In This Issue
OUR CHAPTER
Mu Lambda is Alpha's eleventh alumni chapter, chartered October 1, 1923, in Washington D.C. The chapter was established, in part, in response to the desire of graduate brothers, many whom were initiated into Beta Chapter at Howard University, to give aid to the undergraduate brothers and continue the work of Alpha. Chartered by 22 distingushed men of Alpha which included Jewel Nathaniel Allison Murray and Jewel Robert Harold Ogle.
CHAPTER LEGACY
There has been six members who served as the General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and two whom served as the Eastern Region Vice President. Mu Lambda is equally proud of our current brothers making their mark in the Washington D.C. community and beyond. Our chapter has many entrepreneurs, activists, political leaders, philanthropists, academicians, ministers and so much more. Our diverse brotherhood age range is between the ages of 25 and 98. We all work together to maximize the brotherhood of Alpha by following the Objective, Mission and AIMS of our Fraternity.
FIRST OFFICERS
The officers elected at the first meeting were Brother Harold StrattonPresident, Brother John Lowery-Vice President, Brother Victor DalySecretary, Brother Daniel W. EdmondsTreasurer, and Brother Nathaniel Allison Murray (Jewel)-Chaplain. Mu Lambda was thus established and was on its way into history!
www.mulambda.org
1. Torch Cover - January 2026 - A Welcome to the New Year
2. Chapter Cover Image - The MIGHTY
3. In this Issue
4. Executive Board, Committee Chairs, Charter Members, Past Presidents
5. The Presidents’ Message
6. The Vice-Presidents’ Message
7. One Nine Happy Hour
8. Super Bowl Watch Party
9. Mu Lambda Brother’s Birthdays
10. Fatherhood Reflections
11. Eastern Region Convention
12. 119th Founder’s Day Celebration
18. MuVets: Wreaths Across America
20. DC Child and Family Services Toy Drive
22. USP Holiday Social
26. Beta Chapter Brother 2 Brother Youth Conference
28. Mu Lambda Mixtape
29. Next on Your Reading List
30. Black Ice Recap
34. Henry Arther Callis Academy
40. Recipes - Healthy Eating and a Little Drinks
41. Chapter Brother Business Advertisements
50. Message from the Editor
51. Espirt De. Fraternite
Executive Board
President
Mikael E. LaRoche
Vice President
Karl Bruce
Recording Secretary
Marcus Spells
Corresponding Secretary
Swain Riley
Financial Secretary
Lloyd Ross
Treasurer Michael Young
Chaplain
William “Tony” Hawkins
Historian
Ameer Baker
Archivist
James Heck
Intake Coordinator
Mark Jones
Assoc. Editor/Sphinx
Randall Clarke
Dir. Ed. Activities
Sean Perkins
Sergeant-at-Arms
Frank King
Parliamentarian
Pierre Boynton
Director of Technology
Garrett Miller
Editor of the Torch
Christopher Butts
Member at Large
Jason Jefferson
Risk Management Officer
Joseph Gibbs
General Council
Vacant
Immediate Past President
John “Tony” Wilson
Committee Chairs
Brother’s Keeper
Joseph Housey III
Budget and Finance
Ross Lloyd
Communications
Randell Clarke
Technology
Garrett Miller
Constitution
Jason Jefferson
DC National Pan Hellenic Council
James Morgan III
Auditing
Juan Powell
Health & Wellness
Ted Darlington
Membership
Timothy Fitzgerald / Jonathan Brown
Hospitality/Men Who Cook
Swain Riley
Beta Chapter Advisor
James Harmon III
Ritual
Ryle Bell / Garrett Miller
Nominating
Samuel Armstrong
Programs/Chapter of the Year
Christopher Butts
Public Policy
George Walker
Social
Xavier Thompson
Community Service
Jeffery Taylor
Fundraising
Antonio King
Archival and History
James Heck / Ameer Baker
Intake
Mark Jones
Charter Members
Arthur Curtis*
Merrill H. Curtis*
Victor R. Daly*
Eugene L. C. Davidson*
Arnold Donawa*
Walter Garvin*
William L. Hansberry*
Charles H. Houston*
Edward Howard*
Joseph R. Jones*
R. Frank Jones*
J Edward Lowery*
Clarence H. Mills*
Jewel Nathaniel Allison Murray*
Norman L. McGhee* FN4
Jewel Robert Harold Ogle*
Louis H. Russell*
James N. Saunders*
Emory B. Smith*
Harold C. Stratton*
J.H.N. Waring*
Charles H. Wesley* FN3
CHARTERED ON MONDAY OCTOBER 1, 1923
WASHINGTON, D.C.
