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TRANSCRIPT
Warren G. Lee, Jr., Grand Basileus
James W. Jordan, District Representative
Zanes E. Cypress, Jr., Dir. of Public Relations
“THE VOICE OF THE SECOND DISTRICT” Winter 2009 Edition
THE OMEGAN
Inside this issue:
New York - New Jersey - Pennsylvania - Delaware - Maryland
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated
Friendship Is Essential to the Soul
Founded November 17, 1911
Omegas for Obama Inaugural Ball 2
Alpha Upsilon Chapter Articles 4-5
Nu Nu Chapter Articles 6-7
Omega Chapter Articles 12-13
LGG’s Youth Leadership Conference 16
Pi Chapter’s 85th Anniversary 18
2008-09 Second District Executive Council 21
Brother Frank “Tick” Coleman Omega Chapter
The Second District Mourns the Loss of One of Omegas Sturdy Trees
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Omegas for Obama Inaugural Ball Saturday January 17th 2009. The Ome-gas for Obama Inaugural Ball was held at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City, VA. This was a 5 star, first class event of the highest order. Upon entry patrons viewed the Omegas for Obama ice sculpture with the logo and the fraternity’s Greek letters, pictured below. Each of the 700+ patrons in attendance received a beautiful purple or gold silk wrapped glass tumbler with the Omega for Obama logo etching, an event button and Souvenir Journal as commemo-rative keepsakes. A continuous video pres-entation of Obamas road to victory was viewed on multiple screens in the hall
during the event.
Brother Rick C. Wade, who currently serves on the presidents transition team and served during the campaign as National Senior Advisor to Obama for America and Director of African-American Vote, was honored by the Omegas for Obama Committee. Brother Gary L. Flowers, the current Executive Director and CEO of the Black Leadership Forum, Inc., (an alliance and clearinghouse for over 30 Black civil rights and service organizations in the United States, based in D.C.) was also honored for the role he played during the campaign. Actor, author
and presidential friend Hill Harper, First Vice Grand Basileus, Carl Blunt and Second District Representative, James W. Jordan welcomed the audience.
Sponsored by the Second District and hosted by Lambda Gamma Gamma Chapter, seven Second District Chapters and three Third District participated in the event.
The Second District should be proud of its leadership for the vision and for rais-ing the bar in the production of the Omegas for Obama Inaugural Ball done in true and customary Omega fashion.
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February 7 2009.Mayor Sheila Dixon hosted "It Takes a Village," her second annual community Black History Month celebration, on February 7, 2009, at the War Memorial Building in Baltimore, MD. The event was emceed by Maria Broom, known for her roles as an actress, reporter and teacher, and Marc Clarke, formerly the host of 92Q's "Big Fat Morning Show". The event was closed with a keynote speech given by famous actor, comedian, and activist, Bro. Bill Cosby and a discus-sion on the theme, "It Takes a Village".
Pi Omega Chapter was a sponsor for a $200.00 savings bond that was provided to
the first place winner of the “It Takes A Village” Poetry Contest. Ms. Quaje Reed a 6th grader from the Harlem Park Elemen-tary/Middle School was the recipient of the savings bond. She also received a laptop computer courtesy of the Walmart Corpo-ration.
Students from the Patterson Park Charter School made presentations on several fa-mous African Americans from Baltimore. Three of the people mentioned were Omega Men and members of Pi Chapter at Morgan State University: Bro. Walter A. Gill, first black student to graduate from Baltimore City College High School, Bro.
Joe Black, pitcher with the Brooklyn Dodgers and the first black to pitch in the World Series, and Bro. Samm-Art Wil-liams, television producer for “Martin”, “Fresh Prince of Bel Air” and “Hanging With Mr. Cooper”.
Bro. Cosby spoke on the importance of sharing family history with your children, thus giving them a sense of self worth and who they are. He also shared some stories that provided simple examples of how one can show love to a child. Bro. Cosby re-ceived a standing ovation for his talk
Pi Omega Sponsors “It Takes A Village”
Pi Omega Achievement Week Founders Day Celebration
Brother Kelvin O’Neill Pi Omega Chapter Omega Man of the Year
November17, 2009. Pi Omega held its Achievement week/Founders Day cele-bration at The Forum Caterers in Balti-more, MD. Former Grand Keeper of Records and Seal Walter Amprey was the Master of Ceremonies. Spiritual up-lift was given by Brother Rev. Michael Miller. The meaning of Brotherhood was given by Bro. Dr. Washington Green, Jr. Re-Dedication was given by Inspector General Hon. George K. McKinney. Grand Basileus Warren G. Lee Jr. was the Keynote Speaker.
The Muslim Community Cultural Center of Baltimore & the Arthur ‘Smokestack Handy Fire Museum received the How-ard Lee Cornish Humanitarian Award.
Brother Gary Rodwell received the National Superior Service Award. Brother Malik Mosley received the Founder’s Award. The Outstanding Citizen Award recipient was Brother Demaune Millard (Baltimore Mayor’ Shelia Dixon’s Chief of Staff) and the PI Omega Chapter Omega Man of the Year was awarded to Brother Kelvin O’Neill. The Omega Toast was given by Bro. Charles W. Cephas.
The Pi Omega Chapter Achievement Week Founder’s Day Ceremony was closed with a benediction by Bro. Rev. Michael Miller followed by a resound-ing rendition of the Omega Hymm sung by the Brothers of Omega in attendance.
Bro. Bill Cosby Keynote Speaker Pi Omega Basileus John Berkley gives savings bond to Ms. Ouaje Reed
Pi Omega Brothers in attendance at the “It Takes a Village” event.
Brooklyn, New York – On Saturday, No-vember 1, 2008 the Men of Alpha Upsilon Chapter “Brooklyn Omega” of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. held their Annual Na-tionally Mandated Achievement Week Pro-gram at the Grace A. Harewood Senior Citizen Center in the Fort Greene Section of Brooklyn.
Originally designed to promote the study of Negro life and history, Achievement Week is observed in November of each year and is designed to seek out and give due recogni-tion to those individuals at the local and international levels who have made a note-worthy contribution toward improving the quality of life for African-Americans.
Alpha Upsilon Chapter held true to the Achievement Week mandate by recognizing and honoring individuals with the follow-ing: Brother Edward H. Taylor Lifetime Achievement Award to Brother William C. McMickens - initiated into the Fraternity via Eta Epsilon Chapter (Miles College – Bir-mingham, Alabama) on October 15, 1955 for his longevity of loyal and dedicated service to our Omega Dear; Citizen of the Year to Mr. Gil Noble who is the producer and host of New York City television sta-tion WABC-TV’s weekly program “Like It Is”, which focuses primarily on issues con-cerning African Americans and those within the African Diaspora; Superior Service Award to Brother Kyle D. Plant for service above and beyond the call of duty; and the highly coveted Omega Man of the Year honor was bestowed upon Brother Glenn E. Chapman for his embodiment of our Cardi-
nal Principals and diligence in “Seeing it Through” on any given task! The program was well attended by friends, family members and Omega Men from the New York City Metropolitan Area. Those in attendance were treated to a reflective talk from Mr. Gil Noble on the African American experience, an enthusiastic and informative Keynote Address from the 31st
Second District Representative Brother James W. Jordan on the theme Economic Empowerment and Financial Literacy and a live musical performance by trumpet player Mr. Antonio Dangerfield and friends.
The Men of Alpha Upsilon Chapter would like to recognize and thank the Men of Zeta Psi Chapter for co-hosting this Achievement Week Program in what we hope is one of many collaborative efforts to come. Congratulations to all the Alpha Upsilon Chapter and Zeta Psi Chapter awardees! Special thanks to the Achieve-ment Week Committee: Brothers - An-thony A. Smalls, Harold E. Valle, Garnold M. King II, Michael B. Tucker, Lamar D. Coombs and Committee Chairman Kyle D. Plant for putting together a thoroughly enjoyable program.
Alpha Upsilon 2008 Achievement Week Ceremony
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Alpha Upsilon Voter Registration Drive
Staten Island, New York –On Sunday after-noon, October 5th, 2008 the brother’s of Alpha Upsilon Chapter in collaboration with the ladies of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Staten Island Alumnae Chapter gathered in the Stapleton community to register voters for the upcoming presidential elections. The men of “Brooklyn Omega” and the Deltas of Staten Island canvassed the area to solicit and encour-age the populace to register and vote. Those who already were registered were encouraged to vote in the elections for 2008. Those who had apprehensions on registering because of criminal histories were handed out much needed information on their eligibility to vote. Many were not aware of their right to vote as
this information may not have been read-ily available to them in the past. The drive was successful in registering forty new voters as well as bringing awareness to voter’s privilege and providing much needed insight and information. The brothers of Alpha Upsilon Chapter who participated in this event were Basileus Kirk Wilkinson (1-NT-92), Glenn Chap-man (3-AU-05), Christopher Loper (4-AU-07) and Howard Keller (1-AU-07). To celebrate a successful afternoon the men of “Brooklyn Omega” and the Deltas of Staten Island joined together at a local eatery to fellowship.
