Omega. He pledged in 1984 while a student at Hampton University. Since 1995, he has served as a mentor in Theta Omega Chapter’s Men of Quality Mentoring Program for African American males. He is also the Chair of the Chapter’s National Essay Contest for Omega. Brother Dr. Elmer Haymon, Jr Lifetime Member Is Educator Extraordinaire For Our Time By Brother Bob Downing Brother Lattimore is active in his profession and has been a member of the Jefferson County Association of School Administrators since 1998. He served as President of the Jefferson County Assistant Principals Association in 1999 and President Elect from 1998 to 1999. He also served as Vice President of the Jefferson County Assistant Principals Association from 1997 to 1998. In addition to the above named awards and recognitions, he has been presented with the following: 2006 Middletown Optimist Educator Award, 2002 Jefferson County Association of School Administrators Milburn T. Maupin Award, 2002 Chestnut Street YMCA Black Achiever Award, 2001Torchbearer for the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Torch Relay, 2001 Citizen of the Year, Theta Omega Chapter, 1996 Jefferson County Brotherhood/Sisterhood Award and 1995 WHAS-TV/PNC Bank Teacher Excel Award. A devoted family man, Brother Lattimore has been married for the past 20 years to Sharis M. Lattimore and they have two beautiful daughters, Courtney 15 and Kimberly 11. He and his family are currently members of Southeast Christian Church. When asked what is at the root of his success? Brother Lattimore says a strong belief in God and people. While growing up, education was always stressed in our household and I came to value the impact that education can have on the lives of people. He went on to say, it is often an overused saying but I believe that our young people represent our future and their future can be made brighter through education – and that is the message I try to get across everyday of my life! It is clear from the success of Crosby Middle School that Brother Lattimore’s message is getting across and we salute his dedication and hard work! Educators Brother Dr. Elmer Haymon, Jr. Pittsburgh, PA – Brother Dr. Elmer Haymon Jr. (Doc) has served Omega for almost 36 years and has 38 years professional experience in education. His journey is noteworthy of Omega men...from Pittsburgh’s Homewood-N Carolina-Pittsburgh-Alaska-PittsburghTexas-Alabama-Pittsburgh; he has endured hardship, two personal tragedies and health problems. After graduating from Shaw University in 1970 with a B.A. in Elementary Education, Brother Dr. Haymon, Jr. obtained a M.Ed. (1973), a Ed.S. (1974), and Ph.D. (1978) all in Counselor Education at the University of Pittsburgh. Currently, he is the Interim Sr.Vice President of Student and Community Services and CEO at Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC). Since 2001, he has been Assistant Dean and Dean of Students at CCAC. His prior experience included consulting, numerous professorships in Education and Psychology, counseling, child therapy and teacher. This is complemented by 12 publications/papers, 9 professional services, and 10 major professional memberships. Prior to 2001, he counseled and taught over 40,475 students since 1970. He states his greatest contribution to education has been teaching. Yet it is his efforts towards 33 Omega’s Clarion Call global/multicultural counseling and recruitment and retention of minority faculty/students and those towards Omega Brotherhood that attest to his contribution. Examples indicative of this are Human Rights vs. Civil Rights Defined and co-development of the Recruitment and Retention of the Alaska Native and Native American Educators (1987), assisting enactment of legislation for celebration of MLK’s birthday in the State of Alaska, and The Black Male, Endangered Species (Texas 1991). Dedication to his profession is evident; but his devotion to family, Fraternity, and friends is unwavering. Brother Dr. Haymon, Jr. was initiated into Omega by way of Iota Phi Chapter in 1972 serving as Basileus, Keeper of the Peace, Chairman of the Mardi Gras and Boatride Committees and advisor to undergraduate chapters at Tuskegee and Wiley College. He was Iota Phi Chapter’s Omega Man of the Year in 1999. Brother Dr. Haymon, Jr. epitomizes true Omega spirit reclaiming a Brother off the street; participating in Historic Black College Tour and Chapter’s Design Camp, planning-organizing- setting up-working through entire events, helping renovations and repairs, negotiating/paying contracts, transporting Brothers, and helping others attain opportunities (reference letters, employment opportunities, etc). His school and college activities included football and track and he currently has interests in music, cars and reading. One of his many gifts is his wit and delivery in storytelling or humor. Having six children and being a grandfather makes his family a top priority. Brother Doc credits his sister Francene for his opportunity in pursuing a college education and credits his mother for the inspiration to continue professional pursuits when life becomes unkind. However, the Ques encouraged him to live all four cardinal principles. Friendship is essential to the soul. It took a friendship since we were seven years old to write this, Junie. And friends are always in Omega time. WYF 34 Educators Brother Dr. Andrew A. Ray Educator Extraordinaire Rochester, NY- Brother Dr. Andrew A. Ray of Theta Omicron Chapter was born in Centreville, Mississippi. He completed his elementary and secondary education in the New Orleans, Louisiana Public School System. He achieved academic distinction by winning bronze and silver medals in statewide competition, while graduating in the Top 20 in a class of 395. Brother Dr. Ray’s post secondary education includes a B.S. in Economics (Southern University), M.S. in Education (University of New York), M.S. in Administration and a Ph.D. in Administration and Policy from The University of Buffalo. Dr. Ray has demonstrated a life-long commitment to learning through his study at 13 colleges and universities in the United States and Africa including Yale, American University, Loyola, Wisconsin and the University of Ghana (West Africa). His thirst for knowledge has resulted in the conferring of four Professional Certificates for Post Baccalaureate Studies. His professional experience includes Economist, Teacher, Administrator, Adjunct Professor and work with the Urban League, Singer Corporation, The US Department of State and The US Congress in Washington, DC. Brother Dr. Ray has been honored for his extensive work in the areas of Civil Rights, Community, Education and Government. These honors include Foreign Affairs Scholar (Department of State), Presidential Fellow(US Congress), New York State Senate Proclamation for Distinguished Community Service, The Martin Luther King Award(Xerox Employees), Omega Man Of the Year(Theta Omicron), Educator of the Year( In Roads Business and Program for Students in Science and Math), The Metropolitan Women’s Network Award, The John W. Thompson Masonic Community Leadership Award ,United Church Ministries Man of the Year and over two dozen more. Dr. Ray’s work in Omega is recognized worldwide. He started as a Neophyte Basileus at Beta Sigma Chapter (Southern University). He led his Chapter to major honors in the Ninth District including highest GPA and Educators Omega’s Clarion Call Educators largest fraternity line in the University’s history (36). His graduate work encompasses holding every office in the Chapter, as well as numerous committee positions. On the District level, he served as Corridor Rep, First Vice District Representative and District Representative. Internationally, Brother Dr. Ray served on several Supreme Council Committees. He chaired the International Membership and The Charles Drew Scholarship Committees. His Ritualistic and Rededication work is in high demand throughout Omega. to channel funds to local teams of Xerox employees for specific community projects. The purpose of the program is best caught in the equation of Xerox People + Xerox Funds = Effective Community.Since 1974, more than 420,000 employees have participated in 0ver 16,000 different projects nationwide. Brother Utaff Gordon Receives STAR Teacher Distinction By Brother Anthony Fulton His life’s motto has been, when you close your eyes to slumber, do you think that GOD will say that you have earned one more tomorrow by the work you did today. Mu Phi and Alpha Gamma Chapters Contribute To St. Paul Boys And Girls Academies Savannah, GA- Brother Utaff Gordon, of Mu Phi Chapter, has been selected to participate in the STAR Teachers Seminar. The Foundation for Professional Development has selected Brother Gordon to attend the weeklong seminar at the St. Christopher Conference Center on Seabrook Island near Charleston, South Carolina. St. Paul Boys and Girls Academy. Savannah, Georgia- On December 18, 2007, the local chapters of Omega, Mu Phi Chapter (graduate chapter) along with Alpha Gamma Chapter (undergraduate chapter, Savannah State University) donated $4,000 to two local schools through a partnership with the Xerox Corporation’s Community Involvement Program. The Saint Paul Academy for Boys and the Saint Paul Academy for Girls both will receive $2,000 for their Girls Academy started in 2003. The Xerox Community Involvement Program (XCIP) started in 1974 in response to employees wanting to get involved in their communities. Through XCIP, the Foundation launched a program to provide the means Educators Brother Gordon is the first teacher from the Jasper County School District to receive this honor. He is a high school physical science teacher and Department Chairman at Hardeeville High School. Along with receiving the STAR Teach nomination, Brother Gordon was selected by Cambridge College to give a student reflective address during the winter commencement ceremony held in Savannah, Georgia where he received his Masters Degree in Education. Brother Gordon has been married for over 30 years to Mrs. Cynthia Gordon and they have two children and two grandchildren. 35 Omega’s Clarion Call Educator, Brother Michael J. Jackson Wins Drake University Award Chapter Editor, Brother Michael H. Smith Fort Meade, MD – Brother Michael J. Jackson is an outstanding Educator, Author, Actor, and Inspirational Speaker. He worked as principal in a large Urban School Districts such as Cleveland, OH Seattle, OR, Philadelphia, PA and Head of a Charter School in Washington, DC. He published three books The Success Principle, A Song for You, and Improving School Performance to Develop World Class Leaders all found on Amazon, national bookstores and www.believeachievellc.com. Brother Jackson was born in St. Louis, Missouri and attended elementary school there. He was raised in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania and attended the 5th Avenue High School. Brother Jackson later graduated from Boys Town High School near Omaha, Nebraska. Brother Jackson has been selected to be a member of the Missouri Valley Conference All Centennial Team. The conference selected the top athletes for the past 100 years. The award was presented at Drake University February 9, 2008 at half time of the Drake vs. Evansville Men’s Basketball game. According to the latest AP and USA polls, the Drake University Basketball team is ranked in among the top 25 teams in the United States. Educators Mile Relay team to three consecutive Nebraska State Gold Medal Mile Relay Championships. In 1994, he was one of four selected as a Boys Town Hall of History award winner. He has lifetime membership with the Boys Town Alumni Association. Brother Jackson is also a member of Rotary International. He is a Rotary Paul Harris Fellow, and former member of a Rotary International Group Study Exchange (GSE) team from Iowa Rotary District 597. He spent six weeks in New Zealand as a Rotary Ambassador to promote goodwill and understanding among people in the world. Brother Jackson was made by way of Mu Omicron Chapter in the 8th District. He served two terms as State Representative for the chapters in Washington and Oregon and Keeper of Records and Seals in the 12th District. He was nominated at the Dallas, Texas Conclave for the Omega Man of the Year and the Superior Service Award. He holds a life membership with the Fraternity. As a member of Lambda Gamma Gamma Chapter, Brother Jackson remains very active in the Washington DC community in areas that affect our youth. He is committed to the Chapter’s programs and activities that inspire our youth to excel socially and academically. Brother Jackson won three Missouri Valley Conference 440 yard dash indoor and outdoor track championships. He anchored the Drake Mile Relay team in the NCAA Indoor and Outdoor National track meets three years in a row from 1968 to 1970. In 1990, Brother Jackson was awarded the Double D Award from Drake University, which is the highest honor given to a former Drake athlete. While at Drake, he earned his Bachelor and Masters Degree. In addition, he earned his Superintendent certification from Ashland University in Ohio. He is a Nebraska State Gold Medal Winner in the 440yard dash. In addition, he anchored the Boys Town 36 Educators Omega’s Clarion Call Educators Theta Omicron Chapter Presents Project S. T. R. I. D. E. By Brother Joel Cummings, Basileus Rochester, NY- For more than eighteen years, Theta Omicron Chapter has been a Friend of Education and has collaborated with the Rochester City School District, School #4. Initially, we implemented a program entitled Supervising, Training, Relating Ideas and Developing Excellence (Project S.T.R.I.D.E.) to assist with academic achievement and to offer a presence of African-American males who have achieved levels of success beyond what most of our targeted audience sees on a routine basis. Over time, as social conditions have changed, so has the focus of our Saturday sessions. Because of a Call to Action by Rochester’s immediate past Mayor, we revised the focus of our S.T.R.I.D.E. deliverable. The focus changed to developing social and behavioral skills. On two Saturday’s per month, Theta Omicron Chapter members, under the leadership of Brother Robert Mitchell, meet with the students to deliver the agenda. We collaborate with other professionals to deliver skills. One example is the anger management and conflict resolution modules that focus on managing one’s own behavior. Our basic premise is to teach the students that they have power! The power is in the choices that they make so we teach that there is positive reinforcement for good behavior and decisions and consequences for poor behavior and poor decisions. We augment in-school activities by taking the kids on field trips where they can practice the skills taught. For example, when table etiquette training was delivered, we followed with a field trip to a high-end restaurant for practice, observation and feedback. In addition to receiving what we offer, we teach the students that they too are responsible to support the community. To begin the holiday celebration, the students made crafts as gifts for seniors. The students delivered the gifts to a senior facility where one of the founders of Project S.T.R.I.D.E. is now a resident. All spirits were lifted and Brother Wilfred Kenney was es- Educators pecially uplifted to see that his efforts of nearly twenty years ago, is still bearing positive fruit. The members of Theta Omicron host forty students in the program. We are developing both male and female students. Most activities are integrated; however, with our female staff volunteers we are able to deliver gender specific topics as well. Former Marine and Omega Man Builds Lives for the Future Brother David B. Dickerson West Palm Beach, FL-April 4, 2008, one of Lambda Alpha Alpha Chapter’s very own has started a positive club at his present school, U. B. Kinsey/Palmview Elementary entitled the U.B. K Social Club. This is a mentoring club geared toward helping some of the most challenging students in our inner city school system reach their full social and academic potential in order to be successful in life. The club consists of 3rd through 5th grade boys only, 40 total. Our Club Motto is Educating Lives for College Tomorrow! To accomplish this task, Brother Dickerson brings in motivational speakers, teaches the students military drill and step and mainly mentors them. Whenever I bring a guest speaker in to address the boys, that speaker must wear a shirt and tie. I always tell the speaker to mention to the boys that they can go to college, and talk about their own college experiences. The students have met positive influential professionals from our community such as lawyers, preachers, social workers and television producers; they even got a SWAT team demonstration from our local police department. This club has been in existence for two years now and is personally rewarding and fun to the kids. Some of the experiences the students have had thus far are a field trip to a semi-professional baseball game, and an end of the year step show and party. A brief biography of Brother Dickerson includes having taught for 13 years, teaching 4th and 5th graders. He has won numerous awards, which includes his most recent accomplishment of winning the Florida Governor’s Charlie Crist Black History Month Teach- 37 Omega’s Clarion Call Educators er of Excellence in Education Award in February 2008. He has also won Teacher of the Year and The Ida B. Baker Distinguished Minority Teacher of the Year Award. He also coaches football, basketball and track at the high school levels. He is a graduate of Bethune Cookman College in Daytona Beach, FL and graduate of Nova Southeastern University with a Masters degree in Educational Leadership, which he now aspires to become an administrator. He is a veteran of the United States Marine Corp., where he was honorably discharged in 1989. He joined the folds of Omega in 2003 and has served as Lambda Alpha Alpha Chapter’s Vice Basileus and Keeper of Peace. He is the Chapter’s 2007 Omega Man of the Year recipient. Recently during the past hurricanes of Florida, he has helped cook and give out hotdogs and water to displaced families in the Delray Beach, FL area. He also participated in giving out 30 Thanksgiving turkeys this past holiday season. Brother Dickerson is also a member of the American Legion Post 199, Masonic Lodge Boaz 212 and St. Johns Missionary Baptist Church. His hopes for the students include making an immediate and real difference in their lives and future. He also wishes to continue to present experiences to the students that will last a lifetime. 