FN1
6th General President 1915-1916
FN2
General Secretary 1915-1916
7th General President 1916-1917
FN3
14th General President 1931-1940
FN4 General Secretary 1920-1926
FN5
8th Eastern Regional Vice-President 1950-1953
FN6
23rd Eastern Regional Vice-President 2000-2001
Executive Director MLK Memorial
Past Presidents
1. Harold Stratton* 1923 - 1924
2. Howard H. Long* FN2
3. Charles H. Wesley* 1926 - 1928
4. Frank Adams*
5. R. Frank Jones*
6. James B. Browning*
7. Jewel Henry Arthur Callis* FN1
8. U. Simpson Tate*
9. Claude Ferebee*
10. George O. Butler*
11. C.C. House* 1938 - 1940
12. Verdie L. Robinson*
13. Walter M. Booker* FN5
14. Jack Bond*
15. Millard R. Dean*
16. Frank Davis*
17. Clifton Hardy*
18. Herman Johnson*
19. Howard Jenkins*
20. C.C. House* 1952 - 1954
21. William F. Nelson*
22. Aubrey E. Robinson*
23. Joseph Waddy*
24. Edward J. Austin*
25. Elgy Johnson* 1964 - 1965
26. George H. Windsor* 1965 - 1967
27. James T. Speight* 1967 - 1969
28. Harold Sims* 1969 - 1970
29. Eddie L. Madison* 1970 - 1972
30. Wilbur Sewell* 1972 - 1974
31. Charles Walker Thomas* 1974 - 1976
32. Theodore Taylor* 1976 - 1978
33. Elmer Moore* 1978 - 1981
34. William E. Calbert* 1981 - 1983
35. Osmond Brown* 1983 - 1986
36. Vernon Gill 1986 - 1988
37. LeRoy Lowery, III 1988 - 1990
38. Morris Hawkins* 1990 - 1992
39. C.C. Jones 1992 - 1995
40. Vincent Orange 1995 - 1997
41. Melvin White 1997 - 1999
42. LeRoy Lowery, III FN6 1999 - 2001
43. James Haynes 2001 - 2002
44. Rudolph Harris* 2002 - 2004
45. Edwin Norwood 2004 - 2006
46. James McDonald 2006 - 2008
47. Timothy Fitzgerald 2008 - 2010
48. Kwame Ulmer 2010 - 2011
49. LeRoy Lowery, III 2011 - 2013
50. Eddie Neal 2013 - 2015
51. LeRoy Lowery, III 2015 - 2017
52. Joel Grey 2017 - 2018
53. Eddie Neal 2018 - 2020
54. John “Tony” Wilson 2020 - 2023
* Omega Chapter Brothers Footnote (FN)
The President’s Message
JANUARY 2026 MESSAGE
Brothers of Mu Lambda,
Happy New Year to each of you as we step confidently into 2026.
This year has begun against the backdrop of an evolving and often unpredictable series of international events, developments that many of us are watching closely and thoughtfully. These moments remind us of the importance of perspective, preparation, and brotherhood.
I spent my Christmas and New Year on the beautiful island of St. Kitts and Nevis. An unexpected travel delay extended my stay by an additional day, affording me valuable time for reflection. That pause allowed me to consider not only the year behind us, but the collective impact we have continued to make as a chapter.
