The New Electronic Cross & Crescent Magazine

[EM1843]

Great article Mike.

[JonoBN41]

I can't wait until it's referred to as the OLD electronic Cross & Crescent and we get back to a printed format.

There will probably be the same tired "features" of used-to-be Lambda Chi fat cats who line their pockets while doing little or nothing for the fraternity, but you can't have everything. Writing about true brothers who actually help the fraternity is apparently beyond the realm of possibility and the scope of the publication.

If it weren't for Mike's articles and Chapter News, I wouldn't read it at all.

Finally, what Bozo decided it would be a good idea to write a political piece a week before elections? And about a Republican, no less, as if they're not running scared enough as it is.

At least the tag line is accurate: "Lambda Chi and politics have similarities."

That's true. As evidenced by the Comments, both have their fair share of idiots.

(I'm writing here instead of there just in case someone wants to get into a pissing contest. I don't want to see anything like that in my magazine. That's not what it's for, but unfortunately it's what it's become.)

[justaflaneur]

Jono,

I’ve got to push back (in a brotherly way) on the comment about the “used-to-be Lambda Chi fat cats who line their pockets while doing little or nothing for the fraternity,” and your desire for C&C articles about “true brothers who actually help the fraternity.” In my role (among others) as national chair of the Call to Lead Campaign, I have been all over the country meeting with these well-heeled brothers and seeking to get into their pockets. Not once have I been refused a meeting; not once have I been denied a donation. Of the hundreds who have donated to our Campaign, we have nearly ten brothers who have donated in excess of six figures each, some significantly in excess. The result is that we will be in a position well in advance of the 2007 Leadership Seminar to announce that we have achieved our goal of raising $6.5 million. These funds will be used to fund educational and leadership development programs, to train our alumni advisors, and to benefit individual chapters.

Many of our brothers have “moved on” after graduation as the fraternity has taken a back seat to family, career, and other interests. But my travels have taught me that the flame of our Fraternity still burns, even in those who have had little or no actual involvement over the years. We all have different ways of helping, some with time, some with talent, some with treasure, and some with a combination of all three. Let’s not fail to acknowledge the significant contribution of those who write the big checks. Take my word for it - most of them wish they had the time to do more.

In ZAX,
Lynn Chipperfield

[Tom Earp]

Brother Lynn, this is an over view to be sure. Thank You for your insight.

But while you have information unknown to us as Brothers, there are still many questions unanswered.

I think that is the question that stands out in our minds as Brothers.

What is LXA doing with expantion? What is LXA doing with R M Chapters and why are they closed.

We as Alums are very big contributors to the Foundation. Maybe you can pass along Our feelings while at times made in heat, We still wonder. Do not We desearve the posting of such subjects on C & C?

Maybe, just maybe We as Alums can be of help.

I have no doubt that We are If not the finest Fraternity, We are one of the best!

You can say You heard it here it first!

Stay tuned for further developments!

[justaflaneur]

Tom,

You can be assured that I pass on to other members of the GHZ the concerns expressed on GreekChat. I have found it is an excellent way to avoid the "inside the beltway" mentality that sometimes comes with being too wrapped up in finances and problem chapters, and not having enough exposure to the great things that are taking place at our chapters every day and the great brothers who make them happen. I also know that complaints, when they are posted, arise only from a deep affection for the Fraternity and a sincere to desire to make it better in every way.

We're better off today when we were four years ago, and we'll be better still when we celebrate the Centennial in 2009. Sure we still have issues to be addressed, but I have never had more "hope for the future."

Keep the faith. And keep up all the great work you're doing for Lambda-Chi Zeta and for our Fraternity.

In ZAX,
Lynn

[JonoBN41]

Lynn,

Of all the Lambda Chis I've known, there is no one I respect and admire more than you for all you've done - and continue to do - for the fraternity. You are at once down-to-earth and professional, a fine line that is not easy to walk.

My comments, as brash as they were, were certainly not directed toward those alumni who contribute when asked, because it is obvious that their generosity is neither dependent upon an article written about them, nor in anticipation of one. Rather, it was in reference to those who are lauded despite the fact that they won't so much as agree to an interview, which begs the question why these stories are being written at all. Perhaps it is in the hopes that they will "come around", but there may be better ways of accomplishing the same objective, while leaving the magazine to its stated purpose.

The Cross & Crescent, at least formerly, was subtitled "an educational journal" but in its pared down online version has become more of a "lifestlyes of the rich and famous". As one brother commented, as much could be found at IMDB, and I would add US News and World Report.

It's not that I even object to such bios as much as the sheer lack of anything else that might possibly re-ignite the interest of alumni in a meaningful way. For example, each year brothers are awarded the Order of Merit. Their names are published, but no stories are written (other than videos shown at the General Assembly) delineating the conributions these brothers have made to the fraternity. Would it not be educational to share their experiences and dedication, perhaps inspiring others to increase their involvement in one way or another?

Would a more well-rounded view of the Fraternity not make your job just a little easier? People are more likely to give if they can see exactly where their money is going and whom it is helping. A few years ago a feature was written from the viewpoints of three undergraduates about a chapter that succeeded in pulling itself up from the ashes. I found that story candid, compelling, educational, cautionary, and inspiring. It was "about something".

Brothers should know that new alumni associations are being formed in half a dozen cities across the country. Just getting together for a few informal events can bring brothers who've been out of the loop back into the loop, which might benefit local chapters and the General Fraternity in the longer term. How about a feature story on both city and chapter alumni associations?

As you mentioned, brothers help in different ways, some with time, talent, and treasure. Some of these brothers could be highlighted in the magazine, not because they crave recognition, but because what they do within the fraternity is interesting and relevant. These are just a few ideas. There are many more.

In my opinion the Cross & Crescent currently lacks interest and imagination, and as our flagship publication, is a resource not being utilized to its full potential. As an editor (actually just a proof reader), I've seen unique stories reduced to a few sentences or shelved altogether. It's really a shame what our readers have missed.

A more balanced mix of reporting would benefit everyone - undergraduates, alumni, and the General Fraternity alike. Writing about someone is fine (in fact you'd make a fine subject yourself), but let's see if staff can also write about something.

Preferably something interesting that gives a broader view of who we are, with all our diversity of endeavor, with one common theme - Lambda Chi Alpha.

Yours in ZAX,
Jono

[justaflaneur]

Jono,

Thanks for your kind words and for your insightful post. I now understand your frustration, and I can say there are times when I agree. When the decision was made to go to a monthly online version of the C&C, Jason Pearce knew we would face a serious challenge in terms of content. Keeping a publication fresh and interesting month after month is difficult, particularly with everything else Jason and his team have on their plates every day. Nevertheless, with a lot of hard work and with the help of great brothers like Mike Raymond, I think they've done a bang-up job so far.

I am particularly intrigued by your idea of a profile piece on the new members of the Order of Merit. There is much about these brothers that is inspiring, and they represent role models for all of us, alumni and undergraduate. John Gezelius, for example, inspires all of us with his continuing desire to give back, both on a local and an international level. Although I suspect Jason has already seen it (he lurks around GC just as I do!), I will paste your post into an email and send it to Jason. You have offered up some great ideas.

All the best in ZAX,
Lynn