38 Educators S O C I A CTION L Omega’s Clarion Call Social Action Kappa Alpha Alpha Chapter Conducts Voter Registration in Local High Schools for all participating high school students, as it was the first opportunity for many of them to vote. By Brother Clarence Pittman III Giving Is Better Than Receiving By Brother Roscoe Nance The Brothers of Kappa Alpha Alpha Chapter Conduct Voters Registration Drive Dekalb County, Georgia- (March 2008) The Brothers of Kappa Alpha Alpha Chapter planned and coordinated voting registration at two separate high schools, which resulted in the registration over 280 students to vote in the upcoming National Presidential Election scheduled for November of 2008. With the approval and coordination of Principal Dr. Angela Pringle and Counselor Christopher Little, Kappa Alpha Alpha Chapter Brothers manned a couple of tables with voter registration applications at Stephenson High School as students walked in between lunch sessions and classroom breaks. Brothers and student council members provided guidance to all 17 1/2 and 18-year-olds who desired to vote and met eligibility requirements. At the end of the day, over 170 students had completed the registration procedures. Two weeks later, voter’s registration planning led again by Kappa Alpha Alpha Chapter Brothers, Thomas Hill, Greg Davis and Dr. Calvin Horton, set up at Miller Grove High School. With the approval and coordination of Principal Dr. S. Carol Thedford, the Chapter registered over 110 students who completed the short form in between lunch sessions and classroom breaks. Kappa Alpha Alpha Chapter Brothers generally agreed that this process appears to have been an exciting time 40 Brothers of Omicron Kappa Kappa Chapter The Brothers of Omicron Kappa Kappa Chapter joined members of Heritage Fellowship Church in spreading cheer among residents of the Embry Rucker Community Shelter during the holiday season. The groups prepared and served Christmas and New Year’s Day dinner for residents and the volunteers said the experience was as uplifting for them as it was for those who were on the receiving end. It is a very satisfying feeling to come into the holidays giving rather than receiving, giving to those who are less fortunate, said Emanuel McCrae, a founding member of Omicron Kappa Kappa Chapter and a member of Heritage Fellowship. To prepare the food, serve the food and clean up afterward, that was one of the best holidays I have had. I liked doing this because it felt like I was really doing something to help, said Riva Nance, a 10th-grader at Herndon High. She, along with her father, a member of Omicron Kappa Kappa Chapter, and mother helped serve dinner on New Year's Day. Heritage Fellowship, where Rev. Dr. Norman Tate is pastor, and its members have prepared and served meals at the shelter on the third Sunday of each month and on major holidays for more than a decade. The meals were home-cooked by Deacon Howard Hill and his wife Wanda of Heritage Fellowship. Social Action Social Action Omega’s Clarion Call It’s very fulfilling for us, said Deacon Hill. It is what we as believers are supposed to do. It is one of the major missions of the church. What we’ve found over the years is the residents really appreciate someone taking time out to prepare something because they get a lot of (canned foods) donated to them. We try to give them a complete meal and make sure it’s home cooked as much as possible that one day. Theta Omicron Chapter Loftus C. Carson Memorial Golf Tournament By Brother Adrian N. Smalls Rochester, NY - The Brothers of Theta Omicron Chapter, along with Theta Omicron Scholarship Foundation, held the 33rd Annual Loftus C. Carson Memorial Golf Tournament at Blue Heron Hills Country Club in Rochester, NY on July 23, 2007. The tournament is a scholarship benefit with proceeds going to the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) and Theta Omicron Scholarship Foundation. This year, with the diligent work of the Golf Committee, the financial support of several sponsors, and 80 golfers, the tournament netted $10,700.00, which went towards providing scholarships to five Rochester area scholars who will be attending historically Black colleges and universities. A portion of the proceeds was also donated to UNCF to be awarded to other deserving students at the national level. This popular golf tournament is recognized as one of the most successful amateur golf tournaments in the Greater Rochester, NY area. It has always had the support of the business community including international companies such as Eastman Kodak Company and Xerox Corporation as well as small individual proprietorships. Through the support of these businesses, Theta Omicron Scholarship Foundation has contributed more than $245,000 in scholarship dollars to more than 100 local scholars and to the UNCF organization. Theta Omicron Chapter sponsored its first golf tournament in 1975 because of the vision of Loftus C. Carson, an Omega and well-known Rochester, NY human rights advocate. In 1990, the tournament was renamed the Loftus C. Carson Memorial UNCF Golf Tournament, in honor of Brother Carson who was instrumental in the founding and the ongoing success of the golf tournament until his premature death in 1989. The 34th annual Loftus C. Carson Memorial Golf Tournament will be held on July 21, 2008 in Rochester, NY. We expect the 2008 tournament to be our best year yet as we continue to provide financial support to deserving students attending historically Black colleges and universities. We invite Brothers to come to Rochester, NY on that day to fellowship, play golf and support our young scholars. Mentoring Initiative Making a Difference in the Lives of African American and Low Income Youth The Brothers of Xi Alpha Chapter with Mentored Students Charleston, WV-Xi Alpha Chapter instituted a mentoring program for young males at one of the predominantly Black elementary schools on Charleston, WV’s West Side about a year ago. This school had the lowest standardized test scores in the county, high disciplinary problems, poor grades, and a host of other ills. However, with great pride, Xi Alpha Chapter went in with the Omega TALKS (transferring a little knowledge systematically) Mentoring Program and this year they met the annual yearly progress set by the state of West Virginia with the majority of the males we mentored scoring mastery and above. Our mantra is, Every boy needs a man in his face challenging him with wisdom concerning critical issues and decisions. About 1015 Brothers mentor about 50 young males weekly for about an hour. We divide the students into their small Social Action 41 Omega’s Clarion Call Social Action groups based on age, and go through the book, Talks My Father Never Had With Me, (Illinois: KJAC Publishing), by Harold Davis. This curriculum deals with positive behavior, memorizing wisdom, reading more, and becoming a better individual. In addition, we treat the youth with various field trips i.e. restaurants, science museums, Black History programs, etc. as they reach certain milestones. Xi Alpha Chapter has been recognized by the Schoenbaum Family Enrichment Center this past summer; we are on the Maximizing Achievement of African American Children in Kanawha County (MAACK) steering committee with regards to mentoring; and we have received special recognition from the West Virginia Education Alliance for exemplary partnership with a school. Psi Phi Chapter Spreads Holiday Cheer and Thanksgiving By Brother Keith Vereen Brothers of Psi Phi Chapter The Winston-Salem, NC-Psi Phi Chapter traditionally looks forward to planning social action projects in the months of November and December of each year that allows the Chapter to help the community’s less fortunate. In addition to the Thanksgiving food drive, members sponsored a coat drive for the homeless at the Bethesda Center. Mu Chi Chapter Blood Drive On November 15, 2007, members of the Social Action Committee shopped at local grocery stores to purchase food items for five families. In the past, the Chapter provided a wholesome, traditional Thanksgiving meal for the families. Brothers from left to right. Brother Odell Graves, Brother David Vassar, Brother Anthony Scruse and kneeling Brother Frank Smart. On November 9, 2007, The Brothers of Mu Chi Chapter participated in a blood drive at Central State University. We all expect blood to be there for us, but barely a fraction of those who can give do. Yet sooner or later, virtually all of us will face a time of great vulnerability in which we will need blood. And that time is all too often unexpected. The Brothers of Mu Chi Chapter realized this and lived up to their creed as Omegas and stepped up to the plate. 42 Last year, Committee Chairman, Brother Cassius Smith requested that the Chapter begin purchasing enough food to provide for more than one meal. As a result, families were given more than a week’s worth of grocery items. Several fundraiser events during the year provided financial support for mandated programs that allow the Chapter to function as an agent of change in the Winston-Salem, NC area. Psi Phi Chapter members are forever mindful of the needs of our community. In addition, in the spirit of the season, the Chapter sponsored this worthwhile social action project during Thanksgiving. Social Action Social Action Omega’s Clarion Call Social Action Report and Clarion Call Report January 19, 2008 Nov 13, 2007 “Brother to Brother” at the Frank W. Hale Black Cultural Center: During Founders week, Iota Psi Chapter hosted a leadership workshop entitled Brother to Brother. Dr. Reuel Barksdale facilitated the workshop. It called for all the Black male leaders on campus to come together and discuss what defines leadership, and how to become more involved on campus. Other issues discussed where the lack of Black male leadership on Ohio State’s campus, the keys to networking and the importance of Black male graduation. November 14, 2007 Respect for Black Women Seminar at the Frank W. Hale Black Cultural Center: During Founders week, Iota Psi Chapter also hosted a respect for Black Women Seminar. The Brothers addressed problems between males and females, the importance of respecting one another and some of the stereotypes on campus. The seminar was facilitated by the Multicultural Center and the Women Studies Department. The open discussion was very informative and one of the main lessons learned was that as individuals, we teach people how to treat us; if you demand respect, people will give you respect. At the end of the seminar, a yellow rose ceremony was preformed in which all members of the Chapter participated to symbolize friendship and respect gave the women in the audience. Tutoring and Mentoring The members of Iota Psi Chapter are involved in a youth mentoring program in which the Chapter works with student athletes from the Columbus Area. The Mentoring Student Athletes Foundation has weekly study tables on Sunday’s at Ohio State’s Campus. Members of Iota Psi Chapter tutor and mentor the students. Recently the Chapter hosted a program in which members from the Chapter and the Ohio State University Football team spoke to the youth about what it takes to be academically successful and chase their dreams. January 2008 Dr. Charles R. Drew Blood Drive The Brothers of Iota Psi Chapter in collaboration with the American Red Cross, NAACP Ohio State Chapter and the Frank W. Hale Black Cultural Center hosted a blood drive in which the Chapter successfully signed up 50 first or second time donors. This was also a scholarship fundraiser set up through the University that allocated scholarship funds to high school seniors for every first or second time blood donation. Eta Omega Chapter Receives Georgia State Social Action Graduate Chapter Of The Year Award For Sixth Time In Seven Years Brother Stedman S. Southall Eta Omega Chapter, proudly received the Georgia State Social Action Graduate Chapter of the Year Award for 2007 at the recent 44th Georgia State Workshop. This was the sixth time in seven years that Eta Omega Chapter’s Social Action Committee has garnered this Award. Eta Omega Chapter previously received this honor in 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, and 2006. Eta Omega Chapter has enjoyed a truly fabulous seven years of Social Action activities and programs. The Chapter has literally spanned the spectrum of meaningful social action. It has thoroughly interacted with the community and demonstrated the essences of the Cardinal Principles in Its service to the community and to our beloved Fraternity. Brother Archie L. Course, Chairman of the Social Action Committee from 2002-2003, once aptly stated, The Social Action Committee Brothers have walked the walk and talked the talk of Omega. The Committee has enacted the Cardinal Principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance and Uplift through activities and programs, which reach beyond the boundaries of our Fraternity House in Southwest Atlanta, GA to touch the lives of our fellow man. Talking the talk and walking the walk of the Cardinal Principles is an Social Action 43 Omega’s Clarion Call Social Action awesome task, but the Brothers of Eta Omega Chapter have demonstrated a fantastic willingness to contribute the time, talent, and resources necessary to make us an award-winning chapter. In 2007, Eta Omega Chapter’s Social Action Committee participated in Career Awareness Day 2007 at R.N. Fickett Elementary School, participated in and financially supported the Sickle Cell Walk/Race and the American Diabetes Association 5K Walk- Grant Park Atlanta, sponsored the Annual Pre-Father’s Day Breakfast for the men residing at Wheat Street Towers and the Picnic for the R.N. Fickett Elementary School Summer School Program. The Chapter also participated in the 2007 Black Male Expo-Ebony Black Family Reunion Tour Atlanta as well as contributing Thanksgiving turkeys to Wheat Street Towers. Eta Omega Chapter will continue to provide uplift and support for an adopted family. The Chapter’s 2007 activities are among a rich fabric of projects spanning the years. The Social Action Committee’s many activities have included sponsoring an academic test preparation series - the 5”P” SAT Clinic, Boy Scouts of America Merit Badge Clinic, student attendance of an African American Rodeo during Black History Month, local youth baseball teams, staging and participating in American Red Cross blood donation drives, the Annual Big Brothers/Big Sisters Bowl for Kids Sake and holding the Annual Big Brothers/Big Sisters End of Summer Cookout/Swim Party. Other accomplishments include making significant annual financial contributions to the UNCF and the historic Butler Street YMCA, which was once the only Black operated YMCA in America. The Chapter has been presented with an award winning Banking and Money Management seminar series, seminars to promote awareness of liver transplant/organ donation and other health issues as well as holding numerous voter registration drives. Eta Omega Chapter’s Social Action Committee is led by Brother David Moorer. A dedicated group of Committee Brothers supports Brother Moorer. He and the Brothers of the Social Action Committee have carried on a proud tradition established by earlier Social Action Committee Chairmen and hard working Commit- 44 tee Brothers. Eta Omega Chapter is located in Southwest Atlanta, Georgia. Basileus, Brother Don Lee and Vice Basileus, Brother Joseph Robertson lead the Chapter. Omega Iota Iota Chapter Celebrates MLK Day In Montgomery, AL By Brother Derrick Brewster Montgomery, AL – On January 21, 2008, the city of Montgomery, AL hosted its annual Martin Luther King (MLK) Jr. Parade. The parade is an opportunity for citizens within the Montgomery, AL area to celebrate the accomplishments of Dr. King and the changes that have occurred since he took a stand against racial struggles for African Americans. On this day, Omega Iota Iota Chapter Brothers participated in this great event. Members of the Chapter arrived with posters and signs to demonstrate that Omega men support Dr. King and vow to continue his legacy for justice. During the ceremony of the parade, Brother State Senator Quinton Ross delivered a message to the citizens of Montgomery, AL to uphold Dr. King’s dream and to not be afraid to dream. The Chapter will continue to support this historical event. Lambda Iota Chapter and Nu Delta Chapter Donate Christmas Gifts to Needy Families By Marvin Broadwater, Sr On December 22, 2007, the Brothers of Omega Psi Phi Inc., Lambda Iota and Nu Delta (Columbus State University) Chapters in collaboration with the local office of The Department of Family and Children Services, donated over $600 in toys and gift cards to six local families. Over 100 individual toys were donated. The parents and children were overjoyed to receive the unexpected gifts. The event is an annual occurrence for the local Chapter. All levels of the Fraternity are expected to facilitate, participate and coordinate activities that uplift their respective communities. The Brothers consider it an honor to Social Action Social Action Omega’s Clarion Call give back to the community through their outreach programs. The Chapters would like to thank the Wal-Mart on BuenaVista Rd, as it gave a 10% discount on the total cost of the toys. Thanks also goes out to the local office of the Department of Family and Children Services. The Men of Lambda Iota Chapter Donate Thanksgiving Baskets to Local Families to facilitate, participate and coordinate activities that will uplift their communities. The Thanksgiving baskets are one way to show that there are those in the community that care. Chapter members consider it an honor and privilege to give back to their respective communities. The Chapter has also committed to giving Christmas baskets filled with toys to needy families each year as well. By Brother Marvin Broadwater, Sr. Yazoo Ques Sponsor Toy Drive Brothers of Lambda Iota Chapter with Toy Drive Recipients Brother Chalmers W. Mayers, Jr, Brother Kenneth Sallis, and Brother Kerioon Grant Columbus, GA-The men of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Lambda Iota Chapter, annually donates Turkey Baskets to local families during the Thanksgiving holiday. The families are traditionally given baskets containing turkeys (at least 12lbs), traditional Thanksgiving side items and others food items. Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.’s chapters are expected Yazoo City, MS-Members of Xi Kappa Kappa Chapter launched their first annual Ques for Tots Toy Drive. Known as the Yazoo Ques, the men have served youth and families in the Yazoo, MS community since the chartering of the local chapter in December 1996. Brothers of Lambda Iota Chapter and turkey basket recipients Over the past year, the Yazoo Ques have worked with Project REACH and Lifesavers Program personnel to implement a variety of educational, faith-based, health and social enrichment programs designed to uplift youth and strengthen their families. More recently, the group has developed a partnership with Yazoo City High School to sponsor a drive to make the holidays happier for needy families. Everyone was asked to assist in this drive by attending the Yazoo City High School basketball games on December 14 and December 17 and to bring a toy to donate. A drop-off box was set-up at the entrance to the gym on those evenings. All donated items were distributed to needy families following the organization’s annual Achievement Week Celebration set at a local site on December 21. Social Action 45 Omega’s Clarion Call Social Action Rho Beta Beta Chapter Supports Boy Scout Program Rho Beta Beta Chapter Participates in National Social Action Day Houston, TX-Rho Beta Beta Chapter along with its 501-C (3) organization donated a total of $500.00 to the Boy Scouts of America Learning for Life Program. Mr. George Pope, Senior District Executive of the BSC Learning for Life Division – Builders, requested support through Brother Nelson Anthony, who is an Eagle Scout, and the Chapter responded. Brother Spergeon Holly, President of Space Ques and Brother Vernon Weakley, Basileus, presented checks for 250.00 each to Mr. Pope in September 2007. Learning for Life Division - Builders, serves North Forest and Houston Independent School Districts along with one Charter School. It is in the business to help educate, motivate and stimulate boys and girls so they can graduate and be prepared to become outstanding citizens. Members of Rho Beta Beta Chapter are committed to participate in career awareness programs at various schools. Pictured – At Boy Scout office with Brother Nelson Anthony, Brother Spergeon Holly, President of Space City Ques, Mr. George Pope, BSA-District Executive, Brother Vernon Weakley, Basileus. 46 Brother Nelson Anthony, Mr. Charles Savage, and Brother Quinn Meads at the FWEP office. Houston, TX-The first National Social Action Day was November 14, 2007 and the Brothers of Rho Beta Beta Chapter were active with the Northeast YMCA Mentoring Program at Wheatley High School and the Fifth Ward Enrichment Program in Houston, Texas. Brother Clenon Mitchell, Social Action Chairman, set up the Chapter’s participation with the YMCA Mentoring program with 14 junior and senior males. Brothers Rodney Brown, Cal Joubert, and Nelson Anthony were speakers at the event. Brother Brown, an attorney, spoke to the young men about using resources and scholarships to plan for college. Brother Joubert spoke about his journey through the military then going to college and graduating with an engineering degree. Brother Anthony gave the young men strategies on setting goals and priorities. Rho Beta Beta Chapter has worked with the Northeast YMCA on other projects and will continue with the mentoring program. The Fifth Ward Enrichment Program Incorporated (FWEP) is a youth leadership and development program for at-risk males, ages 12 - 19, located in one of Houston’s most economically depressed neighborhoods. FWEP is designed to empower boys to become responsible men and productive members of their families and community. Rho Beta Beta Chapter has made Social Action Social Action Omega’s Clarion Call a commitment to work with the program. Brother Quinn Meads, Basileus, and Brother Nelson Anthony, Ninth District Social Action Chairman met with Mr. Charles Savage, Executive Director, to discuss future plans. Brother Meads presented a check for $100.00 as a Chapter donation. Seaside, CA-Omicron Nu Chapter celebrated excellence in education by honoring Brother Dr. Morris T. Houck Ed. during the Fifth Annual Morris T. Houck (MTH) Scholarship Dinner held on October 20, 2007. Established in 2003 by Omicron Nu Chapter, the Morris T. Houck Scholarship honors the accomplishments and vision of Brother Houck as an educator, mentor, …the establishment of a promising future is dependent on the proper education of our Founded in 1984, FWEP offers to 250 inner city Afscholar, and teacher to tomorrow’s leaders. hildren.”rican By Brother Trevor Robichaux, Omicron Nu Chapter, California American and Latino youth more than 20 Monterey, support services that deter chemical dependency, teen Serving as an educator for over thirty years, Brother pregnancy, school delinquency and dropouts, while Houck’s convictions lay in the belief that if given the promoting self-discipline, personal accountability, and opportunity, any student can achieve greatness. As an Dr. Morris T Houck Ed. self-esteem. These services are provided year-round Omega Man, Brother Houck inculcates the principle through the School-based Projects, and the Teen Eni phi Fraternity Inc., Omicron Nu Chapter, Seaside CA. celebrates excellence in of SCHOLARSHIP into his daily philosophy stating, terprise Center (TEC). The establishment of a promising future is dependent honoring Brother Dr. Morris T. Houck Ed. during the Fifth Annual Morris T. Houck on the proper education of our children. holarship Dinner held on October 20, 2007. The School-based Project is the core program and truly d in 2003defines by thethe Omicron Chapter,toOmega Psi Phi Fraternity Morris T. continues to make a difference, forever holisticNu approach youth development that Inc., the Brother Houck holarshipFWEP honorsembraces. the accomplishments vision of Houck as an educator, that scholarship, aspiration, and attainThis projectand is housed in Brother five schools remembering in teacher the Houston Independent School District’s (HISD) holar, and to tomorrow’s leaders. ment are synonyms. To date, Brother Houck continues Northeast District and provides site coordinators who to play a vital role within the San Mateo, Foster City an educator for over thirty years, Brother Houck’s convictions beliefDistrict, that if and contributing financial support to monitor school activities, interact with teachers andlay in the School opportunity, any student can greatness. an OmegaacMan, Brother Houck administrators, and achieve coordinate daily, As after-school students, families, and schools within the community. the principle of SCHOLARSHIP into