Sigma Chi - University of California-Berkeley

THE CAL SIG ALPHA BETA CHAPTER OF SIGMA CHI FRATERNITY Spring 2016 G reetings from the Alpha Beta Chapter of Sigma Chi. The spring semester is halfway through and the men of Sigma Chi have a lot to show for it. A successful recruitment resulted in 12 outstanding new recruits. Under the guidance of Magister Nima Shajarian '17, they are learning about the history and traditions of Sigma Chi. Once they become active members they will be a credit to the chapter and will greatly add to the spirit of the house. Chapter Advisor Del Tacconi, Utah State '62 has, for many years, invested his time and resources in an alumni big brother program. In this program, an alumnus is assigned to a specific pledge and, over a series of meetings, shares his own experiences from being a Sigma Chi and how it has impacted his life. The alumnus will also answer any questions or concerns the pledge may have. It is a worthwhile program and I think it brings alumni a little more in touch with the challenges students face today with balancing schoolwork, activities, athletics, and being a member of a fraternity. At my initial meeting, I heard something from the pledge I was working with that I found quite rewarding. This young man finds himself a long way from home and missing the advice of his mother, father, and siblings. He recently faced some difficult decisions and was concerned. Although he was still a pledge, he began to receive calls of encouragement from active Alpha Beta members. These positive messages helped him in his decision and at the time of my meeting with him he stated, "My decision to join Sigma Chi was the best decision I have ever made." What a great testimonial for our fraternity! UNDERGRADUATES BUILD ON SIGMA CHI LEGACY Spring semester is when many of the philanthropic activities occur at Sigma Chi. Derby Days is undoubtedly a premier fundraising activity conducted by Sigma Chis nationwide and Alpha Beta Chapter is no exception. Alpha Beta hosted a concert on the Berkeley campus, which proved to be a significant fundraising effort. Proceeds from the concert went to the Huntsman Cancer Institute and Camp Kesem, which is a camp that benefits children who have had parents affected by cancer. Our hats are off to the men of Alpha Beta for their efforts. The Sweetheart of Sigma Chi events culminated in a trip to Las Vegas by the brothers. While we weren't privy to details of this trip due to Las Vegas rules, we are assured it was a great experience for all who attended. Intramural sports are well underway, and the Alpha Beta basketball and soccer teams are in contention to take first place respectively in the university-wide competitions. Congratulations to the athletes of Sigma Chi! ALPHA BETA BRICKS AND MORTAR TELL STORIES OF THE PAST Chapter house renovation projects for the summer are being planned. Prior to the holiday break, we were able to complete the roofing replacements to the third floor and very top roof surfaces. The dining room tables and benches were completely restored to brand new condition. One of the interesting things about working at the fraternity house is that we are always encountering nicknames for people and places within the house. When we schedule a room for renovation, it turns out that we are not going to restore room 1, 2, or 3, but rather "The Bank," "The Rain Forest," or "Seventh Heaven." Likewise, the brothers who live in those rooms are not called Charles, Ed, or Frank, but rather "Stick Boy," "Inhuman," or "Mr. Toad." Where the names come from I am not sure, but it certainly adds to the flavor of the house and some comedic value. Many generations of the past have similar customs with names. I can only be glad I was not named "Flounder!" I wish you all a great spring and summer, and hope we'll run into each other at Evans Diamond watching a Cal baseball game in the near future! In Hoc, Jeff Bordalampe '77 Housing Corporation President (510) 755-0744 jeff@tcinorth.com Alumni Leadership Boosts Chapter Morale, Breathes Life into Alpha Beta BUILDING ON A PROUD PAST Bill Powers '67 Thankful for a Lifetime of Brotherhood and Support W hen Bill Powers '67 came to the University of California, Berkeley, he wanted to connect with individuals who shared common goals and interests. For Bill, Sigma Chi provided this very opportunity. "I instantly connected with many of the members in Alpha Beta my junior year, and I knew this was where I belonged," he says. "These men challenged me to succeed in all aspects of life, hold myself accountable for my actions, and learn how to give and take with others. Bill wasted no time getting involved in Alpha Beta as pro consul of the chapter, which provided him with leadership experience that he carried with him after Continued page 2

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