CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT BROTHERS COME UP WITH A CREATIVE WAY TO LEARN FROM EACH OTHER
By Clint Bronder, Christopher Newport '12

The Christopher Newport Chapter is expanding its efforts to build balanced men through a new program that involves the efforts of all its members. Each month it holds a SPEBQ, a BBQ done the SigEp way, based on a cultural topic that contributes to the development of its brothers. Each barbecue is kicked off with food and games before transitioning into an engaging presentation by brothers, which expounds on the meaning and relevance of the day’s topic. Subjects have included art and culture, multiculturalism, and Greek philosophy.

“It’s a great way to bring the chapter together and capitalize on our brothers’ vast individual abilities for the betterment of the Fraternity as a whole,” said Hunter Bronder,’14.

New brothers run each barbecue, which keeps the experience exciting and new, and each barbecue is different, based on the theme. For one themed around health and wellness, typical barbecue foods and snacks were replaced with healthy alternatives such as lean meats instead of fatty burgers, mixed fruits and vegetables instead of chips and fries, and juices instead of soda. They also accepted donations from brothers during the meal in their effort to raise money for YouthAIDS. Brothers Joey Voboril, ‘13, and Andrew Baxter, ‘11, then presented to the chapter on topics related to healthy eating, proper exercise habits, and AIDS awareness.

Any brother who is knowledgeable in a given area can collaborate and share his expertise with the chapter, helping other brothers gain know-how and insight to better themselves.

Through SPEBQs, brothers have added emphasis to SigEp’s cardinal principles and the ideals of Sound Mind and Sound Body in daily chapter life. They have provided a chance for brothers to spend time and catch up with each other outside of a business setting, while employing what SigEp is all about. "The barbecues are a great way to bond with brothers, and I love expanding on the concepts of Sound Mind and Sound Body," said Austin McKim,’13.

Previously, SPEBQs have been open only to brothers. Now the chapter plans to utilize the concept as a recruitment event and invite potential new members as another way to introduce them to the values and ideals of SigEp. This way, the chapter can strengthen the character of its members while simultaneously expanding manpower and presence within its community.

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