hisare daily philosophy, tivities. The site coordinators responsible forstating, the “The ent of a delivery promisingoffuture is dependent on the proper the life skills curriculum, homeeducation visits, andof our children.” The MTH Scholarship, in conjunction with Omicron individual and group counseling sessions. The site coNu Chapter, Omega Psi phi Fraternity Inc., has disouck continues to make a difference, forever remembering aspiration, ordinator is recognized by the school's youth asthat theirscholarship, tributed more than $6,700 in scholarships and awards ment arementor synonyms. To date,The Brother Houck continues to play a vital role within the students across the Northern California on campus. Brothers of Rho Beta Beta look to deserving o, Foster forward City School District, and contributing financial support to students, to long relationship in supporting FWEP. area. families, ls within the community. Honoring Brother Dr. Morris T. Houck, Ed. By Brother Trevor Robichaux Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Walk to Cure Diabetes By Brother Tellis Fears and Brother Darroll Love In support of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated health initiatives, Omicron Nu Chapter, Seaside, California, participated in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s (JDRF) Walk to Cure Diabetes in Pacific Grove, California on October 14th, 2007 along with one-half million other walkers across the country to reach a goal of raising $100 million. Omicron Nu Chapter Scholarship Dinner Type 1, or juvenile, diabetes, is a devastating disease that affects millions of people—a large and growing percentage of them are children. Social Action 47 Omega’s Clarion Call Social Action There is some good news. For the first time, scientists are predicting that we CAN expect to see a cure well within our lifetime! Chapter members, family, and friends participated in the walk this year and raised hundreds of dollars in an effort to contribute to the awareness and cure for this disease. Manhood Scholarship Perseverance Uplift WYF 48 Social Action M A N D PROGRAMS T E D Some of the over 250 attendees listen to the guest speak Guest Speaker, 38th Grand Basileus, Bro. Warren G. Lee, Jr. Guest Speaker, 38th Grand Basileus, Bro. Warren G. Lee, Jr. Bro. Jim Green, 2007 Inductee to the University of Kentucky Hall of F and Founder’s Award Recipient Congressman James Clyburn, Majority House Whip brings greetings. Bro. Michael Lee, Vice Basileus and 2007 Superior Service Award W Congressman James Clyburn, Majority House Whip brings greetings. Omega’s Clarion Call Eta Alpha Chapter Hosts Annual Achievement Week Celebration By Brother Derek T. Smith Mandated Programs Brother Major Demetrius D. Brooks Colonel Charles Young Military Leadership Award Recipient By Brother Joseph C. McKinney Brother Demetrius D. Brooks is Delta Omega Chapter’s 2007 colonel Charles Young Military Leadership Award recipient. He is also the Chapter’s 2007 Superior Service Award recipient. Tiphanie Barry, Dominique Maxwell Shantia D. Solomon, and Justin Andrews Jefferson City, MO-On Sunday, November 18, 2007, the "Capital City Ques" of Eta Alpha Chapter celebrated Achievement Week on the campus of Lincoln University. Three outstanding students were awarded a $750 dollar scholarship to be utilized in the fall of 2008. They included Miss Tiphanie Barry, Mr. Dominique Maxwell and Miss Shantia D. Solomon. An additional scholarship was awarded to the "Citizen of the Year" recipient Mr. Justin Andrews. Mr. Andrews holds the distinction of being the first student recipient of this award. Eta Alpha Chapter also honored one of its own, whose life's work continues to embody Omega's highest ideals. In recognition of exemplary scholarship, leadership and tireless community service, Brother Dr. Robert L. Robinson was presented with the "Eta Alpha Omega Man of the Year" award. Brother Dr. Robinson crossed the burning sands to Omegaland by way of Iota Sigma Chapter in 1969. He served as the Eighth District Representative from 1996 to 1998 and was recognized as the "National Omega Man of the Year" at the 70th Grand Conclave. A retired criminal justice professor, Brother Dr. Robinson was voted Basileus of the Eta Alpha Chapter in 2007 and currently serves as a member of the Missouri Parole Board. He continues to be a glowing personification of Omega's excellence and we are indeed honored, and extremely proud to call him Brother. 50 Brother Brooks is a Major in the United States Army and is stationed at Fort Lee, VA. He is an Acquisition Officer and Combat Developer. Brother Brooks joined the United States Army as a private in 1991 and served as an Air Traffic Coordinator at Fort Bragg, NC. He received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology in 1994 and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice in 1996 from Fayetteville State University. He was commissioned in the U. S. Army through the ROTC in 1996 as a Chemical Officer. Brother Brooks recently completed the intermediate-level Education Advance Civil Schooling. Brother Brooks was initiated in the Fraternity through Delta Gamma Chapter, Fayetteville State University in 1992. He has been a member of Delta Omega for the past three years. Since his initiation into the Fraternity, he has been very active, and has served on the following committees: Economic Development, Talent Hunt, Reclamation and Retention, Scholarship, achievement Week, Charles Drew Blood Drive, Voter Registration Drive, Social Action and Afro-American Life/History. In addition, he chaired Delta Omega Chapter’s Male Protégé Committee, as well as mentored the young men in the program. His past Chapter memberships include Delta Gamma and Beta Chi Chapters (sixth District), Kappa Iota Iota Chapter (third District), Lambda Xi Chapter (13th District), and Tau Gamma Chapter (sixth District). Brother Brooks is affiliated with the United States Army Transportation Association, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Army Air Force Mutual Aid Association and St. Mandated Programs Mandated Programs Ann’s Catholic Church. He is the recipient of many military awards and decorations to include the Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Army National Defense Service Medal, Armed Force Expeditionary Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, NATO Medal and Parachutist Badge. Brother Brooks is to be commended for making outstanding contributions to the military and community. He truly exemplifies and represents the Fraternity’s four cardinal principles: Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance and Uplift. International Talent Hunt Committee “Working Hard for Omega” By Brother Carlton Lampkins, 2nd District Talent Hunt Chairman In 2005, Brother Larry Pough of Theta Omicron Chapter (Rochester, NY) became the chair of the International Talent Hunt Committee (ITHC), which consists of the Talent Hunt chair from each of the 12 districts of the Fraternity and a vice chair, Brother Ernest Goode from the Ninth District. From the onset, the ITHC began working, mainly via conference calls, on updating and revising the International Talent Hunt Manual of guidelines, procedures, suggestions, and judging criteria for producing topnotched chapter and district talent hunt competitions. During our discussions, several changes were made to enhance our talent hunt competitions and the criteria on which contestants are judged. The final draft of those improvements was submitted to the Grand Basileus and First Vice Grand Basileus for approval, which was granted in January 2006. Subsequently, any financial Brother placed the revised manual on the International website for access. As the ITHC progressed with its work, we held an organizational retreat at International Headquarters to prepare for the Grand Conclave Talent Hunt Demonstration in Little Rock, Arkansas in July 2006. The Omega’s Clarion Call purpose for our retreat was to continue our planning for that event; to gather historical information on the talent hunt; and to develop a long-range plan for improving all aspects of talent hunt logistics. Due to the collaborative efforts, expertise and skills, and commitment of the members of the ITHC, the 2006 Talent Hunt Demonstration, a non-competitive exhibition, went off without a hitch. The 12 talented young people, representing the 12 Districts, proved why they were selected as talent hunt winners of their respective districts. They were professional and presented fantastic performances! In 2007, the ITHC made a request to the Supreme Council to have a Talent Hunt Demonstration at our Leadership Conferences so that students who win in the odd numbered years that the Leadership Conferences are held can take advantage of the exposure and scholarship awards that are afforded the students who participate in Talent Hunt Demonstrations at Grand Conclaves held in even numbered years. That request was submitted and approved. Thus, beginning with the 2009 Leadership Conference, a Talent Hunt Demonstration will be held! Since the 2006 Talent Hunt Demonstration, the ITHC has been preparing for the 2008 Talent Hunt Demonstration to be held in July 2008, at the Grand Conclave in Birmingham, Alabama. All of the different aspects of producing a high quality Talent Hunt Demonstration are being addressed. The ITHC is working on two new projects related to the 2008 Talent Hunt Demonstration – producing a DVD of the demonstration and having the demonstration shown on regular television or on a public broadcasting station. You do not want to miss the 2008 Talent Hunt Demonstration in Birmingham, Alabama, for it promises to spotlight some of the most talented young people from the west coast to the east coast and from our overseas 13th District! If you have ideas or suggestions that you feel will help the ITHC take our internationally mandated talent hunt program to “the next level,” contact your district Talent Hunt chair. We welcome your input! Mandated Programs 51 Omega’s Clarion Call Mandated Programs Xi Kappa Kappa Chapter Local Fraternity Chapter celebrated Achievement Week their families." Coordinated by Brother John Hunt, the program also featured a welcome address by Brother Ken Sallis, historical overview of the local and national chapter by Brother Cedric Hayes, remarks and presentation of awards by Brother Antonio Landers. Members, known as the "Yazoo Ques" provided musical entertainment during the evening with a guest appearance by one of its local Brothers, Rev. Gregory Robertson. The Brothers of Xi Kappa Kappa Chapter Yazoo City, MS-Members of the Xi Kappa Kappa Chapter recently celebrated their annual Achievement Week with a banquet and awards program held at the Mississippi Chemical Corporation Conference CenterRick's Memorial Library Annex in Yazoo City. The gala affair attracted some 50 participants from the local and surrounding communities. Achievement Week, one of the national programs of the international Fraternity (founded in 1911 in Washington, DC) was first designed to promote the study of Negro life and history. Today, the program seeks out and gives due recognition to individuals and groups who make noteworthy contributions toward improving the quality of life for humankind in communities all over the world. Xi Kappa Kappa Chapter's 2007 theme focused on empowering youth and enhancing the community through education and service. Brother Arthur James, featured speaker, challenged fellow members to become actively involved in all community affairs, especially education, health, politics and religion. Brother James said, "We must all work together, partnering with schools, churches, businesses, other social-civic organizations and individuals to strengthen our bonds in order to uplift and enrich the lives of our youth and 52 For their extra-ordinary diligence and dedication, Brother Kerioon Grant was presented the "Omega Man of the Year" award while Brother Alfranso Davis received the "Superior Service" award. Gloria Elayne Owens gave accolades and special expressions of appreciation to the entire chapter, coordinator of the "Lifesavers" Program, a youth leadership and character-development project offered to area elementary, middle and high school students. Members of the local chapter were recognized and given tokens of appreciation for their outstanding and generous support and volunteer service of the “Lifesavers" Program in conjunction with Project REACH (Resources for Educating Adolescents on Choices and Health) implemented at Graystone Apartments under the leadership of Brother Aaron Greenfield, a local Brother who recently relocated. Due to the courtesy and generosity of the "Yazoo Ques" a few Yazoo families shared a merrier Christmas, as the members presented food - including a prepared Christmas dinner - , clothing, toys and educational materials to three deserving families they adopted in the Yazoo area. Xi Kappa Kappa Chapter expresses sincere appreciation to all who supported the local toy drive held at Yazoo City High School in early December. The members have made a firm commitment to be more visible and actively involved in the lives of the youth and their families in 2008. For more information about current and future community programs/projects sponsored by Xi Kappa Kappa Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, contact Antonio Landers, president, at P. O. Box 1193, Yazoo City, MS 39194 or call Brother Kerioon Grant at 601-291-5092. Mandated Programs Mandated Programs Upholding Tradition Ninety-Six Years and Beyond: Phi Kappa Kappa Chapter Celebrates Achievement Week By Brothers: Calleb Obumba and Marc Styles Brothers of Phi Kappa Kappa Chapter East Point, GA—The Brothers of Phi Kappa Kappa Chapter celebrated the 96th Anniversary of the Fraternity through a week full of events that successfully concluded with the Chapter’s 9th Annual Achievement Week Founders Day banquet. The 10-man committee, anchored by Brother Vernon Hawkins, orchestrated a week’s worth of events consisting of church fellowship, veterans hospital visit, Monday Night Football viewing, Brotherhood night and a all Greek mixer leading up to the Achievement Week Banquet. Achievement week kicked off Saturday, November 10, 2007 at Michon’s Restaurant in College, Park where 21 Brothers attended ‘The Brotherhood’ luncheon to discuss the state of our African-American community. Brother Sulaiman Nuriddin spoke about Domestic Violence and how there is a dire need to facilitate a program to educate and inform the community about the important matter. Brother Kevin Williams, in addition, talked about the drastic impact of HIV/AIDS in the metro Atlanta area. Sunday, November 11, 2007, 20 Brothers attended the Chapters’ praise and worship visit to Andrew United Omega’s Clarion Call Methodist Church in Jonesboro, GA. The church, under the direction of pastor Wimbley Hale, Jr. received a donation from the Chapter presented by Immediate Past Basileus, Brother Michael Randall. Pastor Hale touched on four key points in his message to the congregation. Do not leave Jesus out of our tumultuous situations in life. When life gets to an all time low, keep on calling Jesus and he will help you weather the storm. He then went on to reflect that life does not go as we planned. In closing, you put everything together and God will take care of all of your needs according to his riches and glory. On Monday morning, November 12, 2007 several Brothers, mostly military, visited war veterans in the Veterans Memorial Hospital in Atlanta. The patients, along with the medical staff were very elated to have the Brothers from the Chapter come out to show love, support and drop off DVD’s to the sick and shut-in. Later that evening, in conjunction with Tau Chapter, PKK Chapter hosted a Monday Night Football viewing between the St. Louis Rams and the San Francisco 49ers. About 40 people attended the event and enjoyed the fellowship from both premier graduate chapters from the Metro Atlanta area. The gym of Randolph Elementary in College Park was host to Brotherhood night on Tuesday, November 13, 2007. Brotherhood night was an event to bridge the ‘old school’ and ‘new school’ Brothers of the Fraternity together through discussions of the Fraternity’s history from its humble beginning on November 17, 1911 to the present. Brothers from the 1960’s- 2000’s reflected on brotherhood, friendship and fraternity. Wednesday, November 14, 2007 was the First Annual Greek Social, held at Grown Folks in College Park. Several members of the ‘Divine Nine’ from the surrounding metro Atlanta, GA area attended the mixer, where the 2007, Georgia State Champion PKK Chapter Hop Team performed an 8-minute exhibition. The monumental moment of the night, however, was when the Brothers of the Chapter, along with the patrons in Mandated Programs 53 Omega’s Clarion Call attendance, raised over $600 for the mother of Genarlow Wilson. Mr. Wilson was incarcerated and was recently released from prison for having consensual sex with a female student. He served almost 3 years of his 10-year sentence and will be attending Morehouse College next fall. The annual Achievement Week Banquet was the finishing touch on a monumental Omega Year for the reigning Georgia State Chapter of the Year, Phi Kappa Kappa Chapter. The banquet was held at the luxurious ballroom of the Renaissance Concourse Hotel in College Park; over 100 people attended the event, which had Georgia Department of Labor Commissioner Mr. Michael Thurmond as its keynote speaker. In addition, five students received scholarships after being rewarded in the annual essay contest. Other special invited guest in attendance was Genarlow Wilson, who received a standing ovation from the audience for the perseverance he endured over the years. He received a great deal of encouragement and assurance that he would not fall by the way side. Thurmond spoke on various topics ranging from education, health and politics. He encouraged and challenged the audience to take an active role in making the world a better place by doing the simple things, which include taking care of the community. Michael Randal, the Chapter’s Immediate Past Basileus received the Omega Man of the Year Award for his hard work, sacrifice and dedication over the last year for the Chapter and the Fraternity. In his closing speech, Randall challenged all Chapter Brothers to “Get in the Fight” on all levels of the Fraternity. He then passed the torch to Basileus Elect Brother Reginald Dean Sullivan, the event concluded with over 40 Brothers in attendance singing ‘The Omega Hymn.” Mandated Programs Lambda Iota Chapter Conducts Its Annual Achievement Week Program By Brother Marvin Broadwater, Jr. Brothers of Lambda Iota Chapter Columbus, GA—Lambda Iota Chapter held its Annual Achievement Week program at M. L. Harris Methodist Church on November 11, 2007. The Achievement Week Program was originally designed to promote the study of Negro life and History. Achievement Week is used to seek out and give due recognition to those individuals at the local and national level who have made a noteworthy contribution toward improving the quality of life for Black Americans. Along with the announcement of award winners, the Fraternity also conducts a National Essay contest awarding Scholarship monies to a local, District (GA, FL, AL & MS), and national winner. The National High School Essay Contest is a phase of achievement week that is held in November of each year. The contest is open to college-bound high school seniors. College scholarships are awarded to the winners, each of whom must submit an essay on a theme/topic, which is chosen annually by the Fraternity. This year’s theme is what is the number one issue that would make the biggest difference in the lives of black people and if you were President, how would you address it? The program recognizes the achievements of citizens, 54 Mandated Programs Mandated Programs educators, religious leaders, students, and fraternity brothers within the community. In 1926, Brother Carter G. Woodson passionately known as The Father of Black History, charged Black fraternities and other organizations to recognize citizens who have contributed not only to their respective organization, but to their respective communities as well. Omega’s Clarion Call More than 140 Brothers, friends, and family members attended the program. Achievement Week Activities Hosted By The Brothers Of Theta Tau, Gamma Psi, And Theta Eta Chapters By Brother Anthony Burdell This year’s Achievement Week winners are: Local Essay Winner--Ms. Kremease Dora (George Washington Carver High School) Citizen of the Year-Brother Travis Chambers and Brother Cedric Dirty Superior Service Award-- Brother Vincent Galvin Omega Man of the Year--Brother Jeffery Gibson. Achievement Week Activities hosted by the Brothers of Alpha Phi, Eta Epsilon, and Kappa Delta Chapters By: Brother Rufus McGhee Birmingham, Alabama – Alpha Phi Chapter (Graduate), Eta Epsilon Chapter (Undergraduate Miles College), and Kappa Delta Chapter (UAB) chapters held their Eighty-Second Achievement Week observance on November 4, 2007 at the Fairfield Civic Center in Fairfield, Alabama. The theme for this observance was Three Looks, One Focus: Family – Fraternity – Friendship. Brother Robert L. Holmes, Jr. serves as the Senior Vice President of Alabama Power Company and was the event’s featured speaker. He delivered a very encouraging and challenging speech urging all attendees to revisit lessons taught by and learned from previous generations. Some of those lessons included manners and how to properly treat Black women as well as how to incorporate those lessons into today’s environment to improve the behavior of our youth. Various Achievement Awards were presented. Brother Allison Wrenn received the Superior Service Award. Brother Rev. Trot D. Johnson received the Religious