We all emerged from a tumultuous 2025. One that concluded with meaningful service initiatives and a spirit of Yuletide fellowship that strengthened our bonds as Brothers. Those moments of shared purpose and camaraderie are worth carrying forward. As we look ahead, let us do so intentionally, allowing our concerns to be carried away with the wind while we remain focused on opportunity and progress.
I am deeply grateful for the Brothers who continue to rise to the occasion. Our Board is strong and deliberately positioning the chapter for its next era, while our chairmen persist in driving our activities into positive, productive spaces. Together, this leadership continues to elevate Mu Lambda to new heights.
I look forward to the latter half of the year being marked by valuable fellowship opportunities, including our 94th Eastern Regional Convention in April. Personally, I am also preparing to close my three-year term as Chapter President while completing my Executive M.B.A. at Howard University in May. Milestones that underscore a season of transition and gratitude.
Before we arrive at those moments, however, let us take time to enjoy the crisp air of January, to plan with intention, and to prepare for a remarkable year ahead.
Thank you for your continued commitment, engagement, and Brotherhood.
With Alpha spirit and gratitude,
Brother Mikael E. LaRoche, (10-Mu Lambda-13) President 2024 - 2026
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.- Mu Lambda Chapter
Vice President’s Message
JANUARY 2026 MESSAGE
Greetings, and Happy New Year, Brothers!
I hope the holiday season brought joy, rest, and cherished moments of togetherness to you and your families. As we enter a new year, may our brotherhood experience a renewed sense of unity and strengthened fraternal bonds.
Our community service efforts and social gatherings last year were nothing short of amazing— and this year will be no different. I sincerely thank each of you for answering the call of quality programming and creating meaningful experiences for us to share. Your commitment to excellence does not go unnoticed. Keep up the outstanding work.
Now is the season of reclamation. Let us commit to bringing our Brothers back into the house, and more importantly, keeping those who are present firmly linked to the cable tow.
May your ambition for bigger and better works burn brightly within you and become contagious. The recommitment made on Founders Day should sustain us throughout the year—sparking the flame in others to reconnect and re-engage.
Take advantage of every opportunity to connect, capture, and call.
• Connect with Brothers in impactful and meaningful ways
• Capture the moments so they may be shared and remembered
• Call others to join the work, and reach out to remind every Brother that they are not forgotten
Let us keep one another in our thoughts and prayers as we navigate this journey called life. But above all, let us continue to act with purpose and make a difference in the world. This is our reasonable service.
Light and love to all who are called to the Old Gold and Black; let it be known the world over we are the greatest frat!
Fraternally,
Brother Karl Bruce
Vice President (12-Mu Lambda-13)
2025 - 2026
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Mu Lambda Chapter
MU LAMBDA BROTHER’S BIRTHDAYS
JANUARY 2026
Bro. Jean Pierre - 2nd
Bro. O. Cole Jr. - 6th
Bro. Rhett Lucas - 7th
Bro. George McNeal - 13th
Bro. Robert Gunn - 16th
Bro. Warren Fuselier - 18th
Bro. Lionel Castro Jr. - 19th
Bro. Christopher Butts - 21st
Bro. Chatman Young II - 24th
Bro. M. Christopher Brown II - 26th
Bro. Horace Dawson Jr. - 30th
Bro. Melvin White - 31st
Bro. Noah Harris - 31st
A DAILY PAUSE THAT MATTERS
One of the most meaningful gifts I received this past Christmas wasn’t something flashy or expensive. It was a book I had never heard of before: The Daily Dad: 366 Meditations on Parenting, Love, and Raising Great Kids by Ryan Holiday.
At first glance, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Another parenting book? Another reminder of all the things I should be doing better as a father? But less than a week in, I realized this book was different and exactly what I didn’t know I needed.
Rather than overwhelming me with strategies, checklists, or long chapters, The Daily Dad offers one short reflection per day. Just a page or two. Just a few minutes. And yet, those few minutes have been powerful in helping me center myself as a father, keeping how I parent at the forefront of my mind without adding pressure or guilt.
