Atlanta Daily World

FRONTIERS' NATIONAL OFFICERS AT OPENING SESSION DISCUSSION - (Left to right): Nimrod Allen, Executive Secretary, Columbus, Ohio; Raymond R. Davis, Western Observer, Columbus, Ohio; M. R. Austell, Executive Secretary of Atlanta Chapter; W. Emerson Brown, National Secretary, Baltimore, Md., Jesse O. Thomas, Southern Deputy Organizer, Atlanta, Ga.; Dr. Melvin Farris, National President, Akron, Ohio; and P. V. Chesson, Regional Director, Norfolk Va. - (Perry's Photo)

Leadership Need Told To Frontiers

The Regional Conference, Southern Area; Frontiers of America, Atlanta chapter closed its one-day conference here Saturday with a banquet featuring Dr. Melvin Farris, national president and Kendall Weisiger, president of the Morehouse College Trustee board.

The banquet was held at the Boys Annex Building in the Butler Street YMCA.

Dr. Farris, of Ohio discussed the organization's program and purpose while touching on some aspects of what the Frontiers can do as a body on a local level.

The national president defined what is termed the "Little Buddy" program of the Frontier, saying it serves as "informal guidance" for deserving youngsters.

One of the main programs of the Frontiers, Dr. Farris said, is the Medical Research Program established at Howard University. The project is set up to deal with research in Vitiligo, a skin condition.

In the summary of his talk, Dr. Farris dealt with some aspects of segregation and discrimination as they affect Negroes in America. He said the problem was "not regional in scope."

He cited the recent Hillsboro, Ohio school issue as a case in point. He called for unified effort on the part of Frontiers and Americans generally in a fight against injustice.

Mr. Weisiger said, this is a time for big ideas. He cited the Rotary Club as one of the "Big Ideas."

Mr. Weisiger also said all civic clubs could be counted along with those doing work like the Rotary Club, the Frontiers and the YMCA.

Mr. Weisiger praised those who dedicated part of their lives to services for others. And he added that "Few of us ever fulfill our God-given capacities."

He cited the Point Four program as an example of missionary work and service. He also said "Times like these call for men who are able to stand up and measure up to their responsibilities."

The importance of leadership "particularly at this crucial time," was stressed here Saturday as the Frontiers of America entered a luncheon session of their regional meeting.

Leadership importance was explained by Frontiers Executive Secretary Nimrod Allen. It was the first southern regional meeting the group has held.

The need for leadership was further explored by national president Melvin E. Farris who explained the qualifications needed to be a member of the Frontiers, which terms itself a national service club. He stressed the need for leadership qualifications, and "training in service."

A true leader was earlier described by Mr. Allen as one with ability, courage, and unselfishness.

The luncheon was held at the Butler Street YMCA, where Warren R. Cochran, executive secretary welcomed the group, and commended local Frontiers leadership.

SPECIAL FEATURE

A special research feature was announced by Henry C. Sparks, Mid-western Frontiers organizer. Mr. Sparks, who is also Director of the Vitiligo Foundation, explained the work being done to cure this illness. Vitiligo, he explained is the losing of color in one's skin. Very little is known about it, but a research foundation is now located at Howard University to seek its causes and cures.

Mr. Sparks said that a goal of $10,000 is being sought for research into the disease. The drive will end at the national convention of the Frontiers which will see them celebrating their 20th anniversary in Columbus, Ohio, July 25, 26, 27, and 28.

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