2012 National Convention - “The Power of Music”

Volume XXVIII Number 2 November/December 2011

The collegiate newsletter of 4 5

2012 marks the next National Convention. Orchestra; in 2012, we hope to be able to add an Due to the overwhelming positive feedback, this orchestra to this stable of ensembles. It’s no sur- year we’re heading back to Orlando, site of the prise that what stood out as the most inspiring, 2009 Convention. This Convention will have educational, and memorable moments to those who something for everyone, including presenters and attended the 2009 Convention were the perform- speakers on a wide array of topics both fraternal ance opportunities. So, at the 2012 Convention and musical. There will also be every brother who wants to participate notable Sinfonians to interact in musical ensembles will have that with, and more music than ever opportunity, even delegates. so that each brother has a chance to participate and enjoy Notable Sinfonians The Power of Music. Many musicians and even non- More Music Than Ever musicians have heard of “The Mozart Effect.” Brother Don Campbell, Sticking with the theme of Gamma Theta (North Texas) ’65, is the this year’s Convention, we’ve man behind The Mozart Effect, and he been intentional about infusing will be presenting on this very topic at this event with both musical Convention. Brother Campbell has events like concerts, and also researched and documented the role events which focus on the spe- and uses of music in therapeutic set- cial power music has to change lives. At the 2009 tings, psychology and imagery applications, educa- National Convention, we featured three all- tional programs and the contemporary and indige- Sinfonian ensembles in concert: Sinfonia Winds, nous spiritual traditions. In his new book, the Men of Song Chorus, and the 1898 Jazz “Healing At the Speed of Sound,” Campbell shows how we can use music – and silence – to become Sinfonia is now on Twitter! Want more efficient, productive, relaxed, and healthy. We’re thrilled to have Brother Campbell presenting to follow the latest news and on this, his latest work on the power of music at the announcements? Turn to page 3 2012 Convention. to find out more! (see, “Convention,” page 3) Operational Updates Chapters: 232 Colonies: 18 From the National Omicron Theta (New Jersey City University) Pi Kappa (Langston University) Florida Eta (Florida Atlantic University) Zeta Pi (Loyola University) Eta Iota (University of Louisiana-Monroe) Collegiate Representative Epsilon Pi (Hartwick College) Iota Tau (Old Dominion University) Rho Omega (Virginia Commonwealth University) Mu Alpha (Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University) Greetings to the Chapter and you will Virginia Epsilon (Virginia State University) Brothers! I trust this receive far more than you give. Beta Psi (University of California-Los Angeles) finds you well in life • Finally, if you would have a broth- Iota Phi (University of New Mexico) Eta Phi (University of Southern Mississippi) and energetic about er, be a brother. Pi Nu (Jackson State University) the Fraternity and Delaware Beta (Delaware State University) your chapters. We I think more than a few of these ring Indiana Gamma (Indiana Uni.-Purdue Uni. Fort Wayne) are nearing the end true to this day. Combs presents several South Carolina Gamma (Voorhees College) Omicron Delta (Alabama A & M University) of the calendar year, ideas here that we could learn greatly from, which brings on a and several more that we still stand by. At Alumni Associations: 19 reclusive feeling a different part of the letter, he also men- through the winter, tions, “Quality, not quantity, should be the Collegiate members in Good Standing 5,463 and the promise of watchword in the chapter as well as Collegiate members on Suspension 488 renewal on the other side. Fraternity expansion.” Collegiate members (total) 5,951 As I was preparing to write this letter I could continue with insights from Percentage of total collegiate suspensions 8.2% to you, I found myself perusing the Combs and others, but I do highly suggest Total amount of outstanding per capita tax owed to Sinfonia $59,292.00 Fraternity Writings in the Resources section you take time on your own to pour of Sinfonia.org, and I came across a through some of the documents readily ‘President’s Message’ from March of 1915 available on the website. Just as the Ritual by Gilbert Combs, Beta (Combs College of is a great tool for reflection in times of Publication Information Music) 1900. Under the heading “A Few struggle, so too are some of these ‘echoes of The Red & Black is published as an informational Thoughts For The New Year,” I found sev- the past’ still inspirational to solving prob- newsletter for the Fraternity’s chapters, colonies, faculty eral ideas which still hold relevance 96 years lems great and small. advisors, governors, committeemen, and national officers. later... Finally, let’s start thinking about the The Red & Black is printed bimonthly, September to • The secret of chapter interest and 2012 National Convention in Orlando! April. Photographs and articles from your chapter are highly encouraged for upcoming issues of The Red & Black. activity is largely one of giving Have you been to a convention or national Please send the articles and photographs to every one something to do. event before? Start telling other brothers [email protected]. • The Ritual should be memorized, you see about how much you enjoyed it. Editor/Layout: Mark A. Wilson, Delta Eta not only be the officers, but by the Never been to a national event before? members who should be rehearsed START ASKING AROUND! You'll Lyrecrest Staff: and allowed to officiate at quickly learn about all of the potential Chief Operating Jeremy M. Evans, Delta Nu ’98 rehearsals. experiences that await you there. It will Officer [email protected] Ext. 108 • In chapter life let us try to culti- without a doubt be an event you don't Director of William C. Lambert, Iota Alpha ’05 vate patience, charity and brother- want to miss. Until next we meet, I remain Programs [email protected] Ext. 102 ly love. Remember and bear with the impulsiveness of youth. An Director of Mark A. Wilson, Delta Eta ’03 Communications [email protected] Ext. 104 impatient word leaves a sting that takes long to heal. Fraternally Yours, Retreat Coordinator Nathan S. Schulte, Iota Alpha ’07 • We are apt to forget that our In Phi, Mu, and Alpha, & Programs Associate [email protected] Ext. 103 enemy is simply our friend who Administrative Kimberly J. Daily does not understand us. Coordinator [email protected] Ext. 100 • In our attitude toward each other Controller Tonya R. McGuire and to the chapter keep in mind Benjamin “Twitchy” Strack, [email protected] Ext. 105 constantly that by a law of Nature Delta Iota (Western Michigan) ’05 Administrative Elizabeth A. Rader we receive just what we give. If we National Collegiate Representative Assisstant [email protected] Ext. 101 give kind, helpful thoughts to oth- Shipping Clerk Jon W. Rader ers they must entertain these [email protected] Ext. 106 thoughts about us. Give your best