One reflection speaks to the idea that our children don’t need perfection; they need presence. Another reminds fathers that the small, seemingly insignificant moments (reading the same book again, listening to a story we’ve already heard, sitting quietly beside our child) are often the moments that shape them the most. The book doesn’t scold or lecture. It gently reminds.
What I’ve appreciated most is how the
reflections help reset my mindset before the day truly begins. Parenting can feel overwhelming, especially when balancing work, leadership roles, service, and family responsibilities. The Daily Dad doesn’t ask me to fix everything at once. It simply asks me to be intentional today.
For fathers of younger children, the book reinforces patience, curiosity, and the importance of modeling emotional awareness. For those with older children, it speaks to trust, listening more than talking, and understanding when to guide, and when to step back. Across all stages, the message is consistent: fatherhood is not about control, but connection.
There’s also comfort in knowing that the book doesn’t pretend the journey is easy. It acknowledges frustration, fatigue, and doubt while offering perspective instead of perfection. In that way, it feels more like companionship.
For brothers who may be looking for a simple, steady resource to support their growth as fathers, especially one that respects your time and mental space, The Daily Dad may be worth exploring.
As fathers, we don’t always need more information. Sometimes, we need a moment to pause, reflect, and remember why our presence matters.
~ Bro. Christopher Butts Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Mu Lambda Chapter 4-Xi Iota- Fall 99
A Banquet ROOTED IN HISTORY
In celebration of the 119th anniversary of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the brothers of Mu Lambda gathered in a powerful expression of fellowship, history, and pride. Coming together not only to honor the Fraternity’s founding, but to reconnect with the traditions that shaped its earliest days.
At the heart of this celebration was the extraordinary effort of Mu Lambda Brother Swain Riley and the Hospitality Committee, whose vision and dedication brought history to life by recreating the very first Alpha Phi Alpha initiation banquet menu. Through careful research and thoughtful execution, Brother Riley and the committee transformed the Founder’s Day gathering into an immersive experience, allowing brothers to quite literally taste the legacy of our founders.
The recreated banquet menu paid homage to Alpha’s origins and included:
• Cream Tomato Soup
• Salted Wafers
• Broiled Lamb Chops
• Hash Browned Potatoes
• Finger Rolls
• Peas in a Tub
• Wild Apple Jelly
• Shrimp Salad
• Rolled Bread
• Olives
• Pickles
• Neapolitan Ice Cream
• Lady Fingers
• Chocolate Cake
• Demi Tasse
• Crackers & Cheese
• Alpha Phi Alpha Punch
• Brotherhood Smoke
As brothers shared this historic meal, conversations flowed across generations linking
past to present and reinforcing the enduring bonds that define Alpha Phi Alpha. The evening was not simply about commemoration; it was about continuity. About remembering that our fraternity was built on intention, excellence, and collective responsibility.
Brother Riley and the committee’s attention to detail and commitment to honoring Alpha’s roots elevated the celebration into something truly meaningful, reminding all in attendance that brotherhood is strengthened when tradition is preserved and shared.
As Mu Lambda reflects on 119 years of Alpha Phi Alpha, this gathering stands as a testament to who we are: men bound by history, united in purpose, and committed to carrying the legacy forward with pride.
First of All, Servants of All. First of All, We Shall Transcend.
MuVets: WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA
On Saturday, December 13, Mu Lambda brothers gathered in solemn service and reflection as part of the annual Wreaths Across America community service event. Sponsored by the MuVets Committee, the day stood as a powerful reminder that remembrance is not passive, it is an action.
Brothers began the morning by unloading wreaths alongside fellow volunteers, working shoulder to shoulder in quiet purpose. As the ceremony commenced, the atmosphere shifted from activity
to reverence. Names, sacrifices, and stories filled the space, grounding everyone present in the true meaning of honor and remembrance.
Following the ceremony, Mu Lambda brothers moved across the grounds to lay wreaths on the headstones of fallen soldiers. Each wreath placed was more than a symbol, it was a statement of gratitude, respect, and continued commitment to those who gave their lives in service to this nation. In moments of silence and reflection, brothers paused to acknowledge the weight of legacy, duty, and sacrifice represented by each marker.