Leader of the Year Award. Brother Nathaniel Bagley, Jr. received the Graduate Citizen of the Year Award. Dr. Yvette Richardson received the Educational Leader of the Year Award. Talladega, Alabama - Theta Tau Chapter (Graduate), Gamma Psi Chapter (Undergraduate Talladega College) and Theta Eta Chapter (Undergraduate Jacksonville State University) chapters held their Annual Achievement Week observance on November 11, 2007 in Callanan Upper Lounge at Talladega College in Talladega, Alabama. The theme for this year’s Achievement Week Program was Three Looks, One Focus: Family – Fraternity – Friendship. Mr. Eddie L. Tucker serves as a city council member for Ward II in Talladega, Alabama and was the guest speaker. Mr. Tucker began his speech with a poem. His topic covered Being Strong, Be Full of Courage, and Possess the Land. Mr. Tucker’s speech was very insightful and thought provoking. Various Achievement Awards were presented during the ceremony. Brother Willie Duncan received the Superior Service Award. Brother Herman Terrell received the Founder’s Award. Brother Ray C. Lindsey received the COL Charles Young Military Service Award. Brother Johnny L. Harris received the Omega Man of the Year Award. Mr. Steven Folks received the Citizen of the Year Award. Ms. Laura Harris provided praise dance during the program. Mr. Eddie L. Tucker received a special achievement award from the Brothers of the local chapters. The affair was well attended by family, friends, fellow Greeks, and community Leaders. A reception was provided for the attendees of this great event. WYF Mandated Programs 55 Omega’s Clarion Call Students Showcase Talent With Brothers of Xi Xi Chapter By Brother Mike Wade Fort Knox, KY - On Friday, November 16, 2007, Xi Xi Chapter hosted a Talent Hunt and Scholarship Recognition Program at the Fort Knox Leaders Club Candlelight Room. The Talent Hunt competition involved eight students representing Fort Knox, North Hardin and Elizabethtown High Schools. The talent involved three musicians and five vocalists. The winner of the competition was Ms. Amanda Young of Elizabethtown High School who played a classical selection on piano-entitled Hoomberg Suite by Grieg. The second place winner was Mr. Mike Taylor of Fort Knox High School who enlightened us on electric guitar playing Cannon Rock by Jerry C. of the famed rock group U2. Our third place winner was Mr. Chris Shanks of North Hardin High School who sang an original piece entitled Bye, Bye, You in acapella and really worked the crowd. The Chapter awarded the winners with cash prizes, trophies, and gift certificates from local area restaurants. The other participants in the Talent Hunt competition included Ms. Jamielyn Riggins of Fort Knox high School, Mr. Quintin Harrison of North Hardin High School, Ms. Jennifer Brazier of Fort Knox High School, Mr. Leandre Hostler of Fort Knox High School, and Mr. Dominique Young of Fort Knox High School. All other participants in the Talent Hunt competition received a replica trophy with a musical note emblem with Xi Xi Chapter 2007 Omega Talent Hunt inscribed and gift coupons from local area restaurants. To further demonstrate the Chapter's ability to provide encouragement and exposure, all Talent Hunt participant were offered an opportunity to receive expert instruction by the 113th Army Band at Fort Knox and an opportunity to participate in their holiday band concerts, as well as future band concerts performances. During the same program, the Chapter awarded $4500.00 in scholarships to seven Hardin County, 56 Mandated Programs Kentucky college bound students represent all five local area high schools. The recipients of our Local scholarships were as follows: Ms. Amanda Young of Elizabethtown HS; Mr. Cameron Tucker of North Hardin HS; Ms. Chianta Holmes of North Hardin HS; Mr. Cody Mitchell of John Hardin HS; Ms. Lindsey Skaggs of Central Hardin HS; Ms. Stacie Wallace of Central Hardin HS; and Ms. Whitney Lewis of Fort Knox HS. The Chapter also recognized its local winner to the National Essay Contest, Ms. Amanda Young of Elizabethtown HS and provided her an incentive award of $100.00 during the program. The Chapter collected non-perishable food items and donated it to the Fort Knox Army Community Service Helping Hands Program in support of Thanksgiving and the Fort Knox Holiday Food drive. Nu Phi Chapter Hosts 2008 Talent Hunt Competition By Brother James O. McHenry, Ed.D. Brothers of Nu Phi Chapter and Talent Hunt Participants. Houston, Texas – Talent is in large quantity in the Houston area. On Saturday, February 2, 2008, Nu Phi Chapter hosted 12 high school fine artists. The event was held at the Fifth Ward Multi-Purpose Center in Houston, TX. Many Nu Phi Chapter Brothers and their families, students and parents, and some members of the community attended. The 12 students competed for first, second, and 3rd place cash awards, and the audience was enthusiastic and impressed with the level of talent. The artistic Mandated Programs Mandated Programs abilities showcased included instrumental music, vocal renditions, dramatic readings, dance, and oil paintings. One audience favorite during the contest was an alto saxophone performance by 12th grader, David Lee LaFleur Jr., of a Charlie Parker tune, Parker’s Mood, which elicited a rousing ovation. Another favorite and stimulating presentation was a vocal interpretation of Soon It Will Be Done, by contralto Iman Marie Eli. The audience was entertained during rating pauses by live music, The Drumgoole Duo, comprising of Brother William Drumgoole on piano with trumpet support. The Nu Phi Chapter Quettes, Chaired by Lillie Love Lacy, served delicious hors d’oeuvres and assorted drinks at the conclusion of the competition. Being that the Talent Hunt Competition is a nationally mandated program, we were very pleased with the quality of the performances, and we are striving to delve deeper into the fine arts. It was the first time that we featured presentations in the Visual Arts area, and we plan to expand our search in that often overlooked artistic creation. The Nu Phi Chapter Talent Hunt Committee consisted of Brothers Sam Lacy (Chairman), O.K. Thomas, Ira B. Scott Jr., Walter Johnson and this writer. They were pleased with their work and are setting higher standards for next year. Houston Coalition of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Chapters Celebrate 19th Founders’ Day Banquet By Brother James O. McHenry, Ed.D. Grand Basileus, Brother Warren G. Lee, Jr. Receives award from the Coalition Omega’s Clarion Call Houston, Texas - On Sunday, November 8, 2007, the Houston, TX Area Coalition of Chapters celebrated its 19th Annual Founders’ Day Banquet. The participating 10 Chapters included Nu Phi, Theta Chi, Rho Nu, Rho Xi, Rho Beta Beta, Tau Epsilon, Rho Theta, Omega Theta, Eta Mu, and Nu Delta. We are especially proud of the Coalition of Chapters. Nu Phi Chapter and Rho Beta Beta Chapter established the Coalition in 1988. Aside from working jointly on the Founders’ Day activity, the Coalition has successfully collaborated on many projects. The affair was held at the Crowne Plaza Ballroom in Houston, Texas, and over 300 Brothers, including some sweethearts, were in attendance. The food was exquisitely prepared, and the attendees were resplendently dressed; many of them were in formal attire. We were pleased to have our illustrious 38th Grand Basileus, Brother Warren G. Lee, Jr., as the Keynote Speaker for the event. The Grand Basileus, opening with the Prayer of Jabez (1 Chronicles 4:10), touched upon several topics, including Family, Fraternity, and Friendship; Economics and Black Empowerment; and Entertainment and Lifestyles of Black Men. The essence of the talk was Getting Things into Context: Who, Why, and What We Are. The Grand Basileus emphasized that we need higher standards, should shun mediocrity, that there is too much rhetoric, and that we, together, form a circle of leaders. The speaker reminded us that Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. was founded for leadership. He spoke of the sterling leadership of Brothers Carter G. Woodson, who wrote, Mis-education of the Negro, and Dr. William Bill Cosby’s, Come on People. The well-planned program was accentuated by a reception and silent auction, presentation of colors by the Buffalo Soldiers and an eloquent and stirring selection of poetry by Brothers James Allen of Rho Beta Beta Chapter (And What’s More, You’ll be an Omega Man, My Son) and Varion Howard of Theta Chi Chapter (I’ll Do Me, Stepping Up to the Plate, and “History of the Power of God). Both of these Brothers are accomplished writers, poets, and character actors. The program concluded with an inspiring Benediction Mandated Programs 57 Omega’s Clarion Call Mandated Programs by Brother Ira B. Scott, the District’s outstanding ninety-one year old exemplar. Finally, our official hymn, Omega Dear, was superlative on this evening. Theta Omega Chapter Celebrates 85 Years Of Service To The Louisville, Kentucky Community By Brother Alfonso N. Cornish Congressman James Clyburn, Majority House Whip brings greetings. time member of the Chestnut Street YMCA Board of Directors. Brother Oliver A. Ross was a community leader. Brother James A. Redd was the President of Supreme Life and Mammoth Insurance Company. Brother Dr. William Bright was a professor of biology at Louisville Municipal College (LMC) and later the University of Louisville. th Guest Speaker, Grand Basileus, Brother Guest Speaker, 3838th Grand Basileus, Bro. WarrenWarren G. Lee,G.Jr. Lee, Jr. Louisville, KY - On Saturday, November 10, 2007, over 250 attended a celebration of Theta Omega Chapter’s 85-year legacy at the Galt House. Included in attendance at he black tie gala were Congressman John Yarmuth and his wife Kathy along with Brother Congressman James Clyburn, from Columbia, South Carolina, who is currently the Majority Whip and 3rd ranking Democrat in the House of Representatives, Brother City Councilman David Tandy as well as Councilwoman Judith Green. On December 12, 1922, five prominent Louisvillians chartered Theta Omega Chapter. The five charter members included Brother Dr. Charles H. Parrish, Jr., an educator and sociologist who was known for his participation in the Civil Rights movement and community work. He was also a tenured faculty member at LMC as well the University of Louisville Congressman Jamesas Clyburn, Majority House Whip bringshaving greetings. served as chair of the Department of Sociology in 1959. He was later inducted into the University of Louisville Hall of Fame. Brother John Leake was an entrepreneur and businessperson in the area. He owned the The Brown Derby on old Market Street and was a long 58 The guest speaker for the evening was Omega’s 38th Grand Basileus, Brother Warren G. Lee, Jr. from Dallas, Texas. He spoke on the topic Everything Rises And Falls On Leadership. Brother Grand Basileus Lee challenged the audience to think differently and understand the importance of a leader having clarity of purpose, character and being Christ centered. He stressed the importance of leaders believing in Excellence and Accountability. Awards were presented to the following Brothers: Charles “Chuck” Matthews received the Chapter’s Citizen of the Year award. Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Inc. have recognized Mr. Matthews as the 2007 National Big Brother of the Year. Jim Green was presented the Founder’s Award. Mr. Green, a world-class sprinter, was a 2007 inductee into the University of Kentucky Hall of Fame. Michael Lee, the Chapter’s Vice Basileus received the Superior Service award and Alfonso “Al” Cornish was named Theta Omega Chapter’s Omega Man of the Year. The committee chaired by Brother Charles Matthews planned a full week of activities for the members leading up to the black tie gala. The week kicked off with a Reclamation Monday Night Football Party. On Wednesday, the Social Action Committee under the Mandated Programs Mandated Programs Omega’s Clarion Call Some of the over 250over attendees listen to the guest Some of the 250 attendees listen to speaker the Bro. Alfonso Cornish, 2007 Omega of the Yearof the Year Brother Alfonso Cornish, 2007 Man Omega Man Bro. Jim Green, 2007 Inductee to the University of Kentucky Hall of Fame Brother Jim Green, 2007 Inductee to the University of and Founder’s Award Recipient Bro. Charles “Chuck” 2007 National Big2007 Brother of the Year Brother CharlesMatthews, “Chuck” Matthews, National and Theta Omega’s Citizen of the Year Brother Lee, Vice Basileus and 2007 Superior Bro. MichaelMichael Lee, Vice Basileus and 2007 Superior Service Award Winner Congressman John Yarmuth brings greetings and well wishes guest speaker Kentucky Hall of Fame and Founder’s Award Recipient Service Award Winner Big Brother of the Year and Theta Omega’s Citizen of the Year Congressman John Yarmuth brings greetings and well wishes Mandated Programs 59 Omega’s Clarion Call leadership of Brother Lester Sanders sponsored a forum for the young men at the J. Graham Brown School. It was an hour-long discussion session lead by, Brother Vincel Anthony. The topic was How to deal with the opposite sex. Brother Sanders opened the discussion by getting the young men to respond to the question, Are we doing our part as African American Men? On Friday night, the Brothers and quettes gathered for an evening of food, fun and camaraderie. The week concluded with Brothers attending worship service at Watson Memorial Baptist Church. Since its establishment, Theta Omega Chapter has served the needs of the Louisville, KY metro area. Its members who reside throughout the city, are involved in all aspects of the community, and are prominent leaders. Annually, the Chapter awards scholarships to eligible high school seniors in order that they may continue their post secondary education. Theta Omega Chapter annually sponsors a talent demonstration as well as mentoring support in area schools. Its Men of Quality Program and Lifestyle Choice Forum has been formally recognized by the Kentucky Department of Education and the Jefferson County Public School System and provides young African American men with support, role modeling, motivation and life skills. Kappa Alpha Alpha Chpater 2007 Fall Talent Hunt By Brother Clarence Pittman III Decatur, Georgia- Once again, on this past September of 2007, Kappa Alpha Alpha Chapter conducted its Annual Talent Hunt as the Brothers hosted a magical evening for students who displayed their God given gifts in the categories of drama, instrumental and voice. This setting was similar to the path recently taken by a past graduating senior, from Dekalb School of the Arts, Reginald Smith, Jr.; who won $1,000 in the vocalist category at the 7th District Talent Hunt Competition held in March at Huntsville, Alabama. Included in his successful journey was winning over tough contestants in the states of Mississippi, Alabama and Florida. Brother Cartrell Watts, who is the Talent Hunt Chairman, coordinated and distributed applications to all 60 Mandated Programs 20 high schools in the county. At the event, Brother Robert Bob Lee, Master of Ceremonies, introduced each selection and shared career insights of each student. The First place honors was achieved by Desi Raines another senior student out of Dekalb School of the Arts. Bellowing out his Vocal Selection, A House is Not a Home. Desi was able to advance to the next level held in Norcross, Georgia in an attempt to perform at the State Talent Hunt Competition. Achieving 2nd Place Honors in the event was Brittany Howard, a freshman from Stephenson High with her Vocal Selection, His Eye Is On The Sparrow. Two juniors from Stephenson High captured third place honors and they were Calina Cheekes with her Vocal Selection Butterflies and Brionca Williams with her Oral Presentation, As You Like It. With the help of the contestants’ parents, participating high school faculties and staffs, and the Kappa Alpha Alpha Brothers, this year’s adjudicators had a tough job with selection of the winners. However, the Chapter was blessed with the combined experiences and talents of the attending judges who were Mrs. Dionne Davis, who’s been playing the violin since age 9, including as a member of The African American Philharmonic Orchestra, The New Atlanta Philharmonic, and The Georgia State University Symphony Orchestra and Ms. Vanessa E. Bagley, member of the Dance Ministry at Greenforest Community Baptist Church in Decatur, Georgia for several years where she’s been a devout Christian in spirit and dance; and Mr. Mark A. Norwood, who began formal music training since age 12, and after receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from Morehouse College has earned Teacher of the Year in Dekalb County and is a Music Specialist at Browns Mill Elementary School. I am proud of the talent we continue to see in Dekalb County every year, says Brother James Brown, Basileus of Kappa Alpha Alpha Chapter, who also serves as both the State of Georgia Talent Hunt Chairman and is a member of the District Talent Hunt Committee. These young people continue to demonstrate themselves good enough to compete not only at the state level… but at district and beyond. Mandated Programs Omega’s Clarion Call H U M A I N T EREST Matthew Coleman ops Brother LTC Coleman oleman, United States Army attalion, 46th Infantry Regiment 20, 2007 at Fort Knox, African-American commander . ned as the Headquarters United States Central g headquarters staff at MacDill ard Headquarters in Doha, enant Colonel Coleman was the Place Indian Trail Elementary School ENTCOM stood up as a 3. Honoring One of Our Own The thoroughly immersed Brothers of Epsilon Pi Chapter of The Omega Psi P Fraternity Incorporated honored one of its’ own (Brother Floyd Calvin Lewis, III– holding shield), on Saturday, February 9, 2008. Brother Floyd Calvin Lewis, III has been a fraterna member of this organization for the past fifteen years. He has been a lifelong resident of th city (Chester), in which he has pledged to protect and serve as a law enforcement official. Brother Lewis has been a member of the Chester city police force since 1973, following in footsteps of his father (Floyd Lewis, Jr.). Brother Lewis has served the police force in seve capacities (patrolman, crime prevention officer, juvenile officer, narcotics officer, D.A.R.E educator, Patrol Sergeant, Detective Sergeant, and Patrol Major), that has enabled him to re heights rarely achieved by a police officer in such as short period of time. Within a six mo span, Brother Lewis was not only appointed as Deputy Chief of Police in August 2007, but was later named Chief of Police in on December 26, 2007 by Chester City Mayor, Wendell Butler, who also served as Chief of Police at one point in time. Brother Lewis was not just given his position, because of his legacy and hard work in the community, but because he h earned the respect and admiration of not only his fellow officers and city officials, but the r Human Interest Omega’s Clarion Call Sam and Minnie Ray Hunter receive accolades at the Xi Pi Chapter Founders Banquet Nov 2007 Xi Pi Chapter Celebrates Her Bridge Builder: Brother Samuel Hunter’s 70th Omega Anniversary By Brother Lloyd Alston On Friday, November 16th 2007, the Sons of Blood and Thunder gathered at the Peterson AFB Officers Club to celebrate our Founders; to offer our gratitude for their wisdom, fortitude and courage in creating our beloved Fraternity; and to recommit ourselves to the principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance and Uplift. Led by our Executive Committee, Xi Pi Chapter’s Brothers also utilized the occasion to commemorate the evening by honoring the Omega Man principally responsible for the Chapter’s founding in 1974, Brother Samuel C. Hunter, Jr. Brother Hunter lived in Colorado Springs, Colorado, during the years of his early education, graduating from Colorado Springs High School, now known as William J. Palmer High School. He attended West Virginia State College, a historically Black college located near Charleston, WV. Brother Hunter played forward on the West Virginia State basketball team, and counted Leon Sullivan, who would later become a nationally known civil rights leader, as one of his teammates. 