Page 2 (from, “Convention,” page 1) The Experience of Convention We’re also thrilled to be joined by Brother Carlisle Floyd, Epsilon Iota (Florida State) ’57. A distinguished composer, Floyd is credited Few who attend national events of any kind come away with any- with creating an American idiom for thing less than a renewed outlook on the Fraternity and their place in opera. He has written nine operas, the it. A National Convention is an opportunity to meet with and inter- best-known of which, Susannah, has seen act with brothers from around the country, in every walk of life, and countless performances in the United the collaborative experience is unlike any other. If you have never States and Europe. Brothers won’t want to attended a Convention, it is not an experience you will regret. When miss the opportunity at this event to meet so many passionate, intelligent, and talented men come together to and interact with this legend in the field of work toward common goals, the power generated to do something American opera. good for the Fraternity is unparalleled. We hope you will consider In addition, we have other presenters attending Convention, either as an individual or with your chapter from a variety of fields, and all will brothers. And together we can feel The Power of Music. enlighten and inspire. Newly initiated honorary member Karl Paulnack, Alpha Registration Alpha ’11, is among those presenters. The 1898 Jazz Orchestra, Attendees to this past summer’s Leadership with Man of Music Jamey Registration is now open, and we’re excited to announce that Aebersold, in 2009 Institute were enthralled by his passionate brothers will be able to register for the Convention at the same 2009 keynote on the key changes in his own life, rate of $299 for alumni members and $249 for collegiate members. and how these changes affected his outlook on relationships, music, This early registration price will be available only for a short time after and life. Brothers will enjoy the opportunity to hear him speak and to registration opens. Thereafter, registration will be $319 for alumni interact with him during the event. members and $269 for collegiate members until late registration These are in addition to the Sinfonians and musicians who will be begins (with a late registration fee) in late spring 2012. So act fast to leading and participating in the many ensembles throughout the get the lowest cost for this event. Convention. All will offer unique opportunities to learn and to make music together as Sinfonians. Convention Website, Facebook & Twitter Feed Launched