Alpha Upsilon Brothers & Delta Sisters man the Voter Registration Table
Bro. Garnold M. King II addresses the audience at Alpha Upsilon’s Achievement Week Program
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Alpha Upsilon Walk for Leukemia And Lymphoma to combat this illness. Balloons were handed out to the walkers designated by color: gold for survivors, red for supporters and white for those we honor in memoriam. Alpha Upsilon’s own Bro. Kiesean Riddick is a Lymphoma survivor and it was pleas-ant to see Bro. Riddick sharing his experi-ence with other survivors and participants in the walk. Brothers who heeded the call
New York, New York –On a clear Thursday evening October 16th, 2008 the brother’s of Alpha Upsilon Chapter, “Brooklyn Omega” participated in the 2008 Light the Night Walk for Leukemia and Lymphoma. The event took place at South Street Seaport and culminated with a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. The night was well attended by thousands and supported awareness for funding and research
to action were Basileus Kirk Wilkinson (1-NT-92), Glenn Chapman (3-AU-05), Kiesean Riddick (3-AU-07), Christo-pher Loper (4-AU-07), Howard Keller (1-AU-07), Lamar Coombs (1-AU-05), and visiting Brother Major Dietrich Jordan (TGG 07). The brothers look forward to next years walk and doing our part to help combat this disease.
Alpha Upsilon Black Heritage Day Celebration Staten Island, New York –On Saturday Octo-ber 18th, 2008 the brothers of Alpha Upsilon Chapter along with the ladies of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Staten Island Alumnae Chapter participated in the 2ND Annual Black Heritage Day Parade. The parade route trav-
eled north up Bay Street from the Staple-ton community to Richmond County Ball-park in Saint George. A variety of festivi-ties met the marchers and public at the ballpark. Vendors, steel drum bands, R&B groups, conscious hip hop groups, dance
troupes and spoken word poetry were among the many performances. The brothers of “Brooklyn Omega” and the Deltas of Staten Island joined together at the end of the day to celebrate through fellowship the communities that we serve.
Nu Lambda Lambda Celebrates 6th Years of Illustrious Service
The Nu Lambda Lambda (NLL) Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fra-ternity Incorporated recently celebrated its sixth anniversary as a chapter. This chapter was founded on January 4, 2003 and con-tinues to serve the Hudson County area, particularly the city of Jersey City. NLL was founded on the common vision of Omega men who grew up in Jersey City and wanted to uplift their com-munity. This chapter commenced with Chapter founders, Bro. Sean Wilson, Bro. Tyrone Rose, Bro. Rashawn Adams, and Bro. Dwayne Adams along with thirteen charter members also known
as the ‘Bridge Builders’. NLL continues to grow not in member-ship, but in quality Omega men. NLL also continues to strive to uplift the community of Jersey City through various community projects and initiatives. Most recent projects include the NJ Blood Bank Drive, a voter registration drive, feeding the homeless, and a toy/coat drive for less fortunate children. Indeed, the Nu Lambda Lambda Chapter continues to uphold the traditions and proud leg-acy of our beloved Fraternity.
Charter Members of Nu Lambda Lambda Chapter
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Nu Nu Chapter Achievement Week Awards Banquet Willingboro, NJ - The Nu Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi held its annual Achievement Week Awards Banquet at the Kove II in Edgewater Park, NJ on Saturday, 15 Novem-ber 2008. Past Second District Representa-tive Bro. Gregory E. Ackles, Sr. was the Master of Ceremonies. Bro. Jarrod Flowers then gave remarks for the occasion, and ex-plained the purpose of Achievement Week. After the welcome by Basileus Bro. Mamon S. Bey and invocation by Chaplain Bro. Al-fred D. Dennis, a proclamation was read renaming the Citizen of the Year Award the “Theodore Cannon Citizen of the Year Award.”
After a delicious meal, one of Nu Nu Chap-ter’s Founders, Bro. Arthur F. Brown intro-duced the speaker, Bro. Michael Muse, the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated 2008 National Undergraduate Scholar of the Year. After his motivational speech, Bro. Muse was given a portrait of our Distin-guished Founders by the Nu Nu Chapter.
The following individuals were recognized for their many contributions to the Chapter and to the community we serve:
Bros. Michael Brown and Jeffrey Cole were presented with the “Joseph Washington Basileus Award.” Ms. Reva Foster of Wil-lingboro, NJ was honored by the Chapter with the “Theodore Cannon Citizen of the Year Award” for her numerous contributions to the Willingboro community. Bros. Tho-mas H. Mayfield and Emmett Smith were presented the “George Waters Superior Ser-vice Award.” The Founder’s Award was bestowed upon Bros. Melvin W. Thomas, Ronald J. Moffitt, 2nd District Director of Public Relations Emeritus, Colonel Larry Boyd, and Walter Neal Howard for con-stantly exhibiting our Cardinal Principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift. Bro. Dennis W. Tunstall was pre-sented with the “Melvin Thomas Omega Man of the Year Award” for his outstanding com-
mitment to Willingboro youth and the Boro Blitz Basketball Association.
A special presentation to the Nu Nu Chapter outgoing Basileus Bro. Ma-mon S. Bey was given by Basileus-elect Bro. David S. Linder. After comments by Bro. Bey, Immediate Past Second District Representative, Bro. Marvin C. Dillard introduced and installed the 2009 Nu Nu Chapter Officers.
After the installation ceremony, Nu Nu Basileus David S. Linder gave closing remarks, and the benediction was given by Chaplain Alfred Dennis. The eve-ning culminated in the Brothers singing our beloved hymn, “Omega Dear.” It was a wonderful event, and a good time was had by all, and it was a spe-cial time for “Brethren to dwell to-gether in unity” by taking the time out to honor and recognize our own for contributions to our community
Installation of Nu Nu Chapter Officers Presentation of Founders Portrait to Bro. Michael Muse (’07 Beta Gamma) by Bro. Arthur F. Brown (’55 Beta Gamma) & Second District Undergraduate Advisor Bro. Donzelle Tiller (’82 Nu Psi)
Bros. Thomas H. Mayfield (’47 Zeta Sigma) and COL George Waters (’58 Mu Psi) enjoy the Achievement Week activities.
The Proclamation renaming the Citizen of the Year Award to the Theodore Cannon Citizen of the Year Award is presented to
Bro. Theodore Cannon (’51 Alpha)
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Nu Nu Omega Teens Social Action Program
Willingboro, NJ - The Nu Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi hosted the young men of the Omega Teens Mentoring Program for uplift at the John F. Kennedy Center in Willingboro, NJ on Saturday, 23 No-vember 2008. A workshop was con-ducted on “Time Management” by our very own Bro. Vincent Brown, ’92 Delta Upsilon and Bro. Kevin Waters, ’00 Nu Nu. Bros. Brown and Waters were very informational, inspirational, and thought provoking.
Our youth were given time management tools, such as knowing themselves, knowing their plans, knowing what to do, when and how to do it, and that knowing mus t l ead to do ing (remembering the goal, measuring pro-gress, and developing and maintaining the flexibility to change their plans.) Program participants were also given priority areas such as schoolwork/academics, family, friendships, quiet time, hobbies, and rest to add into their daily routines. The overall theme was to remember that self discipline consists mainly in remembering WHAT you REALLY want.
Nu Nu Chapter’s 2008 Christmas Basket Drive The Nu Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. uplifted the community during the holiday season by making Christmas baskets and collecting dona-tions for needy families in the Burling-ton, Camden, and Mercer county areas. Through this annual event, fourteen food baskets were made, which were delivered to families on Christmas Day. In addition, the donations were enough to supply fourteen identified families with clothing and toys so that the fami-lies could have a “Merry Christmas”. Donations were made by individual Chapter Brothers and members of the community. The food baskets were assembled at the Omega Community Development Inc.’s Arthur F. Brown Community Center in Burlington, NJ, named after Nu Nu Chapter’s own Bro. Arthur F. Brown (’55 Beta Gamma). Additionally, all gifts were gift-wrapped, labeled and addressed to mem-bers of the identified families.
he Nu Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi is the only Fraternity or Sorority visible in the New Yorkshire Community of Bur-lington, NJ. Our Annual “Christmas Basket Drive and Clothing/Toy Dona-tion” collection is an effort to give back
to the community that some of our Chapter Brothers grew up in, and is also a part of our effort to make things a little better and more positive for its residents, especially the kids and their struggling families. OMEGA’s visibility is well known in the community.
Some participants who attend boarding school and/or private school also pro-vided feedback on how proper time management helps them to be success-
ful at school and in other areas. Nu Nu Chapter added to the rich history of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., by providing uplift to the youth in our communities
Fourteen families were given clothing and toy donations by the Nu Nu Chapter for Christmas 2008.
Bro. Vincent Brown (’92 Delta Upsilon) mentors to Omega Teen participants.
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PiKK Chapter’s “Tales from the Ωrypt” Join Omega’s Fold
Burlington, NJ – 18 April 2008
The Brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Pi Kappa Kappa Chapter joined with visiting Brothers from Nu Nu and Phi Kappa to initiate the new members at the Bethlehem AME Church in Burlington, NJ.