54 62 While a West Virginia freshman, Brother Hunter noted that many of the top leaders on campus were Omega Men and that fact served as strong motivation for his decision to join Theta Psi Chapter on December 9, 1937, as number 8 of 9 pledges. Brother Hunter's initiation process was somewhat different from today’s Membership Selection Process, though very typical for many Omega Men. While on line, the pledges did everything together; dressing alike, eating together, studying together, and moving in unison about campus together, with each pledge lugging around a bucket with a brick in it. His line’s perseverance was tested when they collectively refused the directive of their Big Brothers to carve the Greek letter Omega into every other telephone poll from the school’s campus to the town of Dunbar, which was about 3 miles away. After becoming an Omega Man, Brother Hunter served as Theta Psi Chapter’s Editor during his junior year. Despite proud memories of his initiation process, Brother Hunter fervently agrees with the current procedures incorporated in the existing Membership Selection Process as an improvement on the pledge process he experienced. Human Interest Omega’s Clarion Call Human Interest Six months after Brother Hunter graduated from West Virginia with a BS in Business Administration in June 1941, Japan bombed Pearl Harbor in December 1941. By then he had moved to Chicago, IL and was well on his way to completing a course of study at Worsham College of Mortuary Science. To serve his country, Brother Hunter enlisted in the U. S. Army Air Corps to pursue a newly created program that opened flight training to Blacks. Following his selection, he trained at the Coffey School of Aeronautics at the Harlem Airport in Chicago, IL. After completing the Civilian Pilot Training program there, he transferred to the Tuskegee Institute, which already had an existing pilot training for civilians. Brother Hunter trained in the PT 17 Kaydet aircraft in primary training; BT 13 Valiant aircraft in basic training; and the AT 10 Wichita aircraft in advanced training. Brother Hunter won the distinction of being selected the cadet-commander of his class. Upon graduation on December 27, 1944, in the class of 44-J as a 2nd Lieutenant, Brother Hunter was assigned to the 477th Bombardment Group (Medium), stationed at Godman Field in Louisville, KY. The war ended before the bomber group could be deployed overseas. After the war’s end, despite the stellar accomplish- ments of the Tuskegee Airmen’s flying units, US civilian airlines and aircraft companies continued policies of segregation after the war and refused to hire Black aviators. Brother Hunter experienced this discrimination too. After leaving the Army Air Corps with a commercial pilot’s license following the war’s end in Nov 1945, he moved back to Chicago, IL for a short time and eventually returned to his hometown of Colorado Springs, Colorado. On 29 March 2007, Congress collectively awarded the Congressional Gold Medal to the Tuskegee Airmen at a ceremony in the US Capitol rotunda. The gold medal is displayed at the Smithsonian Institution and individual honorees received bronze replicas. The airfield where the airmen trained is now the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site. After marrying the former Minnie Ray Lane on April 8th 1950, Brother Hunter joined his father in managing the family’s mortuary firm and continues in the field today. He also became interested in real estate, earned his broker’s license in 1957 and opened a real estate office in 1961, which remained open until his retirement in 2001. Always a leader, Brother Hunter served on the origi- Brother Sam Hunter, 3rd row, far right, with Theta Psi Chapter, WV State U. 1939 Human Interest 63 55 Human Interest Omega’s Clarion Call nal Colorado Springs Head Start Board, the Colorado Springs Parks and Recreation Board, the Golf Commission, and the Board of Directors of the Colorado Springs Board of Realtors. He is the past president and current Life Member of the Colorado Springs NAACP, past president of the Colorado Springs Urban League and a past member of the Colorado Springs Urban Renewal Authority. He served as a volunteer reading tutor for elementary school children. Brother Hunter received the 2005 Colorado College Diversity Award as an advocate for equality in housing and contributions to the community, business, education and civic activities in Colorado Springs, Colorado. In 2004, he received the NAACP Living Legends Award for civil rights in the Colorado Springs, Colorado community. An active 33rd degree Mason in the Scottish Rite, he is a Past Grandmaster of the Prince Hall Masons in Colorado and Jurisdiction; and Honorary Past Potentate of Kadesia Temple, #135, Colorado Springs. He is a member of the Pikes Peak Region Lodge #473 I.B.P.O. Elks of W. He is a lifetime member and trustee of Payne Chapel A.M.E. Church. Brother Hunter and Minnie Ray have three children, Jocelyn Elaine Bailey, Carol Anne Hunter and Samuel C. Hunter III; and two grandchildren, Keisha Bailey and Kory Bailey. Brother Hunter counts marrying Minnie Ray and together raising three wonderful children as his proudest accomplishment and his greatest blessing. While a member of Denver’s Chi Phi Chapter, Brother Hunter attended the 8th District Representative installation ceremony conducted by Executive Director Harold Cook for Dr. William A. Bowers in 1973. During the socializing that followed the ceremony, Brother Hunter spoke to Executive Director Cook about starting a chapter in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Having already done the legwork of contacting the nine locally active Omega Men, Brother Hunter organized this stalwart group, completed the necessary paperwork, collected the required funds and mailed the request for charter to International Headquarters on June 7, 1974. 56 64 Brother Sam Hunter, 2nd row, center, with his crew in front of his B25 Medium Bomber, 1944 While waiting for the official charter to return, the first informal meeting of Omega Men in Colorado Springs, Colorado occurred on September 14, 1974. The first official meeting of the newly designated Xi Pi Chapter occurred on Oct 5, 1974 with Brother Willie M. Bratcher elected as the Chapter’s first Basileus, Brother Samuel Hunter elected as the Chapter’s 1st Vice Basileus and Chaplain, and Brother Harold Clay elected as the Chapter’s 1st Keeper of Records and Seal. On that memorable Founders Banquet of Nov 16, after viewing a newly created DVD movie of major milestones in Brother Hunter’s life, he and Minnie Ray came forward to receive tokens of respect, love and appreciation from the Xi Pi Chapter family; a pink and green bouquet of roses for Mrs. Hunter, a 60-year member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, and a shadow box full of mementos from Brother Hunter’s life. The Brothers stood and applauded as one man acknowledging the debt owed, the gratitude felt and the keen affection for Mrs. Hunter and Brother Hunter, Jr., Xi Pi Chapter’s Bridge Builder. WYF Human Interest Human Interest Omega’s Clarion Call Brother Floyd Calvin Lewis, III– holding the shield Epsilon Pi Chapter Honoring One of Our Own Honoring One of Our Own in time. Brother Lewis was not just given his position The thoroughly immersed Brothers of Epsilon Pi The thoroughly immersed Brothers of Epsilon Pi of The Psi Phi Chapter honored one of its’ own, Brother Floyd Calbecause of Chapter his legacy and Omega hard work in the commuFraternity Incorporated honored one of its’ own (Brother Floyd Calvin Lewis, III– holding the vin Lewis, III, on Saturday, February 9, 2008. Brother nity, it was givenIIIbecause hea has earned the respect shield), on Saturday, February 9, 2008. Brother Floyd Calvin Lewis, has been fraternal Floyd Calvin Lewis, IIIorganization has been a fraternal member andHe admiration not onlyresident his fellow officers and city member of this for the past fifteen years. has been aoflifelong of the of this organization forinthe past he fifteen years. He has and city (Chester), which has pledged to protect serve asbut a law official. PA as well. officials, the enforcement residents of Chester, Brother Lewis has been a member of the Chester city police force since 1973, following in the been a lifelong resident of the city (Chester, PA), in of histofather (Floyd Lewis, Lewis has served the police force in several which hefootsteps has pledged protect and serve as Jr.). a lawBrother enBrother Lewisnarcotics definitely adheres to the Four Cardinal capacities (patrolman, crime prevention officer, juvenile officer, officer, D.A.R.E. forcement official. Brother Lewis has been a member Principles ofthat Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, educator, Patrol Sergeant, Detective Sergeant, and Patrol Major), has enabled him to reach of the Chester city police force since 1973, following heights rarely achieved by a police officer in such asand short periodwhich of time. Within a six month Uplift, guide and defines the character of in the footsteps of his father Floyd Lewis, Jr. span, Brother Lewis was not only appointed as Deputy of Police in AugustBrother 2007, but he is an alumourChief illustrious organization. Lewis was later named Chief of Police in on December 26, 2007 by Chester City Mayor, Wendell ni of both Penn State (Associates Degree in Business) also served as Chief of Police at one point in time. Brother Lewis was not just Brother Butler, Lewis who has served the police force in several and Cheney State University (Bachelor of Science given his position, because of his legacy and capacities including patrolman, crime prevention of-hard work in the community, but because he has Degree). Hisand commitment to but the the cityresiof Chester, PA earned the respect and admiration of not only his fellow officers city officials, ficer, juvenile officer, narcotics officer, D.A.R.E. edudents of Chester as well. continues to be demonstrated by his diligent work with cator, Patrol Sergeant, Detective Sergeant, and Patrol the Fraternal Order of Police, Penn. Crime and DelinMajor. This hasBrother enabled him definitely to reach heights Lewis adheresrarely to the Four Cardinal Principles (Manhood, Scholarquency, Crime Prevention Association and the Chester Uplift) whichperiod guide of and defines the character of our illustrious organiachievedship, by aPerseverance, police officerand in such as short City Curfew Committee his work zation.a six Brother an alumni of was bothnot Penn State (Associates Degree in and Business) andas a Deacon at time. Within monthLewis span,isBrother Lewis Cheney State University (Bachelor of Science Degree). His commitment to Church. the city of Chester the Community Baptist Epsilon Pi Chapter is only appointed as Deputy Chief of Police in August continues to be demonstrated by his diligent work with the Fraternal Order of Police, Penn. proud that Brother Lewis continues to be a shining ex2007, but he was named Chief of Prevention Police on DeCrime andlater Delinquency, Crime Assoc. and the Chester City Curfew Committee, and ampleEpsilon of the true foundation of our beloved cember his 26, work 2007 as byaChester, City Mayor, Wendell Deacon PA at the Community Baptist Church. Pi Chapter of The Omega Psi Fraternity in faith, family, and community. Phi Fraternity shouldatbeone proud that Brother Lewis continues to be a shining examButler, who also servedIncorporated as Chief of Police point ple of the true foundation of our beloved fraternity. “faith, family, and community”. Human Interest 65 57 Human Interest Omega’s Clarion Call Rho Gamma Gamma Chapter Purple & Gold Gospel Explosion 2007 By Brother Lemarr “Speedy” Ketchens Chicago, IL- Rho Gamma Gamma Chapter, in conjunction with the Omega Uplift Foundation, held its Second Annual Purple & Gold Gospel Explosion. The event was held Saturday, November 10, 2007 at Christ Universal Temple. Doors opened at 5:00 pm with the following artists: Shekinah Glory Ministry, DeWayne Woods, Mt. Pisgah Junior Sensationals, St. Ailbe's Children Choir and the Mt. Calvary Baptist Church Puppet Ministry. The opening act was the St. Ailbe’s Childrens Choir, which was full and delightful. The Mt. Pisgah Junior Sensationals were just that, sensational. It was amazing to listen to seven women produce the sound of a 40member choir. The Mt. Calvary Puppet Ministry was a nice addition and it was entertaining for the youth in attendance. Shekinah Glory Ministries brought everyone to their feet in praise. DeWayne Woods closed the night out with selections that kept the crowd on their feet and very pleased. Although the venue could have held an additional 1000-1500, the concert was well attended. It is good to see people praising the Lord and enjoying good music. This was a very good family outing and should be an addition for all the members of our glorious organization. The E\emcee, radio personality Daryl King, was awesome as usual because she always keeps the crowd involved and enthused. Kudos to the Gospel Explosion Committee and its Chair, Brother Byron Trimble. This is a “Labor of Love” was his battle cry this year. It is a labor of love because it involves long hours, plenty of radio spots, CAN-TV spots, and a host of other meticulous entities. Much love to Brother Trimble and the Gospel Explosion Committee. 58 66 Sigma Omega Chapter Spreads Christmas Cheer Chicago, IL-On Saturday, December 1, 2007 the Brothers of Sigma Omega Chapter partnered with the Salvation Army and the Ada S. McKinley Foundation to deliver Christmas trees to needy families on Chicago, IL’s South Side. The men of Omega gathered at Salvation Army community center in the Englewood neighborhood to help unload and distribute a truckload of Christmas trees that were donated to the center by the Ada S. McKinley Foundation. The Brothers assisted families with picking out the right tree and then packing the trees in their cars to be taken to their homes for decoration and display. Altogether, one hundred and twenty-five trees were given away. The community was very grateful for the donation and the Brothers of Sigma Omega Chapter were pleased to be of service. The Chapter has started to look into the possibility of future projects and programs with the Englewood community Salvation Army center. Omicron Alpha Alpha Chapter Celebrates its 27th Anniversary By Brother James E. Davis Pontiac, MI – A celebration, reclamation and memorialization was the triple theme of Omicron Alpha Alpha Chapter during its 27th Anniversary Luncheon held recently at the Marriott Centerpoint, Pontiac, MI. Attended by over forty Brothers, the luncheon was planned to rejuvenate and enhance the true spirit of brotherhood in the Chapter. Keynote speaker for the occasion was Brother John S. Epps, former Executive Director of the Fraternity. His message was informative, inspirational and challenging. He recalled how the Chapter rose from infancy to become the premier Chapter in the 10th District. He was a frequent guest and supporter at our affairs and was always there when we needed him. Human Interest Omega’s Clarion Call Human Interest Brother James E. Davis, one of the Chapter members, was the second presenter who chronicled the rich heritage of the Chapter. Fourteen Brothers comprised the charter members. They were Brothers Ernest Perry, Harold Davis, Luther Blue, John Poe, Jim Davis, Hugh Jackson, James E. Johnson, Madison Smith, Rev. Norman Osborne, Quinton Ross, Ruther Haynes, Leon Smith, Dexter Bussey and J. Carl McNeary. A new tradition was born when the group held its first Annual Scholarship Benefit Dinner Dance in January of 1982. It became the Chapter’s main fundraiser and can boast that each affair we welcomed representatives from the Supreme Council. Another first for any Chapter was to have the presence of four past Grand Basilei plus the then current Grand Basileus at its yearly social event. Special emphasis was placed on the noteworthy heritage of several Chapter members. Brother David Williams was cited for being one of the original Tuskegee Airmen, Brother George Hedgespeth for being a successful heart transplant recipient and for being named the first African-American President of the Rotary Club in Birmingham, MI, Brother Leo Bowman for recently being appointed the first African-American Oakland County Circuit Court Judge and Brother Eugene Rogers, MD for serving as the President of the North Oakland Chapter of the NAACP. These are only a sample of the caliber of men the Chapter has attracted over the years. Brothers Of Nu Chi Chapter Lend A Hand At The City Hall By Brother Andrew Bailey The Doris Davis Helping Hand Organization in E. St. Louis, IL sponsors a toy give away each year. The Rev Doris Davis, chair and founder of this organization, gives toys and a free dinner to those in need on Christmas Day. This event is held at E. St. Louis City Hall each year from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, which calls for the help of many volunteers. The volunteers transfer the toys to the City Hall site; food is then delivered and served. Many hours are devoted to bringing this program to life. The volunteers helped pass out toys to the children and 2007’s volunteers included the men of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., the Brothers of Nu Chi Chapter. Those Brothers were Mell Holland and Robert Sallett who helped distribute toys that were donated. Brother Michael Bobbitt provided the Christmas music that filled the air. Nu Chi Chapter looks forward to providing these services to the needy in the community for 2008 Christmas season. Rho Delta Delta Chapter Continues To Be Active On The Campus Of TROY University Honored during the Memorial Service which climaxed the luncheon were the three Brothers who have entered Omega Chapter since our Chapter was issued May 19, 1980. The first was Brother James Petteway, M.D. in September 1992. He was a genuine Omega man and an inspiration to all he met. The second was Brother Arthur Williams in August 2002. He was a stalwart member of the community as a minister and an educator. Brother Richard Craig was memorialized in April 2006. He was a visionary educatory of great intellect, fortitude and wisdom. The celebration ended with the singing of the Omega Hymn. Brothers challenged themselves to work for greater achievements in the future and perpetuate our proud and enduring heritage. Human Interest By Brother Timothy Huffman Brothers of Rho Delta Delta Chapter 59 67 Human Interest Omega’s Clarion Call The Brothers of the Rho Delta Delta Chapter are very blessed to start the spring of 2008 off to a great start. During the month of January 2008, the Chapter participated in the Greek Retreat. During the retreat, our delegates were able to gain valuable information in regards to leadership, duties of the delegates and communication skills. The Chapter also participated in the All Greek Step tease that was sponsored by the University Activities Council and NPHC. The Chapter also attended the Undergraduate Summit for all Omega undergrad chapters that was held in Atlanta, GA. During the summit, we were presented with topics such as Greek unity, spiritual growth, membership selection, financial issues, etc. Lastly, we continued with our Q Read program at Troy Elementary and our Langston Hughes Poetry night. In regards to campus involvement, we were active in the MLK ceremony, the African American Leadership conference, UAC dodge ball event, and the kickoff of black history month event sponsored by UAC. We look forward to a very prosperous spring 2008 semester. President. On today, January 15, 2008, while on Tulip Street, off M.L.K. Street in Jackson, MS, Brother Bernard, along with the Association President and other seniors in the community, conducted a protest in reference to better housing codes and more police presence in the Georgetown Community. One 84-year-old senior, who was present at the protest, advised that every night someone is at her door trying to see if she left a door unlocked. The Clarion Ledger reporter asked her what she does when that happens, and she replied that she just lies in her bed and is quite as possible. This woman lives in fear day-in and day-out. On this day, the response the protesters received from the County was more than commendable. The Hinds County Sheriff, Malcolm McMillin and District 3 County Supervisor Peggy Hobson Calhoun, where both present and provided inmates to clean debris along the streets and lawns of abandon houses in the Georgetown Community. Let us all hope and pray that people like Brother Bernard can continue to pressure our elected officials to provide a safe environment for our defenseless seniors and youth. University of Maryland Eastern Shore Dedicates Hazel Hall Lobby In The Name Of Brother Russell Stansbury Georgetown, MS Community Uplift Brother Robert V. Hooker, Sr. By Brother Alfonso N. Cornish Brother Lee Bernard, Jr. with community resident. Commendations are extended to Brother Lee Bernard,Bro. Russell Stansbury (8th from left) and Members of Pi Epsilon Chapter at Dedication Ceremony Jr. and the Georgetown Community Neighborhood Brother Russell Stansbury (8th from left) and Members of Association, where Brother Bernard serves as Vice University of Maryland Eastern Shore Dedicates Hazel Hall Lobby in Pi Epsilon Chapter at Russell Dedication Ceremony the Name of Bro. Stansbury 60 68 By Alfonso N. Cornish Human Interest On Friday, December 21, 2007, President Thelma Thompson and members of her staff dedicated the lobby of Hazel Hall on the campus of the University of Maryland Eastern Omega’s Clarion Call Human Interest Hartford County, MD-On Friday, December 21, 2007, President Thelma Thompson and members of her staff dedicated the lobby of Hazel Hall on the campus of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore to Brother Russell Stansbury. On May 3, 1947, Brother Stansbury, along with 13 of his fellow friends and scholars, chartered Pi Epsilon Chapter on the campus of then Maryland State College. Stansbury is the surviving Brother from that charter line. This past May, Brother Stansbury and the Chapter celebrated their 60th anniversary with a weekend of celebration and commemoration. In his very emotional remarks before family, church members, fraternity brothers and friends, Brother Stansbury said, I never expected such a prestigious honor. He went on to say he only wished his wife, mother and father could have attended. President Thompson lauded the 1947 graduate, described as a serious but gregarious student who enjoyed jazz and Negro League baseball when he was not attending classes, studying, working in the dining hall, engaging in student activities or playing on the college’s football team. She thanked him for all his contributions to humankind and the University. During the ceremony, Brother Al Cornish read a proclamation from Hartford County Executive, James Smith declaring December 21, 2007 as Russell Stansbury Day in Hartford County, Maryland. Brother Stansbury, a native of Hartford County, has a very long and distinguished personal and professional career. He served on the Hartford County’s Board of Elections for 16 years; being first appointed under former Governor, William Donald Schaefer, reappointed under former Governor Parris Glendening, one term under former Governor Robert Ehrlich and the current term of Governor Martin O’Malley. During that time, he served a number of years as Election Board President. Before working