In our ongoing efforts to keep all Sinfonians informed about the media, and particularly Twitter,” said Wilson, “are fueled by communi- 2012 National Convention, the national headquarters has launched ty feedback. We want brothers to become involved in the conversation. both a website, a new Convention-only Facebook page, and a twitter Not only will our Convention website feature the latest tweets about feed dedicated to Convention. “It’s our goal,” explained Director of Convention, but we’ll be pulling ideas for Convention that we might Communications, Mark Wilson, Delta Eta (Youngstown State) ’03, “to be able to implement. The goal is to have a two-way conversation. We give every Sinfonian an outlet to stay updated on all that’s happening want to be responding to questions, gathering feedback, all in the within the Fraternity, especially as it pertains to Convention. We’re hopes of offering a richer experience than ever before in 2012.” going to have a lot of information in the coming weeks, and posting all All of the information on these new services is below. We hope of it to the traditional website and Facebook page would overload those that each Sinfonian can feel more connected to the national pulse of pages with information.” the Fraternity through these outlets, and that the result is a more It’s also an opportunity for brothers to become involved. “Social informed and excited brotherhood. Website: http://convention.sinfonia.org Twitter: @phimualpha Hashtag: #sinfonia2012 Facebook: facebook.com/sinfonia2012

Page 3 Lyrecrest Retreats and Sinfonia Homecoming by Nathan Schulte, Iota Alpha (Alma College) problems of the chapter. It’s ok to talk about the issues that are causing ’07, Retreat Coordinator & Programs Associate the chapter to run less effectively and efficiently. Doing so not only shows There are many reasons to visit Lyrecrest: the the passion you have to make the chapter great, but it also shows that history, the scenery, nostalgia, just to name a few. you’re willing to admit the But what if you could find a way to bring all of problems and tackle them as a those things, plus others, together into one week- Sinfonian should: head on. end? That is what a Lyrecrest retreat can be. Retreats are about coming Taking your chapter on a retreat at Lyrecrest will together to bond, solve prob- benefit it in many ways. It is a great opportunity lems, and advance as men for your chapter to get away from the hustle and with a common goal. They’re bustle of school and work and focus on what needs to be done for your about reconciling differences chapter and for Sinfonia. When chapters come to a retreat here at and mending the broken Lyrecrest, they get a personalized agenda based on the needs of their chap- parts. The atmosphere of a ter. There are brotherhood-building activities, team-building exercises, Lyrecrest retreat enables broth- committee activities, Ritual discussions, fraternal readings, service projects ers to speak their minds in order to begin thought-provoking conversa- and even Mills Music Missions. Chapters will also get to tour the tions that better the relationship between brothers and the relationship Sinfonia Museum and Archives, located adjacent to the main headquar- with the Fraternity. ters. This gives brothers a chance to learn about and reconnect with the There is also another great opportunity here at Lyrecrest that allows Fraternity’s history, and provides yet another emgaging activity to look for- brothers to visit who normally wouldn’t have the chance to come on a ward to. retreat: Sinfonia Homecoming. This event is still in its infancy, but it has I know from personal experience that visiting Lyrecrest for a chapter provided some great things for brothers, collegiate and alumnus. Sinfonia retreat can really have a great affect on a chapter. What you experience Homecoming is an event that enables brothers to visit Lyrecrest and go on here is taken back to your chapter, and the fire that you felt while you a “cross-chapter retreat”. This is intended to be similar to a chapter were on retreat rages on in the brothers and the chapter begins to transi- retreat, but it incorporates brothers from many different chapters and pro- tion into an effective machine. The result is beneficial for the chapter, the vides opportunities to share experiences from other chapters and insight entire Fraternity, and the individual brothers who make the trip. The into the life of being an alumni Sinfonian. The relationship between the residual effects of the activities your chapter will participate in will carry alumnus and the collegian that is created can be resourceful and everlast- over to your chapter and its ing. Sinfonia Homecoming can involvement both on campus Brothers begin to understand what it is Sinfonia is about. help make that relationship a real- and in the community. They begin to understand what their role is within the ity. At this year’s Sinfonia One of my personal Homecoming, brothers were pro- favorite activities that chapters brotherhood and how they can better serve Sinfonia. vided the opportunity to discuss participate in is the fraternal their perspective on what Sinfonia reading. This activity tends to change the perception of individual mem- is and what it stands for. They participated in ice breaker activities and bers more than any other activity. Each brother sits in a circle and reads fraternal reading discussions. They learned how to develop the relation- writings from one of the important figures in Fraternity history. It could ship between the collegiate and alumni member, and how they can carry be of Ossian Mills or Percy Burrell, or one of the other luminaries of our on the Sinfonian spirit after the college years. When asked about his early years, or even a more recent writing or article from a publication. alumnus and collegiate experiences, Christopher Yung, Xi Kappa Regardless of what it is, the words have deep significance for our brother- (Vandercook College of Music) ’06, responded, “When I was first initiated, hood. We then discuss how the themes from that reading can be applied my mindset was that Phi Mu Alpha was something that lasted only four to the individual, the chapter, and the Fraternity. The perception of each years. It wasn’t until I started attending events on the Province and individual member tends to change throughout the reading, and their National level that I started to realize Sinfonia only began during my col- thoughts on Sinfonia are intensified and transformed for the better. The legiate years, that Sinfonia is truly a life long journey.” attitude in the room goes from content and slightly tired, to fiery and I encourage you to push your chapter to come on a retreat to the excited! Brothers begin to understand what it is Sinfonia is about. They National Headquarters. See the history and the scenery. Create your own begin to understand what their individual role is within the Brotherhood memories and experiences. Urge your fellow chapter brothers to attend and how they can better serve Sinfonia. national events such as Sinfonia Homecoming and National Convention. Retreats are also a great opportunity for brothers to air their griev- The experiences that such events provide are life-long and are truly one of ances in a safe and constructive environment. It’s ok to talk about the a kind.