Pi Kappa Kappa's "Tales From The Ωrypt" comprises Jeremy M. Phipps and Tim L. Vidale.
Bro. Jeremy M. Phipps is a Newark, NJ native and a 2003 graduate of Loyola Col-lege with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology.
Currently, he attends the University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey purs-ing a degree in Osteopathic Medicine/Sports Medicine. At UMDNJ-SOM he is the President of the Sports Medicine club and Vice-president of the American Acad-emy of Osteopathic Medicine. He also serves as a committee member of the American Academy of Osteopathic Medi-cine.
Brother Tim L. Vidale is a Youngstown, OH native and a 2006 graduate of: Florida A&M University, with a Bachelor of Health & Science degree. Currently, he is
enrolled in the Doctor of Physical Ther-apy program jointly sponsored by the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and Rutgers-Camden. At UMDNJ-SOM, he is active in the Stu-dent Physical Therapy Association (SPTA) on the local level and the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) on the national level.
Brothers Phipps & Vidale are currently employed at the University of Medicine & Dentistry Health & Wellness Center in New Jersey.
Pi Kappa Kappa Chapter “Adopt a Highway” Social Action Project
Sicklerville, NJ - 20 September 2008
The Brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Pi Kappa Kappa Chapter have re-energized their Social Action Programs. Biannu-ally over the past decade the Omega Men of Pi Kappa Kappa Chapter participate in annual Spring and Fall “Adopt-A-Highway” cleanup events in Winslow Township, New Jersey. During this
Pi Kappa Kappa Voter Registration Drive
On successive Saturdays in September, the Omega Men of Pi Kappa Kappa Chapter rolled up their sleeves and fanned out across Winslow Township, New Jersey to encourage its fellow community citizens to register to vote. Understanding and believ-ing that every vote counts, PiKK Omega men could be found at
grocery stores, strip malls, barbershops, recreational parks and facilities, and even door to armed with Bi-lingual registration forms, FAQ fact sheets, and ENTHUSIASM, encouraging Ameri-cans to exercise their right and civic duty to vote. Over the two week period, the chapter was successfully registered new voters of all races, ages, and gender.
event, the 1 mile stretch of their adopted street, Church Road, in Sicklerville, New Jersey is cleared of litter, blight, and debris.
The clean up efforts of the Omega Men of Pi Kappa Kappa Chap-ter along with other community volunteers and civic organizations promote the savings of taxpayer dollars, investing in a cleaner environment, civic responsibility, community camaraderie and pride. Photo on opposite page.
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Pi Kappa Kappa Installation of New Officers The Brothers of Omega Psi Phi Frater-nity, Inc., Pi Kappa Kappa Chapter re-cently installed their new officers for the 2009 fiscal year. Leading the chapter as Basileus is Brother Gil Shaw (Upsilon Chapter, 1966), succeeding Brother Ber-trand Harry who now welcomes the title of “Immediate Past Basileus.” The instal-lation ceremony
took place on Saturday, November 8 2008 at the Christ Care Unit Baptist Church in Sicklerville, NJ.
With family and friends in attendance, the chapter’s new administration was charged with advancing the spirit of positive change within the country and in Omega.
Aiding Brother Shaw in his first term will be Brother Thomas Highsmith, Vice Basileus, Bro. Mark Coston, Keeper of Records and Seal, Bro. Harold Hill, Keeper of Finance, Bro. Reverend Horace G. Worthington, Chapter Chaplain, and Bro. Joseph Harper, Public Relations Director.
In addition, the Men of Pi Kappa Kappa Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc would like to congratulate the fol-lowing:
Omega Man of the Year - Brother Mark Coston
Citizen of the Year - Mr. Karlon Hick-man, General Manager, Freeway Golf Course
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Xi Lambda Lambda Achievement Week Program
Lambda Gamma Gamma Talent Hunt Competition
On Saturday, November 1, 2008 the broth-ers of the Xi Lambda Lambda chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. held their 4th annual Achievement Week Program. The event was held at the Louis Kurtz Center Youth Bureau in Spring Valley, New York. We decided to partner with the CEJJES Institute, a cultural, educational, and re-search foundation dedicated to improving the educational and social conditions of disenfranchised people, particularly people of color. Our theme was “Education Today” and we not only recognized Omega Man of the Year and Citizen of the Year but added three additional awards. Rockland Person of the Year, given to an outstanding citizen in the Rockland County community who has been on the forefront of improving the qual-ity of life for minorities in the county. The Edmund Gordon Community Recognition Uplift Award (named after one of our broth-ers and founder of the CEJJES Institute), given to an educator who has displayed tremendous leadership over a sustained period of time and the CEJJES/Xi Lambda Lambda Education Award given to an edu-cator who is active currently in the Rock-land school system. The 2008 honorees were Bro. Tyrone Bailey (Omega Man of the Year), Dr. Willie Bryant (Rockland Person of the Year), Dr. Cliff Wood (Edmund Gordon Community Recognition Uplift Award), Ms. Jean Field (CEJJES/Xi Lambda Lambda Education Award, and Mr.
David Banks, Founder of the Eagle Acad-emy for Young Men and our featured speaker. We had artistic presentations by saxophonist, Bryant Jackson from Monroe-Woodbury High School in Central Valley, New York who warmed up the audience before the program begin with a montage of jazz classics and vocalist Wendoline De-Morin, a sophomore at Immaculate Heart Academy in Westwood, New Jersey who resides in the Rockland County village of New Hempstead. The Xi Lambda Achieve-ment Week Committee consisted of Bros.
Edmund Gordon, Gerald Inman, and Dennis McGloster. The honorees were also recognized by a couple of local politicians. New York State Assembly-woman, Ellen Jaffe and Rockland County Legislator, William Darden presented proclamations to all the hon-orees. The chapter also presented a Scroll of Honor to the Pi Psi Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc in recognition of 100 years of ser-vice.
XI Lambda Lambda Achievement Week Award Recipients
Upper Marlboro, MD – On Saturday, March 22, 2008, The Capital Region Ques of Lambda Gamma Gamma Chapter held its most entertaining Talent Hunt competi-tions. The competition, jointly hosted by Brothers Heath Cheek and Dwain Harrell, was held at Dr. Henry A. Wise High School in Upper Marlboro Maryland. The nationally mandated Talent Hunt program provides exposure, encour-agement and financial assistance to tal-ented young people participating in the Performing Arts.
The Omega Psi Phi Talent Hunt competi-tion originated in our fraternity’s Sixth District (North and South Carolina) in 1945. LGG takes great pride in the display and celebration of some of the Capital Region’s most talented high school aged
students. Forty Six talented High School students registered for the contest this year. Due to the overwhelming response, audi-tions were held to limit the contestants for the sake of timeliness on the day of the competition.
Thirty one very talented contestants par-ticipated in this year’s event and were judged in the categories of Vocal, Dance, Instrumental, Drama, and Visual Arts. This year, six students participated in the area of dance, 4 students participated in the area of instrumental music, three students par-ticipated in the area of drama, 8 students participated in the area of visual arts and ten students participated in the area of vocal music. The Chairman Darryl W. Bennett and the Co-Chairman Bro. Galen Kimbrue both; stressed that the event should be a positive, motivating learning experience. The contestants were encour-
aged to just “do their best”, without undue stress, no matter how proficient or experienced they are in their respec-tive area.
The contest began with an invocation by Bro. Heath Cheek, a welcome by the Basileus Bro. Sherman Charles and a brief description of the origins of the Talent Hunt competition by the immedi-ate past Basileus Bro. Angelo Riddick. Bro. Dwain Harrell and Bro. Heath Cheek kicked-off the competition.
The overall winner of the competition was Mr. Steven Garrision, a student at Wise High School. Steven was also the winner of the instrumental category. Steven gave a Gerald Albright like ren-dition of Jennifer Holiday’s “And I Am Telling You”.
Continued pg 19
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Mu Nu Chapter 2008 Achievement Week Observance Program
Mu Nu Chapter held its 2008 Achievement Week observance program recogniz-ing 26 students from more than 20 county schools. The keynote speaker for this year's awards and dinners program was the Honorable Bro. Robert R. Rigsby, Associ-ate Judge for the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. This year's program
featured a student honoree mixer before the program that included a buffet dinner at-tended by parents and family, as well as school and county officials. Also recog-nized this year were Mu Nu's community leadership honorees, Mr. Morris Hud-son, Citizen of the Year for his efforts as the B.R.O.T.H.E.R.S., Inc., mentoring pro-
gram founder and executive director, and Bro. William R. Roberts, Businessperson of the Year for his philanthropic support as the Verizon DC/MD Regional Presi-dent. Mu Nu named Bros. Clarence Tho-mas Jr. as Omega Man of the Year, Milton D. Harrison as the Founders Award recipient, and Dante Mayo as the Superior Service awardee.