on the Election Board, Brother Stansbury devoted 39 years of teaching to Hartford County Public Schools at Harve de Grace, Aberdeen and Fallston where he taught Industrial Arts in both segregated and integrated schools. He began his illustrious teaching career at the Harve de Grace Colored High School. He also served as President of the Colored Teachers Association and his school’s athletic coach from 1947 – 49. Even though the school did not have its own track and field facilities, his team won the state track and field championship. He still found time to commute on the weekends to New York University where he received his Masters in Education in 1956. Brother Stansbury’s contributions as a teacher were rewarded in September 2004, when he was inducted into the Hartford County Education Hall of Fame. His wife, the late Mildred Stansbury, a former English teacher and first African American woman elected as a member of the Harve de Grace City Council, was also a member of the Hartford County Education Hall of Fame, inducted in 2002. He has dedicated his life to advancing the lives of people around him. His contributions to Hartford County’s heritage earned him the label of Hartford‘s Living Treasure by the County Council in March of 2002. Because of his countless life long contributions to humankind, the members of the Pi Epsilon Chapter, at their 60th Anniversary celebration, established a $65,000 scholarship in his name and that of the late Brother Robert Dowery, the Chapter’s long time advisor. Brother Stansbury has lived the life of a true Omega Man demonstrating everyday the four cardinal principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance and Uplift. He is a NAACP Life Member and Omega Life Member. He remains an active member of Iota Nu Chapter, which is another chapter that he helped charter in 1970. In addition to serving as Basileus for two different terms, he has served in other elected positions and has chaired or served as a member of many committees. His community and professional affiliations include Maryland State Retired Teachers, National Education Retired Teachers, Lung Association of North Central Maryland, Treasurer of the Harve de Grace Consoli- Human Interest 69 61 Human Interest Omega’s Clarion Call dated PTA, and 63 years member of St. James AME Church. African-American commander in this unit’s lineage since it was constituted May 15, 1917. A former student and fellow Omega man, Brother Emil Brother Lieutenant Colonel Coleman was previously Cromwell stated, when he taught me in high school, assigned as the Headquarters Commandant and Depuwe gave him the nickname of the rock. Brother Stansty Army Element Commander for United States Cenbury has lived up to that nickname and remains today a tral Command providing critical life support to the headquarters staff at MacDill Air Force rock in his community, fraternity and alma mater! Brother Lieutenantwar-fighting Colonel Matthew Coleman Base in Tampa, Florida and the Command Forward Commanding The Troops Headquarters in Doha, Qatar to support wars in both Brother Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Coleman Iraq and Style Afghanistan. Lieutenant Colonel Coleman Xi Xi Chapter was the first African American to serve in this capacity Commanding The Troops Xi Xi Chapter Style since USCENTCOM stood up as a Standing Joint Task force Headquarters (SJTFHQs) in 1983. Colonel Matthew Coleman g The Troops pter Style Brother ColemanChange Change Of Of Command Command Brother Coleman Theta Omega Chapter Announces The 4th Annual Willie Smith Step Off Competition Winners By Brother Alfonso N. Cornish, Chapter Editor (Add Shield) Brother LTC Coleman Fort Knox, KY – Brother Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Coleman, United States Army and member of Xi Xi Chapter, took command of the 2nd Battalion, 46th Infantry Regiment (Basic Combat Training), 194th Armored Brigade on June 20, 2007 at Fort Knox, Kentucky. He is its 22nd battalion commander and the first African-American commander in this unit’s lineage since it was constituted May 15, 1917. Brother Lieutenant Colonel Coleman was previously assigned as the Headquarters 1st Place Indian Trail Elementary School Commandant and Deputy Army Element Commander for United States Central Command providing critical life support to the war-fighting headquarters staff at MacDill Louisville, KY - Over 500 people enjoyed an afternoon Place Indian Trail Elementary Schoolin Doha, Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida and the1stCommand Forward Headquarters listening to the rhythmic sounds and watching precise Qatar to support wars in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Colonel wasGreater the movementLieutenant of some of the top stepColeman teams in the Brother LTC Coleman first African American to serve in this capacity since USCENTCOM stoodTheta up as a Metro Louisville, KY area during Omega ChapBrother LTC Coleman Standing Joint Task force Headquarters (SJTFHQs) in 1983. ter’s 4th Annual Willie Smith Step Off Competition Fort Knox, KY – Brother Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Coleman, United States ArmyStates and member el Matthew Coleman, United Armyof Xi Xi nd th Chapter, took command the 2nd Battalion, 46th Ind of the 2 Battalion, 46 of Infantry Regiment fantry Regiment (Basic Combat Training), 194th Argade mored on June 20, 2007 at Fort Knox, Brigade on June 20, 2007 at Fort Knox, Kenr andtucky. the first commander He isAfrican-American its 22nd battalion commander and the first May 15, 1917. 62 70 eviously assigned as the Headquarters held on Saturday, December 1st at Moore Traditional High School. Brother Vincel Anthony served as the Master of Ceremony and kept the afternoon moving with his humor and quick-witted introductions of each team. This competition just gets better every year, said Human Interest Omega’s Clarion Call Human Interest Brother Lee Bowman, Step Off Coordinator. He went on to say, It never ceases to amaze me the discipline and creativity of these young people as well as the amount of time that is required to put together some of these routines! Schools competed in three categories - Elementary - Middle and High. Prizes were awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd in each category. 11 teams participated with the following teams being victorious: Elementary Category: 1st Indian Trail; Middle School Category: 1st Conway Middle School; 2nd Noe Middle School and 3rd Myers Middle School; High School Category: 1st DuPont Manual High School, 2nd Eastern High School, 3rd Henderson County High School. The first place winner in the Elementary school division received a trophy and a 250.00 cash award. In the Middle school division 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners all received trophies while 1st and 2nd place winners also received 250.00 and 100.00 cash awards respectively. In the high school division the 1st, 2nd place and 3rd place winners all received trophies while the 1st and 2nd place winners received 750.00 and 350.00 cash awards respectively. All additional proceeds will be used to fund scholarships presented annually by the Theta Omega Chapter to local high school students. Zeta Tau Chapter Celebrates Its 50th Anniversary By Brother G. D. Taylor Honorees of Zeta Tau Chapter are featured on Stage with 1st Vice Grand Basilesu, Brother Carl A. Blunt. Pasadena, CA – October 8, 2007 – Three founders of Zeta Tau Chapter and one pioneering member were honored at the Pasadena, CA Civic Center. The honorees were Brother Art C. Waters of Acadia, CA, Brother Oscar W. Harris of Pasadena, CA, Brother J.B. Singleton of Rancho Mirage, CA and Brother Eugene L. Quishenberry of Pasadena City, CA. Councilman Chris Holden greeted more than 100 guests from greater Pasadena, CA, Los Angeles, CA, Phoenix, AZ and Houston, TX. Brother Carl Blunt, 1st Vice-Grand Basileus, and Brother Keith Youngblood, Southern California Area Representative, were among the dignitaries in attendance. Brother Blunt brought formal greetings from the Grand Council in Atlanta, GA and quoted from an article written about the Chapter 50 years ago. Maleta Wilson, Vice President of the NPHC-IE, also a member of Delta Sigma Theta, was the keynote speaker. She conveyed to the audience the need to become contagious carriers of positivism to our youth and communities. The founding members’ stories are a testament to how they have lived and internalized the cardinal principles of Omega, said Brother Larry Hammond, Vice– Basileus of Zeta Tau Chapter. Brother Art Waters, Esq., from Chicago, Illinois, was the original Chaplain of Zeta Tau Chapter. In 1949, he graduated from the University of Illinois, Champaign/Urbana and joined Omega by way of Pi Psi Chapter. He is also a graduate of Southwestern Law School, 1964. He is the father of one son and two daughters; six grand children; and five great-grand children. Brother Waters, Esq. has a tax accountant business. His message to his children was, are you satisfied with the grades that you have received and does this represent your very best effort? Brother Oscar W. Harris, Orange, New Jersey, inducted into Pi Chapter, 1945, graduated from Morgan State College in 1948. He met the love of his life, Jean, at Morgan State and married after three years of dating. Now they have been married fifty-nine years. Brother Human Interest 63 71 Human Interest Omega’s Clarion Call Harris and his wife moved to California with their son Steve in 1954 and his employment began with teaching physical education at Wendell Phillips High School. He also worked with the City of Los Angeles in the Parks and Recreation Department. To know Brother Harris and his wife Jean is to know two happy people. His lessons learned from the Fraternity were, he said, Friendship! Treat people the way that you want to be treated. And value education, all good things come from education. Brother J. B. Singleton, III, D.D.S., a former Pasadena, CA dentist, was born in Nashville, TN. He attended the public schools of Nashville, TN and received a bachelor’s degree from Lincoln University, PA. in 1948. A third generation dentist and graduate of the MeHarry Medical College, Brother Singleton served the country as a Captain in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956, serving on the staff of the Pacific State Hospital. He entered private practice in Pasadena, CA in 1958. Dentistry was his love, but was second to his wife Shirley. Other activities included, community service, board membership of the Pasadena branch of the NAACP, board membership of the Pasadena Chapter of the National Urban League and Omega Man of the Year, 1965. Brother Singleton’s hero was his father. The early encounters with his father shaped his view of life. His father said education is the great leveler and equalizer; it gives you the strength and confidence to stand tall; you have to have a backbone to walk straight. Brother Singleton is a strong believer in education and family. Navy. After serving his term in the Navy, he chose to retire in the Los Angeles, CA area. There he met his beloved wife Nancy, entered marriage, and started a family. Brother Quishenberry completed college at Los Angeles State College. He has had a successful career with LA County, CA. A confident and proud man, Brother Quishenberry pledged Omega in February of 1959. Since then, he has remained committed to its ideals and has held numerous leadership positions including Basileus, Vice-Basileus and Keeper of Records and Seal. In community service, he is a church Trustee, life member of the NAACP and has served as president of the local Pasadena, CA chapter. When asked what had been his greatest moment with Omega, he said, I have been financial every since I joined the Fraternity! Local Businessman, Chairman of the Zeta Tau Foundation, Inc. and Board of Advisors, which sponsored the event, Brother Edward Ellis, welcomed the guests by giving them a pop quiz. How many of you remember who won the academy award for best actor two years ago? How many of you remember who won the Heisman Trophy last year? To each of these questions there was pause. He then said to the group, I’ll bet that you know the teacher that most inspired you! You remember the person in your church or in your neighborhood that you looked up to. And that is the significance of this event tonight, he said. It is remembering those who have made a difference to us in our want to live the good life. Brother Eugene Quishenberry, Indianapolis, Indiana; attended Purdue University, 1946 at age 16 as a pharmacy student. Science was the one profession, other than teaching or preaching, that made sense to him. Brother Quishenberry also wanted to play basketball along with his studies in pharmacy. Confident of his athletic ability and academic record, he knew he could play the game. When he arrived for tryouts, he was met at the door and told that his services were not needed. He finished his second year at Purdue and entered the 64 72 Human Interest Omega’s Clarion Call Human Interest True Friends In The Motherland! By Stanley M. Reed Sr. Sigma Omega Chapter Initiates Seven in 2007 Chicago, IL – On September 29, 2007, the Sigma Omega Chapter welcomed seven new Brothers into the fold of Omega. Dubbed Double 07, Brothers Michael Mitchell, Brian J. Packer, Elliott Fourte, MD, William Bill Bonner, Keith White, MD, Zebedee Ducre and William Tyler are educators, physicians and businessmen from around the Chicago-land area. The initiation ceremony occurred at the Chi Lambda Lambda Chapter house and was presided over by the Illinois State Representative, 10th District MSP Chairman and various members of the Chapter. Pictured left to right are LCDR Darryl Wooley, MAJ Andrelle Evans, LTC Eric Shaw, SGM Darryl Haley, COL Clarence Meade, LTC Arnold Pleasant, MAJ Stanley Reed, LTC Lorenzo Riddick Not present: LTC Joe Durr, MAJ Carlton Phelps, SSG Tharus Nixon Cairo, Egypt- Behold how good and how pleasant it is for Brothers to dwell together in unity. This statement comes to mind as men of Omega gathered together on November 17, 2007 to celebrate our Founder’s Day in Cairo, Egypt. These Brothers were assembled from many parts of the country to participate in a military exercise called Bright Star. Bright Star is a military exercise comprised of multi-national forces training together in order to build partnerships and gain a greater understanding of our go-to-war roles. Enthusiastic and thoroughly immersed in the true Omega spirit, these new Brothers will help to carry on the legacy of this historical chapter. They are already working diligently on some of the Chapter’s signature events such as its annual Founder’s Day Banquet and the Mardi Gras Ball. Expect to hear and see great things from these young Brothers as they grow and flourish within Omega. First Annual SMU Miss Purple and Gold Pageant The ability for Brothers to come together and fellowship in austere conditions depicts how Omega displays the true meaning of Friendship is Essential to the Soul. Wherever the opportunity presented itself, we were there to accept it. Whether eating Meal Ready-to-eat The Brothers of Nu Kappa Chapter along with participants together, taking pictures at the Pyramids, or just sharing a laugh at the workplace, we maximized our opǡ portunity to be together. We were true FRIENDS in Dallas, TX- The Brothers of Nu Kappa Chapter spon the Motherland! soredǤ Ǥ their first annual Miss Purple and Gold Pageant Human Interest 65 73 on the campus of Southern Methodist University on April 13, 2008 in Dallas, TX. The program was envisioned to reestablish Nu Kappa Chapter as a viable organization on the expansive SMU campus. atthew Coleman ps The pageant process included an application and Sunday rehearsals. Contestants competed in five different categories to include casual wear, career wear, formal wear, talent and interview. Each contestant wore clothing from her own closet during the pageant. The winners of the Pageant included Sibongile Mlambo, 1st Place, Erica Rhodes, 2nd Place and Shay Taylor, 3rd Place. Special Awards were also given to include Best Interview, Erica Rhodes, Ms. Style, Sibongile Mlambo and Ms. Quetie-pie, Ms. Shay Taylor and Alessandra Brown. The Brothers of Nu Kappa Chapter extend their thanks and appreciation to all who volunteered their time and efforts in support of their annual Miss Purple and Gold Pageant. Brother LTC Coleman eman, United States Army talion, 46th Infantry Regiment 0, 2007 at Fort Knox, African-American commander ed as the Headquarters nited States Central headquarters staff at MacDill rd Headquarters in Doha, ant Colonel Coleman was the lace Indian Trail Elementary School NTCOM stood up as a . 74 Manhood Scholarship Perseverance Uplift Honoring One of Our Own The thoroughly immersed Brothers of Epsilon Pi Chapter of The Omega Psi Ph Fraternity Incorporated honored one of its’ own (Brother Floyd Calvin Lewis, III– holding th shield), on Saturday, February 9, 2008. Brother Floyd Calvin Lewis, III has been a fraternal member of this organization for the past fifteen years. He has been a lifelong resident of the city (Chester), in which he has pledged to protect and serve as a law enforcement official. Brother Lewis has been a member of the Chester city police force since 1973, following in th footsteps of his father (Floyd Lewis, Jr.). Brother Lewis has served the police force in severa capacities (patrolman, crime prevention officer, juvenile officer, narcotics officer, D.A.R.E. educator, Patrol Sergeant, Detective Sergeant, and Patrol Major), that has enabled him to reac heights rarely achieved by a police officer in such as short period of time. Within a six month span, Brother Lewis was not only appointed as Deputy Chief of Police in August 2007, but he was later named Chief of Police in on December 26, 2007 by Chester City Mayor, Wendell Butler, who also served as Chief of Police at one point in time. Brother Lewis was not just given his position, because of his legacy and hard work in the community, but because he has earned the respect and admiration of not only his fellow officers and city officials, but the res WYF Omega’s Clarion Call ST. PETERSBURG TIMES Florida apologizes for role in slavery By Shannon Colavecchio-Van Sickler, Times Staff Writer Published Wednesday, March 26, 2008 10:27 PM TALLAHASSEE — More than 140 years after a former Florida governor described Africans as "a wild barbarian to be tamed and civilized," the Legislature on Wednesday apologized for the state's role in sanctioning slavery. The House and Senate approved a resolution expressing "profound regret for the involuntary servitude of Africans, and calling for reconciliation among all Floridians." There was no discussion before the unanimous voice votes, but the reading of the resolution — which described how slaves' ears were nailed to posts during whippings — brought some lawmakers, including Tampa Sen. Arthenia Joyner, to tears. "It was painful," said Joyner, a Democrat and black caucus member. "I tried to imagine myself under those circumstances. I mean, I know how incensed I got in the '60s just knowing I couldn't get into a movie!" Gov. Charlie Crist, affectionately dubbed "Florida's first black governor" by some black lawmakers, visited the 76 Senate chamber to watch the vote. In the House, Speaker Marco Rubio, R-West Miami, took the unusual step of ordering all members to their seats. And in a rare appearance, Senate President Ken Pruitt, R-Port St. Lucie, sat at Rubio's side. "This was as sincere and as meaningful an apology as could be given," Pruitt said. "It was important for the words to stand on their own." The resolution did not address reparations. Crist appeared to be open to such efforts if slave descendancy could be established. "Certainly, it's something you'd like to be able to do," he said. But one black lawmaker, Sen. Al Lawson, said reparations are unlikely because they are controversial and they would cost the state so much. "But I appreciate the governor's comment," said Lawson, D-Tallahassee. As news of the vote spread Thursday, public reaction on the St. Petersburg Times' Web site, tampabay.com, varied. Some readers accused lawmakers of "wasting" time and questioned why an apology was needed when all slave owners were dead. Others said it wasn't enough; reparations are in order. Some commended lawmakers, saying they hoped it would help heal society's racial strife. With Wednesday's vote, Florida joins five other states — Alabama, Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina and New Jersey — that have apologized for slavery. 