Visit www.sinfonia.org/retreats for more information on the retreat program, and to schedule your chapter’s retreat.

Page 4 Upcoming Fireside Conference Events Sinfonia Fireside Conference South: March 30 - April 1, 2012 University of Oklahoma Norman, Oklahoma Come join our national leaders in talks that will educate, illuminate, and inspire.

Check www.sinfonia.org/fireside for the latest info!

American Music Challenge Winners Announced

In Fall of 2010, the Fraternity renewed its American Music Challenge. The three chapters that performed the most American music in the 2010-2011 school year received cash prizes of $800, $600, and $400. The program was created in support of the Fraternity’s strategic goal of heightened musical focus. It is our hope that Sinfonia’s strongest chapters in music will use these funds to build upon their successes and become centers for the promotion of the best in American music on their campuses, in their communities, and in the nation. Join us in congratulating this year’s winners! 1st Place: Eta-Omicron (University of Cincinnati) 2nd Place: Xi (University of Kansas) 3rd Place: Rho Kappa (Rider University)

American Music Challenge Renewed For 2011-2012

Phi Mu Alpha has renewed the American Music Challenge to the Fraternity's collegiate chapters. This contest, which awards cash prizes totaling $1,800, seeks to encourage enthusiastic pursuit of the Fraternity's commitment to advancing music in America. We are pleased to announce that the three chapters of our Fraternity that perform the most American music in the 2011-2012 school year will once again receive cash prizes in the amounts of $800, $600, and $400.

Visit www.sinfonia.org/amc to download the application form and for contest details.

Page 5 Epsilon Nu Jacksonville State University • Jacksonville, Alabama On September 17, 2011, the Epsilon Nu chapter called Invisible Children, which is a campus-wide event held its annual Band Day for the Jacksonville State vs. aimed at raising awareness for the lives of African chil- Georgia State football game. A total of 1,003 high dren who live in regions undergoing a constant con- school and middle school students from Alabama and flict. The chapter continues its efforts to advance Georgia attended the event, during which they were music in America and promote brotherhood amongst given the opportunity to be a Marching Southerner for musical students with a joint holiday concert with the a day. After spending the morning rehearsing with the other music fraternities, planning a Mills Music Marching Southerners’ leadership staff, as well as the Mission to accompany the probationary member band itself, the Band Day participants performed with process, and holding bi-monthly pancake breakfast to the Southerners during the pre-game show. The chap- recruit more able-bodied men for the spring semester. ter raised a large sum of money from Band Day, which brought us over half way to our goal of raising $20,000 with the intention of sending the entire chapter to National Convention this summer in Orlando. $3000 of the Band Day profit was donated to the Jacksonville State University Bands as well as the David L. Walters Department of Music. A donation to the Sinfonia Educational Foundation is in the works. On Sunday, September 25, the chapter had a team participate in Alpha Xi Delta’s Walk for Autism, and on Monday, September 26, the chapter co-hosted an event with Sigma Alpha Iota and Kappa Kappa Psi

Beta Sigma Chapter University of Idaho • Moscow, Idaho This year the Beta Sigma chapter has expanded our recruiting efforts. In the past the chapter recruited almost exclusively through the marching band, however this year special effort was made to recruit in vocal studios, string studios, and the University Honors College. This expanded recruiting effort has made our name more well known on campus, which allows us to bring music to a larger portion of the University of Idaho community.