Mu Nu Chapter Officers pose with Achievement Week - Student Award Recipients
Nu Lambda Lambda Participates in MLK Day of Service For some it’s another day off - a time to sleep in, enjoy an extended holiday, or sim-ply run some errands. For others, it’s a time of reflection, a time to honor, but above all, a time to serve. To help someone who’s in need, to better ourselves and our community is the challenge we continue to face yet few answer. On January 19, 2009, members of the Nu Lambda Lambda Chapter partici-pated in the MLK Day of Service hosted by New Jersey Cares. The Jersey Cares service project was comprised of revitalizing the Dr. Paul Rafalides Public School #33 in Jersey City, NJ. Dr. Paul Rafalides #33 is located in the Heights sections of Jersey City and has an enrollment of 400 students. Brothers of NLL not only utilized their car-dinal principles, but employed their artistic abilities by painting murals throughout the school. An added touch was added to one section of the mural where the ‘Omega Train’ (painted in fraternity colors) and the creation of ‘Captain Omega’ with a mission to battle illiteracy (a creation by Bro. Del-Rico Gales) was proudly painted.
The “MLK Service Day project at this school is a worthy cause. This is what ser-vice is all about.” Bro. DelRico Gales,
Chapter member and team captain for this project commented. NJ Cares is an active nonprofit organization that meets commu-nity needs through volunteering. Volun-teers of NJ Cares participate in team-oriented service projects throughout the area. NJ Cares alone, has created volunteer opportunities for more than 5,000 people who contributed more than 17,000 hours of service to local communities. Such volun-teer work includes tutoring children, en-riching the lives of seniors, feeding the
homeless, improving the environment and comforting medically fragile in-fants.
Bro. Gales concluded with these thoughts: “We’ve come together for a worthy cause; to better our community but more importantly support our kids…to create a more enriched environment to learn and thrive. Every child deserves this opportunity and we’re here to make sure of it. It’s only right for the men of Omega to continue to uplift our commu-nities and do our part.”
Bro. Tyrone Rose helps paint the ‘Omega Train’ as a NJ Staff Coordinator observes.
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Bro. Raoul ‘Ray” L. Carroll - Omega Chapter Brother Raoul ‘Ray” L. Carroll had an extensive financial and legal background and was appointed to two positions, which re-quired Senate confirmation, by President George Bush. In the most recent of these he served as President of the Government Na-tional Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae).
At Ginnie Mae he oversaw approximately $500 billion of outstanding securities, which are the most widely traded mortgage backed securities in the world. In the second political appointment he served as General Counsel at the Department of Veterans' Affairs.
Prior to that Mr. Carroll was a Partner in Bishop, Cook, Purcell & Reynolds, a 100+ attorney law firm based in Washington, D.C., where he specialized in the underwriting of
fixed income securities. Bro. Carroll started his own law firm in the early eighties. He was appointed by Presi-dent Carter as an Associate Member of the Board of Veterans' Appeals in 1980 and has also served as an Assistant US Attorney for the District of Columbia.
He was currently a General Partner at Christalex Partners and lived with his wife and two children in Washington, DC.
Brother Raoul “Ray” L. Carroll was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. at Morgan State University in Pi Chapter 1970 . He was the 40th mem-ber of the line Grand Funk Railroad 44.
Brother Raoul “ Ray” L. Carroll
Bro. Matthew C. Worrell - Omega Chapter
The Mu Omega Chapter in Philadelphia has truly lost one of their most cherished sons in that of Brother Matthew C. Worrell. Brother Worrell left our midst and entered Omega Chapter on Monday, February 2, 2009. His life is to be celebrated as one that unequivo-cally meant a great deal to his family, friends, and Fraternity Brothers.
Brother Worrell, affectionately known as “Matt,” was born on October 10, 1952, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to the late Lat-isha Worrell and Herman Worrell. Brother Worrell accepted Jesus Christ as his per-sonal Savior early in life at New Bethel Baptist Church, where he served as a Choir Member. He attended Sunday School at St. Phillips Baptist Church, where his grand-mother was a member. Growing up in North
Philadelphia, he attended and graduated from Mastbaum High School in 1970. Matt went on to Rutgers University where he received a Bachelor of Science degree, and was later employed by the City of Philadelphia’s Judi-cial Parole and Probations Department. Along with making an impact at the Parole and Probations Department, Matt immersed himself in the study of Martial Arts. A man dedicated to his craft, he received numerous accolades and was a Third-Degree Black Belt and served in the role of Sensei while main-taining the status of a life student.
Matt was an active and involved member of the community. He was an active member of the Parent Council of the Ivy Leaf Schools. Brother Worrell ventured to various schools within the Philadelphia area to inspire chil-dren to become productive citizens. He re-ceived a Certificate of Achievement from the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice; a Certificate of Membership from the Pennsylvania Association on Probation, Pa-role and Corrections, and held numerous awards and recognitions for his service. He received commendations from the First Judi-cial District of Pennsylvania Adult Probation and Parole Department for thirty-two years of service. Matt also received a Letter of Appre-ciation for his participation in the annual AIDS Walk-A-Thon held in Philadelphia.
Matt was initiated into the Fraternity through the “Mighty” Mu Omega Chapter, on July 2, 1978. He and his nine Line Brothers sol-diered through the Lampados Club and were known as the “Top-Notch-Ten.” From Matt’s
neophyte year up to 2009, he was thor-oughly immersed in the happenings of the Chapter, District, and International levels of the Fraternity. Brother Worrell received special recognition for outstanding service and dedication to Mu Omega Chapter. Matt served as Housing Chairman and was recently the Chapter’s Keeper of Peace. Brother Worrell served on the security team at the 2006 Second District Conference as well as the 2007 Leadership Confer-ence. By doing such a stellar job, Matt was part of the security team at the 2008 Grand Conclave in Birmingham, Alabama. A Life Member of the Fra-ternity, Matt had a colorful personality yet was unwavering in his belief of what true brotherhood was.
Matt enjoyed spending time with his family. He especially enjoyed an-nouncing the academic achievements of his sons, which became an antici-pated segment of Mu Omega Chapter meetings. He was well known for his participation in family functions. He liked to help the less fortunate and extended a helping hand whenever possible. Matt was a stickler for details and perfection. He was an excellent dancer, handyman, and he was the go-to person whenever you needed a help-ing hand or moral support. When it came to clothes and shoes, he had a style all his own – his very own.
Brother Matthew C. Worrell
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Brother Frank “Tick” Coleman - Omega Chapter
It is with great sadness that Lincoln Univer-sity announces the passing of Dr. Frank Tick Coleman class of 1935. Coleman, 97, of South Philadelphia, a trustee emeritus of Lincoln University, a retired school coun-selor, an Eagle Scout, and a star athlete, died of heart failure on Thursday, December 25, 2008 at Methodist Hospital in Philadel-phia.
He was a quarterback and football team captain at Lincoln. He also managed the basketball team, was on the wrestling team, was class president, and was a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated. Dr.
Coleman later earned a master's degree from the University of Pennsylvania's School of Social Work. He was a social worker and probation officer in Philadel-phia before becoming a counselor with the school district in 1949.
In 1981, after a career as counselor in the Philadelphia School District, he returned to Lincoln as director of alumni relations for seven years. For more than 10 years he was alumni representative on Lincoln's board of trustees. In 1984, Lincoln awarded Mr. Coleman an honorary doc-torate.
I am both saddened and at peace with the passing of Dr. Frank T. Coleman. I am sad to no longer be able to converse with him from time to time. However, I am at peace with the fact that he has been able to live such a fruitful life and am finally able to truly rest without discomfort. I am smiling at this time because I can tell my children when they get those assignments in History Class with the topics of “Legend” or “Hero” that I can say: Hey… I knew one! “Tick” was a great man that happened to precede me as Alumni Di-
rector. He was a wonderful role model that paved the way for me to do what I do with the greatest degree of integrity, compassion and professionalism; three things that some people aren’t able to exude all at once. He will truly be missed and I am elated to be one of many Lincoln Men to help continue his legacy.” –Kevan L. Turman, Alumni Director Since 1960, when Lincoln dropped its football team, Dr. Coleman had made unwavering efforts to reinstate the foot-ball team at his alma mater. When Lin-coln trustees voted to resurrect the foot-ball and create a marching band in 2006, Dr. Coleman donated $1,000 to the pro-gram. He was in the stands in August when Lincoln played its first game in 48 years, defeating George Mason Univer-sity, 34-7.
Mr. Coleman is survived by his daugh-ters, Evelyn White and Sarah Montgom-ery, five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. His wife of 29 years, Frances Olivis Coleman, died in 1961
Bro. Frank “Tick’ Coleman surrounded by Mu Omega Chapter Officers and other award recipients at Mu Omegas Achievement Week Celebration
Brother Frank “Tick” Coleman
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(Sag Harbor, New York) The Professional Men of Zeta Psi Chapter hosted “Omega After Dark: The Hamptons Edition” on Au-gust 23, 2008 in Sag Harbor, NY. The event was sponsored by Black Enterprise and the music was provided by Bro. Jon Byers (Jon Quick). Zeta Psi Chapter is the first black Greek organization to host an annual event in the Hamptons. Zeta Psi Chapter chose to have the event in Sag Harbor be-cause of its rich Black History. Sag Harbor was one of the first resort towns that wel-comed black couples and families. Today, it still boast a significant black population. Brian Monroe, Basileus of Zeta Psi, said, “Brothers of Omega Psi Phi were early pio-neers in establishing Sag Harbor as a vaca-tion resort for Black families. They endured intense discrimination yet persevered to cre-ate black communities in Sag Harbor.