62,000 slaves Florida's apology was initiated by Sen. Tony Hill, a longtime Democratic lawmaker and head of the black caucus, who worked with Pruitt for months on the matter. A union organizer from Jacksonville, Hill said he was inspired in part by the 2006 film Amazing Grace, which is based on the life of William Wilberforce, who fought to end the slave trade in the British Empire. Just before the Civil War, in 1860, there were nearly 62,000 slaves in Florida, 44 percent of the state population, and their subjugation was embedded in the culture. In a letter in 1861, former territorial governor Richard Keith Call described "persons of African descent" as "an animal, in the form of a man, possessing the great- 75 Omega’s Clarion Call est physical power & without one principle of his nature, one faculty of mind or feeling of heart, without spirit or pride of character, to enable him to regard slavery as a degradation." By the time of Call's letter, slaves had been in Florida for three centuries, starting in the late 1500s, when the Spanish used them to build forts. The British imported slaves to Florida between 1763 and 1783, and the coastline was a popular dock for ships carrying slaves intended for other states. But the practice grew significantly when Florida became a U.S. territory in the early 1800s. Plantation owners from Virginia, the Carolinas and other Southern states moved their operations — and their slaves — to Florida's cheaper land, primarily in the Panhandle. Wednesday, Old Capitol curator John Phelps recounted some of that history for senators, reading from historic documents, including Call's letter. He told senators about slave codes and laws from the 1820s that spelled out slave punishments, including having their ears nailed to posts while they stood for an hour and received "lashes on his or her bare back." More apologies? Legalized slavery ended in Florida after the Civil War with the approval of the 1868 state Constitution, but not until Wednesday did the state apologize. "I don't care about an apology for slavery maybe offending some people," Lawson said after the Senate vote. "It helps people to know where we've been and where we need to go." Still, some lawmakers worry the apology could open a flood of apologies to other groups, from women who previously couldn't vote to Indians whose land was taken. "I understand the zeal and the commitment of the president (Pruitt)," said Sen. Jim King, R-Jacksonville, who attended a segregated high school in St. Petersburg. "But the case could be made for a whole bunch of other things. What about the Indians or the Japanese in WWII who we put in internment camps?" Times staff writer Steve Bousquet contributed to this report. Shannon Colavecchio-Van Sickler can be reached at [email protected] or (850) 224-7263. 76 The resolution WHEREAS, African slavery was sanctioned and enforced through laws enacted by Florida's first Territorial Legislative Council in 1822, and WHEREAS, the Council and its successors did, over four decades, construct a legal framework that perpetuated African slavery in one of its most brutal and dehumanizing forms, and WHEREAS, this legal framework included such lawful punishments as the following: "That any negro or other slave duly convicted of robbery & or burglary shall suffer death or have his or her ears nailed to posts and there stand for one hour and receive 30 lashes on his or her bare back at the discretion of the court," and WHEREAS, in 1827, free Africans were denied the right to vote and in later years were, by law, so repressed, restricted, and harassed that by 1850 most had been driven from Florida, and WHEREAS, African slavery was entrenched within the plantation culture of Middle Florida to such a degree that by the year 1860, 73 percent of the total population of Leon County were slaves, and WHEREAS, there were early political leaders in Florida who advocated a vigorous defense of slavery, and WHEREAS, the Florida Legislature has identified grave injustices inflicted upon African slaves and freemen by the state, and WHEREAS, even though the laws permitting such injustices have been repealed, it is important that the Legislature express profound regret for the shameful chapter in this state's history and, in so doing, promote healing and reconciliation among all Floridians, NOW, THEREFORE, Be It Resolved by the Senate of the State of Florida, the House of Representatives Concurring: That the Legislature expresses its profound regret for Florida's role in sanctioning and perpetuating involuntary servitude upon generations of African slaves. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature calls for healing and reconciliation among all residents of the state. 77 OMEGA CHAPTER Omega Chapter Omega’s Clarion Call Brother Andrew AJ Joseph Wiggins Enters Omega Chapter Brother Andrew Joseph Wiggins, who is better known as “AJ,” was born to the union of James H. and Clara T. Wiggins on May 13, 1935 in Centreville, Illinois. His parents, brother L. Talifero and sister Ardella Shegog preceded him in death. Brother Wiggins confessed Christ at an earl age and served as a life long member of the St. John MissionBrother Andrew ary Baptist Church. He was Joseph Wiggins educated in E. St. Louis School District #189. During High School at Lincoln Sr. High School, his musical and vocal abilities earned him a full scholarship to Arkansas Pine Bluff in 1956 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology. He was united in Holy Matrimony to Bessie Bernice Ivory on November 30, 1957. To this union two children were born. Brother Wiggins enjoyed working for the good of his community. He served the St. John Missionary Baptist Church as Financial Secretary for 25 years. He also served the New Salem Baptist District Association, Inc. as Financial Secretary and later as Chairman of Finance. While his friend and Omega, Brother Ron Carter, was the director of the Lincoln Sr. High School Jazz Band, Brother Wiggins served as Band Parent Treasurer for several years. He was initiated into the Omega on April 27, 1984 and was bestowed the prized honor of being named the Chapter’s Omega Man of the Year in 1985. He was elected President of the Centreville Library Board. The library was awarded several thousands of dollars in grant money under his leadership. It gave him great joy to know that this money would allow the library to further its commitment to the literacy of the citizens of Centreville, IL. Brother Wiggins completed his earthly assignment and reported for his new assignment with his heavenly Father on Friday, March 23, 2007. He leaves to cherish his 78 memory his loving wife of 49 years, Bessie B. Wiggins; two children, Angela [ Rev. Allen ] Watson of Baldwin ,Miss. , and Rev. Anthony [ Tracy ] Wiggins of Belleville, IL, sixteen grandchildren, great grandchildren and a host of other relatives, loved ones, and friends that will miss him dearly. Brother Dr. Starks J. Williams Omega Chapter Brother Dr. Starks J. Williams, 86, was a trailblazing physician. In 1954, as a pediatrician, he joined a clinic in the urban core of Kansas City, MO that was among the first African-American multi-specialty groups in the Country. The group included other well-known African-American physicians. Kansas Brother Dr. Starks J. City was rigidly segregated Williams when I came here, Brother Dr. Williams wrote in an As I See It column published in the year 2000 in The Kansas City Star. He was on staff at Kansas City's General Hospital No. 2 while it was integrated. Brother Dr. Williams entered Omega Chapter on Dec. 22 following a battle with cancer. He was an active member of Beta Omega Chapter in Kansas City, MO until his passing. He graduated from South Carolina State University with degrees in Chemistry, Biology and Physics. He later graduated with honors from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN. Racism and segregation limited opportunities for Black physicians to obtain an internship and residency training, said his wife, Elizabeth Williams. Brother Dr. Williams eventually interned in Chicago, IL and completed his residency in Nashville, TN. He set up Omega Chapter Omega’s Clarion Call Omega Chapter a private practice in Chicago, IL and successfully campaigned to integrate Chicago, IL area hospitals. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was stationed at Fort Carson in Colorado, where he was chief of pediatrics, before he came to Kansas City, MO. Elizabeth Williams said her husband treated thousands of children through his years as a pediatrician. Williams involved himself in the lives of his patients, she said. It was not uncommon for him to mentor his patients often when they came to his office. He asked to see their report cards, she said. He was interested in the holistic aspect of medicine. In order for a child to be completely healthy, they needed to have a wholesome home life and do well in school. In the 1970s, Brother Dr. Williams served as medical director for the newly organized Wayne Miner Neighborhood Health Center, now the Samuel U. Rodgers Community Health Center. He and other doctors worked at the center without pay until the agency was able to receive federal funding, said Elizabeth Williams. He remained an avid reader of history, especially the political content, Elizabeth Williams said. He would merge that into a dialogue for social change. It was evident in his medical practice and other activities. Brother Dr. Williams' community service continued when he was medical director for Missouri's Sickle Cell Anemia program. He also was medical director of the federal Head Start program for several states in the Midwest United States. He retired in December 2000 at age 80 and spent his remaining years traveling and working with groups, among them the Niles Home for Children. Brother Dr. Williams was a member of the Midwesterners Club, the National Conference of Christian and Jews, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and the National Urban League. His wife, five children and seven siblings survive him. Brother Bennie Bowman Omega Chapter By Brother Bryan K. Dirke Brother Bennie Bowman was born on January 24, 1926 in Spartanburg, SC. He entered Omega Chapter on January 2, 2008. He attended Carver High School in Spartanburg and after his senior year, he was drafted into the U.S. Navy. After serving his naBrother Bennie Bowman tion proudly during World War II, he enrolled at Allen University in Columbia, SC. Brother Bowman was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc, by way of Mu Sigma Chapter on April 13, 1949. He received his B.S. degree in Physical Education in 1950. While at Allen University, Brother Bowman met and married his lovely wife, Bessie Lena Johnson. After relocating to Columbus, OH, he worked at the local Defense Construction Supply Center for several years before becoming a clerk at the United States Postal Service. After retiring from the Postal Service in 1985, Brother Bowman started his own business, BYB Remodeling. Brother Bowman was an active and dedicated member of Mu Iota Chapter where he served as Basileus, Vice-Basileus and co-chaired the Christmas and Founder’s Day Banquets. He was also a dedicated member of the Mu Iota Chapter’s annual golf scholarship outing. Because of his dedicated service and commitment to the ideals and principles of Omega, he was honored over the years with the Omega Man of the Year award and several Brotherhood awards. Brother Bowman was a faithful member of Mt. Vernon Avenue A.M.E Church where he was Trustee Emeritus and a member of the Senior Usher Board. He was a mentor to many young men as well as other young people in the community. He was a fair and upfront man who will be truly missed. Let it be known to the Supreme Basileus of the Universe that Brother Bennie Bowman has entered Omega Chapter having fulfilled his duties to mankind and to Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Omega Chapter 79 Omega Chapter Omega’s Clarion Call Brother Earnest Lee Davis, USAF-Vietnam Veteran Chief Master Sergeant (CMSGT) Omega Chapter ABILENE TEXAS - Brother CMSGT Earnest L. Davis, USAF, died on active duty at Dyess AFB in Abilene Texas, 20, Dec 1983, at the age of 44. Brother CMSGT Davis graduated from Phyllis Wheatley High School in Hubbard, Texas, two years early as an "A" honor student. He enlisted in the USAF and served honorably for twenty-six years until his demise. His miliBrother CMSGT tary career led him to be asEarnest L. Davis signed to numerous places such as, Nebraska, Greenland, France, Thailand (Southwest Asia), California, England, and Texas. As a divorcee (in his later years), Brother CMSGT Davis continued to raise three children, Chequitha Rhnee Davis, Earnest Arvan Davis, and Eric Arness Davis as a single parent. He was not only a superior father and loved his beloved family who lived in Texas, he was a man who always walked with GOD. Brother CMSGT Davis was a humble humanitarian that had many talents who cared about every person he came in contact with during his life on earth. His civic, community, and national affiliations included: Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., Brown-Hill Church of Hubbard Texas, Free and Accepted Masons, and Hospice of Abilene, TX. Brother CMSGT Davis’military accomplishments included: Fuel Technology Degree from the Community College of the USAF; best at his job in the entire USAF (1979), best among USAF units in Europe (1978), the 15th Air Force (1982) and Senior Enlisted Manager of the year (1983). Brother CMSGT Davis academic accomplishments included: AA Degree in Psychology from Solano College, BA Degree in Sociology from Sonoma State College, MA Degree from Vanderbilt University, MA Degree from Chapman College in Education and working towards earning his PHD (part-time) from North Texas State University, Denton Texas (at the time of his 80 death). In addition to his accomplishments, he was an avid guitarist and had earned his private pilot license, Century 21 real-estate license and he received his teaching credentials. Brother CMSGT Davis had many talents, served people as well as having loved and served GOD. He was grounded like the salt of the earth. Now, he lives with GOD in heaven and his soul rests-in-peace (in a family plot) at the Valley View Cemetery located in Hubbard, Texas. Brother Frank R. Jackson, Jr. Enters Omega Chapter By Brother Al Cornish Louisville, KY: Funeral services for Brother Frank R. Jackson, Jr. were held on Saturday, December 29th at the Resthaven Chapel in Louisville, Kentucky. Brother Jackson entered Omega Chapter on Monday, December 24, 2007 at Christopher East Health Care Center in Louisville, Kentucky. He was a native of Birmingham, Alabama and received his undergradBrother Frank R. Jackson, Jr. uate degree from Alabama A&M University in Huntsville, Alabama and earned a graduate degree from Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, Kentucky. Brother Jackson was a retired public school administrator having served in his last assignment with the Jefferson County Public Schools as an Assistant Principal at DuPont Manual High School. He was active in his church, Harrods Creek Baptist Church, and his community, serving as past President of the Harrods Creek/Prospect Neighborhood Association. He was an active and faithful member of Omega, serving as Basileus of Theta Omega Chapter and was an active member of the Alabama A&M University National Alumni Association, Louisville, KY Chapter. Omega Chapter Omega’s Clarion Call Omega Chapter His parents, Reverend Frank R. Jackson, Sr. and Mrs. Susie Jackson and his wife, Joselyn McDowell Jackson, preceded him in death. He is survived by his daughter, Carol Lisa Taylor (John) of Houston, Texas; four granddaughters, Tiffany and Jessica Willie, Amanda and Madison Taylor all of Houston, Texas; his companion and caregiver, Mildred “Millie” Goodman and a number of cousins and other relatives. Brother Arthur J. Armstead, Sr. Brother Arthur J. Armstead, Sr., 80, a devout Christian, family man, scientist, educator, community leader, and gardener extraordinaire, made his transition into eternal life Friday, Nov. 3, 2006, at Sentara CarePlex Hospital, Hampton, VA. He was born to Henry Clay Armstead and Essie Ash Armstead on Nov. 25, 1925 in St. Stephens, Alabama. Brother Arthur J. Brother Armstead was the Armstead, Sr. sixth of eight children born to his parents, and the second son. He had been a resident of Hampton since 1948. Brother Armstead's early education took place in Alabama at St. Stephens Elementary and Junior High Schools, and he earned his high school diploma from Snow Hill Institute in Alabama. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Science and a Master of Arts degree in Administration and Supervision from Hampton Institute. He earned certificates in gas chromatography and infrared spectroscopy from Fisk and Vanderbilt Universities respectively. Brother Armstead also completed postgraduate work at Virginia Tech and Old Dominion University. Brother Armstead's professional experiences included: medical research technologist and clinical pathologist for the US Government and various Hampton area hospitals; teacher of biology at Marian Anderson High School in Elizabeth City, NC; assistant principal and teacher of biology, physics, and chemistry in the Hampton school sys- tem; in 1990 he was honored as Hampton Teacher of the Year; and science instructor at Hampton University. He also served three years in the US Navy and eight years in the US Army Reserves. Brother Armstead was an active member of Bethel A.M.E. Church in Hampton, for over 50 years, serving in such varied roles as: financial secretary and treasurer; member of the Trustee Board; president and member of the Senior Choir; member of the Sunday School; and Class Leader. He also served in various roles for the Lay Organization of the A.M.E. Church. He was also active in other aspects of the community including scouting, little league sports, AAU Swimming, the NAACP, and volunteering for the Community Action Agency. He also served as a volunteer tour guide at the Virginia Air and Space Museum in downtown Hampton. Brother Armstead was initiated into the Fraternity by way of Gamma Epsilon Chapter in 1951 during his college days at Hampton Institute. He was a past Basileus of the Zeta Omicron Chapter (1987-1990) and was once honored as Omega Man of the Year (1988). Brother Armstead was awarded his pin for 50 Years of Service at the 2002 Grand Conclave. Brother Armstead was also a member of Eastern Star Lodge No. 13. He enjoyed many hobbies over his lifetime including reading, fishing, sports, and gardening. But of all his hobbies, vegetable gardening was his favorite. He was nicknamed 'Gardener Extraordinaire' by several of his local horticulture peers, and he certainly lived up to the name. Many local gardeners tapped his knowledge and experience for gardening tips and advice, and his family and friends enjoyed eating his vegetables and fruits over many years. Brother Armstead leaves to cherish his memory a loving wife of 52 years, Mary S. Armstead along with three children and their spouses. Brother Conrad Johnson Brother Conrad Johnson, initiated 11/7/1936 at Theta Chapter, Wiley College (Home of the Great Debaters) in Marshall, Texas, currently a member of Nu Phi Chapter in Houston, Texas died on Sunday, just days after he was honored at a benefit for music education and scholarship in his name. Omega Chapter 81 Omega Chapter Omega’s Clarion Call Brother Conrad Johnson taught band at Houston's Kashmere High School. His bands were considered the best in the nation, winning many competitions. Known to many simply as "Prof," Brother Conrad Johnson is perhaps the most widely recognized and beloved music educator in Houston. Highly respected as a versatile, passionate saxophonist and leader of the band, Conrad Johnson Brother Conrad Johnson and His Orchestra, The Diminutive Octogenarian has for over 50 years been a major force in shaping the Houston sound. This sound, according to Roger Ward of "Living Blues Magazine,” is a rich synthesis of the seemingly antithetical elements of down-home Texas blues and sophisticated jazz. Brother Conrad Johnson was 92 years of age and will be missed by Omegas, friends and family. Brother John D. Skief Brother John D. Skief Brother John D. Skief was born and raised in West Philadelphia, PA on July 20, 1948. Versatility was a characteristic he developed during his school life. He was physically active in school, participating as a member of the All City Dance Ensemble. He was also a gymnast, a cross-country runner, and a soccer player. He set city and state, high jump records in high school and college. Brother Skief became consciously aware of the injustices African Americans faced in his youth, which led him to join the N.A.A.C.P. youth council at age 14. Further, under the auspices of the late Cecil B. Moore, Brother Skief participated in many civil rights demonstrations. Brother Skief was a constant advocate of African-American history and community control of education. After receiving his degree in education 82 from Cheyney State College (Now Cheyney University) in 1970 where Brother John Skief also became a members of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity March 1968, he began his teaching career in the Philadelphia Public School System. He was a leader in the High School restructuring program. At West Philadelphia High School, Brother Skief was the founder and coordinator of the Community Development Charter. He taught a three credit in-service course for the Philadelphia School District, entitled “African and African American Contributions to Science and Technology.” Brother Skief conducted numerous workshops for agencies and organizations with Teen Self-Esteem, Anti-Drug/ Violence and Rights of Passage Programs. He also conducted Teacher/Staff Development workshops for both the Philadelphia and Pennsylvania Departments of Education involving alternate approaches to education. These workshops include Afro-Centric teaching strategies, community service learning, and curriculum design and implementation. Brother Skief has worked every major political campaign since 1967. As a political consultant, he was the West Philadelphia coordinator for Mayor Wilson Goode in 1984. He designed Election Day strategies and trained workers for the historic event. He coordinated unprecedented voter registration campaigns in 1984. Brother Skief has worked for influential politicians such as John White Sr., Chaka Fattah, Vincent Hughes, Louise Bishop and Bill Gray. In 1973, he was one of the founding members of Harambee Institute of Science and Technology, a community-based cultural and educational institution and has been its only director. Brother Skief produced community Kwanzaa Celebrations annually since 1974 and produced lectures with noted Black authors and historians. He produced the African American Festival for the Robin Hood Dell East concerts and served as production manager for the Philadelphia Kwanzaa Expo and African American Parade and Festival. In 1985, he organized