Delta Iota Chapter Western Michigan University • Kalamazoo, Michigan The chapter helped kick off the semester for the school of music by performing the National Anthem at the first music convocation. We have also completed the first of many planned service projects in which we made PVC baton cases for the conducting classes at WMU. In addition, rush began with several events including a Phi Mu Alpha and Sigma Alpha Iota dance party and an informational cookout with all of the school’s music fraternities.

Rho Upsilon Chapter Temple University • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania During the spring semester, our chapter had the opportunity to sing the National Anthem at our school’s nationally televised Division 1 game on February 20, against St. Joseph’s University. We performed at half court before the game started in front of a crowd of 10,206 fans.

Delta Nu Chapter Bradley University • Peoria, Illinois This spring, our chapter developed a music movie night routine to get our word out on campus. We established a Webmaster position to create and maintain our chapter Facebook page. Our main music-based events were 24 Hours of Music (our biggest philanthropic event), a Mills Music Mission at Snyder Village Assisted Living Center, and our biannual recital. Page 6 Pi Xi Lee University • Cleveland, Tennessee Members of the Pi Xi Chapter from Lee Tuba, a euphonium, a fully stocked percussion University in Cleveland, TN traveled to Cuba recently stick/mallet bag and an assortment of reeds, cork to perform with the Lee University Symphonic Band grease and various items necessary for instrument and the National Band of Cuba. The combined repair. In all, over $5,000 worth of instruments and ensembles rehearsed together then played a joint con- supplies were donated to the National Band of Cuba. cert in the Plaza de Arms in the Old City of Havana. Moises Hernandes, Supervisor of Instrumental The Symphonic Band was also able to perform in two Music Activities in Cuba, coordinated the trip with schools – one of which was the Cuban National Dr. Mark Bailey, conductor of Lee’s Symphonic Band. School for the Arts, which has produced many great Hernandez has invited Bailey to return in 2012 to musicians, most notably jazz trumpeter Arturo rehearse and conduct a concert with the National Sandoval. Band of Cuba. According to Bailey, “Lee students It is believed that the ensemble was the first were extremely moved by the great need of the musi- American band to visit Cuba since the 1950’s. It is cians in Cuba. The trip was a terrific combination of possible that these brothers are some of the first cross-cultural experience, service, ministry, and educa- Sinfonians to visit the nation of Cuba. In addition to tion: qualities that are becoming the hallmark of a Lee performing, the brothers were also able to help facili- University education.” tate the distribution of donated items to members of the National Band of Cuba. The items included a

Mu Eta Chapter University of Central Florida • Orlando, Florida In Spring 2011 the chapter made great progress other student organizations. Additionally, our in campus involvement. Our Valentine’s Day sere- Sinfonian Jazz ensemble performed at our American nades made over $800 as a chapter fundraiser. Music recital and at local public schools. With our Many brothers also participated in Knight-Thon, a probationary member classes continually increasing campus-wide fundraiser that benefits the Children’s in size, we hope to continue expanding influence on Miracle Network. Brothers “Stood Up For the campus and statewide. Kids” for 16 hours to raise over $65,000 along with

Page 7 Gamma Theta Chapter University of North Texas • Denton, Texas

Our chapter focused on several community projects over the semester. Foremost among these was Shack-a-thon, a program in which groups build and live in shacks made of cardboard for 2 nights and 3 days, with donations for each shack going to support Habitat for Humanity. Other activities included Adopt-a-block, and Just Between Friends, a fundraiser helping transport materials for mater- nity consignment sales. We were also proud to welcome five new brothers into the chapter.

Zeta Eta Chapter Marshall University • Huntington, West Virginia

This past spring we held activities such as an American Composers Recital – which had a great turn out – a spring retreat that resulted in a fun and knowledgeable experience for the whole chapter, and a Mills Music Mission. We also constructed new Ritual equipment and developed a new website.

Tell us what you’re up to! Send chapter updates to [email protected] to be featured in upcoming publications.

Deputy Province Governors Appointed in Three Provinces

At the bi-annual meeting of the National Executive Commitee, October 7-9, 2011, three men were appointed Deputy Province Governor of their respective provinces. Each has displayed a commitment to the Fraternity, and will now continue that commitment at the province level. Join us in congratulating them!