Nu Upsilon Celebrates Achievement Week On Friday, November 21, 2008, the members of the Nu Upsilon Chapter and their guests convened at the Holiday In Select in Wil-mington, Delaware to celebrate the frater-nity’s Achievement Week, a time to pay homage to our founders and to honor citizens of our community and brothers of our chapter for their significant contributions toward the success of the activities of our chapter.
The evening began with a reception hour with heavy hors d’oeuvres and a variety of libations. The guests included community dignitaries, spouses, significant others, and our own 2nd District Representative, Bro. James W. Jordan and !1st Vice District Rep-resentative, Bro. Kenneth E Rodgers.
After the social hour, the program for the evening began and included an invocation, welcome and acknowledgement of special guests, and a synopsis of the history and sig-nificance of Achievement Week. One of the highlights of the evening was our keynote speaker, Bro. James W. Jordan, who deliv-ered a powerful message on the importance of community service and giving back to our respective communities. A key point of his oration was the “call” for us, especially Brothers of Omega, to be strong, active role models for our young people and each other. As expected, Bro. Jordan was eloquent in his delivery and articulate in his speech, with many encouraging words for all in atten-dance.
The second highlight of the evening was the
awarding of honors for members of the Nu Upsilon community and brothers in our chapter. Our Corporate Recognition Award was given to the Tommy Hilfiger Foundation that has been a major sponsor for our golf tournament for 6 years. Our Citizen of the Year Award was presented to Mr. Frank Hawkins, Associate Director of AIDS Delaware, for his many signifi-cant contributions towards the education on and prevention of HIV/AIDS. The Nu Upsilon Omega Man of the Year Award was bestowed upon Bro. Troy M. Grant
(Summer 2003, Omicron Rho) for his leadership, active participation in activi-ties, and exemplary performance as the chapter’s KRS. Additionally, eleven other Brothers of Nu Upsilon were hon-ored with Basileus Service Awards for outstanding service.
As is customary, the chapter concluded the evening with the singing of our hymn, Omega Dear! What an enjoyable fellowship experience for our guests and the Brothers!
District Representative Bro. James W. Jordan; Bro. Troy, Vivian, & Patricia Grant; and Basileus Bro. J. Gregory Scudder
Zeta Psi Chapter Host “Omega After Dark”
Zeta Psi Chapter Brothers with their guest at “Omega After Dark” event.
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Mu Omega Chapter 2008 Achievement Week Observance
The Brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., “Mighty” Mu Omega Chapter in Philadelphia recently held their 2009 Achievement Week observance at the Mandell Theater on the campus of Drexel University. The program took place on November 30, 2008 and was the culmina-tion of several days of uplifting activities in the surrounding community. Under the leadership of the Achievement Week Com-mittee Chairman, Brother James Mock, the committee brought new vigor to the man-dated program set aside to seek out and give due recognition to individuals who have made a noteworthy contribution to-ward improving the quality of life for Afri-can Americans.
This year’s Achievement Week activities began on November 24, 2008 at the Morrison Elementary School where the committee rewarded a fourth grade class with a certificate for best attendance in the month of October. With many Mu Omega Chapter brothers in attendance, the lucky fourth graders were treated to a pizza party along with delicious Rita’s Water Ice. The following day the committee gave the same treat to a fifth grade class at the Car-nell Elementary School for their exemplary attendance in the month of October.
With this year’s Achievement Week theme being, “Three Looks – One Focus: Family, Fraternity, and Friendship,” Brother Mock did not have to look far for a keynote speaker who could eloquently expound on this particular subject matter. Brother Mock and his committee unani-
mously chose Brother John M. Younge to give the keynote address at the Achieve-ment Week Program. A distinguished mem-ber of Mu Omega Chapter, Brother Younge serves as a judge on the Court of Common Pleas. Being raised in the southwest section of Philadelphia and graduating from Central High School in 1973, Brother Younge re-ceived a firm foundation in the city’s public school system. Brother Younge soon after earned a degree in Business Administration from Boston University in 1977 and in 1981, he received his Juris Doctor Degree from the Howard University School of Law. Challenging the audience to keep their lives in perspective, Brother Younge emphasized the need to give back to the community no matter how small the deed.
With so many people doing ex-traordinary things in the city, the Achieve-ment Week Committee recognized Michael Coard as the 2008 Citizen of the Year for his unwavering commitment to the African American community. A criminal defense attorney and community activist, Michael is a founding member of Avenging The An-cestors Coalition (ATAC). ATAC is the organization that helped lead the historic and successful battle in forcing the federal government to commemorate the nine Afri-can descendents enslaved by President George Washington at America’s first “White House,” which was located at the current site of the new Liberty Bell Center. Michael also challenged those in attendance to be aware of past and present injustices as we move forward in the changing face of American society.
New to the Achievement Week program is the Founders Stand-In recognition. This award pays homage to those stalwart brothers who remain dedicated to the true intentions and spirit of the Fraternity’s four Founding Fathers. The Mu Omega brothers who received this honor were: Brother George Lee for Founder Bishop Edgar A. Love, Brother Harold Miller for Founder Dr. Oscar J. Cooper, Brother Gladstone Booth for Founder Professor Frank Coleman, and Brother Dr. Floyd Baker for Founder Dr. Ernest E. Just.
Another addition to the pro-gram is the Four Cardinal Principle Award. This award goes to those brothers who have proven themselves worthy by holding firm to the ideals of manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift. The Mu Omega brothers who received this honor were: Brother Robert Manning for Manhood, Brother Darryl Blackwell for Scholarship, Brother Kenneth Jackson for Perseverance, and Brother William Smith for Uplift. The Penn Area Neighborhood Association (PANA) Award was given to Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Queen. The final award presented was that of Mu Omega Chapter’s “Omega Man of the Year.” This honor was bestowed upon Brother Steven C. Oakman. Brother Oakman has been a major force within the chapter for many years, and yet he graciously gave accolades to various brothers with whom he respects. In customary fashion, the brothers in attendance rose to their feet and sung the Fraternity hymn, “Omega Dear,” to end the evening.
Mu Omega Chapter Basileus, Jesse Reason, poses with 2008 Achievement Week Award Recipients
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Lambda Gamma Gamma’s Annual Youth Leadership Conference
Washington, DC – The Capital Region Ques of Lambda Gamma Gamma held its third annual Youth Leadership Conference on Saturday, September 27, 2008 at the Blackburn Center at Howard University. The conference which was chaired by Bro. Corey Sanders, was an overwhelming success. LGG was honored to have as a speaker the Honorable Representative Brother William Clyburn Jr., Democrat, South Carolina. Over 110 youth attended the conference this year. The focus was the enhancement of the academic and interper-sonal skills of our youth. The theme for this year’s conference was “Success is a Choice”.
The conference began promptly at 8:30 am with a breakfast served by the brothers of LGG with Bro. Lorenzo Catten taking the lead as he usually does. After the hearty breakfast the participants were divided into three groups. There were 3 break-out ses-sions and one plenary session wherein there was an open and candid discussion about all aspects of life.
During the three break-out sessions there was a focus on “Gender Related Issues”, “Interviewing Skills”, “The Habits of Highly Effective Teens”, “Goal Setting and Discipline”, “Preparing For The Next Step and “Interviewing Skills and Appro-priate Dress. The reverend Kanika Magee lead the discussions about gender issues related to young ladies and Bro. William Clyburn Jr. lead the discussion about gen-der issues related to young men in the first break-out session. During this session the youth discussed issues related to sex, STD’s, personal hygiene and peer pressure relative to sex.
The second break-out sessions which fo-cused on “Goal Setting and Discipline”, the “Fundamentals of Finance” and “Preparing for the Next Step” were lead by Bro. Vroman Wright, Bro. Christopher Pirtle, and Bro. W. Penn Troy respectively.
The participants received a lively ear full of inspiration and direction from Bro. Wright. Bro. Wright stressed that our aspi-rations must be set high. “Don’t be limited by the expectations of others” stated Bro. Wright. Moreover, having the discipline, perseverance and courage in the face of
many distractions will prove extremely valu-able in life.
The fundamentals of finance session, lead by Bro. Christopher Pirtle and Shaina Edney, was a very pointed expose on the economy to include the Banking industry and Wall Street. Bro. Pirtle and Mrs. Edney also discussed personal finance including credit and the responsibilities thereof, credit scores and the overexposure to debt.