The MuVets Committee’s leadership in sponsoring this event reflects Mu Lambda’s enduring respect for veterans and active-duty service members. It also reinforces Alpha Phi Alpha’s long-standing tradition of service to country and community, especially to those who have borne the cost of freedom.
This service event was not about recognition or visibility. It was about presence. About remembering that service extends beyond words and ceremonies into deliberate acts of honor. Through their participation, Mu Lambda brothers demonstrated that remembrance lives on when we show up, lend our hands, and take the time to say, you are not forgotten.
Mu Lambda remains proud to stand in service uplifting community, honoring sacrifice, and living out the values of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., one act of remembrance at a time.
On the afternoon of Saturday, December 13, Mu Lambda brothers once again demonstrated that service is not seasonal, it is a responsibility we live year-round. Brothers volunteered their time and resources to support the DC Child and Family Services Toy Drive, contributing both hands-on support and heartfelt generosity to ensure young people across the District felt seen, valued, and supported during the holiday season.
Mu Lambda brothers arrived ready to serve, bringing donations to assemble care packages specifically designed for college-aged students, an often-overlooked group navigating independence, financial strain, and academic pressure. These care packages represented more than supplies; they were tangible reminders that the community believes in their success and well-being.
In addition to assembling care packages, brothers assisted with unloading and organizing truckloads of toys donated to DC Child and Family Services. Working efficiently and collaboratively, brothers helped sort, move, and prepare toys for distribution to children and families throughout the city. The work required energy, coordination, and teamwork, all qualities deeply rooted in the bonds of Alpha Phi Alpha.
This afternoon of service reflected Mu Lambda’s commitment to uplifting families and investing in the next generation. Whether supporting young children experiencing the joy of receiving a toy or encouraging college students striving toward their future, the chapter’s presence reinforced a simple but powerful truth: service meets people where they are.
Through efforts like this Toy Drive, Mu Lambda continues to honor the fraternity’s mission of developing leaders, promoting brotherhood, and providing service to humanity. The chapter remains proud to stand alongside community partners like DC Child and Family Services, ensuring that compassion, dignity, and hope remain at the center of our work during the holidays and beyond.
~ Bro. Christopher Butts Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Mu Lambda Chapter 4-Xi Iota- Fall 99
On December 13, 2025, the brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Mu Lambda Chapter brought warmth, laughter, and long-awaited fellowship back to the holiday season with an unforgettable Ugly Sweater Party, marking the chapter’s first holiday social in ten years.
Decked out in festive (and fiercely competitive) sweaters, brothers, family, friends, sororities and members of the community gathered to celebrate the spirit of the season in true Mu Lambda fashion: with joy, connection, and a deep sense of brotherhood. The evening was filled with music, conversation, and moments
that reminded everyone present that Alpha Phi Alpha is not only about service and leadership, but also about shared experiences that strengthen bonds and build community.
As laughter echoed and new memories were made, one thing was clear: this night was about more than sweaters or festivities. It was about presence. About togetherness. About reminding ourselves and our community that Mu Lambda remains a place where people belong.
When brothers gather with purpose and joy, tradition doesn’t just return, it evolves.
The 32nd Annual Brother 2 Brother Youth Conference aims to inspire African-American male youth in the DMV area to pursue higher education. Throughout the day, participants will engage in various workshops, hear from impactful speakers, and take part in a tour of HU’s campus.
This year’s theme, “Health Is Wealth: Understanding Male Wellness, Healing Ourselves and Communities,” emphasizes the importance of cultivating healthy lifestyles and sustainable practices. It focuses on both physical and mental health, with particular attention to the needs of African American and other historically disenfranchised communities.
The chapter will be looking for brothers who are Healthcare professionals and experts to help with the Conference in February. If you are interested in assisting please send an email to: JamesEharmon@gmail.com, aphiabeta1907@gmail.com or garymccalljr@gmail.com
Get this Month’s Playlist
Tickets are limited! Scan the QR code to secure your spot and join us as we celebrate 119 years of brotherhood, brilliance, and Black excellence.