Province 18 Chris Michael Davis, Gamma Alpha ’05

Province 22 Jack Cesar Lara, Omicron Pi ’02

Province 24 Andrew Owen, Theta Upsilon ’06 Page 8 Transcending the Stigma: How sterotypes about fraternities can give us purpose and strength.

by Mark Wilson, Delta Eta (Youngstown State) extends to all of Sinfonia. It is one of the most mind-blowing personal ’03, Director of Communications experiences for me to look upon the faces of past and present Sinfonians, many of whom I have never met, and to fully recognize “Always remember that you are only one of that we are bound together by our commitment to the ideals that our many, yet a thousand eyes are upon you and will organization is founded upon. This recognition is one of the mysteries judge the whole Fraternity by your deeds, words of fraternity that separates Phi Mu Alpha from other organizations. It and character.” is what allows our brotherhood to transcend that of normal friendship, From “Ten Commandments For a ‘Frat’ and also allows our endeavors to achieve higher and nobler purposes. Man” – Edwin J. Stringham, Iota 1910 – And that is what Sinfonia represents: not a shallow depravity but a printed in the 1914 Sinfonia Annual. transcendence of our friendships, work, and art. Our work is toward a shared purpose, our friendships are stronger, and our art is more “You’re in a fraternity?!” inspired because it is fueled by those who share our passion. I got used to hearing that question when I was in college. I wasn’t I hope each one of you has the opportunity to feel the unique joy outspoken, obnoxious, or perpetually missing class because I was hung of helping to tear down a stereotype. When asked if you do nothing over. I didn’t fit any of the stereotypes that are normally associated but party, tell them that if it were not for Phi Mu Alpha you would with the Greek community. So I couldn’t actual- ly be a member of a “frat house.” But yes, I’d inform them, I was a member and an officer of a Sinfonia is not the exception to the rule, we are the rule. music fraternity. Many were then quick to try to rationalize And the rule is that fraternal organizations teach socia- this with their preconceptions. I must be the exception, they’d say. Maybe even my entire bility, philanthropy, and brotherhood. chapter was an exception. But that’s all we were: an exception to a rule. And the “rule” is a particularly derogatory one. know less people, be less involved musically and philanthropically, and The unfortunate truth of this stereotype is that the perception of would not have the same experiences that you do now. When accused fraternities being full of irresponsible, obnoxious men may never fully of “paying for your friends” – another nasty stereotype – tell them that change on campuses and in popular culture. This is why we must the money goes to fund programs and publications that raise musical always remember that each one of us is more than just a representative awareness, and supports retreats and events that build better leaders, of Sinfonia; we are Sinfonia in a very literal sense. Each action you stronger connections, and that give us the opportunity to bring more make that has an effect on another person music to the world. Tell them about the Sinfonia Educational will also affect their perception of any Foundation, which has helped brothers in need attend those events, organization you are in. This is particularly and has ensured that brothers who may not have been able to afford true when we wear our letters. Wear them college can still pursue their passion. This is what our brotherhood is with pride, knowing what they stand for in comprised of, and we should be proud of that fact. our organization and in ourselves. But The ultimate irony of transcending such stereotypes is that we never forget that the letters also place a must always be aware of the stigma, but also be indifferent to it. We metaphoric target on your back, an excuse must hold ourselves to the highest standards while simultaneously for others to reinforce their own preconcep- remaining apathetic toward cultural opinion. Because ultimately, our tions if we aren’t behaving as brothers and strength comes not from what others think of us, but what we know to as upright men. In some extreme cases, be true of ourselves. So more than anything, I hope you reflect on the entire chapters have even been expelled for man that you are, the men you are surrounded by, and the good that behavior that is not aligned with our rules and, more importantly, our both you and the entire organization accomplishes, and be glad for it ideals. This is not intended as a warning, but rather a reassurance that all. To quote Edwin J. Stringham once again, in words that are as true Sinfonia represents only that which is best in fraternal life, a fact that today as they were in 1914, “Honesty, integrity, courtesy, and fraternity should encourage brothers to live up to that standard. should be synonymous terms.” The idea of a shared fraternal experience binding us together goes even further than our collegiate roots, or how others perceive us. It

Page 9 Job Opening At Lyrecrest! Searching for Next Year’s Retreat Coordinator and Programs Associate

