Sigma Beta members honored at banquet

When Phi Beta Sigma alumni and members of The Crescent Foundation gathered recently, they honored students who they say will be among the next generation of leaders.

The fifth annual scholarship banquet on June 5 recognized the 21 members of the Sigma Beta Club, which is for boys ages 13 to 18.

"We select students who have potential and help them cultivate leadership skills and goals," said club director James Jackson.

Club members are mentored by Phi Beta Sigma alumni and have opportunities to visit colleges. They assist alumni members with community service projects.

The international boys club, sponsored by the historically African-American fraternity, began in 1950. The Tampa club was reactivated in 2005 after years of being dormant. The Crescent Foundation serves as the fundraising arm of the fraternity chapter to raise money to support the club and its activities.

The banquet's purpose is "to honor our graduating seniors and reward the members for their hard work throughout the year," Jackson said.

The event also provides an opportunity for club members to wear dress clothes and interact with adults and peers in a social setting, he said.

"You have to learn it somewhere," he said.

Former Tampa Bay Buccaneer Derrick Brooks was the keynote speaker with WFLA, News Channel 8, anchor Rod Carter as the master of ceremonies.

James Bealts, a 2010 graduate of the University of Central Florida, also spoke. He was a Sigma Beta Club member when it was reactivated in 2005.

"I probably wouldn't be where I am at in my life now without the club," Bealts said before the program.

Among the youth recognized were Aneurin Sherman, a 2010 graduate of Spoto High, with the Charles H. Odom Scholarship, and Tim Spearman as the Outstanding Club Member of the Year.

Buccaneer Stylez G. White served as the honorary banquet chairman and met with club members before the event.

He talked about school, athletics and conduct off the field. He also told them that they would be his guests to a Buccaneer home game.

"These kids are our future," White said. "I know it is a cliche, but it is the truth."

Tommie Tolbert is president of the 45-member chapter, which was named the fraternity's 2009 Chapter of the Year.

"It's good for them to receive the proper recognition for what they are doing," Tolbert said. "A lot of our youth are ending up in jail or graves."