We’re kicking off the new year with rhythm, energy, and global vibes. January’s edition of the Mu Lambda Mixtape is a curated playlist of today’s hottest Afrobeats hits. From smooth, melodic anthems to high-energy tracks that set the tone for confidence and creativity, this month’s mixtape is designed to soundtrack your drive, your workouts, and your moments of reflection as we step into a new year. Press play, turn it up, and let the January Mu Lambda Mixtape carry you into the year.
The new year is not only about new goals but renewed perspective. Reflecting on what you finished and what remains can help shape a clearer path into 2026. With that said, the theme for this month’s reading list is “Inspirational Reset.” These titles focus less on instant wins and more on rebuilding mindset, discipline and direction; reminding us that setbacks can clarify purpose rather than derail progress. Together these books emphasize reflection ownership and intentional action as foundations for growth. The hope is this list serves as a strong foundation as you, the reader, shapes what self-progress looks like in the next 12 months.
Author(s): Kevin “KevOnStage” Fredericks
Why it’s a must-read: Failure is a necessary part of growth rather than something to avoid. Through his stories, KevOnStage encourages readers to learn from missteps, stay consistent through setbacks, and keep momentum when progress feels uncertain.
Author(s): Emma Grede (Note: Slated for April 2026 release)
Why it’s a must-read: Emma Grede explores leadership through the lens of self awareness and values. It matters because it challenges readers to build careers that reflect intention rather than burnout or constant reaction
Author(s): Sean “Big Sean” Anderson
Why it’s a must-read: Complete with powerful speeches and writings, King challenges societal norms and advocates for systemic change. This collection of works serves as both a reminder of King’s enduring legacy and his call for a more just world, as well as exposure to a side of his politics that don’t often get discussed in the prevailing discourse of King’s life.
Author(s): Arshay Cooper
Why it’s a must-read: Drawing from his own experiences, Arshay Cooper reflects on discipline, teamwork, and service. The story shows how steadiness and accountability can shape both character and long term direction.
Mu Lambda brothers and guests gathered in style to commemorate the 119th Founders’ Day of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. at the chapter’s signature celebration, Black Ice. The event blended elegance, brotherhood, and pride, honoring more than a century of leadership, service, and achievement.
Dressed in sleek black attire, attendees transformed the evening into a powerful reflection of Alpha Phi Alpha’s enduring legacy and forward momentum. The atmosphere was celebratory yet intentional, creating space for connection, reflection, and appreciation of the fraternity’s founders and the generations of men who have carried the torch.
MU LAMBDA SUPPORTS HENRY ARTHUR CALLIS ACADEMY STUDENTS
Mu Lambda brothers Dr. Ansel Augustine and Jeffery Taylor recently exemplified service in action through their continued commitment to the Henry Arthur Callis Academy.
In a meaningful gesture of encouragement and support, the brothers distributed gift cards to students at Ballou High School, Hart Middle School, and Kramer Middle School. The effort served as both a tangible resource and a powerful reminder to students that their hard
work, perseverance, and potential are seen and valued.
Beyond the gift cards themselves, the presence of Mu Lambda brothers reinforced the Academy’s mission: to uplift young people through mentorship, leadership, and consistent investment in their success. These moments of connection help bridge aspiration with opportunity, showing students that Alpha Phi Alpha men are actively walking alongside them on their academic journeys.
Mu Lambda remains proud of brothers who continue to pour into the next generation, honoring the legacy of Henry Arthur Callis by ensuring today’s scholars feel supported, encouraged, and inspired to achieve excellence.
~ Bro. Christopher Butts
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Mu Lambda Chapter 4-Xi Iota- Fall 99
FEDERAL DONATIONS TO MU LAMBDA
Brothers, it is that time of year when we begin to think in the spirit of giving and giving thanks. In that spirit, the Mu Lambda Foundation participates in two key funding programs through which federal and District of Columbia employees can share the gift of the giving.