Have you ever considered spending a year working for the gained through this position serves as a great starting point for any Fraternity? Are you looking for an unique job after college? Would young professional. you enjoy leading and facilitating groups of brothers from across the Past Retreat Coordinator Sean Leno, Phi Omega (Dayton) ’00, nation? Do you want a flexible and fun work experience that would describes his experience this way: apply to almost any future endeavor? This may be the opportunity you are looking for! My time as Retreat Coordinator at Lyrecrest provided me with a valuable new skill set and a truly one of a kind work experience. The Job Title: opportunities given to me for both personal and professional growth Retreat Coordinator and Programs Associate were unparalleled in quality and value. You, just as I did, will experience the Fraternity on a level never before imagined, gaining the Responsibilities include: “insider’s” view of a large, successful organization as well as meeting The Retreat Coordinator and Programs Associate shall be responsi- and interacting with the Brothers that keep this organization moving. ble for all chapter and province retreats and other weekend Fraternity gatherings at Lyrecrest. He will maintain the Fraternity’s colony pro- Past Retreat Coordinator and Programs Associate Matthew gram and perform membership records duties. He will serve as the pri- Downing, Beta Lambda (Muskingum) ’04 had this to say about his time mary contact at the national headquarters for collegiate members. at Lyrecrest:

Eligibility: Rarely in life do you get the chance to know you’ve positively Must be a Sinfonian in good standing possessing a Bachelor’s affected the lives of others. As the Retreat Coordinator and Programs degree in any field. Experience with Mi crosoft Office is a must. Associate, I was challenged and privileged to meet and work with over Must have a vehicle and be able to lift at least 50 pounds. 500 Sinfonians. Though my time of service to the National Fraternity was relatively short, I know I accomplished some of my lifetime career Benefits include: goals. I was extremely lucky to work for an organization I feel pas- Competitive salary, free housing and utilities, health/dental sionate about helping to elevate others and work towards benefiting insurance, great profesional work experience and the opportunity to society through music. The memories and experiences I have gained meet and interact with brothers from all over the country. from my work at Phi Mu Alpha are truly irreplaceable. To apply Hours: , please send resumé, cover letter, contact information for three references, and a detailed history of Fraternity experience to: Full-time-plus, with adjusted work week schedule centering around weekend retreats and events at Lyrecrest. Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity National Headquarters Application deadline: Attn: Retreat Coordinator & Programs Associate Search March 1, 2012 10600 Old State Road Evansville, IN 47711-1399 Term of employment: August 1, 2012 — July 31, 2013 (position turns over annually)

This position is ideal for a graduating brother with an outgoing Don’t Delay! Application Deadline is March 1! personality who is looking to gain valuable work experience and is Apply today! interested in working at the national headquarters. The experience

Page 10 Sinfonia Announces T-Shirt Design Contest Calling All Designers The Sinfonia Store is looking to expand, and we need your help! Next summer at our 2012 National Convention in Orlando, Florida, the Sinfonia Store will unveil four new probationary member t-shirts and one Fraternity t-shirt. We’re asking you to submit your designs for these t- shirts, for the chance to win recognition and prizes. The designers of the four probationary member t-shirts will each receive a $50 gift card to the Sinfonia Store, and the winning designer for the Fraternity t-shirt will be going to the 2012 National Convention with no registration cost!

Designs can be serious, funny, artistic, mini- malistic, or anything in between. They can focus on the individual or the organization, the entirety of Sinfonia or one small aspect of it. The sky is the limit, and we want to see what creative designs Sinfonians can imagine!

We ask that you limit design submissions to three per person. Send all submissions to [email protected]. Deadline for submissions is February 28, 2012.

Page 11 SINFONIA STORE Holiday Sale! Clothing Regular Sale Price Black Hoodie $35-$45 $25.99-$35.99 Retro Hoodie $35-$45 $25.99-$35.99 Sweatpants $21-$26 $16-$21 Flannel Pants $25 $20 Wife T-shirt $17.50-18.50 $12.50-13.50 Kids T-shirt $10.75 $8 Red or Navy Polo $33.75-38 $28.75-33 Glassware Regular Sale Price Ornament $15 $11 Wine Glass $7.75 $5 Wine Flute $7.75 $5 12 oz. Mug $6.75 $5 Ale Glass $7.75 $6 Gift Items Regular Sale Price Zippo $32.50 $25 Watch $49.99 $35.99

Visit www.sinfoniastore.org for these great deals and more!