Brother William Troy spoke to the 11th and 12th grade participants about planning for college. Some of the topics that Bro. Troy discussed were career planning wherein the students were asked what areas of study they were considering. The participants were re-minded to plan for a career and not a job. Graduating seniors were advised that they should have already applied for financial aid and grants. LGG will maintain the names and contact information for all seniors and assist with the applications, provide web links and counsel for all graduating seniors.
Ms. Zazy Lopez, a Civil Rights Attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice led a lively discussion about the “Habits of Highly Effec-tive Teens”. Students were given a powerful overview of the habits in their own language. The students also learned the essential princi-ples and habits and how to apply them to the tough issues and life-changing decisions they face.
Bro. Lawrence Shaw led the discussion on interviewing skills and appropriate dress. “First impressions are lasting impressions”, stated Bro. Shaw. Students were reminded of the importance of projecting a professional,
neat and clean image when seeking employment. The participants were reminded to arrive early for interviews and to ask questions during interviews.
Last but not least, Willie Williams, for-mer professional football player for the Seattle Seahawks and Pittsburgh Steelers spoke about what it takes to be a defensive back in the NFL. Willie stated that his hard upbringing fully prepared him for the mental toughness that is required of an NFL defensive back. Willie was an undersized defen-sive back who never allowed anyone to tell him that he could not succeed due to his lack of size. Mr. Williams was a member of both the 1995 and 2005 Pittsburgh Steelers Super Bowl teams. Currently, Mr. Williams is the CEO of the "Show Them We Care 27" foundation.
As a reward for attending the workshop, sponsors provided a Wii, an X-Box 360 gaming console, and two medial players for raffle. The participants enjoyed hav-ing the opportunity to ask questions about the personal issues impacting their lives and the Ques of LGG enjoyed having the opportunity to provide the uplift that our youth so desperately need.
Basileus, Bro. Sherman Charles closed the conference by ensuring that the stu-dents understood the importance of edu-cation and perseverance. Bro. Charles further reminded the participants and LGG that the youth are our future and that LGG is committed to programs that positively impact their lives
Bro. Corey Sanders and Youth Leadership Conference Students
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A Double Dose of “Uplift” from Nu Upsilon Chapter The Nu Upsilon Chapter has begun the 2008 – 2009 fraternal year in strong fash-ion with two of its “signature” Social Ac-tions projects – Family Fun and Educa-tional Fair (Bro. Daryl B. Brown, Chair-man) and Toys for Tots/Breakfast with Santa (Bro. Michael Walls, Chairman)!
As an integral part of its Achievement Week Observance, Nu Upsi-lon sponsored its 4th Annual Family Fun and Educational Fair on Saturday, Novem-ber 8, 2008. This project attracted 75 young people from the neighboring com-munity of the William “Hicks” Anderson Community Center in Wilmington, DE. Our young people were involved in a vari-ety of team and individual activities such as relay races and obstacle course. A coed basketball skills competition was also held for different age groups. Trophies and gift cards were awarded to the winners of the competitions. Adults participated in a financial planning workshop conducted by Basileus J. Gregory Scudder. At the mid-point of the day’s festivities, the families were served lunch which included chicken wings, hot dogs, hamburgers, bagged snacks, and drinks.
After lunch, a stepping exhibition was held featuring the ladies of the Wilmington (DE) Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and members of the Nu Upsilon Step Team. Both teams were powerful and enjoyed by all.
The day’s highlights were the all-new Black Trivia Competition and our 4th An-nual Spelling Bee, both of which were organized by age groups. The Black Trivia Competition included questions related to history and current events, and the Spelling Bee included words such as algorithm and buoyancy. The top three winners of each competition received cash prizes totaling $750.
Six weeks after the Family Fun and Educa-tional Fair on Saturday, December 20, 2008, Nu Upsilon held its 6th Annual Toys For Tots/Breakfast with Santa affair at the Kingswood Community Center on the east side of Wilmington, DE. Sixty children (ages 5 – 16) and thirty parents joined the brothers of Nu Upsilon for this holiday activity. The morning began with engag-ing the families in arts and crafts activities
upon their arrival. Shortly thereafter, break-fast consisting of eggs, sausage, hash browns, biscuits, and juices was served. As the fami-lies finished their meal, the wives and signifi-cant others of the brothers conducted a Kwanzaa activity and played a few rounds of bingo, while we all waited for the arrival of Saint Nick. When Santa arrived, each of the young people had his/her picture taken with
Santa and received a clothing item, a toy, and a book.
Again, the brothers of Nu Upsilon are grateful for opportunities to provide “Excellence in Service . . .” and for positive exposure for our chapter and our fraternity.
Basketball Skills Competition Winners
Nu Upsilon Chapter’s Toys for Tots Campaign
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An Omega Man: Morgan State University’s First Graduate
Morgan State University was the first colle-giate institution in Maryland to award lib-eral arts degrees to African Americans. Founded as the Centenary Biblical Institute in 1867, Morgan began theological instruc-tion to a class of nine African American men in the basement of the Sharp Street Methodist Church in Baltimore City. In 1890 the Centenary Biblical Institute be-came Morgan College and began offering liberal arts degrees. The college’s first graduating class of 1895 consisted of one person: George W. F. McMechen.
George W. F. McMechen was born in Wheeling, West Virginia to George and Mildred McMechen on October 29, 1871. He was raised with his two sisters in Wheel-ing and attended the public schools there. In 1891 McMechen left home for Baltimore and matriculated at Morgan College, which at that time was located at Fulton and Ed-monson avenues on the west side of Balti-more City.
As a student McMechen enjoyed sports. He played baseball throughout his under-graduate career. McMechen was the first graduate to earn a degree from Morgan College in 1895. After graduation, he served Morgan as the Graduate Manager of
Athletics. He later left Baltimore to con-tinue his professional education at Yale, where in 1898, McMechen earned a law degree.
After graduating from Yale, McMechen began practicing law in Evansville, Indiana. He married Anna Lee Mason of Illinois in 1900, and in 1904 returned to Baltimore with his wife and two daughters. McMechen was admitted to the Maryland Bar on May 10, 1904, and opened a practice with W. Ashbie Hawkins. The practice often battled racial discrimination in Balti-more City. In 1910 McMechen and his family, which included his wife and four daughters, integrated Baltimore City’s his-torically all-white McCulloh Street. The move required McMechen to take his case before the Baltimore City Council and the Maryland Court of Appeals.
During the early 1920s, McMechen was initiated into the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. He is one of the early initiates of Pi Omega Chapter, the first Omega graduate chapter in the state of Maryland. Pi Omega was established on November 17, 1921. Linwood G. Koger, the fraternity’s first Director of the National Achievement Week Program, was Pi Omega’s first Basileus.
Bishop Edgar A. Love and Dr. Robert L. Gill were among the many notable members of the chapter. Pi Omega was responsible for the establishment of Pi Chapter on the Morgan College campus in 1923.
In 1944, McMechen became the first Black member of the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners when he was appointed by Maryland Governor Theodore McKeldin. In addition to Omega Psi Phi, McMechen was also active in another fraternal order. He was the first Balti-morean elected Grand Exalted Ruler of the Independent Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the World.
McMechen was the most cele-brated Morgan College alumnus of his generation. He later returned to Morgan and served on Morgan’s Board of Trustees for many years. He entered Omega Chapter on February 22, 1961. In recognition of his Mor-gan service, the building where Mor-gan’s School of Business was erected in 1972 was named in McMechen’s honor.
Submitted by Brother Edwin Johnson
From Friday, November 7th thru Sunday, November 9th, the Alumni Brothers of Pi Chapter celebrated their 85th Anniversary at Morgan State University. Pi Chapter was founded on October 28, 1923 at what was then Morgan College (now Morgan State University) in Balti-more, Maryland. The founding ef-fort was led by Brother Linwood G. Koger, the fraternity’s first National Achievement Week Director, and the first Basileus of Pi Omega Chap-ter, the Baltimore City graduate chapter. Pi Chapter is the oldest undergraduate chapter of the fra-ternity in Maryland.
The anniversary celebration in-cluded: a golf outing, a casino night, several workshops, a black tie gala ball, and a church worship ser-
vice. Over 150 Pi Chapter Brothers participated in the events, and more than 500 guests were in attendance. Among the Pi Chapter Brothers hon-ored posthumously included: Joe Black (Pi 1947), and J. Haywood Harrison (Pi 1950). Other honorees included: Leroy Battle (Pi 1948), George K. McKinney (Pi 1954), Earl Graves (Pi 1954), Lonnie Liston Smith (Pi 1958), Hughlyn F. Fierce (Pi 1959), Water Amprey (Pi 1963), Samuel Art Williams (Pi 1967), Theo-dore “TC” Newman (Pi 1970), Wil-liam R. Roberts (Pi 1974), and Peter C. Harvey (Pi 1976).
The celebration generated over $10,000 for the Judge Linwood G. Koger, Sr. Founder’s Memorial Scholarship, which was established within the Morgan State University
Pi Chapter Celebrates its 85th Chapter Anniversary Foundation in 2003. Pi Chapter Alumni also established the Pi Chapter Alumni Group under the governance of the Morgan State University National Alumni Association. More in-formation is available at: www.pichapters85th.com.