The Combined Federal Campaign - CFC (https://www.opm.gov/combined-federal-campaign) is a resource that allows U.S. government employees to make regular payroll deductions in support of the Mu Lambda Foundation and its charitable and community service programs.
The DC One Fund (https://os.dc.gov/page/dc-one-fund-each-one-give-one) provides an opportunity for employees of the District of Columbia to do the same. All donations through these funds are tax deductible and deducted from your paycheck regularly. What could be an easier or better way to support the programs you care about?
As open season begins for 2023, you may plan your weekly, biweekly, or monthly contributions to the Mu Lambda Foundation by contributing to charity number 66770 in the CFC, and number 9556 in the DC One Fund.
Let’s make 2023 the best year yet for supporting youth and abused women in the DC area. Thank you for your continued support.
Bro. Kent Benjamin
The Mu Lambda Foundation meetings are monthly on the third Thursday of the month.
Next meeting
is January 15, 2026
MELT-IN-YOUR-MOUTH POT
ROAST
Ingredients
1-pound medium red potatoes, quartered
1 cup fresh baby carrots
1 boneless beef chuck roast (3 to 4 pounds)
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons dried rosemary, crushed
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/3 cup chopped onion
1-1/2 cups beef broth
Minced fresh thyme, optional
Directions
*Slow cooker required*
Place potatoes and carrots in a 5-qt. slow cooker. Cut roast in half. Combine the mustard, rosemary, garlic salt, thyme and pepper; rub over roast.
Place in slow cooker; top with onion and broth. Cover and cook on low until meat and vegetables are tender, 6-8 hours. If desired, top with minced thyme.
NOJITO!
In honor of dry January. NO booze, no problem is the name of the game with this NO-jito! This mojito-inspired mocktail is light and refreshing and has all of the flavor and none of the alcohol. You can have as many as you want without worrying about the headache the next day. Instead, the rich flavors of pure maple syrup and ginger ale gives this drink the same body and legs as if it has 2 shots of your favorite rum. Mint is our favorite herb and cools off the sweetness from the syrup and soda. This mocktail is so easy to make and definitely a crowd-pleaser! You’ll love having this as a no-booze option for every party you host.
Ingredients
6 mint sprigs, divided, plus more for garnish Ice
6 oz. ginger ale
1 oz. fresh lime juice
1/2 oz. pure maple syrup
Lime wedges, for garnish
DIRECTIONS
Step 1
Gently brush 1 mint sprig against top of a tall glass to release aromatics.
Step 2
Place remaining 5 mint sprigs in bottom of prepared glass. Fill glass with ice. Add ginger ale, lime juice, and syrup. Gently stir until combined, about 5 seconds.
Step 3
Top off with ice. Garnish with mint sprigs and lime wedges.
Thursday, January 8
Saturday, January 10
Wednesday, January 21
Thursday, February 5
Saturday, February 7
Wednesday, February 18
Chapter Meeting
Alpha Wives Meeting
Eboard Meeting
Chapter Meeting
Alpha Wives Meeting
Eboard Meeting
Thursday, February 19 Foundation Meeting
Thursday, March 5
Saturday, March 7
Wednesday, March 18
Thursday, April 2
Saturday, April 4
Wednesday, April 15
Thursday,April 16
Chapter Meeting
Alpha Wives Meeting
Eboard Meeting
Chapter Meeting
Alpha Wives Meeting
Eboard Meeting
Foundation Meeting
Wednesday, April 15 -19 Eastern Region Convention
Thursday, May 7
Saturday, May 9
Wednesday, May 20
Chapter Meeting
Alpha Wives Meeting
Eboard Meeting
Thursday, May 21 Foundation Meeting
Thursday, June 4
Saturday, June 6
Chapter Meeting
Alpha Wives Meeting
Thursday, June 18 Foundation Meeting
Friday, June 19
July 2026
Juneteenth Day
Chapter Vacation
Saturday, August 15
Thursday, September 4
Chapter Retreat
Chapter Meeting
Friday, September 5 ICED or Neat
Saturday, September 6
Alpha Wives Meeting
Wednesday, September 17 Eboard Meeting
Thursday, September 18 Foundation Meeting
Thursday, September 25 The F1RST Breakfast
Wednesday, October 1
102nd Charter Day
Thursday, October 2 Chapter Meeting
Saturday, October 11