the Respect Yourself Youth Self-Esteem Program in Philadelphia. Brother Skief was an active member of Zeta Iota Iota Chapter. Unexpectedly, on the morning of Saturday, December 1, 2007, Brother John D. Skief passed onto Omega Chapter. Along with his wife and son, Masai, Brother Skief, is survived by three additional children: Terrell, 38 Kimberly, 35, Kalima, 19, 11 grandchildren and one greatgrandchild. Brother Skief also had a son, Damani, who was killed in Philadelphia 10 years ago. Omega Chapter Omega’s Clarion Call Q. What is the current mission of our Fraternity? A. The mission today is the same as it was in 1911 when Founders Love, Cooper, Coleman and Just created our Brotherhood; to Make a Difference in the Lives of Black People. Omega Psi Phi operates on three levels. The International Level or Grand Level where strategy is conceived; the district level where that strategy is further communicated to the field, and the chapter level where the strategy is executed. Every thing rises and falls on leadership and it is most important at the Grand level where strategy is derived and chapter level where the mission is carried out. Q. I understand that the focus of the Oracle has changed and that there is a secondary publication. Please explain the purpose for the alteration. A. Under the new vision of the Grand Basileus, the Oracle will become a scholarly publication that will be delivered to the Brotherhood as well as college and university presidents. The Oracle will contain scholarly work that will be much more insightful and thought-provoking than its forerunner. The periodical will feature the aristocracy of Omega Psi Phi intellect. The document will also allow Omega Brothers in academia the opportunity to become “published” so that they can achieve tenured status. The secondary publication is entitled Omega’s Clarion Call. This publication will be “themed-based.” This publication will contain the type of content that was previously contained in The Oracle. However, this publication will highlight the “best practices” of chapters and do away with the district sections. Q. I’ve heard that the type of photo submissions to our publications has changed. What is acceptable, what is not? A.Omega Psi Phi is an organization of college-educated men. The publications are outward signs of our intellect, status and how we want to be viewed by the public. As such, the Editors of the international publications will not accept any photos or visual submissions that depict canine expressions or poses often referred to as “throwing up the hooks.” The same holds true for Brothers wearing gold combat boots in photos. Q. What is the Omega Psi Phi Charities Program? A. The purpose of the Omega Psi Phi Charities program is to be the “Black American Red Cross.” This affiliate will raise money to assist black people when disaster strikes across the nation. The goal is to raise $40 (M) to seed this project. Q. I heard that Omega has insurance for undergraduates. Is that true? A. The member accident protection program of the Fraternity is a benefit of membership. The program is intended to compliment the health insurance of every undergraduate member of the Fraternity for injuries as a result of an accident. The premium for this program is paid by the Fraternity and the program may be cancelled or changed at the sole discretion of the Fraternity at any time. The information provided is for information purpose only is not intended to replace the insurance contract. For specific information regarding any claim, please contact HRH/Kirklin & Co. LLC (800) 736-4327. Q. I want to reconnect with Omega Psi Phi but there isn’t a chapter near my home. What can I do to be financial? A. Omega has an international membership. Please contact the reclamation committee for further details. Q. What is the position of the Fraternity for Non-Christians who make application to become members of Omega Psi Phi? A.Omega does not have an open admissions policy. It is a privilege to become a member of Omega Psi Phi and the Brotherhood is based on men who espouse Christian education and beliefs. 83 Omega’s $1,500,000 Philanthropic Project “Coaches VS Cancer” My brothers, we desperately need your help! Many of you no doubt have heard of this project called “Coaches VS Cancer” and there seems to be many legitimate concerns about exactly what we are trying to do. The answer to all of your questions is simple, “We are trying to raise $1,500,000 to be contributed to research institutions that are involved in the quest of finding a cure for Cancer”. Brother Charles A. Christopher, Sr., MD You ask “Why should we be so intimately involved?” Many of our brothers and their family members have been negatively impacted by the dreaded disease of cancer. We want to join in the fight against Cancer and to contribute to minority institutions actively involved in research. We have taken the stand that we must no longer totally depend on others to assist us in this fight and our contribution will be monumental in this life saving effort. What would be more brotherly than to assist African Americans with their care, their medications, their assisted living and increase their quality of life as they go through the struggle of dealing with Cancer? Cancer is devastating and its effects can seem insurmountable. We must join in this fight. We do not ask you to contribute to something that you do not believe will be beneficial to mankind, but as educated and learned men, we should have no doubt as to the value of this contribution. As a service organization it is our charge to given generously and to uplift our brothers and sisters. Just knowing that there is active research taking place and that we are an integral part of that research, our contribution reinforces our motto of Friendship being essential to the soul. Brothers, in honor of Brothers Love, Cooper, Coleman and Just, let us not wallow in the valley of despair but let us glow with the incandescence of Omega’s well lighted lamp. As Diogenes walked through the streets of Athens looking for the face of an honest man, let us walk into the lives of many Americans looking for the face of victory and triumph. Let us show our love for Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., let us show our love for mankind as we attend our District meetings and Conclave. We ask you to consider buying 1 less item of Omega paraphernalia and dedicate those funds to “Coaches VS Cancer”. With your faith and commitment, we can move mountains! Please visit our booth at all upcoming meetings! In Friendship, Charles A. Christopher, MD Surgeon General 84 MEGA PSI PHI F R A T E R N I T Y , I N C. Greeting Brothers: The 2008 75th Grand Conclave Registration information is now officially available! All of the forms you need are available online at the fraternity’s official website, www.oppf.org. Online you may register for the Conclave, register your Quette, and register your children for the Que Kids activities. Although the preferred registration method is via the lockbox system; there are also links available on the website that will allow you to print and mail the registration forms. Please note: the manual method of printing and completing the forms outside of the lockbox may cause a substantial delay when compared to the lock box method. There is also a link to make your hotel reservation. Hotel rooms will not be processed until after you have successfully registered for the Conclave. Printing and mailing the hotel reservation form may cause a substantial delay when compared to making your reservations online. Only registered brothers are eligible to reserve rooms under the fraternity’s hotel block and rate. Manual registration materials must be mailed to us at the address below. Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. CONCLAVE REGISTRATION 3951 Snapfinger Parkway Decatur, GA 30035 REGISTRATION FEE SCHEDULE EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION $325 Feb 1 - March 31, 2008 PRE-REGISTRATION $375 April 1 - April 30, 2008 BASIC REGISTRATION $400 May 1 - June 15, 2008 LATE REGISTRATION $450 June 16 - July 6, 2008 ON-SITE REGISTRATION $450 July 13, 2008 See you in Birmingham! 85 Omega’s Clarion Call Chapter, Basileus and KRS Listing Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Chapter Basilei and Keepers of Records & Seal 86 DIS_ID CHP_ID CHP_NAME BASILEUS_FIRST BASILEUS_LAST 01 01 01 01 01 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 03 03 03 03 03 03 03 03 03 03 03 03 03 03 03 04 04 Alpha Nu Delta Chi Eta Phi Iota Chi Tau Iota Alpha Lambda Lambda Alpha Upsilon Chi Rho Chi Upsilon Delta Upsilon Epsilon Epsilon Pi Eta Pi Gamma Pi Iota Nu Iota Phi Iota Xi Kappa Omega Mu Iota Iota Mu Nu Mu Omega Mu Rho Nu Beta Beta Nu Nu Nu Tau Nu Upsilon Omicron Chi Omicron Iota Phi Epsilon Phi Kappa Phi Omega Pi Pi Alpha Pi Kappa Kappa Pi Omega Psi Epsilon Sigma Beta Beta Tau Lambda Lambda Upsilon Phi Upsilon Tau Xi Lambda Lambda Zeta Iota Iota Alpha Iota Delta Omega Kappa Iota Iota Kappa Psi Lambda Omega Lambda Zeta Omicron Kappa Kappa Phi Phi Pi Lambda Lambda Psi Alpha Alpha Psi Nu Tau Lambda Tau Rho Upsilon Nu Xi Iota Beta Iota Delta Alpha Cowlis Toy Vernell Everton Edward T Jahari Kirk William Tarik Charles G. Julius Bryant Anthony Teddy Walter Kenneth Neil Arthur Daryl Bobby Alan Leon James Mamon Harl O Carlton David Kenneth Terric Aaron Daren Richard Jeffrey Bertrand D. Danard Ahmir Bernard Luther Bruce Lee Dennis Zachary Edward U Ezekiel Lloyd Edward Kenneth Sonny Ricardo C Glenwood Harvey Kenneth Joseph George Lyndon Cecil Alfred Jeremiah Marvin 000709 000642 000530 000647 000588 000904 000616 000707 000637 000619 000005 000737 000739 000735 000717 000532 000765 000510 000867 000720 000512 000697 000820 000721 000675 000628 000653 000584 000090 000258 000521 000016 000562 000895 000516 000092 000825 000922 000543 000682 000917 000861 000570 000504 000865 000033 000511 000200 000894 000544 000919 000806 000731 000280 000704 000728 000583 000571 000550 KRS_FIRST KRS_LAST Andrews Eric Edwards Frasier Jr William Michel Baker Frederick Powell Mandley Joshua Garvin Arrington Crawford, Sr. Tony Story Wilkinson Garnold King II Tyson Louis Hertzog Moore Brian Walters Davis Khary Nickson Smalls Charles Coleman Jr. Greene Clifton Smith, II Wells II Hayes Ozro Taylor Gordon G Everett Wyatt Jr Windsor Jones Minefield Eugene Curtain, III Phillips Sr Gregory Edwards Dickinson Kevin Washington Kimbrough Joseph Monsanto Juett Clarence Thomas Jr Junius Jason DeMarco Washington Kenneth Jones Young Jr Devry Pazant Bey Michael Brown Fisher Thurmon Myers Lampkins Troy Grant Fields Clinton Hall Walker, Sr. Roger Scully Richardson Jaquan Williams Holloman Aaron Holloman Thomas Andrew Huff Jr. Greer Lonnie Williams Dumpson Donnie LaRue Harry Mark Coston Jr. Smith Evan Murray Manning Addison Wright III Eyssalenne Frank Drayton Clark Anthony Zanfordino, IV Harman Felix Bryant Jr Isabell Jr Reginald White McGloster Thomas Edward McBride Jr Rollins David Fields Smith Michael Ricks Dennison, Jr. James Clark Sr Boxley Jr. Henry Gourdine Muhammad Willie Williams Jr Edmond Lynman Stamps Smith Kwame Tuffuor Sewell Mark Williams Hence Gilbert Johnson Woodson David Ballard Younger Antonio Coleman Neal Andrew Gibson, III Douglas II Jeremy McReynolds Roane Douglas Carter Shorte James Shackelford, Jr Wilson David Simmons, Jr Hunter II Christopher Shropshire Horton Ronald Johnson, Jr. START_DATE END_DATE 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 Omega’s Clarion Call Chapter, Basileus and KRS Listing DIS_ID CHP_ID CHP_NAME BASILEUS_FIRST BASILEUS_LAST KRS_FIRST KRS_LAST START_DATE END_DATE 04 04 04 05 05 05 05 05 05 05 05 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 Iota Psi Psi Gamma Xi Alpha Chi Psi Epsilon Phi Eta Beta Pi Gamma Gamma Psi Pi Psi Psi Sigma Lambda Lambda Xi Xi Alpha Delta Kappa Alpha Delta Zeta Beta Beta Beta Beta Chi Beta Phi Chi Iota Chi Iota Iota Delta Lambda Lambda Delta Rho Epsilon Omega Epsilon Upsilon Gamma Iota Iota Beta Beta Iota Iota Kappa Pi Kappa Rho Lambda Gamma Lambda Iota Iota Lambda Pi Lambda Psi Mu Alpha Mu Sigma Phi Chi Psi Delta Psi Kappa Psi Phi Sigma Chi Tau Gamma Gamma Tau Psi Upsilon Beta Beta Zeta Alpha Zeta Zeta Alpha Gamma Gamma Alpha Phi Alpha Pi Alpha Tau Alpha Xi Beta Alpha Beta Gamma Gamma Beta Omicron Beta Pi Beta Psi Beta Theta Chi Epsilon Chi Gamma Gamma Chi Tau Chi Tau Tau Epsilon Kappa Kappa Eta Nu Eta Rho Eta Zeta Tyrone Ranon Bobby Markel Larry Rakia Edward Gerrick Jonathan William Michael Chad Charles Willie Kelvin Derrick Alphonso Samuel Arthur D Mack Frank Maury Stanley George W. Eric Johnny Rodney Julian Ronald Edward Jerome Charles Jacob Travis Neils Brandon Gregory Calvin Jack Jacob Larry Howard Quintin Bobby Chris John Michael Carlton Craig David Willie Elvin Hasani Justin Justin Benjamin R. Steven Kevin Alvin John Frank Edward Ethan Martin Steve Derrick Adrian Reginald Rickey Marcus Michael Timothy Malik Adrain Larry Ernest Kraig Gregory Charles Kelvin Dwayne Clyde Leroy Charles Thomas Elijah Lloyd Brent Gregory Kevin James Jimmy Jonathan Gregory Robert Tyrone Donald Everett Joseph Basil S Richard Jeffery Kenneth Michael Alexander Calvin Allison Charlie Christopher Anthony William Elzie Vin Marcus Daniel Marco Mark Charles Alvin Jarrod Amos Clifford James Jason Farris Martin Thomas Williams, Sr Baskin Smith II Boone Tucker Brevner Jr. Chapman Biel Grady Watson II Hall Brown Ward Brooks Mosley Chambers Bess Fogle Whitesides II Bultman Mccants, Sr. Dunn, Jr. Chavous Bennett Felder Clemmons, Jr. Cochran Joiner Harris Hiller Williams Perry, Jr. Draughn Ward Jr Harris Nash Street Watson Putney Galloway Walker Wrenn III Johnson Jr. Spencer Freeman Jemison Mitchell Durant Monroe Shade Ashford Smith, II McCord Peterson Pouncey Hamlin Sr. Wimberly, Jr. Jackson Jr Shepherd 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 01-Nov-08 01-Nov-08 01-Nov-08 000032 000116 000560 000045 000528 000148 000847 000755 000046 000921 000770 000340 000335 000809 000640 000525 000591 000877 000907 000689 000505 000620 000572 000816 000578 000742 000695 000104 000866 000743 000034 000558 000058 000659 000188 000260 000546 000656 000850 000042 000827 000552 000195 000832 000524 000733 000663 000757 000548 000833 000594 000734 000025 000119 000091 000853 000684 000338 000884 000715 000692 000196 Waller, II Thompson Robinson Eskridge Strong Haynes Morant Williams Snell Sweet Wade Miller Brady, Jr. Jordan Coaxum Vines Timmons Frederick, Jr. Enoch Burgess Mundy Williams Scriven Mckoy Fairfax Dewese Sessoms Lee Tillman Mills Funderburk Jr. Allen Laurie, Jr. Alexander Ribeiro-Yemofio Gaither Bradsher Galloway Martin, Jr. Bagley Foye Herring Jr Lewis Wiseman Brooks Humes Lavender Buckhanon Porter Moore Taylor Price Ellis Montgomery Thomas Hill Jr Hall Capers Jackson Williams Jr Brunson Waller Jr 87 Omega’s Clarion Call 88 Chapter, Basileus and KRS Listing DIS_ID CHP_ID CHP_NAME BASILEUS_FIRST BASILEUS_LAST 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 08 08 08 08 08 08 08 08 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 Gamma Nu Iota Omega Iota Upsilon Kappa Beta Beta Kappa Upsilon Lambda Iota Lambda Tau Nu Delta Nu Epsilon Nu Eta Nu Xi Omega Chi Omega Gamma Gamma Omicron Epsilon Omicron Tau Phi Kappa Kappa Phi Rho Pi Delta Delta Pi Iota Psi Chi Psi Iota Iota Psi Omega Psi Rho Rho Epsilon Sigma Phi Tau Theta Tau Upsilon Gamma Gamma Xi Kappa Kappa Xi Omicron Zeta Beta Beta Zeta Chi Beta Omega Chi Phi Eta Alpha Eta Sigma Omicron Xi Phi Xi Upsilon Omega Xi Pi Alpha Delta Delta Alpha Delta Epsilon Alpha Iota Iota Alpha Mu Mu Chi Kappa Kappa Delta Tau Epsilon Omicron Eta Chi Eta Iota Eta Lambda Lambda Gamma Chi Gamma Omicron Iota Gamma Gamma Lambda Alpha Lambda Kappa Kappa Mu Beta Mu Tau Nu Iota Nu Kappa Omicron Gamma Gamma Omicron Lambda Omicron Lambda Lambda William Naaman Jerry Charles Larry Abdur Reginald Keith Brandon Dominic William Collins Willie Markee Donald W Reginald Kewan Julian Ronald Berry Charles Billy James Cedric Farrell Angus Johnny Perry Antonio Ernest Joseph Dorsey Orrin Theron Robert Brandon James Bryce Charles Brett Michael Cantrelle Michael Nkrumah Perry Kemp Herman Henry Bryan Kenneth Anthony Jim Marcus Calvin Troy Henry Gustavus Louis Jon Van Quinton Bruce 000711 000509 000624 000817 000625 000580 000673 000178 000082 000226 000769 000662 000855 000084 000677 000900 000706 000325 000585 000661 000878 000523 000708 000086 000541 000019 000670 000851 000893 000606 000813 000644 000502 000545 000553 000053 000771 000777 000520 000746 000310 000334 000856 000928 000901 000666 000597 000645 000576 000910 000641 000595 000840 000557 000890 000153 000674 000582 000250 000846 000276 000918 KRS_FIRST KRS_LAST Bartley, III William Bartley, III Bethea Ronald Thomas Peterson Kelly Woods Corbitt Jr Joseph Jones Millender Charles Falana Hassan John Hunter Jackson Antwan Walker Kemp, Jr. Patavious Sorrell Terrell Jason Boddie Peterson Johnnie Turnipseed Blowe Lance Reed Pettaway, Jr. Ivery Williams Ethan Bailey Jr Robinson Sr Duncan Norman Davis Jr. Teal Maurice Bonner Sullivan Rodney Sylvester Jackson Jamie Jackson Smith Travis Meadows Cherry Ameer Khan Davis Rodney Rocker, Sr. Sansbury Carl Winters Nichols Akenga Smith Dye Brian White Haynes Justin Simmons Duncombe Michael Snapp Wilson Phillip Elder Harris Anthony Burdell Smith Barian Woodward Landers Cedric Cleveland Rentz II Lathan Strong Randolph Robert Alfonso Jr Miller, III Thomas Walker II Ellis Mandrid Williams, Jr. Labrie Michael Short Robinson Lucius Jones Kendrick James Dickens Burch Jesse Butler Pringle Omar Branch Shelton III Eric Latham Britton Vernon Gray Lewis Hulan Washington Larkins Eric Davis Hartman Phillip Taylor Dixon Daniels, Jr. Charles Baker Oubre, Sr. Steven Pierre Long James McBride, Jr. Jackson Clifford Stewart Johnson Douglas Brown Jones Dwayne Conner Ford Leroy Bunch Fuller Jr Eddie Thompson Sr Branch Willie Banks Jr Beal Josh McDaniels, Jr. Williams Leslie Parms III Hayes Christopher Johnson Washington Curtis Sanders Tennison John A Thompson Killen Jon Killen Newborn Kenneth Brown Moore Michael Criswell Horton Anthony Jones START_DATE END_DATE 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 01-Nov-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 01-Nov-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 01-Nov-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 Chapter, Basileus and KRS Listing DIS_ID CHP_ID CHP_NAME 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 09 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 13 13 13 13 13 13 Phi Gamma Osaretin Igbinedion Trerod Hall Pi Omicron Derek Lewis Marcus Waters Pi Tau Bobby Burkes Sr Oscar Epps Jr Psi Alpha Gregory Thompson Vernard Grice Psi Upsilon Tyrone Hughes James McBride, Jr. Rho Beta Beta Roosevelt Meads Michael Stewart Rho Chi James Clemons Jr Kevin Semien Rho Nu Leo Varner, Jr. Jerome Davis Rho Omega Lawrence Anderson Kenneth Thomas Rho Phi Joseph Davis Johnnie Brown Jr Rho Xi Jeffery Williams Aneil Smothers Sigma Kappa Brandon Wady-Smith Dennis Higgins II Tau Phi Ronald Laurent Rodney Riles Theta Alpha Ronald Patterson Karras Jackson Theta Delta Tarayl Taylor Mitchell Williams Theta Kappa LeDaryl Roberson Phillip Singleton Theta Upsilon Alcus Davis Israel Nelson Upsilon Chi Brion Jackson Donta Wright Upsilon Iota Xi Alpha Alpha Georon Rawlings Bobby Benjamin Jr Xi Upsilon Sylvester Pace Warren Marks Chi Lambda Lambda Terry Chambers Gregory Hardaway Delta Beta Beta Marcus Ballard Justin Johnson Gamma Gamma Gamma William Weeden Arlington Davis III Iota Andre Garner Bobby Lay Iota Pi Ennis Young LeMark Payne Nu Kappa Kappa Matthew Fisher III Nu Omega Steven McReynolds Douglas Capers, III Nu Pi Anthony Richardson Pasquell Robinson Rho Gamma Gamma Michael Ward Bernard Cale, Jr. Rho Sigma Eric Crump Eric Crump Rho Tau Marvin Burruss Robert Brothers Jr. Sigma Omega Torin Edmond Dana O`Banion Sigma Rho James Brown Victor Turner Jr Sigma Upsilon Robert James Harold Gilkey Tau Kappa Kappa Patrick Bosworth Darryl Jones Theta Nu Gregory Pittman Marvin Nash Zeta Epsilon Paul Butler Quentin Hunter Zeta Phi Curtis White Eugene Hawkins Alpha Mu Darren Moore Emmanuel Awofadeju Alpha Rho Keir Abrams Christopher Thomas Beta Mu Mu Michael Littlejohn Elton Bacon Chi Nu Andrew Jones Darrell Burton, II Delta Pi William Grubbs Timothy Allen Eta Alpha Alpha James Wilson Jr James George Gamma Alpha Alpha Charles Whittaker Wayne Hardy II Lambda Omicron Tyrone Gayles Lawrence Brown II Mu Alpha Alpha Anthony Moore James Hopkins Phi Beta Beta Michael Haynes Sondrea Bowen Phi Omicron Marion Williams III Gregory Webb Pi Rho Garry Biggers Bert Wright, Jr. Sigma Iota Timothy Waters Trevor Brown Tau Tau Ronan Hill Jamemy Barnett Theta Pi James McDowell II Jason Jones Xi Nu Phillip Brooks Robert Woodson Zeta Tau William Thomas James Mason, II Lambda Beta Beta Walter Torrence Richard Ray Jr Lambda Xi Kaleth Wright Eric Kelly Phi Gamma Gamma Antonio Sampson Ramel Jackson Pi Xi Eugene Horton Jr Kevin Longley Theta Rho Clinton Lee, Jr. Byron Matthews Upsilon Lambda Lambda Eric Barnes Martin Jordan 000114 000608 000678 000569 000638 000824 000655 000725 000517 000540 000773 000255 000542 000554 000173 000245 000623 000658 000589 000797 000629 000925 000811 000834 000009 000741 000892 000513 000745 000848 000063 000679 000518 000703 000633 000898 000716 000075 000529 000286 000686 000929 000730 000736 000790 000786 000603 000795 000828 000613 000701 000587 000681 000740 000722 000668 000818 000767 000852 000772 000693 000923 BASILEUS_FIRST BASILEUS_LAST Omega’s Clarion Call KRS_FIRST KRS_LAST START_DATE END_DATE 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 01-Nov-07 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 01-Nov-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 31-Oct-08 89 Grand Conclave – Summer 2008 July 9th through July 18th Birmingham, AL “The Magic City” “Friendship Is Essential To The Soul”