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Bro. Dr. Andrew Ray Honored by the Alpha’s On Saturday, October 25, 2008, the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc…Eta Rho Chapter of Rochester, New York, presented its First Annual Charles J.L.Banks Community Service Award to Dr. Andrew A Ray. The award is a trib-ute to the late Charles Banks, an Alpha Man who distinguished himself as a musician, educator and a tenacious ser-vant to humanity.
The award was presented at the Alpha’s 48th Dr. Charles T. Lunsford Black and Gold Scholarship Gala which was held at the Doubletree Conference Center. Over 500 attendees witnessed what has been called a “unique/special” event. During the last half century, rarely has a Greek Letter Fraternal Organizations bestowed its legacy awards on men who are not members of that respective or-ganization. The constant conversation of the evening centered around “Dr. Ray is an exceptional man”, “ He has to be extraordinary in many ways to get the Alpha’s to extend the big hand of recog-nition across the Fraternity Chasm” and more.
Dr. Ray has been honored on many occasions for his extensive work in edu-
cation, Civil Rights, advisor ship to the Faith Community, mentoring, volunteer-ism, and other aspects of community ser-vice. In accepting this award, Dr. Ray noted that it had special significance due to for whom it is named. Dr. Ray shared that when he was experiencing several periods of difficulty, Mr. Banks was in the fore-front of those who offered words of advice and encouragement. He shared that Mr. Banks’
calm demeanor always served to facilitate one moving beyond the obstacles at hand.
Mr. Jesse W. Allen, Vice President of the Eta Rho Chapter and the presenter for the evening, noted segments of Dr. Ray’s sub-stantial works locally and national. Mr. Allen stated that Dr. Ray having been a Presidential Fellow in Congress, a Foreign
Affairs Scholar in the Department of State, Teacher of the Year, Administrator of the Year and a host of on going achievements in the Rochester area, is more than
deserving of this recognition. He then jok-ingly said “the major mistake you made was pledging Omega”. The quick witted Dr. Ray responded, “let this Omega Man refer you to a revered Alpha Man…Dr.
Martin Luther King, Jr., who strongly shared with the world that much of his being was inspired by Dr. Benjamin E. Mays
an Omega Man and former President of Morehouse College. The audience erupted in applause and laughter at the friendly interchange.
Dr. Ray, a disarmingly modest man, eloquently put it all in perspective when he said: “This award is a touching cap-stone for which I will be eternally grate-ful and humbled. When a moment such as this occurs in ones lifetime, there is an unalloyed
honesty that tells you, while celebrating the ephemeral moment is in order, don’t bask too long in he limelight of accom-plishment, when there is much work yet to be done”.
While Dr. Ray has retired from one job, his enduring vitality and commitment to
improving the quality of life for his fellowman remains strong.
Article by Jim Allen, Staff writer for About Time Magazine
Lambda Gamma Gamma Talent Hunt (cont. from pg. 10)
Steven’s full, round and soulful sound along with his hypnotizing vibrato im-pressed the judges and the audience.
Ms. Jazmyn Richardson, a student at Suitland High School was the second place overall winner. Jaymyn was the winner of the drama category. Jazmyn’s dramatic rendition of a psychopathic murder chilled the audience. She por-trayed a deeply disturbed teen who while being interrogated by authorities
eerily explains the reason for cold blooded murder of one of her classmates.
Ms. Courtney Reed, also a student at Suit-land High was the third place overall win-ner. Courtney’s powerful and athletic mod-ern dance performance was executed with a hint of a classical ballet influence. Court-ney gave a very fluid and energetic per-formance with many controlled isolations, kicks and leaps.
The contestants received over $2,000 in scholarships (bonds) and cash prizes. Ste-
ven will move on to compete for addi-tional prizes at the 2nd District Confer-ence in Atlantic City, New Jersey on May 3, 2008. The winner at the district level will go on to compete at the national level in Birmingham, Alabama in July 2008.
The Talent Hunt program has been very rewarding to the brotherhood of LGG contemporarily and to the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. over the last 60 years. The brothers of LGG will continue to search for and support our gifted youth!
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Bro. Dr. Sydney L. Cousin - Superintendent of Schools Howard County, MD
Howard County's Superintendent Sydney L. Cousin began his career in education 37 years ago as a history teacher at Lombard Junior High School in Baltimore. After receiving his master's degree in city planning, he spent a year as a Capital Program Planner for the Baltimore City Department of Planning. He
rejoined the Baltimore City school system in 1973 as a Long-Range Planner in the Division of Physical Plant Planning and Programming. He was promoted to Staff Director of the Division in 1977.
In 1987, the Howard County Public School System was fortunate to hire Dr. Cousin as Director of School Construction and Plan-ning. He was promoted to Associate Su-perintendent of Finance and Operations two years later and then to Deputy Super-intendent/Chief Operating Officer in 2001. As Deputy Superintendent, Dr. Cousin was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the school system, which included over-sight of 72 facilities, 6300 employees, and capital and operating budgets totaling over $400 million.
In July 2003, Dr. Cousin "retired" from the Howard County Public School System and was hired by the Washington, DC Public School System as an Associate Superinten-dent /Chief of Facility Management. He returned to HCPSS in March 2004 as In-
terim Superintendent. On June 22, 2004, the Board of Education approved a four-year contract as Superintendent to Dr. Cousin.
Dr. Cousin is a graduate of Morgan State University. He received his mas-ter's degree from the University of Penn-sylvania 1972, and his Doctorate in Education from Temple University in 1986.
Dr. Cousin is a county resident who has served on the Board of Directors and various committees of the Howard County Chamber of Commerce. He also has served on the Board of Directors and the Finance Committee of Leadership Howard County, and as a member of other Howard County boards
Bro. Dr. Sydney L. Cousin was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity at Morgan State College, Pi Chapter in 1964. He is currently a member of Tau Pi Chapter in Howard County, MD.
Bro. Dr. Sydney L. Cousin
Bro. Dr. Mickey L. Burnim - President Bowie State University
Dr. Mickey L. Burnim has served as ninth president of Bowie State University (BSU) since September 1, 2006. An economist by training, Burnim has three degrees in eco-nomics - a BA degree and an MA degree from the University of North Texas, and a PhD from the University of Wisconsin at Madison. He has written papers and pub-lished several scholarly articles in labor eco-nomics and public finance.
Under his leadership, Bowie State has ex-ceeded enrollment targets for two consecu-tive years, which led to the University Sys-tem of Maryland (USM) designating it a
growth institution; built stronger relation-ships with alumni that led to significantly increased alumni participation and giving; revitalized and strengthened the BSU Foundation; improved campus communi-cations; created a new Board of Visitors as well as new core values and a new shared vision for the University community; es-tablished a second doctoral program, Doc-tor of Applied Science in Computer Sci-ence; added other new degree programs; successfully launched its largest compre-hens ive fundra i s ing campaign ; and strengthened the academic leadership by hiring a new provost and four out-standing deans.
Burnim serves on the board of directors for the National Association for Equal Oppor-tunity in Education (NAFEO), the execu-tive committee for the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities, and he recently completed his term on the board of the American Association of State Col-leges and Universities (AASCU). He was recently elected to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) President's Council for Division II. Burnim is a mem-
ber of the Central Intercollegiate Ath-letic Association (CIAA) Board of Di-rectors and The Bowie Rotary Club. In addition, he serves as an educational leadership consultant to various entities.
Prior to arriving at Bowie State Univer-sity, Dr. Burnim served as the eighth chancellor for 11 years at Elizabeth City State University (ECSU). He also previ-ously served as provost and vice chan-cellor for academic affairs at North Carolina Central University. Earlier in his career, he worked as assistant vice president for academic affairs in the General Administration of the Univer-sity of North Carolina; as a staff econo-mist at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development; and as a fac-ulty member at Florida State University.
A native of Teague, Texas, the president and his wife, LaVera Levels Burnim, have two adult children, a son-in-law, a daughter-in-law, and three grandchil-dren. Bro. Dr. Mickey Burnim is a member of Gamma Pi Chapter.