Chapter Cookout
Wednesday, October 15 Eboard Meeting
Thursday, October 16 Foundation Meeting
Thursday, November 6
Chapter Meeting Fri-Sat, Novembr 7-8 Annual District Conference
Saturday, November 8
Alpha Wives Meeting
Wednesday, November 19 E-board Meeting
Thursday, November 20 Foundation Meeting
Thursday, November 27 Thanksgiving Day
Thursday, December 4
Thursday,December 4
Founders’ Day
Chapter Meeting
Saturday , December 6 Founder’s Day Breakfast
Saturday , December 6 Karaoke Fundraiser
Wednesday, December 17 E-Board Meeting
Thursday, December 18 Foundation Meeting
Thurssday, December 25 Christmas
BROTHER MALCOLM CARTER
Get the Mu Lambda Chapter App
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Message from the Editor
BRO. CHRISTOPHER BUTTS EDITOR OF THE TORCH TORCH@MULAMBDA.ORG
There are moments when light does more than illuminate, it reveals. It exposes what has always been present but too often overlooked. This month’s edition of The Torch is an invitation to pause at that threshold, where tradition meets intention and reflection gives way to action.
Mu Lambda stands on a foundation carefully constructed by men who understood that legacy is not inherited by chance, it is protected by choice. Every act of service, every moment of mentorship, every quiet decision to show up rather than stand back adds another layer to a story far larger than any one of us. The pages of this magazine are not merely updates; they are signals, evidence that the work continues, deliberately and with purpose.
ALPHA QUOTE TO SERVE BY...
“Now is the accepted time, not tomorrow, not some more convenient season. It is today that our best work can be done and not some future day or future year.”
Brother W.E.B. DuBois,
What is most powerful about brotherhood is not its visibility, but its constancy. It exists in wreaths laid with reverence, in gifts placed into the hands of young scholars, in fathers reflecting on how they lead at home, and in moments of celebration that remind us why we endure. These acts may seem separate, but they are connected threads in a design that reveals itself only when viewed as a whole.
As you read this issue, consider not just what Mu Lambda has done, but what it is quietly preparing to do next. Progress rarely announces itself. It unfolds one choice, one brother, one commitment at a time.
The Torch remains lit. The journey continues. And the responsibility to carry the light forward rests with each of us.
Esprit de Fraternite
Brothers,
It is that time of year again.
The fraternity’s fraternal year runs January 1st to December 31st.
Mu Lambda’s 2025-2026 fraternal year runs September 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. The chapter does not meet during July and August.
It is now time to pay your 2025-2026 dues which will cover you from January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2026.
Ways to make payment:
1. You can pay your dues on mulambda.org by clicking the dues tab at the bottom left of every web page.
2. Bring a check to the chapter meeting.
3. You can pay on the Mu Lambda App
4. Mail it to:
Financial Team
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Mu Lambda Chapter 2405 First Street, NW Washington, DC 20001
Alpha is a life long commitment
An Alpha Phi Alpha man’s attitude should not be “how much can I derive from the Fraternity” but “how much can I do for the Fraternity?” In proportion to what he does for his Chapter and for Alpha Phi Alpha will a member receive lasting benefits from the Fraternity to himself in the way of self-development by duty well done, and the respect of the Brothers well served.
A member’s duties should be:
1. Prompt payment of all financial obligations, the prime requisite for successful fraternal life.
2. The doing of good scholastic work in his chosen vocation, thereby accomplishing the real end of a college course.
3. The reasonable endeavor to participate in general college activities and social service and to excel therein.
4. The proper consideration of all things with appropriate attention to the high moral standard of Alpha Phi Alpha.
