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: I WQe i\rnrtn ~ptrtt I : VOL. XIII
SEPTEMBER, 1917
NO. 1
OPENING THE H OUSES Without doubt the question uppermost in the minds of all Acacians is what are they doing in the chapter? The returns to this office from the chapters have been all too meager, and as a result the editor is not in a position to convey very enlightening information. Those that have reported have simply said that the prospects for the coming year are far from being bright, as Brothers-to the average of about 12 from each chapter· reporting-have entered the service as follows, and then comes a long list of the men who have so willingly answered the calJ our country has seen fit to make. Into every branch of service they have gone, and their names are to be found in all of the departments and filling every position from the head of aviation down to high private in the rear ranks. Willingly and cheerfulJy they have gone in the defense of those principles so pre-eminently American, defending a nation which offers the best basis for the establishment of a true democracy. Regardless of our own views, we cannot help but feel thrilled when we see our brothers rushing to the colors, manifesting the spirit that Acacia has helped to foster. We must admire the high ideals which have influenced our men to respond so nobly to the first call, and down deep in our hearts we who remain at home must feel that these men are sincerely fighting in defense of our homes, our liberties and our high ideals of justice. The knowledge of the ideals which have influenced our brothers causes us to admire, respect and honor every man in the service. This devotion to these men can best be exemplified by a truly representative contribution to this little publication, which will be mailed free to every man in the service. Your chapter is under a debt of gratitude to these men who have sacrificed so much to defend your home. You men in the chapter are in no way undergoing the hardships that these men are gladly assuming for you. You have but a light task before you in comparison with their arduous work. Your "bit" consists of doing all in your power to see that the house is opened and successfully operated. This is not all. While it is a part of the duty you owe the men in service you owe them another duty, just as important, but less difficult. You owe them a personal letter. You owe them the information that this little pamphlet can convey to them all in general. The personal matter should go to each man individually, but the general information should be conveyed to them through "Acacia Spirit." They are sacrificing their all. Are you willing to show your appreciation by cooperating with this office? If you are you will manifest your appreciation of their service by sending me a brief account of your activities and a line regarding every member of your chapter. And lastly you must contribute towards the financial support of this pamphlet, and you must see that every Acacian at home does his part.