Bro. Dr. Mickey L. Burnim
THE OMEGAN Page 21
Bro. James (Scrappy) Jordan 31st District Representative 6505 Collamer Road East Syracuse, NY 13057 O: 315-438-4426 C: 315-575-1397 [email protected] Bro. Milton D. Harrison District KRS 21106 Camomile Court Germantown, MD 20876 H: 301-5040269 O: 301-803-1685 C: 301-758-1386 [email protected] Quette: Shelia Bro. Christopher T. Curry District Chaplain 10 Mary Ella Drive Newark, Delaware 19711 H: 302-733-7666 C: 215-512-1631 [email protected] QUETTE: Rosa OPEN Undergraduate Representative Bro. Stephen Schmidt District Marshall PO Box 508 Mt Vernon, NY 10551-0508 H: 914-665-0693 C: 914-805-7136 F: 914-668-7168 [email protected] Bro. Ron Moffitt Dir. Of Public Relations Emeritus 6 Lippincott Avenue Burlington, New Jersey 08016 H: 609-239-1030 O: 609-702-7272 ext. 119 C: 609-352-4870 F: 609-702-1080
OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY, INC. SECOND DISTRICT CONFERENCE
MARYLAND DELAWARE PENNSYLVANIA NEW YORK NEW JERSEY
2008-2009 EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
Bro. Kenneth Rodgers 1st Vice District Representative 1000 Donington Court Bowie, MD 20721 H: 301-249-4821 C: 202-439-8519 O: 703-681-3188 [email protected] [email protected] Bro. Bertrand Harry District Counselor 1019 N. 64th Street Philadelphia, PA 19151 H: 856-979-3358 O: 856-596-7778 x226 [email protected] Bro. Marvin C. Dillard Immediate Past District Representative 284 Katherine Street Englewood, NJ 07631 H: 201-567-9819 HF: 201-567-8306 C: 201-220-1897 [email protected] QUETTE: Robin OPEN Undergraduate Representative Bro. Keith Clark Assistant DKF 3325 Longbow Dr. Pittsburgh, PA.15235 H: 412-823-0917 C: 412-225-5487 O: 412-681-6601 Bro. Maurice Calhoun Co-Chairman INFORMATION MANAGEMENT 8501 Driscoll Drive Bowie, MD 20720 H: 301-352-0304 C: 240-462-5605 [email protected]
Bro. Christopher Banks 2nd Vice District Representative 1106 Gilham Street Philadelphia, PA. 19111 C: 267-632-5181
Bro. James E. Hicks, Jr District KF 11336 Drumsheugh Lane H: 301-808-3320 O: 202-205-3603 C: 301-641-9755 [email protected] Bro. Zanes E. Cypress, Jr. Dir. Of Public Relations 3108 Auchentoroly Terrace Baltimore, MD 21217 H: 410-728-3292 C: 410-365-2186 [email protected] QUETTE: Donna OPEN Undergraduate Representative Bro. George T. Smith, Sr. District Photographer 1233 East Barringer Street Philadelphia, PA 1911 H: 215-548-1971 F: 215-424-3517 C: 267-973-8966 [email protected] QUETTE: Arlis Bro. Alan W. Junius Assistant DKRS 348 Wayne Ave. Lansdowne, PA. 19050 H: 610-284-5552 O: 302-327-3606 C: 215-519-8105 [email protected] Quette; Evelyn
2007-2008 SECOND DISTRICT COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN
Page 22 THE OMEGAN
ACHIEVEMENT WEEK Bro. Michael Epps 36 Irish Lane Galloway NJ 08205 H: 609-748-4328 C: 609-412-1208 [email protected] BUSINESS & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Bro. Kenneth R. Jackson 869 N 24th Street Philadelphia, PA 19130 H: 215-769-4875 O: 215-255-8564 C: 215-870-0452 [email protected] LIFE MEMBERSHIP Bro. Ashley Turnbull P.O. Box 2791 Fairlawn NJ 07410 H: 973-523-4697 O: 718-510-0538 C: 973-207-4732 F: 973-278-2951 [email protected] RECOMMENDATIONS Bro. Rodney L. Olden 155 Rogers Drive New Rochelle, NY 10804 H: 914-632-1941 [email protected] RECLAMATION Bro. Phillip Edmonds H: 301-806-7933 [email protected] RETENTION Bro. Anthony Zanfordino 7112 Desert Peace Ct. Brandywine, MD 20613 H: 301-782-3495 O: 202-857-5212 C: 703-307-5562 [email protected]
REWARDS PROGRAM OPEN
SOCIAL ACTION Bro. Kendall Smalls 670 St. Marks Ave Apt. B Brooklyn, NY 11216 H: 718-778-5281 O: 973-322-6305 C: 646-739-4956 [email protected]
ARTIFACTS & MEMORABILIA Bro. Andrew Huff PO Box 700 Buffalo, NY14215 H: 716-228-2911 [email protected]
CONSTITUTION & BY-LAWS Bro. Darren Fails 90 Downing Street #24 Brooklyn, NY 11238 H: 718-622-7486 O: 718-752-4579 C: 917-562-3366 [email protected] NAACP & UNCF Bro. Melvin McCottry 3801 Clairton Dr Mitchellville, MD 20721-2141 H:301-352-6828 [email protected]
POLITICAL ACTION Bro. Teddy Taylor 506Dennis Magruder Drive Capitol Heights, MD 20774 H: 301-352-0304 C: 240-462-5605 [email protected] SCHOLARSHIP Bro. Akima Rodgers 9110 Talifield Court Lanham, MD 20706 H: 202-270-8040 rodgers@[email protected] UNDERGRADUATE/ CHAPTER ADVISOR Bro. Donzell Tiller 1513 Elson Rd Brookhaven PA 19015 H: 610-876-2538 O: 610-399-2398 [email protected]
RESOURCES & SERVICES Bro. Anthony McIntyre 7 Lilac Lane Bordentown, NJ. 08505 C: 716-228-2911 [email protected]
TALENT HUNT Bro. Carlton Lampkins 133 Lauren Place Newark, DE 19702 H: 302-283-0573 O: 302-323-2705 C: 302-545-8044 [email protected] BUDGET & FINANCE Bro. Claudie M. Shelton, Jr. 104 Crosstimber Way Frederick MD 21702 H: 301-695-5450 O: 301-619-4461 C: 301-964-9763 [email protected] INFORMATION MANAGEMENT Bro. Angelo Riddick, Co-Chairman 1210 T Street NW Washington, DC 20009 H: 202-299-0498 O: 202-685-2107 C: 202-465-2811 [email protected] SITE SELECTION Bro. Ben Jeffers 225 Milnor Ave. Syracuse, N Y 13224-1667 H: 315-446-0786 O: 315-445-1454 C: 315-427-3841 F: 315-446-0786 [email protected] MEMBERSHIP Bro. Harrison Potts 307 Beaver Court Mullica Hill, NJ 08062 H: 856-223-2877 C: 610-608-5294 F: 856-223-2868 [email protected] Bro. Robert Manning Co-Chairman 1802 St. Georges Road Dresher, PA 19025 H: 215-657-1274 O: 215-684-5091 F: 215-657-3976
2006-2007 SECOND DISTRICT CORRIDOR REPRESENTATIVES
THE OMEGAN Page 23
IT IS YOUR DUTY TO PROTECT OMEGA AT ALL TIMES!!!
The following men have been EXPELLED from the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and no longer have any rights or privileges afforded to the ‘Men Of Omega”.
Allron Monsanto, Psi Iota Charles Jackson, Iota Epsilon
The Brothers listed below are currently SUSPENDED from the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. pending further investigation. (If you’re suspended, you’re the reason!!!)
Larry Cowan Travis Mayfield, Psi Epsilon Kelvin Robinson, Chi Delta Melvin Hill, Chi Delta Demetrius McDade Nigel Rawlins - Kappa Omicron Jeffery Coles - Kappa Omicron Lawrence McKenzie - Kappa Omicron Donnie D. Sauls - Kappa Omicron Samuel Korpoi,- Psi Epsilon David Munford - Kappa Omicron Andre Smith, Chi Delta Edward Murray, Nu Nu Jean Sylla, Chi Delta Ezra Naughton, Rho Lambda Lambda Alexander Zander - Omega Delta Delta
These men should not be admitted into any formal fraternity meetings. Failure to adhere to these directives of the District Representative will result in the SUSPENSION of the Brother or Chapter who is in violation of the same. THIS IS SERIOUS BUSINESS!!!
OMEGA WILL SURVIVE BECAUSE BROTHERS CARE!!!
Bro. Edward High Corridor 1 Representative 1507 Kingsgate Street Mitchellville, MD 20721 H: 301-249-4621 O: 202-418-8224 C: 301-613-4621 [email protected]
Bro. Ashley Turnbull Corridor 4 Representative P.O. Box 2791 Fairlawn, NJ 07410 H: 973-523-4697 O: 718-510-0538 C: 973-207-4732 [email protected]
Bro. Derek Lowery Corridor 2 Representative 296 Chippenham Lane Hockessin, DE. 19707 H: 302-234-3421 C: 302-562-4228 [email protected] Bro. Kevin Woodhouse Corridor 5 Representative 790 Concourse Village West Apt. 9M Bronx, NY 10451 H: 718-538-1456 O: 212-668-2870 x 3626 [email protected] Bro. Carlton Heywood Corridor 7 Representative 2914 Norwood Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15214 H: 412-321-5547 O: 412-665-5022 C: 412-726-7831 [email protected]
Bro. Robert Manning Corridor 3 Representative 1802 St. Georges Road Dresher, PA 19025 H: 215-657-1274 O: 215-684-5091 F: 215-657-3976 OF: 215-684-5507 [email protected] Bro. Avon White Corridor 6 Representative P.O. Box 762 Buffalo, NY 14207 H: 716-837-8485 C: 716-812-2520 [email protected]
2008-2009 SECOND DISTRICT CORRIDOR REPRESENTATIVES
